Kahn: The Media Man

SCREEN BLACK.

SUPER:

"A free press can, of course, be good or bad, but, most certainly without freedom, the press will never be anything but bad. -Albert Camus, French Philosopher and Novelist."

These letters dissolve to a SCREEN BLACK.

FADE IN:

int. Kahn mansion (Living room) - night

MICHAEL KAHN, a thirty year old man with DARK BROWN HAIR, a Goatee and GREEN EYES wearing a TUXEDO, sits on a black leather sofa. The outside door is open, and RAIN can be heard pouring loudly outside. THUNDER BOOMS, and LIGHTING FLASHES, casting an eerie glow upon Michael.

Michael holds a glass of whiskey and chain-smokes a couple of cigarettes while looking over his shoulder. SUDDENLY, he DRAINS his drink.

Two men enter the room wearing BLACK CLOTHING and FEDORAS tilted so that SHADOWS conceal their identities. These men are called

JAMES CALLAHAN, who is essentially Michael's Doppelganger; James is much taller and has blond hair and blue eyes, and

THOMAS CHENEY, aid to Mayor Carl Schmidt, is a short, bulldog of a man.

NOTE: IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THEIR IDENTITIES ARE NOT REVEALED IN EITHER THIS SCENE OR THE LAST SCENE.

Thomas enters first. The floor CREAKS under his feet. Michael JUMPS as though shot from a cannon. After a second, a look of recognition emerges on Michael's face.

Michael kahn

You scared the shit out of me.

He speaks with the smooth bravado of ORSON WELLES.

James enters the room. Michael looks at this man with a sense of sadness. At once, he senses danger, and his eyes WIDEN.

Michael kahn

What the fuck are you doing here?

SERIES OF SHOTS - THE MURDER OF MICHAEL

A) Thomas and James close in on Michael.

B) Michael backs away from them.

C) Thomas and James pull out SMITH AND WESSON MODEL 10 REVOLVERS.

D) ECU of the REVOLVERS

E) They SHOOT Michael.

F) Michael FALLS to the ground.

BACK TO SCENE

Thomas and James pick up their SHELL CASINGS and RUSH out of the mansion.

dissolve to:

int. kahn mansion (living room) - moments later

Michael lies on the floor, CRINGING in incredulous pain. Blood DRIPS from his quivering mouth.

MICHAEL KAHN

(barely audible)

Why?

Footsteps can be heard coming down a set of stairs in a rapid succession. LOLA SCHMIDT, a gorgeous, blond woman with blue eyes wearing a BLACK DRESS with WHITE pinstripes, emerges from the stairway. She SOBS loudly.

Lola holds Michael's head in her lap. Michael COUGHS blood on her dress.

SUPER: "Kansas City, 2011."

Lola dials "9-1-1" into her phone, while she CRIES her eyes out.

cut to:

ext. kansas city sun - day

The KANSAS CITY SUN is a fictional newspaper firm, similar to the KANSAS CITY STAR. The day is sunny, without a cloud in sight.

SUPER: "Two years previously."

A clean-shaven Michael and James get out of a black Ford Taurus. Michael was driving.

  MICHAEL KAHN

What's your point, Jimmy?

James speaks in a hesitant and stammering manner.

James Callahan

She's married. I mean, I don't see this endin' well for you, pal. That's all I'm sayin'.

Michael and James walk towards the Kansas City Sun office building.

MICHAEL KAHN

You don't even know her, Jimmy. I mean really, man.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Oh? And what's the young lady's name?

MICHAEL KAHN

(sarcastically)

Is that really important at a time like this? Her name?

JAMES CALLAHAN

(equally sarcastic)

Oh, I see that you two are off to a great start. What street corner did you pick her off of again?

MICHAEL KAHN

Next to your mother's.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Mom's been dead for two years. Went cold much sooner though.

MICHAEL KAHN

She didn't feel that way.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Oh...well, bet she enjoyed it.

MICHAEL KAHN

Well, her mouth said no, but her body said yes.

JAMES CALLAHAN

(laughing)

That's awful.

Michael shrugs his shoulders. Michael and James enter the building.

cut to:

int. kansas city sun (Hallway) - continuous

Busy MEDIA PEOPLE SCURRY about the hallways, busy preparing stories for the upcoming newspaper.

Michael and James enter the building.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Back to a serious note- -

MICHAEL KAHN

Damn. You're always doing this, Jimmy.

JAMES CALLAHAN

(ignoring Michael)

How's your mom doin'?

MICHAEL KAHN

Hanging in there.

JAMES CALLAHAN

You seen her yet?

Michael and James reach a door that says, "Michael B. Kahn, Senior Analyst" in black letters.

MICHAEL KAHN

I suppose we ought to get some work done, Jimmy, before that Nazi gets here.

JAMES CALLAHAN

You ought to see her.

MICHAEL KAHN

Yeah. Yeah. Seen any good films?

JAMES CALLAHAN

You kiddin'?

MICHAEL KAHN

I don't care.

James laughs as he heads to his office. Michael grins as he enters his.

cut to:

int. kansas city sun (Michael's office) - continuous

Michael's office is moderately sized and unorganized. Books hang loosely from a bookshelf. Newspapers lie scattered about the floor. A picture of WILLIAM RANDOLPH HEARST hangs at an angle on the wall.

JACOB LUEGNER, a balding, sixty year old man with beady eyes and a sinister grin, paces the office. Michael enters the office, and Jacob keeps his back turned to him.

Jacob luegner

You're late, Mr. Kahn.

MICHAEL KAHN

No, Mr. Luegner, you're just on time. For once.

JACOB LUEGNER

I don't see the difference.

MICHAEL KAHN

Do you know what Luegner means, Mr. Luegner?

JACOB LUEGNER

I'm not here for your hebe jokes, Kahn I - -

While Jacob talks, Michael walks over to his desk and sits at it. Jacob sits down in a chair across from Michael, and Michael cuts him off before he can continue his rant.

MICHAEL KAHN

I assume you're here for a reason.

JACOB LUEGNER

Yes, actually, I need a favor.

Michael stares daggers at Jacob.

JACOB LUEGNER

Great men deserve great monuments to serve as testaments or testimonies...well, tokens, as it were, to mark a great transcendence in their respective societies. Men like Pulitzer...

Gesturing to the picture of Hearst.

JACOB LUEGNER

Hearst. Nobel and - -

MICHAEL KAHN

Etc. Etc.  Get to the point, Himmler; unlike some people in this office, I don't have the hedge funds to facilitate any sudden uselessness I might display. I cut hedges.

JACOB LUEGNER

(grinning)

I'd like for you to prepare a monument in my honor. One that shows the true love of my underlings.

Michael picks up a notebook and begins to read from it.

MICHAEL KAHN

(while reading)

And we just love being called that.

JACOB LUEGNER

Well, what do you say, Einstein?

MICHAEL KAHN

Can't Donny do it?

JACOB LUEGNER

Ha. You're a riot, Kahn; no, I was considering Jonathan, until you compared me to that sadistic piece of work.

He stands and pats Michael's shoulder.

JACOB LUEGNER

Don't let me down Kahn.

Jacob winks at Michael and walks towards the door.

MICHAEL KAHN

Aren't monuments usually dedicated to the deceased.

This stops Jacob in his tracks.

JACOB LUEGNER

What's your point?

MICHAEL KAHN

Who needs a point?

Jacob looks around the office.

JACOB LUEGNER

And you need to clean this shit hole up.

Jacob exits the office. As he is leaving, Michael crosses his arms to make a "fuck you" gesture.

cut to:

ext. hospital - evening

Around 6 PM. Typical fall evening in Kansas City. The last warmth of summer slips away slowly, and shadows creep over the sidewalks.

Michael smokes a cigarette in front of the hospital. He puts it out and enters.

cut to:

int. hospital - continuous

Outside of room 1123. Michael leans against the wall, rubbing his face in his hands.

PETER KAHN, who is slightly older than Michael and with dark hair and green eyes, exits the room. He and Michael exchange a look of slight recognition, before Peter walks away.

Michael enters the room.

cut to:

int. cheap hotel room - later

In a Motel Six, etc. A bottle of WINE sits on a night stand.

Michael and STACI, a red-headed woman wearing a red dress, KISS each other on a bed. Michael pours two glasses of wine, while kissing Staci. They stop kissing.

Michael hands Staci a glass of wine. They toast to each other. CLINK.

MICHAEL KAHN

Well, Staci, here's to four months.

Michael takes a sip of his wine, while Staci looks at the ground, insecure about the state of things. Michael, though, is unaware or self-delusional about her obvious dilemma.

Staci

Mickey, how long do you think we can keep this up?

Staci drains half of her glass.

MICHAEL KAHN

How do you mean?

staci

I just...I just don't know, Mickey.

Michael sets their glasses down.

MICHAEL KAHN

I think.

Michael kisses her and begins to lay her down on the bed.

MICHAEL KAHN

(while kissing her)

I think that you shouldn't think so much.

Staci pulls back playfully.

staci

That's easy for you to say.

MICHAEL KAHN

Ha. Ha.

Michael turns out the lights.

DISSOLVE TO:

ext. university of Missouri - night - dream

An AUDITORIUM. Graduation night, 2006.

Michael and SIX STUDENTS exit the auditorium, wearing graduation gowns. The other students flock around Michael like reporters around Johnny Cochran after the Simpson trial.

male student 1

So where to now, Mickey? New York?

FEMALE STUDENT 1

L.A.?

Male Student 2

San Fran?

MALE STUDENT 1

What, with all the fags there?

Michael stops. The students follow suit and circle around Michael.

MICHAEL KAHN

You know, homophobia is the Christian equivalent of coming out.

The other students laugh.

Female student 2

That could explain Bill Donohue. Or Hitler.

MICHAEL KAHN

They do have a lot in common.

MALE STUDENT 2

So where are you going?

MICHAEL KAHN

Kansas City.

The other students exchange dumbstruck expressions. Michael LAUGHS at their bemusement.

Female student 1

Why would you want to go back there?

DISSOLVE TO:

int. cheap hotel room - morning

Michael lies in the bed. Light shines brightly on his face.

Michael wakes up with a start. For the first time, we see that Michael lies alone in the bed. A little NOTE lies in Staci's place.

Michael notices the note and picks it up. He reads it over and over. He SMASHES the note into a ball and THROWS the note into a trash can.

cut to:

INT. KANSAS CITY SUN (MICHAEL'S OFFICE) - later

Still as messy as before. Michael lies on his desk throwing balls of paper into an overflowing trashcan. James stands next to the window, shaking his head.

Michael throws another paper boll. POP! It bounces off the trash. James sits himself down in a chair next to Michael.

MICHAEL KAHN

I put them on a pedestal. I'm too afraid to approach the good ones.

Michael grabs a nearby newspaper and CRUNCHES it into a ball.

MICHAEL KAHN

What does that leave me?

Michael throws the ball at the overflowing trashcan. Again, it BOUNCES off the pile of trash.

James Callahan

Ever try gettin' with a religious broad?

MICHAEL KAHN

Oh, one with fake morals?

JAMES CALLAHAN

Yeah, you can tell 'em how god doesn't exist.

MICHAEL KAHN

Yeah, well, then they'll be around for too long.

James puts his head in his hands and rubs his head.

JAMES CALLAHAN

You need help, Mickey.

A loud KNOCK comes from the door.

JAMES CALLAHAN

We're gettin' too old for this shit.

MICHAEL KAHN

Come in.

The door opens, and JONATHON TUCKER, the quintessential pushover intellectual wearing a tweed jacket with elbow patches, enters the room. James turns around to face him.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Hello, Johnny.

Michael sits himself up and looks at Jonathan.

MICHAEL KAHN

Hi, Lonnie.

Michael stands and sits in his chair behind the desk.

Jonathan Tucker

It's Johnny. I've been here for three years, Mr. Kahn.

MICHAEL KAHN

What do you want, Donnie?

JONATHAN TUCKER

(ignoring Michael)

Mr. Kahn, your presence is required in Mr. Luegner's office. Same with you, Mr. Callahan.

MICHAEL KAHN

Look, I told that Nazi that if my dad died, that he should save that information for my Christmas bonus.

JAMES CALLAHAN

I think you're bein' naive, Mickey.

MICHAEL KAHN

About the bonus or Vincent?

JAMES CALLAHAN

Both.

MICHAEL KAHN

You're right, Jimmy, you slick mic, you.

(doing De Niro)

Youuu.

JAMES CALLAHAN

(following suit)

Meee.

They LAUGH. Jonathan TAPS the floor impatiently with his foot. Michael looks at Jonathan and stands.

MICHAEL KAHN

We'll be there, Ronnie.

JONATHAN TUCKER

It's Johnny.

He leaves the room and SLAMS the door. After a few seconds James says...

JAMES CALLAHAN

This is strange.

MICHAEL KAHN

He probably wants to chew me out.

JAMES CALLAHAN

And me?

MICHAEL KAHN

Well, he probably didn't want you to feel left out. A generous guy is Luegner.

Michael pats James on the back.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Ha. Yeah, well...I'm not gonna touch that one.

MICHAEL KAHN

Well its not a pint o' Guinness.

JAMES CALLAHAN

You know, I'm surprised you never got into banking. Or accounting. Or law.

Michael and James begin to gather their belongings. They walk for the door.

MICHAEL KAHN

I'm surprised that you've managed to keep a job.

JAMES CALLAHAN

I got you this one, didn't I?

Michael kahn

We all make mistakes.

James Callahan

Say, why did you decide to get into Journalism anyways.

MICHAEL KAHN

Hitler once spoke of a "Jewish World Conspiracy" that would occur via modernity.

James looks utterly confused by this word.

MICHAEL KAHN

Advancements in civilization. Like transportation, communication, whatever.

Michael opens his office door.

MICHAEL KAHN

Well...I'm just doing my part.

James LAUGHS. Michael and James leave the office.

cut to:

INT. KANSAS CITY SUN (HALLWAY) - CONTINUOUS

The media people are less stressed than the day before. Obviously they're not on a deadline.

Michael and James walk past them. People greet them as they walk; clearly Michael is more popular.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Guess we all have our parts to play.

MICHAEL KAHN

Indeed.

JAMES CALLAHAN

(serious tone)

So Mickey - -

MICHAEL KAHN

Here we go...

JAMES CALLAHAN

(ignoring Michael)

Did you get around to visiting your mom.

MICHAEL KAHN

Yeah.

JAMES CALLAHAN

How's she doin'?

MICHAEL KAHN

Well, she's hanging in there. You know ma.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Yeah.

MICHAEL KAHN

Have you ever heard of a Doppelganger?

JAMES CALLAHAN

Sure.

MICHAEL KAHN

Ever seen one?

JAMES CALLAHAN

Yeah, I keep mine in my closet. He has pillow talk with women I have sex with, while I drink a pint o' Guinness.

MICHAEL KAHN

So he doesn't do a lot then?

JAMES CALLAHAN

Ha. Ha. Very funny.

MICHAEL KAHN

And let me ask you a question. So, every time you have sex with a woman, you come out of the closet?

JAMES CALLAHAN

No, my Doppelganger does.

MICHAEL KAHN

But your Doppelganger essentially is you.

JAMES CALLAHAN

No. He's my alter-ego.

MICHAEL KAHN

That's not helping your case much, Jimmy.

James grins; he knows that he's been beat.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Fuck it. What's your point with this Doppelganger business anyways?

MICHAEL KAHN

(grinning)

Well, after this display, I'd rather keep my thoughts to myself.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Fuck you.

MICHAEL KAHN

I saw someone at the hospital who looked just like me.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Figured that a chap like you would enjoy that.

MICHAEL KAHN

I just wonder if that was Peter. I think he's following me now.

JAMES CALLAHAN

You're right, Michael. We should change the topic.

Michael CHUCKLES.

MICHAEL KAHN

What would you say if I got a room full of mirrors?

Michael and James enter Luegner's office.

cut to:

int. Kansas city sun (Luegner's office) - continuous

Mr. Luegner's Office is neatly arranged and twice the size of Michael's. Johnathan sits in Mr. Luegner's chair. MRS. LUEGNER, an obviously pampered woman with full lips, sits across from him and continuously looks at her watch. TWO OTHER MEN, wearing black suits, are also present.

Michael and James STROLL into the room; James LAUGHS.

JAMES CALLAHAN

A room full of Mirrors? If you got that I'd have to hate you. Out of principle.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Gentlemen.

MICHAEL KAHN

Tommy.

JONATHAN TUCKER

It's...nevermind. This is Mrs. Luegner and also our two main accountants.

The two accountants wave.

MICHAEL KAHN

Someone's missing, but I don't miss him.

JONATHAN TUCKER

He's dead, Mr. Kahn.

Michael's eyes WIDEN in a joyous manner. He and James exchange grins.

JAMES CALLAHAN

How exactly - -

JONATHAN TUCKER

A hemorrhoid, Mr. Callahan. Now, I looked over his will.

Jonathan pulls out the WILL and puts on SPECTACLES.


MICHAEL KAHN

The man made haste.

JAMES CALLAHAN

He doth did so, or I am but a hart without a heart.

MICHAEL KAHN

I'd protest, good sir, but we mar his labor.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Are you gentlemen quite finished?

MICHAEL KAHN

Speak then, if room enough.

JONATHAN TUCKER

What's that?

MICHAEL KAHN

Read the damn thing.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Well, he made two requests regarding the Kansas City Sun.

He flips a page.

JONATHAN TUCKER

A. That his wife shall receive one hundred thousand dollars annually.

Mrs. Luegner suddenly focuses in on the conversation.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Also, that you two are to manage and operate the firm.

(under his breath)

May, god help us all.

MICHAEL KAHN

(fighting back laughter)

I don't fucking believe it.

Everyone looks at him.

JAMES CALLAHAN

I think what Mr. Kahn is tryin' to say is that he and I, uh, need to talk.

They head for the door.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Not so fast, gentlemen.

They stop and turn around.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Accounting has told me that if we can't reach one hundred thousand dollars in sales by the next quarter, then we'll lose our primary stockholders, which would force us to declare bankruptcy and, subsequently...

An accountant imitates a bomb exploding. The other accountant makes noises of screaming women and children. They LAUGH.

Jonathan tucker

(with great disgust)

What are you jackals laughing about? You work here too.

The accountants shrug. James's jaw DROPS. He paces the room nervously.

JAMES CALLAHAN

That gives us two weeks.

MICHAEL KAHN

Ha. That will be easier than cashing royalty checks.

James gives Michael a questioning glance. Mrs. Luegner GLARES at Michael.

MICHAEL

Come, Jimmy, we have work to do.

James and Michael leave the office.

cut to:

Int. Kansas city sun (james's office) - continuous

James's office is the same size as Michael's; however, it is much cleaner. Film Noir movie posters (from the forties and fifties) hang from the walls.

James and Michael enter the office. James closes the door.

MICHAEL KAHN

All this time I thought he hated me.

JAMES CALLAHAN

To be fair, Michael, he didn't leave us with forty virgins.

MICHAEL KAHN

True. Even in death, he is a pain in the ass.

James sits in his chair. Michael paces the office.

JAMES CALLAHAN

He was a little shit.

MICHAEL KAHN

The fucking asshole. A hemorrhoid. Of all things.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Right. Enough of that. We need to rally the troops, Mickey.

MICHAEL KAHN

Right.

(clapping his hands)

I got it. We can tell them that there...

cut to:

Int. kansas city sun (Conference room) - continuous

The Kansas City Sun EMPLOYEES sit around a conference table. Michael sits at the head of the table; James sits to his right side.

MICHAEL KAHN

(continuing)

...is some good news and some bad.

Michael stands and puts his hand over his heart.

MICHAEL KAHN

Jacob Luegner is dead. Now for the bad news.

Michael walks around the table and glances at all of his employees with a manner of confidence that says: "I'm in control."

MICHAEL KAHN

We have to make one hundred large in two weeks.

Murmurs of shock rise from the room. Michael stares at his employees with a wide grin on his face.

MICHAEL KAHN

Now, I know what you all are thinking. Mrs. Luegner is single, most likely D-T-F, and just waiting for you to go to her and tell her everything will be okay. But we've got shit to do.

The murmurs stop. The female employees GLARE at Michael. In the background, a male employee says "Yeah, I'm going to hit that." Another says, "You haven't yet?"

Michael walks to a DRY-ERASE BOARD and writes something on it.

MICHAEL KAHN

(while writing)

What we need is an angle...and a story.

Michael stops writing.

MICHAEL KAHN

Also, Jimmy and I are in charge. I have one rule: don't piss me off. Jimmy?

JAMES CALLAHAN

Don't piss me off either.

MICHAEL KAHN

You heard the man. Now go. Prosper.

Everyone leaves the room except for James. He reads the board, which says, "Get Mayor Schmidt". He LAUGHS loudly.

cut to:

int. Kansas city sun (Michael's Office) - moments later

Lola and an ATTORNEY, a shrewd looking man with a scowl present on his face, walk around Michael's office, which still is a mess, and newspapers TEAR under their feet.

Michael enters the office moments later. Noticing Lola, he is shocked but still pleasantly pleased with seeing her in a WHITE DRESS.

MICHAEL KAHN

Could I help you with something?

Lola schmidt

Where's Mr. Luegner?

Attorney

Lola, you ought to allow me to do all of the talking.

Michael stops and LAUGHS. He then walks to his desk and sits in his chair. Lola puts her hand on her hips impatiently.

MICHAEL KAHN

Could you tell your lawyer to wait outside; I'm a journalist so naturally I don't like to be around people who lie for a living. Or lawyers.

The lawyer GLARES at Michael.

LOLA Schmidt

He's not going anywhere. We need to see Mr. Luegner; he's got a lot to answer for.

MICHAEL KAHN

You don't know the half of it, sweetheart, but I'm guessing that you haven't heard the good news yet.

James enters the room.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Hey, Mickey, Johnny needs you.

MICHAEL KAHN

God damn it.

Michael stands.

LOLA SCHMITT

(incredibly mortified)

Don't use that blasphemy.

James looks at Lola, and Lola looks back at him. A look of recognition emerges on their faces.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Hey there.

James looks from Michael to Lola with an expression that says: "What does she want?." Michael shrugs.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Go see what he wants, pal; I'll handle this.

Michael LAUGHS and leaves the room, patting James on the shoulder as he leaves.

Michael kahn (O.S.)

I've had the job two fucking hours.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Where's Luegner, Jimmy?

JAMES CALLAHAN

Luegner's dead. You just met half of his replacement; I'm the better half.

James leads Lola and the attorney out of the office.

cut to:

int. hospital room 1123 - evening

VICKY KAHN, a weak looking old lady clearly facing her last days, lies in a hospital bed with all sorts of tubes attached to her. A heart monitor BEEP BEEP BEEPS, and one can hear a breathing machine assisting Vicky.

Michael enters the room, carrying BOUQUET of flowers. He sits right next to her; however, she does not seem to notice him until he speaks.

MICHAEL KAHN

Feeling better today, Ma?

Vicky nods.

MICHAEL KAHN

Good. Say, who was that man that was here yesterday?

VICKY KAHN

(barely audible)

I wish we had spent more time together...Mikey.

Michael nods gravely.

VICKY KAHN

I love you so much my - -

The heart monitor FLAT LINES, and Vicky GRASPS for her last breaths. A flurry of DOCTORS and NURSES rush into the room and try to revive her. Michael sits without emotion.

Screen fades to SCREEN BLACK.

SUPER:

"If the headlines are big enough, the news will be big enough. -Charles Foster Kane."

FADE IN:

Int. Kansas city sun (James's Office) - day

James and Michael look over some reports at James's desk, drinking coffee and chain smoking under a "No-Smoking" sign. Michael has a 5 o'clock shadow and bags under his eyes.

MICHAEL KAHN

Anything new on your end, Jimmy?

James callahan

Are you sure you're feelin' up to this?

MICHAEL KAHN

(holding back anger)

Jimmy, I asked you a question.

JAMES CALLAHAN

When is the funeral?

MICHAEL KAHN

(shouting)

Jimmy.

Michael's outburst shocks and scares James.

JAMES CALLAHAN

(stuttering)

Yeah, yeah. One, uh, one new hire-on.

MICHAEL KAHN

Jimmy, we're almost broke here.

JAMES CALLAHAN

No she's, she's really good. And, uh...use...useful.

Lola walks into the office, wide-eyed yet confident.

LOLA SCHMIdT

Hi, Jimmy, Mr. Kahn. Where's my office?

Lola's presence seems to relax Michael, who seems completely mesmerized by her.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Down the hall, Lola, but don't you start in a few weeks?

LOLA SCHMIdT

Yeah, but I'd like to get a glimpse of this place first.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Well, if you'd wait for just - -

LOLA SCHMIDT

I can manage, thanks. You two seem busy anyways.

She smiles at Michael and leaves.

MICHAEL KAHN

(astounded)

Her? Jimmy, I think you've lost your mind.

Michael picks up another report.

MICHAEL KAHn

I just hope she isn't a daddy's girl.

JAMES CALLAHAN

She isn't.

Michael shoots James a questioning look.

JAMES CALLAHAN

I would know. I almost married her.

Michael nods. They continue to look over the reports.

MICHAEL KAHN

It's Saturday.

James looks up slowly.

MICHAEL KAHN

The funeral, I mean.

James looks back over the reports.

JAMES CALLAHAN

You goin'?

Michael rubs his forehead.

MICHAEL KAHN

You don't give up, do you?

JAMES CALLAHAN

Just tryin' to help you out pal, ya know?

Michael and James look at each other. Michael nods and looks back over his reports. After a few seconds, James follows suit.

MICHAEL KAHN

We've got that thing in a few months.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Luegner's thing?

MICHAEL KAHN

Yeah.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Any ideas?

Michael smiles for the first time this scene.

cut to:

ext. Elmwood cemetery - later

Jewish section of the cemetery. Michael sits in front of Vicky's COFFIN without displaying emotion. Other PEOPLE are also present. They CRY and wipe tears from their eyes. DAVID EISNER, an elderly RABBI, blesses the coffin.

David finishes his services, and the the congregation leaves. Peter Kahn walks past the coffin. He turns his head and GLARES at Michael.

David approaches Michael and begins to talk to him MOS, while Michael stares back at Peter.

DREAM SEQUENCE

DISSOLVE to:

INt. Kahn house (Michael's room) - night

Eight year old MICHAEL KAHN lies awake in his bead. VINCENT KAHN and Vicky HOLLER inaudible nonsense to each other. Finally, we distinctly hear.

VINCent kahn (o.s.)

I'm fucking leaving.

vicky kahn (o.s.)

Vinnie. Why?

VINCENT KAHN (O.S.)

I saw the way you were looking at that guy.

Something CRASHES in Vicky and Vincent's room.

VINCENT KAHN (O.S.)

Whore.

Vicky CRIES.

VICKY KAHN (O.S.)

I don't know him, Vinnie, honest.

VINCENT KAHN (O.S.)

Fuck you. I'm not stupid.

Their door SLAMS against the wall.

VICKY KAHN (O.S.)

What about the kids? Mikey's eight.

VINCENT KAHN (O.S.)

Michael is stupid and weak. He'll be nothing.

The door SLAMS shut. Vincent's footsteps can be heard STOMPING, the sounds growing softer until nothing is heard.

Michael looks out of his window. He sees Vincent walk out of the house and enter his car. Michael CRIES. A single tear SPLASHES on the windowsill.

SCREEN BLACK

male voice (v.o.)

Wake up, Mickey.

cut to:

int. Kahn house (michael's room) - day

RYAN KAHN, a man with dark hair and brown eyes, sits next to Michael.

Michael wakes up slowly.

ryan kahn

Get dressed. I'm driving you to school today.

Michael gets out of bed. Ryan leaves the room.

cut to:

Ext. Kahn house - continuous

Middle-Class house in a suburban neighborhood.

Ryan and Michael leave the house. They enter Ryan's Black '89 Mustang.

cut to:

Int. Ryan's mustang - continuous

Ryan sits in the driver's seat. Michael sits in the opposite seat.

Ryan pats Michael on the shoulder.

RYAN KAHN

Look, Mickey. Dad, I mean Vincent, left last night.

michael kahn

I know. I heard everything.

RYAN KAHN

Oh.

Ryan pulls out of the driveway.

MICHAEL KAHN

He said I was weak and stupid. That I'd be nothing.

Ryan SLAMS on the breaks, which SCREECH loudly, and pulls over to the side of the road. He looks at Michael.

RYAN KAHN

Mickey. You are not stupid. You are not weak.

Ryan starts driving again.

RYAN KAHN

Nothing that man says or has said matters. He's not dad. He's Vincent.

MICHAEL KAHN

What if he comes back?

RYAN KAHN

I don't think he will, but I know that someday, Mickey, you'll be a success.

cut to:

int. kahn house (Kitchen) - day

A fourteen year old Michael sits at a kitchen table and reads a book.

ryan kahn (v.O.)

You won't do it to prove him wrong. You'll do it for yourself.

MICHAEL KAHN (V.o.)

What about Peter?

RYAN KAHN (V.O.)

He'll need to straighten his ass out.

MICHAEL KAHN (V.O.)

And mom?

RYAN KAHN (V.O.)

I'll help mom out. You just worry about you. Go to Temple with me, play sports. Do well in school. And Mickey...

MICHAEL KAHN (V.O.)

Yeah?

RYAN KAHN (V.O.)

I'll take care of everything. Don't worry.

Ryan and Vicky, who has dark hair with gray streaks and dark, tired eyes, walk into the kitchen. Vicky holds a LETTER.

RYAN KAHN

That stupid asshole. Hey Mickey.

VICKY KAHN

Mikey, honey, can you leave for a sec.

Michael closes his book.

RYAN KAHN

No. Mickey can stay.

Vicky gives Ryan a questioning look.

RYAN KAHN

Ma, he's smart. He'll figure it out eventually.

Vicky and Ryan light up cigarettes.

VICKY KAHN

How are we going to pay for a lawyer?

RYAN KAHN

I'll figure something out. That's not the issue though.

VICKY KAHN

We'll just have to talk to Peter.

RYAN KAHN

He's not going to come back. He's a seventeen year old drop out pushing- -

VICKY KAHN

(defensively)

Okay. Okay.

Michael looks from Vicky to Ryan. He stands and fixes himself a glass of water.

MICHAEL KAHN

I can get a job if you guys need money.

Ryan looks at Michael as though he couldn't be any prouder of him. Ryan then frowns.

RYAN KAHN

No.

Vicky spreads her arms in confusion. She looks from Ryan to Michael.

VICKY KAHN

Ry, we could use - -

RYAN KAHN

No, ma. Mickey, I know you want to help...

Ryan shakes his head and paces the room.

RYAN KAHN

No. This isn't your burden. Just keep doing what you have been.

cut to:

Int. kahn house (Living Room) - night

Ryan reads over some bills on the coffee table.

Eighteen year old Michael walks into the room. He throws his backpack onto the ground and stretches triumphantly. He STRUTS towards Ryan until he stands before Ryan. Ryan rubs his eyes and yawns.

RYAN KAHN

What do you say, little brother?

Michael grins widely.

MICHAEL KAHN

I was accepted to Yale.

Ryan JUMPS from his seat as though shot from a cannon. He gives Michael a firm handshake and SLAPS him on the back. He releases his grip and rubs a tear from his eye.

Ryan SCOOTS into the kitchen.

RYAN KAHN (o.s.)

What'll it be Mickey? Beer? No, you like bourbon and coke.

Michael sits on the couch and puts his feet on the coffee table.

MICHAEL KAHN

I'm not going there, though.

Ryan SLAMS a glass onto the counter top.

MICHAEL KAHN

I'm going to Mizzou. They're going to pay me to go there. To live there.

Ryan walks into the living room and paces the room.

RYAN KAHN

Look, Mickey, if it's about the money, I'll figure something out.

MICHAEL KAHN

It's my call.

Ryan looks at Michael and nods. He sits himself next to Michael.

RYAN KAHN

Well...you're the man. You have been since you were eight.

MICHAEL KAHN

No, Ryan.

Ryan lights two cigarettes. He hands one to Michael, and they smoke.

RYAN KAHN

I'm serious, Mickey. Vincent called you worthless. Look at you now.

Michael blows a smoke ring.

MICHAEL KAHN

Because of you.

RYAN KAHN

No. I helped out. You did the rest. But...

Ryan puts his arm around Michael.

RYAN KAHN

Don't forget about ma. Ever.

Michael nods.

END OF DREAM SEQUENCE

DISSOLVE TO:

int. Kahn Apartment (Bedroom) - night

Michael tosses and turns in his bed. Michael's room is as messy as his office. It's cluttered with notebooks, novels and old newspapers.

MICHAEL KAHN

(mumbling)

Ryan...

Michael wakes up with a start. He gets out of his bed and walks to his bathroom.

cut to:

int. kahn apartment (bathroom) - continuous

Small apartment bathroom. As messy as Michael's room. Hair gel, razors, shaving cream and toothpaste containers scattered about. Red facial hair lines the sink.

Michael STUMBLES into the bathroom and grabs the toilet. He VOMITS multiple times. Michael stands and washes his face over the sink. He exits the room.

cut to:

INT. KAHN APARTMENT (BEDROOM) - Continuous

Michael sits at his desk in the corner of his room with the desk light shining brightly.

Michael writes something into a notebook. SUDDENLY, he CACKLES heavily, like a mad scientist discovering something new and monumental.

MICHAEL KAHN

He's going to roll in his fucking grave.

Michael LAUGHS heartily now and continues to write in his notebook.

cut to:

ext. restaurant - day

Michael and James look over their menus upon an average restaurant's patio. Michael appears to be fighting to remain awake.

CARL SCHMIDT, the tall, lanky and weak-minded MAYOR of Kansas City, and Thomas Cheney notice them and approach their table. James seems perturbed by their presence; Michael doesn't react.

MICHAEL KAHN

(still reading the menu)

You know our dear mayor, right Jimmy?

JAMES CALLAHAN

I've read about him, Mickey.

Michael and James LAUGH at this.

Carl Schmidt

Mr. Kahn, we don't like the current direction of your paper.

Michael shrugs and leans back in his chair.

Thomas cheney

We feel as though you're abusing your rights.

MICHAEL KAHN

I don't care how you feel.

Michael resumes reading the menu.

MICHAEL KAHN

I didn't vote for you.

Thomas HITS the table with his fist, and Michael's drink spills on Thomas.

THOMAS CHENEY

(while cleaning himself)

We're willing to sue, Kahn.

MICHAEL KAHN

Carl, control your dog; he annoys me.

Carl pats Thomas's shoulder. Thomas nods.

CARL SCHMIDT

Consider that fair warning, Kahn.

Michael's arms begin to SHAKE. His eyes light up with fury.

JAMES Callahan

Do you want me to - -

MICHAEL KAHN

No, Jimmy.

Michael stands and attempts to regain his composure.

MICHAEL KAHN

Here's your warning, Carl.

Michael strides around the table, approaching Carl and Thomas.

MICHAEL KAHN

The people love us. You sue us, they'll hate you.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Besides, Mr. Mayor, they only read what they believe anyways.

MICHAEL KAHN

That's the truth, Carl. Now leave.

(grinning)

You're making our server nervous.

Carl turns around and sees A SERVER, who looks mortified. Carl and Thomas STORM off angrily.

cut to:

Int. Kansas City Sun (Lola's Office) - day

Same size as Michael and James's offices. Boxes lie on the floor; the rest of the office is empty.

Lola moves to a  box and opens it. She places a BIBLE and a ROSARY onto her desk. She removes her other belongings out of boxes and places them in their respective locations.

Michael enters the office. but Lola does not notice him. Michael COUGHS, and Lola JUMPS in surprise.

MICHAEL KAHN

Oh, sorry. I didn't mean to - -

LOLA SCHMIdT

No, it's fine.

An awkward silence fills the room.

MICHAEL KAHN

I just came here to welcome you to the paper.

LOLA SCHMIdT

Thank you.

Lola resumes unpacking her belongings.

MICHAEL KAHN

(reluctantly)

I'm Mickey Kahn.

LOLA SCHMIdT

(grinning)

There's no need to introduce yourself. We've met. Two times actually.

MICHAEL KAHN

Oh, right, well...anyways...welcome.

Michael walks towards the door. He stops and turns around.

MICHAEL KAHN

Hey, if you're not busy Friday night, would you like to see a movie with me?

Lola turns around and says nothing. Michael rubs his head and shuffles awkwardly.

MICHAEL KAHN

Perhaps a dinner is in order as well? I mean, if you don't want to...

LOLA SCHMIdT

No, I think I'd actually enjoy that.

Michael appears shocked but smiles. Lola smiles in return.

MICHAEL KAHN

(pointing to the door)

Great. Great. Well, I need to...

Michael walks into the frame of the door and shakes his head; he leads himself out of the office. Lola LAUGHS at Michael after he leaves.

Lola picks up her phone and DIALS a number.

LOLA SCHMIdT

Hi, Jimmy, it's Lola. You're not going to believe this.

cut to:

INT. KANSAS CITY SUN (MICHAEL'S OFFICE) - day

Michael and James sit in the office. The office is cleaner that it was previously.

SUPER: "Three weeks later."

Michael reads Camus's the "The Stranger"; James reads a newspaper.

JAMES CALLAHAN

This film critic is fantastic.

MICHAEL KAHN

Oh yeah?

JAMES CALLAHAN

Yeah. "Hollywood recycles story ideas..."

James opens the newspaper wider.

JAMES CALLAHAN

"...and the audience suffers." It's bad ass.

MICHAEL KAHN

Isn't that your story?

JAMES CALLAHAN

Yeah, well, it's still bad ass. A fuckin' masterpiece.

He turns a page.

JAMES CALLAHAN

What's the German word?

MICHAEL KAHN

Meisterstueck.

JAMES CALLAHAN

(mispronouncing the German)

Meisterstueck. It's a fuckin' Meisterstueck.

MICHAEL KAHN

Dear god.

James LAUGHS

MICHAEL KAHN

We've got enough narcissism with me in the room. Now you? Say, when does your plane leave for Cancun, anyways?

James looks at his watch.

JAMES CALLAHAN

I'll need to leave soon, but I need to discuss something with you.

MICHAEL KAHN

Okay, shoot.

Before James can ask his question, Jonathan walks into the room with a look of joy in his eye.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Mr. Kahn, Mr. Callahan, I have great news.

Jonathan pulls out a piece of paper.

MICHAEL KAHN

Yes, Lonnie?

JONATHAN TUCKER

(ignoring Michael)

We have grossed three hundred thousand in the last month,

JAMES CALLAHAN

That's a lot of papers.

MICHAEL KAHN

That's no lie. So we're clear then?

Jonathan frowns slightly.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Well, not exactly. But at this  rate - -

Michael SLAMS his book on the desk.

MICHAEL KAHN

How far did that motherfucker let us slip?

JAMES CALLAHAN

(briskly, folding the newspaper)

Kill the king, Mickey, not the pawn.

MICHAEL KAHN

Well, Johnny?

JONATHAN TUCKER

Pretty far. If you'd like to go to my office to discuss this- -

MICHAEL KAHN

(pointing at the door)

Lead the way.

Michael turns towards James.

MICHAEL KAHN

Sorry, buddy. Enjoy your trip. We can talk about that thing when you get back.

Michael and Jonathan exit the room. James GLARES at them as they leave.

cut to:

int. Cheesecake factory (Upper Level) - night

Lola and Michael eat at The Cheesecake Factory in Kansas City's Country Club Plaza. A bottle of SHIRAZ stands on the table.

Michael eats a PORK CHOP, and Lola eats a COBB SALAD.

LOLA SCHMIdT

I thought Kahn was a Jewish name.

MICHAEL KAHN

And so it is.

LOLA SCHMIdT

And so you're Jewish then?

MICHAEL KAHN

Eh, I don't believe in that part; actually I don't believe in much of that.

Lola opens her mouth to say something, but Michael BURSTS into a rant.

MICHAEL KAHN

But enough about me. I know me. I want to know about you? You've been drilling me these past few weeks. Look...

(grabbing Lola's hand)

I'd like to know what you think, and why you think it. I want to know what you think about abortion; not because I have a stance on the issue, but because just in case we have too much wine, that there always is that...that...fallback.

Michael SHAKES his head and looks completely ashamed of himself. Lola RUBS her head with her napkin. Silence emerges between them.

MICHAEL KAHN

I'm sorry. Wow, I...that sounded much funnier in my head. Damn.

Lola smiles.

LOLA SCHMIdT

I'm pro-choice.

Lola seductively sips from her wine glass.

cut to:

int. kahn Apartment (Michael's Room) - Continuous

The room is cleaner than it was before. A jazz song plays in the background.

Michael sits at his desk and writes in his notebook, grinning deviously.

LOLA SCHMIdT (o.s.)

Mikey?

Michael stops writing and closes his eyes, as though lost in a deep thought.

MICHAEL KAHN

My ma called me that.

Michael turns to face Lola, who stands NAKED by his bed.

LOLA SCHMIdT

Is it fine if I call you that?

MICHAEL KAHN

(grinning smugly)

Yeah. I can live with that.

Lola lays herself on Michael's bed. Michael closes the notebook and goes to his bed.

cut to:

INT. Kahn Apartment (MICHAEL'S ROOM) - later

Lola and Michael lie on Michael's bed. Lola lies in his arms.

LOLA SCHMIdT

Wow, I wasn't planning on that.

Michael sits up.

LOLA SCHMIdT

Where are you going?

Michael holds up a pack of cigarettes.

LOLA SCHMIdT

(childish)

Stay.

Lola hugs Michael around the waste. Michael resigns and lies back on the bed.

MICHAEL KAHN

I thought you were a devout Catholic.

LOLA SCHMIdT

(winking)

I don't believe in that part.

Lola smiles. Michael LAUGHS.

MICHAEL KAHN

That's good. Reminds me of a joke.

Lola looks at Michael with a questioning look.

MICHAEL KAHN

Did you ever hear the one about the Jew from Bethlehem?

LOLA SCHMIdT

No.

MICHAEL KAHN

Well, they told him his mom was a virgin. That poor bastard.

Lola shakes her head and frowns.

LOLA SCHMIdT

I meant to ask you something over dinner; don't you believe in God?

MICHAEL KAHN

We call it Yahweh.

LOLA SCHMIdT

Well?

MICHAEL KAHN

The idea makes sense. It's just that the religion part annoys me. I don't buy it. I don't need it. I only believe in me.

LOLA SCHMIDT

You don't make sense.

Michael readjusts himself.

MICHAEL KAHN

I believe there is a creator, but I don't believe it cares about us. The world of the creator is indifferent, therefore the creator's indifferent. Religion helps people accept this fact and their fate of purposelessness. I've found a purpose; I've negated this fate. Thus, I don't need religion.

LOLA SCHMIdT

What about things you can't control?

Michael gestures for her to elaborate.

LOLA SCHMIdT

Like the health and well-being of those around you?

MICHAEL KAHN

Religion doesn't stop suffering; it only helps people deal with it.

DREAM SEQUENCE

Dissolve to:

Ext. Mizzou Campus - day

UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA. Quad area. A sunny, spring day, with blue skies that stretch on for miles.

Michael, 21, walks through the quad area with an attractive girl.

Attractive girl

Dr. Bradley wanted me to ask you if you had any more thoughts about being chief editor.

MICHAEL KAHN

I think we have something much more important to discuss.

ATTRACTIVE GIRL

And what's that?

MICHAEL KAHN

(gravely)

Our sex life.

The attractive girl shakes her head and giggles.

ATTRACTIVE GIRL

We don't have one.

MICHAEL KAHN

I guess you see why we need to talk about it.

ATTRACTIVE GIRL

Well, I've been with Dan for two years.

MICHAEL KAHN

Tell Stan that you're ready for a real man. He'll understand

ATTRACTIVE GIRL

When I find one I'll tell him that, but you should be chief editor. We all think you'd be great for it. Dr. Bradley said that "the people" would appreciate it.

MICHAEL KAHN

I've told that old fool that I've done plenty for the people, but we're getting off topic.

ATTRACTIVE GIRL

No, you're getting off topic. Just tell me why?

MICHAEL KAHN

Well you're beautiful. Great legs. Stunning smile.

ATTRACTIVE GIRL

Stop it.

MICHAEL KAHN

Alright. I don't want to be responsible for people who won't listen to me.

Michael and the attractive girl stop walking in front of a school building. She is speechless.

MICHAEL KAHN

Now, I'm going make a deal with you. You run off to class like a good little girl, and I'm going to buy some bubbly. I'll be at my place. Later darling.

The attractive girl shakes her head and walks into the building.

cut to:

EXT. College HOUSE - CONTINUOUS

Old four-bedroom house. Handyman special. Close-by to campus. Beer cans and cigarette butts lie scattered throughout the yard. David Eisner sits on the front porch.

Michael approaches the house, carrying a brown bag; noticing David, he approaches him.

MICHAEL KAHN

Shalom, Rabbi.

(in German)

How's it going, my dear sir.

david eisner

(in German)

So you can still speak German. Good.

MICHAEL KAHN

(in German)

Naturally. What are doing here?

David looks at the ground and frowns.

DAVID EISNER

(sternly, in English)

Look, Michael, I need to talk to you in private. Is that possible?

A look of panic emerges on Michael's face. He understands that something is wrong.

MICHAEL KAHN

Sure. My roommates aren't here.

Michael leads David into the house.

cut to:

Int. College House (Living room) - continuous

Empty beer cans lie on the floor. Ashtrays full of cigarettes lie on a coffee table. The couches have patches. Random nick-knacks have been scattered in awkward positions.

Michael and David enter the room.

MICHAEL KAHN

I'd excuse the mess, Rabbi. But, after all, society says alcohol is the enemy, and the good books say to love your enemy.

DAVID EISNER

Look, Michael, I didn't come here to lecture you. I have some bad news.

David looks affectionately at Michael.

DAVID EISNER

Ryan was murdered last night. Apparently it was a mob hit. I'm really sorry.

Michael stares at a wall and rubs his eyes.

MICHAEL KAHN

So he was in mob, and now he is dead. Is that why you came down here, to tell me that?

DAVID EISNER

I figured that now more than ever you'd need God's love.

MICHAEL KAHN

The same God that would condemn a man like Ryan? Well...

(grimly laughing)

I'll give you a call when I need you.

David stands and heads to the door.

DAVID EISNER

I assumed you'd be upset. You wouldn't be human if you did not react to this kind of news, but, after all, as the lord giveth, so too must he taketh away. We are far below his wisdom, and it is not our duty to question his decisions. Like Job, we must be thankful for all that we have and carry on.

MICHAEL KAHN

Do you realize how stupid that sounds right now?

David sighs deeply.

DAVID EISNER

Understandably you probably wish to be alone right now. I'll be in touch, Michael.

Michael lights up a cigarette. David exits the house.

MICHAEL KAHN

You do that then.

cut to:

Int. COllege house (michael's room) - night

The room is dark and cluttered. The only light that shines comes from the desktop lamp.

Michael sits at the desk, writing into a small, BLACK BOOK.

MICHAEL KAHN (V.O.)

To Rabbi Eisner, a poem. "Leute denken jeden Tag, dass die Welt so schoen und nett ist, aber ich stellte dir jetzt eine Frag', weil du auch so schoen und nett bist; waehrend weiss das Gute ist, ist das Boese schwarz und schlau, aber wenn die Welt so einfach ist, warum sehe ich nur grau?" It means there is neither good nor evil. Only people acting in their best interest and, at times, in the interests of others. I'm done.

There is a soft KNOCK on the door.

MICHAEL KAHN (V.O.)

I forsake my faith.

The door opens and the attractive girl walks in wearing a TRENCH COAT. Michael closes the black book.

ATTRACTIVE GIRL

So, Michael, where's this champaign you promised me.

Michael slowly rises from his chair. The attractive girl opens the trench coat, revealing a skimpy piece of LINGERIE. Michael stares gravely at her.

ATTRACTIVE GIRL

Speechless? I figured you would be. You're right. We do need to...what was it? Oh that's right. We need to "discuss" our sex life.

MICHAEL KAHN

I'm not in the mood for this.

The attractive girl stands speechless.

MICHAEL KAHN

You need to leave. The champaign is in the fridge. It's yours. You ought to put your jacket back on, though. It's cold out there.

Michael walks over to her and picks up her jacket. He puts it over her shoulders. She SLAPS him hard across his face. Michael remains cold and emotionless.

ATTRACTIVE GIRL

You're a fucking asshole. You talk me up and then drop like I'm nothing.

MICHAEL KAHN

My brother just - -

ATTRACTIVE GIRL

Save it for someone who cares.

MICHAEL KAHN

Fuck you, you fucking slut. Get out of my room.

The attractive girl walks out of the room and SLAMS the door. Michael HITS a wall. He turns off the light.

Dissolve to:

int. kahn apartment (bedroom) - later

Michael and Lola lie in the spoon position. The TV in the room displays a DVD title menu from a romantic comedy.

Michael rolls around restlessly, waking up Lola. She SHOVES Michael until he awakes. Michael JUMPS up, GASPING for air, eyes full of tears, sweating profusely. Lola hugs him.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Are you okay, Mikey?

Michael breathes deeply, and sits on the side of the bed.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Mikey?

Michael stands up and wipes the SWEAT and TEARS off of his face. Lola stands up with him, and hugs him from behind. Michael turns around and kisses her.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Feeling better?

MICHAEL KAHN

Freudian.

LOLA SCHMIDT

What's Freudian, honey?

MICHAEL KAHN

I'm feeling Freudian.

(sarcastically)

I realized I have a girlfriend, so I had a nightmare about being in Auschwitz.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Now I'm confused.

MICHAEL KAHN

I'm Jewish.

LOLA SCHMIDT

And I'm German. Ha. Ha.

(sternly)

No, I'm trying to help you, and you're being a dick.

Michael holds grabs onto Lola's hands and sits down on his bed.

MICHAEL KAHN

I'm sorry, Lola...I'm just...I've just been having these...

LOLA SCHMIDT

Dreams?

MICHAEL KAHN

(quickly)

Yeah, I don't want talk about it.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Not with me, right?

MICHAEL KAHN

No, don't talk like that.

Michael sets Lola on the bed next to him. He puts his arm around her.

MICHAEL KAHN

I'm just trying to figure them out myself.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Okay. Okay. You don't trust me. It's fine.

MICHAEL KAHN

It's nothing personal, Lola. I mean, yeah, I don't trust you now, but I have a good feeling that someday I may grow to trust you.

LOLA SCHMIDT

No. Mikey, it's fine.

Lola begins to stand and gather her clothes.

LOLA SCHMIDT

I need to go. Have to get up early tomorrow.

Michael stands up and follows her around the room.

MICHAEL KAHN

Lola, what the hell is going on? So I don't trust you now. So what. Like I said, I may grow - -

LOLA SCHMIDT

To trust me?

She throws down her clothing.

LOLA SCHMIDT

(yelling)

You don't grow to trust someone. You know or you don't. Gosh. It's like love, Michael.

MICHAEL KAHN

(yelling)

What?

LOLA SCHMIDT

I think I'm just wasting my time.

Michael stops moving and looks affectionately at Lola. He grabs Lola and holds her tightly to him. Michael KISSES her on her forehead. Lola attempts to break free of his grasp.

LOLA SCHMIDT

(struggling)

Let...me...go.

MICHAEL KAHN

Is that what you want to hear, Lola? That I trust you?

Lola stops struggling and nods. She looks up to him with puppy-dog eyes.

MICHAEL KAHN

Can I have a cigarette first?

Lola PUNCHES Michael lightly in the stomach.

MICHAEL KAHN

Fine. Fine. I think...well I think this is crazy. Not you. Me. Well...you too but anyways. I think that I'm in...I'm in trust with you. Insanity, right? How do you feel about me?

Lola GRINS.

LOLA SCHMIDT

You're okay.

MICHAEL KAHN

You're funny. Come on. Let's go to bed.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Okay.

Michael picks Lola up and places her delicately on the bed.

MICHAEL KAHN

I'll be right back.

LOLA SCHMIDT

No. Go to sleep.

MICHAEL KAHN

Do you trust me back?

LOLA SCHMIDT

Maybe.

MICHAEL KAHN

Me thinks the lady's insane.

LOLA SCHMIDT

And you're not?

MICHAEL KAHN

It's the world that's lost it. I'm just a victim.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Shush.

cut to:

MONTAGE - MICHAEL AND LOLA TOGETHER

A) Michael and Lola eat breakfast at a "hole-in-the-wall" diner.

B) Michael and Lola drink coffee at a cafe.

C) Michael and Lola promenade through The Country Club Plaza. Scientologists approach them and begin to talk. Michael flips them off, and Lola pulls Michael away from them.

cut to:

Ext. Brush Creek - day

Michael and Lola fish on a boat in Brush Creek, a shabby, dirty excuse for a creek that runs south of the Country Club Plaza and north of Volker Boulevard/Swope Parkway.

Michael appears to have trouble with his reel, and Lola helps him.

LOLA SCHMIDT

I can't believe this is your first time.

Michael nods. Suddenly, his reel JERKS as they go under a bridge. Once in the open, Michael pulls up a CORPSE.

LOLA SCHMIDT

What is it?

MICHAEL KAHN

Another stiff.

Michael cuts the line. Lola shakes her head and KISSES him.

LOLA SCHMIdT

I was thinking about something; shouldn't we tell Jimmy about this.

MICHAEL KAHN

I don't think that'd be a good idea; he may not take it well right now.

Lola looks slightly ashamed of herself.

cut to:

Int. Kansas city sun (Luegner's office) - day

Jonathan has assumed Mr. Luegner's office, which looks exactly like it did previously. He sits behind the desk proudly. Mrs. Luegner sits across from him.

Michael STORMS into the room.

MICHAEL KAHN

What is it, Johnny?

mrs. luegner

It's me, Mr. Kahn.

MICHAEL KAHN

(in German)

My dear broad.

MRS. LUEGNER

I know what that means, Mr. Kahn.

JONATHAN TUCKER

She wants more money.

MICHAEL KAHN

Really? Did she have to ask you, Donnie, or could you just see desperation on those puppy dog eyes?

Mrs. Luegner seems very flattered by this description.

MRS. LUEGNER

Easy there, Mr. Kahn, or I'll have to switch to an all Kosher diet.

Michael QUIVERS with disgust and shakes his head.

MICHAEL KAHN

Tempting, but I just remembered that I'm fresh out of penicillin. Besides, Mrs. Luegner, we already pay you one hundred thousand dollars a year.

She looks at him impatiently.

MICHAEL KAHN

That's more than I make.

Jonathan gives Michael a look that says: "You're full of shit."

MRS. LUEGNER

So?

MICHAEL KAHN

(laughing)

So? So? I have a job.

Michael turns his back on her.

MICHAEL KAHN

Can't you ask your sugar daddy for more money?

mrs. luegner

I thought that I was.

MICHAEL KAHN

No, no, no, Mrs. Luegner. I make housewives and psychopaths, but even I draw the line somewhere.

Jonathan shuffles in his chair uncomfortably.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Could I, by chance, fetch a drink. I'm starting to feel quite parched.

Jonathan begins to rise. Michael walks behind Jonathan and holds him down in his chair. Jonathan SLAMS down with a THUD.

MICHAEL KAHN

Lonnie, if you leave me with Catherine de Medici, I swear that I will force you, and I can't understate this, force you to be Jimmy's Doppelganger.

MRS. LUEGNER

Who is Catherine de whatever?

MICHAEL KAHN

Well, they called her the Austrian whore. Perhaps you're familiar with that?

MRS. LUEGNER

No. But that hurts my feelings.

MICHAEL KAHN

What can I do to get rid of you?

Mrs. Luegner's eyes WIDEN with excitement.

MICHAEL KAHN

Without paying you more money.

Mrs. Luegner licks her lips. Michael shakes his head.

MICHAEL KAHN

I think we already covered that.

mrs. luegner

That hasn't stopped us before.

MICHAEL KAHN

Mrs. Luegner, I think we both know that wasn't about you. There was a certain satisfaction I got out of it.

Jonathan looks from Mrs. Luegner to Michael with a face full of shock and anxiety. He looks at his watch. Michael crosses his arms.

MRS. LUEGNER

Okay. I would like it if you dedicated the Luegner monument to both Jacob and myself. I played my part.

MICHAEL KAHN

Sure.

Mrs. Luegner And Jonathan

(together)

Sure?

Michael shoots Jonathan a devious grin.

MRS. LUEGNER

Why so easy this time?

JONATHAN TUCKER

The Schwein?

MICHAEL KAHN

(nodding to Jonathan)

Mrs. Luegner, I know that it sounds odd when other people roll over without a fight, but this is a favor that I'd actually love to do for you.

Jonathan shakes his head.

MRS. LUEGNER

Really? You don't think that the help would mind?

MICHAEL KAHN

Of course not, Mrs. Luegner. I think my employees would enjoy getting behind you for support; scratch that, standing behind you in support.

MRS. LUEGNER

Who?

MICHAEL KAHN

The help.

MRS. LUEGNER

Right.

MICHAEL KAHN

Johnny, would you be so kind as to show Mrs. Luegner my design for the statue.

Jonathan reaches into his desk drawer, revealing a manila folder. He pulls out a piece of paper, and WE can see that a rough sketching on it.

Mrs. Luegner looks at it and opens her mouth to say something but simply smiles. She walks seductively towards the door.

MRS. LUEGNER

Oh that will be perfect. Now, I do have to get going. I have a hair appointment at three, a massage at after, oh, and I need a new pair of shoes, too.

Michael and Jonathan wave politely. Mrs. Luegner exits the office, attempting to draw as much attention to her ass as possible.

MICHAEL KAHN

(smiling)

You showed her the old one, didn't you?

Jonathan grins. Michael looks at the drawing and nods.

JONATHAN TUCKER

We could budget her more, Mr. Kahn.

Michael walks to the window and FLIPS a blind.

MICHAEL KAHN

No. I have plans for that.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Where's Mr. Callahan?

MICHAEL KAHN

Mexico.

Michael exits the office.

cut to:

INT. KANSAS CITY SUN (MICHAEL'S OFFICE) - night

Michael sits alone in complete darkness, illuminated only by a the lamp on his desk.

Michael picks up the phone and dials. He speaks into the phone MOS. Michael leans back in his chair, his position of power, and, obviously, haggles with whomever he's talking to. This action causes the lamp light to shine from below his face.

MICHAEL KAHN

And you can be here tomorrow? Good.

Michael hangs up the phone and smiles.

Screen fades to SCREEN BLACK

SUPER: "I thought this was a Read Revolution."

We hear the sounds of a big truck and the sounds of rough and roudy workers ready for a job.

FADE IN:

EXT. KANSAS CITY SUN - DAY

All of the employees of the Kansas City Sun, except James, stand outside of the building. Michael and Jonathan stand in front of all of them.

A few CONTRACTING TRUCKS pull up to the side walk in front of them. The HEAD CONTRACTOR walks to Michael and Jonathan and they shakes hands.The rest of CONTRACTORS enter the building, carrying tools, ladders, pipes, boards and other building supplies.

A SUPPLY TRUCK parks behind the contractors. More CONTRACTORS emerge from this truck. They open the sliding back door. Contracotrs carry STUDIO LIGHTS, CAMERAS, BLUE AND GREEN SCREENS.

cut to:

ext. kansas city sun - night

SIGN outside of parking lot. Except for a BLACK BMW, the parking lot is empty.

The sign reads: "The Kansas City Sun, Kansas City's leading source of news and information since 1927."

cut to:

ext. kansas city sun - day

SIGN outside of parking lot, which is now full.

The sign now reads: "Sun Media Productions, the future is here."

SUDDENLY, we hear the sound of one person typing. Tac. Tac. Tac. Then another person. Tac tac. Tac tac. At once, we hear a SYMPHONY OF TYPING.

cut to:

INT. KANSAS CITY SUN (HALLWAY) - CONTINUOUS

Michael stands in front of his door, looking all around the hallway. The SYMPHONY OF TYPING plays still.

Michael walks away from the door, revealing a his new status: "Michael Benjamin Kahn: Co-President, Head of Operations."

MONTAGE - THE LAST ISSUE

A. On the screen, shots of four journalists, typing as quickly as possible.

B. Coffee cups and chinese take-out boxes on a table.

C. Michael walks down the main hallway, overseeing the work.

D. James's office, dark and empty.

E. Mrs. Luegner in Mr. Luegner's office yelling at Jonathan, "If you have the money for all of this..."

F. Michael walks into Lola's office and steals a SMOOCH.

G. A TEMP EMPLOYEE carries a large pile of newspapers in a swift rush. The newspapers sway as he runs.

BACK TO SCENE

Michael enters the conference room.

cut to:

INT. KANSAS CITY SUN (CONFERENCE ROOM) - CONTINUOUS

Conference room full of the NOW Sun Media Production employees. Jonathan reads a newspaper. Bottles of CHAMPAIGN all around. A BIG CAKE by the table.

Michael enters the office, and the employees CHEER loudly.

JONATHAN TUCKER

What do you think Mr. Kahn?

Jonathan holds up the newspaper, realing the headline, which reads: "THE LAST ISSUE." He TEARS the newspaper. CHAMPAIGN BOTTLES POP open. The other employees SCREAM and CHEER loudly once more. Michael smiles and waves to his employees as though part of a parade.

MICHAEL KAHN

Mazel tov.

EMPLOYEES

(laughing)

Hey, Mazel tov.

Michael walks over to the cake and skims the top of it with his finger.'

MICHAEL KAHN

What? No stripper?

The employees LAUGH cheerfully.

JONATHAN TUCKER

No, Mickey, just cake.

Male employee

We're getting strippers later.

MICHAEL KAHN

Fantastic.

Michael walks to the head of the table.

MICHAEL KAHN

Well, enjoy those strippers tonight, buddy.

Michael throws a twenty dollar bill in front of him.

MICHAEL KAHN

Here's a dance for you, pal. God knows you need all the help you can get.

The other employees LAUGH at this.

MICHAEL KAHN

Anyways, I'm going away for the rest of the week.

Michael winks at Lola.

MICHAEL KAHN

(continuing)

So, I decided in light of all your hard work, that you all should get those days off.

The employees smile at this great news.

MICHAEL KAHN

But, rest assured, on Monday, we've got a lot of work to do. Our first broadcast will be on Wednesday.

Michael raises his glass to his employees, and they raise their glasses back to him.

cut to:

Int. Kansas City Sun (Michael's Office) - day

The office is neatly arranged. James sits in Michael's chair with the back of the chair facing the door.

Michael enters the office and closes the door.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Good day, Mr. Kahn.

James turns around.

Michael takes off his jacket, acting as though James isn't there.James KICKS his feat onto the desk.

MICHAEL KAHN

How was Mexico, Mr.Callahan.

JAMES CALLAHAN

When did you start calling me Mr. Callahan.

MICHAEL KAHN

It's this game we're playing, Jimmy.

Michael walks over to James and pushes his feet off the desk.

MICHAEL KAHN

It's silly, it really - -

JAMES CALLAHAN

You made some big changes while I was gone.

Michael looks back at James and grins. Michael NODS.

MICHAEL KAHN

The people are lazy. They want to watch the news, not read it.

JAMES CALLAHAN

So we're selling out.

MICHAEL KAHN

This isn't about us. There's a bigger picture here. Think outside of yourself.

James stands and walks towards the door. He pauses.

JAMES CALLAHAN

I get it, but you should've called me.

Michael sits in his chair and leans back on it.

MICHAEL KAHN

There wasn't time.

JAMES CALLAHAN

We're both in charge, right?

MICHAEL KAHN

I don't have time for this shit, Jimmy.

Michael opens up his LAPTOP and starts typing. Jame glares at him.

JAMES CALLAHAN

I heard about your little secret.

Michael stops typing.

JAMES CALLAHAN

A devout Catholic. My my.

MICHAEL KAHN

I was going to - -

James motions for Michael to stop talking.

JAMES CALLAHAN

I'm not bitter, Mickey. It's the first time you've listened to me in a while.

James opens the door.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Tis a big day for me. I want you to treat her right though.

Michael starts typing again.

MICHAEL KAHN

It's none of your business.

JAMES CALLAHAN

I'll make it my business.

MICHAEL KAHN

Jimmy, I like you. I always have. You've got a lot of heart. But you've got no balls. No conviction. If I want to know about a film, I'll talk to you. If I want to know how to save these people's jobs or how to run my personal life then I'll fucking ask myself. Now leave.

James stands, totally abashed. He leaves the room.

cut to:

EXT. Carl Schmidt's house - night

Carl Schmidt resides in the lofty neighborhood of RISS LAKE, off of Sixty Fourth Street and 1-29. Here, the houses tend to be large and elegant. Carl's house is no exception. Snow covers the ground.

Michael and Lola hold hands as they walk up to Carl's front door. Lola huddles against Michael for warmth.

MICHAEL KAHN

I have a feeling that your dad's not going to like me.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Well, you do run a paper that badmouths him.

MICHAEL KAHN

Ran.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Right. You ran a paper that badmouthed him. Now you run a news station that's going to badmouth him.

Michael grins deviously.

MICHAEL KAHN

I still can't believe you talked me into this.

LOLA SCHMIDT

I talked you? No, you're the one who wanted me to set this up.

MICHAEL KAHN

I may have suggested it.

LOLA SCHMIDT

You begged me.

(imitating Michael)

Lola Lola, let's meet your parents. I wanna meet your parents. Oh weh, when am I going to meet the Schmidts.

MICHAEL KAHN

Oh weh? You're laying it on pretty thick, huh? I quit saying that after I read about the Holocaust.

LOLA SCHMIDT

I'm just proving my point, Mikey.

Lola kisses him.

MICHAEL KAHN

Well, I figured it'd be inevitable, so I put in a few words of interest. Naturally, I assumed that we've reached the point in our relationship where you start ignoring my requests.

LOLA SCHMIDT

We're not married.

MICHAEL KAHN

So why haven't we had sex in a while?

LOLA SCHMIDT

It's only been a week. And I think we've passed the point of just having sex. We make love.

MICHAEL KAHN

We'll only make love when you start ignoring my requests.

Lola smiles at Michael.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Well, I suppose we'd better rush off to Vegas and make this official.

MICHAEL KAHN

A true compromise. Good. While we're here, I can ask your dad for permission. What do you think?

LOLA SCHMIDT

You may not get his vote.

Michael grins. Lola and Michael reach the door. Michael PUSHES Lola forward, and she TAPS him on the stomach before knocking on the door.

After a few seconds,Carl opens the door, followed by his wife CONNIE, a tall blond whose age does not conceal her beauty. Carl and Connie hug Lola. Carl looks up and notices Michael standing there. He GLARES at Michael.

MICHAEL KAHN

Hello again, Carl.

Lola looks surprised.

LOLA SCHMIDT

You never told me you met him.

MICHAEL KAHN

I thought it'd be funnier this way. Besides, this makes us even.

Connie CHUCKLES, and Carl frowns at him.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Mom, this is my boyfriend, Michael.

MICHAEL KAHN

That's your mom? I could have sworn that she was your sister.

Connie Schmidt

(grinning)

I see what they say about you is true.

MICHAEL KAHN

What do they say?

CARL SCHMIDT

That you're a liar.

Michael forces himself to CHUCKLE at this. Connie eyes Carl suspiciously.

CONNIE SCHMIDT

You don't think that Lola and I could be sisters?

CARL SCHMIDT

I...I need to go check on the, uh, the steaks.

Carl walks back into the house.

CONNIE SCHMIDT

I thought so. Oh my gosh. Come inside. Come inside.

Connie rushes out of the way, and Lola enters the house. Michael doesn't move, but, instead, he bows and gestures for Connie to enter.

MICHAEL KAHN

After you, Mrs. Schmidt.

CONNIE

It's Connie, Michael.

MICHAEL KAHN

You can call me Mickey, Connie.

Connie smiles and enters the house. Michael follows suit.

cut to:

int. Carl Schmidt's house (Living Room) - continuous

The living room appears very small, given the size of the house. It has been arranged in an Oriental fashion. Books about Tea Culture cover an ornate coffee table.

Lola, Connie and Michael gather around the coffee table.

CONNIE SCHMIDT

So Michael, Lola, how have things been going at work?

MICHAEL KAHN

Pretty hectic these past few weeks.

CONNIE SCHMIDT

Oh?

LOLA SCHMIDT

Yep. Mikey keeps us pretty busy.

CONNIE SCHMIDT

You make your girlfriend work hard?

Michael shrugs.

MICHAEL KAHN

Whenever she lets me.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Oh you're so full of it.

CONNIE SCHMIDT

So how does a man as young as you come to run a newspaper?

LOLA SCHMIDT

He begged for it.

Lola sticks her tongue out at Michael. Michael nods with a smirk present on his face.

MICHAEL KAHN

Actually, I made a suggestion to my former boss, and he despised me enough to give me the job.

Carl Schmidt (O.S.)

I can see that.

CONNIE SCHMIDT

(annoyed)

Carl.

CARL SCHMIDT

(ignoring Connie)

What ever happened to Luegner?

MICHAEL KAHN

(fighting back laughter)

He had a pain in the ass that finally got the better of him.

LOLA SCHMIDT

(shocked)

Mikey, that's nothing to laugh about.

MICHAEL KAHN

What? It's the truth.

CARL SCHMIDT

Is that a confession, Kahn?

MICHAEL KAHN

No, I tried to help him. He just didn't have the heart to divorce his wife.

CARL SCHMIDT

What?

LOLA SCHMIDT

Daddy, Mr. Luegner died from a, uh, Hemorrhoid.

CARL SCHMIDT

How the hell?

MICHAEL KAHN

Well, you see, Carl, his wife's a pretty big bitch.

Lola KICKS Michael's shin.

MICHAEL KAHN

Uh, pardon the language, Connie, but there's no other word for her. Well, I take that back, actually.

CARL SCHMIDT

That's too bad. I always thought he was a good man.

MICHAEL KAHN

He was a lousy exec.

CARL SCHMIDT

At least he never lied to make a buck.

Michael bursts up from his seat. He and Carl stare daggers at one another.

MICHAEL KAHN

He lied plenty, and didn't have a thing to show for it, but if you're insinuating that anything my paper ran about you was a lie - -

LOLA SCHMIDT

Michael, that's enough.

Michael resigns and sits back down next to Lola.

CONNIE SCHMIDT

The steaks are done, Carl.

CARL SCHMIDT

Right. Of course, dear.

Carl walks out of the living room.

MICHAEL KAHN

By the bye, Carl, the Kansas City Sun will cease to run stories about you.

Carl stops dead in his tracks and stares at Michael suspiciously.

CARL SCHMIDT

That a fact?

MICHAEL KAHN

That's not a lie.

Michael grins smugly at him, a trace of anger still on his face. Carl heads back towards the Kitchen. His face is one of disbelief.

cut to:

EXT. CARL SCHMIDT'S HOUSE - Later

Night has fallen. The street lights SHINE brightly, casting shadows that envelope the ground below.

Michael and Lola exit Carl's house. Connie stands in the doorway, waving at them, while Carl hangs back behind her, GLARING at Michael.

Across the street, Peter Kahn and two bear-like MEN stand outside of a black SUV. Michael looks over at them and squints sharply.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Mikey?

Michael doesn't respond.

LOLA SCHMIDT

(louder)

Mikey.

Michael snaps out of his trance.

MICHAEL KAHN

What? Uh. Oh yeah.

LOLA SCHMIDT

What were you looking at?

MICHAEL KAHN

(pointing towards Peter)

Those guys over there.

Lola looks in the direction Michael points.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Who?

Michael looks over in the same direction, discovering that Peter and the other two men have disappeared.

MICHAEL KAHN

The fuck?

LOLA SCHMIDT

Who was it?

MICHAEL KAHN

I thought I saw...

Michael spots the black SUV driving down the road.

MICHAEL KAHN

(continuing)

Peter?

Lola Schmidt

You're brother?

Michael Kahn

Maybe.

Lola Schmidt

What would he be doing here?

Michael Kahn

I don't...never mind. Forget I said anything.

Lola Schmidt

Okay...

Michael and Lola enter Michael's BMW.

cut to:

Int. kansas City Sun (NewsRoom) - day

Michael sits at a news desk, staring endearingly into the camera.

MICHAEL KAHN

Hello, citizens, I'm Mickey Kahn. I'm sorry to report that The Kansas City Sun no longer exists, but Sun News one will provide you with the same content...the truth.

JONATHAN TUCKER (O.S.)

And cut.

Michael steps out from behind the desk. He walks over to Jonathan and a few other EMPLOYEES. James stands behind he group, sulking and starring daggers at Michael.

JONATHAN TUCKER

That was excellent, Mr. Kahn. First take too.

The other employees nod eagerly in agreement.

MICHAEL KAHN

(to James)

What do you think?

James sighs heavily.

JAMES CALLAHAN

The fuck does it matter?

Michael steps close to James, so that no one can hear what he says to him.

MICHAEL KAHN

Look, Jimmy, I would have loved to have called you about this, but I couldn't pass the deal up.

JAMES CALLAHAN

You think you know it all, don't you?

MICHAEL KAHN

What the hell are you talking about?

JAMES CALLAHAN

Have you been you treatin' Lola well?

MICHAEL KAHN

What does one thing have to do with the other?

JAMES CALLAHAN

You're a fuckin' dick, Mickey. I heard about the other night. What kind of jackass gets into an argument with their girl's dad?

MICHAEL KAHN

What is that your business?

JAMES CALLAHAN

Just tryin' to help you out.

MICHAEL KAHN

You keep saying that, Jimmy, but I don't see you do shit except for take trips to Mexico and pat yourself on the back for one good essay.

JAMES CALLAHAN

You just don't get it.

James walk towards the door.

MICHAEL KAHN

I don't think either one of us gets it.

James shakes his head. Michael watches James as he walks out of the door.

cut to:

Int. Kansas city Sun (hallway) - night

The hallway has been decorated for a banquet. Golden streamers hang along the walls. A large object is hidden by a black veil. A band plays smooth jazz in the background.

The Sun Media EMPLOYEES wear tuxedos and night gowns. Waiters walk around them, carrying platters of drinks and food. Michael peeks around the room with Lola at his side, and both seem to be enjoying themselves.

MICHAEL KAHN

I can't wait to unveil it.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Are you sure that this isn't something you might regret?

MICHAEL KAHN

Lola, I anticipate the warmest of receptions from the staff.

LOLA SCHMIDT

But do you want that thing hanging around us all the time?

MICHAEL KAHN

It beats having a statue of him scowling at us.

LOLA SCHMIDT

What did he do to you, anyways?

MICHAEL KAHN

Enough.

Jonathan approaches Michael and Lola, slightly drunk.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Mr. Kahn. Mrs Kahn. How are we, eh, how are we doing tonight.

MICHAEL KAHN

Not as well as you, I take it.

JONATHAN TUCKER

I haven't drank that much, you fool.

Jonathan wraps his arm around Michael and kisses him on the cheek.

MICHAEL KAHN

Easy there, cowboy.

LOLA SCHMIDT

I'm still Miss Schmidt, Johnny.

JONATHAN TUCKER

(yelling)

What?

LOLA SCHMIDT

Never mind.

MICHAEL KAHN

Where's Jimmy, Johnny?

JONATHAN TUCKER

I'm right here.

MICHAEL KAHN

No. Not you. Jimmy. J-I-M-M-Y.

Jonathan seems somewhat put off by this.

JONATHAN TUCKER

I did not. I doth protest, you slug.

Jonathan stumbles slightly. Michael shakes his head. Lola LAUGHS.

MICHAEL KAHN

(to an employee)

Hey, Ricky.

The man named Ricky looks up.

MICHAEL KAHN

Keep Johnny away from Mrs. Luegner. At this rate, he's liable to hand over our passed quarter's revenue for a nibble on the ear.

Ricky

Yes, sir.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Have you seen Jimmy?

Ricky

Not sense earlier. Actually, he told me he had some meeting to go to or something.

MICHAEL KAHN

A meeting?

RICKY

That's what he said.

MICHAEL KAHN

Thanks, Ricky.

Michael and Lola move away from them.

MICHAEL KAHN

That's odd.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Jimmy has his own life to live, Mikey.

MICHAEL KAHN

Yeah, but he's been planning this thing with me for months now. It's not like him to do this.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Have you tried calling him?

MICHAEL KAHN

Yeah.

Michael looks at the ground.

MICHAEL KAHN

He's probably pissed about the other day.

Lola shoots him a questioning glance.

MICHAEL KAHN

We argued about something, or he did, at least.

LOLA SCHMIDT

What about?

MICHAEL KAHN

I don't know. Say, did you tell him about what happened at your parents?

LOLA SCHMIDT

Yeah. In passing. He asked me about how things were going with us. I told him that.

MICHAEL KAHN

(appalled)

What? Why?

LOLA SCHMIDT

I thought it was funny. He seemed kind of down so I wanted to cheer him up.

Michael stares at Lola, his fists shaking slightly.

An EMPLOYEE walks up to Michael and Lola.

EMPLOYEE

Mr. Kahn, you have a phone call.

Michael GRUNTS.

MICHAEL KAHN

Thanks. Send it to my office.

(to Lola)

That'll be him, I suppose.

Michael and Lola head to Michael's office.

cut to:

INT. KANSAS CITY SUN (MICHAEL'S OFFICE) - CONTINUOUS

The office is dark, and moonlight shines through the blinds.

Michael and Lola enter without bother to turn the lights on. Michael picks up the phone.

MICHAEL KAHN

This is Mickey.

PETER KAHN (V.O.)

(in German)

I believe that your friend plots against you.

MICHAEL KAHN

(in German)

What do you mean.

PETER KAHN (V.O.)

(in German)

Your friend. Watch him carefully.

MICHAEL KAHN

(in German)

What? Who is this then? Peter?

WE hear the dial tone. Michael hangs the phone up.

LOLA SCHMIDT

Who was that?

MICHAEL KAHN

I don't know.

Michael's hands shake slightly. He grabs one of Lola's hands and holds it delicately.

cut to:

INT. KANSAS CITY SUN (HALLWAY) - Moments later

Michael stands before all of his employees and their families beside the veiled object. Mrs. Luegner is in the front row, trying to gain attention to herself.

MICHAEL KAHN

I'd like to thank all of you again for your hard work and dedication. These last few months since Jacob Luegner passed on have not been easy. Indeed, they have been most trying. Yet we have persevered, and I believe that we dearly have deserved this night. As you all may or may not know, Jacob Luegner was a man with a keen wit, and I chose this monument with that aspect of Jacob Luegner in mind.

The audience seems shocked by this. Lola shakes her head. Mrs. Luegner smiles affectionately at Michael

MICHAEL KAHN

(continuing)

And, as troubling as these past few months have been for us, I'm sure that they have been doubly trying for dear Mrs. Luegner.

Michael winks at the audience. They still seemed shocked by what he is saying.

MICHAEL KAHN

Hence, this monument shall be dedicated to both of the Luegners and all that they have done for us.

Michael pulls back the veil, and the audience giggles. Mrs. Luegner SCREAMS sharply. Michael takes a bow, and his employees applaud him. WE now see the monument: a statue of a GIANT WARTHOG STATUE.

Michael walks off the stage. Mrs. Luegner storms over to him.

MRS. LUEGNER

(incredibly livid)

You lied to me, you goddamn kike. If I could make your life worse, I would. But you're already a Jew.

MICHAEL KAHN

(coolly)

You already used that one.

Michael walks away.

cut to:

Int. Kansas City Sun (hallway) - day

The day after the banquet. A group of JANITORS clean the up the mess. Jonathan sleeps on the WARTHOG STATUE.

James enters the hallway, looking disgustedly at the scene around him. He walks over to Jonathan and KICKS him awake.

JONATHAN TUCKER

(drowsily)

Huh, uh. Fuck.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Did you sleep here last night?

JONATHAN TUCKER

Na, ah I was waiting for you, Mr. Callahan. Mickey wants to see you.

JAMES CALLAHAN

Tell him to go fuck himself.

James struts away.

MONTAGE - A YEAR IN PASSING

A) Michael attempts to speak to a pissed off James.

B) Outside of Sun Media Productions: Winter, Snow

C) A shot of a television Broadcast.

D) Outside of Sun Media Productions: Spring, Rain

E) Michael shakes hands with a real-estate agent in front of Kahn Mansion

F) Outside of Sun Media Productions: Summer, Heat rising from the ground

G) Michael runs a meeting while James sulks in the background.

H) Outside of Sun Media Productions: Autumn, Falling leaves

I) Michael watches James walk over to a white BMW 5 Series.

J) Outside of Sun Media Productions: Winter, Snow

BACK TO SCENE

Michael walks down the hallway. EMPLOYEES greet him as he passes.

cut to:

Int. Kansas City Sun (Michael's office) - day

Michael's office is still clean. The office has now been lined with exotic plants. Heart's picture now hangs strait.

Michael stands by the window, looking out into the world. Jonathan enters quietly.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Yes, Mr. Kahn?

MICHAEL KAHN

I didn't understand your email.

Michael sits down in his chair, revealing a thick goatee he has grown. He gestures for Jonathan to sit. Jonathan slowly takes a seat.

MICHAEL KAHN

We reached all of our quotas, and still we must follow through with this...proclamation. Riddle me this Batman.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Well, we didn't make enough to save those jobs. It's a small price to pay though.

MICHAEL KAHN

I think I'll run for mayor.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Mr. Kahn?

MICHAEL KAHN

Kahn for mayor. That'll sell.

JONATHAN TUCKER

Don't you have to be nominated for that?

MICHAEL KAHN

Sure. That's the American way after all.



Author's note: This is all for now. I hope to finish it soon; just give me some thoughts if you would. Also, forgive me for the formatting, but that's how it went down here.