EDGE OF SEVENTEEN
written by Todd Stephens
FINAL SHOOTING SCRIPT
Luna Pictures // 212 255 2564
© 1998
EXT. HIGH SCHOOL - DAY 1
The sky is blue. Birds chirp. The bell rings and a cheer
erupts.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL - DAY 2
Students rocket out of their seats and stampede the door.
TEACHER
Have a good summer, people. (low) Don't
hurry back.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL HALLWAY - DAY 3
ERIC HUNTER, 17, emerges from the crowd. Eric has reddish-
brown hair, a wiry frame and brown eyes. He walks up to
MAGGIE DOERSHLAG, 17. Maggie has a pleasant face and bright
green eyes. Multi-colored plastic berets pull back her wedged
haircut. A SENIOR smirks at them.
SENIOR
Later, rejects.
Maggie rips a Duran Duran picture from the inside of her
locker and stuffs the last of its contents into a shopping
bag.
ERIC
Thank God it's summer.
Maggie slams her locker closed.
EXT. ERIC'S HOUSE -—- MORNING 4
Morning sun shines on a middle class suburban home.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - MORNING 5
A digital alarm buzzes. A shoe hits it.
INT. ERIC'S KITCHEN - MORNING 6
A hand pours a cup of coffee. Another carefully centers a |
Slice of bologna on slices of Wonder Bread. BONNIE, 39, |
stands at the counter spreading ketchup over a bologna
sandwich.
Superimpose Title: "SANDUSKY, OHIO."
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - MORNING 7
Posters and photographs fill the walls -- a huge Annie Lennox
with a clenched fist, Boy George blowing a kiss, "The Roller
Coasters of Crystal Shores," photographs of Eric with his
family, and several of him and Maggie.
ERIC (0O.S.)
(humming Yaz song)
Boop boop bo bo do do do-do-do-bo-do
A giant analog Moog synthesizer dominates the corner. The
name "Annie" has been painted in neon orange above the
keyboard. It looks like it fell out of the back of a truck. A
spaghetti nest of wires connects "Annie" to a four track
recorder and drum machine. Cassette tapes overflow in stacks
near several dusty Little League trophies.
Close-up of hands buttoning a brown plaid uniform shirt.
ERIC (0.S.)
(Singing)
Boop boop bo bo do do do-do-do-bo-do
Close-up of a Crystal Shores employee name tag labeled "Eric"
pinned onto the shirt.
Reveal Eric looking at himself in a full length mirror. Every
stitch of his brown uniform is polyester.
ERIC
Geek.
SUPERIMPOSE TITLE: "1984"
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - MORNING 8
An iron glides back and forth over the pants. Eric, in his
uniform shirt and white Fruit of the Looms, tries to steam
out the crease.
BONNIE (0.S.)
(from downstairs)
Eric. I don't want you late on your
first day!
ERIC
Can't get the crease out of these pants!
INT. ERIC'S KITCHEN - MORNING 9
Bonnie folds up a note and slides it into a brown lunch bag.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED:
ERIC (0.S.)
T look like 1977.
Bonnie looks up at her son. Eric stands in full uniform,
perma-creases and all. He looks both embarrassed and proud at
the same time. Bonnie smiles and shakes her head.
BONNIE
You look nice.
ERIC
Brown plaid. Right.
Bonnie smiles and shakes her head.
BONNIE
It's not so bad.
Eric gives her a look.
BONNIE
Yeah. It's hideous.
Eric nods. She touches the pants crease.
BONNIE
Polyester in that summer heat?
ERIC
Check this out.
He tries to put his hands in his front pockets but they're
sewn shut. Bonnie shakes her head in disbelief.
BONNIE
You've got to be kidding me.
They both laugh. Bonnie backs up a step and surveys him.
BONNIE
Straighten your tag a little.
Eric does it and Bonnie nods. She pulls a camera from her
purse.
BONNIE
Kodak moment.
ERIC
(rolls his eyes)
Mom...
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: (2)
BONNIE
Stand up straight. (fiddles with the
focus) Turn your head a little to the
right.
Eric rolls his eyes but obeys.
ERIC
Just take it!
BONNIE
Okay...
Eric makes a face right before she takes the shot. She
glares. Eric flashes a perfect smile.
A horn honks.
BONNIE
There's your dad.
STEVE, 14, and ANDY, 6, enter. Steve has a John Cougar t-
shirt, Andy, a Kool Aid mustache.
STEVE
Hey -- Johnny Bravo.
Eric looks at Steve smirking.
STEVE
(smirks)
Groovy outfit.
Eric gives the finger and pretends to pick his nose with it.
Andy looks up at his big brother, in awe.
ANDY
You gonna work on a rollercoaster?
ERIC
(musses Andy's hair)
I wish. Gotta be eighteen for rides.
BONNIE
Got everything? I.D., money, keys,
clean underwear. Oh -- Maggie's
sunglasses.
Eric slips on the shades. Bonnie grabs her camera.
BONNIE
I want a good one.
(CONTINUED)
10
CONTINUED:
(3)
Eric smiles sweetly and the camera flashes.
EXT. ERIC'S FRONT YARD / DRIVEWAY - MORNING
Eric pulls off the sunglasses and stares at his dad, RON, 48,
repairing a giant station wagon's antennae with duct tape.
The '78 Buick Electra Estate Wagon is faded brownish-gold
with wood paneling and patches of rust.
RON
Just ran her through the wash for ya.
Eric looks at the car's grease and rust stains.
ERIC
It looks...pretty much the same.
Ron studies the car.
RON
Yeah. (silent beat) Maybe some Turtle
Wax'd jazz it up...
ERIC
Can't polish a turd, Dad. It's junk.
RON
(joking)
This baby?! Heck no. Keep the oil changed
and she'll run another (mischievous
smile) five, ten years. (teasing) Make a
sweet college car for ya.
ERIC
(rolls his eyes)
Please. Forget it.
Ron starts laughing and punches Eric's shoulder playfully.
ERIC
Ouch. (rubs his shoulder) That hurt.
Awkward pause.
RON
I ever tell you about the summer I worked
at Crystal Shores?
ERIC
A few billion times.
(CONTINUED)
10
10
11
CONTINUED : 10
Eric gets in, slams the door and piece of rust falls to the
driveway. He looks up to see his Dad, Mom and Andy in the
passenger window. Bonnie hands him the bagged lunch.
ERIC
You know I am working at a restaurant.
Bonnie gives him a look.
ANDY
Can I come, too?
ERIC
Not this time, kiddo.
Eric starts the car. Bonnie looks at her husband, takes his
hand and squeezes it. They all stare at Eric, silent a
moment.
RON
Don't take any shit from ‘em.
Bonnie swats Ron and shakes her head.
BONNIE
Ronnie.
Ron pinches Bonnie playfully. She looks back at Eric.
BONNIE
Have a great Summer.
INT. ESTATE WAGON - MORNING 11
“Mickey” by Toni Basil blares as the Estate Wagon sails down
Central Ave.
Eric puts the cover back in his cassette case. It's a library
of 80's new wave -- Eurythmics, Tears for Fears, Soft Cell,
etc.
Eric straightens his hair in the rear view mirror and turns
up the volume.
SUPERIMPOSE TITLE: "Edge of Seventeen"
TITLES MONTAGE --
Eric taps the dashboard as he drives by...
11B
11c
11D
11E
EXT. CENTRAL AVE. - MORNING 11A
..a road sign proclaiming "Sandusky, Ohio: Welcome to
Vacationland USA."
EXT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT & NUT - MORNING 11B
...endless motels and fast food joints on Cleveland Road. A
sign for the "Universal Fruit and Nut Co."
EXT. HIGH SCHOOL - MORNING 11C
...Sandusky High School. "Have a great summer" is spelled out
in the windows.
EXT. DRIVE-IN THEATER - MORNING 11D
..."Sixteen Candles" and "Revenge of the Nerds" play at the
Sandusky Drive-in.
EXT. WATERFRONT 11E
...the waterfront. Sailboats dot the bay. Rollercoasters rise
from the trees in the distance.
EXT. MAGGIE'S HOUSE - MORNING (CREDITS CONT'D) 12
Eric pulls up to an All-American home. He honks.
Out comes MAGGIE DOERSHLAG, 18. Maggie is both pretty and
quirky. She wears the women's version of the Crystal Shores
uniform -- a bizarre mini-skirt substituted for the pants.
Embarrassed, she twirls and it flies up.
ERIC
(laughing)
Great scort!
MAGGIE
What?
ERIC
Isn't that what they call it? Half
skirt, half shorts -- scort.
She gets in, grabs the sunglasses from his face, rolls her
eyes, and slaps them on.
MAGGIE
I look like a spaz.
Eric smiles and pulls away.
13
14
EXT. CAUSEWAY BRIDGE - MORNING (CREDITS CONT'D) 13
“Mickey” continues -- Eric rolls down the power windows as
they pass the "Crystal Shores" entrance sign and cruise over
the bay bridge. Wind blows their hair...they laugh and sing
along word-for-word with Toni.
ERIC
This is gonna be so cool!
CUT TO:
INT. GRUB WAGON INN DINING ROOM - DAY 14
Close-up of an indistinguishable food item being slapped onto
a plate with an ice cream scoop.
SUPERIMPOSE FINAL CREDIT - SEQUENCE ENDS
The supervisor, ANGIE, 27, leads an orientation. She has
spiked hair and playful eyes.
ANGIE
(butch deadpan voice)
Very important to comprehend the rib
policy. A dinner slab contains five
bones, a lunch slab four, kiddie slab
two. Park guests often request additional
ribbage, which we are proud to offer at
$1.10 per bone. That's per bone, thank-
you. Not to be confused with the rib-
chicken combo platter, which contains a
quarter chick and three bone slab. Any
questions?
Eric and Maggie stare with glazed eyes from behind the steam
counter of the Grub Wagon Inn. It's a cheesy Old West-themed
cafeteria restaurant. A wagon wheel and buffalo skull hang
behind them.
ANGIE
Thank you.
Six other workers also stare blankly, including a husky guy
with a bad perm, a blonde girl who's pretty except for her
taped-together glasses and a tall kid who looks like a future
undertaker. A very motley crew. Most are college age.
ANGIE
O.K., ah (reads tag) Eric. You be the
customer. "Welcome to the Grub Wagon Inn,
Sir. What can I get for you, today?"
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED:
ERIC
Ah...the rib dinner.
ANGIE
Remember -- always upsell. "Could I
suggest a delicious ear of fresh corn
on the cob with that, today?"
ERIC
Oh, no thanks. Corn gives me hives.
Angie looks at Eric and stifles a smile as she assembles the
meal. She places it on the counter.
ANGIE
Isn't that attractive. A word of warning.
I've noticed some employees, both male
and female, have the tendency to rub up
against the counter that, as you will
note, conveniently comes up to crotch
level. (demonstrates, moaning) Mmmm,
roramm .
Angie looks at Eric as she demonstrates. The group looks on,
shocked. Short and stocky FRIEDA, 21, swallows her gum.
ANGIE
If you have an inclination toward this
filthy habit, please...be discreet.
(moves her hips) Mmmm, ahhh. Always
remember to serve the meal with pride.
(hands it to Eric) "There you are, Sir.
Just thought you should know...I just
came. Thank you."
Silence. Maggie stifles a laugh.
ANGIE
Laughter is not permitted on company
time. (reads tag) Maggie, lovey -- is
Eric your boyfriend?
Maggie and Eric look at each other and smile.
MAGGIE
(shy)
Ah...no. Best friend.
ANGIE
Convenient. He appears to be in
violation of Crystal Shores dress code.
(CONTINUED)
15
15A
15B
15C
15D
16
10.
CONTINUED: (2)
Angie points to Eric's zipper -- his fly is open. Everyone
cracks up. Eric blushes and laughs along with them. Angie
glances at her Swatch (complete with rubber face-guard).
ANGIE
Listen up. It's no cake walk here. We
don't have the status of a rides job, the
glamour of live shows. We're food service
-- the lowest job in this park above
toilets. We're gonna have the
motherfucking summer of our lives! We're
Grubbers now. Love of God -- fire up!!
CRYSTAL SHORES MONTAGE:
EXT. CRYSTAL SHORES MAIN GATE - DAY 15
A buzzer sounds. The main gate opens and a swarm of insane
customers stampedes the midway.
EXT. CRYSTAL SHORES ROLLER COASTER - DAY 15A
Riders scream as the Red Streak rollercoaster hurtles down
the first hill.
EXT. CRYSTAL SHORES MIDWAY - DAY 15B
A mother cleans cotton candy off the face of her baby
daughter with her own spit.
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN - DAY 15¢c
Grease sizzles as Frieda pours tater-tots into the deep
fryer. Some spill on the floor. Frieda looks around, picks
them up, blows the fuzz off, and throws them in the vat.
INT. GRUB WAGON INN DINING ROOM - DAY 15D
A long line stretches out of the Grub Wagon. Angie commands
the crew as every sweat-covered worker moves at top speed.
ANGIE
Love of God! Deal with it!
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN - DAY 16
Maggie and Eric frantically wash a mountain of dirty dishes.
An alarm beeps and a red light flashes.
MAGGLE
Aahh, what did we do?
(CONTINUED)
16
17
CONTINUED: 16
ERIC
Shit!
MAGGIE
Wait, I think it's out of soap. Here!
Maggie tries to refill the dishwasher but covers herself and
Eric with soap. Finally the alarm shuts off and the machine
kicks back on, filling the room with clouds of steam. Eric
slips on the soap, accidentally spraying Maggie with the
water hose.
MAGGIE
Hey! -- no fair!!
She wrestles the hose away and squirts him right in the face.
They both laugh hysterically. Angie bursts in.
ANGIE
Frieda -- drop two steaks, one tot.
Maggie -- got a vomit-type situation
in the dining room. No problem! (claps to
rally the troops) Fire up, Grubbers!
Maggie leaves and Eric goes back to work. He hears the punch
of the time clock as the dishwasher starts belching suds.
ERIC
Someone...help!
Eric sees a figure approaching through the mist. His mouth
drops when he sees ROD, 21. Rod is tall, has white-blond hair
and blue eyes. Gorgeous.
ROD
Hi, I'm Rod. Need some help?
Eric glances down shyly. Some water from his hose drips onto
his shoe. The steam thickens.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. GRUB WAGON INN DINING ROOM - DAY 17
Steam dissipates.
CUSTOMER (0O.S.)
Gimme that chicken-rib platter thing.
Eric is behind the serving counter staring at Rod, who is
bussing tables out in the dining room.
(CONTINUED)
17
18
CONTINUED: 17
CUSTOMER (O.S.)
Hello. Can I get some service here?
Maggie elbows Eric's side. The CUSTOMER in front of him (a
guy in a Krokus t-shirt) comes into focus. Eric is flustered.
ERIC
I'm sorry sir, a chicken rib combo --
coming right up. O.K., let's see,
ah...(reads menu behind him) quarter
chicken...beans...logs...
Eric notices his mom, dad and brothers standing in line,
smiling at him. His mom waves as he dishes up the meal and
places it on the counter.
CUSTOMER
That's all the ribs I get? Where's
the fuckin' beef, dude?
Rod coughs "asshole" from the dining room. Eric looks up and
Rod winks at him.
ERIC
(flustered)
Sir, extra ribs are...ah (reads menu)
.ah...extra slab...$1.10 per bone.
CUSTOMER
$1.10 per bone? (loud) Fuck that!
The customer slams his tray on the counter -- the chick-rib
combo goes airborne and lands on Eric's shirt.
CUSTOMER
(storming away)
Help around here got their thumbs up
their shitholes!!
Eric is stunned. He looks at his family -- his mom covering
her mouth in horror -- Steve laughing -- and out to the
dining room -- where Rod smiles sweetly at him. Eric shakes
his head, shrugs his shoulders, and smiles back.
EXT. CRYSTAL SHORES EMPLOYEE BREAK AREA - DAY
Eric unwraps his bologna sandwich. He sits alone listening to
his Walkman at one of the "Employee Feeding Center" picnic
tables. Eric notices Rod ordering at the counter, dips the
napkin into his Sprite and tries to work the BBO stain out of
his shirt.
(CONTINUED)
18
18
CONTINUED:
ERIC
(under his breath)
Over here. Sit with me.
Rod gets his food and sees Eric. He approaches.
ERIC
(Low)
Yes.
Eric takes off his headphones. Rod sits across from
smiles at the stain.
ROD
(imitating customer)
"Where's the fuckin beef, dude?"
ERIC
(nods, smiles)
That had to happen in front my Mom and
Dad.
Eric unwraps two cupcakes.
ERIC
Want one?
ROD
Sure. (takes cupcake) Your Mom make that?
Eric nods, embarrassed.
ROD
How old are you?
ERIC
Seventeen.
ROD
Seventeen, damn -- high school.
ERIC
Yeah, one more year of hell. Angie said
you go to Ohio State.
ROD
Hotel management. (sarcastic) So
rewarding.
ERIC
Maggie and I'll probably go there.
We wanna study music.
18
him and
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED:
"Touch"
(2) 18
ROD
At OSU?
ERIC
My dream is to go to New York.
But...megga bucks.
Rod picks up the tape Eric was listening to -- Eurythmics'
and looks at the masked Annie.
ERIC
Music is like my favorite thing in the
world.
ROD
Cool. You play an instrument?
ERIC
Keyboards. A little piano.
ROD
(playful teasing)
Oooo -- piano lessons.
Eric smiles and shakes his head "no."
ERIC
My mom taught me. (pause) I wanna be
a writer/producer. Kinda like Dave
Stewart.
Rod smiles and studies the tape -- Eric gets more confident.
ERIC
Here's my ultimate fantasy, O.K.? I
actually dreamt this the other night, so
don't think I'm crazy. I move to New York
City and just happen to bump into Boy
George having tea with Annie Lennox in
this outdoor cafe. We get to talking...I
come up with the idea of them doing a
duet. Of course they hire me to produce,
and the next thing you know we're in the
studio. Everything's set up -- they
open their mouths to sing...and
(smiles)...that's when I woke up.
Rod smiles.
ROD
Annie Lennox is a freak.
(CONTINUED)
18
CONTINUED: (3)
ERIC
You don't like her?
ROD
T'm more into Madonna.
Eric chuckles and shakes his head.
ERIC
Madonna? !
Rod smiles. Maggie enters the break area and waves. Rod waves
back. Eric discovers the note in his lunch bag and opens it.
It reads, "Don't work too hard. Love, Mom." He folds it shut
before Rod sees.
ROD
(looking at Maggie)
She seems cool. She your girlfriend?
ERIC
Uhh, ahh, not really. I don't know.
ROD
Cute.
ERIC
Yeah. (pause) You have a girlfriend?
Rod smiles.
ROD
Yeah. His name's Danny.
Eric gulps.
ROD
Actually we just kinda broke up.
Maggie appears and sits down. Flustered, Eric scoops up his
lunch and tips over the Sprite can.
ERIC
(walking away)
Whoops...I gotta...my break's over.
MAGGIE
(to Rod)
Do I smell or something?
Rod smiles at Maggie, shrugs, and watches Eric walk away.
18
16.
19 INT. ERIC'S BATHROOM - DAY 19
Close-up on Eric's drum machine -- a red light flashing -- a
rhythmic beat. Reveal Eric and Maggie sitting on the edge of
the tub playing their instruments. Eric plays "Annie's" keys
and works her gurgley drone. Maggie moves the bow back and
| forth across her cello. Sound vibrates in the tiny room as
the four track records the session. The song is upbeat and
catchy. It sounds quite nice.
"Annie" starts making a funny noise. Eric stops playing --
smoke starts coming out of her.
ERIC
Shit! My dad said he fixed it!
Eric gets down and fiddles with the connection -- the smoke
increases. Maggie gets up, gives Annie a love tap, and the
smoke disappears.
CUT TO:
20 INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - EVENING 20
© Eric pops a cassette into his four track and presses play.
The previous recording session plays. He moves his head to
the beat as he adjusts knobs and faders. A knock at the
window -- Eric looks up and smiles. Maggie, in her uniform,
slips through the window and onto his bed.
MAGGIE
(sees four-track)
It turn out?
ERIC
I haven't mixed it. (smiles) You'll have
to wait.
MAGGIE
Tease.
She stares at the wall.
MAGGIE
What's different?
She studies the wall and sees a poster of New York City.
MAGGIE
@ That's cool. Spencers?
Eric nods. Maggie ponders the poster.
(CONTINUED)
20
17.
CONTINUED: 20
MAGGIE
(half-joking)
You're not planning on abandoning me at
Ohio State.
Eric smiles. Maggie unrolls a discarded "Ohio State Buckeyes"
poster and looks up at a faded Debbie Harry.
MAGGIE
You should've taken Debbie down. She's
been up since you were twelve.
ERIC
Debbie...rocks. Forever.
MAGGIE
You do know you're ill.
Maggie opens Eric's drawer, grabs one of his t-shirts anda
pair of jeans. She changes from her uniform into his clothes
right in front of him.
MAGGIE
It was so busy tonight, me and Rod had
to close the dining room all by
ourselves. Damn these uniforms stink. Rod
makes me laugh. College people are so
much cooler. Compared to the rejects
around here. (pause) Oh my God...guess
what Frieda told me. She overheard Rod
and Angie talking in the walk-in. (pause)
Rod is gay.
Eric fiddles with something and stares at "Annie."
MAGGIE
And you know how Angie supposedly has
this boyfriend John or something? Frieda
said John is really...Jo Ann. (pause) I
was like... do they assign all the gay
people to the Grub Wagon or something?
Eric is silent.
MAGGIE
Hello?
Eric nods. She studies him for a moment.
MAGGIE
What's up?
(CONTINUED)
20
21
21A
21B
21C
CONTINUED: (2)
ERIC
I don't know. (pause) I hate how my hair
looks.
MAGGIE
What?!
She jumps on him and tickles his stomach.
MAGGIE
Your hair? Your hair?!
He laughs as she tickles him harder. She stops and he looks
up at her.
ERIC
Magg, if I ask you something...promise
not to think I'm retarded?
She listens.
ERIC
Do you think...do think I'm cute?
She smiles. A long silence. Eric closes his eyes and moves
toward her lips. They kiss, lightly at first but then with
tongue. He pulls away. She smiles, turns away and covers her
face.
MAGGIE
Wooo. (nervous laugh) What was that?
Eric smiles, his face red. Awkward silence.
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN (SUMMER MONTAGE)
Card punched by the timeclock.
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN
Baked beans scooped on a plate.
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN
OMIT
INT. GRUB WAGON INN DINING ROOM
Eric picks a dead fly out of a cup of coleslaw, looks around,
and puts it back on the serving line.
21
21A
21B
21C
21E
21F
21G
22
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN
Card punched by the timeclock.
INT. ERIC'S BATHROOM
Maggie plays her cello in the bathtub. Eric holds up a
microphone and presses record.
MAGGIE
I totally screwed that up.
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN
Card punched by the timeclock.
INT. GRUB WAGON INN DINING ROOM
A line of customers out the door. Eric stands behind the
serving counter, assembling a meal with lightning speed.
ERIC
(robotic smoothness)
Matam, the chicken-rib combo dinner comes
with a quarter chicken, three bone slab,
BBQ baked and Idaho tater logs. And could
I suggest an ear of corn on the side,
today?
Eric serves the meal with a smile. Angie, gives him a high
five.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM
Eric and Maggie record. Eric's fingers on the keyboard.
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN
Eric stares at Rod washing dishes. Rod catches him looking
and smiles. Eric turns away. Angie bursts in.
ROD
(to Angie)
Where's the fuckin' beef, dude?
Angie sets down her pie try. Eric's eyes are glued to her.
ANGIE
(grabs her crotch)
Got that beef right over here for ya.
Right under my fuckin' scort-age, thank
you.
(MORE)
21D
21E
21F
21G
21H
22
(CONTINUED)
22
23
23A
23B
24
CONTINUED: 22
ANGIE (cont'd)
Twenty-five inch pencil dick for the love
of God.
Eric, Maggie and Rod crack up. Eric grabs a half-eaten
chicken leg and unzips his pants.
ERIC
I'm hung like a fuckin' farm animal,
thank you.
Angie looks over and sees the chicken part dangling from
Eric's crotch. Rod raises an eyebrow. Angie doubles over,
hysterical.
ANGIE
Fuck!!!
They all crack up. Angie pats Eric's shoulder and nods
approvingly. Eric smiles.
ANGIE
Lovey! !
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM 23
OMTT
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN 23A
Rod puts his name on the "Crystal Shores Intramural
Volleyball League -- Grub Wagon Inn vs. Rides" sign-up sheet.
Eric waits till he's gone and signs his name.
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN 23B
Angie rips the June page off the calendar, crumples it,
shoots for the garbage can across the room...and misses.
ANGIE
Love of God?!
EXT. CRYSTAL SHORES BEACH - DAY 24
A volleyball whizzes across the sky. It gets tipped back
across the net before a RIDES GIRL spikes it into the sand at
Maggie's feet. Eric and Grubbers shake their heads.
RIDES GIRL (0.S.)
(with contempt)
Geeks.
The other team snickers. “Rides Rule” is silk-screened on
their matching collegiate sweatshirts which are pulled over
collar-upturned Izods.
(CONTINUED)
Be ee
24
CONTINUED: 24
They flash their sorority girl/frat boy smiles as they high-
five each other. Every one of them is blonde, blue-eyed, and
perfect.
The Grubbers stand dejected in their mismatched street
clothes. Angie pulls her team into a huddle.
FRIEDA
She’s too good!
ANGIE
Damn it, Frieda! Suzy Co-ed can fucking
eat me, alright! Show ‘em what Grubbers
are made of. One, two, three...
CHUCKERS
(unison)
Fire up!
The huddle breaks and they take their places. Rod purposely
switches places with Maggie so he can stand in front of Eric.
Angie notices and raises an eyebrow. Black rubber “Madonna”
bracelets dangle from Rod's wrists, tight “O.P.” shorts show
off his sexy ass. He looks back at Eric and flashes a smile.
ROD
Back me up. Cool?
Eric, nods, blushing. Angie watches Eric, smiling to herself.
ANGIE
(very low)
Uh huh.
Eric is fixated on Rod’s butt as a RIDES JOCK slaps a serve
and the ball careens right off his head. Eric falls to the
sand, dazed and laughing.
ANGIE
(laughing)
Eye on the ball, Lovey. (low) So to
speak.
They rotate. Once again, Rod switches places to be near Eric.
Another RIDES GUY sets up to serve. Angie blurts out just as
he makes contact --
ANGIE
Pussyfart!!
He flubs the serve -- it weakly clears the net -- Angie
pounces. She unleashes a wicked spike -- the ball rockets
across, explodes off the Jock’s forehead, knocks him on his
ass, ricochets back across the net and sails toward the lake.
(CONTINUED)
aE = a. ae ae, |
24
25
26
CONTINUED: (2) 24
Eric and Rod make a run for it. They lose the ball, collide,
and fall on top of each other in the surf.
ROD
You alright?
ERIC
(shy smile)
Mmm ‘mm.
A wave crashes over them.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - EVENING 25
Hair clippers buzz as Maggie guides them along the back of
Eric's head. Brown clumps of hair fall to the floor. Eric
smiles as he watches the transformation in the mirror.
MAGGIE
Your mom is gonna kill me.
INT. ERIC'S LIVING ROOM - EVENING 26
Bonnie sits on the couch. She speaks to Eric in the next room
but can't see him.
ERIC (0.S.)
You ready?
BONNIE
Just tell me it's not a mohawk.
ERIC (0.S.)
C'mon. (pause) Promise not to scream.
BONNIE
(shakes her head)
Why do you do this to me?
ERIC (0.S.)
Alright...
Eric walks into the living room. His previous Ohio "normal"
hairdo is now much shorter and spiked. He is smiling.
BONNIE
Oh.
She surveys the new 'do.
BONNIE
Hmmm .
She squints her eyes.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED:
BONNIE
Mmmm hmmm. |
Eric holds his breath.
BONNIE
I kind of like it.
ERIC
Really?
BONNIE
I told you your hair looked nicer
Short. Shows off your eyes.
Maggie sheepishly enters the room holding the clippers.
MAGGIE
(to Bonnie)
You don't hate me?
BONNIE
I actually like it.
MAGGIE
Wow. Thanks.
MAGGIE
Kinda...different, huh?
BONNIE
A little strange. (turns to Maggie)
But so am I.
Maggie smiles.
MAGGIE
I was so nervous my hand was shaking.
BONNIE
Is that why it's all crooked in back?
Eric turns, panicked.
ERIC
What?!
Bonnie smiles and shakes her head.
BONNIE
© Joking.
2/7
28
24.
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN - DAY
Angie rips the July page off the calendar, crumples it,
shoots for the garbage can across the room...and misses.
ANGIE
What the fuck?!
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN - DAY
Rod lops off a chicken's neckbone with a cleaver. Frieda
folds back the wings while Maggie digs out the guts.
MAGGIE
(imitating Angie)
Can't believe I've spent the entire
summer with my finger up a chicken's
asshole, thank you.
They laugh.
ROD
I've actually enjoyed it. (pause) Must
be second nature.
Frieda and Maggie look at each other. Frieda rolls her eyes
and Maggie laughs. Angie bursts in from the dining room.
ANGIE
Drop two baskets of tots, one cunt-fried
steak (double take) -- fuck!
Everyone turns to Eric, who has just entered.
ANGIE
Coolness!!
Eric smiles shyly as they stare at his hair. Maggie gazes at
him with a love twinkle in her eyes. So does Rod.
Angie touches Eric's hair reverently.
ANGIE
My little Lovey's gettin' so handsome.
ERIC
Thanks. Magg cut it.
FRIEDA
You look like Sid what’s-his-name.
Rod carries a pan of chicken past Eric and brushes his butt
on the way past.
(CONTINUED)
28
29
CONTINUED: 28
ROD
Give me a hand?
Angie watches Rod disappear into the walk-in -- Eric follows.
INT. GRUB WAGON WALK-IN COOLER - DAY 29
The cooler is filled with pies and dimly lit. Their breath
becomes steam.
ROD
Pie break.
Rod grabs a piece of Boston cream and shoves half of it in
his mouth.
ERIC
Rod! Shit -- they could fire you!
ROD
Fuck ‘em. Summer's almost over.
He shoves the other half in Eric's mouth.
ROD
Can't forget the whip cream.
He picks up a canister and does a whip-it. Eric does another.
ROD
(helium voice)
Where's the fuckin' beef?
They both crack-up. Rod sprays some into Eric's mouth. Eric
grabs the can and sprays Rod's crotch.
They stop laughing and stare at each other. Rod looks down,
and smiles shyly.
ROD
I love your hair.
Rod looks back up. Eric smiles. Rod Slowly takes Eric's hand
and puts it against his face -- Eric shudders at the touch.
ERIC
I...don't know how to do this.
Rod pulls Eric close.
ROD
(whisper)
I'll teach you.
(CONTINUED)
29
29A
CONTINUED: 29
The door opens. They separate just as Maggie pops her head
in. She sees the half-eaten pie and smiles. Eric's face is
red. Rod sprays her with whip cream.
INT. KOUNTRY KITCHEN - NIGHT 29A
A WAITRESS sets a multi-colored Reeses Pieces sundae down in
front of Eric and Maggie, who sit across from each other ina
booth. The place is a typical Midwestern greasy spoon with a
country spin. "Kountry Kitchen" menus stand behind ketchup
and mustard bottles.
MAGGIE
We were cleaning the chicken oven and
Angie starts going around asking everyone
about their first time.
ERIC
Having sex?
MAGGIE
(smiles)
What else does she talk about?
Eric smiles.
MAGGIE
Frieda was totally freaked, she ran off
and hid in the walk-in. So Angie turns to
me and says, in front of everyone...
"Lovey, how's the cherry situation?"
(beat) I know I turned red.
ERIC
What'd you say?
Maggie pauses.
MAGGIE
You're gonna be so mad.
ERIC
What?
Magg can't get it out. She gives Eric a look.
ERIC
You told them we did it?
Maggie nods, embarrassed. Eric's mouth drops.
(CONTINUED)
i ae ee
27.
29A CONTINUED: 29A
MAGGIE
(Low)
What was I supposed to say? "We're sexual
rejects, everybody. Total virgin city."
Maggie looks up at Eric and they both take an awkward bite of
ice cream.
MAGGIE
Don't hate me.
|
|
ERIC
| (smiles)
Please.
| Maggie loosens up.
: MAGGIE
) You should've seen Rod's face... his
mouth almost hit the floor.
| Eric looks up at her.
) MAGGIE
| © Thought maybe he was jealous.
]
| Silence.
)
) ERIC
| What?
|
| Maggie takes a bite of ice cream.
MAGGIE
I think he likes you.
Eric stops in mid-chew.
ERIC
God, no he doesn't. (pause) Where’d you
get that?
Maggie takes another bite, smiling.
ERIC
Did he say something? Did he?!
Eric grabs her knee under the table. Maggie yelps and shakes
her head "no."
© MAGGIE
I can just tell.
(CONTINUED)
a
EE a ee ee SS ee ee
29A
30
31
32
CONTINUED: (2) 29A
Eric is flushed red.
ERIC
I'm so sure.
Eric takes the maraschino cherry and sticks it in her mouth.
She laughs and he grabs her hand. Eric gives her a serious
look and runs his thumb lightly against her wrist. She looks
up and notices an OLD COUPLE smiling from the next booth.
Eric and Magg smile back.
INT. RECORD STORE - DAY 30
Eric flips through the 'B' section of albums -- Bananarama...
Blondie...Bowie...and freezes at Bronski Beat's "Age of
Consent." A pink triangle fills the album cover. His eyes
dart nervously around the store.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - EVENING 31
Eric inserts the headphone jack in his stereo and pulls the
cellophane off the Bronski album. He lowers the needle. Jimmy
Sommerville's falsetto fills his ears..."Why."
Contempt in your eyes
When I turn to kiss his lips
Eric analyzes the sleeve as he listens. There's a chart
listing the ages of consent in all major countries, a number
for the National Gay Task force, another pink triangle. Eric
looks up and jumps. His mom, holding an armful of underwear,
smiles at him. .
BONNIE
Scare ya? (pause) Sorry.
Eric covers the album as Bonnie puts the laundry away and
leaves. Eric exhales, shakes his head, and rips the needle
off the record.
INT. RECORD STORE - EVENING 32
Eric slaps "The Age of Consent" down on the counter.
ERIC
I'd like to return this.
The CLERK, a Peter Frampton look-a-like, looks at the opened
album.
CLERK
Does it skip?
(CONTINUED)
32
33
34
CONTINUED: 32
ERIC
No.
CLERK
What's wrong with it?
ERIC
It's gay. The lyrics. I don't want it.
CLERK
I'm sorry, Sir, but you already opened
it. Store policy is unless it's
defective...
Eric grabs the album and stuffs it back in the bag.
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN - DAY 33
Angie rips the August page off the calendar, crumples it,
rubs it against her left tit for luck, shoots for the garbage
can across the room...and makes a perfect swish. She pumps
her fist.
ANGIE
Fire up!
EXT. BEACH - SUNSET
Empty bottles of Boonesfarm Tickle Pink and Genny Cream Ale
are littered around a blazing bonfire. The sky is a fire-
orange. Eric lies against a rock away from the rest of the
group. He takes a swig of wine and looks sad.
ANGIE (0O.S.)
(inebriated)
Summer's over, Grubbers. Fucking deal
with it.
Rod walks over and stands above Eric.
ROD
Hey little boy. We miss you.
Rod pulls him up and they join the rest of the group. Frieda
1s passed out on a beach towel. Maggie takes a picture of
her.
MAGGIE
Frieda's toast!
Eric smiles. He picks up a dirty sock and puts it in Frieda's
hand. Maggie takes another picture. Rod finds an empty
Riunite bottle and puts it in her other hand.
(CONTINUED)
34
34
CONTINUED: 34
Eric sets a Reebock on her head. Maggie snaps another photo.
She hugs Rod, both of them cracking up.
ERIC
Here! |
Eric pulls a Stayfree maxi-pad from Frieda's purse.
ANGIE
Convenient !
Angie grabs it, pulls out a red lipstick, dabs some on the
maxi and nestles it near Frieda's crotch.
ANGIE
Jesus Christ, Frieda. How 'bout a little
personal hygiene.
Maggie takes another picture, barely able to hold the camera.
Angie rolls around in the sand, laughing so hard she's
crying. Eric, Maggie and Rod fall onto her.
ANGIE
Stop! Please! I can't fucking deal!!
DISSOLVE TO:
EAT. BEACH - NIGHT 35
Embers glow in the campfire. The sun is gone. Eric, Rod, and
Maggie dance to the boombox, all three of them trashed.
Maggie loses her balance and falls on an inner tube, pulling
Rod along with her. She wraps her arms around him as Eric
continues to dance, alone. Rod's eyes are glued to his every
move. He dances up to Maggie seductively, turns, and looks
right into Rod's eyes.
Maggie pulls Eric onto her lap. They stare at each other with
glassy eyes. She giggles at his half-smile. She leans
forward, closes her eyes and kisses him.
Rod rubs Eric's leg. Eric looks back at him. Rod's eyes are
closed, he smiles a shit-eating grin. Eric goes back to
kissing Maggie even more intensely as Rod feels him up. The
camera flashes. They look up at Frieda, waving the maxi-pad.
FRIEDA
(slur)
You guys!
Maggie stumbles up and sees Eric's zipper is undone.
(CONTINUED)
35
36
31. |
CONTINUED: 35
MAGGIE
(smiles/points)
Hey. How did that happen? I do that?
Frieda laughs.
FRIEDA
He always has...zipper trouble.
Maggie laughs, starts walking and gets woozy.
MAGGIE
Frieda, I feel sick...
Frieda steadies her and leads her away. Rod turns to Eric and
brushes his face. Eric smiles and closes his eyes. Rod looks
down -- Eric is brushing his foot against Rod's leg. Rod
loses his breath.
ROD
Mmmmm... (pause) Naughty boy.
Eric opens his eyes and gives Rod a puppy dog look.
ROD
(drunk laugh)
Making me so hard.
Eric closes his eyes and slides the tips of his fingers under
the cuff of Rod's shorts. Rod shutters.
ERIC
(soft)
I think you're beautiful.
Maggie walks back over -- Eric jerks away.
MAGGIE
Eric. (wipes her mouth) Can we go home?
They look at up her. She doubles over and blows chunks in the
sand. Eric covers his face.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - NIGHT 36
Eric uncovers his face. He lies on the floor, wide awake. The
room is dark, Maggie is passed out on his bed. Eric puts his
headphones on and presses play on the four-track.
Eric looks up to make sure Maggie is asleep. He closes his
eyes and slides his hand down into his sleeping bag.
38
39
INT. GRUB WAGON INN DINING ROOM - EVENING 37
Dirty water squeezed into a mop bucket. Eric mops the empty
dining room, all the chairs propped up on the tables.
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN - EVENING 38
Angie, Maggie and the rest of the crew watch as Rod inserts
his timecard into the clock.
ANGIE
On behalf of everyone here at Crystal
Shores Family Amusements Incorporated,
T'd like to thank you for three loyal
months of service. As a parting gift I'd
like to present you with a Crystal Shores
souvenir mug and complimentary oil and
vinegar douche. Thank you.
She hands him the mug and douche. Rod laughs.
ROD
Tt's been real.
He punches out and everyone applauds. Maggie hugs him.
INT. GRUB WAGON INN DINING ROOM - EVENING 39
Eric continues to swab the floor. His mop hits a pair of BBQ-
Stained Nikes. He looks up at Rod.
ROD
Hey little boy.
ERIC
(smiles)
Hi.
Rod smiles, bouncing nervously on his feet.
ERIC
You leaving?
Rod nods. Pause.
ROD
(shy)
I was thinking...wanna get out of here?
Say good-bye?
Eric lights up. Rod smiles. Eric drops the mop and rips off
his apron. They pass Angie on the way out the door.
(CONTINUED)
39
39A
CONTINUED: 39
ANGIE
Eric, you're still on the clock. Get
back here!
Eric and Rod look back, smile, and disappear.
ANGIE
(softly to herself)
About fucking time.
INT. ROD'S CAR / EXT. ICE CREAM STAND - NIGHT 39A
Rod pulls into a parking slot and turns to Eric in the
passenger seat. Neon light shines into the car which is
packed with Rod's belongings.
ERIC
We used to come here after Little League.
They’ve got the best curly fries.
Rod smiles and opens his door. Eric follows but Rod stops
him.
ROD
C'mon, my treat. This is a proper date.
ERIC
(smiles)
Thanks.
Rod gets out. Eric takes a deep breath. He gazes out the
windshield for a moment, then flips his visor down. He licks
his fingers, straightens his hair and his Grubwagon collar. A
grocery bag at his feet catches his eye.
Eric reaches in and pulls out a baby blue polo shirt. He
presses it against his nose, inhales, and closes his eyes.
Eric rubs the shirt against his cheek and puts it back.
He gives a quick glance out the windshield and pulls a bottle
of Polo cologne from the bag. Eric unscrews it and lets the
scent fill him. He dabs some on his finger...slowly brushes
it against his neck, then reaches into his shirt and spreads
some across his chest.
Eric puts the bottle back and looks in the mirror in nervous
anticipation.
The door opens -- Rod appears with hot dogs and curly fries.
ROD
Dinner time.
(CONTINUED)
39A
CONTINUED:
Rod sniffs the air. He looks at Eric.
ROD
Is that my cologne?
ERIC
(busted)
I just...smelled it. Sorry.
Rod leans close and smells Eric's neck.
ROD
Tt's nice on you.
Eric gives a coy smile. Rod smiles back. They stare at each
other.
ROD
I'm gonna miss you.
Eric glows.
ERIC
You are?
Rod nods.
ERIC
Who knows...maybe I'll end up at Ohio
State.
ROD
You're gonna make me wait that long?
Silent pause.
ERIC
What do you want to do?
ROD
See you naked.
Eric shivers as Rod puts his hand on his leg. Eric glances
out the window nervously.
ROD
Let's go somewhere nice.
Eric nods. Rod backs up and drives away.
EXT. MOTEL - NIGHT
Motel sign.
39A
40
35.
EXT. MOTEL CABIN - NIGHT
Eric and Rod giggle as they key in.
INT. MOTEL CABIN - NIGHT
They face each other, smiling at their uniforms. The room is
standard-issue circa 1977 mom-and-pop motel. Rod pulls Eric
close. Eric looks up into Rod's blue eyes. Rod slowly
unbuttons Eric's shirt. A line of hair rises from Eric's
pants to his belly button. Rod brushes his fingertips over
Eric's nipples.
Eric giggles. Rod takes a step back and removes his shirt.
He's more built than Eric -- a tight, hairless swimmers bod.
Eric cautiously puts his hands on Rod's pecs and caresses
him. Rod looks down and smiles. The outline of Eric's hard-on
is visible through his pants. Rod bends down. Eric moans as
Rod exhales through the polyester.
Rod stands and backs away.
ROD
Close your eyes.
Eric obeys. Rod takes off and flings his shoes, socks, pants,
underwear. We see his ass from behind.
ROD
Okay. Open.
Eric opens his eyes and glances down. His eyes flare.
ERIC
Oh...man. (looks up with amazement;
smiles) Sticks straight up.
Eric drops to his knees.
ROD
Hey...where you goin? C'mere.
Eric looks up, confused. Rod pulls him back to his feet...
their lips inches apart. Rod leans in, Slowly. Eric closes
his eyes. Their lips touch. They kiss.
Eric pulls back -- he looks like he just saw God.
ROD
You'd make the coolest boyfriend.
Eric tries to catch his breath.
(CONTINUED)
42
43
el i te i th el
— eS
, A ee <i. di me hr, iii, tee sere
36.
CONTINUED:
ERIC
IT...
Rod puts his finger over Eric's mouth and kisses him deeper.
INT. ERIC'S ENTRY/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Shopping bags fill the room. Ron sits on the couch, Bonnie on
the floor -- he rubs the back of her neck. Steve walks in
wearing new Levi's and looking annoyed.
BONNTE
Turn around. (inspecting) Those look
nice. (hands him another pair) Only three
more to go.
Steve rolls his eyes and leaves. Bonnie giggles as Ron hits a
ticklish spot. Eric walks in and heads up the stairs. Ron
sees him.
RON
Hey! You survived!
Eric walks in and looks at them.
BONNIE
How was it?
Eric smiles.
ERIC
Fine.
Andy, wearing Toughskins with the tags still on, runs up to
him.
ANDY
(excited)
I got school clothes!!
Eric musses Andy's hair.
BONNIE
Was it hard to say good-bye?
ERIC
No. (pause) Yeah. (pause) It was fine.
Bonnie hands him a May Co. bag.
BONNTE
Wanna try a few things on?
(CONTINUED)
43
44
45
46
4’]
CONTINUED: 43
ERIC
Can I do it later?
Bonnie looks up, and studies him.
RON
Worn out?
Eric nods.
BONNIE
Just don't forget school in the morning.
Steve walks back in as Eric groans and walks away.
STEVE
Why doesn't he have to do it?
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - NIGHT 44
Close-up on dirty Crystal Shores uniform thrown in the
corner.
Eric stands in front of the mirror in his underwear. He pulls
an Izod sweater from the May Co. bag, holds it up and stares
at his reflection.
FADE TO BLACK
The sound of an alarm ringing.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - EARLY MORNING 45
Eric wakes and throws a shoe at his alarm.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL CLASSROOM - MORNING 46
The bell rings as Eric plants his butt in the seat.
TEACHER
Welcome back, Seniors! So good to see
your smiling faces again.
The class stares blankly. Eric covers his face. The bell
rings.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL CLASSROOM - MORNING 4’7]
Eric uncovers his face. Now he's in English class. A couple
of FOOTBALL JERSEY-CLAD GUYS behind him snicker as a folded,
paper football bounces off his head. He covers his face. The
bell rings.
49
50
INT. HIGH SCHOOL CLASSROOM - DAY 48
Eric uncovers his face. Two CHEERLEADERS stand at the head of
the class. Eric covers his face.
CHEERLEADER GIRL
Jessica and I designed the t-shirts.
They're like cool, right? Only eight
dollars, you guys. Let's all show our
pride!
Eric turns to Maggie. They both cover their face. The bell
rings.
IN’. HIGH SCHOOL LIBRARY - DAY 49
Eric sits in the school library leafing through a college
manual. He stops on Ohio State University, glances at it,
then flips to New York University. He runs his fingers down
the page and stops at "Tuition - $12,000. Scholarships
available for those students demonstrating promise in music
production."
Eric looks out the window and stares into the gray rainy day.
Inside his Trapper Keeper he's scribbled..."E.H. + R.K."
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - EVENING 50
Eric stares out at the rain that trickles down the window and
looks down at his fingers which rest on the keys. He takes a
breath and rolls the four track. The previously recorded
tracks have a melancholy quality -- Eric hits "record" and
layers another keyboard part over them. There's a knock at
the door. Eric presses stop.
ERIC
Come in.
The door opens. It's Bonnie.
BONNIE
Notice I knocked this time.
ERIC
Thank you.
She sees cassette tapes scattered around the room and smiles.
BONNIE
How's it coming?
(CONTINUED)
a eG ee ee ee
50 CONTINUED: 50
© Eric thinks for a second.
ERIC
Wanna...hear some?
BONNIE
Yes! I've been dying! !
ERIC
I just wrote this. Haven't even played it
for Maggie.
Bonnie sits on the edge of the bed. Eric rewinds and hits
play. Bonnie sits listening, nodding with the music. A smile
spreads over her face. Thirty seconds in the song ends.
ERIC
It's not done, it'll be a lot better.
Bonnie's face glows with pride.
BONNIE
Eric, it's really good. Really good.
ERIC
(smiles)
Thanks.
BONNIE
Kinda different -- a little more serious
maybe.
Eric nods.
BONNIE
Just don't forget I taught you everything
you know.
Eric smiles. Pause.
ERIC
You never play anymore.
BONNIE
When do I have the time?
Pause.
ERIC
Ever regret giving it up? Dropping
© out of college and stuff? |
(CONTINUED)
50
CONTINUED: (2) 50
BONNIE
Mmmmm. (thinks) Sometimes. (pause) But...
I met your dad. I always knew I wanted a
family.
Eric looks down, thinking. Bonnie picks up his Trigonometry
book.
BONNIE
Ewww, Trigonometry. (pause) Maggie says
you guys're already counting the days
till graduation.
Eric shakes his head and rolls his eyes.
ERIC
Three people asked me today if I stuck my
finger in a light socket.
Pause. Bonnie purses her lip and shakes her head.
BONNIE
Well...(pause) Kids can get jealous
sometimes. When people are different.
Eric smiles a bit and nods. Something's on his mind.
ERIC
Did you know right away...when you met
Dad...that you'd end up together?
Bonnie smiles.
BONNIE
Didn't take long.
Pause.
ERIC
How did you know...when you were in love?
Bonnie ponders, drifting back. She smiles.
BONNIE
When I thought about him so much it hurt.
Eric nods, thinking. She looks up and gives him a look.
BONNIE
How come?
Eric shrugs and smiles. Bonnie looks in his eyes and glows.
(CONTINUED)
4i.
50 CONTINUED: (3) 50
© BONNIE
We talkin' about someone I know?
Eric smiles, uncomfortable. Bonnie smiles, too.
CUT TO:
51 INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - DAY 51
Eric digs his "Grubbers Mailing List" from a pile of papers.
He takes a deep breath and dials Rod's number.
ROOMMATE (0O.S.)
Hello.
ERIC
Rod?
ROOMMATE (0.S.)
This is his roommate. Who's this?
ERIC
Um, it's Eric. Can I speak to Rod?
ROOMMATE (0.S.)
© Lemme see if he's down the hall.
Silence. Eric breathes heavier.
ROOMMATE (0.S.)
Eric, he said he'll call you back. He
has your number?
ERIC
Yeah. Thanks.
Eric's hands shake as he hangs up.
Eric opens his desk drawer and rifles through his stationery -
- one printed with the "Fish of Lake Erie," the other, "Go
Browns!" Exasperated, he chucks them in the garbage and
Starts a letter on plain paper.
ERIC (V.O.)
Rod --
Hey stud puppy. I've been trying to get
you on the phone but you're such a busy
boy. I'm sure college life must be crazy.
CUT TO:
42.
© 52 EXT. DOWNTOWN SANDUSKY - DAY 52
Drizzle rolls off the windshield as Eric drives past a
stretch of closed motels. The wipers squeak back and forth.
ERIC (V.O. CONT'D)
...Things pretty much suck since
everybody left. Sandusky is major
Boringsville with the park closed. My
Guidance Counselor told me to go to Ohio
State -- surprise surprise. I think about
NYU a lot...what it would be like to live
in New York. I doubt if Maggie can go --
| she asked her dad about it and he just
laughed at her. It would be so weird
without her.
| 53 INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - NIGHT 53
Eric sits noodling his keyboard.
ERIC (V.O. CONT'D)
I've really been thinking a lot about
what happened between us this summer.
© some of the things you said to me. Like
over and over and over...
54 INT. HIGH SCHOOL HALLWAY - DAY 54
Eric walks down the science wing hallway. A group of PREPPY
GIRLS giggle as he passes by.
ERIC (V.O. CONT'D)
I really wish you were still around so
we could talk -- my head's full of so
much shit and God knows there's no one
around here who would "understand." I
tried to get ahold of Angie but her
number's unlisted. I keep thinking I
should talk to Magg. I just can't.
55 EXT. SALVATION ARMY THRIFT STORE - EVENING 55
The mannequin in the window sports an ugly bridesmaid dress.
56 INT. SALVATION ARMY THRIFT STORE - EVENING 56
Eric and Maggie go through a rack of funky suits. Eric tries
one on in the dressing room.
(CONTINUED)
56
57
58
59
60
CONTINUED: 56
ERIC (V.O. CONT'D)
My little brother (Andy) just walked in
and asked if I wanted to play
Centipede...
EXT. BOAT / LAKE ERIE - SUNSET 57
Eric sits at the back of the boat. Wind blows his hair. Ron
has one hand on the wheel and the other wrapped around
Bonnie. Eric looks past them to Crystal Shores in the
distance.
ERIC (V.O. CONT'D).
Does your family know about you? I can't
even conceive of ever telling my mom and
dad. DID I TELL YOU I CAN'T WAIT FOR HIGH
SCHOOL TO BE OVER!? I miss all the
Grubbers like crazy. Especially you. I
just want you to know -- I really like
you a lot. Please call or write.
All my love, Eric
EXT. MATLBOX - DAY 58
Eric slips the letter in a mailbox.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. WATERFRONT - AFTERNOON 59
A photograph of Eric and Angie -- Angie hikes up her skort.
Eric and Maggie laugh as they go through the pictures.
ERIC
Lovey! That's convenient! !
Another photo -- the lipstick stained maxi-pad on Frieda's
head. Eric and Magg crack up.
MAGGIE
Frieda! !
Next shot -- Eric and Rod on Maggie's lap. Eric and Magg are
kissing, Rod's hand is on Eric's leg. Eric stares...
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - NIGHT 60
It's dark. Eric sits alone still staring at the picture.
(CONTINUED)
60
61
62
66
CONTINUED: 60
ERIC (V.O.)
P.S. Did I tell you how beautiful you
are? When I saw your picture again, I
remembered how blue your eyes are. How
you smell.
Eric reaches under the sheets, pulls his underwear off and
closes his eyes.
ERIC (V.O.)
When you kissed me...
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. GRUB WAGON INN KITCHEN - NIGHT 61
Rod appears through the mist. He's straddling the dishwasher
in his Crystal Shores uniform top...and no pants. He smiles.
ROD
Hey little boy. (peels off his shirt;
low voice) You'd make the coolest
boyfriend.
He sprays hot water...it trickles down his chest.
FADE TO BLACK.
OMIT SCENES 62-65 62
INT. ERIC'S KITCHEN - EVENING 66
Maggie enters the kitchen door and grabs Bonnie.
MAGGIE
Close your eyes.
Bonnie obeys.
MAGGIE
Okay. Open.
She looks up. Eric enters. His hair is dyed two shades of
orange, the sides buzzed high above his ears. Bonnie’s jaw
drops.
BONNIE
Oh, God.
ERIC
What?
Bonnie shakes her head and looks down.
(CONTINUED)
66 CONTINUED: 66
BONNIE
It's getting a bit out of hand.
ERIC
I thought you'd like it.
BONNIE
Eric. It's strange.
Pause.
ERIC
I don't want to look like everybody else.
Bonnie looks down.
BONNIE
-Dinner's on the table. Maggie, you
staying?
MAGGIE
No thanks. I gotta go.
67 INT. ERIC'S DINING ROOM - EVENING 67
The Hunter Family sits around the table, eating pot roast.
Ron nudges a daydreaming Eric and passes him some creamed
corn. Eric notices Steve staring at him.
STEVE
(low)
Nice hair.
Eric mouths "fuck off."
ANDY
May I be excused?
BONNIE
Yes, you may.
Steve looks at Andy's plate -- it's almost full.
STEVE
(to Bonnie)
You used to make us lick the plate.
(turns to Eric) Didn't she?
Eric is spacing. He doesn't answer.
RON
Eric?
(CONTINUED)
i ee
46.
67 CONTINUED: 67
@ ERIC
I've got something big to discuss with
you.
Bonnie sets down her glass of milk. Steve leaves the table.
BONNIE
Do I need a cocktail?
Eric takes a deep breath.
ERIC
I know I always thought I'd go to Ohio
State, but (pause) I think I want
something better. (turns to Bonnie) You
know how you said you always wanted to
live in New York City? I think I would,
too. Ever heard of New York. University?
Bonnie and Ron nod.
ERIC
They have these great courses in music
production. (pause) I'd really love to go
|
© there.
They stare at him. Bonnie's eyes are wide. Silent beat.
ERIC
Of course it costs a fortune. But I did
the math -- I put in my Crystal Shores
money, get a bunch of student loans,
there's this scholarship I can apply for,
if that comes through, and you guys kick
in the rest...I think I can just squeak
| by.
Bonnie and Ron look at each other.
| RON
How much are we talkin' here? From us.
ERIC
Maybe four or five thousand. A year.
Bonnie and Ron look at other. Bonnie looks at Eric. Her face
is glowing.
BONNIE
New York. New York City.
ERIC
Yeah. (smiles) New York City.
I i ee ST. Se ee
Al.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - EVENING
Eric stares at his phone, waiting for it to ring. It doesn't.
He turns to his TV where Barbara Walters interviews Boy
George on 20/20.
A knock on the door -- it creaks and Ron sticks his head in.
RON
That's some hair-do.
ERIC
Thanks.
Pause.
RON
What ya watchin'?
ERIC
Just some interview show.
They watch a little more, in silence. Ron looks at Fric's
synth.
RON
That power supply still smoking?
ERIC
Yeah.
Ron picks up the power supply box and flips it open.
RON
Listen...this New York thing, you're
really serious about it, huh?
ERIC
Yeah.
Ron looks down. He fiddles with wires as he speaks.
RON
We haven't said much to you kids, but
the business...it's been rough the last
couple years. I keep doing everything I
can think of...but...I just can't get it
back on track. (pause) Maybe it's the
economy, I don't know...
ERIC
Listen, Dad...
(CONTINUED)
68 CONTINUED: . 68
© RON
Your Mom and I are gonna try to send you
to New York. (pause) She didn't want me
to tell you this...she's decided to get a
job.
ERIC
What?
RON
She already talked to your Uncle Ray
about helping out at the drive-thru.
(pause, flicks the power supply on and
off) She thinks it's the only way.
Pause.
ERIC
Mom working?
Ron hands Eric the repaired power supply box.
RON
We'll do whatever it takes.
© 69 EXT. RANCH HOUSE - NIGHT 69
Maggie and Eric pull up to a suburban ranch home. There's a
party going on -- music blares, kids hang out on the lawn.
Eric is the height of Salvation Army fashion -- a narrow-
lapeled green tuxedo jacket, skinny tie, wild hair. Maggie
looks a bit more daring than usual in a red dress. She
applies a fresh coat of eyeliner and puts it back.
ERIC
Wait.
MAGGIE
What?
ERIC
Do mine.
MAGGIE
Seriously?
Eric nods. She smiles.
MAGGIE
Look up. (pulls out pencil) Hold still.
She pencils some on his lower lid. He blinks, stares at his
reflection, turns to her and smiles. Maggie blushes.
(CONTINUED)
69
70
71
CONTINUED: 69
MAGGIE
You look great.
INT. RANCH HOUSE - NIGHT 70
Eric and Maggie walk down the packed entry hall. All
conversations stop -- everyone stares. The Cheerleader Girl
from school giggles.
CHEERLEADER GIRL
(Low)
Freakshow.
They escape into the living room and stare in horror at
everyone dancing to a Huey Lewis song. Despite the alcohol,
everyone dances the "stick-up-the-ass-white-suburban-
shuffle." A GUY pours a beer over his buddy's head.
GUY
Yeah! Whew!! Party hearty!!
MAGGIE
Help.
CUT TO:
INT. RANCH HOUSE - NIGHT 71
A can of Bud foams as Eric pops it open. He sits alone in the
corner occasionally glancing at a TALL BLONDE GUY who looks a
bit like Rod. The lights have dimmed, couples slow dance and
make out to something by Bryan Adams.
Eric takes a huge swig of beer. He stares as one BOYFRIEND
rubs his GIRLFRIEND'S ass and slips her some tongue. Eric
takes another swig. He notices Maggie dancing with DAN
MCALISTER just as ED ANDERSON and SCOTT VAN SICKLE, typical
jeans and t-shirt Ohio guys, sit next to him.
ED
Looks like Maggie and Danny Boy are
getting along. Doesn't she know he's
a fucking prick?
ERIC
Guess not.
SCOTT
I still don't know why you don't get
together with her. The way she looks at
you.
Eric takes another drink. Silence.
(CONTINUED)
71
CONTINUED:
ED
You alright, man?
ERIC
(burps)
Got a pretty good buzz goin', actually.
Ed clinks his can against Eric's and smiles.
ED
Alright. (pause) Seriously...we were
just sayin' how we never see you no more.
Ever since summer.
ERIC
I know, I'm sorry. We gotta rent a video
or something.
Eric watches Dan McAlister put his hands on Maggie's hips.
She knocks them away and laughs. Eric downs the beer.
ERIC
Who's fuckin' music is this anyway?!
A WRESTLING JOCK passes by and stares at Eric.
WRESTLING JOCK
(to Eric)
Hey dude, did Boy George cut your hair?
Several kids laugh. Scott looks at Eric and rolls his eyes.
SCOTT
Prickweed.
The song ends and "Sex Dwarf" by Soft Cell comes on. Maggie.
continues dancing with Dan, who doesn't quite know how to
move to the new beat.
ERIC
Finally -- something good.
Eric rises, sways a bit, and steps onto the dancefloor.
Eric dances by himself. His moves are different than everyone
~~ Slower, more fluid. Maggie smiles. Dan smirks. People
stare.
Eric closes his eyes. Everyone melts away...even Maggie. He
dances faster. Several people leave the floor. Eric bumps
into someone and opens his eyes -- it's the blonde Rod look-
alike. Eric smiles sweetly at him.
(CONTINUED)
71
72
73
-@
74
75
80
CONTINUED: (2) 71
ERIC
(sweet smile)
Sorry.
The look-alike shakes his head.
TALL BLONDE GUY
You queer or something?
Eric stops dancing. Someone Giggles. Eric looks up and
notices the people Staring at him. He turns to Maggie, who
has her arms around Dan McAlister.
Eric pushes his way out of the crowd. Maggie sees him run out
the front door.
MAGGIE
Hey...!
EXT. RANCH HOUSE - NIGHT 72
Eric collides into a JOCK as he runs for his Car.
INT. ESTATE WAGON - NIGHT 73
Eric slams the door. His hands shake as he grabs a tape and
jams it in. “The Beautiful Ones” by Prince Cranks at full
volume.
EXT. SUBURBAN STREETS - NIGHT 74
Eric barrels down deserted Sandusky StreetsS...past his his
house, his church, his school. He presses the accelerator,
speed increasing with the music
Eric rounds a corner without Slowing. He is crying as he
approaches an intersection.
The light is red, Eric does not see. A car honks —- Eric hits
the brakes.
Eric skids to a Stop, barely missing the car. He covers his
face, tears streaming down.
OMIT SCENES 75-79 75
EXT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. PARKING LoT -— NIGHT 80
The Estate Wagon pulls into a parking slot. Eric wipes his
face and looks out at the Fruit and Nut, which stands
82
52.
EXT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. - NIGHT
Music pulses as he approaches the entrance. He stops at the
Sign on the door..."The Universal Fruit and Nut Company is a
gay establishment, but all are welcome." Eric takes a deep
breath. He steps inside.
INT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. - NIGHT
"Relax" by Frankie Goes to Hollywood pounds over the sound
system. An AIDS awareness poster featuring a man covered head
to toe in a condom hangs in the dim entry hall.
Eric's head spins as he enters the main room. It's a big
place -- at its heart sits the bar, an amoebae-shaped island.
The dance floor, to the left, is packed. Booths line the far
wall and the rest is filled with tables.
Eric tries to focus but it's all a blur. Excitement fills the
place...motion, laughter. It's a fairly equal mix of men and
women, all ages. He notices two GOOD-LOOKING GUYS with their
arms around each other -- kissing.
He takes an empty seat at the bar. The BARTENDER sets a
"Fruit and Nut" napkin in front of him.
BARTENDER
What can I do ya?
ERIC
(nervous)
Ahh...a fuzzy navel.
The bartender studies Eric's face, smiles and mixes the
drink.
Some of Eric's eyeliner has run down his cheek. He surveys
the room, which is a little clearer now. It's a fairly equal
mix of men and women, all ages. Eric notices two GOOD-LOOKING
GUYS with their arms around each other -- kissing. The
bartender sets the drink down on a Fruit and Nut napkin.
BARTENDER
Buck fifty.
ANGIE (0O.S.)
Put that drink on the house.
Eric turns around. There is Angie.
ANGIE
Lovey!
(CONTINUED)
82
CONTINUED:
ERIC
Hey! !
Angie screams, opens her arms and embraces him. She pulls
back, grabs a cocktail napkin and wets it with her tongue.
ANGIE
Hold still.
She wipes the smudged eyeliner from Eric's face and nods.
ANGIE
Good as new.
ERIC
(embarrassed)
Thanks.
ANGIE
Lemme Show you off to the Ladies. (grabs
his hand) So how do you like the place?
Beats workin’ the fuckin’ Grubwagon,
huh?!
Angie pulls Eric over to a large circular table. A bunch of
characters sit around gabbing and laughing.
ANGIE
Ladies, I'd like to introduce Mr. Eric
Hunter.
EVERYONE
Hello.
ANGIE
(goes around the table)
Eric, this is Chuckie...
CHUCKIE - early 30's, blonde, mustache, mischievous eyes.
ANGIE (cont’d)
Foodtown..
FOODTOWN - mid 20's, black, heavy, well-dressed.
ANGIE (cont’d)
And Miss Ruby Rodgers...
RUBY RODGERS - six-foot four drag queen, sequined gown,
gorgeous blonde wig.
(CONTINUED)
82
82
83
CONTINUED: (2) 82
ANGIE (cont’ dad)
I expect all of you to be on your best
behavior.
CHUCKIE
With eyes like those we'll show her
the time of her life.
Eric looks a bit overwhelmed. Angie swats Chuckie.
The gay bar anthem "Coming Out of Hiding" comes on. Everyone
shrieks, explodes from their seats end stampedes the
dancefloor. Eric is pulled along.
Standing in the shadows too long...
I'm coming out of hiding
The Ladies yelp and thrust their arms in the air.
Eric's eyes are wide as he dances. He tries to take it all in
-- men dancing with men, women with women. From his POV we
see all the freaks on the floor: butch dykes, femmes, fag
hags and a drag queen. They come in all colors, all ages.
GREGG, 23, cute and dark-haired, brushes against Eric. Eric
turns, Gregg gives hima little smile and dances away.
Foodtown raises an eyebrow and smiles.
INT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. - NIGHT 83
A table full of cocktails. Eric sits drinking another fuzzy
navel as the Ladies carry on.
ANGIE
(to Eric)
Don't let those high school assholes get
you down. You'll be outta there before
you know it.
Eric shakes his head. He sees Gregg (from the dance floor)
approaching the table.
CHUCKIE
(tight-lipped)
Here he comes.
Gregg kneels down next to Eric.
GREGG
Can I ask you to dance?
Eric looks to the Ladies and they smile.
(CONTINUED)
55.
83 CONTINUED: 83
ERIC
Sure.
ANGIE
(whispers to Eric)
Be careful.
Gregg and Eric find a spot on the packed dance floor.
The Ladies look on.
Eric smiles at Gregg. They begin to dance.
SLOW DISSOLVE TO:
84 INT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. - NIGHT 84
"Obsession" by Animotion blares as the party continues. The
floor has thinned. Eric smiles a drunk grin as Gregg brushes
his ass. The two of them dance with ORCA, an enormous fag-hag
in a black catsuit who looks like Divine's sister. Orca pulls
out a bottle of poppers and inhales.
ORCA
Whooo!
GREGG
Go Orca. Do it, girl!
She passes the bottle to Gregg, who takes a drag and gives it
to Eric. Eric looks a little wary.
GREGG
Poppers. Make you horny.
Eric takes a whiff and throws his head back.
ERIC
Woooow!
Gregg dances closer and rubs against Eric's crotch. They
kiss, hot and wet. Eric whispers in Gregg's ear.
ERIC
I want you.
From across the bar, the Ladies watch as Eric and Gregg leave
together. Chuckie holds out his hand and everyone hands hima
five dollar bill. Chuckie smirks.
FOODTOWN
Bitch.
INT. GREGG'S CAR - NIGHT
A button pops as Gregg undoes Eric's shirt. Eric laughs.
ERIC
Wait, hold on...where can we go?
GREGG
Go? This is it.
Gregg leans over and unzips Eric's pants. Eric's underwear
rips as Gregg tears at him. Eric starts to laugh.
ERIC
Damn !
Gregg looks up at Eric and grins. Eric thrusts his head back
as Gregg goes down. He looks out the window nervously, makes
Sure no one's looking, and pumps his hips.
CUT TO:
Eric's face is crunched up against the vinyl seat, his pants
down around his knees. Gregg smacks his butt.
ERIC
What are you doing?
GREGG
Never been rimmed?
ERIC
Don't you need...a rubber?
GREGG
(laughs)
On my tongue?
Gregg buries his face. Eric moans.
CUT TO:
Post orgasm -- Eric opens his eyes, breathing heavily.
ERIC
Oh, man. (trying to catch his breath)
That was awesome.
Gregg zips up his pants.
GREGG
Hot little bitch, aren't ya? Nice cock.
(CONTINUED)
85 CONTINUED: 85
© ERIC
Thanks. (shy smile) Yours, too.
Awkward silence.
ERIC
Wanna get some breakfast? Country Kitchen
or something?
GREGG
I gotta go. (looks at watch) Late for |
| work.
ERIC
Where do you work?
GREGG
| Long John Silver. Assistant Manager.
Pause.
ERIC
Cool. (pause) Do you want my number?
GREGG
Ah...yeah.
|
|
|
|
|
Eric writes it down ona crumpled Long John Silvers bag.
|
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
He leans over to give Gregg a kiss -- Gregg turns his head
and Eric gives him an awkward peck on the cheek. Eric pulls
away.
GREGG
I'll see ya.
86 EXT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT PARKING LOT - NIGHT 86
Eric dials the pay phone in front of the bar. His hair isa
| mess. He sees his reflection in the dirty glass, tries to
wipe off some of the smudged make-up but it only gets worse.
ROD
(woken up)
Hello.
ERIC
Rod, it's Eric.
@ Pause.
|
(CONTINUED)
86
CONTINUED:
ROD
(low)
It's the middle of the night.
ERIC
I just slept with somebody. I went out
to the Fruit and Nut, the gay bar...I
picked somebody up.
Pause. Rod sighs.
ROD
Was he hung?
Eric blushes. He touches his face and smiles.
ERIC
(soft)
Not like you.
Rod laughs low.
ERIC
We did it in the car, right in the
parking lot. It was really sexy and all,
but...
ROD
Did you do the nasty?
ERIC
What?
ROD
Did he open the backdoor?
ERIC
God, no. (pause) I don't think so.
Does rimming count?
ROD
Oh my.
Rod laughs again.
ERIC
Rod. (pause) Afterwards...he wouldn't
even look at me.
Silence on Rod's end.
(CONTINUED)
59.
86 CONTINUED: (2) 86
© ERIC
Do you think most guys only care about
sex?
A rustle in the background.
ROD
Look. I really have to go.
Eric sees himself reflected in the phone. He's got a hickey.
ERIC
Oh shit...he gave me a fucking hickey.
(tries to rub it off) My Mom...I know
she'll notice...
ROD
Eric...I'm hanging up.
ERIC
Wait. (pause) I just want you to know.
When I was with him...I kept thinking
about you.
@ Long pause.
ERIC
I miss you, Rod. (pause) A lot.
Pause.
ROD
Listen. (pause) Danny and I got back
together.
ERIC
What? When?
Pause.
ROD
This summer.
Pause.
ERIC
Before we slept together?
Silence.
© ROD
I have to go.
(CONTINUED)
86
87
89
90
60.
CONTINUED: (3) 86
ERIC
Rod..
ROD
Eric. Please don't call again. I'm sorry.
Click. Rod is gone. Eric is stunned.
Eric
Eric
ERIC
Hello?
slams the receiver against the phone.
ERIC
slams the receiver several more times and then leans
against the glass. He takes a breath, digs out another
quarter and puts it in the slot. [It rings...
INT.
MAGGIE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT 87
Maggie turns on a light.
EXT.
Eric
Eric
EXT.
Eric
INT.
Eric
door.
UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. PARKING LOT - NIGHT 88
MAGGIE (0.S.)
Hello?
is silent.
MAGGIE (0O.S.)
Hello...
starts to hang up.
MAGGIE (0.S.)
Eric? (pause) Where are you?
ERIC
I need to talk.
MAGGIE'S HOUSE - NIGHT 89
pulls up.
MAGGIE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT 90
follows Maggie into her room. She quietly shuts the
MAGGIE
What's going on?
(CONTINUED)
90
ol.
90
CONTINUED:
She sits down on the bed. Eric sits next to her and gives her
a hug.
MAGGIE
Hey. (pause) Eric...I'm sorry.
He holds her.
MAGGIE
You know I don't care about Dan
McAlister. I was just being stupid.
He pulls away.
ERIC
There's something I have to tell you.
I can't hold it in anymore.
Beat.
ERIC
Promise me. No matter what I say. Nothing
will change between us.
MAGGIE
Eric...
ERIC
Promise.
Maggie nods, a glow Spreading across her face. Eric takes a
deep breath.
ERIC
This is so hard to finally say out loud.
Maggie smiles.
ERIC
I think I like guys.
Frozen beat.
MAGGIE
What?
Eric stares at her. Maggie reacts.
ERIC
But -- I don't know. (pause) I don't
know what the fuck T am.
Maggie reacts.
(CONTINUED)
90
CONTINUED:
Silence.
Pause.
Pause.
(2)
ERIC
Magg, you're scaring me. Tell me I'm not
a freak.
ERIC
You're all I have.
MAGGIE
I'll be fine. (pause) You're my best
friend.
MAGGIE
It doesn't change anything.
He hugs her, relieved.
ERIC
Thank you.
They hold each other a while.
MAGGIE
It's Rod. Isn't it?
He pulls away and nods.
Pause.
Eric shakes his head no. He buries his head in her.
Pause.
ERIC
You knew?
MAGGIE
No. (pause) I don't know.
MAGGIE
Is he your boyfriend?
ERIC
He doesn't even care.
ERIC
It really liked him. He said he liked me.
62.
(CONTINUED)
90
90
63.
CONTINUED: (3) 90
Pause.
MAGGIE
You had...sex?
Eric nods.
ERIC
I didn't even know what I was doing.
Long Silence. Eric gets choked up. She strokes his hair.
MAGGIE
Eric...
ERIC
Every time I try to forget him...I
remember him kissing me. (pause) How it
felt so right. How I miss him so much.
Maggie consoles him.
ERIC
I need your help. I need you so bad.
She holds him.
ERIC
All I want is to meet somebody special.
I want to fall in love.
Maggie reacts. He looks up at her. She forces a smile through
the tears. He wipes them.
ERIC
Maybe in five years I'll sort everything
out, grow out of this. You and T'l1l get
married and have eight kids.
She laughs and rolls her eyes. Silent beat.
MAGGIE
Is that a hickey?
Eric pulls away, blushing. He smiles and covers it.
ERIC
tI met this guy at the Fruit and Nut.
MAGGIE
The gay bar?
(CONTINUED)
90
91
64,
CONTINUED: (4) 90
ERIC
It's great, you're really gonna like it.
You're not gonna believe —_ Angie is the
manager.
Pause.
ERIC
Maybe we can go...together.
Maggie forces a smile.
MAGGIE
Yeah.
SLOW DISSOLVE To:
INT. ERIC'S ENTRY - EARLY MORNING 91
Eric tip-toes into the house. It's quiet. He heads toward the
steps without making a peep.
Eric jumps at the Sight of his mon. She wears a green
polyester uniform with "Ray's Drive-Thru Carryout" stitched
across her chest and a "Bonnie" nametag.
ERIC
Gave me a (covers chest) heart attack,
BONNIE
You were out all night.
ERIC
(nervous)
Magg and I went out for breakfast after
the party. Country Kitchen. It was really
busy...we had to Walt.
BONNIE
A call would have been nice.
Eric nods.
ERIC
I know. I'm sorry.
BONNIE
I was worried. (pause) Just warn me next
time.
(CONTINUED)
91
92
93
95
96
65.
CONTINUED: 91
ERIC
Okay. I'm really sorry.
Eric starts to walk away but stops and looks at her.
ERIC
Weird seeing you in that uniform.
Bonnie smiles and points to her hips.
BONNIE
At least the pockets work.
Eric smiles and nods. She twists her wedding ring and watches
him disappear up the stairs.
INT. ERIC'S BATHROOM - EARLY MORNING 92
Eric closes his eyes and lets the hot water run over him.
Eyeliner runs down his cheeks. Steam fills the room.
INT. ERIC'S BATHROOM - NIGHT (MONTAGE) 93
A steam covered mirror. Eric wipes it off to reveal himself
done up for another evening.
INT. ERIC'S ENTRY/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT (MONTAGE CONT'D) 94
Eric passes by his Mom and Dad in the living room. Ron is
rubbing Bonnie's feet.
ERIC
I'll be over at Maggie's.
BONNIE AND RON
Bye.
INT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. - NIGHT (MONTAGE CONT'D) 95
Eric enters the bar. The Ladies wave him over. He kisses
Angie.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL - DAY (MONTAGE CONT'D) 96
Eric sits in class. He looks up at a CUTE BLONDE GIRL who
Stares flirtatiously. Eric looks behind him but realizes
she's looking at him. Uncomfortable, he glances down at his
desk where he's filling out an NyU Scholarship Application.
The bell rings and he jumps out of his seat.
TEACHER (0.S.)
Have a good weekend, people.
98
99
100
101
102
INT. ERIC'S BATHROOM - NIGHT (MONTAGE CONT'D) 97
Eric wipes steam off the mirror. His clothes are even more
outrageous.
INT. ERIC'S ENTRY/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT (MONTAGE CONT'D) 98
Eric passes by his Mom and Dad in the living room. They catch
a brief glimpse of his funky outfit and noticeable eyeliner.
ERIC
I'll be over at Maggie's.
He's out the door. Bonnie and Ron look at each other and then
back to the television.
INT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. - NIGHT (MONTAGE CONT'D) 99
Chuckie holds a Polaroid -- Eric poses with the Ladies.
Foodtown, Angie and Ruby Rodgers all plant kisses on him. The
camera flashes.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - NIGHT 100
Eric looks up into the mirror, checks his look, picks up the
phone and dials.
INT. MAGGIE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT (END MONTAGE) 101
Clothes are laid out on Maggie's bed. She stands in front of
the mirror in a skirt and bra, looking frazzled. The phone
rings.
MAGGIE
Hello.
ERIC (0.S.)
You ready?
MAGGIE
I don't know what to wear.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - NIGHT 102
Eric laughs.
ERIC
Something fun.
MAGGIE (0.S.)
Can I just meet you out there?
Pause.
(CONTINUED)
67.
102
102 CONTINUED:
© ERIC
Sure. (pause) Everything okay?
MAGGIE (0.S.)
Just look for me.
103 INT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. - NIGHT 103
Eric sits laughing with the Ladies. The table is filled with
empty cocktails. One seat is empty.
ERIC
(drunk)
O.K. Dyke, diesel dyke, drag queen,
fag hag...I think I've got it. Oh,
Sugar daddy. What's a Sugar daddy?
OO SS
The Ladies all laugh.
| LADIES
‘ (in unison)
Mr. Johnson.
) ERIC
© Who?
) Chuckie motions to MR. JOHNSON, late 50's, Sitting at a booth
]
He wears a white suit and mirrored sunglasses.
Mr. Johnson snaps his fingers and RANDY appears. A cute boy
around Eric's age, Randy has a baby face and a cut-off t-
shirt that reveals his muscled stomach. Mr. Johnson pulls out
a thick wad of fifties ina diamond studded-money clip.
in the corner.
MR. JOHNSON
(nasal voice)
Get daddy a scotch and soda.
Mr. Johnson hands Randy a fifty and puckers his lips. Randy
plants a wet kiss on him and Mr. Johnson rewards him with
another fifty. Eric and the Ladies scream.
FOODTOWN
Fresh meat.
All heads turn to the bar and then back.
CHUCKIE
Oh yes. He's checking me out.
RUBY RODGERS
© Get out. His eye is glued to my ass.
(CONTINUED)
103
68.
103
CONTINUED:
FOODTOWN
Hold it. (turns to Eric) I think
someone’s got us all beat.
ERIC
Me? (blushes) Is he cute?
Ruby Rodgers holds up her compact and stares in the
reflection.
RUBY RODGERS
My my. Young. Sort of...punky. Reddish
hair. Mmmm hmmmm...
FOODTOWN
Can you make out the basket?
Eric slowly turns and sees JONATHON, 20. They make eye
contact for a brief second before smiling and turning away.
Jonathon is a total cutie. Big blue eyes behind clear plastic
sunglasses, a tight striped shirt that shows off his lean
muscles and reddish-blonde hair styled like Bowie from "Let's
Dance."
Eric turns back toward the Ladies.
FOODTOWN
She's blushing!
ANGIE
(from the stage)
Let's give a big Fruit and Nut welcome
to our next performer...Petunia Peacock.
People applaud but no one comes out.
ANGIE
(from the stage)
Petunia. You're on. Thank you.
PETUNIA (O.S.)
(from behind curtain)
Wait -- hold on...
PETUNIA finally emerges. She has a full beard and mustache
and wears a little girl dress. She skips around the stage
tossing flowers into the audience. The Ladies gag.
LADIES
Oh God.
(CONTINUED)
103
CONTINUED: (2) 103
Eric turns back to Jonathon. They both smile.
CUT TO:
Eric walks to the bar and orders a drink. He glances up at
packed dancefloor, then looks over at Jonathon, who's back is
to him. Eric takes a swig, walks up behind Jonathon and tugs
on the braided piece of hair that hangs down his back.
ERIC
Nice tail.
Jonathon turns. His face lights up.
JONATHON
Thanks.
Jonathon has an Annie Lennox pin on his collar.
ERIC
Annie -- cool!
JONATHON
What? (looks down at his Shirt) Oh,
Annie!
Eric looks at Jonathon's other buttons -- Lene Lovich, The
smiths, a pink triangle, the Bronski Beat.
ERIC
I'm a huge Eurythmics fan.
JONATHON
Really?! We play them all the time.
ERIC
Who's we?
JONATHON
I DJ at my college radio station. (radio
voice) WOSU -- The Alternative.
ERIC
Cool. I might go to Ohio State. You live
in the dorms?
JONATHON
(nods)
Talley Hall. (makes face) The gay wing.
(studies Eric) Are you in high school?
(CONTINUED)
103
104
105
70.
CONTINUED: (3) 103
ERIC
Jailbait, I know. (smiles and extends
hand) I'm Eric.
They shake.
JONATHON
Jonathon.
Eric looks at Jonathon with goo-goo eyes. He notices
Jonathon's earring -- a silver hoop in his right ear.
ERIC
Do people give you shit for that?
JONATHON
(touches earring)
Sometimes.
The song changes to Bronski Beat's "Smalltown Boy". They look
at each other and smile.
JONATHON
Wanna dance?
ERIC
Sure.
They head to the dance floor.
EXT. FRUIT AND NUT PARKING LOT - NIGHT 104
Maggie pulls into a parking slot. She has transformed herself
into a new wave goddess -- her face painted with wild make-
up, her hair spiked up and her black Salvation Army dress cut
low to show off her Cleavage. She retouches her lipstick.
INT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. -— NIGHT 105
Eric and Jonathon dance.
Ruby and Foodtown take the floor -- Ruby grabs Foodtown's
hand and starts Spinning him through some serious disco
moves. Eric and Jonathon scream, totally eating it up.
Maggie enters the bar. She re-adjusts her dress self-
consciously as she searches for a familiar face. She spots
Angie heading to the dancefloor carrying three shots of
peppermint schnapps.
MAGGIE
Angie.
(CONTINUED)
71.
CONTINUED: 105
Angie doesn't hear her. She hands Jonathon and Eric and the
shots.
ANGIE
On the house!
They clink glasses, down the schnapps and throw their heads
back. Maggie watches Angie dance with Eric and Jonathon. They
are all laughing.
Jonathon dances close and whispers in Eric's ear. Angie makes
a face and splits. She licks her lips at a HOT DYKE on her
way off the floor and does a double take at the Sight of
Maggie.
ANGIE
Maggie?
Angie smiles and gives her a hug.
ANGIE
You made it!
Maggie nods and smiles. The Ladies watch from the next table.
ANGIE
Heading up to the bar. Get ya a wine
cooler or something?
MAGGIE
(nods)
Peach.
ANGIE
Convenient!
Maggie turns back to the dancefloor and stares at Eric and
Jonathon. Laughter erupts from the Ladies table. Magg watches
Jonathon put his hands on Eric's hips. More laughter...
CHUCKIE (O.S.)
-.-didn't know Eric had a fag hag...
Maggie turns to Chuckie, who's staring right at her. They
lock eyes and look away. Maggie looks back to the dancefloor
her face white, and sees Eric and Jonathon are locked ina
kiss. Angie arrives with the cooler.
ANGIE
Maggie...Lovey!!!
Eric looks up right into Maggie's eyes. Frozen moment .
(CONTINUED)
°
105
106
107
72.
CONTINUED: (2) 105
Maggie turns on her heels and runs for the exit.
EXT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. PARKING LOT - NIGHT 106
Maggie rips off her earrings and throws them on the ground as
she runs to her car. Eric chases after her. She kicks a beer
bottle and it smashes against a telephone pole.
DRAG QUEEN
Bull's-eye, girl.
ERIC
Magg!
Jonathon and the Ladies come out.
ERIC
Maggie!
She slams the door and peels out of the parking lot. Eric
runs to his car. The Ladies watch the drama with wide eyes.
Angie touches Eric's shoulder.
ANGIE
You okay?
ERIC
I gotta go.
Eric gets in his car.
JONATHON
Eric!
Eric pulls away in a Cloud of dust.
EXT. CLEVELAND ROAD INTERSECTION - NIGHT 107
Eric approaches Maggie's car which sits at a red light.
Eric pulls up next to Maggie. She scrapes her lipstick off
with her wrist.
ERIC
Magg...what is it?!
MAGGIE
Are you blind? How Stupid can you be?
Eric gets out and runs over to her window.
ERIC
You said you were cool --
(CONTINUED)
—_- —- ~ a al
oe: =a oe Soe oe ”
107
eo.
109
73.
CONTINUED: 107
MAGGIE
(rips off false eyelash)
I look like a clown.
ERIC
Magg, I'm sorry...
MAGGIE
(tears running down)
Why did you ever kiss me?
ERIC
Cause I wanted to.
MAGGIE
You're gay, Eric. (pause) Just leave
me the fuck alone.
She speeds away, running the red light.
Eric stands alone in the intersection. The Stoplight turns
green above his head.
DISSOLVE To:
EXT. UNIVERSAI, FRUIT AND NUT CO. PARKING LOT - NIGHT 108
Eric walks through the parking lot looking like he was just
punched in the stomach. He passes Gregg's Camero —- the
Eric nears the entrance and Chuckie bursts out.
ERIC
Have you seen..
Chuckie doubles over and pukes his guts out in the bushes.
Eric covers his face and enters.
INT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. - NIGHT 109
Music still plays, a handful of customers cling to the bar.
Foodtown stands by the door with a beer in his hand.
FOODTOWN
(drunk)
Hey...there you are.
ERIC
Is Jonathon still here? That guy I was
dancing with?
(CONTINUED)
109
110
111
CONTINUED: 109
FOODTOWN
Long gone.
ERIC
Angie?
FOODTOWN
History.
Ruby Rodgers passes Foodtown and winks.
RUBY RODGERS
No luck tonight?
FOODTOWN
Workin' on it.
BARTENDER
(loud, grating)
Alright girls, all alcohol behind the
bar!
Bright overhead lights flick on. Everyone groans.
ric looks around the room which is transformed by harsh
shadows. The shoddiness of the place, normally concealed in
darkness, is revealed in the light -- ripped vinyl chairs,
peeling paint...everything stained with cigarette smoke.
Several LONELY SOULS sit at the bar alone, downing their last
drinks. A shrill laugh bounces off the walls. Randy sits on
Mr. Johnson's lap and pets his daddy's tummy.
Eric stares out as PETUNIA PEACOCK dances by herself on the
floor, her image distorted and Surreal in the mirror.
DISSOLVE To:
INT. ESTATE WAGON - NIGHT 110
Road stripes float by. Eric stares out into the darkness.
He passes a sign -- "Ohio State University -- 45 miles" and
glances at the digital clock -- 2:50 am.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. TALLY HALL - NIGHT 111
A typical all-American college dorm.
@ 112 INT. TALLY HALL LOBBY — NIGHT
112
Eric walks up toa burly SECURITY GUARD.
ERIC
I'm looking for a guy named Jonathon.
He's got reddish hair, kind of a punk
look.
The guard looks up from his magazine.
GUARD
Last name?
ERIC
I don't know. You'd recognize this guy --
he wears all these buttons...has a long
tail (motions) kinda hangs down...
The guard gives him another Strange look.
GUARD
That about narrows it down.
ERIC
Look, I know he's here. This is Tally
Hall, right? He's here somewhere.
The guard looks up and stares.
GUARD
He and five hundred and forty-six others.
Need a last name.
ERIC
(soft)
Shit.
Disappointed, Eric turns and exits the lobby. He reappears a
moment later and walks back up to the desk.
ERIC
I just remembered his name.
The guard looks up.
ERIC
It's Rod, not Jonathon. Rod Kowalski.
The guard gives him a Strange look.
©@ 113
114
76.
INT. DORM CORRIDOR - NIGHT
113
Fluorescent light flickers as Eric walks along the hallway.
He stops at the room at the end of the hall -- #792. There's
an erasable memo pad with the pen missing on the door. He
puts his ear up to it.
ROD (0.S.)
(loud / drunk)
Hey little boy.
Eric turns. There stands Rod, wearing white painters' pants
and a pink Izod. One Side of his collar is up, the other has
fallen. His blonde hair is mussed and his eyes are glassy.
ROD
Thought that was you. Came to visit me?
ERIC
(smiles)
Actually...
Rod interrupts with laughter.
ROD
Look at you!
Eric smiles.
CUT TO:
INT. ROD'S DORM ROOM - NIGHT 114
Eric and Rod drink straight vodka from coffee mugs, their
eyes glassy. They both Giggle as Rod fumbles with the bottle.
ROD
Shhh. (giggles) Shhhhh.
ERIC
(laughing)
What?
Rod refills Eric's mug and spills some.
He dips his fingers
into the puddle and licks them. Eric cra
Cks up again.
ROD
(giggling)
Shhhhhh. . .
ERIC
(trying to be quiet)
Why do we have to "shhhh" ?
(CONTINUED)
77.
114 CONTINUED:
114
Rod grins and motions to the bed next to his. His ROOMMATE is
ied in the covers. Eric does a double
take.
ERIC
Danny?
Rod stifles a laugh -- Shaking his head "no."
ROD
My roommate. We Can't wake him.
Eric starts giggling again.
So does Rod. Eric moves even
closer. They stop laughing.
ROD
You know I always liked you.
Rod brushes his fingers tenderly against Eric's face. Fric
Shudders.
ROD
(whisper)
You look so damn hot.
Pause. Fric smiles.
ERIC
(soft)
Then why aren't you kissing me?
Eric closes his eyes and leans forward. Their lips touch
Ui
--naked and on top
gives him a deep kiss,
half opens
, Stops, and Sighs
ERIC
Too loud?
Rod slowly shakes his head "no."
(CONTINUED)
114 CONTINUED: (2)
© What?
Rod smiles. Pause.
(slow)
ERIC
ROD
I wanna fuck you.
ERIC
(giggles)
What?
Can I fuck
Rod moans Slow.
Rod smiles.
It's easy.
Eric stares into Rod's
(grins)
Hold on,
Rod jumps up and qd
still asleep -- an
They're empty.
ROD
you?
Pause. Eric smiles Shyly.
ERIC
I don't know.
ROD
eyes. Pause.
ROD
isappears. Eric looks a
d notices the walls for
ROD
Mmmmm... tight little ass.
Pause.
ERIC
(whisper)
Eric smiles and nods.
t the roommate -—-
the first time.
(CONTINUED)
ee secant
CONTINUED: (3) 114
ERIC
Wait. (giggly whisper) What about a
rubber?
Rod stops, and smiles,
ROD
ROD (O.S.)
I hate these.
Rod grabs Fric's ankle and lifts his leg up into the air.
ROD
Remember. Breathe.
Close up on Eric's face. His eyes squint with pain.
ERIC
Ahhh...
ROD
Mmmmmm. .
Eric grits his teeth. Rod Starts to pump
ERIC
Rod.
ROD
Breathe
~ -_ CllUrT_ eT ary
—— —_—
© 115
116
117
80.
116
Eric pulls the Estate Wagon into the driveway. He shuts off
the headlights, gets out and closes the door quietly
He walks up the front steps.
INT. ERIC'S ENTRY/LIVING ROOM - EARLY MORNING 117
Eric tip-toes in the house.
BONNIE (O.S.)
Where were you?
Eric jumps.
Bonnie sits in darkness in the living room
recliner.
BONNIE
Answer me.
ERIC
Maggie and I...went to a party.
BONNIE
Where?
ERIC
At a friends' house.
BONNIE
Who's house?
ERIC
We took my car.
Bonnie looks down.
BONNIE
Eric. Something's going on.
(CONTINUED)
117
CONTINUED:
ERIC
What?
BONNIE
Your clothes. The make-up.
Eric touches his face -- immediately self-conscious.
ERIC
(shaken)
I just...want to be different.
BONNIE
But you don't have to look like a freak.
Bric turns his head. He is hurt. Bonnie notices.
BONNIE
Eric. (guilt) I'm sorry. I just don't
want people getting the wrong idea.
ERIC
What idea?
Pause.
BONNIE
They could think...
Bonnie hesitates.
ERIC
What?
BONNIE
They might think you're gay.
Eric stands up.
ERIC
Is that what you want to know?
Bonnie covers her mouth -- flustered.
ERIC
Well I'm not! (heads out of the room)
What the hell is wrong with you?!
She stares at him as he runs out of the house.
Shaking.
81.
117
Her hands are
82.
© 118 EXT. MAGGIE'S HOUSE - EARLY MORNING 118
Eric pulls up to Maggie's house, stares at it for a second,
and then drives away.
119 EXT. ANGIE'S HOUSE - ERARLY MORNING 119
Close-up of hand knocking on a door.
The door opens -- Angie, in a silk robe, does a double take.
ERIC
I didn't know where else to go.
120 INT. ANGIE'S HOUSE - FARLY MORNING 120
Eric sits on a couch in Angie's cozy living room. She enters
from the kitchen.
, ANGIE
I couldn't decide between coffee or
a nightcap.
She hands him a beer.
) r ANGIE
) The cocktail prevailed.
Eric is self-absorbed.
| ERIC
| I thought when I came out...it would all
get easier.
Angie stares at him for a second and swigs her beer.
ANGIE
You okay, baby?
ERIC
(Shakes head ‘“no”)
What is wrong with me?
She smiles slowly.
ANGIE
You're seventeen.
Eric looks up.
© ANGIE
It takes time. Just give yourself some
time.
(CONTINUED)
120
122
83.
CONTINUED: 120
Eric shakes his head, lost. She pulls him against her and
squeezes him tight.
INT. ERIC'S ENTRY - DAY 122
Andy runs up and greets Eric at the door.
ANDY
You've been gone forever! !
ERIC
Hey kiddo.
Andy pulls Eric over to the dining room table where Bonnie
Sits in front of a jigsaw puzzle.
ANDY
I'm almost done with my puzzle.
Bonnie looks up at Fric.
ERIC
(to Bonnie, defensive)
I was over at Maggie's. Call her if
you don't believe me.
BONNIE
(to Andy)
Honey, can you go play upstairs?
ANDY
(to Eric)
Come on!
BONNIE
(to Andy)
He'll be up in a minute, Sweetie.
Andy runs off. Bonnie stares before speaking.
BONNIE
Eric. I am so sorry.
Pause.
BONNIE
I didn't mean what you think...it just...
it came out all wrong.
Eric looks down. He nods. Silent moment.
Bonnie hands him a box with a ribbon tied around it.
(CONTINUED)
122
123
124
@-:
126
127
84.
CONTINUED: 122
BONNIE
That enlargement finally came in.
Eric opens the box and pulls out a beautifully framed
enlargement of he and Maggie in their Crystal Shores
uniforms.
BONNIE
Saw the frame at the mall...you can
exchange it if you want.
Eric looks at the picture and smiles.
ERIC
No. It's nice. (looks up at Bonnie,
smiles) Thanks.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - DAY 123
Close-up of a nail hammered into the wall. Eric nods and Andy
carefully hang the Maggie picture next to the others. Fric
steps back, picks up Andy, and stares at Maggie's image.
OMIT 124
EXT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. - NIGHT 125
Eric stops at the traffic light in front of the Fruit and Nut
and watches several people walk in. The light turns green and
he drives away.
EXT. SHORELINE - DAY 126
Eric scribbles musical notes on his folder. He looks up at
Cedar Shores in the distance.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - NIGHT 1277
Eric stares at the clock -- 11:30 PM. He is dressed in a
Simple t-shirt and sweat pants, his hair flat.
Eric puts on his headphones. He presses play on the four-
track and listens -- the drum machine thumps, "Annie" starts
to gurgle. The song is upbeat and fun. Maggie's cello fades
in, but she stops.
Maggie laughs on the tape.
MAGGIE (0.S.)
(on the tape)
I screwed that up totally.
(CONTINUED)
127
128
85.
CONTINUED: 127
Eric rewinds the tape and listens to her laugh again. He
stares at the corner where her cello is propped against the
wall.
MAGGIE (0.S.)
(on the tape)
I screwed that up totally.
Eric stops the tape. He puts his fingers down on the keys
and plays.
The phone rings. He does not answer it.
From downstairs.
BONNIE (0.S.)
Eric...telephone.
Eric picks up.
ERIC
Hello.
ANGIE (0.S.)
Lovey. What the fuck?
ERIC
Hi.
ANGIE
Missed you last weekend. (background bar
noise) Coming Friday night? So to speak?
ERIC
I don't think I can. (pause) Family
stuff.
ANGIE
No problem. (pause) Listen -- if there's
anything we can do. (pause) We're here.
ERIC
Thanks.
ANGIE
Bye, Lovey.
ERIC
Bye.
Eric hangs up.
OMIT SCENES 128-133 128
© 133A INT. KOUNTRY KITCHEN - NIGHT
86.
Eric sits alone staring at his half-eaten Reeses Pieces
sundae.
He looks around the room, at his Swatch, then takes a
tentative bite of ice cream.
Maggie appears and sits across from him.
ERIC
(surprised)
Hey.
MAGGIE
sorry I'm late.
ERIC
Thanks for meeting me. (looks at sundae)
Still plenty left.
Awkward silence.
MAGGIE
How's the Fruit and Nut?
Eric looks away. Finally...
© ERIC
Pause.
Pause.
I don't belong there.
MAGGIE
What about that guy -- the one you were
dancing with?
ERIC
Magg...
MAGGIE
(interrupting)
Eric, why did you want to talk to me?
ERIC
I still want to go to New York. I want
you to come with me.
Maggie shakes her head.
(CONTINUED)
133A
Re Se
87.
133A CONTINUED: 133A
© MAGGIE
What is up with you? One minute you're
kissing some guy, then your asking me to
run off to New York.
ERIC
I can’t have what I want with a guy.
(pause) You're the only one who ever
really cared.
MAGGIE
(anger)
So then you turn around and burn me?
ERIC
I just needed to get that out of my
System. Those guysS were just sex.
MAGGIE
And what does that make me?
ERIC
I love you, Maggie.
She starts to cry.
! © MAGGIE
Sometimes I feel like some kind of
experiment.
Eric shakes his head "no."
ERIC
I never meant to hurt you. I’d give
anything to take it all back.
Long pause.
MAGGIE
Do you think, if you hadn’t been with
Rod, you’d have been with me?
Eric looks right into her, smiles and nods slowly.
ERIC
(whisper)
I’m lost without you, Maggie.
Maggie tries to smile. He wipes away her tears.
ERIC
© We can take it Slow.
© 134
137
138
139
88.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - NIGHT 134
Eric and Maggie sit on the bed. He puts his hand on her hip.
She pulls away and looks in his eyes.
MAGGIE
Are you sure?
Eric nods. She closes her eyes. Eric moves up to her lips.
They kiss.
Eric's hand slides over Maggie's breast. Then under her
shirt. They kiss deeply. She sighs and pulls away.
Maggie smiles shyly, takes off her shirt, and embraces hin.
Eric kisses her neck again as he works at her bra clasp. It
won't budge. She rolls her eyes, turns away, undoes her bra,
and faces him, her breasts exposed. She looks into his eyes.
Eric pulls off his shirt and presses against her skin.
FADE TO BLACK
INT. ERIC'S ENTRY - AFTERNOON 135
Bonnie buttons up her polyester work uniform and fixes her
hair in the mirror.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - AFTERNOON 136
Eric wakes. He turns and looks at Maggie who sleeps
peacefully by his side.
INT. ERIC'S LIVING ROOM - AFTERNOON 137
Bonnie hums to herself as she gives the living room a quick
straighten.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - AFTERNOON 138
Eric lies Staring at the ceiling. His lip begins to Quiver.
He looks at Maggie, who is still asleep. He looks back at the
ceiling. Tears roll down his cheeks.
INT. ERIC'S LIVING ROOM - AFTERNOON 139
Bonnie continues to hum as she gives the room a final
inspection. She is straightening the coats when Eric’s falls
onto the floor. A “Fruit and Nut” matchbook slips from the
pocket.
INT. ERIC'S BEDROOM - AFTERNOON 140
Eric cries Silently, his body shivering.
(CONTINUED)
140
89.
CONTINUED: 140
Maggie's eyes Open. She turns and sees him crying.
MAGGIE
Eric...
Pause.
MAGGIE
What's wrong?...,
Eric covers his mouth. He shakes his head. Maggie looks deep
into his eyes.
The door Opens -- Bonnie barges in -- sees Maggie -- freezes.
Maggie pulls the blanket over her, €xposing Eric.
BONNIE
(gasp)
Oh...
Bonnie runs out and slams the door.
MAGGIE
Oh my God...oh my God...
Maggie pulls her Shirt on.
ERIC
Magg...
She throws on her jeans.
MAGGIE
Oh my God.
She heads toward the door and turns to Eric,
MAGGIE
(low)
Get out of my life.
Maggie exits, slams the door, bumps right into Bonnie, and
runs down the steps.
(CONTINUED)
140
143
144
90.
CONTINUED: (2) 140
Bonnie sees her reflection in the mirror -- wearing her
polyester uniform. She Clutches her "Bonnie" name tag. Her
eyes fill with anger.
Bonnie throws open the door. Eric is pulling on shorts.
BONNIE
Why am I killing myself? you think I'm
having fun?! This it for you!! (unpins
name tag, rage) Just forget about New
York -- I fucking quit! !
She throws her name
tag at him. It barely misses his head and
hits the wall.
ERIC
Mom -- please -- my God...
She holds up the Fruit and Nut matchbook. Eric's mouth drops.
ERIC
I...I don't go anymore...
She stares him down.
BONNIE
(cold, low)
Tell me what the hell 1S going on.
Bonnie covers her mouth as Eric runs out and slams the door.
OMIT SCENES 141-142
141
EXT. WATERFRONT PARK - AFTERNOON 143
Eric hits the brakes and skids to a stop in the parking lot.
INT. ESTATE WAGON - AFTERNOON 144
Eric punches the steering wheel. The horn honks. The rear
view mirror falls onto his head.
ERIC
Fuck!!!
He throws the mirror out o
f the car and it smashes on the
concrete. Broken glass gle
ams in the sun.
DISSOLVE To:
91.
© 145) ExT. WATERFRONT PARK - LATR AFTERNOON 145
Eric leans against the Car, staring out over the water.
DISSOLVE To:
146 ExT, WATERFRONT PARK - EARLY EVENING 146
Eric stares at Crystal Shores across the bay. A seagull lands
at his feet searching for food.
DISSOLVE To:
147) ExT, WATERFRONT PARK — SUNSET 147
purple, Something Catches his eye. He turns and sees Angie
walking with go ANN, 39, a very attractive and feminine req
head. Eric Starts toward them but Stops, leans back against
his car and watches from afar.
Angie looks around, sees that the coast is Clear, and lightly
kisses Jo Ann's lips.
A warm smile Spreads across Eric's face.
DISSOLVE To:
148) ExT, ERIC'S HOUSE - EVENING 148
drive -~ Ron Stops and rolls the window down
RON
Hey
ERIC
Hi.
RON
© We're going to a movie. Wanna come?
(CONTINUED)
148
6.
92.
CONTINUED: 148
ERIC
Thanks. I don't think so.
RON
I think your Mom had a bad day.
(pause) Might wanna steer clear.
Eric looks down.
ERIC
Okay. Thanks.
Ron looks into his son's eyes. Ron studies hin.
RON
Forget your shoes?
Eric looks down and shakes his head.
RON
Take it easy.
Eric nods. Ron pulls out and honks as he drives off.
Eric slowly walks up the porch steps. He hears a piano
playing.
INT. ERIC'S ENTRY/LIVING ROOM - EVENING 149
When he opens his eyes, they are filled with tears. He wipes
them and takes a deep breath.
ERIC
Mom.
Bonnie jumps -- screwing up. She stops. Her back is to him.
BONNIE
I didn't hear you.
Long silence.
ERIC
It's been so long since you played.
Bonnie nods Slowly.
(CONTINUED)
93.
149 CONTINUED: 149
rd ERIC
I've been sitting around all day --
trying to decide whether to tell you it
was just a phase...
Pause.
ERIC
--Or to tell you the truth.
A truck passes outside, rattling the windows.
ERIC
Mom. Please. (pause) Look at me.
She does not move.
ERIC
I'm gay.
Stillness. Bonnie Slowly turns on the Piano stool. Tears run
down her eyes.
She nods slowly.
|
|
|
|
© BONNIE
(breathless)
IT...know.
|
|
|
Eric's lip quivers, he begins to weep. She rises and takes
him into her arms.
BONNIE
(barely audible)
Little boy. What did I do wrong?
Eric shakes his head.
ERIC
Nothing. It's just who I am.
They hold each other.
ERIC
I tried so hard not to be. (shaking)
I drove Maggie away.
Bonnie presses tighter against him.
© I kept trying to look the other way.
BONNIE
Eric's tears wet her polyester uniform.
|
|
|
| (CONTINUED)
:
Pee ee tt
149
150
151
152
94,
CONTINUED: (2) 149
ANDY (0O.S.)
Mom.
Bonnie looks up at Andy Standing at the top of the stairs.
ANDY
My tummy hurts.
Bonnie pulls away from Eric.
BONNIE
(fake / chipper)
Go on back. Be right there.
Andy disappears. Bonnie starts up the stairs but stops.
BONNIE
I don't know how to handle it.
She starts up again.
ERIC
Mom.
She stops and looks at him.
ERIC
I love you.
Bonnie's tears come again. She smiles through then, nods, and
continues up the stairs.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL HALLWAY - DAy 150
Eric watches Maggie put books in her locker. She glances
Over, sees him, pauses, looks away, Closes her locker and
heads away down the hall.
INT. ERIC'S BATHROOM - NIGHT 151
Steam fills the room. Fric lets the hot water flow Over him.
CUT TO:
A steam covered mirror. Eric wipes it off to reveal himself.
His hair is spiked and he's dressed at the height of
Salvation Army fashion.
EXT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. PARKING LOT - NIGHT 152
Eric gets out of his car. The parking lot is packed. He sees
Gregg's steamed-up car -- and smiles.
95.
© 153. INT. UNIVERSAL FRUIT AND NUT CO. - NIGHT 153
Eric enters. He looks at the stage, where an ENORMOUS DRAG
QUEEN is making her curtain call. Everyone is clapping.
Excitement fills the place...motion, laughter. Eric takes an
empty seat at the bar. The BARTENDER sets a "Fruit and Nut"
napkin in front of him.
BARTENDER
Fuzzy navel, coming right up.
Eric smiles. Angie walks on stage holding a microphone. She's
wearing a tuxedo.
ANGIE
Another round of applause for...Miss
Obeastra Heiferstein!
Obeastra curtsies.
ANGIE
Thank you, Obeastra. Attractive garment.
The applause dies down and, Obeastra disappears backstage.
© Angie adjusts the mike.
ANGIE
I’‘d just like to do a little number for
all you Fruit and Nutters..
She spots Eric in the crowd.
ANGLE
...and I’d like to dedicate this one to
my good friend, Eric.
Applause. Eric smiles and jostles for a better view.
The lights dim, followed by the opening strains of the full
orchestral version of "The Theme to the Valley of the Dolls."
Angie takes a deep breath and starts to Sing.
ANGIE
Gotta get off, gonna get
Out of this merry-go-round
Gotta get on, gonna get
Need to get on where I'm bound
Her voice is fabulous. Chuckie and Foodtown spot Eric,
©} shriek, and wave him over.
(CONTINUED)
153
96.
CONTINUED: 153
FOODTOWN
Missed you, baby.
Chuckie gives him a hug.
CHUCKIE
Welcome home.
Eric smiles and turns back to the stage.
ANGIE
When did I get
Where did I
Why am I lost as a lamb
When will I know
Where will I
How will I learn how I am
Eric is glowing. A COUNTRY DYKE hands Angie a dollar tip.
ANGIE
Is this a dream
Am I here
Where are you
Tell me when will I know
How will I know
When will I know...
Why?
Angie ends with a bang and the bar goes wild. Eric rushes the
stage and wraps his arms around her. The Ladies run up and
envelop them in a group hug.
JONOTHON (0.S.)
Eric?
Eric turns -- Jonothon stands in front of him wearing an
Annie Lennox t-shirt and looking gorgeous.
JONOTHON
There you are.
A smile spreads across Eric's face. He grabs Jonothon’s hand
and gives hima big kiss.
FREEZE FRAME
FADE TO BLACK
THE END.
