StrangeLore - Pilot

7/29/2019 StrangeLore - Pilot

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TEASER

FADE IN:

MALFORD, NEW YORK

INT. MARTIN’S TRAILER HOME - EARLY EVENING

MARTIN SENER, 45, psychic, sits at his table reading TAROTCARDS. He looks confused as he lays the cards down in frontof him.

Martin gathers the cards and shuffles them again. Then, hepauses... He looks around the room, searching for something.

Suddenly, there is a KNOCK on the door.

MARTIN

Enter, please!

The door OPENS and PATRICK, 21, lean and apprehensive walksin.

Martin sees that Patrick is nervous, so he stands up to greethim.

MARTIN (CONT’D)Don’t be scared of me, boy. I don’tbite.

Patrick thinly smiles and walks over to Martin’s table.

PATRICK(nervously)

You’re a seer, right?

MARTINYou can call me that, or psychic.

(points down)Sit down.

Patrick sits down in front of Martin.

Very quickly and awkwardly, Jackson places his hands, palmsup on the table. Martin sighs and looks at Patrick.

MARTIN (CONT’D)Oh, okay then.

PATRICKI thought... I didn’t mean tooffend you if I did, I...



MARTINEasy now, boy. This is a painlessthing. Just relax and let me helpyou.

Patrick relaxes and Martin places his hands above his. Martin

closes his eyes and begins his psychic reading.

MARTIN (CONT’D)You’re searching for someone...

(beat)He, yes... He has caused you pain,loss... But you love him.

PATRICKYes sir, he’s like a brother.

Martin continues to read him. He lowers his hands ontoPatrick’s. The second they touch, Martin straightens up in

his seat.

MARTINThere was a fight, blood, so much... Power.

Then, Martin opens his eyes and moves his hands away from Patrick’s hands.

PATRICK(anxious)

What did you see?

MARTINYou won’t find him.

(beat)He don’t want to be found.

Patrick angrily shakes his head.

PATRICKI will find him. He’s veryimportant to me. You don’tunderstand.

Martin moves his hands under the table, keeping his eyes onPatrick.

MARTINYour light is all wrong. Violent, madness... What did you do to him?

Patrick’s boyish features cracks and a dark smile appears onhis face.

2.



PATRICKOh Martin, so many things. So manythings.

Martin jumps up and holds a GUN in his hand. Patrick justcalmly sits and watches him.

MARTINYou hid your thoughts from me. I would’ve sensed you earlier.

(beat)You are not... Not normal.

PATRICKNo, Martin. I’m not normal, I’m something else.

MARTIN(sweating)

I will use this gun if I have to!

Patrick stands and moves towards Martin.

Martin’s hand tightens on the trigger. He is determined tostay alive.

Then...

PATRICK (V.O.)Sit

Martin sits. He is under the control of Patrick.

PATRICK (CONT’D)Martin, Martin, Martin. Yourpsychic abilities are strong, butnot strong enough to beat me.

Martin struggles to break free, but he can’t. Patrick’sabilities are stronger, however he breaks through a little.

MARTIN(straining voice)

You’re broken... Your aura reeks of

darkness.PATRICK

Yeah, yeah I’m fucked up, Martin.All I see is nightmares andhorrors... And you know what? Itthrills me.

Patrick sits down in front of Martin, looking dead into hiseyes.

3.



MARTINWhat do you want from me?

PATRICK(infuriated)

I want to find Jackson, rot sack! I

want him to come home, and see whatI’ve done for us. That’s what I want!

(then smiling)But from you, Martin. What I wantfrom you...

Then, Patrick places his hand; his darken, thin and CLAWEDhand on Martin’s face. Martin’s eyes widen in fear.

PATRICK (CONT’D)Is your eyes.

BLACKOUT

END OF TEASER

4.



OVER BLACK

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

INT. COFFEE WONDER - AFTERNOON

BRANDON HANKS, 19, cute/geeky sits across from his‘boyfriend’ CHRISTOPHER BELL, 19, at a booth. They are notlooking at each other.

BRANDON(turns to Christopher)

So, this how you want to endthings? Here? At the place we first met?

CHRISTOPHERBrand, don’t think about it like

that.

BRANDONReally? How else could I thinkabout it?

Silence between them.

CHRISTOPHERThis wasn’t easy to do. But you’releaving, moving all the way downSouth.

BRANDONYou know the situation. I have togo, I can’t stay here right now.

CHRISTOPHERBut do you have to drop out ofschool, too? Look, I know it’s hard with everything that---

BRANDON(flustered)

Chris, you said you wouldunderstand and supported this. Ithought you would stick with me.

CHRISTOPHER(voice cracks)

Brand... I don’t think I can...It’s too much.

5.



Brandon sits back, defeated. He realizes that Christopher isnot understanding him.

BRANDONSo, I guess we’re done here.

Brandon gets up and leaves the cafe. Christopher sits there, watching him walk out of the shop and out of his life.

EXT. OUTSIDE OF THE COFFEE WONDER - CONTINUOUS

Brandon walks across the street; pissed and heartbroken. He’sholding back the tears, but he keeps walking.

INT. ANOTHER COFFEE SHOP - MOMENTS LATER

Brandon is sitting booth, alone in the corner. He is writing

fiercely in his JOURNAL.

BRANDON (V.O.)I can’t believe he would do this.After everything...

Brandon looks up from his journal and stops writing. He sighsand then, starts writing again.

BRANDON (V.O.) (CONT’D)You know what? Maybe this is forthe best... Maybe we wouldn’t workout. Chris will be back in college

and I will be at my Nana’s house inSouth Carolina, trying to get mylife in order.

Brandon stops again and takes a drink of his latte. Suddenly,a young, eccentric looking guy walks up to Brandon.

Brandon sees him and smiles. It’s ROLAND SMITH, Brandon’sbest friend.

ROLANDHey, sorry I’m late.

He sits down next to Brandon.

ROLAND (CONT’D)I got your text. I can’t believe hebroke up with you.

BRANDONWell, that’s Chris. When it getsrough, he gets going.

6.



ROLANDAre you good?

BRANDONI’m holding it in, to be honest.But don’t fret, I’m good.

ROLANDOkay... So really... Are you okay?You can tell me; I’m your oldestand hottest friend here.

BRANDON(sighs)

I’m okay, Ro, seriously. Thingscould be better, but I’ll deal.

ROLANDWhat about the dreams?

BRANDONDream free for three months. Thecounseling tricks work.

ROLANDSweet... If you’re good, I’m good.Just keep it real down South forus, alright?

BRANDONYou know I’ll will, gotta bringsome Chi-town flavor down in the

sticks.

ROLANDPlus, you could hook up with thosecute corn-eating country boys. Iheard they are good from the rutterto the tooter.

BRANDON(laughing)

What?

ROLANDGet used to it. That’s how theytalk down there...

They both laugh for a moment.

7.



EXT. MARION BUS STATION - 24 HOURS LATER - AFTERNOON

A bus pulls up to AISLE 24 and makes a slow stop.

The bus door opens and several people get off.

Brandon steps out the bus and looks around his surroundings.

He sees a collection of TREES and a sea of GREEN GRASS. Thebuildings are old, stony, and the sidewalks are like websacross the area.

BEVERLY “NANA” HANKS, 58, caring and MARY TREK, 34, stoic,are standing outside the bus station lobby smiling and waving.

Brandon starts walking towards them. Nana briskly jaunts toBrandon and hugs him tightly. Mary also hugs Brandon, but notas long.

NANA How are you, Brandon? We are soglad to see you!

Mary nods.

BRANDONIt’s good to see the both of youafter all this time.

NANA You’ve grown up to be so handsome.

You look just like your Daddy,doesn’t he, Mary?

Nana hugs him again.

MARYSure does.

NANA Let’s go home. You need get a good meal in you, you’re so skinny.

Brandon smiles, looking very relieved.

INT. MARY’S CAR - MOMENTS LATER

Nana and Mary are in the front seat and Brandon’s in theback.

He is staring out the window, looking at the farmhouses andcolossal trees.

8.



Nana turns towards Brandon.

NANA (exhilarated)

Oh, your Aunt Mary got you a job at

our diner. You can start tomorrowif you like.

MARYOr in a couple of days, whatever works for you, Brandon.

NANA (smiling)

Or in a couple of days.

Mary nods.

MARYYou may need some time to get usedto the country. It’s a far cry from that noisy Chicago.

NANA Mary, he’s been here before?

BRANDONI was eight then, Nana.

NANA Well, that wasn’t too long ago.

Brandon smiles as Mary shakes her head.

EXT. THE WOODS IN MARION - MOMENTS LATER

Three hunters are slowly walking through the woods, stickingclose together. ERIC leads the others guys, MARK and SAM. Helooks determined, his eyes are completely focused forward.

SAMAre you sure you saw it, Eric?

ERICShut up, you dipstick! I saw the white doe. If we get it, we will befucking rich!

MARKLook who’s shoutin’ now.

9.



Eric looks back scathingly at Mark and then he turns away.The men continue to walk through the woods.

ERICMy Granny use to say a white doe isspecial. It comes around places

that are magical.

SAMLike Wonderland?

Sam and Mark snickers like little girls.

ERICFuck the both of you. When we---

Suddenly, the white doe runs by the guys. Sam is startled andMark reaches for his rifle. But Eric is ready. He grins,quickly grabs his rifle and takes off, leaving the others

behind.

SAMHey, wait!

EXT. THE WOODS IN MARION - CONTINUOUS

Eric runs through the woods chasing the doe. The doe glidesthrough the bushes like it’s the wind. However, Eric iskeeping up.

The doe vanishes behind several bushes. Eric slows down and

begins to carefully stalk the doe.

He sees the doe through the bushes, looking away from Eric. A shit-eating grin appears on his face as he points the gun atthe doe.

ERIC(whispers)

I got you now. I got ya.

As Eric tightens his grip on the trigger...

JACKSON (V.O.)Put the gun down.

Eric has a hazed look about him. He lowers his gun and staresvacantly into the bushes. The doe watches Eric curiously.

JACKSON (V.O.) (CONT’D)Leave and take the others with you.

Eric turns around and runs away.

10.



EXT. IN A TREE - CONTINUOUS

JACKSON GARRETT, 20, lightsome and handsome, watches Eric runaway. He’s standing on a thick branch, barefoot and wildlooking.

EXT. THE WOODS IN MARION - CONTINUOUS

Jackson jumps down from the tree and walks over to the doe.

The doe does not leave.

Jackson pats the doe and smiles.

JACKSONLook at you, huh? Causin’ trouble.

Jackson squats down to look into the eyes of the doe.

JACKSON (CONT’D)You need to go and stay away from here for awhile.

The doe nuzzles its head on Jackson’s cheek and runs off.Jackson stands up and watches as the doe vanishes into the woods.

EXT. NANA’S HOME - MOMENTS LATER

Mary pulls up to a nice two story home in middle of the

woods. Brandon gets out and stares at the house. He is slowlyremembers the look and smell of the area.

BRANDONWow... It’s exactly how Iremembered it.

Nana joins him.

NANA Just a few minor changes, but yes,it’s the same old house.

INT. NANA’S HOME/LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS

They enter the house. Brandon grins at some of the PICTURESon the walls. The living room has a huge couch and plushchairs. There are FLOWERS in the middle of the TABLE.

11.



NANA Your room is upstairs, Brandon. It was your Daddy’s room.

Brandon nods and starts heading for the stairs.

INT. BRANDON’S NEW ROOM - CONTINUOUS

The room has bare walls, there is a fully made queen bed, adresser, night stand, a sofa chair and chest next to the bed.There are several BOXES in the corner of the room. The boxesare marked with FRAGILE and EXPRESS MAIL.

Nana, Mary and Brandon walks into the room. Mary setsBrandon’s messenger bag down and turns to Brandon.

MARYThere’s some snacks in night stand

if you get hungry before dinner.

BRANDONThanks, Aunt Mary.

MARY(smiling)

No problem.

Nana steps forward and places her hand on Brandon’s shoulder.

NANA Now Brandon, I know you’ve been

through a lot. But you are safehere.

Mary nods.

MARY(gently)

This is your home now.

Brandon looks down and then, stares at both of them.

Nana grabs Brandon’s hands.

Brandon slowly smiles and nods.

BRANDONI know... Thank you, Nana... AuntMary.

She hugs him.

Nana and Mary leave the room.

12.



Brandon looks around the room and grabs his messenger bag.

Brandon pulls out his JOURNAL and a PEN. Brandon starts writing.

BEGIN MONTAGE:

BRANDON (V.O.) (CONT’D)I barely remember this house. Dadbrought me here a few times as kid.I always wanted to come backthough, but not like this.

Brandon starts unpacking his things, slowly taking items outof the boxes and setting them down on the floor.

Brandon organizes his BOOKS on the bookshelf.

He puts his COMIC BOOKS in stacks.

Brandon folds his shirts.

BRANDON (V.O.) (CONT’D)It’s been a year since everythinghappened... I thought by now, I’dbe alright.

He hangs his JEANS in the closet.

Brandon puts his SHIRTS in the drawers.

Brandon puts his FURRY MONSTER doll on the middle of his bed.

BRANDON (V.O.) (CONT’D)

Mama, thinks being here will help with the

healing, her words not mine. I hope she’s right,

because I don’t want to deal with anymore

therapists or counselors.

BRANDON (V.O.) (CONT’D)I have to do this on my own.

Brandon puts a framed picture of him and four other friendson the night stand.

BRANDON (V.O.) (CONT’D)I miss them so much.

Brandon stares deeply at the picture.

13.



BRANDON (V.O.) (CONT’D)Okay, enough of this BroodingBatman act. This is a new start.Gotta look forward.

He looks around the room.

END MONTAGE:

Brandon finishes writing in his journal.

Brandon sits back and looks at the room.

BRANDON (CONT’D)(whispers)

Hello, new home.

INT. THE KITCHEN - NIGHT

Brandon and Nana are washing and drying the dishes.

Brandon cleans the last plate and hands it to Nana.

BRANDONNana, I have to say that was agreat dinner.

NANA Thank you, baby. I’m glad you likedit. How’s your room?

BRANDONNice and cozy. I’ll probably putsome posters up soon, you know, make it more my own.

NANA Good. Dress it up anyway youplease.... Oh, before I forget,could you take the trash out to theshed?

BRANDON

Sure, where’s the shed?

EXT. THE WOODS - MOMENTS LATER

Brandon is walking on a dirt path with a FLASHLIGHT and theBAG of garbage.

14.



Outdoors is still and dark. Sounds of CRICKETS and a lightbreeze rustling the leaves. The TREE BRANCHES look like abungle of claws towering over Brandon.

Brandon holds the flashlight like a sword, looking around him with every step.

BRANDONI should’ve known this shed wouldbe located in Sleepy Hollow.

Suddenly, he sees two shadows race through the trees. Brandonstops in his tracks.

He shines the flashlight over at his left side. He seesnothing.

Then, he hears a CRUNCHING sound at his right. Brandon turnsaround and sees a WILD DOG staring at him. He freezes.

The wild dog looks at him and runs off. Brandon is a littlefreaked by the dog, but he takes a deep breath and keepsgoing.

Suddenly, he hears WATER SPLASHING.

Brandon stops and flashes the light ahead of him. He starts walking forward. He points the flashlight at the water as hegets closer.

As he steps through some bushes, Brandon loses his footingand tumbles down the small hill.

EXT. DOWNSIDE ON THE HILL - CONTINUOUS

Brandon slips down the hill. DIRT and LEAVES scatters aroundhim. He is still holding on to the flashlight and the garbagebag. In seconds, he reaches flat ground.

Brandon sits up and looks over himself.

BRANDON(laughs at himself)

Shit.Suddenly, a shirtless boy pops up out of the water.

It’s Jackson. He swings his dark hair out of his face andswims towards Brandon.

Brandon quickly stands up with the flashlight in hand.

Jackson notices Brandon and smiles.

15.



JACKSON(pointing at shorts)

Could you hand me my shorts overthere?

BRANDON

Um, yeah, sure.

Brandon walks over to get the shorts.

Jackson gets out of the lake naked and walks towards Brandon.

Brandon is a little embarrassed, but plays it off. He handsJackson the shorts as Brandon turns away.

Jackson slips on his shorts and walks up to Brandon.

JACKSON(casually)

I’m Jackson and you are?

Brandon quickly turns around and sees Jackson extends hishand. Brandon lifts his hand to Jackson.

BRANDON(shaking his hand)Brandon... I’m not from aroundhere.

Jackson smiles at the awkward statement.

JACKSON

I can tell, you don’t have anaccent and I ain’t never seen youaround.

A little laugh escapes Brandon’s lips.

JACKSON (CONT’D)(smiles back)

What?

BRANDONNothing... Nothing it’s just... You

are so country. I guess, I’m reallyin the South.

JACKSONWhere are you from?

BRANDONChicago.

16.



JACKSONSo, where do you live now, Brandonfrom Chicago?

BRANDONI’m living with my Grandmother and

Aunt.

Jackson nods.

JACKSONOh, with Miss Beverly? She’s a good woman.

(beat)I live up around there...

(points forward)In the far side of the woods.

Brandon looks over at the cluster of trees where Jackson

points.

BRANDONWow, looks like a horror moviescene.

JACKSONNo it don’t, it’s beautiful outhere.

BRANDONIt’s creepy.

JACKSON(laughs)

Yeah, you’re really not from here.

BRANDONWell, I should get back home.

JACKSONMe too, I’ll walk with you.

EXT. ON THE PATH - CONTINUOUS

Brandon and Jackson reach the path.

BRANDONIt was nice to meet you, Jackson.

Brandon puts his hand out to Jackson.

Jackson shakes slowly and firmly.

17.



JACKSONNice to meet you too. I hope to seeyou around.

Brandon starts walking in the other direction. Jackson watches him as he walks off.

INT. THE KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER

Nana is putting the dishes into the cabinets. Brandon entersthrough the back door.

NANA I assumed you found the shed.

BRANDONUh, yeah... Nana, do you know a guynamed Jackson?

Nana takes a seat at the kitchen table.

NANA Oh, Jackson Garrett, Kenneth’s son.He’s very nice, always polite to me when I see him. Usually keeps tohimself.

Brandon joins Nana at the kitchen table. Listening veryclosely to her.

BRANDONHe seems cool.

NANA Well, you should get to knowJackson. I’m sure he can show yousome fun things in town.

BRANDONWe’ll see, Nana.

Nana gives him a knowing smile.

INT. BRANDON’S ROOM - MORNING

Brandon is sprawled out on his bed, talking on his CELL PHONEto Roland.

BRANDONNot yet... (laughs)

18.

(MORE)



Well, I met this guy last night...

Yeah, yeah he’s cute, actually,he’s kinda hot, he’s got this“Dukes of Hazzard” thing going on.And get this, I saw him naked...

Nice, very nice... (laughs) Okay, well I’ll let you know...

Alright, bye, Ro.

Brandon hangs up the phone and sits up in the bed. Then, hegets up and walks to the window.

Brandon opens the window and looks out at the sunny, brightday.

INT. THE LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER

Nana is watching TV and sipping her coffee.

Brandon walks into the room.

NANA Well, good morning, mister. Did yousleep well?

Brandon sits next to her on the couch.

BRANDONYes, I did. It’s a little weirdsleeping without sirens or peopleshouting all through the night.

NANA (chuckles)

That’s why I’m here. It’s quietenough to hear God hummin’;nothing’s wrong about that.

BRANDONWhere’s Aunt Mary?

NANA Mary’s at the diner; probablygiving those workers a hard time.

BRANDONHow far is the Sock Hop from here?

19.

BRANDON (CONT'D)



NANA About two miles up Hollis andFirst.

BRANDONTwo miles?

(nodding)I think I can handle that.

INT. SOCK HOP - MID MORNING

The colorful diner has several people sitting in the boothsand tables EATING and TALKING.

The walls have old MOTOWN POSTERS and PICTURES.

There are a couple of servers walking around with coffee potsand plates.

Mary and BLESSING JAMES, 22, zaftig and fabulous, arestanding behind the counter, talking about the LIST of itemsMary is holding.

Brandon walks into the diner.

Mary waves and MOTIONS for Brandon to come over.

MARYWhat are you doin’ here? You didn’thave to come in today.

BRANDONI wanted check everything out. Youknow, see the sites and the frills.

BLESSINGWell, you ain’t got much to see.Marion’s about the size of twocounty fairs.

MARY(laughs)

Blessing, meet my nephew, Brandon.

He’s goin’ to be livin’ with me and mama now.

Blessing and Brandon shake hands.

BLESSINGAre you hungry?

20.



BRANDONSure.

MARYWell, then... Blessing, make one ofthem great omelettes of yours.

BLESSINGSit down, Brandon. You’re about toget a bomb ass breakfast.

BRANDONSounds good to me.

INT. SOCK HOP - COUNTER - CONTINUOUS

Brandon takes a seat at the counter.

Suddenly, ABBY FISHER, 21, comes rushing inside the diner.

MARYAbby, you’re--

ABBYI know, Mary. I know. I had to get mama to drop me off.

Abby briskly walks in the back room and comes back with anapron.

She joins Blessing next to the grill.

ABBY (CONT’D)I just broke up with Aaron.

BLESSINGYou? You left the boyfriend of theyear?

Abby nods at Blessing.

ABBYMama helped me put his stuff out

this morning. That’s why I’m late,Mary.

MARYWell, lucky for you there wasn’t ahuge rush. Blessing and Rob,handled everything.

Abby looks over at Blessing.

21.



ABBYThanks for covering for me.

Blessing winks and pulls out a carton of eggs.

MARY

(stern)Just don’t make this a habit, girl.I depend on all of y’all to keepthis place runnin’.

BLESSINGI can’t believe you finally brokeup with him. But if Aaron startsclownin’, let me know. Squeaky andI--

MARYOkay, not here.

(sternly)Abby, get everything ready for thelunch run.

Abby nods and heads towards the back room. Mary shakes herhead and looks at Blessing.

Blessing shrugs and grabs a couple of EGGS.

BRANDONSo, I see the diner is a happeningplace.

Blessing cracks the eggs in a BOWL.

BLESSINGYes, mostly with that crazy girl,Abby.

Then, Abby comes back with a BOX of SUGAR PACKETS.

ABBYWhat?

BLESSING

Nothing, girl... Oh, this is Mary’snephew, Brandon.

Abby pauses and extends her hand.

ABBYHey Brandon, Mary said you werecoming here... Welcome.

22.



BRANDONThanks.

BLESSINGAbby’s my partner in crime. Butshe’s more trouble than a partner.

ABBYWhatever, I’m still a growing girl.

(smiles at Brandon)I gotta make mistakes in order tolearn from them.

BLESSINGOh, Lord.

INT. SOCK HOP - ENTRANCE - MOMENTS LATER

A MYSTERIOUS GUY/GABE walks into the diner. He looks quitenormal, holding a stack of FLYERS in his hand. Gabe heads tothe counter.


Abby is still placing the sugar packets in the HOLDERS. Gabeflashes a friendly smile as he leans in towards her.

GABEExcuse me, young lady.

Abby takes notice.

ABBYYes?

GABEI’m here from the South GableChurch in Craton. We’re having arevival in a few weeks and I wantedto know if I could post a fewflyers in the diner?

ABBYWell, you can hand some of them to me and my supervisor will take alook. She approves all the flyers.

GABEOkay, not a problem. My number isat the bottom...

(points at the flyer)If she has any questions.

23.



Abby takes the flyers.

ABBYThank you...

(looks at the bottom ofthe page)

Gabriel, Mary will be in touch.

GABEHave a great day.

Gabe walks towards Brandon. He stares at him as if he KNOWShim. Brandon looks up and gives him a quick glance.

Suddenly, Gabe stops next to Brandon and stuffs his hand inhis shirt pocket.

GABE (CONT’D)Hello, there.

BRANDONHi.

Gabe hands Brandon a card that says in RED LETTERS, SOUTHGABLE CHURCH.

GABEWe are always accepting new members.

Brandon takes the card.

BRANDONUh, thanks.

A grin spreads across Gabe’s face, almost frightening thanpleasant.

Brandon gives a friendly nod and Gabe continues on his way.Brandon makes a confused face, but turns back around to thecounter.

EXT. SOCK HOP - OUTSIDE - MOMENTS LATER

Gabe walks outside of the Sock Hop and pulls out a CELLPHONEfrom his shirt pocket. He PRESSES a BUTTON and Brandon’spicture appears on the phone.

Gabe smiles and places the cellphone back into his shirtpocket.

24.



EXT. MARION CITY SQUARE - LATE MORNING

Walking around the city square, Brandon sees a sign for IRV’SCOMICS.

He smiles and quickly walks over to the little store.

EXT. IRV’S COMICS - CONTINUOUS

IRV’S COMICS is an old school comic book shop. It is filled with BOXES OF COMICS, POSTERS of SUPERHEROES SMOTHERS THEWALLS AND DISPLAYS OF TOY SHIPS AND ACTION FIGURES in thecorners of the shop. The counter has assorted CANDIES andCIGARETTES.

A few people are shopping around the store.

Brandon walks over and starts looking in a box of comics. He

pulls out a couple of comics.

Jackson comes from the opposite side of the room. He walks upbehind Brandon and leans carefully towards his left ear.

JACKSONYou like comics?

BRANDON(gasps)

Holy Shit!

JACKSON

No, my name is Jackson, remember?

Brandon slowly smiles.

JACKSON (CONT’D)I wasn’t trying to scare you. Ijust wanted to say hi... Hi.

BRANDON(grins)

Hi, Creepy McCreeperson.

Jackson playfully waves and takes the comics out of Brandon’shand.

JACKSON(looking through thecomics)

Let’s see... Wizards, demons... You must really like this stuff.

25.



BRANDON(jokes)

Nothing like a good freaked outfantasy to ease the mind.

JACKSON

So, what are you up to?

Brandon shrugs.

BRANDONExploring.

JACKSONWell, you can’t do that without aguide.

BRANDONReally?

JACKSONReally. Let me show you aroundSouth Carolina’s finest town.

Brandon laughs.

EXT. MARION CITY PARK - MOMENTS LATER

Jackson and Brandon are walking through the park. Jackson hasa stick in his hand, loosely swinging it about.

BRANDONSo, you been here your whole life?

JACKSONNope, I moved here from Orlando afew years ago with my Dad. This ishis hometown.

BRANDONI guess he likes Marion enough tocome back, right?

JACKSONYeah, he likes the country life...How do you like it so far, city mouse?

BRANDONIt’s cool... Everybody’s seemsgood... It’s creepy quiet at night,but it’s cool.

26.



JACKSON(laughs)

I think you’ll like it here. Town’sfull of good people and nothingcrazy really happens around here.

EXT. MARION CITY LIBRARY - CONTINUOUS

As the two guys continue walking, a large dirty TRUCK drivesby.

The engine RUMBLES like thunder over the area.

AARON THOMAS, 25, burly, sticks his head out the window.Inside the truck is his buddies JAMES BALK and BILLY HANK.They all look directly at Jackson and Brandon.

AARON

Hey faggot! Hey, you hear me!

The guys LAUGH and POINT at Brandon and Jackson.

Brandon walks forward.

BRANDON(angry)

Screw you, dude!

Aaron smirks and drives off.

JACKSON

Forget it, Brandon. He ain’t worthit.

BRANDONWhat an asshole! He doesn’t evenknow me and--

JACKSONHe was actually talking to me.

Brandon is a little shocked.

BRANDONTo you?

JACKSONTo me.

Brandon is actually a tad bit glad to hear that.

27.



JACKSON (CONT’D)That guy you shouted at is AaronThomas, the town asshole.

BRANDONSo why is he shouting at you?

JACKSONWe crossed paths in the past. Healways threatens to beat my ass,but I doubt he has the balls to doit.

BRANDONJudging by the redness of his neck,he will try to do something. Youshould look out.

JACKSON

(teasing)Aww, are you lookin’ out for me?

BRANDON(slightly blushing)

I’m just saying a guy like thatlooks like trouble. You should watch your back.

JACKSONI ain’t worried. I’ve handled worse.

Brandon looks at Jackson, smiling like the devil.

BRANDONReally?

JACKSONThe stories I could tell you.

Just then, a loud DING, DONG rings across town. The TOWN HALLTOWER BELL goes off.

Brandon looks up and then at his watch.

BRANDONOh snap! I told my Aunt Mary I would meet her for lunch, I hate tocut and run--

JACKSONDon’t worry about it. I know how tofind you.

28.



They share a brief moment, Brandon can’t help but to wonderif Jackson is flirting with him.

BRANDONAlright, well, I’ll see you.

JACKSONSoon.

Brandon smiles and turns away; Jackson watches him walk off.

EXT. SOCK HOP - BACK ALLEY - MOMENTS LATER

Abby is taking the garbage to the trash bin. As she starts walking back in, Aaron walks up.

AARONAbby!

Abby stops in her tracks. She sighs, keeping her eyes focusedon the back door.

AARON (CONT’D)Abby, Abby you hear me!

ABBYWhat do you want, Aaron?

He walks up closer to her. She slowly turns around to facehim.

AARONI want you to take me back. That’s what I want. You and me, backtogether.

ABBYWell, I don’t want that. We’redone.

She starts walking to the back door. Aaron jumps in front ofher.

AARONNO! No, okay, Abby... Look, I’m notperfect alright. I’m a simple man;I’m gonna make mistakes.

ABBYThat’s all you ever do! Gettingdrunk, losing jobs... Other girls!I can’t keep going through this!Blessing said--

29.



AARONThat Black bitch always sticks hernose in places she don’t belong;and you keep letting her do it!

ABBY

She’s my friend! And I should’velistened to her over a year ago!It’s over, Aaron! Just let it--

Aaron grabs her arm and pulls her back to him like a ragdoll. She is totally stunned and frighten. Aaron leans intoher ear.

AARON(sternly)

This ain’t over until I say so.

Suddenly, the back door opens and Blessing walks out. There

is so much anger in her eyes, she could melt Aaron with aglance.

BLESSINGYou got five minutes before thepolice gets here. Two minutesbefore I get down there and brawl with you myself.

Aaron lets Abby go. She quickly runs over to Blessing.

AARONThis is between Abby and me!

BLESSINGNaw, it ain’t. This is between you,Abby and me. Now, get the hell outof here.

Aaron lingers for a bit and walks away. Blessing puts her arm around Abby, who is fighting back the tears.

BLESSING (CONT’D)You okay?

ABBY(sniffling)I’ll be fine, girl. I just need a moment.

Blessing nods and Abby returns into the diner. Blessingstands outside, making sure Aaron doesn’t comes back.

30.



INT. DARKEN ROOM - NIGHT

Patrick enters the room with a small BAG in his hand.

PATRICKSamara! Where are you?

SAMARA DRAKE, 23, goth-looking walks into the room from theopposite end. She stares at him with a cutting smirk on herface.

SAMARA The excitable boy returns. Do youhave what I need?

Patrick tosses the bag to her. Samara FLEXES her hand andstops the bag in mid-air. Then, she moves her hand towards aBLACK TABLE and the bag travels there.

PATRICK(grinning)

Show off.

Samara sits at the BLACK TABLE. She takes a JAR of RED SANDand draws a circle with it on the table. Then, she reachesdown to pick up a SILVER BOX. She opens the box and pours outEIGHT EYEBALLS in the middle of the circle. Samara opens thebag and takes out two more eyeballs.

SAMARA We have everything we need.

Samara places the eyeballs in different positions in thecircle.

SAMARA (CONT’D)Now, let’s see if this spell willfind what you’re looking for.

Patrick joins Samara at the table. She takes a seat.

SAMARA (CONT’D)Os olhos dos seers, encontram seuheart' desejo de s (translate in

English - eyes of seers, find hisheart's desire)

The EYEBALLS begin to move around in the red sand. Theprocess is slow at first, but then, it speeds up. Theeyeballs GLOW, projecting a HALO in the air.

SAMARA (CONT’D)Encontre-o! (find it)

31.



The HALO grows and inside the halo is hazy map of a fewstates: Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgiaand Alabama. Samara frowns.

PATRICK(furious)

Where is he!?

The HALO fades.

PATRICK (CONT’D)Fuck!

Patrick flips over the black table. The eyeballs scatters allover the floor.

SAMARA Chill out, Patrick!

Patrick quickly grabs Samara out of her seat and pulls hertowards him, staring wildly at her.

PATRICKWatch your tongue, Samara! I’m nothappy right now!

SAMARA I said... Chill...

Patrick goes flying across the room and lands crookedlyagainst the wall.

SAMARA (CONT’D)OUT!

Patrick laughs.

PATRICKBitch.

SAMARA The spell around him is incrediblypowerful. Face it, Patrick; hedoesn’t want to be found.

As she turns away, Patrick falls to the floor.

PATRICKI will find Jackson, Samara. Andyou will use every bit of yourfucking sorcery to get him.

32.



SAMARA What we saw is every bit of my work! This lead is the best one we’ve had in a year! He’s in theSouth; go where the map showed you.

Patrick walks over to Samara with maniacal look in his eyes.Then, he goes from angry to cheery as he kisses her on thecheek.

PATRICKThank you.

Patrick leaves the room as Samara stares daggers in his back.

INT. BRANDON’S ROOM - SAME TIME/NIGHT

Brandon is sitting in the love seat, writing in his journal.

BRANDON (V.O.)All you can hear is crickets andfrogs screwing. This town is such acliché. Jackson’s right, it’s goingto take some time to get used to.

Brandon stops for second and grins.

BRANDON (V.O.) (CONT’D)Jackson... He’s like a real lifeTom Sawyer... Charming, funny...Hot. But what else is hidden behind

those green eyes?

There’s a KNOCK on his door.

BRANDON (CONT’D)Come in.

Mary enter with CAR KEYS in her hand.

MARYBrandon, could do me a huge favor?

BRANDONSure, what’s up?

MARYI got a hankering for some peachcobbler, but we’re out of nutmeg.Could you run to the store and pickup some for me?

Brandon gets up from the love seat.

33.



BRANDONYeah, which store?

MARY(snickering)

Boy, we only got one big grocery

store. It’s five miles leading outof town.(toss Brandon the keys, hecatches them)

You can’t miss it.

INT. POWER FOODS - NIGHT

Brandon pays the cashier and grabs the bag from him. Brandonnods and heads out.

EXT. PARKING LOT - CONTINUOUS

As Brandon enters the parking lot, he walks past Abby and hercousin, SUTTON CHASE, 21, cornfed. Abby recognizes him andstops in her tracks.

ABBYBrandon?

Brandon turns around and recognizes her.

BRANDONOh, I’m sorry. Abby, right? I’m in

my own little world.

ABBYNo problem.

(looks back at an anxiousSutton)

Oh, this is my cousin, Sutton.

SUTTON(awkwardly smiling)

Hi.

Sutton puts out his hand.BRANDON

Hi, Sutton.(shakes Sutton’s hand)

So, what are you two up to?

ABBYWe’re getting beer and things forBlack Eagle Rock.

34.



BRANDONBlack Eagle Rock?

SUTTON(sarcastically)

It’s a hang out spot for the ‘cool

kids’ in town. You should come.

Abby quickly looks at Sutton with a smirk on her face.

ABBYYeah...

(turns back to Brandon)You should come. We’ll drive you ifyou like?

BRANDONWell, I have make a stop back home,but I’ll join you if you don’t

mind.

SUTTONIt’s cool. We don’t mind, Brandon.Why not show you a good time,right?

BRANDON(smiles)

Yeah, right.

EXT. BLACK EAGLE ROCK - MOMENTS LATER

There are several CARS and TRUCKS parked in the rocky creekarea. People are TALKING, DRINKING and DANCING. MUSIC isBLASTING all over. Abby, Sutton and Brandon are sitting withsome of Abby’s girlfriends. Abby is tipsy and very cheerful.

ABBY(slurring)

I’m a free bitch!!

The girls cheer and shout.

ABBY (CONT’D)Aaron is FINALLY out of my life!!

More cheering. Brandon chuckles a little bit, Sutton notices.He leans over to Brandon.

SUTTON(lightly)

I hope she sticks with this. Shetook him back three times.

35.



BRANDONMaybe the fourth time is a charm?

Sutton shrugs.

ABBY

I need some beer! Somebody pleasesave this woman!

The other girls also shake their cans in the air.

BRANDONI’ll get it.

Brandon gets up and heads for the truck. Sutton gets up as well.

SUTTONYou need the keys.

Abby jumps over to Sutton with a shit-eating grin on herface.

ABBY(cannily)

You could just push the unlockbutton.

(points at the keys)You ain’t slick, cuz.

SUTTON(smiling)

Shut up.

Sutton hurries up to join Brandon.

EXT. BLACK EAGLE ROCK - CONTINUOUS

Sutton joins Brandon and they start walking together.

SUTTONI bet you’re thinkin’ these countryfolks are crazy to party at a dark

ass creek.BRANDON

No, this is cool. Where I’m from,you would kill to have this muchspace and no cops.

SUTTONChicago, right?

36.



Brandon nods “yes”.

SUTTON (CONT’D)Cool, I’ve only been as far asMacomb. I go to school there.

BRANDONReally? My high school classpresident goes there.

SUTTONSo do you go to college?

BRANDON(beat)

That’s a long story, Sutton.

SUTTONI’m willing to listen sometime.

Before Brandon can reply...

JACKSONBrandon!

Brandon turns around and sees Jackson walking over towardsthem.

SUTTONJackson?

BRANDON

You know him?

SUTTONWe work together at Mr. Brighten’sfarm. How do you know him?

BRANDONHe lives near me.

Jackson joins them.

JACKSON

Sutton...(gives him a head nod,Sutton nods back)

What’s going on?

BRANDONI’m taking your advice and gettingto know the land.

37.



SUTTONWhat brings you out here? I neversee you out much.

JACKSONCharles and Rich told me about the

party; so we thought we would dropby and check things out.(looks dead at Brandon)

Glad we did... It’s seems like agood ole time.

Brandon smiles and Sutton nods.

SUTTONYou’re welcome to join us, if youlike.

JACKSON

I can’t, Charles has an early shiftand I’m the sober driver.

BRANDON(anxiously)

Hey, come by the diner tomorrow forlunch... It’s on me.

JACKSONThat’s nice of you, but I--

SUTTON

(interfering)We have a long day tomorrow at work. Mr. Brighten is sending us tohis old mill to clear it out.

JACKSONYeah, what Sutton said. But I couldstop by afterwards?

BRANDONThat would be great.

SUTTONOr you could stop by the mill. It’snot that far from the diner. Wecould all chill out for a minute.I’ll give you my number.

BRANDONSure, okay, that’s cool.

38.



EXT. BLACK EAGLE ROCK - TRUCK - CONTINUOUS

CHARLES MALKIN, burly, guzzles a beer and toss the CAN in theback of the truck.

CHARLES

Hey, Jackson! Let’s go!

EXT. BLACK EAGLE ROCK - CONTINUOUS

JACKSON(to Brandon)

Duty calls. Talk to you later...(to Sutton)

See you tomorrow, Sutton.

Jackson heads off to the truck.

SUTTONSo weird.

BRANDONWhat? Jackson?

SUTTONHe’s like a hermit. Doesn’t reallycome out much... Good to see him though. He’s actually human.

Brandon watches as Jackson and his friends leave the creek.

SUTTON (CONT’D)So, let’s get those beers.

BRANDONOkay.

They head to the truck.

INT. JACKSON’S HOME - KITCHEN - MORNING

KEN GARRETT, 38, handsome and worn, is eating breakfast atthe dinner table.

Jackson walks in with a pep in his step. Ken notices andsmiles. Jackson reaches in the cabinet and pulls out a BOWLand then heads to the REFRIGERATOR.

KENYou’re up early and what’s with thepep?

39.



Jackson sits down at the table and pours CEREAL and MILK inthe bowl.

JACKSONIt’s not early, it’s nine and whatpep are you talking about?

KENNine is early for you.

JACKSONNot really... I got to get over toBrighten’s Mill.

Ken smirks.

KENYou met someone. I can tell.

JACKSONHow?

KENBecause you’re acting like I did when I met your Mama.

Jackson smiles as he stuffs a spoonful of cereal in his mouth.

KEN (CONT’D)(beat)

You have to be careful about this,

Jackson. You know that.

JACKSONI know, dad. You don’t have toremind me.

KENBut I do have to, Jackson. It’sbeen very quiet for the past fiveyears.

JACKSON

Dad, Brandon’s cool. He’s not a spyor a some, being, he’s human.

KENBrandon, that’s his name, huh?

JACKSONHe just moved here from Chicago.He’s Miss Beverly’s grandson.

40.

(MORE)



You know her, she was your fourthgrade teacher.

Ken leans in.

KEN

(very fatherly)I don’t want to be pain in the ass,but just humor an old man here,okay? This kid has no idea about what you are and what you can do.

JACKSONHe doesn’t need to know. It’s notlike I run around here using myabilities.

Ken presses his lips.

JACKSON (CONT’D)Well, all the time.

KENI just need for you to be aware,Jackson.

JACKSONDad, we’re safe. The spell aroundhere is strong; has been still forthe past five years. So, don’t worry. I think we are in a goodplace.

KENI just don’t want you to get inover your head, alright?

JACKSONDad, trust me. I just like the guy.I don’t even know if he likes meback.

INT. BRANDON’S ROOM - CONTINUOUS

Brandon’s on the phone with Roland.

BRANDONI think I like Jackson.

INT. ROLAND’S CAR - CONTINUOUS

Roland driving in his car.

41.

JACKSON (CONT'D)



ROLANDI guess there’s not a lot to do inthat town.

BRANDON O.S.What? Listen, I know I sound like a

90s rom-com, but I get something when I’m around him.

ROLANDHorny?


BRANDONNo... Not really, well, I mean he’shot, and he flirted with me, I knowhe did.

ROLAND O.S.You’re sure?

BRANDONYep.

INT. ROLAND’S CAR - CONTINUOUS

ROLANDWhat about Chris?

BRANDON O.S.I haven’t really thought about him.

ROLANDWow... Well, find out more aboutHee Haw. See if this flirting isreal or all in your head. Oh, andtake a picture of him. I need tosee this country sex symbol.


BRANDON(laughs)

I will... You know, I think I’m going to like it here.

42.



ROLAND O.S.You better. I need a place toescape to when my parents get toohelicopterish. Oh shit, I’m aboutto pass the cops, gotta go.

BRANDONOkay, later.

Brandon hangs up and text Sutton.

Brandon text TELL ME WHAT YOU AND JACKSON WANT AND I WILLBRING IT TO THE MILL.

Then Brandon put his phone in his pocket and leaves his room.

INT. SOCK HOP - BACK ROOM - MID MORNING

Brandon is listening to Mary explain his new office job.

MARYSince you’re good numbers, I wantyou to work on the books and foodorders for the diner. You’ll getpaid like the others.

BRANDONCool, this beats looking for a job.

MARY(laughs)

Brandon, we own a business. Why would you look for a job?

(shakes her head)You can start this weekend,alright?

BRANDONThat works for me.

MARYGood. Now, I’ll organize the officefor you. This will be your space

from here on out.Brandon nods, then Blessing sticks her head into the office.

BLESSINGHey Brandon, your food’s ready.

BRANDONThanks, Blessing... Aunt Mary, I’llsee you later.

43.



MARYAlright.


Brandon walks over to the LARGE BAG at the end of thecounter. Blessing stands next to the bag, drinking a soda.

BLESSINGNow, who are you feedin’ with allthis food?

BRANDONJackson and Sutton. I’m havinglunch with them.

BLESSINGJackson? As in Jackson Garrett?

BRANDONYeah, Jackson Garrett?

Blessing chuckles and takes a seat.

BLESSINGThat boy is strange. Roams aroundtown at night by himself. Causingtrouble up at the pool hall... Yousure you want to be around that?

BRANDON

Nana said he’s a good guy.

BLESSINGShe don’t know... Jackson’strouble. But Sutton’s cool. Loyallike a labrador, you can’t go wrong with that.

BRANDONSutton is a nice guy... I shouldget up to the mill. Don’t wanttheir food to get cold.

BLESSINGDon’t worry about that, boo. Mycooking is good hot or cold.

Brandon grabs the bag and leaves the diner.

44.



EXT. BRIGHTEN’S MILL - NOON

Several guys are MOVING things from the aged MILL. TWO TRUCKSare packed with old MACHINERY and FURNITURE.

Sutton carries a couple chairs to the truck.

His cellphone BUZZES. He pauses for a minute, pulls out hisphone and checks it.

The text says: I’M ON MY WAY, 10 MIN TOPS.

Sutton puts his phone back in his pocket and walks towardsthe mill.

INT. BRIGHTEN’S MILL - CONTINUOUS

Sutton walks in the empty room. The HUGE FAN is running

loudly as the engine CHOKES and SPUTTERS. A GUY carries mid-sized BOX, heads towards Sutton.

SUTTONWhy are we using this fan?

The guy shrugs.

Sutton heads upstairs.

SUTTON (CONT’D)Jackson!

INT. BRIGHTEN’S MILL - OLD OFFICE - CONTINUOUS

Sutton enters the room where Jackson is stacking boxes. He issweaty and shirtless. Sutton can’t help but to take a glance.

SUTTONIs it that hot up here?

JACKSONYeah, the air from that broke assfan ain’t reachin’ up here.

SUTTONBrandon is on his way.

Jackson nods as a cocky little smile appears on his face.Sutton notices.

SUTTON (CONT’D)You like him don’t you?

45.



Jackson looks up to face him.

JACKSONWhy do you ask?

SUTTON

You can be trouble, Jackson. Youknow that.

JACKSONI’d never put him in harm’s way,Sutton. My beef with Aaron oranyone won’t get... Oh, get it...You like him. I noticed that lastnight.

Sutton folds his arms.

SUTTON

(firmly)Brandon is a cute guy...

(walks up to Jackson)But that’s not the point.

EXT. BRIGHTEN’S MILL - OUTSIDE - CONTINUOUS

Brandon walks up to the mill. He asked a GUY if Jackson andSutton are inside. The guy points UP. Brandon nods and headsinside the mill.

INT. BRIGHTEN’S MILL - OLD OFFICE - CONTINUOUS

The two boys continue to stare at each other.

JACKSONHey, I’m not tryin’ to argue aboutthis.

Sutton backs off.

SUTTONThis isn’t an argument. If he’s

interested I’m sure he’ll saysomething.

JACKSONI think he already has an idea.

SUTTONSo you do like him.

Jackson nods.

46.



SUTTON (CONT’D)Mother fucker.

INT. BRIGHTEN’S MILL

Brandon walks up the stairs. As he heads up, the FAN startsto SMOKE and CRACKLE, then it explodes. The PLUG-IN BLACKENSand the WALL catches on FIRE with rapid speed.

The explosion shakes the mill.

INT. BRIGHTEN’S MILL - SECOND FLOOR HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS

The FIRE reaches Brandon on the second floor. He drops theBAG and tries run down the stairs, but the fire has spreadbelow him.

Brandon runs to the next available room, which is an empty, windowless room.

EXT. BRIGHTEN’S MILL - OUTSIDE - CONTINUOUS

Everyone is standing around the mill as the fire grows aroundthe building. Some of the guys are running to their trucksand others are using their cellphones to call for help.

INT. BRIGHTEN’S MILL - OLD OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER

The room is full of SMOKE. Sutton is coughing uncontrollably.Jackson tries to find his bearings. The smoke doesn’t affecthim. He sees the window and guides Sutton towards it.

Jackson pushes the window and the foundation around it awayfrom the wall, with one hand.

JACKSONGet out!

Sutton gets to the BROKEN WINDOW and climbs out. Jackson watches as Sutton reaches the ground close enough to jump the

rest of the way down.Jackson turns around see the flames consume the room. As hestart to leave, he stops in his tracks.

JACKSON (CONT’D)Brandon...

47.



INT. BRIGHTEN’S MILL - SECOND FLOOR ROOM - CONTINUOUS

Brandon is on the floor, covering his mouth and crawling awayfrom the fire. He is frighten and completely weaken by thesmoke swarming around him.

He is slowly losing consciousness. As he begins to fade out,he sees something coming towards him.

He sees something walking through the fire, a BLACK SHADOWlike figure, with GLOWING EYES coming towards him.

BRANDON(to himself)

No, it... It can’t be...

Then, Brandon passes out.

EXT. BRIGHTEN’S MILL - OUTSIDE

The FIRE consumes the most of the building. The town’s FIRETRUCK reaches the mill. The FIREMEN quickly get into positionand start spraying WATER everywhere. People from the town hasarrived to see the incident.

Sutton runs up to one of the firemen.

SUTTONThere is two more guys in there!

The second level EXPLODES and people SHOUT in fear. Suddenly,

a wall on the lower side of the mill BURSTS open and Jackson walks out with Brandon in his arms.

The Firemen see Jackson and Brandon stumble out the building.They quickly assist them, taking Brandon from Jackson.

Sutton runs up and sees Jackson standing there. He noticesthat he is unscathed and okay. But Sutton quickly turns hisattention to Brandon.

An EMT comes up Jackson to check on him.

The crowd watches behind the police barricade. Everyone ischattering and talking. One guy walks in front of the crowd.

It is Gabe. He stares at Jackson while the EMT talks withhim.

Gabe watches Jackson as if he sees more than what’s there. Hereaches in his pocket and pulls out his phone and takesJackson’s picture.

48.



INT. AMBULANCE - MOMENTS LATER

Brandon is awake and breathing with the help of an oxygen mask. An EMT is standing near him. He is looking around forfamiliar faces. Hopefully, Jackson’s.

BRANDON(raspy)Where’s Jackson? Sutton?

EMTThey’re fine, but you should rest.

BRANDONWas there anyone else in there?

EMTLuckily, no everyone’s accountedfor.

Brandon stares off in the distance and puts the oxygen maskback on.

INT. NANA’S HOME - LIVING ROOM - EARLY EVENING

Brandon is laying on the couch. Nana sitting next to him, while Mary brings him a plate of FRIES. Sutton and Abby arealso there in the living room.

NANA I talked to your mama while you

were at the hospital. She’s gladyou’re okay. You should call her.

BRANDONI will, Nana.

ABBYBlessing wanted to be here, but thediner is packed with folks.

MARYI bet it is, maybe I should call

the Sock Hop.BRANDON

Aunt Mary, go down to the diner.You don’t need stay here, I’m fine.

MARYNo, I’m here. Blessing can handleit.

49.



NANA Don’t you worry about the diner,just rest here on this couch...Thank God, Jackson got you out intime.

BRANDONJackson?

NANA Yes, he was the first to call me tolet me know you were okay.

SUTTONYeah, Jackson saved me too. He waslike a superhero or something.

BRANDONSo it was him?

Brandon sits back on the couch and looks off into space.

NANA I hope he’s alright, all that smokeand fire probably didn’t do him anygood.

BRANDONI hope so too, Nana.

ABBYWell, we should get going...

Sutton?

SUTTONYeah, we should. Brandon, listen toMiss Beverly and get some rest.

BRANDONOkay, Sutton. Abby, you both have agood night.

Abby nods as her and Sutton leaves the room. Once Suttonreach the door, he turned around to look at Brandon. Brandon

smiles at him. Sutton smiles back.

INT. BRANDON’S ROOM - NIGHT - HOURS LATER

Brandon is writing in his journal, sitting on his bed.

50.



BRANDON (V.O.)I could have died today. It’s weirdto say that for second time, butit’s true. Lucky for me, I had asavior. Funny, it’s the same guyI...

Suddenly, Brandon hears PECKING at his window. He looks up tosee nothing there. Then...

JACKSON O.S.Brandon.

Brandon looks confused. He’s not sure if he is hearingsthings. Brandon gets up and looks out the window.

He sees Jackson standing outside in the yard. Brandon’ssmiles grew big on his face.

JACKSONCome down here.

EXT. NANA’S HOME - OUTSIDE - MOMENTS LATER

Brandon joins Jackson in the yard. They are both glad to seeeach other.

JACKSONI just wanted to see if you werealright.

BRANDONI am, and you? Are you okay?

JACKSONYeah, I’m good.

BRANDON(looking over Jackson)

You got out without a scratch. You must be some mutant or something.

JACKSON

(teasingly)Or something... Your hero?

They laugh.

BRANDON(beat)

Seriously, thank you, Jackson. Ithought... That was it for me.

51.



JACKSONNope, that’s not in the cards. Ithink you’re sticking around muchlonger.

BRANDON

I plan on doing that. Plus, I wantto get to know you better.

JACKSONAre you sure about that? I’m knowyou heard things about me.

BRANDONI want to see for myself, besides,Nana trust you and I trust her.

JACKSONWell, I’d like to get to know you

too, Brandon. I could use a goodfriend around here.

BRANDONDitto.

Jackson smiles big.

JACKSONWell, I’m glad you’re okay.

Suddenly, the front door opens and Mary steps out of thehouse.

MARYI thought I heard voices.

She joins them out in the yard.

JACKSONI’m just checking on Brandon, MissMary.

MARYThanks to you, he’s alive and well.

Thank you so much, Jackson.JACKSON

Not a thing, Miss Mary... Well,good night.

MARYGood night.

Jackson looks to Brandon.

52.



JACKSONSee you soon.

BRANDONYeah... see you soon.

Then Jackson leaves.

INT. PATTON HOTEL ROOM - LATER

Gabe walks out of the bathroom in a large BATH ROBE. He goesover to his desk and sits down.

Gabe pulls out a FOLDER and opens it. Inside the folder arePICTURES OF BOYS with BLACK Xs over them. But one picture isclear... It is a picture of Brandon.

Gabe pulls out his PHONE and press one number. The phone

rings.

GABEYes... Very well, very well.

Gabe runs his fingers over Brandon’s picture.

GABE (CONT’D)I found the sinner. Yes... He willbe great as the gift... Yes, Ithink so... Yes, but I think I havesomething that will please theglorious one indeed.

Gabe pulls out another picture from batch of photos. It is apicture of Jackson.

GABE (CONT’D)I never thought I would ever bethis fortunate... Yes... I’ve seenit for myself...

He picks up the picture and holds it in front of his face.

GABE (CONT’D)

(madly grinning)I finally found a demon, a child ofBaal... Don’t worry, I’ll get them both for you... Praise Him.

FADE TO BLACK.

53.



(CONT’D)

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54.

StrangeLore - Pilot

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Transcript of StrangeLore - Pilot