A Fine Line Screenplay

A FINE LINE

By

Courtney Brandt

First Draft2.25.2008WGA #123456c 2008

Courtney Brandt268 Shire WayLawrenceville GA 30044

EXT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - DAY

LUCY KARATE, 17 years old, carries her bass drum across a busyhigh school parking lot to a practice field. POV perspectiveshows what it's like to be behind second bass. Anappropriately alternative pop song (Paramore, All Time Low)plays in her (our) headphones.

She (camera) looks to the right, then up, just in time to seea football sail directly towards and crash into her drum.

CUT TO:

Credit sequence. Band camp is condensed into a montage. In ayearbook / still photo style (The Break Up / Sahara / Can'tHardly Wait) clips show the entire marching band working hard,but playing hard as well. We're introduced to Lucy's innercircle of friends and it's obvious she's a well liked normalmember of the senior class at Forrest Hills HS. From thesoundtrack, the audience should understand the halftime showis Big Band music (Glen Miller, Benny Goodman, etc.).

FLASH TO:

EXT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - DAY

A shocked Lucy sets calmly her drum on the ground and looks atit, inspecting the damage. She's dressed for physicalactivity, hair up, not overly styled, eyes hidden behind darksunglasses. If someone who is 5'3" can look intimidating,it's her.

LUCYWhat the f---?

Lucy's expletive is cut off by an off screen cymbal crash. Incensed by the gaping hole in her drum, she picks up thefootball and interrupts the team by walking into the middle oftheir practice.

LUCYWho put a hole in my drum head?

The jocks, who easily weigh double our protagonist, shiftuncomfortably, until the crowd parts and reveals WESMALLINSON, a Beckham lookalike from the same country.

WES(unexpectedly, his accentis a charming British one)

I'm terribly sorry.

LUCY

1.

I'm sure you are.

WESIf I could just help you--

LUCYThanks, but you've done more thanenough already.

Lucy chucks the ball, expertly directing it at Wes's crotch,and walks back towards her drum, amidst catcalls,inappropriate comments, and whistles from the jocks.

WESWho was that?

SEANI don't know, some band geek. They're all the same.

Wes's eyes follow Lucy as she walks away.

EXT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - PRACTICE FIELD (SAME DAY)

Lucy's best friends, MANDY and GINA, walk with her backtowards the school after marching band practice.

MANDYSo, why were you late today, Luce?Not setting a very good example forthe freshman, are we?

LUCYI would have been there, had it notbeen for some lame-ass jock whodecided my bass drum made goodtarget practice.

GINAWhat did he look like?

LUCY(shrugs)

I don't know. Kind of tall, he wasthe kicker, I think.

GINAThe new guy put a hole in yourdrum?

LUCYSchool only started yesterday, howcould you already know about a

2.

'new' guy?

MANDYThe whole school knows about him.

LUCYWell, obviously not everyone. Whatmakes him so special?

GINAUhh... He's British?

LUCYAnd all British people are special?

MANDYDid you even look at him, Lucy?He's kind of like a god. And youknow jocks aren't my type.

GINAYou know, maybe you should like,ask him for some sort ofretribution.

LUCYLike what? Money for a new bassdrum head? My time back?

GINAI don't know, a date?

LUCYYou have got to be kidding me. Thisis the real world, Gina. Drum linegirls like me do not interact withjocks like him. Not to mention,hello? Remember Sam?

GINAI thought you two broke up.

LUCYNot officially. I mean, eventhough he's a few hundred milesaway, I'm not going to run aroundcheating on him at the firsthypothetical chance I get.

CUT TO:

INT. LUCY'S BEDROOM (NIGHT)

3.

Lucy, still in her practice clothes from earlier, is on alaptop talking via video chat with SAM, her boyfriend, acollege freshman. He's quite obviously sitting in a dormroom. Both rooms can help with subtle character development(what bands they like, if they are messy or clean, etc.).

LUCYSo, you had a good practice?

SAMYeah, it's, well, I've said itbefore, college amrching band isvery different from being on a highschool Line. So, is your senioryear off to a good start?

LUCY(pauses)

Oh, fine. You know, nothingspecial.

O.S.

There is some loud pounding on Sam's door, accompanied by afew female voices.

LUCYSounds like your fan club is back.

SAMI told you it's not like that...

LUCYI know, I mean, if your were on myhall... Anyway, I've got a ton ofAP Bio to work on, go have someunsupervised fun.

SAMLove you, Luce.

LUCYLove you too.

She shuts her laptop, a thoughtful expression on her face.

INT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - CAFETERIA

Lucy sits with the rest of the drum line during lunch.Suddenly, everyone stops talking and looks behind her.

LUCY

4.

If you guys tell me there's a sharkbehind me, I'm going to be veryupset.

There is no response from her section.

LUCYSeriously, guys?

TOMI think someone wants to apologize.

Lucy turns around and looks up.

WES(holding a giant bouquetof daisies and thruststhem towards her)

Umm, I'm really sorry aboutyesterday.

LUCY(looks at the flowersdistastefully)

Are you mental? Look, dude, whatdo you think this is? Some sort oflame American sitcom, where, where-- ?

She sneezes violently, half crashing into Wes.

WESGod bless you?

With the entire Line still watching the awkward pair, Lucycontinues to sneeze.

LUCY(eyes watering)

I'b sebiously allergmic to daisies. Danks for nobing.

In a huff, she leaves the table, leaving a defeated andspeechless Wes in the middle of the drummers. TOM, Lucy'sbest friend, feels sorry for the new student and stands upto help him.

TOM(leading him away from thesnickering drummers)

Let me tell you where you wentwrong.

5.

WESI... I thought I was being nice.

TOMYou were. Lucy is a bit... Well,she's nice once you get to know herand I'm sure deep down, sheappreciates the effort. Maybethere's something else you can doto apologize.

INT. HOUSE - KARATE RESIDENCE

Lucy angrily paces in her room, talking on her cell phone.

LUCYYeah, Gina, I'll be fine - I mean,I'm glad my mom gave me the dayoff. I'll get caught up onapplications and all that.

(she listens to aresponse)

Yeah, yeah, I'll definitely be atthe game tonight. I'm just going tocrash for a few minutes - I think Imay have gone a bit too heavy onthe Benadryl earlier. Later.

Lucy throws the phone in a nearby chair, strips off herflannel pants and turns off the light, instantly passingout.

EXT. HOUSE - KARATE RESIDENCE

Wes stands at the front door, books in one hand, about totap on the wood paneling. He puts his hand down, takes adeep breath and finally knocks. The door unlocks to revealCRAIG KARATE, Lucy's ten-year-old younger brother. Hesquints up at the much taller young man.

CRAIGWhat do you want?

WESOh, hello there. I'm here to seeyour sister - I brought her schoolassignments.

CRAIG(arms crossed)

You're not a drummer.

WES

6.

No, I play football.

CRAIGLike, soccer?

WESLike both, actually. My first gameis tonight.

Craig weighs this information.

CRAIGWhat position?

WESI'm a striker, but since yourseasons are a bit backwards here, Iwon't get to play real footballuntil the fall. For now, I'm thekicker.

This answer appears to placate Craig.

CRAIGShe's upstairs.

Wes follows Craig inside. The younger Karate beelines backtowards his gaming system, leaving Wes awkwardly by himself.The footballer walks upstairs, taking note of pictures ofLucy at various formal dances (one should include Sam) andin her band uniform which hang on the wall.

He pauses at a door, clearly Lucy's based on its graffiti,posters, and stickers, and hesitates like he did at herfront door.

WES(to himself)

What am I worried about? Kick offis in two hours. This should benothing...

Opening the door, he sees no one, but hears Lucy breathingpeacefully, passed out on her bed. He quietly puts herassignments down and moves to leave, but steals another lookand inexplicably moves closer to his classmate.

At that moment, Lucy's eyes open. She blinks once, twice,then...

LUCYWhat the HELL are you DOING IN MYROOM???

7.

Wes backs up slowly, half stumbling over a chair, ending up onhis back. He puts his hands up defensively.

WESYou see...your brother let me in...

LUCYTo what? Take advantage of me?

WESLook, I feel terrible aboutyesterday and the day before that.I brought your assignments.

He points to where he's left them on the table.

LUCYFine. Whatever gets you out of mylife. Now, be a good lad and turnaround so I can get dressed for thegame.

WES(channeling his best HughGrant shuffles to astanding position, whileat the same time tries tocatch her reflection inthe mirror)

I um, well, I can see that you'rebusy... Anyway, I promise I won'tbug you any more.

Part cyclone, part Holly Golightly, Lucy whirls around herroom, gathering up parts of her uniform that are strewnabout in random places.

WES(realizing she hasn't beenlistening)

So, I'll just be going.

LUCYIt was here somewhere...

(she gets down on allfours and peers under thebed)

Aha!(she triumphantly holds aDrillmaster aloft)

Time to get to the game.

8.

WES(unable to leave)

What's all this for?

LUCYWell, I don't know what happens inthe U.K., but here in the States,after you guys pass, punt, orwhatever your way to victory, thenwe come on the field and the realshow starts.

WESOh?

LUCYHave you never seen a halftimeshow?

WESNo.

LUCYWell, that's your fault then. Anyway, you're going to miss it bybeing in the locker room.

She stuffs everything in a ratty duffel bag, grabs heruniform bag, Shako box, and takes a quick peek in themirror, randomly doing her hair.

LUCY(cont'd)

I'm going to be late for warm ups,so you'd better leave. And, by theway, I never want to see you again.

Satisfied with the image in the mirror, Lucy leaves theroom. Wes follows speechless and bewildered in her wake.

EXT. HOUSE - KARATE RESIDENCE

Lucy walks through the door, shouting a hasty good bye to herbrother.

She then chucks all of her accoutrement in her car and cranksup the engine.

LUCY(leans out the window)

Do you mind?

As Wes is blocking her in, he has no choice. Still flustered,

9.

he quickly puts the car in reverse, stomps the accelerator,and sends the automobile directly into the Karate's brickmailbox. The sound of metal and brick meeting is not a prettyone.

CUT TO:

INT. WES'S CAR

WESBollocks.

Lucy, the anger easily apparent on her face, taps on thewindow, which he reluctantly lowers.

LUCYDid I do something to you in aformer life?

INT. LUCY'S CAR (SAME NIGHT)

Lucy drives recklessly through the suburbs. Her passenger,freshman red head and one of the other drum line girls,BRONWYN FLUEGER, can only sit and listen as the driverrants.

LUCYHe is such a jerk!

BRONWYNWho?

LUCYSo, I'm all asleep and thensuddenly there's this guy in myroom and he's all, 'I'm WesleyMallinson III, so charming to meetyou.'

BRONWYN(giggles at Lucy'satrocious British accent)

Did he really say that?

LUCYNo, and when I finally managed toget him out of the house, he backedinto my mailbox! Then my mom showsup, and you know what she decidesto do?

BRONWYNWhat?

10.

LUCYShe decides the best idea will befor him to work off the damages ATMY HOUSE. He's like a disease Ican't get rid of.

(pauses for air)Anyway, what about you? I'm sorry,I'm probably wrecking the magic ofyour first game. Are you ready?

BRONWYNI think so. I mean, I am a littlenervous...

LUCYDon't worry - you'll be fine.

The girls pull into the school's parking lot.

CUT TO:

INT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - BAND ROOM - BRONWYN POV

From Bronwyn's perspective, we walk into the crowded bandroom, and shades of Rose seeing the Titanic for the firsttime, the audience gets a band room in full swing before aFriday night home game. The room is littered with secretpal gifts, candy, and uniforms. The Guard girls carefullyapply make-up, people noodle on instruments, and variousmusic plays from stereos creating a cacophony of teenagebanditude. Could be switched up to Zack Snyder '300' style.

We continue on Bronwyn's POV which looks towards thepercussion room, the VIP section, members-only enclave wherethe drummers (and some of the groupies) hang out pre-game.She watches as Lucy is greeted by the upperclassmen.

TOMCan I borrow her for a few minutes?

The tenor players winks, and Lucy and Tom disappear fromsight.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM - DUSK

Montage / music video style as band marches down to thefield and plays through the National Anthem. As Lucyshuffles up to the stands with her bass drum and looksacross to where the football players are warming up,singling out one particular player in particular.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM - NIGHT

11.

The third quarter winds down and Lucy sits in the Guardsection of the stands with an appropriately bedazzled Gina andMandy. They watch the game with interest.

GINAFirst game of our senior year.

MANDYIt's weird, I never thought wewould get here.

LUCY(grumbles)

Hopefully, we'll survive theseason.

GINAWhat's got you in such anoptimistic mood?

They pause and watch as Wes successfully kicks a field goal.The ball sails through the uprights and the crowd cheersenthusiastically.

ANNOUNCER (V.O.)From across the pond, let's give around of applause for newcomer WesMallinson for his first ForrestHills field goal.

The crowd continues their applause.

LUCYActually, it's that guy.

MANDYYou saw him again?

LUCYYeah, Prince Charming out theredecided to wake me up today.

GINAThat guy was in YOUR ROOM?!

Other members of the marching band look up with interest,while Lucy rolls her eyes.

LUCYUnfortunately, yes.

MANDY

12.

So, what does Sam think of yourstalker?

LUCYOh, um, he's cool with it. So, itlooks like it's the end of thequarter, I'd better get back to theLine.

Mandy and Gina share a look while their friend walks away.

INT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE - DAY

Lucy walks into the kitchen, grabs a yogurt from the fridgeand sits down at the table, next to her mom BECKY, acharming woman in her 40's, who is reading the newspaper.

LUCYSo, Mom?

BECKYYes, honey?

LUCYMaybe it would've been nice if youasked me yesterday about Wes.

BECKYWhat do you mean?

LUCYWell, for all you know he could'vebeen some crazy psycho who doesn'teven go to my school.

BECKYThat's ridiculous - I recognizedhim from the paper - they did anarticle on him last week.

LUCYAnd so that makes him okay for himto become our indentured servant?

BECKYI figured with his citizenship andbeing on the football team, hewouldn't have time to work legally. Plus, it will be an excellentlesson in integrity for Craig.

LUCY

13.

(stabs her yogurt cup)Hmph.

BECKYI don't see what you're getting sobothered about anyway. You don'thave to see him.

LUCY(mutters something underher breath)

Fine.

BECKY(folds the newspaper andstands)

If you want to avoid Wes, be sureand find something to do tomorrowafternoon.

LUCYThanks for the advice.

INT. LUCY'S ROOM - NIGHT

Lucy is chatting with Sam on video chat. Based on the amountof wrappers, notebooks, and time on the clock, it's obviousthey've been chatting for awhile.

SAM...So, I've been thinking aboutwhat we said when I left forschool.

LUCYWhat's that?

SAMAbout the whole being honest thing. Damnit, I wish I could be there.

LUCYI know.

SAM (sighs loudly)

I don't know, I'm not sure if thewhole long distance thing is reallyworking out like we thought itwould.

LUCYYou're...you're right. I'm not

14.

sure either.

SAMI mean, it's not someone else.

LUCY(too quickly)

Me either.

SAMI don't think it's fair to eitherof us...to go on like this.

LUCYYou're right.

SAMYou know I'll always love you,right Lucy?

LUCYOf course.

SAM(chuckling)

And of course, dating any girlafter you is going to be a lottamer than what I'm used to.

LUCYHey now, you were worth all of it. You know that.

(yawning)Oh... Crap, but yeah, I'm actuallykind of tired.

SAMSo, it's okay?

LUCYI think so. Good night, Sam.

SAMSweet dreams, Luce.

FADE OUT:

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE

Lucy sits on a porch swing, in tears. Wes, doing hispenance, shuts off the lawn mower and comes around thecorner - sweaty, shirtless, channeling his inner Zac Efron.

15.

LUCY(wiping her nose loudly)

You always seem to catch me at mybest, don't you?

WES(sits down next to her,keeping his space)

Are you taking Man U's loss as hardas I am?

LUCY(gives him a watery smile)

No.

WESWhat's wrong then?

LUCYWhy do you care?

WESFine, I can't seem to win with you.

He makes a move to leave.

LUCYDon't. I'm sorry. It's just, Ibroke up with my boyfriend lastnight, er, this morning...

WESBugger.

LUCYYou ain't kidding.

WESThe bloke from the pictures?

LUCY(nods)

You would think, even though I knewthis day was coming, it wouldn't beso bad, but it still sucks.

They swing quietly for a moment.

LUCY(cont'd)

I'm just surprised neither of usfought harder for it. I mean,

16.

we're both pretty strong willedpeople...

WESSometimes relationships just end. It happens. It's no one's fault.

A beat.

LUCYSounds like you're speaking fromexperience. Did you leave someonein the UK?

WESI wish.

LUCYOh... Your parents?

WESYeah. It happened a few yearsback, but I've had to accept it.

LUCYAnd here I am bitching about someyear long high school thing.

WESNo, I mean, you have a right to besad.

LUCYSo, really, you didn't leave anyoneat home?

WESI know this might be difficult tobelieve, but it's a littledifferent over there.

LUCYHow so?

WESFor starters, I went to an all boysschool.

LUCYPoor guy.

WESYeah, so, it's been a bit of an

17.

adjustment.

LUCYWell, I don't think you have toworry. I'm pretty sure there areplenty of girls who would like toshow you around.

Of course, there's only one girl he wants to show him around,and she's sitting right next to him.

WESYeah...

LUCYOkay, time for me to go forreinforcements. Mandy. Gina. Ben.Jerry.

Lucy stands up and Wes awkwardly joins her.

LUCYUmm, so thanks for listening. You're not the jock I thought youwere.

WESThanks, I guess. Anyway, you'll beall right.

Forgetting he isn't wearing a shirt, Wes wraps Lucy in arather intimate hug, which goes a beat longer than it should.

INT. THRIFT STORE - DAY

Lucy and Tom work their way through an eclectic thriftstore, occaisionally pulling clothes from the racks.

TOMSo, you're officially on themarket?

LUCYIt's not like that, but yes, Iguess I'm officially single. Anyway, I survived seventeen yearswithout Wes in my life, so I'mpretty sure I'll be okay.

TOM(raises his eyebrows)

Wes? Don't you mean Sam?

18.

LUCYThat's what I said.

TOM(wisely ignoring theFreudian slip)

How about this one?

He holds up a particularly offensive dress.

LUCYI like the one from the videobetter.

They continue walking.

LUCY(cont'd)

Enough about me, what about you? How long has it been since youdated someone?

TOMYou don't need to worry about me.

LUCYReally? Whatever happened with youand that sophomore flute playerfrom band camp?

TOMNothing. Anyway, dating bandmembers is starting to feel, Idon't know, incestuous. I think itmight be time for a change.

LUCYWhatever floats your boat.

TOMSeriously, on to more importantmatters. How exactly we'replanning to get these on the field?

LUCYWhen we're lining up backfield, Ithought we would just take off ouruniforms.

TOM(grins and nods)

Stripping? Perfect! This is goingto be the best senior prank ever.

19.

Lucy pulls a dress out of a rack.

LUCYSweet - this is it!

TOMThey aren't going to know what hitthem on Friday night.

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE (SAME DAY)

Lucy jumps out of Tom's minivan. Wes is in the front yard,trimming the hedges. He stops and looks up as Lucy comes upthe path - a shopping bag in her arms.

WESWhat's in the bag?

LUCYNone of your business.

WESSomething going on with you andTom?

LUCYAlso, none of your business.

WESWhen will it be my business?

LUCY(flirtatiously)

When I decide it will.

WESHow can I help my cause, fair lady?

LUCY(considers)

Prove that you want to learnsomething more about me, then we'lltalk.

WESCan you give me a hint?

LUCYYou seem like a smart enough guy,I'm sure you'll figure somethingout eventually.

20.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM - BACKFIELD

Lucy and Tom stand in line with the rest of the drummers. Then, with no explanation, they begin taking their uniformsoff to reveal vaguely matching 'swing dance outfits.' TheLine only has time to gawk before FRED, the Drum Major, tweetson his whistle.

BILLYWhat in the hell are you guysdoing?

Tom and Lucy share a smile as the marching band marches outinto opening set.

It isn't until after the drum solo that the prank becomesapparent. Lucy and Tom peel out of formation, throw theirinstruments down, and begin dancing a choreographed routine tothe big band tunes the instrumentalists are playing.

Positioned close to midfield, Lucy does a double take as sherecognizes a familiar uniformed figure on the track - it'sWes! He's skipped the halftime locker room session to watchthe show.

Their unscheduled dance is an instant hit with the crowd, whoresponds accordingly. As the song comes to an end, Tom dipsLucy dramatically and then they scramble to put their drumsback on and get back in formation.

LUCY(panting)

I can't believe we did that.

TOMNeither can I. Izzo's going tokill us.

Somehow they manage to finish the show. As Fred brings hishands down, while still on the field, the rest of the Lineinstantly erupts into conversation about their section matesprank.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM - BAND SECTION

MR. IZZO, the band director, paces back and forth in frontof the seniors, both with anxious expressions on theirfaces.

MR. IZZOWould either of you two like totell me what that was back there?

21.

TOMWe thought we could improve theshow.

LUCY(elbowing Tom sharply)

It was just the one time, sir. Some sort of misguided seniorprank.

MR. IZZOI wish you would've come to mefirst.

TOMWhy?

MR. IZZOI actually think it's a great idea. We could've done more toincorporate it into the show.

(pauses)Now, I should probably give youboth detention...

TOMBut--

MR. IZZOLet me finish. I think it could bea nice addition. I know a lot ofmarching bands have done the wholeBig Band thing before, but I thinkyour choreography adds somethingextra. Let's break it down nextTuesday and see how we canpermanently add it. What do yousay?

LUCY(before Tom can sayanything stupid)

We'd be happy to.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM

The football team comes out of the locker room appropriatelypumped for the second half. Wes stands awkwardly and isn'tsurprised when the Coach approaches him.

COACHWould you like to explain where inthe hell you've been for the past

22.

half hour?

WESNot really.

COACH(taken back)

I don't know how things are donewhere you come from, but on thisside of the pond we have a littlething called discipline. You'regoing to pay for this little stunton Monday. I hope it was worth it.

WES(looks across to the bandsection)

Yes, sir.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM - BAND SECTION

Lucy and Tom are greeted as celebrities in the band section.

GINAWhen did you put that together?

LUCYActually, Tom took a swing classover the summer. When we startedlearning the show, it was just acrazy idea. We've been practicingfor about two weeks.

MANDYWhat did Izzo say?

LUCYThat's the weird thing - he lovedit and wants to use it permanentlyin the show.

MANDYThat's awesome!

LUCY(motions to her swingdress)

All I know is, I finally get to earsomething besides polyester!


Lucy goes out to her car to dig out something and bumps into

23.

Wes in the garage.

LUCYGood morning.

WESCongratulations on a great show.

LUCYThanks...

The conversation stalls as Lucy isn't sure what to say abouthis appearance last night. He pulls gloves on and moves thelawn mower outside.

LUCYI'm sorry. I should tell you Iappreciate your support. What didyou think?

WESIt was...well, it was prettyamazing. However, I didn't thinkthere would be...dancing.

LUCYYeah, that was kind of a lateaddition by Tom and me.

WESYou guys were good.

Lucy looks like she wants to say something else, but hercell phone trills and she looks at it.

LUCYI have to take this.

(pauses)Thanks again for being there.

EXT. MARCHING BAND PRACTICE FIELD - DAY

Lucy and Gina walk up to find the marching band gathered nearthe drum major podium. Mr. Izzo is on top of it.

MR. IZZOWell, I'm sure you all noticed the'addition' to the show on Friday...

LUCY(whispering to Gina)

I know he is NOT going to pass thisoff as his own.

24.

MR. IZZOI didn't tell all of you, because Iwasn't sure I wanted to go forwardwith things. However, based on thecrowd's reaction, I decided toofficially incorporate thechoreography into the halftimeshow.

The marching band erupts into appropriate applause.

MR. IZZOFurthermore, I'd also like toannounce that I have formallyaccepted our attendance to theState marching festival. As someof you seniors will remember, thistrip is only reserved for our mostcompetitive years. As you seniorsare also aware, this will be anovernight trip. We'll be passingout permission slips andinformation after practice today.

An even larger cheer comes from the crowd.

MR. IZZOThis is our chance to make somepeople notice. Alright,sectionals. Captains, please runthe closer. We've got a lot ofpracticing ahead of us.

Tom finds Lucy and they walk to where the rest of the drumline is forming an arc.

TOMNo pressure on us, right?

LUCYNone.

TOMSo, I was thinking we could do afew things to improve our part.

LUCYWhat did you have in mind?

EXT. MARCHING BAND PRACTICE FIELD - DAY

The band is in the middle of a complicated set, running the

25.

show, when Lucy goes up for an aerial. Tom misses the catchand she goes down - hard. Everyone crowds around.

LUCYYeah, yeah, I'm fine.

Tom gives her a hand to get up, which she begrudginglyaccepts.

LUCYOwww...

MR. IZZOEveryone take five. Someone go gether some ice.

Lucy limps over and sits on the ground at the sidelines. Thesenior members of the drum line crowd around.

J.D.Who's got $10 the size of thebruise tomorrow is as big as atrumpet horn?

Lucy shoots him a murderous look.

J.D.You get 10%.

LUCYI'll allow it.

Their classmates start shouting out bets.

INT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - HALLWAY

Lucy and JEWEL, an attractive member of the cheerleading squad(in uniform), walk out of a classroom talking.

LUCYHow'd you do on the quiz?

JEWELDecent. How about you?

LUCYOkay, I think.

JEWELHey - I wanted to tell you, theshow looks great this year - plus,great routine!

26.

LUCYReally? Uh, thanks?

JEWELI've always wanted to learn how toswing dance.

LUCYWell, it was mostly Tom's idea. Imean, he took lessons this summerand everything.

JEWEL(interested)

Really?

LUCY(picking up on thesubtlety)

I'm sure I could get him to teachyou - you know, if you wanted.

JEWELDo you think it will be a big deal?

LUCYNot at all, let me talk to him andmaybe I can introduce you guysafter some practice soon. Soundgood?

JEWELThanks!

Jewel walks off down the hall, while Lucy continues to herlocker. Tom is waiting for her.

TOMHow's your ass?

LUCYBruised and swollen, no thanks toyou.

TOMYou're welcome.

Lucy slams her locker door shut and they continue walkingtogether.

LUCYSo, you know Jewel?

27.

TOMBranscombe?

LUCYYup. Funny thing came up inconversation.

TOMWhat's that?

LUCYYou. Interested?

TOMMaybe.

LUCYMaybe I can introduce the two ofyou.

TOMMaybe I'm perfectly capable ofasking out girls on my own, thankyou.

LUCYJust trying to be a friend.

TOMAnyone you want me to return thefavor with?

We see Lucy look across the hall to where Wes is standing withsome of the jocks from the football team. She shakes her headviolently.

LUCY(bluffing wildly)

Actually, yes. I'm looking forsomeone to set Molly up with.

TOMHow about Wes?

LUCY(her voice pitches higher)

Really? You think so?

TOMIs there someone else you thinkhe'd look good with?

LUCY

28.

What? No.

TOM(giving her a not sogentle push)

Then what are you waiting for? youguys are friends now, right?

LUCY(grumbling to herself)

Fine.

She crosses the busy hallway and approaches Wes, who lookshappy to see her.

LUCYSo... I was wondering if I couldset you up on a blind date.

WESExplain.

LUCYWell, um, since I haven't been thenicest to you, I thought the leastI could do is find you an amazinggirl at this school.

WESThat sounds...nice.

LUCY(attempts an awkwardsalute)

Well, I'm going to get startedthen.

EXT. FORREST HILLS PRACTICE FIELD

Lucy, carrying her bass drum, helps her friend MOLLY steer alarge marimba down to the practice field.

LUCY(laughing)

Remember that time we almost ranover Nick with this thing freshmanyear?

MOLLYHe almost died. Wow, we didn'tknow anything back then, did we?

LUCY

29.

Some days I'm not sure if I'velearned anything from then or not.

MOLLYIs this because of things with Sam?

LUCYNo, surprisingly, I'm okay. Anyway, how are things with you? Any guys in your life?

MOLLYBesides the 30 or so we'resurrounded by? None specifically.

LUCYHow about a set up?

Molly continues to push the giant instrument along.

MOLLYWho do you possibly know that Idon't know?

LUCYHey - this is Lucy Karate you'retalking to. I'm allowed to havesurprises.

MOLLYFine, as long as it's not Tom, I'mwilling to take a chance.

INT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE

Lucy is studying at the kitchen table.

BECKYThat car is not going to cleanitself.

Lucy closes her book in frustration and stands up.

LUCYI told you, Mom, my car has a nameand that name is Matt Damon.

BECKYWell, Mr. Damon had better becleaned inside and out, or he willbe parked in the driveway for thenext two weekends. Am I clear?

30.

LUCY(grabs her keys)

Yes, Mom.


Lucy, clad in a bikini top and shorts, dances around towhatever song is blasting from her iPod while she hurls acollection of papers, music, and other random junk from thebackseat of the car into a big pile on the nearby grass.

Wes, finishing some gardening task, comes around the cornerand smiles when he sees Lucy, lost in the music. He beginswalking towards her.

Lucy pauses for a moment when she sees Wes's reflection in thecar. Without thinking, she grabs the nearby garden hose andturns it on him full blast.

Wes is utterly stunned while Lucy whoops with laughter. Hergiggles are short lived, however, as Wes retaliates by pickingup the nearby bucket of soapy water and chucking it on her -landing a direct hit and leaving Lucy speechless - but onlyfor a moment. She squirts back and they begin chasing eachother around the car.

Finally, Wes grabs hold of a very slippery Lucy and pins heragainst the car.

The atmosphere instantly changes from innocent fun to revvedup sexual tension. Wes holds her close, slowly moves adripping piece of hair from her eyes and lowers his head...

CRAIGWes!!

Wes and Lucy spring apart.

CRAIG(oblivious to what he hasinterrupted)

My mom wanted to know if you wantedsome lemonade.

WESThat would be nice...

(he turns to ask Lucy)Do you want some?

Lucy has disappeared, unable to cope with what almosthappened.

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSEHOLD

31.

Sometime later in the day, Lucy sneaks back out to her car. Obviously upset, she quickly disposes of the sopping pile ofpapers and glumly moves to dry her car.

INT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

Lucy puts on a brave face and walks up to link arms with Wes. Determined that the almost kiss was a fluke, she moves boldlyahead.

WESYes?

LUCYI was just going to tell you aboutyour blind date on Saturday.

WESReally?

CUT TO:

Dream sequence of some completely magical date with amystery girl who looks suspiciously like Lucy and Wes.

CUT TO:

Back to the hallway.

LUCYSo, that's the plan. I'll tell heryou'll pick her up at 7?

WES(distracted)

Sounds good.

LUCYMaybe I can hear all about it whenyou come over to rake leaves onSunday?

She walks away before he has a chance to answer.

EXT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - STADIUM (NIGHT)

Lucy approaches Molly during one of the stands songs. Theysqueeze in between two of the snare drummers.

LUCYYou ready for that blind date?

32.

MOLLYWhat's the rush?

LUCYNo reason, I just thought withHomecoming around the corner, ifthings work out, maybe you twocould go together. You know, ifthings work out... Anyway, call meon Sunday and let me know how itgoes.

Lucy pulls a camera out, and continues beinguncharacteristically and nervously chatty.

LUCYOkay, time to lean in - I have likezero pictures from our seniorseason so far.

She snaps a few of Molly and nearby Billy, the drum lineCaptain, then moves over to the tenor section, and sits downnext to Tom, but not before taking a picture of him playinghis instrument and making an appropriately goofy face.

TOMYes?

LUCYWhat? Does a girl need a reasonto sit next to her favorite quintplayer?

TOMIn your case, yes. What's up withyou?

LUCY(defensively)

Nothing. Anyway, you would beproud of me.

TOMWhy's that?

LUCYJust call me Cupid.

TOMI meant to tell you thank you, bythe way. I'm hanging out withJewel tomorrow night...

33.

They look down at the track in front of the student sectionwhile Jewel waves up shyly.

LUCYReally?

TOMDon't sound too surprised, Luce,I'm actually quite a catch.

LUCYI'm not, I just...

TOMWhat? A band geek and acheerleader? Don't get ahead ofyourself, we're only talking aboutdinner. I'm fairly certain theHomecoming Princess down theredoesn't know what she's gettinginto with me.

LUCYWell, you won't be the only coupledefying the conventions of highschool.

TOMYou and Wes?

LUCY(looks at Tom strangely)

No. Molly and Wes are going outtomorrow night.

TOMWhere does that leave you?

LUCY(doesn't know how toanswer)

I'd better get back to my bass.


It's the day after The Date. Lucy is still trying to convinceherself that she doesn't have feelings for Wes. She walks outthe front door wearing a ratty old band shirt and trackshorts, preparing to go for a run. She practically falls overWes on the front porch.

LUCYOh, hey, I didn't see you there.

34.

He raises an eyebrow, but sits down next to her as she lacesher shoes.

WESYou know, you should considerselling your services to the ladsat Forrest hills - that was anexcellent date.

LUCY(blushing)

Thanks.

Although she's desperate to know every detail of the date, sherefrains from asking.

LUCY(lamely)

Well, I'm going for a run then. See you around.

FLASH TO:

EXT. RESIDENCE - MOLLY'S HOUSE (PREVIOUS NIGHT)

Wes and Molly stand close, but it's obvious there's no 'spark'between them.

WESThat was fun, we should do it againsome time.

MOLLYThat sounds great.

Neither means what they are saying.

CUT TO:


Wes watches Lucy literally runs away, and shakes his head.

INT. COMMONS AREA

Lucy and Molly sit with the rest of the drummers at lunch.

LUCYHey.

MOLLYHey - sorry I didn't call you back

35.

yesterday.

LUCYNo worries. So?

MOLLYIt was...nice.

MARK(interrupts)

Did you get some?

LUCYShut up, Mark.

MOLLYHe kissed me good night.

MARKHigh five for getting some!

Molly and Mark share a high five - it's the only way to getMark to shut up. Lucy wants to ask for further details, butthe moment is over.

INT. SCHOOL BUS - DAY

Lucy sits next to Tom, reviewing pictures from the previousweek.

TOMWent a little overboard, did we?

LUCYHey, we're halfway through oursenior season! I had to capturesome memories.

TOMHmm...

LUCYWhat?

TOMLook.

Lucy peers at the screen - it's a happy snapshot of Mollyand Billy.

LUCYSo what? We have one just like it.

36.

TOMThis doesn't strike you as kind ofodd?

LUCYI'm sure it's just flirting.

TOM(gives her a skepticallook)

Luce, we've been around these twofor four years. What if they doactually like each other?

Lucy does not want to come to terms that she has forced Wesand Molly together - even at her own expense.

LUCY(obviously changing thesubject)

Shouldn't you be running the showwith your section? We're competingin a few hours.

TOMShouldn't you be doing the samething?

EXT. WARM UP AREA - MARCHING BAND COMPETITION

The members of the Forrest Hills band are in various stages ofwarming up. The mood is completely different than the halftime show. Everyone has their game faces on. Tom and Lucy gothrough their choreography. Their original uniforms have been'upgraded' by some fanatical band parents with a Bedazzler.

LUCYIt was different at the games,wasn't it?

TOMYup.

LUCYWe're going to do fine, right?

TOMWould I let you down?

LUCYLiterally or figuratively?

LUCY

37.

Very funny.

TOMSeriously. Let's show these judgeswhat we can do. Just consider thispractice for the big competition ina few weeks.

EXT. MARCHING COMPETITION

Montage / music video of highlights from the performance, andthe following and successful awards ceremony. It's ForrestHills for the win! Captions and Sweepstakes!

INT. BAND ROOM

The drummers sit quietly as they listen intently to judgestapes with serious. The tape should sound authentic, as if itwas recorded from the field.

JUDGE #1 (V.O.)...clean up that last lick tenors,and well what's this? Bass 2 andTenor 1 are going to give us ashow? A little gimmicky, but let'ssee what you can do.

We hear the reaction of the crowd as Tom and Lucy go throughtheir intricate steps.

JUDGE #1I'll cut you some slack since therest of the Line is riding cymbals,but let's finish up and get youback on the drums.

When the tape ends, Billy stands up.

BILLYAlright guys, he's given us somestuff to work on, so let's get toit. Sectionals for the rest ofclass. We've got the bigcompetition in two weeks and I knowwe can win the High Percussiontrophy.

INT. FORREST HILLS - HALLWAY - SAME DAY

Lucy walks out and practically into Wes. They can't seem toavoid each other.

LUCY

38.

So, how's it going?

WESGood.

LUCYSo, I heard you were thinking ofgoing out with Molly again?

WESUmm... I was considering it.

LUCYWell, you know Homecoming is comingup.

WES(obviously has no cluethis is a major event onthe social calendar)

So?

LUCY(beyond awkward)

Oh, I was merely commenting that itis coming up. I just thought youshould know.

Wes gives her a strange look, and Lucy ducks into herclassroom, mortified she cannot properly function.

INT. CLASSROOM - CONT'D

Lucy, after her sad attempt at a normal conversation with Wes,stumbles into a class she shares with Mandy and Gina. Onelook on her face and her friends swarm her.

GINAWhat gives, Luce?

Lucy puts her head in her hands and doesn't look up as shebegins talking.

LUCYI used to think I knew what I wasdoing.

Over Lucy's bowed head, the girls share a look. In a gestureof affection, Mandy begins stroking her friend's hair.

MANDYAre you talking about your giantcrush on Wes?

39.

LUCY(peeks up from hands)

Is it that obvious?

GINALook, I know we've been busy thisseason with our sections, but Idon't think we'd be able to callourselves friends if we didn'trecognize you are carrying anOlympic sized torch for thefootball team's hottest player.

LUCYBut I've messed everything up!

GINAHow?

LUCYI've kind of avoided mentioningthis to you - but I sort of set upMolly and Wes.

MANDYAnd why exactly would you do that?

LUCYI honestly could not tell you.

Gina and Mandy probably know the real reason, but both aretoo nice to actually admit it.

GINADo you think she really likes him?

LUCY (V.O.)Who wouldn't? What am I going todo? Just go up to her and be all'remember how I set you up on thatunbelievably romantic date? Yeah,well, it so happens I really likethe guy I pushed you towards, so ifyou could just be a buddy and notdate him anymore, that would begreat. By the way, while we'rehaving this fictional conversation,can you give me your blessing todate him, because I have a ragingcrush that refuses to die!'

GINA

40.

Okay, probably not the bestapproach, but you should talk toboth of them...before you end uptotally resenting her...and him.

LUCYI'll think about it.

Further discussion is halted as the late bell rings, and theseniors settle into their seats.

MANDYIt'll work out. Anyway, rememberthis weekend is the overnightcompetition. Anything can happen.

(Insert funny and random dream sequence here??)

INT. LUCY'S CAR - DAY

Lucy is once again driving like a lunatic through thestreets of Forrest Hills.

LUCYOf the days to be f---

(she beeps the horn tosound out the expletive)

late!!!

INT. FORREST HILLS COMMONS AREA

The entire marching band is gathered at perfect attentionwhile their band director addresses them.

MR. IZZOSo, I know that later today we'regoing against some of the bestbands in the region and the state,but I don't think that shouldaffect our playing. I know we'redoing a show that many judges haveseen before, but the reason we'regoing is because all the elementsof our version make it unique.Concentrate on the notes, yourdrill, and I think the ForrestHills High School marching band isgoing to take a lot of people bysurprise!

Cheers sound through the Commons area - the band is ready tomake this day theirs.

41.

MR. IZZOOne band!

ENTIRE BANDONE SOUND!!!

The group disperses enthusiastically towards the buses. Lucysneaks in as everyone leaves. She pairs up with Mandy andGina, catching up on what she's missed, when one of the bandparents approaches her.

MRS. WYATTLucy, dear, I need you for amoment.

LUCYSee you girls on the bus.

(she turns her attentionto the adult in front ofher)

Yes?

MRS. WYATT(her voice drips withsarcasm and falsesincerity)

Well, I'm sorry, but it seems Idon't have your signed permissionslip. I don't think you'll be ableto join us today.

CUT TO:

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM - PREVIOUS SEASON

Lucy is verbally assaulting a majorette. We can't see exactlywhat she is saying, but her body language is intense.

LUCY (V.O.)I wasn't exactly Mrs. Wyatt's bestfriend. Late last season herprecious daughter, a majorette,decided to break the heart of oneof my cymbal players and well, theLine takes care of their own. Eversince then, she's kind of had itout for me.

CUT TO:


LUCY

42.

(lying smoothly)Really? I'm sure I turned it inlast week.

CUT TO:

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE (FLASHBACK)

Post interaction with Wes, Lucy throws out a bunch of papers -including the permission slip.

CUT TO:


MRS. WYATTNo, dear, I don't think you did. According to school rules, nostudent can leave the premiseswithout signed permission fromtheir parents or guardian.

LUCYBut...Tom and I are the feature...

(in disbelief)It's my senior year.

MRS. WYATTI know and I'm so sorry I didn'tcatch this earlier.

LUCY(slightly under herbreath)

I'm sure you are.

MRS. WYATTIf you can just have your parentssign...

CUT TO:

INT. LUCY'S PARENTS CAR

Lucy's parents and brother, heading a soccer tournament. Theypass a 'You've Just Entered' sign for another state.

CUT TO:


LUCYThey can give you verbal

43.

permission.

MRS. WYATTNo, sorry, it has to be theoriginal signature - you know, forlegal purposes.

LUCYSo, you're telling me I can't geton the bus until I have my parentssignature?

MRS. WYATTYes. And given the late notice, Iwill call them to follow up.

With the daunting task ahead of her, Lucy springs into action. She snaps up the new permission slip, sweeps through the areawith her uniform and catches a surprised Tom.

LUCYI'll be there - do NOT performwithout me! I'll explain later -promise.

INT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE

Lucy paces rapidly through the deserted house, and finallysettles in front of her laptop. She speaks rapidly on thephone.

LUCYMom - hey - um, would you lie forme?

Becky answers.

LUCY...so, long story short, if youcould just tell Mrs. Wyatt yousigned my permission slip, then mysenior year won't be a total wasteof time.

Becky answers.

LUCYThanks Mom, you're the best. I'llcall you when I get there - Ipromise. Tell Craig I said goodluck.

While she's on the phone, Lucy has been madly typing in

44.

directions on the computer. The nearby printer spits out aset of directions to the competition.

LUCYSuccess!

She jumps up and heads outside.

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE DRIVEWAY

Lucy puts her keys in the ignition. The car refuses to crankup. The engine won't turn over. Lucy bangs on the wheel infrustration and tries again. Tears threaten to spill down herface.

Suddenly, there is a tap on her window, causing Lucy to yelp. It's Wes! She rolls down her window.

LUCYWhat are you doing here?

Sensing she needs some air, he opens the door for her and shegets out.

WESIt's my last weekend helping out. Your mom gave me a set of keys.

(he looks closely at her)What's wrong? Are you okay?

LUCYOkay? Okay?! Let's see, thebiggest competition in my marchingcareer is already going on and I'mnowhere near it. My car's brokendown, my parents are in anotherstate, and I'm going to let a lotof people down if I don't leave,oh, five minutes ago. I am mostdefinitely NOT okay.

A beat.

WESWhat about if I take you?

LUCYYou would do that?

WESWhy not? I haven't seen a lot ofthe country yet - this is a perfectopportunity.

45.

LUCYThen let's go.

The pair waste no time, shifting Lucy's stuff from her brokendown car to Wes's.

INT. WES'S CAR - LATER THAT DAY

LUCYAre you sure we have enough gas?

WESYou mean petrol?

LUCY(punches his arm lightly)

You know what I mean!

WESAnd what did I tell you?

LUCY(pouting)

You told me that we'd be fine.

WES(in a soothing tone)

So, what's this competition allabout? I mean, you guys already doa great job at the games.

LUCY(laughing)

No offense, but the halftime showon Friday night is basicallyanother form of practice for us.

WES(not understanding)

Oh...

LUCYTonight, we're competing againstother marching bands from acrossthe state to have the bestperformance - the most technically and musically demanding show. Allthe sections have to come together.

WESSounds...kind of cool. I didn't

46.

know that's what you were allworking towards.

LUCYYou should stay and watch. Youknow, make this drive worth it...

To Wes, time well spent with Lucy has already been worth it.

LUCY(oblivious)

So, in addition to competing forthe best band, we also can getawards in each individual section. It's a big honor and supercompetitive.

WESWhat time do you guys go on?

LUCYSeven.

WESThat might put me back too late. You know, curfew and all.

LUCY(blurts out)

You can stay with me.

Once the words are out, she can't take them back.

LUCYI mean, it wouldn't be just me. Gina and Mandy will also be in theroom. The whole band is stayingovernight. It's not like they'regoing to notice one more teenager.

WESCouldn't you get into a lot oftrouble?

LUCYI don't really care.

WESLet me think about it.

Lucy begins tapping nervously on her knee.

WES

47.

What's wrong now?

LUCYIt's getting late. I shouldprobably go ahead and change intomy uniform.

WESWell, just get in the back seat. Iwon't look.

Lucy punches him.

WESWhat was that for?

LUCYDude, I'm in an all guy section, Iknow what that look means.

WESLet's consider a few looks payment.

Lucy rolls her eyes, but doesn't answer and climbs awkwardlyinto the back seat of Wes's car. Wes turns up the radio andglances frequently into his rear view mirror while Lucysomehow manages to get into her dress. She climbs back up tothe front seat.

LUCYZip me up?

WESSure thing.

He drives the car with his knee and manages to get Lucy zippedin. There is another moment of heightened tension, which isbroken as Lucy points to the exit.

LUCYThis is it! We're here!

As Wes pulls off the highway and into parking lot, he looksaround and sees more marching bands than he ever thoughtexisted. The campus is literally swarming with high schoolband students. The atmosphere is charged.

LUCYSo, um, if you do want to stay,well, you can just give me a callor something.

WES

48.

I'll stay on one condition.

LUCY(surprised)

What's that?

WESYou join me on the football field.

LUCYWhat? For a game?

WESNo. For a lesson in real football.

LUCY(considers)

Deal.

Before either has time to realize they've more or lesssomething that could be considered a date, Lucy's phone rings. She picks up.

LUCYWhere are you guys? Okay, I thinkI see where that is. I'll be therein just a few minutes.

Lucy turns her attention to Wes. She looks at him and leansin to kiss his cheek.

LUCYSo, thanks for everything--

Wes slams on the brakes to avoid hitting a Guard member whowalks in front of the car. Lucy's well intentioned 'thank youpeck' lands squarely on Wes's mouth. Neither has time toreact as they embrace passionately. Neither seems to want tostop until Lucy's phone rings again. She tears herself awayand looks at the ID.

LUCYCrap! That's Tom.

Without another word, she grabs her stuff and sprints out ofthe car.

CUT TO:

EXT. PARKING LOT - FHHS EQUIPMENT TRUCK

Lucy marches up confidently to Mrs. Wyatt, who lookscompletely floored to see her.

49.

LUCYHere's your f---

(a trumpet player blaresloudly)

Form. Now, if you'll excuse me,I'm needed at warm ups.

Spinning on her heel, she heads towards the bus and sees Tom.

TOMI was beginning to wonder when youwould show up.

Tom crosses and sweeps her into a hug.

TOM(whispering in her ear)

You had me worried.

Lucy presses closer and murmurs back.

LUCYYou didn't think I would let myfavorite quint player down, didyou?

TOMHey - I knew you would be here,you're just cutting it close,that's all.

The pair are suddenly glomped by the rest of the bass line whopractically dogpile each other in a group hug. After breakingit up, Mark crosses his arms.

MARKY'know, I don't think Mrs. Wyatt isever going to mess with us again.

LUCYWhy's that?

Mandy and Gina, in their Guard and Majorette outfits (fullglitter and make up) walk up to join the impromptu reunion.

GINA(shrugs)

Let's just say we had some extratime on the bus... It was a teameffort, really.

MARK

50.

There's a new cadence. I don'twant to ruin the surprise, but theverbal cue is, 'Mrs. Wyatt is aBitch.'

LUCYNice. Now, if you'll excuse me, Ineed a bathroom or I'm not going tomake it through the show.

Gina and Mandy follow their friend.

MANDYWhat took you so long to get here?

LUCYI made out with Wes!

The girls look at each other with confused expressions ontheir faces. This is obviously not the answer they wereexpecting.

GINAWhat?! When?!

LUCYSo, I went home to get directionsand ask my mom to 'sign' thepermission form for me, but then mycar wouldn't start.

MANDYWes was there?

GINAApparently. Look at her, she'sglowing.

LUCYAnyway, so he offered to drive meout here, which reminds me, I needto ask you girls a favor...

EXT. MARCHING COMPETITION

Wes, a bit bewildered, wanders near where the Pit is settingup. Molly recognizes him.

MOLLYWhat are you doing here?

WESUmm, Lucy's car broke down, so I

51.

gave her a ride.

MOLLYAre you going to stay and watch theshow?

WESYeah, I was thinking about it.

MOLLYWell, come say hi after we finish.

INT. BATHROOM

Lucy and the girls are checking their reflections in themirror.

LUCYSo, what do you think?

She makes eye contact with the reflections.

MANDYYou do realize that if we pull thisoff, we'll be legends, right?

LUCYThe way I figure it, is that withthe competitions over, we reallyhave nothing to lose.

GINAThan let Operation Union Jackcommence!

LUCYOkay, let's save the fun for later. It's time to warm up.

CUT TO:

EXT. WARM UP AREA

The drum line is gathered in the warm up arc. Everyone isserious, no smiles, only pure concentration. Tom and Lucystand out because of their costumes, but everyone else wearstheir uniforms. Henry, their instructor, stands in front,moving in and out to tune everyone.

HENRYIt's been a great four seasons withyou seniors and I hope that we endtonight on a high note. I know

52.

some of the Instructors and Lineshere tonight might have scoredhigher than us before, but if youplay a clean show, I think we havea real chance at bringing home theHigh Percussion award.

(he pauses)I'm a little nostalgic, as tonightis the first class I've seen allthe way through. I'm proud ofevery single one of you.

(he makes eye contact witheveryone)

Now - let's do it up.

The Line breaks attention, and moves to join the rest of theband.

TOMCan you believe this is our lastcompetition?

LUCYLet's make it count.

EXT. STADIUM - FOOTBALL FIELD

With a few thousand band geeks, parents, and friends lookingon, the packed stadium is the perfect backdrop for the fullshow of the Forrest Hills Flyers. The announcers voice goesthrough the traditional pre-performance speech until the bandis in opening set.

Lucy looks across the field, and sees...

Mandy, the flag resting lightly against her, the clothfluttering in the breeze.

Gina, a bright smile on her face, face looking out into thecrowd, her baton resting lightly against her shoulder.

Tom, a cocky grin on his face from across the drum line arc.

The bass line, at the ready position, prepared to do battle.

Molly, calm and serene in front of the grand marimba.

Fred, at the front of the massive ensemble, standing atperfect attention.

ANNOUNCERDrum Majors, is your band ready totake the field for competition?

53.

Fred and Drew execute a smart salute and Fred runs to the drummajor podium. Everyone waits eagerly.

CUT TO:

EXT. STADIUM STANDS

Wes looks out to see the match on action.

CUT TO:


CU on Fred as he stands, looking out at the 200 hundred strongof the Forrest Hills band. He claps his hands slowly.

FREDBand, ten hut!

BANDHUT!!!!

The answer that comes roaring back is overwhelming and thecrowd cheers appreciatively.

CUT TO:


We see what Lucy and the Line sees. There is a judge right infront of them. With only a couple 'duts' as warning, the showexplodes with the opener.

Directors choice for the show. Montage? POV? Zac Snyderstyle? As we've been building towards this - it might be timeto see the performance in its entirety.

The show ends with a triumphant close and the crowd is ontheir feet. Billy taps quarter notes as they walk off thefield.


The block of Forrest Hills marching band finds a section ofthe stands to call their own and settle in during the breakbefore the awards. Everyone is still in uniform, nervious andanxious for the awards.

Lucy, trying not to be obvious, looks around nervously. HasWes stayed to watch? Will he join her tonight?

Suddenly, a familiar prescence sits down next to her. He is

54.

unnoticed the relative chaos of the crowd.

LUCYEnjoy the show?

WESI liked it fine.

They both know he's not only talking about the show.

LUCYSo, what are we going to tellMolly?

WESThe truth, I guess. Where is she,anyway?

LUCYHelping make sure the Pit equipmentis taken care of.

(a beat)How do you think she'll take it?

WESI don't know.

LUCYWhen should we tell her?

WESMonday?

LUCYMaybe you should stay out of theway until then.

Wes looks at her, sadly. They've been apart for so long. Weeks have already been wasted.

LUCY(lightly tracing a patternon his hand)

It's just that when I'm aroundyou...

WES(understanding)

That's probably a good idea.

LUCYSo, I'll--

55.

WES(at the same time)

If you...

LUCYOkay, I'll text you when the coastis clear. Keep a low profile untilthen.

Before he can respond, the announcer's voice sounds over thestadium.

ANNOUNCERWill representatives from all bandsplease report to the field?

LUCYThat's me.

WESSee you soon.

Lucy quickly finds Gina and Mandy. The three girls link armsand walk out to the field, quickly lost in the mix ofleadership from other competing bands.


Our moment of romance over, the tension builds back - willForrest Hills be winners today? If appropriate to show a fewother shows as comparison to the Forrest Hills show, probablybest to happen before the awards scene.

LUCY (V.O.)Hadn't I just been to my first bandpractice? Wasn't I still afreshman? How did I get here, tomy last competition? In the end,four years passed by in a blur andyet, I was where I was supposed tobe. Beside me, my past, mysupport.

She looks and sees her best friends standing at attention,waiting for their results to be called.

LUCY (V.O.)In the stands...my future?

Lucy's concentration is broken by a large round of applauseand the Forrest Hills band members looking expectantly at her.

TOM

56.

Lucy?

LUCYWhat?

TOMThey called our name.

LUCYReally?

Tom takes Lucy's hand and they skip towards the podium.

LUCYWhy?

TOMAome special award for our dancingability, I guess.

At the judges table, the pair are each given a medal. Tomdips Lucy in an even more elaborate way - the crowd cheers andthey return to the band. On their return, we see a largedisplay of trophies in front of the drum majors.

In the end, through some awesome creative device, ForrestHills is victorious and win Sweepstakes.

INT. HOTEL ROOM - 317

Lucy paces frantically, while Gina and Mandy primp to go jointhe rest of the award winning band outside. Two trophies,plus Lucy's medal sit prominently in the room.

LUCYSo, I'm not crazy, right? This isstill a good idea?

MANDYIf you are second guessingyourself, I will trade places withyou. He is nothing short ofdelcious.

LUCYOkay, fine, fine - now, I also needto be clear that NO ONE knows aboutthis, right? You know Mrs. Wyattis looking for a reason to get mekicked out permanently, and thiswould be the perfect excuse.

Mandy and Gina nod seriously.

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LUCYThen get out there and startcelebrating! Just remember thesecret knock when you come backthrough.

GINADon't do anything we wouldn't!

They giggle and walk out the door. Lucy pauses and looks ather cell phone.

LUCY(takes a deep breath anddials)

Room 317 - you can come up.

Although Lucy wants to portray herself as 'cool,' we get apeek into her nervous feelings as she prepares to see Wes. Short montage of trying on different outfits, primping, etc. Finally, she hears a knock on the door. Knowing anyone couldbe watching, she rushes to open it and quickly ushers Wes in.

Neither says anything.

Wes moves slowly, deliberately pushing Lucy against the walland they quickly pick up where they left off in the car.

FADE OUT:


Lucy and Wes are still intently making out and interruptedonly at the sound of knocking on the door. It's a specificbeat.

LUCYBehind the door. Now.

Wes grins sheepishly and tries to sort out his shirt, whileLucy simultaneously adjusts her clothes and checks thepeephole to her friends in. The trio squeals. Theirexcitment is short lived however, as another knock on the doorcauses them all to panic.

BAND MOM(on the other side of thedoor)

Girls?

LUCYJust a minute!

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The room is a mass of energy and movement and Wes executes asort of James Bond roll under the bed. Gina and Mandy assume'casual' poses, and Lucy opens the door.

BAND MOMHi girls, just checking in to seeyou're all here.

(she walks in and sitsdown on the bed Wes ishiding under)

I also just wanted to say how proudI am of all of you.

The girls share a look 'can you believe this?'

BAND MOMIt seems like just yesterday youwere all freshman, and now...

The girls know they should be more sentimental, but all theyreally care about is getting Band Mom out of the room.

MANDY(obviously yawning)

I know, just think about thisseason makes me exhausted.

Band Mom does not take the hint and walks over to pick up thetrophies.

BAND MOMYou girls are so lucky...everythingahead of you. Oh, but what am Italking about? I still have otherrooms to check. Remember, be atthe buses promptly at 8AM tomorrow!

She finally leaves the room. Wes hauls himself out from underthe bed and dusts himself off.

WESI didn't think she was ever goingto bloody shut up.

The quartet lets out nervous laughter.

GINAThere is seriously no way we aregetting any sleep tonight.

DISSOLVE TO:

59.


Another montage! The night is a long one, without much sleep:the group watches MTV and does silly choreography, gives eachother manis / pedis, eats from the secret pal gifts, playsTexas Hold'em, etc. The clock reads 6:00AM when Wes andLucy spoon each other and finally go to sleep.

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:


The phone ringing jars everyone awake. Gina mumblesincoherently and practically throws the phone and the alarmclock off the dresser. Everyone cuddles back in for some moresleep.

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:


CU of all three of the girl's phones going off with multipletext messages and calls. The foursome continues to sleeppeacefully. The clock reads 7:45.

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:

INT. HOTEL - HALLWAY

The same Band Mom from the night before is on the other sideof the door, a completely pissed expression on her face. Shepounds on the door.

BAND MOMGirls! Girls! Open up!

The door slowly swings open to reveal Gina, still in herpajamas, while Lucy and Mandy scramble to pack. Wes isnowhere to be seen.

BAND MOMYou are section leaders - all ofyou! This is not how leadership issupposed to act. You better be atthe buses in five minutes or I willmarch you down myself!

60.

The door closes.

CUT TO:


Match on action as the door closes, revealing Wes behind it. The girls fly around the room trying to contain the disasterfrom the previous night. They are practically out the doorwhen Lucy pauses.

LUCYJust wait until the buses leave...

WESHopefully next time we'll get morethan a few hours.

They share a heartbeat longer and then Lucy is literallypulled out the door by her friends, a giant smile on her face.

CUT TO:

EXT. PARKING LOT

Lucy, Gina, and Mandy are obviously the last three marchingband members out of the building and make a less than gracefulwalk of shame.

INT. DRUM LINE BUS

The blushing girls board amidst cheers and whistles and Lucyquickly slides in next to Tom.

TOMMeet up with a vampire last night,did we?

Lucy's hands immediately slap her neck and she scrambles tofind a mirror.

LUCYShhh!!

TOMI'm proud of you, Lucy girl.

LUCY(she burrows into Tom'sshoulder, trying to find aplace to go back to sleep)

I don't know what you are talkingabout, Mr. Finnegan.

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TOMSneaking a boy into your room? You've come a long way from thatshy goody goody you were in 9thgrade.

LUCYI'll take that as a compliment andnow, please let me go to sleep.

Like her friends, the trio promptly passes out.

INT. AQUARIUM - CAFE

Like all band trips, they have to do something 'educational'to get the school board to agree. This is torture for thegirls who haven't slept. Lucy, sitting next to a large cup ofcoffee, looks as her phone beeps.

CUT TO:

C/U PHONE SCREEN

The text reads: Home safe. C U 2mrrw. Your Wes.

CU Lucy's face, she's exhausted, but very happy.

EXT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

The band has finally returned, tired but victorious. Lucyhave shoves her bass, wears her carrier, and tries help steerthe Grand marimba with Molly.

LUCYSo, Molly, there's something I needto tell you...

MOLLYYeah, I should probably mentionsomething to you as well.

LUCYI'll go first.

MOLLYLet's go at the same time?

LUCY3...2...1...

MOLLYI don't like Wes.

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LUCY(simultaneously)

I like Wes!

Given the lack of sleep and excitement, the two dissolve intoa fit of giggles.

LUCY(through her laughter)

Billy?

Molly laughs too hard to do anything but nod. The rest oftheir section walks by as if nothing is different. They areused to the female members of their section acting this way.

INT. BAND ROOM

It's the Monday after the band trip. Lucy waits eagerly tosee if Wes will join her. She's talking to Gina, and her backis to the door when suddenly the room goes quiet. Lucy turnsaround to see Wes walking towards her. As he settles next toher, the room begins to buzz again.

WESHey you.

LUCYHey.

INT. CLASSROOM

Lucy sits with the rest of her homeroom, bored, but listeningto the announcements for the Homecoming court.

PRINCIPAL (V.O)From the senior class, the youngmen elgible for Homecoming Kingare: James Dodge, Alex Young,Trevor Peddle, Jude Sullivan, andWes Mallinson.

Lucy perks up at Wes's name.

PRINCIPAL (V.O.)Elections will be held next weekduring our traditional Pep Week.

The bell rings and the students disperse into the hallway. Wes quickly appears at Lucy's side.

LUCYWhat's up, Mr. Popular?

63.

WESOh, whatever, it doesn't meananything...but it does remind me ofsomething I've been meaning to askyou.

LUCYWhat's that?

WESCan I escort you to the dance?

LUCY(a smile lights up herentire face)

I would like nothing better.

He holds her hand and they walk happily down the hall,oblvious to the mean glares of another member of thecheerleading squad, Tiffany.

INT. FORREST HILLS LOCKER ROOM

Wes is lacing up his cleats. Other members of the team are invarious stages of preparing for practice. He is suddenlyaware a few of his teammates looking at him with interest.

WESCan I help you with something,gents?

Sean, a menancing and giant linebacker, steps forward.

SEANSo, what gives, man?

WESWhat are you talking about?

SEANYou and the band geek?

WESYou mean Lucy?

SEANYeah, I mean, does she put out orwhat?

Wes's jaw clenches.

WES

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I don't see how that's any of yourbusiness.

SEANWell, it doesn't make sense. We'reall trying to figure out what makesher so great when Tiffany isgagging for it.

WESLook, I don't know how it is herein the States, but in the UK, whenyou spend a night with a girl, itmeans something.

SEAN(obviously impressed)

You already spent the night withher?

WES(defensively)

It's not like that - her bestfriends were there as well.

The locker room erupts with testosterone as Wes unsuccessfullyattempts damage control on his comments and fails miserably.

SEANI always knew those band girls wereup for it. "This one time, at bandcamp..."

CUT TO:


Lucy walks down the hallway towards the band room. Althoughshe is usually oblivious - this morning she notices a lot ofpeople looking and whispering in her direction.

INT. BAND ROOM

Lucy ignores the stares and walks in to her usual spot in theband room. Mandy and Gina wait for her - both withtearstained expressions.

LUCY(alarmed)

What's wrong? What happened? Areyou two okay?

MANDY

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(more angry than sad)Maybe you should ask yourboyfriend.

LUCYWhy is that?

GINAThanks to him, our reputations areshot.

LUCYI find that hard to believe.

MANDYThen why were we practicallyaccosted by the football team whenwe came in this morning?

LUCYWhat were they saying?

MANDYThey kept mentioning Saturdaynight.

CUT TO:


Lucy bursts into the hallway and immediately storms up toWes's locker.

WESDid someone do something to you?

LUCYI just need you to answer a simplequestion for me.

(she pauses and catches atelling ragged breath)

What did you tell your teammates? What did you tell them aboutSaturday night?

(tears spill over)I thought that was special...Ithought-- I guess I was wrong.

She turns to walk away, and he puts a hand on her arm whichshe shakes off violently.

LUCY(before Wes can say

66.

anything)I don't want to talk to you everagain. You and your friends can goto hell!

EXT. FOOTBALL PRACTICE FIELD

Wes kicks ball after ball - and misses each one.

EXT. FOOTBALL FIELD - AWAY GAME

CU Scoreboard. The game is tied.

Lucy can't help but watch Wes's figure on the track. Shecringes as she watches Tiffany, approach him.

CUT TO:

EXT. FOOTBALL FIELD - FORREST HILLS SIDE OF THE FIELD

Wes warms up, concnetrating on kicking the practice ball intothe net. The clock is counting down and the team is stilllosing by two points.

TIFFANYHow are you feeling?

WESFine.

Tiffany doesn't seem to take the hint.

TIFFANY(obvious and suggestive)

Let me know if there's anything Ican do to make you feel better.

WESDon't worry, I won't.

COACHMallinson - you're up. I know it'sa few yards than you're used to,but do your best. We're close tomaking the playoffs.

Wes puts on his helmet and joins the huddle. They break andset up on the line of scrimmage.

FOOTBALL PLAYERHut!

The ball comes back, and is set up for Wes. He approaches the

67.

ball and kicks - it sails...wide right. The buzzer sounds andForrest Hills loses the game.

CUT TO:

Lucy's reaction. Even through she doesn't like Wes, she doesfeel bad for him...until she sees Tiffany walk up to 'console'him. She turns her head away in disgust. What did she eversee in him?

INT. WAFFLE HOUSE - NIGHT

The usual gang crowds into 'their' table at a the restuarant. It's obvious they aren't ready to let Wes off the hook.

LUCYYou know, if Izzo finds out we werebehind this idea, he might not letus march in the Thanksgivingparade, right?

BILLYCome Lucy, it's not that big adeal.

LUCYYeah, well, what about the rest ofthe band? We're going to involvethem as well.

MARKOne band, one sound, right? Ithink you'll get everyone to agree.

LUCYAlright. Next stop drum majors.

EXT. FORREST HILLS - PRACTICE FIELD

Lucy, accompanied by a very nervous Bronwyn, approach Drew andFred at practice.

LUCYWhat's up, buddy?

FREDNot much.

LUCYSo, perhaps you've heard the rumorsregarding myself set forth by acertain member of the footballteam?

68.

Drew and Fred are too smart to answer this question.

LUCYAnyways, we have some plans forretribution and they start withyou. Do you want to hear more?

Fred looks at Drew who looks at Bronwyn.

BRONWYNPlease?

DREWLet's hear it.

CUT TO:

Lucy whispering to Mandy and Gina individually.

CUT TO:

The rest of the band leadership interacting with theirsections.

INT. FORREST HILLS - HALLWAY

Lucy and Jewel exit the classroom at the same time.

LUCYHey Jewel - I think I forgot totell you - congratulations onmaking Homecoming Court.

JEWELThanks! Tom was telling me aboutthe competition you guys had -sounds like congratulations are inorder for you as well.

A stormy look quickly settles on Lucy's features.

JEWELWhat's wrong?

LUCYIt's just Wes...

JEWELOh, Lucy, I assumed it was all alie. I mean, you know how guysare.

69.

LUCYThat's the thing - it is a lie. I'm just not sure why Wes would dosomething like that.

She looks away, embarassed at the tears that have formed.

JEWELWell, believe me, I definitelydidn't belive a word of what theywere saying. If it's anyconsolation, I heard Coach wasthinking of replacing him.

LUCYYou know, Jewel, for a cheerleader,you're actually kind of cool.

JEWELAnd for a band geek - you're nottoo bad either.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL FIELD - HOMECOMING

Lucy sits in the stands. Unlike previous scenes, tonight shewears her 'old' uniform.

LUCY(to Mark)

Look after the basses for a second,will you?

CUT TO:

INT. FORREST HILLS - PRESS BOX

Lucy stands nervously outside, then goes into the busy room. A number of reporters and personnel related to the team lookat her strangely. She pulls out a pass from her pockets.

LUCY(to no one specific)

I'm meeting some people from mybroadcasting class here. We'recollecting some B-roll for apackage we're doing on Homecoming.

They return back to the game in progress, leaving Lucy to lookaround the room. A folder titled 'Homecoming Announcements'lays unattended. She looks around the room and waits for amoment then quietly switches papers in the folder and leavesthe room silently.

70.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL FIELD

The buzzer for halftime sounds. Wes, as part of the court, isushered towards the 50 yard line and a corsage is jammed inhis jersey.

TEACHERWho are you escorting tonight?

WESNo on--

TIFFANYMe.

Wes turns around to see Tiffany, resplendent in a bubblegumpink suit. Compared to Lucy's band uniform, she looks everypart of a Homecoming Queen.

WESWhatever.

They move to set up with the rest of the court.

EXT. FORREST HILLS STADIUM

On the field, Lucy sits in a different set with the rest ofthe Line. Since it's Homecoming and cometitions are over,they can all slack. The Homecoming theme this year is aselection of Sinatra tunes, which the band duitfully plays. The bass drummer snaps to attention when she realizes it'sWes's turn to walk down the 50 yard line.

The Guard lines either side of mid-field so they can do the'twirl down' effect with their flags as the couples walk by.

ANNOUNCER (V.O.)Here's Wesley Mallinson, a seniorand a recent transfer from GreatBritain. He's been a wonderfuladdition to our very own ForrestHills High School football team. He's an Honors student, and sourcestell me he wears the smallest cupon the team.

The words 'smallest cup on the team' echo across the field. The audience takes the words in and begins laughing.

At the same time Fred brings up his hands and begins directinga new song. The strains of Beck's "Loser" drift across thefield.

71.

The Guard simultaneously turns their back on the nowhumiliated couple walking down the field.

Wes, not even looking in Lucy's direction, walks towards thelocker room, leaving a speechless Tiffany standing by herself.

ANNOUNCER (V.O.)Sorry, folks, it appears as thoughwe're having some technicaldifficulties this evening.

Fred brings his hands down, ending the song.

BILLYMrs. Wyatt is a Bitch!

The drum line begins playing the rauccous beats of their newhit cadence, while the aduience discusses what just happened. Even the opposing fans talk about what occured on the field.

Lucy feels better, but when she passes the stony face of herband director, she worries what will happen next.

CUT TO:

INT. BAND ROOM - SAME NIGHT

The band stands, crowded at attention, in a concert arc. Mr.Izzo paces through the group, then steps onto the podium.

MR. IZZONever! NEVER in my fifteen yearsof instructing bands have I everseen anything like what happened onthe field tonight. Two weeks ago,you were some of the bestperformers and most talented youngmusicians I had ever seen. Andnow? Does anyone wnat to volunteerwho is behind this little stunt?

The band room is perfectly quiet.

MR. IZZOBecause of your actions and yourdecisions, a young man's eveningwas completely ruined! I hope theperson or group who is behind thisevent are happy with themselves.

Surprisingly, Lucy's expression is serene - she's at peacewith things.

72.

MR. IZZOWhen I get to the bottom of who isresponsible - there will beconsequences!

INT. LUCY'S CAR - NIGHT

Lucy drives, while Bronwyn sits shotgun.

BRONWYNThanks for taking me out tonight!

LUCYNo worries - I mean, just becauseeveryone else is out having,doesn't mean we shouldn't, right?

The attempt at uplifting the mood falls flat. The realitythat both girls would rather be at Homecoming is obvious.

BRONWYNIs anything wrong?

LUCYNo. I'm fine. Have you heard thissong before?

Lucy obviously changes the subject by turning up the radio. Breaking out of her shell for perhaps the first time ever,Bronwyn turns the volume back down.

BRONWYNAre you sure you're okay?

LUCY(snaps)

I'm fine!(a beat)

I'm sorry, I didn't mean it to comeout that way. It's just...this isnever where I pictured my seniorseason going.

BRONWYNThat's okay, I know I need to getthicker skin.

LUCYYou really do. I mean, let's faceit, you've got some amazingpercussive skills - maybe evenenough to lead the Line one day.

73.

BRONWYNYou really think so?

LUCYCome on, B, you've got the wholepackage. 'Lady Captain' has a nicering to it.

BRONWYNI don't think they'll listen to me.

LUCYThey will if you make them.

BRONWYNI'm just not sure...there's a lotof competition.

LUCY(sarcastically)

Competition? On a drum line? Ofcourse there is. Look, at leastpromise me you'll audition forsnare next year. That way, you'llat least be in line for it.

BRONWYNI'll think about it.

INT. BAND ROOM

The drum line is setting up for rehearsal. Mr. Izzo steps outof the room. This is unusual, because he is usually 'handsoff' when it comes to this section.

MR. IZZOI've thought a lot over the weekendand come to a decision regarding'the prank.' Until someone comesforward with who was responsiblefor the incident, then I am goingto revoke our attendance to theThanksgiving parade. Since theband is so insistent on acting as awhole, they will take theconsequences as a whole. I leaveit up to you.

The band director walks calmly into his office and closes thedoor.

BILLYWhat are you waiting for? We still

74.

need to practice.

INT. WAFFLE HOUSE - AFTER PRACTICE

The seniors crowd in the same booth as before.

LUCYGuys, I'm going to turn myself in.

J.D.We can't march the parade withoutyou.

LUCYSure you can. It's not worth allof this. It was my idea and I needto own up to my decision.

MOLLYCould we call his bluff? Surelyhe's not going to cancel us going. We've been going every year sinceforever.

BILLY(snaps his fingers)

I have an idea - what if we allconfess?

LUCYLike all of us all of us? Thewhole band? Could we ask them todo that?

MARKLook, I think if you get themajority to go along with things,we're going to force his bluff.

LUCYYou really think so?

TOMThere's only one way to find out.

BILLYTomorrow?

LUCYI'll get the word out.

There are nods of agreement around the table.

75.

INT. RESIDENCE - LUCY'S ROOM

Birds chirp merrily outside. All is still in the Karatehousehold. Lucy snores and then rolls over.

CU - Alarm clock - 10:30

LUCYWhat?!

She scrambles out of bed and races downstairs.

CU - Note

BECKY (V.O.)Lucy, I know you haven't beensleeping well, so I decided to letyou rest this morning. Here's anote to get you into school. Iknow you will be in before drumline.

Lucy is torn - bittersweet that her Mom is awesome and sadbecause she's missed the most important day of her high schoolcareer.

INT. BAND DIRECTOR'S OFFICE

One by one, students file in. One by one, they sit in thechair opposite the band director and tell him the same words.

INT. FORREST HILLS HALLWAY

Lucy, obviously straight out of bed, rushes to find Gina andMandy at Mandy's locker.

GINAWhere were you this morning?

LUCYOverslept. I know, the Universe hasa sense of humor. So? Whathappened?

MANDYThe plan is going brilliantly.

The girls begin walking and talking through the crowded halls.

GINAIzzo had no clue what was going on. We all lined up and one by one,

76.

went into his office and told himthe same thing.

MANDYAnd everyone else has been doingthe same thing. Every class, it'sthe same. He's going to have tochange his mind.

INT. BAND ROOM

The percussionists, according to rank and seniority, line upin front of the band director's office.

Lucy, wipes sweaty palms on her jeans before she walks in andsits down in the chair opposite her band director.

LUCY(honestly)

Mr. Izzo, it was my idea. I am theone responsible for the prank.Please don't punish the rest of theband for my mistake.

The band director leans back in his chair.

MR. IZZOYou know, Lucy, I've been listeningto these lines all day and I reallythink you should consider talkingto Ms. Lambert in the dramadepartment. You could have afuture as an actress.

If he only knew.

Lucy walks out of the office, hopefuly this plan will work.

EXT. FORREST HILLS PRACTICE FIELD (SAME DAY)

The band stands at attention. Mr. Izzo paces on the directorpodium.

MR. IZZOI have been with this program forfifteen years. I have seen many ofyour brothers and sisters comethrough this program and I lookforward to meeting your youngersiblings. Without them, and thehelp of your parents, we would nothave the outstanding marchingprogram we have today. Once you

77.

leave the halls of Forrest Hills, Iwould like to think that a smallpart of who you are was created outhere on the practice field. So, inlight of recent events andadmissions, I offer a solution. Icannot and will not ignore whathappened at the Homecoming game,but I can also recognize that youwere working together. So, as agroup, those who came forward willserve Saturday detention to cleanthe stadium.

(he paces another moment)I have also decided we will goahead and march the parade asscheduled.

The band explodes into cheers. The punishment fits the crime.

CUT TO:

EXT. FORREST HILLS - FOOTBALL FIELD

The cheers from the band carry over to the football field. Wes looks up, sadly. Sean walks over and notices.

SEANWhat's up? I thought you and theband dork were through.

WESWe are, no thanks to you.

SEANIs that why you've been suckingrecently?

WESWhat do you mean?

SEANWhen you first came to the team,you were like this awesome guy whonever missed. Now, you miss morethan you make. I heard Coach wasthinking of starting Bennett thisweek.

WES(shrugs)

That's his call, I guess.

78.

SEANYeah, but you have the skills.

WESMaybe. Maybe not. I'm not evensure I had them to begin with.

INT. BUS - NIGHT

Lucy and Tom sit together in 'their' seat.

LUCYI feel like I haven't talked to yousince Homecoming.

TOMYeah, well...

LUCYThings are going that well withJewel?

TOMYou could say that.

LUCYI'm glad for you and dude, can youbelieve you're dating theHomecoming Queen?

TOMI know, it's crazy.

LUCYWas Jewel, er, mad about whathappened at the game?

TOMNo, I mean, her big night was onSaturday, so it wasn't a big deal.

LUCYDoes she know I was behind it?

TOMShe's not an Honors student fornothing, Luce.

LUCYOh...

TOMDon't worry, she's not going to say

79.

anything. Anyway, what about youand Wes?

LUCYWhat about us? Do I really need toremind you that he totally trashedmy reputation? And the reputationsof my best friends?

TOMDid he? Or was it the rest of thefootball team?

LUCYHmph.

TOMLucy, you better than anyone shuldknow not to lump one person into acategory just because they are partof a group.

LUCYIt doesn't--

TOMNo, it doesn't make it right. AllI'm saying, is that I've known youfor a long time now, and I've neverseen you as happy as you were thatweekend.

LUCYWhat? You think that was becauseof Wes? We won first place -Sweepstakes and best drum line. Can't a girl be happy because herband won?

TOM(sarcastic)

Yeah, sure, that was definitely thereason.

LUCY(looks out the window)

Anyway, it doesn't matter now. It's too late.

EXT. FORREST HILLS STUDENT PARKING LOT (SAME DAY)

The sky is darker now. Fall is in full effect and the days

80.

are much shorter. Lucy walks out with her friends.

GINADon't look now, Luce, but there's abig football player behind you.

Lucy turns to see Sean lurking behind her.

MANDYCome over to spread any morerumors?

SEANUh...

LUCYI can handle this, girls. I'llcatch up with you later.

With wary glances, her two best friends walk towards theircars. Sean and Lucy take a seat opposite each other on ashort wall near the parking lot.

SEANWhat did you do to Wes?

LUCYIf that's what you came to talk tome about, well, it's more like whathe did to me.

SEANAre you so sure about that?

LUCYC'mon, Sean, I know you were there. He had to have been bragging aboutthe weekend that no one in thisschool can seem to shut up about!

Sean scratches his head and looks away. Lucy reaches over andforces him to look at her.

LUCYHe was bragging, right?

SEANUmmm....

LUCYWhat do you mean, 'Ummm?'

SEAN

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Seriously, he didn't give anyspecific details.

LUCYWhat?! I want the whole story. Now.

SEANFine. We started asking him aboutwhat he was doing with you, and Ithink he said something like, 'ifyou spend a night with a girl, itmeans something.'

LUCYThat's exactly what he said? Thenhow in the hell did Gina and Mandyget involved in the rumor?

SEANWell, we um, obviouslymisinterpreted his originalstatement and to defend himself, Ithink he mentioned 'her two friendswere there.'

LUCYI suppose the next thing you'regoing to tell me is that he triedto stop you guys from believing thewrong thing?

SEANActually...

In reponse, Lucy sighs loudly.

SEANSo, can you make it better?

Lucy is still trying to absorb the impact of what Sean hassaid.

SEANSee, here's the thing. I don'tknow if you can relate, but you'rea senior too, so here goes. Thisis our last shot - if we win thestate championships, then it'sgoing to mean a lot to me - to thewhole school. I don't know if youcan understand this whole thing,but I've been playing football

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since I was like six, and winningState would be the biggest thingever. I just don't want to look atmy senior year and have regrets,you know?

Lucy takes a moment.

LUCYSean, somehow, inexplicably, I canactually understand what you'resaying. But, what do you want meto do? He knows I was behind thewhole Homecoming stunt. I'mfairly certain he doesn't wantanything to do with me.

SEANJust talk to him.

LUCYYou're sure?

SEANLook, he hasn't been the samesince...since all that went down. Semi's are this weekend and if webeat Zion, I know we can make it tofinals.

LUCYI still don't know how me talkingto Wes is going to make hisfootball game any better.

SEANI don't know either. I just knowhis game is totally different nowthat you're not in his life.

LUCY(bitterly)

Why don't you ask Tiffany?

SEANDon't be dense. It's you he wants.

LUCYI'll think about it.

INT. STADIUM - NIGHT

It's the Semifinals for the state football championships. The

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stands are packed with high school students, parents, and fansof all kinds. It's a full day event, with the last game,Forrest Hills vs. Zion High School to see who will go on tothe Quarterfinals. The game is played in the city's localstadium.

Lucy sits in the tunnel with the rest of the band waiting togo on for the halftime show. The buzzer sounds.

CU - Scoreboard

ANNOUNCER (V.O.)After a hard fought first half,Forrest Hills trails 10-7. BothCoaches will have a lot to talkabout during their halftime. Andnow, stay in your seats while eachof the high school's marching bandspresent their halftime shows.

INT. STADIUM

The Forrest Hills band marches out onto the field.

BILLYIn case I don't get the chance tosay it, it's been an honor playingwith you guys for four years. Iftoday is our last show, well, it'sbeen a fun ride.

INT. STADIUM - THIRD QUARTER

Lucy meets up with Gina and Mandy back in the stands, who bothhave sad, but brave looks on their faces.

GINAIt doesn't seem possible.

LUCYWhat's that?

GINAHow quickly four years goes by.

Lucy looks at the rest of the band. They are on the edge oftheir seats as they look down at the field watching the gamein action. Lucy rummages around in her duffel bag and findsher drum line jacket. She zips it up confidently and leavesthe marching band section without telling anyone where she'sgoing.

CUT TO:

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INT. STADIUM - FORREST HILLS SIDE

Lucy dodges past security and walks over near to where thefootball team stands. She pauses for a moment and watches Weswarm up. Even his kick seems unmotivated.

LUCYWes...

Wes doesn't turn around to face her.

LUCYSean told me what happened in thelocker room that day.

Wes turns around to face Lucy. Even in the middle of thecrowded stadium, on the sidelines of a very intense game, it'slike they're the only people in the world.

WESYou have to know I really did tryand stop them.

LUCYI believe you. I... I also think Iowe you an apology.

WES'Smallest cup on the team?'

LUCY(blushing)

I don't think I woke up next toanything small that morning.

WESCheeky.

ASSISTANT COACH (O.S.)Mallinson - you're up!

They both are transported back to reality.

WESOne moment.

LUCY Go ahead, they're waiting for you.

WESThey can keep waiting.

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Hollywood kiss. In fact, the kiss is so spectacular, that oneof the camera guys zooms in and the embrace gets put on thejumbotron.

CUT TO:

Mandy and Gina sharing a smile in the stands.

Molly and Tom also sharing a knowing look.

CUT TO:

ASSISTANT COACHAlright, loverboy, get out thereand get us three.

Lucy and Wes finally break the kiss. Wes picks up his helmetand jogs out to the field. As he does, Lucy intercepts asalute from Sean which she returns with a smile.

The bass drummer watches with pride as the ball is snapped andWes kicks it cleanly through the uprights. The buzzer sounds,and the final score is Forrest Hills, 21, Zion High, 17.


Lucy and Wes walk together, smiles on both of their faces. Lucy twirls a giant ring around her neck.

LUCYAre you sure you want me to wearthis?

WESWell, considering if it wasn't foryou, I'm not so sure we would havethe won the State Championship,then I think you've earned theright to wear it.

The pair hold hands and continues walking.

FADE OUT:

FIN.

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A Fine Line Screenplay

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Transcript of A Fine Line Screenplay