CAST OF CHARACTERS

(In order of appearance)

ADAM ESTES

Bradley Cooper
 

 

SHELIA ESTES

Rachel McAdams
 
 

TOMMY ESTES

Ty Wood
 

 

DANNY ESTES

Zachary Gordon
 
 

CRAZY JACK

Randy Quaid
 
 

SKIP KEILTY

Fred Thompson
 

SARAH TALLEY

Marny Kennedy
 

JASPER DOUGLAS

Morgan Freeman
 
 

IRENE DOUGLAS

Cicely Tyson
 
 

PHARMACIST

Alessandro Juliani
 

MAYOR

Wayne Duvall 

 

BOBBY JOHNSON

William Fichtner
 
 

CHARLIE DOUGLAS

Lee Thompson Young
 

 

SLASH

Dwayne Johnson 

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

Woody Harrelson
 

JIMMY BASTROP

Red West
 
 

 

 

 

 

EXT. AERIAL SHOT OF THE EARTH FROM 100 MILES ABOVE - FRIDAY JUST BEFORE MIDNIGHT


(SOUNDTRACK - Ry Cooder's 'All Shook Up' playing on a radio in the background as beginning titles roll)

SLOW ZOOM IN: On Southeastern U.S. At 50,000 Feet

TEEN GIRL

(off screen)
(giggling in background)

TEEN BOY

(off screen)

Come on what's taking so long?

ZOOM IN:South Georgia At 10,000 Feet

TEEN GIRL

(off screen)

Quit rocking the pirogue!

ZOOM IN: Okefenokee Swamp - 100 Feet Above A Lantern-Lit Pirogue Out In The Lake

CUT TO

EXT. PIROGUE - FEW MINUTES LATER

TEEN BOY

 

Yeah buddy, that's what I'm talking about.

Seductive look by the TEEN GIRL as she undresses.

TEEN GIRL

 

Well, what are you waiting for?

Love making begins.

TEEN GIRL

 

(moaning)

To the north, the sky lights up brightly and a muffled explosion gets the TEEN GIRL's attention.

TEEN GIRL (Cont.)

 

Hey, look at the fireworks.

 

TEEN BOY

 

Yep, they're cool. Kind of far away though. Now where were we?

Love making continues.


ZOOM IN: On Radio In Back of The Pirogue

(radio crackles, 'All Shook Up' stops abruptly and the illuminated dial goes dark)


FADE TO BLACK


FADE IN

INT. ESTES RESIDENCE BEDROOM - DAWN OF DAY ONE

Rooster crows outside window. ADAM and SHELIA are asleep in the spooning position. The rooster crows a second time. ADAM rolls to his side and pulls the pillow over his head. Then removing the pillow, he looks towards the digital clock on the nightstand.

ADAM

(to himself)

Oh great, the power is out again.

CUT TO

INT. ESTES BATHROOM - FEW MINUTES LATER

The shower is turned on.

ADAM

(to himself as he checks the temperature)

Damn! The water is getting cold.

ADAM’S POV IN MIRROR

Well-chiseled body and has a towel wrapped around his waist. ADAM rubs the stubble on his face.

ADAM

(to himself)

I am not shaving with lukewarm water.

SHELIA walks into bathroom, kisses ADAM on the cheek and sits down on toilet.

ADAM

 

What are you doing up so early on Saturday?

 

SHELIA

 

I didn't sleep well. Why is it warm in the house?

 

ADAM

 

The electricity is off again. I'm going to call the power company and tell them that I'm getting tired of this stuff.

SHELIA

 

I wish you would. It's been a problem now for months.

SHELIA is in silk pajamas. Blonde shoulder-length hair is mussed but still attractive. Standing, she begins to leave the bathroom.

SHELIA

 

I guess we'll have cereal for breakfast then.

CUT TO

INT. KITCHEN - FEW MINUTES LATER

ADAM joins SHELIA at breakfast table.

ADAM

 

I've got to run over to the jobsite in Dahlonega for a couple of hours but when I get back I'll cut the grass.

 

SHELIA

 

OK, I'm taking the boys to WalMart to pick up some school supplies and then run a few errands. We should be back by noon.

 

ADAM

 

I think Tommy is excited about starting high school.

 

SHELIA

(concerned)

Yeah, but Danny is not so happy about seventh grade though.

 

ADAM

 

He'll be fine. I'm hoping he gets involved with sports or something. That might help.

ADAM places his dishes in the sink and removes his truck keys from a peg on the wall. He kisses SHELIA on the forehead and then exits to the garage.

SHELIA goes to the sink and runs some water in her bowl.

ADAM

(returns from garage disgruntled)

My pickup won't start. I’ll have to take your Tahoe.

 

SHELIA

 

What's wrong with it?

 

ADAM

 

Don't know. I’m in a hurry, so I'll look at it when I get back. Probably the battery.

SHELIA walks into the LIVING ROOM

CUT TO

INT. LIVING ROOM - COUPLE OF MINUTES LATER

SHELIA tries to turn on television.

SHELIA

(to herself)

Crap! That's it. I'm going to call Georgia Power.

SHELIA picks up her cell phone from coffee table and presses the "on" button.

ADAM returns to LIVING ROOM.

ADAM

(puzzled)

Something is wrong. Your car is dead too.

Reaching into his pocket ADAM retrieves his cell phone. Pressing the buttons, he gets no results.

ADAM

 

Where’s your cell? I need to call the guys and tell them I’ll be late.

 

SHELIA

(glancing at her phone)

Mine won’t come on either.

A sense of urgency now grips the pair as they begin to scurry around the house in search of a working electronic device.

CUT TO


INT. TOMMY’S BEDROOM – A FEW MINTES LATER

TOMMY is in bed asleep. Posters of various sports stars line the walls and clothing is scattered around the floor. SHELIA begins rummaging through items on his small study desk in the corner and wakes her oldest son.

TOMMY

(groggily)

What are you looking for mom?

 

SHELIA

 

Where’s your Blackberry?

 

TOMMY

 

In my pants pocket, I think.

TOMMY is rubbing his eyes.

SHELIA reveals the phone only to find a blank screen.

CUT TO


INT. DANNY’S BEDROOM – SAME TIME

ADAM pushes the power button on DANNY’s laptop. Flipping open his son’s cell, he then places it back on the boy’s nightstand; as it doesn't come on.

SHELIA enters DANNY’S BEDROOM.

SHELIA

 

Well?

 

ADAM

 

Nothing.

 

SHELIA

 

Adam, this is not right.

 

ADAM

 

There has got to be a logical explanation for all this. Tell you what, I’m going to saddle up Old Blue and head to town. You and the boys stay close to the house and I’ll be back in a while.

CUT TO


EXT. TWO-LANED PAVED ROAD (TWO MILES FROM ESTES RESIDENCE)- MID MORNING

(SOUNDTRACK - Traveling Wilbury’s ‘End of the Line’ plays in the background as ADAM rides along)

ADAM is trotting along on horseback trying to make sense of the current events. ADAM passes the third empty vehicle he’s seen on the road.

ADAM

(to himself)

There’s another one. Nobody is inside of it either. Why would someone just leave their cars parked in the middle of the road?

ADAM scans the fields visually to his left and right. The scattered farms and houses show no activity. No vehicles have passed him since he rode out of the barn. The only movements are two fairly large plumes of smoke he sees rising in the distance to the north and northeast of his position. Rounding a corner ADAM sees the KOUNTRY PANTRY STORE and reins his horse in its direction.

(‘End of the Line’ finishes playing in the background)

CUT TO

EXT. KOUNTRY PANTRY STORE- FEW MINUTES LATER
The building is a brick structure with four covered gas pumps. As ADAM nears, he recognizes a solitary man sitting on the wooden bench outside the store's double glass entry doors.

CRAZY JACK is the only name that ADAM has ever heard him referred to as. ADAM frequents the small bait store on Lake Lanier that the older man owns. CRAZY JACK is a scruffy codger that is in his early sixties. He is wearing a pair of light blue coveralls and a dirty baseball hat that covers his greasy hair.

CUT TO

CRAZY JACK lights up a cigarette. ADAM dismounts and ties the horse to a rack that holds propane tanks around the corner.

ADAM

 

What are you doing over here Jack?

 

CRAZY JACK

 

Counting my flipping money. What’s it to you?

 

ADAM

(puzzled)

What?

 

CRAZY JACK

 

Nothing. I’m stranded here like a rat on a deserted island. You’re the first person that I’ve seen this morning.

 

ADAM

 

How’d you get here?

 

CRAZY JACK

 

My van’s just down the road a piece.

 

ADAM

 

You been here long?

 

CRAZY JACK

 

You’re just full of questions ain’t you son.

 

ADAM

 

Sorry, but I haven’t seen anyone else this morning either.

 

CRAZY JACK

 

And you won’t see many...at least riding around. It’s the end, my boy.

 

ADAM

 

End of what?

CRAZY JACK

 

Oh hell. End of everything. Look around you. The rapture’s done took place and we are all that’s left.

 

ADAM

 

How do you know that?

 

CRAZY JACK

 

I just do and I'll tell you another thing...I'm getting tired of just sitting here.

CUT TO

Unannounced, CRAZY JACK picks up a large metal trash can and swings it wildly against one of the store’s glass doors. Hitting the glass a second time, it shatters and hundreds of small pieces fall to the ground.

ADAM

 

Damn Jack, what’s come over you?

 

CRAZY JACK

 

I need some provisions before I start my hike home. You better get some too if you know what’s good for you.

CUT TO

CLOSE UP: Adam puts a hand on Jack's shoulder.

ADAM

 

Jack, tell me what's going on.

JACK tosses ADAM's hand off his arm.

CRAZY JACK

 

Don't you lay a hand on me peckerwood.

CUT TO

CRAZY JACK exposes a small handgun from his pocket.

ADAM

 

Ok man, settle down.

ADAM moves back a few steps.

CRAZY JACK

(gristly)

These are desperate times and you'd better get tough quick, boy. You blink from this day on and somebody's going to run you through.

CUT TO

ADAM retreats to the horse nearby.

ADAM

 

You ARE as crazy as people say, Jack.

CUT TO

CRAZY JACK is cleaning the remaining glass from the metal door frame.

CRAZY JACK

(loudly)

Crazy like a fox. Them sumbitches are going to be coming this way. It won't take'em long to burn Atlanta down. They did it before...

CRAZY JACK walks inside the store.

CUT TO

CLOSE UP: CRAZY JACK’S face

CRAZY JACK (Cont.)

(to himself)

And they'll do it again.

FADE OUT

CUT TO


EXT. CITY OF DAWSONVILLE - NOON

ADAM rides slowly through the mostly vacant streets. An occasional group of three or four people stroll by him. Adam sees the open front doors of KEILTY BUILDING SUPPLY and makes his way over to the business.

CUT TO

INT. KEILTY BUILDING SUPPLY - FEW MINUTES LATER

SKIP KEILTY is a respected townsperson and Chairman of the City Council. He and his wife, Jeanie, live in a nicely appointed home on Lake Lanier. Though well-worn, SKIP still has some fight left in him; most of it left over from his Marine days in Vietnam.

SKIP

 

Hey there Adam. How'd you get into town?

 

ADAM

 

Old Blue brought me.

SKIP leans over the counter just enough to peer out the door.

SKIP

 

Well, you said you wanted to get something more economical to drive. And that hay-burner mode has always been pretty reliable.

ADAM chuckles.

ADAM

 

What's going on around here?

 

SKIP

 

If I was a betting man and I am...I'd say we've been attacked.

 

ADAM

(puzzled)

Attacked...by who?

 

SKIP

 

Hard to say.

SKIP removes some walnuts from a bag and places them on the counter.

SKIP (Cont.)

 

When I was in the service many moons ago, they had nuclear weapons that would knock out any unprotected electronics.

 

ADAM

(realization)

I've heard of that. It's called an Electro...Magnet...something.

 

SKIP

 

Actually an EMP or Electro Magnetic Pulse device is a small-scale weapon. For an operation this size it would need to be a High-Altitude E.M.P.

SKIP cracks a walnut with a hammer.

SKIP (Cont.)

 

They'd have to blow up a nuke or a lot of nukes in the upper atmosphere. Once it goes off, the circuitry of anything on the downhill side of it is fried. And once it's broke...

SKIP brings the hammer down breaking another nut.

SKIP (Cont.)

 

It's broke.

 

ADAM

 

Anyone heard about Atlanta?

 

SKIP

 

Naw, it's too early. I’m just glad we had that rain a few days back. As big as those smoke clouds up north are, I’d say a couple of commercial jets took a plunge into the mountain side. If it were any drier, we’d all be battling some pretty big forest fires about now. But I'll tell you buddy...If I was you, I'd get myself prepared for what's coming.

 

ADAM

(inquisitive look)

Like what?

 

SKIP

 

We're in better shape up here than most in Atlanta. It won't be long before the city folk start migrating up here...And when they come, it'll be in droves. Everything from food and water...those horses you got at your place, they're going to be like gold.

 

ADAM

 

Guess you're right.

SKIP

 

How are you set for ammo?

 

ADAM

 

I've got some shotgun shells for dove hunting and a couple of boxes of 7 Mag for my deer rifle.

SKIP reaches under the counter and places several boxes of ammunition on the counter.

SKIP

 

You better stock up on something a little stronger than birdshot.

 

ADAM

 

How much do I owe you?

 

SKIP

 

With all the business you've given me over the years, your money is no good here.

SKIP bags up the shells.

SKIP (Cont.)

 

But let me tell you this...if you need any building materials to fortify your place, you better get them soon. You still got that old wagon you pull around in the parades?

 

ADAM

 

Yeah, it's behind the barn.

 

SKIP

 

Bring it into town tomorrow and we'll fix you up. If I guess right, by the end of the week there won't be anything of value left here in town.

Slighty shaken by the statement, ADAM turns to leave the store. Urgency overtakes his thoughts again as he realizes he needs to get home.

ADAM

 

Thanks for the ammo Skip.

 

SKIP

(loudly)

Don't mention it bud...

(softly)

Godspeed.

CUT TO

EXT. ESTES' HORSE BARN - LATE AFTERNOON

HORSE BARN is a modest gambrel-style structure with eight stalls and a tack room. The tin roof is in need of a few repairs but it is freshly painted red with white trim accents.

ADAM arrives back from town. He is unsaddling Old Blue when SHELIA hears him outside.

SHELIA

 

I missed you. How did it go?

Kissing him softly.

ADAM

 

I didn't see too many people. That old man that runs the bait shop was at the Kountry Pantry.

 

SHELIA

 

Crazy Jack?

ADAM carries the saddle into the tack room and returns outside.

ADAM

 

The old fool tried to pull a gun on me.

 

SHELIA

(worried look)

Oh my God!

 

ADAM

 

I'm afraid things are going to get a whole lot worse before they get better. Let's go to the house and have supper. After we eat, I want us all to sit down and have a talk.

SHELIA puts her arm around ADAM and the two walk the hundred yards back to their home.


FADE OUT

CUT TO

INT. KITCHEN - DUSK

ESTES(4) are gathered around the kitchen table. A few flickering candles are placed in various locations around the room to provide adaquate lighting. After eating their meal prepared on the propane grill outside, SHELIA stands to take away the dishes.

SHELIA

 

Now that supper is over, we want to discuss something with you both.

 

DANNY

 

Dad, when is the power going to come back on?

 

ADAM

 

I don't know son. If what I hear is true, it could be a long time.

TOMMY

 

Who do you think did this?

 

ADAM

 

I don't know that either. Could have been terrorist or it could have been another country. Instead of me telling you what I don't know, let me give you the facts.

ADAM stands up and walks to the center of the room.

ADAM (cont.)

 

Our area was most likely hit with a nuclear bomb that was exploded in the atmosphere.

 

TOMMY

 

An EMP? I saw that on an episode of 24 last year.

 

ADAM

 

Yes. Now let me just talk, Tommy.

 

TOMMY

 

Yes sir.

 

ADAM

 

Everything in our day-to-day lives is going to be haywire for a while. How long I don't know. Anything with electronic circuitry is only good for a boat anchor now.

TOMMY and DANNY grin.

ADAM (cont.)

 

Our lives are going to have to change but the thing you need to remember is we're still a family.

SHELIA smiles lovingly and returns from the sink to take ADAM's hand.

ADAM (cont.)

 

There are going to be big obstacles to overcome and we've got a lot of work that needs to be done.

 

DANNY

 

What about starting school?

 

SHELIA

 

We'll just have to wing it as far as school is concerned.

DANNY grins brightly.

ADAM

 

Starting tomorrow, it's a new day. Our goal for now is going to be surviving the attack.

ADAM holds up a finger to squelch TOMMY's pending question.

ADAM (cont.)

 

We've got to have a fresh water supply. The pressure is almost gone from the county's water tanks and our creek isn't clean enough to drink from without filtration. Our food supply in the pantry and the freezer will last for a while but after it's gone, we'll have to hunt game and fish. And lastly, we need to fortify the house.

SHELIA turns toward ADAM with a concerned look.

SHELIA

 

Fortify the house?

ADAM

(looking into her eyes)

Baby, I'm not going to sugar coat this to you or the kids. There are hard times ahead of us. We have it better than some since there are a good stock of the necessities on hand. We've got plenty of firewood for heat and some cooking. We've got the horses for transportation and this roof over our heads. Before long, those very things may make us a target. The people that don't have or use up what they had are the ones we need to secure the house from.

 

DANNY

 

You mean we're not going to share with our neighbors? What about Mr. and Mrs. Douglas. They're old and are going to need some help.

 

ADAM

 

Danny, we're going to help everyone we can but if this goes on for a long time, people may come in here from other areas that want what we have. And if they do, we have to be ready to protect what's ours.

 

TOMMY

(with a large grin)

Survival of the fittest, huh?

 

ADAM

 

No son. It's our family's survival. I don't know what's coming but we have to be ready for anything.

FADE TO BLACK


(SOUNDTRACK - Merle Haggard's'Working Man Blues' in background)

CUT TO

(short scenes during music in background)

INT. TOMMY'S BEDROOM - DAY TWO EARLY MORNING

ADAM wakes up TOMMY.
CUT TO

INT. DANNY'S BEDROOM - A FEW MINUTES LATER

ADAM wakes up DANNY.
CUT TO

INT. KITCHEN - MINUTES LATER

SHELIA handing everyone orange juice and toast made from the grill. ADAM rushing his sons out the door as they both are still dressing.
CUT TO

EXT. HORSE BARN - FEW MINUTES LATER

ADAM, TOMMY and DANNY hitch up two horses to the flatbed wagon.
CUT TO

EXT. KEILTY BUILDING SUPPLY - MID MORNING

ADAM and TOMMY load the wagon with various wood and supplies. DANNY helps SKIP load the parts to a small-scale windmill kit onto the wagon.
CUT TO

EXT. ESTES RESIDENCE - LATER THAT DAY

ESTES(4) unload the material.


CUT TO

EXT. BACKYARD - LATER THAT AFTERNOON

(shot of shovel breaking the first ground)

ADAM starts to dig the well. BOYS(2) start installing operating wood shutters on windows.
CUT TO

EXT. ESTES RESIDENCE - DAY THREE

(shot of ADAM standing in a three-foot deep by four-foot wide hole)

ADAM stops to wipe the sweat from his face with a red bandana. BOYS(2) install the remaining shutters on the doors.
CUT TO

INT. VARIOUS ROOMS IN RESIDENCE - SAME TIME

SHELIA is going from room to room placing various electronic items and small appliances in garbage bags and trash cans.
CUT TO

EXT. ESTES RESIDENCE - DAY FOUR

(shot of hole and dirt pile nearby. ADAM is not visible. Only glimpses of a shovel are seen periodically when dirt is tossed out of hole.)

CUT TO

BOYS(2) push SHELIA'S s.u.v. and ADAM'S pickup out of the garage and down a small incline away from house.


CUT TO
INT. LIVING ROOM - SAME TIME

SHELIA is bringing in firewood and boiling water on the wood-burning stove top.
CUT TO
EXT. ESTES RESIDENCE - DAY FIVE

ADAM emerges on a ladder from the well with fresh mud on him. SHELIA is there to hug him and they kiss deeply. Her clothes are stained with the mud as they break their embrace.
CUT TO

ADAM, TOMMY and DANNY begin putting together the pieces of the small-scale windmill.
CUT TO


EXT. ESTES RESIDENCE FRONT YARD - SAME DAY

(Shot of the sun beginning to set)

FAMILY MEMBERS(4) stand arm-in-arm admiring the work that has been accomplished.

('Working Man Blues' finishes playing in the background)

FADE TO BLACK

CUT TO


EXT. HORSE BARN - AFTERNOON DAY SIX

SARAH TALLEY is exercising her horse in the round ring beside the barn. She boards the a animal at the ESTES' farm. TOMMY arrives as she is cooling the horse down.

TOMMY

 

Hey Talley, have a good ride?

 

SARAH

 

Yeah, Midnight is almost back to normal.

 

TOMMY

 

That was a bad wreck you two had over at the forest last month.

CUT TO

The pair walk the large black Quarter Horse into the barn. TOMMY picks up a brush and helps SARAH with the grooming.

SARAH

 

Well, his leg has healed nicely and a couple more weeks he should be one-hundred percent.

SARAH steps out of the stall and closes the gate behind her.

CUT TO

Walking towards the house, they both stop at the water barrel next to the windmill. TOMMY dips a cup of water and hands it to SARAH.

SARAH

 

Thanks. How's your family adjusting?

 

TOMMY

 

We're doing fine. How are you and your mom getting along?

 

SARAH

 

It's been a little bit of a struggle for us. She doesn't cope too well with change. Our food is holding out for now and our subdivision has a community water tank, so we're good.

 

TOMMY

 

Sort of cool not having to start school this week.

 

SARAH

 

Oh, I don't know...I kind of miss it. I was looking forward to being a freshman this year. I made the volleyball team, you know.

 

TOMMY

(Grinning with a sly smile)

I bet you look good in those little shorts.

 

SARAH

 

Guess I'll have to wear them when I come over next time.

CUT TO

EXT. ESTES RESIDENCE BACK DECK - SAME TIME

ADAM and SHELIA watch the budding romance from a distance.

ADAM

 

Young love is great, huh?

 

SHELIA

 

What, those two? I didn't know Sarah was interested in Tommy.

 

ADAM

 

Just give it time honey.

(Adam's attention is drawn to smoke coming from the tree line to the south.)

ADAM

(concerned look)

It's the Douglas' signal fire. Something's wrong.

CUT TO

ADAM runs down the steps into the back yard.

ADAM (cont.)

(loud voice)

Tommy, grab two horses and let's get over to the Douglas place!

CUT TO

ADAM and TOMMY quickly bridle and jump aboard the bareback horses. Riding out fast from the barn, SARAH makes her way onto the deck with SHELIA.

CUT TO

SHELIA

(concerned look)

I hope everything is alright.

CUT TO

EXT. PAVED TWO-LANED ROAD – A FEW MINUTES LATER

ADAM and TOMMY gallop hard towards the DOUGLAS HOME.

CUT TO

EXT. DOUGLAS HOME – TEN MINUTES LATER

ADAM and TOMMY bring their mounts to a sliding stop at the steps of the front porch. The white single-level home is older but well kempt. IRENE meets the riders at the open front door.

IRENE

(worried look)

It’s Jasper. He’s taken a nasty fall.

CUT TO

INT. DOUGLAS HOME BATHROOM – IMMEDIATELY AFTER

ADAM rushes into the bathroom to find JASPER stretched over the top of a closed toilet.

ADAM

 

Jasper, where are you hurt?

 

JASPER

 

Mostly in my pride area.

ADAM smiles with a sigh of relief, as IRENE and TOMMY watch from the open door.

JASPER (cont.)

 

Hell, you know Irene was just looking for an excuse to light that signal fire you set up for us the other day.

ADAM leans down and puts a hand on JASER’S shoulder.

ADAM

(in a whispering voice)

Can you get up?

 

JASPER

 

I’m not sure.

Slowly ADAM lifts JASPER off the toilet and places the seventy-seven year old's arm around his shoulder. JASPER places his weight on his right leg to find severe pain in his foot.

JASPER

(wincing)

My ankle.

CUT TO

INT. DOUGLAS HOME LIVING ROOM – MINUTE LATER

ADAM helps JASPER to the living room. The elderly man lies stretched out on the sofa. After removing his shoe and sock, ADAM examines the swollen ankle.

ADAM

 

Doesn’t seem to be broken. It’s swelled a little. Tommy, go get some ice in a towel.

 

JASPER

 

It’s nothing. Just an old man that can’t stand up anymore.

 

IRENE

 

You hush that kind of talk. Lay there and rest.

TOMMY brings the ice and stays with JASPER as IRENE and ADAM walk to the kitchen.

CUT TO

INT. DOUGLAS HOME KITCHEN – MINUTE LATER

IRENE

 

I hated to bother you but I didn’t know if he was hurt badly or not.

 

ADAM

 

You did the right thing. He seems a little groggy.

 

IRENE

 

We’ve run out of his medication and he’s having trouble with his balance.

 

ADAM

 

Do you want me to go to town and see if I can get some more? I’m not sure how the pharmacy stock will be after a week but I can try.

 

IRENE

 

That’s sweet of you ADAM. I’ll get you the empty bottle. I just wish I knew where Charlie was. I hope he’s alright.

 

ADAM

 

Don’t worry, I'm sure Charlie will be here before long. Getting to Dawsonville from Atlanta probably isn’t an easy job at the moment but he'll come.

 

IRENE

(smiling slightly)

My son is a smart one. I was so proud when he got that job with IBM. I just wish he had been working around here now with all this going on.

 

ADAM

 

How’s your food holding out?

 

IRENE

 

Oh lord, we’re fine. I got plenty of food canned from the summer and Danny is keeping us water drawn up from the well. You don’t worry about us. Let me get you that pill bottle.

CUT TO

EXT. DOUGLAS HOME FRONT YARD – TEN MINUTES LATER

IRENE

 

Y’all be careful and don’t worry about us old folks. We been making it around here for forty years...We’re tough old birds.

TOMMY AND ADAM mount their horses to leave.

ADAM

 

You just keep that fifty-five gallon drum full of oil rags like I showed you. Fire it up if you run into trouble.

 

IRENE

 

I know, I know and if it’s at night, fire off the shotgun in three round blasts.

 

ADAM

 

That’s right. Help is only a few shotgun shells away. Take care Irene.

Waving good bye, the two turn their respective mounts and leave.

CUT TO

EXT. PAVED ROAD TOWARDS HOME – FEW MINUTES LATER

Walking the horses, father and son have a conversation about the old couple.

TOMMY

 

Think they’ll be o.k. dad?

 

ADAM

 

You heard Ms. Irene didn’t you? They’re tough old birds.

 

TOMMY

 

I know but Mr. Douglas didn’t look so good.

 

ADAM

 

I ever tell you about when they moved up here to Dawson County from Atlanta?

 

TOMMY

 

I know they’ve been up here a long time.

 

ADAM

 

Back in the early seventies, let’s just say it was pretty white up in these parts. There weren’t any African-Americans living in this county and most people liked it that way. Jasper wanted to farm some land and had made a pretty good living selling real estate down in Atlanta. When he bought that house and thirty-five acres, it caused a pretty big stir.

 

TOMMY

 

So did people try to run him out?

 

ADAM

 

Oh, they tried but I remember my daddy telling me about the night a bunch of men surrounded his house. They were all pretty drunk and threatened to burn him out if he didn’t move. Jasper came out onto that front porch and stood there, big as you please, just daring them to come make him move. One by one, they’d make their way up on the porch and he just kept throwing them off the steps. Finally, they figured he was serious and left him alone. I guess he showed them he had just as much right as they did to live where he wanted.

 

TOMMY

 

How did Grandpa know about that story?

CUT TO

(shot of riders from the rear, picking up the pace to a trot)

ADAM

 

Because he was one of the men Tommy.

FADE OUT


CUT TO


EXT. CITY OF DAWSONVILLE – LATE MORNING DAY SEVEN

ADAM and SHELIA ride two horses into town hoping to get JASPER’S pills. They pull up their mounts and tie them in front of the RIDGETOP PHARAMCY and walk inside.

CUT TO


INT. RIDGETOP PHARMACY – A MINUTE LATER
The ESTES (2) notice most merchandise is gone from the store and the shelves are virtually empty.

GIRL BEHIND COUNTER

 

Can I help you?

ADAM walks over to counter, while SHELIA peruses the scant merchandise.

ADAM

 

I was wondering if I could get some of these pills for Jasper Douglas. I’d like to get as many as possible.

With a glum look on her face, the GIRL BEHIND COUNTER takes the bottle and walks back towards the pharmacy counter in the rear. ADAM finds SHELIA and they take a few minutes to wander through the dimly-lit store.

CUT TO


(shot of PHARMACIST walking up the isle towards the ESTES (2)

PHARMACIST

 

Hello. Is Mr. Douglas doing alright?

 

ADAM

 

He’s been out of his pills now for a few days. Irene says he’s a bit disorientated and groggy.

 

PHARMACIST

 

I was afraid of that.

The PHARMACIST holds up the brown pill bottle for ADAM to see.

PHARMACIST (cont.)

 

He has been prescribed Apresoline for his hypertension. It should be taken daily but if he misses it for more than a week, it could be life-threatening. I’m sorry to say, but we just don’t have any more stock of the drug.

 

SHELIA

 

Do you have a generic or a substitute?

 

PHARMACIST

 

I do have a limited supply of a drug that might work and under the circumstances it’s the best I can do. Seems that everyone is beginning to be in dire need.

 

ADAM

 

Yeah and we’re only a week into this.

 

PHARMACIST

 

My greatest fear is we won’t be seeing more shipments anytime soon. And it may get worse. Somebody tried to break into the pharmacy last night. The back door was pried off its hinges this morning when I got here. The inner security bars were the only thing that stopped them.

 

ADAM

 

Jasper would appreciate anything you can do for him, I’m sure.

 

PHARMACIST

 

I’ll get the medication and bring it up front in a few minutes.

CUT TO


EXT. STREETS OF DAWSONVILLE – A SHORT TIME LATER

A CROWD gathers in front of CITY HALL. ADAM and SHELIA take their horses by the reins and lead them over to see what the commotion is all about.


CUT TO

EXT. CITY HALL – MOMENTS LATER

Approximately one-hundred people of various ages are standing in a semi-circle around the front entrnace. The MAYOR is atop the concrete steps of the building. He is separated from the CROWD by four sheriff’s deputies.

CROWD MALE 1

(shouting as to be heard over others)

Where’s the food and water you promised us!

 

CROWD FEMALE 1

 

My little girl need medicine and the pharmacy is all out!

Mayor holds both his hands in the air, waving them to try and get the CROWD to quiet down.

MAYOR

(shouting over the CROWD)

Listen folks…LISTEN!

CROWD begins to quiet their murmurings slightly.

MAYOR (cont.)

 

I hopefully have answers to all your questions. Just give me a chance here. I have gotten together with some local farmers and we’ve put together a food bank that we'll be distributing from very soon. The two city water tanks are almost full to capacity and our utility crews are making modifications now to be able to give out the water by tomorrow. All we ask is that you bear with us.

CROWD begins to talk loudly amongst themselves again.

CROWD MALE 2

(shouting above the others)

Promises ain’t worth a hoot in hell. We need food now!

The deputies begin to have a concerned look and covertly move their hands to their sidearms.

CUT TO

ADAM places his two pinky fingers in his mouth and whistles loudly. CROWD goes virtually silent for a moment.

ADAM

 

Folks, I’m sure the mayor and his staff are doing everything they can. We’re all going to have to be patient and stretch what we have as far as we can for now. It’s not going to be easy but we can all work together and get through this.

A familiar voice to ADAM chimes in from somewhere in the crowd.

BOBBY JOHNSON

 

Well, well, look who’s presence has graced our fine town folks. The man that tells us to be patient and work together, while he sits out at his farm with all the food, water and transportation he needs.

CUT TO

ADAM scans the faces and sees BOBBY amidst the gathering to his right.

BOBBY (cont.)

 

Kind of easy to be patient when you’re comfortable but what about the ones of us that don’t have anything to eat right now.

ADAM aims his comment in BOBBY’S direction. The ire that has been between the pair for as long he can remember comes boiling out with the words.

ADAM

 

You, as well as anyone, know I’ve worked for what I have. If you’d taken better care of what you had, you wouldn’t be here in this shape.

CUT TO

SHELIA takes ADAM’S hand in such a way as to say, 'let's go'. Acknowledging the signal, the ESTES (2) turn with their horses to leave.

CUT TO

Pushing his way through the masses, BOBBY gets in the last word.

BOBBY

 

That’s right...run back to your easy chair while we sit here and starve.

CUT TO

EXT. STREETS OF DAWSONVILLE - MOMENTS LATER

The sound of BOBBY’S tirade fades in the distance as the husband and wife lead their animals down the street.

SHELIA

 

Bobby was always one for the dramatic.

 

ADAM

 

Yeah, I guess so.

(grinning)

ADAM (cont.)

 

Or it could be he’s still pissed at me after all these years for stealing you away from him.

SHELIA

(giggling)

Oh baby, you didn’t steal me...I came willingly.

(SOUNDTRACK - Delta Spirit’s ‘Devil Knows You’re Dead’ begins to play in background)

ZOOM OUT SLOWLY: (shot of ADAM and SHELIA headed out of town. In the distance, the crowd is starting to disperse from CITY HALL. Clouds are rolling in from the southern sky, partly shielding the sun’s rays.)

ZOOM IN: On Clouds

FADE TO BLACK

(‘Devil Knows You’re Dead' ends playing in background)


CUT TO

EXT. DOUGLAS HOME - LATER THAT AFTERNOON

ADAM knocks on front door as SHELIA stands beside him.

A curtain in the door window is pulled back slightly revealing the face of CHARLIE DOUGLAS, JASPER and IRENE's adopted son. CHARLIE opens the door to greet the visitors.

ADAM

 

Charlie, good to see you man.

The three shake hands.

CHARLIE is in his late twenties, clean-cut and dressed in jeans and a blue polo shirt.

ADAM (cont.)

 

We brought some medication for your dad from town.

ADAM hands CHARLIE the pill bottle as the young man steps out onto the porch and closes the front door behind him.

CHARLIE

 

Mom and dad are resting.

CHARLIE walks down the front porch steps with the ESTES(2)trailing behind him. He looks down at the pill bottle and holds it up.

CHARLIE (cont.)

 

Thank you for getting this. I got here right after you and Tommy left yesterday. Dad is feeling rough, so I hope these help.

CUT TO

The trio walk towards the big oak tree in the yard as they talk.

SHELIA

 

I guess you got stuck in Atlanta.

 

CHARLIE

 

I wouldn't say stuck as much as hesitant. Last Saturday was a strange day in Atlanta. Nothing was moving downtown and the streets were filled with people just walking around in a daze.

 

ADAM

 

I bet it was an erie thing.

 

CHARLIE

 

It was like a scene right out of a science-fiction movie. From my high-rise I could see cars and buses sitting everywhere. Even the sky was clear with no planes circling around Hartsfield as usual.

(Charlies face tenses slightly)

CHARLIE (cont.)

 

But it didn't take long for things to turn ugly. By Sunday morning there was mass looting and several fires had broken out. I went over to the IBM Tower but security wasn't letting anyone inside.

 

SHELIA

 

When did you start heading north?

 

CHARLIE

 

I figured mom and dad would need me and besides, I was almost out of food and water. They had declared 'martial law' in the city, so I took my mountain bike and left on Tuesday while I still could get out. I made it as far as Alpharetta before I was jumped by a gang of men. They took my backpack and bike, then just laughed at me as they left.

 

SHELIA

 

They didn't hurt you, did they?

 

CHARLIE

 

No, because I didn't resist. But I saw plenty that did. There were beaten and battered people all over the place. By the time I reached Cumming, most all of the businesses were pretty well ransacked. I'm ashamed to say it but I took a bicycle from a house and kept going.

 

ADAM

 

These are desperate times Charlie.

CHARLIE

 

I know. It wouldn't suprise me if the 'locust' didn't get here before long.

 

ADAM

 

The 'locust'?

 

CHARLIE

 

That's what most people I talked to on the way up are calling them. Packs of people that come in and take what they need, no matter the human cost and then move on. The gangs are growing in number and getting more violent every day.

 

SHELIA

 

I guess desperation brings out the worst in some.

 

ADAM

 

Speaking of which, we need to get home and check on the boys. I feel alot better about your parents now that you are here with them.

 

CHARLIE

 

Thanks for looking out for them until I got here.

ADAM and CHARLIE shake hands again and SHELIA gives CHARLIE a hug goodbye.

CUT TO

(shot of ESTES(2) leaving on the horse towards the road.

FADE TO BLACK


FADE IN


EXT. CUMMING GEORGIA BP STATION - MORNING DAY EIGHT

Four 1950's model pickup trucks pull into the gas station adjacent to the GA 400 expressway. Screeching to a halt beside the store, several unkempt-looking men begin to jump out of the vechicles.

SLASH is the driver of one of the trucks and the leader of the gang. He is a large, muscular Samoan with many tattos visible. He barks orders while walking towards the front door of the battered convenience store.

SLASH

 

Get your asses in gear and syphon us up some gas. I'll see if there's any food left in here.

CUT TO

INT. BP STATION - A MOMENT LATER

SLASH steps over debris that was left from previous looters. Finding nothing of value, he exits store.

CUT TO

EXT. BP STATION - MOMENTS LATER

(SLASH'S attention is drawn to the four-lane highway adjacent to the gas station. An older model car is approaching at a slow pace from the east, making its way around the newer models stranded in its path.)

SLASH

(yelling towards gang members)

There's one coming, go get it!

Several of the GANG break off from the underground tank syphoning and grab various type weapons from the old trucks. Running into the roadway, they meet the car as it slows at their human roadblock.

PAN TO

GANG MEMBER 1

(holding up his hand)

STOP THE CAR!.

An elderly couple in their 1958 Plymouth stop about twenty-feet from the line of men in their path. The OLD MAN IN CAR puts the gear shift in park.

The GANG approaches the car and surrounds it. SLASH walks over and begins to inspect the new find.

SLASH

 

Nice ride you've got here grandpa. You've took real good care of her.

Circling around to the front of the Plymouth, SLASH opens the hood.

SLASH (cont.)

 

What's she got inside her?

Peering around the open hood, SLASH looks at the OLD MAN IN CAR behind the wheel.

SLASH (cont.)

 

How much you want for her gramps?

 

OLD MAN IN CAR

(rolling down the window about an inch.)

It's not for sale. Can I please go? I need to get my wife to the hospital, she's very sick.

 

SLASH

 

Oh, you can go but you'll be walking the rest of the way. Now get out of my new ride.

OLD MAN IN CAR rolls the window back up and the frightened couple slide towards each other on the bench seat inside.

SLASH (cont.)

 

If I have to come in after you gramps, you're going to need the hospital too.

OLD MAN IN CAR reaches for the gearshift and looks behind him in the mirror.

SLASH smashes the driver's window with his gloved-covered fist. He drags the OLD MAN IN CAR out of the window before he has a chance to put the Plymouth in reverse.

SLASH places a smashing blow across the OLD MAN'S face, knocking him to the ground.

SLASH

(disgusted tone)

I warned you.

SLASH turns his back to the OLD MAN.


(SOUNDTRACK - Johnny Cash's 'God's Gonna Cut You Down' starts playing in the background)

SLASH (cont.)

(towards GANG MEMBERS)

Get grandma out of there and let's go.

OLD MAN stands up and makes a feeble move towards SLASH.

SLASH, in one fluid-motion, wheels around and produces a semi-automatic handgun. He fires it twice into the OLD MAN'S chest.

SLASH

 

Dumb shit.

The GANG MEMBERS remove the wife from the vehicle and she kneels down crying over her now-dead husband a few feet away.

SLASH takes the handgun and puts a round in the back of her head. She falls in a heap over her husband's body.

SLASH

(coldly)

Go join him lady.

SLASH and four of his GANG slide into the seats of the Plymouth. They pull the car over to the old pickup trucks as the rest are loading the plastic containers of fuel.

SLASH

(from the driver's seat)

Let's get the hell out of here.

CUT TO

One-by-one the vehicles move out of the BP STATION and get back on GA 400 headed north.

ZOOM OUT: Aerial View Over Station With The GANG'S Vehicles Single-File Entering The Expressway.

(shot continues to follow vehicles up the expressway)

ZOOM IN QUICKLY: To SLASH'S Profile In The Plymouth's Driver-Side Window.

('God's Gonna Cut You Down' finishes abruptly)

FADE OUT

CUT TO

EXT. ESTES HOUSE BARN - NOON

ADAM, SHELIA & DANNY are cleaning stalls.

DANNY

 

Why doesn't Tommy have to help with the barn chores today?

 

ADAM

 

He had errands to run.

 

DANNY

(sarcastic)

What...With Sarah over at the lake?

SHELIA

 

He's going to muck all the stalls tomorrow, young man. You just mind your own business.

 

DANNY

(under his breath)

It's still not fair.

ADAM hears a vehicle coming up the gravel driveway. Dropping his muck rake, he and SHELIA trot up to the house to investigate.

CUT TO

EXT. ESTES FRONT YARD - MOMENTS LATER

Arriving in the front yard the ESTES(2) see SHERIFF BROGAN and BOBBY JOHNSON stading in front of a 1930's model flatbed truck.

ADAM

 

Hello Sheriff. I see you found some transportation.

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

Yeah...it's one of the few in town.

 

BOBBY

 

Some of us aren't as fortunate as you.

 

ADAM

(ignoring BOBBY'S comment)

What brings you out our way?

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

We're driving around trying to alert everyone we can. The Town Council has placed Dawsonville under 'martial law'. Everyone needs to gather in town to group our forces.

 

SHELIA

 

Strength in numbers, Sheriff?.

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

Something like that.

 

ADAM

 

So what is Bobby doing with you?

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

The Council has allowed the Sheriff's Department to hire some temporary deputies during this situation. Bobby is one of them.

 

ADAM

(to himself)

Oh great.

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

So, what we're asking is to you to gather all the supplies you have and place them on the flatbed. We'll transport it back to town and since you have horse transportation, we'll meet you back there later. Also, once you're settled in, our deputies will need to commendere your horses to patrol with.

 

ADAM

 

Did you say, "asking"?.

(without giving the sheriff a chance to answer)

ADAM (cont.)

 

Did Skip vote for this?

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

(pausing)

Uh no, He was the only one to vote against it.

 

SHELIA

 

So it's a voluntary request?

 

BOBBY

 

Why don't you two just face it...If we don't stick together as a town we won't survive.

 

ADAM

(exploding at BOBBY)

Or the "HAVE NOTS" won't survive...isn't that it? Bobby, I've had just about enough of your liberal "gimme" attitude. You haven't worked a month in the last two years. If it hadn't have been for what your daddy left you when he died, you wouldn't have a pot to piss in.

 

BOBBY

 

Now you hold on....

 

ADAM

(pointing his finger at BOBBY)

You shut up and listen. You're standing on our property here. Property we worked long and hard to buy. I offered you work before because I felt sorry for you when Mr. Johnson passed away. But let's just face it, you're too damn sorry and lazy...

SHELIA

 

Adam...

 

ADAM

 

It's got to be said Shelia. Your daddy was a fine man Bobby. He's probably rolling in his grave right now with the way you turned out...

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

Mr. Estes...

 

ADAM

 

I'm not finished Sheriff. As far as me and my family goes, we'll help in any way we can, but you and your "deputy" can forget taking ANY of my property..."martial law" or not.

ADAM turns away and walks toward the house as SHELIA stands with the two men.

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

Mrs. Estes, we are handicapped on giving the help we need to provide the community without transportation. Your horses will go a long way in filling that need.

 

BOBBY

 

Shelia, you've got to reason with him. By putting all we have together everyone benefits. It's just the way it's going to be.

Before SHELIA can respond, ADAM walks out of the open garage door, pump-shotgun in hand.

BOBBY immediately retreats to the back of the flatbed truck, while the sheriff stands his ground.

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

There's no need for that Mr. Estes.

 

SHELIA

(Turning around and seeing ADAM approaching)

ADAM!

ADAM

 

Sheriff, I want you and that 'two-bit' deputy off my property.

(cycling a shell into the chamber)

ADAM (cont.)

 

Unlike yours Sheriff, THIS is not a voluntary request.

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

(calmly turns around and climbs into the driver's seat)

You're making a big mistake Adam.

Bobby opens the passenger door of the truck and quickly hops inside.

ADAM

(loud enough for the Sheriff to hear)

It's my mistake to make.

As the flatbed truck backs up and turns around in the driveway, SHELIA is struck by how ADAM has changed his demeanor. From the calm, collected husband into a fierce warrior, ready to fight for what he thought was right.

CUT TO

SHELIA puts her arms around ADAM and squeezes him tightly.

ZOOM IN: Tight Shot Of The ESTES(2)

ADAM

 

Everything's going to be alright.

 

SHELIA

 

I know baby.

FADE OUT


(SOUNDTRACK - Kelly Willis' 'River of Love' starts playing in the background)

CUT TO

EXT. LAKE LANIER - EARLY AFTERNOON

TOMMY and SARAH, clad in bathing suits splashing around in the water and swimming.

CUT TO

TOMMY and SARAH, jumping off a floating platform into the LAKE.

CUT TO

TOMMY and SARAH, walking out of the water onto the beach, where a blanket is spread out.

('River of Love' ends in the background as the pair collapse on the blanket.)

TOMMY

 

You having fun?

 

SARAH

 

Yeah, a picnic was a great idea...glad I had it.

 

TOMMY

 

I thought it was my idea?

 

SARAH

 

What...ever

They both roll over and open the backpack. TOMMY takes out some dried fruit and a quart jar of water to share.

SARAH (cont.)

 

Tommy, what do you think is going to happen around here?

 

TOMMY

 

I don't know. My dad says it will take a while for things to get back to normal.

 

SARAH

 

Some say it won't ever be like it used to be.

(Scooting in closer to SARAH)

TOMMY

(looking deeply into SARAH'S eyes)

Well, we're still here.

The two embrace and kiss gently.

FADE OUT

CUT TO

INT. DAWSONVILLE MAYOR'S OFFICE - SAME TIME

SHERIFF BROGAN enters the MAYOR'S office and removes his hat.

MAYOR

 

So, how did you do?

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

Not worth a damn. Most folks aren't buying into this "one for all and all for one" bit. Hell, Adam Estes ran me off his place with a shotgun.

 

MAYOR

 

We'll just have to do it without all of them then. Starting tonight, we bottle up the downtown area. No one in or out after dusk. Take your deputies and station them far enough apart to cover all the main roads.

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

You sure you want to do that Mayor?

 

MAYOR

 

I'm getting reports from surrounding areas that things are getting pretty tense everywhere. I can't take any chances of those locusts swooping in and taking all we have.

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

(turning to leave)

10-4.

CUT TO

EXT. LAKE LANIER TREE LINE OFF BEACH - SHORT TIME LATER

TOMMY

 

We better start heading back.

The pair of smiling teens mount up on the two horses, then pick up the trail towards the main road.

CUT TO

EXT. CROSSROADS AT GA 400 - HALF HOUR LATER

Easing the horses across the four-laned expressway, TOMMY and SARAH pull up on their reins as they cross over the highway. An uncommon sight of several vintage vehicles coming towards them on the road spurs their curosity.

TOMMY

 

Now there is something I haven't seen lately.

 

SARAH

 

I thought cars were dead after the EMP thing?

 

TOMMY

 

Mr. Keilty said old cars that didn't have electronic ignition would still run.

The caravan slows as they see the horses and the riders. The vehicles turn at the CROSSROADS and stop just short of the teens.

CUT TO

SLASH and some of the GANG MEMBERS(4)exit and walk over to the shoulder.

SLASH

 

What are you kids up to?

Wary of the strangers, both back their horses up a few steps to get more distance between them and the men.

TOMMY

 

We're just out for a ride.

 

SLASH

 

Are you kin or is this a little romantice journey?

GANG MEMBER 2

 

In these parts it maybe both.

(SLASH and GANG MEMBERS (4) laugh outloud)

TOMMY

 

We don't want any trouble...we're just headed home.

 

SLASH

 

We don't want any trouble either. Why don't you both just step down off those horses and let's talk a minute.

CUT TO

TOMMY turns his head from side-to-side. His horse spooks and jumps forward a bit as GANG MEMBER 3 approaches from the rear.

Leaning forward and snatching the reins, TOMMY'S horse let's out a buck-kick and connects with GANG MEMBER 3, squarely in his chest. This sends the suprised man rolling into the ditch, winded from the contact.

SLASH

(removing the handgun from his pants)

Now that will be enough of that.

TOMMY looks toward SARAH with a defeated look and they both dismount. GANG MEMBERS (2) grab TOMMY from behind and hold him. Struggling with the men to no avail, he watches as SLASH picks SARAH up over his shoulder and begins to carry her towards the Plymouth. Kicking and screaming, she is no match for the hulk of a man that has her firmly in his grasp.

TOMMY

(yelling)

SARAH!

GANG MEMBER 4 gives TOMMY a sharp shot to the stomach, doubling him over as he gasps for breath.

SARAH'S cries and screams continue as she is shoved into the large back seat of the four-door car.

CUT TO

CLOSE UP: TOMMY'S Face

A tear begins to trickle down TOMMY'S cheek as he no longer hears the cries of help from the car. TOMMY closes his eyes and bows his head.

CUT TO

After several minutes, TOMMY hears footsteps approaching. He lifts his head and sees the large, tattoed man walking in his direction. The GANG MEMBERS(2) lift TOMMY to his feet.

SLASH

(now standing at arm's-length from TOMMY)

She was good, son. I think she was a virgin too. Must have been your sister after all.

 

TOMMY

 

You bastard...

SLASH

 

No, I had a father...he used to beat the shit out of me when he got drunk...which was most of the time. Guess that's why I had to eventually kill him. Have you got any other women in this town a little more experienced?

 

TOMMY

(spitefully)

You just let me go and I'LL KILL YOU!

 

SLASH

 

Oh, I highly doubt that, junior. Anyway, I don't have time to waste on you anymore. Say good night.

SLASH rears back and catches TOMMY under the chin with a savage uppercut. The hard, swift blow renders him unconscious. The GANG MEMBERS (2) release their grip and the teen falls helplessly to the ground.

SLASH

 

C'mon. I think we can have some fun in this town tonight.

The men turn and leave the benumbed young man on the edge of the roadway.

GANG MEMEBER 1 pulls the barely conscious SARAH from the back seat of the Plymouth and tosses her on the pavement beside the car.

As the vehicles pull away, SARAH tries to pull her half-clothed body up but collapses again whimpering.

SARAH

(lifting her head off the hot pavement of the roadway and looking toward the ditch)

Tommy....

FADE TO BLACK


(SOUNDTRACK - Gary Allan's 'Life Ain't Always Beautiful' playing in back ground)

FADE IN

EXT. GA. 400 CROSSROADS - TEN MINUTES LATER

TOMMY awakes from the beating. He slowly sits up trying to remember what took place just moments ago.

PAN TO

SARAH lying on the pavement fifteen yards from him.

CUT TO

TOMMY rises to his feet quickly and runs to SARAH, stopping short as she slowly lifts her head. He kneels down and extends his hand to her.

ZOOM IN: SARAH Taking TOMMY's Hand.

CUT TO

SARAH rises slowy leaning on TOMMY for balance. She pauses to adjust her torn clothes. The two walk slowly back to the horses grazing in the ditch.

TOMMY

 

Are you OK to ride?

SARAH nods.

TOMMY helps lift her into the saddle. He takes the reins of both animals and begins to walk them down the road towards home.

ZOOM OUT: Overhead Shot Of The Teens.

The late afternoon sun is starting to set in the tops of the tree line. The pair continue on, fading into the distance.

('Life Ain't Always Beautiful' ends)

FADE TO BLACK

FADE IN

EXT. BASTROP FARM -JUST AFTER NIGHTFALL

Small cabin is visible only by the glimmer of an oil-lamp flickering in the main room's window.

(crickets are chirping loudly outside)

CUT TO

Vehicles can be heard approaching down a crooked, tree lined dirt road. As the Plymouth and the trucks near the cabin, they fan out and come to a stop, side-by-side. The headlights of all the vehicles brighty illuminate the rustic log structure.

(Car doors open and then close)

CUT TO

INT. BASTROP CABIN - SAME TIME

JIMMY BASTROP is a chain-smoker in his mid-sixties that lives alone. He is a mechanic by trade but makes moonshine to supplement his sparse income.

JIMMY

(runs to the closed window and yells)

Who the hell is out there?

JIMMY grabs a nearby shotgun, breeches the double-barrel to make sure it's loaded and then returns to the window.

JIMMY

(yelling through the closed window)

Is that you Brogan?

CUT TO

EXT. BASTROP CABIN - SAME TIME

SLASH

 

Calm down you old coot. We're here for some liquor.

CUT TO

(shot of front porch)

JIMMY opens the front door cautiously and steps onto the rickety porch, elevated two steps off ground-level, still holding the shotgun.

JIMMY

(loudly)

Where's you get them trucks?

CUT TO

(SLASH walks towards the porch slowly, ignoring the question)

SLASH

 

I hear in town you got the best corn liquor in these parts. Me and my men have come for a sample.

JIMMY

(coming down off porch to meet SLASH face-to-face)

I might. You boys ain't from around here, are you?

 

SLASH

 

Never mind where we're from. Where's the booze?

CUT TO

INT. BASTROP BARN ADJACENT TO CABIN - FEW MINUTES LATER

SLASH's GANG are scattered around the interior of the barn, swilling quart jars of clear liquid. JIMMY and SLASH are talking in the rear of the structure beside the still.

JIMMY

 

So how is it down in Atlanta?

 

SLASH

 

It's pretty chewed up.

 

JIMMY

 

You headed north?

 

SLASH

(taking a drink from a pint jar)

I think for now I like it right here. Me and my boys are looking to stay a while and we need some accomodations.

 

JIMMY

 

I ain't got much room here.

SLASH

 

Hell, I'm not talking about your place old man. I want some fancy place that I can be comfortable in. Who's got the best place in town?

 

JIMMY

 

Oh, I don't know. There's a lot of money down on the lakefront.

 

SLASH

 

If I was wanting to stay a while and make it a point that I was in charge, who would I have to take the power from?

(JIMMY scratches his faded red hair and a smile comes across the old man's face)

JIMMY

 

I reckon the most powerful man in town would be Skip Keilty.

(SLASH begins to look interested)

JIMMY (cont.)

 

And he's got a big place down on the lake.

 

SLASH

 

Sounds promising. Tell me some more...

JIMMY continues to fill SLASH in on SKIP'S specifics.


FADE OUT


CUT TO

INT. FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH - MORNING DAY NINE

Finely appointed building with large cathedral celings.

Before services start people are walking around conversing with one another. SKIP is talking to ADAM in the corner of the foyer.

SKIP

 

Oh my God...they did what?

 

ADAM

 

They beat Tommy and then the big tattoed-one raped Sarah right there on the highway.

 

SKIP

 

How's the girl doing?

 

ADAM

 

Well, pretty shaken up of course, but she's holding her own. Tommy and I took her home last night and he went over to be with her this morning.

 

SKIP

 

That's good. I figured we'd have trouble from outsiders but this is quicker than I expected.

 

ADAM

 

Tommy said that they had some trucks and a old car. I rode over to the sheriff's office before church and told Brogan about it. He said he'd look into it.

SKIP

(sarcastically)

Yeah, I bet he will...I told the mayor we needed to bottle the town up and fortify the roads but all he's interested in is gathering up everybody's supplies. His 'martial law' decree is nothing more than a power grab on all the town's people. I'll announce a special town meeting this afternoon and see what we can do about beefing up security.

 

ADAM

 

Always the Marine.

 

SKIP

 

Oorah.

The two make their way into the sanctuary as services are about to begin. The sunlight is beaming through the many stain-glass windows, providing ample light inside.

CUT TO

INT. FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH SANCTUARY - HALF HOUR LATER

The minister is beginning his sermon when the large, double doors in the back of the sanctuary are swung open by GANG MEMBERS (2).

SLASH walks down the isle between the many pews and stops about the halfway point. Some of the parishoners appear worried by the suprise appearance and begin to stand.

SLASH

 

Keep your seats everyone. We just want to see what the inside of a fine church like yours looks like.

CUT TO

ADAM recognizes the leader from the description TOMMY shared with him last evening. As he starts to stand, SKIP sitting next to him, grabs his forearm.

SKIP

(in a hushed tone)

Not here...not now.

CUT TO

SLASH

(loudly)

I am in search of Mr. Skip Keilty. I hear if you want to be something in this podunk town, he's the man to see.

For a brief moment, nobody moves or says a word.

SLASH

 

Alright, that was my nice-asking voice.

(removing the handgun from his waistband)

SLASH (cont.)

 

Next time it won't be so nice.

CUT TO

With a stern look from ADAM as to say no, SKIP stands to his feet.

CUT TO

SLASH

 

Now we're getting somewhere.

SLASH makes a motion to GANG MEMBER 4 and the he moves to retreive SKIP.

CUT TO

SKIP

(whispers to ADAM)

Tell Jeanie not to worry.

ADAM stands up but remains in the pew.

ADAM

 

Where are you taking him?

 

SLASH

 

None of your godda....(sarcastically) oh wait, I'm in a church.

(points the handgun at ADAM)

SLASH (cont.)

 

Anywhere I damn well please...now sit your ass down.

With a look of disgust, ADAM obeys.

CUT TO

SLASH makes his way up on the platform to address the congregation.

SLASH

 

Now here's the way it's going to be. You are going to be my little messengers. Tell everyone around here that I'm in charge of this town now. I know you've got a sheriff and some deputies hiding around here somewhere but we have plenty of guns and ammo if they give us any trouble.

(SLASH waves his handgun around, using it as a pointer)

SLASH (cont.)

 

Now Mr. Keilty back there is coming with us. You see he's a valuable asset because if anybody tries anything...well, he's going to get dead.

An older CHURCH DEACON on the front row slowly stands to his feet.

CHURCH DEACON

(pointing his finger at SLASH)

You piece of scum. What gives you the right to bring your trash up here to our back yard. In my day, we'd run you out of town...guns or no guns.

CUT TO

CLOSE UP: SLASH'S Face

SLASH

 

Well this ain't "your day".

RETURN TO

SLASH points the pistol towards the front row and places a shot in the CHURCH DEACON'S chest. Crumpling to the floor, the old man is dead before he hit the carpet.

SLASH hops down from the platform and walks back up the isle to his awaiting men and SKIP.

SLASH

 

Now that goes to show what stupid will get you.

SLASH turns to address the crowd before exiting.

SLASH (cont.)

(Speaking in a mocking ministerial voice as he exits)

Now go and spread the word, my children. Your savior has come to gather his flock...and his name is SLASH.

CUT TO

(Shot of the congregation rushing out of the pews to the windows. They are trying to see the killers outside as they drive away and a few go to the aid of the older CHURCH DEACON)

ADAM takes SHELIA and DANNY's hands to lead them out the back door of the building where their horses are tied.

CUT TO

EXT. REAR OF FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH - MOMENTS LATER

The ESTES(3) mount up.

ADAM

 

Take Danny and get home as quick as you can. They're probably heading to Skip and Jeanie's house. I'm going to cut through the Lake Trail and if I hurry I can beat them there.

 

SHELIA

 

Be careful honey!

 

ADAM

(turning his mount sharply)

I should be home soon.

CUT TO

ADAM kicks the horse to a full gallop and disappears into the trees adjacent to the CHURCH.

FADE TO BLACK

CUT TO

EXT. KEITY'S HOME - FIFTEEN MINUTES LATER

ADAM stops and ties his horse about four hundred yards away on a hill overlooking the lake. Easing down the incline, he spies the home and the vehicles already there. ADAM takes cover as he sees several of the GANG MEMBERS walking around outside posted as sentries. Seeing the situation, he covertly goes back up the hill to his horse and makes his way back towards town.

CUT TO

EXT. FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH - HALF HOUR LATER

A crowd has gathered around the outside of the CHURCH. SHERIFF BROGAN is attempting to question the congregation as ADAM rides up and dismounts.

ADAM approaches SHERIFF BROGAN and BOBBY standing nearby.

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

Where did you ride off to Estes?

 

BOBBY

 

I think he got scared and run off Sheriff.

 

ADAM

(ignoring BOBBY'S remark)

I rode out to Skip's place to see if I could get Jeanie out but they beat me there.

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

That's a job for law enforcement.

 

ADAM

 

Well, "law enforcement" wasn't here at the time. There's got to be at least twenty men out there.

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

Soon as I get these statements, I'm taking my men out there to see what I can do about this situation.

 

ADAM

 

If you do you'll get Skip and Jeanie killed. These men have nothing to lose. They've already killed one in the church and no telling how many others.

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

This is not your concern.

 

BOBBY

 

Why don't you just run on home and we'll take care of this.

ADAM

(frustrated)

Bobby, when are you going to grow a set? You've never stood up for anything and now because you talked them into giving you a badge, you're some kind of superman?

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

Bobby's right. We tried to bring you into the town and you refused. Now you go tend to your family and my men and I will take care of those locusts.

ADAM shakes his head and retreats to mount his horse.

ADAM

 

Skip is my friend and you're going to get him killed.

BOBBY watches as ADAM rides away. BOBBY reflects on what ADAM said and then turns back to aid the SHERIFF.

FADE OUT

CUT TO

EXT. ESTES RESIDENCE - ONE HOUR LATER

ADAM rides up in the yard to find TOMMY with his horse.

ADAM

(dismounting and walking to TOMMY)

How is Sarah doing?

 

TOMMY

 

She's still in a little bit of shock. Not saying too much either. Her mom is pretty shook up too.

ADAM

 

I would imagine.

SHELIA comes out of the house and trots over to ADAM, kissing him on the cheek.

SHELIA

 

Did you get to Jeanie in time?

 

ADAM

 

No, they were already there.

 

TOMMY

(puzzled look)

What are you two talking about?

SHELIA and ADAM explain the morning hapenings to their son.

TOMMY

(enraged)

So why don't we go get them if we know where they're at?

ADAM

 

Whoa, slow down son. The sheriff will do what he has to.

(in an unsure tone)

ADAM (cont.)

 

I just hope he knows what he doing.

 

TOMMY

 

Dad, we've got to do something. That big son of a bitch raped Sarah!

 

ADAM

(shocked by his son's unaccustomed language but understanding his demeanor)

Listen, I know you're upset but what can we do?

TOMMY looks disappointed at his father's answer. He takes the reins of his father's horse and begins to walk both animals towards the BARN.

CUT TO

SHELIA AND ADAM stand in the front yard alone.

SHELIA

 

He's right you know. We should do something.

 

ADAM

(turning to SHELIA and looking into her eyes)

I know...

 

SHELIA

 

If it wasn't for us, right?

With his arm around his wife, they head into the house.

CUT TO

EXT. KEILTY'S HOME - LATE AFTERNOON

SHERIFF BROGAN and BOBBY assemble ten men, a half-mile up the road from SKIP and JEANIE'S house.

(SOUNDTRACK - John Mellencamp's 'Troubled Land" begins playing in the background)

CUT TO

With rifles at the ready and sidearms on their hips, the men proceed down the road. As they get within two-hundred yards of the KEILTY HOME, the SHERIFF motions for five men to go up the hill and five to circle down around the lake to get firing positions.

CUT TO

CLOSE UP SHOT AT HALF-SPEED: Sheriff Brogan And Bobby Walking Down The Road.
CUT TO

(resume full speed)

When his men are in position, SHERIFF BROGAN and BOBBY continue walking down the narrow paved-driveway to the residence. The two stop, when at about fifty-yards from the home, SLASH and GANG MEMBERS (4) walk out the basement door towards them.

CUT TO

OVERHEAD SHOT: With fity-feet separating the outlaws and the two lawmen, SHERIFF BROGAN and BOBBY stop.

('Troubled Land' ends in background)

CUT TO

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

I hear you caused quite a commotion in town this morning.

 

SLASH

 

Are you sure your jurisdiction reaches out here to the lake, sheriff?

SHERIFF BROGAN

(ignoring the question and unslinging the rifle from his shoulder)

You boys are surrounded. Now the killing is going to end right here.

 

SLASH

 

You got that all wrong. If you don't pack up and get out, the killing is just about to get started.

SLASH raises his arm and drops it quickly.

A shot in the wood adjacent to the home rings out.

SLASH (cont.)

 

You see, you're the ones surrounded. That was one of your deputies going down right there.

The SHERIFF looks to the left and right.

SLASH let's out a loud whistle and in various locations around the SHERIFF'S perimeter, he begins to see armed GANG MEMBERS appearing from different locations.

BOBBY

(whispering faintly)

What are we going to do?

 

SLASH

 

Now sheriff...in ten seconds I mean to start killing you. You got two, no...three options.

 

SHERIFF BROGAN

(calmly)

I'm listening.

SLASH

 

You can fight, you can run or you can just save us a lot of bullets and shoot yourself.

(scattered laughter from GANG)

SHERIFF BROGAN

 

I may need more time to decide.

ZOOM IN: Close Up Of SLASH'S Face.

SLASH

 

TEN!

 

NINE!

 

EIGHT!

CUT TO

BOBBY frantically turns to run. Seeing this the SHERIFF drops to a knee and shoulders the rifle. Firing at the group, BROGAN catches GANG MEMBER 7 in the leg and he goes down.

CUT TO VARIOUS SCENES OF:

The woods erupting with gunfire in all directions.

CUT TO

SLASH and the other GANG MEMBERS (3) run nearby for cover.

CUT TO

Deputies are falling all around as they are no match for the once-hidden GANG MEMBERS in the woods and by the lake.


CUT TO

BOBBY is running haphazardly up the driveway with bullets ricocheting off the asphalt, narrowly missing him.

CUT TO

SHERIFF takes a round to the arm and loses the grip on his rifle. From a prone-position, he removes his pistol with his one good hand and keeps firing until his clip is emptied. Struggling to remove another clip, he hears approaching footsteps and look up to see he is surrounded by SLASH and the GANG MEMBERS (3).

GANG MEMBER 1 kicks the SHERIFF'S pistol from his hand.

SLASH

 

You chose unwisely.

CUT TO

(shot of SHERIFF on the ground)

SHERIFF BROGAN

(wincing from his injury but grinning slightly)

Well, I won't make a good hostage.

CUT TO

SLASH raises his pistol.

SLASH

 

I don't need any more hostages.

SLASH fires the pistol three times into the SHERIFF.


CUT TO

BOBBY runs until he reaches one of the patrol trucks. He cranks it and spins around.

CUT TO

BOBBY speeds down the road back towards town.

FADE OUT

CUT TO

INT. ESTES RESIDENCE - AN HOUR AFTER SUNDOWN

Supper is interrupted by the sound of a vehicle pulling up the driveway. ADAM walks to the front door and picks up the shotgun leaning against the wall.

Quick footsteps on the front porch can be heard, followed by a heavy knocking on the metal door.

ADAM

 

Who's out there?

 

BOBBY

 

It's Bobby. Can I come in?

ADAM unlocks the deadbolt and opens the door a few inches. After seeing BOBBY is alone, he opens it fully.

ADAM

 

Come on in.

SHELIA joins the pair in the LIVING ROOM. They all sit down and BOBBY fills them in on the afternoon's events.

SHELIA

 

So all of them are dead?

 

BOBBY

(bows his head with his face in his hands)

Seems that way. I went back to town to try and get some help but most everybody is frightened.

 

ADAM

 

I knew going out there like that was a bad idea.

 

BOBBY

(raising his head up and looking at ADAM)

I thought about what you said earlier on the way back from Skip's place. My father would be ashamed of me. When the shooting started, I ran like a coward and left Brogan there by himself.

 

ADAM

 

Well Bobby, if I know your daddy, he's say, "Son...whatcha gonna do about it?"

 

BOBBY

(cracking a small smile)

Yeah, he would at that.

CUT TO

Standing up, ADAM comes to a stark realization. He places a hand on BOBBY'S shoulder.

ADAM

 

Can you give us a minute?
Shelia, I need to talk to you.

While the two resign to their bedroom. TOMMY and DANNY come from the kitchen to sit with BOBBY.


CUT TO

INT. MASTER BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER

ADAM

 

Honey, there's something I have to do. It's not an easy decision and if you say no...

SHELIA moves closer and places her extended index finger on ADAM'S lips.

SHELIA

 

Skip has been like your second father since your dad passed away. I know what your thinking. The boys and I will be fine here.

 

ADAM

 

If there was any other way...

CLOSE UP: SHELIA'S Face

SHELIA

(a small tear rolls down her cheek)

But there isn't. You told us there were going to be hard times ahead. Well, I guess this is one of those times now.

 

ADAM

(wipes the tear away and pulls SHELIA in close)

Everything's is going to be fine.

 

SHELIA

(resting her head on ADAM'S shoulder, trying to hold back her emotions)

Keep saying that and I'll try and believe it.

CUT TO

The two kiss passionately and hold each other for a moment.

CUT TO

INT. LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER

ADAM and SHELIA return as BOBBY stands.

ADAM

 

What was Brogan using for an assembly alarm in town?

 

BOBBY

 

He had someone ring the big bells over at the First Baptist Church.

 

ADAM

 

Well then, I've got another question for you Mr. Johnson...You remember what Skip used to tell us before every football game?

 

BOBBY

(smiling)

I believe it was, "A challenge is not a challenge unless we meet it head on."

 

ADAM

 

It's time for a some "head on." You up to it?

BOBBY extends his hand to ADAM. With a firm grip, the two solidify the partnership.

ADAM

 

Let me grab some gear and we'll head to town.

CUT TO

TOMMY is the first to the gun case and begins to remove his deer rifle.

ADAM

 

Whoa son, where do you think you're going?

 

TOMMY

(bluntly)

This is my fight too. Did you forget Sarah?

 

ADAM

 

No I didn't but you're needed here with your mom and brother.

 

TOMMY

 

You'll need all the guns you can get. I can outshoot you...remember last deer season.

 

ADAM

(firmly)

I hope there won't be any shooting. I don't have time to argue, your place is here and that's final.

CUT TO

Dejected, TOMMY slowly places his Remmington back in its place and leaves quietly down the hallway.

CUT TO

EXT. DRIVEWAY - A FEW MINUTES LATER

BOBBY cranks the old flatbed, while ADAM and SHELIA embrace illuminated by the faint glow of it's headlights. With only a look between them and a kiss, ADAM releases his grip and jumps into the vehicle.

CUT TO

The single red tail light grows dim as the truck bounces down the driveway. SHELIA turns and walks back towards the garage.

ZOOM IN: TOMMY'S Bedroom Window

TOMMY'S solemn face is clearly seen. The mini-blinds close slowly.

FADE TO BLACK

(CHURCH BELLS RINGING LOUDLY)

CUT TO

EXT. DAWSONVILLE CITY HALL - ABOUT AN HOUR LATER

ADAM has set up several rudimentry torches outside the building. Within fifteen minutes of the alarm, two-dozen men have assembled on the town square.

BOBBY

(shouting to the GROUP)

Let me have your attention.

The GROUP quiets their talking.

BOBBY (cont.)

 

Now most of you have heard about what happend out at Skip's house this afternoon. There's a real threat to our town and at the moment, one of our own needs help.

(Quiet murmuring amongst the individuals.)

ADAM

 

We need some volunteers to help us go get Skip and Jeanie back.

 

GROUP PERSON 1

 

What about our families here? Who's gonna protect them?

 

BOBBY

(confidently)

I know you all have responsibilities here. Adam has as much to lose as anyone, yet here he is. We're only a week into this tragedy. Let me tell you men, if we don't make a stand now, it won't be long until our entire community falls to gangs like this one. Skip has given a lot to our town without ever asking for anything in return. It's time we step up and do the right thing for him.

The GROUP mulls over the words.

GROUP PERSON 1

 

You got a plan?

 

BOBBY

 

Meet us at the sheriff's office in an hour and we'll fill you in.

CUT TO

The GROUP disperses towards their homes. ADAM and BOBBY stand alone in the flickering light of the torches.

BOBBY

 

Let's go see what Brogan has locked up in the weapons room.

FADE OUT


CUT TO

EXT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - ONE HOUR LATER

Sixteen men return as volunteers, dressed in various patterns of camoflage clothing. With the headlamps of the flatbed truck for illumination, BOBBY and ADAM distribute fully-automatic assault rifles and ammunition comandeered from the weapons room to the GROUP.

CUT TO

EXT. FLATBED TRUCK - LATER IN THE NIGHT

Faint patches of moonlight reveal the GROUP sitting in the back of the vehicle as it bounces along the road towards the lake.

CUT TO

EXT. WOODS ADJACENT TO KEILTY RESIDENCE - A FEW HOURS BEFORE DAYBREAK

The men fan out through the woods to take positions surrounding the home. ADAM and BOBBY take cover on a steep hill about one-hundred yards from the basement door.

BOBBY

 

Can you see anything through the binoculars?

 

ADAM

 

No, the moon is throwing too many shadows.

FADE OUT


CUT TO

INT. KEILTY HOME BASEMENT - DAY TEN AT DAWN

GANG MEMBER 10 stirs from his sleep. Standing and stretching, he picks up a pistol from a nearby table and walks out the basement door.

CUT TO

EXT. WOODS ADJACENT TO KEILTY HOME - MOMENTS LATER

BOBBY

 

We've got movement down there.

ADAM takes the binoculars and scans the area. The GANG MEMBER 10 walks over behind one of the old trucks and begins to urinate on the ground.

ADAM

 

They're starting to stir.

ADAM pans the binoculars up to the main floor.

(shot of Skip through a window, tied to a chair)

ADAM (cont.)

 

I see Skip through the glass sliding doors in the kitchen. He's unconscious and tied to a chair.

 

BOBBY

 

How do you know he's not asleep.

 

ADAM

 

Because I know Skip...Well I guess it's time.

 

BOBBY

 

Are you sure about this Adam...still seems pretty risky.

ADAM

 

I don't see as we have any choice. Besides, all those war stories we've heard from Skip are finally starting to become usful.

 

BOBBY

 

Good luck.

ADAM lays his rifle down behind the brushpile and stands up from behind the cover. Slowly he starts walking down the hill towards the KEILTY HOME.

CUT TO

EXT. KEILTY HOME - BACK DRIVEWAY

GANG MEMBER 10 POV

GANG MEMBER 10 sees someone walking at a slow pace towards him from the tree line. Racing back a few steps to the basement door, he opens it and yells inside to rouse the sleeping group.

CUT TO

GANG MEMBER 10 aims his pistol in the direction of the approaching stranger.

GANG MEMBER 10

 

Just keep walking this way and keep your hands in plain sight.

ADAM arrives behind the house as SLASH and GANG MEMEBERS(8) come quickly out the basement door.

SLASH

(scanning the surrounding area as he moves within ten feet of ADAM)

Well well, what do we have here?

ADAM seemingly ignores the statement.

SLASH

(walking a couple of steps closer to ADAM)

Hey! I'm talking to you, prick!.

 

ADAM

 

I am here representing the town council. You scared a lot of people in town with that scene at the church yesterday and we heard about what you did to the sheriff and his deputies. Now the council wants you men out of here as soon as possible. I am here to offer you whatever it takes for you to pack up and leave.

 

SLASH

(scans the area again from left to right)

Did you come alone?

 

ADAM

 

Yes. Now what is it going to take to get all of you in these vehicles and out of here?

 

SLASH

(pulling his pistol from his pants and aiming it at ADAM)

First off, I'm not making any deals. If I want something, I'll take it. And second, I'm not stupid enough to think you came out here alone.

 

SLASH (cont.)

(cocking the pistol with his thumb)

Now tell your men to show themselves or you get the first bullet.

 

ADAM

 

All we want is for you and your men to move on.

SLASH brings his finger to the trigger.

ADAM

 

Alright, alright.

ADAM turns around slowly and raises his arms above his head in a crossing fashion. BOBBY and four members of the GROUP nearby him expose their locations by standing. All GANG MEMBERS (8) raise their weapons to cover the new strangers.

SLASH

(shouting to the GROUP)

Drop your guns and walk down here.

SLASH takes two more steps towards ADAM and strikes him across the face with the back of his hand. ADAM takes the blow and stands unshaken.

SLASH

 

Lie to me will ya?

BOBBY and the GROUP MEMBERS (4) walk slowly down the road, stopping near the rear of the vehicles.

SLASH

(recognizing BOBBY)

Hey...don't I know you? Yeah, you're the one that was running like a scared jackrabbit up the road yesterday.

BOBBY continues to look SLASH in the eyes without blinking.

SLASH (cont.)

 

So, this is all the town could find to send out here?

 

ADAM

 

So what is it going to take to get you to leave?

SLASH hits ADAM again but harder this time with his fist. ADAM stumbles backwards a couple of steps and then regains his footing.

SLASH

 

Are you deaf? What I want...I take.

From the second floor deck, the sliding glass doors open and GANG MEMBER 6 walks outside armed with a rifle. ADAM peers upward and can clearly see that SKIP is now awake .

ADAM

(speaking loudly enough for SKIP to hear)

So you don't like deal number one then?

 

SLASH

 

I've got everything I need right here. You've got nothing else to offer me.

 

SKIP

(yelling from inside the home)

Forty-Two...this is no time to be airing it out. All this punk understands is the smash-mouth offense.

 

SLASH

 

What the hell is he talking about?

ADAM

 

Skip used to be my football coach. I guess the beating you gave him must have knocked him silly. But I do have a question for you.

 

SLASH

 

I think every man should have one last request before he dies.

 

ADAM

 

How about you lay that gun down, then you and I have a go at it. But if I win, Skip and Jeanie go free and y'all get the hell out of here.

CUT TO

CLOSE UP: SLASH and ADAM

SLASH

(moving closer to ADAM)

What's in it for me?

 

ADAM

 

I guess it won't really matter because I'll probably be dead by then.

CUT TO

SLASH smiles and backs up a few steps removing his tank-top undershirt. He then motions his men to move back and gives his pistol to GANG MEMBER 2. The massive, musclar upper torso of SLASH dwarfs, ADAM's average build.


ADAM removes his camo jacket, then turns towards BOBBY lying it on the ground. Raising his eyebrows, ADAM cuts his eyes towards the vintage trucks. BOBBY responds with a slight nod.

CUT TO

CLOSE UP: As ADAM Turns Back Around, SLASH'S Fist Connects With His Jaw.

CUT TO

ADAM fall backwards to the ground, dazed and disorientated. SLASH laughs boldly and makes a hand motion for him to get up. ADAM stands up and raises his fists in a defensive posture. The GANG MEMBERS start shouting and cheering their leader on in the background.

Moving towards each other, ADAM lands a punch to SLASH'S cheek. Unfazed, the Samoan swings a round-house shot, catching ADAM in his ear and putting him on the ground again.

SLASH

 

Is that all you've got?

ADAM jumps to his feet and hits SLASH at his waistline with his shoulder. SLASH stumbles backwards and loses his footing with both falling in front of the GANG MEMBERS (8). ADAM begins landing blows to SLASH'S face, when GANG MEMBER 3 kicks ADAM off his downed leader. All GANG MEMBERS (8) begin yelling louder.

CUT TO

BOBBY covertly motions to the GROUP (4) to move closer to the vehicles for cover.

CUT TO

ADAM lands on his back hard and struggles to get up. SLASH dives on ADAM, pinning the smaller man's arms to the ground. Multiple punches to ADAM'S face bring him to the brink of unconsciousness. SLASH then stands to his feet, overshadowing his bloody prey.

SLASH

 

Just think what I'd have done to you if I had breakfast first...You lose little man.

CLOSE UP: SLASH Motions To GANG MEMBER 2 And He Throws Him The Pistol.

CUT TO

SLOW MOTION SHOT: SLASH brings the pistol in line with ADAM'S head. SLASH'S finger goes for the trigger. Suddenly a bullet pierces SLASH'S chest and he stumbles back two steps. With the gun still trained in ADAM'S direction, SLASH again regains aim and reaches for the trigger. A second shot penetrates SLASH'S forehead, picking him up off the ground slightly and he falls backwards into the now scrambling GANG MEMBERS (8).

CUT TO

REAL TIME

EXT. TREE LINE - SAME MOMENT

Almost two-hundred yards away, TOMMY looks through the scope on the Remington 7mm Magnum's rifle scope.

TOMMY

 

That's for Sarah you son of a bitch.

CUT TO

EXT. KEILTY HOME BACK DRIVEWAY - MOMENT LATER

BOBBBY and GROUP (4) take cover under the old trucks. Automatic weapon fire erupts from the remaining hidden GROUP (12), scattered in various locations around home. GANG MEMBERS (8) come under heavy fire and are dispatched quickly.

CUT TO

EXT. KEILTY HOME DECK ON SECOND FLOOR - SAME TIME

GANG MEMEBER 6 takes a five round blast from an automatic rifle to the chest. He falls forward and drops off the deck to the asphalt below.

CUT TO

EXT. KEILTY HOME FRONT YARD - SAME TIME

Remaining GANG MEMBERS flee out the front door of the HOME, only to find the GROUP awaiting their exit. Though some drop their weapons and raise their hands, the GROUP takes no quarter and fires until they are all dead.

CUT TO

EXT. KEILTY HOME BACK DRIVEWAY - FEW MOMENTS LATER

BOBBY helps a battered ADAM get to his feet as TOMMY runs down the hill to meet them. With both resting one of ADAM's arms on their shoulders, they help him into the KEILTY HOME.


(SOUNDTRACK - Explosions In The Sky 'Remember Me As a Time of Day' starts playing softly in the background)


CUT TO

ZOOM OUT FROM ABOVE: The scene of GANG MEMBERS' bodies scattered in the front and back yards of the KEILTY HOME.

FADE OUT


CUT TO
EXT. SUNRISE IN AN EASTERN SKY - DAY FIFTEEN

ADAM

(voice in background)

That wasn't the last group of locusts our town would have to battle. But with each passing challenge...

CUT TO

EXT. DAWSONVILLE SHERIFF'S OFFICE - DAY FIFTEEN

(shot of BOBBY in a sheriff's uniform standing outside watching the passing pedestrians.

ADAM

(voice in background)

...our new sheriff met each one head on.

CUT TO

EXT. CEMETERY - DAY ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-FIVE

CHARLIE and IRENE DOUGLAS are standing at a snow covered grave that has an exquisitely-built wooden cross.

ADAM

(voice in background)

We lost Jasper just before Christmas. He was like so many that succumbed to the lack of medications and adequate medical care in the days to follow.

CUT TO

EXT. ESTES RESIDENCE BACK YARD - DAY TWO HUNDRED FORTY-ONE

ADAM and SHELIA are hoeing the ground as DANNY is planting seeds behind them in a new garden spot. TOMMY and SARAH can be seen in the distance sitting together on the rails of the horse pen.

ADAM

(voice in background)

Though winter is over, there's still a slight chill in the air. Skip was told that it was the Chinese government who sent the high-altitude nukes over most of the continential U.S. He figured the Chinese didn't want to wait around for repayment on all of that debt we owed them. What ever the case, they probably didn't get a chance to see the results, as our government sent several hundred ICBM's their way at the same time.

('Remember Me As a Time of Day' is abruptly replaced by the sound of a fighter jet)

(shot of a jet fighter at one-thousand feet, zooming over their heads)

ADAM (cont.)

(voice in background)

The Army has moved in now to stabilize the area.

ADAM stops the gardening work and SHELIA comes to his side. They smile while watching TOMMY and SARAH walk back from the horse barn hand-in-hand.

ADAM (cont.)

(voice in background)

Our family ties are what have held us together. Who knows what tomorrow will bring.

(SOUNDTRACK - Fleetwood Mac's 'Don't Stop' starts playing in background)

ADAM (cont.)

(voice in background)

What ever it is, we'll be here to take it on...together.

FADE TO BLACK

(ending credits roll)

Impressum

Texte: all rights reserved © 2011 GlenMarcus
Tag der Veröffentlichung: 20.09.2011

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Widmung:
Over ten years ago, terrorist struck a blow to America; The likes that had never been seen. This story is devoted to the nearly 3000 people that didn't make it home to their families that September day. R.I.P.