Love
Death
Travel
By;
Brandon Green
(WGA#1280866)
-A Doors tribute-
OPENING SCENE
EXT: Night-Tangie Town
John Rison and Maggie M’Gill are walking after dark, laughing and talking as they make their way through a field of tall desert grass, arriving at a campsite celebration. Maggie leads the way through crowds of free spirited people cooking, camping, drinking and getting high, while singing and dancing to the beat of feel good music being played all around.
MAGGIE
There they are!
EXT: Tangie Town-Sitting around a fire pit
As John and Maggie M’Gill approach a fire pit, a group of friends are hanging around, laughing, singing and telling stories. John and Maggie sit down, joining the circle of friends.
MAGGIE
Hey guys! What’s up? This is my friend, John. (Everyone nods and says hello) John, these are my friends, Robby and JIM, that I was telling you about. (John shakes hands with the two men) And this is everyone! (Maggie motions around the fire pit, as everyone nods and says hello, before turning back to Robby and JIM) You guys ought to interview him. He’s got an amazing story!
JOHN
Hey guys, nice to meet you. It’s really no big deal…
MAGGIE
Sure it is! Don’t be shy, tell them your story!
JIM
Yeah, tell us your story!
CIRCLE OF FRIEND
(Enthusiastically) Yeah! C’mon! What’s your story?! Tell us your story!
JOHN
(Laughs) Ok, ok. (Pauses) Well…I guess it all really started when I was a kid, around the age of five.
John’s voice trails off as he begins telling the story of his journey through childhood up to the present day.
EXT Morning – Backyard of home
Young John Rison, age 6, is outside by himself, playing with his toys.
JOHN
Please listen to me children. You are the ones who will rule the world. Children of the caves will let their secret fires glow.
INT: In kitchen
John’s mom is staring at him through the window and then at dark, scary pictures he has drawn of death, spirits, and Native Americans, that are too graphic and disturbing to her.(Note: These drawings are to be used as premonitions later in the script.)
EXT: Backyard
John is attempting to catch a grasshopper. Mom angrily calls John in for breakfast.
MOM
Johnny! Come eat breakfast!
Just then, John catches the grasshopper. Surprised and excited, John jumps up and runs to a storage shed at the side of the house, where he finds an empty jar. John quickly puts the grasshopper in the jar, before running inside.
INT: At kitchen table
Dad is busy reading the newspaper. The headline reads, “Unborn Living, Living Dead – Bullet Strikes the Helmet’s Head.” John runs inside, sits down and plunks the jar with the grasshopper on the table.
JOHN
Ode to a grasshopper. I think I’m going to open a little shop, a place where they sell things. I think I’ll call it Grasshopper. <Flash of shop> I’ll have a big, green grasshopper out there. <Back to kitchen> Have you seen my grasshopper, mama? Looking real good.
MOM
(Angrily) Get that off the table and eat your breakfast. Your grandfather will be here soon!
DAD
(Protective of his son) Have mercy on your poor son!
INT: front door, Doorbell rings
Mom walks away frustrated and mumbling under her breath.
Grandpa Ray is seen smiling and waving through the screen door.
GRANDPA RAY
Hi ya mate’! You ready to go?
John nods and runs to greet Grandpa Ray.
EXT: Late morning-At the beach
Grandpa Ray and John are walking along the beach when they come upon a bench. Grandpa Ray sits down and puts John on his lap.
GRANDPA RAY
Son, I’m goin’ crazy from livin’ on the land. Got to find my shipmates and walk on foreign sands.
JOHN
What? Where are you going?
GRANDPA RAY
Still one place to go. It’s right back where I came...(looks in the distance) The Palace of Exile.
JOHN
What will you do there?
GRANDPA RAY
I’ll be doing time in the universal mind. Someday, I’ll tell you all about it.
JOHN
Someday, I’ll be your shipmate!
GRANDPA RAY
Who could ask for anything more? (laughs) In that case, I am going to be looking for a new ship! You’re a special boy with really special talents. Don’t ever let anyone tell you different! (Pauses) Can you tell me what you remember from that morning on our road trip last summer? Do you remember? Tell me the first thing you see?
John’s Road Trip Flashback
EXT: Desert highway
John, age 5, is on a family road trip with Dad driving, Mom in the front seat and Grandpa Ray in the back seat with sleepy John. Driving at dawn, in the middle of the desert, they come upon dead and dying Native Americans scattered all over the highway, beside a turned over truck. Dad and Grandpa Ray get out of the car to see if they can help. John is watching from the car and experiences his first taste of death. As Dad and Grandpa Ray tend to a pair of Natives. Suddenly, John sees the two Native spirits standing over their dead bodies, looking at him, as Dad and Grandpa Ray bless their former bodies. In a state of shock and confusion, John watches as the Native spirits approach him and then feels them jump into his body.
EXT: Back at beach bench
John is squinting his eyes tightly shut.
JOHN
I know they are there, I can feel them, but I can’t see their face in my mind. (Sighs and opens his eyes) My mom thinks I’m crazy. She said… (Pauses and looks away) nothing...
GRANDPA RAY: Why won’t you tell me what she said?
JOHN
(Looking back at Grandpa Ray) She said she is going to rid me of my demons.
GRANDPA RAY
Pay no mind to that kind of talk! She knows not what she says and if she says I never loved you, you know she is a liar. (Pauses) Listen, how would you like to meet those spirits within? They’re not scary, ya know. They are your friends, your guides. Don’t be afraid.
JOHN
Can’t you see that I am not afraid?
Grandpa Ray
(laughs) I can! Now then, lie down.
John lies down on the bench, resting his head in Grandpa Ray’s lap, as Grandpa Ray begins chanting in a hypnotic tone.
GRANDPA RAY
Now, take ten deep breaths and relax your body.
John takes his breaths.
GRANDPA RAY
(Takes a deep breath and exhales)Once I had a little game. I liked to crawl back in my brain. I think you know the game I mean. I mean the game called go insane. You should try this little game. Just close your eyes, forget your name, forget the world, and forget the people and we’ll erect a different steeple. This little game is fun to do. Just close your eyes, no way to lose. And I am right here. I’m going to release control. We’re breaking through. Surrender to the waiting worlds.
Native Vision Pt. 1
EXT: Desert
Suddenly, John is in the middle of the desert with the two Native spirits staring at him face to face. As the Natives speak, their voices echo and bounce off each other.
NATIVE #1 (Man)
Wild child, full of grace.
NATIVE #2 (Woman)
Savior of the human race. Your cool face.
NATIVE #1
Natural child. Terrible child. Not your mother’s or your father’s child.
NATIVE #2
You’re our child, screamin’ wild.
Just then, both Natives look away as if something has distracted them. The sound of quarreling voices are heard faintly in the distance, growing louder and louder.
INT: Middle of the night – John’s bedroom
John awakens abruptly to the sound of his parents arguing in the living room. John begins quietly sobbing, as he climbs out of bed. Walking towards the living room, John stops short and quietly listens to his parents arguing for a moment.
INT: Living room
Mom and Dad are standing in the living room, arguing about John’s behavior. Mom is quite upset and attacks dad, who tries to defend his son.
MOM
Have you seen the pictures he’s been drawing? They are not normal! He’s getting too far out, he’s gone wild, we got to stop that child!
DAD
He’s a creative child and nothing more. Just leave him be! Let him do his thang!
MOM
Well, I don’t like the way he does his thang… whatever it is. He talks to himself for God’s sake!
John enters the room distraught and sits on the floor. Mom and Dad stop quarreling. Dad walks over to John and kneels down to whisper something unheard in his ear, while mom glares from across the room. John nods yes a couple times and then stands up. Dad hugs John and stands up as well.
DAD
(out loud) Son, I have to leave. They have assigned me to Korea for duty and I don’t know when I’ll be back, but listen, I want you to be on your best behavior for your mom, ok?
Mom gives John a wicked smirk, as she walks over and stands beside Dad. John, starting to sob again, cries out, as he throws himself on Dad’s leg.
JOHN
No Dad, please don’t go! Take me with you!
Dad gently pulls John off of his leg and bends over putting his arm around John.
DAD
I’m sorry son. I can’t. But, we can talk about it more in the morning, okay? So go on and get back to bed, alright?
Getting a little misty eyed, Dad stands up and pats John on the shoulder, before turning and leaving the room.
DAD
Goodnight son.
JOHN
G’night Dad.
John is looking down the hall after Dad, when Mom grabs his arm and leans in close, before snidely responding to his outburst.
MOM
I’m going to set you straight. Oh yes! I will rid you of your demons. Starting next week, you will be going to seminary school, where you will learn to be a good little Christian! Sweet dreams.
John looks scared
EXT: John walking to seminary school - age 6 to 15
(Note: While John is walking to school, you see his age progress from 6 to 15, using different actors using time lapse photography)
JOHN
(singing) School days, school days, good old fashion rule days.
EXT: Seminary schoolyard
At school, John is a loner and his classmates pick on him for it. With no real friends, he keeps to himself and reads many of the same books that influenced Jim Morrison, like Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road”.
INT: John’s classroom
The class is quietly reading when a student enters and hands the nun a note.
NUN
John, please report to the Head Minister’s office.
INT: Head Minister’s office
John enters and quietly closes the door behind him.
HEAD MINISTER
(Standing, looking out the window)Please have a seat, John. (John sits) God is a supreme being that knows all and...(pauses)I... .
JOHN
(Interrupts) I know you didn’t invite me in here for a lecture on God. What are you trying to tell me?
HEAD MINISTER
John (pauses) may the lord be with you. Your father has died.
JOHN
(Stunned and confused) What?! No! How can this be? I just got a letter from him the other day! What happened?!
HEAD MINISTER
I’m sorry, John. I don’t know the details, but your mother will be here shortly, to pick you up.
JOHN
(fighting tears) I guess I’d better go now. I know I have to go now. (John abruptly stands up and turns to leave.)
HEAD MINISTER
Wait! John! Where are you going? Wait for your mother!
JOHN
I have to go!
John turns and runs out of the office, flinging the door wide open, leaving only the sound of his quick running footsteps to be heard down the hall of lockers.
Montage-Dad’s death, John’s disrupted adolescence
We now watch as John goes through the motions of the events pertaining to his father’s death. We see John at his father’s funeral, as a military man tries to comfort him in his time of grief, but he cannot be consoled. John’s life takes a rebellious turn, as we see him speaking his mind, becoming more defiant and taking his frustrations out on society and his mother whom he can’t stand. We can see the anger growing within John as he is seen sneaking out to see rock bands and getting into fights. As John begins experimenting with smoking pot and drinking, his childhood visions begin to manifest into his consciousness.
EXT: Morning-Seminary school classroom
The bell rings. Everyone rushes to their seats.
NUN
Today we are going to discuss the power of prayer. The good Lord has given us all a voice through prayer.
John rolls his eyes, as the nun turns from the class and begins writing on the chalkboard, while sounding out her sentence.
NUN
You… can… petition… the Lord… with prayer…(Turning to face the class) Petition the Lord with prayer!!!
JOHN
(Stands up and shouts) You cannot petition the Lord with prayer!
NUN
(Appalled) Blasphemy! May god be merciful on your soul!
JOHN: (Spiteful) Don’t pity me, you sheep!
NUN
That’s enough, John! Go to the Head Minister’s office immediately!
The class is heard “oooh-ing”, as John kicks his chair backwards and stands up abruptly. Striding across the room with cool ease, John stops at the door and turns to face the class. Crossing both arms, John flips everybody off, before forcefully pushing the door open and walking out of the classroom.
INT: Head Minister’s office
The Head Minister is in the hallway talking with a nun, when John sits down in a stiff chair, in the Head Minister’s office. John is looking around at all the certificates and awards on the office walls, when the Head Minister walks into the room and begins lecturing him.
HEAD MINISTER
John, your defiance and unwillingness to be a member of this school, leaves me no choice but to expel you.
JOHN
(condescendingly): Maybe YOU can petition the Lord with prayer! Screw this place! I’m out of here!
John storms out of the Head Minister’s office and slams the door behind him, shaking all the certificates and awards on the wall.
EXT: Late Morning-walking home
John is seen lighting a joint and smoking it as he rocks out, humming along to the soundtrack, on his walk home. Suddenly, John begins seeing flashes of light, causing him to stumble and fall to the ground when just as suddenly the flashes stop. John was awakened at day-fall by a worried gardener. (the gardner is shown looking like the Native spirit within. John stares for a minute, and in a blur the gardener's real face is shown) John, stands up and brushes himself off, he finds the joint still burning on the sidewalk. Quickly looking around, John picks it up, thanks the gardener, and begins smoking it again, as he continues walking home.
INT: Home, afternoon
Mom, drinking a scotch on the rocks, is expecting John and as he enters the house, she walks up and slaps his face.
MOM
(slurring her words)How dare you get kicked out of the school of God!
John feels the sting of her hand for a moment, before turning to face her again.
JOHN
You mean the institution of lost souls? It’s a blessing that I was kicked out... (John turns to leave the room)
MOM
(grabbing John) What do you think the other parents will say about us? Huh? Doesn’t that bother you? Yes, your father died, but we must move on!
JOHN
(pulling away) Move on? Move on?! Yeah, I see the only place you’ve moved on to is the bottle! Face it! You’ve lost faith in yourself, and your “God”.
Mom’s stiffness turns to defeat as she collapses in a chair and begins crying. John sighs, walks over and kneels beside her, gently taking the glass out of her hand.
JOHN
Will you stop the pain? You’re playing warden to your soul. I never saw a woman so alone.
Mom looks up at John through her tears and pushes him away.
MOM
(Crying) Get out of here!
John stands up and turns to leave the room.
MOM
(Desperate) Wait! What am I going to do?
JOHN
(stops, but doesn’t face her) I can’t seem to find the right lie.
John walks out of the room, leaving mom crying in the shadows, alone. (fade to black)
Montage – John’s Transformation (age 18)
This part of the script will show John Rison transformed from an introvert to a defiant, rebellious and inquiring leader. Having been kicked out of seminary school, John is now a senior at the local public high school, where he makes friends with other troubled youths, who regard him as their leader. John is funny, entertaining and very intuitive, but is also a very complex and emotional individual who puts on a mask of a hardened soul for his own protection. John now also has a girlfriend, an unhappy girl, who is desperate for acceptance among her peers at school, but clings to John for comfort, security and attention. She works at Soul Kitchen, a local hangout for older, twenty-something, cool kids. It’s here where John starts to dabble in harder drugs, as the visions begin to manifest into his consciousness. John attempts to unlock their hidden meanings, but still can’t make any sense of them. As time goes by, John becomes more and more frustrated with all the bullshit at his school, among the popular kids and the faculty. Rebellion and attention and approval seeking, John is ready to make it known that he won’t just sit and be quiet about it.
INT: Early Evening - Soul Kitchen Restaurant
John enters from the back door of Soul Kitchen and kisses the unhappy girl on the cheek, before proceeding to a table of friends and female groupies. John solicits his friends to help come up with a master plan of ways to raise havoc at the school dance.
JOHN
So… The school dance is tonight…
FRIENDS&GROUPIES
Yeah! Alright! Yeah! What are we gonna do?!?!
JOHN
We can plan a murder or start a religion! (Everyone laughs) So, here’s what I’m thinking…
John’s dialog trails off, as everyone is seen huddling around the table scheming. John looks up and catches a glimpse of a car stopped at a red light outside. The lone female driver’s red hair is blowing in a sunshine breeze. Time stands still as John becomes mesmerized by the sight of her. Back inside the Soul Kitchen, John appears to have zoned out. A friend waves a hand in from of John’s face.
FRIEND
Hey man, hello? You in there?
JOHN
(blinks and shakes it off) Yeah!(Laughs)I’m here.
John glances back out to the stoplight, but the girl is gone. Just then, the unhappy girl’s voice is heard sounding from the speaker of a large clock mounted on the wall.
CLOCK/UNHAPPY GIRL: It’s time to close!
EXT: Public high school parking lot
John, his friends and the groupies are drinking whiskey and smoking pot before heading to the dance hall. Acid is passed around.
INT: Dance Hall
People are dancing and having good, wholesome fun when John and his friends arrive intoxicated and confrontational, as they walk around the dance hall, shoulder bumping male students and grabbing at and flipping the dresses of female students in passing, while the groupies spike the punch. After a few minutes, the boys shut and lock all the doors, as John hops up on stage, and grabs the microphone. John begins to lecture. The faculty rushes the stage and tries to grab his feet in an effort to pull him down, but he continually dodges their attempts. John’s unhappy girlfriend is watching the spectacle from the front row and is growing angry, as the crowd gathers before the stage.
JOHN
You’re all a bunch of fucking idiots letting people tell you what you’re going to do, letting people push you around. How long do you think it’s going to last? How long are you going to let them push you around? How long?! Maybe you like it. Maybe you like being pushed around. Maybe you love it and maybe you love getting your face stuck in shit! Come on, you love it, don’t ya? You love it. You’re all a bunch of slaves letting everyone push you around. What are you going to do about it? What are you going to do about it? What are you going to do about it? What are you going to do? Let’s run!
John jumps down from the stage, as he and his friends run out of the dance hall, yelling and pushing people aside, ripping streamers down and pulling the fire alarm, with the groupies sneaking out behind them a moment later.
EXT:Streets around town
John and his friends are seen running through the streets laughing, as they vandalize the neighborhood, stopping to make a quick beer run at a local convenient store, stealing booze, snacks and cigarettes on their way to the their hideout.
EXT: Hideout
Out of breath from running, John and his friends arrive one by one at their hideout, a parking lot behind an old abandoned grocery store. They are all laughing and catching their breath when John’s unhappy girlfriend arrives and creates a scene. John reaches for her in an effort to calm her down, but she slaps his hand away.
UNHAPPY GIRL
(Pushing John) What…the…FUCK, John! What the hell is wrong with you?!
John is about to say something, when suddenly, the groupies pull up in John’s friend’s Mustang Fastback and rev the engine, demanding attention and distracting John from the unhappy girl. John gets a look of wild excitement in his eyes, as his friends and the groupies call to him.
Friends and Groupies: C’mon man! It’s early! Take us for a ride!
The groupies that had driven John’s car walks over and very seductively puts his keys in his hand.
Groupie
Nice ride.
The other friends and groupies begin hooting and hollering as John watches the groupie walk back to his car, but when he looks back at the Unhappy Girl, she is glaring at him. John pleads with her.
JOHN
Hey, come on, honey. You go along home and wait for me baby. I’ll be there in just a little while. You see, I gotta go out in this car with these people and get fucked up.
UNHAPPY GIRL
(Pushes John again) You’re such an asshole!
John’s Unhappy Girlfriend storms off even angrier, cursing all the way. John watches after her for a moment, before turning back to his friends and the groupies.
JOHN
(shaking it off)Alright! Let’s Roll! Let’s try to set the night on fire!
FRIENDS&GROUPIES
(Cheering) Alright! Yeah! Let’s go!
Everyone piles into John’s car. John Burns rubber peeling out of the parking lot and onto the street, as the sound of screaming laughter is heard coming from the car.
INT: Front seat of car-Around town
John, his friends, and the groupies laugh and sing along with the radio, as they cruise the streets with the windows rolled down, and wind blowing their hair.
Groupie
Driver, where you taking us?
JOHN
Still one place to go. A place where no one will be looking for us…the cemetery!
EXT: Walking into the cemetery
John and friends stumble around the cemetery, before assembling in front of a non-de-script grave-site. Everyone is laughing and cheering, as they pair up and make themselves comfortable.
Montage-Cemetery Scene
John is seen reflecting and writing in a journal, while his friends act out this words.
JOHN (V.O.)
It was the greatest night of my life, though I still haven’t found my wife. I had my friends close together. Two made love in an ancient spot. One chased a rabbit into the dark. One balled the dead. And I gave empty servants to my head.
JOHN
(Spoken) Cemetery, cool and quiet, hate to leave your sacred lay. Dread the milky coming of the day. (Long pause) Man, what a night! Anybody want to go down to the beach, to stand there on freedom’s shore, waiting for the sun to rise?
Hey man, let’s get out of here. Anybody up for going down to the beach, to stand there on freedom’s shore, waiting for the sun to rise?
Friends and Groupies
Yeah! Hell yeah! Let’s roll.
INT: Front seat- Moonlight Drive
John takes his friends and the groupies on a moonlight drive to the beach. The groupie who had taken an interest in John is seen sitting on the console in the front seat, coming on to John. When they arrive at the beach, Johns pulls off the road and parks the car. Everyone gets out of the car and heads down to the beach, except John and the groupie who stay behind.
JOHN
I’ll be there in just a little while.
GROUPIE
I’ll wait with John.
FRIEND
Suit yourself!
John and the groupie sit in silence for a moment, as John gently turns the wheel, as if pretending to drive. The groupie starts speaking out of her mind from all the drinking and drugs. John slumps back into his seat and stares straight ahead, as cars are driving by, shining their headlights through the window. (I got this girl right beside me, but she’s out of reach.) John gets out of the car and crosses the street to a pay-phone, to call the unhappy girl, but she doesn’t answer. Disappointed, John hangs up, crosses the street and gets back into the car.
JOHN
Can’t hear my baby, though I call and call.
The groupie tries to comfort John by climbing into his lap and coming onto him, but john is disinterested and pushes her aside.
JOHN
Let’s head down to the beach.
GROUPIE
(disappointed pause) Okay.
John and the groupie, walk down to the part of the beach where their friends have built a fire and are drinking, dancing and having a good time.
JOHN
(to friends as he approaches) No eternal reward will forgive us now for wasting the dawn!
John grabs a bottle of whiskey, and takes a long swig, as he swaggers over to his friends.
JOHN
They haven’t invented music yet, so I read from the book of days...A horror story from the Gothic age, a gruesome romance from the (LA) plague.
John links arms with one of the groupies, and leads everyone to stand before the fire pit, as he begins humming, clapping, and swaying to his own beat. The friends quickly follow John’s lead, as they stand around the fire pit humming, waling, clapping, and swaying to their own beats, creating a rhythmic unity. John pulls his journal from his back pocket, and with arms upraised, begins reciting his poetry.
John
The grand highway is crowed with lovers and searchers and leavers so eager to please and forget...
John pauses, suddenly realizing that the acid has really beun to take effect, as he sees shapes of dancing light in the flames that now seem engulf him. John tries to shake it off and continues to reciting his poetry, as the beat goes on.
John
An angel runs through the sudden light. A ghost precedes us. A shadow follows us...and each time we stop...we fall..
John stumbles back from the fire pit, as the visions and sensations of the inner Native spirits begin coming to life. the fiends and groupies begin dancing wildly around the fire pit, as John begins to see a Native American celebration manifest before him. Chaos and magic are in the air. John begins stumbling around, surveying the scene wide eyed.
Visions/Flashback
Suddenly, John sees flashes of visions. Visions of fire pits, dancing and drinking, the silhouette of red hair blowing in a sunshine breeze and a hand stealing a knife, followed by a snake being struck by the same knife. John is suddenly aware of bloody Natives scattered all over the beach, as he hears a voice echo…
GRANDPA RAY(V.O.)
Wait, there has been a slaughter here.
Completely overwhelmed, John collapses to the ground, falling on his back, John passes out.
(Fade to black, then to bright light)
EXT: Dawn-Beach
John awakens suddenly, in a cold sweat. A few friends are still awake, while other are asleep on the beach.
FRIEND
Man, Let’s roll.
John nods and stands up as everyone begins waking up and collecting themselves.
INT: Front seat of car- drive home
John is shown daydreaming in the passenger seat on the drive home. There is a sense of things on his mind.
INT: Morning-Home
John quietly closes the front door behind him and walks straight to his room. Mom, looking tired and tethered, is standing in the shadows, staring at John. When he finally notices her, he’s slightly startled, but tries not to look nervous.
MOM (with a raspy voice)
The police were here looking for you last night. They indicated it was for public drunkenness, endangering the public, destruction with fines and harassment and about ten other things! What do you have to say about all this?
JOHN
I was just having some fun. I guess I’m just feeling rebellious, cause I’m just sick of all this bullshit! What do you care anyway? I’m sure you’d be happy to have me locked up!
MOM
(Snaps) Well! I’m sick of all YOUR bullshit! Maybe you SHOULD be locked up!
Mom storms off leaving John stunned for a moment. John shakes it off, walks over to the fridge and grabs a beer, cracks it open and takes a swig.
(Fade to black)
Montage – John’s rebellion (Age 18-25/Voice over by John
Years go by. John and his mother fight constantly and do their best to stay out of each other’s way. John is seen going out all night, night after night, dressed in black leather, looking for trouble and finding it. John continues to have the visions, but still cannot make any sense of them. John is seen writing in his journal, becoming frustrated, throwing his journal, ripping pages out, and burning them. John tries to wash away his pain and frustration with large amount of alcohol, harder drugs and a number of women, while also maintaining his unhealthy and unstable, on-again, off-again relationship with the unhappy girl. John hits rock bottom.
INT: Afternoon-Kitchen
John, age 25, stumbles out of bed with the usual hang over and sways to the kitchen for a quick fix, where Mom is leaning against the counter, looking at him disapprovingly.
MOM
(Condescendingly) Well, good morning!
JOHN
(under his breath) Morning…
John walks to the fridge, grabs a beer, cracks it open and takes a long swig. Mom glares.
JOHN
(Smiles) Hair of the dog, eh?
MOM
(Snaps) Look at you. Just look at you! Look at what you have become! It’s 3 o’clock in the afternoon and you just woke up?
John swigs the beer, burps and sarcastically holds up the beer can.
JOHN
Well…I woke up this morning and I got myself a beer!
MOM
Nice, John. Very nice…
JOHN
Well?!?! What do you want from me?!
Mom sighs and saunters over to the kitchen table and sits down.
MOM
(calmly) John…please, sit down. (John, sensing something is wrong, does so) I know I haven’t been much of a mother to you all these years…
JOHN
(snorts) Well…
John slumps in his chair and stares blankly at the kitchen table.
MOM
(pauses) Listen John, I don’t know how to tell you this, but...(fighting tears), but I’m dying, dying, dying.
John
(quickly looking up) What?! What do you mean, you are dying? What are you talking about?!
Mom
(starting to cry) It’s cancer. I’ve got cancer and the doctors don’t know how much time I have left...
John looks down at a pack of cigarettes on the table and reaches for them. For a moment, he is distracted by the surgeon general warning that reads “Learn to Forget”.
JOHN
(shakes his head) How long have known about this?
Mom looks down, shaking her head, but says nothing.
John
Look, I’ve already lost my father. I don’t want to lose you too! Despite you not being the best role model for a mother, I still want you around. Why didn’t you tell me about this sooner?
MOM
(Pauses) I felt guilty and perhaps a little resentful towards you. I’m scared, John! And I don’t want to inflict any more pain on you. You’ve already had enough pain in this life.
John pounds his fists on the table and curses as he stands up, grabbing and crushing the pack of cigarettes, cursing, as he turns away from his mom, and angrily throws the cigarettes into a trash can.
JOHN
Fuck! Goddamn it!
MOM
(to John’s back) Johnny, listen to me. I don’t want to argue about this with you. I just want you to know that even through we haven’t gotten along over the years, everything I have said and done, no matter how awful is seemed, I did out of what I thought was love. I know it’s hard to believe, but I want only the best for you, but at the rate you’re going, you’ll end up being left behind, sitting in jail or dead. You need help!
John turns to face his mom, but says nothing, as he stares at the floor, shaking his head in disbelief.
Mom
(pause and sign) Look, I think that you should go stay with your grandfather for awhile. (John looks up, surprised) You are in crucial need of guidance and your grandfather, while I don’t necessarily agree with his...lifestyle, is probably the only person who can provide you with the kind of wisdom you need to make a better future for yourself.
John
(confused) But...
Mom
I know, I know. He hasn’t been around since you were a child and...that’s my fault. He has always believed in you and loves you very much, and I know that you have always been fond of him, so I think it would be good for both of you to get to know each other again.
John walks back to the table and sits down besides his mom.
JOHN
Well, maybe you’re right, but I want to take care of you. I won’t leave until…
MOM
You’re a sweet boy (touches his face). I want to apologize for the way I have treated you throughout the year, but... I thought you were possessed. Do you remember the pictures you used to draw?
JOHN
(Confused) No…
MOM
You used to draw these pictures that no five year old could ever dream up. Things like death, angels and Native American spirits. You drew one of me that scared the hell out of me! Are you still having those...nightmares you had as a kid?
John averts his eyes and looks to the floor.
MOM
It’s okay, I understand. You don’t have to talk to me about it. My point is, I was always a very private person, and after your father died, I closed myself off even more and became paralyzed with fear. Having burned all my bridges, I chose solitude and now I’m dying alone. If there is one thing I want, it’s for you to find your soul and live out your dreams. Don’t end up like me...
JOHN
I need a minute to absorb all of this.
Feeling overwhelmed, John stands up and walks outside to the backyard, to meditate on his situation.
EXT: Backyard
John sits alone, reflecting, as mom watches from behind the screen door. Confused and frustrated, John ponders his future, while reliving moments of his past.
1st Flashback
INT: John (age 6) – Living room
Mom and Dad are arguing in the living room. Dad walks over to John, kneels down and whispers something unheard in John’s ear.
DAD
Do you want a little peace?
JOHN
(Nods yes)
DAD: Do you want a little soul?
JOHN
(Nods yes)
DAD
Then boy, you’ve got to do it, son. Get yourself in tact!
John Nods and stands up. Dad hugs John.
2nd Flashback
EXT: Midday-Day at beach with Grandpa Ray – John (age 6)
It is later that day on the beach and the sun is high over head. Grandpa Ray and John are fishing off the side of an old dingy boat.
GRANDPA RAY
There is much you will see with the visions. Some things you will not understand and that’s okay, just remember them and do whatever you can to get them out. Don’t worry about what anyone says! Keep drawing them, keep a journal, whatever it takes! (Pauses) John, you are a strong leader and the Captain of my ship! When you’re older and you’re ready, I’ll be here for you, cause I’m the freedom man, that’s how lucky I am! (Laughs and ruffles John’s hair) Remember John, you can do anything.(Fade to black)
INT: Afternoon-Unhappy girl’s bedroom
John’s girlfriend, the unhappy girl, is sitting on the floor in the middle of her room, playing solitaire, when John sheepishly enters the room.
UNHAPPY GIRL
(Angrily) Why did you throw the Jack of Hearts away?! It was the only card in the deck I had left to play!!!
JOHN
How did you know it was me?
UNHAPPY GIRL
You’re such an asshole! And where were you last night?! I waited up all night for your drunken, stoned ass!
JOHN
Ah baby, don’t be mad. You were really bent last night and it would have been a drag to have your energy put a damper on the good time we were having, but I’m here right now, aren’t I?
UNHAPPY GIRL
I don’t see how this is going to work if you keep acting like a little boy searching for attention, doing drugs and acting a fool!
JOHN
Well, that’s actually why I’m here. Today has been a rough day. I just found out that my mom is dying of cancer and the doctors don’t know how much longer she’s got.
UNHAPPY GIRL
(suddenly sympathetic) Oh John, I’m so sorry. Are you okay?
JOHN
I’m doing the best I can, but I came here to tell you that I’m leaving town, someday soon.
UNHAPPY GIRL
(Mood shifts back to anger) You’re what?!
JOHN
I need to get help or I’ll end up hurting myself or worse, someone else! I’m a mess! And at this point, the only person that can help me is my grandfather. (pauses) Basically, I’m going away.
UNHAPPY GIRL
(Angrier) So, you’re just gonna leave me, because you can’t deal with life? Look John, I’m really sorry you’re having these problems, but you’re acting like a selfish child! Once again, you run away from your problems, just cause life gets you down…
JOHN
(Offended) Once again, you fail to understand. You have a lot to learn. You’re an unhappy girl. You need to Tear your web away, saw through all your bars, melt your cell today. You are locked in a prison of your own device.
Unhappy girl
HA! You wish you understood me! (Starting to cry)You’re making a big mistake breaking up with ME, John Rison! You’re a fraud and an impostor, so just get the hell out of here! (John turns to leave) Wait!
John stops at the door and turns around to face her.
UNHAPPY GIRL
(calm, but still crying) Fuck, John! I’m scared too, okay?! My room is so cold. You know you don’t have to go, my babe.
JOHN
No, I better go.
The unhappy girl gives John one last pleading look through a smear of tears and eye makeup.
JOHN
(sighs) Don’t look at me with those eyes and please don’t cry.
UNHAPPY GIRL
Can you still recall the time we cried?
JOHN
You can’t believe what it does to me to see you crying! But, you’d rather cry, I’d rather fly. We had some good times, but they’re gone. I’m sorry, but I need a brand new friend. I need somebody who doesn’t need me.
UNHAPPY GIRL
(screaming and crying) Then get out of here! Go find yourself and fuck off!
JOHN
So, you really don’t care about me, do you? You just want to control me. (Shakes his head in disbelief) Good luck to you.
John reaches into his jacket pocket, pulls out the Jack of Hearts and gently tosses it into the pile of cards scattered on the floor in front of the unhappy girl. She scoffs and begins straightening the pile of cards.
JOHN
There. Now you can finish playing with yourself.
John turns and leaves the room. As the door closes behind him, the unhappy girl throws the deck of cards at the door in frustration, sending the cards flying in all directions.
INT: Evening – Home
John walks into the living room to find his mother sleeping in front of the vintage television set. The sound is off, time laps photography footage of clouds floating across the sky is being shown on the screen. (Ref: Television Skies) John places a blanket over Mom and slumps over, quietly beginning to cry beside her. Mom wakes.
MOM
Hey Johnny, are you ok?
John
(quickly sits up straight and wipes his eyes) Yeah, I’m okay. (Pauses before slumping over) No…I feel like shit. All this stuff going on with you and now I just broke up with my girlfriend. (Pauses and sighs) You know, it’s just that…I’ve been thinking and I know that I haven’t exactly been an angel and I see how I’m hurting you and others…and myself! But I don’t want to do that anymore! That isn’t really me! So…it’s over now. I want to put it behind me, so I can be here for you. (pauses) I love you, Mom.
MOM
(smiling)I love you, Johnny, you’re a noble boy and I’m so proud of you. I will like very much to spend my final days with you. (pauses) Just promise me that when the time comes, you won’t forget to go out in this world and find yourself.
John
(pauses) Alright, when the time comes, I’ll go see my grandfather and all will be well, mom.
MOM
(Smiles) I know it will be. Good night, John Rison!
Mom gets up, kisses John on the forehead and goes to her bedroom. (Fade to black)
Montage-Mom’s departure (Age 25-27)/Voice over by John
We now watch as John transforms into a sensitive and caring son, looking after his sick mother, as she deteriorates before him. John attempts to suppress his visions, as he becomes consumed with caring for his mother, but can be seen passionately writing in his journal late at night. Then one night John has a terrible dream.
Dream/Vision 1
EXT: Care scene in front of Soul Kitchen
In car 1, John, his friends and the groupies are peeling out of the Soul Kitchen parking lot in the fastback, Ford Mustang, laughing and having a good time, while driving drunk and recklessly.
(V.O.) Car stuffed with eyes
In car #2, an older 1950’s car, John’s mother is sitting in the middle of the front seat, wearing a wedding dress in a car full of six men wearing tuxedos. (Ref: Seven people took a ride. Six bachelors and their bride.)
Flashes between both cars
INT:Car 2
(young version of Mom)
Mom
Stop the car, I’m getting out!
Bachelor
Look out, there’s somebody coming, and there is nothing you can do about it!
Both cars are screaming as they collide in front of a random house.
INT: Kitchen in random house
Someone drops a drawer full of silverware on the kitchen’s linoleum floor, creating a loud crash. That person then runs into the front room of the house to tell the others about an accident, as they all run to the window to see. (The people in the house will be Maggie M’Gill and friends. A representation of Maggie knowing about John’s presence when they meet.)
Person
Have you seen the accident outside?
Person 2
Hey man, have you seen the accident outside?
INT: Car #2
John’s mom is covered in blood and bruises. The six men in the tuxedos are all unconscious. An ambulance arrives. John’s mom is heard mumbling.
Mom
Don’t let me die in an automobile. I want to die in an open field.
EXT: Open Field
John’s mom is lying in an open field. Mom narrates while the scene is acted out prophetically. (Note: This scene is shot using time lapse photography)
MOM(V.O.)
Want the snakes to suck my skin, want the worms to be my friend. Want the birds to eat my eyes, as here I lie.
Mom’s body rotting on the summer ground, covered in snakes and worms, is now shown with empty/black eye sockets staring up at birds flying, as clouds float by, (footage of television skies)and singing in an erie tone...
MOM (V.O.)
Birds of prey, flying high in the sky. Birds of prey, flying high, gently pass on by. Birds of prey, flying by, take me on your flight.
INT: Morning-John’s Bedroom
John awakes abruptly in a frantic state, calling out and looking around for his mom. Fearing the worst, John jumps out of bed and rushes to his mother’s bedroom, stumbling over his own feet, as he stops in the doorway. John’s bedridden mother is staring at the ceiling, with a look of absolute peace on her face.
John
(concerned) Mom?
MOM
(calmly) Yes.
John slowly walks to his mother’s bedside and sits beside her.
John
(pauses) How are you feeling?
MOM
(pauses, smiles, and calmly replies) This is the end. John...Can you see the light?
There is a flash of mom’s view of the ceiling, with beautiful, heavenly lights shinning down on her.
John
(looking up, but sees only the ceiling) No.
MOM
(turns to John)Promise me that you will go out and find yourself in the world.
John
I promise, I’m going,(pauses and smiles)but I need a little time, cause, I promised I would drown myself in mystic heated wine.
MOM
(barely a whisper)What was that promise that you made? (smiles and nods) Never mind. I love you, John.
John
I love you.
John takes his mother’s hand as they stare into each other’s eyes for a moment. Mom’s faint, yet peaceful smile slowly fades as she looks back up the ceiling, and then just as peacefully takes her last breath. In a stunned daze, John stares at his mother’s now lifeless body. Crying, John, says “goodbye.” A moment later, John picks up the phone on his mother’s night-stand and dials.
John
(long pause) She’s gone.
EXT: Morning - Cemetery
John is at his mother’s funeral, watching her coffin being lowered into the ground, before shoveling dirt on top of it. Afterwards, John is seen walking out of the cemetery with the few people who attended.
INT: Late morning-Home
John pulls the Ford Mustang into the driveway and turns off the engine. In the state of shock, John walks into the house, sits on the couch and stares straight ahead, out the front window. A moment later, John lashes out in frustration, as he stomps around, trashing the house, letting it all out for everything that has happened in his life. When he gets it all out of his system, he finds himself back on the couch, sitting in silence, staring out the front window. The sun rises and sets, rises, and sets. John is still wearing his suit and sitting on the couch when the mail is being dropped through a slot in the front door, onto a pile of existing mail. A letter slides off the top of the pile and away from the rest of the mail, catching John’s eye. John gets up to retrieve it and discovers that it’s a letter from his grandpa. John places the letter on the coffee table cluttered with half eaten take out and beer cans, in from of him and stares at it, pondering it for awhile. Then as the sun begins to set again, John picks up the letter and walks into the kitchen, grabs a bottle of wine labeled “Mystic Heated Wine” from the pantry and walks towards the bathroom.
INT: Bathroom
John is seen lighting the last few of several burning candles as well as some incense. He fills the bathtub with steaming hot water and proceeds to pour the entire bottle of wine into the tub, creating Mystic Heated Wine. John quickly gets undressed and jumps into the tub, letting out a huge sigh of relief. he then lights a joint and opens the letter from his grandpa. As John begins to read the letter, Grandpa Ray is heard narrating (VO) the letter. During Grandpa Ray’s narration, John looks up at the wall in front of him and sees flashes of images of what his grandpa is saying, projected on the wall.
Bathroom wall projects visions
John sees a flash of his mother waving goodbye as she walks, and disappears into a bright light, followed by a flash of grandpa waving John aboard from a docked ship, then a flash of himself standing beside a street sign in front of and old overgrown mansion that reads “Love Street”.
Grandpa Ray(V.O.)
Dear John, I’m sorry about your mother and I pray that she finds peace with God’s energy, but it is under these unfortunate circumstances that we are to be reunited and I truly look forward to your future visit. I feel it’s time for you to become my shipmate. I am excited for our future adventure together. However, before you come looking for me, there is someone I want you to meet. She has wisdom and knows what to do. She lives on Love Street and will be expecting you. Be well, son. See you soon. Love, Grandpa Ray.
Suddenly, John finds himself sitting alone in the quiet of the bathroom. He submerges his whole body in the mystic heated wine bath water and, as he does, he strangely finds himself no longer in his bathtub, but swimming in a large mass of red water. A voice echoes (girls voice) Breath underwater till the end.
As he hears this, John begins to run out of breath and panics, as he looks up and notices a light. Hoping it’s an exit, John swims to the surface for air and emerges from an indoor swimming pool in the home of a woman named Shirley, the woman who lives on Love Street. Shirley is a very spirited being in her 50’s with long brown hair, dressed fairly new aged, in spiritual inspired clothing and fancy stone jewelry. Shirley’s home is an extravagantly beautiful mansion, filled with luscious flowers, exotic plants and fresh herbs, as well as antique furniture, collectables and valuable paintings. It gives the impression of an antique road show type greenhouse.
INT: Pool-side- Love Street Mansion.
Gasping for air, John is greeted by Shirley at the edge of the pool. John catches his breath, as he takes in his surroundings.
SHIRLEY
(smiling) Hi, John. I am Shirley. I’ve been expecting you.
JOHN
(confused) Oh, right. Hi.
John passes, looking back at the pool from which he came and then back at Shirley standing before him.
JOHN
So, how do you know my grandfather?
SHIRLEY
Well...You’re grandfather and I traveled together for some time. We shared many adventures and he taught me a o about tapping into higher levels of love.
JOHN
(smiling) That sounds amazing.
SHIRLEY
(smiles and nods) Yes, it was...(pauses) So John, your grandfather and I have discussed your unique situation and in hope to help you on your journey by communicating with the Native spirits that jumped into your soul. (Shirley pauses, looking John up and down, before handing him a clean towel, and a robe) Tell you what. Dry off and come inside, so we can get started. I’m going to go make some tea. Meet me in the study at the end of the hall when you are ready.
John dries off and puts the robe on, as Shirley scurries off to make some tea.
INT: Study - Shirley’s mansion
As John makes his way to the study, he observes al the interesting antiques and artifacts that line the long hallway and fill every corner of every room. Along the way, he stops and takes a face from the ancient gallery and walks on down the hallway. The he comes to a door, and looks inside. John steps into the study and takes a seat on a chair that appears to look like a Kings chair. He continues to observe his surroundings. A moment later, Shirley enters the room with a tea set and hot tea. She pours John and then herself a cup of tea, before making herself comfortable on the couch right besides John.
SHIRLEY
(sipping tea) Now John, I am going to close my eyes and slip into a trance to communicate with those spirits and discover what is happening within your soul.
JOHN
(nervously) Uh, I’m not sure about this.
SHIRLEY
Relax. Don’t you trust your grandfather’s judgment?
JOHN
(taking a deep breath)Okay, but I’m not comfortable having people play with my mind.
SHIRLEY
(chuckles) I have no desire to mess with your mind, just encourage it to be free. Now, close your eyes. Relax your mind, body, and spirit.
John closes his eyes and takes slow, deep breaths. Shirley also closes her eyes and takes deep breaths, while taking a meditative stance. In a flash, white light surrounds Shirley and fills the room. Shirley opens her eyes and sees that the Native communicate without speaking, as subtle nods of understanding pass between them, and them and in a flash, the Natives are gone. John slowly wakes to the sound of Shirley’s voice.
SHIRLEY
Awake. Shake dreams from your hair, my pretty child, my sweet one. Choose the day, and choose the sign of your day, the day’s divinity. The first thing you see.
JOHN
(disoriented) How long have I been out?
SHIRLEY
(smiling) Oh, not too long...
JOHN
(Rubbing eyes) So, how did it go? What did you find out?
SHIRLEY
Well, I know the dream that your dreaming of and the words that you long to hear. I know your deepest secret fear...
John still looks confused, as he yawns and scratches his head. Shirley smiles and continues.
SHIRLEY
It went very well. You are in good hands, but it’s time the spirits move on from you. They have shown you all they can and now it’s up to you to make a difference. You are a natural born leader, a spiritual revolutionary hero of sorts. (Raises hands) The time is now. Open your channels, stay in and tune out. Connect to spirit. (pausing, Shirley reaches into her pocket and hands John a beautiful blue rock.) Here, I want you to have this. It will give you strength to forge ahead and offer protection on your journey. Take the highway west seven miles outside of town to get to Saturday Shores. There you will find the train station to your destination. The Natives will help guide you. Look for the signs along the way. Now GO!
Shirley waves her hand in front of John’s face. (fade to black)
INT: Bathroom
John awakes suddenly in the bathtub, shivering in what is now cold water. He looks around and notices that the incense and most of the candles have burned down to the wick. As John hops up to get out of the tub, he hears the sound of something hard hitting the bathroom floor. John looks and sees the blue rock beside the bathtub and pauses before picking it up and rubbing it between his fingers in amazement. he then blows out the remaining candles and stumbles into bed before falling asleep.
INT: Morning - John’s bedroom
JOHN(VO)
I fled the town, left the chaos and disorder back there over my shoulder.
EXT: Along the highway (Footage shot on Super 16mm)
John is seen walking seven miles west on the KINGS Highway and arriving at the train station in Saturday Shores. (note: The footage of John walking along the highway is shot in super 16mm, and it symbolizes the beginning of John’s journey and future film project for Soft Parade ending)
EXT: Train station in Saturday Shores (Normal Footage)
John makes his way to the ticket window.
Teller
You’ll have to stop in Tangie Town for the night and catch the bus into the hills tomorrow.
John acknowledges and boards the train.
EXT: Tangie Town train station
When the train pulls into the Tangie Town train station, John steps off the train and walks out to the main road. There he sees a sign on the side of the road that reads “Tangie Town Rest Stop - 7 miles”. Just then, it begins to rain. A little annoyed, but still determined, John begins walking the 7 miles to the Tangie Town rest stop. Along the way, strange people with ugly masks come out of the rain, pointing and staring, while shrew hiss and look away, as John walks down the crooked path. (Ref: People are strange when you’re a stranger. Women seem wicked when you’re unwanted. Streets are uneven when you’re down.) Feeling lost and unwelcome, John reaches into his pocket, pulls out the blue rock and clutching it in his hand, he continues walking down the road. In the distance, he can see what appears to be, a small town. Suddenly, the rain stops and the sun shines through the clouds. As John reaches the end of the road, he finds a little girl standing there alone, looking confused and talking to herself. John approaches her and kneels down to her level.
JOHN
(confused) Are you okay? You look scared. Who scared you?
LITTLE GIRL: The ancient lunatic
John looks around and sees the townspeople scurrying about, as the shopkeepers are closing up for the day and heading home, but no one looks threatening. Confused, John turns back to the little girl.
JOHN
Well, don’t you worry about no lunatic. He won’t hurt you anymore. (Pauses) You’re lost little girl? Tell me, who are you?
LITTLE GIRL
Don’t you recognize me? I’m your daughter.
Confused, John stares at the little girl, trying to recognize her, unsure of whether she is real or just another vision.
JOHN
(In a hushed voice) Why were you born?
LITTLE GIRL
To be loved by you, Daddy.
The little girl’s response further confuses John, when suddenly a voice is heard coming from the doorway of a little shoe shop.
MAGGIE
Don’t mind her. She thinks every man is her father.
John quickly looks up to see Maggie M’Gill, with red hair glowing in the sun, walking towards him.
EXT: Vision Flashback
Silhouette of red hair blowing in the sunlight breeze (from Soul Kitchen scene)
EXT: Back in on road with Maggie
MAGGIE
(Maggie stares at John like she knows something familiar about him) (pauses) (In a hushed voice) Unfortunately, her dad died in a car accident, but she believes that he is still alive somewhere. (Turning to the little girl) Run on home now, Roen! I hear your momma calling.
In the distance a voice is heard calling for Roen. The little girl turns and runs away, but John is now too busy staring at Maggie in a sort of awe, to notice. Maggie turns back to John and blushes when she catches his stare.
JOHN
(clearing his throat) Um, I know this may sound strange and maybe it was just a dream, but my eyes have seen you. Won’t you tell me your name?
MAGGIE
(blushing, offering her hand) I’m Maggie. Maggie M’Gill.
JOHN: (Still in a daze, shakes her hand) You from around here?
MAGGIE
(smiles) I live uptown, I live downtown, I live all around…(Pauses) So, what’s your name? what’s your story? What brings you around here?
JOHN
(Smiling) Well, my name is John Rison,(Pause) Is there a place to get a drink around here?
MAGGIE
Hmmm…well, everything around here is closing up, but there’s still one place to go. The Whisky Bar! Shall we?
JOHN
Let’s roll! Show me the way to the (next) Whiskey Bar!
MAGGIE
(Laughs) Come on, this way.
John and Maggie walk a few shops down, to “The Whiskey Bar” and get comfortable in a booth towards the back of the bar.
INT: Booth at the Whiskey Bar, evening
John is seen telling Maggie his story over a couple of drinks.
MAGGIE
WOW! That’s quite a story to say the very least!
JOHN
(laughs) I guess so…(Pauses)
MAGGIE
(Pauses and sighs) No really It is! Listen, I know these two creative filmmakers who interview interesting travelers and document their journeys. You should let them film the rest of your adventures. You should let them film the rest of your untold story!(John marvels at Maggie’s enthusiasm) You really should! You really have an interesting story to tell!
JOHN: (laughing) Well, I don’t know about all that...
MAGGIE
Don’t worry. These guys are true artists. They’ll do your story justice, while allowing people to follow you on your journey. (John hesitates) Come on. Just say you’ll think about it. I don’t know anyone with a story as remarkable as yours. It needs to be heard!
JOHN
(laughing) Ok, I’ll think about it.
MAGGIE
(laughing) Fair enough.
They take off down the street.
Maggie’s Montage/Flashback
We see the montage of events from Maggie’s perspective, acted out prophetically, as told by John.
JOHN
(VO) Maggie M’Gill was the minister’s daughter and lived with her father and brother in the mansion on top of the hill, just outside of Tangie Town. Maggie was a free spirit, but her strict father didn’t approve and wanted to send her away to private school to get a proper education. If she refused, she would be banned from the will.
Maggie is seen having heated argument with her father at the dinner table, while her brother sits quietly, looking at his food. In a fit of rage, Maggie lashed out at her father, throwing and breaking fine china.
MAGGIE
NO, I will not go! I prefer the feast of friends to this (giant) family!
Maggie’s father falls back in his chair, clutching his chest in pain, as Maggie storms out of the room and through the mansion to her bedroom, where she grabs her guitar and a suitcase full of clothes and shoes, sneaks down the hall to steal money from her brother’s room, and runs away. Maggie is seen walking down the long driveway of her father’s estate, crying tears of pain and joy for the start of a new life.
JOHN(VO)
So, Maggie went down to Tangie Town, where she quickly ran out of money and got mixed up with the wrong crowd.
EXT: Around Tangie Town
Five outlaws are sen running through the streets robbing and terrorizing the people of Tangie Town, when the Outlaw Leader comes upon Maggie, standing in fron of some of the town’s shops, playing her guitar and singing for donations, with nothing but her suitcase of clothes and shoes. The outlw leader takes a liking to Maggie and takes her under his wing, wining and dining her, spoiling her with gifts and furs, as the people of Tangie Town look in disapprovingly. Then, one night, Maggie witnesses the outlaw leader stabbing one of the town’s people, who then dies in the street.
JOHN(V.O.)
Suddenly, Maggie realized just how dark and dangerous the company she was keeping was, but by then, the people of Tangie Town no longer trusted her and were fearful of her presence. The people she once loved shied away and turned their backs on her. Maggie was completely shot out and had nowhere to turn.
Maggie is seen sneaking around town, hiding from the outlaws, while seeking refuge. Maggie knocks on several doors that go unanswered, as the town’s people watch from behind closed curtains. “Wanted” posters of Maggie and the five outlaws that read “Killer on the Road”, are put up around town.
JOHN: (V.O.)
“Wanted” posters of Maggie and the five outlaws went up around town. Maggie was scared and devastated, but also felt that since she hadn’t actually done anything wrong, the outlaw lead owed it to her to set her reputation straight, so one day she went to the devil and asked him to pay, but the devil was wiser. He said...
(Outlaw Leader/John VO) It’s time to repent.
JOHN (V.O.)
He asked her to give back the money she spent. With no money to pay the outlaw, Maggie stole a horse and left town. Well, My wild love went riding, she rode all the day. She rode to the sea and gathered together some shells for her head. Then she rode and she rode on. She rode and she rested and then she rode on. She rode on for a while, then stopped for an evening and laid her head down. She rode on to Christmas, she rode to a farm, she rode to Japan Town, and then came back and reentered Tangie Town. By this time, the weather had changed 1 degree, so she asked for the people to let her go free. The good people of Tangie Town decided to forgive Maggie and over time, she regained their trust again.
INT: Back at Whiskey bar-booth
MAGGIE
When I returned from my travels, I learned that while I was gone, not only did the outlaws clear out of town, but my daddy got drunk and died. And just like daddy said, he left me no will, so I’ve been running the little shoe shop in town and when I’m sad and I’m feeling blue, I buy myself a new pair of shoes!(Laughs) But...since my mother died many years before, when my daddy got drunk and died, he left everything to my brother, but my brother ran off with the money, abandoning the old mansion and I’ve just been there ever since! I guess I’ve always just felt that something still lie ahead for me here…
JOHN
Do you know what that could be?
MAGGIE
(laughs) I’m desperately in need of some stranger’s hand.
JOHN
Well then, do you think I’m the one?
MAGGIE
(giggles) Possibly! Come on and run with me! Run with me on a new adventure! I feel like I’ve been waiting for something…someone! Where have you been?! (laughs)
JOHN
Well, I’d love to run away with you, but I am leaving town tomorrow. (Smiles) But I’ll come. Maybe the timing will be perfect. Besides, if you go real slow you’ll like it more and more. Don’t move to fast, if you want your love to last!
Maggie smiles shyly and holds up and imaginary camera, then winks as if to take a picture with her mind. John looks confused.
MAGGIE
(Shyly) I just want to photograph your soul, so I have something to remember you by, while you’re gone.
Still smiling shyly, Maggie passes the imaginary camera to John.
MAGGIE
Now, you should photograph mine!
Amused, John takes the imaginary camera and puts it into his imaginary shirt pocket and smiles, as he pats the imaginary pocket on his chest.
JOHN
but, I won’t need your picture until we say goodbye.
MAGGIE
(Smiling back) Ok, well I’m not ready to say goodbye yet, come on, come with me to meet my friends. I even know a place we can crash. Then you can head out in the morning. Alright?
JOHN
Alright, alright. Let’s roll.
EXT: Sunset - walking through The ancient lake
On their way, they pass by the ancient lake, where someone is watching from the trees. It’s a spy in the house of love. Suddenly, five outlaws that live by the side of the lake come out from behind trees and bushes and surround John and Maggie, as they hear the shrill laughter of the ancient lunatic in the trees. John and Maggie are startled by the sudden ambush. The outlaw leader is laughing as he approaches them.
OUTLAW LEADER
(taunting) Maggie fucking M’Gill. What brings you to these parts? On your way to meet up with your freaks for friends? Who’s this? You’re new boyfriend? (turns to John) Let me introduce myself. I’m a Sunday trucker, Christian motherfucker! (Laughter overcomes the outlaws)
MAGGIE
(nervously)Come on. We’re just passing through.
The outlaws close in around John and Maggie. The outlaw leader is now standing inches from John’s face, as he reaches over and caresses Maggie’s cheek.
OUTLAW LEADER
What business do you have with our sweet Maggie?
Maggie slaps his hand away.
JOHN
My business has nothing to do with you or your friends.
OUTLAW LEADER
Oh, but it does!
The outlaw leader quickly grabs John and puts a knife to his throat. As he does this, John catches a quick glimpse of the knife and recognizes it from one of his earlier visions.
Vision Flash
Hand stealing a knife.
EXT: Back at The ancient lake
John tries to shake the outlaw leader, but can’t. The other outlaws roar with laughter.
OUTLAW LEADER
Not so tough anymore, are ya?
MAGGIE
Goddamn it! Leave him alone! He has nothing to do with anything you might think. He’s just a traveler passing through and I’m just showing him the way to Tangie Town so he can unwind.
OUTLAW LEADER
(Tightening his grip on John) Is that so?
SECOND OUTLAW
Look at him! He’s sweatin’!
Laughter overcomes the outlaws. The outlaw leader then releases John and pushes him into the arms of the other outlaws who continue to restrain him. The outlaw leader now approaches Maggie.
OUTLAW LEADER
Why do you choose to help random nobody’s? You used to be so dangerous and callous! A rebel! The finest of gypsy! Then one day you got soft, weak and entirely broken. (Looks her up and down) And now look at you! You’re all washed up! You’re pathetic!(Outlaws grunt/laugh)
MAGGIE
No, I just evolved. Something you obviously know nothing about. (Outlaw leader grunts) I realized that love and goodness are more powerful than hate, fear and corruption.
OUTLAW LEADER
Oh yeah?
The outlaw leader lunges, grabbing Maggie, and tries to grope her as she struggles to get away. John tries to break free from the other outlaws to no avail.
MAGGIE
(struggling) Get the fuck off me! Let go! Let us go, please?! I’m asking you! Come on!
OUTLAW LEADER
Why don’t you get down on your knees and beg! (Restraining Maggie and turning to John) Do you know how I know Maggie? Of course not! Did she tell you how she wasn’t going to inherit any money from her dad, so she stole money from her brother and took off down to Tangie Town, cause people down there really like to get it on?! (Thrusting his pelvis on Maggie as she and John struggle to escape) Yeah, sweet little Maggie, the minister’s daughter. Well, when I came along Maggie had nothing but a suitcase and a song. I took her in and she became my queen. You know, she liked it too, cause it was always only the best for THIS princess. Then one day, she just decided to run away. There is one problem, she never paid her debt. Maggie owes me money. Now, here she is, placing herself, and YOU, in danger.
Strong arming Maggie, the outlaw leader quickly puts his knife to Maggie’s throat and growls through his teeth.
OUTLAW LEADER
I can cut her right now and leave her to die with no remorse….So Maggie, (Groping her again) do you have some money for me?
John closes his eyes and in his mind is calling out.
JOHN
(VO/echo) Save us!
Suddenly, whispers are heard through the trees as a wild breeze rushes through, blowing all around the outlaws. The outlaws now appear scared. The shrill laughter of the ancient lunatic is heard echoing through the trees as the outlaws push John and Maggie to the ground in their haste to run away. The outlaw leader is left strong arming Maggie, as John rises to his feet and slowly moves towards them. Not feeling so brave alone, the outlaw leader also pushes Maggie to the ground and, as he too runs away, he can be heard making his final threat.
OUTLAW LEADER
I will get you….soon! Next time we meet, you better have my money or you’ll BOTH die! I’ll be watching you, so don’t even try to leave town!
In shock, and as the wind and leaves blow all around them, John helps Maggie to her feet an together they run in the opposite direction. When they get a safe enough distance away, they stop running and catch their breath, before continuing on their way.
JOHN
What was that?!
MAGGIE
I don’t know! Sounds like guns, thunder! Where did that wild breeze come from?! It was so strong!
JOHN
No, I’m talking about the outlaws!! It’s nice to put a name to the faces of the outlaws.
MAGGIE
(ashamed) Oh yeah, that...(signs, begins walking again) I told you he’s awful! And he’s as violent as he appears too! God! I was so young and stupid!
Keeping with her stride, John reaches out and takes Magie by the hand, pulling her in close, to comfort her. Blushing, Magie clears her throat and changes the subject.
MAGGIE
So...Did you do that with the wind and all?
JOHN
I don’t know! In my mind I asked for our protection and then we were set free! Pretty crazy, huh?
MAGGIE
(laughs) Pretty awesome! WOW! I can’t wait for you to meet my friends. C’Mon, we are almost there.
Still holding hands, Maggie tugs John along, as they start making their way through tall desert grass.
JOHN(V.O.)
As we continued to make our way here, Maggie told me about the people and origins of Tangie Town. She told a story about a bunch of young people that got fed up with where they were living and what was happening. they got a group of them together and went out to the desert to live away from everyone and every night, they’d build a fire and they’d gather around and they’d sing songs and discuss what was happening and where they’re at and all that.
John’s story comes full circle
The following scene is also the opening scene, as John’s campfire story now comes full circle to the present situation.
EXT: Heart of Tangie Town-campfire
John Rison and Maggie M’Gill are walking after dark, through a field of tall grass, laughing and talking as they make their way to Tangie Town.
EXT: Tangie Town-Sitting around a fire pit
John trails off as he is seen telling his story to the very interested group of friends. (Note: The camera will do a 360 pan around the campfire of friends. When the pan has come full circle back to John, it will be as if the group of friends has heard John’s entire story.)
JOHN
That’s how I got here with Maggie
ROBBY
Holy shit! What a trip! We really need to document the remaining journey to your soul!
JOHN
(Flattered) Thanks man, but this is a little bit personal. I think I need to do this on my own.
ROBBY
Hey, I totally understand and respect where you’re coming from, but if you change your mind….we would love to be there to document it.
JIM
Yeah, we need someone or something new, something else to get us through.
Maggie
(touching John’s arm) It’s you...
JOHN
Okay, okay. I’ll think about it, but in the meantime, let’s set the night on fire!
The group of friends cheer and embraces John, welcoming him into their circle of friends. Everyone continues singing, dancing and having a good time until the wee hours of the night. John and Maggie are seen seeking refuge in a (Painted)green hotel down the road, and stealing kisses in the dark. (Fade to black)
Vision Dream 2
John awakes in his dream, in the green hotel room bed, with a strange creature groaning beside him. Sweat oozes from its shiny skin. Suddenly, John sees flashes of Native American maiden chanting.
JOHN
Has this dream stopped?
Suddenly the creature is gone and it is Maggie who is beside John in the bed. A huge snake medallion dangles before them. Show footage The snake was pale gold, glazed and shrunken.
JOHN (V.O.)
We were afraid to touch it.
John and Maggie are seen reaching for the medallion, only to pull back in fear. John looks at Maggie lying beside him.
JOHN (V.O.)
She was beside me, oh so young, her dark red hair.
Maggie rolls onto John’s chest and looks up at him with pleading eyes.
MAGGIE
I can’t live through each slow century of her moving.
Suddenly, Maggie sits upright in the bed and points to the bathroom.
MAGGIE
Now run to the mirror in the bathroom! Look! She’s coming in here!
JOHN
(Sits up and looks) I see the bathroom is clear, (looking around the room) but I think that somebody’s near. I’m sure that someone is following me.
John jumps out of the bed, runs to the bathroom and stares at himself in the mirror, while clutching the sink with white knuckles.
JOHN
I can’t see your face in my mind.
Suddenly, in a swirling haze, the grown Native girl appears in the mirror, topless with eyes in her nipples and freedom in her eyes, acting all insane. Her eyes bear down on John and he can’t seem to move. Just then, he falls to the floor where his cheeks slide down the smooth tile.
JOHN
Who are you? Do you just want to play with me, to freak out or to be free, my dear?
GROWN NATIVE GIRL
I am the fair sister and I am here to show you the way. (Echoes) Follow me down, follow me down… Now, wake up!
INT: Morning – Green Hotel
John awakes abruptly in the green hotel room bed, wrapped in a pile of sheets and appearing flustered. Maggie comes to him from the other side of the room where she has been packing her things.
JOHN abruptly wakes up in a sweat.
MAGGIE
Are you okay? Looked like you were summoning the dead with the way you were dreaming.
JOHN
What time is it?!
MAGGIE
12:08 (clock shown)
JOHN
Ok, I’ve still got time until my bus leaves.
MAGGIE
(Pleased with herself) AND! I got you a ride to the bus station!
Feeling frisky, John grabs Maggie and pulls her back into bed.
JOHN
You’re so good. Come on, girl! Give me some love! One for tomorrow and one just for today. Love me two times, I’m going away!
John and Maggie start kissing and rolling around in the sheets.
EXT: Bus station
John is in the bus line with Maggie finishing off the story of his dream. (Maggie: whatever it means, you will know the answer.) People are boarding the bus as John and Maggie come up the front of the bus. They stop to say their goodbyes.
MAGGIE
How long do you think you’ll be gone?
JOHN
Don’t know. It may take a week, it may take longer.
MAGGIE
(looks at the ground, nervously) You know, we could be so good together.
With a gentle hand, John lifts Maggie’s chin up and looks into her eyes as she blinks nervously.
JOHN
(smiles) Yeah, we could. I know we could. When I get back, I’ll drop you a line. Are you going to be at the mansion on the top of the hill?
Maggie reaches into her bag and hands John a Polaroid picture of herself, with her contact information neatly printed at the bottom.
MAGGIE
Yeah, here. My address and phone number are at the bottom (pointing). Write to me, and call as soon as you get back, okay? I’ll wait for you in tender times.
John smiles, as he and Maggie share an intimate moment before he boards the bus. The bus is packed, but John finds his way to a window seat towards the back of the bus. Maggie is seen waving goodbye, as the bus pulls away. On the road, John is seen staring out the window at the clouds, daydreaming and reflecting on his journey.
EXT: Steep hill to Grandpa Ray’s house
John slowly trudges along up the very steep hill leading to Grandpa Ray’s dilapidated house. Reaching the top of the hill, out of breath, he climbs the porch steps and knocks on the front door. An aged Grandpa Ray answers.
JOHN
(catching his breath) Can you give me sanctuary? I must find a place to hide, a place for me to hide.
Smiling, they embrace each other.
GRANDPA RAY
Get in here, son! Let me look at you!(paused to look at John up and down, smiling and shaking his head) A spiting image of your father.
John beams with pride, as Grandpa Ray smiles and pats him on the back, before leading the way to the living room.
Grandpa Ray
(smiling, motioning John inside) This way...(pauses)So, did you find me okay?
JOHN
I did! But, it’s the adventure that got me here that has been a trip to say the least.
GRANDPA RAY
Oh Yeah?
John
Yeah! Meeting Shirley was unbelievable. Thank you! She is amazing. I’ve also met some other very interesting people along the way, and I think I’ve found my girl!
GRANDPA RAY
(Smiling) That’s great! You’re on the road to self-discovery! New worlds await you.
JOHN:
Well, I’m ready!
INT: Grandpa Ray’s living room
John and Grandpa Ray proceed to the living room and have a seat in a couple of old chairs in front of the fireplace.
GRANDPA RAY
Now, John, as you know, the time has come for you to release those spirits within and to step into your new role, but there is still much for you to learn and walls to be torn down. (pauses) Are you ready to let go and to embrace your future?
JOHN
Yeah…(Pauses) You know, my whole life I’ve felt that people always leave me, or die...that I am destined to be alone. I need peace.
GRANDPA RAY
I’ll tell you about the heartache and the loss of God. I’m an old blues man and I think you understand. John, my son, you will be taken care of. Good things await you. (Pauses) Stay here. I’m gonna go grab some beers.
Grandpa Ray goes into the kitchen to get beers, while John walks around the living room, looking over all the memorabilia and stops at the mantle above the fireplace. He sees a beautiful painting of Grandpa with a Cobra on his left, Leopard on his right. His eyes rest on countless pictures of diverse individuals. Amongst those pictures John finds pictures of his father, Native Americans and even one in which he recognizes Shirley. Grandpa Ray comes back from the kitchen carrying the beers.
JOHN
My mom never told me much about you, but as I’m sure you know, she thought you were into things from the dark side. I always knew better, of course. I knew you were a free spirit, I just never knew what happened to you. Where did you go? Tell me about your adventures!
GRANDPA RAY
(smiling) Sit down, I’ll be happy to share my memories with you. You were about six years old the last time we were together. I left to explore foreign lands. I was in search of new experiences and new relationships and in the end, I experienced many different cultures and have many cherished memories, but I also had many adventures before you were born, and those are the ones I’d like to tell you about now.
Grandpa Ray’s Montage/Flashback
Grandpa Ray narrates, as his flashback plays like and old movie dream sequence.
GRANDPA RAY (V.O.)
When I was a young man, I set out to explore the world and to find my place in it. As I was hitchhiking through desperate desert land, a pickup truck full of Native Americans pulled over and offered me a ride. They told me that they had been expecting me...that a tribesman had a vision of a white man on the road. I too had a vision of a strange encounter the night before, so I decided to go along with them, and hopped into the back of their truck.. It wasn’t long before we arrived a the Native’s camp where I was taken to meet the Elders.
Grandpa Ray is seen drawing much attention, as he is led through the tribe’s camp to meet the Elders.
GRANDPA RAY (V.O.)
They said I was a chosen one. At the time, we didn’t know what I had been chosen for, just that I was to be a part of their tribe, so they took me in. They taught me everything about their traditions and shared stories of folklore. They taught me how to hunt and how to survive in the wilderness. I traveled with the tribe and its leaders for several years. (pauses) One summer, at a gathering by a river, a young girl was playing in the rushing waters when a wave swept her up and carried her down the river, away from the camp. I quickly jumped up and ran alongside the river, until I caught up to the little girl. Then I dove in and saved her. The rapids beat us up pretty good, and I barely got us back to shore, but thankfully she was alright. (pauses and reflects) You know, the little native girl was really shook up, and as I held her trembling body, she looked up at me and said...
Native Girl
(trembling whispers) Save us...Save...us...
Grandpa
(Consoling) Don’t worry, you’re safe now.
NATIVE GIRL
(scared) No. Please believe me, the river told me. (she is seen whispering something into Grandpa’s ear.)
GRANDPA RAY: (V.O.) It was alarming, but I didn’t know what to make of it, so I just tried to sooth the little girl, as the people of the tribe began gathering around us, offering warmth and comfort. Later that night the tribe awarded me with the highest honor and respect of it’s people, and we celebrated with singing, dancing, and storytelling.
INT: Back in Grandpa Ray’s living room
JOHN
WOW Grandpa Ray! That’s a great story! So, they regarded you as their own?
GRANDPA RAY
(nods) I was destined to be a part of their tribe, but saving the young Native girl’s trembling confession was actually a premonition of things to come. It wasn’t long after that fever and sickness swept through the tribe, threatening the lives of the children. It was pretty devastating, and we were helpless to save them. (Pauses) Then one night...
Grandpa Ray’s Flashback Cont.
INT: Inside Tipi
Grandpa Ray is seen sitting around a fire, inside a tipi, with a mystic and some tribesman, listening to the mystic tell a story.
GRANDPA RAY (V.O.)
I had been drinking whisky with a mystic and some men. It was there I met the Rainman. He told a story about a sacred root that, when ground to a fine powder and mixed with fresh bee’s honey, would cure the illness that threatened these children. So, I lead a small group of hunters on a long journey to find this sacred root.
Grandpa Ray’s Flashback Cont.
EXT: Various locations
Grandpa Ray is seen trekking across the land and through the elements with a small group of Native hunters, in search of a sacred root.
GRANDPA RAY (V.O.)
We came down the rivers and the highways. We came down from forests and falls. We came down from Carson and Springfield. We came down from Phoenix enthralled. And I tell you the names of the kingdom. I can tell you the things that you know, listening for a fistful of silence, climbing into the shade. (pauses) The Journey was long and hard, but it was fruitful.
Grandpa Ray is seen successfully finding and retrieving the sacred root, while dangling off the side of a dangerous, mossy grass and tree covered mountain cliff side, with big falling rocks that disappear into the violent waves crashing below the 1000 ft. drop.
EXT: Back at Native’s Campsite
Grandpa Ray is seen returning to the tribe after a successful mission, and curing the children’s illness. The people rejoice with a celebration.
GRANDPA RAY (V.O.)
When we returned, we mashed and mixed the ingredients and sure enough, it cured the children and the people rejoiced!
INT: Back in Grandpa Ray’s living room
Grandpa Ray is seen smoking Brier’s pipe, as John listens closely and hangs on his every word.
GRANDPA RAY
(pauses and smiles) Ah, the good times...
JOHN
Wow, that’s amazing!
GRANDPA RAY
Yes it was...(smiles and reflects) It was on our way back from our successful mission, that we entered the town of my birth, so we stopped to rest. It was there that I met the most beautiful girl, who stole my heart. I knew right away that she was my cosmic soul mate.
Grandpa Ray reaches into his pocket, pulls out his wallet and hands John a picture of Shirley.
JOHN
(stunned) What?! But...how...Why didn’t you tell me?
GRANDPA RAY
I’m sorry John, but there just wasn't enough time. (pauses and sighs) She passed away shortly after you were born. You were just a baby, so you probably don’t remember her, but she loved you very much...She is in your heart, John, and watches over you. You never walk alone.
John is stunned speechless, as grandpa takes the picture back from him and kisses it, before standing up, putting the picture back in his wallet and back in his pocket.
GRANDPA RAY
Let’s take a walk, shall we?
JOHN
(stunned) Yeah, sure.
As grandpa leaves the room, John reaches into his pocket, pulls out the Blue Rock and smiles as he shakes his head in disbelief. Grandpa is heard calling to John from the porch.
GRANDPA RAY
You coming?
John puts the Blue Rock back in his pocket and hurries out after grandpa.
EXT: Sunset-Sandy dirt trail in the hills
John and grandpa take a short walk along a sandy dirt trail in the hills, to the top of the highest peak.
JOHN
(long pause) So...she returned to the Native camp with you?
Grandpa smiles and nods before continuing on.
Grandpa’s Flashback Cont.
EXT: Evening -Native campsite
We see grandpa and Shirley celebrating and spending time with the people of the tribe.
GRANDPA RAY(V.O.)
Yes, she returned to the Native camp with me. Shortly afterwards we were married in a Native ceremony and it wasn’t long before your father was conceived.
Grandpa is seen sitting around a camp fire in the woods, by a lake, with the tribe. Shirley is seen down by the lake, growing stones.
GRANDPA RAY (V.O.)
It’s about that time, that your grandmother and I decided to move on from the tribe and start a new life, raising our family on our own. I decided to go back to working on the docs of Freedom Shore.
Grandpa and a pregnant Shirley are seen leaving the Native camp, with all their belongings in tow, as the people of the tribe wave goodbye.
EXT: Highest Peak-Sandy dirt trails in the hills
Reaching the highest peak, John and grandpa look out over the land, as the sun begins to set.
JOHN
Do you miss the old days?
GRANDPA RAY
I do, very much. We used to believe in the good old days. Now, the old get old and young get stronger. (Pauses) I thank you for being here with me, in this final chapter of my life.
John is looking thoughtfully out over the land, as the sky turns orange and red, while Grandpa Ray is seen writing something in the sandy dirt with a stick.
JOHN
(smiling) Thanks Grandpa. It’s an honor to get to know you after all these years and to have the opportunity to learn the history behind my life, where I come from! I don’t know what I would do without you.
GRANDPA RAY
Can’t you see the wonder at your feet?
John looks down and sees that Grandpa Ray has written the word “wonder” in the sandy dirt at his feet. John chuckles.
JOHN
You know, in Tangie Town, there was a group of filmmakers who want to document my story.
GRANDPA RAY
That’s great! You have quite the story to tell and you should tell it! Take them up on that offer when you return. The human connection to spirituality is an important thing in life and should be shared. There are good things to come. (pauses, takes a deep breath) John, there’s one more thing you should know. It has to do with that day that transformed the rest of your young life, the day the Natives within arrived at the door of your fragile eggshell mind.
Grandpa Ray’s Road Trip Flashback
EXT: Desert highway-
Dad is driving with Mom in the front seat and Grandpa Ray is in the back seat with a sleepy John when they come across the dead and dying Native Americans scattered all over the road, beside the turned over truck.
GRANDPA RAY(V.O.)
Before we noticed the accident, I felt like something was horribly wrong, but couldn’t put my finger on it. The night before, I had a dream of Natives Americans being slaughtered.
A VOICE ECHOS
Wait, there’s been a slaughter here.
GRANDPA RAY(V.O.)
Well, when we found the Indians scattered on the dawn’s highway bleeding, I knew my dream had been a premonition of things to come. Your father and I got out of the car to see if there were any survivors. I felt the presence of one or more of the dying Natives. It was then, I knew the reason why I was chosen by the tribe. I came across a pair of Natives I recognized immediately. It was the parents of the young girl I saved from the rushing waters years before. The father of the girl stared into my eyes and smiled, as I stood over him. He then reached up and put an ancient Indian crucifix snake medallion into my hands, just before his spirit left him.
EXT: Night-Back at sandy dirt trails in the hills
The sun has set and the full moon has begun to illuminate the night sky as they turn to head home.
GRANDPA RAY I have a strong belief that they then jumped into your body to protect you the way I had protected the children of their tribe. I saved many lives and they honored me in their deaths, by protecting you all these years. The time to release them is coming near. Someday soon, I will take you to meet the Rainman, the mystic of the tribe I once called home. He can release the native spirits within.
JOHN So, you knew the Natives that died that day?!
GRANDPA RAY
That’s right, son.
JOHN
WOW! That’s the strangest thing I’ve heard yet!
GRANDPA RAY
(laughs) It’s only going to get stranger! Strange days have found us. We must learn to adapt to the unknown. John, expect nothing, but be prepared for anything and know that you are protected on your journey.
Still absorbing everything, John pauses and lets out a big sigh.
JOHN
Everything seems so complicated now…
GRANDPA RAY
Well, back in those days, everything was simpler and more confused. Here…
Grandpa Ray stops walking, sits down on the trail and starts digging with his hands. John is confused, but following his lead, sits beside him and starts digging as well. After a moment, Grandpa Ray reaches a hand to John.
GRANDPA RAY
Let’s bury all our troubles in the sand.
John takes his hand and together they close their eyes, reflecting for a moment, before pushing and compacting all the sandy dirt back into the ground. (Fade to black)
John and Grandpa Ray’s Montage
We now see John and Grandpa Ray spending many days enjoying each other’s company and engaging in various activities. John is seen writing in his journal, and looking at Maggie’s picture as he writes postcards, reflecting on his journey.
JOHN (V.O.)
I stayed with my grandfather for a couple of months, learning from him and absorbed all the details of his legendary accounts, captivated by the stories he told of his adventures. He told me stories of his youth, the war and his many other travels. He also told me more stories of his time with my grandmother Shirley, and of my father’s life and childhood. Of course, e talked more about my visions, but most importantly, grandpa taught me the ways of being open mentally, intuitively, and spiritually. I had dreamt about and anticipated this time with my grandfather and it had finally arrived! We were ready to embark on our next adventure together. We aimed our arrows at the sun.
John and Grandpa Ray are seen shooting arrows at the sun.
(Fade to black)
INT: Morning-Grandpa Ray’s-Living room
Having been asleep on Grandpa Ray’s couch, John slowly opens his eyes, as the sun shines in through the front window. Grandpa Ray is smudging sage, while asking for protection and for the spirits to be with them on their journey. Grandpa Ray notices John stirring.
GRANDPA RAY
Good morning, John. The time has come. The Rainman is coming to town. He will change your weather, he will change your luck, then he’ll teach you how to...
JOHN
(laughing) Ok, I think I get it.
GRANDPA RAY
(laughing) Find yourself! (pauses) Here, take these. (Grandpa hands John some beads.) You will need them.
JOHN
(inspecting the beads, confused) Why will I need these?
GRANDPA RAY
To trade some beads for a pint of gold. You know...beer. It’s an old tradition they’ve kept alive in L’America and I don’t need them anymore.
JOHN
(laughs) Thanks. I’ll need all the beads I can get!
GRANDPA
(laughs) I bet! Now come on. Get ready. We need to get going and head out if we’re going to do this.
Grandpa continues scuttling about the room, as John hops up off the couch, swaggers into the bathroom and calls out as he jumps into the shower.
JOHN
(over the sound of the shower) So, who IS the Rainman?
GRANDPA RAY
(loudly) Well, the Rainman is a mystic and powerful mystic an shaman, a healer known throughout various tribes, but he is also a medium who communicates with spirits that are stuck on this plane and helps them to move on peacefully, as well as releasing spirits who have entered a mortal’s energy force, which is why we are going to see him today.
John turns off the water and steps out of the shower, as he dries off and continues getting ready.
JOHN
(pauses) And then what?
GRANDPA RAY
Well, then the spirits have moved on from you, the visions may or may not stop, but you will retain a sense of your own self. Not many people have, or will ever go through what you are about to...(pauses) but, we have less time then you realize. Are you ready?
JOHN
(stepping out of bathroom) Ready as I’ll ever be.
GRANDPA RAY
Good, let’s go. It’s a long drive to L’America.
EXT: On the highway west
John and Grandpa Ray are heading to L’America in Grandpa Ray’s snakeskin painted beater car. They pass a couple of hitchhiking hippies with a sign on the road that says “Take us to Madre”. John looks at the group of hitchhikers, and swears he sees his mother in the crowd smiling at him. Grandpa Ray begins acting like a tour guide, pointing out historical sites along the way.
JOHN: When was the last time you were in L’America?
GRANDPA RAY
Oh, it’s been years! But, I used to spend a lot of time there. I really like the culture and the energy there. (Pauses) See that way out there?! (Pointing) That’s the land where the pharaoh died.
In his excitement, Grandpa Ray swerves the car, nearly driving them into a ditch.
JOHN: (laughing and holding onto the dashboard) Keep your eyes on the road and your hands upon the wheel!
GRANDPA RAY
(laughs and points again) And over there, that’s the Hyacinthine House!
John looks across the land and sees men carrying large statues and a Kin’s feast into the Hyacinthine house.
JOHN: What are they doing in the Hyacinthine House?
GRANDPA RAY
They please the lions this day.
EXT: Mid afternoon-L’America
Upon arriving in L’America, it’s as if the mood shifts, like they are entering another realm. They park the car on the side of the road and proceed on foot to the heart of L’America.
GRANDPA RAY
Don’t stop to speak or look around.
EXT: Heart of L’America
Walking through L’America, John and grandpa are immersed in crowds of people bustling about vendor booths, in preparation of a celebration. John shuffles along behind grandpa, who forges through the crowd.
GRANDPA RAY
Are you getting nervous?
JOHN
(nervously laughs) Well, yeah, but I know it’s something I have to do.
Grandpa Ray stops walking in the midst of the festively dressed crowd and turns to John, who bumps into him.
GRANDPA RAY
How about this? Will you stop and think and wonder just what you’ll see?
JOHN
(thinks for a moment) The future is uncertain and the end is always near.
GRANDPA RAY
Hmmm… (Impressed and pondering John’s response for a moment) Ok, let’s go. It’s time to meet the Rainman.
Grandpa Ray turns and starts making his way through the crowd again, as John quickly follows behind. Grandpa Ray leads John passed all the hustle and bustle to a clearing, where he walks up to and embraces a Native American man dressed in full garb.
RAINMAN
It’s good to see you Ray, how are you? I see you received my message about being in L’America.
GRANDPA RAY
Yes! And it’s so wonderful to see you, my good friend. I’ve brought with me, my grandson to make your acquaintance.
Grandpa Ray steps aside and John steps forward. John reaches a hand out to the Rainman.
JOHN
How do you do, sir? I thank you for your time.
The Rainman shakes John’s hand while staring at him curiously.
RAINMAN
Hello, young man. (Pauses) Do you want to tell me your name?
JOHN: John, John Rison.
RAINMAN
(staring at John for a moment) Love has been lost. Is that the reason you are trying so desperately to be free?
JOHN: Impossible, yes, but it’s true.
RAINMAN: Tell me where your freedom lies.
JOHN: I can’t seem to find the right lie.
RAINMAN: (Pauses) Come!! We shall take our ceremony to the great Forest of Azure!!!
EXT: Sunset-The Forest of Azure
The people of the tribe lead the way as the Rainman, Grandpa Ray and John walk along the beaten path to the Forest of Azure. They are lead to a part of the forest where the sounds of drumming fills the air, tribesmen have built a large fire and the elders are chanting in preparation for the day’s ceremony.
RAINMAN
(to John) Don’t worry, the operation won’t take long and you will be much better in the morning. (smiles)
The Rainman calls out, gathering all the people to assemble in a circle, as the ceremony begins.
RAINMAN
Is everybody in? The ceremony is about to begin! Earth, air, fire, water, mother, father, son and daughters. I would first like to thank everyone for being here on this glorious occasion. Secondly, I would like to welcome the ancestors of the spirits on the other side, waiting to welcome their kin. Thank you for breaking on through to the other side to be here with us today.(Motioning towards John)John, I would like to honor you for your bravery, loyalty and the future connection to your soul that awaits you. May you be blessed in this ceremony. (Pauses) John, please come forward and lie down in the middle of our sacred circle. (John does so) Now, close your eyes and relax.
John closes his eyes and takes deep breaths, as the sounds of the drums beat a tribal lullaby. The Rainman lights sage and chants n his native tongue, as he dances around John’s body, waving a crow’s feather. The drumming and chanting grow fainter as fainter, as John’s mind drifts from consciousness.
Native Vision Pt 2
EXT: Desert-Natives staring face to face with John
(White Light)
John is suddenly back at the desert, face to face with the Natives for the second time ever. The Natives had looked away in distraction, but are now looking back at John.
JOHN
Hello.
NATIVE 1
Hello, John. It’s good to see your face again.
JOHN
It’s an honor to see the faces behind the visions. My grandfather tells me he knew you.
Native Man
Your grandfather is a good man who deserves to be celebrated. He did save our daughter from the waters that day and many woman and children when the fever came too soon.
Native Woman
Yes. He loved the people of our tribe and the people of our tribe loved him! But after several years, your grandfather left to explore new horizons. We said our thanks and went our separate ways.
Native man
After that, we fell on hard times and needed work, so we worked on farms, harvesting the land. The night before the accident, I had a vision of a disaster. The next day, I knew the fate of us all, but I also knew that it was our time to leave this plane and enter a new world. What I didn’t know was that you would be our new world. I had dreamt of your life and your future, but what I didn’t realize was that you would be the grandson of the man who saved our children many years before. As I lie there, feeling the spirit within, I looked into your grandfathers eyes and I saw your life and your future. I knew then that it was my purpose in death to honor your grandfather by protecting you. It is at this time, with the beats of my mortal heart, that I gave your grandfather the ancient Indian crucifix snake medallion that has been passed down through many generations, as a symbol of friendship, love and respect.
Native woman
Yes, when we saw that it was your grandfather who came to us as we lie there dying, I too knew what we had to do, so together we entered your crowded eggshell mind. We made sure you knew you were protected.
JOHN
So, all those visions… What do they mean?
NATIVE WOMAN
They are clues to leadership roles you will take on without us. They are pieces of a puzzle that hasn’t been completed at this time. Some visions might not make sense now, but they will. Follow the Native girl in your dreams. That is our daughter trying to communicate with you. She will show you the way.
NATIVE MAN
John, we don’t have much time left. It was an honor to be a part of your life.
JOHN
You know, this may sound strange, but it’s true. I’m not real enough without you.
NATIVE WOMAN
(Smiles) Do not fear that I’ll look into your eyes again.
JOHN
But, this is the end! It hurts to set you free. (Pauses) But you’ll never follow me…
NATIVE WOMAN
Please stop and you will remember, we were together.
JOHN
Can’t you just wait a little while longer?
NATIVE MAN
We cannot turn back, because it’s too late. We are trying for something that has already found us. Take care, my good friend.
JOHN
Indian, Indian, what did you die for?
NATIVE MAN
Nothing at all.
They embrace John with a hug. The Native spirits turn and walk towards a bright, bright light and disappear into it, as John is filled with a warm feeling, when suddenly he hears…
RAINMAN
WAKE UP!!!
EXT: Evening-Back at the Forest of Azure
John startled awake and a little disoriented. As he sits up, the sacred circle is broken up and everybody begins dancing and celebrating. Grandpa Ray makes his way over to John and the Rainman.
JOHN
(dazed) Has this dream stopped?
RAINMAN
The ceremony is complete. The spirits have left you. How do you feel?
JOHN
Drained and a little confused.
GRANDPA RAY
(Putting his arm around John) You’ll be alright.
JOHN
(Pauses) I talked with them. I was there when they left.
RAINMAN
Well then, my work here is done. Celebrate today’s transformation, for there will never be another one like you. Take care, my friend! I have many seas to cross.
JOHN
Thank you for everything.
The Rainman pats John on the back, before he pulls Grandpa Ray aside and shares a hushed conversation. John is left observing his surroundings and pondering his new beginnings. A short while later, Grandpa Ray returns.
GRANDPA RAY
Hey, son. How are you feeling?
JOHN
(Speechless) Uh… I don’t really know yet…
GRANDPA RAY
Well, you did great. Just think, their life and death purpose has come full circle and now they’ve moved on to a new plane. They will still watch over you, only now they will be watching from a different window.
JOHN
You know, since I was a kid, they have filled a place inside me and had a view of my life. Now, I can feel the emptiness. It’s like a death of sorts.
GRANDPA RAY
Remember, they will always be in your heart. Come on. Let’s head back to town, get some food and trade some of those beads in celebration of the beginning of a new life!
EXT: Night time-L’America
John and Grandpa Ray head back to the L’America. When they arrive, a celebration is in full swing, with people dancing around in full regalia and the costumes are exquisite. John trades his beads for a pint of beer, and loosens up as he and grandpa begin enjoying themselves, laughing with the people, and being very festive. The people seem to adore John and Grandpa Ray, as the ladies heard saying...
Ladies
We love your ways, come again, some other day.
As it gets later, John and grandpa talk about heading home, when a brightly feathered black man approaches them.
JOHN
(to grandpa) I guess we can take the highway to the end of the night.
BLACK MAN
(interrupting) Man, forget the night! Live with us in the Forest of Azure! Please stay.
EXT: Back in The Forest of Azure
John and Grandpa Ray consider it for a moment and then decide to follow the brightly feathered black man into another part of the forest, where a whole tribe of brightly feathered Negroes greets them and welcomes them with open arms. John and Grandpa Ray laugh and enjoy themselves for a while, then take a seat on the sidelines and share a little talk and a good chuckle.
GRANDPA RAY
I really love their costumes. (Pointing to a lady with wings) I especially like the butterfly. Before I sink into the big sleep, I want to hear the scream of the butterfly.
JOHN
(laughing)You’re too funny!
GRANDPA RAY
(laughing) Who says I’m joking?! (Pauses) John, at one time, I started writing a really great script, one that reflects the human heart and spirit, but I never finished it and never thought I would, but then you came along with a suitcase and a song! (Laughs). In all seriousness, let an old man give you some advice. I have lived a long and full life, and one thing I learned is that you have to follow and stay true to the beat of your own heart. Trust your instincts. Follow your dreams to see where they lead you!
JOHN
(Smiles) Well, you aren’t dead yet and I can help you finish your script! (excited) maybe create a film out of it. That would be great.
GRANDPA RAY
Yes, it would, but my point is, don’t die with the music still in your heart! Some are born to sweet delight, some are born to the endless night... You were born to be out-of-site! You are a leader! Lead the crowds to love, celebrations, and future creations. But John, (pauses) the most important thing I have learned in this life is that love is the answer. Isn’t it amazing? Most people don’t even feel alive, cause they’ve shut down inside. All their lives, they sweat and save, building for a shallow grave. Not you though.
JOHN
I love you, Grandpa Ray Rison! You have taught me so much and I will forever be grateful.
GRANDPA RAY
(Smiles) I have always loved you, son and I have cherished our time together as well. (Pauses) Do your thang, kid. I’m going to get some sleep. Old men like me need more rest than the youth of today.
JOHN
(Laughs and pats grandpa’s shoulders) Ok, you get some rest. We can leave first thing in the morning.
Grandpa Ray leans over and embraces John, before lying down on the ground, using his backpack for a pillow. John hops to his feet.
GRANDPA RAY
(Smiling) Goodnight, son.
JOHN
G’night gramps!
John makes his way to a fire pit, where the Negro tribal leader and some of his people are dancing around and chanting over a cauldron. As John approaches, someone serves him the cauldron’s unknown substance in a little tin cup. John looks around at all the different faces that are urging him to drink it and without a second thought, John throws his head back and drinks it down in one big gulp. (crown excited)
TRIBAL LEADER
(To John) Let me tell you about the maiden with the wrought iron soul.
The Negro tribal leader takes John by the hand and leads him into the middle of the celebration, where everyone is dancing and swirling around him. As John begins to feel the effects of the sacred potion, he tries to focus on the tribal leaders face, but everything begins spinning around him faster and faster.
TRIBAL LEADER
Out here on the perimeters, there are no stars. Out here, we is stoned, immaculate!
John, squinting and very dizzy, then stumbles through the dancing crowd to a clearing and sits down, before falling backwards into a dreamlike trance.
Vision/Dream 3
EXT: Deep in the Forest of Azure
John is suddenly aware that he is deep in the forest, far from the celebration and it’s eerily quiet. He suddenly catches a glimpse of the fair sister running through the forest. Intrigued, John follows her. She seems to be leading John to something, because she keeps stopping and looking back to see if he is following, but she never stops long enough for him to catch up. John knows not her name, but calls out to her.
JOHN
Fair Sister!
The Fair Sister stops to look back one more time, before disappearing beyond some trees. John runs after her, hoping she hasn’t gotten away. When he passes the trees where she had disappeared, he comes to an open field full of tall grass. Looking over and across the field, the grown Native girl is nowhere to be found. John calls out for her again.
JOHN
Fair Sister!
John looks around discouraged. Suddenly Grandpa Ray is standing beside him.
JOHN
What have they done to our fair sister?!
GRANDPA RAY
She asked for the people to set her free. Do you hope to make her see you, fool? Go find her!
John takes off running through the tall grass, searching and calling out for the Fair Sister.
JOHN
Fair Sister! Fair Sister!!
John suddenly comes upon the Negro lady with wings that Grandpa Ray had pointed out at the celebration. She is standing like a statue in the tall grass, beside a cocoon, looking down upon it solemnly.
LADY WITH WINGS
They got her. They ravaged and plundered and ripped her and bit her, stuck her with knives in the side of the dawn and tied her with fences and dragged her down.
John looks down at the cocoon as it begins to crack open and the grown Native girl emerges with wings. She is confused, but beautifully shimmering in light. She rises to her feet, looks to the skies and lets out a shrill scream as she flies away.
EXT: Dawn-Forest of Azure
John abruptly wakes up from his dreamlike trance to find that the scream is a reality. He quickly sits up and looks around to see that all the fire pits have burned out and that the people of the tribe who had been sleeping, scattered across the grounds, were now waking to the same scream. Then John notices the Negro lady with wings standing over his grandfather’s body, screaming. Puzzled and fearing the worst, John rushes over to where his grandfather’s body lies very still, only to discover that his grandfather has died. John begins breathing heavily and cries out, as he pounds his fists on Grandpa Ray’s chest.
JOHN
NO! NO! NO! (Crying) Not here! Not now! Grandpa Ray, wake up! Please! Wake up!
John slumps over and begins quietly crying, as a hush falls over the people of the tribe that gather around now. The tribal leader sits beside John in silence and puts a gentle hand on his back. John sits up and sighs.
JOHN
(Whispers) He’s old and his skin is cold.
EXT: Morning-Shore side-A great lake
John stands with the tribe staring out onto a great lake between canyon walls. The tribal leader says a few words as John floats out onto the lake on a small raft, beside another raft carrying Grandpa Ray’s body in a casket made of wood, brush and sticks.
TRIBAL LEADER
He was no General, for he was not old. He was no private, for he could not be sold. He was only a man and his dedication extended to the last degree.
3rd Flashback
EXT: Day at beach
John and Grandpa Ray are fishing off the side of an old dingy boat.
GRANDPA RAY: I’m the freedom man! That’s how lucky I am!
EXT: Back on raft
John is now in the middle of the great lake with Grandpa Ray’s body. John looks broken, but does not cry. He hears Grandpa Ray’s voice echoing through the canyon walls.
GRANDPA RAY (V.O.)
Death makes angels of us all. Gives us wings where we once had shoulders. Smooth as a raven’s claw.
JOHN
(to Grandpa Ray’s casket) This is the end, beautiful friend, the end of our elaborate plans. It hurts to set you free.
John reaches into his pocket, pulls out some matches and sets the casket on fire. He reflects for a moment, watching the casket burn, before turning and heading back to shore.
EXT: The highway driving to Grandpa’s house
John’s eyes reflect an emptiness, as he drives grandpa’s snakeskin painted beater car back to Grandpa Ray’s dilapidated house. When he arrives, John parks in the driveway, stares at the crumbling house for a moment, then heads inside.
INT: Early afternoon-Grandpa Ray’s house
Upon entering the house and walking into the front room, John finds a letter and a treasure map, as well as a wad of cash left by Grandpa Ray on the mantle above the fireplace. John collapses into one of the old chairs and begins reading the letter.
GRANDPA RAY:
Dear John,
If you are reading this, then I have been successful in completing my final rite in this life before sinking into the deep sleep. Please know that I am very proud of you. There will never be another one who can do the things that you do. I’m leaving to you my legacy. Go meet up with your friends and document your journey, and start of the next one. I’m leaving behind a treasure for you. Go meet up with your friends. Document your journey to find the treasure and then celebrate the conclusion of your story. Life is meant to be celebrated. Celebrate love, death, travel. Perhaps one day, you can complete my story Always remember, love is the answer! Love Forever,
Grandpa Ray
John folds the letter and puts it in his pocket, then takes a moment to study the treasure map, before putting it in his green army bag, grabbing armfuls of Grandpa Ray’s memorabilia and loading Grandpa Ray’s snakeskin painted beater car. John takes one last look at Grandpa Ray’s dilapidated house before setting fire to it. John gets into the front seat of Grandpa Ray’s snakeskin painted beater car and watches the flames, now engulfing the house, burn for a moment, before starting the engine and heading back to Tangie Town. On the way, John stops at a pay-phone.
EXT: Pay-phone - middle of desert highway
John is seen getting out of his car to use a pay-phone. He saunters over, taking the picture of maggie out of his back pocket and reflecting for a moment, before picking up the phone and dialing her number.
EXT: Mid afternoon-Mansion on the top of the hill
It’s hot outside and Maggie is reading and fanning herself with John’s postcards, as she reflects under the shade of the front porch, rocking on the porch swing and drinking iced tea with lemon. The filmmakers are seen making repairs on the blue bus under the shade of a tree, as groups of friends are seen scattered across the mansion’s spacious yards, having picnics, listening to music and enjoying the sun. Everyone has been awaiting John’s return. Maggie saunters over to the blue bus.
ROBBY
Where the hell is this guy? Has he even contacted you this entire time?
MAGGIE
(mumbles) Um...He’s sent a few postcards...(Robby shoots Maggie a look) Well, I have a really good feeling about him, ok?!
JIM
We’re getting tired of hangin’ around, waitin’ around with our heads to the ground.
ROBBY
Wow, I am sick of doubt. We are perched headlong on the edge of boredom. We can go on playing or find a new town.
MAGGIE
(frustrated) Fine! We can leave tomorrow. If you can get that thing running by then...
The guys grumble under their breath in response as a girl comes GIRL: (excited) Maggie! There’s a phone call for you! I think it’s him!
MAGGIE
HA! This is it guys! Get yourselves together and quit messing around! No more nonsense!
Maggie turns and runs inside.
INT: Front room-Mansion
Maggie picks up the phone and gets comfortable on a large couch. John is on the other end, calling from the pay-phone.
MAGGIE
John? Is this the one and only John Rison?
JOHN
Hey! Yeah, it’s me.
MAGGIE
Oh, It’s so good to hear your voice! How are you?! How is your grandfather?!
JOHN
(pauses) Well, I’m okay, but my grandfather didn’t make it.
MAGGIE
Oh my God! Are you sure you’re okay?
JOHN
Yeah, I’m okay… Oddly enough, my grandfather knew it would be his time after the Native Spirits successfully moved on from me, but I’ll explain everything later. For now, We’re going on the run and you’re the one I want to come!
MAGGIE
Yeah!
JOHN
Yeah! and We’re gonna pick up everyone! So tell all the people you see follow me, follow me down. I know where there is a treasure waiting for me!
MAGGIE
Really? Ok! Oh, I am so excited! Yes, yes! I’ll get everyone together! I really missed you, John.
JOHN
(smiling) I really missed you too.
MAGGIE
(groans) Awwwww! How soon can you get here?
JOHN
Well, I just got in town about an hour ago and I can be there by evening. It will be an easy ride.
MAGGIE
Ok, you just get here and we’ll do the rest! Come back, baby…back into my arms. I want you to hold me. Come today!
JOHN
I’m on my way!
John and Maggie hang up. John turns and hops back into the snake skin painted beater car, and burns rubber as he heads back out onto the highway. Maggie squeals with excitement before collecting herself and returning outside to the blue bus.
EXT: Front Yard-Mansion
MAGGIE
Hey everybody! John is on his way and will be here soon, Get yourselves together...it’s time to hit the road.
Everyone jumps up and scurries around, collecting their things and getting ready to head out. A short while later, Maggie spots John approaching in the distance, and gets very excited. As John pulls up and turns off the engine, Maggie runs to greet him, and before John can even close the car door behind him, she jumps into his arms and plants a big kiss on him. John stumbles a little, but quickly regains his balance.
MAGGIE
(Squeezing him tight) Oh, it’s so good to see you! I’m so glad you came back!
JOHN
(Holding Maggie tightly, kissing her and laughing) I told you I’d be back! (John sets Maggie gently down on the ground) My grandfather advised me to tell my story, so I thought about it and why not?! I want to have my kicks before the whole shit house goes up in flames!
John and Maggie are talking and laughing, as they walk hand in hand, over to the blue bus where everyone is finishing loading their belongings for the trip.
ROBBY
(Reaches a hand to John): Hey man, good to see you. Welcome back!
JOHN
(Shakes his hand) Thanks man, it’s good to be back!
ROBBY
I can’t wait to get on the road and film this journey to your soul!
JOHN
No doubt! I can’t wait for all the secrets to unfold!
ROBBY
Right on, man! This is gonna be out of sight!
MAGGIE
Here, here!
John and Maggie walk to the shade of the porch and get comfortable on the porch swing.
MAGGIE
I’ve been dreaming about you and in my dreams, you’re showing me things. I don’t mean to sound, clique, and I know this sounds weird, but I feel like we’re really connected, even though we barely know each other.
JOHN
(Smiles) I know. I feel it too. What’s weirder is that I feel like I’ve always know it!
MAGGIE
(blushing and giggling, snuggling up to John) So, what exactly do you have planned for this trip?
JOHN
Well, I think that filming an experience relating to self discovery and at the same time, to the discovery of a treasure with a group of filmmakers and friends is fantastic! It illustrates our creativity and ability to expand our minds, but most of all; we will be documenting the celebration of life! What better way to honor such an occasion, than to capture it all on film, to make a movie and spread the word that life is about love, creations, and celebration?!
MAGGIE
(sits up, facing John) Wow! I love it!
JOHN
I want everyone from all walks of life to joins us on this ride. There will be worlds to discover!
John stands up and calls out to everyone in the yard to come listen to what he has to say. Everyone runs to the porch and anxiously stand before him.
JOHN
Hey, everybody! Come listen! Let’s get together one more time, as we run from the day to a strange night of stone. Can’t you picture what will be, so limitless and free? Love is the answer! and I’ll tell you about the worlds we’ll invent, if you will stop and think and wonder, just what you’ll see...Enough for you and me and sunshine! Is everybody in? (everybody cheers) SOMEONE YELLS
Who could ask for anything more?!
JOHN
(Everyone cheers) Alright, alright, alright! The time has come and we can’t turn back, cause it’s too late. We’re on our way! Tomorrow morning, we’ll head out as a group, or a tribe if you will, and have ourselves a good ole’ time!
Out in the distance, the roars of the outlaw’s motorcycles are heard approaching.
ROBBY
Hey man, the outlaws are coming!
MAGGIE
Shit. They probably heard we’re leaving town...
When the 5 outlaws appear at the top of the hill on 4 motorcycles and a sidecar, everyone scatters, frantically looking for a place to hide. The outlaws rev their engines and drive recklessly around the yards, scaring and chasing everone into hiding.
FRIEND
They are going to destroy our casual joys!
Maggie walks out to the middle of the yard, in the midst of all the commotion. The outlaws turn off their engines and raise their guns, as they dismount their motorcycles and surround Maggie. The outlaw leader saunters over, stopping to vainly look at his reflection in the window of the snake skin painted beater car. Then the outlaw leader, appearing unarmed, steps between his fellow outlaws and approaches Maggie.
OUTLAW LEADER
So, what’s this I hear about you and your hippie friends leaving town to go on some adventure?
MAGGIE
We’re going on a little road trip, that’s all...
Outlaw leader
You’re not going anywhere, Maggie! I warned you! You still owe me money!
MAGGIE
Just calm down! I’ll be back and you WILL be paid. I promise!
OUTLAW LEADER
Is that so? Well, then I guess it looks like we’re going on a little road trip, fellas! (The outlaws cheer/laugh/growl)
MAGGIE
No, you’re not! Just trust me, I’ll get the money this weekend!
OUTLAW LEADER
Maggie, Maggie, Maggie…you just don’t get it, do you? I warned you the last time I saw you that I was going to get rid of you. You lucked out once, but it looks like your luck has run out!
The outlaw leader lunges at Maggie, who manages to dodge him, just as John pushes his way through the barricade of outlaws to stand beside Maggie.
JOHN
No one is going to get hurt! And for what?! Money?! We’ll get you your money! How much does she owe you?
The outlaw leader lunges again, this time grabbing Maggie and pulling a knife from his back pocket and putting it to Maggie’s throat. John catches a glimpse of a tattoo on the outlaw’s arm of a knife piercing a snake and recognizes it from his earlier vision.
Vision Flash
A hand stealing a knife, followed by a snake being struck by the knife.
EXT: Front yard mansion
OUTLAW LEADER
Shut the fuck up, you dumb fuck! Do you think I give a shit about your attempt to pay me? This is personal business between Maggie and me!
Maggie squirms and tries to break free, but the outlaw leader tightens his grip on her and pushes the blade of his knife up against her flesh, cutting her a little bit and causing her to cry out.
OUTLAW LEADER
(crazed) See! I’m not afraid to cut her!
JOHN
(Clapping slow and sarcastically) What are you going to do? Kill her in front of all these people?
Just then, the filmmakers and all their friends rush out from all directions with lead pipes and wooden posts, surrounding the outlaws.
JOHN
You got the guns, but we got the numbers. We’re gonna win, yeah we’re taking over!
The outlaws now appear scared. The outlaw leader releases Maggie and looks around as he starts to slowly back away. The 4 other outlaws follow his lead and drop their guns as they too slowly back away.
OUTLAW LEADER
Listen man, I…
JOHN
No, you listen! I have something for you, then you and your friends can leave, okay?
OUTLAW LEADER
Yeah man, it’s cool.
JOHN
Here! (Reaches into his pocket and shows the outlaw leader the wad of cash) This ought to take care of everything that Maggie owes you and then some. You know, you have done some really terrible things to countless innocent people. I had a vision once with a message for you. I hate to remind you, but you’re going to die.
OUTLAW LEADER
What? What the hell are you talking about?!
John points to the tattoo on the outlaw leader’s arm.
JOHN
Here, take your money!
John throws the wad of money down the hill. Confused, but still greedy, the outlaw leader quickly runs after it. It’s there that a rattlesnake strikes the outlaw leader, causing him to cry out in pain. The outlaw leader just as quickly stabs the snake (just like the tattoo/vision), but it’s too late. The outlaw leader is grunting in pain and rolling around in the dirt as he begins to feel the effects of the snake venom.
JOHN
Ah! Is the hunter now the hunted? How ironic that your tattoo is a knife killing a snake, but now the snake is having his revenge! Greed is a killer. If you hunt, you will eventually become the prey, but don’t worry…the money should cover the hospital bill. (Turning to the remaining 4 outlaws and throws keys to outlaws to take the car) Get him to the hospital or cut an X and suck out the poison yourself, but either way, leave! NOW! You have no business here!
OUTLAW LEADER:
(To his men) I think it’s my time to die. Take me away from here. I want to die in peace…far away from here.
The 4 remaining outlaws rush over to their leader, carry him to John’s car and place him inside the passenger seat.
JOHN
(To Maggie) The dead president’s corpse in the driver’s car. You are free from this now.
OUTLAW LEADER
(Calls out to John, delirious from the snake venom) Thanks man! You saved me from this life!
The outlaws leave in a roar of motorcycle thunder and one in John’s car. Everyone cheers in celebration of their win over the ruthless outlaws and continue to gossip about it.
JOHN
Okay, friends! Retire to your tents and to your dreams tomorrow, we head out! I want to be ready.
The crowd disperses into their respective sleeping spaces, as Maggie leads John upstairs to hers. One by one, all the doors close and the lights go out. Lastly, Maggie’s door closes, as she is heard saying…
MAGGIE
Turn out the lights!
THE END (SOFT PARADE)
(Note: This scene, and the remainder of the film, will be shot in 16mm, and represents the end of John’s Journey, as well as footage being shot for John’s final vision. John walking along the highway from earlier scene will be the opening shot.)
EXT:Early Afternoon-Middle of the desert
As John is walking along the highway, he veers off the road and into the desert. Looking at Grandpa Ray’s map, John treks deeper and deeper into the desert, pulling the blue rock from his pocket as he continues on. Suddenly, John sees a mirage of a huge tent in the distance, with several people observing him as he approaches. When John arrives, someone is playing a champion sax, while a circus announcer and scantily dressed lady with a name tag that reads “Sandy”, waves him inside.
CIRCUS ANNOUNCER
Hey man, you want girls, pills, grass? I can show you a good time! This place has everything!
SANDY
You won’t know a thing till you get inside. We’re going to have some fun!
JOHN
Well, I’ve been down so goddamn long that it looks like up to me! Let’s roll!
INT: Inside Tent
Upon stepping inside, twin girls with peppermint miniskirts link arms with John and escort him through the tent filled with decorations and people dressed in elaborate costumes. The main area of the tent is filled with people smoking hookahs, singing, dancing and having a good time. John hits a joint, takes a hit of acid that is passed to him and starts having a good time. John looks around and notices that he has been separated from his friends, as a girl in costume approaches him, takes his hand and leads him through the crowd to introduce him to a couple dressed as an angel and a sailor.
ANGEL
There are four ways to get unraveled. One is to sleep, the other is to travel. One is a bandit up in the hills and one is to love your neighbor till his wife gets home. (Laughs)
SAILOR
Follow me across the sea, where the milky babies seem to be. Molded, flowing revelry, with the one (points to John) to set them free!
ANGEL
Come outside. The best of friends have arrived.
EXT: Outside tent
As he and the angel exit the tent, John sees that the celebration is continued outside, and the crowd stuns him. The costumes are so unique and elaborate, that he is easily distracted and for a moment, John is captivated by a 10ft. tall wooden maiden with a wrought iron soul. The angel then leads John to a king’s chair at a table near a stage, at the far end of the festivities. Along the way, John receives many smiles from people wearing masks, who are dancing and feasting, while music echoes throughout. John is left sitting at the table, when a Czar approaches him.
CZAR
It’s an honor to have you here with us! We have been expecting you for some time now. You will be crowned king tonight!
JOHN
Crowned king? King of what?
CZAR
Well, this kingdom! This gathering of people! It shall all be yours! You see, your grandfather was the Leopard King, and the creator of this colorful celebration community of Love, art, and creation, and in his death, he left you his kingdom and treasure.
The Czar slowly motions around the celebration and pauses, looking John up and down.
Czar
(with a sly smirk) And you, John...You shall be the Lizard King
JOHN
The Lizard King? Hmmm…I like it!
Czar
Tonight you will also be introduced to four Queens. They will all offer you gifts in an effort to win your affections and become your bride, but the choice will be yours.
JOHN
(smiles) So, when do I get to meet the Queens?
CZAR
After you have been beaten. I mean eaten. In the meantime, enjoy yourself!
The Czar walks away, leaving John stunned, as food is brought out and placed before John. Famished from the long journey, John devours the feast, while enjoying the scenery, before getting up from the table and joining the celebration again. Everywhere he turns, people are introducing themselves. An ashen lady walks across the grounds with a flower in her hand and approaches John.
ASHEN LADY
No one understands.
JOHN
You reach a hand to hold me, but I can’t be your guide. (She seems disappointed) Don’t be sad, the right one is on his way.
The ashen lady smiles and walks away as two girls approach John to introduce themselves.
FIRST GIRL
Hello, I’m Freedom
SECOND GIRL
And I’m Enterprise.
John nods in acknowledgment, as the two girls bow before him and move on. John looks around and sees a dear woman in a silk dress, girls with beads around the neck, kissing a hunter in a green vest, a group of women carrying babies to the river and growing stones, as well as the well known Pirate Prince. John shakes hands with a gentleman dressed in military garb, with question marks (drawn or painted) all over his uniform and helmet (Ref: Unknown Soldier). It’s then that the monk bought lunch and the Carnival dogs lined up in costumes, begging for something sweet. John is then led to a King’s chair, while the Czar takes center stage beside him, as a crowd gathers before them.
CZAR
Welcome, Everyone! Today we are honored to celebrate our new king, our new leader, The Lizard King! (Everyone cheers) John is the chosen one. He was lead here by a vision of the tropic treasure. (Everyone cheers) Tonight, John will select one of the four Queens to be his bride. Each Queen will honor John with gifts and theatrics to win his mind, body and spirit. So, without further adieu, allow me to introduce the Queens! From the north, representing Air element, give a hand to the Queen of Angels! (Everyone cheers) From the east, representing Water elements, please give a warm welcome to the Queen of Cool! (Everyone cheers) Coming from down south, representing Fire elements, we have the Coda Queen! (Everyone cheers) And last, but certainly not the least, from the West, representing Earth elements, give a hand to the Queen of the Highway!
Everyone cheers, as the four beautifully painted Queens, wearing exotic costumes and sparkling jewelry, stand before the King’s chair bearing gifts. The Queen of Angels approaches John first, performing interpretive dance with small group.
QUEEN OF ANGELS
Angels dance, angels cry, angels fight and angels die. (Queen of Angels steps forward) I can offer you love, protection and understanding of the human spirit.
The Queen of Angels then sprinkles white feathers on John, before walking to the other end of the stage. The Queen of Cool approaches John next, as she swirls around in circles, across the stage.
QUEEN of COOL
I’ve got the world locked up in a plastic box. I can help you unlock the secrets of the world.
The Queen of Cool bows before John and shows him a plastic box containing a globe and puts a skeleton key in his hand before she too walks to the other end of the stage, to stand beside the Queen of Angels. (Everyone Cheers) The Coda QUEEN approaches John next and offers a painting of him with a cobra on his left and a leopard on his right. She then crawls around on all fours, before climbing into his lap and placing a pelt around his neck.
CODA QUEEN
I can offer you animal protection and understanding.
The Coda Queen, then crawls out of John’s lap and bows at his feet, before breaking into a slow seductive stride and joining the other Queens at the other end of the stage. (Everyone Cheers) The Queen of the Highway approaches John now and places a great old map in his lap, as she stands plainly and speaks directly.
QUEEN OF THE HIGHWAY: I can offer you the road and help you find your way, should you become lost. I can offer you life and future creations. Love, Death and Travel.
John and the Queen of the Highway lock eyes and for a moment, time stands still, as the Queen of The Highway smiles shyly.
JOHN
My eyes have seen you…
CZAR
(Interrupts) There you have it…The Queens!
Everyone cheers as the Queen of the highway at the front of the stage, breaking the lingering gaze.
CZAR
Do you think you will be the guy to make the Queen of Angels sigh? Do you have what it takes to unlock the Queen of Cool? Will the Coda Queen be your bride, to rise in darkness by your side? Do you love the ways of the Queen of the Highway, guiding you down the road? We shall find out later, but for now…Let’s have a real good time! (Everyone cheers)
The sun begins to set, as the celebration continues and the four Queens dance off the stage and into the crowd. The Czar approaches John as he is taking it all in.
CZAR
Would you like to see the treasure that your grandfather has left you?
JOHN
I would love to! Where is it?
CZAR
(laughs) You can’t remember where it was?
JOHN
Am I supposed to know?
CZAR
(smiles) Ask your inner child. He knows where it is.
The Czar walks away, leaving John puzzled. John walks off by himself, just outside the celebration and looks to the sky, as he calls out.
JOHN
Inner child, where is the treasure that awaits me?!
Suddenly, John sees his 6 year old self standing before him.
YOUNG JOHN
The treasure is buried in front of the 10ft. tall maiden with wrought iron soul. We dug our treasures there. Well, Grandpa Ray did anyway, but he didn’t show me what was inside until today.
Suddenly remembering this time with Grandpa Ray for the first time, John looks in the direction of the 10ft tall wooden maiden.
EXT: Desert – Outside of celebration
John finds himself staring at the 10ft. tall wooden maiden with a wrought iron soul and quickly looks back to his younger self, who has now disappeared.
JOHN
(Looking around) Where are you?
John hears the voice of his younger self echoing through the night.
YOUNG JOHN
Please listen to me children! You are the ones who will rule the world! Children of the caves will let their secret fires glow.
Upon hearing this, John looks up and sees a reflection of his younger self against the night sky looking down on celebration
Reflection
EXT: Morning-Backyard of home
Young John Rison is outside, playing by himself, attempting to catch a grasshopper.
EXT: Desert-Outside Tent
John looks back in the direction of the 10ft tall wooden maiden.
JOHN
This is the strangest life I’ve ever known.
John returns to the celebration, walking through the crowd of people until he reaches the 10ft tall wooden maiden with wrought iron soul. As he looks around for something to dig with, someone hands John a shovel, and as he starts digging, people start to take an interest. It’s not long before he reaches some resistance. John brushes the dirt away and lifts the Native’s trunk from the ground. (Everyone cheers) John instinctively reaches into his pocket for the skeleton key that the Queen of Cool gave him, to unlock the trunk and it works. Opening the trunk, John discovers the treasures that Grandpa Ray has left for him. The treasures include an ancient mask, a crow’s feather, several stones and crystals, one bag of silver and one bag of gold, as well as the ancient Indian crucifix snake medallion. John places the medallion around his neck and suddenly notices a small, tightly folded piece of paper at the bottom of the trunk. He unfolds it to discover a drawing he had done as a child, of Grandpa Ray’s death in the forest. John becomes teary eyed as he stands up proud before his people and bows. Everyone is cheering as John leads two men carrying the trunk to the King’s chair on stage. The Queens gather at one end of the stage, as the people continue to cheer for their new King, while gathering around the stage to hear him speak.
JOHN
(to his people) Alright, alright! The time to hesitate is through. Is everybody in? (everyone cheer) We’ll construct pyramids in honor of our escaping! We’re going to have a real good time! (everyone cheers)I love the friends I have gathered together! I am honored to be your new king and to choose a lovely Queen to be my bride! And after all is said and done, let’s get together, someday soon!
Excitement erupts from the crowd.
JOHN
(laughing) Very well! She is the world, she is my girl. She is my woman. My girl waits for me in tender times, my girl is mine. My bride shall be The Queen of the Highway!
Everyone cheers, as the Queen of the highway steps forward and reveals who she is. Maggie M’Gill stands before John smiling.
JOHN
I love you the best, better than all the rest!
John takes Maggie into his arms and dips her before giving her a big kiss in front of the crowd. Everyone cheers.
MAGGIE
(Beaming) Where can I take you?
JOHN
Take me to Portugal, take me to Spain. You’re my woman and I love my girl. Looking good!
John kisses Maggie again as they stand up and turn to face the crowd of people. Cheers all around as John leads Maggie to the front of the stage. Fireworks explode in the sky as the 10ft tall wooden maiden is set ablaze. The celebration continues, as John and Maggie are quickly married and crowned King and Queen, before dancing the Indian swirl and sneaking off into the bright midnight on the blue bus. As they disappear into the night, someone yells…
SOMEONE in Crowd
Search on man, calm savior. Godspeed and forgive you.
Seen driving into the night (moon shining)
(Fade to black)
INT: Early Afternoon-Inside shop
John is seen standing behind a counter of a little shop, looking straight ahead, out the front door. The focus is on John’s face as the camera zooms out until it’s facing the store front.
JOHN (V.O.)
A few years have passed since the Native spirits have moved on and since I inherited a kingdom and married Maggie. I knew what I had to do with the money. I had to honor my childhood dream and open a little shop called grasshopper.
EXT:Store front- Afternoon
By the front door of the little shop, is a big, green, iron grasshopper and a sign in the front window that reads “Grasshopper”, just like John dreamed as a child.
The camera zooms out further to show Maggie, standing in front of the store, with a child in her arms. (Fade to black)
This is…
THE END!
