Script Title
The Rise, Fall and Survival of Wilma Riser
Copyright Notice
© 2025 Larry L. Croft
Permission is hereby granted to reproduce and transmit this speculative film script – The Rise, Fall and Survival of Wilma Riser – in its entirety only. Partial reproduction is not permitted in any form for any reason.
Disclosure
Except for the following names, any mention of same or similar names in this speculative film script is purely unintentional.
D.B. Cooper Elvis Presley
Adolph Hitler John Gotti
Jesus Christ Ted Kaczynski
Dwight Eisenhower Douglas MacArthur
George Patton
LOGLINE
Wilma Riser evolved from a wholesome Mensa International member and three-time valedictorian to a homegrown terrorist intent on destroying the United States of America.
SYNOPSIS
During the latter years of the twentieth century, the great 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.
PLOT
Wilma Riser enjoys a picture-perfect childhood, enjoying spending time with friends and engaging in extracurricular activities at school.
During her high school senior year, the wholesome Wilma is accepted for admission to the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York.
At West Point, Wilma experiences her first life failure. She does not meet the rigid physical requirements for continuing as a cadet. Before returning home, her only source of encouragement is the friendship of Cadet Wally Downey, a friendship that endures throughout her trials and tribulations.
After returning to her Indianapolis home, Wilma’s billionaire parents, Stephen and Janice Riser, are instrumental in restoring Wilma’s self-confidence. Wilma continues her education by earning two university degrees: chemistry and law. As in high school, she is class valedictorian at both institutions.
Wilma’s good fortune continues during her employment with the Indianapolis law firm Thomas Lynch and Ward (TLW). After TLW, Wilma moves to Washington D.C. as the voters of Indiana chose her to become their United States senator.
On Wilma’s first day as a United States senator, long time senator Tommy Tracker becomes Wilma’s nemesis. Wilma rebuffs Tracker’s unwelcome advances. Tracker becomes bitter and enlists Billy Victor, her childhood nemesis who follows her to Washington and became a newsman known as Newsman Nate, to help destroy Wilma’s career.
Billy Victor, rebuffed by Wilma in high school and seeking revenge, wears various disguises and keeps her in his crosshairs.
The two cohorts unsuccessfully attempt to kill Wilma by automobile on a Washington street. While hospitalized, Wilma explains to the police her long-running abuse at the hands of Tommy Tracker and her tormenting by Billy Victor.
Together, Tracker and Victor succeed in turning almost all senate members against Wilma. Wilma’s only friend in the senate, Donna Jeanne Marion, explains to Wilma that Tracker and Victor have a vendetta against her. Knowing defeat is inevitable, Wilma submits her resignation from the senate.
Further, in her anger, Wilma insults the United States citizens as she addresses the nation via television. In doing so, the small crowd in attendance becomes unruly, resulting in the capitol police intervening. She storms off exclaiming her work is not finished and she will make a difference.
As she packs her belongings for leaving Washington, she learns of Tracker’s suicide. In a note, Tracker admits he tried to kill Wilma in the hit and run assault.
Wilma receives a mysterious phone call immediately after the suicide announcement. The caller discloses enough information to convince Wilma the caller is her high school acquaintance, Billy Victor.
To escape negative publicity, Wilma leaves Washington for parts unknown with her long-time friend U.S. Army Major Wally Downey.
Just before departing Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport Wilma emails her brother, Wilmer, requesting his help with a list of instructions. Wilmer, a wisecracking buffoon who has had multiple jail sentences, is believed by many to be a hired gun and drug runner.
Rumors swirl that Wilma is no longer alive and her body lies in the Gulf of Mexico.
For Wilma, Wilmer supervises the development of a three-square-mile residential property near the fictional town of Clyde, Arizona. An ugly dilapidated double-wide sits atop the very upscale bunker equipped with state-of-the-art electronic security. The double-wide’s purpose is to send the message the occupant is not the wealthy Wilma but a dirt-poor woman going by the name of Gertie.
Wilmer meets Wilma and her small dog, Zeus, at the Clyde airport. While at a fast-food restaurant in Clyde, Wilmer spots a suspicious-acting man wearing an eye patch at Wilma’s car. Wilmer leaves the restaurant to confront the man. He fails to capture the man but learns from Wilma he is Billy Victor
At the property, Wilmer gives Wilma a tour of her upscale bunker. When preparing to leave Wilma’s property, Wilmer spots a man pretending to diagnose his stalled truck. The truck driver offers Wilmer a ride to the Clyde airport where Wilmer’s Cessna Citation jet is parked. Wilmer recognizes the eyepatch and realizes the man is Billy Victor.
Victor pulls a gun from his pocket and points it at Wilmer’s face. Wilmer gains the upper hand, drags Victor to a railroad crossing and tosses Wilma’s long-time stalker in front of a fast-moving freight train.
Wilmer continues his trip to the airport using the driver’s truck.
As he inspects his plane before departure, Wilmer finds a tracking device attached to the underside of his plane. Wilmer returns to Wilma’s property and, together, they find a tracking device mounted inside the fender of Wilma’s car.
They conclude Billy Victor tracked Wilmer during his flight to Clyde, put another tracking device on Wilma’s car at the burger joint and tracked them to Wilma’s property.
As he recalls Victor’s comments, he realizes either he or Wilma, or both, are targets for execution.
As part of revengeful Wilma’s plan, she and Wilmer completely demolish the U.S. Capitol building and three media outlets. The buildings housing broadcast media outlets in New York and Atlanta were completely destroyed in the same manner as the U.S. Capitol. And the headquarters of one of the nation's largest newspapers located in New York is demolished too.
Television viewers see gory details consisting of overturned vehicles, bodies in the streets, demolished buildings, sky-high dust, and first responders in addition to
still photos and videos shared by spectators.
Wilma watches television coverage of the disasters as she and Zeus share vanilla ice cream using the same spoon. Wilma kisses Zeus. Zeus slobbers on Wilma's face.
Wilma continues her assault on the United States by destroying eight post office buildings across the country.
When learning the law suspects her as the people’s enemy, the distraught Wilma confesses all via a television hack courtesy of brother Wilmer and fakes her suicide to the viewing audience.
Donna Jeanne Marion comes forward after reading a newspaper article containing unique wording Wilma frequently used. Donna Jeanne gives the FBI interviewer a photo of Wilma and Zeus which is plastered on the front page of newspapers across the county.
Clyde resident, Beaumont Pickens reports his belief Wilma is alive to a sheriff’s deputy.
Believing Wilma is deceased, the U.S. Department of Justice forms an Awareness Team for capturing Wilmer and bringing to him to justice. Joy Sitka leads the team.
Twenty-five members of the United States Department of Justice, including one Army general and one Navy, admiral enter a large conference room.
Sitka explains the team’s role is to process information obtained from the various law enforcement and intelligence entities investigating the destruction of the country.
Chase Plant, Sitka’s right-hand man explains that people are more demoralized than during the Great Depression. Suicides and home invasions are spiking and shoplifting gangs are forcing business closings. The team learns Wilmer operates a modern twin engine jet plane, a helicopter, and an unknown number of drones. And that he is physically snake-quick and just as slick. There is reliable evidence suggesting he has been malcontented since childhood.
Plant adds that Wilmer is a human junkyard dog. He is bitter about everything and
is the most irreligious man you will ever have the misfortune of meeting.
Admiral Johnny Swabie tells the team a civil war is brewing from the hostility of civilian insurgents and that there will be no leaders, only unhinged malcontents in every nook and cranny.
Wilmer continues the destruction using the alias Chester Nojester. He attracts ordinary citizens who are fed up with the direction the country is heading.
With nearly all major highways closed by piles of dirt, commerce slows to a crawl. Grocery store shelves are empty and stores close due to shoplifting; desperate people turn on others, the unemployment rate is the highest in recent memory.
Wilmer, identifying as Chester Nojester, issues a warning to U.S. President Joel Nogo. He gives Nogo sixty days to restore the country to its earlier days.
The ordeal comes to an end when the U.S. Marshals Service force Wilmer’s surrender during a fierce fire fight after Wilmer’s helicopter crashes in the area where it is believed Wilmer dumped eight bodies from his contract killings.
Wilmer receives the harshest sentence one can imagine.
In the final scene, Wilma is in Tangier, Morocco with Wally Downey. We see them holding hands and kissing as the elevator door closes.
As of the year 2005, with the nation's landscape much as it was in 1900, the United States continues its long rebuilding process.
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.
Wilma Riser kept her lifelong promise. She made a difference.
BLACK SCREEN
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:
SUPER: "INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA"
INT. AERIAL VIEW INDIANAPOLIS - DAY SERIES OF SHOTS - INDIANAPOLIS
ATTRACTIONS
-- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
-- Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument
-- Children's Museum of Indianapolis
-- Indiana Statehouse
-- Indiana World War Memorial Plaza
EXT. SIDEWALK AT 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 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 sits his brief case 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.
WILMA Grump
All laugh.
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 requirements.
The normally talkative Wilma merely nods her head in agreement without speaking.
INSTRUCTOR 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.
MOM Hello
WILMA Hi mom. It's me.
MOM Why are you calling? Aren't you in class?
WILMA 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 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 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 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 I'm ashamed of you. Talking like this in front of your sister.
Mom sits down.
Looks directly in Wilmer’s face.
MOM She is an all-American girl. World class. The girl next door. And you?
Mom looks at Wilmer showing contempt.
WILMER Whatever. With your black belt know-how, you should have shoved a knee into somebody's undercarriage.
MOM That's enough.
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 SCENE
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 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 has always been a nasty stink.
Dad laughs, Wilma grins, and Mom glares at both. Wilma and Mom begin cleaning the dining area.
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 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 Dr. Stone. Distinguished guests, beloved faculty, cherished family, friends and my esteemed fellow graduates.
Wilma pauses, gazes the audience.
WILMA 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 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 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 We are proud of you, Wilma.
WILMER Uh-oh sis. Here comes your longtime nemesis.
Wilma looks up startled. She recognizes the right eyepatch 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 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 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
Dorothy, the receptionist greets Wilma.
Dorothy (using the intercom) Mister Thomas, Wilma Riser is here for her interview.
Thomas asks Dorthory to bring Wilma to his office.
DOROTHY Please follow me Ms. Riser.
Dorothy escorts Wilma to Jack Thomas' very impressive office.
Paintings adorn the walls.
Thomas' desk, the office chairs and sofa ae 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 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.
JACK 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 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 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 Wilma, I am pleased to offer you an entry-level position in our personal injury division.
Wilma's facial expression encourages Jack Thomas.
JACK
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, all in capital letters: I'm watching you.
Worried, she goes to bed around midnight. She has restless night tossing and turning.
EXT. LOS ANGELES - DAY
A strong early morning earthquake jolts the city causing structural damage.
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.
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
An ambulance 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 WILMA'S ROOM
Doctor ROGER BOBAL attends Wilma.
DOCTOR BOBAL You are much better than when you came this morning. 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 You should care but you don't even though you just inherited more money than you have ever earned legally.
Wilma shows disgust.
WILMA 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. Employment here has brought you a wealth of publicity and popularity. You are a household name 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.
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 THOMAS 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. Like everybody employed here, you are top-notch.
Applause
JACK 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 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.
Marvin winks toward Wilma.
MARVIN LYNCH 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.
Marvin looks at Wilma.
MARVIN LYNCH 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 and applause from all except Jack Williams who 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 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 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 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 and 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.
INT. INDIANAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER - EVENING
SUPER: "ONE YEAR LATER"
Banners dominate the 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 applauses robustly.
When the applause stops, Wilma 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 You can count on me coming through as I promised during the campaign.
Wilma pauses before concluding her speech.
WILMA 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 (To herself) Probably just Billy Victor. No big deal.
She squeezes the insult, tosses it in the waste can, 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, 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 250 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.
She turns her back to Tracker to conceal her disgust then returns to face him.
She smiles.
WILMA 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 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 -- Ah, no buts accepted.
WILMA Well, I learned many years ago to avoid socializing one-on-one with male work colleagues.
SENATOR TRACKER 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 First-year senators learn very early they have to color between the lines to get along.
Wilma loses interest in the conversation, shakes her head, and flips the speaker switch on.
She folds laundry.
She smiles while looking at Wally's picture.
WILMA Are you threatening me, Senator?
SENATOR TRACKER 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 the door and enters.
She gasps 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.
Wilma returns to work and
Tracker leaves.
TRACKER'S OFFICE
Tracker closes the door, raises his arm and pumps his fist above his head.
SENATOR TRACKER (Whispers) 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 without an eye patch.
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 and continues down the street.
She enters a gym for her daily workout.
INT. JIM'S GYM - CONTINUOUS
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 VICTOR 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 No, she owes me this. No woman rebuffs me.
BILLY VICTOR She's finishing up now. Should be on the street in ten minutes.
SENATOR TRACKER 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 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.
WILMA Thank you.
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 banging her fist on the table.
WILMA I'm sorry. But I have to ask. What's going on? Why do the men senators hate me?
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 Hi Barbara.
Barbara approaches.
DONNA JEANNE 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. Probably about some woman.
Wilma looks at Donna Jeanne
DONNA JEANNE Oh?
BARBARA You don't want to know.
Wilma looks at Donna Jeanne.
BARBARA 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. 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 I 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
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.
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 well-adjusted 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 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 shows impending defeat.
DONNA JEANNE 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 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 toa 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 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 And to the voters, I ask for what do you use your heads? Hat racks? You elect the scummiest to represent you.
Wilma senses a crowd of anger building to a fever pitch. She takes a deep breath.
WILMA I wanted to make a difference. I wanted to help return the country to what the founders envisioned.
Wilma fields streams of invectives.
WILMA 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 A few minutes ago, I submitted my resignation letter, effective today. 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 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 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 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 I've been called all the spiteful names imaginable. Even a bitch. If I must wear the name, I will play the game.
The angry crowd continues its out-of-control tongue-lashing.
WILMA 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 I will make a difference. Mark my words!
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 Change it. We'll lose all our readers.
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. I'm beginning to think you 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
TUBBS
Mister Victor, I am letting you go on your goddamned way.
Billy Victor becomes enraged with visible hostility brewing.
TUBBS You have put more effort into trashing Wilma Riser than you have to satisfying me.
Billy slams his chair against the wall.
TUBBS 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 bones out of here.
Security escorts Billy out of the building.
INT. WILMA'S APARTMENT - NIGHT
While packing to leave Washington, a television news report by 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 and staggers to her sofa.
JOHNNY ONSPOT In a possible related manner, the body of Senator Tommy Tracker was found in his Washington apartment.
Wilma screams.
JOHNNY ONSPOT 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.
WILMA Yes.
An UNIDENTIFIED MAN responds.
UNIDENTIFIED MAN Have you heard about Tommy?
WILMA Senator Tracker?
UNIDENTIFIED MAN Uh-huh.
WILMA Yes, I heard. Who are you?
UNIDENTIFIED MAN 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 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.
FLASHBACK
INT. THE STOCKYARD RESTAURANT - NIGHT
Wilma and Billy walk a few steps from the Riser table.
WILMA Billy, I'm pleased to see you. How have you been?
Billy ignored Wilma's question.
BILLY 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 walks off in a huff.
Unperturbed, Wilma returns to the table.
BACK TO SCENE
WILMA I know who you are. It just clicked. Only one person has ever called me a pompous Mensan. You are Billy Victor. You have been stalking me, haven't you? Billy? Billy?
Caller disconnects.
INT. WILMA'S APARTMENT - DAY
Wilma eats breakfast while packing for an upcoming flight.
She hears a familiar voice on 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 Because Victor has been very critical of Wilma Riser, who has also disappeared, the speculation is that these events are connected.
Wilma picks up her newly acquired dog, Zeus.
JOHNNY ONSPOT Further, some people theorize the recent suicide of Senator Tommy Tracker is also connected to these curious disappearances.
Wilma kisses Zeus.
She calls for a taxi to take her to the airport.
INT. RONALD REAGAN WASHINGTON NATIONAL AIRPORT - DAY
Two people stand at the coffee shop entrance.
Man wears a cowboy hat.
COWBOY 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.
WILMA Thank you.
Wilma emails Wilmer a list of instructions to perform during her expected lengthy absence.
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. I even go to church on Christmas and Halloween.
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. I'm an expert in solving computer 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 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 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. MUSEUM - DAY
SUPER: "NAPLES, ITALY"
ARTWORK
Wilma and Wally stroll each of the floors holding hands.
They point and comment about various artwork.
A well-dressed man wearing sunglasses appears to view the artwork while watching Wilma and Wally.
Wilma and Wally leave. The 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.
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.
WALLY Do you want me to talk to him?
WILMA No, I don't want to risk the government learning my traveling name.
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.
"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.
They kiss.
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 to live the life of a Washington low-life.
Wilma walks toward her gate.
They 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.
INT. ALONG THE HIGHWAY TO CLYDE, ARIZONA - DAY
PAPPY, a Phoenix radio personality captures the attention of Wilma and Wilmer.
PAPPY We have just received word that the search for former U.S. Senator Wilma Riser has ended.
Wilmer ups the volume.
PAPPY 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.
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. That's all I know.
WILMA Huh? That's Billy Victor. Remember? He was hit hard by a baseball in high school and lost his eye.
WILMER Oh, yeah.
WILMA He is still after me. Only God knows my hatred for him. He stalked Wally and I on our around the world trip. Didn’t say 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. He made up stories about me and circulated them to my Senate colleagues. All lies.
Wilma looks at Wilmer.
WILMA He didn't just go to Washington like everybody else. His grudge took him there.
INT. ALONG THE HIGHWAY - DAY
WILMER Your new home is 15 miles from Clyde. It's an 8,000 square foot underground structure with luxury you won't believe. In the middle of three square miles.
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 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 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 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. You know. To make a difference
.
WILMER Let's.
EXT. DOUBLE WIDE PORCH - DAY
Wilma with iced tea and Zeus, mixed drink for Wilmer, water for Zeus.
WILMER Shoot sis.
Wilma gives Wilmer an overview of her vicious plan.
WILMA Here is what I want to do.
FADE TO BLACK.
FADE IN:
She looks at Wilmer. His back-patting smile says it all.
WILMER Suits me. It's getting dark. I'm going home now.
WILMA 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 TRUCK DRIVER closes the hood, gets in the truck and speeds toward Wilmer.
The truck 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 eyes and gives Wilmer a sorry-I-asked look.
WILMER 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 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 Talk asswipe. Who are you?
TRUCK DRIVER I forget.
Driver's labored breathing worsens.
WILMER Why are you here?
T
TRUCK DRIVER To off you and 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 drags Victor from the truck, repeatedly stomps the heel of his heavy cowboy boot on drivers's head.
He yanks the eye patch off the driver’s head, sees an empty eye socket.
Wilmer Well, hello Mr. Victor. Are you here to propose to Wilma?
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 starts talking to the corpse.
WILMER Who is the careless dumb son of a bitch now?
A train's diesel horn sounds not far away.
WILMER 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. If you have any teeth left, 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 Thank you, guys.
INT. THE DIESEL ENGINE – NIGHT
The ENGINEER grabs the brake handle.
ENGINEER Jesus Christ and George Patton.
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 seeing only blood and shattered bones.
Engineer reports the incident to the company dispatcher by radio.
INT. RED PICKUP TRUCK - NIGHT
Wilmer drives to Clyde.
About five miles before reaching Clyde, oncoming police cars sporting red and blue lights with a siren blaring pass Wilmer.
EXT. HAPPY NIGHT MOTEL PARKING LOT – NIGHT
Wilmer ditches the latex gloves and puts on another pair.
He takes his luggage from the truck.
With the truck’s license plate in his hand, Wilmer walks about fifty feet to a pay phone.
He 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.
Wilmer grunts.
EXT. HAPPY NIGHT 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 Here's your tip.
Wilmer gives the cabbie a middle finger salute while opening red pickup truck door.
He throws his luggage in the truck bed.
He reinstalls the license plate, hops in and drives off.
EXT. WILMA'S PATIO - NIGHT
Wilmer knocks loud. 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 Riser.
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. CLYDE AIRPORT RAMP – NIGHT
Wilmer thoroughly wipes all traces of his being at the truck. He transfers his belongings from the truck to his plane.
He climbs into the cockpit, taxis to the runway, speeds down the runway and departs.
EXT. ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT RAMP - DAY
Wilma accepts delivery of her customized twin-engine Cessna Citation from the Cessna dealer, JULES GRAY.
GRAY Here are the ownership papers and the keys.
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 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 you. 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. Other people can find me too.
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 begins to present her plan.
FADE TO BLACK.
FADE IN
WILMA Are you game?
WILMER 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 to each participant and death to all participants and their families if word leaks from any source.
EXT. ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT RAMP – DAY
WILMER A successful deal.
Wilmer hands her a cell phone.
WILMER 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.
WILMA Me too.
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 Authorities are investigating nonstop, assuming foreign terrorists are responsible.
Another employee hands Anders a document.
JAY ANDERS And, we have limited information that media outlets in Atlanta and New York have also been attacked. Stay tuned for more developments.
INT. OVAL OFFICE WHITEHOUSE – DAY
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, and continues.
PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO Today, I ordered our military leaders to place all military members based in the United States on ready alert.
An image four United States fighter aircraft is displayed.
PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO Private, commercial, and military aircraft pilots have been instructed to report suspicious aircraft.
President Nogo pauses for a drink of water.
PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO 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 toward the sky and scans the crowd.
PRESIDENT JOEL NOGO 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.
Images appear showing crushed cars, fallen debris, sky-high dust and despondent people.
LUTZ These images show demolished post offices at Nashville, Wilmington, Phoenix, Denver, Miami, South Bend, Seattle, and Baton Rouge.
Lutz pauses, drinks from a paper cup and wipes her brow.
LUTZ We expect to have more information during the noon news.
INT. WILMER'S COME-TO-JESUS VAN – DAY
At his desk inside a plush van, Wilmer listens to Los Angeles radio personality, JANIE.
JANIE 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 travel trailer in a windowless room void of wall decorations, Wilmer speaks wearing a black hood and using an electronic voice-altering device.
WILMER Hello friends. CHESTER NOJESTER here with you. The United States will be fixed. I promise.
Wilmer plays patriotic background music.
WILMER Our citizen-driven militia consists of one-half million red-blooded Americans. This leaderless word-of mouth approach will get the job done.
Wilmer sips from a water glass.
WILMER 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 There is enough government bullshit to go around for all of us. Keep up the good work. We will take this country back from those Washington politicians.
With a hoarse voice brought on by Wilmer's militaristic evangelical zeal, he ends his plea.
WILMER That's all for now. I'm Chester NoJester saying let's make ourselves proud.
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 signs.
As a revolt mushrooms across the fruited plain, every man, woman, and child senses a civil war brewing.
INT. WILMA'S BEDROOM – 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 the bunker 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 one gallon 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.