First day shooting sequences

In the early morning light of Paris, the cast and crew gathered in their rented Parisian studio, gearing up for the day's shoot for the film project "Midnight in Paris."

After settling in from their flight the day before, Lucas and his colleagues ventured out into the heart of Paris yesterday. They explored several iconic locations, a move designed to deepen their understanding of their characters and enhance their performances in the film.

The ambiance of Paris, with its historic buildings and timeless charm, proved particularly beneficial for the actors involved in scenes set in the 1920s. The city's atmosphere and architecture effortlessly transported them back in time, aiding them in fully embodying their roles from that bygone era.

Inside the Parisian studio, the cast members delved deeply into their roles through rehearsal, honing their performances for the upcoming scenes. It was during these moments of intense preparation that they were gently nudged by the assistant director, a key figure in keeping the day's schedule on track, who reminded them, "Everyone, please, let's stay focused. Those involved in the early scenes, make sure you're fully prepared. We're about to start shooting."

Prompted by the reminder, all actors, from newcomers like Lucas to seasoned professionals such as Marion, Adrien, and Rachel, began their final preparations. Unlike his colleagues, Lucas appeared noticeably more relaxed. While others, regardless of their experience, repetitively went over their lines with visible anxiety, Lucas simply took a deep breath, his demeanor calm and collected.

Amidst the bustling atmosphere, the crew was busy dressing the actors and applying their makeup, each member playing their part in the seamless orchestration of the shoot. Amid this hive of activity, Lucas stood out, quietly observing the scene unfolding around him, a silent witness to the prelude of the day's filming.

The shooting commenced in the hotel lobby, for which the team had secured a filming permit. The scene featured Kurt Fuller and Mimi Kennedy as John and Helen, the parents of Inez, played by Rachel McAdams, with Lucas stepping into the shoes of Gil. All were poised and ready for the cameras.

Meanwhile, director Woody, along with other essential crew members, meticulously prepared the set, adjusting props, lighting, and positioning to ensure that everything was picture-perfect for the first take.

"1, 2, 3, Action!" echoed Woody's commanding voice, cutting through the charged silence, and with that cue, the world of the film unfurled into motion.

Lucas, taking on the essence of Gil, alongside Rachel, who stepped seamlessly into the role of Inez, entered the majestic lobby. Awaiting them were the expectant faces of Inez's parents, brought to life by Kurt's John and Mimi's Helen.

Breaking the stillness, John, with a hint of playful sarcasm, remarked, "There are our sight-seers," setting the tone with his gently mocking welcome.

Inez, her voice tinged with a mix of fatigue and wonder, responded, "If I never see another charming boulevard or bistro—" leaving her sentiment hanging, a perfect blend of weariness and enchantment.

Gil, through Lucas's compelling performance, filled the room with an infectious sense of awe, "What a town," he whispered, eyes alight with a mix of reverence and desire.

Helen, a realistic person, interjected succinctly, "To visit," grounding their fleeting dream with a touch of practicality.

Gil continued, undeterred, his voice rich with longing, "I could easily see myself as a Parisian—strolling the Left Bank—a baguette under my arm—finishing my novel—at a table at the Cafe Flore. A Moveable Feast—Hemingway called it." For a moment, Lucas wasn't just acting; he was living every word, his longing so tangible it seemed to transport him to a different era.

Helen, bringing them back to reality, retorted, "In this traffic, nothing moves," her words a stark reminder of the present.

Gil, or rather Lucas, reflected thoughtfully, "Well, yes, it was different then," his words acknowledging the relentless march of time upon the city they adored.

John, redirected their conversation, "Can we continue this talk of moveable feasts at Grand Vefour because I'm starved."

Gil chuckles as he lightly noted, "Americans eat dinner so early," casting a playful light on their cultural differences.

"And I'm proud of it," retorted John, closing the exchange on a note of lighthearted national pride.

Throughout the scene, Lucas stood out with a portrayal that was nothing short of mesmerizing. He didn't just act; he became Gil, bringing a depth of emotion and nuance that was a delight to witness.

From the sidelines, Woody watched, a growing sense of pleasure evident as Lucas continued to bring Gil to life with every word and gesture. Despite this, the need for a second take arose, not due to Lucas's performance, but rather small errors from others like Kurt and Rachel. Yet, in those moments, Lucas's talent shone all the brighter, anchoring the scene with his profound embodiment of Gil.

After two takes, the team moved on to the next location: the breathtaking Monet's garden, setting the stage for the first sequence of the film featuring Gil and Inez.

Amid the chaos of setting up, everyone hustled to rearrange the sequence of shots for maximum efficiency, ensuring the day's filming progressed smoothly.

As the camera rolled, Gil and Inez, portrayed by Lucas and Rachel, began their exchange, the garden around them a riot of color and light, almost another character in their unfolding drama.

Lucas, as Gil, delivered his lines with a heartfelt sincerity that made the scene come alive, "Boy, I'd drop the house in Beverly Hills, the pool, everything - in a heartbeat. Look - this is where Monet lived and painted - we're thirty minutes from town. Imagine the two of us settling here. If my book turns out, we could do it - you could just as easily make jewelry here."

Rachel's Inez responded, her voice laced with a mix of skepticism and wistfulness, "You're in love with a fantasy."

But Gil, with Lucas's eyes brimming with unfeigned emotion, tenderly countered, "I'm in love with you." And with those words, he leaned in, and their lips met in a kiss that seemed to capture the essence of their complex relationship.