EXT. POULTRY PLANT - DAY
In the sea of identical boxy warehouses, a boxy truck reads,
"Sunshine Poultry."
Lung's black SUV parks by the truck.
INT. POULTRY PLANT
SQUACK SQUACK!
Chicken cages line the floor. Chicken blood and feces cover
workers.
Other workers cover their faces with masks and their own
hands.
Lung enters through a door. He appears unaffected by the
stench and the sound.
Lung's fancy Italian shoes stomp through chicken feathers
covering the floor.
Workers clear out in front of Lung.
Lung opens a heavy metal door and enters...
THE FREEZER
Buckets of what must be chicken guts, boxes of chicken, and
blood splattered cases fill a walk-in freezer.
Lung moves a bloody box on a bloody shelf, revealing a
camera.
The WHIRR of machinery rumbles as a wall slides open into
a...
RECEPTION OFFICE
A heavy steel piston moves a thick steel door. This could
probably stop a missle.
White fog pours from around the door.
Lung strides through the door and into the office.
Waiting in the office are a number of intimidated looking
workers and...
CHAVEZ
30s, a weaselly Latino.
CHAVEZ
Bossman! So, nice to see you.
No one looks like they're feeling nice.
Lung is expressionless.
CHAVEZ
Come with me, I have so much to
show you.
NURSERY
Irrigation pipes drip water into hundreds of buckets lined
into rows. Each bucket contains a small, green plant.
Florescent bulbs shower the plants with light.
CHAVEZ
As you can see, our facility is
quite a success. 24 hour sun,
climate control.
Lung stops and looks at a thermometer on the wall.
The thermometer reads 88 degrees.
Chavez leads Lung past ventilation pipes.
Buckets now contain 3 foot tall marijuana plants.
CHAVEZ
Crops grow at an impressive rate.
After 60 days, we can harvest.
Lung and Chavez now stand in a jungle of a room filled with 7
foot tall plants.
CHAVEZ
As you can see, we're doing a good
job.
Chavez cracks a smile.
Lung walks towards a door. Over his shoulder, Lung motions
"follow me" with a single finger.
Lung opens the door and enters.
Chavez follows.
CHAVEZ
If you have any questions, I can
answer them, or suggestions, or
anything of that matter.
The door closes behind Chavez.
POW!
Lung's fist drops Chavez to the concrete floor.
LUNG
What the fuck do you think you're
doing?
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
new script beginning
EXT. CITY OF COMMERCE - NIGHT
An dark, endless sea of boxy warehouses and boxy trucks.
Three sleek BMWs slink though the boxy maze.
Headlights reveal a man standing alone.
DAI LO
In his sixties, the devil in an Armani suit.
A briefcase is at Dai Lo's feet.
BMWs stop in a line, keeping Dai Lo well lit.
Bodyguards leap from the BMWs.
A bodyguard surveys the area.
A bodyguard opens a back seat door on a BMW. Out steps...
HARVEY GLASS
Sixties, looks like he could afford anything he wants.
Other gangsters and bodyguards join Harvey.
HARVEY
We're here. We're listening.
DAI LO
Welcome, everybody. Today is the
day we celebrate your retirement.
Harvey snaps his fingers.
Bodyguards reach inside their jackets.
DAI LO
I welcome you to a new life of
relaxation, far from your stressful
operations, and with the blessings
of wealth.
HARVEY
If you think you're buying us out,
you need to stop smoking your
merchandise.
Harvey turns away from Dai Lo.
A bodyguard draws a shotgun from under his coat.
CRACK!
The bodyguard's head erupts in a fountain of blood. His
corpse thuds on the asphalt.
Harvey freezes.
WAREHOUSE ROOFTOP
Half a mile from the line of BMWs, a dark figure sits and
holds a sniper rifle. The figure is
LUNG
30, Dai Lo's son, physically imposing, everyone's real polite
to him.
Lung's lips crack a smile around a cigar.
LINE OF BMWS
Chaos and confusion.
Harvey hides behind a BMW.
HARVEY
Sniper!
Two bodyguards draw guns and scan the rooftops.
CRACK! CRACK!
Blood sprays over the BMWS.
WAREHOUSE ROOFTOP
Lung holds his cigar with one hand and his gun with the
other.
LUNG
Nice shot. Don't be saying that
your big bro doesn't share.
Several yards away, a woman in black smirks...
JESSICA
Lung's sister, the girl your mom warned you about.
Lung pulls the trigger. bang
LINE OF BMWS
CRACK!
A spray of blood.
Another body hits the asphalt.
The eyes of two bodyguards darts about.
Suddenly, the two bodyguards run away, to the edge of the
shadows.
Mists of red rise from the two men's heads and they fall.
DAI LO
Perhaps you should reconsider my
offer.
Harvey pulls out his cellphone.
WAREHOUSE ROOFTOP
Through the scope, the reflection of Harvey's cellphone is
seen on the side mirror.
LUNG
Mine
Lung sets down his cigar. Lung lays prone with his eye to
the rifle scope.
A green tipped bullet slides into the chamber.
Lung's fingers curl around the rifle.
LINE OF BMWS
Harvey, hiding behind a BMW, holds his cellphone in a shaking
hand.
The cellphone reads, "Connecting."
PING!
The cellphone and Harvey's hand explode in a shower of blood
and silicon.
Harvey curls into a ball around his hand.
A perfect hole extends through the BMW.
WAREHOUSE ROOFTOP
Lung smiles from ear to ear.
LINE OF BMWS
Harvey winces on the ground.
HARVEY
Stop.
DAI LO
Excuse me?
HARVEY
You win, you win.
Dai Lo holds up his hand.
WAREHOUSE ROOFTOP
Still holding his gun at the ready, Lung sits up.
Lung picks up his cigar.
Lung puts his eye to the scope and watches Dai Lo, Harvey,
and the others.
Lung yawns. Lung takes a puff from his cigar.
An dark, endless sea of boxy warehouses and boxy trucks.
Three sleek BMWs slink though the boxy maze.
Headlights reveal a man standing alone.
DAI LO
In his sixties, the devil in an Armani suit.
A briefcase is at Dai Lo's feet.
BMWs stop in a line, keeping Dai Lo well lit.
Bodyguards leap from the BMWs.
A bodyguard surveys the area.
A bodyguard opens a back seat door on a BMW. Out steps...
HARVEY GLASS
Sixties, looks like he could afford anything he wants.
Other gangsters and bodyguards join Harvey.
HARVEY
We're here. We're listening.
DAI LO
Welcome, everybody. Today is the
day we celebrate your retirement.
Harvey snaps his fingers.
Bodyguards reach inside their jackets.
DAI LO
I welcome you to a new life of
relaxation, far from your stressful
operations, and with the blessings
of wealth.
HARVEY
If you think you're buying us out,
you need to stop smoking your
merchandise.
Harvey turns away from Dai Lo.
A bodyguard draws a shotgun from under his coat.
CRACK!
The bodyguard's head erupts in a fountain of blood. His
corpse thuds on the asphalt.
Harvey freezes.
WAREHOUSE ROOFTOP
Half a mile from the line of BMWs, a dark figure sits and
holds a sniper rifle. The figure is
LUNG
30, Dai Lo's son, physically imposing, everyone's real polite
to him.
Lung's lips crack a smile around a cigar.
LINE OF BMWS
Chaos and confusion.
Harvey hides behind a BMW.
HARVEY
Sniper!
Two bodyguards draw guns and scan the rooftops.
CRACK! CRACK!
Blood sprays over the BMWS.
WAREHOUSE ROOFTOP
Lung holds his cigar with one hand and his gun with the
other.
LUNG
Nice shot. Don't be saying that
your big bro doesn't share.
Several yards away, a woman in black smirks...
JESSICA
Lung's sister, the girl your mom warned you about.
Lung pulls the trigger. bang
LINE OF BMWS
CRACK!
A spray of blood.
Another body hits the asphalt.
The eyes of two bodyguards darts about.
Suddenly, the two bodyguards run away, to the edge of the
shadows.
Mists of red rise from the two men's heads and they fall.
DAI LO
Perhaps you should reconsider my
offer.
Harvey pulls out his cellphone.
WAREHOUSE ROOFTOP
Through the scope, the reflection of Harvey's cellphone is
seen on the side mirror.
LUNG
Mine
Lung sets down his cigar. Lung lays prone with his eye to
the rifle scope.
A green tipped bullet slides into the chamber.
Lung's fingers curl around the rifle.
LINE OF BMWS
Harvey, hiding behind a BMW, holds his cellphone in a shaking
hand.
The cellphone reads, "Connecting."
PING!
The cellphone and Harvey's hand explode in a shower of blood
and silicon.
Harvey curls into a ball around his hand.
A perfect hole extends through the BMW.
WAREHOUSE ROOFTOP
Lung smiles from ear to ear.
LINE OF BMWS
Harvey winces on the ground.
HARVEY
Stop.
DAI LO
Excuse me?
HARVEY
You win, you win.
Dai Lo holds up his hand.
WAREHOUSE ROOFTOP
Still holding his gun at the ready, Lung sits up.
Lung picks up his cigar.
Lung puts his eye to the scope and watches Dai Lo, Harvey,
and the others.
Lung yawns. Lung takes a puff from his cigar.
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Playaz - My Brother Robbie - Act 2 and 3
EXT. RUCKER PARK - MOMENTS LATER
Pablo looks shocked, but Robbie smiles.
ROBBIE
Trust me, little brother, I know
what I'm doing.
Robbie starts walking off the court. Pablo stays in the
middle of the court.
A few players walk up to Robbie.
Robbie and the players talk for a few seconds.
Robbie turns back to Pablo and tosses him a basketball.
ROBBIE
Alright, we got another game.
Pablo dribbles the ball with a confused look.
PABLO
But...
ROBBIE
Come on, let's play.
MONTAGE: RUCKER PARK - DAY
Pablo dribbles the ball down the wing as two players double
team him. Pablo passes to Robbie.
Robbie shoots - swish.
A player dribbles against Robbie. Robbie reaches in and
knocks the ball loose.
Pablo dribbles the ball. Robbie cuts through the lane,
drawing the defense.
Pablo takes a step and shoots a mid-range jumper - swish.
The ball swishes through the hoop again and again.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Pablo stands in the middle of the court. Robbie and a player
stand under the basket.
A player holds a few bills in his hand as he slaps hands with
Robbie.
The player, now empty-handed walks away from Robbie.
Robbie, smiling, walks to Pablo.
ROBBIE
Thanks, little bro, it was a good
day.
Robbie walks off the court.
Pablo stays in the middle of the court, watching Robbie.
EXT. CITY STREETS - DAY
Robbie walks down the street. Pablo appears in front of
Robbie.
PABLO
That ain't cool, hustling players
like that.
Robbie shrugs and walks past Pablo.
ROBBIE
That's cool, you can have your
opinion.
PABLO
But you're using me to hustle.
ROBBIE
You don't have to help me.
Pablo grabs Robbie's shoulder.
PABLO
What are talking about? You're my
brother. I have to help you.
A smirk crosses Robbie's face.
PABLO
That's the only reason I shut up
and played. This won't happen
again.
Suddenly Robbie stops and looks nervous.
Jamal and Ice appear in front of Robbie.
ICE
Hello, Roberto.
Pablo watches from half-a-block away.
ROBBIE
Heya, Ice. You got my payment ok?
ICE
Yeah, nice job mixing in your
interest payment with an
opportunity to hustle. Boss would
be impressed.
ROBBIE
Well, uh, I do my best.
ICE
But, you know what would really
impress the Boss?
Robbie sweats.
ICE
Oh, you do. Now, make it happen
and we'll all be nice and happy.
Ice smiles, revealing his diamond studded teeth.
Ice and Jamal walk away.
Robbie sighs as Pablo walks up to him.
PABLO
Ok, what'd you do.
Robbie looks away from Pablo.
ROBBIE
Nothing, it's fine. I can handle
it.
PABLO
Nothing? Looks like you're pretty
worried about nothing.
ROBBIE
Hey, it's my problem ok. So, maybe
I owe them a little money.
PABLO
How much.
ROBBIE
Only 50gs.
Pablo jumps up and down.
PABLO
50 grand? What'd you do? Buy a
Lexus? or...
Robbie grabs Pablo.
ROBBIE
Whoa, calm down, little bro. Don't
tell the whole world.
Pablo stops moving.
PABLO
But...
ROBBIE
Look, I made some bets that didn't
work out, but I got some ideas.
I'll work it out.
Robbie walks away from a worried looking Pablo.
ROBBIE
Trust me, you don't have to worry.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Banners are set in the park advertising, "Goat Classic."
Fans trickle into the stands.
Bunyan, Bones, and Pablo stretch outside the court.
BONES
Robbie showed up yesterday?
PABLO
Yeah, just walked up like
everything was normal.
BONES
Wow. Is everything normal?
Pablo looks away and shakes his head.
BONES
Yo, anything I can do or...
Bones suddenly turns to the side.
Robbie walks towards them.
BONES
Robbie! Long time, man.
ROBBIE
Bones! Still hitting every shot?
Bones and Robbie hug. Pablo looks away.
PABLO
What are you doing here?
ROBBIE
Hey, just came by to watch. That's
cool, right?
Robbie enters the court. Pablo looks confused.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Pablo runs up the court with Bones. Players on defense look
confused.
Pablo makes a behind the back pass to Bones.
Bones swoops past the defense and lays in the ball.
The crowd cheers.
BONES
Oh, too easy.
The players hang their heads as they dribble the ball up the
court.
A player dribbles against Pablo on the wing. Robbie sits in
the stands behind the player.
Suddenly, the player dribbles the ball to Pablo's side.
Pablo slides, but the player has a step.
The player shoots a floating runner.
The ball floats in the air.
Bunyan's hand appears out of nowhere and slaps the ball.
The ball flies into the stands.
The crowd ooohs.
The player shakes his head and signals timeout.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
Timeout. Not that it's gonna help
or anything.
Pablo, Bones, and Bunyan head to the bench.
Pablo smiles at the cheering crowd.
Pablo notices Robbie, who motions for Pablo to come.
Pablo walks toward Robbie, who jumps onto the court and puts
his arm around Pablo. Robbie pulls Pablo onto the court,
away from the crowd.
ROBBIE
Man, you're schooling them out
there. When'd my little brother
get so good?
PABLO
Haha, thanks.
ROBBIE
But, hey, can you do me a favor? I
need you to let them score, oh,
five more baskets.
PABLO
What?
ROBBIE
Yeah, you see, some guys are
running an over-under thing, and
they'd really appreciate it if the
game were closer.
PABLO
Are you crazy...
Robbie pulls Pablo close and looks scared.
ROBBIE
I owe these guys money. Come on, I
need your help.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Robbie, looking scared, has his arm around Pablo. Pablo
looks surprised. The crowd cheers behind them.
ROBBIE
Come on, just let them score five
buckets before you close them out.
That's not too hard.
There is the sound of a whistle.
Robbie steps away from Pablo and smiles.
ROBBIE
Now go out and do this!
Robbie smirks as he walks away. Pablo seems frozen.
Bones and Bunyan run up to Pablo.
BONES
Ok, let's end this.
Pablo doesn't move.
BONES
Yo, Pablo. Hey, man, game on.
Pablo squints.
MONTAGE: RUCKER PARK - DAY
Pablo dribbles the ball up the court.
Pablo makes eye contact with Robbie.
Pablo no-look passes the ball into the air. Bunyan catches
the ball and alley-oop slams the ball.
Pablo takes a shot. Pablo looks directly at Robbie as the
ball goes through the hoop.
The crowd cheers.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
The crowd cheers as Pablo walks to Robbie. Robbie holds out
his hands.
PABLO
Tell your people to meet me
tonight.
Pablo storms off the court.
EXT. THE CAGE - NIGHT
The court is dark and deserted. Robbie, Boss, Ice, and Jamal
stand on the court. Boss wears a long, dark coat.
BOSS
So, where's your brother?
PABLO (O.S.)
I'm right here.
Pablo, holding a basketball, Bones, and Bunyan walk our of
the shadows and enter the court.
PABLO
I've got a little proposition for
you. Me and you, a game of loser,
double or nothing on my brother's
tab.
BOSS
I don't think I know that one.
PABLO
Easy, I make a shot, then you have
to do it. If you can't, then I
have to make it again to give you
an 'L'. We go back and forth until
you spell loser.
Boss smirks at Pablo.
BOSS
Alright, but if you win, I'll cut
Robbie's debt in half.
PABLO
What?
BOSS
Take it or leave it.
Pablo paces.
PABLO
Fine, you're on.
BOSS
Alright, player. I shoot first.
Boss tosses off his coat and grabs the ball from Pablo.
Boss runs to the rib and makes a two-handed monster slam
dunk.
Boss does a pull up on the rim. Pablo and Bones look
surprised.
Boss flips the ball to Pablo.
BOSS
You're facing the lion now! I'm
the king of the jungle.
MONTAGE: THE CAGE - NIGHT
Pablo tries to dunk but hits the rim.
Pablo fakes a pass behind his back, bringing the ball forward
for a layup.
Boss puts the ball behind his back, but loses it out of
bounds.
Boss jumps over Robbie and dunks.
Pablo runs into Robbie, losing the ball.
Pablo shoots a long three. The ball swishes through the
hoop.
Boss shoots a long three, bricking the shot.
The ball goes through the hoop.
The ball banks off the rim.
Boss shakes his head.
EXT. THE CAGE - NIGHT
Pablo and Boss have their hands on their knees and breathe
heavily. Bunyan and Bones walk over to Pablo.
BUNYAN
Hey, you got him now. Your shot.
One more letter and he's done.
PABLO
Yeah, one more letter for me too.
Boss whistles, and everyone turns to him.
BOSS
Nice fight, kid, but this is my
jungle.
Bunyan grabs Pablo and turns him away from Boss.
BUNYAN
Hey, forget about him. You know
what's the most dangerous animal in
the jungle? Humans. We've got the
brains to beat the lion. Now, get
in there do it.
Pablo straightens up and glares at Boss.
Pablo holds up his hand.
The basketball flies to Pablo's hand.
Pablo drives for the basket.
Pablo leans forward and throws the ball behind his back, but
forward at the backboard.
The ball bounces off the backboard and into the air.
Pablo jumps, catches the ball, twists in the air, and flips
the ball up into the basket.
Everyone looks impressed.
Boss takes a deep breath. Bones and Bunyan walk up to Boss.
BONES
Wow, what a shot.
BUNYAN
Man, I'd be paying someone to take
that shot.
BOSS
Wouldn't that be nice.
Boss starts dribbling the ball.
BONES
You know, I can make that shot.
I'd take it.
Boss holds the ball and looks at Bones.
BUNYAN
I'd pay you to take that shot for
me.
BONES
No, I'd pay for this shot.
Bones turns to Boss.
BONES
I'll pay you a hundred bucks for
that shot.
BOSS
What?
Bones pulls out a hundred dollars.
BONES
Yeah, here, I'll make your shot.
I'm the king of the courts.
Boss shrugs and takes the money.
BOSS
Be my guest.
Bones takes the ball and dribbles it.
Bones drives at the rim.
Bones leans forward, flipping the ball off the backboard.
Bones jumps and twists, but fumbles the ball as it returns.
Jamal and Ice laugh.
ICE
Nice one. Bravo.
Bones hangs his head.
Boss picks up the ball.
BOSS
Now, if you excuse me.
Boss takes a dribble, but Bunyan grabs his arm.
BOSS
Let go of me.
BUNYAN
Hey, Bones bought your shot for a
hundred dollars. Now it's Pablo's
shot.
Boss's face turns blank as he drops the ball.
Pablo picks up the ball and smirks at Boss.
BOSS
You hustled me.
Pablo flips the ball over his back, off the backboard. Pablo
jumps, twists, and flips the ball into the hoop.
BONES
You tried to frame me. I say we're
even.
Pablo walks up to the others.
PABLO
I win, you're a loser.
Boss looks away and grits his teeth.
BOSS
Fine, I guess today's your lucky
day, Robbie.
Robbie stands tall.
BOSS
But you still owe me.
Robbie slumps.
BOSS
As for the rest of you.
There is the sound of a siren. Down the street, a couple
police cars approach The Cage.
BONES
Oh yeah, you know a guy named
Priest?
Boss turns around.
BOSS
We're done here.
Boss walks off the court. Ice and Jamal, holding Boss's
coat, scamper behind him.
Boss, Ice, and Jamal disappear into the shadows.
EXT. THE CAGE - NIGHT
Priest, dressed in his police uniform, stands next to Bones
and Bunyan.
BONES
Yeah, we played against this guy
they called, "Boss." Big guy, like
you.
PRIEST
The Boss was here?
Pablo and Robbie walk away from The Cage.
ROBBIE
Sweet job, little bro. We make a
good team.
PABLO
No, we don't. I just got you out
of a lot of debt, but this is the
last time.
ROBBIE
Whoa, what are you saying.
PABLO
I'm saying you're on your own now.
You gotta be smarter.
Pablo walks away from Robbie.
ROBBIE
You don't have to worry about me.
I'll be good. Haha.
AL (V.O.)
Family's a hard thing. You want to
be loving, but sometimes, the most
loving thing to do is to just let
go.
THE END
Pablo looks shocked, but Robbie smiles.
ROBBIE
Trust me, little brother, I know
what I'm doing.
Robbie starts walking off the court. Pablo stays in the
middle of the court.
A few players walk up to Robbie.
Robbie and the players talk for a few seconds.
Robbie turns back to Pablo and tosses him a basketball.
ROBBIE
Alright, we got another game.
Pablo dribbles the ball with a confused look.
PABLO
But...
ROBBIE
Come on, let's play.
MONTAGE: RUCKER PARK - DAY
Pablo dribbles the ball down the wing as two players double
team him. Pablo passes to Robbie.
Robbie shoots - swish.
A player dribbles against Robbie. Robbie reaches in and
knocks the ball loose.
Pablo dribbles the ball. Robbie cuts through the lane,
drawing the defense.
Pablo takes a step and shoots a mid-range jumper - swish.
The ball swishes through the hoop again and again.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Pablo stands in the middle of the court. Robbie and a player
stand under the basket.
A player holds a few bills in his hand as he slaps hands with
Robbie.
The player, now empty-handed walks away from Robbie.
Robbie, smiling, walks to Pablo.
ROBBIE
Thanks, little bro, it was a good
day.
Robbie walks off the court.
Pablo stays in the middle of the court, watching Robbie.
EXT. CITY STREETS - DAY
Robbie walks down the street. Pablo appears in front of
Robbie.
PABLO
That ain't cool, hustling players
like that.
Robbie shrugs and walks past Pablo.
ROBBIE
That's cool, you can have your
opinion.
PABLO
But you're using me to hustle.
ROBBIE
You don't have to help me.
Pablo grabs Robbie's shoulder.
PABLO
What are talking about? You're my
brother. I have to help you.
A smirk crosses Robbie's face.
PABLO
That's the only reason I shut up
and played. This won't happen
again.
Suddenly Robbie stops and looks nervous.
Jamal and Ice appear in front of Robbie.
ICE
Hello, Roberto.
Pablo watches from half-a-block away.
ROBBIE
Heya, Ice. You got my payment ok?
ICE
Yeah, nice job mixing in your
interest payment with an
opportunity to hustle. Boss would
be impressed.
ROBBIE
Well, uh, I do my best.
ICE
But, you know what would really
impress the Boss?
Robbie sweats.
ICE
Oh, you do. Now, make it happen
and we'll all be nice and happy.
Ice smiles, revealing his diamond studded teeth.
Ice and Jamal walk away.
Robbie sighs as Pablo walks up to him.
PABLO
Ok, what'd you do.
Robbie looks away from Pablo.
ROBBIE
Nothing, it's fine. I can handle
it.
PABLO
Nothing? Looks like you're pretty
worried about nothing.
ROBBIE
Hey, it's my problem ok. So, maybe
I owe them a little money.
PABLO
How much.
ROBBIE
Only 50gs.
Pablo jumps up and down.
PABLO
50 grand? What'd you do? Buy a
Lexus? or...
Robbie grabs Pablo.
ROBBIE
Whoa, calm down, little bro. Don't
tell the whole world.
Pablo stops moving.
PABLO
But...
ROBBIE
Look, I made some bets that didn't
work out, but I got some ideas.
I'll work it out.
Robbie walks away from a worried looking Pablo.
ROBBIE
Trust me, you don't have to worry.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Banners are set in the park advertising, "Goat Classic."
Fans trickle into the stands.
Bunyan, Bones, and Pablo stretch outside the court.
BONES
Robbie showed up yesterday?
PABLO
Yeah, just walked up like
everything was normal.
BONES
Wow. Is everything normal?
Pablo looks away and shakes his head.
BONES
Yo, anything I can do or...
Bones suddenly turns to the side.
Robbie walks towards them.
BONES
Robbie! Long time, man.
ROBBIE
Bones! Still hitting every shot?
Bones and Robbie hug. Pablo looks away.
PABLO
What are you doing here?
ROBBIE
Hey, just came by to watch. That's
cool, right?
Robbie enters the court. Pablo looks confused.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Pablo runs up the court with Bones. Players on defense look
confused.
Pablo makes a behind the back pass to Bones.
Bones swoops past the defense and lays in the ball.
The crowd cheers.
BONES
Oh, too easy.
The players hang their heads as they dribble the ball up the
court.
A player dribbles against Pablo on the wing. Robbie sits in
the stands behind the player.
Suddenly, the player dribbles the ball to Pablo's side.
Pablo slides, but the player has a step.
The player shoots a floating runner.
The ball floats in the air.
Bunyan's hand appears out of nowhere and slaps the ball.
The ball flies into the stands.
The crowd ooohs.
The player shakes his head and signals timeout.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
Timeout. Not that it's gonna help
or anything.
Pablo, Bones, and Bunyan head to the bench.
Pablo smiles at the cheering crowd.
Pablo notices Robbie, who motions for Pablo to come.
Pablo walks toward Robbie, who jumps onto the court and puts
his arm around Pablo. Robbie pulls Pablo onto the court,
away from the crowd.
ROBBIE
Man, you're schooling them out
there. When'd my little brother
get so good?
PABLO
Haha, thanks.
ROBBIE
But, hey, can you do me a favor? I
need you to let them score, oh,
five more baskets.
PABLO
What?
ROBBIE
Yeah, you see, some guys are
running an over-under thing, and
they'd really appreciate it if the
game were closer.
PABLO
Are you crazy...
Robbie pulls Pablo close and looks scared.
ROBBIE
I owe these guys money. Come on, I
need your help.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Robbie, looking scared, has his arm around Pablo. Pablo
looks surprised. The crowd cheers behind them.
ROBBIE
Come on, just let them score five
buckets before you close them out.
That's not too hard.
There is the sound of a whistle.
Robbie steps away from Pablo and smiles.
ROBBIE
Now go out and do this!
Robbie smirks as he walks away. Pablo seems frozen.
Bones and Bunyan run up to Pablo.
BONES
Ok, let's end this.
Pablo doesn't move.
BONES
Yo, Pablo. Hey, man, game on.
Pablo squints.
MONTAGE: RUCKER PARK - DAY
Pablo dribbles the ball up the court.
Pablo makes eye contact with Robbie.
Pablo no-look passes the ball into the air. Bunyan catches
the ball and alley-oop slams the ball.
Pablo takes a shot. Pablo looks directly at Robbie as the
ball goes through the hoop.
The crowd cheers.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
The crowd cheers as Pablo walks to Robbie. Robbie holds out
his hands.
PABLO
Tell your people to meet me
tonight.
Pablo storms off the court.
EXT. THE CAGE - NIGHT
The court is dark and deserted. Robbie, Boss, Ice, and Jamal
stand on the court. Boss wears a long, dark coat.
BOSS
So, where's your brother?
PABLO (O.S.)
I'm right here.
Pablo, holding a basketball, Bones, and Bunyan walk our of
the shadows and enter the court.
PABLO
I've got a little proposition for
you. Me and you, a game of loser,
double or nothing on my brother's
tab.
BOSS
I don't think I know that one.
PABLO
Easy, I make a shot, then you have
to do it. If you can't, then I
have to make it again to give you
an 'L'. We go back and forth until
you spell loser.
Boss smirks at Pablo.
BOSS
Alright, but if you win, I'll cut
Robbie's debt in half.
PABLO
What?
BOSS
Take it or leave it.
Pablo paces.
PABLO
Fine, you're on.
BOSS
Alright, player. I shoot first.
Boss tosses off his coat and grabs the ball from Pablo.
Boss runs to the rib and makes a two-handed monster slam
dunk.
Boss does a pull up on the rim. Pablo and Bones look
surprised.
Boss flips the ball to Pablo.
BOSS
You're facing the lion now! I'm
the king of the jungle.
MONTAGE: THE CAGE - NIGHT
Pablo tries to dunk but hits the rim.
Pablo fakes a pass behind his back, bringing the ball forward
for a layup.
Boss puts the ball behind his back, but loses it out of
bounds.
Boss jumps over Robbie and dunks.
Pablo runs into Robbie, losing the ball.
Pablo shoots a long three. The ball swishes through the
hoop.
Boss shoots a long three, bricking the shot.
The ball goes through the hoop.
The ball banks off the rim.
Boss shakes his head.
EXT. THE CAGE - NIGHT
Pablo and Boss have their hands on their knees and breathe
heavily. Bunyan and Bones walk over to Pablo.
BUNYAN
Hey, you got him now. Your shot.
One more letter and he's done.
PABLO
Yeah, one more letter for me too.
Boss whistles, and everyone turns to him.
BOSS
Nice fight, kid, but this is my
jungle.
Bunyan grabs Pablo and turns him away from Boss.
BUNYAN
Hey, forget about him. You know
what's the most dangerous animal in
the jungle? Humans. We've got the
brains to beat the lion. Now, get
in there do it.
Pablo straightens up and glares at Boss.
Pablo holds up his hand.
The basketball flies to Pablo's hand.
Pablo drives for the basket.
Pablo leans forward and throws the ball behind his back, but
forward at the backboard.
The ball bounces off the backboard and into the air.
Pablo jumps, catches the ball, twists in the air, and flips
the ball up into the basket.
Everyone looks impressed.
Boss takes a deep breath. Bones and Bunyan walk up to Boss.
BONES
Wow, what a shot.
BUNYAN
Man, I'd be paying someone to take
that shot.
BOSS
Wouldn't that be nice.
Boss starts dribbling the ball.
BONES
You know, I can make that shot.
I'd take it.
Boss holds the ball and looks at Bones.
BUNYAN
I'd pay you to take that shot for
me.
BONES
No, I'd pay for this shot.
Bones turns to Boss.
BONES
I'll pay you a hundred bucks for
that shot.
BOSS
What?
Bones pulls out a hundred dollars.
BONES
Yeah, here, I'll make your shot.
I'm the king of the courts.
Boss shrugs and takes the money.
BOSS
Be my guest.
Bones takes the ball and dribbles it.
Bones drives at the rim.
Bones leans forward, flipping the ball off the backboard.
Bones jumps and twists, but fumbles the ball as it returns.
Jamal and Ice laugh.
ICE
Nice one. Bravo.
Bones hangs his head.
Boss picks up the ball.
BOSS
Now, if you excuse me.
Boss takes a dribble, but Bunyan grabs his arm.
BOSS
Let go of me.
BUNYAN
Hey, Bones bought your shot for a
hundred dollars. Now it's Pablo's
shot.
Boss's face turns blank as he drops the ball.
Pablo picks up the ball and smirks at Boss.
BOSS
You hustled me.
Pablo flips the ball over his back, off the backboard. Pablo
jumps, twists, and flips the ball into the hoop.
BONES
You tried to frame me. I say we're
even.
Pablo walks up to the others.
PABLO
I win, you're a loser.
Boss looks away and grits his teeth.
BOSS
Fine, I guess today's your lucky
day, Robbie.
Robbie stands tall.
BOSS
But you still owe me.
Robbie slumps.
BOSS
As for the rest of you.
There is the sound of a siren. Down the street, a couple
police cars approach The Cage.
BONES
Oh yeah, you know a guy named
Priest?
Boss turns around.
BOSS
We're done here.
Boss walks off the court. Ice and Jamal, holding Boss's
coat, scamper behind him.
Boss, Ice, and Jamal disappear into the shadows.
EXT. THE CAGE - NIGHT
Priest, dressed in his police uniform, stands next to Bones
and Bunyan.
BONES
Yeah, we played against this guy
they called, "Boss." Big guy, like
you.
PRIEST
The Boss was here?
Pablo and Robbie walk away from The Cage.
ROBBIE
Sweet job, little bro. We make a
good team.
PABLO
No, we don't. I just got you out
of a lot of debt, but this is the
last time.
ROBBIE
Whoa, what are you saying.
PABLO
I'm saying you're on your own now.
You gotta be smarter.
Pablo walks away from Robbie.
ROBBIE
You don't have to worry about me.
I'll be good. Haha.
AL (V.O.)
Family's a hard thing. You want to
be loving, but sometimes, the most
loving thing to do is to just let
go.
THE END
Playaz - My Brother Robbie - Act 1
CAST LIST
Bones (19) - skinny, 6 foot black kid from the streets.
Pablo (17) - fat, 6-2 Hispanic kid
Priest (35) - hulking 6-10 black police officer
Jerry (23) - 5-10 Chinese guy with a goatee
Cheryl (31) - 6-0 black lady who's a lawyer by day.
Hans (25) - 6-8 German man who dresses stylish
Bunyan (18) - 7-2 with wild red hair and dressed from the
70s.
Skittles (9) - shy brunette girl who watches excitedly.
DJ (26) - short fellow with a loud voice
Al (60) - a homeless man
INT. PABLO'S HOUSE - DAY
Pablo walks through a small living room with a stack of mail
in his hands. One letter is from, "Educational Testing
Service," and addressed to, "Paul Redding."
PABLO
Hey, Bunyan, you got mail.
Pablo tosses the letter on a table and walks on, flipping
through the mail.
Another letter is addressed to, "Roberto Sanchez," and reads,
"Past due," in big red letters.
Pablo sighs.
AL (V.O.)
One thing about family. You're
always connected.
There is a loud knock.
Pablo opens the front door.
EXT. PABLO'S HOUSE - DAY
Pablo opens the front door and sees a couple TOUGHS outside.
TOUGH #1
Hello. We're looking for Robbie
Sanchez.
PABLO
Sorry, but he doesn't live here
anymore. I haven't seen him in
weeks.
TOUGH #1
Well, it is very important that we
find him. I'm sure you don't mind
us taking a look around.
Pablo's eyes dart from side to side.
The window rolls down on a car across the street revealing
BOSS (40), Priest's brother.
PABLO
Whoa, what's going on? Did
something happen?
TOUGH #1
We'd prefer to not speak about this
to anyone but Robbie, so if you
wouldn't mind.
Tough #1 steps forward, but stops suddenly and looks up.
Bunyan appears behind Pablo.
BUNYAN
Hey, Pablo, I passed! Broke 500 in
all sections too, woo!
Bunyan turns and sees the Toughs, who seem a bit intimidated.
BUNYAN
Hey, what's up.
TOUGH #1
Uh, is Robbie here?
BUNYAN
Nah, just us. Robbie's your
brother right? I think we was
playing ball the other night,
wasn't he?
Pablo gives Bunyan a worried look.
The Toughs walk back to Boss' car.
TOUGH #1
Thank you for your time. If you
see your brother, let him know we
stopped by.
The Toughs jump into Boss' car.
Boss' car speeds off.
Pablo exhales.
BUNYAN
What was that all about?
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
The stands are empty as Pablo, Bunyan, Priest, and Hans run
on the court. Pablo dribbles the ball.
In the key, Priest and Hans surround Bunyan.
Pablo smirks as he takes a step back. Pablo shoots a jumper -
swish.
PRIEST
Don't stay outside all day.
PABLO
Man, I'll just stay here, outside
the forest.
Priest, Hans, and Bunyan look at each other and laugh.
BUNYAN
We do have NBA size in here.
PRIEST
Yeah, but size doesn't win by
default.
ROBBIE (O.S.)
Room for one more.
Pablo turns to see ROBBIE (20), a taller, more athletic
Pablo. Priest watches Robbie closely.
PABLO
Finally decide to show your face?
Bunyan and Hans look awkward and back away from Pablo and
Robbie.
ROBBIE
Hey, little bro, just here to ball.
PABLO
Fine, then maybe you can explain
why some gang muscle knocked on my
door this morning.
Priest moves closer to Pablo and Robbie.
ROBBIE
Whoa, hey, sorry you had to see
that. We just had a little
misunderstanding, but it's all
taken care of. Let's just play
some ball.
EXT. CITY STREETS - DAY
YOUNG PABLO (8), chubbly, and YOUNG ROBBIE (10), bigger, run
through the streets. Young Pablo chases after Young Robbie.
YOUNG ROBBIE
Come on, slowpoke!
AL (V.O.)
Those two rascals used to cause all
sorts of trouble.
Al lays on the sidewalk.
Young Pablo and Young Robbie hurdle over Al.
Al looks up and watches Young Pablo and Young Robbie run down
the street.
EXT. CITY STREETS - DAY
Young Pablo and Young Robbie stand in an alley.
YOUNG ROBBIE
You ready?
YOUNG PABLO
Yeah, do it!
Young Robbie drops a bunch of candies into a 2-liter coke
bottle.
Young Robbie runs as the coke sprays into the air.
YOUNG ROBBIE AND YOUNG PABLO
Hahahahahhaha!
Young Ice and a few other tough guys smirk at Young Robbie
and Young Pablo.
YOUNG ICE
Hey, that was a nice one.
Young Pablo looks nervous. Young Robbie seems interested.
YOUNG ROBBIE
Yeah, it was. I've seen you
around, haven't I?
YOUNG ICE
You can call me Ice. Be seeing you
around some more?
YOUNG ROBBIE
Yeah.
Young Ice smiles, showing a row of pearly, white teeth.
YOUNG ICE
Cool.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Robbie and Pablo approach a few players, including Jamal.
ROBBIE
Hey, hey, who wants a game?
PLAYER #1
(to Pablo)
I saw you play the other night, at
the tournament.
PLAYER #2
Yeah, you're with Bones and that
big redhead guy.
Pablo opens his mouth, but Robbie cuts in front of him.
ROBBIE
That's right, my brother he's the
man. Now who wants a shot at his
title?
The players look at one another.
ROBBIE
I'll even give you odds. We win,
you give me 50. You win, I'll give
you a hundred.
The players all look and nod to one another.
JAMAL
I'll take that.
ROBBIE
Alright, someone with some guts.
Jamal dribbles a ball as Pablo pulls Robbie to the side.
PABLO
Whoa, what are you doing?
ROBBIE
Don't worry, bro. Just play ball,
I got this.
Pablo looks worried as Robbie walks toward Jamal.
MONTAGE: RUCKER PARK - DAY
Pablo dribbles the ball at the top of the key.
Pablo passes to Robbie for an open jumper. Robbie shoots,
but bricks the shot.
Jamal dribbles the ball against Robbie. Jamal crosses over
and goes around Robbie.
Pablo dribbles into the key. Pablo passes behind his back to
Robbie, but the ball goes through Robbie's hands and bounces
around the bleachers.
Players laugh on the sideline.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Robbie holds a wad of bills in his hands and slaps hands with
Jamal.
ROBBIE
Good game.
Robbie pulls his hand back, showing and empty hand.
JAMAL
Pleasure doing business with you.
Pablo grabs Robbie and pulls him aside.
PABLO
Man, you're better than that! And
you just gave your money away.
What, are you trying to lose?
ROBBIE
Well, yeah.
Pablo looks shocked, but Robbie seems calm.
Bones (19) - skinny, 6 foot black kid from the streets.
Pablo (17) - fat, 6-2 Hispanic kid
Priest (35) - hulking 6-10 black police officer
Jerry (23) - 5-10 Chinese guy with a goatee
Cheryl (31) - 6-0 black lady who's a lawyer by day.
Hans (25) - 6-8 German man who dresses stylish
Bunyan (18) - 7-2 with wild red hair and dressed from the
70s.
Skittles (9) - shy brunette girl who watches excitedly.
DJ (26) - short fellow with a loud voice
Al (60) - a homeless man
INT. PABLO'S HOUSE - DAY
Pablo walks through a small living room with a stack of mail
in his hands. One letter is from, "Educational Testing
Service," and addressed to, "Paul Redding."
PABLO
Hey, Bunyan, you got mail.
Pablo tosses the letter on a table and walks on, flipping
through the mail.
Another letter is addressed to, "Roberto Sanchez," and reads,
"Past due," in big red letters.
Pablo sighs.
AL (V.O.)
One thing about family. You're
always connected.
There is a loud knock.
Pablo opens the front door.
EXT. PABLO'S HOUSE - DAY
Pablo opens the front door and sees a couple TOUGHS outside.
TOUGH #1
Hello. We're looking for Robbie
Sanchez.
PABLO
Sorry, but he doesn't live here
anymore. I haven't seen him in
weeks.
TOUGH #1
Well, it is very important that we
find him. I'm sure you don't mind
us taking a look around.
Pablo's eyes dart from side to side.
The window rolls down on a car across the street revealing
BOSS (40), Priest's brother.
PABLO
Whoa, what's going on? Did
something happen?
TOUGH #1
We'd prefer to not speak about this
to anyone but Robbie, so if you
wouldn't mind.
Tough #1 steps forward, but stops suddenly and looks up.
Bunyan appears behind Pablo.
BUNYAN
Hey, Pablo, I passed! Broke 500 in
all sections too, woo!
Bunyan turns and sees the Toughs, who seem a bit intimidated.
BUNYAN
Hey, what's up.
TOUGH #1
Uh, is Robbie here?
BUNYAN
Nah, just us. Robbie's your
brother right? I think we was
playing ball the other night,
wasn't he?
Pablo gives Bunyan a worried look.
The Toughs walk back to Boss' car.
TOUGH #1
Thank you for your time. If you
see your brother, let him know we
stopped by.
The Toughs jump into Boss' car.
Boss' car speeds off.
Pablo exhales.
BUNYAN
What was that all about?
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
The stands are empty as Pablo, Bunyan, Priest, and Hans run
on the court. Pablo dribbles the ball.
In the key, Priest and Hans surround Bunyan.
Pablo smirks as he takes a step back. Pablo shoots a jumper -
swish.
PRIEST
Don't stay outside all day.
PABLO
Man, I'll just stay here, outside
the forest.
Priest, Hans, and Bunyan look at each other and laugh.
BUNYAN
We do have NBA size in here.
PRIEST
Yeah, but size doesn't win by
default.
ROBBIE (O.S.)
Room for one more.
Pablo turns to see ROBBIE (20), a taller, more athletic
Pablo. Priest watches Robbie closely.
PABLO
Finally decide to show your face?
Bunyan and Hans look awkward and back away from Pablo and
Robbie.
ROBBIE
Hey, little bro, just here to ball.
PABLO
Fine, then maybe you can explain
why some gang muscle knocked on my
door this morning.
Priest moves closer to Pablo and Robbie.
ROBBIE
Whoa, hey, sorry you had to see
that. We just had a little
misunderstanding, but it's all
taken care of. Let's just play
some ball.
EXT. CITY STREETS - DAY
YOUNG PABLO (8), chubbly, and YOUNG ROBBIE (10), bigger, run
through the streets. Young Pablo chases after Young Robbie.
YOUNG ROBBIE
Come on, slowpoke!
AL (V.O.)
Those two rascals used to cause all
sorts of trouble.
Al lays on the sidewalk.
Young Pablo and Young Robbie hurdle over Al.
Al looks up and watches Young Pablo and Young Robbie run down
the street.
EXT. CITY STREETS - DAY
Young Pablo and Young Robbie stand in an alley.
YOUNG ROBBIE
You ready?
YOUNG PABLO
Yeah, do it!
Young Robbie drops a bunch of candies into a 2-liter coke
bottle.
Young Robbie runs as the coke sprays into the air.
YOUNG ROBBIE AND YOUNG PABLO
Hahahahahhaha!
Young Ice and a few other tough guys smirk at Young Robbie
and Young Pablo.
YOUNG ICE
Hey, that was a nice one.
Young Pablo looks nervous. Young Robbie seems interested.
YOUNG ROBBIE
Yeah, it was. I've seen you
around, haven't I?
YOUNG ICE
You can call me Ice. Be seeing you
around some more?
YOUNG ROBBIE
Yeah.
Young Ice smiles, showing a row of pearly, white teeth.
YOUNG ICE
Cool.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Robbie and Pablo approach a few players, including Jamal.
ROBBIE
Hey, hey, who wants a game?
PLAYER #1
(to Pablo)
I saw you play the other night, at
the tournament.
PLAYER #2
Yeah, you're with Bones and that
big redhead guy.
Pablo opens his mouth, but Robbie cuts in front of him.
ROBBIE
That's right, my brother he's the
man. Now who wants a shot at his
title?
The players look at one another.
ROBBIE
I'll even give you odds. We win,
you give me 50. You win, I'll give
you a hundred.
The players all look and nod to one another.
JAMAL
I'll take that.
ROBBIE
Alright, someone with some guts.
Jamal dribbles a ball as Pablo pulls Robbie to the side.
PABLO
Whoa, what are you doing?
ROBBIE
Don't worry, bro. Just play ball,
I got this.
Pablo looks worried as Robbie walks toward Jamal.
MONTAGE: RUCKER PARK - DAY
Pablo dribbles the ball at the top of the key.
Pablo passes to Robbie for an open jumper. Robbie shoots,
but bricks the shot.
Jamal dribbles the ball against Robbie. Jamal crosses over
and goes around Robbie.
Pablo dribbles into the key. Pablo passes behind his back to
Robbie, but the ball goes through Robbie's hands and bounces
around the bleachers.
Players laugh on the sideline.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Robbie holds a wad of bills in his hands and slaps hands with
Jamal.
ROBBIE
Good game.
Robbie pulls his hand back, showing and empty hand.
JAMAL
Pleasure doing business with you.
Pablo grabs Robbie and pulls him aside.
PABLO
Man, you're better than that! And
you just gave your money away.
What, are you trying to lose?
ROBBIE
Well, yeah.
Pablo looks shocked, but Robbie seems calm.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Playaz - Cheryl - Act 3
EXT. THE CAGE - MOMENTS LATER
Cheryl storms around the cage. Priest, Hans, and Jerry look
worried.
PRIEST
Whoa, take it easy...
CHERYL
No! Are you telling me that I'm
not even as good as a guy with one
good leg?
PRIEST
Don't be like that. We've all got
strengths and weaknesses..
Cheryl kicks open the gate and storms out.
Cheryl's eyes well with tears and she walks away from the
Cage. Priest and the others look on with worried
expressions.
INT. ST. JOSEPH'S - DAY
Young Cheryl sits at a desk in a classroom filled with other
students. A newspaper lies in front of Young Cheryl. The
headline reads, "Cheryl Adams leads the way to championship."
A picture of Young Cheryl, dressed in a basketball uniform,
sits under the headline.
Young Cheryl holds up the newspaper and smiles.
EXT. ST. JOSEPH'S - DAY
Young Cheryl runs out onto the playground as a bell sounds.
Children run about.
Young Cheryl focuses on something.
Young Cheryl struts towards Young Priest and the Fat Kid.
FAT KID
Wow, you finished in third? That's
awesome!
YOUNG CHERYL
Well, did you see this?
Young Priest and the others turn towards Cheryl. Cheryl
points to the newspaper headline reading, "Cheryl Adams leads
the way to championship."
FAT KID
Pssshhh. That ain't real
basketball.
Everyone turns back to Young Priest.
FAT KID
So, could anyone dunk out there?
Young Cheryl turns away and grits her teeth.
INT. ST. JOSEPH'S HALLWAY - DAY
Young Cheryl stands next to the school's trophy case in a
hallway.
Cheryl looks at a women's basketball trophy, sitting in the
side of the case, and smiles.
A men's basketball trophy, three times the size of the
women's trophy, sits in the center of the case.
Cheryl frowns.
INT. DORM ROOM - DAY
Cheryl, dressed in a college sweatshirt, sits inside a dorm
room decorated with college sports posters and pennants.
A newspaper sprawls out in front of Cheryl.
The newspaper reads, "National Champs!" A picture of Cheryl
celebrating lies next to the text.
Cheryl smiles.
Cheryl leans back, revealing that the National Champs article
is a tiny box on page 6 of the sports section.
Cheryl turns the newspaper to the front of the section. The
Sports front page talks about baseball, men's college
basketball, etc. - no mention about women's basketball.
Cheryl grits her teeth.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Cheryl grits her teeth on the bench. The stands are full of
fans and the air is filled with cheers. Priest, Hans, Jimmy,
run on the court against Robbie and others.
A Kid walks up to Cheryl.
KID #1
Hey, is it true about the national
championship?
Cheryl smiles.
CHERYL
Why, yes, I played in college for
Notre Dame and we won the national
championship.
Kid #1 seems confused.
KID #1
Uh, that's great, but I was asking
about Priest.
Cheryl's smile fades.
CHERYL
No, he played division 2, but they
did win one year.
Kid #1 turns away from Cheryl.
KID #1
I told you!
Kid #1 runs off.
Cheryl slumps her shoulders.
Jerry, Priest, and Hans run up the court.
Jerry slips and falls to the group.
PRIEST
Whoa, hang on.
There is a whistle.
Cheryl sits on the edge of her seat. Priest helps Jerry to
his feet.
Jerry moves gingerly, but nods to Priest.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
He's ok.
The crowd cheers. Cheryl slumps further.
Bunyan slides down the bleachers next to Cheryl.
BUNYAN
Hey, Cheryl, can I ask you, what do
you see out there?
CHERYL
What, a bunch of guys running
around.
Jerry brings the ball into the front court.
BUNYAN
No, I mean, what are they doing?
Cheryl gives Bunyan a confused look.
BUNYAN
I know you see a lot more than I
do. All I do is jump and try to
block shots in the paint. But, you
see what they're thinking.
CHERYL
I'm not sure what you're talking
about.
BUNYAN
Oh, come on. You knew exactly what
we were doing to you guys last
game. You told Jerry how to break
our press, and you'd have won if he
didn't get hurt.
Cheryl looks at the ground.
CHERYL
Or if I could play better.
BUNYAN
Don't be like that. You might not
be as big or as strong as me, but I
know this. You're a whole lot
smarter.
Cheryl looks up like she's thinking.
BUNYAN
And that's usually worth a whole
lot more.
Cheryl turns toward the court.
In slow-motion, Jerry dribbles the ball at the top of the
key.
Jerry passes to Hans at the right elbow.
Cheryl imagines a chalk line curling around Hans.
Jerry runs along the chalk line, curling around Hans.
Cheryl imagines a chalk line perpendicular to Hans.
Jerry uses Hans as a screen and sheds his defender. Hans
hands the ball to Jerry.
Cheryl imagines a chalk line curling towards the basket.
Chalk Xs appear under the two defenders, with arrows pointing
towards Jerry.
Jerry runs along the chalk line curl. The two defenders
follow the arrows and head towards Jerry.
Cheryl imagines a chalk circle under Priest, who stands near
the basket. A chalk arrow points from Priest to the center
of the key.
Priest follows the chalk arrow into the key and waves his
hand.
Cheryl imagines a dotted line from Jerry to Priest.
Jerry turns to Priest and passes the ball, between the
defenders, to Priest.
Priest catches the ball.
In real time, Priest jumps and throws down a thunderous dunk.
PRIEST
Yeah!
Cheryl's expression brightens as Priest runs back on defense.
BUNYAN
Cheryl?
Robbie breathes heavily as he jogs up the court.
CHERYL
Let me win this game first, then
I'll coach you a bit.
Bunyan smiles and nods.
Jerry dribbles the ball up the court.
Cheryl whistles and holds up her hand.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - MOMENTS LATER
Cheryl walks onto the court as the air is full of cheers.
Robbie glares at Cheryl.
Priest inbounds the ball to Cheryl. Behind Priest, Jerry
sits on the bench.
Robbie, guarding Hans, turns to Cheryl.
ROBBIE
Back for more?
Cheryl makes eye contact with Hans. Hans cuts around Robbie
as Cheryl bounces the ball ahead of Hans.
Hans catches the ball a step ahead of Robbie and lays in the
ball.
CHERYL
You need to talk less and play
more.
Robbie glares at Cheryl.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - MOMENTS LATER
Cheryl dribbles the ball at the top of the key. Robbie
stands in front of Cheryl.
ROBBIE
Ok, here I am. Show me what you
got.
Cheryl squints her eyes and everything slows.
Chalk lines appear on the court, detailing movement and
positioning.
One chalk line heads to the basket.
Cheryl smiles.
Cheryl follows a chalk line in front of Priest.
Cheryl bounces the ball along a chalk line to Priest.
Cheryl cuts the opposite direction and runs, following a
second chalk line.
Hans follows a chalk line that approaches Cheryl's line.
Cheryl uses Hans as a screen. Robbie bumps into Hans.
Cheryl curls around and has an open path to the basket.
Priest passes over his head, along a chalk line, to Cheryl.
Cheryl catches the ball and in one motion, finger rolls the
ball into the basket.
In real time, Cheryl lands on the court.
The crowd erupts.
Cheryl points at Robbie, who hangs his head.
Bunyan and Jerry, on the bench, clap their hands.
BUNYAN
Yeah, I gotta get her to teach me
that one.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
People exit from the stands and walk off the court. A ball
rolls on the court.
Skittles walks onto the court and picks up the ball.
Skittles dribbles the ball a few times.
Suddenly, Skittles grabs the ball and hunches her shoulders.
Skittles turns to see Cheryl watching from the sidelines.
Skittles motions to pass, but Cheryl waves her hands.
CHERYL
Shoot that.
Skittles looks confused.
CHERYL
Shoot it. You can make that shot.
Skittles stands straight and turns toward the basket.
Skittles bounces the ball a few times.
Skittles takes a shot, heaving the ball into the air.
The ball flies through the air and swishes through the rim.
Skittles bounces around happily.
SKITTLES
Hahaha!
Skittles turns toward Cheryl with a wide grin.
CHERYL
I knew you could do it.
Cheryl storms around the cage. Priest, Hans, and Jerry look
worried.
PRIEST
Whoa, take it easy...
CHERYL
No! Are you telling me that I'm
not even as good as a guy with one
good leg?
PRIEST
Don't be like that. We've all got
strengths and weaknesses..
Cheryl kicks open the gate and storms out.
Cheryl's eyes well with tears and she walks away from the
Cage. Priest and the others look on with worried
expressions.
INT. ST. JOSEPH'S - DAY
Young Cheryl sits at a desk in a classroom filled with other
students. A newspaper lies in front of Young Cheryl. The
headline reads, "Cheryl Adams leads the way to championship."
A picture of Young Cheryl, dressed in a basketball uniform,
sits under the headline.
Young Cheryl holds up the newspaper and smiles.
EXT. ST. JOSEPH'S - DAY
Young Cheryl runs out onto the playground as a bell sounds.
Children run about.
Young Cheryl focuses on something.
Young Cheryl struts towards Young Priest and the Fat Kid.
FAT KID
Wow, you finished in third? That's
awesome!
YOUNG CHERYL
Well, did you see this?
Young Priest and the others turn towards Cheryl. Cheryl
points to the newspaper headline reading, "Cheryl Adams leads
the way to championship."
FAT KID
Pssshhh. That ain't real
basketball.
Everyone turns back to Young Priest.
FAT KID
So, could anyone dunk out there?
Young Cheryl turns away and grits her teeth.
INT. ST. JOSEPH'S HALLWAY - DAY
Young Cheryl stands next to the school's trophy case in a
hallway.
Cheryl looks at a women's basketball trophy, sitting in the
side of the case, and smiles.
A men's basketball trophy, three times the size of the
women's trophy, sits in the center of the case.
Cheryl frowns.
INT. DORM ROOM - DAY
Cheryl, dressed in a college sweatshirt, sits inside a dorm
room decorated with college sports posters and pennants.
A newspaper sprawls out in front of Cheryl.
The newspaper reads, "National Champs!" A picture of Cheryl
celebrating lies next to the text.
Cheryl smiles.
Cheryl leans back, revealing that the National Champs article
is a tiny box on page 6 of the sports section.
Cheryl turns the newspaper to the front of the section. The
Sports front page talks about baseball, men's college
basketball, etc. - no mention about women's basketball.
Cheryl grits her teeth.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - DAY
Cheryl grits her teeth on the bench. The stands are full of
fans and the air is filled with cheers. Priest, Hans, Jimmy,
run on the court against Robbie and others.
A Kid walks up to Cheryl.
KID #1
Hey, is it true about the national
championship?
Cheryl smiles.
CHERYL
Why, yes, I played in college for
Notre Dame and we won the national
championship.
Kid #1 seems confused.
KID #1
Uh, that's great, but I was asking
about Priest.
Cheryl's smile fades.
CHERYL
No, he played division 2, but they
did win one year.
Kid #1 turns away from Cheryl.
KID #1
I told you!
Kid #1 runs off.
Cheryl slumps her shoulders.
Jerry, Priest, and Hans run up the court.
Jerry slips and falls to the group.
PRIEST
Whoa, hang on.
There is a whistle.
Cheryl sits on the edge of her seat. Priest helps Jerry to
his feet.
Jerry moves gingerly, but nods to Priest.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
He's ok.
The crowd cheers. Cheryl slumps further.
Bunyan slides down the bleachers next to Cheryl.
BUNYAN
Hey, Cheryl, can I ask you, what do
you see out there?
CHERYL
What, a bunch of guys running
around.
Jerry brings the ball into the front court.
BUNYAN
No, I mean, what are they doing?
Cheryl gives Bunyan a confused look.
BUNYAN
I know you see a lot more than I
do. All I do is jump and try to
block shots in the paint. But, you
see what they're thinking.
CHERYL
I'm not sure what you're talking
about.
BUNYAN
Oh, come on. You knew exactly what
we were doing to you guys last
game. You told Jerry how to break
our press, and you'd have won if he
didn't get hurt.
Cheryl looks at the ground.
CHERYL
Or if I could play better.
BUNYAN
Don't be like that. You might not
be as big or as strong as me, but I
know this. You're a whole lot
smarter.
Cheryl looks up like she's thinking.
BUNYAN
And that's usually worth a whole
lot more.
Cheryl turns toward the court.
In slow-motion, Jerry dribbles the ball at the top of the
key.
Jerry passes to Hans at the right elbow.
Cheryl imagines a chalk line curling around Hans.
Jerry runs along the chalk line, curling around Hans.
Cheryl imagines a chalk line perpendicular to Hans.
Jerry uses Hans as a screen and sheds his defender. Hans
hands the ball to Jerry.
Cheryl imagines a chalk line curling towards the basket.
Chalk Xs appear under the two defenders, with arrows pointing
towards Jerry.
Jerry runs along the chalk line curl. The two defenders
follow the arrows and head towards Jerry.
Cheryl imagines a chalk circle under Priest, who stands near
the basket. A chalk arrow points from Priest to the center
of the key.
Priest follows the chalk arrow into the key and waves his
hand.
Cheryl imagines a dotted line from Jerry to Priest.
Jerry turns to Priest and passes the ball, between the
defenders, to Priest.
Priest catches the ball.
In real time, Priest jumps and throws down a thunderous dunk.
PRIEST
Yeah!
Cheryl's expression brightens as Priest runs back on defense.
BUNYAN
Cheryl?
Robbie breathes heavily as he jogs up the court.
CHERYL
Let me win this game first, then
I'll coach you a bit.
Bunyan smiles and nods.
Jerry dribbles the ball up the court.
Cheryl whistles and holds up her hand.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - MOMENTS LATER
Cheryl walks onto the court as the air is full of cheers.
Robbie glares at Cheryl.
Priest inbounds the ball to Cheryl. Behind Priest, Jerry
sits on the bench.
Robbie, guarding Hans, turns to Cheryl.
ROBBIE
Back for more?
Cheryl makes eye contact with Hans. Hans cuts around Robbie
as Cheryl bounces the ball ahead of Hans.
Hans catches the ball a step ahead of Robbie and lays in the
ball.
CHERYL
You need to talk less and play
more.
Robbie glares at Cheryl.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - MOMENTS LATER
Cheryl dribbles the ball at the top of the key. Robbie
stands in front of Cheryl.
ROBBIE
Ok, here I am. Show me what you
got.
Cheryl squints her eyes and everything slows.
Chalk lines appear on the court, detailing movement and
positioning.
One chalk line heads to the basket.
Cheryl smiles.
Cheryl follows a chalk line in front of Priest.
Cheryl bounces the ball along a chalk line to Priest.
Cheryl cuts the opposite direction and runs, following a
second chalk line.
Hans follows a chalk line that approaches Cheryl's line.
Cheryl uses Hans as a screen. Robbie bumps into Hans.
Cheryl curls around and has an open path to the basket.
Priest passes over his head, along a chalk line, to Cheryl.
Cheryl catches the ball and in one motion, finger rolls the
ball into the basket.
In real time, Cheryl lands on the court.
The crowd erupts.
Cheryl points at Robbie, who hangs his head.
Bunyan and Jerry, on the bench, clap their hands.
BUNYAN
Yeah, I gotta get her to teach me
that one.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
People exit from the stands and walk off the court. A ball
rolls on the court.
Skittles walks onto the court and picks up the ball.
Skittles dribbles the ball a few times.
Suddenly, Skittles grabs the ball and hunches her shoulders.
Skittles turns to see Cheryl watching from the sidelines.
Skittles motions to pass, but Cheryl waves her hands.
CHERYL
Shoot that.
Skittles looks confused.
CHERYL
Shoot it. You can make that shot.
Skittles stands straight and turns toward the basket.
Skittles bounces the ball a few times.
Skittles takes a shot, heaving the ball into the air.
The ball flies through the air and swishes through the rim.
Skittles bounces around happily.
SKITTLES
Hahaha!
Skittles turns toward Cheryl with a wide grin.
CHERYL
I knew you could do it.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Playaz - Cheryl - Act 2
EXT. THE CAGE - MOMENTS LATER
Robbie and Cheryl glare at one another. Priest, Hans, and
the other players look worried.
ROBBIE
You heard me, come here and play
some real ball.
Cheryl takes a step towards Robbie.
CHERYL
Big man picking on a girl...
Priest holds out his hand and stops Cheryl.
PRIEST
Enough of this. We all came to
ball, so let's ball.
Robbie and Cheryl turn away from each other and scowl.
MONTAGE - THE CAGE - DAY
Priest passes from the post to Cheryl. Cheryl shoots and
hits a jumper.
Cheryl fakes a shot, drawing the defense. Cheryl bounce
passes to Hans. Hans steps into the lane and lays in the
ball.
EXT. THE CAGE - MOMENTS LATER
Robbie takes a shot that bounces off the rim. Priest pushes
players out of the way and grabs the rebound.
Cheryl breaks out on the wing.
PRIEST
Heads up.
Priest baseball-passes the ball to Cheryl.
Cheryl dribbles the ball at the rim.
Robbie grits his teeth and runs back on defense.
Cheryl jumps into the air.
As Cheryl releases the ball, Robbie crashes into Cheryl.
Cheryl is knocked to the ground.
PRIEST
Hey, that ain't cool.
Robbie shrugs as he walks down the court.
ROBBIE
That's basketball. Ain't my fault
she's weak.
Cheryl, on the ground, looks up and glares at Robbie.
EXT. ST. JOSEPH'S - DAY
Young Cheryl, lying on the playground, looks up and glares.
Young Priest, the Fat Kid, and other players stand around
Cheryl.
FAT KID
That's basketball.
AL (O.S.)
No, that's just being a punk.
Everyone turns to see Al, younger, in shape, and with a
confident demeanor.
KIDS
A-train!
Al walks past the kids to Cheryl.
AL
You can just call me Al.
Al helps Cheryl to her feet.
AL
So, you can push her to the ground.
You're a big man now. You didn't
seem so big when she was schooling
you.
Al moves towards the Fat Kid, glaring at him.
AL
She shoots, passes, and moves
better than you. She got game.
All you got is the heart of a punk.
The Fat Kids looks from side to side with fear.
The other kids laugh at the Fat Kid.
AL
Now get yo butt off the court,
punk. Go home to yo momma.
The kids laugh harder.
The Fat Kid turns and runs away.
AL
Yeah, keep running. That'll be
good for you.
Al turns back to Cheryl, who looks at him with admiration. A
basketball sits on the ground past Cheryl.
Al walks past Cheryl towards the basketball. Cheryl looks
down.
The ball bounces to Cheryl.
Cheryl, looks up, and sees Al looking at her.
AL
Shoot that.
Cheryl, with the ball in her hands, looks uncertain.
Cheryl's feet are at the three-point-line.
AL
Shoot that. You can make that
shot.
Cheryl nods.
Cheryl dribbles the ball.
Cheryl takes a three pointer. The ball swishes through the
hoop.
AL
There we go, just like I told you.
Al turns around and walks off the court.
Young Priest stands near the fence. Young Paul (18), dressed
like a slick thug, walk outside the fence.
YOUNG PAUL
Hey, little brother.
Priest turns with a disapproving glance and nods to Young
Paul.
Al joins Young Paul and they walk down the street.
Cheryl, holding a ball, watches through the fence at Al and
Young Paul as they walk down the street.
EXT. THE CAGE - NIGHT
Cheryl, glaring through the fence, watches Robbie walk away
down the street.
Priest and Hans walk up behind her.
PRIEST
Come on, let it go.
CHERYL
This isn't fair.
HANS
He is just a...
CHERYL
Yeah, but he's right.
Cheryl pushes off the fence.
PRIEST
What do you mean, you were national
champ.
Cheryl starts walking away from Priest.
CHERYL
And what does it mean? I'm still
getting knocked around by punks and
I need guys to defend me. It's
just not fair.
PRIEST
Hey, where you going?
Cheryl stops and turn around.
PRIEST
We gotta practice.
Jerry limps up to Priest.
EXT. THE CAGE - MOMENTS LATER
Jerry dribbles gingerly on the court. Priest, Hans, and
Cheryl watch him.
HANS
Are you ok?
JERRY
One way to find out.
Jerry bounces the ball to Hans.
Jerry motions, "Come on."
Hans shrugs and dribbles the ball.
Hans crosses over in front of Jerry, who stays in front of
Hans.
Hans drives to Jerry's left. Jerry darts in and knocks the
ball loose.
The ball bounces to Priest, who looks unemotional.
PRIEST
Do it again.
Priest bounces the ball to Hans. Priest and Hans nod to each
other.
Hans dribbles the ball against Jerry, who defends Hans.
Hans dribbles to Jerry's right.
Jerry moves to his right and grimaces. Hans goes around
Jerry and lays in the ball.
Priest shakes his head. Jerry bites his lip.
PRIEST
Take it easy, Jerry, you're still
hurt. Let's see what you got,
Cheryl.
Cheryl walks to the paint and passes Jerry. Cheryl and Jerry
slap unenthusiastic hi-fives.
Cheryl glares and hunches down into a defensive position.
Hans dribbles the ball in front of Cheryl.
Hans crosses over and moves to Cheryl's left. Cheryl moves
to her side, but Hans goes around her and scores.
PRIEST
Again.
Hans dribbles the ball in front of Cheryl.
Cheryl grits her teeth.
Hans hesitation dribbles to Cheryl's right. Cheryl moves,
but Hans easily goes around her and dunks the ball.
Priest hangs his head.
Priest turns to Jerry.
PRIEST
Do what you can to get better.
You're still our man.
Cheryl turns away and kicks the ball into the fence.
Hans pats Cheryl on the shoulder.
HANS
It is alright...
Cheryl pulls away from Hans.
CHERYL
No! This just ain't fair.
Hans, Priest, and Jerry send worried looks at Cheryl.
Robbie and Cheryl glare at one another. Priest, Hans, and
the other players look worried.
ROBBIE
You heard me, come here and play
some real ball.
Cheryl takes a step towards Robbie.
CHERYL
Big man picking on a girl...
Priest holds out his hand and stops Cheryl.
PRIEST
Enough of this. We all came to
ball, so let's ball.
Robbie and Cheryl turn away from each other and scowl.
MONTAGE - THE CAGE - DAY
Priest passes from the post to Cheryl. Cheryl shoots and
hits a jumper.
Cheryl fakes a shot, drawing the defense. Cheryl bounce
passes to Hans. Hans steps into the lane and lays in the
ball.
EXT. THE CAGE - MOMENTS LATER
Robbie takes a shot that bounces off the rim. Priest pushes
players out of the way and grabs the rebound.
Cheryl breaks out on the wing.
PRIEST
Heads up.
Priest baseball-passes the ball to Cheryl.
Cheryl dribbles the ball at the rim.
Robbie grits his teeth and runs back on defense.
Cheryl jumps into the air.
As Cheryl releases the ball, Robbie crashes into Cheryl.
Cheryl is knocked to the ground.
PRIEST
Hey, that ain't cool.
Robbie shrugs as he walks down the court.
ROBBIE
That's basketball. Ain't my fault
she's weak.
Cheryl, on the ground, looks up and glares at Robbie.
EXT. ST. JOSEPH'S - DAY
Young Cheryl, lying on the playground, looks up and glares.
Young Priest, the Fat Kid, and other players stand around
Cheryl.
FAT KID
That's basketball.
AL (O.S.)
No, that's just being a punk.
Everyone turns to see Al, younger, in shape, and with a
confident demeanor.
KIDS
A-train!
Al walks past the kids to Cheryl.
AL
You can just call me Al.
Al helps Cheryl to her feet.
AL
So, you can push her to the ground.
You're a big man now. You didn't
seem so big when she was schooling
you.
Al moves towards the Fat Kid, glaring at him.
AL
She shoots, passes, and moves
better than you. She got game.
All you got is the heart of a punk.
The Fat Kids looks from side to side with fear.
The other kids laugh at the Fat Kid.
AL
Now get yo butt off the court,
punk. Go home to yo momma.
The kids laugh harder.
The Fat Kid turns and runs away.
AL
Yeah, keep running. That'll be
good for you.
Al turns back to Cheryl, who looks at him with admiration. A
basketball sits on the ground past Cheryl.
Al walks past Cheryl towards the basketball. Cheryl looks
down.
The ball bounces to Cheryl.
Cheryl, looks up, and sees Al looking at her.
AL
Shoot that.
Cheryl, with the ball in her hands, looks uncertain.
Cheryl's feet are at the three-point-line.
AL
Shoot that. You can make that
shot.
Cheryl nods.
Cheryl dribbles the ball.
Cheryl takes a three pointer. The ball swishes through the
hoop.
AL
There we go, just like I told you.
Al turns around and walks off the court.
Young Priest stands near the fence. Young Paul (18), dressed
like a slick thug, walk outside the fence.
YOUNG PAUL
Hey, little brother.
Priest turns with a disapproving glance and nods to Young
Paul.
Al joins Young Paul and they walk down the street.
Cheryl, holding a ball, watches through the fence at Al and
Young Paul as they walk down the street.
EXT. THE CAGE - NIGHT
Cheryl, glaring through the fence, watches Robbie walk away
down the street.
Priest and Hans walk up behind her.
PRIEST
Come on, let it go.
CHERYL
This isn't fair.
HANS
He is just a...
CHERYL
Yeah, but he's right.
Cheryl pushes off the fence.
PRIEST
What do you mean, you were national
champ.
Cheryl starts walking away from Priest.
CHERYL
And what does it mean? I'm still
getting knocked around by punks and
I need guys to defend me. It's
just not fair.
PRIEST
Hey, where you going?
Cheryl stops and turn around.
PRIEST
We gotta practice.
Jerry limps up to Priest.
EXT. THE CAGE - MOMENTS LATER
Jerry dribbles gingerly on the court. Priest, Hans, and
Cheryl watch him.
HANS
Are you ok?
JERRY
One way to find out.
Jerry bounces the ball to Hans.
Jerry motions, "Come on."
Hans shrugs and dribbles the ball.
Hans crosses over in front of Jerry, who stays in front of
Hans.
Hans drives to Jerry's left. Jerry darts in and knocks the
ball loose.
The ball bounces to Priest, who looks unemotional.
PRIEST
Do it again.
Priest bounces the ball to Hans. Priest and Hans nod to each
other.
Hans dribbles the ball against Jerry, who defends Hans.
Hans dribbles to Jerry's right.
Jerry moves to his right and grimaces. Hans goes around
Jerry and lays in the ball.
Priest shakes his head. Jerry bites his lip.
PRIEST
Take it easy, Jerry, you're still
hurt. Let's see what you got,
Cheryl.
Cheryl walks to the paint and passes Jerry. Cheryl and Jerry
slap unenthusiastic hi-fives.
Cheryl glares and hunches down into a defensive position.
Hans dribbles the ball in front of Cheryl.
Hans crosses over and moves to Cheryl's left. Cheryl moves
to her side, but Hans goes around her and scores.
PRIEST
Again.
Hans dribbles the ball in front of Cheryl.
Cheryl grits her teeth.
Hans hesitation dribbles to Cheryl's right. Cheryl moves,
but Hans easily goes around her and dunks the ball.
Priest hangs his head.
Priest turns to Jerry.
PRIEST
Do what you can to get better.
You're still our man.
Cheryl turns away and kicks the ball into the fence.
Hans pats Cheryl on the shoulder.
HANS
It is alright...
Cheryl pulls away from Hans.
CHERYL
No! This just ain't fair.
Hans, Priest, and Jerry send worried looks at Cheryl.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Playaz - Cheryl - Act 1
CAST LIST
Bones (19) - skinny, 6 foot black kid from the streets.
Pablo (17) - fat, 6-2 Hispanic kid
Priest (35) - hulking 6-10 black police officer
Jerry (23) - 5-10 Chinese guy with a goatee
Cheryl (31) - 6-0 black lady who's a lawyer by day.
Hans (25) - 6-8 German man who dresses stylish
Bunyan (18) - 7-2 with wild red hair and dressed from the
70s.
Skittles (9) - shy brunette girl who watches excitedly.
DJ (26) - short fellow with a loud voice
Al (60) - a homeless man
EXT. ST. JOSEPH'S - DAY
A brick school building is fronted by a deserted and eerily
quiet schoolyard. A light wind blows the flags and
basketball hoops.
AL (V.O.)
In the jungle, the big cats learn
that the only fighting for them is
themselves.
There is a sound of a school bell.
Masses of children pour out into the schoolyard, running to
the basketball courts or jumping rope. The sounds of
children playing fill the air.
AL (V.O.)
This jungle is no different.
YOUNG CHERYL (9), lanky and wearing glasses, carries her
books through the chaotic schoolyard.
Young Cheryl walks with her head down as kids run about
around her.
A FAT KID, sneering, bumps into Young Cheryl.
YOUNG CHERYL
Watch it!
FAT KID
What, can you see where you're
going four eyes?
Fat Kid makes fake glasses on his face with his fingers.
FAT KID
Nyah nyah.
YOUNG CHERYL
Oh, stop it.
Young Cheryl turns and begins walking away from the Fat Kid.
FAT KID
(whiny)
Oh stop it, haha.
(normal)
You got all those brains and that's
the best you can do?
Young Cheryl glares back at the Fat Kid but keeps walking
away.
Young Cheryl looks down at the ground as she storms forward.
Suddenly, a basketball hits Young Cheryl in the shoulder.
Young Cheryl looks around with a startled look.
YOUNG PRIEST (14), just starting to get big, jogs towards
Young Cheryl. Behind Young Priest is a basketball hoop and
several kids looking towards Young Cheryl.
YOUNG PRIEST
Yo, help?
Young Priest claps his hands together.
Young Cheryl glares at Young Priest.
Cheryl grabs the ball.
YOUNG CHERYL
You want this?
Young Cheryl baseball passes the ball towards the basketball
hoop.
CHERYL
Why don't you go get it!
Young Priest looks surprised. Young Cheryl turns away from
Young Priest and storms away.
Behind Young Cheryl, the ball swishes through the hoop.
Everyone around looks at Young Cheryl with a look of
amazement as she storms away. Young Cheryl glares ahead.
AL (V.O.)
The jungle changes its colors over
time.
INT. COURTROOM - DAY
Cheryl, now dressed professionally, glares ahead.
CHERYL
So, in closing, the defendant was
at the scene of the crime, had both
the opportunity and the motive to
commit the crime, and found himself
living a much better life after the
crime. That is what the evidence
shows, period.
Cheryl, standing in front of the Plaintiff's chair, looks
around the courtroom. The jury, the judge, lawyer #1, the
defense, and the defendant all look amazed.
The DISTRICT ATTORNEY, a well-dressed man sitting behind
Cheryl, sits agape.
EXT. COURT HALLWAY - DAY
Cheryl strides through the hallway with her head held high.
Lawyer #1 walks toward Cheryl.
LAWYER #1
Well done.
CHERYL
Thank you.
The District Attorney comes along side Cheryl and walks with
her.
DISTRICT ATTORNEY
That was quite a game plan you had
in there. Some people in City Hall
think you could really be going
places with planning like that.
CHERYL
Oh, which people?
The District Attorney points at himself.
DISTRICT ATTORNEY
This district attorney here, for
starters.
Cheryl smiles and stops.
The District Attorney smiles and walks on.
EXT. CITY STREETS - DAY
Cheryl strolls through a crowded street as the sun shines
brightly.
Cheryl walks to a a busy intersection. The sound of trucks
and car horns fill the air.
KID #1 (O.S.)
Haha, burned you!
Cheryl turns to see Kid #1 dribbling a basketball past Kid
#2.
KID #1
Unstoppable!
Cheryl calmly reaches her hand to the side.
Cheryl steals the ball from Kid #1. Kid #1 reaches to
dribble, but the ball is gone.
Kid #1 looks around with a confused expression.
CHERYL
Unstoppable?
Cheryl smiles at Kid #1 and Kid #2.
KID #2
Wow, you got some skills, lady.
Cheryl looks like she's thinking as she passes the ball to
Kid #2.
CHERYL
Thank you.
EXT. THE CAGE - DAY
Priest, Hans, and other players run on the court inside the
Cage. Cheryl, dressed to play basketball, walks up to the
outside of the fence.
CHERYL
Hey, Priest, who's got next?
PRIEST
That'd be you, I don't want to be
sued.
Priest and a few other players laugh.
Cheryl walks onto the court.
ROBBIE, a taller, more athletic Pablo, starts giggling.
PRIEST
Oh, what was that?
CHERYL
I think some punk's challenging me.
Robbie sneers at Cheryl.
ROBBIE
Shouldn't you be buying shoes right
now?
Cheryl glares at Robbie.
PRIEST
Oh, it's on.
MONTAGE - THE CAGE - DAY
Cheryl shoots a three, swishing it through the hoop.
Robbie shoots a three, and it rims out.
Cheryl shoots a three, swishing it through.
Robbie shoots a three, bricking it badly.
CHERYL
Bank.
Cheryl shoots a three, banking it into the hoop.
Robbie shoots a three - airball.
Priest and other players laugh.
EXT. THE CAGE - MOMENTS LATER
Robbie sulks as the other players run to congratulate Cheryl.
Cheryl slaps hi-fives.
CHERYL
Hey, that's how you get to be
national champ.
PLAYERS
Oooo.
Robbie turns toward Cheryl and holds out his chest.
ROBBIE
Well, that was real nice. But too
bad no one cares about the WNBA.
Cheryl glares at Robbie.
ROBBIE
That ain't real ball. If you want
to play some real ball, come stand
over here.
Robbie points at the key.
Cheryl's eyes squint, and Priest looks worried.
Bones (19) - skinny, 6 foot black kid from the streets.
Pablo (17) - fat, 6-2 Hispanic kid
Priest (35) - hulking 6-10 black police officer
Jerry (23) - 5-10 Chinese guy with a goatee
Cheryl (31) - 6-0 black lady who's a lawyer by day.
Hans (25) - 6-8 German man who dresses stylish
Bunyan (18) - 7-2 with wild red hair and dressed from the
70s.
Skittles (9) - shy brunette girl who watches excitedly.
DJ (26) - short fellow with a loud voice
Al (60) - a homeless man
EXT. ST. JOSEPH'S - DAY
A brick school building is fronted by a deserted and eerily
quiet schoolyard. A light wind blows the flags and
basketball hoops.
AL (V.O.)
In the jungle, the big cats learn
that the only fighting for them is
themselves.
There is a sound of a school bell.
Masses of children pour out into the schoolyard, running to
the basketball courts or jumping rope. The sounds of
children playing fill the air.
AL (V.O.)
This jungle is no different.
YOUNG CHERYL (9), lanky and wearing glasses, carries her
books through the chaotic schoolyard.
Young Cheryl walks with her head down as kids run about
around her.
A FAT KID, sneering, bumps into Young Cheryl.
YOUNG CHERYL
Watch it!
FAT KID
What, can you see where you're
going four eyes?
Fat Kid makes fake glasses on his face with his fingers.
FAT KID
Nyah nyah.
YOUNG CHERYL
Oh, stop it.
Young Cheryl turns and begins walking away from the Fat Kid.
FAT KID
(whiny)
Oh stop it, haha.
(normal)
You got all those brains and that's
the best you can do?
Young Cheryl glares back at the Fat Kid but keeps walking
away.
Young Cheryl looks down at the ground as she storms forward.
Suddenly, a basketball hits Young Cheryl in the shoulder.
Young Cheryl looks around with a startled look.
YOUNG PRIEST (14), just starting to get big, jogs towards
Young Cheryl. Behind Young Priest is a basketball hoop and
several kids looking towards Young Cheryl.
YOUNG PRIEST
Yo, help?
Young Priest claps his hands together.
Young Cheryl glares at Young Priest.
Cheryl grabs the ball.
YOUNG CHERYL
You want this?
Young Cheryl baseball passes the ball towards the basketball
hoop.
CHERYL
Why don't you go get it!
Young Priest looks surprised. Young Cheryl turns away from
Young Priest and storms away.
Behind Young Cheryl, the ball swishes through the hoop.
Everyone around looks at Young Cheryl with a look of
amazement as she storms away. Young Cheryl glares ahead.
AL (V.O.)
The jungle changes its colors over
time.
INT. COURTROOM - DAY
Cheryl, now dressed professionally, glares ahead.
CHERYL
So, in closing, the defendant was
at the scene of the crime, had both
the opportunity and the motive to
commit the crime, and found himself
living a much better life after the
crime. That is what the evidence
shows, period.
Cheryl, standing in front of the Plaintiff's chair, looks
around the courtroom. The jury, the judge, lawyer #1, the
defense, and the defendant all look amazed.
The DISTRICT ATTORNEY, a well-dressed man sitting behind
Cheryl, sits agape.
EXT. COURT HALLWAY - DAY
Cheryl strides through the hallway with her head held high.
Lawyer #1 walks toward Cheryl.
LAWYER #1
Well done.
CHERYL
Thank you.
The District Attorney comes along side Cheryl and walks with
her.
DISTRICT ATTORNEY
That was quite a game plan you had
in there. Some people in City Hall
think you could really be going
places with planning like that.
CHERYL
Oh, which people?
The District Attorney points at himself.
DISTRICT ATTORNEY
This district attorney here, for
starters.
Cheryl smiles and stops.
The District Attorney smiles and walks on.
EXT. CITY STREETS - DAY
Cheryl strolls through a crowded street as the sun shines
brightly.
Cheryl walks to a a busy intersection. The sound of trucks
and car horns fill the air.
KID #1 (O.S.)
Haha, burned you!
Cheryl turns to see Kid #1 dribbling a basketball past Kid
#2.
KID #1
Unstoppable!
Cheryl calmly reaches her hand to the side.
Cheryl steals the ball from Kid #1. Kid #1 reaches to
dribble, but the ball is gone.
Kid #1 looks around with a confused expression.
CHERYL
Unstoppable?
Cheryl smiles at Kid #1 and Kid #2.
KID #2
Wow, you got some skills, lady.
Cheryl looks like she's thinking as she passes the ball to
Kid #2.
CHERYL
Thank you.
EXT. THE CAGE - DAY
Priest, Hans, and other players run on the court inside the
Cage. Cheryl, dressed to play basketball, walks up to the
outside of the fence.
CHERYL
Hey, Priest, who's got next?
PRIEST
That'd be you, I don't want to be
sued.
Priest and a few other players laugh.
Cheryl walks onto the court.
ROBBIE, a taller, more athletic Pablo, starts giggling.
PRIEST
Oh, what was that?
CHERYL
I think some punk's challenging me.
Robbie sneers at Cheryl.
ROBBIE
Shouldn't you be buying shoes right
now?
Cheryl glares at Robbie.
PRIEST
Oh, it's on.
MONTAGE - THE CAGE - DAY
Cheryl shoots a three, swishing it through the hoop.
Robbie shoots a three, and it rims out.
Cheryl shoots a three, swishing it through.
Robbie shoots a three, bricking it badly.
CHERYL
Bank.
Cheryl shoots a three, banking it into the hoop.
Robbie shoots a three - airball.
Priest and other players laugh.
EXT. THE CAGE - MOMENTS LATER
Robbie sulks as the other players run to congratulate Cheryl.
Cheryl slaps hi-fives.
CHERYL
Hey, that's how you get to be
national champ.
PLAYERS
Oooo.
Robbie turns toward Cheryl and holds out his chest.
ROBBIE
Well, that was real nice. But too
bad no one cares about the WNBA.
Cheryl glares at Robbie.
ROBBIE
That ain't real ball. If you want
to play some real ball, come stand
over here.
Robbie points at the key.
Cheryl's eyes squint, and Priest looks worried.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Playaz - Jerry - Act 3
EXT. RUCKER PARK - LATER
Jerry stands outside the court and paces as he talks.
JERRY
I can't believe this! I win the
game and I get this? I played the
best, right? Everyone see that. I
make the other team look stupid.
Don't you agree?
Jerry is standing in front of Skittles, who sits on a swing
set.
Skittles looks like she's thinking.
Skittles hops off the swing.
Skittles takes Jerry's hand and lead him around the
playground, skipping and smiling.
JERRY
Hey, wait, what are you doing?
Skittles keeps smiling and skipping, dragging Jerry around
the playground.
Jerry laughs.
Skittles looks up at Jerry.
Skittles lets go, takes a step away, and frowns.
Skittles runs to Jerry, grabs his hand, hops around, and
smiles.
Skittles points to a sign that reads, "So happy together."
JERRY
Oh, I see what you mean.
Skittles nods excessively.
Jerry hangs his head.
Skittles tugs on Jerry's hand.
Skittles puts something in Jerry's hand. Then Skittles skips
away.
Jerry opens his hand. On Jerry's palm are three M&Ms with
the lettering scraped off so it reads MVP.
Jerry looks up and smiles.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
The stands are full of cheering fans. A banner reads,
"Annual Goat Classic."
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled))
Like Ali-Fraizer, we got a rematch.
INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
A television set shows the Rucker court. On the television,
Bones, Bunyan, and Pablo wave.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
We got last year's champs.
On the television, Priest, Hans, and Jerry sit on the
sidelines.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
Versus last years runner ups.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
Priest, Hans, Bones, Bunyan, and Pablo run onto the court.
Jerry lingers a bit on the sideline. The air is full of
cheering.
Jerry looks up with a sneer on his face.
The ball flies to Jerry who dribbles up court.
Pablo guards Jerry, with Bones guarding Hans.
Hans waves his arms in the air.
PABLO
Come on, let's see what you got.
JERRY
You can't guard me last week. You
can't guard me now.
Pablo shades to Jerry's left.
Jerry drives to his right, around Pablo.
Immediately, Bones rushes in and double-teams Jerry.
Jerry lunges to the side and throws up a wild shot.
Bunyan streaks through the air and swats Jerry's shot into
the seats.
The crowd ooos. Jerry slumps a little.
Bunyan waves his finger at Jerry.
Bunyan turns and bumps elbows with Bones.
Priest moves to the sideline and picks up the ball.
PRIEST
That's not the kind of highlight
you want.
Priest frowns and throws the ball to Jerry.
MONTAGE: RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
Pablo and Bones double-team Jerry, stealing the ball.
Jerry dribbles into Bunyan. Jerry turns and Bones steal the
ball.
Jerry is trapped by Bunyan and Bones. Jerry throws the ball
into the crowd.
There is the sound of laughter as Jerry hangs his head.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
Jerry dribbles the ball at the top of the key. Pablo, Bones,
and Bunyan smirk at Jerry. Jerry's eyes dart from side to
side.
Cheryl, on the sideline, jumps to her feet.
CHERYL
Timeout!
PRIEST
Yo, timeout!
A whistle sounds and the players relax.
BONES
Hey, don't take too long.
Bones, Pablo, and Bunyan laugh as they head to the sideline
away from Cheryl.
Jerry slumps toward Cheryl.
CHERYL
Sit down, Jerry.
Jerry plops onto the bench.
CHERYL
Look, they got you scouted.
Jerry looks confused.
CHERYL
It's what we do in organized ball
when we're going against someone
good. We watch them, find out what
they like to do...
HANS
And that's why they're ready to
stop you.
Priest looks away from Jerry.
PRIEST
Maybe we need you, Cheryl.
Jerry holds his head in his hands.
Cheryl looks at Priest.
CHERYL
No, you have a better chance with
Jerry.
Jerry looks up in surprise.
CHERYL
Come over here.
Cheryl and Jerry walk away from the sideline.
CHERYL
Look, I know what's going on with
your company, so I'm giving you a
chance. It's got to be a lot of
pressure.
Jerry frowns and sighs.
CHERYL
You want to win so you'll get good
airtime.
JERRY
But what can I do, you say they
have me scouted.
CHERYL
Yeah, that means they know you take
the ball to the hole. Just take it
somewhere else.
Jerry looks like he's thinking.
Cheryl smiles.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
Jerry dribbles the ball at the top of the key. Pablo, Bones,
and Bunyan guard him and Priest and Hans. Hans flanks out to
the corner.
Jerry looks up at the rim.
Bones, guarding Jerry, smirks.
Jerry takes a step toward the rim. The defense moves towards
Jerry.
Jerry veers off towards the opposite corner from Hans. The
defense chases Jerry, leaving Priest and Hans.
Jerry, moving to the corner, notices that Hans is unguarded.
Jerry throws the ball under the basket toward Hans.
Hans catches and shoots. The ball swishes through the hoop.
Jerry points at Hans.
Priest flashes a surprised smile.
MONTAGE: RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
Jerry darts into the key, but pulls back quickly to the wing.
Pablo chases after Jerry.
Jerry darts to the side and throws the ball back to Hans, who
is open. Hans shoots.
Bones shakes his head.
Jerry drives to the side of the key, drawing Bunyan. Jerry
throws the ball into the air. Priest catches the ball and
dunks it with authority.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
Jerry dribbles the ball at the top of the key. Bones,
dripping sweat, guards Jerry. Hans, Priest, Bunyan, and
Pablo run about in the frontcourt.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
Not looking good for the champions.
Priest moves to set a screen for Jerry. Bunyan follows
Priest.
Bunyan and Bones make eye contact. Bones nods.
Jerry moves around Priest. Priest screens Bones.
Bunyan jumps around Priest, beating Jerry around Priest.
Jerry looks at the rim. No one stands between Jerry and the
rim.
Jerry crosses over, moves between Priest and Bunyan, and
dribbles toward the rim.
Bones steps around Priest to defend Jerry.
As Jerry steps around Priest, Jerry steps onto Bones' foot.
JERRY
Aaaa!
Jerry crumples to the ground.
Priest grabs the ball.
PRIEST
Timeout, timeout.
The crowd hushes as the players gather around Jerry.
JERRY
Aaaaa...
Jerry rolls about.
Hans and Bones help Jerry to his feet.
PRIEST
Hey, can you walk.
Jerry takes a step but crumples and falls. Hans and Bones
hold up Jerry.
Hans shakes his head.
PRIEST
Sorry, man, you were playing real
good too.
Hans and Bones help Jerry to the bench.
The crowd applauds as Jerry slides onto the bench next to
Cheryl.
PRIEST
(to Cheryl)
Come on, we need you.
Cheryl gives Jerry a sad look as she walks onto the court.
Bones pats Jerry on the back.
BONES
Sorry about that, man.
Jerry nods.
INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
On the TV, Jerry holds his head in his hands as the players
run on the court.
A bunch of Chinese people watch the TV. The Chinese people
frown.
CHINESE MAN
Oh no!
The Chinese people look sad as they watch Jerry slumped on
the bench.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - LATER
The crowd exits the stands. Bones, Bunyan, and Pablo cheer
on one side of the court. Cheryl, Priest, and Hans slump
towards Jerry, who sits on the bench.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
A close game tonight, but Bones'
boys win again.
Priest plops on the bench next to Jerry.
PRIEST
How's your foot?
JERRY
It's ok. I can play in a couple
days. I just need another chance.
Priest nods.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
Since we're double elimination, we
might see round three.
Jerry smiles.
EXT. SHANGHAI BASKETBALL COURT - DAY
Players run on the court as people walk past ads with Jerry's
face on them.
AL (V.O.)
Life is interesting sometimes.
The Chinese Man and Woman from the Living Room walk down a
street.
CHINESE MAN
I wish he didn't get hurt.
CHINESE WOMAN
Yes, I wanted to see someone from
Shanghai win. He seemed familiar
too.
The Chinese Man and Woman stop in front of Jerry's ad.
CHINESE MAN
Haha, that's him.
CHINESE WOMAN
Quite a star, on TV and selling
condos.
The Man looks closer at the ad.
MAN
Let's give them a look. We need a
good real estate agent.
The man takes out a pen and paper.
AL (V.O.)
You can do everything wrong, but
still come out alright.
All over the area, people look at Jerry's ad.
People point at Jerry's ad.
People take notes while looking at the ad.
THE END
Jerry stands outside the court and paces as he talks.
JERRY
I can't believe this! I win the
game and I get this? I played the
best, right? Everyone see that. I
make the other team look stupid.
Don't you agree?
Jerry is standing in front of Skittles, who sits on a swing
set.
Skittles looks like she's thinking.
Skittles hops off the swing.
Skittles takes Jerry's hand and lead him around the
playground, skipping and smiling.
JERRY
Hey, wait, what are you doing?
Skittles keeps smiling and skipping, dragging Jerry around
the playground.
Jerry laughs.
Skittles looks up at Jerry.
Skittles lets go, takes a step away, and frowns.
Skittles runs to Jerry, grabs his hand, hops around, and
smiles.
Skittles points to a sign that reads, "So happy together."
JERRY
Oh, I see what you mean.
Skittles nods excessively.
Jerry hangs his head.
Skittles tugs on Jerry's hand.
Skittles puts something in Jerry's hand. Then Skittles skips
away.
Jerry opens his hand. On Jerry's palm are three M&Ms with
the lettering scraped off so it reads MVP.
Jerry looks up and smiles.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
The stands are full of cheering fans. A banner reads,
"Annual Goat Classic."
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled))
Like Ali-Fraizer, we got a rematch.
INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
A television set shows the Rucker court. On the television,
Bones, Bunyan, and Pablo wave.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
We got last year's champs.
On the television, Priest, Hans, and Jerry sit on the
sidelines.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
Versus last years runner ups.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
Priest, Hans, Bones, Bunyan, and Pablo run onto the court.
Jerry lingers a bit on the sideline. The air is full of
cheering.
Jerry looks up with a sneer on his face.
The ball flies to Jerry who dribbles up court.
Pablo guards Jerry, with Bones guarding Hans.
Hans waves his arms in the air.
PABLO
Come on, let's see what you got.
JERRY
You can't guard me last week. You
can't guard me now.
Pablo shades to Jerry's left.
Jerry drives to his right, around Pablo.
Immediately, Bones rushes in and double-teams Jerry.
Jerry lunges to the side and throws up a wild shot.
Bunyan streaks through the air and swats Jerry's shot into
the seats.
The crowd ooos. Jerry slumps a little.
Bunyan waves his finger at Jerry.
Bunyan turns and bumps elbows with Bones.
Priest moves to the sideline and picks up the ball.
PRIEST
That's not the kind of highlight
you want.
Priest frowns and throws the ball to Jerry.
MONTAGE: RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
Pablo and Bones double-team Jerry, stealing the ball.
Jerry dribbles into Bunyan. Jerry turns and Bones steal the
ball.
Jerry is trapped by Bunyan and Bones. Jerry throws the ball
into the crowd.
There is the sound of laughter as Jerry hangs his head.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
Jerry dribbles the ball at the top of the key. Pablo, Bones,
and Bunyan smirk at Jerry. Jerry's eyes dart from side to
side.
Cheryl, on the sideline, jumps to her feet.
CHERYL
Timeout!
PRIEST
Yo, timeout!
A whistle sounds and the players relax.
BONES
Hey, don't take too long.
Bones, Pablo, and Bunyan laugh as they head to the sideline
away from Cheryl.
Jerry slumps toward Cheryl.
CHERYL
Sit down, Jerry.
Jerry plops onto the bench.
CHERYL
Look, they got you scouted.
Jerry looks confused.
CHERYL
It's what we do in organized ball
when we're going against someone
good. We watch them, find out what
they like to do...
HANS
And that's why they're ready to
stop you.
Priest looks away from Jerry.
PRIEST
Maybe we need you, Cheryl.
Jerry holds his head in his hands.
Cheryl looks at Priest.
CHERYL
No, you have a better chance with
Jerry.
Jerry looks up in surprise.
CHERYL
Come over here.
Cheryl and Jerry walk away from the sideline.
CHERYL
Look, I know what's going on with
your company, so I'm giving you a
chance. It's got to be a lot of
pressure.
Jerry frowns and sighs.
CHERYL
You want to win so you'll get good
airtime.
JERRY
But what can I do, you say they
have me scouted.
CHERYL
Yeah, that means they know you take
the ball to the hole. Just take it
somewhere else.
Jerry looks like he's thinking.
Cheryl smiles.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
Jerry dribbles the ball at the top of the key. Pablo, Bones,
and Bunyan guard him and Priest and Hans. Hans flanks out to
the corner.
Jerry looks up at the rim.
Bones, guarding Jerry, smirks.
Jerry takes a step toward the rim. The defense moves towards
Jerry.
Jerry veers off towards the opposite corner from Hans. The
defense chases Jerry, leaving Priest and Hans.
Jerry, moving to the corner, notices that Hans is unguarded.
Jerry throws the ball under the basket toward Hans.
Hans catches and shoots. The ball swishes through the hoop.
Jerry points at Hans.
Priest flashes a surprised smile.
MONTAGE: RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
Jerry darts into the key, but pulls back quickly to the wing.
Pablo chases after Jerry.
Jerry darts to the side and throws the ball back to Hans, who
is open. Hans shoots.
Bones shakes his head.
Jerry drives to the side of the key, drawing Bunyan. Jerry
throws the ball into the air. Priest catches the ball and
dunks it with authority.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - NIGHT
Jerry dribbles the ball at the top of the key. Bones,
dripping sweat, guards Jerry. Hans, Priest, Bunyan, and
Pablo run about in the frontcourt.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
Not looking good for the champions.
Priest moves to set a screen for Jerry. Bunyan follows
Priest.
Bunyan and Bones make eye contact. Bones nods.
Jerry moves around Priest. Priest screens Bones.
Bunyan jumps around Priest, beating Jerry around Priest.
Jerry looks at the rim. No one stands between Jerry and the
rim.
Jerry crosses over, moves between Priest and Bunyan, and
dribbles toward the rim.
Bones steps around Priest to defend Jerry.
As Jerry steps around Priest, Jerry steps onto Bones' foot.
JERRY
Aaaa!
Jerry crumples to the ground.
Priest grabs the ball.
PRIEST
Timeout, timeout.
The crowd hushes as the players gather around Jerry.
JERRY
Aaaaa...
Jerry rolls about.
Hans and Bones help Jerry to his feet.
PRIEST
Hey, can you walk.
Jerry takes a step but crumples and falls. Hans and Bones
hold up Jerry.
Hans shakes his head.
PRIEST
Sorry, man, you were playing real
good too.
Hans and Bones help Jerry to the bench.
The crowd applauds as Jerry slides onto the bench next to
Cheryl.
PRIEST
(to Cheryl)
Come on, we need you.
Cheryl gives Jerry a sad look as she walks onto the court.
Bones pats Jerry on the back.
BONES
Sorry about that, man.
Jerry nods.
INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
On the TV, Jerry holds his head in his hands as the players
run on the court.
A bunch of Chinese people watch the TV. The Chinese people
frown.
CHINESE MAN
Oh no!
The Chinese people look sad as they watch Jerry slumped on
the bench.
EXT. RUCKER PARK - LATER
The crowd exits the stands. Bones, Bunyan, and Pablo cheer
on one side of the court. Cheryl, Priest, and Hans slump
towards Jerry, who sits on the bench.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
A close game tonight, but Bones'
boys win again.
Priest plops on the bench next to Jerry.
PRIEST
How's your foot?
JERRY
It's ok. I can play in a couple
days. I just need another chance.
Priest nods.
DJ (V.O.)
(muffled)
Since we're double elimination, we
might see round three.
Jerry smiles.
EXT. SHANGHAI BASKETBALL COURT - DAY
Players run on the court as people walk past ads with Jerry's
face on them.
AL (V.O.)
Life is interesting sometimes.
The Chinese Man and Woman from the Living Room walk down a
street.
CHINESE MAN
I wish he didn't get hurt.
CHINESE WOMAN
Yes, I wanted to see someone from
Shanghai win. He seemed familiar
too.
The Chinese Man and Woman stop in front of Jerry's ad.
CHINESE MAN
Haha, that's him.
CHINESE WOMAN
Quite a star, on TV and selling
condos.
The Man looks closer at the ad.
MAN
Let's give them a look. We need a
good real estate agent.
The man takes out a pen and paper.
AL (V.O.)
You can do everything wrong, but
still come out alright.
All over the area, people look at Jerry's ad.
People point at Jerry's ad.
People take notes while looking at the ad.
THE END
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