if you rather have a pdf or want to complain about the script email me at
thebreakfastclubsequel@yahoo.com
INT LIVING ROOM - MORNING
The camera moves in on a televised news report about a high
school janitor who died saving the life of a stranded
motorist.
TV ANNOUNCER
..who was hit crossing the street,
attempting to help a stranded
female motorist. The victim is Carl
Reed, the long-time Shermer High
School janitor who was said to be
the eyes and ears of the
institution. He leaves behind a
wife and two children.
The television is turned off.
CUT TO:
INT MANS BEDROOM - DAY
Clothes being packed into suitcases.
CUT TO:
EXT DRIVEWAY OF AN EXPENSIVE HOME
An unseen male putting the suitcases into the backseat of a
custom truck
CUT TO:
EXT. FUNERAL HOME PARKING LOT - EVENING
Cars are pulling in and parking. ANDY CLARK and his wife
ALLISON get out of the family SUV, looking solemn. Dressed in
appropriate funeral garb, Andy and Allison are, as to-be
expected, looking older than we last saw them. They walk
toward the funeral home.
ANDY
Nice timing, with the reunion
tomorrow.
Allison is slightly taken aback.
ALLISON
(sarcastic)
Yes.
Was sure nice of him to get hit by
the car the same week as our
reunion.
ANDY
Not sure if I'd use the word nice.
Convenient, maybe.
ALLISON
That was sarcasm. Convenient is a
terrible word. Tragic comes to
mind. Terrible. Horrible.
Andy is properly chastised.
ANDY
(irritated)
Okay, it was the wrong word. As
usual. Can we leave it at that,
please.
CUT TO:
EXT. FUNERAL HOME PARKING LOT - EVENING
BRIAN JOHNSON and his wife BECKY JOHNSON are exiting their
minivan, which has seen better days. Brian is older and his
wife is a heavy woman.
BRIAN
Please don't mention the job
situation.
BECKY
Why not? Maybe someone will give
you a job.
They start walking toward the funeral home.
BRIAN
Yes, I'm sure half the people there
will be in need an out-of-work
industrial mathematician.
BECKY
Just trying to help. The consultant
thing isn't working out very well.
And you need to rewrite your resume
tonight. I highlighted the areas
that need work.
Brian rolls his eyes as they continue to walk.
BECKY (CONT'D)
And another thing....
CUT TO:
EXT. FUNERAL HOME PARKING LOT - EVENING
The door to a three year old Lexus door opens. Inside sits
CLAIRE and her seventeen-year-old-son, BLAINE, getting out of
the car.
Claire is older, but still has her signature red hair. She is
dressed in a bright dress, perhaps a little too flashy for a
funeral. Blaine is in typical teen clothing, baggy shorts and
shirt.
BLAINE
Are there going to be people here
that you know?
CLAIRE
Probably.
BLAINE
So you're going to want to stay
after and sell them a house or
something?
CLAIRE
No, and I'm offended that you would
think that I would use a funeral to
try and do some business.
BLAINE
Wouldn't be the first time.
The camera follows them into the door. There are signs to the
viewing rooms and one sign that points to a lounge.
CLAIRE
Go to the lounge downstairs and
text or listen to music or
something.
He moves toward the steps before turning around.
BLAINE
Why couldn't I just stay with
Grandma or at the hotel?
CLAIRE
Because I don't trust you alone at
the hotel and grandma still has
that restraining order.
Blaine is speechless.
CLAIRE (CONT'D)
Just kidding; grandma's got a date
tonight
She kisses his cheek and walks toward the viewing room.
CUT TO:
INT. FUNERAL HOME - EVENING
People are milling about when Claire comes across a smiling
face. It's BRIAN JOHNSON. They pause for a moment, and then
an uncomfortable hug follows.
BRIAN
Hey. Claire. You look great.
CLAIRE
Brian, you too.
BRIAN
Terrible about Carl.
CLAIRE
Yeah. Bad way to go. Just before
retirement. How are you? What are
you doing these days?
BRIAN
I'm good. Good. Working, you know.
CLAIRE
What do you do?
BRIAN
I'm an industrial mathematician,
pharmaceutical.
Claire
A throat clears behind Brian and after a moment Becky taps on
his shoulder.
BECKY
Who is this, Brian?
Brian suddenly turns around and sees her.
BRIAN
Honey, this is Claire, an old
friend from high school. Claire,
this is my wife, Becky.
CLAIRE
Hi, nice to meet you, Becky.
She reaches a hand out to Becky who regards it for a moment
then reaches her hand out to shake.
BECKY
So you went to school together?
CLAIRE
Yes.
BECKY
Funny, I don't remember every
hearing about you. I didn't think
Brian had a girlfriend in high
school. He said he was a virgin
when we got married.
Brian and Claire are both very uncomfortable. Claire fakes
like she see's a friend. She waves to an unseen person.
CLAIRE
Oh, excuse me. Nice to meet you.
Claire walks away from them. Brian turns to Becky.
BRIAN
Why did you have say that?
Becky looks confused, like she doesn't think she did anything
wrong.
CUT TO:
INT. FUNERAL HOME - EVENING
The camera follows Claire around. An elderly woman comes up
to Claire. She points a finger at Claire.
OLD WOMAN
I remember you.
Claire looks closer at the woman, trying to figure out who
she is.
CLAIRE
You do?
OLD WOMAN
You were in one of my classes.
Claire thinks for a moment, then finally recognizes her.
CLAIRE
Mrs. Ashley?
OLD WOMAN
Yes, that's me. I think it was home
economics. I don't remember your
name but I don't think you were a
very good student.
Claire is a little insulted.
CLAIRE
Claire Standish.
OLD WOMAN
Of course Claire. How are you,
dear?
CLAIRE
I'm fine.
The old woman continues to look at Claire's hair for a moment
too long.
OLD WOMAN
Claire, I've always wanted to know.
Is that your natural color?
Claire rolls her eyes.
CUT TO:
EXT FUNERAL HOME PARKING LOT - NIGHT
Out in the parking lot a huge custom truck with California
plates drives around the parking lot looking for a place to
park. The license plate holder says Bender Custom Bikes.
CUT TO:
INT JOHN'S TRUCK - NIGHT
Inside the truck, a clean-cut JOHN BENDER drives the
behemoth, as his beautiful seventeen-year-old daughter JENNY
(who looks about 23) sits next to him, texting on her phone.
John tries to fit his truck into a small parking space, but
the truck is too big.
JENNY
How about that? This is too big for
those little spots. You should
drive a smaller vehicle, you know,
for the environment.
JOHN
You could have ridden here on the
back of one of my bikes.
JENNY
I don't think so, Dad. There is no
way I would have ridden all this
way on one of those noisy,
uncomfortable things.
JOHN
All the more reason.
He smiles at his daughter. He finally finds a spot and pulls
in. He looks at himself in the mirror, checking his hair,
teeth.
JENNY
Nervous?
JOHN
(too quickly)
No! Why would I be?
Jenny laughs.
JENNY
Because you haven't been back here
for almost twenty-some-odd years.
John looks again in the mirror.
JOHN
Okay, maybe a little nervous.
This is a different John Bender, more confident, less cocky.
A man at ease with himself and comfortable in his own skin.
They get out of the truck.
John smooths out his suit as Jenny comes over to straighten
his tie. He smiles at her.
JOHN (CONT'D)
You're just like your mother,
always taking care of me. What am I
going to do when you go to college?
JENNY
I don't know maybe find a nice
woman?
INT FUNERAL HOME
John and Jenny walk in the funeral home and look at the signs
for the correct room. They walk along when Brian walks toward
them. He slows to look at John as slight smile crosses his
face.
BRIAN
Bender?
A big smile crosses John's face as he reaches out a hand.
JOHN
Brian Johnson. Wow, it's great to
see you!
They shake hands.
BRIAN
I didn't know you were coming in
for the reunion.
JOHN
I didn't know myself until I heard
about Carl. Felt like I wanted to
be here for him.
BRIAN
That's great that you came. You're
in California now?
JOHN
Yeah. Been there since '86, love
it. What about you?
BRIAN
North of here. Arlington Heights.
Went to University of Michigan and
came back to the area.
JOHN
That's great! What are you doing
for a living?
BRIAN
I have a small consulting firm, do
a little work around the area.
Brian wants to change the subject and notices Jenny standing
there.
BRIAN (CONT'D)
And who is the lovely lady?
John beams with pride.
JOHN
This is my beautiful daughter,
Jenny.
Brian shakes her hand.
BRIAN
Your dad and were kinda friends in
high school. When his cool friends
weren't around to see him talking
to me. He was the coolest guy that
would actually acknowledge me.
Just then Becky walks up to them and stands there
impatiently. Brian notices her and rushes to introduce them.
BRIAN (CONT'D)
Honey, this is John Bender and his
daughter Jenny. This is my wife
Becky.
They all shake, and there is something on Becky's mind. Becky
smiles then points at John.
BECKY
John Bender! Is this the same John
Bender that put his bag of pot in
your pants that one time in
detention?
Brian could die and John and Jenny are completely
embarrassed. Becky looks him up and down.
BECKY (CONT'D)
I thought the way you describe him
that he was in a motorcycle gang or
something. This guy looks like a
senator.
CUT TO:
INT. FUNERAL HOME LOUNGE - EVENING
Alone in the downstairs sitting area, Blaine is texting away,
listening to music. He glances at the stairs to see a nice
pair of legs descending the stairs.
A few steps later, the legs reveal Jenny. She reaches the
bottom and sits across from him. He smiles shyly and takes
off his headphones and stops texting. He tries small talk.
BLAINE
Here for a funeral?
Ouch, that was stupid. She nods and smiles and then pulls out
her phone to checks her texts.
BLAINE (CONT'D)
Of course you are, why else would
someone come to one of these
places?
Jenny looks up and speak softly.
JENNY
I'm a necrophilic. I get excited by
dead people. I want to be a
mortician.
She goes back to her phone. Blaine can't speak or even close
his mouth. His attention is interrupted by the sound of
footsteps on the stairs.
John comes down the stairs, looks at Blaine, and then turns
his attention to Jenny.
JOHN
Any messages for me?
Jenny looks up.
JENNY
You have your own phone and
messages. You should check them
sometime.
JOHN
I don't carry my phone; everyone
knows they can contact me through
you.
JENNY
They shouldn't. I should just
delete them.
John frowns and goes to the water fountain for a drink of
water. More footsteps are heard coming down the steps.
A woman's this time. It's Claire. She reaches the bottom and
smiles at Blaine.
CLAIRE
You okay Blaine, honey?
John leaning over the drinking fountain. That voice. He
straightens and looks over as Claire turns to him. Their eyes
meet and both lose their breath for a moment.
JOHN
Claire...
CLAIRE
John. Hello. Wow. Been a long time.
JOHN
Over 25 years. Since I've been back
in Illinois.
Jenny notices the awkwardness.
JENNY
Dad, I'm going outside to get some
air.
JOHN
Sure honey.
Jenny looks at Blaine.
JENNY
You wanna hear that song I was
talking about?
Blaine doesn't get it at first.
JENNY (CONT'D)
Dude. The song.
She points to her phone.
BLAINE
(getting it)
Sure, yes, I would.
He gets up and the kids walk up the stairs. Claire finally
speaks.
CLAIRE
Terrible about Carl. The poor guy
was close to retirement.
JOHN
Oh yea?
CLAIRE
Couple years, I heard. Full
pension.
JOHN
That's a shame. I always liked
Carl. Even if he did steal my weed
right out of my locker.
CLAIRE
Really?
JOHN
Yeah.
They both laugh then are quiet for a moment.
CLAIRE
You never responded to the reunion
invitations.
JOHN
I wasn't sure I would come. Not
many good memories here.
CLAIRE
Here meaning the state or the
people in the state?
JOHN
Little bit of everything. You look
good
CLAIRE
You too. California really suits
you.
JOHN
It feels like home. From the day I
got there.
CLAIRE
Your daughter is beautiful.
JOHN
Thank you, but it doesn't come from
me. Obviously.
Claire laughs.
CLAIRE
You're doing a wonderful job with
her. After the thing.
JOHN
Thanks. We have our days. But it's
mostly pretty good.
CLAIRE
I've seen your bikes, they are
beautiful. You're an artist. I even
bought a one of the shirts with
your logo.
JOHN
I hope you don't wear it around
here. It's kind of embarrassing.
CLAIRE
It shouldn't be. Just wanted you to
know I've been keeping up with what
you're doing, with your life.
JOHN
Stalking me now?
CLAIRE
I have a bit more time on my hands
these days.
CUT TO:
INT FUNERAL HOME - NIGHT
Blaine and Jenny are walking toward the door.
JENNY
Your mom is Claire?
BLAINE
Yep. He's John Bender?
JENNY
Yep. This should be fun.
CUT TO:
INT FUNERAL HOME LOUNGE - MOMENTS LATER
Claire smiles sadly at John.
CLAIRE
You never email me back. I got one
letter thanking me for the flowers
and then nothing.
JOHN
I appreciated you sending them.
They stare at each other for a moment, unsure of what to say.
Andy and Allison come downstairs, interrupting the
uncomfortable silence that two people who have been intimate
have after a break-up.
Claire looks at Allison and smiles.
ALLISON
Come here and give me a hug.
Andy and John shake hands as Claire hugs Allison tightly.
Andy looks over at the girls.
ANDY
Yea, nice. Maybe put your leg up a
little higher.
The guys laugh.
ALLISON
(to the guys)
Pervs. Even at a funeral.
(to Claire)
How are you?
CLAIRE
Good. Finally.
Allison points upstairs.
ALLISON
Was that Blaine I saw up there?
Wow, he got big, almost grown up.
CLAIR
He's going to be a senior this
year.
John and Andy embrace.
ANDY
Mr. Bike builder! You're getting to
be a big deal now. That's great.
John is a little embarrassed.
JOHN
Shhh, keep it down. It's funny what
one television show can do for
business.
ANDY
I thought your bike should have
won.
JOHN
You want one?
ANDY
One of your bikes?
JOHN
Yeah.
ANDY
Can't. Health reasons. I like
living. I'd kill myself the first
day.
They all laugh.
ALLISON
We should probably go back
upstairs.
JOHN
I paid my respects and now I'm
getting out of here. I'm not one
for funerals.
ANDY
I'm all for that. Funerals suck.
Just cremate me and throw me in
Lake Michigan. I'm sure Allison
agrees with that.
They start walking upstairs.
ALLISON
Buy one of Johns bikes and they can
just hose you down the nearest
drain.
JOHN
That's not fair. Bikes don't kill
people. Bad drivers kill bikers.
CUT TO:
INT. FUNERAL HOME - EVENING
They are walking up the stairs when they meet up with Brian
and his wife.
BRIAN
Hey guys. What's going on?
John puts his arm around Brian.
JOHN
I'm starved, lets all go get to get
something to eat. My treat.
ANDY
Sounds good to me.
ALLISON
The sitter is suppose to be home by
ten, but you are all welcome to
come over to the house. We can get
some pizza.
Claire and John agree.
CLAIRE
That would be fun.
Becky looks at her phone.
BECKY
Sorry. We can't go.
Brian is puzzled.
BRIAN
We can't?
BECKY
No. I have somewhere to be.
Brian really wants to go with his friends.
BECKY (CONT'D)
(to Brian)
And you have important things to do
on the computer tonight.
CLAIRE
Brian, I can drive you there. If
it's okay with your wife.
Brian looks at Becky.
BRIAN
(almost pleading)
It's just for a little while
Becky isn't happy, but she relents.
BECKY
Fine, but I'll will come pick him
up at 11:00. No later.
She checks her watch.
BECKY (CONT'D)
I have to go. Give me the keys to
the van.
Brian hands her the keys.
BECKY (CONT'D)
Text me the directions by ten
thirty. No later.
They all watch her walk out.
JOHN
Brian, I thought is was against the
law to marry your mother.
They all laugh except Brian who just sighs as they all start
walking out.
JOHN (CONT'D)
Andy, I need directions.
CUT TO:
EXT. PARKING LOT - NIGHT
Brian is outside Claire's car door when Blaine comes over.
BLAINE
Mom, Jenny invited me to ride in
their truck to watch videos of her
friends band.
CLAIRE
(yelling to John)
John, is it okay?
JOHN
Yes but he rides in the back alone.
The kids are embarrassed.
CUT TO:
INT CLAIRES CAR - MOMENTS LATER
Claire and Brian pull out of the parking lot.
CLAIRE
Your wife seems, um...nice.
Brian looks at her like she's crazy.
BRIAN
You're kidding right?
Claire laughs.
CLAIRE
Was she like that when you married
her?
BRIAN
Of course not, it took years for
her to morph into her mother.
Claire laughs.
CLAIRE
How are you? Kids? What do you do?
BRIAN
I'm oaky, for the most part. Two
kids. Scared to death of her. But
who wouldn't be.
Claire laughs.
BRIAN (CONT'D)
I'm serious. Aren't you?
CLAIRE
A little.
CUT TO:
INT JOHN'S TRUCK
The music blasts as Blaine watches the video on the monitors
in the headrests
BLAINE
Wow they are really good.
JENNY
Yep, they had over 50,000 hits on
Youtube.
John's not sure what he heard over the music.
JOHN
Hits? Are you talking about drugs?
JENNY
No Dad, Youtube hits. You know that
site you watch with the old videos
from MTV?
JOHN
Right, when MTV played videos
instead of just tanned people from
New Jersey and pregnant teenagers.
Jenny and Blaine roll their eyes.
CUT TO:
INT ANDYS VAN - MOMENTS LATER
Andy and Allison are in the van.
ANDY
Can you believe how old everyone
got?
ALLISON
We did too.
ANDY
Not like that, I mean I look good,
right?
He looks up at the rearview mirror, looks at his face then at
her.
ALLISON
Yes, you look great.
Andy smiles appreciatively, while Allison waits for a
returned compliment. Andy flexes a little, then smiles to
himself.
CUT TO:
INT CLAIRES CAR - MOMENTS LATER
Claire and Brian continue their ride.
CLAIRE
So why did you get married?
BRIAN
I don't know.
Claire laughs.
CLAIRE
You don't know? Weren't you in
love?
BRIAN
I was. I am. I was finishing school
and she came along. She was
ambitious. And relentless. I liked
that.
CLAIRE
You didn't have to marry her did
you?
BRIAN
You mean..?
CLAIRE
Yes.
Brian understands.
BRIAN
We thought we did. False alarm. And
the plans were already in place so
we did it.
CUT TO:
EXT CLARK'S HOUSE - NIGHT
Andy and Allison's home is a large family home in a middle
class neighborhood. The three vehicles pull into the driveway
and exit the vehicles. They all walk up to the front door.
JOHN
This house is very familiar.
ANDY
We bought it from the Lanigans? Do
you remember them. Their boys
played ball. One was really good.
JOHN
No. This was before them.
Allison gets the door open and the inside of the house is
trashed. Andy doesn't seem phased.
Their four boys come tearing through the living room, with
the haggard babysitter following behind.
BABYSITTER
Come on guys!
She sees Allison and stops.
BABYSITTER (CONT'D)
I'm sorry Mrs. Clark. I've been
trying to get them in bed.
Allison walks over, almost comforting her.
ALLISON
I know, they can be a handful.
She walks the babysitter to the door and hands her a twenty
dollar bill.
ALLISION
This good?
The babysitter snaps the twenty-dollar bill and walks out the
door. She stops halfway down the walk and turns around.
BABYSITTER
If they try anymore wrestling moves
on me, I'm charging double. Those
legs lock things hurt.
She turns and continues on her way.
CUT TO:
INT LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Having witnessed that scene, everyone makes themselves
comfortable in the living room.
JOHN
(to Andy)
Teaching the kids life skills, I
see.
ANDY
Just want them to be able to
protect themselves.
BRIAN
I'm sure their future dates will
thank you.
Allison walks toward the kitchen.
ALLISON
What can I get everyone to drink?
CLAIRE
Wine, please.
BRIAN
Beer, if you have one.
ANDY
We do have beer. You want one John?
JOHN
No thanks, ice tea or diet anything
will be good thanks.
John looks at his daughter then to Andy.
JOHN (CONT'D)
(to Andy)
Is there somewhere the kids can go
watch television?
ANDY
They can go in the den.
Allison returns with drinks for everyone. Andy points them in
the right direction.
ANDY (CONT'D)
Go straight through the kitchen,
can't miss it. Remote's somewhere
down there.
Jenny and Blaine get up and leave the room. The adults are
alone and get settled in with their drinks.
BRIAN
So how's California, John?
JOHN
It's good. Really good. It's my
peaceful place.
ALLISON
You really haven't been back in all
this time?
JOHN
Nope. First time back. Everything's
changed so much.
John looks around the room.
JOHN (CONT'D)
This house hasn't though. I was in
here before. A couple times.
ANDY
You said something about that
before.
Claire senses where this is going.
CLAIRE
Do we really want to hear this
story?
John smiles a little.
JOHN
Probably not.
BRIAN
But you're going to tell us anyway.
Brian looks around to all of them.
BRIAN (CONT'D)
We can think of it as a history
lesson from the book of John. If
these walls could talk.
Everyone laughs.
CLAIRE
Okay, but if this gets gross, I'm
walking out of the room.
JOHN
(to Andy and Allison)
You have the master bedroom with
the glass shower right?
Brian laughs.
CLAIRE
Oh, no.
Allison has an almost disgusted look on their faces.
ALLISON
Uh, yeah.
JOHN
Does anyone remember Audrey
Dombrowski?
They think a bit.
CLAIRE
I think so. Long blonde hair?
Bleached.
ALLISON
Stuffed her bra, too.
John smiles.
JOHN
No. She didn't.
CLAIRE
Don't tell me you did her. She was
so shy...
ANDY
...and her dad was a cop, if I'm
remembering correctly.
JOHN
Yes. And he didn't like me at all.
Arrested me for anything he could
think of.
CLAIRE
Hence the appeal Audrey had for
you.
ALLISON
(to Claire)
Something your familiar with.
Claire blushes and smiles.
CLAIRE
He did have a certain bad-boy
appeal.
John smiles back at her.
BRIAN
So what happened with Audrey?
JOHN
Okay, well her dad was a cop,
worked the night shift. Her mom was
going out somewhere, I don't
remember where, but Audrey invited
me over.
CLAIRE
I don't believe that. You probably
stopped over and made up some
story.
JOHN
No, she honestly invited me over.
BRIAN
So you show up and...?
JOHN
So I show up there and she's in
little shorts and tee shirt.
CLAIRE
I'm starting not to like this. Can
we just get to the moral of the
story?
ANDY
I don't think this story involves
any morals.
Everyone laughs.
JOHN
(to Claire)
Do you want to just cut to the part
where her dad is chasing me down
the street with a billy club in one
hand and his service pistol in the
other?
ANDY
I want to hear it.
BRIAN
Me too.
ALLISON
I just want to hear about the part
that concerns our house.
Claire slumps back in her seat.
CLAIRE
Go ahead.
JOHN
So I come over and we are watching
MTV and start kissing. Then more
and more and she asks if I want to
take a shower. And stupid me, I'm
like, no, I want to stay here with
you.
They all laugh.
JOHN (CONT'D)
She says, no I mean with me. I was
kind of afraid, because I don't
want to get into a position where I
can't get the hell out if her old
man comes home.
ANDY
You weren't friends with him?
They all laugh. John smiles.
JOHN
Nope. Something about me and
fathers, including my own, but
that's another story altogether.
Anyway she tells me that he won't
be home until morning, he never
comes home during his shift and her
mom won't be home for hours.
ALLISON
So she led you astray? You were the
innocent one in this story?
BRIAN
Hmmm. Something smells fishy.
JOHN
Honest to god, this is the way it
happened.
So we go take a shower together, my
first time with a naked girl in the
light. And it was amazing.
Andy and Brian laugh appreciatively while Claire silently
fumes.
ALLISON
So they were real?
JOHN
What?
ALLISON
Her boobs, she was like a C cup in
6th grade. I was so jealous.
JOHN
Very real. So we are showering and
I'm afraid to touch her. I know
it's hard to believe, but I was. So
after watching her soap up and
rinse off, I'm a wreck, I can't
think straight. We get out and are
toweling off in the bedroom when
she asks me to dry them. I take the
towel and BAM, it happens.
BRIAN
What happens?
JOHN
It. You know...the thing every man
fears.
ANDY
You couldn't get it up?
JOHN
The exact opposite.
John points to his crotch. They all get it now. Allison is
repulsed.
JOHN (CONT'D)
All over the carpet.
Everyone is completely disgusted.
ALLISON
Thanks John. You just ruined my
bedroom for me forever. I will
never have sex in there again.
ANDY
Why? The carpet was replaced years
ago.
Everyone laughs except Allison.
CLAIRE
Then her dad came home, right?
JOHN
Just then we hear the front door
open. And it's her dad. We freak.
He's coming up the steps and my
only option is the window. So we
get it open and I'm climbing out
with my pants and shirt when her
dad comes into the room. All hell
breaks loose. He's yelling, she's
screaming, I'm outside trying to
put on my pants as fast as I can
because I know, he's coming around
back to kill me.
CLAIRE
Rightly so.
JOHN
I get my pants on and start for the
gate but he beat me there. I turn
and run to the other side, jump the
fence and tear ass. I hear him jump
the fence and start after me. We're
running down the street and he's
yelling to stop or he'll shoot and
all that. I know he's not going
shoot.
ANDY
Or you hope not anyway.
JOHN
So I look back and this crazed
father has a gun in one hand and
the billy club in the other, hell
bent on catching my ass.
BRIAN
Did he?
JOHN
Nope, but he found out who I was.
My name was in my boots, which were
sitting next to his bed.
My dad knew about everything before
I even got home.
John turns very somber.
JOHN (CONT'D)
Beat my ass good that night. Think
he threw his empty whiskey bottle
at me too. Missed that time if I
remember correctly. The next day he
laughed about it though, said he
hoped I got her pregnant. Said he
wouldn't mind me having a father-in
law who was a cop so he could stay
out of jail.
ALLISON
They moved after that, didn't they?
JOHN
I think so. I didn't come down this
street again for a whole year.
Allison gets up.
ALLISON
Still doesn't change the fact that
there will never be anything sexual
in that bedroom ever again. I may
not even let the boys in there.
ANDY
That's okay, it doesn't effect me
at all.
Allison shoots him a dirty look.
ALLISON
I'm ordering pizzas. Any requests?
CLAIRE
No mushrooms for me.
JOHN
You'll eat raw fish but you won't
eat mushrooms. Something weird
about that.
Claire smiles sweetly.
CLAIRE
You remembered.
JOHN
Of course. And you still haven't
acquired a taste for pizza?
CLAIRE
Nope, just being me. I'm going to
check on the older kids.
Claire gets up and heads toward the kitchen.
CUT TO:
INT FAMILY ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Claire walks in while Jenny and Blaine are on the couch
watching MTV's Jersey Shore. They are a cushion apart.
CLAIRE
Ugh. Not Jersey Shore. Those kids
are so obnoxious. How can you watch
them?
Both teens look up and smile at Claire, feeling a little
guilty.
BLAINE
Like a train wreck, mom. You have
to watch. No matter how vulgar and
obscene.
CLAIRE
Jenny, do you like this sort of
thing?
JENNY
Well, it is entertaining, in a
voyeuristic sense.
BLAINE
I like to think of them as anti
role models.
Claire smiles.
CLAIRE
Just no r-rated movies.
BLAINE
Mom, I'm almost 18.
CLAIRE
But you're not. Jenny does your dad
allow you to watch R-rated movies?
JENNY
I prefer not to answer. But I can
say that we don't have cable.
CLAIRE
Well I'll take that as a no. Got
it?
Blaine raises his hand a forms a pistol and points it at
Claire.
BLAINE
You got it.
Claire raises her own hand gun and shoots him back.
CLAIRE
Or you'll get it.
She turns and walks out. Blaine immediately turns the TV to a
horror movie.
CUT TO:
INT LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Claire walks back into the living room.
ANDY
Things good in there?
CLAIRE
Yes, the kids are watching MTV, or
what is now MTV.
JOHN
Now its all manufactured crap. That
Sweet Sixteen show almost gave me a
stroke. One of Jenny's friends,
who's dad is a movie producer, gave
her this huge party with a rap star
and everything.
ANDY
I thought that was all made up for
television?
JOHN
Nope, very real and very expensive,
but the guy makes tons of money.
I built him a bike and he didn't
even blink an eye at the price,
just said do it.
CLAIRE
Must be nice.
JOHN
So for Jenny's sweet sixteen, I
offer her a party, not an MTV
party, but a nice one, or a new car
and a cruise for her and some of
her friends.
Brian is impressed.
BRIAN
Will you adopt me and give me a
sweet thirty-sixteen party?
JOHN
Sure. What kind of a car do you
want?
BRIAN
I want one of your bikes.
JOHN
Anytime. At cost for you.
ALLISON
Not that MTV was educational, but
it wasn't..
Allison can't remember where she was going with this.
ALLISON (CONT'D)
Shit! It was important. Okay, name
the first music video played on
MTV?
BRIAN
Video Killed the Radio Star.
ALLISON
By?
BRIAN
The Buggles, of course.
CLAIRE
I knew that.
JOHN
I even knew that one. Now name the
second video.
They all think about it for a while.
ALLISON
Give us a clue.
JOHN
It was a woman.
CLAIRE
Was she part of a band?
JOHN
She had a band, but she was the
name.
ANDY
Joan Jett?
JOHN
Nope.
BRIAN
Madonna?
JOHN
Strike two.
CLAIRE
Pat Benatar?
JOHN
Yep. What song?
Claire thinks while John hums the Jeopardy theme.
JOHN (CONT'D)
And your answer is?
CLAIRE
Love is a Battlefield?
JOHN
Oh, I'm sorry the correct answer is
You Better Run, but thanks for
playing.
CLAIRE
Damn. Okay, Mr. Smarty Pants, name
the first VJs.
JOHN
Names or descriptions?
CLAIRE
Names.
JOHN
Martha Quinn.
ANDY
I had a crush on her.
BRIAN
Me too.
ALLISON
John must have too because he said
her first.
JOHN
Nope, it was the big-haired blonde
one...un..Nina
CLAIRE
Last name?
JOHN
Black...Blackhart..no...Blackwood.
that's it. Nina Blackwood.
CLAIRE
Okay, you got the easy ones.
JOHN
Can I phone a friend?
CLAIRE
Go ahead. Whom will you be calling?
JOHN
I will be calling my friend and
former lover, Brian.
John picks up his cell and pretends to make a call. Brian
pretends to pick up a phone.
BRIAN
Hello?
CLAIRE
Hello, is this Brian, former lover
of John?
BRIAN
What do you mean former?
They all laugh.
ALLISON
Mark, Alan and JJ.
CLAIRE
You're good. Last names?
ALLISON
Goodman, Hunter and Jackson.
Allison looks around embarrassed a bit.
ALLISON (CONT'D)
What? I didn't have any friends.
Andy drains his beer and gets up.
ANDY
Can I get anyone anything?
Brian check his beer.
BRIAN
Sure, I'll have one.
JOHN
No thanks. I'm good.
Andy walks into the kitchen.
ALLISON
(to John)
You don't drink?
This is a hard subject for John.
JOHN
No, but I did for a long time.
After a while I just started
becoming my old man.
Everyone gets quiet.
JOHN (CONT'D)
And that's something I swore I'd
never become.
John leans back. Quiet, introspective.
CLAIRE
You didn't. You became someone we
are all proud of.
John looks around at his old friends.
JOHN
Thanks. That means a lot.
ANDY
Are you in touch with him?
JOHN
Who?
ANDY
Your dad.
John can't answer.
CLAIRE
He died in ninety-two.
ALLISON
I'm sorry. I didn't know.
ANDY
I didn't either.
JOHN
That's okay. Nobody knew. He died
in prison. I didn't even go to the
funeral.
He looks at the shocked faces.
JOHN (CONT'D)
I don't know if it makes me a bad
person or not. I didn't know how
I'd react seeing him there dead, if
I'd break down crying for his
twisted, wretched soul or cry for
the shitty upbringing he gave me.
Either way, I wasn't going to waste
my time on someone who didn't give
a shit about me.
ALLISON
I never knew him, but I think he
would have been proud of what you
have become.
John is dismissive of this thought.
JOHN
No, the bastard would have tried to
take as much of my money as he
could for booze. And I would have
given it to him, just to hear him
say something positive about me.
CLAIRE
You don't need his validation. You
are a successful man, with a
beautiful daughter and a great
life. We are all excited about your
success and are proud of you.
They are all quiet.
BRIAN
Except for the dope in my pants
thing. I hope you didn't smoke that
because I accidentally peed on it.
Everyone cracks up as Brian's phone beeps. He looks at it.
BRIAN (CONT'D)
It's Becky. What's your address
Allison?
ALLISON
1022 Eastway Drive.
Brian types it into his phone.
BRIAN
Thanks.
ANDY
Texting your main form of
communication?
BRIAN
Pretty much. Preferred form of
communication actually.
JOHN
It's that way with Jenny and I.
Easier to keep tabs on her and her
on me.
ANDY
Kids today don't know what it was
like to actually call someone and
have them not be home. All their
friends have phones.
BRIAN
I may have been more popular if we
had cell phones and texting back
then.
CLAIRE
How so?
BRIAN
I would have been tuned into the
scene, found the parties, you know.
ANDY
What makes you think you would have
been invited?
Brian is a little embarrassed.
BRIAN
(sheepishly)
Maybe it wouldn't have helped.
ANDY
Easier on us, but parents then
didn't have to worry as much back
then. As long as they had a general
area and we were home by the time
the streetlights came on, we were
good.
CLAIRE
Sometimes I wonder if our parents
had it easier.
ALLISON
What do you mean?
CLAIRE
We have to worry about texts, the
internet, child molesters, killers,
rapists. Our parents didn't have to
worry about all that stuff.
JOHN
Mine didn't worry about anything.
BRIAN
My mom use to worry about me
getting abducted and killed. I had
to call home all the time if I was
at a sleepover. It was
embarrassing. I couldn't even walk
to school by myself.
ANDY
I don't blame her, you had a slight
build, innocent-looking.
The guys laugh.
ALLISON
This isn't a funny subject.
CLAIRE
I agree. Let's change the subject.
JOHN
I know I would have gotten laid
more if there were cell phones when
we were kids.
Claire clears her throat.
CLAIRE
What?
JOHN
(to Claire)
Before you, I meant.
ANDY
Like you needed to get laid more.
BRIAN
You probably had more by the time
you were fifteen than I had by the
time I was...uh...eighteen.
CLAIRE
Do we really need to get into this?
It's in the past.
ANDY
(to Claire)
You wanted to change the subject.
CLAIRE
Not to this. What do you guys think
about today's music?
ANDY
I don't. It's just noise.
BRIAN
I don't know about music at all, I
only listen to talk radio.
ALLISON
I like some of it. Lady Gaga has
some good songs.
ANDY
We talk about this all the time.
It's manufactured crap. Someone
with talent writes the songs and
computer nerds make "singer" sound
passable.
ALLISON
American Idol makes them sing.
ANDY
Karaoke contest.
CLAIRE
At least they can carry a tune.
ALLISON
Some of them.
JOHN
Few of them.
ANDY
I wouldn't know, I stop watching
after the bad ones are kicked off.
Brian laughs.
BRIAN
I love those. Especially the ones
that are offended that they got
kicked off.
JOHN
The ones whose parents tell them
how great they are and they are
star material. They put these
illusions in kids head that are
completely irrational, then wonder
why their kids end up on drugs.
ANDY
Just like the athletic leagues and
all the school events where every
kid who enters gets a trophy or
ribbon for participating. What are
these kids going to do when they
fail in real life? When nobody is
there to give them a ribbon or tell
them that they did their best?
BRIAN
They give my kids team a trophy
even though they lost every game.
But they don't really care, it's
not about winning and losing, just
playing.
Allison disagrees
ALLISON
That's a good thing though. They
should get something for playing.
It's not about competition, it's
about having fun.
CLAIRE
Helps their self-esteem.
ANDY
But doesn't that send a message
that says "Don't worry about
winning or being the best, you'll
still be a winner anyway"? America
didn't get to be a superpower by
doing mediocre work. People
strives, they innovated. Are these
coddles and spoiled kids going to
have the same drive to succeed?
JOHN
I had a guy apply for an internship
and actually brought his mother in
for the interview. Actually drove
him there. I sat there in awe while
she ran through her son's
qualifications.
ANDY
And what happened?
JOHN
After she was done building her son
up, I ask if she would also be
joining us when we went to Daytona
Beach for bike week and if she had
any objection to her son seeing
mostly naked woman on the bikes.
The guys all crack up. Allison and Claire stifle smiles of
their own.
JOHN (CONT'D)
And the funny thing was that she
willing to go and share a room with
him.
ALLISON
So did you hire him?
John smiles and nods his head.
JOHN
Absolutely. The kid was so honest
and so scared of everything that I
hired him to do accounting. He
checks and double checks
everything. Best employee ever. I
have to tell him it's okay to go
home every night.
Everyone laughs.
BRIAN
I can totally see my mom doing
that. Still to this day.
(pause)
Maybe I'll have her come to my next
interview.
CLAIRE
I talk to my mom almost every day.
JOHN
(to Claire)
Because you want to or because you
feel guilty?
Claire thinks a bit.
CLAIRE
Little of both, I suppose. I don't
see her as much as I'd like, but I
can't fly us down to Miami whenever
she feels the urge to see us. Even
if she offers to pay
ALLISON
She still like it there?
CLAIRE
For the most part. She has a
gentleman friend now, as she calls
him. I still don't know how I feel
about that, my fathers only been
dead a few years.
ANDY
A few years? That seems long enough
in my book.
CLAIRE
He wasn't really there the last few
years anyway.
BRIAN
Was he sick?
CLAIRE
No, just busy working. He traveled
all the time. She was lonely even
before he died.
ANDY
(looking at Allison)
At least they stayed together,
through everything.
Claire notices something in the tone of Andy's voice.
CLAIRE
I'm going to go and check on the
kids.
Claire gets up and walks into the kitchen.
CUT TO:
INT FAMILY ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Claire walks into the family room. Jenny and Blaine are on
the couch watching a movie. They closer now.
CLAIRE
What are you two watching?
Both teens look up.
BLAINE
Some old movie.
Claire looks at the screen and it the movie "Out of Africa."
CLAIRE
Out of Africa! I love that movie.
She moves to sit in a chair.
BLAINE
Zzzzzzzzz.
Blaine fakes sleeping to show his absolute disdain for the
movie.
JENNY
I love it too.
BLAINE
Sorry, just not my cup of tea.
CLAIRE
Nothing is, you don't drink tea.
Jenny giggles.
BLAINE
Mom, isn't it time to get back to
your friends?
He wants her out so he can be alone with Jenny.
CLAIRE
Sorry, honey. I'll leave.
BLAINE
Bye Mom.
CLAIRE
Bye.
Claire waves and walks out.
CUT TO:
INT LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Claire rejoins the group in the living room.
CLAIRE
The kids are good. Watching Out of
Africa.
ALLISON
I love that movie.
Andy rolls his eyes.
ANDY
Booooooorrrrring.
JOHN
I'll have to agree. I didn't make
it through it. Either time.
CLAIRE
I can't believe you sat there
watching something that didn't
involve sex, guns or motorcycles.
JOHN
I was trying to get a little
culture.
BRIAN
And probably in some girls pants.
John smiles.
JOHN
That too. The first time.
ALLISON
And the second time?
John gets quiet.
JOHN
When Kim was dying.
He looks up. Only Claire knows about Kim, Johns wife and
Jenny's mother who passed away. John fills in the parts for
the rest of them.
JOHN (CONT'D)
Jenny's mom. We'd sit and watch
movies all night because she had
trouble sleeping. The medication
and chemo.
ALLISON
I'm sorry. I didn't know.
JOHN
It's okay. I can talk about it more
now.
BRIAN
How long ago?
JOHN
She got sick in 2001. Stayed with
us until '04 when she lost her
battle.
He looks up at the sad faces and sheds a tear.
JOHN (CONT'D)
I always do this.
He wipes the tear away.
ANDY
I can't imagine that. Watching the
person you love...
He doesn't want to say the word.
JOHN
It's okay. She died. Like all of us
will one day.
Brian tries to lighten the mood.
BRIAN
Hope it's later rather than sooner.
I kind of like living. Most of the
time.
JOHN
Me too, but I don't fear dying
anymore. I use to be, but not
anymore.
ANDY
(joking)
So did you find God or something?
John looks at him seriously.
JOHN
Yes. I did.
They all kind of look at him.
ALLISON
That's great, if you happen to
believe in that sort of thing.
Andy rolls his eyes. He doesn't want this can of worms
opened.
BRIAN
(to Allison)
You don't believe in God?
ALLISON
No. I don't believe that there is
an all-powerful man controlling us,
our actions. I don't believe in
life after death either. I think
this is it.
BRIAN
So what happens to our soul, in
your opinion?
ALLISON
Nothing, just nothingness. Like
before you were born. There was
nothing.
ANDY
(trying to lighten things
up)
Well then if this is it, lets drink
some more. Who's up for shots?
Claire is uncomfortable.
CLAIRE
I don't like talking about this. It
gives me the creeps.
BRIAN
I believe in something. Not really
sure what, but I do. Analytically
speaking, everything has to be made
by something or someone. I'm not
much for organized religion, I
think it causes more harm than
good.
ALLISON
Religion was made to control the
masses, to give them something to
fear. "Hey, you'll spend eternity
in Hell if you step out of line."
Andy laughs.
ANDY
As you can see, Allison and I don't
attend church on a regular basis.
They all laugh.
JOHN
Our belief and talking with people
helped us deal with her passing.
BRIAN
You and Jenny?
John nods.
ALLISON
How can you believe in a God that
allows a loving wife and mother to
die, while allowing murderers to
wander the streets killing innocent
people?
JOHN
Of course we've ask ourselves that
a million times, and there is no
answer. It just happens.
ALLISON
Shit happens. Forrest Gump.
Everyone looks at Allison.
ALLISON (CONT'D)
Sometimes I say things without
thinking. Sorry.
CLAIRE
I just don't deal with death very
well. If I ignore it, I don't have
to deal with it.
JOHN
I use to think that Kim dying was
God punishing me for my past, but
now I know that's not true. I don't
know the exact reason right now,
but everything will eventually be
revealed to me.
Allison is skeptical.
ALLISON
So you are all religious and stuff
John, have you been with any women
since it happened?
A serious John looks her dead in the eyes.
JOHN
Absolutely not. And I won't until
and if I ever get married again.
This blows away the guys.
BRIAN
Wow. That's a serious commitment.
ANDY
With your money and all the hot
girls out there?
JOHN
I don't care about them, I made a
vow. I intend to keep it. I'm not
tempted by other women.
ANDY
But you're still a man. You have
urges, don't you?
JOHN
When they happen, I pray and think
of Kim and the urges subside.
BRIAN
Nothing like the thought of death
to curb an urge.
ALLISON
I never thought that John Bender
would turn into such a priest.
JOHN
Not a priest, just a servant of
God.
Just then, the doorbell rings.
ANDY
Pizza, that's the answer to my
prayers.
All of them laugh and the tension is gone.
CUT TO:
INT. KITCHEN TABLE - MOMENTS LATER
The five of them are sitting around the table eating good
Chicago-style pizza.
BRIAN
This is such good pizza. Becky
likes the thin, cardboard crust
stuff.
ALLISON
If I'm going to eat pizza, it's
going to be good stuff. No matter
how many calories are in it.
She notices Claire's empty plate.
ALLISON(CONT'D)
Claire, get another piece.
CLAIRE
No way, I'm stuffed. That was too
many calories. So tell us, John,
what celebrities have you met?
JOHN
Please don't do this. I feel like
such a name dropper when people ask
me this.
ANDY
We know you aren't. Much.
ALLISON
Yeah, John. Go ahead and drop. We
won't hold it against you.
Jenny walks in the kitchen, having heard the last part. She
urges John on.
JENNY
(to John)
Come on Dad, tell them.
(to them all)
Brad Pitt has been to our house.
They are all impressed.
BRIAN
No shit?
John explains.
JOHN
We built a bike for him. He came
over so I could make some small
adjustments.
JENNY
And tell them the rest.
Jenny picks up a piece of pizza.
JOHN
And we ride together sometimes,
okay?
Jenny smiles.
JENNY
Their kids are so cute. Excellent
pizza. We don't have this in
California.
And she leaves the room.
CLAIRE
What other secrets are you keeping
from us, John? A run for governor?
Pope?
John smiles.
JOHN
Just being a dad is good enough for
me.
ALLISON
Jenny seems like a great kid.
John is proud.
JOHN
Not from me, thank God. What about
your boys, Allison?
Allison sighs heavily.
ALLISON
At least you know with boys, you
don't worry about them getting
pregnant.
Everyone laughs.
ALLISON (CONT'D)
I keep reminding myself that they
are just boys. They do boy stuff.
ANDY
Once I get them off the damn video
games.
BRIAN
I hate those things. Mine are the
same way, all games all of the
time.
ANDY
(to Brian)
Funny, I had you figured you for a
World of Warcraft guy.
BRIAN
I like Halo, but it's not okay for
them. They need to be outside,
playing, growing stronger. I don't
want mine to be picked on, like I
was. Makes for a terrible
childhood.
ALLISON
Andy had ours wrestling before they
could walk. I'm afraid of the day I
get a call from the police.
ANDY
They know to stop when someone taps
out or starts crying.
CLAIRE
Taps out?
ANDY
You don't watch mixed martial arts?
Claire is repulsed.
CLAIRE
Absolutely not. I don't let Blaine
watch it either. It's barbaric.
ALLISON
I agree. I thought boxing was bad,
but that is worse. Guys bleeding
all over the place.
ANDY
Statistically it's safer than
boxing.
The doorbell rings. Allison gets up.
ALLISON
Statistically, not doing it at all
is safer.
Allison opens the door. It's RICHARD VERNON, slightly buzzed,
carrying a can of beer and dressed in an untucked golf shirt
and cut-off jean shorts.
ALLISON (CONT'D)
Hey Dick, come on in.
He walks through the door. He looks around and can't believe
his eyes.
ANDY
(to Vernon)
What'd you shoot?
Dick can't speak, just looks at each of their faces.
VERNON
Holy shit. I can't believe this.
Brian gets up to shake Vernon's hand.
BRIAN
Mr. Vernon, sir, nice to see you
again.
Vernon cuts him off. Brian sits back down.
VERNON
Bender? John Bender as I live and
breathe. And not in jail or on
America's Most Wanted.
Dick laughs at his joke. John gets up and walks over to him
extending a hand.
JOHN
Richard Vernon. I'd be lying if I
said I would have ever thought I'd
see you again.
They shake hands, warily, then return to their corners.
VERNON
Bender. I would have never thought
I would be telling people that you
were a student of mine, and
actually bragging about it.
JOHN
I don't know how to take that.
Brian gets up once again and walks over to Dick, extending
his hand.
BRIAN
Mr. Vernon, Brian Johnson.
Dick shakes his hand and looks at his face, not recognizing
him.
VERNON
Johnson...?
BRIAN
Brian.
VERNON
What were you?
BRIAN
Pardon?
VERNON
Jock? Burnout? Theatre? Band?
BRIAN
Nothing, just a student, I guess.
Vernon thinks more.
VERNON
Wait! I remember you! You brought a
flare gun to school, right?
Brian is embarrassed beyond belief. It still follows him.
BRIAN
Yes. That was me.
VERNON
(completely uninterested)
So. How've you been?
He drains his beer.
BRIAN
Well after graduation I went to..
Vernon interrupts him holding up his beer.
VERNON
Sorry, Johnston. Andy, got any more
beer?
Andy points toward the kitchen.
ANDY
You know where they are.
Vernon gets up and goes into the kitchen.
CLAIRE
(to Andy)
You are actually friends with
Vernon?
Andy is nonchalant about it.
ANDY
Well, yea. He's my kinda my boss.
ALLISON
They're golf buddies.
Claire is baffled.
CLAIRE
How is that possible?
Andy shrugs.
ANDY
After I started teaching here we
got to know each other better and
became friends. No big deal.
CLAIRE
But Vernon? A man we totally ripped
throughout high school?
ALLISON
He's not that bad. Really.
ANDY
Back then, he was doing his job.
Some of my students may think I'm a
dick sometimes too. I know my own
kids do.
They laugh.
BRIAN
But to hang out with the man when
you don't have to? That's over and
beyond what's expected in a
boss/employee relationship.
CLAIRE
You have definitely crossed into
the friend category.
Dick walks back into the room carrying beers.
VERNON
Andy, you're almost out of beer.
How did you let this happen?
Dick looks around.
VERNON (CONT'D)
Who needs one? Johnston?
BRIAN
Johnson. Sure.
Dick tosses him one. Brian drops it
VERNON
Sorry. Bender?
JOHN
Thanks, but I'm good.
VERNON
Come on, how many times do you get
to have a beer with your mentor?
John thinks "Mentor?"
JOHN
Thanks, but I don't drink.
Dick almost spits out his beer.
VERNON
You're shittin' me. You don't
drink.
JOHN
Nope. Not one bit.
BRIAN
And he goes to church.
Brian's comment is ignored.
VERNON
Probation or something?
JOHN
Something.
Vernon sits.
VERNON
I hear you are doing pretty good
for yourself these days. Custom
motorcycles, right?
JOHN
Yes, I have a small shop.
VERNON
That's great. Just great.
CLAIRE
He built one for Brad Pitt.
Dick digests this information.
VERNON
The movie guy. Married to the one
with all the kids. Right?
CLAIRE
Yep, same one.
Dick looks at Clair.
VERNON
(to Claire)
Are you his wife or something?
BRIAN
(to nobody)
Brad Pitts wife?
Claire is bummed out.
CLAIRE
No. You don't remember me?
VERNON
Can't say I do.
He looks closer at her, focusing on her hair.
VERNON (CONT'D)
Was your hair always that color?
Claire is very upset. Jenny walks into the room and walks up
to John. Dick notices her immediately.
JENNY
(to John)
Urgent. From Tommy.
She hands him the phone.
JOHN
Thanks honey.
John brings the phone to his ear.
JOHN (CONT'D)
(into phone)
Hello Tommy.
(pause)
Hello.
He looks up at Jenny.
JENNY
Text. It's a text message.
John is embarrassed.
JOHN
Thanks for telling me first before
I embarrassed myself.
He reads the phone and starts answering the text. Vernon
can't keep his eyes off of Jenny.
VERNON
Wow, the motorcycle business has
some sweet benefits.
(to Jenny)
Did you get to be on calendar
because you are his girlfriend or
are you his girlfriend because you
get to be on the calendar?
John looks up from his text.
JOHN
Dick. She's my daughter.
Dick takes a closer look at Jenny.
VERNON
Adopted?
JOHN
No, I'm pretty sure she's mine.
John smiles at Jenny. She smiles back.
JENNY
I'll leave the adults to reminisce
about past glories. Or not.
And she leaves the room. John gets up and walks to the front
door.
JOHN
Take too long to text, I'm going to
call him.
John walks out the door. Claire looks at Dick.
CLAIRE
So you really don't remember me?
Dick looks at her.
VERNON
Can't say I do.
Claire is frustrated.
CLAIRE
I was homecoming queen.
VERNON
(matter-of-factly)
I've seen 43 homecoming queens,
honey. And thankfully I've seen my
last.
BRIAN
You're retiring?
VERNON
Yep. Selling the house and moving
to a condo in Florida. Golfing
every morning, watching girls on
the beach every afternoon and then
a little fun with Dolores every
night.
BRIAN
Dolores is your wife?
Dick pulls out his wallet and hands Brian a picture.
ON PICTURE
It's a woman, 50ish, in a bikini on the beach.
ON BRIAN
BRIAN (CONT'D)
She's un.. very pretty.
Brian tries to hand it to Claire who refuses to take it from
him.
VERNON
You're damn right she is.
Dick drinks from his beer.
VERNON (CONT'D)
Homecoming queen too.
(to Claire)
Like you missy. 1978. Still looks
great too.
John comes back into the house and sits down.
CLAIRE
(motioning to Vernon)
John, Dick..
She pauses and looks at Vernon.
CLAIRE (CONT'D)
I'm sorry, is it okay to call you
Dick? You being so much older.
Vernon shrugs and finishes his beer.
VERNON
Sure, whatever suits you, missy.
We're both middle-age adults now.
Claire is a little stung by that remark.
CLAIRE
(to John)
Dick was just telling us about his
wife, Dolores who was homecoming..
Vernon interrupts her.
VERNON
Andy, is that time right?
Vernon points to the VCR. It reads 11:08.
ANDY
Yes, I think so.
VERNON
If I don't get home by 11:30, it's
no in-and-out for me, if you know
what I mean.
He laughs and does a screwing motion with his hands then gets
up.
VERNON (CONT'D)
Anyone else need a beer?
Nobody says a word, still sickened by the thought of Vernon
and his wife having sex. Vernon looks at all the faces then
walks into the kitchen.
CLAIRE
Oh my God. This is so... I can't
even describe how completely sick I
feel right now.
BRIAN
This must be what hell is like.
Without the fire.
They laugh as Vernon walks back into the room.
VERNON
So, Bender, I hear you're doing
pretty good.
JOHN
Pretty good.
VERNON
That's great, just great.
John smiles at him.
VERNON (CONT'D)
I'd like to think I had a little
something to do with your success.
All the little chats we had. The
positive influence I was on you.
John doesn't want to get into this so he's going to humor
Vernon a little.
JOHN
I'd have to say you did have an
impact on me. All those Saturdays
we spent together.
Vernon smiles, pleased to hear this from John.
VERNON
It pleases me greatly to hear that
I've had a part in straightening
out a young life.
Dick stands up and pulls his keys out of his pocket along
with a joint that falls on the carpet. Dick is unaware of
losing his dope.
VERNON (CONT'D)
Time for me to get home to Dolores
for a little fun.
He moves toward the door and opens it.
BRIAN
Dick, a quick question for you. We
were all discussing what happens
after we die and I was kind of
wondering your thoughts.
Dick frowns at him.
VERNON
Who cares? Why worry about
something that you can't do
anything about.
Dick points to Brian.
VERNON (CONT'D)
Think about that.
And he's out the door. They are all silent for a moment.
CLAIRE
Poor Dolores.
ANDY
She got a reprieve tonight.
Andy points to the clock.
ANDY (CONT'D)
That clock is twenty minutes slow.
They all laugh at the irony of this as Andy walks over to the
joint on the floor.
CLAIRE
What is that?
Andy sniffs the joint.
ANDY
Looks like Dick dropped his
doobage.
BRIAN
Vernon is a pothead?
They are all in disbelief. Andy smiles.
ANDY
For old times sake?
CUT TO:
EXT ANDYS BACKYARD - NIGHT
Andy, Allison, John, Brian and Claire are all climbing up
steps to a treehouse.
BRIAN
This is awesome. Wish I had one
when I was a kid.
ALLISON
Andy built it for the kids, but
he's out here every Sunday watching
the football games.
JOHN
You put electricity out here?
ANDY
Cable too.
CUT TO:
INT TREEHOUSE - MOMENTS LATER
It's awesome inside; seats with cushions, carpeting, LCD TV,
electricity.
JOHN
How come my dad never built me
something like this? Oh yea, he was
a drunk and hated me.
CLAIRE
He did not.
JOHN
Yes, he did.
Andy pulls out the joint.
ANDY
Here we go.
They all look at each other. Andy lights it up, takes a big
toke then passes it to Claire.
CLAIRE
I'm haven't smoked this stuff since
college.
She takes a hit and coughs. She passes it to John.
JOHN
I can't. Drug tests.
BRIAN
You own the company.
John smiles and takes a hit then passes it to Brian.
BRIAN (CONT'D)
Becky would kill me if she knew I
was going to do this.
He takes a hit and relaxes a bit then passes it to Allison
who takes a hit.
ALLISON
My first time since college too.
She passes it to Claire who takes a hit.
CLAIRE
What the hell, it can't hurt,
right?
She passes it to Brian. He takes a hit.
BRIAN
I never smoked in college. I was
too busy studying. That was a
mistake. I should have had a little
fun instead.
CUT TO:
INT TREEHOUSE - LATER
Everyone is laid back, relaxing, enjoying their buzz. Claire
is quiet. Everyone looks at her.
ALLISON
(to Claire)
You okay?
Claire wakes up from her minor trance.
CLAIRE
Yes, I'm okay. Wow, this really pot
really got me.
JOHN
Wow, half a joint got us all
wasted. It's a little more powerful
these days.
There is a noise outside. They all stop to listen.
ANDY
Shit. I think its the kids looking
for us.
They all listen again. Nothing. Then they hear it.
BECKY (O.S.)
Brian!
They all look at Brian.
BRIAN
(whispering)
Shit. I forgot about her coming to
get me.
JOHN
Invite her up here.
BRIAN
(whispering)
SSShhhhh! I don't want her to catch
me up here.
They all listen again. She appears to have left the backyard.
ANDY
You still get into trouble?
BRIAN
Not trouble. I'm a man, I can do
what I want. I just prefer to avoid
confrontation in instances such as
these.
ALLISON
She wouldn't approve of you smoking
dope?
BRIAN
Absolutely not. She's in the PTO at
school.
They all laugh. Andy has an idea.
ANDY
Let's go.
CUT TO:
EXT ANDYS BACKYARD - MOMENTS LATER
They are all quietly climbing down, listening for Becky.
After they all get down Andy rounds them up.
ANDY
We can slip through the neighbors
backyard and say we went for a
walk.
They follow Andy through the yard.
CLAIRE
I can't believe I'm wasted and
doing this.
ALLISON
This would be fun, but I just
stepped in dog shit.
They all muffle laughs.
BECKY (O.S.)
(yelling)
Brian!
They all take off following Andy over the fence.
CUT TO:
EXT NEIGHBORS YARD
Andy leads them through the yard. A dog barks from inside the
house. A man peeks outside.
ANDY
Just me, Roger.
The neighbor looks at them all.
ROGER
Okay Andy. Have a good night.
They all look at each other.
BRIAN
How often does this happen?
CUT TO:
EXT NEIGHBORS YARD - MOMENTS LATER
They quietly walk toward the front where they are surprised
by Becky.
BECKY
What are all of you doing out here?
They are all quiet.
ALLISON
Looking for our cat?
They all agree. Becky looks at them oddly and sniffs a
little.
BECKY
Hmmmmm..By the bloodshot eyes and
that distinctive odor, I'd say you
were all out here smoking a little
pot.
Brian comes forward and attempts to explain before she stops
him.
BRIAN
Becky..
BECKY
Save it, Brian.
To the rest of the group.
BECKY (CONT'D)
Got any more?
Brian is shocked.
CUT TO:
INT TREEHOUSE - LATER
All of them are up in the treehouse now. Becky, now high,
takes a huge hit from what's left of the joint and continues
her conversation, smoke coming from her mouth and nose as she
talks.
BECKY
..and so the cop comes into the bar
and says "You have to wear a shirt
and get off the bar or I'll take
you to jail."
Everyone laughs with the exception of Brian who isn't sure
what's happening. Becky notices Brian's discomfort.
BECKY (CONT'D)
Come on honey, take another hit and
have some fun.
Brian hesitantly takes it from her.
BECKY (CONT'D)
We never do this at home. Brian we
should get some of this and smoke
some when the kids are in bed, then
who knows what.
Becky winks at an embarrassed Brian then finishes the rest of
the joint. Allison has seen and heard enough and has to get
out of there.
ALLISON
I need to go check on the kids.
CLAIRE
(quickly)
I'll come with you.
ANDY
We can all go.
CUT TO:
EXT ANDYS BACKYARD - MOMENTS LATER
They are walking toward the house.
CLAIRE
Do we smell like pot?
Allison sniffs her.
ALLISON
No. I don't think so.
ANDY
But if we all smell like it, can we
tell we smell like it?
BRIAN
Huh? I think you're stoned.
JOHN
How am I going to explain this to
Jenny?
CLAIRE
Why are you going to say anything
at all?
JOHN
Because I like to be honest...
As they walk by a window John sees Blaine and Jenny kissing
on the couch.
JOHN (CONT'D)
Oh shit.
John knocks on the window, frightening Blaine and Jenny.
JOHN (CONT'D)
Stop that!
The kids break apart. John runs through the door while the
others laugh at the situation.
CUT TO:
INT FAMILY ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
John bursts into the room.
JOHN
Jenny, what are you doing? You
don't even know him!
Jenny stands up.
JENNY
Calm down, dad, it was just
kissing.
JOHN
But you just met him!
The rest of the group walks into the room.
JOHN (CONT'D)
I thought you knew better.
JENNY
Dad...
Claire comes to John.
CLAIRE
It was only kissing, John.
John turns to Claire.
JOHN
Claire, she's better than this. She
was brought up knowing that this is
not acceptable behavior.
Claire is clearly upset by John's actions and words.
CLAIRE
John, may I please see you for a
moment.
(pause)
Outside.
John looks at Jenny then Claire. He starts walking toward the
door.
CUT TO:
EXT ANDYS BACKYARD - MOMENTS LATER
John walks into the backyard followed by Claire.
CLAIRE
What was that all about?
JOHN
Sorry you had to see that.
CLAIRE
I think you were over-reacting a
bit.
JOHN
About what? About my daughter
making a fool of herself and me?
CLAIRE
It was only kissing and she wasn't
making a fool of anyone.
JOHN
She was raised a certain way. I
expect more from her.
Claire moves closer and touches John softly on the shoulder.
CLAIRE
Remember what we were like at their
age?
JOHN
Too well. Remember the story I told
you earlier, that's not happening
to my daughter. She's too smart to
fall for some guy.
Claire is offended.
CLAIRE
Some "guy" is my son and he's a
good kid despite what you think
about him or his upbringing.
JOHN
I didn't mean it like that. He's a
young guy and they are all like
that.
CLAIRE
Like what?
JOHN
Well...they want sex, they use
innocent young girls. They cheat
and lie.
CLAIRE
They aren't all like you were.
Johns turn to be offended.
JOHN
You didn't seem to mind my
reputation back than.
CLAIRE
No, but I got to know the real you,
the John was sweet and kind and
loving.
Andy comes out in the backyard.
ANDY
(to John)
Brian and I are going to the store,
come on with us.
John looks at Claire.
JOHN
(to Andy)
Yeah.
John walks off join Andy.
CUT TO:
INT KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Claire walks into the kitchen where Allison is pouring a
glass of wine.
ALLISON
You want another?
CLAIRE
Yes, please.
Allison takes another glass down and pours a glass for
Claire. She hands it to Claire.
CLAIRE (CONT'D)
Thanks.
They sit at the table.
ALLISON
This is nice, we never get to see
each other anymore. Always so busy.
Claire smiles.
CLAIRE
Where's Becky?
ALLISON
Passed out on the couch. She looks
really happy.
They laugh, then Claire gets quiet.
CLAIRE
I've been meaning to ask you,
what's up with the ring or lack of
it?
Allison looks at her hand.
ALLISON
You noticed.
CLAIRE
Are you two okay?
Allison tears up a little.
ALLISON
Not really. Not at all.
INT JOHN'S TRUCK - SAME TIME
The guys are in the truck. Brian is looking at everything on
the truck.
BRIAN
This thing has a backup camera?
JOHN
I think so.
BRIAN
You don't know?
JOHN
Not really. I saw it on the lot and
liked the color, that's why I got
it.
Brian keeps looking around.
BRIAN
This truck has everything. I want
one.
JOHN
So get one.
BRIAN
Not a chance. I can barely pay for
the minivan we have now. Besides,
I'm saving for college. Going to
cost me a couple hundred thousand
by the time they get there.
ANDY
And Allison wonders why I want the
boys to wrestle. Scholarships,
baby.
JOHN
How are you and Allison?
ANDY
Don't ask.
JOHN
Okay....
ANDY
Terrible. We can't talk and when we
do it's only about the kids.
Anything else is just bitching at
each other.
BRIAN
What are you going to do?
ANDY
We are separated. Still living
together, just not "living
together," you know.
They are all quiet.
JOHN
Any hope?
ANDY
I don't know. Hope so, not sure
what I'd do without her.
BRIAN
That's a nice thing to say.
Andy thinks.
ANDY
It's hard.
(pause)
I ruined two shirts trying to iron
them.
They are quiet.
ANDY (CONT'D)
I never thought we'd get to this
point. I thought we were at least
happy enough to stay married. For
the kids.
BRIAN
People change.
JOHN
How does the separation-but-living
together work?
ANDY
Kind of the same. No sex. No
communication, but I do my own
laundry now.
BRIAN
Who did it?
ANDY
Did what?
BRIAN
Got the lawyer.
ANDY
She did. Total shocked me.
JOHN
They just showed up?
ANDY
Yep. Some smiling young woman
showed up at the door and handed me
a packet of papers. I just sat and
read them and cried. It still
hurts.
BRIAN
Have you talked?
ANDY
Quite a bit, but nothing. We get
along and still there's no changing
her mind.
CUT TO:
INT KITCHEN - NIGHT
Claire and Allison sit at the table.
CLAIRE
Are you going to go through with
it? Is it really over? Throwing
away all that time, everything
you've built?
Allison sighs.
ALLISON
I don't think of it as throwing all
that time away, that would mean
throwing away the boys.
CLAIRE
You know what I mean, starting over
now.
ALLISON
If I don't now, when will I? I
don't want to be 60 years old and
be alone.
CLAIRE
You won't be alone, you'll have
Andy.
ALLISON
Same thing.
They sit quietly.
ALLISON (CONT'D)
So how's that thing working out
with that guy? Terry? You haven't
told me much.
Claire is quiet. Then confesses.
CLAIRE
Terri and I are over. And Teri
was... is a woman.
Allison can only sit and stare with her mouth wide open.
CLAIRE (CONT'D)
It's okay. You can ask.
ALLISON
When? How long? Why?
Claire smiles.
CLAIRE
When did we break up?
ALLISON
No, when did you decide to try? You
know...
CLAIRE
Just one of those things. I was
having a rough time. We met at a
seminar and had a little too much
wine and... well things happened.
ALLISON
A drunken fling is one thing, a
full-fledge relationship is
another.
CLAIRE
We had a lot of things in common,
besides our work. It was nice to
wake up with someone soft and
pretty, then getting to go shopping
together. And we were the same size
so my wardrobe doubled.
They both laugh. Just then little boy's voice calls from his
bedroom.
BOY (O.S.)
Mommy!
ALLISON
My call.
Allison gets up and leaves as Jenny enters the kitchen.
CLAIRE
Hey Jen.
Jenny sits down.
CLAIRE (CONT'D)
How are you doing?
JENNY
I'm good.
CLAIRE
You and Blaine getting along?
Jenny is embarrassed, which quickly leads to Claire be
embarrassed.
CLAIRE (CONT'D)
I'm sorry. I didn't mean it that
way. He's a nice boy.
Jenny looks at her in an odd way.
JENNY
Yes. He seems nice. Tired too
apparently. He fell asleep watching
the movie.
CLAIRE
He's had a long day.
JENNY
Okay, I won't take it personally
then.
They smile.
CLAIRE
How is your dad doing?
JENNY
He's pretty good. Keeping busy with
the shop.
CLAIRE
I mean about the thing with your
mom.
Jenny turns somber.
CLAIRE (CONT'D)
I'm sorry. We don't need to talk
about this.
JENNY
It's okay, I don't talk about it
much anymore. Do you want to talk
about it?
CLAIRE
I don't know. After the funeral
tonight I just feel... I don't
know...
JENNY
Bad?
CLAIRE
No.... I mean I feel bad, but more
curious. About your dad. You. Your
mom.
JENNY
Did you ever meet her?
CLAIRE
No. I didn't get a chance.
Allison walks back in the kitchen.
ALLISON
Am I interrupting?
Claire defers to Jenny.
CLAIRE
Jenny?
JENNY
No, I don't mind. We were just
talking about my mom. She was
great. For dad. To me. She'd take
him dinner out to the shop when he
was working late and sit there and
talk with him while he was making a
bike.
She drifts away in her past.
JENNY (CONT'D)
I don't think he liked being
interrupted when he was creating,
but he loved hearing her voice. It
calmed him. He always says her
voice was the wall that separated
the demons he was running from.
ALLISON
She sounds wonderful.
JENNY
She was. I was so worried that he'd
start drinking again after, but he
didn't.
CLAIRE
That's good.
JENNY
I ask him about it one time. He
said that going back to that type
of life would dishonor her memory.
Jenny tears up.
JENNY (CONT'D)
Watching her slowly die, I think he
gained her strength, her will. He'd
hold her hand until she was able to
sleep, then sleep in the chair next
to her.
They all sit teary-eyed for a moment before Blaine walks into
the kitchen. He looks at the somber faces then directly at
Claire.
BLAINE
(to Claire)
What did you do now?
Claire looks at Allison and Jenny.
CLAIRE
Just some girl-talk.
CUT TO:
INT JOHN'S TRUCK - SAME TIME
The guys are in the truck on their way home.
BRIAN
Where are you going to live after?
ANDY
I really have no idea. The idea of
a forty-something man in a little
apartment is too sad to imagine,
but I think that's what I'm going
to have to do.
JOHN
That sucks, but there's good points
too.
BRIAN
Women.
ANDY
Yea, I'm a real catch. I might just
go back and live with my mom. Since
dad died she's been lonely.
BRIAN
I would rather be homeless than go
back and live with my mom.
ANDY
Mine isn't bad. Nearly deaf so she
won't hear if I bring a woman home
for the night.
The guys laugh.
BRIAN
Have you?
ANDY
Have I what?
BRIAN
Been with another woman besides
Allison?
ANDY
No way. All sorts of diseases and
stuff out there. I don't want it
falling off, you know?
CUT TO:
EXT ANDY AND ALLISON'S HOUSE
Johns truck pulls into the driveway.
CUT TO:
INT KITCHEN - NIGHT
Claire, Jenny and Allison are sitting at the table when the
guys walk in the house. Andy takes a beer out.
ANDY
Who needs one?
Allison raises her hand.
ALLISON
Me.
CLAIRE
Here too.
Jenny raises her hand wanting a beer.
JOHN
(to Jenny)
Not you. You no better. Go.
She gets up, but not without protest. The guys sit down at
the table.
JENNY
Do I have to?
JOHN
Yes.
She walks out of the kitchen.
BRIAN
How's Becky doing?
ALLISON
She hasn't moved at all to my
knowledge.
Brian is concerned.
BRIAN
Is she breathing?
CLAIRE
Sorry, we didn't check.
Brian walks out toward the living room.
ANDY
This has been a a nice night. We
don't have these much.
He gets a look from Allison.
ANDY (CONT'D)
I didn't mean anything about you,
it was more about forgetting about
the kids for a while, you know
getting older, the responsibility
of adulthood.
JOHN
That's true for me too. I spend so
much time making sure my employees
are happy and productive, I don't
do enough for myself. Even the
employees I don't like.
Brian walks back into the kitchen.
ALLISON
(to Brian)
She okay?
Brian smiles.
BRIAN
She's alive and not bitching so I'd
say she's fine.
(to John)
Who don't you like?
JOHN
Some of my employees.
ANDY
So why don't you get rid of them?
JOHN
I guess I feel responsible for
them.
ANDY
I feel responsible for my students
even the ones I don't like.
CLAIRE
Why don't you like them?
ANDY
Attitudes mainly. They don't care
about learning, they are there
because they have to be.
John smiles.
JOHN
Sounds familiar.
ALLISON
Yea John, you were probably voted
most hated in the teachers lounge.
ANDY
We don't really vote, it's just
informal surveys.
They all laugh.
BRIAN
Do you wish you could go back and
do it all over again? I mean change
things?
CLAIRE
God yes. I'd change everything
about me. About my life.
JOHN
Is it that bad?
Claire thinks.
CLAIRE
Yeah, sometimes it is. Isn't there
anything you'd change John?
JOHN
If I had a chance, I would have
reconciled with my father before he
died. I didn't even go to his
funeral and I regret it every day.
ALLISON
Why didn't you go?
JOHN
I hated him. Hated the fact that he
abused me. After I grew up, I
realized that his father abused
him, he was an alcoholic and didn't
know any better. He battled his
disease and his demons.
Deep down I imagine we loved each
other, just could never show or say
it.
This quiets them.
ALLISON
Brian, what is it that you do?
BRIAN
I'm an industrial mathematician.
Anyone want to hear about it?
ANDY
Is it interesting?
BRIAN
Not really.
CLAIRE
Why did you choose that as your
profession?
BRIAN
I had an aptitude for math. A
professor knew I liked working by
myself and though it would be a
career I liked.
ANDY
Do you?
BRIAN
I did. I lost my job this past July
so now I do a little consulting
work. Doesn't pay the bills though.
CLAIRE
That's terrible. You work hard for
all those years and the next day
you're gone. Happened to me too.
JOHN
What?
CLAIRE
I was downsized. The company I
worked for shut a bunch of stores
and they didn't need me. The job
market for woman's clothing buyers
is very limited.
BRIAN
What do you do now?
CLAIRE
Real estate. I don't mind. I work
my own hours, but I miss the steady
paycheck.
ALLISON
If you ask me what Claire's perfect
job would be, I would have said a
shopper. And me, my ovaries chose
my career.
They all laugh.
ALLISON (CONT'D)
Just like Andy having his perfect
job.
Andy shrugs.
ANDY
What can I say? I like high school,
wrestling and summer vacation.
They laugh.
ANDY (CONT'D)
John, what got you into
motorcycles?
JOHN
Just luck. Some guy saw my own
custom bike at a gas station and
offered me a job. It wasn't a job,
it was something more. Salvation. I
found what I was meant to do.
They all laugh.
ANDY
I wouldn't change anything about my
life or the way things have gone so
far.
Allison is skeptical.
ALLISON
Nothing? Even with all the shit we
are going through? You'd still want
us to be together?
She looks around.
ALLISON (CONT'D)
All of you know we are getting a
divorce, right?
They all nod.
ANDY
I still wouldn't change a thing.
Those boys sleeping in are there
are what makes everything in life
worth living.
BRIAN
But if you didn't have them, you
wouldn't miss them.
ANDY
But I..
He glances at Allison.
ANDY (CONT'D)
...we do have them.
ALLISON
Only for a short time then they are
off to college, then on to their
own lives. And what are we left
with?
CLAIRE
An empty room full of memories. I
miss those times. I miss being
mommy, taking care of Blaine.
JOHN
I'm going to miss Jen when she goes
off to school.
BRIAN
Where's she going?
JOHN
Stanford. Computer science.
ALLISON
That's great. I thought she looked
more the liberal arts type.
JOHN
I wanted her to go to UCLA and
live at home. Stay with the family
business, but she wants to do
things on her own.
She's always been pretty
independent. She'd get up early and
try to make her own breakfast.
ANDY
Have to admire that.
JOHN
She got stronger after her mom
died. We both did. We had to just
to survive. If my dad hadn't been
an asshole, who knows how I have
turned out.
BRIAN
Why talk about what may have been?
You can't change it now. The future
is the only we have, just make the
best of it.
CLAIRE
Easy for you to say, Brian. You
have a job you like and a wife that
loves you. Kids that I assume love
you.
BRIAN
They love me when they get their
way, the things they want.
ANDY
I know the feeling.
BRIAN
I'm just being realistic. I didn't
like high school. Didn't really
like college until I learned that
smart people actually got a little
respect.
ANDY
Funny how all that changes from
high school. In high school and
college, I had people like me
because I was on the wrestling
team, then after I broke my arm,
these "friends" stopped calling.
CLAIRE
That's terrible.
ANDY
They figured I was jinxed and they
didn't want the same to happen to
them.
They are all quiet.
JOHN
Is this it? Is this what we waited
for while we were growing up?
BRIAN
We were in such a hurry and now we
just want to be back there. No
wonder my parents were miserable. I
resented my parents for pushing me
so hard. They were so proud when I
graduated. Now I'm the "unemployed
one."
JOHN
Come work for me.
Brian is taken aback.
BRIAN
No thanks. The commute would be a
bitch for me.
JOHN
I'm serious. What's keeping you
from sunny California?
BRIAN
No offense John, but I didn't spend
6 years in college to work for a
high school dropout in a garage.
John is surprised.
JOHN
Wow, no offense taken, Brian but
it's not hard to take offense to
that statement.
BRIAN
I'm sorry, but it's not my cup of
tea. I can't weld, I have no
artistic capabilities and I don't
know anything about engines.
CLAIRE
He's trying to help Brian.
BRIAN
(to Claire)
I don't need his help.
Brian pauses, then laughs.
BRIAN (CONT'D)
I sounded just like my dad. Never
ask for anything. Never complained.
Killed him too. Stomach pain that
he never said anything about was
pancreatic cancer. He lasted six
months.
Brian hangs his head and sheds a tear.
ALLISON
Oh Brian.
CLAIRE
Are we like them? I never thought I
would but I hear myself saying the
things I heard when I was a kid.
ANDY
My parent are still together. Fifty
fours.
CLAIRE
Are they happy?
ANDY
I don't know. I never ask. They are
the same as they always were. I
don't think they ever worried about
being happy. I think they were
worried about just being.
JOHN
My dad just worried a more vodka
and getting arrested. I never
burned Jenny with a cigar, but I
wasn't drinking either.
BRIAN
I always thought you lied about
that.
JOHN
No. Not a word. I use to tell
people the things he did to me
because I wanted them to think I
was tough, a badass.
Now I know the reason I told people
was that I wanted help. I wanted
someone to care.
CLAIRE
We cared.
JOHN
Not like a kid needs to be cared
for.
They are all quiet.
ANDY
I feel unappreciated.
They all look at him.
ALLISON
By who?
ANDY
Everyone to some extent. You. The
kids. My students. The
administration.
CLAIRE
Who doesn't? The people I sell
houses to don't care how much time
and effort I put into finding them
the perfect home, or what I think
is perfect for them.
JOHN
But they pay you. Do they have to
show gratitude?
CLAIRE
It would be nice.
JOHN
I guess I'm lucky. I feel
appreciated.
ALLISON
You are lucky. You're an artist
that is appreciated in your
lifetime.
JOHN
I don't like that word.
BRIAN
Appreciated?
JOHN
No artist. I just make motorcycles.
That's it.
ALLISON
But people love them. They wait
years for them, spend their hard
earned money for something that
they probably won't ride more than
a few hours.
ANDY
(to Allison)
You have your poetry. You have a
degree in it.
Allison snorts.
ALLISON
For what that's worth. A handful of
students in community college on
Tuesday afternoons.
ANDY
They enjoy being there.
ALLISON
Most don't. They are counting the
minutes until class is over so they
can drink or whatever.
CLAIRE
I've read some online. It's very
good.
ALLISON
So you're the one that goes on my
website to check it out. I wondered
who that was.
ANDY
So is this what it's all about? You
are frustrated about your life so
getting rid of me is the way to
make it better?
ALLISON
Sometimes you don't listen to me
and sometimes you want to. I'm
divorcing you because I need to
live. I need to feel useful. I'm
just the kids mom or the coaches
wife. I have no identity.
JOHN
I feel unappreciated too, believe
it or not. I think that its part of
adulthood.
BRIAN
Being an adult, a parent sure isn't
all that great. I thought it would
be fun. Do anything I wanted, go
where I wanted, but it's not like
that.
CLAIRE
They never tell you about the other
things.
CUT TO:
A familiar song begins...
The Simple Minds "Don't You (Forget About Me)"
INT KITCHEN - MORNING
Andy and Allison are at the table.
ANDY (V.O.)
Dear kids. As your parents we are
required to perform certain
duties..
CUT TO:
INT JOHN'S TRUCK - MORNING
John is driving while Jenny sleeps against the door.
JOHN (V.O.)
...such as feeding you....
CUT TO:
INT BRIAN'S CAR - MORNING
Brian is driving while Becky sleeps against the door.
BRIAN (V.O.)
...sheltering you.....
CUT TO:
INT KITCHEN - MORNING
Andy and Allison are at the table.
ALLISON (V.O.)
...teaching you..
CUT TO:
INT CLAIRES CAR - MORNING
Claire is driving while Blaine is asleep.
CLAIRE (V.O.)
...and keeping you safe from any
harm.
CUT TO:
INT BRIAN'S CAR - MORNING
Brian is driving while Becky sleeps against the door.
BRIAN (V.O.)
We do each of these things out of
love, without reservation.
CUT TO:
INT CLAIRES CAR - MORNING
Claire is driving while Blaine is asleep.
CLAIRE (V.O.)
But in time you will realize that
we are people too. People with
hopes...
CUT TO:
INT ANDYS HOUSE - MORNING
Andy is looking in on the boys.
ANDY (V.O.)
...and fears...
CUT TO:
INT KITCHEN - MORNING
Allison is putting away dishes.
ALLISON (V.O.)
...and dreams for the future.
CUT TO:
INT JOHN'S TRUCK - MORNING
John is driving while Jenny sleeps against the door.
JOHN (V.O.)
And we make mistakes, but we won't
tell you about them.
CUT TO:
INT BRIAN'S CAR - MORNING
Brian is driving while Becky sleeps against the door.
BRIAN (V.O.)
We love you and only want to see
you succeed in life.
CUT TO:
INT CLAIRES CAR - MORNING
Claire is driving while Blaine is asleep.
CLAIRE (V.O.)
And to live every dream you have.
CUT TO:
MONTAGE OF ALL OF THEM
ALL OF THEM
Love, your parents.
THE END
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