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The Driver
July 1st, 1955 Sam leaps into Danny Roberts, who wants to get his car into a NASCAR stock car race. But another competitor is determined to win the race by any means necessary - and the woman Danny loves. This is an unproduced script that would have aired during season three.
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THE DRIVER JULY 1, 1955
Written by Robert Wolterstorff
FIRST DRAFT July 10, 1990
THE DRIVER JULY 1, 1955 TEASER
FADE IN QUANTUM LEAP IN INT. ’49 FORD – DAY – SAM An explosion of blue light flares across the screen and then fades, revealing Sam. The deafening sound of a red-lining engine fills the interior of the old Ford. Sam’s hands are locked around the car’s vibrating steering wheel, his foot frozen to the gas pedal. He shakes his head, trying to clear his mind; attempt to deal with the scene in front of him. SAM’S POV – THROUGH WINDSHIELD He’s roaring down the center of an empty oval dirt track. His eyes dart to the speedometer. The needle hovers at 90 MPH. RESUME SAM He looks real worried. He’s coming into a turn that he knows he can’t possibly complete. EXT. TRACK – THE FORD As it slides into the turn. Its rear end begins to fishtail dangerously. ANGLE – PIT AREA – LENNY, BUMP AND NADINE Three teenagers each with a vested interest, watch as the Ford begins to careen out of control. Lenny has the look of a country greaser; slicked back hair, and a pack of cigarettes rolled in the sleeve of his white T-shirt. Bump is a lumpy farm boy; big, slow and cuddly. Nadine has the fresh scrubbed look of the girl next door. LENNY (concerned) What’s he doing out there?
BUMP Looks like he’s losing it.
NADINE (fearfully) Oh my God! EXT. TRACK – THE FORD It’s sliding helplessly toward a wooden barrier. Sam ducks as the car smashes through the wall. ON LENNY, BUMP, AND NADINE The three teenagers are running at full speed toward the crash site. NADINE (emotionally) Danny…Danny… please be all right. ON THE FORD The three kids race up to the car. Lenny and Bump work feverishly to pry open the front door. Once the door swings open, Sam spills out. ANGLE – CLOSE ON SAM He’s dazed, but alright. Nadine immediately beings smothering him with kisses. LENNY (to Sam) Fireball, you alright?
SAM Yeah… I think so.
BUMP We ain’t gonna get to NASCAR with you driving like that.
SAM NASCAR? Fireball? (Sam’s eyes roll) Oh, boy. SMASH CUT TO MAIN TITLE END OF TEASER
FADE IN EXT. RACE TRACK – DAY – SAM He’s still lying on the ground with a worried Nadine cleaning his face with her handkerchief. Sam still looks dazed and confused. SAM’S VOICE OVER This is one of those times that I wish I could have looked before I leaped.
NADINE (concerned) Danny, you near scared me to death out there. When I saw you crash, all I could think about was James Dean.
SAM (quizzically) James Dean?
NADINE Don’t you remember how he died in that awful car crash?
SAM (remembering) …back in ’55.
NADINE (confused) Back in ’55? This is ’55. Are you sure you’re okay?
SAM I’m fine, really.
NADINE You’re not acting fine. You’re acting funny.
Lenny approaches from the front of the car.
LENNY He’s just a little shook up, Nadine. Take more than a fence to stop Fireball Danny Roberts, right Fireball?
SAM Uh….right. Sam attempts to get up. NADINE What are you doing?
SAM Getting up?
NADINE (holding him down) I don’t think that’s such a good idea. What if you broke something?
LENNY He’ll know if he broke something once he gets up.
Lenny and Nadine take Sam’s hands and help him to his feet. Sam is a little wobbly, but okay.
LENNY So…anything broke?
SAM (checking himself) I don’t think so.
LENNY Whew… that’s a relief. You know how important this next race is.
NADINE (to Sam) I’m startin’ to get a bad feeling about that race.
LENNY (irritated) Nadine, would you mind your own business. This is guy stuff… it don’t concern you. NADINE (defensive) I’m Danny’s girl… so anything that concerns him, concerns me, ain’t that right Danny?
SAM (awkward) Uh… right, Nadine.
LENNY (uptight) What’s that mean? Now you ain’t gonna race?
SAM No, I’m gonna race… I guess.
NEW ANGLE – BUMP’S HEAD It suddenly pops out from under the front end of the car.
BUMP (glumly) Ain’t nobody gonna race this car.
LENNY (with great trepidation) What’s wrong?
BUMP We got big trouble. Driveshaft’s busted.
LENNY Oh, that’s just great. That’s just great! (uptight) Now what are we gonna do?
BUMP As I see it, we got us a choice. We can either push it or tow it back to the garage.
Bump and Lenny both look at Sam.
SAM (uncomfortable) Is it too late to say I’m sorry?
EXT. PASTORAL COUNTRY ROAD – DAY A noisy, beat up, smoke spewing old Hudson suddenly cuts through the serenity with the disabled Ford in tow. Bump is driving the Hudson, with Lenny in the passenger seat. Sam is steering the Ford with Nadine pressed closely against him.
SAM’S VOICE OVER Leaping around as much as I have, one thing I’ve learned is that dreams come in all shapes and sizes. This one has four wheels and a busted driveshaft… courtesy of me.
INT. THE HUDSON Bump is driving while Lenny fidgets next to him.
LENNY (excited) …I’m telling you we gotta have that car ready tomorrow for them time trials.
BUMP I’ll do the best I can.
LENNY You’ll do better than that or you’re fired.
BUMP You can’t fire me…we’re partners.
LENNY But as partners, we decided that I’m the crew boss and you’re the crew, right?
BUMP (cautiously) Right.
LENNY So as your boss… I can fire you.
BUMP Okay… but just remember, if you fire the crew you’re gonna be the boss over nothing.
LENNY (a thoughtful pause) So you think we can get this thing ready for the time trials?
BUMP Yeah… I think so.
LENNY Great. That’s all I wanted to hear.
LENNY (a thoughtful pause) So you think we can get this thing ready for the time trials?
BUMP Yeah… I think so.
LENNY Great. That’s all I wanted to hear.
INT. FORD – TIGHT ON REAR VIEW MIRROR The mirror features the real Danny Roberts and Nadine almost cheek to cheek. Danny has the winning face of a small town hero. Chiseled features, short blonde hair and piercing blue eyes. A young Steve McQueen. Camera pulls back to reveal Sam steering the disabled car. Nadine is as close to him as she can be without pushing him out the door.
NADINE Danny, I know you gotta race. I just can’t help worrying about you.
SAM Yeah… I know. I’m a little worried myself.
NADINE (surprised) I never heard you talk like that before.
SAM (covering) …I was just kidding.
NADINE (touched) I think you were just being honest. That’s why I love you.
Nadine kisses him hard on the lips, then suddenly pulls away from Sam.
NADINE What’s wrong?
SAM What do you mean?
NADINE You ain’t kissing back like you usually do.
SAM Oh…uh…it’s because my lips hurt. I hit them on the steering wheel when I went through that fence.
NADINE Oh, I’m sorry. I’ll take it a little easier.
She kisses him, lightly on the lips.
NADINE (CONT.) How’s that?
SAM Much better…thank you.
NADINE So what are you gonna wear to dinner tonight?
SAM …Dinner?
NADINE (scolding) Aw, Danny, you forgot, didn’t you. You know how important this is. I really want you to make a good impression on my parents. Now promise me you’ll change your clothes.
SAM I promise.
NADINE …And you’ll be there on time?
SAM Right on time. (beat) What time was that again?
Suddenly, THE
PLATTER’S rendition of "The Great Pretender" kicks in and plays through
the next two shots. On Nadine’s concerned look, we… CUT TO EXT. ROADSIDE SIGN – DAY The sign reads: YOU ARE NOW ENTERING THE SACRED TOWNSHIP OF JUSTINE, SOUTH CAROLINA, POPULATION: 3,602. GOD BLESS OUR TOWN. The Hudson with the Ford in tow sputters through town. EXT. COUNTRY HOME – DAY The camera travels with the Hudson and Ford as it pulls to a stop in front of Nadine’s house. It’s a comfortable, lower middle class home with a long gravel driveway. NEW ANGLE – CLOSE ON NADINE She jumps out of the car and slams the door. As she leans into the window the music stops.
NADINE I’ll see you at seven.
SAM On the dot.
Nadine blows him a kiss. MUSIC UP: bridge of "The Great Pretender". Sam is noticeably touched by the sweet innocence of Nadine. The Hudson pulls out with the Ford in tow. Nadine lingers for a moment waving goodbye. Then turns and crosses to the house. The music fades. EXT. NADINE’S FRONT PORCH – DAY As Nadine crosses, she notices a new ’55 Chevy parked in the driveway. A look of concern streaks across her face. She climbs the stairs and crosses toward the front door. The old wooden screen door suddenly swings open. Nadine’s mother, Rose Ketchum, approaching forty, but trying to maintain the look of youth. Her hair is bleached blonde and she’s wearing a sundress that would look better on her daughter.
ROSE Nadine…where have you been?
NADINE I told you mama, I was out at the race track.
ROSE (dismisses the race track with a flip of her hand.) Well, I got a big surprise for you. (beaming) Come on out, you big surprise you.
The screen door swings open and out saunters Randy Butler. A cocky, handsome eighteen year old, as long as you don’t look too deeply into his cold eyes. RANDY (smiling) Hi, Nadine. Nadine attempts to cover up her unhappiness at seeing him, but she’s unsuccessful. NADINE Hi, Randy.
ROSE Well you two kids probably want to be alone. Just holler if you want a cold drink, or something.
Rose begins to exit, but she’s suddenly overcome with joy. She grabs Randy by the shoulders.
ROSE Oh, Randy…it’s just so good to have you back.
RANDY (saccharin) Thank you, Mrs. Ketchum. It feels real good to be back.
Rose exits into the house. NEW ANGLE – RANDY AND NADINE Randy approaches her. We can see Nadine is extremely uncomfortable.
RANDY What…no welcome home kiss?
NADINE (nervously ignoring him) How’s college?
RANDY Fine…how about my kiss?
NADINE Randy, things have changed here.
RANDY My feelings for you haven’t.
Randy tries to put his arms around her. Nadine pulls away.
NADINE (very nervous) I’m with Danny Roberts now.
RANDY I’m surprised. I’m real surprised. I thought you had more class than that.
NADINE Just leave it alone, alright.
RANDY If you wanna go out with trash, it’s okay with me.
Randy crosses to his Chevy, climbs in, and burns out of the driveway, sending gravel flying in all directions. EXT. MAIN STREET – DOWNTOWN JUSTINE – DAY A town who’s glory days have come and gone with the wind. The town consists of a Post Office, a couple of bars, the Hotel Justine and a number of other small businesses. The American flag and the Confederate flag are flying together in the town square over the statue of Robert E. Lee on his trusted steed. The Hudson chugs into the frame with the Ford still in tow. INT. FORD – SAM Sam is surveying the dying town.
OBSERVER (O.S.) Ah, the hustle and bustle of beautiful Downtown Justine.
WIDER TO INCLUDE AL He’s sitting in the backseat, right behind Sam, smoking a cigar and more than a little overdressed, especially for Justine. He leans forward.
OBSERVER I hear they’re thinking of putting a subway in. Rush hour can be a real bear here.
SAM Al, where have you been?
OBSERVER Gushy had a tough time finding this place. It’s not like Justine’s on any map.
SAM It’s kind of hard to believe people live here.
OBSERVER They don’t Sam…they die here. The ones who live…leave.
SAM Then what am I doing here.
OBSERVER Good question, Sam. Ziggy thinks it’s about dreams.
SAM Dreams? Who dreams in a town like this?
OBSERVER Kids…they dream about leaving.
SAM This must have something to do with the race Lenny and Bump keep talking about.
OBSERVER Only in a town like this would somebody name their kid Bump. What’s his father’s name…Klump?
SAM Al, Ziggy’s gotta be more specific. If I’m here to race I have to know how to drive in a race… I’ve never done that.
OBSERVER Nothin’ to it. You push down hard on the gas and try not to lose control.
SAM Thanks a lot.
Al punches data into his hand computer.
OBSERVER OK, let’s see… your name is Danny Roberts, you’re eighteen years old and you’re on your way to NASCAR.
SAM I know all that. Something hast to be wrong or I wouldn’t be here.
OBSERVER Sorry, Sam. Ziggy must have a loose chip. I’ll go back and reprogram. SFX – AL The imaging chamber door opens on the seat next to him. He slides in.
OBSERVER You just hang in there, Sam…and don’t forget…pedal to the metal.
The imaging chamber door closes.
SAM I already had the pedal to the metal and I almost killed myself.
EXT./INT. GUS’S GAS STATION AND GARAGE – DAY It’s a one tank station on the outskirts of town. The Hudson pulls in with the Ford in tow. INT. GARAGE – GREASE PIT – SAM, LENNY, AND BUMP The boys are all in the grease pit removing the driveshaft from the Ford.
LENNY …You know how much Buddy Baker made last year on the circuit? Twenty-Nine Thousand Dollars, that’s how much.
BUMP Anybody can drive Daytona if you’ve got enough nerve. On asphalt you just drive with your fingers…it’s all the same. On the turns you nudge the wheel slightly and drift a little. But, on dirt, them rear wheels always gotta be diggin’. Ain’t that right, Danny?
SAM (unsure) Yeah…right. Those wheels really have to dig…deep…into the dirt.
Lenny and Bump give Sam a funny look. Sam smiles, trying to cover. Suddenly the sound of a blasting car horn comes from O. S. Lenny and Bump begin to shake their fists in an up and down motion. BUMP (to Sam) Odd finger pumps the gas. Come on Fireball, you ain’t getting out of this just ‘cause you’re the driver.
Sam joins them and comes up odd.
BUMP You lose, you pump. Sam climbs out of the grease pit and exits to the gas pump. EXT. GUS’S GAS STATION AND GARAGE – THE PUMP Parked in front of the pump is Randy Butler’s ’55 Chevy Impala. Randy is leaning against the car as Sam approaches.
RANDY Fill it up, Roberts.
SAM Leaded or unleaded?
SAM (catching himself) Uh…nothing. I’ll fill it up.
Sam takes the gas pump and begins pumping gas.
RANDY So how you been doin’ Roberts.
SAM Just fine.
RANDY Hear you got yourself a new girl.
SAM Yeah…I guess I do.
RANDY You know what I can’t figure out…How a fine little girl like Nadine could be going out with a piece of trash like you. (in Sam’s face) I mean, I really can’t figure it out. (intense) Maybe you can explain it to me.
SAM Maybe you should try calming down.
RANDY Maybe you should try calming me down.
Randy is now nose to nose with Sam itching for a fight.
RANDY Come on, trash, let’s go.
Randy shoves Sam hard against the car. Sam rebounds quickly, ready to fight. OBSERVER (O.S.) Don’t fight him Sam. WIDER TO INCLUDE AL SAM (to Al) What are you talkin’ about?
RANDY I’m talking about settlin’ this.
OBSERVER You can’t do this Sam. Ziggy found out what went wrong. Danny got into a fight. He was blinded in his right eye and he never raced again. All those dreams died, Sam, and the kids got sentenced to live in this town.
RANDY Enough of this dance, I’m taking you down. On Sam’s concerned look we… FADE OUT
END OF ACT ONE
FADE IN EXT. GUS’S GAS STATION AND GARAGE – DAY – CONTINUOUS ACTION Sam and Randy are still nose to nose. Al is standing next to the gas pump. Randy begins shoving Sam backward. Lenny and Bump emerge from the garage and cross quickly into the scene. RANDY (to Sam) Come on…let’s go.
SAM I’m not going to fight you.
LENNY What’s goin’ on, Danny?
SAM Nothing’s going on…it’s over. Sam puts his arms down, turns his back on Randy and walks away.
RANDY I’ll tell you what’s going on. You’re friend’s a chicken.
Randy makes a slow chicken sound.
BUMP (to Lenny) How come he didn’t fight?
LENNY I don’t know. Maybe he didn’t want to hurt him.
Randy pulls the hose out of his gas tank and hangs it back up.
RANDY Just put it on my tab.
Randy climbs into his car and burns rubber as he powers away. LENNY AND BUMP’S P.O.V. They watch as Sam converses with Al over by the side of the gas station. RESUME LENNY AND BUMP BUMP What’s he doin’ now?
LENNY Workin’ it out. My daddy used to do that all the time…’course that was always after a gallon of Moonshine. SAM AND AL SAM Was that the guy that took Danny’s eye?
OBSERVER That’s him. He’s the original spoiled brat, Sam. His father owns the local mill. The whole town works for him. Apparently, him and Danny were fighting over some girl.
SAM …Nadine.
AL But then, it’s always over some girl. I got in a fight once over the cutest little red head. She had these little freckles right on top of her big… (he makes a breast gesture with his hands) I just wanted to see if they were real and I got punched right in the mouth.
SAM Who punched you?
OBSERVER Her boyfriend. But, the good part is I landed right on top of her freckles.
SAM That’s a great story, Al. Now back to me. All I have to do is stay out of a fight until the race?
OBSERVER …And then everybody lives happily ever after. (thinking) I wonder what ever happened to that red head?
SFX – THE IMAGING CHAMBER DOOR Al steps inside. OBSERVER …You know… I think I still have her phone number. The imaging chamber door slams shut. Sam shakes his head and we… CUT TO EXT. THE KETCHUM HOUSE – NIGHT – ESTABLISHING It’s a tranquil setting with Georgia Gibbs rendition of "Tweedley-Dee" wafting from a radio in the house. The camera slowly pushes in. INT. KETCHUM DINING ROOM Sam and the family are in the middle of dinner. Sam sits stiffer than the statue of Robert E. Lee in the town square. Frank Ketchum, Nadine’s father, is a care worn man who looks a lot older than his forty-two years. Nadine is extremely uncomfortable. The atmosphere is dismal except for Rose, her mother, who bounces to the music as she clears the table.
FRANK Rose, I think we’ve heard enough of her nibs… Miss Georgia Gibbs for one evening.
ROSE I’ll turn it right off.
FRANK (to Sam) Nadine tells me you race cars.
SAM (uncomfortable) Yes, sir.
FRANK What do you plan to do for a living?
SAM Uh…race cars.
FRANK How about when you grow up?
SAM Like I said, I’m going to race cars…sir. (Frank continues to stare at him.) Someday there’ll be a lot of money in auto racing.
FRANK Yeah…but you gotta be good.
NADINE He is good daddy. Danny’s the best race car driver in the whole state.
FRANK I understand Randy Butler is a pretty good racer, too. But he’s smart enough to know that it’s just a hobby.
NADINE (annoyed) I don’t want to talk about Randy Butler, okay?
ROSE That reminds me. He called here again today…
NADINE (upset) Mama, I don’t care. I just want him to leave me alone.
ROSE But, Nadine. He’s such a nice boy…
NADINE (interrupting, angrily) Maybe for somebody, but not for me.
FRANK (sharply) I don’t like that tone, young lady.
NADINE (raising her voice) Why can’t you just accept the fact that it’s over.
A frustrated Nadine, jumps up and exits quickly to the front porch.
SAM (uncomfortably) Excuse me.
Sam follows Nadine outside. EXT. PORCH – NIGHT Nadine is leaning against the railing. She looks extremely unhappy. Sam approaches.
SAM Are you okay, Nadine?
NADINE I’m sorry. They never stop talkin’ about Randy. Randy this, Randy that. They don’t know him at all. He puts on this big show for them and they think he’s so special. He thinks all he has to do is snap his fingers and I’ll come running. I wish he’d just leave for good. Hold me, Danny, hold me tight.
Nadine puts her arms around Sam and hugs him tightly. Sam awkwardly consoles her. SAM Everything’s going to be okay Nadine.
NADINE Not as long as I’m stuck here in Justine. Once you win that race, we’ll get married and we’ll never look back.
SAM …Right.
ANGLE – THE SCREEN DOOR It swings open and bangs hard against the house, startling Sam and Nadine.
FRANK Nadine, get inside. Your mama needs your help with the dishes.
Nadine reluctantly pulls away from Sam.
NADINE (softly to Sam) I love you, Danny.
Sam nods, sincerely moved.
SAM …Me too.
Nadine exits, past her father, into the house. Frank stands there staring at Sam.
SAM (after an uncomfortable beat) Well…than you very much for that delicious dinner, Mr. Ketchum. You wife is quite a cook.
FRANK (cold) I don’t want you seeing Nadine no more…you understand?
SAM I’m not sure I do.
FRANK Her Mama and me want better for her than you can offer.
SAM Does Nadine’s happiness enter into this?
FRANK (intense) Nadine’s happiness ain’t none of your business, it’s mine. You just stay away from her, you hear. Whatever you and Nadine had, it’s over.
Frank enters the house and slams the door. Sam is stunned.
OBSERVER (O.S.) Further proof that anyone can have a child, but not everyone can be a parent.
WIDER TO INCLUDE AL Al is standing at the bottom of the porch steps. He beckons to Sam.
OBSERVER Come on, let’s take a walk.
EXT. COUNTRY ROAD – NIGHT – SAM AND AL They are walking down the side of the road on their way back to town.
SAM I just can’t figure it out. Why do Nadine’s parents keep pushing her towards Randy?
OBSERVER It just so happens that Nadine’s father works for Randy’s father down at the mill…along with everybody else in town.
SAM So he’s using his daughter to get closer to the boss.
OBSERVER That’s part of it. But, I think he really believes he’s doing what’s best for Nadine. Upward mobility. That’s the American way.
SAM But, she hates Randy.
OBSERVER I guess he figures all that money will help her get used to him.
NEW ANGLE – ACROSS SAM AND AL A set of headlights appear from out from out of the night. The care suddenly swerves off the road heading straight for Sam and Al. Sam leaps out of the way as the car passes through Al. The car skids to a stop – It’s the Hudson. Loud country music blares from the open windows. Jimmy Roger’s rendition of "Uh, Oh, I’m Falling In Love, Again." OBSERVER Whew…Looks like another wild night in Justine. SFX – AL The imaging chamber door opens, and Al steps inside. He kicks his foot up and makes a party time hooting sound. The imaging chamber door slams shut, and Al is gone. ANOTHER ANGLE – THE HUDSON The door swings open and we see Lenny seated in the passenger seat. LENNY Get in.
SAM Where are we going?
LENNY We’re going to get the new driveshaft.
SAM (confused) Is there a place open this late?
Music up on "Uh Oh’s"… SMASH CUT TO EXT. OTIS SALVAGE – NIGHT Three silhouetted figures are scaling a tall, rusted chain link fence. Sam, Lenny and Bump climb over the top and drop into the auto graveyard. Sam and Lenny land like cats. Bump lands a little heavy, on top of Sam and Lenny. CLOSE ON SAM, LENNY AND BUMP Sam looks extremely nervous.
SAM I can’t believe we’re going to steal a driveshaft.
LENNY When did you get religion?
SAM Why don’t we just wait ‘till morning and then buy it?
BUMP (like talking to a child) ‘Cause we don’t have any money.
SAM Wait a minute. What if we left an I.O.U.?
BUMP Good idea. But don’t sign it.
Sam is still not convinced.
LENNY Danny, we ain’t got a choice. We’ll pay ‘im back when you win, okay?
That’s all Sam needs; more pressure
SAM (reluctantly) Okay…let’s get this over with.
NEW ANGLE – SAM, LENNY AND BUMP As the boys cautiously make their way through the eerie skeletal remains of dead cars, they suddenly hear the rustle of a heavy, old chain. The three boys freeze. SAM What was that?
Lenny shushes him. Now we hear the sound of galloping hooves.
SAM Do you hear that?
LENNY It’s just Gordon.
SAM Gordon?
NEW ANGLE – JUNKYARD DOG The meanest, ugliest, fattest junkyard dog you’ve ever seen in your life is lumbering toward them. Fangs bare, spittle dripping. Looking like a canine locomotive. ANGLE ON SAM Sam is ready to bolt and run, but Lenny and Bump grab him and hold their ground. Just as the dog leaps, Lenny reaches in his back pocket and pulls out a little piece of steak. He tosses it up, the dog grabs it, and lands happily on the ground. LENNY (rubbing the dog’s stomach) How ya doing Gordon? How’s my pal? (to Sam) Okay…let’s go get that driveshaft.
Sam clutches his heart as Patti Page’s rendition of "How Much Is That Doggie In The Window" kicks in. INT. GARAGE GREASE PIT – MORNING – BUMP Bump is struggling with the installation of the new driveshaft.
BUMP (to driveshaft) Get in there you little weasel.
ON LENNY AND SAM They are sitting by the edge of the pit, watching Bump struggle with the driveshaft. The three guys have been working all morning. They’re hot, sweaty and covered with grease. LENNY Come on, Bump, you could’ve built a whole new car by now.
BUMP You want it done fast, or you want it done right?
SAM I vote for right.
BUMP Thank you Danny for your vote of confidence.
He shoots Lenny a "so there" look.
BUMP Now would you mind passin’ me that ballpeen hammer.
Sam passes Bump the hammer. Bump’s read to smack the driveshaft when Lenny interrupts. LENNY Don’t hit it too hard or you’re gonna break it.
BUMP How ‘bout if I hit you instead?
Bump bangs on the driveshaft and it slides in.
BUMP Damn…I broke it!
LENNY What!!
BUMP Just jokin’, it’s in. The boys cheer. LENNY Alright, let’s go down to Mohawk and clean off this grease.
SAM …Mohawk?
EXT. MOHAWK LAKE – DAY – THE HUDSON Camera pulls back to reveal three piles of clothes stacked next to the car. In the B.G. we hear the whoops and yells of Sam, Lenny and Bump. ROPE SWING A naked rear end flys by conveniently covered by a well placed branch. It’s Sam. He drops into the water joining Lenny and Bump. ANGLE – LAKE – SAM He hits the water and immediately wishes he could fly out.
SAM (whooping) Is it always this cold?
The guys splash and dunk each other and then swim toward land. LAKESIDE – SAM, LENNY AND BUMP The three boys are now drying off in the sun. Exhausted from the rough-housing.
LENNY You know the only thing I’m gonna miss when we leave here is this lake.
SAM I just wish it was heated.
BUMP We can heat it and put it wherever we want it, once we get to NASCAR.
SAM (uncomfortable) What if we don’t make it to NASCAR?
BUMP We gotta make it. It’s our only chance to get out of here.
Lenny is staring up into the sky, as if lost in a daydream.
LENNY You know what my biggest fear is…winding up like my old man. Working in that lousy mill, from sun up to sun down. Coming home so tired he couldn’t even eat. Just sittin’ there drinkin’ shine all night. Then he’d pass out. My brother, my mama and me…we’d have to carry him to bed. Then one mornin’…he just didn’t get up. (getting choked up) We couldn’t help him anymore.
BUMP The first think I’m gonna do when we hit the big time is get my folks outta here. I’m gonna buy them a great big house right there in Daytona Beach, Florida…so they can watch us race every year in the 500.
LENNY You think they might have room for my mama?
BUMP Sure, Lenny, as many as she needs. (a beat) What about you, Danny? What’s your dream?
SAM (moved by the boys) Same as yours, to win that race.
Bump suddenly jumps up. BUMP You gotta win this one first. Come on, I’ll race you to the water.
Sam and Bump jump up and the three boys haul their butts into the lake. Whooping and hollering, trying hard to feel good again. CLOSE ON A HAND Pouring lighter fluid over the piles of clothes. Camera pulls back to reveal Randy Butler. A sick grin on his face. He pulls out a Zippo lighter from his pocket and sets the clothes on fire. FADE OUT
END ACT TWO
FADE IN INT. HUDSON – DAY – SAM, LENNY AND BUMP The three guys are still quite naked. Bump is driving.
BUMP Who could’ve done something like this?
LENNY I know who did it. That slime Randy Butler. He’s just trying to get back at Danny for being with Nadine.
BUMP Well, why didn’t he just burn Danny’s clothes?
SAM Sorry. I’ll buy you a new set of long johns. Let’s look on the bright side. At least we’re not walking.
Suddenly we hear the muffled explosion of a tire blowing out. EXT. THE HUDSON – TRAVELING The front left tire is shredded. The car begins to swerve and then slides to an abrupt halt at the side of the road.
LENNY Oh, man, why does everything have to happen to us. We’re gonna be late for the time trials.
SAM And I still have to pick up Nadine.
BUMP You aint’ gonna pick her up dressed like that.
Bump laughs heartily at his lame joke.
LENNY (impatiently) Come on…let’s go. Odd finger changes the tire.
Lenny, Bump and Sam begin to shake their fists in an up and down motion. They throw out their fingers and Sam comes up odd…again.
BUMP You lose…you change.
SAM Are you guys cheating?
LENNY How can you cheat at odd finger?
SAM (embarrassed) Would you mind pulling the car a little further into the woods?
BUMP What?...And ruin the rim?
EXT. HUDSON Sam sneaks out, crosses to the trunk of the car, removes the spare tire and covers himself with it. He proceeds quickly with the jack in hand to the left front tire – facing the road. As he bends down to remove the tire…
OBSERVER (O.S.) …Shine on…shine on Harvest Moon up in the sky…
CAMERA WIDENS TO INCLUDE AL OBSERVER I just couldn’t resist this opportunity to drop in. Warm weather we’ve been having…
SAM I suppose Ziggy didn’t know about this, either.
OBSERVER No, actually he did. I just wanted to have a little fun. I mean, I’m entitled…aren’t I?
SAM This is your idea of fun?
Suddenly we hear the sound of a siren winding down. A police car pulls to a stop next to Sam.
OBSERVER No, this is my idea of fun.
ANGLE – PATROL CAR A good old country cop climbs and approaches Sam.
CONSTABLE Danny Roberts…what do you think you’re doing?
SAM Having a very bad day. EXT. KETCHUM HOUSE – DAY – NADINE She’s standing at the roadside, impatiently checking her watch. ANGLE – RANDY’S CHEVY It screeches to a stop directly in front of Nadine.
RANDY Going to the time trials, Nadine?
NADINE (impatient) Yes. I’m going to the time trials.
RANDY You know I entered.
NADINE (searching the road) I heard.
RANDY You need a ride?
NADINE No, I don’t.
RANDY You look like you do.
NADINE Randy, I’ve got a ride…okay.
RANDY It looks like he’s running pretty late…if he’s coming at all.
NADINE He’ll be here.
RANDY I bet he forgot.
NADINE Will you leave me alone.
RANDY I just don’t want you to miss the trials.
NADINE I’m not going to miss the trials.
RANDY Well, you only got about ten more minutes.
NADINE Then I guess I better start walking.
ON THE CHEVY – TRAVELING
RANDY Why you being so stubborn, Nadine?
NADINE Leave me alone.
RANDY I’ll just follow along side you to make sure you get there alright.
NADINE You don’t give up, do you?
RANDY (serious) No, I don’t.
Randy pops the door open. Nadine takes one last look down the road. Still no sign of Danny. She reluctantly slides into the car. Randy punches the Chevy. EXT. GUS’S GAS STATION – DAY The police car pulls in next to the garage. As the dust settles, we see the boys huddled under on blanket, hot-footing it into the garage. The constable climbs out of his patrol car.
CONSTABLE Just remember that blanket is Justine Police property.
THE FORD It suddenly explodes out of the garage with the newly overalled boys inside. CUT TO EXT. RACE TRACK – DAY The race track is a beehive of activity. Cars are revving and mechanics are tuning, while the driver’s get psyched up. There appear to be around eight or ten cars that are participating in the time trials. CAMERA FEATURES NADINE She’s sitting in the pit area, watching as Randy’s crew makes some final adjustments on the Chevy’s engine.
P.A. ANNOUNCER (O.S.) Car 63, Randy Butler to the starting line please.
Randy climbs into the driver’s seat.
RANDY (leaning out of the window) This one’s for you, Nadine.
NADINE (rolling her eyes) Thanks a lot.
ANGLE – THE CHEVY It pulls off onto the track and cruises up to the starting line. The checkered flag drops and Randy powers off. PIT AREA – THE FORD Sam pulls the car up next to the stands to wait his turn. The three boys climb out. ON NADINE She spots Sam and angrily crosses toward him.
NADINE (angry and hurt) Danny, where were you? I waited and waited.
SAM I’m sorry, Nadine. We got hung up.
BUMP Yeah, we couldn’t decide what to wear.
P.A. ANNOUNCER (O.S.) And Randy Butler is coming into his final lap, and it looks as though he’s going to break a track record today if he can just keep it up.
LENNY I didn’t know Randy Butler was in this race.
BUMP That could hurt us. He’s a pretty good driver.
NADINE Danny’s better. Ain’t that right, Danny.
Sam watches with trepidation as the Chevy flies across the finish line.
P.A. ANNOUNCER (O.S.) There it is folks. A new track record by Randy Butler. STOCK The crowd cheers. P.A. ANNOUNCER (O.S.) And next up on the starting line, Car 32, Danny Fireball Roberts.
Sam stands there dumbfounded.
LENNY This is it, Fireball…we’re up.
SAM (to himself) Al…we’re up…where are you?
Nadine leans over and gives him a kiss.
NADINE That’s for luck.
Sam crawls into the car and starts the engine. We hear the gears grind. ANGLE – THE FORD Sam pulls the car onto the track and rolls up to the checkered flag. INT. FORD – SAM He’s looking around the car for Al.
SAM Al, this is no time to fool around. I’ve gotta do this and I don’t know what I’m doing.
EXT. TRACK The green flag drops and the Ford doesn’t budge. The flag man drops it again. Still nothing from the Ford. P.A. ANNOUNCER (O.S.) Roberts appears to be having some trouble getting started down there. INT. FORD – SAM He’s looking at the flag man who is now waving the flag furiously.
OBSERVER (O.S.) Lesson number one, Sam…
CAMERA WIDENS TO INCLUDE AL He’s seated in the back seat now wearing a racing outfit.
OBSERVER When that flag drops, you go.
Sam floors it and the car bolts forward. EXT. TRACK – THE FORD Comes roaring down the straight into the first turn. INT. THE FORD – SAM He sees the turn approaching. INSERT – SAM’S FOOT He pulls it off the gas and puts it on the brake.
OBSERVER No, Sam…don’t brake! You’ve gotta snap left and break the rear end loose. Then a sharp right into a reverse lock and plow through the turn.
SAM What are you talking about?
OBSERVER Let her slide.
INSERT – SAM’S FOOT It goes back on the gas pedal and accelerates hard. EXT. THE TRACK – THE FORD The care begins fishtailing into the turn. EXT. PIT AREA – NADINE, LENNY AND BUMP The three are cheering Sam on.
BUMP He’s looking a little squirelly out there.
LENNY (defensively) He’s doing just fine.
Nadine spots Randy’s care pulling into the pit area. Randy gives her the thumbs up sign. Ignoring him, she turns back to the track.
NADINE (yelling) Come on, Danny!
INT. FORD – SAM He’s correcting the wheel as he comes out of the turn.
OBSERVER That’s it Sam, feel the dirt…feel the dirt.
SAM I’m not feeling it, Al.
OBSERVER Punch it Sam…punch it.
Sam hits the gas and the Ford accelerates forward. EXT. TRACK – THE FORD The car powers around the track, it’s obvious that Sam is having a hard time controlling it.
P.A. ANNOUNCER (O.S.) …And Fireball Danny Roberts is coming into his final lap ladies and gentlemen.
The Ford powers down the straightaway, crosses the finish line, and takes the checkered flag.
P.A. ANNOUNCER (O.S.) And car 32 has just qualified for the Tri-State 200.
ANGLE – LENNY, BUMP, AND NADINE Lenny, Bump and Nadine stare wide eyed at the track.
LENNY He did it.
BUMP I don’t know how, but he did do it.
NADINE That sure didn’t look like Danny driving out there.
LENNY Maybe that crash changed him…sometimes they lose the edge.
INT. FORD – SAM AND AL Sam lets out a sigh of relief.
SAM Thanks, Al. I couldn’t have done it without you.
OBSERVER You almost didn’t do it with me.
EXT. PIT AREA – THE FORD Sam pulls the car to a stop and climbs out. Nadine wraps her arms around Sam and plants a big kiss on his lips. LENNY How ya feelin’ Danny?
SAM Pretty good.
BUMP You looked a little squirelly out there. Is the car runn’ okay?
SAM (uncomfortable) The car’s running fine. I was a little nervous.
LENNY Yeah, once you get out there with all those other cars, you’ll be your old self again.
EXT. CHEVY PIT AREA – RANDY The good old boys are slapping him on the back and congratulating him for his record setting time. At that moment he notices Nadine walking with Sam and his friends toward the concession stand. His expression changes. He doesn’t like what he sees. EXT. CONCESSION STAND It’s a small, open air refreshment stand. A banner across the top reads BARTLES & JAMES FRUIT COOLERS. Sam, Nadine, Lenny and Bump approach the counter. Two men that look like younger versions of BARTLES AND JAMES are standing behind the counter ready to serve. One of them speaks a lot, the other says nothing.
BUMP Four coolers, please.
SAM Bartles and James. Wait a minute, is there any wine in these?
BARTLES No, but that ain’t a bad idea. Then maybe we could call it a wine cooler.
He turns to his skinny partner standing next to him.
BARTLES What do you think, Ed?
Ed nods once.
BARTLES Ed likes it.
Sam puts the money down for the fruit coolers.
BARTLES Thank you for your support.
ANGLE – RANDY APPROACHES
RANDY Come on, Nadine…I’m leaving.
NADINE Bye.
RANDY Bye? I think you forgot who you came with.
NADINE No, I didn’t. You have me a ride but I’m with Danny.
RANDY Nadine, I don’t want to argue about this in front of everybody. You came with me…you’re leaving with me. That’s all there is to it.
SAM (stepping in) Look, Randy. She doesn’t want to go home with you…okay?
Randy shoves Sam aside. RANDY You stay out of this, trash.
Randy grabs Nadine’s hand. A small group of people have gathered.
RANDY Come on, Nadine…we’re leaving.
Randy pulls Nadine along with him.
NADINE (attempting to pull away) Randy, you’re hurting me.
SAM (grabbing Randy by the arm) Okay, Randy…that’s enough.
Randy wheels around with a wide right cross. Sam ducks as Randy’s swing misses. Sam follows it with an elbow to the back which sends Randy sprawling into the dirt, flat on his face.
RANDY You’re dead, Roberts.
An enraged Randy picks himself up and charges at Sam, head first. Sam neatly side steps and once again Randy’s fall is broken by the ground. The crowd is beginning to laugh a little. Randy picks himself up again, this time a little more slowly. ON SAM He’s preparing himself for the next charge.
LENNY Good move, Danny.
BUMP Yeah, take him down, again.
OBSERVER (O.S.) Sam, what are you doing?
WIDEN TO INCLUDE AL OBSERVER You’re not supposed to be fighting. Remember, the eye.
SAM I remember. Randy staggers to his feet. This time he doesn’t charge Sam. He stalks him. Sam assumes a defensive karate position. He takes a swing at Sam and misses. He takes another swing and misses, again. This sends him flying against the concession stand knocking his wind out. SAM It’s over Randy.
CLOSE ON RANDY He’s draped over the counter in a fury. He grabs a soda bottle, spins around, and swings it toward Sam’s head.
OBSERVER Sam…look out.
Sam tries to duck but he’s too late. The bottle smashes against the side of his head. ON NADINE She’s horrified, as are Lenny and Bump.
NADINE (screaming) Danny!
ON SAM Sam drops to his knees, clutching his head. The blood is now gushing out. Sam collapses in a heap, and we… FADE OUT
END ACT THREE
FADE IN INT. DOC HANDY’S OFFICE – DAY – SAM Sam is laying on an old examining table. Doc Handy, 60ish, downhome type, is stitching up the cut on the side of Sam’s head. SAM’S P.O.V. We see through Sam’s blurred eyes the hazy images of Doc Handy, Nadine, Lenny and Bump. RESUME SAM He jerks back in pain as Doc Handy ties off the final stitch.
DOC HANDY Pretty lucky…another half inch and you would’ve lost that eye.
NADINE (to Sam) …Thank God you’re alright.
SAM I’m having a little trouble seeing.
DOC The swelling is putting pressure on your eye. You’ll be seeing just fine in a couple days.
Sam slides off the table and with Bump and Nadine’s help crosses to the door. Lenny stays behind with the doctor.
LENNY The race is tomorrow. Will he be able to drive?
DOC It’s up to him.
A look of concern crosses Lenny’s face.
CUT TO EXT. NADINE’S HOUSE – NIGHT The Ford pulls up. Bump is driving. Lenny is next to him in the front seat. The door opens and out climb Nadine and Sam. Sam walks her up the driveway, toward the house. ANGLE FRONT PORCH Nadine stops abruptly at the bottom of the steps and turns to Sam.
NADINE (conspiratorily) Danny, I just got a great idea… let’s elope.
SAM (stunned) What?!?
NADINE (excited) …Tonight. We could drive down to Atlanta. Get the license, and be married before morning.
SAM Nadine, I can’t do that.
NADINE Why not? I thought you wanted to get married.
SAM Well…I do, but I have to race tomorrow.
NADINE (after a beat) I guess I’m just scared you’ll lose.
SAM I’m not going to lose.
NADINE How can you be so sure?
SAM Because Bump, Lenny, you and me have to get out of this town. …And tomorrow is the first step.
NADINE You know I love you.
SAM That’s another reason why I can’t lose.
Sam kisses Nadine gently on the forehead. Suddenly the screen door swings open and Frank Ketchum emerges from the house.
FRANK (angry) What’s going on here? (to Sam) I thought I told you to stay away from my daughter.
NADINE Daddy…
SAM Mr. Ketchum, why won’t you at least give me a chance?
FRANK …Get off my property.
NADINE (protesting) Daddy…stop!
FRANK (sternly; to Nadine) Get in the house!
Nadine doesn’t move.
FRANK (CONT.) Now, Nadine!
Nadine exits into the house, crying. Frank begins to follow.
SAM You know you’re going to lose her.
Frank turns back to Sam.
SAM (CONT.) She loves you a lot, but she’s not going to let you ruin her life.
FRANK You got a lot of nerve talking to me that way.
SAM I’m sorry, but it’s only because I care about her.
Sam turns and walks down the driveway, leaving Frank standing on the porch, close to thinking. EXT. GARAGE – NIGHT – SAM He is standing outside staring up into the starry night. He looks troubled. In the B.G. the Ford’s hood is up and Lenny and Bump are working on the engine.
OBSERVER (O.S.) Pretty night, isn’t it?
CAMERA WIDENS TO REVEAL AL
OBSERVER You’re lucky you can see it.
SAM I couldn’t help it Al. I had to fight him.
OBSERVER I know Sam…Look, at least you saved the eye.
SAM So why am I still here?
Al punches some data into his hand computer.
OBSERVER Ziggy’s drawing a blank.
SAM I’m going to have to race tomorrow, aren’t I?
OBSERVER It looks that way.
ON LENNY AND BUMP They are standing by the car watching Sam talking to himself. BUMP Who’s he talking to?
LENNY I don’t know, there ain’t nobody there.
BUMP I’m getting real worried about him.
LENNY Yeah…so am I.
ON SAM AND AL Sam notices Lenny and Bump watching him as if he’s insane. He walks out of their line of vision. SAM You’ll be there tomorrow, won’t you Al?
OBSERVER Are you kidding…I love a good race. AL – SFX The imaging chamber door opens. Al steps inside.
OBSERVER See you at the starting line.
The imaging chamber door closes and Sam is left alone and we… SMASH CUT TO EXT. RACE TRACK – THE FOLLOWING DAY The bleachers are filling up with excited spectators. The sounds of revving engines and screeching tires fill the air. PIT AREA – THE FORD Bump is bent over the front fender making some last minute adjustments to the engine. Lenny is polishing the windshield. Sam is impatiently checking his watch and looking into the bleachers.
LENNY (to Sam) You OK, Danny?
SAM Yeah…I was just wondering where Nadine is.
LENNY You better stop worrying about Nadine and start thinking about the race.
Bump revs the engine loudly.
BUMP (yelling over the engine) Would you listen to that…It’s like a pretty girl singing a song and it’s all about winning.
SAM’S POV – THE BLEACHERS Nadine and her parents are making their way to their seats. Nadine spots Sam and waves. Mr. Ketchum gives Sam a disapproving look and escorts Nadine firmly to her seat. RESUME SAM He half-heartedly waves back.
P.A. ANNOUNCER (O.S.) Will the drivers take your positions at the starting line please.
LENNY You better get moving, Danny. They’re lining up.
BUMP Yeah…We don’t want to race to start without you.
Sam is about to climb into the car when Lenny stops him.
LENNY Good luck. Win it for us.
Sam nods and climbs into the car. Bump slams the hood down and gives Sam the thumbs up sign. Sam returns the sign, shoves the car into gear, and slowly moves onto the track. EXT. TRACK – STARTING LINE Eight cars are lined up. Sam maneuvers the Ford into his starting position, which is toward the rear of the pack. INT. FORD – SAM He and the other drivers are revving their engines as Randy’s Chevy pulls to a stop next to the Ford. He and Sam exchange looks. Randy revs the Chevy’s engine and powers the car up to his pole position. ANGLE – THE FLAGMAN He approaches the starting line.
P.A. ANNOUNCER (O.S.) Ladies and gentlemen, the annual Tri-State 200 is about to begin. Good luck, gentlemen, and may the best man win.
The sound of redlining engines fill the air. ON THE FLAGMAN The following action is in slow motion: he raises the flag. ON NADINE, ROSE AND FRANK We see the tension in Nadine’s face. ON LENNY AND BUMP We can see the hope and concern in theirs. INT. FORD – SAM We see a determination in Sam’s face that we haven’t seen before. EXT. TRACK – THE FLAGMAN The flag drops and the race is on. Cars maneuver wildly for position as the pack roars down the straightaway. INT. FORD – SAM His adrenalin is pumping as he tries to keep up with the rest of the pack.
OBSERVER (O.S.) That’s very good, Sam… CAMERA WIDENS To reveal Al OBSERVER (CONT.) The flag came down and you went forward. You’re learning.
SAM Thank you…Now what?
OBSERVER Find your openings and move in.
Sam looks around and sees nothing but a solid wall of cars.
SAM Move in where?
OBSERVER On the left…Now!
Sam cranks the steering wheel hard to the left. EXT. TRACK – THE FORD It slips into an opening and accelerates forward. INT. FORD – SAM AND AL Sam is threading the needle between two cars. He makes it just as they close in.
OBSERVER Get ready for the turn, Sam. (beat) Now! Brake the wheels and slide, baby, slide!
EXT. TRACK – THE FORD Slides through the turn with the rest of the pack. INT. FORD – SAM He holds the wheel steady as the car completes the firs turn.
SAM (excited) I’m sliding, Al…I’m sliding!
ON LENNY AND BUMP Lenny and Bump have climbed on top of a pile of tires for a better view of the track. BUMP He looks great.
LENNY He’s got a long way to go before he catches up with Randy.
ON NADINE, FRANK AND ROSE Nadine is on her feet, cheering Sam on.
NADINE (yelling) Look at him pass those cars. Go, Danny, go!
Frank watches, unimpressed. INT. CHEVY – RANDY He checks his rear view mirror and smiles, feeling good about his safe lead. EXT. TRACK – THE FORD It powers out of the turn and passes two more cars. INT. FORD – SAM AND AL Sam checks in the rear view mirror.
SAM Did you see that? I just passed two more cars!
OBSERVER Just keep your eyes on the road or you won’t get past that fence.
EXT. TRACK – STOCK The field of cars are jamming along when suddenly two cars collide. They spin out and two other cars collide into them. All four cars are now disabled on the in-field. P.A ANNOUNCER (O.S.) All four cars appear to be out of the race.
PIT AREA – LENNY He holds up a sign as the Ford zooms by. The sign reads: "Lap 68." INT. FORD – SAM AND AL Sam is now driving with confidence as Al punches data into his hand computer.
OBSERVER Sam, Ziggy says you should drop down 3 degrees, then correct by 4% to the 18 power.
SAM What’s that mean?
OBSERVER I don’t know. (putting the computer away) Just keep doing what you’ve been doing.
EXT. TRACK – THE FORD Is moving up through the pack. As it slides into the turn, we see only 3 cars separate Sam from the leader – Randy’s Chevy. P.A. ANNOUNCER (O.S.) Fireball Danny Roberts is moving like a fireball up through the pack. EXT. TRACK – THE FORD It’s attempting to pass the number two car. Sam goes high and then drops low into the turn. The number two car can’t hold the turn. He spins out into the in-field, laving Sam directly behind Randy’s Chevy. INT. CHEVY – RANDY He checks in his rear view mirror. The Ford is closing fast. EXT. TRACK – THE FORD AND CHEVY Sam attempts the same maneuver. He goes high, and then tries to drop low, but Randy is too quick. He also drops low and clips the Ford’s front bumper. INT. FORD – SAM AND AL Sam struggles with the steering wheel, attempting to maintain control.
OBSERVER (yelling) Hold it, Sam, hold it!
EXT. TRACK – FORD AND CHEVY The battle is on. Each time Sam attempts to pass, Randy cuts him off. Sam suddenly cranks the wheel hard, dropping the car down low. Randy’s Chevy follows. INT. FORD – SAM AND AL
OBSERVER What are you doing, Sam?
SAM I’m going high, Al.
OBSERVER Not on the turn, Sam. You’ll never make it.
Sam ignores Al and cranks the wheel to the right. He powers the Ford forward and goes into the turn neck and neck with Randy’s Chevy. EXT. TRACK – CHEVY AND FORD The two cars come out of the turn. They are still running even. INT. CHEVY – RANDY He jerks the wheel hard to the right, slamming the Chevy against the side of the Ford. EXT. TRACK – CHEVY AND FORD The Ford is pressed against the track wall. Sparks fly as metal grinds against concrete. INT. FORD – SAM AND AL Sam is fighting to maintain control.
OBSERVER Jam him back, Sam! Jam him back!
PIT AREA – ON LENNY AND BUMP They watch with growing concern. BLEACHERS – NADINE, ROSE AND FRANK Nadine is on her feet. Her face, frozen in fear.
NADINE Mama, he’s trying to kill him!
Rose tries to comfort Nadine. Frank is still controlled, but his façade is beginning to crack. EXT. TRACK – CHEVY AND FORD The Chevy still has the Ford pinned against the fence as they approach the turn. INT. FORD – SAM AND AL Al is now extremely excited.
OBSERVER OK, now! Punch it and drop down!
EXT. TRACK – FORD AND CHEVY The Ford suddenly powers forward and cuts the Chevy off just as the two cars drop into the turn.
P.A. ANNOUNCER (O.S.) And Danny Roberts has taken the lead with two laps to go.
ON LENNY AND BUMP Wildly excited, they jump into the air, hugging each other. ON NADINE, FRANK AND ROSE Nadine and Rose are cheering. Frank rises and joins them. EXT. TRACK – THE CHEVY AND FORD The Chevy is now fighting to regain the lead. It rams Sam hard in the rear end, sending the Ford fishtailing into the final turn. INT. FORD – SAM AND AL Sam is correcting the wheel, trying to hold the turn.
OBSERVER Hang on, Sam. Don’t let it drift!
EXT. TRACK – CHEVY AND FORD Randy drops the Chevy low and powers up along side the ford. INT. CHEVY – RANDY He cranks the wheel hard to the right. INT. FORD – SAM AND AL Sam sees the Chevy sliding toward him out of control. EXT. TRACK – CHEVY AND FORD The Chevy broadsides the Ford. The Ford bounces off the retaining wall, and slams back into the side of the Chevy. The Chevy goes into a 360 degree spin. The Chevy careens off the fence, loses a wheel, and then slides to a stop in the in-field. INT. CHEVY – RANDY He pounds the steering wheel in a rage. He knows he’s going to lose the race. INT. FORD – SAM AND AL Sam has a look of victory on his face. He stomps on the gas and powers forward toward the finish line.
OBSERVER You did it, Sam!
EXT. TRACK – THE FORD It takes the checkered flag and the crowd explodes. CUT TO EXT. TRACK – WINNER’S CIRCLE The Ford pulls to a stop and Sam climbs out. He is greeted by a deliriously happy Lenny and Bump. Al stands in the background. ON SAM He turns just in time to catch Nadine in his arms.
NADINE You did it! You really did it!
Frank Ketchum approaches. He stares at Sam for a long beat.
FRANK Congratulations, Danny. You’ve got a great future ahead of you son.
He puts his hand out and shakes Sam’s hand.
SAM Thank you, Mr. Ketchum.
FRANK (to Nadine) I was wrong…I’m sorry.
NADINE (tearfully) Oh, Daddy…
Nadine embraces her father. Rose joins them. ANGLE – A RACE OFFICIAL Approaches carrying a large trophy.
LENNY (excited) We’re going to NASCAR! You see that trophy, Bump. We’re going to NASCAR!
SAM What do you think, Al?
OBSERVER I think you’re going, too, Sam… but not to NASCAR.
As the race official passes the trophy to Sam, an enfusion of blue light engulfs him and he… QUANTUM LEAPS FADE OUT THE END
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