"BILLY AND GRAMPS"

 

                           by

 

                     Charles Deemer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                     3550 SW Pomona St.

                                     Portland, OR 97219-7518

                                     (800) 294-7176

                                     cdeemer@yahoo.com


 

 

 

FADE IN:

 

 

EXT. CITY - DAY

 

A SERIES OF SHOTS

 

City life.

 

--a clogged freeway at rush hour.

 

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

 

--busy city streets. Buses, taxis.

 

 

EXT. MEDICAL CENTER - DAY

 

A full parking lot.

 

A public bus pulls up.

 

 

INT. CLINIC - EXAM ROOM - DAY

 

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

 

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

 

                         DOCTOR

             I'm giving you stronger pain

             medication.

 

Emil takes the slip of paper.

 

                         EMIL

             Tell me straight, doc. How long?

 

                         DOCTOR

             In the best of worlds, three,

             four months.

 

                         EMIL

             In the worst?

 

                         DOCTOR

             I can get you in a hospice, Emil.

             You'd be more comfortable there.

 

                         EMIL

             In other words, any time after I

             leave here. Does it come gradually

             or do I fall over?


                                                            2.

 

 

                         DOCTOR

             It's impossible to predict

             something like this. I'll call

             you later this week about the

             hospice.

 

 

INT. CLINIC - PHARMACY - DAY

 

Emil sits waiting for his prescription. Flipping through a

magazine.

 

WANDA, 50s, approaches.

 

                         WANDA

             Professor Collins?

 

Emil doesn't seem to recognize her.

 

                         WANDA

             Wanda McDonald. I took American

             Literature from you maybe fifteen

             years ago.

 

                         EMIL

                  (distant)

             How are you?

 

                         WANDA

             I'm fine. I want to tell you how

             much you changed my life. I was

             so scared coming back to school

             after so long. You inspired me to

             keep at it. You were so

             inspirational.

 

Emil looks embarrassed.

 

                         EMIL

             Well, I'm going to assume you

             graduated then.

 

                         WANDA

             I went on and got my Masters. I

             teach American Lit at the

             community college. You're my

             model of what a teacher should be.

 

                         VOICE ON SPEAKER

             Emil Collins.

 

Emil stands up. He still looks embarrassed.


                                                            3.

 

 

                         EMIL

             I'm glad it all worked out.

 

He heads for the counter.

 

 

INT. CLINIC - FRONT DESK - DAY

 

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

passes the front desk.

 

ROSE, 20s, the secretary, sees him.

 

                         ROSE

             No poetry today, Professor Collins?

 

Emil stops and turns.

 

                         EMIL

             I almost forgot. Here's one. "As

             long as you and I have arms and

             lips which are for kissing and to

             sing with, who cares if some one-

             eyed son-of-a-bitch invents an

             instrument to measure Spring

             with?" E.E. Cummings.

 

                         ROSE

             Now my day's complete.

 

Rose smiles as Emil exits.

 

 

EXT. CLINIC - DAY

 

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

 

He closes his eyes. Another deep breath.

 

 

INT. TAVERN - DAY

 

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

 

                         WALLY

             That's terrible news!

 

                         EMIL

             Sshh, I don't want the whole

             galaxy to know. It's not as bad

             as you think. I've lived a good

             life, and the world's going to

             hell in a hand basket. I'm ready

             to go.


                                                            4.

 

 

                         WALLY

             Don't say that.

 

                         EMIL

             I just did.

 

                         WALLY

             What are you going to do?

 

                         EMIL

             That's what I've been thinking

             about. Maybe take a trip. I'm not

             sure.

 

 

EXT. NEIGHBORHOOD - STREET - DAY

 

A bus pulls to the curb. Emil gets off.

 

 

EXT. NEIGHBORHOOD - RHODES HOUSE - DAY

 

Upper-end homes along a shaded street.

 

BILLY RHODES, teens, is mowing the front lawn.

 

Emil slowly approaches.

 

Billy turns off the lawn mower.

 

                         BILLY

             Hey, Gramps! How'd it go?

 

                         EMIL

             I've got the heart of a linebacker.

 

                         BILLY

             You should've called. I would've

             picked you up.

 

                         EMIL

             You would've, would you? How

             would you manage that?

 

                         BILLY

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

             far. And on the way back, you'd

             be in the car, so driving with my

             learner's permit would be legal.

 

                         EMIL

             Next time I have to get somewhere,

             I'll let you know.


                                                            5.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - DINING ROOM - NIGHT

 

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

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

and Billy's older sister, SARA, 19.

 

                         MARTI

             What did the doctor have to say,

             Dad?

 

                         EMIL

             I have the heart of a marathon

             runner.

 

                         BILLY

             And a linebacker.

 

                         EMIL

                  (winking at him)

             That, too.

 

                         MARTI

             Your blood pressure's good?

             Nothing out of order?

 

                         EMIL

             Everything's out of order. It's

             called old age.

 

                         MARTI

             I'm allowed to worry about you.

 

                         DON

                  (to Marti)

             Change of subject. Are you

             telling her or am I?

 

                         SARA

             Telling me what?

 

                         MARTI

             We decided to spend a week at the

             beach. We're putting you in

             charge. Think you can handle it?

 

Sara lights up.

 

                         DON

             And no parties. You keep an eye

             on her, Billy.


                                                            6.

 

 

                         SARA

             Dad, I'm a sophomore in college.

             Don't treat me like I'm in high

             school.

 

                         DON

             As long as you're home for the

             summer, you play by the house rules.

 

                         SARA

             Yes, I can handle it. I'll even

             cook for these comedians.

 

                         EMIL

             I can't wait.

 

 

EXT. RHODES HOUSE - DRIVEWAY - DAY

 

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

behind the wheel, waiting for Marti to get in.

 

                         MARTI

             Give me a hug.

 

She hugs Billy, then Sara.

 

                         MARTI

             No parties. I mean it.

 

                         SARA

             Mother, please.

 

                         MARTI

             I'm calling to check on you.

 

                         DON

             Marti...

 

                         MARTI

             We'll be home next Monday night.

             It may be late.

 

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

 

And they are gone.

 

                         BILLY

             Are you really going to cook?

 

                         SARA

             What I'm going to do, kiddo, is

             make a deal with you.


                                                            7.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - SARA'S BEDROOM - DAY

 

Sara is packing a tote bag. Billy watches.

 

                         SARA

             I'll be back Monday.

 

                         BILLY

             What time?

 

                         SARA

             I don't know. Afternoon.

 

                         BILLY

             How are we going to eat? I don't

             think Gramps knows how to cook.

 

                         SARA

             Gramps has money. He'll take you

             out every night.

 

                         BILLY

             Shouldn't I get something for not

             telling mom?

 

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

bill.

 

                         SARA

             Don't ask for more because it's

             all I have.

 

                         BILLY

             Are you going to have sex with him?

 

 

EXT. RHODES HOUSE - DRIVEWAY - DAY

 

Sara with her bag, waiting in the driveway.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - DAY

 

Emil at the front window. Billy joins him.

 

                         EMIL

             Where's Sara going?

 

                         BILLY

             She's taking off with her boyfriend.

 

                         EMIL

             Your mother know about this?


                                                            8.

 

 

                         BILLY

             No way.

 

Emil studies him.

 

                         EMIL

             Sara bought you off. How much did

             you get?

 

                         BILLY

             Twenty bucks.

 

                         EMIL

             You come too cheap, lad.

 

                         BILLY

             And the keys to Mom's car. Want

             to go for a ride later?

 

 

EXT. RHODES HOUSE - DRIVEWAY - DAY

 

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

 

Sara climbs in and they're off.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - DAY

 

Billy and Emil watch Sara leave.

 

                         BILLY

             They're going to have sex.

 

                         EMIL

             Sex? Remind me what that is again.

 

Billy grins and Emil messes his hair.

 

 

EXT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

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

 

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

 

 

INT. ICE CREAM PARLOR - DAY

 

They sit at a table over ice cream sundaes.


                                                            9.

 

 

                         EMIL

             I need to take a little trip.

             Since you're such a great

             chauffeur, how'd you like to come

             along?

 

                         BILLY

             Where to?

 

                         EMIL

             Idaho.

 

                         BILLY

             Idaho, wow!

 

                         EMIL

             Clearwater country.

 

                         BILLY

             How far is that?

 

                         EMIL

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

 

                         BILLY

             They come back Monday night.

 

                         EMIL

             We'll be fine. Leave today, get

             there tomorrow. Spend a few days.

             I'll show you God's country and

             we'll do some fishing.

 

                         BILLY

             Awesome.

 

 

EXT. RHODES HOUSE - DRIVEWAY - DAY

 

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

 

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

bag in the trunk.

 

Emil climbs in.

 

                         EMIL

             I'm ready when you are.

 

Billy jumps behind the wheel.

 

                         BILLY

             This is so awesome.


                                                           10.

 

 

EXT. NEIGHBORHOOD - STREET - DAY

 

The VW cruising.

 

                         EMIL

             Pull in over there.

 

 

EXT. TAVERN - DAY

 

Billy pulls in front of the tavern.

 

                         EMIL

             I won't be a minute.

 

 

INT. TAVERN - DAY

 

Emil enters and finds Wally at the bar.

 

                         WALLY

                  (to bartender)

             Bring a beer for Emil.

 

                         EMIL

             Just here to make a delivery.

 

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

To be opened in the event of death."

 

                         WALLY

             Damn it, Emil, why you giving me

             something like this?

 

                         EMIL

             It's a copy of my will. I named

             you executor.

 

                         WALLY

             I'm not a lawyer.

 

                         EMIL

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

 

He turns to go.

 

                         WALLY

             Where are you going?

 

Emil turns back.

 

                         EMIL

             I ever tell you about Emma?


                                                           11.

 

 

                         WALLY

             Probably. I don't remember. Who's

             Emma?

 

                         EMIL

             The one that got away. I'm going

             to find her and I'm going to ask

             her to marry me.

 

                         WALLY

             You can't ask a woman to marry

             somebody on his death bed.

 

                         EMIL

             You don't know Emma.

 

                         WALLY

             What if she's already married?

 

                         EMIL

             I'll ask her to get divorced.

 

                         WALLY

             What if she's dead?

 

                         EMIL

             Then I really blew it.

 

 

EXT. TAVERN - DAY

 

Emil comes out and gets back in the car.

 

                         EMIL

             To Idaho, James!

 

Billy grins and starts the engine.

 

 

A SERIES OF SHOTS - THE DRIVE TO IDAHO

 

--on a crowded freeway in the city.

 

--on an Interstate in the suburbs.

 

--on an Interstate in countryside.

 

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

large wall map.

 

--back on the Interstate, different countryside.

 

--at a fast food speaker, ordering.


                                                           12.

 

 

--on the Interstate with burgers in hand.

 

 

EXT. INTERSTATE - DAY

 

The VW top is up. Emil driving.

 

He takes an exit ramp.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Billy, who was dozing at the window, stirs.

 

                         BILLY

             We need gas?

 

                         EMIL

             We're calling it a day.

 

                         BILLY

             Already?

 

                         EMIL

             We've come about as far as my

             back can take.

 

 

EXT. MOTEL - OFFICE - DAY

 

The VW parked in front. Billy waits.

 

Emil comes out, holding up a key.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - DAY

 

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

 

                         EMIL

             Which bed you want?

 

Billy tosses his bag onto a bed.

 

 

EXT. RESTAURANT - NIGHT

 

The VW parked in the lot.

 

 

INT. RESTAURANT - BOOTH - NIGHT

 

Emil and Billy finishing up dinner.


                                                           13.

 

 

                         BILLY

             Why do you call Idaho God's country?

 

                         EMIL

             Because it is. Only northern

             Idaho, to be precise.

 

                         BILLY

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

 

                         EMIL

             Because many, many years ago I

             decided I should go to college

             and become a professor. Sometimes

             life deals you very difficult

             choices. You do the best you can

             at the time.

 

                         BILLY

             How come we never went to Idaho

             on vacation?

 

                         EMIL

             Because your mother wouldn't be

             able to find a five-star resort.

 

 

INT. RESTAURANT - BOOTH - NIGHT (LATER)

 

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

 

                         EMIL

             You have a girlfriend?

 

                         BILLY

             Not really.

 

                         EMIL

             That almost sounds like yes.

 

                         BILLY

             She already has a boyfriend.

 

                         EMIL

             Maybe she really likes you better.

 

                         BILLY

             Yeah, right.

 

                         EMIL

             It's not possible?


                                                           14.

 

 

                         BILLY

             She's a cheerleader. Her

             boyfriend's a football player.

 

                         EMIL

             Ah. So you've given up.

 

                         BILLY

             Wouldn't you?

 

                         EMIL

             Sometimes we give up too easily.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - NIGHT

 

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

 

Emil turns out his bedside lamp.

 

                         EMIL

             Goodnight.

 

                         BILLY

             Want me to turn off TV?

 

                         EMIL

             Won't bother me at all.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - NIGHT (LATER)

 

A dark room. Emil snoring to beat the band.

 

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

holds it over his head.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - DAY

 

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

 

Emil shakes Billy.

 

                         EMIL

             Rise and shine! One hundred miles

             before breakfast.

 

 

EXT. INTERSTATE - DAY

 

Emil driving.


                                                           15.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

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

 

 

EXT. TRUCK STOP - DAY

 

The VW parked and dwarfed by 18-wheelers.

 

 

INT. TRUCK STOP - TABLE - DAY

 

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

coffee.

 

                         EMIL

             I have a confession to make.

 

Billy looks up but says nothing.

 

                         EMIL

             I'm looking for someone.

 

                         BILLY

             Who?

 

                         EMIL

             A woman. The one who got away.

 

                         BILLY

             Who's that?

 

                         EMIL

             Her name is Emma. I don't even

             know if she's still alive.

 

                         BILLY

             When's the last time you heard

             from her?

 

                         EMIL

             Let me think ... I haven't seen

             her since 1947. But I talked to

             her on the phone after that. Once.

 

                         BILLY

             You haven't heard from her in all

             that time?

 

                         EMIL

             Don't rub it in.


                                                           16.

 

 

                         BILLY

             So why do you want to see her all

             of a sudden?

 

Emil stands up.

 

                         EMIL

             Desire is one of the wonderful

             mysteries of life, lad. Excuse me.

             Nature calls.

 

He hobbles away. Billy watches him go, puzzled.

 

 

EXT. INTERSTATE - INTERCHANGE - DAY

 

The VW moves off the Interstate onto a state highway.

 

 

EXT. HIGHWAY - FARMLAND - DAY

 

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

 

In the distance, a lone tractor working the land.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Emil driving. Billy staring off at the tractor.

 

                         BILLY

             He has to plow that whole gigantic

             field?

 

                         EMIL

             It's called farming.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - OUTSKIRTS - DAY

 

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

Homestead.

 

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

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - MAIN STREET - DAY

 

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

brick and stone buildings of a western town.

 

Emil pulls the VW in front of a bar.


                                                           17.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Emil keeps the engine running.

 

                         EMIL

             Can you amuse yourself for about

             half an hour?

 

                         BILLY

             Is she in the bar?

 

                         EMIL

             I doubt it. I'm just hoping I

             find somebody I know.

 

                         BILLY

             Is this a wild goose chase?

 

                         EMIL

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

             back here in thirty.

 

 

INT. BAR - DAY

 

Emil enters the bar.

 

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

tables along a wall.

 

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

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

 

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

 

                         BARTENDER

             What can I get you?

 

                         EMIL

             Short beer. Whatever's on tap.

 

She goes to draw it.

 

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

in their thoughts.

 

The bartender brings his beer.

 

                         EMIL

             I'm looking for Emma Wells. That

             was her last name when she was

             single. You wouldn't know her,

             would you?


                                                           18.

 

 

                         BARTENDER

             Jake, you know Emma Wells?

 

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

 

                         BARTENDER

             This here gent is looking for her.

 

                         EMIL

                  (to Jake)

             Can I buy you a beer?

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - MAIN STREET - DAY

 

The VW cruising Main Street.

 

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

The downtown section of Homestead is about three blocks long.

 

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

town.

 

 

INT. FAST FOOD JOINT - DAY

 

Billy goes to the counter.

 

 

INT. BAR - TABLE - DAY

 

Emil and Jake at a table.

 

                         JAKE

             You know Emma's daughter?

 

                         EMIL

             I didn't know she had a daughter.

 

                         JAKE

             And two sons. She could give you

             the address of the place.

 

 

INT. FAST FOOD JOINT - DAY

 

Billy finishing up a burger.

 

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

company uniform.

 

                         JENNY

             Everything okay?


                                                           19.

 

 

                         BILLY

             It's great.

 

                         JENNY

             You're not from around here.

 

                         BILLY

             I guess it shows.

 

                         JENNY

             This is a small town. If you

             don't know somebody coming in, it

             usually means they're just

             passing through.

 

                         BILLY

             I'm visiting with my granddad. He

             grew up here.

 

                         JENNY

             What's his name?

 

                         BILLY

             Emil Collins.

 

                         JENNY

             I'll ask my grandma if she knows

             him. You staying long?

 

                         BILLY

             Just a few days. He's taking me

             fishing.

 

                         JENNY

             Then we have something in common.

             I'm on the river every chance I get.

 

                         BILLY

             Actually I've never been fishing

             before.

 

 

EXT. BAR - DAY

 

Emil comes out. No Billy.

 

 

EXT. FAST FOOD JOINT - PARKING LOT - DAY

 

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

paper.


                                                           20.

 

 

                         JENNY

             Call me. Maybe grandma knows your

             granddad.

 

                         BILLY

             Way cool. Thanks.

 

They exchange smiles. An attraction is obvious.

 

 

EXT. BAR - DAY

 

The VW pulls up.

 

Emil comes around to the driver's side.

 

                         EMIL

             Slide over.

 

Billy does. Emil gets behind the wheel.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - NEIGHBORHOOD - DAY

 

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

neighborhood.

 

Emil pulls to the curb.

 

 

EXT. HOME - PORCH - DAY

 

Emil and Bill at the door, waiting.

 

MARTHA, 40s, opens the door.

 

                         MARTHA

             May I help you?

 

 

INT. HOME - LIVING ROOM - DAY

 

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

 

                         MARTHA

             I'm trying to raise three kids by

             myself. I can't look after her,

             too. Dennis offered his guest

             room but he lives in LA, and you

             couldn't get mom there if you

             paid her.

 

                         EMIL

             Can't say I blame her.


                                                           21.

 

 

                         MARTHA

             When we decided it wasn't safe

             for her to live alone, we had

             little choice. It's a good

             facility. Very good reputation.

 

                         EMIL

             Do you have the address? I'd like

             to visit her.

 

                         MARTHA

             Let me get it.

 

Martha leaves the room.

 

                         EMIL

             She looks a little like Emma.

             Only Emma was prettier.

 

 

EXT. HOUSE - PORCH - DAY

 

Martha seeing them out.

 

                         MARTHA

             She doesn't get many visitors,

             I'm afraid. I can only get up

             there a weekend every month or so.

             I'm sure she'll be delighted to

             see you.

 

                         EMIL

             I'll give her your best.

 

 

INT. HOMESTEAD - STREET - DAY

 

Emil driving.

 

                         EMIL

             It's about an hour. We could get

             a room and you could stay here if

             you wanted.

 

                         BILLY

             You don't mind?

 

                         EMIL

             Can't be much fun listening to a

             couple of dinosaurs reminisce.

 

                         BILLY

             I met a girl who says her

             grandmother may know you.


                                                           22.

 

 

                         EMIL

             You met a girl already! Before

             you were telling me you're the

             shy type.

 

                         BILLY

             She wants me to call her later.

 

                         EMIL

             We'd better get a room.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - MOTEL - DAY

 

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

 

                         EMIL

             If I'm not back by six, eat

             without me. You need money?

 

                         BILLY

             I still have ten bucks.

 

Emil reaches into his wallet.

 

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

 

                         BILLY

             Man, thanks!

 

                         EMIL

             You probably should take that

             girl out to dinner. I'll fend for

             myself and catch up with you later.

 

He gets into the VW.

 

 

EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY

 

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

lane highway.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Emil lost in his thoughts.

 

 

INT. GYMNASIUM - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

SUPER: "Homestead High School Gymnasium. Graduation Prom,

1947."


                                                           23.

 

 

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

stage.

 

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

prom best.

 

The song ends. Applause.

 

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

 

                         MR. FRYER

             Emil, I heard Gonzaga gave you a

             scholarship. Congratulations.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             Thank you, sir.

 

                         MR. FRYER

             You look beautiful tonight, Emma.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             Thank you, Mr. Fryer.

 

They move on.

 

 

INT. GYMNASIUM - STORAGE ROOM - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

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

the hallway spill through the cracked door.

 

They immediately embrace and kiss. Hot and heavy.

 

 

EXT. UNIVERSITY TOWN - DAY

 

The VW enters the outskirts of a university town.

 

 

INT. HOMESTEAD - MOTEL ROOM - DAY

 

Billy waiting on the phone.

 

                         BILLY

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

             sold me a hamburger this

             afternoon....I was wondering if

             your grandmother knows my

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

             him.

 

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


                                                           24.

 

 

                         BILLY

             Say, I was wondering, are you

             doing anything later?

 

 

EXT. UNIVERSITY TOWN - ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - DAY

 

The VW pulls into the parking lot.

 

 

INT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - FRONT COUNTER - DAY

 

Emil steps up.

 

                         NURSE

             May I help you?

 

                         EMIL

             I'm looking for Emma ...

 

He glances at the slip of paper Martha gave him.

 

                         EMIL

             ...Simpson.

 

 

INT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - HALLWAY - DAY

 

Emil follows the nurse.

 

                         NURSE

             Are you a relative?

 

                         EMIL

             An old friend.

 

                         NURSE

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

 

 

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

 

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

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

the door.

 

                         NURSE (O.S.)

              Emma, you have company!

 

The door opens and the nurse peeks in.

 

                         NURSE

             Someone to see you, dear.


                                                           25.

 

 

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

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

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - COUNTRY ROAD - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

A car parked on the shoulder of a deserted road.

 

 

INT. CAR - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

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

Hotter and heavier.

 

Emil groans and pulls away.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

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

 

Emil studies her. She kisses him.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             I want to.

 

 

EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

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

 

 

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

 

The nurse lets Emil in.

 

                         NURSE

             I'll let you two visit. Emma, you

             have company!

 

 Emma just sits there.

 

                         NURSE

             It takes her a while, but she'll

             be with you in a minute.

 

The nurse leaves, closing the door behind her.

 

Emil stands inside the doorway.

 

                         EMIL

              Emma? It's Emil. Emil Collins.


                                                           26.

 

 

INT. CAR - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

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

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             Emma?

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

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

             don't stop.

 

 

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

 

Emil sits down next to Emma.

 

                         EMIL

             Hello, Emma.

 

Emma's expression finally changes. She looks inquisitive.

 

                          EMMA

             Who are you?

 

                         EMIL

             Emil Collins.

 

                          EMMA

             Emil...

 

                         EMIL

             It's been a long time.

 

                          EMMA

             ...Emil.

 

Emil takes her hand.

 

                         EMIL

             Do you remember me?

 

She studies him.

 

                          EMMA

             Of course, I remember you.

 

 

INT. CAR - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

 

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

lovemaking. Her head is on his shoulder.


                                                           27.

 

 

                         EMIL

             One day I'm going to show you the

             most incredible sight in God's

             creation.

 

                         EMMA

             The Goose Necks.

 

                         EMIL

             You have to see it to believe it.

             It makes you feel so small -- and

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

             word is. Blessed. To live amidst

             such wonder. To live amidst such

             beauty on Earth.

 

 

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

 

Emma looks at their joined hands.

 

                         EMIL

             It's been a long time.

 

                          EMMA

             I thought you were dead.

 

                         EMIL

             I should have come long before

             now. There's so much to talk

             about. I don't know where to

             begin. I saw a garden outside.

             Would you like to go out?

 

                          EMMA

             Yes, I think I would.

 

 

INT. HOMESTEAD - CAFE - DAY (FLASHBACK)

 

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

hushed tones.

 

Emma has been crying.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             It's going to be okay. I just

             have to think a minute.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             I'm so scared.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             I'll get a job.


                                                           28.

 

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             You can't. You have a scholarship.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             We'll get married. We'll figure a

             way for me to go to college later.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             I feel so horrible. I feel like

             I'm ruining your life.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             Emma, stop it. We're in this

             together.

 

He takes her hand.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             I love you, Emma.

 

 

EXT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - GARDEN - DAY

 

Emil and Emma walk in the garden.

 

                         EMMA

             It's so lovely.

 

                         EMIL

             I was worried when I saw you. You

             looked so ...

 

                         EMMA

             Dead? It's boredom. I am so bored

             in this place!

 

They walk a moment.

 

                         EMIL

             I came here for a reason, Emma. I

             didn't know if I'd find you or

             not. But if I did, I had something

             I had to tell you. I'm going to

             say it now and get it off my

             chest. You don't have to say

             anything. Just listen.

 

                          EMMA

             Well, you certainly have my

             attention.

 

                         EMIL

             I've always regretted not marrying

             you when I had the chance.


                                                           29.

 

 

                          EMMA

             What a sweet thing to say.

 

                         EMIL

             It broke my heart when you

             married somebody else.

 

 Emma turns away.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - WELLS HOME - DAY (FLASHBACK)

 

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

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             Emil, what are you doing here?

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             I need to speak to your father.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             Why?

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             I'm going to ask his permission

             to marry you.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             You can't tell him!

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             I'm just asking for your hand.

             May I see him?

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

                  (frantic)

             No, I think we should wait.

 

                         YOUNG EMIL

             There's no point.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             But I was just about to call you.

             I have news. Everything's changed,

             Emil. It was what they call a

             false pregnancy. You can go to

             Gonzaga, after all. We can write

             and see each other during the

             holidays, just like we planned.

 

Emil looks stunned. Emma embrace  him.

 

                         YOUNG EMMA

             It can be just like it was before.


                                                           30.

 

 

But there are tears in her eyes.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - MOTEL - DAY

 

Billy waits outside the hotel room.

 

A car pulls up. Jenny is driving.

 

Billy gets in.

 

 

INT. JENNY'S CAR - DAY

 

Jenny wears casual clothes. She's all smiles.

 

                         JENNY

             I'm glad you called.

 

                         BILLY

             Me, too.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - MOTEL - DAY

 

Jenny's car pulls away and onto Main Street.

 

 

INT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - DINING ROOM - DAY

 

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

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

 

                         RUTH

             Here we go. Mr. Collins, if this

             isn't the best coconut pie you've

             ever tasted, you let me know.

 

                         EMIL

             It looks delicious.

 

                         RUTH

             Only the best for my girl.

 

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

the kitchen.

 

An awkward silence.

 

                         EMIL

             Do they let you off the premises?


                                                           31.

 

 

                          EMMA

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

             you mean. But they're responsible

             for me. I have to sign out.

 

                         EMIL

             I was wondering if you'd like to

             go fishing with me.

 

                         EMMA

             I remember how much you like to

             fish.

 

                         EMIL

             I haven't done much lately. City

             life, you know. I live with my

             daughter.

 

                          EMMA

             Tell me about your family.

 

                         EMIL

             After you answer my question. Do

             you want to go fishing?

 

                          EMMA

             I'm not sure they'd let me go

             without supervision. They'd be

             afraid I'd slip on a rock and

             drown myself.

 

                         EMIL

             I'd be there.

 

                          EMMA

             They'd be worried about you for

             the same reason.

 

                         EMIL

             How about you sneak out?

 

                         EMMA

             Oh my!

 

                         EMIL

             I'm serious. I come by early in

             the morning, before anybody's up,

             and take you fishing.

 

                          EMMA

             That sounds like a real adventure.


                                                           32.

 

 

                         EMIL

             You always were the adventurous

             kind. We'd spend the day fishing

             and then I'd bring you back.

 

 

EXT. RIVER - DAY

 

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

 

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

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

idea what to do with it.

 

                         JENNY

             You never even cast before?

 

                         BILLY

             You don't get a lot of chances to

             fish in the city.

 

                         JENNY

             So we'll start at the beginning.

             First, you bait your hook.

 

 

EXT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - PARKING LOT - DAY

 

Emil and Emma stand at the VW.

 

                         EMIL

             I'm going to be here at five in

             the morning. Don't you change

             your mind on me.

 

                          EMMA

             I'll be here.

 

                         EMIL

             Good. We'll have ourselves quite

             a day.

 

He moves forward. They awkwardly embrace.

 

 

EXT. RIVER - DAY

 

Jenny stands behind Billy, showing him how to cast.

 

He casts, reels it in, and casts again.

 

He's a quick learner.


                                                           33.

 

 

EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY

 

Emil in the VW, heading back to Homestead.

 

 

EXT. RIVER - DAY

 

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

line in the water.

 

Billy is finally fishing on his own.

 

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

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - SPORTING GOODS STORE - DAY

 

The VW parked outside a sporting goods store.

 

 

INT. SPORTING GOODS STORE - DAY

 

Emil pushing a cart through the store.

 

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

equipment piled in the cart.

 

 

EXT. RIVER - DAY

 

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

it.

 

                         BILLY

             Is it a salmon?

 

                         JENNY

             A trout. You did great!

 

She raises a hand. Billy high-fives.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - MOTEL - DAY

 

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

 

Billy sees all the camping gear in the VW.

 

                         JENNY

             Are you going camping?

 

                         BILLY

             I thought we were going fishing.


                                                           34.

 

 

                         JENNY

             They go together.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - DAY

 

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

step in.

 

Emil twitches awake.

 

                         JENNY

             I'd better go.

 

                         BILLY

             We'll be there.

 

                         JENNY

             If you can't, give me a call.

 

She flashes her smile.

 

                         JENNY

             I had a great time, Billy.

 

                         BILLY

             Me, too.

 

She's gone.

 

Emil sits up.

 

                         EMIL

             Who had a great time?

 

                         BILLY

             Jenny. Her grandmother remembers

             you.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - RESIDENTIAL STREET - NIGHT

 

The VW is parked in a driveway.

 

 

INT. HOUSE - DINING ROOM - NIGHT

 

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

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

 

                         EMIL

             I'll take your word for it.


                                                           35.

 

 

                         ANNIE

             You helped me with my homework

             several times. Especially

             Shakespeare. I hated reading that

             stuff.

 

                         BILLY

             You don't remember, Gramps?

 

                         EMIL

             I remembered to put on my pants

             this morning. After that, it gets

             iffy.

 

Jenny enters with one fried breaded trout on a plate.

 

                         JENNY

             Ta da! To the fisherman goes the

             fish!

 

She places the fish in front of him.

 

                         BILLY

             Wow.

 

                         ANNIE

             I don't know about the rest of

             you, but I'm starving. Everybody

             dig in.

 

They do.

 

 

INT. HOUSE - DEN - NIGHT

 

Billy and Jenny are playing a video game.

 

 

INT. HOUSE - KITCHEN - NIGHT

 

Emil is drying dishes. Annie washes.

 

                         ANNIE

             I hardly knew Emma at all. My

             older sister, bless her soul, got

             close to her when Emma was

             pregnant. It was such a bad time

             for her.

 

                         EMIL

             She had a difficult pregnancy?


                                                           36.

 

 

                         ANNIE

             Not being married and all.

             Everybody knew. I don't know what

             she would've done if Brad hadn't

             done the honorable thing and

             married her. Then, no sooner does

             she have the baby, and God takes

             her back. Emma's had such a

             tragic life.

 

Emil looks intense. All this is news to him.

 

 

EXT. HOUSE - PORCH - NIGHT

 

Everyone on the porch.

 

                         ANNIE

             Hope to see you again before you

             leave.

 

                         EMIL

             It was a wonderful dinner. Thanks

             so much.

 

                         JENNY

             Call me, Billy?

 

Billy nods.

 

 

INT. CAR - NIGHT

 

Emil driving.

 

                         EMIL

             I like her. Maybe she can visit

             us at the campground.

 

                         BILLY

             That would be cool.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - NIGHT

 

Both in bed, getting ready for lights out.

 

                         EMIL

             I'll shake you at four.

 

                         BILLY

             You're kidding.


                                                           37.

 

 

                         EMIL

             I'm serious, lad. We pick Emma up

             at five.

 

                         BILLY

             Why so early?

 

                         EMIL

             We have to get her out of there

             before the full staff comes on.

             She's not supposed to go.

 

                         BILLY

             Like we're helping her escape?

 

                         EMIL

             Exactly like that. So lights out.

             Four will be here before you know

             it.

 

 

EXT. MOTEL - DAY

 

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

he's half-asleep.

 

 

EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY

 

Emil driving.

 

Ahead, the horizon getting light.

 

 

EXT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - DAY

 

The VW pulls up and stops.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Emil lets the engine idle.

 

Billy is asleep against the window.

 

 

EXT. ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY - DAY

 

Emil gets out.

 

He looks around. What now?

 

A sound.


                                                           38.

 

 

                          EMMA

             Emil...

 

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

 

                         EMIL

             Let me help you.

 

He takes her bag. They walk to the car.

 

Emil taps on the window. Billy jumps awake.

 

                         EMIL

             My grandson.

 

Billy opens the door.

 

                         EMIL

             Billy, this is Emma. Would you

             mind riding in the back seat?

 

Billy yawns.

 

                         BILLY

             Hi. No problem.

 

                          EMMA

             Look at all this. How long are we

             staying?

 

                         EMIL

             Hey, if we have a good time,

             maybe we'll never come back.

 

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

behind the wheel.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Emil smiles.

 

                         EMIL

             When it warms up, we'll put the

             top down.

 

A SERIES OF SHOTS

 

as they drive to the campground.

 

--back along the country road, the sun low and climbing.

 

--through Homestead as the town wakes up.


                                                           39.

 

 

--along the river.

 

 

INT. ASSISTED LIVING AREA - HALLWAY - DAY

 

The nurse from earlier comes down the hall. She taps on

Emma's door.

 

Nothing.

 

Louder.

 

She unlocks the door.

 

 

INT.  EMMA'S ROOM - DAY

 

The nurse looks inside. Nobody home.

 

 

INT. ASSISTED LIVING AREA - KITCHEN - DAY

 

Nurse enters. Ruth at the stove.

 

                         NURSE

             Have you seen Emma this morning?

 

                         RUTH

             Sure haven't.

 

 

INT. MARTHA'S HOME - DAY

 

Martha on the phone.

 

                         MARTHA

             God, she must have dementia. Why

             else would she just wander

             off?...Don't you think you should

             call the police?

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - DAY

 

The VW enters a campground.

 

A few campers here and there.

 

Emil pull into a campsite right on the river.

 

Everybody piles out.

 

                          EMMA

             It's beautiful!


                                                           40.

 

 

                         BILLY

             I caught a trout in this river.

 

                         EMIL

             And ate it, too.

 

A SERIES OF SHOTS

 

as they set up camp.

 

--unloading the car.

 

--putting up the tent.

 

--setting up the stove.

 

--inflating air mattresses for the sleeping bags.

 

--and then to the river, fishing.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - RIVER - DAY

 

Everyone fishing from the bank.

 

Billy and Emma hook a fish almost at the same time. Great

excitement.

 

Emil helps, netting each trout in turn.

 

LATER

 

Emil catches his first fish, netting it himself.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOME - DAY

 

A telephone in the living room rings. And rings.

 

Finally the voice mail picks up.

 

                         MARTI'S VOICE

             You've reached the Rhodes

             residence, Marti, Don, Sara and

             Billy. Leave a message and the

             appropriate party will get back

             to you.

 

A beep.


                                                           41.

 

 

INT. COASTAL RESORT - DECK - DAY

 

Marti with a cell phone on the deck of a five-star resort.

Beyond, the spectacular ocean.

 

                         MARTI

             Sara, it's mom. Just checking in.

             Give me a call on my cell when

             you get a chance. We're blessed

             with just beautiful weather here.

             Hope all is well on the home

             front. Call me. Love you.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - NIGHT

 

Evening, just after sunset.

 

Emma at the stove. Frying trout.

 

Billy at the campfire, staring into the flames.

 

 

INT. TENT - NIGHT

 

Emil pops a pain pill, chasing it with a can of pop.

 

Deep breaths.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - NIGHT

 

Emil comes out of the tent.

 

                         EMIL

             Man, that smells good!

 

                          EMMA

             Almost ready.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - NIGHT

 

A lantern on the picnic table.

 

All three around the campfire.

 

Emil and Emma huddled close.

 

                         BILLY

             I'm going for a walk.

 

                         EMIL

             Take the flashlight.


                                                           42.

 

 

Billy leaves.

 

                         EMIL

             How long were you and Brad married?

 

                          EMMA

             40 years. He died not long after

             our ruby anniversary. And how

             long were you married? You

             haven't said much about your wife.

 

                         EMIL

             Which one?

 

                          EMMA

             How many were there?

 

                         EMIL

             Four.

 

                          EMMA

             Four!

 

                         EMIL

             Six if you count live-ins.

 

                          EMMA

             Emil Collins. I had no idea you

             were such a ... what is the word?

 

                         EMIL

             Idiot?

 

                          EMMA

             Any children?

 

                         EMIL

             Never stayed put long enough.

 

                          EMMA

             That surprises me.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - ANOTHER AREA - NIGHT

 

Billy at a pay phone outside the rest rooms.

 

 

INT. HOME - BEDROOM - NIGHT

 

Jenny sprawled on her bed.

 

INTERCUT


                                                           43.

 

 

                         JENNY

             I know that campground very well.

 

                         BILLY

             Think you can come?

 

                         JENNY

             I can visit. I don't know if I

             can stay over.

 

                         BILLY

             Either way would be great.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - CAMPFIRE - NIGHT

 

Emil has his arm around her. Less romantic, more protection

against the chill. Both staring into the fire.

 

                         EMIL

             I didn't realize you'd lost a child.

 

Emma looks up and pulls away.

 

                          EMMA

             Who told you that?

 

                         EMIL

             Jenny's grandmother, Annie, said

             her older sister knew you. I'm

             sorry you had to go through that.

 

                          EMMA

             What else did she say?

 

                         EMIL

             That seemed like enough.

 

A silence.

 

Emma gets up and goes to the stove on the table.

 

                          EMMA

             Coffee?

 

                         EMIL

             I'm fine.

 

                          EMMA

             I want to take a drive tomorrow.

             It's not far from here.

 

                         EMIL

             What isn't?


                                                           44.

 

 

                          EMMA

             What I want to show you.

 

Billy returns.

 

                         BILLY

             I'm going to bed.

 

                          EMMA

             Half a cup of coffee and I'm

             right behind you.

 

                         BILLY

             Are we all sleeping in the tent?

 

                         EMIL

             There's room. You need privacy?

 

                         BILLY

             Not really.

 

 

INT. TENT - NIGHT

 

Emil holds the lantern.

 

Three sleeping bags in a row on air mattresses.

 

                         EMIL

             Take the end there, Billy. I'm

             beside you.

 

                          EMMA

             Goodnight, all.

 

She and Billy crawl into the end sleeping bags.

 

                         EMIL

             I'll try not to step on you, lad.

 

He turns off the lantern.

 

He maneuvers over Billy and crawls into the middle sleeping

bag.

 

Emma laughs.

 

                         EMIL

             What's so funny?

 

                          EMMA

             I'm so bored most of the time,

             the nurses have me on my death

             bed. If only they could see me now.


                                                           45.

 

 

INT. COASTAL RESORT - DAY

 

Marti on the phone.

 

Don enters from the bathroom.

 

                         MARTI

             Nobody's answering. Since when

             has either of them been out of

             the house at eight without me

             kicking them in the butt?

 

                         DON

             Your dad's not answering?

 

                         MARTI

             No one is home.

 

She slams down the receiver.

 

                         DON

             No.

 

                         MARTI

             What?

 

                         DON

             We're not rushing back. We're not

             letting this ruin our vacation.

 

                         MARTI

             Oh my God. What if Dad's in the

             hospital? That would explain why

             no one is home.

 

She punches a number.

 

                         MARTI

             How do I get information?

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - RIVER - DAY

 

Early morning. Emil alone at the river.

 

He folds his arms against the chill. Contemplative.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - DAY

 

Emil has coffee on. Emma stumbles out of the tent, looking a

fright.


                                                           46.

 

 

                         EMMA

             Good morning.

 

                         EMIL

             Yes, it is.

 

                         EMMA

             I slept like a rock.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - DAY (LATER)

 

Emil and Emma at the table, eating breakfast.

 

Billy comes out of the tent.

 

                         EMIL

             Morning. I kept your eggs warm.

 

 

INT. FAST FOOD JOINT - DAY

 

Jenny behind the counter.

 

Two deputies enter. They are DEP. HALL and DEP. MALINOWSKI

 

                         JENNY

             Morning. What will it be?

 

                         DEP. HALL

             Just coffee.

 

                         DEP. MALINOWSKI

             Decaf, black.

 

                         DEP. HALL

             Real coffee, room for cream.

 

He hands Jenny a flier.

 

                         DEP. HALL

             You seen this woman?

 

THE FLIER

 

a photo of Emma with description and the words, "Missing

from the Palousse Valley Assisted Living Center."

 

                         JENNY

             I don't know her. Would you like

             me to put this on our bulletin

             board?


                                                           47.

 

 

                         DEP. HALL

             You took the words right out of

             my mouth.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - DAY

 

Emil and Emma in the VW with the top down.

 

                         EMIL

             We should be back before dinner.

 

                         BILLY

             Maybe I'll have a trout dinner

             waiting for you. Jenny's coming

             by. She can help.

 

                         EMIL

                  (to Emma)

             Romeo here used to be shy with

             girls.

 

Emil toots the horn -- and they're off.

 

 

INT. FAST FOOD JOINT - DAY

 

Jenny on the phone.

 

                         JENNY

             I don't get off till three, so

             it'll be four or so. Is that too

             late?...Okay, great! See you then.

 

She hangs up.

 

YVONNE, a teen co-worker, has overheard.

 

                         YVONNE

             New boyfriend?

 

                         JENNY

             I'm not sure yet.

 

 

EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY

 

The VW, top down, Emil at the wheel, Emma's hair blowing in

the wind.

 

 

EXT. COUNTRY CEMETERY - ROAD - DAY

 

The VW pulls into a small cemetery.


                                                           48.

 

 

                          EMMA

             Park anywhere.

 

 

EXT. COUNTRY CEMETERY - GRAVES - DAY

 

Emma leads the way past rows of graves.

 

She stops at a small marker.

 

Emil reads:  "Emily Sharon Simpson. 1948-1950."

 

                         EMIL

             Your daughter?

 

                          EMMA

             Our daughter.

 

Emil looks confused.

 

                         EMIL

             I'm missing something.

 

                          EMMA

             I'd decided to get an abortion. I

             didn't want you to turn down your

             scholarship.

 

                         EMIL

             Emma...if you'd told me--

 

                          EMMA

             I couldn't go through with it. I

             named her Emily, after you. She

             was so beautiful.

 

                         EMIL

             But what about Brad?

 

                          EMMA

             He always had a thing for me. He

             talked me into keeping the baby

             and marrying him. Everyone

             thought it was his.

 

                         EMIL

             But did you love him?

 

                          EMMA

             Yes, I did come to love him.

             Mostly I've had a happy life.

             Isn't that crazy?

 

Emma loses herself in Emil's arms.


                                                           49.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - DAY

 

Jenny pulls up and parks. She gets out.

 

She walks down to the river where Billy is fishing. A smile

on her face.

 

 

EXT. RIVER - DAY

 

Jenny sneaks up behind Billy. She grabs him.

 

He turns, and they playfully wrestle a moment.

 

                         JENNY

             Catch anything?

 

                         BILLY

             Take a look.

 

She peeks in an ice chest on the bank. Three trout.

 

                         JENNY

             I think you're getting the hang

             of this.

 

 

EXT.  COUNTRY CEMETERY - DAY

 

Emil and Emma strolling, holding hands.

 

                         EMIL

             I told Billy we'd be back by dinner.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - TABLE - DAY

 

Jenny has the fish breaded and ready to fry.

 

Billy is setting the table.

 

                         BILLY

             Here they come.

 

The VW arrives and parks.

 

Emil and Emma get out.

 

Seeing Emma, Jenny does a double-take. The lady on the poster.

 

                         EMIL

             This must be Jenny!


                                                           50.

 

 

                         JENNY

             Hello.

 

                         BILLY

             My granddad. And this is Emma.

 

                          EMMA

             Hi.

 

Jenny looks ill at ease. Yes, she's definitely the one on

the poster.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - CAMP FIRE - NIGHT

 

Everyone around a camp fire.

 

Billy gets up.

 

                         BILLY

             Be right back.

 

                         EMIL

             Seeing a man about a horse?

 

                         BILLY

             Right.

 

                         JENNY

             I'll come with you.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - WALKWAY - NIGHT

 

Jenny takes Billy's arm.

 

                         JENNY

             She's a missing person.

 

                         BILLY

             Who is?

 

                         JENNY

             Emma. A sheriff came in with a

             missing poster about her.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - CAMP FIRE - NIGHT

 

Emil and Emma, sitting close.

 

Billy and Jenny return.


                                                           51.

 

 

                         EMIL

             Everything come out all right?

 

                         BILLY

             Can I talk to you a minute, Gramps?

 

Emil gives a "what is this about?" look to Emma. He gets up.

 

Billy moves away. Emil follows him into the growing darkness.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - TENT - NIGHT

 

Billy stops near the tent. Low tones.

 

                         BILLY

             There's a wanted poster out for

             Emma. They think she's been

             kidnapped or something.

 

                         EMIL

             Oh, boy.

 

 

INT. COASTAL RESORT - NIGHT

 

Marti on the phone once again. Don on the bed, reading.

 

                         MARTI

             I have no idea what's going on.

             Sara's not answering her cell. I

             called every hospital I could

             think of....Well, if anything

             changes, you have my number.

 

She hangs up.

 

                         MARTI

             Vicky says there are four papers

             in the driveway. Starting with

             the day we left.

 

                         DON

             That's doesn't make sense. Emil

             always reads the paper.

 

                         MARTI

             Nobody's home, Don. That's what

             I've been trying to tell you.

 

                         DON

             Where would they go?


                                                           52.

 

 

                         MARTI

             I have no idea. But we can't find

             out sitting here thinking about it.

 

                         DON

             Marti--

 

                         MARTI

             If you don't want to come, I'll

             rent a car in the morning.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - CAMP FIRE - NIGHT

 

Everyone around the fire. Jenny gets up.

 

                         JENNY

             I have to get back. Sorry to be

             the bearer of bad news.

 

                          EMMA

             At my age, a little notoriety

             goes the soul good.

 

                         JENNY

             I just hope no one gets in trouble.

 

                         BILLY

             I'll walk you to the car.

 

They disappear into the night.

 

                         EMIL

             At least we had our time on the

             river.

 

A reflective moment.

 

                         EMIL

                  (quoting from memory)

             "I do not know what it is about

             you that closes and opens; only

             something in me understands the

             voice of your eyes is deeper than

             all roses. Nobody, not even the

             rain, has such small hands."

                  (softly)

             Cummings.

 

                          EMMA

             I don't want to go back.

 

                         EMIL

             We don't have much choice.


                                                           53.

 

 

                          EMMA

             Of course we do. What is it the

             brochures say? We're in our

             golden years. Don't you feel golden?

 

Emil looks away, thinking.

 

                          EMMA

             What is it?

 

                         EMIL

             Staying here sounds so wonderful.

             But don't you think they'd find

             us pretty quick?

 

                          EMMA

             We don't have to stay here. Where

             is that place you used to tell me

             about?  Your family took a

             vacation there. How you raved

             about it! The goose something?

 

                         EMIL

             The Goose Necks of the San Juan.

             The most amazing scenery on the

             planet.

 

                          EMMA

             Let's go there.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - PARKING AREA - NIGHT

 

Billy and Jenny in a lip lock. It ends.

 

                         JENNY

             I guess that means I'll see you

             soon.

 

                         BILLY

             You don't think Gramps will get

             in trouble, will he?

 

                         JENNY

             It's not like he took her against

             her will. I think everybody will

             be thrilled she's okay.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - CAMP FIRE - NIGHT

 

The sound of Jenny's car leaving.

 

Billy appears from the shadows.


                                                           54.

 

 

                         BILLY

             So are we going back first thing

             in the morning or can I fish first?

 

                         EMIL

             Change of plans. We're going into

             town and renting a car. You

             return to Homestead and Emma and

             I are going on a trip.

 

                         BILLY

             But she's a missing person.

 

                          EMMA

             Do I look lost to you?

 

                         BILLY

             A trip where?

 

                         EMIL

             To God's most amazing creation.

 

 

EXT. COASTAL RESORT - DAY

 

Don is packing the car. Marti brings out another suitcase.

 

There is visible friction between them.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - DAY

 

Breaking camp. Almost done.

 

Emil at the car. Emma wiping down the table.

 

Billy brings the rolled tent to the car.

 

                         BILLY

             I want to go.

 

                         EMIL

             That's not a good idea.

 

                         BILLY

             Why not?

 

                         EMIL

             Because your mother would kill me.


                                                           55.

 

 

                         BILLY

             I'll leave her a message so she

             knows we're safe. Gramps, it's

             summer. I've got nothing else to

             do. You know we'd make better

             time with me driving. I mean, it

             can't take that long to get there.

             They won't even be home yet. They

             probably won't even know the

             difference.

 

                         EMIL

             Your dad would know. He'd see the

             mileage on the car.

 

                         BILLY

             Big deal. We bought our own gas,

             didn't we?

 

 Emma walks up.

 

                         EMIL

             He wants to come. What do you think?

 

                          EMMA

             What I really think? I wish I had

             the courage at his age to do

             something this adventurous.

 

Billy smiles, as if it's settled.

 

A SERIES OF SHOTS -- INTERCUT

 

The two journeys

 

--Emil, Emma and Billy on a country road.

 

--Marti and Don on the highway from the coast.

 

--The VW catches a highway to head south.

 

--The Rhodes car reaches the outskirts of the city.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOME - DAY

 

Marti rushes in. She goes straight to the phone.

 

She picks it up and punches a number. Voice mail.


                                                           56.

 

 

                         DOCTOR (FILTERED)

             This is a message for Emil. I

             found a hospice with a vacancy

             but I need to hear from you right

             away so I can reserve it for you.

             Please get back to me as soon as

             you can.

 

Don enters. Marti looks in shock.

 

                         DON

             What's the matter?

 

                         MARTI

             My father is dying.

 

 

EXT. GOLF COURSE - DAY

 

A twosome, one of whom is the doctor. His PARTNER is teeing up.

 

The doctor's cell phone rings.

 

                         DOCTOR

             Wouldn't you know?

 

He steps away and answers it.

 

                         DOCTOR

             Hello?...Yes, Mrs.

             Rhodes....What?...Mrs. Rhodes,

             your father has pancreatic cancer.

             He has a few months at best.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - DAY

 

Marti sets down the phone. Total shock.

 

 

EXT. DESERT SOUTHWEST - DAY

 

The VW convertible zipping along with the top down.

 

Billy is driving. Luggage has been rearranged, so Emil and

Emma can sit together in the back seat.

 

Their hair blows in the wind. They have the ecstatic look of

teenagers in love.

 

And the landscape, the landscape!


                                                           57.

 

 

Spectacular rock formations rise from the ground like stone

gods marching across the desert. The beauty is enough to

turn an atheist religious.

 

 

EXT. RHODES HOUSE - DAY

 

A police car is parked in the driveway.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - DAY

 

OFFICER HAMILTON filling out Marti's missing person report.

She's been crying. Don looks stoic.

 

                         OFFICER HAMILTON

             But you have no idea where they

             might have gone?

 

Marti shakes her head.

 

                         OFFICER HAMILTON

             No brother or sister to visit,

             old friend, anyone at all who

             comes to mind?

 

                         DON

             He always talked about going back

             to Homestead before he died.

 

                         OFFICER HAMILTON

             Where's the homestead?

 

                         DON

             It's a small town in northern Idaho.

 

 

EXT. RHODES HOUSE - POLICE CAR - DAY

 

Officer Hamilton in the car, punching numbers in a computer.

Waiting for results.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - DAY

 

Hamilton walks in through the open door. Marti waits for him.

 

                         OFFICER HAMILTON

             Does the name Emma Simpson mean

             anything to you?

 

                         MARTI

             Don! Did dad ever mention someone

             named Emma?


                                                           58.

 

 

Don approaches.

 

                         DON

             You know, it rings a bell.

             Sometimes he'd talk about his

             first girlfriend back home. I

             believe it was an Emma.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - FAST FOOD JOINT - DAY

 

A Sheriff's car pulls in and parks.

 

 

INT. FAST FOOD JOINT - DAY

 

The deputies Hall and Malinowski come to Jenny at the counter.

 

                         DEP. HALL

             Got another poster for you.

 

He hands it to Jenny.

 

THE POSTER

 

shows Emil, Billy, and Sara.

 

Looking over her shoulder is Yvonne.

 

                         YVONNE

             Is that his girlfriend?

 

Jenny looks dazed.

 

 

EXT. CAMPGROUND - DAY

 

Sheriff's car pulls into the old campsite. The two deputies

get out.

 

One kicks a burned log in the makeshift fireplace.

 

The other stares out at the river.

 

                         DEP. HALL

             What makes a grown adult a

             missing person?

 

                         DEP. MALINOWSKI

             Dementia?

 

                         DEP. HALL

             Maybe they just wanted to go

             fishing.


                                                           59.

 

 

EXT. SOUTHERN UTAH - GOOSE NECKS AREA - DAY

 

The sun low in the west.

 

The VW convertible pulls up atop a flat mesa. Nothing but

the wide open spaces up here.

 

This is definitely not "an improved camping area."

 

Billy, driving, gets out. Emil and Emma get out from the

back seat.

 

Emma does a complete circle, sucking in the view. Her hair

blows -- there's a good wind way up here!

 

                          EMMA

             Oh my Lord!

 

                         EMIL

             This is just the first course.

             Follow me.

 

Emil starts across the mesa. Emma and Billy follow.

 

 

EXT. GOOSE NECKS - MESA - DAY

 

Suddenly the ground opens up into a deep gash. No warning,

just a sudden drop.

 

Emil makes sure everyone stops in time.

 

Across the canyon, the mesa continues. The perspective is

misleading -- so far down, that the canyon gives the illusion

that one could jump across it.

 

                         EMIL

             Be really careful -- but look

             down there.

 

He takes Emma's hand and leads her closer to the edge. Billy

follows.

 

They get close enough to peer down the deep canyon.

 

                         EMIL

             I give you -- the Goose Necks of

             the San Juan River.

 

 

EXT. GOOSE NECES - DAY

 

And what an incredible view!


                                                           60.

 

 

Far, far below, the thin river turns one way and then back

on itself, for as far as the eye can see.

 

It's like a condensed version of the Grand Canyon -- and

more spectacular because it's more comprehensible. You see

it and wonder...Could I really jump across?

 

 

EXT. GOOSE NECKS - MESA - DAY

 

Emma is blown away by the beauty. She takes Emil's arms.

Tears well in her eyes.

 

                         EMIL

             What do you think, Billy?

 

                         BILLY

             I think this is what awesome

             really means.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - NIGHT

 

Suitcases at the door. Don waiting patiently.

 

Marti storms up.

 

 

EXT. AIRPORT - NIGHT

 

A small jetliner landing.

 

 

INT. AIRPORT - TERMINAL - NIGHT

 

Marti and Don enter. Don totes a carry-on, Marti has a cell

phone to her ear.

 

She drops it.

 

                         MARTI

             I'm going to murder that girl.

 

 

INT. AIRPORT - RENTAL CAR COUNTER - NIGHT

 

Don at the counter. Marti waits nearby.

 

 

EXT. AIRPORT - RENTAL CAR PICKUP - NIGHT

 

Don and Marti climb into a late model car.


                                                           61.

 

 

INT. RENTAL CAR - NIGHT

 

Don behind the wheel.

 

                         MARTI

             Do you know where you're going?

 

                         DON

             I know what the map says. Do you

             have a short cut?

 

Marti glares at him, then out the window.

 

 

EXT. MESA - SCRUB BRUSH - NIGHT

 

The tent is set up within a cluster of scrub brush, protected

somewhat from the wind.

 

No table. No fireplace. Primitive camping.

 

Everyone sits on a tarp on the ground. The stove, also on

the ground, is nearby.

 

Emma looking up at the sky.

 

                          EMMA

             A shooting star! Emil, help me up.

 

He has a bit of trouble getting up himself. Then he offers

Emma his hand.

 

Billy jumps up. They all look up at the sky.

 

                         BILLY

             There's one!

 

                          EMMA

             And another!

 

Overhead, a summer meteor shower in its early tease. The

Milky Way floats across the sky like the ghost of a dragon.

 

                          EMMA

             I've never been anywhere so

             beautiful.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - MOTEL - NIGHT

 

The rental car parked in front of the office.

 

Marti waiting in the car.


                                                           62.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - NIGHT

 

Don turns on the light, and they enter.

 

                         MARTI

             Did you ask about a restaurant?

 

                         DON

             Nothing open this late.

 

                         MARTI

             Terrific. Welcome to Redneck City.

 

                         DON

             There's a bar that may make us a

             burger.

 

 

INT. HOMESTEAD - BAR - NIGHT

 

Don enters alone. A decent late night crowd, mostly male and

blue collar.

 

Don walks to the end of the bar.

 

The LADY BARTENDER comes over.

 

                         DON

             Is the kitchen still open?

 

LATER

 

Don sitting at the bar, nursing a beer, waiting for the food.

 

A RANCHER takes the stool next to him.

 

                         RANCHER

                  (to bartender)

             Regular, Doris!

 

The rancher looks at him.

 

                         DON.

             I was wondering if you knew Emil

             Collins or Emma Simpson.

 

The rancher grins.


                                                           63.

 

 

                         RANCHER

             What are you, an uncover cop from

             Boise? Well, I don't know where

             the hell they are for one, for

             two I wouldn't tell you if I did,

             and for three, whatever the hell

             they've done, it can't be worse

             than being cooped up in a damn

             rest home somewhere.

 

 

EXT. BAR - NIGHT

 

Don comes out, carrying a sack of burgers.

 

 

EXT. MESA - NIGHT

 

Only Emil and Emma outside now. Still looking up at the

meteor shower.

 

                          EMMA

                  (counting meteors)

             Two hundred and five.

 

                         EMIL

             One eighty-four. Eighty-five!

 

                          EMMA

             Two hundred and six!

 

 

INT. HOMESTEAD - MOTEL - NIGHT

 

Marti and Don at the table. Eating burgers and fries for

dinner.

 

The phone rings.

 

Marti dashes for it.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - NIGHT

 

Sara making the call. Her boyfriend, Jason, stands next to her.

 

                         SARA

             She's going to kill me.

 

 

INTERCUT

 

                         MARTI

             Hello.


                                                           64.

 

 

                         SARA

                  (meekly)

             It's me.

 

                         MARTI

             Where have you been? Where's your

             brother and granddad?

 

                         SARA

             I don't know. Is Gramps really

             dying?

 

                         MARTI

             No thanks to you. You are grounded

             forever!

 

Don comes forward.

 

                         DON

             Give me the phone.

 

Marti clutches it.

 

                         SARA

             It was an emergency. Jason needed

             to go out of town for a job

             interview and needed moral

             support. On the way back we had a

             flat, and then his spare ended up

             being flat, and--

 

Don has wrestled away the phone.

 

                         DON

             It's me. Did they mention anything

             about coming to Idaho?

 

                         SARA

             They're in Idaho?

                  (to Jason)

             They're in Idaho.

 

 

EXT. MESA - NIGHT

 

Holding hands, Emil and Emma slowly walk to the tent.

 

Before going in, Emma stops him. She kisses him.

 

                          EMMA

             You haven't talked about your

             health.

 

He looks suspicious.


                                                           65.

 

 

                         EMIL

             Do I look dead or something?

 

                          EMMA

             I was wondering if, you know,

             you're sexually active.

 

                         EMIL

             I haven't been for years.

 

                          EMMA

             The machinery broke?

 

                         EMIL

             Oh, no. Now and again I rise in

             the morning, if you know what I

             mean.

 

                          EMMA

             You just have nothing to do with

             it. Well, now you do.

 

 

INT. TENT - NIGHT

 

Awkward, comic, Emil and Emma try to crawl into one sleeping

bag without waking Billy, who sleeps nearby with only the

empty bag between them.

 

                         EMIL

                  (whispering)

             This will never work.

 

                          EMMA

                  (whispering)

             We won't know unless we try.

 

They maneuver into the bag together, Emil angled above her.

Now they struggle to get their pants off.

 

It's not an easy thing to do -- and in the process Emma gets

the giggles.

 

                         EMIL

             Sshh.

 

But trying to stop her only gives him the giggles.

 

                         BILLY

             What's so funny?

 

This gets them laughing louder.


                                                           66.

 

 

                         BILLY

             Have you two been drinking?

 

And louder still.

 

                         BILLY

             You are really weird.

 

Emil and Emma manage to get control of themselves.

 

                         EMIL

                  (whispering)

             He's right.

 

Which gets them laughing again.

 

 

EXT. MESA - CAMPING AREA - DAY

 

On the tarp, Emma is zipping two sleeping bags together.

 

Billy comes out of the tent.

 

                         BILLY

             Morning.

 

                          EMMA

             Good morning, Billy.

 

                         BILLY

             Where's Gramps?

 

                          EMMA

             He headed off yonder with a

             shovel. Sorry we woke you up.

 

                         BILLY

             What was so funny?

 

Emma starts to reply but laughs instead. She raises a hand,

as if excusing herself.

 

Billy, shaking his head, wanders off.

 

 

INT. TENT - DAY

 

Emma comes in with the zipped-together bag. She makes room

for it.

 

Moving Emil's travel bag, a small bottle of medicine drops out.

 

Emma picks it up and reads the label.


                                                           67.

 

 

An immediate expression of concern.

 

 

EXT. MESA - DAY

 

Emil approaching camp without the shovel.

 

Emma coming out to meet him.

 

                         EMIL

             I gave Billy the shovel if you

             need it.

 

                          EMMA

             Why are you in pain? I found your

             pills. What's going on, Emil? I

             want the truth.

 

 

EXT. MESA - CAMP FIRE - DAY

 

Emil and Emma huddled close around a fire to ward off the

morning chill.

 

Billy returns, carrying the shovel.

 

                         EMIL

             Sit down, lad.

 

                         BILLY

             What happened to breakfast?

 

                         EMIL

             We'll get to it. I have something

             to tell you.

 

                          EMMA

             We have something.

 

Billy, puzzled, sits down.

 

 

INT. FAST FOOD JOINT - DAY

 

Jenny at a table with the two sheriffs, Marti and Don.

 

                         JENNY

             Does Billy know his granddad's

             dying?

 

                         MARTI

             Nobody knew. He didn't tell anyone.


                                                           68.

 

 

                         DEP. HALL

             No hint where they might go from

             the river?

 

                         JENNY

             I thought they were coming back

             to Homestead.

 

 

EXT. FAST FOOD JOINT - DAY

 

Jenny seeing off the deputies. Marti and Don stand nearby,

waiting.

 

                         JENNY

             Will you let me know how Billy is?

 

                         DEP. HALL

             Sure thing.

 

 

INT. FAST FOOD JOINT - DAY

 

Jenny comes inside.

 

                         YVONNE

             Phone, Jenny!

 

 

EXT. DESERT TOWN - GAS STATION - DAY

 

Emil filling the tank.

 

Billy on a nearby payphone.

 

 

INTERCUT

 

                         JENNY

             Hello?

 

                         BILLY

             It's Billy.

 

                         JENNY

             Where are you?

 

                         BILLY

             I can't say. I just want you to

             know I'm okay.


                                                           69.

 

 

                         JENNY

             Your parents are here. Billy,

             everyone's worried about your

             granddad because--

 

                         BILLY

             I know what's going on. That's

             why I have to help him.

 

                         JENNY

             Help him what?

 

                         BILLY

             I can't say. I just wanted you

             not to worry. I can't call again

             until this is over.

 

                         JENNY

             I was so worried about you.

 

                         BILLY

             Jenny, I have to run.

 

                         JENNY

             Billy--

 

                         BILLY

             I really like you a lot. Bye.

 

Hanging up, Billy has to catch his breath.

 

So does Jenny.

 

 

EXT. GAS STATION - DAY

 

Billy returns to the car. Emil hangs up the pump.

 

                         BILLY

             I called Jenny. I didn't tell her

             where we're going or anything.

 

                         EMIL

             I didn't figure you would. I'm

             proud that you're willing to help

             me with this, Billy.

 

Emma returns from the rest room.

 

                          EMMA

             Well. I'm good for a hundred

             miles, I should think.


                                                           70.

 

 

                         EMIL

             My turn.

 

 

INT. GAS STATION - REST ROOM - DAY

 

Emil pops a pain pill at the sink. Deep breath.

 

He looks at himself in the mirror. Pops a second pill.

 

 

EXT. DESERT SOUTHWEST - ROAD - DAY

 

The VW convertible, top down, Billy driving, racing down a

country road.

 

Emil and Emma in the back seat. More serious than before,

though. A destination hangs over them.

 

 

EXT. MOTEL - NIGHT

 

The VW parked in front of a motel room.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - NIGHT

 

Billy's bag on one bed. On the other, Emil's and Emma's.

Obviously they will share a bed.

 

 

INT. RESTAURANT - BOOTH - NIGHT

 

Over dinner in a booth.

 

Emil makes a slight sound.

 

                          EMMA

             Are you okay?

 

                         EMIL

             Excuse me.

 

He gets up and heads for the men's room.

 

Emma watches him closely.

 

                          EMMA

             He's in more pain than he lets on.

 

Billy is quiet.


                                                           71.

 

 

INT. RESTAURANT - MEN'S ROOM - NIGHT

 

Emil at the sink. He pops a pill, then cups his hand for

water, chases it down.

 

He stares at himself in the mirror. He closes his eyes

against what he sees.

 

 

INT. RESTAURANT - BOOTH - NIGHT

 

Dessert and coffee.

 

                         EMIL

             I've come up with a plan. I don't

             think you'll like it, so I'm

             giving you another chance to bail

             out.

 

                          EMMA

             I'm not bailing out of anything.

 

                         BILLY

             Me neither.

 

                         EMIL

             Better wait till you hear what I

             have to say.

 

They wait.

 

Emil clears his throat. This isn't going to be easy.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - NIGHT

 

Emil pacing.

 

Billy on the bed, nervous.

 

The bathroom door closed.

 

                         EMIL

             Emma? You're not making matters

             any easier.

 

No reply beyond the door.

 

                         EMIL

             I shouldn't have told her.

 

Billy opens his mouth but no words come.


                                                           72.

 

 

                         EMIL

             Not you, too.

                  (to the door)

             Emma? I'm going to bed.

 

Emil goes to his bed. Strips to underwear and crawls in.

 

Billy still sitting on the bed.

 

                         EMIL

             I need to find a good bookstore.

             There's something you two need to

             hear.

 

He turns off his light.

 

                         EMIL

             Goodnight.

 

Billy sits, fighting back tears.

 

 

EXT. MOTEL - DAY

 

Early morning. Emil comes out.

 

He walks across the lot toward the restaurant.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - DAY

 

Billy asleep.

 

In the other bed, Emma wakes. She realizes Emil is gone.

 

 

INT. RESTAURANT - BOOTH - DAY

 

Emil over coffee, reading the paper.

 

Emma slips into the booth across from him.

 

                          EMMA

             Good morning.

 

                         EMIL

             Morning.

 

                          EMMA

             I got it out of my system.

 

                         EMIL

             I think maybe you should go home.


                                                           73.

 

 

                          EMMA

             Don't you dare say that. What

             you're going through is not

             something a man should do alone.

             He needs people around who care

             for him. Billy adores you.

 

Emil looks at her for the first time.

 

                          EMMA

             I adore you.

 

She offers her hand. He takes it.

 

The WAITRESS arrives.

 

                         WAITRESS

             Don't you two look like you're on

             your honeymoon?

 

 

EXT. MOTEL - DAY

 

Packing the VW. The top is up.

 

                         EMIL

             Billy, you want to start?

 

Billy gets in behind the wheel. Emil and Emma in back.

 

 

EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY

 

The VW zipping along, top still up.

 

From the back seat, Emil leans forward and gestures for

Billy to take an exit into an approaching town.

 

 

EXT. SMALL TOWN - STREET - DAY

 

The VW is parked on the street.

 

 

INT. SMALL TOWN - BOOKSTORE - DAY

 

Emil rooting around the shelves. He goes to the counter.

 

                         CLERK

             May I help you?

 

                         EMIL

             I surely hope so.


                                                           74.

 

 

INT. SMALL TOWN - CAFE - DAY

 

Billy and Emma in a booth.

 

Emil joins them.

 

                          EMMA

             Any luck?

 

                         EMIL

             Nope. I need a decent bookstore.

             We'll take a side trip to Boise.

             It's not too much out of the way.

 

 

EXT. HOMESTEAD - SHERIFF'S OFFICE - DAY

 

The rental car in front of the small building of the

sheriff's office.

 

 

INT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - DAY

 

Marti and Don meeting with Dep. Hall.

 

                         DEP. HALL

             I'm serious. There's nothing you

             can do here. It may be a day, it

             might be a week or more. Depends

             on where they are and how visible

             they're letting themselves be.

 

                         MARTI

             We want to be here when you find

             them.

 

                         DEP. HALL

             We'll call you immediately. It's

             up to you.

 

Marti and Don exchange a glance.

 

                         DON

             I do need to check in at work.

 

 

INT. AIRPORT - TERMINAL - DAY

 

Don and Marti in line to board.

 

                         MARTI

             What if he's already dead?

 

Don doesn't reply.


                                                           75.

 

 

EXT. INTERSTATE - OUTSIDE BOISE - DAY

 

The VW approaching Boise. Billy driving, top up.

 

 

INT. BOISE - BOOKSTORE - DAY

 

All three in the bookstore. Browsing.

 

Emil in the Poetry section.

 

Eureka! He pulls out, "Selected Poems" by Lew Welch.

 

 

EXT. BOOKSTORE - DAY

 

They exit the bookstore. Emil carries the paperback in a bag.

 

 

EXT. BOISE - MOTEL - NIGHT

 

The VW parked in the lot of a Boise motel.

 

 

INT. MOTEL - ROOM - NIGHT

 

Emma and Billy sit anxiously at the table.

 

Emil stands before them, book in hand.

 

                         EMIL

             I feel like I'm back in the

             classroom.

 

                          EMMA

             I bet you were a wonderful teacher.

 

                         EMIL

             Flattery will get you everywhere.

 

He clears his throat.

 

                         EMIL

             Let me put what I'm going to read

             in context. Lew Welch was a minor

             poet among the Beats. Also an

             alcoholic. So Gary Snyder, a

             better known poet of the era,

             lets Welch use his mountain cabin

             in order to dry out. When Snyder

             returns to check in on him, Welch

             is gone. Also gone is the shotgun

             Snyder kept there.

                         (MORE)


                                                           76.

 

 

                         EMIL (CONT'D)

             And there's a long poem on the

             writing desk and in the typewriter.

             This is the last section of that

             poem, which is called, "Song of

             the Turkey Buzzard."

 

Again he clears his throat. Emma and Billy wait.

 

                         EMIL

             "Hear my Last Will & Testament:

             Among my friends there shall

             always be one with proper

             instructions for my continuance.

             Let no one grieve. I shall have

             used it all up, used up every bit

             of it. What an extravagance! What

             a relief! On a marked rock,

             following his orders, place my

             meat. All care must be taken not

             to frighten the natives of this

             barbarous land, who will not let

             us die, even, as we wish. With

             proper ceremony disembowel what I

             no longer need, that it might

             more quickly rot and tempt my new

             form. Not the bronze casket but

             the brazen wing, soaring forever

             above thee, o perfect, o sweetest

             water, o glorious wheeling bird."

 

Silence.

 

Emma fights back tears. Billy looks confused.

 

                         EMIL

             "All care must be taken not to

             frighten the natives of this

             barbarous land, who will not let

             us die, even, as we wish." This

             part applies directly to me. I

             know how I want to die. I know

             the authorities, even my own

             daughter, would not approve. I've

             taken you into my trust because I

             feel you, if not approve, at

             least will understand what I plan

             to do. But this is not the time

             to reveal what. In the morning,

             we go home to God's country.

 

                         BILLY

             Are we going back to Homestead?


                                                           77.

 

 

                         EMIL

             Close.

 

 

EXT. RESTAURANT - NIGHT

 

They come out of the restaurant.

 

                          EMMA

                  (to Emil)

             Let's walk.

 

                         EMIL

                  (to Billy)

             We'll see you back at the motel.

 

                         BILLY

             Later then.

 

Billy heads out.

 

Emil and Emma linger, begin walking in another direction.

 

 

EXT. PARK - NIGHT

 

A small park along the way.

 

                          EMMA

             I want to know.

 

                         EMIL

             This is something I have to do

             alone.

 

                          EMMA

             I know that. I just want to be as

             much a part of you as you'll let

             me be.

 

                         EMIL

             I should have married you.

 

                          EMMA

             No. This is so perfect, it had to

             happen just this way.

 

Emil stops and draws her close.


                                                           78.

 

 

                         EMIL

             I'm going to the Salmon River out

             of White Bird. It's where my

             people come from. I'm going to

             fish. And then I'm going to end

             my journey in the river. Don't

             ask me to say more than this.

 

They embrace and kiss.

 

 

EXT. MOTEL - DAY

 

Packing up the VW.

 

                         EMIL

             I'll drive. One more errand.

 

 

EXT. BOISE - MINI-MALL - DAY

 

Emil parks in a mini-mall.

 

                         EMIL

             You two wait for me at Starbucks.

 

                         BILLY

             Where are you going?

 

                         EMIL

             I won't be long.

 

Emil heads out.

 

                         BILLY

                  (to Emma)

             Do you know what's going on?

 

                          EMMA

             Let's do as he says.

 

They head for nearby Starbucks.

 

 

EXT. MINI-MALL - GUN SHOP - DAY

 

Emil enters a gun shop.

 

 

INT. GUN SHOP - DAY

 

Emil is overwhelmed by the variety of weapons he faces.

 

He wanders around.


                                                           79.

 

 

Finally he stops at a display of pistols.

 

 

EXT. STARBUCKS - OUTDOOR TABLE - DAY

 

Billy and Emma drink coffee, waiting for Emil.

 

                         BILLY

             Here he comes

 

Across the way, Emil puts something in the car. Then he

approaches.

 

                         EMIL

             I'm ready when you guys are.

 

                         BILLY

             What'd you get?

 

Emil sits down.

 

                         EMIL

             I might as well let you in on

             this, too, Billy. I bought a gun.

 

Emma looks away, hit by the reality of the moment. Billy's

expression reveals a slow understanding of Emil's meaning.

 

                         EMIL

             The thing is, you have to consider

             the alternatives. The doctor

             wanted to put me in a hospice. He

             means well. He doesn't want me to

             suffer. But if I'd done that,

             look at all the adventure we'd

             have missed. You still wouldn't

             have caught a fish. For me, this

             way is better.

 

                         BILLY

             For me, too, Gramps.

 

                         EMIL

             Good.

 

He puts his hand on Billy's.

 

                         EMIL

             Good.

 

 

EXT. INTERSTATE - DAY

 

Back on the interstate. Billy driving, the top down.


                                                           80.

 

 

Emil and Emma in back. They sit close, Emil's arm around her.

 

 

EXT. INTERSTATE - ANOTHER AREA - DAY

 

A police car behind the VW turns its lights on.

 

Billy pulls to the shoulder.

 

 

INT./EXT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Emil turns around, sees the police car pull behind.

 

                         EMIL

             Were you speeding?

 

                         BILLY

             Unfortunately.

 

The POLICE OFFICER approaches. He looks at Billy, Emil, Emma.

 

                         POLICE OFFICER

             I bet you're Emil Collins.

 

                         EMIL

             I am.

 

                         POLICE OFFICER

             You've got a lot of people

             worried about you, old timer.

 

 

INT. RHODES HOUSE - NIGHT

 

Marti answers the phone.

 

                         MARTI

             Hello?...Thank God!

 

 

EXT. POLICE STATION - DAY

 

The VW and police car pull up. Everyone gets out.

 

A FEMALE OFFICER approaches to lead Emma inside. Behind them,

the officer leads Emil and Billy.

 

 

INT. POLICE STATION - ENTRY - DAY

 

The women move toward one hallway, the men toward another.


                                                           81.

 

 

                          EMMA

             Emil, we're jailbirds!

 

                         EMIL

             Keep your spirits up!

 

                          EMMA

             Oh, they're up! Up and up and up!

 

 

INT. POLICE STATION - CELL - DAY

 

The police officer leads Emil and Billy to a cell. It's

modern and comfortable as far as jails go.

 

                         POLICE OFFICER

             Here we go. It ain't the Ritz but

             there's worse, believe me.

 

Emil and Billy enter. The officer closes the door behind them.

 

                         EMIL

             What time's the cocktail hour?

 

The officer grins and shakes his head.

 

                         POLICE OFFICER

             I thought you were supposed to be

             sick.

 

                         EMIL

             You ought to see me when I'm not.

 

The officer leaves.

 

There's a bunk bed against the wall.

 

                         EMIL

             You want top or bottom?

 

                         BILLY

             Top.

 

                         EMIL

             Ever been in jail before?

 

                         BILLY

             No way.

 

                         EMIL

             Guess you're a jailbird, too.

             Just don't list this on your

             college application.


                                                           82.

 

 

EXT. AIRPORT - NIGHT

 

A small jetliner lands.

 

 

INT. AIRPORT - TERMINAL - NIGHT

 

Marti and Don enter. They head directly to a car rental booth.

 

 

INT. CELL - NIGHT

 

Emil and Billy on their bunks. Lights spill into the cell.

 

In the bottom bunk, Emil pops a pain pill.

 

                         BILLY

             Gramps, you awake?

 

                         EMIL

             I appear to be.

 

                         BILLY

             What are you going to do now?

 

                         EMIL

             That is what used to be called

             the sixty-four thousand dollar

             question.

 

 

EXT. POLICE STATION - DAY

 

A rental car pulls up, Don behind the wheel. It parks beside

the VW.

 

Marti and Don get out. Don inspects the VW.

 

                         DON

             Looks fine.

 

Marti already heading for the entrance.

 

 

INT. POLICE STATION - WAITING ROOM - DAY

 

Emil, Billy and Emma seated at a long table. The police

officer stands.

 

The door opens, and Marti and Don enter.

 

                         MARTI

             Oh, Dad. What am I going to do

             with you?


                                                           83.

 

 

                         EMIL

             Too late for talk like that, I'm

             afraid.

 

                         MARTI

             You had us worried to death.

 

                         EMIL

             This is Emma. My daughter, Marti.

 

                          EMMA

             Hello.

 

                         MARTI

             Hello.

 

                         DON

             Hi.

 

                         MARTI

             Billy. I can't believe you got

             involved in something like this.

 

                         POLICE OFFICER

             If I could get some signatures, I

             can send you folks on your way.

 

 

EXT. POLICE STATION - DAY

 

Emil, Emma, Billy, Marti and Don come out. They stop at the

cars. A moment of indecision.

 

                         DON

             Somebody has to take Emma back to

             Homestead. Marti, why don't you

             do that in the VW and follow us.

 

                          EMMA

             I'd like to ride with Emil.

 

                         MARTI

             I don't think that's a good idea.

 

                         EMIL

             Of course it's a good idea. We

             own the back seat. Come on.

 

Emil and Emma climb into the back seat of the VW.

 

Marti stares at Don, as if to say, Do something!


                                                           84.

 

 

                         DON

             Billy, guess that leaves you with

             me.

 

Marti can't believe her eyes: Don and Billy get into the

rental car.

 

She has no choice but to get behind the wheel of the VW.

 

The rental car pulls out first. Then the VW.

 

At the window, the police officer has been watching.

 

 

INT. POLICE STATION - WINDOW - DAY

 

The police officer grins and shakes his head, watching them go.

 

Another OFFICE passes by.

 

                         POLICE OFFICER

             I love that old son-of-a-bitch.

 

 

EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY

 

The caravan heading to Homestead, the rental car in front,

the VW behind.

 

 

INT. VW CONVERTIBLE - DAY

 

Marti looks in the rear view mirror. Emil and Emma sitting

close. Quiet, content.

 

Marti looks mentally frazzled.

 

 

INT. RENTAL CAR - DAY

 

Don driving.

 

                         DON

             You know he's very sick, don't you?

 

                         BILLY

             He just wants to die the way he

             wants to. What's wrong with that?

 

Don has no answer for him.


                                                           85.

 

 

EXT. SMALL TOWN - DAY

 

The cars cruise on Main Street of a small town.

 

They park in front of a cafe.

 

 

INT. CAFE - TABLE - DAY

 

Around the table with menus. A WAITRESS arrives.

 

 

INT. CAFE - TABLE - DAY (LATER)

 

Empty lunch dishes. Emil is missing.

 

 

INT. CAFE - REST ROOM - DAY

 

Emil at the sink. More pain pills. There aren't many left.

 

 

INT. CAFE - TABLE - DAY

 

Emil returns.

 

                         EMIL

             Everything came out okay.

 

                         MARTI

             Dad, you're incorrigible.

 

                         EMIL

             There's a big word.

 

                         MARTI

             You enjoy driving me crazy.

 

                         EMIL

             You drive yourself crazy.

 

Marti gets up. Her car keys are on the table.

 

                         MARTI

             Excuse me.

 

She heads for the rest room.

 

Don picks up the bill.

 

                         DON

             Might as well take care of this.

 

He goes to the cash register, leaving ...


                                                           86.

 

 

Emil, Emma and Billy alone.

 

                          EMMA

             I've got an idea. I'm going to

             have a seizure. In the confusion,

             you two grab the VW and get where

             you have to get.

 

                         BILLY

             Gramps, let's do it!

 

                         EMIL

             We'd have to get a different car

             as soon as possible. There should

             be a rental agency in the next

             town, it's large enough.

 

                          EMMA

             I'll start to the ladies room and

             collapse on the way. You ready?

 

                         EMIL

             I should have married you.

 

                          EMMA

             Quit saying that. Would we be

             having all this fun now? Here he

             comes. I'm glad I know you, Mr.

             Emil Collins. You've brought

             sunshine into my life.

 

                         EMIL

             My sweetest Emma.

 

Don heads back.

 

Emma gets up and starts to the rest room.

 

                         EMIL

              Emma!

 

She turns. Emil mouths "I love you!" She smiles and continues

on.

 

Marti exits the rest room and comes toward her.

 

Suddenly Emma falls to the floor.

 

                         MARTI

             My God!

 

                         DON

                  (to waitress)

             Somebody call 911!


                                                           87.

 

 

Marti and Don rush to Emma's side.

 

Billy grabs the VW keys. He and Emil walk quickly to the door.

 

 

EXT. CAFE - DAY

 

They climb into the VW, Billy behind the wheel. They take off.

 

 

INT. CAFE - DAY

 

Everyone is huddled around Emma.

 

Suddenly she starts shaking. At first, it appears she might

be having a seizure. But in fact she is unable to control

her laughter.

 

Emma becomes a laughing maniac.

 

Everyone is puzzled. Then Marti looks out the window and

notices that the VW is gone.

 

                         MARTI

             Don, they're gone!

 

Don rushes to the window.

 

                         DON

             I'll call the police. They won't

             get far.

 

 

EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY

 

The VW cruising down the highway. Obeying the speed limit.

 

 

EXT. HIGHWAY - EXIT - DAY

 

The VW takes an exit to a town.

 

 

EXT. TOWN - RENTAL CAR AGENCY - DAY

 

The VW parked outside. Billy waiting by the car.

 

Emil comes out with keys.

 

                         EMIL

             We don't want to leave your

             mother's car here. Makes it too

             easy for them. We'll park where

             it'll take a while to find it.


                                                           88.

 

 

EXT. TOWN - SUPERMARKET

 

The new rental car, with Emil driving, enters the parking

lot of a supermarket. The VW follows.

 

Emil gestures for Billy to park. He does.

 

Emil also parks. He gets out and goes to the VW. Billy

climbs out.

 

Emil opens the passenger door. Then the VW glove compartment.

He takes out a pistol.

 

                         EMIL

             You drive.

 

                         BILLY

             You bet.

 

                         EMIL

             They won't find the car till

             tomorrow earliest. And that's all

             the head start we need.

 

                         BILLY

             Can I hold the gun?

 

                         EMIL

             Why do you want to do a thing

             like that?

 

He hands Billy the pistol anyway.

 

                         BILLY

             Is it loaded?

 

                         EMIL

             Not yet. Let's get out of here.

 

Billy returns the gun.

 

They climb into the rental, Billy behind the wheel.

 

 

EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY

 

The rental car on a deserted road.

 

 

INT. RENTAL CAR - DAY

 

Billy still driving.


                                                           89.

 

 

                         EMIL

             How you holding up? I can relieve

             you.

 

                         BILLY

             I'm not close to tired.

 

                         EMIL

             Ah, youth!

 

                         BILLY

             How far before we stop?

 

                         EMIL

             Well, if you don't mind driving,

             we could get there tonight.

 

                         BILLY

             Let's do it.

 

 

EXT. COUNTRY STORE - NIGHT

 

The rental car pulls up to a country store.

 

 

INT. RENTAL CAR - NIGHT

 

Billy, behind the wheel, starts to get out. Emil touches him.

 

                         EMIL

             This is where I get off.

 

Billy looks confused.

 

                         EMIL

             I want you to drive back to

             Homestead and turn yourself in.

 

                         BILLY

             Why?

 

                         EMIL

             This is the end of the line.

 

                         BILLY

             But you were going fishing.

 

                         EMIL

             There's a trail behind the store.

             Leads right to the river.


                                                           90.

 

 

                         BILLY

             You don't have a pole, bait,

             nothing.

 

                         EMIL

             There's fishing and then there's

             fishing.

 

Billy now looks on the verge of tears.

 

                         EMIL

             Sometimes when I'm fishing, I

             wish I had no bait on the hook

             because the last thing I want is

             a bite. It would spoil the

             serenity of the moment. It would

             spoil another kind of fishing I'm

             doing out there.

 

                         BILLY

             I don't get it.

 

                         EMIL

             Sometimes I'm out on the river

             fishing for ... what's the word?

             Understanding. An understanding

             of myself. When you get to be my

             age, you'll get it fine.

 

A silence.

 

                         BILLY

             What do I tell mom?

 

                         EMIL

             That you're the best grandson a

             fella could have. You give me

             respect, Billy. This whole trip,

             you gave me nothing but respect.

             I couldn't ask for anything more

             from you. I love you, lad.

 

                         BILLY

             I love you, Gramps.

 

Now the tears come.

 

                         BILLY

             I'm sorry.

 

He takes out a handkerchief, tries to get himself under

control.


                                                           91.

 

 

                         EMIL

             Never apologize for feeling

             deeply. Now I want you to do one

             last thing for me.

 

                         BILLY

             Okay.

 

                         EMIL

             Your mother's going to get her

             way in the end. They'll find me,

             they'll be a funeral and a lot of

             nice speeches and the rest. And

             then I'll get the bronze casket.

             That's fine. But while you're

             watching me go six feet under,

             look around and see if you can

             see a bird in the sky. That's

             where my spirit will be. On "the

             brazen wing." And I couldn't have

             done this without you, lad.

 

Emil gives Billy a hug.

 

Emil gets out. He leans into the window.

 

                         EMIL

             You drive safely now. Go on. I

             want to see you driving down the

             road.

 

Billy nods. He backs up. The VW moves back down the road.

 

Emil watches till the car is out of sight.

 

 

EXT. RIVER - NIGHT

 

A quiet peaceful spot along the river. A bright moon overhead

throws light onto the water.

 

Emil sits on a stump overlooking the river. He holds the

pistol.

 

A bald eagle in a tree. Silence.

 

A deer in the brush. Silence.

 

The moon, almost full. Magical.

 

Suddenly: BANG.

 

The deer scurries into the brush.


                                                           92.

 

 

The eagle takes flight.

 

The stump along the river is vacant.

 

 

EXT. CEMETERY - DAY

 

MOURNERS at Emil's grave site. Family and friends, including

Wally.

 

The bronze casket being lowered into the ground.

 

In front, with his parents, is Billy. In a dark suit. Somber.

 

He looks up. He searches the sky and ...

 

...there it is! A bird gliding on the air currents.

 

A magnificent, glorious, wheeling bird!

 

                         EMIL (V.O.)

             "Not the bronze casket but the

             brazen wing, soaring forever

             above thee, o perfect, o sweetest

             water, o glorious wheeling bird."

 

A smile comes to Billy's lips.

 

                                            FADE OUT