Generation X- New Edit Script

Generation X: What if there was no News? By Peter Cialkowski Skye McCarthy My Phan Fatema Rajmohamed Hannah Rucker Courtney Weiss January 27, 2009 CAST (in order of appearance) Mary Stevens..............................Fatema Rajmohamed Nancy Patrone.......................................My Phan Cynthia Johansson............................Courtney Weiss Jill Myers....................................Skye McCarthy Danny Masterson............................Peter Cialkowski Amy Myers.....................................Hannah Rucker SCENE I VIDEO: INT. HOUSE – BEDROOM – MORNING MOMENTARILY ON THE SCREEN: TITLE SLIDE

MUSIC PLAYING: It’s Still Rock n’ Roll to Me by Billy Joel (MARY is getting ready for school; she steps in front or a mirror. She is putting on a necklace. FREEZEFRAME on MARY for a few seconds; shows her name, age, and high school at the bottom of the screen. Video segment returns to her getting ready for school, and then leaving on the bus.) 1

INT. SCHOOL – HALLWAY – MORNING (NANCY is walking down the hallway, pushing people out of her way. FREEZEFRAME on NANCY; shows her name, age, and high school at the bottom of the screen. The screen then returns to her pushing her way through the hallway.) INT. SCHOOL – HALLWAY- MORNING (CYNTHIA is putting up gay rights signs around the school. FREEZEFRAME on CYNTHIA with gay rights poster in the background; shows name, age, and high school at the bottom of the screen. Video returns to her putting up posters.) INT. SCHOOL BUS – MORNING (Screen shows JILL is getting off a bus. She puts on a leather jacket; FREEZEFRAME on JILL for a few seconds showing her name, age, and high school at the bottom of the screen. She resumes putting on her jacket, and then leaves the bus, walking towards the school.) EXT. SCHOOL – BENCH – MORNING (DANNY is playing the guitar on a bench outside of school; FREEZEFRAME on DANNY showing his name, age, and high school at the bottom of the screen. Video segment returns to DANNY leaving the bench, and walking towards the school.) EXT. SCHOOL – HALLWAY – MORNING (AMY is playing with her Rubik’s Cube. NANCY enters the screen and knocks it out of her hands. FREEZEFRAME on AMY dodging for the Cube, her name, age, and high school are shown at the bottom of the screen. Video returns to JILL walking up to her, JILL and NANCY share glances and NANCY walks away. The bell rings.) END SCENE SCENE II VIDEO: INT. SCHOOL – CLASSROOM – DAY MOMENTARILY ON BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN: January 7, 1980

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(Bell rings) (Students walk in to classroom) STUDENT #1: (making funny face) Gross me out, Government. STUDENT #2: (taking seat) For sho? It’s one of my favorite classes. (STUDENTS take their seats and continue talking) TEACHER: (Standing up from the desk) Now, settle down! (Paper airplane is thrown towards TEACHER.) TEACHER: Very funny! (looks STUDENT #3) Pick it up! (STUDENT #3 gets off seat and picks up the paper airplane) TEACHER: (looks around) Did anyone watch the news over the Christmas break? If so, please share your thoughts about the incident between the Soviets and Afghanistan. Who would like to start? Amy: (raises hand eagerly) Oh! Pick me! TEACHER: Only Amy? (eyebrow raises) I’m sure more than one of you must at least caught a glimpse at the News when you were clicking around for your shows. AMY: (raise still raised) Oh! NANCY: (tauntingly) Oh, bag your face, (laughs) you’re such a schmooze. TEACHER: Danny, since you were so active, would mined telling the class about the conflict between these two countries. DANNY: (stands up) Well, as a matter a fact, I don’t mind telling you. (The class laughs) DANNY: The conflict involved the Soviet Union forces supporting the Marxist People’s Democratic Party of Afghanistan against the Mujahidin resistance. The United

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States in conjunction with Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and other Muslim countries supported the Mujahidin resistance. TEACHER: (looking aghast) Wow Danny. I must say, I am quite impressed. (looking around the classroom) Would anyone else like to elaborate? (AMY raises and waves her hand) TEACHER:

Amy, would you like to say something?

(AMY nods excitedly) AMY: (confidently) The Afghan government requested to the Soviet Union to send forces into Afghanistan to assist them in the fight against the Mujahidin rebels. The rebels had led a military coup against the government of Afghanistan. The Soviet Union responded to the call of aid from the original Afghan government by sending in tanks and crews into Kabul, Afghanistan’s capital, to secure the airfields. The anti-communist rebels then sought support from the United States. U.S. services began to aid the Mujahidin forces. President Carter even signed an order authorizing the CIA to conduct covert propaganda operations against the communist regime. TEACHER: Very good Amy. I’m glad somebody pays attention to the details of the war. (“Dork!” is being said in the background) MARY: (says without raising her hand) Weren’t the two countries fighting over the Persian Gulf because the region contained oil reserves and natural gas reserves? CYNTHIA: Hella’ I have seen that. Didn’t the Soviet dress up as the Afghan and used the “Trojan tactic” on them? It went something like the Soviet Union dressing up as Afghans and being airlifted into Afghanistan to overthrow the regime of the coup president, Hafizollah Amin. TEACHER: Yes, that is true. But for a better description of the war, I want all of you that didn’t pay attention to the news over your winter break, let’s watch this video. (Teacher puts a video in the VCR)

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CUT TO: (A video segment on Afghan war)

(video segment ends) CUT TO: (TEACHER turns of the TV and turn back to the students) TEACHER: (leans against the desk) I can understand, for most “young adults” your age, you are more interested in “socializing” than your future. However, please understand and be appreciative of the US ARMY during this time of crisis (pause). The conditions for the soldiers are very harsh. The soldiers are being infected with malaria, hepatitis, typhus and many other sicknesses that I am sure most of you have never heard of. They are risking their lives for peace... (The screen pans across the students in room while the TEACHER is talking, then focuses on DANNY.) DANNY: (curiously) What does it take to become a soldier? NANCY: (mockingly) No way Danny! You in the Army? As if! END SCENE: STAGE: ON SCREEN: SOVIET AFGHAN WAR SLIDE 5

(Students rush across the stage from behind the screen; the  crowd disperses stage right, leaving DANNY and NANCY at   their lockers.)  NANCY: I can’t believe people actually want to waste their  lives for those messed­up­country. If a country cannot  protect itself, what is the point in fighting for them? DANNY: I dunno, might not be so bad. Think about it Nanc, if  we can get the Soviets out of Afghanistan, it proves  something. We can’t let the commies take over one country to  the next. Haven’t you heard the about domino affect.  NANCY: I’m sorry, I prefer my history class to be my nap time. And as if! We’re sending soldiers overseas to fight a battle that could be resolved through compromise. DANNY: And what kind of compromise is that? If we keep giving in to these compromises... They’ll keep asking for more. We want to stop them completely, not negotiate. NANCY: Ugh! Stop being such a bohunk! (storms off stage right) (DANNY signs, drops his head, mumbles, and mopes off stage right) END SCENE SCENE III VIDEO: EXT. CAFETERIA – DAY MOMENTARILY ON BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN: June 11, 1982 (NANCY is sitting under a tree reading a book and CYNTHIA approaches her, the two converse)

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CYNTHIA: Hey after finals do you want to go see that new movie, ah, what’s it called (taps her chin)? NANCY: Well it could be Poltergeist, Star Track, maybe it’s E.T., Mega Force, or Blade Runner... (about to continue) CYNTHIA: (exites) Yeah, that’s it, E.T. So how ‘bout it? I heard it was about an alien who was lost, and wound up on Earth somehow. If it’s anything like those other sci-fi movies, I think it’ll be good. The last one we saw, Escape from New York, was so futuristic... it was insane. Didn’t you go see that with us? NANCY: Ha, yeah, their plot was intense, ugh, I don’t want the world to end up with high crime rates, and turn into a real life Gotham city. (thinking) Technology is suppose to bring us good, but I don’t know if it’s worth all the trouble it could case. Even graphic novels like Watchmen show the dangers technology can create. Gag me with a spoon, I don’ want to live in that world. NANCY: (nodding) I totally agree, technologic advances scare me. But as for E.T., wouldn’t it be insane if there were life on other planets? Hey wait, did you hear about that retired policeman seeing strange flashing lights in the sky last Christmas? I mean, he said it didn’t look like any form of man-made aircraft... but what else could it be? Ugh, that story is so like, oh my God! Wait ... who else is coming to the movie with us? (Mary walks into the screen, and sits near CYNTHIA) CYNTHIA: Wait, was that on the news? (looks disbelieve) I didn’t hear anything about any sightings. (laughs) He is a retired old guy though, maybe his meds were messed up and he went loopy. Where was he anyway? Oh...and Jill and Danny are coming, if that’s okay. NANCY: Ugh, I hope Jill doesn’t invite her lame sister. But the old-bag in New York was probably off his rocker at the time. I mean, it was Christmas, he was probably feeling pretty good. (MARY starts to listen in on the conversation closely)

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CYNTHIA: (laughs) That concludes our mystery. (searching through her bags) Well, there might be a slight chance the weirdo coming with us. Make me barf! NANCY: Schya. MARY: Wait, are you talking about Amy or the Aliens? (NANCY and CYNTHIA turn their attention to MARY) NANCY: (smirk) Amy now, why? MARY: I don’t see why you’re making fun of her, I mean, aren’t you B.F.F. with her sister, Jill? NANCY: (rolls eyes) I’m only speaking the truth, she’s a total dweeb. What club was she pictured in on the school newspaper...Biology Club? Come on, that’s lame. MARY: You should really try to be more open-minded. TRANSITION TO STAGE: ON SCREEN: FUTURISTIC MOVIE SLIDE

(JILL is standing at her locker; CYNTHIA enters stage right, and catches JILL before she leaves) CYNTHIA: Hey, you’re going to the movie tonight, right? (CYNTHIA runs up and taps JILL on the shoulder) JILL: (turns around) Yeah, why? CYNTHIA: Is your sister tagging along? JILL: Well, I did tell I was going to see E.T. with her sometime, so yea, I invited her, Is that a problem?

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CYNTHIA: (shakes head) No, no, I just invited Nancy, that’s all. I don’t think those get along well. JILL: (rolls eyes) Ugh, really? I didn’t think Nancy was into that sci-Fi stuff. CYNTHIA: I dunno, she seems to know a lot about aliens and UFO. Did you heard about that old guy sighting the UFO last Christmas? I think it was in New York...scary stuff. (the two slowly walks away; exiting stage right) JILL: Ugh...I’ll just go with my sister some other time. (stops walking) Dude, really? It was a UFO? I didn’t know that, I thought the old man just saw flashing lights. Where did you get the 411? CYNTHIA: From Nancy? Who would have thought, right? She actually paid attention to the news. (turns around) Have you even heard the tales about First Lady Nancy Reagan? JILL: Oh please, that story is so March. She was dressing in those ragged clothes only to be on the good side of the press. I mean, even though it was just a ploy to stop people from accusing her of spending too much. But, who wears second-hand clothes in public?! Cynthia: (laughs) Well then, you haven’t seen some of the talk shows with her as a guest. Man, that women won’t stop talking about drug abuse. JILL: I’ve been They only focus term. (looks at or the parental right).

busy. Well, every First Lady does that. on one topic throughout their husbands the watch) Look at the time, I gotta motor units are going to deck me (runs-exit stage

CYNTHIA: (scream-runs after-exit stage right) You’re still coming to the movie right? (JILL voices “Fer sure!” behind the stage as the light went black for video transition) END SCENE SCENE IV

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VIDEO: INT. HOUSE – EVENING MOMENTARILY ON BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN: March 23, 1983 (NANCY and DANNY are sitting on the couch. They are watching The Smurfs. DANNY’s MOTHER walks into the room; she is covering the mouthpiece of a phone.) MOTHER: (talking to DANNY) Hey Danny boy! Turn the channel to 23! DANNY: (hesitant) Why? This is the newest episode; we’ve been waiting for this. MOTHER: (looks displease) Please boy! Your Aunt Donna just told me President Reagan is going to put lasers in space. DANNY: (changes channel) You haven’t heard this? (hands her the remote) MOTHER: You don’t want to stay to watch? (DANNY pulls NANCY off the couch; about to leave the room) DANNY: No worries, we watched his speech earlier. (DANNY and NANCY exit) CUT TO: INT. HOUSE – SUNROOM (NANCY is sitting on one of the couches while DANNY is getting drinks) NANCY: (complaining) Why did we leave? I kinda wanted to watch his speech; I didn’t get to see all of it earlier. (DANNY returns with two cups; hands NANCY one then settle himself on the couch) DANNY: (takes a sip) It’s everything you already know, he’s just telling everyone how he’s going to save the world by

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putting lasers in space. (laughs) I can’t believe they’re trying to pull this off, like we have the technology. NANCY: (intrigue) It is a little far fetched, but then again, we were the one who dropped the atomic bomb. I can see why this is being publicize. He’s just doing it to scare  away the Soviets. And it’s working. DANNY: They’re not the only ones. What if this turns into World War III? I mean, we already had a Russian scare, when they invaded Afghanistan. Why would they need to pretend to put lasers in space if nothing is wrong! I mean...(quietly) I didn’t think I would be signing up for nuclear war once I got out of high school. NANCY: (chokes) Wait, what? DANNY: (realizes) I mean where do you see yourself after high school? NANCY: College, (sounds unsure) that seems to be the place where everyone wants to go nowadays, but realistically (pause; lights up) I want to be an apprentice as a bartender; then I’m going to open my own business. (starts to blush) Perhaps, settle down have some kids? What do you think? (NANCY turns toward DANNY looking determined) DANNY: (seems uninterested) That’s a good plan Nance, but for me, realistically, I doubt I could get in anywhere that can supply me with a solid college education. NANCY: So what you’re saying is... (questioning) DANNY: (serious) I think I’m going to join the Army. NANCY: Psyche, right? (laughs to herself then realizes) What’s a good reason for that? Don’t you think joining the army during, (pauses) during this arms race; this nuclear conflict ... is dangerous? DANNY: I feel like it’s my job, as a citizen, plus I can’t afford college right now, and this could be a great opportunity to get a good education, leadership skills and a chance to serve my country. For me, I think it’s a great path. 11

NANCY: (disappointed) Really? You don’t see yourself settling down somewhere, maybe having a few kids? Living a good life? If we even get the chance. DANNY: Maybe, ugh, the way the arms race is going right now, I don’t even know if I’ll have a choice in which way I should go. It won’t end anytime soon. If Reagan continues to intimidate Russia and those commies, we’re going to have quite a war soon. And I’m afraid it’s going to be on our homeland this time. NANCY: Danny, I’m afraid, but this race is not going to end at all. Can’t you tell that no one is winning right now. Well, (restating) America may be at the lead with those shooting missiles lasers (makes hands movements), but Russia is very close behind. We’re running an endless race here. DANNY: That doesn’t give me a reason not to join to Army, if the world is going to end anyway, why not help America be the one that makes it happen? (NANCY shrugs it off; DANNY signs) END SCENE SCENE V VIDEO: INT. HOUSE – BASEMENT – MID DAY MOMENTARILY ON BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN: April 14, 1984 (Camera focuses on AMY and MARY sitting in beanbag chairs playing monopoly. JILL enters the room, and walks over to their area looking for a jacket.) AMY: (looks up) Hey, are you going to that meeting tonight? MARY: (interested) What meeting? AMY: The GAY-SRAIGHT ALLIANCE meeting. Cynthia is leading the meeting, right? (sounds bitter) (JILL nods)

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AMY: So no, I’m not coming. MARY: I can’t believe Cynthia is (pause) a lesbian. The whole aspect of that is just plain wrong. Liking the same sex (shudders). Jill (shocks) don’t tell me … JILL: (defending) Mary, we’re living in the 20th century here. (founds the jacket; puts it on) Besides, this is the GAY-STRAIGHT ALLIANCE meeting. (turns toward AMY) Yeah Amy, Cynthia is going to be our head for this year into the next. What do you have against her any way? (fixing her jacket) Are you sure, you don’t want to come. There’s a pretty big topic to discuss today. The whole AIDS situation; I really want to see what Cynth and Geoff have to say about everything. AMY: The fact that she and Nancy treated me like dirt in high school isn’t clear enough? (lazily) Nah, no thanks, I just want to enjoy my Saturday. We’re going to study for a test soon anyway. AIDS? (uninterested) What ever they are discussing, I probably knew it already. (JILL sighs and rolls her eyes) MARY: (jumps in) I heard about that, it’s scary that they don’t even know exactly where this disease came from. AMY: From what I have read in the Science Discovery, AIDS is a virus that weakens the infected human immune system. They’ve announced that you can get it from sex, sharing needles or receiving infected blood from a transfusion. (thinking) I believe it was first discovered from this “Patient Zero”. And he happens to be a homosexual (raise brow at JILL). JILL: (defending) Oh c’mon, you can’t blame the whole gay community just because of him. I’m sure in the future they’ll find out the truth, and maybe even cure it, but right now I’m off to learn what other people in the group have to say, I’ll be back around 10, later days. (JILL leaves the scene, camera follows JILL out of the house and flash white for stage transition) TRANSITION TO STAGE

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ON SCREEN: DATE SLIDE July 6, 1985 (for 5 seconds) AIDS SLIDE

(JILL, PERSON #1, and PERSON #2 enter stage right, and take their seats in the “audience” on the lower level of the stage. CYNTHIA enters stage right and walks up to the podium to speak) CYNTHIA: (opens a folder on the podium) Good afternoon, everyone (hand motion to all the audience in the auditorium). This would be the 12th meeting of this year. Since we are short on time, I would like to start right away by addressing the main concerns of today. In the past year, the AIDS epidemic is causing mayhem in the gay community. For those who are still in confusion, I was hoping we could have an open discussion for today topic (turns page on the podium). Before we start I would like to say that I have just received some this upsetting news. As you all know, one way for AIDS to be transferred is through blood transfusion. In most cases, people who have Hemophilia have higher chances of receiving this deadly disease. Ryan White (noise can be heard from audience) was a child diagnosed with AIDS last year and has been in the hospital up until this past June. When asked to be reemitted to his school, the school board refused. The family is currently battling with the school board. I would like to hear your opinions on this. JILL: (stands up) Yes, I would like to please. CYNTHIA: Go right ahead. JILL: (gets up and angles to face the audience) I think, the first order we should take care of, is to educate the people on how AIDS is really spread. I have also heard about this news and I believe Ryan’s doctor has reassured the school board that the AIDS virus within the boy’s body is harmless. The parents’ of children in his school

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district are creating a resisting force and not allowing the poor child from returning to his school. (sits down) ON SCREEN: CHANGES TO RYAN WHITE SLIDE

NANCY: (gets up and angles to face the audience) Thousand of people died last year alone from this disease, and a large amount is contributed to gay men. I am a bit worried if this incident will be blamed on the gay community. How will people treat you? (sits down) DANNY: PERSON #2: (gets up and angles to face the audience) Plus, it’s unfair because not a lot people know that they are diagnosed with AIDS. They can’t be blamed if they’re only trying to do a good deed by donating blood. (sits down) CYNTHIA: Yes, yes, but we know very little about this disease, it seems. Every time they release anything on it, a couple months later they put out information that combats the previous months. For example, it was originally stated that there was no danger to non homosexuals from contagious diseases. Five months after that statement was released, it was clear that the disease affected other groups such as injecting drug users. JILL: (gets up and angles to face PERSON #2) But you have to admit that some weight has been lifted off your shoulders in the scientific community at least. I mean they did discover that a big spread of AIDS was from blood transfusions. I just feel sad for Ryan. NANCY: (gets up and angles to face JILL) Yes, but that doesn’t make me feel safe for you. Tell the people on the street what the scientific community believes because as of now, they think that you all are walking viruses. It isn’t pleasant, and I feel we should educate the community. Perhaps create a cause to support Ryan and his family.

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CYNTHIA: (raise her voice) Thank you for all of your input. Another topic I would like to discuss is our preparation for the LIVE AIDS concert next week… (More noises coming from the audience and the stage blackout to VIDEO transition of the LIVE AIDS concert for 20 seconds)

END SCENE SCENE VI VIDEO: INT. BAR – AFTERNOON MOMENTARILY ON BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN: August 28, 1985 (Camera focuses on NANCY bartending – JILL walks in) JILL: (taps on the counter) Hey Nancy, how’s the restaurant business treating you? NANCY:(turns around) Oh hey Jill! It’s fine. Can’t complain. (cleans off the counter top) But recently people are piling in here after work hours. It's like everyone is trying to find a place to relax. JILL: Ugh, this is such a nice place, you gotta admit. (relax) Coming here and chat up with everyone about what's happening around the town. It is enjoyable. (gets excite) Did you hear about Charlotte and Roland? They're going to have a baby soon! (Nancy almost drop a glass) (pauses) that’s all the gossip I have from the town. So what’s new with you. NANCY: (down hearted) What’ll you have? JILL: Hm? Oh... um, coke please, I’m not much of a drinker anymore. I can't wait to see their baby. Babies are so 16

adorable, aren't they? NANCY: (place the glass on the counter) Here you go. JILL: Hey, Nancy...(noticing) is something wrong? (worrily) Did something happen between you and Danny? NANCY: Um, no. (taken aback) Nothing happened between us. (spirit picks up) We doing great! I just talk to him last weekend! In fact he's coming home soon. (JILL is suspicious) (A WAITER put an order on tray for NANCY; she mouths “okay” when the WAITER turns around to serve new customers) JILL: Nancy, you must be stressing these days. I told you to come with me and Cynth last month to the LIVE AIDS concert in Philadelphia. But nooooo... (waves her hands in the air) you were too busy. (takes a drink of her soda) What happened to you, Cynth and I hardly saw you then. NANCY: (laughs nervously while cleaning up) I know, I’ve just had some family issues that needed to be tended to. How was it? The concert, it must be awesome to actually be there! I caught a glimpse of it on TV. (sounds astound) The crowd was amazing! They looked like ants. JILL: (aggreeing) We thought our group was there early, but we underestimated the crowd. There were probably 100,000 people there. It was an amazing feeling. Did you know the one in London was on same day as ourss. (takes sip) LIVE AIDS raised millions of dollar for hunger in Ethiopia. NANCY: (gives the drink to the WAITER) Fer sho! I heard it was the largest broadcast world wide. WAITER: (cuts in) LIVE AIDS was mad! JILL: (jokingly) Yea...now go back to work! NANCY: It was the concert of the century, I bet. I’m regretting it now. (laugh; unconciously says) Now, more things to regret. JILL: (takes a sip; hears) More? Nanc, are you sure nothing happens?

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NANCY: (realizes) Duh! What can happen? (turns around; hands grips the sink) JILL: (notices; raises voice) Shut up! I've known you for so long. Don't you think I wouldn’t be able to tell if you are in trouble? What is it? NANCY: (hesitating) Well.... JILL: (leaning in) Yes? NANCY: (turns around) I...I’ve just... I dunno, I think I made a big mistake Jill... (Nancy saddens) JILL: (bewilder) Whoa, what happened? NANCY: You know a couple months ago or so, when I went to aerobics, and barfed all over the dance floor? JILL: (jokingly) Hah! Yeah... hurm, I do. What about it? NANCY: (serious) Well, being so busy, I forgot that I haven’t had my period in a while, and connecting that with the aerobics incident, I took a test (pauses)... I was pregnant. (starts rambling)I thought it could be wrong so I took another one, then another...I took like 5 tests. JILL: (seems happy) Aw, when did this happen, did you tell Danny? He would have been so happy? NANCY: (ashamed) He wasn’t home when I found out. He was on a training trip with the Air Force. I don't think he'd be happy if I told him...(nervously) ...I had an abortion. (sulk onto the counter) I couldn’t tell him, I had to get it taken care of. Aw, I was so scared. And now I’m regretting it more than ever. JILL: (astound) Nancy...(looks around) you actually ... (mouths “abortion?” with an unblieving look).... NANCY: (head is still on the counter; mumbling) I was scared... CUSTOMER: UM! Excuse me! Miss?

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NANCY: (raises head) What?! (angry tone) CUSTOMER: Um. An Absolutely Screwed and a Paradise for me and my lady friend please. (turns to the girl on the left) NANCY: I’ll be right with you, geeze. (Makes drink hastely, but doesn’t finish it) JILL: (notices) Hey, Charles. Nancy is not feeling well. Can you take over for the rest. NANCY: (protests) I’m fine. (JILL walks over and grab NANCY) JILL: (determinds) Let’s bounce. We have alot to talk about. Go get your stuff. (Charles walks over looking worried; NANCY walks pass him and pats his shoulder) NANCY: Thanks Charles. (went off to get her belongings) JILL: Say hello to your wife for me. (JILL waves goodbye and walks NANCY out) CUT SCENE: EXT. PARK - LATE AFTERNOON (CAMERA zooms out to see NANCY and JILL walking; then zooms in on NANCY) NANCY: Well, you see, he wouldn’t of understood, he hates the thought of abortion. It’s against his beliefs. Beside, he's at the point of his career now. I can't be an obstacle to him with the baby, it would of just weighed him down. Aw, I’m ashamed to say it. I can’t let him know, but I had to tell someone. If I had told my mother, she would of decked me. JILL: (symphathetic) Nancy, I really don’t know what to say to you at this point, but you should have told me. We’re B.F.F. for god’s sake. Why weren’t you on pill or at least

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you could of used protection. NANCY: (frustrated) Ugh, he was only home for the break. How are we suppose to know that .. that’s gonna happen. And do you think I trust using those. They just regulate the dosages for those pills a couple years back. I don’t know if that’s safe yet. JILL: Oh em gee! Nance! You guys are in your twenties. Act like ones. Almost everyone women are using pills nowadays. NANCY: (griping her hair) I’m really scare to see his reaction right now. (pleading) Just don’t tell anyone please, I don’t want him to hear about it from anyone else, I’ll tell him when I’m ready. JILL: Of course I won't tell! Just don't do anything on impulse any more, O.K? (Camera fades out on JILL and NANCY) CUT TO: INT. APARTMENT ROOM - AFTERNOON (Camera fades in on JILL and AMY in their apartment; JILL is on the phone while AMY is reading a stack of documents) JILL: (on the phone) Yeah, ha! Right, I know, I’ve seen that to many times. Ok, sure, I’ll let her know. Well thanks for calling. (pauses) Bye. (Hangs up phone – looks over to JILL) Guess who I just got off the phone with? AMY: (uninterested) Who? (AMY continues to read) JILL: (Excites) Cynthia! We were talking about Danny is finally coming back into town. Ah, it's been half a year since I last saw him. AMY: (looks up) Where was he again? JILL: He was training with the Air Force. Pretty neat stuff. AMY: I’d say. You know what else is pretty neat?

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JILL: What exactly? (walks over to AMY and sits herself down on a chair) AMY: (taps the pen on her chin) How weird... Nancy has been acting strange now that Danny’s return is so near. JILL: (opens a newpaper) Excuse me? How would you know how she’s acting, you barely see her. (interested in the newspaper in hopes of changing thee topc) Whoa, did you see the newspaper today? French is now helping Iraq in their war against Iran. AMY: (glances over) It’s only because Iraq is the main oil supplier for them. It’s actually a pretty interesting war. Did you know that the war was simply faught over border disputes. Coupled with the history of disputes was Iraq’s fear of Shia insurgency among Iraq’s supressed Shia majority. Iraq invaded Iran in 1980 and the war has continued since. (getting back on topic) JILL: Wow, I never knew the history behind the war. It is pretty slammin’. AMY: (determind) By the way, you never answered my question. Why is Nancy acting weird these days? Mary always stops by her work place and whenever she hears someone asks Nancy about Danny, she acts like she doesn't want to see him. The conclustion I’m jumping to is that she’s having an affair. At least, that makes sense. I mean, why else would she be so nervous to see Danny? JILL: (upsets) Ya know, assumptions like these just make you look like a betty. AMY: (mocked) Well, excuse me, but I could see it happening. He’s too good for her anyway, problems she’s having, she deserves it. JILL: Whoa! That was uncalled for. You have no idea what is happening with her, or anyone else in her life for that matter. AMY: (suspiciously eyeing JILL) Ooo, but you obviously do. Spill. JILL: What? (pretending to focus on the newspaper)

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AMY: (not letting go) You saw her yesterday, I know you did. You looked distraught. It must have been something she told you. You’re her B.F.F, she must have told you something. If she’s not cheating (eyebrow raises)... what is it? Danny started rooting for the other team now? Hm? JILL: (slams the newspaper on the table) That’s not it at all, stop guessing and make a scene, this is none of your business. What’s it to you anyway, you don’t even like her. AMY: It doesn’t matter, I’m just curious. Just tell me! I’m not going to stop bugging you. (AMY closes her folder) JILL: You can’t say anything to ANYONE (emphasize). Seriously! This is a big deal. If this gets out to Mary, Cynthia... or Danny especially, I’m screwed. AMY: (assuring) Fine, fine, just tell me so I can get on with my life. JILL: (nervously) She had an abortion. AMY: (mouth opens) What?! No way. Aw, does he know? No... he doesn’t, does he? JILL: (shakes her head) No, he doesn’t know. And no one should tell him, (points to AMY) other than Nancy, now keep your trap sht and leave me alone, I warned you. AMY: (laughs) Thank you (smiling mischiviously). (A while later, AMY sneaks around the corner to the nearest telephone, and calls up MARY – on screen when the phone rings, you just see MARY) MARY: Hello? (pauses) What?! No way. (pauses) So, you’re saying he's coming home next week. (pauses) Aw, I know, this is great. (pauses) Are you really? That’s pretty cold. (pauses) Ok, do what you gotta do, just leave me out of this. CUT TO: INT. APARTMENT – EARLY MORNING

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(A week later) (AMY is sitting at home when the phone rings) AMY: (answers phone) Hello? (SCENE of DANNY talking in a phone booth) DANNY: Hey, um, this is kind of a stretch, but I got home early, and I was wondering if you or your sister could give me a ride home? I want to surprise Nancy, so don't tell her (pleading). (SCENE returns to AMY) AMY: Yeah, um... My sister isn't home right now. What time does your flight come in? I’ll pick you up. (SCENE of DANNY talking in a phone booth) DANNY: (relieves) Thanks. It’s supposed to come in around 10, but I’m thinking by the time I get my luggage it’ll be around (looks at he watch) 10.30, 11 o’clock. (SCENE returns to AMY) AMY: Yep, that’s fine. I’ll see you then. (SCENE returns to AMY) DANNY: Thank you. (phone hangs up sound) (DANNY hangs up the phone and start walking) CUT TO: EXT./INT.- CAR – EARLY AFTERNOON (Amy is driving with DANNY in the passenger seat) DANNY: Ah, almost home. (relax on to the car seat) AMY: (laughs) I bet! So how was your training? It must be a tough time, huh? DANNY: (closes his eyes) It was at the beginning but I got used to it. I learned a lot. The experiences from the

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training was a killer! But I had a horrible problem with authority. I’m not one to listen to people so it took me awhile to get over that. AMY:(nodding and laughs) Sounds just like you. (sobering down) So I’m guessing you heard all about Iraq getting supplies from France. DANNY: (raises voice) Of course, Iraq is not only getting the supplies from Soviet but they are getting aircrafts from the French too. Just before I left, there was a transaction between them on the last batch for Mirage F-1s. I cannot believe this. AMY: What are Mirage…what did you call them? DANNY: Mirage F-1s are aircrafts used in wars. AMY: Oh, I see. (frowns a little) DANNY: What's wrong? You seem warped. (jokingly) I don't think I can trust you behind the wheel. AMY: There is something ... but I am not sure if I should tell you. Then again, you have the right to know. I just feel guilty keeping you in the dark. I can’t decide if I should tell it or not. DANNY: Sup? Nothing happened to my parents, right? AMY: No, they're fine. I saw them cruising around a while ago. It's... DANNY: (jumps in; voice raises) Nancy? Something is wrong with her right? Please say no! AMY: (frustrated) Ah stop yelling! Gag me with a spoon. (pauses) How about we go find a place to eat. You're probably hungry. I'll give you the 411 there. (DANNY nods and mouths "alright") CUT SCENE INT. DINER - AFTERNOON

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(Open scene at a restaurant, AMY and DANNY are handing in their menus to the waiter) WAITER: (takes menus) I'll be right out with your drinks. DANNY: Thanks. AMY: Thank you. DANNY: I can't sit here any longer, you have to tell me. AMY: Calm down... (stares) promises me you totally loose your cool? WAITER: Here ya go. (places drinks on the table - then leaves screen) (DANNY takes a drink and nods) AMY: "Okay," (breath out) Nancy...well... had an abortion... DANNY: (looks dumbfounded) HA HA HA.... I believe the first of April was a month ago already. (laughs) Speaking of that... AMY: (raises her voice) Danny! Danny! This isn’t a joke. Jill told me about it ... DANNY: (angry) So everyone knows about the abortion but me?! WAITER: (bringing a tray of plates over) Here are your orders! ....whoops! (DANNY stands up and bumps in the WAITER causing him to spill the plates onto the floor) (DANNY keeps on running out of the restaurant) AMY: Augh ... (trying to get through the mess) Danny ... wait! EXT. STREET - AFTERNOON (cut to scene with DANNY running towards NANCY'S work place) INT. BAR - AFTERNOON

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(in the bar you see NANCY behind the counter and Cynthia sitting on a bar stool to her left) (DANNY calmly walks in) NANCY: (surprised face) Danny?! What are you doing here? (nervously) ... I thought you were coming home this weekend? DANNY: (walks in closer) Not happy to see me? CYNTHIA: Hey Danny! Welcome back! (Danny glares at Cynthia) NANCY: Of course I'm happy to see you, but my shift isn't over yet. There isn't enough help today. I have so much to tell you. Have you seen the news lately? The... DANNY: (deep voice) Why? ... Why did you do it? NANCY: (with back turned towards DANNY) Heh, what are you talking about? If this is about the ... DANNY: (turns NANCY around) the baby! Why didn't you tell me? I should of been a part of this decision! The baby was my child too. We've been together since high school. Didn't that mean anything to you? I had to hear this from Amy who heard this from her sister. I was the last one to know. This should not have been news to me, if they hadn't told me; I'm starting to think I would have been left in the dark forever. (A crowd is forming around the bar area) NANCY: (crying) No! No! I was thinking of telling you, but I was scared. I didn't know how you would react. Didn't you say you have a duty to fulfill? (points to DANNY) It's you who said that a family life isn't fitting for you. (starts rambling) And don't you know, being a mother at my age... it isn't easy. With you being gone most of the time, I feel really insecure. I thought I was going insane without you by my side. I even thought about breaking up with you, moving out of this place, and raising my own child. (breaking down) but I couldn't. I couldn't do it. (CYNTHIA walks in and embraces Nancy)

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CYNTHIA: (glares back at DANNY) Stop this Danny! Even I didn't know anything about this. Don't blame everything on her. I bet you would have done the same thing if you were in her place. It was her choice whether to keep the baby or not. DANNY: Listen this is a lot to take in. (about to turn and leave) NANCY: (calling) Danny! DANNY: Give me some time to take this all in, alright? We will talk. I promise. Just not now. (DANNY turns and walks out of the bar) CUT SCENE EXT. PARK – AFTERNOON (CAMERA zooms on DANNY sitting on a park bench; zooms in closer; a far, Mary is walking a dog coming closer) MARY: (noticing) Danny?! Is that you? (DANNY raises his head) It is you! DANNY: (small smile) Mary, long time no see? How have you been? I though you are working in (thinking) Minnesota. (DANNY and MARY shakes hands) MARY: (stating) Yep, The University of Minnesota Human Rights Resource Center, to be exact. I’m on break. We’re launching a project called the Tandem Project. We’ve been collaborating with other institutes to publish books on the project. We were trying to educate people about the freedom of religion and personal beliefs. DANNY: (understanding) That must be quite a project. You must be beat. I can understand the reason for this project’s existence. Even now, I can still feel the discrimination against religious beliefs. MARY: (agreeing) For shur, we’re also taking this internationally. Now, I forgot, how’s the air force? Any thing I haven’t heard from watching Bob Shieffer?(jokingly)

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DANNY: (signs) Besides the back-breaking training, you’re up to date. MARY: (questioning) When did you get back... and what are you doing out here? (cautiously) Have you seen Nancy? (DANNY sighs and sits back down; MARY joins him after unleashing the dog) (CUT SCENE) (CAMERA zooms out to focus on the dog sniffing around; zooms in on MARY and DANNY) DANNY: (sad) I can understand why she aborted the baby, but I just wish she would have talk to me about it. (MARY pats his shoulder) MARY: (acting like she doesn’t know about the abortion) What were you going to do if you did know about the abortion? You would let her go through with it, right? Personally, I think it was wrong for her to kill the child, religiously it’s not right. Even the Pope is against using the pill. But, as a woman, Danny, (pause) it was (contemplating) understandable. Nancy probably isn’t feeling any better about it than you do. It would have been, was her, child. No mothers want to make that decision. (hand on shoulder) It was wrong of her to not tell, and to not include you in the decision (pause) but she was only thinking of you, and your future. Do you even know how dangerous it is to get an abortion? (DANNY is silently thinking as MARY continues talking) MARY: I know, (looks up) Nancy and I aren’t good friends. (look at DANNY) But I don’t think you should be mad at her. DANNY: (looking hard at the ground) I know now. But I really don’t know how to face her. MARY: (calling for the dog) Come on sprinkles. (looks back over the DANNY) I bet she is at Jill’s apartment crying her eyes out. You two should really talk.

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DANNY: (flinches at the mention of crying; sighs) I still need to get my luggage from Amy’s car. (DANNY gets up; MARY and DANNY begin walking towards to parking lot of the park) CUT SCENE INT. APARTMENT-LATE AFTERNOON (CAMERA zooms in on JILL and AMY in the kitchen preparing for dinner) AMY: (cutting the carrot) They’re about to pass the Arms Export Control Act... JILL: (getting something) Does this have anything to do with Reagan? I have nothing against him, but with the conflict in the Middle East makes me a little iffy. AMY: (nodding) My distrust started when he approved that plan that allowed Israel to ship weapons to Iran. (Loud knocks on the door) JILL: (leaving the kitchen) I’ll get it. (As soon as JILL unlocks the door, NANCY and CYNTHIA storms in) NANCY: (crying) JILL! You promised me! You said you weren’t going to tell anyone! JILL: (aghast) I (fidgeting)... I’m sorry I made a slip to tell Amy. But... she was the only one, the only one I told. CYNTHIA: (cuts in) And she went off to tell Danny. Now it’s a mess. JILL: (shocks) WHAT? ...(yells) AMY! (AMY walking slowly from the kitchen) AMY: (laughs) oh... I forgot to mention about Danny’s return. (straighten) But he had every right to know about the abortion.

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NANCY: (mad) Then I’m the one with the right to tell him, not you! Do you even consider the repercussions of your action? AMY: (yells back) How you feel? What about my feelings throughout high school? The only year I was relieved was when you (point at NANCY) graduated. (At this point, MARY walks in with DANNY) MARY: Whoa, quite a wreck here. Chilled it! Nancy. (looking determined) I think someone wants to talk to you. (turns toward DANNY) (NANCY nervously walks toward DANNY; the two exits the scene) MARY: (join the group) They’re going to be fine. (MARY walks over to AMY) MARY: (whispers) It should end now. (AMY nods; CAMERA zooms out of the door and OPEN zooms on DANNY and NANCY walking) END SCENE SCENE VII VIDEO: INT. HOUSE – AROUND NOON MOMENTARILY ON THE BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN: January 28, 1986 (Screens focus on MARY sitting in her apartment watching television; the phone rings) MARY: (answers the phone) Hello? (pause) Of course! I didn’t know you two were in town. (pause) Okay, ha, certainly. I’ll see you in a little bit (hangs up the phone) CUT TO:

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(MARY is in the kitchen making tea when the doorbell rings. She puts her teapot on the stove and goes to answer the door. When she opens the door, she reveals AMY. She enters) AMY: Hey! Mary (hugs) How have you been? MARY: Amy! It’s so nice seeing you again. I’m doing good. So what brings you to Minneapolis? AMY: Jill and I were attending our cousin’s wedding. It was near Minneapolis, so we decided to drop by. (taking off coat) MARY: Aw, hey Amy, I’ve been great. It seems like I haven’t seen you in a while.(wondering) Where is Jill? AMY: (relieves) Oh she found a mall nearby so she camping in it right now. (They start walking) MARY: Typical Jill, she is such a mall chick (laughs). Please make your self at home. I made tea, if you want some. AMY: Yeah, that’d be great. (AMY sits down on the couch while MARY gets the tea) AMY: Hey, do you mind if I turn on the television? How is your Tandem Project. MARY: Of course not, (noises in the kitchen) The project is going fine. We’re starting on another book soon. Did you read the past one yet? AMY: (feeling sorry) Sorry, I’ve been busy with the cases. But it a relief to know, there is such a project to educate the public. Where else in the world is your group working? MARY: Well, I’m not really one of the professionals, but we are preparing for the first NGO International Conference. (MARY returns and puts the tea tray on the coffee table) AMY: (confuses) The what? (takes the tea cup)

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MARY: Non-government organization, we trying to get more people to comprehend the idea of diversity of religion and tolerance, which is basically what the Tandem Project was founded upon. It’s really emphasizing on core principles and values within and among religions so that people can have the freedom to adhere to the religion by which he or she feels most inspired, or to adhere to no religion at all. It’s a pretty good project and I agree with most of it. I just have a problem with people not following a religion at all, but I guess I can’t always have it my way. (Suddenly, the News startles the two by the BREAKING NEWS banner across the top of the screen) (Both AMY and MARY are in shocked) CUT TO: (A video clip of Challenger disaster)

CUT TO: (A video of President Reagan’s speech)

(CAMERA returns to AMY and MARY shocked faces) MARY: (looks terrified) This is horrible. With all the delays this mission had, you would think they’d make sure it was safe before they... AMY: (not feeling any better) What number mission would this be?

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MARY: I think for the Challenger, it was only the tenth, but oh, this is horrible. That poor teacher was on the flight too. I can’t believe it. AMY: (grieving) Christa McAuliffe, right? She was selected from more than 11,000 applicants from the education profession to go into spaces. She was so young too. I wonder how her family, students, friends and colleagues are taking it. It but be harsh for them. (They turns off the TV, AMY covers her face. The screen goes black for STAGE transition) STAGE: ON SCREEN: CHALLENGER SLIDE

(CYNTHIA and NANCY are sitting on the lower level of the stage, holding white roses) CYNTHIA: This is terrible. Since last years, we’ve watched closely how this whole process was planned out. NANCY: (hand on CYNTHIA’s shoulder) Cynth, I know, this NASA Teacher in Space Project gave so much hope to her to be able to reach out to all her students. Her husband Steve and two children Scott and Caroline must be so distraught. CYNTHIA: (lowers head) and then, there were the other 7 crew members. I cannot accept the fact that... that many people died within a split of a second. (STAGE slowly dims to black) END SCENE SCENE VIII VIDEO:

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INT. INSIDE OF A DINER – LATE AFTERNOON MOMENTARILY ON THE BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN: October 21, 1987 (CYNTHIA, DANNY and NANCY are in a diner chatting.) CYNTHIA: Wow, I'm so stressed out during these times. I don't want to stay home. You guys don't mind I tag along and be the third wheel? DANNY: (looks another direction) Yes, we do... NANCY: (slaps DANNY on the back) It's nothing. We've just haven't chilled out in a while. I'm stressed out too with the business and everything. It's a hard time. I’m getting such a shocked from the Stock Market crash on Monday. I have no idea why am I here dinning. (take a sip of water) This is even bad for the bar business. With the economy in a downturn, less people will come to the bar which means that I don’t get paid as much as I normally do. DANNY: Hmm... true. It’s not only the bar business though. Businesses all over town is starting to collapse (sigh) I’m overwhelmed on my part too, even with the cash flow from the army service, I'm still struggling. NANCY: (argues) Well those business are at fault. They were betting their fortune on the stock market. CYNTHIA: Wow, nice. You argue like an old married couple. (pause) Well, you guys have been going out since high school; are you two going to end up tying the knot anytime soon? NANCY: Well, we don’t know if we’re even ready for marriage yet. But we do know that after last year’s incident, our relationship is in much better shape than ever. We’ve developed a sense of trust between us now. DANNY: Anyway, with me in the service, and Nancy working here in DC; we really want to wait until we’re both settled to get married. CYNTHIA: (nodding) It’s a tough time for all of us. I’ve been so busy with organizing conferences for Gay-rights that it has been depleting me. (pause, looks at Danny) By the way, how was your time in the Air Force.

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DANNY: (Looks up) Eh, it was ok, I went into the school for business and it was totally interesting. Unstable career though. NANCY: I’ll be right back guys. I need to use the bathroom. (NANCY leaves to go to the bathroom) CYNTHIA: (looks up from eating) Business may be unstable but it is an interesting area to study. DANNY: (explaining) Interesting, yes. But for instance, the amount of foreign investors in the stock market has driven the prices skyward. It’s insane. You never know what is going to happen next. CYNTHIA: So you’re thinking about investing? I wouldn’t worry too much. These prices can only last for so long. DANNY: Yea, my one professor back in the Air Force explained it to me. To the general public, when the market is good, everyone relaxes. But what happens is that after a period of good prices, the market goes down, which is exactly what happened. As of now, I’m going to keep my money where it is, just in case. You know what they say, the farther you go up the harder you fall. Take Monday was an example, the crash affected millions. For those who know how to play stock (pause) they should have taken their money out before. This crash made such impact, it’s going to take a year or more for it to climb back up again. (NANCY returns to the table) (CAMERA zoom out as the three continues to converse) END SCENE: TRANSITION TO STAGE: ON SCREEN: STOCK MARKET SLIDE

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(CYNTHIA and JILL are sitting in chairs, JILL is reading the newspaper.) JILL: Oh wow, did you read this? CYNTHIA: The paper? No, I haven’t had a chance to read it yet. JILL: (looking at the newspaper carefully then looks up) They are writing about the crash on Monday. CYNTHIA: AH, the market. Danny, Nancy, and I were talking about it? It’s sad that you couldn’t make it to the dinner. What did the article said? JILL: (start pointing into the newspaper) It’s pretty bad, (pause) I mean, the Dow lost 500 billion dollars. Hong Kong got decked pretty hard by 45 percent. This is pulling everyone down across the globe. CYNTHIA: Damn, before, I was thinking of buying some small stocks, but I guess ... I’m going to save that money for my retirement fund... in cash. (Walks over to JILL) JILL: (laughs) You’re going to need that, now that we are in a recession. CYNTHIA: (walks around) I still can’t believe how it happened. For all I knew, the market was doing fine. Then boom, (making hand movements) there went Aunt Lucy’s summer house. JILL: (thinking) Well, according to AMY of the causes of the crash was that the stock. The problem was that they didn’t the end, the blame lies on the computer through the computer system.

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(rolls eyes), one mass public bought actually own it. In because they traded

CYNTHIA: (lights up) I wonder if James Baker is involved in this. You know, the Secretary of Treasury? He had announced that after a large U.S. trade deficit, that there needed to be a lowering in the dollar value. (AMY suddenly walks in looking exhausted) AMY: (cuts in) Could be. (startles the two) After the fall in the dollar on foreign exchange markets, foreigners began to pull out of dollar-denominated assets. They were probably scared that they were going to lose a fortune since the value of the US dollar was lowered. It really caused a sharp rise in interest rates. (yawns) Hey, Jill, anything to eat? (JILL and CYNTHIA looks at AMY weirdly) END SCENE SCENE IX VIDEO: INT. HOUSE – DAY MOMENTARILY ON BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN: September 21, 1989 (The screen breaks up into four sections. You see JILL, AMY, CYNTHIA and MARY opening up identical envelopes. Reveling wedding invitations. Camera focuses on CYNTHIA. The phone rings.) CYNTHIA: (answers phone) Hello? (pause) Yes! I just opened it. (pause) Of course I’m going to go! I wouldn’t miss it for the world. (pause) Ha, ok, you too. (pause) Good bye. CUT TO: INT. WEDDING RECEPTION - BAR – EVENING MOMENTARILY ON BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN: November 8, 1989 (On screen you see a AMY, MARY, CYNTHIA and JILL sitting at a table chatting) MARY: Aw, I still can’t believe Nancy and Danny are getting married.

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CYNTHIA: (agreeing) Then again, with all the troubles they’ve been through. I think they picked the right time. AMY: (cuts in) Did you see the church they picked? It’s so pretty. JILL: It’s Victorian. CYNTHIA: My fav. (NANCY taps her glass and stands up to give a speech.) NANCY: Hello everyone! I just wanted to let you all know how thankful we are to have you here. We’re so excited to see all our friends (looks at their friends table and glances at AMY; smiles) and family in one place, and we hope you are enjoying yourselves. DANNY: (stands up) We’d also like to make a toast. Thank you for being here to celebrate this wonderful day with us. Thank you for being with us through all this years. (The screen focuses on Danny holding up his glass.) DANNY: Cheers! (The crowd follows) (Screen goes black.) CUT TO: INT. CHURCH – SUNDAY SCHOOL ROOM – LATE AFTERNOON MOMENTARILY ON BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN: November 9, 1989 (Audience sees DANNY putting on his bow tie in front of a mirror. You see his best man and other groomsmen chatting, and getting ready. GROOMSMAN #1 walks in, and turns on the television in the corner of the room. He turns to a news channel.) GROOMSMAN #1: (yells) Hey everyone! Quiet down. (Everyone looks over to the man, and the TV screen. They all stare. On the screen you see a news anchor covering the

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story of the Berlin Wall falling. The room is silent. There are pleasant smiles, of hope, and subtle joy, on the men’s faces. GROOMSMAN #2 walks into the room.)

GROOMSMAN #2: (yells) Hey guys, we’ve got to get going. (The room is still silent; a couple people turn around to look at the clueless man. DANNY smiles. He finishes adjusting his bowtie and grabs his coat and walks out of the room, with a caring grin on his face. The other men file out of the room as well. The TV is still on. The camera focuses on it.) CUT TO: INT. CHURCH – AFTERNOON (DANNY and his groomsmen are lined up at the alter. MUSIC PLAYING: The Wedding March. The doors of the church open, the maids starts walking in line with NANCY following behind down the aisle. As they start to walk down the camera focuses back to DANNY for a few seconds, and then cuts back to NANCY. A few seconds into her walk you cut back to the video of the people at the Berlin Wall, focusing on all the joy and celebration of making two things one. The camera cuts back to NANCY walking down the aisle, and you focus on the smile on her face, as she looks forward. As the maids line up, she joins DANNY at the alter, the pastor starts to speak, and he begins to talk about unity. The camera cuts back to the Berlin Wall.) CUT TO: INT. WEDDING RECEPTION AFTER PARTY - EVENING (People are dancing. Camera pans around to people dancing. Camera focuses briefly on Nancy, Danny, Amy, Jill, Mary and Cynthia. Nancy, Danny and Amy are dancing. Mary, Jill and Cynthia are sitting around a table having a drink. Camera then focuses on an old man who is sitting at a table. He 39

has a drink in his hand and his head is nodding off. He falls asleep. Screen fuzzies out into the counterfactual.)

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