MEMORY
Written by
Michel Franco
29 April 2022
1 MONTAGE OVER CREDITS: 1
Male and female voices over black.
BRIAN (V.O.)
I remember, like yourself Sylvia, I
too came in. I was broken, I was
lost, and I was hopeless. With no
direction of where I was going to
go in my life.
JORGE (28, El Salvadorian) speaks with a pronounced accent.
JORGE
I remember I passed you. You were
riding your bicycle up a hill and
90 days sober. I remember thinking:
We all got our struggles, but we
don't need to get loaded over it.
LORRAINE (32) speaks, crying a bit.
LORRAINE
I'm here. I made it. I got here.
And I didn't even know what was
gonna be going on. But I'm happy to
see Anna. You're what I wish I
could have been. I wish my mom...
would have been as strong as you,
Sylvia.
2 INT. CHURCH HALL (SUNSET PARK) NIGHT 2
The surroundings blur as the camera focuses on KAREN.
KAREN
My dear Sylvia. Being your sponsor
has been a gift. I know you don't
like to hear this, but I really do
think you should find yourself a
person. So you don't end up alone
like me.
Karen immediately regrets oversharing. She starts again.
KAREN (cont'd)
I love you as if you were my own
daughter. Maybe because you're like
a child in many ways. I want to
take care of you. That's why I
don't want you to be alone. Anna
will grow up. She'll go away, to
make it on her own.
(MORE)
2.
KAREN (cont'd)
We've known each other for thirteen
years. That's longer than most
marriages nowadays.
Laughter and applause. Karen stares lovingly back at Sylvia.
John basks in the ensuing applause.
Close on EMILY, trembling - her pupils are dilated.
EMILY
I'm not going to say as much. I've
only known you for four days... but
I can tell how much everyone loves
you. I hope I can get to where you
are...
She bursts into tears.
Close on SYLVIA - slender, fragile looking, sweet smile,
baggy clothes - not someone who prioritizes her appearance.
Sylvia, celebrating 13 years of sobriety, responds.
SYLVIA
I'm very grateful for this space
and for all of you and definitely
nothing would be possible without
you. And I'm very grateful for my
daughter.
ANNA (13) Sylvia's daughter, a fresh and confident version
of her mother, aware of every detail, smiles - this is her
first time attending an AA event.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
How do you feel here?
Anna hugs her.
ANNA
Good.
Sylvia fights back the tears. Everyone's eyes are on her.
SYLVIA
Is it what you thought?
ANNA
Yes! I'm so proud of you.
Some members cry while others raise their phones to take
pictures of the moment.
3.
2A INT. CHURCH HALL (SUNSET PARK) NIGHT 2A
The members are picking up the chairs and getting ready to
leave. Sylvia is saying goodbye to the people.
KAREN
I'm glad you came, Anna.
AA MEMBER
Congratulations Sylvia! Good night.
KAREN
Let's have dinner later.
3 EXT. SYLVIA'S NEIGHBORHOOD. NIGHT 3
Sylvia and Anna arrive to their house in an Uber. They go
inside. The neighborhood is not so fancy.
INT. SYLVIA' S APARTMENT - KITCHEN. MORNING
4 4
Sylvia prepares two portions of freshly made dumplings. She
places them in plastic containers - they look professionally
made. Her movements are quick, precise, elegant.
Peeling paint and damp spots scar the walls of the old
house. Anna takes an apple out of the fridge.
ANNA
The fridge broke again?
SYLVIA
I called to have it fixed.
ANNA
It's seven thirty.
Anna eats the apple on the go - she's in a hurry.
A5 EXT. STREET / SCHOOL (SUNSET PARK). DAY A5
Sylvia and Anna rush to school through a grim-looking
neighborhood.
5 EXT. STREET / SCHOOL (SUNSET PARK). DAY 5
The school bell rings. Anna speeds up, leaving Sylvia
behind.
4.
Sylvia watches her daughter run into the school building.
She then crosses the street, and walks back in the direction
she came from.
6 INT. ADULT RESIDENCE - HALLWAY / OFFICE ROOM. DAY 6
Sylvia enters the hallway and greets a resident, ILYA, who
is happy to see her.
He presents her with a mimed bouquet of flowers which she
mimes taking off him, thanking him.
She heads into the office where Karen and T ARINA are sitting
at their desks. They greet her.
7 INT. ADULT RESIDENCE - MAIN ROOM. LATER 7
Sylvia leads a group stretch with a handful of residents.
7A INT. ADULT RESIDENCE - ROOM. LATER 7A
Sylvia is helping a resident, MARIO (30) to get ready to go
for a walk.
SYLVIA
If you're going outside, you need a
jacket, Mario. I know you have two
things but it is so cold. Do you
want to do it yourself?
Sylvia i s having trouble trying to convince Mario, so she
gives up and they walk outside. Sylvia carries the jacket.
8 INT. ADULT RESIDENCE - COMMON ROOM. TWO HOURS LATER 8
Sylvia and Karen are taking breakfast to the residents in
the common room.
Sylvia asks Karen for a break so she can go to check on Anna
at the school.
9 EXT. STREET / SCHOOL. DAY 9
Students crowd the patio during recess. Anna and her friends
sit on the steps leading to the school. Sylvia watches them
from a bench across the street.
Anna and Sylvia greet each other discretely from afar,
eating lunch at a distance.
5.
One of Anna's friends greets Sylvia obnoxiously. Anna smiles
through her discomfort. She can't tell whether her friends
are making fun of her mother.
A boy approaches Anna's group, chats with them, then leaves.
Sylvia watches closely. Her phone rings. She puts her boxed
lunch aside and answers.
SYLVIA
Hey... good... yeah. We had a good
time... I'm eating outside... No, I
don't go to school during rec ess
anymore... I swear I'm not outside.
Okay... Listen, could you lend me
some money to fix the fridge? It
broke again. Okay. See you in a
bit.
10 EXT. BEVERLY ROAD SUBWAY STATION (PROSPECT PARK SOUTH) DAY 10
Anna and Sylvia get out of the subway. The neighborhood is
noticeably different - mostly white faces, moms in work-out
clothes pushing strollers or walking their small dogs along
the pavement line d with high-end boutiques.
10A EXT. OLIVIA'S HOUSE. DAY 10A
Anna and Sylvia arrive at the house.
11 INT. OLIVIA'S HOUSE - KITCHEN. CONTINUOUS 11
Sylvia is in the kitchen.
OLIVIA
(to Lucy)
Wash your hands.
LUCY
I already did.
OLIVIA
You were playing with Rocco.
Lucy grudgingly washes her hands. Mark, Anna and Ashley come
down. Mark continues to tease Anna, asking her to take a
photo together for one of their frien ds. This makes Sylvia
visibly uncomfortable.
Olivia understands how anxious Sylvia gets when it comes to
her daughter.
6.
OLIVIA (cont'd)
(calling out)
Cut it out, Mark!
Mark gives it a rest, sitting at the kitchen counter.
OLIVIA (cont'd)
Are you staying for dinner?
SYLVIA
No, we'll eat at home.
OLIVIA
Are you going to the Woodbury event
on Friday?
Sylvia's expression is lackluster.
OLIVIA (cont'd)
Robert's not going.
Anna would like her mother to socialize more.
ANNA
I'll be your date if you want.
SYLVIA
Thank you, sweetie.
Sylvia sho ots Anna a look that says "don't butt into this".
OLIVIA
It'll be good for you to spend time
with...
She doesn't need to finish - the comment has already rubbed
Sylvia up the wrong way.
SYLVIA
People who aren't from AA?
OLIVIA
How did the anniversary meeting go?
Lucy runs to the table and sits back on her seat.
LUCY
What anniversary?
OLIVIA
Eat some salad.
SYLVIA
It was nice.
(MORE)
7.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
(to Anna)
Wasn't it?
Anna nods.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
I'll tell you about it later.
Sylvia knows Olivia only asked to be polite, and would not
appreciate an elaborate answer in front of the kids.
LUCY
What anniversary?
OLIVIA
Lucy, your food is getting cold.
The dog goes up to Anna and rests his head on her knee. She
strokes him.
12 INT. OLIVIA'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM / TV ROOM. LATE AFTERNOON 12
Sylvia i s having a cup of coffee on the sofa. The kids watch
TV.
Olivia comes over and hands Sylvia four hundred dollars in
small bills.
OLIVIA
You don't have to pay me back
right away. It's not Robert's
money.
SYLVIA
Have you become a drug dealer?
OLIVIA
The students pay me in cash. Count
it. It should all be there.
Sylvia puts away the money and smiles at Olivia.
OLIVIA (cont'd)
I've been meaning to tell you. Mom
k eeps asking about you and Anna.
SYLVIA
Is she staying long?
OLIVIA
What would she go back for? She
wasn't doing well without dad.
8.
Sylvia collapses onto the sofa and closes her eyes, wincing.
SYLVIA
Anna? We're leaving!
Olivia remains quiet.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Could you get me an aspirin?
Olivia goes to get one.
13 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT / KITCHEN. DAY 13
The doorbell rings. Sylvia answers the intercom in her
pajamas, still half asleep.
SYLVIA
Yes?
REFRIGERATOR REPAIR MAN (O.S.)
Hi ma'am... you've got a situation
with your fridge?
SYLVIA
I as ked for a repair woman...
REFRIGERATOR REPAIR MAN (O.S.)
She wasn't available today... do
you want me to leave?
SYLVIA
No.
Sylvia buzzes the repair man in and escorts him into the
kitchen to show the fridge.
Anna comes into the kitchen barefoot in a pair of shorts.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Go back to your room.
ANNA
But I'm thirsty.
Irritated, Anna grabs a glass and fills it with water from
the sink. Sylvia turns her attention back to the repair man.
Anna leaves the kitchen.
9.
14 INT. SIRICO - ENTRANCE HALL. DAY 14
Olivia and Sylvia walk into the foyer. About 200 people are
gathered for the Woodbury High school fundraiser.
Olivia excitedly greets an old classmate with a hug. Sylvia
stands back and keeps quiet.
OLIVIA
Rebecca!
REBECCA is obnoxiously happy to see Olivia.
OLIVIA (cont'd)
Has it been 15 years already??
REBECCA
More! I was pregnant -
REBECCA'S HUSBAND appears. Olivia h ugs him. They chat. Even
though Sylvia recognizes Rebecca, she stays silent and looks
around. She's clearly regretting having come.
REBECCA (cont'd)
Sylvia? I haven't seen you in ages!
SYLVIA
(polite)
Hi. Is your sister here? She told
me she was coming.
REBECCA
She canceled last minute.
SYLVIA
I was looking forward to seeing
her.
Olivia greets three girlfriends who are thrilled to see her.
Rebecca walks off to greet some other fellow classmates.
Sylvia leaves the group and enters the main room.
15 INT. SIRICO'S - BALLROOM. DAY 15
She moves through the crowd, and sits down at an empty
table. A WAITER approaches.
WAITER
What can I get you? We have red,
white -
10.
SYLVIA
Still water please.
The waiter leaves. Sylvia watches people having fun. Most of
them have just arrived, and greet their old classmates with
affection.
16 INT. SIRICO'S - BALLROOM. DAY 16
People are starting to get drunk. The mood is definitely
more relaxed. Olivia is having a conversation with a pair of
TWIN CLASSMATES, and tries to include Sylvia from time to
time.
TWIN 1
I'm sorry but she was t oo much of a
fat-ass to be the P.E teacher.
OLIVIA
Dance teacher.
TWIN 2
She taught both. Dance and P.E...
OLIVIA
Did you have her too?
SYLVIA
Yes. I think I had her for P.E but
not for dance.
TWIN 1
Dance was an elective. But it was
worth it because it clashed with
Chemistry, which I hated...
MEGAN, Olivia's classmate, interrupts to propose a toast.
Musicians are tuning their instruments behind her.
MEGAN
Hello, hi... I want to thank
everyone for coming tonight. It
really goes to show how supportive
you all are, after all these
years... it's just so great to
see...
Sylvia's eyes roam around the room and land on a man, SAUL,
who's staring at her from across the room. She smiles
briefly then looks away.
11.
MEGAN (cont'd)
I'm sure I'm not the only one who
can say I've missed this - I've
missed Woodbury High...
Sylvia sneaks a look back at the man. He's still got his
eyes fixed on her. She looks back at him, unnerved, as the
speech continues.
MEGAN (cont'd)
...and what's crazy is that it
really feels like no time has
passed at all. So let's raise a
glass to all of you wonderful
people who made high school that
joyful period that it was...
Sylvia turns her attention back towards Megan's speech,
avoiding the man's gaze, trying to focus on the words being
said.
16A INT. SIRICO'S - BALLROOM. LATER THAT NIGHT 16A
People are dancing to 80s music. Alone at her table, Sylvia
has to deal with Saul's permanent gaze. He hasn't looked
away once.
Olivia dances with a group on the dance-floor. She looks
back from ti me to time, checking on Sylvia, and signals for
her to join them. Sylvia doesn't feel like dancing.
Olivia gestures again for Sylvia to come over - but she's
interrupted by a friend offering everyone shots of tequila
on the dance-floor.
Sylvia keeps looking to check whether Saul is still staring
at her. He is. He's surrounded by a group of people,
including his brother ISAAC, but his eyes are fixed on
Sylvia.
Isaac moves away when a WOMAN approaches Saul and asks him
to dance. Saul accompanies her. Despite the fact that he's
dancing with the woman, he keeps staring at Sylvia.
An acquaintance greets the woman dancing with Saul. Saul
stops dancing. He remains motionless in the middle of the
dance-floor, eyes glued on Sylvia.
Freaked out, Sylvia stands up. She grabs her coat and purse,
storming ou t of the restaurant. Saul follows. Neither his
dance partner nor Isaac see him leave.
12.
17 EXT. SIRICO'S / STREETS (BENSONHURST). NIGHT 17
Sylvia shivers in the crisp November air.
She walks fast down the street, packed full of people
enjoying their Friday night.
18 EXT. 71ST STREET SUBWAY STATION (BENSONHURST). NIGHT 18
She doesn't realize Saul is following her until she reaches
the subway station. She quickens her step.
Saul shivers - he left his coat behind - but he continues to
follow S ylvia.
Sylvia taps her subway card on the reader and goes through
the barrier.
She heads up to the open-air platform. It's nearly empty
except for a sprinkling of three or four commuters.
Waiting on the platform, she sees Saul coming down the
stairs.
Sylvia moves away from him to stand further down the
platform.
A train arrives.
She quickly gets on.
19 INT. SUBWAY TRAIN. CONTINUOUS 19
Sylvia is sitting i n a near-empty subway car. Saul is
standing nearby, looking at her.
She shrinks into her seat and makes herself as small as she
can.
The train stops. Some people get on and off, but Saul stays
on. Sylvia moves to a seat further down the carriage.
20 INT. SUBWAY - PLATFORM. NIGHT 20
Sylvia gets off the train. She turns to see if Saul is still
following.
He gets off.
13.
21 EXT. SYLVIA'S NEIGHBORHOOD. NIGHT 21
Sylvia walks through her neighborhood.
Saul follows.
22 EXT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT. CONTINUOUS 22
Sylvia walks her street, opens the front door and gets
inside.
23 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - STAIRS / ANNA'S BEDROOM. 23
CONTINUOUS
She makes her way up the stairs in the dark and deactivates
the house alarm.
Sylvia goes to the window, peeking through the blinds. Saul
crosse s the street and looks up towards Anna's bedroom - the
only illuminated room in the house.
Sylvia turns off the light and shuts the blinds. She stands
by the window, spying on Saul from the side gap.
24 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - KITCHEN. NIGHT 24
Sylvia obsesses over dinner preparations. Anna walk towards
her bedroom.
ANNA
Mom, I will be in my room.
25 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - ANNA'S BEDROOM. NIGHT. 25
An na is looking through the window to the street. She
notices Saul.
Sylvia arrives and closes the curtains. She looks nervous.
SYLVIA
What are you doing honey? Stay
away, from the window. Please go to
bed.
Sylvia takes Anna to the bed and turns off the light.
14.
26 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - KITCHEN. NIGHT 26
Sylvia is washing the dishes, very anxious, in the kitchen.
She can't sleep.
27 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - SYLVIA'S BEDROOM / KITCHEN. LATER 27
Sylvia watches Saul from the window in her room. She takes
two sleeping pills out of a packet from the night table and
dials a number as she heads to the kitchen.
She pours herself a glass of water. The call goes t o
voicemail.
SYLVIA
Karen, I'm sorry to call this
late. I normally wouldn't but I
think I'm about to have a nervous
breakdown. I can't explain it over
voicemail... Anyway, just wanted to
see if you'd pick up, since you
usually can't sleep either... call
me back if you can, okay?
Sylvia hangs up and takes the pills. Her nerves make her
short of breath - tiny sips of the water are all she can
handle.
INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - SYLVIA'S BEDROOM. DAWN 28
28
Sylvia lies in bed. She hasn't slept a wink. She gets up and
walks up to the window. From the condensation on the glass
she can tell how cold it is outside. Saul is still sitting
on the curb, shaking uncontrollably.
29 EXT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT / STAIRWELL / KITCHEN. MORNING 29
Sylvia walks out the house in pajamas. She stops in the
middle of the street, keeping a safe distance from Saul.
SYLVIA
Get up.
Saul struggles to stand, he's practically frozen.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
What do you want?
Saul doesn't respond. Sylvia keeps the distance from him.
Anna comes downstairs, groggy, and sees Saul.
15.
ANNA
Mom?
Saul's eyes snap open.
SYLVIA
Go to your room!
Anna goes back upstairs - turning to steal a look back at
Saul, trying to figure out what's going on.
Saul shuts his eyes. He's losing consciousness.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Do you have your phone?
He mumbles something she can't make out.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Give me your phone.
He doesn't respond. He seems to be unconscious. She looks
for his phone in his pants and takes it out, using his face
to unlock it.
She searches for the most recent dialled number and calls.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Hello? Hi. I found Saul on the
street where I live... he was
outside in the cold... I have no
idea how he got here... yes, OK...
Sylvia. 264 39th Street. Yes, this
is my mobile.
Sylvia hangs up.
30 EXT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - STREET. 20 MINUTES LATER 30
Sylvia opens the front door.
ISAAC
Sylvia ? I'm Isaac. We spoke on the
phone?
Sylvia steps aside.
Saul's eyes open. He's not surprised to see his brother.
ISAAC (cont'd)
Saul... are you alright?
Saul is returning to his senses. Sylvia watches him closely.
16.
ISAAC (cont'd)
Let's go home.
Isaac checks Saul's temperature with the back of his hand,
clocking how cold Saul's skin is.
He helps Saul up and steadies him. He takes his coat off,
puts it over his brother's shoulders and guides him towards
the car.
Sylvia watches Isaac help Saul into the back seat.
Isaac comes back to talk to Sylvia.
ISAAC (cont'd)
I was going crazy looking for him.
I called the police bu t they won't
move until someone's missing for 48
hours.
Sylvia remains silent.
ISAAC (cont'd)
Thank you so much.
Isaac offers his hand, Sylvia shakes it, mechanically. He
hands her his business card.
ISAAC (cont'd)
If you ever need anything, please
call. You have my number. Thank you
for helping him.
Sylvia watches Isaac get back into the car and drive away.
She shuts the front door and looks back at Anna, who's been
quietly watching the entire scene.
31 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE - BATHROOM. DAY 31
Saul relaxes in a warm bath. He hears Isaac come in through
the door and opens his eyes, but doesn't move his head.
Saul gets out of the bath. Drying himself off, he sees his
reflection in the mirror. He avoids his own gaze - turning
away.
32 EXT. INDUSTRY CITY. DAY 32
Happy families enjoy their Sunday at the outdoor shop ping
centre. Isaac and Saul are sitting in a table outside a
coffee shop. There is tension between the two of them.
17.
SARA (22) Isaac's daughter arrives carrying a backpack.
SAUL
Sara!
SARA
You really scared us...
The remark does not upset Saul. He gets up and hugs her.
ISAAC
Would you like a cup of coffee?
SARA
Hi dad... no, I'm OK.
SAUL
Did you fly all the way here just
to see me?
SARA
Yes.
SAUL
You're both taking this too far.
SARA
You went missing for an entire
night!
ISAAC
It's a miracle you didn't catch
pneumonia.
SAUL
I have n't gotten sick in years.
ISAAC
He was lost a minute ago.
SAUL
I was not lost. I went to the
bathroom.
ISAAC
And you forgot how to get back.
SAUL
That's enough!
Saul's outburst provokes an uncomfortable silence. People
nearby turn to look.
18.
SARA
(to Saul)
He cried on the phone.
Isaac looks embarrassed, he did not want that bit of
information to go public.
ISAAC
I'll go get coffee.
Isaac leaves. Sara comforts Saul. He finds it hard to stay
angry at her.
SARA
Do you remember leaving the party?
SAUL
No.
SARA
Did you leave alone?
SAUL
I don't know.
Isaac returns empty-handed.
ISAAC
The line was too long.
Saul seizes the moment to change the subject.
SAUL
H ow's... P...P...
ISAAC
Providence.
SARA
Good. I like it there.
A pensive silence.
33 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM. DAY 33
Sara opens her suitcase and gives Saul a gift - a book of
Julian Schnabel paintings. Saul looks through it.
SAUL
I like it.
19.
SARA
I knew you would. He's one of my
favorites.
She gives him a vinyl of Brian Kelly songs. He puts it on
and they listen to it together, sitting on the sofa.
SAUL
It's good.
Sara takes something out of her bag and hangs it round
Saul's neck.
SAUL (cont'd)
What is this?
SARA
You have to wear it when you go
out.
He looks at it - it's a hand-made necklace with the house
address and Isaac's number on a card.
SAUL
I'm not wearing this.
She gives him a stern look.
SAUL (cont'd)
Okay. Can I wear it inside, at
least?
SARA
Sure. You can wear it inside.
34 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - SYLVIA'S BEDROOM. DAY 34
Sylvia is deep in thought, stretched out on her bed. The
house alarm beeps - someone's arrived.
Olivia walks into the room and sits on the bed next to her
sister.
OLIVIA
Anna told me what happened.
Anna stands in the doorway, looking concerned. She opens the
curtains.
SYLVIA
He followed me home from the
Woodbury party. He is one of Ben's
friends.
20.
OLIVIA
Are you sure?
SYLVIA
Why else would he follow me home?
OLIVIA
What's his name?
SYLVIA
Saul Shapiro.
Sylvia turns to Anna.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Do you want to stay with Olivia
tonight?
Anna agrees with her mom and leaves Olivia and Sylvia alone
in the room. Sylvia covers herself with the blankets and
continue sleeping.
Olivia stays sitting in the bed, watching her sister.
INT. SYLVIA'S HOUSE. BA THROOM. DAY
34A 34A
Sylvia is taking a shower. She seems very reflexive.
34B INT. SYLVIA'S HOUSE. BEDROOM. DAY. 34B
Sylvia is wearing comfortable clothes. She is searching
through her contacts to find Isaac's phone. She calls him.
SYLVIA
Hi Isaac. This is Sylvia, from...
The other morning I found Saul
outside my house... Yeah... I was
wondering if I can come visit you
today, if that's okay... Great.
Send me y our address... Thanks.
35 EXT. SAUL'S HOUSE. DAY 35
Sylvia walks towards Isaac and Saul's house.
She reaches the door, rings the bell.
36 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE. CONTINUOUS 36
Isaac opens the door. He recognizes Sylvia.
21.
ISAAC
Hello! Come on in...
Sylvia enters. The house is tastefully decorated. Sara is
nearby. Isaac closes the door behind them and introduces
Sylvia to his daughter.
ISAAC (cont'd)
This is my daughter, Sara.
Sara smiles and extends a hand. Sylvia shakes it, gripping
her purse tightly in the other.
ISAAC (cont'd)
Sylvia found Saul.
SYLVIA
I looked out my window in the
morning and saw him in the street.
Sara tr ies not to laugh.
SARA
(to Isaac)
How did he get there?
ISAAC
Thank God Sylvia found him.
SARA
I'll go get him.
Sara gives Sylvia a grateful smile. Sylvia is nervous. Isaac
figures she's shy.
ISAAC
Can I offer you anything to drink?
SYLVIA
No, thanks. I have to head to work
soon.
ISAAC
On a Saturday?
SYLVIA
I work at a residence for people *
with developmental disabilities.
Sara returns with Saul. Though shy, he's visibly happy to
see Sylvia.
SAUL
Hello.
22.
SARA
Sylvia.
SAUL
I know her name.
Sylvia's face turns red - her resentment misinterpreted for
timidity.
SAUL (cont'd)
I apologize if I made you feel
uncomfortable the other night.
SYLVIA
It's fine.
SAUL
Come. Sit down.
Sylvia hesitates but follows Sara and Isaac into the living
room.
SAUL (cont'd)
I forget things. Recent things.
It's an awkward moment met with silence.
SAUL (cont'd)
I'll get you a glass of water.
Sa ul leaves. Sylvia looks uncomfortable. She, Sara and Isaac
sit in silence.
ISAAC
He has dementia.
SARA
He remembers things from years ago
but forgets immediate events.
ISAAC
Our childhood. Our parents...
SARA
The more recent, the less he
remembers.
SYLVIA
He remembered me.
ISAAC
Sometimes he's good for weeks and
(MORE)
23.
ISAAC (cont'd)
remembers everything. Then
something like the other night
happens. We're not sure why that
is.
Saul returns with two glasses of water, hands one to Sylvia.
SYLVIA
Do you remember how you got to my
house?
SAUL
I remember being on the
subway. I remember your daughter's
long hair. I remember your house...
but I don't know how
I got there, no.
ISAAC
Do you remember the Woodbury party?
SAUL
I don't r ecall it being the same
day...
Sara notices her uncle look uncomfortable. She changes the
subject.
SARA
(to Sylvia)
They still work together. They're
accountants.
SAUL
Actually, I'm his boss. And this is
my house.
Though Isaac seems a bit annoyed by this, they all laugh in
unison.
ISAAC
He's the big brother. We have an
accounting firm.
SAUL
I hardly work anymore.
Sylvia forces a smile.
37 EXT. RUNDOWN PARK. DAY 37
Sa ul and Sylvia stroll through a rundown park. A few
homeless people amble around.
24.
SYLVIA
It's changed a lot right?
Saul looks around.
SAUL
I guess it needs some taking
care of.
SYLVIA
I used to play here when I was
little.
Saul nods.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
It was nicer then.
They walk in silence.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Do you remember things that
happened a long time ago?
SAUL
Yes.
SYLVIA
Okay.
SAUL
I think about my wife. I replay
things from childhood. My parents.
My cousins. Holidays.
SYLVIA
What about school?
SAU L
I remember school.
She sits down on a bench. He joins her.
SYLVIA
What school did you go to?
SAUL
Woodbury.
SYLVIA
So did I.
SAUL
What! Really??
25.
SYLVIA
Don't you remember me?
SAUL
No.
SYLVIA
We've both changed after so many
years.
SAUL
We didn't go to school together.
SYLVIA
I remember you perfectly.
This surprises Saul. He realizes Sylvia is upset. He holds
her gaze, trying to figure her out.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
You really don't remember me?
SAUL
No.
SYLVIA
Do you remember Ben Goldberg?
SAUL
Yes. We were in the same class.
SYLVIA
Ben used to get me drunk after
sc hool. I was twelve, he was 17.
Saul pays close attention. Sylvia pauses, overcoming her
anger.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
He liked raping me. He liked
forcing me to give him blow jobs.
SAUL
Ben?
SYLVIA
Sometimes he was alone. Other times
he wasn't.
Saul finds this shocking.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Don't you remember?
26.
SAUL
I remember Ben.
SYLVIA
You don't remember being with him
and making me suck your dick?
SAUL
What?
SYLVIA
You said you remember school.
SAUL
I don't remember.
SYLVIA
Why did you follow me home after
the party?
Saul is troubled by Sylvia's pain, as much as by the
accusation.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Do you remember the Woodbury party
last week?
Saul makes an effort.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Do you remember following me home?
SAUL
I re member the party because Isaac
showed me pictures. I remember you
finding me on the street outside
your house.
SYLVIA
You followed me home.
SAUL
From where?
SYLVIA
From the Woodbury party!
SAUL
You were at Woodbury party?
SYLVIA
You followed me home from the
Woodbury party.
27.
Saul tries to process everything.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
And you sexually abused me when I
was twelve and you were seventeen
or eighteen.
SAUL
Are you sure?
SYLVIA
Do you like thinking about what you
used to do to me?
Instead of getting defensive, Saul tries to remember.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Or do you only remember when it's
convenient??
The harder he tries, the angrier Sylvia grows.
SAUL
I don't remember.
SYLVIA
You deserve b eing the way you are.
Sylvia rips Sara's identification card from his neck. Saul
is confused.
She takes off without looking back. Saul stands but does not
follow. He watches her leave.
38 INT. SUBWAY STATION. AFTERNOON. 38
Sylvia is coming back to her house. She is waiting for the
subway at the station. The train arrives and she stands up
to get in but she hesitates and doesn't enter.
The subway doors c lose. Sylvia stays alone in the station.
39 EXT. RUNDOWN PARK. DUSK. 39
Sylvia is back in the park. Saul is no longer sitting on the
bench. She checks everywhere but the park is empty.
SYLVIA
Saul! Saul!
Anxious, she takes out her phone and dials a number. It goes
straight to voicemail.
28.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Hey, Isaac. It's Sylvia. Could you
call me back please? Thanks.
40 EXT. RUNDOWN PARK - GARBAGE BINS. END OF DAY 40
Saul is urinating against the wall behind some large
industrial bins. A few homeless men are milling around in
the background.
Sylvia sees Saul from the distance and she walks towards
him, relieved. Saul stands still watching her.
As Saul walks towards Sylvia she turns and wa lks out of his
reach.
Saul notices she's been crying. He walks a few feet behind
her. His phone rings. Sylvia takes it out of her purse and
hands it to him.
SAUL
Isaac... fine. We went for coffee
and a long walk. We're on our way
back home... she called to tell you
that we'd be a while... yeah, she's
here. See you.
Saul ends the call. He follows Sylvia, who watches him from
the corner of her eye.
IN T. SAUL'S HOUSE - STUDY. DAY
41 41
Saul examines a picture of Ben Goldberg in his school
yearbook. He listens to the song A Whiter Shade of Pale by
Procol Harum.
There's a picture of Saul on the same page. He analyzes both
photos, jotting things down in his notebook.
He turns the yearbook pages, looking for a photo of Sylvia,
but doesn't find one.
42 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT. DAY 42
Sylvia is asleep on the sofa after a late-night binge. Empty
packets of crisps, peanuts, pretzels and biscuits lie around
her.
The doorbell rings. She wakes, groggy and answers the
intercom.
29.
SARA (O.S)
Hi, it's Sara... Saul's niece. Can
I come in?
Sylvia buzzes her up. She smooths her hair as Sara comes in.
SARA
I'm sorry... were you sleeping?
SYLVIA
Oh. No. Don't worry.
SARA
So I know this may be random but
I'm leaving today. I study in
Boston, and... since you and Saul
got along, my dad and I thought
maybe you could care for my uncle
during the day.
SYLVIA
I'm not a nurse.
SARA
He doesn't want a nurse. You'd only
have to be there. Take walks...
SYLVIA
I don't think I can.
SARA
We could pay you full-time.
Sylvia considers this.
SARA (cont'd)
He talks about you a lot.
SYLVIA
Let me think about it. I'll call
your dad.
SARA
Here.
Sara takes out some cash from her wallet.
SARA (cont'd)
We'll pay in advance. In cash. Even
if you say no, we'd like you to
keep the money as a gesture of
thanks for helping my uncl e...
Sylvia doesn't accept the envelope.
30.
SARA (cont'd)
You could try it for a few
afternoons...
She proffers the money again. Sylvia takes it.
43 INT. ADULT RESIDENCE. DAY 43
Sylvia is absent-minded, washing some dishes at the adult
residence. She doesn't care much about what's happening
around.
44 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT. NIGHT 44
Sylvia sits, thinking.
45 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - ANNA'S BEDROOM. NIGHT 45
Sylvia scours every corner of Anna's room. She organizes her
daughter's drawers and closet. She can't help but looking
through Anna's stuff. She finds a joint in Anna's pencil
case.
She attempts to log into Anna's computer but the password is
invalid.
46 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT. MORNING 46
Sylvia has been up all night cleaning. She cleans her
bedroom.
She hears the house alarm beep. Anna and Olivia have come
in.
Sylvia goes to greet them. Anna r uns to her bedroom.
SYLVIA
I decided to make the most of it
and got the whole house clean...
Anna yells from her bedroom.
ANNA (O.S.)
You went through my stuff!
SYLVIA
I organized.
Anna comes back. She raises her voice, upset, trying to get
Olivia on her side.
31.
ANNA
Why were you spying on me?
SYLVIA
I found a joint in your pencil
case.
Olivia wants no part in this. Anna knows she's in trouble.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
I want to see what's on your
computer. You changed the password.
ANNA
You don't need to see what's on my
computer.
SYLVIA
Stop talking back!
ANNA
I hate my life!
Anna storms out of the house, slamming the door.
SYLVIA
(to Olivia)
Am I wrong?
Olivia doesn't answer.
Sylvi a sits down and shuts her eyes, suddenly overcome with
exhaustion.
47 INT. CHURCH HALL (SUNSET PARK). NIGHT 47
At an AA meeting Sylvia sits next to Emily who talks through
sobs. Sylvia looks at her, but her mind is elsewhere.
EMILY
...without even asking. Last
month... I didn't care if my
parents found out. It would have
been better if they had... I just
didn't care. With who or where it
was... I'd have sex... when I went
to get tested, I was sure I'd get a
positive somewhere...
Karen hands Sylvia a cup of tea, pulling Sylvia back into
the room. She rubs Sylvia's shoulder, supportive.
32.
48 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT. LIVING ROOM. DAY. 48
Sylvia is looking through messages in the living room.
Olivia enters the house and gives her a cup of coffee.
OLIVIA
You never met Saul at school...
SYLVIA
What?
OLIVIA
Saul's family are from Reading.
They moved in `86 - the year you
stopped going to Woodbury.
SYLVIA
How do you know?
OLIVIA
Yearbooks, phone calls.
Sylvia looks upset. But that makes her think about it.
Olivia feels pity about her sister and leaves.
49 INT / EXT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT / OLIVIA'S CAR - DAY. 49
Olivia exits her sister's house and jumps into her SUV in
the backseat. The chauffer starts driving. In the backseat
is SAMANTHA (70), Olivia and Sylvia's fancy mother. Olivia
looks through the window, worried.
SAMANTHA
How is she? Is she doing better?
Olivia nods.
SAMANTHA (cont'd)
Great.
Samantha is not so happy about the place where her daughter
lives.
SAMANTHA (cont'd)
I don't love this neighborhood. Is
it even safe around here for Anna
to grow up?... I'd be happy to give
them some money so they can move to
a better place.
33.
OLIVIA
We've offered.
SAMANTHA
Have you? You're such a good
sister. Thank you. That's nice.
OLIVIA
It's nice in the inside. It's very
sweet.
50 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE - HALLWAY / LIVING ROOM. DAY. 50
SYLVIA
Saul.
ISAAC (O.S.)
Who is it?
SAUL
Sylvia!
Sylvia doesn't say anything.
SAUL (cont'd)
Would you like to come in?
She enters. Saul closes the door behind her. Isaac arrives,
his presence easing the tension.
ISAAC
I thought you couldn't come today.
SYLVIA
I can stay if you'd like.
ISAAC
Great. I'll get my shoes.
Isaac leaves - the tension returns.
They walk into the living room. Saul sits down. Sylvia sits
across from him. Isaac rushes past the living room, talking
on his mobile phone. He gestures goodbye and leaves,
slamming the door on his way out.
Saul grabs his notebook. He reads through the notes he's
taken dow n.
SYLVIA
I made a mistake. It wasn't you.
Saul is relieved. He wants to clear the air.
34.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
You registered in `86, which is the
year my parents made me switch
schools. My mom didn't believe me
when I told her about Ben. She
thought it'd be easier to put me in
a different school. You and I had
never seen each other before the
other night.
SAUL
I remember Ben.
SYLVIA
You had nothing to do with it.
Saul takes out his notebook and starts to write.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
What are you doing?
SAU L
I'm writing it down so I can
remember. Is that OK?
SYLVIA
OK...
SAUL
Why didn't your mom believe you?
Sylvia is quiet.
SAUL (cont'd)
Do you feel like talking about it?
SYLVIA
Why did you follow me the other
night?
SAUL
I don't know.
He feels uncomfortable not knowing - he hates his condition.
SAUL (cont'd)
I don't remember.
Silence. Sylvia laughs out loud. Saul doesn't understand
why. Then he understands the whole situation is absurd, and
smiles.
35.
51 INT. ELECTRONICS STORE. DAY 51
Through a store window we see Sylvia comparing two mobile
phones, a sales girl standing nearby.
52 INT. OLIVIA'S HOUSE. DAY 52
Sylvia rings the doorbell, holding a gift bag. Mark opens.
MARK
Hi.
He runs back to the sofa, where he's watching TV with Anna,
Ashley, Robert and Olivia. Sylvia approaches them. Olivia
meets her halfway, greeting her sister with a kiss.
Anna is sti ll mad - she ignores her mom.
ASHLEY
Hi.
ROBERT
Sylvia, hello.
Robert attempts to be nice but doesn't stand to greet her.
SYLVIA
Anna.
Sylvia approaches Anna. Anna's behavior changes when her
mother hands her a new iPhone.
ANNA
Mom!
She tears it open.
SYLVIA
Forgive me?
Anna gives her mother a kiss.
ANNA
How could you afford this?
SYLVIA
I got a second job.
OLIVIA
What kind of a job?
SYLVIA
I'm working with the guy tha t
(MORE)
36.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
followed me home after the Woodbury
event.
Ashley joins Anna as she takes her iPhone out of its
packaging and sets it up. Sylvia is pleased - she needs to
be at peace with Anna.
Mark feels the good mood in the room and he decides to ask
Sylvia something.
MARK
I was wondering if Anna could come
to a party on Friday?
SYLVIA
Are there gonna be other kids your
age there?
MARK
Yes.
SYLVIA
Then no.
ANNA
Told you.
ASHLEY
Would you like something to drink
Syl?
Robert gives Olivia a disapproving look.
LUCY
Want a beer, Aunt Sylvia?
SYLVIA
No, thank you.
LUCY
Why don't you ever drink beer?
SYLVIA
Because I'm an alcoholic Lucy.
ROBERT
Sylvia...
SYLVIA
She asked a question.
While Robert disapproves, Olivia doesn't budge - she thinks
it's important that her children understand Sylvia's
condition.
37.
ASHLEY
What happens if you drink just one?
SYLVIA
I'll relapse. I haven't had a drink
in thirteen years.
ASHLEY
Since Anna was born?
SYLVIA
She's the reason I stopped.
ROBERT
This conversation's over.
MARK
Did you take drugs or did you just
drink?
ROBERT
That's enough!
ANNA
Let's go.
Anna puts on her shoes and heads for the door without saying
goodbye. Robert turns the volume up on the television.
INT. SAUL'S H OUSE - KITCHEN. DAY
53 53
Sylvia puts the finishing touches on an elaborate dish she's
just made. She takes it to the kitchen counter where Saul is
waiting and checks to make sure it isn't too hot. Saul eats,
enjoying the meal.
SAUL
This is delicious.
Pleased by the compliment, Sylvia serves herself a plate and
joins Saul.
SYLVIA
What should we do after lunch?
SAUL
Whatever you feel like doing.
SYLVIA
Would you l ike to watch a film?
SAUL
Yes.
38.
54 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE - STUDY. DAY 54
Saul and Sylvia watch a movie.
SYLVIA
I'm going to the bathroom.
SAUL
Pause the film.
SYLVIA
It's fine. I'll be quick.
Saul watches her walk away before turning his attention back
to the film. An entire scene finishes by the time she gets
back.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
So what happened?
Saul squints at her.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Could they open the car?
SAUL
Rewind it if you want.
Sylvia rewind s to the scene, watching Saul from the corner
of her eye. She's thinking about something other than the
film.
SYLVIA
Are you enjoying the film?
SAUL
Yes.
They pretend to watch.
SAUL (cont'd)
I don't understand anything. I
can't watch films.
SYLVIA
Why didn't you tell me?
SAUL
So you could watch it.
Sylvia is at a loss. They continue watching the film for a
moment, stealing glances at one another. Saul starts
la ughing. Sylvia joins in.
39.
55 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE - STUDY. LATE AFTERNOON 55
While Saul naps on the sofa, Sylvia goes through family
albums. She wants to know more about him. It becomes clear
that Saul's ex-wife and Sylvia have a strong resemblance -
same figure, same hair color and hairstyle.
She finds a Vinyl on the player - A Whiter Shade of Pale.
The record sleeve has a dedication from Saul's ex-wife.
Holiday photos: young Is aac with his wife and little Sara,
Saul and his wife at the beach.
Photos of Saul's university graduation.
Photos of African landscapes: twenty year-old Saul posing
for a photo, backpack hanging off one shoulder.
Sylvia puts the photo album back on the shelf. She picks up
a school yearbook. She discovers a photo of Saul when he was
seventeen. She turns to look at him and compares him to the
photograp h.
She examines photos of other students. Little by little,
falling back into the trap of old thoughts and memories.
56 INT. OLIVIA'S HOUSE. DAY 56
Anna and Ashley hold a rope for Lucy, showing her how to
jump the rope.
Samantha comes in carrying shopping bags. Ashley and Lucy
run up to greet her. They kiss their grandmother and take
the bags from her, then run back to join Anna.
ROBERT
Thanks Samantha.
SA MANTHA
My pleasure.
Anna looks nervous, not sure what to do.
SAMANTHA (cont'd)
Hi Anna. I would have gotten you a
present too...
OLIVIA
To get Sylvia even more upset?
SAMANTHA
Should I leave?
40.
OLIVIA
No mom... would you like some
coffee?
SAMANTHA
Yes.
OLIVIA
Anna?
ANNA
A coke.
Olivia heads into the kitchen.
ROBERT
Were you able to make the Airbnb a
long term rental?
SAMANTHA
I talked to the owner. He's
formalizing it.
Samantha pulls up a chair so Anna can sit next to her.
Robert joins Olivia in the kitchen.
SAMANTHA (cont'd)
I've seen pictures of you, Anna.
Olivia shows them to me. It's so
nice to fina lly see you in person.
Anna knows she shouldn't be talking to her grandmother.
SAMANTHA (cont'd)
You look like your mother.
ANNA
We all look alike.
SAMANTHA
Thank goodness no one took after
your grandpa.
Samantha is kidding.
SAMANTHA (cont'd)
May he rest in peace.
Anna smiles. Robert and Olivia come back with drinks.
SAMANTHA (cont'd)
I'll have my coffee and get going.
I don't want to upset your mom.
41.
ANNA
I won't tell.
Lucy joins them in the dining room. She wears a new shirt.
Ashley takes a bit longer to show off her new coat. Samantha
makes them twirl - taking pleasure in how they look wearing
their gifts.
Lucy takes her grandmother by the hand and guides her back
to her room.
LUCY
Come to my room and I'll show you
the rest...
Samantha lets herself be guided. Ashley follows.
ASHLEY
(to Anna)
Come on!
Anna follows.
57 INT. SUSHI RESTAURANT. NIGHT 57
The waiter finishes taking Sylvia and Anna's order at the
bar.
WAITER
One eel bowl, marinated Tuna roll,
one edamame and two miso soups.
ANNA
Yes.
The waiter leaves.
ANNA (cont'd)
How's your new job?
SYLVIA
Great.
ANNA
Are you gonna stop working at the
residence?
SYLVIA
No, but I'll be taking care of Saul
on the weekends, too.
A YOUNG WAITER, handsome and young, arrives holding a
pitcher.
42.
YOUNG WAITER
Would you like some water?
ANNA
Yes, please.
YOUNG WAITER
With or without ice?
ANNA
Without... actually with.
They smile at each other.
SYLVIA
(to the young waiter)
How old are you?
YOUNG WAITER
Fifteen.
SYLVIA
What are you doing working at
night?
YOUNG WAITER
It's my dad's restaurant... with or
without ice?
SYLVIA
Without.
As he pours water in Sylvia's glass he and Anna smile at
each other. He leaves. Their mutual attraction is obvious -
Sylvia is taken aback. The moment becomes uncomfortable.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
That kid's a character...
Anna smiles.
ANNA
I want to go on a date.
Sylvia's mood shifts.
SYLVIA
Don't start. We've talked about
this.
ANNA
He's in my class. I'm the only girl
in my class who doesn't have a
boyfriend.
43.
SYLVIA
What would you do with a boyfriend?
ANNA
Forget it mom.
Another waiter arrives and pours each of them a cup of green
tea.
58 EXT. SAUL'S HOUSE. DAY 58
It's Saturday. Sylvia rushes towards Saul's house, talking
on the phone.
SYLVIA
Yes... I'm here... Okay.
Isaac is giving her directions on the other end of the line.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
I see them...
Reaching behind a potted plant, she picks up the house keys
and opens the front door.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
I'm opening the door... okay. Bye.
She ends the call, walks inside and shuts the door.
59 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE - HALLWAY / BATHROOM / SAUL'S BEDROOM. 59
SYLVIA
Hello! I'm here!
No answer. Sylvia heads for Saul's bedroom. He's not there.
She hears the sound of the shower running.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
I'm here! I...
She hears a groan. She hesitates before opening the bathroom
do or, until the sound of Saul's groaning grows more
alarming.
She walks in and finds Saul in a foetal position on the
floor of the shower, disoriented. She goes to help him up.
He looks at her, confused.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Where are you hurt?
44.
He doesn't answer. He manages to get to his feet. They make
it to the bed. She checks his body, doesn't find any damage.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Did you hit your head?
She continues looking for a surface wound, but everything
looks fine.
She goes to the bathroom and turns the shower off. When she
gets back she finds him stretched out naked on the bed. She
covers him with a sheet and examines his pupils.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
Can you hear me?
SAUL
Yes.
SYLVIA
I'm calling Isaac so he can send in
a doctor.
SAUL
No.
Saul sits up on the bed.
SAUL (cont'd)
I'm okay now.
SYLVIA
How long have you been lying there?
SAUL
I don't know.
He looks anguished but makes an effort to show he's okay.
SAUL (cont'd)
I'll get dressed. Don't worry.
SYLVIA
Are you sure?
SAUL
Yes. I'm hungry.
His behavior reassures Sylvia - but now his nudity makes her
unco mfortable.
SYLVIA
I'll see you in the kitchen.
45.
SAUL
Thank you.
Sylvia leaves. Saul is angry with himself. He slowly gets to
his feet.
He goes to the dressing room, and picks clothes. He looks at
his reflection in the mirror as he gets dressed. Upon
examination, he decides he looks like a stranger - one he
wouldn't like.
60 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE. KITCHEN. DAY 60
Sylvia and Saul are washing the dishes. They're listening to
"A whiter shade of pale" by Proc ol Harum. Saul is telling
Sylvia some fun facts about the songs and he talks about his
wife.
SYLVIA
I didn't know you were married.
SAUL
I was. She passed away a long time
ago.
SYLVIA
I'm sorry.
There's an awkward silence in the kitchen.
61 INT. OLIVIA'S HOUSE. NIGHT. 61
INSERT PHONE SCREEN: PICTURES OF KIDS ON WHEELCHAIRS.
Anna is looking at the pictures. In some of them Samantha is
hugging the kids.
SA MANTHA
I want to do the same here. I've
been in contact with a few
organizations.
ANNA
You pay for the wheelchairs?
SAMANTHA
I find the donors.
ANNA
Are you staying here, for sure?
46.
SAMANTHA
It doesn't make sense for me to go
back to Miami when you're here.
What would I go back for?
ANNA
When did Grandpa pass away?
SAMANTHA
Less than a year ago.
Anna looks at the pictures.
ANNA
Why did you and mom stop talking?
SAMANTHA
Your mother was out drinking and
going out with boys when she was
your age. She was out of control, I
couldn't handle her. She kept
lying. She would then ask me to
stand up for her and for the things
she did while she was drunk...
ANNA
Lying?
SAMANTHA
She kept making things up... it's
similar to what happened with that
man she's working for now.
Anna doesn't see what her grandmother is getting at.
Samantha elaborates.
SAMANTHA (cont'd)
Your mother accused him for
something he wasn't guilty of...
She's always been hard to deal
with.
ANNA
Not with me.
SAMANTHA
That's different, s he's a good
mother. Though maybe a bit
controlling with you, isn't she?
ANNA
Maybe.
47.
SAMANTHA
I'd say not allowing you and I to
see each other is controlling.
ANNA
You stopped talking because of what
happened to her in school?
SAMANTHA
When I stopped standing up for the
things she lied about, she stopped
talking to us.
Anna feels bad letting her mother be talked about in this
way. She considers what her grandmother has said.
62 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE - KITCHEN. NIGHT 62
Saul listens music while eating on the kitchen counter and
writing some notes in his notebook. Sylvia does the dishes.
Isaac hurries inside.
ISAAC
I'm sorry I'm late... is everything
OK?
SYLVIA
Yes, but now I'm running late
myself.
Isaac pulls out a set of keys, places them on the counter.
ISAAC
It's better if you have your own.
SYLVIA
There's leftover pasta if you're
hungry. My daughter is waiting for
me.
Sylvia readies herself to le ave. She grabs the keys, looks
for her purse.
ISAAC
Could you come tomorrow?
SYLVIA
Only if I can bring my daughter.
ISAAC
Of course.
48.
SYLVIA
See you tomorrow.
SAUL
Thank you.
Sylvia and Saul exchange smiles. She leaves.
63 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE. DAY 63
Sylvia watches Anna and Saul play GUESS WHO.
ANNA
Does he have a mustache?
SAUL
No.
Anna eliminates three characters.
SAUL (cont'd)
Is it a man?
ANNA
Yes.
Saul eliminates half of the characters.
ANNA (cont'd)
Does he have a hat?
SAUL
Yes.
Anna eliminates four characters.
SAUL (cont'd)
Is he a redhead?
ANNA
Yes.
S aul eliminates all but three of the characters.
ANNA (cont'd)
Does he wear glasses?
SAUL
No.
An alarm sounds on Sylvia's phone.
49.
SYLVIA
The oven.
She rushes to the kitchen.
SAUL
Is it your turn or mine?
ANNA
My turn.
SAUL
Are you sure?
An alarm sounds on Saul's phone.
SAUL (cont'd)
Time for my pills.
Saul tries to stand up but Sylvia stops him.
SYLVIA
Oh, don't worry. I'll bring your
pills. You two keep playing.
Anna and Saul continues with the game.
64 EXT. SAUL'S HOUSE / OLIVIA'S CAR. DUSK. 64
Olivia pulls up in an Uber in front of Saul 's house. Anna
kisses Sylvia goodbye and walks out, greeting Olivia who has
stepped out for a moment.
SYLVIA
Thanks!
OLIVIA
Have you decided if you're quitting
yet?
SYLVIA
Yes. I told Karen.
Saul joins Sylvia on the doorstep.
OLIVIA
I never liked it there. Lots of
weird people, right? Hi! You must
be Saul. Olivia. Sylvia's sister.
Saul smiles.
50.
SYLVIA
Thanks again for taking Anna.
Sylvia waves goodbye. Olivia gets back in the Uber with Anna
and they drive away.
65 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE - STUDY. NIGHT 65
Saul and Sylvia are watching a film on TV. He's lying on the
bed, nodding off.
The sentimental film moves Sylvia - she tries not to cry.
Sylvia glances over at Saul. She sees him sleeping, turns
her attention back to the film.
A scene makes her cry. She tries to be quiet as she sobs.
Saul opens his eyes and watches her cry, then starts
sobbing. Worried, Sylvia mutes the volume. His weeping
starts to sound like a panic attack. She embraces him. He
gradually calms down, like a child in his mother's arms.
Sylvia hugs him, caressing the back of his head. She watches
the muted film and rocks Saul back to sleep.
She continues crying silently, without waking him. She
cradles him - her eyes glued to the television set.
66 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE - STUDY / STAIRS / HALLWAY. DAY 66
Sylvia and Saul have spent the night in each other's arms
and are in a deep, peaceful sleep. They don't hear the front
door open.
SARA (O.S.)
Hello!
Sylvia continues to sleep while Saul momentarily opens his
eyes, then shuts them again.
SARA (O.S.) (cont'd)
Saul?
The door inches open. S ara peeks inside, and smiles to see
them asleep together. She pulls her phone out and snaps a
photo.
Sylvia wakes up and sees Sara walking away from the room.
Sylvia sits up, dressed in her clothes from the day before.
Groggy, she off the couch.
51.
She walks out the room, embarrassed when she's confronted by
Sara.
SYLVIA
It's not what it looks like.
Sara remains quiet.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
He started crying last night while
we were watching a film. I wanted
to help.
Sylvia gets increasingly upset. She takes out the house keys
from her purse and leaves them on the table.
SARA
I see...
Sylvia heads for the front door and leaves the house. Saul
comes out of h is room.
SAUL
Where is she?
SARA
She left.
67 INT. SYLVIA'S HOUSE. BEDROOM. DAY. 67
Sylvia arrives to her house and hurries to the bed. She lies
there, crying.
68 EXT. SCHOOL / STREET. DAY 68
Sylvia waits outside school. Anna comes out.
ANNA
Wasn't Olivia supposed to come?
SYLVIA
She's not picking up her phone.
She's probably with Samantha.
ANNA
Why aren't you with Saul?
They start walking.
SYLVIA
Does Samantha visi t them often?
52.
ANNA
I don't know mom.
Sylvia knows she should stop probing, but can't help
herself.
SYLVIA
Do they mention her when you're
around?
ANNA
No, mom.
Anna feels bad lying.
68A EXT/INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT / MARK'S CAR. DAY 68A
Sylvia and Anna approach the house - surprised to find Saul
and Sara waiting outside with Isaac's car.
SAUL
Can we talk?
SYLVIA
Anna, go inside.
Anna complies. Sara realizes Sylvia is still u pset.
SARA
I'll leave you two.
Sara gets back into Isaac's car to give them some privacy.
SAUL
Why did you leave?
SYLVIA
I don't want things to get
complicated.
SAUL
What do you mean?
SYLVIA
I got my job back... it's better
for me to stick to a routine.
SAUL
Why do you want to stop working
with me?
Sylvia won't say what she's thinking.
53.
SAUL (cont'd)
Is it because Sara walked in on us?
SYLVIA
I'm glad we met, really.
Sylvia goes inside her house. Saul goes back to the car and
gets in. He takes out his notebook and scribbles something
down. Sara watches him in the rear-view mirror.
68B INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - SYLVIA'S BEDROOM / KITCHEN. DAY 68B
Sylvia enters the house.
Anna's been watching through Sylvia's bedroom window.
ANNA
They're not coming in?
SYLVIA
No.
ANNA
They didn't want to or you wouldn't
let them?
Anna walks over to the window and watches the car drive off.
ANNA
Are you mad at Saul?
SYLVIA
No.
ANNA
What did he do?
SYLVIA
Nothing.
Pensive, Sylvia walks into the kitchen and washes her hands.
ANNA
Why don't you ever tell me the
truth?
Sylvia ignores Anna.
69 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE - SAUL'S BEDROOM. CONTINUOUS 69
Isaac on the phone:
54.
ISAAC
Let me know so I know if I need to
cancel my afternoon appointments...
OK... thank you Sylvia.
Isaac hangs up. Saul is next to him.
SAUL
Why isn't she coming?
ISAAC
She said she couldn't. I didn't ask
why.
The news upset Saul.
ISAAC (cont'd)
I'm going to have to cancel my date
with Rachel.
Saul isn't really paying attention.
ISAAC (cont'd)
Would you come?
SAUL
I don't want to see Rachel, and you
don't have to c ancel your
appointments.
ISAAC
You're staying here, locked up all
day?
SAUL
I'd rather stay here than be taken
on your date like a pet.
Isaac doesn't want to argue - he lets his brother be.
SAUL (cont'd)
Could you lend me a notebook?
ISAAC
Yeah... sure.
Isaac dials a number on his phone and walks out of Saul's
room.
ISAAC (O.S.)
Hey, sorry I can't make it
tonight...
55.
70 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE. BEDROOM. NIGHT. 70
Saul is lying on the bed, he seems depressed. In his phone,
"A whiter shade of pale" is playing. Saul repeats the song
over and over.
71 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE. KITCHEN. DAY 71
Isaac is taking some coffee and getting ready to leave. Saul
is looking through the window.
ISAAC
I couldn't find anyone to help us
today so you'll have to stay here
alone.
SAUL
It's okay.
ISAA C
Unless you want to stay with the
neighbors.
SAUL
No.
ISAAC
Okay. Call me if you need anything.
72 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE. HALLWAY. DAY. 72
Saul is fixing his hair in front of the mirror. He picks up
a jacket and goes outside.
A note in the door says DO NOT WALK OUT!
Saul ignores it.
73 INT. UBER. DAY. 73
Saul is in the backseat of an uber, silent.
74 INT. ADULT RESIDENCE. DAY 74
Karen opens the door to let Sau l in, who is outside.
KAREN
Hello, may I help you?
56.
SAUL
I'm looking for Feinstein House.
KAREN
This is it.
SAUL
Is Sylvia here?
KAREN
Yes, she's here. What is your name?
SAUL
Saul.
KAREN
Okay. Wait here please.
He catches Sylvia's eye, and walks up to her.
SYLVIA
What are you doing here?
SAUL
I need to talk to you.
SYLVIA
What happened?
SAUL
Can we go somewhere private?
SYLVIA
Of course...
Sylvia calls out to Jessica, still drying dishes in the
small kitchen.
S YLVIA
I'll be back in a minute.
She gestures for Saul to follow her.
75 EXT. ADULT RESIDENCE. DAY 75
She leads Saul to a pantry full of dry foods and turns on
the light, closing the door.
She looks worried.
SYLVIA
What's going on?
57.
Saul doesn't say anything.
SYLVIA
I need to get back to work...
He closes the door behind them. He kisses her. She's a bit
surprised - unused to the romance, let alone in her work
setting.
He stops and looks at her - was it a bad idea? But she
smiles and pulls him back, kissing him.
A box of crackers falls on Saul's head - they burst out
laughing.
76 EXT. SCHOOL. DAY 76
Sylvia and Saul walk to school and wait for Anna. Teenagers
start walking out. Anna appears and notices them. She's
surprised to see Saul.
ANNA
Hey.
Saul waves hello.
SYLVIA
Saul came by. He's joining us for
dinner.
Anna smiles, trying to be polite.
ANNA
Can we get pizza?
SYLVIA
I was thinking of making something
with what we have at home.
Sylvia's response further sinks Anna's mood. The trio walk
home.
77 INT. SYLVIA'S HOUSE. DAY 77
Sylvia, Saul and Anna are taking lunch in the terrace.
ANNA
I told you I wanted pizza.
SAUL
I can go to get pizza. Or I can
call them.
58.
SYLVIA
No. We're not giving in to this
behavior.
ANNA
What behavior? I just wanted pizza.
SAUL
This is spicy.
ANNA
Exactly. You know I don't like
spicy...
SYLVIA
Both of you are belittling me as a
chef.
The three of them starts laughing.
78 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT. NIGHT 78
Saul is asleep in front of the TV. Sylvia puts a blanket
over him.
Anna and Sylvia are watching a show with the volume low.
ANNA
I thou ght you weren't working with
him anymore.
SYLVIA
I'm not. I'll be back with Karen
on Monday.
ANNA
I don't get it. Why's he here,
then?
SYLVIA
He's here as a friend.
They continue watching the TV. Anna is confused.
The door buzzer sounds.
Sylvia stands and checks who it is. Saul wakes.
ISAAC (O.S)
Hi Sylvia. Is Saul there?
SYLVIA
He is. I'll buzz you.
59.
Isaac climbs the stairs and enters Sylvia's.
ISAAC
I've been looking all over for you.
Saul sits up.
SAUL
Don't start.
ISAAC
What are you doing here?
SAUL
I came to visit.
ISAAC
You specifically do what I ask you
not to do.
SAUL
I forgot what you told me not to
do.
ISAAC
Fuck off.
SYLVIA
Hey!
Sylvia tries to get Isaac to stop shouting, which pisses him
off even more.
ISAAC
(to Sylvia)
I've been calling you. Why hav en't
you picked up?
SYLVIA
I haven't looked at my phone.
ISAAC
What is wrong with you??
SYLVIA
Excuse me?
Isaac raises his voice. Anna is scared.
ISAAC
Sara showed me the picture of you
two.
60.
SYLVIA
Lower your voice.
Isaac grabs Saul by the arm.
ISAAC
Let's go. We'll talk on the way
home.
Saul shakes himself free and walks up to Sylvia.
SAUL
Would you mind if I stay longer?
SYLVIA
Of course not.
SAUL
(to Isaac)
Get out.
Isaac leaves, slamming the door behind him.
79 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - ANNA'S BEDROOM / SYLVIA'S BEDROOM. 79
NIGHT
Anna and Sylvia finish putting fresh sheets on Anna's bed.
ANNA
Goo d night.
SAUL
Thanks for lending me your room.
Anna smiles and leaves.
SYLVIA
Got all you need?
SAUL
Thanks.
He smiles.
SYLVIA
Night.
Sylvia smiles back, closes the door and heads back to her
room.
Anna is already in bed. Sylvia lies down next to her. They
hug.
61.
Sylvia turns off the light.
80 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - SYLVIA'S BEDROOM / ANNA'S BEDROOM. 80
DAY
It's early in the morning. Sylvia is up. She wakes Anna.
SYLVIA
Wake up. It's late.
ANNA
Okay...
Anna gets out of bed and goes to her room. She knocks on the
door.
ANNA
It's me!
SAUL (O.S.)
Come in.
Anna opens the door to find Saul stark naked - just out of
the shower.
SAUL
Good morning.
Anna is stunned, she turn s around and hurries off. Saul
doesn't understand what just happened - he continues drying
himself with his towel.
Sylvia checks in a moment later. She tries to draw Saul's
attention to the fact that he is naked. He's suddenly
embarrassed and covers himself with the towel. Sylvia knows
he didn't mean anything bad by it.
Sylvia collects Anna's clothes, closes the door and goes to
her room.
ANNA
Would it be ok if I stay with
Ashley if Saul's staying tonight?
SYLVIA
He doesn't have to stay...
ANNA
You like him, he should stay.
SYLVIA
Okay... you know he doesn't realize
the things he does sometimes.
62.
ANNA
I know.
SYLVIA
Go take a shower.
Sylvia walks out.
81 INT. LUCIEN. DAY 81
Sylvia and Saul are looking at the menu in a fancy
restaurant. The waiter approaches.
WAITRESS
Welcome, it's been a while.
Saul nods, and smiles at Sylvia.
WAITRESS (cont'd)
The usual appetizers?
SAUL
We'll take a look at the menu,
thanks.
The waiter leaves.
SYLVIA
What are the usual appetizers?
SAUL
I have no idea.
Sylvia can't help but laugh.
SYLVIA
You do remember the waiter?
Saul shake his head. They both laugh out loud.
82 INT. LUCIEN. DAY 82
Sylvia comes out of the bathroom and joins Saul at their
table. They're done eating. The waitress brings the bill.
Saul gestures that he wants to pay with his smartphone.
WAITRESS
I'll get the terminal.
SYLVIA
Thanks.
63.
SAUL
My pleasure.
The waitress comes back with the card machine. Sylvia gives
Saul his card, but the payment is declined.
They try again: declined.
Sylvia takes out her card, but Saul won't allow it.
WAITRESS
Would you like us to check with
your bank and see if we can
validate the payment?
SAUL
Yes, please.
The waitress leaves. Sylvia calls a different WAITER over.
SYLVIA
Can we have the check, please?
The waiter takes a moment to come back with the card
machine. Sylvia's card passes instantly.
SAUL
Hold onto the receipt. I'm paying
you back.
SYLVIA
Are you crazy?
They get up and put on their coats. The waiter comes back.
WAITRESS
I've been told the account is
blocked.
SAUL
He's an asshole.
They thank the waiter and leave. Sylvia looks worried.
83 EXT. OLIVIA'S HOUSE - GARDEN. DAY 83
The family is having a picni c. Robert and Mark are passing a
baseball around. Olivia is grilling. Lucy, Ashley and Anna
play with the dog, pretending to throw a ball, the dog is
confused.
Samantha sits down on the grass. The dog jumps on her. Lucy
goes to Samantha's rescue.
64.
SAMANTHA
Anna!
Anna has taken a liking to Samantha - she enjoys spending
time with her. They sit next to each other while Lucy and
Ashley continue playing with the dog.
SAMANTHA (cont'd)
You don't drink with friends, do
you?
ANNA
No. My mom hardly ever lets me go
out. But I don't like drinking.
SAMANTHA
Does Ashley smoke or just drink
alcohol?
ANNA
I think she stopped smoking.
SAMANTHA
You're a good girl.
ANNA
Wh y did you let mom drink?
SAMANTHA
You think she asked for permission?
Anna remains quiet, Samantha strokes her hair.
SAMANTHA (cont'd)
Sylvia was a sweet child... Olivia
was always jealous of her. Your mom
was my favorite. But when she hit
her teens she started looking for
trouble...
ANNA
Did she get along with Grandpa
better?
SAMANTHA
She didn't.
ANNA
Too bad we never met.
Mark interrupts, handing Anna a hotd og.
65.
84 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - SYLVIA'S BEDROOM. NIGHT 84
Sylvia and Saul enter the house. She drops her purse on the
couch. There's tension in the air.
They enter her bedroom and they start kissing and undressing
each other and make love in an awkward way.
85 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE - FRONT DOOR TO BEDROOM. DAY 85
Saul unlocks the front door and enters. Sylvia follows him
to his bedroom. He takes a suitcase ou t of the closet.
Sylvia helps him pack.
Isaac walks in.
ISAAC
Why are you packing?
They ignore Isaac and continue packing.
ISAAC (cont'd)
You are not sufficiently aware of
what you're doing to make rational
decisions...
SAUL
Unblock my account! Or I swear I'll
kick you out of my house!
Isaac walks out. Saul and Sylvia continue packing in
silence. Saul sees the A Whiter Shade of Pale vinyl on his
chest of draw ers, but decides to leave it there.
86 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - SYLVIA'S BEDROOM. NIGHT 86
Saul and Sylvia have eaten dinner naked in bed. We see the
remaining crackers, salmon and cream cheese on a tray.
Sylvia's phone - it's Anna. She answers, putting Anna on
loudspeaker.
SYLVIA
Hi sweetie, how are you?
ANNA (V.O.)
Hi mom... can I stay over at
Ashley's again tonight?
SYLVIA
I thought we were going to ha ve
dinner the three of us...
66.
ANNA (V.O.)
C'mon mom. Olivia will drive me
over tomorrow after lunch.
Saul looks at Sylvia, convincing her to let Anna stay at her
cousin's.
SYLVIA
OK. See you tomorrow then.
She hangs up.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
She is gonna stay at Olivia's
again.
Saul opts to cheer her up.
Sylvia smiles.
INSERT: SYLVIA WRITES HER NAME AND INFORMATION DOWN ON A
CARD.
Sylvia takes off the old card from Sara's handmade necklace
and attaches the new one with her address. She hangs it
round his neck.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
I have made myself your new
emergency contact.
SAUL
Nice.
He models his look. They laugh.
87 INT. OLIVIA'S HOUSE. DAY 87
Robert and Olivia watch TV while Mark and Lucy play Twister
with Samantha.
We hear Anna and Ashley play with the dog in one of the
rooms.
The doorbell rings. Olivia gets up from the couch and opens.
S he's surprised to see Sylvia and Saul. They walk in - Saul
carries an ice cream tub.
Sylvia notices Samantha.
SYLVIA
Where's Anna?
67.
Olivia feels caught out. She doesn't know what to say in
order to avoid a fight.
Sylvia's nerves threaten to break under her mother's gaze.
SAMANTHA
Why don't you sit down?
SYLVIA
Anna!
Samantha remains calm.
SAMANTHA
Hello. You must be Saul.
Saul looks but doesn't answer.
Anna comes out of Ashley's room - with Ashley beside her.
SYLVIA
Where did you get that dress?
ASHLEY
Grandma gave it to her.
SYLVIA
You'l l take it off at home. Let's
go.
Sylvia grabs Anna by the arm and pulls her away. The dog
barks, Lucy calms him down.
SAMANTHA
Anna, tell your mom you want to
spend time with me.
Sylvia shouts back.
SYLVIA
Don't you go near her!
Samantha stays calm.
SAMANTHA
You'll make her live with a man
who's mentally ill?
Saul grins, bitterly.
SYLVIA
You protected a pedophile for
years.
68.
ROBERT
I will not accept that kind of talk
in my house.
Sylvia ignores Robert's remark, and continues staring at
Samantha.
SAMANTHA
I hoped you'd finally stop making
things up after so many years...
Sylvia shuts her eyes - she feels dizzy. She sits down. Anna
looks concerned.
SAMANTHA (cont'd)
Stop lying.
Sylvia looks at Olivia. The sisters stare at each other.
SYLVIA
Are you finally going to remember
or are you going to keep saying
nothing happened?
Olivia stays quiet.
SYLVIA (cont'd)
You saw us inside his room more
than once.
OLIVIA
I was eight years old.
ANNA
What happened?
Anna's question goes unanswered.
ANNA (cont'd)
Mom?
SYLVIA
Tell her.
Olivia doesn't say a word.
SAMANTHA
Anna, would you rather live here
with Olivia?
SYLVIA
I hate you.
69.
SAMANTHA
(calmly)
I always loved and took care of
you, and what do I get in return?
SYLVIA
Tell them how dad used to abuse me
when I was a little girl.
ROBERT
That's enough.
SAMANTHA
You've been lying since you learned
to talk. Your sister never gave us
any problems. You gave us nothing
but grief - at school, at home.
Drinking since you were twelve...
You're the only alcoholic in this
family.
SYLVIA
Olivia wasn't raped since she was a
kid.
ROBERT
That's enough. Get out.
SAMANTHA
Is it my fault you're a failure?
Sylvia looks broken - Anna is upset.
SAMANTHA (cont'd)
(to Saul)
Do you want to be with a sick
woman?
Saul doesn't respond. He tries to comfort Sylvia.
OLIVIA
Dad used to take her to his room
and shut the door. He'd say they
were going to watch a film
together. But he never let me in.
They all stare back at Olivia, then Samantha.
SAMANTHA
So you remember how they used to
watch films together?
70.
OLIVIA
You knew what was going on in that
room.
SAMANTHA
Then why didn't you say anything?
OLIVIA
I was confused... I always thought
he loved Sylvia more than he loved
me. I told you once what I saw and
you slapped me.
SYLVIA
You slapped me every single time I
told you I didn't like being with
dad.
SAMANTHA
He never touched you.
Robert stares at Olivia - she stares back. She looks
ashamed. A silence settle s in the room.
SAUL
Let's go home.
Saul helps Sylvia up.
SYLVIA
Anna, let's go.
Anna hurries to grab her stuff. The trio walk out.
88 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - SYLVIA'S BEDROOM. DAY 88
Sylvia is lying down - she looks exhausted. Anna is lying
next to her, comforting her.
Saul brings some cookies to Sylvia. The doorbell rings. Saul
answers.
SAUL (O.S.)
Yes?
OLIVIA
It's Olivia.
ROBERT
We were just hoping to talk to
Sylvia.
71.
SAUL
She is not available right now.
ROBERT
Oh okay. Please tell her that we're
thinking about her and that we'll
come back.
Anna hugs her mother in the bed.
89 INT. SYLVIA'S HOUSE. KITCHEN. DAY. 89
Saul and Anna are washing dishes together. They hear Sylvia
crying from the bathroom. Saul goes to check on her.
90 INT. SYLVIA'S HOUSE. BATHROOM. DAY 90
Saul sits next to Sylvia in the bathtub. She is cryin g and
hurries to hug Saul. Accidentally she pulls him over and he
fells into the bathtub.
They start laughing and kissing.
91 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT. DAY 91
The door bell rings. Anna opens the door and finds Olivia.
ANNA
She is sleeping.
OLIVIA
That's why I knocked.
ANNA
Why did you keep talking to
Grandma?
OLIVIA
It's not that simple.
ANNA
You knew all along and never said
anything.
OLIVIA
I was a child Anna .
ANNA
That's not an excuse. If I had a
sister I would never do that to
her.
72.
Olivia remains quiet.
ANNA (cont'd)
I don't want to see Samantha ever
again. I don't even think I want to
talk to you, either.
Olivia leaves and Anna closes the door behind her.
92 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT. BEDROOM. NIGHT. 92
Sylvia is sleeping in the middle of the night.
93 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT. NIGHT. 93
Saul wakes up in the middle of the night and tries to go to
Sylvia's bedroom. He sees the rooms of Sylvia and Anna
closed and he can't remember which door is the one he is
looking for.
Saul sits on a chair, frustrated.
94 INT. ADULT RESIDENCE - MAIN ROOM. DAY 94
Sylvia is helping a resident to pick her clothes for the
day. From the reception, Sylvia is called.
SYLVIA
I'll be right back, okay?
Sylvia goes to the reception and finds Karen.
KAREN
Woodhull hospital called. Saul is
there. You need to go.
SYLVIA
Saul? Is he okay?
KAREN
I don't know. You will have to go
there. Keep me posted.
Sylvia rushes to the hospital.
95 INT. HOSPITAL - RECEPTION. DAY 95
Sylvia waits for a receptionist to finish her conversation
on the phone - and approaches her after she hangs up.
73.
SYLVIA
Excuse me, I'm looking for Saul
Shapiro.
HOSPITAL RECEPTIONIST
Just a second.
The receptionist checks her computer.
SYLVIA
They took him in a few hours ago.
HOSPITAL RECEPTIONIST
What's your name?
SYLVIA
Sylvia Sanders.
The receptionist makes a phone call.
HOSPITAL RECEPTIONIST
Sylvia Sanders is here... Yes...
OK. You can wait over there.
She points to a bench.
Sylvia sits. She waits a few moments. Sh e looks up and sees
Isaac walking towards her - livid. She stands.
SYLVIA
How is he?
ISAAC
Go away.
SYLVIA
Can you at least tell me if he's
OK?
ISAAC
They found him lying unconscious in
the street outside you're house.
Sylvia looks shocked. Isaac stares at her.
Sylvia tries to think of something to say. She realizes it's
pointless, and leaves.
96 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT. NIGHT 96
Sylvia can't sleep. She take s her phone from under her
pillow and dials Saul. He doesn't answer. She tries again
but it goes straight to voicemail.
74.
SYLVIA
Hi. I just want to know if you're
OK. Then I'll leave you alone. Are
you OK?
She hangs up, and puts her phone under the pillow. She turns
over.
97 INT. CHURCH HALL (SUNSET PARK) NIGHT 97
Karen is setting up the room for the weekly meeting. She
notes that Sylvia is not well.
KAREN
Hey, any news about Saul?
Sylvia says no. And without energy, she helps Karen.
INT. CHURCH HALL (SUNSET PARK) NIG HT
97A 97A
The group is praying.
AA MEMBERS
God, grant us the strength to
accept the things that we cannot
change; the courage to change the
things we can; and the wisdom to
know the difference.
AA MEMBERS (cont'd)
I have asked a friend to read "What
is the AA Program?"
LORRAINE
AA is a fellowship of people who
share their experience...
Sylvia is absent-minded while Lorraine speaks. She is not
paying attention a t all.
98 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT - KITCHEN TO SYLVIA'S BEDROOM. NIGHT 98
Anna finishes preparing a dish and takes it upstairs.
Sylvia is sleeping while "A Whiter Shade of Pale" plays from
a speaker. Anna puts the food on the table besides the bed,
ANNA
You should eat.
Sylvia doesn't feel like standing up.
75.
SYLVIA
No, thank you.
99 INT. SUBWAY TRAIN. DAY 99
Anna travels by subway at rush hour. She looks at her
reflection in the blackened window and fixes her hair.
100 EXT. SAUL'S HOUSE. DAY 100
Anna arrives at Saul's house.
She peers through the window, looking in for a while.
She crosses the street and rings the bell.
101 EXT. SAUL'S HOUSE. DAY 101
Anna waits on the front porch. A male nurse opens the door.
ANN A
Hi. Is Saul home?
MALE NURSE
Who is asking?
ANNA
Anna.
MALE NURSE
Saul! Someone is here looking for
you.
The male nurse lets Anna in. She walks into the house.
102 INT. SAUL'S HOUSE. HALLWAY. DAY. 102
Anna is waiting in the living room when Saul comes
downstairs.
Saul and Anna hug each other, affectively. They sit in the
couch.
SAUL
How are you?
ANNA
Fine.
Saul asks the nurse to leave the room.
76.
SAUL
This is my friend. Give us some
privacy, please.
MALE NURSE
Sure.
The male nurse walks away but stays close. Saul starts to
get mad.
SAUL
Can you go upstairs or are you just
going to stand right there?
The nurse finally leaves.
Saul and Anna stay in silence for a while and smile each
other. Anna breaks the silence.
ANNA
Why haven't you answered my mom's
calls?
SAUL
They took my phone. And my
note book.
Saul breaks down in tears.
SAUL (cont'd)
I'm having a really hard time. They
don't let me go outside. The won't
even let me go in the kitchen. They
don't... Are you sure you don't
want something to drink?
ANNA
No, I'm okay. Thank you.
Anna tries to convince Saul to runaway from his house.
ANNA (cont'd)
Let's go.
SAUL
Where do you want to go?
ANNA
Just trust me.
SAUL
Okay. Alright. Let's go.
Saul follows Anna outside the house. He is in pajamas.
77.
103 INT / EXT. SUBWAY STATION. DAY. 103
Saul and Anna gets into the subway. They share a complicity
stare. They look happy and comfortable.
104 INT. SYLVIA'S APARTMENT. DAY 104
Sylvia is vacuuming the floor. The sound of the vacuum
cleaner doesn't let her hear when Anna arrives to the house.
ANNA
Mom.
Sylvia keeps vacuuming.
ANNA (cont'd)
Mom!
Sylvia listens Anna and turns of the vacuum cleaner. She
realiz es Saul is there too. His presence surprises her.
SYLVIA
Oh, hey. How did you get here?
SAUL
I don't know. I guess she helped
me.
Anna sits in the couch, with a smile on her face, proud of
what she has done for her mother.
Saul walks towards Sylvia. They stare each other for a
while. Then they starts kissing passionately. They have
found each other again.
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