A FINE LINE

By

Courtney Brandt

First Draft Courtney Brandt

2.25.2008 268 Shire Way
WGA #123456 Lawrenceville GA 30044
c 2008
 1.

EXT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - DAY

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

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

CUT TO:

Credit sequence. Band camp is condensed into a montage. In a

yearbook / still photo style (The Break Up / Sahara / Can't
Hardly Wait) clips show the entire marching band working hard,
but playing hard as well. We're introduced to Lucy's inner
circle of friends and it's obvious she's a well liked normal
member of the senior class at Forrest Hills HS. From the
soundtrack, the audience should understand the halftime show
is Big Band music (Glen Miller, Benny Goodman, etc.).

FLASH TO:

EXT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - DAY

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

LUCY
What the f---?

Lucy's expletive is cut off by an off screen cymbal crash.

Incensed by the gaping hole in her drum, she picks up the
football and interrupts the team by walking into the middle of
their practice.

LUCY
Who put a hole in my drum head?

The jocks, who easily weigh double our protagonist, shift

uncomfortably, until the crowd parts and reveals WES
MALLINSON, a Beckham lookalike from the same country.

WES
(unexpectedly, his accent
is a charming British one)
I'm terribly sorry.

LUCY
 2.

I'm sure you are.

WES
If I could just help you--

LUCY
Thanks, but you've done more than
enough already.

Lucy chucks the ball, expertly directing it at Wes's crotch,

and walks back towards her drum, amidst catcalls,
inappropriate comments, and whistles from the jocks.

WES
Who was that?

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

Wes's eyes follow Lucy as she walks away.

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

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

MANDY
So, why were you late today, Luce?
Not setting a very good example for
the freshman, are we?

LUCY
I would have been there, had it not
been for some lame-ass jock who
decided my bass drum made good
target practice.

GINA
What did he look like?

LUCY
(shrugs)
I don't know. Kind of tall, he was
the kicker, I think.

GINA
The new guy put a hole in your
drum?

LUCY
School only started yesterday, how
could you already know about a
 3.

'new' guy?

MANDY
The whole school knows about him.

LUCY
Well, obviously not everyone. What
makes him so special?

GINA
Uhh... He's British?

LUCY
And all British people are special?

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

GINA
You know, maybe you should like,
ask him for some sort of
retribution.

LUCY
Like what? Money for a new bass
drum head? My time back?

GINA
I don't know, a date?

LUCY
You have got to be kidding me. This
is the real world, Gina. Drum line
girls like me do not interact with
jocks like him. Not to mention,
hello? Remember Sam?

GINA
I thought you two broke up.

LUCY
Not officially. I mean, even
though he's a few hundred miles
away, I'm not going to run around
cheating on him at the first
hypothetical chance I get.

CUT TO:

INT. LUCY'S BEDROOM (NIGHT)

 4.

Lucy, still in her practice clothes from earlier, is on a

laptop talking via video chat with SAM, her boyfriend, a
college freshman. He's quite obviously sitting in a dorm
room. Both rooms can help with subtle character development
(what bands they like, if they are messy or clean, etc.).

LUCY
So, you had a good practice?

SAM
Yeah, it's, well, I've said it
before, college amrching band is
very different from being on a high
school Line. So, is your senior
year off to a good start?

LUCY
(pauses)
Oh, fine. You know, nothing
special.

O.S.

There is some loud pounding on Sam's door, accompanied by a

few female voices.

LUCY
Sounds like your fan club is back.

SAM
I told you it's not like that...

LUCY
I know, I mean, if your were on my
hall... Anyway, I've got a ton of
AP Bio to work on, go have some
unsupervised fun.

SAM
Love you, Luce.

LUCY
Love you too.

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

INT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - CAFETERIA

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

LUCY
 5.

If you guys tell me there's a shark

behind me, I'm going to be very
upset.

There is no response from her section.

LUCY
Seriously, guys?

TOM
I think someone wants to apologize.

Lucy turns around and looks up.

WES
(holding a giant bouquet
of daisies and thrusts
them towards her)
Umm, I'm really sorry about
yesterday.

LUCY
(looks at the flowers
distastefully)
Are you mental? Look, dude, what
do you think this is? Some sort of
lame American sitcom, where, where
-- ?

She sneezes violently, half crashing into Wes.

WES
God bless you?

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

LUCY
(eyes watering)
I'b sebiously allergmic to daisies.
Danks for nobing.

In a huff, she leaves the table, leaving a defeated and

speechless Wes in the middle of the drummers. TOM, Lucy's
best friend, feels sorry for the new student and stands up
to help him.

TOM
(leading him away from the
snickering drummers)
Let me tell you where you went
wrong.
 6.

WES
I... I thought I was being nice.

TOM
You were. Lucy is a bit... Well,
she's nice once you get to know her
and I'm sure deep down, she
appreciates the effort. Maybe
there's something else you can do
to apologize.

INT. HOUSE - KARATE RESIDENCE

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

LUCY
Yeah, Gina, I'll be fine - I mean,
I'm glad my mom gave me the day
off. I'll get caught up on
applications and all that.
(she listens to a
response)
Yeah, yeah, I'll definitely be at
the game tonight. I'm just going to
crash for a few minutes - I think I
may have gone a bit too heavy on
the Benadryl earlier. Later.

Lucy throws the phone in a nearby chair, strips off her

flannel pants and turns off the light, instantly passing
out.

EXT. HOUSE - KARATE RESIDENCE

Wes stands at the front door, books in one hand, about to

tap on the wood paneling. He puts his hand down, takes a
deep breath and finally knocks. The door unlocks to reveal
CRAIG KARATE, Lucy's ten-year-old younger brother. He
squints up at the much taller young man.

CRAIG
What do you want?

WES
Oh, hello there. I'm here to see
your sister - I brought her school
assignments.

CRAIG
(arms crossed)
You're not a drummer.

WES
 7.

No, I play football.

CRAIG
Like, soccer?

WES
Like both, actually. My first game
is tonight.

Craig weighs this information.

CRAIG
What position?

WES
I'm a striker, but since your
seasons are a bit backwards here, I
won't get to play real football
until the fall. For now, I'm the
kicker.

This answer appears to placate Craig.

CRAIG
She's upstairs.

Wes follows Craig inside. The younger Karate beelines back

towards his gaming system, leaving Wes awkwardly by himself.
The footballer walks upstairs, taking note of pictures of
Lucy at various formal dances (one should include Sam) and
in her band uniform which hang on the wall.

He pauses at a door, clearly Lucy's based on its graffiti,

posters, and stickers, and hesitates like he did at her
front door.

WES
(to himself)
What am I worried about? Kick off
is in two hours. This should be
nothing...

Opening the door, he sees no one, but hears Lucy breathing

peacefully, passed out on her bed. He quietly puts her
assignments down and moves to leave, but steals another look
and inexplicably moves closer to his classmate.

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

then...

LUCY
What the HELL are you DOING IN MY
ROOM???
 8.

Wes backs up slowly, half stumbling over a chair, ending up on

his back. He puts his hands up defensively.

WES
You see...your brother let me in...

LUCY
To what? Take advantage of me?

WES
Look, I feel terrible about
yesterday and the day before that.
I brought your assignments.

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

LUCY
Fine. Whatever gets you out of my
life. Now, be a good lad and turn
around so I can get dressed for the
game.

WES
(channeling his best Hugh
Grant shuffles to a
standing position, while
at the same time tries to
catch her reflection in
the mirror)
I um, well, I can see that you're
busy... Anyway, I promise I won't
bug you any more.

Part cyclone, part Holly Golightly, Lucy whirls around her

room, gathering up parts of her uniform that are strewn
about in random places.

WES
(realizing she hasn't been
listening)
So, I'll just be going.

LUCY
It was here somewhere...
(she gets down on all
fours and peers under the
bed)
Aha!
(she triumphantly holds a
Drillmaster aloft)
Time to get to the game.
 9.

WES
(unable to leave)
What's all this for?

LUCY
Well, I don't know what happens in
the U.K., but here in the States,
after you guys pass, punt, or
whatever your way to victory, then
we come on the field and the real
show starts.

WES
Oh?

LUCY
Have you never seen a halftime
show?

WES
No.

LUCY
Well, that's your fault then.
Anyway, you're going to miss it by
being in the locker room.

She stuffs everything in a ratty duffel bag, grabs her

uniform bag, Shako box, and takes a quick peek in the
mirror, randomly doing her hair.

LUCY
(cont'd)
I'm going to be late for warm ups,
so you'd better leave. And, by the
way, I never want to see you again.

Satisfied with the image in the mirror, Lucy leaves the

room. Wes follows speechless and bewildered in her wake.

EXT. HOUSE - KARATE RESIDENCE

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

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

LUCY
(leans out the window)
Do you mind?

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

 10.

he quickly puts the car in reverse, stomps the accelerator,

and sends the automobile directly into the Karate's brick
mailbox. The sound of metal and brick meeting is not a pretty
one.

CUT TO:

INT. WES'S CAR

WES
Bollocks.

Lucy, the anger easily apparent on her face, taps on the

window, which he reluctantly lowers.

LUCY
Did I do something to you in a
former life?

INT. LUCY'S CAR (SAME NIGHT)

Lucy drives recklessly through the suburbs. Her passenger,

freshman red head and one of the other drum line girls,
BRONWYN FLUEGER, can only sit and listen as the driver
rants.

LUCY
He is such a jerk!

BRONWYN
Who?

LUCY
So, I'm all asleep and then
suddenly there's this guy in my
room and he's all, 'I'm Wesley
Mallinson III, so charming to meet
you.'

BRONWYN
(giggles at Lucy's
atrocious British accent)
Did he really say that?

LUCY
No, and when I finally managed to
get him out of the house, he backed
into my mailbox! Then my mom shows
up, and you know what she decides
to do?

BRONWYN
What?
 11.

LUCY
She decides the best idea will be
for him to work off the damages AT
MY HOUSE. He's like a disease I
can't get rid of.
(pauses for air)
Anyway, what about you? I'm sorry,
I'm probably wrecking the magic of
your first game. Are you ready?

BRONWYN
I think so. I mean, I am a little
nervous...

LUCY
Don't worry - you'll be fine.

The girls pull into the school's parking lot.

CUT TO:

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

From Bronwyn's perspective, we walk into the crowded band

room, and shades of Rose seeing the Titanic for the first
time, the audience gets a band room in full swing before a
Friday night home game. The room is littered with secret
pal gifts, candy, and uniforms. The Guard girls carefully
apply make-up, people noodle on instruments, and various
music plays from stereos creating a cacophony of teenage
banditude. Could be switched up to Zack Snyder '300' style.

We continue on Bronwyn's POV which looks towards the

percussion room, the VIP section, members-only enclave where
the drummers (and some of the groupies) hang out pre-game.
She watches as Lucy is greeted by the upperclassmen.

TOM
Can I borrow her for a few minutes?

The tenor players winks, and Lucy and Tom disappear from
sight.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM - DUSK

Montage / music video style as band marches down to the

field and plays through the National Anthem. As Lucy
shuffles up to the stands with her bass drum and looks
across to where the football players are warming up,
singling out one particular player in particular.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM - NIGHT

 12.

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

GINA
First game of our senior year.

MANDY
It's weird, I never thought we
would get here.

LUCY
(grumbles)
Hopefully, we'll survive the
season.

GINA
What's got you in such an
optimistic mood?

They pause and watch as Wes successfully kicks a field goal.

The ball sails through the uprights and the crowd cheers
enthusiastically.

ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
From across the pond, let's give a
round of applause for newcomer Wes
Mallinson for his first Forrest
Hills field goal.

The crowd continues their applause.

LUCY
Actually, it's that guy.

MANDY
You saw him again?

LUCY
Yeah, Prince Charming out there
decided to wake me up today.

GINA
That guy was in YOUR ROOM?!

Other members of the marching band look up with interest,

while Lucy rolls her eyes.

LUCY
Unfortunately, yes.

MANDY
 13.

So, what does Sam think of your

stalker?

LUCY
Oh, um, he's cool with it. So, it
looks like it's the end of the
quarter, I'd better get back to the
Line.

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

INT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE - DAY

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

LUCY
So, Mom?

BECKY
Yes, honey?

LUCY
Maybe it would've been nice if you
asked me yesterday about Wes.

BECKY
What do you mean?

LUCY
Well, for all you know he could've
been some crazy psycho who doesn't
even go to my school.

BECKY
That's ridiculous - I recognized
him from the paper - they did an
article on him last week.

LUCY
And so that makes him okay for him
to become our indentured servant?

BECKY
I figured with his citizenship and
being on the football team, he
wouldn't have time to work legally.
Plus, it will be an excellent
lesson in integrity for Craig.

LUCY
 14.

(stabs her yogurt cup)

Hmph.

BECKY
I don't see what you're getting so
bothered about anyway. You don't
have to see him.

LUCY
(mutters something under
her breath)
Fine.

BECKY
(folds the newspaper and
stands)
If you want to avoid Wes, be sure
and find something to do tomorrow
afternoon.

LUCY
Thanks for the advice.

INT. LUCY'S ROOM - NIGHT

Lucy is chatting with Sam on video chat. Based on the amount

of wrappers, notebooks, and time on the clock, it's obvious
they've been chatting for awhile.

SAM
...So, I've been thinking about
what we said when I left for
school.

LUCY
What's that?

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

LUCY
I know.

SAM
(sighs loudly)
I don't know, I'm not sure if the
whole long distance thing is really
working out like we thought it
would.

LUCY
You're...you're right. I'm not
 15.

sure either.

SAM
I mean, it's not someone else.

LUCY
(too quickly)
Me either.

SAM
I don't think it's fair to either
of us...to go on like this.

LUCY
You're right.

SAM
You know I'll always love you,
right Lucy?

LUCY
Of course.

SAM
(chuckling)
And of course, dating any girl
after you is going to be a lot
tamer than what I'm used to.

LUCY
Hey now, you were worth all of it.
You know that.
(yawning)
Oh... Crap, but yeah, I'm actually
kind of tired.

SAM
So, it's okay?

LUCY
I think so. Good night, Sam.

SAM
Sweet dreams, Luce.

FADE OUT:

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE

Lucy sits on a porch swing, in tears. Wes, doing his

penance, shuts off the lawn mower and comes around the
corner - sweaty, shirtless, channeling his inner Zac Efron.
 16.

LUCY
(wiping her nose loudly)
You always seem to catch me at my
best, don't you?

WES
(sits down next to her,
keeping his space)
Are you taking Man U's loss as hard
as I am?

LUCY
(gives him a watery smile)
No.

WES
What's wrong then?

LUCY
Why do you care?

WES
Fine, I can't seem to win with you.

He makes a move to leave.

LUCY
Don't. I'm sorry. It's just, I
broke up with my boyfriend last
night, er, this morning...

WES
Bugger.

LUCY
You ain't kidding.

WES
The bloke from the pictures?

LUCY
(nods)
You would think, even though I knew
this day was coming, it wouldn't be
so bad, but it still sucks.

They swing quietly for a moment.

LUCY
(cont'd)
I'm just surprised neither of us
fought harder for it. I mean,
 17.

we're both pretty strong willed

people...

WES
Sometimes relationships just end.
It happens. It's no one's fault.

A beat.

LUCY
Sounds like you're speaking from
experience. Did you leave someone
in the UK?

WES
I wish.

LUCY
Oh... Your parents?

WES
Yeah. It happened a few years
back, but I've had to accept it.

LUCY
And here I am bitching about some
year long high school thing.

WES
No, I mean, you have a right to be
sad.

LUCY
So, really, you didn't leave anyone
at home?

WES
I know this might be difficult to
believe, but it's a little
different over there.

LUCY
How so?

WES
For starters, I went to an all boys
school.

LUCY
Poor guy.

WES
Yeah, so, it's been a bit of an
 18.

adjustment.

LUCY
Well, I don't think you have to
worry. I'm pretty sure there are
plenty of girls who would like to
show you around.

Of course, there's only one girl he wants to show him around,

and she's sitting right next to him.

WES
Yeah...

LUCY
Okay, time for me to go for
reinforcements. Mandy. Gina. Ben.
Jerry.

Lucy stands up and Wes awkwardly joins her.

LUCY
Umm, so thanks for listening.
You're not the jock I thought you
were.

WES
Thanks, I guess. Anyway, you'll be
all right.

Forgetting he isn't wearing a shirt, Wes wraps Lucy in a

rather intimate hug, which goes a beat longer than it should.

INT. THRIFT STORE - DAY

Lucy and Tom work their way through an eclectic thrift

store, occaisionally pulling clothes from the racks.

TOM
So, you're officially on the
market?

LUCY
It's not like that, but yes, I
guess I'm officially single.
Anyway, I survived seventeen years
without Wes in my life, so I'm
pretty sure I'll be okay.

TOM
(raises his eyebrows)
Wes? Don't you mean Sam?
 19.

LUCY
That's what I said.

TOM
(wisely ignoring the
Freudian slip)
How about this one?

He holds up a particularly offensive dress.

LUCY
I like the one from the video
better.

They continue walking.

LUCY
(cont'd)
Enough about me, what about you?
How long has it been since you
dated someone?

TOM
You don't need to worry about me.

LUCY
Really? Whatever happened with you
and that sophomore flute player
from band camp?

TOM
Nothing. Anyway, dating band
members is starting to feel, I
don't know, incestuous. I think it
might be time for a change.

LUCY
Whatever floats your boat.

TOM
Seriously, on to more important
matters. How exactly we're
planning to get these on the field?

LUCY
When we're lining up backfield, I
thought we would just take off our
uniforms.

TOM
(grins and nods)
Stripping? Perfect! This is going
to be the best senior prank ever.
 20.

Lucy pulls a dress out of a rack.

LUCY
Sweet - this is it!

TOM
They aren't going to know what hit
them on Friday night.

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE (SAME DAY)

Lucy jumps out of Tom's minivan. Wes is in the front yard,

trimming the hedges. He stops and looks up as Lucy comes up
the path - a shopping bag in her arms.

WES
What's in the bag?

LUCY
None of your business.

WES
Something going on with you and
Tom?

LUCY
Also, none of your business.

WES
When will it be my business?

LUCY
(flirtatiously)
When I decide it will.

WES
How can I help my cause, fair lady?

LUCY
(considers)
Prove that you want to learn
something more about me, then we'll
talk.

WES
Can you give me a hint?

LUCY
You seem like a smart enough guy,
I'm sure you'll figure something
out eventually.
 21.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM - BACKFIELD

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

BILLY
What in the hell are you guys
doing?

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

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

Positioned close to midfield, Lucy does a double take as she

recognizes a familiar uniformed figure on the track - it's
Wes! He's skipped the halftime locker room session to watch
the show.

Their unscheduled dance is an instant hit with the crowd, who

responds accordingly. As the song comes to an end, Tom dips
Lucy dramatically and then they scramble to put their drums
back on and get back in formation.

LUCY
(panting)
I can't believe we did that.

TOM
Neither can I. Izzo's going to
kill us.

Somehow they manage to finish the show. As Fred brings his

hands down, while still on the field, the rest of the Line
instantly erupts into conversation about their section mates
prank.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM - BAND SECTION

MR. IZZO, the band director, paces back and forth in front
of the seniors, both with anxious expressions on their
faces.

MR. IZZO
Would either of you two like to
tell me what that was back there?
 22.

TOM
We thought we could improve the
show.

LUCY
(elbowing Tom sharply)
It was just the one time, sir.
Some sort of misguided senior
prank.

MR. IZZO
I wish you would've come to me
first.

TOM
Why?

MR. IZZO
I actually think it's a great idea.
We could've done more to
incorporate it into the show.
(pauses)
Now, I should probably give you
both detention...

TOM
But--

MR. IZZO
Let me finish. I think it could be
a nice addition. I know a lot of
marching bands have done the whole
Big Band thing before, but I think
your choreography adds something
extra. Let's break it down next
Tuesday and see how we can
permanently add it. What do you
say?

LUCY
(before Tom can say
anything stupid)
We'd be happy to.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM

The football team comes out of the locker room appropriately

pumped for the second half. Wes stands awkwardly and isn't
surprised when the Coach approaches him.

COACH
Would you like to explain where in
the hell you've been for the past
 23.

half hour?

WES
Not really.

COACH
(taken back)
I don't know how things are done
where you come from, but on this
side of the pond we have a little
thing called discipline. You're
going to pay for this little stunt
on Monday. I hope it was worth it.

WES
(looks across to the band
section)
Yes, sir.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM - BAND SECTION

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

GINA
When did you put that together?

LUCY
Actually, Tom took a swing class
over the summer. When we started
learning the show, it was just a
crazy idea. We've been practicing
for about two weeks.

MANDY
What did Izzo say?

LUCY
That's the weird thing - he loved
it and wants to use it permanently
in the show.

MANDY
That's awesome!

LUCY
(motions to her swing
dress)
All I know is, I finally get to ear
something besides polyester!

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE

Lucy goes out to her car to dig out something and bumps into
 24.

Wes in the garage.

LUCY
Good morning.

WES
Congratulations on a great show.

LUCY
Thanks...

The conversation stalls as Lucy isn't sure what to say about

his appearance last night. He pulls gloves on and moves the
lawn mower outside.

LUCY
I'm sorry. I should tell you I
appreciate your support. What did
you think?

WES
It was...well, it was pretty
amazing. However, I didn't think
there would be...dancing.

LUCY
Yeah, that was kind of a late
addition by Tom and me.

WES
You guys were good.

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

LUCY
I have to take this.
(pauses)
Thanks again for being there.

EXT. MARCHING BAND PRACTICE FIELD - DAY

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

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

LUCY
(whispering to Gina)
I know he is NOT going to pass this
off as his own.
 25.

MR. IZZO
I didn't tell all of you, because I
wasn't sure I wanted to go forward
with things. However, based on the
crowd's reaction, I decided to
officially incorporate the
choreography into the halftime
show.

The marching band erupts into appropriate applause.

MR. IZZO
Furthermore, I'd also like to
announce that I have formally
accepted our attendance to the
State marching festival. As some
of you seniors will remember, this
trip is only reserved for our most
competitive years. As you seniors
are also aware, this will be an
overnight trip. We'll be passing
out permission slips and
information after practice today.

An even larger cheer comes from the crowd.

MR. IZZO
This is our chance to make some
people notice. Alright,
sectionals. Captains, please run
the closer. We've got a lot of
practicing ahead of us.

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

TOM
No pressure on us, right?

LUCY
None.

TOM
So, I was thinking we could do a
few things to improve our part.

LUCY
What did you have in mind?

EXT. MARCHING BAND PRACTICE FIELD - DAY

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

 26.

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

LUCY
Yeah, yeah, I'm fine.

Tom gives her a hand to get up, which she begrudgingly

accepts.

LUCY
Owww...

MR. IZZO
Everyone take five. Someone go get
her some ice.

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

J.D.
Who's got $10 the size of the
bruise tomorrow is as big as a
trumpet horn?

Lucy shoots him a murderous look.

J.D.
You get 10%.

LUCY
I'll allow it.

Their classmates start shouting out bets.

INT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - HALLWAY

Lucy and JEWEL, an attractive member of the cheerleading squad

(in uniform), walk out of a classroom talking.

LUCY
How'd you do on the quiz?

JEWEL
Decent. How about you?

LUCY
Okay, I think.

JEWEL
Hey - I wanted to tell you, the
show looks great this year - plus,
great routine!
 27.

LUCY
Really? Uh, thanks?

JEWEL
I've always wanted to learn how to
swing dance.

LUCY
Well, it was mostly Tom's idea. I
mean, he took lessons this summer
and everything.

JEWEL
(interested)
Really?

LUCY
(picking up on the
subtlety)
I'm sure I could get him to teach
you - you know, if you wanted.

JEWEL
Do you think it will be a big deal?

LUCY
Not at all, let me talk to him and
maybe I can introduce you guys
after some practice soon. Sound
good?

JEWEL
Thanks!

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

TOM
How's your ass?

LUCY
Bruised and swollen, no thanks to
you.

TOM
You're welcome.

Lucy slams her locker door shut and they continue walking
together.

LUCY
So, you know Jewel?
 28.

TOM
Branscombe?

LUCY
Yup. Funny thing came up in
conversation.

TOM
What's that?

LUCY
You. Interested?

TOM
Maybe.

LUCY
Maybe I can introduce the two of
you.

TOM
Maybe I'm perfectly capable of
asking out girls on my own, thank
you.

LUCY
Just trying to be a friend.

TOM
Anyone you want me to return the
favor with?

We see Lucy look across the hall to where Wes is standing with
some of the jocks from the football team. She shakes her head
violently.

LUCY
(bluffing wildly)
Actually, yes. I'm looking for
someone to set Molly up with.

TOM
How about Wes?

LUCY
(her voice pitches higher)
Really? You think so?

TOM
Is there someone else you think
he'd look good with?

LUCY
 29.

What? No.

TOM
(giving her a not so
gentle push)
Then what are you waiting for? you
guys are friends now, right?

LUCY
(grumbling to herself)
Fine.

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

LUCY
So... I was wondering if I could
set you up on a blind date.

WES
Explain.

LUCY
Well, um, since I haven't been the
nicest to you, I thought the least
I could do is find you an amazing
girl at this school.

WES
That sounds...nice.

LUCY
(attempts an awkward
salute)
Well, I'm going to get started
then.

EXT. FORREST HILLS PRACTICE FIELD

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

LUCY
(laughing)
Remember that time we almost ran
over Nick with this thing freshman
year?

MOLLY
He almost died. Wow, we didn't
know anything back then, did we?

LUCY
 30.

Some days I'm not sure if I've

learned anything from then or not.

MOLLY
Is this because of things with Sam?

LUCY
No, surprisingly, I'm okay.
Anyway, how are things with you?
Any guys in your life?

MOLLY
Besides the 30 or so we're
surrounded by? None specifically.

LUCY
How about a set up?

Molly continues to push the giant instrument along.

MOLLY
Who do you possibly know that I
don't know?

LUCY
Hey - this is Lucy Karate you're
talking to. I'm allowed to have
surprises.

MOLLY
Fine, as long as it's not Tom, I'm
willing to take a chance.

INT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE

Lucy is studying at the kitchen table.

BECKY
That car is not going to clean
itself.

Lucy closes her book in frustration and stands up.

LUCY
I told you, Mom, my car has a name
and that name is Matt Damon.

BECKY
Well, Mr. Damon had better be
cleaned inside and out, or he will
be parked in the driveway for the
next two weekends. Am I clear?
 31.

LUCY
(grabs her keys)
Yes, Mom.

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE

Lucy, clad in a bikini top and shorts, dances around to

whatever song is blasting from her iPod while she hurls a
collection of papers, music, and other random junk from the
backseat of the car into a big pile on the nearby grass.

Wes, finishing some gardening task, comes around the corner

and smiles when he sees Lucy, lost in the music. He begins
walking towards her.

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

Wes is utterly stunned while Lucy whoops with laughter. Her

giggles are short lived, however, as Wes retaliates by picking
up the nearby bucket of soapy water and chucking it on her -
landing a direct hit and leaving Lucy speechless - but only
for a moment. She squirts back and they begin chasing each
other around the car.

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

The atmosphere instantly changes from innocent fun to revved

up sexual tension. Wes holds her close, slowly moves a
dripping piece of hair from her eyes and lowers his head...

CRAIG
Wes!!

Wes and Lucy spring apart.

CRAIG
(oblivious to what he has
interrupted)
My mom wanted to know if you wanted
some lemonade.

WES
That would be nice...
(he turns to ask Lucy)
Do you want some?

Lucy has disappeared, unable to cope with what almost

happened.

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSEHOLD

 32.

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

INT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

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

WES
Yes?

LUCY
I was just going to tell you about
your blind date on Saturday.

WES
Really?

CUT TO:

Dream sequence of some completely magical date with a

mystery girl who looks suspiciously like Lucy and Wes.

CUT TO:

Back to the hallway.

LUCY
So, that's the plan. I'll tell her
you'll pick her up at 7?

WES
(distracted)
Sounds good.

LUCY
Maybe I can hear all about it when
you come over to rake leaves on
Sunday?

She walks away before he has a chance to answer.

EXT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - STADIUM (NIGHT)

Lucy approaches Molly during one of the stands songs. They

squeeze in between two of the snare drummers.

LUCY
You ready for that blind date?
 33.

MOLLY
What's the rush?

LUCY
No reason, I just thought with
Homecoming around the corner, if
things work out, maybe you two
could go together. You know, if
things work out... Anyway, call me
on Sunday and let me know how it
goes.

Lucy pulls a camera out, and continues being

uncharacteristically and nervously chatty.

LUCY
Okay, time to lean in - I have like
zero pictures from our senior
season so far.

She snaps a few of Molly and nearby Billy, the drum line
Captain, then moves over to the tenor section, and sits down
next to Tom, but not before taking a picture of him playing
his instrument and making an appropriately goofy face.

TOM
Yes?

LUCY
What? Does a girl need a reason
to sit next to her favorite quint
player?

TOM
In your case, yes. What's up with
you?

LUCY
(defensively)
Nothing. Anyway, you would be
proud of me.

TOM
Why's that?

LUCY
Just call me Cupid.

TOM
I meant to tell you thank you, by
the way. I'm hanging out with
Jewel tomorrow night...
 34.

They look down at the track in front of the student section

while Jewel waves up shyly.

LUCY
Really?

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

LUCY
I'm not, I just...

TOM
What? A band geek and a
cheerleader? Don't get ahead of
yourself, we're only talking about
dinner. I'm fairly certain the
Homecoming Princess down there
doesn't know what she's getting
into with me.

LUCY
Well, you won't be the only couple
defying the conventions of high
school.

TOM
You and Wes?

LUCY
(looks at Tom strangely)
No. Molly and Wes are going out
tomorrow night.

TOM
Where does that leave you?

LUCY
(doesn't know how to
answer)
I'd better get back to my bass.

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE

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

LUCY
Oh, hey, I didn't see you there.
 35.

He raises an eyebrow, but sits down next to her as she laces

her shoes.

WES
You know, you should consider
selling your services to the lads
at Forrest hills - that was an
excellent date.

LUCY
(blushing)
Thanks.

Although she's desperate to know every detail of the date, she

refrains from asking.

LUCY
(lamely)
Well, I'm going for a run then.
See you around.

FLASH TO:

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

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

WES
That was fun, we should do it again
some time.

MOLLY
That sounds great.

Neither means what they are saying.

CUT TO:

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE

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

INT. COMMONS AREA

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

LUCY
Hey.

MOLLY
Hey - sorry I didn't call you back
 36.

yesterday.

LUCY
No worries. So?

MOLLY
It was...nice.

MARK
(interrupts)
Did you get some?

LUCY
Shut up, Mark.

MOLLY
He kissed me good night.

MARK
High five for getting some!

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

INT. SCHOOL BUS - DAY

Lucy sits next to Tom, reviewing pictures from the previous

week.

TOM
Went a little overboard, did we?

LUCY
Hey, we're halfway through our
senior season! I had to capture
some memories.

TOM
Hmm...

LUCY
What?

TOM
Look.

Lucy peers at the screen - it's a happy snapshot of Molly

and Billy.

LUCY
So what? We have one just like it.
 37.

TOM
This doesn't strike you as kind of
odd?

LUCY
I'm sure it's just flirting.

TOM
(gives her a skeptical
look)
Luce, we've been around these two
for four years. What if they do
actually like each other?

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

LUCY
(obviously changing the
subject)
Shouldn't you be running the show
with your section? We're competing
in a few hours.

TOM
Shouldn't you be doing the same
thing?

EXT. WARM UP AREA - MARCHING BAND COMPETITION

The members of the Forrest Hills band are in various stages of

warming up. The mood is completely different than the half
time show. Everyone has their game faces on. Tom and Lucy go
through their choreography. Their original uniforms have been
'upgraded' by some fanatical band parents with a Bedazzler.

LUCY
It was different at the games,
wasn't it?

TOM
Yup.

LUCY
We're going to do fine, right?

TOM
Would I let you down?

LUCY
Literally or figuratively?

LUCY
 38.

Very funny.

TOM
Seriously. Let's show these judges
what we can do. Just consider this
practice for the big competition in
a few weeks.

EXT. MARCHING COMPETITION

Montage / music video of highlights from the performance, and

the following and successful awards ceremony. It's Forrest
Hills for the win! Captions and Sweepstakes!

INT. BAND ROOM

The drummers sit quietly as they listen intently to judges

tapes with serious. The tape should sound authentic, as if it
was recorded from the field.

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

We hear the reaction of the crowd as Tom and Lucy go through

their intricate steps.

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

When the tape ends, Billy stands up.

BILLY
Alright guys, he's given us some
stuff to work on, so let's get to
it. Sectionals for the rest of
class. We've got the big
competition in two weeks and I know
we can win the High Percussion
trophy.

INT. FORREST HILLS - HALLWAY - SAME DAY

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

LUCY
 39.

So, how's it going?

WES
Good.

LUCY
So, I heard you were thinking of
going out with Molly again?

WES
Umm... I was considering it.

LUCY
Well, you know Homecoming is coming
up.

WES
(obviously has no clue
this is a major event on
the social calendar)
So?

LUCY
(beyond awkward)
Oh, I was merely commenting that it
is coming up. I just thought you
should know.

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

INT. CLASSROOM - CONT'D

Lucy, after her sad attempt at a normal conversation with Wes,

stumbles into a class she shares with Mandy and Gina. One
look on her face and her friends swarm her.

GINA
What gives, Luce?

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

LUCY
I used to think I knew what I was
doing.

Over Lucy's bowed head, the girls share a look. In a gesture

of affection, Mandy begins stroking her friend's hair.

MANDY
Are you talking about your giant
crush on Wes?
 40.

LUCY
(peeks up from hands)
Is it that obvious?

GINA
Look, I know we've been busy this
season with our sections, but I
don't think we'd be able to call
ourselves friends if we didn't
recognize you are carrying an
Olympic sized torch for the
football team's hottest player.

LUCY
But I've messed everything up!

GINA
How?

LUCY
I've kind of avoided mentioning
this to you - but I sort of set up
Molly and Wes.

MANDY
And why exactly would you do that?

LUCY
I honestly could not tell you.

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

GINA
Do you think she really likes him?

LUCY (V.O.)
Who wouldn't? What am I going to
do? Just go up to her and be all
'remember how I set you up on that
unbelievably romantic date? Yeah,
well, it so happens I really like
the guy I pushed you towards, so if
you could just be a buddy and not
date him anymore, that would be
great. By the way, while we're
having this fictional conversation,
can you give me your blessing to
date him, because I have a raging
crush that refuses to die!'

GINA
 41.

Okay, probably not the best

approach, but you should talk to
both of them...before you end up
totally resenting her...and him.

LUCY
I'll think about it.

Further discussion is halted as the late bell rings, and the

seniors settle into their seats.

MANDY
It'll work out. Anyway, remember
this weekend is the overnight
competition. Anything can happen.

(Insert funny and random dream sequence here??)

INT. LUCY'S CAR - DAY

Lucy is once again driving like a lunatic through the

streets of Forrest Hills.

LUCY
Of the days to be f---
(she beeps the horn to
sound out the expletive)
late!!!

INT. FORREST HILLS COMMONS AREA

The entire marching band is gathered at perfect attention

while their band director addresses them.

MR. IZZO
So, I know that later today we're
going against some of the best
bands in the region and the state,
but I don't think that should
affect our playing. I know we're
doing a show that many judges have
seen before, but the reason we're
going is because all the elements
of our version make it unique.
Concentrate on the notes, your
drill, and I think the Forrest
Hills High School marching band is
going to take a lot of people by
surprise!

Cheers sound through the Commons area - the band is ready to

make this day theirs.
 42.

MR. IZZO
One band!

ENTIRE BAND
ONE SOUND!!!

The group disperses enthusiastically towards the buses. Lucy

sneaks in as everyone leaves. She pairs up with Mandy and
Gina, catching up on what she's missed, when one of the band
parents approaches her.

MRS. WYATT
Lucy, dear, I need you for a
moment.

LUCY
See you girls on the bus.
(she turns her attention
to the adult in front of
her)
Yes?

MRS. WYATT
(her voice drips with
sarcasm and false
sincerity)
Well, I'm sorry, but it seems I
don't have your signed permission
slip. I don't think you'll be able
to join us today.

CUT TO:

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL STADIUM - PREVIOUS SEASON

Lucy is verbally assaulting a majorette. We can't see exactly

what she is saying, but her body language is intense.

LUCY (V.O.)
I wasn't exactly Mrs. Wyatt's best
friend. Late last season her
precious daughter, a majorette,
decided to break the heart of one
of my cymbal players and well, the
Line takes care of their own. Ever
since then, she's kind of had it
out for me.

CUT TO:

INT. FORREST HILLS COMMONS AREA

LUCY
 43.

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

CUT TO:

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE (FLASHBACK)

Post interaction with Wes, Lucy throws out a bunch of papers -

including the permission slip.

CUT TO:

INT. FORREST HILLS COMMONS AREA

MRS. WYATT
No, dear, I don't think you did.
According to school rules, no
student can leave the premises
without signed permission from
their parents or guardian.

LUCY
But...Tom and I are the feature...
(in disbelief)
It's my senior year.

MRS. WYATT
I know and I'm so sorry I didn't
catch this earlier.

LUCY
(slightly under her
breath)
I'm sure you are.

MRS. WYATT
If you can just have your parents
sign...

CUT TO:

INT. LUCY'S PARENTS CAR

Lucy's parents and brother, heading a soccer tournament. They

pass a 'You've Just Entered' sign for another state.

CUT TO:

INT. FORREST HILLS COMMONS AREA

LUCY
They can give you verbal
 44.

permission.

MRS. WYATT
No, sorry, it has to be the
original signature - you know, for
legal purposes.

LUCY
So, you're telling me I can't get
on the bus until I have my parents
signature?

MRS. WYATT
Yes. And given the late notice, I
will call them to follow up.

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

LUCY
I'll be there - do NOT perform
without me! I'll explain later -
promise.

INT. RESIDENCE - KARATE HOUSE

Lucy paces rapidly through the deserted house, and finally

settles in front of her laptop. She speaks rapidly on the
phone.

LUCY
Mom - hey - um, would you lie for
me?

Becky answers.

LUCY
...so, long story short, if you
could just tell Mrs. Wyatt you
signed my permission slip, then my
senior year won't be a total waste
of time.

Becky answers.

LUCY
Thanks Mom, you're the best. I'll
call you when I get there - I
promise. Tell Craig I said good
luck.

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

 45.

directions on the computer. The nearby printer spits out a

set of directions to the competition.

LUCY
Success!

She jumps up and heads outside.

EXT. RESIDENCE - KARATE DRIVEWAY

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

Suddenly, there is a tap on her window, causing Lucy to yelp.

It's Wes! She rolls down her window.

LUCY
What are you doing here?

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

WES
It's my last weekend helping out.
Your mom gave me a set of keys.
(he looks closely at her)
What's wrong? Are you okay?

LUCY
Okay? Okay?! Let's see, the
biggest competition in my marching
career is already going on and I'm
nowhere near it. My car's broken
down, my parents are in another
state, and I'm going to let a lot
of people down if I don't leave,
oh, five minutes ago. I am most
definitely NOT okay.

A beat.

WES
What about if I take you?

LUCY
You would do that?

WES
Why not? I haven't seen a lot of
the country yet - this is a perfect
opportunity.
 46.

LUCY
Then let's go.

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

INT. WES'S CAR - LATER THAT DAY

LUCY
Are you sure we have enough gas?

WES
You mean petrol?

LUCY
(punches his arm lightly)
You know what I mean!

WES
And what did I tell you?

LUCY
(pouting)
You told me that we'd be fine.

WES
(in a soothing tone)
So, what's this competition all
about? I mean, you guys already do
a great job at the games.

LUCY
(laughing)
No offense, but the halftime show
on Friday night is basically
another form of practice for us.

WES
(not understanding)
Oh...

LUCY
Tonight, we're competing against
other marching bands from across
the state to have the best
performance - the most technically
and musically demanding show. All
the sections have to come together.

WES
Sounds...kind of cool. I didn't
 47.

know that's what you were all

working towards.

LUCY
You should stay and watch. You
know, make this drive worth it...

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

LUCY
(oblivious)
So, in addition to competing for
the best band, we also can get
awards in each individual section.
It's a big honor and super
competitive.

WES
What time do you guys go on?

LUCY
Seven.

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

LUCY
(blurts out)
You can stay with me.

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

LUCY
I mean, it wouldn't be just me.
Gina and Mandy will also be in the
room. The whole band is staying
overnight. It's not like they're
going to notice one more teenager.

WES
Couldn't you get into a lot of
trouble?

LUCY
I don't really care.

WES
Let me think about it.

Lucy begins tapping nervously on her knee.

WES
 48.

What's wrong now?

LUCY
It's getting late. I should
probably go ahead and change into
my uniform.

WES
Well, just get in the back seat. I
won't look.

Lucy punches him.

WES
What was that for?

LUCY
Dude, I'm in an all guy section, I
know what that look means.

WES
Let's consider a few looks payment.

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

LUCY
Zip me up?

WES
Sure thing.

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

LUCY
This is it! We're here!

As Wes pulls off the highway and into parking lot, he looks
around and sees more marching bands than he ever thought
existed. The campus is literally swarming with high school
band students. The atmosphere is charged.

LUCY
So, um, if you do want to stay,
well, you can just give me a call
or something.

WES
 49.

I'll stay on one condition.

LUCY
(surprised)
What's that?

WES
You join me on the football field.

LUCY
What? For a game?

WES
No. For a lesson in real football.

LUCY
(considers)
Deal.

Before either has time to realize they've more or less

something that could be considered a date, Lucy's phone rings.
She picks up.

LUCY
Where are you guys? Okay, I think
I see where that is. I'll be there
in just a few minutes.

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

LUCY
So, thanks for everything--

Wes slams on the brakes to avoid hitting a Guard member who

walks in front of the car. Lucy's well intentioned 'thank you
peck' lands squarely on Wes's mouth. Neither has time to
react as they embrace passionately. Neither seems to want to
stop until Lucy's phone rings again. She tears herself away
and looks at the ID.

LUCY
Crap! That's Tom.

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

CUT TO:

EXT. PARKING LOT - FHHS EQUIPMENT TRUCK

Lucy marches up confidently to Mrs. Wyatt, who looks

completely floored to see her.
 50.

LUCY
Here's your f---
(a trumpet player blares
loudly)
Form. Now, if you'll excuse me,
I'm needed at warm ups.

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

TOM
I was beginning to wonder when you
would show up.

Tom crosses and sweeps her into a hug.

TOM
(whispering in her ear)
You had me worried.

Lucy presses closer and murmurs back.

LUCY
You didn't think I would let my
favorite quint player down, did
you?

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

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

MARK
Y'know, I don't think Mrs. Wyatt is
ever going to mess with us again.

LUCY
Why's that?

Mandy and Gina, in their Guard and Majorette outfits (full

glitter and make up) walk up to join the impromptu reunion.

GINA
(shrugs)
Let's just say we had some extra
time on the bus... It was a team
effort, really.

MARK
 51.

There's a new cadence. I don't

want to ruin the surprise, but the
verbal cue is, 'Mrs. Wyatt is a
Bitch.'

LUCY
Nice. Now, if you'll excuse me, I
need a bathroom or I'm not going to
make it through the show.

Gina and Mandy follow their friend.

MANDY
What took you so long to get here?

LUCY
I made out with Wes!

The girls look at each other with confused expressions on

their faces. This is obviously not the answer they were
expecting.

GINA
What?! When?!

LUCY
So, I went home to get directions
and ask my mom to 'sign' the
permission form for me, but then my
car wouldn't start.

MANDY
Wes was there?

GINA
Apparently. Look at her, she's
glowing.

LUCY
Anyway, so he offered to drive me
out here, which reminds me, I need
to ask you girls a favor...

EXT. MARCHING COMPETITION

Wes, a bit bewildered, wanders near where the Pit is setting

up. Molly recognizes him.

MOLLY
What are you doing here?

WES
Umm, Lucy's car broke down, so I
 52.

gave her a ride.

MOLLY
Are you going to stay and watch the
show?

WES
Yeah, I was thinking about it.

MOLLY
Well, come say hi after we finish.

INT. BATHROOM

Lucy and the girls are checking their reflections in the

mirror.

LUCY
So, what do you think?

She makes eye contact with the reflections.

MANDY
You do realize that if we pull this
off, we'll be legends, right?

LUCY
The way I figure it, is that with
the competitions over, we really
have nothing to lose.

GINA
Than let Operation Union Jack
commence!

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

CUT TO:

EXT. WARM UP AREA

The drum line is gathered in the warm up arc. Everyone is

serious, no smiles, only pure concentration. Tom and Lucy
stand out because of their costumes, but everyone else wears
their uniforms. Henry, their instructor, stands in front,
moving in and out to tune everyone.

HENRY
It's been a great four seasons with
you seniors and I hope that we end
tonight on a high note. I know
 53.

some of the Instructors and Lines

here tonight might have scored
higher than us before, but if you
play a clean show, I think we have
a real chance at bringing home the
High Percussion award.
(he pauses)
I'm a little nostalgic, as tonight
is the first class I've seen all
the way through. I'm proud of
every single one of you.
(he makes eye contact with
everyone)
Now - let's do it up.

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

TOM
Can you believe this is our last
competition?

LUCY
Let's make it count.

EXT. STADIUM - FOOTBALL FIELD

With a few thousand band geeks, parents, and friends looking

on, the packed stadium is the perfect backdrop for the full
show of the Forrest Hills Flyers. The announcers voice goes
through the traditional pre-performance speech until the band
is in opening set.

Lucy looks across the field, and sees...

Mandy, the flag resting lightly against her, the cloth

fluttering in the breeze.

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

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

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

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

Fred, at the front of the massive ensemble, standing at

perfect attention.

ANNOUNCER
Drum Majors, is your band ready to
take the field for competition?
 54.

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

CUT TO:

EXT. STADIUM STANDS

Wes looks out to see the match on action.

CUT TO:

EXT. STADIUM - FOOTBALL FIELD

CU on Fred as he stands, looking out at the 200 hundred strong

of the Forrest Hills band. He claps his hands slowly.

FRED
Band, ten hut!

BAND
HUT!!!!

The answer that comes roaring back is overwhelming and the

crowd cheers appreciatively.

CUT TO:

EXT. STADIUM - FOOTBALL FIELD

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

Directors choice for the show. Montage? POV? Zac Snyder

style? As we've been building towards this - it might be time
to see the performance in its entirety.

The show ends with a triumphant close and the crowd is on

their feet. Billy taps quarter notes as they walk off the
field.

EXT. STADIUM - FOOTBALL FIELD

The block of Forrest Hills marching band finds a section of

the stands to call their own and settle in during the break
before the awards. Everyone is still in uniform, nervious and
anxious for the awards.

Lucy, trying not to be obvious, looks around nervously. Has

Wes stayed to watch? Will he join her tonight?

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

 55.

unnoticed the relative chaos of the crowd.

LUCY
Enjoy the show?

WES
I liked it fine.

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

LUCY
So, what are we going to tell
Molly?

WES
The truth, I guess. Where is she,
anyway?

LUCY
Helping make sure the Pit equipment
is taken care of.
(a beat)
How do you think she'll take it?

WES
I don't know.

LUCY
When should we tell her?

WES
Monday?

LUCY
Maybe you should stay out of the
way until then.

Wes looks at her, sadly. They've been apart for so long.

Weeks have already been wasted.

LUCY
(lightly tracing a pattern
on his hand)
It's just that when I'm around
you...

WES
(understanding)
That's probably a good idea.

LUCY
So, I'll--
 56.

WES
(at the same time)
If you...

LUCY
Okay, I'll text you when the coast
is clear. Keep a low profile until
then.

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

stadium.

ANNOUNCER
Will representatives from all bands
please report to the field?

LUCY
That's me.

WES
See you soon.

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

EXT. STADIUM - FOOTBALL FIELD

Our moment of romance over, the tension builds back - will

Forrest Hills be winners today? If appropriate to show a few
other shows as comparison to the Forrest Hills show, probably
best to happen before the awards scene.

LUCY (V.O.)
Hadn't I just been to my first band
practice? Wasn't I still a
freshman? How did I get here, to
my last competition? In the end,
four years passed by in a blur and
yet, I was where I was supposed to
be. Beside me, my past, my
support.

She looks and sees her best friends standing at attention,

waiting for their results to be called.

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

Lucy's concentration is broken by a large round of applause

and the Forrest Hills band members looking expectantly at her.

TOM
 57.

Lucy?

LUCY
What?

TOM
They called our name.

LUCY
Really?

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

LUCY
Why?

TOM
Aome special award for our dancing
ability, I guess.

At the judges table, the pair are each given a medal. Tom
dips Lucy in an even more elaborate way - the crowd cheers and
they return to the band. On their return, we see a large
display of trophies in front of the drum majors.

In the end, through some awesome creative device, Forrest

Hills is victorious and win Sweepstakes.

INT. HOTEL ROOM - 317

Lucy paces frantically, while Gina and Mandy primp to go join

the rest of the award winning band outside. Two trophies,
plus Lucy's medal sit prominently in the room.

LUCY
So, I'm not crazy, right? This is
still a good idea?

MANDY
If you are second guessing
yourself, I will trade places with
you. He is nothing short of
delcious.

LUCY
Okay, fine, fine - now, I also need
to be clear that NO ONE knows about
this, right? You know Mrs. Wyatt
is looking for a reason to get me
kicked out permanently, and this
would be the perfect excuse.

Mandy and Gina nod seriously.

 58.

LUCY
Then get out there and start
celebrating! Just remember the
secret knock when you come back
through.

GINA
Don't do anything we wouldn't!

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

LUCY
(takes a deep breath and
dials)
Room 317 - you can come up.

Although Lucy wants to portray herself as 'cool,' we get a

peek into her nervous feelings as she prepares to see Wes.
Short montage of trying on different outfits, primping, etc.
Finally, she hears a knock on the door. Knowing anyone could
be watching, she rushes to open it and quickly ushers Wes in.

Neither says anything.

Wes moves slowly, deliberately pushing Lucy against the wall

and they quickly pick up where they left off in the car.

FADE OUT:

INT. HOTEL ROOM - 317

Lucy and Wes are still intently making out and interrupted
only at the sound of knocking on the door. It's a specific
beat.

LUCY
Behind the door. Now.

Wes grins sheepishly and tries to sort out his shirt, while
Lucy simultaneously adjusts her clothes and checks the
peephole to her friends in. The trio squeals. Their
excitment is short lived however, as another knock on the door
causes them all to panic.

BAND MOM
(on the other side of the
door)
Girls?

LUCY
Just a minute!
 59.

The room is a mass of energy and movement and Wes executes a

sort of James Bond roll under the bed. Gina and Mandy assume
'casual' poses, and Lucy opens the door.

BAND MOM
Hi girls, just checking in to see
you're all here.
(she walks in and sits
down on the bed Wes is
hiding under)
I also just wanted to say how proud
I am of all of you.

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

BAND MOM
It seems like just yesterday you
were all freshman, and now...

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

MANDY
(obviously yawning)
I know, just think about this
season makes me exhausted.

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

BAND MOM
You girls are so lucky...everything
ahead of you. Oh, but what am I
talking about? I still have other
rooms to check. Remember, be at
the buses promptly at 8AM tomorrow!

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

WES
I didn't think she was ever going
to bloody shut up.

The quartet lets out nervous laughter.

GINA
There is seriously no way we are
getting any sleep tonight.

DISSOLVE TO:
 60.

INT. HOTEL ROOM - 317

Another montage! The night is a long one, without much sleep:

the group watches MTV and does silly choreography, gives each
other manis / pedis, eats from the secret pal gifts, plays
Texas Hold'em, etc. The clock reads 6:00AM when Wes and
Lucy spoon each other and finally go to sleep.

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:

INT. HOTEL ROOM - 317

The phone ringing jars everyone awake. Gina mumbles

incoherently and practically throws the phone and the alarm
clock off the dresser. Everyone cuddles back in for some more
sleep.

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:

INT. HOTEL ROOM - 317

CU of all three of the girl's phones going off with multiple

text messages and calls. The foursome continues to sleep
peacefully. The clock reads 7:45.

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:

INT. HOTEL - HALLWAY

The same Band Mom from the night before is on the other side
of the door, a completely pissed expression on her face. She
pounds on the door.

BAND MOM
Girls! Girls! Open up!

The door slowly swings open to reveal Gina, still in her

pajamas, while Lucy and Mandy scramble to pack. Wes is
nowhere to be seen.

BAND MOM
You are section leaders - all of
you! This is not how leadership is
supposed to act. You better be at
the buses in five minutes or I will
march you down myself!
 61.

The door closes.

CUT TO:

INT. HOTEL ROOM - 317

Match on action as the door closes, revealing Wes behind it.

The girls fly around the room trying to contain the disaster
from the previous night. They are practically out the door
when Lucy pauses.

LUCY
Just wait until the buses leave...

WES
Hopefully next time we'll get more
than a few hours.

They share a heartbeat longer and then Lucy is literally

pulled out the door by her friends, a giant smile on her face.

CUT TO:

EXT. PARKING LOT

Lucy, Gina, and Mandy are obviously the last three marching
band members out of the building and make a less than graceful
walk of shame.

INT. DRUM LINE BUS

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

TOM
Meet up with a vampire last night,
did we?

Lucy's hands immediately slap her neck and she scrambles to

find a mirror.

LUCY
Shhh!!

TOM
I'm proud of you, Lucy girl.

LUCY
(she burrows into Tom's
shoulder, trying to find a
place to go back to sleep)
I don't know what you are talking
about, Mr. Finnegan.
 62.

TOM
Sneaking a boy into your room?
You've come a long way from that
shy goody goody you were in 9th
grade.

LUCY
I'll take that as a compliment and
now, please let me go to sleep.

Like her friends, the trio promptly passes out.

INT. AQUARIUM - CAFE

Like all band trips, they have to do something 'educational'

to get the school board to agree. This is torture for the
girls who haven't slept. Lucy, sitting next to a large cup of
coffee, looks as her phone beeps.

CUT TO:

C/U PHONE SCREEN

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

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

EXT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

The band has finally returned, tired but victorious. Lucy

have shoves her bass, wears her carrier, and tries help steer
the Grand marimba with Molly.

LUCY
So, Molly, there's something I need
to tell you...

MOLLY
Yeah, I should probably mention
something to you as well.

LUCY
I'll go first.

MOLLY
Let's go at the same time?

LUCY
3...2...1...

MOLLY
I don't like Wes.
 63.

LUCY
(simultaneously)
I like Wes!

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

LUCY
(through her laughter)
Billy?

Molly laughs too hard to do anything but nod. The rest of

their section walks by as if nothing is different. They are
used to the female members of their section acting this way.

INT. BAND ROOM

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

WES
Hey you.

LUCY
Hey.

INT. CLASSROOM

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

PRINCIPAL (V.O)
From the senior class, the young
men elgible for Homecoming King
are: James Dodge, Alex Young,
Trevor Peddle, Jude Sullivan, and
Wes Mallinson.

Lucy perks up at Wes's name.

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

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

LUCY
What's up, Mr. Popular?
 64.

WES
Oh, whatever, it doesn't mean
anything...but it does remind me of
something I've been meaning to ask
you.

LUCY
What's that?

WES
Can I escort you to the dance?

LUCY
(a smile lights up her
entire face)
I would like nothing better.

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

INT. FORREST HILLS LOCKER ROOM

Wes is lacing up his cleats. Other members of the team are in

various stages of preparing for practice. He is suddenly
aware a few of his teammates looking at him with interest.

WES
Can I help you with something,
gents?

Sean, a menancing and giant linebacker, steps forward.

SEAN
So, what gives, man?

WES
What are you talking about?

SEAN
You and the band geek?

WES
You mean Lucy?

SEAN
Yeah, I mean, does she put out or
what?

Wes's jaw clenches.

WES
 65.

I don't see how that's any of your

business.

SEAN
Well, it doesn't make sense. We're
all trying to figure out what makes
her so great when Tiffany is
gagging for it.

WES
Look, I don't know how it is here
in the States, but in the UK, when
you spend a night with a girl, it
means something.

SEAN
(obviously impressed)
You already spent the night with
her?

WES
(defensively)
It's not like that - her best
friends were there as well.

The locker room erupts with testosterone as Wes unsuccessfully

attempts damage control on his comments and fails miserably.

SEAN
I always knew those band girls were
up for it. "This one time, at band
camp..."

CUT TO:

INT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - HALLWAY

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

INT. BAND ROOM

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

LUCY
(alarmed)
What's wrong? What happened? Are
you two okay?

MANDY
 66.

(more angry than sad)

Maybe you should ask your
boyfriend.

LUCY
Why is that?

GINA
Thanks to him, our reputations are
shot.

LUCY
I find that hard to believe.

MANDY
Then why were we practically
accosted by the football team when
we came in this morning?

LUCY
What were they saying?

MANDY
They kept mentioning Saturday
night.

CUT TO:

INT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - HALLWAY

Lucy bursts into the hallway and immediately storms up to

Wes's locker.

WES
Did someone do something to you?

LUCY
I just need you to answer a simple
question for me.
(she pauses and catches a
telling ragged breath)
What did you tell your teammates?
What did you tell them about
Saturday night?
(tears spill over)
I thought that was special...I
thought-- I guess I was wrong.

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

LUCY
(before Wes can say
 67.

anything)
I don't want to talk to you ever
again. You and your friends can go
to hell!

EXT. FOOTBALL PRACTICE FIELD

Wes kicks ball after ball - and misses each one.

EXT. FOOTBALL FIELD - AWAY GAME

CU Scoreboard. The game is tied.

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

CUT TO:

EXT. FOOTBALL FIELD - FORREST HILLS SIDE OF THE FIELD

Wes warms up, concnetrating on kicking the practice ball into

the net. The clock is counting down and the team is still
losing by two points.

TIFFANY
How are you feeling?

WES
Fine.

Tiffany doesn't seem to take the hint.

TIFFANY
(obvious and suggestive)
Let me know if there's anything I
can do to make you feel better.

WES
Don't worry, I won't.

COACH
Mallinson - you're up. I know it's
a few yards than you're used to,
but do your best. We're close to
making the playoffs.

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

FOOTBALL PLAYER
Hut!

The ball comes back, and is set up for Wes. He approaches the
 68.

ball and kicks - it sails...wide right. The buzzer sounds and

Forrest Hills loses the game.

CUT TO:

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

INT. WAFFLE HOUSE - NIGHT

The usual gang crowds into 'their' table at a the restuarant.

It's obvious they aren't ready to let Wes off the hook.

LUCY
You know, if Izzo finds out we were
behind this idea, he might not let
us march in the Thanksgiving
parade, right?

BILLY
Come Lucy, it's not that big a
deal.

LUCY
Yeah, well, what about the rest of
the band? We're going to involve
them as well.

MARK
One band, one sound, right? I
think you'll get everyone to agree.

LUCY
Alright. Next stop drum majors.

EXT. FORREST HILLS - PRACTICE FIELD

Lucy, accompanied by a very nervous Bronwyn, approach Drew and

Fred at practice.

LUCY
What's up, buddy?

FRED
Not much.

LUCY
So, perhaps you've heard the rumors
regarding myself set forth by a
certain member of the football
team?
 69.

Drew and Fred are too smart to answer this question.

LUCY
Anyways, we have some plans for
retribution and they start with
you. Do you want to hear more?

Fred looks at Drew who looks at Bronwyn.

BRONWYN
Please?

DREW
Let's hear it.

CUT TO:

Lucy whispering to Mandy and Gina individually.

CUT TO:

The rest of the band leadership interacting with their

sections.

INT. FORREST HILLS - HALLWAY

Lucy and Jewel exit the classroom at the same time.

LUCY
Hey Jewel - I think I forgot to
tell you - congratulations on
making Homecoming Court.

JEWEL
Thanks! Tom was telling me about
the competition you guys had -
sounds like congratulations are in
order for you as well.

A stormy look quickly settles on Lucy's features.

JEWEL
What's wrong?

LUCY
It's just Wes...

JEWEL
Oh, Lucy, I assumed it was all a
lie. I mean, you know how guys
are.
 70.

LUCY
That's the thing - it is a lie.
I'm just not sure why Wes would do
something like that.

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

JEWEL
Well, believe me, I definitely
didn't belive a word of what they
were saying. If it's any
consolation, I heard Coach was
thinking of replacing him.

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

JEWEL
And for a band geek - you're not
too bad either.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL FIELD - HOMECOMING

Lucy sits in the stands. Unlike previous scenes, tonight she

wears her 'old' uniform.

LUCY
(to Mark)
Look after the basses for a second,
will you?

CUT TO:

INT. FORREST HILLS - PRESS BOX

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

LUCY
(to no one specific)
I'm meeting some people from my
broadcasting class here. We're
collecting some B-roll for a
package we're doing on Homecoming.

They return back to the game in progress, leaving Lucy to look

around the room. A folder titled 'Homecoming Announcements'
lays unattended. She looks around the room and waits for a
moment then quietly switches papers in the folder and leaves
the room silently.
 71.

EXT. FORREST HILLS FOOTBALL FIELD

The buzzer for halftime sounds. Wes, as part of the court, is

ushered towards the 50 yard line and a corsage is jammed in
his jersey.

TEACHER
Who are you escorting tonight?

WES
No on--

TIFFANY
Me.

Wes turns around to see Tiffany, resplendent in a bubblegum

pink suit. Compared to Lucy's band uniform, she looks every
part of a Homecoming Queen.

WES
Whatever.

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

EXT. FORREST HILLS STADIUM

On the field, Lucy sits in a different set with the rest of

the Line. Since it's Homecoming and cometitions are over,
they can all slack. The Homecoming theme this year is a
selection of Sinatra tunes, which the band duitfully plays.
The bass drummer snaps to attention when she realizes it's
Wes's turn to walk down the 50 yard line.

The Guard lines either side of mid-field so they can do the

'twirl down' effect with their flags as the couples walk by.

ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
Here's Wesley Mallinson, a senior
and a recent transfer from Great
Britain. He's been a wonderful
addition to our very own Forrest
Hills High School football team.
He's an Honors student, and sources
tell me he wears the smallest cup
on the team.

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

At the same time Fred brings up his hands and begins directing
a new song. The strains of Beck's "Loser" drift across the
field.
 72.

The Guard simultaneously turns their back on the now

humiliated couple walking down the field.

Wes, not even looking in Lucy's direction, walks towards the

locker room, leaving a speechless Tiffany standing by herself.

ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
Sorry, folks, it appears as though
we're having some technical
difficulties this evening.

Fred brings his hands down, ending the song.

BILLY
Mrs. Wyatt is a Bitch!

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

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

CUT TO:

INT. BAND ROOM - SAME NIGHT

The band stands, crowded at attention, in a concert arc. Mr.

Izzo paces through the group, then steps onto the podium.

MR. IZZO
Never! NEVER in my fifteen years
of instructing bands have I ever
seen anything like what happened on
the field tonight. Two weeks ago,
you were some of the best
performers and most talented young
musicians I had ever seen. And
now? Does anyone wnat to volunteer
who is behind this little stunt?

The band room is perfectly quiet.

MR. IZZO
Because of your actions and your
decisions, a young man's evening
was completely ruined! I hope the
person or group who is behind this
event are happy with themselves.

Surprisingly, Lucy's expression is serene - she's at peace

with things.
 73.

MR. IZZO
When I get to the bottom of who is
responsible - there will be
consequences!

INT. LUCY'S CAR - NIGHT

Lucy drives, while Bronwyn sits shotgun.

BRONWYN
Thanks for taking me out tonight!

LUCY
No worries - I mean, just because
everyone else is out having,
doesn't mean we shouldn't, right?

The attempt at uplifting the mood falls flat. The reality

that both girls would rather be at Homecoming is obvious.

BRONWYN
Is anything wrong?

LUCY
No. I'm fine. Have you heard this
song before?

Lucy obviously changes the subject by turning up the radio.

Breaking out of her shell for perhaps the first time ever,
Bronwyn turns the volume back down.

BRONWYN
Are you sure you're okay?

LUCY
(snaps)
I'm fine!
(a beat)
I'm sorry, I didn't mean it to come
out that way. It's just...this is
never where I pictured my senior
season going.

BRONWYN
That's okay, I know I need to get
thicker skin.

LUCY
You really do. I mean, let's face
it, you've got some amazing
percussive skills - maybe even
enough to lead the Line one day.
 74.

BRONWYN
You really think so?

LUCY
Come on, B, you've got the whole
package. 'Lady Captain' has a nice
ring to it.

BRONWYN
I don't think they'll listen to me.

LUCY
They will if you make them.

BRONWYN
I'm just not sure...there's a lot
of competition.

LUCY
(sarcastically)
Competition? On a drum line? Of
course there is. Look, at least
promise me you'll audition for
snare next year. That way, you'll
at least be in line for it.

BRONWYN
I'll think about it.

INT. BAND ROOM

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

MR. IZZO
I've thought a lot over the weekend
and come to a decision regarding
'the prank.' Until someone comes
forward with who was responsible
for the incident, then I am going
to revoke our attendance to the
Thanksgiving parade. Since the
band is so insistent on acting as a
whole, they will take the
consequences as a whole. I leave
it up to you.

The band director walks calmly into his office and closes the
door.

BILLY
What are you waiting for? We still
 75.

need to practice.

INT. WAFFLE HOUSE - AFTER PRACTICE

The seniors crowd in the same booth as before.

LUCY
Guys, I'm going to turn myself in.

J.D.
We can't march the parade without
you.

LUCY
Sure you can. It's not worth all
of this. It was my idea and I need
to own up to my decision.

MOLLY
Could we call his bluff? Surely
he's not going to cancel us going.
We've been going every year since
forever.

BILLY
(snaps his fingers)
I have an idea - what if we all
confess?

LUCY
Like all of us all of us? The
whole band? Could we ask them to
do that?

MARK
Look, I think if you get the
majority to go along with things,
we're going to force his bluff.

LUCY
You really think so?

TOM
There's only one way to find out.

BILLY
Tomorrow?

LUCY
I'll get the word out.

There are nods of agreement around the table.

 76.

INT. RESIDENCE - LUCY'S ROOM

Birds chirp merrily outside. All is still in the Karate

household. Lucy snores and then rolls over.

CU - Alarm clock - 10:30

LUCY
What?!

She scrambles out of bed and races downstairs.

CU - Note

BECKY (V.O.)
Lucy, I know you haven't been
sleeping well, so I decided to let
you rest this morning. Here's a
note to get you into school. I
know you will be in before drum
line.

Lucy is torn - bittersweet that her Mom is awesome and sad

because she's missed the most important day of her high school
career.

INT. BAND DIRECTOR'S OFFICE

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

INT. FORREST HILLS HALLWAY

Lucy, obviously straight out of bed, rushes to find Gina and

Mandy at Mandy's locker.

GINA
Where were you this morning?

LUCY
Overslept. I know, the Universe has
a sense of humor. So? What
happened?

MANDY
The plan is going brilliantly.

The girls begin walking and talking through the crowded halls.

GINA
Izzo had no clue what was going on.
We all lined up and one by one,
 77.

went into his office and told him

the same thing.

MANDY
And everyone else has been doing
the same thing. Every class, it's
the same. He's going to have to
change his mind.

INT. BAND ROOM

The percussionists, according to rank and seniority, line up

in front of the band director's office.

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

LUCY
(honestly)
Mr. Izzo, it was my idea. I am the
one responsible for the prank.
Please don't punish the rest of the
band for my mistake.

The band director leans back in his chair.

MR. IZZO
You know, Lucy, I've been listening
to these lines all day and I really
think you should consider talking
to Ms. Lambert in the drama
department. You could have a
future as an actress.

If he only knew.

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

EXT. FORREST HILLS PRACTICE FIELD (SAME DAY)

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

podium.

MR. IZZO
I have been with this program for
fifteen years. I have seen many of
your brothers and sisters come
through this program and I look
forward to meeting your younger
siblings. Without them, and the
help of your parents, we would not
have the outstanding marching
program we have today. Once you
 78.

leave the halls of Forrest Hills, I

would like to think that a small
part of who you are was created out
here on the practice field. So, in
light of recent events and
admissions, I offer a solution. I
cannot and will not ignore what
happened at the Homecoming game,
but I can also recognize that you
were working together. So, as a
group, those who came forward will
serve Saturday detention to clean
the stadium.
(he paces another moment)
I have also decided we will go
ahead and march the parade as
scheduled.

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

CUT TO:

EXT. FORREST HILLS - FOOTBALL FIELD

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

SEAN
What's up? I thought you and the
band dork were through.

WES
We are, no thanks to you.

SEAN
Is that why you've been sucking
recently?

WES
What do you mean?

SEAN
When you first came to the team,
you were like this awesome guy who
never missed. Now, you miss more
than you make. I heard Coach was
thinking of starting Bennett this
week.

WES
(shrugs)
That's his call, I guess.
 79.

SEAN
Yeah, but you have the skills.

WES
Maybe. Maybe not. I'm not even
sure I had them to begin with.

INT. BUS - NIGHT

Lucy and Tom sit together in 'their' seat.

LUCY
I feel like I haven't talked to you
since Homecoming.

TOM
Yeah, well...

LUCY
Things are going that well with
Jewel?

TOM
You could say that.

LUCY
I'm glad for you and dude, can you
believe you're dating the
Homecoming Queen?

TOM
I know, it's crazy.

LUCY
Was Jewel, er, mad about what
happened at the game?

TOM
No, I mean, her big night was on
Saturday, so it wasn't a big deal.

LUCY
Does she know I was behind it?

TOM
She's not an Honors student for
nothing, Luce.

LUCY
Oh...

TOM
Don't worry, she's not going to say
 80.

anything. Anyway, what about you

and Wes?

LUCY
What about us? Do I really need to
remind you that he totally trashed
my reputation? And the reputations
of my best friends?

TOM
Did he? Or was it the rest of the
football team?

LUCY
Hmph.

TOM
Lucy, you better than anyone shuld
know not to lump one person into a
category just because they are part
of a group.

LUCY
It doesn't--

TOM
No, it doesn't make it right. All
I'm saying, is that I've known you
for a long time now, and I've never
seen you as happy as you were that
weekend.

LUCY
What? You think that was because
of Wes? We won first place -
Sweepstakes and best drum line.
Can't a girl be happy because her
band won?

TOM
(sarcastic)
Yeah, sure, that was definitely the
reason.

LUCY
(looks out the window)
Anyway, it doesn't matter now.
It's too late.

EXT. FORREST HILLS STUDENT PARKING LOT (SAME DAY)

The sky is darker now. Fall is in full effect and the days
 81.

are much shorter. Lucy walks out with her friends.

GINA
Don't look now, Luce, but there's a
big football player behind you.

Lucy turns to see Sean lurking behind her.

MANDY
Come over to spread any more
rumors?

SEAN
Uh...

LUCY
I can handle this, girls. I'll
catch up with you later.

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

SEAN
What did you do to Wes?

LUCY
If that's what you came to talk to
me about, well, it's more like what
he did to me.

SEAN
Are you so sure about that?

LUCY
C'mon, Sean, I know you were there.
He had to have been bragging about
the weekend that no one in this
school can seem to shut up about!

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

LUCY
He was bragging, right?

SEAN
Ummm....

LUCY
What do you mean, 'Ummm?'

SEAN
 82.

Seriously, he didn't give any

specific details.

LUCY
What?! I want the whole story.
Now.

SEAN
Fine. We started asking him about
what he was doing with you, and I
think he said something like, 'if
you spend a night with a girl, it
means something.'

LUCY
That's exactly what he said? Then
how in the hell did Gina and Mandy
get involved in the rumor?

SEAN
Well, we um, obviously
misinterpreted his original
statement and to defend himself, I
think he mentioned 'her two friends
were there.'

LUCY
I suppose the next thing you're
going to tell me is that he tried
to stop you guys from believing the
wrong thing?

SEAN
Actually...

In reponse, Lucy sighs loudly.

SEAN
So, can you make it better?

Lucy is still trying to absorb the impact of what Sean has

said.

SEAN
See, here's the thing. I don't
know if you can relate, but you're
a senior too, so here goes. This
is our last shot - if we win the
state championships, then it's
going to mean a lot to me - to the
whole school. I don't know if you
can understand this whole thing,
but I've been playing football
 83.

since I was like six, and winning

State would be the biggest thing
ever. I just don't want to look at
my senior year and have regrets,
you know?

Lucy takes a moment.

LUCY
Sean, somehow, inexplicably, I can
actually understand what you're
saying. But, what do you want me
to do? He knows I was behind the
whole Homecoming stunt. I'm
fairly certain he doesn't want
anything to do with me.

SEAN
Just talk to him.

LUCY
You're sure?

SEAN
Look, he hasn't been the same
since...since all that went down.
Semi's are this weekend and if we
beat Zion, I know we can make it to
finals.

LUCY
I still don't know how me talking
to Wes is going to make his
football game any better.

SEAN
I don't know either. I just know
his game is totally different now
that you're not in his life.

LUCY
(bitterly)
Why don't you ask Tiffany?

SEAN
Don't be dense. It's you he wants.

LUCY
I'll think about it.

INT. STADIUM - NIGHT

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

 84.

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

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

CU - Scoreboard

ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
After a hard fought first half,
Forrest Hills trails 10-7. Both
Coaches will have a lot to talk
about during their halftime. And
now, stay in your seats while each
of the high school's marching bands
present their halftime shows.

INT. STADIUM

The Forrest Hills band marches out onto the field.

BILLY
In case I don't get the chance to
say it, it's been an honor playing
with you guys for four years. If
today is our last show, well, it's
been a fun ride.

INT. STADIUM - THIRD QUARTER

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

GINA
It doesn't seem possible.

LUCY
What's that?

GINA
How quickly four years goes by.

Lucy looks at the rest of the band. They are on the edge of
their seats as they look down at the field watching the game
in action. Lucy rummages around in her duffel bag and finds
her drum line jacket. She zips it up confidently and leaves
the marching band section without telling anyone where she's
going.

CUT TO:
 85.

INT. STADIUM - FORREST HILLS SIDE

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

LUCY
Wes...

Wes doesn't turn around to face her.

LUCY
Sean told me what happened in the
locker room that day.

Wes turns around to face Lucy. Even in the middle of the

crowded stadium, on the sidelines of a very intense game, it's
like they're the only people in the world.

WES
You have to know I really did try
and stop them.

LUCY
I believe you. I... I also think I
owe you an apology.

WES
'Smallest cup on the team?'

LUCY
(blushing)
I don't think I woke up next to
anything small that morning.

WES
Cheeky.

ASSISTANT COACH (O.S.)

Mallinson - you're up!

They both are transported back to reality.

WES
One moment.

LUCY
Go ahead, they're waiting for you.

WES
They can keep waiting.
 86.

Hollywood kiss. In fact, the kiss is so spectacular, that one

of the camera guys zooms in and the embrace gets put on the
jumbotron.

CUT TO:

Mandy and Gina sharing a smile in the stands.

Molly and Tom also sharing a knowing look.

CUT TO:

ASSISTANT COACH
Alright, loverboy, get out there
and get us three.

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

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

INT. FORREST HILLS HIGH SCHOOL - HALLWAY

Lucy and Wes walk together, smiles on both of their faces.

Lucy twirls a giant ring around her neck.

LUCY
Are you sure you want me to wear
this?

WES
Well, considering if it wasn't for
you, I'm not so sure we would have
the won the State Championship,
then I think you've earned the
right to wear it.

The pair hold hands and continues walking.

FADE OUT:

FIN.