Author Information
Purgatory
PURGATORY
by
DUCK JOHNSON
123/456-7890
FADE IN:
EXT. DEVIL'S BLUFF/TRAIL - DAY
Quiet, clear and sunny, a still road lined with pine trees
winds its way up a mountain as far as the eye can see. A
sudden faint sound of motorcycle engines off in the distance
quickly becomes three Yamaha R1 motorcycles racing by in
calculated form, escalating onward up the mountain now off
in the distance.
The three riders, decked out in full racing leathers, are
obviously experienced as they continue to zoom through the
hairpin turns and double apex curves with such style and
precision.
EXT. DEVIL'S BLUFF/CRASH SITE - CONTINUOUS
While the first two of the three riders can be seen zooming
past the crash site and onward up the mountain, the third
biker reduces speed to assess the situation more closely and
is quickly able to surmise a small crowd of parked bikers
anxiously awaiting a rescue team's retrieval of a biker who
had crashed through a barrier and over a steep ravine.
The third biker then increases speed and proceeds racing up
the mountain toward the other two in his party, who by this
time are nowhere in sight.
EXT. DEVIL'S BLUFF/SUMMIT LODGE
JOE WILLARD finally approaches on his motorcycle and cuts
his engine as he rolls up next to DOC and ALEX who are
perched out front, helmets and gloves removed, sipping
coffee and smoking cigars, among various other small groups
of relaxed bikers and a scattered swarm of parked
motorcycles, mostly expensive racing bikes, in a dirt lot.
JOE WILLARD comes to a complete stop, kicks down his
kickstand and removes his helmet and gloves, still sitting
on his bike. DOC, slurping the last few drops of his
espresso, looks over at JOE WILLARD with a self amused
smile.
DOC
What took you so long?
DOC smirks at ALEX for approval. JOE WILLARD is nonchalant
and mundane, as he normally is.
JOE WILLARD
I slowed down to assess the
situation back there. It looked
like someone went over the cliff.
Alex casually puffs his cigar.
ALEX
Yeah, the lodge confirmed it over
the radio just as we got here.
Another DOA.
2.
DOC
That's three just this week. If all
these wanna be biker club members
keep coming up here and getting
killed, they're going to close off
the trail! Just watch.
ALEX cracks half a smile.
ALEX
Why do you think I keep a stack of
business cards on the counter in
there? To a Personal Injury
Attorney, the sound of sirens is a
sweet lullaby.
ALEX now smiling fully. All three men are still very casual
and relaxed.
DOC
It's bad enough that they've
started posting highway patrol on
the trail.
ALEX chuckles slightly.
ALEX
Yeah, like that does any good.
JOE WILLARD gets off his bike and walks toward the lodge
entrance.
JOE WILLARD
I'm gonna grab a hot chocolate.
DOC sports his self amused smile. JOE WILLARD is out of
range.
DOC
With marshmallows?
DOC smirks at ALEX for approval
INT.DEVIL'S BLUFF/SUMMIT LODGE
JOE WILLARD approaches the cute young cashier at the counter
and receives a big smile of familiarity.
MANDY
Hey Joe!
JOE WILLARD
Hey Mandy.
The two commence light flirtatious banter.
3.
EXT. DEVIL'S BLUFF/SUMMIT LODGE
DOC and ALEX are still posted outside in random discussion,
their cigars already about three quarters smoked.
ALEX
Oh. Is that that NASA thing you
were talking about?
DOC now a bit more seriously engaged.
DOC
Yeah, it was pretty amazing. They
already knew all my background and
even referenced papers I had
written more than two decades ago,
papers that I didn't even remember.
ALEX responds with an approving look of pleasant surprise.
DOC (CONT'D)
Anyway, they've selected thirty of
us from around the country and are
narrowing it down to just ten, five
of which will spend some time
working on a top secret stem cell
project at the international space
station.
ALEX
No shit!
DOC
Yeah, I won't plan on quitting my
day job just yet.
ALEX
Which is...
ALEX pauses for a guess.
ALEX (CONT'D)
...a nuclear physicist? A
radiologist? Professional
motorcycle racer? I lost track.
What is your day job again?
The two chuckle at each other. DOC issues a smile of both
pride and embarrassment.
DOC
I'm an overachiever. What can I
say?
The topic of discussion has ended and both men's focus
gravitates curiously toward the Summit Lodge entrance.
ALEX
Hey, where is that guy anyway?
4.
DOC and ALEX share a sudden grin and agree
simultaneously..(Dual Dialogue)
DOC
Mandy!
ALEX
Mandy!
INT.DEVIL'S BLUFF/SUMMIT LODGE
DOC and ALEX enter the lodge and walk over to JOE WILLARD
who is still flirting away with MANDY over a now empty cup
of hot chocolate.
ALEX
Hey Joe! It's time to pop the
kickstand brotha!
ALEX's eyes gesture toward the bulge in JOE WILLARD's pants.
ALEX (CONT'D)
You know what I mean?
DOC sporting his self amused smile again.
DOC
Did you ask for marshmallows?
Everyone's bearing some level of a smile.
MANDY
He did!
EXT. DEVIL'S BLUFF/SUMMIT LODGE
The three men casually walk to their bikes and proceed to
apply their helmets and gloves while mounting their
motorcycles. They start their bikes and briefly rev their
engines.
ALEX yells over the roaring engines.
ALEX
If we get split up, meet back at my
house.
DOC and JOE WILLARD gesture a thumbs up of approval. DOC
heads out first, followed in sync by ALEX and then JOE.
EXT. DEVIL'S BLUFF/TRAIL
The three are flooring it down the mountain in perfect
harmony when suddenly they spot a couple highway patrol
motorcycles in hot pursuit of them, but still trailing some
distance behind.
Knowing the CHP is coming, DOC slows down at a fork in the
road, prompting the others to do the same. DOC gestures for
5.
ALEX to go one way and he will go the other. ALEX nods in
agreement and the two proceed on their corresponding paths,
leaving JOE WILLARD to decide for himself. JOE WILLARD
quickly starts down the same path as ALEX, who is nearly out
of sight and clearly has eluded the threat of imminent
capture.
JOE WILLARD, with both cops now tailing just a couple
hundred yards behind him, races down the mountain, his knee
scraping the ground as he hugs each turn, further distancing
himself from the cops. Suddenly, while speeding through a
rocky canyon, a chance rock slide occurs, putting a bowling
ball sized boulder directly in JOE WILLARD's path. He
quickly turns and loses control and he and the bike are
thrown to the ground, directly in the path of an oncoming
truck. His last vision is of the twenty-two inch big rig
tire as it crushes his head and kills him.
CUT TO:
INT. JOE WILLARD'S MANSION SUITE/BEDROOM - DAY
JOE WILLARD awakens abruptly from a startling dream. He
pauses for a moment of reflection and proceeds to roll out
of bed.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S MANSION SUITE/BATHROOM - MOMENTS LATER
JOE WILLARD fixes his tie in the mirror. A used towel is
piled onto the sink in front of him and the mirror's
reflection reveals a hint of steam left on the shower door
behind him.
INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/LOBBY - DAY
JOE WILLARD enters the cigar club sporting a laptop bag on
his shoulder. As JOE WILLARD makes his way from the store
lobby area to the "Members Only" room, he makes brief eye
contact with JACK, the store owner, who is deeply engaged in
pitching the sale of an expensive lighter to a prospective
customer.
JOE WILLARD
Morning, Jack!
JACK now juggling between a sales pitch and a greeting.
JACK
You'll never get an uneven burn
with the triple flame.
JOE WILLARD is just about disappeared into the "Members
Only" room.
JACK (CONT'D)
Hi Joe!
6.
INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM
The room is currently only occupied by ALEX who is sitting
in his trademark corner chair, on the phone, with a scotch
on the rocks in hand and a lit cigar in the ashtray beside
him.
ALEX is finishing up his phone call.
ALEX
Roxanne. Roxan.. Calm down, I
understand. Tell him we'll advance
him five thousand tomorrow and
we'll have the full settlement
check by the end of the month.
ALEX nods his head in response to Roxanne's comments. JOE
WILLARD sets his laptop bag on the seat next to ALEX and
then proceeds to use a key to retrieve a cigar from a locker
bearing his name.
ALEX (CONT'D)
Thanks, Roxanne. Bye.
Alex hangs up the phone, picks up his cigar, sips his scotch
and places the glass on the table. JOE WILLARD, just
finishing lighting his own cigar, proceeds to the chair next
to ALEX, removes his laptop from its bag, sets it on the
table next to his chair and takes his seat.
JOE WILLARD
Macallan at ten in the morning.
Nice.
Both men smirking.
ALEX
Breakfast of champions! You want
some?
JOE WILLARD
No thanks.
Both men puff their cigars. Both men shift their attention
to the muted newscast on the television across the room.
ALEX grabs a nearby remote, aims it at the television, and
the television volume increases.
ALEX
Looks like Carter's keeping busy.
The volume now fully audible. The newscaster reviews a
snippet of CARTER MURDOCK commenting on his famous rapper
client.
CARTER MURDOCK
My client has been fully
cooperative with law enforcement
(MORE)
7.
CARTER MURDOCK (cont'd)
and we're confident that once the
facts of the case are revealed, he
will be fully exonerated.
The newscaster comments further on the video clip of the
famous rapper's lawyer as CARTER MURDOCK himself enters the
"Member's Only" room.
NEWSCASTER
Defense Lawyer Carter Murdoch went
on to detail some of the evidence
in the case, including actual video
footage of the moment in question.
ALEX, still sitting in his chair, greets CARTER MURDOCK with
an excited, welcoming smile and gestures CARTER MURDOCK's
attention to the tv. CARTER MURDOCK shifts his attention
toward the television.
ALEX
Hey!! Speak of the devil. I was
just telling Joe 'let's see what
bullshit is on the news today?' and
look what's on!
CARTER MURDOCK shifts his attention away from the television
and proceeds with a round of handshakes for the two
gentleman. Everyone is sporting a welcoming smile.
CARTER MURDOCK
Gentlemen.
CARTER MURDOCK proceeds to his locker for a cigar.
JOE WILLARD
You rollin' a Black & Mild today,
Carter? I got five on it.
Everyone chuckles. CARTER MURDOCK retrieves a Cohiba Behike
fifty-six, closes his locker and proceeds to sit next to
ALEX.
CARTER MURDOCK
No, but if you go fifty on it, I'll
give you a Cohiba.
CARTER MURDOCK shoots a quick wink over to JOE WILLARD and
the two exchange a friendly smile.
CARTER MURDOCK (CONT'D)
How are things, Joe? Your company
still letting you work from the...
CARTER MURDOCK gestures air quotes.
CARTER MURDOCK (CONT'D)
..."home office"?
8.
Everyone cracks a smile. ALEX breaks his attention from the
newscast and gestures the bottle of scotch toward CARTER
MURDOCK. Still smiling, ALEX interrupts JOE WILLARD's chance
to respond and dishes out a slow line of his own.
ALEX
And what a lovely office it is.
A light smirk on JOE WILLARD's face suddenly becomes an
embarrassed smile. ALEX continues with CARTER MURDOCK.
ALEX
So how do you think the case is
gonna pan out??
CARTER MURDOCK declines the scotch with a head shake. He's
still sporting a friendly smile as he utters some sarcasm.
CARTER MURDOCK
Now, you know I can't divulge any
information about the case.
CARTER MURDOCK gestures cutting his throat with his hand,
incidentally just as DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL enters the room.
CARTER MURDOCK
By the way, Alex. I've got a
personal injury case for you. We'll
talk about it later.
ALEX nods his head in the affirmative while simultaneously
sipping his scotch. The gang shifts their focus to DETECTIVE
JEFF RANDALL who is sporting a nice suit, with his police
badge clipped to his belt and a gun hanging in a sling
inside his coat. DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL proceeds with a
round of handshakes, starting with JOE WILLARD.
JOE WILLARD, still half engaged with everyone, shifts his
laptop from the table to his lap and quietly focuses on the
screen, as if to briefly get some work done.
DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL
Fellas.
Already having shaken JOE WILLARD and ALEX's hands,
DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL prepares to extend for a handshake
with CARTER MURDOCK, when CARTER MURDOCK raises his hands as
if he's under arrest.
CARTER MURDOCK
Hands up! Don't Shoot!
Everyone, including DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL, chuckles. CARTER
AND DETECTIVE RANDALL proceed to shake hands. Then DETECTIVE
RANDALL proceeds to his locker, relinquishes his gun and
retrieves a cigar. As DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL takes the empty
seat next to CARTER MURDOCK, JOE WILLARD receives an
incoming call on his cell phone. While the phone is still
ringing, he places his cigar in the ashtray beside him, and
9.
with phone and open laptop in hands, he stands up and rushes
out of the "Members Only" room and into a slightly more
secluded space near the lobby where he can take his phone
call uninterrupted.
INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/SECLUDED LOBBY AREA
JOE WILLARD is now in JACK's view, but at a distance. JACK
is diligently focused on adding lighter fluid to lighters in
a display case.
JOE WILLARD answers his phone.
JOE WILLARD
Joe speaking.
JOE WILLARD is focused like a laser on his laptop and is
completely glued to what is obviously a work call.
From JOE WILLARD's unfocused perspective LARRY WASHINGTON
can be seen entering the cigar shop and JACK immediately
shifts away from the lighter display case to offer LARRY
WASHINGTON a warm greeting and handshake. The whole
interaction from JOE WILLARD's unfocused perspective is a
blurry sight with muffled sounds of chatter.
JOE WILLARD is still on his call and glued to his computer.
Still on the phone, he speaks quickly and confidently.
JOE WILLARD
Well, here's what I need you to
find out. How effectively will the
expansion into mid-to-upper range
price points resulting from the
acquisition of Solcor Enterprises
offset the negative effects of
competition? Also, will operational
efficiencies continue to result in
the same level of cost savings each
year, or will it taper off? And if
so, by how much? These are things
we're going to have to know before
we can move forward.
JACK and LARRY WASHINGTON still chatting at a distance.
Their attention seems to be directed nonchalantly at JOE
WILLARD, as LARRY WASHINGTON seems to be inquiring about JOE
WILLARD and JACK seems to be responding very affirmatively,
as if to offer an assessment of JOE WILLARD's good
character.
LARRY WASHINGTON begins to walk over to JOE WILLARD. JOE
WILLARD is finishing up his call and is sporting a half
cracked smile of approval toward the discussion.
JOE WILLARD
Yeah, tell me something I don't
know. Listen, Kenny, I think we're
(MORE)
10.
JOE WILLARD (cont'd)
on the right track. Keep me posted
of any developments on your end.
Ok. Thanks buddy.
JOE WILLARD ends his call and has a chance to look up at
LARRY WASHINGTON just as LARRY WASHINGTON approaches.
JOE WILLARD
Morning, Larry.
LARRY WASHINGTON generally doesn't show much excitement and
this case is no different.
LARRY WASHINGTON
Hey Kid. How ya doing?
JOE WILLARD
Ahh, you know, just slaving away
over here.
Both men crack a hint of a smile.
LARRY WASHINGTON
Listen. Jack had the nicest things
to say about you and Alex also
suggested I get you involved in a
little business opportunity I'm
planning.
JOE WILLARD sports a look of intrigue.
LARRY WASHINGTON (CONT'D)
Are you free to stop by my house
tonight at seven? I'm having a
meeting with the whole group and I
want you there.
JOE WILLARD shows little hesitation.
JOE WILLARD
Yeah, that sounds great. Thanks for
the opportunity. I'll be there.
LARRY WASHINGTON
Good. Talk to Alex for my address
and maybe you two can carpool
together or something.
JOE WILLARD gives a nod in the affirmative, as LARRY
WASHINGTON is already starting to head toward the "Members
Only" room, where he eventually disappears into.
JOE WILLARD
Ok.
JOE WILLARD focuses back in on his laptop
11.
EXT. LARRY WASHINGTON'S MANSION - NIGHT
JOE WILLARD, alone in his car, checks an address on a piece
of paper before slowly pulling into the driveway of LARRY
WASHINGTON's formidable mansion, where several other cars
are already parked.
JOE WILLARD, now standing at the front door of the house,
rings the doorbell and is greeted by a housekeeper.
INT. LARRY WASHINGTON'S MANSION
The housekeeper escorts JOE WILLARD through an empty house
toward a room that emits an audible friendly commotion.
INT. LARRY WASHINGTON'S MANSION/MEETING ROOM
JOE WILLARD enters the designated meeting room, which
contains a large table with chairs around it.
Already seated in the room, laughing and socializing
together, are ALEX, JERRY CRANSTEIN, MATTHEW WASHINGTON, and
JOSH ROTHMAN. A couple of folders stuffed with paperwork
reside on the table in front of where MATTHEW WASHINGTON and
JOSH ROTHMAN are sitting.
As soon as he enters, JOE WILLARD receives a collective
greeting from ALEX and JERRY CRANSTEIN. (Dual Dialogue)
ALEX
Heyy!
JERRY CRANSTEIN
Heyy!
As ALEX has managed to find a seat in the furthest corner of
the room, JERRY CRANSTEIN and the others are closer in
proximity to where JOE WILLARD has entered the room.
JERRY CRANSTEIN stands up to give JOE WILLARD a proper
greeting. Both crack smiles and shake hands.
JOE WILLARD
Hey, Jerry! Haven't seen you around
the club lately. Did you decide to
come out of retirement?
JERRY CRANSTEIN
Yeah, I've been slaving away on a
beach in Maui for the last several
weeks.
JERRY CRANSTEIN gestures having back pain and looks over at
ALEX.
JERRY CRANSTEIN (CONT'D)
I might need Alex to represent me
in a workman's comp case pretty
(MORE)
12.
JERRY CRANSTEIN (CONT'D) (cont'd)
soon. What do you think, Alex? You
think we can milk a couple mil out
of the system for my pain and
suffering?
Everyone chuckles. JERRY CRANSTEIN returns to his seat and
JOE WILLARD shifts over to the next couple individuals who
he has never met.
He begins to introduce himself, first shaking hands with
MATT WASHINGTON.
JOE WILLARD
Hi. I'm Joe.
MATTHEW WASHINGTON
Matt.
JOE WILLARD shakes hands with JOSH ROTHMAN.
JOSH ROTHMAN
Josh.
LARRY WASHINGTON enters the room and everyone quickly
settles down. JOE WILLARD extends a quick handshake to LARRY
WASHINGTON and then shuffles around the table toward ALEX,
where he greets ALEX with a pat on the back while taking the
seat next to him. LARRY WASHINGTON still standing where he
first entered, which happens to be at the head of the table,
looks over at JOE WILLARD and the group.
LARRY WASHINGTON
Good. I see you've met my son and
Josh.
LARRY WASHINGTON then gestures toward JERRY CRANSTEIN AND
ALEX.
LARRY WASHINGTON (CONT'D)
These two degenerates you already
know.
The group chuckles.
LARRY WASHINGTON (CONT'D)
Are you hungry? Does anyone need
anything before we get started?
JERRY CRANSTEIN
Please tell me we're opening a
massage parlor. I could use a happy
ending.
Chuckling.
LARRY WASHINGTON
That's why I invited Alex. I heard
he has soft hands.
13.
More chuckling. LARRY WASHINGTON gets a little more serious
and is now seated in his chair at the head of the table.
LARRY WASHINGTON (CONT'D)
So, let's get right down to it
then, shall we? I brought you all
here to see if maybe we can make
some money. Who couldn't use a
little more money, right?
Everyone nods in agreement.
LARRY WASHINGTON (CONT'D)
Matthew and his good friend Josh
both work for a company that sells
Porn DVDs and Male Enhancement
Pills mostly through mail
advertising to old men.
LARRY WASHINGTON gestures toward the folders on the table.
LARRY WASHINGTON (CONT'D)
Matthew, show them some of the
advertisements your company sends
out, and the list of DVDs.
Both MATTHEW WASHINGTON and JOSH ROTHMAN proceed to
distribute the contents of their respective folders around
the table for the others to peruse while LARRY WASHINGTON
continues talking. It's clear that the advertisement
contents being passed around contain pictures of scantily
clad women.
LARRY WASHINGTON (CONT'D)
Matthew and Josh answer the
telephones and process orders and
they have a good perspective on the
entire operation.
MATTHEW WASHINGTON and JOSH ROTHMAN both direct nods in the
affirmative towards the other gentleman in the room.
LARRY WASHINGTON (CONT'D)
Apparently, the guy that runs it
has a bit of a meth problem and has
started to let the company fall by
the wayside, which is a shame
because the guy is making millions
every year.
LARRY WASHINGTON quickly affirms his claim.
LARRY WASHINGTON (CONT'D)
I've seen it with my own eyes. I
went down there with Matthew on a
Saturday and they've got stacks and
stacks of orders laying around
still waiting to be processed! If
(MORE)
14.
LARRY WASHINGTON (CONT'D) (cont'd)
we can leverage these boys'
knowledge to re-build this company
from scratch, I'm ready to invest a
million dollars of my own money.
Everyone's interest perks up a little.
JERRY CRANSTEIN
I've got that old movie studio
warehouse we could use for offices
and distribution.
ALEX
This doesn't seem like a huge
headache of an operation. I've got
to do a little research on my end,
but I think I can handle all of our
Legal needs, but who's going to put
everything together and get it off
the ground?
ALEX directs an obvious look toward JOE WILLARD. The rest of
the guys naturally focus their attention on JOE WILLARD as
well, almost hinting at his turn to make a contribution.
Still looking over some of the materials and contemplating
many variables in his head, JOE WILLARD musters some
thoughts out loud that become more direct as they develop.
JOE WILLARD
Well, I doubt I'd be able to quit
my bank job anytime soon, but I
could leverage some free time to do
some benchmarking, analytics and
projections. If everything looks
good on paper, I'd be willing to
get it off the ground and ensure
efficient day to day operations.
Everyone sports a casual look of surprised satisfaction.
LARRY WASHINGTON easily draws everyones attention.
LARRY WASHINGTON
Good. That settles it. Jerry and I
will work on plans for us all to go
check out his warehouse later this
week. Joe, why don't you set up
some time with Matthew and Josh to
learn the ins and outs of their
current operation and get this idea
on paper. Let's see the numbers.
JOE WILLARD and the boys nod affirmatively. LARRY WASHINGTON
pauses quickly to conjure up an action item for ALEX.
15.
LARRY WASHINGTON (CONT'D)
And Alex, now that all of the
material has been distributed, I
think we're ready for our happy
endings.
Big smiles all around.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S MANSION SUITE/FOYER - DAY
The intercom on the wall near the front door sounds the tone
of an arriving guest and waits patiently for instruction
from anyone in the vicinity.
JOE WILLARD appears within moments. His face and a finger
pressed to the intercom.
JOE WILLARD
Yeah?
MATTHEW WASHINGTON's voice is heard through the intercom
speaker.
MATTHEW WASHINGTON (VOICEOVER)
Hey. We're here.
JOE WILLARD
Okay, I'll buzz you in. Drive all
the way up, I'll be out front.
EXT. JOE WILLARD'S MANSION SUITE/DRIVEWAY
JOE WILLARD stands out front in a spacious driveway with
immaculate landscaping. MATTHEW WASHINGTON's Range Rover
pulls into the driveway.
MATTHEW WASHINGTON and JOSH ROTHMAN exit the vehicle as JOE
WILLARD walks over to greet them with a hand shake.
JOE WILLARD
Did you guys find the place
alright?
MATTHEW WASHINGTON is mildly stunned by JOE WILLARD's lavish
living arrangement.
MATTHEW WASHINGTON
We took a few detours coming up the
driveway, but eventually found our
way. Nice place. Is this your
parents' house?
JOE WILLARD
No. I rent a room from a couple,
but they're hardly ever here, so it
works out kind of nicely. Come on
in.
16.
JOE WILLARD and guests walk toward the front door. JOSH
ROTHMAN gives MATTHEW WASHINGTON a little nudge and a look
suggesting to carry out a preconceived plan. MATTHEW
WASHINGTON quickly takes his cue. The three are stepping
through the front doorway.
MATTHEW WASHINGTON
By any chance, are you into smoking
weed or do you mind if we smoke?
We're a little more productive when
we're high. Josh and I are high at
work all the time.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S MANSION SUITE/FOYER
MATTHEW WASHINGTON and JOSH ROTHMAN exchange smiles and
continue to follow JOE WILLARD through the house. JOE
WILLARD is indifferent to the conversation.
JOE WILLARD
Sure. I don't mind.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S MANSION SUITE/MEETING ROOM
JOE WILLARD enters first, followed by the two others. A
small round table sits in the center of the room, perfect
for a small meeting.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
We'll meet in here.
JOE WILLARD gestures for the guys to take seats and they
proceed to do so. MATTHEW WASHINGTON retrieves a small case
from his pocket, opens it and removes a pipe and a small
amount of weed. JOSH ROTHMAN also digs into his pocket and
places a container of weed on the table. The two commence
the process of preparing and ultimately smoking weed.
JOE WILLARD gets right down to business.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
So, how many employees are working
there and what does each one do?
JOSH ROTHMAN looks to MATTHEW WASHINGTON, as if implying he
should field that question. MATTHEW WASHINGTON just finishes
taking a hit from his pipe.
MATTHEW WASHINGTON
Let's see, there's Brenda.
JOSH ROTHMAN and MATTHEW WASHINGTON exchange a look of
shared sentiment toward Brenda.
JOSH ROTHMAN
Ugghh, Brenda!
JOE WILLARD inquires further.
17.
JOE WILLARD
What does Brenda do?
MATTHEW WASHINGTON
Brenda is like Mike's right hand
man. That's the owner, Mike. She's
in his office for like two hours
every day and then she basically
just walks the floors and bosses
people around.
JOE WILLARD
But is she responsible for
anything? What is she doing in
Mike's office?
JOSH ROTHMAN
Who knows? My money is on blowjobs,
but Matt thinks Mike has some kind
of strap-on fetish.
JOSH ROTHMAN and MATT WASHINGTON exchange a typical stoner
laugh. JOE WILLARD fakes a smile and proceeds to leverage
the two for any possible value.
JOE WILLARD
So what do you guys do exactly?
MATTHEW WASHINGTON is now completely in a daze. His speech
has slowed a bit. His eyes are half shut.
MATTHEW WASHINGTON
We basically take calls from horny
old men asking where their dick
pills are or complaining about
being scammed by our DVD promotion.
JOE WILLARD
Scammed?
MATTHEW WASHINGTON
Yeah, it's a total scam. He sends
an advertisement like this one...
MATTHEW WASHINGTON hands JOE WILLARD one of the
advertisements from the same folder that was passed around
at LARRY WASHINGTON's house.
MATTHEW WASHINGTON (CONT'D)
...offering all sixty of the titles
that you see on the page for a low
price of thirty-nine ninety-nine.
The customer thinks they're about
to get sixty full length DVDs in
the mail, when in reality, they're
only getting sixty 'two minute'
porn clips on a total of only four
discs.
18.
JOSH ROTHMAN
So then the customer calls and
complains and we tell them they can
send the product back for a refund,
but most never do since they have
to pay their own shipping costs.
Even if they do send them back, we
still made a small profit on their
original shipping and handling fee,
since the four dvds cost less than
a few dollars to make and ship.
JOE WILLARD now feeling a little more accomplished with the
two, just as they fully run out of steam.
Almost without pause from his last comment, JOSH ROTHMAN
looks at MATTHEW WASHINGTON and continues.
JOSH ROTHMAN
Hey, you wanna order some grub hub?
MONTAGE - VARIOUS
A) INT. JOE WILLARD'S MANSION SUITE/MEETING ROOM - MOMENTS
LATER - MATTHEW WASHINGTON and JOSH ROTHMAN are laughing and
eating pizza. A more serious JOE WILLARD is scrutinizing
various materials from the folders provided by MATT & JOSH
while inputting calculations into a calculator and writing
notes in his notebook.
B) INT. JOE WILLARD'S MANSION SUITE/MEETING ROOM - LATER ON
- MATT and JOSH are playing table football. JOE WILLARD
looks at the ingredients on the back of a pill bottle and
starts to perform a google search on "Vitamin B3 Niacin
Wholesale".
C) INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/SECLUDED LOBBY AREA -
DAY - JOE WILLARD sits alone talking on the phone. His
laptop is open on the small table in front of him and a
small stack of porn DVDs are sitting on the table beside his
laptop. JOE WILLARD has his pen to a notepad and his phone
to his hear.
JOE WILLARD
Peruvian Maca?
D) INT. JERRY CRANSTEIN'S OLD MOVIE STUDIO/LOBBY - NIGHT -
The entire gang, LARRY WASHINGTON, JERRY CRANSTEIN, ALEX,
MATTHEW WASHINGTON, JOSH ROTHMAN and JOE WILLARD, walk
through the empty lobby area, which clearly needs some minor
renovations. Everyone is poking their heads into random
adjacent empty offices as they pass through and inspect the
place.
E) INT. JERRY CRANSTEIN'S OLD MOVIE STUDIO/WAREHOUSE -
CONTINUOUS - The gang has now shifted into an empty
warehouse area where they are inspecting rows of shelving, a
conveyor belt, and a shipping ramp. The large garage door is
raised, exposing a glimpse of the shipping area exterior.
19.
MATTHEW WASHINGTON's Range Rover is parked on the shipping
ramp, half exposed to the exterior of the warehouse.
END OF MONTAGE
INT. JOE WILLARD'S MANSION SUITE/MEETING ROOM - DAY
JOE WILLARD sits casually alone with his feet kicked up on
the table. His open laptop sits next to his feet. All
additional space on the table is covered by file folders,
stacks of paper, scattered papers, porn advertisements, and
a few small stacks of porn DVDs.
JOE WILLARD dials a number that he appears to be reading
from the back of one of the DVD cases. He brings the phone
to his ear.
JOE WILLARD
Hi. Is this Rialto Entertainment,
the Adult DVD Manufacturer?
JOE WILLARD pauses briefly for a response from the other end
of the phone conversation.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Well, you'll have to forgive me,
I'm a Business Analyst of sorts who
has been brought into a venture
which includes sales of porn DVDs.
I've gathered that based on our
initial investment capital, and
from what I've been able to
ascertain about wholesale porn DVD
prices, we're potentially looking
to start with a ten thousand dollar
investment in the first month with
projections for a one hundred
twenty thousand dollar inventory by
the end of the first year. I've
noticed that your company is one of
the leaders in the industry, which
leads me to assume you can handle
those kinds of volumes.
With the phone still pressed to his ear, JOE WILLARD
inspects one of the Porn DVDs more closely while listening
to the person on the other line respond to his inquiry.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Yeah, I don't see why not. If you
could send me something to look at
in the meantime, something
describing your inventory and
prices, that'll give me something
to work with. Otherwise, I guess
I'll just see you Tuesday.
JOE WILLARD starts scribbling on his notepad.
20.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
...Chats..worth.. Got it. Who
should I ask for?
Brief pause before JOE WILLARD confirms the name he is
jotting down.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Leon..
JOE WILLARD still writing in his notebook. The person on the
other end cuts him off.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
..the owner. Okay, Tuesday at four
thirty. Sounds good. Thanks for
your time. Take care. Bye.
JOE WILLARD hangs up the phone and proceeds to stare at the
back of the porn DVD case. His half cracked smile and brief
head shake seems to beg for the answer to how he got himself
into all of this.
EXT. RIALTO ENTERTAINMENT BUILDING - DAY
JOE WILLARD approaches just outside the double glass door
entrance to the Rialto Entertainment building. He briefly
stops to inspect the suite number listed above the door and
compares it to his notes. He then proceeds to enter the
building.
INT. RIALTO ENTERTAINMENT BUILDING/LOBBY
Nothing about the lobby area looks sleazy or x-rated. The
waiting area resembles a lobby in a doctor's office or car
dealership. Upon further inspection, as he slowly walks to
the front desk, he notices a handful of framed Porn DVD
covers along the wall, each bearing some type of award or
recognition inscribed on small placards underneath them.
He makes his way to the front desk where he finally notices
a hot, and vaguely slutty looking, receptionist. They make
eye contact as he approaches. She smiles. He looks around
for any other sign of life, which there is none, then shifts
his focus back on her.
AMBER
Hi. Can I help you?
JOE WILLARD shows mild signs of uncertainty.
JOE WILLARD
Hi. I think so. I'm looking for
Leon? We planned to meet today to
discuss some business?
AMBER's face lights up just a touch.
21.
AMBER
Certainly. What's your name?
JOE WILLARD
Joe Willard.
AMBER picks up the phone in front of her, presses a button,
pauses briefly, and proceeds to talk to someone on the other
line.
AMBER
A Mr. Joe Willard is here to see
Leon.
Brief pause.
AMBER (CONT'D)
Thank you.
AMBER hangs up the phone and smiles back at JOE WILLARD.
AMBER (CONT'D)
Leon will be right out. Can I get
you anything while you wait?
AMBER sounds almost seductive, leaving JOE WILLARD guessing
at what his options might be.
AMBER (CONT'D)
Coffee? Water? Beer?
JOE WILLARD musters a smile of appreciation.
JOE WILLARD
No, thank you.
JOE WILLARD proceeds to take a seat in a nearby chair and
LEON enters from behind a closed door before JOE WILLARD can
even sit down.
LEON approaches JOE WILLARD quickly, prompting him back to a
full stance. LEON is smiling and anxious to greet JOE
WILLARD with a hand shake.
LEON
You must be Joe!
JOE WILLARD nods and smiles while shaking LEON's hand.
JOE WILLARD
Yes. Leon! Nice to meet you.
Still stationed in the lobby area.
LEON
So, you're looking to start a
pretty significant inventory of
porn DVDs? Are you looking for all
(MORE)
22.
LEON (cont'd)
genres or something specific?
Hardcore, Lesbian, Anal, Asian.
JOE WILLARD, slightly uncomfortable with commencing
discussions in the lobby, in front of Amber, gives a slow
nod.
JOE WILLARD
Yes, we're interested in quite a
few genres. I'd be curious to look
over some pricing and production
options...
LEON is still sporting the same smile he had on when he
first walked in. He interrupts JOE WILLARD with a pitch that
is persuasive on the outside, but rather hollow on the
inside.
LEON
I think what you need to realize is
we have everything you need. You
just tell us anything you need...
LEON slowly shifts his focus toward AMBER who is glued to
doodling in a notebook, cleavage fully alert. Without pause
he continues.
... and we'll provide it.
LEON looks back up at JOE WILLARD who also shifts his eyes
from AMBER's cleavage.
LEON
I mean 'anything'.
JOE WILLARD quickly starts to ramble for the sake of
avoiding awkward silence.
JOE WILLARD
Well...
LEON quickly cuts him off and gestures toward AMBER.
LEON
Amber, will you and Kylie please
take care of Joe...
AMBER is quick to pick up the phone and press a button which
triggers KYLIE's presence almost instantly. Without pause,
LEON continues.
LEON
...and show him what we mean by
'anything'?
JOE WILLARD reluctantly interjects.
JOE WILLARD
That's very...
23.
LEON cuts him off again. LEON is now half serious, but still
half empty.
LEON
Listen, Joe. My time for us today
had to be cut short unexpectedly,
due to a personal matter that needs
my attention. I'm willing to do
whatever it takes to earn your
business and in this industry the
resources at our disposal come in
quite beautiful shapes and sizes.
AMBER, having walked over from her desk, now stands next to
JOE WILLARD and LEON. KYLIE is also now just steps behind
AMBER. LEON gestures toward the girls. JOE WILLARD also
shifts his focus to the girls without objection. LEON
continues without pause.
LEON (CONT'D)
So please, do me the honor and be
my guest and hang out and enjoy
yourself for a while and if I don't
make it back in time, we'll pick up
at your first convenience.
The girls now nearly fully embracing JOE WILLARD from each
side and any bit of reluctance on JOE WILLARD's part now
gone.
JOE WILLARD, slightly hypnotized, smiling at the girls, his
body tingling from the girls' gentle contact.
JOE WILLARD
You drive a hard bargain, Leon.
INT. RIALTO ENTERTAINMENT BUILDING/BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
JOE WILLARD and the two girls have retreated to a large
section of office space converted into a mid-century modern
themed bedroom. The room is decked out with a plush
oversized bed and pillows, various other comfortable seating
options, as well as comfortable floor space. A threesome has
commenced on the bed.
MONTAGE
- JOE WILLARD sits upright on the center of the bed. His
pants are still on. His shirt is off. AMBER is still fully
clothed in her unbuttoned blouse, skirt and leggings, and
she's straddling JOE WILLARD on the bed and passionately
making out with him. AMBER's breasts are exploding out of
her bra, which has busted out of her blouse and is ready to
come off. KYLIE is straddling the bed behind JOE WILLARD's
back. She's still wearing the same slutty dress with no bra
that she first showed up in. KYLIE is kissing JOE WILLARD's
neck and rubbing his shoulders and back, pressing her body
up against his back.
24.
- The three still making love on the bed. JOE WILLARD now
completely naked, lying flat on his back. AMBER is now
completely topless, but is still wearing her skirt and is
riding JOE WILLARD. KYLIE is now fully nude and is
straddling JOE WILLARD's legs behind AMBER. Her hands gently
holding AMBER's waist and kissing her neck.
- Love making on the bed still in progress. KYLIE is on her
back and JOE WILLARD is fucking her passionately in the
missionary position. KYLIE's legs are wrapped around JOE
WILLARD, her eyes are closed, her mouth hangs open in
ecstasy. AMBER is resting naked next to the two.
- All three still on the bed. The girls are now wrapped in
each other's arms, kissing passionately, moving sexually,
The girls' lovemaking is a blur from JOE WILLARD's
perspective, who is now lying on his back next to them,
staring off to the ceiling in a state of content
contemplation.
BACK TO SCENE
The girls now completely passed out on the bed, completely
naked, lightly embracing each other. JOE WILLARD stands at
the side of the bed, looking at the girls. His pants are on,
his shirt hangs from his hand. He seems to be on the verge
of departure.
INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM
JOE WILLARD is sitting next to LARRY WASHINGTON in a remote
corner of the room. A handful of guys (CARTER MURDOCK,
DETECTIVE RANDALL, JERRY CRANSTEIN), including ALEX in his
trademark chair, socialize happily amongst themselves across
the room, cognizant of LARRY and JOE's need for privacy.
Both men speaking quietly. JOE WILLARD presents a printout
of an excel spreadsheet to LARRY WASHINGTON.
JOE WILLARD
That's what killing his business.
It's not a drug problem. It's a
porn problem. Sure, he might make a
buck or two off a scam that
ultimately hinders his client base,
but in the meantime he's having to
manage a diverse inventory of
content which most people today are
content with streaming online. Even
regular DVD sales have been
burdened by the emergence of online
streaming.
LARRY WASHINGTON listens intently. JOE WILLARD shifts the
focus to another printed spreadsheet.
25.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
I've created a formula which
projects our profits based on how
we structure the business. The
bottom line is, for this operation
to be lucrative, and I mean
lucrative...
JOE WILLARD quickly shifts to another paper which shows a
chart with rising profits.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
... we need to eliminate the DVD
component and focus our investment
strictly on the Male Enhancement
pills.
LARRY WASHINGTON responds almost without hesitation.
LARRY WASHINGTON
Let's do it.
MONTAGE - VARIOUS
A) INT. JERRY CRANSTEIN'S OLD MOVIE STUDIO/LOBBY - JOE
WILLARD is holding a clipboard and he and ALEX are standing
off in a corner inspecting a small crew of workers rolling
out new carpet
B) INT. PILL PROCESSING PLANT - Hundreds of pill bottles
speeding through a manufacturing conveyor
C) INT. JERRY CRANSTEIN'S OLD MOVIE STUDIO/WAREHOUSE - DAY -
A container truck is backed into the warehouse and a small
crew in hard hats use a fork lift to transport the boxes
from the truck to the storage shelves.
D) INT. JERRY CRANSTEIN'S OLD MOVIE STUDIO/LOBBY - An empty
lobby quickly transforms with the sequential appearance of
new paint and furnishings.
E) INT. JERRY CRANSTEIN'S OLD MOVIE STUDIO/MATT'S OFFICE -
An empty office quickly transforms with the sequential
appearance of new paint and furnishings including two desks
and chairs with JOSH ROTHMAN and MATT WASHINGTON sitting at
each desk, talking with customers on their wireless headsets
and effortlessly keying in more sales.
F) INT. JERRY CRANSTEIN'S OLD MOVIE STUDIO/JOE WILLARD'S
OFFICE - A big empty office space quickly transforms with
the sequential appearance of new paint, furnishings, and JOE
WILLARD sitting at his desk conducting a call for his
banking job.
An employee for the enhancement pill company walks in and
gestures for JOE WILLARD to sign a purchase order. While
deep in his telephone discussion, JOE WILLARD proceeds to
sign the paperwork.
26.
JOE WILLARD
If their gross capital expenditures
come down by six percent annually
over the next five years...
The pill company employee leaves JOE WILLARD's office.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
... then we can re-examine
potential lending opportunities.
END OF MONTAGE
INT. JERRY CRANSTEIN'S OLD MOVIE STUDIO/JOE WILLARD'S OFFICE
- NIGHT
JOE WILLARD is finished for the evening. There's no sign of
anyone else still at the office. He straps his laptop bag
over his shoulder and hangs his sport coat over one arm. He
walks toward the door and flips off the light switch.
EXT. JERRY CRANSTEIN'S OLD MOVIE STUDIO
JOE WILLARD walks to his car. He first secures his laptop in
the trunk. He then hangs his sport coat on a hanger in the
back seat, enters the driver seat, shuts the door, starts
the engine, backs out of his parking spot and exits the
parking lot.
As he exits the parking lot, unbeknownst to him, a car
parked in the shadows proceeds to follow him.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S CAR - NIGHT - TRAVELING
Leaving the vicinity of JERRY CRANSTEIN'S OLD MOVIE STUDIO
takes JOE WILLARD down several dark streets. He lowers his
window and flips through the dials on the radio until he
lands on a familiar classic rock song, Machine Gun by Jimi
Hendrix.
Suddenly, he notices some type of mechanical trouble with
his car and hears a clinking noise. He quickly pulls over to
the side of the dark road he's on.
EXT. JOE WILLARD'S CAR - NIGHT
JOE WILLARD is still unaware of the car tailing him, which
also pulls over a few car lengths back.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S CAR - NIGHT
JOE WILLARD puts his car in park and shuts off the engine.
The same song continues to play on the radio. He rummages
through his glove compartment until he retrieves a small
flashlight and just as he shifts his body toward exiting the
vehicle, he's startled by someone standing directly outside
his open driver side window.
27.
JOE WILLARD looks up and makes eye contact with LEON the
Porn DVD producer, but is so thoroughly confused about his
current situation at this point that he can't muster up any
words. LEON interrupts the very brief silence.
LEON
This is a tough business, kid. One
way or another you get fucked.
Without any time to react, JOE WILLARD's perspective is that
of the swift oncoming strike from LEON's billy club right
between the eyes.
CUT TO:
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/BEDROOM - DAY
JOE WILLARD awakens suddenly to a ringing cell phone. Still
laying in bed in his upscale Las Vegas strip condo, he
reaches over and picks up his cell phone from his night
stand. He answers the phone with a groggy voice.
JOE WILLARD
Hello?
INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM - SAME
TIME
ALEX is alone in the room, sitting in his chair, smoking a
cigar, talking on the phone.
ALEX
Willard! You sound like you've been
snorting lines off of strippers all
night.
ALEX smiles
ALEX (CONT'D)
I love it!
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/KITCHEN - SAME TIME
Still a tad sleepy, JOE WILLARD holds his cell phone to his
ear with one hand while he walks to the refrigerator and
opens it with the other hand.
The refrigerator is nearly empty. JOE WILLARD replies
casually.
JOE WILLARD
How you'd let something like that
go down without you, I have no
idea.
JOE WILLARD, rummaging through the fridge, resorts to
retrieving a nearly empty carton of orange juice after
shaking two milk cartons reveals them to be empty.
28.
ALEX (VOICEOVER)
Ahh...
INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM - SAME
TIM
ALEX still in his chair, smiling.
ALEX (CONT'D)
... this is true. So how is it over
there? Have you...
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM - SAME
TIME
JOE WILLARD now casually lays out across the couch, staring
at the ceiling with the phone still pressed to his ear. Half
a glass of orange juice sits on the coffee table next to
him.
ALEX (VOICEOVER)
... gambled all your money away
yet?
JOE WILLARD
No complaints so far. I never spent
a lot of time in Vegas. It's only a
three hour drive from home, the
cost of living compared to there is
pretty phenomenal, and with no
state income tax, the taxes I'd be
paying over there pay my rent and
then some over here.
INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM - SAME
TIME
ALEX still in his chair on the phone. A lit cigar rests in
the ashtray beside him. He's gripping a glass of scotch on
the rocks and staring down at it while slowly swirling it in
small circles.
CARTER MURDOCK enters the room and notices ALEX is on the
phone. CARTER MURDOCK proceeds with the usual routine of
retrieving a cigar from his locker. ALEX has yet to
acknowledge him.
ALEX, still staring at his scotch, responds slowly, as if
deep in several other thoughts.
ALEX
Sin City!
ALEX snaps out of his trance.
ALEX (CONT'D)
Not that strippers and whores ever
get boring.
29.
ALEX smiles at CARTER MURDOCK, knowing he got his attention
with that comment. CARTER MURDOCK, still standing at his
open locker, smiles back at ALEX.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM - SAME
TIME
JOE WILLARD is now standing at the window, looking out at
the expansive Las Vegas strip from a high rise vantage
point. His phone still pressed to his ear.
JOE WILLARD
Yeah, it's funny, they even
approach me at the grocery store.
They're everywhere.
JOE WILLARD breaks his gaze from the window and walks over
to a desk with a computer. Standing over the desk, still
speaking without pause, he starts to move the computer mouse
and inputs a few keystrokes on the keyboard.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Anyway, I'm gonna head out there
soon, maybe for a couple weeks. You
guys should make your way out here
sometime too. I'm sure we can think
of something to get into.
JOE WILLARD is now more seriously focused in on his computer
screen. Without giving ALEX a chance to respond, JOE WILLARD
abruptly changes topic.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Hey, I just got an email I've got
to respond to, let me call you
later.
JOE WILLARD hangs up the phone, and still in his pajamas, he
sits down in the chair at the desk and starts plugging away
on his computer.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
(LATER)
JOE WILLARD is still in his pajamas, still sitting at his
desk, on the phone again, intensely productive, shifting
through some paperwork.
JOE WILLARD
I like their inventory services.
They achieved record sales and
earnings over the last couple
years. Their two-fold strategy
looks solid. They're growing
existing accounts with large chain
stores. They're also expanding
customer base through new account
penetration in geographic
(MORE)
30.
JOE WILLARD (cont'd)
strongholds and new channels like
apparel, department and grocery
stores.
JOE WILLARD takes a brief pause for a response from the
other end, then continues.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Now, we do have to be cognizant of
the pricing pressures caused by
open bidding on existing accounts,
as well as competitor response to
new opportunities. We're also
looking at higher minimum wage and
a tighter labor market, which is
bound to increase labor costs over
the next several quarters. I think
if we can get a little more
confident with those factors, we'll
be ready to make a deal.
Brief pause.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Thanks, Tom.
JOE WILLARD hangs up the phone and exhales a big sigh of
relief after a grueling day of work. Still sitting at his
desk, he leans back in his chair, picks up a remote control
from the desk and turns on the small flat screen tv on the
wall in front of him. An announcer on TV can be heard
introducing the second half of a Vegas Night Court episode.
JOE WILLARD kicks his feet up and starts watching the TV for
a few seconds. Then, while the show is still on, JOE WILLARD
shifts his focus to his computer. The sound from the show
fades into the background.
He keys in a Google search for "Las Vegas Night Court" and
among the search results is a banner advertisement off to
the right of the screen. The advertisement reveals a picture
of an attractive girl whose facial expression reflects being
down on her luck. The advertisement heading reads "Find
someone: Las Vegas Arrest Database"
JOE WILLARD pauses briefly and then curiously clicks the
banner link. A new web page loads onto the screen. The title
of the page says "Las Vegas Arrest Database". There are a
couple of categories displayed below the page header, the
first being "Most Recent Arrests" and the second being
"Search".
JOE WILLARD starts perusing the list of most recent arrests.
The first three records are:
"RICHARD SINELLA, Ethnicity: White, Gender: Male, Age: 42,
Charge: Breaking and entering"
31.
"PETER VESHEO, Ethnicity: White, Gender: Male, Age: 34,
Charge: Possession of marijuana"
"BEATRICE POWERS, Ethnicity: Black, Gender: Female, Age 37,
Charge: Solicitation of prostitution."
JOE WILLARD notices that each charge listed on the website
is a clickable link. He clicks the link for "Solicitation of
prostitution", which displays a new web page listing all
records for prostitution charges.
He is now scanning the list of prostitution records. The
list of records are:
"RHONDA SAMUELSON, Ethnicity: Black, Gender: Female, Age 28,
Charge: Solicitation of prostitution."
"CANDICE SHEPPERD, Ethnicity: White, Gender: Female, Age 54,
Charge: Solicitation of prostitution."
Now a little more intrigued and with a hint of excitement in
his tone, he mouths to himself some of the records on
display. He spots the name Candice Shepperd.
JOE WILLARD
Candice Shepperd.
He scans over to her age.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Fifty-four! Ughh
He continues down the page until he sees a record that
catches his attention.
"DAWN MEYER, Ethnicity: White, Gender: Female, Age: 18,
Charge: Solicitation of prostitution"
He says her name with interest and cracks a smile.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Dawn Meyer!
He opens a new webpage tab and keys in a Google search for
"Dawn Meyer Las Vegas"
Among the search results, the first is a link to Dawn
Meyer's arrest record. The link is a different color than
the other results, indicating that the page has already been
visited.
The second of ten results displayed on the page is a
facebook profile for Dawn Meyer in Las Vegas. JOE WILLARD
clicks the link and the computer proceeds to display Dawn
Meyer's facebook page. Her profile picture reveals a young,
cute face. He clicks her profile picture which leads him to
scanning through other various pictures from her page. All
pictures of her reflect the life of a typical innocent, yet
mildly rebellious, eighteen year old girl. Nothing in the
32.
pictures reflects that of a prostitute.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM -
MOMENTS LATER
JOE WILLARD is typing a message to someone on the computer.
In the dialogue box displayed on his computer screen, DAWN
MEYER's profile picture can be seen next to the "Message
Recipient" field; however, even though JOE WILLARD is
clearly typing the message, the profile picture seen next to
the "Message Sender" field is clearly not of JOE WILLARD,
but instead of a sexy girl in lingerie. The display name
next to the picture says "Bonnie".
The message being typed, as JOE WILLARD repeats it aloud:
JOE WILLARD
Hey, Dawn! If you're looking for
work, I have a drama free
opportunity that is off the radar.
Let me know. -Bonnie
JOE WILLARD briefly analyzes the message and proceeds with
clicking the "Send" button.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
(LATER)
JOE WILLARD is asleep on the couch. The lights are off. The
TV is on. His cell phone rests on the coffee table directly
beside him. After a few moments, his cell phone issues two
succinct vibrations causing him to wake up.
He reaches for his cell phone almost reluctantly and checks
the screen. Displayed on the cell phone screen is an
envelope icon with the words "incoming message". He clicks
an OK button to display the message. The message is from
DAWN MEYER.
The message reads, "Umm, yeah I'm interested. Do I know
you?"
JOE WILLARD immediately begins typing a return message on
his cell phone.
JOE WILLARD (VOICEOVER)
Hi. I found your name on an arrest
database and saw that you were a
working girl.
He pauses to think of what to say next.
JOE WILLARD (VOICEOVER CONT'D)
I'm out of town for a while and am
looking for some resources to keep
my clients happy while I'm gone.
Another pause and stare up to the ceiling before typing
further. He types slowly to make sure the message will work.
33.
JOE WILLARD (VOICEOVER CONT'D)
I have a young professional with a
need. He's cute and easy going. He
usually pays...
He corrects his last word.
...gives one-fifty, but if things
work out well with this guy, I have
other clients who go for more.
He clicks send, cracks a small smile and then slightly rolls
his eyes and shakes his head as if to imply the question,
"What am I doing?"
Still laying on the couch, he places his phone back on the
table and picks up the remote and starts flipping through
the channels, as if unsure of what else to do. Moments after
channel surfing, his cell phone vibrates again. He checks
it.
DAWN MEYER has quickly replied. JOE WILLARD slowly scans the
message. Halfway through reading it, his excitement grows.
JOE WILLARD (VOICEOVER CONT'D)
Sure. Have him call me at
seven-oh-two-five-five-five-seven-t
wo-three-four. I go by Sarah.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM -
MOMENTS LATER
JOE WILLARD is sitting back at his desk with his phone to
his ear. A few lights have come on in the living room. He
hears the phone ringing for the number he just dialed.
Someone answers.
DAWN MEYER (VOICEOVER)
Hello?
JOE WILLARD sits up straight in his chair and speaks to the
person on the other end.
JOE WILLARD
Hi. Is this Sarah? I'm Joe. Bonnie
told me to give you a call?
JOE WILLARD anxiously listens for an affirmative response.
He stands up from his chair and starts pacing slowly around
the living room. He continues his phone call.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Tonight would actually work well
for me if it's not too short
notice. Also, I can pick you up if
necessary.
JOE WILLARD sports a half smile and nods his head to what
seems to be good news on the other end.
34.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Great. Hold on, let me get
something to write it down.
JOE WILLARD quickly scavenges a pen and paper from his desk
and slowly repeats part of what he's writing.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
...Sum-mer-wind-cir-cle. Got it.
So, is thirty minutes too soon? I
don't think I'm too far and I can
head out in the next few minutes.
Still on the phone, JOE WILLARD walks to his bedroom.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/BEDROOM
Entering the bedroom at a faster than normal pace, JOE
WILLARD heads straight for the walk-in closet. The phone is
pressed to his ear.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/BEDROOM CLOSET
JOE WILLARD quickly shifts through some hanging shirts and
selects one before finishing his phone call.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Alright. See you soon. Bye.
He hangs up the phone and exits the closet swiftly with
shirt in hand.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S CAR - NIGHT - TRAVELING
JOE WILLARD advances slowly down a dark residential street,
scanning addresses until he pulls over in front of a house
and starts to dial his cell phone. He puts the phone to his
ear.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S CAR - NIGHT
JOE WILLARD
Hey. I'm out front.
Pause.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Okay, bye.
JOE WILLARD hangs up the phone and waits in his parked car.
He looks in his review mirror and then quickly scans all his
windows for anything out of the ordinary. He fixates himself
on the advancing lights of a car that's passing him down the
street in the opposite direction. As he is fixated on the
passing car, his passenger door opens and DAWN MEYER's
smiling face peeks in.
DAWN MEYER is dressed casually, like any other cute eighteen
year old girl. Nothing about her looks like a prostitute.
35.
Her attitude is surprisingly welcoming all around and she
doesn't show any signs of worry or skepticism.
DAWN MEYER
Hey! Joe?
The welcoming look on JOE WILLARD's face prompts DAWN MEYER
to complete her entrance into the vehicle.
JOE WILLARD
Sarah! Hi. Nice to meet you.
Dawn shuts the passenger door, now fully inside the vehicle,
and the two exchange welcoming hugs.
DAWN MEYER
Yeah! Nice to meet you too! Bonnie
had good things to say about you.
JOE WILLARD now paying attention for any oncoming traffic as
he is about to pull out from his street parking spot.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S CAR - NIGHT - TRAVELING - SAME TIME
JOE WILLARD begins to drive, his eyes focused on the road.
DAWN MEYER's eyes and smile are focused on JOE WILLARD.
JOE WILLARD
Yeah, same here. She's really
great.
Quickly changing the subject to avoid a lengthy exchange of
lies about Bonnie.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
So, is my place okay?
DAWN MEYER
Yeah, definitely. I'm not in the
mood to be out on the town tonight.
I was thinking we'd just hang out
casually and go from there.
JOE WILLARD
Yeah. Totally.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
JOE WILLARD and DAWN MEYER enter the living room through the
front door. JOE WILLARD gestures toward the couch.
JOE WILLARD
Have a seat. Make yourself
comfortable.
DAWN MEYER follows cue toward the couch while JOE WILLARD
continues toward the kitchen.
36.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Can I get you anything? Something
to drink?
JOE WILLARD quickly disappears into the kitchen. DAWN MEYER
now sitting on the couch giving the living room a quick look
over. Her focus seems to get stuck on the window revealing
the flickering lights of the Vegas strip down below.
DAWN MEYER
No thanks. I'm fine.
JOE WILLARD returns toward the couch.
DAWN MEYER (CONT'D)
Your place is really nice. I love
your view of the strip.
JOE WILLARD sits down next to DAWN MEYER.
JOE WILLARD
Thanks. Yeah, it's a pretty
convenient location, and there's
always something out there worth
looking at.
The two smile at each other.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Speaking of something worth looking
at...
JOE WILLARD conducts a quick flirtatious scan of DAWN MEYER
from head to toe. DAWN MEYER smiles more. He continues
playfully.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
...Bonnie didn't tell me how
attractive you were. I can hardly
contain myself.
DAWN MEYER smiles even more, almost to the point of
blushing. JOE WILLARD begins to stare at DAWN MEYER's perky
breasts as if he can see through her thin top. He scoots
just a little closer to her.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
So, I'm never good with protocol. I
guess there's a little business for
us to discuss?
Both JOE WILLARD and DAWN MEYER casually enter negotiations,
prompting JOE WILLARD back to eye contact.
DAWN MEYER
So, I know you're Bonnie's client,
but how can I be sure you're not a
cop?
37.
JOE WILLARD thinks for a second.
JOE WILLARD
Hmm, I don't know.
He reverts back to staring at her breasts.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
I mean, I don't think a cop is
allowed to put his hand down a
girl's shirt, is he?
JOE WILLARD leans in slowly, but doesn't wait for permission
before he moves his hand toward DAWN MEYER's breasts. DAWN
MEYER smiles and JOE WILLARD proceeds with a hand down her
shirt.
DAWN MEYER
Hmm, no. I don't think they are.
JOE WILLARD now fully caressing her breasts under her shirt.
DAWN MEYER very receptive to his cause, but also quick to
settle one last matter of business.
DAWN MEYER (CONT'D)
So, Bonnie said something about one
fifty?
JOE WILLARD rightfully detaches himself from DAWN MEYER and
withdraws his wallet.
JOE WILLARD
Yes, that's right.
He takes out a few bills and places them on the table. With
the money still sitting there, the two commence making out.
JOE WILLARD now fully caresses DAWN MEYER and lays her back
on the couch.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/BEDROOM
MONTAGE
- JOE WILLARD lays DAWN MEYER down on the bed while
continuing to kiss her passionately. She's now only wearing
her bra and panties and he is down to just his boxer shorts.
- Still in bed, JOE WILLARD, now fully naked, is thrusting
himself in between DAWN MEYER's legs which are fully wrapped
around him. She is also fully naked and her facial
expressions are orgasmic.
- Still in bed, JOE WILLARD lies on his back while naked
DAWN MEYER rides him passionately. He reaches up and
caresses her small perky breasts. She is fully committed to
her pleasurable ride, almost as if he is not even there.
- Still in bed, JOE WILLARD and DAWN MEYER are fully
embraced in each other's arms kissing passionately and
38.
rolling from side to side together on the bed.
BACK TO SCENE
JOE WILLARD and DAWN MEYER are both still in bed. JOE
WILLARD is casually relaxed on his back, staring at the
ceiling. DAWN MEYER, still naked, lying comfortably next to
him, her hand on his chest.
JOE WILLARD
I'm really glad we did this.
DAWN MEYER
Me too.
JOE WILLARD
Do you do this pretty often?
DAWN MEYER
Honestly? This was my first time.
JOE WILLARD shows a look of surprise.
DAWN MEYER (CONT'D)
Not sex. I mean escorting.
JOE WILLARD still a tad confused. He remarks slowly to avoid
catching himself in a lie.
JOE WILLARD
But didn't Bonnie...
DAWN MEYER interrupts.
DAWN MEYER
Bonnie and I don't know each other
very well. She found me because I
guess I do have a police record for
prostitution, but I've never
successfully prostituted.
JOE WILLARD slightly less confused, but still curious.
JOE WILLARD
So...
Before he could try to make sense of the details, DAWN MEYER
continues.
DAWN MEYER
My friend Justina actually does
this for a living. Someone
responded to one of her ads a few
months ago and told her to bring a
friend. I decided to tag along and
as soon as we got to the hotel they
busted us. It was a sting. They had
actually been busting girls all
(MORE)
39.
DAWN MEYER (cont'd)
night. We were all in a holding
cell together.
JOE WILLARD, somewhat at a loss for words, tries to sound
sympathetic.
JOE WILLARD
Wow, that must have been scary.
DAWN MEYER
It wasn't so bad. All the girls
were actually pretty nice and we
actually stayed in touch with a few
of them.
JOE WILLARD smiles.
DAWN MEYER (CONT'D)
Sex is not a big deal to me, so if
I can use it and make money, I'm
totally fine with that. But I'll
never go to the strip again. It's
just too risky. That's why when I
saw this opportunity from Bonnie,
it just seemed convenient and worth
trying. It was actually much better
than I expected.
JOE WILLARD is still somewhat at a loss for words, but
musters up something to say.
JOE WILLARD
Well, I'm guessing it's probably
more trouble than it's worth. I
can't imagine most situations being
as convenient as this one. I'm sure
Bonnie's been doing this a while
and probably has a carefully
selected clientèle.
DAWN MEYER
Yeah, but now that she's out of
town, she needs someone to take
care of her clients. I'm sure as
long as you tell her everything
here went well, she'll start giving
me more work.
JOE WILLARD not really sure where to take the conversation,
resorts to playful banter.
JOE WILLARD
And what if I want to keep you all
to myself.
She smiles. He puts his arm around her and they start
kissing some more.
40.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S CAR - NIGHT
DAWN MEYER is in the passenger seat. JOE WILLARD looks at
her, somewhat speechless about recent events. The two smile
and hug and she exits the vehicle.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
The room is only dimly lit by a desk lamp. JOE WILLARD is
sitting at his desk staring at his computer screen. The
computer screen displays another list of prostitution
records and one specific record catches his eye.
"NATALIE SINCLAIR, Ethnicity: White, Gender: Female, Age:
26"
MONTAGE - VARIOUS
A) INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM -
MOMENTS LATER - The computer screen displays a developing
email, similar to the initial message sent to DAWN MEYER, as
JOE WILLARD is typing from his fake "Bonnie" account. The
"recipient" profile picture is that of NATALIE SINCLAIR.
B) INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/BEDROOM -
NATALIE SINCLAIR is completely naked and is seen from behind
riding JOE WILLARD in his bed. Her hair is long and red and
her ass is peeking out from the covers as she bounces slowly
up and down on him.
C) INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM -
The computer screen displays the Friends List of JOE
WILLARD's fake "Bonnie" profile, which includes profile
pictures of four hot girls, including DAWN MEYER and NATALIE
SINCLAIR.
D) INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/BEDROOM - JOE
WILLARD is thrusting a beautiful unknown brunette from
behind, doggystyle. She is completely naked and her facial
expressions are orgasmic.
E) INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM -
The computer screen displays the Friends List of JOE
WILLARD's fake "Bonnie" profile, which has now increased to
nine beautiful girls, including DAWN MEYER, NATALIE
SINCLAIR, and the beautiful brunette he recently banged
doggystyle.
F) INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM -
The computer screen displays the Friends LIst of JOE
WILLARD'S fake "Bonnie" profile, which has increased to
fourteen girls.
END OF MONTAGE
INT. LAS VEGAS CASINO POKER ROOM - DAY
Multiple poker tables fill the room, with mostly men (some
women) seated around each table. Everyone's playing poker,
41.
including JOE WILLARD at one of the tables.
JOE WILLARD retrieves his phone from his pocket, looks at
the display to see who is calling, folds his cards and
stands up from the poker table, a healthy stack of poker
chips saving his place as he steps away to answer his phone,
mildly excited.
JOE WILLARD
Alex! Long time no talk. I take it
there's a steady flow of death and
dismemberment keeping you busy?
INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM - SAME
TIME
A happy as usual ALEX is posted in his trademark chair
talking on his phone.
ALEX
From your lips to God's ears,
brotha. I'm glad to hear you're
still alive. I figured you'd have
made it back for a visit by now.
INT. LAS VEGAS CASINO POKER ROOM - DAY - SAME TIME
JOE WILLARD standing a few feet from his empty seat at the
poker table, ignoring the game while on his phone.
JOE WILLARD
Yeah, me too. You know how it is.
With work, volunteering, and church
services, who can find the time?
INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM - SAME
TIME
ALEX, still on the phone, is pouring himself a glass of
scotch. An unlit cigar sits in the ashtray on the table next
him, along with a fancy lighter and cigar cutter.
ALEX
I feel ya. I'm just about to start
a little holy communion myself.
ALEX finishes pouring and places the half empty bottle of
scotch on the table next to all the cigar paraphernalia.
ALEX (CONT'D)
So, a bunch of us started kicking
around the idea of heading out
there next weekend and I wanted to
check your status. You gonna be in
town?
INT. LAS VEGAS CASINO POKER ROOM - DAY - SAME TIME
JOE WILLARD still on the phone.
42.
JOE WILLARD
Yeah, sure, I'll be around. If this
poker game doesn't go my way, I
might be on a street corner begging
for change, but I'll be here.
INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM - SAME
TIME
ALEX chuckles into the phone and responds.
ALEX
Good. Well, don't go blowing your
wad before we get there.
ALEX now sporting a mischievous grin.
ALEX (CONT'D)
Oh, speaking of blowing your wad,
what are the odds of maybe lining
up a couple girls for the
festivities?
INT. LAS VEGAS CASINO POKER ROOM - DAY - SAME TIME
JOE WILLARD sports a smile of assurance, but withholds the
details on the phone with ALEX.
JOE WILLARD
Hmm, probably a little better than
the odds of me winning this poker
game.
JOE WILLARD smiling cleverly.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Let me see what I can do. There's a
handful of single ladies at the
church who would love to meet a few
younger gentlemen like yourselves.
INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM - SAME
TIME
ALEX plays along in his response to JOE WILLARD.
ALEX
Oooh. Where's a confessional when
you need one?
MONTAGE - VARIOUS
A) INT. VENETIAN PENTHOUSE SUITE - NIGHT - ALEX, DETECTIVE
RANDALL, CARTER MURDOCK and JOE WILLARD are in the living
room of a penthouse suite. ALEX is sitting on the couch
puffing a cigar with a beautiful half naked prosttute
snuggled up tight next to him. CARTER MURDOCK is dancing
very close and very sexually with another prostitute wearing
a sexy dress that hugs her thin body. JOE WILLARD sits on a
43.
comfy lounge chair with a beautiful, skimpy clothed
prostitute straddling him and kissing him passionately. Yet
another prostitute, this one fully naked, leads DETECTIVE
RANDALL by the hand off to a bedroom in the background until
they are seen ultimately disappearing behind closed double
doors.
B) INT. VENETIAN PENTHOUsE SUITE - NIGHT - The prostitute
that was dancing with CARTER MURDOCK is already halfway into
entering another bedroom and she's pulling CARTER MURDOCK's
tie to follow her in. He does. The double doors close.
C) INT. THE GRAND HAVAN CIGAR LOUNGE/MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM -
DAY - ALEX posted in his trademark chair, cigar in mouth,
talking on the phone.
ALEX
Hey. Can you set a few of my
clients up with the same royal
treatment? I'll make sure you're
well taken care of.
D) INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM -
NIGHT - JOE WILLARD is typing on his computer. A sexy
female's profile picture is seen as the intended recipient
of his message, Bonnie as the sender.
A closer look at the display screen reveals the remainder of
what he types: "Please continue to give my fee to Joe and
he'll make sure it gets to me. Thanks. -Bonne" JOE WILLARD
hits the enter key with a swift satisfied stroke and a half
smile on his face.
E) INT. JOE WILLARD'S CAR - NIGHT - JOE WILLARD is
temporarily pulled over directly in front of a Las Vegas
casino, surrounded by the standard congestion of people and
traffic seen on a typical Vegas night. He looks in his
driver side mirror, the internal hazard light indicator is
flickering, and four obvious prostitutes (skimpy dresses,
small purses, etc.), including DAWN MEYER, are seen exiting
the passenger side of his vehicle as he's dropping them off.
F) EXT. SEEDY MOTEL PARKING LOT - NIGHT - A row of about ten
to fifteen motel rooms lines the parking lot, with some cars
parked in the designated spaces directly outside the rooms.
G) INT. JOE WILLARD'S CAR - NIGHT - SAME TIME - A skimpy
prostitute has just finished entering JOE WILLARD'S
passenger seat and shuts the door. JOE WILLARD is in the
driver seat looking down at a wad of money that the
prostitute begins to count to herself. She finishes counting
out a portion and hands it to JOE WILLARD.
END OF MONTAGE
INT. JOE WILLARD'S LAS VEGAS STRIP CONDO/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
JOE WILLARD is lying on his back with his phone pressed to
his ear. Two girls are in bed with him. Both girls are
44.
wearing sexy lingerie. One girl is snuggled next to JOE
WILLARD, seductively pecking his neck, ear and cheek.. The
other girl is straddling JOE WILLARD, riding him
pleasurably, her hands on his chest. JOE WILLARD is issuing
instructions on the phone.
JOE WILLARD
Make sure he doesn't hand you the
money directly and no negotiating.
Fifteen hundred flat upon arrival
or you walk.
Suddenly, the bedroom door is kicked open, quickly prompting
the attention of JOE WILLARD and the girls. None of them
show much reaction before a man bursts into the room with a
wooden baseball bat in hand, staring directly at the girl on
top of JOE WILLARD. THE PIMP commands an aggressive query.
THE PIMP
You think you can jump ship without
gettin' taxed?
THE PIMP backhands her before she can say or do anything.
She falls backwards, off of JOE WILLARD. JOE WILLARD has
little time to react before his perspective reveals the
swift strike of a baseball bat directly into his face.
CUT TO:
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - DAY
SUPERIMPOSE: "New York, NY"
JOE WILLARD paces comfortably around his upscale living
room, deeply engaged in a work phone call. He's dressed
business casual and a neighboring skyscraper can be seen out
the window behind him.
JOE WILLARD
Well, I agree with Linda's
perspective and think we should
move forward accordingly. We just
want to consider the effect of
potential entrants such as start-up
costs, proprietary technology, and
access to raw materials. Clearly,
there's no shortage of emerging
markets manufacturers with low wage
cost structures. How well will
Forgiato Motors be able to compete
with them over the next three to
five yeaers? Either way, it seems
like a win, and good work to the
team for getting us there. Let's
just maximize our gains on this one
by taking the most calculated
approach possible.
Brief pause. JOE WILLARD chuckles.
45.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
I'm gonna hold you to that, Robert.
Given what your commission's going
to be, it only seems appropriate
that the first three or four rounds
be on you. Did I mention I only
drink Blue Lablel?
JOE WILLARD sports a satisfied grin. Brief pause. He looks
up at the clock on the wall.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Hey, I'm sorry to cut it short, but
I'm running late for my next
appointment.
JOE WILLARD, still smiling, picks up his keys and wallet
from the table. Still gripping the keys, he shoves his
wallet into his back pocket.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Thanks guys. Bye.
EXT. JFK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT/ARRIVALS - DAY
ALEX stands curbside with a small piece of luggage resting
beside him, when suddenly a dark grey Porsche Cayenne Turbo
pulls into the loading zone in front of him. ALEX smiles.
The car stops and JOE WILLARD exits the driver seat and
walks around to greet ALEX. The two exchange an excited hug.
(dual dialogue)
JOE WILLARD
Heyy!
ALEX
There he is!
JOE WILLARD grabs ALEX's bag, pops open the trunk and places
the bag inside.
ALEX (CONT'D)
I was beginning to wonder if maybe
I flew to the wrong state.
JOE WILLARD chuckles.
ALEX (CONT'D)
One can never tell with you
anymore.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S PORSCHE CAYENNE - DAY - TRAVELING
JOE WILLARD is driving with ALEX in the passenger seat.
46.
ALEX
Who but you would have an
indefinite work from home
opportunity and move across the
country within walking distance
from the company headquarters?
Both men smiling.
JOE WILLARD
Talk about a stonesthrow...I
literally chipped a few golf balls
at the building from my balcony in
a drunken stuper a couple weeks
ago.
ALEX chuckles.
ALEX
No shit.
ALEX changes the subject.
ALEX (CONT'D)
So, umm, getting down to our first
order of business. I've been on a
plane for the last six hours and
would you believe they still
prohibit cigar smoking, even in
first class?
JOE WILLARD responds in kind.
JOE WILLARD
You're kidding? Should we get you
over to the E-R- to have your
vitals checked?
ALEX
If the E-R- has a humidor and a
single malt, I'm dialing 9-1-1 if
you can't get me there in the next
ten minutes.
Smiles all around.
JOE WILLARD
I think I can manage that. The
cigar club out here is definitely
not Jack's place, but it's no hole
in the wall either. I think you're
gonna like it.
INT. THE CARNEGIE CLUB - DAY
JOE WILLARD and ALEX are seated among some of JOE WILLARD's
new cigar buddies, all of whom are well dressed in
professional business attire and either smoking cigars or
pipes, with some kind of alcoholic beverage in hand or near
47.
by. All men are smiling and socializing.
Attractive, yet conservative, waitresses are serving drinks
throughout the establishment, including one who sets a glass
of scotch on the table next to ALEX and walks away.
JOE WILLARD and ALEX are focused in on the other guys'
current conversation.
CIGAR CLUB MEMBER #1
I have to respectfully disagree
with you, Steve. It's clearly just
a matter of oversupply that's been
driving crude oil's bear market.
ALEX stares down at his scotch with a mundane look on his
face. He retrieves his cell phone from his inner coat pocket
and begins to fiddle with it, as if looking for something
better to do.
CIGAR CLUB MEMBER #1 (CONT'D)
That said, brent crude has mainly
traded in a range between ninety
and one-ten in the years leading up
to its high last June.
Without noticing ALEX's lack of interest in the
conversation, in attempt to be courteous to the newcomer,
another cigar member directs a question toward him.
CIGAR CLUB MEMBER #2
So, Alex, do you favor more
aggressive growth stocks or is your
portfolio pretty evenly
diversified?
ALEX looks around the room at all the waitresses and musters
up a witty response in attempt to steer the conversation in
a lighter direction.
ALEX
I'd like to invest some aggressive
growth into some of these servers.
His comment sparks less than enthused chuckles, while
JOEWILLARD nudges him in agreement.
Another cigar club member changes the subject with a comment
to someone else.
CIGAR CLUB MEMBER #3
Hey Todd, have you seen the latest
report on the municipal securities
market? The S-E-C really downplayed
the roles of some major key market
participants this year.
JOE WILLARD's reacts to a vibrating cell phone in his coat
pocket. He retrieves his phone to take a look. It's an
48.
incoming text message from ALEX. The message reads "Do you
have access to weed out here?"
The conversation among the gentleman continues faintly in
the background as JOE WILLARD sends the following reply back
to ALEX: "No, but it shouldn't be hard to find. I'm on it."
CIGAR CLUB MEMBER #4
Yeah, I thought the content and
timeliness of financial information
in primary offerings was a bit
concerning...
JOE WILLARD conducts a Craigslist search for "420" on his
cell phone. The first of many results states, "I got what u
need"
Faint financial talk continues in the background.
CIGAR CLUB MEMBER #4 (CONT'D)
...not to mention the compliance
with continuing disclosure
agreements in secondary market
disclosure.
JOE WILLARD clicks the first result in his search and keys
in a quick email, "Call me...212.555.5253"
ALEX fakes a look of interest and then waves the server over
for another scotch.
The ongoing discussion no longer faint.
CIGAR CLUB MEMBER #1
Hey, Jim. Is that the new Davidoff
Churchill series you're smoking?
How do you like it?
JOE WILLARD's phone vibrates indicating an incoming phone
call. He excuses himself away from the crowd to take the
call. The discussion continues without pause.
CIGAR CLUB MEMBER #2
Yeah, it's not bad. I still prefer
the Anniversario number two, but
for some reason they're always out
of them. I'm guessing it's to force
people to try the new Churchills,
but who knows. Interesting how
markets drive the evolution of a
brand even after optimal quality is
already achieved.
CIGAR CLUB MEMBER #3
No kidding.
JOE WILLARD returns, but remains standing.
49.
JOE WILLARD
Hey guys. It looks like ALEX and I
are gonna have to cut it short. Our
reservation just got bumped up.
JOE WILLARD issues ALEX a cooperative look.
EXT. W. 56TH STREET - NIGHT
JOE WILLARD and ALEX are walking down the street at a bit
faster than normal pace.
ALEX
I thought we'd never get out of
there. I don't know how you do it
man. If I had to hear one more
comment about bulls and bears, I
would've gone ape shit in there.
JOE WILLARD
There's definitely no place like
home, that's for sure.
ALEX
Yeah. So, what's the scoop? You
look like a man on a mission.
JOE WILLARD's eyes are focused forward as he talks to ALEX
who's walking beside him.
JOE WILLARD
Well, I found a weed hookup. He's
going to meet us at my place in
just a few. Hopefully we'll beat
him there. Since when did you get
back into puffing the ganj anyway?
I can't remember the last time we
blazed together.
ALEX
I didn't, but sitting there
listening to those incessant
ramblings prompted one of two
thoughts: smoke weed or shoot
myself. Let's hope your guy comes
through.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
JOE WILLARD is sitting on the couch emptying the contents of
a blunt cigar on the coffee table. His phone is on the
coffee table next to the pile of discarded tobacco.
ALEX is laid back in the comfy recliner chair, clearly spent
from a long day of traveling. He's catching JOE WILLARD up
on the latest gossip back home.
JOE WILLARD
And how's Jack doing?
50.
ALEX
You know, just slowly building his
empire. We're trying to convince
him to bring some strippers into
the V-I-P room after hours, but he
thinks it's a recipe for disaster.
Both guys chuckle.
ALEX (CONT'D)
He's probably right.
JOE WILLARD
Have you gone riding with Doc
lately?
Before ALEX could answer, the conversation is interrupted by
JOE WILLARD's vibrating cell phone.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
This must be him.
JOE WILLARD puts the phone to his ear.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Hello?
Brief pause.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Cool. Just take the elevator to the
thirty-sixth floor and I'm just to
the left, thirty-six eighteen. Ok,
bye.
JOE WILLARD claps the dust of tobacco from his hands over
the coffee table and level sets with ALEX before heading to
the door.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
If any drama goes down, you got my
back, right?
ALEX
Anything I'm able to do from this
chair, you have my word, I'm there
for you brotha.
JOE WILLARD opens the door just as SCRILL arrives at the
doorway. SCRILL's facial expression shows that he's a bit
serious, cautious, and not in the mood for games. He sports
a somewhat thuggish look, but seemingly more for the sake of
style than anything else.
JOE WILLARD
Hey, come on in. I'm Joe.
JOE WILLARD extends for a handshake while SCRILL instigates
a fist bump instead.
51.
SCRILL
Scrill.
The two walk over to a nearby dining room table. SCRILL's
eyes curiously wander around JOE WILLARD's place. He seems
to like what he sees, but continues to act indifferent.
JOE WILLARD
Thanks for coming by on short
notice. You literally are a life
saver.
SCRILL gets down to business.
SCRILL
So you wanted an eighth, right?
JOE WILLARD retreives some money from his pocket.
JOE WILLARD
Yeah. Sixty, right?
JOE WILLARD proceeds to hand SCRILL the cash, but SCRILL
gestures toward the table with a head nod.
SCRILL
On the table.
JOE WILLARD sets the money down on the table and SCRILL
retrieves a small bag wrapped in cellophane and tosses it on
the table as well. Each of them take what's theirs. SCRILL
slowly begins to proceed toward the door, as if there's
nothing left to do there.
JOE WILLARD
Cool. Thanks again man. This saved
the day.
SCRILL still as calm and mundane as when he first arrived.
SCRILL
Yeah. Come through anytime. I got
what you need.
Now it's JOE WILLARD who initiates the fist bump. SCRILL
reciprocates, exits the place, and JOE WILLARD shuts the
door behind him.
JOE WILLARD, now minorly excited, begins to walk back to the
couch and dishes out a verbal status check to ALEX while en
route.
JOE WILLARD
Oh, Alex? You still breathing?
52.
EXT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/BALCONY - NIGHT -
MOMENTS LATER
ALEX coughs repeatedly after just exhaling a large cloud of
blunt smoke. He passes the blunt to JOE WILLARD. The two are
sitting beside each other in lounge chairs, with a nice view
of the city lights and clear night sky.
JOE WILLARD begins to puff on the blunt.
ALEX
Wooh! We're definitely not in Cali
anymore, but hey, beggers can't be
choosers.
JOE WILLARD exhales a hit of smoke and mimics a less than
enjoyable taste in his mouth.
JOE WILLARD
Yeah. A bit harsh, huh? I expected
as much seeing as how I had to pick
a few seeds out of the batch.
ALEX
Next time, I'll find a way to bring
some with me, just in case we end
up back at your cigar club.
The two chuckle, now a little buzzed.
INT. JFK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT - DAY
JOE WILLARD and ALEX are standing a few feet from a security
checkpoint. ALEX's luggage is beside him. JOE WILLARD shakes
his hand. Both men are smiling.
JOE WILLARD
Man. It was great seeing you. We've
got to get together again soon.
ALEX
Yeah. I'll try to get some of the
boys to tag along next time. And
you don't be a stranger to the west
coast.
JOE WILLARD
Of course. Let me know when Jack
gives the green light on the
stripper idea and I'll be on the
first flight out.
Both men grin a little more as their attention is caught by
a very attractive, girl-next-door type, airline employee
passing nearby. As she passes, the woman makes eye contact
with JOE WILLARD and smirks at the obvious attention
directed her way.
53.
ALEX and JOE WILLARD continue to stare at her beautiful ass
as she walks away and then the two revert back to eye
contact with each other.
ALEX gives a head nod, gesturing toward the woman who is now
heading toward an airport exit..
ALEX
Go get 'em tiger!
They smile at each other and ALEX turns toward the security
line.
EXT. JFK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT/DEPARTURES - CONTINUOUS
The female airport employee is crossing the street from the
airport toward the parking structure when JOE WILLARD
quickly catches up to her and walks with her.
JOE WILLARD
Hey. I couldn't help but notice you
work here.
JOE WILLARD's eyes quickly scan the woman's uniform from top
to bottom. VIOLET smirks.
VIOLET
What gave it away?
JOE WILLARD
I have sort of a sixth sense about
these things.
She smiles, her eyes forward, the two still walking
together.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
So, are you a parking attendant?
Because I could really use some
help locating my car.
Before she can respond, he continues.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
And I'm surprised you didn't even
ask to carry my bag. I'm tempted to
talk to your supervisor.
She rolls her eyes, but is still smiling and seems to be
enjoying the banter, as she plays along.
VIOLET
To answer your question, I'm not a
parking attendant, and you're not
even wearing a bag.
54.
JOE WILLARD
You still could have asked. Don't
they teach you guys the importance
of customer service here?
VIOLET, still smiling, dishes out some sarcasm of her own.
VIOLET
Well, if you ran into me ten
minutes ago before my shift ended,
I most certainly would have found
someone to help you. I suppose I
still can if you're that much in
need.
JOE WILLARD
No. No. I'm afraid I'm already too
disgruntled at this point. If you
could just point me to where I can
issue a formal complaint, I'll be
on my way. Unless you were willing
to make it up to me.
EXT. JFK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT/PARKING STRUCTURE -
CONTINUOUS
JOE WILLARD interrupts himself, the two still walking.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
I'm Joe, by the way. What's your
name?
VIOLET still smiling.
VIOLET
Violet.
JOE WILLARD
Nice to meet you, Violet.
JOE WILLARD extends for a brief handshake and VIOLET
accepts. The two are now stopped, standing in the middle of
the parking structure.
VIOLET
You seem pretty distraught, Joe.
I'm not sure I could make it up to
you if I tried.
Hands still connected from their introductory handshake.
Both still smiling, eye contact now fully engaged.
JOE WILLARD
All you can do is try.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/BEDROOM - DAY
VIOLET and JOE WILLARD are in bed, seemingly naked, but half
covered by the sheets. VIOLET is covered by JOE WILLARD, his
55.
back exposed, the two both near sexual climax, in the
missionary position. VIOLET's mouth hangs open and she's
moaning softly with each thrust from JOE WILLARD.
After a few moments, the two reach their climax. JOE WILLARD
pauses briefly on top of VIOLET and then rolls onto his
back, the two now lying beside each other seeming fully
satisfied.
Still slightly out of breath and staring at the ceiling,
VIOLET comments somewhat in awe of the current situation.
VIOLET
I can't believe that just happened.
JOE WILLARD
Me neither. I'm really going to
have to talk to your supervisor
now.
She punches his shoulder playfully, both smiling.
VIOLET
What were you doing at the airport
anyway?
JOE WILLARD
My friend from back home came to
visit.
VIOLET
That's cool. What did you guys do?
JOE WILLARD thinks to himself briefly.
JOE WILLARD
Not much, really. We actually got
high, for old times' sake.
VIOLET
Ooh. Bad boys.
JOE WILLARD
It's pretty common back home.
There's hardly any stigma around it
anymore.
VIOLET
I've never tried it.
JOE WILLARD
You're not missing much.
VIOLET
I want to try it. Do you have any?
JOE WILLARD
No, but I can probably get some.
Hold on, let me check.
56.
JOE WILLARD reaches for his phone on the nightstand and
proceeds to make a call. The call connects and he proceeds
to talk to SCRILL on the other line.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Hey, Scrill, this is Joe, from the
other night.
Pause
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Yeah, hey, can we do another one of
those sometime today?
Pause
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Awesome. The sooner the better
works for me. I'm home now.
Pause
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Oh, but by any chance do you have
anything a little better?
Preferably, something without
seeds?
VIOLET faintly hears SCRILL yelling through the phone. JOE
WILLARD distances the phone from his ear and gives VIOLET a
look as if he must have said something wrong.
SCRILL (VOICEOVER)
You won't find any better than what
I got and good luck finding another
source. When it comes to this town,
I am the source.
Click. The call is disconnected. JOE WILLARD sets his phone
down beside him and looks at VIOLET.
JOE WILLARD
Well, I guess that ain't happening.
VIOLET sports a half serious humiliated look, as if she
somehow influenced the current outcome.
VIOLET
Sorry.
JOE WILLARD smiles and busts her chops.
JOE WILLARD
That's it. I'm definitely calling
your Supervisor.
She laughs and the two of them resume kissing, as if to
begin another round of sex.
57.
EXT. CENTRAL PARK - DAY
JOE WILLARD is jogging through the park. He's wearing a
sweat suit which reveals the sweat stains of an exhaustive
run. The ear buds in his ears connect to a music player
strapped around his arm.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - DAY
JOE WILLARD, still clad in sweaty garments, withdraws his
key from the front door as he enters his apartment. He's
carrying a small box, a stack of mail, and his music player
and earbuds all under one arm. He throws his keys and the
mail on the table and focuses his attention on the box.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - DAY -
MOMENTS LATER
JOE WILLARD has opened the box and is retrieving the
contents. Wrapped in bubble wrap is a small zip lock bag
containing an ounce of marijuana, with a note taped to the
bag.
He views the note which reads: "There's no place like home!"
His smile indicates that he fully grasps the message.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - DAY -
MOMENTS LATER
He's sitting on his couch exhaling a cloud of smoke with a
smoking bong in one hand and an open bag of weed on the
coffee table. He places the bong and lighter on the coffee
table and leans back on the couch attempting to enjoy his
ensuing buzz peacefully.
After staring at the ceiling briefly, he picks up the bag of
marijuana and views it in contemplation before his facial
expression reflects a newly formed idea.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - DAY -
MOMENTS LATER
JOE WILLARD, still on his couch, has his phone to his ear
and his outgoing call can be heard ringing. The faint sound
of someone's voice is heard on the receiving end.
SCRILL (VOICEOVER)
Hello?
JOE WILLARD speaks into the phone.
JOE WILLARD
Hey Scrill, it's Joe again, just
hear me out.
Silence.
58.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
I didn't mean to offend you the
other day. I do appreciate your
services and I want to make it up
to you. How about you bring me
another bag of whatever you got and
in addition to getting that from
you, I also have a little something
you might like. A peace offering
from me to you.
Pause.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Thanks, man. Okay. See you soon.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - LATER
JOE WILLARD opens his front door and SCRILL walks in. SCRILL
looks like he can't be bothered, but JOE WILLARD looks
semi-excited, as if he knows SCRILL will enjoy his gift.
JOE WILLARD walks SCRILL to the table and points to the cash
already set out for him.
JOE WILLARD
There's that.
As SCRILL retrieves a small bag for JOE WILLARD and places
it on the table, JOE WILLARD proceeds to discuss the peace
offering.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
So, a friend of mine back home
ended up surprising me with a
little package, which happened to
include a bit of some stuff from
California.
JOE WILLARD pulls half an ounce of his own stuff from his
pocket and tosses it on the table toward SCRILL.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
I wanted you to have it. You'll
like it.
SCRILL's skepticism slowly fades. A sense of gratification
starts to appeaer on his face involuntarily. He picks up the
bag and puts it into his pocket. He nods to JOE WILLARD.
SCRILL
Cool.
Without the need of an escort from JOE WILLARD, SCRILL
casually exits the pad. The door shuts behind him.
59.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/BATHROOM - DAY
JOE WILLARD is soaking in his jacuzzi tub, the surface of
the water layered with bubbles. A bong sits within reach and
the faint trickle of smoke from a previous hit still lingers
at the top of the chamber.
Wearing a wireless headset, JOE WILLARD is on a conference
call. He is as engaged as could be expected in his current
relaxed state. He musters a smile.
JOE WILLARD
That's why they pay you the big
bucks, Ron.
INT. JW'S CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS - CONTINUOUS
A group of suited professionals sit around a large
conference table in a very corporate looking conference
room. A conference bridge telephone sits in the center of
the table, allowing any telecommuters to participate in the
ongoing discussion. Unbeknownst to the meeting members,
their office is directly across the street from JOE
WILLARD'S NEY YORK PENTHOUSE. Their meeting room also
happens to be on the same exact level as JOE WILLARD's
place. JOE WILLARD could technically look out his window and
see them sitting around the table if he wanted to.
RON, a mid-sixties banking executive, sits at the head of
the conference table and responds to JOE WILLARD. Smiles all
around.
RON
Well, with a hundred twenty billion
dollar portfolio that we manage for
them, they'd better.
The group laughs. RON continues.
RON (CONT'D)
Hey Joe, when are you gonna pay us
a visit so we can thank you in
person for all the hard work you
do?
As RON continues, PAN TO JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK
PENTHOUSE/BATHROOM across the street.
RON (CONT'D)
You know, you really went the extra
mile with Solcor and Vostok. Talk
about hidden gems. I think every
one of us would have said no on
those two, but your analysis was
spot on and we sure learned a lot
from it.
60.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/BATHROOM - CONTINUOUS
JOE WILLARD, still soaking deep in the tub, his face barely
exposed above the bubbles, is happy to respond.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Thanks, Ron. I'll make it over
there as soon as I get my head
above water...which, based on the
next twelve quarterly projections,
is...
INT. JW'S CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS - CONTINUOUS
JOE WILLARD'S voice can be heard through the conference
bridge telephone.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
...probably not anytime soon.
The meeting members, including RON, all laugh.
RON
Well, keep up the good work.
Meeting adjourned everyone.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/BATHROOM - CONTINUOUS
JOE WILLARD takes off his headset, places it near the bong,
and sinks lower into the tub, when suddenly his phone rings.
JOE WILLARD wipes the water from his face and briefly look
over at the phone before reaching for it and answering it.
The phone still in its place, he answers it in speaker mode.
JOE WILLARD
Hello?
The speaker's voice emitting from the speaker phone fills
the bathroom.
SCRILL (VOICEOVER)
Yo, it's Scrill.
JOE WILLARD vaguely off guard.
JOE WILLARD
Oh, hey.
SCRILL (VOICEOVER)
I need more of that.
JOE WILLARD cracks a little smile.
JOE WILLARD
That was good, wasn't it.
SCRILL intently presses on.
61.
SCRILL (VOICEOVER)
Yeah. I need more.
Assuming little alternative, JOE WILLARD issues a
compromising response.
JOE WILLARD
Well, I don't have a whole lot of
control over when it comes my way,
but you have my word, when it does,
I'll make sure to break you off a
little something.
SCRILL clarifies his intentions.
SCRILL (VOICEOVER)
Nah, you don't understand. I need a
lot more. Have your buddy send a
pound. Give it to me at Cali prices
and I'll give you a grand.
JOE WILLARD is completely unprepared for the conversation he
is having. He replies somewhat shocked.
JOE WILLARD
A grand? What? Wait. No. I mean,
I'm not sure I have any control
over that kind of outcome. I don't
think it's something I'd be able to
arrange. I appreciate...
SCRILL cuts him off.
SCRILL (VOICEOVER)
Aint no thinking about it. You got
some. You get more. Tell your
friend to send you a pound and
whatever it cost him, I'll add a G
on top of it for you.
JOE WILLARD, still reluctant, tries to reason with SCRILL.
JOE WILLARD
Scrill. You've got to understand, I
don't think this is someth...
SCRILL cuts him off again.
SCRILL (VOICEOVER)
Hey Joe. We've been good so far,
right?
JOE WILLARD stutters his response.
JOE WILLARD
What? Yeah.
SCRILL continues without pause.
62.
SCRILL (VOICEOVER)
I mean, I know we had our setbacks,
but we squashed it, and when you
need me to come through for you,
I'm there, right?
JOE WILLARD
Well, yeah..
SCRILL (VOICEOVER)
So, that's how we maintain this
good thing we got going. When you
need me, I'm there. And when I need
you, you're there. You get it?
JOE WILLARD stutters some more.
JOE WILLARD
Well, yeah, but..
SCRILL interrupts.
SCRILL (VOICEOVER)
Cuz we wouldn't want to get things
back the way they were, where
instead of coming through for each
other, we're beefin'. The last
thing we want is to be beefin',
right?
JOE WILLARD musters up what little confidence he has left.
JOE WILLARD
Look, it may be out of my hands,
but let me see what I can do.
INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM
ALEX sits in his chair, alone in the members only room,
talking on the phone.
ALEX
Yeah, I can do that all day long. I
know growers up and down the coast.
Charge him four and I'll give you a
grand on this end too. Do you think
he can handle a consistent supply?
INT. JOE WILLARD'S CAR - CONTINUOUS - TRAVELING
JOE WILLARD talks with ALEX over the car speakerphone.
ALEX (CONT'D)(VOICEOVER)
It's not really worth the hassle
for just a one time thing?
63.
JOE WILLARD
From the way that he talks,
consistent is a mandatory
requirement.
ALEX (VOICEOVER)
Good. Hang tight. The wheels are in
motion.
MONTAGE - VARIOUS
A) INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - DAY -
JOE WILLARD and SCRILL are standing at the dining table. JOE
WILLARD opens a laptop bag on the table and withdraws a
sealed pound of marijuana halfway from the bag. SCRILL gives
a head nod and places an envelope filled with cash onto the
table next to the bag. SCRILL takes the bag and fist bumps
JOE WILLARD.
B) INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - DAY -
JOE WILLARD enters the house from the front door. He's
wearing a sweat stained sweatsuit and has his hands full of
several packages.
C) INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - DAY -
JOE WILLARD and SCRILL standing at the dining table. A
laptop bag and one envelope full of cash sit on the table.
D) INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - DAY -
JOE WILLARD and SCRILL standing at the dining table. Two
laptop bags and two envelopes full of cash sit on the table.
E) INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - DAY -
JOE WILLARD and SCRILL standing at the dining table. A
duffel bag and seven envelopes full of cash sit on the
table.
F) INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - DAY -
JOE WILLARD and SCRILL standing at the dining table. SCRILL
is dressed much sharper than usual. Two duffel bags and
fourteen envelopes full of cash sit on the table.
G) INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - DAY -
JOE WILLARD paces back and forth, chatting away into his
headset. He's wearing a sportcoat with a t-shirt, boxers,
and socks. While he continues pacing and chatting on the
phone, PAN TO JW'S CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS across the street
where a bunch of suited business executives are crowded
around a meeting table, focused intently at the phone
conference bridge in the center of the table.
H) INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
- LATER - JOE WILLARD sits in his lounge chair with a smoke
filled bong resting in his hand. He's clearly stoned and is
sporting the most relaxed smile.
END OF MONTAGE
64.
INT. THE CARNEGIE CLUB - DAY
JOE WILLARD is sitting with a group of his corporate
friends, everyone suited, smoking cigars and amused in
conversation. JOE WILLARD chuckling from someone's last
comment is interrupted with a phone call. The display on his
phone reads "ALEX".
JOE WILLARD nods to be excused while rushing out of his seat
and over to an unoccupied area where he takes the call with
excitement.
JOE WILLARD*/-
Hey, Alex! Nice timing buddy. How's
everything out west?
JOE WILLARD gestures to the waitress at his abandoned seat
to leave his drink on the table.
ALEX responds in a less than enthused tone.
ALEX (VOICEOVER)
Things could be better, brotha.
JOE WILLARD's face quickly shifts from joyful to concerned.
JOE WILLARD
Why? What's up?
ALEX continues.
ALEX (VOICEOVER)
Can't really say much over the
phone, but we had to pull the plug
on this end.
JOE WILLARD sports a confused look.
JOE WILLARD
Wha.. I don't understan...
ALEX chimes in.
ALEX (VOICEOVER)
Let's just say the recent shift in
political climate has prompted some
unwanted scrutiny on various
shipping operations. The pipeline
had to be severed and everyone just
needs to lay low for a while.
JOE WILLARD taking the news with some shock.
ALEX (VOICEOVER)
The good news is we had an inside
source and were able to cut and run
before any blowback. Do you still
have your day job as an underwear
model?
65.
JOE WILLARD forces a slight grin.
JOE WILLARD
Yeah. Yeah, well, I don't really
know what to say. Everything's just
been going so well. Are you sure
there's nothing we can do?
JOE WILLARD desperately trying to salvage the operation.
JOE WILLARD
I've got a buddy in the exports
business. I can rent a warehouse
and we can ship them in pallets?
ALEX ends the discussion.
ALEX (VOICEOVER)
Fraid not, brotha. But hey, don't
be a stranger. Everybody over here
at the shop misses you.
JOE WILLARD takes the hint and gazes off in deep thought
while issuing his response.
JOE WILLARD
Yeah, I think I've got to get back
there soon.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - DAY
JOE WILLARD and SCRILL are standing over an empty dining
room table, both sporting serious and mundane looks.
SCRILL
What do you mean there's no more?
JOE WILLARD
I know. I'm pretty shocked about
the whole thing too, but that's
what they said, there's some heat
right now and they had to give it a
rest for a while.
SCRILL
How long's a while?
JOE WILLARD
I don't know. It didn't sound like
there was going to be an
opportunity to start back up
anytime soon. I think it could be a
while.
SCRILL is dumbfounded and lacks a response. He finally
starts to muster some words as he slowly steps his way
toward exiting the apartment.
66.
SCRILL
Nah.. Nah.. This ain't happenin'.
You see what you can do on your end
and let's figure out how to keep
this going. I'll be in touch soon.
JOE WILLARD clarifies.
JOE WILLARD
But..
SCRILL shuts the door behind him as he exits JOE WILLARD'S
apartment.
INT. THE CARNEGIE CLUB - DAY
JOE WILLARD is standing at the bar, dressed business casual,
smoking a cigar with a pint glass of beer and an empty
bottle sitting on the bar in front of him. He's flirting
with the attractive young female bartender.
JOE WILLARD
Skittles or M&Ms?
The cute bartender smiles and stares at the ceiling to make
up her mind.
BARTENDER
Skittles.
JOE WILLARD responds in humorous shock.
JOE WILLARD
Ohh! No way. Give me a back of
Peanut M&Ms any day of the week
over skittles. I love Peanut M&Ms.
I could go Scrooge McDuck in vault
filled with Peanut M&Ms.
She chuckles as he continues.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Besides, don't you think the
thickness and round pointed ends of
the Peanut M&Ms would feel so
soothing on your body?
The BARTENDER is entranced just as the two are interrupted
by an unexpected SCRILL.
SCRILL
Yo. We gotta talk.
JOE WILLARD goes from confident to uncomfortable almost
instantly.
JOE WILLARD
Oh. Hey.
67.
JOE WILLARD gestures the sign of a brief departure toward
the BARTENDER and quickly scurries out the front door of
cigar club.
EXT. THE CARNEGIE CLUB - DAY
JOE WILLARD and SCRILL quickly engage in discussion.
JOE WILLARD
You could have called.
SCRILL
I've been calling.
JOE WILLARD
Well, I'm struggling through this
ordeal too, but I'm out of options.
There's nothing I can do.
SCRILL
You don't understand man. I got a
wife and kid. This is my bread and
butter. When I started fuckin' with
you, I pretty much became a
competitor to my previous supplier.
Now he cut me off. I sold my last
one a few days ago and now I'm
runnin out of options too.
JOE WILLARD is only somewhat sympathetic.
JOE WILLARD
Well, I totally respect that, man.
You've always come through for me.
You handle your business with
integrity and I'm sure you take
care of your family. I wish there
was more that I can do and you know
that as soon as I hear of any
options to pick up where we left
off, I'll be in touch instantly.
JOE WILLARD lowers his voice slightly.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Can't you appeal to your supplier
and maybe kick him down with a
little extra in the beginning or
something?
SCRILL shakes his head and waves off JOE WILLARD's
suggestion.
SCRILL
Nah, man. It ain't like that. This
business is serious. We don't fuck
around. Everyone's life is on the
line, you know what I mean?
68.
SCRILL gives a mildly threatening look to JOE WILLARD. JOE
WILLARD attempts to spare himself from SCRILL'S threat.
JOE WILLARD
Look. I mean, this whole thing
hasn't been easy on me either. We
were both kind of flying high for a
minute there and now everything is
fucked and we're back to the real
world.
JOE WILLARD reaches into his coat for his pocket book and
begins to withdraw some cash.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
I'm really strapped right now and I
know how bad it feels to take a
hit. We just have to stay positive,
lick our wounds, and get back to
the grind.
JOE WILLARD hands SCRILL a thousand dollars.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Here's a thousand dollars. Consider
it a little severance package,
something to hold you over until
you work things out.
SCRILL takes the cash without objection, but very directly
ammends JOE WILLARD's proposal.
SCRILL
Well, you know. It aint like
someone with my kind of work
history can show up to the
unemployment line and expect to get
paid. And I need to get paid.
SCRILL holds up the cash and issues a threatening statute.
SCRILL (CONT'D)
So, right now, you're my
unemployment office and I'll be
bumpin' into you every week until I
get my shit straight.
Before JOE WILLARD could respond, the two are interrupted by
the BARTENDER who has joined them outside.
BARTENDER
Hey, Joe. Sorry to interrupt. My
shift is just about to end. Do you
want to come close out your tab?
SCRILL interrupts.
69.
SCRILL
Yeah, that's alright. I was just
leaving.
SCRILL issues a mildly seductive look to the BARTENDER.
SCRILL (CONT'D)
You have a nice day, beautiful.
The BARTENDER smiles as SCRILL smiles at her, while JOE
WILLARD appears somewhat scatterbrained.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
JOE WILLARD is dressed for a casual night on the town. He's
holding a boxed bottle of Highland Park Fifteen scotch. He
stares out his peephole for several seconds and then presses
his ear to the door to listen for external sounds. Convinced
that the coast is clear, he quickly exits his apartment and
shuts the door behind him. Locking the door from outside
prompts a quick CLANK sound in his now empty apartment.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S PENTHOUSE ELEVATOR - NIGHT - CONTINUOUS
JOE WILLARD quickly enters the elevator and hits the "G"
button to get down to the garage. He then quickly and
repeatedly taps the button to close the doors. Finally the
doors slowly come to a close.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S PENTHOUSE GARAGE - NIGHT - CONTINUOUS
JOE WILLARD exits the elevator into his garage and heads
towards his gray Porsche Cayenne, box of scotch in hand. He
looks all around him in paranoid fashion until he reaches
the driver door of his vehicle.
Before he can enter, SCRILL sneaks up behind JOE WILLARD and
holds a knife to his throat. SCRILL is wearing a dark hooded
sweater and black leather gloves. JOE WILLARD stands
helplessly in shock, still clutching the box of scotch.
SCRILL
Hey Uncle Joe. I ain't seen an
unemployment check in a minute, so
I had to head down to the office.
Now, you gonna cut me a check, or
am I gonna cut you?
JOE WILLARD struggles to quickly get on SCRILL's good side.
JOE WILLARD
Relax! Relax! Let me get my wallet.
JOE WILLARD quickly reaches into his coat for his pocket
book and pulls out whatever cash is inside.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
Here. It's all I have. Take it!
70.
Shifting his focus to the money, SCRILL releases JOE WILLARD
and grabs the cash, still wielding the knife. SCRILL quickly
shuffles through the small stack of bills to surmise the
amount. He's unimpressed.
SCRILL
Eight hundred dollars? What, you
think I'm some kind of chump?
You're hurtin' too? It don't look
like you're hurtin'.
SCRILL quickly scans JOE WILLARD from head to toe. SCRILL is
still wielding the knife.
SCRILL (CONT'D)
My wife is talkin' about leaving
me, talking about how I ain't
providing, and you're heading out
to go drown YOUR sorrows in what,
some expensive bottle of scotch, in
your nice ride, expensive threads..
JOE WILLARD tries applying some logic.
JOE WILLARD
We have two different lives. We had
different careers before we met.
You pushed me to do what I could to
help you and I saw an opportunity
and it worked out for a while until
things went south. There's nothing
I could do. Now we have to go back
to our own lives.
JOE WILLARD feeling more confident every second that SCRILL
doesn't interrupt his rant.
JOE WILLARD (CONT'D)
I can't keep paying you, and I
can't keep having you pop up like
this, threatening me all the time.
I've done more than my part to help
you get back on your feet.
SCRILL finally chimes in, undeterred by JOE WILLARD's rant.
SCRILL
You will keep helping me...
SCRILL's tone is calm, but direct.
SCRILL (CONT'D)
...and eight hundred aint gonna cut
it. And don't make me have to sneak
up on you, cuz that's when shit
gets dangerous.
SCRILL holds the knife inches from JOE WILLARD's face.
71.
SCRILL (CONT'D)
Make sure I hear from you by next
Wednesday and make sure you have a
G for me or I'ma have to take your
car.
JOE WILLARD's face expressing reluctance, he cannot respond
before SCRILL snatches the box of scotch from his hand.
SCRILL (CONT'D)
And drown your sorrows in something
else tonight.
MONTAGE - VARIOUS
A) INT. JOE WILLARD'S PORCHE CAYENNE TURBO - DAY - TRAVELING
- JOE WILLARD sees an incoming call on his phone, but
declines to answer it when seeing SCRILL's name on the
display.
B) EXT. AUTO REPAIR SHOP - DAY - JOE WILLARD stands at the
threshold between being in an out of the garage. One
mechanic is off in a corner working on a tire, while JOE
WILLARD is observing another mechanic, whose legs can be
seen protruding from beneath JOE WILLARD's Porsche Cayenne
Turbo. His car is inside the garage being worked on.
C) INT. AUTO REPAIR SHOP - DAY - CONTINUOUS - The man under
JOE WILLARD's Porsche Cayenne Turbo can be seen installing a
GPS tracking device.
D) INT. JAKE SPOTSWOOD'S GUN SHOP - DAY - JOE WILLARD is
standing at a display case, as a store clerk retrieves a
thirty-eight special revolver for him to look at.
E) INT. JAKE SPOTSWOOD'S GUN SHOP/RANGE - DAY - JOE WILLARD
is firing his new thirty-eight special revolver at a paper
target. A man with an instructor's badge is standing next to
him, giving him pointers in between shots.
F) INT. THE CARNEGIE CLUB - DAY - SCRILL pops in and scans
the room for any glimpse of JOE WILLARD. Upon determining
that JOE WILLARD is not there, SCRILL exits the club.
END OF MONTAGE
INT. JOE WILLARD'S NEW YORK PENTHOUSE/BATHROOM - NIGHT
JOE WILLARD is soaking in his tub. A folded wet rag sits
steaming across his eyes. The room is completely silent.
Only a few DRIPS can be heard as they trickle from JOE
WILLARD's head back into the water, whenever he moves ever
so slightly. JOE WILLARD looks relaxed, perhaps even asleep.
Suddenly, JOE WILLARD hears the faint whisper of body
movement and he quickly sits up out of the water and removes
the wet rag from his eyes. To his utter shock and dismay,
SCRILL is standing over him, just inches away.
72.
JOE WILLARD quickly looks towards a folded towel sitting
beside his tub, only to find that what he's looking for is
no longer wrapped within the towel.
SCRILL
Looking for this?
SCRILL brings JOE WILLARD'S new thirty-eight special into
view. JOE WILLARD is in shock. SCRILL throws the gun on the
floor behind them and pounds JOE WILLARD's face with his
fist.
JOE WILLARD's head flies back and he starts to sink under
water. SCRILL grabs him by the throat and holds him under
water during a useless rant.
SCRILL
What? You don't take me seriously?
Is this what you'd rather endure?
You don't live this life! This is
my life!
JOE WILLARD's head still forced under water. From his
perspective, he sees a blur of SCRILL's face holding him
down under the water.
CUT TO:
INT. JOE WILLARD'S CHURCH OF CHRIST - DAY
JOE WILLARD's perspective is still a blur of the face of the
person holding him down under water, when suddenly, that
same person lifts JOE WILLARD out of the large baptismal
basin.
JOE WILLARD shows a hint of shock from being submerged under
water, but as the water fades from his eyes, he sees the
familiar face of PASTOR BILL also standing in the baptismal
basin. PASTOR BILL and THE CONGREGATION all cheering on JOE
WILLARD's new entry into the faith.
JOE WILLARD's pregnant wife, VIOLET, is standing in the
front pew, clapping and smiling along with the rest of THE
CONGREGATION.
PASTOR BILL
Welcome into the family of Christ!
INT. JOE WILLARD'S CHURCH OF CHRIST - DAY - MOMENTS LATER
JOE WILLARD is now suited and sitting next to VIOLET in the
front pew. PASTOR BILL is in the middle of his sermon with
THE CONGREGATION fully attentive.
PASTOR BILL
Jesus said there are two roads in
life. He said, "Enter through the
narrow gate. For the gate is wide
(MORE)
73.
PASTOR BILL (cont'd)
and the road is broad that leads to
destruction, and there are many who
go through it. How narrow is the
gate and difficult the road that
leads to life and few find it".
PASTOR BILL continues.
PASTOR BILL (CONT'D)
The broad road leads to judgment,
destruction, and hell. On that road
people seem to be having a
wonderful time. It's a party
atmosphere. "Eat, drink, and be
merry for tomorrow we die" is their
motto. But there is emptiness,
loneliness, and insecurity.
THE CONGREGATION is mostly all smiles and nods in agreement.
PASTOR BILL (CONT'D)
The narrow road, on the other hand,
leads to heaven. Traveling on that
road is difficult because it goes
against the grain of society, the
tide of all pleasures, and the sins
of this world. On this road there
is fun and laughter, too. But there
is a sense of destiny, a
distinction of hope, an assurance
of something better to follow this
earthly existence. Our motto is:
"The best is yet to come."
THE CONGREGATION issues sighs of praise and accord.
THE CONGREGATION
Amen!
PASTOR BILL finishes his thought, looking at JOE WILLARD.
PASTOR BILL
Which road are you on? What will be
your final destination? Where will
you be one minute after you die?
JOE WILLARD gazes off into space.
INT. JOE WILLARD'S CHURCH OF CHRIST - DAY - MOMENTS LATER
THE CONGREGATION are all wandering about throughout the
church greeting each other. The service has ended and PASTOR
BILL stands at the exit of the church offering handshakes
and salutations to those departing.
JOE WILLARD and pregnant VIOLET are standing only a few feet
from where they were originally sitting. An old couple has
just finished shaking JOE WILLARD's hand and is walking
74.
away.
ALEX, suited in standard church attire, quickly appears in
the empty space in front of JOE WILLARD and extends his hand
for a shake.
JOE WILLARD issues a cheer of pleasant surprise and opens
his arms for a hug. ALEX obliges and the two hug.
JOE WILLARD
Woooahhh! Glad you could make it
buddy.
VIOLET is all smiles. The two finish hugging. ALEX withdraws
an envelope from his coat pocket and hands it to JOE
WILLARD. JOE WILLARD gives a sigh of humiliation.
ALEX
Hey, well, I had odds on you
choking on the water and me having
to represent you in court.
Everyone chuckles.
JOE WILLARD
So how long are you here for?
ALEX
Ahh, I had to take care of
something here in town, so I made
sure to have it coincide with this,
but I'm actually heading back
today.
JOE WILLARD
Ohh, man. Well, I'm glad you made
it. It's great to see you.
ALEX
Yeah. You should come out to the
Stampede next week.
ALEX looks over at VIOLET.
ALEX
What do you say, Violet? Let Joe
loose in California for a few days,
smoking cigars and watching a bunch
of old guys show off their fancy
cars?
VIOLET is all smiles.
VIOLET
Yeah. I think it'd be fun. I think
you should go enjoy some time with
your friends. Especially before
things get really hectic.
75.
VIOLET rubs her pregnant stomach and everyone chuckles. ALEX
and JOE WILLARD exchange looks of accomplishment.
EXT. CALLABASIS FERRARI - DAY
SUPERIMPOSE: "Callabasis, California"
A crowd of people is gathered around a small stage and
podium, where ELIE is concluding a short speech. More than a
hundred fancy Italian sportscars are parked all around.
Behind ELIE is a banner dawning the words "ITALIAN
STAMPEDE".
ELIE
...and that's the biggest reason
we've been able to pull this off
successfully for four consecutive
years. The Highway Patrol doesn't
have to go out of their way like
they do to ensure our safety, so to
show our appreciation, let's make
sure we drive responsibly and
follow all common rules and
protocols.
Engines start to rev in the background.
ELIE (CONT'D)
I hear engines starting to rev. I
can take a hint.
The crowd chuckles.
ELIE (CONT'D)
Thanks again, everyone, for coming
out year after year and creating
these momentous occassions. Let's
try to stay together. Remember,
stay out of the left lane unless
you're passing.
More engines start to rev.
ELIE (CONT'D)
We'll see you in Monterey!
Hands go up in the air in celebration, engines rev, the
crowd cheers.
MONTAGE - VARIOUS
A) EXT. INTERSTATE FIVE HIGHWAY - DAY - More than a hundred
fancy Italian sportscars receive a Highway Patrol escort, as
they ride up the highway.
B) INT. ALEX'S LAMBORGHINI - CONTINUOUS - TRAVELING - ALEX
is behind the wheel and JOE WILLARD is in the passenger
seat. The two are sporting shades and are dressed as if
about to be on a golf course. They exchange smiles and ALEX
76.
quickly shifts the car into a faster gear.
C) EXT. ALEX'S LAMBORGHINI - CONTINUOUS - TRAVELING - ALEX
zooms past ELIE's Ferrari. ELIE can be seen smiling and
giving a thumbs up to ALEX's car.
D) EXT. CARTER MURDOCK'S MASERATI - CONTINUOUS - TRAVELING -
CARTER MURDOCK can be seen behind the wheel. DETECTIVE
RANDALL rides in his passenger seat.
E) EXT. NEWS CHOPPER SEVEN - CONTINUOUS - TRAVELING - A news
helicopter is filming the long stretch of beautiful cars as
they race down the highway in colorful fashion.
F) EXT. ALEX'S LAMBORGHINI - NIGHT - ALEX comes to a stop in
front of a fancy establishment where valet attendants
quickly rush to open both car doors. ALEX and JOE WILLARD
both exit the vehicle, smoking cigars, sporting liesure
sportcoats. They walk toward the entrance, away from the
vehicle, as the valets attend to the car.
G) INT. THE FANTASY CLUB - NIGHT - The lights are dimly lit.
Most people are dancing. Beautiful girls are everywhere, all
flocking to the expensive car owners. JOE WILLARD and ALEX
are escorted to a V.I.P area as they are seen exiting
through a curtain.
END OF MONTAGE
INT. THE FANTASY CLUB/VIP AREA - NIGHT
Sitting around a table are ALEX, JOE WILLARD, CARTER MURDOCK
and DETECTIVE RANDALL. All men are smoking cigars and
staring down at the dance floor below, which is filled with
beautiful women in lingerie, dancing with anyone craving
attention.
ALEX suddenly interrupts the mood with a serious topic. He
gestures toward DETECTIVE RANDALL.
ALEX
So, Jeff. I think it's time we fill
Joe in on our new little caper.
DETECTIVE RANDALL looks at ALEX.
DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL
I thought you'd never ask.
DETECTIVE RANDALL switches his attention over to JOE
WILLARD.
DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL (CONT'D)
You're gonna love this one.
JOE WILLARD smirks, not knowing what to expect.
77.
DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL (CONT'D)
So, have you heard of Royal K?
Kenny Bishard.
JOE WILLARD seems oblivious and shakes his head.
JOE WILLARD
Nah uh.
DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL
Royal K is some rap mogul from the
eightees who really made it big
over the last ten years producing
all these new auto tune up and
comers.
Half smiles all around.
DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL (CONT'D)
Well, Royal K...
In noticably rhyming fashion.
DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL (CONT'D)
...has passed away.
Sustained grins among the group.
DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL (CONT'D)
Anyway, the guy's estimated net
worth is just over a billion
dollars and since yours truly
landed the security contract over
his existing estate.
ALEX nudges CARTER MURDOCK.
ALEX
Thanks to the diceased's attorney,
Mr. Murdock.
Everyone's faces light up. JOE WILLARD sports a stunned
smile with eyebrows raised. CARTER MURDOCK stares down at
the table and smiles and nods, still tuned in to DETECTIVE
RANDALL explaining the details.
DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL
And part of my job as head of
security, aside from keeping a
security detail at his estate to
guard his assets, is to hire a
banking representative to confirm
the accounting of all of Mr. Royal
K's posessions.
Everyone's focus is aimed at JOE WILLARD. He starts to
realize where the conversation is headed. DETECTIVE RANDALL
explains further.
78.
DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL (CONT'D)
From what we've been able to
surmise, about fifty million in
gold, paintings and other fine
collectibles can easily be scraped
off the top of this guy's billion
dollar nest egg without anyone even
noticing.
Now everyone is staring at the table. DETECTIVE RANDALL is
staring at JOE WILLARD.
DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL (CONT'D)
After two million goes towards my
security contract, that leaves
about twelve million for each of
us. The whole thing can be done in
a couple months time and all you
have to do is turn a blind eye to
the amended asset lists that we'll
provide to you, as our banking
representative.
JOE WILLARD looks over at ALEX. ALEX is nodding his head in
the affirmative.
ALEX
That's a lot of money.
DETECTIVE RANDALL drives his point further.
DETECTIVE JEFF RANDALL
Apparently, the guy was a crackhead
and committed suicide. Think about
who all is going to get their hands
on that money if we don't. I say
it's time we get our comeupance.
ALEX lightens the mood.
ALEX
Hey, why don't we all ponder what's
been put before us and take the
weekend to decide. I see Jeff's
eyes gravitating towards the dance
floor, and Carter here may have
already rubbed one out under the
table.
Everyone laughs. DETECTIVE RANDALL rises from his chair and
presumably exits towards the dance floor. A sexy girl in
lingerie quickly arrives to fill DETECTIVE RANDALL's empty
seat and start flirting with CARTER MURDOCK. JOE WILLARD and
ALEX puff on their cigars, each independently observing the
atmosphere.
79.
INT. THE GRAND HAVANA CIGAR LOUNGE/MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM - DAY
JOE WILLARD enters the room. ALEX is stationed in his chair,
smoking a cigar. He is pleased to see JOE WILLARD.
ALEX
Heyy. I was wondering if I was
going to see you again before you
left. Are you heading out today?
JOE WILLARD
Yeah, I'm heading to the airport in
a few hours. Of course I wouldn't
leave without stopping by here
first. I knew the odds were pretty
good you'd be around.
The two are in good moods.
ALEX
I'd spend the night if Jack let me.
Chuckles.
ALEX
So, what do you think about the
proposal this weekend? Could be
pretty good, ehh?
JOE WILLARD responds as if somewhat prepared.
JOE WILLARD
Yeah, it's funny. Any other time, I
wouldn't have hesitated to tell you
guys I'm in, but suddenly, with
Violet and a new family to worry
about, and being involved in the
church, it's like, what am I doing
it all for, if not for staying on
the straight and narrow.
ALEX nods in agreement.
ALEX
I feel ya, brotha.
JOE WILLARD
So, yeah, I'm gonna have to pass.
ALEX quickly shifts to another matter.
ALEX
I understand. I'll tell the guys.
Hey, by the way, I've got to get a
hundred grand over to a guy in New
York. I already have a guy inside
security at L-A-X. He can just hand
you the bag before you board the
(MORE)
80.
ALEX (cont'd)
plane and someone will take it from
you on the other side at J-F-K.
Consider it a way to make an easy
five grand. That's how much I'll
give you for going through with it.
JOE WILLARD quickly decides and shakes his head.
JOE WILLARD
I'm afraid I can't, Alex. I can't
explain it, but this is just a
different time for me.
ALEX shows a satisfied look and catches JOE WILLARD off
guard with his response.
ALEX
Yep. This is THE time for you my
brotha.
ALEX is smiling and JOE WILLARD is in a state of shock. ALEX
places his hand on JOE WILLARD's back and guides him toward
the door of the MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM.
ALEX remarks sentimentally.
ALEX (CONT'D)
It's been a pleasure, Joe. I've got
more work to do down here, but
you'll be with those you love.
JOE WILLARD looks as confused as ever. ALEX reaches and
turns the knob to the MEMBER'S ONLY ROOM. He pulls the door
open slightly and a nearly blinding light shines through
from the other side.
JOE WILLARD looks even more worried and cannot understand
what is happening. ALEX is smiling.
ALEX (CONT'D)
Don't be afraid. There's no place
like home, remember.
ALEX cracks the door wide open and the room fills with
light.
INT. PATHWAY TO HEAVEN - DAY
JOE WILLARD enters the pathway to heaven and is in awe of
the supernatural experience. Standing along the path are the
key players in his journey through purgatory, JACK, the
cigar club owner, LARRY WASHINGTON, the wealthy retiree,
JERRY CRANSTEIN, the retired movie producer, CARTER MURDOCK,
DETECTIVE RANDALL, LEON, THE PIMP, SCRILL, and pregnant
VIOLET.
Each member gives their own gesture, whether it be a pat on
the back, a handshake, a hug. Everyone is happily embracing
81.
JOE WILLARD's presence. He makes his way to SCRILL who
smiles and gives JOE WILLARD a hug. He then meets his wife
at the end of the path.
JOE WILLARD stares at his smiling wife. He touches her face
and begins to cry. He looks down at her pregnant stomach and
the two of them gently caress the unborn child.
VIOLET is all smiles and a mother figure.
VIOLET
We're so proud of you.
She places her hand on JOE WILLARD'S cheek. He is still
crying.
VIOLET (CONT'D)
You have nothing to be afraid of.
VIOLET gestures for JOE WILLARD to continue onward toward
the brilliant light. He proceeds slowly and cautiously until
the light begins to envelop him. He looks back at VIOLET and
then disappears into the light.
CUT TO:
EXT. DEVIL'S BLUFF/TRAIL - DAY
A vigil is placed at the side of the road, consisting of
candles, flowers, a motorcycle helmet and a picture of JOE
WILLARD.
The sound of a motorcycle races by in the background.
FADE OUT:
