An
Inside Job
Originally
Aired October 7, 1986
Boy Will Be Boys - Final Draft Script - July 23, 1986
Written by: MaryAnne Kasica, Michael Scheff, & Rick Mittleman
Released Under Show Title: The Adventures of Simon McKay
CAST LIST
Simon McKay
Alex Jagger
Tillie Russell
Traveno
Mary Hansen
Carl Dekker
Stereo System Voice
Todd
Mrs. Cranston
Refrigerator (Computerized Voice)
Anchorwoman
Pilot's Voice
Controller's Voice
Cabin Attendant
Back to Top
SET LIST
INTERIORS:
Hotel Room - Day
Car - Day
Simon's House -
Kitchen - Day & Night
Workshop - Day
Secret Workshop - Day & Night
Den - Night
Secret Workshop Door
Secret Workshop Closet Door
Hallway / Stairs - Day
Tenement - Day
Empty Apartment - Day
Bronco - Day
Warehouse - Day
Workbench Area - Day
Workshop Area - Day
Catwalk - Day
Elevator - Day
Elevator Well
Elevator Shaft
Van - Day
Cargo Area - Day
Jet Liner - Day
Hansen's TV Monitor - Day
EXTERIORS:
Fashionable Hotel - Day (Stock)
Alley - Long Shot - Day
Backyard - Day
Neighbor's Yard - Day
Simon's Backyard - Day
Garage - Night
Subjective Aerial P.O.V. (Point of View) - Open Field - Day
Large Meadow - Day
Binocular Matte - Model Plane - Day
Woods - Day
Insert Shot - Model Plane
Simon's House - Night (Stock)
Back Alley - Night
Garage Area - Night
Alleyway - Van - Night
Workshop - Day
"All Night Movie" Marquee
Sidewalk - Ghetto Area - Day
City Street - Day
Burned Out Tenement - Day
Deserted Hallway
City Street - Bronco Drive-By - Day (Stock)
Warehouse - Front Gate - Day
Warehouse - Day
Freeway - Van - Day
Gas Station - Day
Phone Booth - Day
Airport Approach - Day
Roadway - Day
Giant Jumbo Jet - Day (Stock)
Industrial Park - Day
Airport Approach - Bronco Drive-By - Day (Stock)
Van - Model Plane
Jet Liner in Flight - Day (Stock)
Model Airplane (Golden Fleece) - Day
Frontage Road - Day
Empty Lot - Day
Jet Liner - Day (Stock)
Jet Liner in Flight - Binocular Matte - (Stock)
Van - Day
Parking Lot - Day
Two Models in Light - Binocular Matte - Day
Slow Motion Shot - Bronco - Day
Back to Top
ACT ONE
FADE IN
EXT. FASHIONABLE HOTEL - ESTABLISHING - DAY (STOCK) - 1
TIGHT ON BEDSPREAD - 2
CAMERA PANS a litter of papers, political tracts & brochures, a crudely xeroxed political cartoon showing Uncle Sam as the dove of peace about to dive-bomb an amateurish rendering of Central America . . . CONTINUES PANNING PAST an open glove-leather attache' case containing an automatic pistol & several clips along with an electric razor, utility kit, etc . . . over which we hear a cultured voice with a heavy Latino accent:
TRAVENO (voice over)
The truth can no longer be denied. Central America has exploded like a raging brush fire. South America is next . . .
The CAMERA PANS ACROSS the hotel room & HOLDS ON:
DR. JUAN TRAVENO - 3
Although in shirt-sleeves, Traveno's tailored clothes & cultured bearing speak of his diplomatic stature. At the moment, his eyes burn with emotion as he tosses a copy of this morning's newspaper into the laps of two callers, CARL DEKKER, a boyishly good-looking , athletic-type with eyes the color of blue ice . . . & MARY HANSEN, stylishly attractive, intelligent, all business. They glance at the headlines which read: "PEACE CONFERENCE TO CONVENE."
TRAVENO
So you must understand, any attempts to negotiate a peaceful solution would not be in the best interests of the Revolutionary Front.
Hansen interrupts with an impatient smile.
HANSEN
With all due apologies, Dr. Traveno -- the package?
TRAVENO
'Package?'
DEKKER
The target . . . the hit . . . what you're paying us for!
TRAVENO
Ah! Forgive me. I forgot your political loyalties go no further than . . .
(studies a slip)
. . . Box 1521 . . . Bank of Zurich.
(intently)
Very simply. Condor Airlines Flight 524 arrives from San Paolo in two days carrying the 15-nation San Paolo Peace delegation. I want the plane blown up just as it touches American soil.
(on their reaction)
An unfortunate loss of life, I know . . . but it will be just the international incident we are looking for to destroy American credibility for decades to come.
HANSEN
What about your own agents?
TRAVENO
Impossible. The airport, the parade cavalcade, the hotel security is much too tight. No! We pay what you ask because you are best at what you do.
Back to Top
EXT. ALLEY - LONG SHOT - DAY - 4
Simon's Bronco moves down the residential service alley that runs behind his house & turns into his garage. CAMERA PANS TO:
TIGHT SHOT - TODD - 5
in the f.g. (foreground), watching intently FROM a HIDDEN VANTAGE POINT across the alleyway. Tough, streetwise, & oozing hostility from every pore, the 12-year-old Todd is dressed in worn jeans, a tattered pullover & a pair of old sneakers.
ON SIMON - 6
climbing down from behind the wheel & reaching for a bag of groceries as ALEX circles the other way & removes several more bags of groceries via the rear window.
SIMON (wrinkling nose as he inspects contents)
Uggh! Squash . . . spinach . . . brussels sprouts. What's Tillie trying to do? Kill us?
ALEX (laughing)
What a way to go. 'Vegetabled' to death.
Simon closes the car door & locks it, then joins Alex & heads for the garage door leading to the rear of the house.
SIMON (as they go)
Next time I make up the shopping list!
ANGLE ON TODD - 7
He makes sure the coast is clear, then slips furtively into the garage & peeks through the side window of the Bronco.
TODD'S P.O.V. - TIGHT SHOT - CAR STEREO - 8
A state-of-the-art wonder we'd expect from Simon, now the obvious object of Todd's attention.
BACK TO TODD - 9
He slips a thin shiv from under his sweater & pops the door lock. Silently, he opens the door & sprawls across the front seat producing a screwdriver which he starts to apply to the dash panel bolts that secure the stereo system. All of a sudden, the tuner LIGHTS UP in a rainbow of colors & the speaker system, literally, starts SHOUTING ALTERNATELY with BEEPS! OF THE CAR HORN & THUMPS! OF THE CAR HOOD that BANGS UP & DOWN.
STEREO SYSTEM VOICE
Simon! . . . BEEP! . . . Help! . . . BEEP! . . . THUMP! . . . Simon! . . . BEEP! . . . Help! . . . BEEP! . . . THUMP!
Todd recoils & leaps out of the car as if struck by lighting, muttering to himself.
TODD
Oh jeez!
EXT. BACKYARD - 10
Simon & Alex react to the commotion.
SIMON
My car alarm!
ALEX
Wait here!
Alex hands Simon his two bags of groceries practically burying him & rushes back toward the garage.
BACK TO TODD - 11
turning tail & sprinting down the alley. CAMERA HOLDS as Alex bursts back through the side door in hot pursuit.
THE CHASE - 12
Todd knocks over several trash barrels which Alex deftly hurdles & leaps a fence into a neighbor's yard. Alex, a few strides behind, gracefully vaults the fence.
EXT. NEIGHBOR'S YARD - 13
strung with laundry drying in the warm morning sun. CAMERA TRUCKS WITH Alex dodging THROUGH the obstacle course as Todd, a few yards in advance, pulls everything off the line desperately trying to slow Alex down.
ON HOUSEWIFE (MRS. CRANSTON) - 14
She pauses from sweeping the back stoop & looks on in shock as Todd runs past her & veers back in the direction of the alleyway. Furious at seeing her morning's labor go down the tubes, she pounds Alex with her broom as he rushes by in pursuit of Todd.
MRS. CRANSTON
Oh! You beast!
TIGHT ON TODD - 15
rushing back into the alley through an open gate & only to have Alex overtake him & clamp down on his shirt collar.
ALEX
Hold it right there, pal!
Simon approaches Todd & displays the shiv.
SIMON
I believe this belongs to you?
TODD
Lemme go!
(screaming loudly)
Child Abuse! Helllp! Police!
ANOTHER ANGLE - 16
as Mrs. Cranston peers nosily over the fence. Simon smiles & waves.
SIMON
Everything's just dandy, Mrs. Cranston. Just a little misunderstanding . . .
(to Todd pointedly)
. . . Right, young man? Or do you really want her to call the authorities?
ALEX (panting, disheveled)
She's got my vote!
SIMON
Now, now, Alex. No damage was done.
(more to Todd)
Frankly, I'd prefer discussing it over a glass of milk. What do you say?
TODD (sullenly)
Yeah, sure . . . like I got a choice.
Alex looks at Simon as Simon turns the boy around & gives him a gentle shove back in the direction of Simon's garage.
ALEX
Simon, the kid broke into your car!
SIMON (to Todd)
What's your name lad?
TODD
What's it to you, 'Shorty'?
SIMON (to Alex, chuckling)
Well, we know one thing. The boy certainly knows up from down.
Back to Top
ANGLE ON CAR - 17
unobtrusive, parked in the shade in the distance.
INT. CAR - 18
Dekker, behind the wheel, sits with Hansen watching Simon guide Todd through his back gate with Alex trailing.
HANSEN (impressed)
He did it! McKay's taking him in!
DEKKER
McKay's a sucker for the hearts & flowers stuff. It's all in his profile.
HANSEN
Thank goodness. Trying to get past that audio-electronic security system of his . . . that could've been a major problem.
EXT. SIMON'S BACKYARD - 19
Alex pauses as Simon holds the gate open for Todd who moves on ahead.
ALEX
Simon, you're a pushover. Any stray on the block, you've got to take it in.
SIMON
Thank you, Alex. I'm glad you keep reminding me of that.
ALEX
Simon, this kid needs special handling. He's not some kind of . . . toy you can take home & fix.
SIMON
You're right. He's much more than that, Alex. He's a human being.
TODD (chiming in)
Yeah. Right!
SIMON (sternly)
As for you, young man, you'll speak when spoken to . . . er . . . er . . .
(fishing)
. . . What's you say your name was?
TODD
I didn't
(begrudgingly)
Aghh! Go ahead & call me Todd.
SIMON
Todd it is!
Simon reaches the backdoor & holds it open for Todd, then winks at Alex as Todd exits into the house. At least it's a start.
Back to Top
INT. KITCHEN - DAY - 20
TIGHT ON Todd chasing a huge mouthful of a huge sandwich with a long swig of milk. PULL BACK TO INCLUDE:
SIMON - 21
seated with him at the breakfast table as Alex pours himself a cup of coffee from a coffee maker in the b.g. (background) (PRODUCTION NOTE: A VARIETY OF TOYS & ELECTRICAL DEVICES IN VARIOUS STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT ARE SCATTERED ABOUT THE KITCHEN AREA IN INFORMAL REPOSE IN KEEPING WITH SIMON'S TENDENCY TO CLUTTER THE WORLD AROUND HIM.)
SIMON
Now then, Todd. The truth. Why did you try to steal my car stereo?
TODD
Whatta you care? You won't believe me, anyway.
SIMON
Try me.
TODD
I was hungry, okay? So I was gonna hock it & buy some food.
Todd glares hostilely, an attitude that will prevail throughout. Alex joins them, probing for specific information.
ALEX
You have a last name, Todd?
TODD
I forgot.
ALEX
Hey, look. We're trying to help you out. But you've got to help us.
SIMON
Like telling us where you live.
TODD
That's easy. Most of the time a deserted tenement down on Fourth Street -- once in a while, if I'm lookin' for company an all-night movie . . .
SIMON
What about your parents?
TODD
They're dead. Okay?!
ANOTHER ANGLE - INCLUDING TILLIE - 22
steaming INTO VIEW bearing a plate of fresh muffins.
TILLIE
Oh, let the boy eat. Can't you see he's starved half to death!
(serving muffins)
Here you go Todd. Fresh whole wheat muffins!
Todd grabs for the muffins with both hands, stuffing one in his mouth.
TODD (mouth full)
Mumg nedffmorpff milsfer . . .
TILLIE
Right. More milk coming up!
ALEX
You understood that?
TILLIE
After all those years cookin' aboard ship? Stuffed mouth's my second language!
Tillie EXITS. Todd checks out the clutter of toys & equipment & does a little probing of his own.
TODD
So what do you guys do? Run a Fix-it shop?
SIMON
I'm an inventor. Toys, mostly.
TODD
No bull? You mean here? In the house?
SIMON
My workshop's right downstairs.
TODD
Man, would I love to see that.
SIMON
Well then, when you're finished eating, Tillie will show you the way. Won't you, Tillie?
FAVORING TILLIE - 23
She nods as Simon & Alex EXIT, then turns to open the REFRIGERATOR, automatically cueing a computerized voice.
REFRIGERATOR
Good evening. We need more orange juice.
Fascinated, Todd approaches as he polishes off one last muffin. Tillie fills her glass with milk.
TODD
You gotta be kiddin' me. A talking refrigerator?
TILLIE
Yep. I shoulda bit my tongue that rainy afternoon I sounded off to Simon about all the trips I had to make to the market!
TODD
Weird . . .
TILLIE
Listen up, boy. You just count your blessin's that little man's takin' such a shine to you.
(clearing table)
More milk?
TODD
Naaa.
TILLIE
Good. Then you can help with the washin' up. You can dry.
Tillie crosses to the sink & tosses Todd a dish towel. Todd stares at it nonplussed.
TODD
Me? Dryin' dishes? No way!
TILLIE
Tough tomatoes! Around here, you eat, you work!
TODD (manipulatively)
Uh -- listen, how about I take out the garbage instead. That's work.
TILLIE
Well . . . okay. Just make sure you haul that skinny bag o' bones back here after I'm done cleaning up. Deal?
TODD
You got it.
Todd smiles. Tillie smiles back & turns away to clear his dish. Todd gives her a silent Bronx Cheer behind her back.
Back to Top
INT. SIMON'S WORKSHOP - DAY - 24
The workshop is filled with a Pandora's Box of fascinating toys in various stages of completion. At the moment, Simon is making an adjustment on a mound of hinged shoe-brushes surrounding an opening the size of the human foot. He motions to Alex who stands behind the workbench.
SIMON
Three-quarter inch wrench . . .
ALEX (hands him tool)
Simon, I'm not questioning your good intentions. They're terrific as usual --
SIMON
Alex, the boy's obviously a runaway. I can't just dump him back on the streets. I couldn't live with myself.
ALEX
I couldn't either. That's what Juvenile Hall is all about.
SIMON
Poor Alex. Seeing everything in black & white when there are a hundred shades in every rainbow.
ALEX (the pragmatist)
What the devil does a rainbow --
SIMON (finger to lips)
Shhhh!
Todd descends the stairs & joins them, belligerent as ever.
TODD
You guys don't have to whisper. You want me to split, just say so.
SIMON
Matter of fact, it's just the opposite. Alex & I agree you can stay as long as you wish. What do you say?
Todd looks at Alex suspiciously. Alex concurs with a shrug.
ALEX
A deserted building's no place for any kid.
TODD
Sure. Why not? I got nuthin' better to do.
SIMON
All right!
Alex forces a smile & EXITS. Todd looks around, underwhelmed by what he sees. He points to the brush contraption.
TODD
What's that?
SIMON
This? I call it my 'Quick-Soiler.' Here. Take off your right sneaker & slip this on.
Simon hands Todd a brand new white sneaker which he slips on as Simon places the Quick-Soiler on the floor.
TODD
Yeah . . . now what?
SIMON (motioning)
Go ahead. Put your foot in that opening . . . that's it. Now watch.
Simon flips a switch, the brushes swirl around Todd's new sneaker with a happy HUM, then stops. Todd takes his foot out & looks down at the sneaker.
INSERT SHOT - SNEAKER - 25
now dirty & scuffed to perfection, almost matching his other old, worn sneaker.
BACK TO SIMON & TODD - 26
Simon beams triumphantly.
SIMON
Da-dummmm!!! Presto! A brand new sneaker dirtied to perfection the day you buy it!
(as Todd stares)
No?
TODD
Dumb!
Todd tosses the experimental sneaker aside & slips his old one back on. Undaunted Simon presses on in hopes of reaching him.
SIMON
Well . . . silly, maybe. But not dumb. Dumb means silent & I'm certainly not that. Neither are you. I'll bet you have a lot to say given the proper time & place . . .
Todd ignores Simon, turning away instead to check out the workshop, & wander -- not so accidentally -- in the direction of Simon's secret workshop whose entrance is graced by a prominently lit key pad security device.
FAVORING TODD - 27
He picks up a futuristic frisbee & inspects it.
TODD
More junk. You got anything good around here?
Simon gently takes the frisbee from Todd, flips a self-contained switch & SWISH! The frisbee, glowing in an ethereal light, takes off, circles the room & returns to Simon's upraised finger where it spins to a stop. Simon puts it down & confronts Todd.
SIMON
Look, son, the sooner you take that 200-pound-chip off your shoulder & relax the better.
Todd turns away & preoccupies himself with another toy. Simon follows.
SIMON
Todd, I know there's a solid citizen in there somewhere. I can feel it.
Again, Todd averts his eyes elsewhere. Not to be denied, Simon circles the boy & confronts him.
SIMON
Todd, look at me. Sooner or later you've got to trust somebody. Why not now?
This seems to reach Todd. He looks at Simon suspiciously.
TODD
You trust me?
SIMON
Of course I do. It's like eating peanuts. Once you start trusting people you can't stop.
TODD
Okay, prove it.
(points off)
What's inside there?
Todd crosses to Simon's secret workshop & indicates.
SIMON (taken aback)
In there? My secret workshop?
TODD
Yeah. Open the door. I wanna look around.
SIMON
Todd, that's a very special place. Nobody goes in there --
TODD
You see? You don't trust me! You're just like all the others! You're all full of --
SIMON (quickly concedes)
All right, all right! I'll be glad to show you around. You can even punch in the code.
TODD
You probably change it every day.
SIMON
Close. Every two years.
(indicating)
Just press four-double six-two on the key pad.
Todd punches in the numbers to the SOUND of MUSICAL BEEPS & the door opens REVEALING Simon's secret workshop within.
INT. SECRET WORKSHOP - 28
Todd ENTERS with Simon & looks around, seemingly in awe at the sight of several of Simon's most special projects.
TODD
Not bad.
His hands trail over a space-age bicycle (or whatever).
TODD
Bet you can make some big bucks from all this stuff.
SIMON
Once in a blue moon. But that's the lot of an inventor. Most of the fun is in the doing.
TODD
You know what you could make a fortune at? Model planes & boats, stuff like that.
SIMON
I see. A born promoter, are you?
TODD
I'm twelve right. I should know what kids like, right?
(innocently)
Ever do any radio-controlled stuff?
SIMON
Right behind you. Take that plastic cover off . . .
ANOTHER ANGLE - 29
FAVORING a large, plastic-covered object on a pedestal in the f.g. Todd turns & takes off the cover REVEALING a breathlessly modern model jet, it's gold fuselage gleaming in the light. Todd WHISTLES in awe.
SIMON
Meet the 'Golden Fleece' . . . built to soar on the wings of progress like it's namesake soared the heavens of Greek mythology.
TODD
Wow! That's 'rad'! A jet, right?
(on Simon's nod)
Man, would I love to fly that thing.
SIMON
Well, good. It just so happens I'm putting it through it's final paces tomorrow & I could use a good co-pilot.
TODD
You kiddin' me?
Simon spits on his hand & offers it to Todd.
SIMON
Spit & a handshake says I'm not!
Taken aback, Todd hesitantly shakes Simon's hand.
SIMON
Now then, I've got to make a few quick adjustments on the 'Quick-Soiler.' When you're finished in here, lock it up. You know the code.
Simon & Todd's eyes meet. Simon knows despite all of Todd's bravado, he's at least established a beachhead.
Back to Top
INT. KITCHEN - NIGHT - 30
Tillie makes a final wipe of the spic & span counters as Alex ENTERS.
ALEX
Tillie, I put my coffee cup down somewhere. You happen to see it?
TILLIE
Nope. But feel free to ask the Refrigerator.
Alex laughs as Todd ENTERS, defensive & demanding as ever.
TODD
Okay, Tillie. Where's the garbage?
TILLIE
Full speed astern (editing notation: "?") there, boy! You want results, you talk to me, not at me!
TODD
Okay, okay. I'd like to take out the garbage . . .
(sarcastically)
. . . Ma'am.
TILLIE (jerks head)
In the pail. By the backdoor.
Todd EXITS. Tillie shakes her head as Alex takes a clean mug & pours himself another cup of coffee.
TILLIE
Simon's got a tiger by the toe with that 'un!
ALEX
Yeah, but try telling Simon that. He forgets he's not a social worker. You have to know what you're doing to figure out a kid like that.
Suddenly a large, motorized plastic ear on wheels WHIRRS across the kitchen floor, accompanied by a BOOMING:
SIMON'S VOICE
I heard that remark!
Simon ENTERS, removing an earpiece & setting it on the counter with a small remote-controller.
SIMON
Where's Todd? He's really into remote controls. But please, don't let me interrupt . . .
TILLIE
And set some kind of precedent around here? Don't be silly!
ALEX
Simon, you know how I feel. We are not professionals. We could be doing Todd a lot of harm.
SIMON
But I'm making progress! Look, Alex. The boy's hardly an incorrigible. He's just a little confused . . . and very, very angry. All we have to do is help him sort things out.
TILLIE
I'm sure game. Compared to what I've had to deal with that kid's mean streak is about as wide as an eel's shirt collar!
SIMON
Alex?
ALEX
Maybe I'm just jealous I didn't have somebody like you to straighten me out when I was a kid.
(grins)
Okay. I'll give it a shot.
Back to Top
EXT. GARAGE - NIGHT - 31
Todd dumps the trash & looks around expectantly. Hansen & Dekker step out of the shadows.
DEKKER
Well?
TODD (the braggart)
No sweat. The guy was an easy mark!
HANSEN
What about the plane? Did you see it.
TODD
Naturally.
DEKKER
What about getting it out?
TODD
No problem. McKay's even invited me to stay over. I can rip it off any time you want.
HANSEN
Tomorrow night, Todd. The plane & the controls tomorrow night.
TODD (curiously)
Then whatta you gonna do with it?
DEKKER
Hey. Remember our deal, kid. No questions.
HANSEN
Just get us the plane & we'll have your money waiting.
Dekker & Hansen turn & EXIT into the night. Todd watches them go then dismisses any second thoughts with a wave of the hand.
TODD
Ah, big deal!
FADE OUT
Back to Top
END OF ACT ONE
*********************************************************
ACT TWO
FADE IN
SUBJECTIVE AERIAL P.O.V. - OPEN FIELD - DAY - 32
We SEEM TO BE ON a wild roller coaster ride, zooming along the ground, then in & out of bordering trees, then zooming high into the sky, faltering into a Hammerhead Stall, then nosing downward in a power dive. We PULL BACK TO:
EXT. LARGE MEADOW - DAY - 33
Simon studies a small monitor on which the AERIAL SHOT is registering. Beside Simon, an intense Todd handles the radio controls attached to the monitor, obviously flying the model while watching the screen. Behind them, Alex looks on apprehensively not far from the parked Bronco.
TODD
Oh yeah! Yeeeaaaah!
SIMON
Good, Todd. Now ease off the throttle just a hair . . . easy . . . that's it.
BINOCULAR MATTE - MODEL PLANE - DAY - 34
following the flight of the model plane.
HANSEN'S VOICE (coaxing, to self)
Good . . . now hit the trim . . .
ANGLE ON WOODS - DAY - 35
Hansen drops the binoculars as she & Dekker watch from a secluded grove of trees. Their van is parked nearby.
HANSEN (excitedly)
Look at the way it handles.
DEKKER
It's gonna work out, eh?
HANSEN
Like a charm! McKay's design is even more sophisticated than the one he submitted with his patent application.
DEKKER
You really know how to fly one of those things, huh?
HANSEN
Look, Dekker. If it's got wings, I fly it. That's why I'm here.
DEKKER
Hey, easy. Just makin' conversation.
HANSEN
Well don't. After we do our number on Flight 524, I never met you before in my life.
Dekker gives Hansen a muttering look as the model plane SCREAMS past, it's engine WHINING like a banshee.
TIGHT ON ALEX - 36
shielding his eyes as he looks upward in alarm.
ALEX
Watch out!
SUBJECTIVE AERIAL P.O.V. SHOT - 37
as the plane heads straight for a tree.
ANGLE ON SIMON & TODD - 38
The excitement building in Simon's voice as he barks a saving command:
SIMON
Left aileron! No! That's right! I want left!
INSERT SHOT - MODEL PLANE - 39
zigzagging & narrowly avoiding a large tree trunk.
BACK TO TODD, SIMON & ALEX - 40
TODD
Oh wow! It's like being up there myself.
SIMON
That's the whole point of the miniature TV camera in the cockpit. So all of us armchair pilots can let our fantasies soar up into the clouds!
ALEX
And down into a tree!
SIMON (chuckling)
I think Alex has had enough thrills for the day. Let's bring her in for a landing.
TODD
Here. You take it.
Todd tries to hand the controls to Simon who waves them off.
SIMON
Why? You're doing just fine.
TODD
Flying. Not landing! Hey c'mon, Simon!
ALEX (nervously)
Uh -- Simon -- I think Todd has a point.
SIMON
Nope. Sorry. A deal's a deal. I shook on it.
TIGHT ON TODD - 41
A nervous wreck as he works the controls.
ON THE MODEL PLANE - 42
wobbling closer & closer to the ground at high speed.
ON SIMON & ALEX - 43
SIMON
That's right. Throttle back. Now lower the landing gear.
ON THE MODEL PLANE - 44
as the landing gear lowers.
P.O.V. AERIAL SHOT - 45
OF the ground rising up & the three figures of Simon, Alex & Todd looming ever larger.
TODD'S VOICE
The ground's coming up too fast.
BACK TO SCENE - 46
Tension oozes from every pore as Todd works the controls. In contrast, Simon's voice takes on a soothing quality.
SIMON
Easy . . . flaps down . . . good . . . now throttle all the way down . . .
ON THE MODEL PLANE - 47
bouncing into a rough but safe landing.
BACK TO SIMON, ALEX & TODD - 48
reacting with both joy & relief.
TODD (proudly)
I did it!
SIMON
I told you you could do it. Right, Alex?
ALEX
Yep. Nice job, Todd-o!
Alex moves out to collect the model plane. Todd takes a deep breath, then turns to Simon who starts to pack it in.
TODD
Why'd you let me do that? I coulda wrecked that thing.
SIMON
You didn't, did you?
TODD
Yeah, but you didn't know that.
SIMON
Nice feeling to be trusted by somebody, isn't it?
Simon picks up the Flight Box & starts toward the Bronco, knowing the point has hit close to home.
ON TODD - 49
crossing toward the Bronco, he catches sight of Dekker & Hansen's van bouncing off on a distant access road. He swallows nervously & turns away to hide the sinking sensation that sweeps over him.
ON ALEX - 50
noticing Todd's expression as he opens the Bronco's tailgate REVEALING various sections of an older, blue-epoxied, somewhat battered prototype of the "Golden Fleece" among other assorted parts, tools, transmitters, etc.
ALEX
You okay, kid?
TODD (forcing smile)
Couldn't be better.
(points to blue plane to change subject)
Hey! What's that old plane?
SIMON (approaching)
That, my lad, is the 'Blue Streak.' Precursor of the golden Fleece.
(pointedly at Alex)
As Alex can tell you, I throw away very little . . .
Back to Top
EXT. SIMON'S HOUSE - NIGHT (STOCK) - 51
ESTABLISHING.
INT. SIMON'S DEN - NIGHT - 52
TIGHT ON the TV SET where a local ANCHORWOMAN extols the evening news:
ANCHORWOMAN
. . . Authorities say flood waters are expected to recede by Friday. Meanwhile, on the international scene, world attention is focused on the American sponsored San Paolo Peace Initiative beginning tomorrow at the luxurious Palace Regency Hotel . . .
As a "San Paolo Peace Conference" logo is supered behind the Anchorwoman, CAMERA PULLS BACK TO REVEAL:
ALEX & SIMON - 53
Alex settles into an easy chair to watch TV as Simon ponders his library shelves & selects a research book.
ANCHORWOMAN
For a direct report from International Airport where security measures are being taken to insure the safe arrival of the 15-nation peach delegation when Condor Flight 524 touches down at noon tomorrow, we go to reporter Bill Middleton . . .
ANOTHER ANGLE - TODD - 54
peeking in as Alex uses a remote to switch channels to a baseball game. Seeing both men are preoccupied, he tiptoes across the back of the den toward the kitchen . . . only to have both Simon & Alex turn his way. He wiggles his fingers in guilt-ridden recognition.
TODD
Hi, Alex . . . Simon . . . uhm . . . don't let me interrupt anything . . .
Todd continues on & EXITS. Simon looks at Alex.
SIMON
Will wonders never cease, eh Alex?
INT. KITCHEN - NIGHT - 55
Dinner is cooking & the table is set for four. Todd ENTERS, checks to see that Tillie is o.s., then quickly stuffs two apples from a fruit bowl into each pants pocket, then moves stealthily toward the backdoor. As he does, Tillie ENTERS.
TODD
Hi, Tillie.
TILLIE
Where do you think you're going?
TODD
Me? Oh. Into town. You know, see a couple of buddies . . .
TILLIE
What about dinner?
TODD
I ain't hungry.
Tillie plucks an apple from each pocket & holds them up.
TILLIE
What's this? Ballast? So you don't blow away?
Tillie tosses the apples back to him, opens the oven door, & proceeds to baste a glorious roast turkey.
TODD (wavering)
Well . . . maybe I am hungry.
TILLIE
That's better. Now take this garbage out.
Tillie closes the oven & reaches for a plastic bag (already tied off) that bulges from a plastic trash can.
TODD (visibly uptight)
Do I have to?
(on Tillie's look)
Okay, okay!
Todd EXITS with the garbage leaving Tillie looking after him.
Back to Top
EXT. BACK ALLEY - NIGHT - 56
Dekker & Hansen wait in the shadows. Visibly impatient, Hansen checks her watch.
HANSEN
Where is he? He promised he'd be here.
DEKKER
Good question.
HANSEN
I just hope you didn't make a mistake, using that kid.
DEKKER
Right! Instead of playing it cool, we should've blasted our way in & put every cop in town on our tail.
HANSEN
What if the kid blows it, then what?
DEKKER (flaring)
Hey! You stick to the technical stuff, I'll handle the arrangements, okay?!
EXT. GARAGE AREA - NIGHT - 57
Todd carries a trash bag around the back of the garage. He looks around cautiously, then breathes a sigh of relief.
SMASH CUT TO:
A HAND - 58
reaching out of the darkness & grabbing him & muffling his instinctive CRY of surprise. PULL BACK TO REVEAL:
DEKKER - 59
who is quickly joined by Hansen.
DEKKER
Shhhh!
TODD
Well you scared me!
HANSEN
We're sorry about that, Todd. But we do have a little business to conduct.
DEKKER
You're supposed to turn over that plane tonight, remember?
TODD
Yeah, but I can't. They're watching me like a hawk. I need more time.
HANSEN (to Dekker)
He's stalling.
TODD
No I'm not. It's just . . . just not as easy as I thought it'd be.
HANSEN
Todd, we have to have it tonight!
TODD
What if I can't get it?
DEKKER
Then we'll have to go in & get it any way we can . . .
Dekker pulls back his jacket REVEALING the glint of a sawed-off shotgun in an under-the-shoulder holster.
HANSEN
That's why we hired you. To make sure nobody'd get hurt.
TODD (in a sweat)
You'd kill Simon? A-And Tillie & Alex?
DEKKER
Whatever it takes. Now . . . you want to earn your money or not?
As Todd twists in the wind, trapped on the horns of a dilemma from which there is seemingly no escape we:
DISSOLVE TO:
THE BEAM OF A FLASHLIGHT - 60
moving across a floor past a potpourri of toys.
INT. SIMON'S WORKSHOP - 61
TIGHT ON a foot accidentally kicking a toy POLICE CAR activating its FLASHING LIGHTS & sending it careening across the floor zigzagging in SKIDDING TURNS, its tires SHRIEKING via a self-contained SOUND SYSTEM.
TIGHT ON TODD'S FACE - 62
frozen in fear as the toy POLICE CAR hits the far wall & goes silent. Todd takes a deep breath & shines his flashlight on:
SECRET WORKSHOP DOOR - 63
Todd approaches the glowing key pad & taps out the code. The door slides open.
INT. SECRET WORKSHOP - NIGHT - 64
The flashlight beam falls on the Golden Fleece model.
TIGHT ON TODD - 65
summoning all his strength to do what he has to do.
TIGHT ON THE GOLDEN FLEECE MODEL - 66
being loaded gingerly into the bed of the van. PULL BACK TO DISCOVER:
EXT. ALLEYWAY - VAN - NIGHT - 67
Where Hansen lovingly secures it while Dekker peels $100.00 from a roll of bills & hands it to Todd.
DEKKER
Here you go kid. Payment on delivery.
TODD (hating it, but going with it)
Yeah. Thanks. It's been a pleasure.
DEKKER
Now get lost. Forget you ever saw us. Unless you want to see someone get hurt.
TODD
Hey, man. I'm history!
Todd waves, hops a fence & disappears into the night. Dekker moves to the back of the van where he helps Hansen close the doors, smiling just a bit smugly as he does.
DEKKER
Well! I took care of my end. Now it's your turn.
Hansen caresses the Gold Fleece lovingly.
HANSEN
Don't worry. You get me to the launching site on time, this little sweetheart is going to give Flight 524 the surprise of its life.
DEKKER
You mean 'death,' don't you?
Pleased at his little play on words, Dekker punctuates his ominous remark by SLAMMING the two rear doors shut as we:
FADE OUT
Back to Top
END OF ACT TWO
******************************************************
ACT THREE
FADE IN
INT. SECRET WORKSHOP - DAY - 68
The next morning. Simon stares at the empty pedestal that once housed the Golden Fleece model, trying to understand. Alex ENTERS & puts a gentle hand on Simon's shoulder.
ALEX
Simon, I'm sorry. The kid fooled me, too. I thought he was coming around.
SIMON
He was.
(a helpless shrug)
There's no rhyme or reason, Alex . . . none at all.
ALEX
Maybe you should chalk it off to human nature. Some people are going to self-destruct no matter what.
Simon SIGHS & heads back out to his workshop area.
SIMON
Perhaps. But not Todd. He's a good kid.
EXT. WORKSHOP - DAY - 69
Alex follows Simon who pauses to pick up the errant toy police car & ponder it.
ALEX
You can still say that? After he takes off with one of your most priceless prototypes?
SIMON
Mere fiberglass & epoxy, Alex. That's a far cry from heart & soul . . .
ALEX
Anything besides the Golden Fleece?
SIMON
I suppose I should check, eh?
ALEX
I think so, Simon.
FAVORING CLOSET DOOR - 70
as Simon approaches, making a quick mental inventory of all the workshop items in full view. Reaching the door he opens it & is virtually inundated by an unending cascade of toy parts, trolls, stuffed animals, mannequin components, pots, pans, you name it -- all with an accompanying cacophony of NOISE. Each time we think the outpouring is over, another half-dozen items fall out until -- at the very end -- we end up with the TINKLE of a tiny little bell.
TIGHT ON SIMON - 71
Knee-deep in the stuff surveying the mess with a blase eye.
SIMON
Nope. Everything's here. Like I thought.
(with new resolve)
Alex, we've got to find Todd! That's all there is to it!
Simon marches out of the pile of toys & heads for the stairs. Alex follows, totally confused.
ALEX
Simon, why?
Simon pauses on the stairs & looks Alex in the eye.
SIMON
Because I care! Because he could be in trouble. Because perhaps he was forced to steal the airplane against his will. Because I hate standing on stairways! Now are you with me or not?
Simon turns & trudges on up the stairs. Alex shrugs in resignation & follows.
ALEX
Okay. That's what I'm paid for, right? To be with you.
Back to Top
INT. KITCHEN - 72
Tillie is crossing toward the refrigerator with a bowl of fruit when the cellar door bursts open & Simon appears with Alex in tow.
TILLIE
What now, & where are you two off to in such a hurry?
SIMON
To find Todd.
TILLIE
An' how in Blue Hades you plan to do that?
SIMON
You forget, Tillie, the boy all but gave us his address.
TILLIE
The deserted tenement?
ALEX
You know what they say, Tillie. Home is where the heart is!
Simon EXITS. Alex shrugs Tillie's way, indicating he's got no choice, then is gone, the door shutting behind him.
TILLIE (calling after them)
Good luck!
She opens the Refrigerator cueing the computerized voice:
REFRIGERATOR
Good morning. We are out of eggs.
TILLIE
Oh, stick it in your ice-maker! Can't you see we've got more important things to worry about?
Tillie closes the door & sits down at the kitchen table trying to fathom this new development.
Back to Top
EXT. BURNED-OUT TENEMENT - ESTABLISHING - DAY - 73
A deserted, graffiti-scarred building devoid of the remotest suggestion of human life.
The CAMERA MOVES LATERALLY PAST fallen beams & masonry & CATCHES UP WITH Simon & Alex, picking their way into the doorless lobby. Alex checks out the situation & motions for Simon to follow.
INT. TENEMENT - 74
Dark, dank, foreboding. Simon shivers.
SIMON
Great place to hang out. If you're a rat!
EXT. DESERTED HALLWAY - 75
Alex leads the way, then suddenly hears something. He inches ahead to a doorway & steps inside.
INT. EMPTY APARTMENT - DAY - 76
Moldering in the dust. Suddenly we SEE the blur of a 2x4 DESCENDING in the f.g. as Alex steps through the door frame. Instinctively, Alex parries the blow & grabs the 2x4 in a practiced karate move, then steps toward his assailant disarming him with a twist of the arm.
ON ALEX - 77
face-to-face with Todd who continues to kick & flail.
ALEX
Well, well, well. Look what the cat's dragged in, Simon.
TODD
Get outta here! Beat it! Leave me alone!
ALEX
What'd you do it for, Todd?
TODD (fighting tears)
Because they paid me, okay? One hundred bucks. No questions asked!
SIMON
Who did?
TODD
Hey, I'm sorry. I guess I shoulda asked for identification, huh?!
Emotionally distraught, Todd reaches in his pocket & flings a wad of bills at Simon.
TODD
Here! Take it. I don't want it.
ALEX
Don't tell me your conscience is bothering you?
TODD (to Simon, tearfully)
Simon, I didn't have any choice! If I didn't steal the plane, they were going to kill you.
(to Alex)
And you & Tillie if you got in the way!
FAVORING SIMON - 78
spirits soaring as he comforts Todd.
SIMON
I knew it! Todd, it's going to be okay.
TODD
It's not okay! You trusted me & I stole your plane!
SIMON
To protect me. And Alex & Tillie as well. What more could anyone ask?!
TODD
You're not gonna call the cops?
He looks at Alex. Alex reaches out & touches Todd's head.
ALEX
Oh, we'll call them, all right. Once we find out who put you through all this . . . & why.
Simon puts his arm around Todd & guides him out into the hall. Todd smiles through his tears, the monkey off his back at last.
Back to Top
EXT. TENEMENT - 79
Simon, Alex, & Todd approach the parked Bronco, Alex conducting a gentle interrogation as he & Simon try to put the pieces of the puzzle together.
ALEX
This couple in the blue van . . . any idea where they lived, who their friends were . . . where they bought their gas . . . their groceries?
TODD
Nope. I didn't ask nuthin', they didn't tell me nuthin' . . .
SIMON
Where'd you meet them?
TODD
They were lookin' at this old warehouse my & my friends mess around in . . . like they were thinking of renting it. I charged 'em ten bucks to show 'em around.
ALEX
Old warehouse, eh?
(to Simon)
It's a start.
They climb in the Bronco with Alex behind the wheel & Todd wedged in the middle. Alex cranks it up with a ROAR & takes off.
EXT. CITY STREETS - BRONCO DRIVE-BY - ESTABLISHING - DAY (STOCK) - 80
The Bronco in an industrial area.
INT. BRONCO - DAY - 81
Simon looks at Todd, gives him a big smile.
SIMON
You okay? Now that you & I 'have it on' . . . or whatever it is kids are saying these days.
TODD
Yeah. For sure.
SIMON
So we can talk, right?
TODD
About what?
SIMON
About everything. Like your parents . . .
(on Todd's surprise)
. . . They're not really dead, are they?
Todd stares out the window, then slowly shakes his head.
TODD
Naaa. But they might as well be.
ALEX
Hey, c'mon. How can you say a thing like that?
TODD
Are you kiddin'? They're so busy screamin' an' yellin' at each other they don't even know I exist.
SIMON
Is that why you ran away?
TODD
Wouldn't you? If you were nuthin' but a . . . a doormat!
ALEX
Listen, I've been there. It was either a doormat or a face on a milk carton. So I split.
TODD
What happened?
ALEX
I got their attention. Like I guess I always wanted. After that . . .
(shrugs)
. . . It wasn't perfect, but for the first time it was home.
Todd looks at Alex & sees him in a whole new light. As for Simon, he's learned yet another dimension to Alex. Then, Todd points off excitedly.
TODD
Over there! That's it!
ON BRONCO - 82
pulling to a stop at the front gate which is padlocked & behind which a ferocious DOBERMAN GROWLS at them. Alex gets out & surveys the chain link fence topped by barbed wire that surrounds the entire facility as Simon & Todd join him.
SIMON
You sure this is the place?
TODD
Positive.
ALEX (eyeing the dog)
Too bad.
TODD
Beats me where he came from.
Simon approaches the gate slowly, his hand extended.
SIMON
Nice doggie . . .
ALEX
Easy, Simon, not too close.
SIMON
Alex, please . . . you know I have a way with animals.
Simon invites a friendly sniff. Instead, the Doberman makes a ferocious, SNARLING lunge at the fence that sends Simon back-pedaling.
SIMON
On second thought, there are exceptions to every rule.
He retreats to the Bronco & pulls out his travel bag from among the collection spilling into the rear seat.
SIMON
I'll just have to take sterner measures, that's all.
Simon extracts a small, ultra-cute mechanical dog from his bag & begins to wind it up.
Back to Top
INT. WAREHOUSE - TIGHT ON THE GOLDEN FLEECE - DAY - 83
Glistening under fluorescent lights. CAMERA PANS ITS length FROM TAIL TO cockpit where we DISCOVER Hansen's hands gently molding plastic explosives to the shape of the open cockpit area from which she has removed the bubble canopy & the little plastic pilot.
ANGLE ON WORKBENCH - DEKKER & HANSEN - 84
The workbench is set up in a corner of the ground floor of a huge warehouse used as a storage facility for machinery parts which loom all around. Above their heads is a steel catwalk while at the near end a ponderous antique freight elevator framed by protective wire mesh & nothing more. Behind the workbench, near a huge door, we SEE the van.
Dekker looks on approvingly as Hansen pushes two clips into the plastic & runs fine wires back to the magnitos located in the belly of the fuselage.
HANSEN
All those years McKay worked for the Pentagon . . . it looks like he can't get it out of his system.
(indicating)
Look. Not a single metal part. Impossible to pick up on radar.
TIGHT ON MECHANICAL DOG - 85
waddling toward the gate making tiny little "YIP! YIP!" SOUNDS as the Doberman continues to GROWL & claw at the gate without letup in the b.g.
ON ALEX & TODD - 86
looking on in disbelief.
ALEX
That's 'sterner measures?!'
Simon puts his finger to his lips & points. Watch.
ANGLE ON DOBERMAN - 87
sniffing the tiny toy doggie as it approaches him. Suddenly the "yip-yipping" stops. A BEAT & the toy dog opens its mouth & lets loose with a GIGANTIC GROWL measuring a good 500 decibels. Terrified, the Doberman turns tail & runs away, YELPING in terror as the toy dog continues to ROAR.
INT. WAREHOUSE - WORKBENCH AREA - DAY - 88
Dekker reacts to the distant OVERLAPPING ROAR which can be HEARD county-wide.
DEKKER
What's that?
HANSEN
Better take a look.
Dekker reaches for a pistol & moves off.
EXT. WAREHOUSE - FRONT GATE - TIGHT ON TOY DOG - DAY - 89
Waddling back under the fence where Simon retrieves it. WIDEN TO INCLUDE Alex approaching the fence & studying the heavy duty padlock on the gate. He reaches into his breast pocket & withdraws a slim leather case which, when unrolled, REVEALS several delicate lock-picking tools. Selecting one, he skillfully snaps the padlock open.
TODD
Hey, neat. Where'd you learn to do that?
SIMON
It's a long story . . .
ALEX
Even longer than the doormat story.
(to Todd)
You better stay here.
TODD
No way. I got you guys into this. Besides, I know my way around.
Alex looks at Simon who shrugs as he stuffs the toy dog back in his bag & hefts it over his shoulder. The boy does have a point. Alex swings the gate open & Todd leads them toward a side entrance in the near distance.
ANGLE ON SLIDING DOOR - 90
rolling open a crack, enough for Dekker to squeeze through, pistol drawn.
ANGLE ON GATE - 91
slightly ajar, the padlock dangling as Dekker approaches. He studies the lock, makes a quick scan of the area, then turns & hurries back toward the warehouse.
INT. WAREHOUSE - WORKSHOP AREA - DAY - 92
Hansen tests a switch now carefully inserted on top of the wiring & a red arming light flashes on & off. Satisfied, Hansen deftly snaps the cockpit canopy & the piece of epoxied fuselage back into place as Dekker reappears.
DEKKER
I think we've got company. How are you doing?
HANSEN
All set.
DEKKER
Then let's get out of here.
Back to Top
INT. WAREHOUSE - CATWALK - DAY - 93
Todd motions to Alex & Simon. The three move silently along an overhead catwalk toward a distant glow produced by the workbench area lights.
ANGLE ON WORKBENCH AREA - 94
Hansen gingerly loads the deadly Golden Fleece inside the van.
BACK TO CATWALK - 95
Todd looks off & points off in an excited WHISPER:
TODD
That's her! That's one of 'em!
THEIR P.O.V. - LOOKING DOWN ON HANSEN - 96
gathering up tools & random bits of evidence.
BACK TO ALEX, SIMON & TODD - 97
Alex draws his gun, motions Simon & Todd back SOTTO:
ALEX
You two stay here. That's an order.
Alex starts to descend a steel gridwork of stairs above & behind the workbench area.
TIGHT ON SIMON & TODD - 98
watching Alex. Suddenly, a VOICE FROM BEHIND:
DEKKER
Couldn't keep your nose clean, eh, kid?
Simon & Todd whirl to see:
DEKKER BEHIND THEM - 99
holding a .44 magnum. Simon swallows, waves.
SIMON
Hi, there! Lovely day for a stroll . . .
ON ALEX - 100
whirling & leveling his gun, only to discover Dekker has a dead bead on Simon & Todd who stand in his line of fire.
DEKKER
Freeze! Or they both buy it! That's a smart fella. Now the gun . . . real easy like.
Alex slowly puts his gun down on the top step. Dekker motions Simon & Todd down the steps to join Alex.
DEKKER
Downstairs! Move!
He stoops to pick up Alex's weapon, then prods them down the steps to where Hansen stand, an Uzi at the ready.
ANGLE ON WORKBENCH AREA - 101
Hansen smiles in recognition of Simon, puts the Uzi aside.
HANSEN
Well! Simon McKay! What a surprise. I'm honored!
SIMON
I know you?
HANSEN
Hopefully not. But I know you. I'm one of your biggest fans.
SIMON
Funny I don't feel flattered . . .
ALEX
Look, I don't know what your game is, but I do know you've got something in that van that belongs to Mr. McKay.
HANSEN
I know. Isn't it beautiful!
Dekker prods them with his gun & motions them in the direction of the elevator shaft. (PRODUCTION NOTE: The elevator is currently up on the 3rd or 4th floor landing.)
DEKKER
Over there. By the elevator.
ANGLE ON THE ELEVATOR AREA - 102
Dekker grabs Todd by the scruff of the neck & herds him along with Simon & Alex to the brink of the shaft. To one side a mesh screen has been drawn back allowing direct access to the open shaft.
TODD
Whatta you gonna do with us?
DEKKER
You're with them, now, remember?
THEIR P.O.V. - ELEVATOR WELL - 103
a yawning abyss some twenty feet deep filled with debris & without any outlet.
BACK TO SCENE - 104
Dekker brandishes his weapon & motions with a cold smile.
DEKKER
Jump.
(to Todd)
You, too, big mouth!
There's no choice. The three leap together with all the bravado of Newman & Redford in "Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid."
ANGLE ON DEBRIS - ELEVATOR WELL - 105
Todd, Simon & Alex cannonball INTO VIEW & land safely, their fall cushioned by the soft mix of debris.
REVERSE ANGLE - SHOOTING DOWN PAST DEKKER - 106
as they look up to see Dekker changing gun clips.
SIMON
You wouldn't shoot . . .
DEKKER
Hey. Who needs a homicide investigation when an accident will do just fine!
Dekker punches the elevator button attached to the mesh screen. The ELEVATOR MOTOR SQUEALS into activity.
ON SIMON, ALEX & TODD - 107
looking upward.
THEIR P.O.V. - THE ELEVATOR - 108
lurching slowly downward from three floors above, its pedestal & dangling, stabilizing cable a sure bet to crush them should it reach the ground floor.
BACK TO SIMON, ALEX & TODD - 109
Todd turns to Simon, horrified as they all look upward.
TODD
Simon, what are we going to do?!
SIMON(helplessly)
And I thought I had an answer to everything.
FADE OUT
Back to Top
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
FADE IN
EXT. WAREHOUSE- DAY - 110
The van races out the open gate. CAMERA HOLDS ON the empty Bronco & the warehouse beyond.
ELEVATOR SHAFT - TODD, ALEX & SIMON'S P.O.V. - 111
as the elevator continues to descend. (PRODUCTION NOTE: As with ancient elevators, the lift cable runs through a large, exposed flywheel located beneath the elevator, or flush to the shaft wall. A stabilizing cable hangs from below.)
ON SIMON & ALEX - 112
Alex squints upward while Simon surveys the area, then quickly pulls two old bricks from the debris.
ALEX
If only we could jam that flywheel!
SIMON
Alex, give me your shoes. Quick.
ALEX
Simon --
SIMON
Unless you relish dying with your boots on!
Alex pulls off his shoes & hands them to Simon who has pulled the coiled rope from his jacket & is cutting off a four-foot length with a pocketknife.
SIMON (to Todd)
'Bolerderos'! A minor skill I picked up from an old friend of mine down in the Argentine Pampas!
Simon jams a brick in each shoe, then ties the ends of the rope to both shoes & begins to whirl the makeshift "Bolerderos" over his head.
Whooosh! Simon lets go of his homemade contraption in an upward arc.
INSERT SHOT - SPINNING FLYWHEEL - 113
As the Bolerderos wraps around the flywheel, the brick shoes effectively fouling the flywheel . . . & also shredding Alex's shoes in the process.
BACK TO SIMON, ALEX & TODD - 114
Looking upward. With a GRINDING SCHREECH, the elevator jolts to a halt in a shower of SPARKS several feet above the ground floor threshold. All breathe a SIGH of relief.
TODD (elated)
You did it!
ALEX
Nice shot.
SIMON
Nice footwork!
Alex picks up the rest of the coiled rope, grabs on to the stabilizer cable that has looped down into the well, & pulls himself hand-over-hand up to the narrow opening.
Back to Top
EXT. FREEWAY - VAN - 115
moving along at a good clip.
INT. VAN - 116
Hansen is intent on the driving as Dekker appears from the back & joins her, checking his watch.
DEKKER
Right on schedule.
Dekker reaches into the glove compartment & takes out a detailed map of the airport area.
INT. WAREHOUSE - DAY - 117
Todd looks on as Alex, in his stocking feet, pulls Simon over the threshold using Simon's rope.
ALEX
Think, Todd! You must have some idea why they stole Simon's plane!
SIMON
Other than it was important enough to kill the lot of us for . . .
TODD
I'd give anything if I could -- but I can't! I swear!
FAVORING ALEX - 118
He spots an empty plastic wrapper on the workbench & sniffs at a few stray crumbs of the plastic explosive. Also in evidence are several fragments of tape & wire.
ALEX
Hold it! I think we just got our first break.
(on Simon's look)
QF-9. The most potent plastic explosive there is. Only the real pros know about it.
(searching further)
And look at this. Tape . . . electrical wire . . .
SIMON
All the ingredients for a very deadly bomb.
TODD (remembering)
Wait a minute! Yeah, I remember one thing. After they paid me off & I hopped the fence, I heard them talking about a plane. Flight 'five' something . . .
SIMON (sparking)
Alex! On the telly last night! The San Paolo Peace Mission!
ALEX
Flight 524, wasn't it? Arriving at noon!
(checking watch)
That's less than forty-five minutes from now!
SIMON (horror-struck)
No, it couldn't be . . . could it? Terrorists?
TODD
They're gonna blow up a planeload of people with the Golden Fleece??!
ALEX
Armed with a payload of plastic explosive, it could be quite a weapon, couldn't it?
SIMON
Invincible. Far more accurate than a missile. And with remote controls, they can take as many cracks as they need.
ALEX
That's the answer. C'mon!
They turn & rush toward the nearest exit.
EXT. WAREHOUSE - FRONT GATE - DAY - 119
Alex, Simon & Todd rush toward the front gate.
ALEX
I've got to call Linden & have him alert security.
SIMON
Alex, once they get the Golden Fleece airborne, all the king's men & all the king's horses won't put Flight 524 back together again.
REVERSE ANGLE - SHOOTING PAST PHONE BOOTH - 120
of ancient vintage, standing dusty & unused just outside the gate several paces beyond the parked Bronco.
ALEX
Not if we can divert the flight to another airport.
He steps into the phone booth & picks up the receiver . . . & stares at the severed cord which dangles in the air. Alex bangs the phone down & rushes back to the Bronco.
TIGHT ON GAS STATION SIGN - 121
amid the SQUEAL of skidding tires, TILT DOWN TO:
EXT. GAS STATION SIGN - DAY - 122
As an attendant leaps out of the way of the Bronco which skids to a halt beside a row of phone booths. Alex leaps out, jams into the nearest booth & drops in a quarter.
PHONE BOOTH - TIGHT ON ALEX - 123
dialing & listening as Simon & Todd look on from the Bronco in the immediate b.g. Suddenly a BUSY SIGNAL.
ALEX
Busy!
He bangs the coin box in frustration, gets his quarter back, & quickly punches in three numerals.
TODD ( from b.g.)
Try '9-1-1'!
ALEX
I am, I am!
OPERATOR'S VOICE (in dulcet tones)
I'm sorry. All the circuits are busy. Your call will be handled in the order it was received . . .
The lush SOUND of an "Ebbtide" type recording floods the phone booth. Alex hangs up & dashes for the Bronco.
ALEX
I don't believe this! Now what?
INT. BRONCO - 124
Alex leaps back into the Bronco just as Simon squeezes into the backseat & starts sorting through the various sections of the blue delta-winged prototype of the Golden Fleece.
SIMON
I think I might have the answer. If you get us to the airport on time.
TODD
The 'Blue Streak'?
ALEX
Simon, it's in a dozen pieces!
SIMON
Alex, you're wasting time!
Alex hasn't much choice. He cranks it up & burns rubber.
Back to Top
EXT. AIRPORT APPROACH - DAY - 125
The van passes two motorcycle officers posted on foot by a turnoff marked "International Terminal" which is sealed off by a row of burning flares.
INT. VAN - CARGO AREA - 126
Hansen surveys the scene while Dekker checks his map.
HANSEN
Lots of security.
DEKKER (enjoying his innuendo)
I'd sure hate to be going to the airport!
(pointing off)
The next turn should be the frontage road.
EXT. ROADWAY - DAY - 127
CAMERA HOLDS as the van turns off & EXTIS FRAME . . . the ZOOMS INTO sign reading "AIRPORT INDUSTRIAL PARK".
INT. BRONCO - 128
Alex studies the passing road signs as Simon peer into the clutter of a storage box.
ALEX
No way they'd try to get by airport security.
SIMON
With a radio-controlled plane? They don't have to.
(muttering to self)
Hmm. I know I have some Krazy glue here somewhere.
ALEX
The immediate vicinity, that's where they've got to be setting up.
Simon pulls out a small plastic bottle to which are stuck a motley collection of paper clips, papers, etc.
SIMON
One of these days I'm going to invent a totally sane Krazy glue bottle!
A GIANT JUMBO JET - DAY (STOCK) - 129
ROARING in for a landing.
EXT. INDUSTRIAL PARK - 130
OVER the ROAR of the jet, we SEE the van pulling into an empty parking area behind an industrial building on which we SEE a giant "FOR LEASE" sign, & which affords both privacy & a clear view of the runway.
ON THE VAN - 131
Hansen & Dekker emerge from the van & exchange smiles as the jet makes a safe landing o.s., it's ROAR subsiding.
EXT. AIRPORT APPROACH - BRONCO DRIVE-BY - DAY (STOCK) - 132
INT. BRONCO - 133
Simon is just about hidden behind the wing as he blows on the glue that joins the two sections.
TODD
How do you know it'll fly?
SIMON
Simple. Because it absolutely has to!
ALEX (checking watch)
It better. It's too late to call anybody now!!
TIGHT ON RADIO RECEIVER - 134
Sophisticated, ten-bands, currently tuned to Control Tower frequency & now CRACKLING into static activity.
PILOT'S VOICE (filtered)
Five-twenty-four to tower . . .
CONTROLLER'S VOICE (filtered)
Five-twenty-four, take runway five-baker-nine . . .
PILOT'S VOICE
Roger. 524 confirming.
CAMERA PULLS BACK TO:
INT. VAN - DAY - 135
Hansen sits at a specially rigged control console in the back of the van. She yells out the open doors to Dekker who we SEE holding the back of the model as Hansen REVS its HIGH-PITCHED ENGINE & flips a switch activating a red light.
HANSEN
Okay, arming switch reads positive. Let it go!
EXT. VAN - MODEL PLANE - 136
Dekker releases it & it bumps along down the deserted parking lot & takes off, lifting swiftly into the sky.
EXT. JET LINER IN FLIGHT - DAY (STOCK) - 137
Descending in the morning sun, it's landing gear down.
INT. JET LINER - 138
It's passenger compartment is crowded with diplomatic types along with their wives & children. The mood is festive as an o.s. CABIN ATTENDANT gives last minute instruction over the intercom:
CABIN ATTENDANT (voice over)
Ladies & gentlemen, we're now in final approach so please make sure your seat belts are fastened.
A HAPPY HUM as everybody complies.
TIGHT ON MODEL AIRPLANE (GOLDEN FLEECE) - 139
looping & waggling it's wings as it WHINES across the sky.
EXT. VAN - 140
Dekker looks upward shading his eyes, calls to Hansen.
DEKKER (looks at watch)
Target's four minutes to touchdown.
EXT. FRONTAGE ROAD - 141
The Bronco ROARS along the airport perimeter.
INT. BRONCO - SIMON, ALEX & TODD - 142
Alex combs the sky out his window while Todd covers the other side. On the seat next to Simon, taking up most of the space, is the fully assembled blue prototype held together by glue, tape, wire, whatever. Suddenly Todd reacts & points out the window excitedly.
TODD
There it is!
THEIR P.O.V. - MODEL PLANE - 143
circling in distance.
EXT. EMPTY LOT - DAY - 144
Alex brings the Bronco to a SCREECHING halt & Simon leaps out. With Todd's help he quickly unloads the blue prototype, a makeshift flight box, & a cruder version of the TV remote-control setup used by Hansen.
ALEX
I hope we're not too late.
Simon pulls a starter motor from the flight box & applies it once . . . twice . . . & finally, on the third try, the engine SCREAMS to life. Simon looks at Alex & swallows as he fine-tunes the richness valve. As he does, the simulated plexiglas cockpit cover vibrates off. Simon looks at Alex & shrugs. Alex forces a smile.
ON PROTOTYPE MODEL - 145
Simon throttles forward. The plane staggers down the impromptu runway & lurches skyward. Its landing gear falls off.
ON ALEX & SIMON - 146
Simon smiles nervously at Alex.
SIMON
Piece of cake . . .
ALEX
What's the range on these radio controls?
SIMON
A couple of city blocks maybe. Why?
ALEX
Hansel & Gretel! They've got to be around here somewhere. I'm going to check it out.
As Alex turns away, Todd stops him.
TODD
Hey, Alex.
ALEX (pausing)
Yeah?
TODD
Watch it, huh?
Todd's concern is sincere. Alex gives him a "High Five".
ALEX
You got it.
He waves & disappears between two buildings.
EXT. JET LINER - DAY (STOCK) - 147
descending in the distance, but looming larger & larger.
INT. JET LINER - DAY - 148
A diplomat cuddles an infant & hands it to his wife as all brace for the landing. Again the ATTENDANT'S VOICE:
CABIN ATTENDANT (voice over)
On behalf of Captain Lopez & the crew, we'd like to wish the members of the San Paolo Peace Delegation success in their endeavors. And thank you for flying Condor Airlines.
The infant GURGLES happily. Everybody laughs.
EXT. JET LINER IN FLIGHT - BINOCULAR MATTE (STOCK) - 149
still descending.
EXT. VAN - DAY - 150
Dekker drops his binoculars & shouts to Hansen.
DEKKER
Condor 524! 1000 yards & closing!
HANSEN
Got it!
ON GOLDEN FLEECE - 151
streaking over the airport fence & climbing for height.
ANGLE ON PARKING LOT - 152
Alex appears from alleyway & scans the area.
HIS P.O.V. - PARKING LOT - 153
CAMERA ZOOMS INTO FULL SHOT OF van parked at far end.
BACK TO ALEX - 154
Turning & sprinting back to the safety of the alley.
ON SIMON - 155
working his controls feverishly as Todd looks on.
SIMON
Want to play, do you?
EXT. TWO MODELS IN FLIGHT - BINOCULAR MATTE - 156
ON DEKKER - 157
yelling to Hansen in alarm.
DEKKER
Mary! There's another model plane in the air!
INT. VAN - ON HANSEN - 158
hypnotically caught up in the fateful game.
HANSEN
I know, I have it on the monitor. It's got to be McKay!
(eyes locked on the monitor)
Poor Mckay. You're good . . .
(a sudden move with the controls)
. . . very good! But I've got the Golden Fleece -- you don't!
Dekker pokes his head into the van.
DEKKER
C'mon! Quit playin' around. You got thirty seconds!
HANSEN
Perfect!
THE DOGFIGHT - 159
The Golden Fleece veers to the right & rolls, losing the blue prototype.
ON SIMON - 160
smiling as he works the remote-controls.
SIMON
That was your first mistake. And hopefully your last.
BLUE PROTOTYPE - 161
climbing for altitude . . . leveling off . . . & nosing downward.
TIGHT ON HANSEN'S TV MONITOR - 162
The model's nose camera is fixed on Condor Flight 524, dead ahead, flaps down & totally vulnerable. PULL BACK TO INCLUDE:
DEKKER & HANSEN - 163
Dekker is transfixed as Hansen zeros in triumphantly.
DEKKER
Nail it!
Hansen's cold smile turns to a look of shock. The CAMERA ZOOMS BACK INTO TV MONITOR where we SEE the blue prototype sweep INTO VIEW pulling out of a power dive & heading TOWARD CAMERA on a collision course with the Golden Fleece.
ON HANSEN - 164
working the controls to no avail.
ON THE TWO MODEL PLANES - 165
coming together with a tremendous EXPLOSION accompanied by a searing FLASH of light.
ON DEKKER & HANSEN - 166
They stare dumbfounded at the distant pillar of smoke.
ON THE JET LINER (STOCK) - 167
touching down safely with the familiar SQUEAL of tires.
ON SIMON & TODD - 168
Simon jumps in the air victoriously pumping his arm, then dances around & around with a jubilant Todd.
SIMON
Yahooooooooo!!!
TODD
You did it! You did it!
Suddenly a dark cloud of concern sweeps across Simon's face.
SIMON
Alex!
EXT. PARKING LOT - TIGHT ON ALEX - DAY - 169
Skirting a dumpster bin trying to keep it between himself & the van as he closes in.
INT. VAN - DEKKER & HANSEN - 170
Dekker stares at Hansen contemptuously.
DEKKER
'If it's got wings, you'll fly it', huh?
HANSEN
Oh, shut up & lets get out of here!
HIGH ANGLE SHOT - VAN ROOF - 171
Alex leaps off the roof & rides Dekker to the ground as Dekker emerges from the rear of the van.
THE FIGHT - 172
Dekker rolls free & pulls his gun only to have Alex deflate him with a solid punch to the solar plexis. However, as they continue to wrestle for possession of the weapon, their path takes them in front of the van where:
HANSEN - 173
inverts her own pistol & slugs Alex from behind, sending him slumping to the pavement, semi-conscious. Dekker scrambles to his feet & joins Hansen in a mad rush to the van, Dekker slamming shut the rear doors.
ON ALEX - 174
raising his head groggily.
HIS P.O.V. - VAN - 175
Dekker slides behind the wheel, Hansen next to him, & throws the van in gear. The van starts toward him & we realize they're going to intentionally run over Alex. Suddenly, FROM o.s. the BEEP of a HORN.
ANOTHER ANGLE - PARKING LOT - 176
The Bronco skids a ninety degree turn & heads toward Alex, the driver's head barely peeking over the dash.
SLOW MOTION SHOT - BRONCO - 177
interdicting the van at right angles & sending it off on a tangent amid a slowly evolving spray of glass & metal fragments from crumpling fenders . . . both vehicles barely missing Alex who rolls to the side & comes up on his feet just in time to see:
THE BRONCO - 178
braking to a halt. The driver's door flies open & Todd jumps to the ground from behind the wheel.
FAVORING ALEX - 179
hardly believing what he sees.
ALEX
TODD?
INCLUDING SIMON - 180
who scrambles out of the back window sputtering in indignation as several police cars ROAR up LIGHTS FLASHING & disgorge two teams of cops who assist the shaken (but uninjured) Hansen & Dekker out of the van & apprehend them.
SIMON
Can you imagine?! The little devil drove off while I was packing away my gear!
TODD
Well you said we couldn't waste a second.
(to Alex)
So I don't have a driver's license, big deal!
ALEX (hiding a grin)
Yeah, well . . . I guess I can live with that.
SIMON (beaming at both)
That's what it's all about, isn't it, Todd? Living. And loving . . .
Simon reaches out & hugs Todd. Todd returns a heartfelt hug of his own much to Simon's delight as we:
FADE OUT
Back to Top
END OF ACT FOUR
***************************************************
TAG
FADE IN
EXT. ELM STREET HOUSE - DAY (STOCK) - 181
ESTABLISHING as we HEAR:
ALEX (voice over)
Listen to this, Simon . . .
INT. HALLWAY/STAIRS - DAY - 182
Alex is reading a letter from Todd as they head toward the stairway to the workshop.
ALEX
'I am back in school & hat it just like the good old days.'
SIMON
A boy after my own heart!
ALEX (continues to read)
'And you were right, Simon . . . as usual. Me & my folks are hitting it off pretty good so far. So thanks again for everything & tell Alex he's pretty cool for a Fed!'
Simon chuckles as he & Alex descend the stairs.
SIMON
Going to far, Todd is.
INT. SIMON'S WORKSHOP - DAY - 183
Simon & Alex discover Tillie standing by the open closet where the huge jumble of toys, tools, materials once again has spilled knee-deep onto the workshop floor.
TILLIE
Look at this mess! Just yesterday it took me 'til Tuesday & back to put this closet right.
SIMON
Poor Tillie . . .
(to Alex grinning)
. . . One of these days I should tell her the secret.
TILLIE (warily)
What? You got some kind of hare-brained clean-up invention . . .?
SIMON
Yep.
TILLIE
This I gotta see.
ALEX (playing along)
Can't. Top secret, Tillie.
SIMON
Just close your eyes until I tell you.
Tillie begrudgingly closes her eyes. Not trusting her Simon turns her around so her back is to the closet. Then, in a blur of kicking legs & shoving arms, he attacks the pile of stuff on the floor, kicking & scooping everything back into the closet by pushing the door shut with one last, mighty effort.
SIMON
You can look now, Tillie.
The area is spotless. Tillie turns & is stunned.
TILLIE
I don't believe it! How'd you do that?
She crosses to the closet & reaches for the doorknob.
SIMON
Tillie, no!!!
Too late. The door flies open & Tillie is half-buried under a cascade of junk, capped once again by the TINKLING of the tiny little bell.
TIGHT ON SIMON - 184
smiling up at Tillie . . . meekly, apologetically.
SIMON
I guess it's back to the ol' drawing board, eh Tillie?
FADE OUT
Back to Top
THE END
Script from The Michael Berk Collection
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