上班族讀書會／「誰都可以變成專業！」
【聯合晚報╱楊美玲/紀錄整理】 2009.08.02 01:45 pm
書名：《專業：你的唯一生存之道》
作者：大前研一
譯者：呂美女
出版社：天下文化
推薦人：財政部次長曾銘宗
內容簡介：
國際知名趨勢大師大前研一針對「專業」全新定義，他認為，只要能控制感情，以理性行動；擁有比以往更高超的專業知識、技能和道德觀念；秉持顧客第一的信念；好奇心和向上心永不匱乏，加上嚴格的紀律，這樣的人才可稱為「專業」。
他並於書中提出預言：「專業階級遲早會在日本出頭，產業界將因之動搖！」他認為，未來世界的重點，將不是程度也不是規模，而是「方向」；需要的是受過嚴格訓練，擁有克服眼前困難的創意和勇氣、能夠在無路可走之處嗅出一絲可能性的專業人才。
書中並提及未來的專業人才必須具備4種能力：預測力、構想力、議論力、適應矛盾的能力。只要擁有這4種專業能力，即使面對環境的變化，也能發揮同樣的實力，是充滿變動與未知的世紀中，唯一能依恃的生存能力。最後，他同時也再提出一個預言，就是「誰都可以變成專業！」
讀書心得：
每個人對於「專業」都有似是而非的解讀，但大前研一提出了更高標準的全新定義，而且更定論「專業」是唯一的生存之道。
在現今這個多元化的社會，不少人會覺得工作難找，但事實上，政府機關或企業也常會面臨找不到適合人才的窘困，顯示出在職場上已出現Gap，包括人才斷層、人才不易培訓，以及如何培養人等問題。若就個人而言，就是專業問題，而此書中也提到專業者應必備的4項能力，包括先見力、構思力、議論力，以及矛盾適應力。
在「先見力」方面，當一個人夠專業時，就能看到別人所看不到的趨勢，像全球金融風暴發生時，有些人早已預先觀察出，所以只要將注意力放在一般人從未正視過的地方，就能察覺一般人看不見的事務的洞見力。
每個人都應常常逆向思考、自我否定，客觀地審視自己，並且重新全面性的構思新事業，將創意轉換成具體行動力，那麼自然而然就能培養出「構思力」。
此外，專業人才更要有發現問題的能力，因唯有先發現問題，才會有解決的能力，所以「議論力」是可以靠後天訓練而成。最後，就是要有「矛盾適應力」，可以培養全方位合理分析事情的習慣。每個人若擁有這「四力」，就具有「專業」，就能在組織機關和社會發展得很好，而這也正是唯一的生存之道。
我常常利用假日去逛書店或看書，平常也會在睡前時，利用一個半小時的時間看書，特別喜歡看和趨勢、金融財政、管理和策略有關的書籍，另外，我也很喜歡買書送給同事或朋友，和他們分享閱讀的喜悅。閱讀「專業」這本書，讓我學習到不少，更體會專業的重要性。
【2009/08/02 聯合晚報】@ http://udn.com/
2009年8月2日 星期日
浩劫重生 (Cast Away)
Cast Away
(Drama) (2000)
© 2001 by Raymond Weschler
Major Characters
Chuck Noland…………………………………………………..Tom Hanks
A manager for the Federal Express Delivery Company (“Fed Ex”), who lives in Memphis, Tennessee, but travels all over the world for his job. A very nice, smart and resourceful man who is always fighting the passage of time.
Kelly Frears………………………………………………………..Helen Hunt
Chuck’s charming girlfriend, who used to work for Fed Ex,
but who is now working on her Ph.D. degree.
Stan……………….…………………………………………………..Nick Searly
A friend of Chuck’s at Fed Ex, whose wife is dying of cancer.
Plot Summary
This is the story of Chuck Nolan, a midlevel manager for the Fed Ex Delivery Company, which is one of the two biggest delivery companies in the United States. Chuck lives in Memphis, Tennessee, where Fed Ex is based. He is planning to marry his girlfriend, Kelly, who is finishing up a Ph.D. (The highest academic degree). Kelly loves Chuck very much, but is frustrated by how much he works, especially since he travels overseas a lot. When the film opens, Chuck is helping Fed Ex set up their office in Moscow, Russia.
One day while flying to Australia, Chuck’s Fed Ex plane crashes during a storm, and as the only survivor, he suddenly finds himself on a very small and empty island, with virtually nothing to eat except crabs and coconuts. As the days turn into months and then years, Chuck learns to physically survive, but he must also face the emotional challenge of being completely alone (except for the company of “Wilson,” who is in fact nothing more than a volleyball with a painted face).
After several years, Chuck decides to risk his life in a courageous attempt to sail off the island. If he fails, he will drown in the ocean, but even if he is successful, he will face the new challenge of returning to friends and family that thought he had died several years earlier….
A note on the title: A “castaway” is a person stuck on a small island, usually
after a ship sinks. “To cast away” something is to throw it away.
電影片名註解：castaway做名詞用時，指被困在小島上的人（通常是他的船遇難沉沒之後。）cast away當動詞時，指將某事、某物丟棄。
Some Words and Expressions that You May not Know
Chuck teaches the Russians about Fed Ex and time….
查克向俄國人介紹聯邦快遞公司，並說明自己對時間的理念。
I’ll have another pick-up for you on Thursday.
取件（當名詞，已成為快遞公司的普遍用語。）
In the Fed Ex or delivery business, this is a noun
that refers to the act of picking up a package.
Time rules over us without mercy, not caring whether we are healthy or ill…
無憐憫之心
“Mercy” is the willingness to forgive or not punish, or perhaps another word for compassion.
We live or die by the clock.。查克的生活哲學，他認為時間非常重要
This is Chuck’s philosophy of life; Time is
the most critical factor in work and life.
We never allow ourselves the sin of losing track of time.
亦是查克的生活哲學，他認為失去時間的觀念是不可原諒的。
A “sin” is a religious word that refers to an evil
or immoral act that God does not approve of.
50,000,000 Elvis fans can’t be wrong! 指Elvis Presley，貓王
The name of a well known Elvis Presley album.
I took the liberty（擅自作主）of sending this to myself; I fed ex’d （快遞，當動詞）it before I left Memphis.
“To take the liberty” of doing something is a fancy way of saying to do it, even if others may not approve. Note that “to fed-ex” a package has become a common verb, meaning to send it by fed-ex.
It is a clock that I started at absolute zero hour.格林威治時間午夜零時
A technical way of referring to midnight at Greenwich, England.
Technical drawings. Architectural plans.建築圖稿
These are official drawings that architects or engineers
design in order to build houses or other buildings.
87 hours is a shameful outrage!（不可原諒的，令人憤怒的狀況）This is just an egg-timer.（沙漏計時器）
“Shameful” is a strong adjective meaning very badly done. An “outrage” is a very bad, cruel or scandalous action that causes great anger. An “egg-timer” is a device used to measure the passage of a few minutes time, usually by having sand fall through a tube of glass.
Adoption papers.領養文件
The official papers that are needed in order to adopt a child.
87 hours is an eternity! 永恆（在此指很長一段時間）
A great word which means forever, or perhaps until the end of time.
The cosmos were created in less time.宇宙
A scientific word that refers to the entire universe.
Wars have been fought and nations toppled in 87 hours! 被摧毀
“To topple” an enemy is to crush or completely defeat them.
When his truck broke down, he stole a boy’s bicycle to do his delivery.
（車子）壞了
If any kind of machine “breaks down,” it stops working.
15 minutes! Crunch time!重要時刻
A slangy way of referring to a very important time in which people must act very quickly and effectively in order to accomplish a goal.
The truck in Red Square（蘇俄的紅場）is stuck!（卡住、陷住了）
“Red Square” is the historic center of Moscow, Russia.
If a car or truck is “stuck,” it will not move.
Tick tock, tick tock! 時鐘發出的滴答聲（查克以此要大家動作快）
The sound that a clock makes. Chuck’s way of telling people to hurry.
I’m doing the sorts（郵件分類）in the middle of Red Square….in the shadow of Lenin’s tomb.（列寧的墳墓）
“To sort” mail is to organize it, though note that in the fed-ex world,
it can be used as a noun! “Lenin’s tomb” is where the Russian leader’s body has been housed since 1924 (Thousands still visit it each day).
I’m outta（out of，離開）here in 2 minutes and I’m picking up the sweep through Paris.（在此指飛機）
Note that “out of” becomes “outta” in rapid speech. “I’m outta here” is a slangy way of saying “I’m leaving.” In this case, “the sweep” is a plane that travels through Paris on the way to the US (but this is never used).
Try U.P.S. 一快遞公司，聯邦快遞最主要的競爭對手
United parcel Service, which is Fed Ex’s main competition.
With this extra head wind（飛行或航行時遇到的逆風）, are we going
to be able to push it and make the sort?
“Head wind” is wind that blows against the direction of a plane or boat.
Remember that in the fed-ex world, a “sort” is the act of organizing packages (Chuck is asking if they can deliver the packages in time).
Jack keeps getting certified to fly? 有資格
“To certify” a person to do something like fly a plane is to officially approve of them doing it, often by giving them a license to do it.
That’s the spirit! Relentless is our goal! 就是這種精神
“That’s the spirit” is a way of encouraging a person after they show they are going to try and do something difficult. Note that “relentless,” an adjective meaning to continue without rest, is used here as a noun.
What do you expect from the guy who stole a crippled kid’s bicycle? 殘障的
If a person is “crippled,” they are physically disabled or handicapped
(This word is generally considered old fashioned).
2, 4, 6, 8 minutes late. Next thing you know, we’re the US mail.
This is Chuck’s way of saying that if they don’t do better,
Fed Ex will be as inefficient as the U.S. Mail service.
查克以美國郵政做比喻，因為美國郵政服務一向給人效率不佳的印象。
Those Ruskies would be walking on water right now. 俄國人（俚語）
A silly and old-fashioned way of referring to Russians.
It’s a 1992 full-bodied grape juice. 香醇的（通常用以形容酒）
“Full-bodied” is a fancy way of referring to the taste of good wine,
but it is never used for juice, unless the person is not being serious.
See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.
An expression that can be used to refer to people who refuse to see horrible things happening around them, thus making it easier for abusive governments to repress their people.
She went to the doctor. It wasn’t metastasized. （指癌細胞）擴散
A medical word that refers to cancer that
has spread to different parts of the body.
It’s just kind of wait and see. 只能看往後發展再說
If a person has a “wait and see” attitude, they have decided not to
take any more action until they see what happens in the future.
I’m going to come by（過去拜訪）and see her on my next layover.
（在此指出差之前）
“To come by” a person’s house is to visit. A “layover” is usually a city airport where a plane lands before going on to the final destination.
He’s a systems analyst.（電腦系統分析師） He played centerfield （中野手）
for us in the softball tournament（壘球賽）last labor day.（美國的勞動節）
A “systems analyst” is a person who works with computer networks.
“Centerfield” is a position in baseball (and softball), and a “tournament” is a series of games to see who has the best team.
“Labor Day” is an American holiday held to celebrate workers.
That’s beside the point. 和主題無關
If something you say is “beside the point,” it is not
relevant to the main part of the conversation.
Chuck returns to Kelly, but is soon off again on another quick trip.
查克回到凱莉身邊，但很快的又前往另一次公差旅行
Is Kelly Frears around? :: She’s copying her dissertation. 博士論文
A “dissertation” is a major research paper that is
written in order to get the graduate degree of Ph.D.
You’re home. :: Home, indeed. 確實
A British word that means certainly, without question or for sure.
He’s been declared physically fit（適合）to fly; Santa got
checked out（體檢）by doctors at the VA hospital
（指Veterans Administration，退役軍人會）
If a person is “fit” to do something, they are physically able to do it.
“To check out” a person is to carefully examine them. A “VA” hospital is run by the Veterans Administration, which serves people who served in the military.
After they declared the jolly old elf（指聖誕老人）in tip top shape,
（身體狀況良好）Santa took off into the wild blue yonder.（遙遠的天際）
“Jolly” is an old fashioned word for very happy, and an elf is a mythical children’s character, like Santa Claus. If a person is in “tip top shape,” they are in excellent physical health. “The wild blue yonder” is a literary way of referring to a place in the distance that is very far away.
You’ve got to be in the market for some of those candied hams. 蜜汁火腿
If you are “in the market” for something, you want to buy it.
“Candied hams” are a type of sugar-covered sweet ham
that is popular for holidays
When I was there we did 2,000,000 and
we thought that was a big deal.（了不起）The glory days.
（指過去光榮的時光）
If something is “a big deal,” it is considered important or impressive.
A Person’s “glory days” are those days in the past when they were at their best or most impressive.
And Fred Smith（聯邦快遞的創始者）had that cardtable bronzed.（上銅漆）
“To bronze” a piece of furniture is to cover it with a shiny brown coating that will make it last a very long time (Fred Smith is the founder and head corporate officer of the Fed Ex company).
The new hub in Anchorage.（航空公司用以作為管理中樞的機場）
A “hub” is an airport that an airline uses as a center of its operations, from which it flies to lots of other cities (Anchorage is the biggest city in the state of Alaska).
It’s state of the art（最新最好的科技產品）and a perfect marriage
between technology and systems management.
If something is “state of the art,” it is made with the very latest and best technology. “Systems management” is the science of managing networks made of either people or computer technologies.
Why don’t you make an honest women out of Kelly? 為什麼不跟Kelly結婚？
This is a silly way of asking Chuck to marry Kelly.
Kelly is still recovering from that failed relationship with that parolee. 假釋犯
A “parolee” is a person who was in prison but has been released “on parole,” which means they can stay free so long as they agree to certain conditions, such as reporting to a parole officer once a week.
I knew it had something to do with swearing to tell the truth.
（在法庭上）發誓說實話
In a court of law, a person “swears to tell the truth,” which is a dramatic way of saying that they promise to tell the truth.
He tripped on a curb holding the door open for me.
人行道和馬路間微突起的分界
A “curb” is the edge of a sidewalk, where it meets the street.
Kelly just can’t see being with a man who wears a pager to bed. 呼叫器
A pager is a small electronic device that people wear on their belts that allows them to know when somebody wants to talk to them (They are no longer as important since cell phones are now so common).
When you wear it to bed, I hope you get one of those things that go vibrating.（振動）:: I’m not touching that.（我不說了，俚語用法）
“To vibrate” is to shake gently back and forth. Here. “I’m not
touching that” is a slangy way of saying “I refuse to talk about it.”
When are you defending your dissertation? 你何時論文口試？
Note that a student “defends” their Ph.D. dissertation in an official ceremony in which professors ask them questions on what they
have written.
Merry Christmas! :: I thought you were going to stiff her.（俚語）騙財
“To stiff” a person is a slangy way of saying to cheat them out of money, or perhaps to refuse to give them something they deserve.
Is it a test（產品上市前的試用品）fishing line（釣魚線）or something?
A “test” product is one that is used just to see if the product works
like it is supposed to. A “fishing line” is used to catch fish.
I love the wrapping. 包裝
“Wrapping” is the paper that covers a box.
My granddaddy used it on the Southern Pacific. 橫貫美國的主要鐵路
The “Southern Pacific” is the name of a major railroad that crosses the US.
You can program it so it vibrates. 設定
“To program” a watch, computer or other machine
is to set it up in such a way that it does what you want.
Sorry about the hand towels. You’re hard to shop for. 很難為你買東西
If a person is “hard to shop for,” it’s difficult to know what kind of present you should get them because it’s not clear what they would want (or perhaps what you know they want is difficult to find).
Take it and hold on to it so that you can open it on New Year’s Eve. 留著
“To hold on to” something is to keep it indefinitely.
Is all this turbulence（亂流）from Santa and those 8 tiny reindeer?
（為聖誕老人拉雪橇的馴鹿）
“Turbulence” is the violent shaking that planes sometimes experience
when flying. “Tiny” means very small, and a “reindeer” is a type of deer that people associate with Santa Claus.
Tell them we’re deviating South for weather. 脫離原定航道
“To deviate” from a planned route is to move in another direction.
I got us plotted（在地圖上找到我們的位置）; We’re 200 miles South of our original course.（原定的航道）
“To plot” a plane on a map is to locate exactly where it is.
A plane’s “course” is the planned direction it is supposed to take.
Continue plotting and check contingency procedures. 備用計劃
“Contingency procedures” are back-up plans that are taken if the original plan can no longer work because of a change in the situation.
Broadcasting in the blind; How do you read?
什麼都看不到，我們試著以無線電和外面聯繫，你覺得如何？
If a pilot is “broadcasting in the blind,” he is making radio contact without being able to see anything outside the plane. “How do you read?” is a pilot’s way of asking “What do you think?”
I’ve never been out of comm this long. 指communication（飛行員用的俚語）
A pilot’s slangy way of saying communication.
Buckle up（繫好安全帶）, Chuck. It’s gonna get bumpy.（振盪）
“To buckle up” is another way of saying to put on a seat belt.
If a flight is “bumpy,” there is a lot of shaking, or turbulence.
We may have to ditch（棄機）! Mayday, mayday!（呼救！呼救！）
“To ditch” a plane is to jump out and abandon it. “Mayday”
is an official way of screaming for help in an emergency.
Chuck, life vest! 救生背心
A “life vest” is a type of padded shirt that people wear in order to
be able to float on the water after a ship sinks or plane crashes.
Brace for impact! 準備好，（飛機墜海那刻）會有很大的衝擊
“To brace oneself” is to physically or emotionally prepare for something horrible, in this case a plane crash (the “impact” refers
to the moment that the plane crashes into the water).
Chuck becomes a castaway, alone with Mr. Wilson…
查克成為被困在小島上的空難生還者，只有一顆排球（Mr.Wilson）陪伴他。
Over here! SOS, please! 救命（國際通用）
The letters “SOS,” when written out, are the international way
of asking for help (Some people say it means “save our souls”).
Come on, come on! 快，拜託！
The most versatile phrasal verb in English,
in this case used simply to mean “please.”
The time to hesitate is through, come on baby, light my fire!
整句為英文歌”Light my Fire”的歌詞
“To hesitate” is to wait or pause before taking action (These words are
from the song “Light my Fire,” by the 1960s rock group The Doors).
Meteor shower! It’s a signal fire! 流星雨
A “meteor shower” is a shower of bright lights in the sky caused by
falling bits of rock, perhaps from a comet. A “signal fire” is Chuck’s word for the same thing, though this is never used.
You gotta（have got to，一定）love crab; Just in the nick of time.
（Just in time，即時）
Note that “have got to”----> “gotta” in rapid speech. “Just in
the nick of time” is a colloquial way of saying “just in time.”
Coconut is a natural laxative, too. 瀉劑
A “laxative” is a food that causes a person to often go to the bathroom.
Things that Gilligan never told us.
60年代有個電視節目”Gilligans’ Island”描述七個被困在荒島上的人之生活
This is a reference to the 1960s TV show “Gilligans’ Island,” which
was about seven people who were stuck on a deserted island.
400 miles squared（平方）. That’s 160,000 square miles times pi.（）
Two math terms: A number “squared” is that number multiplied by itself. “Pi” is the famous number that refers to the number of times that the radius of a circle will go around the diameter of a circle (3.14…).
This tooth is just killing me. 好痛
If something is “killing you,” it is hurting you very much.
And just think, I used to avoid going to the dentist like the plague. 黑死病
The “plague” is the black death that killed millions in Europe in the 1300s (People who really want to avoid doing something try to “avoid it like the plague”).
I put off（拖延）every chance I got…now, what I
wouldn’t give to have a dentist in this cave.（我什麼都願意給）
“To put off’ something is to postpone it, or decide to do it later.
“What I wouldn’t give” is a stylistic way of saying “I would give anything if I could…”
You want to hear something funny? Back home in Memphis, my dentist’s name is Dr. James Spalding.
查克向他的排球Wilson說一件好玩的事，他在家鄉看的牙醫姓 Spalding，而Wilson和Spalding恰巧是美國最大的兩家運動器材製造商。
Chuck is talking to Wilson the volleyball, and he’s noting that his dentist is named Spalding; The two biggest American sport and ball manufacturers are the Wilson and Spalding companies.
Bakersfield! 加州中部的一個小城市
A small city in central California.
44 lashings. 繩索（不常用此字）
A rarely used word for a knot or rope or anything used to tie.
We’re going to have to make a hell of a lot of rope.
英文常以hell加入句中以加強語氣
A colloquial expression that adds emphasis or emotion.
arch and April are our best chances for the high tides and ocean breezes. 漲潮
“High tides” are those times at the beach when the water has risen up deep into the sands (which would make it easier to sail away).
We need 425 feet of good rope plus another 50 feet for miscellaneous.
雜七雜八的東西
A key word that means various or diverse things.
Round it off to 475 feet of good rope. 粗略估算
“To round off” a number is to estimate to the nearest
big number (i.e.…498 is usually rounded off to 500).
We’re going to be short. 這樣並不夠
“We’re not going to have enough.”
Do you have to keep bringing that up? Can’t we just forget it? 提起那件事
“To bring up” something in a conversation is to start to talk about it.
You were right…it wasn’t going to be a quick little snap. 容易完成的事
A “quick little snap” is a slangy way of referring to something that is very easy to do (A ‘snap” is a brief and sudden sound, such as the type that is made when you forcefully close a book).
It was the only option I had at the time. 選擇
A good word for a choice or possibility.
What’s your point? 你想說什麼？
“What are you trying to say?”
We might just make it! Did that thought ever cross your brain? 做到
In this case, “to make it” means to survive or succeed.
Regardless, I would rather take my chances out there on
the ocean than to stay here and die on this shithole island. （俚）爛的
A rarely used but interesting slang word for a small and horrible place.
Never again! 千萬不要再發生！
A common expression that is used to express the desire that something terrible that was done in the past can be allowed to happen again.
I’ll do all the paddling（划槳）! You just hang on!（抓緊）
“To paddle” a boat is to move it forward while using
oars (wooden sticks) to push it through the water.
After four long years, Chuck starts a new life.
四年後，查克終於回到文明世界，開始另一段不同的生活。
Dr. Pepper. 一種頗受歡迎的汽水
A popular soft drink.
Here’s the drill. The plane pulls in, we get off. （俚）計劃
“The drill” is a slangy way of referring to a precise plan
of action that everybody involved should know very well.
There’s a ceremony（典禮，儀式）right there in the hanger.（停機坪）
A “ceremony” is an official or formal set of public acts or procedures, in this case to honor Chuck. A “hanger” is a very big building in which airplanes are parked so they can be repaired.
What in the world am I going to say to her? 究竟（用以強調語氣）
A curious filler expression added to WH questions
to show emotion such as excitement, surprise or fear.
We had a funeral, a coffin（棺材）and a gravestone.（墓碑）
A “coffin” is the box that human bodies are buried in, and a “gravestone” is the stone with writing carved on it that is placed in a cemetery where a person is buried.
A cell phone, a beeper. 呼叫器
A device, like a pager, that lets people
know when others want to talk to them.
That was a terrible and tragic day. 悲慘的
A powerful adjective that refers to something
horrible that causes great pain or suffering.
I actually did root canal on you about 5 years ago. 牙根導管術
A dental procedure in which dentists operate below the teeth.
Kelly, she’s had it rough. She’s…sort of lost. 很不好過
If a person has “had it rough,” they have had a difficult life
(And thus in this case, she is emotionally lost or confused).
I have to brief this man in his meetings 很快地說明某事（作動詞用）
tomorrow with the accountants and attorneys.
“To brief” a person is to tell them the most important facts (It is often done before the person has a meeting or is going to give a speech).
If you need anything, just sign for it. 簽帳即可，我們會幫你付款。
This is a way of saying “You sign the bill and we’ll pay for it.”
It takes a lot of paperwork to bring back a man. 文件處理程序
“Paperwork” refers to official papers and forms that are usually produced and filled out in an office. In this case, “to bring back a man” means to officially declare them alive, after having been declared dead.
Chuck and Kelly face the passage of time….
查克和凱利回顧從前，也面對這四年來的改變。
It’s a nice house. :: We got a nice mortgage, too. 可關的房屋貸款
A “mortgage” is the monthly payment that people make to the bank
in order to pay off the money they borrowed to buy their house.
The second sentence is Kelly’s way of saying their mortgage is a lot.
She’s a beautiful little girl. :: She’s a handful. 很難帶的小孩
If a child is “a handful,” it’s a lot of work to take care of.
Let’s get one thing straight here; We have a 我想搞清楚一件事
Pro Football team now, but they’re in Nashville?
“Let’s get one thing straight” is a way of saying
that “we need to talk directly and honestly.”
They went to the Super Bowl last year! 美式橄欖球冠軍賽，為每年一大盛事。
The “Super Bowl” is the championship game in American
football and the most watched sporting event in the United States.
They almost won by one yard! One lousy yard! 可笑的一碼球
“Lousy” is a good word that means of poor quality, or in this
case, insignificant or stupid. A “yard” is a distance of three feet.
I got whole milk（全脂）, 2% （2%脂）and non-fat（脫脂）. I don’t have half and half.（一半牛奶，一半奶精，十分容易發胖的飲法）
Milk can be whole (3% fat), 2% fat, 1% fat, or non-fat.
“Half and half” is half milk and half cream (and very fattening!)
That will do fine. 可以，很好
One way of saying “that’s good.”
What happened to you becoming a professor?
You’re not Dr. Kelly Frears-Lovett? 通常以Dr.頭銜來稱呼有博士學位的人
Note that when a person gets a Ph.D. degree, they are given
the honorary title of Dr., though this is rarely used in practice.
When your plane went down, everything just sort of got put on hold.
暫放了下來
“To put a plan on hold” is to delay doing it until
the situation becomes clearer or easier to deal with.
I think about taking it up again. 重新再來過
“To take up” a plan is to begin to do it.
I kept the picture. It was all faded. 褪色
If a photograph is “faded,” it has lost it’s color
and newness, and looks degraded or old.
That’s a family heirloom and it should stay in your family. 傳家寶
A “family heirloom” is a small object, such as a watch or ring,
that has been passed down from one generation to the next.
They said they never figured out what caused the crash. 弄清楚
“To figure out” a mystery or question is to solve or understand it.
Probably some mislabeled（標記錯誤的）hazardous（危險的）material caught fire.
If some product is “mislabeled,” it is wrapped in packaging that says it is something that it is not. If a material is “hazardous,” it is dangerous.
You drifted about 500 miles; This is where your 漂流
island was, about 600 miles South of the Cook Islands.
“To drift” on the water is to slowly float
away, but with no particular direction.
And there are the search grids. 有座標方格的地圖
A “grid” is a map with many squares drawn on it
that allow you to quickly identify where something is.
You kept our car; All right, now this is weird. 奇怪的
An excellent word that means strange or bizarre.
Let me get some stuff out of the back. 東西
A critical word that generally means “things,” though note that
this can refer to anything from physical objects to emotions.
You’re the love of my life. 一生所愛
A very romantic and poetic way of telling a person that they are the most important person they have ever been with, or ever will be with.
Everyone said I had to let you go. 將你遺忘
In this case, to “let go” of a person is to emotionally
accept that they can no longer be a part of your life.
Chuck prepares for an uncertain future….
查克準備面對他的未知未來
I was going to get sick or injured or something. 受傷
If a person is “injured,” they have been
physically hurt, often in an accident.
I made a rope and went up to the summit（山頂）to hang myself. 吊死自己
The “summit” of a mountain is its highest point. “To hang oneself”
is a common form of suicide in which the person puts a rope around their neck after hanging it from a tree or the ceiling.
The weight of the log snapped the limb of the tree. 木頭的重量折斷了樹枝
A “log” is a thick piece of wood. If something “snaps,” it suddenly breaks into two pieces. The “limb” of a tree refers to its branches.
This is Chuck’s way of explaining why he was not able to hang himself.
All my logic said I would never see this place again. 理性，邏輯
“Logic” is reason or rational thought. Chuck is explaining
how he thought he would probably die on the island.
The tide（潮水） came in and gave me a sail.（帆）
The “tide” is the rise and fall of the water over time as it hits the beach.
A “sail” is a piece of cloth or material placed on a boat that allows it to be moved forward by the wind.
I’m so sad that I don’t have Kelly, but I’m so
grateful that she was with me on that island. 感激
“Grateful” is a good alternative to appreciative. This is Chuck’s way of saying that it was the memory of Kelly that motivated him to keep alive on the island.
Tomorrow the sun will rise; who knows what the tide could bring?
明天太陽升起時潮水又會帶來什麼？（查克以此表達未來是不可預測的）
Chuck’s way of saying that nobody
knows what will happen in the future.
“Return to Sender, Address unknown.” 一首貓王著名歌曲中的歌詞
The words of a famous Elvis Presley song.
You look lost…where are you headed? 你打算往哪裡去？
If a person is “headed,” somewhere, that is where they plan to go.
I was just about to figure that out. 搞清楚
“To figure out” a question is to find the answer or solution to it.
This road here will hook you up（連接）with the I-40 East.（40號州際公路往東）Amarillo, Flagstaff…California.
If a road “hooks up” with another, it is connected to it, or leads into it.
“I-40” is a short way of referring to an Interstate Highway (#40). Amarillo is a town in Texas, and Flagstaff is a town in Arizona.
You’ll find a whole lot of nothing all the way to Canada. 一望無際
A poetic way of saying “nothing.”
Cast Away
Possible Topics for ESL Class Discussion
1) If you found yourself like Chuck, suddenly alone on that island,
would you try to kill yourself? If so, after how long?
2) What would be harder?---The physical challenge of getting enough
food and water, or the emotional challenge of being constantly alone?
3) What would you have done if you were in Kelly’s situation at the end of the movie?
4) What would be the hardest part about being out of touch with society?
5) What did you like and not like about this movie?
** This learning sheet is produced by Raymond Weschler from eslnotes.com. The Chinese part was written by Wen-lin Chen from the Language Center, National Central University, Taiwan. If you copy from this learning sheet, please acknowledge the source. Thanks.
(Drama) (2000)
© 2001 by Raymond Weschler
Major Characters
Chuck Noland…………………………………………………..Tom Hanks
A manager for the Federal Express Delivery Company (“Fed Ex”), who lives in Memphis, Tennessee, but travels all over the world for his job. A very nice, smart and resourceful man who is always fighting the passage of time.
Kelly Frears………………………………………………………..Helen Hunt
Chuck’s charming girlfriend, who used to work for Fed Ex,
but who is now working on her Ph.D. degree.
Stan……………….…………………………………………………..Nick Searly
A friend of Chuck’s at Fed Ex, whose wife is dying of cancer.
Plot Summary
This is the story of Chuck Nolan, a midlevel manager for the Fed Ex Delivery Company, which is one of the two biggest delivery companies in the United States. Chuck lives in Memphis, Tennessee, where Fed Ex is based. He is planning to marry his girlfriend, Kelly, who is finishing up a Ph.D. (The highest academic degree). Kelly loves Chuck very much, but is frustrated by how much he works, especially since he travels overseas a lot. When the film opens, Chuck is helping Fed Ex set up their office in Moscow, Russia.
One day while flying to Australia, Chuck’s Fed Ex plane crashes during a storm, and as the only survivor, he suddenly finds himself on a very small and empty island, with virtually nothing to eat except crabs and coconuts. As the days turn into months and then years, Chuck learns to physically survive, but he must also face the emotional challenge of being completely alone (except for the company of “Wilson,” who is in fact nothing more than a volleyball with a painted face).
After several years, Chuck decides to risk his life in a courageous attempt to sail off the island. If he fails, he will drown in the ocean, but even if he is successful, he will face the new challenge of returning to friends and family that thought he had died several years earlier….
A note on the title: A “castaway” is a person stuck on a small island, usually
after a ship sinks. “To cast away” something is to throw it away.
電影片名註解：castaway做名詞用時，指被困在小島上的人（通常是他的船遇難沉沒之後。）cast away當動詞時，指將某事、某物丟棄。
Some Words and Expressions that You May not Know
Chuck teaches the Russians about Fed Ex and time….
查克向俄國人介紹聯邦快遞公司，並說明自己對時間的理念。
I’ll have another pick-up for you on Thursday.
取件（當名詞，已成為快遞公司的普遍用語。）
In the Fed Ex or delivery business, this is a noun
that refers to the act of picking up a package.
Time rules over us without mercy, not caring whether we are healthy or ill…
無憐憫之心
“Mercy” is the willingness to forgive or not punish, or perhaps another word for compassion.
We live or die by the clock.。查克的生活哲學，他認為時間非常重要
This is Chuck’s philosophy of life; Time is
the most critical factor in work and life.
We never allow ourselves the sin of losing track of time.
亦是查克的生活哲學，他認為失去時間的觀念是不可原諒的。
A “sin” is a religious word that refers to an evil
or immoral act that God does not approve of.
50,000,000 Elvis fans can’t be wrong! 指Elvis Presley，貓王
The name of a well known Elvis Presley album.
I took the liberty（擅自作主）of sending this to myself; I fed ex’d （快遞，當動詞）it before I left Memphis.
“To take the liberty” of doing something is a fancy way of saying to do it, even if others may not approve. Note that “to fed-ex” a package has become a common verb, meaning to send it by fed-ex.
It is a clock that I started at absolute zero hour.格林威治時間午夜零時
A technical way of referring to midnight at Greenwich, England.
Technical drawings. Architectural plans.建築圖稿
These are official drawings that architects or engineers
design in order to build houses or other buildings.
87 hours is a shameful outrage!（不可原諒的，令人憤怒的狀況）This is just an egg-timer.（沙漏計時器）
“Shameful” is a strong adjective meaning very badly done. An “outrage” is a very bad, cruel or scandalous action that causes great anger. An “egg-timer” is a device used to measure the passage of a few minutes time, usually by having sand fall through a tube of glass.
Adoption papers.領養文件
The official papers that are needed in order to adopt a child.
87 hours is an eternity! 永恆（在此指很長一段時間）
A great word which means forever, or perhaps until the end of time.
The cosmos were created in less time.宇宙
A scientific word that refers to the entire universe.
Wars have been fought and nations toppled in 87 hours! 被摧毀
“To topple” an enemy is to crush or completely defeat them.
When his truck broke down, he stole a boy’s bicycle to do his delivery.
（車子）壞了
If any kind of machine “breaks down,” it stops working.
15 minutes! Crunch time!重要時刻
A slangy way of referring to a very important time in which people must act very quickly and effectively in order to accomplish a goal.
The truck in Red Square（蘇俄的紅場）is stuck!（卡住、陷住了）
“Red Square” is the historic center of Moscow, Russia.
If a car or truck is “stuck,” it will not move.
Tick tock, tick tock! 時鐘發出的滴答聲（查克以此要大家動作快）
The sound that a clock makes. Chuck’s way of telling people to hurry.
I’m doing the sorts（郵件分類）in the middle of Red Square….in the shadow of Lenin’s tomb.（列寧的墳墓）
“To sort” mail is to organize it, though note that in the fed-ex world,
it can be used as a noun! “Lenin’s tomb” is where the Russian leader’s body has been housed since 1924 (Thousands still visit it each day).
I’m outta（out of，離開）here in 2 minutes and I’m picking up the sweep through Paris.（在此指飛機）
Note that “out of” becomes “outta” in rapid speech. “I’m outta here” is a slangy way of saying “I’m leaving.” In this case, “the sweep” is a plane that travels through Paris on the way to the US (but this is never used).
Try U.P.S. 一快遞公司，聯邦快遞最主要的競爭對手
United parcel Service, which is Fed Ex’s main competition.
With this extra head wind（飛行或航行時遇到的逆風）, are we going
to be able to push it and make the sort?
“Head wind” is wind that blows against the direction of a plane or boat.
Remember that in the fed-ex world, a “sort” is the act of organizing packages (Chuck is asking if they can deliver the packages in time).
Jack keeps getting certified to fly? 有資格
“To certify” a person to do something like fly a plane is to officially approve of them doing it, often by giving them a license to do it.
That’s the spirit! Relentless is our goal! 就是這種精神
“That’s the spirit” is a way of encouraging a person after they show they are going to try and do something difficult. Note that “relentless,” an adjective meaning to continue without rest, is used here as a noun.
What do you expect from the guy who stole a crippled kid’s bicycle? 殘障的
If a person is “crippled,” they are physically disabled or handicapped
(This word is generally considered old fashioned).
2, 4, 6, 8 minutes late. Next thing you know, we’re the US mail.
This is Chuck’s way of saying that if they don’t do better,
Fed Ex will be as inefficient as the U.S. Mail service.
查克以美國郵政做比喻，因為美國郵政服務一向給人效率不佳的印象。
Those Ruskies would be walking on water right now. 俄國人（俚語）
A silly and old-fashioned way of referring to Russians.
It’s a 1992 full-bodied grape juice. 香醇的（通常用以形容酒）
“Full-bodied” is a fancy way of referring to the taste of good wine,
but it is never used for juice, unless the person is not being serious.
See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.
An expression that can be used to refer to people who refuse to see horrible things happening around them, thus making it easier for abusive governments to repress their people.
She went to the doctor. It wasn’t metastasized. （指癌細胞）擴散
A medical word that refers to cancer that
has spread to different parts of the body.
It’s just kind of wait and see. 只能看往後發展再說
If a person has a “wait and see” attitude, they have decided not to
take any more action until they see what happens in the future.
I’m going to come by（過去拜訪）and see her on my next layover.
（在此指出差之前）
“To come by” a person’s house is to visit. A “layover” is usually a city airport where a plane lands before going on to the final destination.
He’s a systems analyst.（電腦系統分析師） He played centerfield （中野手）
for us in the softball tournament（壘球賽）last labor day.（美國的勞動節）
A “systems analyst” is a person who works with computer networks.
“Centerfield” is a position in baseball (and softball), and a “tournament” is a series of games to see who has the best team.
“Labor Day” is an American holiday held to celebrate workers.
That’s beside the point. 和主題無關
If something you say is “beside the point,” it is not
relevant to the main part of the conversation.
Chuck returns to Kelly, but is soon off again on another quick trip.
查克回到凱莉身邊，但很快的又前往另一次公差旅行
Is Kelly Frears around? :: She’s copying her dissertation. 博士論文
A “dissertation” is a major research paper that is
written in order to get the graduate degree of Ph.D.
You’re home. :: Home, indeed. 確實
A British word that means certainly, without question or for sure.
He’s been declared physically fit（適合）to fly; Santa got
checked out（體檢）by doctors at the VA hospital
（指Veterans Administration，退役軍人會）
If a person is “fit” to do something, they are physically able to do it.
“To check out” a person is to carefully examine them. A “VA” hospital is run by the Veterans Administration, which serves people who served in the military.
After they declared the jolly old elf（指聖誕老人）in tip top shape,
（身體狀況良好）Santa took off into the wild blue yonder.（遙遠的天際）
“Jolly” is an old fashioned word for very happy, and an elf is a mythical children’s character, like Santa Claus. If a person is in “tip top shape,” they are in excellent physical health. “The wild blue yonder” is a literary way of referring to a place in the distance that is very far away.
You’ve got to be in the market for some of those candied hams. 蜜汁火腿
If you are “in the market” for something, you want to buy it.
“Candied hams” are a type of sugar-covered sweet ham
that is popular for holidays
When I was there we did 2,000,000 and
we thought that was a big deal.（了不起）The glory days.
（指過去光榮的時光）
If something is “a big deal,” it is considered important or impressive.
A Person’s “glory days” are those days in the past when they were at their best or most impressive.
And Fred Smith（聯邦快遞的創始者）had that cardtable bronzed.（上銅漆）
“To bronze” a piece of furniture is to cover it with a shiny brown coating that will make it last a very long time (Fred Smith is the founder and head corporate officer of the Fed Ex company).
The new hub in Anchorage.（航空公司用以作為管理中樞的機場）
A “hub” is an airport that an airline uses as a center of its operations, from which it flies to lots of other cities (Anchorage is the biggest city in the state of Alaska).
It’s state of the art（最新最好的科技產品）and a perfect marriage
between technology and systems management.
If something is “state of the art,” it is made with the very latest and best technology. “Systems management” is the science of managing networks made of either people or computer technologies.
Why don’t you make an honest women out of Kelly? 為什麼不跟Kelly結婚？
This is a silly way of asking Chuck to marry Kelly.
Kelly is still recovering from that failed relationship with that parolee. 假釋犯
A “parolee” is a person who was in prison but has been released “on parole,” which means they can stay free so long as they agree to certain conditions, such as reporting to a parole officer once a week.
I knew it had something to do with swearing to tell the truth.
（在法庭上）發誓說實話
In a court of law, a person “swears to tell the truth,” which is a dramatic way of saying that they promise to tell the truth.
He tripped on a curb holding the door open for me.
人行道和馬路間微突起的分界
A “curb” is the edge of a sidewalk, where it meets the street.
Kelly just can’t see being with a man who wears a pager to bed. 呼叫器
A pager is a small electronic device that people wear on their belts that allows them to know when somebody wants to talk to them (They are no longer as important since cell phones are now so common).
When you wear it to bed, I hope you get one of those things that go vibrating.（振動）:: I’m not touching that.（我不說了，俚語用法）
“To vibrate” is to shake gently back and forth. Here. “I’m not
touching that” is a slangy way of saying “I refuse to talk about it.”
When are you defending your dissertation? 你何時論文口試？
Note that a student “defends” their Ph.D. dissertation in an official ceremony in which professors ask them questions on what they
have written.
Merry Christmas! :: I thought you were going to stiff her.（俚語）騙財
“To stiff” a person is a slangy way of saying to cheat them out of money, or perhaps to refuse to give them something they deserve.
Is it a test（產品上市前的試用品）fishing line（釣魚線）or something?
A “test” product is one that is used just to see if the product works
like it is supposed to. A “fishing line” is used to catch fish.
I love the wrapping. 包裝
“Wrapping” is the paper that covers a box.
My granddaddy used it on the Southern Pacific. 橫貫美國的主要鐵路
The “Southern Pacific” is the name of a major railroad that crosses the US.
You can program it so it vibrates. 設定
“To program” a watch, computer or other machine
is to set it up in such a way that it does what you want.
Sorry about the hand towels. You’re hard to shop for. 很難為你買東西
If a person is “hard to shop for,” it’s difficult to know what kind of present you should get them because it’s not clear what they would want (or perhaps what you know they want is difficult to find).
Take it and hold on to it so that you can open it on New Year’s Eve. 留著
“To hold on to” something is to keep it indefinitely.
Is all this turbulence（亂流）from Santa and those 8 tiny reindeer?
（為聖誕老人拉雪橇的馴鹿）
“Turbulence” is the violent shaking that planes sometimes experience
when flying. “Tiny” means very small, and a “reindeer” is a type of deer that people associate with Santa Claus.
Tell them we’re deviating South for weather. 脫離原定航道
“To deviate” from a planned route is to move in another direction.
I got us plotted（在地圖上找到我們的位置）; We’re 200 miles South of our original course.（原定的航道）
“To plot” a plane on a map is to locate exactly where it is.
A plane’s “course” is the planned direction it is supposed to take.
Continue plotting and check contingency procedures. 備用計劃
“Contingency procedures” are back-up plans that are taken if the original plan can no longer work because of a change in the situation.
Broadcasting in the blind; How do you read?
什麼都看不到，我們試著以無線電和外面聯繫，你覺得如何？
If a pilot is “broadcasting in the blind,” he is making radio contact without being able to see anything outside the plane. “How do you read?” is a pilot’s way of asking “What do you think?”
I’ve never been out of comm this long. 指communication（飛行員用的俚語）
A pilot’s slangy way of saying communication.
Buckle up（繫好安全帶）, Chuck. It’s gonna get bumpy.（振盪）
“To buckle up” is another way of saying to put on a seat belt.
If a flight is “bumpy,” there is a lot of shaking, or turbulence.
We may have to ditch（棄機）! Mayday, mayday!（呼救！呼救！）
“To ditch” a plane is to jump out and abandon it. “Mayday”
is an official way of screaming for help in an emergency.
Chuck, life vest! 救生背心
A “life vest” is a type of padded shirt that people wear in order to
be able to float on the water after a ship sinks or plane crashes.
Brace for impact! 準備好，（飛機墜海那刻）會有很大的衝擊
“To brace oneself” is to physically or emotionally prepare for something horrible, in this case a plane crash (the “impact” refers
to the moment that the plane crashes into the water).
Chuck becomes a castaway, alone with Mr. Wilson…
查克成為被困在小島上的空難生還者，只有一顆排球（Mr.Wilson）陪伴他。
Over here! SOS, please! 救命（國際通用）
The letters “SOS,” when written out, are the international way
of asking for help (Some people say it means “save our souls”).
Come on, come on! 快，拜託！
The most versatile phrasal verb in English,
in this case used simply to mean “please.”
The time to hesitate is through, come on baby, light my fire!
整句為英文歌”Light my Fire”的歌詞
“To hesitate” is to wait or pause before taking action (These words are
from the song “Light my Fire,” by the 1960s rock group The Doors).
Meteor shower! It’s a signal fire! 流星雨
A “meteor shower” is a shower of bright lights in the sky caused by
falling bits of rock, perhaps from a comet. A “signal fire” is Chuck’s word for the same thing, though this is never used.
You gotta（have got to，一定）love crab; Just in the nick of time.
（Just in time，即時）
Note that “have got to”----> “gotta” in rapid speech. “Just in
the nick of time” is a colloquial way of saying “just in time.”
Coconut is a natural laxative, too. 瀉劑
A “laxative” is a food that causes a person to often go to the bathroom.
Things that Gilligan never told us.
60年代有個電視節目”Gilligans’ Island”描述七個被困在荒島上的人之生活
This is a reference to the 1960s TV show “Gilligans’ Island,” which
was about seven people who were stuck on a deserted island.
400 miles squared（平方）. That’s 160,000 square miles times pi.（）
Two math terms: A number “squared” is that number multiplied by itself. “Pi” is the famous number that refers to the number of times that the radius of a circle will go around the diameter of a circle (3.14…).
This tooth is just killing me. 好痛
If something is “killing you,” it is hurting you very much.
And just think, I used to avoid going to the dentist like the plague. 黑死病
The “plague” is the black death that killed millions in Europe in the 1300s (People who really want to avoid doing something try to “avoid it like the plague”).
I put off（拖延）every chance I got…now, what I
wouldn’t give to have a dentist in this cave.（我什麼都願意給）
“To put off’ something is to postpone it, or decide to do it later.
“What I wouldn’t give” is a stylistic way of saying “I would give anything if I could…”
You want to hear something funny? Back home in Memphis, my dentist’s name is Dr. James Spalding.
查克向他的排球Wilson說一件好玩的事，他在家鄉看的牙醫姓 Spalding，而Wilson和Spalding恰巧是美國最大的兩家運動器材製造商。
Chuck is talking to Wilson the volleyball, and he’s noting that his dentist is named Spalding; The two biggest American sport and ball manufacturers are the Wilson and Spalding companies.
Bakersfield! 加州中部的一個小城市
A small city in central California.
44 lashings. 繩索（不常用此字）
A rarely used word for a knot or rope or anything used to tie.
We’re going to have to make a hell of a lot of rope.
英文常以hell加入句中以加強語氣
A colloquial expression that adds emphasis or emotion.
arch and April are our best chances for the high tides and ocean breezes. 漲潮
“High tides” are those times at the beach when the water has risen up deep into the sands (which would make it easier to sail away).
We need 425 feet of good rope plus another 50 feet for miscellaneous.
雜七雜八的東西
A key word that means various or diverse things.
Round it off to 475 feet of good rope. 粗略估算
“To round off” a number is to estimate to the nearest
big number (i.e.…498 is usually rounded off to 500).
We’re going to be short. 這樣並不夠
“We’re not going to have enough.”
Do you have to keep bringing that up? Can’t we just forget it? 提起那件事
“To bring up” something in a conversation is to start to talk about it.
You were right…it wasn’t going to be a quick little snap. 容易完成的事
A “quick little snap” is a slangy way of referring to something that is very easy to do (A ‘snap” is a brief and sudden sound, such as the type that is made when you forcefully close a book).
It was the only option I had at the time. 選擇
A good word for a choice or possibility.
What’s your point? 你想說什麼？
“What are you trying to say?”
We might just make it! Did that thought ever cross your brain? 做到
In this case, “to make it” means to survive or succeed.
Regardless, I would rather take my chances out there on
the ocean than to stay here and die on this shithole island. （俚）爛的
A rarely used but interesting slang word for a small and horrible place.
Never again! 千萬不要再發生！
A common expression that is used to express the desire that something terrible that was done in the past can be allowed to happen again.
I’ll do all the paddling（划槳）! You just hang on!（抓緊）
“To paddle” a boat is to move it forward while using
oars (wooden sticks) to push it through the water.
After four long years, Chuck starts a new life.
四年後，查克終於回到文明世界，開始另一段不同的生活。
Dr. Pepper. 一種頗受歡迎的汽水
A popular soft drink.
Here’s the drill. The plane pulls in, we get off. （俚）計劃
“The drill” is a slangy way of referring to a precise plan
of action that everybody involved should know very well.
There’s a ceremony（典禮，儀式）right there in the hanger.（停機坪）
A “ceremony” is an official or formal set of public acts or procedures, in this case to honor Chuck. A “hanger” is a very big building in which airplanes are parked so they can be repaired.
What in the world am I going to say to her? 究竟（用以強調語氣）
A curious filler expression added to WH questions
to show emotion such as excitement, surprise or fear.
We had a funeral, a coffin（棺材）and a gravestone.（墓碑）
A “coffin” is the box that human bodies are buried in, and a “gravestone” is the stone with writing carved on it that is placed in a cemetery where a person is buried.
A cell phone, a beeper. 呼叫器
A device, like a pager, that lets people
know when others want to talk to them.
That was a terrible and tragic day. 悲慘的
A powerful adjective that refers to something
horrible that causes great pain or suffering.
I actually did root canal on you about 5 years ago. 牙根導管術
A dental procedure in which dentists operate below the teeth.
Kelly, she’s had it rough. She’s…sort of lost. 很不好過
If a person has “had it rough,” they have had a difficult life
(And thus in this case, she is emotionally lost or confused).
I have to brief this man in his meetings 很快地說明某事（作動詞用）
tomorrow with the accountants and attorneys.
“To brief” a person is to tell them the most important facts (It is often done before the person has a meeting or is going to give a speech).
If you need anything, just sign for it. 簽帳即可，我們會幫你付款。
This is a way of saying “You sign the bill and we’ll pay for it.”
It takes a lot of paperwork to bring back a man. 文件處理程序
“Paperwork” refers to official papers and forms that are usually produced and filled out in an office. In this case, “to bring back a man” means to officially declare them alive, after having been declared dead.
Chuck and Kelly face the passage of time….
查克和凱利回顧從前，也面對這四年來的改變。
It’s a nice house. :: We got a nice mortgage, too. 可關的房屋貸款
A “mortgage” is the monthly payment that people make to the bank
in order to pay off the money they borrowed to buy their house.
The second sentence is Kelly’s way of saying their mortgage is a lot.
She’s a beautiful little girl. :: She’s a handful. 很難帶的小孩
If a child is “a handful,” it’s a lot of work to take care of.
Let’s get one thing straight here; We have a 我想搞清楚一件事
Pro Football team now, but they’re in Nashville?
“Let’s get one thing straight” is a way of saying
that “we need to talk directly and honestly.”
They went to the Super Bowl last year! 美式橄欖球冠軍賽，為每年一大盛事。
The “Super Bowl” is the championship game in American
football and the most watched sporting event in the United States.
They almost won by one yard! One lousy yard! 可笑的一碼球
“Lousy” is a good word that means of poor quality, or in this
case, insignificant or stupid. A “yard” is a distance of three feet.
I got whole milk（全脂）, 2% （2%脂）and non-fat（脫脂）. I don’t have half and half.（一半牛奶，一半奶精，十分容易發胖的飲法）
Milk can be whole (3% fat), 2% fat, 1% fat, or non-fat.
“Half and half” is half milk and half cream (and very fattening!)
That will do fine. 可以，很好
One way of saying “that’s good.”
What happened to you becoming a professor?
You’re not Dr. Kelly Frears-Lovett? 通常以Dr.頭銜來稱呼有博士學位的人
Note that when a person gets a Ph.D. degree, they are given
the honorary title of Dr., though this is rarely used in practice.
When your plane went down, everything just sort of got put on hold.
暫放了下來
“To put a plan on hold” is to delay doing it until
the situation becomes clearer or easier to deal with.
I think about taking it up again. 重新再來過
“To take up” a plan is to begin to do it.
I kept the picture. It was all faded. 褪色
If a photograph is “faded,” it has lost it’s color
and newness, and looks degraded or old.
That’s a family heirloom and it should stay in your family. 傳家寶
A “family heirloom” is a small object, such as a watch or ring,
that has been passed down from one generation to the next.
They said they never figured out what caused the crash. 弄清楚
“To figure out” a mystery or question is to solve or understand it.
Probably some mislabeled（標記錯誤的）hazardous（危險的）material caught fire.
If some product is “mislabeled,” it is wrapped in packaging that says it is something that it is not. If a material is “hazardous,” it is dangerous.
You drifted about 500 miles; This is where your 漂流
island was, about 600 miles South of the Cook Islands.
“To drift” on the water is to slowly float
away, but with no particular direction.
And there are the search grids. 有座標方格的地圖
A “grid” is a map with many squares drawn on it
that allow you to quickly identify where something is.
You kept our car; All right, now this is weird. 奇怪的
An excellent word that means strange or bizarre.
Let me get some stuff out of the back. 東西
A critical word that generally means “things,” though note that
this can refer to anything from physical objects to emotions.
You’re the love of my life. 一生所愛
A very romantic and poetic way of telling a person that they are the most important person they have ever been with, or ever will be with.
Everyone said I had to let you go. 將你遺忘
In this case, to “let go” of a person is to emotionally
accept that they can no longer be a part of your life.
Chuck prepares for an uncertain future….
查克準備面對他的未知未來
I was going to get sick or injured or something. 受傷
If a person is “injured,” they have been
physically hurt, often in an accident.
I made a rope and went up to the summit（山頂）to hang myself. 吊死自己
The “summit” of a mountain is its highest point. “To hang oneself”
is a common form of suicide in which the person puts a rope around their neck after hanging it from a tree or the ceiling.
The weight of the log snapped the limb of the tree. 木頭的重量折斷了樹枝
A “log” is a thick piece of wood. If something “snaps,” it suddenly breaks into two pieces. The “limb” of a tree refers to its branches.
This is Chuck’s way of explaining why he was not able to hang himself.
All my logic said I would never see this place again. 理性，邏輯
“Logic” is reason or rational thought. Chuck is explaining
how he thought he would probably die on the island.
The tide（潮水） came in and gave me a sail.（帆）
The “tide” is the rise and fall of the water over time as it hits the beach.
A “sail” is a piece of cloth or material placed on a boat that allows it to be moved forward by the wind.
I’m so sad that I don’t have Kelly, but I’m so
grateful that she was with me on that island. 感激
“Grateful” is a good alternative to appreciative. This is Chuck’s way of saying that it was the memory of Kelly that motivated him to keep alive on the island.
Tomorrow the sun will rise; who knows what the tide could bring?
明天太陽升起時潮水又會帶來什麼？（查克以此表達未來是不可預測的）
Chuck’s way of saying that nobody
knows what will happen in the future.
“Return to Sender, Address unknown.” 一首貓王著名歌曲中的歌詞
The words of a famous Elvis Presley song.
You look lost…where are you headed? 你打算往哪裡去？
If a person is “headed,” somewhere, that is where they plan to go.
I was just about to figure that out. 搞清楚
“To figure out” a question is to find the answer or solution to it.
This road here will hook you up（連接）with the I-40 East.（40號州際公路往東）Amarillo, Flagstaff…California.
If a road “hooks up” with another, it is connected to it, or leads into it.
“I-40” is a short way of referring to an Interstate Highway (#40). Amarillo is a town in Texas, and Flagstaff is a town in Arizona.
You’ll find a whole lot of nothing all the way to Canada. 一望無際
A poetic way of saying “nothing.”
Cast Away
Possible Topics for ESL Class Discussion
1) If you found yourself like Chuck, suddenly alone on that island,
would you try to kill yourself? If so, after how long?
2) What would be harder?---The physical challenge of getting enough
food and water, or the emotional challenge of being constantly alone?
3) What would you have done if you were in Kelly’s situation at the end of the movie?
4) What would be the hardest part about being out of touch with society?
5) What did you like and not like about this movie?
** This learning sheet is produced by Raymond Weschler from eslnotes.com. The Chinese part was written by Wen-lin Chen from the Language Center, National Central University, Taiwan. If you copy from this learning sheet, please acknowledge the source. Thanks.
美國心玫瑰情 (American Beauty)
American Beauty
(Drama/Comedy) ( 1998)
© 2000 by Raymond Weschler
This learning sheet is produced by Raymond Weschler from eslnotes.com. The Chinese part and extra exercise was written by Ai-ping Liu from the Language Center, National Central University, Taiwan. If you copy from this learning sheet, please acknowledge the source. Thanks.
Major Characters
Lester (‘Les’) Burnham…………………….Kevin Spacey
An unhappy and frustrated advertising executive whose wife no longer cares about him, and whose daughter almost hates him.
Carolyn Burnham……………………………Annette Benning
Lester’s unhappy wife, who is a struggling real estate agent.
Jane (‘Janie’) Burnham…………………..Thora Birch
Lester and Carol’s 16 year old daughter who is a typically frustrated
and insecure teenager, who strongly dislikes both of her parents.
Angela Hays……………………………………Mena Suvari
Jane’s very pretty friend who wants to be a fashion model, who
is interested in Lester even though that makes Jane very angry.
Ricky Fitts………………………………………Wes Bentley
A gentle but somewhat strange teenager who moves
in next door to the Burnhams, who likes Jane very much.
Colonel Frank Fitts………………………..Chris Cooper
Ricky’s extremely conservative father, a member of the United
States marines, who strongly dislikes drugs and homosexuals.
Barbara Fitts…………………………………..Allison Jannery
Ricky’s quiet and gentle mother, and Frank’s wife.
Buddy Kane………………………………….Peter Gallagher
The top real estate agent in the neighborhood where the
Burnhams live, who decides to have an affair with Carolyn.
Jim Olmeyer………………………………….Scott Bakula
A gay neighbor of the Burnhams who is an attorney.
Jim Berkeley…………………………………..Sam Robards
Jim Olmeyer’s partner, who is an anesthesiologist.
Brad Dupree…………………………………..Barry Del Sherman
An executive at the office where Lester works who
decides to fire him because of his bad attitude.
Plot Summary
This film is the story of the Burnhams, a typical American family that lives in an upper middle class suburb in the state of Connecticut, perhaps an hour or two outside of New York City. Lester Burnham has a pretty wife and daughter, a nice house, and a fairly good paying career, but he is still extremely unhappy. He hates his job, he knows that both his wife and daughter have no respect for him, and he feels he is growing old way too fast.
Carolyn Burnham is also unhappy, in part because she has a very hard time selling houses, and in part because her marriage is horrible and her daughter seems to hate her. Finally, Jane Burnham has her own unhappiness, both because she hates her parents, and more disturbingly, because her best friend and her father seem like they want to sleep with each other. In short, the Burnhams are the classic dysfunctional family.
The Burnhams soon face great challenges when Lester decides to quit his job, Carolyn decides to have an affair with her greatest competition in the real estate business, and Jane falls in love with Ricky, the gentle yet somewhat strange young man who moves in next door. But the greatest crisis comes when Lester decides to recapture his youth by buying cars and drugs from his teen years, and by becoming obsessed with Angela, Jane’s beautiful 16 year old friend. As Lester’s life spins out of control, Jane, Carolyn and even Ricky’s dad find their own reasons why it would be better if Lester were dead….
Some Words and Expressions that You May not Know
Lester introduces us to his family, almost loses
his job, and tries to improve his relationship with Jane.
I need a father who is a role model.
A “role model” is a person who others look up to as an
example of excellent behavior or great accomplishment.
通常指值得效法之人物,典範
Not some horny geek boy who is going to spray his shorts
whenever I bring a girlfriend home from school.
If a person is “horny,” they want to have sex. A “geek” is a socially awkward person, often more at ease with computers than people.
Here, if a man “sprays his shorts,” it’s implied he is getting sexually excited (To spray is to scatter small drops of water, like a garden hose).
指Jane的父親,向怪人一樣,成天只想著與Jane的同班女友Angela發生性關係
“shorts”原意指短褲,此處指容易”性”奮
What a lame-o.
“Lame” is a slang word meaning stupid, bad or ridiculous (as well as injured or disabled). Children will sometimes add the suffix ‘o’ to an adjective like this to turn it into a noun (but this is rare for adults).
“Lame”原指愚笨或荒謬,小孩們常在字尾加上”o”的諧音,指蠢蛋一個
Someone should put him out of his misery.
“To put a person out of their misery” is to kill them, perhaps because they are suffering so much that it’s considered a humane thing to do.
結束某人的苦難,意指殺了某人
Look at me; Jerking off in the shower.
“To jerk off” is the most common slang way of saying to masturbate.
masturbate指自慰
This will be the high point of my day; It’s all down hill from here.
“The high point” of a day or event is the most exciting or best part. If something goes “all down hill from here,” it becomes worse, though note that in the right context, it could mean that it becomes easier!
指一天中最好或最興奮的時刻或處境,從此就走下坡,越來越糟。但也有可能因上下文之不同而指”越來越容易”
The handle on those pruning sheers matches her gardening clogs.
“Pruning shears” are metal tools to cut (or prune) plants and bushes.
“Clogs” are a type of shoe, usually made of wood on the bottom.
前者是修剪花木之工具；而後者是木頭作底之工作鞋。此處Lester無奈且諷刺其妻子連修剪花木之行頭也得搭配好，已顯示其身分地位。
How do you get them to flourish like this? Eggshells and miracle-grow.
If a flower “flourishes,” it grows with strength and beauty.
“Miracle grow” is a well-known product to help plants grow.
花草長的茂盛,而miracle-grow是一種幫助植物生長之肥料之產品名
Angry, insecure, confused. I wish I could tell her
that’s all going to pass, but I don’t want to lie to her.
A person who is “insecure” has little confidence in themselves, and is often nervous around other people. In this case, if a situation “passes,” it goes away or dies out.
覺得沒有自信,沒有”安全感”
Nice going dad!
This is what you say to a person in a joking manner when
they have just dome something very stupid or ridiculous.
反諷某人做了愚蠢荒謬可笑之事
Both my wife and daughter think I’m this gigantic loser.
“Gigantic” is extremely big or huge. In this case, a “loser” is a person
whose life in general is not happy, or who has little good about them.
Lester指出家人都認為他很沒用,一無事處
I didn’t always feel this….sedated.
A person who is “sedated” is sleepy or not
very alert, often because of the effects of a drug.
Lester已對生活備感無趣。因藥物影響或副作用也會有昏昏欲睡的感覺
We’re all under a deadline here.
To be “under a deadline” is to be in a situation where
you have to finish something before a certain time.
指大家都得在期限內完成任務事情,指大家都面臨生活或工作上之壓力
Product launch.
A business expression for the production, distribution and marketing (advertising) for any new product, from software to food.
專指產品的生產,傳銷,市場宣傳之術語,”launch”原指發射
I need to cut corners around here.
If a company has to “cut corners,” it has to reduce the money it spends.
指公司得節省某處的開銷
Times are tight and you got to free up some cash.
In this context, if “times are tight,” there’s little money left. “To free up” cash is to find savings in one area in order to spend it in another.
指所剩不多,手頭很緊
Like the time Mr. Flourney used the
company MasterCard to pay for that hooker.
MasterCard is a very well known brand of credit card.
“Hooker” is a slang word for a prostitute.
用公司的信用卡付錢給妓女
That’s unsubstantiated gossip.
If a piece of news is “unsubstantiated,” it has not been confirmed or verified. “Gossip” is unofficial talk or writing, often about people’s personal lives, and often untrue.
小道八卦,指未經證實之八卦消息,常與個人隱私有關
That’s because Greg has to pay women to fuck him.
“To fuck” a person is a very crude way of saying to have sex with
them (obviously!), but be aware that this word can be used in many grammatically different ways (See ESLnotes for “Dog Day Afternoon”).
A job description mapping out in detail how they contribute.
To “map out” something is to clearly express in writing all
of its important details and how they relate to each other.
指很小心地將細節弄清楚,並仔細地記下來
Management can asses who’s valuable and who is expendable.
“To asses” a situation is to analyze or judge it carefully.
If a person is “expendable,” they are not really needed.
指業界可以評斷員工的價值,expendable指人不被需要,沒有價值
I’m one of the good guys, Les. I’m trying to level with you.
“To level with” a person is to speak with them very honestly, including, if necessary, by telling them unpleasant or bad news.
指真誠對待某人,就算是壞消息,也會真實告訴對方
You don’t think it’s weird and kind of fascist?
“Weird” is an important word that means strange or bizarre (It is widely used in this movie). “Fascist” usually refers to a dictatorial
political system, but note many people use it more generally to refer to any system they think is unfair, such as how people are fired at a job.
weird等同strange或bizarre,皆指某人或事物很怪異。”Fascist”指獨裁統治如法斯司黨,而我們常用此字表示”不公平”,如工作上待遇之不公或被炒魷魚
Let’s just all sell our souls and work for Satan,
because it’s more convenient that way!
A person’s “soul” is the non-physical part of them that lives on after they die, and “Satan” is another name for the devil. If something is “convenient,” it is accessible, easy to reach, or suited to one’s needs.
指把自己的靈魂給賣了而為撒旦工作,乾脆這樣做比較方便。反諷的話
That house would never had sat on the market for six months.
If a house “sits on the market,” it continues to be for sale,
but nobody is willing to pay the price that is being asked.
指房子六個月賣了六個月仍賣不出去
Their Sycamore?! Come on!
A “sycamore” is a type of tree. “Come on “ is the most versatile phrasal verb in English. Here, it means “Stop saying nonsense and be serious.”
A substantial portion of the root structure was on our property!
A “substantial portion” of something is a big part of it. The “root structure” of a tree refers to the part of the tree that grows out under the ground, in search of water and food.
最實質的那一部份其實是我們的房屋底下。影片中指鄰居庭院種的那棵樹其實大多根的部分是在Lester 家下面。此處暗指Carolyn的瑣碎無趣斤斤計較的一面。
I wouldn’t have had the heart to cut down
something if it wasn’t partially mine.
If a person doesn’t “have the heart “ to do something, they don’t have the desire to do it, or they think it would be too cruel to do it.
指不想做某事,或者如果做了的話實在太殘忍了,此處還是在那顆樹的問題上打轉。
Do we always have to listen to this elevator music?
A very negative expression for the type of music that is
played softly in elevators, stores and other public places.
很負面的說法,指責其母親是否一定得忍受那討厭的東西,如電梯內,商店內所撥放之輕音樂
A nutritious but savory meal.
Another word for delicious, or filled with flavor.
不但營養,且美味可口的一餐
No dad, it was spectacular.
A strong adjective meaning excellent, wonderful or amazing.
指棒極了,太好了
They hired this efficiency expert named Brad.
An “efficiency expert” is a person who is hired by a company to
help it be more efficient or productive, so that it can save money.
指公司僱用了一位”效率專家”,顧名思義,其能使員工工作效率提昇或更有生產力為公司省下一筆錢
I mean, hello, you’ve barely even spoken to me for months!
Note that in the right context and when said with a sarcastic or cynical tone of voice, this is a common way to imply that a person is being ridiculous, stupid, or insensitive.
如果用極諷刺或憤世嫉俗之口氣說”Hello”的話,指某人情緒已達荒謬,愚蠢或一點兒也沒反應之地步,影片中Jane對父親提醒其親子關係已十分糟糕。
What happened? We used to be pals.
A nice little word for friends.
以前我們相處不錯的,像朋友似的。此處指Lester和女兒的親子關係日漸惡化
Lester meets Angela, and soon he finds himself obsessed by her.
Wait till you see the native stone fireplace!
“Wait till you see…” is a way of saying “I think you’ll be excited by…”
Carolyn 仲介賣房子。指其壁爐之價值。
A simple cream could lighten things up.
“To lighten up” a house is to make it brighter and friendlier
(In this case, cream is the color of a paint that Carolyn suggests).
指用”奶油白色”的漆可以使房子亮了起來,看起來舒服的多
Skylight.
A glass window in a ceiling to allow light in.
指天井之窗。使光線由天花板透進
Just filled with positive energy, huh?
People (and places) can have either positive energy (which is good and makes people happy) or negative energy (which is bad and makes people angry or upset).
指人或建築物充滿好的”氣”
The ad said that this pool was lagoon-like.
A “lagoon” is a small lake, usually separated from the ocean by sand,
and often found on tropical pacific islands. If the pool is “lagoon-like,”
it looks like a lagoon.
lagoon原指沙堆積而形成之瀉湖,常在熱帶太平洋島上可見。但此處指Carolyn房屋不實廣告中誇大的說法,指游泳池像瀉湖般美麗
I think ‘lagoon,’ I think waterfall, tropical. This is a cement hole.
“Tropical” refers to those places on earth that are hot and muggy,
such as islands in the Caribbean sea. “Cement” is the hard rock material that pools and sidewalks are made of.
其實只是水泥築成的一般游泳池罷了
They’re trying to take an active interest in me.
To “take an active interest” in a person is to become
very concerned by how they are doing in life.
指很留意注意某人的生活及工作；此處Jane表示不喜歡其父母開始多關心起他。
Gross! I hate it when my mom does that.
A popular slang word for disgusting, repulsive, or very unpleasant.
指”噁心,討厭”,此處影片中Angela也提及不喜歡父母親多關心多干涉她的事情。
They’re such assholes.
A very crude but common insult, similar to jerk, creep or shithead.
罵人的粗話,其他字如jerk, creep, shithead也是差不多意思
I’m missing the James Bond marathon on TNT.
A “marathon” is the showing of many movies or TV shows on the same day that feature the same person (In this case, the character James Bond). TNT is a cable television channel.
指電視台一天內一再播放同一男主角的戲,如”馬拉松”一般疲勞轟炸
She’s just willful. :: She hates you, too.
An interesting but rarely used word meaning determined or stubborn.
不太常用的字,指某人”心意堅定”或”固執”
Rockwell High’s Dancing Spartenettes.
Note that high school’s are often called just by their name and the word ‘high.’ This is a reference to the school’s cheerleaders, who are the students who cheer on athletes at various school games.
指高中之啦啦隊為運動選手比賽加油, spartenettes 指那些啦啦隊成員訓練有術,如斯巴達式的英勇矯捷。
You were also very good tonight. Very precise.
A good word for accurate, exact or correct.
Lester 誇講Angela啦啦隊舞跳的很好。
You didn’t screw up once.
“To screw up” something is to do it very badly. Very common.
指把事情搞砸了
Do you need a ride?
The noun you need for the act of being transported by car.
搭個便車,送某人一程
Could he be any more ….pathetic?
An excellent word meaning completely hopeless or ridiculously bad.
指某人可憐到極點或可惡至極,影片中Jane指自己的父親很糟糕
It’s the weirdest thing….I feel like I’ve been in a coma for about 20 years.
A “coma” is the state of being unconscious for a long period of
time, usually caused by disease or a sharp blow to the head.
Lester看見Angela之後渾然忘我之感覺。
I’m used to guys drooling over me.
“To drool” is to let saliva run slowly from your mouth (like a baby),
so if one person “drools over” another, the one who is drooling is perhaps sexually attracted to the other.
若對女人直流口水,指很受對方吸引。Angela指已習慣男人看了他口水直流
I knew what they were thinking…just like I knew guys
at school thought about me when they jerked off.
“To jerk off” is to masturbate.
指學校男同學將Angela當作性幻想對象而自慰
Vomit. :: No, I like it.
This is literally food or other matter that has been thrown up, but as here, it’s also a slangy way of simply expressing disgust or revulsion.
指噁心,嘔吐,其實是指”討厭”的意思
If people I don’t even know look at me and want to fuck
me, it means I really have a shot at being a model.
“To have a shot” at doing something is to
have a real chance or possibility of doing it.
Angela認為只要有機會當上模特兒(如果那麼地吸引男士的話)
There is nothing worse in life than being ordinary.
In this case, another way of saying average or not easily noticed.
這個平凡無奇的生活是最無趣,最糟糕的事了。此處也是Angela 自信滿滿覺得自己十分美麗特別。
Somebody hung up, and I star-69ed, and I called you back.
“Star-69” (*69) is a feature in some phone systems that lets you know
who just called you without picking up the phone.
指電話機來電號碼顯示裝置，便知道是從Jane家中撥出來的電話。
The Fitts family moves in next door, Angela dreams of being
a model, and Carolyn drags Lester to a party of her business colleagues.
Colonel Frank Fitts, U.S Marine Corps.
A “Colonel” is a high rank or level in the military. The “Marine Corps” are the military branch that are known for fighting on beaches.
Rick的父親向鄰居自我介紹；美國海軍上校
This is my partner. :: Jim Berkeley, but people call me J.B.
Note that the use of “partner” to refer to a gay lover,
a person who is also often called a significant other.
影片中特指男同性戀伴侶,也常被稱之為”重要的另一半”
Let’s cut to the chase. :: What are you guys selling?
“To cut to the chase” is a slangy way of saying to
quickly get to the point, or say what needs to be said.
此俚語指”有話快說”,”講重點”
He’s a tax attorney. :: And he’s an anesthesiologist.
An “attorney” is a lawyer, and an “anesthesiologist” is a person
who gives anesthesia and other pain killers to people having surgery.
前者指律師,後者為麻醉師
How come these faggots have to always rub it in your face?
“Faggot” is a very negative slur (insult word) for a gay man.
If a person “rubs it in your face,” they are making obvious
what you would rather not see.
很負面的一種稱呼男同性戀者。而”rub it in your face”特指某人再你面前做一些不雅的動作,做一些你不想看到的事情
How can they be so shameless?
An excellent word to describe a person who is without shame,
or whose behavior suggests they have no morals or dignity.
不知羞恥
Don’t placate me like I’m your mother, boy.
“To placate” a person is to try and stop them from feeling angry, often by agreeing with them, or doing something they want you to do.
順從或安撫某人使其平靜,不生氣
Forgive me for speaking so bluntly, but those fags
make me want to puke my fucking guts out.
To speak “bluntly” is to speak honestly, or frankly. “Fag” is also a slur for a gay man. “To puke” is a slang word meaning to vomit or throw up, and “guts” are stomach intestines.
老實說,那些同性戀的人令我噁心。guts原指”膽量”,此處指腸胃,膽汁都要吐出來了
He just pulled down his pants and yanked it out.
“To yank” something is to pull it out suddenly or forcefully.
此處指很突然地,很快地秀出性器官
So did you do it with him?
In the right context, to “do it” with a person is to have sex with them.
就是指發生性關係
He’s a well-known photographer. He shoots for Elle, on like, a regular basis.
Elle is a well-known women’s fashion magazine. To do something “on a regular basis” is to do it regularly, or consistently. Note the use of “like,” which is an extremely common filler word (with no meaning) among many teenagers and others. Be aware of it, but avoid it!
女性時裝雜誌名稱。
定期/固定幫此雜誌拍攝照片。青少年說話太常用”like”這字穿插其中。其實我們知道就好，不要氾濫用這個字。
It would have been so majorly stupid of me to turn him down.
In this case, “majorly” is a slangy adverb that means completely.
Here, “to turn down” a person is to refuse to have sex with them.
指拒絕與某人上床實在是太笨了。可能是指對方互相利用、有利可圖。
You’re this pampered little suburban chick.
If a person is “pampered,” they are spoiled and always get what they want from others. “Suburban” refers to the suburbs or residential neighborhoods outside cities, and “chick” is a slang word for a female.
指被寵壞的女孩要什麼得一定得到不可。而”suburban”郊外的住宅區。
Stop acting like your god damn Christi Turlington.
“God damn” as a filler adjective is a crude way to express emotion such as anger of frustration. Turlington is a well-known model.
God-dam粗魯或舉喪的口氣；而此處是指責Angela別再裝模作樣像Christi Turlington名模一般。
Cunt!
This is considered by many to be the most vulgar word in English!
A crude way to refer to female sex organs, and an insult word that is even stronger than bitch.
這個字是非常粗俗的用字，指女性之性器官。
I’m so sick of people taking their insecurities out on me.
If a person is “insecure,” they have no confidence in themselves.
If you “take your insecurities out on” another person, you are blaming them for your lack of confidence.
指自己本身缺乏自信，而又將此不安全感遷怒別人，責備別人、發洩在別人身上。
That’s the pervert who filmed me last night.
A “pervert” is a strange person who is often
thought to have strange or bizarre sexual desires.
是行為怪異或性變態的人。此處指Ricky晚上偷拍Jane的事情。
No way, he’s a total lunatic.
“No way” is a common way of saying absolutely not.
A “lunatic” is a crazy or insane person.
常用”lunatic”指瘋子、不正常的人。
He would always serve the most random, weird things.
If something is “random,” it is made or done without fitting
any pattern or plan. “Weird” means strange or bizarre.
His parents had to put him in a mental institution.
A hospital run by the state for crazy or mentally disturbed people.
精神病院或療養院。
You total slut! You got a crush on him!
A “slut” is a woman who has sex with lots of men. A silly word, in part because there is no such word for a man! “To have a crush on” a person is to like them in a romantic way, even though you don’t really know them very well. A dated but fun expression.
罵指與眾多男士上床之女性。而對某人偷偷愛慕則是have a crush on someone是個滿好玩的說法。
I remember this creepy incident when you were filming last night.
If something is “creepy,” it is scary or disturbing.
An “incident” is a small event or occurrence.
指偷拍這件令人害怕討厭之事。
I really don’t need to have some psycho obsessing about
me right now. :: I’m not obsessing, I’m just curious.
“Psycho” is a funny slang word for a crazy or insane person. “To obsess” about someone is to constantly be thinking about them.
此處psycho指精神異常的人。
指Ricky變態，為Jane著魔而偷拍。
What a freak! And why does he dress like a bible salesman?
A “freak” is a person who looks very strange, or behaves in very strange or bizarre ways. A powerful and common slang word.
怪胎、神經病。口氣很強但很常用。
Everyone here is with their spouse or significant other.
A “spouse” is a husband or wife. “Significant other” is a popular expression for a boyfriend, girlfriend, spouse, lover, or gay partner.
前者指配偶。後者廣義指另一半，也包括男女朋友或同性戀伴侶、同志等等。
這裡是Carolyn 要Lester陪同出席參加一些聚會
How would it look if I showed up with no one?
A widely used way of saying to arrive.
出席、出現某場合。
This is an important business function. My business is
selling an image, and part of that job is to live that image.
A “business function” is a dinner or social event such as a party in which making business connections is considered as important as having a good time. “To live an image” is Carolyn’s way of saying to appear to be living in a certain way, so that others will see her as being successful in both a personal and business sense.
此處Carolyn指”推銷業務”已成為他生活的一部分，而維持這專業形象亦成為他生活的一部分。
Say whatever you want to say and spare me the propaganda.
“Spare me” the details is a way of telling a person you are not interested in hearing about them. “Propaganda” is ideas and publicity
that are spread around by governments, in order to manipulate people, or to convince them to think in a certain or acceptable way.
此處是指少推銷、少做宣傳，直接了當說。
Do you party? Do you get high?
“To party” is a relatively new and slangy verb which means to do the things one does at a party---drink, take drugs, dance, etc… “To get high” is to feel the various effects of an illegal drug like marijuana.
此處指一些party聚會中，磕藥、吸毒、喝酒等興奮之行為。Rick和Lester相談甚歡，並提起吸毒一事。
I wouldn’t tell you this if I weren’t a little
tipsy….but, I’m in complete awe of you.
If a person is “tipsy,” they are slightly drunk, dizzy and likely to fall or stumble. To be “in awe of” a person is to have extreme respect for them, possibly combined with fear of their great authority.
些許醉意。指敬畏崇拜某人，通常是對權貴地位很高的人。
Your firm is hands-down the Rolls Royce of local real estate firms.
“Hands-down” is a grammatically curious expression which means absolutely, or without competition. A “Rolls Royce” is one of the most expensive cars in the world.
Carolyn很崇拜的對Buddy表示他是房屋仲介業之龍頭老大
Your personal sales record…is very intimidating.
If something is “intimidating,” it is threatening and scary.
銷售業績很高、很嚇人。
I’d love to sit down with you and pick your brain.
“To pick a person’s brain” is to talk with them for a while in order
to find out what they think or know about a particular subject.
指從言語中吸取對方對某些主題的看法或精華。
Technically, I’m the competition, but I don’t flatter myself that I’m even in the same league with you.
In this type of context, “technically” essentially means “One could say that…” This usage is very common. “To flatter” a person is to speak highly or positively about them. A “league” is a division in sports that divides players by how good they are (Pro League, AAA League, etc).
Carolyn 說明自己並非自誇，聲稱自己和銷售大王Buddy是同一陣線或同一等級。
Lester meets Ricky, remembers how happy he had been as a
teenager, and realizes how dead his life and marriage have become.
Did you see that movie where the body is carrying its
own head, where the head goes down on that babe?!
In this context, to “go down” on a person is to give them oral
sex. “Babe” is a very slangy word for a good-looking woman.
暗指進行口交。此處 Lester和Ricky聊到年輕時看的一部電影，快活的時光與現在無趣的婚姻生活無法相比。
I just do these gigs as a cover; I have other sources of income.
A “gig” is a slang term for a job, or more often, a concert for a musician. To do something “as a cover” is to do it just to fool
other people (In this case to fool Ricky’s dad).
Ricky表明自己當服務生這項工作只是一個掩護；真正其他收入卻來自販毒
My dad interferes less in my life when I pretend to be
an upstanding young citizen with a respectable job.
An “upstanding citizen” is a person who obeys the law, doesn’t cause problems and is well respected. A loved expression for politicians.
指守法不惹麻煩又受人尊敬的好公民。政客們很喜愛用此說法。
I should say hi to your dad. I don’t want to be rude.
A good alternative to impolite, obnoxious or badly mannered.
粗魯沒教養。
Last time I saw you, you looked kind of wound up.
If a person is “wound up,” they are very tense or perhaps upset.
緊張或心情不好難過之表情
Rootbeer.
A popular soft drink that many Europeans say tastes like cough syrup.
很多歐洲人說這種飲料味道像咳嗽糖漿。
She’s going to spend the night.
Note the verb: “To spend” time at a place is to pass time there.
此處指在某處過夜。
To you, he’s just another guy who wants to jump your bones.
“To jump a person’s bones” is a fun but
silly way of saying to have sex with them.
此說法有一些好笑，但傻裡傻氣的口氣，指想與某人上床。
Your mom is the one who is embarrassing. What a phony!
A person who is a “phony” often says things they don’t
really believe, or acts in ways that are false or hypocritical.
指某人說話言不由衷、虛偽、偽君子。
If he just worked out a little, he’d be hot.
“To work out” is a common way of saying to exercise. In this
context, if a person is “hot,” they are very sexy or attractive.
健身運動。“Hot”常指某人很性感、很吸引人。
You never sneaked a peak at him in his underwear? I bet he’s got a big dick.
“To sneak a peak” at a person is to very quickly look at them, without them noticing (perhaps when they are naked and unaware). “Dick” is
one of the most common slang terms for a penis (along with “cock”).
指很快偷瞄一下。而Dick、cock都是很常用的俚語，指男性陰莖。
You’re so grossing me out right now.
A classic line of teenage English! “To gross out” a person is to disgust them, or even make them sick. Note both the use of “so,” and putting the verb in the progressive tense, adds to its colloquial teen charm.
真令我噁心到家。青少年常用語。注意此處”so”的用法，特別有青少年口語玩味的可愛之處。
If he built up his chest and arms, I’d totally fuck him.
“To build up” your arms or chest is to increase their muscle size by
lifting weights or other exercise. Note that “totally” is a much loved adverb that is over-used by many teenagers.
指勤練胸肌和臂肌。而”totally”則是青少年愛用(濫用)的說辭，指一定。
It’s the psycho next door! What if he worships you?!
“To worship” a person is to greatly admire
and respect them, as if they were a God.
指崇拜或愛慕某人之意。
What if he’s got a shrine with pictures of you
surrounded by dead people’s heads and stuff?
A “shrine” is a place of worship or prayer
in honor of a God or religious figure.
指擺滿顝顱頭等類似可以作法或祈禱拜拜的神壇。此處指Jane害怕被偷拍照片被擺在神壇前做法。
come to America’s weirdest home videos.
“Home videos” are private movies made by people with their own video cameras (“America’s Funniest Home Videos” is a TV show).
美國有名很受歡迎的電視節目，主要播放民眾自拍的各式好玩怪異的錄影帶。
So what’s up?
A very common way of asking what’s new, how’s life, etc….
I need a urine sample. :: Wow, it’s been six months!
“A urine sample” is a small glass of urine (piss) that is often used to
see if a person has been using drugs. “Wow” is a very common way
of expressing great excitement, surprise or other emotion.
尿液採樣，測試看是否有嗑藥等。Ricky的父親仍突襲檢查其是否喀藥
Can I give it to you in the morning? I just took a whiz.
“To take a whiz” is to urinate. “To take a leak” is much more common.
指剛剛才去上過小號。也常用to take a leak。
You’ve been working out, haven’t you? I can tell.
Note the verb “to tell” often means to see or realize.
“看得出來”某人一直有在健身。Angela 說此話故意挑逗 Jane的父親。
You were masturbating! :: Oh, all right, so shoot me! I was whacking off.
“So shoot me” is a funny way to reply to a person who has accused you of doing something wrong. A way of saying “I don’t care that you’re upset.” “To whack off” is another slang term meaning to masturbate.
難不成要殺了我！才不在乎對方生氣呢！此處是 Lester在自慰時被妻子看到之後所說的話。
That’s right. I was choking the bishop, chafing the
carrot, saying hi to my monster. :: That’s disgusting.
Three ridiculous ways of saying to masturbate, none of which are really used (A “bishop” is a figure in a church and a piece in the game of chess, and to “chafe” is to become sore after being rubbed too much).
以上說法都極為荒謬,是Lester在劇中說自己自慰一事。分別是勒主教的脖子,搓紅羅蔔及和我的怪獸打招呼
Well, excuse me, but some of us still have blood pumping through our veins.
“Some of us” is a colloquial way of actually referring to yourself when you want to make a point. If liquid is “pumping through” a vein, it is moving quickly through it. “Veins” are the small tubes that carry blood
in the body. This is Lester’s way of saying he is still interested in sex.
這裡也是Lester反諷其老婆之說法。意指”人家”也是有血有肉的,也還是需要性生活。字面意思為血管內血液澎湃地流著
I’ve changed. And the new me whacks off when he feels horny,
cause you’re obviously not going to help me out in that department.
This is Lester’s colorful way of saying he knows that
Carolyn is no longer interested in having sex with him.
指Lester早就知道自己的太太早已對他”性趣”缺缺
Don’t you mess with me, Mister! I will divorce you so fast,
it will make your head spin. :: On what grounds?!
“Don’t mess with me” is a way of telling a person to stop provoking or upsetting them (Note the use of ‘you” for added emphasis). “It will make you head spin” is a way of saying it will greatly surprise you.
“On what grounds” is a way of asking the legal reason for an action.
Carolyn指Lester別把他惹火了,別把他逼瘋了,否則火速離婚讓他連吃驚一下都來不及。
憑什麼可以離婚?
I don’t even try to touch you, since you made it so
abundantly clear how unnecessary you consider me to be.
In this case, “abundantly” means completely or totally.
完全地,徹頭徹尾地
I did support you when you got your license, and some
people might think that entitles me to half of what’s yours.
The “license” Lester is referring to is one to sell real estate. If a person
is “entitled” to something, they have a legal right to it. This is Lester’s way of saying that after a divorce, he’d get half of Carolyn’s money.
這裡指的是房地產仲介之執照。此處Lester威脅太太,若離婚後仍可得到太太所得的一半
I figured you guys might be able to give
me some pointers; I need to shape up fast.
“To figure” is to think or believe. A “pointer” is a helpful suggestion, and to “shape up” is to get in good physical shape, often by exercising.
“pointer”意指”好點子”或一些好的指示,以便可以在短時間內鍛鍊出好身材
Do you want increased strength and
flexibility as well? :: I want to look good naked.
In this case, “flexibility” is the ability to move and
stretch your arms, legs and body muscles without pain.
指靈活度,健身之後使四肢靈活,也不會疼痛
What is this? Fucking gay pride parade?
Note that many ethnic and other social groups have annual parades
to celebrate their identities (Pride is a sense of self-respect, and thus a Gay Pride parade celebrates gay culture). Also note the use of “fucking” as an adjective, which is crude but common.
常有不同族群或社會團體舉辦遊行,而同性戀為自我認同,也常慶祝或街上遊行
My entire life is passing before my eyes,
and those two have barely broken a sweat.
“Barely” means only just, or hardly. “To break a sweat” is to
begin to sweat or perspire, usually because of having exercised.
指那些幾乎都不運動,不流一滴汗的人。注意”barely”的意思就是”hardly”
I have to take a drug test every six months just to make sure I’m clean.
“I’m clean” is Ricky’s way of saying that he’s not using illegal drugs.
指沒有用要吸毒之情況,用”clean”來指明
Are you kidding? You just smoked last night.
“To kid” is to joke around or not speak seriously (But note
that this is almost always used in the progressive tense).
你在開玩笑嗎?
注意一下都是用”現在進行式” 來表達
One of my clients is a nurse in a pediatrician’s office.
A “pediatrician” is a children’s doctor.
指小兒科
I cut her a deal, and she keeps me in clean piss.
This is Ricky’s way of saying that he agreed to sell his friend marijuana
for a very cheap price, and in exchange, the friend gives Ricky urine (piss) from the doctor’s office that will not have any drugs in it.
指Ricky是如何通過尿液偵測反應,其實Ricky用低價賣大麻給他的朋友,然後交換到”clean”沒藥物反應的尿液來避開檢查自己的尿液這一關
Pink Floyd.
A very popular rock group in the 1970s.
70年代很有名的搖滾樂團,有”牆”等專輯
How much is an ounce?
An “ounce” is 1/16th of a pound, and the unit of measurement
for many illegal drugs like cocaine or marijuana.
特別在計量藥物的單位,1”ounce”為16分之一”pound”
This shit is top of the line. It’s called G-B, and it’s
genetically engineered by the US government.
If something is “top of the line,” it is considered the very best quality.
If a drug is “genetically engineered,” it is made by changing around the basic biological structures (genes, or DNA) of a plant or animal.
最佳品質,最高檔的東西。指是美國政府從植物或動物基因改進而研發出來的產品
It’s extremely potent, but a completely mellow high. No paranoia.
If something is “potent,” it is strong or powerful. “Mellow” is a popular slang word form the 1970s which means gentle, soft or pleasant, and in this case a “high” is the pleasant feeling one gets from an illegal drug like marijuana. “Paranoia” is a feeling of great fear or anxiety.
藥性很強,但又會讓你覺得很舒服,很high。服用完不會有恐懼或焦慮的感覺
How much? :: Two grand.
A “grand” is a slang term for 1,000 dollars.
俗語:指一千美元
Jesus! Things have changed since 1973.
A common way of expressing emotion such as surprise or frustration.
You don’t have to pay now. I know you’re good for it.
If a person is “good for” their debts, they are responsible and will pay it.
此處指某人信用很好,不會呆帳
There’s a card in there with my beeper number. Beep me anytime.
A “beeper” is a small pocket device which tells a person when they have received a phone call. Note that there’s both a noun and a verb.
指B.B. call 隨身電子呼叫器。而現在一般人則使用手機
When I was your age, I flipped burgers all summer
just to be able to buy an 8-track. :: That sucks.
“To flip” burgers is to turn them over by throwing them gently in the air. An “8-track” is a type of music tape that died out after the 1970s.
If something “sucks,” it is considered very bad. Crude but common.
指速食店的打工時翻動漢堡之動作
“8-track”指的是70年代以前很流行的音樂帶子。That “sucks”指某人很令人討厭
All I did was party and get laid.
“To get laid” is a crude but widely used way of saying to have sex.
比較粗俗的講法,套句現在年輕人的用語就是 “炒飯”或”劈腿”
My dad thinks I pay for all of this with catering jobs.
“Catering jobs” are those jobs in which people serve
food and drinks at parties and other social meetings.
在派對或外燴替人準備餐點之工作
Never underestimate the power of denial.
“To underestimate” something is to not take it as seriously, or value it as highly, as one should. “Denial” is the act of denying or refusing to admit something.
The Burnhams fall apart as Les quits his job in order to
become a teenager, Carolyn decides to sleep with the
enemy, and Jane and Ricky become very close friends.
What the hell do you think you’re doing?
Note that “the hell” is often added to Wh questions
to express emotion such as frustration or anger.
表示氣憤或沮喪時常在Wh為首之問句中加入此用語
Bench presses. I’m going to whale on
my pecks and then I’m going to do my back.
“Bench presses” is a way of lifting weights. “Pecks” are a slang term for chest muscles, but the expression above is rarely if ever used. This is Lester’s way of saying he’s going to increase his chest and back muscles.
在劇中Lester用語,指要加強鍛鍊自己的胸肌或背部。”Bench presses”式一種舉重的招式
I see you’ve been smoking pot now.
“Pot” is the most common way of referring to marijuana.
指大麻
I think using illegal psychotropic substances….
is a very positive example to set for our daughter.
“Psychotropic substances” is a medical way of referring to drugs like marijuana that cause people to have strange psychological effects.
If you “set a positive example” for a person, you act in such a way that
they can look up to you as an example for how they should act.
通常大麻等藥物要有心理的療效。而此處反諷指吸毒為女兒建立了好榜樣
You’re one to talk, you bloodless money-grubbing freak.
A classic line. “You’re one to talk” is a way of telling a person that they are being hypocritical, or saying one thing but behaving differently.
“Bloodless” means cowardly or fearful, but this is rarely used. If a person is “money-grubbing,” they’re always looking for ways to make money in any possible way, and a “freak” is a strange or bizarre person.
指某人指示說一套做一套,偽善。而後者指無所不做,到處收刮錢的怪人
You have such hostility in you.
“Hostility” is anger toward another person.
指敵意
You will not get away with this.
“To get away with” something is to be able to do it without
being caught or punished, even if it is a bad or illegal action.
特別做壞事而又可以脫身而出,不受處罰。
“My job basically consists of masking my contempt for the assholes in
charge, and at least once a day retiring to the men’s room so I can jerk off…..
“To consist of” means to be made of. “To mask” something is to hide it, and “contempt” is a powerful noun meaning complete lack of respect, or disdain. “The men’s room” is the men’s bathroom.
Lester對工作及上司充滿不滿與歧視，但還是得掩藏起來
…..while I fantasize a life that doesn’t so closely resemble hell.”
“To fantasize” about something is to dream about
it, and “to resemble” something is to look like it.
幻想生活不是像地獄一樣地苦。意味著平時的生活有如地獄般苦悶
For 14 years, I’ve been a whore for the advertising industry.
A widely used word for a prostitute.
妓女
What sort of severance package is management prepared to offer me?….
A “severance package” is the money and other items that a
company offers an employee after they are fired or let go.
Severance原指”切斷”,”分離” 。此處為退職津貼。指員工被資遣或炒魷魚時,公司會給的一些錢或其他等,整個配套政策為一個package
…considering the information I have about our
editorial director buying pussy with company money?
An “editorial director” is the person responsible for the contents of
a magazine or newspaper. “Pussy” is a crude term for female sex organs, or in this case, for sex in general.
指編輯部主任用公司的錢召妓。”Pussy”是一種很粗魯的用語
I think it would interest the IRS, since it technically constitutes fraud.
The IRS is the Internal Revenue Service, which is the federal government agency that collects all taxes. “To constitute” means to be made of, or be equal to. “Fraud” is a legal term that refers to the illegal act of lying to or deceiving others in order to gain personally.
IRS是國稅局的簡稱。fraud是詐欺行為
I’m sure some of our advertisers and rival publications might
like to know about it as well, not to mention….Craig’s wife.
A “rival” is a major competitor, and a publication
is usually either a book, magazine or newspaper.
rival原指競爭對手。此處指同業或具與自己之出版品競爭能力之出版品
One year’s salary with benefits.
In this context, “benefits” include the various things that employers give employees besides money, including health insurance, retirement pay and paid vacations.
薪水之外還有之福利,如健康醫療保險,退休金或有給休假
What do you say if I throw in a little sexual harassment charge, to boot?
A “sexual harassment” charge is an official accusation that one person has tried to intimidate or scare the other into offering sexual favors while on the job. “To boot” is a colloquial way of saying “in addition.”
“to boot”:十分口語的說法,和”in addition”意思相同,此處指上司對員工性騷擾的指控
Can you prove that you didn’t offer to save my job if I let you blow me?
In this case, to “blow” a person is to give them oral sex (A “blow job”
is the most common way of referring to oral sex on a man).
(指對男性進行口交)
Man, you are one twisted fuck.
If a person is “twisted,” they are immoral or psychologically disturbed. Note the use of “fuck” as an insult noun, which is interesting but rare.
“twisted”原指扭曲。此處就是指不道德或不正常的人
Let’s just say that things were a little hectic around the house.
If things are “hectic,” they are filled
with hurried movements and excitement.
指家裡有一些混亂急躁的感覺
Yes, we are splitting up.
“To split up” is an alternative way of saying to break up.
指夫起獲朋友吵架,分開
According to her, I’m too focused on my career…as if
being driven to succeed is some kind of character flaw.
If a person is “focused” on something, they concentrate and spend much time on it. A person who is “driven to succeed” is determined to do well or be successful. A “character flaw” is a personal trait or habit that is considered negative, such as willingness to lie.
指過去太專注於事業上,有如認真工作追求成功是人格上一大弱點。”flaw”指缺點或性格上之特質,通常是負面的
It is my philosophy that in order to be successful,
one must project an image of success at all times.
“To project” an image is to constantly act as if
that image or reputation is accurate and true.
投射出,表現出一種積極,正面的形象
I think maybe you forgot your medication today, mental boy.
“Medication” is a word for medicine, in this case for a mental disease. “Mental boy” is a silly insult for an emotionally disturbed person.
諷刺的說法。指某人情緒,精神異常卻又忘了服用藥物加以控制。”mental”原指心靈上的,精神狀態的
I don’t want to end up hacked to pieces in a dumpster somewhere.
“To end up” is to finish or complete. If a person is “hacked to pieces,” they have been cut into small pieces by an ax or knife. A “dumpster”
is a large trash container often used for big apartment buildings.
指不願到後來下場悲慘,有如被剁成好幾塊置之大垃圾筒裏
Jane, that’s like, almost a mile.
A unit of length that is equal to about 1,609 meters.
You like being nailed by the king?! :: Yeah, fuck me, your majesty.
In this case, to “nail” a person is to have sex with them. “Your
majesty” is the expression one uses to address a King or Queen.
“nail”原意是指甲。此處指”某人願意,喜歡和別人上床”而majesty則是對君主或女王之尊稱
I’d like to fill out an application. :: There’s
no job for manager, just for counter.
If you “fill out a job application,” you write in information about yourself on a standard question form to see if an employer is interested in you. The “counter” at a fast food place is the flat surface
where the money and food are exchanged.
填申請表找工作。
櫃台的工作。此處Lester離職後在速食店打工
I don’t think you’d fit in here.
If a person doesn’t “fit in” at a particular place, they would not be comfortable being there, perhaps because everyone else is so different.
指某人不適合此地的工作或環境
I’m sure there’s been amazing technological advances in the
industry, but surely you must have some sort of training program.
“Amazing” is a powerful adjective meaning incredible or fantastic.
“Technological advances” refer to things such as computers, cell phones, etc. A “training program” teaches people new skills.
很不得了之科技上的進步,但無可厚非也少不了訓練部門吧
That was exactly what I needed. “The royal treatment,” so to speak.
“Royal” is an adjective that refers to the king, queen or monarchy
(though the word is also widely used in advertising). “So to speak”
is an expression that is used to show that the words one just used can be interpreted or mean different things.
與前面之”your majesty”用法相呼應,指皇家貴族之禮遇
I was so stressed out.
A person who is “stressed out” is feeling very tense or nervous.
常用此片語指壓力很大,很累
I go to this firing range downtown, and I pop off a few rounds.
A “firing range” is a place where people practice shooting guns, and to “pop off a few rounds” is to shoot a few times, usually firing at a target.
射箭場練習個幾回。”range”原指範圍或牧場亦可以指射擊場地
People who used to live there fed the stray cats, so
they were always around, and it drove my mother nuts.
“Stray cats” are those cats in the neighborhood that don’t belong to anybody. If something “drives a person nuts,” it makes them crazy.
野貓。指野貓令人快瘋了,快受不了了
This is where my dad hangs out. :: I take it he has a thing for guns.
“To hang out” in a place is to pass a lot of time there.
If a person “has a thing” for guns, they like guns a lot.
某人經常出沒閒晃之地,而”has a thing”片語指對某種事物喜愛,有興趣
One of my clients is a locksmith.
A person who works with keys and locks.
鎖匠,類似的用法有blacksmith為鐵匠或鍛工
It’s like official state china of the 3rd Reich.
In this case, “china” refers to fine plates, cuts and silverware.
The “3rd Reich” was Germany’s nazi government under Hitler.
“china”此處指在希特勒統治底下享有之精緻的瓷器或餐具
There’s a whole subculture who collect this Nazi shit.
A “subculture” is a group of people within society that have a
specific interest or lifestyle that is different from the majority.
只有一群人特有之生活習慣或作風而獨樹一格,形成一種”次文化”,如收集一些納粹時期之瓷器碗盤等
This incredibly benevolent force wanted me to
know that there was no reason to be afraid, ever.
If a person is “benevolent,” they are nice or kind and have good intentions. In this case, a “force” is a general power, such as a God
or nature itself.
指”仁慈的力量”,如上帝或大自然的力量
Sometime there’s so much beauty in the world I feel
that I can’t take it, and my heart is just going to cave in.
If a person “can’t take it,” they don’t have the strength or energy to deal with it. If a building “caves in,” it collapses or falls down.
指快承受不住了,而整個心靈會崩潰
I quit my job and then I told my boss to go fuck himself,
and then I blackmailed him for almost $60,000.
Note that after you tell a person “fuck you,” you can then tell a 3rd person that you told them to “go fuck themselves.” Very crude, but useful. “To blackmail” a person is to threaten to reveal something they want kept secret, unless they agree to pay money.
很粗俗的說法,但也很常用。指對某人相當不滿也相當氣憤時說的話。
“to blackmail”指向某人恐嚇財
Your mother prefers I go through life like a fucking prisoner
while she keeps my dick in a mason jar under the sink.
“Dick” is a slang word for a penis, and a “mason jar” is a wide-mouthed jar that is commonly used for storing home made jam.
此處Lester諷刺其太太早就對他”性趣”缺缺而對待他向犯人般無法享用性生活。
“mason-jar”廣口瓶,通常存放自製果醬的那種瓶子口
How dare you speak to me like that in front of her!
“How dare you” is a very strong way of expressing disapproval.
I marvel that you can be so contemptuous of me on the day you lose your job.
“To marvel” at something is to be amazed by it. To be “contemptuous” of a person is to look down on them with disgust or anger.
“marvel”對某事感到極大訝異,Carolyn指丈夫居然在失業當天仍對他用語言相譏,輕視他。contempt為名詞
I want to thank you for putting me under the
added pressure of being the sole breadwinner now.
“Sole” is an interesting adjective which means only. The “breadwinner” of the house is the person who makes the money.
指Carolyn變成家中唯一之經濟來源。the sole就是the only…
Don’t give a second thought as to who is going to pay the mortgage.
The “mortgage” is the monthly payment that is made
to a bank after having borrowed money to buy a house.
特指房貸,注意mortgage字中”t”沒有發音
You don’t complain? :: Yeah, let’s bring in the
laugh meter and see how loud it gets on that one.
A machine that measures how loud the laughter is for an audience.
測量笑聲之機器
From now on were going to alternate our dinner music,
because frankly, I am really tired of this Lawrence Welk shit.
“To alternate” two things is to go back and forth between them.
“Frankly” is a common way of starting a sentence when you want to be totally honest. Lawrence Welk was a conductor who was very famous for very soft, bland and popular elevator music.
Lester明白表示要換掉那晚餐時間太太所喜愛播放之無聊音樂。
Lawrence Welk音樂以柔和抒情著稱而很多電梯內的音樂也是如此
I wish you hadn’t witnessed that awful scene tonight, but in a way, I’m glad.
“To witness” something is to see or observe it. In this case, a “scene” is
a dramatic, loud or emotional argument. If a person is “glad,” they’re satisfied or happy.
You cannot count on anyone except yourself.
The words that a person would say who has
been badly hurt by someone they had trusted.
Look, I really don’t feel like having a Kodak moment here, OK?
A famous expression from a Kodak film ad; An emotional or sweet
event or incident between two people that both will remember forever.
原是柯達相機底片的廣告台詞，指很甜蜜的時刻或很棒的感覺
You ungrateful little brat!
A person who is “ungrateful” does not appreciate what they have been given, and a “brat” is a badly-mannered person, who is usually a child.
Carolyn罵她那不知感謝的,被寵壞的女兒!
When I was your age, I lived in a duplex.
A building with two separate living units.
複式房屋,指家境不好,得與另一戶人家共住之情況
You little bastard! How did you get in there?
A crude and classic insult. A “bastard” is a mean or abusive man.
“bastard”罵人的話,指很卑鄙的男生
Fight back, you little pussy! :: No Sir, I won’t fight you.
In this case, a “pussy” is a coward, or a person who is too scared to act.
“pussy”此處又可指膽小的人。此處 Ricky的父親再度對他拳打腳踢
I picked the lock, Sir.
“To pick” a lock is to open it, usually by using a small tool.
指開鎖
What are you looking for, money? Are you on dope again?
“Dope” is a common colloquial word for illegal drugs like marijuana.
“on dope”很常用之口語,指吸毒
You need discipline. :: Don’t give up on me, Dad.
“Discipline” is either self-control or the threat of punishment, usually to get a child to behave correctly. “To give up on” a person is to decide that they will not ever succeed.
此處指Rick與其父親之間的關係及互動緊張的一面
I thought you’d be hopeless, but you’re a natural.
A person who is “a natural” at a particular job or skill is
very good at it, even if they have not done it in the past.
指某人簡直是天生就擅長某事或技能
Lester catches Carolyn with Buddy as Jane and Ricky
grow closer, but Ricky soon has big problems with his dad.
1970 Pontiac Firebird! I rule!
The Pontiac Firebird is a type of very sporty car. “I rule” is a teenager’s way of saying that they are great (or more colloquially, cool), for having done something cool (In this case, for having bought the Firebird).
一種青少年極喜愛的跑車。”I rule”用語與”cool”類似,指棒透了
Shouldn’t you have consulted me first?
“To consult” with a person is to talk with them in order
to get their opinion in a particular topic or issue.
先與某人商量。Lester任意買了一輛年輕人喜愛開的跑車而沒和妻子商量
When did you become so….joyless.
A rare but powerful word for unhappy.
不常用此說法,意指”unhappy”
Whatever happened to that girl who used to
fake seizures at frat parties when she got bored?
A “seizure” is a sudden medical condition in which people often begin to shake violently and lose control over their bodily functions. A “frat party” is a party at a college fraternity, which is usually a house where many male students live who love to drink beer.
“seizure”原指”捕獲”,此處指疾病之發作,身體不聽使喚之顫動起來
“frat party”指大學內男同學社團所舉行的派對。此處指女生在派對中無聊時會佯裝疾病發作而引人注意。
We used to run up to the roof…to flash the traffic helicopters.
If you “ flash” a person, you pull down your pants in order to very briefly show them your ass. It’s a bit hard to flash a helicopter!
指脫下褲子,很快地秀一下屁股給別人看
Lester, you’re going to spill beer on the couch.
“To spill” a liquid is to let it accidentally pour out of a container.
指倒翻了啤酒弄髒了沙發椅
This is a $4,000 couch, upholstered in Italian silk!
“Upholstery” is material that is used to cover furniture. “Silk”
is a very fine and expensive thread that is used to make cloth.
特指非常昂貴絲質之義大利製的沙發椅
It’s just stuff, and it’s become more important
to you than life. Honey, that’s just nuts.
Here, “stuff” is just another word for things, and if
something is “nuts,” then it is crazy or insane.
指Lester認為妻子太重視表面,太不正常了,簡直是瘋子
I got kicked out.
To be “kicked out” of a school is to be officially removed.
被學校退學
Dad and I had this huge fight, and the next day at school,
some kid made a crack about my haircut, and I just snapped.
In this context, “a crack” is a joke or perhaps disrespectful remark.
If a person “snaps,” they lose their temper and often act violently
(To snap is to literally break off, or to break into two or more pieces).
指同學針對她的頭髮開玩笑,後者為此大發脾氣
“snap”原意為破碎成碎片
He’s a total asshole. He’s got this crush
on my friend, Angela, and it’s disgusting.
A “total asshole” is a complete jerk, creep or bastard. “To have
a crush” on a person is to secretly like them in a romantic way.
total a asshole, jerk, creep bastard都是罵人的稱呼,笨蛋,怪胎等
指Lester暗戀自己女兒的同學Angela
I know you think my dad’s harmless, but you’re wrong.
If a person is “harmless,” they’re not dangerous or harmful to anybody.
無傷害的,不會做出傷人的事
He’s doing massive psychological damage to me.
A powerful adjective meaning extremely big, huge or enormous.
指在心理上造成”極大”的傷害或影響
I’ve got almost $3,000. Of course, I was saving it up for a boob job.
A silly expression for plastic surgery to make a woman’s breasts bigger
(Boobs are breasts, and is probably a safer colloquial word than tits).
指隆乳手術,如鼻子美容手術亦稱a nose job
口語中也用boobs或tits指女生的胸部
Today is the first day of the rest of your life.
A favorite cliché for people who want to start their lives over.
Dad, you stare at her all the time. :: Jane, you better watch yourself,
or you’re going to turn into a real bitch, just like your mother.
“To stare at” somebody is to look at them for an extended period of time, without turning away. A “bitch” is a mean, abusive or unpleasant female. Very crude, but widely used.
盯著Angela看個不停,而此處Lester反倒要她的女兒小心點別像他母親一樣
而bitch為對女性的蔑稱
I need a super smiley with cheese, A-S-A-P.
As soon as possible. A very useful abbreviation
(The super smiley is a cheeseburger).
常用這個縮寫指As soon as possible,如BTW指By the way
The super smiley一種漢堡
I think we deserve a little junk food after the workout we had this morning.
“Junk food” is unhealthy food like hamburgers and French fries. A “workout” usually refers to vigorous exercise, although here Carolyn is talking about sex.
泛指漢堡薯條等速食垃圾食物。此處的workout原指健身運動等,而Carolyn用此詞指做愛一事。Carolyn 和 Buddy幽會被 Lester撞見
We were just at a seminar. Buddy, this is my husband.
A “seminar” is a public lecture or presentation on a particular topic.
指公眾演講或討論會議之場合。此處 Carolyn趕緊圓謊
Whoa, you are so busted! :: This really doesn’t concern you.
“Whoa” is a common way of expressing emotion such as surprise.
If a person has been “busted,” they have probably been caught doing something that is illegal or embarrassing.
為了不合法的或難為情的事而被抓到時的縮寫。”busted”指…
Actually, Jamie is senior drive-through manager, so you are on her turf.
The “drive-through” part of a fast-food restaurant is where people in cars pick up their food. “Turf” is a interesting word for land or territory.
速食店都有車道取餐點服務,名稱極為drive-through。Turf指某一地區或領域。此種說法很有趣,指員工直屬於某領隊管理下做事。on the turf
I guess we could cool it for a while
In this context, to “cool it” is to stop it, at least until things calm down.
事情暫緩或冷靜一下
So, you and psycho boy are like fucking on a regular basis.
“Psycho boy” is a silly way of referring to a person who may be crazy. To do something “on a regular basis” is to do it regularly or consistently.
精神不正常的人,此處指Rick
Now that you have a boyfriend, you’re like above it?
In this context, to be “above it” is to be more concerned
with other things, or to think that it is not so important.
Put up a fight, dude. You are like, such a push-over.
“To put up a fight” is to try and fight back. “Dude” is a very popular word with which young males address each other. A “push-over” is a person who easily agrees to do anything.
反擊,在打回去呀.而dude是男性朋友互稱用語,”push-over”是指逆來順受什麼都答應做的人
You should learn to roll a joint.
“To roll a joint” is to make a marijuana cigarette,
by adding the drug to a piece of rolling paper.
指大麻煙捲
I should probably go see what Jane’s up to.
A slangy way of asking what a person is doing.
常用語,與What is Jane doing同意
I will not sit back and watch my only son become
a cocksucker. :: Jesus, what is it with you?!
A “cock” is a crude term for a penis, and thus a “cocksucker” is a crude term for a person who performs oral sex on men (especially other men). “What is it with you?” can be a way of expressing great anger.
很粗俗的詞語,特指男性對其他男性口交。Ricky的父親以為兒子是個同性戀怪物
You mean that? :: You’re damn straight I do.
A slangy and somewhat dated way of saying completely correct.
沒錯,我就是…
I’d rather you were dead than be a fucking faggot.
A very crude slur (insult word) for a gay man.
指男同性戀者(有汙辱之意)
You should see me fuck. I’m the best piece of ass in three states.
Another crude term for a person who is looked
on as nothing more than a sex object.
字面上指”屁股”,但意指某人一無是處,只是個性器物罷了,非常粗俗的用詞。此處Ricky在父親一陣毒打之後故意說重話、承認自己是個玻璃。
The constant cycle of victimhood.
In this case, the idea that a person who feels that they are a victim of society will always be so until they change their actions or attitudes.
除非改變作風或態度,否則惡性循環就一直會覺得自己是一位犧牲者
You’re way too uptight about sex. :: Just don’t fuck my dad!
If a person is “uptight” about something,
they are tense or nervous about it.
指Jane對性太緊張了,有點小題大作
You’re just a kid, and he’s like a mental case.
Another slangy way of referring to a crazy or disturbed person.
精神不正常的人
We can use my plastic surgery money.
Surgery that is designed to improve a person’s physical appearance.
美容手術
I know people in the city who can help us
get set up. :: What, other drug dealers?
In this case, “to get set up” is to find a new home and establish a new life. “Drug dealers” are people who sell illegal drugs on city streets.
指有些機構協助人們戒菸或戒毒,使之重生,建立新生活
You’d be out of your mind to go with him.
If a person is “out of their mind,” they’re crazy or emotionally unstable.
瘋狂不正常
Go fuck yourself! :: Hey, shut up, bitch.
An honorable if equally crude alternative to “fuck you!”
Jane和Angela 鬧翻了
You two deserve each other.
The expression you’d say to a couple
when you are equally upset at both partners.
對某兩人很生氣,亦指那兩人都一樣糟糕
Lester Burnham has the strangest day of his life….
Jesus, man, you’re soaked.
If a person is “soaked,” they are completely wet, usually from rain.
全身溼透了
Where’s your wife? :: Probably out fucking
that dorky prince of real estate asshole.
“Dork” is a slang word for a jerk or fool, though dorky is rarely used.
不常用此字形容某人呆頭,笨蛋
Our marriage is just for show; A commercial for
how normal we are, when we’re anything but.
If a marriage is “just for show,” it is kept up just so that people will think the partners are still doing well, but not for any other reason.
Here, “We’re anything but” implies that the next word is normal.
此處Lester自嘲他與Carolyn的婚姻只是表面作秀一般,一點也不是正常一般的家庭
Do you want a sip? :: Sure.
A “sip” is a the act of drinking just a small amount at a time.
指小酌一下
This is my first time. :: You’re kidding.
If a person is “kidding,” they are joking or not being serious.
Angela 表明自己其實沒有任何性經驗
I’m still a little weirded out, but I feel better. Thanks.
If a person is “weirded out,” they are felling a little strange, or perhaps scared or shaken. An interesting but very slangy phrasal verb.
Angela和Lester 最後其實兩人什麼也沒做，經歷一個最奇怪的感覺；還是有點覺得奇怪。
I’ve always heard that your entire life flashes
in front of you the second before you die.
In this case, “to flash” is to pass by extremely quickly.
指回憶從眼前快速閃過。Lester在死前的幻覺
That one second stretches on forever, like an ocean of time.
In this case, “to stretch on forever” is simply to go on forever
(“To stretch” is to grow longer, often by pulling two sides apart).
那一秒鐘卻一直持續
Yellow leaves from the maple trees that lined our street.
A “maple tree” contains maple, which is the delicious syrup
that Americans love to put on their breakfast pancakes.
一般早點煎餅上林上楓漿
I guess I could be pretty pissed off about what happened to me, but
it’s hard to stay mad when there’s so much beauty in the world.
If a person is “pissed off,” they are very angry or upset. Very common.
非常氣憤
My heart fills up like a balloon that’s about to burst.
If a balloon “bursts,” it explodes because it has too much air or water.
爆裂開
And then it flows through me like rain, and I can’t feel anything
but gratitude, for every single moment of my stupid little life.
If a liquid “flows through” a body, it travels smoothly through it, perhaps like a river. “Gratitude” is an important word meaning appreciation or gratefulness.
像雨般流串在我身體,我什麼也感覺不到,只有感激,感激。Lester死時對其微不足道之人生感嘆的一段話。
American Beauty
Possible Topics for ESL Class Discussion
1) Are the Burnhams really a typical American family, or are they in fact more dysfunctional (“screwed up”) than most? What about compared to
your family?
2) Why are Lester and Carolyn so unhappy? Should they be?
3) Which characters had public images that hid who they really
were, and which ones seemed to be completely honest?
4) Do you think most men over 40 dream of being 18 again?
5) What did you like and not like about this movie?
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
On VIDEO: JANE BURNHAM lays in bed, wearing a tank top. She's sixteen, with dark, intense
eyes.
JANE
I need a father who's a role model, not some horny geek-boy who's gonna spray his shorts whenever
I bring a girlfriend home from school.
(snorts)
What a lame-o. Somebody really should put him out of his misery.
Her mind wanders for a beat.
RICKY (O.C.)
Want me to kill him for you?
Jane looks at us and sits up.
JANE
(deadpan)
Yeah, would you?
FADE TO BLACK.
FADE IN:
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - EARLY MORNING
We're FLYING above suburban America, DESCENDING SLOWLY toward a tree-lined street.
lESTER (V.O.)
My name is Lester Burnham. This is my neighborhood. This is my street. This... is my life. I'm fortytwo
years old. In less than a year, I'll be dead.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
We're looking down at a king-sized BED from OVERHEAD:
LESTER BURNHAM lies sleeping amidst expensive bed linens, face down, wearing PAJAMAS.
An irritating ALARM CLOCK RINGS. Lester gropes blindly to shut it off.
LESTER (V.O.)
Of course, I don't know that yet. He rolls over, looks up at us and sighs. He doesn't seem too thrilled
at the prospect of a new day.
LESTER (V.O.) (cont'd)
And in a way, I'm dead already.
He sits up and puts on his slippers.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BATH - MOMENTS LATER
Lester thrusts his face directly into a steaming hot shower.
ANGLE from outside the shower: Lester's naked body is silhouetted through the fogged-up glass
door. It becomes apparent he is masturbating.
LESTER (V.O.)
(amused)
Look at me, jerking off in the shower.
(then)
This will be the high point of my day. It's all downhill from here.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MOMENTS LATER
CLOSE on a single, dewy AMERICAN BEAUTY ROSE. A gloved hand with CLIPPERS appears
and SNIPS the flower off.
CAROLYN BURNHAM tends her rose bushes in front of the Burnham house. A very well-put
together woman of forty, she wears color-coordinated gardening togs and has lots of useful and
expensive tools.
Lester watches her through a WINDOW on the first floor, peeping out through the drapes.
LESTER (V.O.)
That's my wife Carolyn. See the way the handle on those pruning shears matches her gardening
clogs? That's not an accident.
EXT. JIMS' HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
In the fenced front yard of the house next door, a dog BARKS repeatedly. A MAN in a conservative
suit (JIM #1) chastises the barking dog.
JIM #1
Hush, Bitsy. You hush. What is wrong?
LESTER (V.O.)
That's our next-door neighbor Jim.
A second MAN in a conservative suit (JIM #2) comes out of the house.
LESTER (V.O.) (cont'd)
And that's his lover, Jim.
JIM #2
(re: barking dog)
What in the world is wrong with her? She had a walk this morning.
JIM #1
And a jerky treat.
JIM #2
You spoil her.
(sternly)
Bitsy. No bark. Come inside. Now.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Lester watches all this from the window.
CAROLYN
Good morning, Jim!
Jim #1 walks toward the fence to greet Carolyn.
JIM #1
Morning, Carolyn.
CAROLYN
(overly friendly)
I just love your tie! That color!
JIM #1
I just love your roses. How do you get them to flourish like this?
CAROLYN
Well, I'll tell you. Egg shells and Miracle Grow.
Jim #1 and Carolyn continue to chat, unaware that Lester is watching them.
LESTER (V.O.)
Man. I get exhausted just watching her.
Lester's POV: We can't hear what Jim and Carolyn are saying, but she's overly animated, like a TV
talk show host.
LESTER (V.O.) (cont'd)
She wasn't always like this. She used to be happy. We used to be happy.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
JANE is seated at her desk, working at her computer.
LESTER (V.O.)
My daughter Jane. Only child.
CLOSE on the COMPUTER MONITOR: A PERSONAL BANKING SOFTWARE window
suddenly disappears to reveal another window: a PLASTIC SURGERY WEBSITE, featuring
clinical "before" and "after" photos of surgically augmented breasts.
LESTER (V.O.) (cont'd)
Janie's a pretty typical teenager. Angry, insecure, confused. I wish I could tell her that's all going to
pass...
Outside, a CAR HORN BLARES. Jane stuffs items into her BACKPACK.
LESTER (V.O.) (cont'd)
But I don't want to lie to her.
We HEAR the CAR HORN again from outside. Jane studies herself in a mirror, then shifts to get a
good profile of her breasts.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn stands next to a platinum-colored MERCEDES-BENZ ML320, reaching in through the
drivers' window to blow the HORN again.
Jane shuffles out of the house, her backpack slung over her shoulder.
CAROLYN
Jane. Honey. Are you trying to look unattractive?
JANE
Yes.
CAROLYN
Well, congratulations. You've succeeded admirably.
Jane gets in the car. Lester hurries out the front door, carrying a BRIEFCASE.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
Lester, could you make me a little later, please? Because I'm not quite late enough.
Lester's briefcase suddenly springs open and his papers spill all over the driveway. He drops to his
knees to gather everything.
JANE
Nice going, Dad.
Lester smiles sheepishly, trying to lighten the moment.
His POV: Carolyn looks down at us, contemptuous but also bored, as if she gave up expecting
anything more long ago.
LESTER (V.O.)
Both my wife and daughter think I'm this gigantic loser, and... they're right.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - A SHORT TIME LATER
Carolyn is driving; Jane stares out the window. Lester is asleep in the back seat.
LESTER (V.O.)
I have lost something. I'm not exactly sure what it is, but I know I didn't always feel this... sedated.
But you know what? It's never too late to get it back.
INT. OFFICE BUILDING - DAY
Lester sits at his workstation, a BEIGE CUBICLE surrounded by IDENTICAL BEIGE CUBICLES.
He's staring at a computer monitor and talking on a HEADSET PHONE. The beleaguered expression
on his face is at odds with the light, friendly tone of his voice.
LESTER
Hello, this is Lester Burnham from Media Monthly magazine, I'm calling for Mr. Tamblin, please?...
Well, we're all under a deadline here, uh, but you see, there is some basic information about the
product launch that isn't even covered in your press release and I... Yeah. Can I ask you a question?
Who is Tamblin? Does he exist? 'Cause he doesn't ever seem to come in... Yeah, okay, I'll leave my
number...
BRAD, a dapper man in his thirties, approaches and observes Lester, who is unaware of his
presence.
LESTER (cont'd)
It's 555 0199. Lester Burnham. Thank you!
Lester disconnects the call, obviously irritated.
BRAD
Hey Les. You got a minute?
Lester turns around, smiling perfunctorily
LESTER
For you, Brad? I've got five.
INT. BRAD'S OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER
Brad is seated behind his desk in his big corner office.
BRAD
I'm sure you can understand our need to cut corners around here.
Lester sits across from him, looking small and isolated.
LESTER
Oh, sure. Times are tight, and you gotta free up cash. Gotta spend money to make money. Right?
BRAD
Exactly. So...
Brad stands, ready to usher Lester out.
LESTER
(blurts)
Like the time when Mr. Flournoy used the company MasterCard to pay for that hooker, and then she
used the card numbers and stayed at the St. Regis for, what was it, like, three months?
BRAD
(startled)
That's unsubstantiated gossip.
LESTER
That's fifty thousand dollars. That's somebody's salary. That's somebody who's gonna get fired
because Craig has to pay women to fuck him!
BRAD
Jesus. Calm down. Nobody's getting fired yet. That's why we're having everyone write out a job
description, mapping out in detail how they contribute. That way, management can assess who's
valuable and--
LESTER
Who's expendable.
BRAD
It's just business.
LESTER
(angry)
I've been writing for this magazine for fourteen years, Brad. You've been here how long, a whole
month?
BRAD
(frank)
I'm one of the good guys, Les. I'm trying to level with you. This is your one chance to save your job.
Lester stares at him, powerless.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - LATE AFTERNOON
A MOVING VAN is parked in front of the COLONIAL HOUSE next door to the Burnhams'.
Movers carry furniture toward the house.
The Mercedes-Benz pulls into the Burnham driveway. Carolyn drives, Lester is in the passenger
seat.
CAROLYN
--there is no decision, you just write the damn thing!
LESTER
You don't think it's weird and kinda fascist?
CAROLYN
Possibly. But you don't want to be unemployed.
LESTER
Oh, well, let's just all sell our souls and work for Satan, because it's more convenient that way.
CAROLYN
Could you be just a little bit more dramatic, please, huh?
As they get out of the car, Carolyn scopes out the MOVERS next door.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
So we've finally got new neighbors. You know, if the Lomans had let me represent them, instead of--
(heavy disdain)
--"The Real Estate King," that house would never have sat on the market for six months.
She heads into the house, followed by Lester.
LESTER
Well, they were still mad at you for cutting down their sycamore.
CAROLYN
Their sycamore? C'mon! A substantial portion of the root structure was on our property. You know
that. How can you call it their sycamore? I wouldn't have the heart to just cut down something if it
wasn't partially mine, which of course it was.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - DINING ROOM - LATER THAT NIGHT
We HEAR EASY-LISTENING MUSIC.
Lester, Carolyn and Jane are eating dinner by CANDLELIGHT. RED ROSES are bunched in a vase
at the center of the table. Nobody makes eye contact, or even seems aware of anybody else's
presence, until...
JANE
Mom, do we always have to listen to this elevator music?
CAROLYN
(considers)
No. No, we don't. As soon as you've prepared a nutritious yet savory meal that I'm about to eat, you
can listen to whatever you like.
A long beat. Lester suddenly turns to Jane.
LESTER
So Janie, how was school?
JANE
(suspicious)
It was okay.
LESTER
Just okay?
JANE
No, Dad. It was spec-tac-ular.
A beat.
LESTER
Well, you want to know how things went at my job today?
Now she looks at him as if he's lost his mind.
LESTER (cont'd)
They've hired this efficiency expert, this really friendly guy named Brad, how perfect is that? And
he's basically there to make it seem like they're justified in firing somebody, because they couldn't
just come right out and say that, could they? No, no, that would be too... honest. And so they've
asked us--
(off her look)
--you couldn't possibly care any less, could you?
Carolyn is watching this closely.
JANE
(uncomfortable)
Well, what do you expect? You can't all of a sudden be my best friend, just because you had a bad
day.
She gets up and heads toward the kitchen.
JANE (cont'd)
I mean, hello. You've barely even spoken to me for months.
She's gone. Lester notices Carolyn looking at him critically.
LESTER
Oh, what, you're mother-of-the-year? You treat her like an employee.
CAROLYN
(taken aback)
What?!
Lester is quiet, staring at his plate.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
(more authority)
What?
Lester gets up and starts after Jane, taking his plate with him.
LESTER
I'm going to get some ice cream.
Carolyn watches him go, irritated.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Jane stands at the sink, rinsing off her plate. Lester enters.
LESTER
Honey, I'm sorry. I...
Jane turns and stares at him, waiting for him to finish.
LESTER (cont'd)
I'm sorry I haven't been more available, I just... I'm...
He's looking to her for a little help here, but she's too uncomfortable with this sudden intimacy to
give him any.
LESTER (cont'd)
(finally)
You know, you don't always have to wait for me to come to you...
JANE
Oh, great. So now it's my fault?
LESTER
I didn't say that. It's nobody's fault. Janie, what happened? You and I used to be pals.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
On VIDEO: We're looking through GREENHOUSE WINDOWS at Lester and Jane in the kitchen
We can't hear what they're saying, but it's obvious it's not going well.
Jane puts her plate in the dishwasher and leaves. We FOLLOW HER out the door, then the camera
JERKS back to Lester calling after her.
CLOSE on the face of RICKY FITTS, illuminated by the screen of his DIGICAM as he videotapes.
Ricky is eighteen, but his eyes are much older. Beneath his Zen-like tranquility lurks something
wounded... and dangerous.
His POV, on VIDEO: Through the kitchen window, we see Lester at the sink, rinsing off his plate,
muttering to himself. His head suddenly jerks up and he looks at us, as if he realizes he's being
watched.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
Lester's POV: We're looking out through the kitchen window at the point where Ricky was just
standing, but he's no longer there.
Lester turns off the faucet, dries his hands, then tosses the towel on the counter on his way out,
where it lands next to a framed PHOTOGRAPH of Lester, Carolyn, and a much-younger Jane, taken
several years earlier at an amusement park.
It's startling how happy they look.
EXT. SALE HOUSE - DAY
CLOSE on a wooden SIGN that reads:
OPEN HOUSE TODAY
BURNHAM & ASSOCIATES REALTY
555-0195 Carolyn Burnham
The sign is planted in front of a RUN-DOWN HOME in a run-down neighborhood. The Mercedes is
parked in front of the house. Carolyn, wearing a smart business suit, is unloading a box of cleaning
supplies and a BOOMBOX from the back of the Mercedes when something across the street catches
her eye.
Her POV: In front of a different house with much more curb appeal is another SIGN, featuring a
picture of a handsome silver-haired MAN. It reads:
Another One SOLD By Buddy Kane
The Real Estate King 555-0100
Carolyn frowns and slams the back of the Mercedes shut.
INT. SALE HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
The interior of this house is ugly, oppressive and tasteless. Carolyn opens the front door, breathes
deeply and solemnly announces:
CAROLYN
I will sell this house today.
She neatly arranges her sales materials on a desk, then strips down to her undergarments.
MONTAGE:
We see Carolyn, working with fierce concentration as she:
Cleans glass doors that overlook the patio and pool;
Doggedly scrubs countertops in the kitchen;
Perches on a stepladder to dust a cheap-looking ceiling fan in the master bedroom;
And vacuums a dirty carpet that will never be clean.
Throughout all this, she keeps repeating to herself:
CAROLYN
I will sell this house today. I will sell this house today. I will sell this house today.
INT. SALE HOUSE - BATHROOM - LATER
Carolyn stands in front of the mirror, wearing her suit once more, applying lipstick. She stares at her
reflection critically.
CAROLYN
I will sell this house today.
She says this as if it were a threat, then notices a smudge on the mirror and wipes it off.
EXT. SALE HOUSE - FRONT YARD - LATER
The front door opens to reveal Carolyn, greeting us with the smile she thinks could sell ice to an
Eskimo.
CAROLYN
Welcome. I'm Carolyn Burnham!
INT. SALE HOUSE - FOYER - CONTINUOUS
Smiling, Carolyn leads a man and woman into the living room. They're thirtyish, and they've seen a
lot of houses today.
CAROLYN
This living room is very dramatic. Wait 'til you see the native stone fireplace!
The man and woman glance around the dark room, unimpressed.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
A simple cream would really lighten things up. You could even put in a skylight.
The woman wrinkles her face, skeptical.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
Well, why don't we go into the kitchen?
INT. SALE HOUSE - KITCHEN - LATER
Carolyn enters, followed by a different couple in their fifties.
CAROLYN
It's a dream come true for any cook. Just filled with positive energy. Huh?
INT. SALE HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - LATER
Carolyn stands with a different couple: African American, late twenties. The woman is pregnant.
CAROLYN
...and you'll be surprised how much a ceiling fan can cut down on your energy costs.
EXT. SALE HOUSE - BACK YARD - LATER
Carolyn stands by the pool next to two fortyish WOMEN.
CAROLYN
You know, you could have some really fun backyard get-togethers out here.
WOMAN #1
The ad said this pool was "lagoon-like." There's nothing "lagoon-like" about it. Except for maybe the
bugs.
WOMAN #2
There's not even any plants out here.
CAROLYN
(re: shrub)
What do you call this? Is this not a plant? If you have a problem with the plants, I can always call my
landscape architect. Solved.
WOMAN #2
I mean, I think "lagoon," I think waterfall, I think tropical. This is a cement hole.
A beat.
CAROLYN
I have some tiki torches in the garage.
INT. SALE HOUSE - SUN ROOM - LATER
Carolyn enters, alone. She's furious. She locks the sliding glass door and starts to pull the vertical
blinds shut, then stops. Standing very still, with the blinds casting shadows across her face, she starts
to cry: brief, staccato SOBS that seemingly escape against her will. Suddenly she SLAPS herself,
hard.
CAROLYN
Shut up. Stop it. You... Weak!
But the tears continue. She SLAPS herself again.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
Weak. Baby. Shut up. Shut up! Shut up!
She SLAPS herself repeatedly until she stops crying. She stands there, taking deep breaths until she
has everything under control, then pulls the blinds shut, once again all business. She walks out
calmly, leaving us alone in the dark, empty room.
We HEAR CHEERING and APPLAUSE.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUM - NIGHT
We're at a high-school BASKETBALL GAME. Teenage boys play a fast and furious game. One
team wearing pale blue and white uniforms scores a basket. Perky cheerleaders jump up and down as
the CROWD goes wild.
Seated in the bleachers, next to the high school BAND, is a group of about twenty TEENAGE
GIRLS, dressed in pale blue and white uniforms. Among them, Jane sits next to ANGELA HAYES.
At sixteen, Angela is strikingly beautiful; with perfect even features, blonde hair and a nubile young
body, she's the archetypal American dream girl.
Jane stands and scans the bleachers.
ANGELA
Who are you looking for?
JANE
My parents are coming tonight. They're trying to, you know, take an active interest in me.
ANGELA
Gross. I hate it when my mom does that.
JANE
They're such assholes. Why can't they just have their own lives?
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn drives. Lester is slumped in the passenger seat.
LESTER
What makes you so sure she wants us to be there? Did she ask us to come?
CAROLYN
Of course not. She doesn't want us to know how important this is to her. But she's been practicing
her steps for weeks.
LESTER
Well, I bet money she's going to resent it. And I'm missing the James Bond marathon on TNT.
CAROLYN
Lester, this is important. I'm sensing a real distance growing between you and Jane.
LESTER
Growing? She hates me.
CAROLYN
She's just willful.
LESTER
She hates you too.
Carolyn stares at him, unsure of how to respond.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUM - LATER
The uniformed girls now stand in formation on the gym floor.
ANNOUNCER
(over P.A.)
And now, for your half-time entertainment, Rockwell High's award-winning Dancing Spartanettes!
In the crowded stands, Lester and Carolyn find seats.
LESTER
We can leave right after this, right?
The HIGH SCHOOL BAND plays "ON BROADWAY." On the gym floor, the girls perform.
They're well-rehearsed, but too young to carry off the ambitious Vegas routine they're attempting.
Lester, watching from the stands, picks out his daughter.
His POV: Jane performs well, concentrating. Dancing awkwardly next to her is Angela. Suddenly
Angela looks right at us and smiles... a lazy, insolent smile.
Lester leans forward in his seat.
His POV: We're focused on Angela now. Everything starts to SLOW DOWN... the MUSIC acquires
an eerie ECHO...
We ZOOM slowly toward Lester as he watches, transfixed.
His POV: Angela's awkwardness gives way to a fluid grace, and "ON BROADWAY" FADES into
dreamy, hypnotic MUSIC. The light on Angela grows stronger, and the other girls DISAPPEAR
entirely.
Lester is suddenly alone in the stands, spellbound.
His POV: Angela looks directly at us now, dancing only for Lester. Her movements take on a
blatantly erotic edge as she starts to unzip her uniform, teasing us with an expression that's both
innocent and knowing, then... she pulls her uniform OPEN and a profusion of RED ROSE PETALS
spill forth... and we SMASH CUT TO:
INT. HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUM - CONTINUOUS
Angela, fully clothed, is once again surrounded by the other girls. The HIGH SCHOOL BAND plays
its last note, the Dancing Spartanettes strike their final pose, and the audience APPLAUDS.
Carolyn claps along with the rest of the audience. Lester just sits there, unable to take his eyes off
Angela.
EXT. HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUM - LATER
The game is long over. Jane and Angela come out of the gym.
JANE
Oh shit, they're still here.
Her POV: Lester and Carolyn stand at the edge of the parking lot.
LESTER
Janie!
CAROLYN
Hi! I really enjoyed that!
She crosses reluctantly toward her parents, followed by Angela.
LESTER
Congratulations, honey, you were great.
JANE
I didn't win anything.
LESTER
(to Angela)
Hi, I'm Lester. Janie's dad.
ANGELA
Oh. Hi.
An awkward beat.
JANE
This is my friend, Angela Hayes.
LESTER
Okay, good to meet you. You were also good tonight. Very... precise.
ANGELA
(warming)
Thanks.
CAROLYN
(to Angela)
Nice to meet you, Angela.
(to Jane)
Honey, I'm so proud of you. I watched you very closely, and you didn't screw up once.
(then, to Lester)
Okay, we have to go.
She starts toward the parking lot. Lester stays behind.
LESTER
So, what are you girls doing now?
JANE
Dad.
ANGELA
We're going out for pizza.
LESTER
Oh really, do you need a ride? We can give you a ride. I have a car. You wanna come with us?
ANGELA
Thanks... but I have a car.
LESTER
Oh, you have a car. Oh. That's great! That's great, because Janie's thinking about getting a car soon
too, aren't you, honey?
JANE
(you freak)
Dad. Mom's waiting for you.
LESTER
Well, it was very nice meeting you, Angela. Any, uh, friend of Janie's is a friend of mine.
Angela smiles, aware of the power she has over him. He is mesmerized; grateful, even.
LESTER (cont'd)
Well... I'll be seeing you around then.
Lester waves awkwardly as he crosses off.
JANE
Could he be any more pathetic?
ANGELA
I think it's sweet. And I think he and your mother have not had sex in a long time.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - A FEW HOURS LATER
CLOSE on a solitary red ROSE PETAL as it falls slowly through the air.
We're looking down on Lester and Carolyn in bed. Even in sleep, Carolyn looks determined. Lester
is awake and stares up at us.
LESTER
It's the weirdest thing.
The ROSE PETAL drifts into view, landing on his pillow.
LESTER (cont'd)
I feel like I've been in a coma for about twenty years, and I'm just now waking up.
More ROSE PETALS fall onto the bed, and he smiles up at...
His POV: Angela, naked, FLOATS above us as a deluge of ROSE PETALS falls around her. Her
hair fans out around her head and GLOWS with a subtle, burnished light. She looks down at us with
a smile that is all things...
Lester smiles back and LAUGHS, as ROSE PETALS cover his face.
LESTER (cont'd)
Spec-tac-ular.
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - CONTINUOUS
A WHITE BMW 328si CONVERTIBLE is parked on the street outside the Burnham's house. We
HEAR girlish LAUGHTER from inside.
INT. ANGELA'S BMW - CONTINUOUS
Angela is behind the wheel, Jane in the passenger seat. They're passing a JOINT back and forth.
JANE
I'm sorry my dad was so weird tonight.
ANGELA
It's okay. I'm used to guys drooling over me. It started when I was about twelve, I'd go out to dinner
with my parents. Every Thursday night, Red Lobster. And every guy there would stare at me when I
walked in. And I knew what they were thinking. Just like I knew guys at school thought about me
when they jerked off.
JANE
Vomit.
ANGELA
No, I liked it. And I still like it. If people I don't even know look at me and want to fuck me, it means
I really have a shot at being a model. Which is great, because there's nothing worse in life than being
ordinary.
An awkward beat. Jane stares at the floor.
JANE
I really think it'll happen for you.
ANGELA
Oh, I know. Because everything that was meant to happen, does. Eventually.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
On VIDEO: Jane gets out of the car, still LAUGHING, and waves as Angela pulls away. We
ZOOM toward Jane as she walks up the driveway. She turns suddenly, sensing our presence.
Her POV: We're looking at the COLONIAL HOUSE next door where the moving van was parked
earlier. The front porch is shrouded in darkness... then a PORCH LIGHT abruptly reveals Ricky. As
usual, he's dressed conservatively. There is a BEEPER attached to his belt, and his DIGICAM
dangles loosely around his neck.
Irritated, Jane stares at him, hard.
JANE
Asshole.
He looks back at her curiously, then raises his Digicam and starts to videotape her.
His POV, on VIDEO: Jane, angry and self-conscious, turns and walks quickly toward her house,
flipping us off as she goes.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FOYER - CONTINUOUS
Jane enters, closes and locks the door. She quickly TURNS OFF THE LIGHT that's been left on for
her, then peeks through a window.
Her POV: There's no sign of Ricky.
Jane turns back into the room, her heart racing... and smiles.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S BEDROOM - THE NEXT MORNING
CLOSE on an ADDRESS BOOK: A man's hand flips to the H page and then his finger stops at the
name Angela Hayes.
Lester, dressed for work, goes through Jane's address book. We HEAR the SHOWER running in the
adjacent bathroom. He grabs Jane's phone and dials, then stands with the receiver to his ear, nervous.
ANGELA
(over phone line)
Hello? Hello?
Lester is frozen, unable to speak. Suddenly, the SHOWER is turned off in the next room. Lester
hangs up and exits quickly. A moment, then the PHONE RINGS. Jane emerges from the bathroom, a
towel wrapped around her torso, drying her wet hair. She picks up the PHONE.
JANE
Hello?
INT. HAYES HOUSE - ANGELA'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Angela is sprawled across her bed, on the phone.
ANGELA
Why'd you call me?
INTERCUT WITH JANE IN HER BEDROOM:
JANE
I didn't.
ANGELA
Well, my phone just rang and I answered it and somebody hung up and then I star sixty-nined and it
called you back.
JANE
I was in the shower.
Then Jane notices her address book open to the H page.
JANE (cont'd)
Oh, gross.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
On VIDEO: We're across from Jane's WINDOW, looking in. Jane picks up the address book,
frowning. She speaks into the phone, but we can't hear her.
WOMAN'S VOICE (O.C.)
(sing song)
Rick-y! Break-fast!
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky stands at his window, videotaping. He lowers his Digicam, but his eyes remain locked on Jane
across the way.
RICKY
Be right there.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
BARBARA FITTS stands at the stove, flipping bacon strips mechanically, her eyes focused
elsewhere. At least ten years younger than her husband, she's pretty in a June Cleaver-ish way. The
Colonel sits at a dinette reading The Wall Street Journal. Ricky enters.
RICKY
Mom.
Startled, Barbara turns to him.
BARBARA
Hello.
As she attempts to serve him bacon:
RICKY
I don't eat bacon, remember?
BARBARA
(unnerved)
I'm sorry, I must have forgotten.
Ricky serves himself scrambled eggs from another pan, then joins his father at the table.
RICKY
What's new in the world, Dad?
COLONEL
This country is going straight to hell.
A DOORBELL rings. The Colonel and Barbara look at each other, alarmed.
COLONEL (cont'd)
Are you expecting anyone?
BARBARA
No.
(thinks)
No.
The Colonel heads toward the living room, a little puffed up.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - FOYER - MOMENTS LATER
The Colonel opens the front door to reveal the two JIMS.
JIM #1
Hi.
JIM #2
Welcome to the neighborhood.
Jim #1 holds out a basket filled with flowers, vegetables and a small white cardboard box tied with
raffia.
JIM #1
Just a little something from our garden.
JIM #2
Except for the pasta, we got that at Fallaci's.
JIM #1
It's unbelievably fresh. You just drop it in the water and it's done.
The Colonel stares at them, suspicious.
JIM #1 (cont'd)
(offers his hand)
Jim Olmeyer. Two doors down. Welcome to the neighborhood.
COLONEL
(shakes)
Colonel Frank Fitts, U.S. Marine Corps.
JIM #1
Nice to meet you. And this is my partner...
JIM #2
(offers his hand)
Jim Berkley, but people call me J.B.
COLONEL
Let's cut to the chase, okay? What are you guys selling?
JIM #2
(after a beat)
Nothing. We just wanted to say hi to our new neighbors--
COLONEL
Yeah, yeah, yeah. But you said you're partners. So what's your business?
The Jims look at each other, then back at the Colonel.
JIM #1
Well, he's a tax attorney.
JIM #2
And he's an anesthesiologist.
The Colonel looks at them, confused. Then it dawns on him.
INT. COLONEL'S FORD EXPLORER - LATER
The Colonel drives, staring darkly at the road ahead. In the passenger seat, Ricky is using a
CALCULATOR and jotting numbers down in a NOTEBOOK.
COLONEL
How come these faggots always have to rub it in your face? How can they be so shameless?
RICKY
That's the whole thing, Dad. They don't feel like it's anything to be ashamed of.
The Colonel looks at Ricky sharply.
COLONEL
Well, it is.
A beat, as Ricky continues his calculations, before he realizes a response is expected from him.
Then:
RICKY
Yeah, you're right.
The Colonel's eyes flash angrily.
COLONEL
Don't placate me like I'm your mother, boy.
Ricky sighs, then looks at his father.
RICKY
Forgive me, sir, for speaking so bluntly, but those fags make me want to puke my fucking guts out.
The Colonel is taken aback but quickly covers.
COLONEL
Me too, son. Me too.
Case closed, Ricky goes back to his calculations.
CLOSE on the pencil in his hands: He's totaling two columns of NUMBERS. Under the column
"Income" he writes in swift, bold strokes: $24,950.00.
EXT. HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS - A SHORT TIME LATER
Jane and Angela are standing with two other TEENAGE GIRLS.
ANGELA
I'm serious, he just pulled down his pants and yanked it out. You know, like, say hello to Mr. Happy.
TEENAGE GIRL #1
Gross.
ANGELA
It wasn't gross. It was kind of cool.
TEENAGE GIRL #1
So, did you do it with him?
ANGELA
Of course I did. He is a really well-known photographer? He shoots for Elle on like, a regular basis?
It would have been so majorly stupid of me to turn him down.
TEENAGE GIRL #2
You are a total prostitute.
ANGELA
Hey. That's how things really are. You just don't know, because you're this pampered little suburban
chick.
TEENAGE GIRL #2
So are you. You've only been in Seventeen once, and you looked fat, so stop acting like you're
goddamn Christy Turlington.
The two TEENAGE GIRLS move away from Jane and Angela.
ANGELA
(calling off)
Cunt!
(then)
I am so sick of people taking their insecurities out on me.
The Colonel's Ford Explorer pulls up, and Ricky gets out.
JANE
Oh my God. That's the pervert who filmed me last night.
ANGELA
Him? Jane. No way. He's a total lunatic.
JANE
You know him?
ANGELA
Yeah. We were on the same lunch shift when I was in ninth grade, and he would always say the most
random, weird things, and then one day, he was just like, gone. And then, Connie Cardullo told me
he his parents had to put him in a mental institution.
JANE
Why? What did he do?
ANGELA
What do you mean?
JANE
Well, they can't put you away just for saying weird things.
Angela stares at Jane, then her mouth widens into a smile.
ANGELA
You total slut. You've got a crush on him.
JANE
What? Please.
ANGELA
You were defending him! You love him. You want to have like, ten thousand of his babies.
JANE
Shut up.
Jane suddenly finds Ricky standing in front of her.
RICKY
Hi. My name's Ricky. I just moved next door to you.
JANE
I know. I kinda remember this really creepy incident when you were filming me last night?
RICKY
I didn't mean to scare you. I just think you're interesting.
Angela shoots a wide-eyed look at Jane, who ignores it.
JANE
Thanks, but I really don't need to have some psycho obsessing about me right now.
RICKY
I'm not obsessing. I'm just curious.
He looks at her intently, his eyes searching hers. Jane is unnerved and has to look away. Ricky
smiles and walks off.
ANGELA
What a freak. And why does he dress like a Bible salesman?
JANE
He's like, so confident. That can't be real.
ANGELA
I don't believe him. I mean, he didn't even like, look at me once.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - DEN - THAT NIGHT
CLOSE on a TV SCREEN: "Hogan's Heroes" on Nick at Nite.
The Colonel and Barbara are seated on a couch, watching television. The Colonel is smiling,
enjoying the show; Barbara just stares. The Colonel CHUCKLES at a joke and startles her.
We HEAR a door opening elsewhere in the house, and Ricky enters.
RICKY
Hey.
He sits on the couch, next to his father, and watches TV along with them. The Colonel's smile fades.
BARBARA
(out of the blue)
I'm sorry, what?
RICKY
Mom. Nobody said anything.
BARBARA
Oh. I'm sorry.
The three of them stare at the TV, like strangers in an airport.
INT. HOTEL BALLROOM - NIGHT
We HEAR MUSIC under a room full of people all talking at once, as Lester and Carolyn enter a
hotel ballroom. We FOLLOW THEM as they pass a SIGN that reads:
GREATER ROCKWELL REALTOR RESOURCES GROUP
CAROLYN
--everyone here is with their spouse or their significant other. How would it look if I showed up with
no one?
LESTER
Well, you always end up ignoring me and going off--
Inside the ballroom, well-dressed real estate professionals stand in clumps, chatting. Catering waiters
serve hors d'eouvres.
CAROLYN
Now listen to me. This is an important business function. As you know, my business is selling an
image. And part of my job is to live that image--
LESTER
Just say whatever you want to say and spare me the propaganda.
CAROLYN
(spots someone)
Hi, Shirley!
(to Lester)
Listen, just do me a favor. Act happy tonight?
LESTER
(grins stupidly)
I am happy, honey.
Carolyn's jaw tightens, then:
CAROLYN
(spots someone)
Oh! Buddy!
She drags Lester toward a silver-haired MAN and his much younger WIFE. We recognize the Man
as BUDDY KANE, The Real Estate King.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
(shakes Buddy's hand)
Buddy! Buddy. Hi! Good to see you again.
BUDDY
It's so good to see you too, Catherine.
CAROLYN
Carolyn.
BUDDY
Carolyn! Of course. How are you?
CAROLYN
Very well, thank you.
(to his wife)
Hello, Christy.
CHRISTY
Hello.
CAROLYN
My husband, Lester--
BUDDY
(shakes Lester's hand)
It's a pleasure.
LESTER
Oh, we've met before, actually. This thing last year. Or the Christmas thing at the Sheraton.
BUDDY
Oh, yes.
LESTER
It's okay. I wouldn't remember me either.
He LAUGHS. A little too loudly. Carolyn quickly joins in.
CAROLYN
(forced gaiety)
Honey. Don't be weird.
She smiles her most winning smile at him. He knows this persona well, only it's never pissed him off
as much as it does right now.
LESTER
All right, honey. I won't be weird.
(his face close to hers)
I'll be whatever you want me to be.
And he kisses her--a soft, warm kiss that speaks unmistakably of sex--then turns to the others and
grins.
LESTER (cont'd)
We have a very healthy relationship.
BUDDY
I see.
Carolyn's smile is frozen on her face.
LESTER
Well. I don't know about you, but I need a drink.
He crosses off. Carolyn, Buddy and Christy watch him go.
INT. HOTEL BALLROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Lester stands at the bar. A bartender pours him a drink.
LESTER
Whoa. Put a little more in there, cowboy.
The bartender complies. Lester takes his drink and turns to face the center of the room.
His POV: Carolyn is talking to Buddy and Christy. She's on: smiling, animated, LAUGHING too
loud at their jokes.
Lester shakes his head. Ricky approaches him, wearing a waiter's uniform, carrying a tray of empty
glasses.
RICKY
Excuse me. Don't you live on Robin Hood Trail? The house with the red door?
LESTER
(suspicious)
Yeah.
RICKY
I'm Ricky Fitts. I just moved into the house next to you.
LESTER
Oh. Hi, Ricky Fitts. I'm Lester Burnham.
RICKY
Hi, Lester Burnham.
A beat. Lester looks away, scans the crowd, then downs the rest of his drink in one gulp. Ricky just
stands there, watching him. Finally Lester turns back to Ricky: what does this kid want?
RICKY (cont'd)
Do you party?
LESTER
Excuse me?
RICKY
Do you get high?
Lester's surprised, but instantly intrigued.
INT. HOTEL BALLROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Carolyn and Buddy are deep in conversation. Christy has wandered off. Carolyn is nervous; Buddy
seems amused.
CAROLYN
You know, I probably wouldn't even tell you this if I weren't a little tipsy, but... I am in complete
awe of you. I mean, your firm is, hands down, the Rolls Royce of local Real Estate firms, and your
personal sales record is, is, is very intimidating. You know, I'd love to sit down with you and just
pick your brain, if you'd ever be willing. I suppose, technically, I'm the "competition," but... I mean,
hey, I don't flatter myself that I'm even in the same league as you...
BUDDY
I'd love to.
CAROLYN
(shocked)
Really?
BUDDY
Absolutely. Call my secretary and have her schedule a lunch.
CAROLYN
I'll do that. Thank you.
They look at each other for a beat, then look away. This situation is loaded and they both know it.
EXT. HOTEL - LATER
Ricky and Lester stand next to a dumpster behind the service entrance to the hotel, smoking a
JOINT.
LESTER
...did you ever see that movie, where the body's walking around holding its own head? And then the
head goes down on that babe?
RICKY
Re-Animator.
Suddenly, the service entrance opens, and a large CATERING BOSS in a cheap suit peers out at
them. Ricky hides the joint.
CATERING BOSS
(to Ricky)
Look. I'm not paying you to...
(eyes Lester, suspiciously)
...do whatever it is you're doing out here.
RICKY
Fine. So don't pay me.
CATERING BOSS
Excuse me?
RICKY
I quit. So you don't have to pay me. Now, leave me alone.
CATERING BOSS
Asshole.
He goes back inside. Lester looks at Ricky, who shrugs.
LESTER
I think you just became my personal hero.
(then)
Doesn't that make you nervous, just quitting your job like that? Well, I guess when you're all of,
what? Sixteen?
RICKY
Eighteen.
(then)
I just do these gigs as a cover. I have other sources of income. But my dad interferes less in my life
when I pretend to be an upstanding young citizen with a respectable job.
CAROLYN (O.C.)
Lester?
Carolyn is standing in the open service entrance. Lester quickly hides the joint behind his back.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
What are you doing?
LESTER
Honey, this is...
(laughs)
Ricky Fitts. This is Ricky Fitts.
RICKY
I'm Ricky Fitts, I just moved in the house next to you. I go to school with your daughter.
LESTER
With Jane? Really?
RICKY
Yeah. Jane.
CAROLYN
Hi.
(then, to Lester)
I'm ready to go. I'll meet you out front.
And she goes back inside.
LESTER
Uh-oh. I'm in trouble. Nice meeting you, Ricky Fitts. Thanks for the, uh, thing.
RICKY
Any time.
Lester goes inside.
RICKY (cont'd)
(calls after him)
Lester. If you want any more, you know where I live.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FAMILY ROOM - LATER
Jane and Angela are watching MTV. We HEAR the back door open.
JANE
Oh, shit. They're home. Quick, let's go up to my room.
Jane switches off the TV.
ANGELA
I should say hi to your dad.
(off Jane's look)
I don't want to be rude.
She starts toward the kitchen. Jane doesn't like this.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
Lester enters and opens the refrigerator.
ANGELA (O.C.)
Nice suit.
He turns, and is instantly transfixed by:
His POV: Angela leans against the counter, twirling her hair.
ANGELA (cont'd)
You're looking good, Mr. Burnham.
She starts toward him.
ANGELA (cont'd)
Last time I saw you, you looked kind of wound up.
(spots something)
Ooh, is that root beer?
She reaches inside the refrigerator to grab a bottle. As she does, she moves to place her other hand
casually on Lester's shoulder. He sees it coming. Everything SLOWS DOWN, and all sound
FADES...
EXTREME CLOSE UP on her hand as it briefly touches his shoulder in SLOW MOTION. We
HEAR only the amplified BRUSH of her fingers against the fabric of his suit, and its unnatural,
hollow ECHO...
BACK IN REAL TIME: She grabs the root beer and smiles at him.
CLOSE on Lester: his eyes narrow slightly, then:
He cups her face in his hands and kisses her. She seems shocked, but doesn't resist as he pulls her
toward him with surprising strength. He breaks the kiss, looking at her in awe, then he reaches up
and touches his lips. His eyes widen as he pulls a ROSE PETAL from his mouth right before we
SMASH CUT TO:
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
Angela is back against the counter, drinking the root beer. Lester stands by the refrigerator, gazing at
her, still lost in fantasy.
ANGELA
I love root beer, don't you?
Jane watches from the doorway to the family room, feeling incredibly awkward in her own home.
Carolyn enters from the dining room. Lester snaps out of it and grabs a root beer from the
refrigerator.
JANE
Mom, you remember Angela.
CAROLYN
(her sales smile)
Yes, of course!
JANE
I forgot to tell you, she's spending the night. Is that okay?
LESTER
Sure!
He takes a sip of his root beer, but it goes down the wrong way and he starts COUGHING violently.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S BEDROOM - LATER THAT NIGHT
Angela lays on the bed, in bra and panties, reading a magazine. Jane, in an oversized T shirt, plays a
video game on her computer.
JANE
I'm sorry about my dad.
ANGELA
Don't be. I think it's funny.
JANE
Yeah, to you, he's just another guy who wants to jump your bones. But to me... he's just too
embarrassing to live.
ANGELA
Your mom's the one who's embarrassing. What a phony.
Jane glances at Angela, irritated.
ANGELA (cont'd)
Your dad's actually kind of cute.
JANE
Shut up.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Lester, still in his suit, stands outside Jane's room, his ear up against the door. He can't believe what
he's hearing.
ANGELA (O.C.)
He is. If he just worked out a little, he'd be hot.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
JANE
Shut up.
ANGELA
Oh, come on. Like you've never sneaked a peek at him in his underwear? I bet he's got a big dick.
JANE
You are so grossing me out right now.
ANGELA
(really enjoying this)
If he built up his chest and arms, I would totally fuck him.
Jane covers her ears and starts SINGING to drown her out.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Lester, still listening, looks like he's about to implode.
ANGELA (O.C.)
(laughs)
I would! I would suck your dad's big fat dick, and then I would fuck him 'til his eyes rolled back in
his head!
(then)
What was that noise? Jane.
Jane's SINGING stops.
ANGELA (O.C.) (cont'd)
I swear I heard something.
Panicked, Lester scurries down the hall.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
JANE
Yeah, it was the sound of you being a huge disgusting pig.
ANGELA
I'm serious.
We HEAR the sharp TAP of a penny being thrown against glass.
ANGELA (cont'd)
See?
Angela crosses to the window and looks out.
ANGELA (cont'd)
(spots something)
Oh my God. Jane.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
We see Angela standing at the window in her underwear, looking down at us. Jane joins her and is
immediately unnerved by:
Their POV: In the Burnham's DRIVEWAY, the word "JANE" is spelled out in FIRE.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
ANGELA
It's that psycho next door. Jane, what if he worships you? What if he's got a shrine with pictures of
you surrounded by dead people's heads and stuff?
JANE
Shit. I bet he's filming us right now.
ANGELA
(intrigued)
Really?
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
On VIDEO: We're across from Jane's window, looking in. Jane tries to shut the drapes, but Angela
won't let her. Irritated, Jane retreats into the room. We ZOOM toward her, even as Angela poses in
the window; we're clearly not interested in Angela. The ZOOM continues, searching for Jane, who
has disappeared. Finally, we settle on the small make-up MIRROR where we see a REFLECTION
of Jane, back at her computer. She's smiling. Then suddenly the DRAPES CLOSE and she's gone.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky sits in darkness with his DIGICAM, videotaping. He lowers the camera and smiles... then
something below catches his attention. He leans out the window to get a better look at:
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Ricky's POV: Through a WINDOW on the side of the Burnham's GARAGE DOOR, we see Lester,
still in his suit, digging through shelves against the back wall.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Lester digs through stuff stored on the shelves, searching for something as if his very life depended
on it.
LESTER
Shit. Shit!
He yanks aside COLLEGE YEARBOOKS, a racquetball RACQUET, boxes of old HOT ROD
MAGAZINES, an unopened remote-controlled MODEL JEEP KIT, stacks of old vinyl LPs... finally
his face lights up when he finds:
A pair of DUMBBELLS obviously unused for many years.
Lester rips off his jacket and tie and unbuttons his shirt. He glances around, finding his
REFLECTION in the WINDOW as he pulls off his shirt, then the T-shirt underneath. He eyes
himself critically: Angela was right, he's not in bad shape. Just a few extra pounds around his middle
that wouldn't be hard to shed. He kicks off his shoes and begins to step out of his pants.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky holds his Digicam up and starts to videotape.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Ricky's POV, on VIDEO: Through a WINDOW on the side of the Burnham's garage, we see Lester
step out of his pants and briefs. Then, naked except for his black socks, he grabs the dumbbells and
starts lifting them, watching his reflection in the window as he does.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky stands at the window, videotaping.
RICKY
Welcome to America's Weirdest Home Videos.
Suddenly we HEAR someone trying to open a locked door.
COLONEL (O.C.)
Ricky!
Moving swiftly, Ricky pulls the drapes shut and switches on a light. His room is a haven of hightech.
A state-of-the-art multimedia COMPUTER crowds his desk, and high-end STEREO and
VIDEO EQUIPMENT line the shelves, as well as HUNDREDS OF CDs. There is easily twenty
thousand dollars worth of equipment in this room.
RICKY
Coming, Dad.
COLONEL (O.C.)
You know I don't like locked doors in my house, boy.
Ricky opens the door. The Colonel stands outside, eyeing him.
RICKY
I'm sorry, I must have locked it by accident. So what's up?
The Colonel holds out a small PLASTIC CUP WITH A CAP.
COLONEL
I need a urine sample.
RICKY
Wow. It's been six months already. Can I give it to you in the morning? I just took a whiz.
COLONEL
Yeah, I suppose.
(an awkward beat)
Well. Good night, son.
He disappears down the hall. Ricky smiles, shuts and locks his door. He puts the plastic cup on the
shelf, then crosses to a MINI REFRIGERATOR in the corner of his room and takes out a cup-sized
TUPPERWARE CONTAINER from the freezer, already filled with urine, albeit frozen, and places it
on a saucer to thaw overnight.
INT BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - LATER THAT NIGHT
Carolyn lies sleeping. Lester is awake, staring at the ceiling. After a moment, he gets up, taking care
not to disturb Carolyn, and walks toward the bathroom.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BATH - CONTINUOUS
Lester enters and switches on the LIGHT. The room is filled with STEAM. Lester looks around,
confused, then focuses on:
His POV: Across from us, in a PEDESTAL BATHTUB, is Angela. She smiles and beckons us, and
we MOVE CLOSER. ROSE PETALS float on the surface of the water, obscuring her naked body.
ANGELA
I've been waiting for you.
Lester kneels by the bathtub like a man in church.
ANGELA (cont'd)
You've been working out, haven't you? I can tell.
She arches her back and looks up at him provocatively.
ANGELA (cont'd)
I was hoping you'd give me a bath... I'm very, very dirty.
Lester gives her a hard look, then slowly slips his hand into the water between her legs. Her eyes
widen and she throws her head back... and we SMASH CUT TO:
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
CLOSE on Carolyn, her eyes wide, listening to the rhythmic BRUSH of Lester's hand as he
masturbates under the covers.
She flips over and faces him.
CAROLYN
What are you doing?
A beat.
LESTER
Nothing.
Carolyn switches on the bedside LIGHT.
CAROLYN
You were masturbating.
LESTER
I was not.
CAROLYN
Yes, you were.
He turns to her, trying to look innocent, then gives up.
LESTER
All right, so shoot me. I was whacking off.
Carolyn gets out of bed, repelled. Lester LAUGHS.
LESTER (cont'd)
That's right. I was choking the bishop. Shaving the carrot. Saying hi to my monster.
CAROLYN
That's disgusting.
LESTER
Well, excuse me, but I still have blood pumping through my veins!
CAROLYN
So do I!
LESTER
Really? I'm the only one who seems to be doing anything about it.
CAROLYN
Lester. I refuse to live like this. This is not a marriage.
LESTER
This hasn't been a marriage for years. But you were happy as long as I kept my mouth shut. Well,
guess what? I've changed. And the new me whacks off when he feels horny, because you're
obviously not going to help me out in that department.
CAROLYN
Oh. I see. You think you're the only one who's sexually frustrated?
LESTER
I'm not? Well then, come on, baby! I'm ready.
CAROLYN
(furious)
Do not mess with me, mister, or I will divorce you so fast it'll make your head spin!
LESTER
On what grounds? I'm not a drunk, I don't fuck other women, I don't mistreat you, I've never hit you,
or even tried to touch you since you made it so abundantly clear just how unnecessary you consider
me to be. But. I did support you while you got your license. And some people might think that
entitles me to half of what's yours.
She sinks into a chair, stunned. It's clear he knows where she's most vulnerable. He sees this, and
likes it; it feels good to win for a change. He curls up under the covers contentedly.
LESTER (cont'd)
Turn out the light when you come to bed, okay?
CLOSE on Lester, smiling.
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - EARLY MORNING
We're FLYING high above the neighborhood. Below us we see the two Jims, jogging. We
APPROACH them steadily.
LESTER
It's a great thing when you realize you still have the ability to surprise yourself. Makes you wonder
what else you can do that you've forgotten about.
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - CONTINUOUS
We're now at street level, FOLLOWING the two Jims.
LESTER
Hey! You guys!
Still running, the Jims turn back in perfect unison, as Lester runs INTO FRAME, wearing a baggy
sweatshirt and a pair of faded old sweatpants. The Jims slow down until he catches up, then the three
men run together in the early morning light.
JIM #2
Lester, I didn't know you ran.
LESTER
(panting)
Well, I just started.
JIM #1
Good for you.
LESTER
I figured you guys might be able to give me some pointers. I need to shape up. Fast.
JIM #1
Well, are you just looking to lose weight, or do you want have increased strength and flexibility as
well?
LESTER
I want to look good naked.
EXT. FITTS HOUSE - A SHORT TIME LATER
The Colonel is washing his Ford Explorer, squatting to scrub the bumper, when something Catches
his eye:
His POV: Lester and the Jims jog down the street.
The Colonel stands, scowling, as Ricky comes out of the house, holding the URINE SAMPLE in
front of him.
COLONEL
What is this, the fucking gay pride parade?
Lester breaks off from the two Jims and jogs up to Ricky and the Colonel, out of breath. He grabs
hold of his knees and bends over, panting.
LESTER
Hey! Yo! Ricky!
(re: the Jims)
My entire life is passing before my eyes, and those two have barely broken a sweat.
He LAUGHS, and extends his hand to the Colonel.
LESTER (cont'd)
Sorry, hi. Lester Burnham, I live next door. We haven't met.
COLONEL
(shakes)
COLONEL Frank Fitts, U.S. Marine Corps.
LESTER
Whoa. Welcome to the neighborhood, sir.
He salutes the Colonel good-naturedly, grinning. The Colonel doesn't think it's funny. An awkward
beat.
LESTER (cont'd)
So, Ricky, uh, I was thinking about the, uh... I was gonna... the movie we talked about...
RICKY
(quickly)
Re-Animator.
LESTER
Yeah!
RICKY
You want to borrow it?
(before Lester can answer)
Okay, it's up in my room. Come on.
He heads into the house. Lester waves at the Colonel, then follows him. The Colonel watches them
go, his eyes dark.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Ricky enters, followed by Lester.
RICKY
Can you hold this for a sec?
LESTER
Sure.
He gives the URINE SPECIMEN to Lester, then locks the door.
RICKY
I don't think my dad would try to come in when somebody else is here, but you never know.
Ricky crosses to a bureau and opens a DRAWER. He takes clothing out and piles it on his bed.
LESTER
(re: urine sample)
What is this?
RICKY
Urine. I have to take a drug test every six months to make sure I'm clean.
LESTER
Are you kidding? You just smoked with me last night.
RICKY
It's not mine. One of my clients is a nurse in a pediatrician's office. I cut her a deal, she keeps me in
clean piss.
Lester picks up a CD case from a shelf and examines it.
LESTER
You like Pink Floyd?
RICKY
I like a lot of music.
LESTER
Man, I haven't listened to this album in years.
He shakes his head, then puts the CD case down. Ricky, having emptied the drawer, now removes a
FALSE BOTTOM, revealing rows of MARIJUANA, tightly packed in ZIP-LOC BAGS.
RICKY
How much do you want?
LESTER
I don't know, it's been a while. How much is an ounce?
RICKY
(indicates bag)
Well, this is totally decent, and it's three hundred.
LESTER
Wow.
RICKY
(indicates another bag)
But this shit is top of the line. It's called G-13. Genetically engineered by the U.S. Government.
Extremely potent. But a completely mellow high, no paranoia.
LESTER
Is that what we smoked last night?
RICKY
This is all I ever smoke.
LESTER
How much?
RICKY
Two grand.
LESTER
Jesus. Things have changed since 1973.
RICKY
You don't have to pay now. I know you're good for it.
A beat.
LESTER
Thanks.
RICKY
(hands him a bag)
There's a card in there with my beeper number, call me anytime day or night. And I only accept cash.
LESTER
(looks around room)
Well, now I know how you can afford all this equipment. When I was your age, I flipped burgers all
summer just to be able to buy an eight track.
RICKY
That sucks.
LESTER
No actually, it was great. All I did was party and get laid.
(smiles)
I had my whole life ahead of me...
RICKY
My dad thinks I pay for all this with catering jobs.
(off Lester's look)
Never underestimate the power of denial.
Lester smiles. This kid's cool.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - LATER
Carolyn, carrying a basket of fresh cut ROSES, passes by the GARAGE WINDOW. From inside the
garage, we HEAR ROCK MUSIC.
Carolyn stops and SNIFFS the air, frowning. She peers through the window.
Her POV: Lester, in a T-shirt and gym shorts, lies on a new WEIGHT BENCH, doing bench presses
with shiny new BARBELLS.
INT. GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
ROCK MUSIC blasts from a new BOOMBOX on the floor.
The garage is in the process of becoming Lester's sanctuary. An ugly but comfortable 70's BOWL
CHAIR has been pulled out and cleaned off, his old hot rod magazines strewn across it, and the
remote-controlled MODEL JEEP KIT is spread across a card table. The SHELVES that Lester tore
through earlier have been dismantled, leaving a blank wall on which now hangs a DART BOARD.
Lester finishes his last rep, straining, then puts the weights in their rack and sits up. As he takes a
drag off a joint, the GARAGE DOOR suddenly starts to open. Lester looks up, squinting at:
His POV: The door raises to reveal Carolyn, silhouetted against the bright sunlight outside, pointing
a REMOTE at us.
LESTER
Uh-oh, mom's mad.
CAROLYN
What the hell do you think you're doing?
LESTER
Bench presses. I'm going to wail on my pecs, and then I'm going to do my back.
CAROLYN
I see you're smoking pot now. I'm so glad. I think using illegal psychotropic substances is a very
positive example to set for our daughter.
LESTER
You're one to talk, you bloodless, money- grubbing freak.
CAROLYN
(hostile)
Lester. You have such hostility in you!
LESTER
Do you mind? I'm trying to work out here.
(then, suggestively)
Unless you want to spot me.
CAROLYN
You will not get away with this. You can be sure of that!
And she's gone. Lester leans back on the bench and grabs the weights.
LESTER
(as he lifts)
That's. What. You. Think.
INT. BRAD'S OFFICE - DAY
Brad is seated behind his desk, reading a document. Lester sits across from him, smiling.
BRAD
(reads)
"...my job consists of basically masking my contempt for the assholes in charge, and, at least once a
day, retiring to the men's room so I can jerk off, while I fantasize about a life that doesn't so closely
resemble hell."
(looks up at Lester)
Well, you obviously have no interest in saving yourself.
LESTER
(laughs)
Brad, for fourteen years I've been a whore for the advertising industry. The only way I could save
myself now is if I start firebombing.
BRAD
Whatever. Management wants you gone by the end of the day.
LESTER
Well, just what sort of severance package is "management" prepared to offer me? Considering the
information I have about our editorial director buying pussy with company money.
A beat.
LESTER (cont'd)
Which I'm sure would interest the I.R.S., since it technically constitutes fraud. And I'm sure that
some of our advertisers and rival publications might like to know about it as well. Not to mention,
Craig's wife.
Brad sighs.
BRAD
What do you want?
LESTER
One year's salary, with benefits.
BRAD
That's not going to happen.
LESTER
Well, what do you say I throw in a little sexual harassment charge to boot?
Brad LAUGHS.
BRAD
Against who?
LESTER
Against you.
Brad stops laughing.
LESTER (cont'd)
Can you prove you didn't offer to save my job if I'd let you blow me?
Brad leans back in his chair, studying Lester.
BRAD
Man. You are one twisted fuck.
LESTER
(standing)
Nope. I'm just an ordinary guy with nothing to lose.
INT. OFFICE BUILDING - MOMENTS LATER
Exhilarated, Lester walks down a corridor, his belongings in a box on his shoulder. He's happier than
he's been in years.
LESTER
Yeah!
INT. RESTAURANT - LATER THAT DAY
Carolyn sits at a table, lost in thought. There are two menus on the table. After a moment, Buddy
Kane, the Real Estate King, joins her. Carolyn immediately becomes warm and gracious.
BUDDY
Carolyn.
CAROLYN
Buddy.
Carolyn smiles, genuinely touched that he remembers her name.
BUDDY
I'm so sorry I kept you waiting. Christy left for New York this morning, and... let's just say things
were very hectic around the house.
CAROLYN
What's she doing in New York?
BUDDY
She's moving there.
(off Carolyn's look)
Yes. We are splitting up.
CAROLYN
Buddy. I'm so sorry.
BUDDY
(bitterly)
Yes, according to her, I'm too focused on my career. As if being driven to succeed is some sort of
character flaw. Well, she certainly knew how to take advantage of the lifestyle my success afforded
her. Oh. Wow.
(then, laughing)
Ah, it's for the best.
CAROLYN
When I saw you two at the party the other night, you seemed perfectly happy.
BUDDY
Well, call me crazy, but it is my philosophy that in order to be successful, one must project an image
of success, at all times.
He smiles, then opens his menu. Carolyn picks hers up mechanically, but continues to stare at him,
enraptured, like a fervent Christian who's just come face to face with Jesus.
EXT. HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS - LATER THAT DAY
Ricky stands with his DIGICAM, videotaping something on the ground at his feet.
On VIDEO: A DEAD BIRD lays on the ground, decomposing.
ANGELA (O.C.)
What are you doing?
On VIDEO: The camera JERKS up to discover Jane and Angela staring at us.
RICKY (O.C.)
I was filming this dead bird.
ANGELA
Why?
RICKY (O.C.)
Because it's beautiful.
On VIDEO: Angela looks at Jane, trying not to laugh.
ANGELA
I think maybe you forgot your medication today, mental boy.
On VIDEO: She falls out of frame as we ZOOM toward Jane.
RICKY (O.C.)
Hi, Jane.
JANE
(uncomfortable)
Look. I want you to stop filming me.
Ricky lowers the Digicam.
RICKY
Okay.
He looks at her, curious, his eyes searching hers. She doesn't look away.
ANGELA
Well, whatever.
(to Jane)
This is boring. Let's go.
JANE
(to Ricky)
Do you need a ride?
ANGELA
(to Jane)
Are you crazy? I don't want to end up hacked to pieces in a dumpster somewhere.
RICKY
It's okay. I'll walk. But thanks.
ANGELA
Yeah, see? He doesn't want to go anyway. C'mon, let's go.
Angela starts off, but Jane doesn't follow. Ricky smiles at her. She almost smiles back, then:
JANE
(calls off to Angela)
I think I'm going to walk, too.
Angela stops and stares at her.
ANGELA
What? Jane, that's like, almost a mile.
EXT. TOP HAT MOTEL - LATER THAT DAY
Carolyn's Mercedes is parked next to a JAGUAR CONVERTIBLE with a VANITY LICENSE
PLATE that reads "R E KING."
INT. TOP HAT MOTEL - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn and Buddy are in the middle of sex.
CAROLYN
Yes! Oh, God! I love it!
BUDDY
You like getting nailed by the king?
CAROLYN
Oh yes! I love it! Fuck me, your majesty!
EXT. STREET - LATER THAT DAY
Lester's TOYOTA CAMRY cruises through the streets. We hear Lester SINGING along to
"AMERICAN WOMAN" on the STEREO.
INT. TOYOTA CAMRY - CONTINUOUS
Lester is driving, smoking a joint.
LESTER
AMERICAN WOMAN, STAY AWAY FROM ME... AMERICAN WOMAN, MAMA LET ME
BE... DON'T COME A HANGIN' AROUND MY DOOR... I DON'T WANT TO SEE YOUR FACE
NO MORE...
EXT. MR. SMILEY'S - CONTINUOUS
Lester continues singing along to "AMERICAN WOMAN," as the Camry pulls into the parking lot
of a FAST FOOD RESTAURANT.
Lester pulls up to the drive-thru speaker box.
DRIVE-THRU GIRL (O.C.)
(over speaker box)
Smile you're at Mr. Smiley's.
Lester turns down the volume on the stereo.
LESTER
What?
DRIVE-THRU GIRL (O.C.)
Would you like to try our new bacon and egg fajita just a dollar twenty-nine for a limited time only.
LESTER
Uh... no. But thank you.
(reading menu)
I'll have a Big Barn Burger, Smiley fries, and an orange soda.
DRIVE-THRU GIRL (O.C.)
Please drive up to the window, thank you.
He pulls the car around to the WINDOW, where a teenage GIRL wearing a headset is waiting.
DRIVE-THRU GIRL (cont'd)
Smile, you're at Mr. Smiley's, that'll be four eighty-nine, please.
Lester pays her. As she hands him his food, he notices a SIGN in the corner of the window that
reads:
NOW TAKING APPLICATIONS
COUNTER GIRL
Would you like some Smiley Sauce?
LESTER
No. No, actually... I'd like to fill out an application.
She stares at him, confused by his age and attire.
COUNTER GIRL
There's not jobs for manager, it's just for counter.
LESTER
Good. I'm looking for the least possible amount of responsibility.
INT. MR. SMILEY'S - A SHORT TIME LATER
Lester sits at a booth with the MANAGER, a greasy kid wearing a white short sleeve shirt and a tie
covered with the Mr. Smiley's logo. He looks over Lester's application, baffled.
MANAGER
I don't think you'd fit in here.
LESTER
I have fast food experience.
MANAGER
Yeah, like twenty years ago.
LESTER
Well, I'm sure there have been amazing technological advances in the industry, but surely you have
some sort of training process. It seems unfair to presume I won't be able to learn.
The Manager sighs and runs a hand through his greasy hair, wondering what he could possibly have
done to deserve this.
INT. TOP HAT MOTEL - LATER THAT DAY
Carolyn and Buddy are in bed, post-sex.
CAROLYN
That was exactly what I needed. The royal treatment, so to speak.
They laugh.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
I was so stressed out.
BUDDY
Know what I do when I feel like that?
CAROLYN
What?
BUDDY
I fire a gun.
Carolyn sits up, eager to learn from the master.
CAROLYN
(intrigued)
Really.
BUDDY
Oh yeah, I go to this little firing range downtown, and I just pop off a few rounds.
CAROLYN
(embarrassed)
I've never fired a gun before.
BUDDY
Oh, you've gotta try it. Nothing makes you feel more powerful.
(smiles seductively)
Well, almost nothing.
Carolyn is quick to pick up her cue and kisses him, ready for another round.
EXT. SUBURBAN STREET - LATER THAT DAY
Ricky and Jane walk along without speaking. He seems comfortable with the silence; she doesn't.
After a beat:
JANE
So how do you like your new house?
RICKY
I like it.
A beat.
JANE
The people who used to live there fed these stray cats, so they were always around, and it drove my
mother nuts. And then she cut down their tree.
An automobile FUNERAL PROCESSION appears and begins to pass them slowly.
RICKY
Have you ever known anybody who died?
JANE
No.
(a beat)
Have you?
RICKY
No, but I did see this homeless woman who froze to death once. Just laying there on the sidewalk.
She looked really sad.
They watch the FUNERAL CARS pass.
RICKY (cont'd)
I got that homeless woman on video.
JANE
Why would you film that?
RICKY
Because it was amazing.
JANE
What was amazing about it?
A beat.
RICKY
When you see something like that, it's like God is looking right at you, just for a second. And if
you're careful, you can look right back.
JANE
And what do you see?
RICKY
Beauty.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Barbara Fitts sits at the kitchen table, staring off into space as if hypnotized. Behind her, Ricky
enters, followed by Jane.
RICKY
Mom, I want you to meet somebody.
(no response)
Mom.
Barbara's eyes flutter and she turns to him slowly.
BARBARA
(pleasant)
Yes?
RICKY
I want you to meet somebody. This is Jane.
JANE
Hi.
BARBARA
Oh, my. I apologize for the way things look around here.
Jane glances around. The room is spotless.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - THE COLONEL'S STUDY - MOMENTS LATER
We HEAR KEYS TURNING in the lock, then the door opens and Ricky enters, holding a RING OF
KEYS, followed by Jane.
RICKY
This is where my dad hides out.
GLASS CASES filled with GUNS line the walls.
JANE
I take it he's got a thing for guns.
Ricky crosses to a built-in CABINET behind the desk.
RICKY
You got to see this one thing...
He unlocks the cabinet and opens it, revealing shelves stacked with WAR MEMORABILIA.
RICKY (cont'd)
My dad would kill me if he knew I was in here.
JANE
Did you steal his keys?
RICKY
No. One of my clients is a locksmith. He was short on cash one night, so I let him pay me in trade.
He reaches into the cabinet and carefully removes an oval CHINA PLATTER, which he hands to
Jane. She examines it.
RICKY (cont'd)
Turn it over.
CLOSE on the bottom of the plate: A small SWASTIKA is imprinted in the center.
JANE
Oh my God.
RICKY
It's like official state china of the Third Reich. There's a whole subculture of people who collect this
Nazi shit. But my dad just has this one thing.
He puts the platter back into the cabinet and shuts the door, then notices Jane looking at him oddly.
RICKY (cont'd)
What's wrong?
JANE
Nothing.
RICKY
(concerned)
No, you're scared of me.
JANE
No I'm not.
But she is. Ricky studies her.
RICKY
You want to see the most beautiful thing I've ever filmed?
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
On VIDEO: We're in an empty parking lot on a cold, gray day. Something is floating across from
us... it's an empty, wrinkled, white PLASTIC BAG. We follow it as the wind carries it in a circle
around us, sometimes whipping it about violently, or, without warning, sending it soaring skyward,
then letting it float gracefully down to the ground...
Jane and Ricky sit on the bed, watching his WIDE-SCREEN TV.
RICKY
It was one of those days when it's a minute away from snowing. And there's this electricity in the air,
you can almost hear it, right? And this bag was just... dancing with me. Like a little kid begging me
to play with it. For fifteen minutes. That's the day I realized that there was this entire life behind
things, and this incredibly benevolent force that wanted me to know there was no reason to be afraid.
Ever.
A beat.
RICKY (cont'd)
Video's a poor excuse, I know. But it helps me remember... I need to remember...
Now Jane is watching him.
RICKY (cont'd)
(distant)
Sometimes there's so much beauty in the world I feel like I can't take it... and my heart is going to
cave in.
After a moment, Jane takes his hand. Then she leans in and kisses him softly on the lips. His eyes
scan hers, curious to see how she reacts to this...
JANE
(suddenly)
Oh my God. What time is it?
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - DINING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Lester sits at the table in sloppy clothes, eating his dinner voraciously and drinking beer from a
bottle. Across from him, Carolyn picks at her food, watching him with contempt. EASYLISTENING
MUSIC plays on the STEREO.
We HEAR the back door SLAM, then Jane enters and quickly takes her seat at the table.
JANE
Sorry I'm late.
CAROLYN
(overly cheerful)
No, no, that's quite all right, dear. Your father and I were just discussing his day at work.
(to Lester)
Why don't you tell our daughter about it, honey?
Jane stares at both her parents, apprehensive. Lester looks at Carolyn darkly, then flashes a "youasked-
for-it" grin.
LESTER
Janie, today I quit my job. And then I told my boss to fuck himself, and then I blackmailed him for
almost sixty thousand dollars. Pass the asparagus.
CAROLYN
Your father seems to think this kind of behavior is something to be proud of.
LESTER
And your mother seems to prefer I go through life like a fucking prisoner while she keeps my dick in
a mason jar under the sink.
CAROLYN
(ashen)
How dare you speak to me that way in front of her? And I marvel that you can be so contemptuous
of me, on the same day that you lose your job!
LESTER
Lose it? I didn't lose it. It's not like, "Oops, where'd my job go?" I quit. Someone pass me the
asparagus.
CAROLYN
Oh! Oh! And I want to thank you for putting me under the added pressure of being the sole
breadwinner now--
LESTER
I already have a job.
CAROLYN
(not stopping)
No, no, don't give a second thought as to who's going to pay the mortgage. We'll just leave it all up
to Carolyn. You mean, you're going to take care of everything now, Carolyn? Yes. I don't mind. I
really don't. You mean, everything? You don't mind having the sole responsibility, your husband
feels he can just quit his job--
LESTER
(overlapping)
Will someone pass me the fucking asparagus?
JANE
(rises)
Okay, I'm not going to be a part of this--
LESTER
(means it)
Sit down.
Jane does so, surprised and intimidated by the power in his voice. Lester gets up, crosses to the other
side of the table to get a PLATE OF ASPARAGUS, then sits again as he serves himself.
LESTER (cont'd)
I'm sick and tired of being treated like I don't exist. You two do whatever you want to do whenever
you want to do it and I don't complain. All I want is the same courtesy--
CAROLYN
(overlapping)
Oh, you don't complain? Oh, excuse me. Excuse me. I must be psychotic then, if you don't complain.
What is this?! Am I locked away in a padded cell somewhere, hallucinating? That's the only
explanation I can think of--
Lester hurls the plate of asparagus against the wall with such force it SHATTERS, frightening
Carolyn and Jane.
LESTER
(casual)
Don't interrupt me, honey.
He goes back to eating his meal, as if nothing unusual has happened. Carolyn sits in her chair,
shivering with rage. Jane just stares at the plate in front of her.
LESTER (cont'd)
Oh, and another thing. From now on, we're going to alternate our dinner music. Because frankly, and
I don't think I'm alone here, I'm really tired of this Lawrence Welk shit.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S BEDROOM - THAT NIGHT
Jane is sitting on her bed. There is a KNOCK at the door.
JANE
Go. Away.
CAROLYN (O.C.)
Honey, please let me in.
Jane rolls her eyes, crosses to the door and lets Carolyn in.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
I wish that you hadn't witnessed that awful scene tonight. But in a way, I'm glad.
JANE
Why, so I could see what freaks you and Dad really are?
CAROLYN
Me?
She stares at Jane, then starts to cry.
JANE
Aw, Christ, Mom.
CAROLYN
(tearful)
No, I'm glad because you're old enough now to learn the most important lesson in life: you cannot
count on anyone except yourself.
(sighs)
You cannot count on anyone except yourself. It's sad, but true, and the sooner you learn it, the better.
JANE
Look, Mom, I really don't feel like having a Kodak moment here, okay?
Carolyn suddenly SLAPS Jane, hard.
CAROLYN
You ungrateful little brat. Just look at everything you have. When I was your age, I lived in a duplex.
We didn't even have our own house.
Embarrassed, she quickly leaves. Jane looks in a mirror and rubs her cheek, then crosses to the
window and looks out.
EXT. FITTS HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Jane's POV: We're across from Ricky's room, looking in. He stands at the window with his
DIGICAM, videotaping us. On the WIDE-SCREEN TV behind him, we see Jane standing in her
window as she looks across at him. She waves. Ricky just keeps videotaping. A beat, then she starts
to take off her shirt.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
We're behind Ricky as he videotapes Jane in her window. She has now removed her shirt. She stands
there in her bra, then reaches behind her back to unhook the bra.
On VIDEO: We ZOOM toward her as she takes off her bra clumsily. She's obviously embarrassed,
but she's gone this far and there's no turning back. She stands there with her breasts exposed, trying
to look defiant, but she's achingly vulnerable...
Suddenly, the door is thrown open and the Colonel enters, incensed. Startled, Ricky turns around. As
soon as his eyes meet his father's, he knows what's up.
COLONEL
You little bastard--
Ricky scrambles to dodge his father, but the Colonel is too fast; he punches Ricky in the face,
knocking him to the floor.
COLONEL (cont'd)
How did you get in there?
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
From her window, Jane watches, pulling the drapes in front of her.
EXT. FITTS HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Jane's POV: In the WINDOW across from us, the Colonel proceeds to give Ricky a serious beating,
punching his face.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky's lip is bleeding, but he maintains a steady gaze at his father during this violence.
COLONEL
(unnerved)
How!? How?! C'mon, get up! Fight back, you little pussy!
RICKY
No, sir. I won't fight you.
The Colonel grabs him by the collar.
COLONEL
How did you get in there?
RICKY
I picked the lock, sir.
COLONEL
What were you looking for? Money? Are you on dope again?
RICKY
No, sir. I wanted to show my girlfriend your Nazi plate.
A beat.
COLONEL
Girlfriend?
RICKY
Yes, sir. She lives next door.
The Colonel glances toward the window.
His POV: In the WINDOW across from us, Jane peeks out from behind the drape. She quickly pulls
it shut.
RICKY (cont'd)
Her name's Jane.
A beat. The Colonel is suddenly, deeply shamed.
COLONEL
This is for your own good, boy. You have no respect for other people's things, for authority, for...
RICKY
Sir, I'm sorry.
COLONEL
You can't just go around doing whatever you feel like, you can't--there are rules in life--
RICKY
Yes, sir.
COLONEL
You need structure, you need discipline--
RICKY
(simultaneous)
Discipline. Yes, sir, thank you for trying to teach me. Don't give up on me, Dad.
The Colonel stands, still breathing heavily. Tenderness fills his face, and he reaches out to touch
Ricky's cheek.
COLONEL
Oh, Ricky...
But something keeps him from doing it.
COLONEL (cont'd)
You stay out of there.
He leaves. Ricky gets up and goes to his bureau. He looks at his reflection in the mirror, calmly takes
a cloth and starts to wipe the blood from his face.
FADE TO BLACK.
In darkness, we HEAR repetitive GUNSHOTS.
FADE IN:
INT. INDOOR FIRING RANGE - ONE MONTH LATER
Carolyn, wearing PROTECTIVE HEADGEAR, is holding a GLOCK 19 AUTOMATIC
REVOLVER with both hands, FIRING it directly at us.
She empties a round and stands there, exhilarated. An ATTENDANT approaches with a new round
of ammunition.
ATTENDANT
(loading gun)
I gotta say, Mrs. Burnham, when you first came here I thought you would be hopeless. But you're a
natural.
CAROLYN
Well, all I know is... I love shooting this gun!
And she starts FIRING again.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - LATER
Bobby Darin sings "DON'T RAIN ON MY PARADE" on the RADIO. Carolyn SINGS along as she
drives. Her face has lost its usual resolute determination; she's actually enjoying herself
spontaneously, and the lack of her usual self-consciousness allows us to see just how beautiful she is.
ANGLE ON the GLOCK 19 sitting on the passenger seat amidst some CDs.
Carolyn takes the gun and holds it at arm's length, admiring it as she continues to SING.
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - CONTINUOUS
The Mercedes turns onto Robin Hood Trail.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn's POV: We turn into the Burnham driveway. A 1970 PONTIAC FIREBIRD with racing
stripes blocks our access to the garage.
CLOSE on Carolyn: She doesn't like having things in her way.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FAMILY ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Lester's REMOTE-CONTROLLED MODEL JEEP is zooming across the floor of the family room,
expertly maneuvering corners and narrowly avoiding crashing.
Lester is sprawled on the couch in his underwear, drinking a BEER and controlling the car. His
working out is beginning to produce results. The room, too, seems changed: sloppier, more lived in.
Carolyn enters through the kitchen, flushed and angry. She just stands there, staring at Lester. After a
moment, he looks up at her.
LESTER
What?
CAROLYN
Ah, whose car is that out front?
LESTER
Mine. 1970 Pontiac Firebird. The car I always wanted and now I have it. I rule!
CAROLYN
Where's the Camry?
LESTER
I traded it in.
CAROLYN
Shouldn't you have consulted me first?
LESTER
Hmm, let me think... No. You never drove it.
(then)
Have you done something different? You look great.
CAROLYN
(brusque)
Where's Jane?
LESTER
Jane not home. We have the whole house to ourselves.
He smiles at her playfully. She stares back, annoyed. It's the same look she had at the beginning,
when he dropped his briefcase, but whatever power that look had is gone. Lester just LAUGHS.
LESTER (cont'd)
Christ, Carolyn. When did you become so... joyless?
CAROLYN
(taken aback)
Joyless?! I am not joyless! There happens to be a lot about me that you don't know, mister smarty
man. There is plenty of joy in my life.
LESTER
(leaning toward her)
Whatever happened to that girl who used to fake seizures at frat parties when she got bored? And
who used to run up to the roof of our first apartment building to flash the traffic helicopters? Have
you totally forgotten about her? Because I haven't.
His face is close to hers, and suddenly the atmosphere is charged. She pulls back automatically, but
it's clear she's drawn to him. He smiles, and moves even closer, holding his beer loosely balanced.
Then, just before their lips meet...
CAROLYN
(barely audible)
Lester. You're going to spill beer on the couch.
She's immediately sorry she said it, but it's too late. His smile fades, and the moment is gone.
LESTER
So what? It's just a couch.
CAROLYN
This is a four thousand dollar sofa upholstered in Italian silk. This is not "just a couch."
LESTER
It's just a couch!
He stands and gestures toward all the things in the room.
LESTER (cont'd)
This isn't life. This is just stuff. And it's become more important to you than living. Well, honey,
that's just nuts.
Carolyn stares at him, on the verge of tears, then turns and walks out of the room before he can see
her cry.
LESTER (cont'd)
(calls after her)
I'm only trying to help you.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
On VIDEO: Jane lays in Ricky's bed, wearing a tank top. She glances at us.
JANE
(shy)
Don't.
We're watching the WIDE-SCREEN TV in Ricky's room.
A CORD leads from the TV to Ricky's DIGICAM. Ricky holds the camera, sitting naked in a chair.
It's been almost a month since his father beat him up, and there are still slight SCARS on his face.
He's aiming his camera at Jane.
RICKY
Why?
JANE
(re: image on TV)
It's weird, watching myself. I don't like how I look.
RICKY
I can't believe you don't know how beautiful you are.
JANE
I'm not going to sit here for that shit.
She gets out of bed, takes his Digicam and focuses it on him. We see his image on the TV as she
videotapes.
JANE (cont'd)
Ha. How does it feel now?
RICKY
Fine.
JANE
You don't feel naked?
RICKY
I am naked.
JANE
You know what I mean.
Jane ZOOMS in on his face, which remains placid.
JANE (cont'd)
Tell me about being in the hospital.
Ricky smiles.
RICKY
When I was fifteen, my dad caught me smoking dope. He totally freaked and decided to send me to
military school. I told you his whole thing about structure and discipline, right?
(laughs)
Well, of course, I got kicked out. Dad and I had this huge fight, and he hit me... and then the next
day at school, some kid made a crack about my haircut, and... I just snapped. I wanted to kill him.
And I would have. Killed him. If they hadn't pulled me off.
(then)
That's when my dad put me in the hospital. Then they drugged me up and left me in there for two
years.
JANE
Wow. You must really hate him.
RICKY
He's not a bad man.
He grabs a half-smoked JOINT from an ashtray and lights it.
JANE
Well... you better believe I'd hate my father if he did something like that to me.
(laughs)
Wait. I do hate my father.
RICKY
Why?
He passes her the joint, then takes the Digicam and focuses it on her. We see her image on the TV as
he videotapes.
JANE
He's a total asshole and he's got this crush on my friend Angela and it's disgusting.
RICKY
You'd rather he had the crush on you?
JANE
Gross, no! But it'd be nice if I was anywhere near as important to him as she is.
(then)
I know you think my dad's harmless, but you're wrong. He's doing massive psychological damage to
me.
RICKY
How?
Jane looks into the camera, a loopy, stoned grin on her face.
JANE
Well, now, I too need structure. A little fucking discipline.
They LAUGH. She lays back on the bed.
JANE (cont'd)
I'm serious, though. How could he not be damaging me? I need a father who's a role model, not some
horny geek-boy who's gonna spray his shorts whenever I bring a girlfriend home from school.
(snorts)
What a lame-o. Somebody really should put him out of his misery.
Her mind wanders for a beat.
RICKY
Want me to kill him for you?
Jane looks at him and sits up.
JANE
Yeah, would you?
RICKY
(smiles)
It'll cost you.
JANE
Well, I've been baby-sitting since I was about ten. I've got almost three thousand dollars. 'Course, I
was saving it up for a boob job.
She stands and sticks out her breasts, then falls back on the bed, LAUGHING.
JANE (cont'd)
But my tits can wait, huh?
RICKY
You know, that's not a very nice thing to do, hiring somebody to kill your dad.
JANE
Well, I guess I'm just not a very nice girl, then, am I?
She smiles dreamily at him. He turns the Digicam off and the TV screen goes BLUE. He lowers the
camera and looks at her intently.
JANE (cont'd)
(suddenly nervous)
You know I'm not serious, right?
RICKY
Of course.
He puts the Digicam down and joins Jane on the bed. A long moment where neither of them speaks.
He caresses her hair, gazing into her eyes.
RICKY (cont'd)
Do you know how lucky we are to have found each other?
FADE TO BLACK.
FADE IN:
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - EARLY MORNING
We're FLYING above Robin Hood Trail. We see the BURNHAM'S HOUSE below us as we
APPROACH it steadily.
LESTER
Remember those posters that said, "Today is the first day of the rest of your life?" Well, that's true of
every day except one.
(a beat)
The day you die.
We're almost on top of the Burnham house now, as Lester, wearing sweatpants and running shoes,
bursts out of the front door and dashes up the driveway.
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - A SHORT TIME LATER
We're now at street level, as Lester runs toward us. He carries a WALKMAN and wears
EARPHONES, and we HEAR ROCK MUSIC as he runs. The endorphins have kicked in, and Lester
grins, reveling in the sheer physical pleasure of his body.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - A SHORT TIME LATER
The blender GRINDS as Lester, still in his sweatpants, makes himself a high-protein shake. He's in
excellent shape; even his posture has changed, and he moves with the confident, easy swagger of an
athlete. Jane watches him blankly from the kitchen table.
Carolyn enters. Lester leans against the counter, drinking his shake directly from the blender pitcher,
eyeing her. He's got a newfound sexual energy that makes her uncomfortable, and he knows it.
Carolyn quickly rinses off her coffee cup, avoiding his eyes, and starts out.
CAROLYN
Jane, hurry up. I've got a very important appointment--
JANE
Mom, is it okay if Angela sleeps over tonight?
Jane looks at Lester to see how he reacts. He doesn't.
CAROLYN
Well, of course, she's always welcome.
(on her way out)
You know, I thought maybe you two had a fight. I haven't seen her around here in a while.
And she's gone. Jane continues staring at her father. Finally, he glances over at her.
LESTER
What?
JANE
(nervous)
I've been too embarrassed to bring her over. Because of you, and the way that you behave.
LESTER
What are you talking about? I've barely even spoken to her.
JANE
(angry)
Dad! You stare at her all the time, like you're drunk! It's disgusting!
LESTER
(angry himself)
You better watch yourself, Janie, or you're going to turn into a real bitch, just like your mother.
Jane is stunned. She quickly rises, trying to get out of the kitchen before she starts crying.
ANGLE on Lester, and the immediate regret in his eyes.
LESTER (cont'd)
(under his breath)
Fuck.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - UPSTAIRS HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
We're outside Ricky's room, MOVING slowly toward the open door, through which we can see
Ricky, standing at his bureau mirror, combing his hair. The scars on his face are almost gone now.
A REVERSE ANGLE reveals the Colonel standing outside the door looking in, watching Ricky with
great tenderness. Then Ricky looks up at him, and the Colonel is suddenly self-conscious.
COLONEL
(brusque)
You ready to go?
RICKY
Oh, I don't need a ride. I'm going to go in with Jane and her mom.
EXT. FITTS HOUSE - FRONT PORCH - MOMENTS LATER
Ricky emerges from the house, followed by the Colonel, who watches his son as he heads toward the
Burnham house.
His POV: Carolyn waves from the Mercedes, flashing an insincere smile. Jane leans forward from
the passenger seat and glares at us. As Ricky starts to get in the car, Lester emerges from the house
in his sweatpants.
LESTER
Yo, Ricky. How's it going?
RICKY
Pretty decent, Mr. Burnham.
Ricky pulls his door shut, but not before Lester mouths "call me" and Ricky gives a slight nod in
acknowledgment.
CLOSE on the Colonel's face: he looks confused.
As the Mercedes backs out of the driveway, Lester glances over at him.
Lester's POV: The Colonel watches the car driving off, then looks at us. His face tightens.
LESTER studies him for a moment, then grins and salutes before going inside the house.
CLOSE on the Colonel, deeply troubled.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
The door swings open silently and the Colonel enters. He starts going through Ricky's bureau. He
opens the DRAWER in which we know Ricky keeps his marijuana, but he doesn't discover its false
bottom. He stands and looks around, his eyes finally landing on:
The DIGICAM and a stack of CASSETTES on a shelf. The camera is still connected to the TV.
The Colonel turns on the TV, examines the Digicam and presses "play." The TV's blank screen
suddenly gives way to...
On VIDEO: Barbara Fitts sits at the kitchen table, staring off into space.
The Colonel watches, at first baffled, then impatient. He takes the cassette out of the Digicam and
inserts another. On the TV screen we see...
On VIDEO: Through the Burnham's GARAGE WINDOW, we see Lester step out of his pants and
briefs. Then, naked except for his black socks, he grabs the dumbbells and starts lifting them,
watching his reflection in the window as he does...
The Colonel sinks slowly onto Ricky's bed, mesmerized.
INT. MR. SMILEY'S - LATER
Lester, wearing a Mr. Smiley's uniform, is happily flipping burgers on a grill.
CO-WORKER
Hey Lester, I need that Super Smiley with cheese, A.S.A.P.
LESTER
You need more than that, my little hombre.
Lester looks up suddenly when he HEARS:
CAROLYN (O.S.)
(over speakers)
What's good here?
BUDDY (O.C.)
(over speakers)
Nothing.
CAROLYN (O.C.)
(over speakers)
Then I guess we'll just have to be bad, won't we?
(then)
I think I'll have a double Smiley Sandwich and curly fries, and a vanilla shake.
BUDDY (O.C.)
(over speakers)
Make that two.
COUNTER GIRL (O.C.)
(over speakers)
Please drive around thank you.
Lester's face darkens, then... he smiles. He puts his spatula down.
EXT. MR. SMILEY'S - CONTINUOUS
The Mercedes pulls around to the DRIVE-THRU WINDOW. Carolyn drives; Buddy sits beside her.
CAROLYN
I think we deserve a little junk food, after the workout we had this morning.
BUDDY
(nuzzles her neck)
I'm flattered.
They are too involved with each other to notice Lester watching them from the drive-thru window.
LESTER
(overly cheerful)
Smile! You're at Mr. Smiley's!
Carolyn almost jumps out of her skin.
Lester leans out of the drive-thru window, grinning at her, holding bags filled with fast food. The
Counter Girl stands next to him, staring blankly.
LESTER (cont'd)
Would you like to try our new beef and cheese pot pie on a stick, just a dollar ninety-nine for a
limited time only?
Carolyn struggles to appear nonchalant.
CAROLYN
(re: Buddy)
We were just at a seminar.
(then, all business)
Buddy, this is my--
LESTER
Her husband. We've met before, but something tells me you're going to remember me this time.
COUNTER GIRL
(to Carolyn)
Whoa. You are so busted.
CAROLYN
(flustered)
You know, this really doesn't concern you.
LESTER
Actually, Janeane is senior drive-thru manager, so you kind of are on her turf.
(to Carolyn, quietly)
So. This makes sense.
CAROLYN
(miserable)
Oh, Lester--
LESTER
Honey, it's okay. I want you to be happy.
(then)
Would you like Smiley Sauce with that?
CAROLYN
Lester, just stop it!
LESTER
Uh-uh. You don't get to tell me what to do. Ever again.
Carolyn closes her eyes, defeated, then grabs the wheel, shifts gears and drives off.
EXT. TOP HAT MOTEL - A SHORT TIME LATER
The sky is filled with ominous gray clouds. Wind whips garbage across the parking lot as Carolyn's
Mercedes pulls in next to Buddy's Jaguar.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn grips the wheel tightly, staring straight ahead. Buddy looks at her unhappily.
BUDDY
I'm sorry. I guess we should cool it for a while. I'm facing a potentially very expensive divorce.
CAROLYN
Oh, no. I understand completely.
(sarcastic)
In order to be successful, one must project an image of success. At all times.
She regrets it the second it's out of her mouth, and turns to him. He just looks at her sadly, then gets
out of the car and shuts the door. She starts to CRY. As before, she SLAPS herself, hard.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
Stop it. Stop it!
She closes her eyes tight, trying to stop the tears, then suddenly SCREAMS as loud as she can.
EXT. TOP HAT MOTEL - CONTINUOUS
Buddy's Jaguar speeds off, leaving the Mercedes alone in the parking lot. We can still HEAR
Carolyn's muffled SCREAMING. There is a sound of distant THUNDER.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - THAT NIGHT
It's RAINING outside. We HEAR ROCK MUSIC as Lester pumps iron. He puts the weights down
and looks at his REFLECTION in the window:
His POV: His arms are pumped. He smiles.
He reaches under the bench and grabs a CIGAR BOX. Opening it, he digs through MARIJUANA
PARAPHERNALIA, only to pull out an empty ZIP-LOC BAG.
LESTER
Shit.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Ricky and the Colonel sit at the table, eating in silence. Barbara rinses off a pan at the sink, then
stares at it as if she can't quite remember what she meant to do with it. We suddenly HEAR a
BEEPING noise. Ricky pulls his BEEPER off his belt and checks it.
RICKY
(getting up)
I have to run next door. Jane left her geometry book in my bag and she needs it to do her homework.
He heads into the hall. The Colonel watches him go, uneasy.
INT. ANGELA'S BMW - CONTINUOUS
Angela drives, squinting through the windshield as the wipers move back and forth.
ANGELA
So you and psycho boy are fucking on like, a regular basis now, right?
JANE
(irritable)
No.
ANGELA
Oh, come on. You can tell me. Does he have a big dick?
JANE
Look, I'm not gonna talk about his dick with you, okay? It's not like that.
ANGELA
Not like what? Doesn't he have one?
(then)
Why don't you want to talk about it? I mean, I tell you every single detail about every guy that I
fuck.
JANE
Yeah, and maybe you shouldn't, all right? Maybe I don't really want to hear all that.
ANGELA
Oh, so now that you have a boyfriend, you're like, above it?
(rolls her eyes)
We gotta get you a real man.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
The Colonel rinses off his plate at the sink. Something outside catches his eye, and he cranes his
neck to get a better look at...
His POV: Through the window over the sink, we can see into the Burnham's GARAGE WINDOW.
Our view is blurred by the RAIN, but we see Lester, his upper body pumped and glistening in sweat
as he counts out a wad of BILLS... and then Ricky walks into view.
The Colonel's face tightens.
His POV: Lester drapes his arm around Ricky as he gives him the money. We can only see Lester
from the waist up, so he looks naked.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Ricky, his hair wet from the rain, puts the cash in his pocket. Lester's arm remains draped around his
shoulder.
RICKY
(grins)
You got any papers?
LESTER
Yeah, in the cigar box, right over there.
(laughs)
You know, put up a fight, dude! You are such a pushover. "No I can't. Really. Okay."
And he slaps Ricky playfully on the chest. Ricky grins, then squats down and reaches under the
weight bench.
RICKY
You should learn to roll a joint.
Lester sits in the bowl chair and leans back, his hands behind his head, watching Ricky roll the joint.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
The Colonel's POV: Lester leans back in his chair. We see only Ricky's back and shoulders as he
rolls the joint. After a beat, Lester's jaw drops, then he throws his head back. From our perspective, it
looks very much like Ricky is giving Lester a blow job.
The Colonel watches, incredulous. Then we HEAR a CAR APPROACHING, and the Colonel
glances over at:
His POV: Angela's BMW pulls into the driveway, stopping behind Lester's Firebird. As Angela and
Jane get out and run toward the house, our focus MOVES back to the GARAGE WINDOW. Ricky
stands, looking a little panicked. Lester pulls on his T-shirt, and both he and Ricky cross out of view.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Lester leans nonchalantly against the counter. Jane and Angela enter. Jane frowns when she sees
him.
LESTER
Oh. Hi.
JANE
Where's Mom?
LESTER
Don't know.
ANGELA
Hi, Mr. Burnham.
LESTER
Hi.
He's trying to remain cool, and doing a pretty good job.
ANGELA
Wow. Look at you. Have you been working out?
LESTER
Some.
Jane rolls her eyes and exits. Angela walks over to Lester.
ANGELA
You can really tell. Look at those arms.
She places her hand on his arm flirtatiously, looks up at him and smiles, fully expecting to intimidate
him by doing so.
But something has changed, and he isn't intimidated at all. He looks directly back at her, leans in and
smiles slowly.
LESTER
You like muscles?
His voice is low and intense. She moves away, suddenly insecure.
ANGELA
I--I should probably go see what Jane's up to.
And she heads out quickly. Lester watches her go, baffled.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky enters, wet from the pouring rain, and crosses to his bureau, pulling the wad of CASH out of
his pocket as he goes.
COLONEL (O.C.)
Where'd you get that?
Ricky turns, startled.
His POV: The Colonel steps out of the shadows.
Ricky takes a step back.
RICKY
From my job.
COLONEL
Don't lie to me.
(beat)
I saw you with him.
RICKY
(incredulous)
You were watching me?
COLONEL
What did he make you do?
RICKY
(laughs)
Dad, you don't really think... me and Mr. Burnham?
COLONEL
(furious)
Don't you laugh at me!
(then)
I will not sit back and watch my only son become a cocksucker!
RICKY
Jesus, what is with you--
The Colonel BACKHANDS Ricky so hard it sends the boy sprawling.
COLONEL
I swear to God, I will throw you out of this house and never look at you again.
RICKY
(taken aback)
You mean that?
COLONEL
Damn straight I do. I'd rather you were dead than be a fucking faggot.
A beat. Ricky suddenly smiles. He gets up.
RICKY
You're right. I suck dick for money.
COLONEL
Boy--
RICKY
Two thousand dollars. I'm that good.
COLONEL
Get out.
RICKY
And you should see me fuck. I'm the best piece of ass in three states.
COLONEL
(explodes)
Get out!! I don't ever want to see you again!!
Ricky eyes the Colonel. He's finally discovered a way to break free from his father, and he can't
believe it was this simple.
RICKY
What a sad old man you are.
COLONEL
(a whisper)
Get out.
Ricky grabs his backpack, turns and walks out the door, leaving the Colonel standing there, glassyeyed
and breathing heavily.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Ricky enters to discover Barbara standing in the middle of the room, clutching a dish, frightened.
She's obviously heard his argument with his father, and she looks into his eyes, searching, aware that
something eventful is taking place.
RICKY
Mom, I'm leaving.
A beat.
BARBARA
Okay, wear a raincoat.
RICKY
(hugs her)
I wish things would have been better for you. Take care of Dad.
He kisses her cheek softly, then exits out the back door, leaving her standing alone, still clutching her
dish.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
The Colonel's POV: Below us, Ricky dashes through the rain to the Burnham's front door and
knocks. Lester opens it and lets him in.
EXT. FITTS HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
The Colonel looks coldly down at us from Ricky's bedroom window, and then he pulls the drapes
shut.
EXT. FREEWAY - CONTINUOUS
The MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 is parked in the breakdown lane, its HAZARD LIGHTS
BLINKING. Cars ZOOM past in the rain.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn sits behind the wheel, listening to a MOTIVATIONAL TAPE on the STEREO.
TAPE VOICE
--disinvesting problems of their power, and removing their ability to make us afraid. This is the
secret to "me-centered" living. Only by taking full responsibility for your problems--and their
solutions--will you ever be able to break free from the constant cycle of victimhood.
Carolyn leans over and open the glove compartment. She takes out her GLOCK 19.
TAPE VOICE (cont'd)
Remember, you are only a victim if you choose to be a victim...
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Angela is sprawled across the bed. Jane stands across the room from her.
JANE
I don't think we could be friends anymore.
ANGELA
You are way too uptight about sex.
JANE
Just don't fuck my dad, all right? Please?
ANGELA
Why not?
There is a KNOCK on the door. Jane sits up, alarmed.
JANE
(angry)
Dad! Leave us alone!
RICKY (O.C.)
It's me.
Jane jumps up and opens the door and lets him in.
RICKY (cont'd)
(to Jane)
If I had to leave tonight, would you come with me?
JANE
What?
RICKY
If I had to go to New York. To live. Tonight. Would you come with me?
JANE
Yes.
ANGELA
You guys can't be serious.
(to Jane)
You're just a kid. And he's like, a mental case. You'll end up living in a box on the street.
JANE
I'm no more a kid than you are!
( to Ricky)
We can use my plastic surgery money.
RICKY
We won't have to. I have over forty thousand dollars. And I know people in the city who can help us
get set up.
ANGELA
What, other drug dealers?
RICKY
Yes.
ANGELA
Jane, you'd be out of your mind to go with him.
JANE
Why do you even care?
ANGELA
Because you're my friend!
RICKY
She's not your friend. She's somebody you use to feel better about yourself.
ANGELA
Go fuck yourself, psycho!
JANE
You shut up, bitch!
ANGELA
Jane! He is a freak!
JANE
Well, then so am I! And we'll always be freaks and we'll never be like other people. And you'll never
be a freak because you're just too perfect.
ANGELA
Oh, yeah? Well, at least I'm not ugly.
RICKY
Yes, you are. And you're boring. And you're totally ordinary. And you know it.
Angela stares at him, stunned, then starts toward the door.
ANGELA
You two deserve each other.
And she exits, SLAMMING the door behind her. Jane turns to Ricky and he takes her in his arms.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - UPSTAIRS HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Angela sits on the stairs, shaken, crying.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
We're MOVING SLOWLY toward the Burnham's GARAGE WINDOW through the RAIN.
Through the window, we see Lester, wearing only his sweatpants, performing bench presses.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Through the window, we see the Colonel standing outside, watching. We ZOOM slowly in on him
as he watches, transfixed.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
His POV: Lester finishes his last rep, then racks the weights and sits up, sweaty and out of breath. He
runs his free hand over his chest... and then he glances at us, suddenly aware he's being watched.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Lester and the Colonel stare at each other through the window.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - MOMENTS LATER
The RAIN is coming down in sheets now, and there is a sharp CLAP of THUNDER. We're directly
outside the GARAGE DOOR as it slowly lifts to reveal Lester smiling at us.
LESTER
Jesus, man. You're soaked.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Lester pulls the Colonel inside. The Colonel moves stiffly and seems preoccupied, slightly
disoriented.
LESTER
You want me to get Ricky? He's in Jane's room.
The Colonel just stands there, looking at Lester.
LESTER (cont'd)
You okay?
COLONEL
(his voice thick)
Where's your wife?
LESTER
Uh... I don't know. Probably out fucking that dorky prince of real estate asshole. And you know
what? I don't care.
The Colonel moves closer towards him.
COLONEL
Your wife is with another man and you don't care?
LESTER
Nope, our marriage is just for show. A commercial, for how normal we are. When we are anything
but.
He grins... and so does the Colonel.
LESTER (cont'd)
You're shaking.
He places his hand on the Colonel's shoulder. The Colonel closes his eyes.
LESTER (cont'd)
We really should get you out of these clothes.
COLONEL
(a whisper)
Yes...
He opens his eyes and looks at Lester, his face filled with an anguished vulnerability we wouldn't
have thought possible from him. His eyes are brimming with tears. Lester leans in, concerned.
LESTER
It's okay.
COLONEL
(hoarse)
I...
LESTER
(softly)
Just tell me what you need.
The Colonel reaches up and places his hand on Lester's cheek... and then kisses him. Lester is
momentarily stunned, and then he pushes the Colonel away. The Colonel's face crumples in shame.
LESTER (cont'd)
Whoa, whoa, whoa. I'm sorry. You got the wrong idea.
The Colonel stares at the floor, blinking, and then he turns and runs out the open garage door into the
rainy night.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn is still listening to the same MOTIVATIONAL TAPE. She holds the GLOCK in her hand.
TAPE VOICE
"I refuse to be a victim." When this becomes your mantra, constantly running through your head--
Carolyn switches the TAPE OFF and puts the gun in her purse.
CAROLYN
I refuse to be a victim.
EXT. FREEWAY - CONTINUOUS
The Mercedes pulls away from the shoulder.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
Lester enters, opens the refrigerator and grabs a BEER. Suddenly we HEAR MUSIC coming from
the other room. Lester opens his beer and starts toward the family room.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FAMILY ROOM - CONTINUOUS
His POV: AS we MOVE SLOWLY around a corner, Angela comes into view, standing at the
STEREO, holding a CD case. She's been crying; her face is puffy, and her hair mussed. She regards
us apprehensively... then puts on a slightly defiant smile.
ANGELA
I hope you don't mind if I play the stereo.
Lester leans against the wall and takes a swig of his beer.
LESTER
Not at all.
(then)
Bad night?
ANGELA
Not really bad, just... strange.
LESTER
(grins)
Believe me. It couldn't possibly be any stranger than mine.
She smiles. They stand there in silence; the atmosphere is charged.
ANGELA
Jane and I had a fight.
(after a beat)
It was about you.
She's trying to be seductive as she says this, but she's pretty bad at it. Lester raises his eyebrows.
ANGELA (cont'd)
She's mad at me because I said I think you're sexy.
Lester grins. He is sexy.
LESTER
(offering beer)
Do you want a sip?
She nods. Lester holds the bottle up to her mouth and she drinks clumsily. He gently wipes her chin
with the back of his hand.
LESTER (cont'd)
So... are you going to tell me? What you want?
ANGELA
I don't know.
LESTER
You don't know?
His face is very close to hers. She's unnerved--this is happening too fast...
ANGELA
What do you want?
LESTER
Are you kidding? I want you. I've wanted you since the first moment I saw you. You are the most
beautiful thing I have ever seen.
Angela takes a deep breath just before Lester leans in to kiss her cheek, her forehead, her eyelids, her
neck...
ANGELA
You don't think I'm ordinary?
LESTER
You couldn't be ordinary if you tried.
ANGELA
Thank you.
(far away)
I don't think there's anything worse than being ordinary...
And Lester kisses her on the lips.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn drives, her face resolute.
CAROLYN
I refuse to be a victim. I refuse to be a victim. I refuse to be a victim...
(angry)
Lester, I have something I have to say to you...
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FAMILY ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Angela lays back on the couch as Lester moves in over her. He pulls her jeans off and gently brushes
his fingers over her legs, then moves up and caresses her face...
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky and Jane, fully clothed, lie curled up on Jane's bed.
JANE
Are you scared?
RICKY
I don't get scared.
JANE
My parents will try to find me.
RICKY
Mine won't.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FAMILY ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Lester starts unbuttoning Angela's blouse. She seems disconnected from what's happening. Lester
pulls her blouse open, exposing her breasts.
Lester looks down at her, grinning, unable to believe he's actually about to do what he's dreamed of
so many times, and then...
ANGELA
This is my first time.
Lester LAUGHS.
LESTER
You're kidding.
ANGELA
(a whisper)
I'm sorry.
A beat. Lester looks down at her, his grin fading.
His POV: Angela lies beneath us, embarrassed and vulnerable. This is not the mythically carnal
creature of Lester's fantasies; this is a nervous child.
ANGELA (cont'd)
I still want to do it... I just thought I should tell you... in case you wondered why I wasn't... better.
Lester's face falls. There's no way he's going to go through with this now.
ANGELA (cont'd)
(confused)
What's wrong? I thought you said I was beautiful.
LESTER
(tenderly)
You are beautiful.
He grabs a blanket from the back of the couch and drapes it around her shoulders, covering her
nakedness.
LESTER (cont'd)
You are so beautiful... and I would be a very lucky man...
He smiles and shakes his head. Humiliated, Angela starts to cry.
ANGELA
I feel so stupid.
LESTER
Don't.
He hugs her, letting her put her head on his shoulder, stroking her hair and rocking her gently.
ANGELA
I'm sorry.
Lester takes her by the shoulders and looks at her, serious.
LESTER
You have nothing to be sorry about.
But she keeps crying. Lester hugs her again. We HEAR a loud CLAP of THUNDER outside.
LESTER (cont'd)
(smiles)
It's okay. Everything's okay.
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - MOMENTS LATER
The Mercedes pulls onto Robin Hood Trail.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
CLOSE on Carolyn's eyes, reflected in the REAR-VIEW MIRROR. She turns her head to look out
the window:
Her POV: The RED DOOR of the Burnham house stands out, even in the pouring rain.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Angela, once again fully clothed, sits at the kitchen counter. She's eating a turkey sandwich.
ANGELA
Wow. I was starving.
Lester puts a jar of mayonnaise back in the refrigerator.
LESTER
Do you want me to make you another one?
ANGELA
No, no, no. I'm fine.
He turns to her and cocks an eyebrow.
LESTER
(concerned)
You sure?
ANGELA
I mean, I'm still a little weirded out, but...
(sincerely)
...I feel better. Thanks.
A long beat, as Lester studies her, then:
LESTER
How's Jane?
ANGELA
What do you mean?
LESTER
I mean, how's her life? Is she happy? Is she miserable? I'd really like to know, and she'd die before
she'd ever tell me about it.
Angela shifts uncomfortably.
ANGELA
She's... she's really happy. She thinks she's in love.
Angela rolls her eyes at how silly this notion is.
LESTER
(quietly)
Good for her.
An awkward beat.
ANGELA
How are you?
LESTER
(smiles, taken aback)
God, it's been a long time since anybody asked me that.
(thinks about it)
I'm great.
They just sit there, smiling at each other, then:
ANGELA
(suddenly)
I've gotta go to the bathroom.
She crosses off. Lester watches her go, then stands there wondering why he should suddenly feel so
content.
LESTER
(laughs)
I'm great.
Something at the edge of the counter catches his eye, and he reaches for...
CLOSE on a framed PHOTOGRAPH as he picks it up: It's the photo we saw earlier of him, Carolyn
and Jane, taken several years ago at an amusement park. It's startling how happy they look.
Lester crosses to the kitchen table, where he sits and studies the photo. He suddenly seems older,
more mature... and then he smiles: the deep, satisfied smile of a man who just now understands the
punch line of a joke he heard long ago...
LESTER (cont'd)
Man oh man...
(softly)
Man oh man oh man...
After a beat, the barrel of a GUN rises up behind his head, aimed at the base of his skull.
ANGLE ON an arrangement of fresh-cut ROSES in a vase on the opposite counter, deep crimson
against the WHITE TILE WALL. Then a GUNSHOT suddenly rings out, ECHOING unnaturally.
Instantly, the tile is sprayed with BLOOD, the same deep crimson as the roses.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FOYER - MOMENTS LATER
Ricky comes down the stairs, followed by Jane.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Ricky opens the door from the dining room, then stops. Jane appears behind him.
JANE
Oh God.
Their POV: A pool of blood is forming on the kitchen table.
Ricky comes into the kitchen and slowly approaches Lester's lifeless body, wide-eyed but not afraid.
Jane follows him, in shock. Ricky kneels, gazing at Lester's unseen face... then he smiles, ever so
slightly.
His POV: Lester looks back at us; his eyes are lifeless, but he's smiling the same slight smile.
RICKY
(an awed whisper)
Wow.
LESTER (V.O.)
I had always heard your entire life flashes in front of your eyes the second before you die.
EXT. SKY - DAY
We're FLYING across a white blanket of clouds.
LESTER (V.O.)
First of all, that one second isn't a second at all, it stretches on forever, like an ocean of time...
EXT. WOODS - NIGHT
In BLACK & WHITE: Eleven-year-old Lester looks up, pointing excitedly at:
His POV: A DOT OF LIGHT falls across an unbelievably starry sky.
LESTER (V.O.)
For me, it was lying on my back at Boy Scout camp, watching falling stars...
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Ricky and Jane lie curled up on Jane's bed, fully clothed. We HEAR a GUNSHOT from downstairs.
They look at each other, alarmed.
EXT. SUBURBAN STREET - DUSK
In BLACK & WHITE: Maple trees in autumn. Ghostly LEAVES FLUTTER slowly toward
pavement.
LESTER (V.O.)
And yellow leaves, from the maple trees, that lined my street...
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - POWDER ROOM - NIGHT
Angela stands in front of the mirror, fixing her make-up. We HEAR the GUNSHOT again. Angela
turns, frightened.
INT. SUBURBAN HOUSE - DAY
In BLACK & WHITE: CLOSE on an ancient woman's papery HANDS as they button a cardigan
sweater.
LESTER (V.O.)
Or my grandmother's hands, and the way her skin seemed like paper...
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - NIGHT
Carolyn walks slowly toward the RED DOOR, drenched to the bone, clutching her PURSE tightly.
We HEAR the GUNSHOT again.
EXT. SUBURB - DAY
In BLACK & WHITE: A 1970 PONTIAC FIREBIRD in the driveway of a suburban home. The
SUN'S REFLECTION in the windshield FLASHES BRILLIANTLY.
LESTER (V.O.)
And the first time I saw my cousin Tony's brand new Firebird...
INT. FITTS HOUSE - THE COLONEL'S STUDY - NIGHT
The Colonel enters, wet. He's wearing LATEX GLOVES. BLOOD covers the front of his T-shirt.
He paces in front of one of his GUN CASES; the GLASS DOOR is open, and a gun is conspicuously
missing from inside.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - HALL - NIGHT
In BLACK & WHITE: Jane opens her bedroom door, staring at us.
LESTER (V.O.)
And Janie...
EXT. SUBURBAN HOUSE - DUSK
In BLACK & WHITE: A door opens to reveal 4-YEAR-OLD JANE, dressed for Halloween in a
Princess costume, holding a lit SPARKLER aloft and smiling shyly at us.
LESTER (V.O.)
And Janie...
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - NIGHT
Carolyn enters, terrified, still clutching her PURSE. She shuts the door and locks it, then takes the
GLOCK 19 out of her purse. She opens the closet door and shoves the gun into a HAMPER. Then,
suddenly aware of Lester's scent, she grabs as many of his clothes as she can and pulls them to her,
burying her face in them. She sinks to her knees, pulling several items of clothing down with her,
and she begins to cry.
EXT. AMUSEMENT PARK - NIGHT
IN BLACK & WHITE:
A younger Carolyn sits across from us in one of those SPINNING-TEACUP RIDES, LAUGHING
uncontrollably as she twists the wheel in front of her, making us SPIN even faster.
LESTER (V.O.)
(with love)
And... Carolyn.
EXT. PARKING LOT - DAY
On VIDEO: We're watching the video Ricky showed Jane earlier, of the empty white PLASTIC
BAG being blown about. The wind carries it in a circle around us, sometimes whipping it about
violently, or, without warning, sending it soaring skyward, then letting it float gracefully down to the
ground...
LESTER (V.O.)
I guess I could be pretty pissed off about what happened to me... but it's hard to stay mad, when
there's so much beauty in the world. Sometimes I feel like I'm seeing it all at once, and it's too much,
my heart fills up like a balloon that's about to burst...
EXT. - ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - DAY
We're FLYING once again over Robin Hood Trail, ASCENDING SLOWLY.
LESTER (V.O.)
...and then I remember to relax, and stop trying to hold on to it, and then it flows through me like rain
and I can't feel anything but gratitude for every single moment of my stupid little life...
(amused)
You have no idea what I'm talking about, I'm sure. But don't worry...
FADE TO BLACK.
LESTER (V.O.) (cont'd)
You will someday.
(Drama/Comedy) ( 1998)
© 2000 by Raymond Weschler
This learning sheet is produced by Raymond Weschler from eslnotes.com. The Chinese part and extra exercise was written by Ai-ping Liu from the Language Center, National Central University, Taiwan. If you copy from this learning sheet, please acknowledge the source. Thanks.
Major Characters
Lester (‘Les’) Burnham…………………….Kevin Spacey
An unhappy and frustrated advertising executive whose wife no longer cares about him, and whose daughter almost hates him.
Carolyn Burnham……………………………Annette Benning
Lester’s unhappy wife, who is a struggling real estate agent.
Jane (‘Janie’) Burnham…………………..Thora Birch
Lester and Carol’s 16 year old daughter who is a typically frustrated
and insecure teenager, who strongly dislikes both of her parents.
Angela Hays……………………………………Mena Suvari
Jane’s very pretty friend who wants to be a fashion model, who
is interested in Lester even though that makes Jane very angry.
Ricky Fitts………………………………………Wes Bentley
A gentle but somewhat strange teenager who moves
in next door to the Burnhams, who likes Jane very much.
Colonel Frank Fitts………………………..Chris Cooper
Ricky’s extremely conservative father, a member of the United
States marines, who strongly dislikes drugs and homosexuals.
Barbara Fitts…………………………………..Allison Jannery
Ricky’s quiet and gentle mother, and Frank’s wife.
Buddy Kane………………………………….Peter Gallagher
The top real estate agent in the neighborhood where the
Burnhams live, who decides to have an affair with Carolyn.
Jim Olmeyer………………………………….Scott Bakula
A gay neighbor of the Burnhams who is an attorney.
Jim Berkeley…………………………………..Sam Robards
Jim Olmeyer’s partner, who is an anesthesiologist.
Brad Dupree…………………………………..Barry Del Sherman
An executive at the office where Lester works who
decides to fire him because of his bad attitude.
Plot Summary
This film is the story of the Burnhams, a typical American family that lives in an upper middle class suburb in the state of Connecticut, perhaps an hour or two outside of New York City. Lester Burnham has a pretty wife and daughter, a nice house, and a fairly good paying career, but he is still extremely unhappy. He hates his job, he knows that both his wife and daughter have no respect for him, and he feels he is growing old way too fast.
Carolyn Burnham is also unhappy, in part because she has a very hard time selling houses, and in part because her marriage is horrible and her daughter seems to hate her. Finally, Jane Burnham has her own unhappiness, both because she hates her parents, and more disturbingly, because her best friend and her father seem like they want to sleep with each other. In short, the Burnhams are the classic dysfunctional family.
The Burnhams soon face great challenges when Lester decides to quit his job, Carolyn decides to have an affair with her greatest competition in the real estate business, and Jane falls in love with Ricky, the gentle yet somewhat strange young man who moves in next door. But the greatest crisis comes when Lester decides to recapture his youth by buying cars and drugs from his teen years, and by becoming obsessed with Angela, Jane’s beautiful 16 year old friend. As Lester’s life spins out of control, Jane, Carolyn and even Ricky’s dad find their own reasons why it would be better if Lester were dead….
Some Words and Expressions that You May not Know
Lester introduces us to his family, almost loses
his job, and tries to improve his relationship with Jane.
I need a father who is a role model.
A “role model” is a person who others look up to as an
example of excellent behavior or great accomplishment.
通常指值得效法之人物,典範
Not some horny geek boy who is going to spray his shorts
whenever I bring a girlfriend home from school.
If a person is “horny,” they want to have sex. A “geek” is a socially awkward person, often more at ease with computers than people.
Here, if a man “sprays his shorts,” it’s implied he is getting sexually excited (To spray is to scatter small drops of water, like a garden hose).
指Jane的父親,向怪人一樣,成天只想著與Jane的同班女友Angela發生性關係
“shorts”原意指短褲,此處指容易”性”奮
What a lame-o.
“Lame” is a slang word meaning stupid, bad or ridiculous (as well as injured or disabled). Children will sometimes add the suffix ‘o’ to an adjective like this to turn it into a noun (but this is rare for adults).
“Lame”原指愚笨或荒謬,小孩們常在字尾加上”o”的諧音,指蠢蛋一個
Someone should put him out of his misery.
“To put a person out of their misery” is to kill them, perhaps because they are suffering so much that it’s considered a humane thing to do.
結束某人的苦難,意指殺了某人
Look at me; Jerking off in the shower.
“To jerk off” is the most common slang way of saying to masturbate.
masturbate指自慰
This will be the high point of my day; It’s all down hill from here.
“The high point” of a day or event is the most exciting or best part. If something goes “all down hill from here,” it becomes worse, though note that in the right context, it could mean that it becomes easier!
指一天中最好或最興奮的時刻或處境,從此就走下坡,越來越糟。但也有可能因上下文之不同而指”越來越容易”
The handle on those pruning sheers matches her gardening clogs.
“Pruning shears” are metal tools to cut (or prune) plants and bushes.
“Clogs” are a type of shoe, usually made of wood on the bottom.
前者是修剪花木之工具；而後者是木頭作底之工作鞋。此處Lester無奈且諷刺其妻子連修剪花木之行頭也得搭配好，已顯示其身分地位。
How do you get them to flourish like this? Eggshells and miracle-grow.
If a flower “flourishes,” it grows with strength and beauty.
“Miracle grow” is a well-known product to help plants grow.
花草長的茂盛,而miracle-grow是一種幫助植物生長之肥料之產品名
Angry, insecure, confused. I wish I could tell her
that’s all going to pass, but I don’t want to lie to her.
A person who is “insecure” has little confidence in themselves, and is often nervous around other people. In this case, if a situation “passes,” it goes away or dies out.
覺得沒有自信,沒有”安全感”
Nice going dad!
This is what you say to a person in a joking manner when
they have just dome something very stupid or ridiculous.
反諷某人做了愚蠢荒謬可笑之事
Both my wife and daughter think I’m this gigantic loser.
“Gigantic” is extremely big or huge. In this case, a “loser” is a person
whose life in general is not happy, or who has little good about them.
Lester指出家人都認為他很沒用,一無事處
I didn’t always feel this….sedated.
A person who is “sedated” is sleepy or not
very alert, often because of the effects of a drug.
Lester已對生活備感無趣。因藥物影響或副作用也會有昏昏欲睡的感覺
We’re all under a deadline here.
To be “under a deadline” is to be in a situation where
you have to finish something before a certain time.
指大家都得在期限內完成任務事情,指大家都面臨生活或工作上之壓力
Product launch.
A business expression for the production, distribution and marketing (advertising) for any new product, from software to food.
專指產品的生產,傳銷,市場宣傳之術語,”launch”原指發射
I need to cut corners around here.
If a company has to “cut corners,” it has to reduce the money it spends.
指公司得節省某處的開銷
Times are tight and you got to free up some cash.
In this context, if “times are tight,” there’s little money left. “To free up” cash is to find savings in one area in order to spend it in another.
指所剩不多,手頭很緊
Like the time Mr. Flourney used the
company MasterCard to pay for that hooker.
MasterCard is a very well known brand of credit card.
“Hooker” is a slang word for a prostitute.
用公司的信用卡付錢給妓女
That’s unsubstantiated gossip.
If a piece of news is “unsubstantiated,” it has not been confirmed or verified. “Gossip” is unofficial talk or writing, often about people’s personal lives, and often untrue.
小道八卦,指未經證實之八卦消息,常與個人隱私有關
That’s because Greg has to pay women to fuck him.
“To fuck” a person is a very crude way of saying to have sex with
them (obviously!), but be aware that this word can be used in many grammatically different ways (See ESLnotes for “Dog Day Afternoon”).
A job description mapping out in detail how they contribute.
To “map out” something is to clearly express in writing all
of its important details and how they relate to each other.
指很小心地將細節弄清楚,並仔細地記下來
Management can asses who’s valuable and who is expendable.
“To asses” a situation is to analyze or judge it carefully.
If a person is “expendable,” they are not really needed.
指業界可以評斷員工的價值,expendable指人不被需要,沒有價值
I’m one of the good guys, Les. I’m trying to level with you.
“To level with” a person is to speak with them very honestly, including, if necessary, by telling them unpleasant or bad news.
指真誠對待某人,就算是壞消息,也會真實告訴對方
You don’t think it’s weird and kind of fascist?
“Weird” is an important word that means strange or bizarre (It is widely used in this movie). “Fascist” usually refers to a dictatorial
political system, but note many people use it more generally to refer to any system they think is unfair, such as how people are fired at a job.
weird等同strange或bizarre,皆指某人或事物很怪異。”Fascist”指獨裁統治如法斯司黨,而我們常用此字表示”不公平”,如工作上待遇之不公或被炒魷魚
Let’s just all sell our souls and work for Satan,
because it’s more convenient that way!
A person’s “soul” is the non-physical part of them that lives on after they die, and “Satan” is another name for the devil. If something is “convenient,” it is accessible, easy to reach, or suited to one’s needs.
指把自己的靈魂給賣了而為撒旦工作,乾脆這樣做比較方便。反諷的話
That house would never had sat on the market for six months.
If a house “sits on the market,” it continues to be for sale,
but nobody is willing to pay the price that is being asked.
指房子六個月賣了六個月仍賣不出去
Their Sycamore?! Come on!
A “sycamore” is a type of tree. “Come on “ is the most versatile phrasal verb in English. Here, it means “Stop saying nonsense and be serious.”
A substantial portion of the root structure was on our property!
A “substantial portion” of something is a big part of it. The “root structure” of a tree refers to the part of the tree that grows out under the ground, in search of water and food.
最實質的那一部份其實是我們的房屋底下。影片中指鄰居庭院種的那棵樹其實大多根的部分是在Lester 家下面。此處暗指Carolyn的瑣碎無趣斤斤計較的一面。
I wouldn’t have had the heart to cut down
something if it wasn’t partially mine.
If a person doesn’t “have the heart “ to do something, they don’t have the desire to do it, or they think it would be too cruel to do it.
指不想做某事,或者如果做了的話實在太殘忍了,此處還是在那顆樹的問題上打轉。
Do we always have to listen to this elevator music?
A very negative expression for the type of music that is
played softly in elevators, stores and other public places.
很負面的說法,指責其母親是否一定得忍受那討厭的東西,如電梯內,商店內所撥放之輕音樂
A nutritious but savory meal.
Another word for delicious, or filled with flavor.
不但營養,且美味可口的一餐
No dad, it was spectacular.
A strong adjective meaning excellent, wonderful or amazing.
指棒極了,太好了
They hired this efficiency expert named Brad.
An “efficiency expert” is a person who is hired by a company to
help it be more efficient or productive, so that it can save money.
指公司僱用了一位”效率專家”,顧名思義,其能使員工工作效率提昇或更有生產力為公司省下一筆錢
I mean, hello, you’ve barely even spoken to me for months!
Note that in the right context and when said with a sarcastic or cynical tone of voice, this is a common way to imply that a person is being ridiculous, stupid, or insensitive.
如果用極諷刺或憤世嫉俗之口氣說”Hello”的話,指某人情緒已達荒謬,愚蠢或一點兒也沒反應之地步,影片中Jane對父親提醒其親子關係已十分糟糕。
What happened? We used to be pals.
A nice little word for friends.
以前我們相處不錯的,像朋友似的。此處指Lester和女兒的親子關係日漸惡化
Lester meets Angela, and soon he finds himself obsessed by her.
Wait till you see the native stone fireplace!
“Wait till you see…” is a way of saying “I think you’ll be excited by…”
Carolyn 仲介賣房子。指其壁爐之價值。
A simple cream could lighten things up.
“To lighten up” a house is to make it brighter and friendlier
(In this case, cream is the color of a paint that Carolyn suggests).
指用”奶油白色”的漆可以使房子亮了起來,看起來舒服的多
Skylight.
A glass window in a ceiling to allow light in.
指天井之窗。使光線由天花板透進
Just filled with positive energy, huh?
People (and places) can have either positive energy (which is good and makes people happy) or negative energy (which is bad and makes people angry or upset).
指人或建築物充滿好的”氣”
The ad said that this pool was lagoon-like.
A “lagoon” is a small lake, usually separated from the ocean by sand,
and often found on tropical pacific islands. If the pool is “lagoon-like,”
it looks like a lagoon.
lagoon原指沙堆積而形成之瀉湖,常在熱帶太平洋島上可見。但此處指Carolyn房屋不實廣告中誇大的說法,指游泳池像瀉湖般美麗
I think ‘lagoon,’ I think waterfall, tropical. This is a cement hole.
“Tropical” refers to those places on earth that are hot and muggy,
such as islands in the Caribbean sea. “Cement” is the hard rock material that pools and sidewalks are made of.
其實只是水泥築成的一般游泳池罷了
They’re trying to take an active interest in me.
To “take an active interest” in a person is to become
very concerned by how they are doing in life.
指很留意注意某人的生活及工作；此處Jane表示不喜歡其父母開始多關心起他。
Gross! I hate it when my mom does that.
A popular slang word for disgusting, repulsive, or very unpleasant.
指”噁心,討厭”,此處影片中Angela也提及不喜歡父母親多關心多干涉她的事情。
They’re such assholes.
A very crude but common insult, similar to jerk, creep or shithead.
罵人的粗話,其他字如jerk, creep, shithead也是差不多意思
I’m missing the James Bond marathon on TNT.
A “marathon” is the showing of many movies or TV shows on the same day that feature the same person (In this case, the character James Bond). TNT is a cable television channel.
指電視台一天內一再播放同一男主角的戲,如”馬拉松”一般疲勞轟炸
She’s just willful. :: She hates you, too.
An interesting but rarely used word meaning determined or stubborn.
不太常用的字,指某人”心意堅定”或”固執”
Rockwell High’s Dancing Spartenettes.
Note that high school’s are often called just by their name and the word ‘high.’ This is a reference to the school’s cheerleaders, who are the students who cheer on athletes at various school games.
指高中之啦啦隊為運動選手比賽加油, spartenettes 指那些啦啦隊成員訓練有術,如斯巴達式的英勇矯捷。
You were also very good tonight. Very precise.
A good word for accurate, exact or correct.
Lester 誇講Angela啦啦隊舞跳的很好。
You didn’t screw up once.
“To screw up” something is to do it very badly. Very common.
指把事情搞砸了
Do you need a ride?
The noun you need for the act of being transported by car.
搭個便車,送某人一程
Could he be any more ….pathetic?
An excellent word meaning completely hopeless or ridiculously bad.
指某人可憐到極點或可惡至極,影片中Jane指自己的父親很糟糕
It’s the weirdest thing….I feel like I’ve been in a coma for about 20 years.
A “coma” is the state of being unconscious for a long period of
time, usually caused by disease or a sharp blow to the head.
Lester看見Angela之後渾然忘我之感覺。
I’m used to guys drooling over me.
“To drool” is to let saliva run slowly from your mouth (like a baby),
so if one person “drools over” another, the one who is drooling is perhaps sexually attracted to the other.
若對女人直流口水,指很受對方吸引。Angela指已習慣男人看了他口水直流
I knew what they were thinking…just like I knew guys
at school thought about me when they jerked off.
“To jerk off” is to masturbate.
指學校男同學將Angela當作性幻想對象而自慰
Vomit. :: No, I like it.
This is literally food or other matter that has been thrown up, but as here, it’s also a slangy way of simply expressing disgust or revulsion.
指噁心,嘔吐,其實是指”討厭”的意思
If people I don’t even know look at me and want to fuck
me, it means I really have a shot at being a model.
“To have a shot” at doing something is to
have a real chance or possibility of doing it.
Angela認為只要有機會當上模特兒(如果那麼地吸引男士的話)
There is nothing worse in life than being ordinary.
In this case, another way of saying average or not easily noticed.
這個平凡無奇的生活是最無趣,最糟糕的事了。此處也是Angela 自信滿滿覺得自己十分美麗特別。
Somebody hung up, and I star-69ed, and I called you back.
“Star-69” (*69) is a feature in some phone systems that lets you know
who just called you without picking up the phone.
指電話機來電號碼顯示裝置，便知道是從Jane家中撥出來的電話。
The Fitts family moves in next door, Angela dreams of being
a model, and Carolyn drags Lester to a party of her business colleagues.
Colonel Frank Fitts, U.S Marine Corps.
A “Colonel” is a high rank or level in the military. The “Marine Corps” are the military branch that are known for fighting on beaches.
Rick的父親向鄰居自我介紹；美國海軍上校
This is my partner. :: Jim Berkeley, but people call me J.B.
Note that the use of “partner” to refer to a gay lover,
a person who is also often called a significant other.
影片中特指男同性戀伴侶,也常被稱之為”重要的另一半”
Let’s cut to the chase. :: What are you guys selling?
“To cut to the chase” is a slangy way of saying to
quickly get to the point, or say what needs to be said.
此俚語指”有話快說”,”講重點”
He’s a tax attorney. :: And he’s an anesthesiologist.
An “attorney” is a lawyer, and an “anesthesiologist” is a person
who gives anesthesia and other pain killers to people having surgery.
前者指律師,後者為麻醉師
How come these faggots have to always rub it in your face?
“Faggot” is a very negative slur (insult word) for a gay man.
If a person “rubs it in your face,” they are making obvious
what you would rather not see.
很負面的一種稱呼男同性戀者。而”rub it in your face”特指某人再你面前做一些不雅的動作,做一些你不想看到的事情
How can they be so shameless?
An excellent word to describe a person who is without shame,
or whose behavior suggests they have no morals or dignity.
不知羞恥
Don’t placate me like I’m your mother, boy.
“To placate” a person is to try and stop them from feeling angry, often by agreeing with them, or doing something they want you to do.
順從或安撫某人使其平靜,不生氣
Forgive me for speaking so bluntly, but those fags
make me want to puke my fucking guts out.
To speak “bluntly” is to speak honestly, or frankly. “Fag” is also a slur for a gay man. “To puke” is a slang word meaning to vomit or throw up, and “guts” are stomach intestines.
老實說,那些同性戀的人令我噁心。guts原指”膽量”,此處指腸胃,膽汁都要吐出來了
He just pulled down his pants and yanked it out.
“To yank” something is to pull it out suddenly or forcefully.
此處指很突然地,很快地秀出性器官
So did you do it with him?
In the right context, to “do it” with a person is to have sex with them.
就是指發生性關係
He’s a well-known photographer. He shoots for Elle, on like, a regular basis.
Elle is a well-known women’s fashion magazine. To do something “on a regular basis” is to do it regularly, or consistently. Note the use of “like,” which is an extremely common filler word (with no meaning) among many teenagers and others. Be aware of it, but avoid it!
女性時裝雜誌名稱。
定期/固定幫此雜誌拍攝照片。青少年說話太常用”like”這字穿插其中。其實我們知道就好，不要氾濫用這個字。
It would have been so majorly stupid of me to turn him down.
In this case, “majorly” is a slangy adverb that means completely.
Here, “to turn down” a person is to refuse to have sex with them.
指拒絕與某人上床實在是太笨了。可能是指對方互相利用、有利可圖。
You’re this pampered little suburban chick.
If a person is “pampered,” they are spoiled and always get what they want from others. “Suburban” refers to the suburbs or residential neighborhoods outside cities, and “chick” is a slang word for a female.
指被寵壞的女孩要什麼得一定得到不可。而”suburban”郊外的住宅區。
Stop acting like your god damn Christi Turlington.
“God damn” as a filler adjective is a crude way to express emotion such as anger of frustration. Turlington is a well-known model.
God-dam粗魯或舉喪的口氣；而此處是指責Angela別再裝模作樣像Christi Turlington名模一般。
Cunt!
This is considered by many to be the most vulgar word in English!
A crude way to refer to female sex organs, and an insult word that is even stronger than bitch.
這個字是非常粗俗的用字，指女性之性器官。
I’m so sick of people taking their insecurities out on me.
If a person is “insecure,” they have no confidence in themselves.
If you “take your insecurities out on” another person, you are blaming them for your lack of confidence.
指自己本身缺乏自信，而又將此不安全感遷怒別人，責備別人、發洩在別人身上。
That’s the pervert who filmed me last night.
A “pervert” is a strange person who is often
thought to have strange or bizarre sexual desires.
是行為怪異或性變態的人。此處指Ricky晚上偷拍Jane的事情。
No way, he’s a total lunatic.
“No way” is a common way of saying absolutely not.
A “lunatic” is a crazy or insane person.
常用”lunatic”指瘋子、不正常的人。
He would always serve the most random, weird things.
If something is “random,” it is made or done without fitting
any pattern or plan. “Weird” means strange or bizarre.
His parents had to put him in a mental institution.
A hospital run by the state for crazy or mentally disturbed people.
精神病院或療養院。
You total slut! You got a crush on him!
A “slut” is a woman who has sex with lots of men. A silly word, in part because there is no such word for a man! “To have a crush on” a person is to like them in a romantic way, even though you don’t really know them very well. A dated but fun expression.
罵指與眾多男士上床之女性。而對某人偷偷愛慕則是have a crush on someone是個滿好玩的說法。
I remember this creepy incident when you were filming last night.
If something is “creepy,” it is scary or disturbing.
An “incident” is a small event or occurrence.
指偷拍這件令人害怕討厭之事。
I really don’t need to have some psycho obsessing about
me right now. :: I’m not obsessing, I’m just curious.
“Psycho” is a funny slang word for a crazy or insane person. “To obsess” about someone is to constantly be thinking about them.
此處psycho指精神異常的人。
指Ricky變態，為Jane著魔而偷拍。
What a freak! And why does he dress like a bible salesman?
A “freak” is a person who looks very strange, or behaves in very strange or bizarre ways. A powerful and common slang word.
怪胎、神經病。口氣很強但很常用。
Everyone here is with their spouse or significant other.
A “spouse” is a husband or wife. “Significant other” is a popular expression for a boyfriend, girlfriend, spouse, lover, or gay partner.
前者指配偶。後者廣義指另一半，也包括男女朋友或同性戀伴侶、同志等等。
這裡是Carolyn 要Lester陪同出席參加一些聚會
How would it look if I showed up with no one?
A widely used way of saying to arrive.
出席、出現某場合。
This is an important business function. My business is
selling an image, and part of that job is to live that image.
A “business function” is a dinner or social event such as a party in which making business connections is considered as important as having a good time. “To live an image” is Carolyn’s way of saying to appear to be living in a certain way, so that others will see her as being successful in both a personal and business sense.
此處Carolyn指”推銷業務”已成為他生活的一部分，而維持這專業形象亦成為他生活的一部分。
Say whatever you want to say and spare me the propaganda.
“Spare me” the details is a way of telling a person you are not interested in hearing about them. “Propaganda” is ideas and publicity
that are spread around by governments, in order to manipulate people, or to convince them to think in a certain or acceptable way.
此處是指少推銷、少做宣傳，直接了當說。
Do you party? Do you get high?
“To party” is a relatively new and slangy verb which means to do the things one does at a party---drink, take drugs, dance, etc… “To get high” is to feel the various effects of an illegal drug like marijuana.
此處指一些party聚會中，磕藥、吸毒、喝酒等興奮之行為。Rick和Lester相談甚歡，並提起吸毒一事。
I wouldn’t tell you this if I weren’t a little
tipsy….but, I’m in complete awe of you.
If a person is “tipsy,” they are slightly drunk, dizzy and likely to fall or stumble. To be “in awe of” a person is to have extreme respect for them, possibly combined with fear of their great authority.
些許醉意。指敬畏崇拜某人，通常是對權貴地位很高的人。
Your firm is hands-down the Rolls Royce of local real estate firms.
“Hands-down” is a grammatically curious expression which means absolutely, or without competition. A “Rolls Royce” is one of the most expensive cars in the world.
Carolyn很崇拜的對Buddy表示他是房屋仲介業之龍頭老大
Your personal sales record…is very intimidating.
If something is “intimidating,” it is threatening and scary.
銷售業績很高、很嚇人。
I’d love to sit down with you and pick your brain.
“To pick a person’s brain” is to talk with them for a while in order
to find out what they think or know about a particular subject.
指從言語中吸取對方對某些主題的看法或精華。
Technically, I’m the competition, but I don’t flatter myself that I’m even in the same league with you.
In this type of context, “technically” essentially means “One could say that…” This usage is very common. “To flatter” a person is to speak highly or positively about them. A “league” is a division in sports that divides players by how good they are (Pro League, AAA League, etc).
Carolyn 說明自己並非自誇，聲稱自己和銷售大王Buddy是同一陣線或同一等級。
Lester meets Ricky, remembers how happy he had been as a
teenager, and realizes how dead his life and marriage have become.
Did you see that movie where the body is carrying its
own head, where the head goes down on that babe?!
In this context, to “go down” on a person is to give them oral
sex. “Babe” is a very slangy word for a good-looking woman.
暗指進行口交。此處 Lester和Ricky聊到年輕時看的一部電影，快活的時光與現在無趣的婚姻生活無法相比。
I just do these gigs as a cover; I have other sources of income.
A “gig” is a slang term for a job, or more often, a concert for a musician. To do something “as a cover” is to do it just to fool
other people (In this case to fool Ricky’s dad).
Ricky表明自己當服務生這項工作只是一個掩護；真正其他收入卻來自販毒
My dad interferes less in my life when I pretend to be
an upstanding young citizen with a respectable job.
An “upstanding citizen” is a person who obeys the law, doesn’t cause problems and is well respected. A loved expression for politicians.
指守法不惹麻煩又受人尊敬的好公民。政客們很喜愛用此說法。
I should say hi to your dad. I don’t want to be rude.
A good alternative to impolite, obnoxious or badly mannered.
粗魯沒教養。
Last time I saw you, you looked kind of wound up.
If a person is “wound up,” they are very tense or perhaps upset.
緊張或心情不好難過之表情
Rootbeer.
A popular soft drink that many Europeans say tastes like cough syrup.
很多歐洲人說這種飲料味道像咳嗽糖漿。
She’s going to spend the night.
Note the verb: “To spend” time at a place is to pass time there.
此處指在某處過夜。
To you, he’s just another guy who wants to jump your bones.
“To jump a person’s bones” is a fun but
silly way of saying to have sex with them.
此說法有一些好笑，但傻裡傻氣的口氣，指想與某人上床。
Your mom is the one who is embarrassing. What a phony!
A person who is a “phony” often says things they don’t
really believe, or acts in ways that are false or hypocritical.
指某人說話言不由衷、虛偽、偽君子。
If he just worked out a little, he’d be hot.
“To work out” is a common way of saying to exercise. In this
context, if a person is “hot,” they are very sexy or attractive.
健身運動。“Hot”常指某人很性感、很吸引人。
You never sneaked a peak at him in his underwear? I bet he’s got a big dick.
“To sneak a peak” at a person is to very quickly look at them, without them noticing (perhaps when they are naked and unaware). “Dick” is
one of the most common slang terms for a penis (along with “cock”).
指很快偷瞄一下。而Dick、cock都是很常用的俚語，指男性陰莖。
You’re so grossing me out right now.
A classic line of teenage English! “To gross out” a person is to disgust them, or even make them sick. Note both the use of “so,” and putting the verb in the progressive tense, adds to its colloquial teen charm.
真令我噁心到家。青少年常用語。注意此處”so”的用法，特別有青少年口語玩味的可愛之處。
If he built up his chest and arms, I’d totally fuck him.
“To build up” your arms or chest is to increase their muscle size by
lifting weights or other exercise. Note that “totally” is a much loved adverb that is over-used by many teenagers.
指勤練胸肌和臂肌。而”totally”則是青少年愛用(濫用)的說辭，指一定。
It’s the psycho next door! What if he worships you?!
“To worship” a person is to greatly admire
and respect them, as if they were a God.
指崇拜或愛慕某人之意。
What if he’s got a shrine with pictures of you
surrounded by dead people’s heads and stuff?
A “shrine” is a place of worship or prayer
in honor of a God or religious figure.
指擺滿顝顱頭等類似可以作法或祈禱拜拜的神壇。此處指Jane害怕被偷拍照片被擺在神壇前做法。
come to America’s weirdest home videos.
“Home videos” are private movies made by people with their own video cameras (“America’s Funniest Home Videos” is a TV show).
美國有名很受歡迎的電視節目，主要播放民眾自拍的各式好玩怪異的錄影帶。
So what’s up?
A very common way of asking what’s new, how’s life, etc….
I need a urine sample. :: Wow, it’s been six months!
“A urine sample” is a small glass of urine (piss) that is often used to
see if a person has been using drugs. “Wow” is a very common way
of expressing great excitement, surprise or other emotion.
尿液採樣，測試看是否有嗑藥等。Ricky的父親仍突襲檢查其是否喀藥
Can I give it to you in the morning? I just took a whiz.
“To take a whiz” is to urinate. “To take a leak” is much more common.
指剛剛才去上過小號。也常用to take a leak。
You’ve been working out, haven’t you? I can tell.
Note the verb “to tell” often means to see or realize.
“看得出來”某人一直有在健身。Angela 說此話故意挑逗 Jane的父親。
You were masturbating! :: Oh, all right, so shoot me! I was whacking off.
“So shoot me” is a funny way to reply to a person who has accused you of doing something wrong. A way of saying “I don’t care that you’re upset.” “To whack off” is another slang term meaning to masturbate.
難不成要殺了我！才不在乎對方生氣呢！此處是 Lester在自慰時被妻子看到之後所說的話。
That’s right. I was choking the bishop, chafing the
carrot, saying hi to my monster. :: That’s disgusting.
Three ridiculous ways of saying to masturbate, none of which are really used (A “bishop” is a figure in a church and a piece in the game of chess, and to “chafe” is to become sore after being rubbed too much).
以上說法都極為荒謬,是Lester在劇中說自己自慰一事。分別是勒主教的脖子,搓紅羅蔔及和我的怪獸打招呼
Well, excuse me, but some of us still have blood pumping through our veins.
“Some of us” is a colloquial way of actually referring to yourself when you want to make a point. If liquid is “pumping through” a vein, it is moving quickly through it. “Veins” are the small tubes that carry blood
in the body. This is Lester’s way of saying he is still interested in sex.
這裡也是Lester反諷其老婆之說法。意指”人家”也是有血有肉的,也還是需要性生活。字面意思為血管內血液澎湃地流著
I’ve changed. And the new me whacks off when he feels horny,
cause you’re obviously not going to help me out in that department.
This is Lester’s colorful way of saying he knows that
Carolyn is no longer interested in having sex with him.
指Lester早就知道自己的太太早已對他”性趣”缺缺
Don’t you mess with me, Mister! I will divorce you so fast,
it will make your head spin. :: On what grounds?!
“Don’t mess with me” is a way of telling a person to stop provoking or upsetting them (Note the use of ‘you” for added emphasis). “It will make you head spin” is a way of saying it will greatly surprise you.
“On what grounds” is a way of asking the legal reason for an action.
Carolyn指Lester別把他惹火了,別把他逼瘋了,否則火速離婚讓他連吃驚一下都來不及。
憑什麼可以離婚?
I don’t even try to touch you, since you made it so
abundantly clear how unnecessary you consider me to be.
In this case, “abundantly” means completely or totally.
完全地,徹頭徹尾地
I did support you when you got your license, and some
people might think that entitles me to half of what’s yours.
The “license” Lester is referring to is one to sell real estate. If a person
is “entitled” to something, they have a legal right to it. This is Lester’s way of saying that after a divorce, he’d get half of Carolyn’s money.
這裡指的是房地產仲介之執照。此處Lester威脅太太,若離婚後仍可得到太太所得的一半
I figured you guys might be able to give
me some pointers; I need to shape up fast.
“To figure” is to think or believe. A “pointer” is a helpful suggestion, and to “shape up” is to get in good physical shape, often by exercising.
“pointer”意指”好點子”或一些好的指示,以便可以在短時間內鍛鍊出好身材
Do you want increased strength and
flexibility as well? :: I want to look good naked.
In this case, “flexibility” is the ability to move and
stretch your arms, legs and body muscles without pain.
指靈活度,健身之後使四肢靈活,也不會疼痛
What is this? Fucking gay pride parade?
Note that many ethnic and other social groups have annual parades
to celebrate their identities (Pride is a sense of self-respect, and thus a Gay Pride parade celebrates gay culture). Also note the use of “fucking” as an adjective, which is crude but common.
常有不同族群或社會團體舉辦遊行,而同性戀為自我認同,也常慶祝或街上遊行
My entire life is passing before my eyes,
and those two have barely broken a sweat.
“Barely” means only just, or hardly. “To break a sweat” is to
begin to sweat or perspire, usually because of having exercised.
指那些幾乎都不運動,不流一滴汗的人。注意”barely”的意思就是”hardly”
I have to take a drug test every six months just to make sure I’m clean.
“I’m clean” is Ricky’s way of saying that he’s not using illegal drugs.
指沒有用要吸毒之情況,用”clean”來指明
Are you kidding? You just smoked last night.
“To kid” is to joke around or not speak seriously (But note
that this is almost always used in the progressive tense).
你在開玩笑嗎?
注意一下都是用”現在進行式” 來表達
One of my clients is a nurse in a pediatrician’s office.
A “pediatrician” is a children’s doctor.
指小兒科
I cut her a deal, and she keeps me in clean piss.
This is Ricky’s way of saying that he agreed to sell his friend marijuana
for a very cheap price, and in exchange, the friend gives Ricky urine (piss) from the doctor’s office that will not have any drugs in it.
指Ricky是如何通過尿液偵測反應,其實Ricky用低價賣大麻給他的朋友,然後交換到”clean”沒藥物反應的尿液來避開檢查自己的尿液這一關
Pink Floyd.
A very popular rock group in the 1970s.
70年代很有名的搖滾樂團,有”牆”等專輯
How much is an ounce?
An “ounce” is 1/16th of a pound, and the unit of measurement
for many illegal drugs like cocaine or marijuana.
特別在計量藥物的單位,1”ounce”為16分之一”pound”
This shit is top of the line. It’s called G-B, and it’s
genetically engineered by the US government.
If something is “top of the line,” it is considered the very best quality.
If a drug is “genetically engineered,” it is made by changing around the basic biological structures (genes, or DNA) of a plant or animal.
最佳品質,最高檔的東西。指是美國政府從植物或動物基因改進而研發出來的產品
It’s extremely potent, but a completely mellow high. No paranoia.
If something is “potent,” it is strong or powerful. “Mellow” is a popular slang word form the 1970s which means gentle, soft or pleasant, and in this case a “high” is the pleasant feeling one gets from an illegal drug like marijuana. “Paranoia” is a feeling of great fear or anxiety.
藥性很強,但又會讓你覺得很舒服,很high。服用完不會有恐懼或焦慮的感覺
How much? :: Two grand.
A “grand” is a slang term for 1,000 dollars.
俗語:指一千美元
Jesus! Things have changed since 1973.
A common way of expressing emotion such as surprise or frustration.
You don’t have to pay now. I know you’re good for it.
If a person is “good for” their debts, they are responsible and will pay it.
此處指某人信用很好,不會呆帳
There’s a card in there with my beeper number. Beep me anytime.
A “beeper” is a small pocket device which tells a person when they have received a phone call. Note that there’s both a noun and a verb.
指B.B. call 隨身電子呼叫器。而現在一般人則使用手機
When I was your age, I flipped burgers all summer
just to be able to buy an 8-track. :: That sucks.
“To flip” burgers is to turn them over by throwing them gently in the air. An “8-track” is a type of music tape that died out after the 1970s.
If something “sucks,” it is considered very bad. Crude but common.
指速食店的打工時翻動漢堡之動作
“8-track”指的是70年代以前很流行的音樂帶子。That “sucks”指某人很令人討厭
All I did was party and get laid.
“To get laid” is a crude but widely used way of saying to have sex.
比較粗俗的講法,套句現在年輕人的用語就是 “炒飯”或”劈腿”
My dad thinks I pay for all of this with catering jobs.
“Catering jobs” are those jobs in which people serve
food and drinks at parties and other social meetings.
在派對或外燴替人準備餐點之工作
Never underestimate the power of denial.
“To underestimate” something is to not take it as seriously, or value it as highly, as one should. “Denial” is the act of denying or refusing to admit something.
The Burnhams fall apart as Les quits his job in order to
become a teenager, Carolyn decides to sleep with the
enemy, and Jane and Ricky become very close friends.
What the hell do you think you’re doing?
Note that “the hell” is often added to Wh questions
to express emotion such as frustration or anger.
表示氣憤或沮喪時常在Wh為首之問句中加入此用語
Bench presses. I’m going to whale on
my pecks and then I’m going to do my back.
“Bench presses” is a way of lifting weights. “Pecks” are a slang term for chest muscles, but the expression above is rarely if ever used. This is Lester’s way of saying he’s going to increase his chest and back muscles.
在劇中Lester用語,指要加強鍛鍊自己的胸肌或背部。”Bench presses”式一種舉重的招式
I see you’ve been smoking pot now.
“Pot” is the most common way of referring to marijuana.
指大麻
I think using illegal psychotropic substances….
is a very positive example to set for our daughter.
“Psychotropic substances” is a medical way of referring to drugs like marijuana that cause people to have strange psychological effects.
If you “set a positive example” for a person, you act in such a way that
they can look up to you as an example for how they should act.
通常大麻等藥物要有心理的療效。而此處反諷指吸毒為女兒建立了好榜樣
You’re one to talk, you bloodless money-grubbing freak.
A classic line. “You’re one to talk” is a way of telling a person that they are being hypocritical, or saying one thing but behaving differently.
“Bloodless” means cowardly or fearful, but this is rarely used. If a person is “money-grubbing,” they’re always looking for ways to make money in any possible way, and a “freak” is a strange or bizarre person.
指某人指示說一套做一套,偽善。而後者指無所不做,到處收刮錢的怪人
You have such hostility in you.
“Hostility” is anger toward another person.
指敵意
You will not get away with this.
“To get away with” something is to be able to do it without
being caught or punished, even if it is a bad or illegal action.
特別做壞事而又可以脫身而出,不受處罰。
“My job basically consists of masking my contempt for the assholes in
charge, and at least once a day retiring to the men’s room so I can jerk off…..
“To consist of” means to be made of. “To mask” something is to hide it, and “contempt” is a powerful noun meaning complete lack of respect, or disdain. “The men’s room” is the men’s bathroom.
Lester對工作及上司充滿不滿與歧視，但還是得掩藏起來
…..while I fantasize a life that doesn’t so closely resemble hell.”
“To fantasize” about something is to dream about
it, and “to resemble” something is to look like it.
幻想生活不是像地獄一樣地苦。意味著平時的生活有如地獄般苦悶
For 14 years, I’ve been a whore for the advertising industry.
A widely used word for a prostitute.
妓女
What sort of severance package is management prepared to offer me?….
A “severance package” is the money and other items that a
company offers an employee after they are fired or let go.
Severance原指”切斷”,”分離” 。此處為退職津貼。指員工被資遣或炒魷魚時,公司會給的一些錢或其他等,整個配套政策為一個package
…considering the information I have about our
editorial director buying pussy with company money?
An “editorial director” is the person responsible for the contents of
a magazine or newspaper. “Pussy” is a crude term for female sex organs, or in this case, for sex in general.
指編輯部主任用公司的錢召妓。”Pussy”是一種很粗魯的用語
I think it would interest the IRS, since it technically constitutes fraud.
The IRS is the Internal Revenue Service, which is the federal government agency that collects all taxes. “To constitute” means to be made of, or be equal to. “Fraud” is a legal term that refers to the illegal act of lying to or deceiving others in order to gain personally.
IRS是國稅局的簡稱。fraud是詐欺行為
I’m sure some of our advertisers and rival publications might
like to know about it as well, not to mention….Craig’s wife.
A “rival” is a major competitor, and a publication
is usually either a book, magazine or newspaper.
rival原指競爭對手。此處指同業或具與自己之出版品競爭能力之出版品
One year’s salary with benefits.
In this context, “benefits” include the various things that employers give employees besides money, including health insurance, retirement pay and paid vacations.
薪水之外還有之福利,如健康醫療保險,退休金或有給休假
What do you say if I throw in a little sexual harassment charge, to boot?
A “sexual harassment” charge is an official accusation that one person has tried to intimidate or scare the other into offering sexual favors while on the job. “To boot” is a colloquial way of saying “in addition.”
“to boot”:十分口語的說法,和”in addition”意思相同,此處指上司對員工性騷擾的指控
Can you prove that you didn’t offer to save my job if I let you blow me?
In this case, to “blow” a person is to give them oral sex (A “blow job”
is the most common way of referring to oral sex on a man).
(指對男性進行口交)
Man, you are one twisted fuck.
If a person is “twisted,” they are immoral or psychologically disturbed. Note the use of “fuck” as an insult noun, which is interesting but rare.
“twisted”原指扭曲。此處就是指不道德或不正常的人
Let’s just say that things were a little hectic around the house.
If things are “hectic,” they are filled
with hurried movements and excitement.
指家裡有一些混亂急躁的感覺
Yes, we are splitting up.
“To split up” is an alternative way of saying to break up.
指夫起獲朋友吵架,分開
According to her, I’m too focused on my career…as if
being driven to succeed is some kind of character flaw.
If a person is “focused” on something, they concentrate and spend much time on it. A person who is “driven to succeed” is determined to do well or be successful. A “character flaw” is a personal trait or habit that is considered negative, such as willingness to lie.
指過去太專注於事業上,有如認真工作追求成功是人格上一大弱點。”flaw”指缺點或性格上之特質,通常是負面的
It is my philosophy that in order to be successful,
one must project an image of success at all times.
“To project” an image is to constantly act as if
that image or reputation is accurate and true.
投射出,表現出一種積極,正面的形象
I think maybe you forgot your medication today, mental boy.
“Medication” is a word for medicine, in this case for a mental disease. “Mental boy” is a silly insult for an emotionally disturbed person.
諷刺的說法。指某人情緒,精神異常卻又忘了服用藥物加以控制。”mental”原指心靈上的,精神狀態的
I don’t want to end up hacked to pieces in a dumpster somewhere.
“To end up” is to finish or complete. If a person is “hacked to pieces,” they have been cut into small pieces by an ax or knife. A “dumpster”
is a large trash container often used for big apartment buildings.
指不願到後來下場悲慘,有如被剁成好幾塊置之大垃圾筒裏
Jane, that’s like, almost a mile.
A unit of length that is equal to about 1,609 meters.
You like being nailed by the king?! :: Yeah, fuck me, your majesty.
In this case, to “nail” a person is to have sex with them. “Your
majesty” is the expression one uses to address a King or Queen.
“nail”原意是指甲。此處指”某人願意,喜歡和別人上床”而majesty則是對君主或女王之尊稱
I’d like to fill out an application. :: There’s
no job for manager, just for counter.
If you “fill out a job application,” you write in information about yourself on a standard question form to see if an employer is interested in you. The “counter” at a fast food place is the flat surface
where the money and food are exchanged.
填申請表找工作。
櫃台的工作。此處Lester離職後在速食店打工
I don’t think you’d fit in here.
If a person doesn’t “fit in” at a particular place, they would not be comfortable being there, perhaps because everyone else is so different.
指某人不適合此地的工作或環境
I’m sure there’s been amazing technological advances in the
industry, but surely you must have some sort of training program.
“Amazing” is a powerful adjective meaning incredible or fantastic.
“Technological advances” refer to things such as computers, cell phones, etc. A “training program” teaches people new skills.
很不得了之科技上的進步,但無可厚非也少不了訓練部門吧
That was exactly what I needed. “The royal treatment,” so to speak.
“Royal” is an adjective that refers to the king, queen or monarchy
(though the word is also widely used in advertising). “So to speak”
is an expression that is used to show that the words one just used can be interpreted or mean different things.
與前面之”your majesty”用法相呼應,指皇家貴族之禮遇
I was so stressed out.
A person who is “stressed out” is feeling very tense or nervous.
常用此片語指壓力很大,很累
I go to this firing range downtown, and I pop off a few rounds.
A “firing range” is a place where people practice shooting guns, and to “pop off a few rounds” is to shoot a few times, usually firing at a target.
射箭場練習個幾回。”range”原指範圍或牧場亦可以指射擊場地
People who used to live there fed the stray cats, so
they were always around, and it drove my mother nuts.
“Stray cats” are those cats in the neighborhood that don’t belong to anybody. If something “drives a person nuts,” it makes them crazy.
野貓。指野貓令人快瘋了,快受不了了
This is where my dad hangs out. :: I take it he has a thing for guns.
“To hang out” in a place is to pass a lot of time there.
If a person “has a thing” for guns, they like guns a lot.
某人經常出沒閒晃之地,而”has a thing”片語指對某種事物喜愛,有興趣
One of my clients is a locksmith.
A person who works with keys and locks.
鎖匠,類似的用法有blacksmith為鐵匠或鍛工
It’s like official state china of the 3rd Reich.
In this case, “china” refers to fine plates, cuts and silverware.
The “3rd Reich” was Germany’s nazi government under Hitler.
“china”此處指在希特勒統治底下享有之精緻的瓷器或餐具
There’s a whole subculture who collect this Nazi shit.
A “subculture” is a group of people within society that have a
specific interest or lifestyle that is different from the majority.
只有一群人特有之生活習慣或作風而獨樹一格,形成一種”次文化”,如收集一些納粹時期之瓷器碗盤等
This incredibly benevolent force wanted me to
know that there was no reason to be afraid, ever.
If a person is “benevolent,” they are nice or kind and have good intentions. In this case, a “force” is a general power, such as a God
or nature itself.
指”仁慈的力量”,如上帝或大自然的力量
Sometime there’s so much beauty in the world I feel
that I can’t take it, and my heart is just going to cave in.
If a person “can’t take it,” they don’t have the strength or energy to deal with it. If a building “caves in,” it collapses or falls down.
指快承受不住了,而整個心靈會崩潰
I quit my job and then I told my boss to go fuck himself,
and then I blackmailed him for almost $60,000.
Note that after you tell a person “fuck you,” you can then tell a 3rd person that you told them to “go fuck themselves.” Very crude, but useful. “To blackmail” a person is to threaten to reveal something they want kept secret, unless they agree to pay money.
很粗俗的說法,但也很常用。指對某人相當不滿也相當氣憤時說的話。
“to blackmail”指向某人恐嚇財
Your mother prefers I go through life like a fucking prisoner
while she keeps my dick in a mason jar under the sink.
“Dick” is a slang word for a penis, and a “mason jar” is a wide-mouthed jar that is commonly used for storing home made jam.
此處Lester諷刺其太太早就對他”性趣”缺缺而對待他向犯人般無法享用性生活。
“mason-jar”廣口瓶,通常存放自製果醬的那種瓶子口
How dare you speak to me like that in front of her!
“How dare you” is a very strong way of expressing disapproval.
I marvel that you can be so contemptuous of me on the day you lose your job.
“To marvel” at something is to be amazed by it. To be “contemptuous” of a person is to look down on them with disgust or anger.
“marvel”對某事感到極大訝異,Carolyn指丈夫居然在失業當天仍對他用語言相譏,輕視他。contempt為名詞
I want to thank you for putting me under the
added pressure of being the sole breadwinner now.
“Sole” is an interesting adjective which means only. The “breadwinner” of the house is the person who makes the money.
指Carolyn變成家中唯一之經濟來源。the sole就是the only…
Don’t give a second thought as to who is going to pay the mortgage.
The “mortgage” is the monthly payment that is made
to a bank after having borrowed money to buy a house.
特指房貸,注意mortgage字中”t”沒有發音
You don’t complain? :: Yeah, let’s bring in the
laugh meter and see how loud it gets on that one.
A machine that measures how loud the laughter is for an audience.
測量笑聲之機器
From now on were going to alternate our dinner music,
because frankly, I am really tired of this Lawrence Welk shit.
“To alternate” two things is to go back and forth between them.
“Frankly” is a common way of starting a sentence when you want to be totally honest. Lawrence Welk was a conductor who was very famous for very soft, bland and popular elevator music.
Lester明白表示要換掉那晚餐時間太太所喜愛播放之無聊音樂。
Lawrence Welk音樂以柔和抒情著稱而很多電梯內的音樂也是如此
I wish you hadn’t witnessed that awful scene tonight, but in a way, I’m glad.
“To witness” something is to see or observe it. In this case, a “scene” is
a dramatic, loud or emotional argument. If a person is “glad,” they’re satisfied or happy.
You cannot count on anyone except yourself.
The words that a person would say who has
been badly hurt by someone they had trusted.
Look, I really don’t feel like having a Kodak moment here, OK?
A famous expression from a Kodak film ad; An emotional or sweet
event or incident between two people that both will remember forever.
原是柯達相機底片的廣告台詞，指很甜蜜的時刻或很棒的感覺
You ungrateful little brat!
A person who is “ungrateful” does not appreciate what they have been given, and a “brat” is a badly-mannered person, who is usually a child.
Carolyn罵她那不知感謝的,被寵壞的女兒!
When I was your age, I lived in a duplex.
A building with two separate living units.
複式房屋,指家境不好,得與另一戶人家共住之情況
You little bastard! How did you get in there?
A crude and classic insult. A “bastard” is a mean or abusive man.
“bastard”罵人的話,指很卑鄙的男生
Fight back, you little pussy! :: No Sir, I won’t fight you.
In this case, a “pussy” is a coward, or a person who is too scared to act.
“pussy”此處又可指膽小的人。此處 Ricky的父親再度對他拳打腳踢
I picked the lock, Sir.
“To pick” a lock is to open it, usually by using a small tool.
指開鎖
What are you looking for, money? Are you on dope again?
“Dope” is a common colloquial word for illegal drugs like marijuana.
“on dope”很常用之口語,指吸毒
You need discipline. :: Don’t give up on me, Dad.
“Discipline” is either self-control or the threat of punishment, usually to get a child to behave correctly. “To give up on” a person is to decide that they will not ever succeed.
此處指Rick與其父親之間的關係及互動緊張的一面
I thought you’d be hopeless, but you’re a natural.
A person who is “a natural” at a particular job or skill is
very good at it, even if they have not done it in the past.
指某人簡直是天生就擅長某事或技能
Lester catches Carolyn with Buddy as Jane and Ricky
grow closer, but Ricky soon has big problems with his dad.
1970 Pontiac Firebird! I rule!
The Pontiac Firebird is a type of very sporty car. “I rule” is a teenager’s way of saying that they are great (or more colloquially, cool), for having done something cool (In this case, for having bought the Firebird).
一種青少年極喜愛的跑車。”I rule”用語與”cool”類似,指棒透了
Shouldn’t you have consulted me first?
“To consult” with a person is to talk with them in order
to get their opinion in a particular topic or issue.
先與某人商量。Lester任意買了一輛年輕人喜愛開的跑車而沒和妻子商量
When did you become so….joyless.
A rare but powerful word for unhappy.
不常用此說法,意指”unhappy”
Whatever happened to that girl who used to
fake seizures at frat parties when she got bored?
A “seizure” is a sudden medical condition in which people often begin to shake violently and lose control over their bodily functions. A “frat party” is a party at a college fraternity, which is usually a house where many male students live who love to drink beer.
“seizure”原指”捕獲”,此處指疾病之發作,身體不聽使喚之顫動起來
“frat party”指大學內男同學社團所舉行的派對。此處指女生在派對中無聊時會佯裝疾病發作而引人注意。
We used to run up to the roof…to flash the traffic helicopters.
If you “ flash” a person, you pull down your pants in order to very briefly show them your ass. It’s a bit hard to flash a helicopter!
指脫下褲子,很快地秀一下屁股給別人看
Lester, you’re going to spill beer on the couch.
“To spill” a liquid is to let it accidentally pour out of a container.
指倒翻了啤酒弄髒了沙發椅
This is a $4,000 couch, upholstered in Italian silk!
“Upholstery” is material that is used to cover furniture. “Silk”
is a very fine and expensive thread that is used to make cloth.
特指非常昂貴絲質之義大利製的沙發椅
It’s just stuff, and it’s become more important
to you than life. Honey, that’s just nuts.
Here, “stuff” is just another word for things, and if
something is “nuts,” then it is crazy or insane.
指Lester認為妻子太重視表面,太不正常了,簡直是瘋子
I got kicked out.
To be “kicked out” of a school is to be officially removed.
被學校退學
Dad and I had this huge fight, and the next day at school,
some kid made a crack about my haircut, and I just snapped.
In this context, “a crack” is a joke or perhaps disrespectful remark.
If a person “snaps,” they lose their temper and often act violently
(To snap is to literally break off, or to break into two or more pieces).
指同學針對她的頭髮開玩笑,後者為此大發脾氣
“snap”原意為破碎成碎片
He’s a total asshole. He’s got this crush
on my friend, Angela, and it’s disgusting.
A “total asshole” is a complete jerk, creep or bastard. “To have
a crush” on a person is to secretly like them in a romantic way.
total a asshole, jerk, creep bastard都是罵人的稱呼,笨蛋,怪胎等
指Lester暗戀自己女兒的同學Angela
I know you think my dad’s harmless, but you’re wrong.
If a person is “harmless,” they’re not dangerous or harmful to anybody.
無傷害的,不會做出傷人的事
He’s doing massive psychological damage to me.
A powerful adjective meaning extremely big, huge or enormous.
指在心理上造成”極大”的傷害或影響
I’ve got almost $3,000. Of course, I was saving it up for a boob job.
A silly expression for plastic surgery to make a woman’s breasts bigger
(Boobs are breasts, and is probably a safer colloquial word than tits).
指隆乳手術,如鼻子美容手術亦稱a nose job
口語中也用boobs或tits指女生的胸部
Today is the first day of the rest of your life.
A favorite cliché for people who want to start their lives over.
Dad, you stare at her all the time. :: Jane, you better watch yourself,
or you’re going to turn into a real bitch, just like your mother.
“To stare at” somebody is to look at them for an extended period of time, without turning away. A “bitch” is a mean, abusive or unpleasant female. Very crude, but widely used.
盯著Angela看個不停,而此處Lester反倒要她的女兒小心點別像他母親一樣
而bitch為對女性的蔑稱
I need a super smiley with cheese, A-S-A-P.
As soon as possible. A very useful abbreviation
(The super smiley is a cheeseburger).
常用這個縮寫指As soon as possible,如BTW指By the way
The super smiley一種漢堡
I think we deserve a little junk food after the workout we had this morning.
“Junk food” is unhealthy food like hamburgers and French fries. A “workout” usually refers to vigorous exercise, although here Carolyn is talking about sex.
泛指漢堡薯條等速食垃圾食物。此處的workout原指健身運動等,而Carolyn用此詞指做愛一事。Carolyn 和 Buddy幽會被 Lester撞見
We were just at a seminar. Buddy, this is my husband.
A “seminar” is a public lecture or presentation on a particular topic.
指公眾演講或討論會議之場合。此處 Carolyn趕緊圓謊
Whoa, you are so busted! :: This really doesn’t concern you.
“Whoa” is a common way of expressing emotion such as surprise.
If a person has been “busted,” they have probably been caught doing something that is illegal or embarrassing.
為了不合法的或難為情的事而被抓到時的縮寫。”busted”指…
Actually, Jamie is senior drive-through manager, so you are on her turf.
The “drive-through” part of a fast-food restaurant is where people in cars pick up their food. “Turf” is a interesting word for land or territory.
速食店都有車道取餐點服務,名稱極為drive-through。Turf指某一地區或領域。此種說法很有趣,指員工直屬於某領隊管理下做事。on the turf
I guess we could cool it for a while
In this context, to “cool it” is to stop it, at least until things calm down.
事情暫緩或冷靜一下
So, you and psycho boy are like fucking on a regular basis.
“Psycho boy” is a silly way of referring to a person who may be crazy. To do something “on a regular basis” is to do it regularly or consistently.
精神不正常的人,此處指Rick
Now that you have a boyfriend, you’re like above it?
In this context, to be “above it” is to be more concerned
with other things, or to think that it is not so important.
Put up a fight, dude. You are like, such a push-over.
“To put up a fight” is to try and fight back. “Dude” is a very popular word with which young males address each other. A “push-over” is a person who easily agrees to do anything.
反擊,在打回去呀.而dude是男性朋友互稱用語,”push-over”是指逆來順受什麼都答應做的人
You should learn to roll a joint.
“To roll a joint” is to make a marijuana cigarette,
by adding the drug to a piece of rolling paper.
指大麻煙捲
I should probably go see what Jane’s up to.
A slangy way of asking what a person is doing.
常用語,與What is Jane doing同意
I will not sit back and watch my only son become
a cocksucker. :: Jesus, what is it with you?!
A “cock” is a crude term for a penis, and thus a “cocksucker” is a crude term for a person who performs oral sex on men (especially other men). “What is it with you?” can be a way of expressing great anger.
很粗俗的詞語,特指男性對其他男性口交。Ricky的父親以為兒子是個同性戀怪物
You mean that? :: You’re damn straight I do.
A slangy and somewhat dated way of saying completely correct.
沒錯,我就是…
I’d rather you were dead than be a fucking faggot.
A very crude slur (insult word) for a gay man.
指男同性戀者(有汙辱之意)
You should see me fuck. I’m the best piece of ass in three states.
Another crude term for a person who is looked
on as nothing more than a sex object.
字面上指”屁股”,但意指某人一無是處,只是個性器物罷了,非常粗俗的用詞。此處Ricky在父親一陣毒打之後故意說重話、承認自己是個玻璃。
The constant cycle of victimhood.
In this case, the idea that a person who feels that they are a victim of society will always be so until they change their actions or attitudes.
除非改變作風或態度,否則惡性循環就一直會覺得自己是一位犧牲者
You’re way too uptight about sex. :: Just don’t fuck my dad!
If a person is “uptight” about something,
they are tense or nervous about it.
指Jane對性太緊張了,有點小題大作
You’re just a kid, and he’s like a mental case.
Another slangy way of referring to a crazy or disturbed person.
精神不正常的人
We can use my plastic surgery money.
Surgery that is designed to improve a person’s physical appearance.
美容手術
I know people in the city who can help us
get set up. :: What, other drug dealers?
In this case, “to get set up” is to find a new home and establish a new life. “Drug dealers” are people who sell illegal drugs on city streets.
指有些機構協助人們戒菸或戒毒,使之重生,建立新生活
You’d be out of your mind to go with him.
If a person is “out of their mind,” they’re crazy or emotionally unstable.
瘋狂不正常
Go fuck yourself! :: Hey, shut up, bitch.
An honorable if equally crude alternative to “fuck you!”
Jane和Angela 鬧翻了
You two deserve each other.
The expression you’d say to a couple
when you are equally upset at both partners.
對某兩人很生氣,亦指那兩人都一樣糟糕
Lester Burnham has the strangest day of his life….
Jesus, man, you’re soaked.
If a person is “soaked,” they are completely wet, usually from rain.
全身溼透了
Where’s your wife? :: Probably out fucking
that dorky prince of real estate asshole.
“Dork” is a slang word for a jerk or fool, though dorky is rarely used.
不常用此字形容某人呆頭,笨蛋
Our marriage is just for show; A commercial for
how normal we are, when we’re anything but.
If a marriage is “just for show,” it is kept up just so that people will think the partners are still doing well, but not for any other reason.
Here, “We’re anything but” implies that the next word is normal.
此處Lester自嘲他與Carolyn的婚姻只是表面作秀一般,一點也不是正常一般的家庭
Do you want a sip? :: Sure.
A “sip” is a the act of drinking just a small amount at a time.
指小酌一下
This is my first time. :: You’re kidding.
If a person is “kidding,” they are joking or not being serious.
Angela 表明自己其實沒有任何性經驗
I’m still a little weirded out, but I feel better. Thanks.
If a person is “weirded out,” they are felling a little strange, or perhaps scared or shaken. An interesting but very slangy phrasal verb.
Angela和Lester 最後其實兩人什麼也沒做，經歷一個最奇怪的感覺；還是有點覺得奇怪。
I’ve always heard that your entire life flashes
in front of you the second before you die.
In this case, “to flash” is to pass by extremely quickly.
指回憶從眼前快速閃過。Lester在死前的幻覺
That one second stretches on forever, like an ocean of time.
In this case, “to stretch on forever” is simply to go on forever
(“To stretch” is to grow longer, often by pulling two sides apart).
那一秒鐘卻一直持續
Yellow leaves from the maple trees that lined our street.
A “maple tree” contains maple, which is the delicious syrup
that Americans love to put on their breakfast pancakes.
一般早點煎餅上林上楓漿
I guess I could be pretty pissed off about what happened to me, but
it’s hard to stay mad when there’s so much beauty in the world.
If a person is “pissed off,” they are very angry or upset. Very common.
非常氣憤
My heart fills up like a balloon that’s about to burst.
If a balloon “bursts,” it explodes because it has too much air or water.
爆裂開
And then it flows through me like rain, and I can’t feel anything
but gratitude, for every single moment of my stupid little life.
If a liquid “flows through” a body, it travels smoothly through it, perhaps like a river. “Gratitude” is an important word meaning appreciation or gratefulness.
像雨般流串在我身體,我什麼也感覺不到,只有感激,感激。Lester死時對其微不足道之人生感嘆的一段話。
American Beauty
Possible Topics for ESL Class Discussion
1) Are the Burnhams really a typical American family, or are they in fact more dysfunctional (“screwed up”) than most? What about compared to
your family?
2) Why are Lester and Carolyn so unhappy? Should they be?
3) Which characters had public images that hid who they really
were, and which ones seemed to be completely honest?
4) Do you think most men over 40 dream of being 18 again?
5) What did you like and not like about this movie?
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
On VIDEO: JANE BURNHAM lays in bed, wearing a tank top. She's sixteen, with dark, intense
eyes.
JANE
I need a father who's a role model, not some horny geek-boy who's gonna spray his shorts whenever
I bring a girlfriend home from school.
(snorts)
What a lame-o. Somebody really should put him out of his misery.
Her mind wanders for a beat.
RICKY (O.C.)
Want me to kill him for you?
Jane looks at us and sits up.
JANE
(deadpan)
Yeah, would you?
FADE TO BLACK.
FADE IN:
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - EARLY MORNING
We're FLYING above suburban America, DESCENDING SLOWLY toward a tree-lined street.
lESTER (V.O.)
My name is Lester Burnham. This is my neighborhood. This is my street. This... is my life. I'm fortytwo
years old. In less than a year, I'll be dead.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
We're looking down at a king-sized BED from OVERHEAD:
LESTER BURNHAM lies sleeping amidst expensive bed linens, face down, wearing PAJAMAS.
An irritating ALARM CLOCK RINGS. Lester gropes blindly to shut it off.
LESTER (V.O.)
Of course, I don't know that yet. He rolls over, looks up at us and sighs. He doesn't seem too thrilled
at the prospect of a new day.
LESTER (V.O.) (cont'd)
And in a way, I'm dead already.
He sits up and puts on his slippers.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BATH - MOMENTS LATER
Lester thrusts his face directly into a steaming hot shower.
ANGLE from outside the shower: Lester's naked body is silhouetted through the fogged-up glass
door. It becomes apparent he is masturbating.
LESTER (V.O.)
(amused)
Look at me, jerking off in the shower.
(then)
This will be the high point of my day. It's all downhill from here.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MOMENTS LATER
CLOSE on a single, dewy AMERICAN BEAUTY ROSE. A gloved hand with CLIPPERS appears
and SNIPS the flower off.
CAROLYN BURNHAM tends her rose bushes in front of the Burnham house. A very well-put
together woman of forty, she wears color-coordinated gardening togs and has lots of useful and
expensive tools.
Lester watches her through a WINDOW on the first floor, peeping out through the drapes.
LESTER (V.O.)
That's my wife Carolyn. See the way the handle on those pruning shears matches her gardening
clogs? That's not an accident.
EXT. JIMS' HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
In the fenced front yard of the house next door, a dog BARKS repeatedly. A MAN in a conservative
suit (JIM #1) chastises the barking dog.
JIM #1
Hush, Bitsy. You hush. What is wrong?
LESTER (V.O.)
That's our next-door neighbor Jim.
A second MAN in a conservative suit (JIM #2) comes out of the house.
LESTER (V.O.) (cont'd)
And that's his lover, Jim.
JIM #2
(re: barking dog)
What in the world is wrong with her? She had a walk this morning.
JIM #1
And a jerky treat.
JIM #2
You spoil her.
(sternly)
Bitsy. No bark. Come inside. Now.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Lester watches all this from the window.
CAROLYN
Good morning, Jim!
Jim #1 walks toward the fence to greet Carolyn.
JIM #1
Morning, Carolyn.
CAROLYN
(overly friendly)
I just love your tie! That color!
JIM #1
I just love your roses. How do you get them to flourish like this?
CAROLYN
Well, I'll tell you. Egg shells and Miracle Grow.
Jim #1 and Carolyn continue to chat, unaware that Lester is watching them.
LESTER (V.O.)
Man. I get exhausted just watching her.
Lester's POV: We can't hear what Jim and Carolyn are saying, but she's overly animated, like a TV
talk show host.
LESTER (V.O.) (cont'd)
She wasn't always like this. She used to be happy. We used to be happy.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
JANE is seated at her desk, working at her computer.
LESTER (V.O.)
My daughter Jane. Only child.
CLOSE on the COMPUTER MONITOR: A PERSONAL BANKING SOFTWARE window
suddenly disappears to reveal another window: a PLASTIC SURGERY WEBSITE, featuring
clinical "before" and "after" photos of surgically augmented breasts.
LESTER (V.O.) (cont'd)
Janie's a pretty typical teenager. Angry, insecure, confused. I wish I could tell her that's all going to
pass...
Outside, a CAR HORN BLARES. Jane stuffs items into her BACKPACK.
LESTER (V.O.) (cont'd)
But I don't want to lie to her.
We HEAR the CAR HORN again from outside. Jane studies herself in a mirror, then shifts to get a
good profile of her breasts.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn stands next to a platinum-colored MERCEDES-BENZ ML320, reaching in through the
drivers' window to blow the HORN again.
Jane shuffles out of the house, her backpack slung over her shoulder.
CAROLYN
Jane. Honey. Are you trying to look unattractive?
JANE
Yes.
CAROLYN
Well, congratulations. You've succeeded admirably.
Jane gets in the car. Lester hurries out the front door, carrying a BRIEFCASE.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
Lester, could you make me a little later, please? Because I'm not quite late enough.
Lester's briefcase suddenly springs open and his papers spill all over the driveway. He drops to his
knees to gather everything.
JANE
Nice going, Dad.
Lester smiles sheepishly, trying to lighten the moment.
His POV: Carolyn looks down at us, contemptuous but also bored, as if she gave up expecting
anything more long ago.
LESTER (V.O.)
Both my wife and daughter think I'm this gigantic loser, and... they're right.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - A SHORT TIME LATER
Carolyn is driving; Jane stares out the window. Lester is asleep in the back seat.
LESTER (V.O.)
I have lost something. I'm not exactly sure what it is, but I know I didn't always feel this... sedated.
But you know what? It's never too late to get it back.
INT. OFFICE BUILDING - DAY
Lester sits at his workstation, a BEIGE CUBICLE surrounded by IDENTICAL BEIGE CUBICLES.
He's staring at a computer monitor and talking on a HEADSET PHONE. The beleaguered expression
on his face is at odds with the light, friendly tone of his voice.
LESTER
Hello, this is Lester Burnham from Media Monthly magazine, I'm calling for Mr. Tamblin, please?...
Well, we're all under a deadline here, uh, but you see, there is some basic information about the
product launch that isn't even covered in your press release and I... Yeah. Can I ask you a question?
Who is Tamblin? Does he exist? 'Cause he doesn't ever seem to come in... Yeah, okay, I'll leave my
number...
BRAD, a dapper man in his thirties, approaches and observes Lester, who is unaware of his
presence.
LESTER (cont'd)
It's 555 0199. Lester Burnham. Thank you!
Lester disconnects the call, obviously irritated.
BRAD
Hey Les. You got a minute?
Lester turns around, smiling perfunctorily
LESTER
For you, Brad? I've got five.
INT. BRAD'S OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER
Brad is seated behind his desk in his big corner office.
BRAD
I'm sure you can understand our need to cut corners around here.
Lester sits across from him, looking small and isolated.
LESTER
Oh, sure. Times are tight, and you gotta free up cash. Gotta spend money to make money. Right?
BRAD
Exactly. So...
Brad stands, ready to usher Lester out.
LESTER
(blurts)
Like the time when Mr. Flournoy used the company MasterCard to pay for that hooker, and then she
used the card numbers and stayed at the St. Regis for, what was it, like, three months?
BRAD
(startled)
That's unsubstantiated gossip.
LESTER
That's fifty thousand dollars. That's somebody's salary. That's somebody who's gonna get fired
because Craig has to pay women to fuck him!
BRAD
Jesus. Calm down. Nobody's getting fired yet. That's why we're having everyone write out a job
description, mapping out in detail how they contribute. That way, management can assess who's
valuable and--
LESTER
Who's expendable.
BRAD
It's just business.
LESTER
(angry)
I've been writing for this magazine for fourteen years, Brad. You've been here how long, a whole
month?
BRAD
(frank)
I'm one of the good guys, Les. I'm trying to level with you. This is your one chance to save your job.
Lester stares at him, powerless.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - LATE AFTERNOON
A MOVING VAN is parked in front of the COLONIAL HOUSE next door to the Burnhams'.
Movers carry furniture toward the house.
The Mercedes-Benz pulls into the Burnham driveway. Carolyn drives, Lester is in the passenger
seat.
CAROLYN
--there is no decision, you just write the damn thing!
LESTER
You don't think it's weird and kinda fascist?
CAROLYN
Possibly. But you don't want to be unemployed.
LESTER
Oh, well, let's just all sell our souls and work for Satan, because it's more convenient that way.
CAROLYN
Could you be just a little bit more dramatic, please, huh?
As they get out of the car, Carolyn scopes out the MOVERS next door.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
So we've finally got new neighbors. You know, if the Lomans had let me represent them, instead of--
(heavy disdain)
--"The Real Estate King," that house would never have sat on the market for six months.
She heads into the house, followed by Lester.
LESTER
Well, they were still mad at you for cutting down their sycamore.
CAROLYN
Their sycamore? C'mon! A substantial portion of the root structure was on our property. You know
that. How can you call it their sycamore? I wouldn't have the heart to just cut down something if it
wasn't partially mine, which of course it was.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - DINING ROOM - LATER THAT NIGHT
We HEAR EASY-LISTENING MUSIC.
Lester, Carolyn and Jane are eating dinner by CANDLELIGHT. RED ROSES are bunched in a vase
at the center of the table. Nobody makes eye contact, or even seems aware of anybody else's
presence, until...
JANE
Mom, do we always have to listen to this elevator music?
CAROLYN
(considers)
No. No, we don't. As soon as you've prepared a nutritious yet savory meal that I'm about to eat, you
can listen to whatever you like.
A long beat. Lester suddenly turns to Jane.
LESTER
So Janie, how was school?
JANE
(suspicious)
It was okay.
LESTER
Just okay?
JANE
No, Dad. It was spec-tac-ular.
A beat.
LESTER
Well, you want to know how things went at my job today?
Now she looks at him as if he's lost his mind.
LESTER (cont'd)
They've hired this efficiency expert, this really friendly guy named Brad, how perfect is that? And
he's basically there to make it seem like they're justified in firing somebody, because they couldn't
just come right out and say that, could they? No, no, that would be too... honest. And so they've
asked us--
(off her look)
--you couldn't possibly care any less, could you?
Carolyn is watching this closely.
JANE
(uncomfortable)
Well, what do you expect? You can't all of a sudden be my best friend, just because you had a bad
day.
She gets up and heads toward the kitchen.
JANE (cont'd)
I mean, hello. You've barely even spoken to me for months.
She's gone. Lester notices Carolyn looking at him critically.
LESTER
Oh, what, you're mother-of-the-year? You treat her like an employee.
CAROLYN
(taken aback)
What?!
Lester is quiet, staring at his plate.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
(more authority)
What?
Lester gets up and starts after Jane, taking his plate with him.
LESTER
I'm going to get some ice cream.
Carolyn watches him go, irritated.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Jane stands at the sink, rinsing off her plate. Lester enters.
LESTER
Honey, I'm sorry. I...
Jane turns and stares at him, waiting for him to finish.
LESTER (cont'd)
I'm sorry I haven't been more available, I just... I'm...
He's looking to her for a little help here, but she's too uncomfortable with this sudden intimacy to
give him any.
LESTER (cont'd)
(finally)
You know, you don't always have to wait for me to come to you...
JANE
Oh, great. So now it's my fault?
LESTER
I didn't say that. It's nobody's fault. Janie, what happened? You and I used to be pals.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
On VIDEO: We're looking through GREENHOUSE WINDOWS at Lester and Jane in the kitchen
We can't hear what they're saying, but it's obvious it's not going well.
Jane puts her plate in the dishwasher and leaves. We FOLLOW HER out the door, then the camera
JERKS back to Lester calling after her.
CLOSE on the face of RICKY FITTS, illuminated by the screen of his DIGICAM as he videotapes.
Ricky is eighteen, but his eyes are much older. Beneath his Zen-like tranquility lurks something
wounded... and dangerous.
His POV, on VIDEO: Through the kitchen window, we see Lester at the sink, rinsing off his plate,
muttering to himself. His head suddenly jerks up and he looks at us, as if he realizes he's being
watched.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
Lester's POV: We're looking out through the kitchen window at the point where Ricky was just
standing, but he's no longer there.
Lester turns off the faucet, dries his hands, then tosses the towel on the counter on his way out,
where it lands next to a framed PHOTOGRAPH of Lester, Carolyn, and a much-younger Jane, taken
several years earlier at an amusement park.
It's startling how happy they look.
EXT. SALE HOUSE - DAY
CLOSE on a wooden SIGN that reads:
OPEN HOUSE TODAY
BURNHAM & ASSOCIATES REALTY
555-0195 Carolyn Burnham
The sign is planted in front of a RUN-DOWN HOME in a run-down neighborhood. The Mercedes is
parked in front of the house. Carolyn, wearing a smart business suit, is unloading a box of cleaning
supplies and a BOOMBOX from the back of the Mercedes when something across the street catches
her eye.
Her POV: In front of a different house with much more curb appeal is another SIGN, featuring a
picture of a handsome silver-haired MAN. It reads:
Another One SOLD By Buddy Kane
The Real Estate King 555-0100
Carolyn frowns and slams the back of the Mercedes shut.
INT. SALE HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
The interior of this house is ugly, oppressive and tasteless. Carolyn opens the front door, breathes
deeply and solemnly announces:
CAROLYN
I will sell this house today.
She neatly arranges her sales materials on a desk, then strips down to her undergarments.
MONTAGE:
We see Carolyn, working with fierce concentration as she:
Cleans glass doors that overlook the patio and pool;
Doggedly scrubs countertops in the kitchen;
Perches on a stepladder to dust a cheap-looking ceiling fan in the master bedroom;
And vacuums a dirty carpet that will never be clean.
Throughout all this, she keeps repeating to herself:
CAROLYN
I will sell this house today. I will sell this house today. I will sell this house today.
INT. SALE HOUSE - BATHROOM - LATER
Carolyn stands in front of the mirror, wearing her suit once more, applying lipstick. She stares at her
reflection critically.
CAROLYN
I will sell this house today.
She says this as if it were a threat, then notices a smudge on the mirror and wipes it off.
EXT. SALE HOUSE - FRONT YARD - LATER
The front door opens to reveal Carolyn, greeting us with the smile she thinks could sell ice to an
Eskimo.
CAROLYN
Welcome. I'm Carolyn Burnham!
INT. SALE HOUSE - FOYER - CONTINUOUS
Smiling, Carolyn leads a man and woman into the living room. They're thirtyish, and they've seen a
lot of houses today.
CAROLYN
This living room is very dramatic. Wait 'til you see the native stone fireplace!
The man and woman glance around the dark room, unimpressed.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
A simple cream would really lighten things up. You could even put in a skylight.
The woman wrinkles her face, skeptical.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
Well, why don't we go into the kitchen?
INT. SALE HOUSE - KITCHEN - LATER
Carolyn enters, followed by a different couple in their fifties.
CAROLYN
It's a dream come true for any cook. Just filled with positive energy. Huh?
INT. SALE HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - LATER
Carolyn stands with a different couple: African American, late twenties. The woman is pregnant.
CAROLYN
...and you'll be surprised how much a ceiling fan can cut down on your energy costs.
EXT. SALE HOUSE - BACK YARD - LATER
Carolyn stands by the pool next to two fortyish WOMEN.
CAROLYN
You know, you could have some really fun backyard get-togethers out here.
WOMAN #1
The ad said this pool was "lagoon-like." There's nothing "lagoon-like" about it. Except for maybe the
bugs.
WOMAN #2
There's not even any plants out here.
CAROLYN
(re: shrub)
What do you call this? Is this not a plant? If you have a problem with the plants, I can always call my
landscape architect. Solved.
WOMAN #2
I mean, I think "lagoon," I think waterfall, I think tropical. This is a cement hole.
A beat.
CAROLYN
I have some tiki torches in the garage.
INT. SALE HOUSE - SUN ROOM - LATER
Carolyn enters, alone. She's furious. She locks the sliding glass door and starts to pull the vertical
blinds shut, then stops. Standing very still, with the blinds casting shadows across her face, she starts
to cry: brief, staccato SOBS that seemingly escape against her will. Suddenly she SLAPS herself,
hard.
CAROLYN
Shut up. Stop it. You... Weak!
But the tears continue. She SLAPS herself again.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
Weak. Baby. Shut up. Shut up! Shut up!
She SLAPS herself repeatedly until she stops crying. She stands there, taking deep breaths until she
has everything under control, then pulls the blinds shut, once again all business. She walks out
calmly, leaving us alone in the dark, empty room.
We HEAR CHEERING and APPLAUSE.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUM - NIGHT
We're at a high-school BASKETBALL GAME. Teenage boys play a fast and furious game. One
team wearing pale blue and white uniforms scores a basket. Perky cheerleaders jump up and down as
the CROWD goes wild.
Seated in the bleachers, next to the high school BAND, is a group of about twenty TEENAGE
GIRLS, dressed in pale blue and white uniforms. Among them, Jane sits next to ANGELA HAYES.
At sixteen, Angela is strikingly beautiful; with perfect even features, blonde hair and a nubile young
body, she's the archetypal American dream girl.
Jane stands and scans the bleachers.
ANGELA
Who are you looking for?
JANE
My parents are coming tonight. They're trying to, you know, take an active interest in me.
ANGELA
Gross. I hate it when my mom does that.
JANE
They're such assholes. Why can't they just have their own lives?
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn drives. Lester is slumped in the passenger seat.
LESTER
What makes you so sure she wants us to be there? Did she ask us to come?
CAROLYN
Of course not. She doesn't want us to know how important this is to her. But she's been practicing
her steps for weeks.
LESTER
Well, I bet money she's going to resent it. And I'm missing the James Bond marathon on TNT.
CAROLYN
Lester, this is important. I'm sensing a real distance growing between you and Jane.
LESTER
Growing? She hates me.
CAROLYN
She's just willful.
LESTER
She hates you too.
Carolyn stares at him, unsure of how to respond.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUM - LATER
The uniformed girls now stand in formation on the gym floor.
ANNOUNCER
(over P.A.)
And now, for your half-time entertainment, Rockwell High's award-winning Dancing Spartanettes!
In the crowded stands, Lester and Carolyn find seats.
LESTER
We can leave right after this, right?
The HIGH SCHOOL BAND plays "ON BROADWAY." On the gym floor, the girls perform.
They're well-rehearsed, but too young to carry off the ambitious Vegas routine they're attempting.
Lester, watching from the stands, picks out his daughter.
His POV: Jane performs well, concentrating. Dancing awkwardly next to her is Angela. Suddenly
Angela looks right at us and smiles... a lazy, insolent smile.
Lester leans forward in his seat.
His POV: We're focused on Angela now. Everything starts to SLOW DOWN... the MUSIC acquires
an eerie ECHO...
We ZOOM slowly toward Lester as he watches, transfixed.
His POV: Angela's awkwardness gives way to a fluid grace, and "ON BROADWAY" FADES into
dreamy, hypnotic MUSIC. The light on Angela grows stronger, and the other girls DISAPPEAR
entirely.
Lester is suddenly alone in the stands, spellbound.
His POV: Angela looks directly at us now, dancing only for Lester. Her movements take on a
blatantly erotic edge as she starts to unzip her uniform, teasing us with an expression that's both
innocent and knowing, then... she pulls her uniform OPEN and a profusion of RED ROSE PETALS
spill forth... and we SMASH CUT TO:
INT. HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUM - CONTINUOUS
Angela, fully clothed, is once again surrounded by the other girls. The HIGH SCHOOL BAND plays
its last note, the Dancing Spartanettes strike their final pose, and the audience APPLAUDS.
Carolyn claps along with the rest of the audience. Lester just sits there, unable to take his eyes off
Angela.
EXT. HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUM - LATER
The game is long over. Jane and Angela come out of the gym.
JANE
Oh shit, they're still here.
Her POV: Lester and Carolyn stand at the edge of the parking lot.
LESTER
Janie!
CAROLYN
Hi! I really enjoyed that!
She crosses reluctantly toward her parents, followed by Angela.
LESTER
Congratulations, honey, you were great.
JANE
I didn't win anything.
LESTER
(to Angela)
Hi, I'm Lester. Janie's dad.
ANGELA
Oh. Hi.
An awkward beat.
JANE
This is my friend, Angela Hayes.
LESTER
Okay, good to meet you. You were also good tonight. Very... precise.
ANGELA
(warming)
Thanks.
CAROLYN
(to Angela)
Nice to meet you, Angela.
(to Jane)
Honey, I'm so proud of you. I watched you very closely, and you didn't screw up once.
(then, to Lester)
Okay, we have to go.
She starts toward the parking lot. Lester stays behind.
LESTER
So, what are you girls doing now?
JANE
Dad.
ANGELA
We're going out for pizza.
LESTER
Oh really, do you need a ride? We can give you a ride. I have a car. You wanna come with us?
ANGELA
Thanks... but I have a car.
LESTER
Oh, you have a car. Oh. That's great! That's great, because Janie's thinking about getting a car soon
too, aren't you, honey?
JANE
(you freak)
Dad. Mom's waiting for you.
LESTER
Well, it was very nice meeting you, Angela. Any, uh, friend of Janie's is a friend of mine.
Angela smiles, aware of the power she has over him. He is mesmerized; grateful, even.
LESTER (cont'd)
Well... I'll be seeing you around then.
Lester waves awkwardly as he crosses off.
JANE
Could he be any more pathetic?
ANGELA
I think it's sweet. And I think he and your mother have not had sex in a long time.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - A FEW HOURS LATER
CLOSE on a solitary red ROSE PETAL as it falls slowly through the air.
We're looking down on Lester and Carolyn in bed. Even in sleep, Carolyn looks determined. Lester
is awake and stares up at us.
LESTER
It's the weirdest thing.
The ROSE PETAL drifts into view, landing on his pillow.
LESTER (cont'd)
I feel like I've been in a coma for about twenty years, and I'm just now waking up.
More ROSE PETALS fall onto the bed, and he smiles up at...
His POV: Angela, naked, FLOATS above us as a deluge of ROSE PETALS falls around her. Her
hair fans out around her head and GLOWS with a subtle, burnished light. She looks down at us with
a smile that is all things...
Lester smiles back and LAUGHS, as ROSE PETALS cover his face.
LESTER (cont'd)
Spec-tac-ular.
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - CONTINUOUS
A WHITE BMW 328si CONVERTIBLE is parked on the street outside the Burnham's house. We
HEAR girlish LAUGHTER from inside.
INT. ANGELA'S BMW - CONTINUOUS
Angela is behind the wheel, Jane in the passenger seat. They're passing a JOINT back and forth.
JANE
I'm sorry my dad was so weird tonight.
ANGELA
It's okay. I'm used to guys drooling over me. It started when I was about twelve, I'd go out to dinner
with my parents. Every Thursday night, Red Lobster. And every guy there would stare at me when I
walked in. And I knew what they were thinking. Just like I knew guys at school thought about me
when they jerked off.
JANE
Vomit.
ANGELA
No, I liked it. And I still like it. If people I don't even know look at me and want to fuck me, it means
I really have a shot at being a model. Which is great, because there's nothing worse in life than being
ordinary.
An awkward beat. Jane stares at the floor.
JANE
I really think it'll happen for you.
ANGELA
Oh, I know. Because everything that was meant to happen, does. Eventually.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
On VIDEO: Jane gets out of the car, still LAUGHING, and waves as Angela pulls away. We
ZOOM toward Jane as she walks up the driveway. She turns suddenly, sensing our presence.
Her POV: We're looking at the COLONIAL HOUSE next door where the moving van was parked
earlier. The front porch is shrouded in darkness... then a PORCH LIGHT abruptly reveals Ricky. As
usual, he's dressed conservatively. There is a BEEPER attached to his belt, and his DIGICAM
dangles loosely around his neck.
Irritated, Jane stares at him, hard.
JANE
Asshole.
He looks back at her curiously, then raises his Digicam and starts to videotape her.
His POV, on VIDEO: Jane, angry and self-conscious, turns and walks quickly toward her house,
flipping us off as she goes.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FOYER - CONTINUOUS
Jane enters, closes and locks the door. She quickly TURNS OFF THE LIGHT that's been left on for
her, then peeks through a window.
Her POV: There's no sign of Ricky.
Jane turns back into the room, her heart racing... and smiles.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S BEDROOM - THE NEXT MORNING
CLOSE on an ADDRESS BOOK: A man's hand flips to the H page and then his finger stops at the
name Angela Hayes.
Lester, dressed for work, goes through Jane's address book. We HEAR the SHOWER running in the
adjacent bathroom. He grabs Jane's phone and dials, then stands with the receiver to his ear, nervous.
ANGELA
(over phone line)
Hello? Hello?
Lester is frozen, unable to speak. Suddenly, the SHOWER is turned off in the next room. Lester
hangs up and exits quickly. A moment, then the PHONE RINGS. Jane emerges from the bathroom, a
towel wrapped around her torso, drying her wet hair. She picks up the PHONE.
JANE
Hello?
INT. HAYES HOUSE - ANGELA'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Angela is sprawled across her bed, on the phone.
ANGELA
Why'd you call me?
INTERCUT WITH JANE IN HER BEDROOM:
JANE
I didn't.
ANGELA
Well, my phone just rang and I answered it and somebody hung up and then I star sixty-nined and it
called you back.
JANE
I was in the shower.
Then Jane notices her address book open to the H page.
JANE (cont'd)
Oh, gross.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
On VIDEO: We're across from Jane's WINDOW, looking in. Jane picks up the address book,
frowning. She speaks into the phone, but we can't hear her.
WOMAN'S VOICE (O.C.)
(sing song)
Rick-y! Break-fast!
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky stands at his window, videotaping. He lowers his Digicam, but his eyes remain locked on Jane
across the way.
RICKY
Be right there.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
BARBARA FITTS stands at the stove, flipping bacon strips mechanically, her eyes focused
elsewhere. At least ten years younger than her husband, she's pretty in a June Cleaver-ish way. The
Colonel sits at a dinette reading The Wall Street Journal. Ricky enters.
RICKY
Mom.
Startled, Barbara turns to him.
BARBARA
Hello.
As she attempts to serve him bacon:
RICKY
I don't eat bacon, remember?
BARBARA
(unnerved)
I'm sorry, I must have forgotten.
Ricky serves himself scrambled eggs from another pan, then joins his father at the table.
RICKY
What's new in the world, Dad?
COLONEL
This country is going straight to hell.
A DOORBELL rings. The Colonel and Barbara look at each other, alarmed.
COLONEL (cont'd)
Are you expecting anyone?
BARBARA
No.
(thinks)
No.
The Colonel heads toward the living room, a little puffed up.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - FOYER - MOMENTS LATER
The Colonel opens the front door to reveal the two JIMS.
JIM #1
Hi.
JIM #2
Welcome to the neighborhood.
Jim #1 holds out a basket filled with flowers, vegetables and a small white cardboard box tied with
raffia.
JIM #1
Just a little something from our garden.
JIM #2
Except for the pasta, we got that at Fallaci's.
JIM #1
It's unbelievably fresh. You just drop it in the water and it's done.
The Colonel stares at them, suspicious.
JIM #1 (cont'd)
(offers his hand)
Jim Olmeyer. Two doors down. Welcome to the neighborhood.
COLONEL
(shakes)
Colonel Frank Fitts, U.S. Marine Corps.
JIM #1
Nice to meet you. And this is my partner...
JIM #2
(offers his hand)
Jim Berkley, but people call me J.B.
COLONEL
Let's cut to the chase, okay? What are you guys selling?
JIM #2
(after a beat)
Nothing. We just wanted to say hi to our new neighbors--
COLONEL
Yeah, yeah, yeah. But you said you're partners. So what's your business?
The Jims look at each other, then back at the Colonel.
JIM #1
Well, he's a tax attorney.
JIM #2
And he's an anesthesiologist.
The Colonel looks at them, confused. Then it dawns on him.
INT. COLONEL'S FORD EXPLORER - LATER
The Colonel drives, staring darkly at the road ahead. In the passenger seat, Ricky is using a
CALCULATOR and jotting numbers down in a NOTEBOOK.
COLONEL
How come these faggots always have to rub it in your face? How can they be so shameless?
RICKY
That's the whole thing, Dad. They don't feel like it's anything to be ashamed of.
The Colonel looks at Ricky sharply.
COLONEL
Well, it is.
A beat, as Ricky continues his calculations, before he realizes a response is expected from him.
Then:
RICKY
Yeah, you're right.
The Colonel's eyes flash angrily.
COLONEL
Don't placate me like I'm your mother, boy.
Ricky sighs, then looks at his father.
RICKY
Forgive me, sir, for speaking so bluntly, but those fags make me want to puke my fucking guts out.
The Colonel is taken aback but quickly covers.
COLONEL
Me too, son. Me too.
Case closed, Ricky goes back to his calculations.
CLOSE on the pencil in his hands: He's totaling two columns of NUMBERS. Under the column
"Income" he writes in swift, bold strokes: $24,950.00.
EXT. HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS - A SHORT TIME LATER
Jane and Angela are standing with two other TEENAGE GIRLS.
ANGELA
I'm serious, he just pulled down his pants and yanked it out. You know, like, say hello to Mr. Happy.
TEENAGE GIRL #1
Gross.
ANGELA
It wasn't gross. It was kind of cool.
TEENAGE GIRL #1
So, did you do it with him?
ANGELA
Of course I did. He is a really well-known photographer? He shoots for Elle on like, a regular basis?
It would have been so majorly stupid of me to turn him down.
TEENAGE GIRL #2
You are a total prostitute.
ANGELA
Hey. That's how things really are. You just don't know, because you're this pampered little suburban
chick.
TEENAGE GIRL #2
So are you. You've only been in Seventeen once, and you looked fat, so stop acting like you're
goddamn Christy Turlington.
The two TEENAGE GIRLS move away from Jane and Angela.
ANGELA
(calling off)
Cunt!
(then)
I am so sick of people taking their insecurities out on me.
The Colonel's Ford Explorer pulls up, and Ricky gets out.
JANE
Oh my God. That's the pervert who filmed me last night.
ANGELA
Him? Jane. No way. He's a total lunatic.
JANE
You know him?
ANGELA
Yeah. We were on the same lunch shift when I was in ninth grade, and he would always say the most
random, weird things, and then one day, he was just like, gone. And then, Connie Cardullo told me
he his parents had to put him in a mental institution.
JANE
Why? What did he do?
ANGELA
What do you mean?
JANE
Well, they can't put you away just for saying weird things.
Angela stares at Jane, then her mouth widens into a smile.
ANGELA
You total slut. You've got a crush on him.
JANE
What? Please.
ANGELA
You were defending him! You love him. You want to have like, ten thousand of his babies.
JANE
Shut up.
Jane suddenly finds Ricky standing in front of her.
RICKY
Hi. My name's Ricky. I just moved next door to you.
JANE
I know. I kinda remember this really creepy incident when you were filming me last night?
RICKY
I didn't mean to scare you. I just think you're interesting.
Angela shoots a wide-eyed look at Jane, who ignores it.
JANE
Thanks, but I really don't need to have some psycho obsessing about me right now.
RICKY
I'm not obsessing. I'm just curious.
He looks at her intently, his eyes searching hers. Jane is unnerved and has to look away. Ricky
smiles and walks off.
ANGELA
What a freak. And why does he dress like a Bible salesman?
JANE
He's like, so confident. That can't be real.
ANGELA
I don't believe him. I mean, he didn't even like, look at me once.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - DEN - THAT NIGHT
CLOSE on a TV SCREEN: "Hogan's Heroes" on Nick at Nite.
The Colonel and Barbara are seated on a couch, watching television. The Colonel is smiling,
enjoying the show; Barbara just stares. The Colonel CHUCKLES at a joke and startles her.
We HEAR a door opening elsewhere in the house, and Ricky enters.
RICKY
Hey.
He sits on the couch, next to his father, and watches TV along with them. The Colonel's smile fades.
BARBARA
(out of the blue)
I'm sorry, what?
RICKY
Mom. Nobody said anything.
BARBARA
Oh. I'm sorry.
The three of them stare at the TV, like strangers in an airport.
INT. HOTEL BALLROOM - NIGHT
We HEAR MUSIC under a room full of people all talking at once, as Lester and Carolyn enter a
hotel ballroom. We FOLLOW THEM as they pass a SIGN that reads:
GREATER ROCKWELL REALTOR RESOURCES GROUP
CAROLYN
--everyone here is with their spouse or their significant other. How would it look if I showed up with
no one?
LESTER
Well, you always end up ignoring me and going off--
Inside the ballroom, well-dressed real estate professionals stand in clumps, chatting. Catering waiters
serve hors d'eouvres.
CAROLYN
Now listen to me. This is an important business function. As you know, my business is selling an
image. And part of my job is to live that image--
LESTER
Just say whatever you want to say and spare me the propaganda.
CAROLYN
(spots someone)
Hi, Shirley!
(to Lester)
Listen, just do me a favor. Act happy tonight?
LESTER
(grins stupidly)
I am happy, honey.
Carolyn's jaw tightens, then:
CAROLYN
(spots someone)
Oh! Buddy!
She drags Lester toward a silver-haired MAN and his much younger WIFE. We recognize the Man
as BUDDY KANE, The Real Estate King.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
(shakes Buddy's hand)
Buddy! Buddy. Hi! Good to see you again.
BUDDY
It's so good to see you too, Catherine.
CAROLYN
Carolyn.
BUDDY
Carolyn! Of course. How are you?
CAROLYN
Very well, thank you.
(to his wife)
Hello, Christy.
CHRISTY
Hello.
CAROLYN
My husband, Lester--
BUDDY
(shakes Lester's hand)
It's a pleasure.
LESTER
Oh, we've met before, actually. This thing last year. Or the Christmas thing at the Sheraton.
BUDDY
Oh, yes.
LESTER
It's okay. I wouldn't remember me either.
He LAUGHS. A little too loudly. Carolyn quickly joins in.
CAROLYN
(forced gaiety)
Honey. Don't be weird.
She smiles her most winning smile at him. He knows this persona well, only it's never pissed him off
as much as it does right now.
LESTER
All right, honey. I won't be weird.
(his face close to hers)
I'll be whatever you want me to be.
And he kisses her--a soft, warm kiss that speaks unmistakably of sex--then turns to the others and
grins.
LESTER (cont'd)
We have a very healthy relationship.
BUDDY
I see.
Carolyn's smile is frozen on her face.
LESTER
Well. I don't know about you, but I need a drink.
He crosses off. Carolyn, Buddy and Christy watch him go.
INT. HOTEL BALLROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Lester stands at the bar. A bartender pours him a drink.
LESTER
Whoa. Put a little more in there, cowboy.
The bartender complies. Lester takes his drink and turns to face the center of the room.
His POV: Carolyn is talking to Buddy and Christy. She's on: smiling, animated, LAUGHING too
loud at their jokes.
Lester shakes his head. Ricky approaches him, wearing a waiter's uniform, carrying a tray of empty
glasses.
RICKY
Excuse me. Don't you live on Robin Hood Trail? The house with the red door?
LESTER
(suspicious)
Yeah.
RICKY
I'm Ricky Fitts. I just moved into the house next to you.
LESTER
Oh. Hi, Ricky Fitts. I'm Lester Burnham.
RICKY
Hi, Lester Burnham.
A beat. Lester looks away, scans the crowd, then downs the rest of his drink in one gulp. Ricky just
stands there, watching him. Finally Lester turns back to Ricky: what does this kid want?
RICKY (cont'd)
Do you party?
LESTER
Excuse me?
RICKY
Do you get high?
Lester's surprised, but instantly intrigued.
INT. HOTEL BALLROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Carolyn and Buddy are deep in conversation. Christy has wandered off. Carolyn is nervous; Buddy
seems amused.
CAROLYN
You know, I probably wouldn't even tell you this if I weren't a little tipsy, but... I am in complete
awe of you. I mean, your firm is, hands down, the Rolls Royce of local Real Estate firms, and your
personal sales record is, is, is very intimidating. You know, I'd love to sit down with you and just
pick your brain, if you'd ever be willing. I suppose, technically, I'm the "competition," but... I mean,
hey, I don't flatter myself that I'm even in the same league as you...
BUDDY
I'd love to.
CAROLYN
(shocked)
Really?
BUDDY
Absolutely. Call my secretary and have her schedule a lunch.
CAROLYN
I'll do that. Thank you.
They look at each other for a beat, then look away. This situation is loaded and they both know it.
EXT. HOTEL - LATER
Ricky and Lester stand next to a dumpster behind the service entrance to the hotel, smoking a
JOINT.
LESTER
...did you ever see that movie, where the body's walking around holding its own head? And then the
head goes down on that babe?
RICKY
Re-Animator.
Suddenly, the service entrance opens, and a large CATERING BOSS in a cheap suit peers out at
them. Ricky hides the joint.
CATERING BOSS
(to Ricky)
Look. I'm not paying you to...
(eyes Lester, suspiciously)
...do whatever it is you're doing out here.
RICKY
Fine. So don't pay me.
CATERING BOSS
Excuse me?
RICKY
I quit. So you don't have to pay me. Now, leave me alone.
CATERING BOSS
Asshole.
He goes back inside. Lester looks at Ricky, who shrugs.
LESTER
I think you just became my personal hero.
(then)
Doesn't that make you nervous, just quitting your job like that? Well, I guess when you're all of,
what? Sixteen?
RICKY
Eighteen.
(then)
I just do these gigs as a cover. I have other sources of income. But my dad interferes less in my life
when I pretend to be an upstanding young citizen with a respectable job.
CAROLYN (O.C.)
Lester?
Carolyn is standing in the open service entrance. Lester quickly hides the joint behind his back.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
What are you doing?
LESTER
Honey, this is...
(laughs)
Ricky Fitts. This is Ricky Fitts.
RICKY
I'm Ricky Fitts, I just moved in the house next to you. I go to school with your daughter.
LESTER
With Jane? Really?
RICKY
Yeah. Jane.
CAROLYN
Hi.
(then, to Lester)
I'm ready to go. I'll meet you out front.
And she goes back inside.
LESTER
Uh-oh. I'm in trouble. Nice meeting you, Ricky Fitts. Thanks for the, uh, thing.
RICKY
Any time.
Lester goes inside.
RICKY (cont'd)
(calls after him)
Lester. If you want any more, you know where I live.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FAMILY ROOM - LATER
Jane and Angela are watching MTV. We HEAR the back door open.
JANE
Oh, shit. They're home. Quick, let's go up to my room.
Jane switches off the TV.
ANGELA
I should say hi to your dad.
(off Jane's look)
I don't want to be rude.
She starts toward the kitchen. Jane doesn't like this.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
Lester enters and opens the refrigerator.
ANGELA (O.C.)
Nice suit.
He turns, and is instantly transfixed by:
His POV: Angela leans against the counter, twirling her hair.
ANGELA (cont'd)
You're looking good, Mr. Burnham.
She starts toward him.
ANGELA (cont'd)
Last time I saw you, you looked kind of wound up.
(spots something)
Ooh, is that root beer?
She reaches inside the refrigerator to grab a bottle. As she does, she moves to place her other hand
casually on Lester's shoulder. He sees it coming. Everything SLOWS DOWN, and all sound
FADES...
EXTREME CLOSE UP on her hand as it briefly touches his shoulder in SLOW MOTION. We
HEAR only the amplified BRUSH of her fingers against the fabric of his suit, and its unnatural,
hollow ECHO...
BACK IN REAL TIME: She grabs the root beer and smiles at him.
CLOSE on Lester: his eyes narrow slightly, then:
He cups her face in his hands and kisses her. She seems shocked, but doesn't resist as he pulls her
toward him with surprising strength. He breaks the kiss, looking at her in awe, then he reaches up
and touches his lips. His eyes widen as he pulls a ROSE PETAL from his mouth right before we
SMASH CUT TO:
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
Angela is back against the counter, drinking the root beer. Lester stands by the refrigerator, gazing at
her, still lost in fantasy.
ANGELA
I love root beer, don't you?
Jane watches from the doorway to the family room, feeling incredibly awkward in her own home.
Carolyn enters from the dining room. Lester snaps out of it and grabs a root beer from the
refrigerator.
JANE
Mom, you remember Angela.
CAROLYN
(her sales smile)
Yes, of course!
JANE
I forgot to tell you, she's spending the night. Is that okay?
LESTER
Sure!
He takes a sip of his root beer, but it goes down the wrong way and he starts COUGHING violently.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S BEDROOM - LATER THAT NIGHT
Angela lays on the bed, in bra and panties, reading a magazine. Jane, in an oversized T shirt, plays a
video game on her computer.
JANE
I'm sorry about my dad.
ANGELA
Don't be. I think it's funny.
JANE
Yeah, to you, he's just another guy who wants to jump your bones. But to me... he's just too
embarrassing to live.
ANGELA
Your mom's the one who's embarrassing. What a phony.
Jane glances at Angela, irritated.
ANGELA (cont'd)
Your dad's actually kind of cute.
JANE
Shut up.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Lester, still in his suit, stands outside Jane's room, his ear up against the door. He can't believe what
he's hearing.
ANGELA (O.C.)
He is. If he just worked out a little, he'd be hot.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
JANE
Shut up.
ANGELA
Oh, come on. Like you've never sneaked a peek at him in his underwear? I bet he's got a big dick.
JANE
You are so grossing me out right now.
ANGELA
(really enjoying this)
If he built up his chest and arms, I would totally fuck him.
Jane covers her ears and starts SINGING to drown her out.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Lester, still listening, looks like he's about to implode.
ANGELA (O.C.)
(laughs)
I would! I would suck your dad's big fat dick, and then I would fuck him 'til his eyes rolled back in
his head!
(then)
What was that noise? Jane.
Jane's SINGING stops.
ANGELA (O.C.) (cont'd)
I swear I heard something.
Panicked, Lester scurries down the hall.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
JANE
Yeah, it was the sound of you being a huge disgusting pig.
ANGELA
I'm serious.
We HEAR the sharp TAP of a penny being thrown against glass.
ANGELA (cont'd)
See?
Angela crosses to the window and looks out.
ANGELA (cont'd)
(spots something)
Oh my God. Jane.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
We see Angela standing at the window in her underwear, looking down at us. Jane joins her and is
immediately unnerved by:
Their POV: In the Burnham's DRIVEWAY, the word "JANE" is spelled out in FIRE.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
ANGELA
It's that psycho next door. Jane, what if he worships you? What if he's got a shrine with pictures of
you surrounded by dead people's heads and stuff?
JANE
Shit. I bet he's filming us right now.
ANGELA
(intrigued)
Really?
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
On VIDEO: We're across from Jane's window, looking in. Jane tries to shut the drapes, but Angela
won't let her. Irritated, Jane retreats into the room. We ZOOM toward her, even as Angela poses in
the window; we're clearly not interested in Angela. The ZOOM continues, searching for Jane, who
has disappeared. Finally, we settle on the small make-up MIRROR where we see a REFLECTION
of Jane, back at her computer. She's smiling. Then suddenly the DRAPES CLOSE and she's gone.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky sits in darkness with his DIGICAM, videotaping. He lowers the camera and smiles... then
something below catches his attention. He leans out the window to get a better look at:
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Ricky's POV: Through a WINDOW on the side of the Burnham's GARAGE DOOR, we see Lester,
still in his suit, digging through shelves against the back wall.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Lester digs through stuff stored on the shelves, searching for something as if his very life depended
on it.
LESTER
Shit. Shit!
He yanks aside COLLEGE YEARBOOKS, a racquetball RACQUET, boxes of old HOT ROD
MAGAZINES, an unopened remote-controlled MODEL JEEP KIT, stacks of old vinyl LPs... finally
his face lights up when he finds:
A pair of DUMBBELLS obviously unused for many years.
Lester rips off his jacket and tie and unbuttons his shirt. He glances around, finding his
REFLECTION in the WINDOW as he pulls off his shirt, then the T-shirt underneath. He eyes
himself critically: Angela was right, he's not in bad shape. Just a few extra pounds around his middle
that wouldn't be hard to shed. He kicks off his shoes and begins to step out of his pants.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky holds his Digicam up and starts to videotape.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Ricky's POV, on VIDEO: Through a WINDOW on the side of the Burnham's garage, we see Lester
step out of his pants and briefs. Then, naked except for his black socks, he grabs the dumbbells and
starts lifting them, watching his reflection in the window as he does.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky stands at the window, videotaping.
RICKY
Welcome to America's Weirdest Home Videos.
Suddenly we HEAR someone trying to open a locked door.
COLONEL (O.C.)
Ricky!
Moving swiftly, Ricky pulls the drapes shut and switches on a light. His room is a haven of hightech.
A state-of-the-art multimedia COMPUTER crowds his desk, and high-end STEREO and
VIDEO EQUIPMENT line the shelves, as well as HUNDREDS OF CDs. There is easily twenty
thousand dollars worth of equipment in this room.
RICKY
Coming, Dad.
COLONEL (O.C.)
You know I don't like locked doors in my house, boy.
Ricky opens the door. The Colonel stands outside, eyeing him.
RICKY
I'm sorry, I must have locked it by accident. So what's up?
The Colonel holds out a small PLASTIC CUP WITH A CAP.
COLONEL
I need a urine sample.
RICKY
Wow. It's been six months already. Can I give it to you in the morning? I just took a whiz.
COLONEL
Yeah, I suppose.
(an awkward beat)
Well. Good night, son.
He disappears down the hall. Ricky smiles, shuts and locks his door. He puts the plastic cup on the
shelf, then crosses to a MINI REFRIGERATOR in the corner of his room and takes out a cup-sized
TUPPERWARE CONTAINER from the freezer, already filled with urine, albeit frozen, and places it
on a saucer to thaw overnight.
INT BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - LATER THAT NIGHT
Carolyn lies sleeping. Lester is awake, staring at the ceiling. After a moment, he gets up, taking care
not to disturb Carolyn, and walks toward the bathroom.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BATH - CONTINUOUS
Lester enters and switches on the LIGHT. The room is filled with STEAM. Lester looks around,
confused, then focuses on:
His POV: Across from us, in a PEDESTAL BATHTUB, is Angela. She smiles and beckons us, and
we MOVE CLOSER. ROSE PETALS float on the surface of the water, obscuring her naked body.
ANGELA
I've been waiting for you.
Lester kneels by the bathtub like a man in church.
ANGELA (cont'd)
You've been working out, haven't you? I can tell.
She arches her back and looks up at him provocatively.
ANGELA (cont'd)
I was hoping you'd give me a bath... I'm very, very dirty.
Lester gives her a hard look, then slowly slips his hand into the water between her legs. Her eyes
widen and she throws her head back... and we SMASH CUT TO:
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
CLOSE on Carolyn, her eyes wide, listening to the rhythmic BRUSH of Lester's hand as he
masturbates under the covers.
She flips over and faces him.
CAROLYN
What are you doing?
A beat.
LESTER
Nothing.
Carolyn switches on the bedside LIGHT.
CAROLYN
You were masturbating.
LESTER
I was not.
CAROLYN
Yes, you were.
He turns to her, trying to look innocent, then gives up.
LESTER
All right, so shoot me. I was whacking off.
Carolyn gets out of bed, repelled. Lester LAUGHS.
LESTER (cont'd)
That's right. I was choking the bishop. Shaving the carrot. Saying hi to my monster.
CAROLYN
That's disgusting.
LESTER
Well, excuse me, but I still have blood pumping through my veins!
CAROLYN
So do I!
LESTER
Really? I'm the only one who seems to be doing anything about it.
CAROLYN
Lester. I refuse to live like this. This is not a marriage.
LESTER
This hasn't been a marriage for years. But you were happy as long as I kept my mouth shut. Well,
guess what? I've changed. And the new me whacks off when he feels horny, because you're
obviously not going to help me out in that department.
CAROLYN
Oh. I see. You think you're the only one who's sexually frustrated?
LESTER
I'm not? Well then, come on, baby! I'm ready.
CAROLYN
(furious)
Do not mess with me, mister, or I will divorce you so fast it'll make your head spin!
LESTER
On what grounds? I'm not a drunk, I don't fuck other women, I don't mistreat you, I've never hit you,
or even tried to touch you since you made it so abundantly clear just how unnecessary you consider
me to be. But. I did support you while you got your license. And some people might think that
entitles me to half of what's yours.
She sinks into a chair, stunned. It's clear he knows where she's most vulnerable. He sees this, and
likes it; it feels good to win for a change. He curls up under the covers contentedly.
LESTER (cont'd)
Turn out the light when you come to bed, okay?
CLOSE on Lester, smiling.
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - EARLY MORNING
We're FLYING high above the neighborhood. Below us we see the two Jims, jogging. We
APPROACH them steadily.
LESTER
It's a great thing when you realize you still have the ability to surprise yourself. Makes you wonder
what else you can do that you've forgotten about.
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - CONTINUOUS
We're now at street level, FOLLOWING the two Jims.
LESTER
Hey! You guys!
Still running, the Jims turn back in perfect unison, as Lester runs INTO FRAME, wearing a baggy
sweatshirt and a pair of faded old sweatpants. The Jims slow down until he catches up, then the three
men run together in the early morning light.
JIM #2
Lester, I didn't know you ran.
LESTER
(panting)
Well, I just started.
JIM #1
Good for you.
LESTER
I figured you guys might be able to give me some pointers. I need to shape up. Fast.
JIM #1
Well, are you just looking to lose weight, or do you want have increased strength and flexibility as
well?
LESTER
I want to look good naked.
EXT. FITTS HOUSE - A SHORT TIME LATER
The Colonel is washing his Ford Explorer, squatting to scrub the bumper, when something Catches
his eye:
His POV: Lester and the Jims jog down the street.
The Colonel stands, scowling, as Ricky comes out of the house, holding the URINE SAMPLE in
front of him.
COLONEL
What is this, the fucking gay pride parade?
Lester breaks off from the two Jims and jogs up to Ricky and the Colonel, out of breath. He grabs
hold of his knees and bends over, panting.
LESTER
Hey! Yo! Ricky!
(re: the Jims)
My entire life is passing before my eyes, and those two have barely broken a sweat.
He LAUGHS, and extends his hand to the Colonel.
LESTER (cont'd)
Sorry, hi. Lester Burnham, I live next door. We haven't met.
COLONEL
(shakes)
COLONEL Frank Fitts, U.S. Marine Corps.
LESTER
Whoa. Welcome to the neighborhood, sir.
He salutes the Colonel good-naturedly, grinning. The Colonel doesn't think it's funny. An awkward
beat.
LESTER (cont'd)
So, Ricky, uh, I was thinking about the, uh... I was gonna... the movie we talked about...
RICKY
(quickly)
Re-Animator.
LESTER
Yeah!
RICKY
You want to borrow it?
(before Lester can answer)
Okay, it's up in my room. Come on.
He heads into the house. Lester waves at the Colonel, then follows him. The Colonel watches them
go, his eyes dark.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Ricky enters, followed by Lester.
RICKY
Can you hold this for a sec?
LESTER
Sure.
He gives the URINE SPECIMEN to Lester, then locks the door.
RICKY
I don't think my dad would try to come in when somebody else is here, but you never know.
Ricky crosses to a bureau and opens a DRAWER. He takes clothing out and piles it on his bed.
LESTER
(re: urine sample)
What is this?
RICKY
Urine. I have to take a drug test every six months to make sure I'm clean.
LESTER
Are you kidding? You just smoked with me last night.
RICKY
It's not mine. One of my clients is a nurse in a pediatrician's office. I cut her a deal, she keeps me in
clean piss.
Lester picks up a CD case from a shelf and examines it.
LESTER
You like Pink Floyd?
RICKY
I like a lot of music.
LESTER
Man, I haven't listened to this album in years.
He shakes his head, then puts the CD case down. Ricky, having emptied the drawer, now removes a
FALSE BOTTOM, revealing rows of MARIJUANA, tightly packed in ZIP-LOC BAGS.
RICKY
How much do you want?
LESTER
I don't know, it's been a while. How much is an ounce?
RICKY
(indicates bag)
Well, this is totally decent, and it's three hundred.
LESTER
Wow.
RICKY
(indicates another bag)
But this shit is top of the line. It's called G-13. Genetically engineered by the U.S. Government.
Extremely potent. But a completely mellow high, no paranoia.
LESTER
Is that what we smoked last night?
RICKY
This is all I ever smoke.
LESTER
How much?
RICKY
Two grand.
LESTER
Jesus. Things have changed since 1973.
RICKY
You don't have to pay now. I know you're good for it.
A beat.
LESTER
Thanks.
RICKY
(hands him a bag)
There's a card in there with my beeper number, call me anytime day or night. And I only accept cash.
LESTER
(looks around room)
Well, now I know how you can afford all this equipment. When I was your age, I flipped burgers all
summer just to be able to buy an eight track.
RICKY
That sucks.
LESTER
No actually, it was great. All I did was party and get laid.
(smiles)
I had my whole life ahead of me...
RICKY
My dad thinks I pay for all this with catering jobs.
(off Lester's look)
Never underestimate the power of denial.
Lester smiles. This kid's cool.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - LATER
Carolyn, carrying a basket of fresh cut ROSES, passes by the GARAGE WINDOW. From inside the
garage, we HEAR ROCK MUSIC.
Carolyn stops and SNIFFS the air, frowning. She peers through the window.
Her POV: Lester, in a T-shirt and gym shorts, lies on a new WEIGHT BENCH, doing bench presses
with shiny new BARBELLS.
INT. GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
ROCK MUSIC blasts from a new BOOMBOX on the floor.
The garage is in the process of becoming Lester's sanctuary. An ugly but comfortable 70's BOWL
CHAIR has been pulled out and cleaned off, his old hot rod magazines strewn across it, and the
remote-controlled MODEL JEEP KIT is spread across a card table. The SHELVES that Lester tore
through earlier have been dismantled, leaving a blank wall on which now hangs a DART BOARD.
Lester finishes his last rep, straining, then puts the weights in their rack and sits up. As he takes a
drag off a joint, the GARAGE DOOR suddenly starts to open. Lester looks up, squinting at:
His POV: The door raises to reveal Carolyn, silhouetted against the bright sunlight outside, pointing
a REMOTE at us.
LESTER
Uh-oh, mom's mad.
CAROLYN
What the hell do you think you're doing?
LESTER
Bench presses. I'm going to wail on my pecs, and then I'm going to do my back.
CAROLYN
I see you're smoking pot now. I'm so glad. I think using illegal psychotropic substances is a very
positive example to set for our daughter.
LESTER
You're one to talk, you bloodless, money- grubbing freak.
CAROLYN
(hostile)
Lester. You have such hostility in you!
LESTER
Do you mind? I'm trying to work out here.
(then, suggestively)
Unless you want to spot me.
CAROLYN
You will not get away with this. You can be sure of that!
And she's gone. Lester leans back on the bench and grabs the weights.
LESTER
(as he lifts)
That's. What. You. Think.
INT. BRAD'S OFFICE - DAY
Brad is seated behind his desk, reading a document. Lester sits across from him, smiling.
BRAD
(reads)
"...my job consists of basically masking my contempt for the assholes in charge, and, at least once a
day, retiring to the men's room so I can jerk off, while I fantasize about a life that doesn't so closely
resemble hell."
(looks up at Lester)
Well, you obviously have no interest in saving yourself.
LESTER
(laughs)
Brad, for fourteen years I've been a whore for the advertising industry. The only way I could save
myself now is if I start firebombing.
BRAD
Whatever. Management wants you gone by the end of the day.
LESTER
Well, just what sort of severance package is "management" prepared to offer me? Considering the
information I have about our editorial director buying pussy with company money.
A beat.
LESTER (cont'd)
Which I'm sure would interest the I.R.S., since it technically constitutes fraud. And I'm sure that
some of our advertisers and rival publications might like to know about it as well. Not to mention,
Craig's wife.
Brad sighs.
BRAD
What do you want?
LESTER
One year's salary, with benefits.
BRAD
That's not going to happen.
LESTER
Well, what do you say I throw in a little sexual harassment charge to boot?
Brad LAUGHS.
BRAD
Against who?
LESTER
Against you.
Brad stops laughing.
LESTER (cont'd)
Can you prove you didn't offer to save my job if I'd let you blow me?
Brad leans back in his chair, studying Lester.
BRAD
Man. You are one twisted fuck.
LESTER
(standing)
Nope. I'm just an ordinary guy with nothing to lose.
INT. OFFICE BUILDING - MOMENTS LATER
Exhilarated, Lester walks down a corridor, his belongings in a box on his shoulder. He's happier than
he's been in years.
LESTER
Yeah!
INT. RESTAURANT - LATER THAT DAY
Carolyn sits at a table, lost in thought. There are two menus on the table. After a moment, Buddy
Kane, the Real Estate King, joins her. Carolyn immediately becomes warm and gracious.
BUDDY
Carolyn.
CAROLYN
Buddy.
Carolyn smiles, genuinely touched that he remembers her name.
BUDDY
I'm so sorry I kept you waiting. Christy left for New York this morning, and... let's just say things
were very hectic around the house.
CAROLYN
What's she doing in New York?
BUDDY
She's moving there.
(off Carolyn's look)
Yes. We are splitting up.
CAROLYN
Buddy. I'm so sorry.
BUDDY
(bitterly)
Yes, according to her, I'm too focused on my career. As if being driven to succeed is some sort of
character flaw. Well, she certainly knew how to take advantage of the lifestyle my success afforded
her. Oh. Wow.
(then, laughing)
Ah, it's for the best.
CAROLYN
When I saw you two at the party the other night, you seemed perfectly happy.
BUDDY
Well, call me crazy, but it is my philosophy that in order to be successful, one must project an image
of success, at all times.
He smiles, then opens his menu. Carolyn picks hers up mechanically, but continues to stare at him,
enraptured, like a fervent Christian who's just come face to face with Jesus.
EXT. HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS - LATER THAT DAY
Ricky stands with his DIGICAM, videotaping something on the ground at his feet.
On VIDEO: A DEAD BIRD lays on the ground, decomposing.
ANGELA (O.C.)
What are you doing?
On VIDEO: The camera JERKS up to discover Jane and Angela staring at us.
RICKY (O.C.)
I was filming this dead bird.
ANGELA
Why?
RICKY (O.C.)
Because it's beautiful.
On VIDEO: Angela looks at Jane, trying not to laugh.
ANGELA
I think maybe you forgot your medication today, mental boy.
On VIDEO: She falls out of frame as we ZOOM toward Jane.
RICKY (O.C.)
Hi, Jane.
JANE
(uncomfortable)
Look. I want you to stop filming me.
Ricky lowers the Digicam.
RICKY
Okay.
He looks at her, curious, his eyes searching hers. She doesn't look away.
ANGELA
Well, whatever.
(to Jane)
This is boring. Let's go.
JANE
(to Ricky)
Do you need a ride?
ANGELA
(to Jane)
Are you crazy? I don't want to end up hacked to pieces in a dumpster somewhere.
RICKY
It's okay. I'll walk. But thanks.
ANGELA
Yeah, see? He doesn't want to go anyway. C'mon, let's go.
Angela starts off, but Jane doesn't follow. Ricky smiles at her. She almost smiles back, then:
JANE
(calls off to Angela)
I think I'm going to walk, too.
Angela stops and stares at her.
ANGELA
What? Jane, that's like, almost a mile.
EXT. TOP HAT MOTEL - LATER THAT DAY
Carolyn's Mercedes is parked next to a JAGUAR CONVERTIBLE with a VANITY LICENSE
PLATE that reads "R E KING."
INT. TOP HAT MOTEL - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn and Buddy are in the middle of sex.
CAROLYN
Yes! Oh, God! I love it!
BUDDY
You like getting nailed by the king?
CAROLYN
Oh yes! I love it! Fuck me, your majesty!
EXT. STREET - LATER THAT DAY
Lester's TOYOTA CAMRY cruises through the streets. We hear Lester SINGING along to
"AMERICAN WOMAN" on the STEREO.
INT. TOYOTA CAMRY - CONTINUOUS
Lester is driving, smoking a joint.
LESTER
AMERICAN WOMAN, STAY AWAY FROM ME... AMERICAN WOMAN, MAMA LET ME
BE... DON'T COME A HANGIN' AROUND MY DOOR... I DON'T WANT TO SEE YOUR FACE
NO MORE...
EXT. MR. SMILEY'S - CONTINUOUS
Lester continues singing along to "AMERICAN WOMAN," as the Camry pulls into the parking lot
of a FAST FOOD RESTAURANT.
Lester pulls up to the drive-thru speaker box.
DRIVE-THRU GIRL (O.C.)
(over speaker box)
Smile you're at Mr. Smiley's.
Lester turns down the volume on the stereo.
LESTER
What?
DRIVE-THRU GIRL (O.C.)
Would you like to try our new bacon and egg fajita just a dollar twenty-nine for a limited time only.
LESTER
Uh... no. But thank you.
(reading menu)
I'll have a Big Barn Burger, Smiley fries, and an orange soda.
DRIVE-THRU GIRL (O.C.)
Please drive up to the window, thank you.
He pulls the car around to the WINDOW, where a teenage GIRL wearing a headset is waiting.
DRIVE-THRU GIRL (cont'd)
Smile, you're at Mr. Smiley's, that'll be four eighty-nine, please.
Lester pays her. As she hands him his food, he notices a SIGN in the corner of the window that
reads:
NOW TAKING APPLICATIONS
COUNTER GIRL
Would you like some Smiley Sauce?
LESTER
No. No, actually... I'd like to fill out an application.
She stares at him, confused by his age and attire.
COUNTER GIRL
There's not jobs for manager, it's just for counter.
LESTER
Good. I'm looking for the least possible amount of responsibility.
INT. MR. SMILEY'S - A SHORT TIME LATER
Lester sits at a booth with the MANAGER, a greasy kid wearing a white short sleeve shirt and a tie
covered with the Mr. Smiley's logo. He looks over Lester's application, baffled.
MANAGER
I don't think you'd fit in here.
LESTER
I have fast food experience.
MANAGER
Yeah, like twenty years ago.
LESTER
Well, I'm sure there have been amazing technological advances in the industry, but surely you have
some sort of training process. It seems unfair to presume I won't be able to learn.
The Manager sighs and runs a hand through his greasy hair, wondering what he could possibly have
done to deserve this.
INT. TOP HAT MOTEL - LATER THAT DAY
Carolyn and Buddy are in bed, post-sex.
CAROLYN
That was exactly what I needed. The royal treatment, so to speak.
They laugh.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
I was so stressed out.
BUDDY
Know what I do when I feel like that?
CAROLYN
What?
BUDDY
I fire a gun.
Carolyn sits up, eager to learn from the master.
CAROLYN
(intrigued)
Really.
BUDDY
Oh yeah, I go to this little firing range downtown, and I just pop off a few rounds.
CAROLYN
(embarrassed)
I've never fired a gun before.
BUDDY
Oh, you've gotta try it. Nothing makes you feel more powerful.
(smiles seductively)
Well, almost nothing.
Carolyn is quick to pick up her cue and kisses him, ready for another round.
EXT. SUBURBAN STREET - LATER THAT DAY
Ricky and Jane walk along without speaking. He seems comfortable with the silence; she doesn't.
After a beat:
JANE
So how do you like your new house?
RICKY
I like it.
A beat.
JANE
The people who used to live there fed these stray cats, so they were always around, and it drove my
mother nuts. And then she cut down their tree.
An automobile FUNERAL PROCESSION appears and begins to pass them slowly.
RICKY
Have you ever known anybody who died?
JANE
No.
(a beat)
Have you?
RICKY
No, but I did see this homeless woman who froze to death once. Just laying there on the sidewalk.
She looked really sad.
They watch the FUNERAL CARS pass.
RICKY (cont'd)
I got that homeless woman on video.
JANE
Why would you film that?
RICKY
Because it was amazing.
JANE
What was amazing about it?
A beat.
RICKY
When you see something like that, it's like God is looking right at you, just for a second. And if
you're careful, you can look right back.
JANE
And what do you see?
RICKY
Beauty.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Barbara Fitts sits at the kitchen table, staring off into space as if hypnotized. Behind her, Ricky
enters, followed by Jane.
RICKY
Mom, I want you to meet somebody.
(no response)
Mom.
Barbara's eyes flutter and she turns to him slowly.
BARBARA
(pleasant)
Yes?
RICKY
I want you to meet somebody. This is Jane.
JANE
Hi.
BARBARA
Oh, my. I apologize for the way things look around here.
Jane glances around. The room is spotless.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - THE COLONEL'S STUDY - MOMENTS LATER
We HEAR KEYS TURNING in the lock, then the door opens and Ricky enters, holding a RING OF
KEYS, followed by Jane.
RICKY
This is where my dad hides out.
GLASS CASES filled with GUNS line the walls.
JANE
I take it he's got a thing for guns.
Ricky crosses to a built-in CABINET behind the desk.
RICKY
You got to see this one thing...
He unlocks the cabinet and opens it, revealing shelves stacked with WAR MEMORABILIA.
RICKY (cont'd)
My dad would kill me if he knew I was in here.
JANE
Did you steal his keys?
RICKY
No. One of my clients is a locksmith. He was short on cash one night, so I let him pay me in trade.
He reaches into the cabinet and carefully removes an oval CHINA PLATTER, which he hands to
Jane. She examines it.
RICKY (cont'd)
Turn it over.
CLOSE on the bottom of the plate: A small SWASTIKA is imprinted in the center.
JANE
Oh my God.
RICKY
It's like official state china of the Third Reich. There's a whole subculture of people who collect this
Nazi shit. But my dad just has this one thing.
He puts the platter back into the cabinet and shuts the door, then notices Jane looking at him oddly.
RICKY (cont'd)
What's wrong?
JANE
Nothing.
RICKY
(concerned)
No, you're scared of me.
JANE
No I'm not.
But she is. Ricky studies her.
RICKY
You want to see the most beautiful thing I've ever filmed?
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
On VIDEO: We're in an empty parking lot on a cold, gray day. Something is floating across from
us... it's an empty, wrinkled, white PLASTIC BAG. We follow it as the wind carries it in a circle
around us, sometimes whipping it about violently, or, without warning, sending it soaring skyward,
then letting it float gracefully down to the ground...
Jane and Ricky sit on the bed, watching his WIDE-SCREEN TV.
RICKY
It was one of those days when it's a minute away from snowing. And there's this electricity in the air,
you can almost hear it, right? And this bag was just... dancing with me. Like a little kid begging me
to play with it. For fifteen minutes. That's the day I realized that there was this entire life behind
things, and this incredibly benevolent force that wanted me to know there was no reason to be afraid.
Ever.
A beat.
RICKY (cont'd)
Video's a poor excuse, I know. But it helps me remember... I need to remember...
Now Jane is watching him.
RICKY (cont'd)
(distant)
Sometimes there's so much beauty in the world I feel like I can't take it... and my heart is going to
cave in.
After a moment, Jane takes his hand. Then she leans in and kisses him softly on the lips. His eyes
scan hers, curious to see how she reacts to this...
JANE
(suddenly)
Oh my God. What time is it?
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - DINING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Lester sits at the table in sloppy clothes, eating his dinner voraciously and drinking beer from a
bottle. Across from him, Carolyn picks at her food, watching him with contempt. EASYLISTENING
MUSIC plays on the STEREO.
We HEAR the back door SLAM, then Jane enters and quickly takes her seat at the table.
JANE
Sorry I'm late.
CAROLYN
(overly cheerful)
No, no, that's quite all right, dear. Your father and I were just discussing his day at work.
(to Lester)
Why don't you tell our daughter about it, honey?
Jane stares at both her parents, apprehensive. Lester looks at Carolyn darkly, then flashes a "youasked-
for-it" grin.
LESTER
Janie, today I quit my job. And then I told my boss to fuck himself, and then I blackmailed him for
almost sixty thousand dollars. Pass the asparagus.
CAROLYN
Your father seems to think this kind of behavior is something to be proud of.
LESTER
And your mother seems to prefer I go through life like a fucking prisoner while she keeps my dick in
a mason jar under the sink.
CAROLYN
(ashen)
How dare you speak to me that way in front of her? And I marvel that you can be so contemptuous
of me, on the same day that you lose your job!
LESTER
Lose it? I didn't lose it. It's not like, "Oops, where'd my job go?" I quit. Someone pass me the
asparagus.
CAROLYN
Oh! Oh! And I want to thank you for putting me under the added pressure of being the sole
breadwinner now--
LESTER
I already have a job.
CAROLYN
(not stopping)
No, no, don't give a second thought as to who's going to pay the mortgage. We'll just leave it all up
to Carolyn. You mean, you're going to take care of everything now, Carolyn? Yes. I don't mind. I
really don't. You mean, everything? You don't mind having the sole responsibility, your husband
feels he can just quit his job--
LESTER
(overlapping)
Will someone pass me the fucking asparagus?
JANE
(rises)
Okay, I'm not going to be a part of this--
LESTER
(means it)
Sit down.
Jane does so, surprised and intimidated by the power in his voice. Lester gets up, crosses to the other
side of the table to get a PLATE OF ASPARAGUS, then sits again as he serves himself.
LESTER (cont'd)
I'm sick and tired of being treated like I don't exist. You two do whatever you want to do whenever
you want to do it and I don't complain. All I want is the same courtesy--
CAROLYN
(overlapping)
Oh, you don't complain? Oh, excuse me. Excuse me. I must be psychotic then, if you don't complain.
What is this?! Am I locked away in a padded cell somewhere, hallucinating? That's the only
explanation I can think of--
Lester hurls the plate of asparagus against the wall with such force it SHATTERS, frightening
Carolyn and Jane.
LESTER
(casual)
Don't interrupt me, honey.
He goes back to eating his meal, as if nothing unusual has happened. Carolyn sits in her chair,
shivering with rage. Jane just stares at the plate in front of her.
LESTER (cont'd)
Oh, and another thing. From now on, we're going to alternate our dinner music. Because frankly, and
I don't think I'm alone here, I'm really tired of this Lawrence Welk shit.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S BEDROOM - THAT NIGHT
Jane is sitting on her bed. There is a KNOCK at the door.
JANE
Go. Away.
CAROLYN (O.C.)
Honey, please let me in.
Jane rolls her eyes, crosses to the door and lets Carolyn in.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
I wish that you hadn't witnessed that awful scene tonight. But in a way, I'm glad.
JANE
Why, so I could see what freaks you and Dad really are?
CAROLYN
Me?
She stares at Jane, then starts to cry.
JANE
Aw, Christ, Mom.
CAROLYN
(tearful)
No, I'm glad because you're old enough now to learn the most important lesson in life: you cannot
count on anyone except yourself.
(sighs)
You cannot count on anyone except yourself. It's sad, but true, and the sooner you learn it, the better.
JANE
Look, Mom, I really don't feel like having a Kodak moment here, okay?
Carolyn suddenly SLAPS Jane, hard.
CAROLYN
You ungrateful little brat. Just look at everything you have. When I was your age, I lived in a duplex.
We didn't even have our own house.
Embarrassed, she quickly leaves. Jane looks in a mirror and rubs her cheek, then crosses to the
window and looks out.
EXT. FITTS HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Jane's POV: We're across from Ricky's room, looking in. He stands at the window with his
DIGICAM, videotaping us. On the WIDE-SCREEN TV behind him, we see Jane standing in her
window as she looks across at him. She waves. Ricky just keeps videotaping. A beat, then she starts
to take off her shirt.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
We're behind Ricky as he videotapes Jane in her window. She has now removed her shirt. She stands
there in her bra, then reaches behind her back to unhook the bra.
On VIDEO: We ZOOM toward her as she takes off her bra clumsily. She's obviously embarrassed,
but she's gone this far and there's no turning back. She stands there with her breasts exposed, trying
to look defiant, but she's achingly vulnerable...
Suddenly, the door is thrown open and the Colonel enters, incensed. Startled, Ricky turns around. As
soon as his eyes meet his father's, he knows what's up.
COLONEL
You little bastard--
Ricky scrambles to dodge his father, but the Colonel is too fast; he punches Ricky in the face,
knocking him to the floor.
COLONEL (cont'd)
How did you get in there?
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
From her window, Jane watches, pulling the drapes in front of her.
EXT. FITTS HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Jane's POV: In the WINDOW across from us, the Colonel proceeds to give Ricky a serious beating,
punching his face.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky's lip is bleeding, but he maintains a steady gaze at his father during this violence.
COLONEL
(unnerved)
How!? How?! C'mon, get up! Fight back, you little pussy!
RICKY
No, sir. I won't fight you.
The Colonel grabs him by the collar.
COLONEL
How did you get in there?
RICKY
I picked the lock, sir.
COLONEL
What were you looking for? Money? Are you on dope again?
RICKY
No, sir. I wanted to show my girlfriend your Nazi plate.
A beat.
COLONEL
Girlfriend?
RICKY
Yes, sir. She lives next door.
The Colonel glances toward the window.
His POV: In the WINDOW across from us, Jane peeks out from behind the drape. She quickly pulls
it shut.
RICKY (cont'd)
Her name's Jane.
A beat. The Colonel is suddenly, deeply shamed.
COLONEL
This is for your own good, boy. You have no respect for other people's things, for authority, for...
RICKY
Sir, I'm sorry.
COLONEL
You can't just go around doing whatever you feel like, you can't--there are rules in life--
RICKY
Yes, sir.
COLONEL
You need structure, you need discipline--
RICKY
(simultaneous)
Discipline. Yes, sir, thank you for trying to teach me. Don't give up on me, Dad.
The Colonel stands, still breathing heavily. Tenderness fills his face, and he reaches out to touch
Ricky's cheek.
COLONEL
Oh, Ricky...
But something keeps him from doing it.
COLONEL (cont'd)
You stay out of there.
He leaves. Ricky gets up and goes to his bureau. He looks at his reflection in the mirror, calmly takes
a cloth and starts to wipe the blood from his face.
FADE TO BLACK.
In darkness, we HEAR repetitive GUNSHOTS.
FADE IN:
INT. INDOOR FIRING RANGE - ONE MONTH LATER
Carolyn, wearing PROTECTIVE HEADGEAR, is holding a GLOCK 19 AUTOMATIC
REVOLVER with both hands, FIRING it directly at us.
She empties a round and stands there, exhilarated. An ATTENDANT approaches with a new round
of ammunition.
ATTENDANT
(loading gun)
I gotta say, Mrs. Burnham, when you first came here I thought you would be hopeless. But you're a
natural.
CAROLYN
Well, all I know is... I love shooting this gun!
And she starts FIRING again.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - LATER
Bobby Darin sings "DON'T RAIN ON MY PARADE" on the RADIO. Carolyn SINGS along as she
drives. Her face has lost its usual resolute determination; she's actually enjoying herself
spontaneously, and the lack of her usual self-consciousness allows us to see just how beautiful she is.
ANGLE ON the GLOCK 19 sitting on the passenger seat amidst some CDs.
Carolyn takes the gun and holds it at arm's length, admiring it as she continues to SING.
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - CONTINUOUS
The Mercedes turns onto Robin Hood Trail.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn's POV: We turn into the Burnham driveway. A 1970 PONTIAC FIREBIRD with racing
stripes blocks our access to the garage.
CLOSE on Carolyn: She doesn't like having things in her way.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FAMILY ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Lester's REMOTE-CONTROLLED MODEL JEEP is zooming across the floor of the family room,
expertly maneuvering corners and narrowly avoiding crashing.
Lester is sprawled on the couch in his underwear, drinking a BEER and controlling the car. His
working out is beginning to produce results. The room, too, seems changed: sloppier, more lived in.
Carolyn enters through the kitchen, flushed and angry. She just stands there, staring at Lester. After a
moment, he looks up at her.
LESTER
What?
CAROLYN
Ah, whose car is that out front?
LESTER
Mine. 1970 Pontiac Firebird. The car I always wanted and now I have it. I rule!
CAROLYN
Where's the Camry?
LESTER
I traded it in.
CAROLYN
Shouldn't you have consulted me first?
LESTER
Hmm, let me think... No. You never drove it.
(then)
Have you done something different? You look great.
CAROLYN
(brusque)
Where's Jane?
LESTER
Jane not home. We have the whole house to ourselves.
He smiles at her playfully. She stares back, annoyed. It's the same look she had at the beginning,
when he dropped his briefcase, but whatever power that look had is gone. Lester just LAUGHS.
LESTER (cont'd)
Christ, Carolyn. When did you become so... joyless?
CAROLYN
(taken aback)
Joyless?! I am not joyless! There happens to be a lot about me that you don't know, mister smarty
man. There is plenty of joy in my life.
LESTER
(leaning toward her)
Whatever happened to that girl who used to fake seizures at frat parties when she got bored? And
who used to run up to the roof of our first apartment building to flash the traffic helicopters? Have
you totally forgotten about her? Because I haven't.
His face is close to hers, and suddenly the atmosphere is charged. She pulls back automatically, but
it's clear she's drawn to him. He smiles, and moves even closer, holding his beer loosely balanced.
Then, just before their lips meet...
CAROLYN
(barely audible)
Lester. You're going to spill beer on the couch.
She's immediately sorry she said it, but it's too late. His smile fades, and the moment is gone.
LESTER
So what? It's just a couch.
CAROLYN
This is a four thousand dollar sofa upholstered in Italian silk. This is not "just a couch."
LESTER
It's just a couch!
He stands and gestures toward all the things in the room.
LESTER (cont'd)
This isn't life. This is just stuff. And it's become more important to you than living. Well, honey,
that's just nuts.
Carolyn stares at him, on the verge of tears, then turns and walks out of the room before he can see
her cry.
LESTER (cont'd)
(calls after her)
I'm only trying to help you.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
On VIDEO: Jane lays in Ricky's bed, wearing a tank top. She glances at us.
JANE
(shy)
Don't.
We're watching the WIDE-SCREEN TV in Ricky's room.
A CORD leads from the TV to Ricky's DIGICAM. Ricky holds the camera, sitting naked in a chair.
It's been almost a month since his father beat him up, and there are still slight SCARS on his face.
He's aiming his camera at Jane.
RICKY
Why?
JANE
(re: image on TV)
It's weird, watching myself. I don't like how I look.
RICKY
I can't believe you don't know how beautiful you are.
JANE
I'm not going to sit here for that shit.
She gets out of bed, takes his Digicam and focuses it on him. We see his image on the TV as she
videotapes.
JANE (cont'd)
Ha. How does it feel now?
RICKY
Fine.
JANE
You don't feel naked?
RICKY
I am naked.
JANE
You know what I mean.
Jane ZOOMS in on his face, which remains placid.
JANE (cont'd)
Tell me about being in the hospital.
Ricky smiles.
RICKY
When I was fifteen, my dad caught me smoking dope. He totally freaked and decided to send me to
military school. I told you his whole thing about structure and discipline, right?
(laughs)
Well, of course, I got kicked out. Dad and I had this huge fight, and he hit me... and then the next
day at school, some kid made a crack about my haircut, and... I just snapped. I wanted to kill him.
And I would have. Killed him. If they hadn't pulled me off.
(then)
That's when my dad put me in the hospital. Then they drugged me up and left me in there for two
years.
JANE
Wow. You must really hate him.
RICKY
He's not a bad man.
He grabs a half-smoked JOINT from an ashtray and lights it.
JANE
Well... you better believe I'd hate my father if he did something like that to me.
(laughs)
Wait. I do hate my father.
RICKY
Why?
He passes her the joint, then takes the Digicam and focuses it on her. We see her image on the TV as
he videotapes.
JANE
He's a total asshole and he's got this crush on my friend Angela and it's disgusting.
RICKY
You'd rather he had the crush on you?
JANE
Gross, no! But it'd be nice if I was anywhere near as important to him as she is.
(then)
I know you think my dad's harmless, but you're wrong. He's doing massive psychological damage to
me.
RICKY
How?
Jane looks into the camera, a loopy, stoned grin on her face.
JANE
Well, now, I too need structure. A little fucking discipline.
They LAUGH. She lays back on the bed.
JANE (cont'd)
I'm serious, though. How could he not be damaging me? I need a father who's a role model, not some
horny geek-boy who's gonna spray his shorts whenever I bring a girlfriend home from school.
(snorts)
What a lame-o. Somebody really should put him out of his misery.
Her mind wanders for a beat.
RICKY
Want me to kill him for you?
Jane looks at him and sits up.
JANE
Yeah, would you?
RICKY
(smiles)
It'll cost you.
JANE
Well, I've been baby-sitting since I was about ten. I've got almost three thousand dollars. 'Course, I
was saving it up for a boob job.
She stands and sticks out her breasts, then falls back on the bed, LAUGHING.
JANE (cont'd)
But my tits can wait, huh?
RICKY
You know, that's not a very nice thing to do, hiring somebody to kill your dad.
JANE
Well, I guess I'm just not a very nice girl, then, am I?
She smiles dreamily at him. He turns the Digicam off and the TV screen goes BLUE. He lowers the
camera and looks at her intently.
JANE (cont'd)
(suddenly nervous)
You know I'm not serious, right?
RICKY
Of course.
He puts the Digicam down and joins Jane on the bed. A long moment where neither of them speaks.
He caresses her hair, gazing into her eyes.
RICKY (cont'd)
Do you know how lucky we are to have found each other?
FADE TO BLACK.
FADE IN:
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - EARLY MORNING
We're FLYING above Robin Hood Trail. We see the BURNHAM'S HOUSE below us as we
APPROACH it steadily.
LESTER
Remember those posters that said, "Today is the first day of the rest of your life?" Well, that's true of
every day except one.
(a beat)
The day you die.
We're almost on top of the Burnham house now, as Lester, wearing sweatpants and running shoes,
bursts out of the front door and dashes up the driveway.
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - A SHORT TIME LATER
We're now at street level, as Lester runs toward us. He carries a WALKMAN and wears
EARPHONES, and we HEAR ROCK MUSIC as he runs. The endorphins have kicked in, and Lester
grins, reveling in the sheer physical pleasure of his body.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - A SHORT TIME LATER
The blender GRINDS as Lester, still in his sweatpants, makes himself a high-protein shake. He's in
excellent shape; even his posture has changed, and he moves with the confident, easy swagger of an
athlete. Jane watches him blankly from the kitchen table.
Carolyn enters. Lester leans against the counter, drinking his shake directly from the blender pitcher,
eyeing her. He's got a newfound sexual energy that makes her uncomfortable, and he knows it.
Carolyn quickly rinses off her coffee cup, avoiding his eyes, and starts out.
CAROLYN
Jane, hurry up. I've got a very important appointment--
JANE
Mom, is it okay if Angela sleeps over tonight?
Jane looks at Lester to see how he reacts. He doesn't.
CAROLYN
Well, of course, she's always welcome.
(on her way out)
You know, I thought maybe you two had a fight. I haven't seen her around here in a while.
And she's gone. Jane continues staring at her father. Finally, he glances over at her.
LESTER
What?
JANE
(nervous)
I've been too embarrassed to bring her over. Because of you, and the way that you behave.
LESTER
What are you talking about? I've barely even spoken to her.
JANE
(angry)
Dad! You stare at her all the time, like you're drunk! It's disgusting!
LESTER
(angry himself)
You better watch yourself, Janie, or you're going to turn into a real bitch, just like your mother.
Jane is stunned. She quickly rises, trying to get out of the kitchen before she starts crying.
ANGLE on Lester, and the immediate regret in his eyes.
LESTER (cont'd)
(under his breath)
Fuck.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - UPSTAIRS HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
We're outside Ricky's room, MOVING slowly toward the open door, through which we can see
Ricky, standing at his bureau mirror, combing his hair. The scars on his face are almost gone now.
A REVERSE ANGLE reveals the Colonel standing outside the door looking in, watching Ricky with
great tenderness. Then Ricky looks up at him, and the Colonel is suddenly self-conscious.
COLONEL
(brusque)
You ready to go?
RICKY
Oh, I don't need a ride. I'm going to go in with Jane and her mom.
EXT. FITTS HOUSE - FRONT PORCH - MOMENTS LATER
Ricky emerges from the house, followed by the Colonel, who watches his son as he heads toward the
Burnham house.
His POV: Carolyn waves from the Mercedes, flashing an insincere smile. Jane leans forward from
the passenger seat and glares at us. As Ricky starts to get in the car, Lester emerges from the house
in his sweatpants.
LESTER
Yo, Ricky. How's it going?
RICKY
Pretty decent, Mr. Burnham.
Ricky pulls his door shut, but not before Lester mouths "call me" and Ricky gives a slight nod in
acknowledgment.
CLOSE on the Colonel's face: he looks confused.
As the Mercedes backs out of the driveway, Lester glances over at him.
Lester's POV: The Colonel watches the car driving off, then looks at us. His face tightens.
LESTER studies him for a moment, then grins and salutes before going inside the house.
CLOSE on the Colonel, deeply troubled.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
The door swings open silently and the Colonel enters. He starts going through Ricky's bureau. He
opens the DRAWER in which we know Ricky keeps his marijuana, but he doesn't discover its false
bottom. He stands and looks around, his eyes finally landing on:
The DIGICAM and a stack of CASSETTES on a shelf. The camera is still connected to the TV.
The Colonel turns on the TV, examines the Digicam and presses "play." The TV's blank screen
suddenly gives way to...
On VIDEO: Barbara Fitts sits at the kitchen table, staring off into space.
The Colonel watches, at first baffled, then impatient. He takes the cassette out of the Digicam and
inserts another. On the TV screen we see...
On VIDEO: Through the Burnham's GARAGE WINDOW, we see Lester step out of his pants and
briefs. Then, naked except for his black socks, he grabs the dumbbells and starts lifting them,
watching his reflection in the window as he does...
The Colonel sinks slowly onto Ricky's bed, mesmerized.
INT. MR. SMILEY'S - LATER
Lester, wearing a Mr. Smiley's uniform, is happily flipping burgers on a grill.
CO-WORKER
Hey Lester, I need that Super Smiley with cheese, A.S.A.P.
LESTER
You need more than that, my little hombre.
Lester looks up suddenly when he HEARS:
CAROLYN (O.S.)
(over speakers)
What's good here?
BUDDY (O.C.)
(over speakers)
Nothing.
CAROLYN (O.C.)
(over speakers)
Then I guess we'll just have to be bad, won't we?
(then)
I think I'll have a double Smiley Sandwich and curly fries, and a vanilla shake.
BUDDY (O.C.)
(over speakers)
Make that two.
COUNTER GIRL (O.C.)
(over speakers)
Please drive around thank you.
Lester's face darkens, then... he smiles. He puts his spatula down.
EXT. MR. SMILEY'S - CONTINUOUS
The Mercedes pulls around to the DRIVE-THRU WINDOW. Carolyn drives; Buddy sits beside her.
CAROLYN
I think we deserve a little junk food, after the workout we had this morning.
BUDDY
(nuzzles her neck)
I'm flattered.
They are too involved with each other to notice Lester watching them from the drive-thru window.
LESTER
(overly cheerful)
Smile! You're at Mr. Smiley's!
Carolyn almost jumps out of her skin.
Lester leans out of the drive-thru window, grinning at her, holding bags filled with fast food. The
Counter Girl stands next to him, staring blankly.
LESTER (cont'd)
Would you like to try our new beef and cheese pot pie on a stick, just a dollar ninety-nine for a
limited time only?
Carolyn struggles to appear nonchalant.
CAROLYN
(re: Buddy)
We were just at a seminar.
(then, all business)
Buddy, this is my--
LESTER
Her husband. We've met before, but something tells me you're going to remember me this time.
COUNTER GIRL
(to Carolyn)
Whoa. You are so busted.
CAROLYN
(flustered)
You know, this really doesn't concern you.
LESTER
Actually, Janeane is senior drive-thru manager, so you kind of are on her turf.
(to Carolyn, quietly)
So. This makes sense.
CAROLYN
(miserable)
Oh, Lester--
LESTER
Honey, it's okay. I want you to be happy.
(then)
Would you like Smiley Sauce with that?
CAROLYN
Lester, just stop it!
LESTER
Uh-uh. You don't get to tell me what to do. Ever again.
Carolyn closes her eyes, defeated, then grabs the wheel, shifts gears and drives off.
EXT. TOP HAT MOTEL - A SHORT TIME LATER
The sky is filled with ominous gray clouds. Wind whips garbage across the parking lot as Carolyn's
Mercedes pulls in next to Buddy's Jaguar.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn grips the wheel tightly, staring straight ahead. Buddy looks at her unhappily.
BUDDY
I'm sorry. I guess we should cool it for a while. I'm facing a potentially very expensive divorce.
CAROLYN
Oh, no. I understand completely.
(sarcastic)
In order to be successful, one must project an image of success. At all times.
She regrets it the second it's out of her mouth, and turns to him. He just looks at her sadly, then gets
out of the car and shuts the door. She starts to CRY. As before, she SLAPS herself, hard.
CAROLYN (cont'd)
Stop it. Stop it!
She closes her eyes tight, trying to stop the tears, then suddenly SCREAMS as loud as she can.
EXT. TOP HAT MOTEL - CONTINUOUS
Buddy's Jaguar speeds off, leaving the Mercedes alone in the parking lot. We can still HEAR
Carolyn's muffled SCREAMING. There is a sound of distant THUNDER.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - THAT NIGHT
It's RAINING outside. We HEAR ROCK MUSIC as Lester pumps iron. He puts the weights down
and looks at his REFLECTION in the window:
His POV: His arms are pumped. He smiles.
He reaches under the bench and grabs a CIGAR BOX. Opening it, he digs through MARIJUANA
PARAPHERNALIA, only to pull out an empty ZIP-LOC BAG.
LESTER
Shit.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Ricky and the Colonel sit at the table, eating in silence. Barbara rinses off a pan at the sink, then
stares at it as if she can't quite remember what she meant to do with it. We suddenly HEAR a
BEEPING noise. Ricky pulls his BEEPER off his belt and checks it.
RICKY
(getting up)
I have to run next door. Jane left her geometry book in my bag and she needs it to do her homework.
He heads into the hall. The Colonel watches him go, uneasy.
INT. ANGELA'S BMW - CONTINUOUS
Angela drives, squinting through the windshield as the wipers move back and forth.
ANGELA
So you and psycho boy are fucking on like, a regular basis now, right?
JANE
(irritable)
No.
ANGELA
Oh, come on. You can tell me. Does he have a big dick?
JANE
Look, I'm not gonna talk about his dick with you, okay? It's not like that.
ANGELA
Not like what? Doesn't he have one?
(then)
Why don't you want to talk about it? I mean, I tell you every single detail about every guy that I
fuck.
JANE
Yeah, and maybe you shouldn't, all right? Maybe I don't really want to hear all that.
ANGELA
Oh, so now that you have a boyfriend, you're like, above it?
(rolls her eyes)
We gotta get you a real man.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
The Colonel rinses off his plate at the sink. Something outside catches his eye, and he cranes his
neck to get a better look at...
His POV: Through the window over the sink, we can see into the Burnham's GARAGE WINDOW.
Our view is blurred by the RAIN, but we see Lester, his upper body pumped and glistening in sweat
as he counts out a wad of BILLS... and then Ricky walks into view.
The Colonel's face tightens.
His POV: Lester drapes his arm around Ricky as he gives him the money. We can only see Lester
from the waist up, so he looks naked.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Ricky, his hair wet from the rain, puts the cash in his pocket. Lester's arm remains draped around his
shoulder.
RICKY
(grins)
You got any papers?
LESTER
Yeah, in the cigar box, right over there.
(laughs)
You know, put up a fight, dude! You are such a pushover. "No I can't. Really. Okay."
And he slaps Ricky playfully on the chest. Ricky grins, then squats down and reaches under the
weight bench.
RICKY
You should learn to roll a joint.
Lester sits in the bowl chair and leans back, his hands behind his head, watching Ricky roll the joint.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
The Colonel's POV: Lester leans back in his chair. We see only Ricky's back and shoulders as he
rolls the joint. After a beat, Lester's jaw drops, then he throws his head back. From our perspective, it
looks very much like Ricky is giving Lester a blow job.
The Colonel watches, incredulous. Then we HEAR a CAR APPROACHING, and the Colonel
glances over at:
His POV: Angela's BMW pulls into the driveway, stopping behind Lester's Firebird. As Angela and
Jane get out and run toward the house, our focus MOVES back to the GARAGE WINDOW. Ricky
stands, looking a little panicked. Lester pulls on his T-shirt, and both he and Ricky cross out of view.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Lester leans nonchalantly against the counter. Jane and Angela enter. Jane frowns when she sees
him.
LESTER
Oh. Hi.
JANE
Where's Mom?
LESTER
Don't know.
ANGELA
Hi, Mr. Burnham.
LESTER
Hi.
He's trying to remain cool, and doing a pretty good job.
ANGELA
Wow. Look at you. Have you been working out?
LESTER
Some.
Jane rolls her eyes and exits. Angela walks over to Lester.
ANGELA
You can really tell. Look at those arms.
She places her hand on his arm flirtatiously, looks up at him and smiles, fully expecting to intimidate
him by doing so.
But something has changed, and he isn't intimidated at all. He looks directly back at her, leans in and
smiles slowly.
LESTER
You like muscles?
His voice is low and intense. She moves away, suddenly insecure.
ANGELA
I--I should probably go see what Jane's up to.
And she heads out quickly. Lester watches her go, baffled.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky enters, wet from the pouring rain, and crosses to his bureau, pulling the wad of CASH out of
his pocket as he goes.
COLONEL (O.C.)
Where'd you get that?
Ricky turns, startled.
His POV: The Colonel steps out of the shadows.
Ricky takes a step back.
RICKY
From my job.
COLONEL
Don't lie to me.
(beat)
I saw you with him.
RICKY
(incredulous)
You were watching me?
COLONEL
What did he make you do?
RICKY
(laughs)
Dad, you don't really think... me and Mr. Burnham?
COLONEL
(furious)
Don't you laugh at me!
(then)
I will not sit back and watch my only son become a cocksucker!
RICKY
Jesus, what is with you--
The Colonel BACKHANDS Ricky so hard it sends the boy sprawling.
COLONEL
I swear to God, I will throw you out of this house and never look at you again.
RICKY
(taken aback)
You mean that?
COLONEL
Damn straight I do. I'd rather you were dead than be a fucking faggot.
A beat. Ricky suddenly smiles. He gets up.
RICKY
You're right. I suck dick for money.
COLONEL
Boy--
RICKY
Two thousand dollars. I'm that good.
COLONEL
Get out.
RICKY
And you should see me fuck. I'm the best piece of ass in three states.
COLONEL
(explodes)
Get out!! I don't ever want to see you again!!
Ricky eyes the Colonel. He's finally discovered a way to break free from his father, and he can't
believe it was this simple.
RICKY
What a sad old man you are.
COLONEL
(a whisper)
Get out.
Ricky grabs his backpack, turns and walks out the door, leaving the Colonel standing there, glassyeyed
and breathing heavily.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Ricky enters to discover Barbara standing in the middle of the room, clutching a dish, frightened.
She's obviously heard his argument with his father, and she looks into his eyes, searching, aware that
something eventful is taking place.
RICKY
Mom, I'm leaving.
A beat.
BARBARA
Okay, wear a raincoat.
RICKY
(hugs her)
I wish things would have been better for you. Take care of Dad.
He kisses her cheek softly, then exits out the back door, leaving her standing alone, still clutching her
dish.
INT. FITTS HOUSE - RICKY'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
The Colonel's POV: Below us, Ricky dashes through the rain to the Burnham's front door and
knocks. Lester opens it and lets him in.
EXT. FITTS HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
The Colonel looks coldly down at us from Ricky's bedroom window, and then he pulls the drapes
shut.
EXT. FREEWAY - CONTINUOUS
The MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 is parked in the breakdown lane, its HAZARD LIGHTS
BLINKING. Cars ZOOM past in the rain.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn sits behind the wheel, listening to a MOTIVATIONAL TAPE on the STEREO.
TAPE VOICE
--disinvesting problems of their power, and removing their ability to make us afraid. This is the
secret to "me-centered" living. Only by taking full responsibility for your problems--and their
solutions--will you ever be able to break free from the constant cycle of victimhood.
Carolyn leans over and open the glove compartment. She takes out her GLOCK 19.
TAPE VOICE (cont'd)
Remember, you are only a victim if you choose to be a victim...
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Angela is sprawled across the bed. Jane stands across the room from her.
JANE
I don't think we could be friends anymore.
ANGELA
You are way too uptight about sex.
JANE
Just don't fuck my dad, all right? Please?
ANGELA
Why not?
There is a KNOCK on the door. Jane sits up, alarmed.
JANE
(angry)
Dad! Leave us alone!
RICKY (O.C.)
It's me.
Jane jumps up and opens the door and lets him in.
RICKY (cont'd)
(to Jane)
If I had to leave tonight, would you come with me?
JANE
What?
RICKY
If I had to go to New York. To live. Tonight. Would you come with me?
JANE
Yes.
ANGELA
You guys can't be serious.
(to Jane)
You're just a kid. And he's like, a mental case. You'll end up living in a box on the street.
JANE
I'm no more a kid than you are!
( to Ricky)
We can use my plastic surgery money.
RICKY
We won't have to. I have over forty thousand dollars. And I know people in the city who can help us
get set up.
ANGELA
What, other drug dealers?
RICKY
Yes.
ANGELA
Jane, you'd be out of your mind to go with him.
JANE
Why do you even care?
ANGELA
Because you're my friend!
RICKY
She's not your friend. She's somebody you use to feel better about yourself.
ANGELA
Go fuck yourself, psycho!
JANE
You shut up, bitch!
ANGELA
Jane! He is a freak!
JANE
Well, then so am I! And we'll always be freaks and we'll never be like other people. And you'll never
be a freak because you're just too perfect.
ANGELA
Oh, yeah? Well, at least I'm not ugly.
RICKY
Yes, you are. And you're boring. And you're totally ordinary. And you know it.
Angela stares at him, stunned, then starts toward the door.
ANGELA
You two deserve each other.
And she exits, SLAMMING the door behind her. Jane turns to Ricky and he takes her in his arms.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - UPSTAIRS HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Angela sits on the stairs, shaken, crying.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
We're MOVING SLOWLY toward the Burnham's GARAGE WINDOW through the RAIN.
Through the window, we see Lester, wearing only his sweatpants, performing bench presses.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Through the window, we see the Colonel standing outside, watching. We ZOOM slowly in on him
as he watches, transfixed.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
His POV: Lester finishes his last rep, then racks the weights and sits up, sweaty and out of breath. He
runs his free hand over his chest... and then he glances at us, suddenly aware he's being watched.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Lester and the Colonel stare at each other through the window.
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - MOMENTS LATER
The RAIN is coming down in sheets now, and there is a sharp CLAP of THUNDER. We're directly
outside the GARAGE DOOR as it slowly lifts to reveal Lester smiling at us.
LESTER
Jesus, man. You're soaked.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - GARAGE - CONTINUOUS
Lester pulls the Colonel inside. The Colonel moves stiffly and seems preoccupied, slightly
disoriented.
LESTER
You want me to get Ricky? He's in Jane's room.
The Colonel just stands there, looking at Lester.
LESTER (cont'd)
You okay?
COLONEL
(his voice thick)
Where's your wife?
LESTER
Uh... I don't know. Probably out fucking that dorky prince of real estate asshole. And you know
what? I don't care.
The Colonel moves closer towards him.
COLONEL
Your wife is with another man and you don't care?
LESTER
Nope, our marriage is just for show. A commercial, for how normal we are. When we are anything
but.
He grins... and so does the Colonel.
LESTER (cont'd)
You're shaking.
He places his hand on the Colonel's shoulder. The Colonel closes his eyes.
LESTER (cont'd)
We really should get you out of these clothes.
COLONEL
(a whisper)
Yes...
He opens his eyes and looks at Lester, his face filled with an anguished vulnerability we wouldn't
have thought possible from him. His eyes are brimming with tears. Lester leans in, concerned.
LESTER
It's okay.
COLONEL
(hoarse)
I...
LESTER
(softly)
Just tell me what you need.
The Colonel reaches up and places his hand on Lester's cheek... and then kisses him. Lester is
momentarily stunned, and then he pushes the Colonel away. The Colonel's face crumples in shame.
LESTER (cont'd)
Whoa, whoa, whoa. I'm sorry. You got the wrong idea.
The Colonel stares at the floor, blinking, and then he turns and runs out the open garage door into the
rainy night.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn is still listening to the same MOTIVATIONAL TAPE. She holds the GLOCK in her hand.
TAPE VOICE
"I refuse to be a victim." When this becomes your mantra, constantly running through your head--
Carolyn switches the TAPE OFF and puts the gun in her purse.
CAROLYN
I refuse to be a victim.
EXT. FREEWAY - CONTINUOUS
The Mercedes pulls away from the shoulder.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
Lester enters, opens the refrigerator and grabs a BEER. Suddenly we HEAR MUSIC coming from
the other room. Lester opens his beer and starts toward the family room.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FAMILY ROOM - CONTINUOUS
His POV: AS we MOVE SLOWLY around a corner, Angela comes into view, standing at the
STEREO, holding a CD case. She's been crying; her face is puffy, and her hair mussed. She regards
us apprehensively... then puts on a slightly defiant smile.
ANGELA
I hope you don't mind if I play the stereo.
Lester leans against the wall and takes a swig of his beer.
LESTER
Not at all.
(then)
Bad night?
ANGELA
Not really bad, just... strange.
LESTER
(grins)
Believe me. It couldn't possibly be any stranger than mine.
She smiles. They stand there in silence; the atmosphere is charged.
ANGELA
Jane and I had a fight.
(after a beat)
It was about you.
She's trying to be seductive as she says this, but she's pretty bad at it. Lester raises his eyebrows.
ANGELA (cont'd)
She's mad at me because I said I think you're sexy.
Lester grins. He is sexy.
LESTER
(offering beer)
Do you want a sip?
She nods. Lester holds the bottle up to her mouth and she drinks clumsily. He gently wipes her chin
with the back of his hand.
LESTER (cont'd)
So... are you going to tell me? What you want?
ANGELA
I don't know.
LESTER
You don't know?
His face is very close to hers. She's unnerved--this is happening too fast...
ANGELA
What do you want?
LESTER
Are you kidding? I want you. I've wanted you since the first moment I saw you. You are the most
beautiful thing I have ever seen.
Angela takes a deep breath just before Lester leans in to kiss her cheek, her forehead, her eyelids, her
neck...
ANGELA
You don't think I'm ordinary?
LESTER
You couldn't be ordinary if you tried.
ANGELA
Thank you.
(far away)
I don't think there's anything worse than being ordinary...
And Lester kisses her on the lips.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
Carolyn drives, her face resolute.
CAROLYN
I refuse to be a victim. I refuse to be a victim. I refuse to be a victim...
(angry)
Lester, I have something I have to say to you...
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FAMILY ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Angela lays back on the couch as Lester moves in over her. He pulls her jeans off and gently brushes
his fingers over her legs, then moves up and caresses her face...
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ricky and Jane, fully clothed, lie curled up on Jane's bed.
JANE
Are you scared?
RICKY
I don't get scared.
JANE
My parents will try to find me.
RICKY
Mine won't.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FAMILY ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Lester starts unbuttoning Angela's blouse. She seems disconnected from what's happening. Lester
pulls her blouse open, exposing her breasts.
Lester looks down at her, grinning, unable to believe he's actually about to do what he's dreamed of
so many times, and then...
ANGELA
This is my first time.
Lester LAUGHS.
LESTER
You're kidding.
ANGELA
(a whisper)
I'm sorry.
A beat. Lester looks down at her, his grin fading.
His POV: Angela lies beneath us, embarrassed and vulnerable. This is not the mythically carnal
creature of Lester's fantasies; this is a nervous child.
ANGELA (cont'd)
I still want to do it... I just thought I should tell you... in case you wondered why I wasn't... better.
Lester's face falls. There's no way he's going to go through with this now.
ANGELA (cont'd)
(confused)
What's wrong? I thought you said I was beautiful.
LESTER
(tenderly)
You are beautiful.
He grabs a blanket from the back of the couch and drapes it around her shoulders, covering her
nakedness.
LESTER (cont'd)
You are so beautiful... and I would be a very lucky man...
He smiles and shakes his head. Humiliated, Angela starts to cry.
ANGELA
I feel so stupid.
LESTER
Don't.
He hugs her, letting her put her head on his shoulder, stroking her hair and rocking her gently.
ANGELA
I'm sorry.
Lester takes her by the shoulders and looks at her, serious.
LESTER
You have nothing to be sorry about.
But she keeps crying. Lester hugs her again. We HEAR a loud CLAP of THUNDER outside.
LESTER (cont'd)
(smiles)
It's okay. Everything's okay.
EXT. ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - MOMENTS LATER
The Mercedes pulls onto Robin Hood Trail.
INT. MERCEDES-BENZ ML320 - CONTINUOUS
CLOSE on Carolyn's eyes, reflected in the REAR-VIEW MIRROR. She turns her head to look out
the window:
Her POV: The RED DOOR of the Burnham house stands out, even in the pouring rain.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Angela, once again fully clothed, sits at the kitchen counter. She's eating a turkey sandwich.
ANGELA
Wow. I was starving.
Lester puts a jar of mayonnaise back in the refrigerator.
LESTER
Do you want me to make you another one?
ANGELA
No, no, no. I'm fine.
He turns to her and cocks an eyebrow.
LESTER
(concerned)
You sure?
ANGELA
I mean, I'm still a little weirded out, but...
(sincerely)
...I feel better. Thanks.
A long beat, as Lester studies her, then:
LESTER
How's Jane?
ANGELA
What do you mean?
LESTER
I mean, how's her life? Is she happy? Is she miserable? I'd really like to know, and she'd die before
she'd ever tell me about it.
Angela shifts uncomfortably.
ANGELA
She's... she's really happy. She thinks she's in love.
Angela rolls her eyes at how silly this notion is.
LESTER
(quietly)
Good for her.
An awkward beat.
ANGELA
How are you?
LESTER
(smiles, taken aback)
God, it's been a long time since anybody asked me that.
(thinks about it)
I'm great.
They just sit there, smiling at each other, then:
ANGELA
(suddenly)
I've gotta go to the bathroom.
She crosses off. Lester watches her go, then stands there wondering why he should suddenly feel so
content.
LESTER
(laughs)
I'm great.
Something at the edge of the counter catches his eye, and he reaches for...
CLOSE on a framed PHOTOGRAPH as he picks it up: It's the photo we saw earlier of him, Carolyn
and Jane, taken several years ago at an amusement park. It's startling how happy they look.
Lester crosses to the kitchen table, where he sits and studies the photo. He suddenly seems older,
more mature... and then he smiles: the deep, satisfied smile of a man who just now understands the
punch line of a joke he heard long ago...
LESTER (cont'd)
Man oh man...
(softly)
Man oh man oh man...
After a beat, the barrel of a GUN rises up behind his head, aimed at the base of his skull.
ANGLE ON an arrangement of fresh-cut ROSES in a vase on the opposite counter, deep crimson
against the WHITE TILE WALL. Then a GUNSHOT suddenly rings out, ECHOING unnaturally.
Instantly, the tile is sprayed with BLOOD, the same deep crimson as the roses.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - FOYER - MOMENTS LATER
Ricky comes down the stairs, followed by Jane.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Ricky opens the door from the dining room, then stops. Jane appears behind him.
JANE
Oh God.
Their POV: A pool of blood is forming on the kitchen table.
Ricky comes into the kitchen and slowly approaches Lester's lifeless body, wide-eyed but not afraid.
Jane follows him, in shock. Ricky kneels, gazing at Lester's unseen face... then he smiles, ever so
slightly.
His POV: Lester looks back at us; his eyes are lifeless, but he's smiling the same slight smile.
RICKY
(an awed whisper)
Wow.
LESTER (V.O.)
I had always heard your entire life flashes in front of your eyes the second before you die.
EXT. SKY - DAY
We're FLYING across a white blanket of clouds.
LESTER (V.O.)
First of all, that one second isn't a second at all, it stretches on forever, like an ocean of time...
EXT. WOODS - NIGHT
In BLACK & WHITE: Eleven-year-old Lester looks up, pointing excitedly at:
His POV: A DOT OF LIGHT falls across an unbelievably starry sky.
LESTER (V.O.)
For me, it was lying on my back at Boy Scout camp, watching falling stars...
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - JANE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Ricky and Jane lie curled up on Jane's bed, fully clothed. We HEAR a GUNSHOT from downstairs.
They look at each other, alarmed.
EXT. SUBURBAN STREET - DUSK
In BLACK & WHITE: Maple trees in autumn. Ghostly LEAVES FLUTTER slowly toward
pavement.
LESTER (V.O.)
And yellow leaves, from the maple trees, that lined my street...
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - POWDER ROOM - NIGHT
Angela stands in front of the mirror, fixing her make-up. We HEAR the GUNSHOT again. Angela
turns, frightened.
INT. SUBURBAN HOUSE - DAY
In BLACK & WHITE: CLOSE on an ancient woman's papery HANDS as they button a cardigan
sweater.
LESTER (V.O.)
Or my grandmother's hands, and the way her skin seemed like paper...
EXT. BURNHAM HOUSE - NIGHT
Carolyn walks slowly toward the RED DOOR, drenched to the bone, clutching her PURSE tightly.
We HEAR the GUNSHOT again.
EXT. SUBURB - DAY
In BLACK & WHITE: A 1970 PONTIAC FIREBIRD in the driveway of a suburban home. The
SUN'S REFLECTION in the windshield FLASHES BRILLIANTLY.
LESTER (V.O.)
And the first time I saw my cousin Tony's brand new Firebird...
INT. FITTS HOUSE - THE COLONEL'S STUDY - NIGHT
The Colonel enters, wet. He's wearing LATEX GLOVES. BLOOD covers the front of his T-shirt.
He paces in front of one of his GUN CASES; the GLASS DOOR is open, and a gun is conspicuously
missing from inside.
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - HALL - NIGHT
In BLACK & WHITE: Jane opens her bedroom door, staring at us.
LESTER (V.O.)
And Janie...
EXT. SUBURBAN HOUSE - DUSK
In BLACK & WHITE: A door opens to reveal 4-YEAR-OLD JANE, dressed for Halloween in a
Princess costume, holding a lit SPARKLER aloft and smiling shyly at us.
LESTER (V.O.)
And Janie...
INT. BURNHAM HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - NIGHT
Carolyn enters, terrified, still clutching her PURSE. She shuts the door and locks it, then takes the
GLOCK 19 out of her purse. She opens the closet door and shoves the gun into a HAMPER. Then,
suddenly aware of Lester's scent, she grabs as many of his clothes as she can and pulls them to her,
burying her face in them. She sinks to her knees, pulling several items of clothing down with her,
and she begins to cry.
EXT. AMUSEMENT PARK - NIGHT
IN BLACK & WHITE:
A younger Carolyn sits across from us in one of those SPINNING-TEACUP RIDES, LAUGHING
uncontrollably as she twists the wheel in front of her, making us SPIN even faster.
LESTER (V.O.)
(with love)
And... Carolyn.
EXT. PARKING LOT - DAY
On VIDEO: We're watching the video Ricky showed Jane earlier, of the empty white PLASTIC
BAG being blown about. The wind carries it in a circle around us, sometimes whipping it about
violently, or, without warning, sending it soaring skyward, then letting it float gracefully down to the
ground...
LESTER (V.O.)
I guess I could be pretty pissed off about what happened to me... but it's hard to stay mad, when
there's so much beauty in the world. Sometimes I feel like I'm seeing it all at once, and it's too much,
my heart fills up like a balloon that's about to burst...
EXT. - ROBIN HOOD TRAIL - DAY
We're FLYING once again over Robin Hood Trail, ASCENDING SLOWLY.
LESTER (V.O.)
...and then I remember to relax, and stop trying to hold on to it, and then it flows through me like rain
and I can't feel anything but gratitude for every single moment of my stupid little life...
(amused)
You have no idea what I'm talking about, I'm sure. But don't worry...
FADE TO BLACK.
LESTER (V.O.) (cont'd)
You will someday.
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