EXT. RUNDSTEDT’S ESTATE – DAY
Field Marshal Gerd von Rundstedt, a distinguished, silver-haired man in his late sixties, stands in the garden of his estate, lost in thought. He gazes at the horizon, his eyes reflecting the deep turmoil inside him.
INT. RUNDSTEDT’S STUDY – DAY – FLASHBACK
Rundstedt, born into a Prussian family with a long military tradition, has always held a deep sense of honor, pride, duty, and loyalty to his country. As the most senior and highly respected officer in the German Army, he has dedicated his life to serving his nation.
However, over the years, he has grown disillusioned with Hitler’s leadership and strategic decisions, leading to disaster after disaster.
INT. RUNDSTEDT’S COMMAND POST – DAY – FLASHBACK
The previous year, as Supreme Commander West, Rundstedt faced the Allied invasion in Normandy. His decisions on the field were constantly interfered with, delayed, and overturned by Hitler.
RUNDSTEDT (angry, on the phone) We need to move the Panzer divisions immediately!
HITLER (V.O.) (screaming) No! Hold them back! I have a better plan!
Rundstedt slams down the phone, visibly frustrated.
INT. RUNDSTEDT’S COMMAND POST – DAY – FLASHBACK
During the same period, a phone call from Erich von Manstein, a respected colleague and former subordinate, takes him by surprise. Manstein, who has been dismissed by Hitler and is now living in retirement, wants to know about the situation at the front. Rundstedt fills him in, his words heavy with frustration and despair.
RUNDSTEDT (tired, on the phone) It’s a nightmare, Erich. Hitler won’t listen to reason. We’re losing ground every day.
MANSTEIN (V.O.) (worried) I wish I could help, Gerd. I’m afraid it’s out of our hands now.
INT. GERMAN HIGH COMMAND – WOLF’S LAIR – DAY – FLASHBACK
Rundstedt, having reached his breaking point during a critical meeting with the German High Command, raises his voice in an unprecedented show of dissent.
RUNDSTEDT (enraged) Make peace, you fools!
After this outburst, he is relieved of his command.
EXT. RUNDSTEDT’S ESTATE – DAY
Back in the present, Rundstedt stands in his garden, torn between duty and disillusionment. His loyalty to his country conflicts with his disdain for Hitler’s leadership. Amidst the silence of the garden, he wonders if there’s still a chance for him to serve his nation with honor. The weight of the question settles heavily upon him, leaving him standing alone, a solitary figure against the fading daylight.