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Lesson 12
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4 Replies
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Jeanne Sanner Finished Act 1
What I have learned in this lesson: First let me explain, that I got confused. I will not bore you with the details. The result is that today’s post includes all the things I should have been putting in Lessons 9, 10, and 11. Rather than going back and filling in those lessons, I will just work from here. Below is my ACT 1.
Second, slow writing is just not what I can do after _____ years of correcting as I go. The only play I have written is a 24 page screenplay. Others told me to slow write, and I am not exaggerating when I say, I did 47 (yes forty-seven) drafts of that sucker! Some of it was because the director kept changing actors on me, from having a brunette daughter, to having an Asian daughter, to having a blond daughter, which obviously can make a difference.
I know this is my first draft, and I realize that I will need to go back and trim, but I did stop and wordsmith and change things as I went. Maybe I will try writing shorter things, like 10 pages in the slow writing style. Anyway. I think I am now back on track, and what I have learned is that I am really enjoying creating characters and watching them grow. I even created a new character I had not thought of, and now he is going to play an interesting role in the story. Enough. On to Act 1 first Draft.
FADE IN:
EXT. SIDEWALK – NIGHT
BRAD,31, overly confident, high-level corporate software educator, DARIN, 29, successful webpage designer, and MATT, 25, withdrawn black man, friend of Darin walk down a San Diego sidewalk. Brad dominates the energized conversation. They arrive at their destination.
INT. RESTAURANT RESERVATION PODIUM – NIGHT
MATT
Paris?
BRAD
Yep. For three weeks!
MATT
You goin’ too, Darin?
Darin, Brad’s husband, takes glasses off, avoids Brad’s eyes.
DARIN
No. I really wish I could.
The HOST arrives to check them in. A PERSON escorts the men to a table for six.
MATT
Aren’t you scared of getting lost?
BRAD
Brad looks at Matt as if the question is absurd. Responds with a French accent.
No way. I am a Army, how do you call it, “brat”. I was raised in “Pareeee”, and we traveled all…
Brad’s voice fades as he continues his dialogue.
EXT. SIDEWALK – NIGHT
LAURA, 26, blond, South Carolinian, has southern accent, gentle, naïve walks down sidewalk, enters the restaurant.
INT. RESTAURANT – NIGHT
Laura is guided to Brad’s table. Darin stands up and gives Laura a quick hug.
DARIN
(Bows with grace)
It’s always so good to see you Laura.
Darin, with flair, pulls out a chair for her next to Matt. Brad stays seated, rolls his eyes, shakes his head, which no one sees.
DARIN
Laura, this is Matt, he is the brother of one my best friends.
Laura puts her hand on Matt’s arm.
LAURA
Hi Matt, I’m so glad to meet you. Any brother of my favorite cousin’s best friend is automatically a friend of mine!
Laura looks at Brad. Struggles to say hi.
LAURA
Hi Brad, How are you?
BRAD
Bien, merci. Happy birthday.
Darin, Matt, and Laura all join in with best wishes.
LAURA
Thank y’all so much!
BRAD
Please don’t anyone start singing. That is so lame.
Laura looks around. Breaks the awkwardness.
LAURA
Let’s get some drinks goin’ here. ANDREA and JUSTIN should be coming through that door any minute now.
Darin signals for a waiter.
LAURA
And let’s get separate checks, but I’ll take care of Andrea.
Matt looks at Darin with fear. Darin signals he will take care of it.
EXT. SIDEWALK – NIGHT
Andrea, turns 27 today. The dinner is a “twofer” since she and her fiancé, Justin, 30, Italian, determined, comes from wealth, stands on his own, are coming home from a three month cruise as employees. They are in their uniforms. They enter the restaurant.
INT. RESTAURANT – NIGHT
Andrea and Justin hear the “noise” coming from Brad’s table and escort themselves there.
Darin greets Andrea with a hug and shakes Justin’s hand.
DARIN
Welcome home and happy birthday; a real “twofor” for sure.
General greetings all around. Laura hugs both Andrea and Justin. Matt watches and smiles. Brad remains seated.
Andrea looks at Justin, points to finger and “asks” through looks if she can share. Justin, nods.
ANDREA
But, actually, tonight is a “threefor”.
She shows everyone her engagement ring.
BRAD
What in the hell is that? Is that supposed to be an engagement ring?
Everyone is looking.
LAURA
Oh, I know what that is. It’s a ring made of those colorful plastic strips you weave together to make key chains and things. I love it!
DARIN
Oh, yea! I love the colors. Let’s see yellow, orange, violet, and white. Cool.
ANDREA
Justin got to “play” with the kids on this cruise, and while they were working on theirs, he made this for me, and I absolutely love it.
JUSTIN
The real jewelry on the ship is bit out of our range right now.
ANDREA
And you know I love this more than anything else you could’ve given me!
(To everyone)
AND, No, we haven’t set a date YET. Maybe after our next cruise.
JUSTIN
That one is gonna be six months.
ANDREA
And he is gonna be moving on up the ladder. So, ultimately, I will be the captain’s wife.
JUSTIN
And I will be married to the highest ranking Cruise Ship RN in sailing history!
Andrea and Justin take their seats and general conversation continues silently.
INT. RESTAURANT – TIME PASSES.
Dinner is done. People have changed seats and are enjoying desert. Andrea is talking with Laura. Justin is getting to know Matt, and Brad and Darin are talking with each other.
LAURA
Oh, I forgot. I picked up the mail on the way out, and guess what.
ANDREA
What? What?
Laura is pulling mail out of her purse.
LAURA
There were lots of card-sized envelopes in there!
Andrea excitedly shares several cards with Laura and suddenly stops.
ANDREA
Oh, shit! That son-of-a bitch. I told him never to contact me again. Son-of-a-bitch!
Everyone grows quiet. Matt looks totally confused looking at Darin for a clue. Darin shakes his head “no” to Matt, and mouths, “Later.” Matt nods.
BRAD
(Intoxicated)
Gee, that card couldn’t be from your Daddy, could it?
DARIN
(Leaning in to Brad, quietly begging)
Let it go, Brad.
ANDREA
(Glaring at Brad; faking French accent)
“Wee, Wee, my sewer, however did you know?”
LAURA
(Getting up quickly)
You know what? I’ve gotta wash my hands and freshin’ up a bit. Come with me Andi.
Laura practically pulls Andrea out of her chair and takes her to the girl’s room.
INT. LADIE’S ROOM – CONTINUOUS
LAURA
(She grabs Andrea’s arm)
What in the hell is the matter with you girl?
ANDREA
(Pulling away)
You know how I feel about my father!
LAURA
I’m not talking about your father. I’m talking about you and Justin.
ANDREA
The truth? He’s just like my father. For some reason he hates me, and I don’t know why, and I hate his arrogance and his attacks.
LAURA
Well, just cool it. Okay? We’re here to celebrate for pity sakes.
ANDREA
What am I supposed to do?
LAURA
Ignore him! Period, Andi. Now let’s get back to havin’ some fun.
Girls return to the table. It is obvious, Darin is not too happy with Brad and neither is Justin. Matt just watches.
BRAD
(Slurring some of his words)
I know I’m gonna be in deep shit, but I’m gonna say it anyway!
Darin turns away, Justin stands up. Laura sits, defeated. Matt stares. Andrea stays standing. Brad stays sitting.
BRAD
I’m sick and tired of your little self-pity tantrums whenever the topic of your father comes up. What did he do, call you chubby when you were little, slap your little bottom when you were bad?
Andrea sits, takes a sip of her drink, and tries to ignore him.
BRAD
My daddy bolted when I was three, but you don’t hear me going on and on about what a bastard he was.
JUSTIN
Brad, I think you’ve made your point. We all have grievances, but some are more traumatic than others.
BRAD
Oh traumatic, how dramatic. And exactly how much trauma did little miss drama queen experience.
JUSTIN
It’s none of your business.
BRAD
Well, she always makes it our business, doesn’t she.
ANDREA
Okay. Alright. I’ll tell you what he did. Besides beating me with a razor strop ‘til I had welts from two years old, to belting me across the face so hard I fell off the kitchen chair, telling me I’m no good for anyone or anything, he…
Darin and Laura already know these things, Matt looks at Darin wide-eyed, Justin bows his head, Laura slumps in her seat, Brad just crosses his arms.
Andrea is deciding whether she should reveal the whole truth.
And he – which NOBODY KNOWS, sexually abused me for years. I guess I was good enough for that.
There is a stunned moment. Justin puts his arm around Andrea, Laura jumps up to hug her, Matt looks down at his feet. Darin stares in disbelief, Brad doesn’t move.
I’m soooo sorry my anger, and hurt, and shame put me on edge when I hear his name. That’s it! I’m done here.
Everyone is stunned. Andrea grabs purse, runs out. Laura gets up. Darin goes after Andrea. Justin signals both to sit, he runs after her. Brad takes another drink. Matt just watches.
DARIN
I’m done, too. Come on Brad, I’m driving.
They exit. Laura moves next to Matt.
LAURA
I’m sorry I didn’t get a chance to know you better tonight, Matt.
Laura reaches for her purse, which causes her to look away from Matt.
MATT
Cops killed my brother right in front of me; they thought he was some other guy.
Laura puts her purse down. Looks compassionately at Matt. Stands up. Motions Matt to stand up. Matt gets up. Laura holds Matt in her arms a long time.
LAURA
I’ll take you home.
EXT. SIDEWALK – CONTINUOUS
Darin is walking Brad to the car. They get in, but Darin does not start the car.
BRAD
Are we home yet?
DARIN
Is that intended to be funny?
BRAD
No.
DARIN
No. We aren’t home yet.
BRAD
Where are we?
Darin starts the car.
DARIN
(Almost to himself)
That’s a very good question, Brad.
EXT. PARKING LOT – CONTINUOUS
Justin catches up with Andrea. They stand outside the passenger’s side of Justin’s car.
ANDREA
Why does he hate me?
JUSTIN
Come back to my place tonight.
ANDREA
Honestly, I’ve never done anything to him.
JUSTIN
I don’t want you to be alone tonight.
ANDREA
It’s okay, Justin. I’m just tired and want to sleep in my own bed, and besides Laura will be there if I need anything. Please don’t take this personally, Justin.
Justin starts to say more, realizes it is futile.
JUSTIN
Okay.
INT. ANDREA’S LIVING ROOM – CONTINUOUS
Laura has gotten home first. Andrea enters quietly. Laura is sitting on the couch with a glass of wine and one for Andrea. She puts her wine down, and rushes to the door as she hears Andrea entering.
LAURA
Oh, my God, Andrea, I’m so sorry about tonight. How are you?
They hug and head to the couch.
ANDREA
Drained.
Laura chooses not to push. She sits back and lets Andrea speak if she wants to.
ANDREA
Thank you for staying up.
LAURA
Who could sleep after tonight?
ANDREA
(laughing)
I can!
Andrea takes one more sip of wine, and heads to her bedroom.
LAURA
My nurturing genes are working over-time and I insist on tucking you in.
Laura follows Andrea.
ANDREA
And, oh my god, Andi, I have to tell you what Matt said after all of you were gone.
INT. JUSTIN’S BEDROOM – MORNING
Andrea and Justin are getting dressed and packing for a weekend in the mountains. When they’re finished, they have fun making the bed and throwing pillows at each other. They then flop on the bed and kiss passionately, and then, Justin counts to three and they race to get up, grab their things and head out the door.
ANDREA
How far from the ocean will we be?
JUSTIN
_______ (research this) with fresh mountain air and birds and flowers, and squirls, and…
ANDREA
And bears, and snakes, and bugs, oh my!
INT. JUSTIN’S CAR – MORNING
It is a gorgeous day, windows down, music on, they both love Musicals to sing with. Sound of Music/The Hills are Alive is playing and they are singing. Andrea can harmonize well. As they are singing “I must have done something good” to each other…
SOUND FADES – Time passes
INT. JUSTIN’S CAR – AFTERNOON
How about Jesus Christ Super Star? That always gets us movin’ and agrovin’. But, before the selection is made.
ANDREA
I still haven’t been able to track Darin down to find out more about Matt’s brother.
JUSTIN
Did you text him about our camping trip?
ANDREA
Yeh, and he never returned the text. That is VERY unusual.
ANDREA
I’ll text him now.
Andrea looks at her phone, throws it on the floor, pounds the dashboard, and muffles her desperate scream . Justin knows what happened. There is nothing he can say, but he is not happy that their fun trip is being ruined, and it shows.
EXT. CABIN – LATER
They are both quiet as they move things into the cabin.
INT. CABIN – CONTINUOUS
JUSTIN
(Matter-of-factly)
I’m going to the store to get supplies, is there anything in particular you want or need?
ANDREA
Andrea goes over to Justin and hugs him. He hugs back.
ANDREA
I’m sorry Justin. I truly am, and I promise not to ruin the weekend.
JUSTIN
Let’s talk when I get back.
Justin leaves. Andrea, paces, shakes her head, obviously upset with herself. She decides to call, Darin one more time; she needs him. Darin answers.
ANDREA
Oh, thank God, Darin. Where have you been? Are you alright.
INT. CABIN – CONTINUOUS
Time has passed. Andrea is calm and laughing. Justin enters with bags, heads for kitchen.
ANDREA
Oh, Darin, my captain of captains has just arrived with lots of goodies. I’ll see you when we get back.
Justin is in the kitchen unpacking.
JUSTIN OS
I’m glad you finally reached Darin. How is he? Where in the blazes has he been?
Andrea joins Justin in the kitchen and helps put things in the fridge.
INT. KITCHEN – LATE AFTERNOON
They are busy fixing sandwiches. Andrea fixes Justin’s and Justin fixes Andreas.
ANDREA
He went on a retreat! He hasn’t done that in – oh, three years at least.
JUSTIN
Did he say why?
ANDREA
He skirted it, but I think he is having trouble with Brad’s drinking.
JUSTIN
I get that!
ANDREA
And I think he is worried about Brad being in Paris for three weeks.
JUSTIN
I thought he had forgiven Brad for the affair.
ANDREA
He has, but he is still struggling with trust issues.
They give each other a hug, exchange sandwiches, drinks (sodas) and a kiss and a genuine loving “thank you” and head to the living room.
Andrea sits grabs the lounge chair. Justin sits on the couch. As they eat…
JUSTIN
Did Darin know about Brad’s drinking before they got married?
ANDREA
I asked him the same thing when I caught on to the problem. He said Brad hid the size of it very well.
JUSTIN
I’m in somewhat of a similar situation.
ANDREA
What do you mean honey? I don’t drink.
JUSTIN
No, but…
ANDREA
Oh my God. Ohhhh my God! Oh, is it really…? Oh my God, Justin. I’m sooo sorry. I will never do it again, I promise.
JUSTIN
I honestly don’t think you can say that, Andi. It’s such an instant visceral and violent reaction, I don’t think you can control it, and I’m worried about you!
ANDREA
You knew about…
JUSTIN
No, I didn’t. You told me about your dad through an EMAIL! That message seemed controlled on my end, but I have no idea what you were going through while your were writing it.
ANDREA
Oh my God.
JUSTIN
You also told me you had “beu cue,” unending, drive-you-crazier, YOUR words, counselor after counselor. So what do you think I knew?
Andrea has stopped eating.
JUSTIN
And you never, ever told me all that he had done to you, and I’m devastated that I haven’t made you feel safe enough to share your most frightening nightmares with me.
Andrea gets up and goes to Justin on the couch and hugs him.
JUSTIN
And I had no idea how to handle the other night at dinner, but I do know that we have to find a solution to your hatred, and I will everything I can to help.
ANDREA
I don’t know how to fix the rage, but Darin thinks he knows.
JUSTIN
What?
ANDREA
He was desperate to find a way to deal with Brad’s affair. And one day in the park he met this really odd character; in fact, we call him OC for odd character, since he won’t tell anyone his name.
JUSTIN
Is he a criminal? Why doesn’t he tell anybody his name? Is he hiding something? Is he dangerous?
ANDREA
Darin doesn’t think so; the guy’s just… odd. Anyway, Darin said he was a tremendous help to him, and maybe he could help me.
JUSTIN
What did he do – give him drugs? Kidnap him and put him under some kind of hypnotic spell?
ANDREA
I don’t know.
JUSTIN
You don’t know? Why didn’t Darin tell you?
ANDREA
Because the OC made him promise not to tell anyone. If someone needs help, they need to go to him without any preconceived ideas.
JUSTIN
Well, I want to meet ol’ OC if you decide to check him out. Okay?
ANDREA
I do want to get a crip on my anger, Justin.
PHONE RINGS:
Andrea gets up to answer her phone which she left in the kitchen
JUSTIN
(loud to Andrea as she leaves the room)
Good.
JUSTIN
(to himself)
It really is important to me and for us.
EXT. JUSTIN’S CAR – NEXT MORNING
Justin is loading up the car.
ANDREA
Justin please, please.
JUSTIN
I’m really sorry, Andrea, but I need time to think about all of this, and you need time to figure out how you are going to handle it.
ANDREA
I know, I know.
JUSTIN
I’m not sure you do. Your dad has someone call you on his behave, and you go crazy again. Honey, I don’t know how to handle it. It never happened before now. Why?
ANDREA
Because I left and never let him know where I was or how to contact me.
JUSTIN
Well how did he find you.
ANDREA
One of his friends was on the cruise with us. I never saw him, but he saw me; I was in the middle of an emergency on deck, and he didn’t want to interrupt. Apparently, he never tried to find me, but he told dad.
JUSTIN
Whatever. Do you have all your stuff? Just leave the food. The next person will get a nice surprise.
ANDREA
Justin…
JUSTIN
Andrea…I need to leave, and I’m not going without you.
Andrea goes in to get the rest of her things.
INT. ANDREA’S KITCHEN – MORNING – A WEEK LATER
Andrea and Laura are fixing breakfast. Laura has grits, Andrea has bacon and eggs. It is a beautifully choreographed dance they have done for several years. They can chat, too.
ANDREA
Well, Laura, I woke up this morning angrier than…than…
LAURA
(A ——– research a southern saying)
Why?
ANDREA
He’s manipulating me. It just dawned on me. He’s controlling me.
LAURA
Well…
ANDREA
All of a sudden I have some kind of wart he doesn’t want to look at, and he wants to “take a break” until I get the wart removed?
LAURA
Well…
ANDREA
I didn’t ask him to get rid of any of his warts.
LAURA
Does he have warts?
ANDREA
I don’t know yet, but I’m sure he has some. Doesn’t everybody?
LAURA
Well…
ANDREA
Well, I woke up this morning really, really furious, and then I came up with a plan.
LAURA
A plan?
ANDREA
Okay, a “scheme.” I’m going to write a beautiful conciliatory email?
LAURA
To Justin?
ANDREA
No. To my father.
LAURA
Really?
ANDREA
Yep, and I will convince Justin that I sent it and that my father got back with me, and we plan to get together.
LAURA
You know I’m not dumb, but I’m confused. Do mean for real or not?
ANDREA
No, Laura. It wouldn’t be a “scheme” if it were real? Right?
LAURA
I’m sorry Andrea, but I’ve never seen you like this, and I’m worried.
They move to the kitchen table to eat.
ANDREA
What’s good for the goose…I have no desire what-so-ever to resolve things with my father, and nobody has the right to tell me what I have to do or not do!
LAURA
True, but…
ANDREA
It’s okay, Laura. Don’t worry about it, and obviously this is just between us, but I won’t bother you with it any more.
LAURA
It’s not a bother, Andi. I’m just suddenly talkin’ with somebody I never met before, and I miss Andrea.
They eat in silence.
INT. ANDREA’S BEDROOM MID-MORNING
Andrea is at her computer composing an email.
ANDREA
Dear Dad…
INT. ANDREA’S BEDROOM – CONTINUOUS
Andrea is on her phone.
ANDREA
Justin, I’ve made some progress, and I want to share it with you. Please call me. Love you.
Andrea hangs up, reads her email again and smiles.
PHONE RINGS (REMEMBER TO PICK A RING TONE FOR EACH CHARACTER)
ANDREA
Hi Justin. oh my, it’s so good to hear your voice. I’ve missed you.
JUSTIN
Hi Andi. Are you okay?
ANDREA
I am now. I want to read something to you.
JUSTIN
Okay.
Justin is in his living room, studying one of the manuals he needs to read to become a cruise ship captain. He listens intensely as Andrea is apparently reading the email she wrote to her father.
JUSTIN
I love the opening! It is warm.
JUSTIN
I’m not sure I would phrase it that way. Let’s see…
Voice fades. Time passes. Voices return when Andrea finishes reading her email to Justin.
ANDREA
Well, what do you think?
JUSTIN
My first question is, how do YOU feel about the email?
ANDREA
Honestly, I’m not sure. I don’t know if I want really want to get together with him, but I don’t want to lose you, Justin.
JUSTIN
I don’t want to lose you either, Andi. Well, I’m very happy for you and for us that you are trying. I’m looking forward to the next step.
ANDREA
So, do you want to hit a movie tonight?
JUSTIN
Oh, honey, I’m sorry, but I have other plans.
Silence on the other end.
JUSTIN
No. No. Don’t worry; I’m not seeing someone else. Not everyone is like Brad. Not nice, I know.
They laugh and hang up.
LAURA
Did he like the letter?
JUSTIN
He had a few suggestions, but was very happy about my progress.
LAURA
Are really not going to send it?
ANDREA
Watch me.
Andrea deletes the email.
LAURA
I’m sorry. I think that letter was a really good idea and a great step toward healing, Andi.
ANDREA
Well, I will be healed when I get Justin back, and manage to maintain my cool whenever my father tries to contact me. I can do this!
INT. RESTAURANT – AFTERNOON
Andrea is sitting in a booth alone, with a salad and soda. Andrea goes through some deep breathing, then makes a phone call.
ANDREA
Justin, oh good! I’m so glad I gotcha. I’m having lunch at our favorite place, and I would love for you to join me.
JUSTIN
Have heard from your dad?
ANDREA
YES! I can’t believe it. He is coming for dinner this Friday. Why don’t you come over and celebrate with me. Are you free?
JUSTIN
Oh, Andi, that is wonderful news. Honestly, how are you dealing with it?
ANDREA
Honestly? Sometimes I want to strangle you, and sometimes I want to jump up and down together, and sometimes, well anyway, I can’t put my finger on just one reaction.
JUSTIN
Well, I am really happy.
ANDREA
So, can you join me for lunch?
JUSTIN
It’s tempting, but I am studying for a test I will be taking on line tomorrow, and I want to ace it.
ANDREA
But…
Andrea stops herself.
ANDREA
Well, I’m disappointed of course, but I really do understand. Anyway, I will keep you updated. Love you.
JUSTIN
Okay, Andi. Chat later. Wait! Hey! Darin, Brad, Matt, and I are going to the movies tomorrow night so I can gel after taking the exam. Would you like to come.
Andrea signals a silent arm pump and YES.
ANDREA
It depends on what you’re going to see?
JUSTIN
Nope. I ain’t tellin’. Either you want to be with us or not! Bring Laura if she would like to come.
ANDREA
What time?
Andrea dances into the living room. Laura is reading a book to see if her students would like it.
ANDREA
(She says Laura, like —- said Judy, Judy, Judy.)
Laura, Laura, Laura
Would you like to go to the movies tomorrow night?
LAURA
What’s playin’?
ANDREA
I don’t know, but Darin, Matt, Brad, and – guess who are going.
LAURA
Let me see… could it be Justin?
ANDRE
You are so smart! Are you game?
LAURA
Wouldn’t miss it. But I’m not sure I’m on your side.
INT. MOVIE THEATRE LOBBY – NIGHT
Matt and Laura are in the food line together. Darin and Justin are waiting for Matt and Laura.
MATT
I want to thank you for being so kind to me at the dinner.
LAURA
How are you doing?
MATT
Uh, actually, I haven’t told anybody yet, but I just graduated today.
LAURA
You did? That’s wonderful. Congratulations! What is your degree in?
MATT
Oh, not college. I am now EMT certified.
Andrea enters the lobby and looks around.
LAURA
Super! You are now a vital part of the health industry. When do you get assigned?
MATT
Monday.
Justin sees Andrea and calls her over. She hugs Justin and Darin. Andrea looks around.
ANDREA
Where’s everybody else?
DARIN
Laura and Matt getting goodies.
ANDREA
Where’s Brad
DARIN
He decided not to come.
ANDREA
Hmmm. I won’t ask.
DARIN
Don’t worry; I’m sure he will find some other friends at Bill’s bar.
ANDREA
Here come the goodies.
JUSTIN
You didn’t get a chance to put in your order. Do you want me…
ANDREA
Laura always knows what I want.
INT. MOVIE THEATER LOBBY – NIGHT
The gang is coming out from the movie and are talking about it in the lobby.
PLACEHOLDER: Need to pick the movie? Need a scene with each character reflecting who they are?
ANDREA
Oh my God. I forgot to tell you all! Justin and Laura know that I sent an email to my father!
DARIN
Andi, that’s wonderful. How did you ever decide to do that?
ANDREA
Andrea glances at Justin. Laura walks away, finishes her drink, throws the cup in the trash, and stays there longer than needed.
ANDREA
(Awkwardly)
Never mind that, I want to tell you what happened next!
JUSTIN
Did contact you?
ANDREA
YES! He called and could hardly talk he was crying so hard. He kept saying he was sorry, and he now realizes what he did was wrong.
JUSTIN
He just now realizes what he did was wrong? What an idiot.
ANDREA
Well, we are going out to dinner tomorrow night, and he can explain everything then.
Laura returns to the group.
DARIN
My God Andi, that is really…You seem excited…but I don’t know how you could…well, anyway, I am thrilled for you.
JUSTIN
There are no words, Andrea. Except, let’s go to my place and celebrate!
DARIN
Well, aren’t you going to invite the rest of us?
Laughs all around. Laura looks at Andrea with disbelief.
LAURA
(With deliberate awareness that this was all part of the scheme, and it is going Andrea’s way.)
I’m just so glad we came in my car. I’m goin’ to say good-night all. Luv ya.
MATT
Laura, would you mind taking me home. I took the bus here.
LAURA
Of course, I would be happy to, Matt.
INT. JUSTIN’S BEDROOM – CONTINUOUS
It’s obvious they have had sex. Justin comes out of the bathroom in his underwear and sees Andrea getting dressed.
JUSTIN
What are doing, Andi? Aren’t you staying the night? What’s going on?
ANDREA
Something’s not right, Justin.
JUSTIN
What are you talking about? This is nothing but just right. I’ve been literally praying for this night.
Justin hops back into bed.
I love it when prayers are answered. Come on in, the water’s just right.
ANDREA
I can’t.
JUSTIN
Sits up. Okay, I’m a little slow on the uptake here. Something isn’t right, but I don’t know what or why?
ANDREA
It’s hard to explain.
JUSTIN
I gather that. Is it me? Has being away from me given you second thoughts. You can be honest with me Andi.
ANDREA
I know. I know. You always say, It is the truth that sets us free. That’s a major part of the problem.
JUSTIN
Do you think I’m not being honest right now? Do you think I’m pretending to be happy to feel you in my arms again.
ANDREA
No! No! No!
Justin waits. There is nothing more he can ask or do. Andrea brushes her hair in the mirror.
ANDREA
I can’t do it.
Justin roles over and sits on the edge of the bed near her.
JUSTIN
I’m listening, Andrea. What can’t you do?
Andrea slams her brush into her purse clutches her purse. Stops. Looks at Justin deciding whether to really be honest or not.
ANDREA
I lied.
JUSTIN
You lied. About what and why?
ANDREA
The why is because I love you.
Justin is beginning to catch on, but doesn’t want to believe what it is he thinking.
JUSTIN
That makes no sense. If you love me, you won’t lie to me. You will trust that I will listen and work with you to solve any problem.
ANDREA
See but you didn’t work with me. You abandond me! You manipulated me. You made me work on the worst thing in my life on my own.
JUSTIN
I did what I thought was best. And it worked. Didn’t it?
Andrea is silent.
JUSTIN
(Standing up in her face.)
Well, didn’t it work, Andrea!
Andrea walks away from him actually frightened by his intensity. She turns back to him.
ANDREA
No Justin, it didn’t work! I did not send that email to my father, and I never intended to. I made up everything about the phone call, and …
JUSTIN
You made up all of this success you had with your father? And you have convinced yourself that you did that because you love me?
Justin walks over to Andrea, looks her in the eye. She starts backing out of the bedroom. He stays right with her.
JUSTIN
Get out! GET OUT AND STAY OUT OF MY LIFE! NO TEXTS, NO EMAILS. NO PHONE CALLS, NO FRIENDS TRYING TO FIX THINGS UP. I COULD NEVER TRUST YOU AGAIN.
Justin turns his back on her, goes into the bedroom and slams the door. Andrea, just stands there.
ANDREA
The truth does not set you free.
-
Laurie- I finished the first draft of Act 1! With this assignment I was able to see how the speed writing technique worked. Going back and putting in the scenes where I had put ‘placeholder’ really worked for me. Still a few placeholders for dialogue to remind myself to buckle down or do more research in future drafts… but here is ACT 1 in it’s entirety…about 23 pages.
Act 1:
INT: ANNIE & SEAN’S ATTIC, 2018-DAY
Pitch black.
The click of a chain light reveals an attic stored neatly with rubber storage bins. Most are dusty, the one labeled JOE on curling masking tape is clean. Two hands, each bearing a wedding ring, lifts the top revealing a neatly folded but faded, man’s shirt. ANNIE, a fit 60 year old, lifts the shirt to her face and inhales.
Nothing.
Dismayed, she roots through the bin of memorabilia until she finds an old bottle of aftershave. She shakes it but it is empty. She opens it anyway and rubs neck of the bottle on the shirt collar.
Annie gathers the shirt to her chest, drapes the empty arms around her neck and hugs the memory with a wistful smile.
MAGGIE-20 (O.S.)
Mom!? Erin is here and Hunter is five minutes away, are you ready?
Annie quickly puts the shirt back.
ANNIE-60
Coming!
Annie stands quickly, but bangs her head on the low ceiling.
ANNIE-60
OW!
SEAN-60 (O.S.)
Annie? You ok?
INT. ANNIE & SEAN’S HOUSE, UPSTAIRS HALLWAY-CONT.
Annie exits the narrow door from the attic, rubbing her head just as SEAN, a handsome man in his 60’s rounds the corner.
SEAN-60
Did you bang your head again?
ANNIE-60
Still trying to knock some sense into the old noggin. Not working so far.
Sean folds her into his arms and kisses the top of her head. When he notices the smell of the aftershave, his demeaner sags.
INT: ANNIE & SEAN’S KITCHEN, PRESENT DAY, CONT.
MAGGIE, an earnest 20-yr old and ERIN, a pleasant 35 yr old are at the kitchen table. HUNTER, a stoic millennial techy enters from a back door and steps through a doorway to the music room, setting his bass guitar down before joining them in the kitchen.
Annie, dressed for skiing as are her adult kids, enters the kitchen, with Sean behind her.
A beaming Maggie places a mason jar on the table full of colored strips of paper. The jar has a title with fancy script. ‘Things Your Adult Kids Now Appreciate’.
ANNIE-60
What’s this? I said no presents, having the day with you kids on the slope is all I wanted.
ERIN-35
We didn’t spend any money.
Annie sits, opens the jar and pulls out a few of the strips, reading the messages to herself. She grins.
ANNIE-60
That’s so nice. I didn’t know you remembered that.
The kids are pleased with themselves.
MAGGIE-20
Read them aloud!
Annie reaches into the jar and grabs several, glancing at them quickly. She hesitates, undecided.
ERIN-35
Just pick the best one!
Sean leans over Annie’s shoulder to read the scraps of favorite memories.
MAGGIE-20
That’s like asking Mom to pick her favorite child.
HUNTER-32
Which is me, of course.It even says so in her phone- right next to MY name.
They all laugh.
ERIN-35
That’s only because you programmed her contacts for her! I think her favorite is the one she was toughest on, which is usually the first. The youngest always gets away with murder.
MAGGIE-20
Huh! You guys don’t know the half of it, you were both out of the house by the time I hit my teens, like the time I-
She stops, mischievously.
ANNIE-60
Quiet you three, you all know who my favorite is.
The kids look a little hurt.
ANNIE-60
The quiet one who never sassed me.
Maggie and Hunter give a ‘not me’ look. Then Erin gets it.
ERIN-35
Stella! Or if we want to go with her full name, Bad Mama Stella.
They all grin and look at a large spider plant in the kitchen bay window.
MAGGIE-20
I never got the Bad Mama part.
ERIN-35
Mom said it’s cause it looks like spider plants throw their babies out of the nest. She used to try to tuck them back in, she felt sorry for them.
HUNTER-32
I can’t believe that plant is still alive.
ERIN-35
Especially since she had to share a back seat with you all the way out here from California.
HUNTER-32
Hey, I only threw up on her once! That was, what, two years after Dad died, so I was maybe 10?
Erin’s mood drops and the kitchen grows quiet. Annie plucks another scrap from the jar.
ANNIE-60
This one says- For staying patient when you taught me how to drive, even when I went the wrong way on a one way street.
Everyone hoots and points at Erin. Maggie picks one up.
MAGGIE-20
Because we all have ‘Ican’tfinditus”
Erin reads one.
ERIN-35
Giving up your sweater for us, even though we didn’t bring one after you told us to.
HUNTER-32
That’s why mom’s password for everything is wearasweater!
They all laugh. Sean reads one.
SEAN-60
You would cook three separate dinners sometimes to keep everyone happy.
ERIN-35
Oh yeah, there was the vegetarian phase for Maggie, but then Hunter would gag if you put a vegetable in front of him, and for awhile I couldn’t tolerate any dairy.
SEAN-60
In my day, you just ate what was put in front of you and didn’t complain.
ANNIE-60
I didn’t mind, I just liked everyone around the table, laughing and joking. Like this.
Sean makes an imaginary halo with his hands over Annie’s head.
SEAN-60
Here, let me adjust your halo.
The mood changes slightly.
HUNTER-32
We can read the rest of these later, the lifts open in 30 minutes, lets get this birthday ski started!
Annie, Hunter, Maggie and Erin all start gathering gear and heading out the door. Sean is still sifting through the scraps of paper.
MAGGIE-20
Dad, are you sure you don’t want to come?
SEAN-60
No thanks, I’m going to try to finish up that song. You going to play with me later?
MAGGIE-20
Absolutely, and Hunter brought his bass so he can join in.
Annie gives Sean a kiss on the cheek and they all bustle out the door.
SEAN-60
Have fun! Take a run for me.
After they leave, Sean turns his attention back to one of the scraps of paper.
INSERT
For Being So Strong For Us After Dad Died
and always keeping his memory alive
Sean sighs, crosses to the music room and closes the door.
EXT. VERMONT SKI AREA 2018-DAY
Erin and Maggie are waiting half way down the mountain, looking up. Hunter skis down to them, slightly out of control, and does a sliding stop that purposely sprays them both. Laughing, Maggie pushes him over, but he takes her down with him.
ERIN-35
Hey you two!I guess some things never change.
Erin offers her pole to Maggie to help her up, but Maggie pulls her down instead and they are all helpless with laughter.
Annie skis down to them, a smooth careful skier, and gracefully stops. She smiles down at them affectionately.
ANNIE-60
I’m so lucky that my grown children actually like hanging out together.
MAGGIE-20
What makes you think I like this guy? He’s like the ‘millennial’ poster child. Gag.
Hunter, Erin and Maggie, untangle themselves and stand up, brushing off snow.
HUNTER-32
The millennial who built your app…and taught you how to ski.
ERIN-35
I taught her how to ski! And changed her diapers.
ANNIE-60
I taught you all how to ski. Well, mostly. Dad… Joe, helped teach you two. He used to take you on his ski patrol rounds.
This last statement is directed at Erin and Hunter.
ERIN-35
I remember.
They exchange a wistful look.
MAGGIE-20
Mom, you looked pretty on top of your skis coming down. You still got style!
ANNIE-60
Thank you. But you don’t have to sound quite so surprised. Turning 60 doesn’t mean I’m ready for the old folks home.
HUNTER-32
Guy on the lift told me they just opened Crazy Chutes, so they’ll be fresh snow, you guys game?
ANNIE-60
You three go ahead, I’m going to take Easy Street down.
HUNTER-32
You sure Mom? We can all just stick together.
ANNIE-60
Go for it. I’ll meet you at chair 5.
Hunter and Maggie take off down the slope, but Erin slides closer to Annie.
ERIN-35
You ok Mom? I can stay with you.
ANNIE-60
No, no, I’m fine, you go catch up with them. I don’t mind a little time on my own.
Erin leans in and gives her a quick kiss, then takes off down the slope, hollering out a big ‘Yahoo’. Annie smiles down at her brood, then notices a ski patrolman in the distance. She grows wistful. She shakes it off and starts to hum a song as she takes off towards a sign that says ‘Easy Street’.
The song stays with her as she gets into a rhythm and picks up speed.
Someone skiing out of control crosses into her path and she veers off to the side of the run to avoid them.
Annie catches an edge and goes flying into the woods, almost regains her balance, dodges a few bushes, then smacks hard right into a tree and all goes to black.
INT. ALTERED STATE-TIMELESS
Black lightens to deep purple, to dark lavender as Annie, still at 60 and in her ski clothes, but not her helmet, boots or jacket, opens her eyes. She is sitting, cross-legged on one of the many roots of a silver birch tree that extends out of vision. Their appears to be no ground, no horizon, just an endless space.
What looks like billions of grains of different colored sand is swirling around her and the tree. Annie looks around and notices lots of other swirls, some closer, some tiny, some overlapping. She looks back and sees that the root next to her has morphed into a silver hooded figure. She gasps as a face emerges.
ANNIE-60
Sarita!
Sarita smiles and nods.
ANNIE-60
Is this..where am I? I, I know you died years ago- so am I dead?
SARITA
Not quite. Your outcome is not apparent yet.
ANNIE-60
So what is this? My imagination? A dream? A very, very colorful dream?
SARITA
You are in a timeless space along with many other souls who are in a state of transition like you.
ANNIE-60
Soul?
SARITA
Soul, thoughts, conscious, memory, essence, spirit. All that makes us who we are, that is not physical. It has many names. No one is just a body, that is simply a vessel.
ANNIE-60
I’m not sure I understand.
SARITA
I’m trying to explain in the words that are common to you. It’s different for everyone.
ANNIE-60
Ah, so this is my imagination, which decided that you, my old yoga teacher was the best one to dummy down, whatever this is. For some reason I thought once I died everything I ever wondered about would become clear.
SARITA
Ah- all knowing. Well, for one thing it doesn’t’ work that way and for another you have not passed over- your language- yet. Time and space are merged here. This is a metaphysical space where (INSERT better LANGUAGE)…
ANNIE-60
Hmm, that doesn’t sound like my language.
SARITA
Well, it could be that you read it at some point in your life, and are recalling it now. I’m teasing you. Look around.
Annie notices all the many swirls. Some of them suddenly swoop off towards a brilliant light like a vibrant swarm.
SARITA
Most in this space or waiting to pass, or are in comas, perhaps even in a drug induced, trance induced or, as I was taught from the Tibetan Book of the Dead, one of the bardos, such as Chikkhai, the Fourth bardo.
ANNIE-60
Actually, I understand that. And I, I don’t feel… afraid. But..I don’t think I want to …go.
SARITA
That’s one of the reasons why you are here. Most often there is no choice. Your vessel is no more. But sometimes, the body, mind, spirit- your heart, is unresolved. [PLACEHOLDER NEEDS WORK]
Annie sighs.
ANNIE-60
Is.. is he here somewhere?
SARITA
Look closer.
Sarita draws Annie’s attention to the millions of colorful particles swiftly swirling around them. Sarita gently inserts her hand into the stream and it slows.
The particles form into various scenes from Annie’s life that rapidly glide by- like a swiftly moving large slide show, but more fluid. Every now and then you can see a glimpse of a person, object or place. Sarita spreads her fingers and briefly halts a memory scene that looms large in front of Annie, like a small TV with blurred edges. She watches, amazed.
INSERT- MEMORY SCENE 1
Annie-25 delightedly throws her arms around Joe-25, who hugs her hard, which makes her fart. They both break into laughter.
The scene dissolves and swirls away. Annie smiles wistfully. Sarita stops another memory.
ANNIE-60
Hey- that’s you.
INSERT-MEMORY SCENE 2
Sarita at 50 is helping Annie-30 with a yoga position.
The scene dissolves and Sarita shows Annie several more in rapid succession. They are brief and not in chronological order.
INSERT-MEMORY SCENE 3
Sean-40 showing Hunter-12 how to play the bass.
INSERT-MEMORY SCENE 4
Annie-8 playing with her dolls.
INSERT-MEMORY SCENE 5
Annie-25 marrying Joe-25
INSERT-MEMORY SCENE 6
Annie-30 skiing with Joe-30 and Erin-4
INSERT-MEMORY SCENE 7
Annie 41- giving birth to Maggie
All the scenes are brief. Annie is enthralled.
ANNIE-60
Wait.. wait. Can I see some of those again, can you hold them for longer?
SARITA
You can visit your memory if you like.
ANNIE-60
What do you mean?
SARITA
Everything that ever was is here. Your thoughts, your memories, are timeless. And time has no parameters here, no limits. Visiting a memory may help you come to a better understanding of the direction your soul should take at this great intersection. What memory would you like to inhabit first?
ANNIE-60
Um, when I was child, playing with my dolls, my mother was there I think.
Sarita reaches into the swirls and stops the scene of Annie at 8 playing with her dolls.
SARITA
Reach out to little Annie.
Hesitantly Annie-60 reaches her hand into the scene. Her hand, then her arm, then her whole body dissolves into a million colorful particles and is absorbed into Annie at 8.
INT. ANNIE-8 CHILDHOOD HOME, BEDROOM-1965-DAY
The nearly transparent figure of Annie-60 overlays Annie-8 creating Altered Annie-8 who is grainy and glows slightly. Altered Annie-8 is playing with her stuffed animals and dolls. Her bedroom is decorated with butterflies- on the walls, hanging from the ceiling, everywhere. Annie is lost in the play, happily.
MOTHER-MARY (O.S.)
Annie? ANNIEEEEE!
Altered-Annie-8 freezes. Her mother pokes her head around the door, then dramatically steps into the doorway. She has elaborate eye shadow, big hair and is wearing a brilliant blue and green caftan with flowing sleeves. She raises her arms dramatically and flutters. Like a butterfly.
MOTHER-MARY
There you are my darling.
Altered-Annie-8 breaths a sigh of relief.
ALTERED ANNIE-8
Mommy! You changed your dress! You look beautiful.
The glowing figure of Annie-60 tries to stretch out of Altered Annie-8 and touch her mother’s face as she bends down, but Annie-60 has no mass and is pulled back into Altered-Annie 8. Her mother and Altered Annie-8 can not see any of this.
MOTHER-MARY
Thank you my sweet one. I have to constantly change, morph, like the butterfly to keep them guessing.
Altered-Annie-8 looks around not understanding. Then smiles.
ALTERED ANNIE-8
It’s a game! Can I play too?
MOTHER-MARY
Of course. But they will recognize you, you must put on a different disguise.
Mary crosses to the closet and grabs an armful of dresses. At first delighted, Altered-Annie-8 picks one and starts to take off her dress.
MOTHER-MARY
No! Not that one. This one.
Mary thrusts a different dress at her.
MOTHER-MARY
There is no time. Hurry!
Mother-Mary grows frantic and puts a dress right over the top of the other that Altered-Annie 8 is wearing. Then Mary stares at some of the stuffed animals and dolls that Altered Annie-8 had been playing with.
MOTHER-MARY
They are watching! They will tell!
Altered-Annie-8 is starting to get confused.
ALTERED ANNIE-8
No, Mommy, they are my friends, they can play too.
But Mary is growing frenetic. She grabs some of the dolls and stuffs them under the mattress. Then whirls on a stuffed animal.
MOTHER-MARY
What? How dare you threaten me with blackmail.
Mary grabs the stuffy and crosses to the window.
ALTERED ANNIE-8
No Mommy! Please don’t, he’ll be good. I promise. We won’t tell.
Again, Annie-60 tries to reach out of Altered Annie-8 to stop her mother, but is only able to stretch out a little ways before being pulled back in. Altered-Annie-8 starts crying.
Mary gets the window open and throws the stuffy out the window.
ANNIE’S FATHER (O.S.)
Mary? Annie? What’s going on?
The glowing particles of Annie-60 swarm and leave Annie-8.
INT. ALTERED STATE, CONT.
Annie-60 is back in the altered state next to Sarita who now watches the memory dissolve and rejoin the swirl around them.
ANNIE-60
I think that was when I first begin to realize something was not quite right about my mother. I was so scared.
SARITA
Schizophrenia can be dangerous and very frightening for a little girl.
ANNIE-60
I was scared for her. Up until then, my mother had been my best playmate, she was so much fun then. I tried so hard to see what she saw.
PLACEHOLDER Need a way she knows she is coming out of the memory. CHANGE GUIDE?
Annie, at first still sad, continues to watch the swirl go by, our point of view is her face. Annie, spies something.
ANNIE-60
There! Oh that, can I visit that moment.
Sarita smiles and nods and Annie-60 inserts her arm into the swirl and is drawn in.
EXT. PARK-ANNIE AND SEAN’S WEDDING-1995
It’s an outdoor very small casual wedding. Erin-14 and Hunter-12 are the only attendants, on either side of the now slightly glowing Altered Annie-40 and Sean-40, with maybe 40 guests. It’s the end of the ceremony and the new couple kiss, then Erin and Hunter are pulled into a family hug. People come forward to congratulate the couple. Sean-40 leans in and whispers in Altered Annie-40’s ear.
SEAN-40
I wrote you a song, stay right there.
Sean-40 takes Hunter-12 with him to the side where a makeshift band area has been set up. Picnic tables for the reception are behind them.
MARY-LOU, Annie’s aunt and a beautiful bohemian looking woman with silver hair, hugs Altered Annie-40.
MARY-LOU-55
Oh sweetie, I’m so happy for you.
ALTERED ANNIE-40
I’m so glad you can make it! Thank you for flying all the way out here.
MARY-LOU-55
I wouldn’t miss it. It’s so good to see you happy again. And the kids! They seem to have really accepted Sean.
They both look over to where Sean is helping Hunter adjust the strap of a bass guitar that is a bit too big for him.
ALTERED ANNIE-40
Oh he’s wonderful with them. He got Hunter into music. Erin, well Erin is polite but a little distant. She thinks she needs to stay loyal to her father.
Altered Annie-40 looks wistfully down at her hands. She is wearing both wedding rings, one on each hand.
ALTERED ANNIE-40
It’s not like I’m ever going to forget Joe!
MARY-LOU-55
Oh honey, now don’t you start crying and ruin your makeup! You have nothing to feel guilty about! What happened wasn’t your fault, there was nothing you could have done about it. You are allowed to be happy again!
ALTERED ANNIE-40
Some people might think it’s too soon-
Altered Annie-40 puts her hand on her nearly flat belly and smiles.
ALTERED ANNIE-40
But…
MARY-LOU-55
Oh! Congratulations, that’s wonderful!
They hug again and Altered Annie-40 whispers in her ear.
ALTERED ANNIE-40
Shh.. we are not telling anyone yet. Especially not the kids.
Sean begins to play a song for Altered Annie-40. After a moment Annie-60 dissolves away.
INT. ALTERED STATE, CONT.
Annie-60 is back once again in the altered state with Sarita, watching the swirling memories go by.
ANNIE-60
That was a good day. A very good day.
SARITA
PLACEHOLDER -REF TO CHOICE? You had a lot of them.
The swirls slows and a scene hovers.
ANNIE-60
Gasp, no, no. Why did you stop on this memory?
SARITA
I didn’t, you did, you are starting to control your memories more. When you referenced a very good day, your thoughts then sought the opposite and the memory showed up.
Annie-60 watches the scene in horror from the altered state, again, as if it is on a small TV with blurred edges.
INSERT
Annie-35 is in the front yard of Annie & Joe’s cabin when a logging truck, speeds by, out of control and catches her attention. A moment later she hears a crash, and then she is running, running down the wooded road. She can see that the logging truck has crashed. As she gets closer, she see’s that it is Joe’s truck. It is demolished. The truck driver is coming around bloodied. Joe has been thrown clear, but his body is broken. Annie, silently screaming, finds him, falls to her knees, hesitates on whether she should move him, but then knows he is dead. She carefully cradles him and wails soundlessly.
Annie-60, in the altered state, buries her head in her hands and the memory swirls away.
SARITA
At that moment. You knew that your life, as you knew it, was over.
ANNIE-60
And I couldn’t do anything about it. And not just for me, for Erin and Hunter too. I could never fix this.
SARITA
But you went on.
ANNIE-60
I had no choice!
SARITA
Left foot, right foot?
ANNIE-60
Oh, that silly poem. Well I wrote that years later.
SARITA
You went on. Not everyone does. You chose to love again-
ANNIE-60
I don’t know if falling in love is actually a choice. Staying in love, maybe. I knew that if I loved again, I would hurt again. Inevitably. But..
SARITA
Then there was her.
The swirl has stopped on a memory of Annie-41 in a hospital bed. Annie-60 immediately reaches her hand into the swirl and is absorbed into the memory.
INT. HOSPITAL MATERNITY ROOM 1998
Altered Annie- 41, now glowing, is sitting up in bed, weary but smiling. Sean is lovingly cradling a small blanket with newborn Maggie. Hunter and Erin enter the room. Hunter goes to Sean and Maggie and Erin goes to Altered-Annie and hugs her.
ERIN-14
Mom, you ok?
ALTERED ANNIE-41
I’m fine sweetie, just a little tired.
HUNTER-12
Can I hold her?
SEAN-41
Ok, sit down first.
Instead of the chairs, Hunter and Erin sit on either side of Altered-Annie-41 who winches slightly, but smiles at a concerned Sean. Sean gently lays Maggie in Hunter’s arms.
SEAN-41
Meet your little sister.
Hunter is over joyed. Erin is trying to be stoic.
HUNTER-12
Hi Maggie!
ERIN-14
Well, technically she’s our half sister. Hunter, I’m your only real sister.
Silence. Sean-41 looks upset, but Altered Annie-41 holds up a hand to him. She leans over and kisses Erin on the cheek. Annie-60 tries to hold that moment longer. Altered Annie-41 then leans over and kisses Hunter on the cheek, then gently takes Maggie from his arms and kisses her on her little head before placing her in a reluctant Erin’s arms.
ALTERED ANNIE-41
We are one whole family. No halves here. Some of each of us flows through Maggie, we share common cells and a whole love. She unites us all together, forever. Maggie will never feel that she is a half sister. Unless you make her feel that way.
Erin has slowly dropped her defenses and is now gazing adoringly at Maggie. She looks up with tears at Altered-Annie 41.
ERIN-14
Oh Mom, Sean, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean it. Not one bit. She is my forever sister.
Sean leans over and hugs them all. Annie-60, slides out and returns to the altered state.
INT. ALTERED STATE, CONT.
PLACEHOLDER SHOW HOW SHE IS PULLED BACK-MAYBE BODY,MIND, SPIRIT IN ALIGN?
Annie-60 smiles at Sarita.
SARITA
You are a wise mother.
ANNIE-60
Are. Present tense?
Sarita shrugs.
ANNIE-60
My father was the wise parent, the brave parent. He loved my mother so much, but ultimately he put me above her.
SARITA
Yes, that has guided you, is guiding you still.
Sarita reaches into the swirl and stops a memory. Annie-60 hesitates, then reluctantly reaches into the memory and is swept into it.
EXT. ANNIE’S CHILDHOOD HOME, PATIO
Annie-60 swirls back into Annie-8 and sets her aglow again. Altered-Annie 8 is standing in the living room, holding her father’s hand. They are looking out at the patio where her mother is sitting regally, facing away from them.
The living room is wrecked, furniture overturned. The glass door to the patio is shattered.
Altered Annie 8 looks up at her father. She has a large bruise on her face.
ALTERED ANNIE-8
(whispers)
She didn’t mean it Daddy.
ANNIE’S FATHER
I know honey.
ALTERED ANNIE-8
She was just trying to catch a butterfly. She said it was spying on us. And she needed to protect us from the men.
ANNIE’S FATHER
She stopped taking her pills Annie, so she started seeing things that aren’t there.
ALTERED ANNIE-8
I tried to see what she saw Daddy, I really did! Does she have to go to the hospital again? I will try harder, don’t take her, please, Daddy, please! Look, she’s being good now.
ANNIE’S FATHER
I gave her a shot honey, but she needs more help then we can give her at home.
The front door opens and a young Mary-Lou rushes in and kneels next to Altered-Annie-8.
MARY-LOU-25
Annie, you ok?
Altered Annie-8 throws her arms around Mary-Lou-25. Her Father goes out to the patio and helps her mother stand up. Although dressed nicely, she is in disarray. She is still beautiful, but now zombie-like. Slowly, with love, he guides her through the living room towards the front door. Mary-lou is now standing, holding Altered Annie-8. As her mother passes her, she looks at Altered Annie-8 with heartbreakingly sad eyes. Her father mouths ‘I’m sorry’.
Annie-60 dissolves out of the scene.
INT. ALTERED STATE, CONT.
Annie returns from the scene with her mother, looking sad.
SARITA
You knew as an adult that your mother had a mental illness. But as Annie the child, the experience as you lived it, you wanted to make her better.
ANNIE-60
When I was a girl, all those times she- she, went off somewhere I couldn’t see, I couldn’t go to with her, I would think if only I had done something different. It wouldn’t have set her off. If I had made a different choice.
SARITA
That thought, that idea has never left you.
ANNIE-60
That day has always stuck in my mind. It got worse, a lot worse, but when I was in that memory I felt myself wanting to leave it, and then I was right back here.
SARITA
Yes. You were aligned in body, mind and heart. Little Annie understood at last, so you left that memory.
ANNIE-60
Is that what this is all about? Coming to some kind of understanding about my life?
SARITA
Not necessarily. Not every moment in life is a lesson, a karma. There are many, many perfectly ordinary days that are just, perfect, in their own way.
ANNIE-60
Just as it should be? Please, can I visit one of those days?
Sarita looks pensive, studying Annie as if she is determining if she is ready for something. Sarita decides, nods, then reaches her hand to the stream of memories again and stops at one scene. Annie observes, a smile growing across her face. She reaches her hand in to the memory and dissolves into Annie at 35.
INT. ANNIE AND JOE’S CABIN, KITCHEN FALL 1992
Annie-60 comes into her 35 year old self as she is in the kitchen cooking. As before, her altered self appears almost translucently overlayed over Annie-35 so she is a little grainy and glowing. Altered Annie-35 has paused in the making of a pie to look out the kitchen window. On the window sill is the spider plant.
Erin-10 and Hunter-8 are playing soccer against one another in the backyard They have set up small piles of leaves as teammates/obstacles they have to maneuver around. Their dog, SHILOH, is supposed to be the goalie, guarding a small, crooked portable net. Lots of laughter and shouting. Erin is calling out a play by play (PLACEHOLDER).
Altered Annie-35 is visibly happy to relieve this memory as she observes all, even the old familiar items like the splattered cookbook propped open, the old pie pan, etc.
Shiloh scratches at the back door and Altered Annie-35 opens it. Annie-60 tries to come out of her self to bend down and pet her pup, and we see the motion of translucent Annie-60 stretch briefly to hug her dog, but she has no mass and is pulled back into Annie-35, who continues her normal routine.
ALTERED ANNIE-35
Dinner time for the pup?
Altered Annie-35 scoops out dog food for Shiloh as usual.
ALTERED ANNIE-35
Shiloh, sit. Oh your such a good girl.
She places her bowl down, scratches her head, and returns to cooking, pausing to check on the kids, now practicing cart wheels.
The sound of a truck pulling up is audible. Altered Annie-35 glances at the time, smiles and hurries up her cooking. But Annie-60 keeps trying to turn her translucent head to look out the window. Sure enough, Joe has headed to the backyard first. Annie-60, strains to watch through the window.
ERIN-10
Daddeeey!
JOE-35
Hi, sweetie, how was school?
Joe bends over to hug Erin and Hunter immediately jumps on his back. Everyone talks at once.
JOE-35
That’s great Erin, I can’t wait to see it. In a bit buddy, let me go say hello to Mom and see if dinner is ready.
Again Annie-60’s translucent figure strains to turn towards the back door and the sound of Joe approaching as Altered-Annie-35 adds the final touch to something on the stove. Just as Joe opens the back door, Shiloh barks in excitement and jumps on the door, shutting it again. Joe laughs, a memorable deep laugh. Annie-60’s translucent figure reacts to the sound. Joe finally gets the door open and kneels to greet the very excited dog.
JOE-35
Alright girl, did you miss me, I’m right here. That’s a good girl, settle.
He rises and steps towards Altered Annie-35 who half turns from the stove, spoon in hand.
ALTERED ANNIE-35
Such a popular guy. I’m always last in the line of your admirers.
Joe reaches over to give her a one armed hug and kiss on the cheek.
JOE-35
Awe, you know you’re first with me.
ALTERED ANNIE-35
Well, I was the original member of the Joe Ryan fan club.
Annie-60’s translucent figure pulls out of Altered Annie-35 and wraps both arms around Joe’s neck and buries her face in his neck. Slowly Annie’s translucent figure pulls Altered Annie-35 into her, instead of the other way around, and the two figures merge and begin to solidify until Annie-35 is no longer grainy and glowing and they are one. She is stunned.
Annie pulls back and looks at her hands, no longer glowing. Shaking, she reaches up and cups his face in her hands and looks incredulously into his eyes.
ANNIE-35
(whispers)
I, I can feel you, I can touch you.
She kisses him quick, but hard.
ANNIE-35
Oh Joe, I’ve missed you so, so much.
-
Margaret’s Act 1
What I learned – Deleted and added scenes from my Outline, getting to know my characters! So much easier to be creative when you free yourself form wordsmithing.
MASADA MOMENT
FADE IN:
INT. PET STORE – DAY
Jabe (20’s), a gentle giant, places several lettuce leaves into an iguana’s glass cage.
The STORE MANAGER (40’s) yells across the store.
STORE MANAGER
Jabe!
He lifts the phone, signals for Jabe to answer it.
Jabe moves to answer the phone.
STORE MANAGER
You know who. Again.
He hands Jabe the phone.
STORE MANAGER
Resolve it, man. No more of this at work.
Jabe nods, takes the receiver.
JABE
Hi, mom.
(a beat)
I know. I know. I know. I’m not dad, mom. I know.
(a beat)
OK, here goes.
Jabe takes a deep breath.
JABE
I don’t want to be a doctor. I’m not going back to my pre-med classes. OK? I like my job as a veterinary assistant.
At this the Store Manager lifts his eyebrows, smirks.
Jabe catches his look, gives an embarrassed shrug, focuses once more on the phone.
JABE
I know. I know. I know. OK, we’ll talk about it later. Love you, mom.
Jabe sighs, hangs up the phone.
LOW RUMBLE
The building begins to shake.
SPLAT!
A ceiling tile hits the ground.
SCREAM!
CUSTOMERS scream, run for the exits.
Jabe reaches out to steady the snake display. A sudden jolt and he loses his grip. The display, falls, crashes. A snake slithers free.
JABE yells as he runs from the store, more from fear of the snake than the earthquake.
The store facing crumbles.
Jabe hops over fallen bricks…
…dodges the pet store sign as it falls…
…runs into the street.
EXT. PET STORE – DAY
SCREECH!
Car brakes warn Jabe. A car moves towards him, he jumps aside, car nearly misses him.
WAILS
The sidewalk and street are covered with shocked PEOPLE, crying from fear, discovered wounds. The quaking has stopped.
Jabe looks around, frozen.
SPLAT!
A chunk of plaster falls behind Jabe. He jumps, moves away from the building.
RUMBLE!
The quaking begins again. Jabe runs back to the street, struggles to keep his footing.
CRACKLE
The road splits, widens as a crevasse lengthens, moves directly towards Jabe.
He turns, attempts to run, trips, falls directly into the path of the crevasse.
EXT. OTHER WORLD – BEACH – DAY
Jabe is face down, motionless on a sandy beach.
Jabe lifts his head, spits out sand. The sound of ocean waves catches his attention.
He turns to see an expanse of water, waves gently lapping the shore.
JABE
Wha…??
RUSTLE
His attention is redirected to a baby iguana lizard moving through the sand. Jabe instinctively jerks away, only to see 5 more lizards running past him.
He jumps up.
JABE
AHHH!
He brushes off a lizard crawling up his pants leg. Lifts his head to see a snake in the distance, body twisted around a struggling baby iguana.
He watches as a group of 5 or 6 snakes lift their heads, search the beach.
A baby lizard pokes his head up through the sand. Eyes blink.
A snake slithers slowly towards Jabe and the lizard. Jabe backs up, watches in horror, shakes in fear as he avoids the darting lizards.
The baby lizard emerges from the sand, scurries, three snakes take off in pursuit. They capture the lizard, their bodies entwined into a rolling, twisting mass of snake.
Another baby lizard pokes his head up.
JABE
Run!
The lizard breaks out from the sand, oblivious to the snakes, slowly moves up the beach.
JABE
RUN!!!
The snakes move closer to the baby lizard.
Jabe shudders, leans down, and after several attempts, catches the lizard by the tail.
Jabe runs with the flailing lizard, away from the snakes, jumping over fleeing lizards.
He reaches a rock, sets the iguana down, jumps up on top of the rock, breathes heavily.
JABE
(mutters)
Gotta hit the gym.
He sits on the rock to rest, looks out at the ocean.
JABE
Not real. Not real. Not real.
Jabe hits the side of his head several times, blinks rapidly. He opens one eye.
The ocean is still there. So are the fleeing lizards…
…and the snake slithering up the rocks!
He jumps up, climbs up the rocky face of a bluff…
EXT. ROCKY BLUFF – DAY – SAME
…only to come face to face with the blinking eyes of four iguana, resting on the top of a rock. His head jerks back, they watch each other for beat.
JABE
(nervous)
Move over, guys.
Jabe pulls himself up as the lizards scatter. One more rock to go and he will be at the top of the bluff.
Jabe’s fingers grasp the top ledge of rock. He finds a foothold for a foot, pushes himself up, peers over the ledge only to see…
…three DOREK MEN frowning down at him. A shimmering aura surrounds them.
Jabe freezes, inspects the men.
JABE
Tell me this isn’t heaven.
The white-haired oldest of the three, ALO, a man who wears kindness and wisdom like a coat, shakes his head and reaches out a hand to help Jabe up.
ALO
A Hedeon on the beach at birthing? A dare, perhaps?
All Dorek are trim, not over 5’9” in height. As Jabe stands, his tall frame towers over them.
A purple aura surrounds Jabe. He tries unsuccessfully to brush the purple away.
His aura, along with his threatening size, put the Dorek men ill at ease. Jabe notices their discomfort. He shrugs, gives a nervous laugh, lifts empty hands.
JABE
Heh, just think of me as Barney.
The two Dorek men pull out odd-shaped guns.
Jabe’s aura instantly turns from purple to a pale yellow.
Alo motions for the Dorek Men to put their weapons down.
ALO
Don’t be afraid, we mean you no harm.
EXT. TOWN SIDEWALK – DAY – SAME
Jabe walks with the Dorek men, a mix of people with auras of purple, blue, gray, red, yellow, green, and the pearly shimmering of the Dorek pass them by. Jabe maintains his purple aura. Everyone else is short in stature and none are overweight.
JABE
Definitely not in Kansas.
ALO
Kansas? A area in the Hedeon sector?
JABE
I’m not from the Hedeon sector.
ALO
But you are purple? And I would know if you lived with Dorek. Where is your home, then?
Jabe turns yellow.
JABE
Not anywhere near here, wherever here is…
He looks around at the strangeness of the people. He sees a couple fighting, the man with a green aura, the woman’s red.
Jabe turns to Alo.
JABE
You wouldn’t happen to have a pair of ruby slippers would you?
ALO
You want to find a shoe store?
The Dorek men exchange glances, unsure of this strange man.
Jabe feels his head.
JABE
Delirious. Must be. But no fever.
They reach a crossroads.
ALO
Young man, do you want to go to the Hedeon or the Dorek sector?
JABE
I don’t know. I don’t recognize anything. I don’t know which direction to pick.
ALO
Thinking you can remain undecided is an illusion of the mind. Not choosing is to be. No choice is a choice.
Jabe’s yellow aura changes to blue.
JABE
I think I’m sick.
Alo nods.
ALO
Come to my home. Join us for lunch and we will see if we can make you better.
INTERIOR – ALO’S HOME – DAY
Jabe sits at a table with the Dorek men, clearly ill at ease.
Alo hands him a square box. The box is filled with liquid and has a smooth half-moon raised edge on one side. Jabe inspects it, smells it.
Alo sips his, placing his lips on the raised edge. Nods for Jabe to drink.
Jabe takes a small sip. Coughs.
JABE
Thanks. Er, what is this?
Alo looks confused at the question.
ALO
Galena? You’ve never had need of it?
JABE
No, I… I…
Jabe breaks down, his aura changing from purple to yellow to blue.
ALO
What is it, son?
Jabe hits at his aura, scratches his arms. The aura remains as his eyes fill with tears. He chokes out an answer.
JABE
I don’t know what Galena is, I don’t know who the Dorek or the Hedeon are. I don’t know why I turn purple, or yellow, or blue. I just want to go home.
Alo rests his hand on Jabe’s shoulder.
ALO
Where is home, son?
Jabe looks up, hopeful.
JABE
Whittier.
Alo cocks his head, questioning.
JABE
Whittier, California.
Alo shakes his head “no.”
JABE
L.A.?
Alo doesn’t respond.
JABE
Los Angeles?
(a beat)
Come on, everyone knows about Los Angeles.
(a beat)
Everyone?
Alo responds slowly.
ALO
This Los Angeles place is not known here. I would help you go wherever you need to go, but I could not point the way.
Jabe speaks through his tears.
JABE
O.K. Let’s start with this, then.
Jabe holds his cup up.
JABE
Galena?
ALO
A calming agent.
Jabe chugs down his drink as Imara (20’s) enters. Her purple aura matches Jabe’s after his drink.
She starts at the sight of what she thinks is a Hedeon man, her aura turns red and she slams the plate of food she carries down on the table. Her biting tongue reflects her fighting spirit. She turns an accusing eye on Alo.
IMARA
I will not go back with him! Your promises are like water on a hot day!
Alo rushes to reassure her.
ALO,
Imara, he is not Hedeon.
Jabe lifts his hands in surrender.
JABE
Not Hedeon. Not me. I don’t know what you would call me.
Imara spits her answer.
IMARA
Not welcome. No purple is welcome.
Alo clears his throat, replies gently.
ALO
Imara. All purple are welcome here. It is our greatest hope that they would all learn of and accept the Orb, as I hope you will one day.
Imara stares at Jabe.
Jabe breaks the silence.
JABE
So why are you purple?
Imara looks at Alo, confused.
ALO
We are all born that way. Weren’t you always purple?
JABE
Not until I got here, wherever here is.
Jabe addresses Imara.
JABE
Have you ever heard of Los Angeles?
Imara doesn’t speak, just shakes her head “no.”
JABE
OK then, who can tell me why people keep changing colors?
Alo smiles.
ALO
True Dorek never change. Only the Hedeon, and you apparently.
JABE
I thought you said everyone was born purple? How do you get to be a Dorek? Imara is here, why is she still purple?
Imara is tired of this dense man.
IMARA
I haven’t seen the Orb.
Jabe is overwhelmed by another wrinkle. He hums the theme song from twilight zone.
JABE
Do do do do. Do do do do.
Imara looks at him as if he is crazy.
JABE
Just saying, I mean, humming.
Jabe tries to redirect, notices the plate of food.
JABE
So, what’s for dinner?
IMARA
What do you think? Its birthing day. We are having snake.
Jabe looks as if he wished he had never asked.
JABE
Ok, then.
Alo nods to the empty chair.
ALO
Take a seat, Imara. We will eat.
Imara dishes out the snake to Alo, herself, and then Jabe.
Jabe would rather talk than eat.
JABE
So, what is this Orb thing?
Alo swallows his bite.
ALO
That is a discussion better left when not eating. Suffice it to say, those who reject the Orb are marked for death.
EXT. HEDEON SECTOR – PLAZA – DAY
The leader of the Hedeon, ARMANN (40’s), a narcissistic commanding presence, speaks to a group of Hedeon Men in the plaza of the Hedeon sector of town. His aura is red.
ARMANN
My own son asks about the Orb! The Dorek are growing too bold!
As the men murmur agreement with Armann, their aura turns from purple to red. AKUJI, with the darkest red, speaks out.
AKUJI
Why do you still try to maintain peace?
Armann faces Akuji, it is clear he dislikes the man.
ARMANN
You question me? Peace is what THEY call it. WE call it co-existing. They bring valuable supplies, trade we need in the market place! This is not about eliminating an enemy; it is about controlling them. We take the benefits, they follow our rules.
Akuji is brave but not wise.
AKUJI
They will never follow our rules.
Armann’s red color intensifies.
ARMANN
Speak again and I will do to you what you wish I did to them. Fool!
Akuji nods, backs away. A TIMID HEDEON man raises his hand. Armann nods in his direction.
TIMID HEDEON
What is it we should do?
ARMANN
Show them the truth. Intimidate them until they learn.
An energy ball of light floats down from the sky towards Armann. The men gasp, step back.
Armann ignores the ball of light.
ARMANN
It is nothing! It means nothing!!
The ball disappears.
ARMANN
You see? It holds no power over anyone!
Armann signals for the men to draw close.
ARMANN
This is what we will do…
EXT. TOWN – DAY
Jabe stands alone on the sidewalk, watching, wondering.
Armann (red aura) approaches a Dorek man.
ARMANN
You!
The UNSUSPECTING DOREK MAN notes Armann’s red aura.
UNSUSPECTING DOREK MAN
Have I done something to offend you?
ARMANN
Give me back what you stole from me!
UNSUSPECTING DOREK MAN
I’m sorry. I think you have me…
ARMANN
Give it back now or fight!
UNSUSPECTING DOREK MAN
I really think you have the…
ARMANN
Give it back, or take a swing at me.
UNSUSPECTING DOREK MAN
I won’t fight you, I don’t even know you.
ARMANN
Armann. Now you do.
The Dorek man turns away from Armann, attempts to walk away. Armann jumps in front of him and is inadvertently knocked down by the Dorek’s attempt to get away.
Jabe freezes, watches, turns yellow.
Armann screeches at the man.
ARMANN
You hit me!
Armann pulls out the same strange looking weapon he saw the Dorek men carry. He slaps his hand down on top of it and it spews a gaseous substance that covers the man.
The man’s falls to the ground, his aura gone. Dead.
Jabe watches as Armann moves down the street, calling out to a SMALL DOREK MAN. The man stops as all other Dorek in the area scatter. Jabe watches, hears Armann’s screaming.
ARMANN
Despicable Dorek!
EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF TOWN – DAY
Jabe calls out to a NERVOUS DOREK MAN who is moving towards the Dorek sector.
JABE
Have you heard of Los Angeles?
The man stops, inspects the hulking purple man before him.
NERVOUS DOREK MAN
No, I can’t say I have. Please, leave me be.
Akuji, his aura red, comes behind the Small Dorek Man, grabs him, pushes him down.
AKUJI
Is he bothering you? I thought I saw him bothering you!
Akuji kicks at the Nervous Dorek’s leg.
As Jabe shakes his “no” the Small Dorek Man attempts to stand, then falls back, moaning, holding his injured leg.
Akuji moves to strike the Small Dorek Man again. Jabe turns red, steps in between the two.
JABE
Heh, it’s all good. All good.
Akuji attempts to move around Jabe.
AKUJI
Armann’s orders.
Jabe puts out his hand to stop him. Akuji looks up at the huge man, who clearly could beat him in a fight.
JABE
Can’t we all just get along?
Akuji considers for a second, then snarls at the Dorek man before leaving.
AKUJI
He won’t always be along.
Jabe picks up the Dorek man.
EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF TOWN – DAY – SAME
A KIND HEDEON man with a purple aura sees Jabe carrying the Dorek and calls out to him.
KIND HEDEON
Hello there.
Jabe pauses, unsure of the Hedeon’s intent.
KIND HEDEON
Armann won’t take kindly to seeing you help. Better leave him to his own.
JABE
Not that kind of person.
KIND HEDEON
Well, neither am I, which is why you need to hear me out.
Jabe nods for him to continue.
KIND HEDEON
You haven’t heard? Armann cannot tolerate Hedeon who sympathize with the Dorek. You can’t align yourself with this cult, not…
(his aura turns yellow)
…not if you value your life.
Jabe turns yellow.
JABE
People just kill whoever they want here? And the police?
The Kind Hedeon is confused by the word “police.”
KIND HEDEON
I don’t know him. I do know Armann is in charge and does whatever he pleases. Just, just be careful. And if you happen to see the Orb in the Dorek sector, run!
EXT. ALO’S HOME – DAY
Jabe helps Imara as she moves sacks of food into Alo’s home. Imara’s aura is red.
IMARA
Don’t ask me about Armann! I hate him!!
JABE
Wow, didn’t mean to push that button.
IMARA
Push? What button?
JABE
Never mind.
Jabe lifts the last of the sacks onto the table.
IMARA
Are you planning on staying here?
Jabe turns blue.
JABE
I don’t know where else to go.
IMARA
Well, don’t think about joining Armann, the Hedeon can’t be trusted.
JABE
Just him, or all the Hedeon? I mean, I don’t want to offend you, but aren’t you Hedeon?
IMARA
My parents were Hedeon, if that’s what you are asking. I don’t trust them either.
JABE
You trust anybody?
Imara takes a moment to respond, then softly answers.
IMARA
Alo, yes.
Jabe looks at her kindly.
JABE
Hard life? Well, you can trust me. If I’m stuck here, I’ll need family. Want to be my sister?
INT. ALO’S HOME – KITCHEN – DAY
A calming music plays as Imara peels potatoes at the kitchen sink. A glowing ball of light floats towards Imara. She reaches out, pulls it to her chest, her aura changes to a pearly irridescent glow. Jabe secretly watches, then steps into the room to confront Imara once he sees her aura change.
JABE
Imara!! What have you done?
Imara’s aura deepens, shimmers.
IMARA
I saw it Jabe! I saw it, I accepted it!
Jabe steps up to her. Touches at her aura.
JABE
Does it hurt?
Imara laughs, throws Jabe a potato, twirls.
IMARA
I’m free, Jabe! I’m free!
Jabe tosses the potato into the sink.
JABE
Free from what?
Imara doesn’t answer, just laughs and twirls, clearly in her own world.
Jabe shakes his head, leaves her to her own joy.
INT. ARMANN’S HOME – DAY
GRIGO (7), Armann’s young son, twirls a wand with a round end, laughing, releases bubbles into the air.
Armann, purple, watches, enjoys his son’s laughter. He takes the wand from Grigo’s hand, dips into a bowl, and blows bubbles over his son’s head.
The purple boy claps at the bubbles, breaks them.
Armann picks up the bowl, inspects it.
ARMANN
Empty. Come, time to play outside.
Grigo takes Armann’s hand.
GRIGO
I wish my mother was here to play with us.
Armann is in high spirits. He looks fondly at his son.
ARMANN
I’ll send a message to her then, ask her to visit.
An exuberant Grigo hugs his father.
INT. ALO’S HOME – DAY
Alo is seated in a comfortable chair, in a comfortable room, holds a letter. Jabe stands before him, ill at ease.
JABE
You wanted to see me?
ALO
Sit. Please. I need to share something with you.
Jabe attempts to sit in a stuffed chair that matches Alo’s. The chair is too small for his large frame. He moves over to a straight back chair, no arms.
JABE
Don’t quite fit here.
ALO
But you are here. Is there another place you would seek?
JABE
I’ve asked. Everybody. It’s a running joke.
Jabe sings a ditty to the tune “Do you know the way to San Jose.”
JABE
Do you know the way to L.A.?
He stops abruptly when Alo doesn’t respond.
JABE
Had to be there, I guess.
Alo picks up the letter.
ALO
Would you like to hear?
JABE
Sure, I mean, unless it’s a map or something. Then I’d like to see it.
Alo ignores the comment. Reads from the letter.
ALO
All purple are required to return to the Hedeon sector. We will not have our own indoctrinated by your radical ways. By actively attempting to convert our young, you have given us no choice. Consider this warning seriously. All purple have two days to comply. Any above the age of 16 that have not taken residence in the Hedeon sector will be killed on sight.
Jabe shrugs.
JABE
I’m not from here, they don’t mean me.
Alo puts the letter aside. His aura intensifies.
ALO
Jabe, you are purple. You must change or leave. No choice is a choice.
Jabe stands, paces.
JABE
You can’t force me to be something I’m not. Don’t you think I would love to go back to my home? This place, this isn’t where I belong. I don’t belong with the Hedeon either.
ALO
The purple will never feel at home. Not until they accept the Orb. Then they will realize Taaba’s true purpose for their lives.
Jabe’s aura turns red.
JABE
Who said anything about the Orb? We’re not talking about the Orb! Are you kicking me out unless I accept the Orb? Is this what this is about?
ALO
This is about you, Jabe. Not wanting to choose. Not wanting to change, even if would benefit you.
JABE
You are not my mother!
Alo doesn’t understand this comment.
ALO
Nor am I Taaba. He requires you to choose.
JABE
I don’t know Taaba. He doesn’t know me. I’m not even sure there is a Taaba!
The Orb floats gently into the room. Jabe stares at it.
JABE
Is that…
ALO
…the Orb? Do you see it?
Jabe stares at the floating energy ball.
JABE
Don’t you?
ALO
I have already accepted the Orb. I feel the presence inside. If you see the Orb, then this is your opportunity to choose.
Jabe hesitates, rubs his chest but doesn’t reach out. He breaks away from the vision of the Orb, looks at the floor as his aura turns yellow. The Orb disappears.
JABE
I don’t see anything. I don’t feel anything. I don’t want to leave here if I can’t go back to Whittier, or at least to the United States.
Jabe realizes he never asked anyone about the U.S. He turns purple and lifts his head.
JABE
You gotta know where the United States is?
Alo sadly shakes his head.
ALO
You may stay here. I cannot guarantee your safety, however.
Jabe’s aura turns back to red.
JABE
So, you tell me I have a choice, but I really don’t do I? OK, Mother. I’m off to med school.
Jabe stalks out of the room.
-
Ed’s Finished Act 1
What I learned doing this assignment is that I will almost certainly have to curb my tendency to get everything right the first time, but maybe that comes from a few years of professional Technical Writing – or maybe I could have used these techniques back then!
ACT 1:
FADE IN.
INT. MARY’S WAFFLE STOP, ELKO, NEVADA – MORNING
Six men from various backgrounds sit around a table at a breakfast diner. They are DON, DIEGO, SAM, CURTIS, LEN and the leader, JOE. Most are finished eating and are enjoying coffee and conversation.
JOE
Each of you guys have new clients, and you’ve been briefed on what to expect. And we all know from experience that things always go the way we expect – he pauses for effect – about half the time. If that. There’s always something comes up that you don’t expect.
A few of them nod in agreement.
JOE
And above all, don’t reveal yourself unless it’s absolutely unavoidable. That makes things very complicated. Ask me how I know.
LEN
How do you know?
JOE
Actually, don’t ask… it’s just an expression.
LEN
Gotcha.
Joe points to Len approvingly.
JOE
Good use of slang though, very good! When someone says “Ask me how I know?” It’s just to suggest they learned something the hard way. (pause) OK, enough on how strange the English language is. Sam, where you headed this time?
SAM
Massachusetts, near the ocean. A college graduation Saturday morning.
A nosy guy at the next table has been eavesdropping. He turns to Sam and says…
NOSY GUY
It’s Thursday and there’s no way you can possibly get all the way to Massachusetts from here by Saturday morning. No way.
SAM
I have a fast motorcycle, and don’t sleep… err, much. I’ll make it.
NOSY GUY
Yeah, maybe if you go 180 and don’t get stopped by the police, which you will, I can assure you.
SAM
Nope, regular highway speeds, nothing flagrant. I’ll get there in time, no problemo.
EXT. MARY’S WAFFLE STOP – A FEW MINUTES LATER
The six leave the diner, headed for their vehicles. They make their goodbyes, and Sam heads over to a sleek Suzuki road bike, meant for all day riding at any speed. He pulls on his helmet, mounts the bike and takes off, fast and smooth.
SERIES OF SHOTS AS SAM TRAVELS ON THE HIGHWAY
— One after another he passes signs announcing he’s entered a new state. Day fades into night and night gives way to day, he continues passing such signs.
— After crossing into Pennsylvania, he pulls off the highway to stop at an ice cream stand for a cone. While there, two young children, no more than five or six, are drawn to his motorcycle, then to him (he loves children and they love him). There’s also a very guard-dog like Doberman on a leash. Sam approaches him and the dog lights up with happiness. The dog’s owner is amazed.
— Back on the road, Sam traverses Pennsylvania, the lower corner of New York, Connecticut, all signified by “Welcome To” signs. After entering Massachusetts, the signs denoting progress become more frequent. Finally he exits Rt 128 for Bowman College and turns at a sign reading “Welcome to Bowman College Commencement”. The weather is gorgeous. The parking lot is filling up, the place is abuzz with people. Sam parks his motorcycle and looks for a seat.
EXT. BOWMAN COLLEGE COMMENCEMENT – MORNING, SUNNY
DAVE CARLSON is talking with LARRY and LISA. All are dressed in cap and gown.
LARRY
So Dave, I hear you got a job offer at MegaFace! That’s awesome!
DAVE
Yeah, baby! I snagged an internship there and they liked me so much they’re putting me in their new marketing research department. Who says a degree in Anthropology won’t pay off? I got me a seat on the Space Shuttle and I’ma ride that rocket into orbit! (leans in) …and stock options when they go public. Booyah!
LISA
And you’re getting married too, right?
DAVE
Yep, Linda and I get hitched in September, then honeymoon in Vegas. It’ll be awesome!
LARRY
Hey, I admire you. Great job, beautiful bride. You’re one lucky guy!
DAVE
Luck? Luck’s got nothing to do with it. Hard work, late nights, and focus, man!
The “line up now” horn sounds, punctuating Dave’s remark.
DAVE
Whelp, gotta go. Nice talking to yah!
Dave spins and walks off. Larry calls to him as he melts into the crowd.
LARRY
Right… Well, we’ll look for your name in the papers then!
LISA
What an ass!
LARRY
Agreed. Nobody I know will miss him. We’d better go get in line.
EXT. BOWMAN COLLEGE COMMENCEMENT, GUEST SEATING AREA, SAME TIME
Sam finds a seat where he can observe the ceremony.
EXT. BOWMAN COLLEGE COMMENCEMENT, SPEAKERS PLATFORM, 20 MIN LATER.
The college Chancellor speaks.
CHANCELLOR
Now that we’ve handed out the awards, it’s time for our commencement speaker. Please welcome Massachusetts Supreme Court Judge Thomas Miller…
Cut to Dave looking impatiently at his watch and feigning interest in the speaker.
CHANCELLOR
…after which we will hand out diplomas, close with song, and you will be dismissed.
JUDGE MILLER
Greetings Bowman College graduates, parents, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters, and friends. I remember my own commencement ceremony, so I intend to be brief.
A little applause from the audience.
JUDGE MILLER
Yada, yada, blah, blah… I hope you suffer so you will see what it’s like to suffer and maybe you will become batter, etc, etc…
Cut to Dave looking even more impatient
JUDGE MILLER
…and, in conclusion, go forth into the world, do the right thing, be an adult if things don’t go your way (basically set up some good but not too obvious foreshadowing here)
DAVE (TO HIMSELF)
Finally!
INT. BACK AT DAVE’S APT, AFTER COMMENCEMENT
Dave enters, smug and full of himself, puts his diploma on the counter and picks up the three envelopes. He opens the first. Tall Pines College in Northern California offers him a full graduate scholarship and teaching fellowship. He tosses it aside. The second from MegaFace ‘regretfully’ withdrawing their offer of employment. He’s stunned. He opens the third, from his fiancé, telling him that the wedding is off and she’s gotten engaged to Dave’s old HS friend, the son of a man who owns the four largest automobile dealerships in Central Ohio. He turns the envelope over and an engagement ring falls out with a thud.
Dave goes from shocked to devastated to enraged. He flings the letters away, kicks over the wastebasket, and storms out, slamming the door as hard as he can.
EXT. IN FRONT OF DAVE’S APARTMENT
Dave snatches the For Sale sign off the Kawasaki motorcycle on the lawn, starts the engine and roars off like a rocket.
EXT. ROUTE 128, MANCHESTER, MA, NORTHBOUND – MINUTES LATER
Dave races down the highway at insane speeds, weaving in and out of traffic. He yells, screams at, and tailgates a minivan in the passing lane that won’t get out of his way fast enough. It finally moves to the middle lane only to reveal the tail end of a slow-moving truck dawdling onto the highway from a utility vehicle turnaround. Dave is literally moments from certain death with no possible escape. In a split second, another figure on a motorcycle (Sam) races past and snatches Dave off his bike just before it hits the truck and explodes in flames.
EXT. SIDE OF THE ROAD, 1 MINUTE LATER
Dave and Sam are sitting at the side of the road, joined by the family in the minivan and the driver of the truck. Everyone has a different account of what they saw, the children’s stories are most accurate, but the adults dismiss them as fanciful because they’re clearly ‘impossible’. In a moment when others are occupied…
DAVE
(confused and disoriented)
Who are you?
SAM
I’m an angel, my job is to protect you. (pats him on the shoulder) Gotta go. Don’t do this again.
Sam leaves just as the police arrive..
INT. BACK AT DAVE’S APARTMENT – FORTY MINUTES LATER
Glen has returned. He looks out the window as Dave is dropped off by a police car. Dave enters and says nothing. The letters are on the kitchen counter in front of Glen. He knows. Dave looks at Glen.
GLEN
Lotta bad news. Really bad. Sorry pal. Glad you’re ok.
Dave just stares at Glen. Glen holds up the letter from Tall Pines College.
GLEN
Maybe you should reconsider?
Dave says nothing, walks to his room and flops on the bed, exhausted.
INT. BUD’S PAWN SHOP, GLOUCESTER, MA, MID-MORNING, SUNNY
Dave enters. Behind the counter is BUD, a retired cop and keen judge of human nature. Dave puts his helmet and the engagement ring on the glass countertop.
BUD
You’re the kid who crashed your… Kawasaki was it?, on 128 the other day? Glad to see you’re ok. Cops said they thought it was a miracle.
DAVE
Can’t argue with that. Was nothing I did. I wasn’t thinking straight.
BUD
(picks up the ring)
This have anything to do with it?
DAVE
Yup. Good guess.
BUD
Pawn it or sell it? (pulls out a jewelers loupe and examines it)
DAVE
What’s the difference?
BUD
You pawn it, I lend you money and hold the ring as collateral. You pay back the money in time, you get it back. You sell it, I give you money and I own it. I can give you more if you sell it.
DAVE
I never want to see it again, so I guess I want to sell it. What about the helmet, what can I get for it?
BUD
You gonna get back on the horse?
DAVE
Haven’t decided.
BUD
Then hold on to it. It’s a good helmet and I couldn’t give you half what you paid for it. (pause) There’s one other possibility.
DAVE
What’s that?
BUD
Follow me.
Bud leads Dave past rows of shelves filled with all manner of fascinating items, then into a large room with a garage door at the opposite end. He stops at a big something under a tarp that drapes all the way to the floor. Bud stops.
BUD
A trade…
In a single smooth gesture, he sweeps the tarp off, revealing a flawlessly restored 1975 Moto Guzzi Eldorado.
Dave’s eyebrows rise in surprise and admiration.
EXT. MASS RT 2W, 2MI TO NY, MID-MORNING, SUNNY, NO TRAFFIC
A lone motorcycle approaches. It’s Dave on the Moto Guzzi. A breakup song, like the Eagles “Already Gone” or Peter, Paul & Mary’s “Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright” starts playing in the background. Dave sings along, then impulsively stands on the pegs, arms out as if flying…
DAVE
Oops, no more of that foolishness.
Dave plunks back down and resumes singing.
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