NOLA GREY - Start -1ST 3 PAGES - First 20 PAGES
FADE IN:
AERIAL SHOT - LSU CAMPUS
EXT. LSU CAMPUS - DAY - 2005
Students on campus, start of the fall semester, walking pass each other as they move from different areas on campus. Dorms and students centers start to fill up with student. CUT TO -
EXT. HILL MEMORIAL LIBRARY - DAY - CONTINUOUS
DEAN TALE, walk-on athlete, studying finance. DAVID TALE is a law student. Twin brothers, 22 years old, of Afro-American descent; on the campus of the LSU. Dean plays both football and baseball. Both brothers have thin, muscular builds with an athletic body types.
Dean has on a pair of dark, baggy shorts, with a white, print T-shirt with a picture of a Spike Lee on the front dressed as Mars Blackmon. David also has on the same pair of baggy dark shorts but with a red and white polo on.
Dean stands near his brother who sits on a bike rack. David is looking down into a magazine on his lap he folds his arms and starts to scratch his chin.
DAVID
What is the one thing you would change here at school?
DEAN
Nothing! This is what college life should be. There is nothing I would change. I'm able to miss home; (MORE)
all while being only a phone call away if I ever need help I can always drop a line.
DAVID
What? (beat) I ask you the one thing you would change about all of this, and that's the best you can do... telling me how you feel about home.
DEAN
Guess my mind is somewhere else.
DAVID
What are you working on today?
DEAN
I need to start on a project for my lit class.
DAVID
I'm headed over to the law center meeting up with a few of my contemporaries to work on our mock trial.
DEAN
I'm sensing something is up with you bro. You seem to be a little unfocused on something else.
2.
DEAN (CONT'D)
DAVID
It’s nothing.
DEAN
Well, (beat) I'm, starting to get one of those strange feelings I always get...
DAVID
Not this again, you and your weird feelings always getting us caught up in something.
DEAN
This time it’s different.
DAVID
It better not be anything that involves my truck or me.
DEAN
I need to get in here.
DAVID
Call me if you need me.
INT. HILL MEMORIAL LIBRARY - STUDENT AREA - DAY - LATER
Dean walks into the back area of the library. He places his bag down on the table. At the next table he notices a friend from back home.
3.
JULIE DUBOIS, tall, slender young woman, 19 year old, African
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SCRIPT TITLE
Written by
Name of First Writer
Based on, If Any
Address Phone Number
FADE IN:
EXT. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS - DAY - 2005
ANGLE ON LIBRARY DAVID and DEAN TALE are twin brothers, 19 years old, of African-American descent, both are students at Louisiana State University and live off campus together. David is a law student and Dean is a student athlete. Both stand six feet two inches tall and have a long thin muscular build, Dean is a two sport star in both baseball and football. They have both been dual enrolled in college since there sophomore year of high school and already have earned their first degree before getting to college.
PAN TO DOOR OF LIBRARY PASS THRU OPEN DOOR Both brothers are on campus before the school year starts. In the middle of a hot summer day the forecast is clear , but just on the horizon sits off shore in the Gulf of Mexico is Hurricane Katrina, a storm system with such force and power unknown to the brothers, how she will change and forever effect, Nola, New Orleans Louisiana.
INT. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS LIBRARY - DAY - 2005
POINT OF VIEW OF LIBRARIAN Dean, holds in his left hand a cell phone, on-campus working on a project before the fall semester. He starts to place it to his ear. He holds a book in his other hand. LIBRARIAN All electronics need to be off while in the library. Dean goes to voice a reply but the woman walk’s off.
ANGLE FAVORING DEAN
LIBRARIAN VOICE OVER INTERCOM (V.O.) Classes will be canceled for the rest of the week due to approaching hurricane. CUT TO:
EXT. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS - DAY - 2005 Dean is leaving the campus main library and is headed to the Paul M. Hebert Law Center where his brother is working on a mock case.
INT. PAUL M. HEBERT LAW CENTER - DAY - 2005 David is sitting in his study group his brother Dean walks into the room.
OTS ON DEAN FACING DAVID DAVID (V.O.) What are you doing here? DEAN I was going to ask you the same thing classes have been canceled. DAVID (V.O.) When did it happen? DEAN Just now in case you didn’t know there is a Category 3 hurricane in the Gulf. DAVID (sarcastically) Oh thanks, for the update I didn’t know that.
ANGLE FAVORING DEAN Dean heads outside the room waiting for his brothers study group to finish. He sits down on a wood bench in the hall way. The wall has photos and bronze plaques with commemorative inscription on the walls.
2.
They stare straight into Dean’s soul, mostly old forgotten lawyers, but one catches his eye and he starts to read the bust when David taps him on the shoulder.
OTS ON DEAN FACING DAVID DAVID (CONT’D) Ready to go. The brothers walk throughout the Law center.
EXT. PAUL M. HERBERT LAW CENTER - AFTERNOON - 2005 As they walk through campus the sun is directly over head Dean places his hands over his eyes to block the sun. David is walking slightly ahead of his brother. David is holding a black bag which he places on his shoulder. Dean has a laptop bag that he puts on his back. Dean stays a step behind his brother as they leave the Hebert Law center and move towards East Campus Drive.
OTS OF DEAN
EXT. EAST CAMPUS DRIVE - AFTERNOON - 2005 DEAN So what is on the agenda for tonight? David turns to face his brother. DAVID First things first, we need to board the house up aren’t you the one concerned about a hurricane. DEAN (jokingly) Almost forgot; the idea of school being out took me. DAVID Right.
3.
ANGLE ON EAST CAMPUS DRIVE PAN AHEAD ON FRAT BROTHERS As they continue to walk a slight breeze kicks up in the air, a group of young fraternity troops are marching. One of the brothers is carrying a stack of papers, he drops a few and Dean steps on one to stop it from flying off. DEAN What do we have here? FRAT BROTHER #1 It’s a flyer for a party. FRAT BROTHER #2 Not a party, a charity drive for hurricane relief. DAVID Oh, what kind of hurricane relief? FRAT BROTHER #1 In honor of Hurricane Katrina the brothers are throwing a charity function. FRAT BROTHER #2 Bring a can of food. FRAT BROTHER #1 Human food, no dog food. FRAT BROTHER #2 Everyone enters free, but b.y.o.b. DEAN Bring your own beer, well where are you passing out flyers classes are closed. FRAT BROTHER #2 Where headed to the student center and the Lambda house. DAVID It would be better if you two split up you’ll cover more ground. DEAN That’s my brother thinking more is best. Don’t forget the Sigma House we don’t want this little relief effort to turn into a dude ranch.
4.
EXT. EAST CAMPUS DRIVE/DALRYMPLE DRIVE - AFTERNOON - 2005 As the boys head up Fraternity row they run into other students boarding up windows and reinforcing doors. DAVID We need to hurry if we plan to do the same. DEAN Have you given any thought about mom and dad? DAVID No, but you know how dad is he’s always telling us “to take carry of home and everything else will fall into place”. DEAN Someone has to call them to see if there okay. David moves towards the car it’s a newer model, Ford, F150 2005, which is has black paint, with wheels which are the same all black. The bed in the back is covered on the inside but was open to the elements on top.
INT. FORD TRUCK/PARKING LOT OFF CAMPUS - AFTERNOON - 2005 David takes out his cell phone to dial the number for home. DAVID Hello dad, how is everything going, hold on dad Dean is with me let me put you on speaker. David takes the phone and presses the speaker button. DAD Can you both hear me? David goes to reply but Dean puts his finger of his lips. DEAN Yes, Dad we can both hear you. DAD So what’s on your minds?
5.
DAVID We’ve been thinking since our school is closed...that we can come down and help you with the house. DEAN It wouldn’t even be a big deal. DAD I know that you boys really love me and your mother but we’ve been through a number of these things we can manage for ourselves with no issues whatsoever. DAVID It’s a big storm dad and we think you and mom would be safer up here. DAD Boys I understand how you feel I’ve done all the windows and the doors and we’re ready for the storm me and your mother have lots of food. DAVID But dad. DAD But nothing, we have made up our minds, now boys you need to get your place in order and we don’t want you to worry about us any more call us if you need us we love you. Once the call was over all Dean and David could do was to look at each other with a dumb look on their faces. David closes the phone and puts it back in his pocket. DAVID That's dad. DEAN Stubborn as a mule. David starts the car and drives out of the parking lot and turns down the street leaving the campus at the corner of Lake street and West State Street. As David drives the boys turn into an old hardware store to get supplies for the Hurricane.
6.
INT. HARDWARE STORE - EARLY EVENING - 2005 DAVID We need basic supplies at this time DEAN What’s basic about supplies? DAVID Basic means just that, a few things like hammers, nails, and plywood. Dean grabs a shopping cart to place their supplies in, David moves through-out the store with his brother. DEAN Don’t you think we need to come up with a game plan just in case? DAVID Just in case...of what? DEAN Just in case worst comes to worst. DAVID You heard the old man he and mom are fine. DEAN But if we need to go get them we need a plan just in case. As they move throw the store placing items into the cart they turn down the aisle with plywood and other wood products. Looking the items over Dean looks at the different shapes and styles and is having a hard time picking out which items he wants. DAVID When that time comes we will be ready, if we have to, but right now like the old man said, we need to get our house in order, hand me some of that plywood. The boys unload their cart into the back of the truck and drive to their house which is right off campus close enough to walk, but a ways away from the chaos of on-campus life.
7.
EXT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE - EVENING - 2005 DAVID You know what we need to do? DEAN Yes sir, your talking to a seasoned pro.
INT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE - EVENING - 2005 David helps Dean bring in all the supplies into the house, the front door makes the funny sound it always makes when the key comes out the lock and the boys turn the handle carrying all the items inside. David looks around for the latter that they have stored in the garage. DAVID (O.C.) Have you seen dad’s old latter. Dean walks into the garage and points to it leaning against the wall a fire engine red latter sitting there plain as day.
EXT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE GARAGE - EVENING - 2005 DEAN Isn’t that it right there, if it was a snake. DAVID Yea, I know I would be dead. DEAN I think you are color blind sometimes. DAVID I think I am two at Christmas I never can tell green from red. Dean grabs one end of the red latter and David takes the other the boys both almost trip over the same step in from the garage. David turns off the light and grabs the door and shuts it. CUT TO:
CLOSE UP OF TELEVISION NEWS REPORT STANDING IN YELLOW RAIN COAT CUT TO:
8.
DAVID’S HAND
INT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE DOWNSTAIRS - EVENING - 2005 David is downstairs with his back to the television, he reaches his long slender skinny arm out from his body. Takes the remote off the arm of the chair and presses the volume button. Turns the sound to 100% weather man is giving his report on what the predicted hurricane models are forecasting. CUT TO:
CLOSE-UP OF TELEVISION NEWS REPORTER WEATHERMAN Estimated forecast on Hurricane Katrina. The storm has been upgraded from a tropical storm to a Category 3 will make land fall sometime Monday morning, somewhere in and around New Orleans, all residents of Saint Charles Parish, Saint Tammany Parish and Plaquemines Parish have been ordered to an mandatory evacuation, I repeat all residents of Saint Charles Parish, Saint Tammany Parish and Plaquemines Parish have been ordered to an mandatory evacuation, as for Jefferson Parish and Saint Bernard Parish have been ordered to a voluntary evacuation only.
CUT TO:
SIDE ROOF OF HOUSE DEAN IS USING A NAIL GUN CLOSE UP ON GUN THEN SLOW-MOTION VIEW OF NAIL GOING THROUGH PLYWOOD THEN PULL OUT TO NORMAL VIEW OVER DEAN’S SHOULDER HOLDING NAIL GUN
EXT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE ROOF - EVENING - 2005 The sound of quick tugs of shots from the nail gun hits the plywood forcing each nail through the wood in rapid succession.
9.
The gun repeats the firing over and over, the sound becomes fast and louder Dean raise the gun over his head to finish the last two nails and moves towards the next windows. FEMALE NEIGHBOR Hey what are you doing up there? DEAN Boarding up these windows. FEMALE NEIGHBOR Are you going to the frat party tonight? DEAN Thought did cross my mind. FEMALE NEIGHBOR So does that mean you're sitting the storm out here? DEAN Don’t know as of yet you’ll have to ask David. NEXT DOOR NEIGHBOR Will you do my house next? DEAN Sure I and my Oompa-Loompas will be right over. David walks on to the roof out side where his brother has in his hand a red hammer. DAVID Are you guys staying in town? FEMALE NEIGHBOR No, where headed to Atlanta my cousin has a place there and they’ll be out of town , you and your brother are more than welcome to come. DAVID Thank you, for the offer but...I want to stay in town my mother and father are back home in the New Orleans area and I need to stay close for them, before you go give me the number there and if any thing changes I’ll call you and let you know.
10.
As Dean finishes David helps him bring in the other supplies that were left over, they place everything in the upstairs bedroom. The last window is an old framed window and David helps Dean with it. They carefully place everything back into the garage downstairs.
INT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE LIVING-ROOM - EVENING - 2005 Dean looks at the phone and see’s the message light flashing one message, he pushes the button to listen to the message on the phones rectangular base, the phone has a speaker built into it for play back and recording and talking. As soon as the message starts Dean knows the voice, it’s the sweet sound of his mother’s voice, he jumps in the air full of delight to hear her voice he immediately picks up the receiver and places the phone number side up and starts to dial the number on the caller ID.
OTS FACING DEAN
DEAN Hi, mom how are you doing? MOM I’m fine. DEAN How’s dad doing? MOM He’s fine also. DEAN So have you given any thought about coming up before the storm? MOM I thought your dad and you boy’s already spoke about this. DEAN We did. MOM I called to tell you that the news states there is no mandatory evacuation for our parish and not to worry about me and your father. Hold on your father wants to talk to you.
11.
DAD Hi son, how are you holding up? DEAN I’m okay, just finishing work on the windows and all the doors. DAD Great, son just wanted to tell you not to worry about us I know that you boys are the youngest of the family and the last to leave the nest and we worry about you guys just as much as you worry about us, but me and your mother have been through many of these storms and we can take care of each other. DEAN I know dad but if anything happens promise that you will give us a call, and dad I do mean anything. DAD Dean you are the oldest, and I love you both the same but worrying won’t get you anywhere in life. DEAN Promise me that you will call. DAD We will call, so stop worrying, tell your brother we love him, and we miss you both. DEAN Okay dad, if you need anything, and I do mean anything, at all call. As Dean goes too hang up the phone his brother David walks into the room holding the flyer to the frat party. The flyer is an 8’ inch by 11’ inch piece of paper. David is dressed in a black button up shirt with a collar and a pair of dark blue jeans; he is wearing leather shoes and is holding the flyer in a way to point to the time on his watch to indicate their going to be late. DAVID I thought you were getting ready?
12.
DEAN I was but there was a message on the phone from mom and I wanted to give her a call back. She and dad are ready for the storm. DAVID I fear the same things as you fear. DEAN Give me a break you understand what that place means to mom and dad, there is no way either one of them are going to leave. DAVID Get ready; I’m going to grab the cans of food. DEAN Okay. David is in the kitchen grabbing cans of food; Dean comes down from a shower and is wearing a dark shirt and dark jeans with a pair of boots. The brothers leave to attend the frat party.
OTS FACING DEAN
INT. DELTA KAPPA EPSILON FRAT HOUSE - LATE NIGHT - 2005 FRAT BROTHER #1 So you made it. It’s about time. FRAT BROTHER #2 I didn’t think you guys were coming. Thanks for bring the canned food. DEAN Late but right on time. Glad to help a worthy cause. DAVID If you’re every on time. FEMALE NEIGHBOR Glad to see you made it. Did you drive?
13.
DEAN We drove if you need a ride back we can give you one. Finally the party can start. NEXT DOOR NEIGHBOR Do you need a drink? DAVID Not for me. DEAN Me either just here to show my support. FRAT BROTHER #1 We came to party. FRAT BROTHER #2 Me too brother, me too. DEAN You two don’t have that far to drive since you live here and all. After attending the frat party the brothers returned home, David puts his keys down on the table next to the door. He looks at a clock in the house notices it’s 2:00 A.M. As he moves into the living-room he notices additional messages on the answering machine. The boys sit around the device; Dean has a look of confusion on his face, while David pushes the play button.
INT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE LIVING-ROOM - EARLY MORNING - 2005 DEAN There are about five new messages on the machine. DAVID Listen to this one. It’s there older brother William, he is calling concerned about their mother and father, his voice is borderline between yelling and screaming.
14.
WILLIAM (V.O.) Dean, David I was hoping that you both would be home I concerned about Mom and Dad, this hurricane in the Gulf is headed right for home and you two are the only one’s capable of going and getting them out of there. It’s important that you go and get them out of harm’s way. Mom and Dad are older now since you two have left home they have had to depend on each other more , they’re getting older and I don’t think they can handle being in a Category 3 storm by themselves. The message stops Dean looks over at his brother’s face and reaches for the phone. Starts to punch the numbers into the phone.
OTS OF DAVID FACING DEAN DAVID Do you know what time it is? DEAN Two in the morning. DAVID This message was left hours ago. DEAN So, what are supposed to do? Mom and Dad both told us that they want to stay and not to worry about them.
ANGLE ON BOTH BROTHERS DAVID I say we go to bed get some rest and call him when we wake up. DEAN I respect mom’s and dad’s wishes and they’re not that old William only cares about himself, first thing in the morning we need to handles this.
15.
DAVID After a good nights sleep all will change and we will call William back. The boys go to their rooms on the second floor David goes right to bed, but Dean can’t he hears his older brothers message in his head and can’t sleep.
INT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE KITCHEN - EARLY MORNING - 2005 Dean is up at 7:00 AM, he’s watching the news and is listening to the weather report. He opens the refrigerator and takes out the orange juice, reaches into the cabinet and grabs a cup, pours himself a glass of juice. CUT TO:
WEATHER REPORTER CLOSE-UP OF REPORTER WEATHERMAN (V.O.) We are tracking the storm and Katrina has now reached Category 4 intensity with winds of 145 mph. As ordered yesterday Saint Charles Parish, Saint Tammany Parish and Plaquemines Parish have been ordered to a mandatory evacuation of all residents as for Jefferson Parish and Saint Bernard Parish an voluntary evacuations is in place but as of this time we are recommending that all residents evacuate. Dean eye’s open wide he drops his glass on the floor and David comes running into the room. DAVID (O.C.) What was that? Dean is on the floor with paper towels attempting to clean the mess up with little success. DEAN The storm is a category 4 now and they’re recommending that Saint Bernard residents evacuate. The phone rings on the television the caller id flashes across the screen it says William Tale.
16.
Dean reaches for the phone in the kitchen he answers it he puts the phone on speaker and places it back on the base. WILLIAM (V.O.) Good morning guys I hoped I would have heard from you before now. DEAN We got your message. DAVID But it was late, and we didn’t want to wake you when we got home. WILLIAM (V.O.) I understand I’m not going to beat around the bush I think you two need to get mom and dad out of New Orleans before the storm hits. DEAN The news reports have the storm up to a Category 4 and are recommending an evacuation of Saint Bernard’s Parish. WILLIAM (V.O.) That’s why you need to get them out as soon as possible before the storm hits. DAVID You both know how Dad is and he will never leave that home. WILLIAM (V.O.) That’s why you need to go now, it gives you more of a chance to get them both to safety, and I’m catching the next flight out of Detroit to Houston. I will try to get there to help you guys but it’s up to you to get them out there. DEAN We will. Dean hangs up the phone and looks at David. DEAN (CONT’D) We need to pack a bag bring clothes and blankets, food for a road trip, also the rest of the plywood and hammers and the nails.
17.
DAVID So, I guess we’re headed home. DEAN Yep, back to the Nola. Dean and his brother are all packed and ready to head back home. Dean is calling home to check with a friend to see what everything is like back at home.
INT. FORD TRUCK LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY AVE - DAY - 2005 DEAN Hello Matt, what’s up how you been? MATT As well as one can aspect with a monster on your door step. DEAN Trust me I know. MATT Were are you? DEAN We’re on our way back to Nola right now. I need you to do something for me. MATT Anything what do you need? DEAN Go down to the Sheriffs office and find out what the evacuation plan is and if it is going to be enforced. MATT I don’t know? DEAN I would do it for you. MATT Okay, give me fifteen minutes and I’ll call you back. CUT TO:
18.
EXT. MATT’S HOUSE NEW ORLEANS - DAY - 2005 Matt takes his skate board off his bed he stands 5 feet 8 inches tall he is a young looking 20 something generation x skater. He opens the door to his bed room in his left hand is his skate board as he opens the door to his home he drops in on it and pushes off the street.
ANGLE ON BOARD Matt takes a turn down another street as he gets to the top of the street there is a large incline his speed picks up till he slam’s into the side of a brick wall. Matt seem to be find and just bounces right of it hits the back of the board and enters the building. Once in side there are sheriffs deputy all in an uproar noisy and very busy the sergeant is sitting at his desk Matt walks up to him.
INT. NEW ORLEANS POLICE DEPT. - DAY - 2005 MATT Hi I was wondering what is the state of the evacuation and are residents having to evacuate? SERGEANT Kid tell me you have a television or radio in your home. MATT Actually I don’t. SERGEANT There is no mandatory effort at this time but we will be helping with the elderly and hospitals in the area who which to leave. MATT Oh, I see. SERGEANT While does that answer your question kid? MATT Oh yes sir thank you. SERGEANT Your welcome!
19.
Matt turns and places his skate board on the ground and drops in on it at the. CUT TO:
INT. MATT’S HOUSE NEW ORLEANS - DAY - 2005 Matt is skating into the back door of his house and opens the back door and picks up the phone. MATT Hello hey Dean your right they are not enforcing an mandatory evacuation just moving the elderly and patients from hospitals.
INT. FORD TRUCK LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY AVE - DAY - 2005 DEAN Thanks Matt you’ve been a big help I’ll see you when we get to town bye
AERIAL SHOT - LSU CAMPUS
EXT. LSU CAMPUS - DAY - 2005
Students on campus, start of the fall semester, walking pass each other as they move from different areas on campus. Dorms and students centers start to fill up with student. CUT TO -
EXT. HILL MEMORIAL LIBRARY - DAY - CONTINUOUS
DEAN TALE, walk-on athlete, studying finance. DAVID TALE is a law student. Twin brothers, 22 years old, of Afro-American descent; on the campus of the LSU. Dean plays both football and baseball. Both brothers have thin, muscular builds with an athletic body types.
Dean has on a pair of dark, baggy shorts, with a white, print T-shirt with a picture of a Spike Lee on the front dressed as Mars Blackmon. David also has on the same pair of baggy dark shorts but with a red and white polo on.
Dean stands near his brother who sits on a bike rack. David is looking down into a magazine on his lap he folds his arms and starts to scratch his chin.
DAVID
What is the one thing you would change here at school?
DEAN
Nothing! This is what college life should be. There is nothing I would change. I'm able to miss home; (MORE)
all while being only a phone call away if I ever need help I can always drop a line.
DAVID
What? (beat) I ask you the one thing you would change about all of this, and that's the best you can do... telling me how you feel about home.
DEAN
Guess my mind is somewhere else.
DAVID
What are you working on today?
DEAN
I need to start on a project for my lit class.
DAVID
I'm headed over to the law center meeting up with a few of my contemporaries to work on our mock trial.
DEAN
I'm sensing something is up with you bro. You seem to be a little unfocused on something else.
2.
DEAN (CONT'D)
DAVID
It’s nothing.
DEAN
Well, (beat) I'm, starting to get one of those strange feelings I always get...
DAVID
Not this again, you and your weird feelings always getting us caught up in something.
DEAN
This time it’s different.
DAVID
It better not be anything that involves my truck or me.
DEAN
I need to get in here.
DAVID
Call me if you need me.
INT. HILL MEMORIAL LIBRARY - STUDENT AREA - DAY - LATER
Dean walks into the back area of the library. He places his bag down on the table. At the next table he notices a friend from back home.
3.
JULIE DUBOIS, tall, slender young woman, 19 year old, African
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
SCRIPT TITLE
Written by
Name of First Writer
Based on, If Any
Address Phone Number
FADE IN:
EXT. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS - DAY - 2005
ANGLE ON LIBRARY DAVID and DEAN TALE are twin brothers, 19 years old, of African-American descent, both are students at Louisiana State University and live off campus together. David is a law student and Dean is a student athlete. Both stand six feet two inches tall and have a long thin muscular build, Dean is a two sport star in both baseball and football. They have both been dual enrolled in college since there sophomore year of high school and already have earned their first degree before getting to college.
PAN TO DOOR OF LIBRARY PASS THRU OPEN DOOR Both brothers are on campus before the school year starts. In the middle of a hot summer day the forecast is clear , but just on the horizon sits off shore in the Gulf of Mexico is Hurricane Katrina, a storm system with such force and power unknown to the brothers, how she will change and forever effect, Nola, New Orleans Louisiana.
INT. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS LIBRARY - DAY - 2005
POINT OF VIEW OF LIBRARIAN Dean, holds in his left hand a cell phone, on-campus working on a project before the fall semester. He starts to place it to his ear. He holds a book in his other hand. LIBRARIAN All electronics need to be off while in the library. Dean goes to voice a reply but the woman walk’s off.
ANGLE FAVORING DEAN
LIBRARIAN VOICE OVER INTERCOM (V.O.) Classes will be canceled for the rest of the week due to approaching hurricane. CUT TO:
EXT. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS - DAY - 2005 Dean is leaving the campus main library and is headed to the Paul M. Hebert Law Center where his brother is working on a mock case.
INT. PAUL M. HEBERT LAW CENTER - DAY - 2005 David is sitting in his study group his brother Dean walks into the room.
OTS ON DEAN FACING DAVID DAVID (V.O.) What are you doing here? DEAN I was going to ask you the same thing classes have been canceled. DAVID (V.O.) When did it happen? DEAN Just now in case you didn’t know there is a Category 3 hurricane in the Gulf. DAVID (sarcastically) Oh thanks, for the update I didn’t know that.
ANGLE FAVORING DEAN Dean heads outside the room waiting for his brothers study group to finish. He sits down on a wood bench in the hall way. The wall has photos and bronze plaques with commemorative inscription on the walls.
2.
They stare straight into Dean’s soul, mostly old forgotten lawyers, but one catches his eye and he starts to read the bust when David taps him on the shoulder.
OTS ON DEAN FACING DAVID DAVID (CONT’D) Ready to go. The brothers walk throughout the Law center.
EXT. PAUL M. HERBERT LAW CENTER - AFTERNOON - 2005 As they walk through campus the sun is directly over head Dean places his hands over his eyes to block the sun. David is walking slightly ahead of his brother. David is holding a black bag which he places on his shoulder. Dean has a laptop bag that he puts on his back. Dean stays a step behind his brother as they leave the Hebert Law center and move towards East Campus Drive.
OTS OF DEAN
EXT. EAST CAMPUS DRIVE - AFTERNOON - 2005 DEAN So what is on the agenda for tonight? David turns to face his brother. DAVID First things first, we need to board the house up aren’t you the one concerned about a hurricane. DEAN (jokingly) Almost forgot; the idea of school being out took me. DAVID Right.
3.
ANGLE ON EAST CAMPUS DRIVE PAN AHEAD ON FRAT BROTHERS As they continue to walk a slight breeze kicks up in the air, a group of young fraternity troops are marching. One of the brothers is carrying a stack of papers, he drops a few and Dean steps on one to stop it from flying off. DEAN What do we have here? FRAT BROTHER #1 It’s a flyer for a party. FRAT BROTHER #2 Not a party, a charity drive for hurricane relief. DAVID Oh, what kind of hurricane relief? FRAT BROTHER #1 In honor of Hurricane Katrina the brothers are throwing a charity function. FRAT BROTHER #2 Bring a can of food. FRAT BROTHER #1 Human food, no dog food. FRAT BROTHER #2 Everyone enters free, but b.y.o.b. DEAN Bring your own beer, well where are you passing out flyers classes are closed. FRAT BROTHER #2 Where headed to the student center and the Lambda house. DAVID It would be better if you two split up you’ll cover more ground. DEAN That’s my brother thinking more is best. Don’t forget the Sigma House we don’t want this little relief effort to turn into a dude ranch.
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EXT. EAST CAMPUS DRIVE/DALRYMPLE DRIVE - AFTERNOON - 2005 As the boys head up Fraternity row they run into other students boarding up windows and reinforcing doors. DAVID We need to hurry if we plan to do the same. DEAN Have you given any thought about mom and dad? DAVID No, but you know how dad is he’s always telling us “to take carry of home and everything else will fall into place”. DEAN Someone has to call them to see if there okay. David moves towards the car it’s a newer model, Ford, F150 2005, which is has black paint, with wheels which are the same all black. The bed in the back is covered on the inside but was open to the elements on top.
INT. FORD TRUCK/PARKING LOT OFF CAMPUS - AFTERNOON - 2005 David takes out his cell phone to dial the number for home. DAVID Hello dad, how is everything going, hold on dad Dean is with me let me put you on speaker. David takes the phone and presses the speaker button. DAD Can you both hear me? David goes to reply but Dean puts his finger of his lips. DEAN Yes, Dad we can both hear you. DAD So what’s on your minds?
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DAVID We’ve been thinking since our school is closed...that we can come down and help you with the house. DEAN It wouldn’t even be a big deal. DAD I know that you boys really love me and your mother but we’ve been through a number of these things we can manage for ourselves with no issues whatsoever. DAVID It’s a big storm dad and we think you and mom would be safer up here. DAD Boys I understand how you feel I’ve done all the windows and the doors and we’re ready for the storm me and your mother have lots of food. DAVID But dad. DAD But nothing, we have made up our minds, now boys you need to get your place in order and we don’t want you to worry about us any more call us if you need us we love you. Once the call was over all Dean and David could do was to look at each other with a dumb look on their faces. David closes the phone and puts it back in his pocket. DAVID That's dad. DEAN Stubborn as a mule. David starts the car and drives out of the parking lot and turns down the street leaving the campus at the corner of Lake street and West State Street. As David drives the boys turn into an old hardware store to get supplies for the Hurricane.
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INT. HARDWARE STORE - EARLY EVENING - 2005 DAVID We need basic supplies at this time DEAN What’s basic about supplies? DAVID Basic means just that, a few things like hammers, nails, and plywood. Dean grabs a shopping cart to place their supplies in, David moves through-out the store with his brother. DEAN Don’t you think we need to come up with a game plan just in case? DAVID Just in case...of what? DEAN Just in case worst comes to worst. DAVID You heard the old man he and mom are fine. DEAN But if we need to go get them we need a plan just in case. As they move throw the store placing items into the cart they turn down the aisle with plywood and other wood products. Looking the items over Dean looks at the different shapes and styles and is having a hard time picking out which items he wants. DAVID When that time comes we will be ready, if we have to, but right now like the old man said, we need to get our house in order, hand me some of that plywood. The boys unload their cart into the back of the truck and drive to their house which is right off campus close enough to walk, but a ways away from the chaos of on-campus life.
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EXT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE - EVENING - 2005 DAVID You know what we need to do? DEAN Yes sir, your talking to a seasoned pro.
INT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE - EVENING - 2005 David helps Dean bring in all the supplies into the house, the front door makes the funny sound it always makes when the key comes out the lock and the boys turn the handle carrying all the items inside. David looks around for the latter that they have stored in the garage. DAVID (O.C.) Have you seen dad’s old latter. Dean walks into the garage and points to it leaning against the wall a fire engine red latter sitting there plain as day.
EXT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE GARAGE - EVENING - 2005 DEAN Isn’t that it right there, if it was a snake. DAVID Yea, I know I would be dead. DEAN I think you are color blind sometimes. DAVID I think I am two at Christmas I never can tell green from red. Dean grabs one end of the red latter and David takes the other the boys both almost trip over the same step in from the garage. David turns off the light and grabs the door and shuts it. CUT TO:
CLOSE UP OF TELEVISION NEWS REPORT STANDING IN YELLOW RAIN COAT CUT TO:
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DAVID’S HAND
INT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE DOWNSTAIRS - EVENING - 2005 David is downstairs with his back to the television, he reaches his long slender skinny arm out from his body. Takes the remote off the arm of the chair and presses the volume button. Turns the sound to 100% weather man is giving his report on what the predicted hurricane models are forecasting. CUT TO:
CLOSE-UP OF TELEVISION NEWS REPORTER WEATHERMAN Estimated forecast on Hurricane Katrina. The storm has been upgraded from a tropical storm to a Category 3 will make land fall sometime Monday morning, somewhere in and around New Orleans, all residents of Saint Charles Parish, Saint Tammany Parish and Plaquemines Parish have been ordered to an mandatory evacuation, I repeat all residents of Saint Charles Parish, Saint Tammany Parish and Plaquemines Parish have been ordered to an mandatory evacuation, as for Jefferson Parish and Saint Bernard Parish have been ordered to a voluntary evacuation only.
CUT TO:
SIDE ROOF OF HOUSE DEAN IS USING A NAIL GUN CLOSE UP ON GUN THEN SLOW-MOTION VIEW OF NAIL GOING THROUGH PLYWOOD THEN PULL OUT TO NORMAL VIEW OVER DEAN’S SHOULDER HOLDING NAIL GUN
EXT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE ROOF - EVENING - 2005 The sound of quick tugs of shots from the nail gun hits the plywood forcing each nail through the wood in rapid succession.
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The gun repeats the firing over and over, the sound becomes fast and louder Dean raise the gun over his head to finish the last two nails and moves towards the next windows. FEMALE NEIGHBOR Hey what are you doing up there? DEAN Boarding up these windows. FEMALE NEIGHBOR Are you going to the frat party tonight? DEAN Thought did cross my mind. FEMALE NEIGHBOR So does that mean you're sitting the storm out here? DEAN Don’t know as of yet you’ll have to ask David. NEXT DOOR NEIGHBOR Will you do my house next? DEAN Sure I and my Oompa-Loompas will be right over. David walks on to the roof out side where his brother has in his hand a red hammer. DAVID Are you guys staying in town? FEMALE NEIGHBOR No, where headed to Atlanta my cousin has a place there and they’ll be out of town , you and your brother are more than welcome to come. DAVID Thank you, for the offer but...I want to stay in town my mother and father are back home in the New Orleans area and I need to stay close for them, before you go give me the number there and if any thing changes I’ll call you and let you know.
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As Dean finishes David helps him bring in the other supplies that were left over, they place everything in the upstairs bedroom. The last window is an old framed window and David helps Dean with it. They carefully place everything back into the garage downstairs.
INT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE LIVING-ROOM - EVENING - 2005 Dean looks at the phone and see’s the message light flashing one message, he pushes the button to listen to the message on the phones rectangular base, the phone has a speaker built into it for play back and recording and talking. As soon as the message starts Dean knows the voice, it’s the sweet sound of his mother’s voice, he jumps in the air full of delight to hear her voice he immediately picks up the receiver and places the phone number side up and starts to dial the number on the caller ID.
OTS FACING DEAN
DEAN Hi, mom how are you doing? MOM I’m fine. DEAN How’s dad doing? MOM He’s fine also. DEAN So have you given any thought about coming up before the storm? MOM I thought your dad and you boy’s already spoke about this. DEAN We did. MOM I called to tell you that the news states there is no mandatory evacuation for our parish and not to worry about me and your father. Hold on your father wants to talk to you.
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DAD Hi son, how are you holding up? DEAN I’m okay, just finishing work on the windows and all the doors. DAD Great, son just wanted to tell you not to worry about us I know that you boys are the youngest of the family and the last to leave the nest and we worry about you guys just as much as you worry about us, but me and your mother have been through many of these storms and we can take care of each other. DEAN I know dad but if anything happens promise that you will give us a call, and dad I do mean anything. DAD Dean you are the oldest, and I love you both the same but worrying won’t get you anywhere in life. DEAN Promise me that you will call. DAD We will call, so stop worrying, tell your brother we love him, and we miss you both. DEAN Okay dad, if you need anything, and I do mean anything, at all call. As Dean goes too hang up the phone his brother David walks into the room holding the flyer to the frat party. The flyer is an 8’ inch by 11’ inch piece of paper. David is dressed in a black button up shirt with a collar and a pair of dark blue jeans; he is wearing leather shoes and is holding the flyer in a way to point to the time on his watch to indicate their going to be late. DAVID I thought you were getting ready?
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DEAN I was but there was a message on the phone from mom and I wanted to give her a call back. She and dad are ready for the storm. DAVID I fear the same things as you fear. DEAN Give me a break you understand what that place means to mom and dad, there is no way either one of them are going to leave. DAVID Get ready; I’m going to grab the cans of food. DEAN Okay. David is in the kitchen grabbing cans of food; Dean comes down from a shower and is wearing a dark shirt and dark jeans with a pair of boots. The brothers leave to attend the frat party.
OTS FACING DEAN
INT. DELTA KAPPA EPSILON FRAT HOUSE - LATE NIGHT - 2005 FRAT BROTHER #1 So you made it. It’s about time. FRAT BROTHER #2 I didn’t think you guys were coming. Thanks for bring the canned food. DEAN Late but right on time. Glad to help a worthy cause. DAVID If you’re every on time. FEMALE NEIGHBOR Glad to see you made it. Did you drive?
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DEAN We drove if you need a ride back we can give you one. Finally the party can start. NEXT DOOR NEIGHBOR Do you need a drink? DAVID Not for me. DEAN Me either just here to show my support. FRAT BROTHER #1 We came to party. FRAT BROTHER #2 Me too brother, me too. DEAN You two don’t have that far to drive since you live here and all. After attending the frat party the brothers returned home, David puts his keys down on the table next to the door. He looks at a clock in the house notices it’s 2:00 A.M. As he moves into the living-room he notices additional messages on the answering machine. The boys sit around the device; Dean has a look of confusion on his face, while David pushes the play button.
INT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE LIVING-ROOM - EARLY MORNING - 2005 DEAN There are about five new messages on the machine. DAVID Listen to this one. It’s there older brother William, he is calling concerned about their mother and father, his voice is borderline between yelling and screaming.
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WILLIAM (V.O.) Dean, David I was hoping that you both would be home I concerned about Mom and Dad, this hurricane in the Gulf is headed right for home and you two are the only one’s capable of going and getting them out of there. It’s important that you go and get them out of harm’s way. Mom and Dad are older now since you two have left home they have had to depend on each other more , they’re getting older and I don’t think they can handle being in a Category 3 storm by themselves. The message stops Dean looks over at his brother’s face and reaches for the phone. Starts to punch the numbers into the phone.
OTS OF DAVID FACING DEAN DAVID Do you know what time it is? DEAN Two in the morning. DAVID This message was left hours ago. DEAN So, what are supposed to do? Mom and Dad both told us that they want to stay and not to worry about them.
ANGLE ON BOTH BROTHERS DAVID I say we go to bed get some rest and call him when we wake up. DEAN I respect mom’s and dad’s wishes and they’re not that old William only cares about himself, first thing in the morning we need to handles this.
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DAVID After a good nights sleep all will change and we will call William back. The boys go to their rooms on the second floor David goes right to bed, but Dean can’t he hears his older brothers message in his head and can’t sleep.
INT. DEAN AND DAVID’S HOUSE KITCHEN - EARLY MORNING - 2005 Dean is up at 7:00 AM, he’s watching the news and is listening to the weather report. He opens the refrigerator and takes out the orange juice, reaches into the cabinet and grabs a cup, pours himself a glass of juice. CUT TO:
WEATHER REPORTER CLOSE-UP OF REPORTER WEATHERMAN (V.O.) We are tracking the storm and Katrina has now reached Category 4 intensity with winds of 145 mph. As ordered yesterday Saint Charles Parish, Saint Tammany Parish and Plaquemines Parish have been ordered to a mandatory evacuation of all residents as for Jefferson Parish and Saint Bernard Parish an voluntary evacuations is in place but as of this time we are recommending that all residents evacuate. Dean eye’s open wide he drops his glass on the floor and David comes running into the room. DAVID (O.C.) What was that? Dean is on the floor with paper towels attempting to clean the mess up with little success. DEAN The storm is a category 4 now and they’re recommending that Saint Bernard residents evacuate. The phone rings on the television the caller id flashes across the screen it says William Tale.
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Dean reaches for the phone in the kitchen he answers it he puts the phone on speaker and places it back on the base. WILLIAM (V.O.) Good morning guys I hoped I would have heard from you before now. DEAN We got your message. DAVID But it was late, and we didn’t want to wake you when we got home. WILLIAM (V.O.) I understand I’m not going to beat around the bush I think you two need to get mom and dad out of New Orleans before the storm hits. DEAN The news reports have the storm up to a Category 4 and are recommending an evacuation of Saint Bernard’s Parish. WILLIAM (V.O.) That’s why you need to get them out as soon as possible before the storm hits. DAVID You both know how Dad is and he will never leave that home. WILLIAM (V.O.) That’s why you need to go now, it gives you more of a chance to get them both to safety, and I’m catching the next flight out of Detroit to Houston. I will try to get there to help you guys but it’s up to you to get them out there. DEAN We will. Dean hangs up the phone and looks at David. DEAN (CONT’D) We need to pack a bag bring clothes and blankets, food for a road trip, also the rest of the plywood and hammers and the nails.
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DAVID So, I guess we’re headed home. DEAN Yep, back to the Nola. Dean and his brother are all packed and ready to head back home. Dean is calling home to check with a friend to see what everything is like back at home.
INT. FORD TRUCK LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY AVE - DAY - 2005 DEAN Hello Matt, what’s up how you been? MATT As well as one can aspect with a monster on your door step. DEAN Trust me I know. MATT Were are you? DEAN We’re on our way back to Nola right now. I need you to do something for me. MATT Anything what do you need? DEAN Go down to the Sheriffs office and find out what the evacuation plan is and if it is going to be enforced. MATT I don’t know? DEAN I would do it for you. MATT Okay, give me fifteen minutes and I’ll call you back. CUT TO:
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EXT. MATT’S HOUSE NEW ORLEANS - DAY - 2005 Matt takes his skate board off his bed he stands 5 feet 8 inches tall he is a young looking 20 something generation x skater. He opens the door to his bed room in his left hand is his skate board as he opens the door to his home he drops in on it and pushes off the street.
ANGLE ON BOARD Matt takes a turn down another street as he gets to the top of the street there is a large incline his speed picks up till he slam’s into the side of a brick wall. Matt seem to be find and just bounces right of it hits the back of the board and enters the building. Once in side there are sheriffs deputy all in an uproar noisy and very busy the sergeant is sitting at his desk Matt walks up to him.
INT. NEW ORLEANS POLICE DEPT. - DAY - 2005 MATT Hi I was wondering what is the state of the evacuation and are residents having to evacuate? SERGEANT Kid tell me you have a television or radio in your home. MATT Actually I don’t. SERGEANT There is no mandatory effort at this time but we will be helping with the elderly and hospitals in the area who which to leave. MATT Oh, I see. SERGEANT While does that answer your question kid? MATT Oh yes sir thank you. SERGEANT Your welcome!
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Matt turns and places his skate board on the ground and drops in on it at the. CUT TO:
INT. MATT’S HOUSE NEW ORLEANS - DAY - 2005 Matt is skating into the back door of his house and opens the back door and picks up the phone. MATT Hello hey Dean your right they are not enforcing an mandatory evacuation just moving the elderly and patients from hospitals.
INT. FORD TRUCK LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY AVE - DAY - 2005 DEAN Thanks Matt you’ve been a big help I’ll see you when we get to town bye
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