Movie Reels Screenplay: Wasteland

[Dale]

Wasteland

Director
xboxking

Genre
Action/Drama

Cast
Josh Brolin as Lynd Breckman
Paul Dano as Sean Breckman
Nathan Gamble as Caleb Breckman
Emily Wagner as Elizabeth Schreck
Ben Foster as "Rex"
John C. Reilly as Ethan "The Wizard"
William James as Caleb's Young Friend
Joseph Leick as Young Friend's Father
Meredith Waiis as Young Friend's Mother


Plot
A father and his two sons brave all, as terror strikes into their lives. They are faced with several unexplainable catastrophes, that rip through the entire country. Throughout the film, other characters are introduced, and the mystery behind these disasters is revealed.

Release Date
February 8th, 2008

MPAA Rating
R for sequences of chaos and destruction, violence, and strong language.

[Dale]

Day -1


(Film fades in with a helicopter landing, on an aircraft carrier, which is outside the New York City harbor. The camera cuts to Lynd playing cards in his quarters, with his roommate Rex.)

Rex: Hit me

(Lynd flips a card)

Rex: Alright, I’ll stay
(Lynd lays his cards out, revealing 18)

Rex: So what’s going on with you man? I heard your getting a weekend off, before we gotta go.

Lynd: Yeah, the kids are coming up, and we’re gonna check out the city.

Rex: That’s awesome man! I don’t get any time off, though. Pretty bummed out bout that one, but I’m happy that your gonna get to have some time with the kids.

(Rex pulls his cards, and shows that he had 21. They begin another hand)

Rex: I mean after all, that b*tch of a mother those kids have, don’t let em get out too much.

(Lynd pauses and looks up at Rex)

Rex: Hey, I’m just sayin man. I mean after all that shit she did to you, I’d have probably killed her. Leaving you for that rich ass, and everything.

Lynd: You know Rex, this is supposed to be my happy day, so for the sake of conversation if you could not talk like that…

Rex: Jeesh, sorry man. I wasn’t trying to hurt your feelings or anything, I was just commenting on her behavior.

Lynd: It’s fine man. Don’t worry about it.

Rex: So when are they calling you in?

Lynd: Oh, they don’t have to. It’s already been arranged. Right now, I’m just waiting on the Lieutenant to come tell me.

Rex: Wait what? You don’t have to do all the hard paperwork, and the “leave lecture”?!

Lynd: No, I got my orders a different way. Don’t have to put up with the hardass this time.

Rex: Man, things seem to be working in your favor. That’s for damn sure! I wanna jump on your ship, and take life the easy way.

(They both laugh. The Lieutenant walks to the doorway)

Lieutenant: Hey, get your stuff together. Helicopters here to pick you up. Supposed to have you on the move in 5.
Lynd: Alright. Well, it looks like this is it, for awhile at least. I’ll see you soon man.

Rex: Don’t worry about it baby, this weekend is gonna fly by for you!

Lynd: I hope not, man.

(They both firmly shake hands, and Lynd walks out of the doorway, with his bag)

Lynd: Ah, well, it’s gonna be good to be free for a few days.

(Lynd boards the helicopter, and it takes off toward Manhattan. It flies for awhile, then lands on a pad, on a small building inside Manhattan‘s Financial District)

Lynd: Wow, I didn’t know we were allowed to land these things on non-military buildings. Have you got the time?

Lieutenant: It’s two thirty-six.

Lynd: Shit, you gotta make this quick. I’m supposed to be somewhere in like ten minutes!

Lieutenant: Well, landing is a difficult process so you’re gonna have to wait.

(The helicopter lands, and Lynd rushes out of it. He makes his way into an elevator, and out of the building. He quickly signals for a cab, and one pulls over to him)

Lynd: Hey, I need to get to 7th and 32nd, and fast!

(The cab drives off. Lynd is impatiently waiting to get to the train station)

Lynd: Come on, come on, come on. Oh, god man. They’re gonna be so pissed at you! No they wont. No they wont.

(The cab pulls up to Penn Station. Lynd gets out of the car and quickly runs toward the entrance)

Lynd: Oh, come on. Where are you guys!

Sean: Dad! Hey Dad! (Uses his hands to louder his voice. Lynd turns and sees them standing in a corner. Bags in hand)

Lynd: Oh, there you guys are. Guys, I’m so sorry I’m late. The chopper, was late and I hurried as fast as I could.

Sean: It’s alright. You do know that I have everything under control, right? I am capable? You know that, right?
Lynd: Yeah, I know Sean. It’s just that I don’t see you a lot, and I forget that your older now, and everything.

Sean: Yeah, well I am. (Sean nudges Caleb forward a little, with his hands on Caleb’s shoulders. Sean shakes his head to Lynd)

Sean: Can you get the bag?

Lynd: (Awkwardly) Uh, yeah, don’t worry about it. I got it son.

(Lynd reaches too fast in a rush, and knocks over the suitcase, which then knocks over 3 other suitcases)

Lynd: Ohhhh, shiiiit. Dammit, sorry people.

(People just stare at him, like he’s a moron)

Lynd: Alright guys, lets get out of here.

Caleb: Hi Dad, I don’t think I said hi to you yet.

Lynd: Uh, no buddy you didn’t. Don’t worry about it, though. How was your guys’ ride in?

Sean: Long and tiresome. What are we gonna do? I mean, other than looking at all the famous landmarks, and other stuff.

Lynd: Uh, well. Tomorrow I planned for us to take a boat ride on the Hudson. I rented a boat, and it’s docked about five minutes from the West Side Highway.

Caleb: Are we gonna get to do anything tonight, Dad?

Lynd: Well Caleb, by the time we get food, and back to the hotel it’s gonna be dark. So I think all the touring is gonna have to wait till tomorrow.

(Sean shakes his head at Caleb, while secretly pointing to Lynd)

Lynd: What? What was that all about?

Sean: Uh…Nothing Dad. I just bet him ten dollars on the train, that we wouldn’t get to do any touring tonight, because you would be late, and too tired to do anything fun.

Lynd: Any- Anything fun? What, well this is news to me? Since when have we not had fun together you guys?

(The kids remain silent)

Lynd: Well, come on guys. Caleb, come on man. When do we not have fun? I do EVERYTHING you want to do. And Sean, remember the time I took you out to the car show, when your Mom wouldn‘t allow it?

Sean: That was one time, seven years ago.

Caleb: (sympathetically) Uh, I have fun with you dad. Even though you don’t want to do anything tonight, that’s okay.

Sean: Well, maybe if you weren’t 2 hours late, we would have more time to go out and have fun.

Lynd: What are you talking about? I was 45 minutes late, and that was because of traffic!

Sean: Uh, actually you were an hour and 45 minutes late. It was daylight savings last weekend. Are you kidding me? Have you been living an hour in the past for a week?

Lynd: Your joking right? It’s not daylight savings time. That doesn’t make any sense. Look, I’ve got my watch in this bag somewhere.

(Lynd quickly rummages through his bag, desperately searching for his watch. While knocking the suitcases over, in his hurry)

Lynd: (Pulls out his watch) See? It’s two fifty-nine.

(Sean pulls out his cell-phone, flips it open, revealing that it is in fact three fifty-nine)

Lynd: Uh, well. My mistake. Thanks….for letting me know Sean.

(Sean smirks)

(They leave the train station, and get into another cab. They drive off, and get some quick food on the way to the hotel. They arrive at their hotel at dark)

Lynd: See guys, it’s five thirty right now. I told you it would be dark by the time we got here.

Sean: So what, we go to bed now?

Lynd: No, don’t worry about it. I’m just gonna go up there and take a little nap. You guys can watch TV if you like. You guys can go to bed at whatever time your mother lets you go to sleep. But just so you guys know, we’re getting up at about eight-thirty tomorrow.

(They check in and go up to their room. Their room, on the 23rd floor of the Wellington Hotel, was rather nice. Sean and Caleb, walked around and then just sat on the couch and watched some TV. Lynd went into his bedroom, and went to sleep. Caleb looked out the window for awhile, and watched the cars flooding the streets)


Day


(Lynd stumbles out of his bedroom, tired as can be. He slept through the whole night, since his nap once they got into the hotel room)

Lynd: Oh, god. I don’t think I’ve ever slept so sound in my life.

(He turns, to find Sean sitting on the couch watching TV)

Lynd: Have you been there all night?

Sean: No, I just got up. It’s about eight-thirty. You should probably go and get Caleb up.

Lynd: Yeah, I’ll go get him up.

(Lynd gets Caleb up, and Caleb quickly gets dressed)

(Suddenly there is a huge crack of lighting)

Lynd: Holy Shit! What was that?

Sean: I think it was lighting! That’s the loudest lighting I’ve ever heard!

Lynd: Is it raining?!

Sean: No, come here, it’s just overcast. Not dark clouds anywhere.

(Suddenly another huge crack, followed by a third. And suddenly there are multiple huge cracks of lightning)

Lynd: Cover your ears guys! God it’s SO loud!

Sean: Look in the street! People are running! Why are they all fleeing?

Lynd: It could be the lightning, but my god they are running fast. Is there something else?!?

(Caleb looks out of the window towards the south end of Manhattan, and sees that the buildings appear to be collapsing)

Caleb: Dad! What is happening there!

(Lynd leans toward the window and squints to see better)

Lynd: Oh, my god! Those buildings are falling! Sean go get my binoculars out of my bag.

(Sean races off into the hallway where Lynd’s room is. The camera follows Sean through the hallway, as he is running. He gets into the room, and grabs the binoculars out of the bag. He comes back to where Lynd and Caleb are)

Sean: Here! Here are the binoculars!

(Lynd takes a better look, now using the binoculars)

Lynd: Well, it looks like the buildings are collapsing, but I think that it might be spreading!

Sean: What do you mean, Dad?

Caleb: Yeah, Dad what do you mean? This is really scaring me!

Lynd: I mean that I think the buildings are collapsing, and that the collapsing is spreading. Oh, there goes another one. See? That building was untouched a minute ago. The collapsing IS spreading!

(The ground begins to shake, and the hotel window shatters. Caleb and Sean fall to the ground, and Lynd fights to keep his balance)

Caleb: Oh my god, daddy! (Tears streaming down his face)

Lynd: Alright, Caleb, Sean! We’re leaving RIGHT now. Get your shoes, and lets go!

Sean: What are we gonna do?!?

Lynd: We’re gonna get the hell outta here right now!

(The ground shakes, as they pull themselves out of the hotel room door. Sean runs over, and pushes the button to the elevator)

Lynd: We can’t use the elevator! We gotta take the stairs! We wont last 2 minutes in the elevator!


Sean: 23 floors, Dad?

Lynd: We have to! The ground is shaking, and there’s lightning striking. The elevator might get stuck, and then what!

(Lynd pushes the door to the stairs open. He and the kids run into it. They make their way to the ground floor)

(The camera cuts to when he’s at the bottom of the stairwell)

Lynd: Come On! Lets Go Guys! (He lets the kids go through the exit ahead of himself)

(They run out of the lobby while it is shaking. The hotel’s luxurious items are crashing to the ground, from the rumbling)

Lynd: (Talking to the manager) You gotta get these people outta here! That goddamn thing is spreading!

(They finally make it to the street, and see that buildings in Midtown, are now collapsing)

Sean: Dad! It’s almost here!

Lynd: I know, I know. Just let me think for a seco--

Sean: We don’t have a second to spare!

Lynd: Alright! Uh, Caleb. Come here buddy.

(He grabs Caleb and carries him, in his arms)

Lynd: Alright, the only way we can get out of here, is through the bridges or tunnels. Those are backed up, and we don’t have a car. That will take way too long, we’ve got to do something else.

Caleb: All these people are running. Maybe we should follow them.

Lynd: No way, not gonna do that, Caleb. These people have no idea where they’re going. They’re just running away.

Sean: Dad, could we use that boat you were going to rent?

Lynd: Great idea! Alright, we’re “here”. So that means the boat is…“there”. (Frantically looking around, trying to figure out which way to go)

Sean: What are you doing! I thought you knew where this place was!

Lynd: I do, I do. Sean! Just give me a second here. We’re gonna be just fine!

Caleb: (Stressed and confused) Dad, I don’t understand, what is going on!

Lynd: I don’t know, but we need to get out of here. Sean, stay close! We’re going to the dock! Just stay with me!

(They make their way up north, toward the park. Out of focus, you can see the Empire State Building collapsing in the distance, behind Lynd and his sons. Dust is spreading down the street. People are frantically running, and pushing their way through Lynd and his sons. A man grabs onto Sean)

Sean: Get off! Get off! Watch out!

Lynd: Hey! Get the hell off him!

(Lynd pushes the man into the window of a building, next to them)

Lynd: Are you alright?

Sean: Yeah, that guy just grabbed me. I didn’t know what to do.

Lynd: It’s alright, I think we’re gonna---

(He is interrupted by a huge crack that quickly makes it’s way through the middle of the street. People are knocked to the ground, as the crack spreads the street in half)

Lynd: The side’s-- The side is higher on the other side of the street!

Sean: What?

Caleb: Wha--

Lynd: GO! GO! GO! It’s gonna break off! Go now Sean!

(Lynd gets up, and carries Caleb across the street, following Sean. They quickly squeeze in between the cars that crowd the road. Just after they reach the other side of the crack, the ground breaks off, and the whole side of the road plummets)

Sean: Oh shi--

(Unbearable noise of collapsing buildings)

Lynd: Oh, no. Oh no. Guys WE GOTTA GO! NOW! NOW!

(Lynd looks up, as the collapsing skyscraper seems to be tilting in their direction)

Sean: We need to go straight, so the building doesn’t crush us!

(Lynd looks, and sees the crack continuing down the road)

Lynd: Um…No. No Sean we can’t go that way. Look at the angle, see the crack, that thing is gonna go RIGHT where we’ll end up.

Sean: Well where are we gonna go?!!

(Lynd frantically looks around for another route)

Lynd: Right there! There’s a way! Through the alley!

(Lynd and his sons go into the alley, just as the area they would have gone to, breaks off. They frantically run as fast as they can, down the alley. The collapsing building, finally tilts itself into another skyscraper, and they crash into each other. They both crumble against each other, and shards of glass and metal, rain on the people below)

Lynd: Run! Keep you heads down guys, there’s glass coming down!

(Caleb and Sean scream, as the sharp glass comes down from the buildings. Lynd does his best to cover the children, receiving cuts of his own. The entrance of the alley where they started running, suddenly collapses)

Sean: Oh my god, Dad now it’s coming into the alley!

Lynd: We’re almost to the end of it guys, it will be over soon!

(They reach the end of the alley and Sean quickly darts off into the street. Lynd screams his for him, and quickly grabs him by the shirt. He is stopped just in time before the whole street collapses in front of him)

Sean: Oh, my god! Look!

(Sean gazes in horror as the road collapses hundreds of feet. People are hanging for their lives, on the ledges that remain)

Lynd: We can’t stay here guys, we got to get to that boat!

(They make their way along the ledge, and in between several other buildings. They run a few blocks fighting their way through the crowd, and collapsing roads)

Lynd: Alright! See that over there? That is the dock! It’s a straight shot from here. Sean! We go on my count……Go!

(They take off in a sprint, running and breathing heavy. The camera pans around them as they run, and shows tall buildings, crumbling in the distance. The ground collapses several yards behind them, and shrill screams are heard from the people in the background)

Lynd: Almost there guys, we are ALMOST there!

(They cross the final street before the dock. A body lands next to them, and into a cab’s windshield)

Sean: Oh, my god these people!

Lynd: Sean, Caleb. You guys gotta stick with me here! Are you with me, Caleb?

(Caleb is silently looking down at the ground. Beneath him are the bodies of people injured and dead. He quickly turns his head away from his father’s arms, and vomits)

Lynd: Alright we’re here!

(Lynd runs to the door, only to find it has been chain locked. He quickly sets down Caleb, who falls to his knees, and pulls out his pistol. He fires three shots before the gate swings open. He then grabs Caleb up, and runs through the door)

(They search awhile, and finally find the boat. They get in and start it up, as the entrance to the docks collapses)

Lynd: Here we go. It’s on!

(He pushes the boat off the dock, and quickly revs it toward the river. They drive through the Hudson river toward New Jersey. As they reach the middle of the river, the docks along the side of Manhattan collapse. A huge mist surges to the sky.

Lynd: Oh my god, it’s gone! That’s it! That whole thing, must have spread across the entire island! All that’s left now is half of Central Park, and Harlem! I can see Brooklyn from here! It seems to be alright. But the rest, man guys it’s ALL gone!

Sean: What could do that? I don’t understand how an entire city could just collapse like that.
Lynd: Look out there. You can see the Brooklyn Bridge collapsing toward Brooklyn.

Caleb: How did we get out? I mean judging by that, it doesn’t seem like anyone was able to escape.

Lynd: Not many, that’s for sure.

(A deep rumble surges though the water)

Lynd: Hey, what the hell is going on here?

Caleb: The water’s acting funny.

(Lynd gazes horrified. He can’t believe his eyes)

Lynd: The water is going toward the hole! It breached the river! Now the thing is gonna flood!

Sean: What do we do? What do we do!

(Lynd speeds the boat, as fast as he can)

Lynd: We gotta get to land! Or we’re done! It will drain us into it!

(They approach the border to New Jersey)

Sean: Jesus, Dad. It’s breaking off in bigger portions, than the land! It’s like 30 yards away!

Caleb: Why is there a wall up there?

(Lynd looks ahead. Confused at first, he soon realizes what lies ahead)

Lynd: That isn’t a wall. The water level has receded!

(They approach the dock which is 35 feet above them)

Sean: Well what are we supposed to do?

Lynd: I think if we drive ahead, there will be a service ladder or something, that would go underwater. We might be able to climb it to the street.

(They drive under the dock toward land. Some boats are floating in the water, others are still hanging to the dock)

Sean: Watch the boats, watch the--

(One falls, right toward them)

Sean: Watch the!!!

Lynd: I got it!

(He quickly maneuvers the boat under one of the docks, and the falling boat misses them)

Lynd: There’s a ladder!

(They drive up to the ladder, which is now above the water by four feet. Stranded people are treading water, and trying to reach the ladder)

Lynd: Alright, Caleb you go first.

(Lynd lifts up Caleb onto the ladder, and Caleb begins to climb. Sean follows him, as Lynd watches the collapsing nearer)

Lynd: GO! GO! GO! Caleb, Sean, GO! GO!

(Caleb and Sean are high enough on the ladder, that Lynd is ready to go. The ladder is now eight feet above the water. Lynd is standing in the boat, and suddenly jumps. (SLOW MOTION) Right after he has jumped from the boat, the ground collapses. The boat, the water, the people, and what remains of the dock plummet hundreds of feet. Lynd reaches in his jump, and grabs the bottom rail. He powerfully pulls his weight, with just his arms. He climbs a few more railings, until he can use his feet)

(Lynd turns around, and horrifyingly closes his eyes)

Lynd: Caleb, Sean. Don’t turn around guys. Just keep climbing up, and get onto the road.

Sean: Why Da---(begins to turn his head)

Lynd: Sean Don’t Turn Around!!!

(Sean quickly turns his head back to the ladder)

(Lynd turns around, to see a MASSIVE crater, stretching miles and miles to Queens and Brooklyn. The hole is partially flooded in the center, and the remains and rubble of buildings is seen)

Lynd: (whispering and shaking) Oh my god…

(They make it to the top without anymore ground collapsing. When they reach the top, a crowd of people staring into the distance and taking photos await them. As they gaze into the distance, Caleb and Sean are speechless)

Lynd: (Turns his head from the wreckage toward his children) We gotta get home!

(Lynd fixes the cuts on his arms and neck. He then tends to the few cuts on Sean and Caleb. Lynd later talks the situation over with a man, and the man lets them hitch a ride in his pickup, back to Dayton. They ride in the truck the entire day. It is now evening, and they are on the road, in the truck)

Caleb: I still can’t believe we are alive…

Lynd: It was definitely close. Any closer, and we wouldn’t be.

Sean: Why are we going back to Dayton?

Lynd: That’s where the house is. We’re gonna go there and check everything out. Then we’re gonna get in touch with you Mom, and I’m going to figure out what to do.

Sean: Mom lives in San Francisco.

Lynd: I know, I know. It’s gonna be fine you guys. Just relax awhile.

Sean: Well, it’s a bit hard to relax after that…

Lynd: Sean, I know your scared. But we need to look forward. When we get to Dayton, it’s gonna be fine. I’ll call Mom in the morning, and everything will be alright. Meanwhile, you guys get some rest. You might end up needing it.

(No more words are spoken, and Sean and Caleb slowly fall asleep. Lynd stays up, and looks out the window, at the road. They arrive in Dayton at about 4 A.M. They are then dropped off, at Lynd’s house. Lynd carries Caleb to his room, and Sean stumbles to his. Lynd lays on the couch in his living room, but doesn’t fall asleep. He stays awake until daylight, and the camera fades out)

[Dale]

Day +1


(Camera fades in with Lynd sitting on his couch, gazing out the window. The room is fairly large, with huge glass windows on both sides. Sean comes in)

Sean: Hey, did you call mom yet?

Lynd: No, it’s only 6:30.

Sean: It looks pretty light out.

Lynd: Yeah, well it’s like 3:30 at your Mom’s. So I’m not gonna call for awhile.

Sean: Well, what do you want me to do?

Lynd: I want you to go wake up your brother. Tell him to get dressed, and eat something, then he can go back to sleep if he wants.

Sean: Alright, I’ll be right back.

(Lynd continues to look out the window)

Sean: Hey Caleb, get up. Dad says he wants you dressed, and eating as quick as you can.

Caleb: (Tiredly says) What, is there another earthquake?

Sean: No, no there isn’t. I think he just wants you awake so that, if anything does happen, we can leave quickly.

(Lynd walks over to his kitchen and turns on his TV. He switches channels, until he turns to the news)

TV News Reporter: Scattered reports of chaos in New York yesterday. When a massive earthquake caused the island of Manhattan to collapse hundreds of feet. It is a “total loss” as they say, since it appears that less than 500 people were able to escape the island. Throughout the rest of the day, only a few more pieces of the city broke off. Leaving parts of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and New Jersey, wrecked as well.

(Sean comes into the kitchen where Lynd is)

Sean: Alright Dad, Caleb’s up. He’s dressed, but he says he’s not hungry.

Lynd: Tell him he NEEDS to eat. Here!

(Lynd throws Sean a pack of Pop-Tarts)

Lynd: Tell him to eat one, and you eat one also.

Sean: I’m not hungry either Dad…

Lynd: Sean, I need you to eat. You haven’t eaten since yesterday morning, and I need you to eat so that he will eat.

Sean: Fine.

(Sean leaves the room, and Lynd turns back to the TV. He watches the TV for a couple of hours. Sean comes back)

Sean: I really think we should call Mom right now. She’s probably worried sick. She knows we were in New York. She probably thinks we’re dead.

Lynd: Uh…No she’s probably still asleep.

Sean: What are you talking about? I can almost guarantee she isn’t asleep. Why don’t you want me to call her?!?

(Sean walks over the phone, and pulls it off the hook. He attempts to dial it but can’t get through)

Sean: What the hell is this? There’s no tone. Why doesn’t your phone work?

Lynd: It doesn’t work because I haven’t been home very much, and I needed the extra money for other things.

Sean: You can’t afford a phone? A home phone?

Lynd: Give me that.

(He walks over to Sean, and pulls it out of his hand. He then slams it back on the hook)

Lynd: Go get your brother, and get him ready.

Sean: He’s asleep.

Lynd: Why?

Sean: You said he could go back to sleep if he wanted to.

Lynd: Well get him up.

Sean: Are we going somewhere?

Lynd: I wonder if that kid next door is home.

Sean: What are you talking about? Are we going anywhere?

Lynd: Well, that kid’s parents are like never home. I’m just thinking that if anything happens here, he’s not going to know what to do.

Sean: Are we going anywhere?

Lynd: And if something does happens here, we’re gonna be gone as fast as we can be…

Sean: Dad!

Lynd: What?

Sean: Are we going anywhere!

(Suddenly a crack of lightning, strikingly similar to the many they heard in New York)

Sean: It’s back, It’s back!

Lynd: Go get Caleb!

(Sean runs off into the living room, followed by Lynd. Lightning strikes just outside their windows, and the windows shatter)

Lynd: My-- My goddamn windows! I loved those windows! Sean, that’s why I don’t have a phone. It was for those goddamn windows! This is NOT happening! Not here!

Sean: Dad there’s no time! We need to get out of here!

Caleb: It’s happening again, it’s happening again!

Lynd: Okay, go out the door and to the car. Sean, here are the keys to the car. Start it up, I’ll be right there!

Sean: Where are you going?

Lynd: I’m going to see if that kid next door is home. If so, he’s coming with us, because I can guarantee that his parents aren’t home.

(They run out the door, as multiple bolts of lightning strike feet away from them. They continue to run to the car, as a tree in the front yard is hit. Lynd speeds past Sean and Caleb, and runs across the neighbor’s driveway toward Caleb’s friend’s house. He notices that there is no car in the driveway, and frantically knocks on the door)

Lynd: Hey! Hey! It’s Lynd Breckman. Open the door!

(Sean screams from the car)

Sean: No one is there! It’s no use. We’re gonna die if we don’t get out of here!

Lynd: Just hand on a seco---

(The door opens, and Caleb’s friend stands in the doorway)

Caleb’s Young Friend: What are you doing at my house?

Lynd: I need to take you with me. Have you got a cell-phone?

Caleb’s Young Friend: Yeah, uh. Hang on.
Lynd: Get your shoes, get a coat! We’re leaving RIGHT now!

Caleb’s Young Friend: But, my parents aren’t home…

Lynd: Kid, just do what I say. Caleb is over there in the car. We have to go right now. There’s no choice in the matter. I’ll explain on the way.

(The kid runs inside, and quickly puts on his slippers. He grabs his cell-phone, and runs out the door. He and Lynd run to the car, and Lynd backs out of the driveway. Lynd quickly slams on the gas, and they speed down the road. Mist sprays from the tires, as the road is wet from previous rain)

Caleb’s Young Friend: Where are you taking me???

Lynd: Uh, hang on back there kid. We need to get out of the city. Do you have your cell-pho---oh shit!

(Lynd dodges a car and drives into the opposite lane. An oncoming car approaches just feet away, and he quickly swerves back into the right lane. Lynd quickly looks in his review mirror, and sees the cars behind him sliding on the wet road)

Caleb’s Young Friend: What is going on here! What are you doing! Where are you going!

Lynd: I said, we’re getting out of the city!

Sean: How are we gonna get out?

Lynd: I-75 seems pretty good, huh. I think we’ll take it. It’s only 8:52 right now, so we shouldn’t have too much traffic.

Sean: Didn’t New York happen at 9?

Lynd: Yeah, I think it did. You think it will happen at 9, here?

Sean: I don’t know, but doesn’t 75 go past downtown?

Lynd: Yeah it does. So that means we could have 8 minutes at the most to get away from it.

Sean: Why don’t we go south?

Lynd: It will take too long. And if we take 75 north, then we can take 70 west, and get out of the state.

Caleb: Dad?

Lynd: Hey Caleb. How you doin back there buddy?

(Caleb leans over to the front and gets in between the front seats)

Caleb: Hey, where are we going and what is going on?

Lynd: I’m taking you, Sean, and your friend, and getting out of the city.

Caleb: What about his parents?

Lynd: Oh shit, that reminds me! Thanks Caleb. Hey kid, did you get that phone?

Caleb’s Young Friend: Yeah, I did. Do you need it?

Lynd: No, I don’t. But, I need you to call you Dad, or your Mom, or whichever of them answers their phone.

Caleb’s Young Friend: Why? Well I mean, what do you want me to say?

Lynd: I want you to tell them where you are, and tell them to get out of the city immediately. Tell them it’s an emergency.

(Caleb’s Young Friend dials the number)

Young Friend’s Father: Hello?

Caleb’s Young Friend: Hey, Dad?

Young Friend’s Father: Hey, son. How are you doi--

Caleb’s Young Friend: Never mind that, Dad. Where is Mom, and where are you?

Young Friend’s Father: Uh, she’s with me. We’re on the highway coming home. Wow son, have you seen this lighting? It’s REALLY something.

(Lynd’s car speeds around a corner, and drives through a red light)

Caleb’s Young Friend: Dad! Don’t go home! Stay on the highway, and keep going north. Go north until you reach….Hey, sir what was that highway?

Lynd: 70! Tell them to take 70 West!

Caleb’s Young Friend: 70, he says. He says to take 70 West!

Young Friend’s Dad: Son, I don’t understand. You sound stressed. Is everything alright?

Caleb’s Young Friend: No Dad! Nothing’s alright! You NEED to go north, and get out of the city!

Young Friend’s Dad: Well, son I’m sorry, but I don’t understand the urgency here. We are coming home to check up on you. This storm looks to be a dangerous one, and we don’t want you home alone.

Caleb’s Young Friend: Dad! I’m NOT at home! I’m with…Caleb, what’s your Dad’s name?

Caleb: Lynd Breckman

Young Friend’s Dad: Your not at home!?! Who are you with? This is dangerous son, you need to get home RIGHT now!

Caleb’s Young Friend: Lynd Breckman! His name is Lynd Breckman! He’s Caleb’s father! He’s our next door neighbor!

Young Friend’s Dad: Who is Caleb? I know a Lynd Breckman, I think.

Caleb’s Young Friend: Yeah, he’s our next door neighbor. Caleb is his son, who lives in San Francisco. Look Dad, there’s NO time! You have about 6 minutes to get out!

Young Friend’s Dad: 6 minutes, until what? This doesn’t make any sense!

Caleb’s Young Friend: I know it doesn’t. I don’t really know what is going on either, but Lynd is sure that something terrible is going to happen at 9. Just get out, and we’ll call you back!

Young Friend’s Dad: Alright, well I guess I’ll keep going north then. I’ll talk to you soon son. I love you.

Caleb’s Young Friend: I love you too, Dad. Tell Mom I love her.

(He hangs up the phone)

Lynd: You did really good right there kid. You handled yourself well.

Sean: Where is the highway?

Lynd: We’re right by the GM lot. We’re gonna get on 741, and take it to the highway.

(Lynd speeds his car through another light, and turns right, onto 741)

Lynd: Alright, one more light, then it’s the highway.

(They speed through the final light, and approach the on-ramp)

Sean: Dad, that’s not the highway. It’s an off-ramp!

Lynd: I know that, Sean. But there’s no other way on. This is the closest and quickest!

Sean: Shit, Caleb and friend. Buckle your seatbelts!

(Lynd punches the gas as they ram onto the on-ramp. They speed past a line of cars coming off, facing the opposite direction)

Lynd: Their turning, their turning. See guys, it’s okay. We’re gonna be alright. The cars are getting out of the way.

(They speed past the cars, and end up in the oncoming traffic lanes of the highway)

Sean: Dad, Dad! What are we gonna do here?

(Cars are quickly approaching, but Lynd sees a gap in the center of the highway. He quickly swerves the car out of the oncoming lanes, and into the northbound lanes)

Lynd: Alright, we’re in! Look at it! Hardly any traffic!

(Sudden flashes behind their car, draws their attention)

Caleb: Oh, no!

Sean: Dad, it’s a cop! There’s a cop right behind us!

Lynd: Well we ain’t stopping. It’s 8:57! We’ve got less than 3 minutes to get past downtown!

(The cops sirens continue, and he begins to shout over his horn)

Highway Patrol Officer: Pull over your vehicle, and turn off the engine!

Sean: Dad, he might shoot at us.

Lynd: Don’t worry guys, he wont shoot at us. We’re only speeding. Haven’t you ever seen the most wanted videos, like on TV. The cops chase the speeders for hours. They only use their guns if the people in the car are a threat.

Sean: Don’t you still have that gun from New York?

Lynd: Yeah…So?

Sean: Well, I think that could count as a threat.

Lynd: Well he doesn’t know I have that in the car. Another reason why not to pull over.

(Lynd continues to watch the police sirens in his review mirror. They come up on downtown Dayton. The highway’s layout goes along the west side of Dayton, then curves northward)

Caleb: It’s 8:58! We got two more minutes!

Lynd: Yeah, we’re coming up on downtown now.

(They are now passing directly beside downtown Dayton. Downtown can be seen, through Main Street)

Sean: Look at the people down there. Just goin about their business. They have no clue what’s about to happen. And no chance of survival.

Lynd: Sean please. (He looks over to his son) We don’t need to think about that. All we need to think about is getting out of here.

(The cop continues shouting over his horn, and tries to get up next to their car. Lynd swerves his car close to another car, so the officer can’t get near them)

Highway Patrol Officer: I’m only going to ask you one more time! You must pull over your vehicle, and turn off your engine. I’m only gonna offer it once more. If you do not do as I say. I will use other means, to get your attention!

Sean: What do you suppose that means? You think he’ll start shooting?

Lynd: If he starts shooting at us, I’ll shoot back at him.

Sean: That’s illegal! Your gonna go to jail for a LONG time if you do something like that!

Lynd: This whole city is gonna be gone for a LONG time in a couple minutes. It’s not gonna make any difference if I defend myself against a cop.

Caleb: Dad, I don’t want you to do anything like that. Your just going to get us, or you hurt.

Lynd: Caleb, I’m not going to shoot at the cop. But if he shoots his gun in your direction, I don’t have a choice.

Sean: It’s 8:59!

Lynd: Uh, oh. We’re not clear of the city. Have you been checking the clock? How far into 8:59 are we?!?

Sean: I don’t know, I didn’t see it! Caleb, did you or your friend see the clock change?

Caleb: No I didn’t. Did you?

Caleb’s Young Friend: No.

Lynd: (Lynd looks around, weighing out his odds) Well, f*ck this!

(Lynd speeds the car up and passes several cars going much slower. The cop follows him, and continues to shout over his horn)

Highway Patrol Officer: Alright sir, you have forced me to do this. If you don’t stop now, I will hit your vehicle. I will force you to a stop, and then you will be arrested!

(The cop speeds his vehicle, and gets next to Lynd’s. The cop looks directly at Lynd through his window, and Lynd looks back)

Lynd: How are we looking on the time? (He asks Sean, while looking at the Patrol Officer)

Sean: Still 8:59 Dad.

Lynd: Alright. Well it can’t be for too much longer. If it were 9 right now, how do you think we would be, distance wise?

Sean: Uh, I couldn’t say. It would be close. But I don’t think the same thing is going to happen, as New York.

Lynd: That’s what I’m thinking.

(The cop suddenly swerves his vehicle toward Lynd’s. Caleb and his friend scream, and Lynd slams on his breaks. His car slides a bit, but dodges the patrol car. The cop runs into the cement barrier, and Lynd drives past. He clips the back of the patrol car, with the front bumper of his, but makes it through. He then kicks the accelerator, and speeds off down the highway)

Sean: Alright, it’s 9! It’s 9!

(Lynd looks in his review mirror, awaiting collapsing buildings. His kids, and Caleb’s friend are all looking out of the rear window, for something to happen)

Sean: It’s 9, what’s going on?

Lynd: They aren’t collapsing! What is going on here?

Caleb: Is it nothing?

(The camera pans around everyone’s faces, even Lynd’s. Who is now turned around in his seat, awaiting destruction. There is silence in the car)

(Suddenly there is a changeover, and the camera is showing an ariel view of the city of Dayton. The camera changes, showing people downtown going about their daily lives. Showing crowds of people walking down the street, and getting in and out of vehicles. The cameral suddenly goes white, and a massive explosion rips through downtown’s center. The explosion is an unstoppable force which fractures, and demolishes the buildings, upon contact)

Lynd: Whoa, whoa, whoa! That’s not what happened in New York!

Caleb: It’s happening! It’s happening!

(The force blows through the building and breaks through the ground, as it spreads)

Sean: Is that a freaking nuke!

Lynd: No, no way. It’s not a nuke, it’s moving too slow.

Sean: Well what the hell is it?

Lynd: I don’t know. I can’t see it very well. All I can see is smoke and dust from the buildings. Whatever it is, it’s blowing away the WHOLE city!

Caleb’s Young Friend: Did my parents get out?!?! Did they get out!

(The explosion continues to rip through the city, and spreads to the highway. It blows away the section of the highway, where Lynd had already passed. The patrol officer attempts to run away from it leaving his car, but is blown away, as the highway section is totally ripped off, and blown into houses)

Lynd: Highway’s gone! I think it’s gonna start breaking off.

Sean: Well is it gonna reach us?

Lynd: No, I don’t think it will. I think we have enough ground on it. I’m gonna speed up, I think. Get a little more ground between us and it. Just to be safe…

(They speed up, as sections of the highway begin to collapse. The buckling highway continues toward Lynd’s car)

Sean: It’s coming toward us!

Lynd: Yeah, but we got almost half a mile on it. I think we’re gonna be alright.

(The highway sections fracture, and a rumble is sent across the highway to Lynd’s car. Cars ahead of Lynd‘s speed up)

Lynd: Uh, oh. I think it might be coming a little faster than I thought!

(The section creases of the highway crack open. Dust from the highways spews into the air at each of these section breaks. These crease cracks break through every section of the highway, clear past Lynd’s car)

Sean: Oh shit Dad, look! The highway is loosening!

Lynd: I see it, I see it!

Sean: Well go faster Dad!

Lynd: I’m trying! I can’t go any faster. We’re flying right now, and dodging traffic. I can’t speed this thing up!

(The explosion is drawing nearer to Lynd’s car. The crease cracks in the highway sections begin to move, causing the highway sections to shift to different heights. Lynd’s car begins to bump around, all over the road. These shifts go clear to Lynd’s car, and all the cars behind Lynd, crash into the shifting sections of the highway)

Sean: Oh, my God! Dad! It’s coming!

Caleb: The highway is moving, right behind us!

Lynd: Alright, I see it, we’re gonn---

(Suddenly the section their on, shifts up. Their car jumps five feet, and lands on the next section of the highway)

Sean: Oh my god, that was close!

Lynd: Yeah, we need to speed up.

(The front and rear tires on the right side of Lynd’s car blow out at the same time)

Lynd: Shit! Well, I can’t go any faster guys!

Sean: What are we gonna do?

Caleb: Dad! Look ahead!

Lynd: Oh shit, the highway collapsed up there!

(Lynd swerves his car to the off ramp, and goes through an intersection at the bottom. He quickly passes the collapsed section of the highway, which has crushed the cars below. He speeds onto the on-ramp which is straight in front of the off-ramp)

Lynd: Alright! How is the big thing doing?

Sean: It’s still coming, but ahead of us the highway looks better.

Lynd: Yeah, that’s because we’re no longer on overpasses.

(Lynd’s car speeds off toward the air force base, and continues northward)

Sean: Hey, look at that. You can see the base from here.

Lynd: Yeah, doesn’t look like anyone’s there.

Sean: Where the hell are all the planes?

Lynd: I don’t know, but I don’t see a single one there!

Sean: You think they knew this was going to happen?

Lynd: I don’t know Sean, but that is really strange. I can’t believe not a single plane is there.

(Lynd’s car continues on 75. They drive for a bit longer, and change to 70 West)

Caleb’s Young Friend: Should I call my Dad?

Lynd: Yeah, call him.

(The kid dials the number, and awaits an answer)

Caleb’s Young Friend: Oh god, please pick up. Please…please pl---

Young Friend’s Father: Caleb! Caleb! Oh my God, son! Did you get out?!?!

Caleb’s Young Friend: Yeah, we did. We’re okay! Is Mom with you?

Young Friend’s Father: Yeah, she is. We’re okay! Where are you guys?

Caleb’s Young Friend: Where are we?

Lynd: We just got on I-70, and heading west.

Caleb’s Young Friend: We’re on 70, heading west!

Young Friend’s Father: Okay, where should we meet?

Caleb’s Young Friend: Where are we going to meet them?

Lynd: Uh, tell him at the Sonoco, just past the Indiana border. He’ll be able to see it from the highway.

Caleb’s Young Friend: There is a Sonoco gas station, just outside the border to Indiana.

Young Friend’s Father: We’ll be there. Stay safe, son! I love you.

Caleb’s Young Friend: I love you too, Dad. Bye.

Young Friend’s Father: Bye, son.

(The explosion in Dayton slows down, and finally stops. Lynd drives on, and can see a massive cloud of dust and smoke, where Dayton was)

Sean: God, that thing was like a nuke.

Lynd: It practically was! Except it was slower acting, which gave us more time to get out.

Sean: Do you think it was a terrorist attack?

Lynd: I would, except for the fact that the same stuff happened as what happened in New York. The lightning and stuff, was all too similar. And I don’t think New York was humanly possible.

Caleb’s Young Friend: Is that how you guys knew what was going to happen?


Lynd: Yeah, we were there yesterday, when it hit. We just got out. A lot like how we got out just now. We didn’t have a car, though.

Sean: Dad, I think we were a bit closer yesterday. We really shouldn’t have survived.

Lynd: Yeah, well it was close either way.

(Lynd’s car speeds on through the Ohio/Indiana archway)

Caleb: Alright, there’s the Sonoco!

(Lynd pulls his car to the off-ramp, and into the gas station parking lot)

Caleb’s Young Friend: My parents are already here!

(Caleb’s friend opens the door, and runs out to his parents before Lynd can stop)

Young Friend’s Father: Son, Son!

Young Friend’s Mother: Oh, god! Baby!

(The kid’s parents run to him as well. They meet, and hug each other. The mother is crying and kissing her son)

Young Friend’s Mother: Oh, baby. We missed you! We thought you guys got stuck.

Young Friend’s Father: Son, I’m so glad your alright. I’m so glad you warned us! You were right, oh god were you right.

Caleb’s Young Friend: It was him, Dad. He got me out of the house.

(Caleb’s friend turns from his parents, and points to Lynd: Lynd is standing halfway out of his car, leaning on his opened door. Sean and Caleb get out of the car)

Young Friend’s Father: It was him, son?

(The kid’s father gets off his knees, and walks over to Lynd. He shakes Lynd’s hand)

Young Friend’s Father: Thank you, very much. You saved our son, my wife, and I. I don’t know how to thank you.

Lynd: Don’t worry about it. I knew you guys weren’t going to be home, and I couldn’t just let him stay there.

Young Friend’s Father: I’m sorry. You seem quite familiar. Do I know you from somewhere?

Lynd: Yeah, I live next door to you guys. Like I said, I knew you guys wouldn’t be home so I got him.

(The kid’s Mom walks over to Lynd, while holding her son’s hand)

Young Friend’s Mother: How did you know we wouldn’t be home?

Lynd: Well, I’ve lived in that house for quite awhile. And you guys are usually not home. Even before that kid was born, you guys weren’t home. I didn’t mean anything by it, I was just saying that’s what made me think get him.

(The kid’s father impatiently rubs his head. He quickly turns to Lynd, and looks him in the eye)

Young Friend’s Father: How is it again, that you knew this would happen? This catastrophe? That’s all I can make out of what happened.

Lynd: We were in New York yesterday morning, when a disaster happened there. You saw it on the news, right? The whole city collapsed hundreds of feet…

Young Friend’s Father: And you guys were there? Last I heard, only about 500 people got out….You guys must have been a few of the lucky ones…

(Tension seems to be building between the Lynd and the kid’s father. Sean and Caleb notice the growing tension, and look at each other)

Lynd: Well as you can see, I knew what to do. I was in New York City until about 10:30 yester----

Young Friend’s Father: Uh, sorry to interrupt. But the whole city was gone by…oh…about 10. So there’s no way you could have left at 10:30.…

Lynd: The city…of New York… That DOES include New Jersey and Brooklyn. We escaped Manhattan at about 9. And ran through the city as it was collapsing, until around 9:45. We got to New Jersey at 10, and the rest of Manhattan was completely gone by 10:25...

Young Friend’s Father: So if you were really there, how were you able to get home so fast?

Lynd: I don’t really think I need to explain the whole situation to you, but since you ask.


Lynd: We hitched a ride with a guy, who was heading to Cincinnati. I talked him into dropping us off in Dayton. We rode in the car the rest of the day, and got back to the house around 4 in the morning. I stayed up the whole night, and this whole thing started at like 8:30. I gathered the kids, and got in the car. I got YOUR kid, and drove off. We called you, and…do I REALLY have to explain the rest?

(The kid’s Dad shakes his head “no”. He seems satisfied with what Lynd has said, even though there is still tension between them)

Lynd: Alright then…

(Lynd walks over to the gas station store. His sons look at the kid’s dad, and follow Lynd)

Lynd: Hey, sir. How bout a full tank of gas, and a couple of spare tires?

Gas Station Clerk: Well, for the gas it’d be about $20. For the tires, I’d have to check. I’m not even too sure we got any tires that’d fit the car you drivin.

Lynd: Thanks for checking. I’ll go fill up the car, and be back in a sec.

Lynd: Hey, you guys get some snacks, for the trip. I’m gonna fill up the car, and be back real quick.

Sean: Trip?

Caleb: Yeah, what trip are you talking about? Where are we going?

Lynd: Well, we’re sure as hell not staying here. I’m just saying to get food, because we may not be able to eat anywhere else for a long time.

(Lynd walks out the door, and gets into his car)

Young Friend’s Father: Where are you going?

Lynd: I’m getting gas. I’d say you do the same. You should probably go in, and get some snacks for the road. Chances are, we probably won’t get any food on the way. And once we get going, we ain’t stopping anywhere.

Young Friend’s Father: Who says we’re going with you……Lynd?

(Lynd slams the door to his car, and turns to the kid’s Dad)


Lynd: Well, you don’t have to. You can go wherever you want. But if you decide to venture off into places unknown, with this shit going on, I’m taking the kid with me.

Young Friend’s Father: Like hell you are. What’s with you and my kid, man? Why are you always acting like he’s yours?

Lynd: I’m not acting like he’s mine. I’m just telling his parents that if they want to go off and do something stupid, that he’s coming with me. I don’t want a kid to get killed, because his father had too much pride to listen to someone who knew more about something, than he did.

Young Friend’s Father: Is that why you think I’m pissed at yo---

Lynd: I couldn‘t care less why your pissed at me, but I suspect that to be the reason…. Fill her up…get the snacks…

(Lynd backs his car up, and pulls it into a gas pump. He starts to fill it, and the kid’s Dad pulls his car into another gas pump. He nods to Lynd, and Lynd grins)

(The camera cuts to Sean and Caleb in the store, grabbing items. The kid’s Dad walks in)

Caleb: Hey, where’s my friend?

Young Friend’s Father: With his family… (he smirks) Where he belongs…

(The kid’s father walks away, and Sean turns to Caleb)

Sean: God that guys…..a dick.

(Caleb and Sean continue to gather items)

Sean: Alright, you take this stuff. I’ll grab the other stuff.

(Caleb takes three boxes of chip bags to the register. Sean carries three boxes of Coke cans to the register, behind Caleb)

(The clerk comes back from the garage. He’s got two spare tires in his hands)

Gas Station Clerk: Uh…well will that be all, sons?

Sean: Yeah, uh, my Dad’s gonna pay for it.

Gas Station Clerk: Uh, well that’ll total to $60.99.

Sean: Well, that’s a lot. Is that with tax?

Gas Station Clerk: Uh, yessir, it is. Already been cluded. And tell your father, that I’s able to find some spares out in the garage.

(Lynd walks into the store, and goes to the counter)

Lynd: How much is that?



Gas Station Clerk: Uh, like I told the boys, that’ll total to $60.99.

Lynd: That’s fine…

Gas Station Clerk: Hey, you boys seem like your in an awful rush. Mind me askin’ where your headed?

Lynd: Outta here, as fast as possible.

(The gas station clerk leans up to Lynd)

Gas Station Clerk: (whispers) Are ya’ll in some sorts a trouble?

Lynd: (chuckles) Something like that.

(Lynd puts the money on the counter)

Gas Station Clerk: Uh, well almost forgot. I have those spares for ya. Found em in the garage…

Lynd: Thanks a lot, how much do I owe ya for them?

Gas Station Clerk: Well, they’re only spares. Couldn’t find anything nice for ya’lls. Uh…I’d say about $20.

Lynd: You need any tax with that?

Gas Station Clerk: Uh, nosir. No tax necessary. I figure since ya’ll are criminals runnin from authority and everythen, I’d give ya’s a head start, against the po-lice.

(Lynd smirks at the clerk)

Lynd: Thanks a lot, sir.

(Lynd pays the clerk, and grabs the tires. He, Caleb, and Sean walk out of the store. The kid’s Dad comes up to the counter, right after they leave. He buys several boxes of food and water)

Gas Station Clerk: You to? (He awkwardly looks at the kid’s Dad, then looks out the window)

(The camera cuts to Lynd and his sons, while they are loading up the car. Lynd gets the jack out of his trunk, and puts on the spares)

(The kid’s Dad comes out of the store, and loads up his car. Lynd is ready to go)

Caleb’s Young Friend: Caleb, am I riding with you or---

Young Friend’s Father: Your riding with us, son.

(The kid turns to his Dad, looks at the ground, and walks toward him)

Caleb: Hey, aren’t you coming with us?

(The kid turns to Caleb and shakes his head “no”)

Lynd: Caleb, they’re following us. It’s fine, just let him go.

(The kid gets into his Dad’s car. Lynd gets in his car, and Caleb and Sean do the same. Lynd pulls out of the gas station, and gets back onto the highway. The kid’s father follows Lynd’s car)

[Dale]

(The camera cuts to Lynd driving, and his kids sitting)

Sean: So what do we do now?

Caleb: Yeah, where are we going? What is this “trip” your talking about?

Lynd: Oh, hey is that cell-phone back there?

(Lynd reaches his arm behind the seat and pats around, trying to find the phone)

Sean: Why do you need a cell-phone?

Lynd: Damn, that kid must have taken it.

Caleb: Why do you need his cell-phone?


Lynd: No, no I was just gonna call your mother. You guys kept pushing me to call her earlier, and I never got around to it.

Sean: Yeah, you really need to call her

Lynd: (Shaking his head) That’s exactly what I was trying to do.

(The camera pans around the outside of the car, as it drives on the highway. The area around is pretty sparse, and filled with cornfields)

Caleb: Dad?

Lynd: Yeah Caleb, what?

Caleb: Can I see your gun?

(Lynd turns his head to Sean. Sean shakes his head, equally surprised)

Lynd: Uh..why do you want to see the gun?

Caleb: I don’t know. I’ve never held a gun before.

Lynd: Uh..yeah you have Caleb. We’ve gone shooting before…

Caleb: No, I’ve never gone with you.

Lynd: Yeah, you have. Sean tell him. You have gone with me to the range.

Sean: Actually, I don’t think he has. I think I went with you to the range…

Lynd: Really? How would I not know you’ve never been to the range?

Sean: I don’t know, but we’ve not been around very much…You know, with Mom and everything.

Lynd: Yeah, that’s a good point.

(Lynd reaches into his jacket, and pulls out his gun)

Lynd: Alright, I’m driving so can you do this Sean?

Sean: What? What do you want me to do?

Lynd: It’s alright, Sean. I just need you to point it away from everyone in the car, and pull the slide back.
Sean: The slide? Wha--What does that mean?

Lynd: It’s the slide. You know what a slide is….

Sean: Uh..No I don’t, Dad.

Lynd: Alright look, it’s quite simple. Just grab those little grooves, and pull back.

(Sean pulls the gun back, and lets go of the slide. It quickly slides forward, and the gun falls out of his hand. One of the rounds, falls into his lap)

Lynd: Shit, Sean! Be careful, the gun doesn’t have a safety.

Sean: This is a bad idea, I don’t want to do this anymore.

Lynd: No, it’s fine. You have to learn this. Look, you have to push that button first, and then pull back the slide.

Sean: (Nervously) Okay…I think I can do it.

(Caleb is nervously watching Sean)

Lynd: And you push the butto---

(Sean pushes the button, and the magazine falls into his lap)

Sean: I did it. Jesus, that was scary. Alright here Caleb.

Lynd: Sean! Wait, don’t give him the gun yet!

Sean: I thought you wanted me to unload it, and give it to him…

Lynd: Yeah, but there’s still a round in it.

Sean: I took the clip out, there’s nothing in it.

Lynd: Here, pull back the slide again, like you did.

(Sean pulls the slide back, and lets go. It flies forward once again, but he keeps the gun in his hand. Another round falls into his lap)

(Sean looks confusingly at the round)

Sean: How did?…

Lynd: Now the gun is empty. Now you can give it to Caleb.

(Sean reaches the gun to Caleb. Caleb feels the gun with his fingers)

Caleb: This is a cool gun, Dad.

Lynd: (Awkwardly) Uh…Thanks Caleb.

Caleb: What kind of a gun is this?

Lynd: That, is a Sig Sauer…It’s uh P229, and shoots a .40 S&W. I’ll show you the bullet, but not until you are done with the gun.

Caleb: What do these levers do?

Lynd: The one in the back, catches the slide. But, your not going to be able to see it work, since there’s no magazine in it.

Caleb: Okay…What does the one in the middle do?

Lynd: That automatically de-cocks the pistol. Actually, I think you can do that right now. See the thing sticking out in the back?

Caleb: Yeah?

Lynd: That is called a hammer. If you pull down that lever in the middle, you will be able to see the hammer fall.

(Caleb pulls down the lever, and lets go. The hammer falls into a de-cocked position)

Caleb: That was cool.

Lynd: Uh..yeah that’s wonderful, Caleb.

Caleb: What about the one in front of the others?

Lynd: That is to take the gun apart, but we’re not gonna do that right now.

Caleb: Okay, I’m done now.

(Caleb hands the gun across the seat to Lynd)

Lynd: Thanks Caleb.

(There is a sudden rumble under the car)

Sean: What’s happening? What’s happening!

(Lynd reaches in Sean’s lap, and grabs the magazine. He takes the magazine from Sean, and puts it in the gun. He de-cocks it, and puts it back into his jacket)

Sean: Look! Look! Ahead!

(Lynd looks ahead of the car, and sees the road cracking)

Lynd: Oh shit, is that kid’s parents still behind us?

Caleb: They stopped! They stopped!

(Lynd slams the brakes, and puts the car into reverse. He starts to back up the car, toward the parent’s car)

(The camera changes to a “chase” angle, and shows the back of Lynd’s car, as it drives in reverse. The camera shows the crack spreading under the car)

Lynd: Come on, come on!

(Lynd quickly stops, a few yards from the parent’s vehicle. He gets out of his car)

Lynd: Sean, get in the driver’s seat! Drive the car off of this crack! Over there! Drive the car over there! (Lynd points to the side of the road)

(Sean hops into the driver’s seat, as Lynd runs to the parent’s vehicle. Lynd begins frantically banging on the Dad’s window)

Lynd: Drive the car! Get it onto a side!

Young Friend’s Father: I can’t! I can’t! It’s stuck. I can’t do anything!

Lynd: Open your door! Open your door!

Young Friend’s Father: I can’t! The goddamn thing wont open!

(Lynd pulls his gun out)

Lynd: Cover your faces!

Young Friend’s Father: Son! Cover your face!

(Lynd smashes the driver window, then smashes the back seat window)

Lynd: Alright, get out!

(Under the car, small pieces break off where the crack is spreading)

Young Friend’s Father: Wait! Wait, my wife first!

Lynd: Get the kid out of the car first! Kid! Climb out the window!

Caleb’s Young Friend: I’m trying!

Young Friend’s Father: Okay, he’s getting out of the car. Now hurry, and get my wife!

(Lynd runs around the front of the car, and jumps over the crack, which is now three feet wide. He pauses, and looks at his own car. Sean, was able to drive the car safely onto a side of the crack. Lynd looks at the kid’s Mom)

Lynd: Alright cover your face!

Young Friend’s Mother: Okay!

(Lynd smashes the passenger window with his gun)

Lynd: Alright climb out! Here, I got you!

(Another piece of road breaks off and the car tilts. Lynd loses his grip, and the woman falls back into her seat)

Young Friend’s Father: Help!

Young Friend’s Mother: Oh, my god! You have to get us out of here!

Lynd: Hang on a second!

(Lynd runs back around the car to the driver’s door)

Young Friend’s Father: (crying) Oh, god man, get me out of here! There’s no time anymore. You have to get me out of the car!

(Lynd is shocked)

Lynd: No, you are last. Just hang on a minute!

(Lynd runs over to help Caleb’s friend, when another piece breaks off. The car tilts even more. The ground under the car begins to fracture, and the car sinks deeper and deeper)

Young Friend’s Father: Oh, my god! It’s gonna break any second!

(The car has sunk so deep, that Lynd has to lay down in order to reach inside the windows)

(Lynd crawls over to the driver’s window. He looks at the door)

Lynd: (horrified) You forgot the lock! The lock!

Young Friend’s Father: What? What lock?

Lynd: The door wasn’t stuck you idiot! You had it locked!

Young Friend’s Father: (sobbing) Oh, my god. I forgot to unlock it! Get me out! Get me out! Oh, god!

(The kid’s Dad begins to freak out. He unlocks the door and tries to open it. The car has sunk too low, and the door wont open)

Lynd: It’s stuck! The road is in the way! It’s no use!

Young Friend’s Father: (screaming and crying) Open, you f'n door!

(Larger pieces of road begin to break off, and the car sinks lower. Lynd gets up, and quickly darts toward the back seat window. He reaches his arm into the car. Lynd‘s head is resting on the car‘s roof, on account of the car‘s sinking)

Lynd: Alright kid, take my hand! I’m gonna get you out of here!

(Pieces break off, and the ground collapses. Caleb and Sean watch from Lynd’s car. The kid grabs Lynd’s hand. The car collapses with the ground, and the kid is pulled along. Lynd is pulled with the kid, and slides off the road. Lynd lets go and hangs onto the road’s edge. Lynd looks down as the car plummets into darkness)

(Screams are heard from the kid and his family)

(Lynd pulls as hard as he can, to get his body over the ledge. Sean runs out of Lynd’s car, and lays down to where his Dad is. He attempts to pull him up)

Lynd: (grunting) f*ck.

(Sean pulls him over the ledge, and Lynd lays down on the road. He gets up, and gets on his knees. He looks down into the darkness, where the parent’s car fell. He sees a bright light at the bottom, followed by a deep rumble. Lynd’s head falls into his hands)

Sean: Dad, are you okay?

Lynd: Aagh, Goddamn. He had the damn door locked the whole time. Bastard didn’t even know it, either.

Sean: We NEED to get out of here now!

Lynd: Yeah, (Lynd sighs) we do.

(Lynd slowly gets up, and runs back to his car. Sean gets back in, and they drive off)

(The camera cuts to Lynd driving nervously, and Sean sitting. Caleb is in the back seat, looking down in despair)

Sean: Where are we gonna go? The road has a huge freaking crack in it!

Lynd: Maybe we should just stay where we are….On the side of the road.

Sean: Seems a bit dangerous to drive like this.

Lynd: Yeah, but we don’t have much choice.

Caleb: Why is this happening?

(Sean turns around and looks at Caleb)

Sean: Why is what happening?

(Caleb looks up and tears are streaming down his face)

Caleb: This? Why is this happening? Why is there a huge crack in the road? Why did my friend fall into it? Why did that whole city back there just explode? Why??? Why did New York get destroyed? Why di--

Sean: Okay calm down Caleb.

Caleb: No! I’m not just gonna calm down here!

(Caleb begins to cry more)

Caleb: You don’t get it, do you! THIS is insane. People!….People are dying everywhere!

Lynd: We don’t know that, Caleb.
Caleb: Oh I know it! I f'n know that!

Lynd: Hey!

(Lynd looks into the review mirror at Caleb)

Lynd: You don’t use language like that Caleb. I don’t care what’s happening. You never talk to me, your brother, or anyone else like that! Ever! Ever again, you understand what I’m saying?

(Lynd continues to look at Caleb through the mirror)

(Sean leans back into his seat, and slumps down)

Lynd: We just…We just got to get to a phone and call your mother. That’s the…the whole (Lynd begins to talk with his hands) plan.

(Caleb looks down and leans back into his seat)

Sean: You really think this is happening everywhere, Dad?

(Lynd hesitates to answer)

Lynd: Of course not

Sean: That’s not a very clear answer.

Lynd: Look, an exit. Another gas station.

(Lynd pulls off the road, and parks on the side of the gas station. Lynd gets out of the car)

Lynd: I’m gonna get out, and call your mother. I’ll be right back. You guys need to stay in the car, okay. If this should happen again, we’ve got to be outta here fast.

(Lynd walks into the gas station store)

Gas Station Clerk: Hello sir

Lynd: Sign out there, said you’ve got payphones. Where are they?

Gas Station Clerk: Uh, over there. Behind the coffee machine.

Lynd: Here? (Points toward the coffee machine)

Gas Station Clerk: Yeah, right there.

Lynd: Thanks

(Lynd walks over to the payphone)

Gas Station Clerk: Can you believe this?

Lynd: What’s that?

Gas Station Clerk: It’s like the damn world is coming to an end. I was sitting here, and not 20 minutes ago, the damn road cracked. It cracked all the way over past that field. That was as far as I could see, anyway. You must have seen it. I saw you guys coming in on that road.

Lynd: Yeah, we came in on it. Lost our other party because of it.

Gas Station Clerk: That’s awful news. I’m really sorry.

Lynd: Thanks

(Lynd picks up the phone, and puts in change)

Gas Station Clerk: You know there’s no isolation, right?

Lynd: I’m sorry, what?

Gas Station Clerk: Isolation.

Lynd: I’m sorry, I don’t know what your talking about.

Gas Station Clerk: The “situation”

Lynd: Yeah?

Gas Station Clerk: It’s not isolated.

(Lynd slowly puts the phone onto the hook, and walks over to the clerk)

Lynd: What do you mean?

Gas Station Clerk: You haven’t heard?

Lynd: No, what are you talking about?

Gas Station Clerk: The entire east coast is wiped.

Lynd: What? Wiped, what? What does that mean?

Gas Station Clerk: About 2 hours ago. You don’t know about this?

Lynd: No I don’t know about this, I just told you that!

Gas Station Clerk: It’s been all over the news.

Lynd: Well..how did it just get “wiped” like that?

Gas Station Clerk: “They” say it was a tidal wave.

Lynd: Tidal wave? Who’s “they”?

Gas Station Clerk: The news reporters. That’s the word. They’ve been showing footage for the last 2 hours. Rumor has it that a tidal wave came in and washed out the east coast. “They” claim that the reason is because the earth’s elevation level has receded, and that is the cause for the ocean to spill inland.

Lynd: That wouldn’t be a tidal wave.

Gas Station Clerk: Well, it was the tidal wave that initially did it. But, the land’s elevation that made it possible.

Lynd: The land’s elevation receding? Wouldn’t that take millions of years?

Gas Station Clerk: See! That’s what I’m thinking! There’s no way what they’re saying is true. That shit would take forever to happen.

Lynd: Then what do you think is happening?

Gas Station Clerk: I think that it’s aliens or something man. Sort of crossed with global warming stuff.

(Lynd shakes his head)

Lynd: (smirks) There’s no way.

Gas Station Clerk: No, hear me out man! I’m serious about this. Sort of like aliens, but also like global warming. Kind of like “War Of The Worlds” meets “The Day After Tomorrow”


Lynd: But, you just compared a real-life catastrophic event to two mediocre movies. Actually no, War Of The Worlds was alright. Good effects, but it’s not real. It’s just a movie.

Gas Station Clerk: Say what you will, but that’s the best explanation your gonna hear.

Lynd: What about The President?

Gas Station Clerk: The President?

Lynd: Yeah, “The President”….Of the..United States?

Gas Station Clerk: Oh, yeah he’s alright. They got him out before anything happened. Air Force One, and all that stuff.

Lynd: That’s good. How far inland did it go?

Gas Station Clerk: They say it came in through all the states on the east coast. It stayed in the back half of them, but that’s still a lot of land.

(Lynd looks in surprise)

Lynd: Alright, well I’ve got to make this call.

Gas Station Clerk: Nice talking to you.

(Lynd walks to the payphone, and puts in the change. The phone rings several times, and then it is picked up)

Elizabeth: Hello?

Lynd: Elizabeth?

Elizabeth: Who’s this?

Lynd: It’s me

Elizabeth: You? You made it? Oh my god, I thought you guys were dead.

Lynd: No we’re alright. The kids are fine, everyone is fine.

Elizabeth: It’s so good to hear from you. Where are you guys?

Lynd: We’re in Indiana, about a half-hour from Indianapolis.

Elizabeth: You guys have driven all the way from New York?

Lynd: No, we went to Dayton after New York, and had to leave the day we arrived.

Elizabeth: Dayton is gone.

Lynd: Yeah, I know. We barely got out of there.

Elizabeth: Where are you going to go.

Lynd: I’m bringing the kids to San Francisco.

Elizabeth: Aren’t you supposed to be going overseas?

Lynd: I was, but then all of this happened. Now I don’t even know if anyone is still there.

Elizabeth: Alright, well how long till you get here?

Lynd: Well, it’s about 5:30, and I’m planning on driving through the night.

Elizabeth: Alright, well I guess I’ll just wait here for you?

Lynd: Yeah, but you need to be prepared to leave very fast. In fact, I almost think it would be better if you left California.

Elizabeth: Leave? I can’t just leave. I’ve got Tom here, I’ve got work.

Lynd: I think you and Tom should grab your things, and get out of California.

Elizabeth: That wont work. Why does it make sense to leave? Your already on the road, and it’s much easier if you guys come here.

Lynd: Well, you know what’s happened to the east coast, right?

(Gas Station Clerk shouts from the counter)

Gas Station Clerk: Aliens.

(Lynd adjusts the phone so he can hear better)

Elizabeth: Who was that?

Lynd: Nobody

Elizabeth: Where are you?

Lynd: At a gas station payphone.

Elizabeth: Why are you on a payphone, where’s your phone?

Lynd: Uh……it’s in my pocket. The…uh..cell phone tower is down, from the….the uh….earthquake.

Elizabeth: What were we talking about?

Lynd: I was asking if you knew that the entire east coast had been wiped from water. That was my reasoning from why you and your husband need to get out of California.

(The camera cuts to Lynd’s car, where Sean and Caleb are sitting)

Sean: What do you think is taking him so long?

Caleb: He’s probably still talking to mom.

Sean: You think they’ll fight again?

Caleb: Probably not. Do you?

Sean: I don’t know. I know that if he’s around her too much, they usually get into it, though.

Caleb: Yeah, I guess your right.

Sean: Why did you say “f*ck”?

Caleb: What?

Sean: Back there, on the highway. Why did you say it?

Caleb: I was mad.

Sean: Yeah, but you don’t get mad.

Caleb: Sometimes.

Sean: No, you never get mad. I can’t remember you ever getting mad about anything.

Caleb: Well, I was mad because of what happened, and everything that has happened.

Sean: Caleb, you can’t get mad like that.
Caleb: Why?

Sean: Because it’s important that you don’t. You have that special way about you, you know? You sort of cheer people up, in the worst of times. If you get mad like that, what are the rest of us going to do? I think that’s why dad got so mad at you.

Caleb: Okay, Sean

(The camera cuts to Lynd who is starting to argue on the phone)

Elizabeth: Yes, I know about the east coast! But, I don’t think it’s going to happen here! Okay!

Lynd: Alright, why don’t we just calm down here, okay? Look, I’ve got to go. We’re going to be on the road constantly until we get there, alright?

Elizabeth: Okay, I guess I’ll see you in a couple days, or less.

Lynd: Alright. But seriously, just pack something in case you have to leave in a hurry.

Elizabeth: Alright, I’ll have Tom throw some things together.

Lynd: Okay, see you in a couple days.

Elizabeth: Alright, Bye.

(Lynd hangs up the phone and walks to the door. He grabs an atlas on the way out. He makes his way to the car, and there is another deep rumble. Lynd rushes to the car, and opens the door)

Lynd: We’re outta here! I think it’s back.

(The rumbling stops, and it’s silent. Lynd looks around, unsure of what is happening. Suddenly the gas bursts out of the pumps, onto people and their cars. Lynd quickly backs up his car onto the road. A spark ignites, and the people are engulfed in flame)

Voice #1: Someone dial the cops!!!

(The camera slowly pans onto Lynd and his sons sitting in the car, while it’s stopped on the road)

Sean: Maybe we should get out and help

Voice #2: (muffled voice) I think this guy is alive!

Lynd: How are we gonna be able to help that?

(The camera shows the people scrambling around the gas pumps from Lynd’s car. There is fire everywhere)

Lynd: Lets g--

(Another explosion of fire engulfs the people who are scrambling around, helping the victims. Shrill screams are heard from them)

(Lynd pulls the car away, while Sean and Caleb sit still and shocked. The camera is focused on Lynd’s face, and as he speeds off, a quick tear drops from his eye. The camera cuts away quickly)

(The camera cuts to dusk, as Lynd is driving along the road. They pass along a housing complex)

Sean: What do you suppose is happening there?

Lynd: I think they’re evacuating.

Caleb: Is it going to happen again? Here?

Lynd: I don’t know, Caleb. But, we’re staying on the road either way.

(Lynd leans over to Sean’s window to get a better look)

Sean: Look out!

(Lynd turns and slams on the breaks. A group of people are standing in the road and walk to his car, holding signs. Lynd rolls down his window, as one of the men approaches)

Religious Fanatic #1: Have you accepted Jesus as you Lord and Savior?

Lynd: Uh, who….What is going on here?

Religious Fanatic #2: How about your sons? Have they?

Lynd: I don’t know what your talking about. Why are you standing in the middle of the road?

Religious Fanatic #1: Could you please step out of the car, sir?

Lynd: We’re in kind of a hurry, I haven’t really got the ti---

Religious Fanatic #3: THIS….it will only take a second.

(Lynd looks at the men hesitantly, and steps out of the vehicle)

Lynd: You guys stay in the car, okay?

(Sean and Caleb nod)

Lynd: Alright, what is going on here?

Religious Fanatic #1: We are but brothers of Christ, and are wondering if you are one aswell.

Lynd: You made me get out my car…for that.

Religious Fanatic #1: (smiling) Yes.

Lynd: I’m sorry, I’m…not.

Religious Fanatic #2: Could you please take off your jacket, sir?

Lynd: What? Why?

Religious Fanatic #1: Just, do it for us, please sir?

(Lynd slowly takes off his jacket, and throws it in the car. One of the men falls to his knees, and begins to pray)

Lynd: What is he doing?

Religious Fanatic #1: He’s um, afraid of guns. They are evil to him. I’m afraid that he wont be able to continue, unless you take it off.

Lynd: This is taking longer than a second.

Religious Fanatic #2: It will not take as long, if you put down the gun!!!

(Lynd looks at the man)

Lynd: Why are you yelling? Why did he just yell?

Religious Fanatic #1: You are making this most aggravating sir. I’d like it very much if you just did what we said.

(Lynd takes off his shoulder holster, and throws it in the car)

Lynd: Is that better? Now what?

Religious Fanatic #1: (smiling) Now we need your car, sir.

Lynd: Wh--

(One of the men hits Lynd over the head with a bat, and the rest crowd around the car. They begin to break windows, and get inside. Lynd falls to the ground, unconscious)

Sean: What the hell are you guys doing? What is wrong with you people!

(The leading fanatic gets into the driver’s seat. He grabs Lynd’s jacket and gun. Sean grabs the fanatic’s hand, and wrestles for the gun. The man fights with Sean, and Sean starts kicking him. Sean manages to pull the gun out of the holster, and accidentally fires a couple rounds. The man slumps down. Sean turns around to the two men who are in the back seat. One of the men grabs Caleb)

Religious Fanatic #4: You wouldn’t hurt man of….God, now would you?

(Sean slowly aims the gun, and squints his eyes. He fires a shot. The shot goes through the man’s head, and out of the rear window)

(The other man grabs Caleb, and Sean turns to him. Sean’s hand’s are shaking. Sean takes aim. Hands grab Sean, and pull him out of the car. Sean fires a shot at the man holding Caleb, but misses. The man who pulled him out grabs the gun, and empties the magazine. He tosses away the gun, and starts to punch Sean in the face. The man is very large and muscular, and Sean starts to yell. The fanatic who was holding Caleb, crawls up to the driver’s seat, and lets out the dead body)

(The man continues to punch Sean, and Sean yells. The man is suddenly hit from behind by Lynd. The group of fanatics begins to yell, as Lynd wrestles with the man. Sean starts crawling around and looking for the gun. Lynd and the man continue to wrestle. The man grabs Lynd’s neck, and punches him several times in the face. He throws Lynd down by the car)

(Lynd is slow to get up. The man picks up a shard of glass, and crawls over to Lynd. The man grabs Lynd and flips him over)

Lynd: f*ck you.

(Sean continuously searching, finds the gun and aims it at the man. The man now has his arms raised, and is about to strike Lynd. Sean’s hands begin to shake again, as he aims the weapon. He squints his eyes and fires)

(The shot goes through the man, and his body falls onto Lynd. Lynd pulls the dead body off of himself)

(The remaining fanatics gather, and start to approach Lynd and Sean. One of the fanatics is still in the car with Caleb, and trying to start it)

Lynd: Gun! Gun! Sean!

(Sean quickly tosses the empty gun to Lynd, and Lynd loads the clip. The fanatic finally starts the car, and tries to drive off. Lynd aims the gun and shoots him in the head. The man slumps down on the steering wheel)

(Sean is suddenly tasered in the neck, by one of the fanatics. He starts to yell and scream from the pain. The group of fanatics surround Sean.)

Lynd: Hey! Get the f*ck outta here!

(Lynd walks over the the group, calmly firing his gun. A couple of the fanatics fall to the ground. The fanatics turn around and run)

(Lynd rushes over to Sean)

Lynd: Are you alright?

Sean: (grunting) Yeah, who…who were those people?

Lynd: Goddamn religious nutcases.

[Dale]

Sean: (grunting) I think we should get out of here.

Lynd: I think your right.

(Lynd and Sean make their way to the car. Lynd opens the driver’s door, and pulls out the dead body. Sean climbs into the passenger seat, and they speed off)

(The camera cuts to Lynd driving)

Lynd: Is everybody okay?

Caleb: I’m okay, Dad.

Lynd: (looking in his mirror) That’s good buddy. You just hang in there, okay? You were really brave back there.

Lynd: (turns to Sean) You okay, Sean?

(Sean is looking at his hands, which have blood on them)

Lynd: Hey. It’s okay, Sean. It’s okay.

Sean: I killed….those people.

Lynd: Hey. You did what you had to do, Sean. To save your family. There’s no wrong in what you did, back there.

(Sean turns from his father, and looks out the window. Lynd sighs, and continues to drive)

Caleb: What did mom say?

Lynd: What are you talking about, Caleb?

Caleb: Mom, on the phone. What did she say?

Lynd: Oh, I forgot to tell you guys. Mom is okay, nothing has happened in San Francisco.

Caleb: So that’s where we’re going?

Lynd: Yes it is, and then we’re going to Bend.

Caleb: Bend? Where is that?

Lynd: It’s in Oregon.

Caleb: But Mom lives in California.

Lynd: Yes, but we’re picking her up, and then going to Bend.

Caleb: Picking her up?

Lynd: Yes we are.

Caleb: What is in Oregon?

(Lynd tries to lighten the mood with a couple jokes about Oregon. Sean is still looking out the window)

Lynd: (laughs) No, I’m just joking Caleb. We’re going there to meet my friend Ethan.

Caleb: I’ve never heard of him.

Lynd: Ethan is a good old buddy of mine from high school. He’s was always a smart kid and getting good grades. Wasn’t the best with the ladies, though.

Caleb: Why are we meeting him?

Lynd: Well, Ethan’s grades were surprisingly good. And he ended up getting a great job. Like I said he’s a really smart guy, and knows a lot of important things. I think maybe he might know what’s happening.

Caleb: Like “what’s” what’s happening?

Lynd: Yeah.

Caleb: How do you think he would know?

Lynd: I don’t know, but I know that he was always great at figuring stuff out. He was a bit crazy too, though.

Caleb: How was he crazy?

Lynd: I don’t know. People thought he was suicidal for a period of time. I don’t think he ever was. He isn’t now, for sure.

Caleb: What is he like now?

Lynd: Now, he’s sort of like one of those conspiracy theory people. I’m sure you don’t know anything about that. Bottom line, he’s a bit out there. Thinks the government is responsible for a lot of things. This, I’m sure he knows the government has nothing to do with. That would simply be impossible.

Caleb: Okay.

Lynd: I also forgot to tell you guys. There was another disaster.

(Sean sighs)

Lynd: Apparently the elevation of the east coast receded, and a wave caused the ocean to spill inland. No one knows how it receded, but it did. I don’t know for sure how far inland it came, but I know that it didn’t go farther than the east coast states. But I also know that, that won’t happen where Mom is.

Caleb: You do?

Lynd: Yes, I do. Not gonna happen to her, because the pacific is formed different. Land is too high, and it can’t be receded. Too strong.

Caleb: That’s good.

(Sean shakes his head)

Lynd: Sean.

(Sean turns to him. Lynd shakes his head for Sean to stay quiet. Sean slumps back down, and continues to look out the window. The camera pans away from the car, and focuses on the sun, as it sets)

(The camera cuts to nighttime, and Lynd is still driving. Sean is still looking out the window, and Caleb is still sitting)

Lynd: Hey, I think you guys should get some sleep.

Sean: I don’t feel like sleep.

Lynd: Yeah, but you need to save your energy, Sean. After all that has happened today, you need to sleep.

Caleb: I’ll sleep, Dad.

Lynd: Thanks Caleb.

Sean: (tiredly) When was the last time you slept?

Lynd: I don’t know, Sean.

Sean: Dayton?

(Lynd shakes his head “no“)

Sean: New York?

Lynd: I think so. The night you guys came up. I think that was the last time.

Sean: Why don’t you sleep?

Lynd: Because, we’ve got to get to California very fast, and I need to drive.

Sean: I could drive.

Lynd: You sound tired as it is. And besides, after that last….interruption, I want to stay behind the wheel.

(Time passes as Lynd continues to drive and Caleb falls asleep)

Sean: Dad?

Lynd: Yeah Sean?

Sean: Who were those people?

Lynd: I told you. They were religious crazy people.

Sean: Why did they want our car?

Lynd: They probably didn’t have one, and were trying to get far away.

Sean: Were they just ass holes?

Lynd: Partly. But, I think they were scared. Everybody is just scared right now, Sean.

Sean: You?

(Lynd nods)

Sean: I never thought that anything like this could happen. You know? I don’t think I’ve ever felt this way in my entire life. I’ve never been so confused, worn out, and awake at the same time. It’s like….everything that was one way, isn’t. And now everything is going to shit.

Lynd: You know, one time your mother. She came to me one night. I was too drunk and stupid enough, to be drunk and stupid around your mother. I think she felt the same way that you do right now. I still miss her from time to time. Had I not acted like that….Had I acted like a real man, things would’ve probably been better.

Sean: Yeah, but you divorced her.

Lynd: Doesn’t mean I didn’t love her, Sean. Doesn’t mean I don’t love you. You know, you’ve always had that contradictory attitude. I think you get it from her. I like that quality. It keeps things interesting.

Sean: What do you think is happening?



Lynd: I don’t know. For the first time in my life, I think I’m the same level of knowledge as everyone else in the world. This just can’t be, you know? This sort of thing isn’t possible.

Sean: What are we gonna do?

Lynd: I’m going to do whatever I can to keep you and Caleb safe. We’ve come this far, and lived through more than most people. Damned if I let anything happen to you guys.

Sean: I’ll do the same for you, Dad.

Lynd: You already did, Sean. You saved us all today. It was that contradictory attitude, that stood up for us. Even when I was unable to do anything.

Sean: You know, I wouldn’t have known what to do, if you hadn’t taught me.

Lynd: Your talking about the gun?

Sean: Yeah. If you hadn’t spent that time teaching me how to load it and unload it, I wouldn’t have known there was still a bullet in the gun.

Lynd: You did do really good back there, Sean.

Sean: (relieved) I was shaking when I pulled the trigger.

(Sean sniffs and a tear drips out of his eye)

Lynd: But, you still did great.

Sean: (smiles) Thanks Dad.

Lynd: Hey.

(Sean looks Lynd in the eye)

Lynd: You guys are going to be just fine. I won’t let anything happen to you. You understand? Nothing will happen to you. I promise on my life that I will take care of you and Caleb.

Sean: Okay.

Lynd: Will you get some rest now, Sean? It would make my job that much easier.

Sean: Okay.

(Sean reclines his seat, and closes his eyes)

Sean: Goodnight Dad.

Lynd: Goodnight Sean.

(The camera fades, as Lynd drives)


Day +2


(The camera fades in, and Sean and Caleb are asleep. A hand starts moving his shoulder)

Lynd: Sean wake up. Wake up, Sean.

(Sean’s eyes slowly open, and he sits up)

Sean: Where are we?

Lynd: We’re in Colorado, about a half hour from Dove Creek.

Sean: Colorado? Jesus, how fast were you driving?

Lynd: Well, you guys fell asleep at like 8:30 last night. It’s about 10 right now, so that’s over 13 hours of driving.

Sean: But still.

Lynd: The roads were strangly quiet. And I was driving pretty fast. The reason I got you up, is because you guys haven’t been out of the car for awhile, and we’re at a gas station.

Sean: (yawns) Okay, I’ll go to the bathroom real quick. Caleb, get up.

(Caleb’s eyes open, and he leans up)

Caleb: What’s going on? Where are we?

Lynd: We’re in Colorado, at a gas station. Do you need to get something to eat, or go to the bathroom?

Caleb: Yeah, I do. I’ll be right back.

(Caleb and Sean walk into the gas station, and go to the bathroom)

(Lynd buys a few snacks and drinks from the clerk, and walks back to the car. Sean walks back to the car, and gets in)

Lynd: Sean, they say it’s gonna get worse.

Sean: Who?

Lynd: The news. I was just in there listening, and they said it might get worse. Don’t tell Caleb, okay? I don’t want him worried about your mother.

Sean: Alright, but what are we gonna do?

Lynd: Plans are the same. We’re going to San Francisco, and getting your mom.

Sean: Okay.

Lynd: Here comes Caleb. Remember what I said.

(Caleb walks over to the car, and gets in the back seat)

Caleb: What are we gonna do?

Lynd: Same thing, Caleb. We gotta get to San Francisco right away.

(Lynd starts the car up, and they drive away. They drive on the road for hours, and the camera cycles through shots of what they are doing. Sean is picking at his nails, Caleb is in the back seat looking out the window. Lynd is driving, and frequently looking in his mirror. The camera pans onto a welcome sign into Nevada, as they drive past. The camera continues to show what Lynd, Sean, and Caleb are doing, as more hours pass)

(Lynd slows the car down)

Sean: What are you doing?

(Lynd is looking out the window)

Sean: Dad!

(Lynd looks at Sean)

Sean: What are you doing?

Lynd: Look at that.

Sean: What is it?

Lynd: What was it?

Sean: What do you mean?

Lynd: I was just looking at the atlas. And by our location, we should be going by Tonopah. It’s on the map, but it’s not there.

Sean: Do you think?…

(Lynd nods)

Sean: Why is this happening everywhere? Tonopah? What the hell is in Tonopah?

Lynd: I think it’s random, Sean.

(Lynd drives his car past the destroyed town)

Sean: Unreal.

Lynd: What a wasted land.

(Lynd continues driving)

Lynd: What time is it?

Sean: Uh, 8 P.M.

Lynd: What? It can’t be that late.

Sean: Oops, sorry. You haven’t changed your clock. It’s still set to Dayton. Uh, that means that it’s 5 P.M. We’ve been driving for 7 hours.

Lynd: Okay, on the atlas it says that we are approaching California. We’re getting close.

Caleb: How far will it be?

Lynd: I’m not sure, Caleb. San Francisco is a big city, and I’m sure it will take awhile to get in. Of course, you live there so I’m sure you already know.

Caleb: I hope Mom is okay.

Lynd: I’m sure there’s nothing to worry about. I’m sure mom is absolutely fine.

Caleb: I hope your right

Lynd: You wont have to hope for long. We’re getting close.

Sean: Once we get into California, we’ve still got quite a drive to San Francisco.

Lynd: I know, but I think we’ll get there before midnight.

Caleb: Is that the sign?

(Lynd looks off into the distance, and sees the welcome sign)

Lynd: That’s it. We’re coming up on it.

Sean: Good.

(They drive past the welcome sign, and Sean and Caleb seem relaxed. About an hour passes, as they continue driving)

Caleb: Will Tom go with us?

(The car is silent)

Lynd: Uh.

(Sean leans forward and looks at Lynd)

Lynd: Tom? Uh….I think he’s got work.

Sean: Work? What are you talking about.

Caleb: Yeah, what are you talking about?

Lynd: I think he’s working, he wont be able to leave with your mother and us.

Sean: You don’t want him to come, do you?

Lynd: It’s not like that, Sean.

Sean: Mom, doesn’t know we’re leaving, does she? She doesn’t know that you plan on taking her with you.

Caleb: She doesn’t?

Sean: No, she doesn’t Caleb. He’s just been telling us all along.

Lynd: Sean, can we just drop it?

Sean: No, we can’t just drop this. Mom would never just leave Tom in San Francisco. Especially when she knew that something could happen there.

Lynd: Okay Sea--

Sean: You!…Didn’t tell her did you! You didn’t tell her that you were worried about something happening in San Francisco. You were worried something would happen there, like it did in the east.

Caleb: I thought you said that nothing could happen to the pacific side.

Sean: He lied to you, Caleb. He said that to make you feel better. He also didn’t tell you that he heard that it was going to get worse. He didn’t want me to tell you, because he didn’t want to make you worry.

(Lynd looks at Sean)

Sean: What else exactly, haven’t you been filling us in on? I think I’d like to know.

Lynd: Nothing. And I only didn’t tell you, for your benefit Caleb. I’ve only been trying to help. That’s why we’re going so fast to get to San Francisco.

Sean: We don’t need any of THIS kind of help. Your not doing anything for us, Lynd.

Lynd: Well, why don’t you just get some of Tom’s help.

Sean: Well, I would. But unfortunately mom made me go to New York, and now I’m f'n stuck with you!

(Lynd turns to Sean, and grabbs his mouth)

Lynd: You shut your goddamn mouth! You hear me? The shit coming out of your mouth, I can’t even understand.

Caleb: Stop! Get off of him!

(Lynd pulls away from Sean, and continues driving. Tears start running from Sean’s face)

Sean: You are so pathetic. I was able to ignore it yesterday, because of all the stuff happening, but you really are pathetic.

Lynd: Shut up.

Sean: I mean, anyone who just grabs their son and screams curse words in their face, has some serious issues.

Lynd: Shut up, Sean!

Sean: And your sitting back, hiding behind these disasters, these catastrophes. And your trying to make yourself a father figure out of them. Little did you know, that real fathers. Real good fathers died, in your place. And that it should have been you from the get go, to die in New York.

(Lynd swings his arm, and hits Sean in the face. Sean flinches after he’s hit. His nose starts to bleed. Sean begins grabbing the door handle, as Lynd drives)

Lynd: What are you doing?

Sean: I’m getting out of the f'n car, that’s what I’m doing.

Lynd: Stay in your damn seat.

Sean: Why? You don’t give a shit about me. You never did. Caleb can stay with you for all I care. But it would be his loss.

Lynd: THIS, is not happening. You are not leaving Sean. You will get yourself killed.

Sean: Yeah, well it’s better than being around you.

Lynd: You don’t mean this, Sean. Just stop talking right now.

Sean: Oh yes I do. I gotta tell you. These disasters have taught me one thing. Oh yeah they have! They’ve taught me that you just can’t sit back and take shit forever. Some day, you’ve just got to stand up for yourself.

Lynd: Your not standing up for anything, Sean. You don’t even know what your talking about. You don’t even know who you are saying these things to.

Sean: Well maybe I would, if you hadn’t left. Pretty hard to get to know someone, when they just leave, you know?

(Sean reaches for the door handle again, and Lynd grabs him by the neck)




Lynd: You wanna get yourself killed! Open the f'n door! No more wiseass shit, open the damn door! You wanna die? Out there is death kid, and it’s sitting there waiting. Go out there then, alright? Me, I don’t care. After hearing some of the stuff you’ve said, I’m not sure whether your even my son. We are in a crisis here Sean, and we’ve got to make the best of it! Just because everything is going crazy, doesn’t mean we have to too. We’ve got you, me, and Caleb. Soon to have your mom. Now Tom. Tom can go with us if he pleases. But, I doubt he will. That is why your mom has to come with us. If something happens there, I don’t want your mother dead because of it!

(Lynd lets go of Sean’s neck)

Lynd: Understand?

(Caleb slumps back in his seat)

Caleb: What are we doing? Why are we doing this? We’re fighting with each other. In the worst time, no less. We can’t do this to each other.

(Lynd turns around)

Lynd: I don’t know Caleb.

(Lynd turns to Sean)

Lynd: Now I know neither of us meant the things we just said. So for now, lets shake, and just promise not to say those things. I’m sorry for hitting you, Sean. It was the wrong thing to do. And…You were right about some of those things. Some of the things I have done are pathetic. But, there’s nothing I can do about them. I’ve just got to make the best of what I’ve got, and try to focus on the future.

(Sean stares out the window)

Lynd: Your listening right?

Sean: Yes.

Lynd: Promise? At least for now?

(Sean nods. Lynd sighs, and looks down)

Caleb: Dad! Stop!

(Lynd turns and slams on the breaks. The car skids to a stop)

Lynd: Oh no.
(The camera pans around Lynd’s head. When it gets completely around, the ocean is visible through the windshield)

Lynd: We’re too late.

Caleb: Oh my god, she’s dead.

Sean: I…this…what..do we do now? You think maybe we hit a lake, or something? I mean, this can’t be it. This just can’t be.

Lynd: Look around Sean. It’s the goddamn ocean. It stretches for miles.

Sean: Well check the map again!

(Lynd reaches down, and grabs the map. His hands are shaking as he unfolds it)

Lynd: Hey, do you guys see a mile marker, or a sign anywhere?

Caleb: No, but how long have we been in California.

Lynd: Only about an hour, or a bit more.

Caleb: Then there’s no way, we’re at the end. Oh my god, she really is dead!

Lynd: Maybe she isn’t. Maybe it just flooded here. San Francisco could still be okay.

(Lynd gets out of the car. Sean and Caleb get out aswell. Lynd walks over to the water, and looks out to the horizon)

Lynd: I don’t understand this. I don’t understand this at all you guys.

Sean: What can we do?

Lynd: Wait! I’ve got an idea. We can still find out if something happened to San Francisco. We’ll just go to the nearest town, and check at a gas station. I’m sure they’ve got the TV running like everyone else. Meanwhile, do you guys have her cell number?

Sean: Yeah, I know it. I see where your going with this.

Lynd: Alright, lets get out of here fast, and get to a town.

(They run back into the car, and Lynd goes over the map)

Lynd: There’s a town about 25 miles up the road!

(Lynd turns the car around, and they speed off. The camera cuts to them arriving in the gas station parking lot)

Lynd: Alright guys, come on. Lets go inside.

(They get out of the car, and run inside. Lynd and Sean run to a payphone, and Caleb goes to the counter)

Caleb: Sir, could you turn that up please?

(Lynd and Sean are putting quarters into the payphone)

Lynd: All right, you know the number?

Sean: Yeah, uh it’s 245-555-4566. Don’t forget to push 1.

(Lynd begins to dial the number)

(The camera cuts to Caleb)

Caleb: Oh god. Oh no.

(Caleb runs over to Lynd and Sean)

Caleb: It’s destroyed! It’s destroyed! Is she dead!

(Sean falls to his knees, and sits back on the wall. His head in his hands. Lynd hangs his head)

Lynd: Oh no.

(The phone quickly begins to ring)

Lynd: It’s ringing!

(Sean quickly gets up, and leans in close to the payphone)

Caleb: She’s not dead!

(The phone continues to ring)

Lynd: Hang on.

(The phone rings again)

Lynd: Come on.

(The phone is picked up)

Lynd: Hello? Hello? Elizabeth? Is that you? Are you alright?

Elizabeth: Hello? Lynd?

Lynd: She’s alive!

(Sean and Caleb cheer, and hug each other)

Lynd: Elizabeth, where are you?

Elizabeth: I’m in California, about to go up to Seattle.

Lynd: Seattle? What are you talking about? The whole west coast is gone, just like the east!

Elizabeth: Seattle is still there. I’m going there as fast as I can get there. I just spoke with my sister, and she’s gonna give us a place to stay.

Lynd: I don’t understand. How could it not be destroyed?

Elizabeth: I don’t know. It just isn’t. I just spoke with her.

Lynd: What made you leave San Francisco?

Elizabeth: Tom made me. After he had heard what you said, he didn’t want me in the city.

Lynd: Where is Tom now? Is he with you?

Elizabeth: He stayed in the city, in case you guys showed up.

Lynd: Oh no.

Elizabeth: You need to get to me Lynd. As fast as possible. You’ve got to get Sean and Caleb to me.

Lynd: Alright, I undestand. How will I be able to reach you? We don’t have a cellphone.

Elizabeth: My cellphone is dying. I’m not going to be able to use it. I’ve got about a minute or so more. What I need you to do is to give me that payphone number. I’m going to stop at a payphone and call it. But, you guys have to wait there, okay?

Lynd: Alright. Sean, go ask the gas station guy what this payphone number is. Tell him it’s very important.

Sean: Okay.

(Sean runs off to the counter)

Caleb: I’ll go with him.

(Caleb follows)

Elizabeth: Are you still there, Lynd?

Lynd: Yeah I’m still here.

Elizabeth: It might take me awhile to get to a payphone. I’m out in the middle of nowhere right now.

Lynd: It’s no problem. We’ll just stay here.

(Sean runs back)

Sean: I got the number! Here it is!

(Sean hands Lynd a piece of paper with the number written. It slips from his hand, and falls onto the ground. It lands in a puddle of soda)

Lynd: Dammit!

(Lynd grabs it, and prepares to read it. It’s smudged, and difficult to read)

Lynd: Alright are you ready Elizabeth?

Elizabeth: Yeah, go ahead.

Lynd: Uh, its 5.….3.….0.…..2.….4.….1.…..9.…..8.….uh that’s a….6.….and a-----

(The phone dies. Lynd hears a dial tone)

Lynd: Elizabeth? Elizabeth? Dammit!

Sean: Did you give her the number?

Lynd: I didn’t get the last number to her!
Sean: Well, what are we gonna do?

Lynd: We’re gonna wait. And we’re gonna hope.

Caleb: But, she’s not gonna be able to get in touch with us!

Lynd: Doesn’t matter. We can’t leave here until we get the number.

Sean: Alright then…

(Lynd goes to a bench and sits down)

Lynd: You guys probably wanna grab a seat.

(The camera fades into the next shot, and Lynd is asleep. Sean and Caleb are asleep, aswell. The phone starts to ring, and Sean wakes up)

Sean: (tiredly) Phone…It’s her.

(Sean shakes Lynd)

Sean: Dad! Wake up Dad! The phone is ringing!

(Lynd’s eyes open, and he gets up. He walks over to the phone, as it rings. He picks it up)

Lynd: Hello?

Elizabeth: Lynd it’s me.

Lynd: How did you call us?

Elizabeth: I spent the last 9 attempts, and $3.15 trying to call you. I had to dial each number on a separate call to get hold of you.

Lynd: That’s what I thought you’d do. Alright, it’s like….8 o’ clock. We’ve got to get going right now. I need you to tell me the address, of your sister’s house.

Elizabeth: Okay. I’ve got it in this book. Hang on a second.

Lynd: No problem.

Elizabeth: Alright, her apartment is downtown. It’s a really small house, by the intersection of 4th Avenue, and Union Street. It’s about two buildings from Tully’s Coffee.
Lynd: Tully’s Coffee? Can’t you get me something better than that?

Elizabeth: I’m sorry, I can’t. The address is in the car. The only other thing I can tell you, is that the building next to her apartment building, has an arched entrance. Sort of like a walk-in entryway.

Lynd: Okay. If that’s all we’ve got, then we’ll make it with what we’ve got.

Elizabeth: When will you be here?

Lynd: Tomorrow. We’ve got to go to Bend, Oregon first.

Elizabeth: What for?

Lynd: I have a friend, that might know what is happening.

Elizabeth: How long will THAT take?

Lynd: It won’t take long. Listen, I’m pretty sure he knows what’s happening, alright. So could you do your best not worry.

Elizabeth: I’m not worried, I just think that this is an uneccesary risk.

Lynd: Like I said, I think he knows whats happening. This is definitely not uneccesary.

Elizabeth: Take care of Sean and Caleb, okay?

Lynd: I mean to. I’ll uh…see you tomorrow, then.

Elizabeth: Okay.

Lynd: Bye.

Elizabeth: Bye.

(Lynd hangs up the phone, and rushes out the door to the car. Sean and Caleb follow)

Caleb: What’s going on?

Lynd: We’ve got go. Bend, then Seattle.

(Lynd and his kids get into the car. He pulls out of the parking lot, and speeds down the road)

Lynd: I think we need to get on the highway, to get to Bend.
Sean: Alright then.

Caleb: What time do you think we’ll get there?

Lynd: Probably at 2 or 3 in the morning.

Sean: He’ll be asleep.

Lynd: I doubt if anyone sleeps at night these days, much less him.

Sean: That’s a good point.

(The car speeds on down the road, and merges onto the highway)

(The screen fades)


Day +3


(The camera fades in as Lynd pulls up into Ethan’s driveway. It is the middle of the night)

Lynd: Alright guys, do you wanna go in or stay in the car?

Sean: It’s gonna take awhile right?

Lynd: Yeah, that’s why I was thinking it would be better if you guys came in.

Caleb: I’ll go in too, Dad.

Lynd: Alright guys, lets go.

(Lynd gets out of the car and walks up to Ethan’s door. Ethan’s porch light is flickering. He hesitates to push the doorbell, and finally does it)

Sean: What is it?

Lynd: He’s just a very….cautious..person.

Sean: What do you mea---

(The door swings open, and a shotgun barrel is pressed towards Lynd’s face. Sean and Caleb try to grab Lynd, and get him out of the way)

Lynd: No, it’s oka---okay! It’s me, Ethan, it’s Lynd. From high school.

(The shotgun barrel lowers from Lynd’s face, and a man steps out of the doorway, and into the flickering light)

Ethan: You?…What are you doing HERE???

Lynd: I came to talk. We can talk, right?

Ethan: (smiles) Talk…talk is what we can do…

(Ethan slowly backs back into his doorway, and into the shadows. The click of his gun his heard, after he goes back into his house)

Sean: Dad? I think maybe we should get out of here.

Lynd: Trust me, Sean. Caleb?

Caleb: (nervously) Yeah?

Lynd: (nods) Trust me, okay?

Caleb: Okay.

(They walk into the doorway, Caleb and Sean following behind Lynd. A light suddenly turns on)

Ethan: (coughs) Hello.

(Ethan is in his underwear, and a robe)

Lynd: What the hell?

Ethan: Lynd, my good friend. What on earth are you doing here? Especially at this hour no less.

Lynd: We came to talk to you. We thought you’d be awake still.

(Ethan walks over and grabs a handfull of potato chips. He then sits on his couch)

Ethan: Oh, your boys can help themselves if their hungry.

Lynd: Were, you sleeping?

Ethan: Uh, no I wasn’t. I haven’t slept too much for a few days.

Lynd: Anything happen around here?

Ethan: Pretty close. Nothing here, but that water came about 60 or 70 miles west.

Lynd: It covered the whole west coast, like it did the east?

Ethan: Yeah, except for the top of Washington.

(Lynd walks over a chair, and sits across from Ethan)

Lynd: Hey, do you mind if they get something to drink?

Ethan: Not at all man. You boys are welcome to help yourselves to whatever you want. Pepsi, Coke, Beer, Sprite, Juice, Milk, whatever you guys want.

(Caleb and Sean walk into the kitchen)

Lynd: That’s where we’re headed.

Ethan: Where’s that?

Lynd: Seattle, up in the part that’s still there of Washington.

Ethan: Probably a safe area, I’d say.

Lynd: Why do you say that? What makes it any safer than other places?

Ethan: Well, I’ve been looking at the patterns of these disasters, and I’m finding that the ground seems to be going through massive erosion changes where the disasters occur. New York, East Coast, West Coast. Dayton, however was a little different.

Lynd: Yeah, I don’t know what that was. It just sort of blew up.

Ethan: Were you there?

Lynd: New York, and Dayton both.

Ethan: Jesus Christ. (leans back into his couch) It’s amazing your even alive.

Lynd: Yeah, well we had some other…minor problems on our way here aswell.

Ethan: Well to tell you the truth, you’re the last person I’d expect to come here.

Lynd: Who’s the first?

Ethan: ….Government people…

Lynd: Is that why the warm welcome?

Ethan: Sorry about that. I’ve been sort of worried lately.

Lynd: Do you know something.

Ethan: Yes, I do.

Lynd: What?

Ethan: What do you want to know?

Lynd: Something…

Ethan: Something?

Lynd: Something more than the shit they keep saying on the TV.

Ethan: Well, I can tell you what it is, who is behind it, and what happened to the person who designed it.

Lynd: “It”?…

Ethan: “It”…is a weapon.

Lynd: A weapon?

Ethan: Yes.

Lynd: How could it be a weapon?

(Caleb and Sean walk into the room and sit down. Ethan rumages through scattered papers, and pulls out a packet)

Ethan: This is the blueprints to “Operation: Ensured Peace” It’s a government operation, set up by a Richard Walstermyre.

Lynd: You can’t be serious? The government isn’t capable of something like this. Entire cities have been destroyed by waves, earthquakes, and collapsing ground!

Ethan: Yes the government is. But, I don’t think they did it to us on purpose.

Lynd: What do you mean?


Ethan: I’m about 99% sure that this plan was to be done to another country, to invoke fear, but to also make it seem that it wasn’t us.

Lynd: I don’t follow.

Ethan: Just read the prints. It’s all in there, and based on what that says, it explains all the strange disasters.

Lynd: I don’t understand how it would be used on us.

Ethan: Like I said, I don’t think they did this on purpose. At first I thought they did, but since the east and west coast is gone, I don’t think it is intentional.

Lynd: Well, if the government didn’t do it on purpose, why are you afraid?

Ethan: Because if they know that I know this, they are gonna probably kill me.

Lynd: This is ridiculous, I’m still having trouble believing it.

Ethan: Believe it.

Lynd: Well…how would it work?

Ethan: It manipulates geographical things like plate movement, and erosion, and elevation. That thing in New York was a sinkhole.

Lynd: But, aren’t sinkholes supposed to only be a few feet wide?

Ethan: A natural one is.

Lynd: Back to what I was asking. How does it pick and choose?

Ethan: At first, it takes out all military threats. Since it would most likely be used in a desert environment, that would prevent it from hurting too many innocient people.

Lynd: Yeah, but there have only been a few disasters, and there’s a LOT of military threats to it.

Ethan: That’s because the military cleared out. Most of the areas that were attacked are military spots, that were evacuated.

Lynd: What do you mean??? Millions of people were there.

Ethan: But, the military wasn’t.

Lynd: Wait. I think your on to something.

Ethan: Which part, exactly?

Lynd: Dayton has one of the largest Air Force bases in the country.

Ethan: Wright Patt.

Lynd: When we were driving out of there, we noticed it was deserted. If the military knew about it ahead of time, they could move out all the planes and equipment.

Ethan: Exactly.

Lynd: Well, why didn’t they warn anyone?

Ethan: They didn’t want to cause a scare, probably. They usually don’t warn us about things like this. Besides, they can blame it on what they would blame it on anyway….

Lynd: Natural disasters….

Ethan: Exactly.

Lynd: Well where are they putting all of their planes, and equipment? I mean, it can’t be easy to store that stuff.

[Dale]

Ethan: I don’t know. The other thing I don’t know is why it happened in New York. It’s one of the most populated cities.

Lynd: I was stationed there, in the Hudson river for a short period of time, but we were supposed to leave the day it happened.

Ethan: That must be it.

Lynd: How bout the east and west coasts? Why did it happen on such a large scale?

Ethan: I think it eroded the underground and lowered the elevation as they said on the news. I think that it happened so that it would wipe out all the ports and harbors. Makes it awful hard to sail in, when several miles of land are underwater.

Lynd: I can’t believe they would do this.

Ethan: They didn’t mean to. It just screwed up.

Lynd: Well, what are they gonna do about it?

Ethan: Well, so far they’ve just been tracking where it’s going to attack, and getting their military supplies out of the area.

Lynd: So…basically running.

Ethan: Pretty much.

Lynd: Well, they must have something planned, right?

Ethan: Well, in that packet there is an “Abort Operations” section. It gives details on an abort operation to take down the weapon. I don’t know if they plan to do this, or when.

(Lynd flips through the pages to the “Abort Operations” section)

Lynd: I don’t understand this, how would this even work?

Ethan: Well, I don’t expect you to understand what your reading, so I’ll just give you the summary.

Lynd: Okay, shoot.

Ethan: If they plan to do anything, it will be an air Counter-Attack.

Lynd: A large one?

Ethan: Doesn’t have to be extremely large. It’s not gonna be too big, because they’re gonna have to conserve aircraft.

Lynd: Lets back up. What does this weapon even look like?

Ethan: I know what your thinking, but it’s not that. It is an underground military base. Its out in the desert.


Lynd: How would planes even reach it? And why don’t they just destroy it from the inside? Shut it down, or whatever?

Ethan: They can’t. When the system malfunctioned, there was no way to override it’s actions. They made it fullproof, in case it got into the wrong hands.

Lynd: If this thing is a military base, how were they going to transport it overseas?


Ethan: “It’s” not a military base, “it is IN the military base….Underground. You understand?

Lynd: How can they take it down from the sky?

Ethan: Well that’s the problem. The base is completely protected by several Surface To Air Missile turrets. Th---there would be no way to penetrate it, because the planes would be avoiding the misseles the whole time.

Lynd: How….would they take it down?

Ethan: If…they were to get into a situation that they could take it down, they would have to bomb it. Missiles are no good, because it’s underground.

(Lynd leans forward, to Ethan)

Lynd: What would they bomb it with?

Ethan: (hesitates) A nuclear device.

Lynd: A nuke?

Ethan: Like I said, they’ve only got one shot. Better safe than sorry, I guess.

Lynd: There’s nothing safe about a nuclear explosion on our own soil.

Ethan: Hey, you wanted to know. All I’m telling you, is what I know.

Lynd: So if and when they do this, how hard a shot will it be?

Ethan: The shot, will be relatively easy. That’s not the tricky part.

Lynd: Whats the tricky part?

Ethan: Well, whatever drops it is dead for sure. The plane that drops it will be way to heavy and slow to make a run for it. I mean, under normal circumstances it wouldn’t be the case, but this plane is gonna have to be pretty low, to take it down.

Lynd: Then how is it tricky?

Ethan: The fighters are gonna have to haul ass the hell outta there, or they’re gonna die too. They would most likely have to be aware of what was going to happen before the bomb goes off, and well on their way in the other direction.

Lynd: But, they have to get through the SAMs too…
Ethan: Exactly.

Lynd: How would they do that?

Ethan: Getting some altitude, before the shockwave hits….and it will it…

Lynd: For sure?

Ethan: I’ve done the calculation a--a thousand times, there’s no way they can pick up enough speed to beat the shockwave, from their positioning. The only thing they can do is get the altitude, and ride it out.

Lynd: You mean like, try and get as far as they can before they crash?

Ethan: That’s exactly what I’m saying. The shockwave will surely break the fighters and shut down engine power. Their only chance is to glide to a crash, and hopefully land.

Lynd: Why doesn’t someone tell them?

Ethan: How is someone just gonna tell them? You wouldn’t even know about it if I hadn’t said anything.

Lynd: But, you’ve done the calculations. Do you think they know about this?

Ethan: I’m sure someone does, but I doubt they’ll tell the pilots.

Lynd: And when do you expect a mission like this to happen?

Ethan: Probably soon. It will only be a matter of time before “it” gathers coordinates as to where they’ve stashed their military supplies.

Lynd: If this is true….

Ethan: It has to be true, right? I mean look at the evidence. Your post in New York, Air Force Bases, east and west coasts.

Lynd: But, it doesn’t explain everything.

Ethan: What are you talking about?

Lynd: On our way to California, we ran by Tonopah. It was gone…

Ethan: Gone?

Lynd: Yeah, the whole city. Even though its not a very big city. Why would it do that?

Ethan: Ah! That’s it!

Lynd: What? I don’t understand. What’s it?

Ethan: Tonopah is where they stored a portion of the military supplies. The damn thing took it down, on this already short notice.

Lynd: Are you serious? It’s only been 2 days.

Ethan: This thing is moving at a much faster pace than I thought. I’m sure we can expect the Counter-Attack within a few days.

Lynd: You really think this is possible?

Ethan: It has to be…

Lynd: Right…it has to be.

(Lynd looks around, and looks at his kids)

Lynd: Well, what do you guys think?

Sean: It sounds pretty realistic to me…

Lynd: Caleb?

Caleb: I think he could be right, Dad.

Lynd: Alright. Well, I think it’s time we get a move on. We need to get to Seattle as quickly as possible.

Ethan: You guys can stay if you want. I’ve got an extra bedroom, and a fold out bed.

Lynd: Thank you, Ethan. Really, but we need to get to Seattle.

Ethan: Well, thanks for stopping by. And putting the pieces together, Lynd.

(Lynd and his kids walk out the door, and to the car)

Lynd: Be careful, Ethan.

Ethan: You too, Lynd. And remember what I said about that base.

(Lynd starts the car, and backs out of the driveway. Ethan waves as Lynd speeds off)

Ethan: (sips coffee) Goodbye, Lynd.

(The camera cuts to Lynd and the kids, in the car)

Caleb: What are we doing now?

Lynd: Now?…Now we’re going to Seattle to meet Mom. We’re gonna stay with her.

Caleb: What time will we get there?

Lynd: Well, what time is it now?

Sean: It’s about 5:30.

Lynd: Well, I’m probably wrong, but I’d say we’ll get there around 12:45 or 1 o’ clock.

Sean: I’m so tired. When is this gonna stop? I can’t take..running anymore. I’m so sick of running. Can’t this just be over?

Lynd: It’ll be over soon, Sean. Just go to sleep for now, and you too Caleb.

Caleb: Alright.

(Sean leans his seat back, and goes to sleep. Caleb lays down in the backseat)

(The camera pans onto the digital clock in the car. The car is very dark, as the clock reads “5:35”. The clock suddenly changes to “1:35“, and it gets light in the car. The camera pans up, and onto the dashboard. Revealing Seattle’s skyscrapers in the distance. The camera cuts to Lynd driving)

Lynd: Hey, hey guys wake up. Wake up, we’re here.

Sean: (tiredly) What time is it?

(Caleb starts to get up, in the backseat)

Lynd: It’s 1:35 right now, I was off by like 45 minutes.

Sean: Good timing.

Lynd: Had to go through some backroads, and get onto I-84, then merge onto I-90, because I-5 is half-gone.

Sean: Well, at least we’re here now.

(The camera cuts to a view of the highway, as Lynd’s car drives by. The camera cuts to Lynd driving through downtown streets)

Lynd: Do you guys have any idea where this place is?

Sean: I was here once or twice. You’re pretty close. Just take the next right, and then park in that garage.

Lynd: I have to pay for the garage, though.

(Sean says nothing, and turns to his Dad)

Sean: Pay?…Uh..you really think they’re gonna make you pay in this situation?

Lynd: I suppose that’s a good point.

(The camera cuts to a shot of the street, as Lynd’s car turns right at the stoplight. The car drives into public garage, and he parks it)

Lynd: Alright, Sean do you know how far?

(Sean gets out of the car, and walks to the end of the lot. He points his finger)

Sean: See that building? The one about a block away? It’s to the left, behind the one with that balcony.

Lynd: Yeah, I see it.

Sean: 3rd floor of that building.

Lynd: Okay, lets go.

(The camera cuts to Lynd walking in the street with Sean and Caleb. They make their way past Tully’s Coffee. They walk into the alley, with the arched entryway, and bang on the door. An old woman opens the door)


Lynd: Uh, we’re meeting someone. We need to get to the 3rd floor, please.

(The woman has a strange look on her face, but hesitantly moves aside. Lynd walks in after Sean and Caleb)

Lynd: Thank you very much, Mam.

(They walk into the elevator. Lynd cracks his neck)

Sean: Are you alright, Dad?

Lynd: I’m fine…just a little..anxious.

Sean: Okay.

(The elevator opens up, and they walk down the hallway)

Lynd: Well, which one does she live in?

Sean: I don’t know…uh..Caleb you know?

Caleb: No…

Lynd: Elizabeth!

(Lynd contines to shout, and walks down the hallway. The door opens behind him, and Elizabeth steps out)

Elizabeth: You..you guys made it.

(Lynd turns around)

Sean: Mom!

Caleb: Mom!

Elizabeth: Oh, my boys.

(Sean and Caleb run to Elizabeth, and hug her)

Elizabeth: (crying) I’m so glad to see you guys. I’m so glad your okay.

Sean: (crying) We are too, Mom.

Caleb: (crying) I love you.

Elizabeth: I love you guys, too.

(Lynd slowly walks over. Elizabeth walks to him)

Lynd: I…I..Ar--Are you alright?

Elizabeth: I am now, Lynd. Thank you so much for taking care of them.

Lynd: Something I should have done their whole lives…

(Elizabeth nods, and smiles)

Elizabeth: Thanks again, Lynd.

(Elizabeth walks over to the kids)

Elizabeth: Are you guys ready to go inside? I bet you really want some rest!

Sean: You wouldn’t believe it.

(Elizabeth and Caleb walk into the apartment, Sean stands at the doorway. He looks at Lynd. They both look at each other for a minute. Sean nods, and walks into the apartment. Lynd slowly walks into the apartment after Sean)

Elizabeth: So how was the road in?

Lynd: Better than it started.

Elizabeth: Oh yeah? How did it start?

Lynd: Uh…a bit too scenic for my taste.

Elizabeth: Oh, I see. Sean, Caleb, would you like something to eat?

Sean: That would be fantastic.

Caleb: Thanks Mom.

Elizabeth: Don’t worry, it’s no trouble. In times like this, we need to always be open to helping others…right Lynd?

Lynd: Um…exactly right, Elizabeth.

Lynd: What time will your sister be here?

Elizabeth: Oh, she’s just running out getting errands done.

Lynd: Alright. Well, is it okay if I get some sleep? I haven’t had a good sleep in like 4 days.

Elizabeth: Absolutely. Just go in that room to the left, and make yourself at home.

Lynd: Okay, thanks Elizabeth.

(Lynd walks into the room and closes the door)

(The camera quickly cuts to black)

(The subtle sound of a beating heart is heard. Heavy breathing is heard)

(Flashes of the apartment are seen. Lynd is walking around. Sean, Caleb, and Elizabeth are standing in a row at the doorway. They are very pale)

Sean: Save me Dad?

Elizabeth: Save me..Lynd? Would you, or not, Lynd?

Caleb: Can I see your gun, Dad?

(Caleb holds out his arm. Lynd looks at Caleb’s arm, then looks at his face. Blood is dripping down his face, and a bullet hole is in his forhead)

Caleb: (grinning) …Please?…

(Lynd looks in fright. A loud buzzing sound his heard. Lynd turns around, and looks out the window. A bright light appears on the horizon. Lynd is blinded at first, but finally can focus. A mushroom cloud is seen in the distance, and a shockwave is approaching)

Elizabeth: Save us…Dad?

Sean: Why won’t you save us!!!

(Lynd turns around)

Lynd: I..can’t…what is happening?

Caleb: Dad…Please?…

(Lynd turns back to the approaching shockwave)

(Lynd screams, as the shockwave rips through the apartment. The screen cuts to black)

(Quick cut in, as Lynd jumps out of bed. He is breathing heavy, and sweating)

Lynd: ..Oh god.. Only a dream.

(Lynd quickly gets out of the bedroom and goes into the kitchen. Caleb and Sean are in the small living room, watching TV)

Lynd: What time is it, Elizabeth?

Elizabeth: About 7 o’ clock. You must have been tired.

Lynd: Yeah. Haven’t slept well for awhile.

Elizabeth: Good news.

Lynd: What’s that?

Elizabeth: The President is making a speech.

Lynd: When?

Elizabeth: At 7:00. Supposedly, he is going to inform us of what is happening.

Lynd: Okay.

(Lynd walks into the living room)

Lynd: Hey, guys.

Sean: Hi Dad.

Lynd: Did you guys sleep at all?

Sean: I didn’t. Caleb fell asleep for like an hour.

Lynd: Alright….Hey Elizabeth, where is your sister?

Elizabeth: She’s not gonna be here.

Lynd: What? I thought you said she was running errands.

Elizabeth: I was just saying that. She’s not gonna be here. We probably shouldn’t talk about it. I’m sure you know the reason.

Lynd: …Hmm..alright… I uh..was hoping she had gotton over that…

Elizabeth: Yeah..she didn’t…Let’s just not talk about it, okay?

Lynd: Alright..

(The TV is heard)

TV News Reporter: We interrupt this regularly scheduled program, to give you the Presidential update, on our countries most formidable enemy. We now take you to Air Force One, where the President is staying.

(The TV cuts to The President)

The President: My fellow Americans. We are at a time of conflict in our own country. We do NOT face a foe on foreign grounds. We are not fighting for our independence. We are fighting for our lives. And many a life that we have lost, can not be replaced. They can not be compensated for. And most of all, they can not be forgotton. The enemy that we face is a cunning one. One that puts fear into the heart of freedom, and takes the lives of our young. This enemy is of our own creation…

Elizabeth: What? What is he saying?

Lynd: (looks at Elizabeth) Don’t be right…don’t be right, Ethan…

The President: Over the years, our country has developed new technology to triumph over the newest and most sophisticated of evils. We developed a system, that would be stored underground, that would be able to take out all military threats by manipulating the earth’s geographical patterns. This weapon was to be used in Iraq, to win the war on terror.

Lynd: Shit.

The President: The project has been in production for 18 years, and up and running for 7. After 9/11, we had a reason to use it, and speed up our production of it. It was under strict confidentiality for it’s entire existence, and only known by head members of our country’s Central Intelligence Agency. The machine was completely stable, and was sure to work fine, while keeping the civilian casualties at a minimum. About 6 months ago, the machine was in an accedent, and broken. When they had to re-wire it, the machine acted differently, and could not be destroyed. Several quiet operations to take down the machine commenced in the last 6 months, and they all failed. The idea behind this machine is that it detects military activity, and targets it for destroy.
Lynd: That son of a b*tch was right.

Elizabeth: What are you talking about?

Lynd: (shakes hand) I’ll tell you later. Let’s finish this first.

(They both turn back to the TV)

The President: The machine will focus on the nearest military threats, in the most populated areas. Essentially the machine is running by command, but out of control. I’m sure many Amercians think this is some form of artificial intelligence, but let me assure you that it’s not. However, the base that it resides in has lost complete control. The machine has overrided the systematic controls, and we are powerless to destroy it through the base’s data network. Unfortunately, this also means that the base has control of all the base’s defenses. Now…we have organized a Counter-Attack on this base. We attempt to destroy the base using a nuclear bomb…Now my fellow Amercian’s, ALL other options have been weighed, and throught through. THIS is our only option. Believe me when I tell you that there is NOTHING else we can do. The location of the base is very remote, and no civilians will be harmed. The base is in northern Arizona, and in a complete desert environment. This brings me to my next request. Over the course of these happenings, we have conserved our military arms in an effort to make a last stand. This is it. We will commence an air raid in 8 days. I will repeat that. The air raid will commence in 8 days. I know many of you who are viewing this are presently in the military. I know you may have been separated from your posts in the events that have occurred, but I ask that you rejoin with your branch. We will be sending soldiers through the streets, calling out for whoever will go. If you are in a major city, there will be a sign up center, and they will take you by plane to your new post. This is NOT an order. Any man who feels he must tend to his family, or feels he cannot fight, is welcome to go his own path. But I ask now, that you join in arms at our contries darkest hour, to fight for freedom. So that your lives and family’s lives will continue for future generations. For all of you who will not be in battle, stay alive. Fight, and don’t let go of hope.

(TV cuts to news reporter)

TV News Reporter: And, the speech is now done, we are going to take you to our----

(Lynd turns off the TV, and gets up)

Elizabeth: What is it?

Lynd: (sighs) Ethan was right.

Elizabeth: What did he say?

Lynd: When I went to his house, he said the exact same thing that we just heard here.
Elizabeth: Oh.

Lynd: Part of me thought he was just being the same as usual. But I guess he was telling the truth.

Elizabeth: Lynd…you..seem uneasy.

(Lynd turns to Elizabeth)

Lynd: I have to go.

Elizabeth: What? You only just got here. Where would you go?

Lynd: I have to fight.

Elizabeth: No, no no no--

Lynd: Listen, I have to do this Elizabeth.

Elizabeth: You are NOT going to out there and fight whatever computer thing they said it wa--

Lynd: THIS is important Elizabeth, okay? I’ve got to go out there and finish this thing off.

Elizabeth: Why exactly? Hmm? Give me a good reason why you should abandon your family to go off and get yourself killed.

Lynd: I’ve got to go out there, because it is MY duty. It’s MY job! I am a Navy pilot, THAT is my career, okay? And I don---

Elizabeth: I don’t give shit what your job is Lynd! You are NOT going to fight with them, they have NO idea what they’re fighting against!

(Sean takes Caleb’s arm, and they go into another room)

Lynd: I can’t just sit here! On my ass! I’ve got to go out there and help them! They are gonna need my help!

Elizabeth: I don’t understand why you feel so compelled to do this, all of the sudden.

Lynd: I…I--can’t explain it to you….I (slams fist on a table) MUST see that this thing is over. This has cost everything, and I KNOW that it can be stopped.

Elizabeth: But is it really worth leaving your family for?
Lynd: I promise you. I promise you with everything, that I will be all right. I WILL get out of there, and I will come back.

Elizabeth: You don’t even know enough about the situation. You don’t know what lies ahead.

Lynd: I know more than they do. I can manage myself better than them, because of what I know.

Elizabeth: What do you know?

Lynd: What Ethan told me---

Elizabeth: On and on with this Ethan shit! You don’t even know him that well anymore. He could have been lying to you. Your gonna base the rest of your life, off of what some guy said?

Lynd: Elizabeth! I NEED you to support me on this, alright! This is something I have to do!

(The camera cuts to the room where Sean and Caleb are)

Caleb: They’re always fighting like this.

Sean: I know, and I can’t stand it.

Caleb: Do you think Dad should go?

Sean: Yeah, I do.

Caleb: What? Why? Don’t you remember what they are going to do?

Sean: Yeah, I do remember.

Caleb: Then why do you think he should go?

Sean: I--don’t know…It’s sort of hard to explain. Something Dad had said to me before. He said that he promised he’d keep me safe, no matter what. I kind of feel like this is something he needs to do. I can sort of see where he’s coming from.

Caleb: Do you think he’ll come back?

(Sean looks at Caleb)

Sean: (nods) Yes, I think he will. (smiles)
(The camera cuts back to the living room, as Lynd and Elizabeth’s argument heightens)

Elizabeth: You were never here in the first place, Lynd! I don’t understand how you can suddenly have this determination to be around us.

Lynd: It was always a two sided thing, Elizabeth. You didn’t want the kids with me, and I was always too busy to fight about it!

Elizabeth: Then why are you fighting so hard to use these kids as an excuse to get yourself killed?

Lynd: Elizabeth! I will die for those kids if I have to. (points to the room) I will NOT stand here and wait for that goddamn thing to come after you guys! If you can’t accept that, then I’m sorry, but I’m going nevertheless.

(Elizabeth is silent)

Lynd: Now look. It’s 7:43 right now. The deadline for the sign up is in two days. If I leave tomorrow morning, I’ll be able to get in touch with my superiors, and probably get back into the area I need to be. That will at least put me in a good position to know what is going on, and what the plans are.

Elizabeth: You wont have time tomorrow morning.

Lynd: Why not?

Elizabeth: Plane leaves tonight, at the airport. They said they would fly the soldiers out tonight, and regroup for a week, until they had gathered for the strike. Then they would move out to the base, which is on the border of Nevada and Arizona.

Lynd: So that means I got what, like? An hour?

Elizabeth: It means you’ve got to be there in an hour, and the airport isn’t exactly across the street.

Lynd: Shit, I gotta go.

(Lynd turns and runs for the door)

Sean: Dad!

(Lynd turns around to see Sean and Caleb standing next to Elizabeth)

Caleb: Your not leaving us, are you Dad?

(Lynd runs over, and kneels next to his children)

Lynd: No guys, I’ll never leave you. I just gotta go away for awhile.

Caleb: Your gonna go stop the bad thing, right Dad?

Lynd: Yeah, Caleb….I’ve gotta go stop the bad thing.

(A tear comes down Lynd’s cheek)

Sean: I love you Dad. I’m so sorry for all those things I said to you.

(Sean and Caleb start to cry)

Lynd: Don’t be sorry, Sean. Nothing is your fault, do you understand? Everything is my fault, don’t you feel guilty for anything.

(Sean and Caleb hug their father, and they cry together. Elizabeth starts to cry, and Lynd looks up at her. He waves his and, and she kneels down and hugs him aswell)

Elizabeth: Hey..will you be careful?

Lynd: Elizabeth, I promise I’ll come back for you guys okay. Don’t worry.

Sean: Dad, I cursed at you, and screamed. I said that you should have di---

Lynd: No Sean, it wasn’t your fault. And don’t feel guilty about anything either, Caleb. You guys did so well the last few days. I’m so proud of you all.

(They put their heads together)

Lynd: Listen now. This is a safe place, alright? I feel good about this place, that it will be safe for you guys.

Elizabeth: Okay…

(Lynd lets go of Sean and Caleb, and stands up. He backs up to the door)

Lynd: I will return, guys. Don’t you worry.

(Lynd smiles, and walks out the door)

(The camera cuts to Sean, Caleb, and Elizabeth in the living room, sitting together)

Sean: Now, he’s gone…
(The camera cuts back to Lynd as he runs down the street to the garage. He wipes the tears off his face as he gets to his car. He starts it up, and speeds off down the road)

Lynd: Alright…which way is it? Which way…

(Lynd flips through pages of his map, and finally locates the airport)

Lynd: Seattle…Tacoma…Okay, left on that…Parking is?…Okay, under that…

(The camera pans around Lynd’s vehicle as it speeds down the street)

(The camera cuts to when Lynd arrives at the airport. He parks the car, and runs into the entrance)

(Lynd walks over to a desk)

Lynd: I’m here for the military.

Desk Woman: Okay sir, well you need to go into the sign-in section, and go through identification.

Lynd: Thank you, mam.

(Lynd walks over to a room. There are a couple dozen men in camo, sitting)

Lynd: Where do I sign in?

Soldier: Over there (points to a room)

Lynd: Thanks.

(Lynd walks over to the room)

Registrar: Name?

Lynd: Lynd Breckman

[Dale]

Registrar: Branch?

Lynd: United States Navy.

Registrar: Rank?

Lynd: Lieutenant.

Registrar: Navigator?

Lynd: No, pilot.

Registrar: Tags?

(Lynd throws his tags onto the table)

Registrar: Requests?

Lynd: I’d like to regroup with my men, if that’s possible.

Registrar: I’m afraid that’s going to be next to impossible, sir.

Lynd: I’m sorry, but it’s urgent that I join my men.

Registrar: I know how your feeling sir, but your just gonna have to go where they send you.

Lynd: I’m requesting that I rejoin with my men. If it’s difficult I don’t care, but I do care about fighting along side people I don’t know.

Registrar: Sir, your going to be in circulation as it is. You may not even get to fight.

Lynd: Excuse me?

Registrar: We’ve got a lot of soldiers coming in, okay? We may not send all of you new arrivals out.

Lynd: Listen, I’m a Leiutenant in the United States Navy. I am of higher rank than you, and I order you send me with my unit. Listen to me, or get someone who will.

Registrar: I’m sorry sir, but we---

Lynd: Goddamnit son! Get me with my f'n unit!

(The registrar nervously flips through pages, and spots one)

Registrar: Oh…look a spot just opened up for you. It’s probably not your unit, but I think you’ll be able to make a transfer from there…

Lynd: That’s good enough, I guess.

(Lynd walks off)

Registrar: (yells) Plane leaves in twe---twenty minutes…That’s…coming up…Alright?

(Lynd walks over to the boarding station. He walks through a metal detector)

(It goes off)

Security: Soldier. What do you have? Keys?…

Lynd: Okay guys, I have a handgun. I forgot it was in my coat, when I came here. I’m just going to pull it out and place it on the ground.

Security: (nervously) Okay..son…

(Lynd pulls out his gun and puts it on the floor. He walks away from it, and continues down the terminal)

(Lynd walks through the terminal, and into the boarding station. He boards the plane)

Lynd: Okay…okay…it’s gonna work out…

(The plane’s captain begins to speak)

Pilot: We are now on our departure to the military base on Nevada’s border. Good luck soldiers, and go get some!

(The soldiers on the plane begin to cheer. Lynd is silent, and looks out the window)

(The sound of the plane’s engine increases, as the screen fades. Lynd closes his eyes)


Day +4


(The screen fades in, as Lynd is bumped in the shoulder)

Soldier: We’re here.

(Lynd looks up at him, and looks out the window. Several military trucks and men are running past the runway. Lynd slowly gets up, and walks off the plane)

Lynd: Hey…how long was..the…flight?

Soldier #2: Uh about an hour and a half, why? Jesus man, you look awful.

Lynd: I’m just tired.

(Lynd follows the soldiers to the barracks. They walk in the doors, as soldiers are already waiting for them)

Soldier #3: We are in the house, and ready to kick some ass!

(Several of the soldiers cheer)

(Lynd walks over, and grabs an empty locker. He opens it, and finds some clothes. He gets dressed, and sits down on the bench)

Lynd: Maybe this was a bad idea---

(Lynd is bumped on the shoulder. He quickly turns around and sees a familiar face)

Rex: Hey Lynd!

Lynd: Rex? You’re alive?

Rex: Hell yeah, I am. Oh god, I thought you had died, Lynd. It’s great to see you man.

Lynd: I can’t believe YOUR alive.

Rex: They got us out of there that night. They flew us out here, and this is where I’ve been the last few days.

Lynd: Great! It’s really great to see you, Rex. Do you know what the plan is, here?

Rex: They don’t tell us dick around here. But, I think they’re gonna make an announcement in a bit.

Lynd: Are you taken?

Rex: I was, but his plane got taken away, so now I’m out of a pilot.

Lynd: Well, they’re gonna give me a plane, so you could be my wingman if you have no one else to fly with.

Rex: Yeah definitely. It’ll be just like before all this shit happened.

Lynd: Alright, well I’m gonna go talk to----

(The barracks master busts into the barracks)

Barracks Master: Alright shut up! Shut up people!

(The soldiers become quiet)


Master: Now, I’ve got orders from the general. These orders are direct, and non-negotiable. Well, I’ve got a team list. And it starts in alphabetical order by the pilot’s last name.

Rex: Shit, you think we’ll get in?

Lynd: I don’t know.

Master: Team 1, pilot Anderson, wingy Schwartz. Team 2, pilot Aziel, wingy Kuntz. Team 3, pilot Bealer, wingy Aaron. Team 4, pilot Breckman, wingy Montgomery.

Rex: Yes! I can’t believe we just got bunked.

Master: Lt. Breckman, I’m afraid we haven’t had the pleasure. I got a call from a nervous son of a b*tch in Seattle. He said you requested to fight with your unit. This is the best we could do. You understand what I’m saying?

Lynd: Yes I do, sir.

Master: Alright then. Carrying on…Team 5, pilot Buddich, wingy Zarck.

(The camera cuts to the five teams, hearing instructions in the briefing room)

General: Okay, boys. Mission commences in 3 days. You are my elite 5. I’m gonna need you up there to watch the back of that B-52. Now I originally wanted more of our boys up there, but the Air Force insisted on sending their boys up to do most of the dirty work. Now there are gonna be some SAMs, and they’re gonna lock onto you. The B-52 can’t go below radar, because it needs to maintain height for the drop. Under no circumstances will you leave his wing. Even after he’s made the drop, you are supposed to remain on his wing, understand? You guys should have plenty of time to get away from the explosion. Are there any questions?

(No one raises hands)

General: Good. Remember, you’re my elite group. Your fighting for the freedom of Amercia. Be brave, and hold the line. I want to get all you guys back here in one piece. Dismissed.

(The men get up, and walk out the door)

Rex: Well what are we gonna do for three days?

Lynd: I’m gonna sleep.

Rex: Sleep?

Lynd: Yeah.

Rex: (laughs) Why do you need to sleep?

Lynd: I haven’t had a complete night of sleep since the day before it started.

Rex: Jesus…Uh..yeah…I’d say sleep.

(Lynd chuckles, pats Rex on the shoulder, and walks to his barracks)

(The camera fades)


Day +7


(The camera fades in, showing shots of the sun rising at various points of the base)

(A shot of the sun’s rising on a soldier statue)

(A shot of the sun’s rising on an F-18)

(A shot of the sun’s rising on the runway)

(The camera cuts to the cafeteria where Lynd is eating with Rex)

Lynd: How’s your meal?

Rex: Well, I suppose it’s good for military food. Your’s?

Lynd: (shakes his head) Tastes…like..military food.

Rex: So..what’s the plan?

Lynd: Uh..just..get in, get out, and get home.

Rex: …Not much of a plan.

Lynd: It’s the best we got. It’s gonna be alright…You think it’s gonna be alright?

Rex: Hell, it’s gonna be perfect! I got the best guy flyin the plane, and he’s got the best guy navigating the plane.

Lynd: Very true, Rex.

Rex: But..there still is…one little problem with the mission…

Lynd: What’s that, Rex?

Rex: A nuke?..I--mean..We’re gonna launch a nuclear device on our own soil, on our own planes…Doesn’t that just seem a bit off to you?

Lynd: Yes..it does.

Rex: You think we’ll really be able to get out of there in time?

(Lynd stops eating, and looks over to Rex)

Lynd: I gotta tell you something, Rex.

Rex: Yeah..what? What is it, Lynd?

(The barracks master enters the cafeteria)

Barracks Master: Alright people! Stop eating! Word on the street is “Firelord”!

(Lynd and Rex stand up)

Barracks Master: Now go kick some ass boys!

(Several of the soldiers cheer. Lynd and Rex are quiet, and look at each other)

(The camera cuts to solders running around on the runway, and preparing the jets)

(A shot is shown of soldiers loading the warhead into the B-52)

(The camera cuts to Lynd and Rex walking together with the other Navy pilots)

Lynd: Hey, you guys keep sharp up there. I know that I don’t know you guys very well, but that doesn’t matter. Keep sharp, stick together alright?

Rex: What did you have to tell me, Lynd?

Lynd: I--can’t tell you now, Rex…It’s just too many people here, right now.

Rex: What do you mean? What is going on here?

Lynd: It’s nothing, Rex. Your gonna be alright. Do you trust me?

Rex: Yeah man, of course, but what do you know?

Lynd: Just follow my lead up there, alright? You got my back? I’m gonna need you more than hell to get up there and watch those SAMs.

Rex: Alright, man. You can count on me.

Lynd: Alright, then.

(They walk out onto the runway, and go to their plane)

Rex: Ha, man! They got us flyin their Super Hornets.

Lynd: That’s what we always fly…

Rex: Yeah, but I thought that since they were probably short on specific planes, we’d have to fly in some USAF piece of crap.

(Lynd and Rex climb the cockpit ladder, and enter the plane. They get all their gear together)

Lynd: Remember what I said, Rex.

Rex: Don’t worry, I got you man.

(Lynd pulls out recon pictures of the base that he got from Ethan. He studies where the blast radius will be, and the best exit point)

(The camera cuts to the airplane signaler, on the runway. He waves his arms in patters)

(The planes engines start up, as the B-52 makes it’s way down the runway)

(The B-52 takes off, and the Hornets follow it’s path)

(Lynd speeds up his plane, and takes off)

Rex: We’re up.

(Rex turns around)

Rex: Planes 2 and 3 are up. 4 and 5 are almost up.
Lynd: Alright.

Rex: There they are now. 4 and 5 have wings.

Lynd: Very good.

Rex: Get on the 52’s wing.

(Lynd speeds the plane up to the B-52, and takes point on it’s wing)

Lynd: Knight 18, I just wanna tell you guys over there that we’re gonna be on your wing no matter what. And lets do this right, okay?

Knight 18: (on radio) Roger that, Helix. Lets get this done quickly.

Lynd: Alright then. Aim sharp.

Knight 18: (on radio) Roger that.

(The other team members speed up, and take their positions around the B-52)

Rex: Lynd, they’re comin.

Lynd: What’s that?

(Several jets speed past Lynd, and the other planes)

Lynd: Jesus! Perhaps a bit of warning next time?

Rex: God there a ton of em’! Must be at least a hundred!

Lynd: No, not that many. Probaly about 50.

Rex: You sure?

Lynd: Yeah…pretty sure.

(Lynd leans over and looks out his cockpit window to the B-52)

Lynd: Uh, Knight 18, are we supposed to speed up? Over.

Knight 18: (on radio) Uh..negative, Helix. Orders are to maintain present speed, and meet up with them in due time.

Lynd: Alright then. Knight 18, do you guys have an ETA on the base?

Knight 18: (on radio) Roger that, Helix. ETA to the base in about 3 to 4 minutes.

Lynd: Alright then.

Rex: Do you think they’re fighting yet?

Lynd: Probably. They hauled past us, and didn’t look like they planned on stopping any time soon.

Knight 18: (on radio) Helix! Helix! On radio they’re saying it’s pretty f*ckin’ bad. We better increase speed a little bit. If they’re all dead when we get there, we’ll be sitting ducks.

Lynd: Roger that, 18. What should we increase speed to?

Knight 18: (on radio) Uh, I’d say bring it up to about 630. We can slow down when we reach the base.

Lynd: Roger that, Knight 18. Increasing speed to 630... Matrix, Saber, Stone, Galant, increase plane speed to 630 MPH, immediately.

Saber: (on radio) Roger that, Helix. Increasing.

Galant: (on radio) Roger.

Stone: (on radio) Copy that, Helix.

Matrix: (on radio) Got you, I’m pullen faster.

Lynd: Okay guys, the base is just beyond that layer of cloud cover. When we pass that cloud, we’re gonna be in the shit. So everyone remember your objective. Mainly you guys, 18.…no pressure. (chuckles)

Knight 18: (on radio) Ha, roger that Helix.

(The planes approach the cloud cover)

(The camera cuts to each of the pilots, showing the nervous expressions in their eyes)

(The planes come through the cloud cover)

Lynd: Alright we’re in.

(Lynd’s plane is instantly locked onto by 3 different missiles)

Rex: Shit! Oh shit, what do we do?

Lynd: Nothin, just wait.

Rex: Pull out Lynd. Pull out!

Lynd: Trust me, Rex. It’s gonna be alright.

Rex: Missile 1 and 2, spotted. 11 o’ clock, and they’re coming right for us!

Lynd: Can you identify the missile?

Rex: Damn..uh..no I can’t tell.

Lynd: It’s alright. I think I got something.

Rex: Those goddamn missiles are coming, Lynd. What is this plan?

(The missiles near, and Lynd looks at them from the cockpit)

Lynd: Saber, reduce altitude by at least 150 feet.

Saber: Sir?

Lynd: Just do it, alright. Rejoin on my command.

Saber: Okay…

(The plane dives down)

Rex: Okay, I think he’s down, Lynd. Oh shi---

(The missile zooms at Lynd’s plane. Lynd quickly flips the plane, and dives down. The missiles zoom past, and crash in the distance)

Rex: Oh my god! Lynd that was fantastic!

Lynd: Knight 18, rejoining team as we speak.

Knight 18: (on radio) Roger that, Helix. Nice work.

Lynd: Thank you very much. And thank you, Rex.

(Lynd rejoins the team)

Lynd: Saber, you may now increase altitude.

Saber: (on radio) Roger that…Oh shit!

Lynd: What, what?

Saber: (on radio) I’ve got a lock. Damn little bastard is a stubborn one. Uh, I don’t know what to do here, Helix. I can’t rejoin the team, I’ll put the rest of you guys in jeopardy.

Lynd: Drop flares.

Saber: (on radio) I tried. Uh, we’re having a bit of a problem here. The uh, flares are not working right now. Some sort of malfunction in the controls. Uh..I’m runnin out of ideas here.

Lynd: Just fly it out. Break off from the group, and you’ll---

Matrix: (on radio) Helix, Helix! I’ve also got a lock. Shootin sparks!

Lynd: No, no not yet!

Stone: (on radio) Same here, Matrix. Lock on, and I’m shootin away.

Lynd: No guys wait! Hold your flares!

(The planes shoot their flares simultaneously. A couple of the flare bulbs, wind up in Stone’s vent. His engine bursts into flames)

Stone: (on radio) Oh my god! Oh my god! Oh my god! Matrix, I caught a bit of flare in my engine. I’m going down.

Lynd: Stone, that missile is on you!

Stone: (on radio) Oh, shit.

(The missile flies straight into the back of Stone’s plane, and the plane explodes)

Lynd: Goddammit!

Matrix: Uh, oh. My missile is coming, and it’s got a big fat look on it’s face. Flares were ineffective, I’ll try again.

Lynd: Your out! Your out, Matrix. Steer the goddamn plane!

Saber: (on radio) Oh it’s righ---

(Saber’s plane is hit by the missile, and explodes)

(Matrix is frantically pressing the button in his cockpit, to disperse flares. It isn’t working)

Rex: Lynd, we got another lock!

Lynd: Damn.

Matrix: (on radio) Helix! What do I do???

Lynd: Just steer aroun---

(The missile flies straight into Matrix’s plane, and it is destroyed. Matrix’s cockpit is blown like a bullet at a diagonal angle to the ground)

Matrix: (screaming on radio) Help! Goddammit! Eject!

Rex: Lynd, he can’t eject at that speed, especially the condition the plane is in.

Lynd: (shakes his head) Yeah…

(Matix’s plane hit’s the ground, and his shrill scream is quickly silenced)

Lynd: Jesus Christ. Rex, how’s the lock? Is it still on us?

Rex: Yeah, It’s coming right for us. I suggest you use the flares soon.

Lynd: Yeah, I’m thinking your right.

(The missile approaches)

Rex: Wait for it…wait for it…wait for it…

(Lynd has his hand ready to dispense the flares)

Rex: Now!

(Lynd presses the button, and flares shoot out from the rear of the plane. The curve about, and the missile is diverted)

Rex: Nice one!

Lynd: It was all you on that one, Rex.

Galant: (on radio) Helix, what are we gonna do? It’s just you and me, and Knight.

Lynd: We’re gonna keep doing what we’re doing. It’s gonna be alright. We are lock free at this point, and gonna stay that way.

Knight 18: (on radio) Roger that, Helix.

Lynd: Knight 18, when the f*ck are we gonna get on that drop point?

Knight 18: (on radio) Matter of about 3 minutes at most. Probably less.

Lynd: Roger that, 18.

(The camera pans around, as the planes fly toward the drop point)

Knight 18: (on radio) Oh shit.

Lynd: What?

Knight 18: (on radio) We’ve got a lock on, on board. Missile is coming from directly behind us. Approaching very close.

Lynd: Shoot flares!

Knight 18: (on radio) Roger.

(The B-52 shoots it’s flares. The missile contines it’s path, and isn’t diverted by the flares)

Knight 18: (on radio) Shit, Helix. That goddamn missile is still coming! We’re outta flares, and we’re outta time! There’s no way we can make the drop from here! We’ve got at least another minute of flying.

Galant: (on radio) I got, Knight!

Lynd: Galant, what are you doing?

Galant: (on radio) I gotta do this, Helix.

(Galant’s plane slows, and he turns it in the way of the missile. Galant’s plane is hit by the missile, and Knight’s plane remains safe)

Knight 18: (on radio) Whoa, that was close! Thank you, Galant.

Rex: Lynd, this is f'n ridiculous! We need to get outta here, now!

Lynd: Not yet.

Rex: What the hell are you talking about, Lynd? We NEED to leave RIGHT now!

Lynd: We can’t leave, until the job is done!

Rex: We can fight another day, Lynd. This is going nowhere!

Lynd: There wont be another day, Rex. This is the only chance we’re gonna get. Just hold yourself together, and keep an eye out for missiles.

Knight 18: (on radio) Approaching drop point!

Lynd: Roger that, 18.

Knight 18: (on radio) Only another minute!

Lynd: Nice and steady, 18.

Knight 18: (on radio) Shit!

Lynd: What now?

Knight 18: (on radio) Another lock!

Lynd: Distance?

Knight 18: (on radio) Far away! I think we might be able to make the drop in time!

Lynd: How bout the distance to the drop.

Knight 18: (on radio) Estimating at about 5,000 feet.

Lynd: Okay, okay. Keep present course, and drop it on that son of a b*tch!

Knight 18: (on radio) Roger that, Helix! Guys! We’re flooring this f'n plane!

(The B-52 accelerates to maximum speed. The missile is nearing)

Lynd: Alright, your at about 650 MPH, Knight. Maintain speed, and balance. Drop with absolute precision. We’re gonna get only one shot at this.

Knight 18: (on radio) Roger that, Helix. The missile is coming, but we’re only 1,000 feet from the drop.

Lynd: Okay, guys.

(The missile is extremely close to the B-52, and closing)

Knight 18: (on radio) Okay! We’re on it!

Lynd: Drop it!

(The B-52 drops the missile. It falls, and the B-52 is destroyed by the missile)

Rex: Is it clear? Is the nuke clear, and on target?

(Lynd and Rex look down through the cockpit, and try to spot the warhead, through the smoke)

Rex: I see it! It’s clear, and on target!

Lynd: It’s over.

(Lynd pulls the plane and flips it. He turns it right side up, and floors it. He uses the afterburners to increase speed)

Rex: What the hell are we doing, Lynd?

Lynd: This is what I was going to tell you, Rex. We need to get the hell outta here now, because we’re not gonna be clear of that explosion.

Rex: Yeah we will, besides there’s still people out here! And, we weren’t supposed to leave our team.

Lynd: Rex, our team is dead. We are all that’s left, and need to haul ass the hell out of here!

Rex: But what about the other pilots???

Lynd: I don’t have a radio frequency with them. If I did, I’d tell them to evacuate too. But the fact of the matter is that we can---

(A blinding light fills the cockpit)

(The camera pans around the plane to reveal an enormous mushroom shaped cloud. The ground is engulfed by an expanding cloud of sand and dust. The shockwave apporaches)

Rex: Holy shit!

Lynd: Yeah, that’s what I was talking about! We wouldn’t have had a chance back there, probably still wont!

Rex: Lynd! Lynd, it’s really coming man!

Lynd: I know that. Increasing altitude by 300 feet.

Rex: Altitude? We don’t need altitude we need to be going flat as we can, and get out of this!

Lynd: I know what I’m doing, Rex.

Rex: Well, I know what I see. And I see a huge ass cloud of dust coming our way!

Lynd: The shockwave is going to hit us for sure. When it does, we’re gonna lose all control of this goddamn brick, and fall to a crash. When that happens we’re gonna be dead, if we’re close to the shockwave or radiation. When the shockwave hits, we’ll try to glide to a crash….If we glide..we--may be able to land at a safe distance.

Rex: You really think that will work?

Lynd: It’s our only option.

(The shockwave approaches Lynd’s plane)

Rex: Here it comes!

(Lynd tries to calm himself before the shockwave hits. He takes a deep breath)

Rex: It’s hitting us---

(The plane shakes violently and the engines spark. Smoke pours out of the two engines, and Lynd fights for control of the plane)

Rex: Is it working?

Lynd: I don’t know! It’s hard to see what the hell is going on! The wheel feels really loose and stuff. I’m trying to pull up.

(One patch of the dust cloud parts, and Lynd can see ground)

Lynd: Shit! I just saw land, we need to pull up bigtime.

(Rex can also see a patch of land)

Rex: Oh yeah! Pull Lynd, pull us out of this!

Lynd: I’m trying, Rex!

Rex: Pull up, Lynd!

(Lynd pulls with all his strengh. The ground is seen almost fully)

Rex: Oh..you think we’ll make that?

(The camera pans from Rex’s face, and focuses on Lynd’s face. Lynd has a blank stare on his face, and there is a quick pause)

(The camera is still on Lynd’s face. He makes a quick grunt, and pulls as hard as he can on the wheel)

(The camera cuts to black, and a crash is heard. Hard sounds of wind blowing are heard after the crash)

(In the black screen a voice is heard)

Rex: …Are we okay?…

(The sound is quiet, as the screen remains black)

(There is a few second pause, while the screen remains black)

(Subtle sounds of chopper propellers is heard. These sounds louden, as the screen fades in)

(The image is grainy, but a chopper can be seen overhead. Winds of dust and ash are seen, and a rope is lowered from the chopper)


(A man slides down the rope, and the camera fades out. The camera fades in quickly, but fades out again. The camera continues fading in and out, along with the grainy and blurry image)

(The man reaches out his hand and pulls out a body. The body is moving)

(It is Lynd’s body)

(Very quietly, you can hear the man saying “Everything is going to be alright…You are the only survivor)

(The man puts Lynd into a crate, and they raise Lynd back up to the chopper)

(Grunting is heard from the wreckage)

(The man shouts on his radio “We got another! I hear another survivor!”
The man runs over, and pulls out Rex. He assures him that he’s going to be alright, and that he’s going home)

(The crate is lowered, and the soldier puts Rex inside)

(They raise the crate to the chopper, and the screen fades again)

(The screen fades back in again, and the rescuer is being raised into the chopper. The chopper lifts further off the ground, and the winds increase. Dust and ash blow violently around the camera)

(The chopper flies out of the camera’s view, and the screen fades)

(There is another pause, during the black screen)


Day +10


(The camera fades in, but is still blurry and grainy. It is hard to make out what is happening. There is a bluish tint)

(All that is seen is a figure slowly walking, but the figure can’t be identified. There is no sound throughout the scene)

(The camera fades out, and then fades in quickly. The man stops walking, and the camera starts to focus)

(The man’s back is to the camera, and he can’t be identified)

(The camera pans around the man, and reveals that it’s Lynd)

(Lynd looks pale, and tired….He smiles)

(While he smiles, the camera pans around his head, and we see Sean, Caleb, and Elizabeth standing in a row by her apartment door)

(They look at him, and start to cry. Lynd runs toward them, and they run towards him aswell)

(They continue running, as the camera continues to fade in and out)

(The camera fades in, and they meet)

(They quickly hug each other, tears streaming down each of their faces)

(Screen cuts to black)


THE END



A David Bealer Film

Written By David Bealer

Produced By xboxking Productions

Warner Brothers Pictures Presents

Josh Brolin

WASTELAND

Paul Dano

Nathan Gamble

Emily Wagner

With Ben Foster

And John C. Reilly

Also

William James
Joseph Leick
Meredith Waiis

[Dale]

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