The Face Of Huysman

                

               A SMALL TOWN IN MIDDLE ENGLAND. PRESENT DAY 

               FADE UP:

           1   INT. SALON.  DAY 

               Receptionist TRICIA (Mid twenties), is laughing with 
               salesman MARK (Late twenties) in the otherwise empty, small 
               reception room. 

               They fall silent as HUYSMAN, walking cane in hand, dressed 
               with cape and wide brimmed hat, makes an entrance from the 
               street.

                                     TRICIA
                         Mark, I want you to meet our new 
                         owner, Huysman.

                                     MARK
                         Pleased to meet you, Mr.Huysman.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Just Huysman.

                                     MARK
                         Ah...Right. Hi. I'm Mark, from 
                         Green Mountain Pharmacy Products? 
                         I was just admiring the new decor.

               Huysman looks past Mark to Tricia and holds up his cane.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I would very much like a word with 
                         my staff. Alone.

               Mark collects up his sample case and moves to the door. 

               He turns to Tricia but Huysman dares Mark to say another 
               word.  

               Mark smiles helplessly at Tricia and exits into the street.

                                     TRICIA
                         I was ordering the oils. Mr. Strozzi 
                         always uses Green Mountain-

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Used. Mr. Strozzi has retired. His 
                         Fountain of Youth is no more.
                         I am Huysman and this-

               He casts his eye around reception.

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                                                                       2.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Is the Temple of Huysman.

               Huysman admires the small room.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         You too, approve the new decor?

                                     TRICIA
                         It's certainly different.  Mark 
                         says the place has a new atmosphere.

               Huysman's eye falls upon a small statue in pride of place.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         And what is that?

               They both look towards the dark bronze casting of a woman 
               entwined by a large serpent.

                                     TRICIA
                         He left it for you.

               Huysman gets closer.

                                     TRICIA (CONT'D)
                         Mr.Strozzi used to kiss it every 
                         morning and say thank you to it, 
                         every night.

               Tricia joins Huysman at the statue.

                                     TRICIA (CONT'D)
                         See the shine on the snake's head 
                         where he's worn it away? It's 
                         Beauty, captivated.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         It is Eve in the clutches of Evil.

               Tricia has another look, trying to see it in a different 
               light.

                                     TRICIA
                         Is it? Anyway, he said you should 
                         carry on the tradition.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Mr. Strozzi is a superstitious old 
                         fool.

           2   INT. SALON.  DAY

               Beautician NADINE (Early twenties) hurries into the small 
               consulting room where THREE WOMEN, salon robes thrown over 
               their underwear, wait in easy chairs.

                                     NADINE
                         Huysman is in the building.

               The women are immediately apprehensive. 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                       3.

               A beat before the door opens and Huysman strides in, nods 
               to Nadine and with a flourish, hooks one leg over a high 
               stool. He is ready.  

               Nadine turns to the women.

                                     NADINE (CONT'D)
                         Ladies- May I introduce Huysman?

               The three women mumble a response but none can catch the 
               masters eye. 

               Nadine addresses Huysman but looks towards the women.

                                     NADINE (CONT'D)
                         Today we welcome three new
                         in-salon clients.  Mrs. Lolicia 
                         Gillesp.

               The trophy wife, MRS. GILLESP (late twenties) flashes a 
               dazzler at Huysman but he is not looking her way.

                                     NADINE (CONT'D)
                         And her friends, Mrs. Warnet-

               Acolyte MRS. WARNET (Thirty) tries to catch Huysman's eye 
               but he is looking at Nadine.

                                     NADINE (CONT'D)
                         Miss Debra Cooker.

               Intimate DEBRA COOKER (Twenties) smiles at Huysman who is 
               flicking a speck of black dust from his jacket and doesn't 
               notice.  

               After a beat, he looks up.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You have come to the Temple of 
                         Huysman to seek beauty, but you 
                         find yourself in my humble workshop.

               Huysman pauses and slowly raises his hand to point to the 
               side of his forehead.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Here is the real Temple of Huysman.
                         Herein are locked the secrets of 
                         beauty.  I am an artist. My material 
                         is the human body. My speciality, 
                         living female skin.

               Huysman stares at each women in turn as he speaks.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         After you have cleansed yourself 
                         of the street, I will consider 
                         each of you in private. Together 
                         we will make a beginning.
                         When you leave tonight, you will
                         each be a work in progress-
                         A work of art.

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                                                                       4.

               Huysman sweeps out without a glance, leaving the three 
               women to experience a delightful frisson of apprehension.

                                     NADINE
                         Let's get you under the shower and 
                         wash off all that pollution for 
                         Huysman.

           3   INT. DAY ROOM. DAY

               Huysman enters another room of his salon. Beautician SHELLEY 
               (Early thirties) stops working on the face of client HELEN 
               EASTO (Twenty-five) and steps back.

                                     SHELLEY
                         This is Miss Easto. A very regular 
                         client and one of Mr. Strozzi's 
                         favourite patrons.

               Huysman folds his arms and poses.

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         We may call her Helen.

               Helen gives Huysman half a smile.

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         Helen, this is Huysman.

               Helen Easto manages a nod. Huysman looks deeply into Helen's 
               face and eyes.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Leave us, Shelley.

               As the door closes, Huysman turns his back on Helen.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Do you like yourself, Helen?

                                     HELEN
                         Of course I do.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Then why do you persist in harming 
                         yourself, day after day, night 
                         after night?

                                     HELEN
                         Do what?

               Huysman rounds on Helen and is in her face.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Do you know what your face tells 
                         me? You have a complete disregard 
                         of inner self. 

                                     HELEN
                         Excuse me?

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                                                                       5.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I see dissipation. A condition 
                         caused by a bad diet, smoking and 
                         drinking until you are totally 
                         inebriated-

                                     HELEN
                         I beg your pardon? 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         -And too often taken and ridden 
                         into the small hours at the expense 
                         of a good night's rest.

               Helen rehearses Huysman;s words for a beat.

                                     HELEN
                         I can't believe this. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I am a creative artist, Helen not 
                         a painter and decorator.

               Helen springs from the chair and drags off her paper bib, 
               throwing it to the floor.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         This isn't where one comes to touch 
                         up the war paint before going back 
                         out on the pull.

                                     HELEN
                         Who the fuck do you think you are?

               Helen pushes at Huysman and he steps back.

                                     HELEN (CONT'D)
                         This is only a beauty parlour, you 
                         know?

               Huysman remains impassive. 

                                     HELEN (CONT'D)
                         You're not a doctor- Or my priest.

               Helen drags open the cubicle door and screams at Shelley.

                                     HELEN (CONT'D)
                         Coat.

               Helen grabs her coat from Shelley and is gone.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         She doesn't fit the Huysman profile.

               Huysman dismisses Helen from his mind.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         I think I'm ready to take a look 
                         at Strozzi's stockroom.

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                                                                       6.

           4   INT. STOCKROOM. DAY

               Shelley holds a cardboard box for Huysman as he moves along 
               the two shelves. 

               He reads labels with distaste and pulls agonised faces as 
               he tosses bottles, jars into the box.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Eye of newt---toe of frog. Wool of 
                         bat and---

               He has practically cleared the shelves and Shelley struggles 
               to balance a full box. 

               He throws a last pot in.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Tongue of dog.

           5   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               Huysman quietly examines Debra Cooker as she gabbles to 
               Nadine.

                                     DEBRA
                         As you know, Lolicia- Mrs. Gillesp, 
                         likes to be first with everything 
                         in this town- So when your 
                         advertisement appeared- 'Under new 
                         management'-

               Huysman examines the robed Debra Cooker's skin as Nadine 
               takes notes.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Exfoliate with oatmeal and almond.
                         Try to keep a relaxed face, Debra. 
                         Skin likes to keep creases made 
                         too often---

               Debra glances at Huysman and agrees to try and is back 
               with Nadine.

                                     DEBRA
                         'The Temple covers you in a paste 
                         of bananas, olive oil, lemon juice 
                         and sea salt'- So I said that sounds 
                         great- I've always wanted to look 
                         good enough to eat.

               Debra laughs at her own wit.

                                     NADINE
                         That was that silly reporter talking 
                         about our using only the extracts 
                         of natural ingredients.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Tone, moisturise, nourish.

               Nadine finishes writing.

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                                                                       7.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Huysman leaves hair to others but 
                         if I may give you some
                         nutritional advice, Debra-
                         eat more fish.

           6   INT. RECEPTION. NIGHT

               Tricia is wearing her street coat and as she waits, Huysman 
               enters from the inner door. 

               Tricia dangles the salon keys for him to take and points 
               out the light switches. 

               Huysman turns off the lights.  Tricia indicates the statue.

                                     TRICIA
                         Don't forget to say thank you.

               Huysman is about to ignore her but suddenly turns and raps 
               hard on the snake's shiny head with his cane, making the 
               metal ring.  

               Huysman laughs heartily.  

               They exit, Huysman still amused at his action but Tricia a 
               little concerned.

               n the silence of the empty reception, the statue pulsates 
               with a green glow. 

           7   INT. STOCKROOM. DAY

               Huysman's preparations assistant ANNABEL (Late twenties) 
               is making an infusion.  She carries on working as Huysman 
               enters.

                                     ANNABEL
                         We could do with a double boiler.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         And what's that?

                                     ANNABEL
                         A saucepan inside another saucepan.

               Huysman moves closer to watch Annabel.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         If it helps. Any other problems?

                                     ANNABEL
                         I could do with more warning of 
                         the treatments.  I worry about 
                         running out of fresh ingredients.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Um, difficult. I could always 
                         specify an alternative.

                                     ANNABEL
                         That would be helpful.

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                                                                       8.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I am very pleased with the work 
                         you do, Annabel.

                                     ANNABEL
                         Thank you. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Very pleased indeed. Can I ask you 
                         something?

               Annabel stops work to listen.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         I will eventually need a model. 
                         Someone to represent the benefits 
                         of my natural beauty programme.

               Huysman stares at Annabel. 

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Everyone suggested that I asked 
                         you.

                                     ANNABEL
                         Did they?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Well, you know what goes into the 
                         preparations and how they fit into 
                         my inner beauty regime.

                                     ANNABEL
                         What's the catch?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         There is no catch.  You have a 
                         natural grace. We'd work together 
                         on developing a range of natural 
                         treatments- Which you would use 
                         and become the face of Huysman.

                                     ANNABEL
                         Can I think about it?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I wish you would.

               Huysman lingers as Annabel continues working. He fishes 
               out a slip of paper from his pocket.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Oh, I'd like you to make up some 
                         charcoal toothpaste.

                                     ANNABEL
                         Charcoal?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I've written it down.

               Annabel reads aloud.

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                                                                       9.

                                     ANNABEL
                         'Crush two slices of black-toasted 
                         wholemeal bread, not crusts, and 
                         mix with two teaspoons of dried 
                         sage and two drops of peppermint 
                         oil'.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         It has a very beneficial effect on 
                         teeth.

                                     ANNABEL
                         I might need a little longer to 
                         think about it. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         It's for Mrs. Warnet.

           8   EXT. STREET. DAY

               Entrepreneur SAM BRICKTON, staring like a tourist, wanders 
               along the town's main street.  

               He stops a MALE passer-by.  

               WE watch the pantomime of question and puzzled unhelpful 
               response.  

               Brickton tries again but chooses a FEMALE to question. The 
               pantomime is repeated but this time he is greeted with a 
               recognition and Brickton receives directions for which he 
               is grateful.

           9   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Tricia can see Brickton through the window and is intrigued.  

               Brickton enters and leans back on the closed door. He looks 
               around the small reception.

                                     TRICIA
                         Good morning.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Huysman around?

               Tricia is not willing to say.

                                     BRICKTON (CONT'D)
                         Place busy?

                                     TRICIA
                         Very.

               Brickton is pleased about that. 

               Tricia is becoming uncomfortable.

                                     TRICIA (CONT'D)
                         What is it in connection with?

               Brickton stares at the statue for a beat.

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                                                                      10.

                                     BRICKTON
                         I was in the area and had some 
                         downtime.

                                     TRICIA
                         Are you a rep?

                                     BRICKTON
                         So he's keeping himself occupied?

                                     TRICIA
                         Will you please tell me what you 
                         want?

                                     BRICKTON
                         I own this place.

               He holds up a hand- Tricia should not interrupt him.  

               He turns the appointments book around to read and is pleased 
               but Tricia quickly pulls the book to face her again.

                                     BRICKTON (CONT'D)
                         I've been asking around. There are 
                         not too many people out there who 
                         have heard of us.

                                     TRICIA
                         Huysman is building his own 
                         clientele. It takes time.

                                     BRICKTON
                         We don't want to be bottom of the 
                         pyramid.

                                     TRICIA
                         I really must ask for your name.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Sam Brickton. After all it's been 
                         eight weeks now-

                                     TRICIA
                         Would you like to see Huysman?

                                     BRICKTON
                         No-o. No doubt you'll mention my 
                         observations to him, er?

                                     TRICIA
                         Tricia. 

               Brickton has a last look round.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Keep up the good work, Tricia.

               Brickton smiles warmly and exits.

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                                                                      11.

          10   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Tricia is working at the desk.  Mrs. Warnet is seated and 
               waits for her appointment. 

               Nadine enters from the inner door.

                                     NADINE
                         Hello, Mrs. Warnet.

                                     MRS. WARNET
                         Nadine.

                                     NADINE
                         We're all ready for you.

               Nadine waits to take her waiting client, Mrs. Warnet, 
               already looking lovely, into the salon.

               Before she follows Nadine, Mrs. Warnet gives the magazine 
               she has been reading to Tricia and her stabbing finger 
               points out an article to Tricia.

                                                            DISSOLVE TO:

          11   INT. SALON.  DAY

               MONTAGE: The work of the salon.  

               We follow Mrs. Warnet and Debra Cooker at the hands of 
               beautician Shelley and her assistant Nadine through some 
               of the treatments.

                                                            DISSOLVE TO:

               The small salon is a warm sanctuary for pampered females. 
               Bathing, body massage, body wrapping, depilatory regimes, 
               facials and necks, manicures, pedicures as the work of the 
               salon goes apace.

                                                            DISSOLVE TO:

               At Reception, Tricia checks a list against a box of 
               delivered goods including fresh apricots, avocado together 
               with fresh cream, eggs, cucumber, milk, lemon. Herbs- 
               parsley, rosemary, sage.

                                                            DISSOLVE TO:

               In the salon, Huysman appears occasionally, examining 
               clients eyes and skin as they are being prepared. Nadine 
               stands by making notes.  

               Interleaved are shots of Annabel in her room, mixing up 
               the fresh preparations and infusions from the notes Nadine 
               personally delivers to the stockroom.

                                                            DISSOLVE TO:

               We briefly follow Nadine delivering jars of fresh 
               preparations to the cubicles and watch the beginning of a 
               make-over procedure performed by Shelley on Mrs. Evelyn.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      12.

               Shelley following Mrs. Evelyn back out into reception from 
               the inner door. Mrs. Evelyn looks radiant and is pleased 
               to make another booking with Tricia.

                                                            DISSOLVE TO:

               Shelley appears in the stockroom-room where Annabel seems 
               to be preparing another infusion but she is making tea. 
               They share a welcome cuppa.

               END OF MONTAGE.

          12   INT. RECEPTION. NIGHT

               Tricia is in her street coat waiting at the reception desk. 

               Huysman enters from the salon, his cloak over his shoulders 
               and cane in hand. 

               He reaches over, takes the keys from behind the desk.

                                     TRICIA
                         Someone called in today. Said he 
                         was the owner. Does he mean 
                         landlord?

               Huysman is disturbed. 

               Tricia has a think.

                                     TRICIA (CONT'D)
                         Brickman.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Brickton. Why didn't you call me?

                                     TRICIA
                         He said not to bother. He was just 
                         in the area.

               Huysman takes a beat to think dark thoughts.

                                     TRICIA (CONT'D)
                         He was asking people in the street 
                         if they'd heard of the Temple of 
                         Huysman.

               Huysman is impassive.

                                     TRICIA (CONT'D)
                         I thought you owned it.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I am the talent. He is the money.

               Huysman takes a quiet beat to think.  Tricia remembers the 
               magazine article and flicks through to find it.

                                     TRICIA
                         Have you seen the Festival of 
                         Beauty's new competition?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      13.

               She reads from the article.

                                     TRICIA (CONT'D)
                         'The festival is also running a 
                         new Image of Allure competition to 
                         showcase the excellent work being 
                         done every day by smaller salons 
                         and invites photographic entries.  
                         The winners photograph will be on 
                         display at the Festival.'

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Just in the area.  Who's he kidding? 

                                     TRICIA
                         We've got our Annabel.

               Huysman stares into the street, lost in thought.  Huysman 
               takes the magazine and skims the article. 

                                     TRICIA (CONT'D)
                         You could send her photo in.

               Huysman takes a beat for thought and then smiles at Tricia. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Tricia- You might have something. 
                         Brickton wants to play games.

               He brightens.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Has the town heard of Huysman? 
                         How about everyone in the Country?

               Huysman bangs his cane down on the snakes shiny bronze 
               head, making it ring out.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         What do you say, Baldy?

               Chuckling, Huysman switches off the salon lights as Tricia 
               opens the street door and Huysman takes a last look round.

                                     TRICIA
                         You keep hitting that poor thing.
                         You're supposed to kiss it and say 
                         thank you.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         For what? I am Huysman.

               They exit and as Huysman locks the door from outside. In 
               the darkness of the closed shop, the eerie green glow again 
               pulses from the statue.

          13   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               Shelley is coating Mrs. Gillesp with an expensive lotion 
               around the face and neck.  

               Huysman enters and watches the treatment.  

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      14.

               Tricia wipes her hands and shows Huysman a photograph of a 
               female celebrity, cut from a newspaper.

                                     TRICIA
                         Mrs. Gillesp and her husband have 
                         been invited to the mayor's garden 
                         party.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Congratulations. 

               Mrs. Gillesp speaks from under her coating of foundation.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         That is the look I want.

               Huysman screws up the cutting and drops it into the waste 
               bin.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Impossible. You are a client of 
                         Huysman.  Radiance from within. We 
                         are discovering your natural beauty.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         I don't think you heard me.

               Huysman looks closely at Mrs. Gillesp's face and takes her 
               hands, turning them over and back to inspect the palms and 
               the nails.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You'll have to attend to these 
                         nails between visits.  Shelley 
                         will give you a silica treatment 
                         for use at home.

               Huysman exits the cubicle and Shelley follows him out.

          14   INT.  SALON.  DAY

               In the corridor outside the cubicle, Shelley hurries to 
               confront Huysman, stopping him in his tracks. 

               Shelley angrily whispers to Huysman.

                                     SHELLEY
                         She really wants that look.
                         Mr. Strozzi would have-

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Then Mr. Strozzi was a forger.

                                     SHELLEY
                         It is very important to her. Mr. 
                         Strozzi- 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         -Was a counterfeiter with witches 
                         potions in his attic and probably 
                         a pact with the devil. Make sure 
                         she attends those nails.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      15.

               Huysman moves Shelley out of his way and walks off.

          15   INT. SHOWER ROOM. DAY

               Annabel is under the shower.  

               Huysman waits patiently until she steps out. 

               He hands over her robe.

          16   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               Annabel is being examined by Huysman.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Thread vein. That could be a 
                         deficiency of vitamin B.

                                     ANNABEL
                         I'm following your diet plan.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Good.  Perhaps you're washing water 
                         is too hot-

               He looks at her eyes.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         The under-eye tissue is coming on. 
                         Remind me what we are using.

                                     ANNABEL
                         Rosemary and almonds in egg white.

               Huysman nods and examines her body skin.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Banana emollient, I think.
                         We don't want anything too greasy 
                         at this stage.

               Huysman checks and approves her finger nails as he speaks.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Ground almonds...

                                     ANNABEL
                         Olive oil, sea salt...rose water 
                         and lemon juice. I've made up enough 
                         of them.

               He acknowledges her expertise with a brief smile.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I think we can soon book a photo 
                         session.

          17   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Tricia is at the reception desk. 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      16.

               Huysman enters from the inner door, dressed for the street. 
               He checks the diary.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         How are the bookings?

                                     TRICIA
                         Word is building.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Good. I'm taking the afternoon 
                         off. I'm having some new furniture 
                         delivered.

                                     TRICIA
                         How's the flat coming along?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         After today, I'll have something 
                         to sit on.

                                     TRICIA
                         I went back home to my parents 
                         when I broke up. I should be looking 
                         for something again really.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Independence builds character.

                                     TRICIA
                         Can I ask you something?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         If you must. 

                                     TRICIA
                         Mr. Brickton said you have a 
                         chemistry degree.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Did he?

                                     TRICIA
                         Is that true?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I have nothing to declare but my 
                         genius. If I hear the slightest 
                         variation of that statement- You're 
                         fired.

                                     TRICIA
                         I think he admires you.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         It's mutual. You're locking up 
                         tonight- And the first here in the 
                         morning. 

          18   INT. STOCKROOM. DAY

               Nadine enters the stockroom followed by Mark.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      17.

                                     MARK
                         This has changed.

               He inspects the set-up and checks a few bottles.

                                     NADINE
                         Don't break anything.

                                     MARK
                         I just want to see what he's using 
                         now.

                                     NADINE
                         I told you. All natural ingredients.
                         Fresh herbs and fruit.  Annabel 
                         makes it up to Huysman's order.

               She hands Mark a sheet of paper.

                                     MARK
                         Lovage. What's that?

                                     NADINE
                         Nothing you sell.  You boil the 
                         root and mix it with olive oil, 
                         lemon and honey. 

                                     MARK
                         What's it used for?

                                     NADINE
                         Never you mind.

                                     MARK
                         What are so nervous about? You 
                         said Huysman's taken the afternoon 
                         off.

                                     NADINE
                         No-one is allowed in here. Annabel 
                         will be back any second.

                                     MARK
                         Who do you get your essential oils 
                         from? Your bases? You can't make 
                         them here.

               He picks up a jar.

                                     MARK (CONT'D)
                         Borax. I can supply this.
                         And I can get roots and barks.

                                     NADINE
                         Take it up with Annabel but don't 
                         tell her you've been up here.

               Mark moves closer to Nadine.

                                     MARK
                         What's it worth?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      18.

                                     NADINE
                         Out.

          19   INT.  SALON. NIGHT

               Tricia is alone in reception in her street clothes. 

               She finds the door keys and switches out the lights.

               In the darkness, the statue glows green. 

               Tricia is drawn towards it. 

               She bows before it. 

               Tricia finds she must kiss the serpent's head.

               She stands back for a beat before exiting the salon and 
               locking the door from the street. 

          20   INT. SHOWER. DAY

               Debra Cooker is delightedly showering.  

               She gently turns under the soft spray, enjoying the sensuous 
               warmth.

          21   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Huysman enters from the street. He is cheerful.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Good morning, good morning.

                                     TRICIA
                         Morning, Huysman. You're cheerful.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Not stopping. Everything all right?

                                     TRICIA
                         No problems I can't handle.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Good. I'll be over at Rikki's, the 
                         photographer.   

               Huysman spots the statue.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         You're on your way out, Baldy.

               Huysman bangs its head with his cane.

          22   INT. SHOWER. DAY

               As Huysman strikes the snakes head in reception, Debra, in 
               the shower, is invisibly struck with a searing pain to her 
               head and she falls, insensible to the bottom of the shower.

               Nadine, arriving with fresh towels, finds the fallen Debra 
               turns off the water and pulls her to a sitting position.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      19.

                                     NADINE
                         What happened?

               Debra can't remember.

                                     NADINE (CONT'D)
                         Do you hurt anywhere?

               Debra gets to her feet. 

                                     DEBRA
                         No, I don't think so. I must have 
                         slipped.

                                     NADINE
                         Let's get you a nice cup of tea. 

          23   INT. STUDIO. DAY

               Annabel is being made up by Huysman. He completes the 
               preparation and watches Annabel dress.  

               As she pulls on seductively silky evening wear, Huysman 
               attends last minute make-up needs and adjusts Annabel's 
               hair.

               In a prepared side room, RIKKI the photographer, waits 
               patiently among his lights and camera. 

               Huysman enters, leading Annabel to the set- A cyclorama of 
               brightly lit paper.

               Rikki seats Annabel and constructs her pose as Huysman 
               watches from a distance. 

               Behind his camera, Rikki begins taking a series of 
               photographs, punctuated by brilliant flashes of light.

          24   EXT. STREET. DAY

               Through the salon window WE see XAVIER, across the street. 
               He is casually watching passers-by.

               His attention is alerted by a YOUNG MAN in the middle 
               distance, who is looking for an address as he walks in the 
               direction of Huysman's salon.

               Xavier's eyes search around and finally alight on a window 
               box of brightly coloured flowers perched on high on a ledge 
               above the street.  

               As the young man moves directly under the window box, Xavier 
               eyes produce a huge burst of kinetic energy at the box 
               which moves forward until it overbalances.

               Falling at an ever-increasing rate, the window box crushes 
               the skull of the young man, who drops dead onto the pavement 
               among a halo of flowers, broken fragments of terra-cotta 
               and rooted earth.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      20.

               before a crowd can gather, Xavier moves swiftly to his 
               side and extracts the dead man's wallet, slipping into his 
               own inner pocket.  

               As people rush forward to help, Xavier holds his ear against 
               the young mans heart and slowly stands up, shaking his 
               head in sorrow.

          25   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               A chirpy Xavier, wearing a flower from the smashed window 
               box in his lapel,  enters the reception and smiles warmly 
               at Tricia.

                                     XAVIER
                         Hi, I'm Xavier-

                                     TRICIA
                         Right on time. 

                                     XAVIER
                         Here to learn at the feet of the 
                         master.

                                     TRICIA
                         Huysman's not back yet. 

                                     XAVIER
                         Mr. Brickton should have phoned 
                         you-

                                     TRICIA
                         He did. We know all about you.

               Xavier studies Tricia for a beat. 

                                     XAVIER
                         The face of Huysman.  What a 
                         brilliant first impression.

                                     TRICIA
                         Except I'm not the face of Huysman- 

                                     XAVIER
                         You're not? Somebody's making a 
                         big mistake. 

                                     TRICIA
                         You'll go far. 

          26   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               Shelley is alone with Xavier in the cubicle.

                                     SHELLEY
                         And where is the International 
                         Beauty Seminary?

                                     XAVIER
                         Zurich. Where did you go?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      21.

                                     SHELLEY
                         I trained here under Mr. Strozzi 
                         and at college. Eventually, I was 
                         his senior cosmetician.

                                     XAVIER
                         How are you coping with the Huysman 
                         regime?

                                     SHELLEY
                         I like it.  It's a completely 
                         different approach. Beauty from 
                         within.

                                     XAVIER
                         Beauty is only skin deep. 

                                     SHELLEY
                         Not according to Huysman. Pure 
                         thoughts, a proper diet and plenty 
                         of exercise will allow your natural 
                         beauty to reveal itself. He then 
                         maintains it with treatments using 
                         only natural ingredients, made up 
                         here on the premises.

                                     XAVIER
                         And the punters are buying that?

                                     SHELLEY
                         You'll see for yourself. 

               Nadine enters with two mugs of tea.

                                     NADINE
                         Here we are.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Thanks, Nadine.

                                     XAVIER
                         Thanks, Nadine. Keeping cheerful?

                                     NADINE
                         You're welcome.

               Nadine exits and Shelley and Xavier sip the tea.

                                     XAVIER
                         She doesn't say much.

                                     SHELLEY
                         You wait 'til she gets used to 
                         you.

          27   INT. SALON.  DAY

               Huysman shows Xavier round the premises. The occupied 
               treatment rooms, showers, pool.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      22.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You'll work on my clients when I 
                         feel you are ready.  Until then, 
                         you will watch and learn.

               Xavier is cool with that.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Annabel will be needing time off 
                         for other duties- You can help 
                         with the preparations.  You can 
                         boil a kettle?

                                     XAVIER
                         I didn't do three years at college 
                         to make the tea.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I do and I own this place.

                                     XAVIER
                         Brickton owns this place.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         He put up the money and I must to 
                         put up with you.

                                     XAVIER
                         You'll get used to it.

          28   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Tricia is working on the appointments book.  

               Xavier enters through the inner door and looks out into 
               the street.

                                     TRICIA
                         Bored boiling herbs?

                                     XAVIER
                         I need Annabel?

                                     TRICIA
                         She's with Huysman.

                                     XAVIER
                         Again?

                                     TRICIA
                         They're developing new body 
                         treatments. the Temple of Huysman 
                         range.

               Xavier reads from a slip of paper.

                                     XAVIER
                         What's the difference between a 
                         herb decoction and a herb infusion?

                                     TRICIA
                         You should know that.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      23.

                                     XAVIER
                         I work from jars and bottles. 

                                     TRICIA
                         Ask Annabel then.

                                     XAVIER
                         I can't, can I?

                                     TRICIA
                         Ask Nadine.

                                     XAVIER
                         She doesn't know. I've asked.

                                     TRICIA
                         Ask Shelley.

                                     XAVIER
                         It's for Shelley. She's waiting 
                         with a client. I'll just boil them 
                         up and strain it off.

               MRS. EVELYN enters the reception from the street.  

                                     TRICIA
                         May I help you?

               Xavier hovers and listens.

                                     MRS. EVELYN
                         I have an appointment. Mrs. Evelyn. 
                         Eleven o'clock.

                                     TRICIA
                         Yes, that's right. I'm afraid were 
                         running a little late-

                                     MRS. EVELYN
                         I can't be delayed. I have no time.

                                     TRICIA
                         You are next.

               Xavier moves to Mrs. Evelyn.

                                     XAVIER
                         It's okay, Tricia, I'll attend to 
                         Mrs. Evelyn.

                                     TRICIA
                         Mrs. Evelyn is a new client.  
                         Huysman will want to see her first.

               Xavier ignores Tricia.

                                     XAVIER
                         Hi, I'm Xavier- Huysman's associate.
                         Will you come this way?

               Mrs. Evelyn follows Xavier through the inner door.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      24.

          29   INT. STOCKROOM. DAY

               Huysman and Nadine enter the stockroom in a hurry.

                                     NADINE
                         I've asked everyone. No-one has 
                         ordered it.

               Nadine pulls a cardboard box of supplies from a cupboard 
               and Huysman tears it open.  

               He reads from an invoice he is carrying.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Pearly lip gloss--party shimmer 
                         stick---Nail art satchel.

               He holds up the items one by one from the box and reads 
               out the labels.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Chinese camphor brightening mask---
                         stress relief eyepads.  And what, 
                         is a quick-fix kit?

               Nadine digs among the products and finds a pack.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         These are all Strozzi's witchcraft 
                         potions.  The very things I threw 
                         out on my first day here.

               He looks at the invoice again as Nadine tucks everything 
               back in the box.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         I want to see Xavier now.

          30   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               Xavier is completing Mrs. Evelyn's facial as Huysman enters 
               the cubicle.  

               Huysman watches in silence as Xavier works.  

               Xavier puts the finishing touches to the client's appearance 
               and steps back.  

               Mrs. Evelyn looks into the mirror and is very pleased with 
               her appearance. 

               She and Xavier look for Huysman's assessment.

                                     XAVIER
                         Mrs. Evelyn, meet the man himself- 
                         This is Huysman.

                                     MRS. EVELYN
                         You have trained your staff very 
                         well, Mr. Huysman.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      25.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Just Huysman.  I have a question 
                         for my help.

                                     XAVIER
                         The salon was running late- Mrs. 
                         Evelyn couldn't wait.  

                                     HUYSMAN
                         And how do you propose to return
                         the client to the community-
                         through the rear door or under 
                         cover of night?

               Mrs. Evelyn is about to speak but Huysman stares at Xavier 
               for an answer.

                                     XAVIER
                         She has the look of Huysman.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You have painted it on. The look 
                         of Huysman comes from within.

               He snatchers up a bottle from Xavier's tray.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Where did all this come from?

               Mrs. Evelyn stands up and prepares to leave.

                                     MRS. EVELYN
                         Tut, tut. gentlemen. Not in front 
                         of the client. 

               She smiles at both men and turns back to Xavier.

                                     MRS. EVELYN (CONT'D)
                         Xavier. You paint very well- I'm 
                         delighted. Thank you very much.

          31   INT. STOCKROOM. DAY

               Nadine and Mark are in the stockroom. She is collecting up 
               the items Xavier ordered into a large box.

                                     MARK
                         I'll credit Huysman with all this 
                         lot.  That should get me in with 
                         him.

               Mark watches as Nadine finishes packing up the box.  

               She begins to seal it with tape.

                                     NADINE
                         You'll have to carry it.

                                     MARK
                         No problem.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      26.

          32   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Tricia is looking at the photographs of Annabel as Huysman 
               hands them to her.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I think Rikki's done a superb job.

                                     TRICIA
                         Which one do you want me to send?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Let everyone see them first. It's 
                         what we want to achieve with every 
                         client. That is the face of Huysman.

          33   INT. SALON.  DAY

               In an empty treatment room, Xavier is reading when he is 
               suddenly alerted by a sixth sense.  

               He stands up and listens to an inner voice.

          34   INT. STOCKROOM. DAY

               Mark has the large box in his arms and Nadine moves to 
               open the door.

                                     MARK
                         Cheers then.

               Xavier appears in the doorway.

                                     XAVIER
                         I'll take that.

               Xavier looks deep into Mark's eyes. 

                                     XAVIER (CONT'D)
                         Change of plan. You two have better 
                         things to do, I'm sure.

               Holding the box, Xavier stares at Nadine for a beat and 
               exits, closing the door behind him.  

               Mark and Nadine are alone in the room and they are 
               irresistibly drawn into each others arms, kissing gently 
               and then more wildly.

          35   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               Shelley is alone in the cubicle, tidying up after her 
               previous client.  

               Huysman enters with Annabel.  

               He holds up a photograph from a sheaf of pictures of Annabel 
               in front of Shelley's nose.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Ooh. Is this for the competition?
                         Let me see?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      27.

               Shelley and Huysman admire the photos.

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         Don't you look lovely.

                                     ANNABEL
                         Thanks. Nice aren't they?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You are looking at the Image of 
                         Allure competition winner.

               Huysman chooses two photographs and hands them to Annabel. 

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Ask Tricia to post them off.

          36   INT. RECEPTION. NIGHT

               Tricia is waiting, dressed in her street coat.  After a 
               beat, Xavier, in his street clothes, enters from the salon, 
               ready to leave.

                                     XAVIER
                         Why can't he lock up by himself?

               Tricia doesn't know. 

               They both wait for Huysman to appear.  

               Huysman enters from the salon, overcoat swinging like a 
               cape over his shoulders, cane in hand and switches off the 
               lights and takes the keys from Tricia.  

               Huysman turns to confront the statue and Xavier freezes, 
               slightly alarming Tricia.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         That's where the Image of Allure 
                         winners cup will be standing.

               Huysman moves forward to deal the statue its nightly blow.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         This one will have to go. Won't 
                         you, Baldy?

               Xavier's eyes focus on the cane as it swing down and the 
               instant it strikes the serpents head, the cane breaks into 
               pieces.  

               Huysman recovers from the shock and kicks out, knocking 
               the statue over. 

               Tricia hurries pick up the statue, holding it in her arms. 
               Huysman turns on her.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Get rid of it now. I don't want to 
                         see that thing in here again.

               Huysman's face darkens as he turns to Xavier.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      28.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         You clear off and let her lock up.

               Huysman exits the salon, slamming the door.  

               Tricia and Xavier are alone in the semi-dark.  He takes 
               the statue from Tricia and slides the statue under the 
               reception desk out of sight.

                                     XAVIER
                         It'll be safe there.  Cover it 
                         with something.

               Xavier collects up the pieces of Huysman's cane and drops 
               them into the waste bin.

                                     XAVIER (CONT'D)
                         We'd had enough of his lack of 
                         respect.

                                     TRICIA
                         We?

                                     XAVIER
                         You and me.

               Xavier is close to Tricia and studies her.

                                     XAVIER (CONT'D)
                         You are the face of Huysman.
                         I said that from the beginning.

               Tricia is slightly nervous being alone with Xavier in the 
               gloom of the reception.

                                     TRICIA
                         I only work here-

               She patiently holds open the front door for Xavier.

                                     TRICIA (CONT'D)
                         And I've got to lock up.

                                     XAVIER
                         When is the closing date for that 
                         competition?

               Tricia hands Xavier the entry form. Xavier reads it.

                                     TRICIA
                         Not until the end of the month.

                                     XAVIER
                         Hold onto the photos for a minute. 
                         I have an idea.

                                     TRICIA
                         Huysman asked me to post them right 
                         away. 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      29.

                                     XAVIER
                         I will create the face of Huysman 
                         with you. 

                                     TRICIA
                         You mean you'll get me the sack.

                                     XAVIER
                         He can't sack the face of Huysman.   

                                     TRICIA
                         Anyway, think of all the other 
                         beauty salons who will enter.

               Xavier draws close and she can't pull away from him.

                                     XAVIER
                         You will win.

          37   INT. SALON.  DAY

               Huysman enters the room as Xavier works on HOLLY (Late 
               twenties).

                                     HUYSMAN
                         And why haven't I appraised this 
                         young women?

                                     XAVIER
                         She hasn't got time at the moment.

               Huysman snatches up a bottle and pulls Xavier from the 
               room into the corridor.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         This is the second time you have 
                         disobeyed me.

                                     XAVIER
                         You agreed I could attend to 
                         clients.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Under my guidance and certainly 
                         not without my having decided upon 
                         their treatment.

                                     XAVIER
                         She's looking for a conventional 
                         make-over. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Then what is she doing here?

               Huysman holds up the bottle.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         I thought I told Nadine to return 
                         this trash.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      30.

                                     XAVIER
                         Look, Holly has an important date 
                         tonight.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         And tomorrow? Does she not want to 
                         be as beautiful?

                                     XAVIER
                         Tomorrow is another day.  You have 
                         to recognise that need. Mrs. Evelyn 
                         was very happy- 

               Holly steps into the corridor from the treatment room. 

                                     HOLLY
                         Could you continue this discussion 
                         later? I haven't got all day.   

          38   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Tricia is at reception with Mark the salesman as Xavier 
               and Holly enter from the salon's inner door.

               Holly looks extremely glamorous. Huysman enters from the 
               salon and Holly makes sure he sees her before she exits 
               into the street.

                                     XAVIER
                         Another satisfied punter.

               Huysman turns on Mark. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         What are you doing here?

                                     MARK
                         You asked me to call in.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         And what's this? 

               Huysman snatches the order form Mark is holding. 

               Mark holds his breath as Huysman reads it out loud.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Titanium heat inducing body lotion, 
                         Age block serum.

                                     XAVIER
                         They look promising. I was going 
                         to speak to you about them.

               Huysman tears up the order form.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         We have already had that 
                         conversation.

               Huysman exits into the salon. 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      31.

               After a beat, Xavier gestures to Mark.

                                     XAVIER
                         Give me another order form.

          39   INT. BATH AREA. DAY

               Mrs. Warnet and Mrs. Gillesp, in bathrobes talk between 
               themselves as Huysman and Xavier, enter.  

               Xavier is at Huysman's ear and whispers.

                                     XAVIER
                         Why do you deny women their wishes? 
                         If Holly and Mrs. Evelyn return it 
                         will not be because of you.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Excellent.

                                     XAVIER
                         She looked sensational.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         A waxwork would look the same.

                                     XAVIER
                         If you let me deal with the Hollies 
                         of this world, the business would 
                         really take off.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You are here to learn my methods.
                         The Hollies and Mrs. Evelyn's of 
                         this world are lazy people, looking 
                         for easy solutions. Trickery. That 
                         is not the Huysman way.

                                     MRS.WARNET/GILLESP
                         Good morning Huysman.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Good morning.

                                     MRS.WARNET/GILLESP
                         Good morning, Xavier.

                                     XAVIER
                         Good morning to you,ladies. 

               Huysman addresses the two women.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         True female beauty is based on 
                         inner peace, a healthy diet and 
                         natural grace. That way, a woman 
                         will look beautiful at any age. 
                         All we ask is their patience and 
                         co-operation.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      32.

                                     XAVIER
                         And prompt settlement of the monthly 
                         account.

               Xavier shares the women's simpering laughter. Huysman is 
               not amused. He exits.

          40   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               Mrs. Gillesp is being attended to by Shelley. 

               Huysman enters and watches for a moment.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You wanted a word, Mrs. Gillesp?

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         I certainly do.

               Shelley continues the treatment.

                                     MRS. GILLESP (CONT'D)
                         Now I don't want you to take this 
                         wrongly, Mr. Huysman.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Huysman. Simply Huysman.

               Mrs. Gillesp is put off for a beat.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         As you know, I think what you are 
                         doing is laudable.  I am a big fan 
                         and I tell all my friends.

                                     SHELLEY
                         She's been very good at following 
                         the regime. 

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         But it's a long drawn out business. 
                         Healthy eating, inner calm and 
                         everything.  I do feel better, 
                         it's true-

                                     SHELLEY
                         Sparkling eyes. Glowing skin.

               Huysman flashes a keep quiet look at Shelley.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         But at the Mayor's ball, the other 
                         ladies- Mr. Gillesp noticed it too-
                         I'm not saying Shelley didn't do 
                         her best but-

                                     SHELLEY
                         Thank you.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      33.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         I don't think my inner glow is 
                         strong enough yet.  It could have 
                         done with more help...on that 
                         occasion.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         And so for the next occasion?

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         You're ahead of me.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Streets.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Coming up is a very important dinner 
                         for my husband. They're giving him 
                         a lifetime achievement award.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Oh, that's nice.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         That means we'll be at the top 
                         table. My husband thinks I should 
                         go back to my previous salon but I 
                         said no, I would like to take it 
                         up with Mr., er with Huysman.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Thank you, Mrs. Gillesp.  I think 
                         we should stick to our programme.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         You see, my husband is thinking of 
                         getting a tan- 

               Huysman exits, leaving Mrs. Gillesp open-mouthed.

                                     MRS. GILLESP (CONT'D)
                         Shit.

          41   INT. SALON.  DAY

               Huysman and Xavier are alone in a corridor. They exchange 
               words in hushed tones.

                                     XAVIER
                         Let me attend Mrs. Gillesp. I can 
                         achieve the same effect instantly- 
                         Without the pain.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         And it can be wiped off in an 
                         instant with cold cream and a tissue- 
                         Devil's work.

                                     XAVIER
                         Mrs. Gillesp wants miracles like 
                         that.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      34.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         The Devil cannot work miracles.
                         He is a charlatan, buying souls 
                         with his tricks.

                                     XAVIER
                         And you would double your client 
                         base.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         So Brickton's worried about his 
                         investment.

                                     XAVIER
                         This has nothing to do with 
                         Brickton. Your own assistants see 
                         you turn away custom and they can't 
                         understand it.  They say that 
                         Strozzi worked liked the devil to 
                         build the business...

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Strozzi worked for the Devil. He 
                         openly thanked him each night and 
                         expected me to do the same.

                                     XAVIER
                         Strozzi retired a wealthy man.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         And will go to Hell. You have a 
                         lot to learn.

               Huysman walks away. Xavier takes a beat to regard the 
               retreating Huysman.

                                     XAVIER
                         It is you who must endure a painful 
                         lesson.

          42   INT. SALON. NIGHT

               In the still of the night, Tricia is secretly being given 
               a full beauty treatment by Xavier to very sensuous music. 

               She steps from the steaming shower into a robe held by 
               Xavier.

               Amid flickering candle-light, WE dwell on the massaging of 
               Tricia's legs and shoulders and SEE her responsive face as 
               Xavier's hands relax her muscles and nerves.

               Xavier gently, caressing, applies skin cleansers and 
               moisturisers to Tricia's body, face and neck.

               Tricia squirms in a dreamlike mood as Xavier works on her.

               Her eyes open wide a beat before Xavier places  stress 
               relief eyepads over her eyes.

               He paints on her lipstick and slides a square of blotting 
               paper between her lips and she closes her mouth on it.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      35.

               As Tricia relaxes on the couch, her mouth closed on the 
               blotting paper and her eyes covers by stress pads, Xavier 
               takes her feet to paint her toenails.

               He draws near her and she responds to his caress until 
               they are making love in a pulsating, sensuous clasp that 
               overwhelms Tricia and she falls back in a trance.

          43   EXT. STUDIO. NIGHT

               In the silence and darkness of the early hours, Xavier and 
               Tricia cross the street to the front door of Rikki's studio.

               Xavier lays his hand on the lock and the door opens. 

          44   INT. STUDIO. NIGHT

               Against a white sheet and in front of several photographic 
               lamps, Tricia, now the face of Huysman, a strikingly 
               beautiful face, and wearing an evening gown, poses for her 
               picture as Xavier takes shot after shot. 

          45   INT. SALON.  DAY

               Huysman and Brickton face each other from opposite sides 
               of the room.

                                     BRICKTON
                         I know the figures.  You're not 
                         yet breaking even.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         The tide will turn.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Tides go back and forth. You've 
                         got to identify with the bigger 
                         picture.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         What does that mean?

                                     BRICKTON
                         When a thing isn't working, make a 
                         step-change.

               Brickton waves his hand around.

                                     BRICKTON (CONT'D)
                         Get into the loop. See what your 
                         competitors are doing. Copy them, 
                         better them.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I am bettering them.

                                     BRICKTON
                         I mean compete on prices.  The 
                         basics.

               Huysman tries not to hear but Brickton continues his 
               business lecture. 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      36.

                                     BRICKTON (CONT'D)
                         There's plenty of scope for savings. 
                         Fewer staff, cheaper ingredients, 
                         shorter sessions.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I am offering a completely new 
                         approach to womens beauty.

                                     BRICKTON
                         You are offering. Take it or leave 
                         it. That's no good. You've got to 
                         go out there and sell it.

          46   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Nadine looks up as Xavier enters from the street.

                                     XAVIER
                         Tricia not in?

                                     NADINE
                         It's her day off.

               Xavier, about to unbutton his street coat, stops.

                                     NADINE (CONT'D)
                         Huysman has been asking for you. 
                         Your uncle's with him. He's come 
                         to see how you're getting on.

                                     XAVIER
                         I've just remembered something.

               He pulls open the street door.

                                     NADINE
                         They've been waiting. 

                                     XAVIER
                         Look, tell Huysman I've just phoned- 
                         I've got a cold and won't be in.

                                     NADINE
                         What do you mean?

                                     XAVIER
                         I'm in bed with twenty-four hour 
                         flu. 

                                     NADINE
                         Supposing someone's seen you?

                                     XAVIER
                         Just do it, will you Nadine?  I'll 
                         be in tomorrow.

               Xavier exits into the street and Nadine picks up the phone. 

          47   INT. SALON.  DAY

               Huysman puts down the phone and turns to Brickton.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      37.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You'll have to see him another 
                         time- He's in bed with a cold.

                                     BRICKTON
                         What a generation. I've gone to 
                         work with gastric enteritis.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I'm sure you were very popular. 
                         Our clients prefer not to be sneezed 
                         over. For a change, Xavier has 
                         done the right thing. 

               Huysman and Brickton confront each other.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Getting back to our agreement-

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You believed in my inner beauty 
                         method. You believed in me.

                                     BRICKTON
                         I know, I know. But you have to 
                         provide what the customer wants 
                         when they want it.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         This isn't a two-minute photo booth.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Okay. But what's wrong with giving 
                         them an interim look while their 
                         inner beauty develops? 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         It was also our agreement that you 
                         wouldn't interfere.

                                     BRICKTON
                         A little business advice? 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I don't like spies. 

                                     BRICKTON
                         You mean Xavier? He's not a spy, 
                         he's my nephew.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I'm not establishing the Temple of 
                         Huysman to keep your relatives in 
                         employment.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Just Xavier. He's my ward.  We 
                         lost his parents when he was four. 
                         A tragic time-

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      38.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I can't see what that has to do 
                         with me.

                                     BRICKTON
                         I'm an entrepreneur. I look for 
                         good investments.  Xavier was 
                         already in the business.  That's 
                         why you interested me.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You might have mentioned it.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Well I am now.  He graduated with 
                         honours from the International 
                         Beauty Seminary in Zurich.

               Huysman takes a deep breath.

                                     BRICKTON (CONT'D)
                         He knows all the latest tricks-

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I don't use tricks. 

                                     BRICKTON
                         -And with all your knowledge and 
                         philosophy of Beauty from within-
                         This will do both of you some good.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         It will take years to get rid of 
                         all the rubbish Zurich has planted 
                         in his head.

                                     BRICKTON
                         You might get it through your own 
                         head that to succeed, you might 
                         have to change.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I am Huysman. I bring change.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Well bring it a little faster. 

          48   INT. SALON.  DAY

               Huysman is with Annabel. He strokes her shoulder feeling 
               the smooth skin.  

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You see how the oatmeal works with 
                         the buttermilk?

               Shelley enters and waits for Huysman and Annabel's 
               attention.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         What is it, Shelley? 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      39.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Debra Cooker wonders why you've 
                         lost interest in her programme?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Or are you saying that?

                                     SHELLEY
                         She's with me now.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Is she following the regime?

                                     SHELLEY
                         She wants you to notice the 
                         improvement.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         There will be improvement.  That's 
                         the whole idea.

               Huysman waits for Shelley to leave but she stays.

                                     SHELLEY
                         She want's your approval of her 
                         efforts. I think you should just 
                         pop in...

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Can't you see we're busy?

                                     SHELLEY
                         That will impress her even more.

               Huysman turns to Annabel. She is impassive.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         How am I expected to develop new 
                         treatments if I'm to be continually 
                         interrupted?

                                     SHELLEY
                         Treatments need clients. 

               Shelley angrily exits.

                                     ANNABEL
                         Debra is a friend of Mrs. Gillesp.

               Huysman sighs.

          49   INT. STOCKROOM. DAY

               Xavier is mixing a preparation as Tricia enters.  

               After a bear, Tricia takes out an envelope and hands it to 
               Xavier.  He drags out a letter to read it. 

               He finishes reading and sweeps Tricia off her feet.

                                     XAVIER
                         What did I tell you?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      40.

               Tricia composes herself. 

                                     TRICIA
                         What are we going to tell Huysman?

                                     XAVIER
                         He hasn't seen this yet?

                                     TRICIA
                         I managed to grab it from the post 
                         before he came in.

                                     XAVIER
                         Aren't you excited- Miss Image of 
                         Allure? Didn't I say you would 
                         win?

                                     TRICIA
                         I can't believe it. It hasn't sunk 
                         in yet. I'm so worried what Huysman 
                         will do. 

                                     XAVIER
                         No problem.

                                     TRICIA
                         I just know he is going to go 
                         berserk. 

                                     XAVIER
                         He's stuck with it. And don't worry 
                         about your job- He's stuck with 
                         you.

          50   INT. SALON.  DAY

               Huysman and Xavier face each other in the empty salon.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         The difference Xavier, is that 
                         Annabel is the apogee of the Huysman 
                         philosophy.  Tricia is just a made-
                         up tart.

                                     XAVIER
                         That's a shame because Tricia is 
                         the face of Huysman.

               Xavier waves the letter. Huysman can hardly speak.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I could kill you for this.

                                     XAVIER
                         For spotting your mistake and 
                         putting it right?  You're famous 
                         now. The Festival of Beauty has 
                         spoken. Everyone will want to look 
                         like Tricia.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      41.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Your money-grubbing uncle put you 
                         up to this.  

                                     XAVIER
                         It is all my work. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You are to stop making-up Tricia. 
                         I do not want my clientele being 
                         greeted by that painted face.

                                     XAVIER
                         It's not painted- It's permanent.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         What do you mean, permanent? Is 
                         this some ghastly new product you've 
                         discovered that stays on for months?

                                     XAVIER
                         It is the face of Huysman.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I decide the face of Huysman and 
                         it is Annabel.

                                     XAVIER
                         You've been overruled.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I decide what happens here and you 
                         are fired. And so is Tricia.

                                     XAVIER
                         Now you are being stupid. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You brought it on yourselves. This 
                         is gross misconduct which means 
                         instant dismissal. 

                                     XAVIER
                         You are making a mistake. Tricia 
                         is the face of Huysman. Without 
                         her, the Temple will crash about 
                         your ears.

               Xavier stares into Huysman face. Huysman turns away.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Get out of my establishment.  You 
                         are no longer employed here. Explain 
                         it to your uncle, whatever way you 
                         wish.

          51   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Annabel sits at the reception desk. Huysman is engaged 
               with Mrs. Gillesp alongside the desk.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      42.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         You know, you are really trying my 
                         patience-

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Annabel is the face of Huysman.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         The Image of Allure competition 
                         winner was Tricia.  It's in here.  
                         'Tricia- From the Temple of 
                         Huysman.'

               Mrs. Gillesp waves an open magazine under Huysman's nose.

                                     MRS. GILLESP (CONT'D)
                         Next minute, she's replaced by 
                         Annabel  That's very strange 
                         behaviour, Mr. Huysman- Even for 
                         you.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Huysman. Just Huysman.

               Mrs. Gillesp doesn't hear him.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         When I accompany my husband to his 
                         function I want to look like Tricia.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         We are realising your own inner 
                         beauty. Your programme-

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         You don't seem to realise that I'm 
                         giving you one last chance.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         That would be regrettable.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Very regrettable for you.  If I 
                         have to go elsewhere, we won't be 
                         back. Now, where is Xavier?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Xavier is no longer with us. It 
                         was only a secondment. Tricia too, 
                         has left us.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         There's something very funny going 
                         on.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I decide what happens in the Temple 
                         of Huysman-

               Mrs. Gillesp grabs Huysman's arm and pulls him out of 
               Annabel's earshot and speaks in a low voice to Huysman.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      43.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Let's get real here. You want to 
                         play Huysman and I'm going along 
                         with that.  I think you could 
                         produce genuine results, given 
                         time.

               Mrs. Gillesp holds up a hand to stop Huysman speaking. 

                                     MRS. GILLESP (CONT'D)
                         But you have to understand that 
                         I'm his third wife and I intend to 
                         be his last- So indulge me a little.  
                         You need me. One special make-over 
                         isn't going to kill you.

               She leaves Huysman and moves to the reception desk and 
               forces a smile for Annabel.

                                     MRS. GILLESP (CONT'D)
                         It's Wednesday week. I shall make 
                         a booking and say no more about 
                         it. That evening I will require 
                         the face of Huysman as shown in 
                         this magazine.

          52   INT.  SALON. NIGHT

               Annabel sits and jangles the door keys at the reception 
               desk.  At her feet under the desk,  the statue comes to 
               life with a pulsating, green glow.

               Annabel is suddenly bathed in the green light. Before she 
               can move she is enveloped in a swirling mist. 

               Annabel tries to rise but her action is frozen as the mist 
               closes in. 

               After a beat, the front door open and the mist is sucked 
               out into the street and clears. 

               Annabel has disappeared, the reception room is empty.

               Huysman enters from the inner door to find the desk vacant. 

               He picks up the dropped keys and looks around. The front 
               door is open.

          53   INT. STOCKROOM. DAY

               Shelley is preparing a mixture and steam rises from bowls 
               of infusions and decoctions.  

               Huysman enters and looks round the room.  He opens cupboards 
               and drawers, searching, searching.

                                     SHELLEY
                         What are you looking for?

               Huysman stops looking.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      44.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Where is Nadine?

                                     SHELLEY
                         She's dealing with the fresh fruit 
                         delivery. She'll be up in a minute.

               Huysman waits impatiently.

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         What's wrong?

               He doesn't reply.  

               Nadine enters with a tray of fruit and herbs and puts it 
               down on the table.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Nadine- Do we still have Xavier's 
                         muck?

               Nadine thinks so.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Fetch it, will you please?

               Nadine exits and Shelley stops her work.

                                     SHELLEY
                         It wasn't Tricia's fault, you know. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         She went along with it. 

                                     SHELLEY
                         People are still asking for that 
                         look. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         It is not the face of Huysman. 

               Nadine returns, struggling with a large, cardboard box.  

               Huysman grabs it from her and pulls it open.  He looks 
               over all the pots and jars of cream that Xavier has 
               collected.  

               He reads the labels, becoming more angry with each beauty 
               product.  

               Shelley and Nadine look on nervously as, with a roar of 
               anguish, Huysman sweeps the table clear with his arm, 
               scattering lotions and powders over the floor.

          54   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Nadine is at her desk and Debra Cooker sits waiting and 
               reading a local newspaper.

                                     DEBRA
                         Were you here when that young man 
                         was killed just up the road?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      45.

                                     NADINE
                         What's that?

                                     DEBRA
                         They've printed his photo. He still 
                         hasn't been identified.

                                     NADINE
                         Car accident was it?

                                     DEBRA
                         No. A freak accident. He was hit 
                         by a falling object from the block 
                         of flats just up the road.  Poor 
                         man's still in the mortuary.

                                     NADINE
                         When was that then?

                                     DEBRA
                         A few weeks ago now.

                                     NADINE
                         How awful.  

                                     DEBRA
                         Did you see the sports centre has 
                         been torched again.

                                     NADINE
                         That's why I never read the papers. 
                         It's too depressing.

               Shelley half-enters from the inner door.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Hi Debra. We're ready.

               Debra stands up, folds the newspaper and leaves it on her 
               chair to follow Shelley into the salon.

          55   INT. SALON.  DAY

               In the otherwise empty cubicle, Shelley is preparing 
               cosmetics as Huysman enters.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Have you a client?

                                     SHELLEY
                         Miss Cooker. She's bathing.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         How is she coming along?

                                     SHELLEY
                         Still sticking to the diet and 
                         everything.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Good.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      46.

                                     SHELLEY
                         She's a pretty woman anyway.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Meaning?

                                     SHELLEY
                         Some inner beauty can be pretty 
                         deep. People have to believe they 
                         have some.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         And Mrs. Gillesp?

                                     SHELLEY
                         Mrs. Gillesp, I think is your 
                         success story.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Has she talked to you about a 
                         special paint job she wants?

                                     SHELLEY
                         Yes. I said that was up to Huysman-
                         But I know what she means. She has 
                         to look the part on the night.

               Huysman is silent for a beat. Shelley just waits.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Could you provide that service?

                                     SHELLEY
                         I couldn't make her up to look 
                         like Tricia. No.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Why not?

                                     SHELLEY
                         Xavier had three years at one of 
                         the best colleges.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Never mind Xavier. If you tried- 
                         This once? Behind my back?. Could 
                         you get Mrs. Gillesp anywhere near 
                         Tricia's look?

                                     SHELLEY
                         She wouldn't let me. She expects 
                         that you will do it.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I have no use for that slop.

                                     SHELLEY
                         She's a very influential woman. I 
                         think you should try.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Would you help me?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      47.

                                     SHELLEY
                         I can show you what Mr. Strozzi 
                         taught me.   

          56   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Mark enters the reception carrying a large box and dumps 
               it in front of Nadine.

                                     MARK
                         Here you are. By hand, tout suite, 
                         as promised.  Told you he'd come 
                         round- You can't stop progress.  
                         'I am Huysman. This is my Temple 
                         of Gloom.' Sign here.

               Nadine scribbles on the delivery form and Mark exits, 
               bumping into Brickton who is entering the room.

                                     MARK (CONT'D)
                         See you later. Sorry. 

               Nadine picks up the phone and presses a button.

                                     NADINE
                         Green Mountain's here.

               She puts down the phone and is ready for Brickton.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Just passing.

                                     NADINE
                         I'm sorry?

               Brickton takes another look at the receptionist.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Tricia's day off?

                                     NADINE
                         Tricia is no longer with us.

                                     BRICKTON
                         The face of Huysman has left? What 
                         nonsense is this, now?   

               Shelley enters from the inner door and collects up the 
               cardboard box from the desk.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Oh good, that was quick. Hello 
                         there.

               Brickton nods a response. 

               Shelley smiles and exits the same way she came in.

               Brickton turns to Nadine. 

                                     BRICKTON
                         I want to see Huysman.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      48.

                                     NADINE
                         Who shall I say is asking?

                                     BRICKTON
                         The owner.

               Nadine picks up the reception phone.

                                     NADINE
                         A gentleman says he's the owner. 
                         Wonders if you have a minute? No 
                         appointment.

               She puts down the phone.

                                     BRICKTON
                         I don't need an appointment. 

                                     NADINE
                         He'll be with you in two minutes. 
                         Would you like to take a seat?

               Brickton sits and picks up the local paper and settles 
               back to read.

          57   INT. STOCKROOM. DAY

               Huysman and Shelley are in the stockroom and he tears open 
               the Green Mountain cardboard box to find the contents list.  

               He takes out a packet and reads from the label.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Collagen fibre pads.

               He ticks the list and hands the packet to Shelley.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         I can't stand this. Read them out, 
                         would you?

               Shelley steps up to the box and takers out one item at a 
               time as Huysman ticks the list.

                                     SHELLEY
                         No-fade cream. Mimosa mask.  Face 
                         and neck lotion with biological 
                         extracts.

               Huysman ticks and mutters.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Meaningless rubbish. It's zinc 
                         oxide. An old stand-by.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Suffused toned exfoliator.

               Huysman grabs the pack and reads the label. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Sulphide of calcium. Thought so.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      49.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Deep pore cleanser.
                         Pre-dust dust platform.
                         Micro Glitter lids.
                         Blotter sheets.
                         This takes me right back to Mr. 
                         Strozzi.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I've got a visitor. I expect it's 
                         all there. 

               Huysman hands the list to Shelley and exits.

          58   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Brickton is reading the local newspaper as Nadine checks 
               the appointments book.  

               Brickton turns a page and spots a photograph.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Xavier.

               Annabel looks through the window to the street.

                                     NADINE
                         Is it?

               Brickton gets to his feet. He stares again at the photograph 
               in the paper.  

               Huysman enters from the inner door.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Just passing, of course?

               Brickton turns to Annabel.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Where's the mortuary?

                                     NADINE
                         Mortuary?

               Brickton turns back to Huysman.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Xavier. He's been killed.  Freak 
                         accident.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         That's an old story. They can't 
                         identify the victim.

                                     BRICKTON
                         I can. That's my nephew. That's 
                         Xavier.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      50.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Rubbish. It's nothing like him. 
                         Anyway, Xavier was here until a 
                         few days ago.

                                     BRICKTON
                         I know my own sister's boy, dammit. 
                         I'm telling you- That is Xavier.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Annabel- Is that Xavier?

               Annabel takes the paper.

                                     NADINE
                         I've seen it. It's not him.

               Brickton turns from Annabel back to Huysman.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Of course it's him.

                                     NADINE
                         Well that's not the man who used 
                         to work here.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Xavier, plain as day. Where's the 
                         mortuary?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Sam, please calm down. 

                                     BRICKTON
                         I don't know what game you're 
                         playing.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I'm playing? This is more like one 
                         of your slippery business dodges 
                         to cut your losses and run.

                                     BRICKTON
                         You ponce. My nephew's lying in 
                         the bloody mortuary.

               Brickton turns to Nadine.

                                     BRICKTON (CONT'D)
                         Get me a taxi. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Get him a taxi. But remember, this 
                         has no bearing on our agreement.

          59   INT. CUBICLE. NIGHT

               Huysman is working on Shelley who sits in the treatment 
               chair under eyepads.  

               A photograph of Tricia, Miss Image of Allure, the Face of 
               Huysman, is stuck on the mirror.  

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      51.

               Huysman repeatedly glances at the photo as he attends 
               Shelley.  

               The Green Mountain preparations are to hand and he picks 
               up one jar and then another, reading the labels and becoming 
               more confused.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Concealer?

                                     SHELLEY
                         That's for the dark circles under 
                         the eyes- If these pads don't work.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Let me see.

               Huysman takes off Shelley's eyepads and peers closely into 
               her face.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         What do you think?

                                     SHELLEY
                         Mrs. Gillesp will need a skin 
                         illuminator.

               Shelley takes a hand mirror and inspects her eyes.

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         And see if you can get her off 
                         that beige lipstick.  She's always 
                         uses it but she's not eighteen 
                         anymore.

               Huysman falls back. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         This isn't going to work. 

                                     SHELLEY
                         It has to. Where Mrs. Gillesp goes, 
                         so do most of our clientele.

               Shelley takes a long look at Huysman as he works on her.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         If they are going to demand this, 
                         they can go. 

                                     SHELLEY
                         It only takes practice. You'll get 
                         the hang of it.

               Huysman takes a long look at his work on Shelley.

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         What? 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Clean it all off. Let's try again.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      52.

          60   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Nadine is at reception as Shelley enters from the street.

                                     NADINE
                         Afternoon.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Huysman gave me the morning off, 
                         we were up all night.

                                     NADINE
                         How did it go?

                                     SHELLEY
                         Hopeless. We got nowhere near 
                         looking like Tricia. We must
                         have tried a dozen times-

               She shows her face to Nadine.

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         My face is red raw.

                                     NADINE
                         Put some moisturiser on.

                                     SHELLEY
                         I've got everything on.

                                     NADINE
                         What will he do?  Mrs. Gillesp is 
                         coming in soon.

                                     SHELLEY
                         He's going for it. Is he in yet?

                                     NADINE
                         Yes but Brickton's with him.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Oh. In that case, I think I'll go 
                         shopping.

          61   INT. SALON.  DAY

               Huysman and Brickton face each other across the salon.

                                     BRICKTON
                         I've said what I came to say.

               Brickton moves to the door. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         The business is just about to take 
                         off. You could make a fortune from 
                         franchising the Huysman method.

                                     BRICKTON
                         I have no more interest in your 
                         work.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      53.

               Brickton stares hard at Huysman.

                                     BRICKTON (CONT'D)
                         You didn't know this fellow? 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I've told you. I thought he was 
                         your nephew.  He knew the business. 
                         That's all we know about him. Now 
                         he's left town.

                                     BRICKTON
                         I've informed the police. You'll 
                         be hearing from them.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I can't tell them anything more 
                         than I've told you. 

                                     BRICKTON
                         You had something to prove and 
                         nothing was going to get in the 
                         way of that.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You don't understand. There are 
                         dark forces at work here.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Dark forces, be dammed.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Dammed.

               Huysman turns away from Brickton.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         You may be right.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Come on. You're a man of science. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Things have happened without an 
                         immediate explanation. I only tapped 
                         him and my cane broke into little-

               Huysman stops short. He recovers himself. 

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Annabel walked out one night and 
                         nobody's seen her since.  The place 
                         has an air of foreboding. 

                                     BRICKTON
                         I'm through but the police won't 
                         be satisfied with dark forces. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         People depend on me for their wages.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      54.

                                     BRICKTON
                         Then wake up to this faxt. This is 
                         a business not a laboratory.   

               Brickton exits leaving Huysman staring at the closed door.

          62   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Huysman enters reception through the inner door.

                                     NADINE
                         Poor Mr. Brickton. Awful, the things 
                         that happen.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Yes. Awful.

               Huysman stares through the window into the street. 

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Have we still got Tricia's phone 
                         number?   

          63   INT. STOCKROOM. DAY

               Mark enters the room where Nadine is making up a 
               preparation.

                                     MARK
                         Here she is.

               He moves to her side and they kiss.

                                     MARK (CONT'D)
                         Everyone's swopped jobs.

                                     NADINE
                         Tricia left. Shelley is on 
                         reception.  We don't know what 
                         happened to Annabel. I'm just 
                         helping out until they find someone.

                                     MARK
                         Like it?

                                     NADINE
                         I liked my own job.

               Nadine nods at the list Mark picks up from the table.

                                     NADINE (CONT'D)
                         What's the one after lanolin?

                                     MARK
                         Cocoa butter. What's Horsetail?

                                     NADINE
                         It's a big plant with spiky leaves. 
                         Lots of silica.

                                     MARK
                         You're making a cream.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      55.

                                     NADINE
                         This is for weak fingernails. You 
                         rub it in your fingertips.

                                     MARK
                         We do a product for that.

                                     NADINE
                         Synthetic chemicals. Ours are all 
                         natural ingredients.

                                     MARK
                         Not all. You bought a stack of my 
                         stuff the other day.

                                     NADINE
                         That's for a one off special job. 

               Mark watches Nadine work.

                                     MARK
                         You're really into it, aren't you?

               Mark faces Nadine.

                                     MARK (CONT'D)
                         Good- Because I'm thinking of 
                         joining the crusade.

                                     NADINE
                         He wouldn't have you. 

                                     MARK
                         Not here. Harvest Health is looking 
                         for a local rep. They're herbalists. 
                         I'd get a welcome round here at 
                         last.

               Nadine moves closer to Mark.

                                     NADINE
                         You're very welcome round here.

               She draws close to Mark and they embrace. 

                                     NADINE (CONT'D)
                         If you remember.

               They kiss tenderly.

                                     MARK
                         I remember.

                                     NADINE
                         He's busy. Hanging on a call from 
                         Tricia. We haven't seen him all 
                         day.

               They kiss again but the door opens and Shelley enters.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Nadine, the client wants to leave.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      56.

                                     NADINE
                         It's ready. I'll just bottle it 
                         up.

                                     SHELLEY
                         That's not all you should bottle 
                         up. Huysman will go mad if he finds 
                         Mark here- He's in a terrible state 
                         at the moment.

                                     MARK
                         Where is he?  I'll introduce him 
                         to our new stress-busting pulse 
                         point sprays.

                                     SHELLEY
                         If you're tired of living, go right 
                         ahead. 

          64   INT. RECEPTION. NIGHT

               Shelley waits patiently at the desk for Huysman. 

               She absently flicks the door keys in her hand for something 
               to do.

          65   INT. SALON. NIGHT

               Shelley pokes her head round the door to see Huysman staring 
               at the wall from his chair.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Waiting to lock up. 

               Photographs of Annabel, the face of Huysman,  litter the 
               otherwise empty treatment couch.

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         Time to go home. 

               Huysman doesn't respond. Shelley enters the room.

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         Huysman? Are you all right?

               He slowly stands up.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Those competition judges don't 
                         know what they are talking about.  
                         Annabel is the image of allure.

                                     SHELLEY
                         And you should go home and rest. 
                         Why not take a couple of days off?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         And do what?

                                     SHELLEY
                         Read a book. Listen to some music. 
                         Bake a cake.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      57.

               Shelley sits down near Huysman and they are silent for a 
               beat. 

               She collects up the photographs and looks at them.

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         She is lovely. Have you heard from 
                         her? 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Annabel's natural grace is within 
                         every woman. It is a well-spring 
                         waiting to be tapped.  

               Shelley puts the photos in a drawer. 

                                     SHELLEY
                         I'm glad Tricia rang back.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Yes.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Have you heard from Annabel?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         She's not at home. I've called 
                         round a dozen times.

                                     SHELLEY
                         That's really spooky.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Dark forces-

               Shelley waits but Huysman doesn't continue. 

                                     SHELLEY
                         She did mention her brother was 
                         chronically sick. Perhaps that's 
                         what happened?

               Annabel takes off her street coat. They stand, facing each 
               other.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Am I totally misguided, Shelley? 

                                     SHELLEY
                         No. You have beliefs. That's to be 
                         admired.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Obstinacy. Stubborn self-belief.  
                         That's not so admirable. 

                                     SHELLEY
                         I think it's admirable.

               Shelley pecks Huysman's cheek. 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      58.

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         And you have the confidence that 
                         comes from knowledge.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I know the business, that's true 
                         enough. I was a research chemist 
                         in the cosmetics industry. Product 
                         development.

               They sit on the treatment bed together. Shelley waits for 
               Huysman to continue.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         I had a falling out with my company. 
                         They cancelled my research. Too 
                         costly, they said.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Mr. Brickton said there was a woman 
                         involved.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         They preferred products that 
                         promised much but delivered very 
                         little.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Cosmetics. 

               Shelley gently persuades Huysman to lie back on the bed. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Every bottle and jar contained 
                         expensive lotions and creams that 
                         held out an expectation of beauty 
                         and allure but most of all, hope.

               Huysman looks away. 

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Ellen knew this too but she chose 
                         to go along with it.

                                     SHELLEY
                         Ellen was your wife?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Partner. We shared a home. Worked 
                         in the same lab. I thought she 
                         would resign too- I was wrong. We 
                         split up.

               Shelley leans over and kisses him lightly on the lips. 

                                     SHELLEY
                         That's sad.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         We were together eleven years. It 
                         was very sad.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      59.

               Huysman responds and draws Shelley down to him. 

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         I wanted to destroy their myth. 
                         From my work I could see that the 
                         path to true beauty for women is 
                         to begin from inside.

               The two are together in an embrace. 

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         I managed to persuade Brickton of 
                         my ideas and he bankrolled this 
                         place, but you try convincing 
                         people.

                                     SHELLEY
                         You have convinced them. Everybody 
                         here is right with you.

               Shelley kisses Huysman's face as she softly speaks. 

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         Including the clients.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Thank you.

                                     SHELLEY
                         They know it will be a hard slog, 
                         but they are all determined to 
                         become beautiful the Huysman way.  
                         They are sure you understand that 
                         once in a while-

               Huysman and Shelley kiss and break apart.

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         They need a quick fix- Just for 
                         those special occasions. There's 
                         no harm in that.

               Shelley is close to Huysman and wraps her arms around his 
               neck.

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         The stoutest tree realises it can 
                         break. It understands it must bend 
                         with the wind.

               They begin to make love. 

                                     SHELLEY (CONT'D)
                         And know when to give in to 
                         irresistible forces.

          66   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               Huysman and Tricia solemnly line up bottles and jars in 
               preparation.  

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      60.

               Huysman's shaking hand knocks over a jar and it rolls off 
               the table to the floor. Tricia freezes for a beat and sighs.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         See if Mrs. Gillesp has arrived.

                                     TRICIA
                         Reception will let us know. Anyway, 
                         we're not ready for her yet.

               Huysman snatches the jar back up and take a breath to pull 
               himself together.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Thank you again for coming in, 
                         Tricia. I realise how difficult is 
                         was for you.

                                     TRICIA
                         It wasn't all your fault.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Just try to remember exactly what 
                         Xavier did.

                                     TRICIA
                         I said, I wish I could. I must 
                         have been in a sort of trance.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Think hard. Please try.

                                     TRICIA
                         I have.  Don't you think I want to 
                         create that look for myself?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You have it still. Did you not do 
                         that?

               Trivia doesn't understand. 

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         How did you get that way?

                                     TRICIA
                         What way? It's worn off now.

               Huysman spins her to the mirror and pushes her close to 
               the glass.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         It's still as fresh as the day it 
                         was done. Can't you see that?

               Tricia struggles free and pushes Huysman away.

                                     TRICIA
                         Stop it. I don't know what you 
                         mean. This is my normal face.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      61.

               Huysman holds up an apologetic hand.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Xavier gave you that face. 

                                     TRICIA
                         I've always looked like this. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Tricia- Try to remember what 
                         happened that day.

                                     TRICIA
                         I- I can remember how we began.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         That's something.

               Huysman waves his hand at the make-up. 

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Is everything here? Is this what 
                         you had?

               Tricia eyes the exotic collection of oils, preparations 
               and lotions.

                                     TRICIA
                         I think so- I don't know.

               Huysman holds the table to steady himself. He breathes 
               deeply.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Where is that Mrs. Gillesp?

          67   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Nadine is on duty at the desk as Mrs. Gillesp reads a 
               magazine. 

               Tricia enters through the inner door.

                                     NADINE
                         Here we are. Here's Tricia.

                                     TRICIA
                         Morning Mrs. Gillesp.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Oh, hello Tricia.  I didn't know 
                         you were back.

                                     NADINE
                         I like your hair.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Thanks. Recognise the style?

                                     TRICIA
                         We could be twins.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      62.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         I can't wait for that. You look 
                         lovely.

                                     TRICIA
                         Thank you. 

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         My spies tell me the other ladies 
                         have all gone to that new beauty 
                         salon in the crescent.

                                     NADINE
                         They're taking a chance.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         I just hope I'm not.

          68   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               Mrs. Gillesp is being prepared by Huysman who is applying 
               cleanser to her neck and face. He is very tense but tries 
               to keep the fact from her.  

               Tricia is nervous and her hand shakes slightly as she 
               selects a moisturiser for Huysman.  

               He looks anxiously at Tricia who urges him to take it. He 
               won't and continues massaging the cleanser into Mrs. 
               Gillesp's face.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         The best time to apply a mask is 
                         after exfoliation but our success 
                         with the Huysman method means the 
                         skin has a natural vitality.

               Huysman takes the moisturiser from Tricia.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Thank you. Please open it.

               He waits and she presents him the now opened jar.  He 
               spreads the cream over Mrs. Gillesp's face and neck, as 
               she relaxes, her eyes closed.  

               Huysman turns to Tricia. His brow is sweating and he wipes 
               his top lip with a nervous action.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Later I will use...

               A quick check to see that Mrs. Gillesp's eyes are closed 
               and Huysman reads from jars and bottles.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Luxury pearl and silk protein- 
                         It's a new concept with enzymes.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Oh yes/ I think I've heard of it.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      63.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         And a special range of...

               Huysman glances at the bottles. 

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         -Illuminators.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Oh, they're very modern.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I know my secrets are safe with 
                         you, Mrs. Gillesp.

               Mrs. Gillesp makes an agreeing noise and chuckles to 
               herself.

               Tricia holds up a pack for Huysman to read.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Our mask is a new one using pure 
                         Chinese camphor. It only takes 
                         sixty seconds but has a wonderful 
                         brightening effect.

               Huysman finishes rubbing in the cream and Mrs. Gillesp 
               opens her eyes.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Have you thought of adding hair to 
                         the Temple of Huysman?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         No. It's an entirely different 
                         discipline.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         I suppose so. 

               He quickly applies the mask to Mrs. Gillesp's face.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Sixty seconds.  Will you excuse me 
                         a moment?

               Huysman exits hurriedly leaving Tricia with Mrs. Gillesp.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Has he gone?

                                     TRICIA
                         For a minute.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         I hope this lasts way past midnight.

                                     SHELLEY
                         It will, Mrs. Gillesp.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      64.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Good. I expect Mr. Gillesp will 
                         want to continue the celebrations 
                         when he gets me home.

          69   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Huysman enters, hurrying into the reception through the 
               inner door.  He quickly pulls open the front door, taking 
               in a long, deep breath of air.

                                     NADINE
                         How's it going?

               Huysman doesn't answer but stands in the open doorway, 
               drawing fresh air.

                                     NADINE (CONT'D)
                         Are you all right, Huysman?

               Huysman waves a re-assuring hand and Nadine goes back to 
               her appointment book.  

               After a beat, Huysman is back in the room and closes the 
               front door. 

               He turns and spots the statue against the wall.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Where did that come from?

                                     NADINE
                         It's Mr. Strozzi's statue.  

               Huysman stares around him as if he is being watched.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Where did it come from?

                                     NADINE
                         I don't know.

               Huysman tries to avoid the statue and backs out of the 
               room through the inner door.

          70   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               Huysman enters the cubicle. Tricia sorts more bottles as 
               Mrs. Gillesp waits patiently under the mask.

               Huysman is sweating as he sits beside Mrs. Gillesp. Tricia 
               notices Huysman's state and holds his shaking hands. 

               He draws a deep breath and indicates to Tricia he is ready 
               to proceed.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Well, Mrs. Gillesp- It's had plenty 
                         of time to work, let's take a look, 
                         shall we?

               Mrs. Gillesp answers in a ghastly, animal voice.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      65.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Narlrr, grrghh, urghrlll. 

               Huysman' trembling fingers remove the mask. He is horrified 
               to find the skin under the mask is bubbling and blackening.  

               Tricia sees the apparition and takes a deep breath, holding 
               her mouth to suppress a cry.  

               Huysman pushes the mask back down on the face.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         A few more moments. I'll leave you 
                         to relax a little, Mrs. Gillesp.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Nrrgh, mmmnnnrgh. 

               Mrs. Gillesp presses the mask onto her face as Huysman and 
               Tricia exit together.

          71   INT. STOCKROOM. DAY

               Huysman and Tricia hurry into the room and Huysman retches 
               and sinks to his knees.  He vomits into a bowl. 

               Tricia is able to control her shock and leans against the 
               wall.

                                     TRICIA
                         What has happened?

               Huysman pulls himself upright. His face completely drained 
               of colour. He takes a beat to recover.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Her face is rotting away.

               Tricia tries to remain calm. 

                                     TRICIA
                         You're imaging things. That was 
                         just oils from the mask.

               Huysman turns from Tricia. He is sweating and can hardly 
               keep upright.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         The flesh came away from her cheek 
                         bones-

               Huysman stares at Tricia. 

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         I saw her skull.

                                     TRICIA
                         Huysman- Pull yourself together.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         You saw it too.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      66.

               Huysman grabs at Tricia. She pushes him away and she smacks 
               him to stop his mounting hysteria. 

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         You saw it- I know you did.

                                     TRICIA
                         I don't know what I saw. It looked 
                         like something has leaked from the 
                         mask.

          72   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               Alone in the room, Mrs. Gillesp is impatient and sits up. 

               She slowly pulls off the mask and stares into the mirror 
               to see that her face is eaten away, as if by acid and 
               putrefied flesh is hanging off a bare skull.

               She screams one horrified scream and tries to rise. She 
               collapses in a dead faint to the floor.

          73   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Nadine is suddenly on her feet, reacting to the scream she 
               heard.  

                                     NADINE
                         What was that?

          74   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               The hideous apparition of Mrs. Gillesp is on the floor.  
               Huysman and Tricia rush in.  

               Huysman pulls Mrs. Gillesp into the treatment chair and 
               covers her head with the mask.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         This is Xavier's doing. Where is 
                         he? You know, don't you?

                                     TRICIA
                         No.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Where is he? 

                                     TRICIA
                         He said he had other work to do.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         What other work?

                                     TRICIA
                         I don't know. Perhaps his uncle 
                         has another salon somewhere else?

                                     HUYSMAN
                         That wasn't Xavier. Xavier is dead.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      67.

                                     TRICIA
                         What are you saying? 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         Xavier was killed in the street 
                         just outside.  Someone took over 
                         his identity.

               Tricia struggles to understand.

                                     TRICIA
                         Someone? Who?  

                                     HUYSMAN
                         How did he know Brickton's nephew 
                         was on his way here?  Because you 
                         are in league with him.  Who is 
                         he, Tricia? 

               Tricia recoils from Huysman. 

          75   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Nadine stands at the reception desk as Xavier enters from 
               the street.

                                     XAVIER
                         Hello, Nadine.

                                     NADINE
                         What are you doing here?

                                     XAVIER
                         Huysman wants a word with me. He 
                         said to go straight through.

                                     NADINE
                         You know the way. I think there's 
                         a crisis. Someone's's shower was 
                         too hot.

          76   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               Xavier enters the cubicle where Huysman and Tricia cower 
               helpless over the comatose Mrs. Gillesp. 

               Xavier takes a beat to look over the scene.

                                     XAVIER
                         Well, Huysman-

               He turns to Tricia. 

                                     XAVIER (CONT'D)
                         And the face of Huysman...and- 
                         What have we here?

               Xavier pull aside the mask over Mrs. Gillesp's face. 

                                     XAVIER (CONT'D)
                         Oh dear- No face at all.  Huysman, 
                         what have you been up to?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      68.

               Xavier turns to Huysman. He takes off the mask from Mrs. 
               Gillesp and studies the ghastly mess. 

               Huysman and Tricia recoil from the sight.

                                     XAVIER (CONT'D)
                         I can help.

               Huysman tries to stop trembling. Xavier watches him.

                                     XAVIER (CONT'D)
                         Or I can leave.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I would like your help.

                                     XAVIER
                         And what else?

               Tricia watches in disbelief as Huysman kneels before Xavier. 

                                     HUYSMAN
                         I will restore the statue to its 
                         rightful place-

               Xavier waits for Huysman to continue.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Of honour. And always pay my due 
                         respect.

                                     XAVIER
                         Of course you will.

               Xavier is happy with Huysman pledge and puts back the mask 
               over Mrs. Gillesp's face.

               Huysman stands up. He cannot look at Tricia. 

               Xavier takes a deep breath and looks around the room. 

                                     XAVIER (CONT'D)
                         Right. Clear the premises and shut 
                         the shop.  Tricia stays- You go. 
                         Don't come back again tonight.

          77   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Nadine has on her street clothes and turns the salon sign 
               to 'Closed' as she waits by the door.  

               She can't say anything as she watches the penitent Huysman 
               stand the statue, pride of place in the reception and step 
               back a pace.  

               He makes a small bow to the statue and kisses it on the 
               head. 

               Huysman ushers Nadine out of the salon, following 
               immediately behind her, closing the door.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      69.

          78   INT. CUBICLE. DAY

               Xavier examines Mrs. Gillesp's rotted face carefully and 
               mutters to himself.  

               Tricia can't look and almost vomits.

                                     XAVIER
                         There is only one face of Huysman. 
                         You are wearing it.  I must take 
                         it back.

               She retreats from him but Xavier has her in thrall.  

               He seats Tricia in a chair opposite Mrs. Gillesp.  and 
               turns to Mrs. Gillesp covering her ghastly visage with a 
               silken cloth.

               Tricia is petrified as Xavier drops a similar cloth over 
               her face. It rises and falls against her fast breathing 
               and Tricia sinks into a trance.

               Xavier lights candles and turns off the main lights.

               In the soft, flickering glow, Xavier works swiftly on Mrs. 
               Gillesp, his hands taking oils and creams under the cloth 
               to apply to the stricken face.

               He mutters to himself and ceremoniously performs seeming 
               mystic rites and movements under the cloth.

               Xavier stands back for a beat. 

               He leans forward and whisks off the cloth. Mrs. Gillesp 
               has been restored to her normal condition but without a 
               hint of make-up.

               Tricia is prone under the silken cloth. Her breathing 
               steady.

               Xavier rests.

               After a beat, he begins again and places stress relief 
               pads to Mrs. Gillesp's eyes and opens her robe.

               Xavier gently, caressing, quickly applies skin cleansers 
               and moisturisers to Mrs. Gillesp's body, face and neck. 

               She squirms in a content, dreamlike state and across the 
               room, Tricia too, moves in rhythm.

               Xavier works on Mrs. Gillesp with slow, deliberate caresses, 
               using unguents and preparations as she sensuously responds 
               to his attentions until he takes her in his arms and makes 
               love to her.

               Across the room, under her silken cloth, Tricia experiences 
               the same sensations. 

               Mrs. Gillesp writhes a final time against Xavier and is 
               still. Tricia too, falls back and rests.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      70.

               Xavier takes away the silken covering to reveal Mrs. Gillesp 
               is now the face of Huysman and is radiant in the candle-
               light.

               Tricia is returned to her ordinary face. 

               Xavier is pleased with his work. He exits. 

               One by one, the candles burn down and Tricia is woken by 
               the hand of Mrs. Gillesp. 

               Tricia looks up to see Mrs. Gillesp's reflection in the 
               mirror and turns to see Mrs. Gillesp now wears the face of 
               Huysman. 

                                     TRICIA
                         The face of Huysman.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Huysman- You are a genius...  where 
                         is he?

                                     TRICIA
                         He had to go. He didn't want to 
                         wake you.

                                     MRS. GILLESP
                         Oh but he should have. I want to 
                         thank him.  I feel so...wonderful.  
                         Completely rejuvenated and alive.

               She enjoys a huge stretch.

                                     MRS. GILLESP (CONT'D)
                         I can't tell you...

                                     TRICIA
                         I think I know.

          79   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Nadine deals with a queue of prospective CLIENTS and is 
               continually interrupted by the telephone.

               Maek enters from the street and pushes his way through to 
               kiss Nadine. She waves him to go upstairs.

          80   INT. STOCKROOM. DAY

               The stockroom is empty of the preparation table and kettles, 
               scales etc. Instead, the shelves are stacked with boxes of 
               beauty products.  

               Shelley checks an invoice as Mark knocks and enters the 
               room. He takes a jar from his sample case.

                                     MARK
                         Okay, for a moisturiser and
                         toner it's expensive- But it's 
                         totally natural and has three times 
                         the polyphenols of green tea.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      71.

                                     SHELLEY
                         No use. We use Chemiboost. It's 
                         got intensive cellular hydration 
                         properties and new synthetic power 
                         vitamins.

               Mark looks at his sample jar and around the room at all 
               the boxes.

                                     MARK
                         Chemicals?

                                     SHELLEY
                         Yes, we have no bananas.  

          81   INT. RECEPTION. DAY

               Huysman enters the reception from the street, pushing his 
               way through the crowded reception.

                                     NADINE
                         Good Morning, Huysman.

               Clients fall quiet and turn to look at the impressive, 
               caped figure.  

               He moves to the statue and kisses its head before stepping 
               back and bowing to it.

                                     HUYSMAN
                         And a very good day to you, Sir.

               He straightens up, turns to the clients and smiles.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Good morning, Nadine. Good morning, 
                         everyone. 

               The street door opens and Annabel enters.

                                     HUYSMAN (CONT'D)
                         Well- Look who the wind's blown 
                         in.

               Fade down.