"Director, I Want This Role!"
Luke stumbled upon surprising news:
"Former Star Falls from Grace, Now an Extra: Can He Return to the Top?"
Reading further, he learned:
- Tony, 40, from América.
- Child star, Oscar-nominated at 20, but ruined by a life of excess, criticized by the public, and sued by sponsors.
- Vanished for a decade, recently spotted in extra roles, sparking nostalgia with little impact.
Luke grinned. Tony was eerily similar to Tony Stark: same vibe, same playboy-turned-redeemed arc. After checking, he learned Tony was married, a father, and took any role to support his family, having left his wild past behind.
"He's perfect."
Luke took a chance, sending a private message via FaceSphere:
"Hello, Tony. I'm Luke Bailey, a film student. I'm preparing Iron Man and would like to offer you the lead role. Interested?"
To his surprise, Tony replied quickly:
"Are you serious? The lead role?"
Fresh off a shoot where he played a corpse, Tony was skeptical. At 40, in a world dominated by young idols, who would offer him such a part?
"Absolutely. This role was made for you: a brilliant man with a troubled past who reinvents himself. I believe in your talent."
Tony, heart pounding, asked:
"Can I see the script?"
Luke sent the file titled Iron Man.
That night, Tony read every line with fervor. The story of Tony Stark, heir to a weapons empire, captured by terrorists, forging an armor to escape and redeem himself, moved him deeply. When Stark declares "I am Iron Man" to the press at the end, Tony felt tears stream down his face.
He replied, trembling:
"Give me a chance. I want this role!"
Luke smiled, satisfied. He knew Tony wouldn't refuse.