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Entry tags:
Still Life - "Gravity" - Acts IV & V
Gravity, Acts I, II, & III
Act IV
Fade up on:
Nona coming down the stairs, returning to the living room to find Max and Remmie sizing each other up.
Nona: (to Remmie) Hell, I thought you were gone till Friday.
Remmie: (definitely not happy) Yeah, well, plans changed.
Max: (his tone says he knows this was a mistake) I’m gonna go.
He heads for the door, but Nona grabs his arm.
Nona: Stay, Max. (To Remmie) I’m sorry. I didn’t want you to find out like this, obviously, but . . .
Remmie: (eyes darting between Nona and Max) But what?
Max is wide-eyed, his own gaze darting between Nona and Remmie. This could get ugly, and he wants out.
Nona: It just happened, Rem.
Max: I’m gonna leave.
Max tries again to make his exit, but Remmie grabs him by the front of his jacket and shoves him up against the door. Max’s hand goes up in self-defense, but he’s pinned pretty good.
Max: Look, man, I didn’t know the two of you were together, alright? If I did, nothing woulda happened.
Nona: (stepping between them) Remmie, he didn’t know.
Max: (trying to pull free Remmie’s grip) Let go, man. It’s not between you and me.
Nona: Remmie, he didn’t know!
Max: (twisting his arm free, trying to push Rem away) Let go, man.
Remmie: Get out of my house.
Nona: Max . . .
Max gives her a look, then let’s himself out the door, backing out until the door is between them, and he leaves.
Again, Jensen’s facial expressions tell the story. Max is hurt, probably feeling used, like he’s been had. Things seemed to be going well, and wham!
Cut to:
Close up of a pool table, racked pool balls ready to be broken.
Camera moves out to show:
Interior, Bar/Pool hall:
Em doing the breaking. Stack is behind her, waiting his turn.
Em: You run the table, and I’ll give you ten bucks.
Stack: (readying to take a shot) Ten bucks? What’s that, your allowance?
Em: My company is having some cash flow problems.
Stack: Well, my company’s got $380 bucks left on its MasterCard. I can front you a hundred. (He takes his shot.) See that? You could have made a C-note right there.
Em: (frowning at the horrible shot) Dude, you suck.
Stack: (stepping aside) Show me what you got. Twenty.
Em: Alright. (She takes her shot. It sounds wimpy—no cracking balls—and she groans.)
Stack: (lining up his next shot) I like your choice of venue, though. (He sinks a ball in the corner pocket.)
Em: (sipping her mug of beer) Yeah, um, a friend told me about this place. But you need a car to get here, so . . .
Stack: Well, now that you have the employee transport vehicle, you can go visit your friend the bartender any time. (He sinks another ball in the side pocket.) (Off Em’s puzzled frown) I saw you chatting him up earlier.
Em looks toward the bar; the tender smiles at her and nods.
Em: You saw me tell him how to mix a velvet hammer.
Stack sinks yet another in a corner pocket. He has cleared all his pool balls from the table.
Stack: (holding his hand out for payment) Twenty dollars.
Em: What??? Hustler! (And she slaps his outstretched hand, but after an initial glare, she smiles.)
Stack: (with a chuckle) How do you think I paid my way through cooking school?
Em: For real?
Stack: Yeah. When I wasn’t working in the kitchen of a nursing home. You’re lookin’ at the guy who invented pureed pizza, by the way.
Em grins. They’re both having a really good time.
Cut to:
Interior, Morgan Campaign dining area, Day:
The next day . . .
Ben is on the couch in the living room area, hunched over some papers on the coffee table doing paperwork of some sort. Charlotte and Jon are frantically packing up things from the table, and Daisy and Willa are watching.
Charlotte: (to Jon) You be going by the office before me?
Jonathan: Post office, then office.
Daisy: Mom! Willa and I want to take you on a hike this weekend. Just girls. You know, get you away from all your work. Work, work, work.
Willa: Yeah, refill the well, ya know?
Charlotte: Well, I’d love to, but I can’t.
Jonathan: We will be out of town.
Daisy: (uncomfortable with the idea) Where are you going?
Charlotte: Napa. One of Sullivan’s former mayors has an estate there, and he invited us to a weekend party.
Daisy: (even more uncomfortable) Uh, like, like sleeping there overnight?
Jonathan: Big endorsement. Lots of votes. (To Charlotte, as he takes a box of stuff) Uh, I will see you later.
Charlotte: Yes.
Daisy: Uh, Dad! So you’re going, right?
Ben turns on the couch toward the group behind him. His brow is furrowed in puzzlement.
Ben: (to Charlotte) You tell me about this?
Charlotte: I did.
Ben: Did you?
Charlotte: I think I did. (She throws him a kiss) Bye. (And is out the door.)
Daisy: (to her father) So go! Oh, Napa! That’s fun!
Ben: Naw, I gotta work.
And he turns back to his papers, leaving Daisy standing with her mouth agape in surprise.
Cut to:
Interior, Art gallery, Day:
Max enters through the front door to find Maggie painting a white wall green, using a paint brush. She’s wearing a bright pink top and black miniskirt. (He’s got his suede jacket on over a green Henley and black T.) He smiles fondly as he walks up behind her.
Max: You’re painting a wall.
Maggie: (smiling at him) I’m aware of that.
Max: Where’s my camera when I need it? This should be documented.
Maggie: We have a new exhibit next week. Thought I’d do a color test.
Max: It’s a big test.
Maggie: I got carried away. There’s something calming about painting. You don’t have to think.
Max: Clearly. (Max’s eyes dart to the wall and back to Maggie, his expression all mischief.)
Maggie: Shut up.
Max: I wanted to come by and let you know that I, uh, I got the job next door with Finn.
Maggie: Well, that’s great.
Max: Yeah.
Maggie: I knew you’d find something.
Max: So it looks like you’ll have a friend in the neighborhood after all.
Maggie: Good. (This is getting a little awkward. She can’t really look him in the eye.) Looks like you already have a friend in the neighborhood. (Off Max’s look) Your bike?
Max: Yeah, that. (He clears his throat) That didn’t really work out. I mean, she was a nice girl and all, but, I don’t know, (Maggie looks at him shyly) I guess I’m just not boyfriend material right now.
Maggie: (looking back to her painting) It’s weird how things get complicated so fast.
A pause while they exchange small smiles . . .
Max: Hey, you know the roller, Maggie, is what you use to cover bigger spaces. (He gestures painting up and down, then gestures to contrast and emphasize “bigger spaces.”)
Maggie: Yeah, okay. So use the roller.
Max: I think you just conned me into helping you paint this wall.
Maggie: (laughing) Not just this wall, buddy. We’re doing the whole joint.
Max looks around at the very large room.
Max: Where’s the, uh, big man when it comes to the dirty work, huh?
Maggie: Don’t. (beat) You’re the one who thought it was such a great idea me dating him.
Max: Yep. Sorry.
Maggie: (awkward subject avoided) Hey, watch the splatter. I’ve got to meet clients in these clothes later.
Max puts down the roller and starts taking off his jacket.
Maggie: What are you doing?
Max takes off his jacket, pulls his arms out of the sleeves of his Henley . . .
Maggie: You’re taking off your clothes.
Max: Figure why ruin your shirt, when, uh, I can ruin both of mine, huh?
. . . and he pulls it off over his head, leaving him in his black T (and adorably tossle-haired).
Max helps her pull the Henley over her head.
Max: There ya go.
Maggie: Careful. (She giggles) Wait. (It’s something of a challenge getting her own clothed arms through the sleeves.)
Max: Here. (He steps behind her and helps maneuver the neckline over her head. It’s silly and goofy and fun for both of them.) Watch your hair. (He pulls her hair long hair out of the shirt as she tries to pull the shirt down all the way.) Should I just not help?
Maggie: No, no. Help.
Max: Okay. (As Maggie continues giggling.) Watch your—
Whit enters to find this little scene going on, and Max and Maggie stop immediately, as if caught in the act of something.
Whit: Hey. (He is not happy.)
Max steps away from Maggie, standing straight (and looking darn fine in his black T and jeans), hands in his pockets.
Maggie: Hey. (Indicating the paint cans, drop cloth, etc.) Uh, sorry about this, it won’t be such a mess permanently.
Whit: No worries. I’ll be in the office making some calls.
Max and Maggie look at each other and smile awkwardly, obviously uncomfortable with the situation now.
Blue Wash to:
Establishing shot, Exterior, Maggie’s apartment, Night:
Cut to:
Interior, Maggie’s apartment:
Maggie opens the door and lets herself in.
Maggie: Need help?
Whit: No, no, I’m okay.
Behind her, Whit enters, carrying a very heavy crate.
He sets it heavily on the table with a sigh.
Whit: Well, thank you for letting me carry that up. It’s made my back feel wonderful.
Maggie: Uh, Whit? About earlier with Max . . .
Whit: Hey, Maggie, forget it.
Maggie: It just, he’s got a job right in the neighborhood now, and we’re trying to make the friend thing work.
Whit: As you should. Come here.
He leads her over to the couch, where they sit side by side. He pulls out a photograph to show her.
Whit: This is the view from your room in Barcelona. It’s one of my favorite places anywhere in the world. We have the whole of the top floor, a butler, and this roof garden with this incredibly fragrant, oh, I don’t know, jasmine or something.
Maggie looks less than excited.
Whit: You’re having second thoughts.
Maggie: (with a shrug) I’m feeling . . . I don’t know. Confused. (She tries to soften the blow with a smile.)
Whit: Okay. Barcelona’s not going to go anywhere.
He rises from the couch and steps away.
Maggie: But you might.
Whit: (turning toward her) Oh, I wouldn’t bet on it. You and Max need to, um, figure things out, but I’ll be around. Either to pick up the pieces, or, um, dance at your wedding.
Maggie: (sighing a laugh) Yeah. Don’t really see that in my future, me and Max.
Whit: Why not?
Maggie: (with a sigh) I don’t know. Uh, we have this connection, but . . . somehow things always get . . . hard.
Whit: So what are you doing?
Maggie looks at him. She has no answer, and I’m thinking he’s got a point.
Whit: Okay. You can get back to me on that.
He sits on the coffee table opposite her, taking her hands in his. (Her fishnet stockings are particularly highlighted in this shot. Huh.)
Whit: I’m a patient man.
Maggie: You’re so not patient.
Whit: True. But for you, I’ll learn to be.
Cut to:
Establishing shot, Morgan house, Night:
Cut to:
Interior, front hall:
The camera looks down from upstairs as Max comes in the front door. He heads to the stairs, where Daisy is sitting across them. She stretches out her legs to block her brother's way.
Daisy: (with mischief in her voice) You ain’t foolin’ anyone.
Max: (waiting to get past) I wasn’t aware I was trying to fool anyone.
Daisy: Well, good, ‘cause you ain’t. See, I’m all over what’s going on in this house.
Max: (completely confused) What are you talking about?
Daisy: (with a shrug, as she moves her legs so Max can get through) Just talkin’ about what’s upstairs.
Max shifts his gaze toward the bedrooms.
Cut to:
Interior, Max’s room:
Nona is there, looking at Max’s pictures that are displayed on his wall. Max stops short upon finding her there.
Nona: How’s the new gig working out?
Max throws out his arms in puzzled “bzuh?” surprise.
Nona: (her arms are crossed, very self-defensive as she steps away from the wall and moves toward Max) Look, don’t freak. Your sister let me in. I wanted to say I’m sorry, again, for not coming clean with you right away. (She shifts from foot to foot, puts her hands in her back pockets.)
Max nods his acceptance of the apology.
Max: We all make mistakes.
Nona: I know. But you’re not a mistake.
She steps right up to him, into his personal space. He shifts his eyes away and his brows squinch for a moment. She strokes the front of his jacket.
Nona: You’re not. I’m in love with you, Max.
Max: Nona . . . (He takes her wrist and removes her hand from his shoulder.)
Nona: I broke off my engagement. (To which Max and I both go, WT???) I’m free. For you.
Max is totally surprised and not a little dismayed, and Jensen plays it so well.
Fade to BLACK.
Act V
Interior, Morgan family room:
Ben is leaning back in a comfy chair, watching the news when Daisy comes in and sits on the coffee table right in front of the TV.
Daisy: Something really, really bad has happened.
Ben clicks off the TV, all of his attention on Daisy.
Ben: What is it?
Daisy: You have to promise not to get mad or hurt anybody.
Ben sits up and puts the remote on the coffee table.
Ben: What is it?
After a long pause . . .
Daisy: Jonathan is in love with Mom.
Ben’s expression says, “Oh.” This isn’t really what he was expecting.
Ben: And what makes you think that, exactly?
Daisy moves to sit next to her dad.
Daisy: I’ve been watching him. He just smiles too much around her. He’s way too into her.
Ben: Well, it’s his job to be into her.
Daisy: Not like this. (Off Ben’s considering look) You don’t believe me.
Ben: I just think you might be a little biased because he’s . . . not into you.
Daisy: Me. (Very serious, perhaps slightly freaked) I am so over him. He has absolutely breeched Mom’s professional trust.
Ben: Well, now, even if he does admire your mother, she can deal with it.
Daisy: Aren’t you gonna kick his ass?
Ben: (with a chuckle) No, I’m not. Just ignore him. That’s what I do.
Daisy: Some couples would have a problem with this.
Ben: Your mother and I are not some couple. We made it this far, didn’t we?
Daisy still looks worried.
Ben: Dais. We can handle a crush. (He reaches out, strokes her chin fondly with his thumb.) Small potatoes.
Daisy smiles, reassured.
Daisy: Okay. Okay. Ugh. I’m sorry for being such a freak. I want you guys to be okay.
Ben and Daisy hug sweetly, father having put daughter’s fears to rest.
Daisy: Thanks.
Ben: Mm-hm.
Daisy hops up and is on her way.
Cut to:
Jon on the phone in another part of the first floor (can’t really tell where).
Ben enters, and he definitely has something on his mind. As Jon hangs up the phone, Ben claps him on the back.
Ben: Need a word.
Jonathan is . . . startled by the seriousness of the tone, but he nods . . .
Cut to:
Interior, Max’s bedroom:
Nona sits on the bed as Max paces past her. He’s a little on the self-defensive, and his body language and hand gestures reflect that.
Max: Alright, listen to me. I did not tell you to break up with your fiancé.
Nona: Obviously if I fell for you, Max, I shouldn’t be getting married.
Max: Well, no. (He sits on his desk, puts his foot up on a chair.) I mean, if that’s true, no, but—Nona, we met each other, like, a week ago.
Nona: I knew it the second we met.
Max: That’s impossible.
Nona: You didn’t feel anything?
Max: Yeah, I felt something. I felt attraction, I liked you.
Nona: We connected.
Max: Yeah, but it wasn’t love. Man, I know what that feels like.
Nona: So do I.
Max: What about Remmie?
Nona: (with a sigh) It’s changed. I think we . . . I feel for him, obviously, but with you it’s totally different. (She stands and moves into his space, puts a hand on his shoulder.) It’s what I’ve been needing.
Max: (pushing her hand away) No, you feel like that now, but you pegged it. I’m the reset guy.
Nona: I thought we’d be that for each other, but . . . I’m just as freaked out as you are, Max. I didn’t expect it to be more.
Max gets up and walks around her, distancing himself, evading.
Max: Nona, I’ve been in the same situation, on your side of things, and I did the same thing.
Nona: To Just-An-Ex?
Max: Yeah. Maggie. Had nothin’ to do with—with the other girl. (He sits on his bed.) It was me. I was runnin’ away from somethin’ that was—that was too real.
Nona: (rushing to him, stroking his hair, the back of his head) Maybe that’s what you’re doing now.
Max: (looking up at her through her with those angsty ladykiller eyes) I don’t think so.
Nona lets her hand drop, and she steps back.
Nona: That’s it?
Max: I’m sorry.
Nona: Yeah. Me, too.
She leaves the room, leaving Max sitting on his bed.
Cut to:
Interior, Sports bar:
A group is gathered around the big screen TV watching football, while Em carries two bottles of beer to the pool table where Stack is taking a shot. The balls crack.
Em: Nice.
Stack: (accepting one of the bottles) Thanks.
Em: Thanks for joining me.
Stack: Thanks for the call. I’m always up for checkin’ out a new joint.
Em: Yeah, the last place smelled like pee.
She offers a toast with their beer.
Em: To a gig. Any gig.
They drink.
Em: I can’t wait for the world to find out how great your food is. Seriously. You’re due.
Stack: (nodding his appreciation) Yeah, this is gonna work. (They exchange a smile, then he gets a wee bit flustered.) We—our—our business. We make—we make a good team.
Em: Agreed.
The bartender calls to Em from behind the bar.
Bartender: Hey! I asked around about that guy you were looking for.
Em: (trying to blow it off, like she doesn’t want something getting out) Don’t worry about it.
Stack looks back at the tender, then at Em. And is she looking guilty. Reluctantly, she meets his eye.
Stack reacts. He’s been had.
Stack: Son of a— That guy. You mean Gideon, right? (He’s pissed. He turns to the bartender.) Yeah, man. Whadja find out?
Bartender: Uh, he owes the owner here a lot of money, but no one can find him.
Stack: (turns back to Em and tells her) No matter how hard they look.
He places his pool cue firmly on the table, grabs his jacket, and walks away.
Em: (hurrying after him) Stack . . .
Cut to:
Exterior, Outside the bar, Night:
Em, struggling into her coat, purse swinging behind her, follows Stack to his car.
Em: Stack. I was just trying to find out what happened to him. He mentioned these places.
Stack: (arriving at the car and turning on her) Why’d you jerk me around about this?
Em: Because I . . . I knew you’d get mad. And I never thought it would be so . . . fun. But it was.
Stack: (sarcasm is his friend here) Oh, how disappointing. To have fun with me.
Em: Stack, I feel awful. You’re the last person I’d ever want to hurt.
Stack: Right. Unless you need my car.
Em turns away; she has no comeback.
Stack: Hey, I’m not hurt. You can chase that dude around all you want. Makes no difference to me.
Em: (now on the defensive) I’m not chasing him.
Stack: Oh, right. Sorry. Stalking. And for what? He’s a con man.
Em: Stop trashing my boyfriend!
Stack: He’s not your boyfriend! Boyfriends take you out to dinner! They teach you kung-fu! They let you know if they’re actually alive or dead!
Em looks hurt, being called on the carpet like this (but I’m gonna have to go with Stack on this one).
Stack: But you’d rather have this—this drama than someone who’s—
He cuts himself off before he says too much, shakes his head.
Stack: Forget it. I’m an ass.
Em: No, I am. Don’t like me, Stack.
Stack: (as he unlocks the car) I don’t.
Em: (brow furrowed in distress, but the tears haven’t started yet) It’s just better if we keep things simple.
Stack: Agreed. Let’s keep ‘em simple. Taxi stand’s back there.
He climbs into the driver’s seat and slams the door. Em stands there, at a loss what to do. Stack hangs his head for a moment, then reaches over and opens the passenger’s side door.
Stack: Get in.
Em: (leaning in to see him) I’m sorry. I’m gonna take the taxi. (She closes the door and walks away.)
Stack sits in the car, fist clenched. He’s angry at himself. He knows he blew it.
Cut to:
Establishing shot:
Exterior, brick building, the building where Finn’s studio is located, Day:
Cut to:
Interior, Finn’s loft, Day:
Max has a camera opened in front of him on the table, a small screwdriver in his hand. He’s working diligently on whatever it is he’s doing when Nona comes in. (Wardrobe notes: Gray, abstract print T under gray sweat jacket with red and white stripes down the sleeve.)
Max looks up as he hears her footsteps.
Nona: Hi.
Max leans back in his chair, clearly not expecting the visit.
Max: Nona.
Nona: (crossing her arms in front of her) I’m sorry to just pop in like this.
Max: Naw, it’s . . . cool. (He rubs the side of his face, almost like he’s just woken up from a nap. He needs to shift his focus to his visitor.) Uh, actually I’ve been meaning to call you and see how—how you were. (He shifts his gaze, scratches his head nervously.) Come on in.
Nona: Thanks. (She enters the room and sits on the leather couch opposite Max.
Max: So how’re you doin’?
Nona: I wanted to tell you I’ve been thinking a lot about everything. What you said about looking at my own crap.
Max says nothing, an ear to listen.
Nona: The truth is, is that I’ve been terrified since the day Remmie asked me to marry him.
Max nods, leans forward, elbows on knees, looking for the right words.
Max: That’s normal, I’m sure.
Nona: I’m not crazy. I act like it sometimes, but I’m not. I really felt something here.
Max: Yeah, it’s just . . . I mean . . . (he huffs a sigh, runs his hand through his hair.)
Nona: Who can tell, anyway, you know? The circumstances are so messed up, I just . . .
Max looks at her (those killer eyes), looking very understanding, waits for her to continue.
Nona: I told Remmie this, too, I . . . I need time to get my life together for real. Alone.
Max nods.
Max: Maybe you should try yoga. (He offers her the tiniest smile at the joke.)
Nona smiles widely at him, appreciative of his understanding.
Cut to:
Interior, An old (Victorian?) house that’s been converted into a restaurant:
Sun streams in the door as Charlotte leads Jonathan into the foyer where the maître d' awaits.
Charlotte: So what are we doing here again?
Jonathan: Teamster's union. Freight division. There’s an all-you-can-eat buffet.
Charlotte: Oh, joy.
Jon leads the way to a set of sliding double doors. He opens the dark wood doors to reveal . . .
A candle lit dinner for two.
Charlotte: Wrong room. No truckers.
Ben: (off screen) I think they had to reschedule. (Charlotte is surprised . . . ) Hello, darlin’.
Charlotte: ( . . . and delighted) Honey!
Jon takes her briefcase as Char goes to give Ben a hug.
Ben: You like it?
Charlotte: Are you kidding?
Ben: Good. ‘Cause I missed you.
Jonathan watches them. His expression tells us that he’s definitely an outsider, watching something he’d like to have, but knows he can’t.
Ben: (pushing Char’s chair in as she sits) And, as it turns out, you have time on your schedule for you husband after all. (Ben eyes Jon, not quite smug, but very glad he’s got his wife tonight.)
Charlotte mouths, “Thank you” to Jon.
As Ben opens the wine bottle . . .
Charlotte: So, I was all ready to start this luncheon with a sing-along of “Convoy.”
Ben: Go ahead. I’ll jump right in.
Charlotte laughs at Ben’s joke as Jon backs out of the room and slides the doors closed, giving them their privacy.
Blue dissolve to:
Interior, Catering kitchen:
Em is sprinkling topping on a cake, looking lost in thought. Stack comes in, puts on a apron, and sets to work.
VOJ: Why is it that we seem to want what we can’t touch most of all? Is it envy? Excitement? Or maybe it’s because our desires make noise that covers other things. Much worse things.
Em watches Stack behind her out of the corner of her eye.
Blue wash to:
Exterior, Sidewalk outside Finn’s building, Evening:
Max holds the door for Nona as they exit the building. Max is wearing his suede jacket and is carrying his black helmet. They stroll down the sidewalk, Max seeing her on her way.
Nona: (with a smile) Admit something to me. Back there in the elevator, did it cross your mind?
Max: Stopping between floors again? (With a big, mischievous smile) Yeah.
They pause in their walk, and Nona holds out her hand.
Nona: Thanks, Max. (He accepts her hand and shakes it.) For being there when I fell down.
Max nods.
Max: Thanks for helping me get the job with Finn.
She leans in and kisses him. She leans in and kisses him a second time; this time he holds her face for a moment before he breaks the kiss. (Silver thumb ring sighting. It’s like a new game.)
Nona: I’ll see ya around. (She crosses the street and is on her way.)
Max watches her go, then turns to see Maggie, who has apparently witnessed the whole thing—at least the kiss.
VOJ: I told myself I wanted to set Max up to make him happy. But it was mostly that I wanted to keep him from Maggie. If I can’t have her, neither can he.
Max walks up to Maggie.
Max: That wasn’t what it looked like.
Maggie: It’s okay, Max.
Max: Actually, we were saying goodbye.
Maggie: You don’t have to explain. (With a catch in her voice) We don’t owe each other that anymore.
And that’s a blow to Max. He watches her, then watches a black town car pull up to the curb. Whit gets out and asks Maggie, “Ready?”
Maggie looks at Max one last time, then leaves to get in the car with Whit.
VOJ: Really, all setting him up with Nona did was push Maggie closer to Gaunier.
Whit takes Maggie’s bag and moves around to the other side of the car.
Maggie pauses before climbing in.
Maggie: Goodbye, Max.
Max lifts his hand in goodbye and swallows a catch in his throat. I could cry for him.
VOJ: And now we’re all in the same boat. We should give it up.
Max watches the car pull away . . .
VOJ: But how do you give up the feeling that what you love is like gravity? That it’s the only thing holding you to the earth.
. . . and he’s left standing on the sidewalk alone with the city bustling around him.
Fade to BLACK
End Credits
Act IV
Fade up on:
Nona coming down the stairs, returning to the living room to find Max and Remmie sizing each other up.
Nona: (to Remmie) Hell, I thought you were gone till Friday.
Remmie: (definitely not happy) Yeah, well, plans changed.
Max: (his tone says he knows this was a mistake) I’m gonna go.
He heads for the door, but Nona grabs his arm.
Nona: Stay, Max. (To Remmie) I’m sorry. I didn’t want you to find out like this, obviously, but . . .
Remmie: (eyes darting between Nona and Max) But what?
Max is wide-eyed, his own gaze darting between Nona and Remmie. This could get ugly, and he wants out.
Nona: It just happened, Rem.
Max: I’m gonna leave.
Max tries again to make his exit, but Remmie grabs him by the front of his jacket and shoves him up against the door. Max’s hand goes up in self-defense, but he’s pinned pretty good.
Max: Look, man, I didn’t know the two of you were together, alright? If I did, nothing woulda happened.
Nona: (stepping between them) Remmie, he didn’t know.
Max: (trying to pull free Remmie’s grip) Let go, man. It’s not between you and me.
Nona: Remmie, he didn’t know!
Max: (twisting his arm free, trying to push Rem away) Let go, man.
Remmie: Get out of my house.
Nona: Max . . .
Max gives her a look, then let’s himself out the door, backing out until the door is between them, and he leaves.
Again, Jensen’s facial expressions tell the story. Max is hurt, probably feeling used, like he’s been had. Things seemed to be going well, and wham!
Cut to:
Close up of a pool table, racked pool balls ready to be broken.
Camera moves out to show:
Interior, Bar/Pool hall:
Em doing the breaking. Stack is behind her, waiting his turn.
Em: You run the table, and I’ll give you ten bucks.
Stack: (readying to take a shot) Ten bucks? What’s that, your allowance?
Em: My company is having some cash flow problems.
Stack: Well, my company’s got $380 bucks left on its MasterCard. I can front you a hundred. (He takes his shot.) See that? You could have made a C-note right there.
Em: (frowning at the horrible shot) Dude, you suck.
Stack: (stepping aside) Show me what you got. Twenty.
Em: Alright. (She takes her shot. It sounds wimpy—no cracking balls—and she groans.)
Stack: (lining up his next shot) I like your choice of venue, though. (He sinks a ball in the corner pocket.)
Em: (sipping her mug of beer) Yeah, um, a friend told me about this place. But you need a car to get here, so . . .
Stack: Well, now that you have the employee transport vehicle, you can go visit your friend the bartender any time. (He sinks another ball in the side pocket.) (Off Em’s puzzled frown) I saw you chatting him up earlier.
Em looks toward the bar; the tender smiles at her and nods.
Em: You saw me tell him how to mix a velvet hammer.
Stack sinks yet another in a corner pocket. He has cleared all his pool balls from the table.
Stack: (holding his hand out for payment) Twenty dollars.
Em: What??? Hustler! (And she slaps his outstretched hand, but after an initial glare, she smiles.)
Stack: (with a chuckle) How do you think I paid my way through cooking school?
Em: For real?
Stack: Yeah. When I wasn’t working in the kitchen of a nursing home. You’re lookin’ at the guy who invented pureed pizza, by the way.
Em grins. They’re both having a really good time.
Cut to:
Interior, Morgan Campaign dining area, Day:
The next day . . .
Ben is on the couch in the living room area, hunched over some papers on the coffee table doing paperwork of some sort. Charlotte and Jon are frantically packing up things from the table, and Daisy and Willa are watching.
Charlotte: (to Jon) You be going by the office before me?
Jonathan: Post office, then office.
Daisy: Mom! Willa and I want to take you on a hike this weekend. Just girls. You know, get you away from all your work. Work, work, work.
Willa: Yeah, refill the well, ya know?
Charlotte: Well, I’d love to, but I can’t.
Jonathan: We will be out of town.
Daisy: (uncomfortable with the idea) Where are you going?
Charlotte: Napa. One of Sullivan’s former mayors has an estate there, and he invited us to a weekend party.
Daisy: (even more uncomfortable) Uh, like, like sleeping there overnight?
Jonathan: Big endorsement. Lots of votes. (To Charlotte, as he takes a box of stuff) Uh, I will see you later.
Charlotte: Yes.
Daisy: Uh, Dad! So you’re going, right?
Ben turns on the couch toward the group behind him. His brow is furrowed in puzzlement.
Ben: (to Charlotte) You tell me about this?
Charlotte: I did.
Ben: Did you?
Charlotte: I think I did. (She throws him a kiss) Bye. (And is out the door.)
Daisy: (to her father) So go! Oh, Napa! That’s fun!
Ben: Naw, I gotta work.
And he turns back to his papers, leaving Daisy standing with her mouth agape in surprise.
Cut to:
Interior, Art gallery, Day:
Max enters through the front door to find Maggie painting a white wall green, using a paint brush. She’s wearing a bright pink top and black miniskirt. (He’s got his suede jacket on over a green Henley and black T.) He smiles fondly as he walks up behind her.
Max: You’re painting a wall.
Maggie: (smiling at him) I’m aware of that.
Max: Where’s my camera when I need it? This should be documented.
Maggie: We have a new exhibit next week. Thought I’d do a color test.
Max: It’s a big test.
Maggie: I got carried away. There’s something calming about painting. You don’t have to think.
Max: Clearly. (Max’s eyes dart to the wall and back to Maggie, his expression all mischief.)
Maggie: Shut up.
Max: I wanted to come by and let you know that I, uh, I got the job next door with Finn.
Maggie: Well, that’s great.
Max: Yeah.
Maggie: I knew you’d find something.
Max: So it looks like you’ll have a friend in the neighborhood after all.
Maggie: Good. (This is getting a little awkward. She can’t really look him in the eye.) Looks like you already have a friend in the neighborhood. (Off Max’s look) Your bike?
Max: Yeah, that. (He clears his throat) That didn’t really work out. I mean, she was a nice girl and all, but, I don’t know, (Maggie looks at him shyly) I guess I’m just not boyfriend material right now.
Maggie: (looking back to her painting) It’s weird how things get complicated so fast.
A pause while they exchange small smiles . . .
Max: Hey, you know the roller, Maggie, is what you use to cover bigger spaces. (He gestures painting up and down, then gestures to contrast and emphasize “bigger spaces.”)
Maggie: Yeah, okay. So use the roller.
Max: I think you just conned me into helping you paint this wall.
Maggie: (laughing) Not just this wall, buddy. We’re doing the whole joint.
Max looks around at the very large room.
Max: Where’s the, uh, big man when it comes to the dirty work, huh?
Maggie: Don’t. (beat) You’re the one who thought it was such a great idea me dating him.
Max: Yep. Sorry.
Maggie: (awkward subject avoided) Hey, watch the splatter. I’ve got to meet clients in these clothes later.
Max puts down the roller and starts taking off his jacket.
Maggie: What are you doing?
Max takes off his jacket, pulls his arms out of the sleeves of his Henley . . .
Maggie: You’re taking off your clothes.
Max: Figure why ruin your shirt, when, uh, I can ruin both of mine, huh?
. . . and he pulls it off over his head, leaving him in his black T (and adorably tossle-haired).
Max helps her pull the Henley over her head.
Max: There ya go.
Maggie: Careful. (She giggles) Wait. (It’s something of a challenge getting her own clothed arms through the sleeves.)
Max: Here. (He steps behind her and helps maneuver the neckline over her head. It’s silly and goofy and fun for both of them.) Watch your hair. (He pulls her hair long hair out of the shirt as she tries to pull the shirt down all the way.) Should I just not help?
Maggie: No, no. Help.
Max: Okay. (As Maggie continues giggling.) Watch your—
Whit enters to find this little scene going on, and Max and Maggie stop immediately, as if caught in the act of something.
Whit: Hey. (He is not happy.)
Max steps away from Maggie, standing straight (and looking darn fine in his black T and jeans), hands in his pockets.
Maggie: Hey. (Indicating the paint cans, drop cloth, etc.) Uh, sorry about this, it won’t be such a mess permanently.
Whit: No worries. I’ll be in the office making some calls.
Max and Maggie look at each other and smile awkwardly, obviously uncomfortable with the situation now.
Blue Wash to:
Establishing shot, Exterior, Maggie’s apartment, Night:
Cut to:
Interior, Maggie’s apartment:
Maggie opens the door and lets herself in.
Maggie: Need help?
Whit: No, no, I’m okay.
Behind her, Whit enters, carrying a very heavy crate.
He sets it heavily on the table with a sigh.
Whit: Well, thank you for letting me carry that up. It’s made my back feel wonderful.
Maggie: Uh, Whit? About earlier with Max . . .
Whit: Hey, Maggie, forget it.
Maggie: It just, he’s got a job right in the neighborhood now, and we’re trying to make the friend thing work.
Whit: As you should. Come here.
He leads her over to the couch, where they sit side by side. He pulls out a photograph to show her.
Whit: This is the view from your room in Barcelona. It’s one of my favorite places anywhere in the world. We have the whole of the top floor, a butler, and this roof garden with this incredibly fragrant, oh, I don’t know, jasmine or something.
Maggie looks less than excited.
Whit: You’re having second thoughts.
Maggie: (with a shrug) I’m feeling . . . I don’t know. Confused. (She tries to soften the blow with a smile.)
Whit: Okay. Barcelona’s not going to go anywhere.
He rises from the couch and steps away.
Maggie: But you might.
Whit: (turning toward her) Oh, I wouldn’t bet on it. You and Max need to, um, figure things out, but I’ll be around. Either to pick up the pieces, or, um, dance at your wedding.
Maggie: (sighing a laugh) Yeah. Don’t really see that in my future, me and Max.
Whit: Why not?
Maggie: (with a sigh) I don’t know. Uh, we have this connection, but . . . somehow things always get . . . hard.
Whit: So what are you doing?
Maggie looks at him. She has no answer, and I’m thinking he’s got a point.
Whit: Okay. You can get back to me on that.
He sits on the coffee table opposite her, taking her hands in his. (Her fishnet stockings are particularly highlighted in this shot. Huh.)
Whit: I’m a patient man.
Maggie: You’re so not patient.
Whit: True. But for you, I’ll learn to be.
Cut to:
Establishing shot, Morgan house, Night:
Cut to:
Interior, front hall:
The camera looks down from upstairs as Max comes in the front door. He heads to the stairs, where Daisy is sitting across them. She stretches out her legs to block her brother's way.
Daisy: (with mischief in her voice) You ain’t foolin’ anyone.
Max: (waiting to get past) I wasn’t aware I was trying to fool anyone.
Daisy: Well, good, ‘cause you ain’t. See, I’m all over what’s going on in this house.
Max: (completely confused) What are you talking about?
Daisy: (with a shrug, as she moves her legs so Max can get through) Just talkin’ about what’s upstairs.
Max shifts his gaze toward the bedrooms.
Cut to:
Interior, Max’s room:
Nona is there, looking at Max’s pictures that are displayed on his wall. Max stops short upon finding her there.
Nona: How’s the new gig working out?
Max throws out his arms in puzzled “bzuh?” surprise.
Nona: (her arms are crossed, very self-defensive as she steps away from the wall and moves toward Max) Look, don’t freak. Your sister let me in. I wanted to say I’m sorry, again, for not coming clean with you right away. (She shifts from foot to foot, puts her hands in her back pockets.)
Max nods his acceptance of the apology.
Max: We all make mistakes.
Nona: I know. But you’re not a mistake.
She steps right up to him, into his personal space. He shifts his eyes away and his brows squinch for a moment. She strokes the front of his jacket.
Nona: You’re not. I’m in love with you, Max.
Max: Nona . . . (He takes her wrist and removes her hand from his shoulder.)
Nona: I broke off my engagement. (To which Max and I both go, WT???) I’m free. For you.
Max is totally surprised and not a little dismayed, and Jensen plays it so well.
Fade to BLACK.
Act V
Interior, Morgan family room:
Ben is leaning back in a comfy chair, watching the news when Daisy comes in and sits on the coffee table right in front of the TV.
Daisy: Something really, really bad has happened.
Ben clicks off the TV, all of his attention on Daisy.
Ben: What is it?
Daisy: You have to promise not to get mad or hurt anybody.
Ben sits up and puts the remote on the coffee table.
Ben: What is it?
After a long pause . . .
Daisy: Jonathan is in love with Mom.
Ben’s expression says, “Oh.” This isn’t really what he was expecting.
Ben: And what makes you think that, exactly?
Daisy moves to sit next to her dad.
Daisy: I’ve been watching him. He just smiles too much around her. He’s way too into her.
Ben: Well, it’s his job to be into her.
Daisy: Not like this. (Off Ben’s considering look) You don’t believe me.
Ben: I just think you might be a little biased because he’s . . . not into you.
Daisy: Me. (Very serious, perhaps slightly freaked) I am so over him. He has absolutely breeched Mom’s professional trust.
Ben: Well, now, even if he does admire your mother, she can deal with it.
Daisy: Aren’t you gonna kick his ass?
Ben: (with a chuckle) No, I’m not. Just ignore him. That’s what I do.
Daisy: Some couples would have a problem with this.
Ben: Your mother and I are not some couple. We made it this far, didn’t we?
Daisy still looks worried.
Ben: Dais. We can handle a crush. (He reaches out, strokes her chin fondly with his thumb.) Small potatoes.
Daisy smiles, reassured.
Daisy: Okay. Okay. Ugh. I’m sorry for being such a freak. I want you guys to be okay.
Ben and Daisy hug sweetly, father having put daughter’s fears to rest.
Daisy: Thanks.
Ben: Mm-hm.
Daisy hops up and is on her way.
Cut to:
Jon on the phone in another part of the first floor (can’t really tell where).
Ben enters, and he definitely has something on his mind. As Jon hangs up the phone, Ben claps him on the back.
Ben: Need a word.
Jonathan is . . . startled by the seriousness of the tone, but he nods . . .
Cut to:
Interior, Max’s bedroom:
Nona sits on the bed as Max paces past her. He’s a little on the self-defensive, and his body language and hand gestures reflect that.
Max: Alright, listen to me. I did not tell you to break up with your fiancé.
Nona: Obviously if I fell for you, Max, I shouldn’t be getting married.
Max: Well, no. (He sits on his desk, puts his foot up on a chair.) I mean, if that’s true, no, but—Nona, we met each other, like, a week ago.
Nona: I knew it the second we met.
Max: That’s impossible.
Nona: You didn’t feel anything?
Max: Yeah, I felt something. I felt attraction, I liked you.
Nona: We connected.
Max: Yeah, but it wasn’t love. Man, I know what that feels like.
Nona: So do I.
Max: What about Remmie?
Nona: (with a sigh) It’s changed. I think we . . . I feel for him, obviously, but with you it’s totally different. (She stands and moves into his space, puts a hand on his shoulder.) It’s what I’ve been needing.
Max: (pushing her hand away) No, you feel like that now, but you pegged it. I’m the reset guy.
Nona: I thought we’d be that for each other, but . . . I’m just as freaked out as you are, Max. I didn’t expect it to be more.
Max gets up and walks around her, distancing himself, evading.
Max: Nona, I’ve been in the same situation, on your side of things, and I did the same thing.
Nona: To Just-An-Ex?
Max: Yeah. Maggie. Had nothin’ to do with—with the other girl. (He sits on his bed.) It was me. I was runnin’ away from somethin’ that was—that was too real.
Nona: (rushing to him, stroking his hair, the back of his head) Maybe that’s what you’re doing now.
Max: (looking up at her through her with those angsty ladykiller eyes) I don’t think so.
Nona lets her hand drop, and she steps back.
Nona: That’s it?
Max: I’m sorry.
Nona: Yeah. Me, too.
She leaves the room, leaving Max sitting on his bed.
Cut to:
Interior, Sports bar:
A group is gathered around the big screen TV watching football, while Em carries two bottles of beer to the pool table where Stack is taking a shot. The balls crack.
Em: Nice.
Stack: (accepting one of the bottles) Thanks.
Em: Thanks for joining me.
Stack: Thanks for the call. I’m always up for checkin’ out a new joint.
Em: Yeah, the last place smelled like pee.
She offers a toast with their beer.
Em: To a gig. Any gig.
They drink.
Em: I can’t wait for the world to find out how great your food is. Seriously. You’re due.
Stack: (nodding his appreciation) Yeah, this is gonna work. (They exchange a smile, then he gets a wee bit flustered.) We—our—our business. We make—we make a good team.
Em: Agreed.
The bartender calls to Em from behind the bar.
Bartender: Hey! I asked around about that guy you were looking for.
Em: (trying to blow it off, like she doesn’t want something getting out) Don’t worry about it.
Stack looks back at the tender, then at Em. And is she looking guilty. Reluctantly, she meets his eye.
Stack reacts. He’s been had.
Stack: Son of a— That guy. You mean Gideon, right? (He’s pissed. He turns to the bartender.) Yeah, man. Whadja find out?
Bartender: Uh, he owes the owner here a lot of money, but no one can find him.
Stack: (turns back to Em and tells her) No matter how hard they look.
He places his pool cue firmly on the table, grabs his jacket, and walks away.
Em: (hurrying after him) Stack . . .
Cut to:
Exterior, Outside the bar, Night:
Em, struggling into her coat, purse swinging behind her, follows Stack to his car.
Em: Stack. I was just trying to find out what happened to him. He mentioned these places.
Stack: (arriving at the car and turning on her) Why’d you jerk me around about this?
Em: Because I . . . I knew you’d get mad. And I never thought it would be so . . . fun. But it was.
Stack: (sarcasm is his friend here) Oh, how disappointing. To have fun with me.
Em: Stack, I feel awful. You’re the last person I’d ever want to hurt.
Stack: Right. Unless you need my car.
Em turns away; she has no comeback.
Stack: Hey, I’m not hurt. You can chase that dude around all you want. Makes no difference to me.
Em: (now on the defensive) I’m not chasing him.
Stack: Oh, right. Sorry. Stalking. And for what? He’s a con man.
Em: Stop trashing my boyfriend!
Stack: He’s not your boyfriend! Boyfriends take you out to dinner! They teach you kung-fu! They let you know if they’re actually alive or dead!
Em looks hurt, being called on the carpet like this (but I’m gonna have to go with Stack on this one).
Stack: But you’d rather have this—this drama than someone who’s—
He cuts himself off before he says too much, shakes his head.
Stack: Forget it. I’m an ass.
Em: No, I am. Don’t like me, Stack.
Stack: (as he unlocks the car) I don’t.
Em: (brow furrowed in distress, but the tears haven’t started yet) It’s just better if we keep things simple.
Stack: Agreed. Let’s keep ‘em simple. Taxi stand’s back there.
He climbs into the driver’s seat and slams the door. Em stands there, at a loss what to do. Stack hangs his head for a moment, then reaches over and opens the passenger’s side door.
Stack: Get in.
Em: (leaning in to see him) I’m sorry. I’m gonna take the taxi. (She closes the door and walks away.)
Stack sits in the car, fist clenched. He’s angry at himself. He knows he blew it.
Cut to:
Establishing shot:
Exterior, brick building, the building where Finn’s studio is located, Day:
Cut to:
Interior, Finn’s loft, Day:
Max has a camera opened in front of him on the table, a small screwdriver in his hand. He’s working diligently on whatever it is he’s doing when Nona comes in. (Wardrobe notes: Gray, abstract print T under gray sweat jacket with red and white stripes down the sleeve.)
Max looks up as he hears her footsteps.
Nona: Hi.
Max leans back in his chair, clearly not expecting the visit.
Max: Nona.
Nona: (crossing her arms in front of her) I’m sorry to just pop in like this.
Max: Naw, it’s . . . cool. (He rubs the side of his face, almost like he’s just woken up from a nap. He needs to shift his focus to his visitor.) Uh, actually I’ve been meaning to call you and see how—how you were. (He shifts his gaze, scratches his head nervously.) Come on in.
Nona: Thanks. (She enters the room and sits on the leather couch opposite Max.
Max: So how’re you doin’?
Nona: I wanted to tell you I’ve been thinking a lot about everything. What you said about looking at my own crap.
Max says nothing, an ear to listen.
Nona: The truth is, is that I’ve been terrified since the day Remmie asked me to marry him.
Max nods, leans forward, elbows on knees, looking for the right words.
Max: That’s normal, I’m sure.
Nona: I’m not crazy. I act like it sometimes, but I’m not. I really felt something here.
Max: Yeah, it’s just . . . I mean . . . (he huffs a sigh, runs his hand through his hair.)
Nona: Who can tell, anyway, you know? The circumstances are so messed up, I just . . .
Max looks at her (those killer eyes), looking very understanding, waits for her to continue.
Nona: I told Remmie this, too, I . . . I need time to get my life together for real. Alone.
Max nods.
Max: Maybe you should try yoga. (He offers her the tiniest smile at the joke.)
Nona smiles widely at him, appreciative of his understanding.
Cut to:
Interior, An old (Victorian?) house that’s been converted into a restaurant:
Sun streams in the door as Charlotte leads Jonathan into the foyer where the maître d' awaits.
Charlotte: So what are we doing here again?
Jonathan: Teamster's union. Freight division. There’s an all-you-can-eat buffet.
Charlotte: Oh, joy.
Jon leads the way to a set of sliding double doors. He opens the dark wood doors to reveal . . .
A candle lit dinner for two.
Charlotte: Wrong room. No truckers.
Ben: (off screen) I think they had to reschedule. (Charlotte is surprised . . . ) Hello, darlin’.
Charlotte: ( . . . and delighted) Honey!
Jon takes her briefcase as Char goes to give Ben a hug.
Ben: You like it?
Charlotte: Are you kidding?
Ben: Good. ‘Cause I missed you.
Jonathan watches them. His expression tells us that he’s definitely an outsider, watching something he’d like to have, but knows he can’t.
Ben: (pushing Char’s chair in as she sits) And, as it turns out, you have time on your schedule for you husband after all. (Ben eyes Jon, not quite smug, but very glad he’s got his wife tonight.)
Charlotte mouths, “Thank you” to Jon.
As Ben opens the wine bottle . . .
Charlotte: So, I was all ready to start this luncheon with a sing-along of “Convoy.”
Ben: Go ahead. I’ll jump right in.
Charlotte laughs at Ben’s joke as Jon backs out of the room and slides the doors closed, giving them their privacy.
Blue dissolve to:
Interior, Catering kitchen:
Em is sprinkling topping on a cake, looking lost in thought. Stack comes in, puts on a apron, and sets to work.
VOJ: Why is it that we seem to want what we can’t touch most of all? Is it envy? Excitement? Or maybe it’s because our desires make noise that covers other things. Much worse things.
Em watches Stack behind her out of the corner of her eye.
Blue wash to:
Exterior, Sidewalk outside Finn’s building, Evening:
Max holds the door for Nona as they exit the building. Max is wearing his suede jacket and is carrying his black helmet. They stroll down the sidewalk, Max seeing her on her way.
Nona: (with a smile) Admit something to me. Back there in the elevator, did it cross your mind?
Max: Stopping between floors again? (With a big, mischievous smile) Yeah.
They pause in their walk, and Nona holds out her hand.
Nona: Thanks, Max. (He accepts her hand and shakes it.) For being there when I fell down.
Max nods.
Max: Thanks for helping me get the job with Finn.
She leans in and kisses him. She leans in and kisses him a second time; this time he holds her face for a moment before he breaks the kiss. (Silver thumb ring sighting. It’s like a new game.)
Nona: I’ll see ya around. (She crosses the street and is on her way.)
Max watches her go, then turns to see Maggie, who has apparently witnessed the whole thing—at least the kiss.
VOJ: I told myself I wanted to set Max up to make him happy. But it was mostly that I wanted to keep him from Maggie. If I can’t have her, neither can he.
Max walks up to Maggie.
Max: That wasn’t what it looked like.
Maggie: It’s okay, Max.
Max: Actually, we were saying goodbye.
Maggie: You don’t have to explain. (With a catch in her voice) We don’t owe each other that anymore.
And that’s a blow to Max. He watches her, then watches a black town car pull up to the curb. Whit gets out and asks Maggie, “Ready?”
Maggie looks at Max one last time, then leaves to get in the car with Whit.
VOJ: Really, all setting him up with Nona did was push Maggie closer to Gaunier.
Whit takes Maggie’s bag and moves around to the other side of the car.
Maggie pauses before climbing in.
Maggie: Goodbye, Max.
Max lifts his hand in goodbye and swallows a catch in his throat. I could cry for him.
VOJ: And now we’re all in the same boat. We should give it up.
Max watches the car pull away . . .
VOJ: But how do you give up the feeling that what you love is like gravity? That it’s the only thing holding you to the earth.
. . . and he’s left standing on the sidewalk alone with the city bustling around him.
Fade to BLACK
End Credits
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That. is. an. incredible line! Damn! This is another reason why I feel this should be shared.
This belongs on a tee-shirt.
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I wish I could see this. *sigh*
And the way you describe his eyes? very nice.
How was the casting for Nona? Did she and Max seem to have some chemistry?
I have to say, Jake sounds a bit like a jerk.
Thanks again for the detailed transcription.
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Re: Jake . . . I believe it's in the pilot that Max says that Jake could be a real son of a bitch sometimes. And in one of the early eps, Charlotte states that the boys weren't even speaking to each other when Jake died.
That's one of the things that could have been really interesting had the show continued, an examination of Jake and Max's relationship. Max, as the younger brother, loving Jake, but also feeling like he was living in his shadow. Jake the "good son," as the pilot ep says. Jake who followed in his father's footsteps, vs. Max, who seems to be more artistic, more of a free spirit, wilder, and yet lacking in confidence when it comes to his sense of his place in the family. Ya know?:
You're welcome for the transcription. I'm getting to the point where I'm just transcribing the entire ep, because everything seems to feed into everything else in one way or another.
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