USC Nikkei Culture Night 2012 Script

8/2/2019 USC Nikkei Culture Night 2012 Script

http://slidepdf.com/reader/full/usc-nikkei-culture-night-2012-script 1/73

USC Nikkei Culture Night the Fifth

byDaphne Ho

USC Nikkei Association, 2012

How I Cooked Your Dinner



INTRO VIDEO

Images of the main cast appear onscreen in the style of “HowI Met Your Mother.”

Fade into GORDON JR. and GORDANA sitting across the couch and

watching TV. The year is 2035. They are dressedfuturistically.

GORDON OF THE FUTURE enters and sits in front of the TV,facing his kids.

GORDON OF THE FUTURESo, kids, have I ever told youabout the time I was on TV?

GORDON JR.(disinterested) Dad, this isn’treally a good time.

GORDANA (fidgets on the couch and tries tosee past her father) Yeah, Daddy, we’re in the middle of watching TVand you’re sitting right in frontof it.

GORDON OF THE FUTURE(continues talking as if he did nothear them) It felt just likeyesterday....the year 2012. Your mom and I hadn’t even met yet.

GORDON, JR.(sarcastically) Here we go...

GORDANA (whining, clearly disinterested)Ughh, Daddyyyy.

GORDON OF THE FUTUTREI was 28 years old and had justopened up my own restaurant,(extravagantly) “Amore.”

GORDON JR.I still think that’s a stupid namefor a restaurant.

GORDANA Yeah, Daddy, I thought you said you were creative?



GORDON OF THE FUTUREAre you kidding me? That is creative! We served Japanese-Italian fusion cuisine, and thename “Amore” represented our mottoof cooking food with love to

customers who loved dining with us.

GORDON, JR.That’s so cliche.

GORDANA The commercials are almost over socan you finish telling your storysome other time because-

GORDON OF THE FUTURE continues rambling obliviously.

GORDON, JR. and GORDANA roll their eyes, clearly frustrated.

GORDON OF THE FUTUREAnd thanks to my cleverness, thelogo combined the restaurant’sItalian name with the design of theJapanese flag to represent theJapanese-Italian fusion.

GORDANA If I was Uncle Addison, AuntieCamille, Auntie Olivia, or AuntieMae, I wouldn’t have worked for

you.

GORDON OF THE FUTUREGordana, getting a job isn’t aseasy as it seems especially for achef. Your Uncle Addison was mybest friend and we were both tiredof our catering jobs. And mysisters- your aunties- were prettyfresh out of culinary school. Theyknew that working for me was ablessing.

SONIf your restaurant was so new, howdid you end up on TV?

GORDON OF THE FUTUREWell, kids, it all started onenight as we were closing up therestaurant.

2.

Gordon, Jr.



MAE(rests her head on CAMILLE’sshoulder) I can’t wait to go homeand relax with a nice cup of hotcocoa.

CAMILLEYeah, I can’t believe how busy we were today.

GORDON enters.

GORDONHey, thanks for cleaning up inhere. I just took out the trash.

GORDON notices CAMILLE’s annoyed face and slouched bodylanguage.

GORDON (CONT’D)(to MAE, pointing at CAMILLE)What’s her problem?

MAEShoes.

GORDONAgain?! No one sees your shoes inthe kitchen, and we’re all familyanyway so I don’t know who you’retrying to impress.

CAMILLEDon’t hate me because I’m beautiful.

GORDONI never said you were beautiful.I’m saying you’re dumb.

MAE giggles to herself and wanders behind the counter to putaway the folded napkins and avoid the drama.

CAMILLE

(smugly tosses her hair behind hershoulder) Haters gonna hate.

GORDONHey, when was the last time you hada boyfriend?

5.

(MORE)



ADDISONAw, tell your parents that I sayhi.

GORDON(to ADDISON) Sometimes I feel like

you belong more in our family thana certain black sheep...

GORDON subtly points at CAMILLE. She turns her head towardsGORDON and catches him pointing at her.

GORDON (CONT’D)Not like I’m naming any names.

CAMILLE(sarcastically) I’m so lucky tohave such a loving big brother.

Beat.

GORDONOK, it looks like everything is inorder. Great work today, guys.This was one of our busiest days,and I’m really proud of everyone.

MAE, OLIVIA, and ADDISON simultaneously respond.

MAEMy pleasure!

OLIVIA Aw, thank you.

ADDISONNo problem.

CAMILLE hops off the countertop.

CAMILLEDoes this mean we get a raise??

GORDON

If we keep getting as manycustomers as we did today, then maybe soon.

CAMILLEIn that case, don’t be surprised ifI leave for a higher-paying job insomeone else’s kitchen.

7.



GORDON(unfazed) Yeah, good luck withthat.

MAE and OLIVIA walk out from behind the counter. MAE isholding a bowl of fortune cookies.

MAEDoes anyone want a fortune cookiefor the road?

Everyone responds simultaneously.

GORDONSure!

MAEYes, please!

ADDISONThanks.

OLIVIA Ooo, me!

CAMILLEOk.

Beat.

They open the wrappers, munch on the cookies, and read theirfortunes.

GORDONWhat do your fortunes say?

CAMILLE(reads intently) “Your emotions areright on the surface, but that’sok.”

ADDISONSounds about right.

OLIVIA “None of the secrets of success will work unless you do.” Hey, Ido plenty of work!

CAMILLEYeah, these things are dumb.

8.



CAMILLEYes, Your Highness.

Everyone exits.

BLACKOUT.

VIDEO CLIP (TRANSITION): “IDOL CHEF”

Cooking clips are shown in quick succession with opera-likebackground music. Some words flash onscreen as the MASTER OFCEREMONIES (HOST) provide voiceovers.

MASTER OF CEREMONIESRespected. Beloved. Masters. All with one mission: to become

unsurpassable. In a battle ofPride, Honor, and Taste, only one will be victorious. Whose cuisine will reign supreme?

SCENE 2

INT. GORDON’S OFFICE. DAYTIME.

GORDON and ADDISON are discussing the menu at the desk.

GORDONThe uni from this morning was sofresh.

ADDISONI think it’d be great in a CreamyUni Pasta. I’ll garnish it withtoasted hazelnuts and parsleyleaves.

GORDONAwesome.

ADDISONHmm that lobster and squid we gotthis morning would be perfect for aShoyu-Sake Seafood Spaghettidish...haha try to say that tentimes fast.

10.

: The Invitation



GORDONShoyu-Sake Seafood Spaghetti, Shoyu-Sake Seafood Spaghetti, Shoyu-SakeSeafood Spa-

CAMILLE, OLIVIA, and MAE enter from stage right and eagerly

approach GORDON’s desk. OLIVIA stands next to GORDON’s desk,CAMILLE sits on GORDON’s desk, and MAE sits in the vacantseat next to ADDISON.

CAMILLE(raises envelope above her head) Ithink you should take a look atthis! (slams envelope down on desk)

ADDISONWhat is it?

OLIVIA

It’s from The Feast Network!

GORDONWhat?? Really??? (tears open theenvelope)

MAE(applauds excitedly) Heehee yeah!!

OLIVIA hovers over GORDON’s shoulder as he reads. Everyoneelse is looking excitedly at GORDON.

ADDISON

Well what does it say?

GORDON(reads from the letter) “Dear Mr.Gordon, We are pleased to inform you-”

CAMILLE(smartly) “That you have beenaccepted into Hogwarts School ofWitchcraft and Wizardry!”

ADDISONShhh, don’t interrupt.

CAMILLE scowls.

GORDON“-that you and your staff at AmoreRestaurant have been chosen toparticipate in an episode of thepopular ‘Idol Chef’ series.

11.

(MORE)



The competition will feature thethree classic Chinese, Japanese,and Italian culinary masters. Ifyou choose to accept thischallenge, you will be expected toprepare a five course meal with

impromptu ingredients that will berevealed on the day of thecompetition for a panel of randomlyselected judges. If you are deemedthe winner, you will be rewarded with $50,000 and a lifetime ofbragging rights. Please respond tothis invitation for furtherinstructions.”

Beat.

GORDON sets the letter down. The chefs are in awe and

exchange stupefied expressions.

CAMILLE$50,000...

OLIVIA Feast Network...

MAEIdol Chef...

ADDISONBragging rights...

Beat.

All four chefs are struck by reality and begin to celebrate.OLIVIA and CAMILLE hug each other and jump up and down.ADDISON and MAE exchange high fives; MAE claps to herselfagain.

GORDON is still stunned in his chair.

OLIVIA I can’t believe this!

ADDISON(overjoyed) I guess my fortunecookie was right! Happy news did find its way to me!

CAMILLE(takes out her cell phone) Oh mygosh, I need to tweet about thisand change my Facebook status.

12.

GORDON (CONT'D)



MAEI should call Mommy and Daddy rightnow. They’ll be so happy!

OLIVIA I’ll go get some wine and champagne

to celebrate!

OLIVIA starts dancing towards stage right and breaks intosong. Everyone except GORDON joins in and starts clapping tothe beat.

OLIVIA (CONT’D)(singing Kool & The Gang’s“Celebration” to herself)“Celebrate good times, comeon!...Let’s celebrate...”

GORDON

(shouts aggressively) STOP!!!

Everyone freezes in their tracks.

GORDON (CONT’D)Everyone, just calm down. We haveto think through this.

ADDISONWhat is there to think about?We’re going to be on TV! Competingagainst one of the best chefs inthe world!

OLIVIA Just think about the kind ofpublicity we’ll get from this!

GORDONBut our restaurant is only a yearold, and we’ve barely made a markon the culinary scene. This lettercould be a fraud.

OLIVIA

Oh, stop being so pessimistic!Plenty of people have writtenreviews about us, and we deserve tobe on the show!

CAMILLEAnd think about what we could do with that $50,000.

13.



GORDONWell, we could use that money tobuy better ingredients...hire morestaff...new furniture andequipment...

MAEThis is a once-in-a-lifetimeopportunity.

OLIVIA (looks off wistfully in thedistance) I can’t wait to get theIdol Chefs’ autographs!

Beat.

GORDONBefore we get ahead of ourselves,

first things first: I’m going togive Feast Network a follow-upphone call. Then we need to startthinking of potential dishes tohelp us prepare as best as we can.They have to be the best fivecourses we’ve ever cooked.

CAMILLEBut this is our T.V. debut! Wehave plenty of time for all thelogistics later. (links arms withMAE and OLIVIA and exits stage

right) Come on, girls. We’regetting makeovers and shopping fornew clothes and taking our chefcoats to the dry cleaners to getthem pressed...(continues ramblinguntil they are offstage).

CAMILLE, MAE, and OLIVIA exit stage right.

Beat.

ADDISON

(laughs nervously) Haha, well Iguess it’s just you and me!

GORDONWho does she think she is??

ADDISONDon’t worry about them. They’rejust being girls. Let’s focus on a menu for the competition.

14.



GORDONYeah you’re right. Let’s start with a list of our strengths and weaknesses.

GORDON takes notes on his notepad.

ADDISON gets out of his seat and starts pacing the stage.

ADDISONIn my opinion, Mae is an incrediblepastry chef, but she’s the youngestone here so she might snap from allthe pressure. Olivia is good at making pasta sauces and dressings,but she doesn’t know how to workquickly. Camille is good at fryingstuff, but she always finds a wayto stir up trouble.

GORDONThat sounds about right. Andyou’re the best at cooking meat. Ifeel the most comfortable withseafood.

ADDISON sits down.

ADDISONGood. It sounds like we have allour bases covered.

ADDISON props his feet up on GORDON’s desk.

GORDONYeah but what about the food?

ADDISONWe’ll just make stuff that’ssimilar to what we serve here.

GORDONYou think that will impress thejudges? We serve pasta with

tempura shrimp and label it asJapanese-Italian fusion. But we’regoing to be competing against chefs who have trained and competed inJapan and Italy and all over the world.

ADDISON takes a sip of water.

15.



ADDISONWell there’s nothing we can doabout that now. We just have touse what we know. That’s what gotus the invitation in the firstplace so we must be doing something

right.

Beat.

GORDON(holds his hands over his face,then rests his chin in his hands)Who should we choose as ourcompetitor? Idol Chef Chinese isout of the question because wedon’t cook Chinese food.

ADDISON

Yeah it’s between either Idol ChefJapanese or Idol Chef Italian. I’m leaning towards Idol Chef Japanesethough just because we’re Japanese.

GORDONWhat is that supposed to mean? We may look Japanese on the outsidebut that doesn’t restrict us from cooking other stuff. We’re prettyAmerican on the inside.

GORDON rests his head on his desk, obviously stressed.

ADDISONYeah but we grew up with foods likesushi and instant ramen and spam musubi.

GORDON(lifts his head up) But that’sexactly what I mean. Ourunderstanding of “Japanese food” isAmericanized. It’s not authentic.

ADDISONThen it’s authentic JapaneseAmerican food. Anyways,authenticity is so subjective. Thefood just has to look and tastegood.

GORDONI’m sure the judges will thinkdifferently.

16.



ADDISONYou’re making a big deal out ofnothing.

Beat.

ADDISON (CONT’D)By the way, how much time do wehave before the competition?

GORDONI don’t know. I’m going to givethem a call now.

ADDISONOk, I’ll start prepping for dinnertonight.

GORDON

Thanks.

ADDISONDon’t doubt yourself, man. Cheerup! I’ll be in the kitchen if youneed me (walks towards stage rightto exit).

GORDONThanks.

ADDISON(turns around as he is walking

away) You know, music always helps me when I’m stressed. (exit stageright)

ADDISON exits stage right.

GORDON(dejectedly) Thanks.

BLACKOUT.

TAIKO PERFORMANCE.

SCENE 3

INT. HOME FOODS GROCERY STORE. DAYTIME.

SoTrad dancers are onstage as shoppers in the grocery store.

17.

: Welcome to Home Foods

Miyake



GORDON, ADDISON, CAMILLE, MAE, and OLIVIA enter slowly from stage left. The girls have returned from their makeover andshopping spree, sporting new and sassy clothes.

CAMILLE(to GORDON) I still don’t

understand why you’re so mad.

GORDONBecause you’re not taking thisseriously!

CAMILLEYou’re too uptight.

GORDONI’m being responsible!

CAMILLE

Shh, you’re making a scene. Don’tembarrass us.

MAE(struggling to walk in high heels)Camille, I can’t feel my toes...

The chefs peruse around the store. They pick up differentitems and read the labels.

OLIVIA So what exactly are we buying?

ADDISONSince we don’t know what thesurprise ingredient on the show will be, Gordon and I decided that we should each practice ourstrongest dishes. That’s the only way we can prepare.

GORDON(points) Mae- pastries. Olivia-sauces, dressing, garnishes.Camille- fried foods. Addison-

meat and poultry. I’m taking careof seafood.

OLIVIA My squid ink spaghetti with clamsin wasabi garlic oil sauce isalways a favorite. Where’s thegarlic?

18.



KIMMY(pops out from behind a shelf) Good morning! Welcome to Home Foods!Are you finding everything youneed??

OLIVIA (surprised) Whoa. Hi...yeah..ohnever mind, I found the garlic!(walks in the other direction)

KIMMYLet me know if you need anything!(follows behind the chefs,anticipating their questions orneeds)

OLIVIA Thanks, I will.

Beat.

MAEI’ll practice my Peach Crepes withGinger Gelato.

GORDONYou should also make your SevenLayer Chocolate Cake with Red BeanFudge too.

MAE

Good idea. Hmm I guess I’ll needsix peaches-

LIBBY(pop out from behind a shelf) Didyou say you needed something??

MAE(jumps and gives a little scream)I’m fine, thanks! (scurries awayfrom that shelf)

LIBBYHow are you doing today?

GORDONWe’re good. We don’t need anyhelp.

19.



LIBBYLet me know if you need anything!Thank you for shopping at HomeFoods!(wanders off to targetanother group of customers)

Beat.

ADDISONI’m going to make Beef Wellington with a Seaweed Salad.

GORDONI’m think going to look around toget more ideas.

GORDON wanders off stage right. The rest of the chefscontinue shopping.

MAE(to CAMILLE) And what are you making?

CAMILLEWho? Me? Oh, I don’t need to makeanything.

OLIVIA I don’t think that’s a good idea.Practice makes perfect!

CAMILLE

You’re starting to sound like ourbrother.

OLIVIA It’s good to be confident, butyou’re pushing it.

CAMILLEYou worry too much. I’ll get a lotof rest the night before andeverything will be fine.

Beat.KIMMY

(to OLIVIA) Hi there! Is someonehelping you today?

OLIVIA (surprised) Oh, I’m just looking!

20.



KIMMYMy name is Kimmy if you need help.(wanders off but follows closelybehind again)

ADDISON

(to CAMILLE) You should listen toyour sisters. Gordon called thenetwork yesterday, and they’rerecording the episode on Friday.

CAMILLEWait...Friday? Today is Wednesday.

MAE(worried) That only gives us twodays.

ADDISON

Exactly. We have to start focusinglike right now .

OLIVIA When we cook, we should all try toimagine ourselves in the kitchen with the bright studio lights,under the pressure of the camera,audience, and judges watching us.

LIBBYHi there. Are you finding what youneed?

OLIVIA (flustered) Yeah. Thanks.

LIBBYI’m Libby. Don’t be a stranger!(wanders off but also followsclosely behind)

Beat.

OLIVIA

Anyway...what was I saying? Ohyeah, we have to put ourself in the mentality of being watched andjudged at all times...

The four chefs slowly turn their heads to look at KIMMY. She waves slowly. Then the four chefs slowly turn their headstoward LIBBY. She also waves slowly. They resemble creepypossessed dolls. The four chefs shudder.

21.



CAMILLEWhy don’t we just go to ourparents’ house then? It sounds thesame to me.

MAE

Oh, that’s a great idea! We cancook, and they can give usconstructive criticism.

OLIVIA Well it’ll be more like justnagging at us and pointing out allour flaws.

OLIVIA laughs, but her laugh soon turns into a snort.

MAEI’ll call Mommy and Daddy and tell

them that we’ll cook for them tonight. That will give us a dayto practice with their feedback.

OLIVIA I’ll let Gordon know about theplan. Where is he anyway? (triesto look across the stage)

Beat.

Crowds of SoTrad performers begin to congregate. The chefshave trouble walking through them.

CAMILLEIs it just me, or is it reallycrowded here today?

ADDISONYeah I was thinking the same thing.

KIMMY(to ADDISON) What can I help you with?

ADDISONOh, I didn’t ask for help. I’m just standing here.

KIMMYLet me know if you have anyquestions!

CAMILLEActually, yeah.

22.



LIBBYDid someone say they have aquestion?? (sprints across thestage)

CAMILLE

Yeah I just wanted to know, why isit so busy? What’s the occasion?

SoTrad performers assemble into their formation.

LIBBYWell our customers are attracted toHome Foods because we offer thehighest quality produce andfreshest selection in theneighborhood-

OLIVIA

(frantically) What the whaaaat??Is this some kind of “occupygrocery store” movement?

SoTrad music starts playing. Non-SoTrad performers looksurprised and confused and exit stage left.

SOTRAD PERFORMANCE

The scene continues as if nothing had happened. SoTradperformers resume wandering as extras onstage. The fourchefs re-enter.

OLIVIA (CONT’D)Oh my gosh! How fun! I think wejust witnessed a flash mob!

MAEI’ve always wanted to be in one,but not in these shoes.

ADDISONLook, we have to stay focused. Doeseveryone have all theiringredients?

MAEYes, we paid and we’re all ready.

CAMILLEHas anyone seen Gordon?

23.



ADDISONI don’t know. Let’s just call him later. We’ve already wasted too much time.

KIMMY and LIBBY bombard the chefs with questions.

KIMMYHow are you doing?

LIBBYDo you need anything?

KIMMYWe’re happy to assist you.

LIBBYJust tell us what you need.

CAMILLENo! We’re leaving!

The four chefs dash towards the exit on stage left. OLIVIA lingers behind and starts singing to herself and dancing.KIMMY and LIBBY approach her with outstretched arms.

OLIVIA (singing Jesse McCartney’s“Leavin’” enthusiastically toherself) “I’m leaving, never tocome back again/ You’ve foundsomebody who-”

CAMILLE grabs OLIVIA and covers her mouth with her hand to make her stop and drags her off stage left.

KIMMY AND LIBBY(waving creepily) Have a good day!Thank you for shopping at HomeFoods!!

BLACKOUT.

SCENE 4

INT. FAMILY KITCHEN. NIGHTTIME.

There is a long table representing the chefs’ workspace onstage left. The dining table is on stage left.

GORDON, MAE, and OLIVIA are cooking and preparing theirdishes.

24.

: What's for Dinner?



MAEHas anyone seen the powdered sugar?

OLIVIA I think it’s still in the grocerybag.

MAE moves to stage left and looks through the grocery bags.

OLIVIA (CONT’D)(to GORDON) So Camille really isn’tgoing to cook with us?

GORDONI don’t know where she went.Addison won’t be here because therain is making traffic really bad.But Camille has no excuse.

OLIVIA I guess I can’t say I’m surprised.

GORDONThat’s just how she is. There’snothing we can do.

MAE returns with the sugar and finishes garnishing herplates.

OLIVIA Are you guys almost ready to serve?

GORDONYeah, why don’t you tell Mom andDad while Mae and I set the table.

GORDON and MAE set the table with napkins and utensils.

OLIVIA (shouting towards stage left) MOM!DAD! DINNER’S READYYY!

UNCLE HUBERT and MOTHER enter. UNCLE HUBERT walks towardstage right. MOTHER lingers in the kitchen area on stage

left.UNCLE HUBERT is wearing a mismatched sweater vest. MOTHER is

UNCLE HUBERT(chipperly) I’m starving!

MAEUncle Hubert, what are you doinghere?

25.



MOTHERDidn’t you read my e-mail? I toldyou guys that Daddy is away on abusiness trip. I invited youruncle and cousin instead.

GORDONOh. I hope we have enough food.

Beat.

UNCLE HUBERT(takes a seat at the table).What’s for dinner?

OLIVIA The first course is Gordon’sappetizer. Flatbread Pizza withClams and Enoki Mushrooms.

MOTHER is peering over her children’s shoulders andinspecting their ingredients and supplies. Meanwhile, UNCLEfiddles with his cell phone.

MOTHERWhy did you buy organic mushrooms?

GORDONIt’s healthier.

MOTHERWaste of money, in my opinion. (to

OLIVIA) If I were you, I’d use afork, not a spoon. (to MAE) What’sthat?

MAEIt’s a Microplane. It helps megrate the lemon zest.

MOTHERAiya, you kids and your fancyaccoutrement. (exaggerates) Whenyour grandma taught me how to cook,

we only had one knife to peel orchop or dice.

MAEBut we’re professional chefs. Weneed the best equipment.

MOTHER(haughtily) The best cooks don’tneed equipment.

26.



GORDONThat’s not true...

MOTHER turns around and sees the sink.

MOTHER

(to MAE, CAMILLE, and GORDON) Ew!The sink is full of dirty dishes!You’re just like your dad. Whycan’t you be clean like me? When Icook, I always-

GORDON(fed up with her nagging) Mom, justtake a seat at the table and relax.(escorts MOTHER out of the kitchen)

MOTHERI’m just trying to help.

MOTHER reluctantly heads toward stage right and takes a seatat the table.

MOTHER (CONT’D)(to the chefs in the kitchen) Whereis Camille?

UNCLE HUBERTOh! Do you want me to send her a“textual message”?

OLIVIA

(snorts) A what?

MOTERHe just got a cell phone, and nowhe thinks he knows everything.(tries to sound cool) “WTF” “LOL”am I right?

GORDON facepalms.

MAE(giggles) (to UNCLE HUBERT) You can

just call it a “text.”UNCLE HUBERT

(intrigued by this revelation)Ohhhh.

Beat.

STACY enters.

27.



STACYMmm what are you guys cooking? Itsmells delicious! (takes a seat atthe table)

GORDON

Oh, Stacy, you’re just in time.We’re having a taste test topractice for our appearance on“Idol Chef.”

STACY(jaw drops) Wow! I have the coolestbig cousins in the world! I hope Ican be as cool as you guys someday.

OLIVIA Aww, thanks! You’re so sweet. (toUNCLE HUBERT, MOTHER, and STACY)

Ok, so give us your honest opinionsabout the food.

MAE and OLIVIA continue prepping in the kitchen.

GORDONHere’s the first course. (walks tostage right and places the platesin front of his family)

UNCLE HUBERT, MOTHER, and STACY take a bite.

STACY

Mmmmmm, it’s so good!

MOTHER(spits it out) Ew! Too salty!!

GORDONWhat! You’re kidding me!

MOTHERToo much cheese too.

STACY

Well I love it! I think it wouldtaste good with more clams or eventruffle oil.

GORDONAnd Uncle Hubert, what do youthink?

UNCLE HUBERTIt’s ok.

28.



GORDONJust ok?

UNCLE HUBERTYeah. The clams taste clammy.(distracted) Hey, is there any

wine?

OLIVIA Sure, I’ll bring some out.

GORDON helps OLIVIA carry her plates to the table. OLIVIA sets the bottle of wine in front of UNCLE HUBERT. GORDONtakes a seat.

OLIVIA (CONT’D)Ok, here’s course number two: SquidInk Spaghetti with Scallops in aWasabi Garlic Oil Sauce. Bon

appétit!

UNCLE HUBERT immediately uncorks the wine, pours himself aglass, and continues drinking throughout the scene.

MOTHEREww, it looks like worms!

OLIVIA The squid ink makes the pastablack.

STACY

Cool! You’re so talented. (takes abite) Mmm, I like how the wasabigarlic sauce isn’t too spicy, andthe scallops are cooked perfectly.(continues eating)

UNCLE HUBERTYes, the scallops are very round.

MOTHER(pushes plate away) I can’t eatthis. It gives me goosebumps.

GORDON examines her discarded plate and takes a few bites.

UNCLE HUBERTIt tastes like spaghetti.

OLIVIA Mommy, you’re not being verysupportive. (sniffs and wipes awaya tear)

29.



MOTHERI thought you wanted my honestopinion. I’m preparing you. Thejudges won’t be forgiving either.

OLIVIA

But you could at least eat the foodthat I worked on all day. I madeeverything from scratch.

MOTHERA+ for effort, F for everythingelse.

OLIVIA (embarrassed and hurt) Could youexcuse me for a minute? I..I thinkI need to get some air.

OLIVIA rushes off stage right with her hands covering herface to hide her tears.

UNCLE HUBERT(leans back in his chair, toOLIVIA) This wine is fantastic!(hiccups)

Beat.

MAESave room for my dessert! I made

Peach Crepes with Ginger Gelato andLemon Zest.

MAE places her plates on the table.

MOTHEROh my, honey. This is too sweet!

MAEOh no! That’s never happened to mebefore. This is my specialty.

GORDON(to MAE) Don’t listen to her.(offers her a bite of OLIVIA’sspaghetti) Here, you want somespaghetti?

MAENo thanks. I’m not hungry.

30.



GORDONAre you sure? You haven’t eatenall day.

MAE(defensively) I don’t get hungry

when I cook.

GORDONYeah, but you have to eatsomething.

MAE(nervously) Don’t worry. I atebefore. You just didn’t notice.

Beat.

UNCLE HUBERT

The gelato is cold!

STACYMmmm, the crepes are the perfectconsistency, and the lemon zestadds a nice kick. I bet a lemongelato would be yummy too.

MAEOk, thank you for your feedback.(gives a polite curtsy)

MAE helps MOTHER takes some of her dishes to the kitchen.

Beat.

UNCLE HUBERTSo explain- (hiccups)-to me what“Idol Chef” is.

STACYDaddy, it’s like the most popularcooking show on Feast Network.

UNCLE HUBERT

Oh! Is there an app for that?GORDON

Um...no. It’s a competition, and we choose the Idol Chef who we wantto compete against. Then threejudges will taste our five course meal and rate us based on taste,creativity, and presentation.

31.



Idol Chef Japanese wears his chef coat, buttons it, andadjusts the sleeves while the intro to Eminem’s “LoseYourself.” He seems epic and intimidating. The camera zoomsin as he puts on a pair of sunglasses. After he lights thestove, the music suddenly changes to Maroon 5’s “Moves LikeJagger.” He starts breakdancing while garnishing plates,

sprinkling rice in a pot, and generally showing off withfancy yet goofy moves. The video concludes with a zoom up ofthe chef posing with his arms crossed, spinning a ladle inhis hand like a drumstick. He is a force to be reckoned with.

SCENE 5

INT. KITCHEN ARENA. NIGHTTIME.

An array of tables for the kitchen is set up on stage right.DANNY, SHAR, and ANTOINETTA are seated at the judges’ panel

on stage left, and HOSTESS is standing beside them. A rug isplaced on center stage. Stage right and stage left areslightly dimmed.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES(places unnatural, awkward emphasison different syllables) Please welcome Chef Gordon and his stafffrom Amore Restaurant!

GORDON, ADDISON, CAMILLE, MAE, and OLIVIA enter from stageright. DANNY, SHAR, and ANTOINETTA applaud.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)(shakes hands with GORDON) Welcometo Kitchen Arena!! (spreads herarms majestically)

GORDONThank you. It is an honor to behere.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES(dramatically) Chef Gordon, youoriginate from humble beginnings.

Furthermore, four of the chefs whostand before me are siblings. Youare a family of ambitiousindividuals, brimming with youngenergy and ready to prove the worldthat your talents surpass theconfines of your small JapaneseItalian fusion restaurant.

33.

(MORE)

:The Battle



Tonight, you will be challenged byone of the Idol Chefs, experts intheir specific field. (exclaiming)Idol Chefs! Enter Kitchen Arena!(spreads her arms majesticallyagain)

IDOL CHEF JAPANESE enters from stage left. MASTER OFCEREMONIES is confused.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)Uhh, I said, Idol Chefs! PleaseEnter Kitchen Arena!

IDOL CHEF JAPANESEIdol Chef Chinese and Idol ChefItalian both called in sick, so Iguess it’s just me tonight.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES(shocked, but tries to stay incharacter by stroking her chinintensely) Oh! Hmm..what a curiousturn of events...nevertheless! Theshow must go on! (to GORDON)Challenger Gordon, please chooseyour opponent!

GORDON(looks at his fellow chefs andshrugs shoulders) Well, I guess wehave no other choice but this guy.

(points at IDOL CHEF JAPANESE).

MASTER OF CEREMONIES(mysteriously) Ahhhh yesss, a wisechoice. Idol Chef Japanese is aveteran chef, synthesizingtraditional flavors with moderninterpretations. A worthy opponentindeed!

CAMILLEWell, it’s not like we had any

other option.Beat.

34.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT'D)



MASTER OF CEREMONIESBefore we begin this culinaryshowdown, let us direct ourattention to the panel of judges who have graciously joined ustonight. Hostess, please introduce

us!

Stage left brightens.

HOSTESS is holding a microphone and talks in the same tone asa news reporter.

HOSTESSThank you, Master of Ceremonies.Tonight, we are joined by SharKawakami, a veteran secret agent who played a pivotal role in the1970s Asian American movement.

SHAR smiles and waves to the audience. She is dressed inblack attire reminiscent of her secret agent days.

SHARIt’s a pleasure to be here.

HOSTESSWe are also joined by DannyMatsuno, another veteran secretagent. Fun fact: Danny and Shar were partners back in the day.They look so young it’s hard to

believe, right?

DANNY is also wearing all black but he seems disheveled.

DANNYDo I look like a hippy?

SHAR(to HOSTESS, unamused)Ha..ha...he’s been saying that forthe last forty years.

HOSTESS(to the audience) Most of you mayrecognize Danny from his comedicappearances on the popular realityTV show “Born to be Awkward.” Howare you doing tonight, Danny?

DANNYKitchen Arena smells like toast.Burnt toast.

35.

(MORE)

Camille

Is it just me, or does

the Hostess look A LOT

like mom?



(looks off in the distance) Did Ishower today? (sniffs his sleeve)

HOSTESS(confused) Alright...and moving onto our final guest tonight- the

elegant, beautiful, charming Ms.Antoinetta Darlington. She is a writer for Food & Wine Magazine andhas travelled the world to researchthe exotic cuisines of barbariccivilizations.

ANTOINETTA uses lofty gestures and a sing-song voice as shespeaks. She is wearing a robe with long flowy sleeves.

ANTOINETTA The celestial bodies have granted me the generous willpower to

participate in this televisedbroadcast upon this fatefulevening.

Everyone is vaguely concerned for ANTOINETTA’s mentalstability.

DANNY(to ANTOINETTA) You talk funny.

HOSTESSAnd back to you, Master ofCeremonies.

MASTER OF CEREMONIESChefs, tonight your food and yourcharacter will be tested. Yourreputation and $50,000 are atstake.

Beat.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)(building suspense) We will nowreveal the much-anticipated secret

theme ingredient. You haveprepared your whole lives for this moment, the unveiling of one item of food that will direct the courseof the competition. Based on yourskills, expertise, and creativity,this sole ingredient will decideyour fate. (gestures with herhands as if they are scales)Success or Failure.

36.

DANNY (CONT'D)

(MORE)



Champion or Defeated. Winner winnerchicken dinner or loser, loser,double loser, (breaks from character) whatever, as if, get thepicture, duh!

Beat.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)Oh shoot...I just said the secretingredient. (panics) Uhhh,surprise! It’s chicken! (jazzhands). (clears throat and resumescharacter) You have one hour toprepare a five course chicken meal.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES turns her head to look GORDON in theeyes, then turns her head to look IDOL CHEF JAPANESE in theeyes.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)(performs an intense karate chop)Allez Cuisine!

Beat.

GORDON, MAE, ADDISON, CAMILLE, and OLIVIA sprint to theirtable, swiping whatever ingredients they can carry along the way. They frantically search for pots and pans at theirstation. Meanwhile IDOL CHEF JAPANESE calmly gathers hissupplies and takes a deep breath to collect himself beforediving into the competition. MASTER OF CEREMONIES scurries

behind the competitors, examining their every move and relaysthe information into a handheld microphone.

HOSTESSAnd they’re off! Battle Chickenhas officially begun. Eachcontestant must use the secretingredient in at least threeentrees. Master of Ceremonies, canyou tell us what is going on in thekitchen?

MASTER OF CEREMONIES carefully analyzes the chefs and jumpsaround spastically.

MASTER OF CEREMONIESIt appears that Idol Chef is makinga traditional ginger miso dressing.He appears to be grilling thechicken skins to create some kindof crouton.

37.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)

(MORE)



GORDON abruptly turns around to bring a pot of boiling waterto a table behind him. He shouts precautionary warnings tohis sous chefs.

GORDON (CONT’D)Behind you! Hot water!

CAMILLEMae, taste the chicken and add moreseasoning if it’s too bland.

MAEOk, after I put this in thefreezer.

MASTER OF CEREMONIESBest of luck to you, challengers.(rushes over to IDOL CHEF JAPANESE)Idol Chef Japanese, how do you

manage to do all the work on yourown?

IDOL CHEF JAPANESE is focused, but cooks with finesse. He iscool, calm, and composed.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESECooking is like painting. Yourpalette is comprised ofingredients, each contributing itsunique flavor and texture on thecanvas of a dinner plate. When Icook alone, I can harness my

energies into sculpting my dishesinstead of wasting time trying tocontrol other people.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES(awestruck) Amaaazzzinggg.

HOSTESSA true artist indeed.

Beat.

DANNYAre those...feet?

MASTER OF CEREMONIES(looks at IDOL CHEF JAPANESE’stable) Yes, it does appear to bechicken feet. Idol Chef Japanese, what are you preparing?

39.



IDOL CHEF JAPANESE is very focused and does not make eyecontact with MASTER OF CEREMONIES when he responds.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESE(curtly but wisely) Chicken broth.Ramen.

MASTER OF CEREMONIESHostess, Idol Chef Japanese isstarting to make a broth for ramenby utilizing the savory flavor ofchicken feet.

ANTOINETTA From my gastronomical expeditions,I personally regard the branch ofpoultry podiatry as a delicacy,offering rich nutrients andgelatinous satisfaction to harvest

an enticing stock.

HOSTESSCouldn’t have said it better myself.

Beat.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES stand at center stage and spread herarms majestically again.

MASTER OF CEREMONIESChefs! Your attention please!

The chefs all pause and look up.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)Before you continue, the surprisesaren’t over yet.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES reveals a basket of more surpriseingredients.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)Behold! An assortment of

additional surprise ingredients:yuzu, ginger, and black and whitesesame seeds. You must use theseingredients in at least one entree.You now have thirty minutesremaining!

MAE and ADDISON dash to gather the new surprise ingredients.MASTER OF CEREMONIES wanders around the chefs’ stationsagain.

40.



OLIVIA (sings Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on aPrayer”) “Wooahhh, we’re halfwaythere...ohhh, livin’ on aprayer...take my-”

CAMILLE(snaps at OLIVIA) Shut up!

GORDONStay focused, guys.

Beat.

SHARIs it just me, or do thechallengers look a little out ofcontrol?

ANTOINETTA The aforementioned activityconfirms that such conditions evokestrenuous physical and mentaltribulations upon both parties todisparate proportions.

DANNYThey look sweaty.

Beat.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES

Chefs! You now have 15 minutesremaining!

SHARI’m so impressed at Idol ChefJapanese’s composure. It’s almostZen-like.

DANNYBut he moves so slowly. He kind oflooks like a praying mantis.(imitates a praying mantis and

bothers SHAR) Rawr.SHAR

(bats DANNY’s praying mantis clawsaway) Will you behave yourself?You’re messing up my hair.

DANNYWhaaat. I’m hungryyy, ok? Is thefood ready yet?

41.



MASTER OF CEREMONIES resumes position at center stage.

MASTER OF CEREMONIESChefs! You now have one minuteremaining!

GORDON(distressed) What?? I don’tbelieve it!

OLIVIA Hurry up and finish plating!

CAMILLEGet out of my way!!

MASTER OF CEREMONIES5...

GORDONThat clock must be rigged!


OLIVIA Where’s the rice?


GORDONMae, did you season the chicken?


MAESomeone give me a knife!


ADDISONI need balsamic vinegar!

MASTER OF CEREMONIESChefs! Utensils down! Step awayfrom your dishes!

All of the chefs except GORDON take a step back from theirstations with their hands raised innocently.

42.



MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)(to GORDON) Sir!

GORDON continues working diligently, adding the finishingdetails to his dishes.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)SIR! Time is up!

GORDON continues fiddling with the garnishes.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)Challenger Gordon, if you do notstep away from the plate, you willbe disqualified and escorted from Kitchen Arena.

GORDON finally steps away from his station and wipes his handon his forehead. GORDON and IDOL CHEF JAPANESE stand at

center stage in front of MASTER OF CEREMONIES.

Break.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)Chefs, tonight you have survivedthe ultimate test. The judgment isupon us. Idol Chef Japanese,please serve your dishes to thepanel.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESE bows and carries his tray of food to thejudges. MASTER OF CEREMONIES assists the him with his

plates. GORDON, ADDISON, MAE, CAMILLE, and OLIVIA standsilently in line on stage right and watch the judgment.

After each dish is served, SHAR, DANNY, and ANTOINETTA makenotes on their score cards.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESEThe first course is a JapaneseSalad with Ginger Miso CarrotDressing topped with GrilledChicken Skin.

DANNYMiso dressing huh? Misohungry...ha....ha...I’m so punny.

SHARThe chicken skin is so crispy anddelicious! But the portions are sosmall that you can barely see them on the plate...

43.



Beat.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESENext we have yakitori with a sideof onions that have beencaramelized in a sake reduction

sauce.

ANTOINETTA The yakitori and caramelized onionscoexist in perfect harmony in thesame manner as the she-wolves andferal children who accompany on mytravels.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESEYakitori resulted from theinfluence of European missionariesand traders in Japan. They

introduced the breeding of chickensand it became a luxury food, hencethe main ingredient for Yakitori.

DANNYWhy is the sauce sweet?

IDOL CHEF JAPANESEI incorporated brown sugar and mirin which is a rice wine product with a high sugar content.Traditionally, yakitori sauce waskept in a pot, and when the sauce

started to run out, they would make more sauce and add it to the samepot instead of starting from scratch. In that way, the sauce was kept for a long time and passedon from generation to generation.

SHARThe chicken tastes a littleovercooked.

ANTOINETTA

I am in agreement, yet it iscarefully infused with the heartyundertones of the charcoal grill.

DANNYThe bamboo skewer was delicious.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESEUmm you weren’t supposed to eatthat.

44.



DANNYOh.

Beat.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESE

Moving on to dish number three:Panko-Crusted Chicken, pan-fried inpancetta fat, served over sobanoodles with a yuzu cream sauce andtopped with pancetta crumbles andfried sage leaves.

ANTOINETTA Before I embark on this palatableexpedition, I must articulate uponthe presentation of this exquisite masterpiece.

DANNY(dreamily) I like bacon.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESE(politely) Let me reiterate, it ispancetta. Unlike American bacon,pancetta is unsmoked and cured insalt and spices such as nutmeg,fennel, and peppercorns.

DANNY(obliviously) Mmm....bacon...

SHARI’m really impressed by the hybridJapanese and Italian influences ofyour dishes. I mean, I knew thatyour challengers own a JapaneseItalian fusion restaurant, but Ican see that you have a wide rangeof talents. The secret agent sideof me applauds you for adapting tothe situation. You’ve reallybrought your A-game, and I hopeyour competitors can keep up.

Otherwise, the score might be 50-0.Beat.

GORDON, ADDISON, MAE, CAMILLE, and OLIVIA shift the weight ontheir feet and scratch the back of their heads, obviouslynervous and uncomfortable.

45.



ANTOINETTA You exude an admirable creativity.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESEI was inspired by Japanese monks togrind the sesame seeds as they do

when they meditate daily.

Beat.

DANNY“Macarena” is a good name for thesecookies.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESE(instructionally) Macarons are aFrench confection made from a mixture of egg whites and almondflour.

DANNYIt’s ok. I know French is a hardlanguage.

Beat.

MASTER OF CEREMONIESIdol Chef Japanese, thank you foryour scrumptious meal. You haveeffectively distilled your twenty-five years of experience intonight’s dishes.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESE(bows) It has been my honor.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES(waving towards the challengers)Chef Gordon! You and your souschefs may approach the judges’panel.

GORDON, ADDISON, MAE, CAMILLE, and OLIVIA take their dishesto stage left. IDOL CHEF JAPANESE stands on stage right.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)Challenger Gordon, would you careto summarize experience tonight inKitchen Arena?

GORDONUhh...organized chaos?

47.



MASTER OF CEREMONIES(strokes chin) Hmm...yes...cleverlyarticulated. Please continue withthe presentation of your courses!

GORDON

(takes a deep breath) Ok. First wehave Duck Fat Fried Chicken withSesame Seeds and Assorted Greens with Olive Oil and Candied Nuts.

ANTOINETTA This is quite the valiant firstimpression!

GORDONThank you. The second course isChicken Katsu Curry with Ginger.

SHARMmm it reminds me of the curry my mom used to make for my when I wasa kid.

GORDONI wanted to channel that feeling ofhome-cooked comfort food. That’s why the next dish is Oyakodon.

SHARWhat exactly is Oyakodon? Can youtell us what it means and give us

some background?

GORDON(flustered and unsure)Umm...well...it’s a popularJapanese dish...that moms like to make for their families...

DANNYIt looks all mushy.

ANTOINETTA

Likewise, the chicken is severelyunder-seasoned.

GORDONOh. Maybe the heat of the rice isnumbing your taste buds.

DANNYMaybe the heat of YOUR rice isnumbing YOUR MOM’S taste buds.

48.



SHARJust ignore him. I think we’reready for the next dish.

GORDONI have prepared Fruit Skewers with

Balsamic Vinegar and fresh CherryPetals.

ANTOINETTA The ingredients strike me asinconsistent with your so-calledtheme of “home-cooked” meals.

SHARWell, I think it’s awesome! Out ofall your dishes so far, this oneshows off your fusion talents thebest.

DANNYThe skewers were delicious.

SHARWhat is your problem?? You atethem again???

DANNYOh. Whoops. My bad.

Beat.

GORDONAnd last but not least, for dessert we have Gingersnap Ice Cream Sandwiches with Lemon Gelato.

DANNYThe cookies taste salty...

ANTOINETTA gags rudely.

SHARChef Gordon...I think you put salt

instead of sugar in these cookies.DANNY

Only someone from ucla would bethat dumb.

Beat.

49.

SHAR

Oh gross! I thought I m

it clear that I'm allerg

to fruits and vegetables

GORDON

But you ate all of Idol

Chef's dishes without any

problems.

SHAR

That's because he didn't

give me a reason to gag.

I can barely look at

this, let alone eat it.

(Hostess removes plate)

GORDON

That doesn't make any se



SHARDidn’t you taste these before youplated them?

GORDONI...I instructed my sous chefs to

taste them (looks specifically atMAE) because I was taking care ofother dishes. I sincerelyapologize for what they haveoverlooked.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES(to GORDON) Thank you for yourdishes. (to SHAR, DANNY, andANTOINETTA) Judges, please submityour evaluations so we cancalculate the results.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES collects the notecards from the judgesand studies them.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)(nods at the judges) It isdecided. Challenger, Idol ChefJapanese- follow me.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES, GORDON, and IDOL CHEF JAPANESE taketheir spots at center stage.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)(dramatically) The perfect chef

holds in his hand the welfare ofhumanity and the promise of a moreappetizing tomorrow. The outcomeof every battle in Kitchen Arenainvolves thorough deliberation.The decision is alwayspainstakingly difficult for thejudges. Except this time. I wouldlike to announce.....

MASTER OF CEREMONIES misleadingly bows at GORDON. ADDISON,CAMILLE, MAE, and OLIVIA prematurely cheer and scurry over to

hug GORDON. DANNY starts clapping.DANNY

Aww, yay! They’re so happy!

MASTER OF CEREMONIES....that I just dropped my contact.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES bends over to retrieve it and looks up,confused by the celebratory commotion.

50.



MASTER OF CEREMONIES (CONT’D)Wait, why are you guys celebrating?You’re the losers. Idol ChefJapanese is the winner.

GORDON, ADDISON, CAMILLE, MAE, and OLIVIA freeze.

DANNY inappropriately releases a confetti party popper.

DANNYWhoops.

BLACKOUT.

END ACT 1.

INTERMISSION

51.



GORDON(annoyed) So the best we could do was put salt in the dessert insteadof sugar? (glares at MAE)

OLIVIA

Stop it. You know Mae feelshorrible about that.

MAE stares at the ground, hurt and embarrassed.

ADDISONIt was an honest mistake.

MOTHER(watching TV) Mmmm, yes...hisbiceps look so delicious. (talksto the TV) You open that jar ofpeaches. Yeah. There you go.

Beat.

CAMILLEAnyway, we’re a team so weshouldn’t place the blame on asingle person.

GORDON(increasingly angrier) Oh wow,that’s rich. Really classy, Miss“I’m-a-Professional-Shopper.”

CAMILLEHey! The judges loved my Duck FatFried Chicken.

GORDONYou’re such a hypocrite.

ADDISONCome on, guys. It’s all in thepast. We can only move forward.

OLIVIA starts singing “Tomorrow” from the musical Annie.

OLIVIA (sweetly) “The sun'll come out,Tomorrow. Bet your bottom dollarthat tomorrow there'll be sun!”

MOTHER(points at the TV) Oh look, herecomes the part where they bash onyour Oyakodon.

53.



Beat.

MOTHER (CONT’D)I’m really surprised you guys messed that up since I made it allthe time for you when you were

little.

OLIVIA But I don’t think you’ve ever givenus the formal recipe.

MOTHERWell whenever I try to give youtips, you kids kick me out of thekitchen and say, “We know, Mom, we went to culinary school.”

ADDISON

Can you tell us what we did wrong?

MOTHERToo much soup or stock will preventthe eggs from cooking fast. Itlooks like you ended up with runnyscrambled eggs and mushy rice.

ADDISONWhat about when they asked us for more of the background of the dish.What would you have said?

MOTHERThat’s easy. The name of thispopular donburi dish comes from itstwo main ingredients, literally meaning “parent-and-child ricebowl.” It is a poetic reflectionof the fact that both the chickenand egg are used in the dish.

OLIVIA Wow, Mommy, how do you know all ofthis?

MOTHERMy mom taught me how to cook when I was a teenager just like how mygrandmother taught my mom.

54.

(MORE)



It’s a recipe that has been in ourfamily for generations, but when Itried to pass it onto you kids, youall told me that it was too simplefor your classical trainingstandards. Au contraire!

CAMILLEWell you never tell us cool storieslike this. You’re always busygibbering about trivial things.

MOTHERExactly. I don’t bother becauseyou shut yourselves off from evensmall comments. How can I expectyou to care about family stories?

Beat.

GORDONMom, be honest...Did you expect usto fail on the show?

MOTHERI wouldn’t call it failing....Ilove you all very much, but I couldtell you weren’t ready. That’s whyI tried to help.

GORDON(sadly) Yeah. (sighs) Thanks a

lot, Mom.

Beat.

MOTHERHere, I’ll turn this off if it’ll make you feel better.

MOTHER clicks the remote in the direction of the TV.

MOTHER (CONT’D)And I’ll make a nice lunch for you

all. It’s the least I can do.Then you can taste how a real chefcooks.

The chefs look even more depressed.

MOTHER (CONT’D)Ooo...too soon, huh?

No response.

55.

MOTHER (CONT'D)



MOTHER (CONT’D)I’m just gonna go now.

MOTHER exits stage right.

OLIVIA

Wait, I want to watch you cook andhear more of your stories.

ADDISONThat sounds like a good idea. Ithink it’ll take my mind off ofthis mess.

OLIVIA and ADDISON exit stage right.

GORDON and CAMILLE take their vacant seats on the sofa. MAEremains silent and motionless.

CAMILLEMae, you’ve been awfully quiettoday. Is everything ok?

MAEOh. Yeah, just tired.

CAMILLEYour skin looks a little pale.Make sure you don’t get sick.

MAEYeah, it’s probably just stress

from the past couple of days.

GORDONIs that your excuse for not tastingthe dishes that I asked you to?

CAMILLEOh my gosh, will you just get overit?!

GORDON(stands up) No, I won’t, Camille.

Because unlike the two of you, I’m actually taking this seriously.

Beat.

GORDON (CONT’D)We made fools of ourselves onnational television.

56.

(MORE)



Just because you’re my sistersdoesn’t mean that you’re immunefrom getting fired. I’m doing youboth a favor.

CAMILLE

You’re such a jerk. I’m utterly,truly speechless. (stands up andturns her back to GORDON) You’vestooped to a new level. I don’tknow what to say. I have no wordsfor you. (turns to face GORDONagain) And for the record, I’m doing YOU a favor. You should bethankful to have me in yourkitchen. Everyone knows that I’m abetter cook than you. (to MAE)Come on, Mae. Let’s go. Ourdinner is getting cold.

MAEIt’s ok. I’m not hungry.

CAMILLEOh. Ok.

GORDONWait. Mae, you haven’t eatenanything all day.

MAEYeah...my stomach has been a little

upset today.

GORDONBut you didn’t eat anythingyesterday either. Or the daybefore that.

MAEOh, I did. You just didn’t notice.

GORDONYou’ve already used that excuse on

me.CAMILLE

Actually, Gordon’s right. Ihaven’t been seeing you eat muchrecently.

MAE(nervously) Oh I’m trying out a newdiet.

57.

GORDON (CONT’D)



CAMILLEAre you kidding me? You don’t needto diet.

GORDONSomething’s not right. You didn’t

taste those dishes like I asked youto at the competition. You didn’teven taste your own cookies. It was so unlike you.

CAMILLEYeah, and I never expected you, ofall people, to make such a rookie mistake of using salt instead ofsugar. Mae, is there something you want to tell us?

MAE

No, don’t worry about me.

CAMILLECome on. What’s on your mind?

MAE(looks at the ground) I...I justhate seeing you guys fight.

GORDONCamille and I fight all the time.That’s not why you’re acting weird.Tell us the truth.

CAMILLE(gently) Wait...Mae..have you beenavoiding eating?

MAEI just didn’t want to gain weightfor the show. The camera adds tenpounds.

GORDONWhy are you so concerned about

that?

58.



MAE(bursts into an emotional stream ofconsciousness) Because I’m theyoungest and everyone tells me thatI’m like a little Asian doll butI’m not pretty like Camille or a

good singer like Olivia so I alwayshave to be polite and quiet andnice or else people won’t like mebut now I let everybody downbecause I felt so weak during thecontest especially with those heavylights beating down on me and I wasn’t thinking right and I was sostupid and now you all hate me.

MAE hyperventilates a little as she catches her breath.

GORDON

Oh my gosh, I had no idea you feltlike this. Forget everything Isaid before. I am so sorry.

MAEYou have nothing it be sorry about.It’s all my fault.

CAMILLEYou are a beautiful, strong,healthy girl no matter what, and Iam proud that you’re my sister.Don’t compare yourself to me or

Olivia or let anyone make you feelinferior, including me. In fact, Ipromise not to go on any moreshopping sprees until we get youbetter.

MAENo, I’m a horrible person andeverything is my fault.

CAMILLEStop thinking like that. We love

you very much, and Gordon and I aregoing to take care of you.

MAEPlease don’t tell anyone else about my eating disorder.

59.



GORDONWe’ll help you find a therapist and make a long-term recovery plan.We’ll get through this together.

GORDON and CAMILLE give MAE a hug.

BLACKOUT.

SCENE 2

INT. RESTAURANT. DAYTIME.

ADDISON, OLIVIA, CAMILLE, and MAE are prepping in thekitchen. The dining area is empty.

GORDON enters.

OLIVIA Any customers yet?

GORDON(helplessly) No. Still empty, justlike I expected. At this rate, we’ll be closed in a month.

ADDISONIt’s probably just a slow Monday.

OLIVIA stirs a pot.

GORDON(to OLIVIA) Don’t bother making any more food. It’s just a waste ofingredients.

OLIVIA I’m just trying out the recipe for miso soup that Mommy gave meyesterday for fun. She told me andAddison some really interestingstories.

CAMILLELike what?

OLIVIA Well, for example, she said thatjust the aroma of miso soupreminded her of when she was alittle girl.

60.

(MORE)

: Food for Thought



Grandma would make it for breakfast with a small bowl of rice on theside. The soup stock was made from dried sardines, and sometimes sheleft it in the soup because it wasa good source of calcium, but Mom

hated them. Grandma would puttofu, seaweed, and green onions init too. Mom said that her richerfriends would tease her about itbecause it wasn’t elegant to addextra ingredients. But our family was poor and they needed to get the most nutrients from the soup.

MAESo this is Grandma’s recipe?

OLIVIA

Actually, Mom said the recipe isreally old. It originated from ourancestors in Japan at least fourgenerations ago.

ADDISONI thought that was really cool.Listening to your mom’s storieslast night made me want to ask my mom about our family’s recipes. Inever thought about the storiesbehind food.

OLIVIA Yeah. We take food for granted ina way.

Beat.

MAE(timidly) Can I try some?

OLIVIA Of course!

OLIVIA scoops a bowl for MAE.OLIVIA (CONT’D)

Does anyone else want some?

The chefs respond in unison.

GORDONSure, why not.

61.

OLIVIA (CONT'D)



CAMILLEThat sounds good.

ADDISONYes please.

OLIVIA scoops a bowl of soup for everyone. She holds up herbowl.

OLIVIA To family and food! Cheers!

The chefs clink bowls and take a sip.

CAMILLEOh wow, this is amazing!

MAEMmmmm!

ADDISONCan I have the recipe too?

The chefs continue slurping their soup.

OLIVIA This kind of reminds me why I wanted to become a chef.

ADDISONWhat do you mean?

OLIVIA I just like watching people’sreactions when they eat good food.

CAMILLECreeper...

OLIVIA I know it sounds weird, but I liketo see people indulging in foodthat I make. I guess I have peoplelike my family to thank for

teaching me how to cook when I waslittle and inspiring me to make acareer out of cooking.

MAEYeah, and it’s pretty cool that wecan carry on these recipes andtraditions from our ancestors.

62.



CAMILLEIt’s like we’re talking through thelanguage of food to tell ourfamily’s story.

Beat.

GORDONHey, guys. Not to ruin the moment,but I just want to take this timeto apologize for being such agrouch this week. I know I was acontrol freak, and I’m sorry forblaming you guys.

CAMILLEI want to say sorry too. Iprobably didn’t have the bestattitude, and I’m really going to

try to change. (looks lovingly atMAE). It just took a dumbcompetition for me to realize thatsome things are more important.

OLIVIA The past week has been crazy forall of us. We all could have donea lot of things differently. Wecould have beensmarter...tougher...(slowly breaksinto Kanye West’s “Stronger” andbobs her head)...harder, better,

faster, stronger...n-n-now thatthat don’t kill me, can only make me stronger, I need you to hurry upnow, ‘cause I can’t-

ADDISONAnyway, we shouldn’t have anyregrets. We’re not just a team.We’re a family.

MAEI think we can use this as a wake-

up call. A time to reevaluate ourcooking philosophies.

OLIVIA And learn more about our family andculture along the way.

Beat.

63.



GORDONWhat do you guys think about addingsome of Mom’s recipes to the menu?

MAEI think that’s a great idea!

ADDISONYou know, I was thinking the samething. Not to bring up bad memories, but I think Idol ChefJapanese won because he knew moreabout the food he was cooking.

OLIVIA Even though our restaurant iscalled “Amore,” we haven’t beentruly cooking our food with love.And even though we don’t always

like to listen, we could learn alot from Mom.

GORDONWhy don’t we invite her here fordinner? We could use some qualityfamily time to ask Mom for morerecipes.

CAMILLEWell, the food isn’t going to cookitself if we stand around talkingall day. Let’s get to work!

BLACKOUT.

SCENE 3

INT. RESTAURANT. NIGHTTIME.

MOTHER and UNCLE HUBERT are seated at the table.

GORDON, ADDISON, CAMILLE, OLIVIA, and MAE walk from thekitchen on stage right to the dining table. They are each

carrying plates of food.OLIVIA

And dinner is served!

CAMILLEOh, Uncle Hubert, I didn’t knowyou’d be joining us tonight.

64.

: What's for Dinner?, Take II



UNCLE HUBERT(holding a wine glass) I didn’teither!

MOTHERI figured that he’d remember more

stories than me. I’m too “oldschool.”

MAEWell, the more the merrier! Enjoy!

The chefs take their seats at the dining table.

MOTHERI can see that you made my misosoup.

OLIVIA

Yes, thanks for the recipe, Mom!

MAEIt’s really good.

CAMILLEHow are you feeling today, Mae?

MAEI’m doing a lot better. Thanks.

Beat.

UNCLE HUBERTMmm I love the smell of miso soup.(to MOTHER) It reminds me of thebreakfasts that mom used to makefor us.

MOTHERI said the same thing!

UNCLE HUBERTMy favorite tradition was our feaston New Years Day. Grandpa would

barbecue at the grill and Grandma made traditional foods likefishcakes with alternating red and white layers to symbolize therising sun, mochi, mashed sweetpotato and chestnut which becomes agolden color to symbolize wealth,and ozoni.

65.

(MORE)



And we’d send New Year’s Daypostcards like how we sendChristmas cards here in America.

MOTHERYep. And then we all started

getting older so our grandparentstaught us their techniques andtraditions.

OLIVIA Why didn’t you teach us theserecipes?

MAEYeah, we never had a New Year’sfeast.

MOTHER

Yeah, I treat you guys to Benihanainstead. Entertaining and appetizing!

CAMILLEBut that’s not the same at all! Weneed to start preserving theserecipes now before they’reforgotten forever.

MOTHEROh, that was a long time ago. Ibarely remember it.

GORDONUncle Hubert, do you know therecipes?

UNCLE HUBERT(bluntly) No.

ADDISON(disappointed) Well, so much forthat brilliant idea.

UNCLE HUBERTI have something better.

UNCLE HUBERT takes a notebook out of his pocket and puts iton the table. GORDON picks it up and flips through thepages.

GORDONWhat’s this?

66.

UNCLE HUBERT (CONT'D)



INT. RESTAURANT. DAYTIME.

GORDON, ADDISON, CAMILLE, OLIVIA, and MAE are cooking up astorm in the kitchen. There are many customers in the diningarea including MOTHER. Business is booming.

GORDON stops and rests against the table to wipe the sweatfrom his forehead with a kitchen towel. He takes out his wallet and reminisces over the fortune from Scene 1.

GORDON(to himself) “Today is a lucky dayfor those who remain cheerful andoptimistic.” (smiles to himself)

OLIVIA (to GORDON) Why are you juststanding around?! These plateshave to go, go, go!

GORDONOh, yeah, sorry. Is the Okra Saladready yet?

MAEI already plated it.

GORDONWhat about the Braised Pork Belly?

ADDISONThat was finished and served like

five minutes ago. Quit slacking!

GORDONWow, you guys are so efficient thatit’s like you don’t even need meanymore.

Beat.

The chefs continue working silently on stage left.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESE enters from stage right. MOTHER notices

him immediately. She gasps loudly and rushes over to greethim.

MOTHERIdol Chef Japanese, what a pleasureto see you!! (strokes his arm) I’m your biggeset fan.

68.



IDOL CHEF JAPANESE(steps away uncomfortably) Uh, hithere. Is Chef Gordon in thekitchen?

MOTHER

Oh! Of course! Anything you need!I’ll get him right away. Why don’tyou take a seat while you wait?

MOTHER drags IDOL CHEF JAPANESE to her table.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESEThanks, but that’s not reallynecessary. I just want to speak toChef Gordon immediately.

MOTHERYour wish is my command!

MOTHER scurries to the kitchen.

MOTHER (CONT’D)Gordon! We have a specialcustomer! I think you should goout there to talk to him.

GORDONOh? Ok, I’ll be right out.

CAMILLESpecial guest? Who is it?

MOTHERYes. (her eyes light up) Someone with incredible je ne sais quoi!

CAMILLELet’s go see.

The chefs and MOTHER re-enter the dining area.

ADDISONOh wow. (to IDOL CHEF JAPANESE)

What are YOU doing here?GORDON

Addison! Don’t be rude.

ADDISONSorry, I’m just really shocked.

69.



IDOL CHEF JAPANESEChefs, I apologize for theunannounced visit, but I was in theneighborhood and I wanted to talkto all of you.

Beat.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESE (CONT’D)Chef Gordon, thank you for beingsuch a worthy competitor. I knowthat you had a lot at stake, andthe loss wasn’t easy to handle.

CAMILLE(sarcastically) You could say thatagain.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESE

Ok...I know that you had a lot atstake, and the loss wasn’t easy tohandle. However, you are all youngchefs with years and years ahead ofyou to learn and improve. I cansee that you’re already makingsignificant progress since the lasttime I saw you.

GORDONTo be honest, losing to you was the most humiliating moment of my life.But looking back on it, I think it

was a blessing in disguise.

MAEYeah, we actually uncovered newrecipes and stories about ourfamily that we probably wouldn’thave been exposed to if we had won.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESEI applaud you all immensely. Theculinary world is ruthless, butdon’t be discouraged especially by

the opinions of three random judges. I see the same spirit inall of you that I had when I wasyour age. So before I go, there’ssomething I think you should have.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESE hands an envelope to GORDON.

70.



IDOL CHEF JAPANESE (CONT’D)Best of luck to you, chefs. I hopeyou’ll keep in touch.

IDOL CHEF JAPANESE turns around and prepares to exit. MOTHERis giddy like a little giggling schoolgirl.

MOTHEROh! Let me escort you to your car!

MOTHER links her arm around IDOL CHEF JAPANESE’s arm.

BLACKOUT as they exit.

SCENE 5

INT. LIVING ROOM. FUTURE.

GORDON OF THE FUTURE is seated in a chair. GORDON JR. andGORDANA are on the couch. They are dressed in the sameclothes as the intro video.

GORDANA Well, Daddy. What did Idol Chefgive you?

GORDONYeah, you can’t just leave ushanging after telling us your storyfor two hours.

GORDON OF THE FUTUREKids, there may come a time in yourlife when it feels like the entire world is against you. You may feellost, doubtful, and beaten down.But it is these precise strugglesthat help you appreciate life. Byrolling with the punches, you’llgrow as a person. So celebrateevery accomplishment, no matter howsmall, and enjoy the ride.

GORDANA Dad, you still didn’t answer ourquestion.

GORDON OF THE FUTUREOK, let me put it differently.Kids, the world is your oyster, andsometimes you should expect theunexpected.

71.

(MORE)

: Back to the Future



After that day, Idol Chef Japanesebecame a regular customer. He even wrote us a flawless review thathelped redeem our reputation, and we all travelled to Japan thatyear. We’re still friends to this

day (almost 25 years later) and hehas taught me more than I couldhave ever imagined.

GORDON JR.Wait, you guys travelled to Japan?Where did you get the money? Ithought you were pretty broke.

GORDON OF THE FUTUREWe were...until that day. IdolChef Japanese gave us the check forthe $50,000 that he won from the

competition. We invested half ofit into the restaurant and got thenew equipment and furniture that wehad dreamed of, and we divided therest among us.

GORDANA So when you were in Japan, was thathow you met mom?

GORDON OF THE FUTURELet’s save that story for nextyear, kids.

BLACKOUT.

END ACT II.

TED.

72.

GORDON OF THE FUTURE (CONT'D)

USC Nikkei Culture Night 2012 Script

Documents

Transcript of USC Nikkei Culture Night 2012 Script