eat. sleep. repeat. -- a screenplay

8/14/2019 Eat. Sleep. Repeat. -- A Screenplay

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EXT. CITY PARK- morning

The scene opens in a city park. Many people are running around, playing with theirdogs or kids. The camera pans around the park until we get to a bench. The camerazooms in on a figure lying on the bench, a newspaper is seen to be covering hisface. Two joggers slow down as they run past.

jogger 1

(whispering)

You think he's dead?

jogger 2

(whispering)

Who cares? Let's get out of here.

JOGGER 1

(whispering)

Just wait a sec...

She proceeds to walk closer to the figure on the bench when the figure suddenlysits straight up, sending the jogger jumping back and screaming. STEVE, midtwenties, pushes the newspaper off of his head and looks around

steve

(looking around)

Is it morning? I went to bed at night, so this must be the morning.

(takes a drink from a beer bottle in his hand)

Helooooooo Morning!

Steve is apparently drunk, and when he tries to get up off the bench he falls backdown. This is when he notices the two joggers.

STEVE

Oh, hello ladies

JOGGER 1

(scoffs)

It's just some lousy drunk.

(motioning to her friend)

Come on.

The two joggers run off, leaving Steve all alone.It is a feeling he has felt many



times before.

STEVE

This world be cruel to those with a hobby for drinking.

Steve takes another drink form his bottle and lays back down on the bench, fallingasleep.

int. apartment building- afternoon

The scene opens with Steve lying on his couch, fast asleep. Random bags of chipsand bags of cookies lay scattered on the floor. The door to the apartment opens,and a man, JOE, mid twenties, walks through.

joe

Hey, lazy ass! Get up!

He kicks the couch and bags of chips scatter onto the floor. No response fromSteve. Joe does it again.

JOE

Get up NOW! Do you want to miss your interview?

This time a response. A mumble, maybe a "one more minute", comes from Steve and hestirs a little on the couch. Joe seems to have had enough, and this time pulls thecovers off of Steve, making him fall onto the ground.

STEVE

I was getting up.

INT. APARTMENT BUILDING kitchen- AFTERNOON

Joe and Steve sit around the table. Steve is sitting at one end eating a bowl ofcereal, and Joe at the the other end, going through Steve's resume.

JOE

It says here that you wrestled a badger in a steel cage for a children's hospitalcharity.

STEVE

(mouth full)

Uh-huh

JOE

You never did that.

STEVE

Yeah, but I thought adding that would add some flavor to it. You know, make it alittle more interesting.



JOE

(staring in disbelief)

No. What I do know is that you're an idiot.

STEVE

(mumbling under breath)

What do you know

JOE

WHAT?!

STEVE

Nothing.

JOE

Eat you're damn cereal.

int. happy burgers fast food restaurant- afternoon

Several cars whiz by the fast food chain, and several cars are seen parked in thelot. The scene goes inside where Steve is seated, listening intently.

manager

We here at Happy Burgers take pride in the fast food industry. If a customerdoesn't like their order, they expect and will receive a full refund.

STEVE

Isn't that kinda stupid? You know if people know this, they're just gonna say theyhated their food and get their money back. They'll make off with a free meal. Yousee what I mean?

MANAGER

(staring blank eyed straight forward)

We here at Happy Burgers take pride in the fast food industry. If a customerdoesn't like their order, they expect and will receive a full refund.

STEVE

(taking a deep breath)

I had a feeling you were gonna say that.

ext. HAPPY BURGERS FAST FOOD RESTAURANT parking lot- AFTERNOON

STEVE



I really thought that would have went better.

JOE

Oh yeah. Who could resist hiring a college dropout who fought a badger for thesake of young children. What is this world coming to!

STEVE

You know, I could really go without you're sarcasm right now. I'm starting to geta little annoyed with this stupid job search. Can't I just sit at home and donothing while you bring home the bacon?

JOE

Oh, no. We agreed we would both get jobs and pay half of each months bills. Weain't going back on that now.

Joe and Steve reach their car and get inside. It would be a long, quiet ride home.

int. apartment building bedroom- morning

Steve is shown lying in his bed, on foot hanging off of the edge. Cans of beer layscattered on the floor next to his bed with his hand dangling near them. Joeenters the room, looks down at Steve, shakes his head, and enters the bathroomlocated in the room.

INT. APARTMENT BUILDING kitchen- AFTERNOON

Joe and Steve sit around the table, just like the previous morning. Steve iseating a bowl of cereal and Joe sits opposite of him, drinking a cup of coffee andreading the newspaper.

STEVE

How the Phillies holding up?

JOE

Eh, they're hanging in there.

STEVE

That's good, that's good. Hey listen, you wanna read my resume. I cleaned it up alittle.

JOE

(not looking up from his paper and laughing a little)

Oh, yeah. What's it say this time? How you fended off an alien invasion with atoothpick and razorblade?

STEVE

I'm serious man! I'm getting fed up with this too!

JOE



I'll believe it when I see it.

STEVE

Why won't you listen to what I'm saying! I'm seri...

JOE

I'll give you till the end of the week. No job, no more apartment.

Joe puts down the paper he was reading and walks off into his bedroom, leavingSteve alone once again.

INT. APARTMENT BUILDING BEDROOM- early MORNING

An alarm goes off in a pitch black room, reading 6:00 a.m., and a hand is seenshutting it off. A light turns on and Steve becomes visible, sitting on the bed.He begins to get dressed.

ext. city street- early morning

Steve emerges from the apartment building with a serious look on his face. He getsinto his car and drives off.

INT. APARTMENT BUILDING BEDROOM- MORNING

Another alarm goes off, and Joe's hand is seen reaching to shut it off. He getsout of his bed and walks towards the kitchen. He walks past Steve's room paying noattention. He doubles back and looks inside to see he is not there.

JOE

Steve?

No response. He walks over to the table and sees a note on it, addressed to him.He opens it and reads aloud,

JOE

Joe,

I went out to find that job we were talking about. Won't be home till I find one.Unless a cougar attacks. Then I'll be straight home. We both know I specialize inbadger self defense, not cougar.

-Steve

A smile creeps across Joe's face and he puts the letter back sown on the table. Itwas going to be a good day.

int. must buy electronics store- afternoon

Steve walks into the local Must Buy electronic store, with a determined look onhis face. He approaches the customer service desk. Behind it is an average femaleteenage punk, chewing gum and reading a magazine, not a care in the world.

STEVE



Hi, I would like to talk to a manager about a possible open position.

customer service rep

He's out on lunch. You'll have to wait until 1 when he gets back.

Steve looked at his watch. It was 11:50 a.m.

STEVE

It's not even noon time and he's taking an hour lunch.

(raising his voice)

What kind of place is this!

Random customers in the store stop their previous business and look towards Steve.

CUSTOMER SERVICE REP

Sir, that's probably not the best first impression to give if you want a job here.

STEVE

(settling down)

Right. So you said one?

INT. HAPPY BURGERS FAST FOOD RESTAURANT- AFTERNOON

JOE

There you go ma'am. Have a nice day.

MANAGER

Joe, may I speak to you for a moment?

INT. HAPPY BURGERS FAST FOOD RESTAURANT office- AFTERNOON

Joe walks into the managers office. There are several office chairs and manyposters on the wall of the restaurant.

MANAGER

Joe, as you know we here at Happy Burgers take pride in the...

JOE

...fast food industry. If a customer doesn't like their order, they expect andwill receive a full refund, I know. I've been here since the restaurant opened.What's all this about.

MANAGER

Well, son, district is making me cut a couple of our employees, and well seeing ashow you have a college degree and all, I'm gonna have to let you go. You can do so



much better.

JOE

But, I told you, I like working here. It's fun for me. I don't wanna go sit behinda desk all day and sell paper! This is what I wanna do!

MANAGER

Son, please. What's done is done. I'm sorry. You can go clean your uniform andreturn it later. Why don't you just go home. Hell, I'll even give you this weekspay check 'cause I love ya.

Joe stands up from his chair, nods at the manager, and turns and walks out thedoor.

EXT. HAPPY BURGERS FAST FOOD RESTAURANT PARKING LOT- AFTERNOON

Joe continues walking, with a dazed look on his face. He reaches his car, samelook on his face, and rives home once again. This time without a job.

INT. MUST BUY ELECTRONICS STORE- AFTERNOON

The title "MEANWHILE..." appears on the screen and the scene changes back to theMust Buy electronic store. Steve is shown sitting in a chair, fast asleep, infront of the display of big screen T.V.s. The manager, PAUL, early forties, walksinto the store and over to the customer service desk.

Paul

Any urgent calls while I was gone?

CUSTOMER SERVICE REP

No calls, just a strange man. He came in about an hour ago and was looking foryou. Said something about a job. He's right over there, in the T.V.s if you wannasee him.

paul

All right, thanks.

The manager turns and begins to walk towards Steve and his resting location. Themanager lightly taps on his shoulder, to which Steve jumps awake shouting,

STEVE

I NEVER FOUGHT A BADGER FOR A CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL!!

Once again, everyone in the store is looking at him, even the manager.

STEVE

Oh, sorry.

PAUL

Are you the one that wanted a job?



STEVE

Uh, yeah. Why? Did I get the job!

PAUL

(chuckling)

No, not yet. But why don't we step into my office to discuss it.

INT. MUST BUY ELECTRONICS STORE manager's office- AFTERNOON

Steve enters Paul's office with Paul following.

PAUL

(motioning to an empty chair)

Have a seat. Do you want something to drink?

STEVE

(as he is sitting down, shaking his head)

No, I'm fine thanks.

PAUL

All right, let's get this started. First question, what is my name?

Steve squints as he tries to read the distant name tag worn by Paul.

STEVE

P...Puul?

PAUL

(questioned look on his face)

What?

(looking down at his name tag and chuckling)

Oh, no. That's an "A"

STEVE

Oh, Paul.

PAUL

Yeah, most people get that one their first shot.

STEVE

Yeah well, what can I say. I did have a beer while I was waiting for you.



PAUL

We don't allow the consumption of alcohol in our store.

STEVE

Oh, no. Don't worry. I was drinking outside. Same time I was lighting paper bags

on fire.

Paul is just staring at Steve with a look of disbelief on his face.

STEVE

(shrugging)

You were gone a long time.

PAUL

All right, moving on. Why do you think you deserve this job?

STEVE

Honestly, it's just a last ditch effort to get a job. No one else would hire me.

PAUl

Look, do you want this job or not? Cause I got a ton of guys standing outsidejust waiting for you to screw up so they get their shot at it.

STEVE

I didn't see anyone outside.

PAUL

That's because you're in here making an ass out of yourself.

(looking over Steve's shoulder)

But you're right. No one is out there. But just imagine if there was. Cause I gotfriends. Tons of em. No matter what Anyone says. ANYONE!

Paul begins hyperventilating and starts to lean over on his desk.

STEVE

Hey, are you okay? You need a paper bag or something?

At this point, Paul obviously cannot breathe. He begins pointing at a bag sittingon a chair, motioning for Steve to get it.

STEVE

What? You need this bag?

Paul nods very quickly and violently, in dire need of the bag. Steve walks over



How? You don't even work there.

STEVE

Uh, yeah I do. Weren't you listening when I walked in. I said I got a job. Andthat's where it is.

JOE

Oh, right. So can you really get me a job?

STEVE

I could try. After all, I did save the manger's life.

JOE

(questioned look on his face)

What?

STEVE

Long story, I'll explain later. I start work on Saturday, so I'll try then.

Steve walks off into one of the bedrooms, leaving Joe alone in the living room.Joe quickly falls back asleep.

INT. MUST BUY ELECTRONICS STORE- Saturday morning

Steve and Joe enter the Must Buy one the first day of Steve's employment career.

STEVE

Follow me.

The two walk towards the manager's office. Steve knocks on the door.

PAUL

What?

STEVE

It's me. Steve.

PAUL

Oh! Come on in.

Steve opens the door and leads Joe through.

PAUL

Excited about your first day?

STEVE



Yes sir.

PAUL

(looking back at Joe)

Who's that?

STEVE

Oh. This is my roommate, Joe. He was wondering if he might be able to get a jobhere.

PAUL

(to Joe)

You gonna try and kill me then save my life like your friend did?

JOE

Wasn't planning on it.

PAUL

(sigh of relief)

Whew. Thank god. But sorry kid. No spots open.

JOE

(disappointed)

Oh.

PAUL

But, I'll tell you what. Give it a couple of weeks. I'm looking to fire these twomorons on night shift, just waiting for them to screw up. Once they're gone, yougot a job. Deal?

JOE

Yeah, sure. Sounds good.

STEVE

Thanks Paul. See ya around.

Steve and Joe walk out of Paul's office, leaving him there all alone.

Outside, Steve walks Joe to the doors of the Must Buy.

STEVE

Gotta go clock in, this is as far as I walk.



JOE

That's fine.

STEVE

So, what are ya gonna do all day with no job?

JOE

I donna know. Eat. Sleep. Eat some more. Sleep some more. Like the good old days.

STEVE

All right. But, listen. You heard Paul. Couple of weeks and you'll have a job.Just gotta be patient.

JOE

I know. It's just that since I started working, I've never been out of a job.Aside from college when even then I would work a little. But school kept me busy.

I guess I'll live. It'll just be weird.

STEVE

Ah, go home and get some rest. But don't spend all day watching QVC and buyingshit to take up space. I've seen it happen.

JOE

I'll take your word for it. See ya.

STEVE

Later.

Joe turns and walks out the door, leaving Steve alone. Steve turns around andwalks back towards his new life.


After clocking in for work, Steve emerges from the back with his new storeuniform, ready for work. Looking nervously around and unsure of really what to do,Steve approaches another employee.

STEVE

Excuse me?

The employee turns around.

STEVE

Yeah, hi. I'm new here, and I don't really know what to do...

Steve leans in and squints as he tries to read the employees name tag.

STEVE



...Jessica.

jessica

Listen, it's really not that hard. Just walk around and see if any customer needshelp finding anything. Our number one priority is to sell shit.

STEVE

Sell shit. Got it. Thank you.

Steve walks away with a new sense of confidence. He approaches an OLD LADY, earlyseventies, looking at CDs.

STEVE

Excuse me miss, but do you need help?

old lady

Noo... I'll be fine....

STEVE

All right. But if you need any help, I'll be around.

OLD LADY

Well, actually there is something...

STEVE

Oh? What's that?

OLD LADY

Oh, never mind I found it.

STEVE

Oh, okay.

OLD LADY

Oh, that's not it... Young man! Young man! I do need help!

The old lady said this loud enough for everyone in that area of the store to turnand look. Most of Steve's confidence has just left the building.

STEVE

Okay, but there is no need to shout. I'm standing right here.

OLD LADY

Oh, I'm sorry. You see it's my medication. Which reminds me, I need to fill myprescription. I should go do that.



The old lady begins to walk away, leaving Steve all alone.

STEVE

Hey lady! Wait! Don't leave yet! I need to sell this shit!

By now, everyone in the store is looking at Steve, even the old lady turned around

to see the commotion. Embarrassed once again, Steve has no lost all hisconfidence. At that moment, Jessica walks past.

JESSICA

Nice job selling the shit Ace.

INT. MUST BUY ELECTRONICS STORE MANAGER'S OFFICE- AFTERNOON

Steve is shown sitting in an office chair facing Paul.

PAUL

Listen Paul, you're a good kid. Just trying to find you're place in the world. I'mgonna cut you some slack. You really can't be yelling like that in the store. Itscares customers off. And if you scare customers off, we can't sell our shit.

Steve immediately looks up and stares at Paul.

STEVE

Does everyone here say that?

PAUL

What? Sell our shit?

STEVE

Yeah.

PAUL

Yeah. It's sorta our motto. I wanted to put it up on the front of the store, butsome people had problems with hat idea. Said it was too vulgar.

STEVE

I could see where they would get that.

PAUL

Yeah, whatever I fired their asses.

STEVE

You're not gonna fire me, are you?

PAUL



Fire you? Hell no! I'm just gonna move you to back dock duties, you know unloadingand stocking. That is until you get comfortable with the system.

STEVE

Oh, you scared me.

PAUL

Yeah, I do that. Actually that's why we stopped going to the retirement home. Yousee we used to go that old folks home down the road to help out a little, raisesome awareness. Turns out my demeanor was scaring some of them into panic fits,not good stuff. They even blamed me for killing old Mr. Overton, by I swear toyou, he was already dead. Dude sat there with no expression on his face. I used topoke him with forks and nothing happened. Ah, guess you had to be there.

STEVE

Guess so.

PAUL

Well look. I'll let you get back to work. Just head out to the back dock. Mikewill show you what to do.

Steve gets up to leave.

STEVE

All right. Thank you sir. Nice story by the way.

Steve exits the office, leaving Paul alone once again.

PAUL

What a kiss ass. But I love 'em.

INT. MUST BUY ELECTRONICS STORE back dock- AFTERNOON

Steve walks through a door where he is greeted with a blast of cold air anddarkness. The storage room is almost pitch black, although a few lights guide theway. The air conditioner is apparently on its highest setting, as the room feelslike an ice box. No one is in sight.

STEVE

Hello?

No response. Steve continues to walk through the room, looking for anyone.Suddenly, the lights turn on and the air is turned down.

MAN

Who's there?

STEVE

Uh, hi. I'm Steve. Paul told me to come back here. I'm looking for a Mike.



Suddenly, someone jumps out from the boxes stored next to Steve. This is Mike,late thirties, and this is his daily routine.

Mike

Well I'll be damned... Pleased to meet you. I'm Mike.

STEVE

Oh, hi. Yeah, uh, Paul sent me back here to help you guys out with whatever youdo.

Mike

We really don't do anything.

STEVE

What?

Mike

No, honest. We usually just hang out in the office until lunch break then come outto eat and head back in.

STEVE

Then who puts out this stuff into inventory?

Mike

We do.

STEVE

I thought you...

Mike

Oh, no man. I was just messing with ya. Paul would kill us if we did that.

(laughing)

Oh, man. I'm sorry, that was good stuff. But I'll give ya a break since you'renew. Come on, I'll introduce you to the guys.

Mike puts his arm around Steve's shoulder and leads him to the back loading dockwhere there are three other guys standing around.

Mike

Hey! What did I tell you guys about standing around like lazy sons of bitches!HUH!

worker #1

But we are lazy sons of bitches.



Mike

Doesn't mean you have to show it! Come on now, use your heads! Anyway, this is thenew guy, Steve.

Scattered mumbles are heard from the group, none to impressed to see him andobviously don't want to be there. Mike began pointing to the nameless figures in

the crowd.

Mike

(to a big, tough looking black man)

That's Randall. I wouldn't look him in the eyes.

(to a scrawny white man)

That's Jay, he is what you see.

(to a medium sized white man)

And that's my cousin, Aaron.

STEVE

What's up guys.

Steve generates no reply. The group is just looking at him with no expressionswhat so ever.

Mike

Wow, this is a first. What no hellos? You're are finally at a loss for words?

Still no response from the group.

Mike

Ahh, who needs ya? Come on Steve.

Mike leads Steve away from the group, who are still just standing there. Mikebegins to show Steve all of the ins and outs of life on the back dock.

Mike

Deliveries are usually at six. Right now it is three. That gives you three hours

to prepare.

(begins moving boxes around)

What I usually do is try to make a space where we can just lay the boxes once offof the truck. Then we'll move 'em around to make room to walk and those sort ofthings. Got it?

STEVE

Yeah, seems simple enough.



Mike

Good.

Mike begins to walk away.

STEVE

Hey, where you going?

Mike

Who, me? Oh, I never stick around. I'll be back at six, though, don't worry.

And through the doors Mike walked, to the outside world. Nevertheless, Stevebegins to move boxes in anticipation of the o'clock delivery. Steve looks up andover on the back dock where the silent group is looking at him.

STEVE

Uh, hey guys. How's it going?

randall

We don't like newbies.

STEVE

What's that?

aaron

newbies, people who are new at something. We don't like 'em. They come and take

our jobs.

STEVE

Oh, sorry guys, but I gotta pay the rent somehow.

jay

At least let us show the proper technique in moving the boxes.

STEVE

Oh, okay.

The group emerges from the shadows and walk over towards Steve to give him a hand.

RANDALL

First, you select the proper box. For you, a smaller box will do.

JAY

Then, you take it and toss it to the side.



AARON

Then, select another box and repeat the process.

STEVE

But isn't that a little careless. You know, you might break something.

RANDALL

HEY! Do you wanna keep your job or lose it? Cause I got no problem ratting you outfor something you didn't do. I know these guys got my back.

Both Aaron and Jay nod.

STEVE

Fine. We'll do it your way.

Steve begins going through the boxes and tossing them aside. This process is a lotfaster and somewhat fun for Steve.

STEVE

You know guys, this way isn't so bad.

RANDALL

I told ya. Sometimes you gotta just listen to us.

The sequence fades out and is replaced with a black screen with the title, "ThreeHours Later", on it.

Steve, Randall, Jay, and Aaron are sitting on several boxes looking out upon the

back dock. Smoke can be seen circling the group and little baggies litter thefloor. They are sharing several stories, pausing to let in a laugh. All four ofthem have joints in there hands, making the stories even more funnier than theyalready are.

RANDALL

My mom used to get dressed up and go out every Sunday night, leaving me and myolder brother home alone. And this wasn't any dress. She would wear the smallestdress I have ever seen and go out to where she met my father. Whenever I asked herwhy she did this, she'd always tell me, 'Boy, you know I'm still looking foryou're father.'

Randall stops talking and the whole group begins to laugh, unable to stop.

JAY

Yo Aaron, this is some good pot.

AARON

That's the only kind I got.

STEVE



(squinting)

Yo, isn't that the delivery truck?

AARON

Oh shit! Come on guys! We gotta get this cleaned up before Mike gets back!

Upon seeing the truck and hearing of Mike's return, the gang immediately jump upto lend a helping hand.

AARON

Just dump it all in the boxes!

STEVE

Won't someone be going through these and see it?

RANDALL

Kid, you gotta stop thinking so much! Just dump it!

Steve does as he is told and dumps what is left of the pot into the empty, nearbyboxes. When the place is clear of baggies and somewhat of smoke, the truck arriveson the back dock. The DRIVER, late forties, gets out of the truck with a clipboardfor them to sign the waiver.

driver

Yeah, hey guys. I got a delivery for here. Just gonna need a signature from thesupervisor to okay all this.

JAY

Oh, uh, he's not here right now. Went out to, uh, do some stuff. Cool if we sign?

DRIVER

That'll be a no go. Gonna need the supervisor.

Upon the driver finishing his sentence, Mike bursts through the doors, breathingheavily.

Mike

Sorry I'm late. Had to deal with a customer. Where do I sign?

DRIVER

(motioning to the clipboard)

Right here.

Mike quickly scribbles his initials into the box and hands the board back to thedriver. The driver walks over to the truck and opens the back, revealing a world



of must have electronics. The driver pulls out a section of boxes and lowers itonto the dock.

DRIVER

There you go, fresh new laptops.

Mike

Thanks. See ya later.

The driver waves goodbye and exits back into his truck. Randall and Jay go toretrieve the left behind boxes.

Mike

(motioning to an empty spot)

Just put 'em over there for now. I'll deal with them later. Why don't you guystake lunch now?

Mumbles of agreements are heard and Mike exits back into the store.

JAY

Hey, uh, Steve is it? Ya wanna come out to eat with us?

STEVE

(surprised)

Oh, I don't know. I was just gonna hang around here, ya know...

RANDALL

What? And not eat? Come on out. Our treat.

STEVE

(reluctant)

Oh, alright, what the hell?

INT. HAPPY BURGERS FAST FOOD RESTAURANT- Evening

Steve, Randall, Jay, and Aaron all walk into Happy Burgers, ready to eat. Theywalk up to the counter and get ready to order.

JAY

Hey, Steve. You know what you want? I'll order and you can grab us a table.

STEVE

Uh, yeah okay. I'll just have a number 4.

JAY



Sounds good.

Steve turns around and walks over to find a booth capable of holding the group.Eventually, Steve finds a booth that looks clean and big enough. He sits down andlooks up to see the food being brought over.

AARON

Here we go. Dig in.

Hands begin to fly in as everyone is anxious to eat. Everyone begins to eat,talking as they do.

RANDALL

So Steve. Where'd you work before coming here?

STEVE

Nowhere, actually.

JAY

No shit. You one of those slacker guys. Ya know, the one's that sit around allday?

STEVE

(laughing a little)

Yeah, I guess you could say that. Tried out the whole college thing, but thatdidn't really go too well.

RANDALL

What happened?

STEVE

(sighing)

I don't know. Too much of a hassle, too much stress. I thought sitting around inyour underwear all day would be more fun. And it was.

Slight laughter is heard from the table.

AARON

So why start now? Don't tell me you got bored.

STEVE

Honestly, it did get a little old. Just wanted something new, you know, experiencethe world.

RANDALL

Whoa man. Don't get all spiritual on our asses. We don't deal well with that.



STEVE

Point taken. Well, what about you guys? You been working at the Must Buy for awhile.

AARON

Since I was eighteen.

STEVE

(wide-eyed)

That long?

AARON

Yeah. My dad, actually, used to run the place. That's why Mike is assistantmanager. Dad made me work there to support myself 'cause he kicked me out ateighteen. All the better, though. Never would have met these guys.

JAY

Kiss ass.

RANDALL

Hey guys, lunch time's almost up. Mine as well finish up and get back to close up.Maybe we'll get out early.

JAY

Don't count on it.

INT. MUST BUY ELECTRONICS STORE BACK DOCK- evening

When Steve and the crew arrive back at the store after lunch, Mike is on the backdock waiting for them.

MIKE

You're all late.

RANDALL

(mocking tone)

Geez, sorry boss. Won't let it happen again.

JAY

Seriously, what're we five minutes late.

MIKE

Ten to be exact.



JAY

Oh, ten whole minutes. I'm surprised the store didn't crumble down in our absence.

MIKE

Hey Steve. Paul was telling me about your friend, the one who wanted a job. Tellhim he's got one. Jay you're fired, Randall you're on strike two. Steve and Aaron,

don't let it happen again. You're all dismissed. Clock out.

Mike turns and walks through the door and back into the store, leaving the entiregroup stunned.

JAY

Man, whatever. I was gonna quit anyway.

Jay turns and walks back towards his car, his life has turned another page. Therest of the group walks up to clock out and follow Jay's lead, going home.

INT. APARTMENT BUILDING- evening

Steve opens the door to see Joe lying on the couch, watching a Spanish soap opera.

STEVE

You actually watch this junk?

JOE

Shh!

Spanish woman

(on T.V.)

¿qué has dicho?

SPANISH man

(on T.V.)

preguntaban por tu hermana.

The soap opera on T.V. fades into a commercial, leaving Joe sitting on the couchwith his mouth hanging open.

JOE

POR QUE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

STEVE

You know what they were saying?

JOE

I think it was something about a goat.



STEVE

All right, then. I won't even ask anymore.

Steve walks into the kitchen and throws his bag onto the kitchen table. He pullsout a mug and pours himself some coffee. He walks back into the living room andsits on the couch.

STEVE

Got you a job today.

Joe immediately sits up upon hearing this, excited by the news.

JOE

You did?

STEVE

Well, I didn't really get it for you. S guy got fired so his spots yours. Ifyou're interested.

JOE

Hell yeah I'm interested! What am I going to be doing?

Steve

Working on the back docks with me. Just unloading some boxes to put into storage,not too bad.

JOE

All right! I love ya man!

STEVE

Yeah, yeah. Save the gay parade for a later day.

JOE

No man. You don't know how happy I am.

STEVE

All right, settle down. Don't wet yourself.

Steve gets up off of the couch to put his cup in the dishwasher.

STEVE

I'm going to bed. You probably should too. Don't wanna be late tomorrow.

JOE

Yeah, yeah. Oh, by the way, I ordered some power tools off of QVC today. They



should be here next week.

Steve enters his bedroom shaking his head.


Steve and Joe walk into the Must Buy the next afternoon with a new sense ofconfidence. Joe has finally rebounded and Steve is living the life. They approach

Paul's office to get everything settled with him for Joe to start work. Steveknocks on the door and the two men stand there, waiting patiently. After a briefmoment,

PAUL

Yeah? What? Who is it?

STEVE

Uh, it's me sir, Steve.

PAUL

(releaved)

Oh, come on in.

Steve opens the door and he and Joe enter the confines of what is Paul's office.

PAUL

Well, what can I do for you boys?

STEVE

Oh, not much. But last night Mike told me that Joe could get a job now, since Jaygot fired and all.

PAUL

Oh, no. No, I'm sorry but Mike's not in charge of hiring like that. True, Jay didget fired and that is his decision. But, I'm sorry Joe we don't need ya yet. Stillwaiting on those boneheads at night, ya know the ones I was telling you about,waiting on them to screw up. Just gotta hold out a little longer.

Joe is looking down at the ground, clearly disappointed.

JOE

All right. I'll wait.

Joe turns and walks out of the office, on his way out of the store.

STEVE

Hey, uh Paul? What the hell was that?

PAUL



What're you talking about?

STEVE

I told him last night that he would have a job today and he got himself all woundup. Even missed the end of his soap opera. From Spain no less!

PAUL

Wee, Steve you shouldn't have done that. We can't just hand out jobs like that.Gotta be patient.

STEVE

He's been waiting for to him what is an eternity. He hasn't been out of a job thislong before. He expected a job by now.

PAUL

Well, maybe he should just look for another job in the meantime...

STEVE

Oh and then just come running back here when you finally decide to give him a job?

PAUL

I don't know, I'm just trying to help out a little.

STEVE

You could help him out by giving him a damn job!

(settling down)

But, in the meantime can I have the day off. Gotta help him out a little, keep hisspirits high. It's the least you could do.

PAUL

Yeah, all right. I'll see you tomorrow.

STEVE

Thanks.

EXT. must buy PARKING LOT- AFTERNOON

Steve comes running out of the store, trying to catch up with Joe. He runs out andsees him nowhere.

JOE

Hey dumb ass, looking for someone?

Steve turns and sees Joe leaning up against the side of the Must Buy smoking acigarette.



STEVE

I didn't know you smoked.

JOE

Just started. Needed something to keep me busy, Spanish soap operas couldn't do itall the time.

STEVE

Hey, I'm sorry about what happened in there. I really thought you were gettingthat job.

JOE

No biggie. I just gotta wait a little longer.

STEVE

Yeah, but that's still not right. You were expecting a job, and you didn't get

one. Let me make it up to you. I took the day off, I'll devote it to you.

JOE

No, you don't have to...

STEVE

No seriously, I want to.

JOE

If you insist.

STEVE

All right. Where do you want to go?

JOE

Well...

INT. HAPPY BURGERS FAST FOOD RESTAURANT play area- AFTERNOON

Steve is shown sitting on a bench eating a hamburger. Joe is sitting across from,eating his food as fast as he can.

JOE

(mouth full)

Done! Can I go now?!

STEVE

Fine, but be careful.



Joe bursts up from his chair and runs towards the big playground located inside ofthe Happy Burger. He takes off his shoes and begins to climb inside the tubes,pushing kids out of his way in the meantime. Joe begins to climb through the tubesand makes his way towards the top of the playground, where there is a window. Heknocks hard on the window to get Steve's attention. Steve looks up, and Joe iswaving at him. Steve waves back. Joe then attempts to continue onwards, butsomething is wrong. Joe cannot move. He knocks on the window again and Steve looksup. Joe tries to yell "I'm stuck!", but no sound can get through the window. Joe

tries to move again but is unsuccessful. That's when Steve realizes Joe is stuck.

STEVE

Oh shit! You're stuck!

Joe tries to say "DUH!" and throw his hands up in the air, but instead he hits hishead on the top of the tube.

STEVE

Wait there. I'll get help!

Steve runs off to tell someone, anyone of his friends troubles. Joe is seensitting in the tube, waiting to be rescued. Then, a girl climbs up the tube andsits next to Joe.

little girl

Hi.

JOE

HI there.

LITTLE GIRL

What're you doing?

JOE

I'm stuck.

LITTLE GIRL

Oh. Nobody down there likes you. They say you taking up everybody else's turn.

JOE

Well, they can come up here but there won't be any where for them to go.

The little girl gets a surprised look on her face, and looks down at the otherkids.

LITTLE GIRL

Hey you guys, he said we can all come up!

JOE



(puzzled look on his face)

Wait? What? No! That's not what I said!

But it was too late. The enormous crowd of kids came rushing up from the bottom ofthe tube, pushing Joe and the little girl farther into the tube.

JOE

Hey, kids! Stop that! That's really starting to hurt!

The kids weren't listening, because, well they're kids. In the nick of time, Stevecome running back into the Happy Burger play area with a fireman, carrying achainsaw. Steve pointed to Joe, showing the fireman where he was.

fire CHief

All right, I'm gonna need everybody out of the tubes so I can get that poor manout of there.

Moans are heard from the group of kids as they are led away from the play area by

their parents. When all the kids are gone, the fie chief goes to work. He uses thechainsaw to cut apart the tubes and safely return Joe to the ground. A net isplaced towards the bottom of the ground to catch Joe.

JOE

Thank you so much. That won't happen again.

FIRE CHIEF

Let's hope not. They do put those safety rules on there for a reason.

JOE

Well, I know for next time.

Steve and Joe turn and walk out of the Happy Burger with a new story to tell.

STEVE

Well, that didn't go so well. Where to now.

JOE

Steve, I really appreciate this but I really just want to go home.

STEVE

Oh, come on. Where to?

JOE

Well...

ext. puffs putt putt golf course- afternoon

Steve and Joe are on the mini golf course, Steve up to hit.



STEVE

All right little ball, go to your calling.

Steve hits the ball. It goes into the hole.

STEVE

YES! That is what I'm talking about! You're turn.

Joe puts down his ball and measures up his shot. He puts his club down andattempts his shot. The ball ricochets off of a wooden statue, hits and windmill,and comes back to hit Joe in the face.

JOE

(grabbing his nose)

Oh, dammit. That hurts!

STEVE

(laughing)

You okay chief?

JOE

Yeah, I'm glad you thought that was funny. Ah, dammit.

Joe puts his ball back down and lines his shot up. He takes a swing and this timethe ball lands up in the water.

JOE

All right, I'm done. Let's go.

STEVE

What? Come on man.

JOE

No. I'm serious Steve. Let's just go home.

STEVE

Fine.

INT. APARTMENT BUILDING- EVENING

Steve and Joe enter their apartment and Joe immediately jumps on the couch andturns on the T.V. Steve walks into the kitchen.

STEVE

You want anything to eat?



JOE (O.S.)

Not hungry.

Steve closes a cabinet and walks back into the other room.

STEVE

I'm going to bed. Night.

JOE

Night.

Steve walks into the bedroom and closes the door behind him. Joe looks over at thedoor and when he is sure that Steve will not be back out, he gets up and goes tothe other bathroom. He begins tearing through the medicine cabinet. He finds abottle of pills and takes the bottle with him. He goes to the kitchen and takes abeer from the fridge. Then he goes and sits on the couch, pill bottle and beerbottle in hand. He begins to read the directions on the bottle of pills.

JOE

Should never be taken with alcohol...

Joe unscrews the pill bottle and pours a couple in his mouth, then opening thebeer and taking a swig of beer.

JOE

Ah...

INT. APARTMENT BUILDING BEDROOM- MORNING

Steve awakens in the morning to the sound of his alarm. He looks at the clock. Itreads 8 a.m. He groans and gets out of bed and walks towards the door, opening itrevealing the living room. And Joe lying on the floor, unconscious with the beerand pill bottles lying near him. Steve barrels through the door and rushes to hisfriends side.

STEVE

Joe! Oh god, what did you do? Joe! Wake up!

Steve notices the pill bottle near him and picks it up. Then he sees the beerbottle and then throws the pill bottle down and rushes towards the phone. He dials

911. After a ring,

911 operator

911, what's you're emergency?

STEVE

My friend, he, I don't know if he's dead, or unconscious, oh god. Please help.

911 OPERATOR



Okay, sir. We're sending over an ambulance to your house now, just stay calm.

STEVE

Thank you.

Steve hangs up with the operator and is now crying. He kneels down to his friend

and continues to cry.

int. pleasant view hospital waiting room- morning

Steve is sitting in a chair with his head in his hands. A doctor walks through thedoors with charts in his hand.

doctor

Steve?

Steve looks up and over at the doctor.

STEVE

Uh, yeah. Right here.

DOCTOR

Oh, Steve. How ya holding up?

STEVE

Not too good actually. How's Joe?

DOCTOR

Well, he should be fine. He's sleeping now, but you can go see him once he wakesup.

STEVE

Is he gonna need to stay overnight or anything like that?

DOCTOR

With the way he's doing right now, we're just gonna wait till he wakes up, do acouple of tests and if all goes well, he should be heading home tonight.

Steve nods, taking a deep breath.

DOCTOR

You're a good friend.

The doctor turns and walks back through the doors leaving Steve with a sense ofhope. He sits back done in his chair and begins to wait. Minutes become hours andSteve begins to fall asleep. He stirs in his chair, when finally the doctoremerges from the doors and walks towards Steve. He shakes him awake.



DOCTOR

Steve?

Steve sits straight up in his chair, now fully awake.

STEVE

Oh, doctor. Yeah, what's up?

DOCTOR

Joe's awake now, you may go see him.

STEVE

Oh, thanks doc.

The doctor turns and walks away and Steve stands up out of his chair andstretches, then proceeds to go see his friend.

INT. PLEASANT VIEW HOSPITAL joe's room- AFTERNOON

Steve enters Joe's hospital room and we see Joe lying in a bed, covers pulled upto his chest.

STEVE

Hey buddy. How's it going?

JOE

(quietly)

Hey.

STEVE

You look good. Feeling okay?

JOE

Holding on.

STEVE

You look good, though. We'll get you out of here real soon.

Joe lays his head back down and closes his eyes, going back to sleep. Steve getsup and leaves the room. He checks his cellphone, the clock reading 2:26. Late forwork.


Steve rushes through the doors of the Must Buy, trying to put on his vest and nametag at the same time. He heads towards Paul's office and knocks on the door. Aslight cough is heard from the inside.



PAUL

Just a minute!

Papers are heard shuffling around and cabinets being slammed closed.

PAUL

Yeah, come in! Wait! Who is it?

STEVE

It's Steve.

PAUL

Oh, well why didn't you say that it the first place! Get the hell in here!

Steve opens the door and enters the office where Paul is sitting in his chair,feet up on the desk.

PAUL

How can I help you good sir?

STEVE

(puzzled)

Uh, yeah. Just wanted to apologize for being late and all. JOe's in the hospital,so I was there with him.

PAUL

Hospital? Is he okay?

STEVE

Yeah, yeah. He'll be fine. Nothing serious.

PAUL

Okay. Yeah no big deal. Nothing going on here today. Go clock in.

Steve turns to leave, but Paul stops him.

PAUL

Oh, before I forget. Whenever he's up to it. Joe can come on in and interview forthat job. Fired those idiots this morning.

STEVE

Oh, cool. He'll be happy to hear that. Thanks.

PAUL

No prob. Hey, you still coming over to that retirement home on Saturday? Do a



little charity?

STEVE

Wasn't planning on it. This is the first I've heard of it.

PAUL

Well, there you go. I'm inviting you.

STEVE

I thought you weren't allowed back in that place after you killed that old guy.

PAUL

There is no proof I did that! Anyway, they decided to let be back in, but on closewatch. Real close watch.

STEVE

Alright, I guess I'll go.

PAUL

Fantastic. NOW GO GET TO WORK!

(laughing)

Oh, I'm just kidding. But seriuosly, you can go.

Steve turns and leaves, closing the door behind him.

PAUL

I need more people like him in my life.

INT. PLEASANT VIEW HOSPITAL WAITING ROOM- evening

Steve walks through the hospital doors and up to the receptionists desk.

STEVE

Uh, hi. I'm Steve. Here to see Joe.

From Steve's side, Joe's doctor looks over at Steve.

DOCTOR

Oh, Steve. Hi.Let me take you to Joe's room.

The doctor finishes writing and hands his clipboard to a nurse, then gestures forSteve to follow him.

DOCTOR

Joe woke up about an hour after you left.



STEVE

How is he?

DOCTOR

Oh, he's doing much better. Should be about ready to go home.

They reach Joe's hospital room and inside Joe is sitting on his bed, watching theT.V.

JOE

Oh, there you are. I couldn't take any more of this basic cable. You ready to blowthis joint?

STEVE

Just as long as you're sure you're ready to take off. You feeling okay?

JOE

Hey, never better. You know me.

DOCTOR

All right Joe, you're free to go whenever.

Upon hearing this news, Joe hops up off of his bed and grabs his jacket.

JOE

Let's go.

Steve turns to leave, with Joe following.

ext. hospital parking lot- evening

A light rain begins to fall as Steve and Joe exit the hospital and enter theircar.

JOE

You up for burgers?

STEVE

You know we have to talk about this.

JOE

What? Come on. It's done and over with.

STEVE

You tried to kill yourself.

JOE



But I failed. See how that works out.

STEVE

Stop doing that. Stop trying to play everything off, like it's nothing.

JOE

Look, we're two different people, okay. You're used to being out of work, I'm not.I know this was a stupid conclusion to come to, like something a moron does in themovies. But I'm past it now. Never again.

STEVE

You're right never again. But if you do, and you fail again, I'll personallyfinish you off myself. That's a promise.

JOE

I hear 'ya.

STEVE

All right. So you said you wanted burgers?

INT. HAPPY BURGERS FAST FOOD RESTAURANT- EVENING

Steve and Joe walk into their regular Happy Burger restaurant, where the managerseems to waiting for them.

JOE

I don't care what you say, there is no way Die Hard is a better action movie than

the Terminator. No way.

STEVE

Whatever, you're just bias. Ever since you swear you were using the urinal next toArnold Schwarzenegger, your on a Terminator high.

JOE

I'm telling you it was him.

STEVE

Well then explain to me why he would be in a bookstore at ten 'o clock at night.

JOE

Maybe he's a late reader, I don't know go ask him. What do you want to eat?

Joe then turns to see the manager behind the counter, staring at him.

MANAGER

Hello, Joe. Haven't seen you in a while.



JOE

Oh, yeah. You know, I've been around.

MANAGER

That's good. You should experience the world. It is a big place.

JOE

Yeah, it sure is.

MANAGER

Say, how would like to have you're old job back? There's an open spot.

JOE

Why? What happened to the other guys?

MANAGER

They kept urinating in the deep frier when I was on break. Didn't go too well withcustomers. They don't like piss fries.

JOE

I wouldn't think so.

MANAGER

No. One would not think so. Well, do you want the job or not?

STEVE

Oh, I wouldn't.

Joe turns back to look at Steve.

JOE

And why is that?

STEVE

Well, I was gonna wait till later, but Paul said you can get you're job at Must

Buy now. Open spot.

JOE

Really! That's great!

Joe looks back at the Manager.

JOE

Sorry old buddy. I'm moving on to bigger and better things.



steve

Oh no, must've slipped my mind.

JOE

What? Tell me what?

STEVE

Well, Paul doesn't like to be called sir. Makes him feel older.

JOE

Well, what do I call you?

PAUL

Paul stupid. Didn't you just hear him. He called me by my name, so you do thesame.

JOE

Oh, okay.

PAUL

No get to work!

Joe looks thrown back, not expecting this sudden urge of emotion. Then Paul beginsto laugh.

PAUL

Oh, I'm just messing with ya.

STEVE

Don't feel bad. He got me with that one too.

Joe breathes a sigh of relief, and sits there not knowing what will come next.

PAUL

Okay. Joe, I'll have you work on the back docks, Steve can show you the ropes. AndSteve, I'll probably have you on floor duty next week.

JOE

So Steve won't be working with me?

PAUL

No college boy, will that be a problem?

JOE



No sir... I mean Paul.

PAUL

Good.

A smile begins to creep across his face, until he begins to burst out laughing.

PAUL

I'm sorry, I can't hold a straight face that long.

Joe looks over to Steve, who is also laughing.

JOE

I don't know if I want to be working here in these conditions.

PAUL

No, no. It's just because you're the new guy, that's all. I probably won't even

talk to once you've been working here for a few weeks.

JOE

Oh, great to know.

PAUL

Especially at that old persons home. Gotta watch what I say. Well anyway, you twoare free to go.

Steve and Joe get up and leave Paul's office. Once outside, Joe looks to Steve.

JOE

Is he always like that?

STEVE

Yeah, but you get used to it. Come on, back dock is this way.

INT. MUST BUY ELECTRONICS STORE BACK DOCK- AFTERNOON

Steve and Joe walk out to the back dock, where Randall and Aaron are sitting.

STEVE

Hey guys. Mike around?

RANDALL

The hell would I know.

AARON

Should be back in his office.



STEVE

Yeah thanks.

Steve leads Joe back to where Mike's office is located. He knocks on the door.

MIKE (O.S.)

Come in.

Steve opens the door and leads Joe inside, where Mike is sitting at his desk.

MIKE

Steve, what can I do for you.

STEVE

Well Mike, we have a new helper here. This is my friend and roommate, Joe.

MIKE

Well, it's nice to have you aboard.

JOE

Thank you.

STEVE

Well, we'll let you get back to work.

MIKE

All right. Sounds good.

Steve and Joe exit Mike's office and go back to where Randall and Aaron aresitting.

STEVE

Hey guys. Can I talk to you for a minute?

RANDALL

Hell no.

AARON

Yeah, go ahead.

STEVE

This is Joe, he'll be working with us now. But on a sad note, I will be leavingnext week. it's back to the store floor for me.

RANDALL



Thank god. 'Bout time we got rid of you.

STEVE

Always the kind one, thanks Randall.

AARON

Alright. Welcome Joe and Steve, you will be missed.

RANDALL

Trucks here.

They all get up to help unload the truck while Joe stands back to watch how it isdone.

AARON

Mike! Trucks here!

Mike emerges from his office, mumbling something under his breathe, and signs thepapers. Aaron, Randall, and Steve begin to move the boxes around as Joe watches inawe.

EXT. MUST BUY PARKING LOT- evening

Steve and Joe emerge from the Must Buy after a hard days work, with a sense ofaccomplishment.

STEVE

So, think you'll be up to the challenge?

JOE

What, of doing that? Yeah. I could do that in my sleep.

Steve begins to laugh a little at his friends remark.

STEVE

Oh, so you think it's that easy? All right. We'll see.

The two men reach their car and get in their respective sides, Steve in thedriver's seat and Joe as the passenger.


The next day, Steve and Joe walk through the doors of the Must Buy, where Paul iswaiting for them.

PAUL

Gentlemen, good to see you.

STEVE



INT. MUST BUY ELECTRONICS STORE BACK DOCK- AFTERNOON

Joe walks through the doors to face his new challenge. Randall and Aaron aresitting, similar to the way they were yesterday.

JOE

Hey guys.

AARON

Yo, what's up. Joe, right?

JOE

Yeah.

AARON

I'm Aaron and that's Randall in case you didn't catch it yesterday. Where's Steve?

JOE

Paul got him working on floor duty.

AARON

Already?

JOE

Yeah.

AARON

Oh well. His loss. You can have a seat, this job is basically sitting around.

JOE

Oh, cool.

Joe sits down next to Aaron and stares out the back dock. Aaron nudges hisshoulder and offers him a cigarette, which he declines. Mike walks out of hisoffice and stands behind the group.

MIKE

Where's Steve at?

AARON

On floor duty today.

MIKE

Oh, all right. At least we got you on board, eh Joe?



JOE

Yeah, glad to be here.

Randall gets up onto his feet.

RANDALL

First delivery of the day.

The rest of the guys get up to go retrieve the order. Once the truck leaves, theguys begin to sort the boxes into stock.

INT. MUST BUY ELECTRONICS STORE- evening

Joe walks back into the Must Buy after a hard days work. He looks around until hefinds Steve, who is helping a customer. He approaches him and waits until he isdone talking.

STEVE

Oh hey. Ready to get out of here?

JOE

Yeah, actually Aaron invited me to go out for a drink, said you can come to. Cool?

STEVE

Yeah, sure. Let me go clock out and we can go.

Steve walks away to go clock out and Joe stands there waiting. Aaron emerges fromthe back dock, ready to go and shortly joined by Steve. As they were walking outof the store, Paul emerges from his office.

PAUL

Hey, you guys headed out?

STEVE

Yeah, gonna go grab a bite to eat.

PAUL

Oh cool. Mind if i come?

The three guys look at each other, unsure of how to respond.

PAUL

Oh, come on.

STEVE

Yeah, all right come on.

INT. SMOKEY'S BAR AND GRILL- EVENING



The guys walk into the bar and grill and are led to a table and handed menus.

PAUL

I've never been to this place before. Is it new?

AARON

No, I think it was built before the Must Buy.

PAUL

Oh, really. I don't get out much. So what's good to eat here?

STEVE

Steak's pretty good.

PAUL

Nah, I don't eat steak. This sounds good, filet mignon. French for fish is I'mcorrect. That's what I'll have.

The waitress returns to take their orders, starting with their drinks then theirfood. Once she leaves, conversation starts up again.

PAUL

So, who's up to go to the shooting range tomorrow? Steve, I know Ican count onyou.

STEVE

Actually, I gotta go pick up some friends at the airport, so I won't be able tomake it. Sorry.

PAUL

Oh, that's just wonderful. How about you Aaron? Joe?

AARON

No can do.

JOE

I'll be with Steve.

PAUL

You both gotta go?

JOE

Yeah, it's more of a two person thing. You know.

PAUL



No, I don't but whatever. You're all gonna miss the fun.

STEVE

I think we'll live.

The waitress returns with their orders and places them on the table, and begins to

walk away.

PAUL

Hey this isn't what I ordered!

waitress

Yes it is sir. That's filet mignon.

PAUL

(pointing to his plate)

This is.

WAITRESS

Yes.

PAUL

Oh, boy was I wrong. Okay thank you.

The waitress leaves and the guys are looking at Paul.

PAUL

So I made a mistake, sue me. Anyway, who do I have working on the back dock?

AARON

Me and Joe.

PAUL

All right. On Monday, we gotta prepare for Black Friday. You know how much of alivin' hell that'll be.

Paul takes another bite of his steak and a sip of his beverage.

PAUL

There's gonna be a load of shipments comin' in all week, so you all are gonna haveto be in top order so we can get this done.

Aaron

Yes, sir.



JOE

You got it.

PAUL

Good boys. Steve, I hate to do this to you but I'm gonna need you to work thefloor on Friday, deal with the crowd.

STEVE

No problem.

PAUL

Yeah you say that now. Wait until it's time to face the customers.

STEVE

How bad could it be? Just push and shove back, they'll move. No worries, I got it.

PAUL

Glad to hear it. We're running a huge sale in this Thursday's paper, so expect theworst on Friday. I'll bring leftovers, but feel free to contribute.

Paul gets up from the table and pats his pockets.

PAUL

Oh, looks like I'm a little short on cash. You guys can spot me, right. Thanks.

Paul walks out of the restaurant, leaving the guys dumbfounded.

INT. MUST BUY ELECTRONICS STORE- Wednesday afternoon

Several employees are gathered in the break room when Steve and Joe enter. At thefront is Paul, standing atop a stool, demanding order.

Paul

Those old-timers, like myself, know what this is all about. For those new staffmembers, I will explain. Every year at this time, we must unite to defeat the evilthat is Black Friday shoppers. Over the years, we have always lost someone tothese people, and it is time to stop!

Gasps are heard around the room, as they are still reeling from the remark of

losing someone.

PAUL

No, no people. I meant they quit. They're all fine, probably working at a shoestore, smelling people's feet all day. Poor saps. Anyway, we have some guidelinesto go over before the big day arrives.

Joe and Steve find a chair and are seated.



PAUL

Now, I'm sure everyone nows that this upcoming Friday is Black Friday, our busiestday of the year. To be better prepared for it, I have created a chart to help usthrough the day.

Paul gets down from his stool, hands out paper to everyone in the room.

PAUL

As you can see from this, our doors open at 6 a.m. At that time, I will be in myoffice, where I will remain all day and I am not to be disturbed.

JOE

So how is this supposed to help us?

PAUL

Oh, help you? I have no idea how to help you. Good luck I guess.

Paul steps down from his stool and begins to exit the room.

PAUL

Everyone back to work.

Groans are heard as everyone follows Paul out.

eat. sleep. repeat. -- a screenplay

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