Lee Schiller

Friday

Nov022012

THE KAYDEN COLLECTION (Screenplay Sample)

Author:

7th Ave. Where it's about Dreams on hangers and hanging on to Dreams. Sex, Drama and Intrigue set against the backdrop of NYC's glamorous and ghastly Fashion Industry as young Fashion Designer, BARRY KAYDEN, with everything at stake, pulls off an unprecedented last-minute heist by stealing back his own work from a ruthless Department Store Heiress who has never lost anything, or anyone that she wants.

Registered: WGAw No. 1615782
Feature Film: 125 pp.
Genre: Drama
Legal: Copyrighted ©
Additional: Creative Artists Agency Story Report, By Darrien Robestan http://www.caa.com
Status: AVAILABLE - Inquire via 'Contact' page
Screenplay Sample Reading Time: 14 minutes
Research Assistance by Andrew Fezza at: http://www.andrewfezza.com
Music: THE KAYDEN COLLECTION THEME by Federico Vaona at: http://soundcloud.com/aguarecords/thekaydencolletiontheme / http://www.federicovaona.com
Graphic/Visual Design: by Samantha Perez at: http://www.artbysamanthaperez.com

___________________THE KAYDEN COLLECTION___________________

FADE IN:

CREDITS ROLL:

INT. The Javitz Center, NYC – Day

A huge Fashion Industry Trade Show is roaring in progress across the massive main floor of the convention center. Booths representing a thousand manufacturers crowd the space, forming a sprawling grid stretching as far as the eye can see. Runway previews, slide presentations and video clips all compete for attention. In the bustling aisles, Hosts and Hostesses distributing swag parade sheathed in high style, among the frantic Retailers, Buyers and Press of the garment business. Gliding through the ordered chaos, CAMERA PANS TO: A pair of young men, each with a huge black Designer’s portfolio, huddled in a far corner passing business cards back and forth. One of them is lanky, dark haired BARRY KAYDEN –

CREDITS END:

BARRY

(handing over a business card)

Here, this guy might be interested in your stuff.

DESIGNER

Joe Gramino? I hear he’s bad news.

BARRY

What difference does it make if you can sell him a design?

DESIGNER

Barry, how long have you been here?

BARRY

I’ve worked about three quarters of the floor.

DESIGNER

Already?

BARRY

(smiling and turning to go)

Yeah. I was here by Four o’clock this morning when

the sartorial spiders started spinning their webs.

BARRY fights his way back into the mainstream and closely follows a handsome woman in her mid-thirties wearing a tailored suit. WE SEE: Every opportunity he gets to approach her is interrupted by someone elbowing in front of him. The crowds are ruthless and oblivious to BARRY whose determination is unstoppable. Finally the woman steps into a booth and BARRY follows –

BARRY

Ms. Jarrett?

MS. JARRETT

Yes?

BARRY

(extending his hand)

I’m Barry Kayden. Remember me? We met

at the Wendell Awards.

MS. JARRETT

We did?

BARRY

Sure. You gave me your card and asked to see

my book.

MS. JARRETT

I did?

BARRY

You said I should find you at the show today …

BARRY sets down his portfolio and begins unbuckling the straps –

MS. JARRETT

What did you say your name was?

BARRY

Barry Kayden. I won this year’s Wendell Couture Prize.

MS. JARRETT

Barry, Connor Thorpe won the Wendell Couture Prize.

I presented it.

BARRY

Now I remember!

MS. JARRETT

Uh-huh. You’re short on memory, but long on looks. Want

to work the runway?

BARRY

No, I’m a Designer … Look …

BARRY offers his book, but a colleague across the booth catches JARRETT’S eye, and she’s off –

CUT TO:

INT. Another Booth – Day

Everything is decorated in black metal; futuristic. Sales Representatives show a line of chic all-white clothing to clients sitting at small Parsons tables. One of those clients, colder-than-ice MARCIA BRANFORD, is paying more attention to what is going on six feet away –

BARRY

Mr. Trastein, the sweater needs a waffled shoulder and extension.

Look, I have a sketch just like that right here…

MR. TRASTEIN

Do I have time for this?

BARRY

Time is profit. I can help you make more.

MR. TRASTEIN

I’ve got a staff of Designers and that sweater is a bestseller.

BARRY

It’ll break records with a waffled shoulder. Come on, just

look at my stuff …

MR. TRASTINE

For the last time … My place or yours?

BARRY

That’s not what I meant!

MR. TRASTINE

Then get to the back of the line, Barry. I got prettier boys

with prettier designs than yours who want my attention.

BARRY

Well, good luck with that.

MR. TRASTINE

(sneering at BARRY’S Portfolio)

Yeah, same to you.

CUT TO:

INT. Yet Another Booth – Day

MARCIA prowls around the elegant displays of cashmere and natural linen, dismissively turning away the advances of eager Sales Reps with a flick of her wrist; as if they were lint on her lapel. Those who persist are given a withering stare, and don’t make the same mistake twice. MARCIA is single-minded about her work. Clearly, nothing and nobody gets in her way. She stealthily circles the MANAGER’S table, and covertly peers around him, intrigued by what might be in BARRY’S book –

MANAGER

These are really good.

BARRY

Thank you.

MANAGER

But what can I do for you? Our market is the Montauk and Malibu

crowd. “From Atlantic to Pacific, their look is specific.”

BARRY

But I can do that too!!

MANAGER

You’ve got a strong style. We’re not for you. More unfortunate

is that you’re not for us.

BARRY

I’ll do some sketches on spec.

MANAGER

You’d be wasting your time and talent on Navy Blue and Beige.

CUT TO:

INT. Still Another Booth – Day

Spot-lit in the center of the floor is a sparkling Lucite case with a uniquely embellished and cleverly proportioned Military Style shirt revolving on display –

BARRY

(angry)

I want payment for the sketch. That was my shirt.

OWNER

I told you I’d pass the sketch on, and I did. Now, beat it.

BARRY

You passed it on, alright. But the idea was mine.

OWNER

Except for the auger on the elbow. That came from a staffer.

BARRY

It’s still my shirt.

OWNER

The staffer works for us, Kayden. That makes it our shirt.

BARRY turns and storms out of the booth. MARCIA drops the Cargo Pants she wasn’t really looking at, and follows him out, almost losing BARRY in the crowd –

INT. Javitz Center Lobby – Day

BARRY is on line at the Coat Check, talking to a few of his friends. MARCIA languidly stands in front of him, eavesdropping on the conversation behind her about the show’s victories, defeats and new contacts to follow up with. Satisfied with what she has heard, MARCIA collects her wrap, which has been left on the counter by a Coat Check Attendant who has moved on to someone else after becoming fed up with waiting for MARCIA’S unforthcoming tip. Now swathed in her fur, MARCIA turns around to BARRY –

MARCIA

I’m Marcia Branford. Here’s my card. Throw away the others.

Make an appointment with my Assistant so I can view your book.

MARCIA turns and leaves a stunned BARRY staring after her –

FRIEND

Really?!? … The Queen of Branford’s Department Stores? Nobody gets

to Marcia Branford!! She makes the Devil wearing Prada seem

like Mother Teresa wearing bunny slippers!

BARRY

(stunned)

I know!!

FRIEND

Let’s go celebrate!

BARRY

I can’t. My shift at the restaurant starts in a half hour. Some

other time?

FRIEND

Sure. Absolutely!

EXT. West 32^nd Street, NYC – Late Night

The sidewalks are deserted and dark. BARRY stops in front of a run-down hulk of a building. After climbing the front steps and fumbling for his keys, he enters the dim vestibule. The walls are covered with linoleum remnants and the ceiling paint hangs in peeling strips. BARRY checks his box for nonexistent mail, then starts up the rickety stairs to his apartment –

INT. Barry’s Apartment – Late Night

BARRY turns on the lights and walks in. The loft space is big, but very sparsely furnished. There is a twin bed against one exposed brick wall and a table with two mis-matched chairs is placed near the battered galley kitchen. Everything is immaculately clean. The single good piece of furniture is a used draftsman’s table facing the lone window. Beside it is a rolling taboret abundant with paper, colored pencils, pastels and paints of every hue and description. Taped onto the wall are designs BARRY has finished or are still a work in progress. The art is full of color and life; each and every piece is a flight of his fancy. Next to the drawing area is an ancient sewing machine, bolts of muslin, both a male and female form as well as a slightly rusted steel tube garment rack. Still in his Waiter uniform, BARRY settles at the draftsman’s table and begins to work –

INT. Cameron Alfstad Offices – Morning

Wearing a head-set and answering phone calls, BARRY is at an enormous wrap-around white marble reception desk which matches the floors and Corinthian columns in the luxurious offices. Through a glass wall etched with the “C.A.” Logo, WE SEE: Several staffers readying the displays in the Showroom, arranging fresh flowers in the Conference Room and DANA, a stunning Brunette Barbie-Look-A-Like, setting a silver tray with croissants and coffee on the white marble desk in Cameron Alfstad’s corner office overlooking Seventh Avenue. The phone is ringing off the hook as CAMERON ALFSTAD steps off the elevator . He is a playfully sardonic, tanned, graying-at-the temples former Zoli Super-Model who never misses the beauty of his reflection in a mirror or the ugliness of a lie that tumbles from someone’s lips –

CAMERON

Don’t bother me with the Voice Mail crap. Any

real messages Barry?

BARRY nods “Yes” and balancing the pile-up of phone traffic, hands CAMERON a stack of call memos. BARRY continues directing the switchboard as CAMERON glances at each slip of paper, deciding to either ‘save’ or ‘toss’. When he’s almost done, a rogue scrap comes to the top of his pile –

CAMERON

(Letting the scrap flutter to BARRY’S lap)

Sketching on the job again, huh?

BARRY shrugs and keeps writing the current call memo. CAMERON secretly smirks and heads for his office as BARRY silently yells ‘Good Morning’ after him –

CAMERON

(looking straight ahead and walking away)

Good Morning to you, too. There’s a showroom booking

in about half an hour. Lois Dixon is in from Dallas to see

the line. She requested you again. God only knows why.

Stop doodling long enough to handle it.

INT. Cameron Alfstad Offices – Day

BARRY walks a confident voluptuous blonde LOIS DIXON, to the elevator where she meets CAMERON’S brilliant white smile as he leaves his office. CAMERON takes her arm and the two go down for lunch. DANA looks up from her spot at the reception desk –

DANA

I follow after God’s Gift to womankind all day. Every day.

It does my Louboutin’s good to see him chase after someone

for a change.

BARRY

(looking at his clip board)

It’s all a part of the business.

DANA

Is she going back to Texas with her big ole bodacious
“boutiques” just a burstin’ full of Alfstad’s “stuff”?

BARRY

Dana, I’m not monitoring from the mirrored ceiling

of Cameron’s sugar shack.

DANA

Good thing. Surveillance equipment with a wide enough

angle for Mr. “Me, Myself and I” hasn’t been invented.

BARRY

Naughty.

DANA

Yup. Anyway, did you make a terrific sale?

BARRY

Yup.

DANA

You’re good in the showroom. Better than I am.

BARRY

Cam’s an easy sell. His things are good.

DANA picks up the scrap of paper from the desk and holds it up –

DANA

So are yours.

BARRY

(laughing)

My “doodling”?

DANA

(handing him the sketch)

That’s what he calls it.

BARRY studies the little drawing –

BARRY

The neckline isn’t right. It would be impossible to get

charmeuse to drape that way.

DANA

It’s a good idea, though.

BARRY

I get ideas all the time.

DANA

So do I … But not ideas like that.

BARRY

You have a good eye.

DANA

Yeah, good enough to know yours is terrific. Cam

knows it too.

BARRY

(smiling)

Cam knows I can work the phones, handle the showroom,

check up on piece goods and …

DANA

… and probably sketch him under the table and take his place.

BARRY

I don’t want his place, Dana. I want to make one of my own.

DANA

I know.

INT. Cameron Alfstad Offices – Early Evening

BARRY sits at his cramped desk tucked away in a spare corner. He’s surrounded by stationary supplies, Xerox paper and excess bolts of fabric. On the desktop are several textile binders and a pile of sample cuttings. He closes the last binder and DANA knocks on the door jamb –

DANA

Hey. I’m calling it a day. Want to run up to the Atlantic Grill

on West 64th? Tyler just landed a big campaign. Bless her, Eileen Ford

was so pissed at those ungrateful Stone Tower Equity bastards,

she personally booked him and the whole gang a table as Thanks

for a job well done. Tyler said you’re invited to the party.

BARRY

Sounds great, but I’ve got more work to do.

DANA

Are you sure? It’s a lot nicer to be waited on than to be a Waiter.

BARRY

... Tell Tyler I said Congratulations.

DANA

Don’t you ever have any fun? It’s all business all the time

with you, isn’t it?

BARRY

No …

DANA

Then it’s about getting business?

BARRY

(shy)

Not really.

DANA

Then what’s the secret? What’s the Rag Trade all about

Kayden?

BARRY

It’s about dreams on hangers, and hanging on to dreams .

INT. Cameron Alfstad Offices – Evening

An empty pizza box pokes from the trash can in BARRY’s work area. As he closes down his computer and files the last invoice, he looks down at his desktop and sees MARCIA BRANFORD’S business card. Grabbing the receiver and his courage, BARRY dials the phone –

BARRY

Hello, this is Barry Kayden. I’d like to make an appointment

with Marcia Branford. Next Friday is fine … One o’clock?

Thank you.

BARRY ends the call, puts the card in his wallet, leans back and closes his eyes –

BARRY

(low)

Here we go …

--- Scene

--- Etc.

*** Please feel free to leave any and all comments in the box below. "Anonymous" as well as "Attributed" feedback is appreciated for "THE KAYDEN COLLECTION" sample, just as it is for the presentations of "COLD LOVE" and "I WANT YOU TO BE MY BABY: THE LILLIAN BRIGGS STORY", also on this web site. Inquiries via the 'Contact Page' (accessed by clicking on the menu bar) or to lee@leeschiller.com will be personally answered and/or forwarded to my Talent Representative accordingly. LJS ---

5 Comments →

Thursday

Sep132012

SLOGGING THROUGH

Author:

Lee Schiller

In purgatory silence

A fool in the snow

Can’t see where to go.

Toward Patience

or Time

or Remember When?

At His cross-roads,

the way so

Glacier slow.

Northern: Drifts of Doubt

Southern: Endless Drought

Eastern: Fields of Pride

Western: Wasted Time

All Kodak-scattered,

Shattered,

Under the tundra of

Yesterday’s Blunder.

Chilly smiles deliver warmth

Perhaps mistaken

Before history morphed.

Spring will come, but for now,

The Dunce, in flake-strewn air

waves crispy gloves to see

a route towards Wherever.

Just, Free.

Watching iPhone-boy,

on your distant side-street in quiet

Don’t Care,

shift the cozy curtain there,

Toss a gesture.

Where.

Just point for Him in falling snow.

Diabolically smart,

You must know ...

Give it over.

Get it over.

Finally,

and be Done.

Just tell the

blinded

fool to

Run.
©

2 Comments →

Thursday

Aug232012

COLD LOVE (Screenplay Sample)

Author:

Lee Schiller

... What tempts the eye, can torment the soul ... The 'Sin Of Pride' has dire consequences and paltry benefits: When Sam Landau's college cuts his Financial Aid, hubris leads him down the dark tunnel of prostitution, and he barely escapes with his life. Or does he?

Registered: WGAw No. 1601158
Austin Film Festival: Winner's Circle Award (Repeat Honor) http://www.austinfilmfestival.com
Feature Film: 119 pp.
Genre: Drama
Legal: Copyrighted ©
Additional: Creative Artists Agency Story Report, By Darrien Robestan http://www.caa.com
Status: AVAILABLE - Inquire via 'Contact' page
Screenplay Sample Reading Time: 13 minutes
Music: COLD LOVE THEME by Federico Vaona at: http://www.federicovaona.com
Graphic/Visual Design: by Samantha Perez at: http://www.artbysamanthaperez.com

_________________________________COLD LOVE__________________________________

FADE IN:

CREDITS ROLL:

FLASHBACK:

INT. Shopping Mall - Day (1996)

Throngs of people push through the atrium past storefronts with "Christmas Sale!!" announcements. Bright lights illuminate motorized mannequins of Santa and his Elves. Giant gift boxes hang from the ceiling wrapped in multi-colored metallics, teenaged girls pull treasures from shopping bags and show off purchases to one another. Nearby there is a pet store with barking puppies, jewelry stores with sparkling diamonds on revolving display, CDs in shiny clear plastic, designer shoes, color televisions, hand painted china, imported crystal, embroidered linens, and everyone shopping to holiday music piped in over hidden speakers. Holding onto his mother's hand, a four year-old SAM LANDAU, bundled up in a snow suit, makes his way through the mall. He is overwhelmed by the spectacle of it all, and though silent, awe shows on his face. Passing a pushcart overflowing with salted nuts, candy and dried fruits, SAM stumbles -

CREDITS END:

SAM

Mom! Mommy!!

MRS. LANDAU

(holding tightly to his hand)

Come on, Sam. I want to get out of here

before I see something I can't live without.

SAM

But Mom, my shoe is untied.

MRS. LANDAU

Sit down over here, and I'll fix it.

MRS. LANDAU leads SAM over to a bench directly opposite from the pushcart, and kneels to tie his shoe. SAM swallows hard as he looks at the nuts under the orange heat lamps-

ANOTHER ANGLE:

From SAM'S P.O.V. WE SEE: his mother working on the laces of his scuffed shoe. Her hair is held back with unmatched barrettes, the vinyl handbag she balances on her lap is worn at the straps and has little wisps of thread pulling from the stitching-

CUT TO:

A little GIRL stops at the pushcart, and yanks on her mother's arm-

GIRL

I'm hungry!

MOTHER

We just had lunch.

GIRL

I want those nuts with the red shells.

MOTHER

We'll get them some other time, now let's go.

GIRL

No! I want them now!

MOTHER

There's no time to stop now, honey. I have a million

things to pick up. Maybe on the way back.

GIRL

(low)

I...want...the...nuts...with...the...red...shells.

MOTHER

(beginning to pull the GIRL along)

I said not right now. Let's go!

GIRL

(screaming and dragging her feet)

I hate you! I HATE YOU!! You never buy me anything

I want! I want, I WANT, I WANT!!! You're not my mother!

I hate you!!

MRS. LANDAU turns away from the scene and back to a wide-eyed SAM-

MRS. LANDAU

(quietly)

Do you want nuts?

SAM

(shaking his head)

No, thank you.

MRS. LANDAU

Are you sure?

SAM

Yes.

MRS. LANDAU

Then we'd better get going.

SAM

How about you Mommy?

MRS. LANDAU

(pulling on her old gloves)

Yeah, I want nuts.

SAM

Me too ...

MRS. LANDAU

I know. Let's go home before we see something else

that we can't live without.

SAM eases off the bench and takes his mother's hand again, following her through the crowd-

ANOTHER ANGLE:

From SAM'S P.O.V. WE SEE: the grown-ups jostling past him as if he wasn't even there, his mother's gloved hand holding on to his mitten, and as he looks back ... The pushcart full of nuts warming under the orange lights-

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. Vallton College - Day (2012)

MUSIC is everywhere and the air is electric. On a field surrounded by Georgian dormitories stands a huge orange and white lawn tent. A banner declaring "Finals Are Over!!" flaps in the breeze. Under the tent, kids dance, laugh and bear hug one another as they arrive at the party. Large kegs of beer cool on ice, and everyone has a plastic cup. Several girls in a shell-red Jaguar convertible drive over the grass towards the crowd. They are greeted by other carefully sun-streaked Debutantes. The prettiest and blondest of them is GALE WALDEN-

GALE

Hi!! It's about time you got here!!

GIRL

(climbing out of the Jaguar)

Where's that nut, Sam? Oooo. I Want Him!!

GALE

Over there getting a tan.

ANOTHER GIRL

He's too special to leave alone.

GALE

(shrugging)

You know Sam.

GIRL

Where's the beer?!?

GALE

Come on, I'll show you where they set it up.

The GIRLS press into the tent, exchanging hellos, and waving to people inside-

ANOTHER ANGLE:

Farther back in the field, kids play old-school frisbee and hackey sack while others cheer them on. Dozens of of students amble across the grass towards the tent in the distance. CAMERA PANS at ground level. WE SEE: A bare foot, hairy legs, a taut stomach and well-muscled chest all glistening with baby oil and sweat. A very tanned, black-haired SAM LANDAU lies on a towel wearing a pair of Vuarnets to shield his blue eyes. He's oblivious to the party going on in the background. Behind SAM, a small, flat-chested girl, JANET GOREY, walks her bicycle across the field. She steals a glance in SAM'S direction and her breath catches as he lazily scratches the inside of his thigh. A stray frisbee lands near him, and he looks up. It's too late for JANET to turn away, he's already returned the frisbee and seen her-

SAM

Hey, Janet!

He runs over to her in his swimsuit. She watches his every move-

SAM

How come you're not over there at the party?

JANET

Why aren't you?

SAM

I feel lost in crowds. Want to stick around and keep

me company?

JANET

Are you alone?

SAM

Gale went to get me a beer.

JANET

No, thanks.

SAM

Aw, come on ... Just a couple of minutes.

JANET

I have a meeting with Mr. Marshall in a little while.

SAM

Yeah? He called me in, too. So what?!? Nothing we

can't handle.

JANET looks over SAM'S shoulder and sees GALE approaching with a beer in each hand-

JANET

Gotta run. They posted campus jobs for next year.

I want to see what I got.

SAM

Hope it's a good one.

JANET

Do you even know what's offered?

SAM

I wouldn't admit it, if I did.

JANET

Why not? I remember the Freshman Mixer when

neither one of us knew which fork to use.

SAM

I bet you still don't.

JANET

You might be surprised.

SAM

So, you see, there's nothing wrong with changing.

JANET

Into what?

JANET swings on to her bicycle and looks back before pedalling off-

JANET

See ya.

SAM

Bye!

SAM walks back to the towel and GALE hands him a beer-

GALE

What did she want?

SAM

She's a good friend, Gale.

GALE

And what am I?

SAM

(kissing her)

Something else.

GALE

Janet's a drudge.

SAM

You hardly know her.

GALE

And I don't want to.

SAM

Because she has no Jaguar, right?

GALE

Don't be so gross. That has nothing to do with anything.

SAM

No?

GALE

I'm with you, aren't I?

SAM

(stung)

Me and Janet both got called in to Mr. Marshall's office

this afternoon.

GALE

(bored)

Mr. Finacial Aid himself. It's nothing you can't handle.

SAM

That's exactly what I told Janet.

GALE

So why even bring it up?

SAM

I thought you might be interested.

GALE

Well, I'm not.

GALE looks across the field as her friends pile back into the convertible and drive towards them-

GALE

Roll over, you need more oil.

SAM

No, I don't.

GALE

Hurry up!

The car rolls by, and the everyone waves. The GIRL honks the horn-

GIRL

Am I jealous!

GALE

(waving an oily hand)

You should be!

INT. Vallton College Bookstore - Day

A line for the cashiers winds through the store. Everywhere people are picking up last minute items with fervor. Conversation has reached a roar as friends exchange plans for the summer on the lake, at the yacht club, up in the country or away along the beach. SAM and GALE move up to the CASHIER at the register. GALE puts down a pile of shirts, shorts and sweaters with the Vallton insignia; SAM holds on to his one T-shirt-

CASHIER

Are you two separate, or together?

SAM

Separate.

GALE

Is that all you're getting? Let me pay for it.

The CASHIER looks away-

SAM

(softly)

No, that's OK.

GALE

(grabbing the T-shirt)

Ugh! It'll be faster. Besides, I like buying you presents.

GALE takes out a charge card and throws it at the counter towards the CASHIER-

GALE

We're in a hurry. Thanks.

INT. Vallton Main Building - Day

SAM walks slowly through the lobby, watching a STUDENT on the Maintenance Crew polish the beautiful antique furniture. There is a shriek of laughter and SAM turns around. A football ATHLETE wearing an expensive suede jacket, now ruined with grass marks and mud stains, walks in with his buddies-

ATHLETE

Hey, watch this lay-up shot!

The ATHLETE takes the plastic cup of beer he's holding and aims it for a wastebasket across the room; it bounces on the rim of the can. Beer splatters all over the wall and a mahogany table. The STUDENT watches silently as the wallpaper darkens, then wipes beads of golden liquid from the wood, never even looking up. SAM turns away-

INT. Vallton Student Services Office - Day

Several kids sit in the waiting room. One reads a Kindle and another listens to an iPod, while the rest try nervously not to recognize each other. A sweet-faced old SECRETARY works at her desk in the far corner of the room. The intercom buzzes and she looks up-

SECRETARY

Sam Landau ...

SAM gets up and walks over to her-

SAM

I'm Landau.

SECRETARY

Mr. Marshall will see you now. Go right in.

SAM opens the door to the inner office and enters-

INT. Mr. Marshall's Office - Day

The late Spring sunshine beams through the french doors. A balding MR. MARSHALL, leans over his desk to shake SAM'S hand-

SAM

Hi. You wanted to see me?

MR. MARSHALL

Have a seat.

SAM sits in an armchair facing the desk-

SAM

This isn't about grades?

MR. MARSHALL

No, your GPA is still right up there.

SAM

(smiling)

Checked up on me, huh?

MR. MARSHALL

As a matter of fact, I did. You've fulfilled our scholarship

very well.

SAM

Thanks.

MR. MARSHALL

(looking out the window)

Unfortunately, that's no longer enough.

SAM

What?

MR. MARSHALL

(reciting his speech)

Financial contributions to the college have been

drastically reduced. It's the way of the

world. Our Trustees thought they could raise more

money to offset rising costs than came through. Fifty

percent of the pledges from Alumni and Sponsors were

ultimately rescinded.

SAM

Well, I don't need a Book Loan for Senior Year.

MR. MARSHALL

Good. They've been axed from the budget.

SAM

Huh?

MR. MARSHALL

Sam, this department's funding is the first to go in an

austerity crunch. Book Loans are the least of it. I'm

afraid your Finacial Aid has been cut by half, in keeping

with the reduction in revenue.

SAM

You're dropping me?!!

MR. MARSHALL

No ...

SAM

That's the same as expulsion! I can't pick up all that

tuition!

MR. MARSHALL

How about a campus job? I'll offer you one again.

SAM

You mean like tutoring, or something?

MR. MARSHALL

No, those are priority placements, reserved for students

who have worked before. You know how the system

operates.

MR. MARSHALL turns to a heavily dog-eared list on his desk top-

MR. MARSHALL

The introductory jobs we have left are Landscape Crew,

Facilities Maintenance and Book Store Duty.

SAM

Everyone sees who does those jobs.

MR. MARSHALL

It's no disgrace to have a job. Any job. Actually,

I think it's something of a disgrace not to have one.

Frankly, I'm surprised that you've gone so long

without working ... Or that you'd feel good about

that. Most kids are proud to support their education.

SAM

Yeah, while people talk behind their backs. You've

heard the names.

MR. MARSHALL

The ones that come to mind are ... Independent ...

Determined ... Industrious ...

SAM

Try ... Student Sponge ... Vallton Vagabond ...

MR. MARSHALL

Look, you need this job to make it to Graduation,

although you'd like to pretend otherwise.

SAM

I don't pretend anything!!

MR. MARSHALL

You think you're better than the next guy? That breaking

a sweat is beneath your dignity? It'll do you good to endure

some heavy lifting for a change.

SAM

(low)

You're trying to teach me a lesson ...

MR. MARSHALL

I'm trying to keep you here until diplomas are given.

Think whatever you want. The bottom line is money.

And you haven't got it. There's a chance right now,

on this list, for you to earn a salary.

SAM

There are other ways.

MR. MARSHALL

I can't think of any.

SAM

Then I'll have to.

MR. MARSHALL

Well, I really hope you come up with something.

No doubt you'll be very good at whatever you choose

to do. But I won't hold a job open for you, Sam.

If you walk away now, that's it.

SAM

(getting up)

See you in the Fall.

INT. Vallton Main Building - Day

SAM closes the Student Services door, and starts down the deserted hallway. He slows at a bank of leaded glass windows and looks out over the campus-

ANOTHER ANGLE:

Through the windows WE SEE: Vallton students meandering along the paths that cross the lush grounds. Their bright clothing forms a kaleidoscope of activity as they leisurely laugh and joke with one another or gently cruise the satin sidewalks on mountain bikes built for Kilimanjaro. On the lawn, kids lug their Heineken supply from one group of picnicking friends to the next-

DISSOLVE TO:

FLASHBACK:

INT. Sam's House - Night (1996)

SAM stands on tip toes looking through a leaded window at the top of the stairs, enthralled by a raggedy troupe of neighborhood children, dressed up in home-made felt and construction paper Halloween costumes. He watches them pass by in the shadows below, then tears off to his room and slams the door-

INT. Sam's House - Night (1996)

Sam runs into the living room in a 'cape' made from a pinned together Hefty bag, and an aluminum foil 'crown'. MR. LANDAU is reading a magazine, while WE SEE: MRS. LANDAU preparing dinner in the kitchen-

SAM

(excited)

Daddy!! Look at me!!

MR. LANDAU

What's all that?

SAM

I'm a Prince! Outside, there's a bunch of Knights and

Wizards that are gonna take me to my castle!

MR. LANDAU

(turning back to his reading)

Take that stuff off, and smooth out the tin foil before

putting it back where you found it. Don't cut any

more pieces off the roll, either. It's not a toy.

SAM

But I wanna Trick or Treat ...

MR. LANDAU

I said, take it off! The other kids'll see and call you

a freak.

SAM

(softly)

No, they're in my Kingdom ...

MRS. LANDAU walks in from the kitchen wiping her hands on her apron-

MRS. LANDAU

It's Halloween. He's just pretending.

MR. LANDAU

There's nothing wrong with what he is. You stop

putting ideas into his head!

MRS. LANDAU

He needs a costume! The ones at the Five and Dime ...

MR. LANDAU

... Are a waste of money, like I told you. Besides, no

son of mine is gonna go door to door for handouts!

SAM

But, Daddy ...

MR. LANDAU

I said, TAKE THAT STUPID STUFF OFF, or I'll do it for you!!

You're my son, and better do what I tell you!!

MRS. LANDAU

He's mine too! I say, it's alright for him to dream, even

if you've stopped!!

MR. LANDAU

(moving towards SAM)

I'm telling you for the last time ...

SAM slowly takes off his 'crown' and climbs back up the stairs. From the living room WE HEAR: voices rising-

MR. LANDAU (V.O)

Why the hell can't you keep your mouth shut in front

of the boy?! I know what's best, and all you do is

coddle and spoil him!!

MRS. LANDAU (V.O.)

You just don't want him to go out because there's

nothing here to give the other kids!! We have to keep

the shades down and porch light out, on Halloween,

for God's sake! How does it feel to take your shame

out on a little boy?!?

There is a loud CRASH as MR. LANDAU slams out of the house-

INT. Sam's House, Bedroom - Night (1996)

The door opens slowly and MRS. LANDAU crosses to SAM'S bed and sits right near him-

MRS. LANDAU

(reaching out to SAM)

You're going to have everything someday. Everything

you want. And I'll be so proud and happy for you when

you get it ...

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. Vallton Field House Locker Room - Day

SAM sits on a bench in his swimsuit, staring idly at the blank wall. Another BOY sits right near him, and gives SAM a nudge-

BOY

Hey, you alright?

SAM

Me? Oh ... Yeah. Fine.

INT. Vallton Field House - Day

SAM pushes through the locker room doors and walks out onto the pool area. From the upper level observation deck, GALE peers over the balcony at him. CAMERA PULLS BACK and WE SEE: GALE is sitting in tennis clothes with an elegant red-headed friend, PATTY-

GALE

Hey, look! There's Sam!

PATTY

He's hot enough to die for! Must be hard to hold on to him.

GALE

Nah, you just have to know where to grab.

SAM throws his towel at the bleachers and pulls on a pair of goggles. A fast, hard dive and he's in the water-

PATTY

I do. And if I got started, I wouldn't stop.

GALE

Want a broken neck, Patty?

PATTY

It'd be worth it.

The two girls see that SAM easily swims the length of the pool, then doubles back for another lap. A young COACH observes from the sidelines, tugging at the faculty ID on a lanyard around his neck, gazing all the while at SAM-

INT. Vallton Field House Locker Room Showers - Day

Steam clouds the tiled room as SAM washes up with several other BOYS. The COACH passes the open door and calls in-

COACH

Landau ... I want to see you in my office.

SAM

(over his shoulder)

Be right there.

INT. Vallton Field House Coaching Office - DAY

SAM

What's up, Coach?

COACH

Why don't you tell me, Sam? What was going on out

there today?

SAM

Just doing my laps ...

COACH

You were killing the water with every stroke.

SAM

This wasn't a Meet.

COACH

Is something bugging you?

SAM

(turning to go)

Nope.

COACH

Hey, you can talk to me. I've been here for you all

year. Come on.

SAM

Well ... I don't know.

COACH

Give me a try.

SAM

... I found out today ... That my Financial Aid was cut.

COACH

You're on Aid? I never would have guessed that you

needed it.

SAM

Yeah, but I do need it.

COACH

I did too, when I was in school. They're trimming off

a lot, I hear.

SAM

Mine was cut in half. I was counting on that money.

Now I have to find a way to raise a lotta cash.

COACH

I think you know I've been watching you all semester.

You've got a great ... form.

SAM

(edgy)

Maybe we ought to just drop that. It's not really ...

COACH

Of course, I'm just talking about your performance in

the pool, so don't get the wrong idea. But Sam, some

friends I made a long time ago, own a resort on The

East End. They're always looking for guys like you to

be ... Fitness Instructors.

The COACH reaches into the top drawer of his desk, and hands SAM a sheaf of papers-

SAM

(taking the application)

Meaning?

COACH

That if you send this in, along with my recommendation ...

You've got yourself a very sweet summer job.

SAM

Just like that?

COACH

Guaranteed. Every year I send them a guy or two.

If it works out, I get a little bonus. There's plenty

of money in it for everyone involved.

SAM

Money in fitness, huh?

COACH

If you play your cards right, the summer should take

care of your tuition and the some. Send in the forms.

You'll see what I mean. You're just the type they're

looking for.

SAM

Thanks.

COACH

Have fun. I know you will.

SAM turns and walks back to the Locker Room-

INT. Vallton Field House Corridor - Day

GALE sits alone on the steps across from the Men's Locker Room. A couple stop at the water fountain, then move down the hall. SAM comes out, stuffing the application forms into an envelope-

SAM

Hi. What are you doing here?

GALE

After tennis practice, I saw you at the pool. Just thought

I'd wait around.

SAM

How come?

GALE

Duh. So we can walk back to your room together.

SAM

Actually, I was heading over to The Post Office.

GALE

(kissing him, and taking his arm)

Besides, I want to shower off.

SAM

I already showered.

GALE

But I haven't.

SAM

They close at three o'clock today, Gale.

GALE

Then you'll have to go tomorrow.

INT. Mellner Hall Bathroom - Day

The shower is going full blast. Thrown over the stall door are GALE'S tennis clothes and a big fluffy monogrammed bath sheet-

ANOTHER ANGLE:

Int. Mellner Hall Shower - Day

GALE tilts her head back as SAM shoves her up against the wet wall under the shower nozzle. The curl of her blonde hair goes straight, as hot water cascades over her face and shoulders. SAM envelops her in his arms and she buries her face in his chest-

CUT TO:

GALE is slowly soaping SAM'S back. She runs her hands along his neck and down the thick rope of muscles in his arms-

CUT TO:

CLOSE UP: of SAM as GALE'S hands come from behind to soap his chest, gently rubbing, then twisting his nipples-

CUT TO:

SAM turns around, kissing and biting at GALE'S neck. She searches for his lips while running the bar of soap along the back of his hairy thighs-

CUT TO:

SAM takes the soap and slips it between GALE's breasts, gently massaging them together as the lather foams up and out of her cleavage-

INT. Sam's Dorm Room - Day

SAM lies sprawled in bed on his back. An old quilt covers everything but his feet. He moans softly and throws his head back against the pillow, the veins in his neck throbbing. GALE emerges from between his ankles, and he closes his eyes. She kisses his ear, his forehead and finally his mouth-

INT. Vallton Commons Cafeteria - Night

The cafeteria is jammed with people caught in the dinnertime rush. SAM stands on the service line alone. PATTY and her friend BRONWYN, a delicate girl with a pixie-cut and pearls, watch SAM from the salad bar-

PATTY

I don't see Gale anywhere. Should we invite him to

have dinner with us?

BRONWYN

Patty, I hardly think so.

PATTY

Oh, she wouldn't mind.

BRONWYN

But I would. If Gale Walden had half a brain, she'd

stop slumming around with him.

PATTY

Why should she? Her parents won't find out, and

he's sex-in-sneakers.

BRONWYN

Yeah, with the laces untied. Will you pass the

Roquefort, please?

INT. Vallton Commons Dining Room - Night

SAM leaves the service area with his tray and wanders into the dining room looking for a table. Kids sit with coffee or a cigarette, angling to see or be seen. The social butterflies table-hop, hoping that their conspicuous chatter will attract attention from those talking on iPhones or sending text messages. JANET sits at a table for two. Her friend, MARTHA, is a plump brunette with a hole in the elbow of her Fair Isle crew neck and eyes that dart around the room while she talks-

JANET

Oh, there's Sam!

MARTHA

Will you get a load of the monogram on his shirt? If

that social-climber truly forgets who he is, at least he can

look at his laundry and figure out his name.

JANET

Martha!! It looks like he's flying solo. Let's make some

room.

JANET watches as SAM glides slowly past a table of Preps, hoping they'll ask him to sit down in one of the empty chairs. They barely look up from their meal. Finally, SAM settles by himself, and begins to take the food off of his tray, limiting his field of vision to the table top-

MARTHA

Serves him right.

JANET

What did he ever do to you?! Nothing.

MARTHA looks down and begins to speak, then stops. She starts to play with the salad left in her bowl, spearing a tomato wedge. JANET looks right past her and gets up from the table-

JANET

(lifting her tray)

You're using the wrong fork.

JANET walks across the Commons and puts her tray down on SAM'S table. He looks up, surprised, and flashes a brilliant smile-

JANET

Why didn't you come sit with us?

SAM

You were with Martha.

JANET

So?

SAM

You don't like Gale, I don't like Martha.

JANET

She says you're a social-climber. Is that why?

SAM

(the devil in his eyes)

... And I'm kicking out the rungs as I go up the ladder ...

In for a big fall when I have to retreat and there's no

way down ...

JANET

There's always a way down.

SAM

"The Voice of Doom".

JANET

Doesn't it bother you?

SAM

That Martha has a big mouth?

JANET

That there's truth to what she says!!

SAM

Nah. It would piss me off if she lied about me, though.

JANET

(amazed)

Your head is as big as all outdoors. Your confidence

is really just arrogance ... You're taking on an eight-

figure Debutante with a double-digit bank balance, and ...

SAM

There's more?

JANET

And, you're too handsome for your own good.

SAM

So, why hang out with such a monster?

JANET

Because underneath all that phoney baloney, there's

a fighter who wants more than he's got.

SAM

Is greed an admirable trait?

JANET

Ambition is.

SAM

Aren't they one in the same?

JANET

No, they're not. Sam, why don't you take the job

Marshall has? It's not too late.

SAM

(directly)

It would be failure. For you, it's a victory to stand up

in front of everyone ... But I won't do it.

JANET

Are you being proud, or a jerk?

SAM

Maybe both. But I'm getting what I want.

Thought you might be proud and happy for

me.

JANET

You must be joking! Gale's got you right where

she wants you. But a closet full of fancy shirts

aren't worth your self-respect.

SAM

Come off it!! Everyone compromises! Every day! Every

minute! Every way! What do you think your precious

campus job is, for instance? Are you gonna tell me

you love it?

JANET

I'm going to tell you, and anyone else who asks,

that I need it. That's the truth. And there's no shame

in it.

SAM

For you.

JANET

For anyone! Why won't you just see it that way too?

SAM

I don't have to.

JANET

I think you do.

SAM

Look, I belong here. I've never felt like that anywhere

before. You think it's just about monogrammed

shirts and knowing what to order when I go out

with Gale?

JANET

Along with a shit-load of other pretentious garbage!

SAM

Then you don't get it. It's about being someone else.

Maybe I faked my way. But I'm not going backwards.

And I'm sure as hell not going to be some pathetic

chartity case getting hand-outs that everyone gawks

at.

JANET

Is that what you think I am?

SAM

That's how I think I would feel. Now, I fit in

with the best of them. And yeah, it's better for me,

Janet. If you don't like it, or it rubs that jealous

bitch Martha, the wrong way ... TOUGH SHIT!!

JANET

(standing)

I'm going to get coffee. Will you still be mad when

I get back?

SAM

Only if you don't bring me back one too, with milk

and sugar.

JANET

Coming up. But, Sam ...

SAM

What?

JANET

I think your priorities are all wrong.

SAM

(shrugging)

We disagree ... But I still like you.

JANET

Oh, sure. Who else talks to you the way I do?

SAM

Nobody.

JANET

See you in a minute.

--- Scene

--- Etc.

--- Please feel free to leave any and all comments in the box below. "Anonymous" as well as "Attributed" feedback is appreciated for the "COLD LOVE" sample, just as it is for the presentation of "I WANT YOU TO BE MY BABY: THE LILLIAN BRIGGS STORY", also on this web site. Inquiries via the 'Contact Page' (accessed by clicking on the menu bar) or to lee@leeschiller.com will be personally answered and/or forwarded to my Talent Representative accordingly. LJS ---

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Wednesday

Mar142012

THE CROW AND THE MACAW

Author:

Lee Schiller

Scarlett sat on the back lawn, facing away from the house, leaning against the big old Magnolia tree. It was one of her favorite hiding places at Tara. Pretty soon, Mammy would be screaming her head off wondering where she had run to. Scarlett savored telling Mammy that she was a fool to shout so loud, since she'd been right under her nose the whole time. Scarlett liked the ability she had to turn things to her own advantage. She fancied it quite clever. But right now, the big barbeque at Twelve Oaks later that afternoon, was what she'd gone off to think about. Scarlett had a major crush on Ashley Wilkes, and wanted to secure his affections.

Perhaps seeking some dating advice was in order. Scarlett stared up at the Georgia sky, and concentrated as hard as she could on who she might call upon. This thinking business was hard for her. She believed it was difficult for her to stay focused because her tiny curvaceous waist was corseted so tightly, that it cut off the thoughts to her head. Of course the real reason was that there was only so much room in her head to begin with. Even if it benefitted her, putting a plan into action was just across the county line of Scarlett's intellectual capacity.

She pulled out a cell phone from the ribbon waistband of her dress and set it on the grass. Maybe she should ring Elizabeth Taylor, out in California? Liz had a great many husbands; one of them twice! That would be a technique Scarlett would like to learn. Moreover, she felt that although much plainer, Taylor was fortunate to share some physical resemblance. It was getting hot outside, and her mind began to drift toward the lovely sensation of ice cream melting on her tongue. Vanilla was her favorite. Fiddle-Dee-Dee, she would think about calling Elizabeth Taylor tomorrow. She got up, intent on sending Mammy to the cow shed for milking, then to fetch some ice and start her brown hands churning right away.

None of this escaped the shiny black crow, who was observing that idiot Scarlett, from his favorite hiding place in the big old Magnolia tree. He always chose the highest branch, facing toward Twelve Oaks. Over the farthest ridge, he could just make out the drawing room window. In leaded glass sunshine, the macaw and elaborate white cage had been placed for all the visitors to admire, more as interior decoration than as a member of the Wilkes family.

The crow had met the macaw a long time back, in the course of carrying out his rountine tasks. He was a busy bird, and kept to a hectic schedule. There was the daily agenda of diving at Mammy's head, leaving muddy footprints where fresh sheets draped over the laundry line, stealing sparkly house keys, chasing those prissy mice into the cornfields and air patrol of the surrounding plantations.

It was natural then, that the crow caught sight of the macaw when he was freshly ensconced at Twelve Oaks. The crow had been on a mission to leave his calling card on a newly polished buggy being brought around to the Porte Cochere. But there would be other days, and other buggies. Instead, the crow landed on the drawing room window sill to introduce himself to this new neighbor. And it was a good thing that he did! The macaw was already getting pretty distraught over the lack of appreciation that was doled out to a room adornment. There were quite a few things to get off the chest. And over time, the crow could not help admiring what a chest it was! While the crow was a handsome enough fellow to get attention in certain circles, the macaw was spectacular. Brightly colored feathers, a fine straight beak and really great feet.

Now, the crow had always been the solitary sort. He liked affecting others, but others did not affect him. As the years slipped by sitting on the window sill with the macaw just inside the house, a shift happened inside of him. "HHhhhhmmm ... Nesting?"

At first the crow sought the company of a starling here and a robin there. Anyone who had seen that crow passing time perched on the barn's weathervane with those birds would have known nothing was going to come of it. The crow wouldn't let any of them get close enough to ruffle his feathers. For, he was thinking about the macaw constantly. No other could compare. And it amazed him, based on the secrets shared, that the macaw was even more beautiful on the inside.

The crow did a lot of listening on the window sill, but not much talking. Speaking was as hard for him, as thinking was for Scarlett. And as was bound to happen with such a silently dedicated, industrious worker as the crow, his service territory increased. In the completely opposite direction of Twelve Oaks. By then, the macaw seemed in a really good head-space and was clicking and cooing about a songbird who was God's gift. When the crow heard about that songbird he thought, "I'm glad for you, and sorry for me." When the macaw learned of the crow's new job promotion he said, "I'm glad for you, and sorry for me."

Months and months dragged by. Seasons changed and changed back again. The Civil War was coming, even a moron knew that. Scarlett, who had gotten prettier and prettier and meaner and more selfish than ever, was completely oblivious to the impending war. Big surprise. She didn't even think about it. But, way up high in the big old Magnolia tree the crow was thinking plenty. And missing the macaw. His favorite branch had no bark left from the crow's hours thinking and scratching away with sharp claws and a heavy heart. After a very long time, he began a preening program to gloss up his feathers for when the waiting period on a decision about what to do would ultimately come to an end.

Then the waiting was over, and Scarlett had a yen for ice cream. It was that day, when the flibberty-gibbett left her cell phone on the grass in the single minded pursuit of instant gratification, even if she had to beat Mammy over the head for it, that the crow made his move. He swooped down in dive bomber fashion and snatched the cell phone in his strong beak. He flew and flew. Pumping his wings as fast as he could to make a hasty get-away, lest that bossy little bitch should call for a field hand to blast him full of lead and get her phone back.

The crow finally landed on the crest of the golden arches at the McDonald's in downtown Chicapee. What to say after all this time? The crow pondered and practiced. He'd been waiting for this chance that had finally come. He'd risked. He'd hoped. He dialed!! He got voicemail and left, what turned out to be in retrospect, a very awkward message. He got no call back.

So that crazy crow tried again, many times in fact. He thought the voicemails he left had smoothed out, but if you'd heard them ... Not so much. He tried to apologize for the rift, to inquire, to share what he could without coming across as too desperate. His heart was always racing fast when he was being recorded, and it is hard to collect your wits when that happens. And, he never got a call back.

With nothing else to do, the crow went back to what he knew. Solitary waiting and listening to what the winds had to say about how the macaw was making out in life. But the winds were fickle, and restless, just like in that Patsy Cline song. And the crow, sick of the wandering winds, decided to leave the lonely shelter of the big old Magnolia tree and fly over to where he'd heard the macaw was now working.

It just so happens that Scarlett was in town that day. Mammy was with her. That was a pain in the neck for Scarlett, because it meant she couldn't snub that goody-two-shoes, Melanie Wilkes, if she saw her in public. Mammy would blab it all over. But that mealy-mouthed varmint Melanie, had somehow captured the attention of Ashley Wilkes and Scarlett was furious.

Mammy was sticking like glue, because the war had brought all kinds of riff-raff to the South. Men who wouldn't know a lady if one spit in their eye. And Mammy intended to protect Scarlett by doing a lot more than spitting, even if it landed her in jail ... Or on the auction block.

Going over her options, with the baggage of Mammy trailing along after her, Scarlett stopped to take a gander at her gorgeous reflection in the plate glass window of a shop, and pinch her cheeks for color. And she couldn't believe what happened next.

A big black crow walked into the shop on his boney little legs. He circled the joint until the macaw was done waiting on a customer. Then, obliterating any chance of a conversation, Scarlett saw the macaw run into a back storage room, and the crow walked out right past her. Bold as brass. Mammy had missed the whole thing. She had been looking down at her foot, and quietly trying to work it out from under Scarlett's pointy stiletto. And then the crow marched right back into the store! There was a brief exchange when the macaw came out of hiding and saw the crow. Forced smiles. Clipped sentences. Eyes averted to the floor. And then the crow left a final time.

Because of what she'd just seen, Scarlett understood a lot. Crows don't walk very well. Not that it mattered much. Actually, they walked like ducks. And that made her want to head for the grocery store and order a duck to be delivered to Tara for dinner right away.

Mammy finally understood why throughout the day, and into every night, she'd heard that crow calling, "m'caw! M'Caw!! M'CAW!!" from the big old Magnolia tree out back. That mattered a great deal to her because it finally made sense of some things. She was seeing love of a different kind. The crow certainly looked as though he'd come a courtin' to her. Those two birds made an odd couple, for sure. One being as black as she, and the other so vivid and bright. But they were The Lord's creatures just as she was. Maybe someday after the war was over, she would have the freedom to do as she pleased and they would have the freedom to marry whom they pleased. That would be fittin'.

And as the crow took to the sky, he understood nothing of why the connection between he and the macaw had died, he understood nothing of how time marches love away, and nothing about words unspoken. But he knew that all of it mattered.

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Tuesday

Nov012011

I WANT YOU TO BE MY BABY: THE LILLIAN BRIGGS STORY (Screenplay Sample)

Author:

Lee Schiller

The true story of Lillian Briggs, the very first "Queen of Rock & Roll" and how she fought for and achieved The American Dream ... Twice.

I WANT YOU TO BE MY BABY: The Lillian Briggs Story
-Screenplay Presentation Videos -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9xUgktg9q4
And
http://vimeo.com/116459514
Registered: WGAw No. 1572559
Austin Film Festival: Winner's Circle Award - http://www.austinfilmfestival.com
Feature Film: 129 pp.
Genre: Musical/Bio/Drama
Additional: Wm. Morris Agency Story Report, By Daniel B. Sweeney - http://www.wma.com
Status: AVAILABLE - Inquire via 'Contact' page
The Miracle Of Love/Lillian's Theme by Federico Vaona - http://www.federicovaona.com
Graphic/Visual Design: by Samantha Perez at: http://www.artbysamanthaperez.com
LILLIAN BRIGGS: Info, Lyrics, Photos, Music + More - http://pl.ayli.st/Lillian+Briggs
Feel free to browse a few of Lillian's scrapbook photos by using the end-of-screenplay links and visit the Lillian Briggs Page on Facebook. - https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lillian-Briggs/112526965428581

LILLIAN BRIGGS INTERACTIVE LINK:

http://www.mashpedia.com/Lillian_Briggs

LILLIAN BRIGGS BIO LINK:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lillian_Briggs

LILLIAN BRIGGS YOUTUBE CHANNEL:

http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuYc7zghmGrepbn6SIsEtJg/videos

(Additional information: http://www.google.com)

"THE TONIGHT SHOW" (1955) Lillian Briggs Host: Steve Allen - First TV Appearance VIDEO LINK:

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=156762581102557&l=251792390719852763 (VIDEO)

"WHAT'S MY LINE?" (3-21-65) Lillian Briggs - First Mystery Guest Star Panel:Carol Channing,Arlene Francis,Alan King VIDEO LINK:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?x-yt-ts=1421914688&x-yt-cl=84503534&v=-X6n1SLLo64 (VIDEO)

Lillian Briggs - "I WANT YOU TO BE MY BABY" - MUSIC VIDEO LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWxOMEhkVI0

Lillian Briggs - "COME HERE" - MUSIC VIDEO LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8VIyAbntAs

(Additional Lillian Briggs Music Videos: http://www.youtube.com and http://www.dailymotion.com)

I WANT YOU TO BE MY BABY

FADE IN:

CREDITS ROLL:

EXT. Rural Pennsylvania - Day (1952)

AERIAL SHOT as CAMERA searches the steely gray sky. Rain clouds hang heavy. The trees below are bare, leaving no color on the horizon. Dotting the bleak countryside are small farms, their fields reflecting the overpowering grayness everywhere. The landscape is unrelentingly oppressive and lifeless. Then, CAMERA ZOOMS IN on a small back road -

EXT. Pennsylvania Back Road - Day

A large truck with 'Hudsco Cleaners' lettered across the sides, roars around a corner. It splashes through puddles and sends the dead wet leaves flying into the air from the pavement -

ANOTHER ANGLE:

Travelling at break-neck speed, the truck veers off onto a dirt road leading to a new low-income housing development. The truck fishtails and skids wildly as it hits a mudslick. The brakes lock and the truck plunges head-on into a mudhole stretching across the road, and comes to a violent stop. Steam hisses. With the truck barely still, mud begins oozing up into the fender wells and towards the cab as it sinks faster and faster -

GOD-LIKE VOICE (O.S.)

Jump! JUMP!

ANOTHER ANGLE:

High on a telephone pole, a receiver in his hand, a telephone REPAIRMAN watches as the uniformed DRIVER splashes hip-deep into the mudhole. The truck continues sinking -

REPAIRMAN

(laughing)

Hey, fella! Every cowboy gets thrown

once in a while, huh?!

The DRIVER, wading to high ground looks up -

DRIVER

Don't just hold the phone! Call my boss

and tell him to send out a wrecker for

Lillian Briggs!!

The REPAIRMAN looks at the feisty dark-haired young woman and dials -

CREDITS END:

EXT. Hudsco Cleaners Parking Lot - Day

LILLIAN climbs down from the wrecker as the mechanic unhooks her truck. Her face is dirty and her white uniform is caked with mud. She walks toward the garage, where three drivers, HANK, JOHN and PHIL, stand smoking -

PHIL

(looking her over)

Hey, Lil! Run into a little trouble?

HANK

Looks like she ran into more than that!

PHIL

Did you chip any finger nails?

JOHN

I thought you were supposed to bring in dirty

laundry, not wear it back to the shop!

The three men dissolve into laughter -

LILLIAN

(standing straight)

I bring in more than you three guys combined.

HANK

Today you broke the record, that's for sure!

LILLIAN walks past them and into the garage -

JOHN

(calling after her)

Send a postcard from the unemployment line!

INT. Hudsco's Office - Day

HUDSCO, his face beet red, strains from behind his desk as LILLIAN stands in front of him -

HUDSCO

That's the third one of my trucks you've destroyed

so far!

LILLIAN

I told you the last time, when the roof caved in,

that it wasn't my fault!

HUDSCO

Not your fault!? The truck drove itself under a

tree whose branches were heavy with snow?

LILLIAN

Okay, I didn't account for the snow.... But when

the tire blew out the time before that, I did

everything by the book. Just like you taught me.

HUDSCO

No Shit?!!

LILLIAN

I stopped the truck, didn't I?

HUDSCO

Yeah. On it's side. In a ditch. And right on top

of Mr. Pickson's compost heap!

LILLIAN

He still gave me his laundry order though!

HUDSCO

I must have been crazy to hire a girl for this job!

LILLIAN

I'm doing as well as any MAN!

HUDSCO

I ought to fire you.....

LILLIAN

(softly)

I didn't mean to shout, Mr. Hudsco.

HUDSCO

.....But even with the towing, repairs and

re-laundering all the clothes, you're still the best

driver I've got.

LILLIAN

Huh?

HUDSCO

You've got guts, kid.

LILLIAN

Yeah! Don't forget the part about me getting

bit on the ass by four separate dogs, Mr. Hudsco...

HUDSCO

(heating up again)

The last GUY to make your run, got bitten SIX

times and never put a scratch on one of my

TRUCKS!! Now, shake what's left of that ass

of yours out there tomorrow, and drum up

more business!

LILLIAN

Yes, sir, Mr. Hudsco!

HUDSCO

(motioning to the door)

Out.

LILLIAN

You weren't gonna fire me. Were you?

HUDSCO

Out! OUT!! OUT!!!

INT. Diner - Morning

LILLIAN walks into the Diner, spotless in a new white uniform. She strides up to a group of drivers at the counter, all eating hot dogs. Among them are HANK, JOHN and PHIL -

JOHN

Didn't see your truck in the garage this

morning, Lil.

LILLIAN

That's right. I had it out.

PHIL

I guess Hudsco let you have it pretty good

yesterday, huh?!

HANK

Put you on suspension without pay?

A WAITRESS walks up to the counter, and rolling her eyes at the men, takes out her pad -

WAITRESS

Morning, Lil. What'll you have?

LILLIAN

Coffee and a sweet roll.

JOHN

Whatsa matter? Got a weak stomach from

yesterday?

LILLIAN

....Make that a hot dog, extra spicy chile, with

onions and mustard....and a cuppa coffee.

WAITRESS

(smiling)

Comin' up.

(to the cook)

Tube steak on a bun, heavy blood and guts,

ground-ball and a squirt!

(Winking at LILLIAN)

Enjoy your breakfast.

The WAITRESS goes for the coffee -

JOHN

So where'd you sneak off to this morning?

LILLIAN

Back to the new development.

The WAITRESS serves LILLIAN'S order -

HANK

(stifling a laugh)

You forget something in the mud?

LILLIAN

(wolfing down the hot dog)

Yeah. To open the territory. I got the whole

development. Exclusive.

The men are silent. They look from one to another -

PHIL

Nice going, Lil.

JOHN

Yeah. Good work.

PHIL

Tiger Lil strikes again.....You don't ever give up.

LILLIAN

Nope.

HANK

Lemme buy you another hot dog!

PHIL

Hey! Another chile dog for Lil!

LILLIAN

No, thanks guys.

JOHN

It's on us!

LILLIAN

(getting up)

Nah. I'm full. Maybe tomorrow morning, huh?

I gotta go. Don't want to be late for my regulars.

LILLIAN slips her money onto the counter and leaves -

EXT. Diner Parking Lot - Morning

LILLIAN stands at the back of her truck, out of sight of the Diner, vomiting her breakfast into the bushes. She takes out a breath spray and gives her mouth a shot, then climbs behind the wheel -

LILLIAN

(to herself)

Ugh! What a gross way to start the morning!

Those guys are nuts. Whatever happened to

Wheaties?

INT. Allentown Pool Hall - Night

The room is blue with cigarette smoke. Several trampy girls hang on the arms of small-time lotharios at the bar, bumming drinks. In the center of the floor, a crowd of men have gathered at the pool table -

ANOTHER ANGLE:

LILLIAN, dressed in black leather, chalks up her cue as the others look on -

LILLIAN

(taking a drag from her cigarette)

Six ball in the corner pocket.

MAN

She'll never make it.

ANOTHER MAN

You haven't seen her shoot.

STILL ANOTHER MAN

I got five dollars says she won't come close!

ANOTHER MAN

In a pig's eye! I got ten that says she will!

LILLIAN

Put your money on the table, fellas, I'm feeling

hot tonight!

MAN

You're always 'hot', Lil!

LILLIAN

Is that what you tell your wife?

The men laugh as they shell out their bets and the pile of cash grows on the table -

MAN

My wife ain't got what you have!

LILLIAN

Try turning on the lights next time! We all

got the same, Valentino!

STILL ANOTHER MAN

You gonna talk your way through it, or

shoot? My money's gettin' cold!

LILLIAN

That's what happens to nickles and dimes.

ANOTHER MAN

Hit the ball!

LILLIAN

Don't rush me! I gotta plan this out.

LILLIAN flicks her cigarette onto the floor and climbs onto the pool table, her tight black leather pants straining at the seams, and cues up for her shot -

MAN

Christ! Lil, hit the ball! Here comes your

brother, Joe!

The crowd parts as LILLIAN'S big brother, JOE, shoves people aside -

LILLIAN

What're you doin'?! I'm gonna clean up on

this shot!

JOE

Put down the stick, Lil. You're finished.

LILLIAN

Like hell I am!

JOE grabs her by the belt loops and hauls LILLIAN off the table as the men watch open mouthed -

LILLIAN

Let go-a me! Where do you come off....

You big baboon! Put me down! Put me

DOWN! I got a great shot over here!

JOE shoves her roughly towards the door -

JOE

Shut up! I'm double-parked, now get going!

LILLIAN tries to twist from his grip and get back to the table, but JOE is too strong for her -

LILLIAN

You stupid Ass! Who're you pushing around?!

Let go, or I'll punch out your lights!

JOE

I told you to shut up and move!

LILLIAN

Look at me, I'm shaking!

JOE

You act like a slut!

LILLIAN

It's a six ball in the corner pocket!!

JOE grabs the back of her leather jacket and carries LILLIAN out the door, kicking and screaming -

LILLIAN

I had that shot! I had that shot bagged! Let go!

You're gonna rip my jacket! You're gonna be

sorry! No...No...NO! Watch the jacket! That shot

was.....mine!

EXT. Lillian's House - Night

Gray clapboard, and on the wrong side of Allentown, Lillian's house stands back from the sidewalk on a small lawn. JOE'S car pulls up to the curb. LILLIAN jumps out in a rage, before the car rolls to a stop, and slams the door -

LILLIAN

(screaming)

You had no right! You made a fool of me

back there!

JOE

You made a fool of yourself, as usual!

LILLIAN

I was having a good time! What the hell is

wrong with that?!

JOE

(shoving her towards the house)

Keep your voice down! You'll wake up Mom and the

whole neighborhood!

LILLIAN

I don't give a damn, and get your slimy

hands off-a me!

LILLIAN kicks JOE in the knee, and storms into the house -

- Scene -

EXT. Wilson Farm - Day

Heavy slush covers the ground as LILLIAN, doubled over in pain, gets out of her truck. She carries two presents, wrapped in comics from the Sunday paper, and one dark suit on a hanger. MR. WILSON lets the screen door slam -

MR. WILSON

(smiling toothlessly)

Hey, Lillian! Glad to see ya!

LILLIAN

Hi, Mr. Wilson. You gotta stop staying

home from work!

MR. WILSON

Got no choice. The Mill laid me off.

LILLIAN

Oh, I'm sorry.

MR. WILSON

No need. They say it's only temp'rary.

Had a good meatloaf for Christmas

dinner. We have savings in the bank!

LILLIAN

First Federal will give you a free ball-point

pen if you transfer your account.

MR. WILSON

Thanks. Hey, what's wrong with you?

LILLIAN

I had an accident at home.

MR. WILSON

Nothin' serious, I hope.

LILLIAN

Nah, I just have to be careful of the stairs.

MR. WILSON

What you got in there?

LILLIAN holds out the presents to him -

LILLIAN

I wanted to get you and Mrs. Wilson something

for Christmas. You've been awfully good to me.

MRS. WILSON, wrapped in a tattered shawl, pokes her head out the door -

MRS. WILSON

Aw, Lil! You shouldn'ta done it!

MRS. WILSON, thrilled, takes her gift -

LILLIAN

Yours is a set of guest towels.

MRS. WILSON

From the Five and Dime?! In TOWN?! The

ones in their window display...with the

strawberries???!!

LILLIAN

I thought you'd like 'em. Mr. Wilson, yours

is that wood saw you wanted, to fix the fence.

MR. WILSON

(choked up)

I don't know whatta say....

MRS. WILSON

Well, I do! Come in here where it's warm, Lil.

I'm gonna make you a meatloaf sandwich to

take along for lunch!

LILLIAN hobbles into the farmhouse -

- Scene -

- Etc. -

**********************************************************************************

.... By the close of 1955, Lillian Briggs would be crowned "The Queen Of Rock & Roll" by Billboard Magazine and throughout the media... At the same time Elvis Presley was "King".... For a girl from Allentown, who didn't have indoor running water until the age of 10.... Dreams would come true beyond her wildest imagination.... She would tour the world, make millions, change history.... and pay a price for it all.... How? Here's a clue from "Tiger Lil"....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laH9_pXAji4

Lillian Briggs Photo Gallery Link:

https://www.facebook.com/LeeSchillerDotCom/media_set?set=a.306442536134560.61145.100003064495218&type=3

Lillian Briggs Facebook Page Link:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lillian-Briggs/112526965428581

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Lee Schiller, M.A., MFT

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