Thursday, June 30, 2011
My Top 25: #5 - #1
#5: Tokyo Godfathers (2003): Sometimes the best you can do is protect the innocent with all of your might. Three homeless men find a baby and resolve to take care of it; by doing so, they end up resolving their person issues and finding their own homes. Equal parts pathos and bathos, Tokyo Godfathers mixes humor and seriousness in such a way as to create a weird melange, and one that just works. Somehow. If the concoction was mixed with just a little more or less of what it has, it would have been an unworkable hodge podge of disparate elements, but the mix is just right, making for an incredible movie.
#4: Bambi (1942): Ironically the source of many controversies, including hunter's rights, animal rights, the right to bear arms, and the definition of vegetarian, this movie seems to have grown legs beyond its original meaning, which was merely a deer growing into its own destiny. A perennial family favorite, this is one of those few movies where grown men cry without embarrassment.
#3: Ghost in The Shell (1995): Exploring the nature of what makes us us, this cyberpunk classic combines beautiful detail and existentialism with some of the genre's greatest characters and plot to create something rather unique. By the end of the movie we are debating the existence of good and evil, recognizing that even the most insane among us have identifiable goals and that we all strive towards those goals. We are defined less by who we are and what we do; in a society where those roles can change at the drop of a hat, does that make us all disposable, like easy-to-reprogram robots? GitS asks this question just as we may advancing into a realm that makes it possible.
#2: Castle of Cagliostro (1979): Obviously a sentimental favorite (this is one of the first anime movies I watched), there is a lot to recommend this movie, and why it keeps showing up on convention schedules. Although it is a comedy, there are also levels of seriousness to the movie, such as Lupin deciding that he was going to defend the maiden's honor, as well as the teaming up of hunter and prey. It also cements the Lupin/Fujiko relationship. And the final reveal is worth it, especially if you like complicated machinery in action. There is a reason that this movie is a fan favorite, and will remain so for a long time.
#1: Pinocchio (1940): This is what animation is meant to be. This is one of the earliest cartoons to step away from the barely possible and simply have a lot of fun with the impossible. There are puppets turning into boys, boys turning donkeys, and a fish large enough that one can live inside of it. Unlike the other Disney movies, or even the shorts, there is nothing plausible about anything that happens in this movie, and yet we do not deny that any of could happen, even after we finish watching the movie. We can strip the legendary elements from almost any other Disney movie and still have a commoner become a princess, a prince find his love, or even a nobleman debate if he is more beast than man; it doesn't matter that Maleficent can become a dragon so much that she is the expression of evil or that a lion cub must grow to lead his pack. With Pinocchio you cannot strip those elements away without leaving a poorer tale behind, and that is what truly makes this movie the best animated ever.
Top 25: #10 - #6
#10: Iron Giant (1999): It should be really hard to fall in love with a weapon of mass destruction, but you can't help but love Hogarth. This is one of those movies that was marketed the wrong way, and yet still finds an audience. Not a major surprise as the Iron Giant himself was done rather well, and although full of the usual anti-war cliches it somehow still finds a way to make even the hardest man cry at the end. This is that rare movie, a movie with heart and soul that makes for a wonderful little respite from the difficulties in our own lives.
#9: Akira (1988): Akira was a phenomenon when it was originally released, ushering in a wave of Japanese animation that has yet to be really checked. It showed that animation did not need to be just for kids. To show you the power of this movie, it may be the first Hollywood movie to not find an audience due to its casting of non-Asians. The mix of punks, post-apocalyptic ruins, out of control psychic power, and extreme violence combined with beautiful animation made this movie something that could not be stopped, even more than twenty years later.
#8: The Incredibles (2004): This is one of those really weird movies: Not only does it make fun of its chosen genre, but it also shows us why we continue to believe in the genre. Synergy is a unique villain, as he craves the respect of his chosen hero and is willing to do whatever it takes to get it, even killing him. He could only be fought by The Incredibles, a family dedicated to each other no matter what, even when individual members screw up. Combined with some other rather unique characters such as Edna “E” Mode, it is one of those movies that shows us why families depend on each other.
#7: Sleeping Beauty (1959): Classic Disney animated movies should all be considered mandatory viewing. Sleeping Beauty is one of those that stands apart, as it is continually redefined in terms of the current political scene, with Princess Aurora finding herself at the center of almost every feminist struggle since her awakening. Maleficent is doubtless one of the most unforgettable villains of all time, willing to do anything to get what she wants, just as much as the fairies do what it takes to oppose her. With all that estrogen, it's easy to see why Prince Charming gets forgotten. This is still probably one of the best Disney animated cartoons, and that's no mean feat.
#6: Howl's Moving Castle (2004): Personally I'm more a fan of Only Yesterday, but this movie is far more important. Along with Disney movies, I think Miyazaki movies should also be considered mandatory viewing, and for basically the same reasons: They are gorgeous movies with incredible plot and unforgettable characters. Sophi's curse and subsequent choices make for one of the most enchanting movies. The world is rather nicely imagined, with all sorts of nice touches tossed in to show that this is a working world. It's that combination of whimsy and real that makes a Miyazaki film special, and it is never more on display than in this movie.
Top 25: #15 - #11
#15: Nightmare Before Christmas (1993): Stop-motion animation is one of those weird things about animation; it's not quite painted or drawn and is sort of live action. Nonetheless, it is unlikely that we will ever see it or its equivalent ever disappear from the catalog of animation. Nightmare Before Christmas is probably the best of this lot, especially if you ever got tired of those cheerful, perky Rankin-Bass holiday specials, or just wanted a Halloween movie that reminded you why Halloween is so cool before the politically-correct types got a hold of it and reduced it to “harvest festivals”.
#14: Wizards (1977): And now for something completely different. There is a lot of weirdness going on in this cartoon, ostensibly a World War II allegory with a decidedly post-apocalyptic and magical twist, where one wizard has found weapons of mass destruction and is using them to take over the world. The funny little magic trick at the end is worth the price of admission, as is the animation, which uses real stock footage to enhance the animation. Worth tracking down for anyone serious about animation.
#13: Shrek 2 (2004): I know it's weird to even mention a sequel, but this one is sort of special. The original turned fairy tales on their collective ear by having the usual monster become an unusual hero. The sequel, however, is superior to the original because it went after more fairy tales, and had a lot of fun doing it. It also had a little more fun slamming pop culture, and it can be watched be adults without much fear of insanity.
#12: Persepolis (2007): Sometimes animation can get away with being simple and elegant. Persepolis is also reasonably unique on this list as it is an autobiography; it's the story of a woman and her escape from repressive regime and her adventurers in Europe. This is a beautiful cartoon, and is fascinating to watch simply because it it such an elegant cartoon, without the details we are so used to in most cartoons today. It's a beautiful piece, and one that will take your breath away with its simplicity.
#11: Transformers: The Movie (1986): Although its theme song is among the most ridiculed out there, this movie nonetheless shows what epic scale a cartoon can be. There is death, destruction, and mayhem on a cosmic scale, and the antagonists are truly frightening; there is no question of who is on which side. This is a fun cartoon, especially for fans of space opera and giant robots, but there is enough pathos for even the die-hard Shakespeare fan.
Top 25: #20-#16
#20: The Lion King (1994): One of the finer Disney movies, this is Shakespeare for the junior set. The music is fun, and there are a number of great characters. This is what Disney attempts to be, fun in spots but with solid storytelling and a lot of respect with regards to what it's doing. Although memories mat make it seem like just a small comedy, the fates of Mustafa and Scar remind us that this is not a movie to be taken lightly.
#19: Toy Story (1995): Sometimes you need to be reminded that dreams can be shattered for the illusions that they are to be supplanted by a richer, better reality, and this is the movie that does that. Toy Story is a fun movie, but the audience has enough at stake that the problems of its plastic protagonists are watched from the edge of the seat. This is also one of the few trilogies that delivers on its promise, and is worth watching time and time again.
#18: South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut (1999): The best movies are those that push the envelope, and this one enjoys tearing those boundaries away. This is as close to a blasphemous movie as I've seen, and yet it still manages to have fun doing so. It's nice to see a cartoon that doesn't steer away from controversy, and in fact rushes straight into it, daring any to stop it.
#17: Aladdin (1992): This is the cartoon that allowed us to see what Robin Williams could really do. Even had he not been part of the movie, there is a lot to recommend this movie; any movie that has a carpet showing emotion, and one without a face of any kind, and is able to combine computer and cel animation at this level, deserves a thousand kudos. This is a great fun movie, and shows us why rollicking adventure will always be with us.
#16: Grave of the Fireflies (1988): Animation doesn't always need to be fun. Every so often it needs to be serious, to make us remember some of the worst moments that humanity has lived through. It needs to remind us that we, as human, are not perfect and that the world is not always saved at the last moment from our mistakes. Although whimsical in spots, this movie serves as a reminder that nuclear war should remain in the past, and that we should fight for peace whenever we can.
The Top 25: 25-21
#25: Bon Voyage, Charlie Brown! And Don't Come Back! (1980): Admittedly this is probably the most lightweight movie on this list, but it's also a fun one. It's also here because of the enduring quality of the Peanuts Gang, and it's one of the kid's movie that you can watch more than once without wanting to claw your eyes out. It's a sentimental favorite, but that it can hold its own against some of the movies on this list says a lot about our need to have something simple in our lives.
#24: Fantastic Planet (1973): One of only two European movies to make this list, this movie highlights the struggle of the minute Terr and his struggle to do something about his alien masters. In a way, this is the mandatory weird movie on the list; the movie is entrancing, and something to see for any student of animated film. Be advised that it can be a little slow, but it's definitely a journey worth taking.
#23: The Fox and The Hound: Although a decidedly low-key movie, this movie makes the list because it's simply hard to not watch it again. It's the standard tale of two childhood friends forced to fight against each other, but where love overcomes any boundaries. If there is any doubt as to why this is a classic, I dare anyone to watch and not feel a little warmer whenever you hear “I'm a hound dog”.
#22: Fritz the Cat (1972): Adult films usually make for bad cinema; there is too much a focus on the sex and not enough on the story. Bakshi's attempt at a socially relevant movies sometimes goes a little awry, but in general is an interesting look at the problems facing the US near the end of Nixon's presidency, ranging from racism to losing faith in government. Although it lacks much in the way of subtlety, it's an honest look at those times, if a bit raunchy in places.
#21: Paprika (2007): Although I debated its inclusion, Paprika shows what animation can be when it really wants to be something. The story of a woman attempting to do right through her patients' dream, it ranges from the sublime to the bizarre , sometimes within a few frames. Definitely a blue-ribbon of anime that screws with your head, this can be a very interesting trip.
My Top 25
Time Magazine recently unleashed its Top 25 Animated Movies of All Time. Suffice to say, the list sucked. There were too many “mandatory movies” (Prince Achmed, for example, was chosen to represent the oldest movies), and too many movies that were chosen apparently because the represented a particular genre. There were even some titles that made little to no sense (such as “The Bugs Bunny/Road Runner Movie”, which was just a compilation of cartoons). Worse, Ralph Bakshi and Brad Bird were noticeably missing from the list.
Because of this, I've compiled my own Top 25 list. I have tried to allow for movies that have had some impact on the animation business, or have been at least interesting. There is a definite bias towards re-watchability, as well as those that created some interesting waves. It should be noted that the list is skewed towards American and Japanese animation; this should not be taken as an affront to other countries, especially as those two countries have dominated the animation world.
Some movies did present some problems. “Yellow Submarine” was on the Times list; although an interesting picture, it's only reason for even a mention is that it pretty much encapsulated the decade it was created in. “The Triplets of Belleville” was a fun call; although I highly recommend watching it, it's one of those kind of films that is really only of interest to students of animation. It has a great plot, and some incredible characters, but the pacing would drive anyone else insane. “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” posed an interesting quandary; ultimately, I knocked it off not only because it wasn't fully animated, but because it was too much of a send-up of animation, and there were better choices.
Some honorable mentions: Animation is best when the animators have some fun. For those interested in some historical films, I believe the following are worthy of at least a mention. “Black Cauldron” is the first major motion picture to incorporate computer graphics into the movie; although not one of Disney's best, it is worth looking at for that incorporation. “Fire & Ice” had some serious story problems, but its use of Rotoscope techniques make it worthy of note. “Rock & Rule” and “Heavy Metal” are personal guilty pleasure; there are fun movies to watch with no real relevance, but work mostly as memorials to the time and music that they spring from.
Because of this, I've compiled my own Top 25 list. I have tried to allow for movies that have had some impact on the animation business, or have been at least interesting. There is a definite bias towards re-watchability, as well as those that created some interesting waves. It should be noted that the list is skewed towards American and Japanese animation; this should not be taken as an affront to other countries, especially as those two countries have dominated the animation world.
Some movies did present some problems. “Yellow Submarine” was on the Times list; although an interesting picture, it's only reason for even a mention is that it pretty much encapsulated the decade it was created in. “The Triplets of Belleville” was a fun call; although I highly recommend watching it, it's one of those kind of films that is really only of interest to students of animation. It has a great plot, and some incredible characters, but the pacing would drive anyone else insane. “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” posed an interesting quandary; ultimately, I knocked it off not only because it wasn't fully animated, but because it was too much of a send-up of animation, and there were better choices.
Some honorable mentions: Animation is best when the animators have some fun. For those interested in some historical films, I believe the following are worthy of at least a mention. “Black Cauldron” is the first major motion picture to incorporate computer graphics into the movie; although not one of Disney's best, it is worth looking at for that incorporation. “Fire & Ice” had some serious story problems, but its use of Rotoscope techniques make it worthy of note. “Rock & Rule” and “Heavy Metal” are personal guilty pleasure; there are fun movies to watch with no real relevance, but work mostly as memorials to the time and music that they spring from.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Deleted Scene
INT MED SHOT – CARLOS' HOUSE – GUYS
The guys are playing games.
CARLOS
You know, we should probably be practicing.
HECTOR
We've been at it for days. We need a break.
RAPHAEL
So it's time to try something entirely different?
CARLOS
Depends. What have you got in mind?
RAPHAEL
Something really weird. It gets us out of town for a little bit, if nothing else.
HECTOR
I'm not sure. I don't like being too far from my computer.
Carlos looks at Hector with a “are you serious?” stare.
CARLOS
Okay. Let's do it. Anything that gets him away from his tech has got to be worth
it. Even if we're running around naked howling at the moon.
RAFAEL
Funny you should put it that way.
Carlos looks at Rafael slightly confused.
EXT LONG SHOT – GARAGE – GUYS
SPEEDED UP: The guys are grabbing camping equipment left and right and putting it in Raphael's car.
Eventually it is all tied off.
The car departs.
EXT. LONG SHOT – SWEATLODGE – GUYS - NIGHT
The guys are about to enter the sweatlodge.
They are wearing nothing but loinclothes.
HECTOR
I can't believe that I'm wearing nothing but a strip of cloth.
RAPHAEL
You'll appreciate that. Trust me.
CARLOS
So...this belonged to your Grandpa?
RAPHAEL
Yep. He was half Sioux. When he moved out here, he made sure his traditions
moved with him. I can't believe we still have this land. Papa could just never sell
it.
CARLOS
Okay, so why are doing this again?
RAPHAEL
To lose control. To be better musicians.
HECTOR
Can we just get this over with? I'm getting cold.
CARLOS
I'm sort of with the geek.
Raphael backs away from the sweatlodge.
RAPHAEL
Okay. Enter the sweatlodge.
INT. MED SHOT – SWEATLODGE – GUYS
The guys enter the sweatlodge.
HECTOR
This is sort of nice.
CARLOS
Yeah.
RAPHAEL
Give it time. It does become unbearable.
SAME SCENE, THIRTY MINUTES LATER
All of the guys are covered in sweat.
HECTOR
Are we there yet?
CARLOS
Okay, so now it's unbearable.
RAPHAEL
Almost there.
SAME SCENE, THIRTY MINUTES LATER
The guys are nodding.
HECTOR
Just five more minutes...
CARLOS
This isn't fun anymore.
RAPHAEL
Okay, NOW!
He starts pushing the other two out of the sweatlodge.
EXT. MED SHOT – SWEATLODGE – GUYS
The guys run out of the sweatlodge.
They dive as far into the pond as they can.
They come up for air.
HECTOR
Okay. That was interesting.
CARLOS
Well, now my blood is rushing.
RAPHAEL
Good. But that was just the first stage.
HECTOR
So what's the next stage?
CARLOS
And how many stages are there?
Raphael just smiles.
HECTOR
I don't like that smile.
RAPHAEL
Remember that climbing equipment?
CARLOS
I definitely don't like that smile.
They start swimming to shore.
EXT LONG SHOT – MOUNTAIN - GUYS
The guys are climbing up a small mountain. They are carrying various cut up trees and backpacks.
HECTOR
You are no longer in control of our vacation plans.
CARLOS
Yeah. This is not as much fun as you promised.
RAPHAEL
I think you'll like what's on top.
CARLOS
We had better like it.
They continue on.
EXT. LONG SHOT – TOP OF MOUNTAIN – GUYS
They drop off their packs.
Hector and Carlos drop.
Raphael takes the packs and starts making a fire.
In moments the fire is done.
He takes some bottles and passes them around.
RAPHAEL
Some inspiration, gentlemen.
They grab and open the bottles.
Raphael pulls out a radio and turns it on. It plays speed metal.
RAPHAEL
Okay, guys. Stand up.
CARLOS
Do we have to...?
RAPHAEL
Now. And leave the bottles.
They put the bottles down and stand up.
Raphael starts shoving the other two.
Hector starts pushing Raphael back.
Carlos starts shoving Hector.
Soon they are all shoving each other.
It becomes more and playful and they start giggling.
They fall to their knees.
Raphael starts howling.
The other two join in.
EXT. CLOSE SHOT – CAR – GUYS
The guys are fully clothed and loading the car.
RAPHAEL
Well, that was fun.
CARLOS
Yeah. It was.
HECTOR
Even cathartic.
RAPHAEL
Good.
CARLOS
Now let's get home.
HECTOR
Yeah. Back to my computer.
The other two glare at him.
Then they look at each other.
They start slapping Hector.
Hector attempts to defend himself and ends up retreating into the car.
The others also get into the car.
The car pulls out.
The guys are playing games.
CARLOS
You know, we should probably be practicing.
HECTOR
We've been at it for days. We need a break.
RAPHAEL
So it's time to try something entirely different?
CARLOS
Depends. What have you got in mind?
RAPHAEL
Something really weird. It gets us out of town for a little bit, if nothing else.
HECTOR
I'm not sure. I don't like being too far from my computer.
Carlos looks at Hector with a “are you serious?” stare.
CARLOS
Okay. Let's do it. Anything that gets him away from his tech has got to be worth
it. Even if we're running around naked howling at the moon.
RAFAEL
Funny you should put it that way.
Carlos looks at Rafael slightly confused.
EXT LONG SHOT – GARAGE – GUYS
SPEEDED UP: The guys are grabbing camping equipment left and right and putting it in Raphael's car.
Eventually it is all tied off.
The car departs.
EXT. LONG SHOT – SWEATLODGE – GUYS - NIGHT
The guys are about to enter the sweatlodge.
They are wearing nothing but loinclothes.
HECTOR
I can't believe that I'm wearing nothing but a strip of cloth.
RAPHAEL
You'll appreciate that. Trust me.
CARLOS
So...this belonged to your Grandpa?
RAPHAEL
Yep. He was half Sioux. When he moved out here, he made sure his traditions
moved with him. I can't believe we still have this land. Papa could just never sell
it.
CARLOS
Okay, so why are doing this again?
RAPHAEL
To lose control. To be better musicians.
HECTOR
Can we just get this over with? I'm getting cold.
CARLOS
I'm sort of with the geek.
Raphael backs away from the sweatlodge.
RAPHAEL
Okay. Enter the sweatlodge.
INT. MED SHOT – SWEATLODGE – GUYS
The guys enter the sweatlodge.
HECTOR
This is sort of nice.
CARLOS
Yeah.
RAPHAEL
Give it time. It does become unbearable.
SAME SCENE, THIRTY MINUTES LATER
All of the guys are covered in sweat.
HECTOR
Are we there yet?
CARLOS
Okay, so now it's unbearable.
RAPHAEL
Almost there.
SAME SCENE, THIRTY MINUTES LATER
The guys are nodding.
HECTOR
Just five more minutes...
CARLOS
This isn't fun anymore.
RAPHAEL
Okay, NOW!
He starts pushing the other two out of the sweatlodge.
EXT. MED SHOT – SWEATLODGE – GUYS
The guys run out of the sweatlodge.
They dive as far into the pond as they can.
They come up for air.
HECTOR
Okay. That was interesting.
CARLOS
Well, now my blood is rushing.
RAPHAEL
Good. But that was just the first stage.
HECTOR
So what's the next stage?
CARLOS
And how many stages are there?
Raphael just smiles.
HECTOR
I don't like that smile.
RAPHAEL
Remember that climbing equipment?
CARLOS
I definitely don't like that smile.
They start swimming to shore.
EXT LONG SHOT – MOUNTAIN - GUYS
The guys are climbing up a small mountain. They are carrying various cut up trees and backpacks.
HECTOR
You are no longer in control of our vacation plans.
CARLOS
Yeah. This is not as much fun as you promised.
RAPHAEL
I think you'll like what's on top.
CARLOS
We had better like it.
They continue on.
EXT. LONG SHOT – TOP OF MOUNTAIN – GUYS
They drop off their packs.
Hector and Carlos drop.
Raphael takes the packs and starts making a fire.
In moments the fire is done.
He takes some bottles and passes them around.
RAPHAEL
Some inspiration, gentlemen.
They grab and open the bottles.
Raphael pulls out a radio and turns it on. It plays speed metal.
RAPHAEL
Okay, guys. Stand up.
CARLOS
Do we have to...?
RAPHAEL
Now. And leave the bottles.
They put the bottles down and stand up.
Raphael starts shoving the other two.
Hector starts pushing Raphael back.
Carlos starts shoving Hector.
Soon they are all shoving each other.
It becomes more and playful and they start giggling.
They fall to their knees.
Raphael starts howling.
The other two join in.
EXT. CLOSE SHOT – CAR – GUYS
The guys are fully clothed and loading the car.
RAPHAEL
Well, that was fun.
CARLOS
Yeah. It was.
HECTOR
Even cathartic.
RAPHAEL
Good.
CARLOS
Now let's get home.
HECTOR
Yeah. Back to my computer.
The other two glare at him.
Then they look at each other.
They start slapping Hector.
Hector attempts to defend himself and ends up retreating into the car.
The others also get into the car.
The car pulls out.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
PAGE 95-96
EXT LONG SHOT – FREEBORN STADIUM – GIRLS
The Golden Foxes are whipping the crowd into a frenzy.
Helen is beating the drums.
Heliodora's fingers are flying up and down her keyboard.
Abigail is strumming her guitar like her life depends on it.
A single guitar note cuts through the night.
Abigail pauses just long enough to glare at Carlos.
Helen looks to her right to see Hector matching her beat for beat.
Helen and Hector break out in a drumline routine, swinging their drumsticks like miniature batons.
Raphael has gotten behind Heliodora, and the play in perfect counterpoint.
Abigail and Carlos charge each other, and then break off at the last possible moment, just passing each other.
Helen and Hector are having too much fun on drums.
Raphael and Heliodora are half dancing, half playing.
Abigail and Carlos are dueling riffs.
The crowd eats all of this up.
This continues on for a few moments.
Abigail grabs for the mike.
ABIGAIL
And this is the Red Wolves Howl. Carlos Rodriguez on lead guitar. Raphael
Pizzaro on bass guitar, and Hector Montoya on drums. We love you in the
capable hands. Have good evening folks!
The Golden Foxes bow out and leave The Red Wolves Howl by themselves.
The guys rock and just lay into it.
Fireworks go off.
The guys bow out.
They join the girls. Helen and Hector pair up as do Raphael and Heliodora.
Abigail and Carlos shake hands and leave. By themselves.
INT. MED SHOT – GREEN ROOM – ANTONIO
Antonio is sitting back relaxing.
ANTONIO
Hope you enjoy it while it lasts, guys. The clock is ticking, and it never pauses.
The Golden Foxes are whipping the crowd into a frenzy.
Helen is beating the drums.
Heliodora's fingers are flying up and down her keyboard.
Abigail is strumming her guitar like her life depends on it.
A single guitar note cuts through the night.
Abigail pauses just long enough to glare at Carlos.
Helen looks to her right to see Hector matching her beat for beat.
Helen and Hector break out in a drumline routine, swinging their drumsticks like miniature batons.
Raphael has gotten behind Heliodora, and the play in perfect counterpoint.
Abigail and Carlos charge each other, and then break off at the last possible moment, just passing each other.
Helen and Hector are having too much fun on drums.
Raphael and Heliodora are half dancing, half playing.
Abigail and Carlos are dueling riffs.
The crowd eats all of this up.
This continues on for a few moments.
Abigail grabs for the mike.
ABIGAIL
And this is the Red Wolves Howl. Carlos Rodriguez on lead guitar. Raphael
Pizzaro on bass guitar, and Hector Montoya on drums. We love you in the
capable hands. Have good evening folks!
The Golden Foxes bow out and leave The Red Wolves Howl by themselves.
The guys rock and just lay into it.
Fireworks go off.
The guys bow out.
They join the girls. Helen and Hector pair up as do Raphael and Heliodora.
Abigail and Carlos shake hands and leave. By themselves.
INT. MED SHOT – GREEN ROOM – ANTONIO
Antonio is sitting back relaxing.
ANTONIO
Hope you enjoy it while it lasts, guys. The clock is ticking, and it never pauses.
Pages 90-94
INT. MED SHOT – CARLOS' HOME LIVING ROOM – GUYS - NIGHT
The guys are playing games.
CARLOS
So what are we going to do about band policies?
HECTOR
I'm not budging on the distribution of songs.
RAPHAEL
Definitely confirm the gigs before we go there.
CARLOS
Asking about safety features. That country bar still haunts me.
HECTOR
I f we have to dress down, I'm running.
RAPHAEL
If we have to dress up, I'm running.
CARLOS
So any bar that we can't decide what to wear is off the list.
HECTOR
So safety issues, costume policies, and bad music selection are the areas where
will refuse to play there. Oh, and a minimum crowd of 100.
CARLOS
Sounds good to me.
RAPHAEL
So now I can go back to kicking your butt?
CARLOS
My butt was not the one being kicked.
They go back to the game.
EXT. LONG SHOT – FREEBORN STADIUM – STAGE
The stage is in the middle of a small stadium.
The guys walk out onto the stage.
CARLOS
This is going to be fun to play in.
RAPHAEL
So...we're the halftime show?
HECTOR
Yep. Us and one other band.
CARLOS
I don't like the sound of that.
HECTOR
Then I won't tell you the band's name.
RAPHAEL
Let me guess: If you told me, you'd have to kill me?
HECTOR
Why do you always go for the violent response?
RAPHAEL
Because it's fun?
CARLOS
You guys just get weirder every day.
RAPHAEL
But that's the way you like us.
HECTOR
I don't know. I could trade you guys for a bearded iguana.
Carlos and Raphael stare at Hector.
HECTOR
Bearded iguanas are cool.
Carlos and Raphael hit him on the back of the head.
HECTOR
Sorry. I didn't know we were having a sensitive moment there.
They walk off the stage.
INT. LONG SHOT – GREEN ROOM – BOTH BANDS
Hector and Helen are snuggling.
Raphael and Helliodora are feeding each other.
Carlos and Abigail are playing a game of intense foosball.
Antonio enters.
Antonio WHISTLES
Everyone's attention is on Antonio.
ANTONIO
Okay. This is it. Just get out there, play your five songs, and then get off the
stage. No surprises, and don't do anything too weird. Just do what you do and
let's not have any problems. Okay?
Each pair looks at the other.
ALL
Yes, Coach!
Antonio's eyes roll.
ANTONIO
And this why I had none of my own.
Antonio leaves.
The kids separate into their different bands.
The girls leave first.
CARLOS
Do we have to what he says?
RAPHAEL
It would be a nice change.
HECTOR
Yeah. Like you two would change.
CARLOS
Good point.
Carlos and Raphael jog off.
HECTOR
That wasn't a suggestion. Well, not that way.
Hector jogs to catch up to them.
The guys are playing games.
CARLOS
So what are we going to do about band policies?
HECTOR
I'm not budging on the distribution of songs.
RAPHAEL
Definitely confirm the gigs before we go there.
CARLOS
Asking about safety features. That country bar still haunts me.
HECTOR
I f we have to dress down, I'm running.
RAPHAEL
If we have to dress up, I'm running.
CARLOS
So any bar that we can't decide what to wear is off the list.
HECTOR
So safety issues, costume policies, and bad music selection are the areas where
will refuse to play there. Oh, and a minimum crowd of 100.
CARLOS
Sounds good to me.
RAPHAEL
So now I can go back to kicking your butt?
CARLOS
My butt was not the one being kicked.
They go back to the game.
EXT. LONG SHOT – FREEBORN STADIUM – STAGE
The stage is in the middle of a small stadium.
The guys walk out onto the stage.
CARLOS
This is going to be fun to play in.
RAPHAEL
So...we're the halftime show?
HECTOR
Yep. Us and one other band.
CARLOS
I don't like the sound of that.
HECTOR
Then I won't tell you the band's name.
RAPHAEL
Let me guess: If you told me, you'd have to kill me?
HECTOR
Why do you always go for the violent response?
RAPHAEL
Because it's fun?
CARLOS
You guys just get weirder every day.
RAPHAEL
But that's the way you like us.
HECTOR
I don't know. I could trade you guys for a bearded iguana.
Carlos and Raphael stare at Hector.
HECTOR
Bearded iguanas are cool.
Carlos and Raphael hit him on the back of the head.
HECTOR
Sorry. I didn't know we were having a sensitive moment there.
They walk off the stage.
INT. LONG SHOT – GREEN ROOM – BOTH BANDS
Hector and Helen are snuggling.
Raphael and Helliodora are feeding each other.
Carlos and Abigail are playing a game of intense foosball.
Antonio enters.
Antonio WHISTLES
Everyone's attention is on Antonio.
ANTONIO
Okay. This is it. Just get out there, play your five songs, and then get off the
stage. No surprises, and don't do anything too weird. Just do what you do and
let's not have any problems. Okay?
Each pair looks at the other.
ALL
Yes, Coach!
Antonio's eyes roll.
ANTONIO
And this why I had none of my own.
Antonio leaves.
The kids separate into their different bands.
The girls leave first.
CARLOS
Do we have to what he says?
RAPHAEL
It would be a nice change.
HECTOR
Yeah. Like you two would change.
CARLOS
Good point.
Carlos and Raphael jog off.
HECTOR
That wasn't a suggestion. Well, not that way.
Hector jogs to catch up to them.
Pages 86 - 90
INT. MED SHOT – CLASSROOM – ABIGAIL
The classroom is empty besides Abigail, who is busy studying for a test.
Carlos walks up behind her.
ABIGAIL
Can I help you, Carlos? I'm busy studying for that AP final. You do remember
the AP final, correct?
CARLOS
Oh yeah. I'm pretty much ready.
ABIGAIL
How lucky for you.
CARLOS
We will never be friends, will we?
Abigail is confused. Then she smiles.
ABIGAIL
Oh, we will. After finals.
CARLOS
Good. I would hate to think that you and I would never be friends.
ABIGAIL
I honestly thought we were, after a fashion.
CARLOS
After a fashion?
ABIGAIL
No one has pushed me harder than you, Carlos. And I'm willing to bet that the
converse of that is true for you.
CARLOS
Yeah, I guess that's true. So with high school out of the way, will that
relationship change?
ABIGAIL
You have a band. I have a band.
CARLOS
OK. I just that I would ask.
ABIGAIL
But it does mean that the edge is off.
They smile.
CARLOS
I can live with that.
ABIGAIL
Here's hoping that we will be rivals for a long, long time.
They shake.
Carlos leaves.
INT. MED SHOT – ANTONIO'S OFFICE – ANTONIO
Antonio is filling out paperwork.
Samuel pops his head in.
SAMUEL
Antonio! Hello!
Antonio cocks an eyebrow.
ANTONIO
Hello, Samuel. I take you found something you like?
Samuel enters.
SAMUEL
Yes. Yes, I did. And I believe that we can do some business. If that is acceptable.
Antonio stands up.
ANTONIO
Excellent.
Antonio and Samuel shake hands.
INT. MED SHOT – CLASSROOM – ABIGAIL
Abigail is studying again.
Her cell buzzes.
She looks at it and picks it up.
ABIGAIL
Hello? (beat) Yes, that's me. (beat) Sounds interesting. (beat) Yes, I think we can
do that. (beat) We shall be there. Thank you.
She puts the phone down.
ABIGAIL
This will be a very interesting gig.
Abigail returns to studying.
INT. LONG SHOT – MYAMOTO DAY SPA – DOOR
Antonio peeks into the spa and leaves.
The guys are pushed in.
ANTONIO
You guys have a number of interviews. It's time to make you look pretty.
CARLOS
But, Antonio, we don't want to go.
RAPHAEL
We're pretty enough as it is!
HECTOR
Hey! Is that a new Gitasu hair gel?
The other guys look at Hector.
HECTOR
I have sisters. I was forced to notice that kind of stuff.
They recover.
ANTONIO
This will happen. Now enjoy! Or else it's back to the reception circuit with all of
you!
They shudder and then run in.
MONTAGE
The guys go into a changing room.
They come out in robes.
They sit down in chairs.
Woman give them manis and pedis.
They are then wheeled into a showering sink.
Their hair is cut.
They go back into the changing rooms.
They exit in their street clothes.
They are greeted by a woman, who they enthusiastically follow.
She takes them to a clothing store.
They go through several changes of clothes.
She takes them to a shoe store.
They try on several different pairs of shoes.
They decide on new boots.
They exit the mall with several large bags and look better than when they came in.
EXT LONG SHOT – MALL – GUYS
Antonio walks up to the guys.
ANTONIO
Now that wasn't so bad, now was it?
They glare at Antonio.
The classroom is empty besides Abigail, who is busy studying for a test.
Carlos walks up behind her.
ABIGAIL
Can I help you, Carlos? I'm busy studying for that AP final. You do remember
the AP final, correct?
CARLOS
Oh yeah. I'm pretty much ready.
ABIGAIL
How lucky for you.
CARLOS
We will never be friends, will we?
Abigail is confused. Then she smiles.
ABIGAIL
Oh, we will. After finals.
CARLOS
Good. I would hate to think that you and I would never be friends.
ABIGAIL
I honestly thought we were, after a fashion.
CARLOS
After a fashion?
ABIGAIL
No one has pushed me harder than you, Carlos. And I'm willing to bet that the
converse of that is true for you.
CARLOS
Yeah, I guess that's true. So with high school out of the way, will that
relationship change?
ABIGAIL
You have a band. I have a band.
CARLOS
OK. I just that I would ask.
ABIGAIL
But it does mean that the edge is off.
They smile.
CARLOS
I can live with that.
ABIGAIL
Here's hoping that we will be rivals for a long, long time.
They shake.
Carlos leaves.
INT. MED SHOT – ANTONIO'S OFFICE – ANTONIO
Antonio is filling out paperwork.
Samuel pops his head in.
SAMUEL
Antonio! Hello!
Antonio cocks an eyebrow.
ANTONIO
Hello, Samuel. I take you found something you like?
Samuel enters.
SAMUEL
Yes. Yes, I did. And I believe that we can do some business. If that is acceptable.
Antonio stands up.
ANTONIO
Excellent.
Antonio and Samuel shake hands.
INT. MED SHOT – CLASSROOM – ABIGAIL
Abigail is studying again.
Her cell buzzes.
She looks at it and picks it up.
ABIGAIL
Hello? (beat) Yes, that's me. (beat) Sounds interesting. (beat) Yes, I think we can
do that. (beat) We shall be there. Thank you.
She puts the phone down.
ABIGAIL
This will be a very interesting gig.
Abigail returns to studying.
INT. LONG SHOT – MYAMOTO DAY SPA – DOOR
Antonio peeks into the spa and leaves.
The guys are pushed in.
ANTONIO
You guys have a number of interviews. It's time to make you look pretty.
CARLOS
But, Antonio, we don't want to go.
RAPHAEL
We're pretty enough as it is!
HECTOR
Hey! Is that a new Gitasu hair gel?
The other guys look at Hector.
HECTOR
I have sisters. I was forced to notice that kind of stuff.
They recover.
ANTONIO
This will happen. Now enjoy! Or else it's back to the reception circuit with all of
you!
They shudder and then run in.
MONTAGE
The guys go into a changing room.
They come out in robes.
They sit down in chairs.
Woman give them manis and pedis.
They are then wheeled into a showering sink.
Their hair is cut.
They go back into the changing rooms.
They exit in their street clothes.
They are greeted by a woman, who they enthusiastically follow.
She takes them to a clothing store.
They go through several changes of clothes.
She takes them to a shoe store.
They try on several different pairs of shoes.
They decide on new boots.
They exit the mall with several large bags and look better than when they came in.
EXT LONG SHOT – MALL – GUYS
Antonio walks up to the guys.
ANTONIO
Now that wasn't so bad, now was it?
They glare at Antonio.
Pages 83-85
INT MED SHOT – RECORDING STUDIO – GUYS
Antonio is watching the studio mixer even as the guys are singing.
They finish a song.
MIXER
OK. Take five, guys.
The guys walk over to Antonio.
CARLOS
How did we go?
ANTONIO
So far so good.
RAPHAEL
That's good. I hope.
ANTONIO
Yes, it is.
The Mixer looks over at the guys.
MIXER
Hey, we need you guys back on your instruments.
The file off.
ANTONIO
This weekend is going to be fun to watch.
Antonio pulls out his cell as he leaves the studio.
EXT. LONG SHOT – PARK – RAPHAEL
Raphael is sitting in the park with two instrument carrying cases.
Heliodora walks up to him. He stands.
HELIODORA
Your call was fascinating. Something about you wanting to try a duet...?
RAPHAEL
Yeah. You, me, and some old friends.
HELIODORA
Yes. It was the old friends part that fascinated me.
He hands her the larger case.
She opens it. A set of bagpipes is inside.
He shows her his case, and opens it. Inside is a clarinet.
She smiles.
HELIODORA
This looks like fun.
She squeezes it.
He pipes a tweet.
RAPHAEL
I just wanted to see what we could do together.
HELIODORA
I like it.
RAPHAEL
That's the harder instrument, so feel free to start.
Heliodora starts on the bagpipes.
Raphael picks up the tempo and joins in.
A crowd quickly gathers, but the two of them ignore the crowd.
They have some fun together, chasing each other through the notes.
They stop.
Raphael moves in for a kiss. Heliodora does not resist him.
The crowd applauds.
INT. MED SHOT -SAMUEL'S OFFICE – SAMUEL
Samuel's office is a business office, whereas Antonio's mixes reception area and office.
An inter-office delivery boy drops off a CD in a jewel case with a Red Wolves Howl logo on it.
It lays for a moment until Samuel sees it.
He picks it up, opens up his computer's CD-ROM, and puts in the CD.
He listens to the music for a moment.
His foot starts tapping.
He smiles.
Antonio is watching the studio mixer even as the guys are singing.
They finish a song.
MIXER
OK. Take five, guys.
The guys walk over to Antonio.
CARLOS
How did we go?
ANTONIO
So far so good.
RAPHAEL
That's good. I hope.
ANTONIO
Yes, it is.
The Mixer looks over at the guys.
MIXER
Hey, we need you guys back on your instruments.
The file off.
ANTONIO
This weekend is going to be fun to watch.
Antonio pulls out his cell as he leaves the studio.
EXT. LONG SHOT – PARK – RAPHAEL
Raphael is sitting in the park with two instrument carrying cases.
Heliodora walks up to him. He stands.
HELIODORA
Your call was fascinating. Something about you wanting to try a duet...?
RAPHAEL
Yeah. You, me, and some old friends.
HELIODORA
Yes. It was the old friends part that fascinated me.
He hands her the larger case.
She opens it. A set of bagpipes is inside.
He shows her his case, and opens it. Inside is a clarinet.
She smiles.
HELIODORA
This looks like fun.
She squeezes it.
He pipes a tweet.
RAPHAEL
I just wanted to see what we could do together.
HELIODORA
I like it.
RAPHAEL
That's the harder instrument, so feel free to start.
Heliodora starts on the bagpipes.
Raphael picks up the tempo and joins in.
A crowd quickly gathers, but the two of them ignore the crowd.
They have some fun together, chasing each other through the notes.
They stop.
Raphael moves in for a kiss. Heliodora does not resist him.
The crowd applauds.
INT. MED SHOT -SAMUEL'S OFFICE – SAMUEL
Samuel's office is a business office, whereas Antonio's mixes reception area and office.
An inter-office delivery boy drops off a CD in a jewel case with a Red Wolves Howl logo on it.
It lays for a moment until Samuel sees it.
He picks it up, opens up his computer's CD-ROM, and puts in the CD.
He listens to the music for a moment.
His foot starts tapping.
He smiles.
Pages 79-82
INT. LONG SHOT – ANTONIO'S OFFICE – ANTONIO
Antonio is sitting behind his desk. His hands are folded.
He is not happy.
The guys walk in.
ANTONIO
Good afternoon, boys.
ALL THREE
Good afternoon, Mr. Santana.
ANTONIO
Sit down, please.
They sit.
ANTONIO
Good boys. Now has the problem been settled?
CARLOS/RAPHAEL
Yes, Mr. Santana.
ANTONIO
Good. So this means that you are ready for another gig?
CARLOS
Yes, sir.
ANTONIO
Good. I promise no more gigs like that last one. However, I'm sending you back
to the bars. Any problem with that, boys?
RAPHAEL
No, sir.
ANTONIO
And if you do well with this gig, then we talk recording studio. Okay?
CARLOS
Yes, sir.
Antonio gets up.
He motions for the boys to come closer.
They do.
He hugs them.
ANTONIO
You can be such morons, but I love you guys!
He throws them out of his office.
ANTONIO
Now get going! You have to practice.
EXT. LONG SHOT – GARAGE – GUYS
The guys are practicing in earnest.
Hector is smiling.
It is creeping the other two out.
A Volkswagen Bug shows up in front of the house.
The guys stop for a moment.
Helen emerges from the Bug.
Hector walks over to her.
Carlos and Raphael look at each other.
Hector brings her up to the other two.
HECTOR
This is my girlfriend, Helen.
Carlos and Raphael do a synchronized facepalm.
CARLOS
But she's from the Golden Foxes!
HECTOR
Well, she's not perfect, but---
HELEN
That's not what he said.
RAPHAEL
She can watch. But that's it.
HELEN
Is it because I'm a girl?
CARLOS
It's because you're not part of the band.
HELEN
Oh. I can live with that.
Hector brings out a chair for her.
CARLOS
So back to practice, Eagle?
HELEN
Why do you guys call him “Eagle”, anyway?
Hector glares at them.
They smile.
CARLOS
Because his nose was huge when he was young.
RAPHAEL
And his dad kept his head shaved.
CARLOS
It was either “Socrates” or “Eagle”, but Raph didn't get the Socrates joke.
Raphael slugs Carlos in the shoulder.
RAPHAEL
So we went with “Eagle”. Makes sense, really.
She sits down.
HELEN
Neat.
They get back to practice.
INT. LONG SHOT – FELLOW'S GATE TAVERN – GUYS
The guys are singing in the cavern of a bar that is the Fellow's Gate Tavern.
Antonio is in the back.
SAMUEL VEGA, an agent that is higher up ion the food chain than Antonio, walks up to him.
SAMUEL
So this is your newest discovery, Antonio?
ANTONIO
Yes, it is, Samuel.
Samuel listens for a moment.
SAMUEL
They have a nice sound. A little country perhaps, but also punk. Interesting.
ANTONIO
I thought you may be interested in listening to them for a moment.
SAMUEL
You may be right. Do you think you could have a decent demo disk done up for
me?
ANTONIO
Easily. In fact, I have them scheduled for a recording session tomorrow. I just
wanted to see how you felt about them before I fully committed.
SAMUEL
I like these boys.
ANTONIO
They are willing to try almost everything at least once.
SAMUEL
I am glad to hear it. Are they still in school?
ANTONIO
Yes, but they graduate in two weeks.
SAMUEL
Good timing. (beat) Okay, I think we may able to negotiate.
He slinks off.
Antonio smiles.
Antonio is sitting behind his desk. His hands are folded.
He is not happy.
The guys walk in.
ANTONIO
Good afternoon, boys.
ALL THREE
Good afternoon, Mr. Santana.
ANTONIO
Sit down, please.
They sit.
ANTONIO
Good boys. Now has the problem been settled?
CARLOS/RAPHAEL
Yes, Mr. Santana.
ANTONIO
Good. So this means that you are ready for another gig?
CARLOS
Yes, sir.
ANTONIO
Good. I promise no more gigs like that last one. However, I'm sending you back
to the bars. Any problem with that, boys?
RAPHAEL
No, sir.
ANTONIO
And if you do well with this gig, then we talk recording studio. Okay?
CARLOS
Yes, sir.
Antonio gets up.
He motions for the boys to come closer.
They do.
He hugs them.
ANTONIO
You can be such morons, but I love you guys!
He throws them out of his office.
ANTONIO
Now get going! You have to practice.
EXT. LONG SHOT – GARAGE – GUYS
The guys are practicing in earnest.
Hector is smiling.
It is creeping the other two out.
A Volkswagen Bug shows up in front of the house.
The guys stop for a moment.
Helen emerges from the Bug.
Hector walks over to her.
Carlos and Raphael look at each other.
Hector brings her up to the other two.
HECTOR
This is my girlfriend, Helen.
Carlos and Raphael do a synchronized facepalm.
CARLOS
But she's from the Golden Foxes!
HECTOR
Well, she's not perfect, but---
HELEN
That's not what he said.
RAPHAEL
She can watch. But that's it.
HELEN
Is it because I'm a girl?
CARLOS
It's because you're not part of the band.
HELEN
Oh. I can live with that.
Hector brings out a chair for her.
CARLOS
So back to practice, Eagle?
HELEN
Why do you guys call him “Eagle”, anyway?
Hector glares at them.
They smile.
CARLOS
Because his nose was huge when he was young.
RAPHAEL
And his dad kept his head shaved.
CARLOS
It was either “Socrates” or “Eagle”, but Raph didn't get the Socrates joke.
Raphael slugs Carlos in the shoulder.
RAPHAEL
So we went with “Eagle”. Makes sense, really.
She sits down.
HELEN
Neat.
They get back to practice.
INT. LONG SHOT – FELLOW'S GATE TAVERN – GUYS
The guys are singing in the cavern of a bar that is the Fellow's Gate Tavern.
Antonio is in the back.
SAMUEL VEGA, an agent that is higher up ion the food chain than Antonio, walks up to him.
SAMUEL
So this is your newest discovery, Antonio?
ANTONIO
Yes, it is, Samuel.
Samuel listens for a moment.
SAMUEL
They have a nice sound. A little country perhaps, but also punk. Interesting.
ANTONIO
I thought you may be interested in listening to them for a moment.
SAMUEL
You may be right. Do you think you could have a decent demo disk done up for
me?
ANTONIO
Easily. In fact, I have them scheduled for a recording session tomorrow. I just
wanted to see how you felt about them before I fully committed.
SAMUEL
I like these boys.
ANTONIO
They are willing to try almost everything at least once.
SAMUEL
I am glad to hear it. Are they still in school?
ANTONIO
Yes, but they graduate in two weeks.
SAMUEL
Good timing. (beat) Okay, I think we may able to negotiate.
He slinks off.
Antonio smiles.
Pages 73-77
INT. CLOSE SHOT – SWEATLODGE – RAPHAEL
Raphael is falling asleep in the smoke-filled sweatlodge.
EXT. LONG SHOT – MOUNTAIN – RAPHAEL - DAY
He wakes on top of a mountain.
RAPHAEL
Okay. This is weird.
GRANDPA (OS)
Well, for you maybe.
GRANDPA, an ancient Native American shaman, is right behind Raphael.
RAPHAEL
Grandpa? Am I dead?
GRANDPA
Not for lack of trying. But no, you're not dead.
RAPHAEL
So this is what it feels like to have a vision...
GRANDPA
Yes. Someone had to tell you what a douche you are being and this seemed to be
the most fun way for me to do it.
RAPHAEL
This is about the breaking up the band.
GRANDPA
No. It's about your political opinion. Moron. Of course it's about the break-up.
RAPHAEL
It's only until Carlos makes the right decision.
GRANDPA
Oh, that will be taken care of. Meanwhile, you need to stop being a douche.
RAPHAEL
Old man, what is your problem?
GRANDPA
You and your punk rock. Stop being so set in your ways. You're a young ma; you
should be exploring, not calcifying. Your dad will be fine. Go elsewhere.
RAPHAEL
But Papa is going to be ---
GRANDPA
He'll be fine, you moron. Go have some fun before you join me here, okay? I
need some stories, and if you stay with your dad, great person that he is, I'm just
going to get some boring stories. So go and fly. Or else.
RAPHAEL
Or else what?
GRANDPA
Or else I'm never telling you where the family treasure is.
RAPHAEL
There is no “family treasure”!
GRANDPA
See, always being a douche! Stop it!
RAPHAEL
I was missing you.
GRANDPA
Kids.
Grandpa reaches for Raphael.
INT. CLOSE SHOT – SWEATLODGE – RAPHAEL
Someone is reaching for Raphael.
EXT. CLOSE SHOT – SWEATLODGE – RAPHAEL
Raphael is being tossed into the pond.
RAPHAEL
Eagle?
Hector is on the shore with a motorcycle behind him.
HECTOR
Yeah. Now get out of there and get dressed while I put out the fire.
RAPHAEL
Hey! You saved me?
HECTOR
And people blame the education system.
Hector attends to the fire as Raphael swims to shore.
INT. MED SHOT – CARLOS' ROOM - CARLOS
Carlos is trying to do some homework.
He is problems concentrating.
He throws the book down.
FX: HONK (OUTSIDE)
Carlos goes to the window.
He sees Hector and Raphael below.
HECTOR
Get down here NOW!
Carlos runs out of his room.
EXT. - MED SHOT – CARLOS' HOUSE – GUYS
Carlos runs out of the house.
CARLOS
What's going on?
Hector directs him to stand in a spot.
When Carlos gets there, Hector smacks him and Raphael on the back of their heads.
They look ticked.
HECTOR
You morons. Next time, you're discussing the band's future, I'm going to be there.
I am a part of this band, and so I have a voice in it as well. Remember that next
time. Okay?
Rafael and Carlos look at each other.
They smile sheepishly and turn to Hector.
RAFAEL/CARLOS
Yes, Daddy.
HECTOR
Kids. (beat) So, you couldn't decide on a particular style of music?
RAFAEL
He wanted alternative rock!
CARLOS
He wanted punk!
Hector glares at them.
HECTOR
Morons. We'll do 40% punk, 40% rock, and 20% country.
Raphael and Carlos look at each other, confused.
Raphael and Carlos look at Hector.
HECTOR
I like country. Deal with it.
CARLOS/RAPHAEL
Okay.
Hector moves over to his motorcycle.
HECTOR
Work out the details. We'll talk tomorrow.
Hector rides off into the night.
CARLOS
Would you like some hot chocolate?
RAPHAEL
With those itsy-bitsy marshmallows? That would be nice.
CARLOS
Then come inside.
They go inside.
Raphael is falling asleep in the smoke-filled sweatlodge.
EXT. LONG SHOT – MOUNTAIN – RAPHAEL - DAY
He wakes on top of a mountain.
RAPHAEL
Okay. This is weird.
GRANDPA (OS)
Well, for you maybe.
GRANDPA, an ancient Native American shaman, is right behind Raphael.
RAPHAEL
Grandpa? Am I dead?
GRANDPA
Not for lack of trying. But no, you're not dead.
RAPHAEL
So this is what it feels like to have a vision...
GRANDPA
Yes. Someone had to tell you what a douche you are being and this seemed to be
the most fun way for me to do it.
RAPHAEL
This is about the breaking up the band.
GRANDPA
No. It's about your political opinion. Moron. Of course it's about the break-up.
RAPHAEL
It's only until Carlos makes the right decision.
GRANDPA
Oh, that will be taken care of. Meanwhile, you need to stop being a douche.
RAPHAEL
Old man, what is your problem?
GRANDPA
You and your punk rock. Stop being so set in your ways. You're a young ma; you
should be exploring, not calcifying. Your dad will be fine. Go elsewhere.
RAPHAEL
But Papa is going to be ---
GRANDPA
He'll be fine, you moron. Go have some fun before you join me here, okay? I
need some stories, and if you stay with your dad, great person that he is, I'm just
going to get some boring stories. So go and fly. Or else.
RAPHAEL
Or else what?
GRANDPA
Or else I'm never telling you where the family treasure is.
RAPHAEL
There is no “family treasure”!
GRANDPA
See, always being a douche! Stop it!
RAPHAEL
I was missing you.
GRANDPA
Kids.
Grandpa reaches for Raphael.
INT. CLOSE SHOT – SWEATLODGE – RAPHAEL
Someone is reaching for Raphael.
EXT. CLOSE SHOT – SWEATLODGE – RAPHAEL
Raphael is being tossed into the pond.
RAPHAEL
Eagle?
Hector is on the shore with a motorcycle behind him.
HECTOR
Yeah. Now get out of there and get dressed while I put out the fire.
RAPHAEL
Hey! You saved me?
HECTOR
And people blame the education system.
Hector attends to the fire as Raphael swims to shore.
INT. MED SHOT – CARLOS' ROOM - CARLOS
Carlos is trying to do some homework.
He is problems concentrating.
He throws the book down.
FX: HONK (OUTSIDE)
Carlos goes to the window.
He sees Hector and Raphael below.
HECTOR
Get down here NOW!
Carlos runs out of his room.
EXT. - MED SHOT – CARLOS' HOUSE – GUYS
Carlos runs out of the house.
CARLOS
What's going on?
Hector directs him to stand in a spot.
When Carlos gets there, Hector smacks him and Raphael on the back of their heads.
They look ticked.
HECTOR
You morons. Next time, you're discussing the band's future, I'm going to be there.
I am a part of this band, and so I have a voice in it as well. Remember that next
time. Okay?
Rafael and Carlos look at each other.
They smile sheepishly and turn to Hector.
RAFAEL/CARLOS
Yes, Daddy.
HECTOR
Kids. (beat) So, you couldn't decide on a particular style of music?
RAFAEL
He wanted alternative rock!
CARLOS
He wanted punk!
Hector glares at them.
HECTOR
Morons. We'll do 40% punk, 40% rock, and 20% country.
Raphael and Carlos look at each other, confused.
Raphael and Carlos look at Hector.
HECTOR
I like country. Deal with it.
CARLOS/RAPHAEL
Okay.
Hector moves over to his motorcycle.
HECTOR
Work out the details. We'll talk tomorrow.
Hector rides off into the night.
CARLOS
Would you like some hot chocolate?
RAPHAEL
With those itsy-bitsy marshmallows? That would be nice.
CARLOS
Then come inside.
They go inside.
Pages 68-72
EXT. LONG SHOT – DESERT – RAPHAEL
Raphael is walking through the desert.
He is following a creek bed.
He quickly comes upon a sweat lodge next to some trees and a small pond.
He starts a fire.
RAPHAEL
Well, Grandpa, you said I could come here when I needed to think. This is
definitely one of those times.
Raphael starts up small fire.
INT. MED SHOT – CARLOS' HOUSE – CARLOS
Carlos is closing the door.
BONITA, his cute younger sister, greets him.
BONITA
Ready for that homework assignment?
CARLOS
Do I look ready?
BONITA
Don't care. It needs to get done, and I need your help. Your choice: You want to
be ready now or when Mom gets done with you?
CARLOS
Let's get it done with.
BONITA
And that's why I love you.
She grabs her homework as Carlos sits down at the table.
BONITA
All I need help with is---What's wrong?
CARLOS
The band broke up.
BONITA
Cool. I won the pool.
CARLOS
You reduced a major event in my life down to a betting pool?
BONITA
I usually do. I've won three of the last seven dating pools, and I still remember
losing the bet when we were betting on when you would get your driver's
license. I should have realized Dad had the inside track on that.
CARLOS
Am I nothing but entertainment to you people?
BONITA
Nope. I also need you for homework. So you're not completely useless.
CARLOS
Thanks.
BONITA
No problem, bro! Besides you broke up with Raphael, right?
CARLOS
Right. We had a fight.
BONITA
Yeah. Like the Burger Wars and its sequels. Or over Amy. Or because he was
being a jerk after the eighth grade graduation. Yeah. It's just temporarily. You do
have sort of a record.
CARLOS
You keep track of that, but not my birthday?
BONITA
Easier. There is a betting pool on whether you'll marry him, Abigail, or someone
else. I'm betting for Raphael.
CARLOS
I'm not even gay!
BONITA
For now. Things change, Carlos, things change. (beat) So what was it all about,
anyway?
CARLOS
What kind of music the band was going to play.
BONITA
Figures. And you wanted alternative rock, whatever that is, and he wanted punk,
right?
CARLOS
Um. Yeah. How did you know?
BONITA
Have you seen the clothes he wears? And that stuff you listen to? Yeah. It takes a
rocket scientist to put that together. (beat) You're a moron, of course.
CARLOS
Look who needs my help.
BONITA
Please. I'm not the one who couldn't figure out that alternative rock is just a form
of punk rock, and then broke up with my friend over it.
CARLOS
Too little too late. What's done is done.
BONITA
Okay. (beat) So let's get going on the homework.
He picks up her book.
INT. CLOSE SHOT – HOTEL ROOM – BED - NIGHT
The blankets cover two forms.
Hector comes out from under the covers shirtless.
He looks at the clock.
HECTOR
Heh. My parents must be nervous wrecks by now.
He looks over at his pants.
He grabs them and his cell falls out.
It's blinking furiously.
HECTOR
Who did I tick off this time?
He picks it up and flips it open.
HECTOR
Well, my parents are represented. As are Raph and Carlos. They must have
gotten into another fight. They just need to have it out in a room sometime. They
more than my parents, but without the after party. Yeah, I needed THAT thought.
And....Antonio? Weird.
He presses the cell's buttons and holds it to his ear.
An eyebrow cocks up.
HECTOR
Morons.
Helen comes out from under the covers.
HELEN
Everything okay....?
HECTOR
Oh, it will be once I beat some people.
HELEN
You can get violent?
They embrace.
HECTOR
Only when it comes to those two.
Helen smiles.
HELEN
You should see Hel and Abby go at it.
Hector smiles.
HECTOR
That's why I love being the drummer. Unfortunately, I need to go. I might be
back later.
HELEN
You have two hours. Then I start getting dressed,
Hector starts getting dressed in hurry.
He leaves, almost forgetting to open the door.
Helen smiles.
HELEN
Oh yeah. He's going to be back.
She rolls over.
Raphael is walking through the desert.
He is following a creek bed.
He quickly comes upon a sweat lodge next to some trees and a small pond.
He starts a fire.
RAPHAEL
Well, Grandpa, you said I could come here when I needed to think. This is
definitely one of those times.
Raphael starts up small fire.
INT. MED SHOT – CARLOS' HOUSE – CARLOS
Carlos is closing the door.
BONITA, his cute younger sister, greets him.
BONITA
Ready for that homework assignment?
CARLOS
Do I look ready?
BONITA
Don't care. It needs to get done, and I need your help. Your choice: You want to
be ready now or when Mom gets done with you?
CARLOS
Let's get it done with.
BONITA
And that's why I love you.
She grabs her homework as Carlos sits down at the table.
BONITA
All I need help with is---What's wrong?
CARLOS
The band broke up.
BONITA
Cool. I won the pool.
CARLOS
You reduced a major event in my life down to a betting pool?
BONITA
I usually do. I've won three of the last seven dating pools, and I still remember
losing the bet when we were betting on when you would get your driver's
license. I should have realized Dad had the inside track on that.
CARLOS
Am I nothing but entertainment to you people?
BONITA
Nope. I also need you for homework. So you're not completely useless.
CARLOS
Thanks.
BONITA
No problem, bro! Besides you broke up with Raphael, right?
CARLOS
Right. We had a fight.
BONITA
Yeah. Like the Burger Wars and its sequels. Or over Amy. Or because he was
being a jerk after the eighth grade graduation. Yeah. It's just temporarily. You do
have sort of a record.
CARLOS
You keep track of that, but not my birthday?
BONITA
Easier. There is a betting pool on whether you'll marry him, Abigail, or someone
else. I'm betting for Raphael.
CARLOS
I'm not even gay!
BONITA
For now. Things change, Carlos, things change. (beat) So what was it all about,
anyway?
CARLOS
What kind of music the band was going to play.
BONITA
Figures. And you wanted alternative rock, whatever that is, and he wanted punk,
right?
CARLOS
Um. Yeah. How did you know?
BONITA
Have you seen the clothes he wears? And that stuff you listen to? Yeah. It takes a
rocket scientist to put that together. (beat) You're a moron, of course.
CARLOS
Look who needs my help.
BONITA
Please. I'm not the one who couldn't figure out that alternative rock is just a form
of punk rock, and then broke up with my friend over it.
CARLOS
Too little too late. What's done is done.
BONITA
Okay. (beat) So let's get going on the homework.
He picks up her book.
INT. CLOSE SHOT – HOTEL ROOM – BED - NIGHT
The blankets cover two forms.
Hector comes out from under the covers shirtless.
He looks at the clock.
HECTOR
Heh. My parents must be nervous wrecks by now.
He looks over at his pants.
He grabs them and his cell falls out.
It's blinking furiously.
HECTOR
Who did I tick off this time?
He picks it up and flips it open.
HECTOR
Well, my parents are represented. As are Raph and Carlos. They must have
gotten into another fight. They just need to have it out in a room sometime. They
more than my parents, but without the after party. Yeah, I needed THAT thought.
And....Antonio? Weird.
He presses the cell's buttons and holds it to his ear.
An eyebrow cocks up.
HECTOR
Morons.
Helen comes out from under the covers.
HELEN
Everything okay....?
HECTOR
Oh, it will be once I beat some people.
HELEN
You can get violent?
They embrace.
HECTOR
Only when it comes to those two.
Helen smiles.
HELEN
You should see Hel and Abby go at it.
Hector smiles.
HECTOR
That's why I love being the drummer. Unfortunately, I need to go. I might be
back later.
HELEN
You have two hours. Then I start getting dressed,
Hector starts getting dressed in hurry.
He leaves, almost forgetting to open the door.
Helen smiles.
HELEN
Oh yeah. He's going to be back.
She rolls over.
Pages 64-67
INT. CLOSE SHOT – NICE RESTAURANT – HECTOR
Hector is dressed nice and waiting nervously.
Helen walks up. She is vision of loveliness in a gorgeous red dress. It shows off her biceps, of course, but it also shows off a little leg.
Hector stands up and moves behind her.
They cuddle just a little.
A waiter comes up from behind them.
WAITER
I will be your waiter this evening. Shall I start you off with some seating?
Hector blushes a little. He pulls out Helen's chair, she sits down, and Hector pushes her in.
Hector sits himself.
WAITER
Good. Now would you like something to drink?
HECTOR
Soda would be nice.
HELEN
Some apple juice.
WAITER
Sounds good. I will be back.
The waiter disappears.
HECTOR
I'm so glad you showed up. I wasn't sure you were going to come.
HELEN
That should never have been in doubt.
HECTOR
I missed you.
HELEN
I've been counting the moments. I want to get to know you even more.
The waiter shows back.
WAITER
Here is your soda, and your apple juice, and now I'm going to go find some
insulin for my ensuing diabetes. You still need time to look at the menu. I will be
back in a few minutes, okay?
He disappears.
HECTOR
I could stare at you forever.
HELEN
Well, I would hope you would do more than stare.
Hector smiles.
HECTOR
Guess we should look at the menu.
HELEN
Why? I already know what I want.
HECTOR
You are such a great date. But we may want to eat first.
HELEN
Okay. I guess.
HECTOR
Okay, I know what I want. And it's not you. Not right now.
HELEN
So I wasted the time looking for this dress?
HECTOR
No. I mean, I just decided on what I wanted to eat.
HELEN
Oh. Then so have I. And I guess I should decide on what's for dinner.
Hector is blushing a little bit.
The waiter shows back up.
WAITER
I trust you have made up your minds?
HECTOR
Mostly. I want the steak, well-done, with a potato and bleu cheese on the salad.
HELEN
I'm going with the trout, and vinagrette dressing.
WAITER
Fabulous. I shall attend to your salads. And my new-found indigestion.
He disappears.
HELEN
I think that I've decided something else...
HECTOR
Like he's not getting a tip?
HELEN
Okay, I can with that. For now.
Hector blushes.
Hector is dressed nice and waiting nervously.
Helen walks up. She is vision of loveliness in a gorgeous red dress. It shows off her biceps, of course, but it also shows off a little leg.
Hector stands up and moves behind her.
They cuddle just a little.
A waiter comes up from behind them.
WAITER
I will be your waiter this evening. Shall I start you off with some seating?
Hector blushes a little. He pulls out Helen's chair, she sits down, and Hector pushes her in.
Hector sits himself.
WAITER
Good. Now would you like something to drink?
HECTOR
Soda would be nice.
HELEN
Some apple juice.
WAITER
Sounds good. I will be back.
The waiter disappears.
HECTOR
I'm so glad you showed up. I wasn't sure you were going to come.
HELEN
That should never have been in doubt.
HECTOR
I missed you.
HELEN
I've been counting the moments. I want to get to know you even more.
The waiter shows back.
WAITER
Here is your soda, and your apple juice, and now I'm going to go find some
insulin for my ensuing diabetes. You still need time to look at the menu. I will be
back in a few minutes, okay?
He disappears.
HECTOR
I could stare at you forever.
HELEN
Well, I would hope you would do more than stare.
Hector smiles.
HECTOR
Guess we should look at the menu.
HELEN
Why? I already know what I want.
HECTOR
You are such a great date. But we may want to eat first.
HELEN
Okay. I guess.
HECTOR
Okay, I know what I want. And it's not you. Not right now.
HELEN
So I wasted the time looking for this dress?
HECTOR
No. I mean, I just decided on what I wanted to eat.
HELEN
Oh. Then so have I. And I guess I should decide on what's for dinner.
Hector is blushing a little bit.
The waiter shows back up.
WAITER
I trust you have made up your minds?
HECTOR
Mostly. I want the steak, well-done, with a potato and bleu cheese on the salad.
HELEN
I'm going with the trout, and vinagrette dressing.
WAITER
Fabulous. I shall attend to your salads. And my new-found indigestion.
He disappears.
HELEN
I think that I've decided something else...
HECTOR
Like he's not getting a tip?
HELEN
Okay, I can with that. For now.
Hector blushes.
Pages 59-63
INT. MED SHOT – DRESSING ROOM – DOOR TO STAGE
The guys come through the stage door. They are wearing nothing but white socks.
Hector yanks off his sock, tosses it down, and starts dressing.
HECTOR
Okay, never again. Ever.
Raphael slips on his pants.
RAPHAEL
Okay, that was fun. (beat) But yeah, man; never again. I think I got that out of my
system.
HECTOR
I am so in need of a shower right now.
CARLOS
I don't know what you're complaining about. They didn't toss beer cans at you.
RAPHAEL
At least they weren't full. Even though that would have been debatably better.
Carlos slips on his shirt.
CARLOS
Yeah. Definitely the last time we do this.
Fully dressed, the guys go back out to start breaking down their equipment.
INT. MED SHOT – CHEAP RESTAURANT – ENTRY DOOR
Carlos and Raphael enter smiling.
RAPHAEL
Okay, so that's one we DON'T tell our kids.
CARLOS
Definitely. I'm not sure if they would even believe us.
RAPHAEL
True.
They are seated.
They order sodas.
CARLOS
Oh man. We need to set some rules with Antonio about gigs we will and will not
accept from now on.
RAPHAEL
Oh, yes. At least I think we earned points in the “we're willing to do anything once” club.
CARLOS
Yeah, and I don't think he'll be doubting our sincerity any time soon.
RAPHAEL
You are aware that this brings up some interesting questions, then, right?
The sodas are delivered.
WAITRESS
You guys ready to order?
RAPHAEL
Just the #3, thanks. With fries.
CARLOS
The #4. With slaw. (looks at Raphael) Just trying something different...
WAITRESS
That's a #3 with fries and a number #4 with slaw. We'll have that right up, guys.
RAPHAEL/CARLOS
Thanks.
CARLOS
Such as?
RAPHAEL
Recording a demo. Marketing. Getting paid for downloads.
CARLOS
Well, we have enough for the demo, and we can do marketing ourselves. We
should definitely get Antonio started on the downloads.
RAPHAEL
And we need to decide on a direction. We can't do covers forever.
CARLOS
Yeah. We need to decide on a theme for the band.
RAPHAEL
Yep. I think that Hector will go with whatever we decide, as long as it's not too
wild.
CARLOS
Or rap. But, yeah. We need to decide where we want to go. I know you want to
keep it local, right?
RAPHAEL
For now, yeah. I think we need some more seasoning before we get any more
serious. Also, it allows us to build contacts we don't have right now. And we're
going to need them when we start selling CD's.
CARLOS
I think we can go national now. It's just a matter of getting more reviews. I think
that downloads is the way to go rather than CD's, by the way.
RAPHAEL
Okay, I can concede the dowloads versus CD's issue. Anyway to get a four-
month suspension on going national? We will need time to build the reviews, if
nothing else.
CARLOS
Good point. Okay. And any limitations on venues?
RAPHAEL
We'll need to deal with that as it comes up. But no more nudity. I don't want to
see Hector naked ever again.
They smile and clink glasses.
CARLOS
We should also limit the small bars we show up in.
RAPHAEL
And no bar mitvahs or birthday parties. Basically, if the audience is smaller than
two hundred.
CARLOS
Yeah. It's not that we're above them, but if we limit ourselves to the bigger events
that will make Antonio work harder for us.
RAPHAEL
Which brings us to the last problem. And the thorniest.
CARLOS
Yep. What kind of music do we play.
RAPHAEL
Let's play the elimination game. We do pretty much punk and rock. It's going to
come down to one of those. I'm punk, you're rock. Both of those are dependent
on the drums, so Hector likes them both. So convince me.
CARLOS
Rock is easier to sustain over the long term. It gives us more variety, as well as a
wider range of influences. If we're stuck, we can even look at country for
inspiration. It's also an easier sell. Overall, I think that rock is the way to go.
RAPHAEL
I think it's time to focus. If we keep to the more general, we may get distracted
too easily and whatever we're doing will dissipate quickly. It also keeps us sharp
and we can have more fun with it. If we don't keep it fun, we will lose interest
in it, and quickly. You're right about needing to keep it general, but you can turn
anything punk. The Ramones proved that.
CARLOS
I still think that we should go alternative rock.
RAPHAEL
It sucks. It's become corp-drivel and I think it needs something to burn through
it.
CARLOS
And punk is the answer?
RAPHAEL
Yeah.
CARLOS
I don't think so. We need to get serious and alternative rock is the best ---
RAPHAEL
---alternative? Yeah, but alternative to what? Aren't you tired of just doing the
alternative. Time to take a stand and do what's right, not what makes a buck.
CARLOS
Yeah, but college. And I want to move out of my folks home.
RAPHAEL
Some of us have responsibilities, you know. I need to start doing something
serious to pay some bills. And then there's Papa. They're going to force him to
retire soon, you know.
CARLOS
So we go the big money route. For now.
RAPHAEL
We can't afford short-term thinking, man. You need to get past that and start
thinking long term. I think punk, for now, is that long term.
CARLOS
Yeah, but I think that will end up being a dead end. And I don't want to be stuck
there.
RAPHAEL
Good point. But I don't think we will. We just need to focus on the future.
CARLOS
And I think we need to focus on the here and now.
RAPHAEL
So that's it?
CARLOS
Yeah. For now.
RAPHAEL
Then I think we need to part ways. At least for a bit.
CARLOS
Fine. Is this breaking up?
RAPHAEL
Yeah. I guess so.
The waitress serves the food.
The guys eat in silence.
The guys come through the stage door. They are wearing nothing but white socks.
Hector yanks off his sock, tosses it down, and starts dressing.
HECTOR
Okay, never again. Ever.
Raphael slips on his pants.
RAPHAEL
Okay, that was fun. (beat) But yeah, man; never again. I think I got that out of my
system.
HECTOR
I am so in need of a shower right now.
CARLOS
I don't know what you're complaining about. They didn't toss beer cans at you.
RAPHAEL
At least they weren't full. Even though that would have been debatably better.
Carlos slips on his shirt.
CARLOS
Yeah. Definitely the last time we do this.
Fully dressed, the guys go back out to start breaking down their equipment.
INT. MED SHOT – CHEAP RESTAURANT – ENTRY DOOR
Carlos and Raphael enter smiling.
RAPHAEL
Okay, so that's one we DON'T tell our kids.
CARLOS
Definitely. I'm not sure if they would even believe us.
RAPHAEL
True.
They are seated.
They order sodas.
CARLOS
Oh man. We need to set some rules with Antonio about gigs we will and will not
accept from now on.
RAPHAEL
Oh, yes. At least I think we earned points in the “we're willing to do anything once” club.
CARLOS
Yeah, and I don't think he'll be doubting our sincerity any time soon.
RAPHAEL
You are aware that this brings up some interesting questions, then, right?
The sodas are delivered.
WAITRESS
You guys ready to order?
RAPHAEL
Just the #3, thanks. With fries.
CARLOS
The #4. With slaw. (looks at Raphael) Just trying something different...
WAITRESS
That's a #3 with fries and a number #4 with slaw. We'll have that right up, guys.
RAPHAEL/CARLOS
Thanks.
CARLOS
Such as?
RAPHAEL
Recording a demo. Marketing. Getting paid for downloads.
CARLOS
Well, we have enough for the demo, and we can do marketing ourselves. We
should definitely get Antonio started on the downloads.
RAPHAEL
And we need to decide on a direction. We can't do covers forever.
CARLOS
Yeah. We need to decide on a theme for the band.
RAPHAEL
Yep. I think that Hector will go with whatever we decide, as long as it's not too
wild.
CARLOS
Or rap. But, yeah. We need to decide where we want to go. I know you want to
keep it local, right?
RAPHAEL
For now, yeah. I think we need some more seasoning before we get any more
serious. Also, it allows us to build contacts we don't have right now. And we're
going to need them when we start selling CD's.
CARLOS
I think we can go national now. It's just a matter of getting more reviews. I think
that downloads is the way to go rather than CD's, by the way.
RAPHAEL
Okay, I can concede the dowloads versus CD's issue. Anyway to get a four-
month suspension on going national? We will need time to build the reviews, if
nothing else.
CARLOS
Good point. Okay. And any limitations on venues?
RAPHAEL
We'll need to deal with that as it comes up. But no more nudity. I don't want to
see Hector naked ever again.
They smile and clink glasses.
CARLOS
We should also limit the small bars we show up in.
RAPHAEL
And no bar mitvahs or birthday parties. Basically, if the audience is smaller than
two hundred.
CARLOS
Yeah. It's not that we're above them, but if we limit ourselves to the bigger events
that will make Antonio work harder for us.
RAPHAEL
Which brings us to the last problem. And the thorniest.
CARLOS
Yep. What kind of music do we play.
RAPHAEL
Let's play the elimination game. We do pretty much punk and rock. It's going to
come down to one of those. I'm punk, you're rock. Both of those are dependent
on the drums, so Hector likes them both. So convince me.
CARLOS
Rock is easier to sustain over the long term. It gives us more variety, as well as a
wider range of influences. If we're stuck, we can even look at country for
inspiration. It's also an easier sell. Overall, I think that rock is the way to go.
RAPHAEL
I think it's time to focus. If we keep to the more general, we may get distracted
too easily and whatever we're doing will dissipate quickly. It also keeps us sharp
and we can have more fun with it. If we don't keep it fun, we will lose interest
in it, and quickly. You're right about needing to keep it general, but you can turn
anything punk. The Ramones proved that.
CARLOS
I still think that we should go alternative rock.
RAPHAEL
It sucks. It's become corp-drivel and I think it needs something to burn through
it.
CARLOS
And punk is the answer?
RAPHAEL
Yeah.
CARLOS
I don't think so. We need to get serious and alternative rock is the best ---
RAPHAEL
---alternative? Yeah, but alternative to what? Aren't you tired of just doing the
alternative. Time to take a stand and do what's right, not what makes a buck.
CARLOS
Yeah, but college. And I want to move out of my folks home.
RAPHAEL
Some of us have responsibilities, you know. I need to start doing something
serious to pay some bills. And then there's Papa. They're going to force him to
retire soon, you know.
CARLOS
So we go the big money route. For now.
RAPHAEL
We can't afford short-term thinking, man. You need to get past that and start
thinking long term. I think punk, for now, is that long term.
CARLOS
Yeah, but I think that will end up being a dead end. And I don't want to be stuck
there.
RAPHAEL
Good point. But I don't think we will. We just need to focus on the future.
CARLOS
And I think we need to focus on the here and now.
RAPHAEL
So that's it?
CARLOS
Yeah. For now.
RAPHAEL
Then I think we need to part ways. At least for a bit.
CARLOS
Fine. Is this breaking up?
RAPHAEL
Yeah. I guess so.
The waitress serves the food.
The guys eat in silence.
Pages 53-58
INT. MED SHOT – GYMNASIUM – RAPHAEL
Raphael is working on his free throws.
Heliodora walks up to him and grabs the ball as it returns.
They start an informal game of horse, but without spelling anything out.
RAPHAEL
Last night was fun. You guys always perform like that?
HELIODORA
Not really. Last night was special.
RAPHAEL
In what way?
HELIODORA
Abby doesn't usually play that well. Almost as if she was inspired.
RAPHAEL
So was Carlos. Those two must really hate each other.
HELIODORA
Oh yeah. They have a rivalry that goes back to kindergarten. They fight like an
old married couple.
RAPHAEL
I would hate to be the person that attacks either one of them.
HELIODORA
That person would not be long for this world.
RAPHAEL
How long have you been playing keyboards? You rocked pretty good yourself
last night.
HELIODORA
A few years. I started on the accordion, but switched over a couple of years ago.
RAPHAEL
You, on the accordion?
HELIODORA
Yeah. Just like you and clarinet.
RAPHAEL
Hey! That's supposed to be buried! How did you find out about that?
HELIODORA
You can find anything on the internet if you look hard enough...
RAPHAEL
My life is so over.
Heliodora grabs the ball.
HELIODORA
I'll keep it a secret.
She invades his private space, pauses for a moment, and then shoves the ball into his hands.
She walks off.
HELIODORA
See you at the next concert.
He watches her disappear into the locker room.
RAPHAEL
I have really got to get more aggressive.
Raphael shoots and misses.
INT. CLOSE SHOT – ANTONIO'S OFFICE - ANTONIO
FX: Phone rings.
Antonio answers his phone.
ANTONIO
Antonio Lopez Amerigo Santana. I have the music if you have the moolah. (beat)
Yeah, I think I can cover your reception. (beat) What kind of special needs?
(beat) And this is for a wedding reception? (beat) It's short notice, and that's a
really special need. (beat) Yeah, I think I can cover it. (beat) I have a few bands
that would be more than willing to do that for you. I'll have an answer for you
within a few hours. (beat) I'll call you by four, how's that? (beat) Okay. Talk to
you then.
Antonio hangs up.
ANTONIO
Oh. This is going to be fun. And at a reception at that.
He starts going through his Rolodex.
EXT. CLOSE SHOT – PARKING LOT – CARLOS
Carlos is waiting next to Raphael's car.
FX: La Bamba Ring Tone
Carlos looks at his cell. He answers it.
CARLOS
What's up, Antonio? (beat) Okay. (beat) Sounds good. (beat) Yeah, we have
some punk in our repertoire. Raph made sure of that. (beat) Wait. What? (beat)
You're serious? (beat) Okay. I'll run it by the guys. (beat) What's it worth again?
(beat) Yeah. I'll get back to you in thirty.
Carlos puts his phone away.
CARLOS
Oh yeah. This is going to be an easy sell.
Hector and Raphael show up, joking.
Carlos approaches them.
CARLOS
Antonio called.
HECTOR
New gig?
RAPHAEL
Why so nervous? How bad is the gig.
CARLOS
You know how you want to do a wedding right?
RAPHAEL
Right....
CARLOS
And you like punk music, right?
RAPHAEL
Sure.
The camera swings behind Carlos and backs off.
Raphael facepalms. Hector's eyes bug out.
The camera comes back in and centers back on the group.
Raphael is giggling. Hector is flustered.
HECTOR
We can't do that!
RAPHAEL
Hey, at least you're behind your kit. We'll only have a guitar!
HECTOR
Still. What if someone takes pictures?
RAPHAEL
Hey, I have no hang up on this one.
CARLOS
I'm willing to do it if you guys are. I'm confident my guitar will be enough.
RAPHAEL
Well, for you, sure. Me, not so much.
HECTOR
You guys are going to get me to do this no matter what, huh?
RAPHAEL
Yeah. Pretty much. You want a logic-based argument or a violence-based
argument?
CARLOS
Logic-based argument?
RAPHAEL
Hey, I've been diversifying.
HECTOR
Okay, I'll bite. What's the logic-based argument?
RAPHAEL
Do it or you can logically expect me to hit you.
HECTOR
That sounds more like the violence-based one.
RAPHAEL
Nah. That one is when I just hit you until you concede that argument is a strong
one. You don't have the option of being hit or not.
HECTOR
Strangely, I see the difference.
RAPHAEL
I knew you would see that.
HECTOR
Okay, I'll do it. I'm going to hate doing it, but we're only doing this once. Period.
CARLOS
I have no problem with that.
RAPHAEL
Call the man, already!
Carlos pulls out his cell and hits a button.
CARLOS
Hey, Antonio! (beat) Yeah, we'll do it. (beat) Yes, you will. E-mail me the
details.
Raphael starts giggling.
RAPHAEL
And you kept saying gym was worthless.
Hector glares at Raphael as he gets into the car.
INT. MED SHOT – DRESSING ROOM - GUYS
TAND RASTER, a punk rocker in full leathers, is waiting for the guys.
The guys walk in. Raphael and Carlos are carrying their guitars.
TAND
Thanks for doing this on such short notice. (beat) You all are over eighteen,
right?
Hector is just glaring. Raphael just grins at his discomfort,
CARLOS
Yep.
TAND
Cool. And you're already set up. Through that door is the stage. All you need to
do is put on these socks and we're good.
HECTOR
Why the socks?
TAND
The groom's favorite band used to do receptions wearing nothing but socks. It's
stupid, but we agreed to it. I am so never making wedding plans while drunk
ever again.
He hands Carlos a bag.
TAND
I've got to go check on something. You guys get dressed and I'll see you out
there, okay?
HECTOR
Sure.
Tand leaves.
Carlos reaches in and pulls out three white socks.
CARLOS
Gentlemen, pick your weapons.
Raphael and Hector grab a sock and start stripping.
INT. MED SHOT – RECEPTION HALL – EQUIPMENT
The guys walk in, apparently naked. Hector quickly hides behind his drums, and Carlos and Raphael stride forward to front.
CARLOS
Hector, if you would be so kind.
HECTOR
Anything to start this so we can get this over.
The guys start playing. At no time during the song do the guitars leave their respective owners' crotches.
At the end of the song, the camera comes up behind the guys, showing their bare bottoms.
Raphael is working on his free throws.
Heliodora walks up to him and grabs the ball as it returns.
They start an informal game of horse, but without spelling anything out.
RAPHAEL
Last night was fun. You guys always perform like that?
HELIODORA
Not really. Last night was special.
RAPHAEL
In what way?
HELIODORA
Abby doesn't usually play that well. Almost as if she was inspired.
RAPHAEL
So was Carlos. Those two must really hate each other.
HELIODORA
Oh yeah. They have a rivalry that goes back to kindergarten. They fight like an
old married couple.
RAPHAEL
I would hate to be the person that attacks either one of them.
HELIODORA
That person would not be long for this world.
RAPHAEL
How long have you been playing keyboards? You rocked pretty good yourself
last night.
HELIODORA
A few years. I started on the accordion, but switched over a couple of years ago.
RAPHAEL
You, on the accordion?
HELIODORA
Yeah. Just like you and clarinet.
RAPHAEL
Hey! That's supposed to be buried! How did you find out about that?
HELIODORA
You can find anything on the internet if you look hard enough...
RAPHAEL
My life is so over.
Heliodora grabs the ball.
HELIODORA
I'll keep it a secret.
She invades his private space, pauses for a moment, and then shoves the ball into his hands.
She walks off.
HELIODORA
See you at the next concert.
He watches her disappear into the locker room.
RAPHAEL
I have really got to get more aggressive.
Raphael shoots and misses.
INT. CLOSE SHOT – ANTONIO'S OFFICE - ANTONIO
FX: Phone rings.
Antonio answers his phone.
ANTONIO
Antonio Lopez Amerigo Santana. I have the music if you have the moolah. (beat)
Yeah, I think I can cover your reception. (beat) What kind of special needs?
(beat) And this is for a wedding reception? (beat) It's short notice, and that's a
really special need. (beat) Yeah, I think I can cover it. (beat) I have a few bands
that would be more than willing to do that for you. I'll have an answer for you
within a few hours. (beat) I'll call you by four, how's that? (beat) Okay. Talk to
you then.
Antonio hangs up.
ANTONIO
Oh. This is going to be fun. And at a reception at that.
He starts going through his Rolodex.
EXT. CLOSE SHOT – PARKING LOT – CARLOS
Carlos is waiting next to Raphael's car.
FX: La Bamba Ring Tone
Carlos looks at his cell. He answers it.
CARLOS
What's up, Antonio? (beat) Okay. (beat) Sounds good. (beat) Yeah, we have
some punk in our repertoire. Raph made sure of that. (beat) Wait. What? (beat)
You're serious? (beat) Okay. I'll run it by the guys. (beat) What's it worth again?
(beat) Yeah. I'll get back to you in thirty.
Carlos puts his phone away.
CARLOS
Oh yeah. This is going to be an easy sell.
Hector and Raphael show up, joking.
Carlos approaches them.
CARLOS
Antonio called.
HECTOR
New gig?
RAPHAEL
Why so nervous? How bad is the gig.
CARLOS
You know how you want to do a wedding right?
RAPHAEL
Right....
CARLOS
And you like punk music, right?
RAPHAEL
Sure.
The camera swings behind Carlos and backs off.
Raphael facepalms. Hector's eyes bug out.
The camera comes back in and centers back on the group.
Raphael is giggling. Hector is flustered.
HECTOR
We can't do that!
RAPHAEL
Hey, at least you're behind your kit. We'll only have a guitar!
HECTOR
Still. What if someone takes pictures?
RAPHAEL
Hey, I have no hang up on this one.
CARLOS
I'm willing to do it if you guys are. I'm confident my guitar will be enough.
RAPHAEL
Well, for you, sure. Me, not so much.
HECTOR
You guys are going to get me to do this no matter what, huh?
RAPHAEL
Yeah. Pretty much. You want a logic-based argument or a violence-based
argument?
CARLOS
Logic-based argument?
RAPHAEL
Hey, I've been diversifying.
HECTOR
Okay, I'll bite. What's the logic-based argument?
RAPHAEL
Do it or you can logically expect me to hit you.
HECTOR
That sounds more like the violence-based one.
RAPHAEL
Nah. That one is when I just hit you until you concede that argument is a strong
one. You don't have the option of being hit or not.
HECTOR
Strangely, I see the difference.
RAPHAEL
I knew you would see that.
HECTOR
Okay, I'll do it. I'm going to hate doing it, but we're only doing this once. Period.
CARLOS
I have no problem with that.
RAPHAEL
Call the man, already!
Carlos pulls out his cell and hits a button.
CARLOS
Hey, Antonio! (beat) Yeah, we'll do it. (beat) Yes, you will. E-mail me the
details.
Raphael starts giggling.
RAPHAEL
And you kept saying gym was worthless.
Hector glares at Raphael as he gets into the car.
INT. MED SHOT – DRESSING ROOM - GUYS
TAND RASTER, a punk rocker in full leathers, is waiting for the guys.
The guys walk in. Raphael and Carlos are carrying their guitars.
TAND
Thanks for doing this on such short notice. (beat) You all are over eighteen,
right?
Hector is just glaring. Raphael just grins at his discomfort,
CARLOS
Yep.
TAND
Cool. And you're already set up. Through that door is the stage. All you need to
do is put on these socks and we're good.
HECTOR
Why the socks?
TAND
The groom's favorite band used to do receptions wearing nothing but socks. It's
stupid, but we agreed to it. I am so never making wedding plans while drunk
ever again.
He hands Carlos a bag.
TAND
I've got to go check on something. You guys get dressed and I'll see you out
there, okay?
HECTOR
Sure.
Tand leaves.
Carlos reaches in and pulls out three white socks.
CARLOS
Gentlemen, pick your weapons.
Raphael and Hector grab a sock and start stripping.
INT. MED SHOT – RECEPTION HALL – EQUIPMENT
The guys walk in, apparently naked. Hector quickly hides behind his drums, and Carlos and Raphael stride forward to front.
CARLOS
Hector, if you would be so kind.
HECTOR
Anything to start this so we can get this over.
The guys start playing. At no time during the song do the guitars leave their respective owners' crotches.
At the end of the song, the camera comes up behind the guys, showing their bare bottoms.
Pages 50-52
INT. MED SHOT – GYMNASIUM – RAPHAEL
Raphael is working on his free throws.
Heliodora walks up to him and grabs the ball as it returns.
They start an informal game of horse, but without spelling anything out.
RAPHAEL
Last night was fun. You guys always perform like that?
HELIODORA
Not really. Last night was special.
RAPHAEL
In what way?
HELIODORA
Abby doesn't usually play that well. Almost as if she was inspired.
RAPHAEL
So was Carlos. Those two must really hate each other.
HELIODORA
Oh yeah. They have a rivalry that goes back to kindergarten. They fight like an
old married couple.
RAPHAEL
I would hate to be the person that attacks either one of them.
HELIODORA
That person would not be long for this world.
RAPHAEL
How long have you been playing keyboards? You rocked pretty good yourself
last night.
HELIODORA
A few years. I started on the accordion, but switched over a couple of years ago.
RAPHAEL
You, on the accordion?
HELIODORA
Yeah. Just like you and clarinet.
RAPHAEL
Hey! That's supposed to be buried! How did you find out about that?
HELIODORA
You can find anything on the internet if you look hard enough...
RAPHAEL
My life is so over.
Heliodora grabs the ball.
HELIODORA
I'll keep it a secret.
She invades his private space, pauses for a moment, and then shoves the ball into his hands.
She walks off.
HELIODORA
See you at the next concert.
He watches her disappear into the locker room.
RAPHAEL
I have really got to get more aggressive.
Raphael shoots and misses.
INT. CLOSE SHOT – ANTONIO'S OFFICE - ANTONIO
FX: Phone rings.
Antonio answers his phone.
ANTONIO
Antonio Lopez Amerigo Santana. I have the music if you have the moolah. (beat)
Yeah, I think I can cover your reception. (beat) What kind of special needs?
(beat) And this is for a wedding reception? (beat) It's short notice, and that's a
really special need. (beat) Yeah, I think I can cover it. (beat) I have a few bands
that would be more than willing to do that for you. I'll have an answer for you
within a few hours. (beat) I'll call you by four, how's that? (beat) Okay. Talk to
you then.
Antonio hangs up.
ANTONIO
Oh. This is going to be fun. And at a reception at that.
He starts going through his Rolodex.
Raphael is working on his free throws.
Heliodora walks up to him and grabs the ball as it returns.
They start an informal game of horse, but without spelling anything out.
RAPHAEL
Last night was fun. You guys always perform like that?
HELIODORA
Not really. Last night was special.
RAPHAEL
In what way?
HELIODORA
Abby doesn't usually play that well. Almost as if she was inspired.
RAPHAEL
So was Carlos. Those two must really hate each other.
HELIODORA
Oh yeah. They have a rivalry that goes back to kindergarten. They fight like an
old married couple.
RAPHAEL
I would hate to be the person that attacks either one of them.
HELIODORA
That person would not be long for this world.
RAPHAEL
How long have you been playing keyboards? You rocked pretty good yourself
last night.
HELIODORA
A few years. I started on the accordion, but switched over a couple of years ago.
RAPHAEL
You, on the accordion?
HELIODORA
Yeah. Just like you and clarinet.
RAPHAEL
Hey! That's supposed to be buried! How did you find out about that?
HELIODORA
You can find anything on the internet if you look hard enough...
RAPHAEL
My life is so over.
Heliodora grabs the ball.
HELIODORA
I'll keep it a secret.
She invades his private space, pauses for a moment, and then shoves the ball into his hands.
She walks off.
HELIODORA
See you at the next concert.
He watches her disappear into the locker room.
RAPHAEL
I have really got to get more aggressive.
Raphael shoots and misses.
INT. CLOSE SHOT – ANTONIO'S OFFICE - ANTONIO
FX: Phone rings.
Antonio answers his phone.
ANTONIO
Antonio Lopez Amerigo Santana. I have the music if you have the moolah. (beat)
Yeah, I think I can cover your reception. (beat) What kind of special needs?
(beat) And this is for a wedding reception? (beat) It's short notice, and that's a
really special need. (beat) Yeah, I think I can cover it. (beat) I have a few bands
that would be more than willing to do that for you. I'll have an answer for you
within a few hours. (beat) I'll call you by four, how's that? (beat) Okay. Talk to
you then.
Antonio hangs up.
ANTONIO
Oh. This is going to be fun. And at a reception at that.
He starts going through his Rolodex.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Pages 46-49
SAME SCENE, TWO HOURS LATER
INT. MED SHOT – THE GALLEON – GUYS
The Galleon is empty. Both bands are cleaning up.
Both drummers are absent.
CARLOS
Weird. Is it just me or Hector been in the bathroom longer than normal?
HECTOR
Yeah. And his kit hasn't been touched. He usually has it down already.
HELIODORA
Hey, Abby! Have you seen Helen recently?
ABIGAIL
She went to the bathroom a while ago. If she isn't back soon, we need to track
her down. I'm not putting her drums up.
HELIODORA
I don't blame you. She is laid back as long as you don't mess with her drums.
ABIGAIL
At least we should beat the guys out.
INT. CLOSE SHOT – STORE ROOM – HELEN & HECTOR
Helen and Hector are embracing and tearing off their clothes.
Helen gets his pants off. Hector gets her shirt off.
Hector stops for just a moment and reaches for his wallet.
He produces a condom and shows her. She grabs it and smiles.
She bends down, pulls his underwear down, and pushes him against a wall.
She stands up, rips open the condom, and put it on him.
He launches himself at her and the fall down unto the floor.
They make quick love and then embrace when they are finished.
They put their clothes back on.
HECTOR
Would you be offended if I called you sometime?
HELEN
I would be more offended if you didn't.
She grabs a marker from one of the bins and opens it up.
She grabs his shirt and lifts it. She writes down her number.
HECTOR
Thanks!
HELEN
Thank you!
They leave at the same time.
Hector pulls up.
HELEN
What are you doing?
HECTOR
We probably shouldn't show up at the same time.
HELEN
Good point.
HECTOR
But I will call you.
She presses him against the door and embraces him.
HELEN
You had better.
He gulps.
She leaves.
He smiles. Then he punches a wall.
HECTOR
Great. I lose my virginity and I can't tell anyone. Ras.
He then leaves.
INT. MED SHOT – THE GALLEON – GUYS
Carlos and Raphael are almost finished. The other girls are gone. Helen is disassembling her kit.
Hector comes rushing in.
HECTOR
Sorry. I got lost.
Raphael and Carlos look at each other. They shrug.
CARLOS
Big place.
RAPHAEL
It happens.
CARLOS
Yeah. It's not like you have groupies or something.
HECTOR
Yeah.
They take a load out.
Helen winks at Hector.
He smiles and disappears under his drums.
INT. MED SHOT – THE GALLEON – GUYS
The Galleon is empty. Both bands are cleaning up.
Both drummers are absent.
CARLOS
Weird. Is it just me or Hector been in the bathroom longer than normal?
HECTOR
Yeah. And his kit hasn't been touched. He usually has it down already.
HELIODORA
Hey, Abby! Have you seen Helen recently?
ABIGAIL
She went to the bathroom a while ago. If she isn't back soon, we need to track
her down. I'm not putting her drums up.
HELIODORA
I don't blame you. She is laid back as long as you don't mess with her drums.
ABIGAIL
At least we should beat the guys out.
INT. CLOSE SHOT – STORE ROOM – HELEN & HECTOR
Helen and Hector are embracing and tearing off their clothes.
Helen gets his pants off. Hector gets her shirt off.
Hector stops for just a moment and reaches for his wallet.
He produces a condom and shows her. She grabs it and smiles.
She bends down, pulls his underwear down, and pushes him against a wall.
She stands up, rips open the condom, and put it on him.
He launches himself at her and the fall down unto the floor.
They make quick love and then embrace when they are finished.
They put their clothes back on.
HECTOR
Would you be offended if I called you sometime?
HELEN
I would be more offended if you didn't.
She grabs a marker from one of the bins and opens it up.
She grabs his shirt and lifts it. She writes down her number.
HECTOR
Thanks!
HELEN
Thank you!
They leave at the same time.
Hector pulls up.
HELEN
What are you doing?
HECTOR
We probably shouldn't show up at the same time.
HELEN
Good point.
HECTOR
But I will call you.
She presses him against the door and embraces him.
HELEN
You had better.
He gulps.
She leaves.
He smiles. Then he punches a wall.
HECTOR
Great. I lose my virginity and I can't tell anyone. Ras.
He then leaves.
INT. MED SHOT – THE GALLEON – GUYS
Carlos and Raphael are almost finished. The other girls are gone. Helen is disassembling her kit.
Hector comes rushing in.
HECTOR
Sorry. I got lost.
Raphael and Carlos look at each other. They shrug.
CARLOS
Big place.
RAPHAEL
It happens.
CARLOS
Yeah. It's not like you have groupies or something.
HECTOR
Yeah.
They take a load out.
Helen winks at Hector.
He smiles and disappears under his drums.
Pages 41-45
INT. LONG SHOT – THE GALLEON – GUYS
The guys are looking out on The Galleon. It's deserted, but it's almost as big as the school auditorium.
CARLOS
This is huge.
RAPHAEL
Yeah. I would like to see what the sound system on this place looks like.
Hector is setting up.
HECTOR
Yeah. But,and I hate to be the wet blanket, we had better set up. (beat) Or we'll
have to deal with her ladyship.
Carlos shudders.
CARLOS
It's fine to be a wet blanket if we don't need to deal with her.
Hector and Raphael smile.
SAME SCENE, A FEW HOURS LATER
The Galleon is full. People are getting served, and the crowd is just getting ready for the evening.
The stage has two kits on it, both hidden by curtains.
The guys are just backstage.
CARLOS
I wonder how many of these things we will do until the jitters are not a problem.
RAPHAEL
Well, it does explain why so many rockers do drugs.
Carlos and Raphael look at Hector.
HECTOR
I only did that once, guys. Sheesh.
Abigail, Heliodora, and HELENA PEREZ MONTEGO, a girl in a tank top to show off her developed biceps, walk up to the guys.
Helena sees Hector and looks him up and down.
HELENA
So, that;s my competition. Nice.
Hector stands a little more erect.
HECTOR
You're not so bad yourself.
Raphael and Carlos do a synchronized face palm.
Abigail steps up.
ABIGAIL
Okay. So luckily the opening act doesn't need to be that spectacular. You guys
will do great in that regard. Just don't trip over the wire and you'll do okay.
The guys look at each other.
CARLOS
Great motivational speech, Abby.
Abigail bristles.
RAPHAEL
Guess that's our cue.
The guys head out on stage as the curtain opens.
The crowd applauds, especially as the band starts up.
SAME SCENE, ANOTHER HOUR LATER
The girls are backstage watching the crowd.
HELIODORA
They're doing pretty good.
ABIGAIL
Too good. That's supposed to be our crowd. Not theirs. They are just supposed to
be warming up the crowd, not making fans.
Helen is watching Hector, who is sweating up a storm.
HELEN
I'm all for testing out that drummer's skill. (beat) I have an idea if you're
interested.
ABIGAIL
Maybe.
HELEN
Think that we could take them in a battle of the bands?
Heliodora sidles up to Abigail.
HELIDORA
I think we could take them. And it would put us up on the stage.
Abigail thinks about it for a moment.
ABIGAIL
Fine. Let's take those losers.
Abigail walks off to find the stage manager.
The other two walk over to their instruments.
Abigail walks over to the other band.
ABIGAIL
Okay, Carlos. Let's see how good you guys are.
The guys hold off for a moment.
Abigail picks up her axe and let's off with a riff.
Helen picks up the beat, combining with Abigail's machine gun playing.
Heliodora smiles and her fingers start flying across her keyboard.
Hector times it for a beats, and then joins in.
Helen smiles.
Carlos and Raphael look at each other and shrug. They begin to match Abigail.
Abigail notices this and picks up the pace.
Heliodora picks it up, and adds an additional flurry of notes.
The guys pace Abigail, and then add an additional flourish themselves.
Hector keeps the beat and smiles at Helen.
Helen is starting to like this.
Abigail crosses over to Carlos.
Carlos moves to intercept her.
Raphael is grooving to his own beat, while matching Carlos.
Heliodora is just having fun on the keyboards while trying to keep up with Abigail.
Hector and Helen are smiling like wolves.
Carlos and Abigail are on top of another, dueling like fencers with their electric guitars.
Raphael comes out of his trance and motions for Heliodora to stop.
She does, and spreads the word to Helen, who does the same for Hector.
The only sound is the duel between Carlos and Abigail. The audience is absolutely still.
Raphael takes the microphone.
RAPHAEL
Introducing The Golden Foxes. Helen Montego on drums, Heliodora Gomez on
keyboards, and Abigail Chavez on guitar.
The audience applauds, standing.
Abigail and Carlos stop.
ABIGAIL
I will kick you butt, Carlos.
CARLOS
Just keep in mind that I give as good as I get.
ABIGAIL
I wouldn't have it any other way.
They both smile and turn towards their respective bands.
Hector gives Helen a drummer's salute. Helen returns it.
RAPHAEL
We live in their capable hands. GOOD NIGHT!
Helen jumps off her seat and crosses to grab Hector.
HELEN
I'd better see you after the show.
Helen kisses Hector deep and long.
She returns to her drums and the girls start their set.
Hector has to be pushed off-stage by the guys.
The guys are looking out on The Galleon. It's deserted, but it's almost as big as the school auditorium.
CARLOS
This is huge.
RAPHAEL
Yeah. I would like to see what the sound system on this place looks like.
Hector is setting up.
HECTOR
Yeah. But,and I hate to be the wet blanket, we had better set up. (beat) Or we'll
have to deal with her ladyship.
Carlos shudders.
CARLOS
It's fine to be a wet blanket if we don't need to deal with her.
Hector and Raphael smile.
SAME SCENE, A FEW HOURS LATER
The Galleon is full. People are getting served, and the crowd is just getting ready for the evening.
The stage has two kits on it, both hidden by curtains.
The guys are just backstage.
CARLOS
I wonder how many of these things we will do until the jitters are not a problem.
RAPHAEL
Well, it does explain why so many rockers do drugs.
Carlos and Raphael look at Hector.
HECTOR
I only did that once, guys. Sheesh.
Abigail, Heliodora, and HELENA PEREZ MONTEGO, a girl in a tank top to show off her developed biceps, walk up to the guys.
Helena sees Hector and looks him up and down.
HELENA
So, that;s my competition. Nice.
Hector stands a little more erect.
HECTOR
You're not so bad yourself.
Raphael and Carlos do a synchronized face palm.
Abigail steps up.
ABIGAIL
Okay. So luckily the opening act doesn't need to be that spectacular. You guys
will do great in that regard. Just don't trip over the wire and you'll do okay.
The guys look at each other.
CARLOS
Great motivational speech, Abby.
Abigail bristles.
RAPHAEL
Guess that's our cue.
The guys head out on stage as the curtain opens.
The crowd applauds, especially as the band starts up.
SAME SCENE, ANOTHER HOUR LATER
The girls are backstage watching the crowd.
HELIODORA
They're doing pretty good.
ABIGAIL
Too good. That's supposed to be our crowd. Not theirs. They are just supposed to
be warming up the crowd, not making fans.
Helen is watching Hector, who is sweating up a storm.
HELEN
I'm all for testing out that drummer's skill. (beat) I have an idea if you're
interested.
ABIGAIL
Maybe.
HELEN
Think that we could take them in a battle of the bands?
Heliodora sidles up to Abigail.
HELIDORA
I think we could take them. And it would put us up on the stage.
Abigail thinks about it for a moment.
ABIGAIL
Fine. Let's take those losers.
Abigail walks off to find the stage manager.
The other two walk over to their instruments.
Abigail walks over to the other band.
ABIGAIL
Okay, Carlos. Let's see how good you guys are.
The guys hold off for a moment.
Abigail picks up her axe and let's off with a riff.
Helen picks up the beat, combining with Abigail's machine gun playing.
Heliodora smiles and her fingers start flying across her keyboard.
Hector times it for a beats, and then joins in.
Helen smiles.
Carlos and Raphael look at each other and shrug. They begin to match Abigail.
Abigail notices this and picks up the pace.
Heliodora picks it up, and adds an additional flurry of notes.
The guys pace Abigail, and then add an additional flourish themselves.
Hector keeps the beat and smiles at Helen.
Helen is starting to like this.
Abigail crosses over to Carlos.
Carlos moves to intercept her.
Raphael is grooving to his own beat, while matching Carlos.
Heliodora is just having fun on the keyboards while trying to keep up with Abigail.
Hector and Helen are smiling like wolves.
Carlos and Abigail are on top of another, dueling like fencers with their electric guitars.
Raphael comes out of his trance and motions for Heliodora to stop.
She does, and spreads the word to Helen, who does the same for Hector.
The only sound is the duel between Carlos and Abigail. The audience is absolutely still.
Raphael takes the microphone.
RAPHAEL
Introducing The Golden Foxes. Helen Montego on drums, Heliodora Gomez on
keyboards, and Abigail Chavez on guitar.
The audience applauds, standing.
Abigail and Carlos stop.
ABIGAIL
I will kick you butt, Carlos.
CARLOS
Just keep in mind that I give as good as I get.
ABIGAIL
I wouldn't have it any other way.
They both smile and turn towards their respective bands.
Hector gives Helen a drummer's salute. Helen returns it.
RAPHAEL
We live in their capable hands. GOOD NIGHT!
Helen jumps off her seat and crosses to grab Hector.
HELEN
I'd better see you after the show.
Helen kisses Hector deep and long.
She returns to her drums and the girls start their set.
Hector has to be pushed off-stage by the guys.
Pages 38-40
INT. LONG SHOT – CLASSROOM – ABIGAIL
Abigail is sitting at her desk, ticked off at something.
Carlos walks in.
Abigail glares at him.
Carlos ignores her as he sits down.
Abigail walks over to him.
ABIGAIL
I heard that you will be opening for the Golden Foxes.
Carlos virtually ignores her.
CARLOS
Yeah. Some girl band. Should be fun. Outfits are just skimpy enough.
Abigail kneels down so that she is eye-level with Carlos.
ABIGAIL
Your pitiful garage band will not mess things up for my band.
CARLOS
We don't plan to. If anything, your sucking would look bad on us.
She is confused. It only lasts a few seconds.
ABIGAIL
So we are agreed that you won't suck any more than you need to, correct?
CARLOS
Meh. I guess.
Abigail goes back to her seat and punches the books. Hard.
Carlos shudders just a bit.
Dolores comes up behind him.
DOLORES
So we taking bets on you three surviving the night?
CARLOS
Hi, Dolores. And I wouldn't take that bet. (beat) I might lose.
Dolores smiles.
DOLORES
Just remember that you guys did great at the dance, okay?
Dolores walks over to her normal seat.
CARLOS
(to himself)
Yeah, but that was just a school dance.
He pulls out his books.
EXT. LONG SHOT – BASKETBALL COURT – RAPHAEL
Raphael is schooling some other boys.
HELIODORA TALEIA VEGA GOMEZ, a gorgeous teenage girl even gym clothes, whistles.
The boys clear a space for her.
She walks up to Raphael.
HELIODORA
I'm next.
Raphael looks her over.
RAPHAEL
If you're so sure.
He throws her the ball.
RAPHAEL
Take it out.
The two start up a game of basketball. Whereas the other games were serious, this is practically a grudge match between two seasoned warriors. Each makes point after point, keeping the game tied.
There is a small break in the action as Heliodora takes out the ball.
HELIODORA
Do you play guitar like you do basketball?
RAPHAEL
I don't play. I win.
Heliodora smiles.
HELIODORA
Neither do I.
She sinks the ball.
Raphael smiles as she walks away.
INT. MED SHOT – CAFETERIA – GUYS
The guys are eating.
CARLOS
Abigail gets scarier every year. Next year, we'll be able to run the haunted house
with just one room with her picture. Kids will run just hearing about it.
The other two smile.
HECTOR
She just wants to succeed. It's been a rough year for her family
RAPHAEL
Yeah. Her dad is just returning to work, and her mom...I hope that woman is out
of the hospital soon.
CARLOS
That just makes her scarier. Like she's possessed or something.
HECTOR
Well, the Golden Foxes are looking to go national within the year. They just need
some local concerts to get noticed. They're already doing pretty well online.
RAPHAEL
And with Heliodora on keyboards they should do pretty good. I haven't been beat
by a girl in a long time, but I can live with how she did it.
The other two smile at him.
HECTOR
I'm just sort of glad that their drummer doesn't go to this school. She's scary in
her own right.
CARLOS
All drummers are, man, all drummers are.
HECTOR
Hey!
The conversation deteriorates into talk about girls.
Abigail is sitting at her desk, ticked off at something.
Carlos walks in.
Abigail glares at him.
Carlos ignores her as he sits down.
Abigail walks over to him.
ABIGAIL
I heard that you will be opening for the Golden Foxes.
Carlos virtually ignores her.
CARLOS
Yeah. Some girl band. Should be fun. Outfits are just skimpy enough.
Abigail kneels down so that she is eye-level with Carlos.
ABIGAIL
Your pitiful garage band will not mess things up for my band.
CARLOS
We don't plan to. If anything, your sucking would look bad on us.
She is confused. It only lasts a few seconds.
ABIGAIL
So we are agreed that you won't suck any more than you need to, correct?
CARLOS
Meh. I guess.
Abigail goes back to her seat and punches the books. Hard.
Carlos shudders just a bit.
Dolores comes up behind him.
DOLORES
So we taking bets on you three surviving the night?
CARLOS
Hi, Dolores. And I wouldn't take that bet. (beat) I might lose.
Dolores smiles.
DOLORES
Just remember that you guys did great at the dance, okay?
Dolores walks over to her normal seat.
CARLOS
(to himself)
Yeah, but that was just a school dance.
He pulls out his books.
EXT. LONG SHOT – BASKETBALL COURT – RAPHAEL
Raphael is schooling some other boys.
HELIODORA TALEIA VEGA GOMEZ, a gorgeous teenage girl even gym clothes, whistles.
The boys clear a space for her.
She walks up to Raphael.
HELIODORA
I'm next.
Raphael looks her over.
RAPHAEL
If you're so sure.
He throws her the ball.
RAPHAEL
Take it out.
The two start up a game of basketball. Whereas the other games were serious, this is practically a grudge match between two seasoned warriors. Each makes point after point, keeping the game tied.
There is a small break in the action as Heliodora takes out the ball.
HELIODORA
Do you play guitar like you do basketball?
RAPHAEL
I don't play. I win.
Heliodora smiles.
HELIODORA
Neither do I.
She sinks the ball.
Raphael smiles as she walks away.
INT. MED SHOT – CAFETERIA – GUYS
The guys are eating.
CARLOS
Abigail gets scarier every year. Next year, we'll be able to run the haunted house
with just one room with her picture. Kids will run just hearing about it.
The other two smile.
HECTOR
She just wants to succeed. It's been a rough year for her family
RAPHAEL
Yeah. Her dad is just returning to work, and her mom...I hope that woman is out
of the hospital soon.
CARLOS
That just makes her scarier. Like she's possessed or something.
HECTOR
Well, the Golden Foxes are looking to go national within the year. They just need
some local concerts to get noticed. They're already doing pretty well online.
RAPHAEL
And with Heliodora on keyboards they should do pretty good. I haven't been beat
by a girl in a long time, but I can live with how she did it.
The other two smile at him.
HECTOR
I'm just sort of glad that their drummer doesn't go to this school. She's scary in
her own right.
CARLOS
All drummers are, man, all drummers are.
HECTOR
Hey!
The conversation deteriorates into talk about girls.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Pages 33-37
EXT. MED SHOT – BACK OF STUMBLE INN – GUYS
The guys are finishing putting their gear up.
The bar owner comes out carrying a six-pack.
BAR OWNER
Not bad, guys. You definitely earned this. The fiddle was a nice touch.
RAPHAEL
My grandmother made me learn it. Figured it would bring me some luck.
BAR OWNER
Still, some nice playing.
He hands Carlos an envelope and the six-pack and walks back into the bar.
BAR OWNER
This could be a regular gig if you wanted it.
The bar owner disappears inside.
The guys look at each other, surprised.
They then break up laughing.
CARLOS
Yeah, like that was going to happen.
Carlos hands Raphael the envelope. Raphael looks inside the envelope.
RAPHAEL
I could learn to like this.
Raphael hands the checks to Hector. Hector puts it in his pocket.
Carlos hands out the beers.
Hector and Raphael take one and open it. They clink them together.
CARLOS
To our future success!
They down the beers. Hector has some problems, but still finishes the beer.
They get into the car.
Hector leaves the car quickly.
He throws up behind a garbage can.
INT MED SHOT – ANTONIO'S OFFICE – ANTONIO – DAY
Antonio is busy handling phones. His office is spartan; it has a desk with a computer and chair, four table chairs against the wall, and an ugly couch just outside the main office.
The guys rush in, almost stumbling over each other.
Antonio looks up at the clamor.
ANTONIO
So, you liked it?
They pull up chairs.
CARLOS
It was interesting.
RAPHAEL
I'm sure the place was in violation of a number of laws. And then there's the
health code violations.
ANTONIO
But you did get paid?
HECTOR
Most of my payment has left my body.
Antonio's eyebrow goes up.
Carlos hands over an envelope.
CARLOS
Yeah. Here's your cut.
ANTONIO
Good. I think that this is the beginning of a beautiful relationship.
RAFAEL
Anything else going on? Preferably something a little less country, a little more
rock and roll?
Antonio starts looking at his computer.
ANTONIO
Depends. Think you could open for a band?
CARLOS
Depends on the band.
ANTONIO
A girl band. Definitely rock.
RAFAEL
Sounds good. In a more reputable place, I hope.
ANTONIO
Definitely. (beat) It's a larger bar, but one that has also acts as a launch pad for
bands. (beat) Not as interesting as the last one.
HECTOR
Good. I'm still washing off part of that last place.
Antonio hits a few keys.
Something prints out.
Antonio gets up, grabs the print-out, and walks back to the guys.
ANTONIO
Here you go. Have fun.
RAPHAEL
Nice. It's a great place!
HECTOR
You been there?
He grins at Hector.
RAPHAEL
Maybe.
Hector returns the smile.
Carlos looks like he has been shot.
CARLOS
Not her. Anyone but not her. Not Abigail Castillo Chavez.
HECTOR
Who is she?
CARLOS
The devil.
RAPHAEL
Oh. She's that girl that---
CARLOS
---seems to haunt me wherever I go.
ANTONIO
Will that pose a problem?
HECTOR
No,sir. We'll work past it.
ANTONIO
Good. These gigs are so hard to find.
The guys run from the office.
The guys are finishing putting their gear up.
The bar owner comes out carrying a six-pack.
BAR OWNER
Not bad, guys. You definitely earned this. The fiddle was a nice touch.
RAPHAEL
My grandmother made me learn it. Figured it would bring me some luck.
BAR OWNER
Still, some nice playing.
He hands Carlos an envelope and the six-pack and walks back into the bar.
BAR OWNER
This could be a regular gig if you wanted it.
The bar owner disappears inside.
The guys look at each other, surprised.
They then break up laughing.
CARLOS
Yeah, like that was going to happen.
Carlos hands Raphael the envelope. Raphael looks inside the envelope.
RAPHAEL
I could learn to like this.
Raphael hands the checks to Hector. Hector puts it in his pocket.
Carlos hands out the beers.
Hector and Raphael take one and open it. They clink them together.
CARLOS
To our future success!
They down the beers. Hector has some problems, but still finishes the beer.
They get into the car.
Hector leaves the car quickly.
He throws up behind a garbage can.
INT MED SHOT – ANTONIO'S OFFICE – ANTONIO – DAY
Antonio is busy handling phones. His office is spartan; it has a desk with a computer and chair, four table chairs against the wall, and an ugly couch just outside the main office.
The guys rush in, almost stumbling over each other.
Antonio looks up at the clamor.
ANTONIO
So, you liked it?
They pull up chairs.
CARLOS
It was interesting.
RAPHAEL
I'm sure the place was in violation of a number of laws. And then there's the
health code violations.
ANTONIO
But you did get paid?
HECTOR
Most of my payment has left my body.
Antonio's eyebrow goes up.
Carlos hands over an envelope.
CARLOS
Yeah. Here's your cut.
ANTONIO
Good. I think that this is the beginning of a beautiful relationship.
RAFAEL
Anything else going on? Preferably something a little less country, a little more
rock and roll?
Antonio starts looking at his computer.
ANTONIO
Depends. Think you could open for a band?
CARLOS
Depends on the band.
ANTONIO
A girl band. Definitely rock.
RAFAEL
Sounds good. In a more reputable place, I hope.
ANTONIO
Definitely. (beat) It's a larger bar, but one that has also acts as a launch pad for
bands. (beat) Not as interesting as the last one.
HECTOR
Good. I'm still washing off part of that last place.
Antonio hits a few keys.
Something prints out.
Antonio gets up, grabs the print-out, and walks back to the guys.
ANTONIO
Here you go. Have fun.
RAPHAEL
Nice. It's a great place!
HECTOR
You been there?
He grins at Hector.
RAPHAEL
Maybe.
Hector returns the smile.
Carlos looks like he has been shot.
CARLOS
Not her. Anyone but not her. Not Abigail Castillo Chavez.
HECTOR
Who is she?
CARLOS
The devil.
RAPHAEL
Oh. She's that girl that---
CARLOS
---seems to haunt me wherever I go.
ANTONIO
Will that pose a problem?
HECTOR
No,sir. We'll work past it.
ANTONIO
Good. These gigs are so hard to find.
The guys run from the office.
Pages 30-32
EXT. MED SHOT – FRONT OF SCHOOL – CARLOS
Carlos has the business card.
He pulls out his cell.
CARLOS
Guess I should get this over with.
Carlos dials.
CARLOS
This is Carlos. (beat) Yeah, from Red Wolves Howl. (beat) Yeah, we're ready to
sign. (beat) Yeah, we'll be in the garage later on today. (beat) Wait. You already
have a gig, if we want it? (beat) Let me talk to the other guys but I'm sure we
can do that tonight. (beat) WHAT kind of music? (beat) Okay. Seeya. (beat)
Yeah, that's going to be an easy sell.
EXT. LONG SHOT – STUMBLE INN BAR & TAVERN – BACK DOOR – NIGHT
The Stumble Inn B&G is the worst example of a local bar ever imaginable. It's the kind of place that you know kind of excites kids as their first bar, and it holds the constant threat of violence.
And it's the place that Raphael's car is driving up to from the back door.
The car parks.
The guys clamber out.
RAPHAEL
Our first gig. Yay.
CARLOS
At least it's a gig.
RAPHAEL
Okay. I'll give you that. For now.
Hector is getting his drums out.
HECTOR
With my luck, they'll card us.
Raphael smiles.
RAPHAEL
That's why you get a fake ID before you go in, Eagle.
Hector's eyes roll.
Raphael brings his own guitar and a fiddle case.
CARLOS
I only hope we survive this.
Carlos crosses himself.
RAPHAEL
We will. If for no other reason than that I can kick your butt afterwards.
Hector smiles as he starts lugging his gear inside.
INT. LONG SHOT – STUMBLE INN – STAGE
The bar is pretty much what you would expect. It's dark, smoky, and only a few patrons litter the bar and tables. The patrons are in leathers, tattooed, and generally not the kind of people that like kids.
The kids are lugging in their equipment. The BAR OWNER, a slimy overweight man in his middle ages (and possibly Europe's as well) is showing them where to set up.
BAR OWNER
You can set up here.
The bar owner grabs a metal fence and pulls it across the stage.
BAR OWNER
It may get ugly. Stay behind this and you should be okay. If not, meh.
He leaves.
The guys start setting up.
Raphael is glaring at Carlos.
Carlos is doing his best to ignore Raphael.
Hector is slightly excited.
HECTOR
This could be fun. Imagine what the kids would say if they knew we were here.
RAPHAEL
“Did you get shots before or after the bar fight?” (beat) “Really, Raph? I though
you had that scar from last summer.” (beat) “Did you get drunk at least?”
Hector and Raphael fist bump while smiling as Carlos glares at them.
CARLOS
Okay, okay. But at least we're getting paid better than we did for the dance.
RAPHAEL
True. And that's the only reason I'm here.
They quickly finish up setting up.
SAME SCENE, AN HOUR LATER
The guys are looking out at the crowd.
The bar has filled up. There bar is full, and the audience has gotten scarier. If the The Terminator had met this crowd first, he would have been sold for scrap fifteen minutes later.
HECTOR
I am beginning to reconsider my original enthusiasm.
RAPHAEL
I'm getting gas money out of this, right?
CARLOS
I believe so.
RAPHAEL
Okay, then.
He puts his guitar down.
He pulls out his fiddle.
The other two look at him strangely.
He returns the glare.
RAPHAEL
That lead guitar is hot but not for Louisiana man. (beat) Let's do this.
Hector starts with a beat that matches his heart rate. It's a steady 4/4 time played straight.
Carlos lays down a riff on his guitar and then matches Hector's beat.
Raphael starts with the fiddle.
The crowd goes wild. Bottles start hitting the fence.
Raphael smiles at the flying glass.
Carlos has the business card.
He pulls out his cell.
CARLOS
Guess I should get this over with.
Carlos dials.
CARLOS
This is Carlos. (beat) Yeah, from Red Wolves Howl. (beat) Yeah, we're ready to
sign. (beat) Yeah, we'll be in the garage later on today. (beat) Wait. You already
have a gig, if we want it? (beat) Let me talk to the other guys but I'm sure we
can do that tonight. (beat) WHAT kind of music? (beat) Okay. Seeya. (beat)
Yeah, that's going to be an easy sell.
EXT. LONG SHOT – STUMBLE INN BAR & TAVERN – BACK DOOR – NIGHT
The Stumble Inn B&G is the worst example of a local bar ever imaginable. It's the kind of place that you know kind of excites kids as their first bar, and it holds the constant threat of violence.
And it's the place that Raphael's car is driving up to from the back door.
The car parks.
The guys clamber out.
RAPHAEL
Our first gig. Yay.
CARLOS
At least it's a gig.
RAPHAEL
Okay. I'll give you that. For now.
Hector is getting his drums out.
HECTOR
With my luck, they'll card us.
Raphael smiles.
RAPHAEL
That's why you get a fake ID before you go in, Eagle.
Hector's eyes roll.
Raphael brings his own guitar and a fiddle case.
CARLOS
I only hope we survive this.
Carlos crosses himself.
RAPHAEL
We will. If for no other reason than that I can kick your butt afterwards.
Hector smiles as he starts lugging his gear inside.
INT. LONG SHOT – STUMBLE INN – STAGE
The bar is pretty much what you would expect. It's dark, smoky, and only a few patrons litter the bar and tables. The patrons are in leathers, tattooed, and generally not the kind of people that like kids.
The kids are lugging in their equipment. The BAR OWNER, a slimy overweight man in his middle ages (and possibly Europe's as well) is showing them where to set up.
BAR OWNER
You can set up here.
The bar owner grabs a metal fence and pulls it across the stage.
BAR OWNER
It may get ugly. Stay behind this and you should be okay. If not, meh.
He leaves.
The guys start setting up.
Raphael is glaring at Carlos.
Carlos is doing his best to ignore Raphael.
Hector is slightly excited.
HECTOR
This could be fun. Imagine what the kids would say if they knew we were here.
RAPHAEL
“Did you get shots before or after the bar fight?” (beat) “Really, Raph? I though
you had that scar from last summer.” (beat) “Did you get drunk at least?”
Hector and Raphael fist bump while smiling as Carlos glares at them.
CARLOS
Okay, okay. But at least we're getting paid better than we did for the dance.
RAPHAEL
True. And that's the only reason I'm here.
They quickly finish up setting up.
SAME SCENE, AN HOUR LATER
The guys are looking out at the crowd.
The bar has filled up. There bar is full, and the audience has gotten scarier. If the The Terminator had met this crowd first, he would have been sold for scrap fifteen minutes later.
HECTOR
I am beginning to reconsider my original enthusiasm.
RAPHAEL
I'm getting gas money out of this, right?
CARLOS
I believe so.
RAPHAEL
Okay, then.
He puts his guitar down.
He pulls out his fiddle.
The other two look at him strangely.
He returns the glare.
RAPHAEL
That lead guitar is hot but not for Louisiana man. (beat) Let's do this.
Hector starts with a beat that matches his heart rate. It's a steady 4/4 time played straight.
Carlos lays down a riff on his guitar and then matches Hector's beat.
Raphael starts with the fiddle.
The crowd goes wild. Bottles start hitting the fence.
Raphael smiles at the flying glass.
Pages 27 - 29
INT. CLOSE SHOT - HECTOR'S ROOM – HECTOR – NIGHT
Hector is busy at his computer.
He puts the business card down.
He starts clicking, intent on some data he is tracking.
HECTOR
Hey, he is legit.
Hector reads some of the page.
HECTOR
He represents about twenty bands, with eight on labels and six others look like
they get some decent gigs. This is a guy who gets the bands that want it work.
(beat) Okay. I'm impressed.
Hector starts printing off some information.
HECTOR
I wonder if the guys will be as interested...
Hector stuffs the papers in his backpack.
INT. MEDIUM – SCHOOL – CARLOS/RAPHAEL
Carlos and Raphael are talking.
Hector rushes up.
HECTOR
Here, guys!
Hector gives them some papers.
He rushes off.
Carlos looks at the papers.
CARLOS
Looks like he came through.
Raphael stuffs them in his backpack.
RAPHAEL
I'll catch up with you later!
Carlos reads through his copies.
CARLOS
Interesting. (beat) He seems to have his fingers in a variety of pies. (beat) And it
seems that he can keep bands that work out in gigs. (beat) Marriages, bars, even
some parties and dances. (beat) We could be busy for months with this guy.
INT. LONG SHOT – LIBRARY – RAPHAEL
Raphael sits down with the backpack in front of him.
RAPHAEL
Guess I should see what Eagle pulled up.
He pulls out the papers Hector gave him.
He looks up and then digs in.
RAPHAEL
Hey! This guy could be fun to work with. He not only offers gigs but some sort
of “talent management” program. (beat) And he has some scholarships available.
That could make college easier.
Raphael looks at one piece of paper.
RAPHAEL
Okay. I think he's legit enough.
EXT. LONG SHOT – GARAGE – GUYS
Carlos and Raphael are talking.
Hector runs up.
HECTOR
So...was the information what you were looking for?
CARLOS
Yeah.
RAPHAEL
I think that we could do very well by this guy.
CARLOS
Yeah, he definitely looks like someone we could do good by.
HECTOR
So does that mean we're signing up with him?
CARLOS
Yeah. (beat) I'm making the call, aren't I?
Raphael and Hector smile at each other.
Raphael puts his arm around Carlos' shoulder.
RAPHAEL
You have noted that you have a gift for gab. Now is the time to put that gift to
use.
Carlos glares at Raphael.
CARLOS
You suck. You know that, right?
RAPHAEL
No, that's your job.
Raphael disengages and pulls on his guitar.
CARLOS
Tomorrow will be fun.
The band starts practicing.
Hector is busy at his computer.
He puts the business card down.
He starts clicking, intent on some data he is tracking.
HECTOR
Hey, he is legit.
Hector reads some of the page.
HECTOR
He represents about twenty bands, with eight on labels and six others look like
they get some decent gigs. This is a guy who gets the bands that want it work.
(beat) Okay. I'm impressed.
Hector starts printing off some information.
HECTOR
I wonder if the guys will be as interested...
Hector stuffs the papers in his backpack.
INT. MEDIUM – SCHOOL – CARLOS/RAPHAEL
Carlos and Raphael are talking.
Hector rushes up.
HECTOR
Here, guys!
Hector gives them some papers.
He rushes off.
Carlos looks at the papers.
CARLOS
Looks like he came through.
Raphael stuffs them in his backpack.
RAPHAEL
I'll catch up with you later!
Carlos reads through his copies.
CARLOS
Interesting. (beat) He seems to have his fingers in a variety of pies. (beat) And it
seems that he can keep bands that work out in gigs. (beat) Marriages, bars, even
some parties and dances. (beat) We could be busy for months with this guy.
INT. LONG SHOT – LIBRARY – RAPHAEL
Raphael sits down with the backpack in front of him.
RAPHAEL
Guess I should see what Eagle pulled up.
He pulls out the papers Hector gave him.
He looks up and then digs in.
RAPHAEL
Hey! This guy could be fun to work with. He not only offers gigs but some sort
of “talent management” program. (beat) And he has some scholarships available.
That could make college easier.
Raphael looks at one piece of paper.
RAPHAEL
Okay. I think he's legit enough.
EXT. LONG SHOT – GARAGE – GUYS
Carlos and Raphael are talking.
Hector runs up.
HECTOR
So...was the information what you were looking for?
CARLOS
Yeah.
RAPHAEL
I think that we could do very well by this guy.
CARLOS
Yeah, he definitely looks like someone we could do good by.
HECTOR
So does that mean we're signing up with him?
CARLOS
Yeah. (beat) I'm making the call, aren't I?
Raphael and Hector smile at each other.
Raphael puts his arm around Carlos' shoulder.
RAPHAEL
You have noted that you have a gift for gab. Now is the time to put that gift to
use.
Carlos glares at Raphael.
CARLOS
You suck. You know that, right?
RAPHAEL
No, that's your job.
Raphael disengages and pulls on his guitar.
CARLOS
Tomorrow will be fun.
The band starts practicing.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Pages 24-26
INT. MED. SHOT – GYMNASIUM – BAND
The guys are rocking hard on stage.
Carlos and Raphael are engaged in a solo war and the crowd is eating it up.
Carlos escalates the battle.
Raphael matches him, then pushes it.
Carlos then matches him and the two ride it out.
The crowd goes wild.
The guys take a breather.
Hector starts another song, one with a slower beat.
Missy Santana, a well-dressed teen-age girl, takes out her phone.
MISSY SANTANA
Hey Dad, listen to this! (beat) Yeah, I'm at the homecoming dance! (beat) No,
I'm not at the club. Again. (beat) Okay. I'll have that for you when they go on a
break! (beat) Love you, too. Bye!
Missy starts walking up to the stage.
EXT. MED SHOT – GARAGE – GUYS - DAY
The guys are practicing.
A car pulls up.
ANTONIO LOPEZ AMERIGO SANTANA, a sleazy forty-year-old Latino man, steps out of the car.
He walks up to the garage.
Hector stops playing.
HECTOR
Um, guys?
Carlos and Raphael stop playing as well.
Antonio stops just in front of the garage.
ANTONIO
Is this the Red Wolves Howl band?
They look at each other.
Raphael motions for Carlos to step up.
CARLOS
Yes, sir. How can I help you?
Antonio looks over the band.
ANTONIO
I am looking to represent you. You played at a school last night, and you
impressed my daughter. I like it when my daughter is impressed.
Hector's eyebrow goes up.
Raphael's shoulders drop; he's sure the guy is nuts.
Carlos puts his guitar between him and Antonio.
CARLOS
Can we have your card?
Antonio pulls out his card.
ANTONIO
Of course. (beat) Do you have a demo CD?
Carlos grabs the card.
Hector grabs a CD from his backpack and hands it to Carlos.
Carlos hands the CD to Antonio.
CARLOS
Of course. (beat) Do you mind if we hold off on the spiel for a day or two?
Antonio smiles.
ANTONIO
Cautious. I like that. Of course you can have a day or two. Just be advised that
this offer does expire. And I doubt that you will see another agent as quickly.
CARLOS
Thanks. I hope you enjoy the CD.
ANTONIO
I hope you enjoy the research. (beat) Good day, gentlemen.
Antonio walks back to his car.
He quickly drives off.
RAPHAEL
That was weird.
HECTOR
Very.
CARLOS
Yeah, but if he's legit...
HECTOR
Yeah, if he's legit it could be the start of something wonderful.
RAPHAEL
If he's legit.
Carlos hands Hector the card.
CARLOS
You know what to do.
Hector goes to attention and salutes Carlos.
HECTOR
I shall have his dossier by morning, Capitan!
Carlos' eyebrow goes up.
He hits Hector.
HECTOR
OW!
Raphael smiles.
RAPHAEL
Are you two idiots done?
HECTOR/CARLOS
Yes, sir!
RAPHAEL
You two are morons. You know that, right?
They smile as they return to their instruments and practice continues.
The guys are rocking hard on stage.
Carlos and Raphael are engaged in a solo war and the crowd is eating it up.
Carlos escalates the battle.
Raphael matches him, then pushes it.
Carlos then matches him and the two ride it out.
The crowd goes wild.
The guys take a breather.
Hector starts another song, one with a slower beat.
Missy Santana, a well-dressed teen-age girl, takes out her phone.
MISSY SANTANA
Hey Dad, listen to this! (beat) Yeah, I'm at the homecoming dance! (beat) No,
I'm not at the club. Again. (beat) Okay. I'll have that for you when they go on a
break! (beat) Love you, too. Bye!
Missy starts walking up to the stage.
EXT. MED SHOT – GARAGE – GUYS - DAY
The guys are practicing.
A car pulls up.
ANTONIO LOPEZ AMERIGO SANTANA, a sleazy forty-year-old Latino man, steps out of the car.
He walks up to the garage.
Hector stops playing.
HECTOR
Um, guys?
Carlos and Raphael stop playing as well.
Antonio stops just in front of the garage.
ANTONIO
Is this the Red Wolves Howl band?
They look at each other.
Raphael motions for Carlos to step up.
CARLOS
Yes, sir. How can I help you?
Antonio looks over the band.
ANTONIO
I am looking to represent you. You played at a school last night, and you
impressed my daughter. I like it when my daughter is impressed.
Hector's eyebrow goes up.
Raphael's shoulders drop; he's sure the guy is nuts.
Carlos puts his guitar between him and Antonio.
CARLOS
Can we have your card?
Antonio pulls out his card.
ANTONIO
Of course. (beat) Do you have a demo CD?
Carlos grabs the card.
Hector grabs a CD from his backpack and hands it to Carlos.
Carlos hands the CD to Antonio.
CARLOS
Of course. (beat) Do you mind if we hold off on the spiel for a day or two?
Antonio smiles.
ANTONIO
Cautious. I like that. Of course you can have a day or two. Just be advised that
this offer does expire. And I doubt that you will see another agent as quickly.
CARLOS
Thanks. I hope you enjoy the CD.
ANTONIO
I hope you enjoy the research. (beat) Good day, gentlemen.
Antonio walks back to his car.
He quickly drives off.
RAPHAEL
That was weird.
HECTOR
Very.
CARLOS
Yeah, but if he's legit...
HECTOR
Yeah, if he's legit it could be the start of something wonderful.
RAPHAEL
If he's legit.
Carlos hands Hector the card.
CARLOS
You know what to do.
Hector goes to attention and salutes Carlos.
HECTOR
I shall have his dossier by morning, Capitan!
Carlos' eyebrow goes up.
He hits Hector.
HECTOR
OW!
Raphael smiles.
RAPHAEL
Are you two idiots done?
HECTOR/CARLOS
Yes, sir!
RAPHAEL
You two are morons. You know that, right?
They smile as they return to their instruments and practice continues.
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