Song for the Soul
Thanks to R. Joy Helvie & TVNewsCam
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QUANTUM LEAP A Song For The Soul April 7, 1963
FADE IN
INT. BACKSTAGE - NIGHT - ON SAM
An explosion of azure and white subsides into sam as he is being hustled off stage. He slams his head into a low overhang while screams and applause wash in from the wings. "My Boyfriends Back" vamps from the house band on stage.
WIDER ANGLE
Sam wears a beehive wig and a black chiffon dress. He is being pushed by two black girls in identical wigs and dresses. The smallest is Lynell. She is all of fifteen and a bundle of adorable energy. Next to her is Paula, seventeen, lanky and all attitude.
PAULA (To sam) Are you all right?
LYNELL (Thrilled) Listen, God listen, they love us!
PAULA Girlfriend, we were bad!
They slide some skin and squeal with delight. The announcer yells to the audience from the stage.
BOBBY LEE'S VOICE Y'all want more?
Screams and cheers from the crowd.
BOBBY LEE'S VOICE (continuing) Let's bring 'em back one more time! (Beat) Ladies and Gentlemen, The Lovettes.
They both turn wide-eyed to Sam; a mix of panic and delight flushes their faces.
LYNELL They want an encore! (beat) Cheree, what do we do!
SAM What?
NEW ANGLE - INCLUDING BOBBY LEE
He's slick and handsome and is all style with his conk and shiny sharkskin suit. He anxiously rushes up to the girls and Sam.
BOBBY LEE Ladies, ladies, get to it!
PAULA We don't have any more songs.
BOBBY LEE (to Sam) Just do a reprise. Cheree?
SAM Oh, no I...I don't think I...
Sam catches his reflection in a full length mirror.
SAM'S POV - INTO MIRROR
A healthy black girl, stuffed into the chiffon dress, stares back at him. Her eyes widen as she looks from the beehive wig and down to the dress. Then settling on Cheree's face, we hear...
LYNELL'S VOICE Come on Cheree.
FEATURING SAM - INCLUDING MIRROR IMAGE
His expression is one of total stun as he mouths...
SAM Oh, boy.
PAULA (calls out to the band leader) From the bridge!
They shove a reluctant Sam back on stage as we...
FADE OUT:
END OF TEASER
INT. BOBBY'S BLUE NOTE NIGHTCLUB - NIGHT - FEATURING SAM
He is hopelessly trying to get through the lyrics, not to mention the choreography of "My Boy Friend's Back."
PAULA/LYNELL/SAM 'And he knows that you've been tryin', and he knows that you've been lyin'. What made you think he believes all your lies. My Boy Friend's back and there's gonna be trouble.'
SAM AND PAULA 'Hey la de la, My Boy Friend's back. Hey la del la My Boy Friend's Back.'
Lynell wails on top, trying to hold onto the crowd all the while looking from Paula to Sam, as if he's lost his mind.
WIDER SHOT
The audience is with them for awhile, but even they are having trouble figuring out what the hell is going on. The handclaps dissipate from a rockin' full house to a measly few.
CLOSE ON SAM
He's dying. As he smiles and fakes his way through the end of the number, you have to feel for the way he's suffering.
ON GIRLS AND SAM
They can't believe what's happening. They hit their final pose and Sam scrambles to match the picture. We hold an anguished beat, and we hang on to the sound of one hand clapping, as we...
CUT TO:
EXT. CHICAGO STREET - NIGHT - ON SAM AND GIRLS
They talk and walk down a southside neighborhood street, carrying their bundles of costumes and wigs. Their makeup has been washed away and they are dressed in cotton dresses of the period. For the first time you can see how young these girls are. In the distance a street gang harmonizes a "Do Wop".
LYNELL'S VOICE You must have hit your head a lot harder than you thought.
CUT TO:
NEW ANGLE
Sam looks around him, a little uncomfortable about the area they are walking in. They pass an occasional wino.
SAM Uh...yeah. I guess I did.
PAULA (angry) We could have won. (beat) That would have been a hundred dollars, new costumes and a shot at the finals.
LYNELL Bobby Lee said we could come back and try again.
PAULA He was scopin' you so hard, he would have said anything.
LYNELL That's not true. He just saw that Cheree hurt herself and wanted to give us another chance.
PAULA We should have won.
Paula notices Sam checking out the street.
PAULA (continuing; to Sam) Now, what's your problem?
SAM Well, I was just thinking that it was kind of late for you...us...to be out walking around by ourselves.
LYNELL My daddy would kill me if he knew I was her and so would yours.
PAULA Cheree's old man doesn't stay home long enough to know when she's gone.
RAG HEAD TEEN'S VOICE Hey baby, come on over here and talk to me.
The "Do Wop" dissipates into cat calls and whistles.
NEW ANGLE - INCLUDING THREE HARD-LOOKING BLACKS
They lounge all over the stoop of a run-down Brownstone. Garbage is strewn around them.
PAULA Now, who the hell would want to talk to your ugly ass?
SAM Paula...
RAG HEAD TEEN You're talkin' to me, Paula. Come on, bring your fine brown body over here...
PAULA I said I don't talk to night crawlers. So why don't you just crawl back into whatever hole you crawled out of.
The boys start to get up and Paula stops defiantly and puts her hands on her hips. Sam grabs Paula by the arm and pulls her along.
LYNELL Damn, Paula!
SAM (to girls) Just keep walking.
The boys circle around in front of them. The Rag Head stops Sam.
RAG HEAD TEEN What about you darlin'? 'Cause you know I like me some tall, healthy woman.
SAM Why don't you and your friends just go on back and sit down.
RAG HEAD TEEN Why don't you just sit down with me?
LYNELL Well, actually we were supposed to be home hours ago, and my father's gonna be real upset if...
RAG HEAD TEEN (grabbing Lynell) Well, let's give him somethin' to be real upset about.
NEW ANGLE - FEATURING SAM
Sam's moves are so fast that the youth never knew what hit him. A roundhouse kick, followed through with a straight kick, sends the boy into a mound of trash cans. The little group stands frozen in shock for a beat and then Sam takes a stance to face off the other two youths. They scramble and vanish into the night, with the Rag Head a few steps behind.
ON SAM, PAULA AND LYNELL
They are staring at Sam with their mouths hanging wide open. Sam shuffles, trying to cover and starts walking, dragging the two stunned girls with him.
PAULA How did you do that?
SAM I think we better get home.
LYNELL We live this way. (turning the corner) Cheree, I think we better get you to the hospital. I mean, somethin' must of really happened when you hit your head.
PAULA Are you crazy? That bump turned this child into some kind of supergirl.
Paula mimics one of Sam's moves like a dance step.
PAULA (continuing) Maybe we can put some of it in the act. (beat) I love this move.
SAM I...really don't know what happened back there. But I do know young girls shouldn't be walking the streets at two in the morning.
LYNELL Especially one with a mouth like Paula.
PAULA I can take care of myself!
LYNELL Yeah, right.
NEW ANGLE
They turn the corner and head past a row of old Brownstone houses. They stop and head down some steep steps to a basement door. Lynell hands her bundle to Sam. Her voice drops to a whisper and she begins to work the lock with a hidden key.
LYNELL (continuing) All I know is if Cheree hadn't done whatever it was she did, you'd be tellin' my daddy about it 'cause I'd a made sure I was dead. (reaching for bundle) Are you gonna spend the night?
SAM Well, no, maybe I better...
MAN'S VOICE Maybe the three of you better...
WIDER ANGLE - INCLUDING REVEREND WALTERS
He's a tall, imposing man of about fifty. He stands before them wearing a simple sweater and a stern look. Reverend Walters voice explodes like a cannon in the night.
REV. WALTERS ...get your hides right through this door and do some serious explaining about what my daughter is doing out until two in the morning.
Paula, Sam and Lynell look like deer caught in someone's headlights, wide-eyed and frozen.
REV. WALTERS (continuing) I said, inside!
SAM'S VOICE OVER Leaping into other people's lives has taught me never to judge a book by its cover, as well as many other equally cliche, but useful, sayings.
Sam and the girls march sheepishly inside, as we...
CUT TO:
INT. WALTERS HOME - MIRROR SHOT
The girls sit quietly in a row on the living room couch looking down at their hands while the Reverend preaches to them about the sins of singing in nightclubs. Lynell is in tears.
REV. WALTERS SAM'S VOICE OVER ...and you certainly aren't I liked this man. Even with old enough or experienced all his blustering and enough to understand the bravado, Reverend Walters kind of people who frequent was actually saying places like that. Not to everything that I had mention the fact that three wanted to say since this young girls have no place leap started. His concern on the streets of Chicago for his daughter's safety unescorted at two o'clock and well-being was as in the morning. And since grounded in as much reality you are foolish enough to as the walk we just took not understand the dangers home. of life in a big city...
NEW ANGLE
Camera pans around with the pacing Reverend to reveal Sam sitting on the couch.
REV. WALTERS So, I've taken it upon myself to call your parents and tell them what's going on and how you children have lied to us.
LYNELL We wouldn't have to lie if you'd come hear us, Daddy.
PAULA We're really good, Reverend.
REV. WALTERS I will not support my fifteen-year- old daughter singing in a brothel.
PAULA It's not a brothel!
REV. WALTERS Paula, your mother is waiting up for you right now and Cheree, since your parents are...not in...you are staying with Lynell and I, until they come back.
LYNELL I...I don't think you understand how important this is to us, Daddy.
REV. WALTERS (to Lynell) What's important is that you understand there will be no more nonsense about singing in nightclubs.
NEW ANGLE - FEATURING LYNELL AND REVEREND WALTERS
Lynell stands in terrified defiance, her small frame dwarfed under his strong angular shoulders. She unleashes a rage of anger.
LYNELL It...it's not nonsense.
REV. WALTERS Not finishing school is nonsense. Not getting your degree is nonsense. Not becoming...
LYNELL I want people to hear me sing!
REV. WALTERS You can sing for God and my congregation.
LYNELL God gave me a voice to do with whatever I want.
REV. WALTERS Not as long as you are under my roof.
LYNELL Then I'll leave!
SAM Lynell!
LYNELL (to Sam) I won't let him lock me away in this miserable house. I killed mama and I won't let it kill me too!
With that Lynell runs out of the room, trying desperately to hold onto her emotions.
REV. WALTERS Lynell! Lynell Walters! (beat) You come back here.
NEW ANGLE - ON ALL
Sobbing, Lynell races up the stairs to her bedroom. Paula is on her feet and about to go after her when Reverend Walters holds her back.
REV. WALTERS (continuing) Let her go, Paula.
Paula turns on the Reverend. He is crestfallen by his daughter's words. His eyes never leave the empty stairs.
PAULA She didn't mean that, Reverend. I swear she didn't.
REV. WALTERS (softly) But she did. She still misses her mother. (beat) I love her and I have to do what I believe is right. She'll understand that when she grows up. (to Paula) I better walk you home. Your mama's up waitin' for you.
SAM I'll walk her home. Why don't you go talk to your daughter.
The Reverend smiles.
REV. WALTERS And then who's gonna walk you back here?
PAULA Cheree can take care of herself, Reverend. You should have seen...
Sam clamps a hand over her mouth to shut her up. Sam looks into the mirror.
SAM'S POV - MIRROR SHOT - ON CHEREE AND PAULA
The two girls stand there as Paula pulls her hand away and shoots her a look.
SAM/CHEREE Of course. I don't know what I was thinking of.
NEW ANGLE - BACK ON SCENE
The Reverend Walters picks up Paula's bundle, hands it to her and then gestures toward the door. He turns back to Sam.
REV. WALTERS Tell Lynell to get you a nightgown from her mother's chest. There's a blue one that should fit you just fine. (beat) We'll all talk after services tomorrow.
With that he opens the door and gestures for Paula to exit. Paula shoots a last look at Sam and they head out, closing the door behind him.
NEW ANGLE - INCLUDING AL
He stands quietly in the b.g., watching. Sam startles a beat when he sees him.
SAM How long have you been here?
OBSERVER Long enough to hear the fireworks between Lynell and her father.
SAM She's a very angry little girl.
OBSERVER All Ziggy's come up with is that her mother dies five years ago of no apparent causes. (beat) From what little we have to put together, she just went to her bed one day and stayed there until she died, six months later.
SAM What did the autopsy say?
OBSERVER No autopsy.
SAM So Ziggy thinks I'm here to help Lynell deal with her mother's death.
OBSERVER We don't know. We're still assimilating the data.
SAM Well, what do you know?
LYNELL'S VOICE Know about what?
NEW ANGLE - INCLUDING LYNELL
She stands watching Sam with a curious look on her face. He picks up a photo of the three girls together in the living room.
SAM That...you still have this old picture of us.
OBSERVER Good recovery, Sam.
LYNELL Old? I just got that printed last week.
OBSERVER Not so good.
SAM Last week! How time flies when you're having...fun.
OBSERVER Quit while you're ahead, Sam.
LYNELL People are gonna think you're as crazy as I feel.
SAM You're not crazy.
Sam crosses next to her and the two of them sit on the sofa.
FEATURING SAM AND LYNELL
She is dressed in her babydoll PJ's and holds a folded nightgown in her arms. There is almost a reverence in the way she touches it before she passes it on to Sam. Al stands to the sides. He and Sam exchange a look. The handlink beeps.
LYNELL I'm going to be, if I don't get out of this house.
OBSERVER According to Ziggy, she runs away day after tomorrow.
SAM What happened?
OBSERVER No data.
LYNELL You heard him. He's got my life planned for the next twenty years.
SAM Your father seems to be trying to protect you.
LYNELL He wants to control me.
SAM He loves you.
LYNELL It's killing me, Cheree. The same way it killed my mother.
NEW ANGLE
Sam and Al exchange a look.
OBSERVER Don't look at me. Ziggy's working as fast as he can.
SAM I don't think your mother's death was your father's fault.
LYNELL You weren't here, Cheree. You didn't see what it was like. (beat) She had no friends. She wasn't allowed to go out, except to church.
SAM You're just angry and...
LYNELL (sadly) No, I'm not. And I'm not going to let him lock me in and make me shrivel up and die so he won't be alone! (beat) I'm hungry, want some chicken?
With that she heads into the kitchen.
NEW ANGLE - FEATURING SAM AND AL
They watch her as she exits the room. Al works the handlink.
SAM What happens, Al?
OBSERVER She runs away and tries to make it as a singer. Gets locked up in a slave contract, someone named Bobby Lee and it's pretty downhill from there on out.
SAM Downhill?
OBSERVER Drugs, arrests, crummy little clubs.
SAM And her father?
We hear the sounds of the front door opening and they both turn.
NEW ANGLE - FEATURING REVEREND WALTERS
tired and troubled. He locks the front door, his mind preoccupied with the events of the evening.
OBSERVER Dies in Seventy two after losing his church to a fire. (beat) Ziggy says he and Lynell never speak to each other again.
CLOSE ON SAM
He looks from Al to Reverend Walters and back again, as we...
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT ONE
EXT. CHURCH FRONT - DAY - ESTABLISHING - STOCK
The strains of a gospel chorus wail and fill the cloudless sky with songs of praise. Above the chorus Lynell's voice soars clear and free singing, "He may not come when you want him, but he's right on time."
CHOIR He may not come when you want him, but he's right on time. Right on, on time. He may not come when you want him, but he's right on time, on time.
INT. CHURCH FRONT - DAY - FEATURING LYNELL, SAM AND PAULA
She stands among the choir, her face glowing with the spirit of God. Next to her, Sam claps to the rhythm of the music as he watches Lynell. The organ and tambourines, as well as the handclaps of the congregation, praise the Lord.
CHOIR Same today and forever more, He'll be there, don't you worry. He will open every door. He may not come when you want him, but he on time. (Repeat) Right on, right on, Right on time, he's on time. Right on. Right on Right on. Right on.
WIDER ANGLE - ON ALL
The song ends on a sustain that's so powerful it sends shivers up your spine and then falls into the revel of praises and amens.
CONGREGATION Amen! Praise the Lord! God Almighty!
NEW ANGLE - FEATURING REVEREND WALTERS
He stands and crosses to the podium, his face reflecting power and reverence. He stops and studies his congregation. They respond to his sermon as the spirit moves them.
REV. WALTERS The voices of children. (beat) The voices of children raised in praise to the Lord God Almighty. You know what that means, brothers and sisters? It means...we are blessed.
CONGREGATION Yes, Lord. Bless the children.
REV. WALTERS Blessed are those who walk in the name of the Lord. (beat) We are blessed. But with each blessing comes the dangers of temptation. Sinful temptation that often leads those pure, sweet young spirits to stand in the fiery light of Satan himself.
CONGREGATION Save us Father! Sweet Jesus!
NEW ANGLE - FEATURING LYNELL
It's obvious by the expression on her face that she's angry at the intimation her father is preaching. She exchanges looks with Sam.
REV. WALTERS And in that burning light those innocent children lose their way to God's light. And fall by the wayside...like the seeds of the farmer that fall upon the barren rock never to take root and bear fruit. (beat) God help us save the children from damnation.
CONGREGATION Save the children.
OBSERVER'S VOICE Amen. Hallelujah!
NEW ANGLE - SAM AND AL
He stands next to Sam obviously caught up in the passion of the sermon. Sam just looks at him.
OBSERVER There's nothing like a good preacher to make you remember the devil's out there waiting to try and getcha.
SAM (whispered aside) Does that mean he got you and forgot to let go?
LYNELL (whispered aside) What?
SAM (whispered) I...uh...have to go to the ladies room.
Lynell nods and turns back as the choir stands to sing. Sam rises and crosses in front of Al, gesticulating for him to follow.
OBSERVER Got me and forgot to let go.
Al feigns mock hurt and exits. Sam makes faces of "I have to go to the bathroom" as he passes the pianist.
INT. SIDE CORRIDOR OF CHURCH - ON SAM AND AL
They slip out the door and into a narrow corridor. The choir goes into a rich spiritual. "Walk in the light of the Lord."
OBSERVER I resent your insinuations. (beat) I'll have you know that I went to Catholic schools my whole life.
SAM That was at the orphanage and only until you ran away.
OBSERVER It always amazes me what your Swiss-cheesed brain chooses to remember.
SAM I think I figured out why I'm here.
OBSERVER Ziggy says there's a ninety percent chance you're here to keep Lynell out of show business.
SAM Wrong.
OBSERVER Wrong?
SAM Wrong. (beat) I'm here to make sure her father supports her and therefore keeps their relationship intact.
OBSERVER No, no, no, Ziggy says...
SAM Ziggy has been known to be wrong.
OBSERVER So, you and I have to trust her statistics over yours.
SAM Why?
OBSERVER She keeps better records. (reading handlink) Besides, Ziggy says the day after tomorrow, you're supposed to sing in some local contest. The winner gets a hundred bucks and a guest spot at the Regal Theater.
SAM Regal Theater?
OBSERVER It's Chicago's version of the Apollo.
NEW ANGLE
Sam walks forward and peers into a side window of the church.
SAM Except Lynell didn't sing.
SAM'S POV - LYNELL
singing with the choir.
OBSERVER'S VOICE She sings, alright.
BACK ON SAM AND AL
Sam turns from the window and stares at Al.
OBSERVER Apparently she lies to her father. He finds out, traces her to the club and pulls her off stage in the middle of the show. A fight breaks out and...
SAM Lynell never forgives him.
OBSERVER Bingorooney.
SAM Then I'm right. (beat) I'm here to help Reverend Walters understand and accept his daughter.
OBSERVER How are you supposed to do that?
SAM Maybe if he saw how good we were... (realizing) ...oh no! That means I'll have to sing.
OBSERVER So?
SAM So! First of all I don't know the songs or the routines and secondly...I'm a man, not a sixteen year old girl.
OBSERVER That's never stopped you before. Besides, they'll see and hear Cheree.
SAM What does Ziggy say are the chances of winning?
OBSERVER (checking the handlink) Fifty-fifty. But I could up the odds with the right music and a few choice steps.
SAM I don't know a few choice steps.
OBSERVER (big smile) I do. I'll teach you some moves...
SAM You'll teach me some moves?
Al does a step slide a la The Temptations.
OBSERVER Sam, I saw the Regal in its prime. Smokey, the Marvellettes, Martha and the Vandellas, James Brown. (beat) All you've got to do is get your harmonies tight and remember to say...
THE LOVETTES VOICES Do you love me? Do you love me?
EXT. WALTERS HOME - DAY - ESTABLISHING
The row house sits like a cookie cut out of the two that rest on either side. In the heart of Forty-seventh street, their home has the grace of a cared-for property. A rough piano track with drums, plays on the Wallensack tape deck underneath their voices.
THE LOVETTES VOICES Do you love me? Do you love me? Do you love me? Do you love me?
Now that I can Dance. Dance, Dance, Dance!
INT. LYNELL'S BEDROOM - MIRROR SHOT
The three of them strike poses in the mirror to the rhythm of the music...hands on hips and then in the air singing as they struggle through the new positions. There is something strange about the movements, as we pull back to reveal...
PULL BACK - INCLUDING SAM AND AL
Al(who doesn't reflect in the mirror) stands in front of the group and strikes a pose. Sam follows and Paula and Lynell copy him.
LYNELL I can mash potatoes.
SAM/PAULA/AL I can really groove.
LYNELL I can do the twist.
Paula is getting frustrated. Lynell is doing the best she can.
PAULA SAM/AL I don't get these steps. I can really move.
OBSERVER LYNELL Trust me, Sam. These moves Won't you tell me baby. made The Temptations famous. PAULA/AL SAM Tell me baby. These steps are ahead of their time. LYNELL Are you in the mood? PAULA These steps are out of time. ALL (beat) Are you in the mood. Tell Damn, Cheree, you're movin' me! Tell me! Tell me! like a white girl.
OBSERVER Stay with me, Sam.
NEW ANGLE
Sam rolls his eyes to heaven as they start to fall into a groove. The song lays into the ending vamp and even Sam looks like he's starting to have fun.
LYNELL I can mash potatoes.
SAM/PAULA/AL I can really groove.
LYNELL I can do the twist.
SAM/PAULA/AL I can really move.
LYNELL Won't you tell me baby.
SAM/PAULA/AL Tell me baby.
LYNELL Are you in the mood.
ALL Are you in the mood. Tell me! Tell me! Tell me! (beat) Hey push push. Aw shake it shake it baby. I can really move. Push push. Aw shake it shake it baby. (beat) Now that I can dance...dance...dance. Watch me now. Hey, push.
They punch the ending and freeze for a beat in a "Supremes" type pose. Then break and squeal with delight, applauding themselves.
OBSERVER Don't be too thrilled. You guys still need a lot of work.
SAM We still need a lot of work.
PAULA We'll be terrific!
LYNELL Yeah, but we're doing the wrong song.
PAULA 'Dance' was a number-one hit.
LYNELL But that's just it, it was...we need something hot.
Sam looks to Al. Al dives on the handlink.
SAM Lynell is right. We need something with some real fire.
PAULA What?
OBSERVER 'Mickey's Monkey?'
SAM Mickey's Monkey!
LYNELL What?
OBSERVER Oh. No. It won't be out for another month. 'Can I Get A Witness'?
Sam starts to speak, but Al cuts him off.
SAM Uh...
OBSERVER Never mind. Not out.
PAULA What? What!
BOBBY LEE'S VOICE How about 'Heat Wave'?
NEW ANGLE - FEATURING BOBBY LEE
He stands in the bedroom doorway looking wickedly handsome and holding a slip covered forty-five. The girls are stunned and Sam and Al are suspicious.
BOBBY LEE It's by Martha and the Vandellas and I just so happen to have a pre- release on it.
OBSERVER Who's this jabon?
SAM How'd you get in here, Mister Lee?
BOBBY LEE (piano smile) I told you to call me Bobby.
Al starts a rundown on Bobby. It's obvious that Lynell has a crush on him. But she's more afraid of her father than of her emotional attraction.
LYNELL My father will get upset if he finds you here, Bobby.
PAULA He'll be more than upset, honey. We're talking murder in the first degree.
CLOSE ON LYNELL AND BOBBY LEE
He crosses uncomfortably close and stands next to Lynell. He strokes her cheek as he talks to her, his eyes locked into her eyes. There is some definite heat between them and Lynell is totally overwhelmed.
BOBBY LEE Well, that's because a lady would never entertain a gentleman in her bedroom.
SAM Well, since you understand that, why don't we go downstairs.
BOBBY LEE It's not my fault, you see. There I was, walking down the street, and I heard that sweet, sensual voice of yours riding on a cool breeze. So I walked up to the door and knocked. But nobody came. So I knocked a little harder and... (gesturing the door) ...it opened.
Al steps into the shot.
OBSERVER Watch him, Sam. This guy's slicker than spit on a pair of patent leather shoes.
WIDER ANGLE - INCLUDING AL
Sam steps in between Bobby and Lynell and breaks the moment.
SAM You shouldn't be here.
BOBBY LEE Lynell knows I mean no disrespect.
OBSERVER Trust me, Sam. This is a snake.
SAM I'm sure you didn't. So why don't you leave.
He kisses Lynell's hand and steps back near Paula, handing her the record.
BOBBY LEE I still meant what I said about this song. (beat) You girls sing this tomorrow night and you are a cinch for first place and a shot at the Regal. (beat) Especially with a voice like Lynell's.
LYNELL We don't have charts for the band or...
BOBBY LEE Can you learn the song?
PAULA/LYNELL Well, yeah.
BOBBY LEE Then I'll get Rainy to do up some charts. He knows your keys.
SAM Why?
Bobby Lee cuts Sam a look. The handlink goes wild.
BOBBY LEE 'Cause I believe in talent. And if you win, you sign an exclusive contract with Bobby Lee and I take you all the way to the top.
The handlink starts to beep in Al's hand.
OBSERVER More like the bottom. Get this Sam. Robert Z. Lee. Small time business man. Part-time pimp.
BOBBY LEE Well? What do you say?
OBSERVER Owner of the Blue Note Nightclub, ended up doing twenty in the big house for statutory rape.
SAM Lynell?
LYNELL (in response to Sam) I...I don't know if we can get it together that fast.
OBSERVER No data.
Sam takes Bobby's arm and directs him out the door. Bobby's surprised by the brute force.
SAM Well, Mister Lee Lynell, Paula and I need to talk about this and...listen to the song...
INT. WALTERS LIVING ROOM - DAY - FEATURING SAM AND BOBBY LEE
Sam is escorting him down the stairs and toward the front door.
SAM ...before we can make a final decision.
BOBBY LEE That's a hellified grip you've got there darlin'.
SAM You don't know the half of it.
WIDER ANGLE - TO REVEAL REVEREND WALTERS
Paula and Lynell are close behind. Sam reaches the door and runs smack dab into the Reverend who's standing in the doorway watching everything. Al pops in just in time to know there's big trouble. Everyone else freezes. Like a bolt of lightening he's got Bobby by the collar, dragging him toward the door.
LYNELL Daddy!
REV. WALTERS Get out of my house!
SAM He came by to bring us a new record.
PAULA That's the God's truth, Reverend Walters. It's so new it hasn't even been played on the radio yet.
Reverend Walters slams Bobby into the door frame and then looks at Sam and the girls.
REV. WALTERS Then you better tell me why this sinner has to deliver his record to my daughter's bedroom?
LYNELL Daddy!
REV. WALTERS (flaring) I asked a question.
BOBBY LEE The fact that I don't attend your church doesn't make me a sinner, Reverend.
REV. WALTERS Even the fact that you don't attend any church doesn't make you a sinner.
(beat) But what you said to Leda Brown's little girl, that makes you a sinner.
BOBBY LEE (controlled smile) That's her word against mine. Now if you don't mind.
Bobby pries the Reverend's hands off his jacket lapels. Again Sam looks to Al. Al punches the handlink.
OBSERVER I got nothing, Sam. Whatever happened, the charges were never pressed or else they didn't stick.
REV. WALTERS Well, in my home your word has as much truth as the devil hisself.
LYNELL (exploding) Stop it! (beat) Mister Lee was trying to be nice to me, not commit a crime.
REV. WALTERS This man will only hurt you, Lynell.
LYNELL Does that privilege only belong to you?
Reverend Walters raises his hand to slap Lynell's face. He freezes as she cowers, covering her face. The group is stunned.
FEATURING LYNELL
Her eyes widen. Shock is the only emotion. He trembles, trying to control himself.
REV. WALTERS Go to your room!
LYNELL No.
REV. WALTERS You will not defy me! (to Bobby) And you stay away from my daughter or as God is my witness, I'll rip that brothel down with my bare hands.
BOBBY LEE If you step one foot into my club I'll tear you apart old man.
OBSERVER Do something, Sam. This must be where it started.
LYNELL Stop it!
SAM You better leave, Mister Lee.
Reverend Walters and Bobby are nose to nose. Sam steps in the middle and pushes the Reverend gently back toward the stairs.
SAM (continuing) Please.
BOBBY LEE I'm leaving.
Even Bobby Lee knows when it's time to go and exits out the door. Lynell moves to follow.
LYNELL Daddy, don't do this.
REV. WALTERS I'm doing this for your own good. (beat) Now come in and close the door.
Reverend Walters goes back into the kitchen as Lynell glances from Bobby to her father. As soon as the Reverend disappears, Lynell is out the door.
EXT. WALTERS PORCH - ON SAM AND LYNELL
She exits out onto the street, Sam is close behind. He grabs her arm and turns her.
SAM Lynell.
She turns and looks at Sam and then after Bobby Lee, who disappears down the street.
LYNELL He's my chance to get out of here.
SAM Maybe there's another way.
LYNELL What?
SAM I don't know.
LYNELL Then let me talk to him.
SAM Not until you give me a chance to figure out another way.
She looks after Bobby then back to Sam. Flustered, she gives Sam a look and turns going back into the house. Al pops next to Sam.
OBSERVER You better think of something, Sam.
SAM I have. (beat) I want you to get me the names of all the local record companies in Chicago. (beat) I'm going to call every one of them until I get somebody to come here The Lovettes. Maybe I can make Lynell understand there's better people out there than Bobby Lee.
CLOSE ON SAM
His eyes shift from Al to Lynell. His face is filled with concern, as we...
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT TWO
FADE IN
EXT. CHICAGO SOUTHSIDE ELL TRACKS - NIGHT -ESTABLISHING - STOCK
The city stretches out before us filled with a million faces. As they pass, each face keeps its secrets.
INT. WALTERS LIVING ROOM - NIGHT - FEATURING LYNELL
Lynell sits on the steps, staring down at her shoes and humming. After a beat, Sam comes in and crosses to sit beside her.
SAM What are you doing?
LYNELL Lookin' at my feet.
SAM (looking down) Nice feet.
LYNELL (sigh) Yep, and they're nailed down right here at forty-seventh and Ellis. Nailed down tighter than pine coffin... (looking to Sam) ...and I'm running out of air, Cheree.
Sam puts a comforting arm around her slumped shoulders.
SAM You're going to be fine.
LYNELL (funny smile) That's what my momma used to say. She'd say, you'll make it just fine Lynell. Just fine.
SAM I'm sure she meant it.
NEW ANGLE
Lynell gets up and crosses to the upright piano that sits in the corner of the room. She picks up a photo of her mother.
CLOSE ON PHOTO
She is a beautiful woman in her thirties. Alive and vibrant.
LYNELL'S VOICE She meant it until the day she decided to die.
ON LYNELL AND SAM
She stares sadly down at the photo.
SAM People don't decide to die.
LYNELL Momma did. (beat) And you know what? I think she was happy. Happy to be free.
SAM She couldn't have been happy, Lynell...not to leave a daughter she loved.
LYNELL She hated him more.
Setting the photo down.
LYNELL (continuing) She tried to leave him once. She took me and she tried to run away. But he brought us back. (beat) You know why?
SAM Because he loved you.
LYNELL Because he was afraid of what people would say about the righteous Reverend Walters if his wife had run off and left him.
(beat) It didn't matter that she was unhappy. Or that she had no life of her own. The only thing that mattered was what everybody thought. (beat) That's when she decided to die. And so will I if we don't sing in that contest tomorrow night.
SAM Singing in a talent contest isn't going to save your life.
LYNELL Bobby will give us a contract and...
SAM We don't need Bobby Lee or his contract.
He holds up a piece of paper.
SAM (continuing) I called Mister Madison Simms, he's head of Checker Records and he's willing to hear us sing.
LYNELL (excited) When?
SAM As soon as I can find a club.
LYNELL (excited) He can hear us at Bobby's club tomorrow night.
SAM No.
LYNELL We don't have a choice.
NEW ANGLE
Sam is up and pacing. He knows he is running out of time.
SAM (reluctantly) Okay, we sing in the club.
LYNELL (thrilled) Alright!
SAM But you have to promise not to sign with Bobby.
LYNELL What?
SAM And...finish high school.
WIDER ANGLE
The look of hope in her eyes changes to one of betrayal. Sam crosses to her and turns her to him.
SAM (continuing) Trust me, Lynell. It's the only way to get your father to let you sing.
LYNELL I can't change him, Cheree.
SAM I think I'm here to try.
Lynell thinks about Sam's idea. Part of her wants to believe and the other struggles with what has gone before. Finally...
LYNELL How?
SAM We'll invite your father down to see us.
Her face falls.
LYNELL Are you crazy?
SAM It's the only way. He'll accept your singing career and you accept his love. (beat) It's the only way.
LYNELL But if this doesn't work...
She turns and walks up the steps.
OBSERVER'S VOICE It doesn't work.
WIDER ANGLE ON SAM AND AL
Al stands by the steps watching as Lynell disappears upstairs.
LYNELL ...we sign with Bobby.
OBSERVER According to Ziggy, she ends up with Bobby and a miserable life.
When she's out of earshot...
SAM I don't think history can change until after I talk to her father.
OBSERVER And when do you plan to do that?
SAM Tomorrow night right before the show. You'll choreograph some steps to the new song and...
OBSERVER What about the sleaze with the perfect teeth?
SAM What he doesn't know won't hurt him and keeping Lynell out of his clutches is all that matters.
Al looks at Sam wondering if he's bitten off more than he can chew. He punches up the stats on the handlink.
OBSERVER Ziggy says this is still going to be a disaster.
SAM Tell Ziggy to have a little faith in human nature.
OBSERVER (the handlink squeals at him) She says that's the problem.
Sam looks at Al, whose look of concern only spurs him on more, as we hear...
OBSERVER'S VOICE Hands over your heart and pump those hips.
INT. BLUE NOTE CLUB - DAY - ON SAM AND GIRLS
They are dressed in rehearsal clothes and standing three across with Sam out front leading them through the moves.
SAM Then on 'itchin' in my heart, fists clenched over your heart...
WIDER TO REVEAL AL
He dances a few feet ahead of them. A waiter passes by.
OBSERVER (to waiter) Hey, watch where you're going! (to Sam) Pump those hips. Then rip and open and shoulder, shoulder.
SAM Keep the hip action. 'Tearin' it all apart'. Then tear and open your hands like this and shoulder, shoulder...
PAULA Show me that shoulder thing again.
NEW ANGLE
Sam steps back and does the whole sequence again slowly with Lynell and Paula.
SAM Then when we say, 'It's like a heat wave', both hands go up...
OBSERVER ...and shimmy down your body, real sexy and sensual...
Al is getting off on his choreography. Sam shoots him a look as if to say, 'Cool off'.
OBSERVER (continuing) Okay, okay, a little sexy.
Sam repeats the look and they put all the moves together.
LYNELL Okay, let's try it with the words. Take it from the chorus.
ANOTHER ANGLE - FEATURING BOBBY LEE
He sits at one of the cocktail tables watching Lynell, with a look of a cat about to pounce on a canary. Rainy Gregoir, the musical director, comes to the table and shows Bobby the charts. He's a fair-skinned Creole with glasses and mussed hair.
RAINY These charts are so hot I hope to hell your girls can handle them.
BOBBY LEE Lynell will do fine and that's all that matters to me. (calling out to Sam) Cheree. Rainy's made a pass on the chord sheet. You want to take a look at it.
He says something to Bobby and Bobby gestures him toward the stage.
WIDER ON AL
Sam stops the rehearsal.
SAM Uh...Okay.
OBSERVER Say 'Let's take five!'.
SAM Take five everybody. (aside to Al) I forget, can I read music?
OBSERVER You have a doctorate in it
SAM Oh. Good.
Sam and Rainy meet by the first row of tables. Sam and Al study the chart while Lynell looks on. Paula slips into the wings and after a beat something catches Lynell's eye.
NEW ANGLE
We see Bobby crook a finger to Lynell. She smiles and looks around then slips over to talk to him.
CLOSE ON BOBBY AND LYNELL
He leads her off into a shadowy corner of the club where they can talk privately.
BOBBY LEE You ladies are going to be fantastic.
LYNELL There's so much to do and it's already one o'clock.
BOBBY LEE You'll be perfect. (pulling her away) Come here, I want to show you something.
INT. BACKSTAGE WINGS - ON LYNELL AND BOBBY
He takes her into the dimly lit corridor that leads to the dressing rooms. Lynell is uncomfortable and hesitant.
LYNELL Where are we going?
BOBBY LEE I have a little surprise for you.
He stops at a wardrobe rack and pulls back a sheet to reveal...
NEW ANGLE - FEATURING THREE SEQUIN GOWNS
Even in the dim light they sparkle and shine almost as much as Lynell's eyes.
LYNELL Oh Bobby, they're beautiful!
BOBBY LEE I had them made for a girls group I was puttin' together but...things didn't work out. (beat) I want you girls to wear them tonight.
LYNELL (thrilled) Oh, Bobby!
BOBBY LEE Now they're just on loan until you're under contract and start earning some real money. Then you can pay me back.
LYNELL I...I don't know what to say.
CLOSE ON BOBBY AND LYNELL
He smiles as he runs his fingers down her neck. She is caught in his eyes. Slowly his face moves toward hers.
BOBBY LEE Darlin' you don't have to say a thing.
He kisses her passionately, pulling her body into his and taking her breath away. There is a moment of resistance but she doesn't have a chance. As the kiss intensifies, we...
CUT TO:
INT. STAGE - ON SAM, AL AND RAINY
They finish up some minor changes.
SAM Then vamp for twelve bars and punch the end.
OBSERVER Oh, tell him if there's a big applause, be ready to come back in.
SAM If we've got the crowd, be ready to go back in at the coda.
RAINY Smokin'. (beat) You ladies pull this one off, ain't nobody to stop you.
SAM That's what I'm countin' on.
Rainy smiles and walks off leaving Sam and Al. After a beat, Paula walks back on from the other side of stage.
PAULA Everything together?
SAM I don't know about everything but the charts are...smokin'.
Sam is so proud of himself for being hip. Al just rolls his eyes.
PAULA Well, we better get our chocolate behinds in motion of we're gonna look like a bunch of amateurs from the boonies.
SAM You got it.
OBSERVER Where's Lynell?
SAM Yeah, where's Lynell? (calling out) Lynell! Lynell!
There's no answer. Al punches up the computer.
OBSERVER I'll center in on her and give you a holler.
He pops out.
INT. BACKSTAGE - DAY - ON BOBBY AND LYNELL - CONTINUOUS
She struggles in his embrace. Her blouse pulled up, her small arms pushed against him. Al pops in.
BOBBY LEE Come on, baby. Just relax.
LYNELL Bobby, please. Please, stop.
OBSERVER'S VOICE Sam!
BOBBY LEE I like it when you struggle.
OBSERVER'S VOICE Back stage. Hurry!
CUT TO:
INT. STAGE - FEATURING BOBBY, LYNELL AND AL - SFX
Bobby is getting more aggressive. He pins her to the wall and kisses her. By now she is a frightened little girl in tears. Al grabs through them trying to defend Lynell.
LYNELL You're hurting me!
OBSERVER Sam! (to Bobby) Take your hands off of her, you slime!
Sam rounds the corner and in a flash, assessing the situation, pulling Bobby away from her. Bobby pushes Sam away and out of reflex, Sam slugs him, knocking him to the ground at Paula's feet. She looks from a very pissed Bobby to Sam.
PAULA Damn.
BOBBY LEE (getting up) Don't you ever lay a hand on me, bitch!
SAM Then keep your hands off...
BOBBY LEE I wasn't doin' nothin' she didn't want.
LYNELL You...you were hurting me.
OBSERVER'S VOICE As far as I'm concerned you can hit him again.
BOBBY LEE Hurtin' you? You don't know the meaning of the word.
SAM She doesn't have to learn it from you.
BOBBY LEE (to Lynell) You want to sing in my club, you take whatever I dish out.
SAM We don't need you or your club.
LYNELL Cheree!
FEATURING LYNELL
She is torn and frightened. She looks back from Sam to Bobby Lee. Her young life and all its dreams are falling apart in front of her.
BOBBY LEE You better apologize.
LYNELL I...I...
OBSERVER Don't do it!
SAM We don't need him.
BOBBY LEE Then leave. (to Lynell) You want to to perform tonight, you be here with my apology or forget it.
With that he exits rubbing his sore jaw.
NEW ANGLE - ON ALL
Lynell is freaking.
LYNELL What have you done!
OBSERVER He just saved your neck!
SAM What have I done?
LYNELL We...we have to apologize.
PAULA Are you crazy?
SAM You don't need him, Lynell. We'll get the man from the record company to...
LYNELL To do what? Come see us perform in my bedroom? (beat) Now either you apologize with me or I'm going on by myself.
Lynell storms off. Paula looks after her and throws up her hands.
PAULA Now what?
OBSERVER Lynell goes on by herself, her father still breaks up the show and she still ends up alone. But this time she's completely alone. (beat) She never speaks to Cheree and Paula again.
CLOSE ON SAM
Now he's ruined everything. Off of his stunned expression we...
CUT TO:
FADE IN
INT. CHURCH - EVENING - FEATURING REVEREND WALTERS
He moves through the front pew straightening bibles and stops frozen in thought. He sits, tired and confused and stares up at the stain-glass window. After a beat his eyes close in prayer and he talks to the heavens.
REV. WALTERS (sigh) Oh, Sylvia. Some days I miss you so much. (beat) The way you laughed. The sound of your footsteps at night. The smell of your hair on my pillow. But you know what I miss most of all...your wisdom. (small smile) You always knew just the right thing to say to Lynell.
WIDER ANGLE TO INCLUDE SAM
He stands near the back of the church, listening. He walks slowly toward the Reverend.
REV. WALTERS (continuing) She won't listen to me you know. Lord help her. That child's got so much anger locked inside her. (beat) See, I used to think she was mad at you for dying and me for letting you, but Lynell...
SAM Lynell's mad at herself, Reverend.
Reverend Walters turns to see Sam. After a long beat he turns back toward the window but speaks to Sam.
REV. WALTERS I never should have let her take care of her momma. She was too young to see that kind of pain.
SAM My mom used to say, God only gives us what he knows we can handle.
REV. WALTERS She blames me.
SAM She's hurt and angry.
NEW ANGLE
Sam sits down next to him.
REV. WALTERS I've lost her.
SAM Not yet.
REV. WALTERS If I try to hold her she'll run away.
SAM Like your wife did?
REV. WALTERS Sylvia was very sick for a long time. She stopped seeing her friends and locked herself away from everybody. (beat) When she found out she was dying, she tried to run away from me.
SAM Lynell told me you stopped them.
REV. WALTERS Them? She didn't take Lynell.
SAM But Lynell said...
REV. WALTERS That's what Lynell needed to believe. (beat) After Sylvia left, Lynell cried for weeks. I finally found her mother in a hotel and brought her home.
(beat) Lynell wouldn't leave her side until they took her away. (beat) She has a right to be angry. I left them there to face death, while I went and hid in my church. (beat) And now, I've lost my little girl.
SAM Not if you stand by her. (beat) Tell her you want her to sing tonight. And you want to be there to hear it.
NEW ANGLE
Reverend Walters looks at Sam. For a moment it looks as though he's going to bend.
REV. WALTERS I can't. I want her to finish school. Be someone.
SAM Trust her to find her own reasons to finish school. Make her own choices.
Reverend Walters stands, he is weary and adamant with his decision.
REV. WALTERS She's fifteen. She has plenty of time to make her own choices. Right now she has to live by mine.
With that he walks to the back of the church and finishes gathering the bibles.
OBSERVER'S VOICE Now what?
FEATURING SAM AND AL
Al stands next to Sam. They watch Reverend Walters.
OBSERVER Ziggy says there's a seventy percent chance that Lynell goes back to the club and... apologizes to the slime bucket.
SAM So, she goes on tonight?
OBSERVER Alone. (beat) But she doesn't win. That's what really makes her desperate.
SAM What about the man from Checker Records?
OBSERVER I guess he never shows up. (beat) Sam you've got to stop Lynell. That pervert's gonna destroy her...
SAM Not if I can help it.
Sam is on his feet and heading out of the church.
OBSERVER She's at her house. I'm going to check on Mr. Sleazoid.
Al pops out as Sam disappears out the back door of the church, as we...
CUT TO:
EXT. WALTERS HOME - NIGHT - ESTABLISHING
The Chicago hawk whips at the barren branches of the front tree.
PAULA Why are you doing this?
INT. LYNELL'S ROOM - CLOSE ON LYNELL
She sits at her vanity applying makeup. The lipstick is too red, the shadow too heavy and the dress is too revealing.
LYNELL Doing what?
PAULA Don't go playin' stupid with me girl. You're gonna go give it up to that creep, so you can sing tonight.
LYNELL I'm not gonna give up nothin'. I'm gonna apologize so that 'we' can sing.
PAULA Don't use me as an excuse. You want to lay down for that old man, do it cause you want to, not for me and Cheree.
Lynell stops putting on makeup and turns to Paula.
LYNELL Bobby's just mad at Cheree. I'll tell him I'm sorry and everything will be fine.
PAULA But you shouldn't be sorry. Or have your forgotten what he tried to do?
LYNELL I just wasn't ready for what he wanted.
PAULA Are you ready now? 'Cause if you go in there talkin' a bunch of I'm sorry, he's gonna be all over you.
FEATURE LYNELL - MIRROR SHOT
She looks at herself and tries to be brave.
LYNELL I'm only fifteen...
PAULA So! To men like Bobby Lee that's woman enough.
LYNELL You're wrong.
Cheree steps into the mirror behind her.
CHEREE/SAM'S VOICE No, she's not.
NEW ANGLE - INCLUDING SAM
He stands in the doorway. After a beat he crosses over and sits on the edge of the bed next to Paula.
LYNELL Oh, don't you start too. Bobby's a business man who wants to help us and y'all are talking about him like he's dog.
PAULA If the name fits...
SAM Some men believe they should have everything they want and they don't care who they hurt to get it.
LYNELL But Bobby's not like that.
SAM Yes, he is.
LYNELL He respects my talent.
SAM I respect your talent but I'm not going to seduce you to prove it.
LYNELL (with a giggle) You're a girl.
SAM You know what I mean. (beat) You can't go to Bobby Lee by yourself.
LYNELL I will if I have to.
SAM (getting an idea) You can't go by yourself...but you can go with us.
Lynell gets up and crosses to Sam and Paula.
LYNELL You'll come with me?
PAULA (after a beat) You gonna apologize to that fool?
SAM I'll do whatever Lynell needs me to do.
Sam is heading out the door. A stunned Lynell and Paula look on.
SAM (continuing) Well, don't just stand there. We've got ourselves a contest to win.
He's out the door. Paula and Lynell squeal and hug, then bolt out the door as we...
CUT TO:
OMITTED
INT. ON STAGE - CLOSE ON MALE SINGER
A handsome black singer sings a sensual version of "Stay" to the audience.
INT. CLUB - BACKSTAGE WINGS - CLOSE ON BOBBY LEE
He stands adjusting his tie and admiring himself in the mirror. Al watches, disgusted. The band is cooking and the performer is pouring his heart out to the crowd.
BOBBY LEE (to his reflection) You, my man, are fine as they come.
OBSERVER You, my man, are the kind of jerk that gives men a bad name.
A young man of about twenty interrupts Bobby's admiration of himself.
YOUNG MAN Mr. Lee, The Lovettes are here.
BOBBY LEE (smug smile) Well, we knew that.
OBSERVER (mimicking him) Well, we knew that. (to himself) Sam, I hope you know what you're doing.
BOBBY LEE Give them the pink sequins to skip into and then bring them to me. (back to the mirror) I want them gorgeous when they crawl.
JoJo pads off in double time. Al all but growls and Bobby just gloats.
REV. WALTERS Mr. Lee? May I have a word with you?
OBSERVER (looking up) Uh oh. Gooshie center me on Sam.
With that and a punch of the handlink he pops out.
NEW ANGLE
Reverend Walters stands with his hat in his hand. If it's possible Bobby's smug smile gets smugger.
BOBBY LEE Well, well, well. (beat) You know Reverend, you said some pretty harsh words to me at your home yesterday and...
REV. WALTERS (cutting him off) What I said to you yesterday had nothing to do with why I'm here.
BOBBY LEE And why is that?
REV. WALTERS My daughter wants very much to sing in your contest.
BOBBY LEE That's up to her.
REV. WALTERS It's up to you too. And I want you to tell her no.
BOBBY LEE (surprised) Now why would I do that?
REV. WALTERS Because she's fifteen years old. Let her grow up.
BOBBY LEE (calmly) No, you let her grow up. (beat) I see kids in and outta here, year after year. Lynell's got the gift.
REV. WALTERS She'll still have it three years from now. But she'll be able to handle herself. (beat) I'm asking you as a father to help me.
BOBBY LEE What's in it for me?
REV. WALTERS I...I'll make a deal with you...you get my daughter out of here and I won't call the police and tell them you've got minors in your club
LYNELL'S VOICE I don't need you to make a deal for me.
NEW ANGLE - INCLUDING SAM, LYNELL, PAULA AND JOJO
They are visions in hot pink sequins. Bobby is pleased.
REV. WALTERS Then come home.
LYNELL I can't.
JOJO The Lovettes are on next, Bobby. What do you want me to do?
BOBBY LEE (to Sam) I'm waiting.
OBSERVER Don't say it Sam.
SAM We want to sing in your club tonight.
BOBBY LEE And when you win, you sign a seven year contract with me.
SAM If that's what Lynell wants.
PAULA Cheree!
REV. WALTERS I can't let you do this, Lynell.
SAM It's Lynell's life. She's got to decide what's important.
LYNELL I...I want to sing. Please Daddy. Please understand.
Sam crosses next to Reverend Walters.
SAM (to Reverend Walters) Tell your daughter you love her, Reverend Walters. Tell her that you trust her enough to stand by her, whatever decision she makes.
The reprise is done and the audience is chanting for the next act. The Reverend looks desperately to Lynell.
JOJO They're going crazy out there. You want me to get the next act?
LYNELL (to her father) Daddy, I...
She's a frightened little girl. The crowd chants louder.
NEW ANGLE - FEATURING REVEREND WALTERS AND LYNELL
He crosses to her and holds her face as if she's touched by a spirit. Lynell looks at her father. He smiles.
REV. WALTERS Sing Lynell. Sing with all your soul. (beat) I love you.
She smiles and hugs her father.
WIDER - INCLUDING ALL
A triumphant Bobby turns to face him.
BOBBY LEE (to Lynell) Win this and I'll take you to the top. (beat) Win for me, baby.
LYNELL (with new strength) I'll win for me, Bobby. Me.
ON STAGE - FEATURING BOBBY
He is a master MC. He has this crowd eating out of his hand.
BOBBY LEE Alright! Are you feelin' good?
THE CROWD Yeah!
BOBBY LEE I can't hear you! I said, are you feelin' good?
THE CROWD (screaming) YEAH!
BOBBY LEE Then put your hands together and get ready to stand up and party with the lovely, the vivacious, the fabulous...Lovettes!
The band kicks into a funky groove of "Heat Wave".
BACKSTAGE - ALL
Lynell looks to her father. His face is hard and cold and then as if he is touched by a spirit, he crosses to Lynell and touches her. He smiles.
REV. WALTERS Sing Lynell. Sing with all your soul. (beat) I love you.
She smiles and hugs her father, then races out on stage. Sam and Al exchange a look of triumph.
OBSERVER Alright!
ON STAGE
Sam and girls sing "Heat Wave".
SAM/LYNELL/PAULA (Heat Wave Lyrics to come)
INTERCUT WITH BACKSTAGE - REVEREND WALTERS
He watches his daughter with pride and love.
ON BOBBY LEE
looking like the cat that ate the canary and loving every minute of it.
THE CROWD
totally into it and having a party.
ON AL
Mister Soul himself in a total groove.
ON STAGE - SAM AND THE LOVETTES
having a great time. They are tight and together.
ON BOBBY LEE
A man in a silk suit whispers in his ear. Bobby's smile gets bigger. He turns back to Lynell with dollar signs in his eyes.
CLOSE ON LYNELL
She is singing her ass off.
WIDER ANGLE
The song ends to wild applause. They run off the stage.
BACKSTAGE - FEATURING BOBBY
He sweeps Lynell into his arms.
BOBBY LEE Y'all did it. You are going to the Regal.
Paula screams. Sam looks at Lynell who hugs Bobby. Reverend Walters watches the excitement and then fades back, slipping out the door. The crowd shouts for more.
PAULA We did it! We did it!
ON SAM AND AL
Sam is caught up in the excitement. Al sees the Reverend leave and nods to Sam.
OBSERVER Sam.
ON REVEREND WALTERS
He slips out the side door.
WIDER ANGLE - ON ALL
Sam starts to go after him when Bobby sweeps Lynell into his arms. She struggles to get free, looking for her father.
LYNELL Where's my father?
BOBBY LEE Who cares? All that matters now is that I'm gonna make you a star. You belong to me, baby.
LYNELL I don't belong to anybody.
BOBBY LEE We had a deal.
SAM No deal.
Sam jerks him off Lynell and slams him against the wall. He's about to punch him out when Paula grabs his arm pulling him and Lynell back on stage for the reprise. The crowd goes crazy and Lynell soars, giving a grateful smile to Sam.
CUT TO:
INT. CHURCH - NIGHT
It's dimly lit and hangs in the silence of loss. Reverend Walters sits next to his pulpit, an empty man. Sam walks up to him with Al close behind. Sam has changed out of his gown.
REV. WALTERS I've lost her forever.
SAM A profit named Gibran once said 'Hold your children with open arms and they will always know they can come home.'
REV. WALTERS (shaking his head) Too much sorrow has gone between us. I don't think she can ever forgive me for loving her the only way I knew how. (beat) I'll miss her, Cheree. I'll miss that I'll never hear her sing again.
Lynell's voice fills the church and echo the strains of "Eye on the Sparrow". Sam and the Reverend turn. Tears fill the Reverend's eyes as he moves toward her.
NEW ANGLE - She stands in her gown, backlit by a wash of light from the entry and singing with the passion of an angel.
LYNELL (song to come)
NEW ANGLE - ON SAM AND AL
They look on like proud parents who've done a good thing. Al reads the handlink.
OBSERVER She turned down the Regal, the contracts, the whole kit and caboodle and stays at her father's church. (beat) Get this Sam, the man from Checker comes through. The Lovettes have a hit that gives Lynell enough money to get through medical school. She becomes a doctor, Sam. Gets married and has three kids.
ON LYNELL AND HER FATHER
She finishes her song and touches his face. Her eyes well with tears.
LYNELL I love you, Daddy.
REV. WALTERS I love you too.
They embrace. Paula stands in the b.g. watching, happy for her friend.
INCLUDING SAM AND AL
They smile. With a small good-bye he's enveloped by a flash of Quantum blue, and...
QUANTUM LEAPS
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT FOUR
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