Above the Dead, EP 2.3 "Riders on the Storm"A Screenplay by Mike Decker Season 2, Episode 3 ABOVE THE DEAD . com Season 2, Episode 3
(50 pages) "Riders on the Storm" INTRO BLACK... FADE IN: EXT. SSH (Sand Series Hotel) WIFFLEBALL FIELD - EVENING A pitcher from the mound throws a heater, right down the
middle, as Fish (same age as he was when he died) swings and misses. Dissolve to same pitcher throwing another fastball, this
time Fish watches it go by. UMPIRE Outside! We got 1-1 (count). ZANE (OS) Good eye, baby! Dissolve to same pitcher throwing a curveball, as Fish
swings and nails it up the middle (in between the two infielders). He runs
safely to first base, as Zane and others can be heard cheering (as well as fans
from the stands and hotel balconies, hundreds of them!). Zane at dugout, with Greg, Jagger, Miles and 3 others.
Chasin is clapping his hands from the third base coaches box, Troy is walking
to the on-deck circle, as Wyatt walks to the plate. ZANE That a baby, Fish! Way to play
this game like the kid that you are! GREG Way to get that leadoff man on,
baby! MILES (excited) Here we go, kid! Two to tie,
and three to take this thing home! POV goes over the stands (hundreds of fans), over the
ball field (1 pitcher, 2 infielders on each side of diamond, 3 outfielders),
and over the fans on the rightfield beach area, and in the pool (all
cheering)... Dissolve to Wyatt swinging, hitting the ball up the
middle. It's picked up by the shortstop infielder, who runs to second base, tagging it (before Fish does)
and quickly firing the ball to the pitcher, who catches it like a first baseman
(they play pitcher mound out rules). UMPIRE Out at second; safe at first! Dissolve to Troy swinging, ripping a ball to the gap in
right center field. It splits the outfielders, and rolls to the fence, as the
crowd cheers. Chasin is holding his hands up in the air (for the runner, Wyatt,
to stop at 3rd base), as Wyatt rounds 3rd, stopping and watching the ball. Troy
hustles into second, pumping his fist and yelling to his teammates at the
dugout. TROY YEEEAAH, BABY!!! (holding up
hands!) Zane is approaching the plate, as he and others behind
him, at the dugout, are all pumped and cheering... FISH This is all you, Zane. We've
waited seven years for this, baby! Dissolve to the pitcher throwing a heater to Zane, who
swings and drives one deep to left field. His family/teammates (in background)
throw up their hands. Zane runs hard. Both Wyatt and Troy take steps forward,
with hands going in air, as the left fielder runs out of room, and watches the
ball fly into the hands of fans on their balconies, cheering. The crowd erupts.
Zane's hands go in air, as he rounds the bases, his teammates at the plate are
jumping up and down, waiting for him. Fireworks begin blowing up, over the field and above the
Hotel. The other players hang their heads as they walk off the field. An
announcer comes over the stadium speakers. ANNOUNCER That is the first-ever
walk-off, Sand Series Championship, in League history! Also, for
the first time in League history, the Rip City Rippers,
and League founders, are your 4th of July Classic, Sand
Series Champions! Congratulations, Rip City! Zane crosses the plate, as they all go crazy. They could
not be any more happy or excited, and proud of their efforts. Grandpa Sam is in
the dugout, with Samantha, who begins running out to Fish, with a giant hug.
Then Zane instantly picks her up, high in the air, as she screams with joy. SAMANTHA (yelling) SAND SERIES CHAMPIONS! We
finally did it! Grandpa Sam is smiling, with a tear. He flashes to a time
before the Hotel, when the kids were young and playing wiffleball, on the
beach. Some of them were hanging their heads, as the other half celebrated like
champions. About twenty friends and family members, watch and cheer... Grandpa Sam comes out of flash, with his smile and tear,
and continues to watch his proud family, celebrate like children, and later
they remain celebrating on that same field, at night, with bonfires, drinks,
and fireworks exploding above… DISSOLVE TO: THEME TUNE/CREDITS Shots of all the
chaos in the city, on day 1 of the “zombie” apocalypse, followed by
bumper-to-bumper traffic on the highways, and tons of angry/nervous people
honking or trying to pull off the road. Shot of Mt. Hood, followed by shots of
a huge tree house overlooking a lake, which dissolves into the Columbia River,
and traveling down it, through a huge forest fire, before reaching the
Bonneville Dam. POV continues down the river, past the Glen Jackson bridge,
flowing by tons of houseboats where the dead are falling into the river,
chasing after whoever is drifting by… POV of the
Willamette River as it goes under the St. Johns bridge, and up into the hills
of Portland. It travels over them, into the Beaverton area, crossing over the
top of the Nike World Headquarters, and keeps traveling over farmlands, and
into the coast range, finding the Glenwood Market, and a large camp with log
walls, across the creek and behind the store… POV speeds over
the Tillamook Forest, Highway 26, and a bunch of other lands, before coming to
the Columbia River, traveling west, under the Megler bridge, and into the
ocean. It continues along the shoreline, past Astoria, the Haystack Rock of
Cannon Beach, coming to a pair of jetties, and following through the channel
between them. POV continues up into the nearby hills, finding a large camp,
protected by a large log wall… POV travels back
down to the shoreline, and over a huge hotel, with a shot of the Twin Rocks in
the ocean. POV travels by the bay of Tillamook, and along Highway 6, back into
the coast range, until leaving the road, back into the Tillamook Forest, until coming
to a very large compound, hidden away by all the brush and mountain-side, as
opening credits roll… DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME EXT. COLUMBIA RIVER - DAY Sam and all the others on the river, rowing along. DJ It's like your Grandpa takes
images of Heaven, and creates them into real
life... No wonder he's so loaded. ELI I played there before, but
never in one of the tournaments, or the League. Sam placing her fingers in carrier, checking on Bailey. SAM League is sixteen and over, but
they have weekend tourneys during the off-season,
for kids... Had... They all pause a few moments... DJ It's one thing that you have a
compound, but I still can't believe you're the people
who made the Sand Series Hotel. That place was
amazing. SAM Grandpa always dreamed of
making more, along the beaches of every state,
maybe even the states without beaches. DJ It was getting huge in Oregon.
That's so cool, your family actually won it all. I
was there in 09, I remember thinking my boys and I
could never field a team, worthy of beating those
two squads. SAM My cousins are crazy good. My
dad was a tough southpaw, with nasty junk. But
it took even them, seven years to win it
all. BENNY Was it only family on their
team? SAM The lineup was all family.
Chasin only pitched, my dad was the DH, when he wasn’t
pitching, and they had three other friends,
who were pitchers. DJ Including the DH, they had
seven in the lineups, and six on defense. Pitcher
mound outs at first and home, but you had to touch
second and third, for the force outs there. I think
that's how it worked? SAM Sounds right... ELI When we all die, soon...they better have a Sand Series Hotel in Heaven! Sam
just turns around, trying to give Eli a dirty, annoyed look, yet can't help but
to start laughing, like DJ and Benny do... SAM You like sports, Renee? Renee simply shaking her head... DJ Ping pong is the only thing I
ever got her interested in, and she was
Forrest Gump good! SAM She will have to prove that to
me, some day. Sam smiles at Renee, then looks back to DJ... SAM Ever heard of Wall Pong? DJ Wall Pong? SAM My cousins own an entire block
of pubs, in the city. It's called the Baker
Boardwalk. BENNY I like that. I take it, that's
your last name? SAM (nodding) One of the pubs is called
Basement Wall Pong. It's ping pong, but with wall shots.
It's fun to watch! They have huge tournaments, and
run edited videos of them on the boardwalk
website, some of them even live. It makes a
ton of money for the compound. Grandpa started
it all. BENNY Your Grandpa and Walt Disney
sound like twins, separated at birth. What an
amazing man! ELI Speaking of Walt Disney,
(looking at Sam) tell them about that Land of the
Great North West, or whatever it was called. Sam anxious to speak, but she notices Renee pointing, and
begins staring in silence, the direction in which Renee is looking. Everyone
else begins staring... Eventually, you see about a dozen experienced kayakers,
passing right by, without a word, just a nod or two. Sam and them just stare,
as the group goes by...and then begin to stare at each other... Dissolve to Sam and them, floating by, as they stare in
silence at a small herd of huffs, along the shoreline. The huffs spot them, and
begin walking into the water... Dissolve to them all rowing downriver. Renee points to
huffs, who are already in the water. Some of them are stuck, others are going
deeper, once they see the kayakers. They get in water over their heads, and
begin floating away, some of them sinking. Both Sam and Eli begin staring at the water, all around
them... Dissolve to them all rowing downriver. They can see
people on the shoreline, watching them row by... Dissolve to Sam looking tired, as does Renee, while they
all continue to row... Suddenly, they flinch as gunshots are heard. They all
look around, no one can see anything, or anyone. A couple more shots are fired.
Still, no one can see where they're coming from. They hear some screams, and
more shots... Dissolve to Sam and them, rowing downriver. Renee points,
as they all look. A dead body is floating, not too far away. It's face down in
the water. They row away from it, while peeking at the water all around them... Dissolve to them all rowing downriver. Benny is
quizzically looking at the hazy sky, ahead. Renee is closing her eyes, off and
on. Sam is taking a break from rowing, simply staring silently into the
water... Sam slowly begins to notice something falling on or near
her face. She looks outward, and then upward... SAM Is it...snowing? They all look around, and take notice of the falling
flakes, only they are not flakes... BENNY It's ash... Dissolve
to Renee, as she begins pointing. Sam and others looking. Their view up ahead,
of smoke rising, as something appears to be burning. As they get closer, they can tell it looks much bigger
than a simple house or two. It's getting bigger and bigger... SAM We'll be safe, on the
water…right? They all have eerie expressions, as they watch the sky
become darker and darker, with smoke... Dissolve to Sam and the others, rowing close to the
opposite side of the river, from the fire, as it burns fiercely, on the other side.
It's a forest fire, burning homes and trees. Conditions are extremely smoky. BENNY I know you guys are tired, but
we need to give it our best, right now. They all begin rowing with all their might, to reach
better breathing conditions... DISSOLVE TO: EXT. BONNEVILLE DAM - EVENING Everyone is exhausted, as they tiredly row toward land,
near the Bonneville dam... There is still smoky/hazy conditions behind them, but
they are past the danger... DJ and Benny begin climbing out of the kayaks, and
pulling them in and onto shore. DJ then grabs Eli and Sam's kayak, pulling them
in. He begins helping them out. Sandy excitedly jumps out and runs off to use
the ladies room. Sam is grabbing Bailey's carrier, bringing him to shore with
her. Renee is going after Sandy... DJ Unfortunately, no time to rest.
We need to hike over to the other side of the
dam. DISSOLVE TO: Those guys dragging their kayaks/supplies, and coming to
a secure location at the shoreline, on other side of the dam... Sandy runs off. RENEE Sandy, come back! Sandy stops and barks a couple times. Everyone stops what
they're doing, and looks direction of her barking. They can see another group,
about a dozen adults. It's the same people who passed them on the river.
They've already set camp, and are sitting around a fire. They're looking back
at them... ELI What do we do? DJ
grabs and places a pistol on his backside. Eli has his gun, Sam is moving
toward kayak, grabbing her gun. One of the men from the other group rises, as
does another, and they both begin walking toward them. ELI DJ, what do we do? DJ Nobody panic, stay totally
calm...and shoot their asses off, if they pull guns on
us. Eli braces, Sam looks nervous, Benny has his hand on his
pistol, in his pocket... Sandy lets the two men arrive at her, patting her on the
head as they walk by... DJ I think they're friendly...but
be ready. (looks directly at Eli) And be careful. Renee patting her leg, as Sandy approaches back her
direction. Sam and Eli eyeing the men, as they approach. Benny and DJ begin
taking a few steps toward them, as they begin to arrive. MAN Hello, there. I'm hoping you
folks are as scared of us, as we are of you? Man arrives and offers his hand, as DJ shakes it. Other
man shaking with Benny. MAN I'm Thomas. This is Ryan. DJ (now shaking
Ryan's hand) I'm DJ. This is Benny. (Benny
shaking with Thomas) THOMAS We saw the kids, and figured
we'd roll the dice and take our chances. You seem like
decent folks. DJ We are, but have been through
hell, especially the kids. (looking right at the
kids) If you can even call them that, anymore, after what
they've been through... RYAN I can imagine...even though I
don't want to. THOMAS Well, we'll leave you guys to
it. We just wanted to introduce ourselves, and let
you guys know we won't be any trouble, for you. DJ We appreciate that. THOMAS (while walking
off) We'll be leaving at first
light; good luck to you folks. DJ Where are you guys heading? THOMAS Washougal... We have some land,
in the hills. Private, and worthy of
surviving. DJ gives Sam a look... DJ We have a compound...a
multimillion dollar, one. Thomas and Ryan stop walking... THOMAS Where? SAM Tillamook Forest. It's my
family’s... THOMAS (shaking his head) Can't reach that destination by
river, not to mention going through the city. I take
it, you're extending us the offer of joining you there,
if we travel with you? DJ nodding with a shrug, and look at Thomas... THOMAS An offer I believe we'd
decline. (begins walking again) I'll talk it over with the
others, and return if they disagree, but just sounds too
dangerous, compared to Washougal. Sam suddenly looks worried, knowing that danger was a
reason for the others not to join them. DJ takes notice of Sam. DJ I hope you didn't mind me doing
that, Sam? We'd just be a lot safer in a big
group like that. Didn’t figure they’d be so chicken
s**t, about it. DJ and Sam, sharing a smile... BENNY Well (holding a pole)...let’s
catch some supper. Benny hands a pole to DJ, and another to Sam, as scene
begins dissolving. ELI Did you just say, supper? Sam kind of laughing, as she opens the carrier for
Bailey, who slowly comes out... Dissolve to everyone finishing off their
"supper", next to the fire. The camp is set up behind them. Bailey is
in Sam's lap, eating some fish that Sam feeds him. Eli begins to rise,
stretching. ELI Oh my God, I've had sore arms
before, after pitching, but there is not a part of me,
that does not ache. SAM I know! I used to laugh at my
dad, complaining after basketball or the Sand Series,
about his old man parts. My parts are young,
but they sure don't feel like it! BENNY He must have been pretty young,
when he had you, to still be running around
in the sand, playing a kids game? SAM He retired after that
championship. I've seen videos of him in his younger days, and
even before the hotel was built, when it was just
family against family. ELI Were they ever close to winning
it, before last summer? SAM They were a couple runs away,
from making the Championship, in 08. That's as
close as they ever got... DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK EXT. SSH WIFFLEBALL FIELD - NIGHT Fish (couple years younger) windups, from the pitcher's
mound, and throws a nasty curveball, swung on and missed by the hitter. Fans
cheer, as Fish and his teammates hustle off the field. Zane coming in from left
field. POV goes over the field, up the first base side, and up
to a fancy balcony, where Leo stands cheering. He sits back down, next to Mary.
Kate and a couple of her friends are in the background. LEO Fish is showing his age, this
year. I thought he was going to shut these guys
down, and take us straight to the Championship.
Now we got to get some damn runs... Dissolve to Troy hitting the ball to left field, for a
base hit. Greg comes into score, as Jagger rounds 3rd base. The left fielder
throws to the pitcher, who catches the ball at the mound, just before Jagger
touches home. UMP (with enthusiasm) He's out, at the plate! Zane was near the plate (with bat in hand), showing
disappointment in the out. UMPIRE We have two down. That is the
tying run at 3rd, and the winning run at 2nd.
Play ball! Zane steps up to the plate. FISH Come on, Zane! Put us there,
baby! POV Leo, Mary, Kate, and her friends, all standing. KATE That would have tied it.
Winning run would have been at 3rd, with 1 out. FRIEND Zane's going to win it, right
here. LEO He flakes under pressure. MARY This guy's already struck him
out once today. LEO (talking only loud
enough for Mary) He won't strikeout. He's got my
blood in him after all. He'll hit it hard, but
just miss it. Either pop it straight up, or a tailor-made
fly ball to the wall. Kate and her friends cheering. KATE Come on, Zane! Fish stands on 3rd base, while Wyatt claps his hands from
2nd base, and Troy at 1st base. TROY Right here, Zane! Time to flip
the script! The pitcher begins winding up, and throws the pitch. Zane
thinks about swinging, but holds back. UMPIRE Nope, outside. Ball 1. The ump throws the ball (no catcher), back to the
pitcher. Greg is on deck, with others behind him, cheering from
dugout. GREG Way to lay off it, kid! Now get
your pitch, and put us in the Sand Series,
baby! Pitcher begins winding up, and throws the pitch. Zane
swings and hits it hard, and deep to left. He looks hopeful, for a split
second, before angered, as he runs toward first base and watches. The left
fielder easily gets under the ball (with back almost against homer fence/hotel
balcony), and makes the catch. He raises his arms and immediately begins charging toward
the infield, to celebrate with his teammates. Zane drops to the sand, hanging his head... Leo is looking down toward Zane. LEO (muttering) God damn it, son...you guys had
it... Fish is slowly arriving to Zane, who is still hanging his
head, in the sand. Fish puts a hand on his shoulder. FISH I know...it stings like hell.
It's what makes you a true competitor... Zane looking up, and over at the other team,
celebrating... ZANE That was supposed to be
us... DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME EXT. SHORELINE CAMP - NIGHT Dark (little moonlight) with sound of people sleeping... Suddenly, there is some panic beginning, from the other
camp. It gets louder, and Sandy begins barking. DJ (too dark to see
him) What's happening?! SAM What? Benny turns on a flashlight, as both DJ and Eli get to
their feet. DJ Something's happening to the
other group! Flashlights at the other camp are going everywhere, as DJ
and them, all just kind of look and listen, while at the same time reaching for
guns, bats, and flashlights. Sandy begins going toward the commotion. BENNY/RENEE Sandy! (Sandy stops) ELI Do we go over there? DJ thinking...then looks/speaks to Benny. DJ Please stay here, with Sam and
my sister. Benny nods, as DJ and Eli begin walking over that
direction. Eli shines light. DJ Turn your light off. Be safer
if we're not seen, depending on what's happening. They carefully work their way over there. Eventually,
they come to hear the sound of at least one huff. They don't seem as afraid
now, especially Eli, who turns on his light, readies his bat, and confidently
begins approaching other group. DJ turns on his light, and catches up with Eli. The other
group appears calmer, but focused, as they mostly group together, with plenty
of commotion… Some of them, take notice of Eli and DJ arriving. Some of
them, take notice of not only the bat in Eli's hand, but the spear and gun in
DJ's. They begin clearing out of their way... They reach the middle, where Thomas, Ryan, and four other
guys, work hard to take down/secure two different huffs. They beat on them with
paddles. One huff gets close to biting one of them, as Ryan uses his paddle, to
knock the huff down/away. They have no idea how to kill them. ELI Oh my God, you people are
ridiculous! Eli simply walking right through the men, and blasting
the 1st huff, with one shot to the brain, from his bat. All it takes is one
more swing, to smash in the other huff's brain. The entire group now stands there, staring at Eli and the
dead huffs, in total awe. Eli looks at them, then to the dead huffs, and back
to them... ELI You're welcome. Eli walks away... They all stare, including DJ...who then turns toward the
others, who are now looking back at him. DJ It has to be the brain...it's
the only way to...kill them. Everyone looks from DJ, to the dead huffs... Dissolve to DJ arriving back at his camp, with Eli
already there... DJ The day we met, you told me
about having anxiety... (just looking at him) What
happened to that? ELI I grew out of it... DJ looking at Sam... DJ Is he okay? SAM Not even close. ELI Should I be more like those
people? Scared and weak? Did you see the way they
were looking at me? I feel guilty over how
great that makes me feel...yet at the same time,
it's the only thing really keeping me going... Others just looking at Eli...DJ nodding... Dissolve to dawn, as DJ and Eli take down the camp, while
Benny, Sam, and Renee are fishing. A pair of couples (holding hands), from the
other camp, are approaching... MAN (PAUL) Hello, there... We wanted to
thank you guys for your assistance, last night.
I'm Paul, this is my wife, Tami. That's Noah, and
his wife, Marlana... Thomas told us of your offer.
They're all leaving soon, but after seeing how well
you guys appear to have adapted to this new
world, the four of us were hoping to go with you,
to this compound of yours? DJ
a smile and look at Sam, who is turned around, looking at the new people (while
holding her fishing pole), and smiling back at DJ. DJ Absolutely...and for the
record, the "guy" who assisted you last night, is
actually a kid. He's only thirteen, and(motioning toward
Sam) Sam, over there, whose family owns the
compound, is only ten. She too, is very capable
of handling herself. The shy one is my sister,
Renee. She’s the team lookout. (motioning toward
Benny) Benny and I, hell we're only still here,
'cause they keep us safe. Paul, Tami, Noah, and Marlana all smiling... TAMI (looking at Eli) Wow, only thirteen, eh? It was
amazing how you handled yourself, last night. I
take it you've encountered a lot of those? DJ Sam wrote a letter, that would
answer that question, for you. PAUL We'd heard about what was happening,
but didn't see it with our own eyes, until
going downriver. Last night was the first time,
up close... NOAH We didn't even know there was a
way to put them down. PAUL And you're sure the brain is
the only way? ELI Before my brother died, he cut
one's head off, even tried to drown it. Nothing
worked... PAUL So, that's where you get it
from...(Eli just looking at him) That was a compliment,
son. ELI Thanks, but I'm not half the
person, he was. DJ Maybe not yet, but you're on
your way. ELI I'm only alive, because of
him...(looks/motions at Sam) Her and I, both. They all have empathetic looks, at the kids... Dissolve to the camp completely put away, and packed up
in kayaks (2 new kayaks now present). Everyone is finishing up breakfast, and
packing up final supplies. The other group, can be seen in the background,
kayaking downriver... DJ has a plastic baggie of leftover fish, he's tying to
the kayak, leaving a baggie of fish in the water. DJ Last call for bathroom....
Everyone set? Sam placing Bailey inside carrier, as Renee watches... RENEE I'm so glad he doesn't run
away. SAM I know. I had a feeling about
him, though. He's calmer than most other cats. Sam sticking her finger in cage, comforting him. Paul
approaches DJ... PAUL We were talking it over, and
both Tami and Marlana are well experienced, and
willing to kayak together, so that Noah and I, could pair
up with the kids. That divides the experience, and
only speeds up the trip. DJ looking at Sam, who is shaking her head, as DJ
hesitates to answer... Tami approaches... TAMI I know we're still strangers,
and even though we haven't experienced the kind of
things, that all of you have, we have suffered
loss. Paul and I, have a daughter, who means the world
to us. She lives... or lived...in San Francisco
with her husband and our grandchild, Kaitlin... Even
if they are still out there...somewhere...how would
we ever find them...or them us? I spend
almost every waking moment trying to answer that
question. (shaking head) I don't know...maybe
surviving at your compound, is a start. (looking
right at Sam) We're no threat to you, sweet
children. Having my husband and our good friend Noah, in
those kayaks with you... is our way of
contributing... DISSOLVE TO: EXT. COLUMBIA RIVER - DAY Paul is kayaking with Sam, Noah is paired with Eli, Renee
smiles as Sandy playfully barks at her, from Benny's kayak. Both Tami and
Marlana smile, as they row past the barking dog. They are all moving at a
faster speed than they did the day before... The scenery is beautiful. There are waterfalls. There are
small islands, full of trees and beaches. The birds are flying by. It's almost
hard to imagine life is the way it is, as everything out there is so
peaceful... DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK INT. CAR - NIGHT A car full of teenagers, laughing as they drive along.
The driver gets a text and looks down at her phone. She smiles and looks back
up at the road, for a quick moment. She then spends several moments looking/typing
on her phone. Headlights begin shining on her face. She looks up as a
car honks, and all her friends scream, as does she, just before impact. DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME EXT. COLUMBIA RIVER - DAY Sam in her kayak, with a tear running down her face... MARLANA He was only nine, when it
happened. The teenagers in the other car, were all
fine. I guess their karma comes another way. I spent the
first few months, simply trying to survive. The
next few months, I spent thinking about providing
that karma. (smiling at her husband) Eventually, I
realized I still had at least one great reason to go
on. NOAH It's the only thing that got me
through it, too... DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK EXT. FOOTBALL FIELD - NIGHT Player running with football, as he is tackled by
opponents, with fans cheering. Offensive players from sideline running out onto field,
as defensive players come in, taking their place on the sideline. One player
pats a teammate, as they come off the field. PLAYER That a baby! Way to take
advantage of your playing time. OTHER PLAYER Gotta’ love a good team virus! Both players stop in their tracks, staring over toward
the stands, where the sound of mass commotion is growing. Their POV of fans
scattering, eventually the entire stand of fans, are rising, panicking, and
running. Most go around, or right toward and onto football field. Those who
aren't running, are simply waiting, and watching. Football players are doing
the same. Once people are out of the way, everyone can see a
person, on the ground, ripping flesh off the body of a dead person, and eating.
Some people scream, while some, including football players, begin slowly
approaching the "attacker". As some of them get closer, the huff
eventually rises, and takes a step their direction. Some of them stop, but many of the football players look
angry, and ready to fight. As they get closer, the dead person on the ground,
suddenly comes to life, and rises to her feet. Now, everyone turns and
scatters, mass commotion as people go fleeing from the scene... DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME EXT. COLUMBIA RIVER - DAY Sam staring at Paul, as he rows and talks. PAUL At least, that's how Thomas
said his son explained it. Once some of the others,
began getting similar stories, of the dead coming
back, we knew it wasn't an exaggeration, as we'd
speculated at first. Even seeing it on the river banks, I
don't think it was until last night, that I fully
believed it. Anyhow, that's why we avoided making this trip, to
Washougal, as long as we could. Until it appeared
things weren't improving, on their own. Silence for a while, as they row along... SAM It's gonna’ get
better...eventually... That's what my grandpa was born for... DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK INT. BASEMENT WALL PONG - NIGHT It's a ping pong-themed pub, with a bar on the main
level, and 8 different railed areas, with views of basement rooms, with ping
pong tables, next to basement walls. Webcams hang over the areas, capturing all
the game action. There are games going on in each and every room. There
are spectators (with drinks) watching and cheering from above, as well as
below. You can see several shots of players, using the wall to hit the ball off
of, and back onto the other side of the table. Eventually, you come to see Zane, on one side of a pong
table, in the middle of an intense game, against someone else. The other player
hits a hard shot off the wall. Zane returns it. The other player goes off the
wall again, but this time Zane is set up for a monster slam, which is exactly
what he does, to the cheering of the fans, as he pumps his fist in victory. The
other player is approaching with a smile, and a handshake. Zane shares high-fives with a few others, while making
his way over to another table. He begins watching, as his cousins Greg and Rich
(Mason's son, 21), playing against each other. They are going back and forth,
one amazing shot after another. Fans are cheering, and with added excitement,
after Greg slams one on Rich, but somehow is returned, as the rally continues. A few shots later. it's Rich who slams one on Greg, but
this time, Greg is the one with an impossible return, but only to be slammed
again, by Rich. Greg makes a great effort to return the shot, off the wall. It
does indeed go off the wall, but too far, as it crosses over the table, landing
on the floor. RICH Eight-six, baby! ZANE (patting Rich and
leaves for another room) You guys are sick!
I can't handle watching you do this, for an entire game. Zane leaves room, as Rich serves a nasty spinner shot, to
Greg. Cut to their game, now coming from a computer monitor.
They are again rallying back and forth, over and over, as POV pans back to Sam,
watching (over the internet) from her bedroom, in her pajamas... SAM Gosh...you guys are just sick... DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME EXT. COLUMBIA RIVER - DAY Paul rowing, as he looks and listens to Sam. SAM I have so many special
memories, but those were some of my very favorite.
Staying up late on Friday nights, watching my cousins in
those tournaments. ELI Did they win those tournaments? SAM Sometimes, not always. Rich
more than anyone else. Greg too. Zane sometimes.
Some professional, came once. We all thought Rich
could beat him, because it was his first time playing
with wall pong rules. Didn't happen, though.
He destroyed everyone. DJ I bet Renee could take him. RENEE I don't even know wall
pong rules. I don't get it. DJ Well...something tells me that this compound we're heading for, probably has wall pong. At least from the way Sam has described it. SAM (nodding) Everyone in the family
contributed with creating what Grandpa called, the
recreational part of surviving the apocalypse.
Community events, sports, and things like that.
Even Christmas, will still exist at the compound. RENEE Wow, really? SAM (nodding, with a
long face) I don't know about this year...
Maybe next year... Some silence, as they row along... BENNY Maybe Christmas, this year, can
be about the people we've all lost, or will never
see again. Rather than giving to each other, we can
give honor, and thoughts to those who are no longer with
us. TAMI Amen... More
silence, as they row along... SAM I just want to see my moms, for
Christmas... My family... What's left of
them... More silence... Sam can see Renee's attention is on something toward the
shoreline. Sam turns to look. They all begin looking... Their view of what looks like over twenty huffs, unaware
of them (river is wide), and just walking down the highway road, in between all
the abandoned cars... More silence, as they continue to row... ELI You called it, DJ. Kayaking was
the way to go. DJ I just hope the weather stays
good (cloud cover), and my idea of a UPS truck,
works out, and enough open road to get us at least to
Forest Grove. There would still be a lot of ground
to cover, from foot, but don't see there being too
many huffs to deal with, in the coast range.
People (shrugging)... Some silence... TAMI Huffs??? Dissolve to Sam yawning as she rows some, stops, begins
again. Eli looking pretty tired himself... ELI Man, I didn't get sore until we
stopped yesterday, but I'm already feeling it,
today. DJ Quit whining, ya big baby. I
had to do this for five days, before we reached
Astoria. Of course, we had music, good food, warm tents,
shorelines with waving people...well...maybe
some of them weren't waving, might have been a
middle finger or two, but it was definitely a better
world, back then… Some silence... MARLANA Okay, seriously...what does
huff stand for??? DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - DAY Coach throwing batting practice pitch to Eli. Eli crushes
it, players shagging in the outfield, are running back for it, and watching it
fly over the homerun fence... The coach throws another pitch, and again Eli crushes it,
this time the outfielders don't even move, as they simply watch it fly way over
the fence... Eli takes another powerful swing, this time crushing a
line drive grounder, that the infielders get out of the way of, in fear of
their lives. Coach throws another pitch, and Eli sends another ball
flying over the fence, as the outfielder shouts to the guy retrieving the other
homerun balls. OUTFIELDER Another one, for ya’... Dissolve to a real game, as Eli pitches a blazing
fastball from the mound, with the hitter swinging and missing, walking back
toward dugout, as Eli and his teammates leave the field, toward their own
dugout. Eli's parents, John and Saara, along with Rhett and Amy (about 6 months
pregnant), are all next to his dugout, in the stands, cheering. JOHN Way to blow it by him, son! AMY Way to go, Eli! RHETT Throwing gas, baby brother! COACH (from dugout as
players arrive) We need base runners. Here we
go, now! Players pumped and cheering, as they enter the dugout.
Some of them grabbing helmets. Eli standing against fence, watching... Dissolve to a pitch coming to the hitter, high and
outside, as the hitter begins trotting toward first base. UMPIRE Ball four. Players cheering, as another hitter comes to the plate.
Eli is now wearing a helmet, and walking into the on-deck circle. His teammates
are cheering the hitter, but Eli just swings his bat, and watches. The pitch comes in, hitter swings and lines a base hit to
left-center field. A runner comes in to score, as another, runs to 3rd base.
With the outfielder throwing the ball to 3rd base, the guy who hit the ball now
runs to second base, clapping and cheering. PLAYER ON SECOND Come on, Eli, baby! Eli slowly heading to the plate. Fans and family,
cheering behind him. JOHN You got this, Eli! RHETT Just relax, Eli. Get your
pitch, now. AMY Deep breaths, Eli. Stay calm,
buddy! COACH (from 3rd
base box) Let’s go, Eli. Tie and win this
game, right here. Eli steps into the batter's box. He looks nervous, and
takes a deep breath. He watches as the pitcher nods, and begins winding up. The
pitch comes, and Eli rips it hard, but foul. JOHN Straighten it out, son! RHETT Hey, hit me harder, eh? Little
more patience up there, buddy! SAARA Come on, Eli! AMY You can do this, Eli. I believe
in you, buddy. CUTE GIRL You can do it, Eli! Eli looks from his 3rd base coach, to the cute girl, next
to a second cute girl. He steps back in the box. He watches the pitcher nod,
and then throw a curveball at him. Eli buckles his knees, and watches it curve
back over the plate. UMPIRE Strike two! JOHN Ohh, I don't know, Blue! RHETT That's okay, Eli. Stay in
there, kid. Gotta’ be aggressive, now. AMY Relax, Eli...deep breaths. Eli takes a deep breath, with a look from his 3rd base
coach, and at the girls again. They are both clapping. He steps back in, taking
another deep breath. The pitcher nods, and then throws another curve, this time
out of the zone, but Eli chases it. He strikes out. Slowly walking back, and
hanging his head... DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME EXT. COLUMBIA RIVER - DAY Noah listening/looking at Eli. ELI It feels like a lifetime ago...
Put me back in that box, now, and I'd hit that
ball, like I hit huffs... with all the confidence in the
world...the way I hit in batting practice... Silence, as they row... Suddenly, someone is honking a car horn. They all turn to
look. The person (guy) stops honking and runs outside the car, trying to grab
their attention. He runs over near the shoreline, to a child. He picks up the
little girl, holding her, for them all to see. Sam looks to DJ... DJ I...I don't know what we can
do? BENNY I could make room, for them. ELI It could be a trick. They stop rowing, drifting in silence, a few moments... DJ I just...I just don't think we
can... What happens the next time we see someone in
need? NOAH I agree... They can all hear the guy's echoing pleas, for them to
come help... MARLANA (nodding, with a
tear) I agree... More silence, as they begin rowing again...except Sam,
who simply stares back, toward the man and little girl. Then she looks at
Benny, who is rowing back toward shore, where the guy and the girl are... DJ Benny? Benny keeps rowing away. Sandy barks, back toward Renee.
Benny looks toward the guy, now excitedly waving his hands. He keeps rowing,
toward him. Suddenly, he stops, and just stares toward the guy... His POV of the guy and his girl, as a woman and two more
children approach them... Benny sits there, watching, knowing they have no room for
that many people. DJ and them are in the background, waiting... Benny begins rowing back, toward DJ and the others... DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK EXT. REMOTE SWIMMING HOLE - DAY A father (LANCE, 45ish) in the water, laughing and
throwing his little boy (11ish), up and into the water. The boy comes up,
laughing. His dad picks him up and throws him again. More laughter from them
both... Suddenly, a car can be heard crashing. They both look
toward the sound of it. Now a woman screaming is heard... Cut to a woodsy road, with a busted up vehicle. POV rolls
around side of car, where someone is hunched over something, down on the
ground. It looks like a huff eating someone or something. It's a dead deer... Lance, is coming from trail, onto the road, with his son
behind him... They see the person (female), or huff, hovering over the
deer, as she rises and faces them. WOMAN Oh, thank God! (she’s not a
huff!) DISSOLVE TO: INT. CAR/TOWING COMPANY - DAY Lance dropping the woman off at a towing company. WOMAN Thank you, so much. You are
such kind folks. LANCE You're very welcome, and good
luck with your car. He smiles and drives off, looking back at his son... LANCE Helping people is the godly
thing to do, son... even sinners deserve what we
can offer. Some silence... BOY Was she a sinner, Daddy? LANCE Indeed, she was, Benjamin. She
was in possession of a marijuana cigarette, and
the language she used, in which you did not
understand, are the kind of words I will never tolerate
coming from your mouth. They drive on, in silence... DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME EXT. COLUMBIA RIVER - DAY DJ looking at Benny. BENNY It's the way I was raised... Some silence... ELI You weren't so ready to help
the night we showed up, at your place. BENNY I thought you were sinners, at
first... More silence... SAM (talking to Benny) Are you religious? BENNY I was raised to be...but my mom
left my dad, for a woman. He always said she had
lost her place in Heaven, for it. I couldn't
except that...it made me begin to question everything
he dumped on me, as a kid... More silence... SAM My family believes in love. The
love people have for their children and
families, is proof of a higher power...a great one. Everything
else, is about being open-minded, and treating
other people, the way you want to be treated,
yourself. Benny nodding his head. Tami and Marlana, are both
nodding, as well... MARLANA Sounds like a special family... More silence... DJ stares ahead... DJ Coming up on Multnomah Falls,
aren't we? PAUL That we are... More silence... DJ Anyone...think maybe...once we
get there...that the water will be rising,
rather than falling? Everyone just turns and stares awkwardly at him... DJ What?... Like we all haven't
seen stranger things? Everyone slowly begins smiling, even kind of cracking
up... ELI Wow... Just wow… Dissolve to them now passing Multnomah Falls, with a
great view of the magnificent scene, as they all stop rowing, and just look at
it... MARLANA Almost makes you feel like
everything is normal... Silence as they just continue to watch it... Suddenly, a motorboat can be seen, leaving near the
shoreline, at the falls. It is coming right their way. DJ Oh, s**t! Panic taking over all their expressions, as they begin to
row. DJ It's useless rowing. Just get
ready to fire, but only if we have to! All of them readying their guns... As it gets closer, they can come to see that a white
flag, is being waved from the motorboat. PAUL That's a good sign, I hope... NOAH It looks like...Multnomah
Sheriff's Patrol! DJ I don't know if that's a good
thing, or not... LOUD SPEAKER FROM
BOAT This is the Multnomah Sheriff's
department. Please do not give us a reason to open
fire! We mean you no harm... They all look on, as the Multnomah Sheriff's Patrol
motorboat, speeds by them. Several officers aiming guns right on them, but not
firing... The group all looks amongst one another, as the boat
turns back around and slows down, while coming right at them... DISSOLVE TO: EXT. MULTNOMAH FALLS - DAY Close-up of the falls, panning back as people stand on
the bridge and hike the trails around it. POV pans back more, coming to a
sheriff, with DJ and the others. SHERIFF DAVE All in all, there are
thirty-seven of us, here. Five officers, including myself,
four US soldiers, and the rest are family and a handful
of civilians. With some serious firepower, we've
been able to keep away anyone looking for
trouble, so far... DJ How much trouble from the dead? SHERIFF DAVE (shaking head) We've seen it, but no trouble
at all. We've seen some herds, while out on
patrol, and we know what to do if one comes here. DJ Are you worried about the fire? SHERIFF DAVE (nodding) I sure was, at first, but the
wind has taken it more east, and rain should take care
of it, soon enough. DJ So, you like your chances of
surviving here? SHERIFF DAVE Supplies are running low,
weather will get rough, soon. So, as you can imagine,
your compound is very intriguing. DJ So, you'll join us then, with
your boat? SHERIFF DAVE (shaking head) Afraid I just can't do that. My
family and the people who have become my family,
depend on me and the people here, and that boat. We
will share whatever supplies you might need, some
food, and wish you all the luck in the world. If
you do make it, we'd appreciate you thinking about
us, if you ever make it out this way...with a
caravan. DJ Our chances of making it,
change dramatically, with your companionship...
(Dave shaking head) SHERIFF DAVE Highway 26 is a mess. You'll
have to go off-road at times, or most of the time.
Highway 6 is probably a mess, too. People fleeing to
and from the beaches. My boat and your journey on the
water is not the issue, it’s once you run out of
water. Sam discouraged... SHERIFF DAVE There's no guarantees on the
water, either. Eventually, it'll be flooded with pirates.
The best I can offer you is a radio. You run into any
trouble, while still in range, and I'll be there as soon as I
can... Dissolve to a few people walking around the lodge, a
couple tossing a frisbee, and one hanging clothes... Benny, Sandy, Paul, Tami, Noah, and Marlana are all
standing around, next to the lodge. Cut inside to the gift shop, where DJ, Eli, Sam and
Renee, look around. Benny and others can be seen outside. The room is just as
it would be, before the apocalypse. DJ They've really kept this place
up. Woman (Traci) walks inside, with a smile. TRACI We do our best. It gives people
a sense of normalcy. The entire place does. The
waterfall, the hike up to the top. It's not a compound,
but it's got hope... Eli somewhat rolling his eyes, as he flips through some
magazine brochures. Dissolve to Sam and her entire group, inside the
beautiful restaurant, filling their tummies. Sandy eats from a plate, as does
Bailey. Paul and Tami walk together, over to one of the many great views, this
one of the river. Marlana is enjoying her view of the falls. DJ is looking
around, taking in the beauty... He comes to see Sam, looking right at him... SAM We have beautiful places like
this, at the compound, too... DJ Do you have a waterfall? Sam giving him a smartass kind of look... SAM A river and a lake, but no, no
waterfall… There are trails, ball fields, swimming
pools, an entire neighborhood, a gym (Benny,
Paul, Tami, Noah and Marlana all wide-eyed, as she
goes on and on), a farm, animals, pack of dogs,
secret passageways, a park, camouflaged guard tree
houses... DISSOLVE TO: EXT. COLUMBIA RIVER - DAY DJ and those guys, all rowing away, with the falls in the
background... DJ takes notice of Sam eyeing the Multnomah Sheriff's
boat, with a disappointed expression… DJ When we make it to your
compound...we're totally not sending back a
caravan... ELI What he said... Sam giving DJ a dirty/amused look… DJ Kidding… Rowing in silence... Dissolve to everyone rowing along. Sam looks bored,
tired. Renee is resting her head against her hand, eyes opening and closing... Paul suddenly loses a paddle, as it hits something in the
water. PAUL S**t! Noah gets a peek of what looks like a kayak, submerged in
the water (what Paul's paddle made contact with), as he sails by it. NOAH There's a kayak under the
water. Jesus it looks like Thomas's! DJ sailing by it, taking in a good look... Benny sails by, slowing and reaching down, attempting to
bring the kayak up. Marlana and Tami come to it, on opposite side of Benny, and
begin lifting it upward... TAMI Yeah, it sure looks like his.
(straining) It's really weighted down. Suddenly, the kayak quickly flips upward, with Thomas's
body still stuck inside (kayak wrapped in tarp, keeping his body inside of it),
Tami is screaming and dangerously close, too close! Thomas snags her shoulder, with his teeth, and pulls her
out of the kayak, into the water, as he slips out of his own kayak, still
latched to Tami. Marlana was thrown from kayak, into water. Sam and Renee are
screaming... PAUL TAAAMMMMIIII!!! NOAH MARLAANNNA! Paul desperately rowing back toward the incident. Benny
is helping Marlana, up into his kayak. Noah rows toward them. DJ nervously
watches Paul (Sam in same kayak) rowing for his wife, who screams, as she goes
up and out of the water, still fighting and taking nabs from Thomas. PAUL TAMI! OH MY GOD, TAMI! DJ It's too late, Paul! Don't let
it get you, too! Renee holding hands over her ears, blocking the horrid
screams. Thomas finally sinks his teeth deep into Tami, who gives
a final scream, gargled by water, as she goes under, and is never seen again.
Thomas continues to somewhat resurface, but in no control of the water or
direction it takes him, as he begins floating away... Marlana is safe in Benny's kayak, Noah next to it, with
his arm over her back, as she weeps... Sam and Renee are crying. Eli sheds a tear. Paul stares
at the water, in too much shock to shed tears. He looks at everyone, then
places a gun to his head, and fires. Sam, Marlana, and Renee all scream. His body falls over
into the water. Sam fights to balance the kayak, but is in no shape to give it
a proper effort, as the it flips over, spilling her into the river. DJ/ELI SAM!!! DJ, Eli, and Noah all row toward Sam. She is in complete
shock, swimming and kicking her body, to avoid being bitten, as if huffs were
everywhere in the water. She screams, as DJ and others reach for her, securing
her, as Benny arrives. They all help lift her up into his kayak, where Marlana
grabs and holds onto her... They both weep. Renee weeps. Noah is shedding tears... They all sit there, in silence, weeping... Suddenly, Sam
screams at top of her lungs, while rising and looking to the water, toward her
flooded kayak. SAM BAILEY!!! DJ suddenly looks to the water. His POV of the carrier,
sinking. He looks over to Noah and Eli (who are directly next to his kayak). DJ Watch Renee! Hold the kayak,
don't let it flip! DJ dives into the water. Noah and Eli are holding onto
Renee’s kayak. DJ goes right for the carrier, pulling it up out of the water,
and raising, so that the water can fall out. Bailey is inside, freaking out and
spitting water. DJ swims it back to his kayak, placing it inside. He climbs in,
looking over Bailey. SAM Is he okay?! DJ I actually think he is... He opens door, pulling Bailey out. He is shaken and
soaked. DJ holds him up to Sam. She looks, and leans back in the kayak.
Everyone still in complete shock. DJ places Bailey back inside... They all sit there several moments, in silence, before
some of them slowly begin rowing... DJ comes to take notice of Renee, who is staring out in
the water, at something. As they come closer to it, they can tell it's one of the
other kayakers (from Thomas’s group), floating in the water, with help of a
life-jacket. As they get even closer, they can hear that it's a huff, groaning
at them as they go by it. As they continue to row on, they come by more and
more of them, floating along in their life-jackets. Groaning, but in no control
of themselves... DJ What happened to them? They continue to row, in silence. Sam closes her eyes.
Marlana is shedding tears. Noah is trying to make eye contact with her. She
eventually comes to look back at him... DJ begins reaching for radio. He turns it on, and speaks
into it. DJ Sheriff Dave, do you copy?....
I know we're probably out of range, but in a little
trouble.... Sheriff Dave?.... DJ holds it, listening to static for several moments,
before turning off... They row in silence... POV travels over all their solemn faces... DJ and Eli are the only ones who watch around, in front
of them, behind them, and the shoreline, for whatever trouble is lurking... They are all silent...as a short audio clip of "The
Doors - Riders on the Storm", plays (just the beat and sound of
water/rain) while scene dissolves. Dissolve to everyone still quiet, as they row along. Wind
has picked up. Sam (still wet) is freezing. The audio clip now ends, just as
Eli becomes totally still, looking and pointing toward the south side
shoreline. DJ quickly turns to look. Now everyone looking... Their POV of several kayaks leaving the shoreline,
straight their direction. More kayaks are still taking off. One after another.
There is close to a dozen, already. A few more take off, before it ends. Maybe
fifteen, coming straight for them. It's a wide river, they are still far from
them. ELI What do we do?! DJ (looking toward
opposite shoreline) Racing doesn't sound
promising...maybe go to shore, hide? (shrugging) Or
hide and shoot them before they can dock? They all begin rowing toward shore... Dissolve to POV through the trees, of the river, as a
dozen kayakers work their way inland. Cut to Sam aiming a gun at them... POV travels over Eli, DJ, and all the others, aiming guns
at the kayakers, except for Renee, who sits off a way, with both Sandy and
Bailey (in carrier). The kayakers are nearing the shoreline. DJ silently
signals everyone, then takes the first shot. He hits one of them, knocking them
right out of the kayak. Everyone else opens fire, and it quickly turns into a
massacre. Several of the kayakers quickly turn, and row away (firing a few
shots as they retreat), but the rest are dead or badly wounded in the water... DJ walks toward the shoreline, stops, and watches... DJ We just gave them our best
punch...let's hope they don't get back up. Dissolve to DJ and all of them, dragging their
kayaks/supplies, alongside the river... DJ Okay, this is good enough.
We'll row close to the shoreline for a while...stay
out of their sight, in case they're watching... They begin dragging everything toward the shoreline, and
into the water. They pack and set everything for travel, and push off. They row
close to the shoreline... ELI You really think they're still
watching? DJ (shrugging) No idea, but they could be. Or
someone else could be. I don't know. I'm
just...trying to be prepared... Everyone looking every which way, in silence... They all flinch, and look at the shoreline side they just
came from, as a loud banging noise is heard. It's a huff, falling over garbage
cans, trying to head their direction. 3 more huffs are behind it. DJ notices people inside the house, behind the curtains.
They watch as the huffs walk away from their house. Renee and others take
notice of a pair of huffs in the water, they appear stuck, in water to their
chest. DJ leads kayakers out a little further...then even further... DJ Can't take any chances. Some of
them could be stuck and submerged. I don't
want anyone to be knocked over by one. They all look around, and down at the water, and out and
about...scared/nervous about everything, as they row in silence... SAM I killed someone... Everyone looks at Sam... They row in silence... ELI Me too…at least he’ll be dead,
soon… More silence… Dissolve to DJ now leading everyone toward middle of
river. There are cars in background (on North shoreline side, side they want to
stay close to) driving along the road. DJ is looking toward other shoreline
(South side). He squints, and can see what looks like several motorcycles,
driving through the abandoned cars, on I-84... DJ keeps toward the middle, with eyes on both shorelines.
Eli is doing the same, as are the rest of the adults... Sam is dazing, as Marlana rows... Renee has her head down, resting, but looking outward... DJ We have to get as far as we
can, before we camp. NOAH We need to be picky with
finding a place...a safe place. The shoreline might not
work. DJ nodding... ELI You guys are being paranoid. We
destroyed those people. DJ It's not even them I'm worried
about. Like the sheriff said, pirates will take
over these waters, soon...if not already... BENNY In the worst ways imaginable... MARLANA People are so ugly... Everyone rows, in silence... Dissolve to evening, as everyone is rowing inland, toward
north side shoreline... DJ Once on shore, we go inland,
asap. NOAH We should probably go at least
a half mile in. DJ Agreed...(looking at Sam) Then
tomorrow we make it to the St. Johns
bridge. Sam forces a half smile... They are coming up on the shoreline. Renee suddenly sees
something, and immediately points. DJ looks. He can't see anything. Then he spots several
motorcycles. BOOM, loud gunshot fired. Noah is shot, instantly falling
over dead, into the water, with a scream from Marlana. MARLANA NOAH! Eli fights to keeps the kayak balanced (after Noah fell
out), as he moves to the middle. DJ and Marlana (in shock, crying) begin
turning around, as several men come out, from behind trees or from inside the
brush. They open fire on the kayakers, who are turned around and desperately
rowing back out into the river. Sam watches a shot just miss Sandy, as it goes through
top part of kayak. She watches several more shots go into the water, near her
kayak. She looks up, as more shots are fired into the water, near both DJ and
Eli's kayaks. Now she looks up, as a shot goes right through the chest
of Benny. She watches it happen, directly in front of her, as he leans over,
falling out of kayak, into the river. Sandy jumps right in after him. Renee
screams. Sam's kayak is simply drifting now, as Marlana is still
in too much shock, after her husband's death. She is looking toward his body,
floating toward the shoreline. DJ (yelling) ROW, MARLANA! ROW! Marlana snaps out of it, and begins rowing. Shots are
slowing down, but a few still fired, and missing. The shooters are out of ammo,
and watching from shoreline. One of them is on a radio. The rest, run to their
motorcycles. Sam watches Sandy, barking/wimpering for Benny. Renee is
crying. Sandy begins swimming toward Sam's kayak, but can't catch up, she turns
and swims toward shore. Benny becomes a huff. Sandy swims toward him. He is
snapping at her, but unable to reach her, as he floats in the water with his
life-jacket. Sandy seems confused. Renee cries as she watches. Sam also
watching, with a quick flash of her father, biting into Merry. Sandy begins
going back toward shoreline, again. They all watch, as Sandy climbs up onto shore, looking
back at them. They are still heading toward middle of river... RENEE We have to go back for her!! DJ We can't, Renee. We can't... Renee weeps like never before. Sam begins weeping
herself. Marlana has not yet stopped crying, while rowing... Sandy watches from the shoreline, simply sitting and
quietly whining, as they row further and further away... DJ looks outward, he can see the Glen Jackson Bridge
(1-205)... He begins looking all directions, especially back behind
them... ELI What now? DJ I saw one of them on a radio...
They must have more people, nearby... ELI We're screwed... DJ rowing hard, using body language to inspire Marlana to
row, harder. Everyone silent, except Renee and Marlana, still crying.
Renee stares toward the shoreline, looking for Sandy. DJ looks from her, to
Marlana... DJ (speaking to
Marlana) Marlana...you're still with
people who care about you...people who need you. I
know you're hurting, like we are, and have for some
time now... I'm going to mourn with you, later
tonight...when we're all safe... She looks up at him, musters a half nod, and begins
rowing harder...while still shedding tears... DJ looks at Renee...he almost says something, but decides
against it... They row in silence... DJ comes to see the motorcycles, on the north side,
through the brush/trees/houses, riding on the highway. The view of them goes
away. DJ is thinking... He begins scanning the shoreline of the bikers, then
looks at the bridge, then to the opposite shoreline, and back to the biker side
shoreline... DJ (kind of speaking
to himself) They can't see us right now.
They have that radio... DJ just thinking, as Eli stares at him... DJ We need to go to shore, this
(motioning to biker side) side, before anyone else
comes behind us... but not yet...not until we give
them more area to cover...in case they search for
us... ELI Are you sure? Silence... DJ Not at all... Silence... ELI What? Silence...everyone looking to DJ for the answer...he just
shakes head... DJ I don't know... I don't know... DJ just zoning ahead, as he and others row, in silence... Suddenly, Eli goes wide-eyed, and points behind them.
Everyone turns. Their POV of several kayakers, gaining ground, their
direction... DJ begins rowing to biker side shoreline, as others
follow, while panicking... DJ Row, Renee, row! Everyone rowing hard... ELI They're coming fast! They keep rowing, as fast and hard as they can, but
Marlana rows alone, and still shaken up, exhausted... DJ can hear motorcycles, as he looks, but can't see them.
He has panic all over his face, defeat taking over. Yet he continues to row. DJ Come on Marlana, row! We must
make it to land! Eli is now tiring, and falling behind... DJ Find your second wind,
All-Star! Eli trying to keep going strong... Marlana giving it her best, but fading... Renee is fading... Sam crying... Eli grabs his gun. DJ Keep rowing! The other kayakers open fire on them. Just a few shots.
They are making serious ground... Eli fires a shot back at them. DJ Save your ammo! Keep rowing! ELI It's no use! A few more shots are fired from other kayakers. Getting
closer... SOUND OVER PA
SYSTEM THIS IS THE MULTNOMAH SHERIFFS
DEPARTMENT. PUT DOWN YOUR WEAPONS! DJ and all of them quickly turn, to see Sheriff Dave's
boat, heading right for kayakers, who turn and open fire on him. Sheriff Dave
and others, fire back, and begin blowing them away. They pass them, turn, and
open fire on them again. DJ, Sam, and Eli, are all cheering. ELI HELL YEAH! Sheriff Dave turns boat around one more time, circling
back and finishing them off... He now cruises over to DJ and them... SHERIFF DAVE (as arriving) Somebody make a distress call? DISSOLVE TO: EXT. SHORELINE - DAY Sheriff Dave on his boat (docked) along with a couple
others, talking with DJ and his people. SHERIFF DAVE I tried to warn you guys. I
don't even feel safe out there, with this, let alone a
kayak, and no place safe to sleep at night... Now
please, get in and come back to the lodge, with me. I can tow
the kayaks... DJ looks at Sam, looking back at him. He looks to Eli and
Renee (still very upset), and to Marlana (quiet/sad). He shakes his head. DJ We've come this far...turn
around now and we'll lose any chances we have, of
using the river. He looks at Sam again... DJ We're one safe night's sleep
away, from pulling this off...that and...one trip
through the infested city...we got this... Dissolve to Sheriff Dave's boat now towing DJ and them
(inside of their kayaks). He tows them down river, until he points toward a
safe-looking location, and begins taking them to the north shoreline... Dissolve to DJ and all of them now on the shoreline,
towing their kayaks/gear (only 2 kayaks, now), with Sheriff Dave in background,
on river, heading back toward the Glen Jackson Bridge... DJ We can't take any chances, of
those guys scanning the shoreline area, all night.
I know we're all tired and hungry, but we have to keep
going... POV scanning over their worn-out faces, coming to Sam's.
You can see her thoughts, as scene dissolves... DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK (9 months ago) INT. BASEMENT - NIGHT Zane and Sam work on fighting techniques. Sam is doing
quite well, but exhausted. ZANE You are just sick, kiddo. Not
only mastering your moves, but I can see the
exhaustion in your face, yet you just keep going. You'd
go run a mile with me right now, if I requested
it. (she keeps coming at him) You're a machine! Fish walks into room, with waters, and a smile... FISH Like she's going to let her big
cousin see her ask for a break. What do you think she
is, a ten-year-old? Fish hands them both waters, as they stop and drink... FISH (looking at his
tired daughter) She'll be out, upon contact
with the pillow, tonight. SAM The reward of hard work, Zane
says. FISH (looking at her
with a smile) I'm pretty sure your dad has
said that once or twice, too. Zane smiling, Fish too. ZANE I'm just glad you didn't have a
son. He'd already be taking me! Sam instantly goes after him, making a skilled shot at
him, as he laughs... SAM Stop calling me a girl! Zane cracking up. Fish laughing too... SAM You know what I mean! Mr.
chauvinist! ZANE If you weren't just a little
girl, you'd be hitting me right now, but you can't! She's actually getting angry, over not being able to
break through his defensive moves. ZANE That's right! Be angry, over
being a little girl! Be stronger than that little girl!
Teach her how to survive! Teach her to be a
leader! Teach her to fight like a boy! Fish begins attacking Zane, forcing him to defend
himself, making it more difficult to block Sam's shots. ZANE What? You think I can't handle
a little girl, and a fish! Fish gets more aggressive, as Zane gets caught up in
defending his shots, and Sam finally makes contact with hers. Zane goes down,
pretending to be in real pain. Sam goes down to him, but is swooped up by his
arms. He immediately begins tickling her tummy, as she jumps in tickled
hysterics... DISSOLVE TO: INT. KITCHEN - MORNING Zane flipping pancakes, Sam eagerly waiting at counter,
on a stool. Fish enters kitchen, with car keys. FISH Appreciate you dropping her off
at her moms, later. But pancakes, dishes,
washing my car, actually working a vacuum
cleaner, and mowing the lawn, are things you don't
have to do, every time you crash here. ZANE I didn't wash your car... FISH I know, that's why I mentioned
it, what the hell's the matter with you?! Both Sam and Zane throw something at him. ZANE I missed staying with you guys.
Ever since I left home, I barely stay here
anymore. Fish starts quickly eating a pancake (without even
sitting). SAM Move in! FISH Then I get his place! SAM No! ZANE I wish you guys would just move
to the compound. It's like our own community
there. Plus, Dad doesn't even reside there. FISH I will someday, but not until
Sam grows up in the real world. Fish giving Sam a kiss on the forehead. FISH Bye-bye, sweetheart. Say hi to
your moms for me. I will see you next weekend. Fish goes over and tries to give Zane a kiss, but Zane
blocks it with a skilled maneuver. FISH (talking to Zane) Bye, sweetheart. Fish leaves with a laugh from Sam, as Zane flips a
pancake onto her plate... SAM I miss those days... I hated
you and Uncle Leo always fighting, but
understood... The good thing is, it meant you always staying
here. You were like a big brother to me, back then. ZANE You and your dad always made me
feel welcome, here. He
was like a big brother to me, growing up. Zane flipping himself a pancake... SAM Can I tell you a secret? ZANE You can tell me absolutely
anything. SAM I wish my dad would move to the
compound, too. I love it there! ZANE Yeah, I know. Your dad does,
too. I agree with his idea of raising you away from
there. That way you're never dependent on it,
and grow up being able to survive on your own. SAM Is that the only reason? Or is
he really scared of your dad? ZANE He’s not scared of him. He’s
just the most vocal with him, besides me, about
Mary, and his meds. Your dad is the one who tells
my dad, what he needs to hear…because he loves
his big brother… Zane smiling at her… DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME EXT. FIELD - DUSK Their worn-out faces, are now faces of complete
exhaustion, as DJ leads them into an old garage type of structure. They all
just sit, in silence... Sam opens Bailey's cage... Renee looks at Bailey, and
begins shedding some tears... DJ eventually forces himself to rise... DJ I'm sorry guys...if you don't
get back up now, you won't be able to, in five
minutes. Just have to fix an area to sleep, and
make a fire. I have enough fish for dinner. We can
worry about breakfast after we sleep. Dissolve to a very half-a*s camp, set up, fish leftovers
lying around, fire still burning, and all three kids in sleeping bags, totally
passed out. Marlana sits next to fire, weeping. DJ comes, sitting next to her,
placing hand around her... DISSOLVE TO: EXT. COLUMBIA RIVER - DAY Close-up of river water... Eventually, Sandy swims by, she comes to Benny, who bites
into her flesh, taking them both under, as the water above, becomes red... Dissolve to Renee, tossing and turning, as she sleeps... Dissolve to close-up of river water... Thomas and his kayak pop up, biting into Tami and taking
her back underwater, with him... Dissolve to Eli, tossing and turning, as he sleeps... Dissolve to close-up of river water... Sound of gunshot, as Paul falls into the water. Sam is
wide-eyed as she fights for balance, and looks at Paul, as she falls into
water. He is now a huff and ripping into her flesh, as she falls onto him. He
drags her underwater with his teeth... Dissolve to Sam, tossing and turning, as she sleeps... Dissolve to close-up of river water... Sound of motorboat, getting closer. Sheriff Dave zips by,
towing a water skier. The water skier is a huff. Sheriff Dave begins firing at
it. He hits it over and over, finally killing it, with a head shot... Dissolve to DJ, tossing and turning, as he sleeps… Dissolve to close-up of river water... Noah floats by, dead... He floats by again, as a huff... He swims by now, smiling and holding his nine-year-old
boy, also smiling... Dissolve to Marlana, tossing and turning, as she
sleeps... DISSOLVE TO: EXT. OLD GARAGE STRUCTURE - DAWN DJ slowly walking outside, where Marlana already has a
fire burning, with beans heating up. She looks and sees DJ...then looks
upward... MARLANA If there was still a weather
report, I'm thinking it'd be calling for rain. DJ Well...look at you... MARLANA I used my husband to survive
the last tragedy...I'll use the thought and image of him,
and our son, together, to get through this one... DJ (hand on her
shoulder) You are one special woman... She puts her hand over his hand... Sam walks out, soon followed by Eli... Marlana looks over
at them. MARLANA Hot beans, come and get it.
Need that energy. Today is the day... DJ heading inside. DJ I'll wake Renee... Dissolve to DJ and all of them, now hiking and dragging
along their kayaks/supplies. It's beginning to rain. There is a big hill to go
down, with the highway (highway 14) down below, and the river, less than a
quarter mile from the highway. The sound of motorcycles begins to be heard, as DJ
freezes, before leading them all behind an old shed, with brush, to hide
in/around. They watch down below, where motorcycles go by, heading west, toward
the Interstate Bridge. Suddenly, DJ spots something in the river, also heading
west. It looks like several kayaks. Eli takes notice of what DJ is looking
at... ELI Is that... DJ (nodding) God damn kayak gang, is what
they are... DJ just standing there, thinking, while he stares toward
kayakers... ELI What do we do? MARLANA That was my question... DJ still thinking, rain is beginning to fall harder... DJ It looks like three of them. If
that's the last of them, then we have a shot. SAM A shot? DJ Either they'll all go down the
river, to the mouth of the Willamette, or they'll
split up, and one of them will take the smaller
channel, through Hayden Island. We can take just
one
of them. MARLANA What if they turn around, or
guard both channels? DJ thinking... DJ (shaking head) I don't know what else to do? DJ looking at everyone... DJ We have weapons...we see
them...we row right at them...guns blazing... Eli nodding... They all begin walking downhill, while the rain really
picks up... DJ Be careful, it's getting slick. Suddenly, they can hear huffs, a lot of them, an entire
herd of them! They could hear DJ and them, dragging their kayaks/gear. The huffs begin falling down the hill, unable to find the
proper balance to walk down it. Some of them falling toward DJ and them, who
begin hurrying down the hill. Huffs are rolling past them, to the bottom. A
huff rolls over Eli, who drops the rope that tugs the kayak. Eli falls and
begins rolling, with the huff. SAM/DJ ELI! The huff is snapping at Eli, who finally pulls away and
begins to rise, while the huff continues rolling. DJ He didn't bite you, did he?! Eli shaking head. They all begin hurrying down the hill,
at an angle, as the huffs at the bottom, are now rising to their feet, coming
back uphill... DJ We need to get to the highway!
We can lose them on the other side. Renee slips, and rolls downward a ways. DJ RENEE! A couple huffs are dangerously close to her. One of them
reaches and has a hold of her. DJ NOOOOO!!!!! Suddenly, a dog begins growling, as it leaps into the
air, knocking that huff flat on the ground. Renee goes down for a second, but
rises, her face developing excitement. RENEE SANDY! Sandy runs and attacks the second huff, as DJ grabs
Renee, and they both run with the others. RENEE Come on, Sandy! Sandy is bitten, wait, no she is not. She just gets away, and goes running with them.
They reach the highway, dashing across it. They run through some grassy area,
into a yard, and disappearing in between the houses. The huffs are just now
crossing the highway, as the rain is now pouring... "The Doors - Riders on the Storm" begins
playing (8 seconds before lyrics begin, with sound of thunder and rain falling)
as scene dissolves... ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-SpyO6bcwc
) DISSOLVE TO: EXT. COLUMBIA RIVER - DAY Song playing, sound of rain. Rain is dumping. DJ and them in kayaks, pushing off into
river. DJ is in back, with Renee in middle, and Sam in front, rowing. Eli is in
back of his kayak, with Sandy in middle, and Marlana in front. Sandy barks... MUSIC "Riders on the storm... Riders on the storm... Into
this house we're born... Into this world we're thrown." They begin rowing outward, getting soaked in the rain.
They look back, as huffs begin coming over the hill, falling and rolling down
to the shoreline... MUSIC "Like a dog without a bone, an actor on his own,
riders on the storm." Sandy barking at the huffs. DJ and them all looking, as
they row. Their view of huffs, walking into water... MUSIC "There's a killer on the road. His brain is squimin'
like a toad." DJ stops looking at huffs, and looks out and about, over
the river in front of them... MUSIC "Take a long holiday. Let your children play." Marlana rowing, with hope of surviving. Sam rows, while
Renee stares at Sandy... DISSOLVE TO: MUSIC "If ya give this man a ride, sweet memory will die.
Killer on the road, yeah..." DJ and them looking ahead, as they enter the channel on
the left, the smaller one. A green bridge (Interstate Bridge) is up ahead, off
to the right, over the larger channel. Houseboats fill the smaller channel. The rain still
pours, as they all look around, and ahead, while they continue to row... BLACK Song continues (instrumentally) with credits... CREDITS THE END © 2024 Mike Decker |
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Added on December 31, 2018 Last Updated on March 24, 2024 Tags: The Walking Dead, Fear the Walking Dead, Zombies, apocalypse Author
Mike Deckervancouver, WAAboutMy daughter and I are huge Walking Dead fans, and have put together our own spinoff series, of it... Above The Dead It's an absolute emotional mess, and a total suspense/thriller... https://w.. more..Writing
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