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"Four Women Together" Part 1
This is set in mid 1990's LA
FADE IN
INT. SCREENING ROOM - NIGHT
Packed house. Images flicker on the screen. TOTAL SILENCE.
C/U of WOMAN in AUDIENCE: SARAH CUNNINGHAM, 28, gorgeous,
intense, watches the Screen, hypnotized.
ON SCREEN:
INT. PASSENGER TRAIN DINING CAR - DAY
C/U SARAH: sitting at table gazing peacefully out the
window. CAMERA PANS and PULLS BACK: out the window, the
magnificent Southwestern landscape rolls by.
EXT. PASSENGER TRAIN DINING CAR - DAY
Sarah looks out window through reflection of landscape.
cut to:
OVERHEAD SHOT of the BRIGHT SILVER TRAIN traveling through
landscape. CAMERA PULLS BACK and UP until the Train is a
silver thread against the landscape, and it...
fades to black:
SOUND of APPLAUSE, MUFFLED and DISTANT.
INT. SCREENING ROOM - NIGHT
SOUND of MUFFLED APPLAUSE. C/U Sarah as Lights come up.
She seems to 'come out of a daze', stands, smiles almost
convincingly. She wears a simple Black Evening Gown. A
MIXED CROWD of attractive WELL DRESSED PEOPLE, surrounds
her. They smile and 'talk at her'. SOUND OF UNINTELLIGIBLE
MUFFLED, 'INSECT-LIKE' CHATTERING.
In a far corner of the Screening Room stands MEGAN MAYALL,
20's, tall, skinny, exotic, wearing a Black T-Shirt and
Jeans. She is bruised and bloody, but no one notices her.
She watches Sarah with great intensity. TOTAL SILENCE.
INT. RESTAURANT - NIGHT
An elegant, 'up-scale' establishment. MUFFLED SOUND of B/G
RESTAURANT NOISE. Sarah sits at Large Table with TWO DOZEN
PEOPLE (all from screening). Everyone, including Sarah is
very animated. Service people come and go.
Across the Room, against a wall, 'Bruised' Megan stands,
watches. TOTAL SILENCE.
INT. CONFERENCE ROOM - DAY
Spacious Room, with Long, Polished Wood Table in center,
and Large Panoramic Windows. Sarah sits at Table, with a
HALF-DOZEN 'MEN IN SUITS', 20's/30's. She stares out the
window, as the 'Suits' go over Legal Papers. MUFFLED SOUND
of B/G CONVERSATION ECHOES.
Behind Sarah, in the back of the room, 'Bruised' Megan
watches her stare out the Window.
INT. 'GREENROOM' - NIGHT
Small, neat room, with a large T.V. Monitor up on the wall:
a 'Talkshow' is in progress, SOUND MUFFLED.
C/U Sarah wearing make-up bib over an Elegant Pantsuit. She
sips from a Styrofoam cup, expression blank, watches the
monitor. 'Bruised' Megan sits under the Monitor looking at
Sarah. TOTAL SILENCE. The SOUND of LOUD KNOCKING startles
Sarah. The Door opens. A 'PERKY' YOUNG WOMAN in a Blazer
enters, smiles brightly.
Blazer Woman
You're next, Miss Cunningham.
Sarah
(distracted)
Yes.
(snaps out of it)
Okay. Let's do it.
She stands, pulls off bib, exits with Blazer Woman. Megan
sits watching the Monitor: after a beat, Sarah walks onto
'Talkshow', sits. She is very animated. TOTAL SILENCE.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
C/U T.V. SCREEN: Sarah on "Talkshow", laughing, gesturing,
SOUND MUFFLED.
Sarah, in sweats, sits on a couch, watches T.V., expression
blank. CLAIRE, a TABBY CAT, sleeps in her lap. MAX, a BLACK
CAT, sleeps further down the couch. The Apartment is large,
spacious, tastefully furnished, lots of bookshelves and art
work. Several paces behind the couch, Megan stands and wat-
ches. TOTAL SILENCE.
cut to:
C/U T.V. SCREEN: Sarah on second 'Talkshow', laughing, etc.
SOUND MUFFLED.
cut to:
C/U VIDEOTAPE DECK: a Tape ejects.
Sarah takes the Tape out, puts in another Tape.
cut to:
C/U T.V. SCREEN: Sarah on third 'Talkshow', etc. SOUND
MUFFLED.
Sarah sits on couch watching blankly. Megan stands across
the room, staring.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BEDROOM - NIGHT
In the darkened room, Sarah lays in bed, stares at ceiling.
dissolve to:
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BEDROOM - DAWN
Sarah hasn't moved. She looks at the light from the window,
her expression bleak.
EXT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BALCONY - DAY
Sarah comes out onto the Balcony, squints at the light. She
looks like hell. She stands at the Railing, looks out. The
view is of the Santa Monica Beachfront, Ocean Ave. etc.
Over her shoulder, Megan watches from inside the living
room. Sarah 'senses' this, turns in a fury.
Sarah
WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM ME?!
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - DAY
Megan looks at a Desk in a corner, then back at Sarah
outside.
Megan
You know exactly what I want.
Sarah, grim-faced, comes inside, screams, picks up a chair,
throws it, but Megan has vanished. Sarah 'rages': knocks
over the Furniture, breaks things, cries.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BATHROOM - DAY
Sarah writes the words "I HATE YOU!!" on the Mirror in
Blood Red Lipstick.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
The room has Take-Out Containers laying all over. The
Furniture is still scattered about.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BEDROOM - NIGHT
The Closet is open, Dresser Drawers are pulled out, Clothes
are scattered everywhere. Sarah is under the covers. Max
and Claire nudge her, MEOW plaintively. She doesn't move.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - DAWN
Max and Claire scavenge from Take-Out Containers.
C/U of ANSWERING MACHINE: The RED LED reads '17'. SOUND of
a 'CLICK-CLUNK'. The LED changes to '18'.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - DAY
The place is even more of a 'shithouse'. Sarah frantically
sets up an Easel. Her sweats are stained, her hair a mess.
cut to:
Sarah violently Paints a 'screaming face', all Blacks and
Reds.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BEDROOM - DAY
The Room is still a disaster. Sarah sits in Bed, writing in
a Journal. C/U JOURNAL PAGE: she writes "God, Please help
me!". She puts the pen down with a look of deep sadness.
cut to:
Sarah kneels next to the bed, prays.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/KITCHEN - DAY
Sarah feeds Max and Claire.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - DAY
Sarah picks up trash, puts it in a Garbage Bag.
cut to:
Sarah vacuuming. The Furniture has been straightened up.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BEDROOM - DAY
Sarah folds Clothing, puts it in Dresser Drawer.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BATHROOM - NIGHT
Sarah wipes the Lipstick off the Mirror.
cut to:
Sarah stands in the Shower, bows her head under Steaming
Hot Water.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BEDROOM - NIGHT
Sarah sleeps peacefully, Max and Claire curled up next to
her.
EXT. RUNYAN CANYON PARK - DAWN
Sarah hikes up the Trail. It is a gorgeous morning.
CUT TO:
Sarah sits on a Bench on the top of the hill looking out at
the Vista of Los Angeles. She is contemplative.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - DAY
Sarah enters, goes to the desk, opens the drawer, takes out
a Large Accordion Envelope.
cut to:
She sits on the couch going through the envelope. She pulls
out spiral notebooks, glances through them. Then she takes
out a PHOTO, looks at it intently.
C/U PHOTO: FOUR BEAUTIFUL WOMEN, DRESSED in BLACK, ARM in
ARM, LAUGHING, somewhere at NIGHT. Sarah is one of them.
Another is Megan. (The TWO other WOMEN we saw at the
'screening')
cut to:
Sarah picks up the phone, dials.
Sarah
Hey, Bobby, it's Sarah. What are you doing
right now?
EXT. THE HOUSE - DAY
It's a sweet little House, tucked into a Hillside, on an
Inclined Street. A funky, OPEN-TOPPED SCOUT pulls up in
front, stops. Sarah drives. She looks at the House wist-
fully.
INT. THE FOYER - DAY
Semi-Darkness. SOUND of DOOR LOCK BEING OPENED. The Front
Door swings in, letting in the Daylight. The place is wond-
erful. No one has lived here for a while. Sarah enters slo-
wly, nervously.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
It's not big, but is open and airy, with a Hardwood Floor
and Fireplace. Sarah enters, looks around.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)
The room is outrageously decorated. SOUND of LOUD MUSIC.
DOZENS of PEOPLE dance and laugh.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
Sarah stands in the empty room. She smiles slightly.
INT. THE HALLWAY - DAY
A Hallway with Doors on either side, with the Living Room
at one end, a Door at the other. Sarah comes down the
Hallway, opens a Door.
INT. BEDROOM - DAY
Sarah stands in the Doorway contemplating the Room. It is
small, has a high ceiling, is very well lit.
INT. BEDROOM - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)
It's RAINING outside, with THUNDER and LIGHTNING. In the
Bed, TWO NAKED WOMEN passionately intertwined, MOANING and
CRYING OUT. We can't see their faces.
INT. BEDROOM - DAY
Sarah wets her lips, sighs deeply, closes the Door.
INT. THE HALLWAY - DAY
Sarah stands in front of the Door at the end of the Hall-
way. She seems very uptight.
Sarah
(sotto voce)
Okay, let's do it.
She grabs the Knob and pushes the door open.
INT. THE BIG BATHROOM - DAY
It's an amazing bathroom. Good sized, Tile Floors, Old Fix-
tures, a Huge Tub. Sarah looks into the Room with fear.
INT. THE BIG BATHROOM - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)
The Room is filled with Candles, the Tub is filled with
Blood. In the Doorway, Sarah stands transfixed. Suddenly,
the Surface of the Blood begins to Bubble.
INT. THE HALLWAY - DAY
Sarah quickly steps back into the Hallway, pulls the Door
closed.
Sarah
(mutters)
Fuck.
The SOUND of MOVEMENT elsewhere in the House startles her.
Man's Voice (o.s.)
Sarah? Sarah, are you here?
Sarah
(relaxes, smiles with relief)
Yeah, Bobby, I'm here.
She walks down the Hallway.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
Sarah enters. Waiting there is BOBBY AVENEL, 40, tall, good
looking, heavy set. He smiles warmly. (We saw him at the
screening)
Bobby
Hey, babe.
Sarah
Hi, Bobby.
They hug.
Bobby
I see your old key still works.
(looks around)
It's funny, but I just couldn't sell this
place before. Or even rent it. In fact,
this is the first time I've been back
since...back then.
Sarah
Same here.
Bobby
Sarah, are you sure about this?
Sarah
Yes. It's what I have to do.
Bobby
Okay. But if you change your mind, I'll
give you a full refund.
Sarah
Thanks.
There is an awkward silence.
Bobby
Well, then, I guess your lawyer will call
my lawyer.
Sarah hugs him very tightly.
Sarah
Thank you for this, Bobby.
Bobby
Anything for my leading lady.
(goes to exit)
Look, what ever you need...
Sarah
I know.
Bobby
Okay.
He blows her a kiss, exits. She looks around the empty
room.
dissolve to:
The room is furnished with things from Sarah's Apartment.
It 'feels homey'. Max and Claire chase each other around
the room.
INT. THE LITTLE BATHROOM - DAY
It's a lot like the Big Bathroom, but half the size, with
only a shower stall. Sarah, wrapped in a towel, brushes her
wet hair.
INT. THE HALLWAY - DAY
Sarah walks down the Hallway. Max follows her, MEOWS. She
picks him up, cuddles him.
Sarah
(cutesy)
Ooooo, my little Max.
He PURRS. She looks at the door at the end of the Hallway.
cut to:
Sarah stands in front of the door, opens it.
INT. THE BIG BATHROOM - DAY
It's empty and unused. Sarah moves to enter. Max GROWLS,
starts struggling, jumps out of her arms.
Sarah
Max, what's the matter?
Max arches his back, HISSES at the room, runs back down the
Hallway.
INT. THE HALLWAY - DAY
Sarah closes the door, a bit unnerved.
Sarah
This can wait.
As she goes back down the Hallway, we can see that some of
the Bedrooms have been turned into an Exercise Room and a
Video Editing Room.
INT. THE KITCHEN - DAY
It's an open area with Big Windows, a Professional Stove, a
Large Refrigerator, a lot of Cabinets and Counter Space, a
Classic B&W Checkerboard Linoleum Floor, and a large Table.
Sarah sits at the Table, drinks tea, writes on a notepad.
INT. SARAH'S WRITING ROOM - DAY
One of the Bedrooms. It has a Workstation with a Computer,
Monitor, Printer, etc. The "FOUR WOMEN" PHOTO, now framed,
sits on a shelf, 'line of sight'. Sarah is at the Computer.
She cracks her knuckles, starts typing.
C/U COMPUTER SCREEN:
The words "FOUR WOMEN TOGETHER an Original Screenplay by
Sarah Cunningham".
dissolve to black:
WIDESCREEN TITLE CARD
FOUR WOMEN TOGETHER
dissolve to:
INT. CASTING OFFICE - DAY
A small space, well-lit, nicely furnished. On the walls,
Actor's Headshots. A DOZEN BEAUTIFUL 'TWENTYSOMETHING'
ACTRESSES in 'cute little dresses', sit in Chairs lined
against the walls, posture, pose, studiously ignoring each
other. At a Desk, a YOUNG MAN, handsome, 20's, goes over
lists of names. He looks bored.
Sarah (v.o.)
It's funny how things work out.
A Headshot of Sarah is tossed on the Desk, startling him.
He looks up to see...Sarah.
Sarah
(very sexy smile)
Hi.
He blushes, smiles, hands her a Clipboard with a Form on
it. He seems like he'd like to say something, but can't.
Sarah
Thanks.
As she turns from him, her smiles drops away. She surveys
the room.
Sarah (v.o.)
Sometimes a casual conversation changes
your whole life.
Across the room is an Empty Chair between TWO BEAUTIFUL
WOMEN. With a few long strides, she arrives at the Empty
Chair. She pauses for a moment, as the Two Women make room.
Sarah sits down, looks over at the Woman on her right.
GRETCHEN FARRAR, 27, quiet, ethereal, sits shyly, keeping
a 'low profile'. Sarah looks at the Woman on her left.
THERESA MOLYNEAUX, 27, high strung, angular, reads her
'sides' with a 'Don't bother me' energy. (We recognize
them both from the PHOTO and the screening) Sarah sighs,
fills out the Form.
cut to:
Sarah, eyes glazing, reads the 'sides'. She puts them down,
takes a Book from her Bag, starts reading it. The Book is
titled: "A Simple Guide to Auric Healing." Gretchen and
Theresa simultaneously take notice of the Book.
Sarah
(smiles at them)
It's a totally incredible book. Look.
She turns to a Chart of the Human Body surrounded by
different Colored Outlines.
Sarah
You see, it shows how the Energetic Body
extends beyond the physical body.
Gretchen
Wow. I've seen other charts, but, this is..
Theresa
(authoritatively)
Concise and radical.
Sarah and Gretchen look at her in amazement.
Theresa
(smiles casually, shrugs)
The woman I do crystal work with has studied
with him.
(indicates the Book)
That's what she said.
Sarah gives her a big smile, puts her hand out.
Sarah
I'm Sarah Cunningham.
Theresa
Theresa Molyneaux.
They shake hands. An intense energy seems to pass between
them, which Sarah 'breaks' by turning to Gretchen.
gretchen
(smiles sweetly)
Gretchen Farrar.
Gretchen shakes hands with Sarah, then Theresa.
Sarah
You know, I totally hate auditions. They
make me want to jump out of my skin.
Theresa
Tell me about it.
Gretchen
You get used to them.
Sarah
Yeah, but you never like them.
Gretchen
Well no, not really. Not me, anyway.
After a beat, Gretchen goes into her Bag, pulls out a small
Velvet Pouch.
Gretchen
I just bought these a few days ago.
She takes out a Deck of Tarot Cards out of the Pouch,
'fans' them, revealing a Set of incredible beauty.
Sarah
(eyes widen)
Oh, my God! Those are amazing.
Gretchen smiles with satisfaction, makes to hand the Deck
to Sarah.
Gretchen
Here.
Sarah
Are you sure? I mean, it's your deck.
Gretchen
It's okay. Your energy feels good.
Sarah smiles warmly, takes the Deck.
Sarah
Whoa. These are intense.
cut to:
Sarah, Clipboard across her lap, shuffles the Tarot Deck on
top of it.
Sarah
So, what do we want to ask?
Theresa
Ask it about us.
Gretchen
Yes, that's a good one. Chance meetings.
Sarah
Okay, concentrate as I shuffle.
Gretchen and Theresa watch Sarah intensely as she shuffles,
then places the Deck flat on the Clipboard.
Sarah
Okay, now each of you cut the deck once.
And use your left hand only.
Gretchen and Theresa 'cut the Deck'. Sarah cuts the Deck,
puts the stacks together, pulls a Card, places it face up.
Her eyes widen, she laughs abruptly.
Sarah
Holy Shit!
Gretchen and Theresa look at the Card, smile.
C/U THE CARD: Three Women Dancing in a circle, holding Cups
raised over their heads.
Theresa
I take it that this is a good omen.
Sarah
It's the Three of Cups. It's a card about
shared experience. Positive shared experience.
Theresa
(skeptical)
So, we're supposed to all become friends?
Gretchen
I think we already are.
The Young Man comes up to them.
Young Man
Gretchen Farrar?
(sees the Cards, smirks)
What is this? MacBeth?
Simultaneously, the Women place their hands together on the
Cards, cackle theatrically. He steps back involuntarily.
The other Women in the room start laughing hysterically.
He smiles with embarrassment. The Women look at each other,
smile warmly.
Sarah (v.o.)
Obviously, this was fate.
INT. ROCK CLIMBING SCHOOL - DAY
C/U OF SARAH'S FACE: She Screams, Laughs uproariously.
Sarah
THIS IS FUCKING RIDICULOUS!
She wears Climbing Gear, hangs sideways on an Artificial
Cliff Face in a large Gym-like room. Theresa is above her,
Gretchen below. Neither one of them is doing all that
great, but everyone is laughing.
INT. GRETCHEN'S APARTMENT - DAY
A tiny place full of Bookshelves and Plants. Gretchen and
Sarah sit side by side before a Keyboard singing together.
Gretchen plays. They look happy, sound beautiful.
INT. FENCING STUDIO - DAY
Two Women fence vigorously. They wear White Padded Fencing
Suits, and Wire Mesh Masks. They Parry and Thrust, with
tremendous energy. SOUND of SWORDS CLASHING ECHOES LOUDLY.
Finally, one Woman 'scores' the other. The 'loser' pulls
off her Mask: Theresa.
Theresa
(pissed)
Fuck!
She throws the Mask down to punctuate the expletive. The
'winner' pulls off her Mask: Sarah.
Sarah
(laughs)
Kicked your ass, dude!
This pisses Theresa off even more. She grabs her Mask off
the floor, gestures with her Sword.
Theresa
I'm going to ram this up your ass!
Sarah
(laughs)
In your dreams, honey.
The Studio Door opens. Gretchen sticks her head in.
Gretchen
Are you guys almost done?
Sarah
Sure. This won't take but a minute.
Theresa growls, puts on her Mask. Sarah puts on her Mask.
They 'go at' each other.
Gretchen
(makes a face)
I think I'll get a Latte'.
She withdraws.
INT. FENCING STUDIO HALLWAY - DAY
SOUND of SWORDS CLASHING ECHOES behind Gretchen, then..
Theresa (o.s.)
FUCK!
INT. CASTING OFFICE - DAY
The Office is funkier than the first one, but basically the
same, i.e. Headshots on walls, ACTRESSES sitting around.
The door opens, the Women troop in, walk up to a 'WELL
WORN' WOMAN, late 40's, at a Desk, place their Headshots
on her Desk, side by side. She looks at them in disbelief.
Woman
What are you, a sister act?
The Women just laugh.
INT. CLUB - NIGHT
"The Scene". Lots of 'YOUNG HOLLYWOOD' TYPES bullshit each
other, Smoke, Drink, get "pounded" by Loud Rock Music. The
Women sit in a Booth with THREE HANDSOME YOUNG MEN, 20's.
All Smoke, Drink. Gretchen's date is intense, talks her ear
off. She's 'zoned out'. The Two Young Men with Theresa and
Sarah are glum 'JAMES DEAN WANNABES'.
Sarah
I'm so fucking broke, I can't believe it.
Theresa
There's a job open at the Hot Box.
Sarah
Hello? Brain Dead! I'm not going to be a
fucking stripper!
Theresa
It's not that! It's what I do. You know,
cocktail waitress.
A good looking GUY, 24, passes the Table, smiles at Sarah.
She gives him a coy smile.
Theresa
You'll make good tips. And I'll be working
the same shift.
Sarah
What do I have to wear?
Theresa
Well, basically, your underwear.
Sarah
Fuck.
(deep breath)
Okay, when can I start?
Man's Voice (o.s.)
Hey, Theresa!
They look up and see Bobby. He smiles brightly. Theresa
smiles back.
Theresa
Bobby. How are you?
Bobby
Can't complain. Yourself?
Theresa
Good. I'm doing good.
Bobby eyes 'James Dean' #1, looks at Theresa, smiles slyly.
Bobby
I'm shooting a music video in a few weeks
and I need some beautiful girls. Descent
money. You interested?
Theresa
Sure.
Bobby
(hands her a Card, grins)
Call me, babe.
Bobby blows her a kiss, moves on.
Sarah
Who was that?
Theresa
Bobby Avenel. He's directed a couple of small
films. I think he's interested in me.
Sarah
Girl, he's totally interested.
Theresa leans close to Sarah, whispers conspiratorially.
Theresa
You want to dance?
Sarah
Yeah, let's do it.
Theresa
(to 'James Dean' #1)
We're going to the little girl's room.
Sarah practically pushes 'James Dean' #2 out of the Booth.
Theresa follows, then turns to Gretchen, grabs her arm.
Theresa
C'mon. You gotta pee.
She pulls Gretchen out of the Booth. The Three Women walk
off arm in arm.
EXT. "HOT BOX" - NIGHT
Sarah sits in her Car, looking at the Flashing Lights on
the side of the Building. She is not a happy girl.
INT. DRESSING ROOM - NIGHT
It's a nasty little rat hole. Overlit, Floor to Ceiling
Mirrors, a few Chairs, some Lockers. Sarah stands in front
of the Mirrors wearing Stiletto Heals, Fishnet Stockings,
a G-String, and a Bustier, all in Black.
Sarah
I can't fucking believe this.
Theresa walks up. She wears the identical outfit in Red.
Sarah turns around, looks at her ass basically hanging
out naked.
Sarah
I can't fucking believe this.
Theresa
(smiles)
I think you look hot.
Sarah
(harsh)
Oh, God. Get over it!
Theresa's hurt. Sarah softens, gives her a hug and kiss.
Sarah
I'm sorry. I'm just freaking out.
Theresa
You'll do fine. C'mon, follow me.
Theresa turns to the Door, opens it. LOUD MUSIC washes into
the room. Sarah takes a deep breath, walks to the door,
stops.
Sarah
Oh, shit.
INT. HOT BOX - NIGHT
The Room is jammed with MEN of EVERY TYPE. A TRASHY LOOKING
GIRL, 20's, with "enhanced assets" and a G-String, is up on
the Stage, rubbing her crotch against a Big Brass Pole. Men
Shout, Throw Money at her. Sarah stands in the Dressing
Room Doorway.
Sarah
(mutters)
Fuck me hard.
AUDIO DISSOLVE from 'HOT BOX' ROCK TRACK
to another, 'NASTIER' ROCK TRACK:
INT. SOUND STAGE - DAY
FOUR 'SKANKY' PRETTY-BOY ROCKERS, 20's, play in front of
a Blue Screen. They are totally "full of themselves". The
Bass Drum has the words "SPOOGE MONKEY" on it's front.
The Women, wearing sexy little Cheerleader Outfits, Dance
around the Band. They are having fun. Bobby sits in a
Directors Chair next to the Camera. He is not a happy boy.
He looks at his Watch.
Bobby
Cut!
After a beat, the Music Playback stops. This has caught
"Spooge Monkey" unawares. They are upset.
Monkey #1
Hey, man! We were just getting our groove.
Bobby
I got the shot I needed. And it's time for
lunch.
(looks around to the CREW, shouts)
Lunch! One hour!
The Crew scatters. Monkey #1 comes up to Bobby, followed by
the rest of the Band.
Monkey #1
Hey, man. We don't have to take this shit
from anybody.
Bobby gives him an "Are you talking to me?" look. The Women
gather beside Bobby. They look ready to fight.
Monkey #1
(sneers)
Your bitches think they're tough?
Sarah
Hey, fuck you, you pinky little dick mother
fucker!
Woman's Voice (o.s.)
Are we having a problem here?
Everyone looks toward the SOUND of the VOICE. MEGAN strides
into the Sound Stage. She is dressed 'uber-hip': Black mini
dress, wrap-around sunglasses, and high-heeled, pointy-toed
'combat boots'. MONKEY #1 gives her an 'Oh, shit! look.
Monkey #1
Ahh...No problem, Megan. It's just that-
Megan
It's just that you're a fucking prima donna.
Bobby and the Women try not to smile.
Monkey #1
C'mon, man. He was treating us like..Well,
disrespectful, you know. Wouldn't even let
us use our own chicks in the video.
Megan
That's 'cause your chicks look like cover
girls for Crack Whore Magazine.
Monkey #1
Fuck this! We're fucking out of here!
Megan
('gets in his face')
Listen up, asshole! I'm the senior management
representative of Catatonic Records on site,
and you fucking faggots are into us for close
to six figures, so you'll do what the fuck
you're told, or you'll wind up on welfare,
and I'll attach your fucking welfare checks
too, if I have to! You got that?!
Monkey #1 'wilts'. The other Band Members step back.
Monkey #1
(small)
Yes.
Megan
Yes, what!?
Monkey #1
(swallows)
Yes, sir..ahh..Ma'am.
Megan
Good. Now get out of here.
Monkey #1
(whiny)
What about our lunch?
Megan digs into her bag, pulls out a Fifty Dollar Bill.
Megan
Go get yourselves some Tommy Burgers.
Monkey #1 starts to say something, changes his mind. The
Band shuffles out. Megan smiles at Bobby and the Women.
Megan
Hello, I'm Megan Mayall...
(looks directly at Gretchen, brightens)
Gretchen!
She and Gretchen hug and laugh.
Gretchen
Hi, sweety.
Megan
God, it's been for-fucking-ever.
Gretchen
Megan and I were teenage skateboarding punks
in Hollywood.
Sarah
I think I've got some of your records.
Megan smiles brightly at Sarah.
Sarah
I'm Sarah.
Megan
Hi.
There is energy between them.
Gretchen
And that's Theresa and Bobby.
Megan
Hi, Theresa. Bobby I know.
Bobby
You kicked some serious ass, babe.
Megan
Fuckers had it coming.
Bobby
By the way, where is their lunch?
Megan
I have the caterers waiting outside. I know
this fucking band, so I figured there would
be some kind of shit.
(grins)
So, we get to eat their lunch.
Theresa
Oh, we like this girl.
Megan winks at her.
cut to:
Everyone sits at a Large Table near the back of the Sound
Stage. It's got a 'great spread'. Megan 'pops' a Bottle of
Champagne. Sarah and Theresa "hoot and holler" as she fills
their glasses.
cut to:
Everyone eats.
Gretchen
..And there was this one time a bunch of
Vato's chased us down an alley.
(to Megan)
Remember?
Megan
Fuck, yeah. We'd been moshing at the Fudge.
I think we were 'Dusted', too. Real fucked
up, one way or another.
Gretchen
Yeah, trashed. You pulled that fucking
huge knife out.
Megan
(laughing)
Right. And you started throwing garbage
cans at them. They ran like whipped dogs.
Sarah
Our sweet little Miss "Gee", violent?
Gretchen
We were sixteen, and out on the street.
Megan
And ripped.
Gretchen
Big time.
cut to:
The conversation continues.
Sarah
...So "Gee's" got this guy camped out in
her apartment, and he won't leave.
Gretchen
He was sweet.
Theresa
He was a freak!
Gretchen
(wistful)
The sex was great.
Everyone laughs.
Sarah
And you couldn't get him out of your
apartment.
Gretchen
That's why I have you two as friends.
Bobby
(to Sarah and Theresa)
You two threw him out?
Sarah
Show a guy a gun and his attitude improves
real fast.
Theresa
Straight razors are also great attitude
adjusters.
Bobby
(impressed)
You really are some tough bitches.
Megan
Any feminist worth her salt packs some kind
of "iron".
Sarah
Damn straight, girl.
They 'high-five'.
cut to:
Megan 'pops' another bottle of Champagne.
Sarah
..God, that fucking job sucks so bad, you
have no idea.
Bobby
What's the job?
Sarah
Theresa and I serve booze to fat, loud-
mouthed assholes in our underwear.
bobby
And how do these assholes get in your under-
wear?
Sarah
The only asshole in my underwear is the
one I fart with.
Bobby
(laughs loudly)
I like you, babe. You've got a big dick.
Sarah
Fuckin-A right, I do!
Bobby is quiet for a moment, then looks at Sarah, Theresa,
and Gretchen.
Bobby
You know what? I've got a proposition for
you girls.
They raise their eyebrows at him.
Bobby
How much do you each pay for rent?
Sarah
Seven and a quarter.
Theresa
Seven fifty.
Gretchen
Six seventy five.
Bobby
Okay, here's the deal. I've got this place
up in the hills. Just kicked this shithead
out 'cause he was three months late. It's
got four bedrooms. They're tiny, but they've
got their own doors.
Theresa
How many bathrooms?
Bobby
Two and a half.
Sarah
So, how much?
Bobby
I've given up trying to make money as a
landlord, so I'll give it to you at my cost.
Twelve hundred and you pay the utilities.
It'll help clean up my karma.
The Women look at each other, smile, look back at Bobby.
The Women
(simultaneously)
Deal!
Bobby grins like 'the cat that ate the canary'.
Theresa
('fisheye's him')
What's the catch?
Bobby
(smiling)
You have to invite me to all your parties.
Sarah
(coy)
Even the lesbian parties?
Bobby
(brightly)
Especially the lesbian parties!
Gretchen
You said four bedrooms?
Bobby
Yeah.
Gretchen
Maybe we should get a fourth.
Bobby
No freaks.
Sarah
Hello? Excuse me! We're all freaks here.
Bobby
(whacks his forehead)
Now, how could I forget that?!
Sarah
Dude, you are so hilarious.
Gretchen
(to Megan)
How much do you pay for rent?
Megan looks a little uncomfortable.
Gretchen
I'm sorry, I only..
Megan looks at Sarah, who smiles warmly.
Megan
Twenty one hundred.
Sarah
Fuck! It better be a palace.
Megan
(shrugs)
It's a condo.
(pause)
If it's okay, I'd like to be your fourth.
Gretchen
Personally, I would be very happy to have you.
Theresa
Yeah, I like your style.
Sarah
(incredulous)
Why would you want to live with roommates?
Megan
I don't really like living alone, and I
definitely don't want to live with a
boyfriend.
Sarah
(grinning)
Well, that's perfectly reasonable.
Sarah looks at Bobby questioningly.
Bobby
Hey, she's cool with me.
Megan has an "aha", pulls out a small Velvet Pouch out of
her bag.
Megan
Are you familiar with the Tarot?
Sarah
Very.
Megan
Let's do a reading.
Sarah
Cool.
cut to:
Megan shuffles the Deck, places it on the Table. Each in
turn, the Women 'cut' the Deck. Megan pulls up the top
Card: The Three of Cups.
Sarah
Holy fucking shit!
Theresa
Jesus Christ!
Gretchen
That's our card.
Megan
Does that mean I'm in?
Sarah
(big smile)
Dude, you are totally fucking in.
Megan
Cool.
(NOTE: From now on, Megan is included in -THE WOMEN-)
Bobby
(taps his Glass)
I believe a toast is in order.
The Women pick up their Glasses, look to Bobby. He raises
his Glass.
Bobby
(wide grin)
Here's to freaks.
The Womem laugh, "CLINK" their glasses.
The Women
To Freaks!
EXT. THE HOUSE - DAY
The House is rather more run down than we first saw it.
The Women pull up in an OLD SEDAN. Sarah drives. As they
get out, they look at the House in wonderment.
INT. THE FOYER - DAY
Semi-darkness. SOUND of DOOR LOCK BEING OPENED. The Front
Door swings in, letting in the daylight. Sarah is the first
one in. She "coo's" with pleasure. Gretchen and Theresa are
right behind her. They smile brightly. Megan follows more
slowly.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
The Women enter, look around, amazed. Sarah smiles giddily.
Sarah
This place is so fucking rad!
Gretchen and Theresa head down the Hallway, excited. Sarah
keeps looking at the Living Room. Megan watches, smiles.
Sarah
(soft)
This place is so fucking rad.
INT. BEDROOM - DAY
Gretchen looks around the room, smiles happily.
Gretchen
Ohh, this is so cute.
Theresa (o.s.)
Oh, my God! You've got to see this!
INT. THE BIG BATHROOM - DAY
Theresa looks at the Tub like she wants to have sex with
it. Sarah and Megan come in, see the Tub. They're awed.
Sarah
Wow. There's enough room in there for two.
Theresa
Yeah.
Sarah
('gets serious')
Dude, this is going to have to be a communal
bathroom.
Theresa
(laughs)
Fucking Sarah.
Sarah laughs, too. They "high-five" as Gretchen enters.
Gretchen
What's going...
She sees the Tub, stops in her tracks.
Theresa
Isn't it awesome?
Gretchen
(hushed)
It's beautiful.
They all look at the Tub, sigh, then start laughing.
INT. THE KITCHEN - DAY
The Women enter together, smile happily upon seeing this
amazing Kitchen.
Sarah
(giddy)
OH-MY-GOD!
They start laughing happily. Sarah jumps up and down, grabs
Gretchen's and Theresa's hands, they grab Megan's hands,
and they Dance like little girls round in a circle in the
middle of the Kitchen.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
The place is an 'organized mess'. Sarah and Gretchen sit on
the floor in Sweats and T-shirts, unpacking. Sarah looks up
(but not at Gretchen). She seems annoyed.
Sarah
Dude, what the fuck are you doing?
Theresa(o.s.)
I'm working on the wall.
Sarah
(not happy)
You're what?!
INT. THE HALLWAY - DAY
Theresa is doing a large Rough Sketch on the wall with a
Charcoal Stick. She wears an old Paint Spattered Smock.
Theresa
(shouting)
I'm going to paint a mural!
After a beat, Sarah comes down the Hallway.
Sarah
(laughing)
What are you wearing?
Theresa
Hey, this is my lucky smock. I got it in
Florence.
Sarah
As in Florence, Italy?
Theresa
Yeah. I studied fine art there for three
years.
Sarah
Wow.
(indicating Sketch)
So, what are you doing here?
Theresa
I thought I'd do a full wall mural of the
Italian countryside.
Sarah
That would be fucking intense.
Theresa
I want us to really make this place our own.
Sarah
Mirrors on the living room to make it
bigger?
Theresa
(enthusiastic)
Totally! And wall sconces and track lights
and...
Sarah
(laughing)
A Temple of Excess.
Theresa
Exactly perfect.
Gretchen (o.s.)
Hey, you guys!
Sarah looks at Theresa questioningly. Theresa shrugs.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
Sarah and Theresa enter. Megan peels Foil off a Champagne
Bottle, but no Gretchen.
Megan
(smiles)
Hey.
Sarah
(smiles)
Hey, yourself. Where's Miss "Gee"?
Gretchen
(enters with Glasses)
Right here.
Theresa
So, what's the occasion?
Megan 'pops' the Bottle.
Megan
Preliminary house warming.
Gretchen hands out Glasses. Megan pours.
Megan
I was wondering, what are the house rules?
Sarah
(grins)
No fucking in the living room.
Theresa
Unless it's a party.
Sarah
Right. And no live-in boyfriends.
Theresa
(smirking at Sarah)
Or girlfriends.
Sarah
Or dogs.
Sarah makes a 'licking' gesture with her tongue at Theresa.
Gretchen
And we all take care of each other.
They all look at Gretchen soberly.
Sarah
(soft)
Yeah. We all take care of each other.
Megan
I like these rules.
Sarah
(raises her glass)
Well, then, here's to the Women's Temple
of Excess!
The rest of the Women raise their Glasses.
All
The Women's Temple of Excess!
They 'up-end' their Glasses. Sarah throws her Glass into
the Fireplace. The others laugh, throw their Glasses too.
INT. THE KITCHEN - DAY
The place is covered with drop cloths. Megan and Gretchen
paint the Cabinets a bright Yellow. They wear Painter's
Hats, Old Clothes.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
Megan and Theresa hold a large Mirror up against the wall.
Sarah, on a Ladder, bolts down the Mirror with a Power
Drill. Gretchen hands her Bolts. One Mirror is already
fixed to the wall. Several more Mirrors lean against the
far wall.
INT. THE BIG BATHROOM - DAY
Sarah washes the Sink. Megan sits in the Tub, cleaning the
fixtures with a Toothbrush.
INT. "ITALIAN" HALLWAY - DAY
One wall is Covered with a Mural of the Italian Country-
side. The other wall is half-done. Theresa, in her "Lucky
Smock", paints in a Detail with a Tiny Brush, paint on her
face, totally focused.
EXT. THE HOUSE - DAY
At the side of the House, Gretchen and Megan wash Windows.
INT. THE FOYER - DAY
Sarah drills a hole in the wall. Further down, Theresa
stands on a Ladder, stapling wires that run from a Gaudy
Wall Sconce to the Ceiling. White X-mas Lights run along
the edge of the wall and the ceiling.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
The Mirrors are all up, Embroidered Cloth is draped over
the top of the Mirrors, X-mas lights line the edge of wall
and ceiling, the Ceiling is painted with Clouds.
The Women are all dressed up. Gretchen and Theresa light
candles on a Little Table in the middle of the floor, while
Sarah and Megan 'cleanse' the room with Burning Sage.
cut to:
The Women sit quietly in a circle on the floor around the
Little Table. Their eyes are closed and they hold hands.
After a beat...
Sarah
I call to the Divine Spirit within to
protect and cherish our precious home.
I ask that Divine Love fall upon those
who live here and those who enter. And
so it is.
All
And so it is.
They open their eyes, look at each other with loving
smiles. SOUND of DOORBELL RINGING.
Sarah
(excited whisper)
It's time to party!
cut to:
The Living Room is jammed. PUNKERS, BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE, HIP
GEEKS, GLAM ROCKERS, INTERESTING SQUAREHEADS, BODY BUILD-
ERS. MUSIC BLASTS. Everyone Talks, Drinks, and Smokes.
Some find space to Dance, including Sarah and Gretchen.
INT. THE FOYER - NIGHT
People 'hang', 'BS', come and go. Bobby enters, takes in
the scene, laughs incredulously.
INT. THE KITCHEN - NIGHT
It's full of people as well. Theresa and Megan are putting
Drinks, Plastic Cups, Ice on the Big Table. Bobby enters,
sees Theresa. She smiles brightly, gives him a big hug and
kiss.
Theresa
I'm so glad you're here.
(looks around)
Isn't this great?
Bobby
Aren't the neighbors complaining?
Theresa
The neighbors are all here!
Bobby
(grins)
You gals are fucking amazing.
Megan comes up, smiles at Bobby.
Megan
You're a pretty hip landlord.
Bobby
Hipper than I knew.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Bobby looks around at the People and the Decor. Sarah,
dancing, smiles and waves. Bobby waves back. She sweeps her
arms to indicate the room. Bobby gives her a 'thumbs up'.
Bobby
Fucking amazing.
A LOUDER SONG BLASTS OUT, People CHEER. Bobby dives into
the Crowd, starts dancing.
INT. "ITALIAN" HALLWAY - NIGHT
Sarah 'makes out' with a CUTE GUY, 20's, in the doorway of
her Bedroom. She pushes the door closed.
cut to:
Megan 'makes out' with a CUTE GUY, 20's, in the doorway of
her Bedroom. She pushes the door closed.
cut to:
Theresa 'makes out' with a CUTE GUY, 20's, in the doorway
of her Bedroom. She pushes the door closed.
cut to:
Gretchen 'makes out' with a CUTE GUY, 20's, in the doorway
of her Bedroom. He pushes the door closed.
INT. THE FOYER - DAY
Sarah, in a Bathrobe, and her Cute Guy say goodbye in the
open doorway. He's still 'hot', trying to kiss her. She is
'so over it'.
Sarah's cute guy
You rocked my world, baby.
Sarah
(thin smile)
Yeah, it was fun.
(slowly pushing him out the door)
Call me sometime...like next month.
He's about to reply when a 'COMMOTION' is heard. They both
look towards the SOUND. Theresa, in a T-shirt, comes toward
the door with her Cute Guy, 'frog-marching' him by his
Collar and the Back of his Pants. She's pissed. His Shirt
and Pants are half undone, he's holding his Leather Jacket,
and a Shoe. Sarah steps back as Theresa roars past, throws
her Cute Guy out onto the Walkway.
Theresa
YOU DISGUSTING LITTLE PIECE OF SHIT!
Sarah's Cute Guy looks at Theresa in dismay as she slams
the door in his face. Theresa notices a Jacket on the
floor, picks it up, opens Door, throws it at her Cute Guy,
who is just getting up. Sarah's Guy still stands there.
Theresa goes to slam the door, notices a Shoe, picks it up,
throws it, hits her Cute Guy. He goes down. Sarah's Guy
flinches. Theresa slams the door, growls.
Sarah
(calmly)
Yeah?
Theresa
(vehement)
He peed all over the toilet seat!
Sarah
(crinkles face in disgust)
EWEEEEEW!!!
Then Sarah starts laughing.
Theresa
What's so fucking funny!?!
Sarah
What's his name? Did you see his face?
Sarah laughs harder. Theresa reflects a moment, then starts
laughing, too, which gets Sarah going more.
INT. THE KITCHEN - DAY
Megan, in a Japanese Robe, 'ciggy' hanging from her lips,
pins Polaroids of the party to a Corkboard with the Sign:
"Party of the Month", on the wall by the Kitchen Door.
Gretchen is sitting at the Big Table with her Cute Guy,
drinking coffee. He smiles sweetly at her, she blushes.
Sarah and Theresa enter laughing. Megan smiles at them.
Megan
Good morning.
Both of them grab Megan, hug and kiss her happily.
Sarah
Was that a fucking great party, or what?!
Theresa
Yeah, let's do it again tonight!
Megan
I've got a better idea. Tonight, we're
going club hopping. My treat.
Sarah
Fuckin-A!
Theresa
Cool!
Sarah then notices Gretchen's Cute Guy.
Gretchen's cute guy
(smiling sweetly)
Hi.
Sarah has an evil smile, whispers to Theresa and Megan.
They both laugh.
Megan
I think I'll just watch.
Sarah and Theresa go to a Drawer, each pull out a large
Carving Knife. They hold up the Knives, look at Cute Guy.
Sarah
Let's cut off his dick.
theresa
Yeah, an inch at a time.
Sarah
Nah, that would go too fast.
They "psycho" laugh.
Gretchen's Cute Guy
(turns pale, gets up quickly)
Ahh...I have to go now.
He runs into the Kitchen Doorframe, recovers, keeps going.
Sarah and Theresa laugh. SOUND of FRONTDOOR SLAMMING.
Gretchen
(laughing shyly)
He was kind of clingy.
EXT. CLUB - NIGHT
It's some funky, Anonymous Looking Club in Hollywood. The
Women exit the Club, laughing, 'carrying on'. They all wear
BLACK.
man's voice(o.s.)
Hey, Sarah! Sarah!
Sarah looks around, rolls her eyes. The Women look, too.
Sarah
Oh, God! It's fucking Joey.
JOEY, good looking, 20's, waves from in front of the Club.
He has just exited with several GUY FRIENDS, 20's. Sarah
turns forward, keeps walking. She's not happy.
Theresa
Who's fucking Joey?
Sarah
Ignore him. He's an idiot. Thinks cause
I sucked his dick a few times, we're in
love.
They walk a few paces. Suddenly, Joey, right behind them,
grabs Sarah's arm, spins her around, his expression ugly.
Joey
(snarling)
What's your fucking problem, bitch!?!
Sarah seems stunned.
Joey
You think you can just...
Sarah
(tries to pull away)
Get the fuck off me!
Theresa goes at Joey, hitting and clawing.
Theresa
YOU FUCKING LITTLE SHITHEAD!
Joey goes to take a swing at Theresa. Megan breaks a beer
bottle on his head. He falls to his knees. Furious, the
Women start to punch and kick him.
Click here for Part 2
FADE IN
INT. SCREENING ROOM - NIGHT
Packed house. Images flicker on the screen. TOTAL SILENCE.
C/U of WOMAN in AUDIENCE: SARAH CUNNINGHAM, 28, gorgeous,
intense, watches the Screen, hypnotized.
ON SCREEN:
INT. PASSENGER TRAIN DINING CAR - DAY
C/U SARAH: sitting at table gazing peacefully out the
window. CAMERA PANS and PULLS BACK: out the window, the
magnificent Southwestern landscape rolls by.
EXT. PASSENGER TRAIN DINING CAR - DAY
Sarah looks out window through reflection of landscape.
cut to:
OVERHEAD SHOT of the BRIGHT SILVER TRAIN traveling through
landscape. CAMERA PULLS BACK and UP until the Train is a
silver thread against the landscape, and it...
fades to black:
SOUND of APPLAUSE, MUFFLED and DISTANT.
INT. SCREENING ROOM - NIGHT
SOUND of MUFFLED APPLAUSE. C/U Sarah as Lights come up.
She seems to 'come out of a daze', stands, smiles almost
convincingly. She wears a simple Black Evening Gown. A
MIXED CROWD of attractive WELL DRESSED PEOPLE, surrounds
her. They smile and 'talk at her'. SOUND OF UNINTELLIGIBLE
MUFFLED, 'INSECT-LIKE' CHATTERING.
In a far corner of the Screening Room stands MEGAN MAYALL,
20's, tall, skinny, exotic, wearing a Black T-Shirt and
Jeans. She is bruised and bloody, but no one notices her.
She watches Sarah with great intensity. TOTAL SILENCE.
INT. RESTAURANT - NIGHT
An elegant, 'up-scale' establishment. MUFFLED SOUND of B/G
RESTAURANT NOISE. Sarah sits at Large Table with TWO DOZEN
PEOPLE (all from screening). Everyone, including Sarah is
very animated. Service people come and go.
Across the Room, against a wall, 'Bruised' Megan stands,
watches. TOTAL SILENCE.
INT. CONFERENCE ROOM - DAY
Spacious Room, with Long, Polished Wood Table in center,
and Large Panoramic Windows. Sarah sits at Table, with a
HALF-DOZEN 'MEN IN SUITS', 20's/30's. She stares out the
window, as the 'Suits' go over Legal Papers. MUFFLED SOUND
of B/G CONVERSATION ECHOES.
Behind Sarah, in the back of the room, 'Bruised' Megan
watches her stare out the Window.
INT. 'GREENROOM' - NIGHT
Small, neat room, with a large T.V. Monitor up on the wall:
a 'Talkshow' is in progress, SOUND MUFFLED.
C/U Sarah wearing make-up bib over an Elegant Pantsuit. She
sips from a Styrofoam cup, expression blank, watches the
monitor. 'Bruised' Megan sits under the Monitor looking at
Sarah. TOTAL SILENCE. The SOUND of LOUD KNOCKING startles
Sarah. The Door opens. A 'PERKY' YOUNG WOMAN in a Blazer
enters, smiles brightly.
Blazer Woman
You're next, Miss Cunningham.
Sarah
(distracted)
Yes.
(snaps out of it)
Okay. Let's do it.
She stands, pulls off bib, exits with Blazer Woman. Megan
sits watching the Monitor: after a beat, Sarah walks onto
'Talkshow', sits. She is very animated. TOTAL SILENCE.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
C/U T.V. SCREEN: Sarah on "Talkshow", laughing, gesturing,
SOUND MUFFLED.
Sarah, in sweats, sits on a couch, watches T.V., expression
blank. CLAIRE, a TABBY CAT, sleeps in her lap. MAX, a BLACK
CAT, sleeps further down the couch. The Apartment is large,
spacious, tastefully furnished, lots of bookshelves and art
work. Several paces behind the couch, Megan stands and wat-
ches. TOTAL SILENCE.
cut to:
C/U T.V. SCREEN: Sarah on second 'Talkshow', laughing, etc.
SOUND MUFFLED.
cut to:
C/U VIDEOTAPE DECK: a Tape ejects.
Sarah takes the Tape out, puts in another Tape.
cut to:
C/U T.V. SCREEN: Sarah on third 'Talkshow', etc. SOUND
MUFFLED.
Sarah sits on couch watching blankly. Megan stands across
the room, staring.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BEDROOM - NIGHT
In the darkened room, Sarah lays in bed, stares at ceiling.
dissolve to:
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BEDROOM - DAWN
Sarah hasn't moved. She looks at the light from the window,
her expression bleak.
EXT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BALCONY - DAY
Sarah comes out onto the Balcony, squints at the light. She
looks like hell. She stands at the Railing, looks out. The
view is of the Santa Monica Beachfront, Ocean Ave. etc.
Over her shoulder, Megan watches from inside the living
room. Sarah 'senses' this, turns in a fury.
Sarah
WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM ME?!
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - DAY
Megan looks at a Desk in a corner, then back at Sarah
outside.
Megan
You know exactly what I want.
Sarah, grim-faced, comes inside, screams, picks up a chair,
throws it, but Megan has vanished. Sarah 'rages': knocks
over the Furniture, breaks things, cries.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BATHROOM - DAY
Sarah writes the words "I HATE YOU!!" on the Mirror in
Blood Red Lipstick.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
The room has Take-Out Containers laying all over. The
Furniture is still scattered about.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BEDROOM - NIGHT
The Closet is open, Dresser Drawers are pulled out, Clothes
are scattered everywhere. Sarah is under the covers. Max
and Claire nudge her, MEOW plaintively. She doesn't move.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - DAWN
Max and Claire scavenge from Take-Out Containers.
C/U of ANSWERING MACHINE: The RED LED reads '17'. SOUND of
a 'CLICK-CLUNK'. The LED changes to '18'.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - DAY
The place is even more of a 'shithouse'. Sarah frantically
sets up an Easel. Her sweats are stained, her hair a mess.
cut to:
Sarah violently Paints a 'screaming face', all Blacks and
Reds.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BEDROOM - DAY
The Room is still a disaster. Sarah sits in Bed, writing in
a Journal. C/U JOURNAL PAGE: she writes "God, Please help
me!". She puts the pen down with a look of deep sadness.
cut to:
Sarah kneels next to the bed, prays.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/KITCHEN - DAY
Sarah feeds Max and Claire.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - DAY
Sarah picks up trash, puts it in a Garbage Bag.
cut to:
Sarah vacuuming. The Furniture has been straightened up.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BEDROOM - DAY
Sarah folds Clothing, puts it in Dresser Drawer.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BATHROOM - NIGHT
Sarah wipes the Lipstick off the Mirror.
cut to:
Sarah stands in the Shower, bows her head under Steaming
Hot Water.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/BEDROOM - NIGHT
Sarah sleeps peacefully, Max and Claire curled up next to
her.
EXT. RUNYAN CANYON PARK - DAWN
Sarah hikes up the Trail. It is a gorgeous morning.
CUT TO:
Sarah sits on a Bench on the top of the hill looking out at
the Vista of Los Angeles. She is contemplative.
INT. SARAH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - DAY
Sarah enters, goes to the desk, opens the drawer, takes out
a Large Accordion Envelope.
cut to:
She sits on the couch going through the envelope. She pulls
out spiral notebooks, glances through them. Then she takes
out a PHOTO, looks at it intently.
C/U PHOTO: FOUR BEAUTIFUL WOMEN, DRESSED in BLACK, ARM in
ARM, LAUGHING, somewhere at NIGHT. Sarah is one of them.
Another is Megan. (The TWO other WOMEN we saw at the
'screening')
cut to:
Sarah picks up the phone, dials.
Sarah
Hey, Bobby, it's Sarah. What are you doing
right now?
EXT. THE HOUSE - DAY
It's a sweet little House, tucked into a Hillside, on an
Inclined Street. A funky, OPEN-TOPPED SCOUT pulls up in
front, stops. Sarah drives. She looks at the House wist-
fully.
INT. THE FOYER - DAY
Semi-Darkness. SOUND of DOOR LOCK BEING OPENED. The Front
Door swings in, letting in the Daylight. The place is wond-
erful. No one has lived here for a while. Sarah enters slo-
wly, nervously.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
It's not big, but is open and airy, with a Hardwood Floor
and Fireplace. Sarah enters, looks around.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)
The room is outrageously decorated. SOUND of LOUD MUSIC.
DOZENS of PEOPLE dance and laugh.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
Sarah stands in the empty room. She smiles slightly.
INT. THE HALLWAY - DAY
A Hallway with Doors on either side, with the Living Room
at one end, a Door at the other. Sarah comes down the
Hallway, opens a Door.
INT. BEDROOM - DAY
Sarah stands in the Doorway contemplating the Room. It is
small, has a high ceiling, is very well lit.
INT. BEDROOM - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)
It's RAINING outside, with THUNDER and LIGHTNING. In the
Bed, TWO NAKED WOMEN passionately intertwined, MOANING and
CRYING OUT. We can't see their faces.
INT. BEDROOM - DAY
Sarah wets her lips, sighs deeply, closes the Door.
INT. THE HALLWAY - DAY
Sarah stands in front of the Door at the end of the Hall-
way. She seems very uptight.
Sarah
(sotto voce)
Okay, let's do it.
She grabs the Knob and pushes the door open.
INT. THE BIG BATHROOM - DAY
It's an amazing bathroom. Good sized, Tile Floors, Old Fix-
tures, a Huge Tub. Sarah looks into the Room with fear.
INT. THE BIG BATHROOM - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)
The Room is filled with Candles, the Tub is filled with
Blood. In the Doorway, Sarah stands transfixed. Suddenly,
the Surface of the Blood begins to Bubble.
INT. THE HALLWAY - DAY
Sarah quickly steps back into the Hallway, pulls the Door
closed.
Sarah
(mutters)
Fuck.
The SOUND of MOVEMENT elsewhere in the House startles her.
Man's Voice (o.s.)
Sarah? Sarah, are you here?
Sarah
(relaxes, smiles with relief)
Yeah, Bobby, I'm here.
She walks down the Hallway.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
Sarah enters. Waiting there is BOBBY AVENEL, 40, tall, good
looking, heavy set. He smiles warmly. (We saw him at the
screening)
Bobby
Hey, babe.
Sarah
Hi, Bobby.
They hug.
Bobby
I see your old key still works.
(looks around)
It's funny, but I just couldn't sell this
place before. Or even rent it. In fact,
this is the first time I've been back
since...back then.
Sarah
Same here.
Bobby
Sarah, are you sure about this?
Sarah
Yes. It's what I have to do.
Bobby
Okay. But if you change your mind, I'll
give you a full refund.
Sarah
Thanks.
There is an awkward silence.
Bobby
Well, then, I guess your lawyer will call
my lawyer.
Sarah hugs him very tightly.
Sarah
Thank you for this, Bobby.
Bobby
Anything for my leading lady.
(goes to exit)
Look, what ever you need...
Sarah
I know.
Bobby
Okay.
He blows her a kiss, exits. She looks around the empty
room.
dissolve to:
The room is furnished with things from Sarah's Apartment.
It 'feels homey'. Max and Claire chase each other around
the room.
INT. THE LITTLE BATHROOM - DAY
It's a lot like the Big Bathroom, but half the size, with
only a shower stall. Sarah, wrapped in a towel, brushes her
wet hair.
INT. THE HALLWAY - DAY
Sarah walks down the Hallway. Max follows her, MEOWS. She
picks him up, cuddles him.
Sarah
(cutesy)
Ooooo, my little Max.
He PURRS. She looks at the door at the end of the Hallway.
cut to:
Sarah stands in front of the door, opens it.
INT. THE BIG BATHROOM - DAY
It's empty and unused. Sarah moves to enter. Max GROWLS,
starts struggling, jumps out of her arms.
Sarah
Max, what's the matter?
Max arches his back, HISSES at the room, runs back down the
Hallway.
INT. THE HALLWAY - DAY
Sarah closes the door, a bit unnerved.
Sarah
This can wait.
As she goes back down the Hallway, we can see that some of
the Bedrooms have been turned into an Exercise Room and a
Video Editing Room.
INT. THE KITCHEN - DAY
It's an open area with Big Windows, a Professional Stove, a
Large Refrigerator, a lot of Cabinets and Counter Space, a
Classic B&W Checkerboard Linoleum Floor, and a large Table.
Sarah sits at the Table, drinks tea, writes on a notepad.
INT. SARAH'S WRITING ROOM - DAY
One of the Bedrooms. It has a Workstation with a Computer,
Monitor, Printer, etc. The "FOUR WOMEN" PHOTO, now framed,
sits on a shelf, 'line of sight'. Sarah is at the Computer.
She cracks her knuckles, starts typing.
C/U COMPUTER SCREEN:
The words "FOUR WOMEN TOGETHER an Original Screenplay by
Sarah Cunningham".
dissolve to black:
WIDESCREEN TITLE CARD
FOUR WOMEN TOGETHER
dissolve to:
INT. CASTING OFFICE - DAY
A small space, well-lit, nicely furnished. On the walls,
Actor's Headshots. A DOZEN BEAUTIFUL 'TWENTYSOMETHING'
ACTRESSES in 'cute little dresses', sit in Chairs lined
against the walls, posture, pose, studiously ignoring each
other. At a Desk, a YOUNG MAN, handsome, 20's, goes over
lists of names. He looks bored.
Sarah (v.o.)
It's funny how things work out.
A Headshot of Sarah is tossed on the Desk, startling him.
He looks up to see...Sarah.
Sarah
(very sexy smile)
Hi.
He blushes, smiles, hands her a Clipboard with a Form on
it. He seems like he'd like to say something, but can't.
Sarah
Thanks.
As she turns from him, her smiles drops away. She surveys
the room.
Sarah (v.o.)
Sometimes a casual conversation changes
your whole life.
Across the room is an Empty Chair between TWO BEAUTIFUL
WOMEN. With a few long strides, she arrives at the Empty
Chair. She pauses for a moment, as the Two Women make room.
Sarah sits down, looks over at the Woman on her right.
GRETCHEN FARRAR, 27, quiet, ethereal, sits shyly, keeping
a 'low profile'. Sarah looks at the Woman on her left.
THERESA MOLYNEAUX, 27, high strung, angular, reads her
'sides' with a 'Don't bother me' energy. (We recognize
them both from the PHOTO and the screening) Sarah sighs,
fills out the Form.
cut to:
Sarah, eyes glazing, reads the 'sides'. She puts them down,
takes a Book from her Bag, starts reading it. The Book is
titled: "A Simple Guide to Auric Healing." Gretchen and
Theresa simultaneously take notice of the Book.
Sarah
(smiles at them)
It's a totally incredible book. Look.
She turns to a Chart of the Human Body surrounded by
different Colored Outlines.
Sarah
You see, it shows how the Energetic Body
extends beyond the physical body.
Gretchen
Wow. I've seen other charts, but, this is..
Theresa
(authoritatively)
Concise and radical.
Sarah and Gretchen look at her in amazement.
Theresa
(smiles casually, shrugs)
The woman I do crystal work with has studied
with him.
(indicates the Book)
That's what she said.
Sarah gives her a big smile, puts her hand out.
Sarah
I'm Sarah Cunningham.
Theresa
Theresa Molyneaux.
They shake hands. An intense energy seems to pass between
them, which Sarah 'breaks' by turning to Gretchen.
gretchen
(smiles sweetly)
Gretchen Farrar.
Gretchen shakes hands with Sarah, then Theresa.
Sarah
You know, I totally hate auditions. They
make me want to jump out of my skin.
Theresa
Tell me about it.
Gretchen
You get used to them.
Sarah
Yeah, but you never like them.
Gretchen
Well no, not really. Not me, anyway.
After a beat, Gretchen goes into her Bag, pulls out a small
Velvet Pouch.
Gretchen
I just bought these a few days ago.
She takes out a Deck of Tarot Cards out of the Pouch,
'fans' them, revealing a Set of incredible beauty.
Sarah
(eyes widen)
Oh, my God! Those are amazing.
Gretchen smiles with satisfaction, makes to hand the Deck
to Sarah.
Gretchen
Here.
Sarah
Are you sure? I mean, it's your deck.
Gretchen
It's okay. Your energy feels good.
Sarah smiles warmly, takes the Deck.
Sarah
Whoa. These are intense.
cut to:
Sarah, Clipboard across her lap, shuffles the Tarot Deck on
top of it.
Sarah
So, what do we want to ask?
Theresa
Ask it about us.
Gretchen
Yes, that's a good one. Chance meetings.
Sarah
Okay, concentrate as I shuffle.
Gretchen and Theresa watch Sarah intensely as she shuffles,
then places the Deck flat on the Clipboard.
Sarah
Okay, now each of you cut the deck once.
And use your left hand only.
Gretchen and Theresa 'cut the Deck'. Sarah cuts the Deck,
puts the stacks together, pulls a Card, places it face up.
Her eyes widen, she laughs abruptly.
Sarah
Holy Shit!
Gretchen and Theresa look at the Card, smile.
C/U THE CARD: Three Women Dancing in a circle, holding Cups
raised over their heads.
Theresa
I take it that this is a good omen.
Sarah
It's the Three of Cups. It's a card about
shared experience. Positive shared experience.
Theresa
(skeptical)
So, we're supposed to all become friends?
Gretchen
I think we already are.
The Young Man comes up to them.
Young Man
Gretchen Farrar?
(sees the Cards, smirks)
What is this? MacBeth?
Simultaneously, the Women place their hands together on the
Cards, cackle theatrically. He steps back involuntarily.
The other Women in the room start laughing hysterically.
He smiles with embarrassment. The Women look at each other,
smile warmly.
Sarah (v.o.)
Obviously, this was fate.
INT. ROCK CLIMBING SCHOOL - DAY
C/U OF SARAH'S FACE: She Screams, Laughs uproariously.
Sarah
THIS IS FUCKING RIDICULOUS!
She wears Climbing Gear, hangs sideways on an Artificial
Cliff Face in a large Gym-like room. Theresa is above her,
Gretchen below. Neither one of them is doing all that
great, but everyone is laughing.
INT. GRETCHEN'S APARTMENT - DAY
A tiny place full of Bookshelves and Plants. Gretchen and
Sarah sit side by side before a Keyboard singing together.
Gretchen plays. They look happy, sound beautiful.
INT. FENCING STUDIO - DAY
Two Women fence vigorously. They wear White Padded Fencing
Suits, and Wire Mesh Masks. They Parry and Thrust, with
tremendous energy. SOUND of SWORDS CLASHING ECHOES LOUDLY.
Finally, one Woman 'scores' the other. The 'loser' pulls
off her Mask: Theresa.
Theresa
(pissed)
Fuck!
She throws the Mask down to punctuate the expletive. The
'winner' pulls off her Mask: Sarah.
Sarah
(laughs)
Kicked your ass, dude!
This pisses Theresa off even more. She grabs her Mask off
the floor, gestures with her Sword.
Theresa
I'm going to ram this up your ass!
Sarah
(laughs)
In your dreams, honey.
The Studio Door opens. Gretchen sticks her head in.
Gretchen
Are you guys almost done?
Sarah
Sure. This won't take but a minute.
Theresa growls, puts on her Mask. Sarah puts on her Mask.
They 'go at' each other.
Gretchen
(makes a face)
I think I'll get a Latte'.
She withdraws.
INT. FENCING STUDIO HALLWAY - DAY
SOUND of SWORDS CLASHING ECHOES behind Gretchen, then..
Theresa (o.s.)
FUCK!
INT. CASTING OFFICE - DAY
The Office is funkier than the first one, but basically the
same, i.e. Headshots on walls, ACTRESSES sitting around.
The door opens, the Women troop in, walk up to a 'WELL
WORN' WOMAN, late 40's, at a Desk, place their Headshots
on her Desk, side by side. She looks at them in disbelief.
Woman
What are you, a sister act?
The Women just laugh.
INT. CLUB - NIGHT
"The Scene". Lots of 'YOUNG HOLLYWOOD' TYPES bullshit each
other, Smoke, Drink, get "pounded" by Loud Rock Music. The
Women sit in a Booth with THREE HANDSOME YOUNG MEN, 20's.
All Smoke, Drink. Gretchen's date is intense, talks her ear
off. She's 'zoned out'. The Two Young Men with Theresa and
Sarah are glum 'JAMES DEAN WANNABES'.
Sarah
I'm so fucking broke, I can't believe it.
Theresa
There's a job open at the Hot Box.
Sarah
Hello? Brain Dead! I'm not going to be a
fucking stripper!
Theresa
It's not that! It's what I do. You know,
cocktail waitress.
A good looking GUY, 24, passes the Table, smiles at Sarah.
She gives him a coy smile.
Theresa
You'll make good tips. And I'll be working
the same shift.
Sarah
What do I have to wear?
Theresa
Well, basically, your underwear.
Sarah
Fuck.
(deep breath)
Okay, when can I start?
Man's Voice (o.s.)
Hey, Theresa!
They look up and see Bobby. He smiles brightly. Theresa
smiles back.
Theresa
Bobby. How are you?
Bobby
Can't complain. Yourself?
Theresa
Good. I'm doing good.
Bobby eyes 'James Dean' #1, looks at Theresa, smiles slyly.
Bobby
I'm shooting a music video in a few weeks
and I need some beautiful girls. Descent
money. You interested?
Theresa
Sure.
Bobby
(hands her a Card, grins)
Call me, babe.
Bobby blows her a kiss, moves on.
Sarah
Who was that?
Theresa
Bobby Avenel. He's directed a couple of small
films. I think he's interested in me.
Sarah
Girl, he's totally interested.
Theresa leans close to Sarah, whispers conspiratorially.
Theresa
You want to dance?
Sarah
Yeah, let's do it.
Theresa
(to 'James Dean' #1)
We're going to the little girl's room.
Sarah practically pushes 'James Dean' #2 out of the Booth.
Theresa follows, then turns to Gretchen, grabs her arm.
Theresa
C'mon. You gotta pee.
She pulls Gretchen out of the Booth. The Three Women walk
off arm in arm.
EXT. "HOT BOX" - NIGHT
Sarah sits in her Car, looking at the Flashing Lights on
the side of the Building. She is not a happy girl.
INT. DRESSING ROOM - NIGHT
It's a nasty little rat hole. Overlit, Floor to Ceiling
Mirrors, a few Chairs, some Lockers. Sarah stands in front
of the Mirrors wearing Stiletto Heals, Fishnet Stockings,
a G-String, and a Bustier, all in Black.
Sarah
I can't fucking believe this.
Theresa walks up. She wears the identical outfit in Red.
Sarah turns around, looks at her ass basically hanging
out naked.
Sarah
I can't fucking believe this.
Theresa
(smiles)
I think you look hot.
Sarah
(harsh)
Oh, God. Get over it!
Theresa's hurt. Sarah softens, gives her a hug and kiss.
Sarah
I'm sorry. I'm just freaking out.
Theresa
You'll do fine. C'mon, follow me.
Theresa turns to the Door, opens it. LOUD MUSIC washes into
the room. Sarah takes a deep breath, walks to the door,
stops.
Sarah
Oh, shit.
INT. HOT BOX - NIGHT
The Room is jammed with MEN of EVERY TYPE. A TRASHY LOOKING
GIRL, 20's, with "enhanced assets" and a G-String, is up on
the Stage, rubbing her crotch against a Big Brass Pole. Men
Shout, Throw Money at her. Sarah stands in the Dressing
Room Doorway.
Sarah
(mutters)
Fuck me hard.
AUDIO DISSOLVE from 'HOT BOX' ROCK TRACK
to another, 'NASTIER' ROCK TRACK:
INT. SOUND STAGE - DAY
FOUR 'SKANKY' PRETTY-BOY ROCKERS, 20's, play in front of
a Blue Screen. They are totally "full of themselves". The
Bass Drum has the words "SPOOGE MONKEY" on it's front.
The Women, wearing sexy little Cheerleader Outfits, Dance
around the Band. They are having fun. Bobby sits in a
Directors Chair next to the Camera. He is not a happy boy.
He looks at his Watch.
Bobby
Cut!
After a beat, the Music Playback stops. This has caught
"Spooge Monkey" unawares. They are upset.
Monkey #1
Hey, man! We were just getting our groove.
Bobby
I got the shot I needed. And it's time for
lunch.
(looks around to the CREW, shouts)
Lunch! One hour!
The Crew scatters. Monkey #1 comes up to Bobby, followed by
the rest of the Band.
Monkey #1
Hey, man. We don't have to take this shit
from anybody.
Bobby gives him an "Are you talking to me?" look. The Women
gather beside Bobby. They look ready to fight.
Monkey #1
(sneers)
Your bitches think they're tough?
Sarah
Hey, fuck you, you pinky little dick mother
fucker!
Woman's Voice (o.s.)
Are we having a problem here?
Everyone looks toward the SOUND of the VOICE. MEGAN strides
into the Sound Stage. She is dressed 'uber-hip': Black mini
dress, wrap-around sunglasses, and high-heeled, pointy-toed
'combat boots'. MONKEY #1 gives her an 'Oh, shit! look.
Monkey #1
Ahh...No problem, Megan. It's just that-
Megan
It's just that you're a fucking prima donna.
Bobby and the Women try not to smile.
Monkey #1
C'mon, man. He was treating us like..Well,
disrespectful, you know. Wouldn't even let
us use our own chicks in the video.
Megan
That's 'cause your chicks look like cover
girls for Crack Whore Magazine.
Monkey #1
Fuck this! We're fucking out of here!
Megan
('gets in his face')
Listen up, asshole! I'm the senior management
representative of Catatonic Records on site,
and you fucking faggots are into us for close
to six figures, so you'll do what the fuck
you're told, or you'll wind up on welfare,
and I'll attach your fucking welfare checks
too, if I have to! You got that?!
Monkey #1 'wilts'. The other Band Members step back.
Monkey #1
(small)
Yes.
Megan
Yes, what!?
Monkey #1
(swallows)
Yes, sir..ahh..Ma'am.
Megan
Good. Now get out of here.
Monkey #1
(whiny)
What about our lunch?
Megan digs into her bag, pulls out a Fifty Dollar Bill.
Megan
Go get yourselves some Tommy Burgers.
Monkey #1 starts to say something, changes his mind. The
Band shuffles out. Megan smiles at Bobby and the Women.
Megan
Hello, I'm Megan Mayall...
(looks directly at Gretchen, brightens)
Gretchen!
She and Gretchen hug and laugh.
Gretchen
Hi, sweety.
Megan
God, it's been for-fucking-ever.
Gretchen
Megan and I were teenage skateboarding punks
in Hollywood.
Sarah
I think I've got some of your records.
Megan smiles brightly at Sarah.
Sarah
I'm Sarah.
Megan
Hi.
There is energy between them.
Gretchen
And that's Theresa and Bobby.
Megan
Hi, Theresa. Bobby I know.
Bobby
You kicked some serious ass, babe.
Megan
Fuckers had it coming.
Bobby
By the way, where is their lunch?
Megan
I have the caterers waiting outside. I know
this fucking band, so I figured there would
be some kind of shit.
(grins)
So, we get to eat their lunch.
Theresa
Oh, we like this girl.
Megan winks at her.
cut to:
Everyone sits at a Large Table near the back of the Sound
Stage. It's got a 'great spread'. Megan 'pops' a Bottle of
Champagne. Sarah and Theresa "hoot and holler" as she fills
their glasses.
cut to:
Everyone eats.
Gretchen
..And there was this one time a bunch of
Vato's chased us down an alley.
(to Megan)
Remember?
Megan
Fuck, yeah. We'd been moshing at the Fudge.
I think we were 'Dusted', too. Real fucked
up, one way or another.
Gretchen
Yeah, trashed. You pulled that fucking
huge knife out.
Megan
(laughing)
Right. And you started throwing garbage
cans at them. They ran like whipped dogs.
Sarah
Our sweet little Miss "Gee", violent?
Gretchen
We were sixteen, and out on the street.
Megan
And ripped.
Gretchen
Big time.
cut to:
The conversation continues.
Sarah
...So "Gee's" got this guy camped out in
her apartment, and he won't leave.
Gretchen
He was sweet.
Theresa
He was a freak!
Gretchen
(wistful)
The sex was great.
Everyone laughs.
Sarah
And you couldn't get him out of your
apartment.
Gretchen
That's why I have you two as friends.
Bobby
(to Sarah and Theresa)
You two threw him out?
Sarah
Show a guy a gun and his attitude improves
real fast.
Theresa
Straight razors are also great attitude
adjusters.
Bobby
(impressed)
You really are some tough bitches.
Megan
Any feminist worth her salt packs some kind
of "iron".
Sarah
Damn straight, girl.
They 'high-five'.
cut to:
Megan 'pops' another bottle of Champagne.
Sarah
..God, that fucking job sucks so bad, you
have no idea.
Bobby
What's the job?
Sarah
Theresa and I serve booze to fat, loud-
mouthed assholes in our underwear.
bobby
And how do these assholes get in your under-
wear?
Sarah
The only asshole in my underwear is the
one I fart with.
Bobby
(laughs loudly)
I like you, babe. You've got a big dick.
Sarah
Fuckin-A right, I do!
Bobby is quiet for a moment, then looks at Sarah, Theresa,
and Gretchen.
Bobby
You know what? I've got a proposition for
you girls.
They raise their eyebrows at him.
Bobby
How much do you each pay for rent?
Sarah
Seven and a quarter.
Theresa
Seven fifty.
Gretchen
Six seventy five.
Bobby
Okay, here's the deal. I've got this place
up in the hills. Just kicked this shithead
out 'cause he was three months late. It's
got four bedrooms. They're tiny, but they've
got their own doors.
Theresa
How many bathrooms?
Bobby
Two and a half.
Sarah
So, how much?
Bobby
I've given up trying to make money as a
landlord, so I'll give it to you at my cost.
Twelve hundred and you pay the utilities.
It'll help clean up my karma.
The Women look at each other, smile, look back at Bobby.
The Women
(simultaneously)
Deal!
Bobby grins like 'the cat that ate the canary'.
Theresa
('fisheye's him')
What's the catch?
Bobby
(smiling)
You have to invite me to all your parties.
Sarah
(coy)
Even the lesbian parties?
Bobby
(brightly)
Especially the lesbian parties!
Gretchen
You said four bedrooms?
Bobby
Yeah.
Gretchen
Maybe we should get a fourth.
Bobby
No freaks.
Sarah
Hello? Excuse me! We're all freaks here.
Bobby
(whacks his forehead)
Now, how could I forget that?!
Sarah
Dude, you are so hilarious.
Gretchen
(to Megan)
How much do you pay for rent?
Megan looks a little uncomfortable.
Gretchen
I'm sorry, I only..
Megan looks at Sarah, who smiles warmly.
Megan
Twenty one hundred.
Sarah
Fuck! It better be a palace.
Megan
(shrugs)
It's a condo.
(pause)
If it's okay, I'd like to be your fourth.
Gretchen
Personally, I would be very happy to have you.
Theresa
Yeah, I like your style.
Sarah
(incredulous)
Why would you want to live with roommates?
Megan
I don't really like living alone, and I
definitely don't want to live with a
boyfriend.
Sarah
(grinning)
Well, that's perfectly reasonable.
Sarah looks at Bobby questioningly.
Bobby
Hey, she's cool with me.
Megan has an "aha", pulls out a small Velvet Pouch out of
her bag.
Megan
Are you familiar with the Tarot?
Sarah
Very.
Megan
Let's do a reading.
Sarah
Cool.
cut to:
Megan shuffles the Deck, places it on the Table. Each in
turn, the Women 'cut' the Deck. Megan pulls up the top
Card: The Three of Cups.
Sarah
Holy fucking shit!
Theresa
Jesus Christ!
Gretchen
That's our card.
Megan
Does that mean I'm in?
Sarah
(big smile)
Dude, you are totally fucking in.
Megan
Cool.
(NOTE: From now on, Megan is included in -THE WOMEN-)
Bobby
(taps his Glass)
I believe a toast is in order.
The Women pick up their Glasses, look to Bobby. He raises
his Glass.
Bobby
(wide grin)
Here's to freaks.
The Womem laugh, "CLINK" their glasses.
The Women
To Freaks!
EXT. THE HOUSE - DAY
The House is rather more run down than we first saw it.
The Women pull up in an OLD SEDAN. Sarah drives. As they
get out, they look at the House in wonderment.
INT. THE FOYER - DAY
Semi-darkness. SOUND of DOOR LOCK BEING OPENED. The Front
Door swings in, letting in the daylight. Sarah is the first
one in. She "coo's" with pleasure. Gretchen and Theresa are
right behind her. They smile brightly. Megan follows more
slowly.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
The Women enter, look around, amazed. Sarah smiles giddily.
Sarah
This place is so fucking rad!
Gretchen and Theresa head down the Hallway, excited. Sarah
keeps looking at the Living Room. Megan watches, smiles.
Sarah
(soft)
This place is so fucking rad.
INT. BEDROOM - DAY
Gretchen looks around the room, smiles happily.
Gretchen
Ohh, this is so cute.
Theresa (o.s.)
Oh, my God! You've got to see this!
INT. THE BIG BATHROOM - DAY
Theresa looks at the Tub like she wants to have sex with
it. Sarah and Megan come in, see the Tub. They're awed.
Sarah
Wow. There's enough room in there for two.
Theresa
Yeah.
Sarah
('gets serious')
Dude, this is going to have to be a communal
bathroom.
Theresa
(laughs)
Fucking Sarah.
Sarah laughs, too. They "high-five" as Gretchen enters.
Gretchen
What's going...
She sees the Tub, stops in her tracks.
Theresa
Isn't it awesome?
Gretchen
(hushed)
It's beautiful.
They all look at the Tub, sigh, then start laughing.
INT. THE KITCHEN - DAY
The Women enter together, smile happily upon seeing this
amazing Kitchen.
Sarah
(giddy)
OH-MY-GOD!
They start laughing happily. Sarah jumps up and down, grabs
Gretchen's and Theresa's hands, they grab Megan's hands,
and they Dance like little girls round in a circle in the
middle of the Kitchen.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
The place is an 'organized mess'. Sarah and Gretchen sit on
the floor in Sweats and T-shirts, unpacking. Sarah looks up
(but not at Gretchen). She seems annoyed.
Sarah
Dude, what the fuck are you doing?
Theresa(o.s.)
I'm working on the wall.
Sarah
(not happy)
You're what?!
INT. THE HALLWAY - DAY
Theresa is doing a large Rough Sketch on the wall with a
Charcoal Stick. She wears an old Paint Spattered Smock.
Theresa
(shouting)
I'm going to paint a mural!
After a beat, Sarah comes down the Hallway.
Sarah
(laughing)
What are you wearing?
Theresa
Hey, this is my lucky smock. I got it in
Florence.
Sarah
As in Florence, Italy?
Theresa
Yeah. I studied fine art there for three
years.
Sarah
Wow.
(indicating Sketch)
So, what are you doing here?
Theresa
I thought I'd do a full wall mural of the
Italian countryside.
Sarah
That would be fucking intense.
Theresa
I want us to really make this place our own.
Sarah
Mirrors on the living room to make it
bigger?
Theresa
(enthusiastic)
Totally! And wall sconces and track lights
and...
Sarah
(laughing)
A Temple of Excess.
Theresa
Exactly perfect.
Gretchen (o.s.)
Hey, you guys!
Sarah looks at Theresa questioningly. Theresa shrugs.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
Sarah and Theresa enter. Megan peels Foil off a Champagne
Bottle, but no Gretchen.
Megan
(smiles)
Hey.
Sarah
(smiles)
Hey, yourself. Where's Miss "Gee"?
Gretchen
(enters with Glasses)
Right here.
Theresa
So, what's the occasion?
Megan 'pops' the Bottle.
Megan
Preliminary house warming.
Gretchen hands out Glasses. Megan pours.
Megan
I was wondering, what are the house rules?
Sarah
(grins)
No fucking in the living room.
Theresa
Unless it's a party.
Sarah
Right. And no live-in boyfriends.
Theresa
(smirking at Sarah)
Or girlfriends.
Sarah
Or dogs.
Sarah makes a 'licking' gesture with her tongue at Theresa.
Gretchen
And we all take care of each other.
They all look at Gretchen soberly.
Sarah
(soft)
Yeah. We all take care of each other.
Megan
I like these rules.
Sarah
(raises her glass)
Well, then, here's to the Women's Temple
of Excess!
The rest of the Women raise their Glasses.
All
The Women's Temple of Excess!
They 'up-end' their Glasses. Sarah throws her Glass into
the Fireplace. The others laugh, throw their Glasses too.
INT. THE KITCHEN - DAY
The place is covered with drop cloths. Megan and Gretchen
paint the Cabinets a bright Yellow. They wear Painter's
Hats, Old Clothes.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - DAY
Megan and Theresa hold a large Mirror up against the wall.
Sarah, on a Ladder, bolts down the Mirror with a Power
Drill. Gretchen hands her Bolts. One Mirror is already
fixed to the wall. Several more Mirrors lean against the
far wall.
INT. THE BIG BATHROOM - DAY
Sarah washes the Sink. Megan sits in the Tub, cleaning the
fixtures with a Toothbrush.
INT. "ITALIAN" HALLWAY - DAY
One wall is Covered with a Mural of the Italian Country-
side. The other wall is half-done. Theresa, in her "Lucky
Smock", paints in a Detail with a Tiny Brush, paint on her
face, totally focused.
EXT. THE HOUSE - DAY
At the side of the House, Gretchen and Megan wash Windows.
INT. THE FOYER - DAY
Sarah drills a hole in the wall. Further down, Theresa
stands on a Ladder, stapling wires that run from a Gaudy
Wall Sconce to the Ceiling. White X-mas Lights run along
the edge of the wall and the ceiling.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
The Mirrors are all up, Embroidered Cloth is draped over
the top of the Mirrors, X-mas lights line the edge of wall
and ceiling, the Ceiling is painted with Clouds.
The Women are all dressed up. Gretchen and Theresa light
candles on a Little Table in the middle of the floor, while
Sarah and Megan 'cleanse' the room with Burning Sage.
cut to:
The Women sit quietly in a circle on the floor around the
Little Table. Their eyes are closed and they hold hands.
After a beat...
Sarah
I call to the Divine Spirit within to
protect and cherish our precious home.
I ask that Divine Love fall upon those
who live here and those who enter. And
so it is.
All
And so it is.
They open their eyes, look at each other with loving
smiles. SOUND of DOORBELL RINGING.
Sarah
(excited whisper)
It's time to party!
cut to:
The Living Room is jammed. PUNKERS, BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE, HIP
GEEKS, GLAM ROCKERS, INTERESTING SQUAREHEADS, BODY BUILD-
ERS. MUSIC BLASTS. Everyone Talks, Drinks, and Smokes.
Some find space to Dance, including Sarah and Gretchen.
INT. THE FOYER - NIGHT
People 'hang', 'BS', come and go. Bobby enters, takes in
the scene, laughs incredulously.
INT. THE KITCHEN - NIGHT
It's full of people as well. Theresa and Megan are putting
Drinks, Plastic Cups, Ice on the Big Table. Bobby enters,
sees Theresa. She smiles brightly, gives him a big hug and
kiss.
Theresa
I'm so glad you're here.
(looks around)
Isn't this great?
Bobby
Aren't the neighbors complaining?
Theresa
The neighbors are all here!
Bobby
(grins)
You gals are fucking amazing.
Megan comes up, smiles at Bobby.
Megan
You're a pretty hip landlord.
Bobby
Hipper than I knew.
INT. THE LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Bobby looks around at the People and the Decor. Sarah,
dancing, smiles and waves. Bobby waves back. She sweeps her
arms to indicate the room. Bobby gives her a 'thumbs up'.
Bobby
Fucking amazing.
A LOUDER SONG BLASTS OUT, People CHEER. Bobby dives into
the Crowd, starts dancing.
INT. "ITALIAN" HALLWAY - NIGHT
Sarah 'makes out' with a CUTE GUY, 20's, in the doorway of
her Bedroom. She pushes the door closed.
cut to:
Megan 'makes out' with a CUTE GUY, 20's, in the doorway of
her Bedroom. She pushes the door closed.
cut to:
Theresa 'makes out' with a CUTE GUY, 20's, in the doorway
of her Bedroom. She pushes the door closed.
cut to:
Gretchen 'makes out' with a CUTE GUY, 20's, in the doorway
of her Bedroom. He pushes the door closed.
INT. THE FOYER - DAY
Sarah, in a Bathrobe, and her Cute Guy say goodbye in the
open doorway. He's still 'hot', trying to kiss her. She is
'so over it'.
Sarah's cute guy
You rocked my world, baby.
Sarah
(thin smile)
Yeah, it was fun.
(slowly pushing him out the door)
Call me sometime...like next month.
He's about to reply when a 'COMMOTION' is heard. They both
look towards the SOUND. Theresa, in a T-shirt, comes toward
the door with her Cute Guy, 'frog-marching' him by his
Collar and the Back of his Pants. She's pissed. His Shirt
and Pants are half undone, he's holding his Leather Jacket,
and a Shoe. Sarah steps back as Theresa roars past, throws
her Cute Guy out onto the Walkway.
Theresa
YOU DISGUSTING LITTLE PIECE OF SHIT!
Sarah's Cute Guy looks at Theresa in dismay as she slams
the door in his face. Theresa notices a Jacket on the
floor, picks it up, opens Door, throws it at her Cute Guy,
who is just getting up. Sarah's Guy still stands there.
Theresa goes to slam the door, notices a Shoe, picks it up,
throws it, hits her Cute Guy. He goes down. Sarah's Guy
flinches. Theresa slams the door, growls.
Sarah
(calmly)
Yeah?
Theresa
(vehement)
He peed all over the toilet seat!
Sarah
(crinkles face in disgust)
EWEEEEEW!!!
Then Sarah starts laughing.
Theresa
What's so fucking funny!?!
Sarah
What's his name? Did you see his face?
Sarah laughs harder. Theresa reflects a moment, then starts
laughing, too, which gets Sarah going more.
INT. THE KITCHEN - DAY
Megan, in a Japanese Robe, 'ciggy' hanging from her lips,
pins Polaroids of the party to a Corkboard with the Sign:
"Party of the Month", on the wall by the Kitchen Door.
Gretchen is sitting at the Big Table with her Cute Guy,
drinking coffee. He smiles sweetly at her, she blushes.
Sarah and Theresa enter laughing. Megan smiles at them.
Megan
Good morning.
Both of them grab Megan, hug and kiss her happily.
Sarah
Was that a fucking great party, or what?!
Theresa
Yeah, let's do it again tonight!
Megan
I've got a better idea. Tonight, we're
going club hopping. My treat.
Sarah
Fuckin-A!
Theresa
Cool!
Sarah then notices Gretchen's Cute Guy.
Gretchen's cute guy
(smiling sweetly)
Hi.
Sarah has an evil smile, whispers to Theresa and Megan.
They both laugh.
Megan
I think I'll just watch.
Sarah and Theresa go to a Drawer, each pull out a large
Carving Knife. They hold up the Knives, look at Cute Guy.
Sarah
Let's cut off his dick.
theresa
Yeah, an inch at a time.
Sarah
Nah, that would go too fast.
They "psycho" laugh.
Gretchen's Cute Guy
(turns pale, gets up quickly)
Ahh...I have to go now.
He runs into the Kitchen Doorframe, recovers, keeps going.
Sarah and Theresa laugh. SOUND of FRONTDOOR SLAMMING.
Gretchen
(laughing shyly)
He was kind of clingy.
EXT. CLUB - NIGHT
It's some funky, Anonymous Looking Club in Hollywood. The
Women exit the Club, laughing, 'carrying on'. They all wear
BLACK.
man's voice(o.s.)
Hey, Sarah! Sarah!
Sarah looks around, rolls her eyes. The Women look, too.
Sarah
Oh, God! It's fucking Joey.
JOEY, good looking, 20's, waves from in front of the Club.
He has just exited with several GUY FRIENDS, 20's. Sarah
turns forward, keeps walking. She's not happy.
Theresa
Who's fucking Joey?
Sarah
Ignore him. He's an idiot. Thinks cause
I sucked his dick a few times, we're in
love.
They walk a few paces. Suddenly, Joey, right behind them,
grabs Sarah's arm, spins her around, his expression ugly.
Joey
(snarling)
What's your fucking problem, bitch!?!
Sarah seems stunned.
Joey
You think you can just...
Sarah
(tries to pull away)
Get the fuck off me!
Theresa goes at Joey, hitting and clawing.
Theresa
YOU FUCKING LITTLE SHITHEAD!
Joey goes to take a swing at Theresa. Megan breaks a beer
bottle on his head. He falls to his knees. Furious, the
Women start to punch and kick him.
Click here for Part 2