Rush Hour 2
RUSH HOUR 2
BY
Jeff Nathanson
EXT. HONG KONG SKYLINE - ESTABLISHING
A smoky haze dims the blazing sun. Skyscrapers sit like
watchtowers over the city, where East meets West for five and
a half million people a day.
EXT. AMERICAN CONSULATE - HONG KONG - DAY
THE AMERICAN EMBASSY - U.S. and Chinese flags side by side.
HU LI, dark glasses, EXITS and slowly moves toward a STREET
VENDOR across the street.
She pays for an order of pork bao; as she takes her first
bite we see:
THE EXPLOSION BEHIND HER
TWO OFFICES ON THE SIXTH FLOOR BLOWN OUT - a huge fireball
erupting over one side of the embassy.
People panic and run. Hu Li doesn't even flinch. She takes
a bite of her pork bao as she casually turns to the stunned
street vendor.
HU LI
(Chinese, subtitled)
Someone better call the police.
EXT./INT. LEE'S CAR - CONTINUOUS
The passenger window rolls down and we see Carter, styling in
a Chinese-cut suit. He's holding a Chinese-English
dictionary, leaning out the window - giving his best "do me"
look to two girls in a convertible.
CARTER
(int Chinese)
Deng wa lu yun cai-shen wu.
The HORRIFIED GIRLS speed off, and Carter turns to Lee, who
is driving and singing to his radio.
LEE
(singing)
...wish they all could be California...
wish they all could be California
girls...
Carter ejects the BEACH BOYS CD from the stereo and TOSSES it
out of the SUNROOF.
CARTER
I warned you about playing that shit
when I'm in the car.
LEE
That was my CD. Don't you ever touch a
Chinese man's CD.
CARTER
Did you see the way those girls drove
off? I did you a favor.
LEE
Those girls drove off because of you.
CARTER
All I did was invite them for a drink.
LEE
You invited them to get naked and
sacrifice a small goat.
CARTER
(checking Chinese-English
dictionary)
I said that? Which word was "goat?"
Lee picks up his CD case.
LEE
You owe me a copy of the Beach Boys
Greatest Hits, Volume Two.
CARTER
Don't be giving me attitude, Lee. I've
been here three days and we haven't done
shit. We haven't been to a club,
haven't even talked to a girl. I'm on
vacation, and I want some mu-shu.
LEE
Mu-shu? You're hungry?
CARTER
Not Mu-shu. Mu-shu. I want to see some
women. Now stop playing dumb and show
me the shu!
Carter flips through the dictionary. A CALL COMES in over
LEE'S CELL PHONE.
INTERCUT
INT. SUPERINDENDENT CHIN'S OFFICE - NIGHT
The following conversation is in Chinese, English subtitles.
SUPERINDENDENT CHIN
Lee, there was a bombing at the American
Embassy. Two American translators were
killed.
LEE
Any leads?
SUPERINDENDENT CHIN
(beat)
We think it's Ricky Tan. If you don't
want to take the case, I'll understand.
LEE
It's my responsibility.
Lee hangs up the cell phone.
CARTER
What was that? Did you just pick up a
case? Did we just take another damn
case on my vacation?
Lee smiles at Carter.
LEE
Of course not. My Superindendent
invited us to a club tonight. Big
party.
CARTER
Don't be messing with me, Lee. I will
kick your ass. I'll hit you so hard
you'll end up in the Ming Dynasty.
LEE
Carter, would I lie to you?
EXT. RAVEN CLUB - NIGHT
Carter follows Lee out of the car, the two men making their
way to the door of the Raven Club. Carter is combing his
hair, getting himself ready for a night on the town, stopping
when he spots two hot WOMEN walking into the club.
CARTER
That's what I'm talking about. A real
Hong Kong night club. You want an
Altoid?
LEE
No.
CARTER
You better take one. Your breath has
been a little funky all day. Let me
look at you.
Carter looks at Lee. Fixes his collar.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Just relax and don't worry about a
thing. I'll hook you up in there. You
got condoms?
LEE
No.
CARTER
Take this. It's a Magnum. You can fold
it in half.
Carter dances through the door, Lee follows.
INT. RAVEN CLUB - NIGHT
A dark, upscale club that is packed with GANGSTERS, BEAUTIFUL
GIRLS and CIVILIANS. Lee and Carter walk in. Lee is trying
to keep a low profile as Carter stares up at the stage, where
a man sings Karaoke -- the most painful rendition of Michael
Jackson's "DON'T STOP 'TILL YOU GET ENOUGH."
LEE
I'll meet you at the bar in ten minutes.
They don't like tourists in here, so try
to blend in.
CARTER
Blend in? I'm two feet taller than
everyone here. Where you going?
LEE
Bathroom.
Lee walks off, trying not to be seen as Carter steps up to
the bar, takes a seat next to TWO CHINESE THUGS.
CARTER
How you boys doing tonight?
The thugs ignore Carter as he motions to the stage, where the
OLD MAN continues to sing.
CARTER (CONT'D)
That is the worst singing I've ever
heard. That sounds like something you'd
hear in prison after lights out.
The thugs continue to ignore Carter.
INT. RAVEN CLUB - BACK HALL - NIGHT
Lee makes his way down a hallway -- looks through an open
door - sees a private room. Several TRIADS are using hi-tech
MACHINES to count stacks of AMERICAN HUNDRED DOLLAR BILLS.
CARTER (V.O.)
Get closer to my body now. And just
love me, till you don't know how...
Lee steps back into shadow -- does a double take as he
realizes he's hearing Carter belting out "DON'T STOP 'TILL
YOU GET ENOUGH."
INT. RAVEN CLUB - CONTINUOUS
A room full of Chinese sitting with their mouths open,
watching Carter on the Karaoke stage doing a dead-on Michael
Jackson, singing his heart out. Dancing and making eyes at a
few of the smitten women who are watching him.
LEE
(whispering from side of stage)
Carter, get off that stage!
CARTER
Are you kidding, they love me. I'm a
star, Lee. A god to these people!
Carter resumes singing, really getting down. Moonwalking to
the EDGE of the STATE where Lee PULLS HIM OFF.
LEE
This is a gangster bar, we're here
undercover.
CARTER
I knew you were lying.
LEE
I'm sorry.
CARTER
Damn it, why are you ruining my night?
I'm just starting to have fun.
(beat)
Well fine then, go ahead, pull your
badge and do your thing.
LEE
No, we're here for information, to find
out where a man named Ricky Tan is. We
must tread softly and keep our ears
open.
CARTER
Tread softly? Who taught you how to
roost a bar?
LEE
Carter, you don't understand. These men
are Fu-Cang-Long Triads. Part of the
most deadly gang in China.
CARTER
Man, are you crazy? You think that
scares me? I'm from L.A. We invented
gangs. We were having gang wars before
anybody even thought about it. We get
royalties from other gangs. Now gimme
your badge and gun and I'll show you how
it's done.
LEE
No. You are a civilian. In China, I am
Michael Jackson, and you are Toto.
CARTER
You mean Tito. We had Toto for dinner
last night.
Before Lee can react, Carter has lifted Lee's badge and gun.
Carter bounds back on stage, pulls the plug on the music and
fires three SHOTS into the ceiling, silencing the bar.
CARTER (CONT'D)
(Chinese)
Deng wa lu yun, shen wu wattu masu wang
lui.
Nobody moves. Strange looks from the crowd. Carter turns to
Lee.
CARTER (CONT'D)
(whispering)
What'd I say?
LEE
You just said you're their worst
nightmare - and to line their mothers up
for a milking.
CARTER
Shit. C'mon, get up here and help me
out.
Reluctantly, Lee gets on stage. More looks from the Chinese
as Carter speaks, Lee translating.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Okay, all the Triads and ugly women go
to that side, all fine ass women on this
side.
Nobody moves. Carter fires two more shots in the ceiling.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Let's try this again. Who here knows
Ricky Tan, raise your hand.
Nobody moves.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Who here is named Lee? Raise your hand.
Nobody moves.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Now I know you're lying.
The crowd still hasn't moved. Except in the back, where Lee
spots several GANGSTERS leaving. As Lee runs off stage --
CARTER (CONT'D)
(as they run out)
I come back and catch y'all singing
Michael Jackson and you're all going to
jail.
EXT. RAVEN CLUB - NIGHT
Lee and Carter run into the street, just in time to see HU LI
and several gangsters round a corner.
CARTER
Stop! LAPD!
Lee takes off and chases them on foot.
EXT. HONG KONG STREET - NIGHT
EXT. HONG KONG STREET - NIGHT
The far end of the street is BLOCKED BY MARKET STALLS. The
GANGSTERS look around frantically. An apartment building is
under CONSTRUCTION, massive BAMBOO SCAFFOLDING top to bottom.
Their only way out is UP.
Lee and Carter dash around the corner to see the gangsters
SWARMING UP THE SCAFFOLDING. Lee wastes no time going after
them. With a running start, he JAMS A FOOT on the wall and
VAULTS to the BOTTOM RUNG, GRABS HOLD AND SWINGS UP.
CARTER
Hang on, Lee. I'm coming.
Carter jumps to grab hold of the scaffolding. NOT EVEN
CLOSE. He backs up -- he's gonna take a running start!
ABOVE - LEE REACHES 4 GANGSTERS. They all tear off the
LENGTHS OF BAMBOO and square off. The clatter of wood
against wood as they beat at each other. Wrestling over his
pole, Lee FLINGS TWO of the GANGSTERS over the edge.
BELOW, Carter has hold of the bottom rung, STRAINING MIGHTILY
to pull himself up. Just as he gets his chin above the
bar... snap! It BREAKS and he drops. Then...
WHAM! WHAM! The two gangsters CRASH LAND ON EITHER side of
CARTER. HE takes one look at their pain.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Forget this...
He dashes into the stairwell. ABOVE, the last two GANGSTERS
come at Lee. He stomps down, levering up floor boards, which
SEE-SAWS them off-balance. With the advantage, he BATTERS
them with his bamboo pole and knocks them off. He climbs
after the GANGSTER LEADER.
ON HU LI and the GANGSTERS
Coming over the crest of the hill, seeing Carter climbing up
the hill.
EXT. ROOF - CONTINUOUS
Lee pulls himself up onto the roof, takes a few steps when
WHAM! He is clocked by a 16-foot BAMBOO POLE. Lee TOPPLES
OVER THE EDGE! We see his adversary for the first time.
HU LI - AGILE, GORGEOUS...DANGEROUS
As she steps to the edge... BOOM! The STAIRWELL DOOR FLIES
OPEN and CARTER EMERGES. Gun low and ready. Hu Li is gone.
CARTER
(out of breath)
Freeze! Nobody move!
Carter goes to the edge and sees Lee hanging on a pole below.
Carter is blind-sided by Hu Li.
She takes one sultry step towards him, then twists her heel
and WINDMILLS a HARD KICK that sends Carter FLYING OFF THE
ROOF!
He falls along the side of the building. He manages to grab
the end of a BAMBOO POLE that juts out from the scaffolding.
LEE IS RIGHT THERE NEXT TO HIM!
They're hanging side-by-side, holding on for their lives. Hu
Li looks down at them. She has no weapon to finish them off.
She turns and runs, disappearing in the night.
CARTER AND LEE
holding on with all their strength. The bamboo is starting
to bend.
CARTER (CONT'D)
All I wanted was a little mu-shu.
LEE
Try to land on your feet.
Carter looks down at a rancid dumpster below them.
CARTER
I can't believe I flew ten-thousand
miles for this shit.
The POLE BREAKS
SUPER THE TITLE:
RUSH HOUR 2: REMEMBER THE DRAGON
INT. LEE'S UNMARKED POLICE CAR - LATER THAT NIGHT
Carter and Lee drive through Hong Kong, the two men riding in
silence, bruised and covered in garbage.
CARTER
You lied to me.
LEE
I'm sorry.
CARTER
You're sorry. I got somebody's old
chopsticks stuck in my ass, so don't
tell me you're sorry. Just take me
home.
LEE
No time. There was an explosion at the
American Embassy today -- two American
translators were killed.
Carter takes this in. Can't believe his own bad luck.
CARTER
So that Ricky Tan, he's the one who blew
up the Embassy?
EXT. MONASTERY SCHOOL - EARLY MORNING
Lee and Carter walk into a massive COURTYARD, where thirty 12
year olds are going through their warm up routines.
MASTER FU, 60's, wears a BLACK ROBE as he teaches his kids.
CARTER
I'm telling you right now, I'm tired of
this shit. There's two billion Chinese -
let one of them be your partner.
LEE
This won't take long.
Master Fu barks out a barrage of SHAOLIN FIGHTING STANCES.
MASTER FU
Dragon kick!
Like well-trained army, the students YELL AND KICK HARD.
MASTER FU (CONT'D)
Lotus block!
The students YELL and form an "X" with their arms. Master Fu
notices Carter and Lee watching from the back.
MASTER FU (CONT'D)
Twisting Tiger!
No response. The students exchange baffled looks.
MASTER FU (CONT'D (CONT'D)
(staring straight at Lee)
Twisting Tiger!
Lee may be a big rusty, but he puts on a shit-kicking move
that leaves the students blown away. Lee smiles, basking in
the glow...
...until he sees Master Fu's disappointment.
MASTER FU (CONT'D)
Didn't I teach you to always arch your
back?
LEE
(bowing, humbled)
Yes, Master.
While Lee follows Master Fu, Carter stands in front of the 12
YEAR OLDS, who sit motionless around a fighting circle.
Carter starts stretching his legs, warming up.
CARTER
I was watching you kids. My name is
Carter, LAPD, and I'm a third degree
black belt. At least that's what I tell
the girls at the Holiday Health Spa
where I work out.
Carter throws a series of QUICK PUNCHES, but the kids have no
reaction.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Let me give you kids some tips. The key
to Kung Fu is the follow through. Why
don't you stand up.
THE KIDS DON'T MOVE, no reaction. Carter continues to throw
punches.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Go ahead, kick me, hit me. I'll show
you how to block. Come on, stand up,
give me your best shot -- try to kick
right to my head.
The kids still don't move. Carter, working up a sweat from
shadow fighting, takes off his JACKET, DRAPING IT over the
HOLY BUDDHA behind him -- a mistake. He swings back around
to face the kids and NEVER SEES THE KICK that sends him
flying back onto the mat. He looks around and sees ALL of
the kids STANDING, in FIGHTING POSITION.
CARTER (CONT'D)
That's pretty good. Which one of you
kids did that?
INT. COURTYARD PATHWAY - CONTINUOUS
Lee and Master Fu walking.
LEE
I need your help, Master. I'm seeking a
man who used to train with you. He's
become a killer - the worst kind of
animal.
MASTER FU
Animals kill only from hunger or fear.
The man you seek is lower than a
serpent.
(faces Lee)
...he kills for money.
In the b.g., we see the kids leaping acrobatically over
Carter from all sides. Carter, frustrated, tries to grab the
kids out of the air as they fly by, but they elude him. They
disappear O.S.
Lee and Master Fu walk another moment, Master Fu lost in
thought.
MASTER FU (CONT'D)
He was the best I ever trained, you
know.
LEE
Ricky Tan?
MASTER FU
No. Your father.
(Lee reacts)
Your father and Ricky Tan were my
favorite students... and for such awful
things to happen as they did --
Lee cuts off Master Fu's reminisces -- he's obviously
uncomfortable.
LEE
How do I find Ricky Tan?
AGAIN IN THE B.G., Carter and the flying kids go zipping by
in the other direction, disappear O.S.
Master Fu pats the SOIL around a struggling plant.
MASTER FU
A seeding spends its entire life
reaching towards Heaven.
LEE
I know, Master, but...
MASTER FU
The answers you seek can be found in
Heaven on Earth.
LEE
Heaven on Earth? Master, I don't
understand.
(working it)
A temple, where Heaven is on Earth? A
mountain, where Earth reaches for the --
MASTER FU
It's a massage parlor downtown. "Heaven
on Earth." You will find your answers
there.
Lee bows to Master Fu, slowly turns to walk back down the
pathway.
MASTER FU (CONT'D)
Wait! Put a c-note in the jar.
Lee puts a few bills in the jar, heads down a pathway.
Master Fu walks over and takes the cash.
MASTER FU (CONT'D)
Cheap bastard...
EXT. MONASTERY SCHOOL - CONTINUOUS
Lee emerges from the path, stops when he sees Carter -- two
students headlocked under each arm, another two scissor
locked between his legs, holding another two down with his
hands, and sitting on the last one.
CARTER
And that's how you use the LAPD choke
hold. Now start practicing and don't
make me come back here!
LEE
Carter...you ready to have some fun!?
EXT. HEAVEN ON EARTH MASSAGE PARLOR - DAY
A neon light hangs above the upscale massage parlor.
LEE
Just follow my lead and act like a
tourist.
CARTER
I am a tourist.
INT. HEAVEN ON EARTH MASSAGE PARLOR - CONTINUOUS
Lee and Carter walk into an upscale MASSAGE PARLOR and stand
in a lobby. SOFT MUSIC is playing.
HOSTESS
Good afternoon, gentlemen.
Lee bows, followed by Carter.
LEE
(in Chinese)
Hello.
CARTER
How you doin'?
LEE
My friend is on vacation, from America.
I want to show him a good time.
HOSTESS
Oh, you American?
CARTER
That's right.
HOSTESS
You bring American money?
CARTER
(holding up a Platinum AmEx)
Never leave home without it.
(to Lee)
Lee, this one's on me. You save your
money.
The Hostess takes Carter by the arm, walks over to a HIDDEN
SLIDING DOOR - slides it open to reveal TWENTY BEAUTIFUL
WOMEN. Carter truly is in Heaven.
HOSTESS
You get massage from Chinese girl
before?
CARTER
No. It's my first time.
HOSTESS
You pick any girl for you and your
friend.
Carter looks like a kid in a candy store.
CARTER
Any girl? Okay. Let's start with that
one.
HOSTESS
Oh yes, she's very nice.
CARTER
She is nice. But I am very tense. I'm
gonna need a lot of massages. I'll take
that one, too. How you doin', baby?
And...that one in pink. She can do my
feet.
Lee elbows Carter.
LEE
What are you doing?
CARTER
She said I could pick any girl I want.
LEE
Well, hurry up.
CARTER
Hey! You don't break in front of a
black man in a buffet line.
HOSTESS
(to Lee)
Your friend have big appetite.
(handing ROBES to Lee and
Carter)
Please put these on and wait upstairs in
the quiet room.
INT. QUIET ROOM MASSAGE PARLOR - DAY
TWENTY MEN in SILK ROBES lie in reclining chairs, women
massaging their feet and hands. There are BIG SCREEN TV's
showing nature films, relaxation music playing in the
background.
Lee and Carter sit in the quiet room dressed in MATCHING
PURPLE ROBES. Lee wears SLIPPERS, Carter wears his HIGH
TOPS. Carter is enjoying a hand and neck massage at the same
time. A WOMAN walks over and hands them each a drink.
CARTER
Now I'm on vacation. I knew you'd come
through, Lee.
LEE doesn't respond. LEE IS STARING AT SOMEONE ON THE FAR
SIDE OF THE ROOM. A man who radiates a unique blend of
sophistication and brutality.
CARTER (CONT'D)
What's wrong?
LEE
Over there -- that's Ricky Tan.
CARTER
That's Ricky Tan? He's four feet tall.
I'll go over with you right now, shake
him down.
LEE
This is a very dangerous man.
CARTER
I'm a dangerous man. You're not gonna
ruin my massage because of some midget
in a house coat.
LEE
I'm calling for back up!
Lee gets up from a chair, hurriedly exits.
Carter looks at RICKY TAN -- sitting quietly in his chair
with his LAPTOP COMPUTER on his knees. Carter makes a
decision, gets up and walks towards him.
CARTER
Ricky Tan, I've been looking all over
for you. Get up.
Tan looks up for a moment, a smile.
RICKY TAN
I'm busy at the moment.
CARTER
I said get on your feet!
RICKY TAN
I know you, Detective Carter, right?
You're Lee's American friend. Enjoying
your visit?
CARTER
I'm Lee's new muscle, his right arm --
and don't let the robe fool you. This
is the only color they had left. Now
get up!
Tan laughs, goes back to his laptop. CARTER GRABS THE LAPTOP
from Ricky and throws it across the room - SHATTERING IT
against the wall. Ricky glances at his men who are seated
around the room waiting to move.
CARTER (CONT'D)
I told you to get on your feet!
Having heard the commotion, Lee arrives by Carter's side,
breathless, as Tan looks up, surprised.
RICKY TAN
Lee, I've missed you, brother.
(getting up, giving Lee a hug)
I heard about the two Americans, I'm so
sorry, you must be under great pressure.
LEE
You must come with me for questioning.
CARTER
Let's go. I've got girls and chicken
and hot oil waiting for me.
RICKY TAN
I don't think so...
A nod of Ricky Tan's head, and TEN LARGE MEN in robes and
towels spring out of reclining chairs -- menacingly facing
Lee and Carter. A beat...
CARTER
I'd like to pay you for that laptop.
RICKY TAN
It's no problem. But I must excuse
myself, inspector.
CARTER
That's Chief Inspector, he got promoted.
Tan bows to Lee and Carter.
RICKY TAN
Congratulations. And good day.
As Tan starts to exit, Lee and Carter move to intercept him.
But they are blocked by TAN'S MEN.
Lee grabs one of the men's towels and pulls it off. The man
covers his naked body. Lee is grabbed by one of the other
henchmen, but he escapes and begins kicking ass, using the
towel and his own robe to block and wrap another man's arms --
blocking, kicking, and punching everything in sight -- all
the while managing to keep his privates covered with a towel,
his robe, or some other found object.
Carter, meanwhile, uses his quick hands to send several men
flying back -- grabbing a towel of one of them.
CARTER
(ref: his privates)
Damn! No wonder you're pissed off.
Carter uses the towel like Lee did to block and trap one of
the men's punches.
In the middle of fighting, Lee is suddenly exposed -- he
flinches to cover himself and is punched from behind.
Momentarily stunned, he's lifted from behind -- two men
throwing him out the front door.
Carter is also overpowered by two men, who lift him over
their shoulders.
EXT. HONG KONG HIGHWAY - DAY
Ricky Tan's black limo SCREECHES to a stop. The door flies
open and Lee and Carter are TOSSED out onto the highway.
Both men are completely naked.
EXT. HONG KONG POLICE STATION - DAY
A packed street - Lee and Carter dodging in and out of
people. The CAMERA PANS and we see Lee and Carter from
behind.
CARTER
Goddamn you got a small ass.
LEE
Don't look at my ass!
INT. HONG KONG POLICE STATION - BULLPEN - DAY
PANDEMONIUM
The station is packed with Americans -- FBI AGENTS, SECRET
SERVICE... they've set up shop right in the middle of the
bullpen.
SUPERINDENDENT CHIN is arguing with SPECIAL AGENT STERLING, a
50-year old hard ass who is in charge of this circus.
SPECIAL AGENT STERLING
Chin, you have been ordered by the
Ministry of Public Security to assist
the FBI and Secret Service with our
investigation, to provide us with
whatever we need. If you have
information, it belongs to us.
SUPERINDENDENT CHIN
This is still Hong Kong.
SPECIAL AGENT STERLING
Two Americans have been killed on United
States Government property -- this is
our investigation.
SUPERINDENDENT CHIN
Chief Inspector Lee will brief your
people...
SPECIAL AGENT STERLING
No. He will report to me. Do we
understand each other?
SUDDENLY ALL EYES turn as Carter and Lee enter the bullpen.
Out of breath, still robed: Lee covering himself with a trash
can lid, Carter using a red construction cone.
SPECIAL AGENT STERLING (CONT'D)
Who the hell is that?
SUPERINDENDENT CHIN
(humiliated)
That is...Chief Inspector Lee. The
detective in charge of our
investigation.
SPECIAL AGENT STERLING
Put a diaper on him, Chin. I want to
talk to the great Inspector Lee.
INT. LEE'S OFFICE - DAY
The shades are down as Lee frantically gets dressed, putting
on a suit and fixing his tie.
Carter finishes putting on a BLACK CHINESE STYLE SUIT from
Lee's closet, then moves for the door.
LEE
Where are you going?
CARTER
Back to Heaven on Earth. I need my damn
passport back. I'm going home.
LEE
Fine. Go home. Who needs you.
CARTER
Why you mad at me? You needed back-up,
so I backed you up. I was about to take
out Ricky Tan and those bodyguards.
LEE
Stop! I'm sick of your bullshit!
CARTER
My bullshit? I'm not the one who goes
to a karaoke bar filled with gangsters!
I'm not the one who goes to massage
parlors to bust crime lords!
LEE
It's my job!
CARTER
You're pathetic, man. When's the last
time you had some fun? When's the last
time you took a night off, had a date?
LEE
I have plenty of dates.
CARTER
Really? When's the last time you had
some Mu-shu Let's hear it, Lee, when
was it? Year of the rat?
LEE
You would never understand my life.
You're not Chinese.
CARTER
And you ain't black!
The two men look at each other for a long BEAT. Lee quickly
walks out, slamming the door behind him, leaving Carter half
dressed.
INT. SUPERINDENDENT CHIN'S OFFICE - DAY
Lee walks in, sees Sterling sitting at Chin's desk. Chin
stands in the back.
SUPERINDENDENT CHIN
Lee, this is Special Agent Sterling from
the United States Secret Service.
LEE
The Secret Service? Why?
STERLING
What I'm about to tell you cannot leave
this room. The men who were killed
yesterday were not American translators.
They were undercover U.S. customs agents
trying to break a Triad smuggling ring.
We don't know what they're transporting
out of Hong Kong, but whatever it is, it
got the agents killed.
LEE
How can we help?
STERLING
Stay the hell out of our way.
LEE
I can get to Ricky Tan.
STERLING
We know all about Tan. That's why we're
leaving him out there as bait. We think
this is a lot bigger than just Ricky Tan
and his Fu-Cang-Long Triads.
INT. LEE'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Carter is on the phone, his feet on Lee's desk. As he talks
he opens a drawer, pulls out a wad of cash and pockets it.
CARTER
Captain, you're gonna have to speak up.
I'm on a car phone!
INT. CAPTAIN DIEL'S OFFICE - LAPD HEADQUARTERS - DAY
CAPTAIN DIEL sits behind his desk talking on the phone.
CAPTAIN DIEL
Is it true, Carter? Are you in Hong
Kong right now?
CARTER
Hong Kong? I'm not in Hong Kong. I'm
in Hollywood -- right at Sunset and
Vine, two minutes from the station. How
about I pick you up right now and take
you to dinner?
CAPTAIN DIEL
It's nine-thirty in the morning.
CARTER
Did I say dinner? I meant diner.
Biscuits and gravy, you love that shit.
CAPTAIN DIEL
Do you know what happened yesterday,
Carter? I was officially nominated for
the Commissioner's post for the LAPD.
There was a dinner last night, two
hundred LAPD officers were there.
CARTER
Two hundred cops? Was Mario Sanchez
there? He owes me money.
CAPTAIN DIEL
I've waited my whole life for this job,
but I don't have a shot in hell of
getting it. Do you know why?
CARTER
Is it because of the hookers, sir? You
tell them there's no crime in being
lonely.
CAPTAIN DIEL
No, Carter. The reason I'm screwed is
because the entire department is about
to find out the stolen credit cards we
impounded were used to buy two first
class upgrades to Hong Kong. And what
the hell is Heaven on Earth?
CARTER
Sir, I'm working on a big case over here
-- and by the time I get back they're
gonna make you Governor. Captain, you
there? Hello? Shit!
As Carter walks out the DOOR, he brushes past HU LI, who is
standing in the hallway disguised as a FED EX DELIVERY
PERSON. Carter checks her out as he exits.
EXT. STREET - DAY
CARTER starts walking down the street, making his way past an
outdoor BUTCHER MARKET, getting strange looks from locals and
tourists alike. He motions to an OLD WOMAN who is selling
LIVE DUCKS, PIGEONS AND CHICKENS
CARTER
How you doing? Can you direct me to the
Heaven on Earth massage parlor?
The OLD WOMAN stares at Carter, starts motioning to her CAGES
filled with birds.
CARTER (CONT'D)
No, I don't eat live birds. I like my
birds dead and deep fried. You ever
been to Popeyes?
The Woman takes out a bird, holds up a HATCHET.
CARTER (CONT'D)
No, don't do that, I had a big lunch.
I'm warning you, I'm a police officer --
just put the blade down and let the bird
go.
INT. HONG KONG POLICE STATION - BULLPEN/LEE'S OFFICE - DAY
Lee walks out of the Captain's office, heads for his own
office - but never gets there.
AN EXPLOSION rips through the second floor of the station.
Lee diving for safety as glass and debris shoot over his
head. Sheer pandemonium as Lee quickly looks up at his
destroyed office, tries to get to his feet.
STUNNED POLICE OFFICERS and DETECTIVES are crowded around
Lee's office, looking at the rubble. Lee pushes through the
crowd -- it's all smoke and fire. Now way anyone held back
by the heat.
LEE
Carter! CARTER!
EXT. HONG KONG STREET - DAY
Carter walks down the street holding a CAGE WITH A LIVE RED
BIRD inside. He stops a MAN who is sweeping in front of his
store.
CARTER
How you doing? I'm looking for Heaven
on Earth.
The man stares at Carter, watches as he pulls out his:
ENGLISH/CHINESE DICTIONARY
CARTER (CONT'D)
Shan-shui cao guo-jiu, pao gai niu tao
zi.
MAN
You wish to spank my sister with a ping
pong paddle?
CARTER
No man, I was just asking...
MAN
Wait here. I'll go see if she's awake.
As the man walks into his store, Carter runs off.
Pause.
Carter strolls back INTO FRAME, peering into the store to see
if it's worth staying...
INT. HONG KONG POLICE STATION - BULL PEN - DAY
Lee sits by himself in shock. Superindendent Chin
approaches.
LEE
All he wanted was some mu-shu.
SUPERINDENDENT CHIN
Are you okay, Lee?
Beat.
LEE
I'm sorry, I have to go.
EXT. HEAVEN ON EARTH MASSAGE PARLOR - AFTERNOON
Carter finally makes his way to the massage parlor, moving
for the FRONT DOOR when he sees RICKY TAN EXIT. Carter ducks
to the side and watches as Ricky climbs into the back of a
waiting Daimler.
The Daimler drives off. Carter rushes to the middle of the
street with a determined look on his face.
CARTER
I'm gonna solve this case myself. Taxi!
Carter flags down a CAB, jumps in the back seat.
INT. TAXI - EVENING
The CAB DRIVER turns to Carter, who motions to the limo.
CARTER
(loud)
Follow that limo.
The Cab Driver continues to stare at Carter.
CARTER (CONT'D)
You understand what I'm saying? Follow
that car! Where it goes, you go! This
is a chase -- we are chasing that limo!
(beat)
We are still parked -- we're not moving!
This is the opposite of chasing -- drive
the car or I will kill you!
The driver slowly turns, holding out his hand. Carter fishes
in his pocket hands the cab driver a wad of cash.
CAB DRIVER
Now you speak my language.
INT. LEE'S CAR - DAY
Lee drives, misty-eyed. RAP MUSIC playing over the stereo.
Lee turns it up, slowly moving his head to the music, in
tribute to Carter.
His CELL PHONE rings, he turns down the music.
INTERCUT --
INT. CHIN'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
SUPERINDENDENT CHIN
Lee, we just got a call from the harbor
patrol. Ricky Tan is throwing a little
party on his boat tonight. Victoria
harbor. If you don't want to...
LEE
Did you tell Sterling?
SUPERINDENDENT CHIN
Let him find out on his own. I want the
Hong Kong police handling this.
LEE
Thank you.
Lee hangs up. A look of intensity. He CRANKS the RAP MUSIC
up, a man on a mission.
EXT. YACHT - HARBOR - NIGHT
A 190-FOOT YACHT is anchored in Victoria Harbor. Ricky Tan
walks along the top deck with HU LI, disappearing into a
crowd of people who are partying on the ship.
Carter steps out of the cab.
CARTER
Stay here. I'll be right back. You
understand?
CAB DRIVER
Yes. I understand.
Carter steps out of the cab, which immediately drives off,
leaving him alone on the docks.
Carter looks around the dock -- a pull up valet station
parking fancy cars, RICH PEOPLE getting on the boat as their
names are checked off a list by two DOORMEN.
INT. YACHT - NIGHT
A huge PARTY, a live band plays for a crowd of business men,
politicians and beautiful women - a who's who of Hong Kong.
CARTER walks up to the front of the boat -- TWO DOORMEN
HOLDING clipboards immediately stop him.
DOORMAN #1
Invitation, please.
CARTER
I'm with the band. I'm the lead singer.
DOORMAN #1
The band has been playing over an hour.
CARTER
I got held up at a wedding in Tai Koo.
Ricky here yet, I need to get his
requests.
As Carter walks past the doorman --
DOORMAN #1
Wait.
CARTER
Last party all he wanted was Sting --
not one person danced. Tonight I'm
doing Superfreak, I don't care what he
says. Where is he?
DOORMAN #1
Mr. Tan is not to be disturbed by the
help.
Carter turns back to the doorman, grabs him by the collar.
CARTER
Help? I'm not the help, man -- I'm the
star. That's my band up there -- I
control the mood, the groove, the
atmosphere.
Carter cuts a smoking DANCE MOVE.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Can you do that?
(man shakes head "no")
That's why you're down here and I'm up
there. Now this is my party -- don't
forget it!
Carter walks onto the ship, starts singing to himself.
EXT. YACHT - HARBOR - CONTINUOUS
The SHIP'S HORN SOUNDS, the yacht starts to head out to sea.
Lee steps out of his car, sees the yacht is pulling out of
the slip. He runs along the side of the boat, has no choice
but to jump from the end of the pier, landing hard on the
side of the ship, somehow holding onto a PORTHOLE WINDOW. He
clings to the yacht, then throws himself toward a hanging
LIFEBOAT, climbs up the side and jumps toward the TOP RAIL --
EXT. YACHT - CONTINUOUS
As Carter walks through the ship, he grabs a handful of food
from a waiter, his eyes searching the crowd, rounds a corner
- almost stepping right into HU LI, who's approaching STEVEN
REIGN. Steven Reign is in his 50's -- perfectly groomed,
impeccably dressed - his looks and bearing say one thing --
money.
He's got the big party smile on, but as Hu Li arrives,
Reign's face shifts and his eyes go dead -- the billionaire
as sociopath.
Carter steps back, but sees Reign Whisper to Hu Li. Carter
hides and turns away as Hu Li instinctively scans the room
for signs of trouble. He heads into the main party.
Carter stops walking when he comes upon ISABELLA MOLINA, a
stunning brunette, sitting at the bar drinking a glass of
champagne. Carter lights her cigarette for her.
CARTER
How you doing, baby? My name is Prince
Mubutu from Nigeria.
ISABELLA
Isabella Molina, from San Juan. That
seat is taken.
CARTER
(in mangled Spanish)
San Juan! You must know my good friend
Pedro Martinez Hernandez Hector
Elizondo.
ISABELLA
(in English)
I don't think so.
CARTER
I'm sorry, you looked like you traveled
in the best circles. But hey, I
understand. Make yourself at home,
Isabella. Champagne, caviar, whatever
you want. My ship is your ship.
ISABELLA
This is your ship?
CARTER
That's right. I'm the owner, the
Captain -- you can call me El Capitan.
ISABELLA
El Capitan?
CARTER
I don't want to play games with you,
Isabella. I like you. I can see myself
with you -- in one of those bathrooms
over there in about five minutes.
ISABELLA
Well, I'm very tempted. It's such a
beautiful yacht. What's it called?
CARTER
Called? What's my ship called?
(he has no idea)
Well...it's called the S.S. Minnow
Johnson.
ISABELLA
The S.S. Minow Johnson. Funny, the name
on the back was "Red Dragon."
CARTER
Red Dragon? You sure about that?
ISABELLA
I'm sure, because this is my friend's
yacht. And it's his party.
CARTER
Your friend's ship?
(looking around)
Oh, man. I must've walked onto the
wrong yacht. I knew there was a reason
my keys didn't work.
STEVEN REIGN
(taking seat next to Isabella)
Who's your friend?
ISABELLA
Somebody who got on the wrong yacht.
CARTER
Wait a second. You're Steven Reign?
You're big time. You own all them big
hotels. What are you doing in Hong
Kong?
STEVEN REIGN
(ushering away Isabella)
I'm just in town for the weekend, taking
in the sights.
ISABELLA
Enjoy the party, Mr. Carter.
Carter nods, waves. Steven Reign and Isabella walk away.
Carter's watching.
INT. SHIP'S HALLWAY - NIGHT
Lee makes his way toward a STAIRCASE that is blocked by a
BODYGUARD. He quickly disarms the guard and grabs him by the
throat, pushing him against the wall.
LEE
Ricky Tan. Where is he?
BODYGUARD #1
Who's asking?
LEE
The Hong Kong Police. He killed a
detective today and he's not getting
away with it. Now where is he?
CARTER
Yeah. Tell us! And don't play games or
we'll kick your lying ass!
Lee slowly turns around and looks at Carter, who is standing
right behind him.
LEE
Carter?
CARTER
Who died?
LEE
You.
CARTER
Detective Yu? Never met him.
LEE
Not Yu. You!
CARTER
Who?
LEE
Do you understand the words that are
coming out of my mouth?
CARTER
Nobody understands the words that are
coming out of your mouth.
BODYGUARD #1
Get your hands in the air.
Lee and Carter turn to see FOUR BODYGUARDS standing in front
of them with GUNS in hand.
BODYGUARD #1 (CONT'D)
Ricky Tan is expecting you.
INT. RICKY TAN'S YACHT - MAIN CABIN - NIGHT
It looks like HUGH HEFNER'S BEDROOM complete with ROUND BED
and SUNKEN BAR. Ricky Tan sits in front of a big screen
satellite TV screaming at the Lakers. Hu Li opens the door
and the bodyguards lead Lee into the bedroom.
RICKY TAN
Come on, Shaq, hit a damn free-throw!
You can do it, big guy.
ON TV
We see Shaq miss his free throw.
RICKY TAN (CONT'D)
Shit! He still doesn't follow through.
I just lost five grand.
Tan turns off the TV, turns to Lee.
RICKY TAN (CONT'D)
Why don't we go on the deck, get some
air...and some privacy.
(to Hu Li)
Leave us alone.
Hu Li hesitates, upset at being dismissed.
RICKY TAN (CONT'D)
(to Lee)
Could you have your partner wait for us
outside?
CARTER
I ain't his partner, I'm a tourist. I
got proof. See, I got a mini-bar key.
LEE
(to Carter)
I'll meet you on the main deck in ten
minutes.
Carter pulls Lee aside.
CARTER
What, leave you alone so he can cap you?
LEE
I'm okay, you go.
CARTER
Why the hell should you believe him? He
had us beat up. Naked. That's nasty
shit.
LEE
Remember I told you my father was a
policeman?
(beat)
Ricky Tan was his partner for ten years.
CARTER
(pause)
What the hell is going on here?
No answer. Carter holds Lee's glance for a beat, then turns
and walks the other way.
EXT. RICKY TAN'S YACHT - UPPER DECK - NIGHT
Tan and Lee reach the upper deck, where they are alone.
RICKY TAN
Despite what people suspect...what you
suspect --
LEE
Don't.
Ricky Tan hears the steel in Lee's voice, acknowledges it.
RICKY TAN
... if your father were alive, I would
be turning to him now.
(beat)
I didn't blow up the American Embassy,
but I believe some of my people did. My
enemies are trying to frame me.
(beat)
There is a war going on within the
Triads -- and I am going to lose. My
name has been written into the book of
death.
LEE
The police can protect you.
RICKY TAN
Nobody can protect me. I'll make a deal
with you, Lee. But only iff you'll get
me out of Hong Kong.
LEE
Tell me why they killed the customs
agents.
RICKY TAN
There is a ship, in the Hong Kong
Harbor...
Hu Li BURSTS onto the deck, flanked by FOUR BODYGUARDS.
Ricky Tan screams something at Hu Li in Chinese. Hu Li
screams back as SHE EMPTIES HER GUN INTO RICKY'S CHEST. Tan
falls back, over the rail, and into the water.
Lee MOVES TOWARDS HU LI, but the four bodyguards are on Lee,
attacking from all sides. Hu Li exits as Lee tries to fight
off the bodyguards.
INT. RICKY TAN'S YACHT - MAIN CABIN - NIGHT
Reactions from the crowd as GUNSHOTS echo from the deck
above.
INT. SHIP'S HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Hu Li moves quickly down the hallway, rounding a corner and
suddenly goes FLYING, landing flat on her face.
It's Carter, who ran to the sound of the gunshot, and TRIPPED
Hu Li with his leg.
CARTER
All right, get your hands up.
Hu Li backflips up -- kicking Carter in the head.
EXT. UPPER DECK - CONTINUOUS
Lee takes down Bodyguard #1, but is still fighting three on
one. A furious exchange of acrobatic blows between Lee and
Bodyguard #2.
INT. SHIP'S HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Carter and Hu Li face off.
CARTER
You wanna piece of me? C'mon, I'll give
you a little LAPD ass kickin'.
Hu Li savages Carter with a series of punishing blows.
INT. UPPER DECK - CONTINUOUS
Lee manages to defeat Bodyguards #3 and #4. As he catches
his breath the sound of a SPEED BOAT starting its engines.
LEE
Hu Li!
Lee runs to the rail -- looks down to see a SPEEDBOAT
starting to pull away from the ship. Hu Li jumps onboard the
moving boat.
Lee starts to turn for the stairs, running down towards the
stern.
EXT. YACHT - STERN - CONTINUOUS
Lee and Carter run up to the stern at the same time --
watching helplessly as Hu Li gets away in the speed boat.
Carter turns his head, sees --
-- STEVEN REIGN at the other end of the boat, watching Hu Li
escape, not at all behaving like a panicky billionaire should
during a gangland shooting. Wordlessly, Reign disappears
back into the shadows.
EXT. DOCK - NIGHT
The yacht is anchored. A few TRIADS led away in handcuffs.
Thrown into PATROL CARS that have surrounded the docks.
Sterling, Chin, Lee and Carter on the dock.
SPECIAL AGENT STERLING
Quite a night, Inspector. Ricky Tan was
our only bait, and now he's gone. You
finally got your revenge - at the
expense of a U.S. Government
investigation.
CARTER
What "revenge" is he talking about?
SPECIAL AGENT STERLING
I don't know if the Fu-Cang-Long paid
you to get rid of Tan, or whether it was
a pure vendetta killing -- but you're
off this case. I don't ever want to see
you again, you got that?
CARTER
Hey, you, Secret Service Man, what are
you --
SPECIAL AGENT STERLING
Stay out of it, Carter. You're going
back to L.A.
CARTER
Fine with me.
Sterling walks away disgusted.
SUPERINDENDENT CHIN
I'm sorry Lee, but my orders are to
fully cooperate with the Secret Service.
Lee nods a respectful but bitter acknowledgment. Chin
motions for two uniformed Hong Kong police officers to
approach.
SUPERINDENDENT CHIN (CONT'D)
(to police officers)
Escort Detective Carter to the airport --
LEE
I'll take him.
CARTER
Hell no.
The Hong Kong police officers produce HANDCUFFS. Beat.
CARTER (CONT'D)
(to Lee)
Fine. But don't expect me to talk to
you.
Carter stalks off.
LEE
Don't push me, Carter. I'm in no mood
for your bullshit.
Carter gets in Lee's face. The two men look like they're
about to come to blows.
CARTER
What are you gonna do about it,
grasshopper?
LEE
I'll bitch slap you into Bangkok.
CARTER
Give me your best shot, you flat assed
mama's boy.
LEE
Don't be talking about my mama. Or my
ass!
CARTER
I heard your mama pulls a rickshaw.
LEE
No. She's a school teacher.
CARTER
You're not very good at this, are you?
LEE
Good at what?
CARTER
Forget it.
A long beat while Lee considers what to say.
LEE
Five years ago, my father was Chief
Inspector working a big international
smuggling case.
CARTER
Ask me if I give a shit.
Lee waits a beat, then drops the bombshell.
LEE
Ricky Tan killed my father.
Carter is suddenly all ears, listening intently now to Lee.
LEE (CONT'D)
He found out his partner, Tan, had been
working for the Triads all along.
(beat)
Before my father could prove it, he was
killed in the line of duty.
CARTER
How the hell did Tan get away with it?
LEE
All the evidence against him
disappeared, the smuggling case was
unsolved. Tan resigned and went over to
the Triads openly.
CARTER
(pause)
This is about your Daddy's death? Hell,
Lee, you know my father died on the job.
You could have told me...
(realizing)
This is about more than all that, isn't
it? This is about your Daddy's last
case, right?
Lee's caught, fibs badly.
LEE
No, no, that would be crazy --
CARTER
You thought the "Customs Agents get
blown up" and "smuggling" and "Ricky
Tan" and you put it all together and
came up with a five year old case.
That's why you didn't tell me what we
were doing...
LEE
I thought you'd think it was crazy.
CARTER
IT IS CRAZY!
LEE
I know. I know. I am sorry.
Lee inclines his head, stiffly, turns and walks toward his
car. Carter watches him. Finally he rolls his eyes and
yells.
CARTER
So are you getting on the plane or not?!
LEE
What?
CARTER
Come on, we still got time to order the
Kosher meal. Always get the kosher
meal, they bring it first.
LEE
I cannot go to LA...
Carter steps close, and for a second we see the man and the
cop beneath the attitude.
CARTER
It sounds impossible --
LEE
You said --
CARTER
-- but if somebody gave me the chance to
square up my father's death, I'd go to
hell to do it.
Carter turns, walks away without looking back.
CARTER (CONT'D)
You want to figure out why they killed
your Daddy, get on the plane.
LEE
Why LA?
CARTER
(still not turning)
I guess you're going to have to trust me
on this one.
INT. 747 PASSENGER COMPARTMENT
Carter and Lee are getting comfortable among all the other
passengers, preparing to take off. Lee has a moment of
doubt.
LEE
I should go back. Ricky Tan mentioned a
boat in Hong Kong Harbor...
CARTER
Lee, let me introduce you to the Carter
Theory of Criminal Investigation: Follow
the Rich White Man.
LEE
Follow the Rich White Man?
CARTER
Almost, but you've got to say "Rich
White Man" all run together like it's
one word.
LEE
Follow the RichWhiteMan...
CARTER
Not bad. Now every crime, somewhere,
has a rich white man taking his cut.
Every single one. Now in our case, we
know the rich white man is Steven Reign.
LEE
Who?
CARTER
Big hotel billionaire. He was on Ricky
Tan's boat ordering Hu Li around just
before Ricky got smoked.
LEE
How do you know he's our man?
CARTER
Because when the shooting started he was
way too cool. See most white people,
when there's shooting, they either hide
in a toilet or start screaming high
pitched like "Aaaahhh!!! Aaaahh!!!!
LEE
You sound like that all the time.
CARTER
Black people keep their cool when the
shit goes down.
LEE
Maybe. But not like Asians. We never
panic.
CARTER
Yeah, what about when Godzilla was
coming? You people were screaming your
asses off.
LEE
Just tell me where I can find this
Steven Reign.
CARTER
The same place you find all
RichWhiteMen.
(a tray arrives)
Gefilte Fish. Lox and bagel. I love
this stuff. Here, try it with a smear.
BINOCULARS P.O.V. THE REIGN TOWERS HOTEL
CUT TO REVEAL --
Carter standing at a window holding high-powered binoculars.
Lee standing next to him. WE ARE:
INT. CHEAP HOTEL ROOM - DOWNTOWN LA - NIGHT
Cartons of Chinese food are all over the sleazy, run down
hotel room. The LIGHTS LOW, the curtains open a crack.
BINOCULARS P.O.V. - THE REIGN HOTEL
Traveling up the side of the Reign Hotel. Stopping at the
penthouse floor - where we see ISABELLA talking with Steven
Reign in a hotel room. After a BEAT, Reign walks to the
door.
Carter flips the binoculars to Lee, who starts watching.
CARTER
Yeah, that's definitely the woman from
Ricky Tan's boat, and she's staying in
his suite at his hotel, I told you this
would work out. They still just
talking?
LEE
He just left. Kissed her on the cheek.
CARTER
He'll be back soon.
LEE
How do you know?
CARTER
Look at her. Now, wake me in an hour,
I'll take over.
Lee lowers the binoculars, turns to Carter, who is trying to
sleep on the bed.
LEE
Carter, there's something I have to tell
you. You were right about what you said
in Hong Kong. All I do is work. Never
take a day off. It's all I have right
now.
CARTER
Hey, I didn't mean to call you pathetic.
LEE
The truth is, I haven't had any mu-shu
in six months.
CARTER
You pull a muscle or something?
LEE
My fiancee left me over the summer -- a
month before our wedding.
CARTER
I'm sorry, Lee. Why did she leave you?
LEE
It's a long story.
CARTER
Let me guess, she couldn't handle the
cop thing -- never knowing if you were
dead or alive. I've seen it a million
times.
LEE
No. It was my singing.
CARTER
Excuse me?
LEE
She hated my voice. Said it drove her
crazy. I sang to her all the time - in
bed - in the shower - I thought she
liked it. She finally told me it was
driving her crazy.
Carter stares at Lee for a long BEAT.
CARTER
Lee, maybe it's best if we don't discuss
our personal lives. Let's die curious.
LEE LIFTS THE BINOCULARS - turns back to the building.
CARTER (CONT'D)
What's she doing?
BINOCULARS P.O.V. - ON ISABELLA
She walks to the bedroom, where we see her through SHEER
CURTAINS. Slowly taking off her coat.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Lee? You okay?
Lee's eyes go wide as Isabella drops her coat and starts to
unbutton her blouse.
LEE
She's just standing around -- not doing
much.
CARTER
Just don't fall asleep. Sooner or later
something's gonna happen.
LEE
I'll try to stay awake. It's so boring.
Isabella starts to remove her blouse. Lee starting to sweat
as he watches her undress.
LEE (CONT'D)
Slow down, baby.
CARTER
What did you say?
LEE
Nothing. I said nothing.
Lee lowers his binoculars, steps away from the window.
LEE (CONT'D)
Is it hot in here?
CARTER
Hot? I'm freezing my ass off.
LEE
I'm gonna go in the hall and get a
bucket of ice. You want some ice?
CARTER
What's going on?
Lee stares at Carter, looks dazed.
LEE
She's getting undressed.
CARTER
Gimme the binoculars.
LEE
No. It's not right.
CARTER
Gimme the binoculars or I will shoot
you.
Lee hands Carter the binoculars, then turns his back as
Carter watches to the window.
LEE
What's she doing?
CARTER
Oh, sweet glory hallelujah...
LEE
I don't want to hear this.
CARTER
Skirt just came off. She's in black bra
and panties -- Victoria Secret Spring
Catalogue, page 27 -- wait a sec -
there's a tattoo on her left thigh... it
looks like Snoopy.
LEE
Snoopy? I love Snoopy.
CARTER
She just took her hair down. Now she's
going for the bra -- the clasp is in
front -- she's using both hands.
(to Lee)
You better get that ice.
Lee steps in front of Carter, blocking his view.
LEE
That's enough. We shouldn't be doing
this!
Isabella suddenly drops undressing and walks back to the
living room to pick up the PHONE. We see her clearly now in
bra and panties.
CARTER
This is our job. We took an oath as
police officers. If we don't do this,
who will? Firemen?
Lee backs off, and Carter steps back to the window. He sees
Isabella hang up the phone.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Wait a sec - what the hell is that
between her legs?
LEE
What?
CARTER
She's reaching into her panties --
something is strapped to her leg. Oh,
God...please don't let it be a dick.
LEE
What is it?
CARTER
No, I don't believe this shit -- it's a
microphone. Lee, she's wired...
CLOSE ON ISABELLA
As she turns to the window. A TAPE RECORDER in hand. She
puts the recording device away, walks back into the bedroom
and puts on a robe.
LEE
I don't understand?
CARTER
She's walking back towards the door.
BINOCULARS P.O.V.
We see Isabella wearing a robe - standing at the door of her
hotel room talking with someone.
CARTER (CONT'D)
She opened the door. Someone is
delivering a package.
BINOCULARS P.O.V.
Inside the hotel room WE SEE HU LI handing her a package.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Lee...it's the girl who delivered the
package to your office. It's a bomb!
Lee and Carter bolt on the move - sprinting out of the room.
INT. REIGN TOWERS HOTEL - PENTHOUSE SUITE - NIGHT
Isabella closes the door. She BRINGS THE BOMB WITH HER as
she walks into the bedroom --
EXT. REIGN TOWERS HOTEL - CONTINUOUS
Carter and Lee run across the street, heading towards the
entrance of the hotel.
INT. REIGN TOWERS HOTEL - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Lee and Carter sprint out the Penthouse Elevators, running
down the hallway.
INT. REIGN TOWERS HOTEL - PENTHOUSE SUITE - CONTINUOUS
Isabella takes her robe off, glances at the package, picks it
up and starts to open it as Lee and Carter come BURSTING
THROUGH the BEDROOM DOOR.
LEE/CARTER
NO!
Carter and Lee stare at Isabella, who stands in bra and
panties.
CARTER
Damn girl, you fine.
Lee lowers his eyes as Isabella looks at him, grabbing the
BOMB, Carter following him as they sprint out the bedroom.
INT. REIGN TOWERS HOTEL - CONTINUOUS
Lee and Carter run out the suite - Lee throwing the BOMB
toward the END OF THE HALL as he and Carter dive to the
floor.
Nothing happens.
Lee looks up, SEES a HOTEL EMPLOYEE pushing a room service
CART, about to walk right past the package --
LEE
GET DOWN!!
Lee and Carter run back to the bomb.
CARTER
Pick it up!
LEE
It's your turn!
CARTER
I don't need a turn!
Carter picks it up, starts running with it through the hall,
heading for the elevator.
LEE
Throw it!
Carter is about to throw it in, when HE SEES AN OLDER COUPLE
STANDING INSIDE.
HOTEL GUESTS
Do you want us to hold the elevator?
CARTER
Get the hell away from here!
Carter is still holding the bomb, doesn't know what to do
with it --
LEE
Stairs!
Carter throws him the bomb, and Lee runs to the stairs --
INT. STAIRWELL - NIGHT
Lee is about to throw the bomb down the stairwell -- when he
sees TWO MAIDS WALKING toward him.
CARTER
Get out of the building!
Lee looks horrified as he hangs onto the package, has no
choice but to throw it back to Carter.
LEE
Roof!
EXT. REIGN TOWERS HOTEL - ROOF - NIGHT
Lee and Carter burst through the roof door - Carter trying to
hold the bomb as far away from himself as possible.
He looks over the side for a place to dump it - the streets
are filled with PEOPLE AND CARS.
LEE
Wait! There's people down there!
CARTER
There's people up here!
LEE
Get it out of here!
CARTER
Take it!
Lee takes the bomb, quickly ROLLS IT across the roof -- Lee
and Carter diving to the ground once again as the bomb slides
to the center of the roof - COMING TO A STOP RIGHT IN FRONT
OF ISABELLA. She's wearing a bathrobe now, clearly pissed
off as she slowly bends down and picks up the package.
ISABELLA
Get on your feet.
Lee and Carter stand and face Isabella - watch as Isabella
begins to open the package.
CARTER
I wouldn't do that!!!
LEE
It's a bomb.
Isabella opens the package, removing a stack of a HUNDRED
DOLLAR BILLS.
ISABELLA
You see, no bomb. Now stay away before
I throw you both in jail for
obstruction.
CARTER
Throw us in jail? I'm about to bust you
right now.
ISABELLA
I'm an undercover agent for the United
States Secret Service.
CARTER
How do we know you're not lying? Let me
see your badge.
Isabella opens her bathrobe -- WE SEE a small BADGE pinned to
her bra.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Let me see it again?
LEE
We can help you. I'm a detective in
Hong Kong.
ISABELLA
I know who you are, Inspector Lee.
LEE
Then you know I'm not walking away from
this case.
CARTER
Yeah, that's right.
ISABELLA
We need to get out of sight. Come down
to my suite.
INT. ISABELLA'S SUITE - LATER
ISABELLA
(she locks the door)
Look, I've been working this case for
months now...
CARTER
So what's your story?
ISABELLA
They think I'm a crooked customs agent.
Lee examines the stack of HUNDRED DOLLAR BILLS from Hu Li's
package. Carter checks out the suite, pocketing some of the
food from the mini fridge.
LEE
Is this a payoff?
ISABELLA
No. It's a sample. You guys ever heard
of the Superbill?
CARTER
It's a myth. Some kind of counterfeit.
ISABELLA
It's much more than a counterfeit. 14
out of 15 world banks can't tell the
difference. The paper is Crane linen
blend -- and the bills are printed on
U.S. Intaglio presses.
CARTER
How're they getting into the U.S. Mint
to use the presses?
ISABELLA
In 1959, the United States was very
friendly with the Shah of Iran. We
wanted his oil, so for the Shah's
birthday, the government gave him a gift
-- a U.S. Treasury Intaglio press. The
only one to ever leave the country.
Five years ago Ricky Tan bought that
press on the black market.
LEE
Five years ago?!
(beat)
That's right before he left the force.
Lee and Carter exchange looks.
ISABELLA
It wasn't hard to spot the fakes until
this past year. Then Tan got hold of
one of a kind Swiss made hundred dollar
plates -- and started making superbills.
LEE
(understanding)
And Hu Li killed him for the plates.
ISABELLA
Yes. They've printed and shipped one
hundred million dollars, and there's
only one way to spot a fake.
Isabella lights a HUNDRED DOLLAR BILL on fire, and it burns
RED.
ISABELLA (CONT'D)
They use an optical transfer ink from
India that burns red -- the real ink
burns black.
CARTER
What the hell are they going to do with
a hundred million dollars in funny
money?
ISABELLA
The real question is, where are the
plates? If we can find the plates, we
can stop the whole operation.
Isabella thinks for a beat.
ISABELLA (CONT'D)
Maybe that's where you can help us.
Carter, this is your city, right?
Carter nods.
ISABELLA (CONT'D)
And Lee, you know Hu Li and the Triads?
Lee nods.
ISABELLA (CONT'D)
Okay, find out where Hu Li's keeping the
plates.
(hands Lee a card with a phone
number)
Welcome aboard, gentlemen. From this
moment on, you're working for the United
States Secret Service.
Isabella opens the door to let Lee and Carter out. They exit
quickly, trying to hide their excitement. CAMERA STAYS on
Isabella as she takes out her CELL PHONE, punches in a
number.
STERLING (O.S.)
Sterling.
ISABELLA
Lee and Carter are officially out of the
Secret Service's way...
EXT. REIGN TOWERS HOTEL - CONTINUOUS
Lee and Carter, both wearing dark sunglasses, walk through
the street trying their best to look like Secret Service
Agents. They approach Carter's parked VETTE.
CARTER
Secret Service Agent Carter. This is my
calling, Lee.
Give me six months and I'll be in
Washington protecting a white guy.
LEE
We both know you would never take a
bullet for someone else.
CARTER
They don't know that. What are they
gonna do, try and shoot the President
during the interview? I'll bet Isabella
can pull some strings. You saw the way
she was staring at me.
LEE
She never even looked at you.
CARTER
You're just jealous 'cos the girl picked
me. I'm tall, dark and handsome, you're
third world ugly.
LEE
I am not third world ugly. Women like
me, they think I'm cute. Like Snoopy.
CARTER
Snoopy is about six inches taller than
you. I'm sorry, Lee, you never had a
chance.
Carter's had the last word, he gets into the Vette. Lee
reluctantly gets in, too.
EXT. CRENSHAW KITCHEN - CHINESE SOUL FOOD RESTAURANT - NIGHT
Carter's Vette pulls up in front of a hole in the wall.
INT. CRENSHAW KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
Carter and Lee pass through the restaurant, only two tables
are occupied.
INT. KITCHEN
Carter and Lee enter the busy kitchen where the OWNER, a
BLACK MAN named KENNY, is yelling in Chinese to an over
worked waiter. Kenny's wife, a spectacular looking Chinese
woman, works the stove. A couple of cute half-black, half
Asian kids run around the kitchen.
CARTER
Kenny! How you doin'?
Kenny looks up at Carter. A cool, appraising glance.
CARTER (CONT'D)
How's the action tonight? The house
making out okay?
Kenny follows as Carter opens a door to --
INT. BACK ROOM - CONTINUOUS
MEN seated around several card tables, playing MAH-JONGG for
big money. Lee and Kenny follow Carter inside. It's very
smokey and very crowded.
CARTER
(to Kenny)
This is where I say I'm LAPD in a loud
voice, they all scream and run and shit.
Watch. It's real funny.
Kenny grabs Carter's shoulder, pulling him aside.
KENNY
Come with me.
INT. KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
Kenny leads Carter and Lee in, closes the door.
KENNY
Hear you got your ass kicked in Hong
Kong, James.
CARTER
What?? Where'd you hear that?
KENNY
I got my sources.
CARTER
And I got mine, meaning you. Nice how
that works out.
(beat)
I'm serious this time, I'm closing this
place down.
KENNY
James, you see my kids back there? You
know how much I'm paying for private
school? How can you come in here with
this attitude, you being little Chang's
godfather?
CARTER
Little Chang is gonna have to go visit
his daddy in jail if you don't
cooperate.
KENNY
Jail!? James, you better back off.
Badge or no badge, I'll kick your ass.
CARTER
I'd like to see you try.
Kenny takes a step back and throws a lightning fast martial
arts move. Lee gets in front of Carter to protect him --
countering Kenny's move.
KENNY
(to Lee)
We're on, then.
Kenny throws out another precision martial arts sequence --
Lee BLOCKS -- Kenny ends in an advanced fighting stance.
LEE
(impressed)
That's a good Twisting Tiger -- where
did you learn that?
They switch to Chinese.
KENNY
Master Ching taught me.
LEE
The Praying Mantis school, in Bejing?
KENNY
No. Freddy Ching's, in Crenshaw.
Lee smiles, Carter looks back and forth from Lee to Kenny.
KENNY (CONT'D)
What are you doing hanging out with Baby
Duck?
LEE
Baby Duck?
KENNY
That's what we all used to call him when
he was a kid -- cause he was always
quacking. Never shut up.
CARTER
I heard that.
Lee and Kenny laugh.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Look, I need some info and I don't have
time to play around.
KENNY
Is this about the funny money?
CARTER
How'd you know?
KENNY
You've been asking loud questions in all
the wrong places all morning. How come
you always save me for last, James?
When are you gonna learn. Shit don't
happen I don't know about.
CARTER
So tell me what you know.
KENNY
I know Teddy Wu is cranking out a pretty
good double sawbuck -- but you knew that
too, didn't you?
CARTER
Yeah. We already been there. This is
big, Kenny. Benjamins. Secret Service
calls 'em superbills. Banks can't even
tell the difference.
Kenny considers this for a moment.
CARTER (CONT'D)
What?
KENNY
One of my regulars lost fifty thousand
dollars at the table here last week. I
was about to send my boys down to tune
his ass up, when the guy comes in and
pays off the whole thing. Including the
vig -- brand new sequential hundred
dollar bills. I knew something was
wrong. Cause this guy's got a regular
job, no way he comes up with fifty grand
in cash.
But I tested the bills, infrared. The
whole thing. And they checked out.
100%.
LEE
Do you still have the bills?
KENNY
I still have my lunch money from third
grade.
CARTER
Lemme see 'em.
Kenny pushes a Chinese painting aside to reveal a WALL SAFE.
He opens the safe and hands Carter a $100 bill. Carter
checks it out.
KENNY
See. It's perfect.
Carter takes out a LIGHTER and holds the flame to it.
KENNY (CONT'D)
Whoa, what are you doing?
Kenny's question is answered as the BILL BURNS BRIGHT RED.
KENNY (CONT'D)
(pissed off)
I knew it. The guy's name is Zing. He
works at the kitchen at Reign Plaza.
CARTER
All right, Kenny. Thanks. You're off
the hook. For now.
Carter and Lee move for the door.
KENNY
You sure you guys don't want to stay and
have a bite? My wife's got the best mu
shu this side of Compton.
Carter and Lee exchange a look as we CUT TO:
EXT. REIGN PLAZA - DAY
Establishing. Carter and Lee park their car and walk inside.
EXT. REIGN SHIPPING ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Carter and Lee enter.
CARTER
(to a worker)
We're looking for a guy named Zing. Is
he here?
Zing hears Carter, turns and sees them. Then RUNS. Carter
and Lee exchange looks and run after him.
INT. HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Zing sprints down an employee hallway, through a doorway and
down some stairs. Carter and Lee in pursuit.
EXT. LOADING DOCK PLATFORM - REIGN PLAZA - CONTINUOUS
Carter and Lee burst out the door at the bottom of the
stairway -- coming almost face to face with --
HU LI
Who has her gun out. Waiting for them. ISABELLA is standing
near by, and ZING is visible off to the side. An 18-WHEELER
in the loading bay is just being shut and locked. A LIMO is
parked beside it.
Lee and Carter both assume fighting positions. When most of
the other WORKERS pull guns; other TRIAD SOLDIERS step out,
putting their guns close on Lee and Carter. They can't blink
without getting mowed down.
HU LI
(in Chinese)
The great Chief Inspector Lee -- I will
be remembered for ridding the Triads of
your petulance.
Hu Li savors the moment.
CARTER
I hope you just said I have no business
being here, 'cos I was just leaving.
Carter starts to leave, and Hu Li trains her gun on him,
freezing him in his tracks. Isabella slowly walks several
feet, ending up behind Lee as she speaks.
ISABELLA
Hu Li, I think there's someone who will
want to talk to them first.
Hu Li looks at Isabella, nods an acknowledgement. BANG! Lee
falls. Isabella's knocked him out from behind with the butt
of her gun.
BANG! Carter drops to one knee as Hu Li POUNDS him across
the jaw with her fist.
CARTER
...oh, that's a filling right there.
That's gonna cost you.
Hu Li lunges forward and KICKS Carter, sending him backwards.
HU LI
Put them in the truck.
The WORKERS pick up Lee, bring him to the back of the truck.
CARTER
I should kill you right now, but I'm
gonna let you live, 'cause you're fine,
and maybe you can be reformed.
The WORKERS start towards Carter. He holds up his hands.
CARTER (CONT'D)
No more hitting. I'll get in the truck
myself.
As Carter walks towards the truck by Hu Li, they exchange a
look of sheer hatred. As soon as he passes by her, Hu Li
COLDCOCKS Carter with her gun.
EXT. LOADING DOCK PLATFORM - DAY
The eighteen wheeler, the limo and the black Lincoln Town car
pull out of the loading dock, headed for the highway.
EXT. EIGHTEEN WHEELER - DAY
The truck pulls onto a HIGHWAY, the LIMO close behind it.
INT. EIGHTEEN WHEELER - TRUCK BED - DAY
LEE and CARTER are in the back with crates filled with MONEY.
They're both in pain, trying to recover from the head blows.
Carter is flexing his battered body.
LEE
Are you okay?
CARTER
What's the first thing I told you --
never trust nobody. How could you fall
for that shit? I knew she was dirty.
LEE
She saved our lives.
CARTER
For how long? Face it, Lee, she's
playing both sides.
Lee looks disappointed.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Look, man I'm sorry. I know you got a
thing for her.
LEE
Shhh, my head hurts.
CARTER
I'm about to be killed and you "Shhh"
me! This wasn't my case, Lee. Ricky
Tan didn't kill my father, the Fu-Cang
Long are not in South Central. I didn't
have to help you.
LEE
Why did you help me?
CARTER
It doesn't matter.
Lee thinks about this for a BEAT.
LEE
I'm not used to having a partner.
CARTER
We are not partners. Between your
daddy, my daddy, and the beating I just
took, as far as I can tell all partners
get you is dead.
LEE
Well we're not friends.
CARTER
You got that right. And we ain't
brothers. Maybe we should just end this
right here.
LEE
Fine with me.
CARTER
I won't talk to you, you don't talk to
me. We'll die in peace.
LEE
See you in the next world.
A BEAT OF SILENCE
CARTER
I don't believe in reincarnation. So I
won't see you in the next world.
LEE
Fine.
CARTER
I believe in heaven. You people believe
in heaven?
LEE
Yes. We have heaven.
CARTER
Is it the same heaven, or is it a
Chinese heaven?
LEE
What's a Chinese heaven?
CARTER
I thought it might be like those five
foot and under basketball leagues. They
don't let everybody in.
LEE
I think we should stop talking.
CARTER
Fine by me.
ANOTHER BEAT OF SILENCE
CARTER (CONT'D)
You thinking about that girl that dumped
you?
LEE
No.
CARTER
If she was the right girl, you'd be
thinking about her.
LEE
Mind your own business.
CARTER
How was the sex?
LEE
There was no sex. She was very
traditional. We were waiting until we
were married.
CARTER
You're kidding. No sex? Nothing? No
mu-shu?
LEE
No mu-shu.
CARTER
What about a little king pao chicken?
LEE
No kung pao chicken. Never.
CARTER
Steamed dumplings?
LEE
Once in a while, steamed dumplings. But
only when she was drunk.
CARTER
That's rough, man. If I don't get
steamed dumplings once a week, I go
crazy.
LEE
Tell me the truth, Carter. Do you think
I have a good voice?
CARTER
Are you serious?
LEE
Forget it. It doesn't matter.
Lee turns away from Carter.
CARTER
As long as you're asking...I think you
have a pretty good voice.
LEE
I knew it. What does she know. You
want me to sing something?
CARTER
That depends. How do the Fu-Cang-Long
usually kill their victims?
LEE
They'll probably torture us first, shock
our privates, then put two bullets in
our eyes and one in the back of the
head.
CARTER
Go ahead. Sing your ass off.
Lee clears his voice.
LEE
Did you happen to see the most beautiful
girl in the world...and if you did, was
she crying, crying...hey!
EXT. DESERT HIGHWAY - DAY
The 18-WHEELER drives by followed by the LIMO.
INT. LIMOUSINE - DAY
Hu Li and Isabella sit in the back of one of the limos that
is driving behind the truck. Hu Li is on the car phone.
HU LI
Don't worry, the plates are safe. Yes,
the dragon's been fed.
She HANGS UP and glances at Isabella, who is doing her best
to appear completely uninterested.
EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY
The LIMO splits off from the 18-WHEELER.
INT. 18-WHEELER - TRUCK BED - CONTINUOUS
Carter works at opening one of the crates. Lee steps up,
takes a deep breath, searches the crate looking for the sweet
spot, and PUNCHES a hole in one of the thick boards. They
start prying the crate open.
CARTER
Very nice.
LEE
It's focus. Every opponent has a weak
spot. You ignore everything around you,
and put all your energy into one perfect
strike.
CARTER
I'll remember that next time I'm
fighting a box.
Carter opens the crate -- it's filled with SUPERBILLS, about
$1,000,000 worth. He tosses a stack to Lee.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Hello, Benjamin.
LEE
Who's Benjamin?
CARTER
Benjamin Franklin, he discovered
electricity.
LEE
A Chinese man discovered electricity.
CARTER
No Chinese man discovered electricity.
LEE
Yes he did. He also invented the
bicycle.
CARTER
Now that I believe.
Carter pockets two stacks of superbills. Lee looks at him.
CARTER (CONT'D)
You never know. Besides, I always
wanted to die rich.
The truck lurches.
LEE
We're slowing down. This must be it.
CARTER
End of the line.
LEE
You've been a good friend, James Carter.
CARTER
Oh no you don't. Don't you be getting
corny on me, Lee. I'll kick your ass
from here to Compton.
LEE
You could never kick my ass. You mama's
boy.
CARTER
Don't you talk about my mama.
(winks at Lee)
That's more like it.
EXT. 18-WHEELER - CONTINUOUS
The truck is parked in the underground loading docks. It's
approached by FOUR TRIAD SOLDIERS. Soldier #1 opens the
TRUCK'S DOUBLE DOORS to find.
Lee and Carter are gone. Except for boxes of money, the
truck bed is EMPTY.
Two soldiers enter the truck bed.
ANGLE UP TO REVEAL
Lee and Carter WEDGED up against the CEILING of the truck
bed. Above the doors and over the soldiers.
Lee and Carter SWING DOWN in unison -- knocking both soldiers
to the ground. In the next instant:
ON LEE
still holding on to the door frame -- swings and backflips
onto the roof of the truck.
ON CARTER
who swings onto the ground -- grabbing one of the guards to
use a shield as gunfire erupts.
Lee jumps off the truck, knocking the last guard to the
ground. He then grabs the guard Carter is using as a shield
and together THEY SWING him into the truck -- KNOCKING DOWN
the first two guards.
Carter and Lee slam the back doors SHUT -- bolting them
CLOSED and run like hell - scrambling into what looks like
the closest way out:
A LARGE OPEN PIPE on the side of the tunnel.
INT. SEWER TUNNEL - CONTINUOUS
Lee and Carter run through - it extends out from the
underground loading docks.
LEE
This way. I see some lights.
Lee and Carter spot a tiny sliver of light coming through a
MANHOLE COVER. They start climbing up the metal stairs that
lead up to the street.
EXT. LAS VEGAS BLVD. - DUSK
The blvd.'s packed with PEOPLE and CARS.
CLOSE ON
Lee and Carter coming up from the manhole -- standing
together in stunned disbelief as they look out at the LAS
VEGAS STRIP. They cover their eyes, blinded by the greatest
light show in the world.
LEE
Vegas...
CARTER
Lee. I just got an idea how someone
could launder a hundred million dollars
in cash.
They both turn around and come FACE TO FACE WITH:
A TEN-STORY DRAGON. Fire shoots from its nostrils every 60
SECONDS.
EXT. RED DRAGON HOTEL AND CASINO - NIGHT
FIRE BALLS BLOW out over the strip as Lee and Carter look up
at the RED DRAGON. The HUGE NEON SIGN READS: GRAND OPENING -
EVERYBODY'S A WINNER!
Lee and Carter come out of the sewer.
LEE
Red Dragon.
CARTER
That was the name of Ricky Tan's boat.
Lee and Carter watch as limos pull up to the front of the
hotel -- it's like a HOLLYWOOD PREMIERE. The richest of the
rich are making their way inside.
LEE
Let's go.
CARTER
Wait a second. We can't go in like
this. Look at this place, we gotta look
fly. We gotta Mac out.
LEE
What is Mac out?
CARTER
Follow me my Asian brother.
Carter and Lee start to walk away.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Just stay down wind, because I think you
stepped in some serious rat shit down
there.
EXT. VERSACE BOUTIQUE - NIGHT
Lee and Carter are walking into the upscale clothing store.
INT. VERSACE BOUTIQUE - CONTINUOUS
As they enter, a SALESMAN approaches them.
SALESMAN
May I help you gentlemen?
Carter flashes his biggest smile as he pulls out a stack of
superbills.
CARTER
Black. 42-long. Nothing touches this
body but pure silk. And get my partner
something from the children's
department.
Carter puts his hand on Lee's shoulder.
SALESMAN
Would your partner like silk as well? I
personally like it when a couple
matches.
Carter takes his hand off Lee's shoulder.
CARTER
Couple? No, you got it wrong, there's
no couple here. Just two single police
officers working a very dangerous case.
LEE
Yes. We have lots of big men chasing
us.
SALESMAN
I'm sure all the boys are chasing you
two. Don't worry, I'll make you guys
the bell of the ball.
He WINKS as he walks off, and Carter looks at Lee.
CARTER
This is the last time I go shopping with
you.
EXT. RED DRAGON - NIGHT
Lee and Carter enter frame, dressed to kill - perfectly
tailored couture Versace suits, gold watches, the whole bit.
Le is awkward in "player" guise.
CARTER
(whispering)
Remember, Lee, you're a player now. You
own the place.
Carter pulls out his ALTOIDS, and he and Lee each take one as
they walk through the doors.
LEE
I own the place.
INT. RED DRAGON - CONTINUOUS
Carter STRUTS through the lobby, Lee doing his best to
imitate Carter's pimp and roll. THEY WALK PAST THE GIANT
BUDDHA --
CARTER
That looks exactly like my Uncle
Darrell.
LEE
Buddha is the symbol of luck and good
fortune.
CARTER
Buddha is the symbol for fat and lazy.
The man has the biggest tits in Asia.
They are moving through the MAIN ENTRY HALL lined with TERRA
COTTA CHINESE SOLDIERS - posed and dressed for battle.
RICKSHAWS and BICYCLES take people through the hotel. The
MAIN CASINO is roped off and empty. People crowded around
the perimeter - a sign reads:
SIGN
$50,000 buy in -- EVERYBODY'S A WINNER!
The LIGHTS DIM - a spotlight comes on and finds STEVEN REIGN
on the balcony overlooking the ENTRANCE.
STEVEN REIGN
A thousand years ago, a small, wealthy
village in China hired a young Dragon to
guard their treasure in a cave, hoping
to scare off potential bandits. Their
plan worked quite well, until the people
of the village started sneaking the
Dragon extra food -- hoping to make him
bigger and stronger. The Dragon ate so
much and grew so big -- that he
eventually got stuck inside the cave --
and the treasure was stuck behind him
for all eternity.
(beat)
Ladies and gentlemen, I have found that
lost treasure. It is here, inside the
greatest casino in the world! Welcome
to the Red Dragon, where everybody is a
winner!
Reign smiles, flips a switch -- the CASINO COMES TO LIFE.
Fireworks, bright lights, endless rows of tables, dealers
waiting.
A BAND PLAYS on a stage in the casino lounge.
Chinese ACROBATS perform suspended from the ceiling and on
the balconies above.
Applause all around as the FLAME shoots out of the dragon's
nostrils and the acrobats perform. Carter and Lee walk down
the red carpet.
CARTER
(to waitress)
Bring us some twelve-year old scotch...
(to a cigarette girl)
Get us a box of your finest cigars.
(to a change girl)
Give me ten dollars in nickels.
INT. CASINO - NIGHT
CLOSE ON
Dice ROLLING on a craps table.
CRAPS DEALER
Winner! Seven!
We see BLACKJACK DEALERS BUSTING - paying out CUSTOMERS.
Hundred dollar slot machines paying out jackpots.
GAMBLERS winning all over the casino. Then going to the main
cage and exchanging their chips for SUPERBILLS.
CARTER
Look at this place, Lee. The biggest
front in the world.
As people pour into the casino, Steven Reign is making his
way through the crowd, shaking hands and posing for pictures.
LEE
Carter...here comes the rich white man.
CARTER
Wait here. I'll handle this.
As Carter walks off, a WOMAN grabs Lee and pulls him onto the
dance floor.
INT. LOUNGE - CONTINUOUS
The woman spins to face Lee, her face half-hidden under the
dance floor lights.
ISABELLA
Put your arms around me.
LEE
Excuse me?
Isabella grabs him around the waist, pulls him close.
ISABELLA
Hold me close. There's cameras
everywhere.
An ASIAN BAND sings STRANGERS IN THE NIGHT as Lee tries his
best to slow dance. An intimate moment between Isabella and
Lee, her face nestled in the crook of his neck, hiding her
face.
LEE
What's going on?
ISABELLA
I need your help.
LEE
Last time you needed my help I ended up
in the back of a truck.
ISABELLA
I'm undercover. I had no choice. You
have to trust me.
Lee starts to get into the music, moving his hips in a slow,
sensual rhythm.
ISABELLA (CONT'D)
You move well.
LEE
Just trying to make it look real.
ISABELLA
Look over there. That's the eye in the
sky room.
Lee looks over her shoulder.
ISABELLA (CONT'D)
Behind me is the soft count room. We're
pretty sure the plates are back there.
LEE
Why don't you go get them?
ISABELLA
If I'm wrong then my cover is blown.
INT. CASINO - NIGHT
As Steven Reign makes his way through the casino, Carter
steps right in front of him, giving him a big hug.
CARTER
Stevie, how's it going my man? Somebody
get a picture, we can use it for a mug
shot.
STEVEN REIGN
Detective Carter, you always seem to
show up where you don't belong.
CARTER
Lemme ask you something, Steven. And I
want the truth. Is there any way I can
date your daughter? Just dinner and a
movie, maybe go listen to some jazz...
STEVEN REIGN
Vegas has been my town for 30 years. I
crawled out from under the first rock.
Do you really think you can intimidate
me here?
CARTER
You're right, you're a smart guy. Most
counterfeiters only get ten cents on the
dollar. But this is an even swap. Pure
genius.
STEVEN REIGN
You play games with me, Detective, and
you'll lose every time. Don't forget.
The odds are always in favor of the
house.
Reign walks off with his men. Carter watches him leave.
INT. DANCE FLOOR - NIGHT
Lee is dancing close with Isabella.
ISABELLA
The Secret Service almost busted Reign
at his casino in Macao, but the place
burned down before we could move in.
LEE
How do I know I can trust you?
ISABELLA
Dip me!
Lee dips her, holds her in his arms for a long BEAT.
ISABELLA (CONT'D)
I'm asking for real now -- will you help
the Secret Service?
LEE
No.
(beat)
But I'll help you.
Lee holds her for a long BEAT, their lips almost touching.
He finally lets her go, and she disappears into the crowd.
Carter walks up, sees Lee standing alone on the dance floor.
CARTER
Lee, what the hell are you doing?
LEE
Dancing?
CARTER
Dancing? I'm out here trying to strong
arm Steven Reign, putting my life on the
line, and you're up here dancing with
some bimbo. Did she have a friend?
LEE
It was Isabella. She says the plates
are in the soft count room.
Lee motions to the room, where WE SEE a SECURITY GUARD
standing in front of a small door.
CARTER
Isabella? Are you crazy, man? She
almost got us killed. She's setting you
up again!
LEE
No. I'm going to find out.
CARTER
Wait a second. There's guards all over
the place. You'll need a distraction.
Carter looks around the casino.
CARTER (CONT'D)
I'll go to the craps table, make a big
scene. When security comes over, you
make your move.
LEE
Try to keep them busy for five minutes.
CARTER
I'll give it my best shot.
INT. CASINO - CONTINUOUS
Carter walks up to a CRAPS TABLE, everyone turning to stare.
CRAPS DEALER
Sir, you're aware that we require a
fifty-thousand dollar buy in to gamble
here this weekend?
Carter throws a HUNDRED THOUSAND in $100 BILLS onto the
table.
CARTER
I saw the sign, I can read. Now gimme a
hundred-thousand in chips. And a Diet
Coke and some wash-n-dries. Let's move,
people, I came to play.
The DEALER pushes 100K worth of CHIPS in front of Carter.
CARTER (CONT'D)
What the hell is that?
CRAPS DEALER
Those are five hundred dollar chips.
CARTER
Did you give me five-hundred dollar
chips because I'm black?
CRAPS DEALER
No, I just assumed...
CARTER
You assumed a brother coming in here can
only afford five-hundred dollars a roll,
is that right? Are you a racist?
CRAPS DEALER
No, sir.
CARTER
(starting to scream)
Everyone else at the table has thousand
dollar chips, but the black man gets the
nickel, is that it? Did my people
survive two-hundred years of slavery so
you could send us back to the cotton
fields with five-hundred dollar chips?
Do I look like Chicken George to you?
The PIT BOSS gets on his walkie-talkie.
PIT BOSS
Floor security, we have a problem at
table nine.
EXT. SOFT COUNT ROOM - NIGHT
The SECURITY GUARD lowers his walkie-talkie, starts moving
towards Carter's table.
INT. CRAPS TABLE - NIGHT
TWO SECURITY GUARDS approach Carter's table.
CARTER
Answer me one question. How come Ben
Vereen isn't performing here at the
hotel? Is Ben Vereen not good enough
for you people?
PIT BOSS
Lionel Ritchie is performing here
tonight.
CARTER
Lionel Ritchie hasn't been black since
the Commodores.
PIT BOSS
Sir, you're going to have to calm down.
Carter watches as Lee moves past the guard and makes his way
into the soft count room.
CARTER
I have a dream, where black people and
white people can gamble together without
getting different chips!
A BIG CROWD has gathered as the Security Guards try and push
their way through. The pit boss picks up the phone, calls
upstairs.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Sing with me! "We shall overcome!"
Carter starts clapping, and the confused crowd joins in as
the Security Guards move in.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Thank you. Now in the spirit of
brotherhood, let's play craps!
INT. HALLWAY - NIGHT
Lee walks into the hallway, moving like a cat as he hugs the
walls and tries to make his way to the soft count room.
He hears noise, TWO SECURITY GUARDS coming behind him through
the casino door. He has no choice but to crawl over the back
of a money cart and hug the top. He lies as still as he can,
trying not to be seen -- until he realizes he's staring
directly into the EYE IN THE SKY cameras that are in the
ceiling.
WE SEE LEE'S FACE
as he passes directly under the camera, clearly mouthing the
words "oh shit" as he rolls by.
Lee looks to his left, sees the SOFT COUNT ROOM -- a mountain
of COUNTERFEIT SUPERBILLS that are waiting to be paid out.
On the opposite side, the REAL MONEY is being WHEELED OUT
toward a waiting TRUCK that is parked at the back door.
Lee sees two more cameras in the ceiling, knows his cover is
blown. He jumps down off the cart, is standing in front of
the locked vault. There's no way to get the plates.
Isabella has set him up again.
He turns and smiles at the confused SECURITY GUARDS.
LEE
Hi. How's it going? You guys have
change for a twenty?
The GUARDS make their move. And Lee starts to fight them
down the hall, using the cart as a shield as he RAMS into TWO
MORE GUARDS, fights them off as he turns the corner toward
the casino door -- but he gets slammed to the ground by a
right cross.
Hu Li threw the punch, a roll of quarters in her hand as she
stands over him with FIVE TRIAD SOLDIERS. She holds a knife
to Lee's throat.
HU LI
(in Chinese)
Open your mouth.
She puts the small grenade in Lee's mouth, tapes it shut.
She holds the detonator in her hand.
HU LI (CONT'D)
(continuing in Chinese)
That's a ying-tao grenade, Inspector.
Please follow me or I'll blow 32 teeth
into your brain.
INT. CASINO - CONTINUOUS
A crowd has gathered behind Carter who is at the table
rolling dice, a huge stack of chips in front of him.
CRAPS DEALER
Winner six!
CARTER
How much is that?
CRAPS DEALER
Two-hundred thousand!
CARTER
Two-hundred thousand dollars? Who wants
a hundred dollars?
Carter turns to the MAN next to him, who wears a traditional
AFRICAN ROBE and is standing with a giant blonde escort.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Here, your highness, have a hundred
dollars. The Viagra is on me tonight!
GAMBLER
(South African accent)
I am not royalty, sir.
CARTER
Don't say that, we're all royalty. My
great grandmammy was Queen Nephertit --
we probably cousins, man. How much you
got on the table?
GAMBLER
One million.
CARTER
Yeah, we definitely cousins now. Who
wants to blow on my hand for luck?
Carter turns to a BIG TEXAN who is standing with a GORGEOUS
YOUNG GIRL who is falling out of her dress.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Hey, Marlboro man, you mind if your lady
blows on my hand for luck?
TEXAN
(embarrassed)
She's not my lady. She's my niece.
CARTER
Can I come over for Thanksgiving? Come
on, baby, give me some luck.
The GIRL blows on the dice, and Carter stares down at her.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Nice blowing. When's your next
birthday, I'll be the cake.
TEXAN
Hey, buddy, watch yourself.
CARTER
Don't threaten me. I got friends in
this town that will bite off your ears.
Just sit tight, because I've got the
dice and I am on fire!
Carter throws the dice.
CRAPS DEALER
Winner, seven!
The table erupts as Carter grabs the dice.
CARTER
Let it ride!
INT. UPSTAIRS HALLWAY - NIGHT
The elevator doors OPEN and Lee is led toward the eye in the
sky room by Hu Li and the three Triads. As they walk into
the room, the Triads remain outside guarding the room.
INT. EYE IN THE SKY ROOM - CONTINUOUS
FORTY VIDEO MONITORS show every inch of the hotel. A MAN
stands in front of the two-way mirror looking down at the
casino, the reflection off the glass obscuring his features.
Lee has the tape around his mouth and his hands tied behind
his back as he's led into the room by Hu Li.
RICKY TAN
Imagine a business where people hand you
money. And you hand them back
absolutely nothing.
Ricky Tan - alive and well, turns around and stares at Lee.
Isabella is standing next to him. Lee is shocked at the
sight of Ricky Tan alive.
RICKY TAN (CONT'D)
Now that's a true American dream.
Thanks to a few pieces of metal and a
very greed driven US Customs agent.
Ricky Tan walks toward Lee, starts to smile.
RICKY TAN (CONT'D)
Look at you, you're ridiculous. You
know it didn't have to be like this.
But it's too bad! Like father, like
son.
Lee stares at Isabella for a BEAT. Hu Li motions to one of
the monitors.
HU LI
(in Chinese)
He's going for the plates.
Ricky Tan looks at one of the MONITORS, sees Steven Reign
walking down a hallway, about to walk into the PENTHOUSE
SUITE.
RICKY TAN
Look at this old fool, what does he
think he's doing?
Ricky Tan shifts his attention back to Lee.
RICKY TAN (CONT'D)
It's almost impossible to find a partner
that's trustworthy and loyal. Wouldn't
you agree, Lee?
ON ANOTHER SCREEN
We see Carter at the craps table having the time of his life.
Ricky Tan turns to walk out of the room, motioning to
Isabella as he goes.
RICKY TAN (CONT'D)
Well, at least you will die with honor.
But choy Gien.
SUBTITLES: "Won't see you again."
INT. CASINO - CONTINUOUS
Carter has two racks of chips in front of him, a huge crowd
surrounding him.
CRAPS DEALER
Winner! Four, winner!
CARTER
I'm up a hundred and fifty-grand.
That's a Ferrari. Do they sell those
here in the gift shop? Somebody cash me
out!
Several TRIAD SOLDIERS dressed like SECURITY GUARDS approach
Carter's table.
PIT BOSS
Sir, we'd like to escort you to the
cashier.
CARTER
That would be great. Don't want any of
these rich white people to jump me.
As they walk toward the door marked "VIP ROOM", Carter
glances at the MEN, knows he's in deep shit.
INT. EYE IN THE SKY ROOM - NIGHT
Ricky Tan turns to Hu Li.
RICKY TAN
Chai Hu Li.
("Little Fox")
Have fun.
Ricky Tan walks out. Hu Li holds the detonator up to Lee,
plays with the button.
HU LI
(in Chinese)
In a few minutes...you'll beg me to push
this button.
Hu Li pulls her KNIFE, moves towards Lee. She holds the
blade to his face. About to cut him. When Isabella pulls
her gun.
Isabella walks toward Lee, whose hands are still tied behind
his back. Hu Li clutches the detonator in one hand, her
knife in the other. She takes a step toward Isabella.
ISABELLA
It's time to end this, Inspector.
Isabella cocks the gun, spins back and kicks the detonator
from Hu Li's hand -- slamming her against the wall and
sticking the gun under her chin.
ISABELLA (CONT'D)
Don't move! United States Secret
Service.
Hu Li WHIPS her KNIFE around, catches Isabella across the
hand -- the GUN SLIDING across the room near the detonator --
the TWO WOMEN fight around it.
Lee watches them almost step on it - dives to the floor and
rolls toward the detonator. He's about to grab it when:
THE TRIADS OPEN THE DOOR
They're about to move in.
HU LI
Get the detonator!
The Triads go for the detonator -- as Lee gets to his feet,
KICKS Hu Li's legs out from under her.
One of the Triads about to pick up the detonator - but Lee
gets to him first. He fights with one hand tied behind his
back.
Hu Li and Isabella fight it out in the EYE IN THE SKY ROOM.
Lee gets kicked towards the Eye In The Sky WINDOW.
INT. CASINO - CASHIER
Two security guards lead Carter away from the table when:
CRASH!
An AIRBORNE Lee rockets through the EYE IN THE SKY WINDOW.
In a rain of glass, he lands HARD on the casino floor.
The NOISE grabs everyone's attention, including:
CARTER
Lee!!
The guards restrain him.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Lemme ask you something. Any of you
ever felt $500,000 before?
He SLAMS THE RACK OF CHIPS ACROSS THEIR FACES -- chips flying
as the GUARDS hit the floor.
CARTER (CONT'D)
Doesn't feel so good, does it?
INT. EYE IN THE SKY ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Hu Li picks up the detonator. WHACK! A heeled foot kicks it
from her grasp. Isabella has recovered! The detonator FLIES
OUT THE BROKEN WINDOW.
INT. CASINO - CONTINUOUS
On his back, Lee watches the detonator SAIL OVER HIS HEAD AND
DISAPPEAR into the crowd. It lands on a DRINK CART. Before
Lee can get there, a WAITRESS changes trays and carries the
detonator on her rounds.
Panicked, Lee searches for the detonator. He JUMPS atop a
BLACKJACK TABLE to get a better vantage. He can't see it,
but he does see:
ACROSS THE CASINO
Carter on top of a CRAPS TABLE, keeping security guards at
bay with a croupier stick.
CARTER
Black man gets on a hot streak and
you're all trippin'?
Carter and Lee see each other. They have the same
simultaneous though:
CARTER (CONT'D)
(help!)
Lee!
LEE
(help!)
MMMMMM!!!!
Carter is Lee's only hope to get the bomb out of his mouth.
But from here to there, a MASS OF PEOPLE. The quickest way
is the HIGH WAY.
Lee leaps from TABLE to TABLE. Scattering playing cards.
Reaching the carpeted divide...Lee doesn't stop.
He launches off the bent-over back of a high roller --
landing on a RICKSHAW, SURFING IT to the tables on the other
side.
Carter looks around for Lee, catches a glimpse of the Eye in
the Sky Room. He grins.
CARTER
Check it out. Catfight!
POW! He socks a GUARD in the face.
INT. EYE IN THE SKY ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Isabella and Hu Li are locked in battle. Rolling to the
floor, they both see the gun. They scramble over each other
to get to it first.
INT. CASINO - CONTINUOUS
A security guard CLIMBS on the table to level Carter when Lee
arrives. He kicks the guard off and turns to Carter, his
plea MUFFLED.
CARTER
What the HELL are you doing with tape on
your face?
No time to explain -- two more security guards arrive. Kicks
and punches fly, but Lee CAN'T GET HIT IN THE MOUTH! He bobs
and weaves, holding his hands to Carter to untie them in
between swings. Suddenly:
BLAM! BLAM! BLAM! GUNSHOTS from the Eye In The Sky Room.
Everyone HITS THE DECK. Carter and Lee dive on to the floor
as panic ripples through the Casino. People FLEE for the
EXITS.
THE WAITRESS DESERTS HER TRAY. It gets knocked over and TIPS
on the floor. The DETONATOR LANDS feet away from Carter.
CARTER (CONT'D)
This can't be good.
Lee's eyes BUG - he sees it too, feet STAMPEDING past it! A
high heel misses it by a fraction of an inch. He LUNGES for
it, manages to CRADLE it in his taped hands when --
WHAM! He is BUMPED and it FLIES AWAY. The second it hits
the floor, it is KICKED, skittering down the red carpet.
ABOVE...the victor emerges in the Eye in the Sky Room. Hu Li
STEPS OUT on the PAGODA ROOF and JUMPS DOWN.
The DETONATOR ROLLS right past Hu Li. As she bends to PICK
up the detonator, Lee knows he won't get there in time.
Horrified, he SCREAMS at CARTER through the tape.
Hu Li lifts the detonator.
Carter finally pulls the TAPE OFF Lee's face.
Lee SPITS the grenade into the air.
LEE
(diving on Carter)
Bomb!!!
Hu Li HITS the TRIGGER just as it lands on a roulette table.
KABOOM!
The table is BLOWN OFF IT'S FOUNDATION. Chips and cash
volcano. Hu Li is blown backwards by the force of the blast.
SHEER PANDEMONIUM grips the casino.
AS THE SMOKE CLEARS
Carter and Lee peer out from behind a row of slot machines.
The place is deserted.
CARTER
Why didn't you tell me you had a bomb in
your mouth?
LEE
I did!
CARTER
No you didn't!
LEE
Yes I did. I said MMMMMM!
A hand on Carter's arm. THIS IS SERIOUS.
LEE (CONT'D)
Ricky Tan is alive.
CARTER
What?!?!
LEE
We have to get to the Penthouse.
Lee jumps up, SPRINTS toward the elevators at the dragon end
of the casino.
CARTER
Hold on!
Carter stuffs his pockets with chips, then races after Lee.
But halfway up the carpet. Carter stops. Lee turns to see
what is holding him up.
Hu Li SURVIVED the blast and Carter has turned to face her.
CARTER (CONT'D)
You go after Ricky. I got this.
LEE
Carter...
CARTER
Just GO!
Lee turns and runs off past the dragon. Unfortunately, FIVE
TRIADS block his path. In a flurry of PUNCHES, Lee makes
short work of them, and races toward the elevators.
DEAD CENTER ON THE RED CARPET - HU LI AND CARTER FACE OFF!
Each readying in their own manner. Hu Li carefully wraps her
long hair into a bun on top of her head. Carter stretches,
flexes, ready to sting like a bee.
CARTER (CONT'D)
I'm not gonna hold you back this time
just because you're a woman. I'm gonna
pretend you're a man.
She pulls off her jacket, prepares to fight him in her
undershirt.
CARTER (CONT'D)
A very beautiful man with a perfect body
who I'd like to take to the movies.
She takes a sword from a Terra Cotta statue, SWINGS IT AROUND
like a master.
CARTER (CONT'D)
I may have been absent the day we went
over this in karate class.
Quick, Carter reaches for a fighting stick off a Terra Cotta
soldier. WHOOSH! She SLICES IT IN HALF. Carter reaches for
another. SLICE! She's toying with him.
INT. ELEVATOR BANK - NIGHT
Lee's in the elevator as the doors close. SUDDENLY, a HAND
cuts through, parting the doors.
It's ISABELLA! A wound on her shoulder.
LEE
Are you okay?
ISABELLA
I'm fine.
She steps in, too weak and starts to fall. Lee grabs her and
holds her in his arms. HE gently helps her down.
LEE
I didn't know which side you were on.
ISABELLA
Now you know.
DING! The elevator doors open. Isabella holds up a ROOM KEY
- the key to the SUITE. Lee takes the key, backs away and
steps into the elevator.
ISABELLA (CONT'D)
I'll try to get backup. Be careful.
The elevator doors close.
INT. PENTHOUSE SUITE - CONTINUOUS
Steven Reign is closing the safe. There are stacks of
HUNDRED DOLLAR BILLS on his desk, which he's putting in a
black bag along with the plates. As he turns around, he
comes face-to-face with Ricky Tan.
RICKY TAN
American's love to gamble. Don't they,
Mr. Reign?
STEVEN REIGN
I'm cutting our deal short. I'm
leaving.
RICKY TAN
And my plates?
STEVEN REIGN
They stay with me. I'm sure you won't
have a problem with that.
Reign shows Tan the gun in his belt. Grabs the bag and
starts to walk toward the door.
RICKY TAN
I enjoyed that little story you told
about the Dragon and the treasure. My
mother used to tell it to me all the
time. Do you know the moral of that
story, Mr. Reign?
STEVEN REIGN
Greed will imprison us all.
Tan grabs Reign from behind and stabs him with a knife.
RICKY TAN
I hate that fortune cookie shit.
Lee BURSTS through the suite door - watches as Reign falls
dead to the floor. Ricky takes the black bag off the desk.
LEE
Put the plates down.
Ricky Tan looks down at the gun in Reign's belt.
INT. CASINO - NIGHT
WHOOSH! Another Terra Cotta fighting stick is in half in
Carter's hands.
CARTER
Will you STOP?!?!
(picks up cocktail umbrella)
What am I supposed to fight you with?
No more toying. Hu Li CHARGES Carter, who GRABS a ROULETTE
WHEEL as a MAKESHIFT SHIELD. She SLICES it in HALF! He's
got nowhere to hide.
She JABS him with the sword. Carter SCREAMS. Falls back
against the table, clutching his chest. Hu Li WINDMILLS,
kicking a Terra Cotta soldier on top of Carter, but --
THWACK!
The DOUBLE-BLADED BAMBOO POLE in its hand ricochets back and
she is PIERCED THROUGH THE SHOULDER with the blade. Staring
at Carter in stunned disbelief, she drops to her knees.
Carter walks toward her, considers his options, then KICKS
HER IN THE HEAD, knocking her out.
CARTER (CONT'D)
When are you people gonna learn? Don't
mess with the brothas!
WEAK in the KNEES, Carter looks to the SOUND ON HIS CHEST. He
reaches through the slice in his jacket. Instead of a hand
covered in blood, it comes out with a THICK WAD OF CASH!
CARTER (CONT'D)
Thank you, Benjamin!
Carter runs for the elevator.
INT. PENTHOUSE SUITE - CONTINUOUS
Lee is walking toward Ricky Tan, the two men circling Reign's
body.
RICKY TAN
You're just like your father, Lee. All
these years hiding behind his badge. I
wanted to help him, to share with him,
but he was too afraid of change. When
you think about it, I didn't really kill
him. I just put him out of his misery.
LEE
Put the plates down. It's over.
RICKY TAN
I don't think it's over. There are
casinos all over this country. Let me
make you a rich man, Lee. Don't make
the same mistake he did.
Ricky glances at the gun in Reign's belt.
LEE
If you reach for that gun, I'm going to
kill you.
RICKY TAN
Don't you remember? I'm already dead.
Ricky makes a play for the gun, but Lee is much too fast,
taking the gun and pushing Ricky against the wall just as
Carter bursts in the room.
CARTER
Hey, Ricky, how's it going man? What's
up, Lee?
Lee has the gun pressed to Tan's head. We've never seen him
like this before.
RICKY TAN
Would you like me to tell you how your
father died?
CARTER
Lee, you okay?
Lee doesn't respond. He keeps an eye on Ricky.
RICKY TAN
He never begged for his life. Or tried
to make a deal. All that he asked me,
just seconds before I pulled the
trigger, was that I promise not to kill
you.
Lee's finger is on the trigger -- he wants to pull the
trigger but can't.
CARTER
Lee, wait a second. It's not worth it,
man. He's making you do this.
LEE
It's worth it to me.
RICKY TAN
Do you have it in you, Lee? Or are you
gonna spend the rest of your life hiding
like your father?
CARTER
C'mon, Lee. He's going to jail. You
won, now just put the gun down.
Lee is trying to pull the trigger, but he can't.
RICKY TAN
That's what I thought.
Tan takes the black bag and swings it toward Lee -- the
plates hit him across the face and knock him down.
THE GUN IS LOOSE
Tan reaches for it and is about to pull the trigger when:
Lee and Carter come flying at him TOGETHER. Both KICKING HIM
SQUARE IN THE CHEST.
Tan falls back, SMASHING THROUGH THE WINDOW. Lee tries to
grab Tan's hand, their fingers touch for a split second.
But Tan pulls his hand away and falls 20 STORIES to the
street below.
EXT. STREET - NIGHT
A TAXI is parked out front. Tan's BODY SLAMS on the roof.
SMASHING THROUGH A SIGN ON TOP THAT READS: "EVERYBODY'S A
WINNER!"
INT. PENTHOUSE SUITE - NIGHT
Lee and Carter are looking down at the street, both relieved
it's finally over. Carter puts his hand on Lee's shoulder.
CARTER
I don't know about you, but I need a
wine cooler.
As they turn to the door -- Hu Li is walking toward them,
bleeding and half-dead. She has ANOTHER BOMB IN HER HAND.
This one twice the size of the one from earlier.
HU LI
(in Chinese)
We'll go together, Inspector.
CARTER
Please tell me she just asked for a ride
to the airport.
Hu Li hits the switch - starts to smile. Lee and Carter turn
and RUN for the OPEN WINDOW.
EXT. BUILDING - NIGHT
Lee and Carter DIVE OUT THE WINDOW, grab a cable just as the
PENTHOUSE BLOWS!
The FIREBALL SHOOTS out as they start to slide down the side
of the hotel.
THEY SCREAM AS THE CABLE BREAKS.
Lee and Carter SWING toward a HUGE "GRAND OPENING" BANNER.
They flip under it, do a loop before they SLAM AGAINST THE
SIGN.
It's KNOCKED LOOSE and they fall with it toward VEGAS BLVD.
Lee and Carter hang on as they drop to the street. A HUGE
TRUCK speeds toward them as they hold on for their lives.
The entire STRIP SPEEDING toward them.
LEE
I can't believe I flew ten-thousand
miles for this shit!!
They lift their feet just as the TRUCK PASSES. The sign dips
and they fall straight down into the open sunroof of a LARGE
STRETCH LIMO.
INT. LIMOUSINE - CONTINUOUS
Lee and Carter land in the back. Slam into their seats and
try to catch their breath. The TWO MEN STARTING TO LAUGH
when they realize they're alive!
CARTER
We made it, man.
LEE
No problem.
Lee and Carter look up to see the VERSACE SALESMAN and FOUR
OF HIS FRIENDS sitting in the back of the limo staring at
them. The BOYS are all drinking champagne and dressed for a
night on the town.
VERSACE SALESMAN
Well, there is a God after all.
Lee and Carter exchange looks as the limo stops in front of
the hotel.
LIMO DRIVER
Here we are. The Red Dragon hotel.
In front of the hotel WE SEE FIRE TRUCKS, AMBULANCE, POLICE
CARS and Isabella and Sterling arresting TWENTY TRIADS.
VERSACE SALESMAN
We're all going gambling and then to see
Siegried and Roy. I hope you two are
feeling lucky!
INT. LAS VEGAS AIRPORT - NIGHT
Lee is talking with a bandaged Isabella, who is standing with
Sterling and several other SECRET SERVICE AGENTS. Lee and
Isabella hug goodbye. As she walks off to board her plane,
Lee slowly walks back to Carter who is smiling.
CARTER
I saw that. She kissed you, didn't she?
You played it cool, though. Walking
away, never looking back.
LEE
She's going home to New York. I need
some ice.
Lee and Carter watch as she gets on the plane.
CARTER
That your gate down there?
LEE
Yes.
CARTER
I'm this way. I guess this is goodbye.
LEE
I guess so. Thank you, Carter.
CARTER
You take care of yourself, Lee.
Carter steps back, BOWS TO LEE. Lee SHAKES CARTER'S HAND
like a brother. The two men smile. Turn to walk away.
LEE
Carter, wait. There's something I want
you to have.
Lee pulls a BADGE from his pocket. Hands it to Carter.
CARTER
Your father's badge? No way, man. I
can't take this.
LEE
It's okay. I can finally let it go.
Carter takes the badge. Smiles.
CARTER
In that case, I got something for you.
I picked it up at the hotel.
Carter pulls out a WAD OF CASH.
LEE
What is this?
CARTER
About fifty grand. I won it at the
tables.
LEE
No, Carter. I can't take this.
CARTER
It's okay, I got lots more.
Carter pulls out another wad of cash.
CARTER (CONT'D)
They owe us, man. That's the least they
can do.
LEE
This money is evidence.
CARTER
Come on, Lee. Stop being a cop for five
minutes and live it up. There must be
something you want.
Lee looks back toward Isabella.
LEE
I always wanted to go to Madison Square
Garden. See the Knicks play.
CARTER
New York City?
LEE
First class.
CARTER
The Plaza Hotel?
LEE
A little Mu-shu.
CARTER
Some Kung-Pao?
They look at each other, smile.
CARTER (CONT'D)
I could use a little vacation.
LEE
Amen to that, brother.
As Lee and Carter start to walk away together, the MUSIC
SWELLS. "WAR" starts to PLAY. They dance their way through
a crowd of people, their arms raised as the two friends make
their way through the airport.
END CREDITS
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