*** Brief introduction from the author – I have been, in some capacity working on this screenplay for quite a while. “20 Miles to Texas” is a horror script concept that deals directly with irrational fear and how each individual reacts differently to the idea of fear, which ultimately allows it to manifest in a way that is tailored specifically to the person experiencing it. The idea was to write a script that jettisoned the 90’s tradition of a slasher story that involved a cast of around 6 obnoxious teens where hardly anybody died and there was no real tension, because frankly you kind of wanted the cast to die based on how vacuous they were. So I came up with a plot that involved a sizable cast of characters (including varying ages, employment types, ethnicity and levels of likability) in a small but thriving town that is about to endure an epidemic of fear that has no discernible cause and no clear cut villain. There is no Jason Vorhees or Michael Meyers, and each character’s journey through the fear is tailored specifically for them, as no 2 character will experience the same fear, and each death is unique and terrifying. At first, the deaths occur to characters that you’ve barely just met, but over the course of the script, the core cast slowly starts to succumb to the mounting fear that surrounds them. In a nutshell, I wanted to make an anti-90’s horror concept, and did so by making a script with a huge ensemble cast that starts dropping like flies. Like Game of Thrones, don’t get too horribly attached to anybody, because they are likely going to die. I finished the first draft of this script a few years back, but have recently been redrafting it a bit, streamlining the story here and there, keeping the pace on the front end brisk and sprucing up the dialogue (also trying to correct all the typos, but we won’t talk about that). This snippet represents the brunt of the first act and gives a solid impression of where this concept is heading. It’s still a work in progress, but I hope you will enjoy “20 Miles to Texas”.***
*** Also, for the script enthusiast, I apologize for the formatting, but this was the best I could do with WordPress at the moment ***
20 Miles to Texas
by Packy Smith
the First Act – Snippet
EXT. HIGHWAY – DAY
CLOSE SHOT of a road sign that denotes that the town of “Texas” is 20 miles away. A young Hispanic Male in a dusty poncho appears like a mirage stepping off of the highway directly in front of the road sign. The man pulls a can of red spray paint out of his poncho and shakes it vigorously. He looks around to ensure that the coast is clear then sprays a message on the road sign. The message reads, “25 to Hell,” just under the printed “Texas – 20” portion of the road sign. A car is seen in the distance approaching the road sign, and just like a mirage the Hispanic Male disappears. As the car drives by JACK, the driver – a young man in his early thirties, takes particular notice of the road sign.
INT. JACK’S CAR – DAY
It is hot as hell and the A/C is not working in Jack’s car. The windows are rolled down and there is sweat pouring off of his body and his t-shirt is soaked clean through. The radio in the car is blaring out a hard rock song as JACK bobs his head to the tune attempting to keep his spirits high. On the horizon WE SEE a gas station.
EXT. GAS STATION – DAY
Jack pulls up to the pump at the gas station. He exits his old beat up Delta 88 and groans at the horrible sounds that the engine makes. Running his hands through his hair and wiping the sweat off on his shirt, he enters the gas station.
INT. GAS STATION – DAY
As Jack enters the convenience store he takes a brief moment to enjoy the cool air from the A/C. An OLD TIMER creeps out from the back office up to the cash wrap.
OLD TIMER
You alright kid?
JACK
Yeah, I’m just cooling off.
OLD TIMER
Well you look like a Fruit Loop. Is that the new fashion these days?
Jack notices that his sweat is well soaked through his plain white T-shirt leaving little too the imagination.
JACK
No, I have a problem with the A/C in my car. It only blows hot air, and with it being well over 100 degrees outside…
OLD TIMER
What kind of car is it?
JACK
It’s a ’97 Oldsmobile Delta 88.
OLD TIMER
Sounds like you could have a refrigerant leak. The most common cause for air conditioner failure is refrigerant leakage. The refrigerant leaks from a crack in the hosing or a loose connection. If you don’t fix it quickly, you might bust your AC, and then the whole system will need to be replaced. If you stop for a day or so in Texas just up the street, they should have some sort of grease monkey who can fix it there.
JACK
Thanks. I’ll do that. I gotta stop there anyway for some business. Also, I need to rest and could use a shower.
OLD TIMER
And a change of clothes, this ain’t no damned wet T-shirt contest, you know.
JACK
(laughing)
Yeah, I know.
OLD TIMER
You aren’t from around here, are you?
JACK
No, I uh, I’m seemingly from all over these days. Started in a small town, Portland in south Texas, like actual Texas, and I’ve been moving around ever since.
OLD TIMER
Just driftin’, eh?
JACK
You could say that.
OLD TIMER
Like Kane in Kung Fu.
JACK
I’ve found it’s a bit more like David Banner from the Incredible Hulk.
OLD TIMER
Ah, so you’re a trouble maker then.
JACK
No, sir, if you recall, Banner doesn’t make trouble, it just had a way of following him everywhere he went.
OLD TIMER
Portland, did you say? Were you there when that, and I don’t even know what you would call it, I suppose it would be a massacre. Where you there for that?
Jack shows noted concern at the Old Timer’s question.
JACK
I, I was.
OLD TIMER
I thought I read that they never caught the feller that did it.
JACK
That’s…
QUICK FLASHBACK:
WE SEE QUICK CUTS of Jack working in full uniform with an EMT unit, dead bodies on the street (all dead in different and bizarre ways), Jack running through a door to a house.
JACK
(Off Camera)
…not entirely true. It’s a long story. Suffice it to say, the whole story didn’t quite make the press.
BACK TO THE PRESENT:
Jack reaches in his back pocket and pulls his wallet out. He produces ten bucks in cash and hands it to the Old Timer. The Old Timer inspects the bill.
OLD TIMER
At least it’s dry. What can I get for you?
Jack grabs a bottled water out of a fridge and a pastry from a nearby shelf.
JACK
I need these and the rest in gas.
OLD TIMER
With gas prices the way they are out here, that ain’t gonna get you very far in that gas guzzler.
JACK
I just need to make it to Texas.
OLD TIMER
It’s a nice place.
JACK
Yeah, I hear it’s a great place to find some work.
OLD TIMER
Yeah, I hear that too… yet here I am pumping gas for fruity young men who like showing off their titty nipples like it’s a damned rave in here.
JACK
Come on now, it can’t be so bad working at a quaint little “Stop and Rob,” like this. Look at all the interesting people you get to meet.
OLD TIMER
(Upset)
What did you call this place?
JACK
(Oblivious)
Huh?
OLD TIMER
What did you call this place?
JACK
A “Stop and Rob.”
OLD TIMER
(Paranoid)
Why would you say that?
JACK
It’ just an expression, like calling a Starbucks a “Fivebucks,” or calling my car a “P.O.S.”
OLD TIMER
Funny, none of those expressions have crimes attached to ’em. Get your gas and get the hell out of here.
Jack shrugs his shoulders in disbelief to what he has just witnessed. Not wasting anymore time Jack exits the shop.
OLD TIMER
What a fruit.
EXT. GAS STATION – DAY
Jack has finished gassing up his car and is placing the nozzle back in its hook. As he is twisting the cap to his gas can back on a truck with two SHADY CHARACTERS pulls into the gas station. Jack takes a drink of his water and observes the truck. The two Shady Characters jump out of the truck. Jack notices that one of them has a pistol tucked under their shirt. Shady Character 1 pulls his shirt down and looks straight at Jack.
SHADY CHARACTER 1
What in the hell are you looking at?
JACK
Nothing.
SHADY CHARACTER 2
Forget him, man. Come on.
Jack gets in his car and starts the engine. The two Shady Characters enter the gas station as Jack puts the car in gear and drives away. The sounds of indistinct yelling can be heard. Jack is nearly half a mile down the highway as a single gunshot can be faintly heard off in the distance.
EXT. TEXAS HIGHWAY – DAY
Jack’s Delta 88 passes a road sign that proudly states, “Now Entering the City of Texas – Where you may grow in power and worth, throughout the ages long.”
EXT. CITY OF TEXAS – DAY
Jack pulls into the parking lot of a Coffee Shop. He comes out of his car with a T-shirt in hand. After stripping his wet shirt off he grabs a can of body spray from inside his car and freshens up. Jack puts a dry T-shirt on and heads in the Coffee Shop.
INT. COFFEE SHOP – DAY
This is your standard Starbucks style coffee shop and it is packed with customers. There are people chatting, text messaging, and typing away on their laptops. A young female BARISTA is taking orders, collecting payments and filling up coffee cups like crazy. Jack looks at the menu’s high prices and chuckles.
JACK
“Fivebucks” indeed.
The BARISTA appears out of nowhere to take his order.
BARISTA
What can I get ya?
JACK
Geez, I don’t know…
BARISTA
Well hurry it up sweetheart, I ain’t got all day. There’s a queue piling up behind ya!
JACK
Yeah, OK…
BARISTA
Jeez. Come on now. We’re real busy now hurry it up will ya…
Jack continues to scan the menu, woefully unable to find exactly what he is looking for.
BARISTA
For the love of peanut butter brittle, my biological clocks ticks faster than you.
JACK
Fine. Whatever. I don’t care, just something cold, and big. Make it really really big.
BARISTA
Alright sweetie, one “big” mocha lotta frappuccino coming up. That’ll be $5.83.
Jack pays the Barista.
BARISTA
Thanks sweetie, you are order two fifty four. Now scram!
Jack shakes his head in disbelief, and decides to have a seat at the nearby bar.
BARISTA
Order two fifty three up!
RYAN, a sharp looking man in his mid-thirties, reaches across Jack to grab his fresh cup of coffee.
RYAN
Sorry about that, man. Hope I remembered deodorant.
JACK
No worries, you couldn’t possibly smell any worse than me.
Both men laugh.
RYAN
I haven’t seen you around, are you new here?
JACK
Yes, just got in a few minutes ago. Name’s Jack.
The men shake hands.
RYAN
Ryan. What brings you to town?
JACK
Work. I was talking to a friend of a friend of a friend, and they led me to believe that there were some openings for EMTs at the local hospital here. So, I contacted their HR department, and they wanted to chat a bit more, batta-bing batta-boom and so here I am.
RYAN
I’m sure that they need more folks. This place is growing, fast. Texas is master engineered community that only opened 5 years ago, but already it’s gone from fledgling town to nearly a full blown city.
JACK
I take it you know a bit about this place?
RYAN
I ought to, I was here when they cut the ribbon.
JACK
Nice. How did this, “place” come to be?
RYAN
It was a conglomeration between 3 corporate entities. You’ve got: Mollusk Oil, Howard, Fine and Howard Pharmaceuticals, and Hillman Industries. They wanted to make a place out here that embodied the values and the entrepreneurial spirit of Texas. And there you have it, a new town was born.
JACK
What’s Hillman Industries?
RYAN
It’s a research and development company, they do mostly military stuff. Weapons and whatnot. Other projects as well, very, “hush, hush.”
JACK
That’s kind of kooky in a small town like this, don’t you think?
RYAN
I don’t dwell on it much…besides, they employ a fifth of the residents here and they sponsor an Air Show with the Blue Angels every year, and I never get tired of that.
JACK
That’s cool. So what do you do? You know an awful lot about this place, you work for the local government or something?
RYAN
Who me? The government? Oh no, hell no. I own a car wash off Second Street, man.
Ryan digs in his shirt pocket and pulls out a coupon.
RYAN
Here ya go, man. One free car wash.
Ryan hands Jack the coupon.
JACK
Thanks, I’ll definitely take you up on that. It seems nice here. I like it so far.
The Barista places a coffee on the bar.
BARISTA
Order two fifty four up!
JACK
Well, maybe not this Barista, but the rest of Texas has been great so far.
Jack grabs the Frappuccino and takes a sip.
RYAN
Yeah, they really strive to have this whole old west slash 1950’s thing here. They’ve created a lot of culture and community here. There’s barely any crime and no poor side of town. The community really pools together and helps each other out. That’s not to say that people don’t have their problems, we are only human after all, but here they just seem fewer and farther between. I think you’ll like it if you decide to stay here.
JACK
So far so good. Where can a feller rustle up some grub around here?
RYAN
Check out the Dillo Diner on Main Street. When you leave here take the left at the traffic signal, 2 streets over then make a right. You can’t miss it.
JACK
Thanks for everything.
RYAN
No problem man, I’m sure I’ll see you around.
JACK
Count on it.
Jack throws some change in the tip jar and leaves the Coffee Shop.
EXT. CITY OF TEXAS – DAY
Jack pulls his vehicle out of the parking lot of the Coffee Shop. While waiting for a green light at the intersection Jack takes a moment to look at some paperwork in the passenger seat. The light turns green and Jack moves the car forward slowly, still looking for a paper. Like a bat out of hell, ignoring the red light from the side lane, a large diesel truck t-bones Jack’s car. Multiple people pour out of the surrounding shops to see what has happened. Jack is barely conscience in his car.
QUICK FLASHBACK:
Jack is in his EMT uniform running in a panic towards a car that is turned over in the street. He looks in vehicle and sees a dead woman. He breaks down and starts crying beside the vehicle.
FADE OUT.
INT. HOSPITAL PRIVATE ROOM – NIGHT
Jack is lying in a bed in a recovery room. He wakes up and feels a sharp pain in his head. Looking around he notices that He’s got an I.V. in his left arm. In the distance WE HEAR the sounds of patients moaning in pain and screaming in fear. Jack wants to see what’s going on but cannot.
INT. HOSPITAL HALLWAY – NIGHT
DEIDRA and DIANE are walking down the hallway of the hospital. The hospital is neatly kept and extremely clean, still seemingly brand new in appearance. You can tell that a lot of effort is put into keeping the facilities immaculate. Deidra, a very serious nurse in her early thirties, is pushing a medical cart. Diane, a bubbly happy young lady in her late twenties, is dressed for work at the Dillo Diner. The continuous sounds of moaning and screaming can still be heard faintly in the distance.
DEIDRA
You are not moving.
DIANE
And why the hell not?
DEIDRA
We’ve been over this Di, if it wasn’t for me paying your bills every other month you’d never make it. The only reason I help you at all is because we’re sisters and because you’re here.
DIANE
Don’t call me Di. I hate it when you call me Di. Di is the name of that chick that died in a car that made Elton John sing a song about her. Elton John will never sing a song about me.
DEIDRA
Of course not, you’re a woman.
DIANE
Di was a woman. Also, grow up.
DEIDRA
She was also a princess, and a real one at that. I think she deserved a song.
DIANE
Whatever.
Deidra takes her equipment into a patient’s room. She begins evaluating the patient’s vitals while Diane waits out in the hall. Diane hears a call for help coming out of the next room. Feeling the need to investigate, Diane opens the door to the room revealing Jack.
DIANE
You alright?
JACK
No. Who are you? Where’s the nurse?
DIANE
She’s coming. I’m her sister, Diane.
JACK
Hi, Diane. I’ve been buzzing for a nurse for over twenty minutes. I’m not even getting a response from the nurse’s station. What in the hell is going on in this place?
DIANE
I don’t know. It’s super busy today.
Deidra walks into the room with her cart.
DEIDRA
Hello there. My name is Deidra and I’ll be checking on you all night. How’s our mystery guest today?
JACK
Not too impressed, that’s how he is.
DEIDRA
Ah, whatsa matter?
Deidra checks the vitals on his IV machine.
JACK
I’ve been trying to get somebody in here for over twenty minutes.
DEIDRA
I’m sorry for that, the pager system has been acting up all month. Every time they fix it the damn thing breaks the next day. I’ll report it immediately.
Deidra checks Jack’s blood pressure.
DEIDRA
How are you feeling?
JACK
My head hurts…like somebody hit me with a truck.
DEIDRA
Somebody did hit you with a truck.
JACK
I was afraid you were gonna say that.
DEIDRA
You don’t remember?
JACK
Not entirely, no. Off topic, but I need to know, has there been an explosion, or a fire in town tonight?
DEIDRA
Not that I’m aware of.
JACK
Then what’s with all the sounds of suffering? I’ve only heard sounds like this from extreme burn victims.
DEIDRA
I’m not entirely sure why they are being so vocal tonight. You’ve been around burn victims?
JACK
I’m an EMT by trade and I’ve seen just about every horror imaginable…and from the sounds of it that’s exactly what these people are going through.
DEIDRA
I can assure you, there are no horrors, imaginable or otherwise, plaguing this facility.
Deidra pulls a vial of medicine from her cart.
DEIDRA
Now here’s a little something for that headache of yours. It might make you a little drowsy. Get some rest and I can promise you this, you will feel a lot better when you wake up.
Deidra injects the medicine into Jack’s IV.
DEIDRA
There you go. I’ll come in and check on you soon.
Deidra exits the room.
DIANE
Can I ask you a question?
JACK
Shoot.
DIANE
Are you from around here?
JACK
(loopy from the medicine)
Oh, no.
DIANE
Just passing through?
JACK
(even more out of it)
Maybe I am, and maybe I’m not.
DIANE
Where are you from?
JACK
(completely out of it)
Nowhere.
DIANE
Oh, really? Are you sure about that?
JACK
(singing)
Oh I’m a real nowhere man living in a nowhere land…making all my nowhere plans…for nobody…
Deidra pops her head in the door.
DEIDRA
Di, stop hassling the patient. He needs his rest. You’d need rest too if you’d just been in car wreck.
DIANE
OK, I’m coming.
(to Jack)
You’ll have to forgive my sister she’s a little…
Jack can’t hear a thing, he’s already fast asleep.
DIANE
…pushy. Who are you?
INT. HOSPITAL BREAK ROOM – NIGHT
Deidra and Diane are sitting at a table eating a healthy snack.
DEIDRA
It’ll never happen. You’ll never move.
DIANE
I will too. I’m getting the hell out of here. I put my two weeks in at the diner yesterday.
DEIDRA
What are you going to do when your money runs out, again?
DIANE
The money’s not going to run out again.
DEIDRA
How can you say that? You haven’t had a steady income in over 5 years.
DIANE
Ever since we moved here, what a coincidence. I wonder, could that be a key indicator as to why I need to get out of here.
DEIDRA
I asked you to move in with me, but you wouldn’t hear of it. The way I see it, your money problems are your fault.
DIANE
What? You wanted me to move in with you and your fifty something boyfriend? Not to put too fine a point on it, but you are only thirty one…you shouldn’t be dating someone our dad’s age.
DEIDRA
This isn’t about who I’m dating it’s about your irresponsible behavior. You’ll never make it on your own, and you know it.
DIANE
Maybe I won’t go on my own.
DEIDRA
You’ve got nobody in your life right now. You kicked John out of your apartment a month ago. Your life is going nowhere and all of the men in this town know it.
DIANE
Oh whatever. I get plenty of dates.
DEIDRA
Of course you get dates! You’re like the town’s dartboard, nobody minds throwing a few darts into you, but after they’ve had their fun they always find better things to do with their time.
DIANE
(extremely disgusted)
Oh, whatever. To hell with this. I gotta go home and pack.
Diane storms out of the Break Room and then storms back in.
DIANE
And for the record, I may go out and have few drinks with the boys, but I’ve had all of two partners in the 5 years that I’ve been in this shit-heel of a town. So you can kiss my ass! You wanna talk about sleeping around, let’s talk about the seven pumps you’ve had since we’ve been here.
DEIDRA
We should drop this.
DIANE
You should stop calling your sister the town slut. You know what? I don’t care. I don’t care. I’m packing and I’m leaving.
DEIDRA
Di, if you leave…then you’re cut off. I won’t help you anymore.
DIANE
I hope that’s a promise.
Diane storms out of the Break Room, slamming the door behind her.
INT. HOSPITAL – NIGHT
Jack wakes up abruptly to the continually horrifying sounds of the patients. Nurses are chattering in the hallway about the situation. Jack, in pain, sits up and looks around the room. He gets up and cracks the door open. Two gurneys, with dead patients, roll by his room. Another patient runs out of his room and drops to the floor puking blood and then collapsing to his death.
JACK
What in the hell is going on here?
Jack pulls the I.V. out of his arm and grabs a hospital bag full of his personal effects. He walks out of his room and down through the hallway. On his way to the elevator another patient comes out of their room choking to death. He comes to their aide but he is way too late. Jack walks away from the dead patient and continues to the elevator. He presses the down button and waits for the elevator. Diane walks up the elevators and sees Jack in his patients gown.
DIANE
Cute butt. What are you doing up?
JACK
Nothing.
DIANE
And where do you think you’re going?
JACK
Nowhere.
DIANE
That’s apparently your favorite word. You know there’s no way they’re going to let you out of here.
JACK
Legally, there’s no way they can keep me. At worst, I have a concussion. There are other people here falling out like the black plague for no apparent reason. In all my years as an EMT I have never seen death this rampant in a hospital in my life. It’s like it’s contagious or something. I want no part of it.
The elevator dings as the doors open. Diane notices Deidra making her rounds.
DIANE
Shit, here comes my sister. I can help you get out of here.
JACK
I don’t need any help.
Jack steps into the elevator.
DIANE
Well you need clothes.
JACK
I don’t think your’s will fit me.
DIANE
No smart ass, but I have some that should.
Jack holds the elevator doors open.
DIANE
First floor, by the gift shop there’s a radiology room, the pass code is 1492. I have to go get my purse…left it in the Break Room. Wait for me in there, I’ll be there in a couple minutes.
JACK
You’ve got five, then I’m gone.
The elevator doors shut. Diane heads for the Break Room. Deidra’s enters Jack’s room and immediately notices that he’s gone. Deidra comes out of the room and finds Diane, now with a purse under her arm, heading for the elevator.
DEIDRA
Hey. Have you seen Mr. Mystery?
Diane pushes the down button for the elevator.
DIANE
Nope, but I’ll make sure to sleep with him if I see him at the bar.
DEIDRA
Cut it out. There’s some weird shit happening tonight. Just, be careful, ok? Don’t do anything stupid tonight.
Diane looks at the dead bodies on the floor, as doctors, nurses and orderlies bust their rear ends to clean up the mess.
DIANE
All of this right here is just one more reason why I need to leave as soon as possible. Bye.
The elevator dings and the doors open. Diane makes her way to the radiology room, punches the pass code and enters.
DIANE
Hey, are you in here?
Jack appears from out of nowhere, startling Diane.
JACK
Yeah, your lucky. I was just about to bail on you.
DIANE
Lucky? I’m not the one whose ass is hanging out. Come on, let’s get you some clothes.
Jack and Diane escape from the Hospital.
INT. DIANE’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Jack and Diane enter the apartment. It’s a fairly sparse looking apartment, a lot of boxes filled with items that would have normally been on display. It’s apparent that she is getting ready to move but it looks far from organized. Diane flips the light switch on.
DIANE
I’d apology for the state of the place, but I figure a man in your situation can’t complain much.
JACK
Fair enough.
Diane opens a cabinet door and starts rifling through the clothes that are inside.
DIANE
I had a man, boyfriend, whatever. We’re splits-ville but I still have some of his stuff.
She holds up a pair of men’s underwear.
DIANE
Looks to have been about your size.
JACK
I somehow doubt that.
DIANE
Clever.
JACK
You got any boxers? The whitey-tighties are just too, grade school.
Diane hands Jack some clothes.
DIANE
I can’t find any boxers, so it looks like you’ll be going commando. Unless of course you’d like wearing one of my thongs.
JACK
Commando it is.
DIANE
Aw, I have a pair with Hello Kitty on them.
JACK
Negative Ghost Rider, pattern is full.
DIANE
So he has a sense of humor, but does he have a name?
JACK
He has a name.
Beat.
DIANE
Any chance that I’m gonna hear that name?
JACK
I’m working up to it. I’ll keep you posted.
Diane has a seat on the sofa. Jack, positioned behind the sofa, takes off his hospital gown and stretches. Diane turns to face him only to blush at the site of his naked body which is in extremely good shape.
DIANE
So what brings you to…wow. I’m sorry I shouldn’t stare like this. I just, wow. I guess he wasn’t your size.
Jack chuckles a bit as he puts a pair of jeans on.
JACK
Close enough in the waist at least. Being as we’ve, uh, bonded and everything, I think it’s only fair to introduce myself now. I’m Jack.
DIANE
Jack, I’m Diane. I feel like I should strip or something, just to even up the playing field a little.
Jack slides a T-shirt on.
JACK
I’m sure your body is magnificent, but it’s not necessary. I’m one of those guys that still likes to use my imagination. Thank you for the clothes.
DIANE
Don’t mention it. So, what brings you to this manufactured hole in the wall?
JACK
I, uh, well actually I was going to try to get a job at the Hospital here, but I, uh, I don’t think I’ll be going there again. More than likely I’ll just keep on easing down the road a bit more till I find something that works for me.
DIANE
So you’re leaving?
JACK
Yes.
DIANE
When?
JACK
I don’t know. I have to find out where my car is and if it’s still running. In theory, as soon as humanly possible.
DIANE
Take me with you.
JACK
Uh, no.
DIANE
Come on. I’ve already put in my notice at the diner. As you can see, I’m moving out of here anyway. I’ve saved up a few bucks, we could pull our resources together and find somewhere else to be.
JACK
Look, I travel alone, and nothing personal but I’m not looking to get involved with anyone right now.
DIANE
I’m not asking you to marry me. Hell, I’m not asking even asking you to date me. I just want to get in a car, and get the hell out of here. Just drop me off somewhere other than here.
JACK
Look, no horse shit, you seem like a really extremely sweet person, but I have tendency to have bad things happen to me and around me. I have to go it alone. I, uh, I’ve lost some…it’s complicated…but I’m just not ready right now.
DIANE
Can you do me a favor?
JACK
Depends.
DIANE
Be good, or I’ll take those clothes back.
JACK
You really in that big of hurry to see me naked again?
DIANE
No, well maybe, but no seriously…will you at least think about it? I figure you’re bound to be here for a couple days, just give it some thought, will ya? I won’t cause you any problems, I just don’t want to travel alone.
JACK
OK, no promises, but I will keep it in mind.
DIANE
Thank you. I know it’s not a lot, but this sofa is very comfortable. I have spent many a night falling asleep here watching Netflix. It’s yours if you’d like.
JACK
I don’t want to cause you any trouble, just get me to a hotel and I’ll be fine.
DIANE
It’s no trouble. I find you an interesting conundrum. Besides, my sister’s going to kill me when she finds out anyway. The damage is done. You have to stay.
JACK
Look, I don’t think…
DIANE
Sit down, shut up and rest! Stop being so hard headed.
JACK
Alright, alright. Settle down already. I’ll stay tonight, but only because my head really hurts and I need the rest.
DIANE
I’ll bring you a pillow and some Tylenol Three to take the edge off of that headache. Oh, and Jack…
JACK
Yeah.
DIANE
(smiling)
Shut up and rest, will ya?
Jack smiles as a pillow hits him in the head.
INT. DIANE’S APARTMENT – DAY
Jack wakes up rubbing the temples of his head. Diane, dressed to go to work at the diner, sits in a chair across from him and tosses some mail on the coffee table between them.
DIANE
You finally decide to wake up, sleepy head?
JACK
Ugh, yeah. What time is it?
DIANE
3:36 PM.
JACK
(yawning)
Good grief.
DIANE
How are you feeling?
JACK
A lot better. Head is still pounding, though.
DIANE
Oh, I can help.
Diane runs and grabs some Tylenol from a cabinet in the kitchen.
DIANE
Here’s some more Tylenol Three. Should help.
Diane hands Jack the medicine.
JACK
Where did you get these? I thought these were prescription only?
DIANE
I’ve been having these migraine headaches like crazy recently, so my sis, hooked me up with these little codeine filled beauties.
JACK
How is your sister?
DIANE
Sufficiently pissed, but she’ll get over it. According to her, I took you home to perform the entire Kamasutra with you.
JACK
You didn’t?
DIANE
Cute. But don’t worry about her, she’ll get over it, besides she has far worse on her plate than a cantankerous patient that wouldn’t stay put
She hands him a note.
JACK
Joe’s You Wreck ‘Em I Fix ‘Em? Classy.
DIANE
That’s where your car is. Give Joe a call, he said he was waiting to hear from you.
JACK
Thank you. I don’t know what to say.
DIANE
You already said it, and you’re welcome. Look, I have to go to work now. If you’re up to it, stop by the diner after 6 and I’ll hook you up. We can talk some more there.
JACK
Food. Sounds like a plan. I’ll be there in a bit.
DIANE
‘K, see ya then.
Diane leaves for work. Jack picks up the phone and dials the number from the note.
JACK
Hey, this is Jack. I’m the owner of the Delta 88.
Beat.
JACK
Yeah. Ouch. I could see where that’s a problem. So what are we looking at time wise?
Beat.
JACK
Three days. Hmm, and that’s including the body work, right? OK. Will that time frame change if I say, have you fix the A/C as well?
Beat.
JACK
Understandable. OK. Well if anything changes call me here, the number is, uh? I have no idea what the number is here. Oh, you’ve got it on your caller ID? Great, and if I’m not here you can leave Diane a message. That’ll be great. Thanks. OK. Bye.
INT. DILLO DINER – EVENING
The Dillo Diner is a highly stylized restaurant. Made to resemble the diners of the 1950s, it is in top shape and the place is packed. Jack walks up to the CONCIERGE.
CONCIERGE
Welcome to the Dillo Diner, smoking or non?
JACK
Can you sit me wherever Diane is?
CONCIERGE
Sure thing darling.
Diane comes up to the front and grabs Jack by the arm.
DIANE
I’ll take him from here.
CONCIERGE
Okey dokey.
Diane takes Jack to the bar.
DIANE
Sit here, and give me a minute. I’m going to take a break.
Jack has a seat at the bar. Diane motions to the empty stool next to Jack.
DIANE
Don’t let anybody sit here, I’ll be right back.
JACK
Your seat is safe. Do what you gotta do.
DIANE
I’ll be right back.
Diane runs into the Kitchen. JOHN approaches Jack.
JOHN
Hi there.
JACK
Howdy.
JOHN
You new here?
JACK
Yeah. Just got in yesterday.
JOHN
I hope the town is treating you well.
JACK
So far I’ve been hit by a car and I got to watch multiple people die in the hallways of the hospital. But other than that, everything else has been peachy keen.
JOHN
Ouch. Sorry to hear that. Where are my manners? I’m John.
The two men shake hands.
JACK
Jack.
JOHN
That shirt looks familiar.
JACK
Does it?
JOHN
Pardon the intrusion, but were you just talking to Diane.
JACK
Yeah. Is that a problem?
JOHN
I wouldn’t call it a problem, necessarily. I would just warn you. She’s very clingy…and, just between you and me, she acts like she wants you, but then will act like she doesn’t want to…
JACK
Put out?
JOHN
That’s the word.
JACK
That’s an admirable quality in a lady. It might even be important information if I were considering asking her out, but I’m just here as a friend. She gave me a ride from the hospital, made sure I was alright for the night and I wanted to thank her. It’s just dinner.
JOHN
Alright then. Sounds good. You sticking around?
JACK
Just a couple days then I’m back on the road. Got my car in the shop, the wreck, remember?
JOHN
Yeah, the wreck. Well you take care and maybe I’ll see you around.
JACK
Anything’s possible.
John walks away as Diane comes out of the kitchen. John confronts her.
JOHN
What in the hell are you doing?
DIANE
Working? Is that going to be a problem too? Cuz, you know, I have enough problems right now.
JOHN
You can work all you want. I’m talking about your pretty boy over at the bar.
DIANE
Who? Jack? Oh shit, is this jealousy? That’s so cute. Get over it, he’s not interested in me.
JOHN
So he says. He also said you gave him a ride from the hospital. Since when are you in the habit of picking up strange men?
DIANE
How in the hell do you think I met you? I get it John, you’re just trying to be protective, and I think in a Cro-Magnon kind of a way that it’s really sweet of you, but back off. We’re just talking.
JOHN
What do you know about this guy? For all you know he could be a serial killer.
JACK
That wouldn’t bode well for you if it were true.
John turns around to find Jack standing right behind him.
JACK
(to Diane)
Ready to eat?
DIANE
Thank the Lord. Yes, get me away from this creep.
Jack and Diane go back to the bar and have a seat. John continues watching in frustration.
DIANE
I’m so sorry about John, he’s an ex.
JACK
Say no more. What’s in the past is in the past. I find it best not to dwell on such things.
DIANE
That’s too bad. I was about to ask you about your past.
JACK
There are a lot of different versions of my past, but they’re all torrid lies.
DIANE
And do you happen to know the E! Hollywood true story of your past?
JACK
Probably the only person who’ll tell the honest to goodness true story of my past is God. However, I can give you the approximate version.
DIANE
Please do.
JACK
I was born in Corpus Christi, Texas. Lived in Portland, a small suburb outside of Corpus. Lived a relatively uneventful life there. Graduated high school, local community college, became an EMT…
A PSYCHO, sitting just a few feet from Jack and Diane, puts a ski mask on and stands up from his booth pulling out a revolver from under his shirt.
PSYCHO
Alright everybody listen up! I want all the wallets and jewelry on the tables NOW! You! Open the cash register now!
The Psycho shoots one bullet into the ceiling. Panic hits almost everyone in the diner. Jack looks on at the Psycho unfettered.
PSYCHO
Pay attention assholes! Money, wallets, jewelry, valuables…on the table NOW! Cash register…NOW!
The diner patrons comply with the Psycho’s requests. The Concierge opens the cash register, hitting a red button under the register at the same time.
PSYCHO
Thank you very much! Now everybody grab some floor! That’s right, give the floor a little hug for me. Kiss it if you want, I don’t give a shit.
The diner patrons again comply with the exception of a POLICE OFFICER and Jack.
DIANE
(whispering)
Jack, get down here. Jack!
Jack ignores her, keeping his focus on the Psycho. The Psycho notices Jack and points his revolver at him.
PSYCHO
What’s your problem mate? Not happy with life? Looking to lose it?
JACK
None of the above.
PSYCHO
Then what is it? Let’s hear it then.
JACK
Not impressed.
The Psycho bursts out into laughter. The Police Officer silently maneuvers himself behind the Psycho.
PSYCHO
Oh really? And why’s that?
JACK
Even if you make it out of here, where will you go? There’s not another town around here for at least 40 miles. On top of that there’s only one highway which effectively only gives you two ways out of here. You’ll be caught either way. So why bother? What’s this all about?
PSYCHO
You know, it’s thinking like that, that gets a man killed. Are you ready to meet your maker?
JACK
I was ready five years ago.
The Police officer cocks the hammer of his pistol.
POLICE OFFICER
Alright mister, drop your weapon now! Put the gun down.
The Psycho turns his attention, and his weapon, toward the Police Officer.
POLICE OFFICER
I am not playing around. Drop your weapon now!
Without batting an eyelash the Psycho pulls the trigger of his revolver sending a bullet into the Police officer’s head. Everyone gasps in fear. Multiple sirens can be heard in the background which freaks the Psycho out.
PSYCHO
How is that possible? Who called the cops? WHO?
Two other POLICE OFFICERS rise up from the ground, near the table where the now dead cop is, and draw their weapons, only to be shot down immediately by the Psycho. The sirens are now accompanied by police lights. The Psycho ducks down and peaks outside a window. Police cars have surrounded all sides of the building.
PSYCHO
(panicked)
They’re everywhere. They’re everywhere. They’re everywhere.
The Psycho hears an unearthly nose behind him. He turns around and sees that the first police offer he shot has now become a zombie! The other two police officers rise from the dead as well. The Psycho fires his remaining two shots into the zombies, but to no avail. The zombies attack with uncharacteristically lightning fast speed. The Psycho falls to the floor reaching into his pocket he finds more bullets and he reloads his gun. More of the patrons turn into these lightning fast zombies and they come after the Psycho. He unloads all six bullets into these new zombies and fumbles around some more for bullets. Jack looks around and notices nothing out of the ordinary, he does not see the lights or zombies nor hear the sirens. The police cars and zombies are seemingly only in the Psycho’s mind. The patrons of the diner are now starting to notice the severity of his paranoia. Jack tackles the Psycho to the ground. He puts the crazed robber in a full nelson and then bangs his head into a nearby table rendering the madman unconscious. The actual police arrive a short while after the action ends.
INT. DILLO DINER – MOMENTS LATER
The police have set up the crime scene. Multiple dead bodies lie on the floor, none of them are zombies. The DETECTIVE is sitting at a table with Jack and Diane.
DETECTIVE
Alright, that’ll do. Sheesh, none of this makes any sense.
JACK
I’m telling you, that man was seeing things. Things that nobody else was seeing. Delusional.
DETECTIVE
That’s what everyone else is saying. Probably drug related.
(sighs)
Take care now, you two have a good evening, drive safely.
Jack and the Detective shake hands. Jack and Diane walk away from the table. Diane is holding on to Jack’s arm.
DIANE
Don’t get a room tonight. Stay at my place again. One more night. Please. I’m just really freaked out right now.
JACK
Look, I don’t know if that’s such a great idea.
DIANE
Please Jack. I can’t be alone tonight.
John appears beside them.
JOHN
Are you gonna be alright?
Diane can’t say anything, she is looking at Jack, waiting for him to change his mind. After a beat Jack makes eye contact with her ex.
JACK
She’ll be fine. I’m going to watch after her tonight.
JOHN
I don’t know if I’m OK with that.
JACK
It’s not up for debate, hot shot.
JOHN
You better watch yourself.
JACK
Or what? I’m not afraid of you. I’m not afraid of anything.
(To Diane)
You ready?
Diane nods yes. Jack and Diane exit the diner as John looks on in anger.
INT. DIANE’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Jack and Diane are sitting on the sofa watching a horror movie. Diane is leaning up against Jack with her head against his shoulder. An intense moment happens in the movie and Diane squeezes Jack’s arm.
JACK
Are you sure this is what you want to watch?
DIANE
Yes. Yes it is. I know this is going to sound crazy, but watching this reminds me that monsters aren’t real. That things like what happened tonight at the diner are just random acts of violence.
JACK
That man lost it, pure and simple. I don’t believe that he even knew he was still in the diner after he snapped. He was fighting his demons, and that’s the kind of thing only he could understand.
DIANE
But why? Why snap there? It had to be premeditated on some level.
JACK
Most likely it was, maybe he was just looking for a quick burst of cash before he left town. Maybe he was just crazy. Look, I don’t have the answers. All I know, is that he was reacting to events that weren’t happening, or at least they weren’t happening for anybody else.
DIANE
What happened five years ago?
JACK
Huh?
DIANE
You told that whack job at the diner that you were ready, essentially to die, five years ago. What happened?
JACK
A lot. It’s not a good story for tonight.
DIANE
Why not?
JACK
If what happened tonight scared you, then what happened to me five years ago would give you a heart attack.
DIANE
I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to pry.
Beat.
DIANE
How do you survive something like that?
JACK
Day by day. I’m kind of like an Alzheimer’s patient…I have my good days and my bad days.
DIANE
I’m sorry.
JACK
Don’t be. It was a bad time, and I have to try hard each and every day to put it behind me. Look at it this way, I can take solace in knowing that what happened to me will never happen to you or the majority of the people on this planet.
Jack and Diane share a brief moment, staring in each other’s eyes.
DIANE
You’re scarier than the movie.
JACK
I really am.
They both laugh a little. Diane snuggles into Jack’s lap.
JACK
Are you going to be OK?
DIANE
Yeah, I’m just a little sleepy.
Jack runs his hand through DIANE’S hair.
JACK
Get some rest. Tomorrow will be a better day.
Jack continues to run his hand through Diane’s hair as she falls asleep in his lap.
FADE OUT.
INT. DIANE’S APARTMENT – MORNING
Diane wakes up on the sofa, alone. Jack is on the phone, sitting on the chair across from her.
JACK
No. Damn it.
(sighing)
No. I understand. It’s OK. Do what you’ve got to do. Sorry about blowing up on you. Thanks. OK. Bye.
Jack hangs up the phone.
DIANE
Everything alright?
JACK
Yeah, it’s just going to take another day to fix the car.
DIANE
Is it because of the A/C?
JACK
No, it’s one part that they are having to special order. It was supposed to be in today, but won’t be in till tomorrow. Blah, blah, blah.
DIANE
Sounds like you need some coffee.
JACK
I’ve already had two cups. Would you like some?
DIANE
Ooh, yes please. Two creams, three sugars.
Jack heads into the kitchen.
JACK
Good grief. Would you like a little coffee with your sugar?
DIANE
I like it sweet, make it happen. How’s your headache?
JACK
Better than yesterday, but still not gone.
Jack comes back with Diane’s coffee. He leans in to hand it to her. Diane lifts her head up and kisses Jack’s forehead.
DIANE
It’ll pass.
Jack smiles.
CUT TO:
INT. BUSINESS OFFICE – DAY
John is sitting in his cubicle typing on his computer. Two of his co-workers, BRADY, a black male in his late 50s, and SYLVIA, a Latina in her mid-40s, stop by to chat.
BRADY
Hey John, did you hear about Stephen in accounting?
JOHN
Can’t say that I have.
SYLVIA
He got fired today.
JOHN
When did this happen?
SYLVIA
An hour ago.
BRADY
And I heard that Daniel and Peggy in payroll got the ax today as well. There’s talk about the company filing for bankruptcy.
Brady continues to babble until…
JOHN
Brady. Brady! Settle down. We posted eighteen and a half million in profits last quarter. You, Sylvia and I are going nowhere. We write the code that makes this company money. If anybody is getting canned today, it’s because they aren’t performing. What have I always told you both?
BRADY
If we keep to ourselves…
SYLVIA
And do our jobs…
JOHN
We’ll always have a job here. So lighten up. It’s all going to be OK.
John gets up and stretches.
JOHN
I think it’s time for some coffee.
SYLVIA
I could definitely go for a cup.
John, Brady and Sylvia go to the Break Room. MAX, a twenty-something small wimpy little thing of a man, is in the Break Room staring at a large, fully decked out, fish tank up against the wall opposite the coffee machine.
JOHN
How’s it going Max?
MAX
(to himself)
Just like these fish. They keep us just like these fish. Just like these fish.
JOHN
Max?
John puts his hand on Max’s shoulder.
MAX
(to John)
Just like the fish. We’re swimming with the sharks, just like the fish. Do you know what the sharks do to the fish? DO YOU?
JOHN
Take it easy Max.
MAX
They eat the fish! They snap them in half! They rend their flesh! They…
Out of nowhere a great white shark breaks out of the aquarium and bites Max in half. Glass, water, fish, and aquarium decorations scatter all over the room as John, Brady and Sylvia fall to the floor.
BRADY
What the fuck just happened?
SYLVIA
He was talking about the shark, and it’s like it just came out and got him.
BRADY
How is that even possible?
JOHN
(to Sylvia)
What in the hell are you talking about? Did you see a shark?
Sylvia shakes her head, no.
JOHN
(to Brady)
Did you see anything?
BRADY
I don’t know. The glass just shattered and then Max was…was…oh God it’s just so horrible.
CLOSE shot of Max’s lifeless legs in the middle of the room.
BRADY
Maybe the glass just kind of, I don’t know, cut him in half.
JOHN
If that was the case…then where’s the rest of him?
BRADY
I don’t know, but I’m getting the fuck out of here right now!
Brady and Sylvia pick themselves off of the ground and run out of the room. John looks on in horror and confusion. He wants to know what in the hell just happened.
INT. DILLO DINER – DAY
John, Brady and Sylvia are eating lunch.
BRADY
So we all saw that, right?
JOHN
Saw what?
SYLVIA
You know, the thing with the aquarium…
JOHN
I couldn’t tell you what I saw. What I’m having a difficult time reconciling what I saw and what actually happened.
SYLVIA
What do you mean? We saw the aquarium explode. That is what we saw, isn’t it?
JOHN
Yes we saw the aquarium explode, but we also saw a man go from a whole to a half in a split second. I looked at what was left of Max, they weren’t sliced open by the glass. I go hunting, a lot, and to me it looked like he was covered in teeth marks.
BRADY
Teeth marks? That’s impossible. We were in the room. Nothing else was in there with us, and I somehow doubt that the goldfish are capable of eating half a man in a matter of seconds.
SYLVIA
This is just crazy. How can any of this be actually happening. Heads are already rolling in the office today. I’m next, I know I’m next.
JOHN
Sylvia, stop talking like that. I’ve already told you, nobody here at this table will see their head roll. This whole thing is giving me a migraine. I’m gonna go to the bathroom, I’ll be back.
John grabs his head in pain and gets out of his seat and walks away.
BRADY
And on that note, I’m going to step outside and call the wife. Be back in a few.
Brady gets up from his seat and walks away.
SYLVIA
Cool. I’ll just be here, protecting my head.
(with a chuckle)
Heads are rolling? Who actually says that? Like it’s all that drastic. Always so dramatic Sylvia.
Sylvia reaches in her purse and pulls out her cell phone. She fumbles the phone and it falls to the floor hitting her foot. She reaches down by her foot putting incidentally resting her head on the table as she feels the floor for her phone. She finds the phone, then out of know where an old school executioner’s ax swings down from out of nowhere and chops her head off! She drops the phone again with blood streaming down her arm. John returns and finds her beheaded.
JOHN
(addressing everybody in the diner)
What in the hell happened here? Somebody saw this. Who saw this happen?
The diner is silent. Everyone is just as blown away as he is.
JOHN
People just don’t get their fucking heads lopped off! It just doesn’t happen. WHAT IS GOING ON HERE?
*** The story is continued in the rest of the full 140 page script. Hopefully I’ll get this script redrafted and completed soon and then I can attempt to shop it around. You don’t happen to know any Producers, do you? ***
