"RHYMES and REASONS"

Written by

Doug Williams

Doug Williams4536 Regent Avenue N.Robbinsdale, MN 55422dugwilyumz@comcast.net(H) 763-535-7479(C) 763-218-0680WGA#812703

FADE IN:

EXT. MIDDLE CLASS, SUBURBAN NEIGHBORHOOD – EARLY MORNING

A golden summer sun peeks out over the horizon with promises of a beautiful day ahead.

INT. BEDROOM – EARLY SUMMER MORNING

The sun’s rays sneak through the window blinds slightly illuminating the room. LEAH and CHUCK SWENSON (thirty- something) are happily asleep in bed, cuddled together. A pudgy, gray CAT (Greta) lies contentedly next to Leah. The CLOCK-RADIO clicks ON evoking a simultaneous groan from both of them. The mellifluous VOICE of a NEWSCASTER greets them. Chuck pulls a pillow over his head.

RADIOAmerica may be more vulnerable toterrorist attacks than it was onthe day of 9-11-2001. That was thegrim assessment of experts speakingat a recent journalism conferenceon terror and security issues.

LEAH(half-singing)

And I think to myself, what awonderful world...

INT. BATHROOM – MOMENTS LATER

Leah stands before the medicine cabinet mirror. A dreamlike reflection looks back from behind a veil of steam. She wipes away a section of steam from the mirror surface and peers deeply into her own sleepy eyes. Chuck is in the shower, his early morning moans rise above the relentless splashing of the shower spray. Leah speaks softly to herself.

LEAHToday the miracle happens. Todayall the anger, hatred and fear in the world will disappear. Today I get a comic strip contract. Today everything will make perfect sense. Today hell freezes over.

CHUCK(washing his hair)

Did you say something, honey?

LEAHI said, “Today is the day hell freezes over!”

CHUCKGreat! I know that’s a big day for you!

INT. MARIE’S BEDROOM – MOMENTS LATER

Leah quietly enters into what is obviously the bedroom of a little girl. She’s startled by the unexpected sight of an empty bed. Suddenly a CHILD’S MUFFLED GIGGLES can be HEARD emanating from within the closet. Leah goes along with the game.

LEAHI wonder where Marie is?

Another burst of giggles come from the closet.

LEAH (CONT’D)She’s probably busy doing all thechores she forgot to do this weekso I think I’ll take her robe

(grabs robe from nearby chair)

and go over to the closet and hang it...

Leah opens the closet door and out jumps MARIE, a very cutelittle girl, seven years old.

MARIEBOO!!!

LEAHright on the head of this little monster!

(drapes robe over Marie’s head)

MARIE(laughing)

Mommy! I can’t see!

Marie removes the robe from her head.

LEAHMarie, if you ever want to scare anyone you have to control your giggles.

2.

MARIEI can’t help it.

LEAHKeep trying. Even Frankenstein had trouble in the beginning.

MARIEWho’s Frankenstein?

LEAHMe, lately.

INT. KITCHEN – LATER THAT MORNING

Leah, Marie and Chuck are seated at the table eating breakfast. A small TV on a nearby counter-top broadcasts the ‘Today Show’. Al Roker is showing the other “Today Show” regulars the huge pants he used to wear before he lost all the weight. Chuck is engrossed in the SPORTS SECTION of the newspaper while Leah painfully peruses the startling bad news dominating the FRONT PAGE:

POLAR ICE CAPS MELTING FASTER THAN PREDICTED.

Her eyes work downward on the page stopping at another article:

THE HANDS OF THE DOOMSDAY CLOCK HAVE MOVED TWO MINUTES FORWARD TO FIVE MINUTES TO MIDNIGHT. THE SYMBOLIC CLOCK FACE REPRESENTS HOW CLOSE MANKIND IS TO TOTAL DESTRUCTION DUE TO NUCLEAR WAR OR ENVIRONMENTAL CATASTROPHES.

Sighing heavily Leah looks over at the innocent, beautiful face of Marie who is humming to herself while she explores the back of the cereal box. Tears threaten to well in Leah’s eyes. Marie suddenly points to the picture of an adorable baby on the back of her cereal box.

MARIEI want a baby brother just like that!

LEAH(looking at picture)

That’d be nice honey, but I don’t think your father and I can producea black baby.

3.

MARIEI’ll take any color!

CHUCKMe, too!

Chuck gives Marie a gentle fist-bump then they both offer up their fists to Leah. She’s slow to react but offers up a forced smile and a weak fist-bump for both. Chuck notices Leah’s lackluster response but chooses not to say anything.

INT. LEAH’S WORK ROOM/STUDIO – LATER THAT MORNING

The walls are adorned with DRAWINGS/COMIC STRIPS of a cute irrepressible PUPPY called “Peaches the Pup”. A beautiful POSTER of the spectacular Hale-Bopp Comet hangs prominently on a wall. A striking Georgia O’Keeffe POSTER (Morning Glories) hangs not far away. Copies of the trade MAGAZINE “Cartoonist Profiles” are strewn about. We notice a PIECE of PAPER tacked onto the bulletin board with a quote on it:

“My ambition from earliest memory was to produce a daily comic strip.”– Charles Schulz

Next to the quote are the words written in pen: Me, too! Leah is absorbed in her work on a rough draft of a “Peaches the Pup” comic strip.

EXT. HENNEPIN AVENUE – LATER THAT DAY

Leah and Marie walk hand in hand along a busy street bustling with people. They slow down as their attention is drawn to the fancifully dressed display window of a THRIFT SHOP. A SIGN taped to the front window reads: WELCOME! NEW OWNER.

MARIEMommy, can we go in there?

LEAHI don’t know, honey. I’ve got lotsof work to do at home.

MARIEFor just a little while, please?

LEAH(checks wristwatch)

Okay, but just for a little while.

MARIEYay!

4.

Marie excitedly pulls Leah into the shop.

INT. THRIFT SHOP – CONTINUOUS

Leah and Marie enter into a thrift shop unlike any other. Like most thrift shops it’s stocked with an assortment of different items; what’s different about this shop is its playful atmosphere with its colorful displays, brightly colored walls and pleasant MUSIC playing. CUSTOMERS can be seen throughout the shop. Leah and Marie happily explore the room. They stop at a large table full of fun miscellaneous things. A WOMAN of pleasant countenance stands nearby placing new items onto a shelf at the same time observing Marie and Leah from the corner of her eye. Leah spots a collection of old, colorful children’s BLOCKS on a nearby table.

LEAHMarie, look at these beautiful blocks!

MARIEOh, pretty!

They each pick up a block and inspect them. The woman watches even more closely.

LEAHThis block feels warm. Almost hot.

(picks up another block)So does this one.

Upon hearing this comment the woman sidles up next to them.

MARIEThey don’t feel warm to me.

(puts the block down)Mommy, are blocks fun?

LEAHFun? Yes. Once upon a time.

MARIE(pointing to a table full of costume jewelry)

Mommy, can I go over there and look at the jewelry?

LEAHOkay, but stay where I can see you.

Marie runs off. The woman who has been watching Leah picks up a block and speaks.

5.

WOMANThose blocks are most special. There’s not another set like them in the entire world.

LEAHOh? How do you know that?

WOMANI know who made them.

Leah finds the woman odd but likeable.

LEAHThey feel warm in my hands. Maybe they were near a heater or something?

WOMANNo.

LEAHYou seem to know a lot about these blocks.

WOMANI do.

LEAHDo you work here?

WOMANYes. I’m the new owner.

LEAHOh...I love the feel of the place. Kind of magical. Good luck to you.

WOMANThank you. And good luck to you.

LEAHI think I’d like to buy these blocks. How much are they? I don’t see a price.

WOMANYou may have them for free.

LEAHWhat?

WOMANThey’re a gift.

6.

LEAHI’m no business expert but giving your inventory away might not be the best way to make money.

WOMANI’m not here to make money. I’mhere to make people happy.

LEAHThank you, but I’m not comfortable accepting these for free. Can’t I pay you something for these beautiful blocks?

WOMANThat would diminish the power ofthe gift.

LEAHWhat power?

WOMANMany people have picked these blocks up and put them back down again. These blocks were waiting for the right person. You.

LEAH Me? Why me?

WOMANThat remains to be seen. Please, take them. It’d make me happy. I think they’ll make you happy too.

LEAHWell, okay. Thank you.

WOMANYou’re welcome. My name is Mia.

(extends her hand to shake)

LEAHMia? Mine’s Leah. Our names rhyme. Funny, huh?

Just as their hands are about to touch, a zapping electrical spark jumps from Mia’s index finger over to Leah’s index finger causing Leah to jump. Mia is amused.

LEAH (CONT’D)Yikes! Wow! That’ll wake a person up!

7.

MIAIt’s time to wake up. Wouldn’t you agree?

Mia sees over Leah’s shoulder Marie greatly admiring what looks to be a pearl NECKLACE. Mia smiles to herself approvingly.

LEAHMust have been static electricity from the carpeting. Only there is no carpeting?

MIANo carpeting.Not even thick stockings.There must be a good reasonFor something so shocking.

LEAHGood rhyme! Did you just make that up?

MIAI love rhymes! Rhymes are a special way of communicating. From Mother Goose to Dr. Seuss, rhymes have a power of their own. Here’s a rhyme just for you:

That special day you’re waiting forAlso waits for you.It’s there in all its splendorBecause others want it too.

LEAHOthers are waiting for hell to freeze over?

MIACynicism kills just as surely as bullets.

LEAHKills what?

MIADreams. Cynicism is anger; anger is poison to the soul. It deadens the heart and keeps people from realizing their dreams.

LEAHOther people keep people from realizing their dreams.

8.

MIAOnly if you let them.

Leah is at a loss for an answer, wondering about this unusual woman. Suddenly Marie jumps in excitedly wearing the necklace she was admiring earlier.

MARIEMommy, can I have this necklace?!

MIAOh, it looks so beautiful on you!

LEAHLet me see how much it costs.

(checks for price tag, can’t find it)

I don’t see a...(Leah looks over to Mia, smiling.)

Don’t tell me.

MIAIt’s a gift.

LEAHMia, you can’t be giving all your stuff away.

MIAI don’t.

MARIEThank you! Thank you!

MIA(to Marie)

You’re very welcome! I’m especially happy that you chose that necklace. I made that necklace myself with very special pearls.

MARIEYou did? Wow.

LEAHThose aren’t real pearls?

MIANot in the way you’re thinking.These are pearls of wisdom.

LEAHPearls of wisdom?

9.

MIAI put a special message within each pearl.

MARIEHow can you do that?

MIAEasy! I held each pearl in my hand and transferred some of my thoughts into the jewels. And at just the right time the message emerges from within. Wise words to help you, everybody.

MARIEHow will I hear them?

MIAYou’ll won’t hear them so much as feel them. They’re cosmic whispers.

(To Leah)And after you feel them you’ll know what to do when the time comes to do something very important.

Leah looks almost hypnotised as she gazes into Mia’s eyes.

MIA (CONT’D)Let me place these blocks into their special bag.

Mia reaches into a drawer and pulls out a beautiful purple felt BAG and gently places each block into the bag.

MARIEYou’re gettin’ the blocks?

LEAHYes.

MARIEHow come?

LEAHI don’t know, really. They’re a gift from Mia.

Mia seems to know. She places the final block into the bag and hands it to Leah.

LEAH (CONT’D)Thank you so much for the blocks and necklace.

10.

MIAIt’s my pleasure.

LEAHWell, we’d getter get out of here before you give us the whole store.

Leah and Marie start for the exit.

MIAI hope you come back real soon. Don’t feel you have to buy anything. We can just visit.

MARIEWe’ll be back!

MIAHave a nice trip!

LEAH(as they walk towards the door)

Trip? What trip?

MARIEAre you going somewhere, mommy?

LEAHNot that I know of.

Leah and Marie reach the door. Leah looks over at Mia smiling and waving to her. Leah waves back a bit unnerved and walks out.

MARIE(admiring her necklace)

That lady is kind of strange butI like her.

LEAHYeah, me too.

INT. KITCHEN – LATE THAT NIGHT

Leah sits alone at the kitchen table; the colorful wooden blocks are spread out before her. She’s still intrigued by their warmth as she holds one next to her cheek. Suddenly she’s inspired to take certain blocks and make the words:

COMIC STRIP

11.

Then Leah takes the S from the word STRIP and places it between the O and M of the word COMIC making the words:

COSMIC TRIP

She recalls/HEARS Mia’s VOICE: “They’re cosmic whispers” and “Have a nice trip”. A slight chill suddenly sweeps over Leah.

INT. BEDROOM – NEXT MORNING

Chuck and Leah are sound asleep. Greta is cuddled contentedly next to Leah. As usual the clock/radio clicks on and awakens them. Chucks groans loudly.

NEWSCASTERResponding to recent tightenedsanctions, North Korea has threatenedto turn America and its followers intoa “sea of fire” by unleashing itsnuclear warheads.

Leah turns the radio off, weakened by the news.

INT. BATHROOM – MOMENTS LATER

Leah stands before the mirror.

LEAHToday the miracle happens. Today all the anger, hatred and fear in the world will disappear. Today I get a comic strip contract. Today everything will make perfect sense. Today hell freezes over.

Leah HEARS Mia’s admonition: “Cynicism kills just as surely as bullets.” She contemplates the words.

INT. LEAH’S WORK ROOM/STUDIO – LATER

Leah is busy working on “Peaches the Pup”. She HEARS CHUCK entering through the front door. He calls out to her.

LEAH (CONT’D)I’m in here!

After a moment Chuck cautiously enters the room, at once trying to measure Leah’s mood. He’s hiding something behind his back.

12.

CHUCKHi. How ya doin’?

LEAHGood! I’ve had a very productiveday. I’ve got a fresh batch of“Peaches the Pup” comic strips tosend off. I think it’s some of mybest work yet!

CHUCKThat’s great! “Peaches the Pup” is really a terrific comic strip! It’s major league all the way!

Leah quickly senses something is wrong and knows what it is.

LEAHHand it over.

Chuck painfully reveals a large manila ENVELOPE that he was hiding behind his back. Leah grimaces at the sight. He hands it to her. It’s heavy in her hand.

CHUCKSorry. This doesn’t mean that “Peaches the Pup” isn’t the best comic strip in the world!

LEAHYeah, thanks.

(reads return address)World-Wide Syndications. Damn.

Leah opens the envelope and pulls out a cover letter and numerous “Peaches the Pup” comic strips.

LEAH (CONT’D)(reading from the letter)

“Dear Ms. Swenson: Thank you forallowing us the opportunity to consider your comic strip “Peachesthe Pup” for syndication. Althoughwe found the artwork to be excellentand the dialogue funny, it is ourcurrent policy to not develop comicstrips whose featured character is ananimal. Best of luck to you and “Peaches the Pup”. Sincerely, JosephHoffman, comics editor, World-WideSyndications.”

(stops reading)No dogs allowed.

13.

Chuck puts a reassuring, comforting arm around Leah who accepts it gladly.

CHUCKThey made a mistake.

LEAHI don’t know. Are they all mistaken?There are so many. I always thought I had a destiny in this business. I have to seriously consider that I may be the most self-deluded fool to have ever walked this Earth.

EXT. BACK YARD – THAT NIGHT

Chuck is on the patio putting golf balls into a practice hole. Leah and Marie are standing in the garden, gazing up at a star-clustered sky. Marie is still wearing her new necklace.

LEAH (CONT’D)What a beautiful sky! Every littlestar is making an appearance tonight.

MARIEHow many stars are there, mommy?

LEAHThere are almost as many stars asthere are excuses from you as to why you can’t make your bed in the morning.

MARIEWow! That’s a lot!

Suddenly a glorious white flash of light streaks across the sky.

LEAH/MARIEOooh! A shooting star!

LEAHLift your arms up, Marie!

Leah lifts her arms upwards in a position of receptivity.

MARIEWhy, mommy?

Marie lifts her arms skyward. Chuck looks over in wonder.

14.

CHUCKWhat are you doing?

MARIEYeah, what are we doing?

LEAHWe’re absorbing the energy of a shooting star.

MARIEWe are?

LEAHWhen I was a little girl my grand-mother told me that shooting starscame from special black holes that are actually openings into magical tunnels that transform whatever goes through them into pure, unconditional love. She called them, tunnels of love. And love is the light at the end of the tunnel.

Leah lets her arms drop down. Marie does the same.

LEAH (CONT’D)And then all that pure love energy bursts out of each tunnel in glorious showers of shooting stars that travel throughout the universe to places most in need of love. As the stars fly overhead they spray unlimited amounts of love energy over everyone and everything below.

Everyone pauses reflectively for a moment. Then...

MARIEWhat’s a black hole?

LEAHBlack holes are actually stars thathave imploded. That means they’vecollapsed upon themselves.

CHUCKSort of like your daddy after he misses an easy short putt. It’s getting late. Time for bed, young lady.

Chuck sweeps Marie up, much to her delight, and places her atop his shoulders. They head towards the house.

15.

CHUCK (CONT’D)I’ve never heard that shooting starstory before. I like it.

LEAHI’d forgotten it until tonight. Something must have jarred it loose.Funny, I’ve been seeing a lot of shooting stars lately.

CHUCKEvidently this world is hurtingfor love.

LEAH...Yeah.

Chuck wraps an arm around Leah’s shoulder and pulls her closer. She enjoys the embrace and wraps her arm around him.

INT. MARIE’S BEDROOM – LATER THAT NIGHT

Leah is helping Marie into bed. We can see Marie’s new necklace on the night stand.

MARIEMommy, is that story about special black holes changing everything into love true?

LEAHWell, nobody’s been able to prove that it’s not true.

MARIEI hope it’s true.

LEAHLet’s believe that it is true, okay?

MARIEOkay.

LEAHLove you

MARIELove you.

Marie nestles in, falling quickly asleep. Leah gazes down with an overwhelming love. Yet, there is deep sadness in her eyes. She rises, turns out the light and leaves.

16.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – MOMENTS LATER

Leah enters the room. Her cat Greta is comfortably sprawled out across the top of her desk. She goes over to pet her.

LEAHHi, Greta. You’ve really got a good life. Eat, sleep, poop. Eat, sleep, poop. So jealous.

Leah notices the rejection letter she got that afternoon and picks it up..

LEAH (CONT’D)Here’s another one, Greta.

She walks over to a file cabinet and opens the top drawer. Sitting on top of the cabinet is a PLACARD that reads:

WHEN A TRUE GENIUS APPEARS INTHE WORLD, YOU MAY KNOW HIM BYTHIS SIGN, THAT ALL THE DUNCESARE IN CONFEDERACY AGAINST HIM.- Jonathan Swift.

The word “HIM” is scratched out and replaced with “HER”. Leah pulls out a thick folder of papers labeled: ‘THE CONFEDERACY’.

LEAH (CONT’D)Everybody, I’d like to introduce youto the new dunce in the confederacy,His name is Joe Hoffman of WorldwideSyndications. Let’s all give Joe abig kick in the butt hello.

Leah jams the letter into the folder then shoves the folder into the drawer and slams it shut.

LEAH (CONT’D)I wish I could give him a good kick in the butt. I think I’d really enjoy that. Boom! Right in the ol’ keester. Probably not a good career move. I’d have to send someone else to do it for me. Somebody who’s not afraid to let it be known that she’s really angry.

Just then Leah’s cat Greta meows. Leah is inspired.

LEAH (CONT’D)Yeah, Greta. Somebody just like youwhen I’m late with your dinner! Greta,

(MORE)

17.

you can be my representative! I’ll just draw it! What the hell.

With a burst of inspiration, Leah sits down at her desk, grabs a pencil and paper and instantly begins to draw.

LEAH (CONT’D)Greta, I’m going to make you muchbigger so that you can really packa wallop, with more of a human form.A full-figured gal, dressed in a simple outfit, casual top and skirt.

The character almost appears to be drawing itself.

LEAH (CONT’D)But just because you’re tough doesn’tmean you can’t be feminine. How ‘bout nice pearl necklace just like the one Marie got today? A pretty ribbon in her hair. And a big purse full of...

She’s stumped, but then suddenly words pop out of Leah’s mouth. She writes them down on a separate piece of paper, reading them out loud as she does.

FOR NOW MY PURSE MUST REMAIN EMPTY. BUT COME SOMEDAY. THAT VERY SPECIAL ONE DAY. MY PURSE WILL BE FILLED APLENTY.

LEAH (CONT’D)A rhyme? Where did that come from? What does it mean?

(shakes it off)Okay, we’ve drawn the kicker so now let’s draw the kickee.

Again Leah’s pencil seems to have a life of its own and quickly manifests the recipient of Greta’s foot.

LEAH (CONT’D)I see this guy as sort of a fat head. A little bit of hair to match his little bit of imagination. A dunce cap, of course. And he wears clothes that were never in style and never will be. All right, now what should we say to this dunce?

Again the rhyme surfaces effortlessly as she writes them down.

LEAH (CONT’D)

18.

YOU MUST BE A DUNCE!THERE'S NO OTHER EXPLANATION!REJECTING “PEACHES THE PUP”SHOWS ZERO IMAGINATION!

LEAH (CONT’D)Another rhyme? And it was so easy.

Leah recalls/HEARS Mia’s earlier words, “Rhymes are a special way of communicating”. Leah finishes the sketch by drawing a dialogue balloon around the words then looks at it with amused satisfaction. Suddenly Chuck pops into the room.

CHUCKHey, ya gonna work all night?

He comes closer and notices the drawing.

CHUCK (CONT’D)What’s this?

LEAHTherapy.

CHUCKI like it! Good rhyme. Feel better?

LEAHNot much.

CHUCKI have some therapy in mind that’sguaranteed to work miracles.

LEAHI don’t believe in miracles.

CHUCKSaid the woman who prays for a miracle every day. Let the miracle man work his wonders on you.

Chuck swoops in and scoops Leah up in his arms. It’s more of an effort than he anticipated.

CHUCK (CONT’D)Uff-da! This reminds me that I needto buy a bag of rock salt tomorrow.

LEAHYa really know how to sweet talk a gal.

19.

Chuck laughs it off and carries Leah out of the room and across the hall into their bedroom.

INT. BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS

CHUCKDo you feel like Scarlet O’Hara?

LEAHNo. I feel like a bag of rock salt.

Chuck clumsily places Leah on their bed. Chuck wipes his brow.

CHUCKI need to start working out.

LEAHI think you mean I need to start working out.

CHUCKNot at all! And any weight you’ve put on is in all the right places.

LEAHChuck, I know the language of love is like speaking Chinese for you, but could you try a little harder, please? Say something romantic.

CHUCKOkay. Do you have your diaphragm in?

LEAHI was thinking more like, “Leah, you look so beautiful and desirable. I love you so much.”

CHUCKI was getting to that. I just wantedto be sure that everything’s in placebefore everything’s in place.

LEAHOf course my diaphragm isn’t in. It’s not something you wear all day long. I’ll get it. Meanwhile, you think of some romantic things to say to me.

Leah makes a move towards the bathroom.

20.

CHUCKLeah, let’s not use any birth control!

Leah stops in her tracks.

LEAHThat’s not romantic talk. That’s crazytalk.

CHUCKLeah, we’ve always planned on havinganother baby. Let’s give Marie thatbaby brother or sister she wants somuch. That we want so much.

Leah knows what she wants to say but can’t say it.

CHUCK (CONT’D)Come on! Let’s plunge ahead!

LEAHYou make it sound like we’re un-clogging the toilet.

CHUCKThis will be much more fun! You dowant another kid, don’t you?

LEAHMore than I can say.

CHUCKThen let’s get crackin’!

LEAHAgain, your choice of words. Chuck,you’ve caught me off guard. I needsome time to think before actuallytaking that big non-contraceptive“plunge”. I’ll get my diaphragm.Meanwhile think of something romanticto say. Actually don’t say anything.

Leah escapes to the bathroom feeling the weight of withholding the truth from Chuck. Chuck wonders why Leah has lost her enthusiasm to have another child. He almost says something but wisely resists.

INT. LEAH’S BEDROOM – NEXT MORNING

Leah and Chuck are asleep; the radio/clock clicks ON.

21.

NEWSCASTER/RADIOFollowing the devastating U.S. missilestrike in a Pakistani border town about ten thousand people rallied in Karachi, Pakistan chanting “Death to America”.

Leah turns the radio off, stares off into space fearfully.

INT. BATHROOM – MOMENTS LATER

Leah stands before the mirror.

LEAHToday the miracle happens. Today all the anger, hatred and fear in the world will disappear. Today I get a comic strip contract. Today everything will make perfect sense. Today hell freez....

Leah stops as she recalls/HEARS Mia’s words: “Cynicism kills just as surely as bullets”.

INT. BATHROOM/SHOWER – MINUTES LATER

Leah is lost in the calming massage of the warm, soothing water. Without warning Chuck pokes his head into the stall, shocking Leah out of her reverie.

CHUCKBye!

LEAHYeeiiea!! Geez, Chuck you startled me!

CHUCKSorry. Who’d you think I was, NormanBates? I’m leaving early. I have tomake a stop at the post office.

LEAHYou are? Can you mail something for me?

CHUCKOf course.

LEAHI have a stack of comic strips onmy drafting table. They’re all ready to go.

(MORE)

22.

Just slip them into the envelope addressed to United Press Syndicate. And make sure the cover letter is on top. Can you do that?

CHUCKI think I can handle that.

LEAHNo, I’d better do it.

CHUCKNo. I’ll do it. Just enjoy your shower.

(looking her over)Ya know, you really do look great.See ya later.

A quick kiss goodbye then Chuck heads for Leah’s studio.

LEAHTell me that sometime when I’m not naked!

INT. STUDIO – MOMENTS LATER

Chuck enters to find Greta sprawled sleepily on top of the comic strips to be mailed out.

CHUCKGreat. Another battle between theunstoppable force and the immovableobject.

Chucks taps Greta gently on the butt. She doesn’t budge.

CHUCK (CONT’D)Greta, I don’t have time for this.I’m going right to the heavy artillery.

Chuck gently flicks his finger on her butt causing Greta to leap forcefully from the desk, scattering the comic stripsacross the floor.

CHUCK (CONT’D)Darn it, Greta! Look what you’ve done!

Chuck considers asking for Leah’s assistance but resists. He decides to quickly gather the papers himself. Greta seems to enjoy watching Chuck’s frantic efforts.

LEAH (CONT'D)

23.

CHUCK (CONT’D)You think you won, Greta, but youdidn’t. I did. I made you move. Granted, this victory doesn’t feel as good as the others.

Finally Chuck has all the papers together. Being careful to have the cover letter on top, he slips the comic strips into the envelope and seals it. As he passes Greta, he gently rubs her under her chin.

CHUCK (CONT’D)‘Til next time.

INT. LEAH’S WORK ROOM/STUDIO – THAT AFTERNOON

Leah is looking about for something, but can’t find it. She’s puzzled.

EXT. BACK YARD – LATER THAT NIGHT

Leah stands looking up at the sky. The warm night breeze seems to calm her as she takes deep breaths. Suddenly Leah is startled by an awesome SHOOTING STAR streaking across the sky. She lifts her arms up to catch the energy.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – LATER

Leah is sitting on the floor gazing up at a beautiful POSTER of the Hale Bopp Comet on her wall. The wooden blocks lay before her. She’s compelled to take certain blocks and spell out the name

HALE BOPP COMET.

She studies the words for a moment; from the name HALE she moves the blocks around to spell her own name

LEAH.

She then switches the L with the H to spell the word

HEAL.

Taking the two P’s and the O from BOPP the E from COMET and the L from HEAL, Leah makes the word

PEOPLE.

LEAH“Leah, heal people?”

24.

Leah is ever more perplexed.

INT. LEAH’S BEDROOM – LATER THAT NIGHT

Leah is sleeping fitfully. Her cat Greta sleeps soundly nextto her, as does Chuck.

INT. KITCHEN – NEXT MORNING

Leah is preparing breakfast. Marie is seated at the table playing with her electronic game. Chuck stands next to Leah pouring coffee for the two of them.

LEAHI had the most incredible dream last night.

CHUCKReally? (whispers) Were there any wild sex scenes?

LEAHNo. That’s your dream. I dreamt I was flying in deep space, with a great sense of urgency.

CHUCKLike Superman? Or were you flapping your arms like a bird?

LEAHNeither. I was being pulled by something. I don’t know exactly what.Something bright. And I was hangingon for dear life. I had this bighand bag full of something. It was so heavy I could barely fly.

CHUCKWhat was in it?

LEAHI don’t know. Whatever it was felt very powerful...evil.

CHUCKEvil?

LEAHI was horrified by the thought of dropping the bag and having all the contents escape.

25.

CHUCKWhere were you going with it?

LEAHI don’t know. Somewhere far, far away in deep outer space.

CHUCKWell, I’m glad you’re not going there. You’re needed down here on Earth.

LEAHWhat on Earth for?

EXT. UNITED FEATURES SYNDICATE – LATER THAT MORNING

INT. CONFERENCE ROOM

Sitting at the head of a large table is ED WEBSTER – CEO of United Features Syndicate. Ed is an amiable, old veteran of the comic strip business. Sitting around the table with him is senior editor FRANK OLANDER, another old veteran but more on the cranky side, JERRY NORDLING, a young junior editor and LENNY SCHMIDT, forty-something salesman, timid, reeks of insecurity. Tension fills the room.

EDOur situation is becoming bleak. We haven’t sold a new comic strip in a long time! Why aren’t newspapers buying our comic strips?

FRANKBecause Lenny is a lousy salesman!

LENNYI am not! Nobody can sell the crap you give me to sell!

FRANKIt’s not crap! Your sales technique is what’s crap!

LENNYThe features editors don’t think the strips you’ve picked are funny!

FRANKYou have to convince them they’re funny! Sell the product! Twist theirarm!

26.

LENNYI’m a salesman not a wrestler!

FRANKLucky for you. If you were a wrestler you’d be getting your butt kicked!

JERRYHold that thought!

FRANKWhat thought?

JERRYOf Lenny getting his butt kicked!

FRANKWhat are you talking about?

JERRYThis!

Jerry whips out the sketch Leah drew of Greta kicking the comics editor’s butt. Ed, Frank and Lenny are befuddled.

EDWhat’s that, Jerry?

JERRYOur saviour. The next “Big Thing” that’s gonna save this syndication!

FRANKJerry, I know you’re new to our business so I’m going to cut you some slack. Just put that sketch away and we’ll all agree to never mention it again to spare you any further embarrassment.

JERRYWhat’s embarrassing is the rate at which the comic strips you choose to develop are being rejected. Lenny’s right, they’re crap!

LENNYYeah!

JERRY(to Lenny)

And Frank is right about you being a lousy salesman.

27.

LENNYHey!?

JERRYYou couldn’t sell matches to a pyromaniac.

LENNYI wouldn’t sell matches to any kind of maniac!

(whispers to Ed)What’s a pyromaniac?

EDJerry, you’re being awfully harsh. Frank, Lenny and I have worked together a long time. I have absolute respect for both of them. We’ve had many successes together.

JERRYI’m just saying that whatever it was that worked for you guys before isn’t working now. And I apologize if I went a little over the top.

FRANK(to Jerry)

Your apology is insincere and worthless. And I’d expect nothing more from you.

LENNYYeah!

JERRYIt was sincere but now I’m taking it back!

EDGentlemen! I know we’re all passionate about comic strips but let’s try and maintain some semblance of civility!

(indicating the sketch)Jerry, let me see that.

FRANKEd!?

Jerry hands the sketch to Ed.

EDWhat’s the premise?

28.

JERRYShe kicks stupid people in the butt and yells at them in rhyme!

FRANKWhat!?

LENNYI can’t sell that.

JERRYThis particular dunce happens to be a comics editor who looks a lot like you Frank.

LENNYYeah, it does. What a coincidence.

ED(reading from the sketch)

You must be a dunce!There’s no other explanation!Rejecting “Peaches the Pup”Shows zero imagination!

(stops reading)Who’s “Peaches the Pup”?

JERRYSome lousy comic strip the artist submitted. The kind of saccharin crap Frank likes to promote. I think this sketch was accidentally included in the submission, lucky for us.

FRANKEd, really. We’re better than this. Kicking butts?

JERRYComic strips have long enjoyed a great tradition of butt kicking! Mr. Ditherskicking Dagwood’s butt! The Sargekicking Beetle Baily’s butt! Garfieldkicking that little dog’s butt! Butt-kicking never goes out of fashion!

EDIs this all you have? One rough sketch?

JERRYSo far. I suspect there’s a lot more where that came from.

29.

Ed studies the sketch, trying to decide.

FRANKGood grief! Ed!?

(drops onto his chair in despair)

A butt-kicking cat who talks in rhyme. What’s next? A dog who punches people in the nose and speaks Pig Latin?!

LENNYI think I could sell that!

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – LATER THAT DAY

Leah is sitting at her drafting table doodling STARS on some scratch paper, lost in thought. The TV is on to CNN NEWS. The topic changes and instantly grabs Leah's attention.

NEWSCASTERToday President Obama disclosed that Iran is only one year away from having a nuclear bomb.

LEAHOh, well that’s just friggin’ great!

INT. LIVING ROOM – SAME MOMENT

Chuck and Marie enter through the front door in good spirits. They stop in their tracks at the sound of Leah bellowing from within her studio. The outburst frightens Marie.

LEAH (O.S.)What the hell!!? Why don’t we all just drop one huge bomb on each other and get it other with!! And please drop it right on my head!

CHUCKMarie, why don’t you go play in the backyard for a while.

MARIEOkay.

Marie runs off. Chuck hurries to Leah’s studio.

LEAH (O.S.)Let’s have a bomb party!! BYOB!! Bring Your Own Bomb!

(MORE)

30.

This will give new meaning to the phrase, “Boy, I really got bombed last night!”

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – CONTINUOUS

Chuck bursts into the room startling Leah.

CHUCKWhat the hell is wrong with you? Your ranting is scaring our child to death!

LEAHI didn’t know you were home. Where’s Marie?

CHUCKShe’s in the back yard. Probably digging a bomb shelter.

(looking at the TV)Leah, you have to stop listening to the news all day. I’m afraid it might drive you nuts!

LEAHMight? I am nuts! What person in their right mind wouldn’t be? I need to know what’s going on.

CHUCKYou’ve become some kind of a news junkie.

LEAHThat’s right, I’m a news junkie. I’m hooked on information. Quick! Call the Betty Ford Clinic! I’m craving a newspaper!

CHUCKI have a better solution.

Chuck grabs the TV remote and turns the TV off.

CHUCK (CONT’D)There. Cold turkey.

LEAHThank you, Doctor Denial. I feel better already. Perhaps you’d also like to prescribe that I watch countless hours of mind-numbing sports? Like yourself?

LEAH (O.S.) (CONT'D)

31.

CHUCKYou don’t see me ranting and raving.

LEAHYou’re right, I don’t. What’s wrong with you?

The PHONE RINGS. Leah, grateful for the interruption, quickly answers it.

LEAH (CONT’D)Hello?

MAN’S VOICEHello, this is Jerry Nordling ofUnited Features Syndicate calling for Leah Swenson.

INTERCUT BETWEEN LEAH AND JERRY.

LEAHThis is Leah…?

JERRYHi, Leah, this is Jerry Nordling ofUnited Features. How are you?

LEAHFine.

JERRYGood. Leah, I have in my hand your submission of “Peaches the Pup”.

LEAHYes!?

JERRYBut what really has my interest isthis sketch of a big cat kicking, who appears to be, a comics editor in the butt and talks rhyme.

LEAHWhat?! How’d you get that?

JERRYIt was in with the other drawings.

LEAHYou mean you’re not calling about“Peaches the Pup”?

32.

JERRYNo. I’m interested in the cat. Who is she?

LEAHShe’s someone who’s not nearly asfunny or cute as “Peaches the Pup”.

JERRYAnd that’s what I like about her. Would it be possible to meet and talkabout developing this cat character?

LEAHWhat? No. “Peaches the Pup” is the strip to develop! It’s wonderful!

JERRYIt may be but I’m not interested in “Peaches the Pup”.

LEAHWell, then. I guess we’ve got nothing more to talk about.

JERRYI think you’re making a mistake.

LEAHYou’re the one making the mistake.

JERRYPlease give it more thought. If you change your mind give me a call. Good-bye.

Jerry hangs up disappointed, frustrated. Leah hangs up in disbelief.

STAY ON LEAH.

LEAHWell, if that ain’t a kick in the butt.

CHUCKWhat?

LEAHRemember that sketch I did of a big cat kicking a comics editor in the butt?

33.

CHUCKYeah?

LEAHSomehow it was included with the“Peaches the Pup” comic strips that you mailed for me. No wonder I couldn’t find it.

CHUCK(remembering)

Oh...I know what happened. It was Greta’s fault.

LEAHThat’s pretty weak, blaming a cat.

CHUCKShe was lying on top of the “Peachesthe Pup” strips. When I gentlynudged her to move she jumped andsent the pile flying onto the floor.I must have accidentally included itwith the “Peaches” strips when I gathered the papers together. What’s up?

LEAHUnited Features Syndicate wants todevelop the butt-kicking cat intosome sort of comic strip.

CHUCKAnd you said, “No?” Why? I thought it was your passion to work in the comic strip business?

LEAHNo. My passion was and is getting“Peaches the Pup” into syndication.Not some absurd, angry, fat cat whotalks in rhyme.

CHUCKYou finally have something somebodywants. The door is wide open and youslam it shut. What’s that all about?What are you afraid of?

LEAH...Everything.

Suddenly Marie cautiously appears in the doorway.

34.

MARIEWhat’s the matter, mommy? Are theterrorists coming?

Leah rushes over to her and hugs her dearly.

LEAHNo, Marie. No.

MARIEWhy were you yelling?

LEAHI was just watching a movie and acting along with it and I got a little carried away. I over-acted.Everything’s fine. There’s nothing to worry about. I’m sorry, honey.

MARIEMommy, you’re a good actor.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – LATER

Leah is working on a rough draft of a “Peaches the Pup” comic strip but her thoughts are elsewhere. Suddenly she’s hit by an impulse and grabs a fresh piece of paper and begins sketching. Again, it’s the cat character. Dialogue jumps out of Leah and again she can actually hear it as the sketch becomes animated. Note: Taking artistic license for greater effect, all sketches and comic strips will be animated, freeze-framing on the final panel.

YOU AND IARE A MOST SPECIAL TEAM.TOGETHER WE MUST TRYTO REALIZE THE DREAM.

THERE ARE MANY PATHSBUT ONLY ONE IS RIGHT.JUST LISTEN TO YOUR HEARTAND WATCH THE CAT TAKE FLIGHT.

Leah is fearful that she may be losing her mind. She contemplates the words carefully. She picks up the phone.

INT. JERRY NORDLING’S OFFICE – NEXT DAY

It’s a small cluttered office. The walls are covered with framed, original autographed COMIC STRIPS. Jerry is seated behind a desk covered with comic strip submissions and sales kits. He’s studying Leah’s cat sketch, lost in thought. There’s a knock on the door.

35.

JERRYCome in!

Leah enters nervously. She has a large envelope in her hands.

LEAHJerry Nordling? Hi, I’m Leah Swenson.

Jerry rises excitedly to shake her hand.

JERRYLeah, hi! Please, sit down! I’m soglad you changed your mind aboutdeveloping this character!

LEAH(sitting down)

I’ve changed my mind about talkingabout it.

JERRYOf course. What’s in the envelope,more drawings of people getting their butt kicked?

LEAHNo, more “Peaches the Pup” strips. I think if you take another look you’ll realize that “Peaches the Pup” is the comic strip to run with.

JERRYI admire your last ditch effort, butno. However, I would love to see morecat sketches.

LEAHThere aren’t any, just that one.

JERRYThis is it?! Then we really are starting out from scratch. Get it? Scratch? Cat?

LEAHYou’ve just confirmed my worst fear, that people who accept or reject funny comic strips have a lousy sense of humor.

JERRYI’m very excited about this character! She’s a very timely! She’s Every Man!

(MORE)

36.

Every Woman! Angry! Frustrated! Overweight!

LEAHIt’s great to be an American.

JERRYThe premise I have in mind for this cat, who needs a name, is this. Every day this cat visits “The Dunce of the Day” and kicks him or her in the butt for whatever idiotic thing he or she has done!

LEAHOnly dunces? No mutton heads, dodos, simpletons, imbeciles, nitwits, oafs, dumbbells, knuckleheads, lamebrains, idiots, lunkheads, goofs or goons?

JERRYNo. Just dunces. It’s a nice alliteration. ”Dunce of the Day”. And the rhymes will make it fun! What do you think?

LEAHHonestly? It sounds really dumb.

JERRYAllow me to quote the great MarshallMcLuhan:

“The great artist necessarily has his roots very deep in his own time - roots which embrace the most vulgar and commonplace fantasies and aspirations.”

LEAHHad I known vulgar and commonplacefantasies and aspirations were thesecret to greatness, I would havehad a lot more of them.

JERRYIt’s not too late!! Dream on! Dream on!

Jerry can see Leah is weakening.

JERRY (CONT’D)Come on! Give it the ol’ college try!

JERRY (CONT'D)

37.

LEAHI dropped out of college.

Leah is tortured by the choice, looking down upon her beloved “Peaches the Pup” strips.

LEAH (CONT’D)How long is the development deal?

JERRY...Six months.

LEAHSix months?! That’s a real vote of confidence.

JERRYThat’s the best I could do. You’relucky to get that. I got a lot ofresistance from the others about pursuing this. They’re not visionaries like me. Come on. What’s the worse that could happen?

LEAHIt becomes a huge success.

(pause)Okay.

JERRYYes!

LEAHIf I can have total creative control.

JERRYWhat?! Absolutely not! No new artist is ever given total creative control!

Leah starts to rise with conviction.

LEAHOkay, then I return to my real love,“Peaches the Pup”. I love Peaches.I’m not even sure I like this, whatever this is.

JERRYOkay, okay, you win. Consider ita gift from me. Let’s see six monthsfrom today is...

(Jerry flips through the pages on his desk calendar.)

(MORE)

38.

Christmas! What a coincidence. Gift?Christmas?

LEAHI get it.

Jerry extends his hand to Leah who shakes it halfheartedly.

JERRYCongratulations! Welcome to thegreatest business in the world! And we’ll have to find a name for this

(holds up sketch grandly)next big thing!

LEAHOh, brother...

INT. THRIFT SHOP – LATER THAT DAY

Leah enters the shop looking about anxiously. She spots Mia busy with a customer. They make eye contact and wave to each other. While Leah waits for Mia to conclude her business she scans a row of books on a shelf. Her attention is caught by a BOOK about the care of babies. She opens it and sees page after page of adorable baby faces. Leah’s heart aches for one. Mia cheerfully approaches Leah.

MIALeah!

LEAHMia!

MIAI’m glad to see ya! Can I help you with something?

LEAHI don’t know. I’m not even sure why I came here.

MIAMaybe you’ll know after you leave.

( notices the book in Leah’s hand)

Is there anything more precious thana baby?

LEAHThey’re angels. Adorable angels. What happens to us as we get older?

JERRY (CONT'D)

39.

MIAWe grow up to become adorable adultangels.

LEAHIf only.

(closes book) )You’d think that after millions of years of procreating we wouldn’t need books on how to raise a child. But then what do you expect from a race that brags about being smarter than a monkey.

MIAI expect them to perform miracles.

LEAH(returning the book to shelf)

You might have better luck with themonkeys.

MIADon’t be so hard on yourself. Youknow, the babies being born todayare very special souls who have cometo bring about a peaceful world.

LEAHHuh? Really?

MIATruly. So if you’re thinking of having a baby, now is the time.

(indicating a table full of various items piled in mess)

Do you mind if I straighten up the items on this table while we talk? I like to make order out of chaos.

LEAHIf only you could get inside my mind.

(to herself)Sort of feels like you already have.

Mia smiles knowingly as starts folding clothing, stacking books, etc.

LEAH (CONT’D)Mia, some very strange things havebeen happening to me since I was last in here.

40.

MIAOh? What?

LEAHI’ve been writing rhymes. Or moreaccurately they seem to be writingthemselves.

MIASounds like fun!

LEAHActually, it’s a bit disconcerting.And what a coincidence, you and Ijust had a conversation about rhymes.

MIADon’t you just love coincidences?Synchronicity can be such fun!

LEAHSynchronicity?

MIACoincidences with a purpose.

LEAHI don’t know about that.

MIAYou will. Tell me about the rhymes.

LEAHThe rhymes only surface when I’mdrawing this certain cat characterwho apparently talks in rhyme. She seems to be trying to communicate to me.

MIAOh? Communicating what?

LEAHSomething about being a team and realizing the dream.

MIAThat was a nice little rhyme.

LEAHNone of what is happening to me is making any sense to me.

41.

MIAI’m sure someday everything willmake perfect sense.

Hearing one of her daily affirmations coming back to her startles Leah. Mia is amused

LEAHAnd what about those blocks yougave me?

MIAAre you enjoying them?

LEAHYes. No. Sort of. They seem to compel me to make certain words with them. And then there are words within the words that seem to speak to me. But I’m not sure exactly what any of it means.

MIAWow! Between that rhyming cat and those talking blocks you have quitea dialogue going on.

LEAHBut who am I having this dialogue with?

MIAMaybe with yourself?

LEAHWhat do you mean?

MIAPerhaps it’s your inner voice.

LEAHMy inner voice?

MIAThat voice of truth that resides within each of us. The voice that never misleads you.

LEAHI don’t know if I’ve ever heard my inner voice. Are you sure I have one?

42.

MIAAbsolutely. I think your inner voice is so deeply buried under so many layers of anger, fear and doubt, and is so desperate to be heard that it’s been forced to take on a whole new form so that you can hear what you need to hear.

Leah notices a BOOK about the painter Georgia O’Keefe. Mia catches Leah’s glance.

LEAHIf my inner voice gets any louder, the whole world will hear it.

MIAMaybe the whole world needs to hear what your inner voice has to say? Before it’s too late.

LEAHToo late? Too late for what?

MIATo realize the dream.

LEAHWho are you?

MIAI’m Mia! Who are you?

Leah isn’t sure how to respond. Instead grabs the Georgia O’Keefe book.

LEAHI think I’ll buy this Georgia O’Keeffebiography. I’ve been meaning to get this book for quite a while. And here it is.

MIAWhat a coincidence.

LEAHHow much? I know. No charge.

MIANo, I’ll take a couple bucks.

43.

INT. JERRY NORDLING’S OFFICE – LATER THAT DAY

Jerry is straightening up his desk before leaving for the day. He comes across a large envelope on his desk. Curious, he pulls out the contents; it’s full of “Peaches the Pup” comic strips. He quickly shoves them back in, then casually tosses the envelope onto a bookshelf. He turns out the light as he leaves.

INT. LEAH’S KITCHEN – THAT EVENING

Leah is standing at the stove boiling noodles in a kettle and stirring sauce in a pan. Marie is sitting at the table happily coloring in a coloring book. The TV is ON to CNN doing a story about an event that happened earlier that day in a Washington state high school. Leah watches and shakes her head with despair.

TV NEWSCASTERToday a teacher was hailed as a hero after tackling a 16-year-old student who fired two shots into the air Monday at a high school in Lacey, Washington. No one was injured after the teenager shot toward the ceiling in the school commons before classes began at North Thurston High School. He is in custody.

MARIE(overhearing the TV)

Today at school we had a drill where we practiced what we’d do in case a man with a gun comes into our school and wants to shoots us!

LEAHWhat?!

MARIEYeah! Some of us hid in the closet and others hid behind the teacher’s desk.

LEAH(moving towards her)

Are you afraid of that happening?

MARIEI guess so.

Leah hugs her dearly.

44.

LEAHMarie, Don’t give that another thought. Okay? You’re perfectly safe. Don’t be afraid.

Marie enjoys the hug. Chuck can be heard entering the front door.

MARIEDaddy’s home!

Marie hurries to the broom closet and hides inside it, trying desperately not to giggle. Chuck enters the kitchen looking like he’s put in a rough day at the building site.

CHUCKMmmmm! Spaghetti!

He kisses Leah on the cheek.

LEAHIs “Mmmmm! Spaghetti!” code words for, “Hi, Honey. How’s my beautiful wife doing?”

CHUCKYou’ve broken the code.

Chuck kisses Leah. He hears a familiar giggle from the direction of the broom closet. He goes along with the game.

CHUCK (CONT’D)Leah, I think I hear that gigglingghost again.

LEAHYeah, that person must have diedlaughing.

In the wink of an eye Chuck opens the closet door and scares the heck out of Marie.

CHUCKBoo!!!

MARIEDaddy! You scared me!

CHUCKSee? That’s how you do it!

Chuck lifts Marie up and gives her a big hug. She giggles with delight.

45.

LEAHMarie, will you please go and wash for dinner?

MARIEDaddy’s dirty.

LEAHHe’ll be cleaning up, too.

Chuck puts her down. She runs off down the hallway.

CHUCKHow’d your meeting go today?

LEAHI’m accepting a development deal.

CHUCKFantastic! This is so exciting! I can’t wait to tell everyone!

LEAHActually, I’d appreciate it if you’d not tell anyone about this.

CHUCKWhat? Why not?

LEAHTo be honest, I’m embarrassed by the whole thing.

CHUCKEmbarrassed? Why?

LEAHIt’s dumb. I’ll probably use a pseudonym.

CHUCKA pseudonym? Geez, Louise, you’re a party pooper at your own party. Aren’t you the least bit excited?

LEAHI’m intrigued.

Chuck doesn’t know what to make of Leah.

INT. LEAH’S BEDROOM – LATER THAT NIGHT

Chuck and Leah are in bed. Chuck is struggling to keep his

46.

eyes open as he watches the golf channel on TV. Leah is next to him reading the biography of Georgia O’Keeffe. Greta is cuddled next to her. Something Leah has just read gives her a jolt.

LEAHThis is interesting. Georgia O’Keeffenever signed her paintings. Instead, she’d draw a star on the back.

Chuck snores a response. Leah looks over to a large Georgia O’Keefe print hanging on the wall.

LEAH (CONT’D)A star instead of a name...

EXT. UNITED FEATURES SYNDICATION – A FEW DAYS LATER

INT. JERRY NORDLING’S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS

Jerry is perusing the new sketches Leah has brought in, chuckling as he goes along. Leah mills about scanning the artwork on the walls.

JERRYSo, we’re calling her “Greta the Cat”?

LEAHIt’s just a name that popped into my head.

JERRYI like it. “Greta the Cat”. These new drawing are very good. Really good.

(thumbing through)Here’s the carry-out boy who put the bread on the bottom of the bag, tele-marketers, bad drivers, people who talk during movies. I really hate that. What’s the deal with this star in the corner?

LEAHThat’s how I’m signing the strip.

JERRYA star? Why a star?

LEAHSeems like a good idea.

47.

JERRYOkay. Who knows? Maybe the star gimmick will help Greta to take off?

LEAHIt’s not a gimmick. I don’t know what it is.

JERRYWhy don’t you use your own name?

LEAHFrankly, the whole thing embarrasses me. I don’t feel it truly reflects who I am as an artist.

JERRYNo, it reflects who you are as ahuman being. Maybe that’s what embarrasses you. Do you know what Popeye said about comic strip artists?

LEAHPopeye? Popeye the Sailor?

JERRYWhat other Popeye is there? He said: “A comic strip artist ain’t no different than you or me or anybody except’ he knows how to draw pitchers an’ is crazy in the head.”

LEAHInteresting observation from aspinach junkie. I yam what I yam.

JERRY’S OFFICE – LATER THAT DAY

Jerry is studying the “Greta the Cat” drawings, writing down notes. Frank bursts in excitedly with Lenny close behind. Frank has a promotional sales kit in hand.

FRANKThe Minneapolis Herald has an opening for another comic strip and wants us to submit two of our best strips for a test run. Do you have anything ready to submit?

JERRYThe local paper. Perfect. As a matter of fact, I do, from a local artist.

48.

Jerry shows him the latest drawings. Lenny and Frank groan.

JERRY (CONT’D)“Greta the Cat”!?

FRANK(remembering)

Oh, yeah, our “savior”. Why don’t we just call her “Jesus the Cat”?

LENNYI don’t think Christians would go for that.

FRANKWhat’s this in the corner? A star? What the hell is that all about?

JERRYThe artist wants to remain anonymousand has chosen to use a symbol ratherthan a pseudonym.

FRANKA symbol. Well, that takes this farce to a whole new level. “Greta the Joke” isn’t ready. She doesn’t even have a promotional sales kit yet.

LENNYYeah, I can’t sell something that doesn’t have a proper sales kit.

JERRYLenny, you could have ended that sentence at “I can’t sell”. Frank, what are you submitting?

FRANK(holds up promotional kit)

“Army Annie”.

JERRY“Army Annie”? “Beetle Bailey” in drag. A real laugh riot.

FRANK“Army Annie” has great commercial potential!

LENNYI’m gonna sell the hell out of it!

Frank gives Lenny the “Army Annie” sales kit.

49.

FRANKLenny, you’d better get going. They want this ASAP!

Frank and Lenny hustle out. Jerry sits back, fuming, thinking.

EXT. MINNEAPOLIS HERALD – LATER THAT AFTERNOON

INT. OFFICE OF FEATURES EDITOR - CONTINUOUS

JUDY GITLER, FEATURES EDITOR, scrutinizes a layout for a page in the variety section of the newspaper. Jerry enters with great enthusiasm.

JERRYJudy! Good! You’re still here!

JUDYStill here? I’m always here. What are you doing here, Jerry?

JERRYI have a replacement comic strip for one of the strips Lenny dropped off earlier.

JUDYA replacement for “Army Annie”, I hope. That’s a real stinker.

JERRYJudy, you’re so good at your job. Which is why I know you’re going to love “Greta the Cat”.

Jerry hands Judy a folder full of “Greta the Cat” comic strips.

JUDY“Greta the Cat”? No sales kit?

JERRYIt’s being printed up. “Greta the Cat” is my latest discovery.

JUDY(flipping through pages)

What’s the deal with the star?

JERRYThat’s how the artist is signing the comic strip.

50.

JUDYStrange. Is this all the cat does is kick people in the butt?

JERRYNo! She also yells at them in rhyme so the kids will love it, too! Every day is a different dunce. A “Dunce of the Day”. The strip could run forever!

JUDYI don’t know, Jerry. I’d better check with my editor.

JERRYYour editor?! You want to get permission from the dunce who passed on “Dilbert”? And you got the blame!

JUDYI know! I wanted “Dilbert”!

JERRY“Greta the Cat” visits people likeyour boss. Let’s face it, he’s an out of touch dinosaur who should be retired to Jurassic park. He needs agood kick in the butt to send him onhis way.

JUDYIf only I could.

JERRYNow’s your chance figuratively. Think of the bragging rights for being the person who discovered “Greta the Cat”. This moment could be a turning point in your career. What’s it going to be? Does your name go down in comic strip history as a brave visionary? Or does your name go on “Greta the Cat’s” list of people deserving of a good kick in the butt?

Judy is torn about what to do.

JERRY (CONT’D)Come on. Just a test run. Get some reaction.

51.

INT. LEAH’S WORK ROOM/STUDIO – LATER THAT AFTERNOON

Leah is on the phone appearing dazed.

LEAHWhat? Please tell me. I hate surprises.

INT. LEAH AND CHUCK’S BEDROOM – NEXT MORNING

Leah is in bed, half-asleep. Chuck bursts into the room newspaper in hand and jumps into bed.

CHUCKHere it is! Under “Blondie”!

Chuck holds the paper up for Leah to see. She takes a sleepy look.

LEAHYeah. Wow. It really is in there.

CHUCKIt looks great! There’s your littlestar!

LEAHEverything is happening so fast.

CHUCKWhen did you get so good at making up rhymes?

LEAHA couple of months ago. It just sort of kicked in on its own.

CHUCKPun intended I presume.

LEAHNo. And that worries me.

The PHONE RINGS. Leah picks it up. Jerry is on the other end.

JERRYLeah, did you see “Greta the Cat” in the newspaper?!

LEAHYes. I’m looking at it right now.

52.

JERRYCongratulations! You’ve made it to the comic pages!

LEAHI did, didn’t I? Although nobody knowsit.

JERRYJust the way you wanted it. Excited!?

LEAHNo.

JERRYWatch ‘The Today Show’ at 8:25!

LEAHWhat? Why?

JERRYIt’s a surprise!

LEAHPlease! No more surprises!

JERRY(laughing)

Don’t miss it! I gotta run! Talk to ya later!

Leah hangs up, checks the time on the alarm clock: 8:05.

EXT. UNITED FEATURES SYNDICATION – LATER THAT MORNING

INT. ED WEBSTER’S OFFICE

The office walls are adorned with numerous comic strips from today and days gone by. Ed is seated behind his desk listening to an excited Jerry.

JERRYEd, I know I broke protocol, and I apologize for that, but I just couldn’t let Frank get in the way of Greta’s success. I can’t wait to see his face when...

Suddenly Frank and Lenny burst into the room. Frank holds up the comics section of the newspaper dramatically.

53.

FRANKEd, I assure you that I had nothingto do with this embarrassment!

LENNYMe, neither!

JERRYLet the record show, they have nothing to do with “Greta the Cat.”

FRANKJerry went behind all our backs and submitted “Greta the Cat” to the Minneapolis Herald. I can’t believe Judy Gitler would even accept this garbage!?

JERRYShe did because when God passed outbrains, he gave her yours and when he passed out balls he gave her Lenny’s.

LENNYHey, I have more balls than any woman on earth!

FRANKEd, I think we should pull the stripand issue a public apology!

Jerry checks his watch then grabs the TV remote control and turns the TV ON to ‘The Today Show’.

FRANK (CONT’D)TV?! We’re not here to watch TV!We’re here to discuss why you shouldn’t be fired!

EDFrank, this morning on....

JERRYEd, let it be a surprise.

FRANKA surprise?

JERRYPrepare to crap your pants! If you haven’t already. Watch!

54.

The TV show comes back from a commercial. The usual “gang” is gathered around the main desk. The segment begins with Savannah Guthrie talking.

SERIES OF ANGLES

SAVANNAHThis morning I was going to talk about the new George Clooney movie I saw last night but instead I’m going to talk about why I had a such lousy movie experience. And it had nothing to do with the film itself. It had to do with the rude people sitting behind me. People who could not shut their big mouths the entire evening.

The “gang” murmers their understanding.

SAVANNAH (CONT’D)No thought was too small or too stupidto say out loud. And any attempt toquiet them was met with total indifference. Well, by coincidence, this morning I got this amazing fax from United Features Syndication. It’s this awesome comic strip called “Greta the Cat”.

Savannah holds up a blown-up version of the comic strip. Frank and Lenny collapse into chairs in total disbelief. Jerry can barely contain his glee.

JERRYHear that? “Awesome comic strip”!

SAVANNAHEvidently, Greta had the same problem as I did last night only she handled it in a way I wish I could have.

The CAMERA ZOOMS IN for a TIGHT SHOT of the COMIC STRIP.

LARAI’ll read the part of Greta, and Al you read the part of the dunce.

ALHey, should I feel insulted?

Everyone chuckles as Al moves in closer to Savannah.

55.

PANEL ONE: Greta is fuming over the person behind her talking out loud to a friend. We HEAR the person talking and Greta’s thought bubbles.

TALKER/ALI LOVE THIS POPCORN! IT’S SOYUMMY! HOW’S YOUR HOTDOG?

GRETA/SAVANNAHI’VE ASKED THEM ONCE.I’VE ASKED THEM TWICE.

PANEL TWO: Greta has steam coming out of her ears.

TALKER/ALDO YOU THINK THIS IS REAL BUTTER? DOESN’T MATTER! SUPER TASTY!

GRETA/SAVANNAHSome people don’t respond to nice.

PANEL THREE: Greta grabs the talker by the nose.

GRETA/SAVANNAH (CONT’D)DON’T TALK DURING THE MOVIE!YOU INCONSIDERATE DUNCE!YOUR LOUD, STUPID COMMENTSMUST STOP AT ONCE!

INT. LEAH’S KITCHEN – SAME MOMENT

Both Leah and Chuck are dumbstruck as they watch “The Today Show” on their TV.

PANEL FOUR: Greta delivers a major kick to the talker’s backside sending him and his popcorn flying.

GRETA/SAVANNAHWHATEVER YOUR THOUGHTSKEEP THEM TO YOURSELF!YOUR NOISE IS A DISTRACTIONTO EVERYBODY ELSE!

TALKER/ALDUH! NOW I GET IT!

SAVANNAH(to the camera)

Greta, where were you when I needed you?

The gang enjoys a good chuckle as the show leaves for acommercial break.

56.

LEAH/CHUCKWow...

MARIEThat was funny! Hey, that cat has the same name as ours!

LEAHYeah, what a coincidence.

INT. ED’S OFFICE – CONTINUOUS

Frank and Lenny are stunned to silence. Except for Jerry who’s totally pumped.

JERRYYesterday nobody heard of “Greta the Cat”! Today millions of people know who she is! Thanks to me! Is there a Rookie of the Year Award in the comic strip business? I accept!

EXT. UNITED FEATURES SYNDICATE – LATER THAT DAY

INT. CONFERENCE ROOM – SAME MOMENT

Ed, Frank, Lenny, Jerry and Leah are seated around the large table. Leah has the deer looking-into-headlights look. Frank’s disapproving glances at her doesn’t help.

EDThe interest in “Greta the Cat” is unprecedented. We’ve heard fromnewspapers all over the country!

JERRYBy the end of the week, we’ll behearing from newspapers all overthe world!

FRANKGood grief! What's next? Greta kicking some poor Tibetan farmer in the butt for not cleaning up after his yak?

JERRYFinally, a good idea! Nobody likes stepping in yak crap!

LENNY(to no one in particular)

The yak is a cousin to the camel.

57.

JERRY(to Leah)

Lenny is the resident idiot-savant. Only we don’t yet know what the savant part is.

LEAHThat’s mean.

Lenny appreciates Leah’s support.

EDPeople are wondering about the Star.

JERRYGreat! Let them wonder! I think it’s imperative that Leah’s identity not be revealed. We must maintain the mystique! From this moment on we only refer to Leah as Star.

FRANKGood grief!

LEAHYeah, good grief!

Frank rises disgustedly, heads towards door.

FRANKI can’t stomach this.

JERRYFrank is allergic to cats, or is it to success?

FRANKI’m not against success! I just prefer comic strips that are funny and have a certain sweetness to them, with plenty of heart! Like “Peanuts”!

JERRY“Peanuts” wasn’t funny!

FRANKBlasphemy!

LEAHI love “Peanuts”! I’ve got another comic strip that’s funny and sweet and full of heart called “Peaches the Pup”! You’d love it!

58.

Frank and Leah make meaningful eye contact for a moment.

JERRYNo! Let’s stay focused here! “Gretathe Cat” is our top priority now! Let’s not screw this up! There’s much to do! We need to set up a website, a Facebook page, etc. Prepare for lift off! We’re going viral!!

Only Jerry and Ed are the least bit excited.

MONTAGE:

LEAH BUSY CREATING NEW “GRETA THE CAT” COMIC STRIPS.

LEAH AND JERRY EXPERIENCING SOME CREATIVE CONFLICTS.

FRANK AND LENNY COMMISERATING WITH EACH OTHER.

ED AND JERRY HIGH-FIVING EACH OTHER.

VARIOUS PEOPLE ENJOYING THE COMIC STRIP.

MARIE JUMPING OUT FROM BEHIND A CHAIR UNSUCCESSFULLY SCARING CHUCK AND LEAH.

INT. KITCHEN – MORNING

Chuck is seated at the table with Marie. He’s in the process of opening the variety section of the newspaper. Leah is making Marie’s breakfast.

MARIEWhose butt is “Greta the Cat” kicking today, daddy?

CHUCKI don’t know. Let’s take a look.

Chuck finds the funnies and locates “Greta the Cat”.

CHUCK (CONT’D)Here she is. Looks like she’s socking it to a British Petroleum’s top executive.

MARIEWhy?

59.

CHUCKBritish Petroleum is the company that caused that huge Gulf of Mexico oil spill.

MARIEOh. Is that bad?

CHUCKIt was a major disaster that didn’thave to happen. People died.

FIRST PANEL: Greta is standing on the shore of the Gulf of Mexico surrounded by sad, pathetic oil-soaked birds. She’s addressing a man who looks a lot like BP president Tony Hayward.

GRETABRITISH PETROLEUM,YOU SHOULD ALL BE IN JAIL!YOU’VE CAUSED A DISASTEROF BIBLICAL SCALE!

MANThat’s a bit of an exaggeration.

SECOND PANEL:

GRETATHE GULF OF MEXICOWILL NEVER BE THE SAME!YOU AND YOUR GOVERNMENT CRONIESARE SOLELY TO BLAME!

MANThat’s up to the courts to decide.

PANEL THREE: Greta is right in his face.

GRETAAN ECOSYSTEM IS DESTROYED!ELEVEN PEOPLE KILLED!YOUR HEART IS EVEN DARKERTHAN THE OIL YOU SPILLED!

MANWe said we were sorry. Didn’t you see our TV ads?

PANEL FOUR: Greta gives him a mighty kick in the butt sending him flying headfirst into a stinking pool of oil that’s on the beach.

60.

GRETAYOU’RE GREEDY, LYING BASTARDS!THAT MUCH IS TRUE!THERE’S A SPECIAL PLACE IN HELLFOR PEOPLE LIKE YOU!

MANHey, you ruined my very expensive new suit! You owe me!

MARIEIs that funny, daddy?

CHUCKIn a way. I don’t think “Greta the Cat” will be “ha-ha” funny every day.

MARIEI hope it’s funnier tomorrow.

Chuck looks over to Leah who offers no clue.

EXT. UNITED FEATURES SYNDICATE – LATER THAT DAY

INT. CONFERENCE ROOM – SAME MOMENT

Ed, Frank, Lenny, Jerry and Leah around the large conference table. Leah’s discomfort isn’t helped by Frank’s glances of disapproval. Lenny is friendly enough.

EDI got some good news earlier today! CNN wants to run the British Petroleum comic strip. “Greta the Cat” is going international!

LEAHWhat? International!?

JERRYYeah! Yeah! Yeah! Yeahhhhhhhh!

FRANK(to Jerry)

Who do you think you are, a friggin’Beatle?

JERRYNo, I’m the guy who’s discovered the Next Big Thing!

Jerry goes to high-five Leah, who resists. Jerry lifts her arm up and high-fives her, then high-fives Ed.

61.

JERRY (CONT’D)But, I couldn’t have done it without Ed’s support. I’ll thank you at every awards dinner.

FRANKGood grief! How far can this farce go?

JERRYThe sky’s the limit! No, I take that back. There is no limit! “Greta theCat” will be in outer space before she’s through! Kicking Martian butts!Hey, that’s a pretty good idea.

EDLeah, United Features Syndicate would like to extend your six month contract to five years.

LEAHI’m sure you would. But, I think I’ll wait until the six months is up and then see about the extension.

JERRYI knew we should have signed you to a longer contract! I knew it!

EDIf, at the end of the six months you’re considering any other offers,you must allow us the opportunity to match the offer.

LEAHOf course. But, I’m not even thinking about money.

JERRYThat kind of thinking scares me. What are you thinking about?

LEAHThings that have nothing to do with money.

JERRYI don’t know what to say to that. Nothing has to be decided right here and now. Let’s keep our options open and see where we are down the road.

62.

EDThat sounds reasonable.

LEAHI can live with that. Who knows where we’ll be “down the road”.

MONTAGE:

LEAH DRAWING “GRETA THE CAT”.

LEAH WATCHING DISTRESSING NEWS ON TELEVISION. (MASS MURDERS/SHOOTINGS, CO2 TIPPING POINT IN ATMOSPHERE, MID-EASTERN TURMOIL, RACE RIOTS IN BALTIMORE, FERGUSON, NEW YORK.

PEOPLE IN VARIOUS PLACES READING/ENJOYING “GRETA THE CAT”.

PEOPLE PURCHASING “GRETA THE CAT” MERCHANDISE.

MARIE GIGGLING IN CLOSETS, TRYING UNSUCCESSFULLY TO SCARE LEAH AND CHUCK.

TEENAGE GIRLS DRESSING LIKE GRETA AND DOING THE NEW DANCE CALLED “THE KICK-BUTT”.

LEAH CHECKING OUT HER OVERLOADED WEB SITE.

CHUCK PRICING BOATS AND CARS.

JERRY ON THE PHONE, HAPPY.

FRANK AND LENNY, DISGRUNTLED.

LEAH LOOKING LONGINGLY AT “PEACHES THE PUP”.

MIA GREATLY AMUSED BY READING ‘PEOPLE MAGAZINE’ WITH “GRETA THE CAT” ON THE COVER. HEADLINE: “WHO IS STAR?”

INTERCUT:

TV ANCHOR PERSONS FROM DIFFERENT NETWORKS.

63.

ANCHOR I (FOX NEWS)You might not get a kick from champagne but you will get a kickfrom “Greta the Cat”. A comic stripthat has...

ANCHOR II (CNN)“cat”-apulted its way into the psycheof people all over the world.

ANCHOR III (CBS)“Greta the Cat” is a fed-up, feistyfeline who has a zero tolerance policy when it comes to dunces.

ANCHOR IV (ABC)Dunces are people who do stupid things. Everyday Greta chooses adifferent dunce.

ANCHOR V (NBC)A “dunce of the day” could be any-body from a carryout boy at thesupermarket to the President of theUnited States.

ANCHOR I (FOX)Greta holds no prejudices.

ANCHOR II (CNN)Anybody is a potential target.

ANCHOR III (CBS)She’s judge, jury and executioner.

ANCHOR IV (NBC)And she does what all of us wish we could do at one time or another. And that is...

ALL THE ANCHORSGive somebody a good kick in the butt!

EXT. UNITED FEATURES SYNDICATE – DAY

INT. CONFERENCE ROOM – SAME MOMENT

Ed, Jerry, Frank, Lenny and Leah are seated around a large table piled high with various types of “Greta the Cat” dolls, games, puppets and more.

64.

JERRYIsn’t it amazing! Look at all thismerchandise! This is a perfectexample of what American creativityand American work ethic can accomplishin such a short time!

Leah picks up a “Greta the Cat” stuffed doll and inspects the tag. She reads from it.

LEAH“Made in China”.

Lenny grabs a DUNCE CAP and puts it on.

LENNYWhadda ya think?

JERRYIt’s you.

FRANKGeez, Lenny could you make it any easier for him?

EDBy the way, Leah, have you had new thoughts regarding extending your contract?

LEAHNo. Not really.

Jerry tries desperately hard to hide his extreme anger and frustration.

JERRYOkay. We’ll revisit this again. Let’s move ahead. I have what I think is a great idea as to further development of Greta’s character. Instead of having her “kicking butt” let’s have her “kicking ass”! She’s serious about her job! No more butts. Just asses.

FRANK(rising from the table)

You’re an ass! (as he exits the room)

Good grief!

LEAH(beat)

Yes to butt. No to ass.

65.

EDIn all my many years in this business, I don’t believe I’ve ever heard a conversation like this.

INT. MARIE’S BEDROOM – AUTUMN NIGHT

Chuck is looking out the window, watching Leah in the back yard, her arms outstretched towards the starry sky.

MARIE(lying in bed)

Is mommy in the back yard?

CHUCKYes. Evidently, a shooting star just went by. She’s collecting all the love that’s being sprinkled on us.

Marie quickly raises her arms.

MARIECome on, daddy! Raise your arms!

Chuck walks over to Marie and sits next to her.

CHUCKThat’s okay honey. You collect it all. I’ll get it from you when you give me a hug.

MARIEDaddy, all that love can go right through the roof, can’t it?

CHUCKAbsolutely. Through wood, brick orsteel. Even through the most hardenedof hearts or thickest of skulls.

MARIEI don’t have a hard heart or a thick skull.

CHUCKAnd that’s a lot more than most people can claim. Now go to sleep.

Marie lowers her arms as Chuck tucks Marie in bed.

MARIEDaddy, am I ever going to have a little brother or a sister?

66.

CHUCKI hope so.

MARIEWhen?

CHUCKWell, I don’t know exactly. I’llhave to talk to your mom about that.

MARIE(almost pleading)

But, I am going to have one?

CHUCK...Yes.

MARIEYay!

Marie hugs Chuck with all her might. Chuck feels anxious pangs of regret about what he just said.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – LATER THAT NIGHT

Leah has just finished a rough sketch of “Greta the Cat” with completed dialogue. She contemplates the meaning, confused scared. Wondering about her sanity.

NOW IS THE TIMEFOR UNIFICATIONTOGETHER WE STARTTHE TRANSFORMATION.

ALL THAT’S NEEDED ISONE LITTLE SPARKTO SHED SOME LIGHTON ALL THAT IS DARK.

INT. BEDROOM – NEXT MORNING

Leah and Chuck are asleep. Greta cuddles next to Leah’s head. The clock/radio clicks on awakening them both.

NEWSCASTERThe report by the Intergovernmental Panel of Climate Change, a United Nations group that periodically

(MORE)

67.

summarizes climate science, concluded that ice caps are melting, sea ice in the Arctic is collapsing, water supplies are coming under stress, heat waves and heavy rains are intensifying, coral reefs are dying and wars

Leah lays there sinking deeper into her despair as the newscaster goes through his list of horrors. Finally, Chuck reaches over and hits the off button.

CHUCKWhy can’t we wake up to the soundof music or even a damn alarm instead of that awful news every day?

LEAHIf that news isn’t alarming, thenwhat is?

CHUCKThat bad joke is pretty alarming.

LEAHI’m not as funny as I used to be, am I? Nothing is.

Marie comes running into the room and jumps into their bed. Leah forces herself to elevate her mood.

MARIETime to get up! Time to get up!

LEAHMy but aren’t we bright eyed andbushy tailed this morning!

MARIEI’m excited!

LEAHAbout what?

MARIELast night daddy said that I’m going to get a baby brother or sister!

LEAHWhat?!

CHUCKMarie was wondering and I said we would talk about it.

NEWSCASTER (CONT'D)

68.

MARIEYou said that I would get one!

Chuck concedes the point.

MARIE (CONT’D)Sometimes I think I want a brother!And sometimes I think I want a sister!

LEAHIt’s hard to know.

(changing the subject)Marie, how would you like to have your favorite breakfast this morning?

MARIEFrench toast!? Yay!!!

LEAHThen let’s go make it!

MARIEYeah Come on!

Marie springs from the bed, grabs Leah by the hand and playfully pulls her out of bed and towards the door.

LEAH(to Chuck)

We’ll talk after breakfast.

Leah leaves. Chuck lingers behind, dreading the impending discussion.

MARIE/LEAH(Marie leads the chant as they march down the hall)

French toast! French toast! French toast!

INT. LIVING ROOM – AFTER BREAKFAST

Leah looks directly into Chuck’s confused face.

LEAHHow could you tell Marie that we’re going to have another baby?

CHUCKWhy shouldn’t I? We are going to have another kid, aren’t we?

(Leah struggles to respond)(MORE)

69.

It’s always been just a matter of time kind of thing, right? Part of the plan?

Leah is slow to respond.

CHUCK (CONT’D)Two kids and then I get snipped!

(winces)Has something changed?

LEAHChuck, there’s nothing in this world that I want more than another child.But...I don’t think it’s a good idea to have another baby.

CHUCKWhat?! Why not?

Tears well in Leah’s eyes as she tries to find the strength to say what’s long been on her mind.

LEAHI’ve never actually verbalized it before. Although I think it all time. More and more.

CHUCKWhat? What is it?

LEAHWell...here goes....I think we, the silly people on this once glorious planet, are going the way of the dodo bird.

Chuck is slow to respond, studying Leah’s face.

LEAH (CONT’D)The dodo bird is extinct.

CHUCKMy point precisely.

LEAHAnd that’s just one out of thousands of examples I could have used.

CHUCKYou really think the human race is doomed?

CHUCK (CONT'D)

70.

LEAHI do. Doom-de-doom-doom.

CHUCK“Doom-de-doom”?

LEAHDoom.

CHUCKLeah, You’ve been working very hard. You’ve got to be exhausted. Let’s take some time off and go somewhere nice and recharge our batteries.

LEAHWhere on Earth can you go anymore to “recharge your batteries” without some environmental disaster sweeping in and ruining your vacation and reminding you that we’re screwed!?

CHUCKThings aren’t as bad as you think!

LEAHWhat if they are? I can’t bring another child into this sick world.

CHUCKI think you need to get some professional help.

LEAHUnless you mean a professional house cleaner, no!

Chuck checks his watch, grimaces.

CHUCKI’ve got to go. I’m meeting with some architects at the new job site. I’ve got to be there. I’m sorry. We’ll talk more later.

LEAHI have nothing more to add.

Chuck leaves. Leah eases herself down onto a chair, staring ahead, dazed by the conversation. The closet door opens slightly, revealing within, the heartbroken face of a little girl who was finally able to control her giggles.

71.

INT. LEAH’ STUDIO – LATER THAT MORNING

Leah is going over some “Greta the Cat” sketches. She’s distracted by the conversation she had with Chuck. Looking out the window she notices Marie sitting idly on her swing, sadness spoiling her pretty face. Leah goes to the window and calls out to her.

LEAH (CONT’D)Marie, are you okay?

MARIEYeah.

LEAHAre you sure?

MARIEYeah.

Leah isn’t convinced but chalks it up to personal moodiness.

EXT. LEAH’S BACKYARD – THAT NIGHT

Chuck is absentmindedly swinging his golf club, lost in thought about Leah, trying desperately to figure out the right thing to do. Some golf swings are tired, some are fast and angry. He throws his club onto the ground in frustration. Suddenly a shooting star blazes overhead capturing Chuck’s attention. He starts to raise his arms up, then stops.

INT. MARIE’S BEDROOM – SAME MOMENT

Leah is tucking Marie into bed. Marie’s usual glow is still missing.

LEAHYou were so quiet today. Are you feeling sick?

Marie shakes her head no as Leah feels her forehead for a fever.

LEAH (CONT’D)Maybe you’re just tired.

Leah plumps up Marie’s pillows. Marie begins to cry.

LEAH (CONT’D)Honey, what’s wrong?

72.

MARIEI’m never going to have a baby brother or sister.

LEAHWhy would you say that?

MARIEI heard you tell daddy that you can’t bring another child into this sick world.

LEAHWhat? When did I say that?

MARIEToday. I was hiding in the closet. I was going to scare you. I was finally able to not giggle so you didn’t know I was in there.

Leah sickens at the horrible realization that Marie heard her conversation with Chuck. Marie cries into Leah’s arms.

MARIE (CONT’D)You said people are going the way of the doo-doo bird that stinks.

Leah hugs Marie dearly, heartsick at how she’s poisoned the spirit of her beautiful little girl.

LEAHHoney, I’m so sorry. Your daddy and I were just talking, getting some things off our chest. Adult talk.

MARIEIs “doom-de-doom-doom” adult talk?

LEAHFor me it is.

MARIEWhat does it mean?

LEAHIt’s nothing for you to worry about. You’re six years old. You shouldn’t be worried about anything.

MARIEBut I do worry. All the time.

73.

LEAHYou do? What do you worry about?

MARIEI worry about you.

LEAHMe? Why do you worry about me?

MARIEYou yell at the TV a lot. And when we’re driving you honk the horn a lot too. And yell. Mommy, why are you so angry? Are you angry with me?

LEAHNo, no. I am not angry with you. Marie, you are the light of my life.

MARIEAre you mad at daddy?

LEAHNo. I was a little PO’d but I’m not mad at him, anymore.

MARIEThen, what’s wrong?

LEAHHoney, this isn’t something I can talk about with you.

MARIEI want you to.

LEAHLet’s just say I have a lot of things on my mind and some of them make me angry and fearful and I need to figure out how to deal with it better.

MARIEI know what we can do!

LEAHWhat?

MARIELet’s send all your anger and fear into one of those special black holes? And have it turned into love?

74.

LEAHHoney, I love that idea but I’m not sure there really is such a thing.

MARIEBut, you don’t know for sure that there isn’t. Please, mommy?

Leah can’t bring herself to tell Marie that there is no such thing. Marie reaches over and grabs her special necklace from her night table then hangs them around Leah’s neck.

MARIE (CONT’D)Here, mommy! Maybe my pearls of wisdom will help you find that special black hole?

LEAHOh, honey.

MARIECan’t you just try? Please?

LEAH...I’ll see what I can do.

MARIEYay!

LEAHI can’t promise anything.

MARIEJust try! I know there’s one out there somewhere.

Marie snuggles into her blankets, feeling better. It’s all Leah can do to not cry.

MARIE (CONT’D)I love you, mommy.

LEAHLove you. Sweet dreams.

MARIEI’m going to dream about having a baby brother or sister.

Leah kisses Marie, gets up, turns out the lights and closes the door behind her as she leaves. She pauses, then softly begins to cry.

75.

INT. STUDIO – LATER THAT NIGHT

Leah is sitting at the table lost in thought. The wooden blocks lay before her. She suddenly feels compelled to take certain blocks and make the name

GRETA THE CAT.

She ponders the name for a few moments. She rearranges the name Greta to make the word

GREAT.Taking the A, G and E blocks Leah makes the word

AGE.

LEAHGreat age?

Taking the C from CAT, the R from GREAT and the E from the word THE Leah makes the word

CREATE.

LEAH (CONT’D)Create? Create what? Create thegreat age? What does that mean? What is the great age?

INT. KITCHEN – NEXT MORNING

Chuck, Leah and Marie are seated at the table eating quietly. There’s an uncomfortable emotional distance between Chuck and Leah. The TV is on to the “Today Show”. Natalie Morales is interviewing an author who’s written a book about prophets from the past and their predictions for the future.

MARIEDaddy, mommy is going to try and find one of those special black holes to send all her anger and fear into it.

CHUCKOh? That’s nice. I hope she can find one big enough.

Leah ignores the dig. Her attention is caught by something the author on TV is saying to Natalie Morales.

AUTHORIt’s what Nostradamus called “The Great Age”.

76.

LEAH(practically spitting out her coffee)

The Great Age?!

AUTHOR/TVAll the major prophets of the pasthave predicted a period of time inthe future where people live in total harmony with each other and all other creatures on the planet. A time of heaven on Earth.

LEAH(to herself)

The Great Age.

NATALIEDoesn’t the Great Age period supposedly follow Armageddon? The prophesied great, final battle between good and evil?

AUTHORYes, that’s right. Some would argue that we’re in the midst of that great battle right now. But it’s all just prophesy.

NATALIEHeaven on Earth. Imagine that.

AUTHORYes. Imagine that.

MARIEWhat’s Armagaddedon?

CHUCKIt’s when your mother gets to standon the highest mountain top and exclaim to the world, “See!? I told you so!”

INT. THRIFT SHOP – LATER THAT DAY

Leah enters the shop carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders. She sees Mia and walks over to her. Mia is happy to see her but quickly notices Leah’s solemnness.

MIAHi, Leah.

77.

LEAHHi, Mia.

MIAWhat’s wrong?

LEAHOh, I’m not doing so well. Mia, I don’t mean to get personal but have you ever questioned your sanity?

MIAQuestioned my sanity? No.

LEAHThat must be so nice.

MIAIt is. Are you questioning yours?

LEAHI guess I am. I know my husband is.

MIAWhy?

LEAHI told my him that I didn’t want to bring another child into this world because I think this planet is doomed, or at least, the people are.

MIAIt would appear that way.

LEAHSo you agree?

MIANo.

LEAHNo? Really? Why not?

MIAI see a different future. Quite wonderful, actually.

LEAHThen I am nuts.

78.

MIAYes, you are. This whole world is pretty nuts now. So much anger and fear. It’s dark. Very dark.

LEAHYes! Dark! Nuts!

MIAImagine what life would be like if people could just transform all that horrible fear and anger into positive energy? Imagine how we could change the world.

LEAHIf only that were possible.

MIAIt is possible. We have access to an infinite amount of powerful cosmic energy to do with as we please. We can do good things or we can do bad. Let’s do something wonderful! Why not?

LEAH...I don’t know how.

MIAFirst, start imagining the world as you want it to be. Thoughts are very powerful. They can literally change the world.

LEAHI find that hard to believe.

MIAOf course, you do. You need to change how you think and feel. Sooner the better.

LEAHThat’s all I have to do, is change how I think and feel?

MIAThat’s just the first step. You mustalso take action; and always with thebest of intentions for the greater good of all. If you can do that then you will reclaim what is rightfully yours.

79.

LEAHReclaim? Reclaim what?

MIAHeaven on Earth, of course.

LEAHOf course. That would take a miracle.

MIASo? It’s only a miracle.Something we all can do.It’s all a miracle.And so are you.

Leah contemplates her rhyme.

MIA (CONT’D)See it.Believe it.Be it.Conceive it.

LEAHWho are you?

MIAI’m Mia! Who are you?

Leah and Mia continue their deep conversation beyond the hearing of the audience. Leah is spell-bound.

EXT. MOVIE THEATER – LATER THAT DAY

Leah is walking past a movie theater contemplating her conversation with Mia. She stops when her attention is drawn to a marquee promoting the movie currently playing. The film is “What The Bleep Do We Know”. Leah checks the time then decides to go in.

INT. THEATER – LATER

Leah is seated inside the dark theater transfixed by what she is seeing on the screen. The film’s segment is about Dr. Emoto’s amazing photographs of frozen water crystals from his book “Hidden Messages In Water”. The photos show the profound influence that words/thoughts have upon water, proving that thoughts can change the physical world. (First the photos show regular, nondescript water crystals without any words/thoughts directed at them. Then they show the same frozen water crystals they’ve been exposed to certain words/thoughts. Most amazing is the exquisitely beautiful

80.

effect the word “love” has on the water crystal. And the equally powerful, yet grotesque, mutation the words “hate” and “anger” create. Depending upon age, humans are anywhere from 60% - 80% water. The brain is 85%.) Leah is deeply affected by the images and information.

EXT. THEATER – LATER THAT DAY

Leah walks out of the theater lost in thought. She continues down the street, passing some shops along the way. As she walks past a bookstore, she pauses to scan an outdoor display of used books for sale. Her eyes are drawn to a book about anthropologist Margaret Meade. She opens it up and peruses the contents. Almost immediately she discovers this quote from Meade. She reads it aloud to herself.

LEAH“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

Leah recalls/HEARS Mia’s VOICE from their earlier conversation.

MIA (VOICE)And keep your eyes and ears open.The universe is in constant communi-cation with you. With everybody.

LEAH’S KITCHEN – LATER THAT NIGHT

Leah sits alone at the kitchen table with the wooden blocks spread out before her. She makes the word

RECLAIM.

After a few moments she switches the letters around to make the word

MIRACLE.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – LATER THAT NIGHT

Leah is sitting, holding her cat, and contemplating the meaning behind the rhymes that are tacked onto the wall before her. She’s wearing the “special” necklace Marie gave her. Leah focuses upon an early sketch of “Greta the Cat”. She reads the dialogue:

I COME FOR A REASON.I BRING WITH ME RHYMES.

(MORE)

81.

THE MEANING BEHIND THEMWILL BE KNOWN IN DUE TIME.

YOU AND IARE A MOST SPECIAL TEAM.TOGETHER WE MUST TRYTO REALIZE THE DREAM.

WE CAN REACH NEW HEIGHTSBY RIDING THE STAR.OR GIVE IN TO THE FEARAND STAY WHERE YOU ARE.

Leah recalls when she first drew “Greta the Cat” and a certain rhyme that surfaced.

FOR NOW MY PURSE MUST REMAIN EMPTY.BUT COME SOMEDAY.THAT VERY SPECIAL ONE DAY.MY PURSE WILL BE FILLED APLENTY.

Leah then remembers telling Chuck about her strange dream months earlier.

FLASH BACK:

INT. KITCHEN – MORNING

LEAHI dreamt I was flying in deep space with a great sense of urgency.

CHUCKWere you flying like a bird or like Superman?

LEAHNeither. I was being pulled by something. I don’t recall what.Something bright. And I was hangingon for dear life. I had this bighandbag full of something. It was so heavy I could barely fly.

BACK TO PRESENT

Leah concentrates on another sketch of “Greta the Cat” with the rhyme:

NOW IS THE TIMEFOR UNIFICATION

MIA (VOICE) (CONT'D)

(MORE)

82.

TOGETHER WE STARTTHE TRANSFORMATION.

ALL THAT’S NEEDED ISONE LITTLE SPARKTO SHED BRIGHT LIGHTON ALL THAT IS DARK.

Leah redirects her attention to another sketch and rhyme.

WONDER IF YOU MUSTBUT DO NOT BE AFRAID.THE GAME IS AFOOT.THE CONNECTION’S BEEN MADE.

THERE ARE MANY PATHSBUT ONLY ONE IS RIGHT.JUST LISTEN TO YOUR HEARTAND WATCH THE CAT TAKE FLIGHT.

Leah recalls/HEARS what Mia told her earlier.

MIA’S VOICESo? It’s only a miracle.Something we all can do.It’s all a miracle.And so are you.

See it.Believe it.Be it.Conceive it.

Leah recalls something else Mia once told her.

MIA’S VOICE (CONT’D)“Focus on what’s good and positivein the world and build on that.”

INT. MARIE’S BEDROOM – MOMENTS LATER

Leah gazes upon Marie, a sleeping angel. Leah’s love for her is overwhelming and inspiring.

MIA’S VOICE (CONT’D)“Because there is so much goodin the world. Enough to form thefoundation for our Heaven on earth.”

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – MOMENTS LATER

Leah is drawing sketches and writing dialogue at a feverish pace. She’s on a mission.

LEAH (CONT'D)

83.

INT. MARIE’S BEDROOM – NEXT MORNING

Leah is brushing Marie’s hair, getting her ready for the day.

LEAHMarie, remember when we were talking about how mad and fearful I was?

MARIEYeah.

LEAHAnd how we were going to think ofa way to send all that anger andfear into one of those special blackholes?

MARIEYeah. Did you think of a way?

LEAHI think I did.

MARIEHow?

LEAHI know someone who can do it for us and anyone else who wants to send their anger and fear into that special black hole.

MARIEWho’s gonna do it for us, mommy?

LEAHI can’t tell you. But, someday soon you’ll know.

MARIEWhen is it gonna happen?

LEAHSoon.

(Leah hugs Marie) )Honey, I’m so sorry I made you feel sad.

MARIEThat’s okay. You didn’t mean to. You didn’t know that I was hiding in the closet.

84.

LEAHI love you so much, Marie.

MARIEI love you too, mommy.

LEAHAnd no more hiding in closets, okay?

MARIEOkay.

INT. JERRY NORDLING’S OFFICE – LATER THAT DAY

Jerry lets Leah into his office. Leah enters with some apprehension.

JERRYLeah! I’m very excited to see who’s going to get the “Big Kick in the Butt Award”!

LEAH“Big Kick in the Butt Award”? What’s that?

JERRYMy new idea! I think “Big Kick in the Ass Award” sounds better but you don’t want to go in that direction. Anyhow, let’s see the new drawings.

LEAHI’m pretty excited about these new “Greta the Cat” comic strips.

JERRYYeah! That’s the first positive thing you’ve said about “Greta the Cat” ever! Glad to see you’ve come around!

Leah hands Jerry the envelope full of drawings the sits down to watch Jerry as he inspects the new comic strips, pacing about as he does. Each new comic strip distorts his face to various shades of shock and horror.

JERRY (CONT’D)What’s this? The world’s worst practical joke?

85.

LEAHNo. This is the new direction I’m taking “Greta the Cat”.

Jerry studies Leah’s face for any sign of facetiousness.

JERRYThis is disturbing on many levels.

Jerry sits down next to Leah and speaks softly, earnestly.

JERRY (CONT’D)Leah, believe it or not, during these past few months, I’ve grown quite fond of you.

LEAHWhat’s not to like?

JERRYWe’ll save that conversation for another time. Leah, I’m concerned about you. Seriously. Is your husband aware of your nervous breakdown? He must have his suspicions.

LEAHThis isn’t a breakdown. And if it is, I’m looking forward to having many more.

JERRYNo! Clearly you’ve had one too many! Leah, losing your mind is nothingto be ashamed of. In fact, amonggreat artists like yourself, it’s almost considered a badge of honor. It’s proof that you’re the real thing! Leah, let’s just put this bad idea away and never speak of it again.

LEAHNo. And there’s nothing you can do about it. I’ve got creative control. Remember?

JERRYNone of this makes any sense to me.

LEAHSomeday it’ll make perfect sense. The end of my six month contract is fast approaching.

(as she heads for the door)(MORE)

86.

You’ll recall the last day of my contract is Christmas day. Merry Christmas!

Leah exits. Jerry is paralized with frustration.

JERRYMerry Christmas, my butt!

INT. LEAH’S KITCHEN – NEXT MORNING

Leah watches with great apprehension as Chuck searches the comic pages for “Greta the Cat”.

MARIEWhose butt is “Greta the Cat” going to kick today, daddy?

CHUCKI’ll tell ya in one second.

Chuck’s face registers profound confusion when he reads “Greta the Cat” to Marie.

PANEL ONE: “Greta the Cat” speaks earnestly to the readers.

GRETAI know you’re wonderingWho’s the Dunce of the Day?Whose butt will get kicked?Who has hell to pay?

PANEL TWO:

GRETA (CONT’D)The violence is over.There’s be no more of that.No more kicking and raging.Never again from this cat.

PANEL THREE:

GRETA (CONT’D)That angry cat actWas exactly that.A comical inventionTo capture your attention.

PANEL FOUR:

GRETA (CONT’D)What’s going to happenIf the kicking is all done?

LEAH (CONT'D)

(MORE)

87.

I can promise you this.The best is yet to come!

Chuck puts the paper down in disbelief and concern.

CHUCK“Greta the Cat” is no longer going to kick people in the butt?!

LEAHThat’s what she said.

CHUCKHow come?

MARIEYeah, how come?

LEAHHow would I know?

INT. ED WEBSTER’S OFFICE – SAME MOMENT

Ed and Jerry are pacing about anxiously. Lenny and Frank sit comfortably enjoying Jerry’s turmoil.

EDJerry, how could you allow Star to change the comic strip?

Jerry can barely utter the words.

JERRY...She has creative control.

The men let out a great collective gasp of disbelief.

FRANKRookie! Any dumb ass knows you don’t give up creative control to a new artist!

LENNYYeah, even I know that!

JERRYIt’s your fault, Frank! Star was soinsulted by the short-term contract,that you insisted upon, that she wouldn’t sign without creative control. We’re lucky she signed at all. I had to be extremely charming to persuade her.

GRETA (CONT’D)

88.

FRANKThe thought of you being “extremelycharming” sickens me.

Lenny agrees but says nothing.

EDJerry, you’ve got to fix this!

JERRYI will. I’m going to call her right now and change what’s left of her mind!

Jerry hustles towards the door. Frank calls out to him

FRANKUse some of that charm of yours and once she stops vomiting maybe she’ll change her mind!?

INT. JERRY’S OFFICE – LATER THAT MORNING

Jerry is on the phone, red faced, engorged veins undulate around his head. It’s a tremendous effort for him to stay cool and friendly.

JERRYStar, this is the fifth message I’veleft today. Let’s meet for lunch!

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – SAME TIME

Leah is listening to Jerry leaving his message.

JERRY (CONT’D)Let’s talk about the future of “Greta the Cat”! I’ve got some great new ideas! For example, I call this idea the “Switcheroo”...!

LEAH(picks up phone)

No! Please don’t call back!

Leah hits the off button and gets back to work.

INT. OFFICE BUILDING/EMPLOYEES LOUNGE – NEXT MORNING

Office workers are gathered around the newspaper reading “Greta the Cat” out loud.

89.

PANEL ONE: Greta speaks directly to the readers.

GRETAWho am I then,If not an angry cat?I am but a messenger.Nothing more than that.

PANEL TWO:

GRETA (CONT’D)I’m here for a reason.I’ve come because you called.Your cries were heard from far away.I’m here to help you all.

PANEL THREE:

GRETA (CONT’D)I bring with me a messageTo shed much needed lightUpon your darkened hearts.Words to change your life.

PANEL FOUR:

GRETA (CONT’D)The old story is over.A new one has begun.I expect to see great changesWhen all is said and done.

INT. ED WEBSTER’S OFFICE – SAME MOMENT

All the men are in there, newspaper in hand. Jerry angrily scrunches his paper up into a ball and whips it across the room.

JERRYThe only great change she’s gonna see is no change!

FRANKThat makes no sense.

EDThis is Greta the Catastrophe!

LENNYI kind of like the new “Greta the Cat”.

90.

JERRYOf course you do! That’s how bad it is!

EDI’m getting complaints from newspapersall over the country! They’re threatening to drop the strip! Jerry, I thought you were going to fix this? Have you talked to her?

JERRYI have.

EDWhat did she say?

JERRYJust a bunch of gobble-dee-gook.

FRANKYou’re fluent in gobble-dee-gook. What did she say?

JERRYShe’s thinking it over.

EDMaybe I should call her.

JERRYNo! This is my deal! I discovered her, nurtured her. I’ll get her back on track. Don’t worry.

FRANKJust let her go.

JERRYEasy for you to say! You’ve never experienced the joy of creating a phenomenon!

FRANKI told you, I don’t speak gobble-dee-gook. What did you say?

JERRYEd, thank god you’re on my side.

Jerry stalks out of the office. Frank and Lenny look to Ed for his response to that statement. He responds guiltily.

91.

ED“Greta the Cat” is a cash cow.

LENNYMaybe she’ll do it again? In a different way?

INT. JERRY’S OFFICE – LATER THAT MORNING

Jerry is on the phone doing his best to be extremely charming.

JERRYOkay, Star. So if you can give me a call that would be great! Bye now. My best to your family! Bye! Call me! Bye-bye!

Jerry hangs up, gives a hefty kick to an imaginary butt, tweaking his hamstring muscle in the process. He tries to rub the pain away, swearing to himself.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – THAT NIGHT

Leah is immersed in her work not noticing Chuck looking in with much concern and confusion. He’s tempted to say something but decides not to and moves quietly down the hall.

EXT. LEAH’S BACK YARD – LATER THAT NIGHT

Leah stands in the brisk exhilarating air, arms outstretched towards the sky, taking it all in. Chuck watches with concern from the bedroom window.

INT. ED WEBSTER’S OFFICE – NEXT MORNING

Jerry paces about angrily. Ed swivels in his chair with frustration. Frank sits on the couch with Lenny who has the newspaper in hand, reading “Greta the Cat” out loud with childlike sincerity and enthusiasm.

PANEL ONE: Greta holds her necklace in her hands.

GRETA/LENNYThis necklace that I wearIs special and divine.In the entire universeIt is one of a kind.

92.

PANEL TWO:

GRETA/LENNY (CONT’D)These are pearls of wisdom.Perfect truths within reside.Strung on a thread of hope.Their purpose is to guide.

PANEL THREE:

GRETA/LENNY (CONT’D)Each pearl has a message.Each pearl tried and true.

PANEL FOUR:

GRETA/LENNY (CONT’D)But one pearl in particularIs meant just for you.

LENNY (stops reading)

I wonder what our pearl is going to say?

JERRY(to Lenny)

Your pearl will say you’re a dumb ass!

Jerry stalks out of the room, limping slightly.

INT. JERRY’S OFFICE – SHORT TIME LATER

Jerry hangs up the phone angrily. He starts to kick an imaginary butt, but stops short, rubbing his sore leg muscle. He decides to use his left leg, again tweaking the hamstring muscle of that leg. He tries to rub the pain away, cursing.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – LATER THAT DAY

Leah is working on “Greta the Cat” at the same time listening to the news on the TV.

TV NEWSCASTERThe big question on everyone’s mindthese days is, “What is going on with “Greta the Cat”?

(MORE)

93.

Why has Star suddenly taken the most popular comic strip in recent history and totally turned it upside down?

The news show cuts to a montage of citizens expressing their confusion and varying opinions on Greta the Cat. Over that we HEAR Chuck’s voice.

CHUCK (O.C.)Yeah, why has she? What’s wrong with her? First she announces she’s given up on the world and doesn’t want any more kids and now she’s trying to ruin the best thing that’s ever happened to us.

LEAH“Greta the Cat” is not the best thing that’s ever happened to us. Marie is the best thing.

CHUCKRight. Greta is the second best thing.

LEAHNo. The second best thing is when wegot married.

CHUCKRight. “Greta the Cat” is the thirdbest thing that’s ever happened to us?

LEAHYes.

CHUCKOkay. Why are you ruining the third best thing that’s ever happened to us?

LEAHI’m not. She’s going through a change,for the better, I hope.

CHUCKYou hope?!

LEAHChuck, have I ever questioned thewisdom of your business decisions?

CHUCKNo.

TV NEWSCASTER (CONT'D)

94.

LEAHThen please allow me the same respect.

CHUCKBut I at least run my ideas by you first. I didn’t even have a chance to talk you out of it.

LEAHI’m sorry about that, but I was afraid you might succeed. Chuck, I need to do this. I need you.

Chuck surrenders. Marie runs in excitedly.

MARIEMommy! “Greta the Cat” has necklace just like ours! Is that another coincidence?

LEAHYeah, I guess it is.

INT. COFFEE SHOP – NEXT MORNING

People are anxiously reading “Greta the Cat” to each other.

PANEL ONE: The pearl necklace spins around just above Greta’s head.

GRETAAs the necklace spins above me.One pearl will start to glowMuch brighter than the othersAnd that is how we’ll know.

PANEL TWO: The gleaming pearl drops into Greta’s waiting hand. The other pearls come together again as a necklace around Greta’s neck.

PANEL THREE:

GRETA (CONT’D)This is your special pearl.See how it shines.Your moment of truth has arrived,In just the nick of time.

PANEL FOUR: Greta is putting the pearl into her mouth.

GRETA (CONT’D)I place this in my mouthAnd then I will swallow.

(MORE)

95.

The advice that shall resultYou’d be very wise to follow.

INT. JERRY’S OFFICE – SAME MOMENT

Jerry is consumed with anger, swiveling in his chair like mad man, plotting his next step.

INT. KITCHEN – THAT NIGHT

Chuck is looking out the window towards the backyard. He’s watching Leah and Marie standing in the backyard looking up at the cold winter sky. A shooting star flashes overhead. They raise their arms to receive the energy. Chuck recalls a conversation he once had with Marie:

MARIE/VOICEDaddy, all that love can go right through the roof, can’t it?

CHUCK/VOICEAbsolutely. Through wood, brick orsteel. Even through the most hardenedof hearts or thickest of skulls.

Chuck slowly, self-consciously lifts his arms upwards.

INT. LAUNDROMAT – NEXT MORNING

People are reading “Greta the Cat” to each other.

PANEL ONE: Greta stands in a meditative stance, eyes closed. Her thought bubbles tell us what’s she’s thinking.

GRETAThis would be funny,If it wasn’t so pathetic.You already know the truthBut choose to forget it.

PANEL TWO:

GRETA (CONT’D)But this time it’s different.You’re ready to change your minds.You’re ready to open your hearts.And leave the darkness behind.

PANEL THREE: Greta opens her eyes and speaks.

GRETA (CONT’D)

96.

GRETA (CONT’D)I am ready to speak.You are ready to hear.It’s a very simple truth.One that’s crystal clear.

But, before I tell you,I must first sound the call.

PANEL FOUR: Greta cups her hands around her opened mouth.

GRETA (CONT’D)WAKE UP! WAKE UP! WAKE UP!WAKE UP, ONE AND ALL!!!

EXT. UNITED PRESS SYNDICATE – SAME DAY

Dozens of protesters are picketing and chanting outside the main doors.

PROTESTORSBring back the butt-kicking cat!Bring back the butt-kicking cat!

INT. ED WEBSTER’S OFFICE – SAME MOMENT

Ed, Jerry, Lenny and Frank are peering out the window at the noisy protestors.

JERRYSee!? The people are speaking out!We’ve got to heed the call!

FRANKGood grief.

LENNYDo you think any of them are violent?

JERRYHell, they’re all time bombs about to go off! This is a sick, angry world and that’s what makes “Greta the ‘ass kicking’ Cat” so special! Okay, here’s the plan. Here’s what we must do before every newspaper in the world drops us.

INT. LEAH’S KITCHEN – LATER THAT DAY

Leah stands in a state of amazement listening to Jerry’s message.

97.

JERRY (CONT’D)This is an amazing, unprecedented offer we’re making you. So please call me. Soon. Okay? Bye.

INT. LEAH’S KITCHEN – NEXT MORNING

Chuck, Leah and Marie are seated at the table. Chuck reads “Greta the Cat” with a look of horror on his face. He can barely speak as he reads the comic strip to Marie.

PANEL ONE: A man who looks like a caricature of Jerry holds out a large money bag in one hand and a United Features Syndicate briefcase in the other. He offers the bag of money to Greta.

MANFORGET ABOUT THAT PEARL OF WISDOMNONSENSE! HERE’S A MILLION BUCKS IF YOU COME BACK AND KICK SOME BUTT!

PANEL TWO:

GRETAI told you already.I made it very clear.Monetary gainIs not why I’m here.

PANEL THREE:

MANCOME ON, YOU CRAZY CAT! TAKE THE DAMN MONEY! YOU KNOW YOU WANT IT!

PANEL FOUR:

GRETAI forgive your misguided ways.You live only to serve yourself.It’s people exactly like youWho are most in need of my help.

MARIEWow! Greta turned down a million dollars!

CHUCKIs that true?

LEAH...Yes.

98.

CHUCKCan I see you in the other room?

Chuck rises on weak knees and goes into the living room.

LEAHMarie, make sure you eat all of your orange slices. I’ll be right back.

Leah joins Chuck in the

LIVING ROOM.

CHUCKYou really turned down all that money?

LEAHI had to.

CHUCKIt’s all I can do not to vomit. Why?

LEAHI made a promise to Marie that nomatter what, “Greta the Cat” wouldcomplete her mission.

CHUCKWhy is it so important to Marie?

LEAHIt’s going to make her feel better about me; about the world.

CHUCKI don’t understand.

LEAHRemember when I told you I thought this was a lousy world and didn’twant to have another child?

CHUCKI’ll never forget it.

LEAHMarie heard me say that. She washiding in the closet waiting to scare us. She heard everything.

CHUCKOh, God. Why didn’t you tell me this before?

99.

LEAHI’m sorry. I should have. I guess I didn’t want you to think I was the world’s worst mother along with the world’s craziest wife.

Leah starts to cry. Chuck’s anger keeps him from immediately comforting her but then he gives in to her need for support and wraps his comforting arms around Leah, which she gratefully accepts.

CHUCKYou’re not the world’s worst mother.You’re a wonderful mother. You reallyare. The crazy wife part, I don’t know.

LEAHI need to fix the hurt I’ve caused.“Greta the Cat” is going to help me do that. I need to do this for Marie. I need to do this for myself.

Chuck accepts the situation with a certain amount of sickness.

INT. ED WEBSTER’S OFFICE – LATER THAT MORNING

Ed, Frank, Jerry and Lenny are in there.

FRANKNot only does Star turn down themoney but then she makes us all look like greedy pigs!

(to Jerry)When it’s really just you. Thanks.

JERRYIf maximizing something that I helped create makes me a greedy pig then oink oink! There’s only one thing left to do. We threaten to stop syndicating “Greta the Cat”.

LENNYNo!

FRANKGood grief! Ed!?

LENNYYeah, Ed!?

100.

EDNo! We can’t and won’t breach our contract with Star!

JERRYIt won’t come to that. It’s just aclever ploy. Star will know that tosue us will likely reveal her trueidentity. We’re safe. We win.

EDThis just doesn’t feel right.

JERRYDoesn’t make it wrong. She’s costing us money! We’ve lost newspapers!

EDActually, we’re making more money thanever!

JERRYWhat?

EDWe’ve gotten back all the newspaperswe lost plus dozens more. Turns out, people want to see where Greta is leading them.

JERRYPeople don’t know what they want until they’re told what they want. And what they want is “Greta the ass kicking Cat”!

EDClearly, there’s a growing surge of interest for the new “Greta the Cat”.

JERRYThat doesn’t matter. “Greta the Cat” in her current incarnation is, by design, destined for a premature end! I can’t let that happen!

Jerry heads for the door.

EDWhat are you going to do?

JERRY(exiting)

I’m going to get Star’s cooperation!

101.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – short time later

Leah is listening as Jerry leaves a message.

JERRYAnd since you’ve been noncompliant with us you’ve left us no other choice but to discontinue syndication of Greta the Cat.

Leah grabs the phone.

INTERCUT BETWEEN LEAH AND JERRY

LEAHWhat do you mean, you won’t besyndicating “Greta the Cat”! You have to!

JERRYOh, Star. Nice to hear your voice again. I thought that would get your attention.

LEAHYou’d be in breach of our contract!

JERRYSo, sue us.

LEAHI get it. If I sue you then my true identity will be revealed.

JERRYThat’d kind of ruin everything, wouldn’t it?

LEAHOkay. Fine. Go ahead, don’t syndicate “Greta the Cat”!

Leah slams the phone down angrily. She begins thinking with great resolve. Jerry is surprised, nervous. He wonders what Leah has up her sleeve. Ed sticks his head into the room.

EDWhat’d she say?

JERRYShe said, “Go ahead, don’t syndicate “Greta the Cat”.

102.

EDShe did?

JERRYHer very words. She’s a self-destructive nut. She should be committed.

INT. LEAH’S LIVING ROOM – THAT NIGHT

The room is fully adorned with Christmas decorations. Chuckis laying on the couch with Marie watching “The Grinch WhoStole Christmas” on TV. Leah enters the room tentatively, stops. Something big is on her mind.

CHUCK(fearful)

What?

LEAHChuck, we need to talk.

Leah approaches Chuck.

CHUCKThere are no scarier words to a man.

MARIEIs daddy in trouble?

LEAHNo. Marie, we’re just going to step into the kitchen for a minute. We’ll be right back. Nothing to worry about.

MARIEYou say that a lot.

Leah leads Chuck away.

CHUCK (whispers to Leah)

Am I in trouble?

They head into the

KITCHEN.

LEAHI need to talk to you about the money we’ve made from “Greta the Cat”.

103.

CHUCKWhat about it?

LEAHI’m dividing it in two. You can do with your half as you want. I’m going to need all of my share immediately.

CHUCKFor what?

INT. ED’S OFFICE – NEXT MORNING

All the men are in there amazed by what they see, “Greta the Cat” taking up an entire page of the newspaper. Lenny is particularly happy to see it.

INT. DONUT SHOP – CONTINUOUS

A group of people are gathered in a booth reading aloud Greta the Cat.

PANEL ONE: Greta speaks directly to the readers.

GRETAHere is the truthI now shall impart.Keep an open mindAnd listen with your heart.

INT. BUSINESS OFFICE – CONTINUOUS

Office workers are reading Greta the Cat.

PANEL TWO:

GRETA (CONT’D)The anger within youIs destroying your life.It’s as deadly as a bullet.As lethal as a knife.

INT. MUFFLER SHOP – CONTINOUS

Mechanics are gathered around the newspaper reading “Greta the Cat”.

104.

PANEL THREE:

GRETA (CONT’D)You’ve evolved into beingsWho live in constant fear.You’re frightened by what you see.Alarmed by what you hear.

INT. BAKERY – CONTINUOUS

Customers are reading Greta the Cat.

PANEL FOUR:

GRETAA change in you is necessary.To save the human race.An urgent transformationMust and will take place.

INT. JERRY’S OFFICE – LATER THAT MORNING

Jerry is on the speaker-phone to Leah.

JERRYOkay, how’d ya do it? How’d you get the newspapers to devote an entire page to “Greta the Cat”?

LEAHIt was easy. I just bought advertising space in all the newspapers.

JERRYWhat!? That’d cost a fortune!

LEAHThanks to “Greta the Cat”, I’ve gotone.

JERRYNot for long at the rate you’re going. We can’t allow you to syndicate the comic strip yourself. That’s against our contract.

LEAHThat’s a laugh. You’ve already breached the contract which rendersit null and void. Jerry, you’vecreated a no-win situation for your-

(MORE)

105.

self. The old “Greta the Cat” is notcoming back. So, you can either be a professional and syndicate the comicstrip and make more money, or you canlet me do it myself.

JERRYSyndicate her yourself!

Jerry wants to kick something but is forced to resist by his sore leg muscles. He grabs a “Greta the Cat” doll and tosses it across the room. He grabs his shoulder in pain, cursing.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – THAT NIGHT

Leah looks exhausted as she sits at her work table. The wooden blocks before her spell

MIA.

She rearranges them to spell:

I AM.

INT. MIA’S THRIFT SHOP – NEXT MORNING

Mia is reading “Greta the Cat” to a little boy and a little girl and their mother.

PANEL ONE: Greta stands with her purse held out before her.

GRETAMy purse is specialAnd holds without limit.As much of anythingThat you wish to put in it.

PANEL TWO: Greta has opened the purse wide open and holds it out to the readers.

GRETA (CONT’D)It’s opened to you,Ready to be filledWith all those toxic thoughtsThat are making you so ill.

PANEL THREE: Greta’s purse fills the entire panel.

GRETA (CONT’D)Gather it togetherAll that anger and fear.

LEAH (CONT'D)

(MORE)

106.

With all your might and willDirect it into here.

PANEL FOUR: Greta’s purse still fills the entire panel.

GRETA (CONT’D)Scrape it from the bottom.Skim it off the top.All of it, all of it.Every bit. Every drop.

MONTAGE:

VARIOUS PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD STARING INTENTLY INTO THE PURSE, ESPECIALLY LENNY.

INT. COFFEE SHOP – NEXT MORNING

A group of students are huddled around the newspaper reading “Greta the Cat” to one another.

PANEL ONE: Greta stands with her purse held out before her but now it’s closed tight.

GRETAYour anger and fearIs safely locked inside.And here it will stayUntil the end of my ride.

PANEL TWO: Greta points towards the star in the corner of the panel. It’s pulsating, glowing and growing.

GRETA (CONT’D)The star is vibrating.Starting to grow.My visit here is over.It’s time for me to go.

PANEL THREE:

GRETA (CONT’D)There’s one last thingThat you must doBefore I say Good-bye to you.

PANEL FOUR:

GRETA (CONT’D)Forgive yourself and othersFor all the wrongs you’ve done.

GRETA (CONT’D)

(MORE)

107.

It’s time for you to realize.You’re really all just one.

INT. ED WEBSTER’S OFFICE – SAME MOMENT

Ed, Frank, Lenny and Jerry are in there. Jerry throws the newspaper down in disgust.

JERRYWe’re all just one?! This is pure crap!

LENNYI wonder where is Greta going?!

JERRYTo hell, I hope.

INT. BEAUTY SALON – NEXT MORNING

Women in different stages of hair-care are gathered around the newspaper reading “Greta the Cat” to each other.

PANEL ONE: Greta stands next to the star is which now just a little larger than her.

GRETAThis star is my vehicle.It can take me anyplace.Through infinite dimensions,Throughout time and space.

PANEL TWO:

GRETA (CONT’D)There’s a sacred black holeOut in deepest spaceThat is the opening into a tunnel.A most wondrous place.

PANEL THREE:

GRETA (CONT’D)It’s a transformative tunnel.Its purpose most divine.It resides in a placeWhere a star once did shine.

GRETA (CONT’D)

108.

PANEL FOUR:

GRETA (CONT’D)The tunnel spirals upwardsTo the heavens high above.Miracles upon miracles happenWithin this tunnel of love.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – THAT NIGHT

Leah is in the midst of a creative frenzy.

INT. LEAH’S KITCHEN – NEXT MORNING

Leah, Chuck and Marie are at the kitchen table. Leah reads “Greta the Cat” to them.

PANEL ONE: Greta is standing next to her star.

GRETAThis tunnel has one purpose.It transforms anger and fearInto pure loveFor all, far and near.

MARIEShe knows about the tunnel of love!

PANEL TWO:

GRETA At the other end of this tunnelThe love bursts out in showersOf brilliant shooting starsImbued with love’s awesome power!

PANEL THREE:

GRETA (CONT’D)The stars fly throughout the universe To where love is desperately needed.To where darkness threatens all.To where the light is being defeated.

PANEL FOUR:

GRETA (CONT’D)It’s to this tunnel of loveIs where I must go.To toss in this special bag And all that it holds.

109.

MARIEMommy, how’d you get “Greta the Cat” to fly to the tunnel of love?

LEAHActually, I didn’t. You did. Starheard your prayers and knew howimportant it was for us to be able to get all that icky anger and fear we had into that special black hole.

MARIEI feel better already!

LEAH(hugging her)

Me, too.

INT. ED WEBSTER’S OFFICE – THAT MORNING

Ed, Frank, Jerry and Lenny are in there. Ed is sullenly perusing a handful of papers full of statistics.

EDWell, “Greta the Cat” is now officially the most popular comicstrip in the world.

FRANKAnd we look like the biggest jerksin the world.

JERRYSome of the greatest people who ever lived were jerks! Jerks get things done.

FRANKAre you finally admitting that you’re a jerk?

JERRY(ignoring Frank)

I’ve got an idea!

FRANKPlease, no! No more ideas!

JERRY“Greta the Cat” was as much my creation as Star’s.

110.

FRANKGood grief.

JERRYThe dunce of the day concept was mine alone. Star wanted to use words like moron, numskull, dimwit, etc. I’m taking back what is rightfully mine.

EDWhat are you talking about?

JERRYI could kick myself for not thinkingof this sooner!

Jerry hustles out of the room.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – LATER THAT DAY

Chuck enters with a sandwich and milk.

CHUCKHere’s a peanut butter sandwich to give you a little energy. I made it all by myself.

He stops when he sees Leah in tears.

CHUCK (CONT’D)Leah? What’s wrong?

LEAHUnited Features Syndications is suing me.

CHUCKFor what?

LEAHJerry claims the idea of “Greta the Cat” is as much his idea as mine and intends to take me to court, unless I change my mind.

CHUCKThat’s absurd! I’d like to kick his ass!

Chuck kicks at an imaginary butt, pulling a muscle in his leg. He tries to rub the pain away.

111.

LEAHI don’t have enough money to fightthem in court and buy newspaper spaceso Greta can complete her mission.

Chuck takes a moment to make a painful decision.

CHUCKGreta has to complete her mission. She has to reach that black hole. Take my half of the money.

LEAHWhat?

CHUCKPlease. Millions of people need to see “Greta the Cat” make it to the Tunnel of Love. Marie needs to. I need to see it too.

LEAHThere probably won’t be any money left over.

CHUCKI can’t think of a better way of spending that money.

Leah embraces Chuck.

LEAHThank you, Chuck! I love you so much.

CHUCKI love you, Leah.

INT. POLICE STATION – NEXT MORNING

A group of police officers are gathered around the newspaper. One cop reads “Greta the Cat” to them all.

PANEL ONE: Greta has a firm grip on the nearest point of the star. The star is pointing upwards and attempting take-off but is struggling.

GRETAOoph! This is so heavy!I can barely leave the ground!What a heavy loadYou’ve been carrying around!

112.

PANEL TWO: The star is finally able to leave the ground with Greta hanging on.

GRETA (CONT’D)Away I fly!Off I go!But first I must tell youWhat you already know.

PANEL THREE: Greta is flying high, whipping past a confused duck.

GRETA (CONT’D)Love is the answer!Love is the key!It’s all a miracle Just waiting to be!

PANEL FOUR: Suddenly, out of nowhere, a man wearing a slick suit and a dunce cap with a propeller on top appears.

MANSTOP!! I AM A LAWYER FOR UNITEDFEATURES SYNDICATE. YOU AREORDERED TO RETURN TO EARTH,EMPTY THE CONTENTS OF THAT BAG,AND RESUME YOUR BUTT KICKING WAYS!

The cops are aghast at the sudden turn of events.

INT. ED WEBSTER’S OFFICE – SAME MOMENT

Ed, Frank and Lenny can’t believe what they’re reading. Jerry is smoldering.

FRANKDid you take legal action?

JERRYI’ve instructed our lawyers to initiate preliminary steps.

EDAre you nuts?! We can’t win that case!

JERRYI’m just trying to scare her.

LENNYIt’s not going to work. All her fear is in that bag.

113.

JERRYLenny, it’s just a comic strip.

LENNYMaybe to you.

INT. LENNY’S KITCHEN – NEXT MORNING

Lenny is reading “Greta the Cat” to his little boy and girl.

PANEL ONE: Greta continues on with the lawyer in hot pursuit.

GRETAI will not stop!I will not listen!There’s nothing you can doTo foil my mission!

PANEL TWO:

LAWYERYOU’RE IN BIG TROUBLE, LADY, ORWHATEVER YOU ARE! I ORDER YOUTO STOP! IT’S THE LAW!

PANEL THREE:

GRETAYour silly claimsAre not laws at all.Just words of greedy menWho jump when money calls.

PANEL FOUR:

LAWYERWE’RE NOT GREEDY! WE JUST WANT MORE MONEY! OKAY, YOU ASKED FOR IT. NO MORE MISTER NICE GUY!

Lenny stops reading, worried. His little boy is visibly concerned.

BOYDaddy, is Greta going to make it to the black hole?

LENNYJake...I don’t know.

114.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – THAT DAY

Leah is listening to a message from Jerry.

JERRYI mean it, Star! If you don’t stop what you’re doing today, you willabsolutely have a lawsuit on yourhands! THIS IS YOUR LAST CHANCE!!

Leah sits with great resolve to continue forward. She gazes down at the wooden blocks that still say:

I AM.

INT. FOUR DIFFERENT CAFES AROUND THE COUNTRY – NEXT MORNING

People are anxiously reading “Greta the Cat”.

PANEL ONE: Greta continues to fly upwards with the lawyer in hot pursuit, the propeller on his dunce cap spinning madly.

LAWYERGIVE ME THAT BAG!!

PANEL TWO: The lawyer has grabbed hold of Greta’s bag.

GRETALET GO OF MY BAG!LET GO THIS MINUTE!IT MIGHT BURST OPEN!AND RELEASE ALL THAT’S IN IT!

PANEL THREE: The lawyer’s grip remains firm.

LAWYERTHAT WOULD BE ALL YOUR FAULT!TURN AROUND AND GO BACK!

PANEL FOUR: Greta continues to struggle to hang on to the star and her bag.

GRETATO RELEASE THE CONTENTSWITHIN THIS PURSEWOULD DO UNTOLD DAMAGE!YOU COULD DO NO WORSE!

INT. CNN TELEVISION STATION – NEXT MORNING.

A news anchor has the newspaper open to “Greta the Cat” and is reading it to the viewers.

115.

PANEL ONE: The lawyer continues his tight grip on Greta’s purse. They’re flying in deep space by now. Greta struggles to hold onto the star and her bag.

LAWYER/ANCHORCOME ON ALREADY! STOP WITHTHIS CRAZINESS! YOU NUT!

PANEL TWO:

GRETA/ANCHORSINCE YOU WON’T LET GO,THEN HANG ON TIGHT!I’M TAKING YOU ONTHE RIDE OF YOUR LIFE!

PANEL THREE: Suddenly the star grows even brighter and begins to pulsate.

LAWYER/ANCHORHEY! WHAT’S GOING ON WITH THAT STAR!? IT’S GETTING SO BRIGHT!

PANEL FOUR: The lawyer has put on sunglasses but continues his hold on Greta’s bag.

GRETA/ANCHORYOU’RE ABOUT TO FIND OUTTHIS STAR DOESN’T JUST FLY!IT CAN MAKE A GREAT CHANGEIN THE WINK OF AN EYE!

EXT. UNITED FEATURES SYNDICATE – THAT MORNING

Protesters are marching outside the main entrance to the building, chanting and waving signs saying: FULFILL THE MISSION, LET GRETA FLY, TO THE TUNNEL OF LOVE AND BEYOND,UNITED PRESS SYNDICATE SUCKS!

PROTESTERS“Greta the Cat”must complete her mission!To stop her nowis a stupid decision!

(repeat)

INT. ED WEBSTER’S OFFICE – SAME MOMENT

Ed, Frank, Lenny and Jerry are anxiously peering out the window at the protesters. Their chants can be heard.

116.

JERRYCripes, those are the same people who were protesting last week to bring back Greta the butt-kicking cat! They don’t know what they want! People are nuts!

LENNYMaybe they see things differently now and have had a change of heart and now know what they really want?

JERRYLenny, why don’t you just go out there and join those new improved protesters because, as usual, you’re of no help here.

Jerry shifts his resolve into a higher gear and heads for the door, limping as he does.

FRANKWhat the hell is wrong with your legs?

JERRYBattle wounds from fighting the good fight!

EDWhere are you going?

Jerry ignores Ed’s question and leaves. Ed, Frank and Lenny look at each other wondering what Jerry’s up to?

INT. JERRY’S OFFICE – MOMENTS LATER

Jerry is on the speaker-phone to Leah..

JERRYYou’ve left me no choice but to resort to the most drastic of measures.

LEAHJerry, you have nothing to gain from this.

JERRYI don’t care. Now listen carefully.

Jerry stops in front of his desk; he bends over to bring his mouth closer to the phone box.

117.

JERRY (CONT’D)If you don’t return “Greta the Cat” to her original state I will absolutely leak your true identity to the press! Hear me? I mean it! Some newspaper or magazine would love to cash in on this scoop!! I could probably even make some fat cash on the side!

LEAHJerry, please. I don’t deserve this.

JERRYLeah, people get exactly what they deserve.

MAN’S VOICE (O.S.)That’s for damn sure!

Suddenly Jerry receives a powerful kick in the butt that sends him flying over his desk and into a pathetic heap onto the floor. Jerry can’t believe his eyes when he sees who delivered the mighty blow. It’s Lenny looking uncharacteristically fierce, but believable, rubbing his right hamstring muscle in pain.

LENNY(ala Clint Eastwood)

You’ll leak Star’s identity over my dead body.

Standing behind Lenny is Ed and Frank in a solid show of support. Leah can hear everything from her end of the line.Jerry is stunned but senses Lenny, Frank and Ed mean business. He rises on shaky legs and leans over to the speaker-phone.

JERRYStar...I was just kidding about revealing your identity.

EDAnd tell her United Features Syndicate will be picking up the tab for syndicating the remaining “Greta the Cat” comic strips.

FRANKAs well as reimbursing her for the money she already spent.

LENNYAnd tell her that we’re sorry we didn’t stop you sooner.

118.

JERRYStar...

LEAHI heard everything. You’re all forgiven. Even you, Jerry.

EDAnd not only is he forgiven, but he’s also fired!

JERRYWhat?

Jerry collapses into his chair defeated. Ed, Frank and Lenny smile victoriously.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – CONTINUOUS

Leah is overcome with joy. She hugs her cat Leah.

INT. ED WEBSTER’S OFFICE – NEXT MORNING

Frank excitedly reads “Greta the Cat” to Ed and Lenny.

PANEL ONE: The star is brighter than before, pulsating with great force. The lawyer is shaking with fright.

GRETADo you feel the vibration?A change is taking place!An unstoppable movementAt a quickening pace!

PANEL TWO:

LAWYERHUH!? THIS IS WHERE I GET OFF!

GRETAThere’s no getting off!There’s no going back!There’s only going forward!It’s as simple as that!

PANEL THREE: The outer shell of the star explodes with a brilliant burst of light sending everything and everyone flying. Greta holds fast to her bag with the lawyer in tow.

LAWYERMOMMYYYYYYY!!!!!!

119.

PANEL FOUR: What’s left of the star begins a massive swirling motion of energy as it becomes a black hole.

INT. LEAH’S KITCHEN – NEXT MORNING

Chuck reads “Greta the Cat” to Leah and Marie.

PANEL ONE: Greta has the frightened lawyer by the hand as they are being pulled into the black hole.

LAWYERHELLLPPPP!!!

GRETAHelp is what you’re getting!Help’s here, right inside!The tunnel holds the answer!Relax! Enjoy the ride!

PANEL TWO: Greta speaks directly to the readers as she and the lawyer draw ever closer to the mouth of the black hole.

GRETA (CONT’D)Know that you are powerful!Each and every one!Create the world you want!Believe it can be done!

PANEL THREE: The lawyer is more relaxed as he accepts a fate that actually sounds really nice. Greta continues to talk directly to the readers.

LAWYERHEY, THIS ISN’T SO BAD! I feel ...wonderful!

GRETAMake the cosmic leap of faith!The change will happen sooner!And most importantlyKEEP YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR!

PANEL FOUR: Greta and the lawyer happily enter the black hole.

GRETA (CONT’D)Here we go!Towards a future burning bright!From this moment onDarkness gives way to light!

120.

INT. MIA’S THRIFT SHOP – LATER

Leah has entered and looks around for Mia. She can’t find her. She approaches a MAN standing behind the cash register.

LEAHExcuse me. Is Mia working today?

MANNo. Mia doesn’t work here anymore. She sold the store to me.

LEAHShe did?

MANPractically gave it away for free. She sure has a funny way of doing business.

LEAHYes, she does. Did she say where she went to?

MANNo. She only said that her work was done here and it was time for her to go home. Are you by chance, Leah?

LEAHYes!

He reaches under the counter and pulls out an envelope and hands it to Leah.

MANAGERMia told me to give this to you. Excuse me, I see I’m needed in the book section.

He leaves Leah alone to open the envelope. She pulls out a letter and begins reading it to herself. We HEAR Mia’s VOICE.

LEAH“Dear, Star: I’m so sorry I didn’tget a chance to say goodbye in person.I know you’ll forgive me. Thanks so much for attempting your miracle. Ifeel the results already. Your sending “Greta the Cat” into the tunnel of love with that bag full of anger and fear did more good than you’ll ever know. You need to know something.

(MORE)

121.

There really is a magical place that transforms bad feelings and thoughts into pure love. It’s found within your heart and is always ready and eager to work its wonders for you. I hope you had a nice trip. Love, Mia Langen”. (Leah repeats Mia’s last name to herself) Langen?

At the bottom of the page there is a fingerprint with instructions next to it:

“Place your right index finger here.”

Leah does so and gets an electrical shock just like she did when she first touched Mia’s finger. At the same moment the paper disappears in a flash. Mia’s childlike laughter can be heard. Leah can only laugh in wonder.

EXT. UNITED FEATURES SYNDICATE – NEXT DAY/CHRISTMAS EVE

It’s late in the day; darkness is already settling making the holiday decorations all the more enchanting.

INT. FRANK’S OFFICE – SAME MOMENT

Frank is seated at his desk working. Ed and Lenny enter in good holiday spirits.

EDHey, it’s Christmas Eve! Go home to your family!

LENNYYeah, it’s Christmas for Christ’s sake!

FRANKJust wrappin’ up a little business.I’ll be leavin’ in a minute.

ED/LENNYMerry Christmas!

FRANKMerry Christmas to you!

Ed and Lenny leave enjoying the good mood. Frank pauses a moment to reflect on all that’s happened. He can’t help but chuckle. Deciding he’s done for the day he gets up, grabs his coat and reaches for the light switch.

LEAH (CONT'D)

122.

INT. HALLWAY – MOMENTS LATER

Frank locks up his office door then proceeds down the hallway. As he passes Jerry’s office he notices the door is open and peers in. The room has already been cleared out except for a few books, some miscellaneous papers and a large manila envelope lying on top of the bookshelf. Frank’s curiosity gets the best of him and he picks up the manila envelope and peers inside. He pulls out a collection of papers. Perusing them he immediately smiles, then chuckles, then laughs out loud. He places the pages back inside the envelope, hangs on to it and leaves with a big smile on his face.

INT. MARIE’S BEDROOM – THAT NIGHT

Leah is tucking a very happy Marie into bed.

MARIEI’m so glad “Greta the Cat” made it to the tunnel of love!

LEAHMe, too. You know there really is atunnel of love just like that.

MARIEReally, where?

LEAHIt’s within your heart. Within everybody’s heart. So whenever youget angry or scared, just send it to your heart to be transformed into love.

MARIEThat’s what I’m going to do fromnow on.

LEAHMe, too. Now go to sleep so Santa can come and bring you your presents!

MARIEYeah! I love you, mommy.

LEAHI love you, Marie.

Leah kisses her good night and gets up to leave. Just as she reaches the door Marie speaks up.

123.

MARIEMommy? Will we ever see “Greta the Cat” again?

LEAHI think there’s a pretty good chance. One more time.

MARIEGood.

LEAHSweet dreams, sweetheart.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO – LATER THAT NIGHT

Leah is sitting at the table petting her cat Greta studying the wooden blocks laying before her. The blocks spell out the name:

MIA LANGEN

LEAH (CONT’D)(talking to her cat)

Well, Greta, that was quite a trip. Thank you. And thank you Mia Langen, whoever you are.

After a few more moments of thought Leah rearranges the blocks, writing the words:

I’M AN ANGEL

Leah can only wonder and laugh at this final revelation. She recalls when they first met when Mia said:

INT. THRIFT SHOP - MONTHS EARLIER

LEAHWhat happens to us as we get older?

MIAWe grow up to become adorable adult angels.

INT. LEAH’S STUDIO - PRESENT TIME

Chuck comes in looking fatigued.

CHUCKNext year we only buy toys that are already assembled.

Chuck suddenly stops as though struck by a great vision.

124.

LEAHWhat?

CHUCKI was just taken by how really beautiful you are.

LEAHWow! Miracles really do happen. Thank you. That’s so nice of you to say.

Leah rises and gives Chuck a warm loving hug.

LEAH (CONT’D)Know something? You’re a pretty great guy.

CHUCKThanks. And you’re a pretty great gal. You’ve made Marie very happy. Not to mention millions of other people.

LEAHI have an idea that will make Marie even happier. And you, too.

CHUCKWhat?

LEAHLet’s give Marie a little brother or sister.

CHUCKWhat?! Really?!

LEAHReally. I want to...now.

CHUCKWow! Miracles really do happen! Thisis a merry Christmas!

Leah leads Chuck out of the studio. The phone rings; the answering machine picks up. A familiar voice comes on.

VOICELeah, hi. This is Frank Olander. I apologize for calling on Christmas Eve but I felt you might like to hear some good news. I found your original submission of “Peaches the Pup” inJerry’s office. I love them! Lennythinks he can sell it and I do, too.

(MORE)

125.

Let’s talk after the holidays aboutgetting “Peaches the Pup” out into the world. Merry Christmas!

EXT. LEAH’S NEIGHBORHOOD – NEXT MORNING

A breathtaking sunrise begins this most special of days.

INT. LEAH’S KITCHEN – SAME MOMENT

Leah sits at the table sipping coffee feeling very content. She has taken the wooden blocks and has written the name

PEACHES.

She thinks for a moment then removes two blocks from the name. Her eyes redden with tears at the new word. Chuck and Marie run in excitedly with the newspaper already opened.

MARIEMommy, look at “Greta the Cat”!

Marie holds the newspaper so that Leah can see.

MARIE (CONT’D)Isn’t she beautiful!?

LEAHYes. Never more beautiful.

They take a moment to gaze upon the picture. Chuck places an arm around Marie and Leah and brings them in close.

CHUCKHey, let’s go see what Santa Clausbrought us!

MARIEYeah!!!

Marie and Chuck race into the living room. Leah places the final “Greta the Cat” comic strip next to the word that made her cry.

PEACE

Leah takes a final look at “Greta the Cat” who is now a glorious shooting star streaking across a night sky.

FADE OUT.

VOICE (CONT'D)

126.