Why Vinnie Carponzo Hates Trains

A Screenplay By

Michael Fox

Story By Corey Strong

OPENING TITLE SESSION

FADE IN:

1. EXT. - RAILROAD - DAY

The color is made up of brown and white. That is all. For this is not a story of laughter or love. Its dark bliss is not to be shown in color that so many use to exempt such emotions. For it is a story of such bliss and depicts certain issues in scenes and dialogue that I’m not particularly proud to write about. The setting is of a pale, spring scenario in a small town in the state of MISSISIPPI. Upon the opening fade in, the titles appear on-screen over the early morning setting over an open railroad track. Walking along with his hands in his pockets is VINNIE CARPONZO. Vinnie finally stops walking to take a quick breather and ponder a few thoughts. He looks behind him, and sees the long stretch of railroad that is now behind him.

VINNIE (V.O)

I don't know why I came back here. Actually, let

me re-phrase that. There are two reasons why I

came back here. I just don't know which of the

two is more important. One reason is that there

is someone here that I love, and I came back to

tell her that. The other reason is that somebody

here wants me dead and I need to find out why.

CUT TO:

2. INT. - CONVENIENCE STORE - DAY

Vinnie enters a nearby convenience store along the tracks and walks in. The place is empty with the exception of a young man behind the counter who immediately recognizes Vinnie.

LOUEY

Vinnie Carponzo... I can’t believe it! What has

it been, a year?

VINNIE

Yeah, it's been a year.

LOUEY

Where the hell have you been man?

VINNIE

Where ever, and I wouldn't be back here if it

weren't for some unfinished business. Do you know

where Siloen Daily is?

LOUEY

Siloen? Man, he comes in here all the time. But

not yet today. Why what's up?

VINNIE

Old business. Old promises. I need to find him.

LOUEY

Are you planning to stop in and say hello to your

girl?

VINNIE

(a loss for words)

She still around?

LOUEY

She's right where you left her.

CUT TO:

3. INT. - APARTMENT BUILDING - DAY

Vinnie's finger scrolls down the list of names next to the intercom and finally stops when he reaches the name "Carponzo". He presses the button but there is no answer. Vinnie sits down on the floor along the wall, underneath the intercom and stares at the glass door noticing his reflection. He begins to talk to himself.

VINNIE

Hi.

The reflection is faint but he can still make it out, he proceeds to present himself.

VINNIE

I'm Vinnie Carponzo, pleased to meet you! And you

are? Genesis LeClerc? Well that is the most beaut-

iful name I have ever heard in my life. Oh, I just

want to... start over.

Vinnie buries his head in his face. He doesn't cry, he holds it back but he lets thoughts and memories of her race through his head while he continues to look at his reflection. Now he begins to practice.

VINNIE

Genesis, I'm sorry. Well, sorry doesn't really cut

it. Sorry doesn't take away the pain. Oh God, how

do I put this into words? All I ever thought about

in the past year was you, and how it could've been.

I guess I just want to tell you that I'm ready to

forget about it, all of it. I wish I could change

the past. But I can't but I want to make things

better. I would give anything for one last chance

to take you away.

GENESIS

(Over the Intercom)

Do you really mean that?

Vinnie is slightly startled, but only slightly. He looks up at the intercom speaker and smiles.

CUT TO:

4. INT. - APARTMENT FRONT DOOR - DAY

The door opens, revealing Vinnie, who smiles at her. Genesis approaches him, with tears in her eyes and then slaps him.

GENESIS

You came back for me?

Genesis throws herself into his arms. Vinnie holds her for a brief moment and then after they break, Genesis shows him in.

GENESIS

Where have you been in the past year? Do you know

what it’s been like for me? NO! Wait! Hold your

thought. I’m going to the bathroom, I’ll be right

back. Put on a pot of coffee.

Vinnie slowly walks into the kitchen and begins searching for the coffee tin. He stops once he sees a mirror in the kitchen. In a trance, he gazes into it.

CROSSFADE TO:

The following series of scenes take place approximately one year earlier then what just happened.

5. INT. - DR. SHARP'S ROADHOUSE - NIGHT

The lights are dim and people all around are sitting and enjoying their meals with little to no ruckus going on in the background. Vinnie Carponzo enters the restaurant and approaches the front counter.

GRACE

Hey Vinnie, How are ya?

VINNIE

I'm still alive.

GRACE

Will your table be for smoking or non-smoking?

VINNIE

That depends on Siloen. I'll be joining him.

GRACE

No problem, he's in the far booth at the back.

VINNIE

Thanks.

Vinnie ever so slowly takes his time as he makes his way through the restaurant. He approaches SILOEN DAILEY's table and at first he doesn't sit. Siloen lights up a cigarette; beside him on the same side of the booth is JENESIS LECLERC, an attractive young girl.

SILOEN

Vinnie!

VINNIE

How ya doin'? How's the leg?

SILOEN

Oh, it's getting better. Have a seat.

Vinnie sits in the booth across from Siloen and Genesis. Siloen hands Vinnie a menu.

SILOEN

Tabs on me, just keep it under 10 bucks.

VINNIE

No thanks, I already ate.

SILOEN

Well then have a beer or something.

VINNIE

No really, I'm fine.

SILOEN

Geez Vinnie, where've you been all week? I haven't

seen you at all!

VINNIE

I was at my mother's place.

SILOEN

Ha! Your mother's place? What for?

VINNIE

I had some thinking to do. Her place is out the

woods by the lake and it's nice now that winter's

ending. The sunlight just glistens off the skin

of the lake.

SILOEN

(chuckling)

Jesus Vinnie, what did being away for a week turn

you into a poet? Ha!

VINNIE

It's just a nice place to think.

SILOEN

Did you find Jesus while you were out there?

VINNIE

Sorry?

SILOEN

Isn't it out in the peaceful woods where people

find Jesus?

Vinnie is silent on account of the comment. After a small pause, Siloen starts to laugh. The conversation is halted when the waitress comes to the table.

GRACE

Did you want anything Vinnie?

SILOEN

Yes. He'll have a draft.

VINNIE

No, really, I'm fine.

SILOEN

A nice cold one.

VINNIE

Siloen, I... (to Grace) I'll just have a glass of

water.

Vinnie turns his head to Siloen and notices that he's smiling.

VINNIE

What?

SILOEN

Water...

GRACE

Ok, I'll be right back.

Grace leaves. Siloen continues to chuckle.

VINNIE

What if I turned the water to wine?

SILOEN

You'd need the power of God to do that.

VINNIE

No, I'd just tell the waitress.

They both laugh over the little joke.

SILOEN

Oh it's good to see you again Vinnie. You heading

over to the hotel tonight?

VINNIE

I suppose.

SILOEN

Aramond wants to see me, so I could give you a ride.

VINNIE

I think Aramond would prefer to see less of me.

SILOEN

What are kidding, Vinnie? I'd be surprised if he

were to remember your name. You're not that important.

VINNIE

It's nice to be loved.

Out of the corner of Siloen's eye, he spots GRAY HOUSER. Houser signals Siloen to come talk to him.

SILOEN

Will you excuse me a moment.

Siloen gets up and leaves Genesis and Vinnie alone. They sit in silence, until the trance is broken by the arrival of the waitress with Vinnie's water. She places it on the table in front of him.

VINNIE

Thanks.

Vinnie sips it slowly. To break the ice, Vinnie strikes up conversation.

VINNIE

Haven't seen you around.

GENESIS

You've been away for a week.

VINNIE

How old are you? May I ask?

GENESIS

You'd like my age before my name?

VINNIE

Excuse me, what's your name?

GENESIS

My name is Genesis LeClerc and I am 17 years old.

VINNIE

Seventeen, eh?

GENESIS

(getting angry)

Why? If you have something to say just say it.

VINNIE

I have nothing to say.

GENESIS

But you stereotype me.

VINNIE

Listen Genesis, I think we've gotten off to a bad

start, let's try again. Name's Vinnie Carponzo.

GENESIS

Genesis LeClerc.

Vinnie smiles. He turns his head to see what Siloen is up to. He eyes Siloen laughing with Gray and then pointing towards Genesis. A moment later, Siloen returns to the table with Gray.

GRAY

Hey Vinnie.

VINNIE

How're ya doin' Gray?

SILOEN

Jen, it's time to go.

Without saying a word, Genesis rises from her chair and gets her coat.

SILOEN

I'll meet you at the door.

Siloen heads to the washroom.

GRAY

How was your retreat? I heard you went to go find

Jesus or something.

VINNIE

Did Siloen say that?

GRAY

Yah. So are you heading to the hotel?

VINNIE

In a bit, yeah.

GRAY

Cool.

VINNIE

Excuse me.

Vinnie grabs his coat and heads to the washroom.

CUT TO:

6. INT. - WASHROOM - NIGHT

Upon entering he looks at Siloen through the mirror while he's checking his hair. Vinnie darkens the door way and wastes no time in confronting Siloen.

VINNIE

Seventeen years old?

SILOEN

They come pretty young eh?

VINNIE

Siloen, there are some things that you just don't

do.

SILOEN

Did Jesus tell you this? What are you anyway?

Twenty Three? Twenty Four?

VINNIE

Twenty Four.

SILOEN

So, you think you're any better?

VINNIE

I don't know how to answer that.

SILOEN

Then don't.

Siloen pats Vinnie on the shoulder and then exits the bathroom.

VINNIE

See you tomorrow.

Vinnie stands silent. At first he looks down at the floor but then raises his head and takes a deep breath. He turns and looks at himself in the mirror for several seconds and then sighs.

CUT TO:

7. EXT. - ROADHOUSE PARKING LOT - NIGHT

Vinnie leans up against the side of the building and gazes into the parking lot and as he sees Genesis get into the car with Gray. He sighs as the car pulls off towards the hotel.

CUT TO:

8. INT. - CASA BONNA VISTA HOTEL - NIGHT

The first thing we see in the lobby of the hotel is a campaign poster for DARREN NEIGHTENDACK, who is currently in the stir of the of the upcoming governor election (and the odds on favored). As the camera pans to the left, Siloen enters as immediately greeted by RUFUS HOWSER.

RUFUS

Siloen, good to see ya?

SILOEN

Hey Rufus. Big man upstairs?

RUFUS

Neightendack is with him. I don't think he'll

be too long.

SILOEN

Ah, it's just like him to keep a man waiting. How's

your night been so far?

RUFUS

Oh you know how it is nothing changes. We did have

a dispute earlier. A couple of niggers came in here

and started causin' trouble?

SILOEN

Rufus, to you, asking to use the phone would mean

trouble.

RUFUS

I tell ya, their startin' to drown us. We seriously

ought to have a big sign on the front door saying:

"NO NIGGERS ALOUD."

SILOEN

Oh Rufus, please I'm not in the mood to here your

segregation bull shit tonight.

RUFUS

I mean it, I'll talk to Aramond tomorrow...

SILOEN

You do that! Just leave me out of it.

Siloen walks away from Rufus and heads towards the elevator. He presses up on the panel and enters.

CUT TO:

9. INT. - ARAMOND'S OFFICE - NIGHT

Sitting in a tight, luxurious office is HOWARD ARAMOND with a cigar in his mouth. He sits at his desk opposite to Darren Nightendack who is seated in one of the two chairs in front of Aramond's desk.

ARAMOND

You've got to ask yourself what you're goal is. Is

it your own gain or the good of the people? What is

it? The people, of course. What do they know? What

does anyone know? They know what we tell them to know

and that's how it works. That's why I'm up here and

their down there.

NIGHTENDACK

Just so long as my name isn't attached to any of this.

ARAMOND

Darren, Darren, Darren. You're not chickening out are

you?

NIGHTENDACK

No, I'm not chickening out.

ARAMOND

Then what is your problem, there's nothing to worry

about. With your savvy and my know-how, your going to

be the next governor of this state, don't forget that.

It's the people that need to be reminded.

A knock on the door interrupts their conversation. The door opens revealing Siloen.

SILOEN

Mr. Aramond.

ARAMOND

Just a moment, Siloen. I'll be with you in a moment.

Siloen waits outside. Aramond turns back to Nightendack and places his hands of his shoulders.

ARAMOND

Just remember; The good of the people. We don't need

a nigger running things around here.

Nightendack nods, then turns and leaves.

CUT TO:

10. EXT. - CITY HALL - DAY

We are introduced to a second campaign poster for Jerith Coggswood. He is set to deliver an important speech this morning concerning his social issues. A group of KKK activists, a number of approximately seven, have stationed in front of the hall in protest against his campaign. Another group of people stand in horror watching their protest. In lead is none other than Rufus Howser, speaking into the microphone.

RUFUS

What has become of our state now? Who here believes

that this man should be considered strong enough to

be in office? What has become of our nation? Power

has been taken out of our hands and it's high time

that we got it back. White power!

The six others behind him raise their fists in the air and shout in unison.

ALL

White power!

Among the crowd is Vinnie Carponzo who is looking on at Rufus. Siloen comes up behind him.

SILOEN

Hey Vinnie, sorry I ditched you last night.

VINNIE

Don't worry about it! I just went home. I was tired.

SILOEN

Vinnie, you know that if you ever need a room at the

hotel, I'm here. There's always free breakfast in the

morning and all you can eat buffets. All the best for

a friend of mine.

VINNIE

What do you want?

SILOEN

Want?

VINNIE

Yah, I know you want something.

Siloen half changes the subject.

SILOEN

Do you want to go get a soda er something, this party

is getting dull.

VINNIE

Party? This is down right satanic. Who does this guy

think he is?

SILOEN

Vinnie, your best bet is to stay away and not ask.

Let's get some ice cream.

Siloen leads out and Vinnie follows him. Rufus, speaking in the background finishes his speech.

RUFUS

The future should begin now. Our lives should not be

taken over. We must fight now. White power!

ALL

White power!

CUT TO:

11. INT. - ICE CREAM SHOP - DAY

Almost as it were slightly run down, the Malt Shop is styled with a fifties look. Vinnie and Siloen are sitting on to stools, facing one another. Vinnie has a small butterscotch sundae while Siloen is chowing down on a banana split.

VINNIE

Siloen, have you ever met this guy Coggswood.

SILOEN

Yep.

VINNIE

What do you have against him?

SILOEN

Me, personally? Nothing. It's business. With Aramond's

guy in office, things don't get as hairy...

VINNIE

Aramond's guy? You mean Nightendack?

SILOEN

It's business.

VINNIE

But if it weren't business, you'd go with Coggswood.

SILOEN

Let me put this way. I'll tell you about this guy

Jerith Coggswood. You could walk right up to him, not

say a word and slap him in the face...

Siloen, imitating Jerith Coggswood, slaps Vinnie in the face lightly.

SILOEN

...and he'd say, "Vinnie? What'd you do that for?"

Then you could go on, "Dunno, felt like it."

Siloen slaps Vinnie in the face again.

SILOEN

This guy wouldn't even raise his voice he'd just say,

"Vinnie, that's irritating. Could you please stop?"

VINNIE

What are you getting at?

SILOEN

Who would be the better man in office? One who is an

associate of a protected felon or one who is for the

people, one who Jesus would vote for?

Vinnie takes the point and takes a mouthful of his ice cream.

SILOEN

Ah, but who wins in the end? The one with the power.

VINNIE

That's the way it's always been.

SILOEN

Do you the know the bank down at the end of Clemmons?

VINNIE

Where's that?

SILOEN

Right by the outskirts? By the train tracks?

VINNIE

Oh yeah that's the one right next to the police

station.

SILOEN

Extra guard, I guess. Any-hoo, the entire Neight-

endack campaign fund is sitting around in that

bank.

VINNIE

What do you mean? How much.

SILOEN

Of course, Aramond pulled a few strings. He had a

New account created under the name of "Gregory

Redfield" and balanced it out so that all his

expenses are tax deductible.

VINNIE

So, he's rich. He can do that, what's so big.

SILOEN

He put the claim on everything under his name. Since

this guy Redfield doesn't exist, he can't be found.

Everything from pay checks to poster purchases to

air-time are all going to go in one big circle.

VINNIE

So this thing is a fraud. He's cheating money out

of hardworking people and his guy'll still get into

office?

SILOEN

It's blood money Vinnie.

VINNIE

How much?

SILOEN

Half a mil.

Vinnie spits out the serving of ice cream on account of the shock.

VINNIE

Half a million dollars?

SILOEN

That's what he said.

VINNIE

Where does five-hundred grand come from?

SILOEN

Insurance on Redfield. Tax-cheating, I dunno.

VINNIE

But if that money disappears he's toast. Right?

SILOEN

What do you mean?

VINNIE

I mean Nightendack won't get into office, he'll lose

benefits and then it's gone. The whole 500 thou.

SILOEN

Somebody should rip it off.

VINNIE

With a police station next to it? Yeah right.

SILOEN

It's just a thought, but for once I'd like to see the

good guy win, wouldn't you?

VINNIE

So in essence, we'd be helping the good-guy by becoming

the bad-guys which would make us, in the end, good-guys.

SILOEN

Exactly.

VINNIE

No, no, no. Not exactly. As long as we're ripping off

money, no matter from who, we're the bad-guys.

SILOEN

How so? It's blood money.

VINNIE

We're the bad guys... in Jesus’ eyes.

Siloen is taken aback by the comment.

VINNIE

Aren't we?

SILOEN

Vinnie... you're all right.

Siloen gives Vinnie a nudge on the shoulder.

CROSSFADE TO:

12. INT. - SILOEN'S ROOM - DAY

A couple days have gone by. Siloen is chilling out in his room and is startled by a knock at the door. He opens it and finds Genesis.

SILOEN

Hello, and what do I owe this visit.

Genesis has tears in her eyes. She is as pale as a ghost and her breaths are short and rapid. She has the look as though she is deathly afraid.

SILOEN

What's wrong?

GENESIS

I... I...

SILOEN

Come inside. Come in.

Siloen leads her inside and shuts the door behind her.

SILOEN

What's the matter Gen?

GENESIS

It was Gray. I...

SILOEN

What about Gray?

GENESIS

I'm pregnant.

Genesis’s eyes fill with tears. Siloen is, for a moment in a state of shock but quickly overcomes it. Siloen comforts her.

SILOEN

There, there. It's okay.

Siloen takes Genesis into his arms and holds her as she cries.

SILOEN

I'm not mad. It's okay, you'll be fine. You under-

stand? You'll be fine.

Genesis nods her head "YES" as Siloen continues.

SILOEN

I'll take care of you. There's a clinic downtown.

I'll have you go done there and spend a week or so.

You'll be fine.

Genesis continues to weep in his arms.

SILOEN

Just settle down.

CUT TO:

13. INT. - CORNER BAR - DAY

Gray is sitting at the bar drinking a glass of vodka. In the corner, Siloen enters the bar. He walks over towards Gray and sits beside him.

SILOEN

How ya doin'?

GRAY

Hey.

SILOEN

Care to take a walk with me?

GRAY

Where?

SILOEN

I want to walk and talk.

GRAY

About what?

Siloen pulls a twenty out of his wallet and slaps it on the counter to cover the damages on Gray's order. At that, Siloen turns and heads to the door.

SILOEN

Let's go.

Gray gets out of his chair and heads out the door. He follows Siloen out to the back alleyway.

GRAY

What is this about?

Just at the end of his sentence, three goons grab him and throw him to the ground and begin to beat the living piss out of him. Siloen turns and looks on as he lights up a cigarette. Gray begins to plead for his life but the beating continues. Siloen just stands in the corner and watches.

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:

14. INT. - ARAMOND'S OFFICE - NIGHT

Siloen enters Aramond's office and is immediately greeted by the big man. In the corner is SIMON REI.

ARAMOND

Siloen, Siloen. I'm glad your hear. I'd like you to

meet Simon Rei. He handles all of the transactions

for the Nightendack case.

Simon stands up and shakes Siloen's hand.

SILOEN

Good to meet you.

SIMON

Yah, I've heard a bit about you. I can't stay though,

I've got to be going. You know, people to see.

Simon leaves the office.

SILOEN

Don't tell me that you have a record being kept?

ARAMOND

Under Redfield's name of course.

SILOEN

Well, it's not my business. What can I do you for?

ARAMOND

I need one of your girls.

SILOEN

When, tonight?

ARAMOND

Tonight. I think I earned a little break. Let's say

eight o'clock.

SILOEN

You got it. Right here?

ARAMOND

Yep.

CUT TO:

15. INT. - JENESIS'S ROOM - DAY

Vinnie Carponzo knocks upon Genesis' door. After a few knocks, Genesis finally arrives and looks through the peep-hole and sees that it is Vinnie. She smiles and quickly fixes her hair and then opens the door.

VINNIE

Hello Genesis.

GENESIS

Vinnie. This is a pleasant surprise. Won't you come

in.

VINNIE

I had a request for you.

GENESIS

(getting eager)

And what is that?

VINNIE

I was wondering about a date.

Genesis’s eager smile suddenly turns to a look of insult.

GENESIS

Oh, I see. Well you'll have to go talk to Siloen about

that one. Thanks a lot.

VINNIE

No, no, no. I don't mean that at all. I just want

to... I just want to... go out that’s all.

GENESIS

Really?

VINNIE

Yeah.

GENESIS

When?

VINNIE

Tonight, if that's okay with you.

GENESIS

(thinking for a moment)

Tonight?

VINNIE

Well, if you have other plans then...

GENESIS

No, no, no. That's fine, I'll just get ready.

Genesis heads for the bathroom to get ready. With a half smile, Vinnie waits patiently.

CUT TO:

16. INT. - DR. SHARP'S ROADHOUSE - NIGHT

Vinnie and Genesis are seated in a booth in the furthest corner of the restaurant, across from one another.

VINNIE

So where've you been, I haven't seen you for a bit.

GENESIS

Siloen sent me to Isseri Clinic.

VINNIE

I see.

Genesis begins to weep, but hides her tears.

GENESIS

Vinnie, I'd prefer not to talk about it. I don't

want you to make anymore assumptions about me.

VINNIE

I wasn't making assumptions. I just want to know

what has happened to you.

GENESIS

I'll be fine.

VINNIE

I'm not sure about that. It doesn't seem that way

at all.

GENESIS

Vinnie...

VINNIE

Yes.

GENESIS

Do you ever just want to get away? Away from all of

this? I do. Sometimes it drives me nuts, but I'm

trapped here.

Vinnie's stray away to the corner of the table, feeling his shame.

GENESIS

I wish I could get away from this. As far away from

it as possible.

Ever so gently, Vinnie touches Genesis’s hand and then holds it. Genesis returns his touch with a glance into his eyes and a smile.

CUT TO:

17. INT. - GENESIS'S ROOM - NIGHT

Through the pitch black there is a sound of keys rattling and then the door opens. Genesis enters and Vinnie is not with her. The light is suddenly turned on Genesis is startled.

JENESIS

Siloen!

Siloen is sitting on the sofa with his hand on the light switch. He smiles and walks over to Genesis.

SILOEN

How was your evening?

GENESIS

Listen Siloen.

Siloen wastes no time and slaps her in the face.

SILOEN

Do you have any idea who that was? That was my boss.

GENESIS

I'm sorry Siloen, I just.

He slaps her again.

SILOEN

After all I've done for you, I get this.

Siloen throws her onto the couch and takes off his belt.

SILOEN

Genesis, there's one thing you have to learn. That

is to show me the proper fucking respect.

Siloen straps her across the back with her belt. Genesis seizes up in pain while Siloen begins to repeatedly whip her with his belt.

CUT TO:

18. EXT. - MALL PLAZA - DAY

Vinnie is chilling out sitting on a bench drinking a soda. He is alone and letting his mind trail off. From behind him approaches Siloen.

SILOEN

Hey Vinnie, what's up?

VINNIE

Good morning.

SILOEN

Man have I got a treat for you.

Vinnie shows no reaction to his statement.

SILOEN

What's wrong?

VINNIE

I'm just thinking.

SILOEN

Oh yeah, what about?

VINNIE

Well...

SILOEN

Come on, spit it out.

VINNIE

I was thinking about going clean.

SILOEN

Clean? Vinnie, take a shower if you wanna be clean!

You get your head filled up with what people like

to call the truth and before you know it. Nothing

makes sense. Ya know Vinnie if life were easy

we'd all be dead by now.

Vinnie takes in the advice but does not react.

SILOEN

Come with me, there's a payphone inside.

CUT TO:

19. INT. - MALL LOBBY - DAY

Vinnie is standing in the corner about ten feet away from Siloen. Siloen is on the payphone leaning up against it.

SILOEN

Yeah it's all good. Are you set to go? Good then

where should we meet? Uhh, somewhere with ice

cream, let's see...

VINNIE

Why don't we just meet here?

SILOEN

Here's good. Twenty minutes ok? What do you mean

where's here? We're at the mall! We'll be in the

Food Court, I'm hungry.

Vinnie and Siloen are now stationed at a table, Siloen is munching on french fries and Vinnie is having nothing.

VINNIE

Who exactly are we waiting for?

SILOEN

You remember the half mil we were talking about?

VINNIE

Yeah.

SILOEN

It be a nice half mil to have wouldn't it? Especially

since you're going clean and all.

VINNIE

You're planning to rip off a half million dollars

from your boss? Just who is going to help you with

this.

At that moment, in strolls Simon Rei. He greets Siloen and haves himself a seat at the table.

SILOEN

None other than Mr. Nightendack's personal accountant.

SIMON

Please to meet you Vinnie.

VINNIE

Siloen, I don't want any part of this.

SILOEN

Here me out first.

VINNIE

Siloen, I'm not going to rob a bank.

SILOEN

Simon hear has all the read-outs and bank numbers.

I need you to be there with me on the floor ground.

We'll be in and out in three minutes.

VINNIE

Three minutes?

SILOEN

Three minutes.

VINNIE

May I remind you that the local police station is

a football field away.

SILOEN

Vinnie, you worry too much.

VINNIE

Yah, I worry about cops when I'm robbing a bank. I

know I'm funny like that but I just can't help

myself.

SILOEN

Let me lay it on the line for you.

Siloen takes a few French fries, straws and napkins to map out an overhead view of the terrain.

SILOEN

Alright listen up, here's the bank and the police

station. Over this way is a set of train tracks

enclosing the bank from the city's limits. Across

these tracks is nothing but God's country, trees,

rocks, etc. Basically the whole nature walk, find

Jesus thing.

Vinnie rolls his eyes.

SILOEN

Both the bank and the police station are within the

closed off space. So basically, the train-tracks are

a wall closing in the city limits.

VINNIE

Right.

SILOEN

Well, next Thursday night a shipment of coal is being

loaded up and traveling west-bound, right by our bank.

And believe me, it's a large shipment.

VINNIE

How large is large?

SILOEN

The train is set to hold 97 cars. The railway crossing

down on Fifth has scheduled a close off for the road

at about 8:37 on Thursday night. Because nothing would

be crossing it for forty minutes.

VINNIE

Forty minutes? That's a long train!

SILOEN

Picture this: nothing can follow you, you get on the

opposite side of the tracks and your scot-free for

forty minutes. Vinnie, we'd have forty minutes on

our hands to get as far away from that bank as

possible and nobody could follow us.

Vinnie is impressed with the plan. Siloen, admiring his genius eats one of his fries.

CUT TO:

20. EXT. - RAILROAD TRACKS - DAY

Vinnie and Siloen are standing on the open railroad tracks. Behind them is the bank and further to their right, within view is the police station.

SILOEN

This is it. We're in and out in three minutes. We

get across the tracks just as the forty minute

train zips by and we're free. What do you think?

Vinnie looks up and sighs. He then speaks.

VINNIE

Nice bridge.

Siloen stops in his tracks. He is frozen with despair as he looks up and sees a roadway bridge, running overtop of the train-tracks.

VINNIE

Was that not in the brochure?

CUT TO:

21. INT. - DARKENED BAR - DAY

Gray is sitting at the bar sipping away. A scenario much similar to the one described earlier. Siloen enters and comes up behind him.

SILOEN

Gray, I need a favor.

GRAY

What the hell do you want?

SILOEN

I need your help...

GRAY

Me? What do you need me for? First you beat me up

and now you want my help?

SILOEN

Oh don't be such a baby. They were just love taps.

GRAY

Love taps?

SILOEN

Look, I know that you and I don't get along so I'm

here to appeal to your wallet.

GRAY

What and how much?

SILOEN

We're pullin' a job. You'll get ten percent of what

we make which will be nine thousand.

GRAY

Nine eh?

SILOEN

We're splittin' it right down the middle. Even shares

for all.

GRAY

What do you need?

SILOEN

A car accident.

GRAY

What?

SILOEN

A diversion, on the bridge next to the bank. Your car

will meet another one stationed on the opposite side

of the bridge. Then report the accident by 9:02. That

will give any stand-by units a chance to be diverted

away before they notice anything. Also the bridge will

be blocked off.

GRAY

Well, I don't like you but for nine thousand...

SILOEN

Seven thousand.

GRAY

No it was nine thousand.

SILOEN

I said seven thousand.

GRAY

No. I distinctively heard you say nine.

SILOEN

It was seven Gray.

GRAY

Was it?

SILOEN

Yep.

GRAY

Okay, seven thousand.

CUT TO:

22. INT. - GENESIS'S ROOM - DAY

Genesis is sitting at the table. She is alone in the apartment and is weeping. After a short period of time she raises her head and reaches for a knife from the kitchen and places it against her left wrist. She prepares to apply pressure and pierce her skin but gives up after a moment. She is then startled by a knock at the door. Vinnie enters.

VINNIE

Hello. Am I interrupting?

GENESIS

No.

Vinnie pulls up a seat by Genesis.

GENESIS

You're going to help Siloen aren't you?

VINNIE

For a 170 thousand dollar cut. It's tempting.

GENESIS

Vinnie, we could go. We could leave right now. You

and I together.

VINNIE

What would I turn to? Genesis I have no other life

that I can turn to. I'm stuck just like you are.

GENESIS

I'm begging you. Don't rob that place.

VINNIE

Genesis, with 170 grand we could be set. Then we

could run away. Together.

GENESIS

But then it's just the same! We wouldn't be running

away from anything because it would be right there

following us, tormenting us. The guilt of hurting

others.

VINNIE

I want to take you away Genesis but...

GENESIS

Then let's go. Right now.

VINNIE

But this is something I need to do.

Vinnie gets up and approaches the door. He leaves Genesis at the table to drown in her tears. She gets up and lies down on the couch.

CUT TO:

23. INT. - SILOEN'S HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT

Vinnie and Siloen are chilling out in Siloen's hotel room. Siloen is smoking a cigarette while Vinnie is sitting in his chair contemplating many thoughts. Siloen is the first to break the silence.

SILOEN

Vinnie, can I ask you a question?

VINNIE

Shoot.

SILOEN

Yesterday you said you were thinking about going

clean. Why?

VINNIE

Why do I want to go clean?

SILOEN

What possessed you to think that?

VINNIE

You want to know as my friend or as my business

partner or as my friend?

SILOEN

What makes us friends Carponzo?

VINNIE

Well, Daily, friends help each other out when they

need a hand. I would think that if you weren't my

friend then you would ask me about a life-changing

decision.

SILOEN

Okay Mr. Carponzo. Tell me, as my partner in

business, why is it that you wish to cease leading

this life?

VINNIE

You see, Mr. Daily, when you've reached a certain

point in your career you feel a need for change.

It's like you've done it already and you're just

getting tired of it. I need a change.

SILOEN

A change in your career, eh?

VINNIE

The job is getting stressful. I just need out.

SILOEN

But you're going to pull this job right?

VINNIE

I don't know.

SILOEN

Vinnie, I need you. I need someone I can trust.

VINNIE

When you can tell someone that you trust them and

are comfortable on a first name basis, it usually

implies that you consider them a friend.

SILOEN

No it doesn't. Trust and friendship are two com-

pletely different things.

VINNIE

How so?

SILOEN

Friends screw friends over all the time. The very

thought of utter dependence that we give our so

called friends is the under-lining boarder of

weakness that we bestow upon ourselves.

VINNIE

It's that dependence that makes us human.

SILOEN

It's that dependence that makes us weak. What is

a friend? "Hey, Vinnie do you want to go shoot

some pool tonight? Vinnie, can I borrow some money?

I promise I'll pay you back! I haven't gotten

around to paying you yet. Sorry not yet. I should

have it really soon. Not yet, but hey, we're still

friends, right?"

VINNIE

Hmmm.

SILOEN

A friend is someone who holds you in a vulnerable

position. Who do you least suspect when something

goes wrong. Of course, your friends. When your house

is robbed, when your car is broken into? It's never

the ones who know where you leave your spare set

of keys. It's never the ones who know what your pin

number is, how much gas is in your car, who you've

dated, where your parents live, or who you love.

Their the ones who the last ones you suspect. But

they're the most likely to screw you over.

VINNIE

That's when you know you love someone though. When

you trust them.

SILOEN

It's a risk...

VINNIE

...and risks are what make us human.

Siloen falls to the back of his chair and takes another puff of his cigarette.

SILOEN

Okay, Vinnie, tell me, as a friend, why do you

want to go clean?

VINNIE

What's the point? You'd laugh.

SILOEN

No, I won't laugh.

VINNIE

It's about Jesus.

Siloen is gets disgruntled and exhales his smoke.

SILOEN

Oh, I knew it. Somehow I just knew that this was

going to be about Jesus.

VINNIE

Let's just forget it.

SILOEN

I promised I wouldn't laugh, and I didn't.

VINNIE

Yeah, but you know what I meant.

SILOEN

Okay, okay, go ahead. What's on your mind?

VINNIE

Once there was a man who walked along the beach

with Jesus at his side. Behind him were foot-

prints. For the most part there were two sets of

footprints running across the beach. The foot-

prints represented the road of his life.

SILOEN

Vinnie, you're starting to get poetic on me.

VINNIE

He noticed that during the more trying parts of

his parts of his life that there was only one set

of footprints visible and asked Jesus, “Why is it

that when I needed you most you had abandoned me?”

And then Jesus responded, “I didn’t abandon you,

Those points in your life that you see only one

Set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.”

SILOEN

So what, are you saying that while your worried

about robbing a bank Jesus is carrying you though

it? When you steal money from those who work for

it and feel a little guilty, Jesus is carrying you

through it?

VINNIE

No, not at all.

SILOEN

(confused)

Then what does what you just said have anything

to with you?

VINNIE

When I look at my life and see all the horrible

things that I’ve done to people. I think that

maybe there’s hope. Maybe there’s something I

can do to fix things. Maybe, just maybe somebody

will help me make the right decision.

SILOEN

This, Vinnie, is why you need a friend.

VINNIE

Maybe, or maybe I need to look back and see one

set of footprints.

CUT TO:

24. EXT. - PARK - DAY

Vinnie is sitting on a deserted bench in the park. For the longest time, he just sits and thinks. Should he leave with Genesis or go with Siloen and be set up for his new life? He ponders many questions.

CROSSFADE TO:

25. INT. - SILOEN'S ROOM - NIGHT

Siloen is sitting on the couch topless smoking a joint. He stares into space, worried about what is to happen, excited and afraid. His facial expression of no emotion remains motionless as Genesis comes up from behind him and gently kisses his cheek trying to make some form of immense. When she sees no reaction Genesis becomes upset and stammers away into the other room.

SILOEN

What are you doing?

Genesis begins to gather up her things.

GENESIS

I'm leaving.

SILOEN

You're leaving? And just where are you going to go?

GENESIS

As far away from you as possible.

SILOEN

Oh, this is the thanks I get after all of done for

you? When I first found you, you were nothing but

a miserable whore working on the side of the road.

GENESIS

And now I'm a miserable whore working for criminals.

SILOEN

You're a respectable whore.

GENESIS

Don't call me a whore.

SILOEN

All, I've asked for is a little respect around here.

You've given me nothing but shit. GET THE HELL OUTTA

HERE NOW!

Genesis charges out of the hotel room. Siloen shrugs it off, sits down and finishes his joint.

CUT TO:

26. INT. - VINNIE'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Genesis’s finger scrolls down the list of names next to the intercom and finds the name "Carponzo". She presses the buzzer. Vinnie opens the door and sees Genesis standing at his doorway with fear in her eyes.

VINNIE

Come right in.

Not before long, Genesis is asleep on Vinnie's bed. She is exhausted and Vinnie let her crash. Vinnie stands in the doorway to his bedroom and just watches her sleep. He leans over to her and kisses her cheek.

VINNIE

(whispering)

I'll take you away Genesis.

CUT TO:

27. INT. - SILOEN'S CAR - NIGHT

Siloen is in the driver's seat. Vinnie is riding shot gun and Simon is in the back. The three of them are dressed in black. Also in the back is Dougy, the driver.

SIMON

Alright, this is late night closing period. Vinnie

what you're going to want to do is keep the front

entrance sealed off. Siloen will take care of the

nice ladies working there and I'll hit the safe.

SILOEN

Okay, the train makes it's pass at 9:11 and so that

gives us twenty minutes from now. You ready Vinnie?

VINNIE

I'm ready.

Simon, Vinnie, and Siloen all exit the car. Siloen turns to Dougy who gets in the driver's seat.

SILOEN

Okay Dougy, you've have an ETA of 9 minutes until

Gray shows up at the bridge.

DOUGY

Alright, I got it.

SILOEN

Now Dougy, don't go smash up my car...

DOUGY

(concerned)

What? Has their been a change of plans?

SILOEN

No. It's a... It's a joke.

DOUGY

Oh.

Dougy is puzzled but then laughs to make Siloen feel better.

SILOEN

Aww, forget it.

Dougy starts the car and drives off. Siloen, Simon, and Vinnie are now left alone, each armed with a pistol.

SILOEN

Okay then, let's split up.

Vinnie heads to the front and Simon heads to the side. Before Siloen moves, his Cell phone rings.

SILOEN

Hello.

GRAY

(on the other end)

Uh, hi Silly Siloen. Listen I had to stop at Wendy's

for a minute so I'm going to be a little late.

SILOEN

What do you mean a little late? How late?

GRAY

About 35 seconds. I hope it doesn't throw off your

sync too much.

SILOEN

Thirty-five seconds is fine.

GRAY

Could I trouble you for 36?

SILOEN

Don't push it Gray. If you want your six thousand

then just make sure you're here.

Siloen hangs up the phone. Dougy is now parked with the radio on, facing the bridge waiting for Gray's arrival.

CUT TO:

28. INT. - BANK - NIGHT

Only two bank tellers are working at the time. Without warning, three men dressed in black with black masks on enter the room with guns.

SILOEN

Alright. Be cool. Don't make a move if you want to

get through this.

The bank tellers are frozen in fear and don't move a muscle.

SILOEN

The account, let's go.

SIMON

Give me a minute.

Simon gets on the computer and works his magic. He pulls out the readout of the Redfield account. Siloen and Vinnie keep the guns on the bank tellers.

SILOEN

Don't move a muscle.

VINNIE

In and out?

SILOEN

In and out.

CUT TO: Dougy

Dougy is sitting in the car, waiting for his moment. He’s passing the time by listening to tunes and eating chips. Finally he puts attempts to start the car but for some reason it’s not working.

CUT TO: Gray

Gray is in his car listening to tunes and singing along while beating his hands against the steering wheel as he approaches the bank.

CUT TO: The Bank

Vinnie is sitting next to one of the bank tellers who is frozen in fear. His gun is exposed but it not pointed at her.

VINNIE

You okay?

The bank teller doesn’t respond but she looks up at him with a face of helplessness and curiosity.

VINNIE

You’ll be all right. We’ll be done here soon

Enough and then you can go home. Okay?

The bank teller nods “YES” to Vinnie. At that moment, Siloen's cell phone rings. Agitated, he grabs it and answers it.

SILOEN

What?

DOUGY

(on the other end)

Car won't start.

SILOEN

What do you mean the car won't start?

DOUGY

I mean, I'm turnin' the keys and the engine ain't

goin' vrrrrrr vrrrrr.

Dougy is startled by the sudden shock of a knock on his side window. Standing outside is a police officer. He signals Dougy to roll down the window.

DOUGY

Ummm, I gotta go.

Dougy hangs up the phone. Siloen turns to Vinnie.

SILOEN

We have this under control Vinnie. Get out there.

When you push the key in, tap the gas and then

smack the dashboard really hard. Then get your ass

back in here.

VINNIE

Nice car Siloen. Real Nice.

Vinnie exits the bank.

CUT TO: Dougy

The police officer continues to knock on the window. Finally Dougy gives in and rolls it down.

OFFICER

How ya doin'?

DOUGY

Fine, just fine.

OFFICER

Do you realize that you’re parked in a Federal

Parking Zone? You’re going to have to move your

vehicle.

DOUGY

Yeah, I'll move it in one second.

OFFICER

Sir, would you step out of the car please?

Dougy, feeling frustrated steps out of the car and faces the police officer. In the distance, he sees Vinnie Carponzo walking towards the car from the bank.

DOUGY

Uh oh. Gotta think.

Dougy makes a break for it. He runs in the opposite direction of the bank. The police officer screams at him to halt and then chases after him on foot. After the coast is clear, Vinnie arrives on scene.

VINNIE

Okay Dougy, Listen. When you turn...

Dougy is nowhere to be seen.

VINNIE

What the?

Vinnie turns his head to see Gray's car pulling up towards the bridge. Quickly he gets in the car and tries to start it.

CUT TO: Siloen & Simon

Siloen is still standing by the door with his gun pointed at the bank tellers while Simon is at the computer crunching in numbers. Boldly, one of the bank tellers reaches underneath the desk and presses the silent alarm.

SIMON

I found it.

SILOEN

Just hurry it up. What's taking Vinnie so long?

CUT TO: Vinnie & Gray

Vinnie finally gets the car started and races it up towards the bridge as Gray's car draws ever so closer.

VINNIE

Come on. Let's go.

Suddenly the car stalls.

VINNIE

What the hell?

Gray, grobbling up the last of his burger, is suddenly confused when his car stops moving. He's out of gas.

GRAY

Bull shit I'm out of gas!

Vinnie begins to struggle with the ignition as the two cars, going about 3 km/h approach one another. Vinnie hits the gas pedal but it does nothing. Finally the two cars hit, with a force of not even one Newton without even denting the bumpers.

VINNIE

Shit.

GRAY

Shit.

CUT TO: Siloen & Simon

SIMON

Shit!

While crunching in the numbers, Simon failed somewhere down the lign because the alarm has just gone off.

SILOEN

Shit!

The safe opens up and to the delighted eyes of Siloen and Simon is the half million in cash.

SIMON

We've got to load this up now!

SILOEN

The train's not going to be here for five more

minutes. We've got time, but the cops'll be here

in less then two. Let's hope they reported the

accident, that'll buy us a little time.

CUT TO: Vinnie & Gray

Vinnie and Gray get out the cars that are still in perfect condition parked about a millimeter away from the other.

GRAY

Hear that Vinnie? Sounds like an alarm!

VINNIE

They'll load up the money. The train isn't coming

for another five min---

Vinnie's sentence is interrupted by the choo-choo sound of a train.

VINNIE

It's early. The train is early. GET DOWN THERE!

I'll park a barricade.

Siloen and Simon quickly run out of the bank with the bags of money but are interrupted by three cops with guns pointed at them. Siloen opens fire on them and a small shoot out begins.

CUT TO: Siloen & Simon

Siloen hears the train from inside the bank.

SILOEN

It's early! Yes!! It's early. Keep crunching those

Numbers!

CUT TO: Vinnie & Gray

VINNIE

Shit!! It's early!

Vinnie sets up the small barricade and then heads down towards the tracks. Meanwhile, Siloen and Gray have already gotten across. Simon heads off to the side. Bullets continue to zoom in their direction. Vinnie bursts onto scene and runs as fast as he came for the tracks as the train comes closer and closer.

POLICE

Freeze, you’re under arrest!

Siloen and Gray are already safe and Vinnie is running as fast as his feet can carry him. But Vinnie trips on a rock and falls to the ground as everything goes into slow motion.

SILOEN

Get up Vinnie!

POLICE

Stop where you are!!

Vinnie lays on the ground, completely out of breath. He hears the sound of the approaching cops and then his mind trails off.

CROSSFADE TO:

29. INT. - KITCHEN - DAY

Vinnie looks at himself in the mirror inside his kitchen. He glances to his left and sees that the coffee has finished brewing. Genesis returns.

GENESIS

I always wondered when you would come back into my

life. But I was never sure as to what exactly I

would say. I didn't know whether I wanted to slap

you or kiss you so I did both. I hope you don't

mind.

VINNIE

Yeah, it's no big deal.

GENESIS

Was the money so important?

VINNIE

I've had a year to myself, Genesis. Plenty of time

to think, to dwell on thoughts. You're what's

important in my life.

GENESIS

Vinnie...

VINNIE

Genesis, do you know where Siloen is?

GENESIS

Not exactly. Why?

VINNIE

I think there's more than meets the eye as to what

happened that night.

GENESIS

Like what?

VINNIE

That's what I need to find out. I need a place to

stay. You don't mind do you?

GENESIS

It's your apartment.

VINNIE

Thanks.

GENESIS

Vinnie. There's so much I wanted to say to you, and

I never did get to tell you. I was so worried that

I'd never see you again.

VINNIE

Hey, I'm a survivor. Siloen's get help me out.

GENESIS

Siloen's going to help you?

VINNIE

Yep. I've got to go now. I'll be back in a few hours

and we'll talk then.

Vinnie heads to the door. Genesis stops him before he leaves.

GENESIS

Vinnie?

VINNIE

What is it?

GENESIS

When are you going to take me away?

VINNIE

The minute I straighten this mess out.

CUT TO:

30. INT. - COFFEE SHOP - DAY

The coffee shop is fairly empty. Only a few customers in pairs of twos are sitting at their tables and the commotion level is minimal. Sitting at a table alone sipping a coffee is Siloen Daley. Vinnie enters and pulls a chair right up to Siloen's table.

VINNIE

Somebody tried to kill me.

SILOEN

(shocked)

VINNIE!

VINNIE

It was someone from Aramond's outfit. What's going

on there's something you obviously didn't tell me.

SILOEN

What are you doing here? I thought you were gone

for good.

VINNIE

I mean it Siloen, who wants me dead and why?

SILOEN

You're supposed to be dead.

VINNIE

Then kill me.

SILOEN

I can't kill you.

VINNIE

You called me before.

SILOEN

Yeah, but that was under the condition that you'd

never show your face in this town again.

VINNIE

Someone tried to kill me before I came back.

SILOEN

My advice Vinnie, leave town. Your being here puts

you and me at risk.

VINNIE

I want to know what the hell happened.

SILOEN

You’re better off not knowing.

VINNIE

Where's Aramond. How does he know I'm alive?

SILOEN

Vinnie. Let's go outside and we'll talk.

VINNIE

Okay.

Vinnie and Siloen get out of their chairs and head to the door. They make their way to the back alley, behind the coffee shop.

VINNIE

Alright Siloen, start talking!

Siloen pulls out his gun and fires it at Vinnie.

VINNIE

Jesus!

Vinnie jumps out of the way behind a dumpster and some crates. Siloen fires a few more shots. Vinnie gets up while Siloen reloads his gun and makes a run for it. As Vinnie scatters off Siloen fires two more shots which both miss.

SILOEN

Shit.

CUT TO:

32. INT. - ARAMOND'S OFFICE - DAY

Aramond is sitting down at his desk talking on the phone as Siloen enters the room. Siloen very slowly and quietly takes a seat in the chair in front of Aramond's desk.

ARAMOND

(on the phone)

Are you kidding me? You’re talking to the most

powerful man in this entire state. Governor Night-

endack works for me... I'll make it legal. Listen

I know this sounds bad but can I call you back?

Thanks, bye.

Aramond now turns to Siloen with a half smile. Siloen, however, has the grim look of failure in his eyes.

ARAMOND

What happened?

SILOEN

Vinnie's back. He's alive.

ARAMOND

Yes, this I know. What I don't know is why he is

alive? You let him go didn't you?

SILOEN

I thought that if you were to leave the scene he

wouldn't make is and be arrested.

ARAMOND

Arrested! Siloen, that doesn't make things any

better! That would encourage an investigation into

the matter wouldn't it?

SILOEN

Forgive me.

ARAMOND

This city is my oyster. A simple bank robbery with

three dead robbers was what I wanted. And you messed

it all up.

SILOEN

I'm sorry.

ARAMOND

Sorry doesn't cut it, Siloen. Jerith Coggswood is

in jail. Do you have any idea what would happen

if this figured out? The Greg Redfield account was

fraud that could only be deciphered through a party

that knew what exactly they were going after. A

man who knew the exact details of it's origin. A

man who knew that the account was not created by

an associate of Jerith Coggswood.

SILOEN

This should be Rufus's problem!

ARAMOND

It's my problem now! And yours too.

CROSSFADE TO:

33. INT. - ARAMOND'S OFFICE - NIGHT

In the office standing in front of Aramond's desk are Darren Nightendack and Rufus Howser. Aramond sits now in his office, this time with a look of interest on his face as he listens to the words of Rufus.

RUFUS

Is it not plain to see that Jerith Coggswood is on

the verge of winning the public trust? I've been

born and raised here on white pride has been one

of many things that I've believed in. People are

starting to loose sight in that.

NIGHTENDACK

Is this really about cultural difference?

RUFUS

Let me put it this way. This place is the grounds

that me and all of my brothers have live our whole

lives. This is not going to remain the same if some

damn nigger is in office.

ARAMOND

People aren't going to be quick to see your point.

RUFUS

That's why Coggswood needs to be turned into some-

thing he isn't.

NIGHTENDACK

You mean frame him?

RUFUS

Just half an hour ago, some niggers came in here

and started calling my brothers racist and said

that Coggswood has the wave of the future.

NIGHTENDACK

He had no right to be here.

RUFUS

Damn right. I'm going to head downstairs.

Rufus leaves the office. Aramond and Nightendack are now alone. Aramond looks up to him.

ARAMOND

Are you prepared to go all the way with this?

NIGHTENDACK

What do I have to do anyway?

ARAMOND

You've got to ask yourself what you're goal is. Is

it your own gain or the good of the people? What is

it? The people, of course. What do they know? What

does anyone know? They know what we tell them to know

and that's how it works. That's why I'm up here and

their down there.

NIGHTENDACK

Just so long as my name isn't attached to any of this.

ARAMOND

Darren, Darren, Darren. You're not chickening out are

you?

NIGHTENDACK

No, I'm not chickening out.

ARAMOND

Then what is your problem, there's nothing to worry

about. With your savvy and my know-how, you’re going

to be the next governor of this state, don't forget

that. It's the people that need to be reminded.

A knock on the door interrupts their conversation. The door opens revealing Siloen.

SILOEN

Mr. Aramond.

ARAMOND

Just a moment, Siloen. I'll be with you in a moment.

Siloen waits outside. Aramond turns back to Nightendack and places his hands of his shoulders.

ARAMOND

Just remember: The good of the people. We don't

Need a nigger running things around here.

Nightendack nods, then turns and leaves.

CUT TO:

34. EXT. - BANK - NIGHT

Siloen and Gray are on the opposite side of the tracks. Vinnie is on the ground, on his stomach. The cops are behind chasing after him and drawing nearer and nearer. Vinnie gathers up an ounce of strength and

gets up and runs as fast as he can. The train is drawing closer. The train has come into view and Vinnie jumps as far as can just skinning the side of the train as he makes it the other side. He turns his head to his right to find Siloen. Siloen is about thirty feet away and has his gun in his hand. Vigorously, he shoots Gray in the head.

VINNIE

What the hell?

Vinnie runs away but Siloen notices him. Siloen chases after him until finally they confront.

VINNIE

What happened? You killed Gray!

SILOEN

You made it.

VINNIE

Gray's dead.

SILOEN

You shouldn't have made it Vinnie.

VINNIE

What's going on?

SILOEN

I can't kill you. Not you. Not Vinnie Carponzo.

VINNIE

Siloen...

SILOEN

Vinnie. You have to run away. Run away and don't

ever return. I'll see to it that they know that

you're dead but if they ever find out then they'll

hunt you down.

VINNIE

What's going on?

SILOEN

In a minute. For now we've got to get out of here.

CUT TO:

35. EXT. - WOODS - NIGHT

Siloen and Vinnie run into the woods leading into the deserted out- skirts. They run as fast as they can. Finally, they come to a stop.

SILOEN

Do you hear that Vinnie?

VINNIE

Hear what?

SILOEN

Sh. It's coming from over here.

VINNIE

Is it the police?

SILOEN

I don't know.

Siloen leans over and pulls back the branches blocking his view. Once the view is clear he sees a large burning cross approximately twelve feet high. Surrounding it are several men dressed in white cloaks.

SILOEN

Stay low Vinnie.

Rufus's face is covered by a white hood and he is holding a large burning torch.

RUFUS

We call this session of pray, before the eyes of

God and before all of us. This night is to be

marked as a special one for all of us.

Vinnie leans over so he can see too. Siloen and Vinnie both look on.

VINNIE

We'd better get out of here.

SILOEN

You'd better get out of here. Vinnie, promise me

that you'll never come back. Go, now!

Vinnie, not understanding what is happening, takes Siloen's advice and runs as fast as he can through the dark woods.

CROSSFADE TO:

36. INT. - ARAMOND'S OFFICE - DAY

It is now the present and the same scenario in which Siloen and Aramond were speaking earlier. Siloen sits in his chair biting his nails as Aramond speaks.

ARAMOND

You failed me Siloen.

Siloen makes no mark of apology but has a look of fear in his eye.

ARAMOND

Vinnie must be found. He must be silenced forever.

SILOEN

You got it.

Siloen sits up out of his chair and exits the office. After he is gone Aramond picks up the intercom and hits the button.

CUT TO:

37. INT. - SILOEN'S HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT

Siloen is sitting alone by himself, pondering thoughts about what is to become of Vinnie. He lies, sprawled out on the bed with a joint in hand. His moment of relaxation is interrupted by a knock upon his door. Siloen picks on his gun and heads to the door. Slowly he opens it for RUFUS HOWSER.

RUFUS

What's the matter with you?!

SILOEN
(placing the gun on the table)

Oh, nothing, nothing.

RUFUS

You've really screwed things up Siloen. You've screwed

up big time!

Siloen parks himself back down on the chair.

SILOEN

Looks like we've both got problems.

Rufus sits on the edge of the bed not far from Siloen. Siloen hands him the joint on Rufus inhales a puff.

SILOEN

My women's run away from me, my shit's just gone

hay-wire. I don't even know anymore. I almost want

to go clean.

RUFUS

This is my head on the line.

SILOEN

Yeah, your fucking KKK bullshit...

RUFUS

Bullshit?!

SILOEN

This is starting to get on my-

RUFUS

Bullshit?! Why don't we talk about bullshit for a

minute?

SILOEN

Sure go ahead.

RUFUS

A worthless pimp that isn't worth a dime to anyone,

strutting his stuff around like he owns this town.

An insignificant wreck of a human being with his

head so far up Aramond's ass that he can't even see

the direction his life is heading in.

SILOEN

Oh really.

RUFUS

A man with no cause with fighting for. When I think

of all the work I've done for God, for my brothers,

for my family, and for myself.

SILOEN
(mocking Rufus)

Kill all the niggers! Burn them! Sacrifice them to

God!

RUFUS

Work that betters our society. Work for our holy father

when nobody listens to him.

SILOEN

Have you heard the poem of Footprints?

RUFUS

Yes. A man walks along the beach, the beach repre-

senting his life. Along the way, he sees two sets

of foot print, one his own and the other that of

Jesus. He notices that during the more trying parts

of his life he sees only one set of footprints and

asks the lord, "why is it that during my time of

need that there is only my set of footprints? Why

would you abandon me when I need you most?" and

the lord replies, "During those times of grief,

it was then that I carried you..."

SILOEN

Vinnie Carponzo told me that story. It made me think.

RUFUS

It made you think about your life and where it's

headed.

SILOEN
(getting furious)

There is nothing wrong with my life!

RUFUS

A seventeen year old girl comes off the street. Oh,

that looks like good money!

SILOEN

Look! A black man is crossing the street! Let's

burn him and his fucking family.

RUFUS

Pushers like you make me want to puke!

SILOEN

I love Genesis!

RUFUS

What's love to you? You're a disgusting pimp.

SILOEN

(fighting through tears and anger)

What's love to you!? Genocide? Sacrificing niggers

to God? What's love to you?

RUFUS

You badly need Jesus...

SILOEN

Fuck Jesus!!

Rufus drops every single thought racing through his head. He stares blankly at Siloen on account of what was just said.

RUFUS

What did you say?!

SILOEN

What have I ever been but the shit on his boot.

RUFUS

You take that back and thank the lord you have air

in your lungs!!

SILOEN

Along my beach there's been only one set of foot-

steps! MINE!

RUFUS

(absolutely irate)

You take back what you said

SILOEN

Fuck you! Fuck God! Fuck Genesis for not appreciating

what I've done for her. Fuck--

RUFUS

Fuck everyone but you, is that it?

Siloen can barely talk because he's so worked up. He tries to choke out words but nothing comes over Rufus' voice.

RUFUS

God fucked you over did he? God made you a pimp?

God made you lick the shit off Aramond's boot?

You are white my friend! You are one of God's

children!

Siloen can barely breathe. He finally catches his breath and turns to Rufus.

SILOEN

You don't know God. What the fuck do you know but

murder and genocide? One day when you realize that

there are things you just don't do, God is going

to strike you down. Get out of here...

RUFUS

When we're all worm food. I'm going to look down at

your rotting soul from heaven and laugh...

Rufus storms out of the room. Once all is silent, Siloen buries his head in the bed, wiping away his tears and speaks to himself or perhaps to someone else who may be listening.

SILOEN

Help me. Help me, please. Just tell me what to do.

CUT TO:

38. INT. - ARAMOND'S OFFICE - NIGHT

Aramond is on the phone with Nightendack. Nightendack is panicking on the other end. Here is a series of shots that cut back and forth between the scenarios during the telephone conversation.

NIGHTENDACK

You still haven't found this guy Carponzo yet?

ARAMOND

Carponzo isn't a worry of ours now.

NIGHTENDACK

What is it?

CUT TO:

39. INT. - DARKENED BAR (1F) - NIGHT

A very intimate shot of Rufus sitting alone at the bar with a glass of vodka. He only sips it slowly as he is drowning in a sea of thoughts. The silence is broken when a short and well-groomed black man walks up to him and sits next to him.

BLACK MAN

You look down my friend.

Rufus is obviously irritated but says nothing. Instead he wallows in his thoughts ignoring the man beside him.

BLACK MAN

If you don’t want to talk that is fine. I just

wanted to pass on the word of Jesus Christ.

The man sets a small card down in front of Rufus’s drink. It’s a picture of Jesus with text written on the back from a church that Rufus is not familiar with. Rufus pays no mind to it. He simple grobbles as if to say “get away” and takes another sip.

BLACK MAN

Peace of Christ be with you my brother.

With no further word, the man gets up off the stool and proceeds outside of the bar. Rufus, not ever looking once in the direction of the man, finally glances down at the card.

CUT TO:

40. INT. - ARAMOND'S OFFICE - NIGHT

Aramond continues his telephone conversation with Nightendack. The conversation continues to become very heated.

ARAMOND

Your job! This is about the common good.

NIGHTENDACK

It's about the common good.

ARAMOND

Howser plays an intricate role in this new

government and so if you're not listening to me

then listen to him. Just hold out. Deny every-

thing to the press.

NIGHTENDACK

Oh, the press. Accusations are killing me. You've

got to get this thing buried and buried fast.

ARAMOND

I'll take care of it.

CUT TO:

41. INT. - DARKENED BAR (1F) - NIGHT

Rufus reads the card but does not pick it up off the table. He simply skims through the lines. Finally it a short fit of anger, he throws a dollar bill on the counter to pay for his drink and then storms out of the bar.

CUT TO:

42. INT. - ARAMOND'S OFFICE - NIGHT

Siloen interrupts the conversation as he enters Aramond's office and waits patiently for him to get off the phone.

NIGHTENDACK

Listen to me. Tomorrow’s the interview. Every local

news broadcast in this state is going to be showing

it live. I will not be made a complete ass of because

of your fuck-ups.

ARAMOND

Don't talk to me that way. Don't you ever talk to

me that way again. Keep your mouth shut, this

conversation is over.

Aramond hangs up the phone and turns to Siloen who has a slightly uncomfortable and nervous atmosphere, which is unusual for him.

ARAMOND

What?!

SILOEN

I want out.

ARAMOND

What?

SILOEN

I want out. I want out for good.

ARAMOND

Is this a desk job in which you can just waltz into

my office and give me your two weeks?

SILOEN

I don't want your money. I no longer want your pro-

tection. I want out.

ARAMOND

The entire state is balancing on my shoulders. This

Carponzo guy is running around with information that

could bring down our government and even the state

of our economy. Now is not the time for you to play

prodigal son to Mama Dailey now is it.

CUT TO:

43. INT. - BACK LOT OUTSIDE BAR - NIGHT

The man is proceeding on his way through the back alley way where there is nobody to be seen. Rufus, lurking in the shadows, follows him and finally catches up to him. Once he does, he grabs the man and throws him into the wall and proceeds to beat him up.

RUFUS

What the fuck do you know about Jesus?

Rufus continues to kick him in the stomach and through vicious punches at him. The man does not fight back. He simply holds his hands up in an attempt to calm Rufus down.

RUFUS

Tell me! Come on, tell me!

Rufus picks up crowbar and whacks him in the back as hard as he can. He continues to do so repeatedly.

RUFUS

You don’t know Jesus! You don’t fucking know

Jesus!

CUT TO:

44. INT. - ARAMOND'S OFFICE - NIGHT

Siloen in heat of tears and anger continues to debate with Aramond about what is to be done.

SILOEN

I've given my whole life for you and your cause. I'm

not asking for my life back, I'm just asking for a

chance to fix it.

ARAMOND

Go! Just get out!

Siloen leaves the room in a gust of relief but yet light tears of sadness and fury still invoke his gesture.

CUT TO:

45. INT. - BACK LOT OUTSIDE BAR - NIGHT

Finally Rufus smashes the crowbar across the man’s head. It begins to bleed profusely and before Rufus can take a breath, the man is dead. Rufus drops the crowbar and steps away from the corpse.

CUT TO:

46. EXT. - CASA BONA VISTA - DAY

Siloen exits the hotel and into the parking lot. He gets into his car and lets out a long sigh of relief. After a moment of clarity he puts the key in the ignition and starts the car. He listens to the song on the radio that comes on for a moment before he pulls out. In front of his car, about fifteen feet away, stands a man in a trench coat, just staring at Siloen. At first Siloen is confused but the man pulls out a machine gun and Siloen reacts

SILOEN

Oh shit.

The machine gun burst into fire, shattering the windshield and spilling Siloen's blood. The calmly walks away leaving Siloen's dead body in the front seat.

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:

47. INT. - VINNIE'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Genesis is sitting on the couch in tears, cuddling a pillow. The front door opens and in steps Vinnie Carponzo. Quietly he takes off his shoes and heads into living room.

VINNIE

You heard?

GENESIS

I just found out.

Vinnie doesn't sit down. He just stands, still in his jacket and listens to Genesis.

GENESIS

All in all I'm glad. Because, I'm free now. I'm

free from him, but I won't lie by saying that he

meant nothing to me.

VINNIE

I understand. He was an okay guy, even though he

tried to kill me.

GENESIS

(starting to cry)

Sometimes at night, I dream. A dream of a small

boy who is no more then one year old. Oh God,

he's beautiful. He has blue eyes and soft blond

hair and he holds my hand. It feels like he's

taking away some of my pain. I reach over to feel

his skin but I can't. Something is stopping me.

I dream this dream every night. Every night he

appears to me and he speaks to me.

VINNIE

What does he say?

GENESIS

(barely getting the words

out passed her tears)

He says, "Don't be afraid. I love you and I'm here

always to protect you." I cry when here him

speak. Last night though, he said in the most

heavenly voice I've ever heard, "I forgive you,

mother."

Genesis buries her head in the pillow and weeps almost uncontrollably.

GENESIS

What could I do? What choice did I have? I did the

right thing! I know I did. What could have i ever

done for this little boy? What would he have thought

of his mother...? He would've seen me as nothing

but a miserable whore!

VINNIE

He would've saw the exact same way that I see you,

beautiful.

GENESIS

I didn't make a mistake...

VINNIE

You did. And you have no desire to admit that then

you don't deserve his forgiveness.

GENESIS

Oh, what about you?

VINNIE

I don't admit that anything I've ever done has been

right. Nothing.

All is silent. Only the sound of Genesis’s whimpering can be heard.

VINNIE

Only by knowing your fault can you be sorry and be

forgiven. Understand that Genesis. A year ago I

should have taken you away, and for that I'm sorry

but things aren't always that easy.

Vinnie leaves the room. Genesis wipes the tears from her face but still she can’t step them from coming out.

CUT TO:

48. INT. - MALL PLAZA - NIGHT

Vinnie is sitting all by his lonesome pondering many thoughts. Although his thoughts are interrupted by the reappearance of a familiar face.

VINNIE

Simon Rei!

SIMON

Vinnie...

VINNIE

Are you here to kill me too?

SIMON

No. Vinnie I've been waiting for you.

VINNIE

What happened?

SIMON

The whole thing was a set up, right from the very

beginning. Coggswood's campaign was set up under an

anonymous name, this was leaked out to Aramond's

outfit who fitted in under secret documents the

name Gregory Samuel Redfield.

VINNIE

The fake account.

SIMON

All the spilling of blood money, the half million,

it was all set up. They just needed an attempted

bank robbery and rupture of the account to have

it exposed and put Jerith Coggswood behind bars.

VINNIE

Why?

SIMON

One name, that's all you need. Rufus Howser.

VINNIE

(angry)

Damn that pisses me off! An innocent man went to

jail for this.

SIMON

I have the documents to prove it.

Simon shuffles a folder in front of Vinnie bearing multiple papers describing the Redfield account and it's creation.

SIMON

If they knew I had this, I'd been marked.

VINNIE

We've got to get this to the police.

SIMON

What are you nuts? We robbed the bank.

VINNIE

You were deceived.

SIMON

I'm still a criminal. I'm not going to put myself in

a position in which I could be named an accessory.

VINNIE

An innocent man is in jail.

SIMON

Better him then me. I'm leaving town and I suggest

that you do the same.

Simon gathers up his stuff and leaves. Vinnie follows him downstairs to the parking lot via elevator.

CUT TO:

49. INT. - UNDERGROUND MALL PARKING LOT - DAY

The elevator finally reaches the lowest level, the parking lot. Vinnie and Simon exit the elevator and proceed walking until a bullet blazes by Vinnie’s head. Vinnie takes cover. Standing some ways away is Rufus Howser holding a gun. He turns around and sees Simon lying dead on the ground with a bullet in his head.

RUFUS

Show yourself Vinnie.

Vinnie gathers up the documents that Simon was holding and slowly creeps along the side of the parked cars trying to evade Rufus.

RUFUS

I know you're here somewhere. Stop hiding and give

me those documents Vinnie.

Rufus is sweating profusely as he tries to hunt Vinnie down. Rufus fires his gun again. Vinnie runs up through the exit gate and manages to evade Rufus. Before he reaches the gate, Rufus finds him. Rufus fires his gun and misses. He runs onto the driveway just as an oncoming car is passing. The car rams Rufus and sends him flying onto the windshield, and then he rolls onto the ground. A police siren flashes, stopping Vinnie dead in his tracks.

CUT TO:

50. INT. - POLICE STATION - DAY

The police station is fairly busy as Vinnie is taken inside. The next thing he realizes is a cop going through the documents that Simon was carrying.

POLICE MAN

What is all this?

VINNIE

It’s information on the Redfield case. It maps out

Aramond’s whole plan and all the players involved

in it.

The Police Man is stunned at first but then continues to go through it with a half smile on his face.

CUT TO:

51. INT. - ARAMOND'S OFFICE - DAY

Aramond is on the phone talking, sitting in his desk. The door is flung open and several policemen in suits enter.

POLICEMAN

Howard Aramond, we have a warrant for your arrest.

You have the right to remain silent. Anything you

say can and will be held against you in a court

of law.

Aramond looks on at the police in shock.

CUT TO:

52. INT. - VINNIE'S APARTMENT - DAY

Genesis is drinking her morning cup of coffee and reading the news- paper. The headline of the newspaper reads: "Governor Nightendack Impeached". Off to the side there is a small article with a picture of Jerith Coggswood titled, "Coggswood Released After Wrongful Imprison- ment". She places her coffee down and holds up her gun. With a calm face with a single tear flowing from her eye she holds the gun to her head. She’s interrupted by the sound of her phone.

GENESIS

Hello.

VINNIE

Hello Genesis.

All is silent for a brief moment.

VINNIE

Genesis?

The scene cuts back and forth between Genesis at home and Vinnie in the prison phone booth, sitting down.

GENESIS

I can’t go on anymore Vinnie.

VINNIE

Genesis, it’s over.

GENESIS

No. It’s never going to end, is it?

VINNIE

You can’t change the past Genesis. But you can

Make up for it. Please... Listen.

GENESIS

What's going to happen?

VINNIE

It doesn't matter Genesis. What matters is that

you're free. I told you I would take you away from

all of this. You're free.

Genesis wipes the small tear from her eye.

GENESIS

Last night, I dreamt of my son. He said to me that

he'd always be there for me. He said that you would

forever be looking after me. But most of all, last

night, I told him that I was sorry. I told him that

I would give anything just to hold him in my arms

but I couldn't. Vinnie... he forgave me. He forgave

me.

From the other end of the phone, Vinnie begins to get misty-eyed as well. Slowly he wipes the tears from his face.

GENESIS

I was wrong. I've been wrong about a lot of things.

I wish I could go back and change what has happened

but I can't. The road up ahead is what is important

right?

VINNIE

Yes. Always remember that.

GENESIS

Vinnie, it feels like... it feels like...

Genesis moves the gun away from her head. She shutters for a moment and then places it on the table.

GENESIS

...We’re free...

FADE TO BLACK

THE END