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The scene opens in a city park. Many people are running around, playing with their
dogs or kids. The camera pans around the park until we get to a bench. The camera
zooms in on a figure lying on the bench, a newspaper is seen to be covering his
face. Two joggers slow down as they run past.
jogger 1
(whispering)
jogger 2
(whispering)
JOGGER 1
(whispering)
She proceeds to walk closer to the figure on the bench when the figure suddenly
sits straight up, sending the jogger jumping back and screaming. STEVE, mid
twenties, pushes the newspaper off of his head and looks around
steve
(looking around)
Helooooooo Morning!
Steve is apparently drunk, and when he tries to get up off the bench he falls back
down. This is when he notices the two joggers.
STEVE
JOGGER 1
(scoffs)
Come on.
The two joggers run off, leaving Steve all alone.It is a feeling he has felt many
times before.
STEVE
Steve takes another drink form his bottle and lays back down on the bench, falling
asleep.
The scene opens with Steve lying on his couch, fast asleep. Random bags of chips
and bags of cookies lay scattered on the floor. The door to the apartment opens,
and a man, JOE, mid twenties, walks through.
joe
He kicks the couch and bags of chips scatter onto the floor. No response from
Steve. Joe does it again.
JOE
This time a response. A mumble, maybe a "one more minute", comes from Steve and he
stirs a little on the couch. Joe seems to have had enough, and this time pulls the
covers off of Steve, making him fall onto the ground.
STEVE
Joe and Steve sit around the table. Steve is sitting at one end eating a bowl of
cereal, and Joe at the the other end, going through Steve's resume.
JOE
It says here that you wrestled a badger in a steel cage for a children's hospital
charity.
STEVE
(mouth full)
Uh-huh
JOE
STEVE
Yeah, but I thought adding that would add some flavor to it. You know, make it a
little more interesting.
JOE
(staring in disbelief)
STEVE
JOE
WHAT?!
STEVE
Nothing.
JOE
Several cars whiz by the fast food chain, and several cars are seen parked in the
lot. The scene goes inside where Steve is seated, listening intently.
manager
We here at Happy Burgers take pride in the fast food industry. If a customer
doesn't like their order, they expect and will receive a full refund.
STEVE
Isn't that kinda stupid? You know if people know this, they're just gonna say they
hated their food and get their money back. They'll make off with a free meal. You
see what I mean?
MANAGER
We here at Happy Burgers take pride in the fast food industry. If a customer
doesn't like their order, they expect and will receive a full refund.
STEVE
STEVE
I really thought that would have went better.
JOE
Oh yeah. Who could resist hiring a college dropout who fought a badger for the
sake of young children. What is this world coming to!
STEVE
You know, I could really go without you're sarcasm right now. I'm starting to get
a little annoyed with this stupid job search. Can't I just sit at home and do
nothing while you bring home the bacon?
JOE
Oh, no. We agreed we would both get jobs and pay half of each months bills. We
ain't going back on that now.
Joe and Steve reach their car and get inside. It would be a long, quiet ride home.
Steve is shown lying in his bed, on foot hanging off of the edge. Cans of beer lay
scattered on the floor next to his bed with his hand dangling near them. Joe
enters the room, looks down at Steve, shakes his head, and enters the bathroom
located in the room.
Joe and Steve sit around the table, just like the previous morning. Steve is
eating a bowl of cereal and Joe sits opposite of him, drinking a cup of coffee and
reading the newspaper.
STEVE
JOE
STEVE
That's good, that's good. Hey listen, you wanna read my resume. I cleaned it up a
little.
JOE
Oh, yeah. What's it say this time? How you fended off an alien invasion with a
toothpick and razorblade?
STEVE
STEVE
JOE
I'll give you till the end of the week. No job, no more apartment.
Joe puts down the paper he was reading and walks off into his bedroom, leaving
Steve alone once again.
An alarm goes off in a pitch black room, reading 6:00 a.m., and a hand is seen
shutting it off. A light turns on and Steve becomes visible, sitting on the bed.
He begins to get dressed.
Steve emerges from the apartment building with a serious look on his face. He gets
into his car and drives off.
Another alarm goes off, and Joe's hand is seen reaching to shut it off. He gets
out of his bed and walks towards the kitchen. He walks past Steve's room paying no
attention. He doubles back and looks inside to see he is not there.
JOE
Steve?
No response. He walks over to the table and sees a note on it, addressed to him.
He opens it and reads aloud,
JOE
Joe,
I went out to find that job we were talking about. Won't be home till I find one.
Unless a cougar attacks. Then I'll be straight home. We both know I specialize in
badger self defense, not cougar.
-Steve
A smile creeps across Joe's face and he puts the letter back sown on the table. It
was going to be a good day.
Steve walks into the local Must Buy electronic store, with a determined look on
his face. He approaches the customer service desk. Behind it is an average female
teenage punk, chewing gum and reading a magazine, not a care in the world.
STEVE
He's out on lunch. You'll have to wait until 1 when he gets back.
STEVE
It's not even noon time and he's taking an hour lunch.
Random customers in the store stop their previous business and look towards Steve.
Sir, that's probably not the best first impression to give if you want a job here.
STEVE
(settling down)
JOE
MANAGER
Joe walks into the managers office. There are several office chairs and many
posters on the wall of the restaurant.
MANAGER
JOE
...fast food industry. If a customer doesn't like their order, they expect and
will receive a full refund, I know. I've been here since the restaurant opened.
What's all this about.
MANAGER
Well, son, district is making me cut a couple of our employees, and well seeing as
how you have a college degree and all, I'm gonna have to let you go. You can do so
much better.
JOE
But, I told you, I like working here. It's fun for me. I don't wanna go sit behind
a desk all day and sell paper! This is what I wanna do!
MANAGER
Son, please. What's done is done. I'm sorry. You can go clean your uniform and
return it later. Why don't you just go home. Hell, I'll even give you this weeks
pay check 'cause I love ya.
Joe stands up from his chair, nods at the manager, and turns and walks out the
door.
Joe continues walking, with a dazed look on his face. He reaches his car, same
look on his face, and rives home once again. This time without a job.
The title "MEANWHILE..." appears on the screen and the scene changes back to the
Must Buy electronic store. Steve is shown sitting in a chair, fast asleep, in
front of the display of big screen T.V.s. The manager, PAUL, early forties, walks
into the store and over to the customer service desk.
Paul
No calls, just a strange man. He came in about an hour ago and was looking for
you. Said something about a job. He's right over there, in the T.V.s if you wanna
see him.
paul
The manager turns and begins to walk towards Steve and his resting location. The
manager lightly taps on his shoulder, to which Steve jumps awake shouting,
STEVE
Once again, everyone in the store is looking at him, even the manager.
STEVE
Oh, sorry.
PAUL
Are you the one that wanted a job?
STEVE
PAUL
(chuckling)
No, not yet. But why don't we step into my office to discuss it.
PAUL
STEVE
PAUL
All right, let's get this started. First question, what is my name?
Steve squints as he tries to read the distant name tag worn by Paul.
STEVE
P...Puul?
PAUL
What?
STEVE
Oh, Paul.
PAUL
STEVE
Yeah well, what can I say. I did have a beer while I was waiting for you.
PAUL
STEVE
Oh, no. Don't worry. I was drinking outside. Same time I was lighting paper bags
on fire.
STEVE
(shrugging)
PAUL
All right, moving on. Why do you think you deserve this job?
STEVE
Honestly, it's just a last ditch effort to get a job. No one else would hire me.
PAUl
Look, do you want this job or not? Cause I got a ton of guys standing outside
just waiting for you to screw up so they get their shot at it.
STEVE
PAUL
But you're right. No one is out there. But just imagine if there was. Cause I got
friends. Tons of em. No matter what Anyone says. ANYONE!
STEVE
At this point, Paul obviously cannot breathe. He begins pointing at a bag sitting
on a chair, motioning for Steve to get it.
STEVE
PAUL
STEVE
Dude, you almost died and you still want to continue with the interview? Man,
you're a trooper. A real trooper. Ya know what, that is why I want to work for
you. Because you still carry on after hard times.
PAUL
You sir, just presented the most ass kissing filled comment I have ever heard. But
I'm a sucker for ass kissing. So you just landed yourself a position at Must Buy
electronics store.
Paul gets up to shake Steve's hand, and Steve does the same.
PAUL
STEVE
Yes, sir.
PAUL
All right. What don't you start on Saturday, 9 a.m. sharp. Now go home and get
some rest.
STEVE
PAUL
(muttering)
The scene changes to show Joe, fast asleep on the couch with beer bottles
scattered on the ground. He is in a similar position as Steve when we first saw
him. Suddenly, Steve comes bursting through the door.
STEVE
I GOT A JOB!
JOE
(mumbling)
Yeah, about you take your gay parade somewhere else. I'm trying to sleep here.
STEVE
JOE
(mumbling)
STEVE
JOE
STEVE
JOE
STEVE
JOE
Yeah, well...
STEVE
JOE
STEVE
(scoffing)
Huh, yeah right. Everyone knows that's a lost cause. Hey, I know. I can get you a
job at Must Buy.
JOE
STEVE
Uh, yeah I do. Weren't you listening when I walked in. I said I got a job. And
that's where it is.
JOE
STEVE
JOE
What?
STEVE
Long story, I'll explain later. I start work on Saturday, so I'll try then.
Steve walks off into one of the bedrooms, leaving Joe alone in the living room.
Joe quickly falls back asleep.
Steve and Joe enter the Must Buy one the first day of Steve's employment career.
STEVE
Follow me.
The two walk towards the manager's office. Steve knocks on the door.
PAUL
What?
STEVE
PAUL
PAUL
Yes sir.
PAUL
Who's that?
STEVE
Oh. This is my roommate, Joe. He was wondering if he might be able to get a job
here.
PAUL
(to Joe)
You gonna try and kill me then save my life like your friend did?
JOE
PAUL
(sigh of relief)
JOE
(disappointed)
Oh.
PAUL
But, I'll tell you what. Give it a couple of weeks. I'm looking to fire these two
morons on night shift, just waiting for them to screw up. Once they're gone, you
got a job. Deal?
JOE
STEVE
Steve and Joe walk out of Paul's office, leaving him there all alone.
STEVE
That's fine.
STEVE
JOE
I donna know. Eat. Sleep. Eat some more. Sleep some more. Like the good old days.
STEVE
All right. But, listen. You heard Paul. Couple of weeks and you'll have a job.
Just gotta be patient.
JOE
I know. It's just that since I started working, I've never been out of a job.
Aside from college when even then I would work a little. But school kept me busy.
I guess I'll live. It'll just be weird.
STEVE
Ah, go home and get some rest. But don't spend all day watching QVC and buying
shit to take up space. I've seen it happen.
JOE
STEVE
Later.
Joe turns and walks out the door, leaving Steve alone. Steve turns around and
walks back towards his new life.
After clocking in for work, Steve emerges from the back with his new store
uniform, ready for work. Looking nervously around and unsure of really what to do,
Steve approaches another employee.
STEVE
Excuse me?
STEVE
Yeah, hi. I'm new here, and I don't really know what to do...
Steve leans in and squints as he tries to read the employees name tag.
STEVE
...Jessica.
jessica
Listen, it's really not that hard. Just walk around and see if any customer needs
help finding anything. Our number one priority is to sell shit.
STEVE
Steve walks away with a new sense of confidence. He approaches an OLD LADY, early
seventies, looking at CDs.
STEVE
old lady
STEVE
OLD LADY
STEVE
OLD LADY
STEVE
Oh, okay.
OLD LADY
Oh, that's not it... Young man! Young man! I do need help!
The old lady said this loud enough for everyone in that area of the store to turn
and look. Most of Steve's confidence has just left the building.
STEVE
OLD LADY
Oh, I'm sorry. You see it's my medication. Which reminds me, I need to fill my
prescription. I should go do that.
The old lady begins to walk away, leaving Steve all alone.
STEVE
Hey lady! Wait! Don't leave yet! I need to sell this shit!
By now, everyone in the store is looking at Steve, even the old lady turned around
to see the commotion. Embarrassed once again, Steve has no lost all his
confidence. At that moment, Jessica walks past.
JESSICA
PAUL
Listen Paul, you're a good kid. Just trying to find you're place in the world. I'm
gonna cut you some slack. You really can't be yelling like that in the store. It
scares customers off. And if you scare customers off, we can't sell our shit.
STEVE
PAUL
STEVE
Yeah.
PAUL
Yeah. It's sorta our motto. I wanted to put it up on the front of the store, but
some people had problems with hat idea. Said it was too vulgar.
STEVE
PAUL
STEVE
PAUL
Fire you? Hell no! I'm just gonna move you to back dock duties, you know unloading
and stocking. That is until you get comfortable with the system.
STEVE
PAUL
Yeah, I do that. Actually that's why we stopped going to the retirement home. You
see we used to go that old folks home down the road to help out a little, raise
some awareness. Turns out my demeanor was scaring some of them into panic fits,
not good stuff. They even blamed me for killing old Mr. Overton, by I swear to
you, he was already dead. Dude sat there with no expression on his face. I used to
poke him with forks and nothing happened. Ah, guess you had to be there.
STEVE
Guess so.
PAUL
Well look. I'll let you get back to work. Just head out to the back dock. Mike
will show you what to do.
STEVE
PAUL
Steve walks through a door where he is greeted with a blast of cold air and
darkness. The storage room is almost pitch black, although a few lights guide the
way. The air conditioner is apparently on its highest setting, as the room feels
like an ice box. No one is in sight.
STEVE
Hello?
No response. Steve continues to walk through the room, looking for anyone.
Suddenly, the lights turn on and the air is turned down.
MAN
Who's there?
STEVE
Uh, hi. I'm Steve. Paul told me to come back here. I'm looking for a Mike.
Suddenly, someone jumps out from the boxes stored next to Steve. This is Mike,
late thirties, and this is his daily routine.
Mike
STEVE
Oh, hi. Yeah, uh, Paul sent me back here to help you guys out with whatever you
do.
Mike
STEVE
What?
Mike
No, honest. We usually just hang out in the office until lunch break then come out
to eat and head back in.
STEVE
Mike
We do.
STEVE
I thought you...
Mike
Oh, no man. I was just messing with ya. Paul would kill us if we did that.
(laughing)
Oh, man. I'm sorry, that was good stuff. But I'll give ya a break since you're
new. Come on, I'll introduce you to the guys.
Mike puts his arm around Steve's shoulder and leads him to the back loading dock
where there are three other guys standing around.
Mike
Hey! What did I tell you guys about standing around like lazy sons of bitches!
HUH!
worker #1
But we are lazy sons of bitches.
Mike
Doesn't mean you have to show it! Come on now, use your heads! Anyway, this is the
new guy, Steve.
Scattered mumbles are heard from the group, none to impressed to see him and
obviously don't want to be there. Mike began pointing to the nameless figures in
the crowd.
Mike
STEVE
What's up guys.
Steve generates no reply. The group is just looking at him with no expressions
what so ever.
Mike
Wow, this is a first. What no hellos? You're are finally at a loss for words?
Mike
Mike leads Steve away from the group, who are still just standing there. Mike
begins to show Steve all of the ins and outs of life on the back dock.
Mike
Deliveries are usually at six. Right now it is three. That gives you three hours
to prepare.
What I usually do is try to make a space where we can just lay the boxes once off
of the truck. Then we'll move 'em around to make room to walk and those sort of
things. Got it?
STEVE
Yeah, seems simple enough.
Mike
Good.
STEVE
Mike
Who, me? Oh, I never stick around. I'll be back at six, though, don't worry.
And through the doors Mike walked, to the outside world. Nevertheless, Steve
begins to move boxes in anticipation of the o'clock delivery. Steve looks up and
over on the back dock where the silent group is looking at him.
STEVE
randall
STEVE
What's that?
aaron
newbies, people who are new at something. We don't like 'em. They come and take
our jobs.
STEVE
jay
STEVE
Oh, okay.
The group emerges from the shadows and walk over towards Steve to give him a hand.
RANDALL
First, you select the proper box. For you, a smaller box will do.
JAY
STEVE
But isn't that a little careless. You know, you might break something.
RANDALL
HEY! Do you wanna keep your job or lose it? Cause I got no problem ratting you out
for something you didn't do. I know these guys got my back.
STEVE
Steve begins going through the boxes and tossing them aside. This process is a lot
faster and somewhat fun for Steve.
STEVE
RANDALL
The sequence fades out and is replaced with a black screen with the title, "Three
Hours Later", on it.
Steve, Randall, Jay, and Aaron are sitting on several boxes looking out upon the
back dock. Smoke can be seen circling the group and little baggies litter the
floor. They are sharing several stories, pausing to let in a laugh. All four of
them have joints in there hands, making the stories even more funnier than they
already are.
RANDALL
My mom used to get dressed up and go out every Sunday night, leaving me and my
older brother home alone. And this wasn't any dress. She would wear the smallest
dress I have ever seen and go out to where she met my father. Whenever I asked her
why she did this, she'd always tell me, 'Boy, you know I'm still looking for
you're father.'
Randall stops talking and the whole group begins to laugh, unable to stop.
JAY
AARON
(squinting)
AARON
Oh shit! Come on guys! We gotta get this cleaned up before Mike gets back!
Upon seeing the truck and hearing of Mike's return, the gang immediately jump up
to lend a helping hand.
AARON
STEVE
RANDALL
Steve does as he is told and dumps what is left of the pot into the empty, nearby
boxes. When the place is clear of baggies and somewhat of smoke, the truck arrives
on the back dock. The DRIVER, late forties, gets out of the truck with a clipboard
for them to sign the waiver.
driver
Yeah, hey guys. I got a delivery for here. Just gonna need a signature from the
supervisor to okay all this.
JAY
Oh, uh, he's not here right now. Went out to, uh, do some stuff. Cool if we sign?
DRIVER
Upon the driver finishing his sentence, Mike bursts through the doors, breathing
heavily.
Mike
DRIVER
Right here.
Mike quickly scribbles his initials into the box and hands the board back to the
driver. The driver walks over to the truck and opens the back, revealing a world
of must have electronics. The driver pulls out a section of boxes and lowers it
onto the dock.
DRIVER
Mike
The driver waves goodbye and exits back into his truck. Randall and Jay go to
retrieve the left behind boxes.
Mike
Just put 'em over there for now. I'll deal with them later. Why don't you guys
take lunch now?
Mumbles of agreements are heard and Mike exits back into the store.
JAY
Hey, uh, Steve is it? Ya wanna come out to eat with us?
STEVE
(surprised)
Oh, I don't know. I was just gonna hang around here, ya know...
RANDALL
STEVE
(reluctant)
Steve, Randall, Jay, and Aaron all walk into Happy Burgers, ready to eat. They
walk up to the counter and get ready to order.
JAY
Hey, Steve. You know what you want? I'll order and you can grab us a table.
STEVE
JAY
Sounds good.
Steve turns around and walks over to find a booth capable of holding the group.
Eventually, Steve finds a booth that looks clean and big enough. He sits down and
looks up to see the food being brought over.
AARON
RANDALL
STEVE
Nowhere, actually.
JAY
No shit. You one of those slacker guys. Ya know, the one's that sit around all
day?
STEVE
(laughing a little)
Yeah, I guess you could say that. Tried out the whole college thing, but that
didn't really go too well.
RANDALL
What happened?
STEVE
(sighing)
I don't know. Too much of a hassle, too much stress. I thought sitting around in
your underwear all day would be more fun. And it was.
AARON
STEVE
Honestly, it did get a little old. Just wanted something new, you know, experience
the world.
RANDALL
Whoa man. Don't get all spiritual on our asses. We don't deal well with that.
STEVE
Point taken. Well, what about you guys? You been working at the Must Buy for a
while.
AARON
STEVE
(wide-eyed)
That long?
AARON
Yeah. My dad, actually, used to run the place. That's why Mike is assistant
manager. Dad made me work there to support myself 'cause he kicked me out at
eighteen. All the better, though. Never would have met these guys.
JAY
Kiss ass.
RANDALL
Hey guys, lunch time's almost up. Mine as well finish up and get back to close up.
Maybe we'll get out early.
JAY
When Steve and the crew arrive back at the store after lunch, Mike is on the back
dock waiting for them.
MIKE
RANDALL
(mocking tone)
JAY
MIKE
Ten to be exact.
JAY
Oh, ten whole minutes. I'm surprised the store didn't crumble down in our absence.
MIKE
Hey Steve. Paul was telling me about your friend, the one who wanted a job. Tell
him he's got one. Jay you're fired, Randall you're on strike two. Steve and Aaron,
don't let it happen again. You're all dismissed. Clock out.
Mike turns and walks through the door and back into the store, leaving the entire
group stunned.
JAY
Jay turns and walks back towards his car, his life has turned another page. The
rest of the group walks up to clock out and follow Jay's lead, going home.
Steve opens the door to see Joe lying on the couch, watching a Spanish soap opera.
STEVE
JOE
Shh!
Spanish woman
(on T.V.)
SPANISH man
(on T.V.)
The soap opera on T.V. fades into a commercial, leaving Joe sitting on the couch
with his mouth hanging open.
JOE
POR QUE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
STEVE
JOE
I think it was something about a goat.
STEVE
Steve walks into the kitchen and throws his bag onto the kitchen table. He pulls
out a mug and pours himself some coffee. He walks back into the living room and
sits on the couch.
STEVE
JOE
You did?
STEVE
Well, I didn't really get it for you. S guy got fired so his spots yours. If
you're interested.
JOE
Steve
Working on the back docks with me. Just unloading some boxes to put into storage,
not too bad.
JOE
STEVE
JOE
STEVE
Steve gets up off of the couch to put his cup in the dishwasher.
STEVE
I'm going to bed. You probably should too. Don't wanna be late tomorrow.
JOE
Yeah, yeah. Oh, by the way, I ordered some power tools off of QVC today. They
should be here next week.
Steve and Joe walk into the Must Buy the next afternoon with a new sense of
confidence. Joe has finally rebounded and Steve is living the life. They approach
Paul's office to get everything settled with him for Joe to start work. Steve
knocks on the door and the two men stand there, waiting patiently. After a brief
moment,
PAUL
STEVE
PAUL
(releaved)
Steve opens the door and he and Joe enter the confines of what is Paul's office.
PAUL
STEVE
Oh, not much. But last night Mike told me that Joe could get a job now, since Jay
got fired and all.
PAUL
Oh, no. No, I'm sorry but Mike's not in charge of hiring like that. True, Jay did
get fired and that is his decision. But, I'm sorry Joe we don't need ya yet. Still
waiting on those boneheads at night, ya know the ones I was telling you about,
waiting on them to screw up. Just gotta hold out a little longer.
JOE
Joe turns and walks out of the office, on his way out of the store.
STEVE
PAUL
What're you talking about?
STEVE
I told him last night that he would have a job today and he got himself all wound
up. Even missed the end of his soap opera. From Spain no less!
PAUL
Wee, Steve you shouldn't have done that. We can't just hand out jobs like that.
Gotta be patient.
STEVE
He's been waiting for to him what is an eternity. He hasn't been out of a job this
long before. He expected a job by now.
PAUL
Well, maybe he should just look for another job in the meantime...
STEVE
Oh and then just come running back here when you finally decide to give him a job?
PAUL
STEVE
(settling down)
But, in the meantime can I have the day off. Gotta help him out a little, keep his
spirits high. It's the least you could do.
PAUL
STEVE
Thanks.
Steve comes running out of the store, trying to catch up with Joe. He runs out and
sees him nowhere.
JOE
Steve turns and sees Joe leaning up against the side of the Must Buy smoking a
cigarette.
STEVE
JOE
Just started. Needed something to keep me busy, Spanish soap operas couldn't do it
all the time.
STEVE
Hey, I'm sorry about what happened in there. I really thought you were getting
that job.
JOE
STEVE
Yeah, but that's still not right. You were expecting a job, and you didn't get
one. Let me make it up to you. I took the day off, I'll devote it to you.
JOE
STEVE
JOE
If you insist.
STEVE
JOE
Well...
Steve is shown sitting on a bench eating a hamburger. Joe is sitting across from,
eating his food as fast as he can.
JOE
(mouth full)
STEVE
STEVE
Joe tries to say "DUH!" and throw his hands up in the air, but instead he hits his
head on the top of the tube.
STEVE
Steve runs off to tell someone, anyone of his friends troubles. Joe is seen
sitting in the tube, waiting to be rescued. Then, a girl climbs up the tube and
sits next to Joe.
little girl
Hi.
JOE
HI there.
LITTLE GIRL
JOE
I'm stuck.
LITTLE GIRL
Oh. Nobody down there likes you. They say you taking up everybody else's turn.
JOE
Well, they can come up here but there won't be any where for them to go.
The little girl gets a surprised look on her face, and looks down at the other
kids.
LITTLE GIRL
JOE
(puzzled look on his face)
But it was too late. The enormous crowd of kids came rushing up from the bottom of
the tube, pushing Joe and the little girl farther into the tube.
JOE
The kids weren't listening, because, well they're kids. In the nick of time, Steve
come running back into the Happy Burger play area with a fireman, carrying a
chainsaw. Steve pointed to Joe, showing the fireman where he was.
fire CHief
All right, I'm gonna need everybody out of the tubes so I can get that poor man
out of there.
Moans are heard from the group of kids as they are led away from the play area by
their parents. When all the kids are gone, the fie chief goes to work. He uses the
chainsaw to cut apart the tubes and safely return Joe to the ground. A net is
placed towards the bottom of the ground to catch Joe.
JOE
FIRE CHIEF
Let's hope not. They do put those safety rules on there for a reason.
JOE
Steve and Joe turn and walk out of the Happy Burger with a new story to tell.
STEVE
JOE
STEVE
JOE
Well...
STEVE
STEVE
Joe puts down his ball and measures up his shot. He puts his club down and
attempts his shot. The ball ricochets off of a wooden statue, hits and windmill,
and comes back to hit Joe in the face.
JOE
STEVE
(laughing)
JOE
Yeah, I'm glad you thought that was funny. Ah, dammit.
Joe puts his ball back down and lines his shot up. He takes a swing and this time
the ball lands up in the water.
JOE
STEVE
JOE
STEVE
Fine.
Steve and Joe enter their apartment and Joe immediately jumps on the couch and
turns on the T.V. Steve walks into the kitchen.
STEVE
You want anything to eat?
JOE (O.S.)
Not hungry.
Steve closes a cabinet and walks back into the other room.
STEVE
JOE
Night.
Steve walks into the bedroom and closes the door behind him. Joe looks over at the
door and when he is sure that Steve will not be back out, he gets up and goes to
the other bathroom. He begins tearing through the medicine cabinet. He finds a
bottle of pills and takes the bottle with him. He goes to the kitchen and takes a
beer from the fridge. Then he goes and sits on the couch, pill bottle and beer
bottle in hand. He begins to read the directions on the bottle of pills.
JOE
Joe unscrews the pill bottle and pours a couple in his mouth, then opening the
beer and taking a swig of beer.
JOE
Ah...
Steve awakens in the morning to the sound of his alarm. He looks at the clock. It
reads 8 a.m. He groans and gets out of bed and walks towards the door, opening it
revealing the living room. And Joe lying on the floor, unconscious with the beer
and pill bottles lying near him. Steve barrels through the door and rushes to his
friends side.
STEVE
Steve notices the pill bottle near him and picks it up. Then he sees the beer
bottle and then throws the pill bottle down and rushes towards the phone. He dials
911. After a ring,
911 operator
STEVE
My friend, he, I don't know if he's dead, or unconscious, oh god. Please help.
911 OPERATOR
Okay, sir. We're sending over an ambulance to your house now, just stay calm.
STEVE
Thank you.
Steve hangs up with the operator and is now crying. He kneels down to his friend
and continues to cry.
Steve is sitting in a chair with his head in his hands. A doctor walks through the
doors with charts in his hand.
doctor
Steve?
STEVE
DOCTOR
STEVE
DOCTOR
Well, he should be fine. He's sleeping now, but you can go see him once he wakes
up.
STEVE
DOCTOR
With the way he's doing right now, we're just gonna wait till he wakes up, do a
couple of tests and if all goes well, he should be heading home tonight.
DOCTOR
The doctor turns and walks back through the doors leaving Steve with a sense of
hope. He sits back done in his chair and begins to wait. Minutes become hours and
Steve begins to fall asleep. He stirs in his chair, when finally the doctor
emerges from the doors and walks towards Steve. He shakes him awake.
DOCTOR
Steve?
STEVE
DOCTOR
STEVE
The doctor turns and walks away and Steve stands up out of his chair and
stretches, then proceeds to go see his friend.
Steve enters Joe's hospital room and we see Joe lying in a bed, covers pulled up
to his chest.
STEVE
JOE
(quietly)
Hey.
STEVE
JOE
Holding on.
STEVE
You look good, though. We'll get you out of here real soon.
Joe lays his head back down and closes his eyes, going back to sleep. Steve gets
up and leaves the room. He checks his cellphone, the clock reading 2:26. Late for
work.
Steve rushes through the doors of the Must Buy, trying to put on his vest and name
tag at the same time. He heads towards Paul's office and knocks on the door. A
slight cough is heard from the inside.
PAUL
Just a minute!
Papers are heard shuffling around and cabinets being slammed closed.
PAUL
STEVE
It's Steve.
PAUL
Oh, well why didn't you say that it the first place! Get the hell in here!
Steve opens the door and enters the office where Paul is sitting in his chair,
feet up on the desk.
PAUL
STEVE
(puzzled)
Uh, yeah. Just wanted to apologize for being late and all. JOe's in the hospital,
so I was there with him.
PAUL
Hospital? Is he okay?
STEVE
PAUL
Okay. Yeah no big deal. Nothing going on here today. Go clock in.
PAUL
Oh, before I forget. Whenever he's up to it. Joe can come on in and interview for
that job. Fired those idiots this morning.
STEVE
PAUL
No prob. Hey, you still coming over to that retirement home on Saturday? Do a
little charity?
STEVE
PAUL
STEVE
I thought you weren't allowed back in that place after you killed that old guy.
PAUL
There is no proof I did that! Anyway, they decided to let be back in, but on close
watch. Real close watch.
STEVE
PAUL
(laughing)
PAUL
Steve walks through the hospital doors and up to the receptionists desk.
STEVE
DOCTOR
The doctor finishes writing and hands his clipboard to a nurse, then gestures for
Steve to follow him.
DOCTOR
How is he?
DOCTOR
They reach Joe's hospital room and inside Joe is sitting on his bed, watching the
T.V.
JOE
Oh, there you are. I couldn't take any more of this basic cable. You ready to blow
this joint?
STEVE
Just as long as you're sure you're ready to take off. You feeling okay?
JOE
DOCTOR
Upon hearing this news, Joe hops up off of his bed and grabs his jacket.
JOE
Let's go.
A light rain begins to fall as Steve and Joe exit the hospital and enter their
car.
JOE
STEVE
JOE
STEVE
STEVE
Stop doing that. Stop trying to play everything off, like it's nothing.
JOE
Look, we're two different people, okay. You're used to being out of work, I'm not.
I know this was a stupid conclusion to come to, like something a moron does in the
movies. But I'm past it now. Never again.
STEVE
You're right never again. But if you do, and you fail again, I'll personally
finish you off myself. That's a promise.
JOE
I hear 'ya.
STEVE
Steve and Joe walk into their regular Happy Burger restaurant, where the manager
seems to waiting for them.
JOE
I don't care what you say, there is no way Die Hard is a better action movie than
the Terminator. No way.
STEVE
Whatever, you're just bias. Ever since you swear you were using the urinal next to
Arnold Schwarzenegger, your on a Terminator high.
JOE
STEVE
Well then explain to me why he would be in a bookstore at ten 'o clock at night.
JOE
Maybe he's a late reader, I don't know go ask him. What do you want to eat?
Joe then turns to see the manager behind the counter, staring at him.
MANAGER
Hello, Joe. Haven't seen you in a while.
JOE
MANAGER
JOE
MANAGER
Say, how would like to have you're old job back? There's an open spot.
JOE
MANAGER
They kept urinating in the deep frier when I was on break. Didn't go too well with
customers. They don't like piss fries.
JOE
MANAGER
No. One would not think so. Well, do you want the job or not?
STEVE
Oh, I wouldn't.
JOE
STEVE
Well, I was gonna wait till later, but Paul said you can get you're job at Must
Buy now. Open spot.
JOE
JOE
Sorry old buddy. I'm moving on to bigger and better things.
Joe turns back to Steve and starts to lead him out of the Happy Burger.
JOE
With this good of news, we need to celebrate with good food. My treat!
Steve and Joe walk out of the Happy Burger, but quickly return.
JOE
I just realized I don't have any money to live big. Happy Burger it is.
Steve and Joe walk back into the apartment, Joe happier than he has ever been.
JOE
Once i get my first pay check, we're going out to eat. And I mean really eat. No
more of that greased up crap we're used to eating. I mean some fine dining.
STEVE
JOE
Well then I'll save it up, but we'll go out and fine dine. You'll see, I'll show
ya.
STEVE
All right, I believe you. I'm turning in, you should too. Big day tomorrow.
JOE
Joe turns on the T.V. as Steve walks into his bedroom, closing the door behind
him.
Steve and Joe are sitting in Paul's office as he goes over Joe's resume. After
what feels like forever, Paul looks up.
PAUL
Well, looks like we have a new member of the Must Buy family. Welcome Joe.
JOE
PAUL
Whoa, Steve. Didn't you tell him?
steve
JOE
STEVE
Well, Paul doesn't like to be called sir. Makes him feel older.
JOE
PAUL
Paul stupid. Didn't you just hear him. He called me by my name, so you do the
same.
JOE
Oh, okay.
PAUL
No get to work!
Joe looks thrown back, not expecting this sudden urge of emotion. Then Paul begins
to laugh.
PAUL
STEVE
Joe breathes a sigh of relief, and sits there not knowing what will come next.
PAUL
Okay. Joe, I'll have you work on the back docks, Steve can show you the ropes. And
Steve, I'll probably have you on floor duty next week.
JOE
PAUL
JOE
No sir... I mean Paul.
PAUL
Good.
A smile begins to creep across his face, until he begins to burst out laughing.
PAUL
JOE
PAUL
No, no. It's just because you're the new guy, that's all. I probably won't even
talk to once you've been working here for a few weeks.
JOE
PAUL
Especially at that old persons home. Gotta watch what I say. Well anyway, you two
are free to go.
Steve and Joe get up and leave Paul's office. Once outside, Joe looks to Steve.
JOE
STEVE
Yeah, but you get used to it. Come on, back dock is this way.
Steve and Joe walk out to the back dock, where Randall and Aaron are sitting.
STEVE
RANDALL
AARON
Yeah thanks.
Steve leads Joe back to where Mike's office is located. He knocks on the door.
MIKE (O.S.)
Come in.
Steve opens the door and leads Joe inside, where Mike is sitting at his desk.
MIKE
STEVE
Well Mike, we have a new helper here. This is my friend and roommate, Joe.
MIKE
JOE
Thank you.
STEVE
MIKE
Steve and Joe exit Mike's office and go back to where Randall and Aaron are
sitting.
STEVE
RANDALL
Hell no.
AARON
Yeah, go ahead.
STEVE
This is Joe, he'll be working with us now. But on a sad note, I will be leaving
next week. it's back to the store floor for me.
RANDALL
Thank god. 'Bout time we got rid of you.
STEVE
AARON
RANDALL
Trucks here.
They all get up to help unload the truck while Joe stands back to watch how it is
done.
AARON
Mike emerges from his office, mumbling something under his breathe, and signs the
papers. Aaron, Randall, and Steve begin to move the boxes around as Joe watches in
awe.
Steve and Joe emerge from the Must Buy after a hard days work, with a sense of
accomplishment.
STEVE
JOE
STEVE
Oh, so you think it's that easy? All right. We'll see.
The two men reach their car and get in their respective sides, Steve in the
driver's seat and Joe as the passenger.
The next day, Steve and Joe walk through the doors of the Must Buy, where Paul is
waiting for them.
PAUL
STEVE
Well we do work here.
PAUL
Ah ha! That's what I love about you. Always the quick wit. Anyway, Steve I'm gonna
need you on the floor today.
STEVE
PAUL
Yeah I know, but a couple of guys called out so we're a little short. Joe, you
should be fine back there right?
JOE
PAUL
Paul begins to walk away, but turns back to Steve and Joe.
PAUL
Oh, by the way. You're still on for the old people home tomorrow right?
STEVE
PAUL
This time Paul does turn and walk back into his office, closing the door.
JOE
STEVE
It's some place they used to go to for a charity event or something like that.
You're welcome to come.
JOE
STEVE
All right. Mine as well get to work. Good luck back there.
Steve and Joe part ways to go get ready for work.
Joe walks through the doors to face his new challenge. Randall and Aaron are
sitting, similar to the way they were yesterday.
JOE
Hey guys.
AARON
JOE
Yeah.
AARON
I'm Aaron and that's Randall in case you didn't catch it yesterday. Where's Steve?
JOE
AARON
Already?
JOE
Yeah.
AARON
Oh well. His loss. You can have a seat, this job is basically sitting around.
JOE
Oh, cool.
Joe sits down next to Aaron and stares out the back dock. Aaron nudges his
shoulder and offers him a cigarette, which he declines. Mike walks out of his
office and stands behind the group.
MIKE
AARON
MIKE
RANDALL
The rest of the guys get up to go retrieve the order. Once the truck leaves, the
guys begin to sort the boxes into stock.
Joe walks back into the Must Buy after a hard days work. He looks around until he
finds Steve, who is helping a customer. He approaches him and waits until he is
done talking.
STEVE
JOE
Yeah, actually Aaron invited me to go out for a drink, said you can come to. Cool?
STEVE
Steve walks away to go clock out and Joe stands there waiting. Aaron emerges from
the back dock, ready to go and shortly joined by Steve. As they were walking out
of the store, Paul emerges from his office.
PAUL
STEVE
PAUL
PAUL
STEVE
The guys walk into the bar and grill and are led to a table and handed menus.
PAUL
AARON
PAUL
Oh, really. I don't get out much. So what's good to eat here?
STEVE
PAUL
Nah, I don't eat steak. This sounds good, filet mignon. French for fish is I'm
correct. That's what I'll have.
The waitress returns to take their orders, starting with their drinks then their
food. Once she leaves, conversation starts up again.
PAUL
So, who's up to go to the shooting range tomorrow? Steve, I know Ican count on
you.
STEVE
PAUL
AARON
No can do.
JOE
PAUL
JOE
No, I don't but whatever. You're all gonna miss the fun.
STEVE
The waitress returns with their orders and places them on the table, and begins to
walk away.
PAUL
waitress
PAUL
This is.
WAITRESS
Yes.
PAUL
PAUL
So I made a mistake, sue me. Anyway, who do I have working on the back dock?
AARON
Me and Joe.
PAUL
All right. On Monday, we gotta prepare for Black Friday. You know how much of a
livin' hell that'll be.
Paul takes another bite of his steak and a sip of his beverage.
PAUL
There's gonna be a load of shipments comin' in all week, so you all are gonna have
to be in top order so we can get this done.
Aaron
Yes, sir.
JOE
PAUL
Good boys. Steve, I hate to do this to you but I'm gonna need you to work the
floor on Friday, deal with the crowd.
STEVE
No problem.
PAUL
Yeah you say that now. Wait until it's time to face the customers.
STEVE
How bad could it be? Just push and shove back, they'll move. No worries, I got it.
PAUL
Glad to hear it. We're running a huge sale in this Thursday's paper, so expect the
worst on Friday. I'll bring leftovers, but feel free to contribute.
PAUL
Oh, looks like I'm a little short on cash. You guys can spot me, right. Thanks.
Several employees are gathered in the break room when Steve and Joe enter. At the
front is Paul, standing atop a stool, demanding order.
Paul
Those old-timers, like myself, know what this is all about. For those new staff
members, I will explain. Every year at this time, we must unite to defeat the evil
that is Black Friday shoppers. Over the years, we have always lost someone to
these people, and it is time to stop!
Gasps are heard around the room, as they are still reeling from the remark of
losing someone.
PAUL
No, no people. I meant they quit. They're all fine, probably working at a shoe
store, smelling people's feet all day. Poor saps. Anyway, we have some guidelines
to go over before the big day arrives.
Now, I'm sure everyone nows that this upcoming Friday is Black Friday, our busiest
day of the year. To be better prepared for it, I have created a chart to help us
through the day.
Paul gets down from his stool, hands out paper to everyone in the room.
PAUL
As you can see from this, our doors open at 6 a.m. At that time, I will be in my
office, where I will remain all day and I am not to be disturbed.
JOE
PAUL
Oh, help you? I have no idea how to help you. Good luck I guess.
Paul steps down from his stool and begins to exit the room.
PAUL