HUBBARD STREET
BY
HENRIETTE MOUSTAKIS
TEASER
FADE IN:
INT. FRANK'S HOUSE. NIGHT
The HOCKS are eating dinner. It is very quiet. All that can be heard is the clash of silverware on the plates. It is quiet enough to hear a pin drop.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Pass the salt, please.
Andrew does.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Thank you.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
You're welcome.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Pass the butter, please.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
(giving it to him)
Here.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Thank you.
There is more silence. The four girls look at MAYLING HOCKENBERRY. They know something is wrong. Mayling slams her napkin on the table and goes into the first floor bathroom.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
What happened?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Don't look at me. I'll go check.
Frank goes to the bathroom door. Mayling can be heard crying inside. Frank knocks.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Something wrong, May?
MAYLING HOCKENBERRY
Go away!
Andrew walks up to him.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
What's going on?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Don't look at me. I didn't say anything.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
What do we do?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Leave her alone. She'll be fine. Go back to dinner.
Andrew leaves as Frank knocks.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Honey, your food is getting cold. I'll nuke it for you.
Frank leaves.
FADE OUT:
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
SCENE ONE
INT. LOTUS BLOSSOM FLOWER SHOP. DAY
It is closing time. RUSSELL GREENE comes in. CLAIRE GREENE is closing.
CLAIRE GREENE
You're early?
RUSSELL GREENE
My last appointment was at four so I helped Joe get settled at the hotel.
CLAIRE GREENE
Let's hope it's a better area.
RUSSELL GREENE
It isn't Hubbard Street, thank God. It's hard to believe Frank lived there for years.
CLAIRE GREENE
I don't call that living.
RUSSELL GREENE
Where's May?
CLAIRE GREENE
She's taking out the garbage.
RUSSELL GREENE
Why do I hear something more in your voice?
CLAIRE GREENE
I'm worried about her. She is not sleeping well. She has no appetite. And lately, I've found her crying, for no reason. She won't tell me what's wrong. I wouldn't be surprised if she were crying now. I'm starting to learn the signs.
RUSSELL GREENE
She's not still mad about Frank helping me?
CLAIRE GREENE
She's past that.
RUSSELL GREENE
I'll go check on her.
CUT TO:
SCENE TWO
EXT. BACK DOOR. DAY. -- MOMENTS LATER
Russ goes out by the garbage bin. He hears a woman crying. He checks and sees it is Mayling.
RUSSELL GREENE
(walking to her)
May, what's wrong?
MAYLING HOCKENBERRY
(wiping her eyes)
Nothing.
RUSSELL GREENE
People don't usually cry for nothing. Is it the family? Are you ill?
MAYLING HOCKENBERRY
I am not sick.
RUSSELL GREENE
But the family is? Am I right?
MAYLING HOCKENBERRY
I don't know what to do anymore. Ever since Zek died, Frank and Andrew don't talk. My house is dead silent.
RUSSELL GREENE
Are they fighting?
MAYLING HOCKENBERRY
No. They've just stopped talking. They don't even talk about Paul. Our meals are pure silence. Even the girls are afraid to speak. They know something is wrong. When Zek died, my family died with him.
RUSSELL GREENE
I'm sure this is temporary. It can't last.
MAYLING HOCKENBERRY
He's been gone for two weeks. What will it take for them to talk again? I don't know what to do.
Claire comes out as Russ holds a crying Mayling.
RUSSELL GREENE
Don't worry, May. We'll help you.
(looking at Claire)
It's time for Super Greene to come out.
CUT TO:
SCENE THREE
INT. RV. NIGHT. -- LATER
Russ comes in. Claire is in the small kitchen. There is the sound of guitar near by.
RUSSELL GREENE
Hey, babe.
CLAIRE GREENE
Hello, Russell.
RUSSELL GREENE
Where is everyone?
CLAIRE GREENE
Nathanial and Dinah are at the library. Josh is rehearsing with Andrew in the bedroom.
RUSSELL GREENE
Andrew's here? That's a change. Is it for Dinah?
CLAIRE GREENE
He's forgotten Dinah. It's only Josh.
RUSSELL GREENE
I see.
CLAIRE GREENE
What are you thinking?
RUSSELL GREENE
I think it's time for Super Greene. Someone's got to put some sense into that boy's head. His mother should not be crying every day.
CLAIRE GREENE
I thought you didn't want us to get involved? What changed your mind?
RUSSELL GREENE
May did. She is the ONLY adult in that family with a level head. When she cracks, they all crack. And that woman can't take much more. Claire, you go outside. I'm gonna listen in for awhile.
Claire leaves. Russ stands by the bedroom door.
CUT TO:
SCENE FOUR
INT. GREENE'S BEDROOM. NIGHT. -- MOMENTS LATER
Inside the room, JOSH GREENE and Andrew are going over music.
JOSH GREENE
I don't know, Andrew. That's a pretty hard riff. I don't have the talent you have.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Nonsense. All you need is practice. Let me tell you what someone once told me. Make the guitar an extension of your arm. Give it life. I have to go. I've got homework.
JOSH GREENE
Could I ask you something first?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Sure.
JOSH GREENE
Why are you ignoring Dinah? Has she done something wrong?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
No, not at all.
JOSH GREENE
It's my dad, isn't it? Three weeks ago, you two were crazy about each other, and now nothing.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
It's not your dad. I've come to my senses. Dinah is a special girl. She deserves better. I let your dad win because I didn't want to cause trouble. Then, after Paul happened, I realized he was right. She needs a fresh start, with someone else. You and I are different. We're guys. We can be in the business together and no one would care. I can't do that to Dinah.
JOSH GREENE
Are you in love with her?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
What?
JOSH GREENE
Are you in love with her?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Even if I were, it wouldn't matter. It's over.
JOSH GREENE
No, it's not over for her. She still cares for you. I can see it in her eyes. All I have to do is say your name and she becomes quiet. How can you turn cold overnight? I'm beginning to wonder if you ever cared? Maybe you thought she would be easy?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Josh, if I wanted a piece of tail, I could get it now. You've seen the band. I have groupies. I just don't use them. I want someone special.
JOSH GREENE
You sound like a virgin.
Andrew says nothing.
JOSH GREENE
You are a----"
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
It's not something I want to broadcast. This time next year, with my groupies, that will change.
JOSH GREENE
You still didn't answer my question. Do you love her? I want the truth.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Okay, I'll give you the truth. Every time I see her face, I see my children's eyes. She's all I think about. Yes, I love her. And that's why I'm staying away.
JOSH GREENE
It's my dad, isn't it?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
No, it's mine. Josh, I killed him. My actions made those men attack him. He not only died physically; he had to eat baby food for weeks. He had to change jobs just to put a roof over our heads. My dad hasn't been the same since. I am a murderer, his murderer. Dinah belongs with someone clean, not me.
JOSH GREENE
What a load of crap!
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
What?
JOSH GREENE
You are so full of it. I have never seen two more pathetic men in my life. You and your father have excuses for everything. You two have the lowest self-esteem I have ever seen. I used to idolize you. Now, I only feel sorry for you.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I never asked you to be my idol. It's my music you really want.
JOSH GREENE
Damn right! Your music is the only part of you worth anything. When you play, something happens to you. You become alive. After you stop, you become a zombie. You once said Andrew said music was the key to your life. I finally know what he means. He didn't mean fame, he means attitude. If you only put the magic of music into the rest of your life, you'd be alive. You wouldn't need excuses.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Are you finished now?
JOSH GREENE
Yes, I'm finished.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Your opinion has been noted. It's late. Night.
Andrew leaves.
CUT TO:
SCENE FIVE
EXT. RV. NIGHT. -- MOMENTS LATER
Andrew rushes out. Russ is waiting. Andrew doesn't see him.
RUSSELL GREENE
What's your hurry?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
(turning)
Mr. Greene?
RUSSELL GREENE
(walking up to him)
That's my name. Don't wear it out. I heard you two boys fighting.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
We weren't fighting.
RUSSELL GREENE
Well, you weren't discussing the weather.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
It's late. I have to go.
RUSSELL GREENE
I'm not letting you go, not yet. You see I overheard what Josh said, and he's right. You know what I was doing a few days ago?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
No.
RUSSELL GREENE
I was holding your mother in my arms. She was crying. She's been crying a lot lately.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I've heard her.
RUSSELL GREENE
You know why she's crying? You and your dad are breaking her heart. She has seen the two men she loves literally fall apart.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I don't know what you mean?
RUSSELL GREENE
I think you do. Now I know what Zek went through. When he was alive, you both shared him. No, shared is not the word. You DROWNED him. Thank God for his wife. If someone did that to me, I'd kill him. Ever since Zek died, you two have forgotten the art of conversation. Your house has become a tomb.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
We talk. We talk a lot.
RUSSELL GREENE
That's the same line Gunther said. Your family must be cursed. The men have severe personality problems.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
That is not called for.
RUSSELL GREENE
You know why and your father don't speak? I'll tell you. You can't stand to be in the same room alone because you're too much alike. When you see each other, you see yourself, and you HATE what you see. Josh was right. You two are pathetic.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Why are you saying this? I gave up Dinah, just like you asked.
RUSSELL GREENE
And I'm glad you did. You said you loved her. Well, I don't believe you. You, your dad, and his dad don't know how to love. Or else, they would love each other. You two SUFFOCATED Zek. You turned a simple act of Christian love into a stranglehold. I'm glad you dropped Dinah. I want her to find real love, not suffocation.
Andrew is near tears.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Are you finished?
RUSSELL GREENE
Not yet. I must be hitting a nerve. You look like you're about to cry. Boy, you have serious issues. Drugs are only a small part of it. You can go to all the shrinks in the world and it won't mean a damn thing if you don't listen to your heart.
Zek is gone. You can't count on him. And you can't count on me. I will not take his place. I don't like drowning. Your mother deserves better, and you and your father are the ones destroying her. It's time you two, no three, get your act together and grow up. Goodnight, Mr. Hockenberry.
Andrew walks off. Josh comes out of the RV and goes to Russ.
RUSSELL GREENE
You think it worked?
JOSH GREENE
I wouldn't hold my breath.
RUSSELL GREENE
You love me, right?
JOSH GREENE
You?
He looks at Russ and smiles.
JOSH GREENE
Not a chance.
The two go into the RV.
CUT TO:
SCENE SIX
INT. ZEK'S HOUSE. NIGHT. -- LATER
DR. JENNIFER SEYMORE-ANDERSON is in the living room. She is carrying some collapsed boxes up the stairs as the bell rings. She drops the boxes and opens the door. It is Andrew.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Andrew? What are you doing here? It's late. Is something wrong?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
No, I just came to see Gunther.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
He's upstairs in my room. We're working. It's time to De-Zek this place. Care to help?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Okay.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
You can take the boxes. I'll take the tape and scissors.
They grab the supplies and go upstairs.
CUT TO:
SCENE SEVEN
INT. ZEK'S BEDROOM. NIGHT. -- MOMENTS LATER
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY is busy folding clothes. The pair comes in with their supplies.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Look who I found?
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Andrew!
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Where do you want these boxes?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
On the bed. We can make them as we need them.
(grabs supplies)
Why don't we grab a drawer and start folding?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
You're getting rid of Zek's clothes?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
I can't wear them. The Salvation Army can always find new owners.
(starts folding)
What are you doing out so late?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I was rehearsing with Josh.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
On a school night? I thought this week was finals?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
That's next week.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Music usually makes you happy. You look like you've lost your best friend.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Josh and I had words.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Dinah again?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
How did you guess? Then Mr. Greene set in.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
They really attacked you.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
What did they say?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
A lot of things.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
We have a lot of folding. You can tell us all about it.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Where do I start?
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
The beginning.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Josh started first. He wanted to know my true feelings about Dinah.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Which are?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I love her, Grandpa. That's why I'm leaving her alone. I'm no good.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
That is not true. These past years you've changed for the better. Everyone is proud of you.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I'm not proud of myself. I told Josh that. That's when he said he never saw two people with such low self-esteem.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Two?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
He meant dad. That's when I started to leave and met Mr. Greene.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
What did Russ say?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
He agreed with Josh and added his two cents. He said dad and I don't get along because we're alike. When we see each other, we see what we hate in ourselves. And he didn't stop there.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
He really hit below the belt.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Are we the same? You're dad's doctor?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
And as his doctor, I can't tell you what he says. I can tell you that self-esteem was mentioned. What else did Russ say?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
We didn't love Zek. We suffocated him.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
He's right.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Aunt Jenny?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
He always felt drained after an evening with you two. You drained him dry. He tried very hard to keep the lines of communication open. It took its toll.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
He said that?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Yes. He just never told you. Everything Russ and Josh said was true. You and your father are something else. You couldn't pay me enough to live in your house. I don't know how May does it.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Are we that bad?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
You want the truth or a polite answer?
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Does that include me too?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Only when you're with Frank. Andrew, the Greenes were only giving you tough love. It seems the only way to get through to you Hock men is with a sledgehammer. That was Zek's secret. You remember what he did when Frank started drinking again? How he pulled the stool out from under him?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Yes.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
And he threw you at him and humiliated him in front of you. And then he dragged him out of Charlie's kicking and screaming?
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Zek did that? That gentle man?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Yes, Gunther. Then he brought him home and threw him inside and left him to face his family. That was my Zek. I was never so proud of him as I was that night. He finally did what I've wanted to do for years. And he didn't have to go to medical school to learn it.
She pulls out an ugly sweater.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
I can see it like it was yesterday.
(starting to cry)
It's strange. With every shirt or sweater I pull out I see him in it. I can still smell him in this one.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Dad bought him that. Zek loved it.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
He hated it. The minute you left he changed. He said this was the ugliest sweater he ever saw. What was Frank thinking?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
It is pretty ugly.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
How long can you stay?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Not so long.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Call your dad and tell him you'll be late. I'll drive you home.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Yes, Aunt Jenny.
He leaves. She starts to pack the sweater but stops and puts it back in the drawer.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
I thought you hated that?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Zek hated it. I think I'll keep it.
CUT TO:
SCENE EIGHT
EXT. STREET. NIGHT
Andrew is walking out of the local shop-and- rob. A young woman sees him and goes up to him. She is LINDA BURROWS.
LINDA BURROWS
Andrew?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Yes?
LINDA BURROWS
Don't you remember me? Linda from sophomore English?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Burrows? I remember you. You've changed.
LINDA BURROWS
I've grown up. You live around here?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Just up the street. You live here?
LINDA BURROWS
I have a studio a block away.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
You live alone?
LINDA BURROWS
I'm over eighteen.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
You're right.
LINDA BURROWS
Why don't you walk with me? It's on your way.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Sure. Why not?
They start walking.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
So, what have you been doing since high school?
LINDA BURROWS
I'm working. I never wanted to go back to school. I'm a model.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
What do you model?
LINDA BURROWS
Lingerie. I hear you've become quite famous. I saw Trinity at Germanfest. You're pretty good with a guitar. Are your fingers that fast with girls?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
A gentleman doesn't answer that.
They stop by a door.
LINDA BURROWS
Here I am. Care to come up for a drink?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
You're too young to buy booze.
LINDA BURROWS
A friend of mine gets it for me. Come on up. I won't bite.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
(looking at watch)
I've got time. Why not?
She opens up the door.
CUT TO:
SCENE NINE
INT. STUDIO. NIGHT. -- MOMENTS LATER
They enter. As she turns on the light, Andrew looks around.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I thought my house was small?
LINDA BURROWS
It's a small start but pretty soon I'll make enough money to get a bigger place.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
All this because you walk around in your underwear?
LINDA BURROWS
I do more than just walk around. I make the underwear look good. It's my job.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
(checking her out)
You must do it well.
LINDA BURROWS
Have a seat. I'll get us some drinks.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Where? All I see is a bed.
LINDA BURROWS
(approaching him)
I know. That's why I brought you here.
She puts her arms around his neck.
LINDA BURROWS
When I saw you at Germanfest, something clicked. I knew I had to know you better.
She starts to kiss his neck.
LINDA BURROWS
Take off your coat and stay awhile. I'll make it worth your while.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
(pulling away)
Look, Linda. We don't know each other. Aren't you rushing this?
LINDA BURROWS
I've been watching you for weeks. I followed you today. You turn me on.
She kisses him.
LINDA BURROWS
Stay awhile. We can have fun. I'll let you bite me.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
(pulling away)
Not tonight.
(under his breath)
I don't believe I'm saying this.
LINDA BURROWS
(approaching him again)
Lighten up.
(kisses him again)
Please, stay.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
(putting arms around her)
Said the spider.
LINDA BURROWS
To the fly.
He kisses her back as she turns off the light.
CUT TO:
SCENE TEN
INT. STUDIO. NIGHT. -- LATER
Time has passed. Clothes are on the floor. Two lumps are under the blanket. Andrew looks up and sees her smiling at him.
LINDA BURROWS
Hey there.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Hey.
(looks at watch)
It's late. I really have to go. It's finals week. I need to study.
LINDA BURROWS
Study me instead.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Believe me. I'd love to, but I can't. I need to pass this bullshit course for my GPA.
LINDA BURROWS
(licking ear lobe)
Trust me. You pass.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
(getting up to find clothes)
Maybe next time. After finals.
LINDA BURROWS
(pulling him back)
Finals can wait. I can't.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I don't believe this is happening.
LINDA BURROWS
Neither do I. You're the first cherry I've ever had.
(kissing his neck)
I recognize a virgin when I see one. You know the best thing about virgins?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
No.
LINDA BURROWS
They're ripe for the training.
(nibbles on ears)
I love training.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Linda, this was very nice but I have to study.
LINDA BURROWS
Which would you rather study? Me or bullshit?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
(pushing her back on bed)
You.
(kisses her)
And that's no bullshit.
CUT TO:
SCENE ELEVEN
INT. FRANK'S HOUSE. NIGHT. -- LATER
It is very late. Andrew comes in quietly. He does not see Frank reading on a chair. He starts to go up the stairs.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Late night. I thought you had finals?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I'll do fine.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
(walking to stairs)
Something come up?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
You could say that. Night.
He goes upstairs. Frank goes back to the chair and picks up his book again. TESS the ANGEL shows up.
TESS - ANGEL
(shaking her head)
Father, we have a problem here.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
SCENE ONE
INT. HIGH SCHOOL GYM. NIGHT
Andrew and Josh are setting up. Josh stares at him. Russ has more instruments to give them off stage. He is far enough to hear.
JOSH GREENE
You okay, Andrew?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I'm fine.
JOSH GREENE
Something's different since last week. You've changed. You got a girl.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Yes, I did. I finally got a piece of tail.
JOSH GREENE
A groupie?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Yeah, and she was very obliging.
JOSH GREENE
They usually are. Well, you've made up my mind. I was so relieved to find someone who didn't need that type of thing. I guess I was wrong. I've been thinking of a way to tell you this. I'm leaving the band. Trinity is your dream, not mine. Tonight's my last night, and I'm taking Dinah with me. You know this band was named after three holy beings. They would be disappointed with you. What do you think Uncle Zek would say?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
He'd say I'm finally growing up.
JOSH GREENE
You named the band from a holy source. Maybe it's time you changed the name.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Asshole.
JOSH GREENE
Takes one to know one.
Josh walks away. He sees Linda watching. Andrew looks up and waves. Russ sees her.
CUT TO:
SCENE TWO
INT. SCHOOL HALLWAY. NIGHT. -- LATER
Russ and Josh are walking down the hall. As they pass a closet, they hear a couple enjoying themselves. They recognize Andrew's voice.
RUSSELL GREENE
Like father, like son.
The two walk on.
CUT TO:
SCENE THREE
INT. STUDIO. NIGHT
It is dark. Voices are heard. A knock is heard on the door. Two figures are seen in the shadows. They are Linda and HARRY, TRINITY'S GUITARIST.
HARRY - GUITARIST
Who the hell is that?
LINDA BURROWS
How should I know? I'll get it.
She gets up and puts a sheet around her and goes to the door and opens it ajar. It is Andrew and he is holding a pizza.
LINDA BURROWS
Andrew, what are you doing here?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
My exams are over. I have a free night. I brought pizza. Is someone else in there?
LINDA BURROWS
You wanted to know.
She opens the door and Andrew sees Harry.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Harry?
LINDA BURROWS
What did you expect, monogamy? We were just having fun. It didn't mean anything.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I was so stupid. I gave up my friends for you. There is a name for girls like you. It usually involves an exchange of money.
(to Harry)
Have fun, Harry, she's a good ride.
Andrew walks away still holding the pizza.
CUT TO:
SCENE FOUR
EXT. RV. NIGHT. -- LATER
Russ is sitting on a bench outside the RV. Andrew walks up still holding the pizza.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Hello, Mr. Greene.
RUSSELL GREENE
Hello Andrew. What can I do for you?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I came to see Dinah.
RUSSELL GREENE
She's at the library. Josh will be picking her up at closing time.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I see.
RUSSELL GREENE
I'll tell her you were looking for her. Picking up dinner?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Don't bother.
He puts the pizza on the table.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Merry Christmas. Night, sir.
Andrew starts to walk away.
RUSSELL GREENE
Andrew?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
(turning)
Yes?
RUSSELL GREENE
I overheard you and Josh and I have something to say.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Some more tough love?
RUSSELL GREENE
(walking to him)
No, just some advice. Groupies are not only a lonely life; they're medically dangerous. If she was obliging to you she was with someone else. Who knows where they've been? One night with the wrong person could be a death sentence. You remember that. Thanks for the pizza.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I will, sir. You're welcome.
Andrew walks away.
CUT TO:
SCENE FIVE
INT. FRANK'S HOUSE. NIGHT. -- LATER
Andrew comes in and starts to go up the stairs. Frank sees him.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Late night, again? You've made a habit of those.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I'm old enough.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
We got a call from the police. Paul finally identified the other two men. They were your former friends. They got out of the hall and went back to their old tricks. Some people never learn. I'm glad you did.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
So am I.
CUT TO:
SCENE SIX
INT. ANDREW'S ROOM. NIGHT. -- MOMENTS LATER
Frank quietly enters the room. Andrew is just lying on the bed.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Got a minute?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I've got all night. What's up?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I came to ask you a question.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Shoot.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
You've changed this past week. Something has happened. You've become a real man. Who was it?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
No one important.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
A boy becomes a man and the girl is not important?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Just some groupie.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Well, how was it?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Not very memorable.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Now you know how it feels.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Felt. You and mom haven't been close since Zek died. This house has thin walls. I hear everything. I've gotten plenty of sleep.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
That's normal. Couples have dry spells.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Not you and mom. You're crazy about each other.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
It's only temporary. I'll leave you alone now.
Frank turns to go to the door.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Dad?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
(turning)
Yes?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
What's it like when you're in love?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Heaven. Night, son.
Frank leaves.
CUT TO:
SCENE SEVEN
EXT. CHURCH GRAVEYARD. DAY
Russ and Claire are walking out of a church.
CLAIRE GREENE
I'll get the car.
RUSSELL GREENE
I'll be there in a few minutes. I need to see someone.
CLAIRE GREENE
I'll be waiting with the kids.
Russ walks over to Zek's grave and leans on one knee.
RUSSELL GREENE
Hey, Zek. How you doin'? It's me, Russ. I came to say hello. We all miss you. You left a real mess. The Hocks are breaking up. They need your help. I'm sure you can see that. You know I've asked the boss to help, but he hasn't done anything yet. Maybe he will in his own time. I just wish he'd hurry.
Maybe you could rush him. A good woman's heart is breaking. Maybe he could send some extra help? May could really use an angel now. God, please help her.
Tess appears.
TESS - ANGEL
He already sent help, you.
RUSSELL GREENE
Me? How can I help? This needs immediate attention. I've tried. I can't get through to them. My kids have left the group. I have little dealings with Frank at work. The only one left is Claire.
TESS - ANGEL
Claire is all you need. She will be your eyes and ears. You've done everything else, already. You prayed to God to help May. He's heard your prayers.
RUSSELL GREENE
And when will he answer them?
TESS - ANGEL
In his own time, not yours. Now how about a hug?
RUSSELL GREENE
I thought you would never ask.
They hug.
TESS - ANGEL
You have a good heart. Most people ask God to help themselves. You ask for others.
(pulling away)
Frank's coming.
Frank approaches and does not see Tess.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Hey, Russ.
RUSSELL GREENE
Frank, I was wondering when you'd come.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I come here every Sunday. It's nice to finally see a stone. It makes it more permanent.
RUSSELL GREENE
I'll leave you two alone.
Russ walks away far enough to hear. Frank sits on his knee.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Hey, Zek. It's me. The old pain-in-the-ass. I've come to see you again. How you doin'? Are you finally at peace? I wish I were. Ever since you died, my family has fallen apart. May is always crying. Andrew became a man with some groupie, who later dumped him. He's grown up on me. I used to be able to talk to him as a child. Now I can't. He's a man.
(starts crying)
I don't know how to talk to him as a man. What do I say to him?
Tess comes by and puts his head.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I miss you so much. I need your help. Why did you have to go now? I love you, Zek.
He hangs his head. Tess bends down and kisses the top of his head and stands up. Frank rubs his head.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I have to go. May and the kids are waiting. See you next Sunday.
Frank walks away. Tess walks up to Russ.
TESS - ANGEL
His heart is breaking.
RUSSELL GREENE
The whole family is. Why didn't you let him see you?
TESS - ANGEL
You don't need to see us to get our help.
(opening arms)
One more hug.
Russ hugs her. He turns to look at the grave and turns back. She is gone. He looks up.
RUSSELL GREENE
God, if you have something planned, do it soon. Amen.
CUT TO:
SCENE EIGHT
INT. ZEK'S HOUSE. DAY
Gunther is in the living room listening to Beethoven. The bell rings and he opens the door.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Francis?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Hi, dad. Can I come in?
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
You need to ask? Come in.
He comes in and looks around.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Boy, you really de-Zek'd this house. It's like he was never here.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
It was Jenny's idea. She wants to give us our own space. You want a soda?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Yeah, sure.
Gunther goes and gets a beer and soda.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
You don't mind me having a beer? I can still drink.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
You always did like your German beer.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Sit down. Tell me what's on your mind.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I had to tell someone. I didn't know who. It's Andrew.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
What about him?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
He's a man.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
I know he is.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
No, he's finally a man. He...Beethoven.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Who was she?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
A groupie.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
A what?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
A fan of the band. She made a point of getting to know them, personally.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Oh, one of those. Well, at least he'll know what to do when the right girl comes. It's always better if the man knows.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I'd rather it would be someone he cared for.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
That's how you learned. You had good teachers.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Not the type of teachers I want my son to have.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
At least he'll know technique. Love is nice, but sometimes technique is nicer. He'll be able to make his love very happy. Girls should never be knowledgeable.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Dad, women have changed. Even the nicest girls tell us what they want.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
I still prefer the old days.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
What was it like with mom, love or technique?
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
A little of this, alot of that, and visa versa. It was never dull.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
And Dolly?
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
I'm an old man, Francis. My spirit is always willing but my flesh isn't. I'm old. She's old. It can never be like your mother. My get up and go has gone up and left. Still, we love each other. That's all that counts. I'm not young like you.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Dad, tell me what to say to him? How do I treat him as a man and not a child? He knows now.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Let him find out for himself. You did. Your job is done. Let him be a man.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I feel so silly coming here. May did the same thing when the middle girls became women. She told anyone who would listen. They were so embarrassed. I just had to tell someone.
(looks at watch)
I better get home. May's already started making dinner.
Frank and Gunther rise.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
I'm glad you told me. I can go to my grave knowing I may be a great grandfather.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I just hope it isn't too soon. I'm too young to be a grandfather.
They walk to the door.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Bye, Francis.
He leaves. Gunther goes to the stereo and blares Beethoven and smiles.
CUT TO:
SCENE NINE
INT. COFFEE ROOM. DAY
Jenny is sitting, drinking coffee and looking at the ads. Russ comes by and sits across from her.
RUSSELL GREENE
Any luck?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
(looking up)
Russ?
RUSSELL GREENE
You didn't answer my question. I see a lot of circles but no successes.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
I haven't found a condo. Some are too expensive. Some are too small. And when I do find one I like, they don't take dogs. I refuse to give up Andy. He's all I have left of Zek.
RUSSELL GREENE
How is Andy?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
He's back to mooching. I don't know what Frank told him.
RUSSELL GREENE
It was Zek, not Frank who talked to Andy. We just didn't hear. I didn't think a condo was that hard to find. There are so many now.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
They're worse than apartments. You would think when you buy one; you can have a dog. They allow cats and birds, but no dogs. Andy needs me.
RUSSELL GREENE
I think you need him more.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
You're right. How are the Hocks doing?
RUSSELL GREENE
Not good. Son does not talk to father. His father does not talk to his father. You put those three together and all you get is silence. They have to be FORCED to talk to each other.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
How? They're already under the same roof.
RUSSELL GREENE
Not good enough. We have to do something.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
What? Short of locking them in an elevator, there's no way.
RUSSELL GREENE
What if you asked maintenance?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
I will not endanger a patient for them.
RUSSELL GREENE
You're on the board.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
So is Frank. I can't Russ.
RUSSELL GREENE
It was a thought. I'll leave you to your paper.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
There aren't any here.
RUSSELL GREENE
I get the impression you're changing your mind.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
I am. I just don't know how to tell Gunther. I promised him and Dolly. His area is dangerous and he worries about both their safety.
RUSSELL GREENE
Can't you keep them as renters?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
I'll figure it out. I just can't sell the house. Zek is still in there.
RUSSELL GREENE
You'll figure it out. Catch you later, Doc.
Russ leaves. Jenny goes back to the paper.
CUT TO:
SCENE TEN
INT. ELEVATOR. DAY. -- LATER
Russ enters an elevator. Frank and Andrew are in there.
RUSSELL GREENE
Hey, guys. Where you headed?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I'm headed down.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
And I'm headed up.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
What goes up must come down?
The door opens and Tess enters. Only Russ can see her.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I hate it when people press buttons just to aggravate others. There's never anybody there.
RUSSELL GREENE
I know what you mean.
He looks at Tess and smiles.
RUSSELL GREENE
It's a rotten prank.
The door opens.
RUSSELL GREENE
My floor. See you later.
CUT TO:
SCENE ELEVEN
INT. HALLWAY. DAY. -- MOMENTS LATER
Russ leaves smiling. He goes to a water fountain and starts to drink as an alarm goes off. He sees people run to the elevator.
MAN ONE
There's two people in there.
MAN TWO
Who?
MAN ONE
Mr. Hockenberry and his son.
Russ turns and smiles. He looks up.
RUSSELL GREENE
Thank you Lord.
Tess appears.
TESS - ANGEL
You're welcome.
RUSSELL GREENE
Did you do that?
TESS - ANGEL
I helped.
(hands him wrench)
I think you should hide this.
RUSSELL GREENE
Why Tess? You scoundrel.
(holding wrench)
That's the best present I've ever gotten. How long will they be in there?
TESS - ANGEL
For as long as it takes. You asked for a miracle. It's up to them now.
Tess walks away. Jenny runs up to Russ and he hides the wrench.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Russ, is it true? Are they really trapped?
RUSSELL GREENE
Yes.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Did you do that?
RUSSELL GREENE
No, it happened just after I got out. Don't worry about them. They're in God's safe hands.
Russ walks away smiling.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
What does that mean?
CUT TO:
SCENE TWELVE
INT. ELEVATOR. DAY. -- MOMENTS LATER
Frank is on the phone.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
One hour! We have a maintenance agreement. They should be here earlier than that. Well, get them here!
He slams down the phone.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
What did they say?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
The elevator people are stuck in traffic. They're estimating an hour. Well, at least we can open the top and get air if we need it.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
We are between floors. If they open the door to the top floor, we can climb out.
Frank glares at him.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Don't look at me. I saw it in the movies.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
You need to get a life.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
You got any better ideas? I'm all ears.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
And all mouth as usual.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
What is your problem?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
You.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Cause I got laid and you didn't?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Don't take that tone with me, young man. I'm your father.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Yeah, prove it, and I don't mean biology.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Don't get me angry. You know my temper.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Go ahead. Slap me. You've done it before. Who is to stop you, Zek?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Leave him out of this.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Why do I bother with you? You never wanted me. I'm only here because of a broken condom. You know how that makes me feel? I feel dirty because of a mistake YOU made. You had to be cheap at the drug store.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I have never seen you like that. You are my SON, not a piece of broken rubber. I love you.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Then why do you feel I've ruined your life?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
When did I say that?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Whenever you talk about your life, you always say how you gave up so much for me. If mom hadn't gotten knocked up, you would have done it right. You would have waited to get married to have kids. I wouldn't even be here.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Andrew, please stop. You've said enough.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
No I haven't. What if I hadn't happened? Would you have used mom till you got tired of her?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I loved your mother. I would never use her like that.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Right. We guys do that all the time. Why should you be any different? Why should you buy the product after you used it for free?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Don't blame me for what happened to you. I would never use your mother like that.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Why not? All the other American GI's did. All our women were to you were---
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Don't say that word. My friends may have been pros, but it was not their choice.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
It was your choice to patron them.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I never said I was a saint. I did the best I could. Your mother is the way she is because I helped her.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
After you bought her.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
One piece of tail and you become an expert?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Why not you were, Dr. Hockenberry? This is what you really wanted to be, isn't it? I ruined that for you. I ruined everything you wanted, even your physical life. You died because of me.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
You weren't to blame. It was the thugs.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
That were paid to get revenge, for me. Don't tell you don't resent that? I heard you wake up screaming when you finally remembered.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
That happens to every crime victim. I haven't done it in years.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
And you don't resent me?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
No.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Tell me the truth. Look me in the eyes and tell me.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Yes, I resent it. Getting drunk against my will was no picnic. It wasn't even good liquor. You want the truth, I'll tell you. I DID hate you for what you did to me. Part of me still does. You robbed me of my career when you were born.
And when I finally found a career I liked, you robbed me again. I hated baby foods. I hated waking up scared every night. I hated being told I had to leave my job to save my life. I hated begging for a job in Administration just to keep a roof over our heads. And I hated the job when I finally got it. Satisfied. All my cards are on the table.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
And so are mine.
Frank calms down and approaches Andrew.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
But I never hated you. From the day your mother told me, I wanted you. Even now, trapped in this damn elevator, you are the best part of me. I see what I could have become. I love you, Andrew. And nothing in this world can ever change that. God gave me the best presents I ever had. You, your mom, your sisters, you are my life. I wouldn't trade any part of it if you paid me.
He takes Andrew's hands.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I know I haven't been the best father in the world. On a scale of one to ten, I'm not even a five. I'm only doing the best I can with what God chose to give me.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I know you are. I may not say it, and lately I've been a real pain. But, in my eyes, you are a ten. You're the only father I would ever want.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Where does that leave Zek?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Uncle Zek helped me when I needed it. I was wrong always running to him. I should have been running to you. You're my REAL father.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
And I was wrong running to Zek when my father came back. I see that now. Can you forgive me?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Yes. Can you forgive me?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Yes.
They hug and the elevator starts again. The men part. Frank starts laughing.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
What's so funny?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I think somebody planned this. This is just like him. And he probably had help.
The door opens.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I believe this is my floor.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I'll get out with you. All of a sudden I want the stairs.
Frank takes Andrew's hands again.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I'll be a little late going home. I have an errand to run.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I already know what it is. Let's go, dad. People want the elevator.
The two exit.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
SCENE ONE
INT. ZEK'S HOUSE. NIGHT. -- LATER
Gunther is watching TV and the bell rings. He goes to the door.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Francis? Two times in one week?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I need to see you.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Come in.
He enters.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Where are Jenny and Dolly?
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Shopping. It's just me and Andy.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Is there somewhere we can talk in private? I don't want anyone else to hear this.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Let's go to my bedroom. We'll close the door.
CUT TO:
SCENE TWO
INT. GUNTHER'S BEDROOM. NIGHT. -- MOMENTS LATER
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
So, what do you want to talk about?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
First I have to tell you what happened today. Andrew and I were stuck in an elevator together. The technicians never found out what was wrong. It just stopped. While we were waiting, we started talking. Talking turned into yelling. We let all our real feelings out. I would love to know what other people thought. I'm sure they could hear us.
Well, after it was over, and we finally made up, the elevator started. I swear it's like somebody planned it. I'm babbling. Let me get to the point. After it was over, we both felt like a weight was taken off our chests. All those months of therapy were worth nothing. Fifteen minutes in a trapped elevator did more good.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
What has this to do with me?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I want to do the same with you.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Jenny doesn't have an elevator.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
We don't need one. We just need each other, and a lot of privacy.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Where do you want to start?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
With Zek dying. After he died, I made the mistake of calling him my father. He was a lot of things, but he was never my father. You were, and still are. I blamed my resentment of you on the last thirty years. I was wrong. It began much sooner. It began when mom was still alive. That's where we should start.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Your mother was a fine woman. She loved you very much. I could never compete with you. You were HER little boy. Your brother was mine. It's a shame you never knew him. You would have been good friends.
When she died, I was lost. I didn't know what to do with you. I didn't even know who you were. So, I did the only thing I knew. I became your grandfather. He was a tough man. He never showed love openly. It was not...what do they call it, macho. I raised you the only way I could, with a stern hand. I know you resented me. You were a free spirit, just like your mother. You rebelled.
I knew about the drugs. I pretended not to notice when you came home and your hair and clothes didn't smell like regular cigarettes. And then there were the girls. One day I was in your room when I saw an open drawer. I went to close it and saw what was inside. You had an open box of condoms. You were sixteen. I don't even know when you started.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I was thirteen. She was my baby-sitter. I was stoned and she was horny. After that, it became a habit.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Then you met that one girl. I thought you would calm down. Instead, you moved into a---"
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Commune. A rather large family devoted to sex, drugs and rock and roll.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
When you got drafted, I was relieved. I kept hoping this will finally make you grow up. I worried about you every day. I would watch the news and see the body bags. I prayed it wouldn't be you.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
You were right. I did grow up. Only, not the man you wanted me to be. The war destroyed me.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
It destroyed me to. When I got that letter, I didn't know what to do. I didn't raise a child molester. You were a lot of things, but you would never hurt a child. When I finally saw you and asked, you said you couldn't remember. You were drunk when you said it. I saw my sweet little boy in front on me, drunk and not able to remember if he hurt a young girl of fifteen. After you left, I never spoke of you again. You were garbage. You were dead to me.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I was dead to myself. If Zek hadn't found me, I'd probably be dead now.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
And I would never have known. I didn't hear from you for ten years. And then you sent me the wedding invitation that I sent back in pieces. If I had gone, I would have met May, found out the truth, and we would have twenty years to grow together. I would have held my grandchildren when they were born; I would have seen their first steps; I would have heard their first words. I would not have been alone.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
It's too late for that. You can't change the past.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
I was alone for thirty years. You were having a family. You had people to love you. I had no one.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
You have us now.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
What good is it? I'll be dead in a few years. I missed valuable years with you. Then my hip went out. While I was at home I got Andrew's letter. I read it a thousand times. I looked at your family picture and realized how much I missed you.
Then came your trial. I more I read about you and your life, I realized I was wrong. Only it was too late, so I thought. I went to the trial. I sat there everyday and listened. I watched you and Andrew. Only Zek knew I was there. I made a point of avoiding you, till the day they read my letter. I saw that man tear you apart and I wanted to scream "Leave my son alone!" When you said what happened to that child, I felt so ashamed. I was so wrong about you.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
You didn't know, dad.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
That's why I followed you into the men's room. I listened as you told Zek you still needed me. I couldn't stop myself. You were my little boy and you were scared. I wanted to make the monsters go away. Thank God for Zek. He did for you what I should have done. He saved your life and your soul.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Zek did save my life, but God saved my soul. I had extra help.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Yes, you did have three angels. I mean the real ones; Zek, Jenny and Mayling. They saved your soul.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Let's not argue theology. We're straying.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Yes we are. What were your feelings?
CUT TO:
SCENE THREE
INT. ZEK'S HOUSE. NIGHT. -- CONTINUOUS
Jenny comes in with some bags. She hears voices and goes by Gunther's room. She recognizes them and smiles.
CUT TO:
SCENE FOUR
INT. GUNTHER'S BEDROOM. NIGHT. -- CONTINUOUS
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
What were MY feelings? Where do I begin?
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
With your mother.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I loved mom. She was the most beautiful woman I ever saw. When she got sick, I didn't understand. I never heard of cancer before. All I remember is you crying and pushing me away.
When she died, you became a stone. It was like living with Hitler. Everything was regimented. I hated that. So I rebelled. The sixties came at the right time. I got stoned because I liked it. Sex was my middle name.
When I got drafted, I became the man you saw. I won't make excuses for myself. That was my fault. I couldn't kill and they made me. Then came the incident with May. I really couldn't remember. It was an average night for me. I forgot a lot of things. When I came home and you threw me out, I felt alone. So, I went and hid in the nearest hole I could find.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Hubbard Street.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I hated you. I hated me. I hated the world. I made sure no one I knew would ever find me again, not even myself.
Then came the invite. Zek was arranging a reunion of the platoon. The last thing I wanted to see was their faces. The day I left, they ALL turned their backs to me as I walked by.
Zek came looking for me and found me. He took me in. I slept in this very room until I moved out. I fought them all the way. My outside wounds healed but my inside ones never did. And then one day Andrew appeared in my room. He told me to get dressed and meet him on the front steps. I did and quietly crept outside.
He was sitting there and I joined him. He told me to accept God's love. He tried that before and it didn't work, but that day was different. The sun started coming up and we both watched it. Something changed in me. I felt my heart open. Andrew just sat quietly and looked at the sky. When it was over, the hate was gone. I felt alive. Zek came out in his robe and saw us there. He just shook his head and went back inside.
Then May got pregnant. The day of our wedding, I got your answer to the invite. It told me all I needed to know. I had no real father. There was only Zek.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Zek was a good man.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
The years went by and I forgot about you. I didn't think of you till the trial and the letter. That day in court was pure hell. I wanted a drink so bad. When you came out of the bathroom stall, I couldn't believe it. I was so scared and I wanted my daddy and there you were.
All this time, we've been going around this reconciliation wrong. We've tried to see each other as adult men. That's not what we REALLY are. We are father and son. I'm your little boy. I lost you when I was young. That's where we should begin. All this talk of watermelons and Beethoven doesn't mean a thing. I'm still twelve years old and I miss my mommy and daddy.
A tear runs down his cheek.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
You're my daddy and I love you.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
(stroking his hair)
And you're my little boy and I love you.
The two men hug as Frank starts to cry.
CUT TO:
SCENE FIVE
INT. ZEK'S HOUSE. NIGHT. -- CONTINUOUS
Jenny stands pleased.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Gunther, you're almost as good as me.
She walks away.
CUT TO:
SCENE SIX
INT. GUNTHER'S BEDROOM. NIGHT. -- CONTINUOUS
The two men part.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
This past month since Zek died, I have been so wrong. He wasn't my father. He was just a good friend whom I confused for my father. You are my father. You will always be. Can you forgive me?
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
I forgive you. Can you forgive me?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Yes.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
I am so proud of you. If you weren't wearing shoes and socks, I'd probably be counting your fingers and toes. Are there still twenty?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Haven't lost one yet.
The two men hug as Jenny enters with a bag. They part and turn.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
I knew I heard voices.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
You're early. Where's Dolly?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Getting her hair done at the beauty shop. I have something for you, Frank.
(gives him bag)
I didn't have the heart to give it away.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
(pulling out sweater)
Zek's sweater? I got him this. It really is ugly. What was I thinking?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
I wanted to give you something to remember him by. You don't have to wear it. I wouldn't.
Frank gets up and walks to her.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Thank you.
(hugs her)
I'll cherish it. I just won't wear it.
The two part and Jenny sits next to Gunther.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Gunther, there's something I have to say to you. I want Frank to hear this too. I have been lying to you. All this month I have found condos. I just couldn't start the paper work. I can't sell this house. Zek is still here. I know I promised you and I'm sorry. I can't.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
I knew you couldn't. There's no need to apologize.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
But there is something we can do. Nothing has changed. You still have to move. It's not safe for you and Dolly. There's only two of you. All you need is a one-bedroom house, maybe two.
You sell your house and take that money and buy one here. That way you can be with your family. There's some houses available on this block. We'll go see the Realtor tomorrow. Who knows? Maybe we'll be neighbors?
Till you do, you can stay as my guests, for as long as it takes. This house needs people. As long as I'm alive you will have a roof over your heads. But remember one thing, I am not Zek. I will not be suffocated. As soon as that house is yours, you're out of here. You have a life to. It that okay with you?
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
(looking at Frank)
What do you think, Francis? You think we can live in the same town without killing each other?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I think so.
(sits next to Gunther)
And when you do move, you have ten hands to help you. That's a hundred fingers.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
I would like to live here, very much. I will take your offer, Jenny. I just have one question. Francis, I can move my furniture and my wife, but what do I do with your personal things? I never changed your room after you left. Your trophies are still there.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I've forgotten who that man was. I guess I'll take them. Jenny, now that you're keeping the house, how about bringing Zek back. Where are his things?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
In boxes in the basement. Gunther helped me pack them.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Let's get them out. I'll help you.
Frank and Jenny both get up. She walks up to him and kisses him on the cheek.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
What was that for?
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
For letting Zek go.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Jenny, you have helped me so much over the years. You're family as much as my blood relatives. I have never really thanked you the right way. I'm going to change that right now.
He puts his finger under her chin, raises her head and kisses her gently on the lips.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Thank you.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
(surprised)
That was very good, Frank. But you better leave that for May.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
I intend to. I'm going to give her a whole month's worth. Show me where the boxes are. Dad and I will help you tomorrow. Tonight I want him home with us.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
What about Dolly?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
She deserves a night out with the girls. I'm sure Jenny can find something to do. Get your coat, dad. We'll be leaving in a few minutes.
Frank and Gunther leave. Jenny stands as Andy comes to her. She leans down and pets him.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Hello, Andy. It looks like everything will be okay. I'm sure your daddy is happy and watching right now.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Jenny, the boxes.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
I'll be right there.
Jenny and Andy leave the room.
CUT TO:
SCENE SEVEN
INT. ZEK'S BEDROOM. NIGHT. -- LATER
She enters and closes the door behind her. She starts to pull down the blankets as Andy enters. She hears and turns.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Oh, Andy.
(goes to him)
Can't you sleep alone for once? You're a big boy. You can do it.
(petting him)
Okay, one more night. I know you miss your daddy. I do too. He was a wonderful man. He snored like a chainsaw, knew nothing about garbage disposals, and didn't have the heart to tell his friends the truth, even when he did hate his presents. He wasn't perfect, but he was all I wanted.
She sits on the bed and Andy jumps on it and lies down. She continues petting him. ZEK ANDERSON appears and sits next to her silently.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Sometimes, late at night, I feel he's here. I can't explain it but all of a sudden I'll feel safe.
Andy puts his head up and looks at Zek and smiles.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Do you see him? Is he here now?
ZEK ANDERSON
(puts hand on her shoulder)
Yes, I'm here, Jenny. I will be here as long as you need me. I will always be in your heart as you are in mine.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
I wish I knew what Zek told you. Whatever it was, you listened.
ZEK ANDERSON
I told him to take care of you, my love.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
(standing)
Well, get off the bed. I need to pull back the blankets.
Andy does. Zek stands up and walks to the door. Andy looks at him. She pulls down the blankets and reaches for her nightgown. Zek walks to the door and Andy keeps watching him. Jenny watches Andy.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Something wrong, Andy? Do you see something?
Zek leaves and Andy looks back at her.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
He WAS here, wasn't he?
She sits on the bed and starts to cry.
DR. SEYMORE-ANDERSON
Well, Zek, it's over. The Hocks are doing fine. You gave them just what they needed. You did a good job.
She grabs a pillow and holds it. Andy jumps on the bed and lies next to her.
CUT TO:
SCENE EIGHT
INT. RV PARK. NIGHT
Russ is alone watching a football game on TV. There is a knock on the door and he opens it. It is Tess.
RUSSELL GREENE
Tess, what are you doing here?
TESS - ANGEL
I'm off duty. Can I come in?
RUSSELL GREENE
Yeah, sure. I was watching football.
TESS - ANGEL
Where's the family?
RUSSELL GREENE
In town doing errands. They're bringing back pizza later.
He sees a videotape in her hand.
RUSSELL GREENE
You brought a movie?
TESS - ANGEL
I thought we could watch it. Unless, you'd rather see the game?
RUSSELL GREENE
I'd rather see the tape. Have a seat.
He takes the tape and puts it in as they sit down. It is Frank's house.
RUSSELL GREENE
What's this?
TESS - ANGEL
A video in the making.
RUSSELL GREENE
This is really happening?
TESS - ANGEL
Right now. Watch.
CUT TO:
SCENE NINE
INT. FRANK'S DINING ROOM. NIGHT. -- CONTINUOUS
All the Hocks minus Dolly are seated around the table.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Let's take hands and say Grace.
(They do.)
God, thank you for the food we are about to receive and thank you for broken elevators. Amen.
(lets go)
Let's eat.
They start.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
How are classes going, Andrew?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Okay. I just hate philosophy.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
What are you learning?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Aristotle. He is boring.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
How boring?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Someone fell asleep in class and started snoring.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
That bad. Can't you drop the class?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I can't. It's a bullshit course.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Andrew, your sisters are here. Should you be using those words in front of them? Aristotle was a fine man.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
He was an old Greek who died thousands of years ago. Did you have to take him, dad?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
They didn't teach him in Vietnam, thank God. He's your problem.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Coward!
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Damn right!
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Francis, behave! Your daughters are here.
Mayling looks around the table and starts smiling.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
What else did you learn?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
I had one class last quarter that was just as bad.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Philosophy?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
What else? The teacher even said that animals don't have souls, and that includes pets. I thought the class was going to jump him.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
That's not true. I know Andy does. He proved it when Zek died. He was grieving.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
That was quite a miracle you did with the dog.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
That was not a miracle. He didn't eat for three days. I just put the chicken under his nose to get him hungry. It worked.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
You believe all animals have souls?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
Yes.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Even George?
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
George loves me. He smiles.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Lizards do not smile. It's your imagination.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
He does too smile. I've seen him.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
You boys need glasses. How about you, May? Did you read philosophy?
MAYLING HOCKENBERRY
The only philosophy we had in Vietnam was Communism.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
At least you were spared Aristotle.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
What does he say?
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
You really want to know?
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
Yes.
FRANK HOCKENBERRY
So do I.
GUNTHER HOCKENBERRY
I think we all would.
ANDREW HOCKENBERRY
Okay. I'll try to keep you awake. He does mention the soul. He says the soul---
CUT TO:
SCENE TEN
INT. RV PARK. NIGHT. -- CONTINUOUS
Tess turns off the VCR.
RUSSELL GREENE
Hey! I was watching that. I want to hear about Aristotle.
TESS - ANGEL
I didn't bring this for Aristotle. You prayed for a miracle and I wanted to show it to you. God does answer prayers. All you had to do was look at May's face.
RUSSELL GREENE
Yes, he does. I still would like to know what he said.
TESS - ANGEL
You might as well. I have a feeling Frank will want to tell you tomorrow at coffee.
RUSSELL GREENE
You were around then? Did you know him?
TESS - ANGEL
Yes.
(annoyed)
I knew him. His ideas were not dry. They were mine. Actually, I was only repeating them from a higher source. I just enhanced them a little. Aristotle had writer's block and I came down to help. The ideas are not boring. Just his writing was. He could put anyone to sleep. I'll give you the ideas as they were meant to be. How much time do you have?
RUSSELL GREENE
They're not due back for two hours. That's why I was watching football. Can you stay that long?
TESS - ANGEL
(smiling)
Yes. Let me start with the soul, human and animal.
FADE OUT: