"BILLY AND GRAMPS"

 

                           by

 

                     Charles Deemer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                     3550 SW Pomona St.

                                     Portland, OR 97219-7518

                                     (800) 294-7176

                                     cdeemer@yahoo.com


 

 

 

FADE IN:

 

 

EXT. CITY - DAY

 

A SERIES OF SHOTS

 

City life.

 

--a clogged freeway at rush hour.

 

--a mall parking lot, full, cars roaming for a space.

 

--busy city streets. Buses, taxis.

 

 

EXT. MEDICAL CENTER - DAY

 

A full parking lot.

 

A public bus pulls up.

 

 

INT. CLINIC - EXAM ROOM - DAY

 

EMIL COLLINS, 70s, buttons his shirt after an exam.

 

Sitting with him is his DOCTOR. He hands Emil a prescription.

 

                         DOCTOR

             I'm giving you stronger pain

             medication.

 

Emil takes the slip of paper.

 

                         EMIL

             Tell me straight, doc. How long?

 

                         DOCTOR

             In the best of worlds, three,

             four months.

 

                         EMIL

             In the worst?

 

                         DOCTOR

             I can get you in a hospice, Emil.

             You'd be more comfortable there.

 

                         EMIL

             In other words, any time after I

             leave here. Does it come gradually

             or do I fall over?


                                                            2.

 

 

                         DOCTOR

             It's impossible to predict

             something like this. I'll call

             you later this week about the

             hospice.

 

 

INT. CLINIC - PHARMACY - DAY

 

Emil sits waiting for his prescription. Flipping through a

magazine.

 

WANDA, 50s, approaches.

 

                         WANDA

             Professor Collins?

 

Emil doesn't seem to recognize her.

 

                         WANDA

             Wanda McDonald. I took American

             Literature from you maybe fifteen

             years ago.

 

                         EMIL

                  (distant)

             How are you?

 

                         WANDA

             I'm fine. I want to tell you how

             much you changed my life. I was

             so scared coming back to school

             after so long. You inspired me to

             keep at it. You were so

             inspirational.

 

Emil looks embarrassed.

 

                         EMIL

             Well, I'm going to assume you

             graduated then.

 

                         WANDA

             I went on and got my Masters. I

             teach American Lit at the

             community college. You're my

             model of what a teacher should be.

 

                         VOICE ON SPEAKER

             Emil Collins.

 

Emil stands up. He still looks embarrassed.


                                                            3.

 

 

                         EMIL

             I'm glad it all worked out.

 

He heads for the counter.

 

 

INT. CLINIC - FRONT DESK - DAY

 

Emil starts toward the exit. He carries a small bag. He

passes the front desk.

 

ROSE, 20s, the secretary, sees him.

 

                         ROSE

             No poetry today, Professor Collins?

 

Emil stops and turns.

 

                         EMIL

             I almost forgot. Here's one. "As

             long as you and I have arms and

             lips which are for kissing and to

             sing with, who cares if some one-

             eyed son-of-a-bitch invents an

             instrument to measure Spring

             with?" E.E. Cummings.

 

                         ROSE

             Now my day's complete.

 

Rose smiles as Emil exits.

 

 

EXT. CLINIC - DAY

 

Emil emerges into a sun-bright day. He takes a deep breath.

 

He closes his eyes. Another deep breath.

 

 

INT. TAVERN - DAY

 

Emil at the bar with WALLY, 60s, a friend.

 

                         WALLY

             That's terrible news!

 

                         EMIL

             Sshh, I don't want the whole

             galaxy to know. It's not as bad

             as you think. I've lived a good

             life, and the world's going to

             hell in a hand basket. I'm ready

             to go.


                                                            4.

 

 

                         WALLY

             Don't say that.

 

                         EMIL

             I just did.

 

                         WALLY

             What are you going to do?

 

                         EMIL

             That's what I've been thinking

             about. Maybe take a trip. I'm not

             sure.

 

 

EXT. NEIGHBORHOOD - STREET - DAY

 

A bus pulls to the curb. Emil gets off.

 

 

EXT. NEIGHBORHOOD - RHODES HOUSE - DAY

 

Upper-end homes along a shaded street.

 

BILLY RHODES, teens, is mowing the front lawn.

 

Emil slowly approaches.

 

Billy turns off the lawn mower.

 

                         BILLY

             Hey, Gramps! How'd it go?

 

                         EMIL

             I've got the heart of a linebacker.

 

                         BILLY

             You should've called. I would've

             picked you up.

 

                         EMIL

             You would've, would you? How

             would you manage that?

 

                         BILLY

             I'd take Mom's car. It's not that

             far. And on the way back, you'd

             be in the car, so driving with my

             learner's permit would be legal.

 

                         EMIL

             Next time I have to get somewhere,

             I'll let you know.


                                                            5.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - DINING ROOM - NIGHT

 

The family around the dinner table: Besides Emil and Billy,

Emil's daughter MARTI and her husband, DON, both late 30s,

and Billy's older sister, SARA, 19.

 

                         MARTI

             What did the doctor have to say,

             Dad?

 

                         EMIL

             I have the heart of a marathon

             runner.

 

                         BILLY

             And a linebacker.

 

                         EMIL

                  (winking at him)

             That, too.

 

                         MARTI

             Your blood pressure's good?

             Nothing out of order?

 

                         EMIL

             Everything's out of order. It's

             called old age.

 

                         MARTI

             I'm allowed to worry about you.

 

                         DON

                  (to Marti)

             Change of subject. Are you

             telling her or am I?

 

                         SARA

             Telling me what?

 

                         MARTI

             We decided to spend a week at the

             beach. We're putting you in

             charge. Think you can handle it?

 

Sara lights up.

 

                         DON

             And no parties. You keep an eye

             on her, Billy.


                                                            6.

 

 

                         SARA

             Dad, I'm a sophomore in college.

             Don't treat me like I'm in high

             school.

 

                         DON

             As long as you're home for the

             summer, you play by the house rules.

 

                         SARA

             Yes, I can handle it. I'll even

             cook for these comedians.

 

                         EMIL

             I can't wait.

 

 

EXT. RHODES HOUSE - DRIVEWAY - DAY

 

Seeing Don and Marti off are Sara and Billy. Don in the car

behind the wheel, waiting for Marti to get in.

 

                         MARTI

             Give me a hug.

 

She hugs Billy, then Sara.

 

                         MARTI

             No parties. I mean it.

 

                         SARA

             Mother, please.

 

                         MARTI

             I'm calling to check on you.

 

                         DON

             Marti...

 

                         MARTI

             We'll be home next Monday night.

             It may be late.

 

Marti gets in the car. Don backs out the driveway.

 

And they are gone.

 

                         BILLY

             Are you really going to cook?

 

                         SARA

             What I'm going to do, kiddo, is

             make a deal with you.


                                                            7.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - SARA'S BEDROOM - DAY

 

Sara is packing a tote bag. Billy watches.

 

                         SARA

             I'll be back Monday.

 

                         BILLY

             What time?

 

                         SARA

             I don't know. Afternoon.

 

                         BILLY

             How are we going to eat? I don't

             think Gramps knows how to cook.

 

                         SARA

             Gramps has money. He'll take you

             out every night.

 

                         BILLY

             Shouldn't I get something for not

             telling mom?

 

Sara takes out her wallet. She hands Billy a twenty dollar

bill.

 

                         SARA

             Don't ask for more because it's

             all I have.

 

                         BILLY

             Are you going to have sex with him?

 

 

EXT. RHODES HOUSE - DRIVEWAY - DAY

 

Sara with her bag, waiting in the driveway.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - DAY

 

Emil at the front window. Billy joins him.

 

                         EMIL

             Where's Sara going?

 

                         BILLY

             She's taking off with her boyfriend.

 

                         EMIL

             Your mother know about this?


                                                            8.

 

 

                         BILLY

             No way.

 

Emil studies him.

 

                         EMIL

             Sara bought you off. How much did

             you get?

 

                         BILLY

             Twenty bucks.

 

                         EMIL

             You come too cheap, lad.

 

                         BILLY

             And the keys to Mom's car. Want

             to go for a ride later?

 

 

EXT. RHODES HOUSE - DRIVEWAY - DAY

 

A car pulls up. Behind the wheel is JASON, 20s.

 

Sara climbs in and they're off.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - DAY

 

Billy and Emil watch Sara leave.

 

                         BILLY

             They're going to have sex.

 

                         EMIL

             Sex? Remind me what that is again.

 

Billy grins and Emil messes his hair.

 

 

EXT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Billy driving Marti's red VW convertible. Emil riding shotgun.

 

Billy's a safe driver. Both are grinning, enjoying themselves.

 

 

INT. ICE CREAM PARLOR - DAY

 

They sit at a table over ice cream sundaes.


                                                            9.

 

 

                         EMIL

             I need to take a little trip.

             Since you're such a great

             chauffeur, how'd you like to come

             along?

 

                         BILLY

             Where to?

 

                         EMIL

             Idaho.

 

                         BILLY

             Idaho, wow!

 

                         EMIL

             Clearwater country.

 

                         BILLY

             How far is that?

 

                         EMIL

             Not far at all. A long day's drive.

 

                         BILLY

             They come back Monday night.

 

                         EMIL

             We'll be fine. Leave today, get

             there tomorrow. Spend a few days.

             I'll show you God's country and

             we'll do some fishing.

 

                         BILLY

             Awesome.

 

 

EXT. RHODES HOUSE - DRIVEWAY - DAY

 

Packing the VW for the trip. The top is down.

 

Both Emil and Billy are traveling light. Each puts a tote

bag in the trunk.

 

Emil climbs in.

 

                         EMIL

             I'm ready when you are.

 

Billy jumps behind the wheel.

 

                         BILLY

             This is so awesome.


                                                           10.

 

 

EXT. NEIGHBORHOOD - STREET - DAY

 

The VW cruising.

 

                         EMIL

             Pull in over there.

 

 

EXT. TAVERN - DAY

 

Billy pulls in front of the tavern.

 

                         EMIL

             I won't be a minute.

 

 

INT. TAVERN - DAY

 

Emil enters and finds Wally at the bar.

 

                         WALLY

                  (to bartender)

             Bring a beer for Emil.

 

                         EMIL

             Just here to make a delivery.

 

He hands Wally an envelope. On it is printed: "Emil Collins.

To be opened in the event of death."

 

                         WALLY

             Damn it, Emil, why you giving me

             something like this?

 

                         EMIL

             It's a copy of my will. I named

             you executor.

 

                         WALLY

             I'm not a lawyer.

 

                         EMIL

             You're a friend. That's what counts.

 

He turns to go.

 

                         WALLY

             Where are you going?

 

Emil turns back.

 

                         EMIL

             I ever tell you about Emma?


                                                           11.

 

 

                         WALLY

             Probably. I don't remember. Who's

             Emma?

 

                         EMIL

             The one that got away. I'm going

             to find her and I'm going to ask

             her to marry me.

 

                         WALLY

             You can't ask a woman to marry

             somebody on his death bed.

 

                         EMIL

             You don't know Emma.

 

                         WALLY

             What if she's already married?

 

                         EMIL

             I'll ask her to get divorced.

 

                         WALLY

             What if she's dead?

 

                         EMIL

             Then I really blew it.

 

 

EXT. TAVERN - DAY

 

Emil comes out and gets back in the car.

 

                         EMIL

             To Idaho, James!

 

Billy grins and starts the engine.

 

 

A SERIES OF SHOTS - THE DRIVE TO IDAHO

 

--on a crowded freeway in the city.

 

--on an Interstate in the suburbs.

 

--on an Interstate in countryside.

 

--at a rest stop, Emil pointing out their destination on a

large wall map.

 

--back on the Interstate, different countryside.

 

--at a fast food speaker, ordering.


                                                           12.

 

 

--on the Interstate with burgers in hand.

 

 

EXT. INTERSTATE - DAY

 

The VW top is up. Emil driving.

 

He takes an exit ramp.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Billy, who was dozing at the window, stirs.

 

                         BILLY

             We need gas?

 

                         EMIL

             We're calling it a day.

 

                         BILLY

             Already?

 

                         EMIL

             We've come about as far as my

             back can take.

 

 

EXT. MOTEL - OFFICE - DAY

 

The VW parked in front. Billy waits.

 

Emil comes out, holding up a key.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - DAY

 

They each carry a bag into the motel room. Twin double beds.

 

                         EMIL

             Which bed you want?

 

Billy tosses his bag onto a bed.

 

 

EXT. RESTAURANT - NIGHT

 

The VW parked in the lot.

 

 

INT. RESTAURANT - BOOTH - NIGHT

 

Emil and Billy finishing up dinner.


                                                           13.

 

 

                         BILLY

             Why do you call Idaho God's country?

 

                         EMIL

             Because it is. Only northern

             Idaho, to be precise.

 

                         BILLY

             If it's so great, why'd you leave?

 

                         EMIL

             Because many, many years ago I

             decided I should go to college

             and become a professor. Sometimes

             life deals you very difficult

             choices. You do the best you can

             at the time.

 

                         BILLY

             How come we never went to Idaho

             on vacation?

 

                         EMIL

             Because your mother wouldn't be

             able to find a five-star resort.

 

 

INT. RESTAURANT - BOOTH - NIGHT (LATER)

 

Billy working on an ice cream sundae. Emil with coffee.

 

                         EMIL

             You have a girlfriend?

 

                         BILLY

             Not really.

 

                         EMIL

             That almost sounds like yes.

 

                         BILLY

             She already has a boyfriend.

 

                         EMIL

             Maybe she really likes you better.

 

                         BILLY

             Yeah, right.

 

                         EMIL

             It's not possible?


                                                           14.

 

 

                         BILLY

             She's a cheerleader. Her

             boyfriend's a football player.

 

                         EMIL

             Ah. So you've given up.

 

                         BILLY

             Wouldn't you?

 

                         EMIL

             Sometimes we give up too easily.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - NIGHT

 

Emil in one bed, Billy in the other. Watching TV.

 

Emil turns out his bedside lamp.

 

                         EMIL

             Goodnight.

 

                         BILLY

             Want me to turn off TV?

 

                         EMIL

             Won't bother me at all.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - NIGHT (LATER)

 

A dark room. Emil snoring to beat the band.

 

Billy rolls over. He grabs the second pillow on his bed and

holds it over his head.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - DAY

 

Emil comes out from the bathroom. Billy is still in bed.

 

Emil shakes Billy.

 

                         EMIL

             Rise and shine! One hundred miles

             before breakfast.

 

 

EXT. INTERSTATE - DAY

 

Emil driving.


                                                           15.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

The top up. Billy sprawled on the back seat, sleeping.

 

 

EXT. TRUCK STOP - DAY

 

The VW parked and dwarfed by 18-wheelers.

 

 

INT. TRUCK STOP - TABLE - DAY

 

Billy with eggs, bacon, hot cakes. Emil with oatmeal and

coffee.

 

                         EMIL

             I have a confession to make.

 

Billy looks up but says nothing.

 

                         EMIL

             I'm looking for someone.

 

                         BILLY

             Who?

 

                         EMIL

             A woman. The one who got away.

 

                         BILLY

             Who's that?

 

                         EMIL

             Her name is Emma. I don't even

             know if she's still alive.

 

                         BILLY

             When's the last time you heard

             from her?

 

                         EMIL

             Let me think ... I haven't seen

             her since 1947. But I talked to

             her on the phone after that. Once.

 

                         BILLY

             You haven't heard from her in all

             that time?

 

                         EMIL

             Don't rub it in.


                                                           16.

 

 

                         BILLY

             So why do you want to see her all

             of a sudden?

 

Emil stands up.

 

                         EMIL

             Desire is one of the wonderful

             mysteries of life, lad. Excuse me.

             Nature calls.

 

He hobbles away. Billy watches him go, puzzled.

 

 

EXT. INTERSTATE - INTERCHANGE - DAY

 

The VW moves off the Interstate onto a state highway.

 

 

EXT. HIGHWAY - FARMLAND - DAY

 

The VW on a two-lane highway through Palousse country.

 

In the distance, a lone tractor working the land.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Emil driving. Billy staring off at the tractor.

 

                         BILLY

             He has to plow that whole gigantic

             field?

 

                         EMIL

             It's called farming.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - OUTSKIRTS - DAY

 

The VW on the outskirts of a small Idaho town we'll call

Homestead.

 

A junk yard. A gas station or two. A welcoming sign.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - MAIN STREET - DAY

 

Homestead's Main Street is typically lined with the square,

brick and stone buildings of a western town.

 

Emil pulls the VW in front of a bar.


                                                           17.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Emil keeps the engine running.

 

                         EMIL

             Can you amuse yourself for about

             half an hour?

 

                         BILLY

             Is she in the bar?

 

                         EMIL

             I doubt it. I'm just hoping I

             find somebody I know.

 

                         BILLY

             Is this a wild goose chase?

 

                         EMIL

             It's not over till it's over. Be

             back here in thirty.

 

 

INT. BAR - DAY

 

Emil enters the bar.

 

Half-a-dozen men sit on stools. A few couples at small

tables along a wall.

 

Most of the men look old enough to be retired, wearing

cowboy hats or baseball caps. Emil joins them at the bar.

 

The BARTENDER, a middle-aged woman, comes over.

 

                         BARTENDER

             What can I get you?

 

                         EMIL

             Short beer. Whatever's on tap.

 

She goes to draw it.

 

Emil looks down the bar for a friendly face. Just men lost

in their thoughts.

 

The bartender brings his beer.

 

                         EMIL

             I'm looking for Emma Wells. That

             was her last name when she was

             single. You wouldn't know her,

             would you?


                                                           18.

 

 

                         BARTENDER

             Jake, you know Emma Wells?

 

An old man down the bar, JAKE, looks up. He just nods.

 

                         BARTENDER

             This here gent is looking for her.

 

                         EMIL

                  (to Jake)

             Can I buy you a beer?

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - MAIN STREET - DAY

 

The VW cruising Main Street.

 

Billy reaches one end of town, turns around, and comes back.

The downtown section of Homestead is about three blocks long.

 

Finally he pulls into a fast food restaurant at one end of

town.

 

 

INT. FAST FOOD JOINT - DAY

 

Billy goes to the counter.

 

 

INT. BAR - TABLE - DAY

 

Emil and Jake at a table.

 

                         JAKE

             You know Emma's daughter?

 

                         EMIL

             I didn't know she had a daughter.

 

                         JAKE

             And two sons. She could give you

             the address of the place.

 

 

INT. FAST FOOD JOINT - DAY

 

Billy finishing up a burger.

 

JENNY, teens, comes by, bussing tables. She wears the

company uniform.

 

                         JENNY

             Everything okay?


                                                           19.

 

 

                         BILLY

             It's great.

 

                         JENNY

             You're not from around here.

 

                         BILLY

             I guess it shows.

 

                         JENNY

             This is a small town. If you

             don't know somebody coming in, it

             usually means they're just

             passing through.

 

                         BILLY

             I'm visiting with my granddad. He

             grew up here.

 

                         JENNY

             What's his name?

 

                         BILLY

             Emil Collins.

 

                         JENNY

             I'll ask my grandma if she knows

             him. You staying long?

 

                         BILLY

             Just a few days. He's taking me

             fishing.

 

                         JENNY

             Then we have something in common.

             I'm on the river every chance I get.

 

                         BILLY

             Actually I've never been fishing

             before.

 

 

EXT. BAR - DAY

 

Emil comes out. No Billy.

 

 

EXT. FAST FOOD JOINT - PARKING LOT - DAY

 

Jenny has walked Billy to his car. She hands him a slip of

paper.


                                                           20.

 

 

                         JENNY

             Call me. Maybe grandma knows your

             granddad.

 

                         BILLY

             Way cool. Thanks.

 

They exchange smiles. An attraction is obvious.

 

 

EXT. BAR - DAY

 

The VW pulls up.

 

Emil comes around to the driver's side.

 

                         EMIL

             Slide over.

 

Billy does. Emil gets behind the wheel.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - NEIGHBORHOOD - DAY

 

The VW cruising through a cluster of homes, a small town

neighborhood.

 

Emil pulls to the curb.

 

 

EXT. HOME - PORCH - DAY

 

Emil and Bill at the door, waiting.

 

MARTHA, 40s, opens the door.

 

                         MARTHA

             May I help you?

 

 

INT. HOME - LIVING ROOM - DAY

 

Emil and Billy sit on a sofa across the room from Martha.

 

                         MARTHA

             I'm trying to raise three kids by

             myself. I can't look after her,

             too. Dennis offered his guest

             room but he lives in LA, and you

             couldn't get mom there if you

             paid her.

 

                         EMIL

             Can't say I blame her.


                                                           21.

 

 

                         MARTHA

             When we decided it wasn't safe

             for her to live alone, we had

             little choice. It's a good

             facility. Very good reputation.

 

                         EMIL

             Do you have the address? I'd like

             to visit her.

 

                         MARTHA

             Let me get it.

 

Martha leaves the room.

 

                         EMIL

             She looks a little like Emma.

             Only Emma was prettier.

 

 

EXT. HOUSE - PORCH - DAY

 

Martha seeing them out.

 

                         MARTHA

             She doesn't get many visitors,

             I'm afraid. I can only get up

             there a weekend every month or so.

             I'm sure she'll be delighted to

             see you.

 

                         EMIL

             I'll give her your best.

 

 

INT. HOMESTEAD - STREET - DAY

 

Emil driving.

 

                         EMIL

             It's about an hour. We could get

             a room and you could stay here if

             you wanted.

 

                         BILLY

             You don't mind?

 

                         EMIL

             Can't be much fun listening to a

             couple of dinosaurs reminisce.

 

                         BILLY

             I met a girl who says her

             grandmother may know you.


                                                           22.

 

 

                         EMIL

             You met a girl already! Before

             you were telling me you're the

             shy type.

 

                         BILLY

             She wants me to call her later.

 

                         EMIL

             We'd better get a room.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - MOTEL - DAY

 

The VW parked in front of a motel door. Emil at the car.

 

                         EMIL

             If I'm not back by six, eat

             without me. You need money?

 

                         BILLY

             I still have ten bucks.

 

Emil reaches into his wallet.

 

Billy's eyes light up when he sees how much Emil is giving him.

 

                         BILLY

             Man, thanks!

 

                         EMIL

             You probably should take that

             girl out to dinner. I'll fend for

             myself and catch up with you later.

 

He gets into the VW.

 

 

EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY

 

The VW, its top down, cruises through farmland down a two-

lane highway.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Emil lost in his thoughts.

 

 

INT. GYMNASIUM - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

SUPER: "Homestead High School Gymnasium. Graduation Prom,

1947."


                                                           23.

 

 

A crowded dance floor. A SMALL COMBO plays on a temporary

stage.

 

Dancing close are YOUNG EMIL and YOUNG EMMA, teens, in their

prom best.

 

The song ends. Applause.

 

Emil and Emma move off the dance floor. They pass MR. FRYER.

 

                         MR. FRYER

             Emil, I heard Gonzaga gave you a

             scholarship. Congratulations.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             Thank you, sir.

 

                         MR. FRYER

             You look beautiful tonight, Emma.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             Thank you, Mr. Fryer.

 

They move on.

 

 

INT. GYMNASIUM - STORAGE ROOM - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

Emil and Emma sneak into a dark storage room. Lights from

the hallway spill through the cracked door.

 

They immediately embrace and kiss. Hot and heavy.

 

 

EXT. UNIVERSITY TOWN - DAY

 

The VW enters the outskirts of a university town.

 

 

INT. HOMESTEAD - MOTEL ROOM - DAY

 

Billy waiting on the phone.

 

                         BILLY

             Jenny?...It's Billy Rhodes. You

             sold me a hamburger this

             afternoon....I was wondering if

             your grandmother knows my

             granddad....I can't wait to tell

             him.

 

He closes his eyes, makes a face, and goes for it.


                                                           24.

 

 

                         BILLY

             Say, I was wondering, are you

             doing anything later?

 

 

EXT. UNIVERSITY TOWN - ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - DAY

 

The VW pulls into the parking lot.

 

 

INT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - FRONT COUNTER - DAY

 

Emil steps up.

 

                         NURSE

             May I help you?

 

                         EMIL

             I'm looking for Emma ...

 

He glances at the slip of paper Martha gave him.

 

                         EMIL

             ...Simpson.

 

 

INT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - HALLWAY - DAY

 

Emil follows the nurse.

 

                         NURSE

             Are you a relative?

 

                         EMIL

             An old friend.

 

                         NURSE

             I'm sure she'll be happy to see you.

 

 

INT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY -  EMMA'S ROOM - DAY

 

EMMA, 70s, sits in a stuffed chair. She's staring at a TV

soap opera. She looks asleep with her eyes open. A knock on

the door.

 

                         NURSE (O.S.)

              Emma, you have company!

 

The door opens and the nurse peeks in.

 

                         NURSE

             Someone to see you, dear.


                                                           25.

 

 

Emma turns to the door. Her static expression hasn't changed.

Emil appears. He sees Emma -- and looks stricken.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - COUNTRY ROAD - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

A car parked on the shoulder of a deserted road.

 

 

INT. CAR - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

Emil and Emma, prom clothes disheveled and askew, making out.

Hotter and heavier.

 

Emil groans and pulls away.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             No, I want to. Emil, I want to.

 

Emil studies her. She kisses him.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             I want to.

 

 

EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

The car door opens. They get out and climb into the back seat.

 

 

INT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY -  EMMA'S ROOM - DAY

 

The nurse lets Emil in.

 

                         NURSE

             I'll let you two visit. Emma, you

             have company!

 

 Emma just sits there.

 

                         NURSE

             It takes her a while, but she'll

             be with you in a minute.

 

The nurse leaves, closing the door behind her.

 

Emil stands inside the doorway.

 

                         EMIL

              Emma? It's Emil. Emil Collins.


                                                           26.

 

 

INT. CAR - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

Emil on top of Emma. She makes a cry of pain.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             Emma?

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             It's okay. Don't stop...please,

             don't stop.

 

 

INT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY -  EMMA'S ROOM - DAY

 

Emil sits down next to Emma.

 

                         EMIL

             Hello, Emma.

 

Emma's expression finally changes. She looks inquisitive.

 

                          EMMA

             Who are you?

 

                         EMIL

             Emil Collins.

 

                          EMMA

             Emil...

 

                         EMIL

             It's been a long time.

 

                          EMMA

             ...Emil.

 

Emil takes her hand.

 

                         EMIL

             Do you remember me?

 

She studies him.

 

                          EMMA

             Of course, I remember you.

 

 

INT. CAR - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

Young Emil and Emma are in the front seat, dressed, after

lovemaking. Her head is on his shoulder.


                                                           27.

 

 

                         EMIL

             One day I'm going to show you the

             most incredible sight in God's

             creation.

 

                         EMMA

             The Goose Necks.

 

                         EMIL

             You have to see it to believe it.

             It makes you feel so small -- and

             yet so ... I don't know what the

             word is. Blessed. To live amidst

             such wonder. To live amidst such

             beauty on Earth.

 

 

INT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY -  EMMA'S ROOM - DAY

 

Emma looks at their joined hands.

 

                         EMIL

             It's been a long time.

 

                          EMMA

             I thought you were dead.

 

                         EMIL

             I should have come long before

             now. There's so much to talk

             about. I don't know where to

             begin. I saw a garden outside.

             Would you like to go out?

 

                          EMMA

             Yes, I think I would.

 

 

INT. HOMESTEAD - CAFE - DAY (FLASHBACK)

 

Emil and Emma in a back booth. They lean close and speak in

hushed tones.

 

Emma has been crying.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             It's going to be okay. I just

             have to think a minute.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             I'm so scared.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             I'll get a job.


                                                           28.

 

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             You can't. You have a scholarship.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             We'll get married. We'll figure a

             way for me to go to college later.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             I feel so horrible. I feel like

             I'm ruining your life.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             Emma, stop it. We're in this

             together.

 

He takes her hand.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             I love you, Emma.

 

 

EXT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - GARDEN - DAY

 

Emil and Emma walk in the garden.

 

                         EMMA

             It's so lovely.

 

                         EMIL

             I was worried when I saw you. You

             looked so ...

 

                         EMMA

             Dead? It's boredom. I am so bored

             in this place!

 

They walk a moment.

 

                         EMIL

             I came here for a reason, Emma. I

             didn't know if I'd find you or

             not. But if I did, I had something

             I had to tell you. I'm going to

             say it now and get it off my

             chest. You don't have to say

             anything. Just listen.

 

                          EMMA

             Well, you certainly have my

             attention.

 

                         EMIL

             I've always regretted not marrying

             you when I had the chance.


                                                           29.

 

 

                          EMMA

             What a sweet thing to say.

 

                         EMIL

             It broke my heart when you

             married somebody else.

 

 Emma turns away.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - WELLS HOME - DAY (FLASHBACK)

 

Emil waiting on the front porch. Emma opens the door.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             Emil, what are you doing here?

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             I need to speak to your father.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             Why?

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             I'm going to ask his permission

             to marry you.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             You can't tell him!

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             I'm just asking for your hand.

             May I see him?

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

                  (frantic)

             No, I think we should wait.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             There's no point.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             But I was just about to call you.

             I have news. Everything's changed,

             Emil. It was what they call a

             false pregnancy. You can go to

             Gonzaga, after all. We can write

             and see each other during the

             holidays, just like we planned.

 

Emil looks stunned. Emma embrace  him.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             It can be just like it was before.


                                                           30.

 

 

But there are tears in her eyes.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - MOTEL - DAY

 

Billy waits outside the hotel room.

 

A car pulls up. Jenny is driving.

 

Billy gets in.

 

 

INT. JENNY'S CAR - DAY

 

Jenny wears casual clothes. She's all smiles.

 

                         JENNY

             I'm glad you called.

 

                         BILLY

             Me, too.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - MOTEL - DAY

 

Jenny's car pulls away and onto Main Street.

 

 

INT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - DINING ROOM - DAY

 

Emil and Emma seated at a table. RUTH, who works in the

kitchen, sets a piece of pie in front of each of them.

 

                         RUTH

             Here we go. Mr. Collins, if this

             isn't the best coconut pie you've

             ever tasted, you let me know.

 

                         EMIL

             It looks delicious.

 

                         RUTH

             Only the best for my girl.

 

She beams at Emma. Emma smiles back. Then Ruth goes back to

the kitchen.

 

An awkward silence.

 

                         EMIL

             Do they let you off the premises?


                                                           31.

 

 

                          EMMA

             It isn't a prison, if that's what

             you mean. But they're responsible

             for me. I have to sign out.

 

                         EMIL

             I was wondering if you'd like to

             go fishing with me.

 

                         EMMA

             I remember how much you like to

             fish.

 

                         EMIL

             I haven't done much lately. City

             life, you know. I live with my

             daughter.

 

                          EMMA

             Tell me about your family.

 

                         EMIL

             After you answer my question. Do

             you want to go fishing?

 

                          EMMA

             I'm not sure they'd let me go

             without supervision. They'd be

             afraid I'd slip on a rock and

             drown myself.

 

                         EMIL

             I'd be there.

 

                          EMMA

             They'd be worried about you for

             the same reason.

 

                         EMIL

             How about you sneak out?

 

                         EMMA

             Oh my!

 

                         EMIL

             I'm serious. I come by early in

             the morning, before anybody's up,

             and take you fishing.

 

                          EMMA

             That sounds like a real adventure.


                                                           32.

 

 

                         EMIL

             You always were the adventurous

             kind. We'd spend the day fishing

             and then I'd bring you back.

 

 

EXT. RIVER - DAY

 

Jenny's car is parked on the shoulder. Below, the river.

 

On the bank, Jenny is preparing her pole. Billy stands

beside her, holding another pole, looking like he has no

idea what to do with it.

 

                         JENNY

             You never even cast before?

 

                         BILLY

             You don't get a lot of chances to

             fish in the city.

 

                         JENNY

             So we'll start at the beginning.

             First, you bait your hook.

 

 

EXT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - PARKING LOT - DAY

 

Emil and Emma stand at the VW.

 

                         EMIL

             I'm going to be here at five in

             the morning. Don't you change

             your mind on me.

 

                          EMMA

             I'll be here.

 

                         EMIL

             Good. We'll have ourselves quite

             a day.

 

He moves forward. They awkwardly embrace.

 

 

EXT. RIVER - DAY

 

Jenny stands behind Billy, showing him how to cast.

 

He casts, reels it in, and casts again.

 

He's a quick learner.


                                                           33.

 

 

EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY

 

Emil in the VW, heading back to Homestead.

 

 

EXT. RIVER - DAY

 

Billy with his line in the water. Beside him, Jenny has her

line in the water.

 

Billy is finally fishing on his own.

 

Above, on the road, the VW passes Jenny's car and heads on.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - SPORTING GOODS STORE - DAY

 

The VW parked outside a sporting goods store.

 

 

INT. SPORTING GOODS STORE - DAY

 

Emil pushing a cart through the store.

 

A tent, a camp stove, three sleeping bags, other camping

equipment piled in the cart.

 

 

EXT. RIVER - DAY

 

Billy has a fish on the line. He reels it in, and Jenny nets

it.

 

                         BILLY

             Is it a salmon?

 

                         JENNY

             A trout. You did great!

 

She raises a hand. Billy high-fives.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - MOTEL - DAY

 

Jenny's car pulls behind the VW and stops. They both get out.

 

Billy sees all the camping gear in the VW.

 

                         JENNY

             Are you going camping?

 

                         BILLY

             I thought we were going fishing.


                                                           34.

 

 

                         JENNY

             They go together.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - DAY

 

Emil is dozing on a bed when the door opens. Billy and Jenny

step in.

 

Emil twitches awake.

 

                         JENNY

             I'd better go.

 

                         BILLY

             We'll be there.

 

                         JENNY

             If you can't, give me a call.

 

She flashes her smile.

 

                         JENNY

             I had a great time, Billy.

 

                         BILLY

             Me, too.

 

She's gone.

 

Emil sits up.

 

                         EMIL

             Who had a great time?

 

                         BILLY

             Jenny. Her grandmother remembers

             you.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - RESIDENTIAL STREET - NIGHT

 

The VW is parked in a driveway.

 

 

INT. HOUSE - DINING ROOM - NIGHT

 

Around the table are Emil, Billy, and Jenny's grandmother,

ANNIE, 60s. The table is filled with serving plates of food.

 

                         EMIL

             I'll take your word for it.


                                                           35.

 

 

                         ANNIE

             You helped me with my homework

             several times. Especially

             Shakespeare. I hated reading that

             stuff.

 

                         BILLY

             You don't remember, Gramps?

 

                         EMIL

             I remembered to put on my pants

             this morning. After that, it gets

             iffy.

 

Jenny enters with one fried breaded trout on a plate.

 

                         JENNY

             Ta da! To the fisherman goes the

             fish!

 

She places the fish in front of him.

 

                         BILLY

             Wow.

 

                         ANNIE

             I don't know about the rest of

             you, but I'm starving. Everybody

             dig in.

 

They do.

 

 

INT. HOUSE - DEN - NIGHT

 

Billy and Jenny are playing a video game.

 

 

INT. HOUSE - KITCHEN - NIGHT

 

Emil is drying dishes. Annie washes.

 

                         ANNIE

             I hardly knew Emma at all. My

             older sister, bless her soul, got

             close to her when Emma was

             pregnant. It was such a bad time

             for her.

 

                         EMIL

             She had a difficult pregnancy?


                                                           36.

 

 

                         ANNIE

             Not being married and all.

             Everybody knew. I don't know what

             she would've done if Brad hadn't

             done the honorable thing and

             married her. Then, no sooner does

             she have the baby, and God takes

             her back. Emma's had such a

             tragic life.

 

Emil looks intense. All this is news to him.

 

 

EXT. HOUSE - PORCH - NIGHT

 

Everyone on the porch.

 

                         ANNIE

             Hope to see you again before you

             leave.

 

                         EMIL

             It was a wonderful dinner. Thanks

             so much.

 

                         JENNY

             Call me, Billy?

 

Billy nods.

 

 

INT. CAR - NIGHT

 

Emil driving.

 

                         EMIL

             I like her. Maybe she can visit

             us at the campground.

 

                         BILLY

             That would be cool.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - NIGHT

 

Both in bed, getting ready for lights out.

 

                         EMIL

             I'll shake you at four.

 

                         BILLY

             You're kidding.


                                                           37.

 

 

                         EMIL

             I'm serious, lad. We pick Emma up

             at five.

 

                         BILLY

             Why so early?

 

                         EMIL

             We have to get her out of there

             before the full staff comes on.

             She's not supposed to go.

 

                         BILLY

             Like we're helping her escape?

 

                         EMIL

             Exactly like that. So lights out.

             Four will be here before you know

             it.

 

 

EXT. MOTEL - DAY

 

Early morning. Emil and Billy come out. Billy walks like

he's half-asleep.

 

 

EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY

 

Emil driving.

 

Ahead, the horizon getting light.

 

 

EXT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - DAY

 

The VW pulls up and stops.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Emil lets the engine idle.

 

Billy is asleep against the window.

 

 

EXT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - DAY

 

Emil gets out.

 

He looks around. What now?

 

A sound.


                                                           38.

 

 

                          EMMA

             Emil...

 

Emma steps out of the shadows. She's carrying a small bag.

 

                         EMIL

             Let me help you.

 

He takes her bag. They walk to the car.

 

Emil taps on the window. Billy jumps awake.

 

                         EMIL

             My grandson.

 

Billy opens the door.

 

                         EMIL

             Billy, this is Emma. Would you

             mind riding in the back seat?

 

Billy yawns.

 

                         BILLY

             Hi. No problem.

 

                          EMMA

             Look at all this. How long are we

             staying?

 

                         EMIL

             Hey, if we have a good time,

             maybe we'll never come back.

 

He helps Emma in. He moves around the car and gets back

behind the wheel.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Emil smiles.

 

                         EMIL

             When it warms up, we'll put the

             top down.

 

A SERIES OF SHOTS