Click Click Boom
Extracted from Scrivener backup: Click Click Boom.bak4
Screenplay
Title Page
\
“CLICK CLICK BOOM”
Story by
Bhavesh Chauhan
Praneet Akilla
Tejesh Guttikonda
Written by
Ranbir Singh
\
Ranbir Singh
+1-416-993-3282
ranbir.singh.live@gmail.com
Book Signing
FADE IN:\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. LIMOUSINE - DAY - TRAVELING\
The magnanimous KISHEN MISTRY, 52, sits wearing sunglasses and wrinkles, in the back of the limo with his ELOCUTIONIST. Traffic is being cooperative today. Neither man speaks and tranquility reigns.
The partition lowers while they are stopped at a red light. The DRIVER dares to let his voice trespass into the sanctum.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DRIVER\
Sorry to disturb you but I’m a big fan of…\
He is interrupted by the elocutionist putting up an open palmed hand.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Mr. Mistry appreciates your admiration of his work. It is because of devotees like yourself that he has attained such Olympian heights. He is eternally humbled and grateful.\
Kishen might have just nodded. It’s hard to tell sometimes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DRIVER\
(perturbed)\
I’m sorry. Are you his partner or something?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
(straight-faced)\
I’m his elocutionist.\
The driver doesn’t have any more words.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Mr. Mistry is currently practising mauna. \
(beat)\
That’s a Hindu vow of silence.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DRIVER\
Once again, sorry to disturb you.\
The driver presses a button and the partition rises once more.
INT. BOOKSTORE/LOBBY - DAY
The elocutionist stands at a podium. A sizable media contingent is set up beneath his gaze. The throng of fans waiting behind them to see Kishen is triple in size though.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Good morning. Namaste. \
(beat)\
Let’s admit it, photographers aren’t supposed to be this famous.\
INT. BOOKSTORE/GREEN ROOM - DAY\
Kishen sips on a blue, tropical mixed drink that matches his shoes. They are the only accent to his otherwise black wardrobe. With his glasses removed, the wear and tear on his face is apparent. He is reclined in the armchair while an aide is mixing him another cocktail in the guest kitchenette. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST (O.C.)\
They spend the majority of their lives behind the camera instead of in front of one, by definition.\
INT. BOOKSTORE/LOBBY - DAY\
Another aide prepares the desk Kishen will sit at to sign autographs. She sets down 5 roughly aligned pens and an industrial sized bottle of hand sanitizer.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Kishen Mistry has balked all the trends ever since his first entry into the business, and reinvented it as a result.\
INT. BOOKSTORE/GREEN ROOM - DAY\
Kishen exchanges his empty glass for the fresh cocktail without so much as a thank you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST (O.C.)\
Many have called this autobiography his victory lap.\
Kishen doesn’t look too victorious, sitting slouched and drunk before mid-day. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST (O.C.)\
We finally get to see a ‘portrait of the artist as a young man’.\
He gets up after taking merely a sip from his new drink. The attendant is at the ready and spritz’s his neck with two healthy doses of cologne.\
INT. BOOKSTORE/LOBBY - DAY\
The elocutionist is nodding in acknowledgement of his own oration.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Kishen’s vow of silence is, in fact, an atonement for events that have come to light since the writing of this book. \
Camera shutters chirp as Kishen enters from a side door and walks to the desk he’ll be sitting at. The elocutionist notices and moves his speech along.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
(hurried)\
Please remember that the statute of limitations on any criminal acts implicating Kishen in the book has definitively expired. Form an orderly line for autographs from Kishen to my left. For a quote from Kishen’s publicist, please line up to my right.\
The crowd parts like the red sea.
SONG: CLICK CLICK BOOM
In the upbeat number, fans and media sing in praise of the almighty Kishen Mistry. Some harp in his achievements and others gossip about his misadventures. It is clear that this man’s public persona is the stuff of legend. The lyrics allude to not many knowing how he got his start.
Vipti’s Party
SONG: CLICK CLICK BOOM (CONT’D)
The singers are the same but the outfits are sharper and the setting is fancier. It’s a rowdy night at a fancy nightclub called “Rishi’s” and the song continues. A younger KISHEN, 20, is weaving through the crowd, taking pictures of party goers , not always in flattering situations. Kishen himself has a much more youthful face, not beat weathered by whatever events are in store for him.
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. “RISHI’S” NIGHTCLUB/DANCE FLOOR - NIGHT
The song is over and Kishen continues being a voyeur, camera in hand. Suddenly, a broad bouncer gets in his way and tugs him off to the side of the dance floor.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. “RISHI’S” NIGHTCLUB/BACK ROOM - NIGHT\
Kishen is shoved through two doubled hinged black doors and into a seedy back room where organized criminals are having their own private party. There are beautiful women sitting in mobsters’ laps. Drugs and guns are sitting on tables in plain sight. All that separates the public from this debauchery are the unlocked swinging doors and two bouncers on guard duty.
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY, 40 and donning a three piece suit, sits with a beautiful woman keeping him company. He is mid-conversation and enjoying himself when the bouncer approaches.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>BOUNVER\
Boss…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
(annoyed)\
What?\
The bouncer pulls a hiding Kishen out from behind him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>BOUNCER\
This is the Mistry kid.\
Mike’s disposition changes. He makes eyes to get the girl to leave and she obeys.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Have a seat.\
It isn’t a request. Kishen is shoved into the chair by the bouncer. He protects his camera from injury by clutching it against his chest. Mike Roy’s gaze diverts towards it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
So you’re a photographer now?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I have been for a while. Should I know you?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
You won’t remember, but I used to bounce you around on my knee when you were young. Your father was still alive then. Him and your uncle used to work for me.\
Kishen looks around the room at all of the debauchery on display.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
My father was a carpenter.\
Mike Roy laughs and then points around them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Half of these guys are carpenters when they file their taxes too.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(indignant)\
He wasn’t a gangster.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
(stern)\
Easy. I didn’t say that.\
He turns to the bouncer, still overlooking the table.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY (CONT’D)\
Did I say that?\
The bouncer shakes his head.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>BOUNCER\
Nope.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Your father knew how to play his role and he benefitted from it. Your uncle… He’s always been more stubborn… And short-sighted. \
(beat)\
Do you like living with your uncle?\
Kishen clutches his camera tighter and shrinks into himself. Mike Roy’s eyes zero in on the camera.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Me and your father did well together, but he had a skill set… that I can see wasn’t genetic. Not the end of the world. I’ve been told you’ve got an entirely different set of skills that would be useful for me. May I?\
Mike Roy gestures for the camera. Kishen reluctantly hands it over. Mike examines it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Have you ever wanted to be a spy?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(awkward)\
Like… James Bond?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
(chuckling)\
More like the KGB… But close enough.\
An uproar can be heard outside the doors, back near the dance floor. Kishen starts fidgeting. Mike Roy places the camera back down. Kishen instantly grabs it and runs off in the direction of the noise.
The bouncer makes to run after him but Mike Roy speaks up first.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
(Hindi)\
Let him go. Weird kid.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. NIGHTCLUB - NIGHT\
Kishen opens the door into the main club section and the volume grows exponentially. More shouts are heard and Kishen traces their origin to the centre of the dance floor.
The crowd of party goers is forming a circle around some action in the middle. As most of them part we are left with a duo of shiny-shirted jocks with a handful of each other’s collar. Each of their spare hands are pulled back into a fist ready to unload. There is plenty of trash talk, although actual words can’t be picked up over the blaring music. All the spectators have their phones out now, ready to capture what’s undoubtedly next.\
SLOW MOTION\
The first punch flies and lands. The flashs off everyone’s phones go off in rough unison.\
SUPERIMPOSE: CLICK CLICK BOOM\
END SLOW MOTION
Kishen snaps his own shots from his actual, professional camera. He shifts his stance, focuses and takes more photos. This is a passion for him.
Bouncers swarm in and starts to break up the action. Kishen doesn’t relent as his flash goes off like a strobe.
A tug on his own collar pulls him away from the situation. He stands at attention to face RISHI, 30. He’s dressed like he owns the place, which he does.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
(over the music)\
They’re looking for you.\
Kishen knows he needs to be somewhere else and gets on his way. Rishi isn’t done and follows close, talking over Kishen’s shoulder so he’s sure to be heard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
You’ve got a job to do. You can’t be running off like this.\
They reach the staircase up to the VIP booths. They’re allowed to go up by the one bouncer who didn’t leave his post for the fight. He knows better. Rishi matchs Kishen’s steps to make sure he’s doesn’t try to escape over the railing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
Sania’s friend paid me a lot to make this happen. I hope they’re not paying you. I’d want my money back.\
In the VIP lounge, a dozen booths are occupied with groups of high rollers partying at various volumes. Kishen aims for the marquee booth, elevated a foot above the rest.
There he sees SANIA, 26, and her friends swaying too and fro with champagne spilling over the brims of their flutes. Sania sees Kishen. She gives him an annoyed look before capitalizing. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
Photo time!\
Kishen takes the cue and raises his camera in time for the girls to let out a collective ‘woo!’ When he’s done he centres his lens on the loudest girl, in the middle of the herd. It’s VIPTI, the one with a plastic tiara on her head. She blows the camera a kiss.
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. LIMOUSINE - NIGHT - TRAVELING\
There’s still music pumping and fun going on all around her, but Vipti doesn’t look so stellar anymore. She gulps back some vomit. Kishen is sitting at the forward end of the limo seating, comfortably away from the gang of girls. He stares at the princess but she’s too drunk to notice.
Vipti half-rises in the moving limo, stumbles towards a window and desperately tries to open it. She sticks her head out and lets loose. The remaining girls vocalize their disgust.
Kishen sits up and slyly points his camera at Vipti from under his arm. His flash is turned off and the shutter is too quiet to pick up over the music.
Vipti is still vomiting, her tiara hanging loose off of her head and lilting in the breeze. An oncoming car honks and a friend reels Vipti back in.
Kishen looks through the camera reel, smiling for the first time. He gets to the shots just taken of Vipti. They are blurry and unrecognizable. His smiles disappears.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. MISTRY MANSION - NIGHT
The limo drops of Kishen and Sania in the expansive roundabout parking lot of the mansion they both call home. Sania stumbles as the limo pulls away. Kishen, with his camera stowed now, puts an arm under hers and helps her to the wooden double doorway. She gets them to pause before they open it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
(slurring)\
Don’t tell my mom and dad I was drunk.\
Kishen nods and slowly creaks open the door (which is way too ridiculous to use as an everyday entrance by the way.) They’re lucky none of the help are awake.
Kishen hoists Sania up the spiral staircase to her room on the upper story. He uses his freer hand to open the door to a chamber fit for a slightly tacky Victorian princess.
Sania slips out of his embrace and walks until she falls face first into her mattress. She ungracefully kicks off her heels and settles in to sleep with her knees still on the carpet.
That works for Kishen. He heads back down the stairs to his own room. It is spartan in comparison, but what he lacks in showpieces he makes up for in clutter.
Kishen lays down to sleep. His alarm clock reads 3:29\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>THE NEXT DAY
Kishen’s alarm clock blares at 6:00.
He slowly opens his eyes and lets out a groan.
Warehouse
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY FLOORING STORE/FRONT END - DAWN\
Kishen walks in through the front door and locks it behind him. He is clad in a navy t-shirt and cargo pants - his warehouse uniform. The front-end store displays are difficult to make out in the reduced lighting. Kishen walks past a cardboard cut-out of an Indian man with both thumbs up and a cheeky grin. The text is some sort of price guarantee.
Kishen walks down the corridor of offices between the showroom and warehouse. The door to the biggest office is ajar and the lights are on. Inside UNCLE MISTRY, 46, is arguing on the phone.
Kishen walks past but not before Uncle Mistry sees a glimpse of navy blue. He puts his desk phone on mute.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
(hushed)\
Kishen! \
(beat)\
Kishen!\
Kishen hears him the first time. He peeks in. Uncle Mistry’s face is the same one adorning the cardboard cut-out outside, except he’s not nearly as cheery at the moment.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
These Chinese suppliers never want to talk according to our time zones.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Disinterested)\
That’s too bad.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Can you make me a pot of coffee before you start?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(beat)\
Sure.\
Uncle Mistry smiles and un-mutes the phone to continue negotiations.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY FLOORING STORE/WAREHOUSE - DAY\
Kishen watches as CD, 22, drives the sole forklift towards him. Her hair is cut short and her oversized jeans are rolled up at the cuffs. She hops out of the forklift before it slows to a complete stop. The move has been finessed over time. She pulls out a clipboard wedged between the read windshield and propane tank and reads off of it. She addresses Kishen with her eyes still down.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
How was the party?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You don’t care.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I don’t care.\
She looks up and laughs. Kishen joins in. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hesitant)\
Do you want to come to…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD \
Please. I see enough of your family while I’m at work.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Laughs)\
Right.\
Kishen rubs the back of his neck and smiles, trying to recover his cool. CD hands him the clipboard. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
All the orders are picked. No trailers are coming in ‘til 10 o’clock.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Wow. Thanks.\
Kishen doesn’t know what to do with himself. CD is already on her way to the change room. She looks back and calls out.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I know you didn’t sleep. I piled up some foam-pads behind the tall stack of laminate for you to lay down.\
They smile at each other before she turns back around.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AFTER 10’CLOCK\
Kishen drives a skid of hardwood tiles out of a docked trailer. He drives over to some racking and aligns himself. He raised the skid 25 feet into the air. He looks up to see it wavering ever so slightly on the end of the forks. His mouth is agape as he concentrates on the controls and slowly inches the forklift forward.
The Offer
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY MANSION/KISHEN’S ROOM - DAY\
Kishen has a similar expression on his face, only now he’s glued to his TV while immersed in a violent video game. His DAADHI JI, 67, is playing alongside him. He’s got his legs crossed on the carpet and she’s sitting on the edge of the bed. Kishen is still in his work clothes while Daadhi Ji wears an all grey Indian suit. A shotgun blast, louder than the rest, emanates from the TV.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Headshot.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
Why did I ever teach you how to play this game?\
He bites his bottom lip as he tries to stand his ground on screen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
So I could teach you some humility. Your grandfather and I owned actual gun, you know?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
I like fake ones better.\
The round ends and they both take a moment to relax their hands. In the idle time Daadhi Ji reaches behind her back and picks up a stack of developed photos off the bed. She combs through them,\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Nothing from Sania’s party yet?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
I have to make all the girls look pretty first.\
Daadhi Ji is unperturbed by the joke. She finds a photo that catches her eye. It is light shining off of obscured glass. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
This one is nice. It looks like jewellery.\
She turns it around so Kishen can see.\
KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
Oh. That was the inside of an empty mayonnaise bottle.\
She gently slaps him in the back of the head. He pretends like it hurts more than it actually does.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
They want you to photograph the wedding.\
Kishen straightens up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
I don’t want to do it Daadhi. Wedding photographers are, like, the lowliest kind of photographers. Worse than paparazzi even.\
She gives him a loving but firm look.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Beta, they need someone they trust and you need experience. There are only so many ways to photograph a mayonnaise jar.\
Kishen turns his attention back to the video game.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LATER - NIGHT\
Kishen is alone now and the lights are dimmed. He is on his desktop computer editing the photos from the night before. One particular photo shows the sweat flying off of a jock’s face at the moment a punch landed. Even in nightclub lighting he made the shot work. Kishen clearly has talent.
His door is open. Sania walks in. He cares enough to flip over to a photo of her and her friends and start fiddling with the colour correction dial.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext> SANIA\
Ew. My nose looks huge. Can you fix it?\
Kishen isolates her nose and enlarges it to 3 times the normal size. She scoffs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m a photographer, not a magician.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
You drive a forklift.\
Kishen flips through other photos of the evening. He gets to one centred on Vipti. Sania laughs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
Keep that one. Vipti looks like a horse.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Wasn’t it her birthday?\
Sania turns to leave.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
After tomorrow things will be about me for a while.\
She stops at the door to make a point.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
Print those out for me before you send them to anyone else.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MANSION FOYER - NIGHT\
Kishen steps out of his room with the party print-outs under his arm. He hears a familiar, obnoxious voice downstairs. It’s Rishi, talking to Uncle Mistry, who catches Kishen peering down. He stops talking and beckons Kishen downstairs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Have you heard of DJ Roundtable?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It’s not my kind of music Uncle.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
Your nephew was slacking off at the party.\
Uncle Mistry registers Rishi’s words, but motions for him to back off for a second.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
OK then. But is he famous?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Yeah, that’s the stuff Sania plays when I can’t sleep on Sunday nights. He’s huge.\
Uncle Mistry slaps his hands and turns to Rishi.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
You were right.\
He shakes hands with Rishi to seal a deal and then turns back to Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
He wants $2000 to play tomorrow night. I had to be sure he wasn’t a nobody.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
(smug)\
I only recommend the best.\
Things catch up in Uncle Mistry’s head.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
So you were slacking off yesterday?\
He looks down at what Kishen is holding. Kishen sees his chance and extends the photos for inspection. Uncle Mistry is instantly impressed.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Excellent. This is why we want you to photograph the entire weeding for us. I have a guy lined up for tomorrow night only so far but I can easily tell him to keep the deposit and take a hike.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It would be a lot to do, along with my job…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Don’t worry about the warehouse. I’ll keep paying you your wage during the wedding. I’ll just get the caterer’s daughter to work overtime. It’s the least I can do.\
It’s getting awfully hard to say no to this man. Kishen doesn’t do well with pressure or confrontation. He throws his hands up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(resigned)\
Sure.\
Uncle Mistry will take a yes, in whatever tone. He has a habit of not knowing when to stop selling though.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Weddings are contagious. If you want to keep taking pictures after this, other people will ask for your services. Believe me. That’s how business works. I installed tiles in one rich white family’s house, and now all of Rosecrest Avenue buys from me.\
A lady yelling into her phone enter’s stage left. It is AUNTIE MISTRY, 44, wearing western evening attire - totally overdressed for home.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(Yelling)\
Do you make a habit of screwing people over?\
Rishi takes his cue.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
I’m going to go. Be well Uncle. I’ll send over the equipment guys at 6ish tomorrow.\
Uncle Mistry shakes his hand, distracted by the wave about to hit him. Rishi gives Kishen a narrow-eyed stare-down before walking out.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(Still yelling)\
Hydrangeas? My only child is getting married. I’m not settling for Hydrangeas. You better show up tomorrow with something better than that, or I’m… Bye.\
She hangs up as a migraine overwhelms her, compelling her to sit down. She rubs her temples in a soothing motion with her eyes closed. Uncle Mistry and Kishen stand, watching her, afraid to move.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
(timid)\
I confirmed the DJ.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(preoccupied)\
That’s nice.\
She’s still in pain.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Kishen will photograph the entire wedding.\
Auntie Mistry opens her eyes into a squint and forces a smile in Kishen’s direction.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(half-heartedly)\
Thank you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
So you can take it easy for a bit.\
The comment ignites her again.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
So you’ve done an hour’s work and you think everything’s fine? Tomorrow’s the welcome party Vivek. We still have the bridal shower and the milni and the mehndi and the ceremonies and the reception. Plus, cocktails every night with the motley crew staying here for the next two weeks… \
Uncle Mistry’s phone rings. He doesn’t hesitate to pick it up, even holding a finger up to get Auntie Mistry to shush.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(Yelling again)\
Tell me again how I can take it easy!\
Uncle walks out of earshot, having another business conversation. Kishen is left wondering how he can slink away unnoticed.
Auntie Mistry spares him and sinks back into her chair. This time she grabs her whole forehead and winces and the sheer voracity of her migraine. She musters the strength to speak again, this time to Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
Can you tell the driver to bring the Jaguar out front?
Shopping Spree
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MALL - DAY\
Kishen sits on a couch messing about on his phone. Shop workers hurriedly walk past him in each direction, each holding an assortment of dresses. They look stressed.
Sania is standing in front of a changing stall. She looks through each dress that is coming her way. When she likes one she says ‘Yes’ and it is hung on a portable rack near her. Otherwise she says ‘No’ and it is taken away. She goes through thirty dresses in under a minute and likes three. Auntie Mistry stands at the portable rack, taking a closer look at the ‘Yes’ dresses. She spots something not to her liking and speaks directly to Sania.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
Cupcake, this one has sequins.\
Sania is dumbstruck and whirls her long-haired head back around to glare at the shop workers.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
I said no sequins!\
A worker takes the dress off the rack and runs off with it like it’s an unpinned grenade.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>A WHILE LATER\
Kishen has nodded off in his seat. Auntie Mistry is standing in front of him and slaps his knee to wake him up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
Beta! It’s time to get to work.\
Kishen rubs his eyes and stands up. Next, he puts on his camera strap, groggy eyed.
On cue, Sania goes in and out of the change room, each time wearing a new dress. She poses without a care for anything else in the world. She is striking in appearance, though full of herself.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
My darling! You’re going to be a star faster than a hillbilly can say Sushmita.\
While Sania is off changing into yet another dress, Rishi struts into the store with a cheeky grin. His smile becomes restrained once he realizes that Auntie Mistry and Kishen are there. He walks right into them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
Oh.. Erm…\
Auntie Mistry looks surprised to see him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
What are you doing here?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
I have something for Sania.\
(beat)\
I mean…\
Auntie Mistry hands the dresses she is holding to Kishen without looking at him. She then holds a hand out towards Rishi.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNITE MISTRY\
Give it here then.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
It’s for her…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
I’m her mother you idiot.\
He hands her the package. She unwraps it. It’s a kid’s toy. Auntie Mistry holds it up by its leg.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
It’s a toy. What is it?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
(embarassed)\
It’s a Posh Princess.\
Sania walks up to them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
I think this dress makes my hips look wide… What are you doing here?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
He brought you a children’s toy.\
Sania gets handed the Posh Princess. She inspects it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
I know you liked those when we went to school and I thought I would get you a wedding present.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
Rishi, we were in second grade. People don’t like the same things when their 23 that they did when they were 6. Di you hit your head on a disco ball?\
Kishen snorts and gets a look from Auntie Mistry. He regains his composure.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
I wanted to wish you well…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
My actual wedding is next week. That’s when people are going to bring me actual gifts. Ask around if you need some pointers.\
A shop worker taps her on the shoulder. She hands the Posh Princess back to her mother and turns away.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
I’ll give this to one of my nieces… Will they know what it is?\
Sania interrupts them. She doesn’t look pleased.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
They’re saying it’s going to take half an hour to pack all the dresses up!\
Auntie Mistry thinks, and then acts as fast as lightning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
You…\
She points at Rishi.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY (CONT’D)\
wait here and take him…\
She points at Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
home with the dresses when they’re ready.\
She turns to Sania.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
That way we can head over to Tiffany’s.\
Sania’s look changes to pure glee. They are out the door without another word. Rishi seats himself down next to Kishen on the couch. There is an awkward silence.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
(spiteful)\
I know you talked with Mike. \
That comes as a shock to Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI (CONT’D)\
I don’t know what about exactly, but you’re in over your head. You better be careful how you move forward now that he thinks you’re worth his time.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(attempting smugness)\
He wants my help.\
Rishi is quick to retort. He is surprisingly more acute and menacing now that they are alone.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
He doesn’t need anything from you. He didn’t get to where he is by needing things from people.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(defensive)\
How do you know so much about him?\
Rishi chuckles and stands up to overlook Kishen, in an attempt at intimidation.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
He’s my boss. My names on the club but he’s the majority owner. He’s not someone you mess around with. If I were a runt like you, I would do what he says. No questions asked.\
Kishen thinks hard about the threat. He decides to scoff at it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I may be a runt but you’re the errand boy who’s going to drive me home.\
Rishi makes to speak again but choses not to. He looks at his watch.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
Actually, if it’s like that, you’re going to walk home.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You can’t…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
I’ve been around your family long enough to know they won’t care much about when or how you get places.\
Kishen is profoundly offended. He grabs his camera and walks hurriedly out the store.
Welcome Party
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY MANSION/FOYER - NIGHT\
The help has done a great job transforming the house. There are butlers, caterers and valets weaving around the initial trickle of guests. Streamers and balloons are hanging from places that would likely require a high-lift to reach.
At the front door, Auntie is at the head of the receiving party. She’s made up, wide-eyed and smiling as she greets everyone with glee. Is she the same person? She throws her arms open to make a big embrace. GURU SETI, 56, come in for a hug. He’s a bald and rotund man, dressed the best out of everyone there. Kishen, standing at the entrance with camera in hand, snaps a pic of them entwined.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(fake)\
The esteemed Guru Seti is here. Would you blush if I told you you’re the guest of honour this evening?\
Everyone near them watches their interaction. Everyone knows who he is. Guru cannot blush on command, so he crinkles his face and gives the slightest bow.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
I’d be heart broken if I cast a bigger shadow than the beautiful bride to be.\
Kishen eyes the man up and down after hearing that comment.
Uncle Mistry slaps Guru on his back. Auntie braces for surely embarrassing words to spill out of his mouth.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
What you have worked on recently?\
He almost has to wipe drool of his chin, the way he’s looking at Guru. Guru doesn’t blink. He’s used to it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
I’ve just done the score for the next hit film by one of the Khans.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
(excited)\
Which Khan?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
(teasing)\
I’m not telling.\
Uncle Mistry gets himself together.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Oh you sneaky devil. Fair is fair. Is there a part for Sania in the movie?\
Auntie Mistry gets in between them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
We’ve got a room for you on the top floor next to ours. That way you won’t have to mingle with anyone you don’t want to. \
She gently grasps an arm and leads him deeper in the party. People are slyly taking pictures of Guru on their phones. Attendants with Guru’s bags follow in tow. Uncle Mistry motions for Kishen to follow them as well. He also makes a clicking camera symbol with his hands, as if Kishen needed more of a hint.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY (CONT’D)\
There’s a few trays of goodies waiting for you there. The numbers to the kitchen, cleaners and valet are next to your phone. Let’s see if we can make this more enjoyable the usual Hilton for you.\
They stop at the bottom of the stairs. Guru holds Auntie’s hand with affection.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU\
Thank you for your hospitality Sushmita. Just a quick shower and I’ll be down to have a drink.\
The guests do their best to appear aloof when Auntie turns her attention back to them. She’s pleased that her golden goose has arrived. She scans the room until her eyes fall on the alcove leading to the kitchen. CD and her dad, MR. PATEL are hurriedly preparing a buffet table for the guests. They are both wearing white cook’s clothes and CD has her pant legs rolled up at the cuffs.
Auntie Mistry walks over purposefully.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
Why hasn’t this been set up already? You two need to be moving around with hor d-oeuvre trays. This isn’t a langar hall.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
We couldn’t get into the space. The DJ took an hour to set up…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MR. PATEL\
(interrupting)\
We’re sorry. We’ll be out with trays in 5 minutes.\
Auntie Mistry snaps her fingers.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(calling out)\
Kishen. Come get photos of the food.\
Kishen shuffles over.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Nobody wants to see photos of food.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
For the money I’ve spent on this, I want to see it long after it’s gone. And smile. You’re bringing the mood down.\
She demonstrates. Her face looks like pulled leather with foundation on.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. MISTRY MANSION - NIGHT\
Curb side, a limousine pulls up. A bespoke suited young man, DANNY SHARMA gets out and heads for the party. He has no retinue, just a small roller bag with him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Danny!\
They both reach in for a 2 handed shake.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Uncle Vivek. Congratulations.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Don’t congratulate me yet. The wedding isn’t until next week. Who knows what could go wrong until then.\
His face is initially grave, then it cracks. They both laugh.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I’ll be on the look out for any trouble.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Good. I’ll be on the look out for your first leading role.\
He brings Danny in for a headlock. Danny doesn’t appreciate it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY MANSION/FOYER - NIGHT\
Kishen’s eyes shift towards the tussle at the doorway.. He manages to get a shot of Danny entering the house mid stride. Kishen is taken aback by how photogenic this guy is.
Danny gravitates towards the buffet table, which is finally almost ready. CD wipes sweat off her forehead.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Better not get any on the food.\
She gives him a look of contempt.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Oh, there’s already plenty in a few pieces. Care to play Russian Roulette?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Meh, I’ve tasted my own blood before. How bad can this stuff be?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I can make you a special batch if you prefer. Won’t take a minute.\
Danny sees he’s made a misstep. He cares to course correct.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
We’ve gotten off on the wrong foot.\
He puts a hand to his chest.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I’m Danny Sharma. I’m going to be the next big Bollywood star. Or so they’ve been telling me for the last two years. And you are?\
CD looks him up and down.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Seems the other foot is just as douchey. CD.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
CD? What CD?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
My name.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Your name is CD.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Yes. Problem?\
Danny shrugs it off and eyes the table again. He points at one specific platter.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What are those called?\
CD looks at the dish and looks at Danny again.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You’re kidding me right? Bollywood boy doesn’t know that Ras Gulai are?\
She seems skeptical. Can you blame her?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I grew up in Hong Kong. Hindi is my third language and Indian food is a taste I’m acquiring. You could say I’m coming home.\
He’s winning her over - ever so slightly. She almost forgets she’s working, until she snaps out of it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
OK, nice to meet you and all that. I have to start handing out mini simosas to the rest of your species.\
She picks up a metal hor d’oeuvre tray and starts piling on the finger food.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Do you mind If I?\
She keeps working, answering without looking.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
If you what?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
If I serve the first tray?\
She stops, incredulous.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Why the hell would you do that?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
It’s a great way to meet people. Here, hide my suitcase back there somewhere. I’ll come back for it.\
He points at his suitcase because taking the fully stocked tray from her hands with a wee bit of force.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You’re not a douche. I’m so sorry. You’re just crazy.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
These people are as bad as you think they are. I just don’t happen to care what they think all that much.\
CD watches as he takes the tray over to the first circle of cocktail drinkers. They are initially taken aback by their server. Then Danny cracks a joke and they all swoon over him. CD tilts her head. She has no idea what to make of this guy.
On the other side of the room, Kishen has been watching the interaction. He’s curious.
He scans further to his right to see Daadhi Ji having a blast at the kids table with him jalebi in her hand. She notices and waves. He waves back.
Sania and Auntie Mistry are behind Kishen’s back.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
What the hell is she wearing?\
They are looking at AUNTIE VANDANA, talking with a relative and walking towards them. She is wearing a blue pink dress with blue accents.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
She looks like a flamingo with a bad rash.\
Auntie Vandana is within earshot now so they fix their faces and pretend to be happy to see her.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Sushmita Paan, how long it’s been.\
She hugs Auntie Mistry.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Congratulations, my dear child.\
She hugs Sania.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
It’s so nice to have you here, all the way from India.\
Kishen snaps a picture of them. The flash draws Auntie Vandana’s gaze. She sees Kishen behind the camera and her face falls. She looks to Auntie Mistry for confirmation.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Is this… Kishen? Vivek’s nephew.\
Auntie Mistry has to shift her face from joyous to sombre and it seems laborious.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
Yes it is.\
Auntie Vandana moves quickly to hug Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Oh, my dear boy. I was so sorry to hear about the accident. It was such a tragedy. I’m ashamed we couldn’t make it for the funeral.\
She’s squeezing him pretty tight.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(constricted)\
It was five years ago. I’m doing pretty OK. I can’t breathe Auntie.\
She lets go and turns to Auntie Mistry.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
You two are saints for taking him in.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
He’s a good boy.\
Auntie Vandana looks back and it finally sinks in that Kishen is the wedding photographer.
There’s an awkward silence.
Kishen sees CD taking off her apron and heading outside through a side corridor. He leaves the circle to follow her. Nobody minds.\
EXT. MISTRY MANSION - NIGHT\
CD sits on a stoop out of sight, smoking a cigarette.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Hey.\
She looks up at the familiar voice.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Sick of it yet?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Honestly, its a change from standing around awkwardly, or sitting at the kids table with Daadhi.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Who’s this new, open minded guy? Wanna do my job too?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
That film star doesn’t seem to mind it.\
CD searches momentarily before realizing who he’s talking about.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
He’s just trying to make tonight into his own personal movie scene. Typical \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(blunt)\
Do you like him?\
CD is taken aback by the bluntness of his question.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Kishen, he’s a douche bag.
They all are. \
(beat)\
Why do I owe you an answer anyway?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Just checking to see if you’re going soft.\
CD scoffs and shakes her head. She takes a drag from here cigarette and blows the smoke out soft and long. Kishen capitalizes on her expression and takes a photo.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Stop that. Bother some people that wanna be bothered. Doesn’t seem to be a shortage of them tonight.\
She takes another drag and looks off. Kishen looks the photo of CD on his preview screen. He stares a little too long.
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY MISTRY MANSION - NIGHT\
At the doorway, MIKE ROY, approaches Uncle Mistry. The latter is hesitant to greet him, his usual smile missing in action.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Hello Mike.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Congratulations Vivek. It’s bittersweet to see Sania all grown up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Thanks Mike. It’s a good day.\
He knows there’s more coming. Mike Roy looks past Vivek and soaks up the glitz and spectacle.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
You’re putting on quite a show Vivek. I bet these people wouldn’t know you were on your hands and knees installing tiles just a couple of years ago.\
Uncle Mistry leans in closer so one can overhear.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Are yo here to insult me? At my daughter’s wedding? Are you gonna stoop that low Mike?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I’m just here for what’s mine.\
He’s intimidating.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Never come to my home again. You’ll get everything back. Soon.\
Mike Roy pulls back from him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I can’t leave without having some jalebi first Vivek. That’d just be rude. \
He slides past Uncle Mistry into the mansion foyer.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
(behind his back)\
Be seeing you Vivek.\
Guru Seti has freshened up and rejoined the gawkers, including Auntie Vandana. Kishen is studying them from midway across the room. He takes a picture. Danny is watching over his shoulder.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That must’ve been a good one.\
Kishen is startled and jumps.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Hey, sorry. Just an admirer of artistes and eccentrics. \
(beat)\
You want some of this?\
Danny holds his serving tray up for Kishen to behold. Kishen collects himself and checks to see he hasn’t dropped any expensive equipment. Responding isn’t a priority.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You’re Kishen.\
It wasn’t a question. That got Kishen’s attention. He squints.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
How…?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You’re uncle mentioned you in passing.\
Kishen doesn’t like surprises, but he recalls the face in front of him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You’re Danny Sharma.\
Danny laughs. Kishen is stone faced.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
OK. You’re turn to dish.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
My uncle made us watch that movie of yours he helped finance. He shows it to everyone who comes over.\
Danny picks up a ladoo from his serving tray.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Isn’t it funny how two people can know each other, but never meet?\
He bites a ladoo and moans to himself.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(mouth half full)\
I mean, people know all about celebrities but not the other way around. I think it’s special when it’s mutual. I’m no scientist but I like to think its magnetism.\
He holds a fresh ladoo up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
These are good, whatever they’re called.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Ladoos. You don’t know what ladoos are?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Amazing right? I’m told I’m a lot stupider than I look. How much does that things weigh?\
Dany points at the camera. Kishen clutches it like his only child.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Two and a half pounds without any attachments.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Would you make me a happy man and let me hold it?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I don’t know.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I’ll be careful. Here, lets make a trade.\
Kishen ends up with the tray of ladoos in the swap. Danny inspects the camera.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You turn this dial to focus right? And here to shoot?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(slightly condescending)\
Yeah, that’s the basic way.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
The basic way will do.\
Danny points the camera at Kishen. He stares at the lens - something he doesn’t do often. Danny takes a photo.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
There. Now you’ll have something to remember tonight with too.\
He hands the camera back over with a million dollar smile. Kishen returns the favour.
Through the crowd, Guru Seti moves into their vicinity (with an entourage). \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Where can I see your photography?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I have a website…\
Danny spots Guru Seti approaching and quickly takes the serving tray back.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Cool give me the link. \
(To Guru)\
Ladoo, Seti Ji?\
Guru recognizes the man holding the sweets.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
(loud)\
This is like the fairy tales I read as a kid - in reverse. A prince turned pauper.\
He takes a ladoo. His groupies follow his lead.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Well I’ve done the pauper to prince thing once in my life already Seti Ji. That was a lot harder.\
Guru soaks in Danny’s handsomeness without shame.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
My boy. I’m sorry you didn’t know me sooner then. I could surely have expedited that process.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
A more sensitive boy would take that as, how do you call it, belittling my success?\
The entourage is clearly bothered by the common tone Danny is using to talk to their idol. Guru is not bothered, but looks interested for the first time.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
Not at all. I’m just stating reality. I can turn anyone into a star.\
Danny wants to play. He gestures at Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Even him?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
A movie star, no. Even I’m not that talented. \
(laughs)\
But I could definitely make him the star of the evening.\
Kishen takes a step back. Guru snaps his finger at some idle attendants.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
Take those light stands and point them both over… There. Like a spotlight.\
He points at someone else.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
You, take this to the DJ.\
He holds out his cellphone.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU\
Get him to play the newest file in my downloads folder.\
Guru rotates so that his voice reaches everyone in the foyer.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
(loud)\
Alright. I need everyone’s help here. Who here knows how to dance?\
Many hands go up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SONG: ANYBODY CAN BE A STAR\
Kishen is mockingly the centre of attention as Guru Seti lends his vocals to explain the steps needed to groom Kishen for a life of fame. Kishen is initially reluctant, before being coaxed into play-acting the part of a famous celebrity.
Award Ceremony
INT. THEATRE - NIGHT
A large crowd applauds. Light music lingers from the previous song. An OLDER KISHEN, 43, is dressed in a tuxedo and seated at the front row of an awards gala. A PRESENTER in a white feather boa clears her throat.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>PRESENTER\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>And the nominees for Photo of the Year are…\
Kishen reaches for the hand of the woman sitting next to him. When she feels his touch she retracts her hand.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>PRESENTER\
Jordan Isiah - Orphan in Eritrea\
Kishen claps. He looks like he’s trying his best to put on a happy face. He zones out as he looks beside him to his date. She looks uncannily like CD, just a few years older. She doesn’t meet his gaze and opts to look straight ahead.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>PRESENTER\
And the winner is…\
Kishen is already rising from his chair. A learned habit.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>PRESENTER (CONT’D)\
Kishen Mistry - Before The Big Game\
Kishen buttons his jacket when he’s fully upright. He turns to waves and walk backwards to the audience on his way up to the podium. The woman he left behind is clapping, but only half-heartedly.
Kishen collects the award from the gorgeous presenter and kisses her cheek. She blushes and steps aside. Kishen waits for everyone to settle before he speaks.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Not everyone gets to live their childhood dream every day. I accomplished my vision before I was technically old enough to drink in America so I consider myself lucky. \
The crowd laughs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
They say the path to success is booby trapped with tought sacrifices, and I’m not one to disagree with that. In fact, some of the things I’ve had to do to get here would be downright scandalous to most of you. I convinced myself it was all worth it in order to be doing things like being at this award show tonight - or at the three successive afterparties later tonight. But, nowadays being famous and successful feels all too very… Ordinary. I’m bored with all this to be honest. It’s not out of any feelings of regret… I wish I could say that.\
A look of contempt flashes from his date’s eyes towards him. He doesn’t appear to notice… Or care.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I felt this way years ago - and I still take photos - and you people still love them. Something’s very wrong, and I can’t figure it out. So before it catches up to me, I’d like to call it quits on my own terms. This will be my last award show. This will be last acceptance speech. This is goodbye.\
The crowd murmurs. The music picks up volume again. It’s got a darker twist to it now.
Kishen eyes his date with smugness. He walks off the stage, leaving her behind.
Cleaning Up
INT. BASEMENT - MORNING
Kishen wakes up in his boxers, on a couch in the movie room. A classic Bollywood movie is playing on the TV. He collects himself. There are empty cups and half eaten plates around him. He doesn’t seem affected by the late night and puts on his pants with a sense of purpose.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. FOYER - MORNING\
Kishen walks upstairs right into a mess. The foyer is littered with used cups and glasses on every flat surface. Confetti is speckled in hard to reach places.
Daadhi Ji holds an open garbage bag, collecting empty cups off of a banister.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
Where did the cleaners go?\
She turns her head to acknowledge him, but keeps at her task.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
They were off shift at midnight. Luckily, I never have that problem.\
Kishen looks concerned.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
Did you sleep?\
He steps forward and clumsily picks up and a cup or two, trying to help.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
I went to bed right after your song. I was dancing along and that took the wind right out of my sails.\
She holds the garbage bag out for Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI (CONT’D)\
Throw that in here.\
He obliges.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(meek)\
I didn’t really want to do all of that.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Well, you were very nice to play along. It almost looked like you were enjoying the spotlight by the end of the song.\
She gives him a sly look. He shies away.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Singing and acting are stupid. Any idiot can do that stuff. Speaking of idiots, where did Sania…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Don’t even begin to talk about your own blood that way. You’ll break my heart.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(contemptuous)\
They’re all so fake.\
She puts the garbage bag down and grabs his shoulders. She’s had enough.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Your Uncle slaved away for years. Your father helped him. In the end we are lucky to live in a house like this, and Sania is lucky to pursue her Bollywood dreams. All little girls dream of acting. Your uncle has made her dreams nearly come true. You have everything you need to succeed right here - all around you. You just need to accept things as they are first.\
Kishen melts in her hands.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(vulnerable)\
I don’t need any of this.\
Daadhi Ji gives him a pitying look and pinches his chin. He flinches.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
That’s odd. I’ve never seen you do your own laundry. And I don’t even think you know how to begin cleaning your room. You enjoy the perks of this life too. Maybe not as much as your cousin, but you should still be grateful.\
Danny enters the foyer from the kitchen wearing pajamas and looking hungover. He’s holding a carton of orange juice. He takes a swig out of it and winks at Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Morning movie-star.\
He bends low and touches Daadhi Ji’s feet to show his respect. She is taken aback and rubs the hair on his head to return the kindness.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(broken English)\
Live a long life, nice boy. \
She points a finger at Kishen and then at Danny.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Friends?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Working on it.\
Danny nods. Daadhi Ji is content and goes back to cleaning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I… I don’t like being fake. Last night was fake. People laughed and enjoyed it because they thought I was kidding myself. I know better. I’m not a fool.\
Kishen bites his lip. He’s not used to taking a stand. Danny digests what he’s just heard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Alright man. You’re cool… normal. I was trying to show you a good time last night, but you didn’t like it. Noted. Still think you’re cool tough. I won’t get you into that kinda thing again.\
He extends a hand. Kishen hesitates, but then shakes it.
Guru Seti comes down the stairs groaning and wearing a fuzzy bathrobe. An attendant follows him with a towel and parasol. They’re heading for the outdoor pool.
The doorbell rings. Kishen looks left and right for an attendant to answer it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(calls over)\
You live here. You can get it too.\
He heads over and opens the door. It’s CD. She’s in civilian clothes for once.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Hey man.\
She walks in past him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I had to leave all the tables here. You people don’t know how to stop enjoying yourselves in a timely fashion.\
She stops when she sees Danny\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Ah sh…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Hey.\
He combs his hair free from any hint of Daadhi Ji’s tousling.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Just here for some things m’lord. Don’t want to end up in a music routine by accident. That seems to happen around here.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(laughs)\
I’ve learned my lesson.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. KITCHEN - DAY\
Danny and Kishen trail her into the kitchen. There are several tables folded up and leaning against a counter.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Your uncle’s asked me to do half the night shifts for the next month. I’m guessing you won’t be around.\
She isn’t pleased. Danny’s wheels are turning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It was his idea. I didn’t really have a choice. I’m sorry.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Wait, so the two coolest people, in this entire circus of a wedding, are friends?\
Kishen quickly jumps in.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
We work together…\
CD has a lifted a table and is holding it under her arm now.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Yeah, we’re friends.\
She smiles at Kishen, who blushes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
OK. Out of my way.\
They shuffle aside with haste as she motors through.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You should let us help you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(behind her back)\
I’m parked out front.\
INT. FOYER - DAY
Kishen and Danny walk out of the kitchen holding a table each. They observe Auntie Vandana come down the stairs, on the lookout. She spots Daadhi Ji, still cleaning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
(Hindi)\
Daadhi Ji. Have you seen Guru Seti?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Who?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
(Embarassed)\
The famous man from last night. He’s… fat.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Oh. He went for the pool. He didn’t look to be in the best of moods though.\
That doesn’t deter her. Vandana trots off in the direction of the pointing finger. She stops mid-stride.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
(To herself)\
I need my bathing suit.\
She rushes back up the stairs. Kishen and Danny continue on outside.
EXT. DRIVEWAY - DAY
CD is crouched in the back of her Dad’s panel van. Kishen and Danny take turns handing her tables.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Two jobs eh? Do you ever have fun?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I’m having fun right now. Does this not exhilarate you?\
She yanks on Danny’s table as he hands it over. He stumbles to regain his balance.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Not really. But listen. I’ve had enough of the cocktail crowd for now. You two are the only reasonable people I’ve come into contact with since I landed at the airport. Care to show me how the peasants hang?\
CD is about to fire back. Danny feigns the pose of a boxer with his fists up and his feet side stepping. That throws her off.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Kidding.\
Danny mimics a few jabs and keeps bobbing on his feet. CD turns to Kishen instead.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Do you wanna hang too? Are you being held hostage? Blink twice for yes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Eagerly)\
Yeah, I mean, if you want to. Hang, I mean.\
He blinks awkwardly.\
INT. FOYER - DAY\
They return for the last of the tables. CD stops Danny before he can pick up the final one.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(Devious)\
Alright. We can hang. But the van only has 2 seats. You’ll have to keep the tables company in the back.\
Danny picks up the table anyway.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
As long as I can help myself to what’s in that tupperware I spotted.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Those are two days old.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
My funeral.\
More and more people walk past them in bathing suits in search of Guru Seti. They leave.
Three Friends
INT. PANEL VAN - TRAVELING
CD is driving while Kishen sits in the passenger seat. The space at Kishen’s feet is cluttered with empty fast food containers and soda cans. He feels right at home amongst the clutter.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I realized we’ve never hung out before.\
Kishen still seems to be shocked they are actually exchanging more than ten words with each other.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You’re always leaving after night shift. Or you’re starting morning shift and tired.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(warm)\
I can still act like a normal human being and have a conversation. Or stay for coffee. \
(beat)\
Anyway, it’s not only on you.\
Kishen shifts his weight and tips a soda can over that still had some liquid in it. He crosses his legs to avoid a foot soaking in the black puddle forming on the spill mat.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Yeah. This is nice. We should do it more often.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
We’ve only driven half a mile in my Dad’s van so far. I wouldn’t be so quick to call it nice…\
(laughs)\
But OK.\
There is a pause as Kishen tries his hardest to come up with some witty banter. The pause goes on for too long and Kishen’s next remark feels forced.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Just try not to let my uncle work you to death.\
Danny’s hand rises from behind and holds a tupperware of stales sweets up between them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (O.C.)\
Hungry?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Comfortable back there?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
For this one movie, I had to wear a fat suit in the Mumbai summer for a week. I’ve handled adversity before.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
What do you even want to do after we drop these tables off?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Did I mention I have a lot of money on me today?\
(beat)\
Anything. What’s really fun and stupid that you would never waste your own cash on? Let’s do that.\
CD thinks, and then smiles. Danny can’t see her expression, but Kishen is weary.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Well?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. CARNIVAL RING - DAY\
The Carnival is buzzing with the ambient noise of screaming kids and whirling coasters. Inside a trampoline enclosure, Danny, Kishen and CD are wearing comical Sumo suits. CD is standing elevated on something resembling a diving board. She is looking down at the other two.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Hold him down!\
Danny is lying down and facing up with mock dread in his eyes. His torso is a ball so he teeters slightly from side to side. Kishen is sitting with his legs overtop of Danny’s inflated arms, keeping him from squirming away.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I’m ready to meet my maker.\
CD jumps and lands right on top of him. Kishen’s legs get crushed too. Cd rolls off of them. She and Danny laugh heartily. Kishen can only muster a smile. He watches them warm up to each other with hesitation.
INT. FAST FOOD RESTAURANT - DAY
CD, Danny and Kishen have been served their food already. It sits half eaten on the crowded table they’re sharing. CD and Danny are laughing at a previously told joke. Kishen has his laptop out. He’s not paying attention to the conversation.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I must’ve lost 10 pounds that week in Mumbai.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Doesn’t look like you’ve gained back any muscle. That explains why I kicked your ass.\
She pinches his bicep. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Hey!\
He flinches. They both laugh again.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What does CD stand for anyway?\
He goes for a swig of soda. CD hesitates.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(under her breath)\
Cakranemi.\
Danny almost chokes on his soda. CD looks at him resentfully.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(chuckling)\
That was worth the…\
Kishen is seemingly finished what he was doing and interrupts.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
CD look at this.\
CD and Danny are startled. They almost forgot he was there. Kishen turns his laptop screen around. It is the photo he took of CD smoking the night before. He has touched it up and made it look amazing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s amazing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
That’s amazing.\
Danny turns to CD.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You smoke?\
CD is still mesmerized by the photo.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I smoke. Got a problem?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(beat)\
Nope.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Kishen, that’s awesome. Do you think you could get me some prints? I’ll pay you for them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Pay him? Isn’t he your friend.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
If your friend’s an artist, you help them out. You buy their art.\
She looks back at Kishen. He couldn’t be happier.\
KISHEN\
That’s kind but I’m not going anywhere.\
Danny furrows his brow.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What kind of a things is that to say buddy?\
Kishen pauses and thinks before he replies. He’s bubbling to the brim, rather unexpectedly.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I feel like I could do all these great things. Then I remember I’m surrounded by a family who just think I’m an inconvenience. Fake people. I don’t think I’ll ever thrive as an artist with them around. Or, me around them.\
He bites his lip. Perhaps he shouldn’t have spoken up. CD looks concerned.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I may rag on about them Kish, but they’re still your family. Your vain, materialistic, obnoxious family. But still…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Forget it.\
There is an awkward silence. Danny is on his phone now, texting someone. CD breaks the silence as she unceremoniously fixes herself to go.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I’m working night shift in 6 hours. Need a nap. Am I dropping you two back?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Kishen, can we hang out here for a while. I’m meeting a producer who’s in town. We can take a cab home.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(resigned)\
Yeah that’s fine.\
CD gets up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Don’t lose that thing. \
CD taps the (now closed) laptop.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD (CONT’D)\
It may be valuable someday.\
Kishen watches her walk away without saying another word to her. Danny catches him staring and Kishen . He quickly opens his laptop again and gets back to work.
Spy For Me
<$ScrKeepWithNext>30 MINUTES LATER - DUSK\
The sun is setting and the restaurant’s clientele is thinning out. Kishen is still buried in his laptop while Danny slouches with a foot up on an empty chair. They’ve ordered coffees to keep up their pretence for hanging around. Danny’s phone chirps and get checks it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
He’s almost here.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(distracted)\
Awesome.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
And I lied.\
That gets Kishen’s attention.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
He’s coming to meet you, not me.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Wait what? I told you I don’t like…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
He’s not my producer. This doesn’t involve anything like yesterday. Well, it does but…\
The door chimes as MIKE ROY walks in. He already knows where the boys are seated and heads over. He’s wearing a nice suit and looks ridiculously conspicuous. Kishen recognizes him immediately.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(under his breath)\
Oh no.\
Mike sits down at the seat across from Kishen, which Danny has just vacated.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I really believe you two have some… common interests. I’ll leave you alone for a few. Don’t worry, I’m right over there, watching your back.\
Danny grasps Kishen’s shoulder and walks away. The gesture doesn’t give Kishen any solace.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
My apologies for the James Bond routine.\
He shoots a sly smile.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY (CONT’D)\
It’s just how people like me have to conduct their affairs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I told you at the club.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
That’s the thing, You didn’t tell me anything at the club. You just ran off. I’ve hurt people for less, but you’re a kid and I knew your father, so I can let a few things slide. A few things.\
Kishen gulps hard and closes his laptop lid. Mike Roy notices the laptop and points at it before he speaks again.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I’ve seen your website. You take great photos. The subject matter isn’t my thing, but you have a - curiosity - that I’m looking for.\
Kishen looks back at Danny, who is watching from afar. Danny waves.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
No real use in being mad at Danny. I’m like a father figure to him. He confides in me. I like to think I foster that trust in people…\
Kishen’s posture is defensive now.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
So this is about my photography? What about it?\
Mike Roy smiles and pauses. It sucks the air out of the room.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I wasn’t finished.\
Kishen doesn’t pester anymore. He’s intimidated.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I have a vested interest in Danny’s success, just like I did your father’s. People who work with me tend to make it far in their pursuits. That’s because I push… To make things turn out the right way. If tragedy hadn’t struck I’m sure your father would be doing quite well for himself by now.\
Mike Roy starts fiddling with the salt and pepper shakers on the table.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Your uncle, on the other hand, owes me a lot of money. Now he’s trying to get his daughter into Bollywood. Talk about forgetting where you cam from. Like I said before, we were all partners for a time. I gave him what he needed to get started. I was at the opening of his first flooring store. It was tiny compared to any one of his stores now. You were still with your parents then.\
Mike Roy positions the salt shaker forward. He then shifts the pepper shaker from side to side. It evokes the movement of chess pieces.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I’m not going to say sorry like everyone else. That’s silly… And fake. Instead, I’m going to give you an opportunity.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You want me to be a spy.\
Mike Roy waits for more.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(beat)\
You want me to take pictures for you.\
His deduction helps his posture inch back into the realm of dignity.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Now you’re catching on! Take pictures Kishen. If you find something you think I’d like - you’re a smart kid. I think you can figure out what I’d like to see - If you find something I’d want, then we can talk about compensation.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
What kind of compensation?\
Mike Roy unclenches the pepper shaker and sits back.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Money. Work. An undying advocate for your art. Someone to gently nug anyone getting in your way… if you know what I mean.\
Kishen has hope in his eyes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Do you want to make your own way in this world? Or do you want to keep standing in the shadow of your fake family?\
The sentiment hits very close to home. It’s almost eery how well honed the message is for Kishen in particular.\
Mike Roy stares at Kishen. Kishen stares back, weighing the scales in his head.
Glamour Shots
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. TAXI - NIGHT - TRAVELLING\
Kishen and Danny are getting driven home. The mood is sombre, suggesting Kishen accepted the offer. Danny grabs him gently by the back of the neck.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Don’t worry. In a little while you feel a lot better.\
Kishen gets a text. It’s from Sania. It reads “I need you. Now.”\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY MANSION/FOYER - NIGHT\
Guru Seti sits at the grand piano that’s usually just a showpiece, while Sania is standing on a set-up elevated stage. She is yodelling her way up the musical note scale, warming her voice. There isn’t much talent on display. Auntie Mistry and Auntie Vandana sit spectating off the side. Auntie Mistry is staring adoringly at Sania while Vandana is staring hungrily at Guru Seti.
Kishen walks in alone and Auntie Mistry notices.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
There you are. Sania needs some glamour shots. We can pin them behind her portraits when we send her portfolio off to the studios.\
Sania hits a bad high note and Kishen makes a face. Guru’s hand slips to an off note on the piano in disgust.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(distracted)\
Yeah. Sure. Glamour shots.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNITE MISTRY\
(To Auntie Vandana)\
She’s so dedicated. Matt’s family is going to get her film distribution in China. With subtitles, but that’s to be expected.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Isn’t is a bit strange to be marrying into a Chinese family.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
Nonsense. She and Matt were made for each other. Besides, China is so hot right now. It’s the right wave to be riding.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Well you certainly have the right talent to help you along the way.\
Auntie Vandana stares at Guru Seti and swoons.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
Behave Vandana. He’s married.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
(sassy)\
I don’t mind that at all.\
On stage, Sania is halfway through a verse and stops singing mid-stanza.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
I think you’re a bit behind on piano.\
Guru Seti stops playing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
You do know I’ve won 3 Panorama awards and that I’ve been nominated for 6 more right?\
Sania misses the flames he’s shooting out of his eyes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
I just feel you aren’t doing my vocals justice.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
You know Sania, I have a thought. Your wedding night should be a night of celebration. I think having you practise every night for 2 hours for the next week isn’t the best use of your time at such a momentous occasion.\
Sania is deterred by Guru’s pessimism. It didn’t take all that much to be honest.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
Maybe you’re right. I should really rest my voice for the film shoot anyway.\
She sees Kishen has arrived.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA (CONT’D)\
Ah! But can you hang tight while I get some photos of us rehearsing?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
(unenthusiastic)\
Sure. I’m here.\
Sania waves Kishen over. He puts his camera strap over his shoulder and takes off the lens cap with a sigh.
With The Uncle
INT. UNCLE MISTRY’S CAR - DAY - TRAVELLING
Uncle Mistry is driving while Kishen is sitting shotgun. A classic Bollywood song plays through the premium speakers. They drive over a pothole and the golden “M” ornament hung on the rearview mirror dances.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Why did I have to come along again? I could have been correcting photos from the welcome party.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
I think you can find the time for that. I need someone with me when I go see this guy. So far he’s only seen me alone. Showing him that I have partners will solidify my image as a serious player. By the way, I’m to introduce you as my nephew and business partner. Can you play along?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Yeah if it’ll make things move along.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Thank you.\
Uncle Mistry turns the volume knob up on the car stereo and begins to sing along. Kishen makes a face.\
INT. CONDO - DAY\
Uncle Mistry and Kishen walk into a luxurious condominium overlooking the city’s skyline. The windows are floor to ceiling, giving the space a very open feeling. MR. OBEROI, 50, is clad in a white business suit walks ahead of them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Mr Oberoi, you have a stunning place.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MR. OBEROI\
It does the trick while I’m in town. Most of my shoots are in Mumbai so this only has to suffice for a grand total of two months of the year. I get by.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
I can think of worse ways to spend two months.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MR. OBEROI\
Indeed. So, your daughter is starring in a picutre.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
She’s well on her way. We’ve got a composer, Chinese financing and distribution. All we need is a director before we start approaching studios.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MR. OBEROI\
So, there’s no studio on board yet? Are you worried?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Why would I be worried? The financial backers are willing to stake a major share of the budget, and I’ve got Guru Seti signed on.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MR. OBEROI\
Guru Seti… I’m impressed. Although his latest work seems, to me at least, a bit derivative.\
Kishen is standing on the sideline in one of Uncle Mistry’s suits. It makes him look like a kid who got into his father’s closet.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
To each his own. Now, we were hoping to get your name signed up to direct this instant hit.\
Mr. Oberoi laughs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MR. OBEROI\
You certainly don’t mince your words. You do realize I’m booked up for the next three years right? That may set the timeline of your picture back a fair bit.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Yeah, yeah. I had to try. Anyway, what I’ll settle for… Is you referring me to one of your understudies. Maybe the one who did the B shots for the last Abhishek flick.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MR. OBEROI\
Even though he’s not me, he’s still not cheap.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
I’ll settle a price with him that’ll make us both happy. Now, with regards to your own happiness, I’m looking around and I think this floor could benefit from some marble tiles. The sun will bounce off them just right. It just so happens I heard a few pallets of marble just fell off a truck and landed in the loading dock downstairs.\
Mr. Oberoi and Uncle Mistry both smile.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. PARKING LOT - DAY\
Uncle Mistry and Kishen are walking back to the family Jaguar. Uncle Mistry is still in high spirits from the sealed deal, yet pauses a few paces from the car. Kishen stops too after noticing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
What do you want to do with your life Kishen?\
Kishen responds without much hesitation.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I wanna take pictures.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
You answered quick. That means you’re sure.\
Kishen nods.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Well, that’s great for the weekends, and when we need it, but it isn’t going to make you any money.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Money isn’t everything…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
You know who says that? People who can never make the kind of money I do and wanna kid themselves into thinking they never wanted it in the first place.\
(beat)\
Let me explain something. Sania is a star. She can act and we’ll make her a good singer in time. But do you know why she’s going to be great, because I have the money to make it happen. I’ve arranged this wedding so she can have a wealthy Chinese husband. They have links in the film industry there. How’s that for a revolution? Merging Bollywood and Chinese cinema? That’s the kind of notion that makes people rich, but its just going to make me even richer. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
So you’re marrying her off for more money?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Please. She’s a Canadian born princess. You think I can make her do anything? I explained the notion to her and she was on board even faster than your Aunt. She gets it. You need to understand what kind of a position you’re in.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It doesn’t feel to good driving a forklift.\
Uncle Mistry is taken aback.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Excuse me if you’re allergic to hard work. You really think you’re going to drive a forklift forever?\
I can’t run this flooring business forever. I’m going to make you manager when this wedding is over. I’ll be too busy with Sania’s film. That’s a raise for you, but it’s also more responsibility. If you prove to me you’re worthy, I’ll see what else I can do for you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Great. More work that isn’t photography.\
Kishen starts to walk but Uncle Mistry grabs his arm.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
You need to understand what’s possible for you. That’s all.\
He holds on to Kishen’s arm a little longer before letting go. They both walk towards the car in silence.
Interview
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. TALK SHOW SET - DAY\
An older Kishen, 32, sits leisurely on a prop filled set. He looks content. The host, TROY, straightens his tie as the show comes back from commercial and the audience claps on cue with the red “APPLAUSE” sign.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>TROY\
Welcome back. We’re talking to Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist Kishen Mistry. Having fun yet?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It beats sleeping in a mosquito net in Burundi.\
The audience laughs. Troy laughs just a little too hard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>TROY\
Time for something mundane. What motivates you to get out of be devery morning?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Hmm… \
He puts a finger to his chin and thinks hard in a mocking fashion.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN (CONT’D)\
that’d have to be coffee Troy.\
Ridiculous laughter again. It doesn’t jostle that face Kishen is making.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Seriously though, I wouldn’t be here without my lovely wife. She’s here today…\
The camera cuts to her seated in the front row, with adoration in her eyes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN (CONT’D)\
And she’s my rock.\
She blows him a kiss. The crowd awes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>TROY\
Well, if that didn’t win you some brownie points, I don’t know what will.\
Hold for laughter.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>TROY (CONT’D)\
Tell us what advice you have for young artists trying to make it today?\
Kishen thinks for real this time, then looks into the camera. His face is sincere.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Kids, if you get an opportunity, a real opportunity, I don’t care if you think it’s intimidating, if you think it’s beneath you. When you get an opportunity, you take it! You can figure out how the hell you’re actually going to go through with it afterwards.\
The crowd laughs again. Kishen stays serious for a moment longer before he finally breaks too.
Pep Talk
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY MANSION/MOVIE ROOM - DAY\
A classic Bollywood film plays on the projector. Danny is watching it on the couch with a mixed drink in hand. Kishen walks in from upstairs, wearing much sharper clothing than he normally does. He looks slightly uncomfortable. When Danny spots him his eyes widen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Now that’s what I’m talking about!\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
People are going to notice something’s different about me.\
He tugs on his shift sleeves to try and get them lower around his wrist.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s the thing: people didn’t notice you at all before. Most are just going to wonder where the hell this cool guy came from. For the rest, we’ll blame it on my nurturing influence. Trust me, this character change is completely believable.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(sarcasm)\
That makes me feel a lot better.\
Danny burps from his drink.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You never saw that. Now, you’re already observant. You’re already stealthy. What you need to learn quickly is how to be cunning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Cunning?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Sounds sexy, doesn’t it? Get people talking about themselves. Compliment them, even at your own expense. People love to talk about themselves, especially those people.\
Danny points up the stairs where faint music can be heard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (CONT’D)\
They’ll let things slip. They call it gossip. Mike calls it intelligence. That makes our whole outfit sounds cooler actually.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
How do I know they’re telling the truth?\
Danny stands up and walks towards Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Everyone has their own take on how things go down. You ask enough people, and you can glue together the scraps to figure out what’s really happening. I’m actually jealous of you. You’ve got the perfect cover to be any place in this mansion, at any time.\
Danny grabs Kishen’s shoulders.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You heard what Mike said. You’re starting out small here. These are just your fake family and their fake friends. As you get better, you’ll be able to infiltrate just about anywhere. You can be as powerful as you want to be.\
Danny straightens Kishen’s tie and brushes off his shoulders.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You’re shirt sleeves are supposed to be that short.
Groom’s Arrival Party
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MANSION FOYER - NIGHT\
The foyer is already full of guests. The party has a mildly offensive Chinese theme, in honour of guests yet to arrive. Kishen is taking photographs of the current guests. Rishi is up at the DJ booth with Turntable. Sania is in conversation with Guru Seti. Auntie Mistry is tucked in the corner, clearly having a quarrel with Uncle Mistry. Kishen spots CD walk in and waves her over. She’s wearing dressy jeans and a blouse, with sneakers to bring things down a notch.
She looks at Kishen’s get-up as she approaches.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
We must’ve both entered the twilight zone.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(inadvertently blunt)\
What are you doing here if you’re not working?\
CD can’t believe it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Uhm… I can have a live too. Danny invited me. I figured since we’re all buddies now so it could be fun. \
(beat)\
Excuse me, all of a sudden I need to smoke.\
She walks away. Kishen thinks about following her, but Danny shows up from the other direction and gets his attention.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You see that lady by the speakers?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(distracted)\
Auntie Vandana. What about her?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (CONT’D)\
She’s obsessed with Guru Seti. \
Kishen gives Danny an annoyed look. He goes back to photographing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
That’s so obvious. Even I noticed that. She almost has to wipe the drool off her chin.\
Danny gets between Kishen and his field of view.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
OK that’s great, but what are you going to do about it? \
Kishen doesn’t have an answer.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Other people are just going to whisper these things. You have to capitalize on it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
And how do I do that?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Keep an eye on them. When one of them sneaks off, take note. When both of them are nowhere in sight, go find them. I’ll bet money that you won’t be disappointed.\
The DJ abruptly stops the music and taps on his mic in an annoying fashion. He now has everyone’s attention. Kishen notices Guru and then Vandana exit the main foyer. He waits a moment and then slips away himself.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DJ TURNTABLE\
(obnoxious)\
Attention 24 hour party people, I’ve just received word that the man of the evening has just arrived outside.\
The guests cheer. CD steps back into the party and files in beside Danny.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
What did I miss?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I think the groom’s here.\
He mockingly pinches his nose after smelling her.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (CONT’D)\
I don’t need to guess where you were.\
She punches his shoulder. He winces.
In a flurry, dancers wearing traditional Chinese attire filter into the foyer and line up along a red carpet stretching from the entrance doors to the dance floor. A Chinese dragon puppet bursts through the doorway and music begins to play. Danny starts tapping his foot.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
This is actually kind of nice. Change of pace.\
He bobs his head and glances at CD for approval. She seems skeptical.
Behind the dragon, a Chinese family walks in. There’s MATT WONG, 27, the groom. In front of him are his MOTHER and father, LEE, 49. They appear slightly shell shocked from the uncanny reception they’re receiving. Suddenly, the song and dance feels all that more offensive.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Oh God. I was wrong. I was so wrong.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(shaking head)\
Everything about this is wrong.\
Lee and his wife reach the centre of the dance floor, where Sania and her parents are waiting with plastered smiles. The music stops.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
(loud)\
On behalf of our large and notable group of family and friends I’d like to invite Matt and his loving family into our home. It’s an honour that this marriage will unite our two families and (hopefully) corporate entities.\
There are a few laughs from friends, but no one is sure if he’s joking or actually being serious. Auntie Mistry nudges her husband aside and takes the reins.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNITE MISTRY\
Sania tells us she has loved Matt from the moment she first laid eyes on him. I’m sure it was the same for our handsome groom.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
I…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
It was the same for Matt, I can assure you. You have raised a beautiful daughter.\
Danny leans in to whisper to CD.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
How did they find each other?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
They didn’t. Their parents did. Now you see how ridiculous this all is?\
Danny thinks hard for a second, scraping his memory. Then, he shrugs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Actually, I’ve been to weirder weddings.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(beat)\
Furries?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You’ve always struck me like the furry type.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Erm…\
The DJ fires up the dance mix once again.
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SONG: A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN\
Sania and Matt sing a cringeworthy but catchy song about their manufactured wedding plans. In the background, Kishen is carefully stalking Guru Seti, Auntie Vandana, and other disreputable folks.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MANSION FOYER - NIGHT\
The song now over, Matt is getting congratulatory pats on the back from the guests. Rishi busts through the crowd and gives him the biggest slap of all. Matt winces.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
Not bad dancing from a Chinese boy!\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
Thanks…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
How long was the flight over? Is it hard speaking English for the first time?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
(in perfect English)\
I went to school at U of C…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
(beat)\
Well listen, you’re really lucky to be with Sania…\
Danny butts in.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Matt! Such an honour. Those were great moves. I must admit you’ve got a natural talent for this. You might put me out of a job.\
Matt, relieved to be free of Rishi, smiles.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
You’re a dancer?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
An actor but in this industry you usually are both. And a singer. And a songwriter if the plot calls for it. Here, let’s have a toast…\
Danny taps Sania on the shoulder, receiving her own congratulations, and takes glasses of champagne from an attendant to pass around. Danny raises his glass to take the lead.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
To Matt and Sania. May two hearts…\
He looks them both in the eyes, one at a time. Vipti is amongst the crowd listening as well. She sways a little, already tipsy.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (CONT’D)\
(emphasized)\
And two worlds unite.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>VIPTI\
(obnoxious)\
Woo!\
They all drink. Danny turns to speak to Sania directly.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Are you nervous? Anyone in your situation would be.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
(forced)\
Are you kidding? This is the best day of my life. Or… The best until tomorrow I mean. And then until the day after that.\
She drinks heavily from her glass.
Rishi is giving Sania a look from across the room. She notices and breaks her gaze only after lingering for a moment. Danny takes note and slips away.\
INT. MISTRY MANSION/READING ROOM - NIGHT\
Kishen, surrounded by bookcases, peers out of the window. On an adjacent balcony, Guru Seti and Auntie Vandana are sharing a private moment. Auntie Vandana leans in to grope Guru Seti. He slides away from her grasp in a gesture that would have been transparently rejection to anyone else. Auntie Vandana, however, doesn’t relent. Kishen snaps away.
The door to the reading room creaks open. Kishen jumps. It’s only Danny though.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(whispering)\
Sorry. Do we have anything yet?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
She’s putting the moves on him but he’s practically a saint. I have it all captured.\
Kishen pulls the window shade closed and starts to pull up the photos for Danny’s approval. Danny is texting someone with his head down.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(disinterested)\
That’s… not really a story.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It may have some promise.\
Danny starts walking back towards the door, head still buried in his phone. He looks up at the most opportune time to see a shadow sneaking up the staircase.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Now this looks promising.\
Kishen stops checking his pictures and comes over to follow Danny’s gaze. The shadow comes into the light to reveal Rishi, stealthily sneaking towards Sania’s open bedroom door. He steps inside and their view is blocked.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s a shame…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY MANSION/UPSTAIRS HALLWAY - NIGHT\
Kishen looks both ways to make sure the hall is empty. He steps out and walks around the landing until he can get a clear view into the room. Rishi and Sania are deep in discussion just past the doorway. There is a sofa in front of Kishen. He ducks down to use it as cover. He lies prone and points the camera out from the side, lens through the railing and pointing square at the secret rendezvous.
Through the lens, Rishi takes a long look out of the door to make sure the coast is clear. Kishen snaps. Rishi turns back, takes Sania in his arms and kisses her. She kisses back. Kishen snaps again. Rishi, in mid-embrace, closes the bedroom door behind him.
Kishen gets off the floor and looks at Danny.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(mouthing the words)\
Oh my god.\
Kishen has a troubled expression. He doesn’t know whether this is quite the victory he wanted.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. MISTRY MANSION - NIGHT\
Kishen is pacing back and forth while CD sits mulling and smoking a cigarette.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(chuckling)\
Just when I thought your family was boring and predictable.\
Kishen keeps pacing, not making eye contact.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
What the hell should I do?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(quizical)\
What were you doing up there anyway?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(deadpan)\
I was spying on Guru Seti.\
CD drops her cigarette in surprise.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(beat)\
And that’s less interesting than the Sania thing because…?\
Kishen stops and makes eye contact with CD.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(sincere)\
I’m caught up in some deep shit. You can’t tell anyone about this. I couldn’t go to my Daadhi with this. You’re the only other person under this roof that I trust.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I’m not telling a soul, but I can’t help you if I don’t know what the endgame is here. Or better yet how the hell this all started?\
Kishen doesn’t respond immediately. It seems like he’s making up his own mind on how to proceed.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
This family is so fake and I finally have a chance to let the whole rotting mansion fall in on itself.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(confused)\
Don’t forget that you live here too.\
(beat)\
And your Daadhi.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m not going to be stupid about it. I… just need more time to get my head straight.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Kishen, don’t be rash. If you just go and show this to people, you’re going to break a lot of hearts. Maybe your Uncle and Aunt know about all of this… As twisted as that sounds. It’s not like this whole affair screams ‘genuine.’ The best thing to do is talk to your cousin. Ask her what’s going on.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(sarcastic)\
And how do you think she’ll react to that? Do you think she’ll be as wise and collected as she usually is.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You just need to be careful. A lot of people - who may be idiots, but aren’t necessarily evil - have something at stake in this wedding.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(angry)\
When did you start caring about all of them? When you started dressing up and getting hit on by a movie star?\
CD gets in Kishen’s face. He’s startled.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(fuming)\
Don’t you ever think you have me figured out. \
Kishen takes a step back, not knowing what else to say.
CD is mad. Before she storms off, she pauses.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Try and think for a minute, before you hurt someone else too.
Family Dinner
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY MANSION/DINING HALL - NIGHT\
A bow-tied waiter carries a metal tray on top of which sits a whole cooked turkey. He brings it to a large diner table where the Mistry and Wong families are seated, already slicing into their appetizers.\
Talk frankly.\
So when will the funding be transferred - the morning after the ceremony. \
The Wongs get to know the Mistrys over dinner. Things aren’t as upbeat when camera’s aren’t watching.
After dinner, Uncle Mistry is drunk\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
(wiping tears)\
I loved your father.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Have I been good to you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Yes you have.
The Turn
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MOVIE ROOM - DAY\
Kishen is looking at printed photos of yesterday’s stakeouts of Guru Seti and Sania. He picks up the DVD case of the old Indian movie that was playing in the previous movie room scene. He places the photos in the case and hides it on the shelf. Another case catches his eye. It’s one of Danny’s B movies with his cheesy grin on it. Kishen picks it up and inserts it into the player.
MONTAGE:
Kishen watches Danny’s movie, studying his mannerisms. He then dresses himself in his fancy clothes and mimics Danny’s charm in his bathroom mirror.
Bachelor Party
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. NIGHTCLUB BATHROOM - NIGHT\
Kishen is tidying himself up for a final time before entering the party outside. He has his camera around his neck now. Danny walks into the bathroom.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
There you are!\
He walks up to Kishen, eyeing the urinals and stalls to make sure they’re alone.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(mimicking Danny)\
Here I am.\
Danny stops short of Kishen, inspecting his altered outfit and mannerisms.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Did you hit your head? Have to talked to Mike Roy yet?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I think there’s more to uncover here. We may be at the short end of a long rope.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What? One step at a time. Give Mike the goodies and we can work or more after that.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Soon enough. The party’s starting soon. They’ll be needing me.\
He pats Danny on his arm and walks past him, out the door. Danny looks utterly confused.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. NIGHTCLUB LOUNGE - NIGHT\
The nightclub is sparsely populated. The VIP section has been closed to the public for this event. A banner above reads “Last Night As A Free Man.”
Matt and Lee are sitting at a booth with some more of the Chinese delegation. Matt is trying to enjoy himself but his entourage is cramping his style. They look out of place. A couple of other booths are sprinkled with people from Sania’s side of the family, trying desperately to make the place lively. Kishen walks up to the main booth.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Say cheese you party animals!\
He takes a picture. Matt is the only one attempting to smile. Danny slides in beside Matt at the table.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
My man, your Dad isn’t supposed to be at your bachelor party.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
He wanted to be here.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(beat)\
That’s weird… But I’ve seen weirder.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
Oh, I’ve heard of those parties too.\
Danny gives him a look. Rishi jogs up the stairs, looking ready to get the party started.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
There he is! The bar is yours. What’ll you have?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
(awkward)\
Do you have any wine coolers?\
Rishi freezes and stares at him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
(beat)\
Have some vodka. It’s good for the nerves.\
Rishi signals and some bottles are brought over.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
To Big Willie. The luckiest man in the room.\
Everyone drinks. Rishi pours Matt a second shot and no one else.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
It’s your last night of freedom. Drink up!\
Matt obliges. Lee cheers his son, unconcerned\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
Woo. This stuff is strong.\
Kishen is watching the scene unfold, when he spots a famous couple, DAN BLANK and LILY DOE sitting together on the ground floor of the club. They’re seated in a smaller VIP section adjacent to the main dance floor. He squints until he recognizes who they are. He has a plan. He gets Danny’s attention, who leaves the booth and comes over.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
There’s Dan Blank. He’s with Lily Doe.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What are they going at this tacky place?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(devious)\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>It’s full of brown people who won’t recognize them.\
Kishen heads down the stairs without another word. Danny is delayed in following him. Kishen walks through the dance floor without regard for anyone around him, his eyes squarely on the couple. Danny tries to keep up, at a distance.
Kishen reaches the booth and sits down across from the couple. He startles them, especially with this camera on the table.
He takes the strap off his shoulder and places the camera facing away from the couple.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Don’t worry it’s off. I’m awfully sorry for interrupting\
(To Lily)\
I’m a big fan of his. When the rumours came out that you two were together I was ecstatic.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LILY\
(standoffish)\
We’re just trying to have enjoy ourselves.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
And you picked Rishi’s. Not your usual fan base hanging around here. Good choice. But you guys give your fame too little credit.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAN\
If you’re a paparazzo, why don’t you just take a pic and move on.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Forgive me. I’m new at this. I thought ‘I could take their pic, blow their cover, and they’ll have to scurry out of here in sunglasses like they have to everywhere else. Or, I could convince them to give each other a nice kiss, frame a nice shot, and give them a chance to come out to Hollywood in a respectable manner.’ How does that sound?\
The couple pause for a moment. Then, Dan leans in and gives Lily a soulful kiss on the lips. Kishen takes his cue and gets the shot.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’ll do the photo justice. Enjoy your evening.\
Kishen gets up and walks back towards the bachelor party, right past Danny who’s frozen in surprise. He snaps out of it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(To Kishen’s back)\
Dude, how in the world did you pull that off?\
Kishen smiles to himself as they climb the stairs. At the top, Rishi is searching for Kishen with two nearly empty bottles of vodka in each hand.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
(To Kishen)\
There you are.\
(To Matt)\
Alright Big Willie. We’ve got a great surprise in store for you.\
Dancers come out to a gawdy soundtrack and surround Matt. He looks uncomfortable with all the groping. Rishi claps at the show and then beckons to Kishen\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
Make sure you get all of this! He’s too drunk to remember a thing otherwise!\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SONG: THE ITEM SONG\
Dancers do their things while Matt drunkenly ogles them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. NIGHTCLUB LOUNGE - NIGHT\
As the song is wrapping up, Kishen watches Lee slink away from the party. With everyone still enthralled in the show and dance, Kishen follows him. Lee takes the stairs down and slides past a bouncer into a back room that Kishen is familiar with.
Kishen wants to know more so he makes a hasty call. He waits for a minute, then walks up to the doorman.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m Kishen. Here to see Mike Roy. He’ll know what for.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DOORMAN\
He’s busy.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
This is an urgent matter.\
(taps camera)\
I don’t want to be there when he finds out you let an exclusive go stale.\
The doorman gives in. He opens the way to the backroom but grabs Kishen by the collar as they go inside.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DOORMAN\
Stay with me until I say so.\
Kishen does’t object. They walk past a watered down gang of hustlers. It must be a slow night because half the club is bought out. Mike Roy is sitting at his usual booth. Lee is sitting across from him and they are in a heated exchange.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
(muffled)\
Who the hell…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
(muffled)\
You’ll regret this…\
Kishen snaps a silent shot of the two conversing just in time. Lee gets up and storms off back the way he came. On his way out he notices Kishen tucked in behind the bouncer. He stares long and wonders how the hell this scrawny kid is involved with these goons.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DOORMAN\
Your turn.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Er…\
Kishen is pushed into the seat across from Mike Roy, who is still fuming from the previous conversation.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Kid. This better be good.\
Kishen hadn’t thought this all the way through.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Er… I have the first photos of Dan Blank and Jill Doe kissing in public. Here take a look.\
It’s not what mike was expecting but he can’t deny it’s a juicy scoop.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
These are great. Good work.\
(To the doorman)\
Get the kid something Frank.\
The doorman, Frank, leaves them unsupervised.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
You’re a natural at this. Not to state the obvious, but time is against us with this wedding business. I need you to deliver on that piece for me if this arrangement is going to have any… Longevity.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m still working on it. I needed to do something removed from me to get started. It’ll be easy to get what you need now.\
Frank is back. He drops a fat stack of money on the table, next to Kishen’s camera.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I hope so. There’s much more where that came from.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. NIGHTCLUB - NIGHT\
Kishen leaves the backroom, patting the cash tucked into his camera bag. Up above, Danny watches from the railing with suspicion in his eyes.
What’s up With Kish?
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. FLOORING STORE - DAY\
Danny walks in the front door to see CD stacking up a display of hardwood tiles. It’s still early in the morning so customers are sparse.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
So this is where you’ve been hiding out.\
CD is initially surprised to see Danny, but then goes back to being ticked off as she continues stacking tiles.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Some of us still have to work an honest living in between all the partying.\
Danny reaches down to pick up a tile.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Let me help. Where does this go?\
She takes the tile from his hands and stocks it herself.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Wouldn’t want you to hurt herself. I’ll work. You can talk.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Fair. Kishen. What’s up with him? You’re the closest thing to a friend he has, as far as I can figure out. Has he always been so…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Alien?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(beat)\
Very apt analysis.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
He’s been through some shit. I try not to judge him too harshly. Well, I tried to.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Is that why you weren’t at the bachelor party?\
CD stops working while crouched and looks up at Danny.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I wasn’t at the bachelor party because of gender norms, and their gross. I won’t be at any further parties because of Kishen. He’s turned into an asshole, and at the worst possible time, for his sake.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What does that mean?\
CD takes the now empty skid of tiles and starts wheeling it back towards the warehouse. Danny starts following her.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Are you still hanging out with him?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
More than ever.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(sigh)\
Then maybe you can keep him from ruining people’s lives.\
CD reaches the door marked ‘Employees Only’ and hesitates. Danny shoots her some Oscar worthy sincerity.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
He took some photos.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s nothing new.\
Danny can’t resist.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
He took some photos of a family member in a compromising position. And now he’s actually considering exploiting it to hurt them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s not cool. At all.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
See that’s the first thing. But moreso, he lives with them. Talk about throwing shit into a running fan.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
And you tried to talk him out of it?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I told him to go to Sania with the photos.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Sania… What did Kishen say?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
We’re not speaking anymore. Can you guess?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I can. I’ll try to get a bug in his ear. Maybe my beguiling approach will be more effective.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Were you born this delusional?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Never mind Kishen. You’re coming to the next party, as my guest. I need someone to keep me humble.\
Danny smiles. CD smiles back.
Getting Mugged
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MONTAGE: STALKING LEE\
Kishen uses some of his newly earned money to get a rental car. He also buys a telescopic lens from a high end photography store.
Early in the morning, Kishen drives the rental car out to the hotel that Matt’s side of the family is staying at. He waits for a few hours until Lee emerges from the hotel and enters a hired car. Kishen follows Lee on his errands. He sees him visit many condominium build sites and shake hands with developers.
Kishen returns the rental car and hops on a bus home.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. KISHEN’S SUBURB - DUSK\
Kishen gets off the bus down the street from his home. Unbeknownst to him, a car has been waiting. Kishen starts walking towards the mansion, carrying a heavy backpack holding his camera and laptop.
The car drives up beside him and two goons jump out. Before Kishen knows it he receives a blow to the back of the head from one goon while the other one grabs him backpack. They jump back in the car as Kishen stumbles to the sidewalk from the blow. The car whirs off.
Village
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. INDIAN VILLAGE - NIGHT\
Another car whirs off as Kishen is dropped off in the middle of Nowheresville, India. An older Kishen, 30, is left standing wide-eyed in the wake of dust. A hand goes up in the surrounding bustle of people and he is relieved. KARTIK, 37 approaches. He extends a hand to Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KARTIK\
Kartik. You must be the photographer. \
Kishen takes off his camera pack and hands it to KartikMatt. They leave the crowd.
INT. COUNTRY HOME - NIGHT
Kishen is shown into a modest but satisfactory room in Kartik’s abode.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KARTIK\
Settle in. My wife is making dinner. You’ll eat with us tonight. The TV picks up American channels.\
Kishen drops his backpack to the floor and sits on the cot. He looks relieved by his relative comfort.
INT. DINING ROOM - NIGHT
Kishen, Kartik, Kartik’s wife, 32, and son, 9, are eating dinner.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You have a lovely home.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KARTIK\
It’s all due to showing our country to photographers, journalists, explorers. Just like yourself.\
He smiles and Kishen returns in kind.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
When will we go to the Badlands?\
Kartik’s wife stops chewing and looks troubled. Wesley springs to interject.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KARTIK\
The badlands are 20 miles due west of here and are a very bad place to go shooting photographs. If you want to visit the Maoists,= I’ll take you to some smugglers who can be trusted. You should buy a flak jacket and provisions beforehand. It’s not an easy task.\
Kishen looks taken aback. Then he settles back in to eating dinner, looking resigned but content.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
We can talk about it tomorrow.\
EXT. COUNTRY HOME - DAY
The sun is beating down. Kartik’s son plays in the front yard while wets his head from a garden hose. Kishen takes out a photo of his girlfriend and eyes it affectionately. He then puts it away when he notices Wesley isn’t around. He approaches the boy to test his new plan.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Are there poor people in this village?\
The boy nods.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Here’s an American dollar. Take me to see them.\
EXT. VILLAGE SLUM - DAY
The conditions of the village poor are very destitute, but they aren’t in any immediate physical danger. They all eye the foreigner being led into the slum by the richer kid. Kishen takes a look around, seeing possibilities.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(to the boy)\
Tell them I’ll give them each a dollar to let me take some photographs here. They shouldn’t wear their shoes if they have any, and the children should be in the photos.
Daadhi’s Slap
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. KISHEN’S ROOM - NIGHT\
Kishen takes an ice pack from Daadhi and places it on the back of his head. He’s in moderate pain, sitting on his bedside while Daadhi hovers over him worried. She looks like she just woke up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
What happened?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
I’ve been very busy the last few days.\
Kishen seems to be in a dark place. Daadhi Ji senses it. She caresses his hair.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
You know there’s nothing to can’t tell me about beta.\
Kishen pauses for a moment. He feels like a kid again.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I took some photos… By accident.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Photos of what?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Photos that… If they were to get out… Would be very bad for the family. Very embarrassing.\
Daadhi Ji pulls away.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
And you didn’t delete them?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I thought about it. I wasn’t sure.\
Daadhi Ji smacks Kishen across the face. Tears are welling in his eyes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Now someone stole them. They took my camera, laptop, everything. Someone has them and may show them to everyone.\
Daadhi Ji grabs her forehead and shakes her head.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
I don’t know when I lost you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It’s not your fault Daadhi Ji. It’s all me and that’s OK.\
Daadhi Ji grabs Kishen by the shoulders.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
You have to figure out a way to get those photos back.\
Kishen doesn’t respond. She shakes him hard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Do you hear me?\
Kishen still doesn’t respond but his eyes betray him. He is far away now.
It Was Mike
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MOVIE ROOM - DAY\
Danny is sitting, watching a newer release and stuffing his face full of popcorn. A joke is made and he laughed obnoxiously. Kishen walks in, exasperated.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I should have known you were in here.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I can’t thank you enough for showing me this place. It’s a good brake from the weirdos.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I was robbed last night. Right down the street. They took my camera and all the photos.\
Danny sits up and puts the popcorn down.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Holy smokes. Are you OK? I still count four limbs at least.
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
We need to go see Mike. I don’t have the photos anymore. I can’t give him what he wants. We have to find out who took my camera…\
Danny is settling down as Kishen speaks. His look of manufactured melts back to leave a colder appearance.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(cold)\
It was probably Mike who sent those goons, you know.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(startled)\
What?\
Danny gets up and walks towards Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s what happens when you drag your feet. I saw you leave the backroom at the party. Then I spoke with Mike after. He didn’t seem to pleased with you. You don’t dick around with organized criminals Kishen.\
Kishen takes a step back and eyes the DVD shelf.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
How did he know that I even had the photos he wanted?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(bemused)\
How do you think? I told him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(incredulous)\
You told him?\
Danny takes another step towards Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I thought you were smart. Why the hell wouldn’t I? I introduced you two. I work for him. You had something he wanted.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Friendship, maybe?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You don’t have any friends Kishen. Don’t sweat it - neither do I. We’re just not those kinds of people. I’m sorry you only realizing this now, and under these circumstances, but the sooner you wise up, the better you’ll do in this business.\
Kishen shoves Danny and runs up the stairs. He gets to the top and heads to the entrance. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. MISTRY MANSION - DAY\
Outside, he is looking through his phone contacts for someone, anyone to call, but draws a blank.
A short black limo pulls up along the giant curved driveway. The passenger side window rolls down and Kishen is left facing a stern looking Chinese man.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CHINESE MAN\
You need to come with us.
Deal With Lee
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. LEE’S HOTEL ROOM - DAY\
The room is like something you might imagine to be the inside of a suite at the Shangri-La. Kishen is sitting across from Lee at an in-suite tea table. They are being served freshly brewed tea. Lee has a fake smile on for the server’s sake.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
It’s nice to be reminded of home when away.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(mutters)\
I was at home until your car came by…\
The server leaves and Lee gets serious.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
What relationship would a wedding photographer have with an organized criminal?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Mike needs photographers too, just not for weddings.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
So you would say you are associates?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
No, fuck that guy. He just robbed me for all of my equipment and conned me out of a payday.\
Lee laughs and then regains his composure.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
That’s not what I was expecting to hear. So it seems we have a newly forged common enemy. And we’re about to be related too. Isn’t that just the best coincidence?\
Kishen isn’t fazed by the camaraderie.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You know this honestly this works both ways future uncle. What’s your angle with Mike? And with every condominium going up in town.\
Lee raises an eyebrow but that’s all Kishen is getting for dropping that bomb.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
You know a lot for a photographer. I’m in the business of buying property. We have a lot of money in China, but China is a place where a lot of money can turn into no money really quickly if you piss off the wrong people.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
So you’re buying assets here to bring it over. And once Matt is married to a Canadian, your family’s money will become Canadian money.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
(sarcastic)\
You’ve cracked the case.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Not quite. I don’t know what you’re after from Mike Roy. He doesn’t own any condo buildings last I checked.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
He’s got the majority stake in Rishi’s nightclub. It’s a slimy spot taking up a potentially prime
condo site.\
Kishen thinks long and hard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’ve read about something.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
… Which is?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
In order to raise government funds, properties that are impounded by the police are often put up for auction here, going to the highest bidder.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
(scoffs)\
I know all about that.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I assumed you did. Properties can impounded due to defaulted mortgages, bankruptcies, or criminal offences. Criminal offences like… Guns and cocaine lying in plain sight in the backroom of a nightclub.\
Lee’s eyes light up. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
An anonymous tip could go a long way.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
That’s quite the tip nephew. If that pans out you’ll be rewarded…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Nonsense. We’re going to be family. Besides, there’s someone who needs to go down with them though. For your nephew’s sake.\
Lee is throughly impressed with this kid’s politicking.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
And who may that be?\
Kishen smiles deviously.
Getting The News
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MONTAGE: GETTING THE NEWS\
Uncle Mistry is sitting in the mansion foyer and the phone rings. We see that it is Mike Roy on the other end of the line, with Danny sitting across from his in support. Uncle Mistry’s expression changes from hesitant to shocked to angry to vengeful as he gets the news of Sania’s infidelity and the blackmail that currently hangs over him.
Meanwhile, Kishen scrambles into the house and down to the movie room. Danny has left long ago. to retrieve the classic movie DVD case. Inside he finds the photos of Sania and Rishi, as well as those of Guru Seti and Auntie Vandana. He takes a tally of his loot and runs off.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. MISTRY MANSION - POOLSIDE - DAY\
Guru Seti sits up in a beach chair, looking like his mid-day dip has been utterly ruined. Kishen stand above him, wearing sunglasses.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
You’re a baseless scroundrel!\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You Indians really do have a British flare for insults.\
Guru sinks once he realizes he isn’t as intimidating as he hoped.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
I’m a family man. That woman is insatiable. Your uncle paid me a lot of money to be here. This wasn’t worth it.\
Guru wipes away tears. Kishen’s patience is tested.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Calm down. This game we’re playing here is called blackmail. The next move is for you to ask what I want, then I tell you an alternative that keeps your secret safe.\
That suggestion bring Guru back to life again.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
Please! I’ll do anything you ask. What do you want me to do? Anything but kiss that woman.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Ew. No. I want you to do what you do best. You’re putting together a song and dance for the wedding reception right? I have a few lyric suggestions.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
That’s all? I’ll get to work right away. \
Guru gets up and excess water slips off his thighs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Oh, and let me borrow one of those good cameras you’ve got.\
Kishen walks back into the house.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MANSION FOYER - DAY\
Kishen walks in to see his Uncle sitting, dejected. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Sorry I kept you waiting.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
(resigned)\
It’s OK.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
What’s the matter?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
I got a call this morning from a ghost from my past. He says he has photos of Sania being unfaithful to Matt. I told him I didn’t believe him. Then my mother tells me what you told her. So it’s true. You worked with that man to bring this family down.\
(beat)\
Why?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’ve always been an inconvenience for you people.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
I worked hard my whole life to build this house and get your aunt and sister away from a life of wanting for things. I had to make deals with people like Mike to get an edge. I should have known that I could never shake filth like him off my leg that easy.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
He’s going to release the photos tomorrow morning, before the ceremony. Lee is giving me a nice gift once the wedding is a done deal. That was supposed to square my debt with Mike. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Sania’s never had to work a day in her life. I’ve done nothing but sweat and keep my head down. Now you wanna kid me and tell me I’m the same as the rest of the family?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
I know what my daughter is capable of. And I know what you’re capable of. That’s why I pushed you. Or, I thought I knew you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
My god. We have the pre-wedding party tonight. Guru has prepared a show. A hundred people are coming. It’s going to be such a twisted comedy.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m working on something. Sania will be embarrassed and the wedding will be ruined. There’s nothing I can do to change that. But if you play it cool for a little while longer, I’ll make sure it isn’t all for nothing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Beta…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m not your beta.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Kishen. My life’s about to fall apart. What do you want me to do?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Do what you always do. Act like nothing’s wrong.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
(angry)\
I want you out of this house!\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(walking away)\
I packed my bags this morning.\
Kishen walks away victorious with Uncle Mistry sits slouched as a broken man.
Pre-Wedding Party
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. WEDDING HALL - NIGHT\
Guests are filing in to what is sure to be the wedding of the summer. Uncle Mistry is greeting the newcomers like nothing has changed. If you look closely though, he lacks the same spark of enthusiasm as before. Inside Sania sits are in a throne chair with an empty one for Matt beside her.
Kishen has a photo booth set up with some props on the side for arriving guests to get some candid shots. Instead of himself personally taking the photos, he’s hired some assistant photographers and is merely supervising. They are currently photographing a bunch of Sania’s fiends, including Vipti, as they try on different funny glasses and hats. He looks disinterested and constantly checks his watch.
CD walks into the party, presenting Auntie Mistry with a gift and a gracious smile. She sees Kishen by the photo booth, but deliberately diverts her gaze and continues into the hall.
Next up at the photo booth at Rishi and the DJ, posing tough. Once Rishi is done, he comes alongside Kishen to have a one on one.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
(smug)\
Once we’re done with this, I need your help planning me and your cousin’s wedding. The real wedding.\
Kishen appears unfazed by the barb.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Yeah. I mean, if she’ll have you. And my rates going up. Way up. Here, take a card.\
Kishen hands Rishi a newly minted business card. Rishi is confused as to how his attempt at dominance played out. Kishen has left his presence now and is making his way to CD, standing in line for the buffet.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Hey stranger.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD \
Kishen.\
(looking down)\
Where’s your camera?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I won’t need it until later. Can I talk to you outside for a minute?\
EXT. WEDDING HALL - NIGHT
Kishen and CD find a corner outside similar to their usual one outside the mansion, only this one is unfortunately smack dab beside a full dumpster.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Not gonna light one up?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Danny’s convinced me to try going cold turkey.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(scoffs)\
Danny. It’s so easy to want to believe him, isn’t it?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
He can be genuine when he wants to be.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Danny isn’t anywhere close to what you think he is.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Danny convinced me to do it. He introduced me to the right people. He taught me how to act. How to dress. He practically took the shots for me.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I can’t believe it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Oh believe it. But don’t worry. After the next few minutes, the roof will be blown in this place. We can get out of here now if you don’t want to see it happen. I’ve hired a couple of assistants to take care of the pictures if need be.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You must be out of your fucking mind if you think I’m leaving this party with you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You’re not any better than he is. In fact, at least that piece of shit isn’t trying to pawn off his sins on someone else.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD \
I hope you sit down on a barbed wire dildo.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. WEDDING HALL - NIGHT\
Sania walks by Kishen and pauses for a second. She turns around and amkes sure it’s him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
(sincere)\
Looking good Kish. You’re clothes are nicer. Your hair is nicer. It appears you discover what a shower is. What’s your deal?\
Kishen is utterly startled that she noticed.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
… It’s yoga.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
Well whatever it is, keep it up. You finally don’t look like a Vampire anymore.\
Auntie Vandana approaches Guru Seti as he is preparing to present his showcase.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
I just wanted…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
For God’s sake, let me alone woman!\
She is left speechless and sulks away. Guru Seti looks to be in a moment of catharsis. He smiles and it looks like all his inhibitions have left him.
Guru scans the crowd to see where everyone is seated. Sania is amongst her girlfiends at the largest table. Uncle Mistry sits at the table next to them, rubbing his head while his wife is inquiring as to why.
Lee is over at the bar with his son and other Chinese guests, getting plastered.
Mike Roy has decided to show up anyway, and sits with some goons surrounding him.
DJ Turntable cuts the mix and signals for a spotlight to trace it’s way over to Guru’s position. The hall murmurs into silence.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
(nervous)\
Without further adieu, the song of the evening.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SONG: THINGS AREN’T WHAT THEY SEEM\
A comedic retelling of events so far, along with revelations. The song details Sania’s affair. When that bomb drops, the reactions echo through the room.
Sania screams and puts both hands over her mouth. Next to her, Vipti drops her double fisted wine glasses to the floor. By the bar, Matt grabs the whiskey bootle from the bartender and starts chugging from it. Lee looks absolutely floored, and then his eyes seek out Kishen in the crowd for an explanation. Kishen shrugs in his direction.
The song continues and the criminal underpinnings of the whole affair are detailed. Meanwhile, in the parking lot, cop cars are pulling in, almost as if part of the choreography.
The cops start filtering into the hall and pandemonium bubbles up. DJ Turntable at first is at a loss, but then shrugs and changes up the music to something akin to an anti-police hip-hop song.
When the cops bust the hall, Mike Roy’s goons get into a scuffle with them. Once pepper spray is used, the resistance dies down. Mike Roy himself simply complies.
Lee is next to get handcuffed while he says something in Chinese to his son. Matt starts blubbering with tears.
The cops slap cuffs on Danny next. CD walks up to him and looks him dead in he eyes with rage.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Not my proudest moment.\
CD slaps him across the face. Danny looks at the cops incredulously.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Isn’t that assault? Where are her cuffs?\
Guru Seti packs his bag hurriedly in an attempt to leave before he gets caught up in the carnage. The stage is empty of singers and dancers now. Only Kishen remains, firmly in the spotlight. He takes out his camera to get some shots of the arrests. The spotlight casts glare onto his lens, so he side steps into the darkness and keeps shooting.
One Phone Call
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. LUXURY CAR - NIGHT\
Kishen sits inside a fancy new rental car in fancy new clothes. He has a tablet in his hands and is reading through a tabloid article. The headline reads “Bollywood Wedding Ruined in Musical Expose.”
A car pulls up on the curb opposite him. He puts down the tablet and picks up his camera. A drunken couple stumble out. The man puts his arm around the woman and helps her up the steps to the front door of a townhouse. Kishen snaps pics along the way until he gets a clear one of their faces in the porch light.
He puts the camera down and his phone starts ringing. The caller ID reads “Metro Police.” He furrows his brow and answers the phone.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(professional)\
Kishen Mistry.\
There is heavy breathing and other noise on the other end of the line.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Hello?\
Kishen’s new watch glints off of the dashboard lights.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (O.C.)\
They only give you one phone call in here. Just like in the movies. I didn’t have anyone else to call. Isn’t that sad?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Oh, Danny? Danny Sharma? How’s it going pal? I was shocked when I heard about the arrest. Tell me what they’re saying isn’t true.\
Kishen’s tone is concerned but his face obviously betrays him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (O.C.)\
I underestimated you. That’s my fault. I shouldn’t have kept you in the dark as much as I did.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m sorry. I don’t have the faintest idea what you’re talking about.\
Kishen checks his rearview mirror. No one is there. He turns on the car.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (O.C.)\
Listen, I know you. I knew the type of person you were before me met. That’s because I’m the same in a way. You’re not the type of person to have a real friend. Neither am I. But I taught you how to play this game. This game that’s going to treat you very well if you play it right. Didn’t that count for anything?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Oh, it’s a game we’re talking about? I must’ve just played it better than you then. I guess. Goodbye.\
Kishen hangs up. He’s done a good job of becoming who he has, but this revenge was personal to a point that his suaveness peels back to reveal the ill equipped child underneath.
Art Opening
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. ART GALLERY - DAY\
A frame sits covered in a tarp on an aisle inside the main show space of a prime art gallery. A cocktail crowd surrounds the aisle in anticipation. The curator takes a slip of the tarp in his hand. The crowd starts counting down.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CROWD\
Three! Two! One!\
The tarp is pulled back to reveal a photo. It is the photo Kishen took of CD smoking a cigarette on the stoop outside the mansion. An older Kishen, 22, steps into frame, clapping in time with the crowd. The curator shakes his hand and they pose of a picture. The camera flashes.
LATER THAT NIGHT
Kishen moves from group to group talking with the guests at his opening night. A one point he grabs a tray of hor d’ouevres from a waiter and hands them out. This brings about much amusement in the crowd.
He sees a girl looking remarkably like CD admiring the photograph. He stops in his tracks, suddenly serious. He walks closer until he realizes the girl is not CD, but someone who looks uncannily like her. Turns out her style has become mainstream since Kishen popularized it.
He pauses outside the perimeter of the exhibit, collecting himself. He finally has his game face back on. He approaches her.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(charming)\
Usually I flirt by offering to take women’s photos. But you look so much like this one that I know that isn’t going to fly.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD LOOKALIKE\
Does that mean you’ll actually have to be genuine?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m only kidding. With me, what you see is what you get.\
The CD Lookalike smiles. Kishen has won over another one.\
FADE OUT.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>THE END
Characters
Places
Archive
Rough Draft - archived 04APR
FADE IN:\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. LIMOUSINE - DAY - TRAVELING\
The magnanimous KISHEN MISTRY, 52, sits wearing sunglasses and wrinkles, in the back of the limo with his ELOCUTIONIST. Traffic is being cooperative today. Neither man speaks and tranquility reigns.
The partition lowers while they are stopped at a red light. The DRIVER dares to let his voice trespass into the sanctum.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DRIVER\
Sorry to disturb you but I’m a big fan of…\
He is interrupted.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Mr. Mistry appreciates your admiration of his work. It is because of devotees like yourself that he has attained such Olympian heights. He is humbled and grateful.\
Kishen might have nodded. It is hard to tell sometimes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DRIVER\
(perturbed)\
I’m sorry. Are you his partner or something?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
I’m his elocutionist.\
The driver doesn’t have any more words.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Mr. Mistry is currently practising mauna. \
(beat)\
That’s a Hindu vow of silence.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DRIVER\
Once again, sorry to disturb you.\
The partition raises.
INT. FLAGSHIP BOOKSTORE - LOBBY - DAY
The elocutionist stands at a podium. A respectable media contingent is set up beneath his gaze. The fans waiting to see Kishen outnumber them 3 to 1 though. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Good morning. N
h
o. \
(beat)\
Photographers aren’t supposed to be this famous.\
In a darker side room, KIshen sips on a blue, tropical mixed drink that matches his shoes. They are the only accent to his otherwise black wardrobe. With his glasses removed, get a good look at the wear and tear on his face. He is reclined in the armchair while an aide is mixing him another cocktail in the guest kitchenette. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST (O.C.)\
They spend the majority of their lives behind the camera instead of in front of one, by definition.\
Back in the lobby, another aide prepares the desk Kishen will sit at to sign autographs. She sets down 5 roughly aligned pens and an industrial sized bottle of hand sanitizer.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Kishen Mistry has balked all the trends ever since his first entry into the public eye, and revitalized the field as a result.\
In the side room, Kishen exchanges his empty glass for the fresh cocktail without so much as a thank you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST (O.C.)\
Many have called this autobiography his victory lap.\
Kishen doesn’t look too victorious, slouched and drunk before mid-day. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST (O.C.)\
We finally get to see a ‘portrait of the artist as a young man’.\
He gets up after taking merely a sip from his new drink. The attendant is at the ready and spritz’s his neck with two healthy doses of cologne.
Back in the lobby, the elocutionist is nodding in acknowledgement of his own oration.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Kishen’s vow of silence is, in fact, an atonement for events that have come to light since the writing of this book. \
Camera shutters chirp as Kishen enters from a side door and walks to the desk. The elocutionist notices and hurries his speech.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
(hurried)\
Please remember that the statute of limitations on any criminal acts implicating Kishen mentioned in the book has definitively expired. Please form an orderly line for autographs from Kishen to my left.
For a quote from Kishen’s publicist, please line up to my right.\
The crowd parts like the red sea.
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. NIGHTCLUB - NIGHT
Another crowd spits down it’s middle. This one is in much darker, louder confines and is dressed much sharper. As most of them part we are left with a duo of shiny-shirted jocks with a handful of each other’s collar. Each of their spare hands are pulled back into a fist ready to unload. There is plenty of shit talk, although actual words can’t be heard over the music blaring. All the spectators have their phones out now, ready to capture what’s undoubtedly next.\
SLOW MOTION\
The first punch flies and lands. The flash’s off everyone’s phone’s go of in rough unison.\
SUPERIMPOSE: CLICK CLICK BOOM\
END SLOW MOTION
A younger KISHEN, 20, watches on the crowd and snaps his own shots from an actual, professional camera. He shifts his stance, focuses and takes more photos. He’s focused.
Bouncers swarm in and starts to break up the action. Kishen doesn’t relent as his flash goes off like a strobe.
A tug on his own collar pulls him away from the situation. Now that a camera isn’t obscuring the view, his face appears about 30 years younger. He stands at attention to face RISHI, 30. He’s dressed like he owns the place.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
(over the music)\
They’re looking for you.\
Kishen nows he needs to be somewhere else and gets on his way. Rishi isn’t done and follows close, talking over Kishen’s shoulder so he’s sure to be heard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
You’ve got a job to do.\
They reach the staircase up to the VIP booths. They’re allowed to go up by the one bouncer who didn’t leave his post for the fight. He knows better. Rishi match’s Kishen’s steps to make sure he’s doesn’t try to escape over the railing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
Sania’s friend paid me a lot to make this happen. I hope they’re not paying you. I’d want my money back.\
In the VIP lounge, a dozen booths are occupied with groups of high rollers partying the way they prefer. Kishen aims for the marquee booth, elevated a foot above the rest.
There he sees SANIA, 26, and her friends swaying too and fro with champagne spilling over the brims of their flutes. Sania sees Kishen. She gives him an annoyed look before capitalizing. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
Photo time!\
Kishen takes the cue and raises his camera in time for the girls to let out a collective ‘woo!’ When he’s done he sets his centres his lens on the loudest girl, in the middle of the herd. It’s VIPTI, the one with a plastic tiara on her head. She blows the camera a kiss.
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. LIMOUSINE - NIGHT - TRAVELING\
There’s still music pumping and fun going on all around her, but Vipti doesn’t look so stellar anymore. We stay on her face as she gulps back some vomit. Kishen is sitting at the forward end of the limo seating, comfortably away from the gang of girls. He stares at the princess. She’s too drunk to notice.
Vipti half-rises in the moving limo and stumbles towards a window and desperately tries to open it. She sticks her head out and lets loose. The remaining girls vocalize their disgust.
Kishen sits up and slyly points his camera at Vipti from under his arm. His flash is turned off and the shutter is too quiet to pick up over the music.
Vipti is still vomiting, her tiara hanging loose off of her head and lilting in the breeze. An oncoming car honks and a friend reels Vipti back in.
Kishen looks through the camera reel, smiling for the first time. He gets to the shots just taken of Vipti. They are blurry and unrecognizable. His smiles disappears.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. MISTRY MANSION - NIGHT
The limo drops of Kishen and Sania in the expansive roundabout parking lot of the mansion they both call home. Sania stumbles as the limo pulls away. Kishen, with his camera stowed now, puts an arm under hers and helps her to the double wooden doorway. She gets them to pause before they open it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
(slurring)\
Don’t tell my mom and dad I was drunk.\
Kishen nods and slowly creaks open the door, which is way too ridiculous to use as an everyday entrance by the way. They’re lucky none of the help are awake.
Kishen hoists Sania up the spiral staircase to her room on the upper story. He uses his freer hand to open the door to a chamber fit for a slightly tacky Victorian princess.
Sania slips out of his embrace and walks until she falls face first into her mattress. She ungracefully kicks off her heels and settles in to sleep with her knees still on the carpet.
That works for Kishen. He heads back down the stairs to his own room. It is spartan in comparison, but what he lacks in showpieces he makes up for in clutter.
Kishen lays down to sleep. His alarm clock reads 3:29.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>THE NEXT DAY\
Kishen’s alarm clock blares at 6:00.
He slowly opens his eyes and lets out a groan.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY FLOORING STORE - DAWN\
Kishen walks in through the front door and locks it behind him. He is clad in his a navy t-shirt and cargo pants - his warehouse uniform. The front-end store displays are difficult to make out in the reduced lighting. Kishen walks past a cardboard cut-out of an India man with both thumbs up and a cheeky grin. The text is some sort of price guarantee.
Kishen walks down the corridor of offices between the showroom and warehouse. The door to the biggest office is ajar and the lights are on. Inside UNCLE MISTRY, 46, is arguing on the phone.
Kishen walks past but not before Uncle Mistry sees a glimpse of navy blue. He puts his desk phone on mute.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
(hushed)\
Kishen! \
(beat)\
Kishen!\
Kishen heard him the firs time. He peeks in. Uncle Mistry’s face is the same one adoring the cardboard cut-out outside, except he;s not nearly as cheery at the moment.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
These Chinese suppliers never want to talk according to our time zones.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
That’s too bad.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Can you make me a pot of coffee before you start?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Sure.\
Uncle Mistry smiles and un-mutes the phone to continue negotiations.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. WAREHOUSE - DAY\
Kishen watches as CD, 22, drives the sole forklift towards him. Her hair is cut short and her oversized jeans are rolled up at the cuffs. She hops out of the forklift before it slows to a complete stop. The move has been finessed over time. She pulls out a clipboard wedged between the read windshield and propane tank.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(looking down at the clipboard)\
How was the party?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You don’t care.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I don’t care.\
She looks up and laughs. Kishen joins in.
CD hands him the clipboard. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
All the orders are picked. No trailers are coming in ‘til 10 o’clock.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Wow. Thanks.\
Kishen doesn’t know what to do with himself. CD is already on her way to the change room. She looks back.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(calling out)\
I know you didn’t sleep. I piled up some foam-pads behind the tall stack of laminate for you to lay down.\
They smile at each other before she turns back around.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AFTER 10’CLOCK\
Kishen drives a skid of hardwood tiles out of a docked trailer. He drives over to some racking and aligns himself. He raised the skid 25 feet into the air. He looks up to see it wavering ever so slightly on the end of the forks. His mouth is agape as he concentrates on the controls and slowly inches the forklift forward.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. KISHEN’S ROOM - DAY\
Kishen has a similar expression on his face, only now he’s glued to his TV while immersed in a violent video game. His DAADHI JI, 67, is playing alongside him. He’s got his legs crossed on the carpet and she’s sitting on the edge of the bed. Kishen is still in his work clothes while Daadhi Ji wears an all grey Indian suit. A shotgun blast, louder than the rest, emanates from the TV.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Headshot.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
Why did I ever teach you how to play?\
He bites his bottom lip as he tries to stand his ground on screen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
So I could teach you some humility. Your grandfather and I owned actual gun, you know?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
*HYPERLINK “scrivcmt://511B939F-4895-4661-874C-199B172B2D62”I like fake ones better.\
The round ends and they both take a moment to relax their hands. In the idle time Daadhi Ji reaches behind her back and picks up a stack of developed photos on the bed. He combs through them,\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Nothing from Sania’s party yet?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
I have to make all the girls look pretty first.\
Daadhi Ji is unperturbed by the joke. She finds a photo that catches her eye. It is light shining off of obscured glass. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
This one is nice. It looks like jewellery.\
She turns it around so Kishen can see.\
KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
Oh. That was the inside of an empty mayonnaise bottle.\
She gently slaps him in the back of the head. He pretends like it hurts more than it actually does.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
They want you to photograph the wedding.\
Kishen straightens up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
I don’t want to do it Daadhi. Wedding photographers are, like, the lowliest kind of photographers. Worse than paparazzi even.\
She gives him a loving but firm look.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Beta, they need someone they trust and you need experience. There are only so many ways to photograph a mayonnaise jar.\
Kishen turns his attention back to the video game.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LATER - NIGHT\
Kishen is alone now and the lights are dimmed. He is on his desktop computer editing the photos from the night before. One particular photo shows the sweat flying off of a jock’s face at the moment a punch landed. Even in nightclub lighting he made the shot work. Kishen clearly has talent.
His door is open. Sania walks in. He cares enough to flip over to a photo of her and her friends and start fiddling with the colour correction dial.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext> SANIA\
Ew. My nose looks huge. Can you fix it?\
Kishen isolates her nose and enlarges it 3 times it’s normal size. She scoffs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m a photographer, not a magician.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
You drive a forklift.\
Kishen flips through other photos of the evening. He gets to one centred on Vipti. Sania laughs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
Keep that one. Vipti looks like a horse.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Wasn’t it her birthday?\
Sania turns to leave.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
After tomorrow things will be about me for a while.\
She stops at the door to make a point.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
Print those out for me before you send them to anyone else.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MANSION FOYER - NIGHT\
Kishen steps out of his room with the party print outs under his arm. He hears a familiar obnoxious voice downstairs. It’s Rishi, talking to Uncle Mistry, who catches Kishen peering down. He stops talking and beckons Kishen downstairs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Have you heard of DJ Roundtable?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It’s not my kind of music *HYPERLINK “scrivcmt://A30F678D-0B2A-4EDA-9496-B423166F0EE3”Uncle.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
This kid was slacking off at the party.\
Uncle Mistry registers Rishi’s words, but motions for him to back off for a second.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
OK then. But is he famous?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Yeah that’s the stuff Sania plays when I can’t sleep on Sunday nights. He’s huge.\
Uncle Mistry slaps his hands and turns to Rishi.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
You were right.\
He shakes hands with Rishi to seal a deal and then turns back to Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
He wants $2000 to play tomorrow night. I had to be sure he wasn’t a nobody.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
I only recommend the best.\
Things catch up in Uncle Mistry’s head,\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
So you were slacking off yesterday?\
He looks don at what Kishen is holding. Kishen sees his chance and extends the photos for inspection. Uncle Mistry is instantly impressed.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Excellent. This is why we want you to photograph the entire weeding. I have a guy lined up for tomorrow night only so far but I can easily tell him so sorry.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It would be a lot to do with the job…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Don’t worry about the warehouse. I’ll keep paying you your wage during the wedding. I’ll just get the caterer’s daughter to work overtime. It’s the least I can do.\
It’s getting awfully hard to say no to this man. Kishen doesn’t do well with pressure or confrontation. He throws his hands up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Sure.\
Uncle Mistry will take a yes, in whatever tone. He has a habit of not knowing when to stop selling though.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Weddings are contagious. Other people will come up to you and ask for your services. Believe me.\
A lady yelling into her phone enter’s stage left. It is AUNTIE MISTRY, 44, wearing western evening attire - totally overdressed for home.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(Yelling)\
Do you make a habit of screwing people over?\
Rishi takes his cue.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
I’m going to go. Be well Uncle. I’ll send over the equipment guys at 6ish tomorrow.\
Uncle Mistry shakes his hand, distracted by the wave about to hit him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(Still yelling)\
Hydrangeas? My only child is getting married. I’m not settling for Hydrangeas. You better show up tomorrow with something better than that, or I’m… Bye.\
She hangs up as a migraine overwhelms her, compelling her to sit down. She rubs her temples on a soothing motion with her eyes closed. Uncle Mistry and Kishen stand, watching her, afraid to move.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
I confirmed the DJ.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
That’s nice.\
She’s still in pain.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Kishen will photograph the entire wedding.\
Auntie Mistry opens her eyes into a squint and forces a smile in Kishen’s direction.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(half-heartedly)\
Thank you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
So you can take it easy for a bit.\
The comment ignites her again.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
So you’ve done an hour’s work and you think everything’s fine? Tomorrow’s the welcome party Vivek. We still have the bridal shower and the milni and the mehndi and the ceremonies and the reception. Plus, cocktails every nightt with the motley crew staying here for the next two weeks… \
Uncle Mistry’s phone rings. He doesn’t hesitate to pick it up, even holding a finger up to get Auntie to shush.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(Yelling again)\
Tell me again how I can take it easy!\
Uncle walks out of earshot, having another business conversation. Kishen is left wondering how he can slink away unnoticed.
Auntie Mistry spares him and sinks back into her chair. This time she grabs her whole forehead and winces and the sheer voracity of her migraine.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY MANSION - NIGHT\
The help has done a great job transforming the house. There are butlers, caterers and valets weaving around the initial trickle of guests. Streamers and balloons are hanging from places that would likely require a high-lift to reach.
At the front door, *HYPERLINK “scrivcmt://2E3717B0-535B-4401-BD2A-1B1872E53E28”Auntie is at the head of the receiving party. She’s made up, wide-eyed and smiling as she greets everyone with glee. Is she the same person? She throws her arms open to make a big embrace. GURU SETI, 56, come in for a hug. He’s a bald, rotund man, yet dressed the best out of everyone there. Kishen, standing at the entrance with camera in hand, snaps a pic of them entwined.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
The esteemed Guru Seti is here. Would you blush if I told you you’re the guest of honour this evening?\
Everyone watches their interaction. Everyone knows who he is. No one can blush on command, so he crinkles his face and gives the slightest bow.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU\
I’d be heart broken if I cast a bigger shadow than the beautiful bride to be.\
Uncle Mistry slaps him on his back. Auntie braces for surely embarrassing words to spill out of his mouth.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
What you have worked on recently.\
He almost has to wipe drool of his chin, the way he’s looking at Guru. Guru doesn’t blink. He’s used to it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU\
I’ve just done the score for the next big hit by one of the Khans.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
(excited)\
Which Khan?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU\
(teasing)\
I’m not telling.\
Uncle Mistry gets himself together.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Oh you sneaky devil. Fair is fair. Is there a part for Sania in the movie?\
Auntie Mistry gets in between them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
We’ve got a room for you on the top floor next to ours. That way you won’t have to mingle with anyone you don’t want to. \
She gently grasps an arm and leads him deeper in the party. People are slyly taking pictures of Guru on their phones. Attendants with Guru’s bags follow in tow. Uncle Mistry motions for Kishen to follow them as well. He also makes a clicking camera symbol with his hands, as if Kishen needed more of a hint.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY (CONT’D)\
There’s a few trays of goodies waiting for you there. The numbers to the kitchen, cleaners and valet are next to your phone. Let’s see if we can beat the usual Hilton for you.\
They stop at the bottom of the stairs. Guru holds Auntie’s hand with affection.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU\
Thank you for your hospitality Sushmita. Just a quick reboot and I’ll be down to have a drink.\
The guests do their best to appear aloof when Auntie turns her attention back to them. She’s pleased that her golden goose has arrived. She scans the room until her eyes fall on the alcove leading to the kitchen. CD and her dad, MR. PATEL are hurriedly preparing a buffet table for the guests. They are both wearing white cook’s clothes and CD has her pant legs rolled up at the cuffs.
Auntie Mistry walks over purposefully.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
Why hasn’t this been set up already? You two need to be moving around with hor d-oeuvre trays. This isn’t a langar hall.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
We couldn’t get into the space. The DJ took an hour to set up…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MR. PATEL\
(interrupting)\
We’re sorry. We’ll be out with trays in 5 minutes.\
Auntie Mistry snaps her fingers.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(calling out)\
Kishen. Come get photos of the food.\
Kishen shuffles over.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Nobody wants to see photos of food.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
For the money I’ve spent on this, I want to see it long after it’s gone. And smile. You’re bringing the mood down.\
She demonstrates. Her face looks like pulled leather with foundation on.
Curb side, a limousine pulls up. A bespoke suited young man, DANNY SHARMA gets out and heads for the party. He has no retinue, just a small roller bag with him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Danny!\
They both reach in for a 2 handed shake.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Uncle Vivek. Congratulations.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Don’t congratulate me yet. The wedding isn’t until next week. Who knows what could go wrong until then.\
His face is initially grave, then it cracks. They both laugh.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I’ll be on the look out for any trouble.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Good. I’ll be on the look out for your first leading role.\
He brings Danny in for a headlock. Danny doesn’t appreciate it.
From inside the foyer, Kishen’s eyes shift towards the tussle. He manages to get a shot of Danny entering the house mid stride. Kishen is taken aback by how photogenic this guy is.
Danny gravitates towards the buffet table, which is finally almost ready. CD wipes sweat off her forehead.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Better not get any on the food.\
She gives him a look of contempt.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Oh, there’s already plenty in a few pieces. Care to play Russian Roulette?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Meh, I’ve tasted my own blood before. How bad can this stuff be?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I can make you a special batch if you prefer. Won’t take a minute.\
Danny sees he’s made a misstep. He cares to course correct.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
We’ve gotten off on the wrong foot.\
He puts a hand to his chest.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I’m Danny Sharma. I’m going to be the next big Bollywood star. Or so they’ve been telling me for the last two years. And you are?\
CD looks him up and down.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Seems the other foot is just as douchey. CD.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
CD? What CD?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
My name.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Your name is CD.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Yes. Problem?\
Danny shrugs it off and eyes the table again. He points at one specific platter.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What are those called?\
CD looks at the dish and looks at Danny again.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You’re kidding me right? Bollywood boy doesn’t know that Ras Gulai are?\
She seems skeptical. Can you blame her?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I grew up in Hong Kong. Hindi is my third language and Indian food is a taste I’m acquiring. You could say I’m coming home.\
He’s winning her over - ever so slightly. She almost forgets she’s working, until she snaps out of it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
OK, nice to meet you and all that. I have to start handing out mini simosas to the rest of your species.\
She picks up a metal hor d’oeuvre tray and starts piling on the finger food.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Do you mind If I?\
She keeps working, answering without looking.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
If you what?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
If I serve the first tray?\
She stops, incredulous.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Why the hell would you do that?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
It’s a great way to meet people. Here, hide my suitcase back there somewhere. I’ll come back for it.\
He points at his suitcase because taking the fully stocked tray from her hands with a wee bit of force.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You’re not a douche. I’m so sorry. You’re just crazy.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
These people are as bad as you think they are. I just don’t happen to care what they think all that much.\
CD watches as he takes the tray over to the first circle of cocktail drinkers. They are initially taken aback by their server. Then Danny cracks a joke and they all swoon over him. CD tilts her head. She has no idea what to make of this guy.
On the other side of the room, Kishen has been watching the interaction. He’s curious.
He scans further to his right to see Daadhi Ji having a blast at the kids table with him jalebi in her hand. She notices and waves. He waves back.
Sania and Auntie Mistry are behind Kishen’s back.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
What the hell is she wearing?\
They are looking at AUNTIE VANDANA, talking with a relative and walking towards them. She is wearing a blue pink dress with blue accents.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
She looks like a flamingo with a bad rash.\
Auntie Vandana is within earshot now so they fix their faces and pretend to be happy to see her.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Sushmita Paan, how long it’s been.\
She hugs Auntie Mistry.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Congratulations, my dear child.\
She hugs Sania.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
It’s so nice to have you here, all the way from India.\
Kishen snaps a picture of them. The flash draws Auntie Vandana’s gaze. She sees Kishen behind the camera and her face falls. She looks to Auntie Mistry for confirmation.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Is this… Kishen? Vivek’s nephew.\
Auntie Mistry has to shift her face from joyous to sombre and it seems laborious.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
Yes it is.\
Auntie Vandana moves quickly to hug Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Oh, my dear boy. I was so sorry to hear about the accident. It was such a tragedy. I’m ashamed we couldn’t make it for the funeral.\
She’s squeezing him pretty tight.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(constricted)\
It was five years ago. I’m doing pretty OK. I can’t breathe Auntie.\
She lets go and turns to Auntie Mistry.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
You two are saints for taking him in.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
He’s a good boy.\
Auntie Vandana looks back and it finally sinks in that Kishen is the wedding photographer.
There’s an awkward silence.
Kishen sees CD taking off her apron and heading outside through a side corridor. He leaves the circle to follow her. Nobody minds.\
EXT. MISTRY MANSION - NIGHT\
CD sits on a stoop out of sight, smoking a cigarette.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Hey.\
She looks up at the familiar voice.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Sick of it yet?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Honestly, its a change from standing around awkwardly, or sitting at the kids table with Daadhi.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Who’s this new, open minded guy? Wanna do my job too?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
That film star doesn’t seem to mind it.\
CD searches momentarily before realizing who he’s talking about.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
He’s just trying to make tonight into his own personal movie scene. Typical \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(blunt)\
Do you like him?\
CD is taken aback by the bluntness of his question.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Kishen, he’s a douche bag.
They all are. \
(beat)\
Why do I owe you an answer anyway?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Just checking to see if you’re going soft.\
CD scoffs and shakes her head. She takes a drag from here cigarette and blows the smoke out soft and long. Kishen capitalizes on her expression and takes a photo.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Stop that. Bother some people that wanna be bothered. Doesn’t seem to be a shortage of them tonight.\
She takes another drag and looks off. Kishen looks the photo of CD on his preview screen. He stares a little too long.
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY MISTRY MANSION - NIGHT\
At the doorway, MIKE ROY, approaches Uncle Mistry. The latter is hesitant to greet him, his usual smile missing in action.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Hello Mike.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Congratulations Vivek. It’s bittersweet to see Sania all grown up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Thanks Mike. It’s a good day.\
He knows there’s more coming. Mike Roy looks past Vivek and soaks up the glitz and spectacle.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
You’re putting on quite a show Vivek. I bet these people wouldn’t know you were on your hands and knees installing tiles just a couple of years ago.\
Uncle Mistry leans in closer so one can overhear.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Are yo here to insult me? At my daughter’s wedding? Are you gonna stoop that low Mike?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I’m just here for what’s mine.\
He’s intimidating.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Never come to my home again. You’ll get everything back. Soon.\
Mike Roy pulls back from him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I can’t leave without having some jalebi first Vivek. That’d just be rude. \
He slides past Uncle Mistry into the mansion foyer.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
(behind his back)\
Be seeing you Vivek.\
Guru Seti has freshened up and rejoined the gawkers, including Auntie Vandana. Kishen is studying them from midway across the room. He takes a picture. Danny is watching over his shoulder.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That must’ve been a good one.\
Kishen is startled and jumps.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Hey, sorry. Just an admirer of artistes and eccentrics. \
(beat)\
You want some of this?\
Danny holds his serving tray up for Kishen to behold. Kishen collects himself and checks to see he hasn’t dropped any expensive equipment. Responding isn’t a priority.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You’re Kishen.\
It wasn’t a question. That got Kishen’s attention. He squints.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
How…?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You’re uncle mentioned you in passing.\
Kishen doesn’t like surprises, but he recalls the face in front of him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You’re Danny Sharma.\
Danny laughs. Kishen is stone faced.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
OK. You’re turn to dish.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
My uncle made us watch that movie of yours he helped finance. He shows it to everyone who comes over.\
Danny picks up a ladoo from his serving tray.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Isn’t it funny how two people can know each other, but never meet?\
He bites a ladoo and moans to himself.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(mouth half full)\
I mean, people know all about celebrities but not the other way around. I think it’s special when it’s mutual. I’m no scientist but I like to think its magnetism.\
He holds a fresh ladoo up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
These are good, whatever they’re called.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Ladoos. You don’t know what ladoos are?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Amazing right? I’m told I’m a lot stupider than I look. How much does that things weigh?\
Dany points at the camera. Kishen clutches it like his only child.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Two and a half pounds without any attachments.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Would you make me a happy man and let me hold it?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I don’t know.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I’ll be careful. Here, lets make a trade.\
Kishen ends up with the tray of ladoos in the swap. Danny inspects the camera.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You turn this dial to focus right? And here to shoot?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(slightly condescending)\
Yeah, that’s the basic way.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
The basic way will do.\
Danny points the camera at Kishen. He stares at the lens - something he doesn’t do often. Danny takes a photo.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
There. Now you’ll have something to remember tonight with too.\
He hands the camera back over with a million dollar smile. Kishen returns the favour.
Through the crowd, Guru Seti moves into their vicinity (with an entourage). \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Where can I see your photography?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I have a website…\
Danny spots Guru Seti approaching and quickly takes the serving tray back.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Cool give me the link. \
(To Guru)\
Ladoo, Seti Ji?\
Guru recognizes the man holding the sweets.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
(loud)\
This is like the fairy tales I read as a kid - in reverse. A prince turned pauper.\
He takes a ladoo. His groupies follow his lead.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Well I’ve done the pauper to prince thing once in my life already Seti Ji. That was a lot harder.\
Guru soaks in Danny’s handsomeness without shame.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
My boy. I’m sorry you didn’t know me sooner then. I could surely have expedited that process.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
A more sensitive boy would take that as, how do you call it, belittling my success?\
The entourage is clearly bothered by the common tone Danny is using to talk to their idol. Guru is not bothered, but looks interested for the first time.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
Not at all. I’m just stating reality. I can turn anyone into a star.\
Danny wants to play. He gestures at Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Even him?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
A movie star, no. Even I’m not that talented. \
(laughs)\
But I could definitely make him the star of the evening.\
Kishen takes a step back. Guru snaps his finger at some idle attendants.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
Take those light stands and point them both over… There. Like a spotlight.\
He points at someone else.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
You, take this to the DJ.\
He holds out his cellphone.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU\
Get him to play the newest file in my downloads folder.\
Guru rotates so that his voice reaches everyone in the foyer.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
(loud)\
Alright. I need everyone’s help here. Who here knows how to dance?\
Many hands go up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SONG: ANYBODY CAN BE A STAR
\
INT. THEATRE - NIGHT
A large crowd applaudes. Light music lingers from the previous song. An OLDER KISHEN, 43, is dressed in a tuxedo at the front row of an awards gala. A PRESENTER in feathers clears her throat.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>PRESENTER\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>And the nominees for Photo of the Year are…\
Kishen reaches for the hand of the woman sitting next to him. When she feels his touch she retreats.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>PRESENTER\
Jordan Isiah - Girl in Eritrea\
Kishen claps. He looks like he’s trying his best to put on a happy face. He zones out.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>PRESENTER\
And the winner is…\
Kishen is already rising from his chair. A habit.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>PRESENTER (CONT’D)\
Kishen Mistry - Before The Big Game\
Kishen buttons his jacket when he’s fully upright. He turns to waves and walk backwards on his way up to the podium. The woman he left behind is clapping half-heartedly.
Kishen collects the award from the gorgeous presenter and kisses he cheek. She blushes and steps aside. Kishen waits for everyone to settle before he speaks.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Not everyone gets to meet their heroes. I met my idol my first year in the business. I consider myself lucky. It wasn’t a pleasant experience by any means. He was an asshole. \
The crowd laughs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I won’t say who it is. He may meet be backstage. Anyway, he told me something. He said enjoy all the fame now, while it’s still new. Pretty quickly, it’ll start to feel normal. Then it’ll start to feel annoying. Then finally, it’ll feel like it was always there. Then you’ll feel you’re a normal guy. Like people recognizing you and fawning over you is how it always was. That’s when your lost. You’ll never make good art again. But I felt that way years ago - and I still take photos - and you people still love them. Something’s very wrong, and I can’t figure it out. So before it catches up to me, I’d like to call it quits on my own terms. This will be my last award show. This will be last speech. This is goodbye.\
The crowd murmurs. The music picks up volume again. It’s got a new twist to it now.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SONG: WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A STAR\
\
\
INT. BASEMENT - MORNING
Kishen wakes up in his boxers, on a couch in the movie room. A classic Bollywood movie is playing on the TV. He collects himself. There are empty cups and half eaten plates around him. He doesn’t seem affected by the late night and puts on his pants with a sense of purpose.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. FOYER - MORNING\
Kishen walks upstairs right into a mess. The foyer is littered with used cups and glasses on every flat surface. Confetti is speckled in hard to reach places.
Daadhi Ji holds an open garbage bag, collecting empty cups off of a banister.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
Where did the cleaners go?\
She turns her head to talk, but keeps at her task.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
They were off shift at midnight. Luckily, I never have that problem.\
Kishen looks concerned.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
Did you sleep?\
He steps forward and clumsily picks up and a cup or two, trying to help.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
I went to bed right after your song. I was dancing along and that took the wind right out of my sails.\
She hols the garbage bag out for Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI (CONT’D)\
Throw that in here.\
He obliges.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I didn’t really want to do all of that.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Well you were very nice to play along. It almost looked like you were enjoying the spotlight by the end of the song.\
She gives him a sly look. He shies away.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Singing and acting are stupid. Any idiot can do that stuff. Speaking of idiots, where did Sania…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Don’t even begin to talk about your family that way. You’ll break my heart.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(contemptuous)\
Thy’re so fake. All of them.\
She puts the garbage bag down and grabs his shoulders. She’s had enough.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Your Uncle slaved away for years. Your father helped him. In the end we are lucky to live in a house like this, and Sania is lucky to pursue her Bollywood dreams. All little girls dream of acting. Your uncle has made her dreams almost come true. You have everything you need to succeed right here - all around you.\
Kishen melts in her hands.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(vulnerable)\
I don’t need any of this.\
Daadhi Ji gives him a pitying look and pinches his chin. He flinches.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
That’s odd. I’ve never seen you do your own laundry. And I don’t even think you know how to begin cleaning your room. You enjoy the perks of this life too. Maybe not as much as your cousin, but you should still be grateful.\
Danny enters the foyer wearing pajamas and looking hungover. He’s holding a carton of orange juice. He takes a swig out of it and winks at Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Morning movie star.\
He bends low and touches Daadhi Ji’s feet to show his respect. She is taken aback and rubs the hair on his head to return the kindness.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(broken English)\
Live a long life, nice boy. \
She points a finger at Kishen and then at Danny.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Friends.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Working on it.\
He nods. Daadhi Ji is content and goes back to cleaning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I… I don’t like being fake. Last night was fake. People laughed and enjoyed it because they thought I was kidding myself. I know better. I’m not a fool.\
Kishen bites his lip. He’s not used to taking a stand. Danny digests what he’s just heard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Alright man. You’re cool… normal. I was trying to show you a good time last night, but you didn’t like it. Noted. Still think you’re cool. I won’t get you into that kinda thing again.\
He extends a hand. Kishen hesistates and then shakes it.
Guru Seti heads down the stairs groaning and wearing a fuzzy bathrobe. An attendant follows him with a tower and parasol. They’re heading for the outdoor pool.
The doorbell rings. Kishen looks left and right for an attendant to answer it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(calls over)\
You live here. You can get it.\
He heads over and opens the door. It’s CD. She’s in civilian clothes for once.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Hey man.\
She walks in past him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I had to leave at the tables here. You people don’t know how to stop enjoying yourselves in a timely fashion.\
She stops when she sees Danny\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Ah sh…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Hey.\
He combs his hair free from any hint of Daadhi Ji’s tousling.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Just here for some things. Don’t want to end up in a music routine by accident. That seems to happen around here.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(laughs)\
I’ve learned my lesson.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. KITCHEN - DAY\
Danny and Kishen trail her into the kitchen. There are several tables folded and leaning against a counter.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Your uncle’s asked me to do half the night shifts for the next month. I’m guessing you won’t be around.\
She isn’t pleased. Danny’s wheels are turning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It was his idea. I didn’t really have a choice. I’m sorry.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Wait, so the two coolest people in this circus are friends?\
Kishen quickly jumps in.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
We work together…\
CD has a lifted a table and is holding it under her arm now.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Yeah, we’re friends.\
She smiles at Kishen, who blushes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
OK. Out of my way.\
They shuffle aside.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You should let us help you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(behind her back)\
I’m parked out front.\
INT. FOYER - DAY
Kishen and Danny walk out of the kitchen holding a table each. They observe Auntie Vandana come down the stairs, on the lookout. She spots Daadhi Ji, still cleaning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
(Hindi)\
Daadhi Ji. Have you seen Guru Seti?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Who?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
(Embarassed)\
The famous man from last night. He’s… fat.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Oh. He went for the pool. He didn’t look to be in the best of moods though.\
That doesn’t deter. Vandana trots off in the direction of the pointing finger. She stops mid-stride.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
(To herself)\
I need my bathing suit.\
She rushes back up the stairs. Kishen and Danny continue on outside.
EXT. DRIVEWAY - DAY
CD is crouched in the back of her Dad’s panel van. Kishen and Danny take turns handing her tables.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Two jobs eh? Do you ever have fun?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I’m having fun right now. Does this not exhilarate you?\
She yanks on Danny’s table as he hands it over. He stumbles to regain his balance.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Not really. But listen. I’ve had enough for the cocktail crowd for now. You two are the only reasonable people I’ve come into contact with since I landed at the airport. Show me how the peasants hang.\
CD is about to fire back. Danny feigns the pose of a boxer with his fists up. That throws her off.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Kidding.\
He mimics a few jabs and he bobs on his feet. CD turns to Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Do you wanna hang too? Are you being held hostage? Blink twice for yes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Eagerly)\
Yeah, I mean, if you want to. Hang, I mean.\
He blinks awkwardly.
INT. FOYER - DAY
They return for the last of the tables. CD stops Danny before he can pick up the last one.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(Devious)\
Alright. We can hang. But the van only has 2 seats. You’ll have to keep the tables company in the back.\
Danny picks up the table anyway.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
As long as I can help myself to what’s in that tupperware I spotted.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Those are two days old.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
My funeral.\
More and more people walk past them in bathing suits in search of Guru Seti. They leave.
INT. PANEL VAN - TRAVELING
CD is driving with Kishen sits in the passenger seats.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I realized we’ve never hung out before.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Yeah. It’s nice. We should do it more often.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
We’ve only driven half a mile in my Dad’s van…\
(laughs)\
But OK.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Just try not to let my uncle work you to death.\
Danny’s hand rises from behind and holds a tupperware of stales sweets up between them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (O.C.)\
Hungry?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Comfortable back there?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
For this one movie, I had to wear a fat suit in the Mumbai summer for a week. I’ve handled adversity before.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
What do you even want to do after we drop these tables off?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Did I mention I have money. Anything. What’s really fun and stupid that you would never waste your own cash on?\
CD thinks, and then smiles.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. CARNIVAL RING - DAY\
The three of them are wearing Sumo suits. CD is elevated and looking down at the other two.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Hold him down.\
Danny is lying down and facing up with mock dread in his eyes. Kishen is sitting with his legs overtop of Danny’s inflated arms.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I’m ready to meet my maker.\
CD jumps and crushes him. They both laugh. Kishen can only muster a smile. He watches them warm up to each other with hesitation.
INT. FAST FOOD RESTAURANT - DAY
CD, Danny and Kishen have been served their food already. It sits half eaten on the crowded table they’re sharing. CD and Danny are laughing at a previously told joke. Kishen has his laptop out. He’s not paying attention to the conversation.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I must’ve lost 10 pounds that week.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
That’s probably why I kicked your ass.\
She pinches his bicep. He flinches. They both laugh.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What does CD stand for anyway?\
He goes for a swig of soda. CD hesitates.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(under her breath)\
Cakranemi.\
Danny almost chokes on his soda. CD looks at him resentfully.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That was worth the…\
Kishen is finished wha he was doing for and interrupts.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
CD look at this.\
CD and Danny are startled. They can almost forget he’s there sometimes. Kishen turns hid laptop screen around. It is the photo he took of CD smoking the night before. He has touched it up and made it look amazing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s amazing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
That’s amazing.\
Dany turns to CD.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You smoke?\
CD is still mesmerized by the photo.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I smoke.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
K.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Kishen that’s awesome. Do you think you could get me some prints. I’ll pay you for them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Pay him? Isn’t he your friend.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
If your friend’s an artist, you help them. You buy their art.\
She looks back at Kishen. He couldn’t be happier.\
KISHEN\
That’s kind but I’m not going anywhere.\
Danny furrows his brow.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What kind of a things is that to say buddy?\
Kishen pauses and thinks before he replies. He’s bubbling to the brim, rather unexpectedly.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I feel like I could do all these great things. Then I remember I’m surrounded by people who just think I’m an inconvenience. Fake people. I don’t think I’ll ever thrive as an artist with them around. Or, me around them.\
He bites his lip. Perhaps he shouldn’t have spoken up. CD looks concerned.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I may rag on about them Kish, but they’re still your family. Your vain, materialistic, obnoxious family. But still…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Forget it.\
There is an awkward silence. Danny is on his phone, texting someone. CD breaks it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I’m working night shift in 6 hours. Need a nap.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Kishen, can we hang out here for a while. I’m meeting a producer who’s in town. We can take a cab home.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Yeah that’s fine.\
CD gets up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Don’t lose that thing. \
CD taps the now closed laptop.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD (CONT’D)\
It may be valuable someday.\
Kishen watches her walk away. Danny catches him staring. He quickly opens his laptop again and gets back to work.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>30 MINUTES LATER - DUSK\
The sun is setting and the restaurant’s clientele is thinning out. Kishen is still buried in his laptop with Danny slouches with a foot up on an empty chair. They’re ordered coffees to keep up their pretence for hanging around.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
He’s almost here.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(distracted)\
Awesome.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
And I lied.\
That gets Kishen’s attention.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
He’s coming to meet you, not me.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Wait what? I told you I don’t like…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I doesn’t involve anything from yesterday. Well, it does but…\
The door chimes as Mike Roy walks in. He already knows where the boys are seated and heads over. He’s wearing a nice suit and looks ridiculously conspicuous. Kishen is wary of this man. Mike sits down at the seat across from Kishen, which Danny has just vacated.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I really believe you two have some… common interests. I’ll leave you alone for a few. Don’t worry, I’m right over there, watching your back.\
Danny taps Kishen’s shoulder and walks away. It doesn’t give Kishen any solace.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Kishen, my apologies for the James Bond routine. It’s just how people like me have to conduct their affairs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It’s OK…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Danny sent me your website. You take great photos. The subject matter isn’t my thing, but you have a - curiosity - that I’m looking for.\
Kishen looks back at Danny, who is watching from afar. Danny waves.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
No real use in being mad at Danny. I’m like a father figure to him. He confides in me. I like to think I foster that trust in people…\
Kishen’s posture is defensive now.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
So this is about my photography? What about it?\
Mike Roy smiles and pauses. It sucks the air out of the room.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I wasn’t finished.\
Kishen doesn’t pester anymore. He’s intimidated.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I have a vested interest in Danny’s success. People who work with me tend to make it far in their pursuits. That’s because I push… To make things turn out the right way.\
Mike Roy starts fiddling with the salt and pepper shakers on the table.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
To be frank, your uncle owes me a lot of money. We were partners a long time ago. I gave him what he needed to get started. I was at the opening of his first flooring store. It was a fraction of any one of his stores that currently operate. You must have still been with your family then.\
Mike Roy positions the salt shaker forward. He then shifts the pepper shaker from side to side. It evokes the movement of chess pieces.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I’m not going to say sorry like everyone else. That’s silly… And fake. Instead, I’m going to give you an opportunity.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You want me to take pictures.\
His deduction helps his posture inch back into the realm of dignity.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Smart. Yes. Take pictures Kishen. If you find something you think I’d like - you’re a smart kid. I think you can figure out what I’d like to see - If you find something I’d want, then we can talk about rewards.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
What kind of rewards?\
Mike Roy unclenches the pepper shaker and sits back.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Money. Work. An undying advocate for your art.\
Kishen has hope in his eyes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Do you want to make your own way in this world?\
He stares at Kishen. Kishen stares back, weighing the scales.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. TALK SHOW SET - DAY\
An older Kishen sits on a prop filled set. He looks happy. The host, TROY, straightens his tie as the show comes back from commercial and the audience claps on cue.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>TROY\
Welcome back. We’re talking to Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist Kishen Mistry. Having fun?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It beats a tent in Burundi.\
The audience laughs. TROY laughs just a little too hard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>TORY\
What motivates you to get out of be every morning?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Well Troy, that’d have to be coffee.\
Ridiculous laughter again. It doesn’t phase Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Seriously though, I wouldn’t be here without my lovely wife. She’s here today…\
The camera cuts to her seated in the front row, with adoration in her eyes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN (CONT’D)\
And she’s my rock.\
She blows him a kiss. The crowd awes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>TROY\
Well if that didn’t win you some points I don’t know what will.\
Hold for laughter.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>TROY (CONT’D)\
Tell us what advice you have for young artists trying to make it today?\
Kishen thinks for a second, then looks into the camera. His face is serious.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Kids, if you get an opportunity, a real opportunity, I don’t care if you think it’s intimidating, if you think it’s beneath you. When you get an opportunity, you take it! You can figure out how the hell you’re actually going to go through with it afterwards.\
The crowd laughs again. Kishen stays serious for a moment longer before he finally breaks too.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MOVIE ROOM - DAY\
A classic, theme consistent, Bollywood film plays on the projector. Danny is watching it on the couch with a mixed drink in hand. Kishen walks in, wearing much sharper clothing than he normally does. He looks slightly uncomfortable.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Now that’s what I’m talking about.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
People are going to notice something’s different about me.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s the thing: people didn’t notice you at all before. Most are just going to wonder where the hell this cool guy came from. For the rest, we’ll blame it on my nurturing influence.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(sarcasm)\
That makes me feel a lot better.\
Danny burps from his drink.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You never saw that. Now, you’re already observant. You’re already stealthy. What you need to learn quickly is how to be cunning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Cunning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Sounds sexy, doesn’t it? Get people talking about themselves. Compliment them, even at your own expense. People love to talk about themselves, especially those people.\
Danny points up the stairs where we can faintly hear music.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (CONT’D)\
They’ll let things slip. They call it gossip. Mike calls it intelligence. That makes our whole outfit sounds cooler actually.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
How do I know they’re telling the truth?\
Danny stands up and walks towards Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Everyone has their own take on how things go down. You ask enough people, and you can glue together the scraps to figure out what’s really happening. I’m actually jealous of you. You’ve got the perfect cover to be any place in this mansion, at any time.\
Danny grabs Kishen’s shoulders.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You heard what Mike said. You’re starting out small here. These are just your fake family and their fake friends. As you get better, you can infiltrate anywhere. You can be as powerful as you want to be.\
Danny straightens Kishen’s tie and brushes off his shoulders.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. FOYER - NIGHT\
The foyer is already full of guests. The party has a mildly offensive Chinese theme, in honour of guests yet to arrive. Kishen is taking photographs of the current guests. Rishi is up at the DJ booth with Turntable. Sania is in conversation with Guru Seti. Auntie Mistry is tucked in the corner, clearly having a quarrel with Uncle Mistry. Kishen spots CD walk in and wavers her over. She’s wearing dressy jeans and a blouse, with sneakers to bring things down a notch.
She looks at Kishen’s get-up as she approaches.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
We must’ve both entered the twilight zone.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(inadvertently blunt)\
What are you doing here if you’re not working?\
CD can’t believe it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Uhm… I can have a live too. Danny invited me. I figured since we’re all buddies it could be fun. Excuse me, all of a sudden I need a smoke.\
She walks away. Kishen thinks about following her, but Danny shows up from the other direction and gets his attention.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You see that lady by the speakers?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(distracted)\
Auntie Vandana. What about her?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (CONT’D)\
She’s obsessed with Guru Seti. \
Kishen gives Danny an annoyed look. He goes back to photographing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
That’s so obvious. Even I’ve noticed that. She almost has to wipe the drool off her chin.\
Danny gets between Kishen and his field of view.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
OK that’s great, but what are you going to do about it? \
Kishen doesn’t have an answer.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Other people are just going to whisper. You can capitalize on it.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DJ TURNTABLE\
(obnoxious)\
Everyone, I’ve just received word that the man of the everything has just arrived outside.\
Next up:
Party and arrival of groom. - Groom treated weird.
Kishen catches Rishi and Sania
Kishen confides in CD. CD begins to like the high life.
Bachelor Party - Kish approaches celebrities
CD tells Danny. Danny steals photos.
\
Rough Draft - archived 22APR
FADE IN:\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. LIMOUSINE - DAY - TRAVELING\
The magnanimous KISHEN MISTRY, 52, sits wearing sunglasses and wrinkles, in the back of the limo with his ELOCUTIONIST. Traffic is being cooperative today. Neither man speaks and tranquility reigns.
The partition lowers while they are stopped at a red light. The DRIVER dares to let his voice trespass into the sanctum.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DRIVER\
Sorry to disturb you but I’m a big fan of…\
He is interrupted.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Mr. Mistry appreciates your admiration of his work. It is because of devotees like yourself that he has attained such Olympian heights. He is humbled and grateful.\
Kishen might have nodded. It is hard to tell sometimes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DRIVER\
(perturbed)\
I’m sorry. Are you his partner or something?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
I’m his elocutionist.\
The driver doesn’t have any more words.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Mr. Mistry is currently practising mauna. \
(beat)\
That’s a Hindu vow of silence.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DRIVER\
Once again, sorry to disturb you.\
The partition raises.
INT. FLAGSHIP BOOKSTORE - LOBBY - DAY
The elocutionist stands at a podium. A respectable media contingent is set up beneath his gaze. The fans waiting to see Kishen outnumber them 3 to 1 though. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Good morning. N
h
o. \
(beat)\
Photographers aren’t supposed to be this famous.\
In a darker side room, KIshen sips on a blue, tropical mixed drink that matches his shoes. They are the only accent to his otherwise black wardrobe. With his glasses removed, get a good look at the wear and tear on his face. He is reclined in the armchair while an aide is mixing him another cocktail in the guest kitchenette. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST (O.C.)\
They spend the majority of their lives behind the camera instead of in front of one, by definition.\
Back in the lobby, another aide prepares the desk Kishen will sit at to sign autographs. She sets down 5 roughly aligned pens and an industrial sized bottle of hand sanitizer.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Kishen Mistry has balked all the trends ever since his first entry into the public eye, and revitalized the field as a result.\
In the side room, Kishen exchanges his empty glass for the fresh cocktail without so much as a thank you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST (O.C.)\
Many have called this autobiography his victory lap.\
Kishen doesn’t look too victorious, slouched and drunk before mid-day. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST (O.C.)\
We finally get to see a ‘portrait of the artist as a young man’.\
He gets up after taking merely a sip from his new drink. The attendant is at the ready and spritz’s his neck with two healthy doses of cologne.
Back in the lobby, the elocutionist is nodding in acknowledgement of his own oration.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
Kishen’s vow of silence is, in fact, an atonement for events that have come to light since the writing of this book. \
Camera shutters chirp as Kishen enters from a side door and walks to the desk. The elocutionist notices and hurries his speech.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>ELOCUTIONIST\
(hurried)\
Please remember that the statute of limitations on any criminal acts implicating Kishen mentioned in the book has definitively expired. Please form an orderly line for autographs from Kishen to my left.
For a quote from Kishen’s publicist, please line up to my right.\
The crowd parts like the red sea.
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. NIGHTCLUB - NIGHT
Another crowds rustles. This one is in much darker, louder confines and is dressed much sharper. A younger KISHEN, 20, is weaving through the crowd, taking pictures of party goers , not always in flattering situations.
A broad bouncer gets in his way and tugs him off to the \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. BACK ROOM - NIGHT\
side. Kishen is lead into a seedy back room where organized criminals are having their own private party. There are beautiful women, cocaine and guns sitting on tables. MIKE ROY sits with only a women keeping him company. He is mid-conversation when the bouncer presents Kishen. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
(annoyed)\
What?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>BOUNCER\
This is the Mistry kid.\
Mike’s disposition changes. He makes eyes to get the girl to leave and she obeys.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
(To Kishen)\
Have a seat.\
It isn’t a request. Kishen is shoved into the chair by the bouncer. He protects his camera from injury and clutching it against his chest.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
So you’re a photographer now?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(hesitant)\
Should I know you?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
You won’t remember but I used to bounce you around on my knee when you were young. Your father was still alive then. Him and your uncle used to work with me.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(looking around)\
My father was in construction.\
Mike Roy laughs and then points around them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Half of these guys are carpenters when they file their taxes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(indignant)\
He wasn’t a gangster.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I didn’t say that.\
He turns to the bouncer, still overlooking the table.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY (CONT’D)\
Did I say that?\
The bouncer shakes his head.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Your father knew how to play his role and he benefited. Your uncle… He’s always been more stubborn… And short-sighted. Do you like living with your uncle?\
Kishen clutches his camera tighter and shrinks into himself. Mike Roy’s eyes zero in on the camera.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Me and your father did well together, but he had a skill set… that I can see wasn’t genetic. Not the end of the world. I’ve you’ve got an entirely different set of skills that would be useful for me. May I?\
Mike Roy gestures for the camera. Kishen reluctantly hands it over.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
(examining the camera)\
Have you ever wanted to be a spy?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(awkward)\
Like… James Bond?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
(chuckling)\
More like the KGB… But close enough.\
An uproar can be heard outside the doors, back near the dance floor. Kishen starts fidgeting. Mike Roy places the camera back down. Kishen instantly grabs it and runs off in the direction of the noise.
The bouncer makes to run after him but Mike Roy speaks up first.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Let him go. Weird kid.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. NIGHTCLUB - NIGHT\
Kishen opens the door into the main club section and the volume grows exponentially. More shouts are heard and Kishen traces their origin to the centre of the dance floor.
The crowd of party goers is forming a circle around some action in the middle. As most of them part we are left with a duo of shiny-shirted jocks with a handful of each other’s collar. Each of their spare hands are pulled back into a fist ready to unload. There is plenty of shit talk, although actual words can’t be heard over the music blaring. All the spectators have their phones out now, ready to capture what’s undoubtedly next.\
SLOW MOTION\
The first punch flies and lands. The flash’s off everyone’s phone’s go of in rough unison.\
SUPERIMPOSE: CLICK CLICK BOOM\
END SLOW MOTION
Kishen snaps his own shots from his actual, professional camera. He shifts his stance, focuses and takes more photos. He’s focused.
Bouncers swarm in and starts to break up the action. Kishen doesn’t relent as his flash goes off like a strobe.
A tug on his own collar pulls him away from the situation. Now that a camera isn’t obscuring the view, his face appears about 30 years younger. He stands at attention to face RISHI, 30. He’s dressed like he owns the place.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
(over the music)\
They’re looking *HYPERLINK “scrivcmt://CAC7BF72-E32A-4C54-A2BE-AD12F7C607DD”for you.\
Kishen knows he needs to be somewhere else and gets on his way. Rishi isn’t done and follows close, talking over Kishen’s shoulder so he’s sure to be heard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
You’ve got a job to do.\
They reach the staircase up to the VIP booths. They’re allowed to go up by the one bouncer who didn’t leave his post for the fight. He knows better. Rishi match’s Kishen’s steps to make sure he’s doesn’t try to escape over the railing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
Sania’s friend paid me a lot to make this happen. I hope they’re not paying you. I’d want my money back.\
In the VIP lounge, a dozen booths are occupied with groups of high rollers partying the way they prefer. Kishen aims for the marquee booth, elevated a foot above the rest.
There he sees SANIA, 26, and her friends swaying too and fro with champagne spilling over the brims of their flutes. Sania sees Kishen. She gives him an annoyed look before capitalizing. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
Photo time!\
Kishen takes the cue and raises his camera in time for the girls to let out a collective ‘woo!’ When he’s done he sets his centres his lens on the loudest girl, in the middle of the herd. It’s VIPTI, the one with a plastic tiara on her head. She blows the camera a kiss.
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. LIMOUSINE - NIGHT - TRAVELING\
There’s still music pumping and fun going on all around her, but Vipti doesn’t look so stellar anymore. We stay on her face as she gulps back some vomit. Kishen is sitting at the forward end of the limo seating, comfortably away from the gang of girls. He stares at the princess. She’s too drunk to notice.
Vipti half-rises in the moving limo and stumbles towards a window and desperately tries to open it. She sticks her head out and lets loose. The remaining girls vocalize their disgust.
Kishen sits up and slyly points his camera at Vipti from under his arm. His flash is turned off and the shutter is too quiet to pick up over the music.
Vipti is still vomiting, her tiara hanging loose off of her head and lilting in the breeze. An oncoming car honks and a friend reels Vipti back in.
Kishen looks through the camera reel, smiling for the first time. He gets to the shots just taken of Vipti. They are blurry and unrecognizable. His smiles disappears.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. MISTRY MANSION - NIGHT
The limo drops of Kishen and Sania in the expansive roundabout parking lot of the mansion they both call home. Sania stumbles as the limo pulls away. Kishen, with his camera stowed now, puts an arm under hers and helps her to the double wooden doorway. She gets them to pause before they open it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
(slurring)\
Don’t tell my mom and dad I was drunk.\
Kishen nods and slowly creaks open the door, which is way too ridiculous to use as an everyday entrance by the way. They’re lucky none of the help are awake.
Kishen hoists Sania up the spiral staircase to her room on the upper story. He uses his freer hand to open the door to a chamber fit for a slightly tacky Victorian princess.
Sania slips out of his embrace and walks until she falls face first into her mattress. She ungracefully kicks off her heels and settles in to sleep with her knees still on the carpet.
That works for Kishen. He heads back down the stairs to his own room. It is spartan in comparison, but what he lacks in showpieces he makes up for in clutter.
Kishen lays down to sleep. His alarm clock reads 3:29.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>THE NEXT DAY\
Kishen’s alarm clock blares at 6:00.
He slowly opens his eyes and lets out a groan.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY FLOORING STORE - DAWN\
Kishen walks in through the front door and locks it behind him. He is clad in his a navy t-shirt and cargo pants - his warehouse uniform. The front-end store displays are difficult to make out in the reduced lighting. Kishen walks past a cardboard cut-out of an India man with both thumbs up and a cheeky grin. The text is some sort of price guarantee.
Kishen walks down the corridor of offices between the showroom and warehouse. The door to the biggest office is ajar and the lights are on. Inside UNCLE MISTRY, 46, is arguing on the phone.
Kishen walks past but not before Uncle Mistry sees a glimpse of navy blue. He puts his desk phone on mute.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
(hushed)\
Kishen! \
(beat)\
Kishen!\
Kishen heard him the firs time. He peeks in. Uncle Mistry’s face is the same one adoring the cardboard cut-out outside, except he;s not nearly as cheery at the moment.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
These Chinese suppliers never want to talk according to our time zones.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
That’s too bad.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Can you make me a pot of coffee before you start?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Sure.\
Uncle Mistry smiles and un-mutes the phone to continue negotiations.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. WAREHOUSE - DAY\
Kishen watches as CD, 22, drives the sole forklift towards him. Her hair is cut short and her oversized jeans are rolled up at the cuffs. She hops out of the forklift before it slows to a complete stop. The move has been finessed over time. She pulls out a clipboard wedged between the read windshield and propane tank.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(looking down at the clipboard)\
How was the party?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You don’t care.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I don’t care.\
She looks up and laughs. Kishen joins in.
CD hands him the clipboard. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
All the orders are picked. No trailers are coming in ‘til 10 o’clock.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Wow. Thanks.\
Kishen doesn’t know what to do with himself. CD is already on her way to the change room. She looks back.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(calling out)\
I know you didn’t sleep. I piled up some foam-pads behind the tall stack of laminate for you to lay down.\
They smile at each other before she turns back around.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AFTER 10’CLOCK\
Kishen drives a skid of hardwood tiles out of a docked trailer. He drives over to some racking and aligns himself. He raised the skid 25 feet into the air. He looks up to see it wavering ever so slightly on the end of the forks. His mouth is agape as he concentrates on the controls and slowly inches the forklift forward.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. KISHEN’S ROOM - DAY\
Kishen has a similar expression on his face, only now he’s glued to his TV while immersed in a violent video game. His DAADHI JI, 67, is playing alongside him. He’s got his legs crossed on the carpet and she’s sitting on the edge of the bed. Kishen is still in his work clothes while Daadhi Ji wears an all grey Indian suit. A shotgun blast, louder than the rest, emanates from the TV.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Headshot.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
Why did I ever teach you how to play?\
He bites his bottom lip as he tries to stand his ground on screen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
So I could teach you some humility. Your grandfather and I owned actual gun, you know?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
*HYPERLINK “scrivcmt://511B939F-4895-4661-874C-199B172B2D62”I like fake ones better.\
The round ends and they both take a moment to relax their hands. In the idle time Daadhi Ji reaches behind her back and picks up a stack of developed photos on the bed. He combs through them,\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Nothing from Sania’s party yet?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
I have to make all the girls look pretty first.\
Daadhi Ji is unperturbed by the joke. She finds a photo that catches her eye. It is light shining off of obscured glass. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
This one is nice. It looks like jewellery.\
She turns it around so Kishen can see.\
KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
Oh. That was the inside of an empty mayonnaise bottle.\
She gently slaps him in the back of the head. He pretends like it hurts more than it actually does.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
They want you to photograph the wedding.\
Kishen straightens up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
I don’t want to do it Daadhi. Wedding photographers are, like, the lowliest kind of photographers. Worse than paparazzi even.\
She gives him a loving but firm look.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Beta, they need someone they trust and you need experience. There are only so many ways to photograph a mayonnaise jar.\
Kishen turns his attention back to the video game.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LATER - NIGHT\
Kishen is alone now and the lights are dimmed. He is on his desktop computer editing the photos from the night before. One particular photo shows the sweat flying off of a jock’s face at the moment a punch landed. Even in nightclub lighting he made the shot work. Kishen clearly has talent.
His door is open. Sania walks in. He cares enough to flip over to a photo of her and her friends and start fiddling with the colour correction dial.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext> SANIA\
Ew. My nose looks huge. Can you fix it?\
Kishen isolates her nose and enlarges it 3 times it’s normal size. She scoffs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m a photographer, not a magician.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
You drive a forklift.\
Kishen flips through other photos of the evening. He gets to one centred on Vipti. Sania laughs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
Keep that one. Vipti looks like a horse.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Wasn’t it her birthday?\
Sania turns to leave.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
After tomorrow things will be about me for a while.\
She stops at the door to make a point.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
Print those out for me before you send them to anyone else.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MANSION FOYER - NIGHT\
Kishen steps out of his room with the party print outs under his arm. He hears a familiar obnoxious voice downstairs. It’s Rishi, talking to Uncle Mistry, who catches Kishen peering down. He stops talking and beckons Kishen downstairs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Have you heard of DJ Roundtable?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It’s not my kind of music *HYPERLINK “scrivcmt://A30F678D-0B2A-4EDA-9496-B423166F0EE3”Uncle.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
This kid was slacking off at the party.\
Uncle Mistry registers Rishi’s words, but motions for him to back off for a second.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
OK then. But is he famous?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Yeah that’s the stuff Sania plays when I can’t sleep on Sunday nights. He’s huge.\
Uncle Mistry slaps his hands and turns to Rishi.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
You were right.\
He shakes hands with Rishi to seal a deal and then turns back to Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
He wants $2000 to play tomorrow night. I had to be sure he wasn’t a nobody.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
I only recommend the best.\
Things catch up in Uncle Mistry’s head,\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
So you were slacking off yesterday?\
He looks don at what Kishen is holding. Kishen sees his chance and extends the photos for inspection. Uncle Mistry is instantly impressed.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Excellent. This is why we want you to photograph the entire weeding. I have a guy lined up for tomorrow night only so far but I can easily tell him so sorry.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It would be a lot to do with the job…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Don’t worry about the warehouse. I’ll keep paying you your wage during the wedding. I’ll just get the caterer’s daughter to work overtime. It’s the least I can do.\
It’s getting awfully hard to say no to this man. Kishen doesn’t do well with pressure or confrontation. He throws his hands up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Sure.\
Uncle Mistry will take a yes, in whatever tone. He has a habit of not knowing when to stop selling though.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Weddings are contagious. Other people will come up to you and ask for your services. Believe me.\
A lady yelling into her phone enter’s stage left. It is AUNTIE MISTRY, 44, wearing western evening attire - totally overdressed for home.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(Yelling)\
Do you make a habit of screwing people over?\
Rishi takes his cue.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
I’m going to go. Be well Uncle. I’ll send over the equipment guys at 6ish tomorrow.\
Uncle Mistry shakes his hand, distracted by the wave about to hit him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(Still yelling)\
Hydrangeas? My only child is getting married. I’m not settling for Hydrangeas. You better show up tomorrow with something better than that, or I’m… Bye.\
She hangs up as a migraine overwhelms her, compelling her to sit down. She rubs her temples on a soothing motion with her eyes closed. Uncle Mistry and Kishen stand, watching her, afraid to move.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
I confirmed the DJ.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
That’s nice.\
She’s still in pain.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Kishen will photograph the entire wedding.\
Auntie Mistry opens her eyes into a squint and forces a smile in Kishen’s direction.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(half-heartedly)\
Thank you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
So you can take it easy for a bit.\
The comment ignites her again.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
So you’ve done an hour’s work and you think everything’s fine? Tomorrow’s the welcome party Vivek. We still have the bridal shower and the milni and the mehndi and the ceremonies and the reception. Plus, cocktails every nightt with the motley crew staying here for the next two weeks… \
Uncle Mistry’s phone rings. He doesn’t hesitate to pick it up, even holding a finger up to get Auntie to shush.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(Yelling again)\
Tell me again how I can take it easy!\
Uncle walks out of earshot, having another business conversation. Kishen is left wondering how he can slink away unnoticed.
Auntie Mistry spares him and sinks back into her chair. This time she grabs her whole forehead and winces and the sheer voracity of her migraine.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY MANSION - NIGHT\
The help has done a great job transforming the house. There are butlers, caterers and valets weaving around the initial trickle of guests. Streamers and balloons are hanging from places that would likely require a high-lift to reach.
At the front door, *HYPERLINK “scrivcmt://2E3717B0-535B-4401-BD2A-1B1872E53E28”Auntie is at the head of the receiving party. She’s made up, wide-eyed and smiling as she greets everyone with glee. Is she the same person? She throws her arms open to make a big embrace. GURU SETI, 56, come in for a hug. He’s a bald, rotund man, yet dressed the best out of everyone there. Kishen, standing at the entrance with camera in hand, snaps a pic of them entwined.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
The esteemed Guru Seti is here. Would you blush if I told you you’re the guest of honour this evening?\
Everyone watches their interaction. Everyone knows who he is. No one can blush on command, so he crinkles his face and gives the slightest bow.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU\
I’d be heart broken if I cast a bigger shadow than the beautiful bride to be.\
Uncle Mistry slaps him on his back. Auntie braces for surely embarrassing words to spill out of his mouth.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
What you have worked on recently.\
He almost has to wipe drool of his chin, the way he’s looking at Guru. Guru doesn’t blink. He’s used to it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU\
I’ve just done the score for the next big hit by one of the Khans.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
(excited)\
Which Khan?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU\
(teasing)\
I’m not telling.\
Uncle Mistry gets himself together.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Oh you sneaky devil. Fair is fair. Is there a part for Sania in the movie?\
Auntie Mistry gets in between them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
We’ve got a room for you on the top floor next to ours. That way you won’t have to mingle with anyone you don’t want to. \
She gently grasps an arm and leads him deeper in the party. People are slyly taking pictures of Guru on their phones. Attendants with Guru’s bags follow in tow. Uncle Mistry motions for Kishen to follow them as well. He also makes a clicking camera symbol with his hands, as if Kishen needed more of a hint.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY (CONT’D)\
There’s a few trays of goodies waiting for you there. The numbers to the kitchen, cleaners and valet are next to your phone. Let’s see if we can beat the usual Hilton for you.\
They stop at the bottom of the stairs. Guru holds Auntie’s hand with affection.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU\
Thank you for your hospitality Sushmita. Just a quick reboot and I’ll be down to have a drink.\
The guests do their best to appear aloof when Auntie turns her attention back to them. She’s pleased that her golden goose has arrived. She scans the room until her eyes fall on the alcove leading to the kitchen. CD and her dad, MR. PATEL are hurriedly preparing a buffet table for the guests. They are both wearing white cook’s clothes and CD has her pant legs rolled up at the cuffs.
Auntie Mistry walks over purposefully.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
Why hasn’t this been set up already? You two need to be moving around with hor d-oeuvre trays. This isn’t a langar hall.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
We couldn’t get into the space. The DJ took an hour to set up…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MR. PATEL\
(interrupting)\
We’re sorry. We’ll be out with trays in 5 minutes.\
Auntie Mistry snaps her fingers.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
(calling out)\
Kishen. Come get photos of the food.\
Kishen shuffles over.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Nobody wants to see photos of food.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
For the money I’ve spent on this, I want to see it long after it’s gone. And smile. You’re bringing the mood down.\
She demonstrates. Her face looks like pulled leather with foundation on.
Curb side, a limousine pulls up. A bespoke suited young man, DANNY SHARMA gets out and heads for the party. He has no retinue, just a small roller bag with him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Danny!\
They both reach in for a 2 handed shake.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Uncle Vivek. Congratulations.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Don’t congratulate me yet. The wedding isn’t until next week. Who knows what could go wrong until then.\
His face is initially grave, then it cracks. They both laugh.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I’ll be on the look out for any trouble.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Good. I’ll be on the look out for your first leading role.\
He brings Danny in for a headlock. Danny doesn’t appreciate it.
From inside the foyer, Kishen’s eyes shift towards the tussle. He manages to get a shot of Danny entering the house mid stride. Kishen is taken aback by how photogenic this guy is.
Danny gravitates towards the buffet table, which is finally almost ready. CD wipes sweat off her forehead.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Better not get any on the food.\
She gives him a look of contempt.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Oh, there’s already plenty in a few pieces. Care to play Russian Roulette?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Meh, I’ve tasted my own blood before. How bad can this stuff be?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I can make you a special batch if you prefer. Won’t take a minute.\
Danny sees he’s made a misstep. He cares to course correct.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
We’ve gotten off on the wrong foot.\
He puts a hand to his chest.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I’m Danny Sharma. I’m going to be the next big Bollywood star. Or so they’ve been telling me for the last two years. And you are?\
CD looks him up and down.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Seems the other foot is just as douchey. CD.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
CD? What CD?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
My name.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Your name is CD.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Yes. Problem?\
Danny shrugs it off and eyes the table again. He points at one specific platter.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What are those called?\
CD looks at the dish and looks at Danny again.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You’re kidding me right? Bollywood boy doesn’t know that Ras Gulai are?\
She seems skeptical. Can you blame her?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I grew up in Hong Kong. Hindi is my third language and Indian food is a taste I’m acquiring. You could say I’m coming home.\
He’s winning her over - ever so slightly. She almost forgets she’s working, until she snaps out of it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
OK, nice to meet you and all that. I have to start handing out mini simosas to the rest of your species.\
She picks up a metal hor d’oeuvre tray and starts piling on the finger food.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Do you mind If I?\
She keeps working, answering without looking.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
If you what?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
If I serve the first tray?\
She stops, incredulous.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Why the hell would you do that?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
It’s a great way to meet people. Here, hide my suitcase back there somewhere. I’ll come back for it.\
He points at his suitcase because taking the fully stocked tray from her hands with a wee bit of force.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You’re not a douche. I’m so sorry. You’re just crazy.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
These people are as bad as you think they are. I just don’t happen to care what they think all that much.\
CD watches as he takes the tray over to the first circle of cocktail drinkers. They are initially taken aback by their server. Then Danny cracks a joke and they all swoon over him. CD tilts her head. She has no idea what to make of this guy.
On the other side of the room, Kishen has been watching the interaction. He’s curious.
He scans further to his right to see Daadhi Ji having a blast at the kids table with him jalebi in her hand. She notices and waves. He waves back.
Sania and Auntie Mistry are behind Kishen’s back.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
What the hell is she wearing?\
They are looking at AUNTIE VANDANA, talking with a relative and walking towards them. She is wearing a blue pink dress with blue accents.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
She looks like a flamingo with a bad rash.\
Auntie Vandana is within earshot now so they fix their faces and pretend to be happy to see her.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Sushmita Paan, how long it’s been.\
She hugs Auntie Mistry.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Congratulations, my dear child.\
She hugs Sania.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
It’s so nice to have you here, all the way from India.\
Kishen snaps a picture of them. The flash draws Auntie Vandana’s gaze. She sees Kishen behind the camera and her face falls. She looks to Auntie Mistry for confirmation.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Is this… Kishen? Vivek’s nephew.\
Auntie Mistry has to shift her face from joyous to sombre and it seems laborious.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
Yes it is.\
Auntie Vandana moves quickly to hug Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Oh, my dear boy. I was so sorry to hear about the accident. It was such a tragedy. I’m ashamed we couldn’t make it for the funeral.\
She’s squeezing him pretty tight.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(constricted)\
It was five years ago. I’m doing pretty OK. I can’t breathe Auntie.\
She lets go and turns to Auntie Mistry.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
You two are saints for taking him in.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
He’s a good boy.\
Auntie Vandana looks back and it finally sinks in that Kishen is the wedding photographer.
There’s an awkward silence.
Kishen sees CD taking off her apron and heading outside through a side corridor. He leaves the circle to follow her. Nobody minds.\
EXT. MISTRY MANSION - NIGHT\
CD sits on a stoop out of sight, smoking a cigarette.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Hey.\
She looks up at the familiar voice.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Sick of it yet?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Honestly, its a change from standing around awkwardly, or sitting at the kids table with Daadhi.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Who’s this new, open minded guy? Wanna do my job too?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
That film star doesn’t seem to mind it.\
CD searches momentarily before realizing who he’s talking about.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
He’s just trying to make tonight into his own personal movie scene. Typical \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(blunt)\
Do you like him?\
CD is taken aback by the bluntness of his question.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Kishen, he’s a douche bag.
They all are. \
(beat)\
Why do I owe you an answer anyway?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Just checking to see if you’re going soft.\
CD scoffs and shakes her head. She takes a drag from here cigarette and blows the smoke out soft and long. Kishen capitalizes on her expression and takes a photo.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Stop that. Bother some people that wanna be bothered. Doesn’t seem to be a shortage of them tonight.\
She takes another drag and looks off. Kishen looks the photo of CD on his preview screen. He stares a little too long.
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MISTRY MISTRY MANSION - NIGHT\
At the doorway, MIKE ROY, approaches Uncle Mistry. The latter is hesitant to greet him, his usual smile missing in action.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Hello Mike.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Congratulations Vivek. It’s bittersweet to see Sania all grown up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Thanks Mike. It’s a good day.\
He knows there’s more coming. Mike Roy looks past Vivek and soaks up the glitz and spectacle.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
You’re putting on quite a show Vivek. I bet these people wouldn’t know you were on your hands and knees installing tiles just a couple of years ago.\
Uncle Mistry leans in closer so one can overhear.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Are yo here to insult me? At my daughter’s wedding? Are you gonna stoop that low Mike?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I’m just here for what’s mine.\
He’s intimidating.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Never come to my home again. You’ll get everything back. Soon.\
Mike Roy pulls back from him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I can’t leave without having some jalebi first Vivek. That’d just be rude. \
He slides past Uncle Mistry into the mansion foyer.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
(behind his back)\
Be seeing you Vivek.\
Guru Seti has freshened up and rejoined the gawkers, including Auntie Vandana. Kishen is studying them from midway across the room. He takes a picture. Danny is watching over his shoulder.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That must’ve been a good one.\
Kishen is startled and jumps.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Hey, sorry. Just an admirer of artistes and eccentrics. \
(beat)\
You want some of this?\
Danny holds his serving tray up for Kishen to behold. Kishen collects himself and checks to see he hasn’t dropped any expensive equipment. Responding isn’t a priority.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You’re Kishen.\
It wasn’t a question. That got Kishen’s attention. He squints.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
How…?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You’re uncle mentioned you in passing.\
Kishen doesn’t like surprises, but he recalls the face in front of him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You’re Danny Sharma.\
Danny laughs. Kishen is stone faced.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
OK. You’re turn to dish.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
My uncle made us watch that movie of yours he helped finance. He shows it to everyone who comes over.\
Danny picks up a ladoo from his serving tray.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Isn’t it funny how two people can know each other, but never meet?\
He bites a ladoo and moans to himself.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(mouth half full)\
I mean, people know all about celebrities but not the other way around. I think it’s special when it’s mutual. I’m no scientist but I like to think its magnetism.\
He holds a fresh ladoo up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
These are good, whatever they’re called.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Ladoos. You don’t know what ladoos are?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Amazing right? I’m told I’m a lot stupider than I look. How much does that things weigh?\
Dany points at the camera. Kishen clutches it like his only child.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Two and a half pounds without any attachments.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Would you make me a happy man and let me hold it?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I don’t know.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I’ll be careful. Here, lets make a trade.\
Kishen ends up with the tray of ladoos in the swap. Danny inspects the camera.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You turn this dial to focus right? And here to shoot?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(slightly condescending)\
Yeah, that’s the basic way.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
The basic way will do.\
Danny points the camera at Kishen. He stares at the lens - something he doesn’t do often. Danny takes a photo.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
There. Now you’ll have something to remember tonight with too.\
He hands the camera back over with a million dollar smile. Kishen returns the favour.
Through the crowd, Guru Seti moves into their vicinity (with an entourage). \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Where can I see your photography?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I have a website…\
Danny spots Guru Seti approaching and quickly takes the serving tray back.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Cool give me the link. \
(To Guru)\
Ladoo, Seti Ji?\
Guru recognizes the man holding the sweets.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
(loud)\
This is like the fairy tales I read as a kid - in reverse. A prince turned pauper.\
He takes a ladoo. His groupies follow his lead.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Well I’ve done the pauper to prince thing once in my life already Seti Ji. That was a lot harder.\
Guru soaks in Danny’s handsomeness without shame.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
My boy. I’m sorry you didn’t know me sooner then. I could surely have expedited that process.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
A more sensitive boy would take that as, how do you call it, belittling my success?\
The entourage is clearly bothered by the common tone Danny is using to talk to their idol. Guru is not bothered, but looks interested for the first time.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
Not at all. I’m just stating reality. I can turn anyone into a star.\
Danny wants to play. He gestures at Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Even him?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
A movie star, no. Even I’m not that talented. \
(laughs)\
But I could definitely make him the star of the evening.\
Kishen takes a step back. Guru snaps his finger at some idle attendants.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
Take those light stands and point them both over… There. Like a spotlight.\
He points at someone else.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
You, take this to the DJ.\
He holds out his cellphone.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU\
Get him to play the newest file in my downloads folder.\
Guru rotates so that his voice reaches everyone in the foyer.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
(loud)\
Alright. I need everyone’s help here. Who here knows how to dance?\
Many hands go up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SONG: ANYBODY CAN BE A STAR
\
INT. THEATRE - NIGHT
A large crowd applaudes. Light music lingers from the previous song. An OLDER KISHEN, 43, is dressed in a tuxedo at the front row of an awards gala. A PRESENTER in feathers clears her throat.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>PRESENTER\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>And the nominees for Photo of the Year are…\
Kishen reaches for the hand of the woman sitting next to him. When she feels his touch she retreats.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>PRESENTER\
Jordan Isiah - Girl in Eritrea\
Kishen claps. He looks like he’s trying his best to put on a happy face. He zones out.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>PRESENTER\
And the winner is…\
Kishen is already rising from his chair. A habit.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>PRESENTER (CONT’D)\
Kishen Mistry - Before The Big Game\
Kishen buttons his jacket when he’s fully upright. He turns to waves and walk backwards on his way up to the podium. The woman he left behind is clapping half-heartedly.
Kishen collects the award from the gorgeous presenter and kisses he cheek. She blushes and steps aside. Kishen waits for everyone to settle before he speaks.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Not everyone gets to meet their heroes. I met my idol my first year in the business. I consider myself lucky. It wasn’t a pleasant experience by any means. He was an asshole. \
The crowd laughs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I won’t say who it is. He may meet be backstage. Anyway, he told me something. He said enjoy all the fame now, while it’s still new. Pretty quickly, it’ll start to feel normal. Then it’ll start to feel annoying. Then finally, it’ll feel like it was always there. Then you’ll feel you’re a normal guy. Like people recognizing you and fawning over you is how it always was. That’s when your lost. You’ll never make good art again. But I felt that way years ago - and I still take photos - and you people still love them. Something’s very wrong, and I can’t figure it out. So before it catches up to me, I’d like to call it quits on my own terms. This will be my last award show. This will be last speech. This is goodbye.\
The crowd murmurs. The music picks up volume again. It’s got a new twist to it now.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SONG: WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A STAR\
\
\
INT. BASEMENT - MORNING
Kishen wakes up in his boxers, on a couch in the movie room. A classic Bollywood movie is playing on the TV. He collects himself. There are empty cups and half eaten plates around him. He doesn’t seem affected by the late night and puts on his pants with a sense of purpose.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. FOYER - MORNING\
Kishen walks upstairs right into a mess. The foyer is littered with used cups and glasses on every flat surface. Confetti is speckled in hard to reach places.
Daadhi Ji holds an open garbage bag, collecting empty cups off of a banister.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
Where did the cleaners go?\
She turns her head to talk, but keeps at her task.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
They were off shift at midnight. Luckily, I never have that problem.\
Kishen looks concerned.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
Did you sleep?\
He steps forward and clumsily picks up and a cup or two, trying to help.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
I went to bed right after your song. I was dancing along and that took the wind right out of my sails.\
She hols the garbage bag out for Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI (CONT’D)\
Throw that in here.\
He obliges.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I didn’t really want to do all of that.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Well you were very nice to play along. It almost looked like you were enjoying the spotlight by the end of the song.\
She gives him a sly look. He shies away.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Singing and acting are stupid. Any idiot can do that stuff. Speaking of idiots, where did Sania…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Don’t even begin to talk about your family that way. You’ll break my heart.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(contemptuous)\
Thy’re so fake. All of them.\
She puts the garbage bag down and grabs his shoulders. She’s had enough.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Your Uncle slaved away for years. Your father helped him. In the end we are lucky to live in a house like this, and Sania is lucky to pursue her Bollywood dreams. All little girls dream of acting. Your uncle has made her dreams almost come true. You have everything you need to succeed right here - all around you.\
Kishen melts in her hands.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(vulnerable)\
I don’t need any of this.\
Daadhi Ji gives him a pitying look and pinches his chin. He flinches.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
That’s odd. I’ve never seen you do your own laundry. And I don’t even think you know how to begin cleaning your room. You enjoy the perks of this life too. Maybe not as much as your cousin, but you should still be grateful.\
Danny enters the foyer wearing pajamas and looking hungover. He’s holding a carton of orange juice. He takes a swig out of it and winks at Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Morning movie star.\
He bends low and touches Daadhi Ji’s feet to show his respect. She is taken aback and rubs the hair on his head to return the kindness.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(broken English)\
Live a long life, nice boy. \
She points a finger at Kishen and then at Danny.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Friends.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Working on it.\
He nods. Daadhi Ji is content and goes back to cleaning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I… I don’t like being fake. Last night was fake. People laughed and enjoyed it because they thought I was kidding myself. I know better. I’m not a fool.\
Kishen bites his lip. He’s not used to taking a stand. Danny digests what he’s just heard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Alright man. You’re cool… normal. I was trying to show you a good time last night, but you didn’t like it. Noted. Still think you’re cool. I won’t get you into that kinda thing again.\
He extends a hand. Kishen hesistates and then shakes it.
Guru Seti heads down the stairs groaning and wearing a fuzzy bathrobe. An attendant follows him with a tower and parasol. They’re heading for the outdoor pool.
The doorbell rings. Kishen looks left and right for an attendant to answer it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(calls over)\
You live here. You can get it.\
He heads over and opens the door. It’s CD. She’s in civilian clothes for once.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Hey man.\
She walks in past him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I had to leave at the tables here. You people don’t know how to stop enjoying yourselves in a timely fashion.\
She stops when she sees Danny\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Ah sh…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Hey.\
He combs his hair free from any hint of Daadhi Ji’s tousling.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Just here for some things. Don’t want to end up in a music routine by accident. That seems to happen around here.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(laughs)\
I’ve learned my lesson.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. KITCHEN - DAY\
Danny and Kishen trail her into the kitchen. There are several tables folded and leaning against a counter.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Your uncle’s asked me to do half the night shifts for the next month. I’m guessing you won’t be around.\
She isn’t pleased. Danny’s wheels are turning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It was his idea. I didn’t really have a choice. I’m sorry.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Wait, so the two coolest people in this circus are friends?\
Kishen quickly jumps in.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
We work together…\
CD has a lifted a table and is holding it under her arm now.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Yeah, we’re friends.\
She smiles at Kishen, who blushes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
OK. Out of my way.\
They shuffle aside.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You should let us help you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(behind her back)\
I’m parked out front.\
INT. FOYER - DAY
Kishen and Danny walk out of the kitchen holding a table each. They observe Auntie Vandana come down the stairs, on the lookout. She spots Daadhi Ji, still cleaning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
(Hindi)\
Daadhi Ji. Have you seen Guru Seti?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Who?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
(Embarassed)\
The famous man from last night. He’s… fat.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
Oh. He went for the pool. He didn’t look to be in the best of moods though.\
That doesn’t deter. Vandana trots off in the direction of the pointing finger. She stops mid-stride.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
(To herself)\
I need my bathing suit.\
She rushes back up the stairs. Kishen and Danny continue on outside.
EXT. DRIVEWAY - DAY
CD is crouched in the back of her Dad’s panel van. Kishen and Danny take turns handing her tables.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Two jobs eh? Do you ever have fun?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I’m having fun right now. Does this not exhilarate you?\
She yanks on Danny’s table as he hands it over. He stumbles to regain his balance.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Not really. But listen. I’ve had enough for the cocktail crowd for now. You two are the only reasonable people I’ve come into contact with since I landed at the airport. Show me how the peasants hang.\
CD is about to fire back. Danny feigns the pose of a boxer with his fists up. That throws her off.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Kidding.\
He mimics a few jabs and he bobs on his feet. CD turns to Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Do you wanna hang too? Are you being held hostage? Blink twice for yes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Eagerly)\
Yeah, I mean, if you want to. Hang, I mean.\
He blinks awkwardly.
INT. FOYER - DAY
They return for the last of the tables. CD stops Danny before he can pick up the last one.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(Devious)\
Alright. We can hang. But the van only has 2 seats. You’ll have to keep the tables company in the back.\
Danny picks up the table anyway.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
As long as I can help myself to what’s in that tupperware I spotted.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Those are two days old.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
My funeral.\
More and more people walk past them in bathing suits in search of Guru Seti. They leave.
INT. PANEL VAN - TRAVELING
CD is driving with Kishen sits in the passenger seats.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I realized we’ve never hung out before.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Yeah. It’s nice. We should do it more often.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
We’ve only driven half a mile in my Dad’s van…\
(laughs)\
But OK.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Just try not to let my uncle work you to death.\
Danny’s hand rises from behind and holds a tupperware of stales sweets up between them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (O.C.)\
Hungry?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Comfortable back there?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
For this one movie, I had to wear a fat suit in the Mumbai summer for a week. I’ve handled adversity before.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
What do you even want to do after we drop these tables off?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Did I mention I have money. Anything. What’s really fun and stupid that you would never waste your own cash on?\
CD thinks, and then smiles.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. CARNIVAL RING - DAY\
The three of them are wearing Sumo suits. CD is elevated and looking down at the other two.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Hold him down.\
Danny is lying down and facing up with mock dread in his eyes. Kishen is sitting with his legs overtop of Danny’s inflated arms.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I’m ready to meet my maker.\
CD jumps and crushes him. They both laugh. Kishen can only muster a smile. He watches them warm up to each other with hesitation.
INT. FAST FOOD RESTAURANT - DAY
CD, Danny and Kishen have been served their food already. It sits half eaten on the crowded table they’re sharing. CD and Danny are laughing at a previously told joke. Kishen has his laptop out. He’s not paying attention to the conversation.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I must’ve lost 10 pounds that week.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
That’s probably why I kicked your ass.\
She pinches his bicep. He flinches. They both laugh.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What does CD stand for anyway?\
He goes for a swig of soda. CD hesitates.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(under her breath)\
Cakranemi.\
Danny almost chokes on his soda. CD looks at him resentfully.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That was worth the…\
Kishen is finished wha he was doing for and interrupts.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
CD look at this.\
CD and Danny are startled. They can almost forget he’s there sometimes. Kishen turns hid laptop screen around. It is the photo he took of CD smoking the night before. He has touched it up and made it look amazing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s amazing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
That’s amazing.\
Dany turns to CD.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You smoke?\
CD is still mesmerized by the photo.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I smoke.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
K.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Kishen that’s awesome. Do you think you could get me some prints. I’ll pay you for them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Pay him? Isn’t he your friend.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
If your friend’s an artist, you help them. You buy their art.\
She looks back at Kishen. He couldn’t be happier.\
KISHEN\
That’s kind but I’m not going anywhere.\
Danny furrows his brow.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What kind of a things is that to say buddy?\
Kishen pauses and thinks before he replies. He’s bubbling to the brim, rather unexpectedly.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I feel like I could do all these great things. Then I remember I’m surrounded by people who just think I’m an inconvenience. Fake people. I don’t think I’ll ever thrive as an artist with them around. Or, me around them.\
He bites his lip. Perhaps he shouldn’t have spoken up. CD looks concerned.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I may rag on about them Kish, but they’re still your family. Your vain, materialistic, obnoxious family. But still…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Forget it.\
There is an awkward silence. Danny is on his phone, texting someone. CD breaks it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I’m working night shift in 6 hours. Need a nap.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Kishen, can we hang out here for a while. I’m meeting a producer who’s in town. We can take a cab home.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Yeah that’s fine.\
CD gets up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Don’t lose that thing. \
CD taps the (now closed) laptop.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD (CONT’D)\
It may be valuable someday.\
Kishen watches her walk away. Danny catches him staring. He quickly opens his laptop again and gets back to work.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>30 MINUTES LATER - DUSK\
The sun is setting and the restaurant’s clientele is thinning out. Kishen is still buried in his laptop with Danny slouches with a foot up on an empty chair. They’re ordered coffees to keep up their pretence for hanging around.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
He’s almost here.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(distracted)\
Awesome.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
And I lied.\
That gets Kishen’s attention.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
He’s coming to meet you, not me.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Wait what? I told you I don’t like…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I doesn’t involve anything like yesterday. Well, it does but…\
The door chimes as Mike Roy walks in. He already knows where the boys are seated and heads over. He’s wearing a nice suit and looks ridiculously conspicuous. Kishen recognizes him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(under his breath)\
Oh no.\
Mike sits down at the seat across from Kishen, which Danny has just vacated.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I really believe you two have some… common interests. I’ll leave you alone for a few. Don’t worry, I’m right over there, watching your back.\
Danny taps Kishen’s shoulder and walks away. It doesn’t give Kishen any solace.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
My apologies for the James Bond routine. \
He shoots a sly smile.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY (CONT’D)\
It’s just how people like me have to conduct their affairs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It’s OK…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I’ve seen your website. You take great photos. The subject matter isn’t my thing, but you have a - curiosity - that I’m looking for.\
Kishen looks back at Danny, who is watching from afar. Danny waves.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
No real use in being mad at Danny. I’m like a father figure to him. He confides in me. I like to think I foster that trust in people…\
Kishen’s posture is defensive now.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
So this is about my photography? What about it?\
Mike Roy smiles and pauses. It sucks the air out of the room.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I wasn’t finished.\
Kishen doesn’t pester anymore. He’s intimidated.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I have a vested interest in Danny’s success, just like I did your father’s. People who work with me tend to make it far in their pursuits. That’s because I push… To make things turn out the right way. If tragedy hadn’t struck I’m sure your father would be doing quite well for himself by now.\
Mike Roy starts fiddling with the salt and pepper shakers on the table.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Your uncle, on the other hand, owes me a lot of money. Like I said before, we were all partners for a time. I gave him what he needed to get started. I was at the opening of his first flooring store. It was tiny compared to any one of his stores now. You were still with your parents then.\
Mike Roy positions the salt shaker forward. He then shifts the pepper shaker from side to side. It evokes the movement of chess pieces.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I’m not going to say sorry like everyone else. That’s silly… And fake. Instead, I’m going to give you an opportunity.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You want me to be a spy.\
Mike Roy waits for more.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(beat)\
You want me to take pictures for you.\
His deduction helps his posture inch back into the realm of dignity.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Smart. Yes. Take pictures Kishen. If you find something you think I’d like - you’re a smart kid. I think you can figure out what I’d like to see - If you find something I’d want, then we can talk about rewards.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
What kind of rewards?\
Mike Roy unclenches the pepper shaker and sits back.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Money. Work. An undying advocate for your art.\
Kishen has hope in his eyes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Do you want to make your own way in this world?\
He stares at Kishen. Kishen stares back, weighing the scales.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. TAXI - NIGHT\
Kishen and Danny are getting driven home. The mood is sombre, suggesting Kishen accepted the offer. Danny grabs him gently by the back of the neck.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Don’t worry. In a little while you won’t remember this life.\
Kishen gets a text. It’s from Sania. It reads “I need you. Now.”\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MANSION FOYER - NIGHT\
Guru Seti sits at a piano while Sania is on an elevated stage. She is singing the harmonic scale, warming her voice. There isn’t much talent on display. Auntie Mistry and Auntie Vandana sit spectating. Mistry is staring at Sania while Vandana is staring at Guru.
Kishen walks in alone.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
There you are. Sania needs some glamour shots.\
Sania hits a bad high note and Kishen makes a face.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Yeah. Sure. Glamour shots.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNITE MISTRY\
(To Auntie Vandana)\
She’s so dedicated. Matt’s family is going to get her film distribution in China. With subtitles, but so be it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Isn’t is a bit strange to be marrying a Chinese family.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
Nonsense. She and Matt were made for each other. Besides, China is really hot right not. It’s the right trend to be on.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
Well you certainly have the right talent for the occasion.\
Auntie Vandana stares at Guru Seti and swoons.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE MISTRY\
Behave Vandana. He’s married.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
I don’t mind at all.\
On stage, Sania is halfway through a verse and stops mid-stanza.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
I think you’re a bit behind on piano.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
You do know I’ve won 3 BLANK awards and have been nominated for 6 more.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
I just feel you aren’t doing my vocals justice.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
You know Sania, I have an idea. Your wedding night should be a night of celebration. I think having you practise every night for 2 hours for the next week isn’t the best use of your time on such a momentous occasion.\
Sania is deterred by Guru’s pessimism.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
Maybe you’re right. I should really rest my voice for the film.\
She sees Kishen has arrived.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA (CONT’D)\
Ah. But can you hang tight while I get some photos of us rehearsing?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
(unenthusiastic)\
Sure. I’m here.\
Sania waves Kishen over. He puts his camera strap over his shoulder and takes off the lens cap with a sigh.
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. TALK SHOW SET - DAY\
An older Kishen sits on a prop filled set. He looks happy. The host, TROY, straightens his tie as the show comes back from commercial and the audience claps on cue.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>TROY\
Welcome back. We’re talking to Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist Kishen Mistry. Having fun?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It beats a tent in Burundi.\
The audience laughs. TROY laughs just a little too hard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>TORY\
What motivates you to get out of be every morning?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Well Troy, that’d have to be coffee.\
Ridiculous laughter again. It doesn’t phase Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Seriously though, I wouldn’t be here without my lovely wife. She’s here today…\
The camera cuts to her seated in the front row, with adoration in her eyes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN (CONT’D)\
And she’s my rock.\
She blows him a kiss. The crowd awes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>TROY\
Well if that didn’t win you some points I don’t know what will.\
Hold for laughter.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>TROY (CONT’D)\
Tell us what advice you have for young artists trying to make it today?\
Kishen thinks for a second, then looks into the camera. His face is serious.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Kids, if you get an opportunity, a real opportunity, I don’t care if you think it’s intimidating, if you think it’s beneath you. When you get an opportunity, you take it! You can figure out how the hell you’re actually going to go through with it afterwards.\
The crowd laughs again. Kishen stays serious for a moment longer before he finally breaks too.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MOVIE ROOM - DAY\
A classic, theme consistent, Bollywood film plays on the projector. Danny is watching it on the couch with a mixed drink in hand. Kishen walks in, wearing much sharper clothing than he normally does. He looks slightly uncomfortable.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Now that’s what I’m talking about.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
People are going to notice something’s different about me.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s the thing: people didn’t notice you at all before. Most are just going to wonder where the hell this cool guy came from. For the rest, we’ll blame it on my nurturing influence.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(sarcasm)\
That makes me feel a lot better.\
Danny burps from his drink.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You never saw that. Now, you’re already observant. You’re already stealthy. What you need to learn quickly is how to be cunning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Cunning.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Sounds sexy, doesn’t it? Get people talking about themselves. Compliment them, even at your own expense. People love to talk about themselves, especially those people.\
Danny points up the stairs where we can faintly hear music.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (CONT’D)\
They’ll let things slip. They call it gossip. Mike calls it intelligence. That makes our whole outfit sounds cooler actually.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
How do I know they’re telling the truth?\
Danny stands up and walks towards Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Everyone has their own take on how things go down. You ask enough people, and you can glue together the scraps to figure out what’s really happening. I’m actually jealous of you. You’ve got the perfect cover to be any place in this mansion, at any time.\
Danny grabs Kishen’s shoulders.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You heard what Mike said. You’re starting out small here. These are just your fake family and their fake friends. As you get better, you can infiltrate anywhere. You can be as powerful as you want to be.\
Danny straightens Kishen’s tie and brushes off his shoulders.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MANSION FOYER - NIGHT\
The foyer is already full of guests. The party has a mildly offensive Chinese theme, in honour of guests yet to arrive. Kishen is taking photographs of the current guests. Rishi is up at the DJ booth with Turntable. Sania is in conversation with Guru Seti. Auntie Mistry is tucked in the corner, clearly having a quarrel with Uncle Mistry. Kishen spots CD walk in and wavers her over. She’s wearing dressy jeans and a blouse, with sneakers to bring things down a notch.
She looks at Kishen’s get-up as she approaches.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
We must’ve both entered the twilight zone.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(inadvertently blunt)\
What are you doing here if you’re not working?\
CD can’t believe it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Uhm… I can have a live too. Danny invited me. I figured since we’re all buddies it could be fun. Excuse me, all of a sudden I need a smoke.\
She walks away. Kishen thinks about following her, but Danny shows up from the other direction and gets his attention.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You see that lady by the speakers?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(distracted)\
Auntie Vandana. What about her?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (CONT’D)\
She’s obsessed with Guru Seti. \
Kishen gives Danny an annoyed look. He goes back to photographing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
That’s so obvious. Even I noticed that. She almost has to wipe the drool off her chin.\
Danny gets between Kishen and his field of view.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
OK that’s great, but what are you going to do about it? \
Kishen doesn’t have an answer.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Other people are just going to whisper these things. You have to capitalize on it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
And how do I do that?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Keep an eye on them. When one of them sneaks off, take note. When both of them are nowhere in sight, go find them. I’ll bet money that you won’t be disappointed.\
The DJ abruptly stops the music and taps on the mic. He now has everyone’s attention. Kishen takes the moment to slip away.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DJ TURNTABLE\
(obnoxious)\
Attention 24 hour party people, I’ve just received word that the man of the evening has just arrived outside.\
CD steps back into the party and files in beside Danny.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
What did I miss?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I think the groom’s here.\
He mockingly pinches his nose after smelling her.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (CONT’D)\
I don’t need to guess where you were.\
She punches his shoulder. He winces.
In a flurry, dancers wearing traditional Chinese attire like up along a red carpet stretching from the entrance doors to the dance floor. A Chinese dragon puppet bursts through the and music begin to play.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
This is actually kind of nice. Change of pace.\
He bobs his head and glances at CD for approval. She seems skeptical.
Behind the dragon, a Chinese family walks in. There’s Matt, 27, the groom. In front of him are his MOTHER and father, LEE, 49. They appear slightly shell shocked from the reception. Suddenly, the song and dance goes from different to offensive.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Oh God. I was wrong. I was so wrong.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(shaking head)\
Everything about this is wrong.\
The Lee and his wife reach the centre of the dance floor, where Sania and her parents are waiting with plastered smiles. The music stops.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
On behalf of our large and notable group of family and friends I’d like to invite Matt and his loving family into our home. It’s an honour that this marriage will unite our two families and (hopefully) corporate entities.\
There are a few laughs from friends, but no one is sure if he’s joking or actually being serious. Auntie Mistry nudges her husband aside and takes the reins.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNITE MISTRY\
Sania tells us she has loved Matt from the moment she first laid eyes on him. I’m sure it was the same for our handsome groom.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
I…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
It was the same for Matt, I can assure you. You have raised a beautiful daughter.\
Danny leans in whisper to CD.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
How did they find each other?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
They didn’t. Their parents did. Now you see how ridiculous this all is?\
Danny thinks hard for a second, scraping his memory. Then, he shrugs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Actually, I’ve been to weirder weddings.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(beat)\
Furries?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You’ve always struck me like the furry type.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Erm…\
The DJ fires up the dance mix once again.
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SONG: A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN\
Sania and Matt sing a cringeworthy but catchy song about their manufactured wedding plans. In the background, Kishen is carefully stalking Guru Seti, Auntie Vandana, and other disreputable folks.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MANSION FOYER - NIGHT\
The song now over, Matt is getting congratulatory pats on the back from extras. Rishi busts through the crowd and gives him the biggest slap of all. Matt winces.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
Not bad Indian dancing from a Chinese boy!\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
Thanks…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
How long was the flight over? Is it hard speaking English for the first time?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
(in perfect English)\
I went to school at U of C so it’s nothing at all.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
Well listen, you’re really lucky to be with Sania…\
Danny buds in.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Matt! Such an honour. Those were great moves. I must admit you’ve got a natural talent for this. You might put me out of a job.\
Matt, relieved to be free of Rishi, smiles.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
You’re a dancer.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
An actor but in this industry you usually are both. And a singer. And a songwriter if the plot calls for it. Here, let’s have a toast…\
Danny taps Sania on the shoulder, receiving her own congratulations, and takes glasses of champagne from an attendant to pass around. Danny raises his glass to take the lead.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
To Matt and Sania. May two hearts…\
He looks them both in the eyes, one at a time. Vipti is amongst the crowd listening as well. She sways a little, already tipsy.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (CONT’D)\
(emphasized)\
And two worlds unite.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>VIPTI\
(obnoxious)\
Woo!\
They all drink. Danny turns to speak to Sania directly.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Are you nervous? Anyone in your situation would be.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SANIA\
(forced)\
Are you kidding? This is the best day of my life. Or… The best until tomorrow I mean. And then until the day after that.\
She drinks heavily from her glass.
Rishi is giving Sania a look from across the room. She notices and breaks her gaze only after lingering for a moment. Danny takes note and slips away.\
INT. MANSION - READING ROOM - NIGHT\
Kishen, surrounded by bookcases, peers out of the window. On an adjacent balcony, Guru Seti and Auntie Vandana are sharing a private moment. Auntie Vandana leans in to grope Guru Seti. He slides away from her grasp in a gesture that would have been transparently rejection to anyone else. Auntie Vandana, however, doesn’t relent. Kishen snaps away.
The door to the reading room creaks open. Kishen jumps. It’s only Danny.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(whispering)\
Sorry. Do we have anything yet?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
She’s putting the moves on him but he’s practically a saint. I have it all captured.\
Kishen pulls closed the window share and starts to pull up the photos. Danny is texting someone with his head down.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(disinterested)\
That’s… not really a story.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It may have some *HYPERLINK “scrivcmt://0C265D82-DB96-443D-BD7E-06F6FE6F3954”promise.\
Danny starts walking back towards the door, head still buried in his phone. He looks up at the most opportune time to see a shadow sneaking up the staircase from downstairs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Now this looks promising.\
Kishen stops checking his pictures and comes over to follow Danny’s gaze. The shadow comes into the light to reveal Rishi, stealthily sneaking towards Sania’s open bedroom door. He steps inside and their view is blocked.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s a shame…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MANSION - UPSTAIRS HALLWAY - NIGHT\
Kishen looks both walls to make sure the hall is empty. He steps out and walks around the landing until he can get a clearer view into the room. Rishi and Sania are deep in discussion just past the doorway. There is a sofa in front of Kishen. He ducks down to use it as cover. He lies prone and points the camera out from the side, lens through the railing and pointing square at the secret rendezvous.
Through the lens, Rishi takes a long look out of the door to make sure the coast is clear. Kishen snaps. Rishi turns back, takes Sania in his arms and kisses her. She kisses back. Kishen snaps again. Rishi, in mid-embrace, closes the bedroom door behind him.
Kishen gets off the floor and looks at Danny.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(mouthing the words)\
Oh my god.\
Kishen has a troubled expression. He doesn’t know whether this is quite the victory he wanted.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. MANSION - NIGHT\
Kishen is pacing back and forth while CD sits mulling while smoking a cigarette.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(chuckle)\
Just when I thought your family was boring and predictable.\
Kishen keeps pacing, not making eye contact.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
What the hell should I do?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(quizical)\
What were you doing up there anyway?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(deadpan)\
I was spying on Guru Seti.\
CD drops her cigarette away in surprise.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(beat)\
And that’s less interesting than the Sania thing because…?\
Kishen stops and makes eye contact with CD.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(sincere)\
I’m caught up in some deep shit. You can’t tell anyone about this. I couldn’t go to my daadhi with this. You’re the only other person under this roof that I trust.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I’m nt telling anyone but I can’t help you if I don’t know what the endgame is here. Or better yet how the hell this all started?\
Kishen doesn’t respond immediately. It seems like he’s making up his own mind on how to proceed.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
This family is so fake and I finally have a chance to let the whole rotted mansion fall in on itself.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(confused)\
Don’t forget that you live here too.\
(beat)\
And your daadhi.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m not going to be stupid about it. I… Just need more time to get my head straight.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Kishen, don’t be rash. If you just go and show this to people, you’re going to break a lot of hearts. Maybe your Uncle and Aunt know about all of this… As twisted as that sounds. It’s not like this whole affair screams ‘genuine.’ The best thing to do is talk to your cousin. Ask her what’s going on.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(sarcastic)\
And how do you think she’ll react to that? Do you think she’ll be as wise and collected as she usually is.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You just need to be careful. A lot of people - who may be idiots, but aren’t necessarily evil - have something at stake in this wedding.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(angry)\
When did you start caring about all of them? When you started wearing cocktail dresses and getting hit on by a movie star?\
CD gets in Kishen’s face. He’s startled.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(fuming)\
Don’t you ever think you have me figured out. \
Kishen takes a step back, not knowing what else to say.
CD’s mad. Before she storms off she pauses.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Try and think for a minute, before you hurt someone else too.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MOVIE ROOM - DAY\
Kishen is looking at printed photos of yesterday’s stakeouts of Guru Seti and Sania. He picks up the DVD case of the old Indian movie that was playing in the previous movie room scene. He places the photos in the case and hides it on the shelf. Another case catches his eye. It’s one of Danny’s B movies with his cheesy grin on it. Kishen picks it up and inserts it into the player.
MONTAGE:
Kishen watches Danny’s movie, studying his mannerisms. He then dresses himself in his fancy clothes and mimics Danny’s charm in his bathroom mirror.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. NIGHTCLUB BATHROOM - NIGHT\
Kishen is tidying himself up for a final time before entering the party outside. He has his camera around his neck now. Danny walks into the bathroom.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
There you are!\
He walks up to Kishen, eyeing the urinals and stalls to make sure they’re alone.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(mimicking Danny)\
Here I am.\
Danny stops short of Kishen, inspecting his altered outfit and mannerisms.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Did you hit your head? Have to talked to Mike Roy yet?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I think there’s more to uncover here. We may be at the short end of a long rope.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What? One step at a time. Give Mike the goodies and we can work or more after that.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Soon enough. The party’s starting soon. They’ll be needing me.\
He pats Danny on his arm and walks past him, out the door. Danny looks utterly confused.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. NIGHTCLUB LOUNGE - NIGHT\
The nightclub is sparsely populated. The VIP section has been closed to the public for this event. A banner above reads “Last Night As A Free Man.”
Matt and Lee are sitting at a booth with some more of the Chinese delegation. Matt is trying to enjoy himself but his entourage is cramping his style. They look out of place. A couple of other booths are sprinkled with people from Sania’s side of the family, trying desperately to make the place lively. Kishen walks up to the main booth.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Say cheese you party animals!\
He takes a picture. Matt is the only one attempting to smile. Danny slides in beside Matt at the table.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
My man, your Dad isn’t supposed to be at your bachelor party.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
He wanted to be here.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(beat)\
That’s weird… But I’ve seen weirder.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
Oh, I’ve heard of those parties too.\
Danny gives him a look. Rishi jogs up the stairs, looking ready to get the party started.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
There he is! The bar is yours. What’ll you have?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
(awkward)\
Do you have any wine coolers?\
Rishi freezes and stares at him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
(beat)\
Have some vodka. It’s good for the nerves.\
Rishi signals and some bottles are brought over.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
To Big Willie. The luckiest man in the room.\
Everyone drinks. Rishi pours Matt a second shot and no one else.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
It’s your last night of freedom. Drink up!\
Matt obliges. Lee cheers his son, unconcerned\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MATT\
Woo. This stuff is strong.\
Kishen is watching the scene unfold, when he spots a famous couple, DAN BLANK and LILY DOE sitting together on the ground floor of the club. They’re seated in a smaller VIP section adjacent to the main dance floor. He squints until he recognizes who they are. He has a plan. He gets Danny’s attention, who leaves the booth and comes over.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
There’s Dan Blank. He’s with Lily Doe.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What are they going at this tacky place?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(devious)\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>It’s full of brown people who won’t recognize them.\
Kishen heads down the stairs without another word. Danny is delayed in following him. Kishen walks through the dance floor without regard for anyone around him, his eyes squarely on the couple. Danny tries to keep up, at a distance.
Kishen reaches the booth and sits down across from the couple. He startles them, especially with this camera on the table.
He takes the strap off his shoulder and places the camera facing away from the couple.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Don’t worry it’s off. I’m awfully sorry for interrupting\
(To Lily)\
I’m a big fan of his. When the rumours came out that you two were together I was ecstatic.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LILY\
(standoffish)\
We’re just trying to have enjoy ourselves.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
And you picked Rishi’s. Not your usual fan base hanging around here. Good choice. But you guys give your fame too little credit.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAN\
If you’re a paparazzo, why don’t you just take a pic and move on.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Forgive me. I’m new at this. I thought ‘I could take their pic, blow their cover, and they’ll have to scurry out of here in sunglasses like they have to everywhere else. Or, I could convince them to give each other a nice kiss, frame a nice shot, and give them a chance to come out to Hollywood in a respectable manner.’ How does that sound?\
The couple pause for a moment. Then, Dan leans in and gives Lily a soulful kiss on the lips. Kishen takes his cue and gets the shot.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’ll do the photo justice. Enjoy your evening.\
Kishen gets up and walks back towards the bachelor party, right past Danny who’s frozen in surprise. He snaps out of it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(To Kishen’s back)\
Dude, how in the world did you pull that off?\
Kishen smiles to himself as they climb the stairs. At the top, Rishi is searching for Kishen with two nearly empty bottles of vodka in each hand.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
(To Kishen)\
There you are.\
(To Matt)\
Alright Big Willie. We’ve got a great surprise in store for you.\
Dancers come out to a gawdy soundtrack and surround Matt. He looks uncomfortable with all the groping. Rishi claps at the show and then beckons to Kishen\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
Make sure you get all of this! He’s too drunk to remember a thing otherwise!\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SONG: THE ITEM SONG\
Dancers do their things while Matt drunkenly ogles them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. NIGHTCLUB LOUNGE - NIGHT\
As the song is wrapping up, Kishen watches Lee slink away from the party. With everyone still enthralled in the show and dance, Kishen follows him. Lee takes the stairs down and slides past a bouncer into a back room that Kishen is familiar with.
Kishen wants to know more so he makes a hasty call. He waits for a minute, then walks up to the doorman.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m Kishen. Here to see Mike Roy. He’ll know what for.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DOORMAN\
He’s busy.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
This is an urgent matter.\
(taps camera)\
I don’t want to be there when he finds out you let an exclusive go stale.\
The doorman gives in. He opens the way to the backroom but grabs Kishen by the collar as they go inside.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DOORMAN\
Stay with me until I say so.\
Kishen does’t object. They walk past a watered down gang of hustlers. It must be a slow night because half the club is bought out. Mike Roy is sitting at his usual booth. Lee is sitting across from him and they are in a heated exchange.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
(muffled)\
Who the hell…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
(muffled)\
You’ll regret this…\
Kishen snaps a silent shot of the two conversing just in time. Lee gets up and storms off back the way he came. On his way out he notices Kishen tucked in behind the bouncer. He stares long and wonders how the hell this scrawny kid is involved with these goons.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DOORMAN\
Your turn.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Er…\
Kishen is pushed into the seat across from Mike Roy, who is still fuming from the previous conversation.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
Kid. This better be good.\
Kishen hadn’t thought this all the way through.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Er… I have the first photos of Dan Blank and Jill Doe kissing in public. Here take a look.\
It’s not what mike was expecting but he can’t deny it’s a juicy scoop.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
These are great. Good work.\
(To the doorman)\
Get the kid something Frank.\
The doorman, Frank, leaves them unsupervised.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
You’re a natural at this. Not to state the obvious, but time is against us with this wedding business. I need you to deliver on that piece for me if this arrangement is going to have any… Longevity.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m still working on it. I needed to do something removed from me to get started. It’ll be easy to get what you need now.\
Frank is back. He drops a fat stack of money on the table, next to Kishen’s camera.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MIKE ROY\
I hope so. There’s much more where that came from.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. NIGHTCLUB - NIGHT\
Kishen leaves the backroom, patting the cash tucked into his camera bag. Up above, Danny watches from the railing with suspicion in his eyes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. FLOORING STORE - DAY\
Danny walks in the front door to see CD stacking up a display of hardwood tiles. It’s still early in the morning so customers are sparse.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
So this is where you’ve been hiding out.\
CD is initially surprised to see Danny, but then goes back to being ticked off as she continues stacking tiles.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Some of us still have to work an honest living in between all the partying.\
Danny reaches down to pick up a tile.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Let me help. Where does this go?\
She takes the tile from his hands and stocks it herself.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Wouldn’t want you to hurt herself. I’ll work. You can talk.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Fair. Kishen. What’s up with him? You’re the closest thing to a friend he has, as far as I can figure out. Has he always been so…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Alien?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(beat)\
Very apt analysis.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
He’s been through some shit. I try not to judge him too harshly. Well, I tried to.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Is that why you weren’t at the bachelor party?\
CD stops working while crouched and looks up at Danny.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I wasn’t at the bachelor party because of gender norms, and their gross. I won’t be at any further parties because of Kishen. He’s turned into an asshole, and at the worst possible time, for his sake.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
What does that mean?\
CD takes the now empty skid of tiles and starts wheeling it back towards the warehouse. Danny starts following her.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Are you still hanging out with him?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
More than ever.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
(sigh)\
Then maybe you can keep him from ruining people’s lives.\
CD reaches the door marked ‘Employees Only’ and hesitates. Danny shoots her some Oscar worthy sincerity.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
He took some photos.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s nothing new.\
Danny can’t resist.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
He took some photos of a family member in a compromising position. And now he’s actually considering exploiting it to hurt them.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s not cool. At all.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
See that’s the first thing. But moreso, he lives with them. Talk about throwing shit into a running fan.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
And you tried to talk him out of it?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I told him to go to Sania with the photos.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Sania… What did Kishen say?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
We’re not speaking anymore. Can you guess?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I can. I’ll try to get a bug in his ear. Maybe my beguiling approach will be more effective.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Were you born this delusional?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Never mind Kishen. You’re coming to the next party, as my guest. I need someone to keep me humble.\
Danny smiles. CD smiles back.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MONTAGE: STALKING LEE\
Kishen uses some of his newly earned money to get a rental car. He also buys a telescopic lens from a high end photography store.
Early in the morning, Kishen drives the rental car out to the hotel that Matt’s side of the family is staying at. He waits for a few hours until Lee emerges from the hotel and enters a hired car. Kishen follows Lee on his errands. He sees him visit many condominium build sites and shake hands with developers.
Kishen returns the rental car and hops on a bus home.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. KISHEN’S SUBURB - DUSK\
Kishen gets off the bus down the street from his home. Unbeknownst to him, a car has been waiting. Kishen starts walking towards the mansion, carrying a heavy backpack holding his camera and laptop.
The car drives up beside him and two goons jump out. Before Kishen knows it he receives a blow to the back of the head from one goon while the other one grabs him backpack. They jump back in the car as Kishen stumbles to the sidewalk from the blow. The car whirs off.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. INDIAN VILLAGE - NIGHT\
Another car whirs off as Kishen is dropped off in the middle of Nowheresville, India. An older Kishen, 30, is left standing wide-eyed in the wake of dust. A hand goes up in the surrounding bustle of people and he is relieved. KARTIK, 37 approaches. He extends a hand to Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KARTIK\
Kartik. You must be the photographer. \
Kishen takes off his camera pack and hands it to KartikMatt. They leave the crowd.
INT. COUNTRY HOME - NIGHT
Kishen is shown into a modest but satisfactory room in Kartik’s abode.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KARTIK\
Settle in. My wife is making dinner. You’ll eat with us tonight. The TV picks up American channels.\
Kishen drops his backpack to the floor and sits on the cot. He looks relieved by his relative comfort.
INT. DINING ROOM - NIGHT
Kishen, Kartik, Kartik’s wife, 32, and son, 9, are eating dinner.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You have a lovely home.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KARTIK\
It’s all due to showing our country to photographers, journalists, explorers. Just like yourself.\
He smiles and Kishen returns in kind.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
When will we go to the Badlands?\
Kartik’s wife stops chewing and looks troubled. Wesley springs to interject.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KARTIK\
The badlands are 20 miles due west of here and are a very bad place to go shooting photographs. If you want to visit the Maoists,= I’ll take you to some smugglers who can be trusted. You should buy a flak jacket and provisions beforehand. It’s not an easy task.\
Kishen looks taken aback. Then he settles back in to eating dinner, looking resigned but content.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
We can talk about it tomorrow.\
EXT. COUNTRY HOME - DAY
The sun is beating down. Kartik’s son plays in the front yard while wets his head from a garden hose. Kishen takes out a photo of his girlfriend and eyes it affectionately. He then puts it away when he notices Wesley isn’t around. He approaches the boy to test his new plan.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Are there poor people in this village?\
The boy nods.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Here’s an American dollar. Take me to see them.\
EXT. VILLAGE SLUM - DAY
The conditions of the village poor are very destitute, but they aren’t in any immediate physical danger. They all eye the foreigner being led into the slum by the richer kid. Kishen takes a look around, seeing possibilities.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(to the boy)\
Tell them I’ll give them each a dollar to let me take some photographs here. They shouldn’t wear their shoes if they have any, and the children should be in the photos.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. KISHEN’S ROOM - NIGHT\
Kishen takes an ice pack from Daadhi and places it on the back of his head. He’s in moderate pain, sitting on his bedside while Daadhi hovers over him worried. She looks like she just woke up.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
(Hindi)\
What happened?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(Hindi)\
I’ve been very busy the last few days.\
Kishen seems to be in a dark place. Daadhi Ji senses it. She caresses his hair.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
You know there’s nothing to can’t tell me about beta.\
Kishen pauses for a moment. He feels like a kid again.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I took some photos… By accident.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Photos of what?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Photos that… If they were to get out… Would be very bad for the family. Very embarrassing.\
Daadhi Ji pulls away.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
And you didn’t delete them?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I thought about it. I wasn’t sure.\
Daadhi Ji smacks Kishen across the face. Tears are welling in his eyes.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Now someone stole them. They took my camera, laptop, everything. Someone has them and may show them to everyone.\
Daadhi Ji grabs her forehead and shakes her head.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
I don’t know when I lost you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
It’s not your fault Daadhi Ji. It’s all me and that’s OK.\
Daadhi Ji grabs Kishen by the shoulders.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
You have to figure out a way to get those photos back.\
Kishen doesn’t respond. She shakes him hard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DAADHI JI\
Do you hear me?\
Kishen still doesn’t respond but his eyes betray him. He is far away now.
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MOVIE ROOM - DAY\
Danny is sitting, watching a newer release and stuffing his face full of popcorn. A joke is made and he laughed obnoxiously. Kishen walks in, exasperated.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I should have known you were in here.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I can’t thank you enough for showing me this place. It’s a good brake from the weirdos.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I was robbed last night. Right down the street. They took my camera and all the photos.\
Danny sits up and puts the popcorn down.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Holy smokes. Are you OK? I still count four limbs at least.
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
We need to go see Mike. I don’t have the photos anymore. I can’t give him what he wants. We have to find out who took my camera…\
Danny is settling down as Kishen speaks. His look of manufactured melts back to leave a colder appearance.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(cold)\
It was probably Mike who sent those goons, you know.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(startled)\
What?\
Danny gets up and walks towards Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
That’s what happens when you drag your feet. I saw you leave the backroom at the party. Then I spoke with Mike after. He didn’t seem to pleased with you. You don’t dick around with organized criminals Kishen.\
Kishen takes a step back and eyes the DVD shelf.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
How did he know that I even had the photos he wanted?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
(bemused)\
How do you think? I told him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(incredulous)\
You told him?\
Danny takes another step towards Kishen.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
I thought you were smart. Why the hell wouldn’t I? I introduced you two. I work for him. You had something he wanted.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Friendship, maybe?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
You don’t have any friends Kishen. Don’t sweat it - neither do I. We’re just not those kinds of people. I’m sorry you only realizing this now, and under these circumstances, but the sooner you wise up, the better you’ll do in this business.\
Kishen shoves Danny and runs up the stairs. He gets to the top and heads to the entrance. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. MISTRY MANSION - DAY\
Outside, he is looking through his phone contacts for someone, anyone to call, but draws a blank.
A short black limo pulls up along the giant curved driveway. The passenger side window rolls down and Kishen is left facing a stern looking Chinese man.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CHINESE MAN\
You need to come with us.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. LEE’S HOTEL ROOM - DAY\
The room is like something you might imagine to be the inside of a suite at the Shangri-La. Kishen is sitting across from Lee at an in-suite tea table. They are being served freshly brewed tea. Lee has a fake smile on for the server’s sake.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
It’s nice to be reminded of home when away.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(mutters)\
I was at home until your car came by…\
The server leaves and Lee gets serious.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
What relationship would a wedding photographer have with an organized criminal?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Mike needs photographers too, just not for weddings.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
So you would say you are associates?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
No, fuck that guy. He just robbed me for all of my equipment and conned me out of a payday.\
Lee laughs and then regains his composure.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
That’s not what I was expecting to hear. So it seems we have a newly forged common enemy. And we’re about to be related too. Isn’t that just the best coincidence?\
Kishen isn’t fazed by the camaraderie.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You know this honestly this works both ways future uncle. What’s your angle with Mike? And with every condominium going up in town.\
Lee raises an eyebrow but that’s all Kishen is getting for dropping that bomb.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
You know a lot for a photographer. I’m in the business of buying property. We have a lot of money in China, but China is a place where a lot of money can turn into no money really quickly if you piss off the wrong people.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
So you’re buying assets here to bring it over. And once Matt is married to a Canadian, your family’s money will become Canadian money.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
(sarcastic)\
You’ve cracked the case.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Not quite. I don’t know what you’re after from Mike Roy. He doesn’t own any condo buildings last I checked.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
He’s got the majority stake in Rishi’s nightclub. It’s a slimy spot taking up a potentially prime
condo site.\
Kishen thinks long and hard.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’ve read about something.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
… Which is?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
In order to raise government funds, properties that are impounded by the police are often put up for auction here, going to the highest bidder.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
(scoffs)\
I know all about that.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I assumed you did. Properties can impounded due to defaulted mortgages, bankruptcies, or criminal offences. Criminal offences like… Guns and cocaine lying in plain sight in the backroom of a nightclub.\
Lee’s eyes light up. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
An anonymous tip could go a long way.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
That’s quite the tip nephew. If that pans out you’ll be rewarded…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Nonsense. We’re going to be family. Besides, there’s someone who needs to go down with them though. For your nephew’s sake.\
Lee is throughly impressed with this kid’s politicking.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>LEE\
And who may that be?\
Kishen smiles deviously.
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>MONTAGE: GETTING THE NEWS\
Uncle Mistry is sitting in the mansion foyer and the phone rings. We see that it is Mike Roy on the other end of the line, with Danny sitting across from his in support. Uncle Mistry’s expression changes from hesitant to shocked to angry to vengeful as he gets the news of Sania’s infidelity and the blackmail that currently hangs over him.
Meanwhile, Kishen scrambles into the house and down to the movie room. Danny has left long ago. to retrieve the classic movie DVD case. Inside he finds the photos of Sania and Rishi, as well as those of Guru Seti and Auntie Vandana. He takes a tally of his loot and runs off.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>EXT. MISTRY MANSION - POOLSIDE - DAY\
Guru Seti sits up in a beach chair, looking like his mid-day dip has been utterly ruined. Kishen stand above him, wearing sunglasses.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
You’re a baseless scroundrel!\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
You Indians really do have a British flare for insults.\
Guru sinks once he realizes he isn’t as intimidating as he hoped.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
I’m a family man. That woman is insatiable. Your uncle paid me a lot of money to be here. This wasn’t worth it.\
Guru wipes away tears. Kishen’s patience is tested.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Calm down. This game we’re playing here is called blackmail. The next move is for you to ask what I want, then I tell you an alternative that keeps your secret safe.\
That suggestion bring Guru back to life again.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
Please! I’ll do anything you ask. What do you want me to do? Anything but kiss that woman.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Ew. No. I want you to do what you do best. You’re putting together a song and dance for the wedding reception right? I have a few lyric suggestions.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
That’s all? I’ll get to work right away. \
Guru gets up and excess water slips off his thighs.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Oh, and let me borrow one of those good cameras you’ve got.\
Kishen walks back into the house.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. MANSION FOYER - DAY\
Kishen walks in to see his Uncle sitting, dejected. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Sorry I kept you waiting.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
(resigned)\
It’s OK.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
What’s the matter?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
I got a call this morning from a ghost from my past. He says he has photos of Sania being unfaithful to Matt. I told him I didn’t believe him. Then my mother tells me what you told her. So it’s true. You worked with that man to bring this family down.\
(beat)\
Why?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’ve always been an inconvenience for you people.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
I worked hard my whole life to build this house and get your aunt and sister away from a life of wanting for things. I had to make deals with people like Mike to get an edge. I should have known that I could never shake filth like him off my leg that easy.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
He’s going to release the photos tomorrow morning, before the ceremony. Lee is giving me a nice gift once the wedding is a done deal. That was supposed to square my debt with Mike. \
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
My god. We have the pre-wedding party tonight. Guru has prepared a show. A hundred people are coming. It’s going to be such a twisted comedy.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m working on something. Sania will be embarrassed and the wedding will be ruined. There’s nothing I can do to change that. But if you play it cool for a little while longer, I’ll make sure it isn’t all for nothing.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
Kishen. My life’s about to fall apart. What do you want me to do?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Do what you always do. Act like nothing’s wrong.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>UNCLE MISTRY\
(angry)\
I want you out of this house!\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(walking away)\
I packed my bags this morning.\
Kishen walks away victorious with Uncle Mistry sits slouched as a broken man.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. WEDDING HALL - NIGHT\
Guests are filing in to what is sure to be the wedding of the summer. Uncle Mistry is greeting the newcomers like nothing has changed. If you look closely though, he lacks the same spark of enthusiasm as before. Inside Sania sits are in a throne chair with an empty one for Matt beside her.
Kishen has a photo booth set up with some props on the side for arriving guests to get some candid shots. Instead of himself personally taking the photos, he’s hired some assistant photographers and is merely supervising. They are currently photographing a bunch of Sania’s fiends, including Vipti, as they try on different funny glasses and hats. He looks disinterested and constantly checks his watch.
CD walks into the party, presenting Auntie Mistry with a gift and a gracious smile. She sees Kishen by the photo booth, but deliberately diverts her gaze and continues into the hall.
Next up at the photo booth at Rishi and the DJ, posing tough. Once Rishi is done, he comes alongside Kishen to have a one on one.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>RISHI\
(smug)\
Once we’re done with this, I need your help planning me and your cousin’s wedding. The real wedding.\
Kishen appears unfazed by the barb.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Yeah. I mean, if she’ll have you. And my rates going up. Way up. Here, take a card.\
Kishen hands Rishi a newly minted business card. Rishi is confused as to how his attempt at dominance played out. Kishen has left his presence now and is making his way to CD, standing in line for the buffet.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Hey stranger.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD \
Kishen.\
(looking down)\
Where’s your camera?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I won’t need it until later. Can I talk to you outside for a minute?\
EXT. WEDDING HALL - NIGHT
Kishen and CD find a corner outside similar to their usual one outside the mansion, only this one is unfortunately smack dab beside a full dumpster.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Not gonna light one up?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
Danny’s convinced me to try going cold turkey.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(scoffs)\
Danny. It’s so easy to want to believe him, isn’t it?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
He can be genuine when he wants to be.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Danny isn’t anywhere close to what you think he is.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Danny convinced me to do it. He introduced me to the right people. He taught me how to act. How to dress. He practically took the shots for me.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
I can’t believe it.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Oh believe it. But don’t worry. After the next few minutes, the roof will be blown in this place. We can get out of here now if you don’t want to see it happen. I’ve hired a couple of assistants to take care of the pictures if need be.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You must be out of your fucking mind if you think I’m leaving this party with you.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD\
You’re not any better than he is. In fact, at least that piece of shit isn’t trying to pawn off his sins on someone else.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD \
I hope you sit down on a barbed wire dildo.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. WEDDING HALL - NIGHT\
Auntie Vandana approaches Guru Seti as he is preparing to present his showcase.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>AUNTIE VANDANA\
I just wanted…\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
For God’s sake, let me alone woman!\
She is left speechless and sulks away. Guru Seti looks to be in a moment of catharsis. He smiles and it looks like all his inhibitions have left him.
Guru scans the crowd to see where everyone is seated. Sania is amongst her girlfiends at the largest table. Uncle Mistry sits at the table next to them, rubbing his head while his wife is inquiring as to why.
Lee is over at the bar with his son and other Chinese guests, getting plastered.
Mike Roy has decided to show up anyway, and sits with some goons surrounding him.
DJ Turntable cuts the mix and signals for a spotlight to trace it’s way over to Guru’s position. The hall murmurs into silence.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>GURU SETI\
(nervous)\
Without further adieu, the song of the evening.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>SONG: THINGS AREN’T WHAT THEY SEEM\
A comedic retelling of events so far, along with revelations. The song details Sania’s affair. When that bomb drops, the reactions echo through the room.
Sania screams and puts both hands over her mouth. Next to her, Vipti drops her double fisted wine glasses to the floor. By the bar, Matt grabs the whiskey bootle from the bartender and starts chugging from it. Lee looks absolutely floored, and then his eyes seek out Kishen in the crowd for an explanation. Kishen shrugs in his direction.
The song continues and the criminal underpinnings of the whole affair are detailed. Meanwhile, in the parking lot, cop cars are pulling in, almost as if part of the choreography.\
The cops start filtering into the hall and pandemonium bubbles up. DJ Turntable at first is at a loss, but then shrugs and changes up the music to something akin to an anti-police hip-hop song.\
When the cops bust the hall, Mike Roy’s goons get into a scuffle with them. Once pepper spray is used, the resistance dies down. Mike Roy himself simply complies.
Lee is next to get handcuffed while he says something in Chinese to his son. Matt starts blubbering with tears.
The cops slap cuffs on Danny next. CD walks up to him and looks him dead in he eyes with rage.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Not my proudest moment.\
CD slaps him across the face. Danny looks at the cops incredulously.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY\
Isn’t that assault? Where are her cuffs?\
Guru Seti packs his bag hurriedly in an attempt to leave before he gets caught up in the carnage. The stage is empty of singers and dancers now. Only Kishen remains, firmly in the spotlight. He takes out his camera to get some shots of the arrests. The spotlight casts glare onto his lens, so he side steps into the darkness and keeps shooting.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. LUXURY CAR - NIGHT\
Kishen sits inside a fancy new rental car in fancy new clothes. He has a tablet in his hands and is reading through a tabloid article. The headline reads “Bollywood Wedding Ruined in Musical Expose.”
A car pulls up on the curb opposite him. He puts down the tablet and picks up his camera. A drunken couple stumble out. The man puts his arm around the woman and helps her up the steps to the front door of a townhouse. Kishen snaps pics along the way until he gets a clear one of their faces in the porch light.
He puts the camera down and his phone starts ringing. The caller ID reads “Metro Police.” He furrows his brow and answers the phone.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(professional)\
Kishen Mistry.\
There is heavy breathing and other noise on the other end of the line.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Hello?\
Kishen’s new watch glints off of the dashboard lights.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (O.C.)\
They only give you one phone call in here. Just like in the movies. I didn’t have anyone else to call. Isn’t that sad?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Oh, Danny? Danny Sharma? How’s it going pal? I was shocked when I heard about the arrest. Tell me what they’re saying isn’t true.\
Kishen’s tone is concerned but his face obviously betrays him.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (O.C.)\
I underestimated you. That’s my fault. I shouldn’t have kept you in the dark as much as I did.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m sorry. I don’t have the faintest idea what you’re talking about.\
Kishen checks his rearview mirror. No one is there. He turns on the car.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>DANNY (O.C.)\
Listen, I know you. I knew the type of person you were before me met. That’s because I’m the same in a way. You’re not the type of person to have a real friend. Neither am I. But I taught you how to play this game. This game that’s going to treat you very well if you play it right. Didn’t that count for anything?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
Oh, it’s a game we’re talking about? I must’ve just played it better than you then. I guess. Goodbye.\
Kishen hangs up. He’s done a good job of becoming who he has, but this revenge was personal to a point that his suaveness peels back to reveal the ill equipped child underneath.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>INT. ART GALLERY - DAY\
A frame sits covered in a tarp on an aisle inside the main show space of a prime art gallery. A cocktail crowd surrounds the aisle in anticipation. The curator takes a slip of the tarp in his hand. The crowd starts counting down.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CROWD\
Three! Two! One!\
The tarp is pulled back to reveal a photo. It is the photo Kishen took of CD smoking a cigarette on the stoop outside the mansion. An older Kishen, 22, steps into frame, clapping in time with the crowd. The curator shakes his hand and they pose of a picture. The camera flashes.
LATER THAT NIGHT
Kishen moves from group to group talking with the guests at his opening night. A one point he grabs a tray of hor d’ouevres from a waiter and hands them out. This brings about much amusement in the crowd.
He sees a girl looking remarkably like CD admiring the photograph. He stops in his tracks, suddenly serious. He walks closer until he realizes the girl is not CD, but someone who looks uncannily like her. Turns out her style has become mainstream since Kishen popularized it.
He pauses outside the perimeter of the exhibit, collecting himself. He finally has his game face back on. He approaches her.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
(charming)\
Usually I flirt by offering to take women’s photos. But you look so much like this one that I know that isn’t going to fly.\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD LOOKALIKE\
Does that mean you’ll actually have to be genuine?\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>KISHEN\
I’m only kidding. With me, what you see is what you get.\
The CD Lookalike smiles. Kishen has won over another one.\
FADE OUT.\
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>THE END
Scene Outline
Statute of Limitations
\
<$ScrKeepWithNext>REPORTER\
Hello. Ni Hao. Photographers aren’t supposed to be this famous. They spend the majority of their lives behind the camera instead of in front of it, by definition. Kishen BLANK has balked that trend since his entry into the public eye, and revolutionized the field ever since. Now, with the release of his autobiography, we get to finally see a portrait of the artist as a young man.
Kishen is currently observing a mauna, or traditional Hindu vow of silence to atone for events that have come to light since the writing of this book. Also please remember that the statute of limitations on any criminal act implicating Kishen mentioned in the book has definitvely passed. Please form an orderly line of autographs from Kishen to my left. For a quote from Kishen’s publicist, please line up to my right.\
The crowd parts like the red sea.
Club Fight
Another crowd rustles. This one is in a much darker settling and dressed more sharply. As the crowd parts we see a duo of dress shirt jocks is going blow for blow. People pull out their camera phones and begin snapping pictures. \
Click Click Boom\
A much younger Kishen is on the sidelines and raises his own camera, a professional one, to take a picture as well. His flash whites the screen.\
The fight gets broken up by security in short order.
Rishi gets him and brings his attention back to the group of girls getting their drank on. His real job is to photog their debauchery. It is someone’s birthday.
Rishi comes by and checks up on the girls to make sure everything is going OK. He reminds Kishen to be their shadow and get as many shots as he can.
Next shot is them in the limo going home. One of them is puking. Kishen slyly turns off his flash and snaps a pick of the girl at her worst. He flicks through the reel and smiles to himself. When he gets to the sneaky photo he took it is actually really blurry and indiscernible. He is disappointed with himself.
Kishen and Bride get off at their sprawling mansion of a house.
Video Games
Kishen gets home and takes the drunken bride up the spiral stairs to her room. She tells him to be quiet and not let mum and dad find out she’s drunk. He agrees and gets her into her room. It is the room of a princess. She falls over the bed and falls asleep. He thinks to help her but closes the door instead.
He goes downstairs to his own spare room and goes to bed.
Cross cut of the alarm and he is woken up 4 hours later.
He takes the bus to work and walks in towards the back warehouse. We see his uncle is already there, in a suit and on the phone arguing with a supplier.
He covers the phone and gets Kishen’s attention.
He tells him the suppliers never wake up early for him. He asks Kishen to put on a put of coffee.
We see him working a forklift at the flooring warehouse.
We cross cut between him handling the forklift controls and handling the video game controller with him grandma.
Grandma: Headshot
Kishen smiles for the first time.
Grandma picks up photos from the bed. She keeps one in her hand. “I like this one.”
They want you to photograph the wedding.
No. I don’t want to do that kind of stuff.
They trust you. You’re family. You need experience. I wouldn’t hire a plumber that hadn’t seen a toilet before? I’m sure photography is similar. You have talent. You’re my beloved. Help the family and help yourself.
Later:
Kishen is editing the photos from the party last night. He is brightening up the faces of the girls and trying to make them look flattering. He turns to the photo of the girl puking and tries to fix it but there’s no use.
Sania comes in and he quickly tabs back.
Oh my god my nose looks so big. Can you make it look smaller.
Kishen comically makes it tiny. That’s not what I meant.
Kishen: I’m a photographer, not a magician.
Sania: You drive a forklift.
Kishen tabs to other photos.
Sania: Keep that one. Pretti looks like a horse. This one emphasizes her horse-like qualities.
Kishen: But it was her birthday.
Sania: After today things will be about me for a while. Send them to me before you send them to anyone else.
She pauses at his door.
Daddy bought out the sweet shop’s shelves for the day. Come eat. And maybe get some sunlight too.
Cut to: A wide vista of the mansion lobby
Uncle: Don’t work at the warehouse while the wedding is happening. I’ll still pay you. This wedding will take a lot of time from all of us and I want you there to take snaps of everything beta.
He smiles.
Kishen half-heartedly smiles back.
Kishen Meets Danny
Another crowd rustles. This one is in a much darker settling and dressed more sharply. As the crowd parts we see a duo of dress shirt jocks is going blow for blow. People pull out their camera phones and begin snapping pictures. \
Click Click Boom\
A much younger Kishen is on the sidelines and raises his own camera, a professional one, to take a picture as well. His flash whites the screen.
Kishen Meets CD
Another crowd rustles. This one is in a much darker settling and dressed more sharply. As the crowd parts we see a duo of dress shirt jocks is going blow for blow. People pull out their camera phones and begin snapping pictures. \
Click Click Boom\
A much younger Kishen is on the sidelines and raises his own camera, a professional one, to take a picture as well. His flash whites the screen.
Award Ceremony
Live from the World Art Awards in Shanghai -
Interview
Big China Proposition
Warzone
Art Opening
Research
Apr 11
Read the whole thing from beginning to end. Keep in mind pacing in the front half.
Fix speech at award show.
KISHEN’S Age
Main arc:
Main Arc: 20
Village: 30
Talk Show: 32
Award Ceremony: 43
Book signing: 52
Idea: Danny and Kishen were friends when they were younger. Danny is Mike Roy’s son. Mike Roy wants Danny to be a movie star. Uncle Mistry does not want to cast him. Uncle Mistry has been keeping Danny at bay. Uncle Mistry is now going to film the movie in China. He is in debt and Lee will give him money to pay off Mike Roy. Mike Roy is known to Kishen, and has tried to convince him before.
Problems: No surprise when Mike appears.
Why would Danny be allowed near the party?
Good: Mike Roy can try to fill in as a father figure for Kishen.
Need more interaction between Kishen and Uncle and Aunt. We only see Uncle at the end. Need Uncle and Sania fleshed out. Aunt can fall by the wayside.
How do we do it?
A dinner party. Between the Lee family and the Mistry family.
This is a good idea. It could show the true side of the family.
Need to develop Rishi. Have a scene where he and Kishen are waiting for something together.
Sania needs her reception dress picked up. Rishi takes Kishen?
Well developed arcs:
CD - hates fame, then begins to like it once she gets it. Must stay true to herself in the end by rebuking Kishen and Danny.
Danny - A faker gets outfaked. CD is his chance to become a normal, honest guy again but he fucks it up.
Needs work:
Kishen\
- Needs a personality that is fleshed out through more scenes. Need to understand his willingness to betray his family more.\
- Need more interactions with his family and Rishi. Enough interaction with Danny and CD.\
- Goes on shopping spree with Sania. Takes photos of her in different outfits. Rishi shows up and delivers something. He is surprised to see Kishen there. They make small talk about Mike. Rishi reveals that Mike is his boss and not Kishen’s friend. He is to be respected.
The shopping spree will again display wealth disparity and give Kishen’s ego another slap.
Then a scene with him and his foster parents. But what?
Uncle: “Kishen, put on one of my suits and come along. It doesn’t look good if I go alone. Call some friends if you have any.” Shows up in oversized suit with Danny or CD. What is his business deal? For the wedding hall? For a florist? Maybe a mutually beneficial deal between the wedding and his actual business.
Objectives:\ - Why does Kishen hate his family?\
- Flesh out Uncle Mistry\
- Flesh out Sania\
- Flesh out Rishi
Auntie and Uncle keep calling him Beta,
Part 1: Intro Kishen, his role in the family, and the proposition made to him.
Part 2: Intro Danny, he is the catalyst to kishen’s transformation, and get’s Kishen to commit to the proposition.
Part 3: Kishen goes through with it, but things quickly get out of hand. He ends up getting played.
Part 4: Kishen picks up the pieces and enacts revenge on those that betrayed him. In the process, he forsakes his family for good.
How to proceed: Re-write from page 1. Keep all the new priorities in mind.
Kishen: Awkward, greedy, sarcastic. Just because you are in a Cindarella situation doesn’t mean you will turn out good.
Back up movie industry connections. Mention this town’ cliche. Have them meet producers and directors.
Main story ages:
Mike Roy - 40
Mar 26
We need Mike Roy to surface earlier in the story.
The club scene maybe? Kishen is brought to Mike Roy in a booth and made to answer some questions. He gets distracted and runs off when the fight starts.
Too many chars are trying to meet each other. You were on the right track with CD, but make Danny an old friend too.
Feb 26
Goal: 120 pages
Scene: 3 pages
153.85 words per screenplay page.
Goal: 20,000 words - 130 pages
Get into the head of your characters
Kishen:
Danny: Says “Holy macaroni, canoli, rigatoni” throughout the film.
What does this story hae going for it?
Family drama
Photography
Anti-social
Chinese property purchasing. New foreign elite.
Make the story feel like dominoes falling. Add some intrigue and politics to the whole thing.
New framing idea: Meet the artist. Talk about the prolificness of his work and how he got his start.
The framing scenes work backwards to when he first started as a famous guy. The last scene is his first art show with CD’s picture. This should concern the audience as they seem to know that the story will end well for Kishen despite how the current part of the narrative turns out, so they hope he get’s his fame through good means, but are let down.
This builds a seedy backstory to a guy who first sparked his flame by finding the grit behind other people’s backstories.
2
nd
framing scene: interview - “never turn down any opportunity.” - Flash back to turning paparazzo.
Show China as being the centre of pop culture in the future.
Macro Power Triangle
Mike Roy wants his money from Uncle.
Uncle does not have the money, and wants to marry his daughter to a Chinese man to get dowry money to pay Mike Roy.
Mike Roy is not aware of this arrangement, and tries to ruin the wedding.
The Chinese man wants to buy Mike Roy’s club but Mike Roy refuses. The Chinese man wants to marry off his son for Canuck citizenship.
What action does the Chinese man take against M Roy? Espionage. He hires Kishen to spy on M. Roy. Kishen is trusted because he treats the groom nice. Although, he doesn’t tell the groom what is going on and thus is sworn away once the affair is revealed.
Dany confront Kishen
Danny “I brought you into this game.”
Kishen “Thank you. It just turned out that I play it better than you.”
Kishen is recruited into a game he finds out he plays better than the encumbents.
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3 Four-Way Oppositions involving Kishen\
Bold = Macro societal power struggle. Underworld vs incumbent corporate vs foreign corporate\
Italics = Love triangle
Underline = Battle for Kishen’s soul
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Big China —————————————————————————————Mike Roy \
Little China ———————————————————Rishi\
CD ——————————Danny
Kishen —————————Grandma
Kishen —————————————————————Bride
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Kishen ——————————————————————————————Uncle
Re-read:
Intro scene on mountain - cut scene and framing. What is new framing?
Scene 2: Club - maybe keep - I like the title card scene a lot.
Scene 3: Club owner tirade - adds conflict
Scene 4: Bus home -
Auntie: Substance abuser. Doesn’t really like anyone. Uncle is too busy working and putting on appearances. He wants everything to appear OK. Auntie speaks poison. The daughter is a product of her raising. She likes flashy things to please dad and acts like a bitch because her mother does.
What is Auntie’s redeeming quality? She has poor health. Migraines and the like. She self medicates and wears shades a lot. She is also keen at avoiding public missteps for the family. She protects them from external threats but unleashes herself on them instead.
Compare her private demeanour to her public demeanour at the party. She gives a speech at the part that builds her character and provides exposition. Chinese don’t show up til much later.
People come up to her and talk about Kishen with such pity. She resents the attention he takes from the main attraction.
Rishi: Makes comment during first club scene to Kishen “You’ve got a job to do. If I was the one paying you I’d be upset.”
The next day he is conversing with dad.
CD and her dad are the caterers at the welcome party. She is snippy with everyone except people she thinks are marginalized. She is cold to the groom until he is picked on.
Kish likers her, or thinks he does. Until Danny shows up. “Me and Kish never used to hang out until you showed up.”
Grandma speaks primarily Hindi. This can create an environment of : lost in translation, inequality, deception.
Key strands at story beginning: Wedding, Rishi as shit disturber, family’s wealth, Danny as guest of honour, CD (acquaintance from Previously), parents are dead.
There is a guest welcoming party the next day. Today is the calm before the storm. - Give off this vibe in photoshop scene.
At the first parry, kishen follows CD out back and watches her smoke. He takes a picture of her (the one that will make him famous).
K shows the pic to CD and Danny when they chill. Danny asks Kishen to take a photo of them both and he does so.
Danny suggestively triggers Kishen into breaking down. He confesses how much he hates his family.
Danny hooks him up with Mike Roy.
M. R. Makes proposition to spy.
Interview scene.
Groom arrives.
Pre-Feb
Brainstorm
Do i wanna write this? \
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major change to ending. for sure.\
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Kishen - good protagonist?
CD
Danny
Rishi
Salina
Aunt
Uncle
Grandma\
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Write something that will change your life.\
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This may get traction.
Will I change it too much for the producer’s liking?
Masala does not equal bad.
A shy, awkward boy takes up the life of a paparazzo and becomes charismatic and manipulative.
Tone: Right now = campy and surreal. Definitely avoid the current surreal tasting ending.
Kishen \
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Examples of character flaws:
Aimless
Anxious to Audacious
Blunt to Suave
Callous
Cruel
Anxious and Blunt
To
Audacious and Suave
Goes from sticking out to hiding in plain sight.
Always Humourful
Always detached
He convinces a famous couple to kiss on camera for him. A first.
Danny teaches him how to be suave but at the expense of using his in with the family.
Danny and the kid represent 2 corners of an opponent box. The other 2 corners are occupied with chars who either caring and blunt and caring and suave
Anxious to Audacious is kids own battle.
Moral line: Empathy holds us back from our full potential, but for a reason.
OR
To create truly great art, one must be a participant in life, not merely an observer.
There needs to be someone else held back from their potential who holds back.
The brides father is indebted to the mob.
The mob runs the dance club.
The mob underling is affairing the bride.
The Chinese are only doing this to get their money out of China.
The mob is messing up China’s plans.
Grandma is caring and blunt. She messes up with this tactic somehow. She cannot deceive, even to protect the kid?
The flaw square should be reworked in terms of terms ie suave vs subtle.
The girl falls for Danny and is in the balance in Danny and Kishens battle. He saves her, but for self serving purposes. She wonders if Kishen likes him but he doesn’t.
Key Battles
Compassion vs. Indifference
Sincerity vs. Deception
Prudence vs. Audacity
She leaves him, in the final blow.
Kishen talks about revealing the truth but in the end tells a false story so it sells more.
An indifferent, prudent and sincere photographer takes on a big job and becomes compassionate, audacious and deceptive.
He takes a haunting photograph of CD and that’s how he finally feels something for one of his subjects.
”Are you gonna kill him?” “Are you kidding me? This is Canada.” - Mob diffusion
Side-plots:
Uncle - hiding his working past and confronted with it by Mike Roy. Rishi is a pawn in Mike Roy’s game.
Mike Roy runs an informal underworld with Rishi as a nightclub owner and Danny as a charmer. Kishen is the final piece of the puzzle. Now that he is coy too, Mike Roy may even be able to live without Danny.
Factions: The Family. The Chinese. The Underworld. The Public. Celebosphere.
Kishen goes from amateur photog to papparazzo to professional photog (his image of CD wins an award.) CD ends up being his muse. She is not with him anymore so it is a bittersweet victory.
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Truby
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Self-revelation, need, and desire \
Kishen’s moral need is to grow a sense of compassion and connect to the world. His psychological need is to
find success and prove everyone wrong. His desire is to become a great photographer, but he cannot truly be
great until he starts to feel empathy for his subjects (fulfills his moral need). \
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This is a fairly simple step but important to get right. Failure to secure all three of these will result in not knowing which direction your story is going.\
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Ghost and story world
Kishen’s parents died at a young age and he was adopted into the household of his uncle out of obligation. To cope with this trauma he has become indifferent to the feelings of others and himself. He lives a simple, careful life by thinking out his moves and saying what he feels. This has resulted in him presenting a cold exterior. \
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Kishen's life consists of working as a photographer around the city of Calgary and coming "home" to his uncle's house.\
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This step in scriptwriting is figuring out the protagonist’s “ghost” and “story world”. The ghost is an issue from the protagnist’s past that still haunts them, perhaps causing an internal struggle for them. The “story world” is then showing the audience what an average day for our main character would look like.\
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Weakness and need
Kishen’s weakness is his lack of compassion. Kishen needs to connect with humanity through his photography.
The weakness or problem is the difficulty that the hero has at the start of the story. The need is what our hero
needs
in order to live a better life. In a large amount of stories this is a wife/girlfriend\
Inciting event
\
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Kishen decides to take on the job of photographing his cousin’s wedding.
The inciting event is generally quite noticable in the film. It’s the action that breaks the hero’s “story world”. For example in the film Taken, the kidnapping of his daughter would be the inciting event.
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Desire
Kishen desires to become a great photographer and take truth revealing shots.
This is what drives the story. The plot of the story is generally focused on the hero’s desire.
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Ally or allies
Ally: Grandma - She is good to a fault and will not hide secrets. She is also limited in her social status in the house and unable to help Kishen immensely. Kishen feels compassion when she is in jeopardy. She turns into an opponent when she finds out what Kishen is trying to expose.\
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Ally: CD - She turns into an opponent when Kishen changes who he is. She comes back when he exposes Danny but Kishen does not trust her anymore?
Using an ally is a way various scriptwriters define their protagonist. Allies can come in more or less any form, whether it’s friends, peers or someone that gives advice to our hero.\
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Opponent and/or mystery
The opponent is fairly straight-forward. The opponent is the person with the ability to attack the hero’s weakness displayed earlier on. The mystery can also be the unseen opponent. It is also known that detective stories need a mystery as they have a lack of an enemy
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Fake-ally opponent
The fake ally is a charcter in the story that appears to be an ally but ends up being an opponent in the story. For example in
The Dark Knight Rises
Fake-ally opponent would be Talia-Al-Ghul.
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First revelation and decision: Changed desire and motive \
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This is often known as the first turning point in the film and is where the hero receives some new information or makes a decision that taken them in a different direction.
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Plan \
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The plan is the hero’s means of fulfilling his/her desire. The plan doesn’t always have to go spot on, if it did it would make for a boring film. An unseen flaw in the plan or an opponent’s action could change the plan. This change should be intended to shock or surprise the audience\
13
Opponent’s plan and main counterattack \
14
The opponent then comes up with a plan to counteract the hero’s and stop the hero from fulfilling their desire.\
15
Drive \
16
The drive is the guideline of the story, the actual steps that the protagonist takes within the plan. It is very easy to simply repeat yourself for the drive so it is important to take care not to\
17
Attack by ally \
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This is also fairly noticable in many films. This is the section where the hero goes awry, steers from his orginial motive or tries to short-cut to get to his desire. This is usually the section where the hero receives a slap across the face.\
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Apparent defeat \
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Apparent defeat is when the hero is about to give up. When all hope is lost, there is no way out of their predicament. It is the low point of the story where the hero is certain that the opponent will come out victorious.\
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Second revelation and decision: Obsessive drive, changed desire and motive This is when the hero realises that where they went wrong and decides to give it another shot. The hero has renewed interest in their desire.Their perspective on the desire may have changed\
22
Audience revelation \
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This is when the audience sees something that the hero doesn’t and learns a vital piece of information. Thi is typically when the audience learns a piece of information before the protagonist\
24
Third revelation and decision \
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This is when our hero learns all they can, making them a more worthy opponent against the opponent and able to beat them.\
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Gate, gauntlet, visit to death \
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This is typically the last sacrifice the hero will have to make for their desire. The hero may also go through a final test before their battle.\
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Battle \
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The final battle between the hero and the opponent. This step is in most films made and is a chance for the writer to clearly distinguish what the hero and opponent are fighting for. This is to show who will come out on top\
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Self-revelation \
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The hero finally learns what they have been doing wrong and how to do things successfully. It is something the hero did not understand until that moment\
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Moral decision \
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This is the hero then acting on what they have just learned. The hero must make the decision to do the moral thing. This may be the hero dying a noble death\
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New equilibrium \
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This is finally everything returning to normal, similar to the “story world” shown at the start.
Proto-Treatment
<$ScrKeepWithNext>THE GIRL’S FATHER IS A FLOORING MAGNATE. HE STARTED OUT WORKING CLASS AND BUILT A FORTUNE THROUGH FLOORING. NOW HE WANTS TO PROPEL THE FAMILY TO A HIGHER ECHELON.\
He has photos on the girl from the early days that the girl doesn’t like to show the world.
An awkward orphan must find his place amongst his extended family. He is hired to photograph a wedding but uncovers things the family did not intend to be brought to light. He must decide between exposing his family for notoriety or defending people who don’t really care about him at all.\
Scenes
Kishen leaves the company of Danny and CD at a club to befriend a newly minted celebrity couple. He gets past their security and manages to get them to kiss for his camera.
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Trash
Rough Draft copy
Rough Draft copy
Rough Draft
On The Roof
<$ScrKeepWithNext>CD, DANNY AND KISHEN SIT ON THE ROOF HANGING OUT. \
What are they talking about?