"ice"
A teleplay by
Adam Minneci
"ICE"
FADE IN:
EXT. CENTRAL PARK- SNOWING
Snow flakes sprinkle down towards the white ground below. Parents watch their children making snow angels. Fathers and sons are making snowmen. Two brothers are having a snow fight. BOBBY DRAKE, handsome and around 16 years old, leans behind a snow encampment. His 13 year old brother, RONNIE, chugs a snow ball towards him- misses. Bobby packs together a chunk of snow.
BOBBY
Bombs away!
Bobby leans out and tosses it, it hits its target. Ronnie wipes the snow away.
RONNIE
Love to see you try that again
BOBBY
Yeah?
RONNIE
Yeah
Bobby packs another snow ball and it hits Ronnie.
BOBBY
They don't call me the Iceman for nothing.
Ronnie tosses a snowball and it hits Bobby square in the face.
BOBBY (playful)
You're going to pay for that!
Bobby and Ronnie continue to throw snow balls.
RONNIE
It's getting cold
BOBBY
I can't feel a thing
RONNIE
Liar!
Ronnie throws a snow ball and it hits Bobby. Bobby grins.
BOBBY
Not telling me you can't stand the cold are you?
RONNIE
Its freezing man
BOBBY
Want to forfeit?
Ronnie thinks about it and shakes his head no
BOBBY
Just what I thought
Bobby reaches down and picks up another snowball. CLOSE UP as Bobby's hand comes into contact with the snow it turns to ice! Bobby picks up the ICE BALL and chugs it at Ronnie. Ronnie DODGES out of the way. The ice ball SLAMS against a tree and SHATTERS! Ronnie walks over towards it and picks part of the ice up. Bobby looks towards him and then down towards the ice.
RONNIE
It's just a game
Ronnie runs off
BOBBY
Wait! Ronnie!
Bobby runs after his little brother
BOBBY
Ronnie! I didn't-
Ronnie disappears into the white fog. Bobby slowly walks back towards the shattered ice. He bends down and picks part of the ice up. He closes his eyes…
JUMP SHOT:
EXT. CENTRAL PARK- SNOWING- FLASHBACK
CLOSE UP of Bobby picking up the snow ball. It turns to ice. RAPID SHOTS of Bobby throwing the ice ball. SLOW MOTION RAPID SHOTS of the ice ball shattering upon impact.
JUMP SHOT:
EXT. CENTRAL PARK- SNOWING
Bobby opens his eyes. He tosses the ice away.
BOBBY
No, uh-uh… can't be… no freakin' way.
Bobby stands up and begins to pace back and forth
BOBBY
You hear about this stuff in the news man. This isn't happening to me. I'm normal. I'm normal!
(beat)
Sure you are- you turned snow into ice. What's so strange about that?
Bobby leans against the tree to catch his breath
BOBBY
This is just a dream. Just one… big… bad dream.
CLOSE UP part of the tree begins to turn to ice. Bobby senses it and backs away. He looks towards the frozen part of the tree.
BOBBY
Oh man, oh man… oh man… no, no… this can't be happening!
Bobby looks around. No one is watching. Bobby looks down towards his hand. COLDNESS sweeps over it and his hand transforms into an ICE HAND. Bobby begins to breathe faster and faster…
BOBBY
This can't be happening.
Bobby looks around. No one is within sight. The wind begins to pick up and snow rushes towards him.
BOBBY
It's not cold.
Bobby tosses his coat off. Nothing.
BOBBY
This is definitely not normal man.
Bobby rips his shirt off…
BOBBY
Concentrate, concentrate!
ICE RUNS over his entire body as he transforms into ICE MAN. Ice Man looks down towards his body.
ICE MAN
Alright, it's official- I'm a freak.
JUMP TO OPENING CREDITS
INT. BLANK SCREEN
PETER (V.O.)
This is my life. This is my story. This is my…
INT. MIDTOWN HIGH SCHOOL- HISTORY CLASS
At the front of the room PROFESSOR LUTON teaches the class about the Civil War
PETER (V.O.)
Talking to myself trying to waste away time before the bell rings
The bell RINGS. Luton clears his throat
LUTON
Well class, have a splendid holiday and don't forget read pages 50-150 over break.
Peter grabs his backpack and exits with Jason.
INT. MIDTOWN HIGH SCHOOL- HALLWAYS
Peter looks towards Jason
PETER
Why is it that all teachers give the most homework over Christmas break?
Jason shrugs
JASON
Ritual?
Flash walks up besides them
FLASH
More like ritual sacrifice. So, Parker- you're up for the final game right? Man, you know what a big deal this is.
PETER
I'll be there
Flash pats Peter on the back grinning
FLASH
Alright- oh and don't forget fly Parker, fly!
Flash walks off. Jason looks towards Peter
JASON
Am I the only one who thought that little buddy-to-buddy chat was awkward?
PETER
It is strange, but hey- it's Christmas. Who on this earth could not be having fun on Christmas!
Jason shrugs
JASON
You have a point
Peter nods, told you so.
EXT. NEW YORK CITY- WINTER
A lonely, depressed teenager looks out over the water. He wears a t-shirt and jeans. Not even cold yet. This was the same teenage guy that was chugging snow a few hours ago. Bobby breathes out, no perspiration comes out. He puts his hand against the railing and looks towards it. His hand becomes an ICE HAND. A tear falls down his eyes.
BOBBY
Just have to tell them… have to tell them everything. "Hey mom, I'm a freak…" "Hey dad, look what your boy has become." Ha, no use. I tell them, they won't accept me. Not anymore…
(beat)
I have to tell them.
(beat)
Yeah, sure you have to Bobs- but, what's the point? Get your ass booted out the door? On Christmas? Nonetheless.
He looks down towards his hand
BOBBY
I don't know what I am anymore, only thing I do know is- it ain't human.
Bobby walks away
INT. MIDTOWN HIGH SCHOOL-MIDTOWN FLIERS (i won't be home for christmas by blink 182)
Betty hangs the last ornaments on her small desk Christmas tree. Peter walks in
PETER
Hey
Betty looks up towards him and smiles
BETTY
Oh, hey Pete. Merry Christmas
Betty takes a Santa Claus hat and playfully places it on Peter. Peter smiles, laughing.
PETER
Merry Christmas… so, just 20 more minutes until we're home free.
BETTY
For the holidays
Peter walks over towards the computer, it was off
PETER
I'm surprised… it's not like you to be without a story
BETTY
Nothing's been happening. I need a miracle.
PETER
You could always write about…
BETTY
Then it wouldn't be a story Pete, people want to be riveted. They want to hear something new. They want to learn something, experience something. And with Christmas just around the bend, the only hottest story is that Microsoft might have a conspiracy and no one is getting an X-Box 360 by Christmas.
Peter laughs
PETER
And to think Jason waited in line overnight.
BETTY
And?
PETER
Store only carried one system
BETTY
That right there Pete is not that much of a story. Hype, hype, hype- leading to no where, zip, nada. All stories have to have an ending- good or bad.
Peter shrugs
PETER
Sure you will think of something by the end of break.
BETTY
Sure hope you're right. I've already wrote enough about Sam Alito Jr. to last a life time.
Peter laughs, takes the Santa Claus hat off of his head and places it on the desk. Peter looks towards it.
PETER
I might happen to have a story for you
INT. OSCORP- HARRY'S OFFICE (pennies from heaven by louis prima)
Harry looks out the window at the falling snowflakes. His assistant, LUIS, walks into the room and clears his throat.
LUIS
Sir
Harry glances back towards him
LUIS
Maria from the New York City parade commission is here sir
Harry nods
HARRY
Send her in Luis, oh and by the way merry Christmas- you can take the rest of the day off.
Luis smiles and exits the office. MARIA WALKER enters the room.
HARRY
Hey, merry Christmas
MARIA
I'm here concerning the Oscorp float Harry, Oscorp has one every year
Harry nods
HARRY
I'm well aware of that
Maria takes out a folder and hands it to Harry. Harry browses through it and yanks a photo out
HARRY
I like this one
Maria looks down towards it and smiles laughing
MARIA
You're just like your father
Harry frowns
HARRY
Take it and leave.
Harry tosses the folder down onto the table, Maria takes it
MARIA
Happy holidays
Harry shakes his head no
HARRY
There's no such thing as a happy holiday, only disappointment
Maria exits, Harry looks back towards the closed door. Closes his eyes and looks back out the window.
NORMAN (V.O.)
Christmas is cancelled this year Harry, I have too much on my mind for some "holiday."
INT. LOS ANGELES OSBORN MANSION- LIVING ROOM- FLASHBACK
YOUNG HARRY, 12 years old, looks towards his father pleadingly.
NORMAN
Christmas is a time for poor people to try to make themselves feel better.
YOUNG HARRY
It's more than that, there's more to this world than money and power dad
NORMAN
Bahumbug, it's only that. We have everything we could ever want and we owe everything that we have to power, son…
INT. OSCORP- HARRY'S OFFICE
Harry mouths along
NORMAN (V.O.)
We're Osborns.
HARRY
We're Osborns.
NT. PARKER FAMILY HOME- LIVING ROOM
A hand comes into view and places a photo of Uncle Ben next to a stocking. PULL OUT the hand belongs to Aunt May and she is getting ready for Christmas. Peter enters.
PETER
I'm home
AUNT MAY
Oh hi Peter, how was your day dear?
Peter walks into the living room
PETER
It went fast
AUNT MAY
Well, that's good.
Peter looks towards the photo of Uncle Ben
PETER
It definitely gets harder this time of year doesn't it?
May nods
AUNT MAY
But, we'll get by. That's what he would have wanted, you know. For us to get by
PETER
Easier said than done
May nods
PETER
It's different, strange…
A tear falls down Peter's eye
PETER
Every Christmas Eve when I was a child, Uncle Ben would dress up as Santa Claus and take the presents to the tree.
May smiles
AUNT MAY
You remember that one time you woke up?
Peter smiles and nods
PETER
He told me that he was Santa Claus, I believed him.
AUNT MAY
Good times Peter, good times. But he lives on, in our hearts, in our memories- your uncle will always be there as long as we continue to believe in him. He will live on.
Peter nods
PETER
Nothing's like it used to be
May agrees
AUNT MAY
Come, come Peter. You're getting your old aunt upset. It's ok, it's ok Peter. You may not see him, but he's here. Here with us right in this house. Right now.
Peter nods and looks into the corner of the room. He sees YOUNG PETER, age 5, snuggling up close to Uncle Ben. Ben reads Peter IT WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS.
UNCLE BEN
It was the night before Christmas and all through the house…
PETER AND UNCLE BEN
Not a creature was stirring
Uncle Ben and Young Peter disappear. May places her hand on Peter's shoulder reassuringly.
PETER AND AUNT MAY
Not even a mouse
Peter looks towards Aunt May, a tear falls down his eyes
AUNT MAY
He used to read you that story every night before you went to bed on Christmas Eve.
Tears well up in Peter's eyes
PETER
No one said it would be so hard.
AUNT MAY
I know dear, I know.
Aunt May embraces Peter as his head rests on her shoulders crying
AUNT MAY
I know.
EXT. NEW YORK CITY- ALLEYWAY
A cop car RUSHES past the screen
OPERATOR
Report we have a 9-11 on Madison and Park, repeat we have a 9-11 on Madison and Park.
INT. POLICE CAR
George reaches over and grabs the walkie-talkie
GEORGE
This is Captain George Stacy, I'm on it.
A big fat cop LIEUTENANT ANRICH grabs the walkie-talkie and puts it back.
ANDRICH
You sure you're up for this George?
GEORGE
Just if you don't turn out to be like my last partner
Andrich shrugs
ANDIRCH
Man died fighting for what he believed in
George looks towards Andrich, eyebrow arched.
GEORGE
Patrick double crossed us lieutenant. He double crossed all of us.
(beat)
If only we knew who he worked for.
JUMP SHOT:
INT. FURN FAMILY HOME- KITCHEN
A big bulky man with balding hair, CHUCK, grabs his WIFE by her throat.
CHUCK
You think you're tough don't you! I say what goes on in this house little lady. You answer to me!
Wife scratches at Chuck's arms, he screams out in pain.
CHUCK
You're going to pay for that you little bitch!
Chuck hauls her across the room.
EXT. FURN FAMILY HOME- NIGHT
George and Andrich exit the cop car and rush towards the door.
ANDRICH
Ready?
George nods. Andrich and George kick the door open.
INT. FERN FAMILY HOME- ENTRANCE
Andrich shows his badge
ANDRICH
Freeze! NYPD!
George walks in and looks towards a stunned Chuck and wife.
POV. GEORGE
George sees his own wife staring at him, white light surrounding her and blood dripping down her forehead. George walks towards her…
GEORGE
Helen?
Andrich holds George back
ANDRICH
Easy George…
Chuck grabs Helen by the throat, holding a knife to her throat
CHUCK
Not a step closer copper- or she gets it. I swear to God.
ANDRICH
Easy now, no one wants any trouble.
George stares towards Chuck furious as hell.
POV. NORMAL
Chuck presses the knife against wife's throat.
CHUCK
Tell your partner to back the fuck off! Now!
Andrich tries to restrain George
ANDRICH
George, relax.
George looks back towards Chuck
GEORGE
Let her go. Now!
Chuck laughs
CHUCK
You just made the biggest mistake of your life pal
Chuck presses the knife further against wife's throat and blood begins to spurt out.
GEORGE
No!
George lunges towards Chuck and TACKLES him to the ground.
GEORGE
I won't let you kill her!
George picks Chuck up by his head and KNOCKS him back against the ground.
GEORGE
I won't lose her again!
George picks up a knife and holds it over Chuck's head
GEORGE
I won't let you do this.
BAM! George is shot in the arm and the knife STRIKES the ground beside Chuck's head. George grasps his arm in pain. The wife, startled, gets back up.
GEORGE
What… what happened?
Andrich looks towards George in pity
INT. NEW YORK CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT- COMMISIONER'S OFFICE
George looks towards COMMISSIONER FRANCO MCGUIRE
GEORGE
It won't happen again sir
FRANCO
You've been a liability to the force since your wife died George. You need to take a vacation. One, two weeks; point is you need some time to calm down- to relax. And you're not finding that here.
GEORGE
Sir, I…
FRANCO
No George, I can't. I'm sorry. Have a happy holiday, hopefully in one or two weeks you're ready again. But as of now you're temporarily off of the force.
George nods and hands Franco his badge
FRANCO
Feel better George, I'm sorry for your loss. Truly- I am.
George leaves the office. Franco nods and shakes his head no.
FRANCO
It's a shame.
Franco looks out the window. Snow falls down against the ground.
EXT. DRAKE FAMILY HOME- NIGHT
Bobby stands on the porch outside, looking and waiting.
BOBBY
I can do this… I can do this…
Bobby opens the door and walks in.
INT. DRAKE FAMILY HOME- ENTRANCE
Ronnie looks down towards him from the banister above. Before Bobby could speak he was cornered by his parents, MADELINE and WILLIAM DRAKE.
MADELINE
Your brother told us what happened.
Bobby breaths out and looks at Ronnie "how could you"
WILLIAM
What would cause you to throw a chunk of ice at your brother?
BOBBY
I didn't
RONNIE
Liar! You did so!
Bobby clenches his teeth
MADELINE
Well, I deserve an answer young man
BOBBY
It was a mistake
WILLIAM
Are you trying to tell us that you don't know the difference between ice and snow son?
BOBBY
Look it was an accident alright. Besides, it barely touched him
RONNIE
That's because I dodged out of the way in time.
BOBBY
Look, I'm really not in the mood for this right now alright. None of you would ever understand
WILLIAM
What happened Bobby…
Bobby looks towards his father, but doesn't answer
WILLIAM
Well?
Bobby nods and exits out the door.
EXT. DRAKE FAMILY HOME- NIGHT
Bobby takes running off through the cold wintry night. William runs out of the house, following him.
WILLIAM
Bobby, wait! Wait!
William slips on the ice. Bobby looks back towards his father.
WILLIAM
We can talk this out Bobby!
A tear falls down his eyes he shakes his head no
BOBBY
Some things you can't talk about. This is one of them.
EXT. DAILY BUGLE (Jingle bells by brian setzer)
Snow flakes float to the ground as we look up at the Daily Bugle.
JUMP SHOT:
INT. DAILY BUGLE- OFFICES
Reporters rush across the room, busily working to finish the last article before break. Peter stands next to Betty.
PETER
I never expected this place to get so busy
Betty shrugs
BETTY
It's the newspaper business. So, you've got more pictures?
Peter nods
PETER
The dark rooms filled to the gills. There's about an hour long wait.
JAMESON (O.S.)
Parker! In here! Now!
Peter looks towards Betty, eyebrows raised
PETER
Yikes, you've been here longer than I have Betty. Is Mr. Jameson more of the jolly type or the Scrooge type?
BETTY
Jolly Jameson?
Peter nods
PETER
Trust me, I know how it sounds
BETTY
Actually, Jameson isn't that bad on Christmas.
PETER
I'll have to take your word for it
Peter enters Jameson's office
INT. DAILY BUGLE- JAMESON'S OFFICE
JAMESON
There you are Parker! A minute late! As usual, it's always like you: late, late, late, late!
Peter looks towards Jameson "want something from me sir?"
JAMESON
Sit down!
PETER
I'll stand
JAMESON
Suit yourself. There's a story that I want you to cover. I want photographs.
Jameson tosses Peter the story "The Santa Claus Massacre"
PETER
Um… is this a fictional story Mr. Jameson?
JAMESON
Bunch of loonies are going around town robbing banks dressed up as Santa Claus.
PETER
Dressed up as Santa Claus?
JAMESON
I know, sounds ridiculous- doubt it even exists. That's why we need you on it.
PETER
Me? Why?
JAMESON
Evidence, Parker, Evidence! You're able to get that spider guy who runs around dressed in his pajamas- you'll be able to snap a couple of shots of these freaks
Peter shrugs
PETER
Well, I'll try sir
JAMESON
Well? What are you doing staying here? Go! Go! Go!
Peter nods
PETER
Right away Mr. Jameson
Peter leaves
INT. DAILY BUGLE- OFFICES
Peter looks towards Betty
BETTY
So, what's the verdict?
PETER
Jameson gave me an assignment
BETTY
Yeah?
Peter rolls his eyes and breathes out
PETER
Yep
BETTY
Well, what about?
PETER
Santa Burglars
Betty looks towards Peter "are you serious?"
BETTY
You can't be serious
PETER
Unfortunately-
BETTY
Wo… sorry
Peter nods
EXT. NEW YORK CITY- ALLEYWAYS
Bobby Drake walks through the dark alley. Howling and kissing noises begin to surround him. His eyes glance around.
BOBBY
Who's there?
A street gang swarms towards him, flipping open and close their pocket knives.
GANG MEMBER 1
What you doin' here boy? Don't you know it not safe here?
BOBBY
Leave me alone
GANG MEMBER 2
Leave you alone? Who you think you are- some rich pretty boy… agh, don't want to mess up your complexion
BOBBY
I'm warning you… back off
The gang members laugh
GANG MEMBER 1
Look boys, this here child think he's all tough and mighty
GANG MEMBER 3
Better teach him a lesson then
Gang Member 1 nods
GANG MEMBER 1
Better
Bobby looks down towards his hand, it turns to ICE. The gang members begin to shiver out of coldness. Bobby begins to transform into Ice Man! The gang members back away scared.
GANG MEMBER 1
Oh man, you're one of em'… one of em' freaks…
The gang members take off, Ice Man nods
ICE MAN
One of em' freaks
Ice Man shoots out a layer of ice beneath the gang members' feet. They all TRIP.
ICE MAN
I've been having a bad day
Ice Man walks away
INT. MIDTOWN MALL- LOBBY (sleigh ride by ella fitzgerald)
MALL SANTA looks towards the screen.
WOMAN CHEWING BUBBLE GUM (O.S.)
Alright… sit and say cheese
We zoom out to see a child sit on mall Santa's lap.
CHILD AND SANTA
Cheese!
The woman chewing bubble gum shoots a picture, dusts it off and hands it to the GUARDIAN of the child.
WOMAN CHEWING BUBBLE GUM
Alright… next
Betty and Peter walk through the mall, watching the children get their picture taken with Santa Claus
BETTY
So, if we need a lead- it's gotta be here.
PETER
A couple of mall Santas don't get paid enough- instead of going on strike they decide to do a little Christmas hold up.
BETTY
You're catching on
Peter nods towards Mall Santa
PETER
I don't think so
Peter looks away
BETTY
What is it?
Peter looks towards her
PETER
You know how you said I could come to you whenever I needed your help.
Betty nods
BETTY
Yeah?
PETER
It's just a façade.
Betty looks towards Peter curious
PETER
My uncle died this year Betty, I can never forget that. This year is my first Christmas without Uncle Ben
(beat)
It's not going to be the same
Peter stops and looks towards a father waiting in line with his son to have their presents wrapped.
BETTY
Hey, you don't need to go through this alone.
Peter looks into her eyes and shakes his head ok
PETER
So, back to the Santa heist
Betty laughs
PETER (CONT'D)
Where could we possibly find any leads?
BETTY
Come on, you- Peter Parker- don't have a single clue of how to get pictures of the "Santa Burglars"?
Peter shrugs
BETTY
You got a picture of the web-swinging Spider-Man before anyone could even get a close look at the guy
PETER
Well… that's different
Betty looks towards Peter curious
BETTY
How so?
PETER
Um, it's a long story.
EXT. MANHATTAN BANK ('t was the night before christmas by gary hoey)
A van waits outside as people pass by.
INT. VAN- BACK
Inside of the van, five grueling men with long dirty brown beards put on Santa Claus costumes. The SANTA LEADER puts on the hat and grins yellow rotting teeth.
SANTA LEADER
Its Christmas time boys… deck the halls- time to be jolly.
INT. MANHATTAN BANK
Bobby Drake waits patiently as a BANK TELLER counts out his money.
BANK TELLER
This sure is a lot of money Mr. Drake, off to anywhere important?
Bobby looks towards the bank teller and nods his head
BOBBY
You could say that.
The Bank Teller hands Bobby over the money
BANK TELLER
Six hundred dollars, have a merry Christmas sir.
BOBBY
Happy holidays
Bobby takes the money and walks towards the exit. Through the glass window of the entrance he notices the five SANTA CLAUS THUGS walking towards the bank.
BOBBY
What the hell?
Bobby notices a MACHINE GUN strapped to one of the Santa Claus thug's belt. CLICK… CLICK… CLICK… Bobby looks towards the ground to see a gas bomb ticking… POOF! Gas shoots out of the bomb and surrounds the bank. Bobby coughs, clinging to his throat as he backs away. The Santa Claus thugs enter the bank and look around. Santa Leader shoots his gun in the air.
SANTA LEADER
Alright, nobody move- we're robbing this bank. Ho-ho-ho.
Bobby looks towards them, knowing that he should do something. Bank Teller reaches over to pick up a phone he dials 911.
PHONE (O.C.)
Operator.
Santa Leader notices. BAM! Bank Teller is shot through the head. The phone CRASHES.
SANTA LEADER
If you all remain calm you can go on about your business. Christmas comes but once a year.
INT. MIDTOWN MALL- RADIO SHACK
Peter looks around at various electronic equipment. NEWS PROGRAM MUSIC blares over the screen.
NEWSCASTER (O.C.)
I'm outside of the Manhattan Bank where we're getting reports that from inside there is a burglary situation that is increasingly getting out of hand.
Peter looks towards the screen. POW! One of the Santa Thugs is knocked against the bank's door by ice! Peter runs off. Betty glances behind her back…
BETTY
Peter? Peter! Where are you?
INT. MANHATTAN BANK
Ice Man looks around the bank
ICE MAN
Anyone wants some more!
Santa Leader takes out his gun. The other three Santa Thug's take out their guns
ICE MAN
Oh shit
SPIDER-MAN (O.S.)
So, let me guess-
Spider-Man lands in the dead center between them.
SPIDER-MAN
Mall didn't pay you guys enough?
ICE MAN
Spider-Man?
Spider-Man glances behind his back to see Ice Man
SPIDER-MAN
Who are you? The human icicle?
ICE MAN
Ice Man.
Spider-Man looks back towards the angry thugs brandishing their weapons.
SPIDER-MAN
Did the elves build those?
Spider-Man dodges out of the way. Summersaults in the air and kicks thug 1 back.
SPIDER-MAN
Hey ice for brains, get him!
Ice Man looks towards Spider-Man curious, he realizes what he wants him to do. WHOOSH! He shoots out a giant stream of ice and it freezes Thug 1. Thug 2 rushes towards Spider-Man
SPIDER-MAN
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Spider-Man punches Thug 2 and hauls him backwards. WHOOSH! Thug 2 is frozen in mid-air. Thug 3 shoots towards Spider-Man.
SPIDER-MAN
Hey linteen ice, would you mind?
WHOOSH! Ice Man shoots out a stream of ice and Thug 3 is frozen. Santa Leader runs for the exits.
SPIDER-MAN
So- I guess you never got on the nice list when you were a child.
Santa Leader bangs on the door- it wouldn't budge. He takes out his machine gun.
SANTA LEADER
You won't stop me… none of you will stop me!
Spider-Man walks towards him
SPIDER-MAN
All I want for Christmas is for you to shut the hell up
Spider-Man sends out a web, YANKS the machine gun out of Santa Leader's hands and hauls it away.
SPIDER-MAN
Freeze!
WHOOSH! Santa Leader freezes. Spider-Man looks around grinning.
SPIDER-MAN
Well, that's the lot of em'- Santas on Ice
Spider-Man walks over to where he dropped in and picks up his camera. He aims it towards Santa Leader and fires.
SPIDER-MAN
Caching… and I thought I saw it all-
Spider-Man walks towards the exit
SPIDER-MAN
These guys are nuts
ICE MAN
That was cool man
Spider-Man looks towards him
SPIDER-MAN
So ice, how did you get messed up in all of this?
ICE MAN
I was… taking out money.
SPIDER-MAN
For Christmas presents?
Ice Man shakes his head no. Ice Man transforms back into Bobby.
BOBBY
I need to get away
SPIDER-MAN
From the cops?
BOBBY
My parents
Spider-Man nods and takes off his mask
BOBBY
You're, you're…
Peter nods
PETER
Yeah. Hey trust me man, this super hero gig isn't all it's cracked up to be. I'm just like you. When this whole thing started I didn't want to tell anybody. I was afraid of what I would become. I gave into my worst instincts. I became someone else- trust me. That's a road you don't want to go down.
BOBBY
Then how do you do it?
PETER
You adapt, you don't change
Bobby nods
BOBBY
So… I bet I'm going to kick your ass in basketball.
PETER
Against the amazing flying man? Yeah… right- that'll be the day
Bobby laughs as he and Peter exits out the back entrance
BOBBY
Hey, you've got a new challenge in town now
PETER
Yeah, guess I was wrong when I stated I would be the only superhero protecting this city.
Bobby nods
BOBBY
I have a feeling that a lot's going to change over the years.
PETER
So, what you are going to do?
Bobby shrugs
BOBBY
Guess I'll go back home. Don't know if I can tell them who I am though, who I really am. But- I'll try.
Peter nods
PETER
So, Raptors vs. the Lions huh?
BOBBY
Telling you man, we're going to win…
Peter laughs
PETER
We'll see about that.
JUMP SHOT:
INT. MIDTOWN HIGH SCHOOL-BASKETBALL GAME (run, run rudolph by chuck berry)
The RAPTORS and LIONS play an intense game of basketball. Peter dribbles the ball towards the basket. Bobby Drake corners him.
BOBBY
Don't think so…
Bobby quickly touches the ball… Peter looks towards Bobby and quickly tosses the ball to Flash. Flash shoots. He scores! Bobby and Peter both look towards the score board. They're tied. The bell RINGS signaling the end of the game. Bobby and Peter both nod and shake hands
BOBBY & PETER
Good game.
Bobby and Peter walk back over to the bleachers
PETER
So, what did you decide on?
BOBBY
I didn't tell them. I couldn't.
Peter nods
PETER
Neither could I.
Jason and Betty walk towards him
JASON
Great game man… Flash is a little bummed out though.
Peter and Bobby look
FLASH
Damn it… we win this we get to finals. We lose, we don't. Thanks Parker, really thanks… oh damn it!
Peter laughs and shakes his head no
PETER
Seems like the usual Flash Thompson
Jason grins and nods
BETTY
So, the party- it's tonight… right Pete?
Peter nods, he looks towards Bobby
PETER
If you want to come, your welcomed to join us…
BOBBY
Um, I dunno… I mean, I really don't want to intrude or anything
PETER
No, you'll be fine… so?
BOBBY
Yeah, alright count me in dude.
Jason looks towards them, trying to figure it out
JASON
So, you guys knew each other before the game?
Peter shrugs
PETER
It's a long story
INT. PARKER FAMILY HOME- LIVING ROOM (chestnuts roasting on an open fire by natalie cole)
A Christmas tree stands against the corner lit up. Christmas lights swarm all over the house. Betty looks around…
BETTY
Did anyone see Peter?
INT. PARKER FAMILY HOME- BASEMENT
Peter and Gwen sit in the basement.
PETER
I didn't think it would be so hard either.
Gwen nods
GWEN
My mom used to always be there to watch me opening my presents Christmas morning.
PETER
Maybe she still is. Maybe they are still here… in spirit. And that's what truly counts. That we never forget them. That they… live on.
Gwen looks towards Peter
GWEN
When did you get so wise?
PETER
I didn't… it's something my Aunt told me. Where's your dad by the way?
GWEN
At home. He lost his job.
PETER
Really?
GWEN
Well, he was put on a two week vacation
Peter nods
PETER
Guess this time of year gets to everyone doesn't it?
Gwen nods
GWEN
Well, we better get upstairs.
Peter nods and follows Gwen up
INT. PARKER FAMILY HOME- LIVING ROOM
Peter looks towards Betty
PETER
Hey, about that story that I was telling you about. I might have an idea.
BETTY
Yeah?
Peter nods
PETER
Yeah. Spider-Man's going to be playing Santa tomorrow night, bringing presents to all the poor little boys and girls.
BETTY
How do you know this?
Peter shrugs
PETER
Just call it a hunch
BETTY
A hunch huh?
Peter nods, Betty walks towards him. Peter walks towards her. He bumps his head on a mistletoe. He looks up and laughs.
BETTY
Well…
Peter and Betty kiss. The kiss turns from a "friend" kiss to a passionate kiss. Peter pulls away acknowledging this and looks into Betty's eyes.
BETTY
Merry Christmas
PETER
Merry Christmas
Peter and Betty smile. Betty walks away. Jason walks into the room and towards Peter. Gwen walks in carrying a tray of cookies. Jason and Peter are now underneath it. Gwen laughs. Peter and Jason look towards each other disgusted
PETER
No… ugh… ugh
JASON
No way dude.
They both quickly walk away. Gwen laughs. Bobby enters the room.
BOBBY
Hey Pete, can I see you for a second.
PETER
Be right back
Peter follows Bobby into a separate room.
INT. PARKER FAMILY HOME- COMPUTER ROOM
Bobby looks back and forth
PETER
So, what is it?
Bobby turns the computer on. A website appears: Xaviers school for the gifted.
PETER
A prep school?
BOBBY
I thought so too… but, I also received this.
Bobby clicks on a e-mail. Peter reads it
PETER
Dear Mr. Bobby Drake, we are aware of your abilities and know how hard of a time this must be for both you and your family. We at the Xavier school for the gifted want to help you focus and harness your powers to the best of your ability. If you have any further questions please feel free to e-mail us at any time. Thank you…
(beat)
What do you think it means?
BOBBY
They know about me, about what I can do.
PETER
I don't know if you should trust them
BOBBY
What other choice do I have? I know that I can't go back home. Not like this, not any more. Come with me Pete. They seem like they want to help guys like us. You know… freaks.
PETER
You're not a freak. We're different, but we're not freaks. The world just hasn't come to understand people like us yet.
BOBBY
And you think they ever will?
PETER
I have great hope for this city.
Bobby nods
BOBBY
I'm going to enroll. It's the only shot I have at a relatively normal life Pete. A school where I can just be myself, where everyone there has powers as well. Come on, come with me. You'll fit in there too.
Peter shakes his head no
PETER
My place is here. With my friends… my family. I could never leave them behind.
Bobby shakes his head ok
BOBBY
I understand… well, I better get going. My mom wanted me home by six.
Peter nods ok. Bobby walks out of the computer room. Peter holds up his coat
PETER
Hey you forgot your…
BOBBY
I don't need it. You can have it.
INT. OSBORN MANSION- HARRY'S OFFICE
Harry stares out the window. The door behind him opens. He looks. Norman enters.
HARRY
Dad, I'm surprised that you came
NORMAN
It's Christmas Eve son. Of course I came. We're family. Christmas is a time to be with family.
HARRY
I thought it was the time of year for poor people to feel good about themselves dad. Isn't that what you used to say?
Norman frowns
HARRY
I wanted to tell you that I know what happened to mom. And I intend to do something about it.
Norman laughs
NORMAN
You're too ignorant for your own good son.
HARRY
You don't scare me. You used to. But, I'm a grown man now. I make my own decisions. I will beat you dad.
Norman grins
NORMAN
I'd love to see you try son. You know as well as I do, your mother died from lung cancer.
HARRY
You covered it up.
NORMAN
Even if I did, do you truly think that you can ever prove it?
Norman walks towards the double doors and stops
NORMAN
Merry Christmas… son.
Norman leaves. Harry watches Norman go. He nods, he finally did what he could never do as a child. Stand up to his father.
INT. DAILY BUGLE- JAMESON'S OFFICE (santa claus is coming to town by smokey robinson & the miracles)
Jameson flips through the pictures grinning. Peter anxiously waiting
JAMESON
Haha! You did it Parker, you really did it. Knew I could count on you. Your like my own one man paparazzi team. Robbie!
Robbie Robertson enters the Daily Bugle
ROBBIE
Yes Mr. Jameson?
JAMESON
Get these pictures into tomorrow morning's early edition paper. Headline SPIDER-MAN IN LEAGUES WITH SANTA BURGLARS.
Peter shakes his head no
PETER
Spider-Man was there stopping the burglars
JAMESON
Sure he was, so that he could get some of the money for himself.
PETER
Mr. Jameson- he was…
JAMESON
Agh bahumbug! He was working with the burglars kid. Get your facts straight. Now get outta here!
PETER
Yes sir, right away sir.
Jameson frowns
JAMESON
Then what are you doing still being here! Out! Out! Out!
Peter leaves the office
INT. DAILY BUGLE- OFFICES
Peter looks towards Betty
BETTY
That looks like it went well
Peter laughs
PETER
Tonight's Christmas Eve.
BETTY
I thought you said Spider-Man would be bringing toys to all of the children of the city.
PETER
He will. Trust me, I know these things.
Betty smiles and nods ok.
EXT. DOCKS- NIGHT
Spider-Man walks towards Bobby looking out over the frozen water.
SPIDER-MAN
So, I guess this is good bye.
Bobby turns around
BOBBY
You made it
SPIDER-MAN
Thought I would let you go without saying bye?
BOBBY
We'll see each other again. Probably fight side to side more times than we can count as well.
Spider-Man laughs and nods
SPIDER-MAN
So off to Westchester huh?
Bobby nods
SPIDER-MAN
How did your parents take to it?
BOBBY
They thought I was going to some prestigious prep school free of charge. They were more than eager to accept.
Spider-Man nods.
SPIDER-MAN
Well, I have a little more running around to do before Christmas day.
BOBBY
Yeah, like what?
Spidey shrugs
SPIDER-MAN
Promised I'd help a friend find a story.
BOBBY
Ok. See you later Spider-Claus.
Spider-Man laughs and shakes his head no.
SPIDER-MAN
Melt you later Ice Man.
Spider-Man swings off and into the night sky. Bobby watches him leave.
BOBBY
Merry Christmas.
INT. MIDTOWN FLIERS
Betty types at her computer…
BETTY (O.S.)
It was the night before Christmas, when all through the house not a creature was stirring… not even a mouse.
INT. CHILD'S HOME- MOUSE HOLE
We see mice sleeping, snuggling close to their mother
INT. CHILD'S HOME- LIVING ROOM
We see stockings hung by the fireplace.
BETTY (O.S.)
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that Saint Nicholas soon would be there.
INT. CHILD'S HOME- CHILDREN BEDROOM
See children dreaming, each tucked tight in their beds.
BETTY (O.S.)
The children were nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.
One of the children, a small BOY, opens his eyes
BETTY (O.S.)
Out on the lawn there arose such a clatter.
The boy springs out of bed and runs to the window. Spider-Man swings over the nigh sky reflecting in the moon.
SPIDER-MAN
Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! on Cupid! on, Donder and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!
Spider-Man lands on the roof above. The boy runs down the stairs and to the living room.
INT. CHILD'S HOME-LIVING ROOM
The boy hides behind a sofa to get a peek as Spider-Man slides down the chimney, carrying a bag full of toys and wearing a Santa hat.
BETTY (O.S.)
His clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot; a bundle of toys flung on his back.
Spider-Man opens the back and begins to take out presents
BETTY (O.S.)
And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.
The boy laughs. Spider-Man looks towards the boy and smiles.
BETTY (O.S.)
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, there was nothing to dread
The boy climbs out of his hiding spot.
SPIDER-MAN
What are you still doing up?
BOY
I heard you coming Spider-Man. What are you doing with all those presents?
Spider-Man smiles
SPIDER-MAN
Bringing Christmas joy to every child.
(beat)
Helping Santa Claus deliver presents to all the good little boys and girls. Now run off to bed, for tomorrow is Christmas day. A time to be had.
The boy smiles and runs off to bed. Spider-Man continues to put presents under the tree and in the stockings
BETTY (O.S.)
And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk
Spider-Man walks back into the chimney. Puts up his arm and web zips out of view.
BETTY (O.S.)
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose
INT. CHILD'S HOME- CHILDREN BEDROOM
The boy watches out the window as Spider-Man swings off
BETTY (O.S.)
And away he flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight…
EXT. NEW YORK CITY- NIGHT
Spider-Man swings towards the camera
SPIDER-MAN
Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night.
INT. MIDTOWN FLIERS
Betty types a period. She nods and she looks out her window to see a sleigh and eight reindeer flying past the moon. She types the headline:
SPIDER-MAN: THE SERIES
ICE.
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT.