Professional Documents
Culture Documents
A script by
Ashim Ahluwalia and Uttam Sirur
Draft
December 2008
WGA REGISTRATION #1232685
TEENAGE GIRL
W-who's there?
The curtains are motionless again. Then, from beneath her
bed, she hears a low grunting sound. The girl begins to
panic.
She slowly peers under the wooden frame. Nothing. Then
suddenly two red eyes glow. She SCREAMS. A horrific mangled
creature attacks the girl in a savage blood feast. The screen
is splattered deep red.
FILM NARRATOR
Blood is the ultimate symbol. It's
the one that everyone understands.
There is power to blood! It has an
emotional impact unlike any substance
on earth!
Monstrous sounds continue as blood spurts everywhere,
accompanied by a howling wind that tosses debris in all
directions. The dead girl's eyes begin to pulsate. She's
possessed - now transformed into a multi-armed, back-lit
Kali.
From her demonic gaze, she zaps lightning towards the camera.
TITLES fly toward the screen as cheap music surges - A DUGGAL
BROTHERS PRODUCTION.
2
2.
SONU
Your Bits. Two jumbos.
About time.
OLD PROJECTIONIST
The projectionist roughly inserts Sonu's reel into the second
projector. Midway through the first reel, he jerkily switches
on the second. The antiquated projector sputters to life.
CUT TO
5
POONAM
INT. DIAMOND TALKIES - THEATER
3.
Uh, yes sir.
SONU
Definitely.
10
11
4.
DIAMOND TALKIES OWNER
I already got the Indian bits. I
just paid your guy the...
GOLA'S RUNNER
What Indian bits?
12
12
13
14
15
16
5.
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19
20
21
22
23
24
6.
An AUNTY gets up from behind the murky reception and motions
for him to follow.
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25
26
7.
FANIL (CONT'D)
Aye, shut up woman, no chattering.
Behave yourself. Listen to the
director.
27
27
28
29
She
8.
VICKY (CONT'D)
Whatever I do, all this you see,
it's all for him.
(pinches Sonu's cheeks)
Eh? Bastard it's all for you.
Vicky is cheerful, slapping Sonu on the back energetically.
The bedroom has been converted into a make-shift OFFICE,
booze stacked on a filing cabinet.
VICKY (CONT'D)
(to NADIA)
Baby, make him a double...
NADIA'S MOTHER
(trying to capitalize
on the mood)
How about me, too? Don't I get a
drink?
Vicky rudely pushes an empty ICE BUCKET into Nadia's mother's
hands and guides her to the door.
VICKY
Ice, mummyji. We need Ice.
Vicky slams her out, then laughs.
SONU
(serious)
I need to talk to you.
Nadia interrupts, pushing a whisky into each of their hands.
VICKY
(leaning over Nadia
lecherously)
Baby, ten minutes.
Vicky escorts her to the door, touching and grabbing her
until she leaves.
SONU
I shouldn't have gone to Ajmer.
It's not our business. We gave Gola
our word, we should have kept it.
VICKY
(grinning)
I work my ass off to put us in a
good spot and you can't do anything
but find fault with me? Whose side
are you on, anyway?
Vicky grabs the suitcase, slams it down on a dusty table.
9.
SONU
(grumbling)
I don't want to take sides.
always been good to us.
VICKY
Then you go work for him.
on.
He's
I'm moving
She owes me
30
POONAM
VICKY (O.S.)
Listen. Sonu just got in. He sold
the reels. We got the money.
POONAM
You got the money?? I want half.
Vicky, I need the money. I got debts,
I owe the world, Vicky.
VICKY (O.S.)
Poonam, love...c'mon.
POONAM
(hysterical)
Promise I get half.
Vicky.
10.
31
31
Vicky's
11.
32
32
I was
SONU
VICKY
We're living like rats, working for
Gola. I'm sick of getting nowhere!
SONU
I'm sorry, Vicky. I'm sorry.
VICKY
(starts shouting again)
I put food on your fucking table.
What do you do? You do nothing.
Nothing.
33
33
12.
POONAM
Uh, Vicky, it'll be alright, won't
it?
Vicky doesn't respond. He slams the door shut and walks away.
34
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35
13.
ISHARA's big hand is placed over Vicky's face and he's shoved
backwards violently.
ISHARA
You've been pimping bits in Ajmer
that you haven't shown us, eh?
VICKY
No, No, Gola saab, please don't
misunderstand.
(offering the suitcase)
Of-of course we were gonna pay.
Here. It's all here...
ISHARA smashes his fist into Vicky's face, he falls backwards.
The GUESTS on the terrace turn around to gawk.
BUNTY, a
hood, rushes toward Vicky, looking blood-hungry. Within
moments, numerous hands are smacking Vicky all over the place.
ISHARA
Cutting us off, HA?
your throat, pig!
36
We should cut
36
37
14.
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38
I can't do this
POONAM
Oh C'mon Sonu, brothers fight, don't
be...
Poonam puts a comforting hand on his shoulder.
motionless.
He remains
POONAM (CONT'D)
You're still upset about her, aren't
you? I know the feeling, Sonu. So
she went and married someone else...
I've been through that.
(pause)
Not everybody is comfortable with
what we do, you understand?
SONU
I don't care. I'm leaving. Now.
Today. I don't want anything from
him. I don't need him, ok?
(pause)
I'll find something.
39
39
That's
Vicky takes it and dabs the blood off his swollen face.
Just then, the LITTLE BALD MAN whose been watching them
appears at the table. Everyone stands up instantly as GOLA
respectfully grips his hand. ISHARA rushes for a chair.
PK
(interrupting)
Excuse me. I don't mean to disturb
you. May I?
15.
GOLA
No, No, No please PK saab. Our
pleasure. Thank you so much for
those Turkish reels.
PK
(cocking an eyebrow)
The girls are getting very bold there.
Very bold.
PK joins the table. He's a well-bred little gentleman,
dismayed at the sight of Vicky, battered and kneeling at
GOLA'S feet.
GOLA
(slightly awkward)
Uh, a small matter, PK saab. This
Vicky Duggal forgot the rules...
PK leans forward, perching over Vicky like a schoolmaster.
PK
(gently)
Vicky Duggal, eh? You're broke?
Need to steal? How very sad.
Vicky hangs his head in shame.
old friend.
PK (CONT'D)
Are you fed up, Vicky? Is that it?
Vicky looks so sorrowful, it's comic. Everyone cracks up.
The HEAVYWEIGHTS giggle like schoolboys. GOLA is weeping
with laughter.
But PK doesn't smile. He turns abruptly to GOLA.
PK (CONT'D)
I don't mean disrespect, Mr. Gola.
But I see little point in disturbing
an arrangement that works. You guys
have something going here. All you
need is one thing.
What's that?
Me.
GOLA
PK
He finally cracks a tiny smile. Everyone is charmed by this
intriguing little man.
GOLA
And why do we need you?
16.
PK
(grinning widely now)
I can make everyone happy. We can
all be friends again.
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40
41
SHANU
(all professional)
Ok. Talk to me.
SONU
I need a job.
42
17.
SHANU
(irritated)
So get a job.
SHANU puts a cigarette in his mouth and lights it.
his sweaty forehead.
He wipes
SHANU (CONT'D)
What you gonna do, Sonu? Work in a
fucking bank? Be an engineer? How
many times do we have to go through
this?
He offers Sonu a cigarette who takes it half-heartedly.
SONU
I don't know. What I want is...
Well, I'm not sure but it's not this.
Maybe a film. Something different.
SHANU
(rudely)
Save it. Your brother runs things,
the money comes. Not many people
have it this easy, ok? You should
have seen what my mother had to work
with, seven screaming kids and...
A heavily made-up HOUSEWIFE interrupts, pushing her portfolio
in his face.
HOUSEWIFE
Sir, please, five minutes.
Sir..
SHANU
Don't want to rush you off, kiddo,
but I've got a lot of people waiting
and...
SHANU looks the Housewife up and down, then leans forward
suddenly.
SHANU (CONT'D)
(to Housewife)
Tell me something?
The HOUSEWIFE looks quizzical.
SHANU (CONT'D)
(pointing to her
breasts)
Are those real? No cotton-wool?
She smirks, embarrassed.
18.
SHANU (CONT'D)
(sleazy wink)
That's the approach. Keep an open
mind, ok?
SHANU slips her a card, then laughs to himself.
HOUSEWIFE
Sir, please see.. Sexy dance...
The HOUSEWIFE proceeds to do a smutty dance for the midget.
Sonu gets up and ambles away. The CAMERA follows him over to
a dirty window. In the adjoining building, YOUNG WOMEN
dressed in MYTHOLOGICAL COSTUMES loiter on the balcony.
Sonu meanders over and takes a look. He suddenly sees someone
he recognizes: It's the beautiful YOUNG WOMAN from the train!
SONU
What's that building??
Those girls?
SHANU
(Doesn't turn around)
Ram Kishen's office. Some
mythological TV series...
SONU
(energized)
I know that girl. I've seen her!
Frantically, Sonu presses his face to the broken grill. The
YOUNG WOMAN stands sadly at the opposite balcony, sweating,
waiting her turn. She looks ethereal in her goddess costume,
the filthy window framing her like a classical painting.
Sonu cranes for a better view, but she disappears into the
crowd of strugglers. Shanu watches him scampering desperately
from grill to grill.
SHANU
(amused)
Well, there's something. Haven't had
a woman for a while, huh?
Just then, THREE SALESGIRLS in MATCHING UNIFORMS enter.
SALESGIRL #1
Who's Sonu? Suraj sent us.
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43
19.
SALESGIRL #2
..He smelled like a sewer, but he
gave me five hundred advance...
SALESGIRL #3
What an old snake...
SONU is sweating, jammed against the back door. SALESGIRL
#1, thick makeup running down her plump face, is virtually
on top of him.
SALESGIRL #1
(flirty)
You're Vicky's little brother?
(pause)
Something wrong? I'm not going to
bite you.
Sonu jerks his head away from her, disgusted.
girls laugh like hyenas.
The other
44
They stare
GOLA
He's a goddamn liar. I'm not getting
shortchanged again.
PK rocks the ice in his glass, then looks up slowly, his
eyes twinkling.
PK
I told you already, Mr. Gola. My
clients here will finance Vicky.
Then there's no risk of him skinning
you.
20.
PK is flanked by new companions - rough-looking INDONESIAN
BUSINESSMEN nursing whiskies. The pink, pastry-like interiors
of the hotel room make them seem all the more menacing.
VICKY
(Gesturing to the
INDONESIANS)
Thank you gentlemen, thank you.
PK
(curt)
Let's keep it crisp, Vicky. Your
films are boring. We want to help.
My clients don't care about the story.
They need to see pretty faces,
bouncing breasts, juicy behinds and
at least one full-frontal shot.
Clear?
Sir, clear.
wait and...
VICKY
Totally clear. Just
Everyone freezes.
Vicky cracks open the door. It's Sonu with the salesgirls.
They push past him and hustle toward Vicky.
VICKY (CONT'D)
(loudly, huge grin)
Heyyy! Top of the evening, Ladies.
(to Indonesians)
I want you to meet three talented
girls here.
PK
(amused, slaps Gola
on the back)
Everybody's friends here, Golasaab.
You can even distribute "Beauty
Parlour" in your small towns for
free! My gift.
GOLA
(wary)
For free? Why would you do that?
PK
Because we don't need your money.
We need your goodwill!
Sonu looks terribly out-of-place, left out of all this
camaraderie.
One of the INDONESIANS cups a hand over a SALESGIRL'S breast.
She's startled but manages a giggle.
21.
VICKY
(fired up)
Time for Screen tests, ok?
Yaaas!
INDONESIAN BUSINESSMAN
The BUSINESSMAN hollers and grabs the girl's behind. She
screeches, giggling loudly, accidentally falling into ISHARA's
lap. GOLA guffaws, a little unwittingly.
PK
Mr. Gola, nobody's out to screw you.
I can guarantee that!
Sonu finally wanders into the high-spirited circle in an
attempt to be included.
VICKY
Uh, Everyone, my brother Sonu.
The gathering look at him for a moment. There's a pause in
the proceedings. Then they turn away, unimpressed.
VICKY (CONT'D)
Don't just stand there, Sonu, get
Gola saab a refill. PK sir.. What
you drinking? Get him a double.
Here, get me one too.
PK
Get the Peanuts!
45
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22.
GOLA
(radiant)
The first time in India! A thought
provoking film about adult love!
And this is just the beginning...
Fantastic!
ROWDY GUEST
Great effort!
This prompts
POONAM (CONT'D)
C'mon boys and girls, drinks are
served!
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47
23.
Before Gola has a chance to respond, Nadia's mother emerges
from behind a buffet counter.
NADIA'S MOTHER
You like her sir? She has potential?
You think she's pretty?
GOLA
(scanning Nadia lustily)
Why, yes, she's a fine young lady.
NADIA'S MOTHER
Oh she's open to anything. I tell
her to do something and she does it.
VICKY
(interjects)
Oh really? A sign of good parenting,
eh?
Gola & Vicky guffaw crudely, Nadia blushes.
When they turn, they see PK and the Indonesians beaming at
them. PK has a new TURKISH CLIENT with him.
PK
(toothy grin)
I said I could make you all happy,
didn't I? Didn't I say we'd all be
friends?
At the bar, SONU is uneasy, pouring a GUEST a drink. He
continues eyeing his brother's entourage. JOLLY & AFRICA
gawk alongside him.
JOLLY
(low voice)
Sonu, who are all these people?
Look at the dames, everything showing
but their goddamn appetites.
AFRICA
Who's paying for all this?
doesn't add up...
It just
SONU
(gruffly)
How the hell am I to know? I never
asked to be mixed up in this. Vicky's
there - talk to him!
48
48
24.
POONAM (O.S.)
(slurring)
I've made over 50 pictures. Seen
Voodoo Lust? Lady James Bond? I
may be a 'lil loose round the edges,
but I'm not finished yet.
She laughs huskily, then knocks back her gin.
Suddenly a swarm of UNIFORMED POLICEMEN appear, led by
INSPECTOR MANE. The guests tense up. The cops head toward
some petrified bystanders.
INSPECTOR MANE
(rudely)
Hey you. Where's the bar?
SHANU tries to signal. The cops push past him and make their
way up the grand staircase.
YOUNG COP
(pointing to a passing
woman)
Oh my god, sir, look at that one. I
wonder how we go about getting some...
INSPECTOR MANE
Well, that's what Vicky and his little
brother are here for, isn't it, buddy
boy?
49
Why the
49
25.
SONU
(voice falters)
W-why are we doing this? This party..
(pause)
What are you trying to prove?
This
is a different league, Vicky. We're
cutting our own throats...
Vicky pulls him aside, irritated.
VICKY
You think I'm crazy, is that it?
I'm stupid? Well, it wouldn't be
any goddamn wonder if I was. I've
been knocking myself out for people
like you since I could walk.
Sonu moves away, he doesn't want to hear it.
his shirt and pulls him back.
Vicky grabs
VICKY (CONT'D)
Just listen to me, will you? Remember
when the studio shut down? Our old
man was jobless? After that he tried
this and that. It came to nothing.
It was wretched. Not honest or
hardworking. Wretched. He was just
a cornered rat. And then he started
acting like one.
(pause)
You want that?
Vicky gives his brother a slow, hard stare.
at last.
Sonu looks up
VICKY (CONT'D)
This is the first crack we've had at
the big dough, Sonu. We're about to
hit the fucking jackpot. I don't
understand you.
(pause)
Aren't you happy for us?
He then yells over to AFRICA.
VICKY (CONT'D)
, don't piss around. Get my
a double.
brother
26.
Vicky nudges him until Sonu finally breaks into a boyish
smile. Then he reaches out and gives him a big hug.
VICKY (CONT'D)
C'mon. It's only you and me, Sonu.
It's just us.
(pause)
All this is for us.
50
50
This party's
Suddenly POONAM appears on the dance floor, loud and pieeyed, holding a tray of cold drinks.
POONAM
Come on, are we celebrating or what?
Hey you, volume up up UP. Everybody,
let's do the BEAUTY PARLOUR dance!
The dance involves a party game where couples have to keep a
cold drink bottle aloft using just their foreheads, no hands!
The party has degenerated into complete debauchery. People
roll the bottles against each other sleazily.
PK stands with his ASSOCIATES in a corner, unamused.
dead sober, watching POONAM like a hawk.
He's
27.
PK
(to Vicky)
God, she's depressing.
lose her.
What?
You need to
VICKY
PK
Audiences want young blood, not some
drunken hag with tits down to her
knees.
VICKY
(startled)
Uh, Poonam? She's not that old. I
mean she's..
PK glares at him, his beady eyes narrowing.
PK
She's bad business, Vicky.
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51
NADIA
Damn you.
She turns and pushes POONAM, who launches into her shouting
incomprehensibly.
POONAM
Aaargh! Evil witch!
52
28.
Poonam yanks Nadia's hair and a violent cat-fight ensues.
Sonu hears screaming and comes staggering out of the tiny
kitchen, looking bewildered.
Poonam...
SONU
PK and his ASSOCIATES watch, amused, as POONAM flies against
a cabinet. Some guests try to mediate, but it's way out of
control.
VICKY
Hey, hold it. Hold it!
Vicky & Sonu intervene, struggling to hold the ladies apart.
NADIA
I would've whacked you harder, okay,
it's just that I was taught to respect
old ladies.
POONAM
Fucking uneducated whore, you were
taught NOTHING!
Poonam scoops a glass up and throws it at Nadia.
The party REVELERS begin clearing out.
It smashes.
NADIA
Say what you like, Grandma.
POONAM has tears streaming down her cheeks.
her.
Vicky comforts
VICKY
(stroking her head)
C'mon, honey, everybody's friends
here, right? These are our friends.
Vicky notices the party breaking up.
VICKY (CONT'D)
(loudly)
Come on, let's have a drink.
ISHARA
(steps in and shouts)
COME ON, LET'S HAVE A DRINK,
EVERYBODY.
53
53
29.
Sonu staggers to his dirty mattress and collapses in
exhaustion.
54
54
Aaarghh!
VICKY (O.S.)
Better. Hey, there, girls - loose
some clothing.
55
55
JOLLY
Look like the queen okay, because
you are. Now we know that YOU are
the sexy body killer! The evil queen
who stays forever young by bathing
in the blood of young girls.
Like this?
POONAM
She bares her fangs, puts on a regal look, then giggles.
JOLLY
Yeah, fine, C'mon lets go.
The camera rolls. There is no other sound. Vicky watches in
silence as she steps to her place with a tiny stagger.
The sun flares through the smoke making POONAM appear
celestial. She looks down with a giggle and steps into a
large metal tub.
30.
POONAM
Ugh, it smells off..
She settles down, fishes out some intestines, stares at them
unbelievingly, then SCREAMS in sheer terror.
Sonu's seated next to the YETI, who's taking a smoke break.
They recoil in horror.
POONAM (CONT'D)
Aa! AAAAAARGH!!! It's real. How
dare you! How dare you do this.
I'll call the cops!
She scrambles out of the tub, dripping with animal innards,
wiping herself frantically, pulling off her fangs, shouting.
The crew is in shock.
POONAM (CONT'D)
(outraged)
You fuckin' criminals! You bastards
should be behind bars.
VICKY
Poonam, calm the fuck down. Get back
in there!
POONAM
I'm gonna report you.
(announcing loudly)
Vicky Duggal is a criminal. I know
everything. You're trying to kill
me!
POONAM pounds against him, but he stands still, clenching
his teeth.
VICKY
Listen, bitch, you got no mind left.
You're paranoid. Hey - You do that
again, I'll take your head off!
She slams against him again and again, screaming. Then Vicky
snaps. He pulls her hair violently. Sonu comes running,
tries to pry them apart. But Vicky's lost it - he doesn't
let go.
POONAM
You're hurting me!
CRIMINAL.
VICKY
Trying to bring me down, ha?
me?
Vicky WHACKS her, she loses her step.
RAPIST!
Ruin
31.
SONU
(screams pushing him
off)
ENOUGH!
POONAM
You dirty, fuckin' bastard!
try and hit me again!
Just
No
She's gone.
VICKY (CONT'D)
(mumbles)
Drunken bitch, get out of here.
(shouts)
You can NEVER bring me down.
Sonu starts walking behind her. Vicky follows, needing to
displace the anger that's spilling out of him.
56
56
All three are rushing behind each other through the heavy
undergrowth.
VICKY
SONU, I'm warning you!
and..
You leave
SONU
(snaps back)
Don't threaten me.
VICKY
Watch your mouth!
SONU
(screams)
FUCK YOU!
Fuck me?
you?
VICKY
Why am I taking this from
32.
57
57
58
33.
VICKY (CONT'D)
(gently)
There's just one problem. That queen's
costume is ruined.
NADIA
So what do I wear?
Vicky smiles at her, says nothing. She blushes, then starts
to giggle.
NADIA (CONT'D)
Do I get to wear the crown at least?
Vicky puts the tiara on her head.
VICKY
You're the queen, you have to wear
the crown.
Nadia starts unbuttoning, then looks around uncomfortably.
VICKY (CONT'D)
Okay, EVERYBODY OUT! Only the
CAMERAMAN stays. And you, JOLLY.
NADIA
(apprehensive)
You'll stay, no?
VICKY
Sure. We'll stay.
The camera whirs. PK & the TURKISH CLIENT sit on the floor,
watching Nadia undress, looking ghostly under the batteryoperated light.
59
POONAM
He says no with a slow nod, then fidgets with his glass.
POONAM (CONT'D)
(drawling)
Well, come on then, let's enjoy life!
She stumbles up and begins to dance, grabbing Sonu.
59
34.
POONAM (CONT'D)
Come on, come on. We paid good money
to get in.
She pulls him out of his chair, almost falling over herself,
and they dance awkwardly together. POONAM mouths the words
to the ROMANTIC SONG as she clutches onto Sonu. She's trying
not to tear up.
As Sonu swings POONAM past an ornamental mirror, something
catches his eye. Fractured into myriad diamond-shaped patterns
is the beautiful YOUNG WOMAN from the train!
She's part of a LARGE GROUP, celebrating someone's birthday,
clapping her hands in delight as candles are blown out.
POONAM staggers a bit.
POONAM (CONT'D)
I need water.
I feel sick.
Sonu deposits POONAM in her seat. She sighs and leans back,
eyes closed. Sonu looks for a waiter.
Suddenly, he sees the beautiful YOUNG WOMAN coming towards
him! No - she goes past... She turns and goes out of the
front door. Almost instinctively, he follows.
60
SONU
I mean...
SONU (CONT'D)
Weren't you at that audition?
Kishan Productions...
PINKY
(smiling shyly)
You work in films?
He's paralyzed.
SONU
Uh, I could say that, yes.
Ram
60
35.
With his dressy shirt and waxed hair, Sonu does come off as
someone rather important. Her eyes flash, excited. She
fingers her bag awkwardly.
PINKY
You're a director?
Sonu smiles back, nodding shamelessly. PINKY can barely
contain her excitement. She fishes in her faded old handbag.
PINKY (CONT'D)
(whispering)
Look, I wouldn't normally do this
but I've just moved to Bombay and
you look like an honest person. Uh,
please can I show you?
It's a few portfolio photographs - Pinky in various outfits
looking coy, thoughtful, merry. She looks up at him,
trusting, waiting eagerly for a response.
SONU
Yes, yes. We should show these around.
Um, I can help, maybe the next time
I see you.
(pause)
Uh, when might that be?
PINKY
Well, I stay with my uncle and...
SONU
You have a contact number?
PINKY
No. No I can't. He really doesn't
know, y'know?
(lowers her voice)
If he knew I had these taken... Oh
God, he'd just flip his lid.
Sonu quickly tries to redeem himself.
SONU
Yes, yes, but I'm sure he'll be fine
once you're a star. Once people become
famous...
PINKY freezes in horror. Someone is coming down the
passageway. Sonu turns. Her strict old UNCLE is glaring
from the far end of the hall.
PINKY
I-I have to go.
Then she's gone.
36.
Sonu's face falls. He looks at her photographs one last time
before slipping them into his shirt pocket.
61
61
62
She suddenly reaches out and grabs him, crooking an arm round
his neck. He stumbles forward onto her.
POONAM
V-vicky. Please. Please.
She tries to kiss him, but is too drunk. He pushes her head
back gently onto the sofa.
As he leans forward, one of Pinky's photos slips out of his
shirt pocket, onto the floor.
63
63
64
37.
65
65
VICKY
Your money.
I'm taking
He shakes
66
Vicky goes into the living room and starts stuffing his things
into plastic bags. He makes a racket.
VICKY
(loudly)
As I've said before, it's time you
settle down. Lead a decent life.
67
67
68
38.
69
69
SONU
PINKY
You're so humble about being
this...this big director? Working
with Anil Kapoor and all - that's...
wow. I could never have guessed
when we met... You look so...
SONU
Well, I'm not really working with
him any more.
70
39.
PINKY
(looks devastated)
No? WHY?
Sonu looks into Pinky's smoldering black eyes.
PINKY (CONT'D)
(giggles)
You're staring at me...
SONU
(caught off-guard)
Well, uh... I'm busy with my new
film, so I'm just concentrating on
the heroine.
There's a sudden bright smile on her lips.
SONU (CONT'D)
Ever since I first saw you, I was
wondering what your name was?
PINKY
Well, my friends call me Pinky, what
do your friends call you?
I'm Sonu.
SONU
He fumbles for a card. It reads: PK ENTERPRISES. 368395.
She looks at it impressed, then glances at him cheekily.
PINKY
So, what's your new movie?
SONU
(thinks)
Well, it's... it's called...
(looks at her)
Uh, Miss Lovely.
PINKY
Miss Lovely? Mmmmm. Sounds romantic.
(sensing his hesitation)
Don't want to talk about it?
SONU
Um, no, it's just... You free Friday?
We can go to Searock, maybe talk
more?
PINKY
Hmm. Let's see. It wasn't easy
getting away today. Maybe Sunday?
She pulls a pen from her bag, then grabs his left palm.
scribbles her number, letting her hand linger on his.
She
40.
PINKY (CONT'D)
If he ever picks up, don't answer,
ok?
He looks back at her, now his reaction setting in.
stunned at this incredible happening.
He's
PINKY (CONT'D)
(softly)
You know... I think I like you.
SONU
(teasing)
Think?
PINKY
(laughing)
Mmmmm... And I think I have to go.
She withdraws her hand, blushing.
71
71
41.
Vicky frowns, puzzled.
shoulder.
PK (CONT'D)
Maybe some girl students who are
looking for something different, a
little more, y'know?
More?
VICKY
What more do you need?
RANI
JOLLY
That's it! Roll.
expression.
That's the
RANI
JOLLY
Okay, okay, good.
FANIL
(interrupting roughly)
Oye Rani, enough nonsense. Take it
off. Slowly! That's better. Take
off that chaddi. Okay now you get on
top.
We survey the CREW as they stare in silence.
72
72
42.
VICKY
(annoyed)
Where the hell were you?
five more chais.
Call for
SONU
Bhaiyya, I need to borrow some money.
Not now.
VICKY
Sonu catches a brief, disturbing glimpse of RANI lying almost
lifeless on the bed, the MONSTER on top of her. Then Vicky
slams the door shut.
Furiously, Sonu hurls down his cigarette.
At the other end of the room, Nadia and a HOOD pour drinks
for TWO GIRLS who shift awkwardly on a sofa.
NADIA (O.S.)
(murmuring)
Now, ladies, both of you are adults.
Don't be shocked or interfere, it'll
just ruin the whole spirit of the
evening. Understand? What we want
is for you to kick up your heels,
enjoy it...
SONU
(interrupting Nadia)
Can't you tell him I need to talk to
him urgently?
HOOD
(snaps back)
How many times should I say it, eh?
He said not to be disturbed.
Sonu sits back down, averting his eyes. But not before he
gets a glimpse of a thick sheaf of CASH which Nadia casually
tosses into a box.
73
73
43.
The sentimental montage is part of a newsreel that flickers
on the cinema screen.
The camera lingers on Pinky's face, exquisite, radiant, her
lips parted. Sonu steals a look.
FEMALE VOICEOVER (O.S.)
(School matron voice)
Yes, that's Bombay on the Western
coast. A vibrant city! Truly
cosmopolitan! Bombay is a city alive
with fun and excitement!
Pinky's leg lightly brushes against Sonu's.
to notice.
He pretends not
74
Why
SONU
(lying confidently)
Of course they would! We need our
actress to be a newcomer. Something
new!
Oho!
PINKY
(she squeals)
44.
SONU
Honestly, I can imagine you as Miss
Lovely already. It'll be wild!
He makes a gesture to reassure her, and for a split second,
Sonu reminds us of Vicky.
PINKY
Oh but, I hardly have any
experience...
(looks at watch)
Oh my God, it's almost ten!
SONU
C'mon, I'll drop you.
PINKY
No, that's ok.
SONU
No, no. Where do you live?
drop you. TAXI!
You can't.
Sonu looks wounded.
I'll
PINKY
PINKY senses he's hurt and softens.
PINKY (CONT'D)
The neighbors are too nosy.
She gives him a quick kiss on the cheek.
PINKY (CONT'D)
Thanks. I had fun. See you at the
screen-test?
Sonu finds himself staring vacantly as she disappears into
the swarming crowd.
75
75
Sonu walks through the smoggy haze, head slung low. The
pavements are empty now. Under a flickering sign, he checks
his pockets - he's run out of money. He stands and stares
through a frosted window at rows and mounds of food.
Suddenly he hears honking behind him.
their headlights...
Somebody is flashing
NADIA
45.
76
76
SONU
They cruise through the Bombay night as the song plays.
SONU (CONT'D) (CONT'D)
Uh, I need to ask you something. A
favor.
NADIA
(ignoring him)
It feels good, eh, Sonu ? Streets
are finally empty. Nice, Thank God.
SONU
(dying to speak)
Uh, listen, would you like to invest
in a new project? I'm starting
something.
NADIA
(mocking)
A project? Mmm. Got a good role for
Nadia?
SONU
Uh, sure, but it's going to be a
proper picture. A family movie.
NADIA
(chuckles)
When did the Duggal Brothers start
making family movies?
SONU (CONT'D)
(solemn)
I'm serious, Nadia. I'm planning.
Would you like to invest? A small
amount?
NADIA
ME?? Ha! I look rich or what?
owe money left and right.
46.
She notices Sonu gazing at her in expectation.
NADIA (CONT'D)
Get Vicky to do it, no?
77
77
78
The CAMERA continues tracking inside the darkened, reelstacked hall. A SHADOWY FIGURE slips in through the front
door.
At the far corner, in a frosted-glass cabin, a light is on.
Muffled MOANING can be heard inside.
79
79
47.
GOLA
(motioning to ISHARA)
Don't bother. We have a deal. Get
PK on the phone. I'm not in the
mood to haggle with this hawker.
ISHARA snatches up the receiver. Vicky massages his face,
resentful, wincing as he speaks.
VICKY
(coughing)
Go ahead. Call PK. He'll be the first
to agree.
GOLA's mouth shuts, tightening with distaste.
VICKY (CONT'D)
He's buying up all your suppliers,
Golasaab. He's pushing you out.
GOLA is visibly shaken.
ISHARA
(ear to receiver)
Sir, no one is picking up.
VICKY
You're looking for a confirmation?
(pointing to phone)
Call any supplier. Try and buy some
bits for next season.
Vicky shakes his head and makes a clicking noise with his
tongue.
VICKY (CONT'D)
Without our humble adult reelers,
nobody will watch your films,
Golasaab.
(sighs)
At any rate, there's not much you
can do about it. PK's too connected,
too cashed up.
GOLA glares, clenching his jaw.
GOLA
I've never ever crooked you, Vicky.
And this is what I get in return?
VICKY
I didn't crook you. I outsmarted
you. PK crooked you.
Vicky can't resist - he has a grin on his face a foot wide.
But Gola and Ishara just stare in cold fury, a hard glaze
spreading over them.
48.
80
80
Sonu
81
A proper actor.
SHANU
You want me to get the girls or not?
I don't have all day.
SONU
Um, actually, we don't need any girls.
I lied.
(pause)
I've been thinking. Uh, I want to
make a film, Shanu. It sounds stupid
but...
49.
SHANU shakes his head and walks away, cursing under his
breath.
SONU (CONT'D)
(desperately following)
Just listen to me, will you? There's
money to be made filming a romantic
comedy... other's do it...Why can't
I?
Shanu halts.
SHANU
Roman..tic... Comedy!
Ha, ha.
SHANU (CONT'D)
Where the hell did you get
You pulling something crooked,
50.
SHANU (CONT'D)
Best not to talk about this too much,
ok? It's a little early to spread
it around.
(taps his address
book)
I'll make some calls.
SONU
(falters)
Are you sure? You really think.. I
mean...
SHANU
Don't worry, Sonu, that guy who wrote
"Love Story 85", Nagaich? I know
him. And KK Adarsh? Him too. Real
professionals. They never cut
corners.
(pause)
I'll need another thirty k right
away just to, y'know, get things
moving. Pay advances, things like
that.
Sonu hesitates.
studying him.
SHANU (CONT'D)
No backing out now, right, partner?
Let's shake on it.
82
82
51.
VICKY
Stop making excuses, dammit, we're
not doing anything out-an-out illegal!
SONU
Then you talk to them. They don't
want to release the stuff. What the
hell can I do? I tried my best.
I'm sick and tired of being ashamed..
VICKY
(lashing out)
ASHAMED? Who the hell is ashamed?
Who would have brought people
salvation if it wasn't for us?
SONU
Get your hands off me.
VICKY
(pushing Sonu)
The ricksha-wallas, the factory
workers, the front-benchers? Who
would have brought hope into their
pathetic little lives if it wasn't
for us?
They are screaming at each other now, Vicky gesticulating
wildly. Sonu can feel the blood rising...All his emotions
are coming at once - guilt, anger, fear.
SONU
Don't touch me, ok?
VICKY
What we do here is for the benefit
of mankind, understand?
SONU
That's a lie and you know it...
VICKY
(screams)
Shut up, Sonu!
Vicky on the verge of whacking him. But instead he kicks a
table, knocking over a typewriter. Sonu storms out.
The ACTRESS watches from inside the cabin in stunned silence.
83
83
52.
VICKY
I'm sorry. I lost my head.
sorry, it's just...
I'm
84
She returns with a BANK MANAGER who motions for him to follow
through a SERVICE DOOR.
85
85
53.
Uh, Sonu.
SONU
Duggal.
MR. RATHOD
(all businesslike)
Mr. Sonu, We're disappointed in
you, sir. Very, very disappointed.
Please sit.
Sonu is startled, he looks around. The bank is bustling nobody pays them any attention. He sits.
The Bank Manager studies the cheque for what seems like a
lifetime. We see that Rs. 8000 has been crudely changed to
Rs. 80000 by adding an extra zero.
SONU
I-Is there a problem?
MR. RATHOD
Such a clumsy undertaking, Mr. Sonu.
So poorly done. Why don't you just
steal from Mr. V. Duggal's P&L?
It's almost as if he's discussing a bank loan or a set of
investments.
MR. RATHOD (CONT'D)
(flipping documents)
Ah, I see. Your brother's account.
I see. I think I understand the
situation here. Family tensions?
SONU
(defensive)
Steal? How dare you say...
MR. RATHOD
(sinister)
Don't make this painful, sir. You
want us to start spot checking
accounts, making phone calls?
The Bank Manager brandishes the forged cheque threateningly.
SONU
Now, wait a minute.
I.. I
MR. RATHOD
Please don't get emotional, sir.
(pause)
I'm on your side.
The Manager's eyes narrow. He sits there watching Sonu who
wipes his sweat, shifting nervously.
54.
SONU
(jittery)
Ok, so what do you want?
MR. RATHOD
Give me a moment.
He disappears. Sonu waits, fearfully scanning the place,
jumping in his seat every time someone approaches.
The Manager returns, coolly placing the cash on the desk.
MR. RATHOD (CONT'D)
There's your money, sir. Sixty
Thousand.
SONU
It should be Eighty...You took
Twenty?? H-how could you?
MR. RATHOD
25% during business hours.
my card.
Here's
Sonu grabs his card, then nervously shoves the money into
his bag.
MR. RATHOD (CONT'D)
Let's not be shy with one another.
Anything we can do for you here,
just call.
86
- DAY
86
I'm starving.
87
88
PINKY kicks her head back, the sunlight hitting her face.
She laughs as the sea breeze tosses her hair. Sonu watches
her, dreamily, drinking in every delicious detail of her.
Bombay is visible in the distance.
SONU
We'll shoot the opening here.
you like it?
Uh,
55.
PINKY
It's beautiful, Sonu.
(pause)
Thanks again for the advance.
so much, wow...
It's
Did he think I
SONU
(icy)
How do you know about my brother?
PINKY
Your little friend told me...
SONU
(uncomfortable)
No, but my brother is, he's more,
uh, he makes horror films.
89
56.
PINKY
You didn't like Jaani Dushman?
loved Mumtaz in Nagin?
(pause)
You don't want me to meet him?
SONU
No no, it's just, my taste.
different. We're separate.
It's
You don't
SONU
Well, uh, maybe.
PINKY
(staring at him)
You're a lot older than you look,
aren't you?
SONU
Yeah, kind of.
PINKY
(smiling now)
Why? It's cute. You don't like it?
She smoothes the hair back from his head.
He pulls away.
SONU
(resentful)
Being a man and looking like a kid?
Having people laugh every time you
act like a man. Ha?
PINKY
I'm not laughing at you, Sonu.
SONU
Oh yeah, maybe you would? Suppose
things had been different? If I met
you at a party and tried to kiss you
like any man, you would have laughed
your head off.
57.
PINKY is silent, watching him with a half-smile.
SONU (CONT'D)
And don't tell me you wouldn't,
because I know you would.
PINKY grabs him and presses her mouth against his.
And then Sonu's kissing her like he's been waiting all his
life to do just that.
90
90
91
92
58.
93
VICKY
(tense, stepping
forward)
Take it easy. I told you - talk to
PK. I've got nothing...
ISHARA
(furious, shoving
Vicky)
Talk? YOU talk to fuckin' PK. Give
us what you owe us, you goddamn thief!
Vicky moves in on GOLA, staring right into his face.
VICKY
Well that's the way it looks to you.
(he pauses)
Now I'll tell you how it looks to
us.
GOLA is taken aback.
VICKY (CONT'D)
Isn't your daughter getting married
in December? Good family, I hear.
(pause)
We must come and pay our regards.
ISHARA
Hey shut the hell up...
VICKY
We're insiders here, old man. The
groom's family know about your thing
for minors?
93
59.
(livid)
Shut up!
GOLA
Nadia's voice
NADIA (CONT'D)
...not with your little wee-wee that
can't even say hello...
Nadia puts a hand over her mouth, too late.
Oops!
NADIA (CONT'D)
60.
Everyone turns to look. GOLA reddens, turns abruptly and
marches out, flanked by his THUGS. He is followed by a titter
that swells into guffaws.
94
94
I'm sorry.
PINKY (CONT'D)
INT. TALK OF THE TOWN RECEPTION - NIGHT
95
The camera tracks with them as the enter the smoky bar.
Sonu nervously eyes Nadia's table, past the cabaret dancer
who shimmies in and out of view.
PINKY (O.S.)
Quite a place, this!
96
96
61.
97
Can
97
62.
98
98
I don't
He follows.
SONU
It's only 9, Let's go to the Trinity
Club. We'll get out of here... Please.
I can't.
PINKY
SONU
I'll see you tomorrow?
PINKY
...I can't make it tomorrow either.
SONU
What do you mean?
PINKY
I can't see you for a while.
SONU
(pleading)
Please, Pinky. Why?
Pinky is silent.
Why?
SONU (CONT'D)
PINKY
We shouldn't meet, Sonu. It's not
good for me. Or for you.
99
63.
SONU
(pleading)
But you're the best thing that ever
happened to me.
She looks away.
SONU (CONT'D) (CONT'D)
Look, we start shooting, I'm getting
the script next...
PINKY
(cold)
Stop lying to me.
I...
SONU
PINKY
You're not the owner of your company
are you? Not even a partner.
Sonu looks broken.
PINKY (CONT'D) (CONT'D)
Your like his servant!
(pause)
I was wrong from the start...
believing you could make me an
actress. What a joke! You've never
paid out of your own pocket in your
life!
Sonu is enveloped in sullen despair. He's holding back the
tears.
PINKY (CONT'D)
It takes guts to act, Sonu, and I
think you ought to have more guts the guts to do something! You can't
go your whole life being scared of
him...
She sees his anguished look, then feels bad and touches his
cheek briefly. Before Sonu can respond, Pinky's half way
into a waiting TAXI.
PINKY (CONT'D)
(through window)
Sonu, look, it's okay. I had a good
time with you. It's alright.
(she pats his hand)
I need to get home now.
SONU
Please, Pinky. Don't go.
64.
Before he can finish his sentence, the TAXI drives away.
Sonu is left standing pathetically under a street light.
100
100
101
Hello...
65.
SONU (CONT'D)
She's from Ajmer. I saw her on the
train. We've been spending time...
VICKY
(wicked smile)
Pinky. What kind of name is Pinky?
Do I really need to know about this?
Tell me, do I look interested?
(pause)
I known the nicey-nice babes out for
kicks, ok? Women are all fuckin'
liars.
Sonu is crushed into silence.
SONU
(simmering)
Don't talk about her like that.
VICKY
She could be a spotter, then what?
Some woman detective from the censor
board, snooping around, wanting to
bust us for bits. Then what?
SONU
That's insane. No way in...
VICKY
You got to watch yourself when a
prize fox makes a play...
SONU
It's impossible!
VICKY
C'mon, don't get emotional, kiddo.
You wanna bang her, bang her. I'm
just looking out for you. Ok?
Vicky ruffles his brother's hair.
SONU
(cold)
You're jealous.
VICKY
(sitting down)
My, my. Getting a little cocky, are
we?
Sonu looks away, smoldering. Vicky takes a wad of notes
from his briefcase, then nudges it into his brother's hand.
66.
VICKY (CONT'D)
So talk to Fanil, ok? Get a couple
of girls, don't pay more than ten
each. They need valid passports.
102
102
103
104
Sonu slams open the sagging metal door and emerges on the
terrace outside his shabby flat, the sun flaring in his eyes.
105
105
Then he sits still,
67.
Sonu feels himself coming apart inside, he can't bear to see
her like this.
PINKY
(sobbing)
H-he saw me with you, Sonu...
SONU
(stunned)
Y-your uncle? What happened?
(pause)
Pinky, what happened? Did he hit
you Pinky?
She nods an ambiguous yes-no, her low helpless sobbing cuts
Sonu like a knife.
SONU (CONT'D)
(anger rising)
How dare he? You stay here. For
however long you need to. I can PINKY
(wiping her tears)
I was really counting on this film,
Sonu.
(pause)
The truth is I have no money of my
own, I'm completely broke...
Her voice trails off into silence.
to hold her.
SONU
Look, Pinky, I was going to tell
you. This film... Miss Lovely...
Pinky, I'm gonna make this film.
I'm closing in on something...
PINKY
(pulling away from
him - sobbing again)
Sonu! Please. Not any more. I jjust can't stand it if you lie to me
anySONU
I'm not lying. I know it sounds
crazy, Pinky. I want to show
you...please...close your eyes.
She sniffles, looking at him suspiciously.
SONU (CONT'D)
Close your eyes, Pinky.
68.
She shuts her eyes. He neurotically digs through some junk,
reaches behind a cupboard and comes out clutching a bulging
SPORTS BAG.
Okay.
Look.
SONU (CONT'D)
He zips open the SPORTS BAG. It's packed tight with CASH packs and packs of paper-banded BILLS.
PINKY
(covering her mouth)
My god!
He stuffs some money into her pockets.
PINKY (CONT'D)
(stunned)
No. Where did you.. I can't take
this from you, Sonu. No. I've never
taken money from any SONU
(charged up)
It doesn't matter. I - nothing
matters but you. Right from the
first time I saw you.
He strokes her hair. She smiles now - a beautiful, sad smile.
SONU (CONT'D)
I paid Ravi Nagaich an advance to
write the script. He wrote "Love
Story 85" and PINKY
(hesitating)
No! No, we shouldn't. It's hard
enough to think straight...
SONU
(whispering)
You're going to be a star.
you -
I promise
69.
106
106
107
Try.
(bitchy)
NADIA
108
70.
109
109
110
111
Sonu & PINKY are hot and sweaty as they collapse into a booth,
laughing. They are all over each other, in love.
Sonu says something to her, she can't hear. He puts his mouth
close to her ear.
SONU
(motioning)
I'll get drinks.
She pouts but lets him go.
Sonu disappears leaving PINKY watching the dance floor. She
tilts her head back, a radiant smile spreading over her face.
Suddenly she spots Vicky glowering at her from the staircase
above.
She panics, looks away, then hastily leaves the booth. He
follows.
112
112
She's fighting her way through the crowd on the dance floor.
He's shoving his way down a flight of stairs. She's running
down a corridor. He chases after her.
113
VICKY
PINKY stops and turns. She realizes it's no use running and
waits for him with a hunted expression.
PINKY
(aggressive)
PINKY.
VICKY
Sorry, baby, I only know Sonica. The
Bar Dancer from Night Queen.
113
71.
PINKY
(uncomfortable)
What do you want?
Vicky looks at her a long moment.
VICKY
Stop playing games with my brother.
He's not normal, understand... He
doesn't know what he's doing.
PINKY
I-I didn't know he was your brother,
Vicky. If I had...
VICKY
(mocking her)
He thinks you're a sweet little girl.
Nice one, Sonica, the virgin from a
small town.
Pinky is silent.
VICKY (CONT'D)
You want to ruin him? Do your
vanishing act again?
PINKY
(interrupting)
Vicky, you were married. With kids.
VICKY
What about your old man? Wasn't he
married?
PINKY
His wife was dead. He was lonely.
VICKY
Bullshit! You thought he had a lot
of money. And he conned you. I have
a lot of money now. Interested?
PINKY
Fuck you, Vicky.
(pause)
It's not just a fling with Sonu.
With him I can be who I was a long
time ago...
VICKY
Oh my bleeding heart! Then tell him
who you really are. Tell him, Sonica.
72.
PINKY
(choking back the
tears)
I'm just doing what I should have
before I got married, ok?
VICKY
Even if you take everything Sonu has
to offer, you'll never regain your
lost innocence, understand?
PINKY
I really care about him, Vicky.
You'll never understand VICKY
(losing his cool)
Yeah? Then lay it out for Sonu, no?
Tell him about all your lovers, those
old perverts.
PINKY is overcome with emotion. She's sobbing now.
her chin up with his fist.
He tilts
She begins to kiss him back. They hold each other tight.
The chemistry between them is intense.
Then PINKY pushes him away with a sob. She stumbles backward.
Vicky reaches for her again, she pushes his hand away.
No! Don't.
PINKY (CONT'D)
She hurries out of the corridor without looking back.
remains frozen, he doesn't turn to see her go.
114
Vicky
114
73.
Then he makes his way back to the booth where they were seated
earlier, distressed. Another COUPLE have occupied the booth
and are necking shamelessly.
115
115
116
VICKY
JOLLY
Nadia still hasn't turned up. We've
been calling...
Vicky blows his top.
VICKY
What the fuck do you want me to do?
Use your fucking brains. Call Shanu,
call Fanil, get a hooker, get
somebody.
JOLLY
(interjecting, annoyed)
Sonu should be handling this.
Sonu slams the phone back in its cradle.
SONU
YOU fucking handle it.
74.
The crew has been killing time in the heat, they're in a
foul mood.
JOLLY
(jerking his finger
at SONU)
Hey, what's wrong with him, huh?
You got a problem?
SONU
(snaps)
Nothing wrong with me.
wrong with you?
What's fuckin'
JOLLY
HEY, watch you mouth, Sonu... Lazy
moron... Don't try and SONU
(standing up)
Come on, asshole! You don't have
the guts. Come on!
VICKY
All right, Enough! Keep your mouth
shut! Big fuckin' man!
SONU
(squabbling back)
You tellin' me that in front of this
asshole? Who the hell does he...
VICKY
(shouts)
SHUT UP! I'll give you a slap in
the mouth, Sonu!
There is a sudden pounding on the door. Everyone's nerves
are rattled. AFRICA bursts in, breathless.
AFRICA
PK's been going crazy all morning.
You promised him reels today? I
can't walk down the street without
ducking his guys...
VICKY
(stressed, to JOLLY)
Call him. Tell him I'm sick. I'm
down with the flu.
JOLLY
(panicky)
Vicky, you know he won't buy it.
He'll think you went sour on the
schoolgirl reels -
75.
SONU
(getting up)
I'm going home.
117
117
VICKY
Sonu, C'mon, I need your help. This
is no good. That bitch Nadia's going
to ruin everything. Go to her mother,
straighten her out, ok?
Sonu pauses for a moment.
before.
Please.
VICKY (CONT'D)
Do it for me, Sonu.
Please.
118
Vicky jerks open the hotel room door and steps back in. He
is met with a strange silence.
He scoops a deck of cards off the table, then grins at the
crew who stare back, grumpy and sweating.
VICKY
(shuffling)
Hey, C'mon, lighten up. It'll be
fine. C'mon, who wants a little game?
119
119
alleys of a slum village. As
he notices a soot covered
mesh, Sonu glimpses a movement,
watching him. It's a strange
ugly eyes.
120
76.
NADIA'S MOTHER
I haven't seen Nadia for three months.
That bitch hasn't sent money home,
either. Can you imagine? After all
I've done for her.. It's pathetic,
doing nothing for her sick old
mother...
As the old lady mutters, Sonu notices a TEENAGE GIRL in the
inner room. She's tarted up in a fluffy red dress, and draws
lipstick over her mouth. She squints at him in the cabinet
mirror.
Nadia's mother catches Sonu looking, then grins at him slyly.
NADIA'S MOTHER (CONT'D)
(whispering)
You like her? That's Najma, Nadia's
lil' sister. Pretty, no? You got a
role for her?
121
JOLLY
(high strung)
See, it's them again. W-we can't
keep avoiding them, Vicky. He wants
that neg.
(pause)
We haven't shot shit, Vicky....
Vicky waits for the phone to stop ringing before he speaks.
VICKY
(troubled)
Calm down. I'll ask PK for an
extension. We're organizing more
girls tomorrow JOLLY
Uh, 'cause I-I was just wondering,
without Nadia... I mean, we - we
got to have a little more money.
The boys wanted to know...
VICKY
(curt)
It's too late for that. You're all
in it with me. If I get it, you get
it, understand?
121
77.
JOLLY looks alarmed.
122
122
123
VICKY
Sonu is standing in a corner, dying to speak. Vicky pushes
past him and heads back into his cabin.
124
Not today,
Sonu is seething - the blood rushes into his face, his pulse
is racing. He repeats the question again more forcefully.
124
78.
SONU
I want to know. Did something happen
between you and her?
VICKY
(shrugging irritably)
I told you, forget about her. You
got screwed, she's split, and that's
that.
SONU
That's a lie!
Vicky picks up a briefcase begins to push past him. Before
he knows what's happening, Sonu is tugging at his shirt
aggressively.
SONU (CONT'D)
I want to know...I've got to know...
VICKY gives Sonu a hard push, but Sonu clings on to him.
tries to slap him off - Sonu just keeps clutching on.
He
VICKY
(shouting)
Get off me, idiot! Ok, you want to
see how far I can go. Try it. Come
on!
(slaps him again)
Be a man and have it out. C'mon,
just try it...
Jolly is trying to pry them apart - but Sonu won't let go.
He's frozen in that position, hands clutching Vicky's collar.
Africa and the Cameraman are horrified - they rush in to
help.
JOLLY
(shouting)
Break it up! Stop it - Sonu!
him.
Leave
SONU
(trembling)
Damn you!
VICKY
You don't have the guts for my kind
of life, that's all. Coward. You
can't even go out and hook the girl
you like!
SONU
The hell I can't! That's why she
left, she couldn't stand the sight
of you.
(MORE)
79.
SONU (CONT'D)
She had all she can take, just like
I've had all I can take. I'm sick
of you. Sick of looking at you,
sick of listening to you, sick of...
VICKY whacks him hard.
Then he pushes Sonu off him violently, panting, wiping his
sweat, sneering at him mockingly. Within moments, Vicky
thrusts past him and is gone.
Sonu's head is spinning.
lip.
125
125
126
127
128
80.
Two grainy photos of Nadia sit side by side. One, a dainty
portfolio picture. The other, a grotesque image of a
decapitated corpse.
SHANU (CONT'D)
It's horrible. Her head was separated
from her body.
Sonu is in shock.
SHANU (O.S.) (CONT'D)
(reading newspaper)
...Police said that the girl's body,
which was found on Tuesday was
identified from a tattoo and
birthmarks...
(pause)
This is really bad, Sonu...
Sonu is dizzy, he holds the wall steadying himself.
129
129
130
131
81.
COARSE MALE VOICE (O.S.)
You ever been in custody?
Poonam shakes her head - no.
COARSE MALE VOICE (CONT'D)
So you enjoy getting loose for the
camera?
POONAM remains silent.
COARSE MALE VOICE (O.S.) (CONT'D)
You're a prostitute?
No.
POONAM
(pause)
I did it for love.
Loud guffaws break out in the adjoining room.
COARSE MALE VOICE (O.S.)
(suppressing laughter)
You did it for love?
(pause)
You're going to testify for love?
Poonam doesn't respond.
82.
POLICE INSPECTOR
(cocking eyebrow)
What do we want?
(pause)
Well... What you offering? Let's
just say we'll take whatever you
have.
132
132
VICKY (CONT'D)
WAITRESS
B-but, I-I'm sorry sir, I was just -
133
83.
VICKY
(rudely)
And I'm trying to get a drink.
get it or not?
Do I
VICKY (CONT'D)
Relax, this case is open and shut.
The kids are singing Happy Birthday.
brother has disappeared from view.
134
134
84.
He finally slaps on the breaks, terrified.
The BLACK CAR stops close behind and three figures get out.
Vicky tries not to panic, but he's drenched in sweat,
illuminated by occasional passing headlights.
135
135
She eyes
CLEANING LADY
Lobby is 24 hours.
136
137
85.
PK
Vicky, this is no way for pals to
talk to each other. I've always
been your pal, haven't I? Always
friendly, easy to get along with,
tossing the cash around. No?
VICKY
I-I can't operate. I don't have the
film and I don't have the cash.
Please. Let's work something out Vicky bends over, coughing, nearly choking.
onto the floor in a little pool.
Blood spills
PK
Look, you're my kind of guy. I like
you, see? You're in a jam, and you
come to me, no? And I'm always there?
PK studies Vicky out of the corners of his shrewd animal
eyes.
PK (CONT'D)
You said, let's work something
out...so, okay. I'm fair.
(pause)
Let's work something out.
138
138
86.
Sonu turns away, unable to look at her. He's crushed,
humiliated, saddened. He just stands there frozen, looking
away as if he never saw her.
The lift doors close and she's gone.
139
139
87.
VICKY (CONT'D)
I know it sounds wild... but I just
want to tell you, Sonu. Everything's
going to be all right. We always
make out pretty well in the end Sonu is distressed, he cuts him off.
SONU
But it's not bits, Vicky. A blue
film is out and out illegal. We've
never done it. We don't...even
know...
VICKY
If there's a chance of us being
caught, I wouldn't take it Sonu.
Trust me!
140
140
141
88.
VICKY
Boy fucks girl. That's it.
(to the couple)
Hey, don't start yet.
The couple snigger crudely.
142
142
VICKY (CONT'D)
You're attracting
143
144
89.
VICKY (CONT'D)
Mane's finally agreed to take the
handout. We can be up and running
in a month, Sonu! Then no more
worries, not being half out of our
minds all the time, wondering how
the hell to make ends meet SONU
Uh, h-hold it Vicky. Stay for a
bit, no? At least until Jolly shows
up?
VICKY
But I don't want Mane to think I
never showed up. We need him to (pause)
Ok, then you go. I'll stay here.
Sonu hesitates.
SONU
W-well, I - I don't know, but I
suppose VICKY
(irritated)
It's simpler I handle the cops.
Vicky makes a reassuring gesture and scampers down the stairs.
Sonu watches him, frowning faintly. Now right when he needs
confidence most, it's all draining away.
Just as he's about to enter himself, he looks at bow of the
rusted ferry again, where the FAT MAN had been standing
earlier. There's no one there.
145
145
90.
CAMERAMAN
Now, wait a minute, Sonu. I got to
look after this equipment. You go.
Sonu frowns, but goes toward the door anyway.
HAGGARD GIRL
And get us some drinks.
146
146
Is the electricity
147
91.
MANE (CONT'D)
A bank clerk reported in. Your
brother's been dipping into your
account.
What?
VICKY
MANE
There's talk of him making a film
with your cash VICKY
(dismissing him)
Naah, c'mon, there's a rumor for
every inch of film in this business MANE
Wake up, Vicky. You're broke. Your
account's empty. See, he even
registered the title. Miss Lovely.
He thrusts the FIR in Vicky's face. Vicky scans it, stunned.
He steadies himself against the toilet seat. The INSPECTOR
then purses his lips.
MANE (CONT'D) (CONT'D)
What about your wife? Doesn't she
have a healthy bank balance? Maybe
her father can offer us something?
Vicky's head is swirling.
MANE (CONT'D) (CONT'D)
Any other relatives?
VICKY
(broken, mumbling)
G-give me a month, Mane saab MANE
God Vicky, please. I'm not interested
in theatrics. Only in the money you
owe us.
VICKY
(panicking)
T-two weeks. Two weeks, I promise...
MANE
(shakes head firmly)
Oh, I can't do that, Vicky!
can't pay, I'm out.
You
Mane turns to leave, then feels bad for Vicky kneeling near
the toilet bowl.
92.
MANE (CONT'D)
Look. As a friend. They're sure to
haul you in before the weekend.
Make some holiday plans, ok?
MANE sighs, pats him on the back and leaves, looking
sympathetic.
148
148
149
93.
150
150
SONU
Sonu swallows hard, the banging stops. The actors and the
cameraman hold their breath, bathed in sweat.
151
151
COP
Stop bastard!
The HUNK runs out of the back, half clothed. Sonu clambers
out the living room window, onto a roof. He doesn't stop.
152
152
94.
CONSTABLE
Shut up, whore!
153
153
SUBINSPECTOR SHARMA
We got you cold, Duggal.
SUBINSPECTOR GAWLE
(walking over)
Tell the truth kiddo, we'll make it
easy on you...
Sonu sags into the chair, terrified.
SONU
No-No! Please. I-I need one more
phone call. Just get my brother here he'll SUBINSPECTOR SHARMA
(laughs out loud)
I told you. We want him here just
as much as you do.
Sonu looks devastated.
SUBINSPECTOR SHARMA (CONT'D)
(grinning)
The way I see it, he stuck his neck
out and yours got stepped on.
SUBINSPECTOR GAWLE
Ok Duggal - tell us why you killed
the girl N-no!
SONU
You got it wrong!
I told you -
154
95.
SUBINSPECTOR GAWLE loses patience. His fingers knot around
Sonu's shirt and he yanks him violently off the chair.
SUBINSPECTOR GAWLE
(threatening)
You're gonna talk or not, Duggal?
He slaps him hard across the face.
SUBINSPECTOR GAWLE (CONT'D)
(barks)
Filthy pervert! You forced her to
do bits and then killed her!
SUBINSPECTOR KHEDKAR
(poking Sonu with a
cane)
You have no respect for our wives
and daughters, eh? No respect for
Indian culture?
Sonu closes his eyes and clenches his jaw as they slap him
again. The camera holds.
SUBINSPECTOR SHARMA (O.S.)
It's a sickness that he has. You
can see it on his face. Look at
him!
Sonu is forced back onto the chair. He is made to hold a
pen. A piece of paper is shoved in front of him.
SUBINSPECTOR KHEDKAR
(barks)
Confess, pig!
INSPECTOR MANE is leaning against the wall, one eye on the
TV, watching a funny Natraj Pencils ad. He doesn't want any
part of what's going on.
155
155
MONTAGE SEQUENCE
ILLUSTRATED WEEKLY-style photographs appear, with black bars
over eyes. This is followed by grainy, naked bodies blackened
out with markers. A passport image of SONU is held on screen.
156
96.
DOORDARSHAN TV VOICE (O.S.)
This man - Sonu Ram Duggal - if you
can call him a man - has corrupted
the morals of decent college-going
youths, and has perverted innocents,
scarring their minds forever. But
there is a worse danger, a danger to
all society.
We see images of arrests, handcuffed girls shielding their
faces and a title card that reads: PERVERSION FOR PROFIT
157
157
HOUSEWIFE (CONT'D)
Yes, this is Vicky Duggal's
158
97.
159
159
SONU
SHUT UP!
PRISONER
(overwrought)
..Pushpa, wipe your tears! Wipe
your tears - I can't see you cry!
The prisoner continues, raving, not meaning to taunt him.
Sonu sobs out loud, clenching his teeth, covering his ears...
SONU
God, I can't stand it.
IT. SHUT UP!
I CAN'T STAND
160
161
98.
Damn you...
SONU
They keep whacking him. DR. DAS, An elderly jail doctor, is
watching the proceedings, unimpressed.
DR. DAS
I said enough! You'll kill him.
Unfasten him now.
GUARD
We SHOULD fuckin' kill him!
The guards are panting, mopping the sweat from their faces.
162
162
163
99.
SONU
(faint)
No! I told you.
connection...
T-there was no
DR. DAS
Well, I don't want them to hang you,
that's all. They're pushing for a
capital case - the death penalty.
That's not good.
(pause)
Now if it was just a blue film, that's
different. But with the girl's
killing...both together, God Sonu starts weeping uncontrollably.
moment, wagging his head.
That
164
165
166
100.
PINKY
(whispering)
Mmm. Sonu, is that you?
She comes close to him, touches his face. He strains to see
her in the darkness. Pinky's fingers run over his lips, his
eyelids.
PINKY (CONT'D)
Oh Sonu, I missed you so much.
SONU
(mystified)
Shhh! What are you doing here PINKY
(hushed tones)
I had to see you. I never want to
leave you again.
He holds her face, a tear drops out of her eye.
PINKY (CONT'D)
Sonu, we are going to be happy, aren't
we?
SONU
(whispering)
It's all right. I'm happy right
now.
Pinky is silent for a moment, then she smiles mysteriously.
Sonu reaches for her, holds her tight. Sonu runs his hands
through her hair, but her hair is all bloody. Blood leaks
onto the floor. She feels dead against his shoulder. He
pulls away horrified. Pinky is now Nadia - lifeless, her
neck slit, covered in blood. Sonu is horrified. He drops
the dead body. When he looks again, Nadia has been replaced
by the HAGGARD GIRL. She speaks in Pinky's voice.
HAGGARD GIRL
Don't leave me, Sonu.
167
167
101.
DR. DAS
The best in the world. Well, here,
read it yourself.
DAS hands Sonu a paper. The story is tucked into one of the
back pages. There's a picture of Nadia sitting in GOLA's
lap - a party picture from the old days. The headline reads:
DISTRIBUTOR HELD IN SEX ACTRESS MURDER
The WARDEN and DR. DAS smile warmly at Sonu.
DR. DAS (CONT'D)
You're going to be free Sonu!
Sonu stares at them blankly - he doesn't respond.
DR. DAS (CONT'D)
Uh, maybe we should have a talk first,
see that you leave with the right
perspective SONU
(weakly)
B-but I don't want to go. I want to
stay here for as long as I live.
168
168
SONU (CONT'D)
I'm not...
GUARD
What the hell? You got your junk now hit the street!
169
169
102.
He walks past a burnt car - still smoking.
170
DAY
170
Holy Christ!
SONU
He hugs Sonu warmly.
AFRICA
Call me Amos, ok? My real name. It
sounds more... professional. My
card. I'm casting now. Straight
stuff, y'know, family entertainment.
(pause)
You... ok?
Sonu gazes up dizzily at the skyscrapers.
AMOS
I haven't seen the old crew. Not
since the riots, anyway. And who
shoots films anymore? It's all TV
now.
(pause)
Hey, but you know who I did see?
That girl you were going with...
what's her (softly)
P-pinky?
SONU
AMOS
Yeah, Yeah. She's shooting at Bobby the same studio I work at. She looks
good, man!
171
103.
Amos stares at Sonu, who sits down on the single unbroken
swing in the garden, thinking.
AMOS (CONT'D)
(sympathetic)
Had a pretty rough time of it, haven't
you, Sonu?
172
172
POONAM
INT. POONAM'S APARTMENT - DAY
173
POONAM (CONT'D)
Uh, you don't want to see Vicky?
SONU
(muttering)
It's all right. It doesn't matter.
POONAM
Look, I'm sure he would want to see
you. I have his new address.
(pause)
But do me a favour, please?
What?
SONU
POONAM
Promise me you'll never come back
here again.
104.
174
- DAY
174
You tell me it
VICKY
Ssh now. Sonu. I've stopped thinking
about it. It's over, Sonu. I shut
down that goddamn film combine. The
thought of it makes me sick.
Everything is video now. No
investment, pure profit.
(pause)
I know that girl made you do it,
Sonu. Oh but she paid back SONU
(in disbelief)
W-what girl? Pinky?
Vicky looks at him wide-eyed.
My lord.
VICKY
You still stuck on her?
SONU
No, No. I-I just wanted to know -
105.
Vicky begins rummaging through a cabinet, recklessly.
VICKY
Where the hell is it? I hoped you
had gotten her out of your system.
Well, she's certainly got you out of
hers
(pause)
She married Joshi, y'know the music
composer..
SONU
(perplexed)
Married...
VICKY
(chuckles softly)
Oh yes, yes. She saw the right guy
and latched right on.
(pause)
But she paid back, alright, gave me
a start in the business.
Business...?
SONU
VICKY
Well, Sonu. I was telling you this
all along. All the caresses and the
whisperings and the promises Vicky raids another cupboard, then finally pulls out a VHS
tape. He pops it into the deck.
VICKY (CONT'D)
I know you think I'm still giving
you bull on that babe, so take a
peek at this...
He flips a switch. The multiple TV monitors come to life.
Tacky video titles read: "MISS LOVELY". The tape is hissy
and we hear Vicky's offscreen voice talking to a girl in a
towel with her back to camera, "Take it off.. oh that's very
nice... yeah"
VICKY (CONT'D)
She's just what I said, huh?
lying, was I?
I wasn't
106.
Sonu watches the tape, expressionless.
No.
SONU
(inaudible)
VICKY
Always been an actress. Aah, look
at that A leopard doesn't change
it's spots.
The phone rings. Vicky sits down at his desk to answer it.
The tape continues and Sonu watches, dumbfounded as Pinky
lays docile under Vicky's hungrily groping hands.
VICKY (CONT'D)
(everyday phone
conversation)
...No. I already gave Sajid the
money. Yeah..
On the monitor, Pinky looks at Sonu, the way Rani had many
years before. Vicky pulls her sweaty body under his. She
moans.
Vicky puts the phone down and turns to his brother.
VICKY (CONT'D)
(ending call)
Man, Sonu, getting cash out of Before he can finish his sentence, Sonu grabs a VHS player
and swings it into his face. He clobbers Vicky in a manic
fit of soul-sickening rage - repeating the action again and
again.
The next ten minutes is a nightmare. A confused and hideous
dream. Vicky is bleeding from the head, his hands flailing.
Sonu has the cord wrapped around his neck and is choking
him. He can't stop the hate and frustration that's been
seething inside him. Vicky clutches onto Sonu, gasping and
clawing. He makes monstrous sounds as blood spurts everywhere.
Then Sonu's pleading and apologizing, choking back the sobs,
hysterically trying to bring him back to consciousness.
The tape hisses away on the monitors as Pinky continues her
performance, occasionally degenerating into fields of static.
The VIDEO TRANSFER EMPLOYEES look on horrified at Vicky's
body, twitching on the cheap Kashmiri carpet.
Sonu backs out of the room, stumbling, covered in blood.
107.
175
175
176
She rushes to pick
POONAM
(hesitating)
Yes, this is she...
She moves from confusion to shock without making a sound,
mouth open, face showing the devastation we can only imagine.
177
177
178
179
108.
SONU (V.O.)
It was like a beautiful dream. At
last, two love hungry souls united.
(pause)
And there's nothing to be done about
it now, of course, but you can't
stop thinking. You can stop
wondering... I mean, how did she
get there? Where did she come from?
(pause)
I never even knew her name.
(pause)
But she was all I had, you see. All
I'd got for all I'd done.
Sonu stands there, immobile - watching her. He is bathed in
a slowly pulsating red glow that intermittently hides and
exaggerates the blood on his clothing.
Sonu's frown disappears, his eyes soften, he's filled with
tenderness. For the first time in years, he smiles.
SONU (CONT'D)
Miss Lovely. I know there's a story
there. If only I could work it out
properly.
She's already distant, shining on that stage like the star
she was always meant to be.
-------------END