De Jong and the Rustlers

FADE IN:

EXT. LESOTHO MOUNTAIN LANDSCAPE - DAY1 1

The sound of MUSIC. It’s the twanging of a THOME (a traditional stringed instrument) echoing across the valleys. There’s something of the Ennio Morricone about that sound.

Dwarfed by the vast mountainous landscape, a lone figure approaches on horseback from way off in the distance.

He’s wrapped in a brown and white Basotho blanket strongly reminiscent of Clint Eastwood’s poncho in ‘A Fistful of Dollars’, and wears a conical piece of straw headgear topped by a complicated knot.

Close, it’s the rider playing the thome. He bestrides his horse with the easy rhythmic grace of an expert horseman. Tied to his saddle, a strong stick as a weapon.

He pulls up on a ledge overlooking the valley below.

It is LEBONA, (the One who Sees). He surveys a timeless landscape unchanged since the time of King Moshoeshoe the First. Lebona is young, early twenties. He looks out with unblinking eyes locked onto a vision that no-one else sees.

EXT. MENKWANENG SALOON - DAY2 2

Lebona rides down the dusty main street of the village of Menkwaneng.

There, propped on a wooden chair leaning back against the wall of a saloon, a big beefy bear of a guy swigs from a bottle of CASTLE LAGER. It is KOTSI (Danger), Lebona’s one school-friend.

Lebona reigns in his pony adjacent to where Kotsi sits. They speak in the Lesotho form of the SeSotho language (to be translated from the English script). Lebona’s use of language is quaint and archaic - always quite formal in tone.

LEBONAHai, Kotsi. U kae?

KOTSIKe teng, Bra Lebona, wena o kae ?

Lebona springs from his horse, clasps Kotsi warmly.

(How are you? Lit: Where are you?)

(I'm fine, and you ? Lit: I'm here, where are you?)

LEBONAI thought you were gone for ever, my friend?

Kotsi shrugs, his speech more colloquial, hipper.

KOTSIOnly so many women one man can do. Eish, that Jozi is tiring, I’m telling you!

LEBONASerious? And what about all the big plans?

Kotsi smiles.

KOTSIRight on track. I was lucky - came into some bucks.

He pats his pocket.

KOTSI (cont’d)Now I’m thinking - invest in my future.

Lebona grins, indicates the bottle of Castle in Kotsi’s hand.

LEBONAI see your future. Same as your past.

Kotsi shakes his head.

KOTSINo man, I mean it. A man needs a plan.

(A beat)But talking of futures, Palesa came by. She’s looking for you.

Lebona smiles.

LEBONAThat’s always good news.


KOTSII don’t know, bra - she looks serious. You know that chick when she makes up her mind!

2.

Lebona leans on the wall beside him.

LEBONAI do, it’s exhausting. And you? What is your news?

EXT. ICE COLD IN ALEX - DAY3 3

A hard-looking guy, SHERIFF MSOMI, and his three henchmen, collectively known as the LAZY Y GANG, are busy trying to extract some information from the barman, known as ICE, of an Alexandra shebeen, the ICE COLD IN ALEX.

Sheriff Msomi leans forward into the face of Ice, whose arms are pinned back by the Lazy Y boys.

SHERIFF MSOMIYou’re wasting my time my friend Ice. Have you forgotten my name?

STUPID forces Ice’s arm up behind his back, painfully.

Ice shakes his head.

BARMANYour name is Sheriff Msomi.

Sheriff nods. He affects the manner of a quiz show host.

SHERIFF MSOMICorrect! Do I look like someone you should waste his time?

The barman shakes his head.

SHERIFF MSOMI (cont’d)Now, the question for ten thousand rand. Where the fok is that moegoeKotsi?

You don’t get to own an Alex shebeen without being quite resilient. Ice protests.

ICEI don’t know any Kotsi, I told you! People come in and people go out. How should I know what their names are?

Sheriff KLAPS Ice round the head.

3.

SHERIFF MSOMIWrong answer! But you’re through to the second round.

Sheriff leans back with a sigh. He unclasps a knife and starts cleaning his fingernails.

SHERIFF MSOMI (CONT'D)What we have here, is a simple failure in identification.

He indicates his three goons, DOZY, SLEEPY and STUPID.

SHERIFF MSOMI (CONT'D)Let’s ask a friend here, what is Kotsi like?

DOZYHe’s a fat fuck.

SLEEPYFrom the sticks.

STUPIDJa, exactly!

Sheriff Msomi smiles. He whips up his knife and jams it into the nostril of Ice, who freezes.

SHERIFF MSOMISo, last time for the prize. Have you seen a fat, rural, fuck from the sticks in here lately?

Ice’s eyes widen.

SHERIFF MSOMI (CONT'D)Just blink for yes. Nodding would be a mistake at this stage.

Ice blinks. Sheriff removes the blade from his nostril.

SHERIFF MSOMI (CONT'D)You see now - how easy is this?

ICEBig guy from Lesotho?

SHERIFF MSOMINot bad. And so...?

Sheriff makes a circular motion with his wrist to indicate he needs more.

4.

Ice is on a roll.

ICEThat’s what he said, Lesotho. Bought a round for the house before heading for the hills. He said he’d come into some money.

SHERIFF MSOMICorrect! Do you know whose money that was?

Ice shakes his head.

Sheriff KLAPS Ice round the head.

SHERIFF MSOMI (cont’d)You lose! Thanks for playing.

Sheriff nods to Dozy who empties the CASH REGISTER behind Ice. Sheriff walks out, folding away his knife.

EXT. MOKHETI’S HOUSE - DAY4 4

At a traditional house outside Menkwaneng, Lebona is on the receiving end of some stern words from MOKHETI (The one who will decide) who is forty to fifty years old, and pompous. The incomparably beautiful PALESA (Flower) is his only daughter.

MOKHETIYou see, young man, it’s quite simple. Palesa is the only daughter I have. I sent her to a good school, I bought her the necessary uniforms and the pencils. I have always fed her well. In fact, I have made a big investment in her future.

The assembled relatives and menfolk all nod - this is true.

LEBONAYes sir, I know.

Mokheti glares at him.

MOKHETIPlease don’t interrupt. I am talking.

(The silence hangs heavy)

5.

(MORE)

In fact, I have recently received some information from Palesa’s mother. It seems that Palesa wants to get married.

Lebona looks around at the stern faces of the assembled relatives.

LEBONAI have just now received the same news.

MOKHETIWell this should be a source of joy for a father. Why am I feeling worried?

Lebona looks down, chooses his words with care.

LEBONAMokheti, sir, I assure you Palesa’s future is in safe hands. My intentions towards your daughter are honourable.

MOKHETIThat’s easy for you to say. But consider my position as a father. My daughter is still a young woman. Do you think I want her to devote all her time and energy to one poor young man?

Lebona considers.

LEBONAI would think it is better for a father to know that his daughter is giving time and energy to one poor young man than to many poor young men.

Palesa suppresses a giggle.

MOKHETIWhat? Don’t be clever with me, my friend.

LEBONABut as for a financial settlement, I will be happy to come to terms regarding the mahali (bride price).

6.

MOKHETI (cont'd)

This brings a ripple of derisive laughter from the assembled menfolk.

MOKHETIAh yes, we have heard about your many dreams. I think you are dreaming even now as we speak.

PALESAPa!

Mokheti ignores her.

MOKHETIWe all know your financial condition - no property, no cattle, no prospects.

Lebona looks down. He scratches his head.

MOKHETI (cont’d)And speaking of cattle, I always expected a very good bride-price. I was thinking two hundred would be fair.

Lebona gulps, he’s shocked.

LEBONATwo hundred rand?

The spectators all laugh.

MOKHETITwo hundred cows.

Lebona is shaken. But he manages to summon all his dignity.

LEBONATwo hundred cattle, sir, are you sure? Palesa is the most valuable jewel of this ‘kingdom in the skies’. But you are surely a most generous father...

Mokheti is not to be dazzled by oratory.

MOKHETIPerhaps not as generous as you hope. Flattery will only take you so far. And that’s not far when it comes to cattle. Two hundred head.

7.

(MORE)

That’s my decision. Do you have a problem with that?

The onlookers snigger, derisively.

Lebona shakes his head.

LEBONASir, I don’t have a problem at all. Your daughter is beyond value, as I, more than anyone, know. In fact, she is worthy of twice that amount.

The spectators gasp at Lebona’s audacity.

Palesa’s eyes widen, she winces.

Mokheti is irritated. He’s obviously not planning to play games with this cheeky whipper-snapper for too much longer.

MOKHETIFine then, we have settled the question of bride-price. So may I enquire how you’re planning to get it?

Lebona draws himself up and explains.

LEBONAAs people may or may not know, I am a direct descendant of the great King Moshoeshoe the First.

The spectators all crack up laughing. They’ve heard this speech before.

MOKHETISo you say.

LEBONAYes. And as such, I am confident that the answer to your question will surely be revealed to me when the time is right.

(Patience is a virtue)

Everyone finds this hilarious. They seem to feel that Lebona, like most ‘village idiots’, is always good for a chuckle.

Mokheti looks round at his audience, tries a proverb of his own.

8.

MOKHETI (cont'd)

Ho bea ditho ho hlahisa kgomo

MOKHETI

(Great talkers are never great doers.)I must ask whether there is any evidence for this important ancestry you are claiming?

They all laugh.

Lebona looks round him, he’s serious now.

LEBONAThis ancestry is something I’ve felt deep inside me for as long as I can remember. It’s something I know to be true. I have always had many dreams about Moshoeshoe. And confident in this knowledge I will do my best for your daughter.

The folks all find this hilarious. But Mokheti gestures for silence.

Sitting demurely to one side, PALESA looks worried at the turn this conversation is taking.

Mokheti goes in for the kill.

MOKHETIWell if it’s true you’re descended from King Moshoeshoe, an important man like yourself should have no trouble getting the cattle!

The spectators are rubbing tears of mirth from their eyes, as Mokheti goes on:

MOKHETI (cont’d)I will give you a month to arrange this. Otherwise, of course, you will understand why I will reluctantly be obliged to look elsewhere for suitors for Palesa’s hand.

Palesa looks dashed. As she thought, a disaster!

Standing up from the dust where he’s been squatting respectfully, Lebona turns and walks down the track towards home, the mocking laughter of the spectators ringing in his ears.

9.

Yes, but ho bua hase ho phetha.

INT. LEBONA’S HUT - EVENING5 5

Lebona lies on his bed with Palesa’s arm encircling him, comfortingly. He seems to have slipped into post-coital melancholy.

PALESADon’t take it to heart, my darling. I know people laugh at your interest in history. Maybe it’s better to keep that quiet.

LEBONAWhy should we need to keep quiet about history? Those were truly times when men were men.

PALESAIt’s just... people hear about your dreams and they think...

LEBONAWhat? They think what? That I’m crazy? I really don’t care about what people think. It’s just this mahali thing now.

Palesa gets up, wraps a towel around her.

PALESAI spoke to Lerato (Love) today.

LEBONAI thought you said she went to Maseru?

PALESAShe’s at the casino - I gave her a call. She’s earning good money in tips.

Lebona gets up, slips into some jeans.

LEBONAForget it, Palesa. You know there’s no way -

She interrupts him.

10.

PALESAHow else are we going to get money? I don’t see any progress on your side.

LEBONAI’m waiting, you know.

Palesa is scornful.

PALESAWaiting? You’re always waiting.

Lebona shrugs.

LEBONAI’m waiting to see what develops.

Palesa is exasperated.

PALESAYou’re waiting to dream up an answer. But Moshoeshoe’s not going to solve this one for you. You’ve got to get on with your own life.

Palesa slips out of the door of the hut.

Lebona jumps out of bed, struggles into his pants.

LEBONAPalesa?

EXT. LEBONA’S HUT - NIGHT6 6

Palesa stands outside the door in the moonlight. She’s looking up at the moon.

Lebona comes out of the door behind her. He circles her with his arms.

LEBONADon’t worry. I’m sure it will work itself out.

Palesa breaks free, turns to face him.

PALESAI’m serious. I’m going to Maseru.


11.

LEBONAA woman can’t work for her own bride-price. That goes against all our traditions.

PALESASo what? I don’t care. Forget the old ways. Wake up - it’s the twenty-first century!

LEBONAWell, I’m the man and my word is final. I’m not letting you go off to Maseru to take up some job as a maid.

The look on Palesa’s face says it all.

EXT. MONTAGE OF TRAVELLING SHOTS - DAY7 7

In a comic montage of shots, Lebona and Palesa, both mounted on his horse, ride through a variety of landscapes - through valleys, past huts and through throngs of sheep blocking the road and finally down onto the flat main road on the outskirts of Maseru where the SUVs and semi-trailers honk their horns impatiently and barrel past, blowing them into the verge.

I/E MASERU SUN CASINO/BAR - NIGHT8 8

Lebona stands outside the Maseru Sun Casino looking through a window into the bar.

Inside, from Lebona’s POV, Palesa can be seen walking away from one of the tables towards the bar. She pockets ten bucks, a tip from the punter she’s just served.

Close, Palesa is dressed in a sexy little mini-skirt uniform, her blouse showing just the right amount of cleavage. She’s transformed from the girl in the village - and maybe not in a good way, with lipstick, and makeup caking her face.

An over-attentive young BARMAN is certainly impressed as he fills her drink order.

Lebona scowls, disapproving.

At the bar, picking up orders, LERATO points at the window where Lebona stands. Palesa looks over and catches his eye. She waves him away embarrassed. Lerato giggles.

12.

Palesa puts an order of drinks on her tray. She smiles at the Barman, who winks.

In her borrowed high heels, she clicks over to a table of rowdy AFRIKAANS FARMERS on a night out over the border from the Free State to gamble.

The Farmers all leer, whistle and catcall at Palesa as she puts down their drinks in front of them.

Dominating this group is KOBUS DE JONG, 35-40 years old, blonde, bearded and powerful. As Palesa puts down his Klipdrift and Coke on the table in front of him, Kobus clocks her cleavage, looks up and notices her.

Palesa smiles sweetly, but Kobus’ interest is aroused. As she turns to go, Kobus grabs her arm, pulls him back towards him.

KOBUS(English)

Hey not so fast.

Close, through the window, Lebona sees this, his eyes narrow.

Back at the table, Kobus peels a 50 buck note off a wad from his pocket. He hands it to Palesa, who smiles, uncertain.

Kobus pulls her towards him, spins her round and draws her down to sit on his lap.

KOBUS (cont’d)Any chance of a lap-dance, hey?

At the window, Lebona is galvanised into action - he heads for the door.

Inside, Palesa tries politely to disentangle herself from the paw of the Boer. She looks at her watch.

PALESAOh, look at the time. My shift’s over.

KOBUSReally?

One of his mates takes this as a good sign.

MATEGo for it, Kobus. Why not?

Kobus looks round at his mates.

13.

meisie,

KOBUSWhat happens in Lesotho stays in Lesotho!

EXT. BAR DOOR - NIGHT9 9

Lebona bursts through the swing-door into the bar and calls out in SeSotho.

LEBONALeave her alone!

The Afrikaans farmers at the table all turn to look at this wild apparition, incongruous in the bar of the Sun Casino.

Striding up to Kobus’ table, Lebona smacks down his heavy stick on it, making the Klipdrift jump.

Kobus jumps to his feet, dislodging Palesa from his lap. He can’t believe what he’s seeing.

KOBUSWhat?

Lebona switches to English.

LEBONAI said, that’s enough!

KOBUSS’cuse? Who the fok are you?

Lebona draws himself up to his full height.

LEBONAI am Lebona Lepoqo (disasters) Moketeli, descendant of King Moshoeshoe the First, the founder of Lesotho.

Palesa knows this is not a good start.

One of the Farmers points at his temple with a screwing motion, indicating that Lebona’s a lunatic. They all LAUGH.

The Farmers all get to their feet, confront Lebona.

FARMER ONEHey Moshesh - you down on your luck or what?

Farmer Two stabs Lebona in the chest with his finger.

14.

FARMER TWOYou get your own chick, buddy. This one belongs to Kobus, ek se.

Lebona takes a more conciliatory tone.

LEBONAI see that you, our neighbours from the Free State, are not familiar with our customs. Really, in fact, you have made a mistake...

Palesa makes good her escape to behind the bar, as:

With one lightning swift move, Kobus snatches Lebona’s stick from his grasp.

His arm swings back and around and the end of the stick whistles past Lebona’s nose as it lifts the traditional hat from his head, spinning it up and around and looping it out through the doorway.

As Lebona half turns in surprise to watch his spinning hat exit the room, the stick swings again in hands as deft as some Kung Fu master, and cracks Lebona on the butt with a slap that sends him staggering.

Kobus snaps the heavy stick across his knee like a twig and points at the door.

KOBUSVoetsek!

And as Palesa watches in disappointment from the safety of the bar, Lebona beats an ignominious retreat whence he came, to the chorus of LAUGHTER from Kobus and his friends.

The handsome Barman puts an arm round Palesa’s shoulder. She is clearly unhappy.

INT. PALESA’S ROOM/MASERU SUN STAFF QUARTERS - NIGHT10 10

In Palesa’s cramped room in the staff quarters, she wipes off her makeup.

Lebona harangues her.

LEBONAJust look at those Boere - they’re animals! This is no kind of job for my wife.

15.

Palesa is upset. She turns on Lebona.

PALESAAnd where’s my great warrior now? I didn’t notice Moshoeshoe helping you out with that Boer while he was grabbing and groping me?

Lebona cuts in.

LEBONAThis is something between you and me. Don’t bring my ancestor into this.

PALESAYou’re the one always hides behind him. Don’t you get it? People just think you’re an idiot.

She does the twisting her finger into her temple motion - a screw loose.

LEBONAAnd you? What do you think?

PALESAWhat do I think? I think you’re Lebona. Yourself, no-one famous. An ordinary guy. I really don’t care about your ancestors.

(A beat)But someone’s got to earn this mahali, since you obviously aren’t going to manage it.

Lebona looks at her, stung. He heads for the door.

PALESA (cont’d)Oh, fine - that’s right, just take off and leave me. That will solve everything! Bye!

Lebona walks out, slamming the door behind him.

EXT. MASERU SUN - NIGHT11 11

Lebona leaps deftly onto his horse’s back and gallops away into the night.

16.

A moment later, Palesa darts out of the door looking for him, just in time to hear the sound of HOOVES clip-clopping into the distance.

PALESALEBONA!

EXT. BUSH CAMPSITE - NIGHT12 12

By the light of a fire, the huddled figure of Lebona sits propped against a boulder staring into the embers. There is no sound except for the STREAM GURGLING nearby and NIGHTBIRDS in the bush.

Close, Lebona’s eyes close and his head nods back as he dreams:

EXT. LEBONA’S DREAMSCAPE - DAY13 13

Lebona dreams of a huge cloud of red dust sweeping across the landscape. The sound of a thunderous DRUMMING of hooves. From out of the dust, a half-glimpsed face - could it be...?

EXT. BUSH CAMPSITE - DAWN 14 14

Lebona wakes with a start. He sits bolt upright.

LEBONAMoshoeshoe!

INT. PALESA’S ROOM/MASERU SUN STAFF QUARTERS - DAY15 15

The loud sound of KNOCKING on her door wakes Palesa.

She throws on a gown and opens the door, bleary-eyed.

Lebona bursts in. He’s excited.

LEBONAI’ve got it!

He strides into the room, full of energy.

Palesa sleep-walks over to the kettle on the top of her chest of drawers.

PALESAGot what? The mahali? That’s great!

17.

She fills the kettle at the small basin in the room, starts to lay out two cups for tea.

LEBONAI had a dream - clear as day. Moshoeshoe showed me I have to shave the Boer’s beard.

He pantomimes shaving swiftly and cleanly down each of his cheeks.

LEBONA (cont’d)It’s perfect, you see. Nice and clean!

Palesa sighs deeply.

PALESAPlease.... It’s too early for this.

LEBONANo, serious. It’s easy. I know what to do. I need to find out where he lives.

Palesa is dubious.

PALESALebona, I think you must leave it alone. Sure, he grabbed me, the man was drunk. He made me feel really cheap.

(Gently)But I don’t see what you can do about that.

LEBONAI’ll make him sorry he ever met me.

(If you beat a dog, it will bare its teeth.)

Palesa looks dubious.

PALESAI don’t expect you to fight with this Boer. Maybe we should just forget about it.


18.

Ha o otla ntja, e tla betla meno.

LEBONAI’m going to make this barbarian pay.

She slams down the sugar-bowl on the table.

PALESADid you wake me up just to discuss that De Jong? Can’t you ever just face the facts. You did your best, but he’s bigger than you. You’ll never get him to say that he’s sorry.

Lebona cuts in, suspicious.

LEBONAHow do you know this Boer’s name?

Palesa sucks her teeth at his stupidity.

PALESAI swiped the guy’s credit-card. He had to sign. His name is De Jong, okay? Lerato says he’s a rancher from Ficksburg. Everyone here knows De Jong.

Lebona, pensive, savours the words.

LEBONADe Jong....Okay, good - De Jong.

He hugs Palesa and starts to leave.

PALESAWhere are you going?

LEBONATrust me, I’m going to deal with this Boer. Everything’s going to be fine.

PALESAAnd what about my bride-price?

Lebona stops at the door.

LEBONADon’t worry about it.

19.

EXT. MENKWANENG SALOON - DAY16 16

Outside the saloon, Kotsi occupies his favourite spot in the sun. An old-fashioned TELEPHONE RINGS loudly inside.

Kotsi takes a swig on his beer, contemplates the empty street.

The SALOON OWNER sticks his head round the door.

SALOON OWNERKotsi! It’s for you.

Kotsi jerks out of his reverie, bewildered.

KOTSIMe? Who is it?

SALOON OWNERGuy called Ice from Alexandra. He says to tell you it’s urgent.

INT. MENKWANENG SALOON - DAY17 17

Close, Kotsi speaks into the old bakelite phone. He’s incredulous.

KOTSIHe’s coming here to Lesotho? You mean he knows where I live?

ICE (V.O.)No he doesn’t. Not yet, anyway. But your friend Sheriff’s a very persistent guy. Sooner or later expect a visit.

Kotsi looks worried.

KOTSISharp sharp, Ice, thanks a lot man.

ICEJust don’t come back til you’ve sorted this out! And don’t fuck with Sheriff - I’m serious!

Ice slams the phone down on the other end just as:

Lebona comes into the saloon. He sees Kotsi there, signs for a bottle of beer.

20.

As Kotsi puts down the receiver, Lebona thrusts a Castle into Kotsi’s hand.

LEBONASo here’s the thing -

KOTSIWhat thing?

Lebona drags Kotsi towards the door.

LEBONAI’ve got a plan. It’s simple.

EXT. MENKWANENG STREET - DAY18 18

Lebona and Kotsi walk along the street deep in discussion. Kotsi resists to the best of his ability, but it’s clearly a losing battle.

KOTSINo way. I’ve got my own problems. I’m really not listening to you.

He puts his hands over his ears.

LEBONAIt’s perfect.

(Every man is the architect of his own fortune.)

Kotsi hums to keep out the sound of Lebona’s persuasion.

KOTSILa la. I know you and your silver-tongued bullshit. Not this time, dude, forget it!

LEBONACome on, my friend. Be reasonable. Have I ever steered you wrong?

Kotsi snorts, he thinks back. They’re approaching the SCHOOLYARD, small boys playing football together.

KOTSIThe ‘great apple robbery’ of Grade 3.

Lebona thinks back - he shrugs.

LEBONAOkay, apart from that one.

21.

Mejo ha e rutanwe, ho rutanwa ditlhare.

KOTSIThe ‘chicken hatchery’ scheme in Grade 5.

Lebona nods.

LEBONAOkay, sure. The underlying principle was fine - it’s just that the execution was lacking.

(A beat)I never knew you held grudges.

KOTSII don’t hold grudges. I’m just not investing in one of your fantasies.

Lebona is hurt.

LEBONAIt’s not a fantasy, it’s a dream - there’s a difference you know. I dreamed I must shave the beard of the Boer.

KOTSIThat would be you - not me.

LEBONAWe have to learn from our history. Otherwise how can we know how to act? We are the great-grandsons of warriors. And we must behave as such.

This is way too much philosophy for Kotsi.

KOTSIWhatever....Maybe that’s true. But so what?

Lebona presses home his advantage.

LEBONASo we have cultural precedents to guide us. This is a business that runs in our blood. That’s why our success is guaranteed. Moshoeshoe is right - it’s simple. We hit the Boer where it hurts - in his pocket.

Kotsi shrugs.

22.

KOTSIOkay, so you’re saying we can make some big bucks.

(A beat)But why would you need my money?

Lebona goes in for the kill.

LEBONAIt’s an investment. Just like you wanted. We’re going to need men and equipment.

Kotsi considers.

KOTSIIt’s true - I could use a quick profit. How much are we talking here? Hypothetically -

Lebona cuts in.

LEBONADouble your money easy. We can clean up in a week.

Kotsi scratches his chin.

KOTSIDouble my money. That quickly?

Lebona nods.

LEBONADouble. No problem.

KOTSIAnd this involves leaving the country, you say?

Lebona shrugs.

LEBONAWell just for a while. We have to go to the Free State. Think of it like a short holiday.

Kotsi considers.

KOTSII could do with a holiday just at the moment.

23.

LEBONAYou see, now!

KOTSI(Decides)

When can we leave?

Lebona hugs him, ecstatic.

LEBONAYou won’t regret it. I promise.

Kotsi drains his Castle. He chuckles.

KOTSIWell if you can pull this one off, then I will personally perform a

war-dance) in your honour.

Lebona smiles.

LEBONAThat I’ll look forward to seeing!

EXT. SHEEP DIP - DAY19 19

Lebona and Kotsi rein in their horses beside a busy sheep dip. They’re sizing up MOLAHLEHI (the Lost One)who’s darting to and fro on his pony, wrangling hundreds of panicky sheep into a pen that funnels them through the dip. He seems to have the virtue of endless patience for these deeply stupid animals.

Lebona leans over his horse’s ear, speaks quietly.

LEBONAHey KUTLOANO (mutual understanding), you want to give our friend Molahlehi a hand?

And in a dazzling display of horsemanship, Lebona guides Kutloano through a spectacular series of twisting and turning quarterhorse moves that stream the lumpen morass of milling sheep effortlessly into the dip.

MOLAHLEHIHai Lebo - you trying to take my job?

24.

Mokorotlo (

Molahlehi’s impressed, his interest aroused, as he lifts his game to match Lebona, laughing and whistling to get the job done.

Kotsi observes from a distance as Lebona pitches his proposal to Molahlehi as they work together.

Then as the last of the sheep pass through, they rein in their horses close together. Molahlehi shakes his head, responds.

MOLAHLEHI (cont’d)Sorry, my friend, this is steady work. At least I get paid at the end of the week.

LEBONASure, but how much? A fistful of Maloti! Where’s the future in that?

MOLAHLEHIWho says there’s a future in your crazy scheme?

Lebona draws from his stock of proverbs.

LEBONA. (God

helps those who help themselves.)

Lebona indicates Kotsi in the background.

LEBONA (CONT'D)Kotsi’s not afraid to take a chance. You know we were born for this job, Molahlehi, where’s your sense of history?

The OWNER at the dip exit holds up his counter, which he has thumbed as every sheep passes.

He shouts out to Molahlehi.

OWNERWhat do you reckon?

This is obviously a ritual between them.

Molahlehi shrugs without thinking, calls back.

MOLAHLEHITwo fifty one.

25.

Moketa ho tsoswa o itekang

They ride up to the Owner, who reaches into his pocket and stumps up the usual ten bucks.

OWNERI hate that! How do you always do that?

They ride up to Kotsi. Molahlehi touches fists with the big guy.

LEBONA(To Kotsi)

Molahlehi wants to hang onto his job here. What can I tell you? The man likes sheep.

Kotsi looks at Molahlehi appraising him. He deadpans.

KOTSIFine - you like sheep...

LEBONAHe’s a sheep kind of guy.

Molahlehi takes the bait hook, line and sinker.

MOLAHLEHINo, I don’t like them. I hate fucking sheep!

LEBONAThey are a bit nervous. You find that?

MOLAHLEHINervous? And stupid! They keep me awake nights.

(A beat)They’re just not relaxing to count.

KOTSIOkay then...

LEBONAThat’s settled.

They shake hands - he’s with them.

26.

EXT. CHIEF’S KRAAL - DAY20 20

TSEBO (Knowledge) is at work in the CHIEF’s kraal, while Molahlehi and Kotsi watch, assessing. Lebona is speaking quietly to Tsebo as he tends to a HEAVILY PREGNANT COW.

LEBONAWouldn’t you rather have cows of your own?

Tsebo shakes his head.

TSEBOYou can’t guarantee that.

LEBONAExactly. That’s why it’s called an adventure.

TSEBOI think you will find it’s called stealing.

LEBONANonsense, my brother. You know what the Boere took from our people. If you think about history, we’re just readjusting the balance.

The CHIEF comes out of his hut, sees the lads there. He approaches the kraal.

CHIEFTsebo, what do these layabouts want?

(Spots Lebona)Ah Moshoeshoe - is that you?

(A beat)Or am I dreaming?

The Chief cracks up into gales of laughter which escalates into a coughing fit. He spits out a gob of phlegm.

Lebona smiles, good-natured. He’s heard all the wisecracks before.

LEBONAHai Chief, what excellent cows you have here. My friend Tsebo is keeping them all in good condition for you.

27.

He quotes an old proverb.

LEBONA (cont’d)‘ ’ they say.(Cattle are the bank of a Mosotho)

The Chief nods.

CHIEFWell I hope you young tsotsis aren’t here trying to make a withdrawal?

Tsebo reflects on the wisdom of Lebona’s astutely chosen proverb for a moment. He speaks as though to himself.

TSEBO.

Lebona watches him taste the words on his tongue.

TSEBO (cont’d).

LEBONAThat’s right.

Then Tsebo makes a decision. He shakes Lebona’s hand and he, Lebona, Kotsi and Molahlehi mount up in silence and ride off together.

CHIEFWait, Tsebo! Where are you going? You can’t just take off like that.

(He shouts after Tsebo)Okay, fine. Don’t bother to come back. You’ll never find work in this village again!

Tsebo shouts back over his shoulder.

TSEBO!

The spluttering threats of the Chief fade into the distance as his indignant form recedes into the distance behind the four horsemen.

28.

Dikgomo ke banka ya Mosotho




INT. GENERAL STORE - DAY21 21

The SHOPKEEPER is totting up the prices of a variety of ITEMS on the wooden counter of his shop, while Kotsi watches, pained at the escalating tally.

Amongst the items on display are PLIERS, BOLT-CUTTERS, various pairs of GLOVES, COILS OF ROPE and so on.

Lebona throws down a large coil of ELECTRICAL FLEX on the counter.

Kotsi looks at him, whines.

KOTSIDude?

The Shopkeeper smiles. He licks his pencil and keeps adding up.

Kotsi, starts to peel notes off his ROLL OF CASH - lays them out on the counter.

EXT. ARMS DEALER’S HUT - DAY22 22

Lebona and Kotsi sit at a WOODEN TABLE outside a rather derelict-looking hut. Kotsi is nursing a warm CASTLE LAGER, while Lebona sips a COKE.

LEBONAI’m not so sure.

KOTSIWhat?

An older man, the ARMS DEALER comes out of the hut carrying a rolled-up BASOTHO BLANKET, which he tenderly unrolls on the table and lays out his merchandise.

LEBONAYou really think we need this stuff?

KOTSIEven Moshoeshoe himself needed guns, dude!

Close on the blanket are what looks like an old bolt-action Lee Enfield rifle from the Boer War, a Webley Mk IV British Army service revolver from about the same period with some .455 inch ammunition and equally battered, but about 50 years more current, an AK47.

29.

The wily Arms Dealer looks at Lebona. He starts up his sales pitch.

ARMS DEALERIn fact, some of these very guns have been traced to Moshoeshoe the First and the Gun Wars.

Lebona’s interest picks up.

LEBONAIs that right?

KOTSII told you I’m not going there with a stick.

Kotsi picks up the revolver, tries some cowboy-style moves, clicking it off.

The Arms Dealer sets up some bottles spaced out on a rock about 20 metres away.

Kotsi loads the revolver and fires off a shot. He misses completely.

He looks disgusted. Hands Lebona the revolver.

Lebona looks at it unconvinced.

LEBONAWhy would I need this?

KOTSIYou never know.

LEBONAWords are more persuasive than bullets.

KOTSII wouldn’t count on it.

Lebona tries to give him back the revolver.

KOTSI (CONT'D)Don’t be a woos - try it out.

Lebona swings up the gun and looses off a shot without really aiming.

One of the bottles EXPLODES.

Kotsi laughs, delighted.

30.

KOTSI (cont’d)You see, now. You’re a natural.

Lebona looks at the Webley with new respect. He hefts it in his hand.

Kotsi picks up the AK47, cradles it lovingly. He loads a curved clip of ammunition and points at the bottles.

The AK, set on automatic, smashes all the bottles to smithereens before leaping up and recoiling out of Kotsi’s control and spraying the entire area, shredding the chairs and table as well.

Lebona and the Arms Dealer dive for cover until Kotsi remembers to let go of the trigger and the shooting subsides.

There is a deathly silence as Lebona and the Arms dealer get back to their feet.

KOTSI (cont’d)That’s what I’m talking about. We’ll take them!

EXT. MOUNTAIN VIEW - DAY23 23

Lebona and Kotsi wait at the rendezvous point outside Menkwaneng overlooking a spectacular mountain vista.

Singly and in pairs, their team of selected riders approaches. Molahlehi and Tsebo drift in first.

They are followed by the sunny, natured LESELI (light, illumination).

LEBONAHai Leseli.

Leseli smiles.

Next, the sombre LEFU (death, misfortune).

KOTSIHai Lefu.

Lefu nods.

And finally, as though against his better judgement, LETSWALO (fear, apprehension).

LEFUMy brother, Letswalo.

31.

LEBONAWelcome.

Together, they are a ragged Magnificent Seven. They form up around Lebona.

KOTSILet’s get this show on the road.

But first, Lebona wants to inspire his men.

LEBONASo here we are, my brothers. It’s time. I want to dedicate this adventure to the spirit of Moshoeshoe the First. It was he who spoke to me in a dream - and I know he will guide us in all that we do. With Moshoeshoe behind us you know we can’t fail. Let’s shave the beard of that Boer!

Lebona leans over his horse’s ear.

LEBONA (cont’d)Ready Kutloano?

(To the crew)Move out!

Kutloano steps delicately onto the track and the rest fall in behind him, one by one.

EXT. SANDSTONE PASSES - DAY24 24

In a montage of riding shots accompanied by the Morricone inspired twangy thome music:

The seven riders gallop towards camera compressed by a long lens.

The phalanx of riders in an arrowhead formation with Lebona at its head.

In mid-shot, Lebona is grim, determined.

In a series of passing shots, the riders strung out in a line along a mountain trail.

The team gallops away past the camera and into the distance.

32.

EXT. JOZI SUBURB - DAY 25 25

Sheriff Msomi watches outside the gate of an UPMARKET HOME as his three feckless hoods from the Lazy Y gang make a ham-fisted attempt to boost a BMW from a determined BUSINESSWOMAN armed with a pepper-spay on her key-ring.

The Businesswoman squirts the pepper-spray at Dozy and Sleepy, who fall to their knees holding their eyes.

DOZYShit!

SLEEPYFuck!

She swings her heavy handbag at the head of Stupid, who falls back.

STUPIDEina!

Sheriff has seen enough. He steps forward to the car window and puts the barrel of his 44 Magnum revolver to the woman’s temple.

SHERIFF MSOMIThe keys.

The Businesswoman switches off the car and hands him the keys.

BUSINESSWOMANPlease don’t kill me. I’ll do whatever you want.

This is not an attractive proposition. Sheriff looks at her coldly.

SHERIFF MSOMIOkay. Get out.

The Lazy Y boys are back on their feet. Sheriff turns to them.

SHERIFF MSOMI (cont’d)Get in the car.

He turns back to the Businesswoman.

SHERIFF MSOMI (cont’d)What I want is to see how fast you can run.

33.

She takes off like a rocket, sprinting.

Sheriff gets into the driving seat of the Beamer and turns it over.

EXT. SUBURBAN STREET - DAY 26 26

The BMW passes down the suburban street. Sheriff looks over at the pavement ahead.

A couple of SUBURBAN JOGGERS in shorts, sneakers and sweat-bands are startled to find themselves being overtaken by a smart woman in a business suit and high heels, who sprints by.

The Joggers exchange looks.

JOGGER 1Power jogging?

JOGGER 2You know, then!

The BMW wipes past.

EXT. DE JONG RANCH - DUSK27 27

The mighty De Jong herd grazes behind electrified fencing, SECURITY VEHICLES passing from time to time.

EXT. BLUFF OVERLOOKING RANCH - DUSK28 28

Revealed on a bluff overlooking the ranch, Lebona stands patiently observing the scene below. He watches the movements of the guards, takes in every detail.

Some of the crew are apprehensive.

LEFUEish!

LETSWALOI don’t know...

Kotsi puts a finger to his lips in warning.

KOTSI(Quietly)

Relax. Let the dog see the rabbit.

34.

Lebona turns, motions Kotsi towards him. He points at the ranch below, whispers quietly into Kotsi’s ear as the others watch and wait.

Kotsi nods, understanding. He urges his horse off down the hill.

EXT. DE JONG RANCH/GATEHOUSE - NIGHT29 29

Kotsi approaches the gatehouse to the De Jong ranch on foot. A SECURITY GUARD comes out to challenge him.

SECURITY GUARDWhat?

Kotsi is playing naive. He affects a deep-rural accent.

KOTSIHai Captain. I want to join up.

SECURITY GUARDJoin up? How do you mean? Join what up?

KOTSIThis work you are doing. This is fantastic. Who must I talk to if I need to get this work?

Kotsi points to the Security Company logo on the gate.

The Security Guard calls over his boss, who is about to climb into a WHITE BAKKIE with the same leopard/tiger logo and the words MAPOGO A MATHAMAGA on it.

The Head of Security, known as MAPOGO, wanders over as Kotsi launches into a long rambling story.

KOTSI (cont’d)Hai General. I myself have always wanted to work on an impressive ranch like this one.

Kotsi smooths some dust off the sleeve of Mapogo’s uniform.

KOTSI (cont’d)This work is a big responsibility. I see you have the gun and you are driving this bakkie.

Mapogo is flattered by Kotsi’s admiration.

35.

MAPOGOIt’s not everyone who can take on this work. Do you have any experience?

Kotsi nods.

KOTSIOh yes, definitely. I have had some experience with criminals in Jozi. I was working in Alex recently.

(A beat)You know, I would love to apply for this work. What can you tell me about it?

Mapogo looks like a man who enjoys the sound of his own voice.

MAPOGOWell our name is drawn from an old Sotho proverb.

KOTSI‘If you, the criminal, conduct yourself like a leopard, remember the victim can change into a tiger.’ My friend told me that one.

MAPOGOAha! You know, then. This is the heart of our system.

(Pompous)There are ten key things that I always tell new recruits.

He counts off on his finger.

KOTSINumber one...

EXT. DE JONG RANCH/FENCE LINE - NIGHT30 30

Lebona and Tsebo leopard-crawl through the brush towards the fence. Tsebo has a coil of electric wire over his shoulder.

Tsebo eventually manages to connect one end of the insulated wire to a terminal of the electric fence. He gets a shock.

TSEBOAi!

36.

LEBONAShh!

Tsebo unrolls his wire down along the ground and up to a terminal further along the fence-line, completing the circuit with a bypass. He gets another shock.

TSEBOAi!

LEBONAShh!

Lebona buries the insulated wire in the sand.

Lebona gestures to Lefu and Leseli who go to work with bolt-cutters, removing a wide section of fence.

EXT. DE JONG RANCH/AMONGST THE HERD - NIGHT31 31

Close, the padded hooves of a horse, wrapped in cloth, moves silently through the forest of legs of the cattle.

It is Molahlehi, who ghosts amongst the herd CLICKING AND HISSING sibilant sounds. He’s shifting them towards the fence.

One cow ‘MOOS’ loudly, breaking the silence.

Lebona hisses to Molahlehi.

LEBONAAsk them to keep it down!

Molahlehi addresses the cows in a hypnotic whisper.

MOLAHLEHIMy sisters, we’re all going home to a beautiful place. But it’s better you keep this a secret.

Gradually, the cattle start to move forward, walking calmly as Molahlehi works his magic with them.

They wander calmly out through the gap in the fenceline, to where Tsebo and the other riders lead them silently away.

Lebona rides up next to Molahlehi.

LEBONAHow many?

Molahlehi shrugs.

37.

MOLAHLEHITwelve hundred and fifty-three.

Lebona smiles.

EXT. DE JONG RANCH/GATEHOUSE - NIGHT32 32

Kotsi looks at his watch as Mapogo rambles on.

MAPOGOAnd the seventh key thing I like to stress...

Kotsi winds up Mapogo’s long peroration.

KOTSII think I have been taking too much of your valuable time, General. I have to thank you for explaining all your duties to me so generously.

MAPOGOThat’s okay. I like to encourage a polite young man who is interested in this profession. It is not one for sissies!

KOTSIThat is for sure, my General. Thanks to you, I now understand where I lack some of the essential qualities that would help me to progress in this field. Still, I will live in hope. My application will be in the post.

The two men part, waving to each other amicably, and Kotsi disappears into the night, followed by the sound of HOOFBEATS receding as he regains his mount and rides to join the others.

EXT. DE JONG RANCH/BEYOND FENCELINE - NIGHT33 33

Bathed in the light of a full moon, the Rustlers lead their vast herd off towards the hills, snaking along at an ambling gait.

Close, Lebona reigns in his horse and looks back, surveying the scene with immense satisfaction. Kotsi pulls up beside him and they slap hands.

38.

Lebona looks back at the ranch below where two headlights cut through the night.

EXT. DE JONG RANCH - NIGHT34 34

Closer, it’s the WHITE BAKKIE with the leopard logo on it. It’s patrolling the fenceline.

I/E. MAPOGO BAKKIE - NIGHT35 35

Inside the bakkie, MAPOGO is tooling along SINGING TUNELESSLY at the top of his voice. He takes a long swig from a bottle clenched between his legs.

Mapogo glances idly out at the fenceline, then he double-takes, stands on the brakes.

MAPOGOYoh!

Mapogo jumps out of the cab of the bakkie, upending his bottle of beer in the process.

He runs over to the fence-line where a huge section is missing.

Mapogo stands in the gap, head swinging wildly, eyes wide. It is dawning on him that the herd has gone.

MAPOGO (cont’d)Yoh!

EXT. DE JONG RANCH-HOUSE - NIGHT36 36

Kobus de Jong bursts out of his front door to confront the nervous Mapogo with a face like thunder.

KOBUSMapogo, whatever you want at this time of night, it better be fokken important!

EXT. RUSTLERS’ VALLEY - NIGHT37 37

The still night is rent by the sound of a SIREN. Back on the ranch, the alarm has been raised.

Lebona looks back toward’s De Jong’s farm compound way off in the distance.

39.

LEBONALet’s move it, my friends. The jackals awake.

EXT. DE JONG RANCH-HOUSE - NIGHT38 38

Kobus interrogates Mapogo, who in turn interrogates the assembled workers.

KOBUSI know these foks. Ungrateful bastards. This is an inside job!

Mapogo, lines up the workers, a SJAMBOK in his hand.

MAPOGONo problem, . I can sjambok them, easy.

Pacing up and down the line, Kobus stares deep into each quaking man’s soul. He knows they can hide nothing from him.

KOBUSMapogo - what do I pay you for?

MAPOGOSecurity, .

KOBUSExactly, security! So how come you haven’t got a fokken clue?

MAPOGO?

KOBUSA thousand head of prime beef don’t just vanish into the mist. Where do you think they’ve got to?

Mapogo thinks. He makes a tentative suggestion.

MAPOGOLesotho?

This seems to amuse the assembled workers.

Kobus shouts very close to Mapogo’s ear.

KOBUSNot WHERE, you idiot, I know Lesotho - I mean WHO not WHERE!

40.

Meneer

Meneer

Meneer

EXT. RUSTLERS’ VALLEY - NIGHT 39 39

Kotsi rides up alongside Lebona.

KOTSISo what’s the plan?

Lebona shrugs.

LEBONAWhat plan? We’ve got the guy’s herd - now we run.

EXT. SANDSTONE LANDSCAPE - NIGHT40 40

Driving a QUAD BIKE, Kobus leads the charge of bakkies with spotlights criss-crossing the terrain. It’s chaos.

EXT. RUSTLERS’ VALLEY - NIGHT41 41

Kotsi looks back towards the hive of activity behind them.

KOTSIHang on, dude. What did you tell me about the chickens? ‘The principle was fine, but the execution was lacking’. Isn’t that what you told me?

LEBONAOkay, okay. I get your point.

KOTSIThose guys will be all over us soon like a cheap suit. What’s the next move, oh great warrior?

Lebona looks around at the landscape. He considers.

LEBONAWell I know what our forefathers used to do.

KOTSIGreat. Let’s do that - like the old guys. But quick.

Lebona urges his horse ahead and scouts ahead through the monumental sandstone outcrops.

41.

Then he turns back and falls in beside Molahlehi. He points ahead.

LEBONAMove them down into the bottom of that gulch there.

Molahlehi nods, starts to whistle and signals to the others to turn the herd.

As they start moving across the sandstone and drop into the valley, the herd seems to disappear in the shadows.

EXT. TOP OF RUSTLERS’ VALLEY - NIGHT42 42

Standing on a vantage-point overlooking the network of gulches worn into the sandstone landscape, Kobus and Mapogo discuss the situation.

MAPOGOThey’ve disappeared.

Kobus looks around him. The terrain seems completely empty.

KOBUSDon’t talk kak. They can’t disappear. They’ve taken them down into one of these gulches.

Mapogo nods.

MAPOGOWe won’t get the bakkies down there, Meneer. We’re going to need horses for that.

Kobus considers.

KOBUSThey can’t move that herd very quickly at night.

MAPOGONo, sir, they can’t. We can pick up their trail in the morning.

KOBUSBastards! This isn’t over. We’ll see who’s laughing tomorrow.

42.

I/E. BMW/FREEWAY - DAWN 43 43

Sheriff Msomi drives the boosted Beamer while the Lazy Y boys argue about how to get the GARMIN GPS system to work.

Sleepy is full of advice from the back seat.

SLEEPYNo man, go to Menu.

STUPIDIt’s not that easy.

SHERIFF MSOMIHow hard can it be? You just put in Lesotho!

STUPIDThat’s too wide, boss, from what I am seeing. You need like ‘Number 1 Main Street, Maseru’.

Sleepy is scornful.

SLEEPYBut maybe Kotsi doesn’t live atNumber 1 Main Street, Maseru.

Stupid pushes a button.

STUPIDWhat about ‘points of interest’?

Sheriff nods, approving. He looks over to see.

SHERIFF MSOMIOkay, press Casino. What other points of interest can these moegoes have?

(Thinks)How big can Lesotho be anyway? Its got less people than Soweto!

He puts his foot on the gas and the BMW shoots over the horizon.

EXT. RUSTLERS’ VALLEY - DAWN 44 44

As the first light breaks over Rustlers’ Valley, Kobus towers erect astride his magnificent BOERPERD STALLION like some mythical image of Koos De La Rey transported in time to this very hilltop from the Basotho War of 1865.

43.

Mapogo and some TRACKERS grub around in the dust analysing the spoor.

Mapogo points down into the valley towards a particular gulch and he and the trackers mount up and ride.

EXT. BORDER RIVER-BED - DAWN 45 45

Faced with a wide, swiftly-flowing river Lebona and the Rustlers take stock of the situation.

LETSWALOJesus!

Lebona sees his dismay. He tries to rally the troops.

LEBONAOkay, one last push. Then we’re home and dry.

KOTSIDry?

LEBONAWell okay, maybe not dry. Back in Lesotho.

Letswalo looks around, desperate.

LETSWALOYou want to go over the river?

LEBONAWe’re going home, aren’t we?

He looks at Kotsi.

LEBONA (cont’d)That’s the plan.

Letswalo shakes his head.

LETSWALOI can’t go over there.

Lebona looks at him, disbelieving.

LEBONAWhat do you mean, you can’t go over there? Where do you want to go? That’s where we live.

44.

LETSWALOLook, it’s just -

Lebona suddenly guesses the problem.

LEBONAYou can’t swim?

Letswalo shrugs.

LETSWALOIt’s not natural.

Lebona and Kotsi both laugh.

KOTSILetswalo, you check, it’s the horse has to swim.

Lebona nods.

LEBONAYou just sit on the horse.

Letswalo is not convinced.

LETSWALOWhat if my horse can’t swim either? How would he know how to swim if I can’t?

LEBONACome on, my friend. There’s no time for this.

Lebona motions to Kotsi, who whoops and crashes into the water, leading the way.

The others start to drive the cattle into the river behind him.

EXT. VANTAGE POINT ABOVE RIVER - DAWN46 46

Kobus, Mapogo and the trackers arrive at a vantage point looking down on the river far below.

Mapogo points.

MAPOGOThe border.

45.

KOBUSI know what the damn border looks like!

Kobus raises a pair of binoculars to his eyes.

Below, from Kobus’ POV through the binocular lenses, his herd is swimming across the river.

EXT. BORDER RIVER-BED - DAWN 47 47

Lebona looks back across the river. Letswalo is frozen on the bank - he still can’t get up the nerve to cross.

Lebona swims his horse back over to Letswalo.

Seen from a distance, he remonstrates with Letswalo. But it’s no good. Letswalo shakes his head. His fear is too strong.

Lebona sees that he’s wasting his time.

LEBONAIt’s fine. You go round the way we came. It might be long, but it’s dry.

LETSWALOI’ll move fast. Without cattle it’s quick. You won’t be short for long.

Lebona smiles.

LEBONADon’t worry, we’ll manage. Find us when you can. We’ll camp near Semonkong later.

LETSWALOOkay.

LEBONAI was thinking the Maletsunyane Falls.

Letswalo nods.

LETSWALOSee you there.

He watches as Lebona urges his horse back across the river and up the opposite bank, to disappear into the undergrowth on the far side.

46.

Letswalo turns his horse and makes his way along the bank into the tree-line just as:

Kobus and his men clatter down the slope to the river-bank, Kobus leading the charge.

Kobus urges his horse forward into the torrent, but swings round and turns back as the others all stop at the river’s edge.

KOBUSWhat now? Please don’t tell me you can’t fokken swim?

MAPOGO, we can’t go that side of

the river.

KOBUSYou mean you’re too chicken-shit! There goes my herd!

Mapogo shakes his head. He’s adamant.

MAPOGOMaybe can go where he wants. My organisation has rules.

Kobus can’t believe what he’s hearing.

KOBUSRules? You crazy? What fokken rules?

MAPOGOWe can’t chase thieves over there.

(He points)That, over there, is another country. That’s when you have to call Interpol.

EXT. RIVER-BANK/TREES - DAY48 48

Letswalo peers out from the trees where he’s hidden. He’s been following all this nervously, camouflaged amongst the trees.

Then a leaf tickles his nose, and Letswalo can’t restrain an almighty SNEEZE.

Kobus, swings round and spots him hidden there.

47.

Meneer

Meneer

At a signal from Kobus they all converge on the hapless Letswalo, who breaks from the bushes and bolts.

EXT. LESOTHO BORDER LANDSCAPE - DAY49 49

The Rustlers, now reduced to a Magnificent 6, push the herd into a run. They’re whooping and hollering, celebrating the success of their mission.

The herd is running smoothly, this drive like a well-oiled machine, with each man part of the joyous flow.

EXT. RIVER-BANK/LARGE TREE - DAY 50 50

Letswalo is tied to a tree on the riverbank. Mapogo cracks his sjambok.

MAPOGOWhat were you doing there hiding?

LETSWALOWhat hiding? It’s a free country. I was just passing by.

Mapogo cracks his sjambok again. This time closer.

MAPOGOYou don’t know about any cattle?

LETSWALOI don’t know about anything. I’m going to Ficksburg.

MAPOGOYou’re not rustling cattle?

Letswalo shakes his head nervously.

Mapogo holds out his hand.

MAPOGO (cont’d)Spit here.

LETSWALOSorry?

MAPOGOSpit in my hand.

Kobus is impatient.

48.

KOBUSMapogo, what the fok are you doing?

Mapogo taps the side of his nose, wisely.

MAPOGOThat’s what we call an investigative technique. If the suspect is telling the truth he will spit, if he’s lying his mouth will be dry and he’ll fail.

KOBUSBullshit! I don’t have time for this.

Mapogo looks at Letswalo.

MAPOGOSpit!

Letswalo works his mouth, but no spittle will come.

Kobus looks at Mapogo with renewed appreciation.

Mapogo unleashes his sjambok. He makes Letswalo dance - spurts of dust puffing up around his feet as he yelps.

Kobus gestures for Mapogo to stop. He looms over Letswalo, pats him on the cheek. He speaks in English.

KOBUSLet me tell you the deal. For the last time. I am going to ask you where my herd has gone.

He reaches out to tuck a R100 note into Letswalo’s breast pocket.

KOBUS (cont’d)Now if you tell me what I want to know I’ll buy you a one-way ticket to Pondoland, or Phalaborwa, or Poffadder - anywhere with a P in it.

(A beat)Not Lesotho because Lesotho doesn’t have a P.

His voice rises to a crescendo.

49.

KOBUS (cont’d)And you won’t have a P to piss with if you don’t tell me where my fokken cows are going!

(A beat)Do we understand each other?

Letswalo nods vigorously.

Kobus turns to Mapogo, taps the side of his nose.

KOBUS (cont’d)Now that’s what I call an investigative technique!

EXT. LESOTHO FOOTHILLS/CAMP - DAY 51 51

Nestled in some undulating foothills, Lebona and the Rustlers camp near the Maletsunyane Falls, a 192 metre ‘horsetail’ drop which is the largest in Southern Africa.

They set about re-branding the cattle with an iron Lebona’s devised. It cunningly changes Kobus’ ‘Ko’ brand, into ‘LeBo’, for Lebona.

It’s a classic helter-skelter musical montage of cutting, roping and branding.

The Rustlers LAUGH maniacally at each others’ efforts as they slip and slide, dragged on the end of a rope.

They WHOOP and CHEER as each man brings down a cow on its side to be branded.

They SNIGGER when Lefu lands on his butt.

CUT TO LATER:

EXT. LESOTHO FOOTHILLS/CAMP - DUSK52 52

Towards dusk, the Rustlers finish off the last cow, release it into a brush kraal they’ve constructed in the valley near the camp.

A cow turns on a spit over a large fire, as the first invited locals turn up for the feast in celebration of their victory.

Local villagers crowd into the camp, bringing beer. Young women cook pots of pap on the fires.

50.

Lebona looks on. He’s happy.

CUT TO LATER:

EXT. LESOTHO FOOTHILLS/CAMP - NIGHT53 53

Kotsi leads the Rustlers in his promised war-dance in honour of Lebona. Traditionally reserved to honour the chief, it entails a rhythmical backward and forward swinging action accompanied by the stamping of feet.

Kotsi sings the lead in a rather incongruous high-pitched voice, while the others accompany him in a deep throaty refrain.

Lebona watches, smiling. He’s in his element.

From time to time, one or other of the Rustlers breaks away from the group to dance in front of Lebona, miming a battle attack.

The men stamp and strut aggressively, periodically leaping up and firing their guns into the air.

Kotsi motions for quiet - he wants to give a speech.

He raises his beer to Lebona.

KOTSIHere’s to my good friend, Lebona. He shaved the Boer’s beard - just as he promised us!

Kotsi drinks deeply. They all toast and drink.

Lebona stands up.

LEBONAThanks to all of you for believing in me. We are tasting the first fruits of victory. So my brothers, eat your meat and drink your fill. We’re safe now - the Boer will never find us!

The Rustlers all cheer - they’ll drink to that.

CUT TO LATER:

51.

Mokorotlo

EXT. RUSTLERS’ CAMP/DYING FIRE - NIGHT54 54

That night, Lebona’s sleep is troubled. He tosses and turns by the dying campfire.


A thick cloud of red dust blows across the familiar abstract landscape of Lebona’s dream.

But this time, the DRUMMING SOUND grows louder and louder. It’s like the drums of the dance. MEN SHOUT OUT LEBONA’S NAME, GUNS FIRING and finally the herd of CATTLE RUNNING, their hooves mingling with the drumming sound as they disappear into the cloud of red dust.

EXT. RUSTLERS’ CAMP/LOOKOUT SPOT - DAWN 56 56

Kotsi is on watch on the hillside. He’s playing Lebona’s thome and singing to the cows to soothe them.

Then Kotsi seems to hear a SOUND in the distance. He stops playing, looks around him. He stands up but can’t seem to locate the source of the distant HUM in the wind.

Close, Kotsi looks disconcerted.

He starts to walk down the hill to the camp.

EXT. LESOTHO FOOTHILLS/CAMP - DAWN57 57

Kotsi’s hand shakes a blanketed form.

Lebona jerks bolt upright. Around him the campsite is filled with the sound of his SNORING crew.

LEBONAWhat?

KOTSII don’t know. We need to get going.

Lebona is disoriented.

LEBONAI...I was having a dream.

KOTSIYou amaze me.

52.

Mokorotlo

He calls out to rouse the crew.

KOTSI (CONT'D)Wake up!

LEBONARelax. Let them sleep it off. We’re fine now.

Kotsi shakes off Lebona’s restraining hand. He starts rousing the others.

KOTSICome on you lazy pricks - rise and shine!

The Rustlers wake up bleary eyed and hung over.

LEFUWhat’s the big hurry?

Kotsi reacts.

KOTSIThe big hurry is there’s a job to be done. It’s not over ‘til the auctioneer sings!

Lebona throws some sticks on the fire and coaxes it back into life. He puts a COFFEE POT on to boil.

LEBONAI wish you’d relax. You don’t have to worry. I dreamed of the victory celebration.

Kotsi turns away, he looks worried. He looks around as though listening for the sound in the wind.

KOTSIShh!

LEBONAMoshoeshoe won’t fail us, believe me. I’d know if there was a problem...

Kotsi calls out.

KOTSILebona! SHUT UP!

They all turn to Kotsi, who holds up a hand.

53.

In the sudden silence, they can hear the THRUMMING sound off in the distance. Is that the sound of the Lebona’s drums?

Lebona is galvanised into action. He runs to his horse, leaps on and urges it up the hillside to the top.

Kotsi screams at the Rustlers.

KOTSI (cont’d)Move your asses - mount up!

EXT. CREST OF HILL - MOMENTS LATER 58 58

Lebona gallops to the top of the hill. He arrives just as:

A dark menacing CHOPPER crests the hill right in front of him.

Lebona’s horse spooks - rears up on its hind legs.

And for one brief instant in the spotlight, Lebona’s face is imprinted on the eyes of Kobus, who is sat in the passenger seat of the chopper.

A look of mutual recognition passes between them, mirroring their face-off in the casino bar.

Then Lebona turns his horse and gallops off down the hill.

LEBONARun for it!

EXT. LESOTHO FOOTHILLS/CAMP - CONTINUOUS59 59

As Lebona gallops, the Chopper swoops low behind him.

Kotsi SHOUTS.

KOTSILebona - look out!

The Rustlers mount up and scatter, SHOUTING out warnings and imprecations, FIRING THEIR GUNS in the air.

But as the Chopper swoops low again, intent on decapitation, Kotsi lets loose with his AK47.

His random spray of bullets is comically inept, but it does force the Chopper up again.

54.

INT. CHOPPER COCKPIT - CONTINUOUS60 60

The PILOT pulls the Chopper up and away as BULLET HITS rake the cockpit.

KOBUSDown! GO DOWN! Don’t let this scumsucker get away!

Kobus tries to level his gun through the window.

INSERT CLOSE ON THE FUEL GAUGE AS THE NEEDLE GOES DOWN

The Pilot turns to Kobus.

PILOTThe tank must be hit. We have to go back.

KOBUSPut it down here.

The Pilot looks at him, shakes his head.

PILOTThere’s at least ten of those fuckers, armed to the teeth. There’s no way I’m going down there.

He pulls back on the joystick. The chopper veers away.

KOBUS (V.O.)PUSSY!

EXT. RUSTLERS’ CAMP/CATTLE KRAAL - MOMENTS LATER61 61

The Chopper disappears towards the horizon as Kotsi continues to loose off his AK47 in their approximate direction.

The SCREAMING, the GUNFIRE, the NOISE of the Chopper - in fact the exact soundtrack to Lebona’s nightmare - all this has combined to spook the herd.

In a montage of close shots they start to move, eyes wild, hooves pawing the ground. They break into a walk, jostling, then a run.

The herd breaks through the thorn scrub fence of the Kraal, the pressure from behind urging them forward.

55.

Now it’s a full-blown stampede. Trailing a plume of dust, the herd clatters off into the distance, dispersing.

CUT TO LATER:

EXT. LESOTHO FOOTHILLS/CAMP - DAY62 62

In the cold light of day, the full extent of the disaster is apparent.

The campsite is trampled, the cattle have bolted. And the Rustlers picking through the detritus of the campsite are discouraged and mutinous.

TSEBOI knew it! I had a steady job.

MOLAHLEHIIt’s okay for him to have dreams. What about us?

LEFUJa - where’s all his promises now?

Lebona comes up to them, but they can’t meet his eyes.

LEBONALook guys, I’m sorry. I didn’t expect this...

Tsebo is bitter.

TSEBODon’t worry about us.

(Sarcastic).

Lebona shrugs.

LEBONAWe’d better split up. You guys should spread out and make your way home. We want to avoid attracting attention.

Molahlehi is bitter, sarcastic.

MOLAHLEHIOh I think we’ll attract some attention back home. We’ll be the laughing stock of the village.

56.


And one by one they turn their heads and walk away from him, leaving Lebona standing alone.

CUT TO LATER:

EXT. RUSTLERS’ CAMP - DAY63 63

Now, it’s just Lebona and Kotsi left. Lebona looks at Kotsi who shakes his head with regret at this disaster.

KOTSICan’t hang around here. The Boer could be back any time.

Lebona nods.

LEBONAJa.

(A beat)Look, I know this isn’t the time to ask you for a favour...

KOTSIYou’re right. It isn’t.

LEBONAJust on your way home...

Kotsi sighs.

KOTSIWhat now?

LEBONAYou couldn’t pass through and pick up Palesa? I want you to take her home with you.

KOTSIWhy’s that, then? I’ve got to tell you, Palesa’s transport problems aren’t high on my list right now.

LEBONAThat Boer recognised me, I’d swear to it.

KOTSIWhat, from the chopper? I really doubt that....You know we all look the same to these guys.

57.

LEBONANo, really. I saw his face and it wasn’t pretty. He might go and look for Palesa to find me.

Kotsi shrugs.

KOTSIWhat about you? What are you going to do?

Lebona looks around at the devastation.

LEBONAI can’t give this up.


KOTSIDude, it’s over. Forget the Boer now. Okay, so he whipped us. But we did our best. It’s not like the good old days any more.

Lebona is thoughtful.

LEBONAI don’t care about losing. It’s not about him. But I really need those cattle.

Kotsi laughs mirthlessly.

KOTSIForget the cows, dude. It’s finished. They’re scattered all over Lesotho by now.

Lebona shrugs.

LEBONAYou tell Palesa I’m doing my best.

(a beat)I’ll see you back home.

Kotsi mounts up.

KOTSISure. Whatever...

He rides off.

58.

EXT. DE JONG RANCH - DAY64 64

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, an eye takes aim down the long barrel of an elephant gun and looses a shot with a BANG.

A BABOON SKULL stood on a fence-post 150 yards across the paddock EXPLODES - shatters into a thousand pieces.

De Jong packs the gun into the 1966 eight-cylinder MUSTANG CONVERTIBLE parked in the middle of a field.

He whistles for his prized Boerperd stallion, which gallops up to him and allows himself to be led into the horsebox hitched to the back of the Mustang.

I/E. FREE STATE ROAD - DAY65 65

The Mustang, with the Horsebox hitched behind, powers along the tarmac road from Ficksburg to the border.

Kobus, eyes narrowed, stares straight ahead like some grim nemesis.

EXT. LESOTHO BORDER POST - DAY66 66

Kobus swings into the Lesotho Border Post parking lot, parks, and walks inside.

INT. LESOTHO BORDER POST - DAY67 67

A hick IMMIGRATION OFFICER confronts Sheriff Msomi with his lack of travel documents. He speaks in English.

IMMIGRATION OFFICERPassport?

SHERIFF MSOMISorry?

IMMIGRATION OFFICERPassport!

Sheriff is clearly surprised by this request.

SHERIFF MSOMIWhy would we need a pass book any more? This is the new South Africa, isn’t it?

59.

The long-suffering IMMIGRATION OFFICER sighs. He jerks a thumb over his shoulder towards where they’ve just come from.

IMMIGRATION OFFICERThat is the new South Africa.

He points a finger in front of him.

IMMIGRATION OFFICER (cont’d)This is the old Lesotho.

SHERIFF MSOMIJa, but it’s all still Africa, isn’t it? How come we need some papers to move?

The Immigration Officer is unmoved by his argument. He sighs deeply, holds out his hand.

Sheriff Msomi looks down at the hand, applies some lateral thinking.

SHERIFF MSOMI (cont’d)Let me explain you a thing. I’m from Alex?

IMMIGRATION OFFICERAnd so?

SHERIFF MSOMIAnd so I reserve my constitutional right to resolve this according to my cultural customs.

Sheriff pulls out a wad of cash from his pocket. He slaps it into the Guard’s hand.

With the Lazy Y boys leaning over persuasively, the Guard feels it best to pocket the gift.

He waves them on their way.

Kobus shakes his head, disapproving. He slaps his PASSPORT on the counter.

EXT. LESOTHO BORDER POST - DAY68 68

In the car-park of the border-post, Sheriff stops gobsmacked. His Lazy Y henchmen all pile up behind him like a multi-car crash. Sheriff has seen the Mustang parked there.

Close, in his eyes, it is love at first sight.

60.

Sheriff goes across to admire the immaculately polished Mustang convertible gleaming and sparkling in the sunlight. He runs his hand lovingly over the bonnet, caresses the hood ornament.

Sheriff starts to try the driver’s side door, just as:

Kobus steps out of the border-post doorway.

KOBUSHEY! DON’T TOUCH!

Sheriff turns as Kobus approaches. The Border Guard comes out to see what the fuss is.

Sheriff decides on discretion.

SHERIFF MSOMINice car.

Kobus is brusque.

KOBUSJa, it is.

He pushes past and gets in.

Sheriff listens admiringly as the V8 engine roars into life and Kobus pulls out.

EXT. LESOTHO FOOTHILLS/THORN THICKET - DAY69 69

Lebona has located one of his missing cattle in the midst of a thicket of thorn bush.

With a comic degree of difficulty, he manages to stalk it, tries to lasso it. But the cow keeps eluding him as Lebona keeps pricking himself on the thorns.

A couple of passing ten-year old HERD BOYS stop to watch all these antics with barely-disguised amusement.


In her room at the Maseru Sun, Kotsi grabs handfuls of Palesa’s clothes from her cupboard, stuffs them into her bag.

PALESAKotsi! Will you stop that! I’m not going anywhere.

Kotsi carries on packing.

61.

KOTSILebona says you need to go home.

PALESAWell, I’m not interested in what Lebona says. He just disappears - not a word!

KOTSIWe’ve been working.

Palesa seems dubious.

PALESAOh really. What work is that?

KOTSIMen’s work.

Palesa is not impressed. She’s sarcastic

PALESAOh men’s work? That would be a first. The men I know don’t do any work!

KOTSICome on. It’s serious. We gotta get going.

Palesa resists.

PALESAWhy didn’t Lebona come here himself? He has some explaining to do.

Kotsi looks at his watch. He’s tired of this shit - he doesn’t have time.

He picks up Palesa and swings her up onto his ample shoulder, kicking and protesting. He grabs her bag with his free hand and heads out of the room.

EXT. MASERU SUN/ALLEYWAY - DAY71 71

Kotsi bursts through a side door into the alleyway where his horse waits patiently, tied to a WHEELY BIN.

Kotsi tries to load the reluctant Palesa onto the back of his horse.

62.

PALESANo way - no! HELP!

At that moment, two traditional-looking OLD MEN with sticks round the corner. Palesa sees them.

PALESA (cont’d)Please - help me! This man is kidnapping me!

The Old Men stop, assessing the scene in silence.

Kotsi shrugs, apologetic. A beat.

Then the Old Men give him a wink of approval - the thumbs-up, and they turn a blind eye and walk on.

PALESA (cont’d)Oh great! Typical. Thanks very much.

EXT. MASERU BOTTLE-STORE - DAY72 72

Sheriff Msomi walks out of a bottle-store in the main street, directly opposite the Maseru Sun. He hears SCREAMS issuing from an alleyway up the block.

He looks in that direction, just as:

The Mustang Convertible pulls up outside the Casino, Kobus at the wheel. Kobus jumps out and goes into the hotel.

Sheriff is instantly distracted. He walks purposefully across towards the beautiful car. His hand grips the door-handle just as:

Kotsi gallops past with Palesa behind him.

Sheriff catches a brief glimpse of his quarry - double takes.

A smile of grim satisfaction spreads over Sheriff Msomi’s unprepossessing features.

SHERIFF MSOMI(To himself)

Points of interest!

He turns to round up the Lazy Y boys.

63.

EXT. LESOTHO FOOTHILLS/THORN THICKET - DAY73 73

From a distance, it looks like Lebona is trying to sell his cow to the two young Herd Boys without much success. He is gesticulating a lot, pointing at the cow, indicating himself.

The two Boys shake their heads dubiously, examine the brand closely.


Inside Palesa’s room, the rather camp DUTY MANAGER indicates the empty cupboard, the open drawers - the room showing signs of a hasty departure.

He tuts in disapproval.

DUTY MANAGER(English)

Will you just look at this mess?Well good riddance to her, that’s what I say.

KOBUSShe’s gone?

The Manager shrugs.

DUTY MANAGERI would say so. She certainly didn’t show up for her shift. The pretty young barman came whining about that.

(Gossips)I think he’s got a bit of a crush on her.

KOBUSAnd her boyfriend?

The Manager makes a horrified gesture.

DUTY MANAGERDarling, please, - spare me the details! It’s hard to keep up with their personal lives. I just know she’s not on the premises.

64.

INT. MASERU SUN/OFFICE BEHIND RECEPTION - DAY75 75

The Duty Manager digs into a filing cabinet. Riffling through, he manages to unearth Palesa’s file.

DUTY MANAGERYou couldn’t possibly imagine what my job is like. These young girls come and go all the time. They’re not what I’d call reliable. Give me a male waitron every time.

(A beat)But the customers here just won’t go for it. You wouldn’t believe all the hanky-panky!

He writes something on a pink post-it note - gives it to De Jong.

Close, it’s Palesa’s address - Menkwaneng.

Kobus nods curtly.

KOBUSOkay.

The Duty Manager is flirtatiously optimistic.

DUTY MANAGERAnything else I can do for you?

But Kobus is already halfway through the door.

EXT. MASERU SUN - DAY76 76

With a screech of tyres, the Mustang pulls away from the kerb outside the Casino.

EXT. MAIN ROAD OUTSKIRTS OF MASERU - DAY77 77

Kotsi rides his horse along the road leading up to the hills through the outskirts of Maseru. It looks like Palesa’s still bending his ear.

Then a BMW pulls alongside. Sheriff Msomi extends an arm holding a big .44 Magnum revolver.

Kotsi sees the car, sees Sheriff. Palesa rattles on behind him, oblivious.

65.

PALESAThis is really not on. You’re going to regret this...

Palesa follows his eyes, sees the gun - and her rant trails off mid sentence.


Lebona rides Kutloano through a wide lonely landscape. He is driving his single cow before him.

As he rides, Lebona speaks to the horse.

LEBONALook, it’s not so bad. I can fix this. Anyone can misinterpret a dream.

(A beat)Maybe it’s just a case of reducing our expectations a little.

Kutloano ignores him.

EXT. MENKWANENG/MAIN STREET - DAY79 79

Lebona drives his lone cow down the main street of Menkwaneng. He looks for Kotsi, but Kotsi’s favourite chair outside the saloon is empty.

EXT. LEBONA’S HUT - DAY80 80

Lebona arrives home, drives his cow into the kraal beside his house.

Kotsi comes out of the hut. He speaks in a low voice.

KOTSIWe have a small problem.

Lebona closes the gate, starts to unsaddle his horse.

LEBONAIt’s not as bad as it looks. No problems, only solutions.

As he speaks, Palesa’s voice calls out from his hut.

PALESALEBONA?

66.

Lebona looks up as:

Palesa emerges from his hut, one arm held firmly by Sheriff Msomi.

PALESA (cont’d)Can you please tell me what’s going on here?

Lebona’s amazed, turns on Kotsi.

LEBONAWhat’s going on?

Lebona takes a step forward towards Sheriff Msomi, but seeing the Lazy Y Boys makes him stop.

SHERIFF MSOMIThat’s a very good question. Let me explain. From what he tells me, your friend Kotsi here has invested my cash in a lucrative cattle deal.

LEBONA(To Kotsi)

His cash?

Sheriff looks at the lone cow in the pen.

SHERIFF MSOMIAnd while I realise my Jozi eyes are better with cars than with cows, I don’t see how one cow will do the trick.

PALESALebona? Who is this guy?

Lebona shrugs, looks at Kotsi.

LEBONAWho - ?

Sheriff cuts him short.

SHERIFF MSOMIYou understand that this money was part of a lucrative business undertaking to import a consignment of high-grade Lesotho product for my business in Alex.

Lebona looks at Kotsi.

67.

LEBONAYour money was his money?

Kotsi shrugs.

KOTSIIn a way...

Sheriff corrects Kotsi.

SHERIFF MSOMIIn every way!

(A beat)This fat bullshit artist explicitly promised me that he had good connections amongst the high-country export merchants of this miserable Kingdom.

PALESAOh my god!

Sheriff ignores her.

SHERIFF MSOMINow I’m out by a considerable sum which is increasing daily at a high rate of interest. In fact, you might say the meter is running.

Palesa tries to pull her arm free of Sheriff’s grip.

PALESAWhat’s all this got to do with me?

To Sheriff.

LEBONAThis has got nothing to do with the woman.

SHERIFF MSOMIAh yes. In one way you’re right. But think of her as a form of insurance.

Lebona considers. He starts to re-saddle Kutloano

LEBONALook, if that’s all you want, I’ll get you your stuff...

68.

SHERIFF MSOMICorrect! And your girlfriend will wait here with us.

KOTSIWhat about me? I should go too.

Sheriff considers.

SHERIFF MSOMII think your best plan is to shut the fuck up. Your friend with the brains, who took all my money, must sort out this fine mess he’s got us all into!

Lebona turns towards Sheriff.

LEBONAI’ll do this on one condition.

Sheriff looks at Lebona.

SHERIFF MSOMII don’t think you’re in a position to make conditions.

Lebona is adamant.

LEBONAI want to speak to Palesa.

Sheriff shrugs, releases her arm.

SHERIFF MSOMIMake it quick.

LEBONAAlone.

Sheriff pulls out his .44. He indicates that they should go into the kraal with the cow.

SHERIFF MSOMITwo minutes. I’m watching you.

EXT. LEBONA’S HUT/CATTLE KRAAL - DAY81 81

Lebona takes Palesa out of earshot, speaks in a low voice.

LEBONAAre you okay?

69.

PALESAWhat does it look like?

(She explodes)What the hell do you guys think you’re playing at?

LEBONAI’m sorry. I didn’t expect this.

PALESANo, ‘sorry’ just doesn’t do it Lebona. This time we’re not in one of your dreams.

(A beat)And it’s not just us - there’s a baby to think of.

LEBONABaby? What baby?

(It dawns on him)Congratulations?

(A beat)I didn’t think -

Palesa cuts in.

PALESAExactly! That’s the whole point - you didn’t think.

(She shakes her head.)You know what your trouble is, Lebona? You don’t really think about anything. You just blow with the wind, wait for some sort of sign. I’m sick and tired of Moshoeshoe, okay? When are you going to stand up for yourself?

LEBONALook...I know...

All Palesa’s frustrations come pouring out.

PALESABetter still, when are you going to stand up for me? You have to start taking this seriously. This is our problem and we have to deal with it. You can’t just wait for help from your ancestor - I’m sure he wants you to think for yourself.

70.

LEBONANo, you’re right. I can sort all this out.

Palesa shakes her head.

PALESAYou know what, Lebona, I think it’s too late. My father was right, I was stupid. If me and this baby get out alive, I’m going to have to make my own plans.

(A beat)And don’t expect to be part of them.

Lebona is shattered.

LEBONADon’t be like that. I’ll work it out. Trust me.

Palesa shakes her head.

PALESAI did trust you - that was my problem. And now it’s time for us both to grow up!

(A beat)From now on you’re on your own.

Sheriff comes over towards them. He waves the gun.

SHERIFF MSOMIThat’s enough of this domestic bullshit. I can’t afford to hang around here. This time tomorrow your friend Kotsi’s dead.

Sheriff grabs Palesa’s arm and pulls her away.

SHERIFF MSOMI (cont’d)And as for the chick, I’ll think of a plan. She’ll have to work off your debt back in Alex.

Lebona tries to calm Sheriff down, reassures him.

LEBONARelax. There’s really no problem.

He speaks to Palesa.

71.

LEBONA (cont’d)I’ll fix this, okay?

Palesa turns away from him.

Lebona mounts up and sets off.

Sheriff looks at Palesa. She doesn’t look confident.


Lebona makes his way towards the high country. Viewed from afar, he is rapidly becoming a small and insignificant dot in the vast mountain landscape.


Unaccustomed to this level of excitement, let alone the sheer volume of traffic, the VILLAGERS are gobsmacked when Kobus pulls into town in his Mustang.

Viewed from a distance, Kobus makes some enquiries. The Villagers readily point out the address he is seeking.


Kobus knocks on the door of Mokheti’s house.

PALESA’S MOTHER opens a crack, takes a look, then slams the door closed again in alarm.

Kobus knocks again.

INT. MOKHETI’S HOUSE - DAY85 85

Palesa’s Mother shakes Mokheti, who’s dozing in a chair.

MOKHETIWha...?

Palesa’s Mother points at the door.

PALESA’S MOTHERThere’s a Boer on my stoep!

Mokheti clambers creakily to his feet.

MOKHETIA Boer?

72.

Palesa’s mother nods, alarmed.

PALESA’S MOTHERI think so.

MOKHETIWhat does he want?

Palesa’s Mother shrugs.

The sound of insistent KNOCKING.


Mokheti opens the door. Kobus greets him in English.

KOBUSMorning.

Mokheti summons his limited grasp of the language.

MOKHETIIt is. I’m fine.

Kobus wants to get to the point.

KOBUSI’m looking for a girl.

Palesa’s Mother appears at the doorway behind Mokheti. He turns to explain to her in SeSotho.

MOKHETIThe Boer says he wants a girl.

PALESA’S MOTHERPalesa?

Kobus hears the name, nods.

KOBUSJa, Palesa. That’s right, Palesa.

MOKHETIPalesa has gone to Maseru.

KOBUSJa Maseru. That’s where I met her. Now I need to find her - it’s urgent.

Mokheti speaks to his wife in SeSotho.

73.

MOKHETIHe says he’s interested in Palesa.

PALESA’S MOTHERHe wants her?

MOKHETIThat’s what he says.

Mokheti indicates the Mustang.

MOKHETI (CONT'D)I think he has money this Boer.

Kobus is getting impatient.

KOBUSPalesa - she has a boyfriend, right?

Canny Mokheti answers quick as a flash.

MOKHETINo boyfriend. She is free.

KOBUSI saw him, her boyfriend.

Mokheti speaks to Palesa’s Mother.

MOKHETIHe knows about Lebona.

KOBUSLebona? Is that his name? Where can I find this Lebona?

MOKHETIWhy do you worry about Lebona?

Kobus has reached snapping point.

KOBUSBecause when I find that cheeky bastard, I’ll break his fokken neck!

Mokheti nods, enthusiastic. He understands completely!

MOKHETIYes. Fine. Let me show you.

He beckons Kobus out onto the road - starts pointing out where to go.

74.

INT. LEBONA’S HUT - DAY87 87

Kotsi snores on Lebona’s bed while Palesa berates her captors.

PALESAYou won’t get away with this.

SHERIFF MSOMIYou think?

PALESAYou city guys don’t know a small village. Everyone gets to know everyone’s business. Someone will find out you’re keeping me here.

The SOUND of a car pulling up outside. Sheriff puts his finger to his lips, speaks to Stupid.

SHERIFF MSOMIKeep the chick quiet. I’ll deal with this.

He walks out the door of the hut.

EXT. LEBONA’S HUT - DAY88 88

Outside Lebona’s hut, Kobus takes out his gun and gets out of the car just as Sheriff comes out to see who’s arrived.

Sheriff Msomi is intrigued by the unexpected re-appearance of this fabulous vehicle in his life. He looks at it appreciatively.

Kobus eyes him warily. Each is aware of the other’s gun.

SHERIFF MSOMIWhat brings you here, ?

KOBUSWhere’s this Lebona?

Sheriff considers.

SHERIFF MSOMIWho wants to know?

KOBUSWhat’s it to you?

Sheriff shrugs.

75.

umlungu

SHERIFF MSOMIHe’s my bitch!

Kobus has had enough of the sparring, get’s straight to the point.

KOBUSDon’t you dick me around, my friend. This rustled a

herd of my cattle...

This cracks up Sheriff.

KOBUS (CONT'D)What’s so fokken funny?

Sheriff indicates the lone cow in the boma there.

SHERIFF MSOMIThere’s your herd, check.

Kobus heads over to take a look.

He inspects the brand closely, the fresh scars in its hide overlaying the old.

Kobus turns, his tone icy.

KOBUSAnd the rest? Where’s this ?

Sheriff shrugs. He points off into the distant mountains.

SHERIFF MSOMILebona has gone on a business trip up the mountain. If you want a piece of this moegoe, then you’lljust have to wait in line.

Kobus gets back into the Mustang. Sheriff Msomi approaches, caresses the hood.

SHERIFF MSOMI (cont’d)How much for the car?

KOBUSVoetsek!

He accelerates away.

76.

moffiemoerse

oke


Parked in Menkwaneng Main Street, Kobus opens the back of his Horsebox, leads out his impressive Boerperd stallion.

The Villagers gasp and gather round - they’re great connoisseurs of horseflesh.

There’s a frisson of mounting excitement as Kobus saddles up, slips his long rifle into a pouch next to the saddle.

Kobus straps on a GUNBELT, pulls on some BUCKSKIN GLOVES, straightens his SLOUCH HAT.

When Kobus mounts up, the Villagers CHEER - a spontaneous round of applause for this mythic figure, seemingly straight out of the history books.

Kobus rides off up the street, heading towards the mountains visible in the distance.

EXT. HIGH MOUNTAIN TRAIL - DAY90 90

Lebona winds his way up into the mountains.

Then, as though feeling a chill wind on the back of his neck, he pulls up Kutloano, turns to look back.

LEBONANo....It couldn’t be!

From Lebona’s POV far below on the trail behind, the figure of Kobus follows.

LEBONA (cont’d)(to Kutloano)

Could it?

In a montage of shots:

Through streams and thickets, Lebona tries every trick in the book to shake De Jong from his trail, but:

Kobus follows relentlessly, tracking his man across rocks and through the streams.

Lebona confides in his horse, Kutloano.

LEBONA (CONT'D)I can’t believe this guy. He’s good. And he’s getting closer!

77.

EXT. HIGH PEAKS SMUGGLERS’ HIDEOUT - DUSK91 91

As dusk starts to close in, Lebona climbs the path below the SMUGGLERS’ hideout, where sacks of compressed weed are being prepared for transit by donkey. It’s a veritable production line.

The Smugglers’ LOOKOUT, spots the approaching rider. He calls out to his companions below.

LOOKOUT Someone coming.

The Boss Smuggler raises his rifle and takes careful aim.

BOSS SMUGGLERAnyone we know?

They all take a look down at the trail below. One youth, THABA (Mountain)speaks up.

THABAI know that horse. Must be Lebona.

BOSS SMUGGLERWhich Lebona is that?

THABALebona from school days in Menkwaneng. I’m telling you, that kid was really cooked. He’s some kind of history nerd - lives in the past. He thinks he’s Moshoeshoe the First.

The Boss Smuggler sounds irritated.

BOSS SMUGGLERSo what? Do I shoot him or not?

Thaba shakes his head.

THABANah. Don’t worry, he’s harmless. Lebona’s always good for a laugh.

They lower their rifles and watch as Lebona approaches.

CUT TO LATER:

78.

EXT. SMUGGLER’S HIDEOUT/CAMPFIRE - NIGHT92 92

Later, at the end of a meal cooked on the campfire, Lebona uses all his skills of negotiation.

BOSS SMUGGLERThat’s quite a package you’re talking about!

LEBONAYes, it’s a good investment for you guys.

BOSS SMUGGLERSorry? How do you mean investment?

LEBONAObviously I will need some credit. But that’s where your profit is bigger.

The Boss Smuggler laughs. His men all get up and start scraping their plates, packing them away.

BOSS SMUGGLERI think you’ve come to the wrong place, Lebona. Do you see me wearing a suit?

Lebona looks at the worn BLANKET, the stinking old SNEAKERS.

LEBONAA suit? I don’t get you.

The Boss Smuggler laughs.

BOSS SMUGGLERDo I look like the manager of the Agricultural Investment Bank?

LEBONANo, of course, it’s a large amount. I was hoping we could defer part of the payment.

The Boss Smuggler considers.

BOSS SMUGGLERAnd your deposit?

79.

LEBONANo deposit, big interest. I was thinking you could definitely double your money.

BOSS SMUGGLERWhat about no deposit, no interest?

LEBONASure, that sounds fair.

BOSS SMUGGLERIf you give me no deposit I have no interest in giving you any dagga.

LEBONAOh....

The Smugglers continue to break camp. They load up their animals ready to leave.

BOSS SMUGGLERLet me see if I get you correctly. I give you two donkey-loads of weed. And you give me what up front?

Lebona stands up.

LEBONAWell nothing up front. The profit all comes at the back end.

The Boss Smuggler laughs. He points at the pack animals.

BOSS SMUGGLERYou see those donkeys there?

LEBONAYes. Excellent donkeys. They’re strong.

BOSS SMUGGLERWell they should be - they eat up a lot of grass.

(A beat)And you know what comes out at the back end?

The Smugglers all laugh.

80.

Lebona is not so amused. He looks worried.

CUT TO LATER:

EXT. HIGH PEAKS SMUGGLERS’ HIDEOUT - NIGHT93 93

In the FULL MOON, their donkeys all loaded, the Smugglers are ready to pull out.

Lebona sits by the campfire forlorn. He’s run out of options.

The Boss Smuggler comes up to Lebona.

LEBONAYou off?

The Boss Smuggler nods.

BOSS SMUGGLERWe ride by night.

He hands him a PACKAGE wrapped in newsprint. It’s about as thick as a man’s forearm.

BOSS SMUGGLER (CONT'D)I’ll leave you this arm as a sample. That’s the best I can do. It’s business.

Lebona nods.

LEBONAI understand. Thanks.

The Boss Smuggler pats him on the shoulder.

BOSS SMUGGLERAll you need is seed money.

LEBONASeed money?

BOSS SMUGGLERJa, with seeds you can grow it yourself.

Lebona struggles to conceal his disappointment.

He watches as the Smugglers ride off down the trail, swallowed up by the darkness.

81.

I/E. HIGH PEAKS SMUGGLERS’ HIDEOUT/CAVE - NIGHT94 94

Sheltering in a cave, Lebona sits huddled around a tiny fire, freezing and miserable.

Below, in the night, like a warning beacon, he can see the Boer’s campfire blazing. Kobus is closer now, still on his trail.

Lebona opens the newsprint package. He takes out a pipe, stuffs the bowl with weed.

Contemplating the abyss, he lights up the pipe and falls into a reverie.


A cloud of red dust sweeps across the landscape.

Then out of it, emerges a figure galloping on horseback - it’s Lebona himself.

He rides like the wind, leaving the red dust behind him, he approaches growing larger until his smiling face is visible.

I/E. MOUNTAIN CAVE - NIGHT96 96

With a start, Lebona snaps awake, sits bolt upright.

He WHOOPS!

EXT. HIGH PEAKS SMUGGLERS’ HIDEOUT - DAWN 97 97

Lebona talks to Kutloano as he saddles him up.

LEBONASometimes, a man has to take his destiny into his own hands.

Kutloano nods his head and snorts.

LEBONA (cont’d)This is something we have to sort out for ourselves. It’s all down to you and me.

Lebona finishes saddling Kutloano. He reaches into his saddlebag. He straps on the gunbelt with his Webley revolver, mounts up and rides out.

82.

EXT. HIGH MOUNTAIN TRAIL - DAY98 98

From far up the mountain trail, Lebona, mounted, looks down from his vantage point.

Close, his eyes squint against the early sun to make out the scene in the distance.

Below him, he can see Kobus saddling his horse, mounting up.

Lebona checks his revolver, puts it back into its holster.

He urges Kutloano on down the trail.

EXT. ROCKY OUTCROP - DAY99 99

Kobus emerges from behind a rocky outcrop. His eyes are downcast, following the trail.

EXT. HIGH MOUNTAIN TRAIL/BOULDER - DAY100 100

Lebona dismounts, leaves Kutloano behind a large boulder. He scrambles up to the top.

EXT. HIGH MOUNTAIN TRAIL/BELOW - DAY101 101

Kobus, far off below, hears a call echoing through the rocks and boulders above him.

LEBONA (V.O.)Hai!

Kobus reins in his horse, looks up for the source of the sound.

Close, his eyes narrow as he sees:


Seen from Kobus’ POV below, Lebona stands on the top of the boulder, hand raised. Lebona shouts out in English.

LEBONAI want to talk.

He raises his other hand to show that he comes in peace.

83.


Kobus reaches deliberately for his rifle in its sheath on his saddle.

He raises it to his shoulder, takes aim.


Close, Lebona watches in disbelief. The Boer is at least 900 metres away down the mountain.

He waves both his arms, speaks under his breath.

LEBONA(Mutters)

Not from that distance, no way.


Close, Kobus adjusts the sight on his rifle. He exhales evenly, squeezes the trigger.

BANG! The sound of the rifle reverberates through the rocks as:


In slow motion a high-powered bullet ricochets off the *boulder beside Lebona’s upraised arm.

LEBONAJesus!

He dives flat onto the boulder as:


Kobus lines up for another shot.


Lebona rolls over the crest of the boulder as:

The second bullet ricochets off the place he was lying.

84.

mosweu (white person),

Out of Kobus’ line of sight at the back of the boulder, Lebona springs into a crouch as he rolls and leaps off the rock into the saddle of Kutloano waiting below.

He urges the horse back up the trail.


Kobus slides the rifle back into its sheath.

He spurs his horse on up the trail in pursuit.

EXT. MAZE OF BOULDERS - DAY110 110

Seen from above, Lebona gallops through a landscape full of boulders, twisting and turning in full flight.

Behind him, Kobus is gaining, matching his every move.

Getting closer, Kobus pulls out his rifle again. He looses a shot off at the retreating figure BANG! Just as:

Lebona rounds a boulder and jumps off Kutloano’s back, holds him completely still. He takes out the Webley revolver from its holster, holds it ready.

Closer, Kobus stops and listens. In the sudden silence, there is only the sound of the wind.

Kobus dismounts from his horse, rifle at the ready. He starts to move forward slowly.

Concealed behind his boulder, Lebona gestures back down the trail to Kutloano - he smacks him gently on the rump.

Then Lebona takes off on foot into the maze of rocks, leaping lightly from one to another.

At the SOUND of a horse’s hooves approaching at a walk, Kobus looks up. His eyes narrow.

He takes cover behind a rock and levels his rifle, watchingthe trail.

Behind him, Lebona approaches on foot, creeping up silentlyjust as Kobus sees:

Round a bend in the trail, Kutloano clip-clops towards , riderless.

Kobus steps out from behind his rock, goes forward to take Kutloano’s reins.

85.

From behind Kobus, Lebona speaks quietly.

LEBONAHai.

Kobus whips around. The barrel of Lebona’s revolver, only inches away, is aimed at his head.

Lebona looks the Boer right in the eye.

And Kobus sees straight away that something has changed since the last time they met in the Casino bar.

Kobus starts to raise his rifle as:

Lebona leans forward, grasps the barrel. He shakes his head.

LEBONA (cont’d)Uh uh!

Lebona takes the rifle from Kobus’ hand, throws it away to one side.

Lebona speaks in English.

LEBONA (CONT'D)You looking for me?

Kobus smiles grimly.

KOBUSNot any more.

LEBONASo let’s talk about what you want.

KOBUSWhat I want? What I want is to put an end to your bullshit.

LEBONAMy bullshit? You could have killed *me. *

Kobus laughs. *

KOBUS *If I’d wanted to kill you, you’d be *dead. I wanted to give you a *

Lebona shrugs. *

86.

skrik.

LEBONA *Okay - you did that. *

(A beat) *Now what? *

KOBUS *Now you give me my herd back, you *fokken cheeky bastard. *

(A beat) *Then I’m going to strangle you with *my bare hands! *

LEBONA *I thought maybe you would want to *apologise.

KOBUSMe apologise? You stole my cattle. *

LEBONAYes and you insulted my girlfriend.

(A beat)I think this is not about cows for *you.

KOBUSNo, fuck the cattle - it’s personal now. You think you can make me look like a ?

Kobus takes a step towards Lebona.

Lebona cocks the Webley.

LEBONASo you want to prove you’re better *than me? *

Kobus laughs mirthlessly.

KOBUSI am better. I don’t need to prove it.

(A beat)I’m just going to beat you to a *pulp. *

LEBONA *I’m not a fighter, really, I’m a *horseman. *

(A beat)And women - I know about women as well.

87.

doos

KOBUSI’ll outride you any day of the week. There’s nothing I don’t know about horses.


LEBONAI doubt that. I saw the way you handled Palesa.

KOBUSYour girlfriend? What’s she got to do with it?

LEBONAI want you to tell her you’re sorry. It’s something important to her.

Kobus shakes his head.

KOBUSIn your dreams, buddy.

Lebona carries on, musing.

LEBONAWhat we need is a competition. Let’s see who’s the better rider.

KOBUSI told you - no contest, my friend. The better rider is me.


LEBONAWould you bet on that?

Kobus looks at his Boerperd stallion grazing nearby.

KOBUSSure I would. Every time. I caught up with you, didn’t I.

Lebona makes his pitch.

LEBONAAt stake in this bet, an apology to my girlfriend Palesa, the cattle and...

88.

(MORE)

(Thinks)And your car.

KOBUSMy car! Oh I see, is that all? And me, what do I get?

Lebona’s eyes narrow, implacable.

LEBONAYou get to live.

Kobus stares back, but it’s Kobus blinks first. He’s getting a taste of the steel in this boy.

KOBUSBullshit. You’d never shoot me.

Lebona shrugs.

LEBONAYou think?

(A beat)You should ask yourself, Boer, ‘Am I feeling lucky?’

Kobus is clearly not sure what to think now. He’s gaining respect for this lad.

Lebona smiles.

LEBONA (cont’d)If you win, my horse and this antique revolver. It belonged toone of your ancestors.

Kobus is interested in spite of himself.

KOBUSReally? Let’s see that.

Lebona hands Kobus his Webley.

Kobus is amazed. He inspects the gun in his hand, checks the chamber.

LEBONAWin or lose, we smoke a peace-pipe together. We put an end to all this.

Kobus levels the gun at Lebona. He cocks it.

89.

LEBONA (cont'd)

KOBUSWhy should I waste my time with *your bet? I can shoot a rustler *right here and now. Who’d ever know *the difference?

LEBONAYou would.

Lebona looks at Kobus, assessing.

LEBONA (cont’d)I think you’re a better man than that.

(A beat)And you’d never find out who would win the horse game. I guarantee you, the answer is I would.

Kobus glances at Kutloano. He seems rather less impressive than Kobus’ own steed.

KOBUSBullshit.

LEBONAUnless you’re afraid I might beat you?

KOBUSNo way!

LEBONAFair and square. No guns, no helicopters - just a straight contest man to man. Isn’t that what this is all about?

Kobus looks at Lebona. He’s thinking.

EXT. MOUNTAIN PLAIN - DAY111 111

Lebona and Kobus, mounted on their respective horses, square off for an epic contest on a vast expanse of mountain plain.

Lebona explains the rules as he leans down to draw a line with his stick in the dust.

LEBONAWe start here at this line, by this tree.

90.

He points to a DISTINCTIVE TREE where they stand.

LEBONA (cont’d)You try to get over this line, while I try to stop you.

KOBUSAnd then?

LEBONAIf you pass, you run.

KOBUSThen we race?

LEBONAThen I chase you. If I catch you I hit you with my stick until you fall off or I pass you.

KOBUSIf I have a start you won’t catch me.

Lebona points to a ROCK OUTCROP way across the valley.

LEBONAThe rock over there is the place where we turn. Then same again til we get back here.

KOBUSAnd the winner?

Lebona shrugs.

LEBONAThe winner’s the one who crosses the line first.

KOBUSNo problem - let’s do it.

Kobus kicks his horse into action and circles round the tree, heading back for the start line.

But Lebona blocks him at every turn. It’s an extreme test of handling skills as they twist and turn. Kobus finds it hard to get over the line.

Then, feinting left, Kobus passes on the right breaking free. He takes off down the valley at a gallop.

91.

KOBUS (cont’d)(Shouts)

So long sucker!

But Lebona turns Kutloano in an instant and speeds off after Kobus, gradually beginning to gain.

Kobus turns to see whether he’s left Lebona in his dust just as:

Catching up, Lebona beats Kobus over the shoulders with his stick as they gallop along at a breakneck pace.

Kobus turns his body, manages to grab the stick and wrench it away. But Lebona speeds past him to the midpoint turnaround.

Rounding the outcrop of rocks, Lebona is confronted by Kobus, who, in turn, tries to block him, jinking this way and that.

But in a slick double-bluff, Lebona breaks free and gallops off across the plain. Kobus wheels his horse and follows. He stretches every sinew to catch up - almost succeeding.

Reaching out in a last desperate effort, he swings the stick, clubbing Lebona on the back. *

Lebona drops the reins and slumps forward, slipping to one side. With his left hand he gets a grip on Kutloano’s mane, clings on tight.

As Kobus spurs his horse on to pass, Lebona urges his horse into one last effort. Kutloano's too fast.

Before the dust settles, Lebona emerges the victor by a nose.

EXT. VALLEY VIEWSITE - DAY112 112

Sprawled out at a spot overlooking an incredible view, Lebona inhales a trail of smoke from his traditional pipe.

In front of Lebona, adjacent, the arm of weed is spread out, open. They are both shattered from their exertions.

Lebona passes the pipe to Kobus.

KOBUSHow’s your bruises?

LEBONAThe pipe of peace. It will heal all the pain.

Kobus nods.

92.

KOBUSOkay.

Kobus inhales as Lebona motions to him to draw the smoke in deeply and keep it in the lungs.

Kobus exhales. He speaks in English.

KOBUS (CONT'D)It’s nice here, Lesotho.

Lebona replies in English too.

LEBONAThat’s why it’s called the ‘Kingdom of the Skies’.

Kobus inhales again, this time fulsomely.

KOBUSIs that so?

LEBONAIt is.

Lebona points at a particular mountain in the distance.

LEBONA (cont’d)You see there. That was called Qilwane mountain. Moshoeshoe renamed it Thaba Bosiu. He made his capital there.

KOBUSMoshesh? He fought against De La Rey. He was like you, always rustling our cattle.

Lebona laughs.

LEBONAHe said you Boere were stealing his land!

Suddenly it all seems quite amusing. They crack up together in GALES OF LAUGHTER.

EXT. HUGE MOUNTAIN LANDSCAPE - DAY113 113

The sound of the thome, swells and echoes through the mountain ranges.

93.

Lebona and Kobus, dwarfed by the vast landscape, ride along companionably together.

As they approach, it’s clear that Lebona is riding Kobus’ Boerperd Stallion - he pats the horse’s neck appreciatively.

Kobus is on Lebona’s Basotho Pony, Kutloano. He looks very happy with the deal. It is Kobus who is playing the thome!

They ride past down the mountain together.

EXT. MENKWANENG STREET - DAY114 114

Close, Kotsi waves happily.

Sheriff Msomi grins like a fiend as he drives off in the Mustang Convertible, grinding the gears in a spectacular failure to double declutch.

As the car jerks away, the Lazy Y Boys in the back all wave back at Kotsi - or at least raise a token middle finger.


Wide, the Horsebox with Kobus’ gold logo on the side is hitched to Sheriff’s boosted BMW, to which Kotsi is prudently attaching new plates.

Inside the box, Lebona’s horse peeps out. He’s contentedly chewing some primo Boere hay.

Lebona leans over to fondle Kutloano’s cheek.

LEBONAYou agree, my friend, it’s better this way. It’s time you retired anyway.

Kutloano nods his head. He nuzzles Lebona comfortingly.

LEBONA (cont’d)I’ll miss you, you know that. But you remember Kobus’ ranch? There’s a lot of green grass for you there. And he tells me he has some very expensive young mares who need servicing. It’s a tough job, but what better horse could we ask to do it?

Kutloano whinnies, enthusiastically.

94.

LEBONA (cont’d)Now I must teach the (Afrikaner) horse how to think right. This is what they call a ‘rainbow nation’.

CUT TO:

Close, Kobus intones formally.

KOBUS(In English)

Please allow me to apologise to you for my unfortunate misunderstanding back at the Casino.

Palesa smiles, shakes his hand.

KOBUS (cont’d)It was the Klipdrift talking. I’m really not that kind of guy. In fact, my wife says I’m very reliable!

PALESAThank you. I’m sure that you are.

Kobus shakes the hand of Mokheti, who is standing beside his daughter.

KOBUSAnd as for you, sir, I must congratulate you on your daughter’s engagement to such a fine young man as Lebona. He is very well named, because he has opened my eyes to a new way of seeing the world.

Mokheti’s bemused, like he still has his reservations.

Palesa smiles.

I/E. MOKHETI’S HOUSE/BMW - DAY116 116

Very close, a match is applied to the bowl of a traditional pipe. The dagga catches with a roar.

Standing beside the car, Kobus exhales a dense cloud of smoke, which clears to reveal Lebona’s face.

KOBUSYou take care, my young friend.

95.

Leaforikanere

Kobus reaches out to shake Lebona’s hand.

LEBONAYou too.

He unbuckles his gun-belt, hands Kobus the Webley. Kobus handles the gun, emotional.

KOBUSNo way. I can’t take this...

LEBONAIt’s yours De La Rey. You stole it first from the British.

They laugh.

Kobus climbs into the car and pulls off, waving the arm of weed in farewell.

The assembled Villagers cheer and ululate, as Lebona modestly acknowledges their approval of his diplomatic coup in shaving the Boer’s beard, yet leaving him happy.


Lebona turns back from the crowd towards the house as Tsebo and Molahlehi approach with Letswalo and the rest of the Rustlers.

Carving a path towards them is a mighty herd, proudly led by Lebona’s two Ten-Year Old friends and a new MAGNIFICENT 5 HERD BOYS.

Lebona shakes Mokheti’s hand and slips his arm around Palesa.


And as Lebona’s returning cattle thunder past, a huge cloud of red dust seems to clear just enough to reveal an imposing figure.

It looks a lot like MOSHOESHOE, who seems to give Lebona a smile and a nod of approval - he raises his hand, perhaps in farewell.

FADE TO BLACK.

96.

De Jong and the Rustlers

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