FadE IN:
INT. hospital room - dAY
A near bare white walled room. Bright lights shine down on a small hospital bed. 
A gloved hand reached across the bed and fastens a strap. MONTY MURPHY, 18, looks at DR. MEREDITH, terrified. 
The doctor fastens another strap. Monty arches his back and presses his chest into the strap, he can hardly move. He breathes heavily. 
A NURSE pulls out a large needle and sets it on the small instrument table beside the bed. Monty's eyes bug out as he sees the needle. 
Dr. Meredith takes the needle and sticks it into Monty's arm. 
Dr. Meredith
You're going to smell onions. 
Monty cringes and squints his eyes. His eyes start to flutter. Dr. Meredith pushes a button on a machine beside the bed. Monty's body goes into a small seizure. 
Dr. Meredith and the nurse casually watch. 
The nurse enters an airway into his mouth and gives him oxygen. 
Monty blinks. 
A FLASH of a baseball field. 
Monty blinks again. 
A FLASH of a little league game. 
Monty gasps and blinks again. The bright lights blind him. 
mATCH CUT TO:
EXT. baseball field - day 
A small local baseball field. A little league game is in process. 
The pitcher, DEREK, 10, nods to the catcher, YOUNG MONTY, 10. 
Derek looks to his left and then to the batter. He winds up for a pitch. Monty waits, his glove ready. 
Derek throws the ball. It hits the BATTER in the arm. 
Batter 
Hey! 
The UMPIRE signals a walk. The batter drops his bat and jogs to first base. Monty picks up the ball. 
Derek shakes his head, frustrated. Monty takes off his mask and runs out to the pitcher's mound. 
Monty
Relax, it's alright. 
Derek looks at the ground. 
Derek
I hit him pretty hard. 
He turns his head and looks at the batter on first base. The batter sticks his tongue out at Derek. Monty notices. 
MoNTY
That guy's a jerk anyway. He deserves it. 
Derek looks up and smirks. 
DerEK
Yeah. He kinda does, huh? 
MonTY
Just shake it off. 
The next batter walks up to home plate. Derek bites his lip. 
MONTY (CONT'D)
Put more spin on your curve ball. 
DerEK
My curve ball? But--
MonTY
Trust me. 
Monty hands him the ball then jogs back to home plate. He puts on his mask. 
Derek looks down at the ball in his glove. He looks at Monty. Monty nods. 
Derek preps for the throw. He throws a perfect curve ball. The ball flies past the batter as he swings and right into Monty's glove. 
Umpire
Strike!
Derek pumps his fist in excitement. Monty opens his catcher’s mitt and looks at the ball then at Derek. He smiles. 
In the stands MR. MURPHY, MRS. MURPHY and MONTY'S BROTHER,ROBBIE all stand up. They CHEER and CLAP. 
Monty turns around and looks at them. He lifts up his mask and smiles. They also smile. His mother blows a kiss. Monty smiles wider. 
INT. hOSPITAL ROOM - dAY
Monty blinks again. The light is bright. He blinks once more. His eyes close. 
MaTCH CUT TO:
INT. classroom - dAY
Monty's eyes are closed. His head slowly moves down toward the desk as he falls asleep. He jerks up for a second and then drifts back down. 
The other students all watch him and chuckle. A few cover their mouths to keep quiet as the TEACHER continues to teach in the front of the room. 
WILLIAM, cocky and popular, nods to a couple of his buddies. They mouth "do it." 
William reaches behind Monty's neck with his thumb and middle finger. A couple of teens chuckle. Monty moves a bit then relaxes back into his position. William looks back at the other teens and places his finger to his mouth in a quieting manner. 
William reaches over Monty's back again and pinches his neck. 
Monty jerks upright quickly. He flails around and makes noise as his notebook hits the floor. The teacher spins around. 
Monty tries to compose himself.
The other students all LAUGH loudly. 
Teacher
Monty!
A couple guys beside William give him high-fives. Monty looks around at everyone. They all LAUGH at him. The teacher glares at him. 
Monty lowers his head, embarrassed. 
William
Nice one, Rip Van Winkle. 
William the teenagers around him continue to chuckle. William leans forward and whispers. 
William (CONT'D)
Rip Van Winkle, Rip Van Winkle, Rip Van Winkle. 
Monty puts his fingers in his ears and closes his eyes tight. William continues on.
William (CONT'D)
Rip Van Winkle, Rip Van Winkle...
INT. monty's childhood home - dAY
A phone RINGS. 
Mrs. Murphy strolls over to the phone in the small kitchen. She answers it. 
Mrs. Murphy
Hello? 
(beat)
Why yes, this is she. 
(beat)
Monty, yes...
Monty walks in through the front door. He drags his feet as he enters. Mrs. Murphy peaks through the kitchen doorway and sees him. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
Monty? Yes...
She looks at him sternly as she listens on the phone. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
Yes, alright. I'll have a talk with him. Thank you very much for calling. 
Monty starts to head toward another room. Mrs. Murphy hangs up the phone. 
Mrs. MURPHY (CONT'D)
Monty.
Monty stops. 
MonTY
Yes mama. 
She nods to the coach. Monty sets his books down on the ground and sits down. 
Mrs. MURPHY
That was Mr. Henderson. He said you've been a bit irritable in class lately. 
Monty doesn't respond. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
Well? 
MonTY
It's nothing. Just some stupid kids. 
Mrs. MURPHY
Stupid kids are making you irritable? 
MonTY
You know how it is. They're just saying stuff is all. 
MrS. MURPHY
What kind of stuff? 
MonTY
Doesn't matter. 
Monty starts to stand up. 
Mrs. MURPHY
What are you depressed about?
Monty freezes. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
He said you seemed sad.  What's bothering you, honey? 
MontY
Nothing. I've just been tired is all. 
MrS. MURPHY
Tired?
Monty shakes his head. 
MoNTY
Got loads of studying to do, mama. 
Mrs. Murphy half-nods and fakely smiles. 
Mrs. MURPHY
Yes dear, go ahead. 
Monty stands and walks out of the room. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
I'll call you later for dinner. 
She sits on the couch, lost in thought, a blank expression. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - dining room - nIGHT
Monty, Mrs. Murphy, Mr. Murphy and Robbie all sit around the table and eat dinner. 
Mr. MurphY
Have to keep those grades up to get a scholarship, you know. 
MonTY
Yes sir. 
Mr. MURPHY
Not to mention being more like your brother. 
Monty raises his eyes from his plate and looks at his older brother who chows down on dinner and doesn't pay attention to the conversation at hand. 
Monty nods. 
Mr. MURPHY (CONT'D)
Besides, what do you have to be sad about? You've got a great life. Roof over your head, food in your belly...heck you don't even have to work for it. 
Mrs. Murphy carefully wipes her mouth and touches her husband's arm. 
Mr. MURPHY (CONT'D)
What? He's got it easy. When I was his age I was working full time and we still had nothing. 
Mrs. Murphy stands. 
Mrs. MURPHY
Who'd like some pie? 

Robbie sits up, excited. 
robbie
Me please!
Mr. MURPHY
Just a small slice, sweetheart. 
He pats his stomach. 
Mr. MURPHY (CONT'D)
Trying to slim down a bit. 
Mrs. Murphy looks to Monty. 
MoNTY
Nothing, thanks. Back to studying. 
Monty rises and leaves the room. 
Mrs. Murphy sighs. 
Mrs. MURPHY
The senior trip will do it. 
robbie
I remember my senior trip.
He smiles. 
robbie (CONT'D)
It was loads of fun. 
Mr. MURPHY
Have you completed your work, young man? 
robbie
It's break, dad. No homework during winter break. 
Mrs. Murphy looks concerned. 
Mr. MURPHY

He just needs a bit of fun. He's fine. 
Mrs. Murphy half-smiles and nods, assuring herself. 
EXT. bahamas - daY
The waves crash against the shoreline. The sun shines brightly. 
A group of teenagers dance around and lay out on the beach. Monty is amongst them, a beer in hand. 
The MUSIC blares and they dance around freely. Monty smiles happily as he checks out the girls in tiny bikinis frolicking about. 
EXT. bahaMAS - nIGHT
The MUSIC is lower, the sun down. Small twinkle lights illuminate the patio of a restaurant. 
Several teens sit around a few round tables. The tables are covered in empty glasses and half-eaten plates of food. 
Several guys have girls sitting on their laps. A couple make-out. 
Monty has a cute girl, STEPHANIE, seated on his lap. She moves to the music and laughs. Her drink spills across her lap. Monty strokes her thighs. 
She leans into him and whispers. 
Stephanie
Let's go find someplace quiet. 
His face lights up. She smirks and stands up. Monty stands up as well and follows. 
They walk down the beach together holding hands. 
INT. bahamas - hotel room - nIGHT
Monty and Stephanie sit on the bed and make-out. They're awkward in their movements, but they are very into one another. 
Stephanie pulls away for a second. Monty stares at her, afraid he's done something wrong. 
Stephanie slowly unbuttons her blouse. Monty raises his eyebrows as he sees her bra. 
StePHANIE
You do have something, right? 
Monty nods, in a trance. 
Stephanie lays on the bed. They continue to kiss. Monty strokes her half-naked body as they kiss. 
All of a sudden the door opens. 
Chaperone (o.S.)
Lights out. Bed--
The CHAPERONE sees Monty and Stephanie in the bed kissing. 
CHAPERONE (CONT'D)
Ahhhh!
She YELLS. 
ChaPERONE (CONT'D)
Out! Out! Out, right now!
She grabs Monty by the arm and pushes him toward the door. 
MonTY
But this is my room. 
She pulls him back and grabs Stephanie by the arm. She pulls Stephanie through the door. 
ChaPERONE
You should be ashamed of yourself, young lady. 
The chaperone pokes her head back in the room. 
ChaPERONE (CONT'D)
And you...
Monty breathes heavily. 
ChaPERONE (CONT'D)
I'm calling your parents!
MonTY
No. 
ChaPERONE
Taking advantage of a poor innocent girl...you...you...shame on you. 
Monty's face drops. 
The chaperone slams the door shut. 
Monty sits on his bed and puts his head in his hands. 
MonTY
Not good. So not good. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - dINING ROOM - nIGHT
Monty, Mr. Murphy and Mrs. Murphy sit around the table eating dinner. It's very quiet. Monty doesn't lift his eyes from his barely touched plate. 
MrS. MURPHY
So I was talking with Mrs. Zillion the other day and she said there's an opening at the ice cream shop if you're looking for a job. 
Monty doesn't respond. Mr. Murphy stares at him. He sets his fork down and crosses his arms, a serious scowl on his face. 
Mr. MURPHY
Your mother's talking to you. 
Monty nods. 
MonTY
(robotic)
Yes, mom, that's a great opportunity. Thank you so much for the information. 
Mrs. Murphy looks at him quickly then looks away. 
MrS. MURPHY
You're welcome, darling. 
Monty shifts, restless. 
MonTY
Can I be excused? 
Mrs. MURPHY
What is it? Do you not like the sweet potatoes?
Monty shakes his head. 
MonTY
They're swell. I just...I just...
He struggles to find the words. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
Can I just be excused?
He continues to look down. 
MrS. MURPHY
Of course, darling. Go ahead. 
Monty hops to his feet and quickly leaves the room. Mr. Murphy watches him leave the room and shakes his head. 
Mr. MURPHY
We didn't raise him to act that way. 
MrS. MURPHY
Oh, you're one to talk. I remember how you courted me. 
She raises an eyebrow. 
Mr. MURPHY
I did come on strong, huh?
She nods.
Mrs. MURPHY
He was just being a teen boy. It's normal. 
Mr. MURPHY
I know. It's just--
MrS. MURPHY
He's being too hard on himself. You should talk to him. 
Mr. Murphy nods. Mrs. Murphy stares at him. 
Mr. MURPHY
What, like now? 
She nods. 
Mr. MURPHY (CONT'D)
But we're in the middle of dinner. 
Mrs. MURPHY
Go. 
Mr. Murphy throws down his napkin and stands up. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - monty's room - nIGHT
Monty sits on his bed and looks out the window. Mr. Murphy walks in and sits beside him on the bed. 
Mr. MURPHY
Look, I know what happened was a--
MonTY
I don't want to talk about it. 
Mr. MURPHY
It's alright you know. It's perfectly normal. We were just--
MonTY
Ashamed. Mad. Angry.
Monty looks up and stares Mr. Murphy directly in the eyes. 
MoNTY (CONT'D)
I'm guilty alright. I did it. I'm sorry. 
Mr. MURPHY
Monty, we're not ashamed--
Monty shakes his head. 
MONTY
I just want to be alone right now. 
Mr. Murphy nods and stands up. He heads for the door. Monty turns on his radio and the MUSIC blasts. He stares off blankly. 
EXT. high school auditorium - daY
The auditorium is full of families. Seniors walk into the auditorium dressed in caps and gowns. 
Mr. Murphy, Mrs. Murphy and Robbie are seated in the stands. They CLAP and WHISTLE. 
Mrs. Murphy talks with BETTY, 40s, seated beside her. 
betty
I heard Monty got into some fancy smanzy school. 
MrS. MURPHY
Yes, a full ride. A small, private school, Anderson College. 
betty
Wow, a full scholarship. That's incredible. 
Mrs. MURPHY
We're very proud. And Monty's thrilled. He just can't wait to start. 
Monty looks miserable as he stands in line awaiting walking on stage for his diploma. Betty and Mrs. Murphy both see his expression at the same time. Mrs. Murphy smiles fakely and looks at Betty. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
He's a bit under the weather today. 
betty
I see. 
Mrs. Murphy looks forward again and watches Monty, he's uncomfortable and looks out of place. Everyone around him is happy. The other students smile, CHEER and CLAP. 
Mr. Murphy touches Mrs. Murphy's leg and leans into her. 
Mr. MURPHY
He's fine. 
MrS. MURPHY
Just a bit under the weather is all. 
Mr. MURPHY
Absolutely. A couple weeks he'll be his normal happy self again. A college man. 
Mrs. Murphy half-smiles at him and turns front again. 
MrS. MURPHY (V.O.)
His normal happy self? He hasn't been happy in quite some time. 
Monty takes the stage. The principal hands him his diploma and shakes his hand. 
Mrs. Murphy, Mr. Murphy and Robbie all stand and CLAP. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
Good job, son!
Mr. MURPHY
Way to go, Monty! 
Monty looks up into the stands at his family and frowns. He hangs his head and walks off stage. 
EXT. Anderson college - dAY
A quaint college. Lots of students walk around. The environment is light and airy. Everyone seems pleasantly happy. 
Monty approaches the school and looks at the several buildings. He spots the sign. 
MonTY
Anderson College here I come. 
A couple cute girls pass. One smiles and winks at him. He lowers his head and looks away. 
INT. college classroom - dAY
A full auditorium lecture hall type class. 
PROFESSOR TUTTLE, 50s, short and stout, stands at the front of the class. 
Professor tuttle
Basic scientific principle proves that men evolved from apes. 
A couple people in the class whisper. 
PrOFESSOR TUTTLE (CONT'D)
Would anyone like to challenge that idea? 
He looks around the classroom. A couple hands rise up. He points to a short blonde, CHELSEA. 
Chelsea
Uh yeah, I don't--
PrOFESSOR TUTTLE
Your name? 
CheLSEA
Chelsea Seaburg. 
ProFESSOR TUTTLE
Thank you, Miss Seaburg. Please continue. 
CheLSEA
Uh yeah, I don't believe that. I believe in God and know he is my creator. 
ProfESSOR TUTTLE
Do you have physical evidence?
She thinks for a second. 
ChelSEA
No. 
ProFESSOR TUTTLE
Well then you have nothing. 
CheLSEA
But--
PrOFESSOR TUTTLE
In my class if you don't have evidence it doesn't count. 
The eyes of a few students open wide. They stare straight ahead at him. 
Monty taps his pencil against his notebook. 
ProFESSOR TUTTLE (CONT'D)
Now open up your textbooks to page 104. 
The students all quickly open their books and begin to flip through pages. 
The professor scans the classroom waiting for everyone to finish. 
Monty flips through his book but the page numbers seem all blurry to him. He can't make sense of them. 
MoNTY (V.O.)
128, 210, 171, 83. 
He flips back and forth in the textbook. Most of the other students have their books open to the correct page. A few students nearby look at him as he feverishly flips all around the book. 
The room is almost silent. The sound of Monty's PAGES FLIPPING is heard. The professor looks up at him. 
PrOFESSOR TUTTLE
Any day now, Mr. Mr.? 
Monty smiles, nervous.
MonTY
Murphy. 
The professor taps his foot on the ground. 
Monty's eyes follow his foot. His fingers continue to flip pages but his eyes focus on the foot. 
PrOFESSOR TUTTLE
Finding a page number is elementary. Perhaps you should revisit that before attending this class. 
A couple students CHUCKLE. 
Monty breathes deeply. 
All the students now look at him. Some smile and laugh, others point fingers and yet others roll their eyes. Monty lifts his hands and SLAMS the book shut. 
He lets out a deep breath. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - evENING
Monty walks through the front door. Mr. and Mrs. Murphy sit in the family room and watch television. Mrs. Murphy stands when she sees Monty. 
MrS. MURPHY
Oh, honey. How was your first day of college? 
MonTY
Fine. 
Mr. MURPHY
Learn anything? 
Monty thinks for a moment. 
MoNTY (V.O.)
Don't be made fun of. 
MoNTY (CONT'D)
Yeah. 
He walks out of the room. 
Mr. MURPHY
(to Mrs. Murphy)
See? Better already. 
INT. cOLLEGE CLASSROOM - dAY
A smaller classroom. Monty is seated at a desk near the back of the room. Everyone is focused on a test on their desk. 
Monty stares at the page before him. It's filled with complicated mathematical expressions. 
Monty scribbles numbers down in the blank section below a question. He looks at his own numbers in confusion. 
He connects the ends of each number and begins to draw a picture instead. 
He draws a few more images, one of a man on a boat and another of a dog. He looks around the room. The other students seem focused and in control. 
Monty scribbles over the images of the boat and dog angrily and crumples up his paper. He stands up and tosses the paper in the trash can at the front of the class as he leaves. 
The TEACHER tries to stop him. 
TeachER
But you didn't complete the test. 
MonTY
It's right there. 
Monty points at the trash can and leaves the room. 
EXT. Anderson COLLEGE - dAY
The campus is busy with students. Some walk from one building to another. Others sit on the retaining walls and benches and talk. 
Monty walks out of a building and squints in the bright sun. He looks around. He spots a couple girls and guys laughing together. He looks the other way. Several students lie on the grass and read textbooks. 
He spins around. Behind him a couple guys pick-up on girls. The girls smile slyly. One writes her phone number on a small piece of paper. 
A couple STUDENTS walk past him. 
Student #1
Did you find the algorithm for that equation? 
StudeNT #2
No, did you?
A couple more students pass in the opposite direction. 
StudENT #3
Fifteenth president of England? 
Student #4 starts to open his mouth. 
StUDENT #3 (CONT'D)
And city of birth. 
Student #4 looks confused. Monty's eyes dart from one student to another. The bright sun causes a blind spot. He looks back and forth more. 
Sweat drips from his forehead. 
MoNTY
I can't do this!
Monty rushes toward the parking lot. 
EXT. moNTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - daY
Monty sits on the front porch steps. He raises his hand to his forehead to block the sunlight. 
Across the street, kids play on the sidewalk. They smile and seem happy. 
Monty shakes his head. 
MoNTY
What's wrong with me? 
He watches the children and frowns. He picks up a rock and throws it across the street. Then he quickly rushes into the house. 
INT. moNTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - monTY'S ROOM - moments LATER
Monty closes the door to his room. A mirror stands propped on top of his dresser. 
He looks at himself in the mirror. 
MoNTY (V.O.)
Why so sad? 
He lifts the corners of his mouth with his fingers to form a smile. His eyes light up for a moment. His fingers release the corners of his mouth. His face drops and returns to a frown. His eyes darken with sadness. 
MONTY (CONT'D)
Nothing. 
Monty slumps over and sulks to his bed. He gets in and pulls the covers over his head. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - dINING ROOM - nIGHT
Mr. Murphy and Mrs. Murphy are seated at the dinner table. 
Mr. MURPHY
How was Monty's day today? 
MrS. MURPHY
I don't know. I haven't seen him. 
Mr. MURPHY 
What do you mean? 
Mrs. MURPHY
He hasn't come home. 
Mr. MURPHY 
His car is right outside. 
MrS. MURPHY
It is? 
Mrs. Murphy stands and walks to the window. She looks out and sees a car parked in front of the house. 
She looks confused. She walks down the hall to Monty's room and KNOCKS on the door. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - mONTY'S ROOM - same time
Monty lies in bed, the covers still over his head. A KNOCK on the door makes him jump. 
He rolls over and looks at his clock, 6:30. He grabs his head. 
MonTY
Shit. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - cONTINUOUS
Mrs. Murphy KNOCKS on the door again. 
MrS. MURPHY
Monty? Are you in there? 
MONTY (o.S.)
Yeah. 
Mrs. MURPHY
Well, honey, come on out for dinner. I'll fix you a plate. 
She half-smiles but her eyes show the confusion. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - mONTY'S ROOM - cONTINUOUS
Monty rolls over and shakes his head again. 
MoNTY
(to himself)
I don't want to get up. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - dINING ROOM - nIGHT
Mr. and Mrs. Murphy sit at the table and eat dinner. A third, untouched plate sits on the table. 
Monty drags his feet into the room. He rubs his eyes and plops down in a chair. 
Mr. MURPHY
Going to bed without dinner? 
MONTY
Something like that. 
Monty looks down at the plate of hamburger and beans. It doesn't look appetizing. 
MrS. MURPHY
How was school, darling?
Monty continues to look at his plate, in a daze. 
MonTY
What? What is this?
MrS. MURPHY
Your favorite of course, hamburger and beans. 
Monty pulls back his head, disgusted. He leans back in the chair. 
MonTY
Can I be excused?
MrS. MURPHY
But you haven't even touched your plate. 
MoNTY
Not real hungry tonight. 
Mr. MURPHY
No, you may not be excused. Now your mother asked how your school day was. Go on and answer her. 
Monty squishes his face around, his cheeks bulge then flatten. His parents look at him oddly. 
MONTY
It was...
He continues to contort his face around. 
MONTY (CONT'D)
Another day. 
He sits up straight. 
MoNTY (CONT'D)
May I be excused now? 
Mr. MURPHY
Not just yet. 
Mr. Murphy takes a bite of hamburger and tries to talk with a full mouth. 
Mr. MURPHY (CONT'D)
Why was your car here earlier today?
MonTY
Because I came home earlier. 
MrS. MURPHY
Did the professor release you early?
MonTY
More like cancelled class. 
Mr. MURPHY
Cancelled the class? I'm paying good money for those classes!
MONTY
I'm on scholarship. 
Mr. MURPHY
Yeah, from tax payer dollars. My dollars. 
MONTY
From a private donor. 
Mr. Murphy scowls. 
MrS. MURPHY
So what time are you going in tomorrow? 
MONTY
I don't know. 
Mr. MURPHY
What do you mean you don't know? 
MONTY
I don't know. 
Mr. MURPHY
What kind of answer is that? 
MonTY
I'm not going back. 
MrS. MURPHY
What?
Mrs. Murphy drops her fork. Monty takes a deep breath. 
MONTY
I'm not going back. 
MrS. MURPHY
But..but..
Mr. MURPHY
You're giving up?
MrS. MURPHY
You just started. It's only been a couple days, darling. Give it time. 
MONTY
Ten days. And no. I can't. I can't do it. 
Mr. MURPHY
What do you mean you can't do it? What kind of wimp are you? Your brother didn't give up after ten days. 
Monty glares at him. He stands up. 
MONTY
I'm excusing myself. 
He walks out of the room. Mr. and Mrs. Murphy look at each other, unsure what just happened. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - MONTY'S ROOM - nIGHT
Monty curls up in his bed. 
MonTY (V.O.)
Am I getting sick? Why do I feel like this? I'm not good enough. I suck. The world is dark and scary. I want to stay here forever. 
He pulls the covers over his head. 
MONTY (V.O.) (CONT'D)
Under cover. Where it's safe. Where I can hide away from the world. Where the only thing I fight is myself. 
EXT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME 
Night turns to day. The moon fades away and the sun rises. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - day
Mrs. Murphy KNOCKS on Monty's door, a plate of scrambled eggs and bacon in hand. 
MRS. MURPHY
Good morning, darling. I made breakfast. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - MONTY'S ROOM - sAME TIME
Monty pulls the covers from his head and looks around. He squints due to the sun shining through his windows. 
MoNTY
No thanks. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - cONTINUOUS
Mrs. Murphy wrinkles her forehead. 
MrS. MURPHY
You don't want breakfast?
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - MONTY'S ROOM - cONTINUOUS
Monty sits up and yells. 
MONTY
No! Go away!
He falls back down in bed. 
MONTY (CONT'D)
(to himself)
Make this all go away. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - cONTINUOUS
Mrs. Murphy's eyes widen and her jaw drops. 
She walks off into another room. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - MONTY'S ROOM - cONTINUOUS
Monty snuggles again with his sheets. 
MoNTY
Let's just make the world go away a bit longer. 
He pulls the covers back over his head. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - dining room - nIGHT
Mr. Murphy and Mrs. Murphy sit at the dinner table alone. 
MrS. MURPHY
He hasn't come out of there in five days. 
Mr. MURPHY
Has he eaten anything? 
Mrs. Murphy shakes her head. 
MrS. MURPHY
I left a plate for him today and it got cold before he ate it. The past few days he only emerged for a drink of water. 
Mr. MURPHY
He needs to get outdoors in the fresh air. Get a job working with his hands. 
MrS. MURPHY
I just don't understand. 
Mr. MURPHY
What has he got to be so upset about? 
MrS. MURPHY
His friend Charlie came by today. Monty didn't even really want to talk to him. 
Mr. Monty raises an eyebrow. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
Charlie said he just sat there looking sad. 
Mr. MURPHY
You think he's sick?
MrS. MURPHY
Haven't heard him cough and he doesn't seem to have a fever. He always gets those red cheeks when he's hot, I haven't noticed them being red, have you?
Mr. Murphy shakes his head. 
Mr. MURPHY
How could I? I haven't seen him in days. He put a lock on his door you know. 
MrS. MURPHY
Where in the world would he even get one? 
Mr. MURPHY
The hardware store. 
MrS. MURPHY
I know, but when? 
Mr. MURPHY
He's a teenage boy. I'm surprised this didn't happen sooner. 
MrS. MURPHY
Well what are we to do then, let him starve himself to death in misery in there?
Mr. Murphy shrugs. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
I'm going to call the pastor. He always knows what to do in situations like these. 
Mrs. Murphy rises from the table and walks to the phone. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - day
Mrs. Murphy and Mr. Murphy sit on the coach, anxious. They look at each other and sigh. 
The DOORBELL rings. 
Mrs. Murphy jumps to her feet and rushes to the door. She opens the front door to reveal the PASTOR, 60s, heavily wrinkled. 
MrS. MURPHY
Good morning, pastor. Thank you so much for coming. 
The pastor steps into the house. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
He's right this way. 
Mrs. Murphy leads him to the hallway. She stops in front of Monty's door and KNOCKS. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
Monty, dear. The pastor is here and he'd like a word with you. 
She smiles at the pastor nervously and twiddles her fingers. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - MONTY'S ROOM - saME TIME
Monty lies in bed.  There's a KNOCK. He doesn't hear it. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - cONTINUOUS
Mrs. Murphy KNOCKS again. 
MrS. MURPHY
Monty! The pastor is here!
INT. moNTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - MONTY'S ROOM - cONTINUOUS
Monty turns toward the door, SIGHS and then rolls back on his side. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - cONTINUOUS
Mrs. Murphy KNOCKS again. She fiddles with the handle. It's locked. 
Frustrated she BANGS on the door with all her might. The pastor looks at her, shocked. 
MrS. MURPHY
Monty!!!
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - MONTY'S ROOM - cONTINUOUS
Monty rolls over and looks at the door. 
MrS. MURPHY (o.S.)
Monty!!!
He slowly gets up and opens the door. The pastor stands before him. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
I knocked like ten times. Didn't you hear me? 
MonTY
Yeah. 
MrS. MURPHY
So why didn't you answer? 
He shrugs. 
MONTY
Didn't feel like it. 
Pastor
What do you feel like doing? 
MONTY
Nothing. 
Pastor looks to Mrs. Murphy. 
PasTOR
We need a few minutes. 
Mrs. Murphy nods and walks away. 
PasTOR (CONT'D)
May I?
Monty signals him in and closes the door behind him. Pastor looks around the room at the posters on the wall, books tossed off the bookcase and clothes all over the floor. He tries not to step on anything. 
PasTOR (CONT'D)
So, your folks say you haven't wanted to do much lately? 
MONTY
Is that a crime? 
PasTOR
No. 
MonTY
Is it a sin?
PasTOR
(laughs)
No. 
MoNTY
Then why is everyone so crazy about it?
PasTOR
They're worried about you is all. They care. They want you to be happy. 
MONTY
I don't know if that's possible. 
PasTOR
Why do you say that?
MONTY
I haven't felt happy in a long time. 
Pastor sits on the bed. 
PasTOR
I heard your friends stopped by. 
Monty nods. 
MoNTY
A couple times. 
PasTOR
Are they in college now?
Monty nods. 
PasTOR (CONT'D)
Do you want to go to college?
MONTY
I did. 
PasTOR
Did you?
MONTY
For ten days. 
PasTOR
Ten days? Why so short?
MoNTY
I didn't belong. 
Pastor looks at him, puzzled. 
PasTOR
Is there something you'd like to tell me, son? I won't tell your parents. You've got God's word on that. 
Monty kicks his feet around as he sits on the bed. 
MONTY
I just want to be happy again. But I don't know how. I want to feel...
PasTOR
Yes?
MONTY
I want to feel...
Pastor waits for a completion. 
MoNTY (CONT'D)
Normal. 
Pastor lowers his head and takes a deep breath. He grabs Monty's hands. 
PasTOR
Let us pray. 
Monty lowers his head and closes his eyes. 
INT. psychiatrist office - waiting room - dAY
Mr. and Mrs. Murphy sit in the waiting room. Mrs. Murphy's knee shakes. Mr. Murphy rests his hand on her knee to stop it. He stares at the door. A sign reads "Dr. Phillip Meredith, Psychiatrist."  
The door opens. 
The RECEPTIONIST stands in the doorway. 
Receptionist
Dr. Meredith would like to see you now. 
Mr. and Mrs. Murphy stand and walk into the back room. 
INT. pSYCHIATRIST OFFICE - momENTS LATER
A large, spacious office full of windows and unusual things to look at.  
Monty lies on a couch. DR. Meredith, 40s, thin, glasses, sits on a large plush chair beside him. He stands as Mr. and Mrs. Murphy enter. 
Dr. Meredith
Mr. Murphy. 
He shakes his hand. 
Dr. Meredith (CONT'D)
Mrs. Murphy. 
He shakes her hand as well. 
Dr. Meredith (CONT'D)
Please. 
He gestures to a large couch opposite of Monty. He stares at a painting on the wall of a beautiful woman and a partially exposed breast. 
Mr. MURPHY
So what is it, doc? 
Dr. Meredith takes a deep breath and leans forward in his seat. 
Dr. Meredith
You have a remarkable son. Very intelligent. But...
Mr. MURPHY
But what? This is an embarrassment to our family.
Dr.Meredith
Monty has the classic symptoms of depression. 
MrS. MURPHY
Depression?
Dr. Meredith
It's very common amongst young people at a big change in their lives. 
MrS. MURPHY
Monty, you're depressed sweetheart?
Monty doesn't even look in her direction. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
But why would he be depressed? 
Dr. Meredith
It's not necessarily a reason of why but how. You see the brain is a very complex mechanism and sometimes the levels change making us feel different. Very much like how an engine of a car performs different if the oil levels drop significantly. 
Mr. MURPHY
So you're saying he needs more fluid?
Dr. Meredith smirks. 
Dr. Meredith
I'm saying we just need to even out those levels a bit. I'm prescribing Monty a couple antidepressants. These are just regular medications you can get at any pharmacy. 
MrS. MURPHY
So he needs drugs? 
Dr. Meredith
Prescription medication. 
MrS. MURPHY
Oh my.
Dr. Meredith
Now you should know that it's going to be a long road. Lots of ups and downs. He may have good days and bad days. 
Mr. MURPHY
What do you mean by bad days? 
Dr. Meredith looks at Mr. Murphy for a moment then changes the subject. 
Dr. Meredith
Monty said he's having some issues with his self-esteem...
Mr. Murphy leans back and SIGHS. 
DR. Meredith (CONT'D)
There are some things you can do to help, you know, boost things. 
Mrs. Murphy nods, ready to hear more. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - kitchen - daY
Monty grabs a bag of chips out of the cupboard. He opens it and shoves a few in his mouth. 
Mrs. Murphy walks in. 
MrS. MURPHY
Did you take your medicine today? 
Monty shrugs. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
What does that mean? 
He shrugs again. 
MoNTY
I don't know. 
MrS. MURPHY
Monty, this is very important. You need to take this medicine everyday. 
She grabs a prescription bottle off the counter, opens it and dumps a pill into the palm of her hand. She does the same with a second bottle. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
Here. Take them. 
She puts her hand out in front of Monty. He looks at the pills then returns to his chips. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
Do you need water? I'll get you some water. 
Mrs. Murphy quickly grabs a cup and fills it with water. She tries to hands it to Monty along with the pills. Monty stares at the bottles of medication on the counter.  
MonTY
Wonder if I took them all at once if it would make this go away? 
Mrs. Murphy looks at him, puzzled. 
MrS. MURPHY
What do you mean...make it all go away? 
Monty looks out the window. 
MONTY
Make daytime night. Make the flowers turn to ash. Make this world of pain feel better. 
Mrs. Murphy's expression turns to that of worry. 
MrS. MURPHY
Just take these pills, son. It will get better. The doctor said so, remember? 
Monty shakes head. 
MoNTY
It's been three weeks. I don't feel any different. 
MrS. MURPHY
But...
MonTY
I just want to make it go away. 
He stares at her, his eyes piercing. Mrs. Murphy moves toward the phone, uneasy. 
MrS. MURPHY
Why don't you go watch some television, honey. I think your favorite program is on. 
Monty stares at her for another moment then walks out of the room. 
Mrs. Murphy quickly dials the phone and brings it to her ear. 
MrS. MURPHY (CONT'D)
This isn't working. He needs something else. 
EXT. psychiatric unit - dAY
A hospital wing. A sign over the entry reads "Psychiatric Unit." 
INT. pSYCHIATRIC UNIT - dAY
Monty is strapped down to a hospital bed. 
DR. Meredith
We're going to inject this in your arm. 
Monty nods, nervous. Dr. Meredith and a nurse insert an IV into his arm. 
DR. Meredith (CONT'D)
Now your body will shake and you may smell onions, okay?  
MrS. MURPHY
I hope these electric...electric...
Mr. MURPHY
Electric shock treatments. 
MrS. MURPHY
Yeah. I hope these work. 
 
EXT. psYCHIATRIC UNIT - dAY
Monty walks out of the hospital, happy. A big smile on his face. Mr. and Mrs. Murphy follow him, happy as well. 
MrS. MURPHY
It's so nice to see him smile again. 
Mr. MURPHY
Only took six electric shock treatments. 
MrS. MURPHY
I'm so glad those are over. 
They walk toward their white car. Monty walks toward a red truck. Mrs. Murphy looks at him, confused. 
Mrs. MURPHY (CONT'D)
Monty, where are you going? That isn't our car. 
Monty looks at the red truck and smiles. 
MoNTY
Yes it is. 
Mr. MURPHY
No, it's not son. 
MONTY
But...
Monty's smile fades for a moment. He looks at the truck, confused. 
Mr. Murphy gets into the white car and starts the engine. Mrs. Murphy continues to watch Monty. Finally, Monty walks toward their car. He opens the passenger door and looks back at the red truck. 
MoNTY (CONT'D)
I thought we had a red truck. 
He shakes his head. 
MONTY (CONT'D)
Weird. 
INT. pSYCHIATRIST OFFICE - dAY
Dr. Meredith and Monty sit across from each other on couches. 
Dr. Meredith
So, how's it going? 
MONTY
Not good. I don't fit in. 
Dr. Meredith
What do you mean, you don't fit in? 
MONTY
Things are different. 
Dr. Meredith
How so?
MonTY
I feel like a man inside but it's like I'm still a kid now. And I don't know why. Everything I used to remember is different. I thought we had a red truck. 
Dr. Meredith
And you don't?
Monty shakes his head. 
MoNTY
Dad says we've never had a red truck. He said we had a black one once. But we have a white car now. 
Dr. Meredith scribbles a couple notes. 
Dr. Meredith
Any other memory related things?
MONTY
Memory things?
Dr. Meredith sets down his notebook and adjusts his glasses. 
Dr. Meredith
The nurses did explain that some memory loss was normal, didn't they?
MoNTY
I don't remember. 
Dr. Meredith holds back a chuckle. 
Dr. Meredith
Well, sometimes with electric shock therapy your brain starts reorganizing things. Things you thought you knew are suddenly different like you said. 
MONTY
So what do I do about that? I'm not happy anymore. I was for like a couple days...I think. But not now. It's like....it's like the sun comes out and everything's nice for a moment then it goes dark again for the rest of the day. That's not happiness, right? 
Dr. Meredith
Can we keep this in confidence? 
Monty nods. 
Dr. Meredith (CONT'D)
I think you're a bit too sheltered. You should get out in the world more. Live on your own. Live your own life. 
MonTY
I should move out?
The doctor nods. 
Dr. Meredith
I think it would be best for you. 
MonTY
But..but how? I have no money or real things. 
Dr. Meredith
Get a job. That will do a world of good for you. Give you some real life experience. You'll feel like a new man earning your own way and being in charge. 
Monty looks around the room, unsure. All of a sudden he smirks. 
MoNTY
If that's what you think is best. 
Dr. Meredith
It will make you happy. 
MONTY
Anything to be happy. 
EXT. old apartment building - dAY
Monty walks up the stairs of an old, broken down apartment building. He carries a box with clothes and a couple books. 
INT. monty's apartment - dAY
Monty sits in the middle of the floor. The apartment is nearly empty. There's a bed and a couple boxes with basic clothing, a few books and other items. 
Monty hugs his knees and stares at the walls. 
MONTY
Not happy yet, doc. 
INT. gas station - dAY
Monty stands behind the register with the STATION MANAGER. 
Station manager
Now always remember to enter your code before you open the register. And don't forget, no freebies. 
Monty nods as he watches the manager close the register cash drawer. The manager walks away. 
A CUSTOMER walks up to the cash register with a bag of chips and a coffee in hand. 
MONTY
Is that all? 
Customer
What do you mean is that all? 
MoNTY
I mean..hi, anything else? 
The customer looks around at the shelf of cigarettes behind Monty. 
CuSTOMER
Uh, give me a pack of Marlboros. 
Monty turns and looks at the shelf. His vision becomes blurry. He searches for the pack but can't seem to focus on it. 
CuSTOMER (CONT'D)
Right there. 
He points to the right side of the shelf. 
CuSTOMER (CONT'D)
The ones with the writing that say Marlboro. 
Monty continues to search. His fingers reach up and scan over the boxes. 
CuSTOMER (CONT'D)
Right..right there. 
Monty's fingers touch a box. 
CuSTOMER (CONT'D)
Yeah, those ones. 
Monty grabs the box and sets it on the counter. A few people now wait in line. 
Monty looks at the cash register. 
MoNTY
(to himself)
Type in code. 
Monty presses a few buttons. Nothing happens. He tries again. Again, nothing happens. 
The customer becomes impatient. 
CuSTOMER
I'm kinda in a hurry here. 
Monty nods. 
MoNTY
Just...just one moment. 
He tries to type in the numbers again. Nothing. He looks up and the line is nearly out the door. 
Monty fiddles with the register. A bead of sweat drips down his face. 
CuSTOMER
Just ring it up already!
Monty looks at the man, frustrated and angry. 
MonTY
I'm trying! 
The manager comes out from the back and sees the line. He rushes to the register and shoves Monty out of the way. 
EXT. oLD APARTMENT BUILDING - eVENING
Monty drags his feet as he walks up the stairs to his apartment. 
The LANDLORD, 60s, sagging make-up, overly done gray hair, stands in front of his door. 
Monty drops his head. 
Landlord
It's been ten days, Monty. You're past due. 
MoNTY
I just lost my job. 
LanDLORD
Sorry to hear that but you're still due. 
MonTY
I just need a week. I'll find another job. 
LanDLORD
That's what you said last week. You did and you just lost it. Time to move out. 
MonTY
But--
LaNDLORD
You have til four o'clock. 
MonTY
I have no where to go. 
LANDLORD
There's a motel down on Smith Street. Charges by the week. Try there. 
Monty nods. The landlord walks away. Monty puts his head against the wall and pounds his fist on the door. 
MONTY
Dammit! 
INT. psYCHIATRIC UNIT - dAY
Monty is strapped down to a bed. Dr. Meredith and a nurse stand over him. 
Dr. Meredith
You know the routine.
MonTY
Make it strong. I want to be happy this time. 
The nurse places a needle in his arm. Dr. Meredith pushes a button. 
INT. motel - nIGHT
Monty hands the man behind the counter cash. The man hands him a key. 
INT. psYCHIATRIC UNIT - dAY
Monty seizures. His whole body shakes and his eyes roll into the back of his head. 
EXT. park - dAY
Monty pushes a candy cart around. He rings a BELL. Several small children run toward him. All the kids YELL and SCREAM, excitedly. 
He covers his ears and winces. The kids continue to SCREAM. He runs away from the cart. 
INT. psYCHIATRIC UNIT - dAY
Monty continues to seizure. His eyes flutter open and closed. 
EXT. city streets - eVENING
Monty walks on the sidewalk alongside a strip mall. It's a sketchy part of town. 
He looks around, confused. 
MoNTY
I thought it was this way. 
He reads the street sign. It says "Jefferson." 
MoNTY (CONT'D)
Jefferson? Where's that? I need Smith. 
A lost dog rubs up against his leg. He leans down to pet him and the dog nips at him. Monty jumps back, scared. 
A homeless man sits on a bench and LAUGHS at him. 
Monty holds his nipped hand and calls out to the man. 
MoNTY (CONT'D)
Excuse me, do you know which way Smith Street is? 
The homeless man snarls. 
Homeless man
It'll cost ya. 
MoNTY
I don't got nothing on me. Just got fired. Again. 
HomeLESS MAN
Story of my life. 
The homeless man laughs. Monty backs away slowly. 
MONTY
(to himself)
Where is the hotel?
He looks left then right. The whole world seems to be spinning around him. 
INT. psYCHIATRIST OFFICE - dAY
MoNTY
I can't think straight. 
He sits on the couch across from Dr. Meredith. 
MoNTY (CONT'D)
I got lost coming home from work yesterday. I couldn't find my motel. 
Dr. Meredith
I see. 
MoNTY
I'm about ready to do it. 
Dr. Meredith
Do what?
INT. moNTY'S motel room - nIGHT
A dingy little motel room with a single bed, dresser and small television. Monty paces back and forth in front of the bed. He looks at the bed. On the center of the bed lies a shot gun. 
The phone RINGS. 
He looks at the phone in the corner of the room. It continues to RING. He doesn't answer. He looks at the shot gun again. 
INT. mONTY'S CHILDHOOD HOME - saME TIME
Mrs. Murphy paces. She holds the phone to her ear. Mr. Murphy sits on the couch reading a newspaper. 
MrS. MURPHY
He isn't picking up. 
Mr. MURPHY
Maybe he's out with friends. 
Mrs. Murphy hangs up and then dials again. 
INT. grocery store - dAY
Monty stocks shelves in a grocery store. He places several boxes of cereal on a shelf. He goes to reach for another bundle and knocks down the entire row of boxes. A SUPERVISOR glares at him and points to the exit door. 
Monty SIGHS and drags his feet toward the door. 
INT. monty's motel room - nIGHT
The shot gun lies on the bed again. Monty paces. He holds his head in frustration. 
He walks toward the phone and dials. 
MoNTY
Hello? Fred? 
(beat)
Yeah, it's me. Hey, I need a favor. 
(beat)
I need you to come get a gun for me. 
(beat)
Why? 
Monty shuffles his feet around. 
MONTY (CONT'D)
Because I'm afraid of what I might do with it. I need to you protect me against myself. 
INT. psYCHIATRIC UNIT - dAY
Monty is strapped to the hospital bed. He seizures and SCREAMS. Dr. Meredith shakes his head at the nurse. 
INT. psYCHIATRIST OFFICE - dAY
Dr. Meredith writes on a piece of paper. 
Dr. Meredith
I'm afraid your case has become too complicated. I'm referring you to the South Carolina State Hospital. 
He hands Monty the piece of paper. 
MonTY
You're giving up on me? 
Dr. Meredith
They're better suited for cases like yours. 
MonTY
What's that supposed to mean? 
Dr. Meredith
Trust me, you'll like it there. 
MoNTY
Will I be happy?
Dr. Meredith removes his glasses and polishes them on his shirt. 
Dr. Meredith
That's up to you. 
INT. south carolina state hospital - dAY
A large, open room. Several people sit on chairs in a circle. The THERAPIST talks to everyone.  
Therapist
Thank you for sharing, Clarence. 
CLARENCE, an older, balding man, nods. TANYA, 30s, sits beside him. 
TherAPIST (CONT'D)
And now, Tanya, how do you feel about that? 
Tanya looks nervously at her hands and fiddles with them. 
Tanya
I don't know. 
ThERAPIST
Can you tell me why you don't know?
She shrugs. 
TherAPIST (CONT'D)
Tanya...
TanYA
It's just...it's just...
TheRAPIST
Yes. 
TaNYA
It's like there's a lot of stuff going on in my head and I can't tell which is which or what is what. 
TheRAPIST
So you have trouble separating your feelings? 
Tanya nods. 
ThERAPIST (CONT'D)
That's common. Does anyone else here have trouble separating their feelings?
A few hands raise. The therapist looks around at the group. 
ThERAPIST (CONT'D)
Good. 
A few more hands raise. Monty frowns. 
ThERAPIST (CONT'D)
How about you...
The therapist looks down at a sheet of paper. 
ThERAPIST (CONT'D)
...Monty. 
Monty looks up. 
ThERAPIST (CONT'D)
Do you have trouble separating your feelings? 
Monty thinks for a moment. 
MONTY
No. 
TherAPIST
Really. And how do you do that? 
MonTY
I don't know what my feelings are. 
ThERAPIST
What do you mean? 
MonTY
I don't know how I'm feeling so there's nothing to separate. 
ThERAPIST
But you must be feeling something. 
MonTY
I'm sure I am. But I don't know what that is so how can I work on it? 
ThERAPIST
Well are you angry? Are you sad?
MoNTY
I don't quite know anymore. Sure I get sad sometimes. And sometimes I'm angry. But I don't know why or when. 
The therapist eyes him for a moment then turns to the group. 
TherAPIST
So Clarence, how does what Monty just said make you feel? 
Clarence
It makes me happy. 
He grins widely. 
ThERAPIST
It does? 
Clarence's smile fades. 
ClaRENCE
Should it make me sad? I can do that one too. 
He scowls. 
INT. sOUTH CAROLINA STATE HOSPITAL - individual room - dAY
A small room with a table and two chairs. Monty sits across from a REHABILITATION COUNSELOR. 
MonTY
How many counselors do I have to see?
Rehabilitation counselor

A lot. 
MonTY
Why?
ReHABILITATION COUNSELOR
Well, we all have our specialities. You know we have our niches. What is it you did before you came here?
MoNTY
Sat around feeling sad. 
ReHABILITATION COUNSELOR
Did you ever work anywhere? 
MONTY
Yeah. 
The rehabilitation counselor writes notes in a folder. 
ReHABILITATION COUNSELOR
Where?
MonTY
Lots of places. A grocery store, gas station, door to door sales, a mini mart. You name it. 
ReHABILITATION COUNSELOR
And which one was your favorite?
MonTY
Selling pot. 
The rehabilitation looks up quickly, eyes wide. 
RehABILITATION COUNSELOR
You sold pot...and how was that? 
MonTY
Thrilling. Great money. 
The rehabilitation counselor swallows hard. 
MONTY (CONT'D)
Used to sell to little kids at recess. They loved the stuff. 
The counselor sits motionless, unsure what to say. 
MONTY (CONT'D)
I was joking, okay? A joke? Ha, ha, laugh, laugh, funny, funny. You guys do know what that is around here, don't you? 
The counselor relaxes. 
Rehabilitation Counselor
Yes. We do use humor. 
(beat)
So Monty, what is it you really want to do with your life? What would be your ideal job? 
Monty leans back in his chair. 
MoNTY
I have no idea. 
Montage - south carolina hospital - dAY
Monty sits in the circle with the large group. The therapist uses his arms widely as he talks. 
Monty sits with the counselor and talks openly and freely. 
Monty plays card games with some of the patients. 
The therapist nods happily and smiles at Monty. 
Monty talks with others at the facility. 
INT. sOUTH CAROLINA STATE HOSPITAL - iNDIVIDUAL ROOM - dAY
The rehabilitation counselor sits across from Monty. 
ReHABILITATION COUNSELOR
So it's been a few months now since you began. How do you feel about your time here? 
MoNTY
Are we really still doing the "how do you feel" questions? 
The counselor sets her pen down. 
ReHABILITATION COUNSELOR
Alright. What would you like to talk about? Wait, I should say, speak freely. 
MoNTY
Thank you. 
He smiles. 
MoNTY (CONT'D)
So how are you doing?  
ReHABILITATION COUNSELOR
I'm sorry, what? 
MonTY
How are you doing today? Anything on your mind? Any plans for the weekend? 
ReHABILITATION COUNSELOR
That isn't really appropriate. I ask the questions, not the other way around. 
MonTY
You said speak freely. 
ReHABILITATION COUNSELOR
Let's keep it pertained to you. 
MonTY
I think I know what I want to do. 
ReHABILITATION COUNSELOR
Waiting with baited breath. 
MonTY
I want to be you. 
ReHABILITATION COUNSELOR
Me? 
MonTY
I want to do rehabilitation. I think I'd be good at. I have some real work experience, you know. 
ReHABILITATION COUNSELOR
While that is true I'm not sure--
MonTY
I'm going to do it with or without your help. 
The counselor SIGHS. 
ReHABILITATION COUNSELOR
There's a mental health technician program--
MonTY
I'm in. 
Monty sits up proudly and smiles. 
INT. monTY'S motel room - nIGHT
Monty sits on the bed and reads through a book. Several books are stacked high on the night stand. 
He looks frustrated but continues on. 
MonTY
(to himself)
I have that. I do that all the time. 
He scribbles some notes on a note pad. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
(to himself)
I have that too. I always feel things crawling on me after showers.
He scribbles more notes. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
Man, I'm screwed up. 
He writes another note. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
Guess I'll be able to relate to a lot of people. 
EXT. monTY'S motel room - day
Monty leaves the motel complex. He stops in the front office. 
INT. motel lobby - momENTS LATER
Monty places money on the counter. The DESK ATTENDANT takes it.  
MoNTY
This weeks payment. 
Desk attendant
Thanks. Good luck on your test. 
MonTY
Thanks. 
He heads out the door. 
INT. rehabilitation facility room - dAY
An undecorated room with a few desks and tables. Monty and a few other people stare intently at a packet of paper and fill in answers. 
Monty stares up at the ceiling, thinking hard. He bites his lip and closes his eyes. Then his eyes open and he quickly writes on the packet. 
INT. reHABILITATION FACILITY ROOM - nIGHT
Monty shakes the hand of a man dressed in a suit. The man hands him a certificate with a seal on it. 
Monty grins as another person takes a photo of them together. Then Monty walks away and another person does the same as he did. 
Mrs. Murphy and Mr. Murphy wait for him in the corner of the room. Mrs. Murphy wraps her arms around him. 
MrS. MURPHY
We're so proud. Now where do you want to go celebrate? 
MONTY
If it's all the same to you I actually already have plans. There's somewhere I need to visit. 
EXT. hosPITAL - nIGHT
Monty stands out the hospital and takes a deep breath. He walks inside. 
INT. hospital - cONTINUOUS
Monty walks into the hospital and approaches the FRONT DESK PERSON. 
MonTY
Dr. Meredith, please. 
Front desk person
Let me see if he's in. 
She picks up the phone and dials. 
frONT DESK PERSON (CONT'D)
Hi Dr. Meredith, sorry to bother you. I have a young man here...
MonTY
Monty Murphy. 
FrONT DESK PERSON
Monty Murphy. Would you like--
Monty looks around the hospital, he's a bit uneasy. 
FrONT DESK PERSON (CONT'D)
Alright, I'll do that. 
She hangs up the phone. 
FrONT DESK PERSON (CONT'D)
He said you can see him. 
She stands up. 
FrONT DESK PERSON (CONT'D)
I'll show you the--
MoNTY
I know where it is. 
He half-smiles. 
MoNTY (CONT'D)
Thanks. 
He walks down a hallway. 
INT. dr. Meredith's office - momENTS LATER
Monty KNOCKS on the open door. 
Dr. Meredith
Come in. 
Monty walks through the doorway. Dr. Meredith rises.
Dr. Meredith (CONT'D)
Monty Murphy. 
He extends his hand. Monty shakes it. 
Dr. Meredith (CONT'D)
Nice to see you again. How are things? 
MonTY
Not too bad. 
Dr. Meredith
So what do I owe today's visit to? A relapse of symptoms? 
MoNTY
I'd like a job. 
Dr. meredith
I'm not sure I'm the right person to talk to. I'm a psychiatrist not a head hunter. 
Monty places his certificate on Dr. Meredith's desk. 
MONTY
I want a job here. 
Dr. Meredith puts his glasses on and reads the certificate, Associate Degree of Science in Human Services. 
DR. Meredith
Monty, this is very impressive but you were a patient here. I can't hire a patient to work--
MonTY
I'm not a patient anymore. 
Dr. Meredith
It's against protocol. 
MonTY
You make protocol. 
Dr. Meredith
But how would it look?
MonTY
Have you ever been so depressed you put together fifteen different plots of how you'll kill yourself and what to write in your suicide note? Have you ever stayed awake for five days straight because you're scared to go to sleep because the nightmares are so bad you actually wake up with bruises? 
Dr. Meredith is silent. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
I know what it's like to have a brain like this. I know how it feels. When everyone's telling they understand and they want you to be better...
He shakes his head. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
It means nothing. But when someone like me tells them the truth. That it's going to get better. That depression is painful.  I’ve been clinically depressed.  It is important to take your medication regularly to get better...when they hear that they can actually start to move on. Because they know they're not alone. 
Dr. Meredith listens intently. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
And when they see what I've done with my life. And how I've made it this far. That will make them want to do it too. I can inspire them to make a change that you can't. You need me. 
Dr. Meredith studies him. 
DR. Meredith
You know the staff will likely treat you differently because they only know you from the other side. 
MonTY
That's alright. 
Dr. Meredith
And the hours are sometimes long. 
MONTY
I can handle it. 
DR. Meredith
And the pay will stink as a starting assistant. 
MonTY
Are you going to hire me or not?
Dr. Meredith smiles. 
DR. Meredith
You start Monday. 
Monty jumps out of his seat with excitement. He shakes Dr. Meredith’s hand over and over again. 
MonTY
Thank you, thank you so much. 
Monty grins from ear to ear. 
INT. hOSPITAL ROOM - dAY
Monty holds down a patient and fixes the straps. Dr. Meredith takes a needle and injects it into the patient. 
Dr. Meredith
You're going to smell onions. 
Dr. Meredith nods to Monty.
Monty steps back. 
Dr. Meredith pushes a button on a machine. 
The patient spasms and seizures. His body convulses. 
Monty watches horrified. He turns to look away. 
Dr. Meredith pushes another button. The patient relaxes. 
Monty turns back to look at him then removes the restraints. He helps the patient sit up slowly. The man suddenly smiles. 
Monty frowns. 
Dr. Meredith walks out of the room. Monty follows him. 
Dr. Meredith (CONT'D)
Good work. 
They continue down a hallway. 
Dr. Meredith (CONT'D)
But next time hold him down harder. Sometimes they like to fight. They don't think they want the treatment. But they really do. 
Monty thinks. He opens his mouth to say something then stops. He simply follows Dr. Meredith. 
INT. monTY'S mOTEL ROOM - nIGHT
Monty walks in with a frown on his face. He shuts the door behind him and locks it. He slides down the door and sinks to the floor. 
MONTY
What a day. 
He looks at the night stand. He closes his eyes. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
You don't need it. 
He squints his eyes hard. 
CUT TO:
INT. hOSPITAL ROOM - dAY
Dr. Meredith takes the needle and sticks it into Monty's arm. 
Dr. Meredith
You're going to smell onions. 
Monty cringes and squints his eyes. His eyes start to flutter. Dr. Meredith pushes a button on a machine beside the bed. Monty's body goes into a small seizure. 
BACK TO:
InT.  monTY'S MOTEL ROOM - nIGHT
Monty opens his eyes. He looks at the night stand. He stands up, walks over to it and opens the large drawer on the bottom. Inside is a bottle of Jack Daniels. 
He grabs the bottle and looks at it. 
He SIGHS and opens the lid. He takes a swig. He scowls and sticks out his tongue but still takes another drink. 
INT. hOSPITAL ROOM - dAY
A patient undergoes electric shock therapy. She convulses and seizures.
Monty watches, squinting and shielding his eyes. 
He slips out of the room. 
INT. hospital break room - momENTS LATER
Several NURSES, DOCTORS and other staff talk. Some drink coffee or snack on bagels. 
The atmosphere is lively and upbeat. Everyone jokes and LAUGHS. 
Monty walks in. A couple nurses look over. They immediately turn their backs and begin to whisper. 
Monty nods to a doctor. 
MonTY
Good afternoon, doctor. 
The doctor nods back then grabs his coffee cup and leaves the room. 
Monty goes to the vending machine and inserts a dollar. He looks at all the option; chips, candy, crackers, colas. 
Behind him the nurses whisper to each other. 
Nurse #1
He's just kind of weird. 
Nurse #2
I know. Can you imagine one of your patients taking care of you? 
NURSE #1
It's unsafe. 
NURSE #2
He's not stable. 
Monty presses "E8" for a bag of chips. 
The machine CLICKS and the lever moves to push the chips out. The bag of chips hangs onto the edge and doesn't fall down. 
Monty tries pushing the change button to make something happen. 
MonTY
What? 
He shakes the machine. The bag of chips doesn't budge. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
Come on. 
He hits the side of the machine. 
The nurses turn and watch him. 
NuRSE #2
See what I mean. 
Monty hits the machine again then walks out of the room upset. 
EXT. moNTY'S motel room - nIGHT
Monty walks down the concrete path with a paper bag covered bottle in hand. He drinks from the bottle. 
INT. moNTY'S motel room - momENTS LATER
Monty stumbles into his room. There are empty alcohol bottles all over the floor. 
He continues to drink from his paper bag covered bottle and falls onto his bed. The drink spills all over the bed. 
MonTY
You're helping people. You're helping people, Monty. Believe that. 
INT. hOSPITAL ROOM - dAY
A PATIENT kicks and SCREAMS. 
Patient
You won't take me alive!
Dr. Meredith, Monty and a nurse try to restrain him on the bed. 
DR. Meredith
Monty, get his arm. 
Monty reaches for the man's arm and pushes it down. The man leans into Monty and bites his ear. 
MonTY
Aghhhh!
Monty releases the man and grabs his ear. 
Dr. Meredith
What? Monty grab him!
MonTY
He bit my ear! 
Dr. Meredith
I don't care. Hold him!
Monty grabs the man's arm and pushes it down forcefully. 
He glares at the man as the nurse tightens the restraints. 
DR. Meredith (CONT'D)
You're going to smell onions. 
Dr. Meredith injects a needle in the man's arm.  
The man convulses and seizures. 
Monty's angry scowl turns to sadness. His eyes droop and begin to fill with tears. 
He rushes out of the room. 
INT. hospital hallway - cONTINUOUS
Monty breathes heavily. 
MONTY
What am I doing? This isn't helping people. 
The staff all stop and stare at him. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
(yells)
This isn't helping people!
A nurse comes over to him and leans into her ear. 
NuRSE #3
I can smell it on your breath. Stop now. 
Monty glares at her and walks down the hall, out the exit doors. 
INT. hospital - dAY
Monty enters. The woman at the front desk stops him. 
FrONT DESK PERSON
Mr. Murphy. 
Monty stops. 
FrONT DESK PERSON (CONT'D)
This is for you. 
She hands him a file. 
He looks at it, curiously. 
MoNTY
Thank you. 
He walks down the hall. 
INT. hosPITAL HALLWAY - cONTINUOUS
Monty opens the file folder. Inside is a job description print out. 
It reads "Seeking case managers - personalized private care." 
Monty closes the file quickly and frowns. His eyes narrow in anger. He stomps down the hall. 
INT. dR. Meredith'S OFFICE - momENTS LATER
Monty storms into the office and throws the file onto the desk violently. 
MonTY
Trying to get rid of me? 
DR. Meredith
What are you talking about? 
MONTY
Don't play dumb. 
He points to the file. Dr. Meredith looks at it and opens it. He reads the first couple lines. 
Dr. Meredith
This sounds like a wonderful opportunity. 
MonTY
Yeah, you should know. 
DR. Meredith
Monty, I didn't do this. Someone else must have put this together for you. 
Monty's frown fades. 
DR. Meredith (CONT'D)
But while we're on the topic I think I advise you that this would be in your best interest. 
MONTY
What is that supposed to mean? 
DR. Meredith
I think you agree, things aren't working out here so well. 
MonTY
I want to help people. Shocking them within an inch of their lives isn't helping them. 
Dr. Meredith
Well, that's debatable. But if you want to help people I say go ahead. I think you should apply for the job. 
Dr. Meredith hands the file back to Monty. 
DR. Meredith (CONT'D)
I think you'd be a very good case manager. 
Monty raises an eyebrow. 
MonTY
Hhh. Never thought about it. 
Dr. Meredith raises a suggestive eyebrow. 
INT. Mental Health Center - dAY
Monty sits at a table and fills out paperwork. 
He turns to the next page. 
The top of the page reads "check if you have any of these conditions." There's a long list on things with a small square beside each item. 
Monty scans down the list. "Depression" stands out. "Bi-Polar" catches his eye. 
MoNTY (V.O.)
What they don't know can't hurt. 
He goes down to the bottom and checks the box beside "None." 
INT. state facility - dAY
Monty walks through the facility with the MANAGING DIRECTOR.  
Managing director
Now many of your cases will involve a lot of home visits but you'll also be spending time here with groups and of course doing paperwork. 
They approach a group session in progress. JONNIE, a beautiful woman, sits with the group and asks questions of the participants. Monty and the managing director watch from afar. 
Monty's eyes widen. A smile comes across her face. 
MaNAGING DIRECTOR (CONT'D)
That's Jonnie. She's another case manager. The patients love her. 
Jonnie notices Monty. She smiles and bats her eyes. Monty's face brightens. 
MonTY
I can see why. 
The managing director steps in front of Monty's view of the group. 
ManAGING DIRECTOR
So what do you think of the place? 
MonTY
I think I could be very happy here. 
EXT. park - dAY
A large green park that seems to go on for miles. A huge tree is in the middle of a large patch of green grass. 
Under the tree's canopy stand Monty, dressed in a tux and Jonnie, dressed in a white gown. They face each other and hold hands. 
A NOTARY stands behind them close to the tree's trunk. 
Notary 
And do you Jonnie take Monty to be your husband, from this day forth, till death do you part? 
Jonnie
I do. I do. 
She grabs the back of his head and kisses him. 
NoTARY
Well, since you already kissed. I guess I now pronounce you man and wife. Congratulations! 
The crowd of people seated in front of the tree all CHEER and stand up. Monty and Jonnie walk down an aisle between the people. They both glow with happiness. 
EXT. cul-de-sac - eVENING
A cul-de-sac is filled with people. There's barbecue trucks lined up with food and tables set up for people to sit at. 
A BAND plays on the sidewalk. Some people dance. 
Monty and Jonnie dance together. 
MonTY
You make me complete. 
She kisses him. He smiles widely. 
Jonnie holds the train of her dress as Monty twirls her. They GIGGLE as they spin around and enjoy the evening. 
INT. monty and jonnie's home - nIGHT
The flames from the fireplace glow and cast a light on Johnnie as she knits. 
Monty sits in a recliner and stares out the window, depressed. 
MonTY
It's not that you're not enough. You are. It's just--
JonNIE
I know. You need a new project. 
MonTY
I don't know what I need anymore. 
JoNNIE
I've been noticing the bottle lately. 
Monty lowers his head. 
JoNNIE (CONT'D)
And your lack of eating. 
Monty stare out the window more. 
MonTY
Maybe I should finish my degree. 
JONNIE
Now there's a good idea. Do it. Go back to school. 
Monty's face brightens up a bit. 
INT. psYCHIATRIST OFFICE - dAY
Dr. Roland sits in a leather chair and writes notes. 
MonTY
I got my BA, I should be excited. But I'm not. 
		
Dr. Roland
And how does that make you feel? 
MonTY
Depressed! 
Dr. Roland
Are you taking your medication? 
Monty fidgets with his fingernails. 
Dr. Roland (CONT'D)
Monty? 
MonTY
Sometimes. Depends. 
Dr. Roland
You know you need them. 
MonTY
Will there ever be a time I won't? 
Dr. Roland
I really don't know. I think that's up to you. 
Monty SIGHS. 
MonTY
I kinda of feel like, like I'm still not helping people. I'm not hurting' anymore but it's not real help I don't think. I don't know. 
Dr. Roland
Well how would you like to help them? 
MonTY
I want to get them out in the world more, you know. Get them working and socializing. But the rules…. they're pretty strict. I have to follow all the center’s policies. 
Dr. Roland
I'm sure. 
MonTY
It's like walking a tight rope every day. I just keep waiting to fall off. 
Dr. Roland
How so? 
MonTY
It's political. You have to walk this fine line between what you want to do and need to do and kissing butt for the executive directors. 
Dr. Roland
I see. 
He writes several notes. 
Dr. Roland (CONT'D)
And how's the drinking? 
Monty glares. 
INT. monty and JONNIE'S HOME - nIGHT
Monty lays on his recliner and drinks from a bottle of whiskey. Jonnie walks in and shakes her head. 
JoNNIE
I'm not buying you another one of those. You need to lay off that stuff. 
MoNTY
Are you analyzing me? Everyone's always analyzing me trying to figure out what's wrong. Every asks how I feel. What if I don't know how I feel? 
He takes another swig of whiskey. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
What if I don't know anything? 
JoNNIE
Why don't we go to the clubhouse and go dancing? 
Monty freezes for a moment. Jonnie sits beside him and places her hands on his leg. 
JoNNIE (CONT'D)
Huh? What do you think? 
Monty sets down the bottle and kisses her. 
MonTY
Johnnie, you're a genius. 
JoNNIE
Well I didn't think dancing was such a novel idea, but hey...
MonTY
A clubhouse!
Jonnie raises an eyebrow. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
We'll start a clubhouse. 
JoNNIE
Honey, what are you talking about? 
MonTY
For our patients. It's perfect. 
Monty stands up and walks around, imaging the clubhouse in his mind. He is full of energy and enthusiasm. Jonnie watches him, delighted but skeptical. 
MONTY (CONT'D)
A clubhouse where they can go to socialize. A clubhouse that organizes events. Heck, we can get them jobs. 
JoNNIE
Doing what? 
MONTY
I don't know. Filing papers. Getting coffee. Whatever needs to be done around the mental health center. 
He sways and dances his way to Jonnie. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
What do you think, my darling. 
She smiles. 
JonNIE
I think if you want it to be, you'll make it happen. 
He leans over and kisses her. 
MONTY
And now, what shall we call it? 
He thinks. 
INT. Mental Health Center - dAY
Monty leads a group of patients into a large open room. 
MonTY
Welcome to the psychosocial clubhouse!
The group looks around. It's just an ordinary group therapy room with tables and chairs. Jonnie follows. 
PatIENT #2
Where is it? 
Monty motions to the entire room. 
MonTY
It's all around. See? 
The group looks around again. 
JoNNIE
What he means is this is where things will happen. The clubhouse will sort of like a meeting group, but not for therapy. We'll plan events, parties, do projects and even get your started working a little. 
PatiENT #3
Working? 
Jonnie nods. 
JoNNIE
Helping out around here. 
A few patients smile. 
PaTIENT #4
I'd love to work again. 
PATIENT #5
Me too. It's been so long since I was able to keep a job. 
MonTY
Well it's official then. This is the psychosocial clubhouse. 
Everyone CLAPS. Monty smiles. Jonnie admires him and smiles proudly. 
INT. Mental Health Center - dAY
Several patients assist nurses with filing paperwork. 
A couple other patients mop the floors and clean restrooms. 
The managing director watches the patients work. Monty stands beside her. 
MaNAGING DIRECTOR
Very nice work. 
MonTY
Thank you. 
ManAGING DIRECTOR
I would have never thought of this. 
MonTY
Well...
Monty stops himself. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
They just want to feel useful. It's important to them that they contribute. 
The managing director looks at her watch. 
ManAGING DIRECTOR
I have to go. I have an 11 o'clock meeting. 
MonTY
Are you going to be at the community walk tomorrow? 
MaNAGING DIRECTOR
I'll certainly try, manager. 
Monty's jaw drops. 
MonTY
Did you just...am I a...
The managing director nods. 
ManAGING DIRECTOR
Yes. You deserve it. Congratulations on your promotion. 
Jonnie overhears and runs to him as the managing director walks away. 
JoNNIE
Manager? 
He nods. 
She hugs him tight. 
JoNNIE (CONT'D)
I'm so proud of you, sweetheart. So, so, so proud. 
She steps back. 
JoNNIE (CONT'D)
Looking good...manager. 
Monty beams with pride. 
EXT. high school field - dAY
Thousands of people cover the field and bleachers. Hundreds of people walk around the track. Several tents are set up in the center. People LAUGH, TALK and play. 
A large sign is hung on the gate. It reads "Community Walk for Mental Health." 
Jonnie stands behind a booth labeled "Registration." She takes paperwork and counts money. 
Caddy corner to her is Monty behind a large barbecue grill. 
A long line is formed beside the barbecue. Everyone in line holds a paper plate. 
Monty serves up hot dogs, hamburgers, ribs and chicken. 
MonTY
And what would you like? Chicken? Dogs? Ribs? 
Hungry boy
Hot dog please. 
Monty places a hot dog in a bun on the boy's plate. The boy looks at the large hot dog and his eyes bug out. 
HuNGRY BOY (CONT'D)
Cool!
He rushes off with his food. 
A HUSKY MAN steps up next. 
MonTY
And what for you, sir? 
Husky man
Ribs. 
MONTY
Ribs it is. 
He takes a half-rack off the grill and places them on the man's plate. 
HusKY MAN
Thanks. These are so good this is my third helping. You should be a cook man. 
Monty smirks. 
MonTY
Thanks. Hope you like this batch. 
The man digs into a rib right away. 
HusKY MAN
Oh yeah...oh yeah. Mmm mmm good. 
INT. monty aND JONNIE'S HOME - dAY
Monty paces outside the bathroom door. 
MonTY
Anything yet?
The bathroom door opens. 
Jonnie walks out, disappointed. She holds a pregnancy test in her hand. 
She shows it to him. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
Did we want one line or two? 
JoNNIE
Two...
She bursts into tears. 
MONTY
It's alright honey. We'll just try again. 
JoNNIE
We have been. We've been trying again for the last two years. 
She sinks down to the floor and continues to CRY. 
JoNNIE (CONT'D)
What is wrong with me? Why can't I have a baby? 
Monty rubs her back. 
MonTY
We'll get a baby. One way or another we will. I promise. 
She looks up at him, eyes still full of tears. He wraps his arms around her and holds her. 
INT. adoption office - dAY
A small but immaculate office. Jonnie and Monty sit in chairs in front of a desk. Behind the desk sits a well dressed ADOPTION AGENT. 
She looks through paperwork as she talks. 
Adoption agent
I see that you were rejected by the public adoption process. Why is that? 
JoNNIE
(serious)
We were told we're too old. 
AdOPTION AGENT
Well we won't turn you away here. Now I see here that you'd like a baby.
JoNNIE
A newborn if possible. 
AdOPTION AGENT
Well infants are harder to come by but there is a chance. 
She sets down the paperwork and looks at Jonnie and Monty very serious.
AdOPTION AGENT (CONT'D)
I'm going to find you a baby. Most importantly your baby will find you. A perfect baby to call your own. And that little baby will be so lucky to have a couple like you to love it. 
Jonnie's eyes well with tears. 
JoNNIE
Thank you. That would just make us so happy. 
She looks to Monty who is lost in thought. She touches his hand and he smiles at her. She looks back at the adoption agent and Monty's smile fades. 
montage - monty's depression 
Monty mopes around the mental health center. 
Monty drinks at home. 
Monty sits in the corner during a psychosocial clubhouse dance party. 
INT. managing director's office - dAY
She sits at her desk, dressed in her normal professional attire. 
MaNAGING DIRECTOR
I'm sorry, Monty but I have to--
MONTY
Am I being fired? 
The managing director takes a moment to respond. 
ManAGING DIRECTOR
Demoted. 
Monty nods. He is dressed in torn jeans and an untucked shirt. He's unshaven and his hair is a mess. 
MonTY
I thought so. 
He shakes his head. 
The managing director passes him a piece of paper. 
ManAGING DIRECTOR
I highly recommend him. He's great to talk to. I told him about you. 
Monty looks at the piece of paper. It reads "Dr. Roland 555-555-9270." 
				MONTY
I know him.  I have seen him before.
She looks at him genuinely worried. 
ManAGING DIRECTOR (CONT'D)
I hope you get some help, Monty. I'd love to have you back as a manager. Just not like this. 
He nods and stands up. The managing director offers her hand for a handshake. He doesn't even see it and leaves. 
INT. dr. Roland's office - dAY
Monty lays back on a sofa. 
MonTY
So what do you want to know? How I became this way? If my parents abused me? If I'm insecure? If I have violent outbursts? Hit me, doc. 
DR. Roland sits on an adjoining sofa. 
Dr. Roland
Not really. Unless you really want to talk about all that. 
Monty sits up, surprised. 
MonTY
Well, what do you want to know then? 
Dr. Roland
Word has it you're a pretty good cook. 
MONTY
Yeah, I'm not too bad. What's your point? 
Dr. Roland
I'm going to write you a prescription for some medication but what I really think you should do is start a little part time business cooking. Do something fun. 
Monty thinks about it for a moment. 
MonTY
That's not a bad idea, doc. 
EXT. PARK - DAY
A large barbecue is set up behind a fair-like food stand. The sign in front reads "River Talk Barbecue." 
A chalkboard sign lists all the menu items. 
A few people stand in line. 
Monty flips some ribs and burgers on the grill then walks up to the stand. 
MonTY
How can I help you today? 
EXT. paRK - dAY
The barbecue stand is set-up. 
The line is much longer now. 
CUSTOMERS chat while they wait in line. 
Customer #1
I had the tri-tip sandwich yesterday. It was to die for.
CusTOMER #2
Well you have to try the braised short ribs. They seriously melted in my mouth. 
CusTOMER #3
I've been here every day this week and the baked beans are the best hands down. 
Monty works feverishly behind the stand getting orders out. 
A DELIVERY MAN approaches. Monty hands him a stack of boxes. 
MonTY
Five deliveries now. Come back for another dozen. 
Delivery man
You got it, boss. 
Monty wipes a bead of sweat from his forehead. He looks at the long line of people and smiles. 
INT. monty aND JONNIE'S HOME - nIGHT
Monty and Johnnie sit and eat dinner at a small table. 
JoNNIE
So business is picking up even more. That's incredible. 
MonTY
Yeah. 
Monty pushes his food around his plate. 
JoNNIE
What is it, honey? 
MonTY
I was thinking about going back to school. 
JoNNIE
Again? 
Monty nods. 
JONNIE (CONT'D)
What for? 
MonTY
My Masters Degree. 
JoNNIE
I realize that. But what for? Why do you want it? I mean, what will you do with it? 
MonTY
I don't know. 
Monty sets his fork down and looks at Johnnie. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
What do you think? 
Jonnie goes to take a bite of food then stops.
JoNNIE
I...I don't know what I think. I think you have a good thing going now and going to school will just...
MonTY
Just what? 
JoNNIE
Just make you crazy. 
MonTY
Is that what you really think? You think I'm crazy. 
JoNNIE
That's not what I meant. I--
MonTY
But that's what you said. 
JoNNIE
You've been so good lately. Hardly any symptoms. And this--
MonTY
Would mess everything up, huh? 
He pounds his fists on the table. 
JONNIE
That's not fair. I just don't want you to become more stressed than you already are. We're going to have a child soon, Monty. That alone will be a big change. 
MonTY
We're not having a baby, you can't bear one. 
Jonnie's face drops. 
Monty freezes. His face drops as well. Jonnie covers her mouth. Tears start to well in her eyes. 
JoNNIE
That...
MonTY
I'm sorry. I didn't mean to...I mean--
JoNNIE
That was unforgiveable. 
She gets up and walks away from the table. 
Monty drops his head on the table. 
MatCH CUT TO:
INT. classROOM - nIGHT
Monty's head rests on a desk. A PROFESSOR at the front of the room talks. 
Professor  
Who can tell me about the changes in mental status in this case?
He looks down at a paper on his table. 
PrOFESSOR (CONT'D)
Monty Murphy what do you think about that?
Monty sits up quickly, his head jerks as he blinks and wakes up. 
MonTY
I aaaa...
PrOFESSOR 
Come to class prepared next time. 
Monty SIGHS. 
INT. auditorium - nIGHT
Monty stands up stage. The place is filled with people who dance and talk. A band plays MUSIC on stage behind Monty. They finish their song. 
MoNTY
Thank you very much, for Disco.  
The crowd CLAPS. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
Next up is a special treat. Me. 
A couple people CLAP. Jonnie HOOTS. 
MONTY (CONT'D)
But first I'd like to thank you again for joining us here at the first annual psychosocial clubhouse talent show. 
Monty walks to the side of the stage. A man hands him a guitar. Another person brings out a chair. 
Monty sits on the chair and begins to play the GUITAR. 
The managing director stands with Jonnie. 
MaNAGING DIRECTOR
He really has a talent for helping people during therapy sessions and getting them back into society. 
JoNNIE
That's because he's been there. He still works at it every day. 
MaNAGING DIRECTOR
I would love to have him back full time. 
Jonnie shrugs. 
JoNNIE
That's up to him. Whenever he figures it out. 
She watches him on stage, a sad half-smile on her face. 
INT. monty aND JONNIE'S HOME - eVENING
Monty arranges silverware on the table set for four. 
Jonnie comes in with four tea glasses and sets them on the table. 
MonTY
I want everything to be perfect. 
Jonnie kisses his cheek. 
JoNNIE
It is. 
He examines the table further, still not satisfied. 
MonTY
This is just so important to me. 
JoNNIE
I know. And I'm proud of you. 
They share a sweet glance then Monty returns to examining the table. 
INT. monty aND JONNIE'S HOME - nIGHT
Mrs. and Mrs. Murphy sits at the dining room table with Monty and Jonnie. 
Everyone is in a good mood as they eat their meal. 
MrS. MURPHY
Thank you so much for inviting us out here. It's great to finally get to spend time with you, Jonnie. 
JoNNIE
Well this was all Monty's idea. 
Mrs. Murphy looks at Monty, surprised. 
MrS. MURPHY
What a lovely idea, son. 
She touches Mr. Murphy's hand on the table and they smile at each other. 
Mr. MURPHY
Great roast. See you learned a thing or two from all my years of cooking. 
MONTY
They say I'm the barbecue king. 
Mrs. MURPHY
Do they? 
JoNNIE
Monty has a great business going. People line up around the block at lunchtime for his sandwiches and ribs. 
MrS. MURPHY
That's great, darling. Why haven't you told us any of this? 
Monty shrugs. 
MonTY
Been busy. 
EXT. paRK - dAY
The barbecue is in full swing. The line wraps around the parking lot. 
Monty cooks away but it's obvious he's tired.
His delivery boy stands beside him. 
DeLIVERY MAN
What's next? 
MONTY
Twenty five more orders. 
DeLIVERY MAN
Where are the boxes? 
MoNTY
They're not ready yet. Here you cook. 
He hands the delivery boy his spatula. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
I need a break. 
INT. monty and JONNIE'S HOME - moRNING
Monty sits at the table and drinks coffee as he flips through a book. 
Jonnie rubs his back. 
JoNNIE
You'll do great. I know it. 
Monty nods. 
MoNTY
I think I'm gonna shut down River Talk Barbecue. It's just getting to be too much. 
Jonnie SIGHS. 
JONNIE
If that's what you think is best. 
MONTY
I just don't have the time. 
JoNNIE
You're preaching to the choir. 
MonTY
When I finish my Masters I'm going to go back to the center full time. It's where I need to be. 
JoNNIE
And it needs you. 
INT. Mental Health Center - dAY
Monty hangs up his framed Masters degree on a wall. 
Jonnie rushes into the hallway where he hangs the frame. 
JoHNNIE
Our baby!
Monty raises an eyebrow. 
JoNNIE (CONT'D)
It's time! 
She is all smiles. She throws her arms around Monty. He hugs her narrow frame. 
JoNNIE (CONT'D)
What are you waiting on? Let's go!
She rushes out the front doors. 
INT. hospital maternity ward - dAY
A YOUNG WOMAN hands a baby boy to Jonnie. She cradles him in her arms and CRIES tears of joy. 
JoNNIE
He's so beautiful. So, so beautiful. 
Monty shakes. A tear rolls down his cheek. He touches the baby boy's head. 
MonTY
I'm your daddy. 
The young woman CRIES. 
Young woman
Can you promise me one thing? 
Jonnie nods. 
JoNNIE
Anything. 
YOUNG WOMAN
Make sure he goes to college. 
Monty nods. 
MonTY
Yes, we will. 
YouNG WOMAN
And can you teach him to ride a Sea-Doo? I'd really like it if he got to do that. It's something I really like to do. 
Jonnie nods. Tears continue to stream down her face. 
JoNNIE
Absolutely. Thank you so much for this precious gift. 
She looks down at the beautiful sleeping little baby boy. 
JoNNIE (CONT'D)
He already means the world to us. 
YouNG WOMAN
I know you'll take good care of him. 
Monty and Jonnie both nod. 
Montage - monty raising his son
Monty videotapes his BABY BOY, who sits in a highchair. 
Baby boy
Dada. 
MonTY
Say it again, son. 
BABY BOY
Dada. 
Monty turns to Jonnie, excited. 
MonTY
Did you hear that? Did you hear him? 
Jonnie nods. Monty is full of joy. 
Monty watches his son walk for the first time. He is in awe and completely proud. 
Monty's son waves as he goes into his kindergarten classroom for the first day of school. Jonnie and Monty blow kisses. Their son runs off with another little boy into the room, happy and excited. 
EXT. church - dAY
Monty stands outside a small church and looks up at the cross at the top of the building. 
He takes a deep breath then enters. 
INT. chURCH - dAY
Monty sits with his Pastor, now in his 90s. 
PasTOR
Been a while. 
MonTY
A few years, I suppose. 
PasTOR
How's life treating you? 
Monty tilts his head side to side. 
MonTY
Ups and downs. Good right now. 
PasTOR
That's because you're letting God back into your life. 
MonTY
I didn't know he ever left. 
PAsTOR
He didn't. You just stopped speaking to him. 
Monty and the Pastor CHUCKLE. 
PasTOR (CONT'D)
Good to see you. 
MonTY
You too. 
There's an awkward silence. 
PasTOR
You know I went through what you did too. 
Monty raises an eyebrow. 
PasTOR (CONT'D)
I was so depressed I didn't know what to do. 
MonTY
So what did you do? 
PasTOR
I prayed. 
The Pastor grabs his hand and lowers his head. 
PasTOR (CONT'D)
Let's pray. 
The Pastor closes his eyes. Monty lowers his head. 
PasTOR (CONT'D)
Lord, bless our son Monty for he has lost his way and seeks to find the right path again. Help him see the light in everyday and help him love you no matter what. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. 
They open their eyes. 
PasTOR (CONT'D)
Thirty years....
He SIGHS.
PasTOR (CONT'D)
Doesn't time just fly by? 
Monty smiles. 
INT. Mental Health Center - nIGHT
Monty is handed a certificate and shakes the managing director's hand. 
ManAGING DIRECTOR
You're done great service for this center. Your legacy will always remain. Enjoy retirement. 
Monty nods, proud. 
EXT. lake - dAY
Monty and his son ride a Sea-Doo. They slow down near the shore. 
MonTY
Want to try it by yourself?
His son shakes his head, excited. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
Alright. 
Monty gets off the Sea-Doo then spins it around in the water so it faces back out at the lake. 
MonTY (CONT'D)
Hold on tight. 
The Sea-Doo takes off. Monty LAUGHS as he watches his son speed off and exert his independence. 
EXT. laKE - eVENING
Jonnie and Monty lay out in their adarondikes outside their waterfront home. 
They each hold a glass of champagne. 
Jonnie turns to him and CLINKS glasses. 
JoNNIE
To 25 years. 
Monty shakes his head. Jonnie looks at him, surprised. 
MonTY
To 25 more. 
They smile and kiss. 
FaDE OUT.