Post by Admin on Mar 10, 2014 19:08:05 GMT
PROLOGUE
1. EXT. Neighbourhood Street. DAY.
(A teenage boy skateboards across the street, straight into a blue bin sitting by the road. One of the neighbours walks over)
NEIGHBOUR
Hey, hey
(He picks up the bin; the boy picks up his skateboard and skates off. The neighbour looks up, hearing voices coming from the house across the street)
PAIGE SANDERS (off-screen)
Daddy, I’m leaving
MIKE SANDERS (off-screen)
But you won’t even let me finish!
(Paige comes out of the house, followed by her dad)
MIKE
Sweetheart, please don’t go. Not like this. Paige, I promise you there’s nothing wrong with my baby girl
PAIGE
I’m not a baby. And I’m not your girl
(Shot of the Neighbour watching them)
MIKE (trying to put an arm round her)
Paige…
PAIGE
Don’t touch me!
(She walks over to her car and gets inside)
MIKE
God, have you ever considered that nothing happened? That this is all just a figment of your imagination?
PAIGE (out of her car window)
I give myself more credit than that. Because pretty soon, the truth is gonna come out and when it does, I can promise you one thing, I’m not the only person who’s gonna have to deal with it. You are, Daddy
(She starts the engine)
MIKE
Paige!
(Paige roars off down the street in the car. Mike doesn’t watch her go)
2. INT. Morgue Office. DAY.
DAVIS
Okay hotshot. Bonus question, you ready?
TRU
Hit me
DAVIS
Riddle me this…the odontoid ligaments serve to limit the extent to which?
TRU
The cranium’s rotation can be carried. Which is why they’re also known as check ligaments. You gonna eat that?
DAVIS
It’s all yours smarty-pants. I am finished with cramming for your MCATS
TRU
Oh come on, we haven’t even started on the sympathetic nervous system!
(Davis walks through into his office, and takes off his lab coat)
DAVIS
You know the secret for acing the MCATS? Quit cramming. Get some sleep, Tru. Go home
(He sits down to change his shoes)
TRU
I’m just so excited! If I ace the MCATS tomorrow I get into Medical School. I do that, I become a doctor. I become a doctor and I can finally say goodbye –
DAVIS (looks up)
To working here?
(Tru says nothing. Davis gets up, picks up his jacket and walks past her)
TRU
Come on, I didn’t mean it like that
DAVIS
I got a feeling it’s not gonna happen
TRU
You think I won’t pass? I nailed every question you asked, plus the ones you made up
DAVIS
No, no, that’s not what I meant. I’m sure you’ll ace them. It’s just meant that, sometimes I get the feeling that some people don’t belong here. And some people do
TRU
So which am I? I belong here or not?
DAVIS (stopping at the double doors)
What do you think?
(Tru stares at him. Davis walks through the doors. Shot of Tru looking thoughtful, the camera pans further and further out until the whole room is in shot)
[Fade to black]
[CREDITS]
3. INT. Tru’s bedroom. DAY
(Camera on an MCATS study guide open on a page, pans around the room to show several more study Aids, and then across to Tru who is asleep in bed, with yet another study book propped open on her chest. The telephone rings; Tru sits up and reaches out for it)
TRU
Hello?
LINDSAY
Bitch-cakes! Hi, its Lindsay
TRU
I guessed
Cut to: LINDSAY (walking in the street)
Uh, so listen – I found a guy
Cut to: TRU (getting out of bed)
I’m shocked
Cut to: LINDSAY
Not for me, for you – his name’s Jeremy. I haven’t met him myself but he’s totally your type!
Cut to: TRU (in the kitchen, picking up a coffee cup and filter paper)
If you haven’t met him yourself, how do you know he’s my type?
Cut to: LINDSAY
Tru, it’s my gift. So stop asking questions, and start looking for that little black Dolce and Gabbana dress I got you last Christmas
Cut to: TRU
Lindsay, we’ve been through this. I’m not on the market, and I’m taking my MCATS this afternoon
Cut to: LINDSAY
Perfect! You can meet him after. And don’t worry; I’ll be there to Chaperone, so now you’re all out of excuses. Say you’ll be there
Cut to: TRU
I’ll be there
Cut to: LINDSAY
Smart girl. Oh, good luck on your test
Cut to: TRU
Thanks
(They both hang up. Tru picks up the coffee bag to pour into the filter, but its empty. She sighs)
4. INT. Café. DAY
HARRISON
Don’t take this the wrong way, but you look like crap
TRU
Thanks, Harrison! That’s very sweet. I told you, I’ve been up studying all night. Because in 45 minutes, I’m gonna take the biggest test of my life
HARRISON
Right. The Top Cats
TRU
MCATS
HARRISON
I just wanna make sure you’re okay
TRU
Outside the big test jitters, I’m fine, thanks
HARRISON
Is everything else copacetic? Feeling good? Having fun?
(Tru narrows her eyebrows at him)
Look, you know me, always looking out for you, because I know you’d do the same thing for me
TRU
All right, what do you want?
HARRISON
Nothing, man! What, a guy can’t worry about his own sister without being accused of working an angle? Jeez, I’m offended…how could you actually say that to me?
TRU
It’s about what I told you, isn’t it? About me, you know – what I can do
HARRISON
Okay, A – I don’t even believe you, and B – even if I did, I would still need some cold, hard…(he pushes a newspaper over to Tru)…proof
TRU (picking it up)
“The Racing Forum”?
HARRISON
You want me to believe you, right? Well here’s a way!
(Tru rolls her eyes)
I go to the track, I see who wins. I call you up on the phone, give you the horses names. And tomorrow, should you – you know, do that voodoo you do so well…
TRU
You make money
HARRISON (with a grin)
Yeah
TRU
Harrison, I don’t think that’s how it works
HARRISON
I’m not even sure it works at all! But I’ve heard of weirder systems so what the hell? Give it a shot
(Tru smiles. Harrison leans over the table towards her)
Are you down with this? Or do I have to go work for a living?
TRU
I’ll see what I can do. But now I gotta go
HARRISON
I love my sister! Go. Go take your MCATS. Kick much academic ass!
TRU
Thanks!
5. INT. Examination Room. DAY.
(The invigilator stands behind his desk, looking at the rows upon rows of students in front of him who are writing hastily onto their exam papers. The room is silent.)
(Camera pans in on Tru. The boy behind her sneezes – he looks at her apologetically)
(The invigilator looks at the large digital clock on his desk counting down to the end of the exam. It’s reading 8 seconds…7 seconds…6 seconds…)
INVIGILATOR (as the clock beeps)
Time. Time’s up people, pencils down
(Tru looks at her paper, and suddenly laughs triumphantly. The invigilator looks at her sternly, her laughter subsides into a smile)
6. INT. Bar. NIGHT.
(Tru and Lindsay are sitting at a table in a bar, raising their glasses in a toast)
LINDSAY
To my best friend, Tru, who just aced her MCATS and who will make a wonderful doctor someday
TRU
Cheers
LINDSAY
I’m not done yet. Who will always squeeze me in on short notice and accept whatever health insurance I carry
TRU
Of course
LINDSAY
Okay. Cheers!
(They clink glasses and drink, each murmuring “mmm”. Then Lindsay points over to the doorway. A guy is standing there, looking around)
TRU
Is that him?
LINDSAY (impressed)
Gotta be. God, can I pick ‘em or can I pick ‘em?
(She walks over to him)
Hey, Jeremy?
JEREMY
Yes. Hi
LINDSAY
Hi
(They walk back over to the table)
TRU
Jeremy
JEREMY
That’s me. But you can’t be Tru…you’re too good to be true
TRU
Yeah…my name does lend itself to more obvious puns
JEREMY
I spent all day thinking that up. Do you mind?
(Without waiting for an answer, he picks up Tru’s drink and starts drinking)
Cut to: Later on in the “date”
(The table is full of food but only Jeremy is eating. Tru stares blankly ahead)
JEREMY
Yeah, I never usually go on blind dates ‘cause who knows what you’re gonna get? So at first I was all like, “wait, she works in a morgue?” Because, come on, you’re too hot to work in a morgue, you ought to switch jobs. You ought to be in like, videos or something
TRU
I have to go
JEREMY
Oh right, right, night shift. Creepy
(Tru gets up to go)
So, I’ll call you! Oh wait, you forgot to give me your number
(Tru turns around, shrugs and smiles, and walks away)
7. INT. Morgue corridor. NIGHT.
(Tru sees Luc coming in the opposite direction)
TRU
Luc, hi
LUC
Hi…have we met?
TRU
Yeah…(remembers the day they met was a re-run day and the meeting never took place)…in the “we’ve never actually met” kinda way…I heard there might be a new guy
LUC
That would be me…Luc (he holds out his hand)
TRU
Tru (she shakes it)
LUC
Dress code?
TRU
Blind date.
LUC
Oh
TRU
Bad one
LUC
Ooh, well is there any other kind?
(Tru laughs)
TRU
My friend Lindsay thinks it’s her life’s work to fix me up
LUC
She worried you can’t meet a nice guy?
TRU
Worried I can’t meet a living one
LUC
She shouldn’t. Worry, I mean
TRU
Why? Know someone for me?
LUC
Give me some time
(They smile at each other)
Anyway, I gotta run. My folks are in town. But its nice to meet you
TRU
Yeah
LUC (backing into the lift)
Tru
TRU
Luc
(The doors close. Close up on Tru; Her cellphone rings)
Hello?
Cut to: HARRISON (in the café)
Hey, hey, its me. And I hold in my hands the key to financial freedom
Cut to: TRU
A job interview?
Cut to: HARRISON
Ha ha, that’s very funny. But no. What I have are the winning horses from the last race at Del Mar
Cut to: TRU
Great…
Cut to: HARRISON
It’s a 40-1 trifecta Tru. So write this down. Today’s lucky ponies are: Cherry Top, Sky Marker and Whirligig.
Cut to: TRU
You know, I have no idea why I can do what I do, but I’m pretty sure it’s not so I can pick up the ponies
HARRISON (voice-over)
Just tell me you got them
TRU
I got them okay, you happy?
Cut to: HARRISON
No, but I will be tomorrow, if my big sister’s as lucky as she claims to be
Cut to: TRU
Uh-huh, I gotta go, love you
DAVIS (off-screen)
Tru?
TRU
Oh Davis, I didn’t hear you come in
DAVIS
Yeah, hi, I meant to tell you I got a call from County Records today, something about an autopsy report you requested?
TRU
Yeah, my, umm, my mother’s
DAVIS
Oh…stupid (he bangs his own head against the door)
TRU
Is there a problem?
DAVIS
I’m sorry. Had I known, I would have authorized delivery. Since I didn’t know, I just…
TRU
Its okay, I’ll just get them tomorrow
DAVIS
Oh no, not likely. The clerk went on holiday tonight for a couple of weeks. With all the red tape downtown you’re probably gonna have to wait until he gets back
TRU (obviously disappointed)
It’s okay. I waited ten years; another few weeks won’t kill me right?
DAVIS
Still…I can’t help but wonder if those are the answers you’re really looking for
TRU
Why, what are you…
(Gardez wheels a trolley past the doorway)
GARDEZ
We’ve got a cold one
8. INT. Post-Mortem Room, Morgue. NIGHT.
(Davis takes the sheet off the dead body. Gardez is holding a clipboard)
GARDEZ
Name’s Paige Sanders, medical student at Hudson. Well, until 4:31 today
TRU
Hudson, that’s the top medical school in the state
GARDEZ
Didn’t do her any good
TRU
How’d she die?
DAVIS
Here’s a guess. Knowing the high-pressure world of most Med students, I would posit this one worked hard. But probably played a little bit harder
(Close up on Paige’s arm, there is a bruise and a needle mark)
TRU
Overdose. God, that makes no sense. Hudson get their pick of the best and the brightest. She had it all
DAVIS
What can I tell you, Tru? Some med students can hack the pressure
GARDEZ
Yeah, and some can’t
TRU
No, but why would she –
GARDEZ
Never met a newbie as curious as you, Tru, relax. You can’t help her now
TRU
Come on, Davis, what more can you tell me?
DAVIS
Well it looks like we have a little petechial imaging in the eye
(Close-up of Paige’s eye which has small red marks around the eyeball)
Usually associated with some sort of trauma
TRU
Could be associated with the drug intake. Coughing, vomiting, internal pressure of some kind?
DAVIS
Wow. Someone’s gonna do well on their MCATS. That’s good. Just to be sure, we should prepare the body for a toxicology report. I wanna know exactly what chemicals were in this student’s body when she died (he leaves the room)
GARDEZ
Hey wait up Davis (he follows)
TRU (to Paige)
You have no idea how lucky you were
(She stares at the body for a few more seconds. There is a silence. Then, Paige’s head twists to look at Tru)
PAIGE
Save me
[Flashbacks of the day’s images as the day re-winds]
9. INT. Tru’s bedroom. DAY.
(Shot of the MCATS study guides, camera pans round the room and shows Tru asleep in bed. The telephone rings)
TRU
Hello?
LINDSAY
Bitch-cakes! Hey, its Lindsay
(Tru sits up straighter, remembering)
Too tired to talk? Okay, fine, because I found a guy, his name’s Jeremy and he’s totally your type
[Fade to black]
[Flashbacks of the day’s images]
(Shot of the City Morgue building)
10. INT. Morgue. DAY.
(Tru bursts in through the doors, over to the post-mortem trolley, which is empty. She stares at it, and Davis walks into the room)
DAVIS
Morning
TRU
You ever have one of the greatest days of your life, I mean a really, truly great day, and then just feel like the whole thing got erased?
DAVIS
You’re assuming I’ve ever had a great day? What are you doing?
TRU
I’m just checking for something. Hey, did we get any medical students last night?
DAVIS
The only medical student here is you, in a couple of hours. Aren’t you taking the MCATS today?
TRU
I did (looks at Davis and backtracks) I will. I just have to do one thing first
(She turns to leave)
DAVIS
You have quite the life don’t you?
(He goes into his office)
TRU
Unfortunately, yeah. Oh, and Davis!
(He leans back out from his office)
…if County Records just happens to call, go ahead and authorize delivery. I want those files
(Davis raises his eyebrows, and enters his office. Tru turns and goes through the doors, hitting Luc on the other side. His camera clatters to the floor and breaks)
TRU
Oh my God, Luc, I’m sorry. Here, let me help you
LUC
No, thanks, really, I got it
TRU
Tell me it’s fixable…
LUC
Well I would, but then I’d probably be lying
(Tru sighs)
How’d you know my name?
TRU
What?
LUC
You called me Luc, just now, but we’ve never met before
TRU
I’m a lucky guesser
LUC
Yeah, well… (he starts to walk away) Nice running into you
TRU (turning round)
Tell me this day gets better
(Ext. Shot of Hudson University)
(Int. Shot of Hudson’s reception area and the clock which reads 10am)
11. INT. Hudson reception. DAY.
(Tru hurries down some stairs and across to the desk. Another girl is leaning against the desk, looking bored and frustrated.)
JESSICA
Check again. My records have to be here
(The admissions officer sighs and types something into her computer)
JESSICA
Are you sure you’re using that thing right?
(Tru cellphone rings)
TRU
Hello?
HARRISON (voice-over)
Tru, where are ya?
TRU (turning her back on the reception desk)
Oh God, Harrison, breakfast
Cut to: HARRISON (in the café)
Why’d you blow me off? I’ve been waiting, like, half an hour
Cut to: TRU
It’s not my fault. I’m having…I’m having one of those mornings
Cut to: HARRISON
So you’re telling me what? We already had this conversation?
(He takes out “The Racing Forum” from his back pocket)
Cut to: TRU
Do you have “the Racing Forum” in front of you?
HARRISON
Proves nothing, except that if you’re having one of your so-called lucky days, you should be telling me today’s winning horses
TRU
I don’t remember
HARRISON
What??
TRU
They were horse names, Harrison. How am I supposed to remember them?
HARRISON
You know, you talk a good game, but I knew you couldn’t do it Tru. I knew it! See you
(Tru sighs and hangs up. She turns back to the desk)
JESSICA (exasperated)
It’s Hansen. Jessica Hansen. The transfer should have come in hours ago from Harvard Medical
ADMISSIONS OFFICER
I’ll be sure to let you know the moment they come in
JESSICA
You do that
(She gives the Admissions officer a dirty look and walks away)
TRU
Hi. Just a thought but when her files come in, you should bounce them back to Harvard just for laughs
ADMISSIONS OFFICER
Don’t give me any ideas. What can I do for you?
TRU
My friend, Paige Sanders, is a student. I wanna surprise her. Do you know where I could find her now?
ADMISSIONS OFFICER
I’m not allowed to say
TRU
I get that. Too bad, though. She just got a residency at the Mayo Clinic. And I’d love to see the look on Harvard’s face when she learns my friend got in and she didn’t
(The Admissions officer smiles and types onto the computer)
ADMISSIONS OFFICER
Got her. Building theater C. But you didn’t hear it from me
TRU
Didn’t hear what from you?
(Ext. Shot of Hudson University)
12. INT. Theater C. DAY.
(Two students are at the front of the class; on a trolley in front of them is a body and surgical implements)
PROFESSOR
Mr Taggert, would you tell your fellow surgeons-in-training what exactly you’re doing to this poor dead man’s heart
DAN TAGGERT
Like you taught, Sir, I’m just making a cut between the inferior vena cava
PROFESSOR
And the, what? Anyone? And the?
STEVEN
Eustachian Valve, sir
PROFESSOR
Good. Taking particular care not to sever?
(He looks up into the students)
Miss Sanders?
[Flashback of Paige Sanders lying dead in the Morgue. Gardez: “Name’s Paige Sanders”.)
[Flashback of the moment Paige asked for help. Paige: “Save me”]
PROFESSOR
Miss Sanders?
PAIGE
Uh, the uh…
TRU (whispering)
Anterior margin
PAIGE
The uh, uh…
PROFESSOR
The answer I’m looking for is anterior margin
PAIGE
Right, no, and I knew that, I just…
PROFESSOR
We all knew the answer, Miss Sanders. The question is time. Time matters. To us, time is the difference between life and death
(Tru glances up at the clock. It reads 10:30am)
Time has value, Miss Sanders. And please do not waste our time. For those of you who will actually become doctors, our minds are the most valuable tools we possess. And we must keep them sharp at all times. Thank you. See you next week. Take your notes
(He walks out of the room)
(Tru looks up at Paige, who is looking humiliated)
13. EXT. Hudson University, outside the entrance. DAY.
(Tru is waiting for Paige. She sees her walking away from the building. Dan Taggert and Steven follow her)
DAN
“The mind is the most valuable tool”. We guys should know, he’s the biggest tool on campus
STEVEN
He acts like he’s Zeus or something, I hate that
DAN
Well the least he can do is realise he’s not God. I am!
(They laugh)
DAN
Hey, Sanders! Nice work in there. Very impressive
PAIGE
Give me a break, both you guys okay? I’m not in the mood
DAN
Relax, Sanders, it’s us
TRU
Excuse me!
(Dan, Paige and Steven turn round. Dan is putting on his jacket – Tru notices track marks on his arm)
Hi! You guys are second years, right?
DAN
Yeah, that’s right. Who’s asking
TRU
Name’s Hansen. Jessica Hansen. I just got in from Harvard today
[Flashback of the girl by Reception. Jessica: “Jessica Hansen”]
DAN
Yeah, I saw you inside
PAIGE
Yeah, you were observing us
TRU
Yeah what can I say, I’m just naturally curious
DAN
Good for you. Welcome to Hudson. But as you’ve, er, observed, we are second years, which means we’re busy
(They all turn round to go)
TRU
Hey, is it true what they say about you guys?
DAN
I don’t know, what is it exactly they say about us?
TRU
That you’re good
DAN
They’d be right about that
PAIGE
What else do they say?
TRU
That you throw the best parties, well-connected, got some heavy-hitting careers lined up for yourselves. But that’s not the whole story, is it?
(They all look at each other)
Look, I’m cool with it. I came here to hook up with some color-outside-the-lines types
DAN
Maybe we are. Maybe we aren’t. My question would be what’s it to you?
TRU
Like I said, I’m just trying to make some new friends. Oh, and by the way, that professor had no right to talk to you that way
PAIGE
The name’s Paige and I can take care of myself
TRU
I believe it. Listen, I just got out of one alpha boys club. I’m new in town. Come on, help a sister out. Just welcome me to campus. I’ll buy you a meal?
PAIGE
Yeah, I can’t, we –
STEVEN
We’re busy
TRU
Doing what?
DAN
Nothing that concerns you (Turns to Paige) But go ahead. Enjoy your meal. We’re not doing anything with you
PAIGE
Okay
14. INT. Cafe. DAY.
(Tru and Paige are sitting at a table opposite each other, eating)
PAIGE
To be honest, I can’t remember the last time I sat down and ate a solid meal
TRU
Thought you might need a break. You got that whole overachiever thing going for you
PAIGE (laughs)
Yeah, right, I’m doing everything I can just to keep up
TRU
You seem to push yourself pretty hard
PAIGE
Yeah but I mean who doesn’t? You, me, I mean it’s the whole med school thing, right? You pass your MCATS, always busting your ass trying to max out your potential
TRU
It must be nice
PAIGE
Hmm?
TRU
I just, you know, have to stop and appreciate it sometimes. Not everyone’s so lucky, we got in. So let me ask you, is everyone here as uptight as your friends?
PAIGE (laughs)
Those guys, they’re all right. I mean you know what the competition can do you
TRU
Sure, but that doesn’t mean we have to hurt ourselves just to keep up with them
PAIGE
What are you talking about?
(Paige’s cellphone rings)
Sorry
(She answers it)
Hello? Now? Yeah, no, I’ll be right there. All right
(She hangs up)
Listen, thanks for lunch but I um, I gotta run
(She grabs her bag and stands up to go. Tru jumps up too)
TRU
Paige, I know
PAIGE
You know what?
TRU
About the drugs. I don’t know if you do it to keep up, or to wind down but
PAIGE
Drugs? What are you talking about?
(Tru grabs Paige’s arm and rolls her sleeve up)
Hey!
(Her arm is clean)
[Flashback to Davis showing Tru Paige’s arm in the Morgue, clearly needle-marked]
(Shot of Paige’s clean arm)
PAIGE (pulling her arm away)
What kind of freak are you?
TRU
Okay, now I’m confused
PAIGE
Don’t touch me. Don’t come near me. Look, I don’t know what your psycho agenda is, but screw you. Stay away from me
(She walks out.)
Cut to: Shot of Paige walking across Campus
(Camera pans across to show Tru is following her)
Cut to: Paige walking past a chain-link fence into a disused factory yard
Cut to: Tru walking across the same yard
Cut to: Paige crossing over to a door in the building and entering it
Cut to: Tru crossing to the door, entering and closing it behind her
15. INT. Factory. DAY.
(Tru peers around the corner. There is a rhythmic beeping sound, like a hospital heartbeat monitor.)
Cut to: Dan Taggert, staring down at Steven, who is lying on a trolley, with various wires attached to him. He is unconscious, the machine next to him monitoring his heartbeat. Paige is standing next to them.
(The beeping slows down. The machine shows “HR: 17” then “HR: 9”. Shot of Dan, looking at the monitor.)
(Close-up of the monitor flashing red “HR: 0”)
DAN
Finally
PAIGE
Yeah, we are up and running
DAN
Congratulations doctor, we did it
(Shot of Paige, who is looking up at Dan)
(Shot of Dan, close-up)
DAN
He’s dead
(Shot of Tru looking horrified)
[Fade to black]
[Flashback of the day’s images as they rewind]
16. INT. Factory. DAY.
(The machine continues to flatline, showing “HR:0”. Tru is still watching them)
DAN
Looking good, keep him steady. Time?
PAIGE
Eight seconds
DAN
Death looks good on you, Steven
(Shot of the timer counting seconds)
PAIGE
Twelve seconds, we’re getting close
(Shot of Tru watching. Electricity charges through the Defibrillator Paddles)
Okay, twenty seconds, time to do your thing
DAN
Clear
(He shocks Steven with the Paddles. The alarm continues to sound)
PAIGE
No change
(Close up of the timer, counting 31 seconds, 32 seconds…)
(Dan and Paige both stare at Steven, looking slightly worried)
(Close up of the monitor still flatlining…then it starts rhythmic beeping as the heartbeat returns. Dan smiles)
(Shot of the monitor saying “HR:27”. Shot of Tru still watching them)
(Dan and Paige stare at Steven. He opens his eyes and gasps)
STEVEN
Now that…was a trip
PAIGE
Did it work for you Steven?
DAN
I’ve got a better question (he points directly at Tru) What the hell is she doing here?
TRU
I could ask you the same thing. I bet your answer’s a lot more interesting than mine
DAN
Guess again
TRU
I’m guessing what I just saw could get you all kicked out of med school by lunchtime. Or, we could talk
17. EXT. Campus grounds. DAY.
(Tru is walking with Dan)
TRU
So let me get this straight, you’ve got this little hobby, you kill yourselves?
DAN
For starters
(They reach a bench where Paige and Steven are sitting)
TRU
And then you resuscitate
PAIGE
That’s the plan
TRU
But what’s the point?
STEVEN
The point, Jessica, is that when you come back, you’re not the same (he smiles) You know the urban myth about the moment you die your whole life flashes before your eyes? It’s true
TRU (nodding)
Memories. You’re unlocking repressed memories
DAN
And what are they anyway, memories? Just chemicals locked in the brain between your occipital fissure and the temporal lobe
PAIGE
And the best part is they’re just lying there, waiting to be tapped into
TRU
You guys are good. Too bad your little experiment kills you
STEVEN
Uh-uh. Almost kills you
(Tru stares at him)
I saw my father’s face the day he left me. I was 2 and a half when it happened and now it’s as clear as… (He laughs) Let’s just say high-def video can kiss my ass cause I have clarity. Crystal clear memory of that day and so much more
PAIGE
I’m next
TRU
No, Paige, you can’t. You wanna dig into your past, I get it, but there’s gotta be a better way. You can deal with this. All you have to do is go to the source. Find out whoever it is you have unresolved issues with
PAIGE
And what? Have a good long talk with them? See their point of view? Reach closure? You think I haven’t already tried that? You think this isn’t my last resort? Fine, you know so much? You go talk to my father. Because nothing is gonna stop me
(She gets up and walks away, followed by Dan and Steve)
18. INT. Reception area at Hudson. DAY.
(Shot of the clock which reads 1pm. The admissions officer sits at her desk, holding a cup and stirring a spoon around her coffee)
TRU
Hi. I need just one more thing
19. EXT. Paige’s house. DAY.
(Tru gets out of a taxi and sees the Neighbour, who is carrying a reel of hosepipe)
TRU
Mr Sanders?
NEIGHBOUR
Right block, wrong house. Mike Sanders lives right there
(He points across the street)
TRU
Thanks
NEIGHBOUR
My pleasure
(Tru walks up to the house)
20. EXT. Paige’s house. DAY.
(Tru is on the doorstep, talking to Mike Sanders)
MIKE
Who’d you say you were?
TRU
A friend of Paige’s. We go to school together. Mr Sanders, I’m really worried about her. I think she’s gonna hurt herself
MIKE
No. My daughter would never do anything like that
TRU
I wish you were right, but I don’t think you are, and you’re the only one who can stop her
MIKE
Why am I the only one?
TRU
You’re her father. You have a history with Paige that …
MIKE
Look. Whatever she told you about me isn’t true. Touch my own daughter? It’s sickening even thinking about it. And the craziest part is, Paige doesn’t remember anything. Just some nonsense about the moon and the stars
TRU
The moon and the stars, what’s that mean?
MIKE
You’re her friend. You tell me
21. INT. Examination Hall. DAY.
(The invigilator paces in front of his desk, looking up at the rows of students ready to take the MCATS)
INVIGILATOR (looking at his list)
Tru Davies. Is Tru Davies here?
(The other students look around. Camera pans to show Tru’s empty desk)
22. EXT. Campus grounds. DAY.
(Tru is on her cellphone)
HARRISON (voice-over)
I thought you were taking your test
TRU
I am. I’m just going a little late. I have to find someone first
HARRISON
Then I’m glad I caught you
(Cut to show Harrison in the Café, “The Racing Forum” in front of him)
Look, I need you to concentrate. And the names of the horses are?
Cut to: TRU
Harrison, I told you I can’t remember them, look I’m really sorry…
PAIGE (off-screen)
Hey, Hansen!
TRU (to Harrison)
I gotta go
Cut to: HARRISON
Tru!
(He slams the phone down in frustration)
PAIGE
Were you just talking to my father? What’s wrong with you? First you force your way into my life, then my group, now my home? How Single White Female are you?
TRU
I know I’m butting in. Just give me one minute to explain
PAIGE
Okay, one minute
23. EXT. Campus grounds. DAY.
(Tru and Paige are walking along together)
TRU
I was 12 when my mom died
PAIGE
You were just a kid. Wow…
TRU
I watched it happen. Right in front of me. I have questions about my mother’s murder that I may never be able to answer. As much as I’d like to know the truth, it’s not worth dying over
PAIGE
Yeah, but why do you think I would die?
TRU
Because I’ve done the research. The heart can’t withstand it, and if the heart does, the brain can’t. Sure, some people get lucky and come out okay, but not everyone. Not you. Look, do yourself a favour. Call it off. Its suicide
PAIGE
I mean, it’s not like I’ve never had doubts, I mean, I just…I have these feelings about my past and…I don’t know what else to do
TRU
Talk to your father again, or a therapist, anyone. Just don’t go through with the experiment
(There is a few seconds silence)
PAIGE
Fine. I’ll call it off. I don’t know why I trust you, but I do. I’ll tell the guys
TRU
That’s great. You have no idea how relieved I am…
DAN (off-screen)
Harvard, how’s it going?
PAIGE
Hey Dan, actually I’m glad you’re here because I wanted to talk to you about something
DAN
Sure, great, love to hear it. There’s just someone I met at the sign-ups for molecular bio. I really think you should meet her
(He turns round and beckons a girl forward. Tru recognises her at once as Jessica Hansen)
JESSICA
Hi, Jessica Hansen?
(to Dan) Is this the one you told me about?
DAN
And will the real Jessica Hansen please stand up?
PAIGE
I don’t understand…
TRU
Paige, I can explain
JESSICA
Allow me. I’m Jessica Hansen. I transferred from Harvard yesterday. And this woman here is trying some lame-ass identity scam. Which, sorry honey, it won’t work
DAN
And now that’s over with… how about you tell us who the hell you really are?
TRU
Paige, I…
PAIGE
Don’t. Because as far as I’m concerned, everything you’ve told me is a lie. I bet you’re not even a real medical student, are you?
(She walks away, followed by Dan and Jessica)
TRU
Paige, just wait
(She stares after them)
Cut to: Shot of the Hudson University building
24. EXT. Entrance of Hudson University. DAY.
(Tru outside the entrance. She looks at her watch. It reads 2:30pm)
TRU
Two hours and counting
(She sees Steven coming)
Steven. Steven, wait up
STEVEN
What do you want from me?
TRU
You’ve gotta talk her out of it
STEVEN
No way
TRU
It’s going to kill her
STEVEN
No it’s won’t. Look at me, I’ve never been better
TRU
Look, we all have questions we need answered. But Steven, Paige is gonna make the biggest mistake of her life in just a few hours unless you talk her out of it.
STEVEN
Little late for that
TRU
Why?
STEVEN
She’s doing it right now
(He walks away. Camera shot of Tru, looking panicked)
[Fade to black]
[Flashback of the days images so far]
25. INT. Factory. DAY.
(Dan is preparing a syringe. Paige is lying on the trolley, with various wires attached to her chest. Dan inserts the syringe into Paige’s arm. She raises her head to look at it for a second, and then lies back down)
26. EXT. Campus grounds. DAY.
(Tru runs across the grounds)
27. INT. Factory. DAY.
(Paige is lying motionless, eyes closed. Dan looks at her, then over at the monitor. It is steady rhythmic beeping, showing “HR:37” then it begins to flatline, the heartbeat gradually dropping, flashing red on the screen)
28. EXT. Factory grounds. DAY.
(Tru runs across the disused factory yard)
29. INT. Factory. DAY.
(The machine shows “HR:0” The Defibrillator Paddles charge electricity)
DAN
Okay, ready to come back
(He shocks her; her body jerks. The machine still shows “HR:0”)
DAN
Come on
(Shot of the timer showing 23 seconds, 24 seconds)
30. EXT. Factory grounds. DAY.
(Tru reaches the factory door, pulls it open and runs inside)
31. INT. Factory. DAY.
(Dan shocks Paige again. The machine still shows “HR:0”. Dan looks worried now)
(Shot of the timer which reads 37 seconds, 38 seconds)
(Dan looks up as Tru comes running towards him)
DAN
Can’t get her back, she’s not responding
TRU
Got any dobutamine?
DAN
No
TRU
Dopamine?
DAN
No, none of that either
(The Defibrillator Paddles charge electricity. Tru shocks Paige again, the machine is still flatlining)
She’s been under too long. She should have been out by now
(Tru rubs the pads together, electric charging through them, and shocks Paige for a fourth time. Nothing happens. Anxiously, she rubs the pads together again, getting ready for a fifth when the monitor finds a heartbeat and begins its rhythmic beeping. Paige stirs)
DAN
It’s amazing, isn’t it? How thin the line between life and death can be? The instant recovery time, see that’s why I designed all this the way that I did…
TRU
That’s great, Dan. What would you have done if I couldn’t revive her?
(She looks down at Paige)
Hey, are you okay?
PAIGE
You saved my life
DAN
So, you feel like telling us who you really are?
TRU
Sure. I just gotta do one thing first
(She runs out of the room)
32. INT. Examination Room. DAY.
(Tru hands over her I.D.)
INVIGILATOR
You’re over three hours late
TRU
Better get started then?
(The invigilator frowns, but hands Tru her papers)
TRU
Thank you
(Shot of the clock in the Examination room, it reads 5:10pm. The invigilator drinks coffee, looking round at the students)
(Camera pans around the students, all writing in silence, until it finds Tru. The boy behind her starts to sneeze, Tru quickly reaches into her pocket for a tissue and hands it to him. He sneezes into it)
BOY
Thanks
(Tru smiles)
(Cameras pans along students again, then closing in on Tru, and close-up on her question paper)
(Tru narrows her eyes as a question catches her attention. It starts: “The common cause of petechiae includes all of the following except” and lists the answers as “A. Autoimmune diseases, B. thrombocythemia C. local injury and trauma, D. Cardiac standstill.)
[Flashback of Davis looking at Paige’s eye in the Morgue. DAVIS: “Well it looks like we have a little petechial imaging in the eye…usually associated with some sort of trauma”]
TRU
Oh my God…
[Flashback of Paige’s head twisting to face Tru just before she asked for help]
She didn’t die from the experiment
(Tru gets up from her desk and hurries down the room. The invigilator gets up from his desk and steps into her path)
TRU
I’ll be right back
INVIGILATOR
No, no, no, once you leave, you’re done. You understand? You, your test, your future
TRU
I’m sorry, I have to go, but I can reschedule, right?
INVIGILATOR
Oh sure, sure. Just be back here bright and early first thing…(he checks his watch)…Next year
(Tru stares at him for several seconds)
TRU
Guess I’ll see you next year
(She runs from the room)
33. INT. Factory. DAY.
(Dan Taggert is clearing away equipment)
TRU
She unlocked a memory didn’t she?
DAN
Yeah, but it’s none of your business. Besides, Paige is fine, and you’re not even a medical student
TRU
Well pretty soon you won’t be either unless you tell me where she is
(Dan remains silent)
You wanna play chicken? Because you’re right, I’m not a med student. I have nothing to lose. But you do, especially with those track marks on your arm
(Dan turns to look at her)
Where is she?
DAN
I don’t know. All she remembered was a man. He hurt her, touched her. She wasn’t that specific. And then some crap about the moon and the stars. I don’t know what it means
TRU
I do
Cut to: Shot of Paige’s neighbourhood street, and then Paige’s house
34. INT. Paige’s house. NIGHT.
(Tru runs into Paige’s house)
TRU
Paige! Where is she?
(Tru walks into another room, checking for Paige)
MIKE
I told you, she’s not here
TRU
Paige! I really have to find her
MIKE
All right, I’ve warned you once. I don’t know who you are, or what you think you’re doing, but this is harassment (He picks up the telephone)
TRU
She’s in trouble, Mr Sanders (She takes the handset off Mike and replaces it) You don’t understand…Paige did something tonight
MIKE
What did she do?
TRU
A really stupid and dangerous experiment but now she remembers everything
MIKE
You think this would bring her back to me?
TRU
Her car’s parked out front, you said something about the moon and the stars, that has to mean something
MIKE
Go. Just get out of here!
(Tru shakes her head, turns around and leaves)
35. EXT. Outside Paige’s house. NIGHT.
TRU
That doesn’t make sense
(Her cellphone rings)
Hello?
Cut to: LINDSAY at the bar
Did someone forget her blind date?
Cut to: TRU
Oh, Lindsay, no I didn’t forget I just, I couldn’t make it this time
Cut to: LINDSAY
This time? What, there was a time when you could make it?
Cut to: TRU
I’m sorry
Cut to: LINDSAY
Okay, look, I’ll cover
TRU (voice-over)
You’re the best
LINDSAY
Bye (she hangs up and spots Jeremy near the doorway. He smiles and comes over)
Hi. I’m so sorry, I don’t think my friend’s gonna be able to make it tonight
JEREMY
Oh, oh, you not Tru? Of course not. You’re too good to be Tru
LINDSAY (laughs)
Oh my God, did you just make that up right now? That’s hilarious (she laughs again)
36. EXT. Paige’s house. NIGHT.
(Tru pockets her phone and looks around. She catches sight of the neighbour’s house)
(Camera close-up on Tru, who is looking shocked)
(Camera on the neighbour’s doorway. The window above the door is patterned blue, with a crescent moon and some stars.)
(Camera pans closer up on the image)
TRU
The moon and the stars…It’s the neighbour!
37. INT. Neighbour’s house
NEIGHBOUR (coming down the stairs)
You don’t know what you’re saying
PAIGE (following him)
For the first time in years, I know exactly what I am saying
NEIGHBOUR (backing away)
Paige, Paige, you’ve always been a smart girl, be smart now
PAIGE
I was a child, you son of a bitch. I was 9
NEIGHBOUR
All right, this is ridiculous. I’m calling your father
PAIGE
Good! Call my father. Call the police. Call the district attorney. I’m pressing charges. You are gonna pay for what you did to me
NEIGHBOUR (turning round and grabbing Paige’s wrists)
Just hush. Just be quiet
PAIGE
Don’t touch me!
NEIGHBOUR
Quiet, please!
PAIGE (screams)
Don’t touch me!
NEIGHBOUR (trying to cover Paige’s mouth with his hand)
Sh! Quiet! Sh!
(Paige continues to scream, the neighbour puts his hands around Paige’s throat)
Hush! Quiet! Sh!
(Paige whimpers and gasps for breath)
No-one’s gonna believe you anyway!
(The door opens and slams)
TRU
I’ll believe her
NEIGHBOUR (letting Paige go)
Get out! Get out!
(Paige runs past Tru, out the door, still crying and choking)
There’s a statute of limitations you know, it’s been years. Go ahead, go tell the whole world, who’s gonna believe you?
(Paige turns around to see her father coming up behind her. They embrace tightly)
PAIGE (crying)
Oh God, I’m so sorry Daddy
(Mike Sanders glares at the Neighbour over Paige’s shoulder)
38. EXT. Paige’s neighbourhood. NIGHT.
(Tru and Paige are sitting together)
TRU
So, how you feeling?
PAIGE
I thought remembering would be the end. But it isn’t. Just the first step
TRU
Lot to be said for a good first step
PAIGE
So who are you anyway? And please don’t say Jessica Hansen
TRU
I had to take on her name so I could talk to you. If I told you I was just some med school wanabee who works in a Morgue would you have listened?
PAIGE
Probably not. So why’d you help me?
TRU
Still trying to figure that out for myself. I guess you could say it’s sort of my job
PAIGE
Well if you ever figure it out, you know where to find me. I’d like that. Med school gets a little cold sometimes
TRU
I’ll take your word for it
(They hug)
Good luck
(Paige gets up to go)
PAIGE
Oh, hey, Tru…you’ll make one hell of a doctor someday
TRU
Someday, yeah
39. INT. Morgue. NIGHT.
(Tru is walking to the drawers holding a clipboard in one hand and her cellphone in the other)
LINDSAY (voice-over)
So, how’d the MCATS go?
TRU
They didn’t. How’d my date go?
Cut to: LINDSAY
Not bad. Until he used the same line on the Waitress that he used on me
(Tru laughs)
Honestly, you didn’t miss much
Cut to: TRU
I had a feeling
Cut to: LINDSAY
But still, Tru, I’m telling you the perfect guy is out there somewhere, you just haven’t met him yet
Cut to: Morgue. The elevator opens and Luc steps out
TRU
That, or I’ve met him too many times
Cut to: LINDSAY
Exactly! Wait…how does that work?
Cut to: TRU
See you, Linds.
LUC
Hello again
TRU
Hi. I’m gonna try and get past you here without any hard contact. I don’t wanna break anything
LUC
Yeah I was thinking…about our little accident earlier, maybe it wasn’t such a bad thing. Because otherwise, we never would have met. And I’m glad we did
TRU
Yeah, me too. At least this time you won’t forget me
LUC
I don’t think I could ever forget you
(They both laugh)
Anyway, I gotta go. Um, to be continued?
TRU
Absolutely. Oh, say hi to your folks
(Luc looks confused)
Like I said, lucky guesser
(They both walk away in opposite directions. Tru’s cellphone rings)
Hello?
HARRISON (voice-over)
Tru
TRU
Harrison, please, for the last time, I can’t remember…
Cut to: HARRISON (in the café, with a girl sitting next to him, fussing over him)
No, no, no, listen. I didn’t go to the track today after all. And you know what? I had a great day
Cut to: TRU
Really?
Cut to: HARRISON
Yeah. I had some fun. I read a book. I can’t remember the last time I did that. And plus, you know, other stuff…(he removes the girl’s hand from his shirt front) The point is, I had a great day. And I didn’t need a boost from my big sister to do it this time
Cut to: TRU
Hey, I’m not surprised. You just gotta believe in yourself a little
Cut to: HARRISON
Kinda like you, huh?
Cut to: TRU
Just like me. Goodnight, Harrison
(She hangs up, and takes a slip of paper out of her pocket. Under the light, we can see it reads: Harrison’s Trificta: Cherry Top, Sky Marker, Whirligig)
I knew you didn’t need this
(She screws it up and puts it in the trashcan)
DAVIS (coming in)
Hey, you were right. County Records called. It’s your mom’s file. Whenever you’re ready (he places it down on the side)
(Tru picks it up gingerly)
TRU
Thanks Davis
DAVIS
You gonna open them?
TRU
Later. I was kinda hoping to live in the present for a little bit
DAVIS
Sorry about the MCATS. Guess that means you’ll be sticking around here a little bit longer
TRU
Maybe that’s not such a bad thing. It’s funny, I met a girl today. All she really wanted to do was understand, why she feels the things she does. Maybe that’s all any of us want. Just to understand
DAVIS
And you don’t?
TRU
Not lately, no
(Davis sighs)
DAVIS
It’s not easy, is it? Carrying the burden you do
TRU
Excuse me?
DAVIS
Some would call it a blessing. Others a curse. I see it more as a, uh, a calling
TRU
Davis…
DAVIS
I know more than you think I know, Tru. About what you can do. About how you help the dead get another chance at life. Have a seat, Tru. It’s time I told you what I know
[Fade to Black]
[END CREDITS]
1. EXT. Neighbourhood Street. DAY.
(A teenage boy skateboards across the street, straight into a blue bin sitting by the road. One of the neighbours walks over)
NEIGHBOUR
Hey, hey
(He picks up the bin; the boy picks up his skateboard and skates off. The neighbour looks up, hearing voices coming from the house across the street)
PAIGE SANDERS (off-screen)
Daddy, I’m leaving
MIKE SANDERS (off-screen)
But you won’t even let me finish!
(Paige comes out of the house, followed by her dad)
MIKE
Sweetheart, please don’t go. Not like this. Paige, I promise you there’s nothing wrong with my baby girl
PAIGE
I’m not a baby. And I’m not your girl
(Shot of the Neighbour watching them)
MIKE (trying to put an arm round her)
Paige…
PAIGE
Don’t touch me!
(She walks over to her car and gets inside)
MIKE
God, have you ever considered that nothing happened? That this is all just a figment of your imagination?
PAIGE (out of her car window)
I give myself more credit than that. Because pretty soon, the truth is gonna come out and when it does, I can promise you one thing, I’m not the only person who’s gonna have to deal with it. You are, Daddy
(She starts the engine)
MIKE
Paige!
(Paige roars off down the street in the car. Mike doesn’t watch her go)
2. INT. Morgue Office. DAY.
DAVIS
Okay hotshot. Bonus question, you ready?
TRU
Hit me
DAVIS
Riddle me this…the odontoid ligaments serve to limit the extent to which?
TRU
The cranium’s rotation can be carried. Which is why they’re also known as check ligaments. You gonna eat that?
DAVIS
It’s all yours smarty-pants. I am finished with cramming for your MCATS
TRU
Oh come on, we haven’t even started on the sympathetic nervous system!
(Davis walks through into his office, and takes off his lab coat)
DAVIS
You know the secret for acing the MCATS? Quit cramming. Get some sleep, Tru. Go home
(He sits down to change his shoes)
TRU
I’m just so excited! If I ace the MCATS tomorrow I get into Medical School. I do that, I become a doctor. I become a doctor and I can finally say goodbye –
DAVIS (looks up)
To working here?
(Tru says nothing. Davis gets up, picks up his jacket and walks past her)
TRU
Come on, I didn’t mean it like that
DAVIS
I got a feeling it’s not gonna happen
TRU
You think I won’t pass? I nailed every question you asked, plus the ones you made up
DAVIS
No, no, that’s not what I meant. I’m sure you’ll ace them. It’s just meant that, sometimes I get the feeling that some people don’t belong here. And some people do
TRU
So which am I? I belong here or not?
DAVIS (stopping at the double doors)
What do you think?
(Tru stares at him. Davis walks through the doors. Shot of Tru looking thoughtful, the camera pans further and further out until the whole room is in shot)
[Fade to black]
[CREDITS]
3. INT. Tru’s bedroom. DAY
(Camera on an MCATS study guide open on a page, pans around the room to show several more study Aids, and then across to Tru who is asleep in bed, with yet another study book propped open on her chest. The telephone rings; Tru sits up and reaches out for it)
TRU
Hello?
LINDSAY
Bitch-cakes! Hi, its Lindsay
TRU
I guessed
Cut to: LINDSAY (walking in the street)
Uh, so listen – I found a guy
Cut to: TRU (getting out of bed)
I’m shocked
Cut to: LINDSAY
Not for me, for you – his name’s Jeremy. I haven’t met him myself but he’s totally your type!
Cut to: TRU (in the kitchen, picking up a coffee cup and filter paper)
If you haven’t met him yourself, how do you know he’s my type?
Cut to: LINDSAY
Tru, it’s my gift. So stop asking questions, and start looking for that little black Dolce and Gabbana dress I got you last Christmas
Cut to: TRU
Lindsay, we’ve been through this. I’m not on the market, and I’m taking my MCATS this afternoon
Cut to: LINDSAY
Perfect! You can meet him after. And don’t worry; I’ll be there to Chaperone, so now you’re all out of excuses. Say you’ll be there
Cut to: TRU
I’ll be there
Cut to: LINDSAY
Smart girl. Oh, good luck on your test
Cut to: TRU
Thanks
(They both hang up. Tru picks up the coffee bag to pour into the filter, but its empty. She sighs)
4. INT. Café. DAY
HARRISON
Don’t take this the wrong way, but you look like crap
TRU
Thanks, Harrison! That’s very sweet. I told you, I’ve been up studying all night. Because in 45 minutes, I’m gonna take the biggest test of my life
HARRISON
Right. The Top Cats
TRU
MCATS
HARRISON
I just wanna make sure you’re okay
TRU
Outside the big test jitters, I’m fine, thanks
HARRISON
Is everything else copacetic? Feeling good? Having fun?
(Tru narrows her eyebrows at him)
Look, you know me, always looking out for you, because I know you’d do the same thing for me
TRU
All right, what do you want?
HARRISON
Nothing, man! What, a guy can’t worry about his own sister without being accused of working an angle? Jeez, I’m offended…how could you actually say that to me?
TRU
It’s about what I told you, isn’t it? About me, you know – what I can do
HARRISON
Okay, A – I don’t even believe you, and B – even if I did, I would still need some cold, hard…(he pushes a newspaper over to Tru)…proof
TRU (picking it up)
“The Racing Forum”?
HARRISON
You want me to believe you, right? Well here’s a way!
(Tru rolls her eyes)
I go to the track, I see who wins. I call you up on the phone, give you the horses names. And tomorrow, should you – you know, do that voodoo you do so well…
TRU
You make money
HARRISON (with a grin)
Yeah
TRU
Harrison, I don’t think that’s how it works
HARRISON
I’m not even sure it works at all! But I’ve heard of weirder systems so what the hell? Give it a shot
(Tru smiles. Harrison leans over the table towards her)
Are you down with this? Or do I have to go work for a living?
TRU
I’ll see what I can do. But now I gotta go
HARRISON
I love my sister! Go. Go take your MCATS. Kick much academic ass!
TRU
Thanks!
5. INT. Examination Room. DAY.
(The invigilator stands behind his desk, looking at the rows upon rows of students in front of him who are writing hastily onto their exam papers. The room is silent.)
(Camera pans in on Tru. The boy behind her sneezes – he looks at her apologetically)
(The invigilator looks at the large digital clock on his desk counting down to the end of the exam. It’s reading 8 seconds…7 seconds…6 seconds…)
INVIGILATOR (as the clock beeps)
Time. Time’s up people, pencils down
(Tru looks at her paper, and suddenly laughs triumphantly. The invigilator looks at her sternly, her laughter subsides into a smile)
6. INT. Bar. NIGHT.
(Tru and Lindsay are sitting at a table in a bar, raising their glasses in a toast)
LINDSAY
To my best friend, Tru, who just aced her MCATS and who will make a wonderful doctor someday
TRU
Cheers
LINDSAY
I’m not done yet. Who will always squeeze me in on short notice and accept whatever health insurance I carry
TRU
Of course
LINDSAY
Okay. Cheers!
(They clink glasses and drink, each murmuring “mmm”. Then Lindsay points over to the doorway. A guy is standing there, looking around)
TRU
Is that him?
LINDSAY (impressed)
Gotta be. God, can I pick ‘em or can I pick ‘em?
(She walks over to him)
Hey, Jeremy?
JEREMY
Yes. Hi
LINDSAY
Hi
(They walk back over to the table)
TRU
Jeremy
JEREMY
That’s me. But you can’t be Tru…you’re too good to be true
TRU
Yeah…my name does lend itself to more obvious puns
JEREMY
I spent all day thinking that up. Do you mind?
(Without waiting for an answer, he picks up Tru’s drink and starts drinking)
Cut to: Later on in the “date”
(The table is full of food but only Jeremy is eating. Tru stares blankly ahead)
JEREMY
Yeah, I never usually go on blind dates ‘cause who knows what you’re gonna get? So at first I was all like, “wait, she works in a morgue?” Because, come on, you’re too hot to work in a morgue, you ought to switch jobs. You ought to be in like, videos or something
TRU
I have to go
JEREMY
Oh right, right, night shift. Creepy
(Tru gets up to go)
So, I’ll call you! Oh wait, you forgot to give me your number
(Tru turns around, shrugs and smiles, and walks away)
7. INT. Morgue corridor. NIGHT.
(Tru sees Luc coming in the opposite direction)
TRU
Luc, hi
LUC
Hi…have we met?
TRU
Yeah…(remembers the day they met was a re-run day and the meeting never took place)…in the “we’ve never actually met” kinda way…I heard there might be a new guy
LUC
That would be me…Luc (he holds out his hand)
TRU
Tru (she shakes it)
LUC
Dress code?
TRU
Blind date.
LUC
Oh
TRU
Bad one
LUC
Ooh, well is there any other kind?
(Tru laughs)
TRU
My friend Lindsay thinks it’s her life’s work to fix me up
LUC
She worried you can’t meet a nice guy?
TRU
Worried I can’t meet a living one
LUC
She shouldn’t. Worry, I mean
TRU
Why? Know someone for me?
LUC
Give me some time
(They smile at each other)
Anyway, I gotta run. My folks are in town. But its nice to meet you
TRU
Yeah
LUC (backing into the lift)
Tru
TRU
Luc
(The doors close. Close up on Tru; Her cellphone rings)
Hello?
Cut to: HARRISON (in the café)
Hey, hey, its me. And I hold in my hands the key to financial freedom
Cut to: TRU
A job interview?
Cut to: HARRISON
Ha ha, that’s very funny. But no. What I have are the winning horses from the last race at Del Mar
Cut to: TRU
Great…
Cut to: HARRISON
It’s a 40-1 trifecta Tru. So write this down. Today’s lucky ponies are: Cherry Top, Sky Marker and Whirligig.
Cut to: TRU
You know, I have no idea why I can do what I do, but I’m pretty sure it’s not so I can pick up the ponies
HARRISON (voice-over)
Just tell me you got them
TRU
I got them okay, you happy?
Cut to: HARRISON
No, but I will be tomorrow, if my big sister’s as lucky as she claims to be
Cut to: TRU
Uh-huh, I gotta go, love you
DAVIS (off-screen)
Tru?
TRU
Oh Davis, I didn’t hear you come in
DAVIS
Yeah, hi, I meant to tell you I got a call from County Records today, something about an autopsy report you requested?
TRU
Yeah, my, umm, my mother’s
DAVIS
Oh…stupid (he bangs his own head against the door)
TRU
Is there a problem?
DAVIS
I’m sorry. Had I known, I would have authorized delivery. Since I didn’t know, I just…
TRU
Its okay, I’ll just get them tomorrow
DAVIS
Oh no, not likely. The clerk went on holiday tonight for a couple of weeks. With all the red tape downtown you’re probably gonna have to wait until he gets back
TRU (obviously disappointed)
It’s okay. I waited ten years; another few weeks won’t kill me right?
DAVIS
Still…I can’t help but wonder if those are the answers you’re really looking for
TRU
Why, what are you…
(Gardez wheels a trolley past the doorway)
GARDEZ
We’ve got a cold one
8. INT. Post-Mortem Room, Morgue. NIGHT.
(Davis takes the sheet off the dead body. Gardez is holding a clipboard)
GARDEZ
Name’s Paige Sanders, medical student at Hudson. Well, until 4:31 today
TRU
Hudson, that’s the top medical school in the state
GARDEZ
Didn’t do her any good
TRU
How’d she die?
DAVIS
Here’s a guess. Knowing the high-pressure world of most Med students, I would posit this one worked hard. But probably played a little bit harder
(Close up on Paige’s arm, there is a bruise and a needle mark)
TRU
Overdose. God, that makes no sense. Hudson get their pick of the best and the brightest. She had it all
DAVIS
What can I tell you, Tru? Some med students can hack the pressure
GARDEZ
Yeah, and some can’t
TRU
No, but why would she –
GARDEZ
Never met a newbie as curious as you, Tru, relax. You can’t help her now
TRU
Come on, Davis, what more can you tell me?
DAVIS
Well it looks like we have a little petechial imaging in the eye
(Close-up of Paige’s eye which has small red marks around the eyeball)
Usually associated with some sort of trauma
TRU
Could be associated with the drug intake. Coughing, vomiting, internal pressure of some kind?
DAVIS
Wow. Someone’s gonna do well on their MCATS. That’s good. Just to be sure, we should prepare the body for a toxicology report. I wanna know exactly what chemicals were in this student’s body when she died (he leaves the room)
GARDEZ
Hey wait up Davis (he follows)
TRU (to Paige)
You have no idea how lucky you were
(She stares at the body for a few more seconds. There is a silence. Then, Paige’s head twists to look at Tru)
PAIGE
Save me
[Flashbacks of the day’s images as the day re-winds]
9. INT. Tru’s bedroom. DAY.
(Shot of the MCATS study guides, camera pans round the room and shows Tru asleep in bed. The telephone rings)
TRU
Hello?
LINDSAY
Bitch-cakes! Hey, its Lindsay
(Tru sits up straighter, remembering)
Too tired to talk? Okay, fine, because I found a guy, his name’s Jeremy and he’s totally your type
[Fade to black]
[Flashbacks of the day’s images]
(Shot of the City Morgue building)
10. INT. Morgue. DAY.
(Tru bursts in through the doors, over to the post-mortem trolley, which is empty. She stares at it, and Davis walks into the room)
DAVIS
Morning
TRU
You ever have one of the greatest days of your life, I mean a really, truly great day, and then just feel like the whole thing got erased?
DAVIS
You’re assuming I’ve ever had a great day? What are you doing?
TRU
I’m just checking for something. Hey, did we get any medical students last night?
DAVIS
The only medical student here is you, in a couple of hours. Aren’t you taking the MCATS today?
TRU
I did (looks at Davis and backtracks) I will. I just have to do one thing first
(She turns to leave)
DAVIS
You have quite the life don’t you?
(He goes into his office)
TRU
Unfortunately, yeah. Oh, and Davis!
(He leans back out from his office)
…if County Records just happens to call, go ahead and authorize delivery. I want those files
(Davis raises his eyebrows, and enters his office. Tru turns and goes through the doors, hitting Luc on the other side. His camera clatters to the floor and breaks)
TRU
Oh my God, Luc, I’m sorry. Here, let me help you
LUC
No, thanks, really, I got it
TRU
Tell me it’s fixable…
LUC
Well I would, but then I’d probably be lying
(Tru sighs)
How’d you know my name?
TRU
What?
LUC
You called me Luc, just now, but we’ve never met before
TRU
I’m a lucky guesser
LUC
Yeah, well… (he starts to walk away) Nice running into you
TRU (turning round)
Tell me this day gets better
(Ext. Shot of Hudson University)
(Int. Shot of Hudson’s reception area and the clock which reads 10am)
11. INT. Hudson reception. DAY.
(Tru hurries down some stairs and across to the desk. Another girl is leaning against the desk, looking bored and frustrated.)
JESSICA
Check again. My records have to be here
(The admissions officer sighs and types something into her computer)
JESSICA
Are you sure you’re using that thing right?
(Tru cellphone rings)
TRU
Hello?
HARRISON (voice-over)
Tru, where are ya?
TRU (turning her back on the reception desk)
Oh God, Harrison, breakfast
Cut to: HARRISON (in the café)
Why’d you blow me off? I’ve been waiting, like, half an hour
Cut to: TRU
It’s not my fault. I’m having…I’m having one of those mornings
Cut to: HARRISON
So you’re telling me what? We already had this conversation?
(He takes out “The Racing Forum” from his back pocket)
Cut to: TRU
Do you have “the Racing Forum” in front of you?
HARRISON
Proves nothing, except that if you’re having one of your so-called lucky days, you should be telling me today’s winning horses
TRU
I don’t remember
HARRISON
What??
TRU
They were horse names, Harrison. How am I supposed to remember them?
HARRISON
You know, you talk a good game, but I knew you couldn’t do it Tru. I knew it! See you
(Tru sighs and hangs up. She turns back to the desk)
JESSICA (exasperated)
It’s Hansen. Jessica Hansen. The transfer should have come in hours ago from Harvard Medical
ADMISSIONS OFFICER
I’ll be sure to let you know the moment they come in
JESSICA
You do that
(She gives the Admissions officer a dirty look and walks away)
TRU
Hi. Just a thought but when her files come in, you should bounce them back to Harvard just for laughs
ADMISSIONS OFFICER
Don’t give me any ideas. What can I do for you?
TRU
My friend, Paige Sanders, is a student. I wanna surprise her. Do you know where I could find her now?
ADMISSIONS OFFICER
I’m not allowed to say
TRU
I get that. Too bad, though. She just got a residency at the Mayo Clinic. And I’d love to see the look on Harvard’s face when she learns my friend got in and she didn’t
(The Admissions officer smiles and types onto the computer)
ADMISSIONS OFFICER
Got her. Building theater C. But you didn’t hear it from me
TRU
Didn’t hear what from you?
(Ext. Shot of Hudson University)
12. INT. Theater C. DAY.
(Two students are at the front of the class; on a trolley in front of them is a body and surgical implements)
PROFESSOR
Mr Taggert, would you tell your fellow surgeons-in-training what exactly you’re doing to this poor dead man’s heart
DAN TAGGERT
Like you taught, Sir, I’m just making a cut between the inferior vena cava
PROFESSOR
And the, what? Anyone? And the?
STEVEN
Eustachian Valve, sir
PROFESSOR
Good. Taking particular care not to sever?
(He looks up into the students)
Miss Sanders?
[Flashback of Paige Sanders lying dead in the Morgue. Gardez: “Name’s Paige Sanders”.)
[Flashback of the moment Paige asked for help. Paige: “Save me”]
PROFESSOR
Miss Sanders?
PAIGE
Uh, the uh…
TRU (whispering)
Anterior margin
PAIGE
The uh, uh…
PROFESSOR
The answer I’m looking for is anterior margin
PAIGE
Right, no, and I knew that, I just…
PROFESSOR
We all knew the answer, Miss Sanders. The question is time. Time matters. To us, time is the difference between life and death
(Tru glances up at the clock. It reads 10:30am)
Time has value, Miss Sanders. And please do not waste our time. For those of you who will actually become doctors, our minds are the most valuable tools we possess. And we must keep them sharp at all times. Thank you. See you next week. Take your notes
(He walks out of the room)
(Tru looks up at Paige, who is looking humiliated)
13. EXT. Hudson University, outside the entrance. DAY.
(Tru is waiting for Paige. She sees her walking away from the building. Dan Taggert and Steven follow her)
DAN
“The mind is the most valuable tool”. We guys should know, he’s the biggest tool on campus
STEVEN
He acts like he’s Zeus or something, I hate that
DAN
Well the least he can do is realise he’s not God. I am!
(They laugh)
DAN
Hey, Sanders! Nice work in there. Very impressive
PAIGE
Give me a break, both you guys okay? I’m not in the mood
DAN
Relax, Sanders, it’s us
TRU
Excuse me!
(Dan, Paige and Steven turn round. Dan is putting on his jacket – Tru notices track marks on his arm)
Hi! You guys are second years, right?
DAN
Yeah, that’s right. Who’s asking
TRU
Name’s Hansen. Jessica Hansen. I just got in from Harvard today
[Flashback of the girl by Reception. Jessica: “Jessica Hansen”]
DAN
Yeah, I saw you inside
PAIGE
Yeah, you were observing us
TRU
Yeah what can I say, I’m just naturally curious
DAN
Good for you. Welcome to Hudson. But as you’ve, er, observed, we are second years, which means we’re busy
(They all turn round to go)
TRU
Hey, is it true what they say about you guys?
DAN
I don’t know, what is it exactly they say about us?
TRU
That you’re good
DAN
They’d be right about that
PAIGE
What else do they say?
TRU
That you throw the best parties, well-connected, got some heavy-hitting careers lined up for yourselves. But that’s not the whole story, is it?
(They all look at each other)
Look, I’m cool with it. I came here to hook up with some color-outside-the-lines types
DAN
Maybe we are. Maybe we aren’t. My question would be what’s it to you?
TRU
Like I said, I’m just trying to make some new friends. Oh, and by the way, that professor had no right to talk to you that way
PAIGE
The name’s Paige and I can take care of myself
TRU
I believe it. Listen, I just got out of one alpha boys club. I’m new in town. Come on, help a sister out. Just welcome me to campus. I’ll buy you a meal?
PAIGE
Yeah, I can’t, we –
STEVEN
We’re busy
TRU
Doing what?
DAN
Nothing that concerns you (Turns to Paige) But go ahead. Enjoy your meal. We’re not doing anything with you
PAIGE
Okay
14. INT. Cafe. DAY.
(Tru and Paige are sitting at a table opposite each other, eating)
PAIGE
To be honest, I can’t remember the last time I sat down and ate a solid meal
TRU
Thought you might need a break. You got that whole overachiever thing going for you
PAIGE (laughs)
Yeah, right, I’m doing everything I can just to keep up
TRU
You seem to push yourself pretty hard
PAIGE
Yeah but I mean who doesn’t? You, me, I mean it’s the whole med school thing, right? You pass your MCATS, always busting your ass trying to max out your potential
TRU
It must be nice
PAIGE
Hmm?
TRU
I just, you know, have to stop and appreciate it sometimes. Not everyone’s so lucky, we got in. So let me ask you, is everyone here as uptight as your friends?
PAIGE (laughs)
Those guys, they’re all right. I mean you know what the competition can do you
TRU
Sure, but that doesn’t mean we have to hurt ourselves just to keep up with them
PAIGE
What are you talking about?
(Paige’s cellphone rings)
Sorry
(She answers it)
Hello? Now? Yeah, no, I’ll be right there. All right
(She hangs up)
Listen, thanks for lunch but I um, I gotta run
(She grabs her bag and stands up to go. Tru jumps up too)
TRU
Paige, I know
PAIGE
You know what?
TRU
About the drugs. I don’t know if you do it to keep up, or to wind down but
PAIGE
Drugs? What are you talking about?
(Tru grabs Paige’s arm and rolls her sleeve up)
Hey!
(Her arm is clean)
[Flashback to Davis showing Tru Paige’s arm in the Morgue, clearly needle-marked]
(Shot of Paige’s clean arm)
PAIGE (pulling her arm away)
What kind of freak are you?
TRU
Okay, now I’m confused
PAIGE
Don’t touch me. Don’t come near me. Look, I don’t know what your psycho agenda is, but screw you. Stay away from me
(She walks out.)
Cut to: Shot of Paige walking across Campus
(Camera pans across to show Tru is following her)
Cut to: Paige walking past a chain-link fence into a disused factory yard
Cut to: Tru walking across the same yard
Cut to: Paige crossing over to a door in the building and entering it
Cut to: Tru crossing to the door, entering and closing it behind her
15. INT. Factory. DAY.
(Tru peers around the corner. There is a rhythmic beeping sound, like a hospital heartbeat monitor.)
Cut to: Dan Taggert, staring down at Steven, who is lying on a trolley, with various wires attached to him. He is unconscious, the machine next to him monitoring his heartbeat. Paige is standing next to them.
(The beeping slows down. The machine shows “HR: 17” then “HR: 9”. Shot of Dan, looking at the monitor.)
(Close-up of the monitor flashing red “HR: 0”)
DAN
Finally
PAIGE
Yeah, we are up and running
DAN
Congratulations doctor, we did it
(Shot of Paige, who is looking up at Dan)
(Shot of Dan, close-up)
DAN
He’s dead
(Shot of Tru looking horrified)
[Fade to black]
[Flashback of the day’s images as they rewind]
16. INT. Factory. DAY.
(The machine continues to flatline, showing “HR:0”. Tru is still watching them)
DAN
Looking good, keep him steady. Time?
PAIGE
Eight seconds
DAN
Death looks good on you, Steven
(Shot of the timer counting seconds)
PAIGE
Twelve seconds, we’re getting close
(Shot of Tru watching. Electricity charges through the Defibrillator Paddles)
Okay, twenty seconds, time to do your thing
DAN
Clear
(He shocks Steven with the Paddles. The alarm continues to sound)
PAIGE
No change
(Close up of the timer, counting 31 seconds, 32 seconds…)
(Dan and Paige both stare at Steven, looking slightly worried)
(Close up of the monitor still flatlining…then it starts rhythmic beeping as the heartbeat returns. Dan smiles)
(Shot of the monitor saying “HR:27”. Shot of Tru still watching them)
(Dan and Paige stare at Steven. He opens his eyes and gasps)
STEVEN
Now that…was a trip
PAIGE
Did it work for you Steven?
DAN
I’ve got a better question (he points directly at Tru) What the hell is she doing here?
TRU
I could ask you the same thing. I bet your answer’s a lot more interesting than mine
DAN
Guess again
TRU
I’m guessing what I just saw could get you all kicked out of med school by lunchtime. Or, we could talk
17. EXT. Campus grounds. DAY.
(Tru is walking with Dan)
TRU
So let me get this straight, you’ve got this little hobby, you kill yourselves?
DAN
For starters
(They reach a bench where Paige and Steven are sitting)
TRU
And then you resuscitate
PAIGE
That’s the plan
TRU
But what’s the point?
STEVEN
The point, Jessica, is that when you come back, you’re not the same (he smiles) You know the urban myth about the moment you die your whole life flashes before your eyes? It’s true
TRU (nodding)
Memories. You’re unlocking repressed memories
DAN
And what are they anyway, memories? Just chemicals locked in the brain between your occipital fissure and the temporal lobe
PAIGE
And the best part is they’re just lying there, waiting to be tapped into
TRU
You guys are good. Too bad your little experiment kills you
STEVEN
Uh-uh. Almost kills you
(Tru stares at him)
I saw my father’s face the day he left me. I was 2 and a half when it happened and now it’s as clear as… (He laughs) Let’s just say high-def video can kiss my ass cause I have clarity. Crystal clear memory of that day and so much more
PAIGE
I’m next
TRU
No, Paige, you can’t. You wanna dig into your past, I get it, but there’s gotta be a better way. You can deal with this. All you have to do is go to the source. Find out whoever it is you have unresolved issues with
PAIGE
And what? Have a good long talk with them? See their point of view? Reach closure? You think I haven’t already tried that? You think this isn’t my last resort? Fine, you know so much? You go talk to my father. Because nothing is gonna stop me
(She gets up and walks away, followed by Dan and Steve)
18. INT. Reception area at Hudson. DAY.
(Shot of the clock which reads 1pm. The admissions officer sits at her desk, holding a cup and stirring a spoon around her coffee)
TRU
Hi. I need just one more thing
19. EXT. Paige’s house. DAY.
(Tru gets out of a taxi and sees the Neighbour, who is carrying a reel of hosepipe)
TRU
Mr Sanders?
NEIGHBOUR
Right block, wrong house. Mike Sanders lives right there
(He points across the street)
TRU
Thanks
NEIGHBOUR
My pleasure
(Tru walks up to the house)
20. EXT. Paige’s house. DAY.
(Tru is on the doorstep, talking to Mike Sanders)
MIKE
Who’d you say you were?
TRU
A friend of Paige’s. We go to school together. Mr Sanders, I’m really worried about her. I think she’s gonna hurt herself
MIKE
No. My daughter would never do anything like that
TRU
I wish you were right, but I don’t think you are, and you’re the only one who can stop her
MIKE
Why am I the only one?
TRU
You’re her father. You have a history with Paige that …
MIKE
Look. Whatever she told you about me isn’t true. Touch my own daughter? It’s sickening even thinking about it. And the craziest part is, Paige doesn’t remember anything. Just some nonsense about the moon and the stars
TRU
The moon and the stars, what’s that mean?
MIKE
You’re her friend. You tell me
21. INT. Examination Hall. DAY.
(The invigilator paces in front of his desk, looking up at the rows of students ready to take the MCATS)
INVIGILATOR (looking at his list)
Tru Davies. Is Tru Davies here?
(The other students look around. Camera pans to show Tru’s empty desk)
22. EXT. Campus grounds. DAY.
(Tru is on her cellphone)
HARRISON (voice-over)
I thought you were taking your test
TRU
I am. I’m just going a little late. I have to find someone first
HARRISON
Then I’m glad I caught you
(Cut to show Harrison in the Café, “The Racing Forum” in front of him)
Look, I need you to concentrate. And the names of the horses are?
Cut to: TRU
Harrison, I told you I can’t remember them, look I’m really sorry…
PAIGE (off-screen)
Hey, Hansen!
TRU (to Harrison)
I gotta go
Cut to: HARRISON
Tru!
(He slams the phone down in frustration)
PAIGE
Were you just talking to my father? What’s wrong with you? First you force your way into my life, then my group, now my home? How Single White Female are you?
TRU
I know I’m butting in. Just give me one minute to explain
PAIGE
Okay, one minute
23. EXT. Campus grounds. DAY.
(Tru and Paige are walking along together)
TRU
I was 12 when my mom died
PAIGE
You were just a kid. Wow…
TRU
I watched it happen. Right in front of me. I have questions about my mother’s murder that I may never be able to answer. As much as I’d like to know the truth, it’s not worth dying over
PAIGE
Yeah, but why do you think I would die?
TRU
Because I’ve done the research. The heart can’t withstand it, and if the heart does, the brain can’t. Sure, some people get lucky and come out okay, but not everyone. Not you. Look, do yourself a favour. Call it off. Its suicide
PAIGE
I mean, it’s not like I’ve never had doubts, I mean, I just…I have these feelings about my past and…I don’t know what else to do
TRU
Talk to your father again, or a therapist, anyone. Just don’t go through with the experiment
(There is a few seconds silence)
PAIGE
Fine. I’ll call it off. I don’t know why I trust you, but I do. I’ll tell the guys
TRU
That’s great. You have no idea how relieved I am…
DAN (off-screen)
Harvard, how’s it going?
PAIGE
Hey Dan, actually I’m glad you’re here because I wanted to talk to you about something
DAN
Sure, great, love to hear it. There’s just someone I met at the sign-ups for molecular bio. I really think you should meet her
(He turns round and beckons a girl forward. Tru recognises her at once as Jessica Hansen)
JESSICA
Hi, Jessica Hansen?
(to Dan) Is this the one you told me about?
DAN
And will the real Jessica Hansen please stand up?
PAIGE
I don’t understand…
TRU
Paige, I can explain
JESSICA
Allow me. I’m Jessica Hansen. I transferred from Harvard yesterday. And this woman here is trying some lame-ass identity scam. Which, sorry honey, it won’t work
DAN
And now that’s over with… how about you tell us who the hell you really are?
TRU
Paige, I…
PAIGE
Don’t. Because as far as I’m concerned, everything you’ve told me is a lie. I bet you’re not even a real medical student, are you?
(She walks away, followed by Dan and Jessica)
TRU
Paige, just wait
(She stares after them)
Cut to: Shot of the Hudson University building
24. EXT. Entrance of Hudson University. DAY.
(Tru outside the entrance. She looks at her watch. It reads 2:30pm)
TRU
Two hours and counting
(She sees Steven coming)
Steven. Steven, wait up
STEVEN
What do you want from me?
TRU
You’ve gotta talk her out of it
STEVEN
No way
TRU
It’s going to kill her
STEVEN
No it’s won’t. Look at me, I’ve never been better
TRU
Look, we all have questions we need answered. But Steven, Paige is gonna make the biggest mistake of her life in just a few hours unless you talk her out of it.
STEVEN
Little late for that
TRU
Why?
STEVEN
She’s doing it right now
(He walks away. Camera shot of Tru, looking panicked)
[Fade to black]
[Flashback of the days images so far]
25. INT. Factory. DAY.
(Dan is preparing a syringe. Paige is lying on the trolley, with various wires attached to her chest. Dan inserts the syringe into Paige’s arm. She raises her head to look at it for a second, and then lies back down)
26. EXT. Campus grounds. DAY.
(Tru runs across the grounds)
27. INT. Factory. DAY.
(Paige is lying motionless, eyes closed. Dan looks at her, then over at the monitor. It is steady rhythmic beeping, showing “HR:37” then it begins to flatline, the heartbeat gradually dropping, flashing red on the screen)
28. EXT. Factory grounds. DAY.
(Tru runs across the disused factory yard)
29. INT. Factory. DAY.
(The machine shows “HR:0” The Defibrillator Paddles charge electricity)
DAN
Okay, ready to come back
(He shocks her; her body jerks. The machine still shows “HR:0”)
DAN
Come on
(Shot of the timer showing 23 seconds, 24 seconds)
30. EXT. Factory grounds. DAY.
(Tru reaches the factory door, pulls it open and runs inside)
31. INT. Factory. DAY.
(Dan shocks Paige again. The machine still shows “HR:0”. Dan looks worried now)
(Shot of the timer which reads 37 seconds, 38 seconds)
(Dan looks up as Tru comes running towards him)
DAN
Can’t get her back, she’s not responding
TRU
Got any dobutamine?
DAN
No
TRU
Dopamine?
DAN
No, none of that either
(The Defibrillator Paddles charge electricity. Tru shocks Paige again, the machine is still flatlining)
She’s been under too long. She should have been out by now
(Tru rubs the pads together, electric charging through them, and shocks Paige for a fourth time. Nothing happens. Anxiously, she rubs the pads together again, getting ready for a fifth when the monitor finds a heartbeat and begins its rhythmic beeping. Paige stirs)
DAN
It’s amazing, isn’t it? How thin the line between life and death can be? The instant recovery time, see that’s why I designed all this the way that I did…
TRU
That’s great, Dan. What would you have done if I couldn’t revive her?
(She looks down at Paige)
Hey, are you okay?
PAIGE
You saved my life
DAN
So, you feel like telling us who you really are?
TRU
Sure. I just gotta do one thing first
(She runs out of the room)
32. INT. Examination Room. DAY.
(Tru hands over her I.D.)
INVIGILATOR
You’re over three hours late
TRU
Better get started then?
(The invigilator frowns, but hands Tru her papers)
TRU
Thank you
(Shot of the clock in the Examination room, it reads 5:10pm. The invigilator drinks coffee, looking round at the students)
(Camera pans around the students, all writing in silence, until it finds Tru. The boy behind her starts to sneeze, Tru quickly reaches into her pocket for a tissue and hands it to him. He sneezes into it)
BOY
Thanks
(Tru smiles)
(Cameras pans along students again, then closing in on Tru, and close-up on her question paper)
(Tru narrows her eyes as a question catches her attention. It starts: “The common cause of petechiae includes all of the following except” and lists the answers as “A. Autoimmune diseases, B. thrombocythemia C. local injury and trauma, D. Cardiac standstill.)
[Flashback of Davis looking at Paige’s eye in the Morgue. DAVIS: “Well it looks like we have a little petechial imaging in the eye…usually associated with some sort of trauma”]
TRU
Oh my God…
[Flashback of Paige’s head twisting to face Tru just before she asked for help]
She didn’t die from the experiment
(Tru gets up from her desk and hurries down the room. The invigilator gets up from his desk and steps into her path)
TRU
I’ll be right back
INVIGILATOR
No, no, no, once you leave, you’re done. You understand? You, your test, your future
TRU
I’m sorry, I have to go, but I can reschedule, right?
INVIGILATOR
Oh sure, sure. Just be back here bright and early first thing…(he checks his watch)…Next year
(Tru stares at him for several seconds)
TRU
Guess I’ll see you next year
(She runs from the room)
33. INT. Factory. DAY.
(Dan Taggert is clearing away equipment)
TRU
She unlocked a memory didn’t she?
DAN
Yeah, but it’s none of your business. Besides, Paige is fine, and you’re not even a medical student
TRU
Well pretty soon you won’t be either unless you tell me where she is
(Dan remains silent)
You wanna play chicken? Because you’re right, I’m not a med student. I have nothing to lose. But you do, especially with those track marks on your arm
(Dan turns to look at her)
Where is she?
DAN
I don’t know. All she remembered was a man. He hurt her, touched her. She wasn’t that specific. And then some crap about the moon and the stars. I don’t know what it means
TRU
I do
Cut to: Shot of Paige’s neighbourhood street, and then Paige’s house
34. INT. Paige’s house. NIGHT.
(Tru runs into Paige’s house)
TRU
Paige! Where is she?
(Tru walks into another room, checking for Paige)
MIKE
I told you, she’s not here
TRU
Paige! I really have to find her
MIKE
All right, I’ve warned you once. I don’t know who you are, or what you think you’re doing, but this is harassment (He picks up the telephone)
TRU
She’s in trouble, Mr Sanders (She takes the handset off Mike and replaces it) You don’t understand…Paige did something tonight
MIKE
What did she do?
TRU
A really stupid and dangerous experiment but now she remembers everything
MIKE
You think this would bring her back to me?
TRU
Her car’s parked out front, you said something about the moon and the stars, that has to mean something
MIKE
Go. Just get out of here!
(Tru shakes her head, turns around and leaves)
35. EXT. Outside Paige’s house. NIGHT.
TRU
That doesn’t make sense
(Her cellphone rings)
Hello?
Cut to: LINDSAY at the bar
Did someone forget her blind date?
Cut to: TRU
Oh, Lindsay, no I didn’t forget I just, I couldn’t make it this time
Cut to: LINDSAY
This time? What, there was a time when you could make it?
Cut to: TRU
I’m sorry
Cut to: LINDSAY
Okay, look, I’ll cover
TRU (voice-over)
You’re the best
LINDSAY
Bye (she hangs up and spots Jeremy near the doorway. He smiles and comes over)
Hi. I’m so sorry, I don’t think my friend’s gonna be able to make it tonight
JEREMY
Oh, oh, you not Tru? Of course not. You’re too good to be Tru
LINDSAY (laughs)
Oh my God, did you just make that up right now? That’s hilarious (she laughs again)
36. EXT. Paige’s house. NIGHT.
(Tru pockets her phone and looks around. She catches sight of the neighbour’s house)
(Camera close-up on Tru, who is looking shocked)
(Camera on the neighbour’s doorway. The window above the door is patterned blue, with a crescent moon and some stars.)
(Camera pans closer up on the image)
TRU
The moon and the stars…It’s the neighbour!
37. INT. Neighbour’s house
NEIGHBOUR (coming down the stairs)
You don’t know what you’re saying
PAIGE (following him)
For the first time in years, I know exactly what I am saying
NEIGHBOUR (backing away)
Paige, Paige, you’ve always been a smart girl, be smart now
PAIGE
I was a child, you son of a bitch. I was 9
NEIGHBOUR
All right, this is ridiculous. I’m calling your father
PAIGE
Good! Call my father. Call the police. Call the district attorney. I’m pressing charges. You are gonna pay for what you did to me
NEIGHBOUR (turning round and grabbing Paige’s wrists)
Just hush. Just be quiet
PAIGE
Don’t touch me!
NEIGHBOUR
Quiet, please!
PAIGE (screams)
Don’t touch me!
NEIGHBOUR (trying to cover Paige’s mouth with his hand)
Sh! Quiet! Sh!
(Paige continues to scream, the neighbour puts his hands around Paige’s throat)
Hush! Quiet! Sh!
(Paige whimpers and gasps for breath)
No-one’s gonna believe you anyway!
(The door opens and slams)
TRU
I’ll believe her
NEIGHBOUR (letting Paige go)
Get out! Get out!
(Paige runs past Tru, out the door, still crying and choking)
There’s a statute of limitations you know, it’s been years. Go ahead, go tell the whole world, who’s gonna believe you?
(Paige turns around to see her father coming up behind her. They embrace tightly)
PAIGE (crying)
Oh God, I’m so sorry Daddy
(Mike Sanders glares at the Neighbour over Paige’s shoulder)
38. EXT. Paige’s neighbourhood. NIGHT.
(Tru and Paige are sitting together)
TRU
So, how you feeling?
PAIGE
I thought remembering would be the end. But it isn’t. Just the first step
TRU
Lot to be said for a good first step
PAIGE
So who are you anyway? And please don’t say Jessica Hansen
TRU
I had to take on her name so I could talk to you. If I told you I was just some med school wanabee who works in a Morgue would you have listened?
PAIGE
Probably not. So why’d you help me?
TRU
Still trying to figure that out for myself. I guess you could say it’s sort of my job
PAIGE
Well if you ever figure it out, you know where to find me. I’d like that. Med school gets a little cold sometimes
TRU
I’ll take your word for it
(They hug)
Good luck
(Paige gets up to go)
PAIGE
Oh, hey, Tru…you’ll make one hell of a doctor someday
TRU
Someday, yeah
39. INT. Morgue. NIGHT.
(Tru is walking to the drawers holding a clipboard in one hand and her cellphone in the other)
LINDSAY (voice-over)
So, how’d the MCATS go?
TRU
They didn’t. How’d my date go?
Cut to: LINDSAY
Not bad. Until he used the same line on the Waitress that he used on me
(Tru laughs)
Honestly, you didn’t miss much
Cut to: TRU
I had a feeling
Cut to: LINDSAY
But still, Tru, I’m telling you the perfect guy is out there somewhere, you just haven’t met him yet
Cut to: Morgue. The elevator opens and Luc steps out
TRU
That, or I’ve met him too many times
Cut to: LINDSAY
Exactly! Wait…how does that work?
Cut to: TRU
See you, Linds.
LUC
Hello again
TRU
Hi. I’m gonna try and get past you here without any hard contact. I don’t wanna break anything
LUC
Yeah I was thinking…about our little accident earlier, maybe it wasn’t such a bad thing. Because otherwise, we never would have met. And I’m glad we did
TRU
Yeah, me too. At least this time you won’t forget me
LUC
I don’t think I could ever forget you
(They both laugh)
Anyway, I gotta go. Um, to be continued?
TRU
Absolutely. Oh, say hi to your folks
(Luc looks confused)
Like I said, lucky guesser
(They both walk away in opposite directions. Tru’s cellphone rings)
Hello?
HARRISON (voice-over)
Tru
TRU
Harrison, please, for the last time, I can’t remember…
Cut to: HARRISON (in the café, with a girl sitting next to him, fussing over him)
No, no, no, listen. I didn’t go to the track today after all. And you know what? I had a great day
Cut to: TRU
Really?
Cut to: HARRISON
Yeah. I had some fun. I read a book. I can’t remember the last time I did that. And plus, you know, other stuff…(he removes the girl’s hand from his shirt front) The point is, I had a great day. And I didn’t need a boost from my big sister to do it this time
Cut to: TRU
Hey, I’m not surprised. You just gotta believe in yourself a little
Cut to: HARRISON
Kinda like you, huh?
Cut to: TRU
Just like me. Goodnight, Harrison
(She hangs up, and takes a slip of paper out of her pocket. Under the light, we can see it reads: Harrison’s Trificta: Cherry Top, Sky Marker, Whirligig)
I knew you didn’t need this
(She screws it up and puts it in the trashcan)
DAVIS (coming in)
Hey, you were right. County Records called. It’s your mom’s file. Whenever you’re ready (he places it down on the side)
(Tru picks it up gingerly)
TRU
Thanks Davis
DAVIS
You gonna open them?
TRU
Later. I was kinda hoping to live in the present for a little bit
DAVIS
Sorry about the MCATS. Guess that means you’ll be sticking around here a little bit longer
TRU
Maybe that’s not such a bad thing. It’s funny, I met a girl today. All she really wanted to do was understand, why she feels the things she does. Maybe that’s all any of us want. Just to understand
DAVIS
And you don’t?
TRU
Not lately, no
(Davis sighs)
DAVIS
It’s not easy, is it? Carrying the burden you do
TRU
Excuse me?
DAVIS
Some would call it a blessing. Others a curse. I see it more as a, uh, a calling
TRU
Davis…
DAVIS
I know more than you think I know, Tru. About what you can do. About how you help the dead get another chance at life. Have a seat, Tru. It’s time I told you what I know
[Fade to Black]
[END CREDITS]