Revelations Script Flipbook PDF

Revelations is a family movie, appropriate for both kids and adults. It takes place in any small town in the U.S. It’s a

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REVELATIONS

Written by: Emilio Roso

Knesset Pictures #679302

2.

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EXT. NEW MEXICO - DAY

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See shot of skyline of New Mexico, see beauty of the roads of New Mexico. See shots of town called New Galilee. Exteriors of city, to establish city. Exterior of Church. Father John starts his speech. Camera pans down from sky to establish man walking along an empty road. 2

INT. CHURCH - DAY

2 FATHER JOHN

There are clear Bible signs that God has given to the generation that will be called the terminal generation… that is our generation. The first sign is the increase of knowledge. Daniel 12 and 4 of the Bible says Daniel shuts up the words and sealed the book even ‘til the time of the end. Do you hear those words? Even ‘til the time of the end, when many will run to and from and knowledge shall be greatly increased. That last line literally translates knowledge explosion. Our generation is the only generation that has had a knowledge explosion… but all of this knowledge has not improved our society. All of you humanists who have been teaching for 40 years that if you educate man he'll produce paradise. Well, let me tell you something, we're the most educated nation on Earth and we're far from living in paradise. We can fly from Paris to New York in three hours. We can send all sorts of information by one button through the internet. You can sit at home and shop for anything you want from cars to hats to shoes to jewelry to dinner right in your own home, just by pressing one button on the computer. Our whole society doesn’t want to leave home because of that box. We invent a special bomb called the atomic bomb which can destroy a whole city. (MORE)

3. FATHER JOHN (CONT'D)

But I want to tell you something, knowledge without God only produces an intellectual barbarian. We are that generation that the bible is saying is ever learning, but never coming to the knowledge of the truth; we in the United States murder our children under the banner of pro choice. Our schools have become blackboard jungles with the dead and the dying lying on the playground shot by fellow students who never had the privilege of reading the Ten Commandments that were taken from the walls by the Supreme Court... the ones that said thou shall not kill. Another prophetic sign is the rebirth of Israel. On May the 15th 1948 Israel was re-born. Isaiah 66 and 8 says a nation will be born in a day and Israel is that nation. The disciples asked Jesus in Matthew 24 and 32, when are you coming back and what is the sign that you're about to come back? And Jesus said now learn a parable about the fig tree Israel. When you see the branch begin to bloom again, that means the tree is coming back to life again. You will know that my coming is soon. We are the terminal generation that's going to see the coming of Jesus Christ. Jesus is coming and he's coming soon, but will we recognize him when he comes? 3

INT. CHURCH - DAY The church is full of people listening to the sermon. The Father finishes, and dismisses the congregation. He spots JAMES CLEVELAND, late 30's, at the back of the church. He grabs his wife, JENNY CLEVELAND. They’re standing with her two children Sarah, (8) and Michael, (6). James and Jenny are arguing. James, irritated, grabs her by force. Father John, makes his way to the back of the church.

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FATHER JOHN God bless you! How you doing James? I haven't seen you here for a while. Son you need to come more often and pray. James doesn't answer. FATHER JOHN (CONT’D) Hi, Jenny how are? JENNY Yes, Father I’m fine. FATHER JOHN Are you sure? JAMES She said she’s OK. Let’s go... sorry father we have to leave, we have to be somewhere... Let’s go. DORIS MILLER, (60’S), she appears fragile. Sitting next to her is her son THEODORE, (40’S), who is developmentally delayed. Theodore runs after two kids, Jack and Jeff who are making fun of him. DORIS Father, Father, how are you? Great Sermon today! FATHER JOHN Thank you Doris, I spoke to my friend David, he’s says Theodore can come back to the Day Program. It’s good for him. DORIS They lost him, so I have to think about it. Theodore gets up, and runs down the center aisle. DORIS (CONT’D) Be careful not to fall...Boys, boys come on leave him alone. Teddy, get back over here. I’m sorry father. He just does this. TEDDY I’m playing, mom.

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DORIS Theodore Miller, you get over here right now young man... FATHER JOHN It’s fine, let him be. granddaughter?

How’s your

DORIS I don’t know she comes and goes whenever she wants to. She lives in her own world, teenagers. FATHER JOHN She’ll change...she’ll change. She’s a good girl, don’t loose faith in her. Albert and Ruth come up to Sister Mary. a walker.

Ruth is walking with

RUTH Hello Sister. SISTER MARY Hello Ruth. You look lovely today. RUTH Still not great enough to walk without this thing. It was a great mass today, I really enjoyed it. SISTER MARY Well thank you! Oh Albert, do you mind if we can borrow a few tools? We need to repair some woodwork. Our tools are not much more that a few screwdrivers.... ALBERT Sure I’ll do it myself if you want. SISTER MARY You know father insists on doing the work, but I’ll tell him. Good day. The parishioners all leave, including Doris and Teddy. She holds his hand as though he was a small child and leads him out of church. Father John approaches Sister Mary, who is putting Hymnals back in their proper place.

6.

FATHER JOHN I think it's a good time to start pulling out the Christmas decorations, take inventory, and see what we need. SISTER MARY I think it's too early father, maybe we should wait another week. Father John is quiet, clutches his chest. SISTER MARY (CONT’D) What do you think Father… Father? Father? Sister Mary screams for help. SISTER MARY (CONT’D) Josephina, Josephina! Bring me his pills, call 911! Father John falls.

She cradles his head in her lap.

SISTER MARY (CONT’D) Just hold on father… Josephina runs in calling 911 on her phone, pills in hand. SISTER JOSEPHINA Hello, I need an ambulance... CUT TO: 4

EXT. NEW MEXICO - DESSERT DAY

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Scenes of a man, FATHER YAHUDA walking against the backdrop of the beauty of New Mexico, the land. As the camera pushes in, we see empty desert, then see a man wearing a black suit walking... a car passing and stop. The driver, Earl Emmert, (30’s), rolls down his window. EARL Where you headed Father? FATHER YAHUDA To the next town. EARL The next town is about 20 miles from here. Where are you coming from?

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FATHER YAHUDA I came from the East. EARL From where? Earl looks at him silent for a moment. EARL (CONT’D) I'm sorry, I'm not going that way. FATHER YAHUDA God bless you, son. Car takes off. Priest keeps walking. See different background scenes different angles of him walking the earth in New Mexico. 5

EXT. APARTMENT COMPLEX - DUSK

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See Albert walk out of apartment with his toolbox and gets in his car and starts driving. 6

INT. DORIS MILLER’S HOME/LIVING ROOM - DUSK

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Cut to Doris reaching for a bottle of pills. It’s hard for her to move. She gets up, she hears music. She grabs her cane and walks towards the noise. She gets outside and sees her grand daughter Abigail, 18, smoking and drinking on the front porch having a conversation with BILLY, JEFF, AND JASMINE. 7

EXT. DORRIS MILLER’S HOME/FRONT PORCH - DUSK ABIGAIL I'm saving my money and I'm out of here, going New York. I'm want to be a dancer. I’m only going to wear fancy clothes, and have diamonds from my boots to my hair. BILLY You'll never get out of here... you can barely save 10 dollars without spending it on cigarettes, and you don't even know how to dance. ABIGAIL I know how to dance. She spins around and falls down.

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BILLY The only thing you can do is be a stupid comedian, that's your talent right there. JEFF Yeah, there’s a great club in New York with the worst jokes ever. ABIGAIL Oh yeah, and what are you going to do? Stay here, feed the pigs, work on the ranch? Let me guess... Jeff will hold the cow and Billy will milk it and you’ll create a line of cheese called Cheesy Land. JEFF Ha, ha, ha! That’s not funny. I tell you what if you’re planning to start a career in stand up comedy, make sure you always have a day job. ABIGAIL Hey, I was talking to Kevin today and he really likes you. He keeps asking me if you are coming to the party. JASMINE He is fine. I like him. ABIGAIL Then why don’t youJASMINE Because he likes you, that simple. JEFF Somebody likes Abbie...that’s a miracle. BILLY I like Abbie. He goes to grab her, when Teddy comes out from the door. TEDDY Abigial...Abigial. ABIGIAL Go inside, Teddy. Go.

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TEDDY Come on. JEFF Teddy can dance... BILLY Dance Teddy. Teddy starts to dance, laughing. ABIGIAL Stop it! Teddy is laughing. The boys are laughing at him. getting embarrassed and angry.

Abigial is

ABIGIAL (CONT’D) I said stop it! NOW. Teddy go inside. JEFF Dance, Teddy. Dance... Abigail grabs Teddy’s arm, and his demeanor changes form happy to angry. TEDDY Stop, Stop get off me, stop leave me alone, leave me alone. Abigail doesn’t let go. Teddy struggles then pushes her away. She quickly slaps him in the face. He grabs his cheek and starts to cry loudly like a small child. He runs towards the front door. TEDDY (CONT’D) Mama, she hit me! Mama help, she hit me. The guys all laugh, Abbie and Jasmine are not amused. Abbie’s grandmother, Doris, swings open the front door. is walking slowly, but very angry. DORIS ABIGAIL! Abigail! Did you hit him? Did you? Billy mocks grandmother making fun of the way she walks. ABIGIAL He started it.

She

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DORIS All of you leave. Right now. What are you doing on my porch smoking? Abigial, I need your help. She grabs a cigarette out of Jeff’s mouth, and throws it towards the street. ABIGIAL Grandma, stop that. We see how Billy is mocking and making fun of Teddy. BILLY Abigail! You got to make dinner for me… DORIS I have asked you all to leave my home nicely, now leave. They move of the porch and stand in the yard. DORIS (CONT’D) Abbie, where are the groceries? Did you go to the market? Why didn't you go to the market? Teddy comes back outside. TEDDY She hit me mama...she hit me. DORIS Its okay Teddy. Its okay Teddy. TEDDY Bad Abbie, bad girl. DORIS I needed those groceries to make dinner. Now what are we supposed to eat? ABIGAIL I don't want to eat. DORIS Well, Teddy and I do. TEDDY I want to eat, I want to eat.

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DORIS It’s okay teddy I will make you something. Its okay, you will eat. Albert Jones, (70’s), African American man is passing in his car. He waves at Doris and Teddy. He pulls over and yells from his window. ALBERT Hello Mrs. Miller.

Hi Teddy.

TEDDY Albert, Albert! Mama, mama look, Albert. ALBERT Hi Teddy.. TEDDY I’m going to eat, Albert. I’m going to eat. Right mama? DORIS Yes, Teddy, you are going to eat. Albert, how's your wife? ALBERT She can’t get much relief from her arthritis, but her doctors are going to try something new. Thank you for asking. DORIS Well, tell her I said hello. The kids walk out they knock over garbage can all over lawn. ALBERT Hey you, pick that up... BILLY Why don't you pick it up old man? JASMINE We didn't knock it, did we? The kids laugh and keep walking. ALBERT Kids, no respect. Albert picks up the garbage.

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INT. DORIS MILLER’S HOME/KITCHEN - DUSK

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ABIGAIL There's no food in the fridge. DORIS There's no food in the fridge because you didn't pick up any. What did you do with the money that I gave you for food? ABIGAIL I spent it… DORIS That's what you do, I give you money to go buy food and you spend it with your friends? ABIGAIL I can’t hear this now. I'm going to bed, I'm tired. DORIS Come here and help me make dinner, this is not how I raised you. ABIGAIL Good night! Abigail slams the door. Doris hurting, sits down. 9

EXT. STREET - DUSK

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Albert’s driving down a street in town. He sees Father Yahuda walking. ALBERT Good evening Father, are you lost? FATHER YHUDA I'm looking for the Galilee Church. ALBERT It's not far from here, just a few blocks. Hop in I'll take you. Father Yahuda pauses for a second. ALBERT (CONT’D) Please Father.

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Father Yahuda gets into the car. ALBERT (CONT’D) It’s very sad what happened to Father John. It’s very good to see you here to continue his work. Prayers from you should help, you got a direct line to the top. (Albert chuckles). We just need him to wake up. The doctors told Sister Mary could be a week, could be a month, maybe never. He slipped into some kind of coma, so now all we can do is pray and wait. 10

EXT. TOWN STREET - DUSK

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ALBERT We have faith he’ll get better he's a strong man. Glad they sent someone to fill in for him. The church is the glue that holds this town together. Where you coming from Father? FATHER YHUDA I came from the East. As he goes to make a turn into the church we see another car cut them off, driving by fast without even stopping. Albert yells at the car. ALBERT Hey! What do you think you're doing? Slow down! That’s very dangerous the way you drive. The driver pulls over, it JAMES, 30’s, and gets out of the car with two guys. He's drunk. Starts slamming on the hood. JAMES Your on the wrong side of the road old man, and I think you’re on the wrong side of town. Albert gets out of the car. ALBERT Don’t slam your fists on my hood like that! JAMES What are you going to do about it?

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Father Yahuda gets out of car. He approaches the group. Everyone gets quiet, they back up. JAMES (CONT’D) Let's go, come on guys, let's go. They leave. James looks at Albert. JAMES (CONT’D) Oh yeah, I’ll get you next time. FATHER YAHUDA It's okay Albert, anger will lead to violence and violence will not lead to anyplace. Is that the church? ALBERT Yes, it is. FATHER YAHUDA Thank you, for the ride. ALBERT My pleasure. Good night, Father. Father Yahuda walks towards the church, looks up at the stars. He knocks on the door. Nobody answers. He sees a bench and sits down. 11

INT. ALBERT'S HOUSE - NIGHT

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Albert opens the door and walks into his house with two boxes of take out. ALBERT Ruth, Ruth I'm home. I brought you supper. How’s your legs? RUTH JOHNSON, 70's, is seated and knitting. I brought you chicken from the deli, with a side of mashed potatoes, and your favorite green bean casserole. Thank you, I do love their green bean casserole. How was your day? Just fine. Let me get you some hot water. You'll never believe who I saw today.

15.

RUTH Who did you see, God? ALBERT No, I saw the new priest, a younger fellow. Not from around here. A gentle man. RUTH Sounds like a nice guy. Any news on Father John? ALBERT Sister Mary said they are moving him to a long term care facility. They don't know when or if he’ll wake up. RUTH Oh, poor man. So where is the new Priest from? ALBERT He said he came from somewhere East? RUTH Where East? Like Texas? ALBERT He didn't say, now let me get you some water. Albert brings her a bucket of hot water for her legs. ALBERT (CONT’D) Where would you like to sit? Would you like to sit here and relax your legs into the water, make you feel better? RUTH No, I'm too tired, I can't move. Help me to get to living room ALBERT You sure you don't want to eat over here? RUTH No I want to eat with you like a normal person

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ALBERT Ok, let's go... One two three, Albert lifts her up and helps her over to the living room Be careful honey, be careful Here you go honey, let me serve you food… I love you. They hold hands. They're sitting there… give grace 12

EXT. ALBERT’S HOUSE - NIGHT

12

RUTH You're a good man Albert Johnson. I'm happy everyday that the Lord gave me you, and not your brother. 13

EXT. CHURCH - DAY

13

Sun rising over New Mexico desert. Sister Josephina is watering the flowers and sees Father Yahuda sleeping on the bench. Sister is very surprised. SISTER JOSEPHINA Hello, Father, Father! I'm so sorry, nobody informed us know you're coming. You're the replacement for Father John, right? FATHER YAHUDA Yes sister, and not to worry. SISTER JOSEPHINA I'm so sorry Father. Really, we weren’t expecting you. FATHER YAHUDA It’s okay.

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INT. CHURCH - DAY

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She opens up the church door all of a sudden the lights come up. She takes the priest by the hand and leads him into the church. SISTER JOSEPHINA Come with me. Are you hungry? Are you thirsty?

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INT. CHURCH - DAY

15

She takes his bags. Father Yahuda is studying the interior of the church, admiring the wood carvings. SISTER JOSEPHINA All the wood carvings are original, it’s a little rusty, but with a little cleaning it looks brand new. We have a choir on Sunday, and holidays of course, and the services start on Sunday as usual. It's a small town, Father. We have a staff of four people including Father John. Let me take you to his room. You can stay there. (to the other sisters) Sisters, stand up! Stand up! Here is the replacement for Father John. SISTER JOSEPHINA (CONT’D) This is Sister Caroline and Sister Mary. Welcome to our church. SISTER CAROLINE Please Father, have a seat. Are you hungry? SISTER MARY How was your trip? Nobody called us and told us you were coming. FATHER YAHUDA Not to worry. SISTER CAROLINE Please Father, can we give you a tour? They give him a tour of the church. They go to the dining room. SISTER CAROLINE (CONT’D) And here is our dining room father. Unfortunately, we don’t have a lot of chairs here. We just don’t have the money for them. We hope to have donations, but it’s OK, we use the money for better resources for the community. We all just share the chairs. Have a seat Father, please.

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INT. CLEVELAND HOME - MORNING

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Jenny Cleveland is getting the kids ready for school. JENNY Please honey we can’t be late for school... Get dressed! Get your books together. Let’s go, before your father wakes up. Be quiet. She has a hard time getting them ready. The kids are playing, getting louder. JAMES comes in, dressed in underwear and undershirt drunk. JAMES Be quiet, I said quiet! Shut up! Screaming at the kid, James grabs him. The kid is crying and screaming. MICHAEL Let me go, let me go daddy! I’m sorry! I’ll be good! I’ll be good! James shakes Michael, pushes him against the wall and makes a fist. JENNY comes in and pushes him away from Michael. JENNY Leave him alone! Leave him alone! He’s just a little boy. He doesn’t know any better. JAMES lets the kid go, yells at JENNY. JAMES Make me breakfast! Jenny, get in here and make me my breakfast! Kids are crying in background. JAMES walks in the kitchen and throws things around. JENNY grabs the kids and leaves. JENNY Don’t cry honey, let’s go to school. 17

EXT. CLEVELAND HOME - DAY

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JENNY runs with the kids to the car, starts it. JAMES runs after her screaming. She panics and pulls out the car in reverse and drives away. JAMES runs in the street yelling at her.

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SHERIFF CARTER and Deputy Eric Rydel drive up, early 60’s, arrives and confronts James. 18

EXT. CLEVELAND HOUSE STREET - CONTINUOUS SHERIFF CARTER James we already been through this if your neighbors keep complaining, then we have to go to the station. I am tired of coming out here. JAMES Not for too much longer Sheriff, you’re going to retire soon... and your deputy’s gonna take over. SHERIFF CARTER Here we go again. James, why can’t you just be a normal person? Be somebody different. Be a good guy, go to church on Sunday? Be a good man, take care of your family? DEPUTY RYDEL It looks like the apple doesn’t fall that far from the tree. JAMES What did you say Deputy? SHERIFF CARTER Just keep it quiet, go sleep it off. I don’t want to get anymore phone calls from the neighbors. DEPUTY RYDEL Why don’t we just arrest him sheriff? SHERIFF CARTER It’s a waste of time JAMES Safe driving sheriff. SHERIFF CARTER I’m serious James. Go to bed.

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INT. DOCTORS OFFICE - DAY

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DOCTOR JEFFREY GREENE (50’S) see his back towards Doris he is studying x-rays then turn to speak to Doris. He looks at her. His face is stoic. DOCTOR GREENE I am sorry, but the tumor in your lungs is growing. Its going to affect your breathing soon. So we need to put you on oxygen at night, its will help you rest better. I’m sorry Doris. 20

INT. DOCTORS OFFICE - DAY DOCTOR GREENE At this stage of cancer, there’s not much we can do. We need to start another round of chemo, a different dose this time. Best hope that it shrinks, but if not, we should keep it from growing for now. DORIS How long do I have... DOCTOR GREENE Hard to say, but we had a similar case like yours and it was a year to 18 months. DORIS OK. DOCTOR GREENE Try to eat more vegetables and keep taking your medication. The chemo is going make you weak. Do you have anyone to help you? DORIS Yeah... sort of. Oh doctor, what’s going to happen to her after I’m gone? She can’t even wash her own plates. Life has been rough for that girl since her mother died. DOCTOR GREENE At some point, we are going to need to discuss hospice. (MORE)

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21. DOCTOR GREENE (CONT'D) In the meantime, we have a service, we can connect you with a nurse to come to your home, help sort out your medicine, and check in on you.

Doris stopped listening at the word Hospice. DORIS Hospice? No doctor, I can’t leave her by herself. She will not survive. Thank you doctor, God bless you. DOCTOR I’m sorry Doris, please let me know if you need anything more. CUT TO: 21

INT. CHURCH - DAY

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Jenny is kneeling on a pew, weeping. SISTER MARY Hi Jenny, James again? JENNY I don’t know what to do. But I don't want to talk about it, please. Sister Mary sits next to her, rubbing her hand. comfort her.

Trying to

SISTER MARY We are here for you. Have you met the new priest? JENNY New priest? SISTER MARY It looks like they sent a replacement after all. He’ll be back later today. Jenny is still upset but trying to keep it inside. JENNY Excuse me, I forgot something in my car. I’ll be right back Sister.

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EXT. CHURCH PARKING LOT - DAY

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Jenny is sitting in her car, she’s crying. She looks up, but the blinding sun is in her eyes. She sees a bright light. Through the light Father Yahuda appears and hands her a cloth to wipe the tears. FATHER YAHUDA The tears shall be a day of glory. No pain shall cover your heart with darkness. The decisions that we make are choices and challenges that we overcome every day. Would you like a glass of water? JENNY I’m sorry, I’m so embarrassed, Father. FATHER YAHUDA It’s okay. 23

INT. CHURCH OFFICE - DAY

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Sister Mary in office looking out at Jenny in parking lot. SISTER MARY Is that Jenny over there? Who’s she talking to? 24

EXT. ALBERT’S HOUSE - DAY

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They are teenagers doing graffiti on a fence in Albert’s yard. Albert comes out yells at kids. 25

EXT. ALBERT’S HOUSE- DAY

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ALBERT Hey, stop that, why are you doing that? The teens run away. Albert sees Abigail drop her purse. BILLY Catch us if you can! Albert grabs her purse, goes towards the fence and looks over the graffiti. He takes a piece of wood and starts to cover up the graffiti.

23.

He hears his wife scream from the house. Worried, he runs back to the house. 26

INT. ALBERT HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - DAY Albert sees his wife on the floor, bleeding from the head. ALBERT Honey, you okay? I told you not to try to get up! RUTH I’m fine, I’m fine, just help me up. ALBERT We got to go to the hospital, you’re hurt, you’re bleeding. You're not OK. RUTH I’m fine. ALBERT We are going to the hospital, you need to see a doctor. We have to go. Oh Ruth, I told you not to get up, if you need anything, you should have called me! Albert starts panicking. Starts grabbing things to go. RUTH Albert please, stop it. I’m okay. I don’t want to go to the hospital. It hurts to walk, my knees are throbbing. I can’t go to the car. ALBERT But you’re hurt, you’re bleeding, we have to. RUTH I’m not going Albert. You need to stop it. I’m fine, I’m fine just give me a bandage to put on it. I can’t walk Albert. Now I need something to clean the blood. We have wipes in the medicine cabinet, top shelf. Bandages are on the bottom shelf. Are you listening to me Albert?

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EXT. TOWN STREET - DAY Abigail, Jasmine, Billy and Bobby are walking down the street. They are bored out of their mind. They’re smoking cigarettes, drinking, and talking. ABIGAIL Did you see Jennifer’s boyfriend? JASMINE Which Jennifer? Jennifer Johnson? ABIGAIL No, Jennifer Bar. Well, I think that guy is cute, his name is Jimmy. I think he’s from New York. BILLY He’s not from New York, he’s from Ohio or something like that. BOBBY There’s nothing cute about him. He just look like a fat doughnut. ABIGAIL No, he’s cute. You’re just jealous. BOBBY Yeah, why should I be jealous? JASMINE Because nobody wants to go out with you. BOBBY I have tons of girls who want to go out with me. ABIGAIL Yeah, right. BOBBY Ask him, he’ll tell you. BILLY Who, me? Oh yeah a thousand girls want to go with you. BOBBY Why are you lying right now? You’ve seen me with all those girls.

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25.

BILLY No, I haven’t seen you with all those girls. The guys start pushing and shoving each other. The girls keep walking. ABIGAIL Stop it! You two are idiots. JASMINE So, are you coming to the party? ABIGAIL Yeah, of course. JASMINE Josh is going to be there. ABIGAIL Who cares about Josh? JASMINE What about your grandma? She’s not going to let you go. ABIGAIL She’s fine. What am I going to do? Just stay home all day long? JASMINE Yeah, I know, just like my mom. They don’t get it. They think we’ve got to be their slaves just because we’re kids. That’s wrong ABIGAIL Yeah, I know. What are you going to wear? JASMINE That cute black dress, the one you like. ABIGAIL No, you’re not. That’s what I’m going to wear. JASMINE OK, I’ve got to go, see you later. Bye!

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ABIGAIL Bye... Cut TO: 28

EXT. CHURCH - DAY

28

Hear Church Bells ringing FATHER YAHUDA (V.O.) Time is illusion. If you ask yourself everyday what makes me happy, what is my dreams, or where do I want to go or where do I have to be? You have been given thoughts, knowledge, you’ve been given a choice between the good and the bad. You learn your needs and as days are coming, we are getting older. As we’re getting older, we’re becoming wiser. We have more knowledge. With more knowledge comes more problems and more responsibilities and we’re forgetting the faith that we have inside of us. We are forgetting the beliefs that we are meant to do good. We’re falling into bad habits. If God came to this earth, he would look for righteous people, people who strive for good. 29

EXT. CHURCH - DAY Father Yahuda sees Doris sitting on the bench and crying. Father sits down next to her, touches her and says. FATHER YAHUDA You’re a strong woman, Doris. God gave you a lot of miracles. DORIS Father, there’s many things I did in my life that I regret. My daughter died ten years ago and I promised her on her deathbed that I would keep her daughter safe and take care of her. My time has come to go.

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27.

FATHER YAHUDA You will be fine, Doris you have to have faith. DORIS That’s not what the doctor says. I’m not going to stay on earth too much longer. I have cancer, it’s spreading. FATHER YAHUDA I’m sorry for your pain. DORIS I’m not worried about me. I’ve lived. I’ve had a long life. I worry about this little girl God gave me 10 years ago, when he took my little girl. What is going to happen to her when I go? I’m afraid she will go down a path of evil. FATHER YAHUDA Don’t let darkness come from your mouth. You should let the light of wisdom guide you from your heart. I want to give you something. Please drink this bottle of water. Go home Doris, get some rest. SISTER MARY Doris, please let me drive you home. 30

EXT. CLEVELAND HOUSE - DAY Sarah and Michael are playing in the front yard. James is sitting on the porch drinking a beer. Jenny pulls up, get groceries out of car and walks inside the house. JAMES follows her into the Kitchen. JAMES Woman, where have you been? JENNY doesn’t answer him. She puts away food. JAMES (CONT’D) Woman, I asked you a question. JENNY I went to work, went to the store and came home.

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28.

JAMES You were 30 minutes late! Where have you been? WHY didn’t you answer your cell phone when I called? JENNY I was late, because as you can see, I had to get groceries. JAMES You’re lying! The kids walk in to the kitchen. MICHAEL Mommy, I’m hungry. JENNY OK, baby, give mommy a minute. JAMES Your lying! JENNY Please don’t do this, not in front of them...again. JAMES Again, where were you? You been with another man? JENNY Please, kids, I need you to go outside right now. Kids go outside! SARAH Come on Mickey... Michael and Sarah exit. JAMES Are you cheating on me? Tell me that, tell me the truth. JENNY I’m at two places everyday. Either here at house or at work. That’s it. JAMES It’s that new Priest, isn’t it? You wouldn’t even tell me if he came on to you, would you?

29.

JENNY James I’m tired of this, I don’t want to be here anymore. All I do is cook and clean for you and all I get is you drinking and accusing me of cheating with another man. You’re drinking has changed you, you are a horrible man... you’re not the man I met and fell in love with years ago. It’s care wake hard head

JAMES your responsibility to take of the kids and the house. I up in the morning and work so you have a roof over your and food on the table.

JENNY None of that gives you the right to treat me or the kids like this. JAMES Let me finish woman, understand? Look at me when I talk to you. I support this house with these two hands! So when I ask you where you at, you’re gonna answer! When I ask you to make my breakfast, you gonna make it. When I ask you to make my lunch, you gonna pack it. And when I ask you to make my dinner, you gonna make sure it’s warm, you understand? JENNY Shame on you to treat me like this. You think because you’re a man, you have the right to raise your voice and your hand to me. I am the mother of your children and I deserve respect in this house. If you want to eat tonight, cook it yourself. If you want to clean, clean up after yourself. I’m not doing any of this anymore! JAMES Cook me food right now, right now. I’m waiting. JENNY I’m not cooking anything.

30.

JAMES Woman ,you better cook me food right now. JAMES grabs JENNY and pushes her towards the table. He takes a pan from the cabinet, puts it on the stove and turns on the fire. JENNY I’m not gonna do it, I’m not gonna do it anymore! JAMES I said now. She’s crying and breaking down. The pan is starting to sizzle. SARAH Mommy, we’re hungry. JAMES Get outside, get outside right now. JENNY It’s OK, it’s OK sweetie! Please go outside. Please, go find your brother. Sarah runs outside, JAMES grabs JENNY. He grabs her hand and a spatula. He is trying to force her to cook. She’s resisting. JAMES You see that’s what you make me do. You make me do these things! He grabs her hand and forces it onto the burning frying pan. JAMES (CONT’D) You’re cheating on me aren’t you? Your flesh will burn for your sins woman! You cheat on me, your flesh will burn for your sins of the flesh. JENNY screams, grabs the burning pan, burning her hand and hits JAMES over the head with it. JAMES falls down to the ground. JENNY runs outside and grabs the kids and starts running with them. JAMES gets up and runs outside screaming.

31.

31

EXT. CLEVELAND HOME - FRONT PORCH - LATE AFTERNOON

31

JAMES Where are you? Where are you woman? You’re going to be so sorry you did that. 32

EXT. TOWN STREET - CONTINUOUS

32

JENNY’s running with kids. JAMES is a couple of blocks behind her. Kids are upset. Albert drives by in a car, he slows down. They make it to the church. They run inside. 33

INT. CHURCH - CONTINUOUS Kid looks up at statue of at Jesus Christ, FATHER YAHUDA walks into frame. MICHAEL Who’s this? FATHER YAHUDA Who do you think it is? MICHAEL He looks like you... FATHER YAHUDA What is your name? MICHAEL I’m Mickey. FATHER YAHUDA How old are you? MICHAEL 6 years old. FATHER YAHUDA What do you love the most? MICHAEL Ice cream. FATHER YAHUDA What else? MICHAEL Gummy bears.

33

32.

FATHER YAHUDA What else? MICHAEL I like my sister, but sometimes she pulls my hair. She teases me, she hides my toys sometimes, and won’t tell me where they are. Sister Mary and Sister Josephina walk in. SISTER MARY Here, come with me I got something sweet to eat. JENNY Thank you sister. I’m sorry I didn't know where to go. My mom’s not home. SISTER MARY You are always welcome here, Jenny. Michael follows SISTER MARY, Sarah runs after them. SARAH I want some too. FATHER YAHUDA (TO JENNY) In life there are obstacles and there’s challenges. Marriage can be a long path. I know it’s very hard for you. Sheriff Carter walks in with Deputy Eric . SHERIFF CARTER Jenny we need to talk. I’m not going to tell you what to do, but in order for us to arrest him, you need to press charges. Did he hurt you? Did he hurt your hands? JENNY hides hands. DEPUTY ERIC Jenny, you have kids. Things are getting worse. Think of your children. Now if you want, we can arrest him right now. Jenny you have to do this, just press charges against him.

33.

34

EXT. CHURCH - DAY

34

JAMES walking towards the Church and is yelling. JAMES Jenny, Jenny, I’m sorry, where are you? JAMES stumbles and falls and see a hand going towards him to help him get up. James looks up, sees the sun, then Father Yahuda standing there, offering his hand to help. James brushes it aside. JAMES (CONT’D) I don’t need your help! James gets up on his own. And the father tries to help again. JAMES (CONT’D) I said I don’t need your help. You stay away from my wife. She doesn’t need your shelter. Stay away from her or it’s not going to end up like this next time. Sheriff stands in the church doorway, sees James is talking to someone but can’t see who. SHERIFF Is everything OK over there? JAMES (TO SHERIFF) Yeah, I’m just saying good bye to the priest. James turns to Father Yahuda. JAMES (CONT’D) Stay away from my wife, she doesn’t need your shelter. Sheriff has puzzled look on his face. JAMES tries to enter the church, Sheriff stops him from coming close to Jenny and the kids. SHERIFF James stop right there, don’t cause any problems in the church. JAMES Jenny, I’m sorry I want you to come home, I’m sorry I didn’t mean it! Kids, Kids! Come here, it’s Daddy.

34.

DEPUTY ERIC James stay right there. We can arrest you right now. You’re drunk! SHERIFF What do you say Jenny? Just give us the word and we can arrest him right now. JAMES Come on baby, I love you. You know I would never hurt you. You’re the love of my life. You’re my sweet heart. He pulls out candy for the kids from his pocket. JAMES (CONT’D) Sarah, Mikey come here. Daddy brought you a treat. Kids run to him. JAMES Looks at Jenny. JAMES (CONT’D) Please come home honey. I’m sorry! SHERIFF CARTER If you want to go home, I’ll drive you and the kids. James you stay here, I’ll be back for you. Make sure you are sober before you go home. JAMES That’s OK Sheriff, I called Earl. He’s coming for me. 35

INT. EMERGENCY ROOM WAITING ROOM - DUSK Albert helps Ruth to a chair. ALBERT Just sit over here, I’ll sign you in. RUTH Thank you Albert. Albert goes to the registration desk.

35

35.

ALBERT My wife fell, she has a deep cut on her forehead. I think she needs stitches. NURSE Please sir, fill out this paperwork. Is she still bleeding? ALBERT No, its stopped. NURSE Can she make it to the triage room. ALBERT She has really bad arthritis, she has a lot of trouble walking. NURSE Okay sir, tell her to stay right where she is, I’ll come to her. Please sir, can I have your insurance card and ID? Fill out the forms while I check on your wife. He waves to his wife, she waves back. Doris Miller is coming down the corridor, she is weeping. Albert sees her, and goes over. ALBERT Doris are you OK? DORIS What are you doing here Albert, you OK? ALBERT I brought Ruth to the hospital, she fell. She’s crying and doesn’t answer. the nurse attending to Ruth.

He glances over and sees

ALBERT (CONT’D) Doris are you OK? DORIS Yes, I’m fine. ALBERT How are you getting home? Don’t go anywhere. Ruth will see the doctor then we’ll drive you home.

36.

They have Ruth in a wheelchair and are wheeling her back to the exam room. 36

INT. EXAM ROOM - NIGHT

36

DOCTOR That’s a great job on the bandage. Who did it? RUTH My husband. Doctor removes the bandage and examines the wound. Albert is very concerned. ALBERT Doctor, she has bad circulation, do you think that would effect her forehead? RUTH Albert! Sorry doctor... ALBERT I’m just asking him if that would have any effect, that’s all. DOCTOR That shouldn’t make a difference. But if you keep her legs elevated at night, that should help. Have you tried that? ALBERT Yes we have. DOCTOR Do you need any refills on your pain medication? I’d like to give you something extra for that nice bump on your head. ALBERT She has some for the arthritis. DOCTOR I’ll write a prescription anyway, just take it if you need it. Feel better, Mrs. Johnson. RUTH See I told you I’m fine, we didn’t have to come here.

37.

ALBERT OK, sweetie I guess you’re always right. RUTH You’re a stubborn man, you’ve always been a stubborn man. ALBERT Yes honey... hey. I’m going stop for apple pie on the way back. You want apple pie? RUTH It’s not good for my blood sugar, you know that Albert, but OK let’s do it. ALBERT OK, honey. Doris needs a ride home, maybe she’ll join us for pie. 37

INT. HOSPITAL WAITING ROOM - NIGHT Albert stops and looks for Doris. ALBERT I don’t see Doris, she was supposed to wait for us. I told her I’d take her home. RUTH Albert... Albert, check over there, she was sitting there. Albert walks up to the Nurse’s station. ALBERT Excuse me, did you see a woman sitting here about this high, white hair around here? NURSE No, she was here, but I didn't see where she went. RUTH Maybe she got a ride.. They leave.

37

38.

38

EXT. STREET - NIGHT

38

Albert and Ruth are pulling out of the hospital driveway. He sees Doris walking, she looks lost and tired. Albert stops. He gets out quickly, and goes to Ruth. ALBERT Doris, Doris! Why did you leave? Doris looks very weak. DORIS I called my granddaughter. She was supposed to come with Teddy and pick me up. She never showed up. ALBERT Doris get in the car, let us take you home. We are going for pie, please join us. RUTH Our treat, my dear. DORIS I don’t feel well. I want to go home. RUTH Please come, pie makes even thin bump on my head feel better. Plus we haven’t visited in a while. ALBERT Just give in, and come. DORIS OK, just for a little while. 39

INT. DINER - NIGHT WAITRESS Good afternoon folks, can I get you started with a drink or coffee? ALBERT We are ready to order. Three apple pies and tea all around. Ruth is still studying the menu.

39

39.

RUTH I changed my mind, no tea I want hot chocolate with lots of whipped cream. ALBERT You know the doctor says to much sugar is no good for you. RUTH Oh stop it Albert. Stop it! She speaks to Doris. RUTH (CONT’D) He’s always trying to tell me what to do, what to eat or not eat. I’m 72 year old and he keeps treating me like I’m 20 years old. At my age, no more rules, I am going to eat and drink whatever I choose. Maybe I will have two cups of hot chocolate tonight. Doris not listening, she’s deep in thought. ALBERT How you doing Doris? in church on Sunday.

I missed you

DORIS What? Oh, I’m fine Albert. I’m fine. RUTH What are you dong in the hospital? DORIS I have cancer, I have been trying to keep it from everyone butRUTH Oh God forgive. ALBERT What did the doctor say? DORIS Well, they say that if I keep doing the chemo, (laughs) maybe the tumor will shrink and I can live a couple more years. What will happen to my Teddy? (MORE)

40. DORIS (CONT'D) No way my granddaughter can take care of him, she can’t even take care of herself. I don’t know what to--

The waitress approaches with the pies. WAITRESS Here you go folks! Three apple pies, and two teas and here’s your hot chocolate with extra whipped cream. ALBERT That does look delicious. got it.

Glad you

RUTH There’s so much they do for cancer now. My Aunt Suzanne had cancer. Her doctor said she only had a few months to live. Her daughter got all organic food, she made her all these juices, and you know she lived ‘til 96 years old. Don’t you believe all those doctors. ALBERT I’m so sorry Ruth. about her aunt.

That's true

RUTH All they did was go to a fancy university and read a lot of books. All of sudden they become God telling you when you should live and die. Only God determines when our final days are. God is our only saviour who will call for us on the day of judgement. ALBERT Ruth, stop it with that talk. RUTH It’s right. No man should tell us when she should live and die. Only God determines that. DORIS Excuse me, I have to go to the bathroom. I don't feel well. Doris gets up.

41.

ALBERT No problem, we’ll take you home after you come back. 40

INT. DINER/BATHROOM - NIGHT Doris looks in the mirror.

41

40 She dabs tears from her eyes.

EXT. DORIS MILLERS HOUSE - NIGHT

41

Alberts car pulls up to Doris’ house. The lights are on inside. Albert gets out and helps Doris out of the car and up to her door. RUTH Doris, call me.

I’m here for you.

Albert walks her to the front door. ALBERT Can I walk you in? DORIS I’m fine from here. Albert.

Thank you

Doris walks into the house. 42

INT. DORIS MILLER HOUSE - NIGHT

42

DORIS Abigail, Abigail? Are you home? Teddy comes in to the living room. TEDDY Mama mama, you OK? DORIS Yes, baby. You OK? Where’s Abbie? Did she feed you? TEDDY Teddy hungry. DORIS Okay my dear, go to the kitchen, I’ll be there. CUT TO:

42.

43

INT. ABBIES ROOM - NIGHT

43

Abigial and Jasmine are doing each others hair. DORIS hears music coming from Abbie's room. are doing their hair.

The two girls

JASMINE What do you think I should do with my hair? Should I go blonde or just do highlights? ABIGAIL Remember when you did those highlights, it looked horrible. JASMINE It doesn’t feel me! I just want something different. ABIGAIL Maybe you should get bangs. JASMINE No bangs...not my style! I think I want to go red. Yes, maybe red! What do you think? ABIGAIL Red? What, you trying to be like Michelle? JASMINE No, the difference is, I will make red look good. ABIGAIL Your going to the party tomorrow, right? JASMINE Yes, I am wearing the dress, so don't even ask? DORIS(O.S.) Abigail! JASMINE Hey, I think your grandmother is calling you.

43.

ABIGAIL Let her, she’s just going to yell at me. Let’s just go. Are you ready? Let’s go. They go down the stairs and hurry quickly out the door. CUT TO: 44

INT. DORIS MILLERS KITCHEN - NIGHT

44

Teddy is seated at the table, Doris is making him a sandwich. She hears footsteps coming down the stairs. She heads out of the kitchen to go find Abbie. DORIS Abigail, Abigail... She stops when she hears the front door slam. She turns back to Teddy, who is sitting at the kitchen table playing like a small child with the salt and pepper shakers. Doris looks at him, and a tear rolls down her face. She continues to make his sandwich. She brings it to him, and sits down next to him. She rubs his hair while he eats. TEDDY Thanks mama, teddy was hungry. 45

INT. CHURCH - DAY

45

Father Yahuda is working with wood. It’s unclear what he is building. Sister Mary comes in the room. SISTER MARY Hello Father, what are you building? Do you need any help? FATHER YAHUDA No thank you sister. SISTER MARY At least let me get you a glass of water. FATHER YAHUDA That would be very nice of you. Sister Mary returns with a glass of water. SISTER MARY Would you like to eat Father? Sister caroline has made us lunch.

44.

FATHER YAHUDA Yes, thank you sister. I will be there shortly. CUT TO: 46

INT. BAR - DAY

46

James is sitting at a bar drinking and playing cards with Steve, (late 30’s). JAMES Man, you don’t know how to play cards. Even if I show you all my cards, you would still loose, you play like my old lady. STEVE Coming from you, who just learned to play cards. I’m going to double my bet. He empties his pockets on the table. spill out.

Random bills and change

STEVE (CONT’D) Here’s everything in my pocket. Your way to arrogant, my friend. JAMES I’ll take your bet... CUT TO: 47

INT. JENNYS CAR - DAY

47

Jenny is driving. Sarah and Mikey are in the back seat. Jenny passes the Corner Pub, and notices James’ car in the parking lot. She makes a U-turn and pulls in the lot. She parks and takes the kids inside. She scans the room and see’s James playing cards. JENNY You two stay right here. She goes over to the card game. JENNY (CONT’D) Please tell me you stopped at the bank, and made the mortgage payment.

45.

JAMES You’re interrupting my game, we can do this later. JENNY No we need to do this now. Is the money on the table the money I gave you to take to the bank? JAMES I said later! She puts her hand on the table, puts her hand on his money. James grabs her hand, squeezes it very hard. Her burns are still very tender, she whimpers in pain. He lets her hand go. Steve is uncomfortable with what he is witnessing. Sarah and Michael approach their parents. crossing his legs.

Michael is

SARAH Sorry momma, but Mickey’s got to pee. JENNY Wait one minute, we’ll leave soon. MICKEY Daddy, are you going to get ice cream with us? JAMES No, not now. He reaches for her hand again, grabs her but doesn’t squeeze. JAMES (CONT’D) Don’t you dare touch this table, I am going to finish my game. STEVE It’s okay, I’ve got to go anyway. JAMES Steve, sit back down. We’re going to finish this game. Jenny you need to get out of here. He squeezes her hand just a little.

46.

JAMES (CONT’D) Jenny don’t make me do things I don’t want to do. Now leave... He squeezes a little harder, she whimpers. JAMES (CONT’D) Don’t make me... Mickey and Sarah return from the bathroom. James lets go of her hand, and she pulls it away quickly. Her eyes are full of tears. JAMES (CONT’D) Kids go with your mommy. JENNY Come on kids, let’s go home. She leaves. James turns right back the game. JAMES What you got? CUT TO: 48

INT. CLEVELAND HOME/LIVING ROOM - DAY

48

Jenny and the kids go inside, she turns on cartoons for the kids, and goes to her room. 49

INT. CLEVELAND HOME/JENNYS BEDROOM - DAY

49

Jenny sits down on her bed and folds clothing, starts to tear up. While tears roll down her face. JENNY God, please help me, please. I don’t want this life anymore... GodJENNY hears a knock on the door. She stops praying and quickly dries her eyes, gets up to answer the door. 50

INT/EXT. CLEVELAND HOME - DAY Jenny opens the door to find Father Yahuda standing there. She again quickly tries to compose herself. FATHER YAHUDA Hi Jenny, how are you?

50

47.

JENNY Hi Father, is everything OK? Why are you here? FATHER Sarah forgot her day, at church. might be missing

YHUDA doll the other I thought she it.

Jenny takes the doll. JENNY Thank you for bringing it. Would you like to come in? You want something to drink? FATHER YAHUDA No, thank you. I don’t want to bother you. JENNY (CALLS TO KIDS) It is. Sarah, Sarah come here! Sarah comes in the door. SARAH Emily! Emily! MICKEY Hey, that’s the man who looks like the statue. JENNY Sarah, what do you say to Father for bringing Emily back to you? SARAH Thank you Father! FATHER YAHUDA You’re welcome Sarah, I am so happy to see you reunited with Emily. Father Yahuda smiles and notices the staircase banister is broken. FATHER YAHUDA (CONT’D) Has that banister been broken long? I can fix it for you. JENNY Oh no Father, it’s fine. James will fix it soon.

I’m sure

48.

FATHER YHUDA Please, I’m very good with wood work, I enjoy it. Do you have any tools? JENNY James has an old tool box out back, let me grab it. Please come inside. Teddy walks up the path, and approaches the open door. TEDDY Jenny, hi...Hi Jenny. TEDDY (CONT’D) Can Mikey and Sarah play? wants to play.

Teddy

JENNY What are you doing here? Does your Mom know you’re here. TEDDY Yeah, she knows JENNY Ok, I’ll grab them, just be careful they’re little. TEDDY Ok Jenny leaves. Teddy turns his attention to Father Yahuda. Teddy speaks with complete clarity. As though he has no delays. TEDDY (CONT’D) Hi, God. FATHER YAHUDA Hello Theodore. How are you? TEDDY It’s good that you came here. There’s a lot of problems in this town. Father Yahuda touches Teddy’s shoulder. understand each other.

They lock eyes and

Jenny enters with Mickey and Sarah in tow. Sarah and Mikey are excited to see Teddy.

49.

Teddy!

SARAH Hi.

MICHAEL Hi Teddy, want to play basketball? Teddy returns to the childlike man his always has been. TEDDY Yes, Teddy likes to play basketball. JENNY Stay in the driveway where I can see you, okay kids? Okay Teddy? KIDS AND TEDDY Okay... Jenny turns back to Father Yahuda. Father Yahuda walks over to the broken wood, and runs his hands along the bannister. He seems to be studying the damage, and admiring the work at the same time. Father Yahuda takes the tool box from Jenny. through it.

He rummages

FATHER YAHUDA I think I can make this work. Father takes out a few tools and begins the repairs. JENNY May I please offer you a drink. FATHER YAHUDA Just water will be fine, thank you. Father Yahuda is busy repairing the damage. quickly returns with the water.

Jenny leaves and

JENNY Father... what’s it like to be a priest and dedicate your life to God? He is deeply engrossed in the wood repair, and doesn’t answer her. JENNY (CONT’D) I’m sorry, I don’t want to sound disrespectful...

50.

Jenny glances out at the kids and sees them laughing and playing. Jenny sits down and watches Father Yahuda work. There’s a knock on the door, JENNY answers to find their neighbor Peter (40’s). PETER Hey Jenny, is James home? PETER looks over and sees FATHER hard at work on the banister. JENNY No, he’s not. PETER Hey Father, you are a man of many talents. FATHER YAHUDA (SMILES) Peter, how are you today? PETER No complaints. JENNY What did you need with James, can I help you with something? PETER He borrowed my hand saw last week and I need it for a job tomorrow. Do you know where he might have put it? JENNY You can find him in the pub. PETER Thanks, take care Jenny! Peter leaves. Father finishes fixing banister. FATHER YAHUDA Here you go Jenny, good as new! Jenny runs her hand over the repair work, and it looks brand new again. JENNY Wow, Father, thank you so much!

51.

FATHER YAHUDA I have to go now, be strong Jenny, don’t loose hope. I know things seem bad now, but good things will come to you. JENNY Thanks again father, come back anytime. You’re always welcome. FATHER leaves. JENNY shuts the door and see’s that he’s left a book on the staircase. She picks it up and goes to the door to find him. JENNY (CONT’D) Hey father, father... you forgot this book... The kids are still playing. She doesn’t see the Father anywhere. She looks at the book, and it’s the Bible. 51

INT. CORNER PUB. - DAY

51

James is visibly agitated, and drunk. He is losing money quickly, and still playing cards. There are several other card players who have joined the game. It’s gone from friendly to serious, and there is a large pile of money now on the table. PETER James, hey buddy sorry to interrupt your game, but I need my hand saw. Jenny didn’t know where it was. JAMES It’s in the tool shed, just go back there and grab it. You want to sit down? Join the game? PETER No, I should go. You know it’s nice that the church is helping your family. The new priest was over there helping Jenny fix something, that broken bannister. He did a great job. James is intensely focused on the game. JAMES All in!

He raises his bet.

52.

The hands unfold, and James has lost. He is beyond upset, sweating, and slams his beer. The bottle breaks. JAMES (CONT’D) What? What did you say about my wife? She’s with that Priest? PETER No, no man, he was at your place, but he left. JAMES No, no you said something else... James pushes Peter. JAMES (CONT’D) Say it again... say it again. PETER Hey take it easy man... JAMES Don’t tell me to take it easy... How dare you disrespect my wife. James jumps up and pushes Peter, they begin to fight. 52

INT. CHURCH - DAY

52

Sisters are going through Christmas decorations, making lists, organizing. They have a big box, very worn, labeled Christmas tree. Father Yahuda walks in. SISTER MARY Hello Father! Father John always likes to prepare the Christmas decorations weeks before Christmas. I feel like now we have fallen behind. Father picks up an old beautiful glass ornament. FATHER YAHUDA This is beautiful. SISTER MARY Some are very special, we had high hopes of raising enough money to buy a new tree, something proper to display them on. This old tree is so small, and falling apart, but it will have to do one more year.

53.

SISTER JOSEPHINA Father it’s lunch soon. Will you be joining us? Can I bring you some water? Father Yahuda is looking through a box of very worn tools. FATHER YAHUDA Thank you Sister Josephina, I would like to join you two. These tools have been used very well, whom do they belong to? SISTER MARY Oh, Albert loaned them to me a few weeks ago, I am going to return them after lunch. FATHER YAHUDA Sister, do you mind if I return them for you? 53

INT/EXT. JAMES CAR - LATE AFTERNOON

53

James is intoxicated. He is driving recklessly, weaving in and out of traffic. His face is bruised. He clearly was on the losing end of the fight. He attempts to pull into his driveway, and ends up partly in the yard. CUT TO: 54

INT. CLEVELAND HOME/KIDS’S BEDROOM - LATE AFTERNOON

54

JENNY and the kids are in their bedroom. She is laying out their pajamas.. JENNY Mikey, put these on, you guys are going to bed early tonight. Pick out a book for me to read, then go change. SARAH Go to bed before Daddy comes home, right? Jenny stops, she realizes that her kids, especially Sarah understands more than she thought. Mickey hands her a book. JENNY Just change.

54.

Front door opens, it’s James. Jenny freezes as she hears the front door open. Sarah hears it too, and looks at her mother, unsure what to do. JAMES (O.S.) Where are you? Where are you? Jenny hands Sarah the book. JENNY Read this to him, and please let him pick a couple more. 55

INT. CLEVELAND HOME - LATE AFTERNOON JENNY comes downstairs.

James is in a rage.

JENNY I’m here, what’s wrong? JAMES What was he doing here? Why was he in my house? I told him to stay away from you. Why was he in my house? Peter told me everything, you watching him as he worked. Your flirting with him... JENNY What? Nothing happened! He just came to give Sarah her doll back. She forgot it at church the other day, remember? JAMES I don't care why he came, you let him into my house. JENNY Yes, because he offered to fix something. He saw that it was broken, you never fix anything around here... JAMES I don’t care about anything. He wouldn’t be here unless you have something going on behind my back!

55

55.

JENNY You’re crazy James! You’re losing it. I knew I shouldn’t have come back! JAMES Why was he here? JENNY Stop screaming, the kids can hear you! CUT TO: 56

INT. CLEVELAND HOME/KIDS BEDROOM - LATE AFTERNOON

56

Mikey is covering his ears, Sarah is trying to comfort him. BACK TO: 57

INT. CLEVELAND HOME - LATE AFTERNOON

57

James picks up a vase and throws it against the wall. shatters.

It

BACK TO: 58

INT. CLEVELAND HOME/ KIDS BEDROOM - LATE AFTERNOON Mikey room.

jumps at the loud sound.

He runs from out of his

INT. CLEVELAND HOME - LATE AFTERNOON Mickey runs out the back door. Sarah starts to chase him, but she is concerned about her mother and goes to check on her. BACK TO: JENNY That’s it! I’m gonna pack up. Me and kids are leaving right now! JAMES Where you gonna go Jenny? Where you gonna go? To him? JENNY Mikey, Sarah come here.

58

56.

Sarah comes in crying. JAMES Stop crying already. a reason to cry?

Do you want

JENNY You’re a horrible father. How dare you do this in front of the kids? Mikey, Michael. Sarah, where’s your brother? Sarah is still upset. Michael!

JENNY (CONT’D) Where is he?

SARAH He ran outside. He was scared. JENNY Ran where? SARAH Out the back door. JENNY What? Jenny runs to the back door. 59

Sarah follows behind her.

EXT. CLEVELAND HOME/BACKYARD - DUSK

59

Jenny’s screaming JENNY Mickey, Mikey.... James comes out. His son being missing has made him snap out of his rage. He’s now a father who is panicked, looking for his son. They divide up, James heads to the front of the house, and starts banging on neighbors doors. At the same time, you can you Jenny screaming “Mikey” from the back of the house. Neighbors are coming out, helping to look. Even Peter joins in the search. We see Jenny calling 911, while surrounded by neighbors. CUT TO:

57.

60

EXT. CLEVELAND HOME - EVENING

60

Sheriff Carter’s car pulls up. Sheriff and Deputy get out and walk up to the house DEPUTY ERIC You know what I think Sheriff I think the poor kid just left because he can’t stand his dad. SHERIFF CARTER We’re not in the family consulting business. We’ve got to find that kid before he gets hurt. Jenny runs to his car, she is frantic. to her.

James is right next

SHERIFF CARTER (CONT’D) Calm Down Jenny, I need details right now. When did you see him last and what was he wearing? How tall is he, and he’s 6 right? Brown hair/ brown eyes, right? Jenny turns to James. JAMES Maybe 30 minutes ago?

Longer?

JENNY He had on a blue T-shirt, jeans. Yes he’s 6. Yes, brown hair (she begins to cry) JAMES Brown eyes, he’s about 40” tall. He comes to right about here on me. Sheriff Carter calls in the report to dispatch: SHERIFF CARTER We have a missing youth, male 6 years old. Last seen wearing blue shirt, blue jeans. Approximately 40” tall. All units please respond. A crowd of concerned neighbors have gathered, including Peter. SHERIFF CARTER (CONT’D) Why did he leave?

58.

JENNY James had just came home, we got into an argument, he got scared and just ran off. Sheriff Carter turns to James. DEPUTY ERIC I need you to be honest James. Did you touch him? Did you hurt him. JAMES How dare you say that Deputy! I never touch my son! DEPUTY ERIC Just your wife, right? James starts to speak, Jenny shushes him. Sheriff Carter addresses the neighbors gathered around. SHERIFF CARTER (CONT’D () OK everyone we need to organize a search party. Peter, can you divide this group up and send each group in a different direction? Right now people, we need to spread out and make it fast. It’s getting darker by the minute. Remember, shout his name, yell for Mickey. Peter turns to the group, and starts to divide them. DEPUTY ERIC Jenny, you need to get on your phone, start calling anyone who may have seen him. Think if there is a house he may run to, someone he trusts. Start calling now. JENNY Okay Deputy. SHERIFF CARTER Deputy you go head east. Jenny is very shaken up, her friend and neighbor SUSAN, 40’s, takes Jenny to the porch. SUSAN Come on Jenny, let me help you. We’re going to find him.

59.

Jenny nods and walks with her. SHERIFF CARTER James, all my deputies are looking, but you know him better. Would he go to the park or the school? Where might he run to? JAMES I don't know. He likes the park, I just don't know. SHERIFF CARTER You have been drinking, you can’t drive. Sheriff Carter turns to the crowd. SHERIFF CARTER (CONT’D) Who has a truck? I need a volunteer to take James. A neighbor, Jeff, 30’s, raises his hand. JEFF Come on James, I’ll take you. The search starts. We see cops, and neighbors looking everywhere. People searching for Mikey in fields and knocking on doors. The sheriff has established a command center in the Cleveland home living room. He now has two deputies assisting him. They have a map, and are crossing of sections as reports pour in of the areas already searched. Sheriff Carter is studying the map. SHERIFF This can’t be. It doesn’t make sense. He couldn’t have gone that far. He couldn't run that far. 61

INT. CHURCH - NIGHT Sister Mary answers the phone. SISTER MARY No, no he’s not here. We can help. We are coming to Jenny’s house. SISTER JOSEPHINA Sister, what happened?

61

60.

SISTER MARY Jenny’s son Mickey is missing. SISTER JOSEPHINA Oh mercy, it’s dark, it’s getting cold. That sweet little boy. SISTER MARY Yes, we need to help. I’ll go get Father. Sister Mary rushes into the church courtyard, where Father Yahuda is building chairs. SISTER MARY (CONT’D) Father, Jenny’s son ran away. We are going to help the search before it gets really dark out. FATHER YAHUDA He’s be fine, go to Jenny. Father Yahuda just looks at them. CUT TO: 62

INT. DORIS MILLER’S BEDROOM - NIGHT

62

Doris is laying in bed. She is becoming short of breath. She is trying to get up but can’t. She calls for Abigial. DORIS Abigail... Abigail! I need your help! 63

INT. DORIS MILLER HOUSE/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

63

She’s struggling to breath, and somehow manages to make it to her oxygen tank in the living room. She is fumbling with the get to the controls trying to get the mask on, she is becoming desperate. She passes out and falls down. Teddy comes in and sees her laying there. Teddy is immediately upset. He sits next to her, and tries to wake her TEDDY Mamma wake up, mamma wake up. She doesn't respond. He is now extremely upset, and continues to do what he can to wake her. He is wailing.

61.

MAAAMA!

TEDDY (CONT’D) MAAAMA!

There is a knock at the door. Teddy ignores it. He is crying very loudly and shouting now at his mother to wake up. She is non responsive. Teddy is patting Doris, trying to make her wake up. oblivious to the knocking at the door. 64

He is

EXT. DORIS MILLER HOUSE - NIGHT

64

Teddy runs from the house to go find help.

He is screaming.

TEDDY Help, help... Neighbors are looking out the window, and coming outside. is causing a panic. He runs into the street and Albert almost hits him. the brake and Teddy slams on the hood.

He

He slams

CUT TO: 65

EXT. DORIS MILLER HOUSE - NIGHT

65

Albert has ran out the back door, trying to get inside. He tried the door and its open. He runs towards Teddy voice. He see’s Doris laying there. He grabs her oxygen mask, puts it on her face. TEDDY Mama sick, mama sick. wake her.

Teddy can’t

ALBERT Its OK Teddy, it’s okay. Teddy is rocking back and forth. over, “mama sick”.

He is repeating over and

Albert grabs the phone, and calls for an ambulance. 66

INT. HOUSE PARTY - NIGHT Teenagers all partying Abigail there with her friends. See dancing moving, talking, laughing, party commotion. See abigail and Jasmine dancing with guys.

66

62.

67

EXT. ALBERT’S YARD/SEARCH PARTY - NIGHT

67

Cut back to a search group looking for Mickey as they walk into Albert’s yard, they spot one shoe in Albert’s yard. JEFF Hey, hey I found something. this his?

Is

Everyone gathers around and sees the shoe. JAMES That's his..he was here. SEARCHER #2 Look at that barn over there... let’s check that barn. JAMES Yeah, I know which house it belongs to, Albert, this old black man. FRIEND #1 Come on, search the barn. 68

INT. HOUSE PARTY - NIGHT Abigail is in a corner talking to two teenage boys. ERIC -18. BENNY Hey do you want to drink something really strong? ABIGAIL No, I think I had enough to drink already. I am really hot, is it hot in here? ERIC Come on, come outside with us. Benny's got some good stuff, we can share. ABIGAIL I’ve need to find my friend. BENNY You don’t need your friend, just come with us, get some fresh air.

68 BENNY-18

63.

ERIC Hey, let’s just go for a drive. There’s a great spot I know near here. You can see a million stars. ABIGAIL But, wait, I have to tell my friend. ERIC Now I am hot, come on, it’s super close. ABIGAIL Alright, I am dying here, but we can’t stay long. BENNY No not long at all, just cool off. They get into a pickup truck and drive off. CUT TO: 69

EXT. CLEVELAND HOUSE - NIGHT

69

Jenny is sitting on her porch, there is chaos all around her. She walks to the backyard, kneels down in the wet grass, and looks under the porch checking for Mikey. He’s not there. She looks up at the night sky. She begins to pray. CUT TO: 70

EXT. FIELD - NIGHT

70

Abigail sitting in a quiet field with Benny and Eric. They started a small campfire, burning some trash from the back of the truck. Benny pulls out a bottle of whiskey, he passes it to Eric. He pours some into a cup and hands it to Abbie. ERIC So you like it? ABIGAIL Like what? BENNY Like this, look at this the stars doesn’t this feel romantic?

64.

ABIGAIL No, not with two guys, it feels strange. BENNY Come on get loose, come on, we talked to Jasmine she says you’re into that. ABIGAIL What? You talked to Jasmine? She said I’m into what? Come on guys I want to go back, can we go back please? I left Jasmine over there. Benny starts to play with her hair. Eric starts to feel her chest. She tries to pull away. ERIC Why are you rushing to get out of here? Just relax. Eric tries to kiss her.

She shoves him.

ABIGAIL Don’t touch me, get your hands off me! I want to go back, NOW! BENNY Just relax. ABIGAIL Lay one hand on me, and I will call the Sheriff. BENNY Call him, go ahead, scream at the top of your lungs, only the coyotes can hear you out here. Benny grabs her. ABIGAIL lets out several screams, then head butts him, Eric tried to put her in a head lock, she bites his forearm, he let go and she takes off. She runs into the darkness of the field toward the treeline. ERIC She bit me! She bit me! Get her! They run after her. Deputy ERIC is passing buy yelling out the window for Michael. He hears the scream and sees the kids bonfire. He goes into the woods and finds the two guys running after her. He stops the guys and arrests them.

65.

ABIGAIL runs fast, she’s out of breath, but stops running once she is in the woods. She looks for a place to hide, she sees in the distance someone carrying a torch. Who ever it is, has to be a better choice that the two chasing her. She pauses for a second unsure, but then sprints in the direction of the man. CUT TO: 71

INT. ALBERT’S BARN - NIGHT - CONTINUOUS James, Earl and Jeff start ransacking the barn. yelling for “Mikey.”

71 They are

JAMES Where is he? He’s got to be here I know he’s here. I know this man took him. EARL There’s nothing here, let’s check out the house. CUT TO: 72

INT. SMALL CAVE - NIGHT

72

Cut to Mikey shivering in a small cave. He hears the noises of the forest. He’s terrified and closes his eyes. He opens his eyes to see a coyote creeping towards him. MIKEY Mommy help... help! Please somebody help! We see the glow of torch and a shadow of a man. The man throws the torch toward the coyote, the animal runs away. The fire lights up the cave and we see that the man is Father Yahuda. Mikey see him and runs to him, Father Yahuda picks him up, and carries him out of the cave. MIKEY (CONT’D) I want my mommy.... FATHER YAHUDA I’ll take you to her, she is looking everywhere for you, son.

66.

73

EXT. SMALL CAVE - NIGHT

73

Father Yahuda and Mickey exit the cave and start walking. Abigail appears out of nowhere. She realizes it’s Father Yahuda, and almost jumps on him, she realizes he is carrying a child. She stops. ABIGAIL Father, Father, please help me, these guys, they are chasing me. She breaks down crying. ABIGAIL (CONT’D) They tried to hurt me... FATHER YHUDA You’re safe now. I promise. Lets walk to the road, then I need you to return this little boy to his mommy. You know his mother, right? ABIGAIL Yes, hi Mikey. I bet your mama’s worried sick. They make it to the road, and Father Yahuda hands Mikey to Abigial. He’s exhausted and melts into her. She is sweet and tender with him, patting his back. FATHER YAHUDA Abigial, your grandmother needs you, she loves you very much. Please look after her, stay with her. Abigial nods and starts to walk away. They all hear the sound of breaking glass and see a fire in the distance. ABIGAIL That’s Albert Johnson’s house. It looks like there’s a fire. FATHER YAHUDA I need you to go right now, take Mickey home to his mom. 74

EXT. ALBERT JOHNSON'S HOUSE - NIGHT

74

Ruth is sitting inside. She hears commotion outside, things breaking and men shouting.

67.

RUTH What’s going on? Get off my porch! Who’s there? JAMES Where’s my son? Open the door! Open the door! James is beating on the door. Ruth can’t get up to answer. He begins kicking the door, and eventually kicks the door in. The men pour in and begin searching and screaming for Mikey. RUTH Get out of my house get out of my house! Get out! Get out of my house! Get out of my house your son isn’t here. This isn’t your place, get out! She tries to get up and falls down on the ground in pain. JAMES Where is he? Where’s my son? Tell me what you did to my son. What did you do to my son? Where’s your husband. He has him, did he hurt him? Ruth is terrified, and crying on the floor. EARL I can’t find him. him somewhere.

Maybe he took

They drop a torch as they leave.

Ruth screams.

RUTH Albert, Albert! Oh my God, somebody please help me! Close up of someone putting a robe over the fire and putting it out. Pull out to reveal it’s Father Yahuda. Then the priest lifts her up, light is coming out of him. He sits her down and sees her bleeding. He holds her legs, then she falls back in the chair. FATHER YAHUDA You shall know any fear of any soul and you shall share love of what your heart desire. Mankind can be evil but mankind can be good. (MORE)

68. FATHER YAHUDA (CONT'D) Your heart shall lead you into a paradise and the deeds you did into this world shall give you rights to live in a spiritual world forever. Just relax, just rest it’s OK Ruth.

She falls back and closes her eyes. He touches and heals her legs. 75

INT. CLEVELAND HOME - NIGHT- CONTINUOUS

75

Close up of Jenny praying in the back yard. She hears commotions from the front of the house. People yelling. She jumps up and runs to the front of the house. The neighbors and volunteers are surrounding someone. She pushes through the crowd and sees a miracle, Abigail holding her baby. Abigail spots her, and so does Mikey. She gently puts him down and he runs to his mother. MIKEY Mommy!!! Jenny grabs him, and picks him up, she is sobbing tears of joy. Abigail is overcome with emotion and starts to weep. JENNY Oh my God Mikey! Mikey, where were, where were you? Thank you so much for bringing him back to me! Where did you find him? ABIGAIL I didn’t, Father Yahuda did. just brought him to you.

I

Sheriff Carter makes his way through the crowd. He is visibly relieved to see Mikey safe in his mothers arms. He rushes over. As he makes it through the crowd someone points to Abbie and says “She found him.” SHERIFF CARTER Jenny is he okay? Jenny nods yes, indicating he is okay. SHERIFF CARTER (CONT’D) Abbie, where did you find him?

69.

ABIGAIL The priest, the father, the new guy, he found him. He kind of found both of us. We were in the woods near the bridge by the old water tower. Anyway, he told me to bring him back to you. SHERIFF Are you OK, Abby? What were you doing out there this late at night? Does your Grandmother know where you are? ABIGAIL I was at a party and I went off with these guys... Sheriff smells liquor on her. SHERIFF CARTER Have you been drinking tonight? Abigail starts to tear up. Sheriff sighs and decides he’s not going to charge her. SHERIFF CARTER (CONT’D) Alright, alright, it looks like you’ve had a rough night. Come on I’m going to give you a ride home, I want you to tell me more about these guys. He turns to Jenny. SHERIFF CARTER (CONT’D) I’ll be back in a little bit, find James, let him know. I have a lot more questions, but need to get her home. You okay? 76

INT/EXT. SHERIFF CARTER’S CAR - NIGHT Sheriff Carter sees Jeff’s truck, stops and rolls down his window. He gets out. James sees him and gets out, comes right over. JAMES Any news? SHERIFF CARTER James, we found your son and he’s home.

76

70.

JAMES Who found him? James is full of emotions. SHERIFF CARTER This little girl right here. JAMES Thank you! Thank you for bringing him back, you’re a hero. ABIGAIL I didn’t find him. Father Yahuda did. He handed him to me, I only brought him home. JAMES What? ABIGAIL Yeah, the Father found him. SHERIFF CARTER Okay guys the search is over thanks so much for your time. You too James, go home. You’re a lucky man James. The sheriff pulls away. JAMES Did you hear what she said? EARL Yeah, the priest found him. JAMES How did the priest find him, man? EARL So what? JAMES Wait! Hear me out on this! The priest shows up one day to this town, no one knows where he came from, next thing you know he’s very nice to my wife. EARL Priests are supposed to be nice.

71.

JAMES No, not this way, I saw him a different way with her. Then my son disappears and he found him, and if he found him, why didn’t he return him home? Why did he give him to the girl? It doesn’t make sense. He’s hiding something, man. As far as I’m concerned, he can pick up our kids anytime. If it happened to my son, it can happen to your son and anyone’s son. EARL Yeah, he’s not like Father John. Yeah there’s something strange about him. JEFF We don’t know nothing about this guy. He could be one of those pedophile priests you hear about on the news... that they keep moving around from parish to parish instead of putting them in jail where they belong. Anyone that does that to a kid man deserves much worse man, especially claiming to be a man of God. JAMES I say let’s go get his confession! They all go to the pickup truck and drive to the church. 77

INT. CHURCH - NIGHT

77

Cut into church where father is washing his hands and prays. FATHER YAHUDA Father, don’t judge them. Free them from the slavery of evil. They shall not know the sins that they are doing. As priest prays, we intercut between the pickup truck driving towards the church. We hear screams from outside of church. JAMES Father! Father! Come out here!

72.

Father hears that and turns to get up. Looks out and sees James and seven of his friends outside the parking lot. JAMES (CONT’D) Come out right now! We know you’re hiding over there! Come out right now! We know what you’re up to! Sister’s looking out the church windows. SISTER MARY Why are they screaming with torches? Oh no, there’s James. I need to call Jenny right now. Sister Mary gets on the phone with Jenny. SISTER MARY (CONT’D) Jenny you have to come here right now. Your husband is outside with his friends and he’s screaming outside, you need to come get him. SISTER ABIGAIL What are you guys doing out here? EARL You call your father out right now. We need to see him. SISTER MARY There’s nothing to talk to him about. Get out of here before I call Sheriff Carter. JAMES Father, you come out here.... What? You’re man enough to try to steal my wife, but not man enough to face me? One of the guys throws a torch towards the door. Mary is struggling with a guy with a torch. He pushes her to the ground. We see two doors open and a light comes out. Father Yahuda comes out. He stomps on the fire, and puts it out. He helps Mary up. FATHER YAHUDA It’s okay Mary, go inside. SISTER MARY But Father they have-

73.

FATHER YAHUDA Don’t worry sister, no evil shall walk into the house of God. Please take the sisters and go inside. We’re just going to talk. JAMES We know all about you, what you’re up to. We know what you came to do. You think you can fool us. First you were trying to take my wife then you hide my kids. FATHER YAHUDA My son, I came here to bring good. I came here to bring the word of the Lord and take you into the light from darkness. God gave us a heart of courage and... EARL We don’t want to hear none of your words. So shut up! JAMES I want to hear em... why don’t you tell us what you doing with my son in the middle of the night? A grown man with a little boy in the middle of the woods! EARL Are you one of those perverted priests on the news? As father tries to turn around, somebody slaps him in the face. FATHER YHUDA No, my son, you do not understand. Please walk away. Regret your sins. JAMES OK, but first I want to hear your sins. Confess! What have YOU done wrong father? The men are getting worked up. Yahuda on the face.

Another one slaps Father

EARL You’re such a fake Father, a fake Father, fake Father with your stupid thick accent. (MORE)

74. EARL (CONT'D) Get out of here, get out of here, this is not your place.

JAMES Holy man or not, I know you did it, you sick man! If I find out you touched my son, you’re going need a priest to give you the last rights! They all laugh again. Father gets punched left and right as we see slow motion he falls to the ground. His eyes start bleeding, his face shattered. They punch him over and over. The nuns come out trying to save him, but the guys keep pulling them away. EARL Yeah, father you like touching little boys... how does that feel? FATHER YHUDA Please father forgive them, forgive them. Kick to his mouth to his face. Commotion of beating him up for a minute or two. We hear a van pull up. Hear a shotgun blast in the air. Everybody stops. It’s Albert Johnson with a shotgun. He loads it again. ALBERT Back off or God help me, if you’re not going to stop, I’ll blow your head off on the count of three. JAMES Stay out of this, it’s not your business. ALBERT I’m making it my business, back off. Start’s counting 1...2...3... James thinks it over. Jenny’s car pulls up and stop she’s crying, runs towards priest. James blocks her and holds her back. She screams, crying, kicks away from him goes to the priest and lifts his head up. JENNY Why? Why? You’re such an animal! Why did you do this? He saved your son! He saved your son! He found him.

75.

Sheriff car and another squad car and an ambulance pull up. Sheriff looks at scene. SHERIFF CARTER I can’t believe this, shame on all of you! Shame on all of you! Jenny’s crying. Nuns help paramedics get priest onto stretcher. Jenny gets up. Sheriff and deputies arrest James and his friends. Cuff them all. SHERIFF CARTER (CONT’D) You’re all under arrest. Looks at James. SHERIFF CARTER (CONT’D) I was always rooting for you... hoping you would change and become a better man... a better man than this... better than your father.... I give up on you...you had so much potential.. If you just stayed sober you could have been somebody! But you’re weak man, you find strength in that bottle and not in yourself.... There’s no coming back from this...If there’s any decency left in you... you better pray that he doesn’t die. The guys are loaded into the cop car. We see James turn around and look back. James sees Jenny crying. Song, montage of James getting thrown in jail, Jenny at home crying with the kids. Doris in hospital Abigail comes to see her. See nuns praying next to hospital bed while they take care of father. Jenny packs bags and takes the kids and move out. 78

INT. SHERIFFS OFFICE - NIGHT

78

SHERIFF James your very lucky, no one wants to press charges. But I am booking you for public intoxication and beating up a priest. Music ends. CUT TO:

76.

79

EXT/INT. ALBERT JOHNSON'S HOUSE - NIGHT Albert is walking up to his house, and in the front door. He see’s the damage from outside, and he sprints inside. ALBERT Ruth? Ruth? Ruth? Ruth walks up behind him.

Completely free of pain.

RUTH Albert! ALBERT Ruth, what’s going on Ruth? RUTH I never realized how tall you are. Look at you Albert, you still so handsome. ALBERT What happened in the house Ruth? Why are the windows broken? RUTH It’s OK, Albert... it’s just things... just things. ALBERT Ruth... Ruth...How do you? Albert walks backwards in total shock. ALBERT (CONT’D) Your walking? Ruth your walking! Ruth? RUTH I am walking Albert! ALBERT How...How do you walk Ruth? RUTH I don’t know Albert, I don’t know... They hug each other camera pulls out.

79

77.

80

INT. CHURCH - DAY

80

One month later. We hear church bells ring. James is released from jail. We hear words of God go back and forth between james drinking at bar and priest perching. FATHER YAHUDA God gave us this earth to live on. God created the world in seven days and he commanded on the rest of the days all the miracle that we know as the earth. And he created a man named Adam and from his flesh he created a woman called Eve. These people knew only good, no harm, no evil and they knew good which God gave them paradise and he knew from those two would create a great nation and bring faith and continue the work of God because we were created by his image and his image is good for us. One day, evil came upon the woman and tempted her to taste knowledge and she tasted the knowledge and angels came upon the earth and asked them to leave this paradise. Man shall work hard for the rest of his life by sweat and women should have pain during child birth. And then he appeared to us because he loves his creation and gave them good, but evil was born as well. God has a place for evil. He forgives, he gives, he shares. I wish all upon you that God would give you miracles what we call life. And time is an illusion. Everyone have a lovely day. Thank you for coming. God be upon you and send you good health and life. Father finishes service. Everyone gets out and goes into parking lot. James, completely drunk, is in the parking lot waiting for Jenny. JAMES Hey Jenny, hi kids. How are you? Jenny ignores him. All people are watching him to see if there’s anything wrong with him.

78.

JAMES (CONT’D) I’m sorry Jenny, I didn’t mean it. I love you. You know we had a great life....Hey kids, how about we go shopping, you want to play baseball? She ignores him. Kids are scared. He goes after her and grabs her. Sheriff carter shows up. SHERIFF CARTER There's a problem here? JENNY If you come near us again, I will get a restraining order. “Don't make me do things I don't want to do.” Sheriff James, I can put you right back in jail, you want that? No more trouble, James. No more. Jenny is loading the kids in the car, as James speaks. JAMES You think you better then me? They’re my kids too. I have rights Jenny. You thing the cops scare me...you should know better. The kids are looking at him as they pull away. JAMES (CONT’D) Daddy always loves you, remember that... SHERIFF CARTER James, leave them be. They've been through enough. JAMES Yeah sure... sure, whatever you say your the law, you do whatever you want. He leaves. CUT TO:

79.

81

INT. HOSPITAL - DAY

81

Doris is unconscious, she is hooked up to both I.V’s And oxygen. Camera is on her, and we hear a voice. We see a hand rubbing Doris’s arm. ABIGAIL Grandma, I know you will rest better knowing your house is clean. I did it, Teddy helped. We have it worked out grandma, he and I. I am taking good care of him for you. Last night we made a cake together. You know he loves chocolate. I let him lick the bowl, just like you do. I watered your plants, again. Teddy helped. He knows exactly how much each one should get, he’s teaching me. I know I was hard, but it was me, not you. I was mad, mad for a long time, mad my mom died, and I took it out on you. Can you please forgive me? You didn't deserve that. I love you grandma. I just need one more chance before you go to tell you I’m sorry. A nurse walks in. Hi, honey.

NURSE #2 How is she? ABIGAIL

The same. NURSE #2 Visiting hours are over in a few minutes. ABIGAIL Okay, I would like to read to her before I leave. NURSE #2 Okay, you have a few minutes. Abigail picks up a worn Bible and begin to read to her grandma. Abigail reads a few versus, cover her up and then leaves. She walks out and Father Yahuda walks in. He sits next Doris and just looks at her. He touches her arm, the speaks to her in a whisper.

80.

FATHER YHUDA Don't be afraid. Takes water runs it over her lips and eyes. FATHER YAHUDA He who knows the truth shall come close to God. Your granddaughter loves you, she means no harm, she loves you. 82

INT. CORNER PUB - NIGHT

82

James is drinking. He has empty bottles in front of him. He’s been there a while. He stands up and walks outside. He begins to sing. JAMES Tomorrow, Tomorrow, I’ll love you tomorrow, you’re only a day away. Two teenage boys are observing him.

They are amused.

TEEN 1 Look at this bird singing like that. JAMES What? What did you call me... a bird? Tell you what rat... if you come over here I’ll show you what is a bird. TEEN 1 What did you call me? a rat? JAMES Yeah, you’re a little rat. TEEN 2 Bad choice of words, old man. Fight elevates they trade punches back and forth. James ends up on the ground both teens punching and kicking him. The owner of the bar hears the commotions and comes outside. BAR OWNER Hey, what are you guys doing? What are guy guys doing get out of here. Guys run away. We see James on the floor. the owner of the bar helps him get up.

81.

BAR OWNER (CONT’D) Hey, you alright? JAMES Yeah, I’m fine just a couple of bruises. They’re lucky I didn’t beat em up so bad. BAR OWNER Yeah...I’m sure they’re real lucky...You sure you OK, do you want me to call you a cab or ambulance? JAMES Yeah, I’m fine. James gets into his car. He’s bleeding from his eyes, his face is swollen. He pulls a cigarette out pulls to the back of the car pulls up a bottle of whisky, drinks from it, looks in the mirror. He is beat up very bad. He starts the car and drive onto an empty highway. He’s drunk and can barely drive. Suddenly smoke comes out of the engine. He pulls over and gets out. He pops the hood but has no idea what’s wrong. He sees a car pass, and tries to flag them down. The don’t stop. He’s unsteady on his feet, the effects of both the alcohol and the fight. He goes back to the car, and looks at the engine again. He hears a car coming and in an attempt to flag it down, he steps into the road. He step in front of the car, and they hit him, throwing him to the side of the road. The car keep going. He lies there struggling to breathe. He tries to crawl back to his car, he is hurt badly, he is have more trouble breathing, and bleeding from his mouth. Exhausted, he stops crawling. He begins to weep. Another car passes, James lifts his arm but the driver doesn’t see him and keep going. He believes he is dying, he rolls over to his back, and looks at the sky and the stars. JAMES (CONT’D) That’s what you want?... You got me... He sees a shadow cover his face. CUT TO:

82.

83

INT. CHURCH - DAY

83

James is waking up, his vision is blurry. and tries to sit up.

He opens his eyes

JAMES Where am I? He crashes back into bed, hears the word of God. FATHER YAHUDA And God shall guide the Shepard into goodness and good and he will show him the way of freedom. JAMES falls asleep in and out of consciousness but keeps hearing the word of God see a person bring him up give him food and water. This continues for a few days. On the third day, he wakes up. He sees he in a peaceful place. He hears birds chirping. He sees who has been taking care of him, it’s Father Yahuda. FATHER YAHUDA (CONT’D) Good morning! I brought you some orange juice. It will make you strong. How are you feeling today? JAMES Better, I guess.

Where am I?

FATHER YAHUDA You’re resting. JAMES What happened to me? FATHER YHUDA You didn’t feel well. 84

INT. CHURCH KITCHEN - DAY

84

SISTER CAROLINE How could he help him, how could he help him after all he did to Jenny? SISTER JOSEPHINA Not to mention what he did to him... CUT TO:

83.

85

INT. CHURCH - DAY

85

FATHER YHUDA Would you like to try to walk? Come, let me help you. He tries to stand, but is too weak. FATHER YAHUDA Try again. James looks at him, pauses, then tries to stand again. can’t.

He

JAMES I can’t. He lays back in bed, tearing up. JAMES (CONT’D) I don’t want to do it. FATHER YHUDA Not to worry... There’s always tomorrow, there’s always tomorrow. Montage of scenes. Sees parents coming to him in his dreams calling him a looser. JAMES MOTHER You looser You’re never worth anything since you were a child all you were was a failure. JAMES Mom? Mom? JAMES FATHER Well you know your Mom never wanted you Both laughing. James tears up. JAMES MOTHER Yeah, we had you on the back of a truck. Go get me cigarettes. Priest keeps sitting next to him and keeps repeating the words of God and the ten commandments, keeps reading to him. Helps him to walk a little more and a little more. He keeps falling, he lifts him up. Preaching giving food, drink keeps reading the bible to him.

84.

FATHER YAHUDA And he shall show them the truth and goodness until he guides them to the holy land. James is walking and getting stronger. JAMES(VERY EMOTIONAL) I feel ashamed, I have no words. Why are you are you helping me, Father? FATHER YHUDA God gave us love. He created us with love. Hate comes as we are born into society. God gave us the freedom, created us with pure love... as we are born into society we developed different opinions which took us to a dark place where we loose faith and hope in God. But God never loose hope in people. Hurting somebody is the weakness of a human being. Expressing yourself is the love that we born with. God created man in his own image. When you hurt, he cries. When you have pain, he feels it. When you cry, he hurts. When you pray, he listens. James is very emotional, he’s embarrassed. Music plays inspirational music. We see how the priest teaches him the word of God and he listens to him, reads the Bible and asks questions. JAMES(BURSTS WITH TEARS) All my life I grew up by myself. My dad was a truck driver so he was on the road all the time and my mom was a waitress. I remember sometimes she forgot to make me lunch after school so I had to wait till night time for her to come home and cook for me and she always came back drunk. I barely saw my dad, and when I did, he would hit me. We never went anywhere. On the holidays they used to go away together and just left me there by myself. I was alone all the time. The only time I heard the word love was when my mom was drunk. (MORE)

85. JAMES(BURSTS WITH TEARS) (CONT'D) She used to say said you know James, you are an accident you weren’t supposed to come into the world, but I love you. She used to drink so she would drop on the floor. I grew up hanging out with the wrong people and doing the wrong things. Nobody ever love me.

84

Over Amazing Grace Song, montage of priest teaching him 84 bible preaching and teaching, walks with him in the field, he’s a different man... nuns look at this. Walking into the distance see a sunrise.

86

INT. HOSPITAL - DAY

86

Close up of doctor checking x-ray. He seems very surprised. He turns and says DOCTOR GREENE That’s impossible See Dr. James walk past the door. DOCTOR JAMES Dr. Greene don’t forget we have a meeting with the surgeon today it’s going to be at 3:00. DR. GREENE Dr. James come here for a second. Can you look at this x-ray? Do you see anything? DR. JAMES It looks good and healthy. DR. GREENE You don’t see a tumor? DR. JAMES No, no It looks clean to me. 87

INT. DAY. HOSPITAL Open with a close up on Doris face. She hears Abigail praying for her. She focus for a moment, making sense of where she is. She sees Abbie reading. DORIS What are you reading dear?

87

86.

ABIGAIL Grandma! You are awake. Abigail jumps up and hugs Doris. ABIGAIL (CONT’D) I love you grandma. DORIS I love you too honey. Let’s get out of here. Please bring me my cloths. Let’s go home. Go home?

ABIGAIL How-

DORIS Yes, lets go homeAbigail brings Doris her cloths. Doris changes. Nurse comes in. NURSE What are you doing? When did she wake up? I need to call the doctor. Mrs. Miller, please lie down. DORIS I think I have rested enough, thank you. I am going home now... The nurse pages picks up the phone in the room, and pages the doctor. They’re about to walk out. Doctor comes in. DOCTOR Doris where are you going? You are not ready to leave. I have to do more tests to make sure. The tumor isn’t showing up on your last xray. It just doesn’t make sense here. DORIS I’m sorry doctor, I don’t want any more tests. I feel like I was just born again. I feel like... apple pie.. That’s what I feel like. Let’s go honey. DOCTOR Doris, I can’t advise you that you are medically ready for release, you have been unconscious for days.

87.

DORIS Well, I am awake now, and leaving. DOCTOR I also can’t stop you... They leave the hospital and go outside. DORIS This is a beautiful day, I am hungry. Maybe a meal before desert? Abigail is in shock. Doris is walking like she is 20 years younger. She is pain free, and full of life. ABIGAIL Grandma what happened? How are you okay? I just want to say... DORIS It’s alright... I know I heard it all. I’m happy that your here. Thank you for taking care of Teddy, he needs us. I’m proud of you...now lets go eat my dear. 88

EXT/INT. ALBERT’S HOUSE - DAY Abbie and Doris are in a car. Abbie is driving. Alberts house, and stop to say hello. Ruth answers the door. there.

88 They pass

She is shocked to see Doris standing

RUTH Doris, Abbie. How on God’s earth? Look at you, you look great... how you doing? DORIS I feel wonderful... looks like someone up there wants me around for a while. Look at you, are you walking? Are you guys planning another honeymoon? Ruth has clothes laid out. Ruth is wearing a white dress. RUTH Look at what Albert bought me for our anniversary... he knows I love white dresses.

88.

DORIS It’s lovely and you look wonderful in it! RUTH Come sit on the porch I just made a pitcher of tea. Albert hears the ladies and comes into the room. He smiles, he can’t believe that Doris and Ruth are so healthy. ALBERT Ladies, did I hear that wanted some fresh lemon tea? Let me bring it, you girls go sit in the sunshine. They all go outside on the porch and drink tea and talk. Albert serves tea. Abigail checks her watch. ABIGAIL Grandma, I have to go. Teddy will be back from the Day Program. Can you walk home? DORIS I’d love to walk home. Abigail walks away and turns and smiles. phone call before she gets in her car.

She stops to make a

RUTH She’s beautiful DORIS I know....As long as I live I’m happy I’ve got her. She told me on the way over here that she wants to go to nursing school. RUTH Really? DORIS That’s what she said. RUTH A nurse that’s a really good profession... I always wanted to be a fashion designer. I always had the magic for clothing. Maybe I should move to Miami and become a fashion designer.

89.

ALBERT. Here we go ladies... tea is on. Here you go, one sugar for you honey. Where’s Abbie going? DORIS She’s going to pick up Teddy. ALBERT Good for her. That must make your heart happy. DORIS Does it ever. RUTH Albert, you know I like two sugars. ALBERT It’s not good for you... you know that. RUTH Albert, I can handle it. ALBERT Okay, here you have two sugars. RUTH Did you know I made my first dress when I was 11 years old... my mother gave me a a sewing machine and I made my first dress... Albert excuses himself, and goes over to Abbie. He has Abigail’s purse in his hands. He gives her the purse. I believe this belongs to you... you left it here a few weeks ago when you were here with your friends. They look at the fence were the kids did the graffiti. ABIGAIL Oh, oh no... I’m so embarrassed. I’m so sorry about that. ALBERT That’s okay, I forgive you... it will be our secret... That’s a good excuse finally now I can paint it. They both have a good laugh.

90.

ABIGAIL Me and Teddy will help you..... Abbie looks at the fence again... ABIGIAL That all seems so distant now... like a whole other lifetime ago. ALBERT Well, you’ve grown up a lot in short time. You’re a good girl Abbie, you’ve got a bright future ahead of you if you. You look like your mom, and she would be proud of you. She used to walk past my house every morning. She was so pretty like you. They can hear Doris calling in the background. ABIGAIL I have to go, thanks Albert. ALBERT Your welcome young lady... 89

INT. JENNY’S MOTHER’S HOUSE - DAY

89

Jenny's mother, CINDY MARSHALL, (50’S) answers the door. . CINDY MARSHALL I’m coming, I’m coming.. Keeps knocking. CINDY MARSHALL (CONT’D) (She sighs) I’m telling you no one is patient in this day and age... She walks to the door and opens it. James is standing there. He is clean shaven and dressed in a suit. He has a bible in his hand. She doesn’t recognize him right away. CINDY MARSHALL (CONT’D) Yes may I help you?... Oh Lord, James... is that you? How drunk are you now? JAMES Good evening Mrs. Marshall. I came to see Jenny.

91.

CINDY MARSHALL Now listen James I don’t want any problems here. Not in my house, I won’s stand for it. JAMES I just want to talk, I’m clean and sober. I just want to talk to her. Cindy pause for a minute, considering what to do. CINDY MARSHALL You promise to behave? JAMES Yes, ma’am. You have my word. CINDY MARSHALL Let me ask her if she wants to talk to you, wait here. She goes inside. 90

James waits.

INT. CINDY MARSHALL’S HOUSE- DAY- CONTINUOUS CINDY MARSHALL Jenny, James is outside. He says he wants to talk to you. JENNY Tell him that I don’t want to talk to him. Mama, you know that. CINDY MARSHALL I never thought I would say this, but he looks like a changed man. I know what he did was wrong, but he’s said he’s sober and seems like he’s cleaned himself up. JENNY I said tell him I don’t want to talk to him. Jenny’s Mother goes back to the door CINDY MARSHALL I’m sorry James she doesn’t want to talk to you. JAMES You tell her that I’m really sorry for everything. (MORE)

90

92. JAMES (CONT'D) I’d love to see her in church. I’ll be there Sunday. And please... please tell the kids I love them and that I miss them very much.... Here.

He pulls out a wad of cash and hands it to her. JAMES (CONT’D) It’s not much, but please tell her to use this to buy them whatever they need. I’m still their father...tell her there’s more on the way. I know I’ve made a lot of mistakes. Half of them I can’t even remember because I was drunk..... but all that’s over now. I want to start making up for all that. CINDY MARSHALL(SHOCKED) Okay, James. I hope you’re being sincere. I’ll tell her. See James walking down main street across town by the corner pub. People looking at him in shock, he’s a changed man. Sheriff Carter passes, and does a double take.. They exchange friendly smiles. 91

INT. CHURCH - NIGHT Sister Mary walks into the common area, shes excited and approaches Sister Abigial and Josephina. SISTER MARY Good news, the hospital called and Father John he’s improving. He woke up. He’s awake. He will be coming home soon... SISTER ABIGAIL Oh, that’s wonderful, I miss Father John. SISTER JOSEPHINA It’s a miracle, oh its a miracle. We have all prayed and missed him so much. SISTER ABIGAIL Have you told Father Yahuda? SISTER MARY Not yet, I just got the call.

91

93.

SISTER JOSEPHINA I think he and Father John will get along well, they are both such good men. SISTER MARY I am not sure he will stay, once Father John returns. Remember sisters, his commitment was to fill in for Father John, he is probably needed elsewhere. SISTER JOSEPHINA I hope he stays, this town has grown attached to him. Montage over music. Father Yahuda working. Sister Mary is taking photos, and takes one of Father Yahuda. We see James sitting on his bed, holding a picture of his wife and kids, then falling asleep holding the photo. 92

INT. CHURCH - DAY

92

Close up of church bells ringing. The church is packed. The all gathered for mass. We see Father Yahuda enter with precession and choir. The ceremony begins. Father Yahuda goes up to announce James as the guest speaker. FATHER YAHUDA Jesus talked about forgiveness. In the spirit of forgiveness, I would like to offer my forgiveness, and would like you to listen to the words of one of your own town sons. Please welcome James Cleveland to address you this morning. The crowd whispers and watches as James walks up to the podium to talk. JAMES God gave us an opportunity God gave us a vision. He gave us a choice in life. I’ve made a lot of wrong choices and I come before you today to say I’m sorry. I want to offer my confession and ask for your forgiveness. For most of my life I got my strength from picking up a bottle, when I should have been picking up a Bible. Low commotion among the crowd.

94.

CHURCH GOER 1 What is he doing here? CHURCH GOER 2 I didn't come to Mass to listen to him speak. CHURCH GOER 3 We should leave. Jenny and her kids are seated in the back. Some people get up to leave, don't want to hear James speak. Priest stands up. FATHER YAHUDA You all call yourselves Christians! You profess to love the Lord. Yet when one of your own town’s sons asks for forgiveness you turn your backs and will not hear him. CHURCH GOER 1 YELLS OUT Come on father this is the same guy who beat you! FATHER YAHUDA That may be so, but I forgive him as Pope John Paul forgave the man who shot him. I forgive as it says to do in the Bible. You’re supposed to turn the other cheek, not your back! Doesn’t the Lord allow for forgiveness of sins? God created each of us, God loves each of us! We should have a place in our heart to forgive each other. We should have a place in our heart to love and forgive and find compassion for each other... And the belief that no man... no man is beyond redemption if he sees the error of his ways and is willing to go before God and his fellow man and confess and repent. God works in mysterious ways to find compassion for each one of us. No man should judge another man by his race or by color. We are born to this world and have chance to do good things for each other... to help each other to improve each otter not to hate each other or to judge by where they are from or their skin color. (MORE)

95. FATHER YAHUDA (CONT'D) Life is a journey that we have to help each other on. We have to accept each other. If more people are angry with each other then we will never be at peace with ourselves. If we learn to forgive open up to the opportunity to understand that he wants to be loved... We all want to be loved. We will all change and live in a peaceful world. If you are true Christians, if you love the lord, the please come back and hear what James has to say.

All the members come back and sit. James continues. JAMES I didn’t come here today to ask your forgiveness, I came here to beg your forgiveness. I know I did some bad things I know I treated people bad and the most important thing is... I hurt my family, my wife and children the most. I sought comfort in the darkness... finding my strength in a bottle. I had to hit rock bottom and I wanted to die. Something changed and I can’t explain it, I heard the word and I was saved. Today I’m standing here in the house of God as living proof to the truth. My heart came from darkness to the light. And if you give a man an opportunity he can change. James kneels, the choir starts singing amazing grace. JAMES (CONT’D) God Lord Jesus Christ please forgive me. Please let these good people forgive me. God forgive me for all the people that I wronged in my path, when I was too blind to show my heart. God forgive me that I treated my family bad. God Jesus lord, forgive me for not seeing your true ways. God please I ask one more thing. Please bring my family back to me. Slowly each member of the church goes over and puts their hand on James shoulder saying “I forgive you”.

96.

Camera pans out to see a whole line of people waiting to go up to forgive him. The service ends. James sitting in the front row. Father sits down next to him. FATHER YAHUDA I’m proud of you James, you’re a changed man. You’ve changed your heart and your destiny. You can lead this church and this town and bring a lot of spirit. Your words shall bring wisdom to other people. Father Yahuda touches his shoulder. James looks up at him. The priest is outlined in light. JAMES Thank you father! Thank you! FATHER YAHUDA I just showed you the path and shared with you the word. You made the choice to listen and chose to walk again down this path. Keep going! The path of salvation is now clear to you. It’s up to you now to continue walking... my son. Father walks away we see Jenny come in. Jenny comes in and sits at the other side of the bench. JENNY You look good. JAMES Thank you for coming today, it’s great to see you and the kids again! JENNY I don’t know what this is James but I hope it isn’t a game. I’m too old for all that. You come back and keep drinking and then do it again do you understand. I can’t do it anymore. JAMES I’m not expecting you to take me back. If this is the Lord’s way, then we should be apart. I shall live by the faith of the lord. I just really miss you and the kids.

97.

JENNY Look, my mom is outside we’re going last minute Christmas shopping. She hates to wait. I’m happy to see you. We still need some help with the tree. So if you’re around maybe you can stop in and help us decorate. She gets up and starts walking away. Looks up and the cross, then turns around. The camera pulls out as he walks with Jenny out of the church and into the light then see the cross. Music keeps playing. We see him reunited with the kids and the family enjoying a picnic lunch outside the church. Father Yahuda walks out from the church. Teddy is sitting alone on a bench. Father Yahuda goes over to him. Teddy once again speaks with clarity. TEDDY Your leaving? Christmas is next week. Can you stay? Father Yehuda just nods TEDDY (CONT’D) Thank you Father, the world will change. The time has come. Please have mercy on us, the time of revolutions is upon us. Please have Mercy on us... FATHER YAHUDA Bless you my Angel... Go into montage from house to house of Christmas, Jenny’s house, Doris, Ruth. 93

INT. CHURCH - MORNING

93

Next morning. Father John is at the church door. From inside Sister mary hears a loud knock. From inside she hears talking outside and fighting with the lock. FATHER JOHN Why isn’t this opening? This lock is still broken? I can’t believe this lock is still broken!

98.

SISTER MARY Who’s there? FATHER JOHN Sister Mary are you there? It’s me Father John. Sister Mary opens the door and sees Father John. SISTER MARY Welcome home Father! They let you come home for Christmas! So good to see you! You look great! We didn’t expect you so soon. FATHER JOHN I would never miss this holiday sister. For forty years Christmas mass always makes me feel alive. It’s great to be back! Walks to the chapel. and are excited.

Sister Caroline and Josephina see him

SISTER JOSEPHINA Father, welcome home! Merry Christmas! We prayed for your return. SISTER CAROLINE The whole town prayed... SISTER MARY So did Father Yahuda. The replacement priest the Diocese sent. FATHER JOHN Father Yahuda, I don't understand. Where is he now? SISTER JOSEPHINA Probably in his room. SISTER CAROLINE Or maybe in the garden. FATHER JOHN Can you sisters please go find him. SISTER CAROLINE/SISTER JOSEPHINA Yes Father. They leave.

99.

FATHER JOHN I’m sorry sister. It was a long drive... did you just say replacement? What do you mean replacement? I came so quickly home, because when I woke, I spoke to the diocese, and they apologized for not being able to provide a priest to cover for me. I thought you were without a priest. He immediately notices a repair. FATHER JOHN (CONT’D) Who did all this wood work? The place looks great. SISTER MARY Father Yahuda. Sisters Caroline and Josephina return. SISTER JOSEPHINA His room is empty, his bags are gone. SISTER CAROLINE He’s gone. Father John picks up a phone. FATHER JOHN Merry Christmas! Father Joseph, this is Father John again. Yes thanks you I have made it home. That’s why I am calling. My sisters said you that a Father Yahuda was here in my absence. He left before I arrived. He did a wonderful job, and I would like the chance to thank him personally, do you know where I might find him? He pauses. FATHER JOHN (CONT’D) I’m confused. They are sure he was here. No Priest by that name? What? Let me call you back... He hangs up. She looks confused.

100.

SISTER MARY No one sent a replacement? Then who? What? FATHER JOHN Check the church again... They get the other sisters and search the whole church. They go to look for him in the priest room. They find it completely empty, no evidence that he’s stayed there. SISTER MARY Where did he go? SISTER ABIGAIL I don’t understand it? He was here yesterday, where did he go? FATHER JOHN What does he look like? SISTER MARY Well he was from the holy land... had long hair a beard dark skin. He was... wait hold on I have pictures of him hold on Ill show you... Goes in and grabs a photo album and brings it back to Father John. Hands it to him. Father John flips through several pages. SISTER MARY (CONT’D) Here, look. FATHER JOHN Here...? Where? There’s no one here sister. Sisters flip through the album in disbelief. There are only flashes of light where father John should be. One of them sits down and starts crying. SISTER MARY I don't understand... he was here. Thinks back to a Montague of all the clues of people appearing to talk to no one throughout the movie. SISTER ABIGAIL Father, could he have been an angel?

101.

SISTER MARY Wait. Wait, Father come. Look, he was here, I know... They all rush to the dining room where they find 12 finely carved wooden chairs, the only physical evidence that he was there. FATHER JOHN He must have been some carpenter! 94

INT. CHURCH - DAY

94

Church is fully decorated for Christmas. Open with Choir singing Silent night (Christmas Song). Sunday Mass. We see a big banner saying welcome back Father John. FATHER JOHN Merry Christmas to you all! I want to say thank you very much. It was a very nice welcome home from all of you. Christmas is the season of miracles... and I heard about the miracles that happened while I was out in the hospital. A man came to our church and brought these wonderful changes. Sister Mary has shared with me all the events that took place in my absence. In the book of revelation, it speaks about Jesus’s return to earth to be among us to bring back faith and miracles because we’ve lost them. We are too busy with technology... we are too busy with reading about the next movie star or rap stars who are promoting bad language and violence. Half of our kids don’t even know what’s the meaning of Christmas and why we celebrate Christmas they think it’s all gift sharing and the meaning gets lost... they are too busy playing video games, religion seems invisible. But I heard about that man who came to our place... who came from no where....and my eyes are tearing and my heart is yearning to see that miracle that exists.... Jesus has risen and he is still alive. (MORE)

102. FATHER JOHN (CONT'D) He lives in our hearts because through love, compassion, the meaning of true love, love for each other which is enuring and unconditional... about the golden rule and by treating others as we would like to be treated....and by following his teachings we keep him alive! Where will he go next?... Maybe to your town... But will you recognized him when he arrives?

Closing montage over music. James son runs up to him and says “Merry Christmas, I love you Daddy!” We see all the main characters celebrating and talking with each other. At end come back to the chairs. The chairs are the only solid evidence left that he was there. 95

EXT. DESERT - DAY

95

We see Father Yahuda walking in the desert to the next town. THE END