The practicing MISSION of politicians: KICK THE CAN
Down the road the can goes.
Where it stops nobody knows.

© 2025 Larry L. Croft   All Rights Reserved

Reproduction of this document for any reason in any form  without written permission from Larry L. Croft is denied

 

Except for the following names, any mention of same or similar names in this speculative film script is purely unintentional.

 D.B. Cooper

Jesus Christ

John Gotti    

Douglas MacArthur

George Patton

Pete Rose

George Herman "Babe" Ruth

 

The Script 


 THE RISE, FALL AND SURVIVAL OF WILMA RISER

HOW THE GREAT USA CRUMBLED

WHEN CITIZENS STOPPED MINDING THE STORE.


Written by Larry Croft


Cotocachi, Ecuador

Email larrycroftec@gmail.com

BLACK SCREEN

SUPER: "During the latter years of the twentieth century, the United States of America was virtually destroyed by siblings Wilma and Wilmer Riser. This film describes events leading to and culminating with the massive destruction of the Land of Opportunity and the fate of the Riser siblings."

FADE IN:


INT. AERIAL VIEW INDIANAPOLIS - DAY 

SUPER: "INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA"

SERIES OF SHOTS - INDIANAPOLIS ATTRACTIONS

-- Indianapolis Motor Speedway

-- Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument

-- Children's Museum of Indianapolis

-- Indiana Statehouse

-- Indiana World War 252Memorial Plaza


EXT. AN INDIANAPOLIS HIGH SCHOOL - DAY

Senior WILMA RISER and her friends ITSY and BITSY are walking home from school.

Pesky BILLY VICTOR, on roller skates, feigns an accidental bump into Wilma then does a backflip.

BILLY

Impressive huh? Oh, hi Wilma.

WILMA

Hi Billy.

ITSY

Hey, Billy. We are here too. How about a hi for us?

BILLY

Oh yeah. Hi girls. Well, gotta go.

Billy rolls onward with repeated backflips as the girls laugh.


BITSY

You know, Wilma, he has a crush on you.

WILMA

Yeah, yeah. He just wants my dad's money.

All giggle.

BITSY

He wants more than that.

WILMA

What's that supposed to mean?

BITSY

Guess.

ITSY

He tells everyone he is going to marry you someday.

WILMA

Have you heard him?

ITSY

Well....

BITSY

I have. He told me he'll love you 'til he dies. He said he will follow you everywhere you go.

Wilma's smile suggests she enjoys Bitsy's comment.

BITSY (CONT’D)

And, if you reject him, he will get revenge. Then he hummed some country music song.

WILMA

Get outa here.

BITSY

Why do you not like him? Is it because of his missing eye?

WILMA

I don't dislike him. I avoid him because he is too full of himself.

The girls kick rocks down the street before parting company, laughing on the way to their homes.


Wilma looks back at Itsy and Bitsy when she hears them sing the song Billy hummed.


EXT. THE RISER HOME - DAY

A beautiful three-story Victorian-era house located on a well- groomed two-acre lot in an upper-class Indianapolis neighborhood.

Behind the house is a separate structure with an indoor swimming pool, a two-lane bowling alley and a single basketball goal.

An outdoor tennis court is next to the separate structure.


INT. THE RISER HOME - MOMENTS LATER

Wilma's mother JANICE RISER greets Wilma with a pleasant surprise.

MOM

Hey, sunshine. Got good news in the mail. I opened it. Just as anxious as you.

Mom hands Wilma an envelope. Wilma reads the first few lines.

WILMA

Oh my gosh. I'm in. I'm going to be a West Point Cadet.

MOM

Shouldn't surprise you. With your four-point grade average and a member of Mensa International, did you expect rejection?

WILMA

No. But you never know.

Wilma and her mom hug.

Wilma's father, STEPHEN RISER, comes home.

He removes his jacket, drapes it over a chair and sets his briefcase next to the chair.

DAD

How are the girls?


WILMA

Fine. Look at this. West Point accepted me. Proud of me?

Dad raises his eyebrows, lowers his head, and looks straight at Wilma in a teasing way.

DAD

Sure, but prouder if it were from Annapolis. Like mine was back in the day.



All laugh.


Grump.

WILMA


INT. WEST POINT MILITARY ACADEMY - DAY GYMNASIUM

Cadets are performing demanding push-ups, sit-ups, squats, chin-ups and sit-ups.

AN INSTRUCTOR approaches Wilma.

INSTRUCTOR

We have been doing various calisthenics during the previous three weeks. You are not meeting physical fitness requirements.

The normally talkative Wilma merely nods her head in agreement without speaking.

INSTRUCTOR (CONT’D)

I will send my assessment of your physical skills to my superior along with my recommendation that you are separated from the academy.

Wilma shows disappointment but composes herself and addresses the instructor with proper military protocol.

WILMA

Thank you, sir.

LOCKER ROOM

She refreshes herself, gathers her belongings and leaves the building.


EXT. PARK BENCH - DAY

Wilma views the Hudson River crying and holding a tissue. Cadet WALLY DOWNEY sees her.

Smiling, he walks quickly to her.

They talk and leave together holding hands.


EXT. ALONG THE HUDSON RIVER - DAY

WILMA

I'm deeply troubled. I wonder if I will achieve success during my life. Not measuring up during Beast has taken a toll. A big disappointment.

WALLY

You can and you will. I know you very well. I love you too.

WILMA

Somehow, this doesn't seem like the time to talk about love.

They face each other and kiss while holding hands. Wally's hat falls from his head.

Wilma picks it up and, more relaxed, she intentionally places it cockeyed on his head.

They look at each other, smile, kiss again, and keep walking.

WALLY

Remember this. I will always stand beside you. No matter how far apart we live, no matter the years that go by, and no matter the issue.


INT. WILMA'S PARENT'S HOME - DAY

Phone rings.


Hello.

MOM


WILMA (V.O.)

Hi mom. It's me.


MOM

Why are you calling? Aren't you in class?

WILMA (V.O.)

No. I washed out. I'm at the airport. Be home in an hour. I'll explain then.

Wilma disconnects the line.

Mom rolls her eyes, turns off the vacuum sweeper, sits on the sofa leaning forward, and places her chin on both hands.

MOM

Whoa.


INT. PARENT'S HOME - EVENING DINING ROOM

Wilma, her parents, and her older brother of two years, WILMER RISER, gather at the dinner table.

The normal rhythm of passing dishes around the table is gone. Uptightness abounds.

WILMER

Green beans, Dad?

Dad doesn't respond. He stares at his plate.

WILMER (CONT’D)

Dad, this dish is getting heavy.

DAD

Oh, yeah. Sorry Wil. Thank you.

Similar lapses by all doom the meal. Dad spills iced tea on his dress shirt. Wilma and Mom rush to help Dad.

Wilmer scoffs food in his usual gung-ho way.

MOM

We are sorry to hear West Point didn't work out for you, Wilma.


DAD

Yeah, but don't let it get you down. You have everything going for you.

All clumsily pass food dishes around the table.

DAD (CONT’D)

Transitioning from high school to an elite military academy is tough for everyone. Annapolis was tough for me.

WILMA

Oh. I know. I don't know why I didn't realize the academy is different than civilian schools.

Embarrassed, Wilma studies the faces of Mom and Dad.

WILMA (CONT’D)

I didn't measure up during Beast. I never thought it would --

WILMER

-- What's Beast?

WILMA

Another word for Cadet Basic Training.

The famished Wilmer puts food scoffing on hold, jerks a smiling face toward Wilma.

WILMER

So, they booted your ass --

Mom jumps up abruptly and points her fork toward Wilmer. She holds it to his face.

MOM

-- Wilmer. Watch your mouth. Show respect.

Startled, Wilmer bolts upright in his chair. Mom sits down.

MOM (CONT’D)

She is an all-American girl. World class. The girl next door. And you?

Mom looks at Wilmer showing contempt.


Wilmer looks at Wilma.

WILMER

Whatever. With your black belt know- how, you should have shoved a knee into somebody's undercarriage.

MOM

That's enough.

WILMER

Anyway, those generals always gas up the elevators. Not with laughing gas either.

Dad slaps his hand on the table. Raises his voice.

DAD

Listen to your mother.

WILMA

No general had anything to do with me leaving.

WILMER

Whatever. Gotta go. Good dinner, Mom. Thanks for the parenting exercise too.

Wilmer folds his napkin and leaves the room with an earsplitting horselaugh.

Wilma giggles, Dad chuckles, and Mom sits red-faced.

WILMA

Where is he going?

DAD

Who knows?

MOM

You know he will be out somewhere tearing up jack.

DAD

I know. Hope I don't have to get him out of jail again.

Dad stares at the wall. FLASHBACK


EXT. MARION COUNTY INDIANA JAIL - NIGHT PARKING LOT

DAD

Damn you Wilmer. Don't you ever pull this stunt again. I'm a son of a bitch if I come here again because of your doings.

WILMER

I bet you did some bad things when you were a kid.

DAD

We are talking about you, not me. Now, get in the car and shut up. You got that?

Wilmer pouts, doesn't look at Dad.

WILMER

Yes sir.

DAD

Besides, I never pissed on a police car.

They drive home in silence. BACK TO PRESENT DAY

MOM

That year at the reform school didn't make him a bit better person.

DAD

And he still has those recurring dreams about Wilma's life cut short because of her own doings.

WILMA

He believes them too. Even the reform school psychologist says Wilmer believes them.

DAD

Well, I hope he turns his life around while we are alive.

Dad looks at Mom.


DAD (CONT’D)

I don't want either of us going to our graves with him on the FBI ten most wanted list. It could happen too.

MOM

I worry about him all the time. I often cry myself to sleep. Anyway, I have heard enough.

Abruptly, Mom leaves the table.

DAD

Well, I'm done too.

WILMA

Me too. Sorry that I caused this. Even more sorry my brother is elevator gas himself.

Dad laughs, Wilma grins, and Mom glares at both. Wilma and Mom begin cleaning the dining area.

Dad goes to the LIVING ROOM

and plops down in his easy chair with a book. He closes his eyes, falls asleep.

KITCHEN

MOM

What are your plans now?

WILMA

I'll apply to other schools. I'll recover. Hey, I have something to show you. Excuse me.

Wilma leaves the kitchen and returns with a framed picture.

WILMA (CONT’D)

This is Wally. He might be my future.

Mom studies the picture.

MOM

I'm impressed. I hope it works out as you want.


WILMA

We'll see. I'm afraid he'll be sent to a war zone. He helped me through this mess and all. I feel better knowing him.

MOM

That's good. I'm happy for you.

WILMA

I'm still bothered.

MOM

The Army isn't everything, you know.

WILMA

That's not the point. The point is I had a misstep on the first rung of the ladder.

MOM

You haven't failed. And you won't. It's like Dad said. You have a lot going for you.


INT. TOPS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW - NIGHT

TOPS School of Law DEAN HENRY STONE honors Wilma for her outstanding achievements.

HENRY STONE

And now we wish to acknowledge Wilma Riser, a young lady who has excelled here at TOPS Law School.

WILMA

Thank you Dean Stone. Distinguished guests, beloved faculty, cherished family, friends and my esteemed fellow graduates.

Wilma pauses, gazes the audience.

WILMA (CONT’D)

As we assemble under the banner of accomplishment and anticipation, I am profoundly honored to address you as the valedictorian of this graduating class.

Wilma pauses for a few seconds smiling at the audience.


WILMA (CONT’D)

As we close this chapter and begin anew, let us step forward with hope, determination, and the unyielding spirit of a graduate ready to make a difference.

Wilma brushes her hand over her hair.

WILMA (CONT’D)

Congratulations, classmates. Our adventure is just beginning.


INT. THE STOCKYARD RESTAURANT - NIGHT

The Riser family dines at Indianapolis' most upscale restaurant celebrating Wilma's graduation from law school.

As Mom, Dad, Wilmer, and Wilma raise their champagne glasses, Dad proposes the toast.

DAD

To the world's oyster upon her graduation from law school, her third graduation from a school of higher learning.

WILMER

Don't you mean the world is her oyster?

DAD

Well, that too. But I meant what I said. She is here for the whole wide world.

Dad looks into Wilma's eyes.

DAD (CONT’D)

We are proud of you, Wilma.

WILMER

Uh-oh sis. Here comes your longtime nemesis.

Wilma looks up startled. She recognizes the right eye patch before realizing it is Billy Victor.

WILMA

My gosh! Billy. Billy Victor. It has been years. How have you been?


BILLY

I've been fine. Congratulations on your many achievements. Let's step over there. I want to talk to you.

Wilma and Billy walk a few steps from the Riser table.

BILLY (CONT’D)

I just want to tell you I will get your pompous Mensan ass someday for giving me the cold shoulder all those years growing up. And, don't you forget it!

WILMA

Billy, you should be --

BILLY

-- I have a long memory.

Billy walks off in a huff.

Unperturbed, Wilma returns to the table.

MOM

Was nice of Billy to stop by.

WILMA

Not really. Billy wasn't nice at all. He was just being Billy.

MOM

Oh. Sounds like we should change the subject.

WILMA

Please.

The festive evening continues into the wee hours with unexpected well-wishers dropping by.

Mom sits taking it all in with a smile on her face and a twinkle in each eye.


INT. WILMA'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Excited, Wilma hums a lively tune while decorating her newly acquired apartment.

She selects clothing in preparation for an employment interview tomorrow with JACK THOMAS, managing partner with the law firm Thomas, Lynch and Ward.


She falls asleep while holding Wally's photograph.


INT. LAW OFFICE OF THOMAS LYNCH AND WARD - DAY

RECEPTIONIST

(using the intercom)

Mister Thomas, Wilma Riser is here for her interview.

JACK THOMAS (V.O.)

Thank you. Please bring her in.

RECEPTIONIST

Please follow me Ms. Riser.

The receptionist escorts Wilma to Jack Thomas' very impressive office.

Paintings adorn the walls.

Thomas' desk, the office chairs and sofa are made of African Blackwood.

JACK THOMAS' OFFICE

JACK

Would you like coffee or tea?

WILMA

Tea please.

Thomas hands her a cup of tea. Wilma adds sugar.

JACK

You have an impressive resume, Wilma.

WILMA

Thank you.

JACK

Three college degrees. And three perfect grade point averages. I don't see much of that. Never actually.

WILMA

Thank you, Mister Thomas.


JACK

I have never met your father, but I've always admired his business skills. Self-made billionaires are rare - very rare. I dare say you are a chip off the old block.

Wilma smiles.

JACK (CONT’D)

And his military achievements too. Many men would have given five years of their lives to be a heroic wartime submarine commander as was he and become a retired admiral.

WILMA

Yes, my mother, brother and I admire him too.

JACK

I would say you have inherited much from your father.

Jack opens a folder placed in the center of his well- organized desk decorated with two Yogi Berra bobblehead dolls.

He brushes one of the dolls as he opens the folder. Yogi nods a few times.

JACK (CONT’D)

You have excellent credentials. I know from my experience that law school can drive you nutty.

Chemistry and political science can't be easy either.

Jack silently reads the letter he takes from the folder. Wilma sees it is from the U.S. Army.

JACK (CONT’D)

West Point training is quite grueling. Well, you obviously didn't let it hinder your future. To tell the truth, I washed out of flight training.

WILMA

Failing at West Point has been my only real disappointment.


JACK

Judging from what I learned about you, I don't think you will have many disappointments during your life.

Jack rises from his chair and motions to Wilma.

JACK (CONT’D)

Come with me. I want you to meet the team.

OFFICE BULLPEN

Jack shows Wilma around and introduces her to his partners, MARVIN LYNCH, and DAVID WARD.

Wilma nods expressing satisfaction.

As they leave the bullpen, Wilma notices and appreciates looks of acceptance.

JACK THOMAS' OFFICE

JACK (CONT’D)

Wilma, I am pleased to offer you an entry-level position in our personal injury division.

Wilma's facial expression encourages Thomas.

JACK (CONT’D)

Think it over. Please call me tomorrow. We can talk about job duties, salary, benefits, and other matters.

WILMA

Thank you so much, Mr. Thomas.

Jack Thomas escorts Wilma to the ground-level entrance. Wilma extends her hand.

They shake hands in a business-like way.


INT. WILMA'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

As Wilma enters her apartment, she sees a sealed envelope addressed to PMA just inside the door.

Wilma opens the envelope and reads the very short message.


“I'm watching you.”

Worried, she goes to bed around midnight, leaving the television on. She has a restless night tossing and turning.


EXT. LOS ANGELES - DAY

A strong early morning earthquake jolts the city causing minor structural damage of cracking walls.

Heavy rocks falling from a canyon wall severely damage a major roadway, causing a nine car pileup.

Twenty people are killed with no survivors.


INT. WILMA'S APARTMENT - DAY

Wilma screams loudly and uncontrollably.

A elderly male neighbor breaks down her locked apartment door and provides comfort to Wilma who is speaking incoherently.

WILMA

I saw on the news a story about a California earthquake. I saw a car. I recognized its license plate.

It's my parent’s car. There are no survivors.

Wilma stops screaming but experiences hyperventilation. The neighbor calls 911.

An ambulance takes Wilma to a hospital.


INT. COMMUNITY HOSPITAL - DAY

A crew rolls Wilma on a stretcher to the EMERGENCY ROOM

where triage personnel evaluate Wilma's condition.

When her breathing returns to normal, she is transported to a PRIVATE ROOM

Doctor ROGER BOBAL attends to Wilma.


DOCTOR BOBAL

You are much better than when I first saw you. Your vital signs are strong. How do you feel?

WILMA

Good now. When may I go home?

DOCTOR BOBAL

Right now if you are ready.

WILMA

Yes, I'm ready. Thank you so much.

DOCTOR BOBAL

You will be fine. Here are two prescriptions. Use the medication if you feel the need to do so.

She gathers her belongings and leaves the room.


INT. MARION COUNTY INDIANA JAIL - DAY

Wilma enters the main entrance as another person leaves. He holds the door open for Wilma.

She is escorted to the visitor's room.

WILMER

Good of you to come.

WILMA

I didn't come to be good. I came with bad news. Mom and Dad were killed yesterday during a California earthquake.

WILMER

Huh? How? Did Billy Victor send a hitman? He always said he would get us all.

WILMA

In your line of work, you know all about hit men, don't you? No, they were hit by an earthquake, not by an earthman.

Wilma emphasizes the syllables quake and man. Wilmer sits motionless pondering.


WILMER

Only you and I remain. And you might bite the dust before me.

WILMA

Why do you say that?

WILMER

You yourself once said Billy is out to do you in for giving him the cold shoulder. He wanted to marry you.

WILMA

That was just an expression.

Wilmer raises his eyebrows, looks her in the eyes, turns his palms up, and shrugs his shoulders.

Wilma gives him the evil eye.

WILMA (CONT’D)

You should care but you don't even though you just inherited more money than you have ever earned legally.

Wilma shows disgust.

WILMA (CONT’D)

How long are you here this time? What is this, number three?

WILMER

Don't know.

WILMA

Why are you here?

Wilmer responds in his usual nonchalant way.

WILMER

They say spitting on the sidewalk. But they don't have evidence.

Wilma ignores his cockiness.

WILMA

Are you guilty?

WILMER

Innocent 'til proven guilty. With that law degree, don't you know these things?


WILMA

Someday I might be your friend. Until then, I'm only your sister. And, not by choice.

WILMER

Yeah, boy. Until you need my help. Right?

WILMA

That's it. I'm outa here.

Wilma calls the guard.

He opens the door for her exit. She doesn't look back.

INT. LAW OFFICE OF THOMAS LYNCH AND WARD - DAY SUPER: "TEN YEARS LATER"

JACK THOMAS' OFFICE

JACK

Wilma, you have exceeded our highest expectations. My partners and I believe you have much more to offer society than you can here.

WILMA

Thank you, Mr. Thomas. I have been entertaining thoughts of entering politics. I know I can benefit the community if I were to serve as a member of the city council.

JACK

No. No. Set your sights higher. Think about the United States Senate.

Wilma’s facial expression shows awe.

JACK (CONT’D)

Employment here has brought you a wealth of publicity and popularity. You are respected throughout the entire state of Indiana.


WILMA

Thank you, Mr. Thomas. I will do as you suggest. Please accept my resignation effective two weeks from today.

JACK

You are very welcome. Resignation accepted. My partners and I have thought long and hard about this.

WILMA

I won’t disappoint. I’ll make a difference. You’ll see. Wow. This a chance of a lifetime. A real turning point. A new direction.

Wilma leaves Jack Thomas’ office with more than the usual pep in her step.


INT. TLW CONFERENCE ROOM - DAY

Attorneys and staff assemble in a large conference room. A catering service brings food and drinks.

The mood quickly becomes festive.

JACK

It's the thing to say at going away parties but we sincerely mean it, Wilma. We hate to see you go. You are a remarkable person. Top notch, like everyone here.

Applause.

Thomas shifts his gaze from Wilma to the group.

JACK (CONT’D)

Now, Mr. Lynch and Mr. Ward have a couple of words. I told the two marathon talkers to keep it short and that this party is for Wilma, not for them.

Laughter all around.

MARVIN LYNCH

Thanks a lot, Mister Boombox.

More laughter


MARVIN LYNCH (CONT’D)

Yes, and I will keep it short. Wilma has done wonders.

As he speaks, Lynch walks over to a large window.

He views gorgeous Indianapolis from the fortieth floor. Lynch turns around and winks toward Wilma.

MARVIN LYNCH (CONT’D)

And now, she is off to campaign to be one of our two senators. Please join me in giving Wilma the best advice she will ever have.

Lynch looks at Wilma.

MARVIN LYNCH (CONT’D)

Wilma, if you become our senator, don't be a typical politician. Be a honorable human. Best wishes.

WILMA

Thank you, Mr. Lynch. I have a year of campaigning ahead and I will be victorious. With great respect, it is when, not if, I become your senator.

Laughter all around. Applause from all except Jack Thomas who, grinning from ear to ear, proudly shows two thumbs up.

David Ward steps up to the podium.

DAVID WARD

And I will keep it short as well. I am too polished to call our distinguished senior partner some kind of a jerk as he called me.

Laughter from all but especially loud from Jack Thomas.

DAVID WARD (CONT’D)

We are a diverse company. As I look around, I see every color of the rainbow. Wilma has always accepted and respected us for what we are inside. That's how it should be.

Applause and kudos from all.


DAVID WARD (CONT’D)

My partners and I, all Black men, greatly appreciate the respect we get from Wilma. We know that once we would have announced visitors to her home and served coffee.

More applause.

DAVID WARD (CONT’D)

We love you, Wilma. Be sure to come back and visit. Best of luck. This is for you from all of us.

Ward hands Wilma a gift-wrapped box.

She opens the box and sees expensive jewelry. She tears up.

The party ends an hour later with the employees personally wishing everything good for Wilma.

WILMA

Thank you all so much. I'm looking forward to another utopia. Just like the utopia of working here.

Lights go out. Everyone leaves.

The enthusiastic chatter is indistinguishable.


INT. INDIANAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER - EVENING SUPER: "ONE YEAR LATER"

Banners dominate the large ballroom room. Balloons hang from the ceiling.

A band playing patriotic music stops when Wilma steps up to the microphone.

A jubilant Wilma Riser stands at the lectern as the crowd’s robust applause continues.

Wilma signals for quietness and begins her acceptance speech.


WILMA

Thank you so very much for your support. I am honored to become your next United States senator.

Wilma pauses during a renewed wave of applause.

She smiles when she sees the Wilma Riser for Senator buttons on every lapel in sight.

The applause stops.

WILMA (CONT’D)

You can count on me coming through as I promised during the campaign. So now, it's time to celebrate.

The attendees mingle and share small talk until dawn.


INT. WILMA'S APARTMENT - DAY

As Wilma enters after returning from her acceptance speech, she sees a large piece of paper just inside the door showing only a hand drawn middle finger.

WILMA

Probably just Billy Victor. No big deal.

She squeezes the insult, tosses it in the waste can, readies herself for bed and enjoys a well-needed sleep.


INT. RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILDING - DAY

A man knocks at Wilma's open office door. It is Senator TOMMY TRACKER.

SENATOR TRACKER

Good morning, Senator. I'm Tommy Tracker. I want to welcome you to the United States Senate.

Wilma rises from her chair and walks around her desk. They shake hands.

She motions toward a leather chair.

WILMA

Thank you for coming. Please be seated.


Wilma sizes up the clean-shaven Tracker as he walks to the chair nearest her desk.

Standing about five feet and eight inches, she estimates his weight at a chubby two hundred and fifty pounds.

SENATOR TRACKER

Allow me to tell you about me. I'm in my 33rd year as a senator. Notre Dame alumnus. Medical Doctor and Doctor of Philosophy.

WILMA

Very impressive.

SENATOR TRACKER

Yes. My wife passed away last year. Very beautiful. Very charming. Much like you. I sure do get lonely.

Wilma sees Tracker as a pompous bore.

WILMA

Excuse me, please.

She turns her back to Tracker to conceal her disgust and retrieves a box of tissues from a table. She then returns to face him.

She smiles.

WILMA (CONT’D)

Much like me? You don't know me.

SENATOR TRACKER

I will. Besides, we will see a lot of each other. My office is next to yours. Well, got to go. Meetings, you know.

WILMA

May I tell you about my background?

SENATOR TRACKER

You bet. I hear you are remarkable. We'll use your background as a topic of discussion at a fine restaurant in a few days.

Tracker leaves.

Wilma stares at her desk and shakes her head.


INT. WILMA'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Telephone rings.

WILMA

Good evening. This is Wilma.

SENATOR TRACKER (V.O.)

Senator Riser, Tommy Tracker here. I would like you to be my guest for dinner and a stage play Friday.

WILMA

That's very nice of you. Thank you for the invitation but --

SENATOR TRACKER (V.O.)

-- Ah, no buts accepted.

WILMA

Well, I learned many years ago to avoid socializing one-on-one with male work colleagues.

SENATOR TRACKER (V.O.)

Why on Earth would you do that?

WILMA

Doing so often leads to resentment among others in a way that impedes progress. I'm sorry.

SENATOR TRACKER (V.O.)

First-year senators learn very early they have to color between the lines to get along.

Wilma loses interest in the conversation, rolls her eyes, shakes her head, and flips the telephone speaker switch on.

She folds laundry.

She smiles while looking at Wally's picture.

WILMA

Are you threatening me, Senator?

SENATOR TRACKER (V.O.)

No, of course not. I'm sorry I sounded threatening.

WILMA

OK. Again, thank you for calling and thank you for the invitation.


Tracker disconnects with no further comment.

Wilma slowly disconnects while still admiring Wally's picture.


INT. RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILDING - DAY

Wilma unlocks her office door.

Before entering she screams at the sight of two mice eating on her desk.

Tracker hears and rushes in, closes the door and summons help.

The maintenance crew removes the mice and sterilize the room. Tracker leaves.

Wilma returns to work. TRACKER'S OFFICE

Tracker closes the door, raises his arm and pumps his fist above his head.

SENATOR TRACKER

Yeah boy! That'll teach her.


EXT. WASHINGTON D.C. STREET - DAY

As Wilma walks alone after shopping, she is startled by a reflection of a man wearing dark-lens glasses following her.

She recognizes the stalker as Billy Victor.

She attempts to lose Billy by stepping inside a store.


EXT. THE SLEEP PLACE - DAY

Wilma browses about ten minutes while looking for the stalker.

She purchases two large pillows and a queen-size comforter.

Wilma cautiously looks up and down the street and, believing Billy is gone, she leaves the store.


EXT. SIDEWALK - DAY

Wilma window shops ten minutes, expecting to see Billy Victor watching.

She enters a gym for her daily workout.


INT. JIM'S GYM - DAY

About fifteen minutes into her workout, Wilma sees Billy. Her eyebrows raise and her eyes dilate.

He paces the sidewalk, peers in the gym window intermittently during Wilma's entire workout.

As Wilma changes equipment, Billy pretends he doesn't see her.

He turns his back to the gym, reaches inside his coat pocket, takes out a cell phone and places a call.

BILLY

Yeah, she knows I'm tailing her. No, she can't hear me. She is trying to ditch me. Do you want me to take care of her?

SENATOR TRACKER (V.O.)

No, she owes me this. No woman rebuffs me.

BILLY

She's finishing up now. Should be on the street in ten minutes.

SENATOR TRACKER (V.O.)

OK Bill. Good job.

Wilma changes from workout attire to casual attire.

She scans the room, doesn't see Billy and exits the gym.


EXT. THE STREET AT JIM'S GYM - CONTINUOUS

When leaving, she unknowingly walks within six feet of Billy holding a magazine hiding his face from her view as he leans against a light post.

She begins crossing the street. A car peels out from the curb leaving a cloud of smoke from burning rubber.

Wilma screams.


The car is soon out of sight.


INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - DAY

Wilma awakens to the smile of a nurse.

NURSE

You are doing very well. Do you feel any pain?

WILMA

Thank you. No, no pain. Please tell me why I am here.

NURSE

A car struck you as you crossed the street. You were in the crosswalk. A witness said you were walking with the walk light.

WILMA

Now I remember. What is my condition?

NURSE

Vital signs are good. No broken bones. No bruises. Your shopping bag protected you. The doctor will probably release you tomorrow.

WILMA

Were other people hit?

NURSE

Only you. Several witnesses believe you were hit on purpose. The police are investigating.

WILMA

What does the driver say?

NURSE

The driver left the scene. Was a hit-and-run. I'll check on you later. Ring if you need me.

The nurse leaves and greets two uniformed police officers, Hank and Molly.

They enter Wilma's room.


HANK

The nurse tells us you are in good condition, Senator. What can you tell us about the accident?

WILMA

I don't really know what happened other than a car sideswiped me.

HANK

Could you see the car?

WILMA

Not good. I can't describe it. It came from behind. I hardly saw it. I jumped back but not far enough. I was busy protecting myself.

MOLLY

We have reason to believe the act was intentional. Do you have any enemies that could have done this?

WILMA

As a politician, I have had many disagreements. But with nobody that would do this.

Wilma's facial expression suggests otherwise.

WILMA (CONT’D)

Well, Senator Tommy Tracker has been quite caustic since I refused a social invitation from him five years ago. Even now, he never lets up.

MOLLY

Anybody else?

WILMA

Yes. Billy Victor, the newsman. He has been harassing me since high school.

Molly makes notes in a small notepad.

HANK

Thank you, Senator. We'll investigate further and be in touch as needed.



Thank you.

WILMA


Hank and Molly smile and leave.


INT. WILMA'S APARTMENT - NIGHT BEDROOM

Wilma awakes from a sound sleep at the sound of a knock at the apartment door.

She throws on a robe and enters the LIVING ROOM

where she finds a typewritten note inserted under the door. She reads the note.

"Wilma, look over your shoulder everywhere you go. I'm always nearby."

She spends a restless night upright in a chair trying to watch television.


EXT. WASHINGTON D.C. SIDEWALK CAFÉ - DAY

Wilma and colleague, DONNA JEANNE MARION, begin discussing senatorial issues.

Wilma suddenly interrupts with an uncharacteristic outburst.

WILMA

It has to stop!

She bangs her fist on the table.

WILMA (CONT’D)

I'm sorry. But I have to know. I’ve been stalked night and day. All the men senators hate me. What's going on?

DONNA JEANNE

They resent those who show them up. You do that with class.

Donna Jeanne waves to a colleague who waves back.

DONNA JEANNE (CONT’D)

Hi Barbara.

Barbara approaches.


DONNA JEANNE (CONT’D)

Barbara, this is Senator Wilma Riser.

Wilma and Barbara exchange pleasantries.

BARBARA

I’ve heard about you, Wilma.

Barbara quickly looks at Donna Jeanne.

DONNA JEANNE

How is everything on your side of the aisle, Barbara?

BARBARA

Just another day in paradise. Tracker is riding with a burr on the saddle. Complaining about some woman.

Wilma looks at Donna Jeanne

DONNA JEANNE

Oh?

BARBARA

You don't want to know.

Wilma looks at Donna Jeanne.

BARBARA (CONT’D)

Well, I better get back.

Barbara smiles at Wilma and leaves.

DONNA JEANNE

So, Senator Tracker has a burr on the saddle. Something to do with a woman.

WILMA

Probably about me. That might be her way of sending me a veiled warning.

DONNA JEANNE

Does Tracker have a reason to think of you in bad light?

WILMA

No, but I think he believes he does.

(MORE)

WILMA (CONT’D)

Senator Tracker pesters me nonstop. So does Billy Victor, the newsman.

DONNA JEANNE

You're not alone with Tracker. We all avoid him when we can. Everyone calls him Senator Tactless. What about Billy Victor?

WILMA

He is a childhood acquaintance. It's interesting. Both he and Tracker tried to date me. I turned both away.

Donna Jeanne's face shows surprise.

WILMA (CONT’D)

One male senator told me I'm the only woman he knows that doesn't know which fork to use. Have I met my Waterloo?

DONNA JEANNE

Probably not. You are proper and professional. Your approval ratings have always been high.

WILMA

Everyone is so vicious. When I ask what would Jesus do, others ask what would John Gotti do.

DONNA JEANNE

Do you know the big thing your peers resent about you?

WILMA

No. Tell me.

DONNA JEANNE

To them, you come across as a rich goody-goody.

WILMA

Why?

DONNA JEANNE

Jealously. You are a wholesome achieving woman. Men don't like women one-upping them.

WILMA

What should I do?


DONNA JEANNE

Stay just as you are. They know your work has merit.

Donna Jeanne starts to talk but hesitates.

WILMA

Go on.

DONNA JEANNE

The men still laugh about Tracker telling you it would be easier for you to urinate up a rope than drain the swamp.

WILMA

Well, the swamp needs draining. Most members think Congress is for their personal enrichment. Not for the people's enrichment.

Wilma emphasizes the word personal while shaking her head slowly.

Donna Jeanne looks at the check and takes money from her purse.

WILMA (CONT’D)

Anything else I should know?

DONNA JEANNE

Yes. Billy Victor. Be careful. He and Tracker are as thick as thieves.

WILMA

I wish I knew why. Then, maybe I could fix things. Does anyone know why?

DONNA JEANNE

I don't know but let me guess. They might think if they can't have you, nobody can.

Wilma's facial expression clearly show impending defeat.

DONNA JEANNE (CONT’D)

They have most of the men senators calling you the rich bitch.

WILMA

Excuse me. I want to think.


Wilma steps a few feet from their table. Donna Jeanne watches.

Wilma dabs her eyes with a tissue.

As Wilma returns, Donna Jeanne shakes her head and dabs her eyes too.

DONNA JEANNE

Victor looks for dirt on you. He only gets made-up stories. He knows it but prints them anyway.

Wilma drums her fingers on the table while Donna Jeanne talks.

DONNA JEANNE (CONT’D)

People love reading about shady politicians you know. Victor milks it for all it's worth.

WILMA

How does he keep his job?

DONNA JEANNE

He kisses up to his boss.

WILMA

It figures.

DONNA JEANNE

Also, many around here believe he has an underworld connection which might intimidate his boss.

WILMA

Thank you for telling me what others won't.

As they leave, Donna Jeanne gives up talking to the spaced- out Wilma.

She attempts humor by waving her hand across Wilma's face.

DONNA JEANNE

Hey, are you in there?

Wilma doesn't reply.


EXT. STEPS OF THE U.S. CAPITOL - DAY

Speaking to large number of television personalities and a small number of curious passersby, Wilma shocks the country.

WILMA

When I came here, I wanted so much to make the United States a better place. I failed.

Media personnel, with writing tools in hand, quickly turn on recorders.

WILMA (CONT’D)

I am extremely discouraged and ashamed of the deception used by the House and Senate members.

The growing number of curious passersby gasp in unison when hearing a high-ranking public official publicly trash all colleagues.

Wilma then denigrates the people.

WILMA (CONT’D)

And to the voters, I ask for what do you use your heads? Hat racks? You elect the scummiest to represent you.

Wilma senses crowd anger building to a fever pitch. She takes a deep breath.

WILMA (CONT’D)

I wanted to make a difference. I wanted to help return the country to what the founders envisioned.

Wilma fields streams of invectives.

WILMA (CONT’D)

You people and your elected officials are mere pimples on the butt of progress.

People spit on her.

She uses a tissue to clean her face and arms, composes herself and attempts to finish.

WILMA (CONT’D)

A few minutes ago, I submitted my resignation letter, effective today.

(MORE)

WILMA (CONT’D)

I will continue working hard from the outside to make a difference.

People storm the steps to have at it with her.

Capitol police officers rush to rescue her, they place barricades separating her and the spectators.

WILMA (CONT’D)

I will provide a way for the people to come together in the spirit of one for all and all for one.

Wilma becomes rattled.

With trembling hands, a shaky voice, and a red face, she manages to finish.

WILMA (CONT’D)

I've been stalked. I've been harassed day and night. I've been hit by a car, a hit the police say was intentional.

Spectators throw personal items at Wilma.

WILMA (CONT’D)

I have a plan and this time I will not fail to achieve my goal. This is not the end of me.

A woman throws an orange, hitting her left elbow.

WILMA (CONT’D)

I've been called all the spiteful names imaginable. Even a bitch.

The angry crowd continues its out-of-control tongue-lashing.

WILMA (CONT’D)

Believe me, I have much more work to do. In the words of my hero, the famous General Douglas MacArthur, I shall return.

With a raised voice, Wilma concludes.

WILMA (CONT’D)

I will make a difference. Mark my words. If I must wear the name, I’ll play the game!

She storms off not looking back.


Reporters clamor with unanswered questions.


INT. THE WASHINGTON NEWS OFFICE - DAY

At the farthest corner of a large room, Billy Victor bangs on a keyboard inside a

TRASHY CUBICAL

A dusty photo of Wilma with a hand drawn middle finger pointing to her nose hangs crookedly on the wall.

Billy hands an article about Wilma's resignation address to his boss, CASH TUBBS.

TUBBS

Sure you want us to go with this?

BILLY

You bet. Why not?

TUBBS

Suggesting she is a lesbian because she never married? The country is long past such bullshit ideas.

Tubbs hands the article back to Billy.

TUBBS (CONT’D)

We'll lose all our readers. Change it.

Billy changes the wording, pulls the revised copy from the printer and hands it to TUBBS.

BILLY

How's this?

TUBBS

Damn you. You have never genuinely praised her. Do it this one time. You seem to have a personal grudge against your childhood chum.

Tubbs leans into Billy's face, rips the article, tosses it on the floor.

Tubbs leaves Billy's cubical in a profanity rage.

Heads pop up over cubicles. Many smile. Some laugh. Most shake their heads.


A man, nicknamed TROUBLE, raises his fist above his head as a symbol of victory.

TROUBLE

Right on, boss. We're on your side. Hot dog. Life is good.


INT. THE WASHINGTON NEWS OFFICE - DAY CASH TUBBS’ OFFICE

Billy and Tubbs sit at opposite sides of Tubbs’ desk facing each other.

TUBBS

Mister Victor, I am letting you go on your goddamned way.

Billy becomes angry with visible hostility brewing.

TUBBS (CONT’D)

You have put more effort into trashing Wilma Riser than you have to satisfying me and to serving our readers.

Billy stands and slams his chair against the wall.

TUBBS (CONT’D)

You can pick up your final paycheck tomorrow at Human Resources. But, for now, pack your personal belongings and leave.

Billy refuses to leave.

BILLY

I'll call my friends. You won't be the tough guy with them. They break bones, you know.

Tubbs jerks his right thumb up hitchhiking style.

TUBBS

Your underworld cronies be damned. Up in five seconds or I'll have security cart your broken bones out of here.

Tubbs presses a button inside his desk drawer.

Security responds quickly and escorts Billy out of the building.


INT. WILMA'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

While packing to leave Washington and head back to Indiana, television news presenter JOHNNY ONSPOT distracts Wilma.

She stops packing and watches.

JOHNNY ONSPOT

Today, four days after Wilma Riser resigned from her senatorial position, she has not been seen in public. Police suspect foul play.

Wilma gasps.

JOHNNY ONSPOT (CONT’D)

In a possible related manner, the body of Senator Tommy Tracker was found today in his Washington apartment.

Wilma screams and staggers to her sofa.

JOHNNY ONSPOT (CONT’D)

Early reports from the police indicate the senator died from a self-inflicted gunshot.

Wilma reaches for Wally Downey's picture.

WILMA

I wish you were with me, Wally.

JOHNNY ONSPOT

The senator left a handwritten note expressing deep remorse about attempting to kill Senator Wilma Riser with his car.

Telephone rings.


Yes.

WILMA

An UNIDENTIFIED MAN responds.

UNIDENTIFIED MAN (V.O.)

Have you heard about Tommy?

WILMA

Senator Tracker?

UNIDENTIFIED MAN (V.O.)

Uh-huh.



Flashback

WILMA

Yes, I heard. Who are you?

UNIDENTIFIED MAN (V.O.)

Doesn't matter. He was my best friend. I've known you and have followed you for years. Here is a warning. Someday, I'll get you.

Until then --

WILMA

-- Tell me who are or I'll hang up and call the police.

UNIDENTIFIED MAN (V.O.)

Until then, I'll follow you wherever you go. You won't know me. My disguises are foolproof. I promise to get your pompous Mensan ass.


INT. THE STOCKYARD RESTAURANT - NIGHT

Wilma looks up startled. She recognizes the right eye patch before realizing it is Billy Victor.

WILMA

My gosh! Billy. Billy Victor. It has been years. How have you been?

BILLY

I've been fine. Congratulations on your many achievements. Let's step over there. I want to talk to you.

Wilma and Billy walk a few steps from the Riser table.

BILLY (CONT’D)

I just want to tell you I will get your pompous Mensan ass someday for giving me the cold shoulder all those years growing up. And, don't you forget it!

WILMA

Billy, you should be --

BILLY

-- I have a long memory.

Billy walks off in a huff.


Unperturbed, Wilma returns to the table. BACK TO PRESENT DAY

WILMA

I know who you are. Only one person has ever called me a pompous Mensan. You are Billy Victor. You have been stalking me, haven't you? Billy? Billy? Billy?

Caller disconnects.


INT. WILMA'S APARTMENT - DAY

Wilma eats breakfast while packing for an upcoming flight. She hears a familiar voice while watching the television.

JOHNNY ONSPOT

We have learned Billy Victor, the newsman assigned to cover the events of our U.S. Congress, has not been seen in public since leaving The Washington News.

Shocked, Wilma spills hot tea on her toast.

She cleans the tea from the table, and tosses the toast in the trash.

JOHNNY ONSPOT (CONT’D)

Because Victor has been critical of the missing Wilma Riser and is a friend of the deceased Senator Tommy Tracker, the speculation is these events are darkly connected.

Wilma picks up her newly acquired dog, Zeus. Wilma kisses Zeus.

She places a call to her travel agent, NORA BROWN.

NORA (V.O.)

Quick Travel. How may I help you?

WILMA

Hi. This is Wilma Riser. Please cancel my trip to Indianapolis today. My plans changed.


NORA (VO)

OK. Ms Riser. All taken care of.

WILMA

Thank you.

She places a call to a friend named EDDIE.

WILMA (CONT’D)

Hi, Eddie. Can you fix me to travel throughout the world incognito for two years? No questions asked?

EDDIE

Sure. I have enough of your personal information that I can take care of it yet today.

WILMA

Than you. You are my hero.


INT. RONALD REAGAN WASHINGTON NATIONAL AIRPORT - DAY

Two people, Wilma and EDDIE stand at the coffee shop entrance.

EDDIE

Here are all the documents you need to travel the world without being apprehended. You are travelling as Myra James. Your flight leaves in four hours. Then you can relax.

WILMA

What about Wilma Riser?

EDDIE

Your friends in high places are leaking the word right now that you have committed suicide and are deep in the Gulf of Mexico.

WILMA

Thank you so much.

Se plants a smacker on the man’s cheek


INT. AIRCRAFT - DAY

Wilma takes her first-class seat next to a man.


A U.S. ARMY STAFF SERGEANT spots the man seated next to Wilma.

SERGEANT

Good Morning, Major Downey.

The man seated next to Wilma, wearing civilian clothing, nods.


EXT. SUBURBAN INDIANAPOLIS AIRPORT - DAY

Deputy Sheriff CHARLEY SMALL approaches Wilmer washing his plane.

CHARLEY

Gotta ask some questions about Wilma. Everyone is looking for her. Where is she?

WILMER

(Sarcastically)

Somewhere in the Gulf of Mexico.

CHARLEY

You best level with me Wilmer. Don't be the same wise guy you were in high school.

WILMER

OK. I'm different than I was during my troublemaking high school days.

CHARLEY

Ha. Rumor is you are a hired killer and run drugs from South America.

Yeah boy. That's different.

WILMER

Not so. I'm a business consultant specializing in computer fraud. I travel all over the country.

CHARLEY

Don’t give me that bullshit?

WILMER

I'm an expert in solving complex communication systems hacking.

Check it out.

CHARLEY

Anyway, tell me all you know about Wilma.


Wilmer shows his unique sideways grin.

WILMER

She was gone without a trail after she told us all to stick it.

CHARLEY

That's not what I want to hear.

WILMER

I don't give a good goddamn what you want.

Looking more like an over-the-hill rent-a-cop than a carefully chosen deputy, Charley scribbles on a tobacco stained notepad.

WILMER (CONT’D)

Could be that perverted politician had her killed and dumped in the Gulf of Mexico before shooting himself. That's what I hear over the backyard fence.

CHARLEY

(mocks Wilmer's grin) Bullshit, you are her only known living blood relative. You know more than anyone else.

Wilmer shrugs his shoulders and resumes washing his plane.

CHARLEY (CONT’D)

OK, have it your way while you can.

WILMER

While I can? What's that supposed to mean?

CHARLEY

The FBI is in town. The boys asked us what we know. They will be around to see you. Guaranteed.

Frustrated, Charley throws up both arms, drops his notepad, picks it up, spits a pressurized stream of tobacco juice between his teeth, and leaves in anger.

Wilmer watches Charley, cups his hands around his mouth, and lets loose with a loud guffaw.

WILMER

See you in church, Hoss.


Wilmer raises a can of German beer while laughing to further frustrate Charley.

He resumes polishing the left engine nacelle of his immaculate Cessna Citation.


INT. CONRAD BORA BORA NUI - DAY

Super: “Bora Bora, 98730 French Polynesia” WILMA’S ROOM

Telephone rings. Wilma holding Zeus.

WILMA

Hello. This is Wilma.

BILLY

I know who you are.

WILMA

Who are you?

BILLY

I’m your old high school buddy. You know. The one you shit canned.

WILMA

Billy Victor? Where are you. How did you know I’m here?

BILLY

I always know where you are. I’ll always be just a few steps behind you. Don’t look over your shoulder because you won’t see me. My disguises are foolproof.

WILMA

Why do you stalk me after all these years?

BILLY

I’m wearing you down psychologically. Wanna know why?

WILMA

Yes, why?

BILLY

I lost my job because of you. It’s your fault. Give me enough time and you will put a bullet in your head.


WILMA

I’m calling the police.

BILLY

In a pigs eye. They are looking for you all over the world. They don’t believe that Gulf of Mexico story. They don’t believe it a tall.

WILMA

I don’t believe a word of what you say. You ae probably calling from some dingy bar in Washington.

BILLY

Ha. Look out from you window. See anybody you know? Look for a man next to the ice cream vendor.

Wilma looks and sees a man of Billy’s size wearing dark glasses waving.

BILLY (CONT’D)

You better spend as much of the little time you have left enjoying that little dog and your paratrooper husband.


INT. MUSEUM - DAY SUPER: "NAPLES, ITALY” ARTWORK DISPLAYS

Wilma and Wally stroll each of the floors holding hands. They point and comment about various pieces of art.

A well dressed man wearing sunglasses appears to view the artwork while watching Wilma and Wally.

Wilma and Wally leave. The unnoticed man follows them. RESTAURANT

The hostess seats Wilma and Wally at a table.

Wilma recognizes the man. It's Billy Victor. Her jaw drops.

WILMA

Oh, my gosh. It's Billy Victor.


WALLY

The stalker?

WILMA

Yes.

WALLY

Four thousand miles from home?

WILMA

Yes. I saw him in Paris too I didn't recognize him then. And just this morning he called me on my room phone. He waved as I watched from the picture window. It’s him.

WALLY

(Jokingly)

He must really like you. Should I worry about him stealing you away from me?

WILMA

No. I used to think he is harmless but now I wonder. Back home, he was just a nuisance. But, now I wonder if I should worry. He was very threatening.

WALLY

Do you want me to talk to him?

WILMA

No, I don't want to risk the government learning about me.

WALLY

Good point.

WILMA

I want the government to think I am dead so I won't be nabbed at some boarding gate and taken to the pokey.

FADE TO BLACK.


SUPER: "TWO YEARS LATER."

FADE IN:


INT. JORGE CHÁVEZ INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LIMA, PERU - DAY

Wilma and Wally embrace near the ticket counter.

WILMA

Thank you for the wonderful time, Wally. I loved visiting all those places around the world. Memories of those cruises will always stay with me too.

WALLY

You are welcome. It has been wonderful for me too. Remember, I'm always on your side. You were always too good of a person for living the life of a politician.

They kiss.

Wilma walks toward her gate.

A flight attendant escorts Billy Victor, disguised as a shaggy dressed blind traveler, to his seat at the rear of the plane.

Wilma and Wally wave goodbye just before losing sight of each other.

Wilma's plane lifts off the runway.


EXT. PHOENIX SKY HARBOR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT - DAY

Wilma's plane sets down on the runway and taxis to the arrival gate.

Wilma sees Wilmer.

They greet each other, load her luggage in a car and drive away.

Unnoticed, Billy Victor records identifying information of the car Wilma and Wilmer drive.

PARKING LOT

Billy hot wires the ignition of an older model red pickup truck. He drives around looking for the Risers, finds them and follows.


INT. ALONG A HIGHWAY - DAY

PAPPY, a Phoenix radio personality captures the attention of Wilma and Wilmer.

PAPPY (V.O.)

We have just received word that the search for former U.S. Senator Wilma Riser has ended.

Wilmer ups the volume.

PAPPY (V.O.)

With no new leads and with only unfounded rumors, authorities said today her remains are believed to be in the Gulf of Mexico.

In silence, Wilma and Wilmer glance at each other. Thumbs up by each.

They pull off the road to grab a sandwich.

Unobserved by Wilma and Wally, Billy Victor parks the red truck across the street.


INT. EATUP FAST FOOD JOINT - DAY

Wilma and Wilmer sit at a table with coffee, burgers, and fries.

Facing a mirror, Wilmer sees a PROWLER around Wilma's car.

WILMER

Excuse me. I'll be right back.

From her seat, Wilma watches Wilmer in the PARKING LOT

Wilmer sees the man crawling under Wilma's car.

As Wilmer closes in and looks under the car, PROWLER releases pepper spray from an aerosol can.

PROWLER

That'll teach you, dipshit.

Prowler runs.

Wilmer recovers his eyesight and returns to Wilma in the


DINING ROOM

WILMA

What's that all about?

WILMER

Some man prowling around your car. Don't know who. Got away. I pulled his eye patch and saw he has no right eye.

WILMA

Huh? That's Billy Victor. Remember? He was hit hard by a baseball in the eighth grade and lost his eye.

WILMA (CONT’D)

He is still after me. Only God knows my hatred for him. He stalked Wally and I two years. Didn’t say anything. Didn’t do anything. Just stalked.

WILMER

Still after you? After all these years? Why?

WILMA

I don't know. He has stalked me since I left the senate.

WILMER

(jokingly)

He still loves you. Wants to marry you.

WILMA

No. He just wants to harass me. Drive me insane. He made up stories about me and circulated them to my collogues. All lies.

Wilma looks at Wilmer.

WILMA (CONT’D)

He didn't just go to Washington like everybody else. His grudge took him there. As an adult, he never had good feelings toward me. Only a deep-seated hate.


INT. ALONG THE HIGHWAY - DAY

WILMER

Your new home is 15 miles from Clyde. Quite a project too. Glad you asked me to develop it.

WILMA

While I was travelling the world, you were working for me. You are a swell brother.

WILMER

You’ll love it. All upscale too. It’s 8,000 square foot underground structure with luxury you won't believe. In the middle of three square miles too.

Wilmer hesitates. His facial expression concerns Wilma.

WILMA

Something wrong?

WILMER

Maybe. You won't like what I say next.

WILMA

You better tell me. I don't want surprises.

Wilmer glances at Zeus.

WILMER

OK. Better let me take your dog. Someone might recognize him as Wilma Riser's.

WILMA

Never. Only in death will we part.

WILMER

OK. Whatever. By the way, use the name GERTIE ANDERSON from this day forward.

WILMA

Gertie? Why? I like Myra James better.

WILMER

No, use Gertie. A name you haven't used is safer.


EXT. WILMA'S PROPERTY - DAY

They drive through the one-mile lighted tunnel with a hidden entrance and into Wilma's bunker garage.

A graveled road leading to Wilma's dwelling runs above ground and parallel to the tunnel.

The sight of a rusted-out fifty-year-old flatbed truck alongside an ugly double-wide appalls Wilma.

WILMA

Is this what I thanked you for? You said I would be living in an upscale home.

WILMER

Relax, relax dear sister. What you see is a deception. We want people to think you are dirt poor.

Remember? Inside you will see luxury like you have never seen.


EXT. OUTSIDE THE DOUBLE-WIDE - DAY

WILMER

Just what you want. You can live incognito until the cows come home. Like?

Wilma views as much of the three-square miles as the eyes allow.

WILMA

Sure do. Let's go inside. I want to see for myself if it is as upscale as you say.


INT. DOUBLE WIDE INTERIOR - DAY

They enter. Using a handheld remote control, Wilmer exposes a hidden elevator.

They descend one level.

WILMER

Use the elevator if you need to get upstairs quickly. Like answering the door. Otherwise, use the garage for coming and going.

They exit the elevator in the


LIVING QUARTERS

where Wilmer leads Wilma through the well-furnished house except for one room. Then, that room. The

COMMAND CENTER

WILMER (CONT’D)

This is the command center. Equipped with state-of-the-art electronics. You can view every square inch of your 1,940 acres with the wall-mounted monitors.

WILMA

I'm impressed.

WILMER

I'll give you the grand tour later. Property bills are not your responsibility. Call me if you need maintenance.

WILMA

You really did well.

WILMER

Remember, play the part of the eccentric woman who can't find her butt with both hands.

Laughter from Wilma.

WILMA

That's not me, but whatever you say.

WILMER

With your fertile mind, nobody will connect you with anything nefarious. Not even the FBI.

WILMA

You are a swell brother. Tomorrow we will get down to business. I have some ideas. Gotta keep my promise, you know.

WILMER

Promise? What promise?

WILMA

My promise to the people. To make a difference.



Let's.

WILMER


EXT. DOUBLE WIDE PORCH - DAY

Wilma with iced tea, Zeus with water, and Wilmer with a mixed drink.



Shoot sis.

WILMER

Wilma gives Wilmer an overview of her vicious plan.

WILMA

Here is what I want to do.


She looks at Wilmer. His smile says it all.

WILMER

Suits me. It's getting dark I'm going home now.

WILMA

FADE TO BLACK.

FADE IN:

Want me to drive you to your plane?

WILMER

No. I'll hitchhike.

Wilmer puts a latex glove on each hand.

WILMA

Why the gloves?

WILMER

I wear them when I don't know who I'll see. Leave no prints. Good protection, you know.

WILMA

I suppose so.


EXT. ON THE ROAD - NIGHT

Wilmer, standing on the road, sees a stopped pickup truck. He makes out a raised hood against the moonlit background. The driver closes the hood.


He gets in the truck and speeds toward Wilmer.

The red pickup screeches to a halt slightly beyond Wilmer and backs up.

TRUCK DRIVER

Where to?

WILMER

Clyde airport. Drop me off anywhere in town if that works for you.

Wilmer sees what looks like a patch covering the driver's right eye.

TRUCK DRIVER

Sure thing. I'm headed to Clyde. I'll take you to the airport. Toss your stuff in the back.


INT. RED PICKUP TRUCK - NIGHT

Wilmer holds the Glock in his jacket's right pocket.

TRUCK DRIVER

What's with the gloves?

Wilmer gives the driver a what's-it-to-you look.

WILMER

I pick my nose and scratch my privates a lot. Don't want to get my fingers messy.

Driver squints his eye and gives Wilmer a sorry-I-asked look.

WILMER (CONT’D)

I'm surprised you picked me up. I could be a hitman.

TRUCK DRIVER

Naw. No hit man. Just like that old joke. It's unlikely two hitmen would be in the same truck.

The driver laughs with gusto. Wilmer looks worried.

The mileage sign shows Clyde 14 miles.

TRUCK DRIVER (CONT’D)

On second thought, maybe I am.


The driver pulls a handgun from inside his jacket. Points it squarely at Wilmer's face.

Wilmer disarms the driver with a karate-like chop. The driver brakes the truck to a stop.

Wilmer slams three quick dynamite punches in the driver's face.

WILMER

I'm going to be here with questions 'til you breath your last. Who are you?

Driver gasps with labored breathing.

WILMER (CONT’D)

Talk asswipe. Who are you?

TRUCK DRIVER

I forget.

Driver's labored breathing worsens.

WILMER

Why are you here?

TRUCK DRIVER

To off your sister.

WILMER

Why? What's your name?

TRUCK DRIVER

I forget.

Wilmer coldcocks driver. The driver passes out.

Wilmer waits a minute or two. Driver regains consciousness.

WILMER

We're going through this until you talk or die. On a scale of one to ten, how do you feel?

TRUCK DRIVER

Go to hell. I don't have to talk. All I have to do is breath and die.


WILMER

Have it your way. One last question before you meet the grim reaper.

How did you find me?

TRUCK DRIVER

You are one dumb careless son of a bitch. You'll never know.

WILMER

OK. That's it.


EXT. ROADSIDE - NIGHT

Wilmer yanks the eye patch off the drivers head, sees a empty eye socket.

WILMER

Well, hello Mr. Victor. Are you here to propose to Wilma?

Wilmer doesn't wait for a reply.

He drags Victor from the truck, repeatedly stomps the heel of his heavy cowboy boot on Victor's head.

Using Victor's gun, Wilmer puts two bullets in Victor's head, one in the right eye socket.

He wraps Victor in a canvas tarpaulin from the truck bed. He tosses the body in the bed of the truck.

He talks to the corpse.

WILMER (CONT’D)

Who is the careless dumb son of a bitch now?

A train's diesel horn sounds not far away.

WILMER (CONT’D)

Let's head to the train, pal.


EXT. THE TRACKS - NIGHT

Wilmer drives the truck across the railroad tracks and stops near the tracks.

He drags Victor's body to shrubbery next to the tracks and out of the train crew's view.


WILMER

OK, friend. They will have to use dental records to identify your sorry ass.

Just as the train reaches the highway intersection, Wilmer tosses Victor in front of the engine.

Wilmer salutes toward the train engine.

WILMER (CONT’D)

Thank you, guys.


INT. THE DIESEL ENGINE - NIGHT

ENGINEER

Jesus Christ and Babe Ruth. What's that?

The engineer quickly brakes to a jolting stop and locks the brakes.

The engineer and crew members bolt from the train. Wilmer sprints to the red truck.

EXT. RAILROAD TRACK BED - NIGHT

The crew sprints back to the point of impact. They see only blood and shattered bones.

ENGINEER

Somebody didn’t like him or her. There is nothing we can do. I’ll report this to our dispatcher.


INT. RED PICKUP TRUCK - NIGHT

Wilmer drives to Clyde.

About five miles before reaching Clyde, oncoming police cars, sporting flashing red and blue lights and with sirens blaring, pass Wilmer.


EXT. MOTEL PARKING LOT - NIGHT

Wilmer ditches the latex gloves and puts on another pair. He takes his luggage along with the truck license plate.


He walks about fifty feet to a pay phone and calls for a taxi.


INT. TAXI - NIGHT

Wilmer opens the back door, hops in and greets the CABBIE.

WILMER

Take me to the airport please.

CABBIE

Sure will, friend.


EXT. CLYDE AIRPORT RAMP - NIGHT

When performing a thorough preflight, a surprised Wilmer finds an exterior-mounted tracking device under the plane's baggage compartment.

He disables the device and tosses it into the plane. He pulls on fresh gloves.

INT. TAXI - NIGHT

Wilmer sees the same driver who drove him to the airport. He slides into the back seat.

CABBIE

Where to friend?

WILMER

The Happy Night Motel.

CABBIE

You got it. Hey, didn't I just bring you to the airport?

WILMER

Yeah, forgot something.

CABBIE

Know why I remembered you?

WILMER

Why?

CABBIE

Small tip.



Oh.

WILMER


EXT. MOTEL PARKING LOT - NIGHT

Wilmer pays the driver without a tip.

CABBIE

Hey, what did I just teach you?

WILMER

To tip big. You taught but I didn't learn.

Cabbie stares at Wilmer, mutters something unintelligible.

WILMER (CONT’D)

Here's your tip.

Wilmer gives the cabbie a middle finger salute. Wilmer opens the familiar red pickup truck door. He throws his luggage in the truck bed.

He reinstalls the license plate. He hops in and drives off.

EXT. WILMA'S PATIO - NIGHT

Wilmer knocks loud on the door. Zeus barks.

Coyotes howl.

A sleepy Wilma views the front door via a camera. She opens the door.

WILMA

What in God's name --

WILMER

-- Forget God. Get a flashlight and your car keys. Follow me.


INT. BUNKER GARAGE - NIGHT

Wilmer finds a tracker mounted under the car.


WILMER

Now I know how he did it.

Wilmer disables the device.

WILMA

Did what?

WILMER

Found me.

WILMA

You got me up from a sound sleep with this cock-and-bull story. You owe me an explanation. Big time.

WILMER

I found a tracking device on my plane. That guy at the EatUp fast food joint must have put this tracking device on your car.

WILMA

Is there more you want to tell me?

WILMER

Yeah. My guess is I was tracked from home to the Clyde airport and then we were tracked to your place.

WILMA

How did someone get to your plane and put the tracker on it?

WILMER

Don't know. Someone probably walked to the plane on the ramp and did the job. No security during the day.

WILMA

You got me out of a sound sleep. There is more to this. You owe me an explanation.

WILMER

The driver was Billy Victor, He intended to kill both of us. I killed him. Threw him in front of a fast moving freight train.

WILMA

This is good news. Calls for a celebration.


WILMER

Some other time. I'm tired.

WILMA

Me too. What about my plane? Is it trackable?

WILMER

You're good. Nobody knows about your plane. It's still in Orlando for your requested customization. Here, take my Glock. You might need it.

WILMA

What will you do without it? You might need it too.

WILMER

I'll be fine.


EXT. ROADWAY - NIGHT

A five-mile marker points to the Clyde airport.

Wilmer thoroughly wipes all traces of his being at the truck.

He gathers his belongings and the truck license plate, abandons the truck and walks to the airport.


EXT. CLYDE AIRPORT RAMP - NIGHT

Wilmer climbs into the cockpit, taxies to the runway, speeds down the runway and departs.


EXT. ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT RAMP - DAY

Wilma accepts delivery of her customized twin-engine Citation from the Cessna dealer, JULES GRAY.

GRAY

Here are the ownership papers and the keys. You got the best of the best. Happy flying.

Wilmer arrives and parks his identical Cessna next to Wilma's.

She proudly shows Zeus' custom-made bathroom inside her plane.


Wilmer rolls his eyes when viewing the doggie door, artificial green grass and yellow fire hydrant.

WILMA

Like it?

WILMER

Yeah boy.

Wilmer turns his head to conceal his facial expression.


INT. HOTEL DINING ROOM - EVENING

They discuss Wilmer's safety concerns and details of Wilma's plans over a tasty meal of loin of lamb and all the trimmings.

WILMA

OK. Tell me the rest of the story about Billy.

WILMER

He faked a broken-down truck. My guess is he waited for me to leave your place. Maybe he would have gone back for you after he offed me.

WILMA

He could have driven to my quarters and taken us both. Why didn't he?

WILMER

Probably feared what he would encounter so far from the highway.

WILMA

How did he know where I live? That bothers me.

WILMER

He didn't at first. I now know it was him I saw prowling around your car at the burger joint.

WILMA

Sure?

WILMER

Yes. He put a tracking device on your car and followed us to your home.


WILMA

Ok. Here is what I came to talk about


Wilma presents the details of her plan.


WILMA (CONT’D)

Are you game?

WILMER


FADE TO BLACK.


FADE IN:

If you are sure you want this, I'll help. I can arrange for everything to be in place in three months.

WILMA

Are you sure? How will you do that?

WILMER

Money and threats. A million dollars cash to each participant and death to all participants and their families if word leaks from any source.


EXT. ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT RAMP - DAY

WILMER

This has been a good trip.

Wilmer hands Wilma a cell phone.

WILMER (CONT’D)

We will only use burner phones. Repeat what I just said.

WILMA

We will only use burner phones.

WILMER

Don't get careless with it. The law can trace burners to the purchaser. Stay with it joined at your hip.

WILMA

I'll be careful.

WILMER

Good. I'm heading home.



Me too.

WILMA


INT. AERIAL VIEW - CAPITOL - DAY SUPER: "WASHINGTON D.C."

News helicopters circle the damage. SERIES OF SHOTS - DAMAGE

-- Smoldering Capitol building completely demolished

-- Uncounted number of overturned vehicles

-- Hundreds of bodies lying in the street

-- Towering dust

-- First responders in action


INT. WWPH TELEVISION NEWS STUDIO - DAY

Newsman Jay Anders reports from the anchor desk.

JAY ANDERS

At 11 am, the District of Columbia was shaken. Our nation's Capitol building was completely destroyed with all members of the House and Senate present for a historic vote.

An employee hands Anders a document.

JAY ANDERS (CONT’D)

Authorities are investigating nonstop, assuming foreign terrorists are responsible.

Another employee hands Anders a document.

JAY ANDERS (CONT’D)

And, we now have learned media outlets in Atlanta and New York have also been destroyed. Stay tuned for more developments.


INT. WHITE HOUSE - DAY OVAL OFFICE


United States President Joel Nogo sits as his desk, without his usual smile for the cameras, and addresses the people of the United States.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

As we recover from the heinous destruction of the Capitol and three media outlets, we believe the terrorists have more destruction planned.

The President glances at his prepared speech, removes his glasses.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO (CONT’D)

Today, I ordered our military leaders to place all military members based in the United States on ready alert.

An image of four United States fighter aircraft is displayed on the wall behind President Nogo.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO (CONT’D)

Private, commercial, and military aircraft pilots have been instructed to report suspicious aircraft.

President Nogo pauses for a drink of water.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO (CONT’D)

If those aircraft are deemed to be a national security threat they will be forced down. Equipment will be examined and pilots will be interrogated.

President Nogo looks upward.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO (CONT’D)

Thank you and God bless America.


INT. BISCUITS AND GRAVY RESTAURANT - DAY

Wilmer sits on a stool at the counter waiting for his breakfast order.

On a large television mounted on the wall, Wilmer watches as the morning news is interrupted by breaking news reporter BARBARA LUTZ.


LUTZ

This just in. The mayhem continues. Officials have confirmed post office buildings in eight cities have been destroyed without advanced warnings.

Video images show crushed cars, fallen debris, sky-high dust, disabled people, bodies of the deceased, and damaged postal delivery trucks.

LUTZ (CONT’D)

These images show demolished post offices at Nashville, Wilmington, Phoenix, Denver, Miami, South Bend, Seattle, and Baton Rouge.

Lutz pauses, drinks from a convenience store cup and wipes her brow.

LUTZ (CONT’D)

We expect to have more information during the noon news.


INT. WILMER'S VAN - DAY

At his desk inside a plush small van, Wilmer listens to Los Angeles radio personality, JANIE.

JANIE (V.O.)

We have another disturbing situation brewing. A man named CHESTER NOJESTER has hacked into every television set in the country. He is talking now.

Broadcasting from his windowless van, Wilmer speaks using an electronic voice-altering device.

WILMER

Hello friends. CHESTER NOJESTER here with you. The United States will be fixed. Our citizen-driven militia consists of one-half million red-blooded Americans.

Wilmer plays patriotic background music.

WILMER (CONT’D)

This leaderless word-of mouth approach will get the job done.

(MORE)

WILMER (CONT’D)

Some of you might call this an attempt to overthrow the government. I call it progress.

Wilmer sips from a water glass.

WILMER (CONT’D)

Polls tell us that 85% of you want control of what was once a land of the free and home of the brave with a government of, by, and for the people.

Wilmer plays a second clip of patriotic music.

WILMER (CONT’D)

There is enough government bullshit to go around for all of us. Keep up the good work troops. We will take this country back from the politicians.

With a hoarse voice brought on by Wilmer's militaristic evangelical zeal, he ends his plea.

WILMER (CONT’D)

That's all for now. I'm Chester NoJester saying let's make ourselves proud. I invite you to join me on the next Chester NoJester hack fest.

Wilmer's pep talk stirs up the people in ways he could not have imagined.

By dusk the next day, lawns across the country are planted with anti-government signs.

As a revolt mushrooms across the fruited plain, every man, woman, and child senses a civil war brewing.


INT. WILMA'S BUNKER - DAY

Wilma puts on baggy pants and other hick clothing to appear as an eccentric and uneducated frump.

To further the façade, she rubs some of Zeus' poop on her vest, baseball hat, and worn-out cowboy boots.

She kisses Zeus.

They leave through the underground garage and get in Patton for a trip to Clyde.


INT. CLYDE WALMART - DAY

Wilma enters the store with Zeus.

She fills the shopping cart with various food items, including two one-gallon containers of vanilla ice cream for her and Zeus.

They exit the store.


EXT. MAIN STREET - MOMENTS LATER

A troublemaking TEEN approaches.

TEEN

Hey, is that pip-squeak of a dog battery operated?

Wilma swings her cane toward the kid.

WILMA

Listen, you piece of trash. Your parents would be better off with a dog than with you.

TEEN

Why do you say that, Stinky?

WILMA

You are a troublemaker. You must be a disgrace to your parents. When dogs get to your age, they are nice and still lick their owner's face.

TEEN

Like this?

The kid comes toward Wilma wagging his tongue.

WILMA

You best scram or my little pooch will rip out all four of your cheeks.

TEEN

Four? Where did you go to school?

Wilma wields her cane in a no-nonsense manner. The kid scrams.


EXT. MAIN STREET - CONTINUOUS

Further along, DAISY and MAE, sitting on a bench, stare disapprovingly at Wilma passing by.

DAISY

Hey. Old woman. Take a bath and clean those smelly clothes. Comb your hair.

MAE

Yeah. And toss those baggy pants too. Jesus.

They laugh.

Wilma gives both the finger and continues walking to Patton. She loads her groceries in Patton.

She continues walking and enters a restaurant with Zeus.


INT. THE PRIDE OF CLYDE - MOMENTS LATER

Patrons sniff, see Wilma and move to other tables.

Just when she finishes her meal, Wilma glances at the television. She becomes visibly shaken.

WILMA

Holy Hell. Can't be.

Wilma pays the bill.

She and Zeus race out of the restaurant.

Patrons look, roll their eyes, shrug shoulders, and laugh.


INT. INSIDE PATTON - CONTINUOUS

WILMA

Gotta talk to Wilmer.

Still shaken, Wilma drops the burner. Picks it up, redials, and connects.

Wilmer answers. He senses something is wrong.

WILMER (V.O.)

Sup?


WILMA

I'll tell you what's up. An FBI agent is being interviewed on television right now.

WILMER (V.O.)

And?

WILMA

He says they have reopened the case and I am the suspected terrorist.

WILMER (V.O.)

How does the FBI know?

WILMA

It says new evidence strongly suggests I'm the mastermind. That's all I know.

WILMER

Betcha Billy Victor mouthed off just before he bit the dust.

WILMA

Whatever, I want you to use your hacking skills and put me on television.

WILMER (V.O.)

How and why?

WILMA

Hook me up to every television set in the country tomorrow at noon sharp, Eastern Standard Time.

Wilma dries her eyes as she starts to explain.

WILMA (CONT’D)

They have the goods on me. Might as well be red-handed goods. I'm going to confess.

WILMER (V.O.)

Not so fast. Don't do that. Wait until they come. Confess then. They might not come at all.

WILMA

I'm at my wits end. I have to get it off my chest. Even Zeus knows something is wrong.


Seconds pass with neither talking.

WILMA (CONT’D)

I'm so exhausted with worry. I feel it's time to confess. I'm just a passenger on this planet, not a participant.

WILMER (V.O.)

Huh? Nonsense. Look what you have done. From sea to shining sea. The people are uniting. Give our plan a chance.

Wilma wipes her teary cheeks.

WILMER (V.O.)

We have hundreds of workers. We will get more. We will have our leaders following, not leading.

WILMA

Whatever. I'm just hanging around waiting to die.

WILMER (V.O.)

Ok. I'll do it but this could land you in the pokey with only a very short rest of your life if you know what I mean.

WILMA

I do and it won't. I promise.

WILMER (V.O.)

And by the way, keep my name out of it. If I have to carry the torch, I don't want trouble.

WILMA

Goodbye.

WILMER (V.O.)

What do you mean, goodbye? I'll visit you in the pokey like you visited me back in...

Wilmer hears only a dial tone.


INT. WILMA'S LIVING ROOM - DAY

Wilma's face pops up throughout the entire country during the noon news.


She sits holding Zeus.

A photo of Wally Downey is next to Wilma.

Viewers see an expensive plaque on the wall behind Wilma with the inscription "Today's Friends are Tomorrow's Enemies."

Appearing as Gertie, Wilma addresses the nation via Wilmer's hack job.

WILMA

I am the person responsible for the destruction of your country. I have a statement of explanation in my handwriting that I will leave on this desk.

Wilma feeds ice cream to Zeus and kisses him.

Wilma pauses, chokes with tears gushing from her eyes.

Viewers see Wilma's hand reach over to a table but cannot see the object now in her hand.

The screens of all viewers go dark.


Gunshot.

FADE TO BLACK.


FADE IN:


INT. CLYDE FRIENDS CHURCH - DAY

A closed casket is in place.

A jittery MINISTER does not speak well of Gertie and finishes his delivery.

MINISTER

Still, she was a human being. It is not our place to judge. She is with the Lord now. He will administer justice. Now, let us pray.

A large number of people leave as the minister begins the prayer.

One ANGRY MAN's feelings speak for all. He whispers to the man seated beside him.


ANGRY MAN

I could have been making money working the farm today, but I came to this damn thing to see for myself that the bitch is dead.

Angry man's SEATMATE nods.

SEATMATE

You still don't know. She must have made a mess with her head. They covered it for some reason.


INT. NEW YORK FBI OFFICE - DAY

Wilma's former work colleague, Donna Jeanne Marion, enters and asks to speak to an agent.

The receptionist pages an agent.

A snappy dresser enters. Age around thirty-five, clean shaven, about 6 feet tall, and 200 pounds.

The agent leads Ms. Marion to his OFFICE

Agent closes the door and identifies himself as DREXEL ROCKWELL.

DONNA JEANNE

Thank you for seeing me. I’m Donna Jeanne Marion.

ROCKWELL

Ms. Marion. How may I help you?

DONNA JEANNE

There is more about Wilma Riser that you should know.

ROCKWELL

Do you mind if I record our conversation?

DONNA JEANNE

Please do.

Rockwell presses the record switch.

ROCKWELL

Let us start at the beginning, Ms. Marion.


DONNA JEANNE

Wilma Riser is alive. I worked with her in the Senate. We were good friends. I know she is alive.

ROCKWELL

Why do you think she is alive?

DONNA JEANNE

I saw this Gertie lady say goodbye to us on television. There is no proof she is dead. We didn't see her shoot herself. We only heard a shot. Gertie was Wilma Riser.

ROCKWELL

Do you have new information?

DONNA JEANNE

Yes. She had Zeus, her beloved dog, in her lap. She would never go anywhere without him, especially leaving him alone in this world.

ROCKWELL

Interesting.

DONNA JEANNE

I have this photo of her, a photo I took when giving her Zeus just before she resigned her senate position.

She shows Rockwell the photo.

DONNA JEANNE (CONT’D)

You may keep it. It shows the real Wilma, not a doctored official image from her senatorial days.

Rockwell takes the photo.

DONNA JEANNE (CONT’D)

Notice the writing on the back. It's identical to the framed inscription on the wall that the world saw during her so-called farewell address.

Rockwell turns the photo over and reads the writing.

ROCKWELL

Today's Friends are Tomorrow's Enemies.


DONNA JEANNE

That is her handwriting. That should convince everyone the shaggy woman we saw on television was a disguised Wilma Riser.

ROCKWELL

This is an unexpected development.

Rockwell takes Ms. Marion's contact info and writes detailed notes.

ROCKWELL (CONT’D)

I'll get a press release out with the photo after we verify the authenticity of the signatures.

They shake hands and she leaves.

A rejuvenated Rockwell gets on the phone.


INT. CLYDE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE - DAY

Well-respected resident and attorney BEAUMONT PICKENS walks to the reception desk.

He asks to speak to Deputy MAX MAXWELL. They proceed to

MAXWELL's OFFICE

PICKENS

I know the terrorist. You do too.

MAXWELL

Huh? The whole town knows it was Gertie. She’s dead now anyway.

PICKENS

Naw. She just smelled that way. She duped us into believing she was a mentally disturbed eccentric.

Pickens shows an article from the morning newspaper.

PICKENS (CONT’D)

The FBI slapped this photo in newspapers around the country. Looks like our shabby friend is Wilma Riser, the former United States senator, alive and well.


Maxwell studies the picture.

MAXWELL

Naw.

PICKENS

Naw, hell. Look at the dog she holds. Don't you recognize the fat ugly mutt? She one-upped all of us.

MAXWELL

I don't believe it. I was at her funeral.

Pickens lowers his head and raises his eyebrows.

PICKENS

Sure?

Maxwell studies the picture.

MAXWELL

If this s true, how did this whole town miss the dog in the picture?

PICKENS

Yeah. And why did the whole town assume an unseen gunshot means death?

MAXWELL

I wonder.

PICKENS

I don't. We were happy to think of her dead. We didn't want to investigate. It’s the let sleeping dogs lie thing.

MAXWELL

Then, who did we bury?

PICKENS

Good question. A mighty good question. Looks like you guys have some work to do.

MAXWELL

I wish I called in sick this morning. Sheriff won't like this. No sir. Not one damn bit. Anyway, I'll put the monkey on the big guy's back.


Both men rise from their chairs. Pickens leaves.

The now hyperactive Maxwell stumbles on his way to the big guy's office.


INT. UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE - DAY

Twenty-five members of the United States Department of Justice plus two high ranking military officers, General HENRY MARCHEM and Admiral JOHNNY SWABIE, enter a large conference room.

JOY SITKA, an elderly lady and an assistant to the Deputy Attorney General of the Justice Department, leads the meeting along with CHASE PLANT, her right hand man.

Plant is 45 years old, is a well-educated and a no-nonsense 15-year public servant.

Sitka presses the start button on a recording device.

SITKA

Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. Are there any objections to audio and video recordings of this and future meetings?

There are none.

SITKA (CONT’D)

Without objections, let us continue. We have been designated the Awareness Team. This is our first meeting of hopefully only a few.

Except for the general and the admiral, all attendees know one another.

SITKA (CONT’D)

First, I want to introduce two distinguished gentlemen. General Henry Marchem on your left and Admiral Johnny Swabie on your right.

Both stand, face the team with a wave and take their seats on either side of Joy Sitka.


SITKA (CONT’D)

We will have meetings in this room, designated the Awareness Room, to assist in the capture of

Wilmer Riser.

The distinguished group begins taking notes.

SITKA (CONT’D)

Our role is defined as submitting our findings up the chain of command. We will not recommend action.

Sitka pauses. She gazes the room to judge body language.

SITKA (CONT’D)

I ask you now to raise your right hand if you commit to participating in the best interest of the United States of America.

All in attendance affirm.

SITKA (CONT’D)

Our analysts in this room have assembled a wealth of information regarding Wilmer Riser and his sister, Wilma. Mr. Plant and I will summarize our findings.

Sitka nods to Plant.

PLANT

One, we know Wilma Riser orchestrated the destruction of the United States Capitol Building, three buildings housing media outlets and eight post offices.

SITKA

Two, we also know she intended to destroy more federal buildings located on U.S. soil.

PLANT

Three, we know she intended to bring the wheels of commerce to a stop by rendering all major roads across the nation ineffective.


SITKA

Fourth, We know that her brother, Wilmer, assisted her by doing the heavy lifting.

PLANT

Fifth, we know Wilma now lives in a country with which we do not an extradition treaty.

SITKA

Sixth, we know our State Department is pursuing bringing her here to face charges.

A WELL-GROOMED MAN with a cart of pastries and drinks enters.

WELL-GROOMED MAN

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. I'll be quick.

SITKA

Therefore, our focus is on Wilmer. We strongly believe he is in the United States. We are not concerned with their minions for now. That will come later.

Sitka pauses. She assesses the participant's expressions.

SITKA (CONT’D)

Once Wilmer is removed, his millions will be unavailable for funding further destruction.

Authorities can then deal with the minions.

Well groomed-man leaves the room.

SITKA (CONT’D)

Mr. Plant will now present an assessment of the state of the country.

PLANT

The Wall Street Journal reports our people are more demoralized than during the Great Depression.

Plant pauses for a drink of water. Others eat pastry.

PLANT (CONT’D)

Suicides are spiking. Home invasions are common.

(MORE)

PLANT (CONT’D)

Shoplifting is out of control. The wealthy are taking their money and leaving the country.

SITKA

The country is caving fast. Rumors abound. Today, we will bring you up to date with the latest information about Wilmer Riser.

Sitka stands.

SITKA (CONT’D)

Mr. Riser is dangerous. It is widely believed he makes a killing from killing. Word is as much as a quarter million dollars per hit.

Likely, two or three hits per week.

PLANT

Nobody knows his worth, but rest assured it is from illegal sources. He owns and operates a modern twin engine jet plane and a helicopter.

SITKA

He is physically snake-quick and just as slick. There is reliable evidence suggesting he has been a malcontent since childhood.

Anything else to add? Anyone?

There is no response from the team.

PLANT

He is a human junkyard dog. Bitter as hell about everything. He is the most irreligious man you will ever have the misfortune of meeting.

MARCHEM

He served six years in the Army. A top-notch sniper. Resorting to terroristic tactics is his modus operandi. He is a survivalist.

PLANT

The unofficial word is that he is organizing a group for overthrowing our government because he doesn't like the direction the country is going.


SITKA

Any comments?

SWABBIE

I'm convinced a civil war is brewing from the hostility growing by word-of-mouth. There will be no leaders, only unhinged malcontents. All this thanks to Wilmer Riser.

The team expresses unimaginable shock both verbally and visually.

The group creates loud indistinguishable discussions. Sitka bangs the table with a ruler.

SITKA

Please. Let's have order. You'll have plenty of time for yelling. Just not in this room.

Order is restored.

The people compose themselves by taking a drink of water, shaking their heads, wiping their foreheads, and performing breathing exercises.

SITKA (CONT’D)

Thank you. I understand your anger. That's all for today. Exercise extreme care. If Riser learns our identities, we could become his targets.

PLANT

Good idea. Be sure to promise your family every morning that you will be home for dinner.


EXT. DENVER, COLORADO STREET - DAY

RONNIE, a homeless man finds a newspaper.

RONNIE

Hey, look at this. Picture of that guy that blew the guts out of the country. They're looking high and low for him.

Wilmer, a disheveled an intentionally scroungy man responds.


WILMER

Never find him.

RONNIE

Why not?

WILMER

Too smart for them.


INT. THE WHITE HOUSE – DAY

Telephone rings. RUBY RUBIOUS answers.

RUBY

Office of the President. How may I direct your call?

Wilmer speaks word salad with a ridiculously laughable disguised voice throughout the conversation.

WILMER (V.O.)

To anyone with President Mogo's ear.

RUBY

Do you mean President Nogo?

WILMER

Yeah. Yeah. That’s it.

RUBY

Your name, please.

WILMER (V.O.)

Chester, Chester NoJester.

RUBY

Certainly, Mr. NoJester. One moment.

Ruby puts Wilmer on hold. Transfers call to SARA, the president's secretary.

SARA'S DESK

SARA

Hi. Ruby.


RUBY (V.O.)

Got some word salad speaking weirdo wanting President Nogo. Says his name is Chester NoJester.

Sara accepts the call.

SARA

Mr. NoJester, the president isn't available. I will be happy to take your information.

WILMER (V.O.)

Tell him I called with enough gigabytes of information about the country's destruction to fill a shoebox.

SARA

I'm sorry. Can you repeat that please?

WILMER (V.O.)

No. I was only given a fixed number of words at birth. I don't want to use my remaining words talking to you.

Sara is dumbfounded, her eyes get big, her jaw drops.

SARA

I beg your pardon.

WILMER (V.O.)

Tell him I'll call tomorrow at this time. If he refuses to talk to me, I'll continue the mayhem.

Wilmer disconnects.

Sara holds her forefinger and thumb at her head. She pulls an imaginary trigger.

She races pell-mell to Nogo.


INT. OVAL OFFICE - DAY

Wilmer, alias Chester NoJester, phones President Nogo.

Nogo puts a Captain Marvel comic book aside and parks his feet on his desk.


He presses the record button on his recorder.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

Yes, Mr. NoJester. I am honored to talk to you.

WILMER (V.O.)

I doubt that you are honored.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

Oh, but I am.

WILMER (V.O.)

Whatever. If you wanna keep living in government housing with all the perks, you gotta meet eight no- nonsense conditions.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

Oh my. What if I don't?

WILMER (V.O.)

I know where you live.

Wilmer sounds off his horselaugh.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

OK. Go on.

Wilmer makes demands as he reads from his list of talking points.

The President begins clipping his fingernails.

WILMER (V.O.)

Answer I understand after I give each one.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

Sure, sure. No sweat.

WILMER (V.O.)

First, return the government to one of, by and for the people living in the land of the free and home of the brave.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

I understand.

WILMER (V.O.)

Second, send all illegals back to where they came from.


PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

I understand.

WILMER (V.O.)

Third, don't let any more illegals in.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

I understand.

WILMER (V.O.)

Fourth, limit all members of Congress to one four-year term. Them guys start slacking way too soon as it is now.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

I understand.

WILMER (V.O.)

Fifth, cut the national deficit by ten percent each year you are in office.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

I understand.

WILMER (V.O.)

Six, pay the national debt down twenty per-cent each year until the country doesn’t owe any country a goddamn penny.

PRESDENT JOEL NOJO

I understand.

WILMER (V.O.)

Seven, bring all United States companies operating abroad back to the United States.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

I understand.

WILMER (V.O.)

Eight, establish a rape policy for all Congressional men and women.

Nogo tries to take a bite from his sandwich, misses his mouth.

WILMER (V.O.)

There you have it, Hoss. Do you understand all eight?


PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

That's an impossible order, friend.

WILMER (V.O.)

Why?

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

A rape policy? I don't think I should touch such a subject with the proverbial ten foot pole.

WILMER (V.O.)

Get them all out by age fifty-five. Rape all men and women over fifty- four.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

My gosh, man. I could go to jail.

WILMER (V.O.)

You don't get it. Rape is an acronym for Retire All Politicians Early.

PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO

Oh. Something like fart is an acronym for Foul Air from the Rectum Tunnel.

WILMER (V.O.)

Yes, you have 60 days to get the job done. Otherwise, I'll bring mayhem ad nauseam. You will be more confused than Hogan's two peckered goat.

Wilmer ends the call.

Nogo reaches for Captain Marvel. He falls asleep in his chair.

EXT. INTERSTATE HIGHWAY 25 - DAY

A small number of locals sit on folding lawn chairs watching the activity.

Earthmoving equipment line the entrance ramp. A refueling truck stands by.

Two men armed with shotguns alternate walking each direction.


Two bulldozers alternate scooping full buckets of soil from the median and dumping the soil, blocking the entrance.

Refueling truck moves into position next to a bulldozer and fills the bulldozer’s fuel tank.


INT. HIGH STREET - NIGHT

Doorbell rings.

Owner looks at a security monitor, doesn't open door. Male INTRUDER picks lock, opens the door, walks in.

INTRUDER

Goddamn. Someone is here!

Two accomplices enter. Intruder looks at the owner.

INTRUDER (CONT’D)

Anyone else here?

OWNER

Yes, my wife and children.

INTRUDER

Bring them here.

A frightened wife and three frightened children come downstairs. The youngest holds the mother's hand.

One man points his gun toward the five people.

Two minutes later, the other two return with the loot.

INTRUDER (CONT’D)

You have seen our faces. Bye, bye.

The intruders, using silencers, fire ten shots and run out the front door.


I/E. GROCERY STORE - DAY

Homeless men and women sit on the ground at the store entrance.

Unruly young people charge the store.

Two men, with handguns, stand at the entrance.


Man and woman bind, gag, handcuff the security guard and strap him standing facing the standup cola cooler.

Two looters empty all cash registers.

Two looters fill six fifty-gallon garbage bags with merchandise.

Looters escape in a pickup truck.


INT. AWARENESS ROOM - DAY

SITKA

As Mr. Riser spits in our faces, he has made demands to the President. Chaos, fear and anger permeates the country.

Plant turns on a projector.

PLANT

This is an image of overturned vehicles on a large city downtown street.

Plant pauses for reactions before projecting the next image. Only blank faces look at Plant.

PLANT (CONT’D)

The image shows earth moving equipment near the shoulder of each direction and two men with binoculars and shotguns.

Plant advances the next slide.

PLANT (CONT’D)

There are an estimated 500 lootings of retail stores daily throughout the country. There are numerous abandoned restaurants and gasoline stations.

Plant pauses while the team writes notes.

PLANT (CONT’D)

We have overturned ambulances, suicides, and a large number of domestic violence increases. And, home invasions, the most serious of all.


Howard raises his arm.

SITKA

Yes, Howard.

HOWARD

Everyone, many with no job to go to, are home worrying how they can feed the family, put shoes on the kids, and protect their properties.

PLANT

True. And there are a large number of home invasions because of the close proximity of houses.

JUDY raises her arm.

SITKA

Yes, Judy.

JUDY

Do those men at the interstate with shotguns really think they can fend off the police?

PLANT

It depends. Many law enforcement members are among the workers.

Upper levels of law enforcement understand the situation and often turn a sympathetic blind eye.

ADMIRAL SWABBIE

The same for the military. Further, with much of our communication infrastructure shot to hell, our commanders can only contact a handful throughout the country.

Plant projects a slide.

PLANT

Here is a man leaping to his death from a window at the top of a twenty-story building. He is only one of many.

Sitka nods her head.


PLANT (CONT’D)

I have an additional two-hundred similar gruesome images showing every abhorrent condition imaginable.

SITKA

Commerce has slowed from a crawl to a near-stop. We could be doomed.

Apathy and violence rule the country. Nothing, including superpowers, lives forever.

Sitka describes a never-to-be-expected fact of American life.

SITKA (CONT’D)

Elected incumbents are resigning. New candidates are nonexistent. Our state governors have dispatched citizens to Washington to run the government.

Faces in the room clearly show torment.

SITKA (CONT’D)

Word is they are in over their heads and are feuding. Our future is bleak. Complacency got us here. The people's let-George-do-it attitude has come home to roost.

The audience nods in unison.

ADMIRAL SWABBIE

We have stopped minding the store. We have given away the key to the mint.

PLANT

Wilmer Riser has done his homework well. He isn't acting alone. His volunteer army of like-minded people has wreaked havoc in every state, including Hawaii and Alaska.

SITKA

His leaderless ragtag army continues at breakneck speed with no sign of slowing. Our military is severely weakened. City and county law enforcement --

General Marchem, breaches protocol, defends his troops with a booming voice.


GENERAL MARCHEM

-- Hold on. Our troops are a microcosm of the entire population. They aren't the problem. The state of the nation is the problem.

Marchem slaps the table with his hand.

GENERAL MARCHEM (CONT’D)

Our leaders thumb their fannies at us. They expect us subjects, and I do mean subjects, to kiss their asses at every turn.

PLANT

Well said, General. Everybody in this room understands as do many of our citizens that our military is vastly outnumbered.

SITKA

Yes. The people understand very well. That's one reason Riser has inspired so many volunteers.

PLANT

Apprehending Riser will take the wind from their sails. If we don't bring results soon his army will win.

Sitka recognizes JIMMY.

JIMMY

How close are we to capturing Riser?

SITKA

We ae progressing. My contacts tell me the data we have analyzed has been valuable. Riser's days are numbered.

PLANT

And, there is good news today. Our people on the ground have developed advanced tracking technology. We expect to apprehend him the next time he is on the move.


EXT. RURAL AIRPORT - DAY

Wilmer lands and taxies his plane next to a helicopter at a remote uncontrolled airport.

He moves a body from the plane, places it in the helicopter. The helicopter lifts off.

FADE TO BLACK.

"Wilmer Riser is apprehended in Arizona following a short but fierce firefight."

FADE IN:


EXT. APACHE COUNTY ARIZONA - DAY SERIES OF SHOTS - WILMER'S CAPTURE

-- Wilmer's helicopter falls from the sky.

-- Wilmer scrambles carrying two high-powered rifles, RPG equipment and clips of ammo strapped to his body.

-- Robust firefight ensues.

-- Marshals service marksman disables Wilmer's RPG equipment with a single shot.

-- Wilmer fires his last round, crawls to marshal, and surrenders.


INT. APACHE COUNTY SHERIFF'S HEADQUARTERS - DAY

Deputy DEWEY GLASSHOUSE reports to his just-appointed supervisor, Captain BERT WILENT.

GLASSHOUSE

It happened at Burning Tree on Choke Road last --

WILENT

-- Hey. Slow down. Give me a chance. I just got here, you know.

GLASSHOUSE

Oh, sure, Bert. I --

WILENT

-- Hold on. I'm Captain Wilent until we get to know one another.

(MORE)

WILENT (CONT’D)

Then, you can call me Bert if I like you.

Glasshouse and Wilent share stares for a few seconds.

GLASSHOUSE

Don't talk down to me you son of a bitch. I've been here thirty years. Done it all. Retire next month. You need me more than I need you. Okey dokey?

Glasshouse relights his cigar.

He takes the do not smoke placard from Wilent's desk, tosses it in the circular file as a basketball-style hook shot.

GLASSHOUSE (CONT’D)

Ah. Three points.

Glasshouse smiles showing victory. Wilent smiles showing appreciation.

WILENT

Okey dokey. I was just testing your mettle. You know what? I like you. Call me Bert. Okey dokey?

Glasshouse passed Wilent's test.

WILENT (CONT’D)

Where is Burning Tree? Where is Choke Road?

GLASSHOUSE

It's Apache County Road N8604. Story is a man died violently next to a tree that just got hit by lightning. His wife was driving the man home from the dentist.

Wilent leans back in his chair. Closes his eyes. Sighs.

WILENT

Sorry I asked but go on.

GLASSHOUSE

He had a new lower denture in his mouth and a forty-four-ounce drink in his hand. He choked and died on the spot.


Glasshouse puffs on the cigar. Blows smoke Wilent's direction.

Wilent waves a paper at the smoke.

WILENT

Are you finished?

GLASSHOUSE

Almost. Bad news is he lost his life and the drink. Good news is he saved the denture.

WILENT

C'mon, spit it out.

GLASSHOUSE

Locals swear the spot is haunted by thirsty man’s ghost. Some say they have seen dozens of ghosts rise from below the ground and float over the spot.

WILENT

Cut to the chase, please.

GLASSHOUSE

Nearly everyone agrees it is the location of Wilmer's victim's eternal home. Teenagers have stopped partying there.

Wilent's irritation shows. He becomes fidgety.

WILENT

Thank you for the education. OK. What happened?

GLASSHOUSE

Well, Riser comes swooping down trying to escape the marshals.

Got a bit too low and just as he opened the door sporting a rifle, a body fell from the bird.

WILENT

Interesting.

GLASSHOUSE

A United States marshal sat him down, ask him questions, but Riser only wisecracked through the corner of his mouth.


Vigorous cigar chomping by Glasshouse.

GLASSHOUSE (CONT’D)

I figure Riser was taking the man to Burning Tree.

WILENT

Did you say a United States marshal?

GLASSHOUSE

Yes, sir.

WILENT

How did we get involved with the Marshals service?

GLASSHOUSE

Two of our deputies responded to an unrelated call. They saw all the lights flashing and about a dozen marshals. Naturally they stopped and asked questions.

WILENT

And?

GLASSHOUSE

Riser was flying a helicopter along Interstate Forty. Riser turned south toward Burning Tree like he knew exactly what he was doing.

WILENT

How did the shoot-out come about?

GLASSHOUSE

It started in the air. It ended after Riser crashed his copter into a marshals' car followed by a twenty-second shoot-out. Riser ran out of ammo.

WILENT

Any deaths?

GLASSHOUSE

None. Two marshals survived with injuries. They were admitted to the hospital. Nothing life threatening.

WILENT

Was Riser injured?


GLASSHOUSE

No. Get this. One of the marshals saw Riser put on Kevlar KM2 armor while in the air. Must have learned about it during his army days.

WILENT

Anything else?

GLASSHOUSE

A lot. Other things have happened over the years at Burning Tree.

Eight bodies were dumped there just last year.

WILENT

Did the Marshals Service investigate?

GLASSHOUSE

Don't know. Word came for us to keep out of it. My guess now is that there is a Riser connection. If I'm right, everybody will be investigating.

WILENT

Suppose so. Who are the expired?

GLASSHOUSE

Don't know their names. All the dead are believed to be victims of Riser's contract killings. All are from back East. Go figure.

WILENT

I will. Keep me informed.

As Glasshouse exits, Wilent calls him back.

WILENT (CONT’D)

Glasshouse.

GLASSHOUSE

Yes?

WILENT

Okey dokey?

GLASSHOUSE

Okey dokey, Bart.

Wilent peers over his glasses.


WILENT

It's Bert.

GLASSHOUSE

Sorry, Bert. Okey dokey.

Glasshouse turns to the door wearing an almost invisible gotcha smile.


INT. FEDERAL PRISON UNDISCLOSED LOCATION - DAY VISITOR'S ROOM

Separated by a glass partition, DREW BONES sits facing Wilmer.

DREW

It's a lost cause. I'll not continue serving as your attorney.

WILMER

You'll get your money. Don't sweat it.

DREW

This isn't about money.

Wilmer responds with his usual stick-it-in-your-ear style.

WILMER

What's it about? My survival? My dignity?

DREW

No. Mine. When you and I appear in court together, I might as well migrate to the North Pole and work for Santa Claus.

WILMER

You are funny today.

DREW

Anyway. Down to brass tacks. Your fate rests with the United States Supreme Court.

WILMER

Aw, get outa here. The Supreme Court doesn't have original jurisdiction in criminal cases.


DREW

It can. We'll see. Article III, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution is clear but in your case the Court might break the rules.

WILMER

Those dullards are a joke. If the Court were meaningful, all opinions would be unanimous. They all studied the same Constitution and they all have the same facts.

DREW

I'm outa here.

WILMER

What do mean, outa here?

DREW

I'm done with you. Resigning. Get another attorney. Understand?

WILMER

No. Years ago you said you would represent me through thick and thin. Remember? Are you representing me?

DREW

Yes and no.

WILMER

Yes and no? Take your ass off your shoulders and put your head back on. Level with me.

DREW

Yes, I remember and no I'm not representing you. I've changed my mind.

WILMER

Where is your sense of justice?

DREW

Justice? Talk to Pete Rose about justice.

Wilmer bolts from the chair. Breaks the glass barrier with his right hand.


WILMER

Listen to me, you piece of shit. If you leave me, I'll make up a story and tell the world you pulled off the D.B. Cooper caper.

DREW

You are as full of shit as a Christmas turkey. Always have been. Always will be.

WILMER

You don't know shit from Shinola. Never have. Never will.

Wilmer uses both hands to shatter the glass barrier.

WILMER (CONT’D)

(Screaming) Fat ass.

The guard escorts Drew out of the visitors' area. Another guard escorts Wilmer to the

DISPENSARY

where a doctor inspects and treats Wilmer's broken fingers. A guard escorts Wilmer back to his

Cell

Wilmer attempts to joke with his guard escort.

WILMER (CONT’D)

Did you hear the one about --

GUARD

-- Get in. You're persona non grata with me.

WILMER

It works both ways, Hoss.

GUARD

What's with the Hoss bullshit?

WILMER

Nothing. Nothing at all, Sunshine. Or is it Sourpuss?


GUARD

Jesus Christ. If I didn't need a job, I would...

The guard rolls his eyes, slams the cell door and leaves.

WILMER

Hey, did you hear the one about the woman flying an airplane upside down?

No answer from the guard.

Wilmer lets go with his unique earsplitting horselaugh. He yells down the hall toward the guard.

WILMER (CONT’D)

She had a crackup.

Wilmer continues laughing as he repeatedly slaps his knee.


EXT. UNITED STATES SUPREME COURT BUILDING - DAY

National cable television reporter GUY BIGGS makes a major announcement from the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court building.

BIGGS

In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court today released its opinion that Wilmer Riser is guilty of the many heinous assaults upon the people of the United States.

Biggs takes two quick breaths.

BIGGS (CONT’D)

Mr. Riser will be transported to the United States Penitentiary at Terre Haute, Indiana where he will be executed within sixty days.


EXT. UNITED STATES PENITENTIARY - NIGHT

BIGGS

Wilmer Riser was executed minutes ago in this building behind me.

Riser refused communication with any religious authority and the press...


Biggs shows disbelief. Scratches his head.

BIGGS (CONT’D)

...He refused a last meal giving the reason because, quote, I'm on a diet, unquote.


INT. HILTON GARDEN INN, TANGIER, MOROCCO - DAY

Two people, a man, and a woman, sit in the lounge talking while sipping drinks.

They leave the lounge. Their faces become clear as they step into the

ELEVATOR

Alone, they kiss holding the other's hands, reminiscent of their last day together at West Point.

WALLY

It's so nice being together again.

FLASHBACK


EXT. ALONG THE HUDSON RIVER - DAY

WALLY

I know you very well. I love you too.

WILMA

Somehow, this doesn't seem like the time to talk about love.

BACK TO PRESENT DAY

They face each other and kiss while holding hands.

WILMA (CONT’D)

This is the right time to talk about love too.

They kiss again. The door closes.


SUPER: "Three years later"

FADE TO BLACK.


FADE IN:


SUPER: "The United States continues its long rebuilding process."

SUPER: "The citizens of the United States have put their petty crusades and greed aside. People now live in the spirit of one for all and all for one."

SUPER: "Wilma Riser Downey enjoys a reclusive life with her retired husband, Lt. Colonel Wally Downey, at an unknown location believed to be in Morocco."

SUPER: "The events surrounding Wilma's so-called death were investigated, the coffin was exhumed, revealing a mannequin."

SUPER: "Beaumont Pickens became the county sheriff upon Sheriff Rudy Wills’ forced resignation."

SUPER: "No part of Billy Victor's remains have been identified."

SUPER: "WILMA RISER MADE A DIFFERENCE."


THE END