Twist
of Fate
Final Script - September 16, 1986
Includes Revisions - September 17, 1986
Written by Michael Berk & Douglas Schwartz
Originally Aired
October 28, 1986
Note: The following Final Script includes all revisions in the order they were attached. Just like the original script, (X) marks the spot of any changes or omissions made on September 17, 1986. All abbreviations will be (defined) immediately following the first appearance. And please remember that plagiarism or printing out copies to sell is not cool.
CAST LIST
SIMON MCKAY
ALEX JAGGER
TILLIE RUSSELL
THE MONGOL
BARTENDER
DR. LAYCOE
MYA
WOMAN'S VOICE
ANTHEA
TROYAN
IVAN
KOBI
SOLDIER #1
POOLE
SET LIST
INTERIORS:
SIMON'S HOUSE - BEDROOM - MORNING
BATHROOM
KITCHEN - DINING AREA - DAY/EVENING
INNER SANCTUM - DAY/EVENING
WORKSHOP - DAY/AFTERNOON
TAVERN - DAY & NIGHT
TENT/HOUSE - DAY & NIGHT
ANCIENT LAMASERY - DAY & NIGHT
LAMASERY ROOM - DAY
OUTSIDE LAMASERY ROOM - DAY
CLOISTER - DAY
************************************************************
EXTERIORS:
POND - DAY
SKY - DAY (STOCK)
TIBET - DAY (VARIOUS STOCK SHOTS)
DIRT ROAD - DAY
FARTHER DOWN THE ROAD - LATER
HIMALAYAS - DAY & SUNRISE (STOCK)
MOUNTAINSIDE - DAY & LATER
SNOW-COVERED FLATLAND - DAY
ANOTHER AREA OF MOUNTAIN - DAY
MOUTAIN LEDGE - DAY
MOUTAIN PASS - DAY & LATER
LITTLE HOUSE - DAY
TENT/HOUSE - DAY & NIGHT
LAMASERY - DAY (STOCK)
WALL - DAWN
Back to Top
****************************************************
ACT ONE
FADE IN
EXT. POND - DAY - 1
Sunlight glistens on a beautiful pond. A face, at once not beautiful but truly beautiful, appears reflected in the still water. It is the face of serenity . . . of mystical grace. Gentle hands bring water up in cupped palms. ANTHEA kneels amongst flowers touching the shore, at peace. Wearing a flower sari with Oriental designs, she raises her hands.
A WHITE DOVE - 2
glowing against the sun lands on Anthea's fingers to drink the water in her palms. There is harmony in this world. But that harmony is disrupted.
ANOTHER ANGLE - 3
A cold shadow descends upon the place. Anthea looks up.
THE SKY (STOCK) - 4
Angry, black clouds swirl with surreal speed blotting out the sun! A frigid wind blows.
THE DOVE - 5
sensing danger, flies away!
THE FLOWERS - 6
around Anthea have died!
ANTHEA 'S SENSES - 7
are on the alert. She stands, turning.
ANTHEA'S P.O.V. (Point Of View) - 8
In the distance comes a menacing figure, his face a void beneath a black cowl.
ANTHEA
watches the cloaked figure approach. She remains tranquil, a welcoming figure. Suddenly Simon's VOICE invades the tranquility.
SIMON (hollow; distant)
No, Anthea . . . Run . . . Be afraid, Anthea . . . Run . . .
ANOTHER ANGLE - 10
The evil figure is closer now. His footsteps BURN the ground!
SIMON
Run, Anthea! RUN!!!
Still tranquil, she turns.
SHOCK CUT TO:
THE CLOAKED FIGURE - 11
suddenly right in front of her! Its black cloud engulfs Anthea!
SIMON'S VOICE (screaming)
NO!!!
INT. SIMON'S BEDROOM - MORNING - 12
Simon's face SURGES INTO FRAME, sweaty, out of breath.
THE BEDROOM DOOR - 13
opens. TILLIE comes in. She sees:
SIMON'S EYES - 14
still focused on the nightmare.
TILLIE
Simon? Simon.
Simon's eyes shift focus to Tillie.
ANOTHER ANGLE - 15
SIMON
Tillie . . . Good morning.
TILLIE
Good morning? I could hear you halfway down the hall.
Simon wonders what she heard.
TILLE
Are you all right?
SIMON (clearly not)
I'm fine. I just had a dream. You know how vivid my dreams are.
TILLIE
I'm listening.
SIMON (smiles warmly)
Thank you, Tillie. And thanks for caring, but I'm all right, really. I'll be down for breakfast in a few minutes.
Simon smiles, looking like everything is peachy. Tillie, not convinced, exits.
THE BATHROOM - 16
Simon turns on the faucet & splashes cold water on his face, then looks at himself in the mirror. It's clear that Simon isn't okay, & that his dream affected him deeply.
OUT 17 - 22
Back to Top
INT. KITCHEN - MORNING - 22-A
Alex, wearing workout clothes after his morning workout, makes his specialty, walnut pancakes. Tillie puts dishes on the breakfast table. Alex holds a spatula with a trigger mechanism that flips the flat part over automatically.
TILLIE
I've never seen that kind of fear in Simon's eyes before.
ALEX
I can just imagine what Simon's dreams must be like with his imagination.
(holds up spatula, triggers it)
Most people don't dream up flapjack flippers.
TILLIE
He was really scared.
ALEX
Simon's good dreams are probably incredible, & his bad dreams scary.
TILLIE
I don't know. He wouldn't even talk about it.
Alex pus the spatula under a pancake & triggers the spatula. But instead of flipping over on the skillet, the pancake flies off toward Tillie, who holds up a plate in self defense! The pancake hits the plate & sticks.
ALEX
Good save.
(beat)
Tillie, Simon's an open person. I'm sure he'll tell us about it.
SIMON (entering)
Tell you about what?
TILLIE (covering)
How that flapjack flipper works.
ALEX
About your bad dream.
SIMON
I didn't have a bad dream.
TILLIE (with sensitivity)
Then who's Anthea?
Simon is surprised to hear the name coming from Tillie.
TILLIE
You screamed her name. Then you yelled for her to run.
Simon appears uncomfortable.
ALEX
Tillie's just concerned, Simon.
SIMON
I know.
TILLIE
So why won't you talk about what you dreamed.
SIMON
I told you. Nothing.
TILLIE
All right, all right, you're entitled to your privacy.
SIMON
No, Tillie, what I mean is that . . . it wasn't a dream.
TILLIE
What was it then?
SIMON (hesitates; then)
A call for help.
INT. KITCHEN - DINING AREA - DAY - 23
Simon, Tillie & Alex sit at the kitchen table eating breakfast. Simon isn't hungry.
ALEX
If you're worried, call her, talk to her on the phone.
SIMON
There are no phones where Anthea lives.
TILLIE
Where does she live?
SIMON
Very far away.
TILLIE
There must be some way to ease your mind, find out if she's okay.
SIMON
You don't understand. What's going to happen to Anthea hasn't happened yet. I have to stop it before it does.
ALEX
How can you be sure it wasn't just a dream?
SIMON
There's certain things you just know. Haven't you ever had a dream & then it happened?
ALEX
Sure, but that doesn't mean it was anything more than coincidence.
SIMON
There are no coincidences.
ALEX
You think everything that happens in our lives is fate? Our destiny?
SIMON
I think everything is cause & effect.
ALEX
Like tipping one domino & all the rest fall in a line.
SIMON
Except there isn't one line. There are infinite patters that can twist & turn, go up ramps, curve back, spread & narrows . . .
ALEX
Who sets up the dominos?
SIMON
Each of us for his own life. Every time we do something we make a cause that has an effect, for better or for worse. We change our destiny as we change ourselves.
TILLIE
Is that what Anthea taught you?
SIMON (smiles at Tillie's insight)
Anthea taught me a great many things, Tillie.
ALEX
During your missing six years?
SIMON
The flapjacks look great, Alex. Sorry I wasn't hungry.
Simon gets up from the table.
TILLIE
Where are you going?
ANGLE - SIMON'S BACK - 24
is turned away from Alex & Tillie. From the look in his eyes we know there is more going on than there is said.
SIMON
Down to my workshop. I have some dominos to set up.
Simon exits. Alex & Tillie look at one another.
ALEX
Do you believe everything is cause & effect?
Tillie hands him the dirty dishes.
TILLIE
Don't forget the pans on the stove.
ALEX (protesting)
I cooked.
TILLIE
That was the cause. Dirty dishes are the effect. It's your destiny.
Alex looks down at the dishes in his hands.
Back to Top
INT. SIMON'S INNER SANCTUM - DAY - 25
Simon sits at his workbench, back to door, making an intricate adjustment on a small toy. Totally focused.
INT. WORKSHOP - DAY - 26
Alex comes down the stairs & crosses to the open inner sanctum door. He looks at Simon, whose back it to him.
ALEX
Simon, why don't you take a break, come up for lunch?
SIMON (continuing his work)
Not right now. I've got to finish this. I'll be up later.
ALEX
Okay.
Alex goes back upstairs.
INT. WORKSHOP - CLOSEUP - AFTERNOON - 27
A gourmet frozen dessert on a plate. OPEN TO SEE Tillie carrying it through the workshop to the open inner sanctum door.
ANGLE - SIMON - 28
is still working on the small toy. He doesn't turn when Tillie enters.
TILLIE
Simon, it's 3:30. Stop for a minute. Give it a rest.
SIMON (continuing to work)
Not right now. I've got to finish this. I'll be up later.
TILLIE
I brought you your favorite dessert. (X)
SIMON
I'll be up later.
TILLIE
Well, I'll just leave it right here for you. Eat soon. We're having fresh halibut for dinner at 5:30.
Tillie sets the dessert down & exits.
INT. KITCHEN - EVENING - 29
Alex & Tillie at the table. The food is there but Simon is not. Alex & Tillie look at one another.
INT. INNER SANCTUM - EVENING - 30
Simon is still at his workbench making adjustments on the same small toy as Tillie & Alex enter.
TILLIE
Simon McKay, you stop whatever you're doing right this minute & come upstairs for dinner.
SIMON (continuing to work)
Not right now. I've got to finish this. I'll be up later.
ALEX
You've been saying that all day.
SIMON
I'll be up later.
Tillie sees the dessert is untouched. She looks at Alex.
ALEX
Simon, are you all --
He puts his hand on Simon's shoulder, but his hand passes right through Simon!
TILLIE
Oh my God.
Alex reaches through him again. Neither Simon nor the toy he's been working on are real. His image blinks on & off, triggered by Alex's hand passing through it. Simon's image turns, looking up to address Alex & Tillie, although not looking exactly where they are.
SIMON
Well, obviously you've just found out this is a hologram. I apologize for leaving like this, but I had to go to Anthea. And I know, Alex, that you wouldn't have let me go alone. I've taken a flight to Chengdu, China, then a train to Lhasa in Tibet. I'll probably stay the night at the Si-tsang Tavern before crossing the Himalayas to reach Anthea.
(looks at Alex)
Tillie, please don't worry about me.
(looks at Tillie)
And Alex, whatever you do, don't follow me.
The image flickers, then goes off & "Simon" disappears.
TILLIE
Should a' known when he kept saying the same thing over & over.
ALEX
Doesn't track.
TILLIE
What?
ALEX
Why would Simon say exactly where he was going, & then tell me not to follow him?
TILLIE
He didn't want us to worry.
ALEX (to himself)
Cause & effect . . .
TILLIE
What?
ALEX
If something happens to Simon & I'm not there to prevent it . . . I have to go after him, Tillie.
TILLIE
Alex, I know it's your job to protect Simon --
ALEX
This is more than my job. You said you'd never seen fear in Simon's eyes before that dream.
TILLIE
And you said it was only a dream.
ALEX
But Simon thinks it's more than that.
Alex & Tillie share an understanding. Tillie squeezes Alex's hand.
Back to Top
EXT. TIBET - DAY (VARIOUS STOCK SHOTS) - 31
SUPER: TIBET
ESTABLISH the rugged beauty of Tibet: The jagged, snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas, the craggy foothills, the lush valleys.
EXT. DIRT ROAD - DAY - 32
FROM A HIGH ANGLE we SEE a small, solitary figure walking by himself. Simon carries his carpetbag as he makes his way down a remote, dirt road.
FATHER DOWN THE ROAD - LATER - 33
Simon keeps going despite fatigue. An ox cart approaches from behind. Simon stops & talks animatedly to the TIBETAN DRIVER, who offers a wonderful, toothless grin. Simon climbs into the back of the cart. CRANE UP as the cart moves off with Simon lying in back.
INT. INN - TAVERN - NIGHT - 34
To describe this place in a sentence. The women are even tougher-looking than the men. It's cold outside, hot in here, & steam is being blown off through drink & game. The disorderly crowd yells encouragement to the COMBATANT of their choice!
TWO COMBATANTS - 35
are tied wrist to wrist. They circle, stalking one another near the open, rock fireplace in the center of the tavern. COMBATANT #1 (TENZING) is strong, catlike, his reflexes quickened by his years as a Sherpa guide. His opponent, is known only as THE MONGOL, a muscular, frightening man with eyes that stab like knives.
Tenzing feigns right -- The Mongol pulls him off-balance by their tied wrists & lunges!
LOW ANGLE - 36
Each man has one spiked hiking boot & one bare foot. The Mongol's spikes just miss Tenzing's bare foot as the Sherpa slides it out of the way!
QUICK CUTS - 37
Tenzing stomps . . . misses! Money is boisterously bet! The Mongol spins the Sherpa around, but loses his balance! Tenzing thrusts his spiked boot down as hard has he can! The Mongol just manages to escape by a toenail! Tenzing's spikes become imbedded in the floor! He pulls but can't extricate them! The Mongol unveils the chilling grin of a killer & delivers (o.s.) (off screen) the winning blow. The CHEERS drown out the scream as bets are collected.
THE MONGOL - 38
cuts the wrist rope & Tenzing hobbles away, not as badly hurt as we might have thought. The Mongol eyes the others in the tavern.
THE MONGOL
Dargeen poon keen bay.
Nobody accepts his challenge.
ANGLE - THE DOOR - 39
opens & Simon enters carrying his carpetbag.
VARIOUS SHOTS - 40
People turn to stare at him, including The Mongol.
SIMON - 41
smiles, nodding to people as he makes his way toward the bar.
SIMON'S P.O.V. - 42
moving past burly legs, looking up at inhospitable faces. Suddenly The Mongol is right in front of him, standing on one spiked boot & one gnarled, bare foot.
SIMON - 43
nods graciously.
SIMON
Oach-la-rey. (Subtitle: Excuse me.)
He moves past The Mongol, who watches menacingly as Simon goes to the bar.
AT THE BAR - 44
People go back to what they were doing but Simon's presence is not ignored. The BARTENDER/INNKEEPER stares at Simon.
BARTENDER
You want what.
SIMON
Good evening. I'd like a bed for the night & these supplies ready at dawn.
(hands him a list)
I'd also like some yak jerky, rice & a large glass of tazba, please.
The Bartender looks at the list, pockets it, then goes to get Simon food & drink.
SIMON - 45
reaches in the bag & brings out a billfold with local currency. He counts off several bills, then puts the rest of the money back in the bag.
When the Bartender returns with the rice, jerky & drink, Simon pays him.
SIMON
This should cover everything.
The Bartender starts counting the money.
LOW ANGLE - 46
Simon walks to a table & sets his food & drink down. He puts his bag on one of the other chairs. Simon is hungry & begins to eat. Suddenly The Mongol is towering over him again. Simon looks up at him. After a beat:
SIMON
Ta suu. (Subtitle: Would you like to sit down?)
The Mongol picks up Simon's bag & walks off with it. Simon is quickly in front of him.
SIMON
Me ni tunefig bu-sag eng. (Subtitle: I'll have my bag back.)
The Mongol pushes Simon aside.
SIMON
Ton tava mock ink bon . . . doruv . . . guruv . . . (Subtitle: You have five seconds . . . four . . . three . . .)
The Mongol turns, starting at Simon, laughing that this little man would warn him. He comes back to Simon, who stands his ground. Others move aside.
SIMON
Sog un-good-sun! (Subtitle: Time's up!)
The Mongol grabs Simon by the neck (or the collar if need be), lifts him in the air with one arm & carries Simon toward the open fireplace!
FADE OUT
Back to Top
END OF ACT ONE
**********************************************
ACT TWO
FADE IN
INT. TAVERN - NIGHT - 47
The Mongol has Simon's bag in one hand & Simon in the other. He lifts Simon toward the open fireplace!
SIMON
In tah-ne soo-lin bow-lum. (Subtitle: This is your last chance.)
The Mongol prepares to throw Simon into the fire! Simon yells toward his bag.
SIMON
Ralph! Sic him!
ANOTHER ANGLE - 48
A long, dark green tentacle bursts out of the opening of Simon's bag & wraps itself tightly around The Mongol's arm!
THE MONGOL - 49
stares in horror at the tentacle tightening around his arm! He drops Simon & grabs the tentacle with his free hand, trying to pull it off!
SIMON - 50
lands on the floor & looks up at The Mongol.
SIMON
I tried to warn you.
THE MONGOL
Ewe-nig nah-das za-luu!
The others in the tavern watch in awe & wonder as the tentacle appears to be pulling The Mongol's arm into the bag.
SIMON
You wanted my bag, now you've got it.
THE MONGOL
Ewe-nig boot-saag ahv!
He holds the bag out toward Simon.
SIMON (smiles)
Let go, Ralph.
THE TENTACLE - 51
releases The Mongol's arm & retracts back into Simon's bag.
THE MONGOL - 52
pushes the bag into Simon's arms & runs out of the Tavern, to the delight of everyone there.
SIMON - 53
smiles to everyone, then yawns.
SIMON
Well, it's been a long day. Time to get some rest. Good night.
Simon walks toward the door to the rooms. People step aside giving him plenty of space. He nods to them politely. He passes one woman wearing a bizarre, fur hat.
SIMON
Nice hat.
Before he reaches the door the Bartender comes to him.
BARTENDER
Please. What is in there, it cannot be in the room.
SIMON (opening bag for Bartender to look in)
Just a little device to toy with people who try to steal my bag. Say good night, Ralph.
The tentacle "peeks" out, gives a little wave, then withdraws quickly back into the bag as Simon exits through the door, leaving the people to wonder about this little man in their midst.
Back to Top
EXT. HIMALAYAS - SUNRISE (STOCK) - 54
The majesty of morning at the top of the world. The sun streaks across the mountains, gleaming off the ice & snow.
INT. TAVERN - MORNING - 55
Simon carefully packs supplies the Bartender has provided into a backpack. The Bartender holds up a pair of goggles.
SIMON
No, thanks, I brought my own.
BARTENDER
Will you need a Sherpa to guide you?
SIMON
I know my way. What are the conditions on the pass beyond Mt. Gametta?
BARTENDER
Very treacherous. Wait until Spring.
The Tavern door opens & Alex enters, looking the worse for wear, but buoyed by seeing Simon. Simon is overjoyed to see Alex. He rushes to him.
SIMON
Alex! I was starting to worry that you wouldn't show up!
Alex is surprised by Simon's reaction.
ALEX
What?
SIMON
Come on, we'll have to get your supplies. We need to leave right away.
ALEX
Wait a second. You mean you're glad to see me?
SIMON
More than glad. I'm overjoyed.
ALEX
I thought you didn't want me to follow you.
SIMON
I didn't. Oh, did you bring your gun?
ALEX
Yeah?
SIMON
You'll have to leave it here. We can pick it up on the way back.
ALEX
Wait, slow down, Simon. I've had a long trip, I'm exhausted & at the moment a little confused.
SIMON
Alex, I couldn't ask you to come with me, not . . . not where we're going. It had to be a choice you made for yourself, for your own reasons.
ALEX
Where are we going?
SIMON
Where destiny leads us, Alex.
Alex starts to ask another question. Simon lifts his hand.
SIMON
The answers will come. I'm very happy you're with me.
A moment between Alex & Simon.
Back to Top
EXT. HIMALAYAS - DAY (VARIOUS STOCK SHOTS) - 56
Majestic panoramas of the mountain range & snow-covered tundra below.
EXT. SNOW-COVERED FLATLAND - DAY - 57
(PRODUCTION NOTE: ALL SNOW/TREKKING SCENES TO BE SHOT ON STAGE) LOW ANGLE ON the snow.
Simon & Alex trek across the snow toward the foot of a mountain. Each wears a backpack. Simon carries his carpetbag. Simon wears traditional clothes for warmth, Alex clothes are more modern. (X)
OUT - 58
VARIOUS SHOTS - 59
as they make their way through the snow to the mountain. (PRODUCTION NOTE: IF AFFORDABLE, ONE OR POSSIBLY TWO SHOTS -- INTRAVISION OR SIMILAR TECHNIQUE -- TYING SIMON & ALEX INTO ACTUAL HIMALAYAN FOOTAGE WOULD GO A LONG WAY TOWARD SELLING THIS TREK.)
ALEX & SIMON'S P.O.V. (STOCK) - 60
gazing up from the base of a formidable mountain. Rugged, rockfaces jut out through the snow.
ALEX & SIMON - 61
stand at the base of the mountain, surveying the difficult climb ahead.
SIMON
We have to scale the south face to reach the pass.
ALEX
You sure you know where you're going.
SIMON (answering more than the question asked)
I'm sure.
OUT - 62-65
EXT. MOUNTAINSIDE - NARROW PATH - DAY - 65-A
Alex & Simon, tied together by a hemp rope, hike along a narrow path winding up the side of the mountain.
ANOTHER ANGLE - 65-B
The path is steep & dangerous.
ON THE LEDGE - 66
Using the spiked toes of their boots on the treacherous ledge, & small outcroppings of icy rock for handholds, Alex & Simon make their way across. Alex looks down.
ALEX'S P.O.V. (STOCK) - 67
jagged rocks far below!
VARIOUS CLOSEUPS - 68
to build suspense: Hands gripping . . . Toe-spikes digging in . . . tension on faces . . . the drop to the jagged rocks!
A ROPE FOOTBRIDGE - 68-A
stretches across a deep ravine. The ropes are frayed, the footing worn & hazardous.
SIMON - 68-B
starts onto the footbridge, then Alex after him.
ON THEIR FEET - 68-C
stepping carefully on the rungs. Below, the long drop!
VARIOUS SHOTS - 68-D
building tension as Simon & Alex cross the bridge. Suddenly:
ONE OF THE RUNGS - 68-E
breaks & Simon plummets!
OUT - 69-70
ANGLE - 71
Simon FALLS THROUGH FRAME, the safety rope unfurling!
ALEX - 72
braces himself & grips the rope bridge tightly as:
SIMON'S BODY - 73
jerks to a stop!
ANGLE DOWN (BLUE SCREEN) - 74
Simon dangling over the precipice.
ALEX - 75
starts to pull Simon back up.
EXT. MOUTAINSIDE - DAY (LATER) - 76
Simon & Alex finally reach the ridge high on the side of the mountain. They stand triumphant, looking down to the other side.
THEIR P.O.V. (STOCK) - 77
A mountain pass stretches far below between the mountains. Clouds shroud the peaks & threaten the pass.
ALEX & SIMON - 78
catch their breath.
SIMON
We're lucky. The avalanches haven't closed the pass yet.
ALEX
Yet?
Alex takes a drink from his canteen, then passes it to Simon, who dinks.
ALEX
You know, I could have gotten Linden to air lift us in wherever we're going.
SIMON
It's a very ancient place, Alex. We can't invade it by helicopter. We have to enter the way those who find it have entered for a thousand years.
(looks up)
The sky is closing in. We'd better get down there before the weather turns.
Simon hands Alex his canteen back & starts down. Alex goes with him.
EXT. HIMALAYAS - DAY (STOCK) - 79
Wind-whipped snow blows through the mountains.
EXT. MOUTAIN PASS - DAY - 80
The blowing snow lessens visibility. We can barely SEE the distant mountains as Simon & Alex trek TOWARD CAMERA.
CLOSE ON SIMON - 81
trudging through snow (X)
SIMON
Best get into shelter for the night.
ALEX
Can't get closer to the mountains in case of avalanche.
Simon opens his bag. He takes out a small, brightly-painted house.
SIMON
We'll stay in here.
Alex looks at Simon like he's crazy.
ALEX
Simon, we're people, not shrinky-dinks.
SIMON (laughs)
Alex, the last thing I want to do is shrink.
Simon puts the little house down in the snow.
SIMON
We have to give it a few seconds to absorb the moisture.
CLOSE ON THE LITTLE HOUSE - 82
as it starts to grow before our eyes. (PRODUCTION NOTE: ONE WAY TO ACCOMPLISH THIS IS TO BLUE SCREEN THE LITTLE HOUSE, ZOOM IN ON IT, THEN PUT THIS AGAINST THE BACKGROUND, CREATING THE ILLUSION THAT THE HOUSE IS GROWING.)
ANOTHER ANGLE - 83
Alex watches in amazement as the house (BELOW FRAME) gets larger. The top of it suddenly appears in the f.g. (foreground), growing up in front of Alex.
SIMON - 84
watches in delight.
ALEX
How do you think these things up?
SIMON
If I knew I probably wouldn't be able to.
ANOTHER ANGLE - 85
The colorful house is as big as a tent now. Simon opens the door.
SIMON
After you.
Alex takes a deep breath & has to duck to enter. Simon follows him & shuts the door. Snow falls on the roof.
INT. TENT/HOUSE - AFTERNOON - 86
The interior is painted to look like a cozy house with painted-on windows & art. Alex sits on the floor marveling at Simon's handiwork.
ALEX
What, no furniture?
SIMON
Sorry, afraid we'll have to rough it.
Simon takes a unique colorful container out of his bag. Two cups lift off. He hands one to Alex.
SIMON
Hot chocolate?
ALEX
Simon, I like roughing it with you.
Simon pours steaming hot chocolate into each of their cups.
SIMON
To destiny.
ALEX
To life.
SIMON/ALEX
L'chaim.
They toast & drink their hot chocolate.
EXT. TENT/HOUSE - NIGHT - 87
Wind whistles through the mountain pass. The little house can barely be SEEN through the snow.
INT. TENT/HOUSE - NIGHT - 88
Inside it's warm & cozy, light & heat come from a lantern. Simon & Alex sleep beneath lightweight, thermal blankets. CAMERA MOVES SLOWLY IN ON Simon, sleeping restlessly. As we MOVE IN ON Simon's eyes in REM:
INT. ANCIENT LAMASERY - CLOSE ON FLAMES - 89
An intense pyre, seething, consuming. As we MOVE TOWARD the inferno, we suddenly SEE Simon in the flames, enduring the agony.
SIMON - 90
tosses in his sleep, his face drenched with perspiration!
DISSOVLE TO:
EXT. TENT/HOUSE - MORNING - 91
A light snow falls. Snow is piled on the roof of the little house & against the sides.
INT. TENT/HOUSE - MORNING - 92
Alex wakes up & stretches. He stops in mid-stretch staring at:
SIMON'S THERMAL BLANKET - 93
flat on the floor. Simon is nowhere to be seen.
EXT. TENT/HOUSE - MORNING - 94
Pulling on his parka, Alex rushes out looking for Simon. He scans the area.
ALEX
Simon? Simon!
ALEX'S P.O.V. - 95
Twenty yards away, a mound of snow, a patch of color!
ALEX - 96
sprints through the snow, then kneels at the mound, digging under it & lifting Simon's body in his arms! Simon is unconscious, rigid, his lips blue, his skin pale.
ALEX
Simon? (X)
Simon doesn't respond.
INT. TENT/HOUSE - MORNING - 97
Alex has wrapped Simon in his thermal blanket. He rubs Simon's hands rapidly to warm them.
ALEX
Come on, you've gotta wake up . . . You can do it . . . Open your eyes. Please open your eyes . . . (X)
Alex continues working on Simon. A moment later, Simon's eyes flicker open.
ALEX
Thank God. (X)
SIMON (weakly)
My flesh was burning . . . had to put out the fire . . .
ALEX
Don't talk. Just take it easy.
SIMON (weakly)
Must keep going, Alex . . . Get to Anthea . . .
ALEX
You're in no condition to go anywhere right now.
Simon struggles to sit up. He looks deeply into Alex's eyes.
SIMON
We must keep going . . .
Alex looks into Simon's eyes. There is a deep communication.
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EXT. MOUNTAIN PASS - DAY - 98
The sky is dark. The snow & wind are becoming more severe. Alex appears through the snow carrying Simon in his arms. Simon is wrapped up in the thermal blanket to keep him warm.
Alex, wearing Simon's bag tied to backpack, carries Simon off & o.s. (X)
EXT. MOUNTAIN PASS - LATER - 99
It's a blizzard now. Alex leans against the wind, clutching Simon to his chest, visibility a matter of feet in front of him. (X)
ALEX
Which way, Simon?
SIMON - 100
barely conscious, his skin ashen gray, his voice weak.
SIMON
. . . trust your instincts . . .
ALEX - 101
covers Simon tighter & forges ahead through the snow.
EXT. MOUTAIN PASS - LATER - 102
Alex struggles, then stumbles to his knees. He looks down at:
SIMON - 103
who's lost consciousness.
ALEX - 104
gets back to his feet & keeps going. Suddenly he sees:
THREE PEOPLE - 105
wearing skins turned with fur in, approaching through the snow. We will learn that one man, IVAN, in his fifties, is Russian. The other man, KOBI, in his thirties, is a black African, & the woman, MYA, in her twenties, is Oriental. The three rush up.
ALEX (exhausted)
Thank God . . . Please, my friend . . . he needs help.
MYA
We know. Here, let us take him.
But Alex holds Simon protectively.
ALEX'S P.O.V. - 106
looking into all three faces. They are gentle . . . open.
BACK TO SCENE - 107
Alex still won't release Simon.
ALEX
I've got him. Just show me the way.
The three support Alex & lead him off through the snowstorm with Simon in his arms.
DISSOLVE TO:
Back to Top
EXT. LAMASERY - DAY (STOCK) - 108
Preferably a mystical, ancient structure in a green valley surrounded by snow-covered mountains.
INT. LAMASERY - DAY - 109
A large, cloistered oval area is lit by torches mounted on the gallery above, & by a fire pit in the center -- the same firepit Simon was being consumed by in his dream.
Fourteen people (eight men & six women from all over the world) gather near the base of a stairway. They're ordinary people dressed to suit their personalities or their culture. (PRODUCTION NOTE: People should not be wearing traditional "costumes" of their country, but the clothes they might wear everyday in their country.)
They look toward the top of:
THE STAIRS - 110
Mya has started down the stairs ahead of Alex, who still carries Simon. Alex stops at the top of the stairs taking in the place & the people.
ALEX'S P.O.V. - 111
The place is mystical, but the people are not what Alex expected.
ALEX - 112
carries Simon's inert body down the stairs, followed by Ivan & Kobi.
AT THE BOTTOM OF THE STAIRS - 113
The people greet Alex, each in his or her own language. They're solicitous about Simon.
ALEX (subdued)
Is there a doctor here?
Dr. Laycoe, an American in his fifties wearing glasses & a comfortable sweater, comes forward.
DR. LAYCOE
I'm a doctor.
ALEX
He's gone into shock. His body temperature's dropped very low. (X)
The Doctor checks Simon as Alex holds him.
DR. LAYCOE
Hypothermia. He has severe frost bite. We'll take him.
Dr. Laycoe gestures to some others to take Simon from Alex. But Alex won't let him go.
ALEX
Just tell me where to bring him.
DR. LAYCOE
This way.
CLOSE ON A LARGE STONE - 114
on top of the raised platform opposite the stairs. The bottom & sides of the stone are rough, natural. The top is flat, with a smooth indentation where people have lied upon it for a thousand years. OPEN TO REVEAL Alex holding Simon. Dr. Laycoe stands next to him. The others are gathered in a circle holding hands. When Alex looks at them, they smile encouragement. The circle is not ceremonial per se, it is a gathering of caring people offering their unified support.
Dr. Laycoe removes Simon's boots & socks, which are almost frozen. He nods to Alex, who gently lays Simon's body on the stone. The Doctor joins hands with the other people.
ALEX
Is this all you're gonna do? Lay him on a rock & holds hands? Come on, you're a Doctor.
DR. LAYCOE
As a doctor, I'm afraid I'd have to amputate his frostbitten right foot to save his leg.
ALEX (very upset)
There must be something else, I mean, some other kind of treatment?
DR. LAYCOE
There is. But unfortunately, they don't teach it in medical school. That's one of the reasons I've come here.
MYA
Each of us is here for a different reason, just as you are.
ALEX
Look, the only reason I'm here is because Simon had a dream about someone named Anthea. Do you know who that is?
WOMAN'S VOICE (friendly warm)
I'm Anthea.
Alex turns to see:
ANTHEA - 115
descending from the opening behind the platform. She wears the same, colorful sari she wore in Simon's dream. She approaches Alex & offers her hand. Alex takes it. She lowers her other hand to enfold Alex's. Her eyes calm Alex, reassure him.
ALEX
I'm Alex.
ANTHEA
Thank you for helping Simon.
ALEX
He said he had to come here to help you.
ANTHEA
We're all here to help each other.
Anthea goes to Simon on the stone.
ALEX
Can you do anything?
ANTHEA
Simon's life condition is strong. But he needs all our energy. Especially yours.
ALEX
Mine?
ANTHEA
Join the circle. Open your heart & let your love for Simon flow freely.
Anthea releases Alex's hand. Mya & Kobi separate & offer their hands. Alex joins hands with them.
ANTHEA - 116
steps up next to the stone. She gazes at Simon with love.
ANTHEA
I have missed you, old friend.
Anthea begins to rub her hands against the smooth stone next to Simon's body, slowly at first, then faster in circular patterns. A BLUE AURA begins to SLOWLY FORM around Anthea's hands, a glowing energy.
ALEX - 166-A
His eyes open wide as he watches:
ANTHEA'S HANDS - 116-B
touch Simon, one on his forehead, the other holding his left hand. The blue glow spreads to Simon.
ANTHEA - 116-C
ANTHEA
Draw the healing light into you, Simon. Feel it spread through your being.
PAN THE FACES - 117
of the people gathered around Anthea & Simon. their faces reveal a positive serenity. The hint of a smile, hope. END ON Alex's face. He cannot rid himself of the tension. He watches Anthea, his hands tightly gripping Mya's & Kobi's.
ANTHEA - 118
focuses on her concentration.
CLOSE ON SIMON'S FACE - 119
Anthea moves her hand from Simon's forehead slowly down over his ashen face. As her glowing hand passes, the color returns to Simon's face.
As Anthea removes her hands, the glow fades & Simon's eyes flicker open.
SIMON'S P.O.V. - 120
COMING INTO FOCUS, Anthea's face, smiling warmly down at him.
SIMON - 121
gazes into Anthea's eyes. There is love -- not romantic love -- but true love between Simon & Anthea.
OUT - 122
ALEX - 123
watches in wonderment as Simon lifts his head.
ANGLE - SIMON & ANTHEA - 124
gaze at one another, silent communication more profound than words can say. Between them in the b.g. (background) is the fire ablaze in the center. Simon slowly turns from Anthea to look at the fire.
SIMON'S P.O.V. - 125
The orange & yellow flames that warm the room appear ominous -- as they appeared to Simon in his nightmare.
SIMON - 126
responds to the foreboding fire, then looks up into Anthea's eyes. She is sensitive to Simon's emotions, & helps ease his fear with the warmth in her eyes. Each seems to know why they have been brought together.
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EXT. POND - DAY - 127
This is the same tranquil, beautiful place where Anthea was in Simon's dream . . . blue sky, lush grass, a garden of colorful flowers.
ANTHEA & SIMON - 128
who's changed his clothes, walk down a gradual slope toward the water. Each is aware that there is a significance to their being together here, but for now that remains a subliminal undercurrent to the scene. Simon limps slightly on his right leg (a limp that will soon go away).
ANTHEA
Hold my hand?
Simon takes her hand, not as a crutch, but definitely for support. He looks at Anthea's hand.
SIMON
If only you could package the healing power here.
ANTHEA
I am the package, Simon.
Simon nods, absorbing the joy & tranquility of this place.
SIMON
I've missed this place. Sometimes I wish I'd stayed here.
ANTHEA
But the point is for all people to leave here & take what they have learned back to share with others, as you have. How are your toys? Are they wonderful?
SIMON
People seem to like them.
ANTHEA
Toys are so important. There has to be playtime or the joys & wonders of childhood wither away & die.
SIMON
I owe it all to you. You showed me the way.
ANTHEA
I only showed you the way to find out who you already were. (X)
Anthea & Simon share a silent beat, then Anthea takes water in cupped hands. She holds it in front of her & looks at Simon.
SIMON'S P.O.V. - 129
Anthea appears exactly as she did in Simon's dream. She offers the water to him.
SIMON - 130
understands that this is a significant moment. He lowers his head & sips the water. As he drinks, an OMIINOUS SOUND begins, growling LOUDER & LOUDER. Simon looks into Anthea's eyes! Wind whips around them, tearing the flowers, blowing the petals away!
A dark shadow passes over them as it did in Simon's dream! Before Simon can say anything, Anthea takes both his hands in hers.
ANTHEA
I can't run, Simon.
(to his reaction)
I heard you in my dream.
The wind whips harder. Simon looks up!
SIMON'S P.O.V. - 131
A helicopter descends toward them! (PRODUCTION NOTE: The helicopter need not tie into this location.)
BACK TO SCENE - 132
SIMON
There's danger, Anthea, terrible evil. I feel it.
ANTHEA
We're not immune, Simon. Evil exists.
Simon looks up.
SIMON'S P.O.V. - 133
The helicopter veers off, flying away from them. It lands unseen behind foliage. The engine stops. Silence returns.
SIMON - 134
takes hold of Anthea's hands.
SIMON
Whatever it is, I'm here to face it with you.
ANTHEA
Then it's a benefit. Because it's brought us back together.
Simon & Anthea hold each other's gaze then Simon looks behind her, drawing a deep breath!
SIMON'S P.O.V. - 135
coming toward them from behind the foliage is the nightmarish figure in black cowl & cloak from Simon's nightmare!
As he walks toward them:
FADE OUT
Back to Top
END OF ACT TWO
*****************************************************************
ACT THREE
FADE IN
EXT. POND - AS BEFORE - 136
The menacing figure continues toward:
SIMON & ANTHEA - 137
hold their ground amidst the decimated flowers.
THEIR P.O.V. - 138
Out of the foliage charge FOUR GUNMEN with automatic weapons!
SIMON - 139
steps boldly in front of Anthea. She steps up next to him & holds his hand.
ANTHEA
Together, Simon, remember?
The Gunmen stop twenty yards away, not aiming, but holding their weapons at the ready.
SIMON - 140
stares at the approaching figure from his nightmare.
THE CLOAKED FIGURE - 141
seems to react to Simon's presence as well. He stops in front of Simon. SHOT ZOOMS SLOWLY on the unseen face.
INTERCUT WITH:
MATCHING ZOOM OF SIMON'S FACE - 142
As the two stare at one another. Suddenly Simon has a realization.
SIMON
Troyan . . .
TROYAN
Fitting you should be here, McKay.
SIMON
I should have known it was you.
ANTHEA
You don't need weapons here. Everyone is welcome.
SIMON
He's not.
TROYAN
Being welcome doesn't matter to me. Being in control does.
Troyan gestures to his soldiers, who close in around Simon & Anthea.
INT. CLOISTER - DAY - 143
TRACKING IN FRONT OF Alex, Mya, Ivan & Kobi as they walk through the cloister. Alex has changed clothes. In the b.g. people are chanting, "Om Mani Padme hum." Over & over, one reason they didn't hear the helicopter.
MYA
People of all races & religions from around the world have been finding their way here for a thousand years. Some of us have come for physical healing, some for spiritual healing, all to raise our life condition.
ALEX
But how does someone get here?
KOBI
The same way as you. Our lives lead us here.
ALEX
Dominos.
IVAN
Excuse me?
ALEX
Nothing. So, you all come & go. What about Anthea?
IVAN
She has been the light here for over a hundred years.
ALEX
You're saying Anthea is over a hundred years old?
KOBI
That's all she'll admit.
MYA
She's a woman. She has the right.
The group stops, realizing that the chanting has suddenly ceased.
THEIR P.O.V. - 144
out of the cloister. The others around the fire look up with concern.
ANGLE - THE SURROUNDING BALCONY - 145
Troyan's soldiers take up positions, their weapons aimed down.
AT THE TOP OF THE STAIRS - 146
Troyan (still in cowl & cloak) stands looking down. Behind him, Simon & Anthea in front of Poole.
IN THE CLOISTER - 147
Mya turns:
HER P.O.V. - 148
Ivan & Kobi are there, but Alex is gone.
BACK TO SCENE - 149
MYA
Alex?
She looks for him as one of Troyan's men rushes up.
SOLDIER #1
Out there!
He herds them with his rifle into:
THE CENTER OF THE LAMASERY - 150
With the others by the fire pit. Mya keeps an alert eye open for Alex.
TROYAN - 151
descends the stairs in front of Simon & Anthea, who hold hands.
AT THE BOTTOM OF THE STAIRS - 152
Troyan "stares" out of his cowl at Simon's & Anthea's hands. Troyan takes off one glove revealing a hand scarred & brittle.
TROYAN
Hold my hand.
Anthea looks at Troyan's radiation-poisoned hand with pity & concern.
SIMON
Don't, Anthea. He's living his fate. (X)
ANTHEA
Which has brought him here to me.
TROYAN
He brought me to you! He did this! Cursed me to live the last nine years of my life in pain. Live without sunlight!
SIMON
You've caused your own darkness Troyan. I've only tried to stop you from spreading it like the plague!
ANTHEA
Simon.
She gently but firmly stops him from sinking to Troyan's level.
ANTHEA (to Simon)
You came here many years ago, you said, because of him. Now he says that he is here because of you. Your lives are quite obviously intricately intertwined. You're here together for a reason.
IN THE CLOISTER - 153
Alex moves stealthily through the shadows.
BACK TO SCENE - 154
TROYAN
I'm here to be healed by you! Put an end to this torment! It has taken me a long time to find my way here. And I won't let him interfere!
SIMON
You don't belong here, Troyan.