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Guinea Pigs
by Lycan Davis and Jennifer Bialecki (lycandavis75@hotmail.com)

Rated: R   Genre: Comedy   User Review:
NOT YET
RATED

Logline: Better Off Dead meets Being John Malkovich. Friends' lives are changed when they spend their spring break as human guinea pigs. "GUINEA PIGS"-A uniquely hilarious, character-driven comedy. -- Chris, Ashley, and Scott, three friends at Arizona State, participate in a laboratory study, where they are interned over their spring break. While inside the lab, each meets a series of interesting personalities and undergo different situations that end up re-shaping their lives beyond the time of the study.


This screenplay is copyrighted to its author. All rights reserved. This screenplay may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of the author.



FADE IN:

EXT. ARIZONA STATE CAMPUS GREEN - DAY
                                                            
It is a sunlit spring day. Two men, CHRIS and SCOTT, lie
down, looking through binoculars. Scott smokes a cigarette.
Chris has longer hair.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
That's one for me.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Where?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Over there. Look. See?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Okay. One more for you.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Five to two. You're fading fast.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Three.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Huh? No, it's two.
                                                            
Chris lowers his binoculars.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Five to three. White shorts,
blonde hair. That was one. Fat
girl with cargo pants was two. And
black girl in khakis makes three.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Fat girl didn't count. Her pants
were practically down around her
ankles.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
What's your point? Four of yours
were down on their hips. If I
don't get the fat girl, you get
none of those.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Okay. Fat girl counts. Consider
it a favor.
                                                            

2.

They both go back to looking through binoculars. ASHLEY, a
cute, smaller girl, approaches from behind. She looks at
them for a moment.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
What're you guys doing?
                                                            
Chris faces her.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Well, if it isn't the fox herself.
What's up?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Nothing much. You?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Could you do me a favor and turn
around?
                                                            
She turns halfway around when Scott yells.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Stop!
                                                            
He gazes at her butt with his naked eyes, then through his
binoculars.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Pah. Grannies!
                                                            
He goes back to watching the people.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
What was that?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Thong watching.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Why?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (to Chris)
Does it count if a dude's wearing
the thong?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
No.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Then why am I looking at him?
                                                            

3.

                       CHRIS
You must be gay.
      (to Ashley)
We're playing for drinks after the
study.
      (beat)
You decide to do that one with us?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Yeah. I figure it's either spend
my spring break with doing that or
watching daytime TV.
      (beat)
What's with that call in tomorrow?
How's that work?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Have you ever done a radio station
promotion where you have to be the
37th caller? It's like that. The
only difference is that instead of
number 37, they take the first
hundred and fifty callers or
however many they need for the
study.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Okay.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
What time is that?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Eleven. And I have to drop my
sister off at her boyfriend's at
about one so I'll be a little
pressed for time.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
That time of year again?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Yeah.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I get to come this time. I've
been hearing about this for two
years and have never seen.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (to Ashley)
You want to come along?
                                                            

4.

                       ASHLEY
Sure. I'll cut class for this.
      (to Scott)
How're you in? You're a chain
smoker.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Cold turkey for a week. Let's
eat.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Food court?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Food court.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (to Ashley)
You coming?
                                                            
 
EXT. ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY FOOD COURT - DAY
                                                            
A group protests for animal rights. There is a cart, filled
with vegetables. PROTEST LEADER stands in the center,
shouting.
                                                            
                       PROTEST LEADER
How far have we come? We're in
the new century, the new
millenium. Enlightened people
don't need to murder animals in
order to survive.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
He seems angry.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (to Chris)
Hold my bag.
                                                            
Scott walks into the center of the circle.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
MURDERERS! Poor Cedric. He never
had a chance.
                                                            
Scott walks to the vegetable cart and grabs a tomato.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Cedric! What did they do to you?
You couldn't even run. They just
ripped you from the vine, from
your brothers and sisters. You
            (MORE)

5.

                       SCOTT (cont'd)
were raised to be consumed. You
couldn't even fight back. How
unfair.
                                                            
He looks the leader in the eye.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
You sone of a bitch. Have you no
shame? You slaughter my poor
friend Cedric and then have the
gall to put him in a dead pile
with vegetables.
      (screaming)
He's a fruit, you fool!
                                                            
Scott sobs.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Poor Cedric. You were my friend.
It's a tragedy.
      (to crowd)
I hope you're all happy. Bullies.
                                                            
Scott returns the tomato back to the wagon and walks toward
Ashley and Chris, setting his forehead on Ashley's shoulder,
feigning crying.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Nice act.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (softly, with his
       head still buried
       in her shoulder)
I do my best.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Let's get something to eat.
                                                            
 
INT. CHRIS AND SCOTT'S HOUSE - DAY
                                                            
Living room. Chris paces, cordless phone in hand. He
stares at a clock on the coffee table. From upstairs comes
the sound of heavy sex.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Five, four, three, two, one.
                                                            
He dials the phone, hangs up, and dials it again.
                                                            

6.

                       CHRIS
Come on, come on you little bitch.
                                                            
His eyes light up.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Finally.
                                                            
He listens for a bit, then looks at the phone.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Can't complete call as dialed?
Piss off.
                                                            
Scott's bedroom. Scott lies in bed, under the covers.
THERESA cuddles up against him. She's attractive.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Is there something I'm supposed to
be doing today?
                                                            
                       THERESA
Nothing I can think of.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Okay.
                                                            
He rolls back on top of her.
                                                            
Living room. Chris is on his knees, praying.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Oh please, come on now, please.
                                                            
He pressed the button to dial, eyes shut. His eyes shoot
open and he looks, then screams at the phone.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Damn you to hell!
                                                            
 
INT. ASHLEY'S HOUSE - DAY
                                                            
Kitchen. Ashley walks to the phone, picks it up, and dials.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Hi. I'm calling for my results.
Ashley Prescott. Yes, great.
Saturday at nine? Gotcha'.
                                                            
She hangs up and walks away, humming a tune.
                                                            
 

7.

INT. CHRIS AND SCOTT'S HOUSE - DAY
                                                            
Living room. Chris lies on the floor, conceding defeat. His
eyes are shut. He dials. His eyes pop open and he sits
upright.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Hello?
      (pause)
Yes!
                                                            
He smiles.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I'm calling for my results. Chris
Fieldman.
      (pause)
Great news. See you then.
                                                            
The noise from upstairs resumes. He looks up with disdain.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Oh, you idiot.
                                                            
He runs out of the room.
                                                            
Upstairs hallway. Chris approaches a door and starts to
knock.
                                                            
                       THERESA (os)
Oh God, you wild stallion.
                                                            
He pauses, wrinkles his nose, then knocks. There is a sound
of bumbling. The door opens and Scott, wrapped in a sheet,
glares at Chris.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
What do you want?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Lab call in.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Oh crap.
                                                            
He slams the door.
                                                            
Scott's bedroom. Scott moves across the room, grabs his
cell phone and a pack of cigarettes, and sits on the bed. He
lights a cigarette. From his expression, he gets through.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Thank God for speed dial.
                                                            

8.

He looks at the ciagarette, then hands it to Theresa.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Here, hold this for me.
      (into phone)
Hello. I'm calling about the
study. Scott McPherson. Okay.
                                                            
He hangs up the phone and grabs the cigarette. Theresa leans
forward, against his back, and kisses him on the ear.
                                                            
                       THERESA
In?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Huh? Oh yeah, I'm in.
                                                            
                       THERESA
When?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Saturday.
                                                            
He gets out of bed.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
And I'm going to the desert
tonight, so I won't be able to
hang out.
                                                            
She looks dejected.
                                                            
                       THERESA
Oh, okay.
                                                            
 
EXT. DESERT - DAY
                                                            
A car drives throught the desert. Chris drives. His
sister, NITA, sits in the shotgun seat. She is a young
adult. In the back seat sit Scott and Ashley.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
How long has he been up there?
                                                            
                       NITA
Two years. Ooh, I can't wait. Oh,
and did I show you this?
                                                            
She produces and opens a ring box, holding it out so Chris
can see it.
                                                            

9.

                       CHRIS
Would you take a look at that?
That's a heck of a rock you got
there, sis.
                                                            
                       NITA
Yip, yip. I'm gonna propose
again. He's got to say yes this
time, right?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I'm sure he'd say yes without the
ring, but I don't see how he can
say no this time.
      (beat)
You know, I worry about you when
you go up there.
                                                            
                       NITA
And I worry about you whenever you
go into that lab. I mean, testing
drugs and all. What happens if
you come out of there with an
extra eye. That'd scare the
beshebees out of me. Seriously.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
What do you guys do when you're up
there?
                                                            
                       NITA
Mostly cuddle and watch Saved By
the Bell reruns. Ooh, here's the
turnoff.
                                                            
The car pulls off the road and up to a silver metallic pod
on the ground. It has a shaft leading up through the
clouds. The four get out. Nita and Chris move to the trunk
while Ashley and Scott stare into the sky.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
You see it?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
No. You?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Gotta be up there somewhere.
                                                            
Nita and Chris move past them, each carrying a giant duffel
bag. Nita has put on a scuba tank.
                                                            

10.

                       NITA
Punky's at Tracy's for the week.
Remember to feed him three times a
week and only soft food once every
two weeks or he gets the poops.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Okay, sis.
                                                            
                       NITA
And the check for NASA is by my
phone. They'll leave a message
when it's due. Don't forget. We
need oxygen, you know.
                                                            
She punches a code into a keypad and the door opens. Both
bags are tossed inside.
                                                            
                       NITA
And email me after you've paid so
I know to keep my eyes open for
them.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Will do, Nitster.
                                                            
She gives him a big hug.
                                                            
                       NITA
I'm so excited.
                                                            
She steps inside the capsule and turns to face Chris.
                                                            
                       NITA
I love you a bunch, bro'. Now do
me a favor and get a haircut and a
real job by the next time I see
you.
                                                            
She puts the scuba breather into her mouth and closes the
door. The capsule ascends into the air, lifted by the
shaft. Ashley and Scott join Chris as he stares up.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Six months?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Six months.
                                                            
He starts to walk back to the car.
                                                            

11.

                       SCOTT
Okay, so let's get this straight.
Your kid sister wins the lottery,
She invests it in the stock market
and hits it huge. With the money,
she buys a satellite and keeps her
boyfriend up there?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
That's about the crux of the
situation.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
And you're here worrying about
money? Being a guinea pig for
chump change? Has it ever
occurred to you to ask her for
some? I mean, she has more than
she'll ever spend, right?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I come out here twice a year
because it's what she wants. I
don't ask her for money because,
if I did, she would give it to me
without a second thought. And I
can't do that to my sister.
                                                            
Chris turns and stares up.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
You must really love her.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
That's an understatement.
                                                            
He wipes away a tear.
                                                            
 
EXT. LAB PARKING LOT - DAY
                                                            
Ashley, Chris, and Scott walk through the lot. Each carries
either a suitcase or a duffle bag. Chris also has an
acoustic guitar case. Ashley reads a packet of papers.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
What's a fecal sample?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
That's where they give you a
little stick and you have to
scrape a sample of your fecal
material, also known as shit, your
pinched loaf, a floating log, and
            (MORE)

12.

                       SCOTT (cont'd)
other wonderful titles. What they
do with it after you give it to
them, I can't help you with that.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
You lie.
      (to Chris)
Right?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
It's just a quick thing. Not very
messy at all.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Twelve days.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
You can't hold it in that long.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
I can sure as hell try.
                                                            
She walks past the two.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
This could be entertaining.
                                                            
 
INT. LABORATORY - DAY
                                                            
The three move into a large room. People stand in lines.
SHANNON, an attractive woman, sits at a computer by the
door. She chats with people as they check in with her,
putting an arm band on each before they move into the room.
Behind her is a man in a lab coat going through a pile of
bags.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (to Chris)
What's he doing?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Checking for contraband and such.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
What's he do if he finds anything?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Depending on how bad it is, I
guess anywhere from confiscating
it to kicking a person off the
study. Why do you ask?
                                                            

13.

                       SCOTT
Be right back.
                                                            
He leaves the room.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
You think?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Yeah. He's an idiot.
                                                            
TONY is in another line.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Is that TV man?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Yeah, that's Tony. Don't let him
see Scott.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
You don't think he's still mad at
him, do you?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
If somebody extorted you on live
TV and you lost a million dollars
as a result, how long would you
hold a grudge?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Good point. He's still cute.
                                                            
                       SHANNON
Well, well, well. Look who's
back. No job yet?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I don't interview well, beautiful.
                                                            
                       SHANNON
Flattery will get you everywhere.
Hold out your hand, dear.
                                                            
Five minutes later. Scott re-enters the room. He quickly
passes through Shannon and hands off his bag, looking at his
arm band. He joins Chris and Ashley, who are waiting in a
line.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (to Chris)
What does 'alt' mean?
                                                            

14.

                       CHRIS
Huh?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
On my arm band. It says alt. What
does it mean?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Oh, that means that you're an
alternate. Alternate three, to be
more specific.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
What does that mean?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Well, it means that you're
basically an insurance policy and,
barring three people dropping off
this study, you will be sent home
in about two or three days.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I still get my money, right?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
They give you about three hundred
dollars.
                                                            
Scott grabs Chris by the shirt and pulls him close.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Are you telling me that I gave up
weed for about a month and might
only have a lousy three hundred
dollars to show for it?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Dude, you have paper in your
teeth. Don't tell me that you ate
your cigarettes.
                                                            
Scott lets him go and licks his teeth.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Why didn't you just throw them
away?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Or flush them?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Or take them back to the car?
                                                            

15.

                       SCOTT
They watch those things. They
watch it all and they listen, too.
                                                            
He walks back to his spot in line.
                                                            
 
INT. LAB BUNK AREA - DAY
                                                            
Each bunk is a seven foot square cubicle with a bunk bed and
a curtain drawn across the door. Many sit in rows. PHILLIP
lies on the bottom bunk of one cubicle, listening to
headphones. Chris enters. Phillip sits up.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Hi.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Hey.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
I took the bottom bunk. Hope
that's alright because I can take
the top if you want.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
No, that's okay. I'll take the
top. I'm Chris.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Phillip.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Nice to meet you. Whatcha'
listening to?
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
New Ghetto Groove All-Stars. It's
really good. Want to listen?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
That's okay. Maybe later. I'm
going to watch some TV.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Okay. Enjoy yourself.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #1 - DAY
                                                            
There are three areas in the lab that surround an outdoor
courtyard. Each area has a door to the courtyard, a big
screen TV, bunks, several rows of seats, a pool table at one

16.

end, and several tables and chairs for playing board games.
Each area also has an adjacent processing station. MEG sits
in one of the seats. Scott gives her a shoulder rub as she
watches television.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
So yeah, this is my first time.
You?
                                                            
                       MEG
Yeah, me too. I don't like blood
draws so I'm not looking forward
to that too much.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Oh, there's no reason to worry
about those.
                                                            
BOBBY, a tall skinny man with a mohawk, sits on the other
side of Scott. He taps him on the shoulder, staring
intently at him.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Oh hey.
                                                            
He ignores Bobby, who again taps him.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Can I help ya', chief?
                                                            
                       BOBBY
If you touch her any more than you
are right now, I will kill you.
                                                            
                       MEG
Oh Bobby, it's alright.
                                                            
Scott stops rubbing and looks at her, then back at Bobby,
who smiles wide and nods.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I've got to go. Catch you later.
                                                            
He walks away. Bobby sits beside Meg. Scott passes Chris.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Hey, what's up?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Hmmph.
                                                            
He exits into the courtyard.
                                                            
 

17.

EXT. COURTYARD - DAY
                                                            
The courtyard is concrete with several benches. The roof is
open. TONYA crouches on a bench. Scott approaches her.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
You're one of mine, aren't you?
                                                            
                       TONYA
And what are you?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
You know. Cold turkey tribe. Same
here. My girlfriend doesn't
smoke. It's a pain.
                                                            
                       TONYA
You mean a turd like yourself can
find somebody who will give them
the time of day?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
So, you're bitter. Nice that one
so small minded can come up with a
retort so witty. No matter.
You'll be gone long before I am.
                                                            
                       TONYA
As if it's not bad enough I had to
quit for this thing, they're
sending me home in three days.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Number four, eh? I'm number
three. If we can get four people
off, we can both stay.
                                                            
                       TONYA
Yes. That would make it all worth
it.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - DAY
                                                            
Chris sits and half watches a movie. Ashley sits and
punches him in the arm.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
So, what's there to do here for
fun?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
You're looking at it.
                                                            

18.

A lab employee, DANIEL, walks by.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
No job yet?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
They keep wanting me to wake up
early.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Why don't you introduce me to TV
man?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
You sure you want to meet him?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Yes, I am.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Okay. Just promise not to mention
Scott.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Oh, I'll try.
                                                            
Both move into the direction of Area #3. They pass BUFFY
and BIFF. Each speaks into a cell phone.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
      (Into phone, to
       Biff)
Oh yeah and then she said they
broke up last year and I was like,
don't go there.
                                                            
                       BIFF
      (Into phone, to
       Buffy)
Those crazy Chis. They'll say
anything.
                                                            
Ashley and Chris have to move to the side to avoid the two.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Oops. Excuse me.
                                                            
Buffy and Biff stop.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
      (into phone)
Oh God. Some people need to learn
manners.
                                                            

19.

                       BIFF
      (into phone)
Really.
                                                            
They walk away. Ashley balls up her fists and starts
walking after them. Chris grabs her.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Let me go.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Don't you want to meet TV man?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Oh yeah.
                                                            
They resume walking to Area #3.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #3 - DAY
                                                            
Ashley and Chris enter and walk past TAN, an ancient Chinese
man. He plays OTHELLO with Phillip.
                                                            
                       TAN
Your moves are those of a fool.
                                                            
He flips seven white to black.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Well, I've never played before.
                                                            
                       TAN
Does the ocean ask for forgiveness
from the beach?
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Huh?
                                                            
Phillip flips three pieces. Tan flips four and wins.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
That was fun. Play again?
                                                            
                       TAN
I'd rather eat glass.
                                                            
Phillip laughs nervously and stares at Tan, who sits in
silence. Tony sits with Ashley and Chris.
                                                            
                       TONY
So yes, there I was, antique in
hand, and they laughed at me.
                                                            

20.

                       ASHLEY
Really?
                                                            
                       TONY
Yes, can you believe it? It was a
thirty year old toaster and he
gave me this arrogant sneer. Then,
he had the audacity to open it and
accuse me of using it to make
breakfast that morning.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Some people.
                                                            
                       TONY
Exactly. But that was the
thirteenth time I was on
television.
      (to Chris)
And didn't I see your roomy around
here? Oh, don't worry. I don't
hold grudges.
      (to Ashley)
I find it to be rather
uncivilized. Don't you agree?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Completely.
                                                            
The intercom sounds. Everyone in the building can hear it.
INTERCOM VOICE is a flat-pitched woman's voice.
                                                            
                       INTERCOM VOICE
All study participants. All study
participants. Please make your
way up to the cafeteria for
orientation.
                                                            
All participants move up the stairs.
                                                            
 
INT. CAFETERIA - DAY
                                                            
Ashley, Chris, and Tony sit around a table, Chris saving a
chair. Several laboratory employees stand at the head of
the room: CHARLES, STACY, TAMI, and RUSSELL, a larger man
with short, cropped blonde hair and psychotically bugging
eyes. LUCINDA paces in front of the group. Scott and Tonya
walk by.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (to Scott)
Hey dude.
                                                            

21.

Scott grunts and walks by. Chris removes his foot from the
chair, which is taken by Phillip. Scott and Tonya sit at an
empty table, by Tan. He gives no acknowledgement to their
presence, as they don't to his. Tonya stares around.
                                                            
                       TONYA
We must find the weak links.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I see so many prospects. You?
                                                            
                       TONYA
Enough. So, where to start?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I'm still working on that one.
                                                            
                       TAN
If you listen, it will be obvious.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
What was that?
                                                            
                       TAN
If you listen, it will be obvious
where to begin.
                                                            
                       TONYA
He makes sense.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I agree. What shall we listen
for?
                                                            
                       TAN
Listen for the cry of he who
screams alone.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
You mean those who are here on
their own? Without friends.
                                                            
                       TONYA
It makes perfect sense.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Thank you stranger.
                                                            
Five minutes later. Lucinda has started to speak.
                                                            
                       LUCINDA
You are not employees of the lab.
We like to think of you as paid
and voluntary inmates. In two
            (MORE)

22.

                       LUCINDA (cont'd)
days, before dosing, we will
randomly draw names of the
participants. After the drawing,
we will release any alternates. At
that time, we will sequester you
to your assigned area for the
remainder of the study. You will
not be allowed to have any further
contact with the other groups.
Then, we will dose you. After
dosing, you will be poked and
prodded. We will run you through
a battery of tests to determine
how the product affects you and
your system. The product you will
be testing is.
                                                            
She reaches into a bag and pulls out three spray cans.
                                                            
                       LUCINDA
Superstar in a can. One group
will be testing diva in a can,
another wigga in a can, the third
will get boy band in a can. The
spray will be administered and you
will be watched for seven days.
During the study, we will be
taking blood, fecal, and urine
samples.
                                                            
She holds up a specimen cup, a card, and a little wooden
stick.
                                                            
                       LUCINDA
If you need to go to the bathroom,
find an associate and they will
give you a cup or card and stick,
depending on your needs. Get a
sample and give it to them. If
you have any questions, please be
sure to ask any associate and
they'll answer them to the best of
their abilities. You eat tomorrow
at eight. After that, you will
have vitals and bloodwoork. If an
anomaly turns up, you might be
released. I will see you after
breakfast. Good night.
                                                            
The crowd rises and moves toward the stairs. Tan walks with
Tonya and Scott.
                                                            

23.

                       TAN
Sit with me at breakfast and I
will make all clear to you.
                                                            
 
INT. LADIES BUNK AREA - NIGHT
                                                            
Ashley is in her bunk. Meg is her bunk mate. Both are
dressed for bed.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
You and your friend are a cute
couple.
                                                            
                       MEG
Oh we're not dating.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Really?
                                                            
                       MEG
No, he's just a real good friend.
More like a brother, actually. Met
me at a show and, well, neither of
us has sibling, so we adopted one
another.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
That's so sweet.
                                                            
                       MEG
He looks out for me. The only
reason he's doing this study is
because I was nervous.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Wow.
                                                            
                       MEG
His girlfriend doesn't really
understand. She got mad at him.
It'll cool down, I'm sure. What
about that guy you're with?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Which one? You mean TV guy? He's
alright.
                                                            
                       MEG
Is he the one with the long hair?
                                                            

24.

                       ASHLEY
No no, that's Chris. He's just a
friend. We tried dating once and
realized that we're much better
suited to be friends.
                                                            
                       MEG
I don't think he's my type, but he
is cute, in a grungy sort of way.
                                                            
Meg rises.
                                                            
                       MEG
I need to find a card and stick
and make a deposit. I'll see you
in the morning.
                                                            
She leaves. Ashley lies on the bottom bunk, closing her
eyes. They bolt open and her hands to go her abdomen.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
No no no no no!
                                                            
She gets out of bed, hands on her abdomen, eyes closed.
After several moments, she takes a deep breath and lies
down.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - DAY
                                                            
Morning. There is a row of chairs with participants
sitting, waiting to have their blood pressure taken. Tonya
sits on the end with a cuff around her arm. Daniel watches
a monitor and writes on a clipboard. Scott stands nearby.
Daniel pulls off the cuff and moves on to Buffy. Tonya
rises and walks over to Scott.
                                                            
                       TONYA
What are you waiting for?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I've got a great idea. Come with
me.
                                                            
KELVIN, a heavy set black man, sits beside Chris.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
So, the way I see it, if I want to
watch that movie, I'm gonna watch
that movie. I gotta be in here,
ain't nobody gonna tell me what
movie I gotta watch. If I gotta
watch a movie I don't wanna watch,
i'm gonna go psycho on somebody.
            (MORE)

25.

                       KELVIN (cont'd)
Know what I mean, dog?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Uh, yeah.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
Because there's nothing worse than
having to sit through a movie you
don't like. You ever seen that
movie George of the Jungle?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
No, never saw that one.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
Well, I had to sit through that
one the last time I was in here. I
almost went psycho, but I was new.
Didnt' want to be outta line, if
you know what I mean.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Yeah, I see.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
Then, after that, I had to watch
Showgirls. You ever seen that
one?
                                                            
Ashley sits by MINDI, a middle aged, heavy set woman.
                                                            
                       MINDI
New here?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Um, yeah.
                                                            
                       MINDI
Fresh meat.
                                                            
She chuckles.
                                                            
                       MINDI
Stick by me, kid. I'll show you
around some. Make your stay an
enjoyable one.
                                                            
 
EXT. COURTYARD - DAY
                                                            
Scott looks in the window. Tonya sits on a bench.
                                                            

26.

                       TONYA
You see one yet?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Calm down. We need to pick
precisely. Like this guy.
                                                            
                       TONYA
The one with the moustache?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
No. I'll take him. I'm talking
beside. him.
                                                            
                       TONYA
Oh, the fat guy?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Yeah. He'll be easy. Next will
be that cowboy.
                                                            
                       TONYA
The toothless one?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Yeah.
                                                            
                       TONYA
That gives us three. Who else?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
The scrawny guy, the one with
glasses. I think his name is
Phillip. You're up.
                                                            
She stands in front of the window, with her back to it.
                                                            
                       TONYA
Give the word.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Cuff is on. Button pushed. Now!
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - DAY
                                                            
MARK is getting his blood pressure taken. Through the
window, Tonya crouches down, exposing a black thong bikini.
Mark's pulse goes mad.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
Awww, dude. Sorry. You fail.
                                                            

27.

Mark stands and points out the window.
                                                            
                       MARK
But, but.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
Hey, it's alright. These things
happen. Next!
                                                            
Stacey and Charles show up and each takes an arm, leading
Mark away.
                                                            
 
EXT. COURTYARD - DAY
                                                            
                       SCOTT
One down, three to go.
                                                            
                       TONYA
Your boy is up.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - DAY
                                                            
Daniel puts the cuff on FRANCIS and presses a button. This
time, on the other side of the window, Scott crouches down,
exposing a white thong bikini. Frnacis's pulse goes wild.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
We seem to be in a rut here.
                                                            
                       FRANCIS
Excuse me. I must protest.
                                                            
Daniel motions to Russell, who puts Francis in a chicken
wing, leading him out.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
Don't mess with the authority.
                                                            
He slaps him in the back of the head.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #1 - DAY
                                                            
Chris watches TV. Ashley enters and sits beside him.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
That bull dyke just said she was
going to make love to me.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Yeah?
                                                            

28.

                       ASHLEY
And I think she meant it.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Can I watch?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
It's not funny.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Why are you so worried? It's not
like you'll see her after we get
out and I don't think she'll try
to do anything here. This isn't
prison.
                                                            
Mindi walks by with LISA, a cute, petite blonde, and MOLLY
following. She looks at Ashley, makes a kissing gesture,
winks, and continues on. Ashley yelps and wraps her arms
around Chris, then grabs her abdomen.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Nooo.
                                                            
She takes deep breaths, eyes shut.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
You're going to have to go
eventually and when you do, you'll
have to dig around in your own
poop. Just give it up and do it
already.
                                                            
She shakes her head and sits. Scott and Tonya walk by.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Don't be worried. Cowboy went
peacefully. Another will surely
follow.
                                                            
                       TONYA
I can't believe that skinny boy
didn't bite for either of us.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Not even when I slapped your ass.
But he will. Just remember, we
still have a day, and there are so
many things that can happen in a
day.
                                                            

29.

                       TONYA
I'm going to take a nap and worry
about this later. See ya'.
                                                            
She moves into the bunks. Tan sits at a table with an
Othellow board in front of him. Scott approaches. Tan
doesn't look up, gesturing to the empty seat.
                                                            
                       TAN
Please sit. Play.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Okay.
                                                            
 
INT. LADIES BUNK AREA - DAY
                                                            
Tonya lies in her bunk. Mindi, Molly, and Lisa enter. Each
speaks like a suburban house wife.
                                                            
                       MOLLY
So yeah. He better remember to
pick the kids up from day-care.
After all, they're his children
too.
                                                            
                       LISA
Yeah, men. Sometimes I wonder why
we marry them.
                                                            
                       MINDI
Tell me about it.
                                                            
They all look at Tonya. Mindi moves forward.
                                                            
                       MINDI
Fresh meat.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #1 - DAY
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
So, what else was he on?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Dude was on COPS, Hollywood
Squares, the news about fifty
times. Why don't you ask him
yourself?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
No need to if I can get it from
you. When I ask him, I'll know if
he's lying. So cough it up, what
            (MORE)

30.

                       ASHLEY (cont'd)
else?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
What does it matter? I'm sure
he's got other things to him than
his silly stretching of his
fifteen minutes of fame.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Well, do you know anything else
that you can tell me?
                                                            
Chris thinks for a moment.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Well, he was also on.
                                                            
Molly and Mindi run, from the bunks, to Charles, Russell,
and Tami. They speak and the three associates move into the
bunk area.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
What's that?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Maybe somebody puked.
                                                            
Charles and Russell drag Tonya out of the bunk area. Tami
comes out, consoling Lisa, who cries and holds her eye.
                                                            
                       LISA
And then, she said I was her bitch
and she now owned me.
                                                            
Tami pats her on the back. Scott looks up from his game and
sees Tonya being led out.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (shouting)
Nooooo!
                                                            
He jumps up and runs to her. Daniel steps in his way. Each
reaches toward the other, wearing pathetically desperate
looks on their faces.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
My love! Wait for me on the
outside.
                                                            
                       TONYA
Ummmm, no.
                                                            

31.

She's led out. Scott turns away, crying. He sees Phillip
and his eyes bug out. He stomps over to him.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (softly, to
       Phillip)
This is your fault! Why couldn't
you just leave?
                                                            
Scott walks back to Tan.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I think it's best not to know what
just happened.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Yeah, yeah, you're right. You've
got to be right.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
She's gone.
                                                            
                       TAN
She'll wait for you.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
She said that she won't.
                                                            
                       TAN
Play the game and know your love
awaits.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - DAY
                                                            
Meg, Kelvin, and Bobby sit in the second row, watching a
movie. Kelvin points at the TV.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
Now this, this is art. You got a
woman and a man totally in love.
You gots to be loving that.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Dude, the movie.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
Oh yeah.
                                                            
Biff and Buffy walk by, still talking on phones.
                                                            

32.

                       BIFF
      (into phone)
Oh yeah, then he barfed. All over
the kitchen.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
      (into phone)
Really?
                                                            
                       BIFF
And I was like, I'm not picking
this up.
                                                            
They sit in the front row, still talking at a high volume.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
Really. I mean, what did they
expect you to do?
                                                            
                       BIFF
Totally, so I found some frosh
and made them do it.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
That's what they're there for.
                                                            
Bobby looks at Meg, then Kelvin. Both appear disturbed.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Shall I?
                                                            
                       MEG AND KELVIN
      (Emphatically)
Yes!
                                                            
Bobby leans forward and taps Biff and Buffy on the
shoulders.
                                                            
                       BIFF
Then they started complaining and
I had to show them who was boss.
Believe me, they weren't at the
next party.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
Well, you'd think they'd know
their roles by now.
                                                            
Bobby looks at Meg and Kelvin, then back at the duo.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Ahem.
                                                            

33.

                       BUFFY
      (into phone)
One second.
      (to Bobby)
Excuse me, but I'm talking on the
phone. This isn't cheap, you
know? Whatever you want to say
will have to wait until we're
done.
                                                            
She faces back forward and continues talking. Bobby looks
back. Kelvin rises and joins him.
                                                            
                       KELVIN AND BOBBY
Ahem.
                                                            
                       BIFF
      (into phone)
Hang on a second.
      (to Bobby and
       Kelvin)
What?
                                                            
                       BOBBY
I'm not going to go into how silly
you both look, but we're trying to
watch a movie.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
Yeah, and we all know just how
important your conversation is as
we've heard every word of it for
the last minute.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Exactly. And now we're missing
more of the movie because we have
to ask you to either keep it down
or move on.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
Yeah, because the important part
is coming up and I don't think you
want to be here talking when that
scene arrives.
                                                            
                       BIFF
      (into phone)
Let's go outside. I need some
sun.
                                                            
They each rise.
                                                            

34.

                       BUFFY
      (into phone)
Yeah, sun is nice.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
      (into phone)
And did I tell you about the beach
party at the Delta house?
                                                            
The conversation fades out as they walk away. Kelvin and
Bobby give one another a hi-five and sit.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
That's what I'm talking about.
Now, let's see how it works out
for lil' Cammie.
                                                            
                       INTERCOM VOICE
All study participants, please
report to area three for blood
draw.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #3 - DAY
                                                            
There is a line or participants in the lab area. Chris and
Ashley stand about halfway from the front of the line.
Phillip is in front of them.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
      (to Chris)
Word from the front says Pam's
drawing.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Dear God. Do you mean?
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Yes, pass it back.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Who's Pam?
                                                            
Chris stares through her.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Pam the Butcher. Pass it on. The
old-timers will know. The newbies
will learn soon enough.
                                                            
He crosses himself. The door opens and PAM, a rolly polly
middle aged woman with a kind face stands, tourniquet in
hand.
                                                            

35.

                       PAM
Okay kids. Let's get going.
                                                            
The line starts to move into the room, one at a time. The
first person enters. The line waits in silence. A blood
curdling screams comes from the room. The scream continues.
Kelvin moves, from line, slowly, pointing. Charles steps
in his way.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
I think you should get back in
line.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
But...but...the man.
                                                            
Russell steps over as well and glares down at Kelvin.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
Didn't you hear him? Back in
line.
                                                            
Kelvin gets back in line. The screams fade. A second door
opens and a man steps out, holding a blood soaked cotton
ball to his arm and sobbing. Pam steps into the doorway.
                                                            
                       PAM
Next.
                                                            
Scott stands beside Tan.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Don't you worry?
                                                            
                       TAN
What is there to worry about? I
have my center and cannot be hurt
by that needle.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
You mean?
                                                            
                       TAN
Yes, my son, the game. It is
everything.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I see.
                                                            
 

36.

INT. PROCESSING STATION #3 - DAY
                                                            
Chris enters and sits. There are two seats, one on each
side of a table. Phillip, clutching a giant blood soaked
bandage to his arm, cries like a baby as he leaves the room.
Pam's face lights up. He watches her closely.
                                                            
                       PAM
Chris! Still no job?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
No Pam. No job yet.
                                                            
She puts a tourniquet on his arm.
                                                            
                       PAM
Well, something will happen. I'm
sure of it. By the way, did I
tell you that my son is single
now?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I'm not gay, Pam.
                                                            
                       PAM
You're not? I must have confused
you with another person here.
                                                            
She swabs alcohol on his arm and puts her finger on the cook
of his elbow as she stares at the ceiling.
                                                            
                       PAM
Now who would that be that I knew
who was perfect for my son?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I have no idea, Pam.
                                                            
                       PAM
Well, I'm sure it'll come to me.
You have tough veins to find,
right?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Actually, there's a hole in my arm
that they've been using all study,
Pam.
                                                            
                       PAM
Well, we don't want to always be
hitting the same hole, right?
                                                            

37.

                       CHRIS
I have no problem with that, Pam.
                                                            
                       PAM
Now, now. Who's the professional
here?
                                                            
She giggles and slides the needle into his arm. He clutches
at the table with his free hand.
                                                            
                       PAM
Oh pooh, I missed. Here, let me
do a little adjustment.
                                                            
She pulls the needle half out and jams it back in.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #3 - DAY
                                                            
In line, some weep, some wear nervous expressions. Ashley
stands by Tony. Bobby holds Meg. Nobody talks.
                                                            
                       CHRIS (os)
      (screaming)
OH DEAR SWEET JESUS!!! THE
PAIN!!! I DON'T WANT TO LIVE!!!
                                                            
Ashley hugs Tony tightly. He pats the back of her head. She
weeps, burying her head in his chest.
                                                            
                       TONY
Shhh, it's alright.
                                                            
She pulls her head away.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
He was the strong one. If he
screams, what does that mean for
us?
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #1 - DAY
                                                            
Scott plays Othello with Tan. Chris walks by and watches
them for a second. They ignore him.
                                                            
                       TAN
Every move, a new chapter.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I'm starting to understand.
                                                            

38.

                       TAN
Soon, you will see more.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (to Scott)
Hey bro', let's play some pool
before they separate us.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I'm playing. Can't you see that?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
You've been playing all day.
                                                            
                       TAN
Many will try to come between you
and the game.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I see that now, master.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Do you even hear yourself? It's
just a game.
                                                            
                       TAN
The game is everything.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Can you hear that? The game, it's
everything!!
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Never mind. I'll play with
Ashley.
                                                            
He walks away.
                                                            
                       TAN
Your strength is growing.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
You are the measuring stick.
                                                            
Tan smiles. Charles and Tami approach him from behind.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
Excuse us, Tan. We got your
bloodwork back.
                                                            
                       TAMI
It seems that we have a problem.
                                                            

39.

Tan still smiles.
                                                            
                       TAN
      (to Scott)
I believe I will have to be going
now.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
No, you can't.
                                                            
Tan rises. Scott reaches out.
                                                            
                       TAMI
We found marijuana in your sample.
You were clean when you came in.
It's odd.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
You'll have to come with us.
                                                            
Scott rises.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
No. How's that possible. He's
been sitting here since the study
started.
                                                            
He stares into Tan's eyes.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I need to know how.
                                                            
                       TAN
You are ready, my son. The game
is yours.
                                                            
Tami leads him away. Scott tries to run to him. Charles
stands in his way.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
Let him go.
                                                            
Scott reaches toward Tan.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Nooooooooo!
                                                            
Scott sobs. Charles walks away. Phillip approaches.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Hey. What's up? Want to play?
                                                            
Scott glares at him.
                                                            

40.

                       SCOTT
You! How dare you suggest I
defile the board with you! Be
gone!
                                                            
He feigns striking Phillip, then stares at the game board.
He picks it up, hugging it to himself, spilling game pieces
everywhere. He sobs silently.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Why? Oh why?
                                                            
He bawls, clutching the board to his chest, as he sulks back
to the bunk area.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - DAY
                                                            
It's early morning. Shannon, Stacy, and Daniel stand,
clipboards in hand, as the participants approach. They
speak and point in a particular direction for each, who then
move in the direction pointed, either area #1, #2, or #3. We
can't hear what they say. Bobby and Meg approach together.
Something is said. Meg's face shows immediate
disappointment. She gives him a tight hug. He hugs back.
Ashley comes to her side and leads her away into area #3.
Biff and Buffy approach, still talking to one another on
phones. They approach the three, then move in opposite
directions.
                                                            
                       INTERCOM VOICE
All study participants. Proceed
to area two to receive your study
assignments. Bring all your
property. Further instructions
will be given there.
                                                            
Scott enters, still clutching the Othello board tightly to
his chest. Chris approaches.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Hey bro'. I'm in one. You got
your assignment yet?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Huh? No.
                                                            
Chris slowly reaches for the board.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Dude, this isn't healthy. Get rid
of this thing.
                                                            

41.

Scott jumps, pulling the board away.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
No! Get your hands away. He said
you wouldn't understand. He told
me.
                                                            
He glares and walks away. Chris moves to area one.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #1 BUNK AREA - DAY
                                                            
Chris walks into a bunk and sets his bags on the top bunk.
Again, Phillip is in the bottom bunk, wearing headphones. He
looks up.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Roomies again, eh?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Guess so.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
You want to hear this cd now?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Rain check.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Chris leaves.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #3 - DAY
                                                            
Tony and Meg play pool Ashley stands nearby.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Really?
                                                            
                       TONY
Then, both wrestlers and the ref
started beating the crap out of
me. It was crazy. I recorded it
all.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
I'd love to see it sometime.
                                                            
                       MEG
Would you shoot, already?
                                                            
                       TONY
Oh, sorry.
                                                            

42.

He takes a shot and misses.
                                                            
                       TONY
You want to play winner?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
No. I think I'll nap for a bit.
Do me a favor. Wake me for
dosing.
                                                            
Tony nods. Ashley walks toward the entrance to the women's
bunks, where Mindi and Molly stand.
                                                            
                       MINDI
Well, well, well. Look who we got
here.
                                                            
                       MOLLY
Isn't she yours?
                                                            
They both glare at Ashley, who stares back, wide-eyed.
                                                            
                       MINDI
Yeah, she's mine.
      (to Ashley)
Want to guess who your roommate
is?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
You lie.
                                                            
Mindi reaches into her shirt pocket and plucks out a tiny
pair of bikini panties.
                                                            
                       MINDI
Recognize these?
                                                            
Mindi puts them back into her shirt.
                                                            
                       MINDI
Any time you want 'em back, all
you got to do is ask nicely.
      (beat)
Real nicely.
                                                            
She drops a wink. Ashley turns and walks back to the pool
table. She stops and clutches her belly.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
      (to self)
No, no, no, not now.
                                                            

43.

She takes two deep breaths and resumes walking, slowly. She
sits in a chair by the pool table.
                                                            
                       TONY
Couldn't sleep?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
I'm so dead.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - DAY
                                                            
Scott has set up the Othello board on a table. He has
pieces and chairs on each side of the board. He plays on
one side, then goes to the other side and plays the other
color. Lisa watches him.
                                                            
                       LISA
What are you doing?
                                                            
Scott doesn't look at her.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I'm playing the game.
                                                            
                       LISA
What game?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
The game.
                                                            
He pauses.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
It's everything.
                                                            
                       LISA
Can I learn?
                                                            
He looks at her and a tiny, devious smile crosses his face.
                                                            
 
INT. LABORATORY - DAY
                                                            
The intercom sounds and action takes place in all three
areas.
                                                            
                       INTERCOM VOICE
All study participants, go to your
assigned processing station for
dosing.
                                                            

44.

Lines form and lab assistants, each holding a spray can
aloft, talk to the groups en masse.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #1 - DAY
                                                            
Daniel and Shannon talk to a group that includes Biff,
Chris, Bobby, and Phillip. Daniel holds a clipboard while
Shannon speaks.
                                                            
                       SHANNON
      (to group)
You will enter the station single
file when we call your name. You
will be sprayed with your assigned
spray and move back to this area.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - DAY
                                                            
Charles and Russell are in charge. The group includes
Scott, Kelvin, and Lisa.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
      (to group)
You will not lie down. You will
not go outside. You will not
speak while being dosed. You will
sit immediately following dosing.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #3 - DAY
                                                            
Tami and Stacy are in charge. The group includes Ashley,
Meg, Tony, Molly, Mindi, and Buffy.
                                                            
                       TAMI
      (to group)
After sitting, we will come around
and ask about any adverse effects
as well as drawing blood at
scheduled times for the first
three hours following dosing. If
you need to use the bathroom, I
suggest you do it now.
                                                            
Several step forward and move, with Stacey, to the bathroom.
                                                            
                       TONY
      (to Ashley)
I'd take her up on it if I were
you. You look like you're about
to explode.
                                                            

45.

                       MEG
Covering us in God knows what.
                                                            
Ashley holds her belly and is slightly hunched over.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
I'll be fine. Just seven more
days.
                                                            
She takes a deep breath and stands up straight, smiling.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
No problem.
                                                            
 
INT. PROCESSING STATION #1 - DAY
                                                            
Bobby walks in, tentatively. Daniel points him to a seat.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Any idea what we're getting?
                                                            
                       DANIEL
No idea. They don't tell us.
Either the diva, wigga, or boy
band is all I know.
                                                            
Shannon looks at a stop watch.
                                                            
                       SHANNON
Stand by for dosing in five, four,
sthre, two.
                                                            
She points. Daniel blasts Bobby with an enormous amount of
spray, creating a cloud around him. Bobby coughs when he's
finished. Daniel sticks his head out the door.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
      (to group)
Next.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #3 - DAY
                                                            
The group sits in several rows of comfortable looking
chairs. Tami and Stacey move down the first row, speaking
to each participant.
                                                            
                       TAMI
      (to Molly)
How are you feeling?
                                                            

46.

                       MOLLY
How am I feeling? I need a glass
of water. What do I need to do to
get a drink around here?
                                                            
                       TAMI
Okay.
      (to Mindi)
And you?
                                                            
                       MINDI
These pants make me look fat,
don't they? Don't lie to me. I
need to change.
                                                            
                       TAMI
      (to Buffy)
How are you?
                                                            
                       BUFFY
I need my phone. I need my phone!
                                                            
                       STACEY
Give us a second and we'll get it.
                                                            
Buffy starts to rise.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
You don't understand. I need it
now.
                                                            
Stacey motions for her to sit. She does. Meg, Tony, and
Ashley sit in the row behind them.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Can you believe those girls?
They're ruining the movie.
                                                            
                       MEG
I can't watch this film. It's
awful and unbelievable. Are there
no romances anymore? I won't
watch this.
                                                            
She buries her face into her hands.
                                                            
                       TONY
      (to Ashley)
That Buffy's kinda' cute, don't
you think?
                                                            

47.

                       ASHLEY
Pfft. She's a skank. Dime a
dozen.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #1 - DAY
                                                            
Like Area #3, everybody is seated in similar chairs. Biff
sits in the front row, slouched. Daniel approaches him.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
How you feeling?
                                                            
                       BIFF
I'm a'ight.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
Just a'ight?
                                                            
                       BIFF
I said I'm a'ight. That okay wit'
you?
                                                            
Phillip, Chris, and Bobby sit in the second row.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
I tell ya' what. When I'm outta
here, know where I'm going?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Where dat?
                                                            
Bobby strokes his chin and looks up.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
I'm gonna take de' money dey gives
me and go to Amsterdam.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Amsterdam? Dat's cool.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Yeah. I've been meaning to check
dat town. I might be wit' you.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Hey, yo. I gotta aks you. You
still gots that cd?
                                                            
Phillip raises a player with headphones.
                                                            

48.

                       CHRIS
I'm thinking that sound pretty
good right about now.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Say no more.
                                                            
He hands Chris the player.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
      (to self)
Yeah, Amsterdam.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - DAY
                                                            
Charles and Russell have finished talking to the
participants, who sit with slack jaws.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
      (to Russell)
Did that seem like it went fast
for you?
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
Yeah. It was like a bunch of
automatons with nothing to say.
Look at them. It's like they're
just waiting for us to tell them
what to do next.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
Must've gotten the boy band spray.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #1 - DAY
                                                            
It's a few hours later. The participants are still seated.
Shannon finishes drawing blood from Chris and sticks a
cotton swab on his arm.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (to Shannon)
How long until we can walk around?
                                                            
                       SHANNON
About five minutes.
                                                            
She moves on.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
You guys remember anything about
the last few hours?
                                                            

49.

                       BOBBY
Only bits and pieces. I think I
remember mention of Europe.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
And a strong desire to smoke
menthols and wear pants that hang
around my knees.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
      (to Chris)
Didn't you bring a guitar?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Yeah. It's in my bunk.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
I've got one too. We'll have to
do a little jamming later.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Cool.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
      (to Bobby)
I knew I recognized you from
somewhere. Don't you play in a
band around here?
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Yeah. The Sewage Rangers.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I've heard talk about you guys.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
We play shows with some national
bands that come through. We're
known, just not on a large scale.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
That's where I saw you. You guys
opened for Stink Cream.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Yeah. We played that show.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
They're awesome. Great show.
                                                            

50.

                       BOBBY
I don't know if I'd say they're
awesome. Just another band
created by a major.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
No way.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Totally. They're skate punks,
right? The guys that always play
on the X games.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Yeah.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Cool bunch of guys, but the whole
thing is a schtick.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
It is not.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Yeah. Back stage, I got to
talking with the singer. The
whole band is into 50's bubblegum
pop and lounge music. Except for
the drummer. They're always the
last to know about that sort of
stuff.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I always wondered how much of that
was legit.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
We hung out and blasted Joan Jett
and T. Rex after the show. They're
making their cash grab and will
probably be gone by this time next
year.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Too bad majors have to push
garbage.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Unfortunately, if you think about
it, that's what the people want.
They want their music pre-packaged
and pasteurized for their
listening pleasure. Demands less
of them. It's always been that
            (MORE)

51.

                       BOBBY (cont'd)
way.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - DAY
                                                            
Russell and Charles still watch the group. The only one who
seems lucid is Scott. His eyes dart around suspiciously.
Charles holds a stop watch.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
      (to group)
Okay. You can all move around.
You eat in an hour. Tests start
tomorrow.
                                                            
Scott rises. Nobody else does. He glances at the group,
then moves over to Charles and Russell.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
How many Othello boards do you
have?
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #3 - DAY
                                                            
Ashley plays pool with Tony and Meg. She shoots, putting in
the eight ball to win. She jumps up and down.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Yeah!! In your face. In your
face.
                                                            
She stop jumping abruptly and clutches her abdomen.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Oh God.
                                                            
Meg and Tony come to her side.
                                                            
                       MEG
Breathe deep. Don't panic.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
I think this is it.
                                                            
                       TONY
You sure? It might not be time.
                                                            
Ashley closes her eyes.
                                                            

52.

                       ASHLEY
No, it's time. Please find
somebody to let me in.
                                                            
She moves slowly to the bathroom, Tony holding her arm to
steady her. Meg goes to find an associate.
                                                            
 
INT. WOMEN'S BATHROOM - DAY
                                                            
Fifteen minutes later. Ashley, in a stall, rises and faces
the toilet. She grimaces, pulling her pants up. She bends
down, reaching in with a collection stick, and gags. She
reaches closer and gags again. She bangs her head against
the stall and takes a deep breath.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
      (to self)
Come on. It's not that hard. Just
do it and it'll be over.
                                                            
She opens her eyes and tries, again, to collect the sample.
The bathroom door opens and Molly and Mindi enter.
                                                            
                       MINDI
I swear if I find out he took the
kids to Mexico again, I'll kick
his ass myself.
                                                            
                       MOLLY
Yeah, well, you got it easy
because.
                                                            
Mindi grabs Molly by the arm and puts her finger to her
mouth.
                                                            
                       MINDI
Shhh.
                                                            
She points at the stall. Ashley is on her knees and
visible. Her feet stick out from under the wall.
                                                            
                       MOLLY
That yours?
                                                            
Mindi smiles and nods. In the stall, Ashley has succeeded
in taking the sample and seals it in a bag. She smiles,
until her feet are yanked out of the stall.
                                                            
                       MINDI
Come here, fish.
                                                            
Ashley grabs the toilet, struggling.
                                                            
 

53.

INT. AREA #3 - DAY
                                                            
Meg and Tony play pool.
                                                            
                       TONY
She's been in there a bit.
                                                            
                       MEG
Ya' think?
                                                            
                       TONY
Yeah. I'm going to see what's up.
                                                            
 
INT. WOMEN'S BATHROOM - DAY
                                                            
Tony enters, looking back.
                                                            
                       TONY
Thanks Tami. I owe you one.
                                                            
He turns and sees Molly and Mindi each pulling on a foot.
                                                            
                       TONY
Hey, what are you doing?
                                                            
                       MINDI
Ewww, man!!! This is a women's
room. Get out you sicko.
                                                            
She starts slapping at his chest. He moves to teh door.
                                                            
                       MINDI
You pervert!
                                                            
                       TONY
Ouch, sorry.
                                                            
He leaves. Molly has stopped pulling.
                                                            
                       MINDI
Some people.
                                                            
                       MOLLY
Yeah. Perverted sex fiend.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Enough of this.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #3 - DAY
                                                            
Tony comes to Meg.
                                                            

54.

                       TONY
You better go in there. They think
I'm trying to catch a peek.
                                                            
She moves away without a word.
                                                            
 
INT. WOMEN'S BATHROOM - DAY
                                                            
Meg enters. Mindi sits on the floor and holds her eye.
Molly stands beside her. Ashley stands over each, pants up
and aggressive in attitude.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
I'm sick of playing with you white
trash hillbillies. You mess with
me again and I'll go to the
associates and get your asses
kicked out. Got it?
                                                            
                       MOLLY
You didn't have to hit her.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
I didn't. She fell, right?
                                                            
Silence.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
I said, right?
                                                            
                       MINDI
Right, right. Sure thing.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Now get out of here and I want my
panties back you mullet wearing
bitch.
                                                            
Mindi nods as they both leave.
                                                            
                       MEG
Everything okay?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Yeah, I think it just got a little
better. Aren't we supposed to be
eating soon?
                                                            
                       MEG
Ten minutes.
                                                            

55.

                       ASHLEY
Shit.
                                                            
                       MEG
What?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Shit. I haven't wiped yet. I'll
be right out.
                                                            
                       MEG
Okay. Gotcha'.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - DAY
                                                            
All participants sit in pairs, playing Othello. Scott
paces, watching each game. By the windows, as in each area,
two long tables are set up. Two cooks wait to serve the
participants. Scott smiles, watching Lisa's play.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Good, good.
                                                            
He nods smugly and caresses Lisa's cheek. She smiles up at
him. At the next table, SHAWN, a thin red headed man,
moves. Scott slams his fist down, sending pieces flying.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
No! Have you listened to nothing?
                                                            
                       SHAWN
But, I just thought.
                                                            
He raises his hand to slap Shawn, who cringes.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Dont' think fool! Just play the
game. Play the game. Play the
game.
                                                            
He screams.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
It's everything, you dolt!
                                                            
Shawn cringes again as Scott moves on.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (to group)
Never forget that it's everything.
                                                            

56.

                       INTERCOM VOICE
All participants, report for
meals. All participants.
                                                            
Scott glances up at the speaker, then back at the group.
They haven't moved and still play, as if brainwashed.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
      (cheerfully)
You heard the voice. Don't make
us wait. Let's get started.
                                                            
Nobody moves. Scott watches and smiles.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (to group)
Okay, time to eat.
                                                            
They rise as one and move, getting in line in front of the
food table. Scott easily goes to the front of the line.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #1 - DAY
                                                            
Chris, Bobby, and Phillip sit, eating.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
You miss your friend?
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Meg? Yeah. I'm guessing she's
missing me more, though. She gets
that way.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I'm sure she's alright.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Still, it'd be nice to be able to
talk to her before the tests
start. You've done these before,
right?
                                                            
Chris nods.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
What're they like?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
They can be a bit extensive and
exhausting.
                                                            

57.

                       PHILLIP
Yeah. Once, they made us run in
circles for fifteen minutes.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
The hell, you say.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
For real. They wanted to test how
the drugs we were testing reacted
in extreme physical situations.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
They hung us upside down in the
last study I did. Half hour.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Wow.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I heard they brought in a swimming
pool of sorts for this one. Since
this is a longer stay, I'm
guessing they'll have several
tests.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Man, I wish I had a cell phone.
                                                            
All look down the table, where Biff sits.
                                                            
                       BIFF
      (into phone)
Yeah, was a total blast. You
should have seen them. Both
completely drunk. We took some
pics and put them online.
      (pause)
Yeah, they're good friends.
                                                            
Bobby and Chris gather behind Biff, each looking over a
shoulder.
                                                            
                       BIFF
      (into phone)
Hang on a second.
      (to Chris)
What's up?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
You on the phone with your little
friend?
                                                            

58.

                       BIFF
Buffy? Yeah, why?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
What area is she in?
                                                            
                       BIFF
Three. Across the courtyard.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (to Bobby)
Which?
                                                            
                       BOBBY
She's in three.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Great.
      (to Biff)
I know you're having an
intellectually stimulating
conversation and all, but could
Bobby here please use your phone
for a second to set his friend's
mind at ease?
                                                            
Biff faces Bobby, who wears an angelic smile.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
It'd be most appreciated.
                                                            
He looks back at Chris, who nods silently with his eyes
closed.
                                                            
                       BIFF
Okay, sure.
      (into phone)
Hey Buff, could you give the phone
to somebody over there?
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Meg.
                                                            
                       BIFF
      (into phone)
Her name is Meg.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Short blonde.
                                                            
                       BIFF
      (into phone)
Short blonde.
                                                            

59.

                       BOBBY
With a tongue ring.
                                                            
                       BIFF
      (into phone)
With a tongue ring.
      (to Bobby)
Really?
                                                            
Bobby points to the phone.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Eyes on the prize.
                                                            
                       BIFF
Sure.
      (into phone)
She's got somebody over here that
wants to speak with her.
      (to Bobby)
She's going to get her.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
I won't be long.
                                                            
                       BIFF
      (into phone)
Meg?
      (pause)
Okay, here's your friend.
                                                            
He hands the phone to Bobby, who moves away from the table.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
      (into phone)
Hey lil' sis.
                                                            
Chris pats Biff on the back.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Great thing you did there.
                                                            
In the background, Bobby's face is alive and he laughs. We
can't hear what he's saying, but it's obvious that he's
happy. Biff smiles.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Little sisters rock.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Totally. I have one of my own.
                                                            

60.

                       PHILLIP
How old?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
20
                                                            
He pulls out his wallet and shows a picture to Phillip.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
This her?
                                                            
Chris smiles wide and nods. Phillip pulls out his wallet.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
She a student?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
No. She doesn't really do school
anymore. She's independently
wealthy. Lives in space a lot.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Oh yeah? I've heard of her. The
satellite kid is your little
sister?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Yeah.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
I saw that story on the news, when
she took that reporter lady into
space.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
She hated that. I can tell you.
                                                            
Phillip opens his wallet and holds it out to Chris.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
This is my worry source. She's
16. Janine.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Oh wow. She's cute.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
Hence the worries.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Well, they do grow out of that
one.
                                                            

61.

                       PHILLIP
I hope so.
                                                            
                       BIFF
You know, Buffy is like a little
sister to me.
                                                            
Both look at him.
                                                            
                       BIFF
Yeah, except that we have sex.
                                                            
He holds his hand up for one of them to slap. Both just
look at him silently.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Let's not ruin this moment. You
don't have sex with your little
sister. Doesn't matter if she's
really related or not.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
No kidding.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #3 - DAY
                                                            
Meg talks animatedly on the phone. We can't hear what she
says.
                                                            
                       TONY
Would you look at her? I didn't
think that girl had a smile in
her.
                                                            
Buffy watches Meg. She sits beside Tony, opposite Ashley.
She bats her eyes, smiling at him.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
Hi there. Don't I know you from
somewhere?
                                                            
                       TONY
Maybe. I've been on TV a few
times.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
That's it. You were on that
reality show where the chick had
to pick between a loser and an
ex-con.
                                                            
Tony nods.
                                                            

62.

                       BUFFY
Yeah, and she took the con. I
thought you were so much cuter
than him.
                                                            
                       TONY
Really?
                                                            
                       BUFFY
Yeah, really. By the way, have I
ever told you that I'm a virgin?
                                                            
Ashley rises and stomps over to where Molly and Mindi play
pool.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Are you two still looking for a
prison bitch?
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - NIGHT
                                                            
All the participants play Othello. Scott paces, wearing a
smug grin. Kelvin, playing with Shawn, tosses a piece down
on his board and rises.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
To hell with this. Why in the
hell are we playing this silly
game?
                                                            
Scott glares at him and speaks sternly.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Sit down now!
                                                            
                       KELVIN
To hell with you. Who made you my
master?
                                                            
Scott glares wider.
                                                            
                       SHAWN
      (to Kelvin)
Dude, sit down. Just do as he
says.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
You don't tell me to sit down.
                                                            
Scott trembles.
                                                            

63.

                       SCOTT
You will sit down right now and
play the game.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
Yo, jam your silly little game. I
wanna watch TV. Find out if it
works out for Rhonda and Thomas.
This game is bush.
                                                            
Scott's eyes bug out. Kelvin stares back. Everybody in the
room watches the two. Scott raises his eyebrow. Kelvin
screams and falls to the floor, grasping his head.
                                                            
                       KELVIN
Ahhhh, my head. He's in my head.
                                                            
Kelvin writhes. Scott turns his head and raises his eyebrow
further. Kelvin screams. Scott glances around the room.
Everyone stares. His facial expression fades. He glances
at Kelvin, then back at the group.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
What's wrong with him? Is nobody
going to help him?
                                                            
Kelvin stops screaming, sits up, and looks around. He rises
and returns to his table, resuming the game. Scott walks to
his bunk and mutters under his breath.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Nimrods.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #3 - NIGHT
                                                            
Somebody has brought out a radio and is playing it loud.
People dance. Ashley dances with Tony. Meg on her own,
smiling. Mindi closely with Buffy. The song ends and Buffy
plants a kiss on Mindi's cheek. The two move back into the
bunk area. Molly follows. Tony looks around.
                                                            
                       TONY
      (to Ashley)
Where's Buffy?
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
She's gone. How're you?
                                                            
She bats her eyes.
                                                            
 

64.

INT. TV STUDIO - DAY
                                                            
It's a dream. Scott sits on teh set of Who Wants to be a
Millionaire, across from REGIS Philbin.
                                                            
                       REGIS
This is for a million dollars. You
just used the 50-50. If you still
don't know, you can phone a
friend.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Yeah, I think I have a friend who
will know this. I'd like to call
Tony.
                                                            
                       REGIS
Good friends with Tony?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Best of buds.
                                                            
                       REGIS
Well, let's get him on the line.
                                                            
There is a slight pause, followed by the sound of a phone
ringing, then somebody answering.
                                                            
                       TONY (os)
      (on phone)
Hello.
                                                            
                       REGIS
Hello, Tony?
                                                            
                       TONY (os)
      (on phone)
Yeah?
                                                            
                       REGIS
We have your friend Scott here,
going for a million dollars. Here
he is. Your time starts now.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Hey Tony. What was U2's first
album? Boy or Joshua Tree?
                                                            
                       TONY (os)
      (on phone)
Hmmm.
                                                            

65.

                       SCOTT
Do you know it?
                                                            
                       TONY (os)
      (on phone)
Oh, I know it.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Then what's the answer?
                                                            
                       TONY (os)
      (on phone)
How much?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
What?
                                                            
                       TONY (os)
      (on phone)
How much is it worth to you?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Can we please talk about that
later?
                                                            
                       TONY (os)
      (on phone)
No, let's talk now. You have
fifteen seconds. I want seven
fifty.
                                                            
Scott looks around, nervously.
                                                            
 
INT. SCOTT'S BUNK - NIGHT
                                                            
Scott thrashes in his sleep, groaning.
                                                            
 
INT. TV STUDIO - DAY
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Please, just give me the answer.
I'll give you four hundred
thousand.
                                                            
                       TONY (os)
      (on phone)
At my count, you're down to five
seconds. Give me nine.
                                                            

66.

                       SCOTT
Please. I'm begging you. The
answer. PLEASE!
                                                            
The buzzer sounds. Tony is gone. Regis and Scott stare at
one another in silence for several seconds.
                                                            
                       REGIS
That's the first time that's ever
happened. So sorry. Do you want
to guess or take your five hundred
thousand and leave?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I think I'll guess. I'll say it's
the Joshua Tree. Final answer.
                                                            
 
INT. SCOTT'S BUNK - NIGHT
                                                            
Scott groans loud.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Nooo.
                                                            
He wakes with a start, bathed in sweat, and sits upright
quickly, glancing around and muttering to himself.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
The game, the game.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - NIGHT
                                                            
The room is dark. Russell sits, looking over some
paperwork. Scott walks in, huddled in blankets. He waddles
over to a table and sits in front of an Othello board. He
flips several pieces, then mutters incoherently.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
Hey, you can't be up. Get back to
sleep.
                                                            
Russell rises and walks over.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
I'm playing the game.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
If I get caught with you up
playing, my ass is swiss cheese.
                                                            

67.

                       SCOTT
Would you like to learn the game?
                                                            
Russell looks down at the board.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
Well, it has been a long shift. It
looks pretty simple.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
A minute to learn.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
What would it hurt?
                                                            
He sits across from Scott, who starts to pull pieces off the
board.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
Just one game.
                                                            
Scott emits a soft, yet sinister laugh.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #3 - DAY
                                                            
The participants, including Tony, Ashley, Meg, and Molly,
sit in a line of chairs. In front of them is a sensory
deprivation chamber. It is a cylindrical chamber with a
diameter of about ten feet and a door in the side. Stacey
and Tami stand by the door. Stacey takes a blood pressure
cuff off a participant. Tami holds a clipboard and looks
around.
                                                            
                       TAMI
      (shouting)
Buffy? Buffy? Where are you?
                                                            
                       BUFFY (os)
Coming. Oh my God.
                                                            
She walks from the bunk area, followed closely by Mindi, who
takes a seat. Buffy adjusts her top as she talks on her
cell phone and approaches the chamber.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
      (into phone)
Hello? Gawd!
      (pause)
Yeah, I told him I wanted
amethyst, but he got the ruby
anyway. Can you believe that? I
was so, like, whatever!
                                                            

68.

                       TAMI
Can't take that in with you.
                                                            
She points to the phone. Stacey puts the cuff on Buffy, who
gives Tami a dirty look.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
      (into phone)
I'll call you back.
                                                            
She hangs up, sets the phone down, and enters the chamber.
                                                            
 
INT. CHAMBER - DAY
                                                            
Buffy enters. The only light is that entering through the
door. She moves in halfway and looks around.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
Dark.
                                                            
As the door behind her is shut, she turns with a look of
terror on her face. When it is closed, she is in darkness.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
Oh Gawd.
                                                            
Her words echo. She takes several baby steps forward,
looking around tentatively. There's a sound off to her
right. She jumps.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
Is somebody there? Hello?
                                                            
There is a low sound of breathing.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
This isn't funny. Nobody else is
supposed to be in here.
                                                            
The sound increases in volume. She moves in its direction.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
I'm serious. I'm gonna tell on
you.
                                                            
A red light saber flashes on and DARTH Vader steps forward,
slashing at her with the weapon. She screams and runs.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
      (screaming)
Let me out of here! Oh my Gawd,
where is that door?
                                                            

69.

                       DARTH
I am your father.
                                                            
She bangs on the wall as Vader advances. She turns and
screams again.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #3 - DAY
                                                            
The group watches.
                                                            
                       TONY
      (to Ashley)
This is great! It reminds me of
when I was on "Ultimate Survival"
a few years back. We had to live
ihn a cave and eat nothing but
bugs and sewage for a month. That
lady hosting that show, that
blonde, she was pretty fine. She
wanted me, I could tell. So did
the middle aged chick from
Bulgaria. you know, the one that
had that cute face, but that huge
birthmark shaped like Snoopy on
her elbow? But she got voted off
the next week. I think that gay
dude wanted me, too, but he was
old enough to be my dad, and I
don't swing that way.
                                                            
Ashley smiles longingly in response.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
That sounds so exciting.
                                                            
Tami nods to Stacey, who opens the door. Buffy exits the
chamber, removes her cuff, and makes a beeline to her phone.
She picks it up and hits a button.
                                                            
                       BUFFY
      (into phone)
Yeah. Amethyst!
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - DAY
                                                            
Scott, Kelvin, Lisa, and Shawn stand submerged to their
shoulders in a clear, square glass tank. Each is hooked to
sensors and has a mouth piece attached to a scuba hose,
leading out of the tank. All shiver, Shawn the worst. Scott
has a look of stoic calm. Russell sits nearby. To his

70.

left, an Othello board is set up, occupying his attention.
Charles stands next to the tank.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
      (to participants)
Two minutes!
                                                            
Scott stands across from Shawn, watching him closely.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (to Shawn)
Why do you shiver like that?
                                                            
                       SHAWN
I'm cold. So cold. I didn't sign
up for this.
                                                            
Scott's eyes bug out of his head.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (shouting)
No, you cretin! You must focus.
Focus! The cold is nothing. Cold
comes and goes, but the game is
forever. It is the beginning and
the end. It is the dragon
swallowing its own tail. Don't
you see? The game is everything.
You must learn to concentrate.
Now, all of you. Focus!!
                                                            
                       CHARLES
Stand by. Ten seconds.
                                                            
He holds his arm up. Everybody puts in their mouthpieces.
Scott still stares through Shawn with contempt.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
Now!
                                                            
All sit under the water. Scott's eyes still remain on
Shawn. Charles looks at Russell, who is focused on the game
board.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
Hey big man, we gotta keep an eye
on this.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
I can't look away. It's
everything.
                                                            

71.

                       CHARLES
You're nuts.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
No. You just don't know the game.
I'll show you later. You'll
thank me. It's so fast, then
you'll know that it's truly
everything.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
Well, okay. Later. Just one
game.
                                                            
 
INT. GYMNASIUM - DAY
                                                            
Biff, Chris, and Phillip stand in a gymnasium with other
participants. Shannon and Daniel are nearby. They face a
large maze. Not much is visible beyond the entrance on the
left and the exit on the right. Bobby runs the maze. His
mohawk is visible above the maze walls.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
      (to Shannon)
I've never seen so many go through
without disturbing him.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Disturbing who?
                                                            
                       SHANNON
      (to Chris)
The minotaur.
      (to Daniel)
And he's the last guy. Might make
it through the entire group.
That'd be impressive.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
There's a minotaur in that maze?
                                                            
Shannon and Daniel both give him apathetic looks.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
Well, it's a really tiny minotaur.
      (to Shannon)
You don't suppose somebody might
have forgotten to feed him, do
you?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Minotaurs don't exist.
                                                            

72.

Daniel and Shannon both laugh.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
Okay, dude. Sure thing.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Look!
                                                            
Bobby's mohawk continues to bob comically as he bumbles
along. Suddenly, it stops, trembling.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
      (screaming)
What are you? Dear God. Get away
from me. NOOOOOOOOOO!
                                                            
He turns, running in the opposite direction. He falls.
                                                            
                       BOBBY (os)
      (screaming)
OH SWEET LORD NOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (shouting)
Bobby, this way!
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
      (shouting)
Run! Dude, run!
                                                            
                       BIFF
      (shouting)
Hang onto your pants. Minotaurs
will try to eat your balls!!
                                                            
Phillip and Chris look at him.
                                                            
                       BIFF
What?
                                                            
                       SHANNON
It's true.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
Tell me about it.
                                                            
The mohawk rises from the maze at another point, as if he
has been crawling. It moves toward the exit. Bobbby
emerges, missing half his shirt and with his pants down
around his ankles.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
That was close. How'd I do?
                                                            
 

73.

EXT. COURTYARD - DAY
                                                            
Several hours later. Bobby, in a new shirt, and Chris sit
on a giant slab stone bench, acoustic guitars in hand. It
is a sunny day. Biff walks around the courtyard, talking on
his cell phone, presumably to Buffy.
                                                            
                       BIFF
      (into phone)
Well, no. If you have sex with
another woman, that doesn't make
you gay.
                                                            
He turns and enters area #1.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
You're not bad. Ever thought of
starting a band?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I've thought of it. Done a little
playing here and there and never
found anybody who wanted to make
it like I did. No dedication, you
know?
                                                            
He laughs to himself.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
You've got a perfect situation.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
What do you mean?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Well, you play towns and live the
rock and roll lifestyle. Nothing
ties you down.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
I wish that was all there was to
it. I manage that band, too.
Tackle finances, set up gigs,
promotions. Kiss the ass of club
owners all around the southwest
and still work a full time job
around that.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I thought being a musician was a
full time job.
                                                            

74.

                       BOBBY
It is, but that doesn't mean that
I throw away a law degree to
pursue it.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Law?
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Yeah, I'm a lawyer. That's my
job. The band's just a dream.
Don't get me wrong, there's a ton
of people who get into it with
hopes of being a star and holding
the world by the tail. They think
that what they have to say is so
important that they just can't go
wrong. I mean, they've been
playing the guitar for fifteen
years and pour their heart into
those six strings, so how could
this turn out for naught?
                                                            
He gets up, walks over to the window, and glances in.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
They want to die for their art,
but forget that art isn't a
career. Art is your passion, but
that doesn't mean you throw your
life away as a result.
                                                            
He laughs lightly and turns to face Chris.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Can I assume you were thinking I'd
say something different? Give you
a nugget of insight that was of
another shade?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Everybody tells me I need
direction. I've always figured
that music was it.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
If music is going to be it, then
it will be. You just can't fool
yourself into believing that it is
all there is. Whatever is going
to happen is going to happen. Just
keep your eyes and options open.
If it's music, then it's music. If
            (MORE)

75.

                       BOBBY (cont'd)
not, don't let it ruin your life.
                                                            
The participants in area #3 dance. It's a party-like
atmosphere. Meg sees Bobby looking in. She smiles and
waves at him, then goes back to dancing.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Wow. Looks like a party.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Yeah. They're having a blast.
                                                            
Chris moves to the area #2 windows. Bobby joins him.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
That's weird.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Totally.
                                                            
They press their faces up against the window.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Can you see a thing?
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Just black. That's very odd.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - DAY
                                                            
The participants play Othello. Russell looks at the window.
Scott joins him.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
I think we have spies.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Yes, spies. They want the game.
Don't worry, we're safe from them.
They're the least of our worries
for now.
                                                            
Scott gestures to the doors leading to Area #1. From beyond
comes the music and sounds of fun and laughter.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
I hear somebody brought a stereo.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Stereo, you say?
                                                            
 

76.

INT. AREA #3 - DAY
                                                            
Tony sits, holding Ashley. Tami and Stacey watch. The
doors connecting Area #2 and Area #3 are kicked open.
Russell, Charles, Scott, and Kelvin stride through. The
group rises to meet them.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (to Kelvin)
There it is. Get it.
                                                            
He points to the radio. Kelvin walks over, unplugs it, and
picks it up.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
Hey.
                                                            
She is headed off by Russell.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
Sit down and we'll be gone in a
second.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
But you can't do that. We were
listening.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
And now we will listen to it. We
will get the laughter you so
greedily stole from us. It shall
be a fitting tribute to the game.
                                                            
                       TAMI
      (to Charles)
Dammit, you know that they can't
be in here.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
And you ain't telling nobody about
this.
                                                            
                       STACY
      (to Tami)
Wait till they're gone and then
I'll call Lucinda.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
I said you ain't telling nobody
anything. If you do, I'll start
speaking about a passion filled
evening involving Stacey, Tami,
and Charles the Dark Knight.
                                                            

77.

Stacey and Tami look at one another silently. Each blushes.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
Yeah. All of a sudden you have
second thoughts about your night
with the Chocolate Avenger.
                                                            
All but Charles leave the area with the radio. Charles
turns and holds his finger to his lips.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
Shhh!
                                                            
He leaves, slamming the doors shut. Meg walks over and hugs
Ashley. Tony hugs both. Seemingly, the entire group is
traumatized.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #1 - DAY
                                                            
Two days later. Biff, Chris, Bobby, and Phillip lounge on
chairs. Biff speaks into his phone.
                                                            
                       BIFF
      (into phone)
And I couldn't beleive he actually
shaved his armpits. Could you?
Hello?
                                                            
He bangs on the phone.
                                                            
                       BIFF
Hello?
                                                            
He closes the phone and looks at the other three.
                                                            
                       BIFF
Battery died. Now what am I
supposed to do?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Be bored like the rest of us.
                                                            
Daniel and Shannon enter the area. Daniel pushes a computer
cart. Phillip runs over and sits by Daniel.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
First.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (to Shannon)
What's this?
                                                            

78.

                       SHANNON
Somebody was happy that at least
one group behaved themselves this
week and wanted to reward you with
internet for the rest of the stay.
      (to group)
Now play nice.
      (to Daniel)
The door.
                                                            
Daniel walks to the doors connecting Area #1 and Area #2 and
jams two rubber wedges under each.
                                                            
                       BIFF
What's that for?
                                                            
                       DANIEL
Word has it that some of group two
wandered into three. Nothing
intentional or serious, just don't
want it to happen again. Hence,
the chocking of the doors. Happy
surfing.
                                                            
Daniel and Shannon leave. Phillip pounds away on the
keyboard. Biff and Chris look at him, then one another.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
He looks like he's having fun.
                                                            
                       BIFF
Yeah.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
I'm taking a nap.
                                                            
He leaves.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (to Biff)
Like I was saying, that looks like
fun.
                                                            
                       BIFF
Totally.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I bet that it would be an awesome
time killer.
                                                            
                       BIFF
Yeah.
                                                            

79.

They spring toward the empty seat, pushing and slapping one
another.
                                                            
 
INT. AREA #2 - NIGHT
                                                            
That night. Scott stares into the empty courtyard. Behind
him, the rest of the group plays Othello. The stolen streeo
sits, emitting dreary, depressing music. Lisa joins him.
                                                            
                       LISA
Something wrong?
                                                            
                       SCOTT
If a fool has a chance to play in
the moonlight, they take it,
right?
                                                            
                       LISA
Of course.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Then why is the courtyard empty?
                                                            
                       LISA
I don't know.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
It's the time when area one gets
to go outdoors. Trust me on this.
I've been watching both groups
all week. Yet, something keeps
them inside. What is it? Whatever
it is, we deserve it more than
they. Go back to the game. I need
to think.
                                                            
She leaves and he keeps staring. Phillip enters the
courtyard, wearing headphones. Scott watches him.
                                                            
 
EXT. COURTYARD - NIGHT
                                                            
Phillip moves toward the windows of Area #2. He looks
inside, pressing his face close. From the darkness emerges
Scott. Phillip backs up a step, a deer in headlights. Scott
points to the Area #2 door. Phillip shakes his head slowly.
Scott points again, this time more aggressively and
emphatically. Phillips shoulders slouch and he walks to the
door. Scott moves to meet him.
                                                            
 

80.

INT. AREA #1 - NIGHT
                                                            
Biff sits at the computer. Chris looks over his shoulder.
                                                            
                       BIFF
This picture was taken at the
Alpha Theta Gwar party. He passed
out and we waxed his entire body.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Dude, I don't know if that's more
funny or gay.
                                                            
                       BIFF
Shut up.
                                                            
There is a pounding noise on the other side of one of the
Area #2 doors. Both turn to face it.
                                                            
                       BIFF
What was that?
                                                            
There is another thump.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
No idea.
                                                            
They slowly move toward the doors. The courtyard door is
kicked open and Phillip frantically races through, moving to
Biff and Chris as the doors are pounded again.
                                                            
                       PHILLIP
I'm sorry. He grabbed me. He
made declarations. He made me
tell him things. He forced me.
                                                            
He sobs as the door is pounded three times, shaking it
slightly.
                                                            
                       SCOTT (os)
      (through the door)
By God, get that door down. For
the love of the game.
                                                            
                       OTHERS (OS)
      (through the door)
The game!
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (to self)
My God, he's gone mad.
                                                            

81.

                       BIFF
What?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (shouting)
Get the doors!
                                                            
Chris, Phillip, and Biff, along with three others, press
against the door, which explodes against them with a thud,
opening an inch, then slamming shut. Bobby emerges from the
bunk area, rubbing his eyes.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
What's going on here?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Get up here and help us.
                                                            
The door is hammered, again opening slightly, then slamming
shut. Bobby runs over and presses against the door.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
Your roommate?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Yeah.
                                                            
                       BOBBY
I knew I should have killed him
when I had the chance.
                                                            
The door is pounded again, opening several inches. Before
closing, Shawn's arm shoots through. The door slams shut.
He screams, but the arm remains. Another surge pushes the
door open enough for him to wedge his body in before it
slams shut on his chest. His eyes bulge from the pressure.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (shouting)
They're playing the game on their
computer. I can smell it! Heresy!
                                                            
He reaches over Shawn's body, scratching at hands holding
the door shut. Shawn continues to scream. Daniel and
Shannon enter the room.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
What the?
                                                            
A final push explodes the door open completely. Shawn
falls. Scott steps over him. Kelvin, Charles, Russell, and
Lisa follow. Scott points at the computer.
                                                            

82.

                       SCOTT
There! Lisa, the cords. Kelvin,
bring it back to us. An offering
for the game.
                                                            
They both move to the computer, following orders.
                                                            
                       SHANNON
What do you think you're doing?
                                                            
She and Daniel each move forward to intercede. Scott points
at Charles and Russell.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
Back.
                                                            
He steps in their way.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
      (to Russell)
You have three seconds to get out
of my way or I'll knock you on
your ass, stretch.
                                                            
                       SHANNON
      (to Daniel)
Don't bother. I'm calling
Lucinda.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
Do that and I post on my blog
about your night with Charlie and
the chocolate factory.
                                                            
                       SHANNON
I'm not going to comment on how
disturbing and offensive that
implied imagery is to me and my
family or attack and expose it as
the lie we both know it to be.
What I will say is, if you try to
drag my name throught the mud,
I'll be forced to tell of you,
your boy Russ, and a naked cuddle
that I had the unfortunate
pleasure of walking in on at the
last New Years party.
                                                            
Charles staers, wide-eyed. She wrinkles her nose.
                                                            
                       SHANNON
I believe he was calling your his
little Hershey's Kiss.
                                                            

83.

                       DANIEL
Hershey's kiss?
                                                            
She walks out of the room. Charles follows.
                                                            
                       CHARLES
Wait. You said that was our
little secret. You promised.
                                                            
Lisa unhooks the computer and Kelvin wheels it toward the
doors. Scott directs the cart. Phillip and Biff block
their way. Scott tries to go around, but they keep moving
to block him. He starts to pout.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
Move, you fools.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (to Phillip and
       Biff)
Let them go. We'll get it back
soon.
      (to Russell)
Right?
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
Yeah. You should have it back
later tonight.
                                                            
They move out of the way. Lisa moves through the door.
Scott and Kelvin follow, moving the cart, which runs over
Shawn's prone body.
                                                            
                       SCOTT
      (to Kelvin)
Pick up your brother.
                                                            
When the computer is through, Kelvin reaches back and drags
Shawn into Area #2. The doors slam behind them.
                                                            
                       RUSSELL
      (to Daniel)
I'm so sorry, man.
                                                            
                       DANIEL
It's easy to say that to me. Wait
till Lucinda gets here.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
He's my roommate. What's going to
happen?
                                                            

84.

                       DANIEL
Well, most surely he's gone ASAP.
Some people might actually get
fired over this one. All I know
is that this is pretty screwed up.
I'll try to keep you posted.
                                                            
 
INT. CHRIS AND SCOTT'S HOUSE - DAY
                                                            
Several days later. The door opens and Chris staggers
inside, carrying his load, which he tosses on the couch.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (shouting)
You could have at least brought in
the mail, you know?
                                                            
An envelope sits beside the TV. He opens and reads it. His
concentration is broken by the phone ringing. He answers
it, still glancing at the letter.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (into phone)
Hello?
      (pause)
Hey, you get home alright?
                                                            
 
INT. ASHLEY'S HOUSE - DAY
                                                            
Kitchen.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
      (into phone)
Oh yeah. Tony is a great driver.
Get this, we decided to give
dating a shot. Hang on a second.
                                                            
She shouts in the direction of her bedroom.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
      (shouting)
Hey! Out of the bedroom.
                                                            
Tony enters the kitchen.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
You're not allowed in there for
six months. You know that. Now,
go wait in the living room.
                                                            

85.

She points to her cheek, which he kisses, then moves out of
the room.
                                                            
                       ASHLEY
      (into phone)
Sorry. He requires a little
training, but I have faith in this
one. He shows promise. Did I
tell you that he's going to
Antarctica for a reality show in a
few weeks? It's exciting. But
that's not why I called. I wanted
to hear how your roommate was
doing.
                                                            
 
INT. CHRIS AND SCOTT'S HOUSE - DAY
                                                            
Chris has put down the letter and is sitting on the couch.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (into phone)
Wish I could tell you. He's gone.
      (pause)
Yeah. Looks like his cult turning
on him, coupled with being
banished from the lab, was a bit
hard for him to handle. I hear
that he lost it when Lucinda
over-turned the game tables.
      (pause)
Oh yeah. I heard him screaming,
too. Did you see when they led
him out through the courtyard? He
was sobbing like a baby.
      (pause)
Well, he was there for a week and
isn't getting paid a dime.
      (pause)
Yeah, pretty sad.
                                                            
A doorbell rings.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (into phone)
Hey, somebody's at the door. I'll
call you back later.
      (pause)
Yeah. Bye.
                                                            
He hangs up, moves to the door, and opens it, finding
Theresa with a wide grin on her face. She comes inside.
                                                            

86.

                       THERESA
Hi Chris. It's nice to see you. I
need to talk to Scott.
      (shouting upstairs)
Scott! Honey, come down.
      (to Chris)
I've missed him a bunch. You
think he's asleep? That must be
it. You don't think he'd mind if
I went up, do you? Surely not.
                                                            
She moves toward the stairs, climbing the first three.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Theresa, before you go up there,
you're going to want to read this.
                                                            
Chris holds out the letter to her. She looks at it, then
him.
                                                            
 
INT. MEXICAN BORDER - DAY
                                                            
Super: Mexican Border
                                                            
Border patrol leans against a white truck, gazing into
Mexico. From behind, Tan walks past with quick, short
steps, using a walking stick. After he passes, Tonya and
Scott stride past, holding hands.
                                                            
                       SCOTT (vo)
To whoever reads this, you have
seen me for the final time. I've
seen the light and am done with
your world. I'm going to a land
where I'll be free to pursue the
ultimate enlightement. To a place
where such ideas are encouraged
rather than routinely stifled.
Farewell and know that,
ultimately, you're all to blame.
Sincerely, Scott. P.S., Chris.
You still owe beer to the game.
Don't be the dragon.
                                                            
 
INT. CHRIS AND SCOTT'S HOUSE - DAY
                                                            
Living room. Theresa sits on the couch, beside Chris. She
holds the card in her hand and looks at him.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
I'm so sorry.
                                                            

87.

                       THERESA
Why? W..w..why?
                                                            
She breaks down. Chris puts a consoling arm around her.
                                                            
                       THERESA
Why? I loved him so much. The
things I did for him. How could
he do this? How? Did I do
something?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Hey now, don't beat yourself up.
                                                            
                       THERESA
Everyone. Everyone at my job,
everyone I know, they all said
that I could do better. That I
deserved more. And did I listen?
No. I told them that they were
wrong. That they just didn't know
him.
      (beat)
I'm an idiot.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Hey. That's no attitude to have.
                                                            
                       THERESA
I got him a job. Would you
believe that? I got him a job.
Put my neck on the line and
vouched for him. My boss, she's
met him and didn't want him. But
for me, she held an opening. Said
it was his. For me. Now, after
all that, I have to tell her that
she was right. I have to swallow
my pride and, and, dammit. Why
did he have to leave?
                                                            
She starts crying again.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Hey, hey. You trusted and gave
him the benefit of the doubt.
Might have been looking through
rose colored glasses, but your
heart was in the right place. The
sacrifices you've undoubtedly made
for that ungrateful piece of crap
are immeasurable. That type of
dedication is rare. Don't ever
say that you're wrong for feeling
            (MORE)

88.

                       CHRIS (cont'd)
that way.
                                                            
                       THERESA
Serious?
                                                            
He nods. She hugs him, then stands and sniffles.
                                                            
                       THERESA
I can't stay here and feel sorry
for myself. I need to go tell my
boss that we need to run an ad for
the position.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Where is this, again?
                                                            
                       THERESA
Bank. Over on Conwell.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
What position?
                                                            
                       THERESA
Oh, entry level in the new loans
department. Good pay,
advancement, standard stuff. Great
job for a student. That's why I
thought of him for it. Why do you
ask?
                                                            
 
EXT. DESERT - DAY
                                                            
Six months later. Chris's car pulls up. He gets out.
Theresa emerges from the rider's seat. He puts his arm
around her. They kiss. He has a shorter haircut. They
look up.
                                                            
                       THERESA
So, she's up there?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Yeah. Here it comes.
                                                            
                       THERESA
Oh wow. Coming down fast.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Yeah. It boogies.
                                                            
The pod sets down. The door opens and Nita steps out,
wearing a scuba tank and carrying bags. She hugs Chris then

89.

turns, put the tank back in the pod, and punches several
buttons. The pod rises. He points up. She raises her
finger to his lips.
                                                            
                       NITA
Look at you. Very dapper.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Yeah. I got a job.
                                                            
                       NITA
Well, big brother, it's about
time. New girlfriend?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
About four months now.
                                                            
                       NITA
      (to Theresa)
Hi. I'm Nita.
                                                            
                       THERESA
Theresa. Pleased to meet you.
Chris has told me so much about
you.
                                                            
                       NITA
Yeah, don't believe half of it.
You better treat him right or
you'll have me to answer to.
                                                            
                       THERESA
Understood.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Umm, Nitster, I hate to be the
bearer of bad news, but you just
sent the pod back up.
                                                            
She nods.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
But, if it goes up, then he can
get out.
                                                            
She nods again.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Do you want him out?
                                                            
She smiles wide and nods.
                                                            

90.

                       NITA
How's Punky?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
He's doing well. Had an eye
infection for a bit.
                                                            
She cuts him off by jumping on him, hugging him tightly, and
kissing his cheeks. She smiles widely.
                                                            
                       NITA
He said yes!
                                                            


FADE OUT.


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