This screenplay is copyrighted to its author. All rights reserved. This screenplay may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of the author.
A Day In The Life
By
Charles A. Scaparo
Charles A. Scaparo
262 Second St.
Ilion, NY 13357
315-868-0070
Chachifresh@hotmail.com
FADE IN:
EXT./INT. CHURCH - DAY
JOE's feet slowly walk up steps that lead to a church door.
INSIDE CHURCH
AMY, the very attractive blond bride, makes her final approach to the
tall dark and handsome groom, DAVID.
Joe's feet now walk along the side isle.
Some people cry while others smile.
David accepts Amy from her father
PRIEST
Dearly beloved we are gathered here
today to join this couple in holy
matrimony...
The back view of Joe enters the vestibule on the side of the altar.
Amy smiles at David.
We see the lower half of Joe slowly walk out on to the altar.
PRIEST
If there is anyone here who does
not wish this couple to be wed,
let him speak now or forever-
A loud gasp fills the church.
Amy's eyes widen with shock.
David's face grows angry.
The priest turns slowly and confused.
We see the back of Joe's head with a gun held against it.
PRIEST
(closing the bible)
My son, please think about this
before you do anything drastic.
A bead of sweat rolls down the side of Joe's face.
His slightly above average look's have diminished due to his stress.
His hair is messy and he is unshaven. His hand trembles as he slowly
pulls the trigger.
Some eyes widen. Others are covered.
Joe's eyes close tightly as he pulls the trigger all the way
back...CLICK. His eyes open quickly as he looks toward the gun. He
pulls the trigger again, CLICK. And again, CLICK, CLICK, CLICK.
He holds the gun away and looks at it, BANG. The gun goes off and the
bullet ricochets around the church and knocks the head off of a statue.
EXT. CHURCH - LATER
Joe is handcuffed and shoved into the back of a police car.
The entire church has emptied outside. They yell and curse at Joe.
As the car drives off, Amy throws her bouquet at the window and David
flips Joe the bird.
Joe looks back at the unruly crowd with a blank stare on his face.
INT. MENTAL HOSPITAL - DAY
A very sullen Joe sits on a chair in hospital garb. There are many
other patients milling around aimlessly. Joe is approached by MIKE.
MIKE
By the blessed Mary mother of
Christ I bestow upon you these
Very important gifts.
Mike begins to hand Joe some pills. They are interrupted by an
overweight NURSE who intercepts the exchange.
NURSE 1
Mike, what are you doing? Let's go,
activity is over, back to your room.
The Nurse takes the pills and places them in her pocket.
As they walk to Mike's room he mumbles religious phrases and blesses
the nurse.
Suddenly, Joe is startled by a loud voice.
BERNIE
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday,
Wednesday, Thursday, pay day.
Joe looks up at Bernie's towering figure. He is balding, very scruffy
and speaks poorly.
BERNIE
What's your name boy?
JOE
Joe, my name is Joe. What's
yours?
BERNIE
(pointing to himself)
Bernaa.
JOE
Barney?
BERNIE
No Barna, Bernaa.
JOE
Bert?
Bernie explodes with anger. He kicks a chair and throws a table against
the wall.
BERNIE
(loudly)
No Bot, Bernaa, Bernaa, Bernaa.
A group of MALE NURSES rush over to restrain Bernie. The other
patients yell and scatter nervously as Joe moves quickly to the other
side of the room.
During all of the chaos, TERRENCE startles Joe by placing his hand on
his shoulder. Terrence is a black man in his forties.
TERRENCE
(pointing at Bernie)
Hey man, that big fella's name over
there is Bernie and mine, mine's
Terrence. Now don't you go
forgetting that.
Joe stares expressionless at the scrum in the center of the room when a
YOUNG NURSE approaches.
NURSE 2
Hello Joe. There is a doctor waiting
for you, if you'll just follow me.
Joe walks with the nurse down a hall and up to a door. He pauses for a
moment and walks in.
DOCTORS OFFICE - SAME
Joe waits alone in a dimly lit room. There are some documents hung on
the walls and some photos upon the desk. Joe reaches for a magazine on
the table to his right when the door SLAMS loudly on his left. Joe
turns quickly to see DR. VAN STEIGER in a long white coat with wild
hair and thick glasses. He sets his files on the desk and sits down in
his leather high back chair.
DR. VAN STEIGER
(looking over glasses)
I bet its day's like this you
wish you would have remembered
to load that gun right huh Joe?
(opening file)
Ha, I'm just kidding with ya Joe,
but the light won't work without
the bulb now will it?
Joe looks at the Doctor in disbelief.
DR. VAN STEIGER
Well, it say's here your in good
physical health, so what were
going to do is start group
tonight. Sort of tinker around in
there and try to understand why you
tried killing yourself at a wedding.
JOE
Tinker?
The Doctor stands up, closes the file and walks toward the door.
DR. VAN STEIGER
(turning towards Joe)
Oh Joe, you might want to learn
everyone's name around here, you
could be visiting for a while.
The Doctor winks at Joe and walks out of the room.
Joe holds a surprised look on his face while he stares at the door.
REC ROOM - NIGHT
Joe watches television with a few patients while others dance,
draw...etc.
A window slides open and the first Nurse appears.
NURSE 1
Okay everyone its time for your
med's.
The patients form a line at the window. Joe slowly approaches and is
greeted by FRANCIS, an elderly woman with make-up caked heavily on her
face. She wears a bad wig and her top denture falls when she speaks.
FRANCIS
Hay there handsome, I bet a woman
like me could show you a time like
you never had before.
There is some laughter in the back of the line that resembles a high
pitched machine gun. It is ANNA, Francis' competition. She also wears
a bad wig, but no make-up.
FRANCIS
What's so funny Anna?
ANNA
(quickly)
He's not gonna pick you he's
gonna pick me.
Anna laughs again and sticks out her tongue.
FRANCIS
We'll see about that won't we Joe?
Francis reaches out and grabs Joe's ass, he jumps uncomfortably as the
NURSE calls his name.
Joe walks up to receive his med's. He looks at the multiple colors in
his hand, scans the patients and tosses the pills into his mouth.
BEDROOM - LATER
Joe sits lethargically on his bed with some drool on the side of his
mouth. A NURSE walks to his door.
NURSE 3
Hey Joe.
Joe raises his head slowly.
NURSE 3
Group begins in fifteen minutes.
Would you like me to show you where
to go?
Joe nods as the NURSE walks over to the bed and helps him up.
She wipes the saliva from his face and escorts him to the door.
HALL
There are many patients milling about. Joe walks slowly from the drugs
he took and has distant look in his eyes. He is like a new celebrity
in the hospital as everyone vies for his attention.
Joe stops at the restroom and looks up.
NURSE 3
Do you need to go?
Joe nods.
BATHROOM
Joe looks at himself in the mirror.
FLASHBACK - JOE AND AMY ARGUING
- Amy throws a ring at Joe.
AMY
I don't love you any more. Your
going nowhere and I don't want
to go there Joe. It's over.
- She slams the door.
-- Joe reaches down and picks up the ring.
BACK TO SCENE
Joe splashes water on his face, dries himself and exits the bathroom.
LARGE ROOM - LATER
There is much chatter going on in the room. There are six people,
including Joe, sitting on chairs in a circle and one empty chair.
Dr. Van Steiger enters the room and sits in the empty chair. The
Patients continue talking with each other, but slowly cease when the
Doctor clears his throat.
DR. VAN STEIGER
Hello everyone. As you all know
I am Dr. Van Steiger and this is
group therapy. As you go around
the room and introduce yourselves,
please, tell us why you are here.
Everyone grows nervous and begins to fidget in their seats.
DR. VAN STEIGER
We'll start here with MELISSA.
Dr. Van Steiger reaches his hand toward Melissa. Melissa is a
seemingly cheerful and frail woman in her thirties. She straightens
herself in her chair and begins.
MELISSA
Hi. I'm Melissa and one night
a few weeks ago I was trying to
sleep. And my husband, he's a
chronic snorer-
Dr. Van Steiger looks at Melissa with raised eyebrows.
MELISSA
Okay, he WAS a chronic snorer.
So one night, while he was
snoring, I tied him to the bed
and put tape over his mouth...
Eyes widen in the group.
MELISSA
...then I poured a whole jar of
honey down his nose. I slept
great for days. Until the
police came looking for him and
caught a whiff of his rotting
body. So, now I'm in here with you
guy's.
The group is silent.
Melissa sits smiling and bubbly.
Joe stares blankly into the floor.
DR. VAN STEIGER
Okay Melissa thank you for
beginning.
(pointing to Joe)
Let's go to you next.
Joe looks up from the floor and addresses the group.
JOE
Hi. I'm Joe and I'm here for
trying to kill myself at my ex-
girlfriend's wedding.
Joe scans the room.
Everyone stares at him.
There is a moment of silence.
PATIENT 1
(excitedly)
I'll kill her for ya.
JOE
Excuse me.
PATIENT 2
No, let me kill her for you.
Everyone breaks into a frenzy and wants to kill Joe's ex- girlfriend.
A couple of fights start and many Male Nurses burst into the room.
Joe sits calmly.
REC ROOM - NIGHT
Joe reads a book when he is approached by Terrence. He pulls a chair up
next to Joe and sits.
TERRENCE
Hey Joe. What's up?
JOE
Hi Terrence.
TERRENCE
Call me T.
JOE
Okay, T.
Terrence leans back in his chair and looks over to a group of Nurses.
He takes a deep breath and exhales loudly.
TERRENCE
You know what I miss Joe?
I miss getting me a little of
that fine white meat that I used
snack on every now and then.
Now don't get me wrong, I love
those sweet chocolate soul
bunnies, but the taste of
something different is alright
every now and then.
Terrence looks at Joe and reaches into his pants.
JOE
Whoa man. I don't want-
TERRENCE
Now don't you worry none Joe.
I may be crazy, but I ain't stupid.
Terrence pulls out a key and shows Joe.
TERRENCE
I'm fixin' to get out of here and
get me some of that white meat I've
been dreaming about. I thought you
might want to come with me.
Joe looks around and then back to Terrence.
JOE
Well... T, I don't think so. I
really don't have anywhere to
go. And why me?
TERRENCE
Look around Joe, look around.
Joe slowly scans the room. Some patients are lethargic some laugh
hysterically. He stops on Francis, she is having a conversation with
Bernie. Her make-up is peeling and her top denture is bouncing off of
her bottom denture. Joe looks back at Terrence.
TERRENCE
It seems that you and I are the
only two here who know Tuesday
from August. And besides that Joe,
we could sure have a good time out
there with all those tasty little
muffin cakes.
JOE
(raised brows)
Muffin cakes?
TERRENCE
Yeah Joe, you know, those petite
little honeys no bigger than that
right there. (raising hand)
JOE
Interesting T, but no can do.
TERRENCE
Suit yourself Joe, but I'm leaving
tonight and with a big appetite.
Terrence places the key back into his pants and leans back.
TERRENCE
First thing I'm gonna do is grab
me the first woman I see, black or
white, and-
NURSE 1
And what is it your going to do
Terrence?
She holds her hand out. Terrence fusses while he reaches into his
pants, grabs the key and hands it to the nurse.
NURSE 1
Now lets go T we'll see if the
doctor can hook you up with some
of that "fine white meat" you've
been dreaming about.
Pleading his case, Terrence stands up and follows the nurse out of the
room. Joe watches them with a blank stare. He opens his book and
continues to read.
EXT. LAWN - DAY
Joe helps Francis apply her makeup. Some patients walk around while
others sit in a trance like state. Bernie and Anna are just behind Joe
playing ball.
Mike approaches Joe and Francis.
MIKE
Now doesn't she look just like
the blessed Mary? You do fine
work my son.
Joe looks up and smiles.
BERNIE
Play ball.
Bernie throws the ball to Anna. She misses it and it hit's her in the
face. She begins to cry. Joe rushes over to help her.
Anna lifts her head with an open mouth in an attempt to french kiss
Joe. He struggles to pull away from her tight squeeze.
Francis is emotional while the others become very excited and noisy.
As the Nurses break up the incident another Nurse approaches Joe from a
distance.
NURSE 2
(Waving)
Joe, Dr Van Steiger wants to see
you in his office.
Joe sneaks away from the unruly crowd and walks toward the hospital.
DOCTORS OFFICE - LATER
Joe sits in a chair and waits for the Doctor to enter. Joe reaches for
a magazine on the table to his right when the door SLAMS loudly on his
left.
DR. VAN STEIGER
Hey Joe. How are you feeling?
You look good.
JOE
Yeah, I feel pretty good.
The Doctor opens a file and skims through some papers.
DR. VAN STEIGER
Well Joe, you've put your time in
and you have made great progress.
I'm thinking about letting
you back out into that crazy
world again. What do you think?
JOE
Well, I feel that I am ready
to live a normal life again.
DR. VAN STEIGER
Well that depends on your
definition of...
(fingers in quotes)
..."normal", doesn't it Joe?
No, I'm just kidding with ya Joe.
I think your ready for the world
again.
Joe seems confused as he gives a half smile.
DR. VAN STEIGER
Here is the number to a friend of
mine. He owns a restaurant, he has
a room and a job for you. Now your
going to have to continue therapy
once a month until your new doctor
feels your no longer a threat to
yourself or anyone else. Understood?
JOE
Understood.
(a beat)
But why me?
DR. VAN STEIGER
You have potential Joe that's why.
The Doctor gives Joe the necessary paper work and they shake hands.
REC ROOM - DAY
Joe has a small bag thrown over his shoulder. He makes his last visit
with the patients. Francis and Anna become emotional while the others
could care less.
Joe heads down the hallway to the main doors. He takes one last look
back and exits the building.
EXT. STREET - LATER
Joe steps off of a bus and on to a busy street. He pauses for a moment,
looks around and then begins to walk.
He approaches a newsstand and notices a headline on a newspaper.
INSERT - HEADLINE
"SECOND BANK ROBBERY IN TWO
MONTHS NO SUSPECTS"
BACK TO SCENE
Joe purchases the paper and a cup of coffee and walks over to a pay
phone. He drops the money into the slot and dials. As he Balances the
phone between his shoulder and his ear; Joe sips his coffee.
JOE
Hello, may I speak with Carlo
please?
(he is bumped by a passerby)
Okay, I'll hold.
Joe sets the cup on a metal shelf and shakes the hot coffee off of his
hand.
JOE
Hello Carlo, This is Joe
Astaschitz.
(nodding head)
Yes, Astaschitz, I was
adopted. Right, well I was
hoping to get directions to
the restaurant.
Joe scribbles the address on the edge of the newspaper and ends the
phone conversation. He gathers his belongings and continues to walk
down the street.
EXT./INT. RESTAURANT - DAY
A small building in between two other buildings similar in size reads:
"PRIMO ITALIA."
Joe opens the door and walks in.
INSIDE RESTAURANT
There is Italian music playing. The restaurant is lit mostly by candle
light with an interior of dark wood that is beautifully accented in a
deep forest green. The walls are traditionally decorated with photo's
of entertainers from yesterday and today. He is greeted by SOPHIA, a
very beautiful hostess with long black hair.
SOPHIA
Hi, welcome to Primo Italia
do you have a reservation?
JOE
No. I'm here to see Carlo,
I'm Joe.
SOPHIA
Joe?
JOE
Just Joe.
SOPHIA
Okay, just Joe, I'll see if I
can find him.
Sophia smiles and walks into the kitchen.
After a few moments Joe is greeted by CARLO SARDANTE. Carlo is a clean
shaven short Italian man in good shape. His slick, dyed-black hair,
hides his true age.
CARLO
Hello Joe. I am Carlo it's nice
to meet you.
They engage in a firm hand sake.
CARLO
Have you ever worked in a restaurant
Before Joe?
JOE
No sir I haven't.
CARLO
Well Let me show you around and
introduce you to everyone. Then
I'll show you where you'll be
Staying. You've already met Sophia
and this is our head chef CHRISTOPHER.
They shake hands. Christopher is in his mid thirties, has short black
hair and his belly looks as if he has eaten too much pasta.
CHRIS
You can call me Chris. Good to
meet ya.
CARLO
This is HUMBERTO. He is our
Bartender and our eyes.
Humberto nods as if to indicate that Joe has no right to his hand.
Humberto is a small man in his sixties. He has glasses and thick gray
hair. He is always pulling his pants up and is very aware of his
surroundings.
CARLO
This is JOHN and KARA. They are
our two best servers.
Joe extends his hand and all three shake. Carlo finishes showing Joe
the remainder of the restaurant. He then leads him out the back door
to another entrance.
CARLO
Okay, now to your room. It's not
the Taj Mahal, but it should do
for now. It's cheap and dry so I
expect you'll be fine.
DARK HALLWAY - SAME
Joe And Carlo walk on a worn rug passing some closed doors and old wall
hangings. There is some music being played behind one door and a beam
of light that peaks out from underneath another.
Carlo fumbles through some keys as they approach the door to Joe's
room.
CARLO
Well here you go Joe, the
presidential suite.
The room is small. A tiny bed protrudes out from the back wall that
faces a sink under a dusty mirror. The window on the far wall is long
and wide which looms over a tall brown radiator. The view is of the
street in front of the building.
CARLO
You'll have to share the bathroom
with the other's on the floor, but
don't worry you wont see them much
and they're quiet, so they'll
expect the same from you.
Joe sets his bag on the bed and removes his coat. He walks over to the
window and looks through its dirty glass at the busy street outside.
CARLO
Here's a key and couple of
bucks to get you through the
night, you start tomorrow at four.
Now, Dr. Van Steiger is a good
friend of mine and I told him I
would take care of you. He thinks
you have a good future so let's
not disappoint him.
The two men shake hands once again and Carlo exits the room.
Joe empties his bag on to the bed. Toothpaste and brush, some clothes
and a book. He opens the book to retrieve a hidden photo of Amy in
between the pages. He stares for a moment at the photo and tacks it to
the wall next to his bed.
HALLWAY - NIGHT
Joe locks his door, walks down the stairs and exits.
EXT. STREET - SAME
Joe makes his way down the street and weaves his way through a variety
of people. He stops and looks through a large window that shields a
wedding gown and tuxedo. In the background is a happy couple looking
through the pages of a catalog. Joe remains expressionless and
continues to walk.
In the distance, a neon bar sign reads: "CLANCY'S" Joe straightens his
coat and walks to the bar.
INT. BAR - SAME
Joe calmly walks up to the bar.
The room is shaped like an 'L' with a piano in the far end of it. The
bar takes up a corner in the bottom half, and there are some tables
that fill the open spaces. It's a clean place and filled with many
different people.
He looks at the vacant piano then studies the room and it's patrons.
He is interrupted by the bartender, CLANCY MURPHY. Clancy is a middle
aged gentleman with reddish hair. He has a slight Irish accent and is
groomed very well.
CLANCY
What can I get ya?
JOE
A beer and a shot of whisky.
Clancy prepares the drinks and delivers them to Joe.
CLANCY
First time here?
JOE
Yeah, first time.
CLANCY
(looking around)
What do you call fifty politicians
and fifty lesbians in a room
together?
JOE
I don't know.
CLANCY
A hundred people who don't do
dick.
Joe smiles and shakes his head.
Clancy wipes the bar and tosses Joe a free drink chip.
It slides along the bar and stops at Joe's full beer. Joe lifts his
beer to his new friend and drinks.
While Joe drinks his beer, he is bumped.
He spills the beer on his shirt and pants and quickly looks up.
Joe sees a very drunk NORM BRYSON. He is a tall muscular figure with
many tattoos. His hair is messy and he is unshaven. He wears a tight
short sleeve t-shirt with dirty jeans and work boots.
NORM
Oh man I am sorry. Let me get
you another drink.
JOE
Don't worry about it.
NORM
No way man...
(looking at Clancy)
...hey Clance, get him a couple
beers for me will ya?
Norm tosses some money on the bar.
NORM
Listen man I'm really sorry. My
name is Norm.
JOE
Joe.
They shake hands.
NORM
Well Joe, I have to run, other wise
I would stay right here and tie one
on with you, but maybe I'll see you
around.
Clancy replaces Norm's money with a couple of drink chips and a beer
for Joe. He returns Norm's change which is left for a tip. Norm
hurries out of the bar alone and Joe drinks his beer.
INT. JOE's ROOM - LATER
Joe closes his room door and sits on the edge of his bed. Obviously
very drunk as he stares at the photo of Amy; he stands slowly and walks
out of his room.
DARK HALLWAY
Joe walks along the wall and into the bathroom. He closes the door
behind him. From inside of the bathroom we hear the toilet seat being
lifted and Joe vomits loudly. The toilet flushes and Joe exists the
bathroom. He drags himself down the hallway and back into his room.
Joe closes the door and collapses on the bed.
JOE's ROOM - DAY
Joe wakes by the sound of a loud horn and bright sun light. His eye
squint as he walks over to the sink. After he splashes water on his
face he looks at himself in the mirror then to the clock, it reads
eleven thirteen. He lays back down and falls asleep.
LATER
Someone pounds on Joe's door.
VOICE (O.C.)
Hey Joe, are you in there? Its
after four.
JOE
(sitting up quickly)
Yeah, yeah, I'm here I'll be right
down.
Joe gets up slowly and slides on a pair of jeans. He shakes his head,
rubs his eyes and face and exits the room.
RESTAURANT KITCHEN
Joe enters the kitchen. It is very loud and busy with piles of dishes
stacked high. There is a very thin man who's unruly hair pokes out
from the edges of his hat; he work's frantically to catch up with the
dishes. It is PAUL GOOTZ, a "thirty something" year old who usually
has a cigarette hanging from his mouth.
PAUL
(handing Joe dishes)
Here, take these over to Chris.
Joe takes a pile of dinner plates over to Chris on the back line. On
his way, he bumps John almost knocking his tray over. John frowns
comically.
CHRIS
Come on, come on, lets go.
We now follow John as he walks out of the kitchen.
DINING ROOM
John delivers a plate of appetizers to a table of two and walks off.
At the table is Amy and David. They are engaged in an intimate
conversation.
AMY
I think it's time we took a vacation.
DAVID
Amy, we just had our honeymoon a few
months ago.
AMY
I know, but we can afford it.
Maybe for just a weekend.
They are interrupted again by John who delivers their drinks and walks
back to the bar. We now follow him to the bar where we see a very
beautiful woman with long shiny black hair dressed very well. It is
ADRIANA ROSSETTI with an older, attractive WOMAN talking over drinks.
ADRIANA
I just hope these classes go
well. If I make enough money I
can open my own studio. It would
be so nice to have my own place.
WOMAN
Well here's to your success.
They raise their glasses in a toast.
We now follow Kara from her table as she picks up some dirty dishes and
brings them into the kitchen to Joe. Joe takes the dishes and sprays
them off. Paul prepares to light another cigarette.
Paul
Smoke?
JOE
No thanks, I don't smoke.
Paul shrugs his shoulders and lights up. Joe continues his work.
INT. WAITING ROOM - DAY
Joe waits for his therapist and thumbs through a magazine. A door
opens and a client exits.
The therapist is DR. AMANDA WILLIAMS. She is an attractive lady in her
forties and very well dressed.
DR. WILLIAMS
Hello, you must be Joe.
I'm Dr. Williams. Wont you
come in.
They shake hands and Joe walks in.
INSIDE OFFICE
Upon entering, Joe is surprised by the head of a boar and other exotic
animals on the walls. The Doctor notices his reaction.
DR. WILLIAMS
I don't believe that hunting is
limited to men only.
The Doctor confidently walks over to her leather chair across from
Joe's and sits. As she scribbles on her note pad, Joe looks around at
the many trophies and slowly makes his way to his seat.
DR. WILLIAMS
So how have you been feeling these
days Joe?
JOE
Well, not so bad I guess. I've
been working a lot. That sort of
keeps me busy.
DR. WILLIAMS
Any thoughts of hurting your self?
JOE
Not since the wedding.
DR. WILLIAMS
Well that is good to hear. How
do you like your job?
JOE
Is pretty good. The restaurant
gets really busy and this one guy,
Humberto, he's the one who should
be in here. He's a little crazy.
Joe makes a strange face and twirls his finger around his ear.
DR. WILLIAMS
Now Joe, we're not here to discuss
anyone else. This is about you.
Joe nods.
DR. WILLIAMS
Joe, we're going to start slowly and
make sure your comfortable with
everything. Then we'll work our way
into areas you probably haven't thought
about for a while. But for today we'll
just get to know each other a little,
sound ok?
JOE
Sounds fine.
Joe stares blankly into the rug for a moment
DR. WILLIAMS
Joe?
He slowly looks up.
JOE
I'm trying not to look up your
skirt.
OUTSIDE OFFICE
The door opens and the two begin to exit.
DR. WILLIAMS
Okay Joe, I'll be seeing you next
month. Don't forget, find a hobby
or some activity you enjoy...
(raising her hand toward
her trophies)
..believe me, it helps.
Joe stares for a moment at the trophies and closes the door behind him.
INT. CLANCY's - NIGHT
The room is filled as Joe drinks alone at the bar. The piano is being
played by DEL JONES. Del is a bald, older black man in a classy suit
and tie. An obnoxious Norm walks in. He is very loud and drunk. He
sees Joe and rushes over to talk to him.
NORM
Hey, I told you we would meet
again.
Norm orders two drinks from Clancy.
There is a break in the music so Joe walks over to the piano, requests
a song and puts money in the glass. Joe arrives back to his seat with
a cold beer and his new friend Norm waiting for him.
NORM
So Joe, how long have you been in
the area?
JOE
Well, most of my life, but I just
moved into the city a few weeks
ago.
NORM
How come?
JOE
Long story.
NORM
I got time.
Joe looks at Norm and sips his beer refusing to go any deeper with him.
NORM
Joe, wanna go to a party?
JOE
(nodding)
Sure.
NORM
Let's finish these off and get
outta here.
The two finish their drinks, toss some money on the bar and walk out
the door.
OUTSIDE THE BAR
NORM
My car's right out back.
They arrive out back and get into Norm's beautiful black sports car.
Norm starts the car, cranks the music and peels off.
INSIDE THE CAR
Norm drives like a maniac as Joe straps on his seat belt. They pull
into a liquor store parking lot and exit the car.
INSIDE THE STORE
Norm and Joe walk the Isles.
Norm Grabs a flat bottle and shoves it down his pants.
He grabs another and walks up to the counter.
Norm has a lit cigarette hanging from his mouth.
CLERK
There's no smoking in here.
NORM
So call the cops.
The clerk gives Norm his change and they exit the building.
EXT./INT. DRIVEWAY - LATER
Norm's car screeches to a halt and narrowly misses a group of people.
He and Joe exit the car and walk into the garage. Norm gives a bottle
of whisky to a friend and pulls the other out from his pants. He opens
it, swigs it and gives it to Joe who does the same. Norm opens the
garage refrigerator and grabs two beers.
NORM
Hey Joe this way.
Norm kicks a box out of his way as Joe follows him through a door.
INSIDE HOUSE
There are many people around and the music is very loud. The two work
their way through the crowd, down a hallway and through another door.
BEDROOM - SAME
There is a black light and many posters of Elvis. On a desk is an old
bust of the king himself wearing a large collared shirt and a baby blue
jacket. Norm, in earnest, shows Joe the Elvis memorabilia until he
comes across a framed photo of a woman on the dresser. He hands Joe a
beer.
NORM
And this is my mom.
Norm is interrupted by a loud CRASH outside of the house.
The two rush down the hall and out the patio doors.
BACK OF THE HOUSE
There is an overturned four wheeler in the middle of some garbage cans
as many people laugh. Norm relaxes when he sees it is nothing serious.
NORM
Come on bro, let's go inside
There is someone I want you
to meet.
On the way back inside, Norm pushes a friend into the pool. Joe
smoothly takes his beer before he enters the water and drinks it.
LIVING ROOM
It is very loud. Many people dance and drink. Norm approaches MISSY
STREETER. Missy is a short, thick girl with tattoos and very dark
roots in her hair.
NORM
(yelling)
Hey Missy, MISSY.
Missy looks up at Norm and gives him a sloppy, drunken kiss.
Norm holds Missy with one arm as he gestures to Joe.
NORM
This is my friend Joe. I met
him at Clancy's.
MISSY
Hello Joe, Norm's new friend
from Clancy's.
JOE
Hi.
Joe swigs the bottle and hands it to Norm who does the same
NORM
Missy, where's your friend? I
was hoping she could meet Joe.
MISSY
She's right over there.
Missy points to a crowd in the next room. It is made up of all GUYS
and one GIRL. An attractive, but slutty girl who kisses a couple of
guys and drinks heavily.
NORM
Hey Joe let's go say hello.
JOE
No thanks Norm. I gotta get
going.
NORM
But you just got here.
JOE
I know, but I'm pretty fucked up.
(looking at Missy)
It was nice to meet you Missy.
Missy smiles and takes a swig off the bottle.
Joe takes another swig and grabs a beer from Norm for the road.
NORM
Joe, let me get you a cab.
Facing the opposite way, Joe waves to Norm as he walks away.
EXT./INT. STREET - LATER
It's very late as Joe walks by Clancy's and it is closed for the night.
He arrives at his building and stares at the front for a moment. He
finishes a beer and tosses it into the trash.
JOE's ROOM
Joe throws darts, but we do not see the target.
INT. RESTAURANT KITCHEN - NIGHT
Joe works frantically to keep up with the extremely fast pace of the
night. Everyone is very busy and it is loud. Humberto walks quickly
towards Joe with a raised, excited voice.
HUMBERTO
Jesus Christ. We need more glasses
I don't know what the fuck your
doing back here, but I don't think
it's your goddamn job.
Joe doesn't look at Humberto and continues what he is doing.
HUMBERTO
Do you fuckin' hear me? We need
more goddamn glasses.
Joe quickly leans over and grabs a crate of glasses. In the process it
slips out of his hands and crashes to the floor; many of them break.
He kneels down and begins to clean the mess.
HUMBERTO
Holy shit. Your as reliable as
a titless cow. Go down stairs
and grab a new box.
Humberto throws his arms in the air and walks out of the kitchen.
BACK OF RESTAURANT - LATER
Joe is smoking a joint with John and Kara.
KARA
Don't let the old timer get to
you. He's like that with
everyone.
She passes the joint to John.
JOHN
Yeah Joe, Humberto's pretty high
strung and he hates everybody.
KARA
(exhaling)
So Joe what did you do before
you came to this wonderful place.
JOE
I cleaned port-o-potties.
KARA
You what?
JOE
I cleaned port-o-potties.
You know, portable bathrooms.
JOHN
How did you land that dream job?
Knew somebody on the inside?
They all engage in a laugh.
KARA
We also heard something about
your last name.
Joe closes his eyes and shakes his head.
JOHN
(curiously)
Yeah, "has the shit's".
EXT. STREET - DAY
It is a nice sunny day. Joe walks in a different area of town. He
passes many new buildings and different faces. Along the way he hears
a style of jazz music that is unfamiliar yet enchanting. He follows
the sound that leads him to a building and a sign that reads: "Diamond
Dance Studio." Joe looks in the window and is mesmerized by the
beautiful dance instructor, Adriana, the same girl who was sharing a
drink at the restaurant. Her long hair is tied up in a bun. She has a
classic dancers body and is very sexy. She teaches six other students
an upbeat and rhythmic style of dance.
There is a break in the music
Adriana grabs her water bottle and drinks.
Joe stares at her in a trance like state.
She notices him looking in the window and walks over to him.
ADRIANA
(through window)
Hello there.
JOE
Hi.
ADRIANA
Are you interested in dancing?
JOE
Oh, I don't know.
ADRIANA
Come on. Its called Samba.
It's a Brazilian dance. Why
don't you come in and I'll show you.
JOE
(looking at his watch)
I don't really have time today.
When's the next class?
ADRIANA
We meet every Monday, Wednesday
and Saturday at eleven o'clock.
They stare at each other for a moment.
JOE
Then I guess I'll see you on
Wednesday.
ADRIANA
Eleven o'clock.
Joe gives a half smile. He takes a couple of steps backward and bumps
into a passerby. Adriana laughs. Joe gathers himself and continues on
his way. He looks back one last time to see Adriana's eyes follow him
down the street.
She waves.
EXT./INT. DANCE STUDIO - DAY
Joe stands outside the door for a couple of seconds getting up the
courage to go in. He starts to walk away, but turns around and opens
the door.
He is right on time. The class has started to stretch and warm up.
Adriana walks over to him.
ADRIANA
Well hello there. It's nice to
see you made it. I'm Adriana.
JOE
I'm Joe.
ADRIANA
Why don't you come and meet the
rest of the class.
Adriana walks Joe over to meet the group.
ADRIANA
Everyone this is our new recruit
Joe, Joe this is HECTOR.
Hector is a Mexican in his middle fifties. He wears very flashy
clothes reminiscent of the 1970's. His hair is very thick and slicked
back and he has a large smile with some discolored teeth.
HECTOR
(bowing to Joe)
How do you do?
ADRIANA
This is Marie.
Marie is an older woman in her sixties. She wears far too much make-up
and jewelry.
MARIE
Hello there handsome.
She holds out her hand for Joe to kiss it. There are many large rings
on her wrinkled hand. Joe looks at Adriana, she widens her eyes. Joe
reaches for her hand and kisses it.
ADRIANA
And this is GEORGE.
George is a tall fella with brown curly hair and the beginnings of a
small paunch.
Joe nods.
ADRIANA
This is MARTHA.
Martha is young girl in her teens. She has long blond hair tied
tightly in a braid along with glasses and braces.
JOE
Nice to meet you Martha.
Martha shyly looks to the floor.
ADRIANA
This gentleman here is GUNTHER.
Gunther is a fifty year old German with a traditional army style
crewcut. He has some tattoos and is in good shape.
GUNTHER
Pleased to meet you.
They grip hands firmly and make eye contact.
ADRIANA
And last but not least, SHANTELL.
Shantell is a heavier black girl in her twenties. She has very long
finger nails, much gold jewelry and wild hair.
Shantell winks at Joe.
JOE
It's nice to meet you all.
ADRIANA
Okay everyone let's get started.
The group takes their spots and Joe stands alone in front.
ADRIANA
Joe, you stand over there next to
Marie. She can guide you through
the beginning.
Joe walks over to Marie, she is very excited. Marie takes Joe's hand
and places him in the right position.
MARIE
Now honey you just follow me
and you'll do fine.
She winks at Joe and touches his face. Joe looks at Adriana and they
both smile.
Adriana goes on with class, educating them on the origins of samba and
some very basic moves.
DANCE STUDIO - LATER
ADRIANA
You've all done very well today.
Some of you will be a little
more advanced then others, but
you are all doing fine. I'll
see you on Saturday.
The class packs their belongings and start to leave the building.
Adriana approaches Joe.
ADRIANA
Joe, you seem to learn quick.
Will we be seeing you on
Saturday?
JOE
Eleven o'clock?
ADRIANA
(nods)
Eleven o'clock.
The awkward moment seems to last forever. Joe grabs his bag and walks
out the door.
EXT. STUDIO - SAME
Norm drives by and notices Joe. He SCREECHES to a stop in front of the
building. He is in his black sports car with the music cranked.
NORM
Hey bro.
Joe leans in the window.
NORM
Hop in.
Joe gets into the car and they PEEL OUT down the street.
NORM
Where are you coming from?
Joe tucks the bag under the seat and shifts uncomfortably.
JOE
Just out walking, I had the day
off.
The car SCREAMS around a corner and begins to make its way out of the
city.
JOE
Where we going?
NORM
There's a place outside of town
I want to show you. A couple
of my friends live there, I
thought we'd drop in.
The music grows louder as Norm picks up speed.
The car is far outside of town and approaches some rolling hills. It
turns on to a dirt road and leaves a trail of dust as it drives towards
a large Victorian house in the distance.
Gravel and dust fill the air as the car stops in front of the house.
They walk up the stairs and Norm KNOCKS on the door. The door is
opened by MICHELLE STEWART. She is a very good looking, petite girl
who wears "daisy dukes" and a tight tank top.
MICHELLE
(excitedly)
Norm!
Michelle jumps into Norm's arms and kisses him.
MICHELLE
Where have you been?
Norm sets her down on the porch and her bare feet settle gently on the
rough wood.
MICHELLE
And who is this?
She looks Joe up and down.
NORM
This is my good friend Joe.
MICHELLE
Well Its nice to meet you Joe.
Come on in you two.
They enter the house and close the door.
INT. HOUSE - SAME
MICHELLE
(yelling)
Hey CARRIE.
They walk into the living room. It is very spacious and decorated by
many antiques. At the far wall is a lighted multi colored juke box
that plays music softly.
Down the stairs walks a tiny, very attractive barefoot girl with hair
in pig tails, it is CARRIE TAYLOR. She is wearing a checkered mini
skirt and a t-shirt.
CARRIE
Hey Norm what's up?
She walks over to Norm and hugs him.
NORM
Carrie this is my friend Joe.
CARRIE
Hi Joe. Any friend of Norm's is
a friend of ours.
They shake hands as Michelle enters the room with four beers.
MICHELLE
So Norm, where have you been? We
haven't seen you in a while.
NORM
Well, just really busy ya know.
CARRIE
Yeah...
(looking at Michelle)
...we know.
Carrie smiles as she put's some weed in a rolling paper. She finishes
the roll, licks the paper and lights it up.
LIVING ROOM - LATER
There are many empty beer bottles and a half a bottle of whisky on the
table. The music is a bit louder. Norm and Michelle are slow dancing
when Michelle leads Norm to the stairs. Norm stops and looks back.
NORM
Carrie, you take good care of my
boy now alright?
Carrie smiles at Joe.
Norm smacks Michelle on her ass and chases her up the stairs.
Joe and Carrie chuckle and take a drink of beer. Carrie sets her beer
on the coffee table with the other empties and snuggles up to Joe.
CARRIE
So Joe, what's your story? How
did you end up here, in my place?
Joe reaches for the bottle of whisky and brings it to his lips, Carrie
grabs it out of his hand and drinks most of what's left. She hands it
back to Joe.
CARRIE
I mean it. What's your story?
Joe finishes the bottle and sets it on the table.
JOE
Well, I guess I just ended up here.
God's grand design, ya know?
CARRIE
Blah, blah, blah. Come on Joe I've
heard it all before.
Tell me really, what's Joe's story?
Joe stands up, walks over to the juke box and selects a song. He walks
back over to Carrie and she pulls him down on the couch with her. Joe
sits upright and takes a drink from his beer. He exhales.
JOE
A couple of years ago I was single
and living alone when I met, what I
thought was a great girl, so we
moved in together. Everything
seemed to be going okay, but one
day she just came home screaming.
The next day she was gone. She left
some stuff behind and I found a
letter from a guy she'd been
cheating on me with him for the last
year of our relationship. I heard
they were engaged right after she
left. So, I found out where they
were getting married and I tried
shooting myself at their wedding.
And obviously that didn't work so
now I'm here...
(looking at Carrie)
...at your place.
Joe drains his beer as Carrie looks sadly at him. She caresses his
face.
CARRIE
(in a whisper)
Joe, I am so sorry.
Carrie kisses Joe and grabs the beer from his hand. She sets the
bottle on the table and runs her fingers through his hair.
CARRIE
That is the saddest thing I ever
heard.
(a beat)
Did you miss or something?
Joe grows uncomfortable and straightens his position.
CARRIE
Come on Joe tell me. What
happened. Did you really miss?
JOE
No, I didn't miss, really.
I kinda...
(sadly)
...loaded the gun wrong.
Joe quickly turns toward Carrie.
JOE
So what's your story?
CARRIE
(pushing Joe back)
Lets just say I'm an entrepreneur.
And for that story, this one's
on the house.
She slowly moves her head down Joe's chest and into his lap.
The music plays louder.
Joe rests his head on the back of the sofa and stares at the
beautifully designed ceiling.
INT. RESTAURANT KITCHEN - NIGHT
Joe cleans dishes when Kara walks up to him.
KARA
Hey Joe, there's some girl out
there. She wants to know if your
too busy to talk?
And she's pretty too.
Joe looks over to Carlo who puts the finishing touches on a dessert.
Carlo nods to Joe giving him permission to go out. Joe takes off his
apron and wipes his hands dry.
DINING ROOM
Joe walks to the doors which lead out of the kitchen and scans the
room. He sees Adriana, Marie and Hector sitting at a table. He makes
his way over to the table and kneels down.
ADRIANA
Hey Joe. You remember Marie and
Hector.
MARIE
Of course he remembers me, right
Joe?
JOE
How could I forget?
ADRIANA
So when do you finish tonight?
JOE
Probably around eleven.
ADRIANA
We had planned on catching a movie
later and wanted you to join us.
JOE
I'll see if I can leave a little
early.
Joe looks at his watch and back at Adriana.
JOE
It's eight now, I'll try and see
if I can leave around nine.
ADRIANA
Okay, we'll come back around then.
Marie winks at Joe and Hector nods silently.
Joe stands quickly.
ADRIANA
Joe watch-
Joe SMASHES into John who carries a tray of drinks.
The drinks spill all over the floor.
Joe embarrassingly helps clean up; he walks hurriedly into the kitchen
with a tray of broken glass.
JOE's ROOM - LATER
Joe is in the mirror. He brushes his teeth and gives himself a once
over. He stands in front of the mirror and takes one last look at his
best attempt to look presentable. He shuts the light and walks out of
the door.
EXT. STREET - LATER
Adriana and Joe walk side by side as Marie and Hector walk arm in arm
in front of them. Marie's mouth is in constant motion for anyone that
will listen. It doesn't stop running.
JOE
So how did you know where I worked?
ADRIANA
I ran into your friend at the
store. I recognized him from when
he picked you up, he told me.
Adriana looks at Joe and laughs as Marie continues to talk.
As they approach the theater Joe begins to pull out his money to pay.
Adriana stops him and holds his hand in his pocket.
ADRIANA
I invited you, so I'm paying
for tonight. You can pay
some other time.
Adriana pays for the movie and they enter.
EXT. THEATER - LATER
Marie raves about the movie and Hector is silent. Adriana grabs Joe's
hand as the four meet near the street.
MARIE
That was so good. I didn't
think she was going to leave
him at the end though.
Marie grabs Hector.
MARIE
Your not going to leave me are you?
Hector slowly makes a motion as if he is zippering his lips closed. He
locks it and throws away the key.
MARIE
Oh Hector, let's go and leave these
two alone.
(looking at Adriana and Joe)
Have a good night you two. We're
going to see if this old Mexican
has any salsa left in his jar.
Marie grabs Hector on his ass.
He straightens quickly, looks at Joe and smiles.
They all say good night and walk separate ways.
EXT. ADRIANA's APARTMENT - LATER
The two reach the stairs which lead to her door.
They face each other.
ADRIANA
Joe, I had a really nice time.
JOE
Me too.
There is a moment of awkward silence.
Joe leans in slowly and kisses her.
She gently pulls away.
ADRIANA
I'll see you in class?
Joe nods and begins to walk down the street. He turns back to see
Adriana, she stares at him from her steps.
She waves her hand to Joe as he disappears in the shadows.
INT. CLANCY's - NIGHT
Joe talks with Clancy at the bar. Del finishes playing the song and
sits next to Joe.
DEL
Hey Clance, how 'bout a beer.
CLANCY
You got it Del.
Del grabs a couple of beer nuts and looks at Joe.
DEL
You've been around a lot lately.
What's everyone call ya?
JOE
Joe.
DEL
Well Joe, I'm Del. It's nice
to meet you.
Clancy brings a beer for Del. He also has a bottle of whisky and three
shot glasses. He fills the glasses.
CLANCY
Here's to friends, huh.
The three men put their glasses together and slam the shots.
Clancy
That'll be nine bucks.
Joe reaches into his pocket for money.
CLANCY
(laughing)
Put your money away. Its on me.
DEL
(chuckling)
That's funny Clance, that's funny.
They all have a good laugh at Joe's expense. Del sips his beer.
JOE
So Del, if you don't mind me
asking, where are you from?
DEL
I don't mind at all. I'm from a
few places, but mostly the south.
I traveled a lot for the music and
ended up here.
JOE
Do you have a family?
DEL
No family. But I did have myself
a wonderful wife one day long ago.
She's been gone now 'bout fifteen
years.
JOE
I'm sorry Del.
DEL
Now don't you be sorry none. She
was a great woman and I was lucky
to have loved her when I had the
chance.
Del and Joe both take a drink at the same moment.
DEL
(very seriously)
Now Joe, we only get but one or
two chances in this world to find
the right woman. And when you do...
Del turns to Joe and places his hand on the back of his stool.
DEL
...you gotta hang on real tight
and be sure you don't lose her.
Because you'll sure miss her.
Del faces the bar.
Del
Now let's get us another shot.
Del raises his hand to clancy.
INT. DANCE STUDIO - DAY
The class has finished for the day and they pack their belongings.
Adriana calls for their attention.
ADRIANA
Well everyone it's been almost a
month now and you're all doing great.
So for all of your hard work I'm
throwing a party tonight at my
house. Here are the directions.
Adriana hands out pieces of paper with directions on them and she stops
at Joe.
ADRIANA
I don't think you need this do
you Joe?
Joe packs his belongings into his bag and looks up.
JOE
I can't make it tonight, I'm
filling in for someone.
I...I'll probably be working late.
ADRIANA
Will I be seeing you later?
JOE
I'm not sure.
Joe walks toward the door looking ashamed.
Adriana is confused as she watches Joe walk away.
JOE
I'll see you next class.
Joe looks down and exits.
INT. THERAPIST's OFFICE - LATER
Dr. Williams writes something on her note pad then looks up.
DR. WILLIAMS
So Joe, this dance class your
taking, does it help you keep
your mind off of your ex?
JOE
Yeah, it's alright. They're actually
having a party for the class right now.
It helps keep me busy, but I still
occasionally have thoughts.
DR. WILLIAMS
What kind of thoughts?
JOE
Well, I had a dream the other
night about Amy. We were living
together and she was walking down
the stairs. I was behind her
holding one of those coconut
figures. You know, the kind people
get you when their on vacation, it
looks kinda like a monkey?
DR. WILLIAMS
Yes, I know the kind.
The Doctor points to a desk behind Joe.
He turns around and there is a coconut figure that looks like a monkey
staring right at him.
JOE
Yeah, that's the kind. Well, as
she is walking down the stairs
she turns around and smiles. I
look down at the head and it
turns into HIM, Amy's husband.
So I get so mad that I throw
the coconut monkey at her and
hit her right in the face.
She tumbles down the stairs
to her death. Well the monkey,
the monkey is lying right there on
the floor next to her. Sort of
like, they're both dead.
The Doctor finishes writing on her pad and takes off her glasses.
DR. WILLIAMS
Well Joe it is obvious that you
are still very much upset over the
breakup and your subconscious is
holding on to your anger. But your
no longer feeling as if your going to
hurt yourself so I think we're
making progress. We'll see you next
month.
Joe looks at the Doctor very confused. The Doctor stands up and opens
the door, she hurries Joe out. As Joe walks out of the room a tall,
very good looking man walks in and the door is shut and locked from the
inside. There is some laughter in the room as Joe walks away from the
door.
INT. JOE's ROOM - DAY
Joe thumbs through a small wad of cash. He places the money in his
pocket and walks out of the door.
EXT. STREET - LATER
Joe approaches a used car dealer. The sign reads: "HONEST DEALS,
HONEST CARS" Joe walks up to a beautiful red convertible. The
windshield reads: "BEST DEAL" Joe is approached by HAL. Hal has
sparkling white teeth and thinning blond hair. His suit is slightly
tacky, but not overboard.
HAL
Welcome to Happy Hal's. The best
deals in town. This one here is
my best car on the lot. She's
fully loaded and has low miles.
A real beauty.
JOE
How much?
HAL
Well, what are you looking to
spend?
JOE
About five hundred.
Hal puts his arm around Joe and walks him to the back of the lot.
HAL
Well sir, for that kind of money
I have this little beauty right
here.
Hal shows Joe a small, brown, four door compact car with a dent on the
fender and a lot of rust.
HAL
She's seen her share of the
road, but boy is she reliable
I'll give her to you for six cash
and you can drive her off the lot.
Joe looks the car over and opens the squeaky door. the interior is
torn and dirty. He steps back from the car and closes the door, but it
bounces back.
JOE
I'll give you four for it right
now.
Hal scratches his chin nodding his head. He points to Joe.
HAL
You got yourself a deal.
LOT DRIVEWAY
Joe drives the car off the lot and on to the street. He drives along a
bit and comes to a stop light. He reaches down to the radio and turns
it on. There's no sound. He turns the wipers on, only one works. He
hears a horn and looks up to see the light is green. In the distance
he sees a couple at a street corner waiting to cross. It is Amy and
David.
Joe grips the steering wheel tightly.
They begin to cross.
A horn honks again.
He hits the gas.
The car PEELS out for only a second and continues down the street. As
he nears Amy and David, there is a sputter in the engine. He looks
down at the gas tank and it is on "E". The car sputters again and
suddenly stalls. He coasts a bit and stops about thirty feet from his
target. Joe watches the couple cross the road oblivious to his
attempt. Joe rests his head on the steering wheel in defeat.
A horn honks.
EXT. STREET - NIGHT
Joe walks very sullen and slowly as he notices a movie theater nearing
him in the distance. As he gets closer, the lighted sign on the front
of the building reads: "TONIGHT ONLY THE JERK AND BARFLY." Joe
purchases a ticket and walks in.
INSIDE THEATER
There are few people in the seats and Joe is in the center eating
popcorn with a blank stare on his face. We hear in the background, the
scene in The Jerk when Steve Martin is broke and he is grabbing things
right after he says he doesn't need them. Joe pulls a small bottle of
whisky out of his coat and drinks.
EXT. STREET - LATER
Joe tosses his empty bottle of whisky into a garbage and spots a neon
beer sign across the street.
He enters the unfamiliar bar and orders a beer and a shot. After he
drinks the shot he notices a HAPPY COUPLE in a dark corner of the bar.
He pounds his beer and walks over to them.
JOE
Well look at the happy couple.
The two look up at him in an attempt to recognize him.
JOE
So has the bitch fucked around on
you yet?
GUY
Excuse me?
JOE
Don't you think she won't. She'll
grab your dick one minute and
suck...
(pointing to another guy)
...and suck his the next.
The guy stands up quickly in defense of his girl.
GUY
Listen buddy-
JOE
Don't buddy me.
Joe tries to push the guy on his shoulder and misses. He falls to the
ground and hits a table on the way down. The bouncer walks over, helps
Joe up and escorts him out of the bar. Joe mumbles incoherent phrases.
BOUNCER
I think you've had enough.
The bouncer puts Joe outside and closes the door. Joe straightens
himself, grabs a full bottle from his coat and drinks.
INT. JOE's ROOM - LATER
Joe throws darts, but we do not see the target.
JOE's ROOM - DAY
Joe is woken up by a knock at his door. He gets up slowly still
clothed from the night before and opens it. It is Adriana. His eyes
widen and he shakes his head.
ADRIANA
Hello Joe.
JOE
Hi, How did you find me?
ADRIANA
They told me downstairs, in
the restaurant.
(Looking him over)
You look like shit.
JOE
I Feel like shit.
ADRIANA
Well, I'm only here to see if
you'll be coming to class?
JOE
Yeah, I'll be there.
Adriana brushes Joe's hair back and slides her hand down the side of
his face.
ADRIANA
I guess I'll be going. I'll
see you later then.
She turns and walks down the dark hallway. Joe closes the door, leans
against it and hangs his head.
INT. DANCE STUDIO - DAY
The class has already begun as Joe enters. Nobody stops what they are
doing and Adriana looks over to Joe with a pleased smile on her face.
Joe jumps right in and continues with class. When the class finishes
Adriana walks over to him.
ADRIANA
I'm glad to see you made it.
She pauses for a moment and watches Joe put his belongings into his
bag. Joe stands up from the floor and throws his bag over his
shoulder.
ADRIANA
So Joe, I was wondering if you
would like to come to dinner
tonight, just you and me?
JOE
Sure.
ADRIANA
So it's a date then?
JOE
(half smile)
Yeah, it's a date.
Joe starts to walk out of the room when Adriana stops him.
ADRIANA
Joe.
He turns around.
ADRIANA
Everything okay?
JOE
Yeah...
(nodding)
...fine.
Joe smiles and walks out.
INT. RESTAURANT - DAY
Joe walks into Carlo's office. Carlo is doing paper work and he has a
glass of wine. He looks up when he notices Joe walk in.
JOE
Hi Carlo, I was wondering if I
could ask you a favor?
CARLO
Sure Joe, what is it? Have a seat.
Carlo removes a stack of papers from a chair and slides it next to his
desk. Joe sits down.
JOE
Well, you remember that girl that
came in the other night and
wanted to talk to me?
CARLO
Sure, sure, I remember her.
JOE
Well, she asked me over for dinner
so, I was hoping I might be able to
borrow a few bucks for some new
clothes, maybe a bottle of wine?
Carlo pours Joe a glass of wine and hands it to him.
CARLO
When do you need it.
JOE
Today, today would be good.
CARLO
Okay Joe...
Carlo sits back slowly and looks out the door.
CARLO
...but there's twenty percent
interest and you have two weeks
to pay in full...or you'll be
swimming with the fishes.
Joe looks at Carlo in a perplexed state.
CARLO
I'm just kidding with ya Joe.
There's no interest and just pay
me when you can, alright?
JOE
(shaking his head)
Yeah. Thanks Carlo.
Carlo opens a small book and begins to write.
CARLO
So how much do you need?
JOE
Well, two should be good.
Carlo reaches into his pocket and pulls out a wad of cash. He peels
off two one hundred dollar bills and hands them to Joe. Carlo slides
the money back into his pocket and writes something in his book. He
slides the book to Joe.
CARLO
This protects both of us, just
sign here.
Joe signs his name and the two men shake hands. Joe starts to walk out
of the room.
CARLO
Hey Joe.
(raising his glass)
Have fun.
Joe nods and walks out.
EXT./INT. ADRIANA's APARTMENT - NIGHT
Joe stands outside of Adriana's door with some new clothes and a teddy
bear dressed as a dancer. He knocks on the door and takes a quick look
at his reflection in the window. When the door opens Joe's eyes grow
large as he is struck by how beautiful Adriana looks. Her hair is down
and she is in a classy, form fitting black dress that shows off her
amazing shape.
ADRIANA
Joe, you look very handsome.
JOE
So do you...
(stammering)
...I mean, well, beautiful.
ADRIANA
Is that for me?
(reaching)
Its so cute. Thank you.
Joe hands her the bear and she takes his hand.
ADRIANA
Come in.
Joe walks into the apartment. It is lit mostly by candle light and
there is soft music playing. Adriana walks into the kitchen.
ADRIANA
Joe why don't you pour us a couple
glasses of wine, dinner's almost
ready.
Joe grabs the bottle and pours two drinks. He sips his and begins
going through her music collection. He sees everything from Mozart to
Metallica.
JOE
(raised voice)
I see you have a little bit of everything.
Adriana walks out of the kitchen with a bowl of salad.
ADRIANA
Variety is essential to happiness.
(sets bowl down)
Can you help me for a minute?
Joe sets his drink down on the table and walks into the kitchen. He
stops for a moment to absorb Adriana's beauty.
She turns around with a basket of bread and hands it to him. Joe takes
it into the dining room as Adriana follows him with two plates of food.
DINING ROOM - LATER
They have finished their dinner. Joe wipes his mouth and sets the
napkin on his plate.
JOE
Adriana, that was great.
(standing)
Let me help you pick up-
ADRIANA
No, no, stop, I'll get to it
later.
Adriana grabs her glass of wine and takes Joe's hand. She leads him to
the sofa. Joe sits first then Adriana. She sits with her back against
the arm of the sofa and her legs over his legs. Joe sets his glass on
an end table and rubs her leg. He stares at her for a moment and
brushes a piece of hair out of her face.
JOE
So how long have you been dancing?
ADRIANA
Practically all of my life. I
started lessons when I was five.
I always wanted to dance, but my
father wanted me to become a
doctor or lawyer or something.
(taking a sip)
I love music and dancing, not
scalpels and torts. So I had
lessons and went to college for
dance and now I'm hoping to make
enough money to open my own
studio someday.
Adriana sets her drink on the coffee table and gets a little closer to
Joe.
ADRIANA
So, what about you and your parents?
Were they in the restaurant business
too?
JOE
No, not exactly. I was adopted when
I was five. My real parents left me
with a neighbor one night and never
came home. So I was in foster care
for a few months and adopted by a
nice couple, Frank and Dotty
Astaschitz. They had a nice little
house in the country with a couple of
horses and some other animals. I used
to ride for hours in the woods, just
get lost out there.
Joe gets lost in his memory for a moment.
JOE
(half smile)
They used to give helicopter rides at
local fairs and other events. I would
always go along for the ride. There
was just something about being up there
I couldn't get enough of.
Joe's half smile turns into a look of sadness.
JOE
Then one day they let a couple in for
a ride. Something was weird because
they didn't want me to go along this
time. They never said why, but I
suppose they had their reasons. I just
looked at them as they flew away. They
waved and Dotty blew me a kiss.
(long pause)
As they disappeared over a hill I saw a
large cloud of smoke come up from the
other side. It was the last time I saw
them. It's almost like yesterday.
Adriana turns her face toward Joe and touches his cheek. She speaks in
a soft comforting voice.
ADRIANA
Joe I'm so sorry. It was a long
time ago. You can go on with your
new life. Anywhere you want Joe,
anywhere. Where would you want to go?
JOE
I guess I haven't really thought about
it before. But if I had to choose,
I guess I would just want to spend
some time on a beautiful beach
somewhere, away for a while, from
everyone...
(looking at Adriana)
...well, not everyone.
Adriana starts to kiss Joe. She leans into him and pushes him down on
the sofa.
ADRIANA
(whispering)
Maybe someday Joe, Maybe someday.
INT. BEDROOM - DAY
Joe rolls over in the bed and sees a note on Adriana's pillow.
INSERT - NOTE
"Joe, had to run, didn't want to
to wake you. Make breakfast and
lock the door when you leave.
I'll see you later. -A."
BACK TO SCENE
Joe rolls over on his back and sets the note down. He scans the room
from the bed looking at many photos of Adriana with friends and family.
He stands up and walks out of the room.
Joe enters the bathroom and relieves himself. He walks over to the
mirror, gives a half smile and nods his head a few times. He slicks
back his eye brows with his thumbs and winks.
INT. RESTAURANT KITCHEN - NIGHT
Joe does his job as usual when Kara brings some dishes to him.
KARA
Joe, you look different. What is
it? Did you get a hair cut or
something?
They are interrupted by Carlo.
CARLO
Kara leave Joe alone, I need to
talk to him.
Carlo waves Joe over to his office.
Joe sets the dishes down and walks over.
CARLO
Did you have a good time the other
night?
JOE
Yeah, thanks a lot Carlo.
CARLO
Good, good.
(closing the door)
You do good work Joe, always on time
and you never complain.
(points to a chair)
Have a seat.
Joe and Carlo sit down across from each other.
CARLO
Do you like washing dishes for me
Joe?
JOE
Sure Carlo, its okay.
CARLO
How about, maybe you learn to
cook a little bit, work with
Christopher on the line, huh?
Joe's eyes grow large and he is obviously excited.
JOE
Yeah, that would be great Carlo.
CARLO
Good. You start tomorrow. Now
it's a tough job and you have to
be here at one o'clock instead of
four, but you also get a raise.
So if you think your ready then,
finish tonight and we'll see
you tomorrow at one.
Joe stands excitedly, shakes Carlo's hand, walks hurriedly out of the
office and SMASHES into John knocking over his tray of food.
INT. JOE's ROOM - DAY
Joe looks at the apartment section of a newspaper. There are some
sections circled in red; he circles one more. Joe's room has
accumulated excess items and has become cluttered. Joe looks at the
room with a smile and exits.
JOE's CAR - SAME
Joe pulls up to the side of the road. He looks at the address on the
house and compares it to the one in the paper. He shuts the car off
and SLAMS the door shut. The car SPUTTERS and continues to run for a
moment. Joe ignores it and walks up to the house.
A lady waits inside the empty apartment when Joe knocks on the door.
It is MISS HARRISON, the realtor. She has very big red hair and large
breasts. She looks pretty good for being in her late fifties. Her
tight business suit is held together by a very large belt.
MISS HARRISON
You must be Joe. I'm Miss Harrison
come in.
Joe enters the apartment. It's a small studio apartment with three
rooms.
MISS HARRISON
This is the livingroom, slash
bedroom. It has pretty good
closet space.
In the background we hear sporadic SCREECHES as Miss Harrison
occasionally looks out the window.
MISS HARRISON
The bathroom and kitchen are small
but very clean and everything is
included.
Through a window in the background Joe's car makes small JUMPS down the
street. Miss Harrison continues to look.
MISS HARRISON
The rent is five fifty a month and
we'll need a security deposit if
your interested.
Joe is very excited about the apartment and doesn't notice anything.
JOE
How soon can I move in?
MISS HARRISON
Its available on the first of the
month.
(walking to the window)
Sir, is that your car?
Joe looks out the window as his car SPUTTERS down the street. Some
people look at it like it is possessed.
Joe rushes out of the door.
The door SLAMS.
He opens the door and sticks his head back in the apartment.
JOE
I'll take it.
The door SLAMS shut. Joe runs out into the road and attempts to stop
his car from the front as it continues out of control towards him. He
runs to the driver side door, but it won't open so he climbs in through
the window. It continues down the road for a moment and nearly misses
another car before he finally stops it.
INT./EXT. CAR
Joe SLAMS his shoulder against the door and it opens. He walks over to
the front of the car and notices it has come an inch away from hitting
the one in front of his. The vanity plate on that car reads: "HARRISON
1". He looks up at Miss Harrison and smiles. She stands on the porch
with a look of relief on her face and shakes her head.
INT. RESTAURANT KITCHEN - NIGHT
Joe works the line with Chris and they are very busy. He garnishes
plates and fills side dishes. The dinners come one after another.
KITCHEN - LATER
Joe and Chris wipe down the area and put away some cooking items. John
walks up to them with a couple of beers.
JOHN
Great night guy's. Here ya go.
They accept the beers, cheers and drink. Joe sets his beer down and
continues to clean.
CHRIS
Your getting pretty good at this
Joe. I just hope your not trying to
take my job.
Chris smiles after he says that, obviously being sarcastic.
JOE
Don't worry, I'm not after your
job Chris. This is just another
stop along the way.
Joe continues to clean as Chris watches.
BACK OF RESTAURANT - LATER
Joe closes the door and begins to walk to his entrance.
A car SCREECHES to a stop next to him. It's Norm, but no loud music
plays. The window is down and Joe leans in.
NORM
Hey bro, wanna go to a party?
JOE
Sure. Let me get cleaned up.
NORM
No way man, hop in let's go.
Joe stares for a moment making a decision.
He nods, gets in and they take off.
Norm is unusually quiet and he has a bottle of whisky between his legs.
He takes a drink, but doesn't hand it to Joe. Joe looks oddly at Norm.
Norm pulls into his driveway. There is no one at the house and it is
dark. They get out and Norm walks ahead of Joe in through the garage.
He takes a long drink from the bottle and SMASHES it against the
concrete floor. Joe looks a bit nervous as he follows Norm into the
house.
HALLWAY
Norm mutters some phrases and bounces drunkenly off the walls. He
knocks a framed painting down and kicks it.
NORM
Come on Joe.
Norm opens his room door slowly and stands at the entrance. He looks
back at Joe and walks in. Inside of the room Norm holds a photo of his
mother with tears rolling down his face.
NORM
She was the greatest. She was
always there when I needed her
and never made me feel bad.
Norm holds the photo at his side and looks up to the ceiling. He wipes
his face with his forearm and looks at Joe.
NORM
She got cancer when she was young.
She made sure she took care of us
though, me and my brother.
(looks back at photo)
No matter how sick she was, she
always took care of us.
Norm sets the photo on the desk.
NORM
She died when I was sixteen and
I miss her a lot.
Norm sits on the edge of his bed and hangs his head.
Joe looks around the room and notices a calender on the wall. He walks
over to it and notices that on today's date it reads: "MOM." Joe looks
at Norm. He weeps heavily as he lies down on the bed in the fetal
position.
On the table next to the bed, Joe is surprised to see a pistol. It is
lying in front of a photo of a young Norm, his brother and their mother
on the beach. Joe walks slowly over to the table and carefully picks
up the gun. He stares for a moment at Norm and walks out of the room.
OUTSIDE HOUSE
Joe exits the house through the garage. He takes another look back and
turns down the street.
INT. BAR - NIGHT
Joe drinks the ususal and talks with Clancy. Norm walks into the bar
and approaches Joe.
NORM
(looking Joe in the
eyes)
Thank you Joe, thank you.
Joe nods to Norm in silence, looks at him for only a moment and then to
his beer. Norm pulls out some money and turns toward the bar.
NORM
Hey Clance, how 'bout a couple of
beers over here.
CLANCY
Sure Norm.
Clancy brings over a couple of cold beers and Norm leaves his money on
the bar. He takes his drink and walks over to Del at the piano.
Clancy sets down the change and looks at Joe.
CLANCY
What was that all about?
JOE
I just gave him a hand with
something.
CLANCY
(wiping the bar)
Well, it seems you did a pretty
good job.
Clancy walks down to the other end of the bar and assists another
customer. Norm talks with Del and Joe sips his beer.
We hear the door open and see Adriana walk in. She walks over to Joe,
he is pleasantly surprised.
ADRIANA
I had a feeling I would find you
here.
JOE
(stands up and gives her
a kiss)
What's up? Let me get you a drink.
Clancy hurries over to see who the attractive woman is.
Joe looks at Clancy with a half smile; Clancy is wide eyed.
JOE
Hey Clance, let's get her a drink,
(looking to Adriana)
whatta ya drinkin'?
ADRIANA
Vodka tonic.
Clancy makes the drink and sets it in front of Adriana.
CLANCY
On the house.
JOE
Clancy I'd like you to meet
Adriana.
Clancy extends his hand and they exchange hellos. Meanwhile Norm
notices Adriana and walks over.
ADRIANA
Well hello Norm.
NORM
Hi there. So you remember me?
ADRIANA
Of course I do. You were very
helpful.
NORM
(shyly)
No problem.
Adriana smiles and takes a sip through her straw. She suddenly
remembers why she is there and quickly sets down her drink.
ADRIANA
Oh Joe, I almost forgot to tell
you. I was invited to go to Brazil
for a week to this workshop. It's
held yearly and all of the greatest
Brazilian dancers and teachers will
be there. Joe, I can't wait. I've
always wanted to be invited to this
I'm so excited. So what do you think?
Joe looks surprised, but he is also very happy for her. He stands up
and gives her a hug.
In the background Del has picked up the pace and some people have
started to dance.
JOE
That's great. When do you leave?
ADRIANA
Next week. I leave next Friday.
Norm pounds his beer and grabs Adriana by the hand.
NORM
This is cause for a celebration.
Norm takes Adriana out on the floor and they start to dance. He twirls
her and dips her while everyone laughs and cheers them on.
Clancy smiles at Joe and gives him a wink then looks back at the two on
the floor.
Adriana laughs, she is really enjoying her-self. She looks over to Joe
and smiles. Norm continues to move her all over the floor.
INT. AIRPORT - DAY
Joe stands along side of Adriana as she waits for her turn to board.
The Stewardess mumbles something on the intercom and opens the velvet
rope. People in front of Adriana begin to board.
ADRIANA
Okay, I guess it's time.
(grabbing her bag from
Joe)
Now I'll be back next week. Don't
forget to pick me up.
(kissing Joe)
I'll call you when I get there and
don't forget, next week.
Adriana is hurried as she boards the plane and blows Joe a kiss. Joe
smiles and waves goodbye.
INT THERAPIST's OFFICE - DAY
Joe sits across from Dr. Williams as she writes in her notebook. She
stops writing and removes her glasses.
DR. WILLIAMS
So Joe, you seem different today.
Is everything going well?
JOE
(Joe is smiling)
Yeah. Things are great. I'm very
happy right now. I have a new
apartment, I got a raise and I have
a great girl in my life.
DR. WILLIAMS
So what's her name?
JOE
Her name is Adriana and she is
a beautiful dancer. She's in
Brazil right now for the rest of...
(more)
(Cont'd)
...the week at a workshop.
She's really great.
DR. WILLIAMS
I'm very happy to hear this Joe.
She crosses her legs in a sexy manner and adjusts her seating
DR. WILLIAMS
But how are you doing with the
ex?
JOE
Great. I haven't seen her or even
thought about her much at all
lately. I think I'm doing really
good.
Dr. Williams places her glasses back on and writes some more in her
book.
DR. WILLIAMS
Joe you are definitely improving
and moving on with your life. At
this rate, you won't be seeing me
much in the future.
JOE
I certainly hope so.
(shifting uneasily)
I mean, well-
DR. WILLIAMS
I understand Joe. If you did want
to be here then I would really
worry about you, but it's great
that your moving on. You need to
make sure you stay focused and not
to let anything set you back.
Joe looks over to the coconut head and laughs.
WAITING ROOM
Joe walks out the door when he notices the same tall gentleman waiting
for the doctor on the sofa. The man stands, he and the Doctor exchange
smiles.
DR. WILLIAMS
(recovering)
Ok Joe, I'll be talking with Dr.
Van Steiger and we'll see how
things are going on your next visit.
Joe just smirks and walks out.
INT. GROCERY STORE - DAY
Joe is in line cashing out his final items. He pays the cashier and
grabs his two paper bags. The bags are full of many items and some
begin to flow over the top.
Joe makes his way to the exit.
He doesn't watch where he is going and SMASHES into Amy.
He Knocks her down and spills the groceries.
David quickly picks Amy up from the ground and PUNCHES Joe extremely
hard in the chest.
Joe is CATAPULTED backwards and into the automatic doors. The doors
open and Joe lands on the floor of the store.
He holds his chest in pain and turns on his side.
AMY
(stepping over Joe)
Watch where your going asshole.
Many people look confused as Joe gathers himself on the floor. He gets
his groceries back in the bag and walks to the car.
INT. JOE's APARTMENT - LATER
Joe SLAMS a bottle of whisky and an empty glass down on the coffee
table. He fills the glass and drains it, then fills another.
JOE's APARTMENT - LATER
We see an empty bottle of whisky on the table as the door closes behind
it. Joe has walked out.
EXT. STREET - NIGHT
Joe walks alone. He carries a five-pack of cans and drinks another. He
nears a Dead End that leads to a small hill. He stops, stares up at
the moon and finishes his beer. He flicks the empty off to the side of
the street into the tall grass.
In the distance we hear a train horn nearing.
Joe rips another beer from its plastic ring and opens it.
He begins to walk up the hill when a train passes loudly in front of
him.
When the train passes him completely he sits on one of the concrete
walls which encase the tracks. In the distance Joe can see the lights
of the city, but it is dark and silent where he sits.
VOICE (O.C.)
Hey Joe.
Joe looks around.
VOICE (O.C.)
Joe. You worthless piece of shit.
It's me...YOU!
Joe is very confused.
JOE
Who?
VOICE (O.C.)
You think she really likes you?
Who could really like a loser like
you? You're a goddamn fuck-up.
JOE
Who the hell are you?
VOICE (O.C.)
I already told you, I'm you. But
a much better you I might say.
I'm not a drunk loser who thinks
a beautiful girl could actually
like him. She doesn't like you
Joe, she's probably banging
some hot, sweaty dancer on the
beach right now. She don't like you
Joe, not a fuckin' chance!
In the background we hear another horn and see the light as it races
down the tracks.
Joe takes a long drink from his beer.
He looks down the tracks and sees the train.
The horn blows again.
Joe walks towards the tracks.
The light is much closer.
The horn sounds loudly.
Joe takes a couple of more steps toward the tracks.
VOICE (O.C.)
Do it Joe! Do it!
He drinks again.
He looks at the light, it is right upon him.
The horn sounds loudly.
The train passes by quickly and monstrously.
We see, from the other side of the tracks, the cars going by like
blinks of an eye. Joe's shadowy figure flashes quickly in between them.
The last car goes by and Joe falls to his knees.
His head falls back as he finishes his beer.
INT. JOE's APARTMENT - NIGHT
Joe throws darts, but we do not see the target.
INT. AIRPORT - DAY
Adriana has become frustrated while she waits for Joe. She looks at
her watch and shifts uncomfortably.
OUTSIDE - SAME
Adriana hops into a cab and drives off.
EXT. JOE's APARTMENT - LATER
She arrives at Joe's apartment. She pays the cabbie and grabs her
luggage. She notices the mail is piled up and his car is in the
driveway. She enters using her own key.
INT. JOE's APARTMENT
Adriana opens the door, she is shocked by the terrible mess left by
Joe. The apartment is cluttered with empty beer cans and bottles along
with fast food containers and whisky bottles. The answering machine
blinks and the television is on.
Adriana walks over to the phone. She kicks some garbage out of her way
to clear a path. She grabs an empty bottle from next to the machine.
As she holds the bottle up, she looks into its glass, she presses the
play button and listens:
CARLO
Hey Joe, it's Carlo you're a little
bit late. Maybe you need a ride.
Give us a call.
The machine BEEPS and we hear the next message play:
CARLO
Joe, it's Carlo again, give me a
call back.
The next message:
CARLO
Joe, we haven't heard from you in a
couple of days, let us know your okay.
The next message:
CARLO
Joe I hate to do this, but we need to
get someone in here to work, so I'm
sorry, I have to let you go.
The next message:
ADRIANA
Joe it's me, I hope your on the way,
I miss you. Bye.
The next message:
ADRIANA
Joe, where are you? If your not
here in twenty minutes I'm getting
a cab. Bye.
The machine stops and Adriana becomes very worried. She walks around
the small apartment looking for a clue as to what happened.
On her way out she notices something on the wall.
It is a photo of a girl.
The photo is of Amy and it is riddled with many little holes. Along
with the holes are a few multi-colored DARTS. Adriana looks oddly at
the photo, puts it back up and hurries out the door.
INT. CLANCY's - LATER
Adriana enters anxiously and walks up to the bar.
ADRIANA
Hey Clancy, have you seen Joe?
CLANCY
No. I was about to ask you the
same thing. Is he ok?
ADRIANA
I don't know. He was supposed to
pick me up from the airport and he
never showed. He's not home
either.
Clancy gets a look of concern on his face and yells down to the other
end of the bar:
CLANCY
Anyone seen Joe?
They all shake their heads in response. Clancy looks at Adriana and
shares in her dilemma.
Norm walks in and Adrianna excitedly approaches him
ADRIANA
Have you seen Joe?
NORM
Sure, I was with him last night
at my place. He was pretty drunk
though. When I got up today he was
gone. I thought he'd be with
you.
Adriana sighs and becomes very upset.
ADRIANA
I haven't heard from him and his
boss is letting him go because he
hasn't been to work all week.
NORM
Well that's not like Joe-
Through the door walks a very drunk and pathetically belligerent Joe.
He is scruffy and looks terrible.
JOE
Hey there baby. I thought you'd
be...
(shaking his ass)
...boogieing in Brazil with some
tan Chico's.
ADRIANA
(confused)
Joe, what's wrong with you?
JOE
WRONG? Nothings WRONG with me.
What's WRONG with you?
(leaning to the bar)
(more)
(cont'd)
Hey, gimme a shot. No, scratch
that, give me the whole damn
bottle!
Clancy looks at Adriana, she signals no. Clancy ignores Joe and walks
to the other end of the bar.
Joe seems confused.
JOE
(aggressively)
HEY! Gimme a drink!
(calmly turning to Norm)
Hi Norm.
Norm just nods to Joe and stays out of the conversation. Adriana puts
her hand on Joe's arm trying to get him to snap out of it.
ADRIANA
Joe, what happened? Tell me what
happened.
JOE
Everything. Nothing.
How 'bout a drink down here?
NORM
Hey Joe, let's go for a ride.
JOE
Alright, I'm driving!
ADRIANA
(grabbing Joe)
No Joe, your not. Let me take
you home. You can come to my
place.
Joe gets a very odd look on his face like he tasted something horrible.
JOE
Why don't you go wiggle your ass
in Brazil for someone else. I
don't need your help.
Adriana becomes emotional and starts for the door.
JOE
That's it, dance your way out of my
life, I'm used to that.
Adriana turns back.
JOE
(flicking his hand)
That's right, wiggle that ass on
outta here!
She leaves.
Clancy walks over to Joe with a bottle and a shot glass. He pours the
shot for Joe.
CLANCY
After that one I think you should
leave.
Joe drains the shot, pushes Norm out of his way and sadly leaves the
bar.
ADRIANA's APARTMENT - NIGHT
She lies in bed and cries.
JOE's APARTMENT - SAME
Joe sits in the dark. He drinks and smokes. He walks over to the
photo of his ex and rips it from the wall. He stares at it for a
moment and burns a hole through her forehead with his cigarette.
The phone rings. The answering machine picks up and it is John from
work:
JOHN
Hey man it's John, we were
wondering if you were okay.
Why don't you give us a call-
Joe walks over to the machine, he grabs it off the table and throws it
against the wall. It SMASHES to pieces all over the floor.
He walks out of his apartment.
STREET - LATER
He walks slowly in the dark. The streets are empty and most stores are
closed. He passes Clancy's then the restaurant.
He stands in front of the dance studio for a while and then continues
to walk.
Joe walks into an all night quick-mart and purchases a beer. The clerk
sets it in a small, brown bag and he exits.
EXT. ALLEY - LATER
Joe sits against a brick wall and drinks. We hear a siren in the
distance. As the siren grows closer Joe tilts his head. He stands up
to look where it is coming from and walks to the street.
He hears tires SCREECH.
The siren grows closer.
The roar of a car engine approaches.
A large older model four door car SCREAMS around the corner.
It is out of control and coming right at him.
He tries to focus.
Joe holds his bag of beer and stands like a statue.
The car quickly SKIDS towards Joe.
It CRASHES head-on into a telephone pole only feet away from him.
Through the windshield BLASTS out a hard shell suitcase.
The case slides along the pavement and stops at Joe's feet.
The horn of the wrecked car sounds.
He looks down at the case and then up to the car.
Down to the case and back to the car.
He looks around to see if anyone is watching.
He leans down, grabs the handle and walks nonchalantly down the street.
The police car rounds the corner.
Joe disappears into the dark.
JOE's APARTMENT - SAME
He locks the door and closes all of the blinds. Joe walks over to the
coffee table and slides the bottles and cans on to the floor. He sets
the case on the table and sits back.
STREET - LATER
The horn still blows as the POLICE OFFICER exits cautiously from his
vehicle. The driver's head is pressed against the wheel.
The officer walks slowly to the car.
His gun is drawn.
The driver is unconscious.
He now slides his way along the side of the car.
There is blood on the wheel as some trickle down the side of the
driver's face.
OFFICER 1
Place your hands where I can see
them.
Place your hands where I can see
them now!
The officer slowly moves in.
As he nears the driver, he reaches in and pulls his head off the
steering wheel.
The horn stops.
The driver is Norm.
His head falls against the back of the seat and the Officer radios for
the paramedics.
JOE's APARTMENT - SAME
Moments pass as Joe stares silently at the case. The lights are dim
and it is quiet. Joe sits upright and takes a breath. He leans
towards the suit case and places his hands on the latches.
They pop open easily.
He pulls his hands back quickly and squeezes them into fists.
He reaches towards the case again.
He very slowly opens it to reveal a large amount of CASH stacked neatly
in mixed bills.
Joe quickly closes the case and sits back.
His eyes are wide and blinks them tightly giving them a quick rub.
He swallows, exhales and sits up.
He opens the case once more; the money is still there.
Joe immediately reaches for the phone, but it is broken. He stands up
and paces the room.
Joe looks out the window, he can see the reflection of many official
vehicle lights as some speed past his apartment.
He immediately places the suit case in his closet and closes the door.
INT. JOE's CAR - DAY
Joe slowly drives down Norms street. There are many police vehicles in
Norm's driveway and officials roam the premises.
Joe continues to drive.
INT. CLANCY's - DAY
Joe walks into the bar and notices that Clancy is not there.
He walks up to the bartender.
JOE
Hey there, ah... where's Clancy?
BARTENDER
He's off today. Can I get you
anything?
Joe stares off into space lost in thought. He gathers himself and
responds:
JOE
Ah, no thanks. Say, Did you see
a big fella come in at all?
Tattoos, messy hair?
BARTENDER
Nope, nobody like that today.
Joe looks around the bar. The piano is empty and he doesn't recognize
anyone there.
JOE
Okay, thanks buddy.
Joe exits the bar and gets into his car. He drives a bit and pulls to
the corner.
OUTSIDE CAR
At a newsstand Joe reads the headline of the newspaper: "BANK ROBBER
CAUGHT MONEY STILL MISSING" Joe purchases the paper and gets back into
the car.
EXT. JOE's APARTMENT - LATER
Joe pulls into his driveway and gets out of the car. He runs up the
steps and into his apartment.
INSIDE
Joe sits on the sofa and begins to read the front page.
INSERT - NEWS ARTICLE
"Last night police gave chase
and apprehended to the man
believed to be responsible for
the latest in area robberies.
He is currently in city hospital
under heavy surveillance and
listed in critical condition.
His name is being withheld pending
an investigation."
BACK TO SCENE
Joe sets the paper down and sits back on his sofa. He scans the room
in its horrible disarray. He looks at his bag he had used for his
classes with Adriana and begins to think. Joe stands up and begins to
clean the apartment.
JOE's APARTMENT - LATER
The apartment is spotless as Joe puts the finishing touches on the
kitchen. He walks into the bathroom, grabs the razor and stares in the
mirror.
INT. DANCE STUDIO - DAY
Heather instructs the class as usual, but there is no Joe. At the end
of class Marie walks up to Adriana.
MARIE
Honey, you'll be fine. Maybe he'll
come around, maybe he wont.
ADRIANA
I know, but it was just so strange.
He went mad. One minute we're fine
and the next he's in a drunken rage
not making any sense.
MARIE
If it's meant to be then, well
you know the saying.
Adriana places her belongings in her bag and walks to the door with
Marie.
MARIE
I'm sure there's a good explanation
for what happened.
(looking at Hector)
He'll come around, they always do.
Hector motions with his hand the "talk too much sign" and stares
expressionless at Marie.
MARIE
I'll talk to you later honey.
He's so feisty.
ADRIANA
Bye Marie.
Everyone is gone and Adriana begins to lock up. As she turns her back
to the street and closes the door she is startled by Joe. He is on
bended knee with a hand full of multi-colored roses.
Adriana looks down makes an angry face.
ADRIANA
Get up.
He doesn't move.
ADRIANA
C'mon, get up.
She grabs the roses and walks down the street. Joe follows her like a
lost puppy. Her pace is quick and Joe struggles to keep up.
They reach her car.
ADRIANA
I see you've cleaned up.
JOE
Yeah.
(Joe looks around
avoiding the topic)
Adriana, I'm really-
ADRIANA
Stop! I don't want to hear it
if it's all just Bullshit. Don't
give me some story about how...
(mocking a dumb guy)
...the pressure got to you and
you were scared. Or you can't
get close to anyone because you
have trust issues. I don't want to
hear it if it's all bullshit.
Joe looks down to the ground. He looks back at Adriana.
ADRIANA
Well, Is it?
JOE
What?
ADRIANA
BULLSHIT! Is it all just bullshit?
JOE
No. It's not all bullshit. I have
something I want to show you.
She takes a deep inhale of the roses and lets out a long exhale.
Adriana looks at Joe and sets the roses on the seat through the car
window.
ADRIANA
You know, you were a real jerk.
JOE
I know. Will you follow me?
ADRIANA
Where?
JOE
Just follow me.
ADRIANA
(hesitantly)
Okay let's go.
They get into their vehicles and drive off.
The two begin to drive and Adriana follows Joe into an area of town she
is unfamiliar with. Adriana gets an odd look upon her face.
It is a well kept section with a lot of commercial space. Joe pulls
into a vacant parking lot. Their cars face a sign in a large glass
window that reads: "FOR SALE OR LEASE"
Joe gets out and meets Adriana at her car.
ADRIANA
What are we doing here?
JOE
You'll see.
ADRIANA
See what?
Joe pulls a key out from his pants pocket and holds it up to her face.
ADRIANA
What's this?
JOE
(pulling the key away)
It's a key.
ADRIANA
I know it's a key, but what's it for?
Joe takes her by the hand and leads her to the door of the building
that is for sale.
He opens her hand, places the key into her palm and closes her fingers.
JOE
It's for you.
Curiously Adriana looks at Joe and opens her hand. She looks at the
key and slides it between her fingers. She Inserts the key into the
lock and opens the door.
As she enters the room Adriana is greeted by two mannequins wearing
leis. One mannequin has a long wig covered by a large brimmed sun hat,
a sundress and sunglasses. The other has a baseball cap, Hawaiian
shirt and long shorts. Each holds a plane ticket and an umbrella
drink.
There is a sign in the background that simply reads: "ADRIANA'S"
Adriana walks over to the mannequins. She takes the large brimmed hat
and places it on her head. She removes a lei and puts it around Joe's
neck; she gives him a HARD KISS.
ADRIANA
(pulling away)
Am I supposed to forgive you now?
JOE
That's the plan.
ADRIANA
(looking around)
Joe, how can you afford all this?
JOE
Well, that's a story I'll tell
you later. For now we have to pack
we leave in two days.
ADRIANA
But what about the class? That's
just not enough time to pack!
I have so much to do.
JOE
Well then we better get going.
Joe takes the tickets from the mannequins and begins walking to the
door.
ADRIANA
Okay, okay.
(she stops and looks
at the room)
Joe, how did you-
Joe grabs her hand and pulls her out the door.
INT. PLANE - DAY
Seated by the window, Joe looks at the ocean.
Adriana reads a magazine. She Closes the magazine, grabs Joe's hand
and exhales loudly.
ADRIANA
Joe, I think it's time you told
me how you could afford all of this.
The trip, the studio...FIRST CLASS!
Joe takes the gum out of his mouth and shoves it into her's. Adriana
sits up quickly and chews. She blows a large bubble that POPS loudly.
Joe reaches down into his bag and pulls out the newspaper.
INSERT HEADLINE:
"BANK ROBBER REMAINS IN CRITICAL
CONDITION - MONEY STILL MISSING"
BACK TO SCENE
Adriana blows another bubble, this time she sucks it in and it SNAPS
inside of her mouth.
ADRIANA
So what's this got to do with-
Her mouth opens and her eyes widen. She looks at Joe in shock.
JOE
(placing his finger
over his mouth)
Shhhh. We'll talk about it later.
ADRIANA
Are you a bank-
Joe places a KISS on her lips as the STEWARDESS stops at them.
STEWARDESS
Can I get you- I'm sorry.
JOE
(pulling away)
No, no, that's fine. I'll take
a beer and she'll have a vodka
tonic.
The Stewardess prepares their drinks. Joe gives Adriana the "EYE."
STEWARDESS
(reaching to Joe)
Here you go...
(reaching to Adriana)
...and for you.
JOE
Thank you.
(giving her a twenty)
The Stewardess looks pleasantly surprised and happily accepts the tip.
The Stewardess pushes the cart to her next stop.
JOE
(looking Adriana
directly in the eyes)
I did not rob that bank. I will
tell you everything when we are
completely alone. Deal?
ADRIANA
Deal.
Joe sits back and puts on his headphones. Adriana continues to read
her magazine.
EXT./INT. BEACH RESORT - DAY
Adriana and Joe gather their belongings from a cab. Joe tips the
driver and he pulls away.
There are many Hawaiians working the resort and it is filled with
tourists. A young BELL HOP meets them and places their bags on a cart.
He wheels the cart into the hotel and up to the front desk. Behind the
desk is a heavy, very tan male Hawaiian CLERK.
CLERK
Aloha. Welcome to Hawaii. Do you
have reservations?
JOE
(confidently)
Yes we do.
CLERK
May I have the name?
Adriana smiles and looks away.
Joe stares at the Clerk for a moment.
The Clerk waits with an anticipated smile.
CLERK
Sir?
JOE
(clearing his throat)
Uh, it's...Astaschitz.
CLERK
Excuse me?
Adriana chuckles.
Joe pulls out his licence and hands it to the Clerk.
JOE
Astaschitz.
CLERK
Okay, let's see, Mr. Az-ta-shits,
it says here this is your
first visit. We'll certainly
do our best to make your stay
memorable.
(handing back the
licence)
Will this be on your credit card?
JOE
No, we'll be paying cash.
CLERK
Okay, that will be two thousand,
seven hundred and fifty dollars.
Joe pulls a large wad of cash from his pocket and counts the correct
amount.
The Bell Hop looks at the Clerk with wide eyes and smiles.
The Clerk prints up a receipt and hands it to Joe along with a card
key.
CLERK
Room forty two, twenty three. Thank
you very much and enjoy your stay.
Joe nods and turns to the Bell Hop.
JOE
We'll follow you.
The Bell Hop starts towards the elevator and Adriana and Joe follow.
INT. ROOM - LATER
Joe moves about the room and puts his belongings in their proper
places. Adriana sits motionless on the edge of the bed listening to
Joe.
JOE
So I was standing on the curb
when this car came flying around
the corner and hit the pole
right in front of me.
(walking into the
bathroom)
That's when the case came
busting through the window and
landing at my feet.
(out from the bathroom)
So I took the case home and opened
it.
(kneeling down)
And, VOILA, it was full of cash.
Joe stands up and walks over to the window and the great view of the
ocean.
ADRIANA
So, your going to keep it?
JOE
(turning)
Absolutely. It's not really mine
so I have to save some.
Adriana stands and goes to Joe and brushes his hair back.
ADRIANA
What do you mean?
JOE
Well, it's Norms.
ADRIANA
What do you mean?
Joe slides open the balcony door and walks out.
JOE
I didn't know it until the next
day, but Norm was driving the car.
He's the one in the hospital.
Adriana looks at Joe for a moment.
ADRIANA
So how much money was in the
case?
JOE
(raised eye brows)
A lot.
ADRIANA
Like, a lot, a lot?
JOE
(slowly)
Yeah, a lot, a lot. I'll just
Wait to see what happens to Norm
and I'll have most of the money
for him if he gets out.
The two stare as the sun sets over the ocean.
EXT. BEACH - DAY
Adriana and Joe walk along the ocean. In the distance there is a large
black man with TWO WOMEN in bikinis, one on each arm. One of them is
BLACK and the other is WHITE. He wears a hat, unbuttoned Hawaiian
shirt, panama shorts and dark sunglasses. As they get closer, Joe
notices that it is Terrence from the hospital. At that same moment he
notices Joe.
TERRENCE
Well goddamn! If it aint my old
buddy Joe.
JOE
T?
TERRENCE
That's right!
Terrence leans in and hugs Joe tightly.
TERRENCE
Boy Joe, I haven't seen you since
we WORKED together at that
hospital.
Terrence leans into Joe's ear.
TERRENCE
(whispering)
I think you follow me, right?
JOE
Boy T, it HAS been a while.
(gathering himself)
Oh T, this is my girlfriend,
Adriana.
ADRIANA
Hello.
TERRENCE
Well, she sure is a pretty one...
(looking at his
companions)
...isn't she girls?
The two girls smile.
TERRENCE
These two beautiful ladies are...
(to the black girl)
Stacey and...
(to the white girl)
Mandy.
The group all exchange hand shakes and share an uncomfortable moment of
silence.
TERRENCE
JOE, you remember that time
when we were working and that crazy
bald bastard tried killing you for
getting his name wrong?
Terrence lets out a bellowing laugh.
TERRENCE
That big son of a bitch damn near
brought the house down.
(scratching his chin
looking up to the sky)
What was his name anyway?
JOE
Ah, I think it was Barney or
Bert or something.
Joe glances at Adriana for a moment.
TERRENCE
NOPE! It was Bernie. It was
definitely Bernie.
JOE
Yeah, that's right, Bernie.
TERRENCE
Damn Joe, if anyone should
remember I think it should be
you.
The two engage in a laugh as the girls appear to be left out.
TERRENCE
Well Joe, I must be going. We
have some things to do...
(winking)
...if you know what I mean.
ADRIANA
It was nice meeting you all.
The two girls smile.
JOE
Well T, I guess we'll be seeing
you around.
TERRENCE
You bet Joe. I'm sure you'll be
seeing us.
Joe and Terrence shake hands and Terrence winks at Joe. As the three
begin to walk away Terrence stops and runs back to Joe; he pulls him
aside.
TERRENCE
Looks like you got yourself
some of that SWEET meat huh, Joe?
Terrence laughs, pats Joe on the ass and runs back over to the girls.
ADRIANA
I never knew you worked at a
hospital.
JOE
That was a long time ago.
Adriana places her arm around Joe's waist as the two walk along the
beach.
EXT. BEACH - LATER
Joe and Adriana lounge in their chairs with umbrella drinks. Adriana
reads a magazine as Joe digs his toes into the sand. There are a few
people scattered along the beach and some boats on the water. Joe
nears the end of his drink and begins to SLURP through his straw.
JOE
(stands)
Ready for another one?
ADRIANA
(peaks out over
her glasses)
Sure.
Adriana lifts her empty glass to Joe and looks back to the magazine.
Joe takes the two glasses and walks towards the bar. He exchanges
harmless glances with other women along the way and arrives at the bar.
The bar is covered with palm leaves and made mostly out of bamboo.
There are a few people seated in the shade from the roof and a very
attractive female BARTENDER.
Joe approaches her and sets the empty glasses down on the bar. He
holds up two fingers and she acknowledges his request. Joe scans the
area. There are many couples along the beautiful beach.
The Bartender begins to GRIND the ice and prepare the drinks.
He turns back to the bar. Joe reaches for some peanuts and tosses them
into his mouth. In mid-toss he is SHOCKED to see Amy and David in
conversation on the other side of the bar. He drops the remainder of
the peanuts on the sand as Amy makes eye contact with him.
Her eyes grow large with shock.
David turns, his face scowls.
Joe swallows the peanuts.
Starring at the couple , for what seems to be an eternity, Joe slowly
looks beyond them. In the distance he sees beautiful Adriana. She
chases her large brimmed sun hat down the beach and her sarong blows in
the ocean wind.
The Bartender sets the drinks down in front of Joe.
Joe focuses back on the angry couple.
He reaches for the drinks. Joe Lifts one to his mouth, and sucks
through the straw. He releases the straw and gives the couple a WINK
and a NOD. He raises his glass to them and walks away with a surprised
smile.
Amy and David look puzzled.
Joe arrives back to Adriana.
ADRIANA
(fixes her hat)
This wind is crazy.
Joe hands Adriana her drink, pulls her in with his free hand and gives
her a small kiss.
They raise their glasses to each other and they CLINK.
JOE
I'll say.
The wind blows Adriana's hat off once again and the two chase it down
the beach.
We see the happy couple run down the beach. They, as well as the
terrain, become smaller as they get further away. The people become
specs and the beach now harnesses the SPARKLING ocean.
INT. CLANCY's - DAY
The door swings open as the mailman delivers a pile of envelopes with a
postcard on top. The picture on the card is a continuum of the scene
at the beach. The mail slides along the bar and the post card stops at
Clancy's hand. He picks it up and turns it over. It reads:
"Having a great time. Wish you
were here. Adriana and Joe."
Del is playing for a packed house.
Clancy tacks the postcard up behind the bar.
People dance, drink and have a great time.
The door closes.
THE END.
Return to SimplyScripts.com