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Scene 1 -  Vacation Before Flu Season
INT. WRITERS’ ROOM/LIZ’S OFFICE - MORNING
LIZ enters with shopping bags. Many of the WRITERS look
under the weather. There’s a flu going around.
LIZ
(brightly)
Good morning! How is everyone?
FRANK
I caught that flu. I have a fever,
my feet are swollen and I feel like
my intestines are going to explode.
LIZ
(equally brightly)
Don’t care. Four days ‘til my
beach vacation on St. Bartleby’s.
LUTZ
St. Bartleby’s? Isn’t that the
most politically unstable island in
the Bahamas?
LIZ
That’s the media. No one reports
on dictators who aren’t hanged.
PETE
What is it about that place? Last
year you came back so relaxed
and... pleasant.
LIZ
I have the perfect resort, Pete.
Private beaches, a soft ice cream
machine with a generator so we’re
solid if rebels attack the power
grid, and showing bare feet is
tolerated but not expected.
Liz is lost in dreamy thought.
FLASHBACK TO:

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 2.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
EXT. BAHAMAS RESORT - LAST YEAR
Perfect Caribbean backdrop. Island music plays. Liz lounges
holding a blue drink in one hand and a butterscotch dipped
soft ice cream in the other. She wears a long robe and her
feet are covered with matching hospital booties.
CUT BACK TO:
Genres:

Summary Liz cheerfully enters the writers' room with shopping bags, ignoring Frank's severe flu symptoms as she excitedly describes her upcoming trip to St. Bartleby's. She dismisses concerns about the island's stability and recalls last year's relaxing resort stay in a flashback.
Strengths
  • original resort details
  • sharp character voices
  • efficient premise setup
  • strong visual punchline with booties
Weaknesses
  • no plot movement
  • no character change
  • no conflict
  • purely expository

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to establish Liz's eccentric vacation obsession and comedic tone, which it does effectively through sharp dialogue and a vivid flashback. The main limiter is the lack of plot progression or character development, as it's purely expository and comedic, so lifting it would involve weaving in a hint of conflict or a setup for future events.


Story Content

Concept: 7.5

The concept of a politically unstable island as a dream vacation spot is fresh and funny, and the detail of the soft ice cream machine with a generator is a unique comedic beat. However, it's a simple comedic premise without much depth.

Plot: 4

The scene doesn't advance a plot; it's a character moment establishing Liz's vacation anticipation. The flashback is a comedic set piece, but there's no narrative progression.

Originality: 8

The scene is original in its specific details—St. Bartleby's, the ice cream machine, the booties—which are fresh and authentic to Liz's character. The dialogue feels true to the show's voice.


Character Development

Characters: 6

Liz is clearly the focus, showing her self-absorbed, quirky nature. The other writers are sketched with flu symptoms, but they serve as straight men. Frank's line is vivid, but they lack individual depth.

Character Changes: 0

No character changes; Liz is the same at the end as the beginning, and the others are static.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 4


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 2

There's minimal conflict—just the contrast between the sick writers and Liz's obliviousness. No real opposition or stakes.

Opposition: 2

The opposition is minimal—the flu and the writers' complaints are a mild obstacle to Liz's cheerfulness, but they don't actively oppose her.

High Stakes: 2

The stakes are low—Liz's vacation is a personal desire, but there's no threat or urgency.

Story Forward: 2

The scene doesn't move a plot forward; it's a comedic interlude that establishes character and tone but doesn't introduce a conflict or goal.

Unpredictability: 8

The scene is unpredictable in its details—the hospital booties, the generator for ice cream, and the casual dismissal of political instability—which subvert expectations.

Philosophical Conflict: 3


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 4

The scene is amusing but not emotionally resonant. It evokes a smile but not deeper feelings.

Dialogue: 8

The dialogue is sharp and witty, with Liz's 'Don't care' and the absurd logic about dictators being highlights. It's characterful and moves the comedic beat, but it's mostly banter without subtext.

Engagement: 7

The scene is engaging because of the witty dialogue and the absurd premise of a politically unstable vacation spot, which creates curiosity and amusement.

Pacing: 8

The pacing is brisk, with quick exchanges and a smooth transition to the flashback, maintaining comedic momentum without dragging.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 9

Formatting is standard and clear, with proper scene headings and transitions. The flashback is clearly marked, and dialogue is well-parsed.

Structure: 6

The scene is a classic comedy setup: establish a mundane situation, introduce a character's obsession, and pay off with a flashback. It's effective for a cold open, but it lacks a traditional three-act structure.


Critique
  • The scene efficiently establishes the flu outbreak and Liz's self-absorbed, vacation-obsessed character, but the transition from Liz's dreamy state to the flashback feels abrupt. A visual cue or a line of dialogue could bridge the two moments more smoothly.
  • The dialogue, while snappy and in-character, leans heavily on exposition—especially Frank's description of his symptoms and Liz's listing of resort amenities. This could be trimmed or delivered with more comedic timing, like having Frank's line cut off by Liz's nonchalant reaction.
  • The writers' reactions to Liz are one-note: they are all sick and miserable. Introducing a subtle contrast—like one writer who isn't sick or who reacts differently—could add texture and prevent the scene from feeling too homogeneous.
  • The line 'showing bare feet is tolerated but not expected' is a good character detail, but it might be stronger if it came as a punchline after a pause or a beat, rather than being buried in the list.
  • The flashback to the Bahamas is brief and static. Adding a small action—like Liz struggling with the hospital booties or the ice cream dripping—would make it more visually engaging and comedic.
Suggestions
  • Insert a close-up on Liz's eyes glazing over, then a slow dissolve into the flashback, accompanied by a sound effect (e.g., wave sounds or island music fading in) to signal the transition.
  • Consider cutting Frank's line to just 'I feel like my intestines are going to explode' and having Liz immediately respond 'Don't care' without the fever/feet details. This punches up the dismissive humor.
  • Add a quick beat where Lutz looks at the camera or mutters something under his breath after Liz dismisses the political instability, to emphasize her obliviousness.
  • In the flashback, have Liz attempt to take a bite of the ice cream but miss her mouth slightly, or have the booties slip—a small physical gag that underscores her awkwardness even in paradise.
  • End the scene with a quick cut back to the present where a writer loudly coughs, snapping Liz out of her reverie, then she smiles and says 'Can't wait!' This reinforces her detachment from the sick reality around her.



Scene 2 -  Vacation Interrupted
INT. WRITERS’ ROOM/LIZ’S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Everyone as we left them.
CERIE
Good for you finally cutting loose.
It’ll be just like that movie...
LIZ
“Under the Tuscan Sun”?
CERIE
No, I want to say “Cocoon”?
(re: Liz’s shopping bag)
Ooh. Is that a new bathing suit?
LIZ
Better. It’s designer beachwear
from the St. John collection. This
is called a “tankoort.”
She holds up an aggressively non-sexy beach garment: princess
sleeves and culottes with a skirt.
LUTZ
(re: tankoort tag)
From the Jill St. John collection?
LIZ
Jeez. It’s like you can’t buy
fashion at the CVS anymore.
Liz enters her office and starts “Bosu Balling.”
LIZ (CONT’D)
Leaving Monday. Got to get it
tight. Cerie, I am really excited.

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 3.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
CERIE
Go girl. Oh, the Pelican Bay hotel
called and said they’re over-booked
and your reservation is canceled.
(off Liz’s stricken look)
Is that for the same vacation?
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Liz excitedly shows off a new non-sexy 'tankoort' beachwear from St. John and begins exercising, but her mood plummets when Cerie informs her the Pelican Bay hotel canceled her reservation due to overbooking.
Strengths
  • Efficient setup of Liz's vacation goal
  • Classic sitcom reversal
  • Good character-specific humor (Lutz's 'Jill St. John')
  • Clear, functional scene
Weaknesses
  • Lacks deeper character or thematic resonance
  • Relies on a familiar sitcom trope

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to establish Liz's vacation as a source of joy and impending disappointment, which it does effectively through sharp dialogue and a comedic reveal. The main limiter is the abrupt tonal shift at the end, which, while effective, could be better integrated with the preceding banter to feel less jarring.


Story Content

Concept: 6.5

The concept of a character's dream vacation being threatened by a mundane cancellation is relatable, but the execution leans on familiar sitcom tropes. The 'tankoort' gag is fresh and funny, but the overall premise is not highly original.

Plot: 6

The plot is minimal but functional: it sets up Liz's excitement and then delivers a setback. The cancellation is a classic plot device, but it's handled with a comedic twist that keeps it engaging.

Originality: 6.5

The scene is original in its specific details (the 'tankoort', the CVS line) but follows a familiar sitcom structure. The dialogue feels authentic to the characters, even if the situation is common.


Character Development

Characters: 6

Liz is clearly the focus, with her enthusiasm and vulnerability on display. The supporting characters (Cerie, Lutz) serve as comedic foils, but their personalities are only lightly sketched. The scene doesn't deepen our understanding of anyone beyond Liz.

Character Changes: 2

Liz's emotional state shifts from excited to deflated, but this is a surface-level change. There's no significant character development or arc within the scene.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 3

The conflict is external and low-stakes: a canceled reservation. It's a minor obstacle, but it's enough to create a comedic beat. There's no internal conflict or philosophical clash.

Opposition: 2

The opposition is minimal: the hotel's overbooking is an impersonal force. There's no active antagonist, which is typical for a comedy of this type.

High Stakes: 3

The stakes are personal but low: Liz's vacation plans. For a comedy, this is appropriate, but it doesn't create high tension.

Story Forward: 6

The scene moves the story forward by introducing a complication (the canceled reservation) that will likely drive the next plot point. It also reinforces Liz's character traits.

Unpredictability: 6

The cancellation is somewhat predictable, but the specific details (the hotel name, the overbooking) add a layer of specificity that feels fresh. The 'tankoort' gag is also unexpected.

Philosophical Conflict: 3


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 5

The emotional impact is moderate. Liz's excitement is infectious, and the cancellation is a genuine letdown, but the scene doesn't aim for deep emotional resonance.

Dialogue: 7

The dialogue is sharp and witty, with a strong comedic rhythm. The 'tankoort' exchange and the CVS line are highlights. However, some lines feel like they're trying too hard to be funny, and the transition to the cancellation could be smoother.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because of its witty dialogue and the relatable situation of a vacation being threatened. The comedic timing keeps the reader entertained.

Pacing: 7

The pacing is brisk, with quick exchanges that keep the scene moving. The shift to the cancellation is abrupt, which could be seen as a pacing issue, but it also creates a comedic beat.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard screenplay format, with clear scene headings and action lines. The use of parentheticals and dialogue is correct.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic setup-payoff structure: build up Liz's excitement, then deliver the punchline of the cancellation. It's effective for a comedy, though the transition could be more seamless.


Critique
  • The scene effectively pivots from Liz's giddy vacation anticipation to a sudden reversal with the cancellation news, maintaining the comedic rhythm. However, the transition feels slightly abrupt; the Bosu ball exercise is a fun visual but doesn't add much narrative weight or character insight.
  • The 'tankoort' joke is classic 30 Rock—aggressively non-sexy and awkward. But Lutz's 'Jill St. John' mispronunciation is a bit one-note; a more creative misdirection or a callback to an earlier joke could strengthen the laugh.
  • Cerie's line comparing Liz to a movie ('Cocoon') is a bit obscure and may not land for all viewers. The humor relies on the absurdity of comparing a vacation to a movie about elderly people regaining youth, but the reference is dated and could be replaced with something more universally recognizable.
  • The scene lacks a clear emotional beat between Liz's excitement and her devastation. Her reaction to the cancellation is implied by the 'stricken look,' but a verbal or physical reaction (like dropping the Bosu ball or a sarcastic remark) would make the reversal more impactful.
  • The tone is consistent with the previous scene—light, self-absorbed Liz—but the cancelation feels like a plot device rather than an organic obstacle. It might be more effective if Cerie's delivery held a hint of schadenfreude or if Liz had a moment of denial before accepting the news.
  • The Bosu ball exercise is a funny visual but doesn't tie into the overall theme of sickness and health. Given that many writers are sick in the previous scene, Liz's vigorous exercising while ignoring their suffering underscores her obliviousness—but this could be emphasized more explicitly.
Suggestions
  • Add a brief beat where Liz, upon hearing the cancellation, tries to salvage the situation—calling the hotel herself or asking Cerie to check again—before collapsing into despair. This would heighten the comedy of her entitlement.
  • Replace the 'Cocoon' reference with a more contemporary or absurd comparison, like 'Under the Tuscan Sun' (which she already suggests) but then Cerie says 'No, that one with the old people who become young—wait, that's Cocoon?' to create a comedic misunderstanding.
  • Have a sick writer (e.g., Frank) cough or groan in the background as Liz exercises, visually contrasting her health with their illness and subtly foreshadowing the cancellation as a karmic blow.
  • Expand Lutz's misidentifying the collection: he could claim it's 'from the Jill St. John collection at Target,' which would tie into Liz's CVS complaint and add another layer of mockery to her pretentious beachwear.
  • Show Liz's physical reaction to the cancellation—let the Bosu ball tip over, or have her freeze mid-motion, then slowly sink to the floor in a dramatic collapse, emphasizing the emotional whiplash.
  • After Cerie delivers the news, include a quick cutaway to a sick writer (like Frank) smugly smiling, implying a sense of poetic justice that Liz's perfect vacation is ruined while everyone else is suffering.



Scene 3 -  The Nurse and the Girlfriend
INT. JACK’S OFFICE - A LITTLE LATER
JACK is there. JONATHAN pops his head in.
JONATHAN
Mr. Donaghy, your mother’s nurse is
here. Should I tell her to go
away, we’re busy and things were
perfect before she came along?
JACK
Jonathan, Elisa is my girlfriend.
JONATHAN
(scandalized)
Sir, she’s from the Bronx. The
other assistants are talking. And
you know how cruel they can be.
(bitter)
Especially Andrew.
ELISA enters, dressed for work. Jack gives her a big hug.
JACK
Hey there, beautiful. I can’t wait
to see you at my place tonight.
ELISA
That’s what I’m here about, Jack.
I like you. But us being together
while I work for your mom has
created an uncomfortable work
environment.
JACK
I know. I never should’ve gotten
her that hydraulic wheelchair.
FLASHBACK TO:

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 4.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
INT. JACK’S DEN - LAST WEEK
Jack and Elisa are having an intimate moment on the couch.
Jack leans in for a kiss but is interrupted by the ominous
whir of a wheelchair. We see COLLEEN’S feet slowly enter
frame.
COLLEEN (O.S.)
Jack!!!
CUT BACK TO:
Genres:

Summary Jonathan warns Jack that his mother's nurse, Elisa, is in the building, suggesting he send her away. Jack corrects him, revealing Elisa is his girlfriend, shocking Jonathan due to her Bronx background and office gossip. Elisa enters and tells Jack their relationship creates an uncomfortable work environment because she works for his mother. Jack deflects by blaming himself for getting his mother a hydraulic wheelchair. A flashback shows Jack and Elisa being intimate in his den, interrupted by the ominous whir of Colleen's wheelchair and her off-screen yell. The scene ends returning to the present with the conflict unresolved.
Strengths
  • Jonathan's voice is sharp and funny
  • Efficient setup of the central conflict
  • The flashback to Colleen's wheelchair is a great visual gag
Weaknesses
  • Elisa is underwritten
  • No character movement or internal stakes
  • Scene is pure setup without dramatic pressure

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to advance the B-plot romance between Jack and Elisa while delivering comedy, and it does so effectively with sharp dialogue and a clever flashback gag. The main limiter is that the conflict is introduced but not yet developed, leaving the scene feeling like a setup rather than a payoff; deepening Elisa's internal conflict or adding a twist would lift it.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of a boss dating his mother's nurse is a fresh twist on the office romance, and the class commentary (Bronx vs. Upper East Side) adds satirical depth. However, it's a familiar sitcom trope, and the execution is solid but not groundbreaking.

Plot: 6

The plot moves the romance forward by introducing a conflict (Elisa's discomfort) and a comedic flashback that interrupts a tender moment. It's a classic sitcom beat, but the scene is more about character interaction than advancing a larger plot.

Originality: 6.5

The scene is original in its specific details (the Bronx girlfriend, the hydraulic wheelchair) but follows a familiar sitcom pattern of a secret romance facing obstacles. The dialogue is authentic to the characters.


Character Development

Characters: 7.5

Jack is charming and oblivious, Elisa is grounded and conflicted, and Jonathan is hilariously overprotective. The characters are distinct and their voices are clear, but Elisa's motivation could be more nuanced—she states her issue but doesn't show much internal struggle.

Character Changes: 3

Elisa makes a decision to end the relationship, which is a change in her stance, but Jack doesn't change—he's still pursuing. The change is minor and not fully explored.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 5

The conflict is interpersonal: Elisa wants to end the relationship due to workplace discomfort, while Jack wants to continue. The flashback adds a comedic obstacle (Colleen's interruption), but the stakes are low and the conflict is resolved quickly (Elisa states her case, Jack is left to react).

Opposition: 5

The opposition comes from Elisa's decision to end the relationship, and Jonathan's disapproval. The opposition is mild, as it's not a villainous force but a reasonable conflict.

High Stakes: 3

The stakes are low—the relationship is new and the conflict is about workplace comfort, not life-or-death. The comedic tone keeps the stakes from feeling high.

Story Forward: 5

The scene advances the romance subplot by introducing a conflict that will need resolution. It also sets up potential future scenes with Colleen's involvement. However, it doesn't move the main plot (Liz's vacation) forward.

Unpredictability: 6

The scene is somewhat predictable in its setup (the girlfriend reveals a problem), but the flashback to the hydraulic wheelchair is an unexpected comedic twist that subverts the romantic moment.

Philosophical Conflict: 6


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 4

The scene has a light emotional impact—there's a hint of sadness in Elisa's decision, but it's undercut by comedy. The flashback is funny, not emotional. The audience may feel a slight tug for Jack's romantic hopes, but it's not deeply moving.

Dialogue: 8

The dialogue is sharp and witty, with Jonathan's lines providing strong comedic beats. The exchange about the Bronx and the 'hydraulic wheelchair' is memorable. However, some lines feel a bit on-the-nose, like Elisa's explanation of the 'uncomfortable work environment,' which could be more subtextual.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because of the witty dialogue and the comedic tension between Jack, Elisa, and Jonathan. The flashback adds a visual gag that keeps the audience entertained.

Pacing: 7

The pacing is brisk, with quick exchanges and a fast transition to the flashback. The scene doesn't drag, but the flashback might feel abrupt to some viewers.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 9

The formatting is standard screenplay format with clear scene headings, character cues, and a flashback. It's easy to read and follows industry norms.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic sitcom structure: setup (Jack and Jonathan), complication (Elisa's announcement), and a comedic flashback that interrupts the emotional beat. It's effective for comedy, but the flashback could be seen as a detour from the main conflict.


Critique
  • Jonathan's line 'things were perfect before she came along' is a bit too on-the-nose and feels like a cliché for a gossipy assistant. It could be more subtly dismissive or reveal more about his character's bias.
  • The scene ends abruptly with a flashback that lacks a clear transition. A brief sound cue or visual bridge (like the whir of the wheelchair starting before the cut) would smooth the jump and heighten the comedic timing.
  • Elisa's concern about the uncomfortable work environment is a legitimate conflict, but it's undercut immediately by Jack's joke about the hydraulic wheelchair. This deflates the tension prematurely and misses an opportunity to show Jack's vulnerability or acknowledge the real stakes.
  • The flashback is humorous but doesn't add new information about Jack and Elisa's relationship beyond the interruption. It could be more effective if it reveals a specific character trait or emotional beat (e.g., Jack's fear of his mother's disapproval) that pays off later.
  • The scene feels rushed—Jonathan's entrance, Elisa's arrival, and the conflict are all compressed into a few lines. Slowing down to let the uncomfortable silence or awkward glances land would strengthen the comedic and dramatic rhythm.
Suggestions
  • Expand Jonathan's dialogue to hint at his own insecurities or jealousy (e.g., 'Andrew says she’s only after your money') rather than a generic complaint. This would add depth to the office gossip subplot.
  • Insert a brief beat after Elisa's line about the work environment where Jack pauses, looks at her seriously, and then deflects with the wheelchair joke. This would make his avoidance more deliberate and humorous.
  • Add a visual or audio cue before the flashback—like a close-up on Jack's guilty face or the sound of the wheelchair whirring faintly—to signal the transition and build anticipation.
  • In the flashback, include a quick glimpse of Jack’s nervous reaction to his mother’s voice (e.g., he flinches or looks toward the door) to emphasize the power dynamic and his mother's control over his personal life.
  • Consider cutting to a wider shot of the office as Elisa exits or stays, leaving Jack alone with his thoughts. This would give the scene a stronger emotional beat and allow the audience to sit with the tension before the flashback.



Scene 4 -  The Impossible Date
INT. JACK’S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Jack, Elisa and Jonathan are as we left them.
JACK
Colleen has many prejudices:
Blacks, Jews, Scots, vegetarians,
the bearded. She has issues with
me dating a woman who’s, I’m sorry,
what do you call yourself?
ELISA
A Puerto Rican.
JACK
No, I know you can say that, but
what can people like me call you?
ELISA
Puerto Ricans.
JACK
Wow. That does not sound okay. I
get it though. When you’re working
for mother it’s all work. But you
are off tonight...
ELISA
Sorry, Jack. I’m caring for
another patient. Mr. Templeton.
Old man, advanced dementia, totally
disconnected from reality.
JACK
That reminds me, I owe Lou Dobbs a
call. What about Friday?

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 5.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
ELISA
Mr. Templeton again. Saturday I
work for your mom. Sunday I visit
with my grandmother.
JACK
Monday?
JONATHAN
That’s my murder mystery party.
You still haven’t RSVP’d.
Jack glowers at him.
ELISA
Look, Jack, I know my schedule is
insane. But that’s my life. If at
any point you think I’m too much
trouble I’ll totally get it.
She kisses him and exits. Jack is pensive for a silent beat.
JONATHAN
No one’s signed up to bring swiss
cheese fondu so --
JACK
Shut up.
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary In Jack's office, he awkwardly tries to schedule a date with Elisa while lamenting his mother's many prejudices. Elisa politely declines due to her busy schedule—caring for a patient, working for Jack's mother, and visiting her grandmother. After kissing Jack, she exits. Jonathan reminds Jack of his murder mystery party, but Jack curtly tells him to shut up.
Strengths
  • Clear setup of central obstacle
  • Funny racial identity exchange
  • Efficient character work for Jack and Elisa
Weaknesses
  • Purely functional, no surprise or escalation
  • Jonathan's murder mystery party feels like a placeholder joke
  • Scene ends on a flat note

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to advance the Jack-Elisa romantic subplot with humor and establish the central conflict of their incompatible schedules, which it does effectively through sharp dialogue and character comedy. The main limiter is that the conflict is somewhat repetitive (Elisa keeps listing her commitments) and the scene lacks a strong turn or escalation, so it feels like a functional but not standout beat.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of a high-powered executive dating his mother's nurse and struggling to find time together is a fresh twist on workplace romance, and the scheduling conflict is a relatable and comedic obstacle. However, it's not a wholly original premise, and the execution is more about the joke than deep exploration.

Plot: 6

The plot advances the Jack-Elisa relationship by introducing the scheduling conflict and Jack's failed attempts to find a time to meet. It's a simple, functional plot beat that moves the subplot forward, but it doesn't introduce major twists or turns.

Originality: 7

The scene is original in its specific comedic take on scheduling conflicts in a romance, with fresh jokes about ethnicity and work-life balance, though the overall structure is familiar.


Character Development

Characters: 7

Jack is characterized as privileged and oblivious, Elisa as practical and grounded, and Jonathan as sycophantic and annoying. The scene reinforces these traits but doesn't deepen them significantly, though Elisa's directness and Jack's awkwardness are well-played.

Character Changes: 2

Neither character changes significantly in this scene; Jack remains oblivious, and Elisa remains firm. The scene is more about reinforcing their dynamic than evolving it.

Internal Goal: 5

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 5

The conflict is moderate: Elisa's busy schedule and Jack's desire to see her create a clear obstacle, but it's not high-stakes or emotionally intense. The conflict is more comedic than dramatic.

Opposition: 5

The opposition is Elisa's busy schedule, which acts as a non-antagonistic but firm barrier to Jack's goal, creating a comedic obstacle rather than a villainous one.

High Stakes: 3

The stakes are low: the potential failure of a new relationship, but not life-or-death. The scene doesn't raise the stakes for the overall story.

Story Forward: 5

The scene moves the Jack-Elisa subplot forward by establishing the scheduling conflict, which will likely be a recurring obstacle. It also reinforces Jack's character traits, but it doesn't advance the main plot.

Unpredictability: 7

This scene is unpredictable because of the unexpected turns in dialogue, such as Jack's politically incorrect questions and Jonathan's irrelevant comments, which keep the audience on their toes.

Philosophical Conflict: 4


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 4

The emotional impact is low; the scene is more humorous than moving. There's a hint of poignancy in Elisa's 'if I'm too much trouble' line, but it's quickly undercut by comedy.

Dialogue: 7.5

The dialogue is sharp and comedic, with Jack's politically incorrect questions and Jonathan's irrelevant interjections providing humor. However, some lines feel like they're trying too hard for a joke, and the repetition of Elisa's schedule becomes a bit monotonous.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because of the witty dialogue and the comedic tension between Jack's persistence and Elisa's resistance, keeping the audience amused and curious about how they'll resolve it.

Pacing: 7

The pacing of the scene is brisk, with quick exchanges and a steady rhythm that maintains comedic momentum, though the repetition of Elisa's schedule slightly drags.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard screenplay format, with clear dialogue attribution and minimal action lines. It's easy to read and follow.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic comedy structure: setup (Jack's attempt), obstacle (Elisa's schedule), and punchline (Jonathan's interruption). It's effective but formulaic.


Critique
  • The scene efficiently establishes the central conflict of Jack and Elisa's relationship—their incompatible schedules and the social/racial awkwardness—but it feels rushed. Jack's question about what to call Elisa is a good character beat (his ignorance and privilege), but it's undercut by the rapid shift to scheduling logistics. The humor of Jack's 'Lou Dobbs' non-sequitur lands, but it diminishes the sincerity of the moment.
  • Jonathan's interjection about the murder mystery party feels like a forced comedic beat that disrupts the emotional rhythm. While it sets up a callback to his character's quirks, it makes the scene feel fragmented and prevents Jack from having a genuine reaction to Elisa's potential exit.
  • Elisa's offer to leave if she's 'too much trouble' is a strong character moment—she's independent and not willing to be a burden. However, the scene doesn't give Jack enough time to process or respond. His pensive silence is a good start, but the transition to Jonathan's fondu line feels like a whiplash, undercutting the emotional weight.
  • The scene's pacing is too quick. Key beats—Jack's awkwardness about ethnicity, Elisa's busy schedule, her vulnerable exit—are all crammed into a short exchange. This could benefit from a slower rhythm or an additional beat where Jack acknowledges his own shortcomings or makes a small gesture of compromise.
Suggestions
  • Add a brief moment of silence after Elisa leaves, allowing Jack to show vulnerability or regret before Jonathan interrupts. This would give the audience time to feel the stakes of the relationship.
  • Consider cutting Jonathan's murder mystery party line or moving it to a different scene. It feels like an unnecessary distraction here. Instead, let the scene end with Jack's pensive silence, then cut to the next scene for comedic relief.
  • Expand Jack's response to Elisa's 'too much trouble' offer. He could reassure her with a specific compromise (e.g., offering to rearrange his schedule) or show guilt about his privilege. This would deepen his character and make the romance more believable.
  • Rework the ethnic awkwardness exchange to be either more overtly comedic (with a punchline about Jack's corporate jargon) or more sincere (with Jack admitting his ignorance). As written, it sits in an uncomfortable middle ground that may confuse the tone.
  • Use the scheduling conflict to foreshadow a later scene where Jack surprises Elisa with a solution (like the Xanadu tickets). But in this scene, make Jack's frustration or determination more evident—perhaps a close-up on his face as he subtly resolves to find a way.



Scene 5 -  The Unbreakable Kenneth
INT. STUDIO BACKSTAGE - A LITTLE LATER
Liz notices sick people everywhere. KENNETH approaches.
KENNETH
Miss Lemon, Mr. Donaghy wants you
in the green room for a flu shot
ASAP.
LIZ
Wow, it’s hitting everyone. Until
you get your shot, be careful.
KENNETH
Oh, don’t worry about me. I’ve
never been sick a day in my life.
(whispers)
They say I’m “unbreakable.”

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 6.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
LIZ
No one says that.
Liz heads towards the green room.
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Backstage, Liz Lemon sees many sick colleagues and is summoned by Kenneth for a flu shot from Jack. Kenneth claims he's never been sick, boastfully whispers he's 'unbreakable,' but Liz dismisses his claim as she heads to the green room.
Strengths
  • Kenneth's 'unbreakable' boast is a memorable character beat
  • Efficient plot movement
Weaknesses
  • No character depth or change
  • No conflict or complication
  • Generic dialogue

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 5.5

This brief transitional scene efficiently advances the flu subplot and reinforces Liz's self-absorbed optimism, but it lacks substantial conflict or character development, serving mainly as a setup for the upcoming vaccination scene.


Story Content

Concept: 6

The concept of a flu outbreak in a writers' room is a familiar comedic trope, but the specific detail of Kenneth's 'unbreakable' claim adds a fresh, quirky twist.

Plot: 5

The scene advances the flu subplot by showing Liz's awareness of the outbreak and her directive to Kenneth, but it doesn't significantly move the main plot forward.

Originality: 6

The scene is a familiar setup, but Kenneth's 'unbreakable' claim is a fresh, quirky detail that adds originality.


Character Development

Characters: 6

Liz's cheerful obliviousness and Kenneth's earnestness are on display, but neither character undergoes any change or reveals new depth.

Character Changes: 0

No character changes in this scene; it's a static moment.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 5


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 2

There is minimal conflict; the scene is more of a setup than a confrontation.

Opposition: 2

The opposition is minimal; the flu is a vague threat, but no character actively opposes Liz.

High Stakes: 3

The stakes are low; the main concern is Liz's potential exposure to the flu, but it's not presented as high-stakes.

Story Forward: 4

The scene moves the story forward by setting up the flu shot event and reinforcing the flu outbreak, but it's a minor progression.

Unpredictability: 5

The scene is somewhat predictable, but Kenneth's 'unbreakable' line is a small surprise that adds charm.

Philosophical Conflict: 3


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 3

The scene is light and humorous, but it doesn't evoke strong emotions; it's more of a comedic beat.

Dialogue: 6.5

The dialogue is snappy and in-character, with Kenneth's whispered 'unbreakable' line being a highlight, but the exchange is brief and lacks the wit of the surrounding scenes.

Engagement: 5.5

This scene is engaging because it's quick, humorous, and sets up a potential comedic situation (the flu shot), but it's not deeply compelling.

Pacing: 6.5

The pacing is brisk, with a quick exchange that moves the scene along efficiently, but it feels a bit rushed.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is clean and standard for a screenplay, with clear action lines and dialogue.

Structure: 6

The scene is a simple setup: Liz notices sick people, Kenneth delivers a message, and she heads off. It's a standard transitional beat.


Critique
  • The scene is extremely short (approximately 30 seconds of screen time) and functions primarily as a plot transition. While brevity can be effective, this scene lacks any comedic or dramatic payoff. Kenneth's boast about being 'unbreakable' is a good character note, but it's delivered in a flat way with no punchline or visual emphasis. Liz's dismissive 'No one says that' feels too muted for her character—she's usually more sarcastic or exasperated. The scene also misses an opportunity to show the severity of the flu or to create a moment of tension (e.g., Kenneth subtly coughing or showing a tell). Additionally, the setting is described as 'backstage' but the description only says 'sick people everywhere' without any vivid detail; we don't feel the atmosphere of illness that was built up in earlier scenes. The dialogue is functional but uninspired, and the scene ends with Liz simply walking away, leaving the moment flat.
  • The scene fails to advance any subplot or character relationship. Liz and Kenneth interact, but there's no mutual dynamic—she just gives a warning, he brags, she dismisses him. Given that Kenneth will later play a role in the vaccine controversy (he refuses a shot and gets sick), this scene could have planted seeds of irony (e.g., Kenneth showing a symptom but denying it). The transition from Jack's 'Shut up' line in the previous scene to Liz backstage also feels abrupt; we don't see what Jack is doing or feel a connection between the two storylines.
  • The visual instruction 'Liz notices sick people everywhere' is too vague. The script could benefit from a specific beat—perhaps a prop or a background actor that emphasizes the flu's spread. The tone is also inconsistent: earlier scenes had sharp, witty banter about vacations and class, but this scene's dialogue is flat and expository. Kenneth's whisper is meant to be humorous, but the delivery doesn't land.
Suggestions
  • Add a physical tell for Kenneth: as he says 'I've never been sick a day in my life,' have him briefly cough or sniffle, which he quickly hides. Liz could notice but decide not to call him out, adding a layer of ironic foreshadowing.
  • Expand the exchange by having Liz react more characteristically. For example: Liz: 'Wow, you’re like a human anti-freeze. The tiny, all-hearing kind.' Kenneth: 'That's right! They call me...' (leans in) '...unbreakable.' Liz: 'They don't. But I appreciate the confidence.' This keeps the beat but adds Liz's trademark sarcasm.
  • Use the background to enhance the atmosphere. Before Kenneth arrives, have a stagehand collapse into a chair or a prop fall due to a sick grip. Liz could have a moment of realization that this is serious, making her urgency to get the shot more justified later.
  • Insert a visual callback: Liz wipes her hand on her clothes after touching a doorknob, or she uses a prop bottle of hand sanitizer (that she later loses). This subtly reinforces her later hypocrisy.
  • Cut the scene entirely and fold this information into the beginning of Scene 6 (in the green room). The transition would be: Jack is already there, Dr. Spaceman is preparing, and Liz enters complaining about the rampant flu—then we get the same Kenneth boast during their conversation. This would tighten the structure and avoid a throwaway scene.



Scene 6 -  Vaccine Rationing and Racial Missteps
INT. GREEN ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Jack is with DR. SPACEMAN who prepares to give him a shot.
DR. SPACEMAN
Boy I hate giving shots. But I’m a
professional so I’ve gotten drunk.
(brandishing shot)
Jack, I need to ask you to drop
your pants.
Jack does. Dr. Spaceman gives Jack a shot in the arm. Jack
reacts, then buckles up. Liz enters.
JACK
Lemon, there you are. We need to
get you vaccinated. Leo...
DR. SPACEMAN
Hold on, I’m losing my buzz.
Dr. Spaceman begins fixing himself a drink. Liz reacts.
DR. SPACEMAN (CONT'D)
Don’t worry, Liz. Alcohol’s been
scientifically proven to increase
focus and dexterity. Not to
mention sexual performance.
JACK
Lemon, I don’t know what to do
about Elisa. She works all the
time. I guess it comes with dating
a second generation Puerto Rican.
LIZ
Jack, you can’t call her that.
JACK
That’s what I thought.
(then)
(MORE)

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 7.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JACK (CONT'D)
As you know, I jumped head first
into this thing because she was a
crutch when I found that strange
thing on my left ball...
LIZ
(re: them)
This has gotten too comfortable.
JACK
The early part of a relationship is
so fragile; if we don’t see each
other it could die before we find
out what we have. It’s hopeless.
Our schedules are too complicated.
LIZ
You know, you said the same thing
about C.C.
JACK
I did, didn’t I? With C.C., I was
only willing to meet halfway and
things fell apart. If Elisa’s that
busy, I’m going to come to her.
LIZ
Look at you growing. Good for you.
DR. SPACEMAN
(to Liz, holds syringe)
Is this the arm you want it in?
LIZ
That’s my face.
She rolls up her sleeve to let Spaceman at her.
JACK
Now my friend at the CDC could only
get me a few shots, so you’ll need
to tell me who on your staff is
important enough to keep well.
LIZ
(stopping Spaceman)
Whoa. We’re rationing care?
There’s like special shots for the
elite? That’s wrong, Jack.
JACK
Please don’t take one of your
ethical stands -- it’s so boring.
(MORE)

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 8.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JACK (CONT'D)
Lemon, you’re talented, you work
hard, like it or not, you’re elite
and you deserve the benefits:
better health care, getting out of
jury duty, early warnings for
natural disasters. Come on, you
don’t want to be sick on vacation.
LIZ
It so happens my vacation is
canceled but that’s irrelevant.
Unlike you, I do not place myself
above anyone else.
(then)
I am from Whitehaven, P.A. damn it!
Jack reacts, confused. Liz storms off haughtily. A beat.
DR. SPACEMAN
I’m going to rock a turkish bath.
New school. You want insies?
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Dr. Spaceman, drunk, gives Jack a shot while Jack discusses his relationship with Elisa, mislabeling her as second-generation Puerto Rican. Liz corrects him, then argues with Jack over his plan to ration vaccines for the elite, declaring she's from Whitehaven and storming off.
Strengths
  • sharp philosophical conflict
  • strong character voices
  • efficient plot setup
  • funny Dr. Spaceman beats
Weaknesses
  • internal goals are lightly dramatized
  • scene is more setup than payoff

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to advance both Jack's romantic subplot and Liz's ethical stance, which it does with sharp dialogue and character beats. However, the scene is limited by its reliance on exposition and the somewhat abrupt shift from Jack's relationship woes to the healthcare debate, which could be more seamlessly integrated.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of rationing flu shots among the elite is a fresh take on workplace privilege, and the juxtaposition of Jack's personal dilemma with Liz's ethical stand is clever. However, the execution feels a bit on-the-nose, and the scene's concept is not fully explored beyond the surface.

Plot: 6

The scene advances Jack's relationship plot by showing his willingness to compromise, and it introduces a new conflict for Liz regarding healthcare ethics. However, the plot progression is somewhat static, as the main action is dialogue-driven and the resolution of the ethical debate is deferred.

Originality: 7

The scene offers a fresh take on workplace comedy by addressing healthcare rationing, a timely topic, with humor. The character dynamics are original, especially Dr. Spaceman's unprofessionalism, but the overall structure is familiar.


Character Development

Characters: 7

Jack's character is developed through his admission of past failure with C.C. and his decision to go to Elisa, showing growth. Liz's character is reinforced as principled, but her storming off feels a bit petulant. Dr. Spaceman adds comic relief but is underutilized.

Character Changes: 4

Jack shows a willingness to change by deciding to go to Elisa, a shift from his previous stance. Liz remains static, reaffirming her principles. Dr. Spaceman's character is unchanged, serving as comic relief.

Internal Goal: 7

External Goal: 6


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 5

The conflict is primarily ideological between Jack and Liz, with a secondary internal conflict for Jack regarding his relationship. The opposition is clear but not high-stakes, as the scene focuses on dialogue rather than action.

Opposition: 5

The opposition is primarily ideological, with Jack representing the elite perspective and Liz the egalitarian one. The opposition is clear but not physically or emotionally intense, as it's a verbal debate.

High Stakes: 5

The stakes are moderate: Jack's relationship is at risk, and Liz's ethical stand could have consequences for her staff's health. However, the scene does not raise the stakes significantly, as the immediate outcomes are not shown.

Story Forward: 5

The scene moves the story forward by setting up Jack's next move in his relationship and introducing a new conflict for Liz regarding the flu shots, which may have future repercussions. However, the scene is more character-driven than plot-driven.

Unpredictability: 6

The scene is somewhat predictable in its setup, but the specific details, like Dr. Spaceman's drunkenness and Liz's 'Whitehaven' outburst, add unexpected humor. The resolution of the ethical debate is left open, which is a slight twist.

Philosophical Conflict: 7


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 5

The scene has moments of emotional resonance, particularly Jack's vulnerability about his relationship and Liz's passionate defense of equality. However, the comedic tone undercuts the emotional depth, and the impact is moderate.

Dialogue: 7.5

The dialogue is sharp and witty, with memorable lines like 'I am from Whitehaven, P.A. damn it!' and Dr. Spaceman's drunken musings. However, some exchanges feel expository, particularly Jack's explanation of his relationship issues, which could be shown more dynamically.

Engagement: 7

The scene is engaging due to the witty banter and the moral dilemma, which keeps the reader interested in how Liz will resolve her conflict. The comedic elements, like Dr. Spaceman's drunkenness, add entertainment value.

Pacing: 7

The pacing is brisk, with quick exchanges and a fast-moving dialogue that keeps the scene lively. The shift from Jack's relationship talk to the healthcare debate is quick, but it maintains momentum.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard for a screenplay, with clear scene headings, character names in caps, and parentheticals for actions. The dialogue is well-formatted, and the action lines are concise. No major issues.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic sitcom structure: setup (Jack and Liz in the green room), conflict (the ethical debate), and a punchline (Liz's storming off). It's effective for comedy, though the transition from Jack's relationship talk to the healthcare debate feels a bit abrupt.


Critique
  • The scene attempts to juggle multiple comedic and dramatic threads (Dr. Spaceman's drunk incompetence, Jack's relationship anxiety, Liz's ethical stand), but the tonal shifts feel abrupt. The transition from Jack's vulnerable confession to Liz's principled refusal lacks a clear emotional bridge, making her outburst feel preachy rather than earned.
  • Dr. Spaceman's 'I'm losing my buzz' and subsequent drink-fixing are funny but derail the scene's pacing. The sexual performance comment feels gratuitous and doesn't advance character or conflict. Consider trimming this to maintain focus on the core tension between Jack and Liz.
  • Jack's line about 'second generation Puerto Rican' is awkwardly handled - the script seems aware of its offensiveness but doesn't commit to a punchline or payoff. The back-and-forth about terminology ('That's what I thought') feels redundant and slows the dialogue.
  • Liz's sudden reference to Whitehaven, PA feels forced. As a writer, you're telling us about her background rather than showing it through action or organic dialogue. This line would land better if her history had been established earlier or if she used a more specific, personal anecdote to counter Jack's elitism.
  • The scene ends with Spaceman's Turkish bath line, which undercuts Liz's dramatic exit. While this is typical 30 Rock absurdity, it weakens the emotional stakes of Liz's stand. Consider cutting the final line or having Spaceman react to her exit in a way that underscores the scene's theme.
Suggestions
  • Reveal Liz's ethical stand through a more personal motivation. For example, show her remembering a specific instance from childhood (Whitehaven) where she witnessed unfairness, making her refusal feel authentic rather than rhetorical.
  • Streamline Spaceman's role: remove the drink-fixing and focus on his medical incompetence as comic relief while Jack and Liz argue. Let his silence or facial reactions punctuate their conflict instead of distracting dialogue.
  • Rewrite Jack's confession about Elisa to be less expositional. Show his desperation through subtext (e.g., he keeps glancing at his phone or repeats himself) rather than directly stating 'Our schedules are too complicated.'
  • Add a beat where Liz hesitates before refusing the shot - perhaps she touches her face (where the shot would go) or glances at a photo of the beach. This would create internal conflict and make her eventual storm-off more impactful.
  • Replace the final Turkish bath line with a silent beat: Jack stares at the empty door, Spaceman holds the syringe awkwardly, then a slow fade to black. This would allow the audience to sit with Liz's choice and its consequences.



Scene 7 -  An Unexpected Escape
INT. MR. TEMPLETON’S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Elisa tends to CARL TEMPLETON, (think Carl Reiner) a sweet
old man who sits staring off into space. Elisa answers a
knock at the door. It’s Jack, carrying a picnic basket.
ELISA
Jack. What are you doing here?
JACK
I needed to see you.
(re: picnic basket)
I brought dinner, desert, wine...
ELISA
Jack, this so nice but I’m working.
Mr. Templeton’s son is in Europe
and I’m entrusted with his care.
I’m sorry, but this is my job.
JACK
What if you quit? I’m rich. I
could give you money and you could
spend time with me.
ELISA
So I’d be your hooker.

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 9.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JACK
People love hookers. They’re the
new “it” girls. Have you heard
Ashley Dupre’s music? It’s not
bad.
(off her look)
Come on, don’t you ever want a
little time for yourself?
ELISA
Of course. I’ve been in New York
fifteen years and I’ve never seen a
Broadway play or gone to a fun
restaurant. I work so hard I never
even get the chance to have a
romantic dinner with a sweet guy...
They lock eyes. He puts his hands on her shoulders.
JACK
(lost in her eyes)
Come on. Let tonight be for us.
Just me and my “P.R.” girl.
ELISA
(lost in his eyes)
That’s offensive.
JACK
Good to know.
They kiss then fall onto the couch. ANGLE ON Mr. Templeton.
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Elisa, a caretaker for the elderly Mr. Templeton, is surprised by Jack's arrival with a picnic. He urges her to abandon her duties for a romantic night, even offering money. Their playful banter turns serious as they acknowledge her lack of personal time. They share a kiss and fall onto the couch, while Mr. Templeton remains unresponsive.
Strengths
  • Strong romantic chemistry between Jack and Elisa
  • Clear external goal conflict
  • Darkly comic use of Mr. Templeton as silent observer
  • Efficient escalation to kiss
Weaknesses
  • Predictable plot progression
  • Ashley Dupre reference feels dated
  • Mr. Templeton is underutilized as a source of comedy or tension

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to advance the Jack-Elisa romance with comedic beats, and it largely succeeds through sharp dialogue and a sweetly awkward dynamic, but the overall impact is limited by the abrupt tonal shift from romantic to absurdist humor that undercuts the emotional stakes.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of a wealthy executive trying to buy his girlfriend's time by suggesting she quit her job is a fresh take on the 'romantic gesture' trope, but it's undercut by the joke about hookers that feels more like a punchline than a genuine offer.

Plot: 5.5

The scene advances the Jack-Elisa relationship by showing his willingness to go to her, but the plot is thin—it's a single location, single beat scene that doesn't introduce new complications beyond the existing scheduling conflict.

Originality: 6

The scene is original in its comedic take on the romantic picnic, but the hooker joke feels like a recycled 30 Rock trope, and the overall situation is familiar.


Character Development

Characters: 6.5

Jack's persistence and Elisa's professionalism are well-drawn, but the scene relies on their established dynamic rather than revealing new depths; Mr. Templeton is a silent prop, not a character.

Character Changes: 3

Jack shows growth by coming to Elisa instead of expecting her to come to him, but the change is subtle and not fully explored; Elisa remains unchanged.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 4

The conflict is external—Elisa's job vs. Jack's desire—but it's low-stakes and resolved by a kiss, lacking the tension of the earlier scene where Elisa listed her schedule.

Opposition: 3

The opposition is Elisa's job and her professional commitment, which is a soft obstacle that she easily overcomes for a kiss, so the opposition is weak.

High Stakes: 3

The stakes are low—the relationship is new and the conflict is a scheduling issue, not a life-or-death matter, so the scene feels low-stakes.

Story Forward: 4

The scene moves the romance forward by having them kiss, but it doesn't resolve the scheduling conflict or introduce new plot threads, so the story advances minimally.

Unpredictability: 6

This scene is unpredictable because Jack's offer to make Elisa his 'hooker' is a surprising and absurd twist on a romantic gesture, but the overall outcome (a kiss) is predictable.

Philosophical Conflict: 5


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 5

The scene has a sweet moment when they lock eyes, but the emotional impact is diluted by the comedic tone and the abrupt cut to Mr. Templeton, which undercuts the romance.

Dialogue: 7.5

The dialogue is sharp and character-specific, with Jack's 'P.R. girl' line and Elisa's deadpan 'That's offensive' landing well, but the hooker joke feels forced and slightly off-tone for the romantic moment.

Engagement: 6

This scene is engaging because the romantic tension between Jack and Elisa is palpable, and the dialogue is witty, but the low stakes and lack of new information reduce the pull.

Pacing: 6.5

The pacing of the scene is effective because it moves quickly from Jack's arrival to the kiss, but the dialogue-heavy middle section could be tightened to maintain momentum.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 7

The formatting is standard screenplay format with clear scene headings and action lines, but the 'ANGLE ON Mr. Templeton' is a bit clunky and could be more cinematic.

Structure: 6

The scene follows a classic romantic comedy structure: setup (Jack arrives), conflict (Elisa refuses), and resolution (they kiss), but the ending with Mr. Templeton is a visual gag that doesn't integrate with the structure.


Critique
  • The scene moves too quickly from Elisa calling Jack's 'P.R. girl' comment offensive to them kissing. This undermines her objection and makes her seem inconsistent—she rightly calls out a microaggression but then immediately ignores it for romance. The humor of 'Good to know' feels like a brush-off that doesn't earn its punchline because Elisa's emotional reaction isn't given space.
  • Jack's suggestion that Elisa quit her job and he pay her comes across as tone-deaf and patronizing, but the scene treats it as a lighthearted joke rather than a genuine conflict point. Given that Elisa's independence and work ethic were established in Scene 4 (busy schedule), this moment should either be challenged more seriously or played for more uncomfortable comedy.
  • The Ashley Dupre reference is dated and feels like a throwaway line that doesn't land. It distracts from the romantic tension and weakens Jack's charm—he's supposed to be winning her over, but this joke makes him seem out of touch.
  • The ending angle on Mr. Templeton is a classic 30 Rock visual gag, but it undercuts the emotional weight of the kiss. The scene could benefit from lingering on Elisa's face or Jack's surprise to sell the romance more, then cutting to Mr. Templeton for the punchline.
  • The scene feels disconnected from the flu-shot subplot running in parallel (Scenes 5-6). Jack's big romantic gesture seems to ignore his earlier conversation with Liz about Elisa's busy schedule; there's no sense that he learned anything from that discussion.
Suggestions
  • Add a beat of hesitation from Elisa after Jack says 'P.R. girl.' Show an internal struggle—she could turn away for a moment, then decide to give in despite the offense, making her choice more meaningful and complex.
  • Rewrite the Ashley Dupre joke to something more timeless and specific to Jack's character, like a comment about how 'everyone loves a self-made woman' or a reference to a classic business mogul's mistress trope.
  • Strengthen the conflict by having Jack acknowledge the weirdness of his offer. For example, after she says 'So I'd be your hooker,' Jack could pause and say, 'That came out wrong. I just want to see you happy.' Then their kiss would feel earned.
  • Insert a line of dialogue from Elisa that explains why she's willing to overlook the offensive comment, such as 'You know what? For once, I don't want to be the one correcting everyone.' This adds depth and makes the kiss a conscious choice.
  • Tie the scene back to the flu epidemic by having Mr. Templeton sneeze or cough during the romantic moment, yanking Jack and Elisa back to reality and reminding the audience of the broader crisis. This would heighten the comedy and connect the storylines.



Scene 8 -  Flu Shot Uprising
INT. STUDIO - THE NEXT DAY
Liz is there with the growing ranks of sick “TGS” STAFF and
CREW. JENNA and TRACY enter, healthy and chipper.
JENNA
Liz, great news. Tracy and I have
been chosen to get flu shots.
TRACY
They said it was a flu shot but I
know it was really truth serum.
LIZ
It was not truth serum.

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 10.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
TRACY
Then why am I telling you I stole
this shirt?!
JENNA
As we’ve been given the gift of
health we would like to help those
here who are less fortunate. We’re
like Brad Pitt and Angelina
Jolie...
TRACY
We’re beautiful and caring...
JENNA
And our best sex is behind us and
happened with Billy Bob Thornton.
TRACY
We’re gonna step up, Liz Lemon.
And that’s truth serum talking!
LIZ
You know you can’t work together.
JENNA
Sounds like a challenge.
LIZ
It’s not. You will make things
worse.
TRACY
That’s it! The fire has been lit
lady who’s boobs I secretly think
look great today!
(to Jenna)
Let’s go woman who’s bathroom I
pooped in and then didn’t flush
‘cause I couldn’t be bothered!
Tracy and Jenna move off. Liz notices Jack talking to
Kenneth who’s now showing clear flu symptoms; he’s feverish
and weak. Jack holds a clipboard.
JACK
Kenneth, we can only give shots to
personnel we deem essential. Your
work ethic is clearly unmatched and
your passion inspires us and
elevates our esprit de corp. So...
(re: clipboard)
(MORE)

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 11.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JACK (CONT'D)
On a scale of one to ten how easily
would you say you can be replaced
by robots?
KENNETH
I don’t need a shot, Mr. Donaghy.
It’d be an honor to die at my post.
My only request is to be given the
traditional burial of a Parcell
man: wrapped in a Confederate Flag,
fried, and fed to dogs.
Liz confronts Jack.
LIZ
This is disgusting. Two-tiered
health care based on class is part
of why this country’s such a mess.
JACK
Lemon, you’re going to want a shot.
Please just get it over with.
LIZ
No, Jack. I don’t bail on my
morals when it’s convenient.
JACK
Self interest is the most moral
defining principle of a society.
People can’t deny their nature
indefinitely. You’ll cave.
LIZ
Oh yeah?
Liz turns and addresses the “TGS” staff and crew.
LIZ (CONT’D)
The “Man” has decided that flu
shots are only for the special few.
But I believe we are all equal at
“TGS”... and as Americans...
(finding it)
And as citizens of the world!
KENNETH
Kill the mine owners! We don’t
need their filthy New York money!

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 12.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
LIZ
I say shots should be for everyone,
or for no one! And that is why I
am refusing a shot!
Everyone cheers louder. Liz basks in the love of the people.
LIZ (CONT’D)
(fist pumps, chanting)
Whitehaven! Whitehaven!!!
Lights out. The crowd goes nuts and joins in chanting Liz’s
confusing chant. Jack shakes his head, “Fucking Lemon.”
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Liz Lemon refuses a flu shot on principle, rallying the sick TGS staff against a two-tiered healthcare system. Despite Jack Donaghy's self-interest argument, she leads a chant of 'Whitehaven' as the crowd cheers, leaving Jack exasperated.
Strengths
  • Sharp character voices
  • Clear philosophical conflict
  • Strong comedic beats (Kenneth's burial, Tracy's truth serum)
  • Efficient setup of episode conflict
Weaknesses
  • Liz's internal change is minimal
  • Scene is more setup than surprise
  • Jenna/Tracy subplot feels slightly tacked on

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.8

The scene's primary job is to dramatize Liz's principled stand against healthcare rationing, which it does with sharp satire and strong character moments, but the pacing lags slightly in the middle with Tracy and Jenna's banter, and the resolution feels abrupt, limiting the overall impact.


Story Content

Concept: 7.2

The concept of using a flu shot rationing as a microcosm of societal inequality is clever and timely, but it's a familiar trope in workplace comedies, and the execution leans on predictable beats.

Plot: 6

The plot advances Liz's moral stance and sets up a potential conflict with Jack, but the scene is more of a set piece than a plot driver, with minimal forward momentum.

Originality: 7

The scene offers a fresh take on healthcare inequality by placing it in a comedy writers' room, with original absurdist details like the 'mine owners' chant, but the overall structure is familiar.


Character Development

Characters: 7.5

Liz's character is reinforced as principled and defiant, while Jack's pragmatism is clear; Tracy and Jenna add comic relief but don't deepen their arcs.

Character Changes: 3

Liz's stance is reaffirmed, but she doesn't undergo a significant change; Jack remains unchanged, so character development is minimal.

Internal Goal: 7

External Goal: 8


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 6

The conflict between Liz and Jack over healthcare rationing is clear and escalating, but it's more ideological than personal, reducing tension.

Opposition: 6

Jack's opposition is strong but not villainous; he represents a systemic force, making the conflict more about ideology than personal antagonism.

High Stakes: 5

The stakes are moderate: Liz risks her health and her relationship with Jack, but the scene doesn't raise the stakes dramatically.

Story Forward: 5

The scene sets up a potential fallout from Liz's refusal, but it doesn't advance the main plot significantly, serving more as a thematic statement.

Unpredictability: 6.5

This scene is unpredictable because of the absurdist humor (e.g., Kenneth's burial, Tracy's truth serum) that subverts expectations, though the core conflict is foreseeable.

Philosophical Conflict: 7.5


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 5.5

The scene evokes a sense of righteous indignation and solidarity, but the humor undercuts deeper emotional resonance.

Dialogue: 8

Dialogue is sharp and witty, with memorable lines like Kenneth's burial request and Tracy's truth serum, but some exchanges feel tangential to the core conflict.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because of its sharp satire and witty dialogue, but the pacing dips during the Tracy/Jenna exchange, and the outcome is predictable.

Pacing: 6

The pacing of the scene contributes to its effectiveness because it builds from a quiet observation to a rousing speech, but the middle section slows the momentum.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

Formatting is standard for a screenplay, with clear scene headings and dialogue, but there are minor issues like the 'MORE' continuation and the 'CUT TO' that are typical.

Structure: 6.5

The scene follows a classic setup-payoff structure: setup of the rationing, confrontation, and Liz's rallying cry, but the middle with Tracy and Jenna feels like a detour.


Critique
  • The scene effectively sets up Liz's principled stand against two-tiered healthcare, which is a core comedic and thematic conflict for the episode. However, the 'truth serum' joke from Tracy feels underdeveloped—it's a one-off that doesn't pay off later and might confuse viewers who expect it to have consequences.
  • Jenna and Tracy's entrance is too brief. Their dynamic as self-centered celebrities trying to be 'helpers' is funny but the scene rushes past their interaction, missing an opportunity to build comedy from their incompetence (e.g., actually trying to help sick crew members).
  • Kenneth's line 'Kill the mine owners!' is a random non sequitur that feels out of character. While his fever-induced delirium could explain it, the joke lands oddly because it doesn't connect to any established backstory or theme in the episode.
  • Liz's 'Whitehaven' chant is a strong moment for her character—tying her moral stand to her humble roots—but the scene underplays Jack's reaction. His 'Fucking Lemon' is a good beat but could be stronger if accompanied by a small physical reaction or a line that foreshadows his later manipulation.
  • The scene lacks a visual or comedic punctuation for the transition to the next scene. The 'Lights out' instruction in the script is vague; a better staging choice might be to have the crowd's chanting fade as Jack watches, creating a subtle irony that Liz's victory is hollow.
  • From a pacing perspective, the scene moves quickly from Jenna/Tracy's joke to the Liz/Jack conflict to Liz's speech. The middle section (Jack questioning Kenneth) feels disconnected—it's a nice character moment for Jack but doesn't serve the main conflict about Liz's refusal.
  • The underlying conflict about Elisa (from previous scenes) is absent here. Jack's role feels reduced to a foil for Liz's speech, missing a chance to connect his personal life (his own ethical compromises with Elisa) to the professional debate about healthcare elitism.
Suggestions
  • Expand Jenna and Tracy's subplot by having them try to assist a sick crew member and fail spectacularly, creating a physical comedy beat that showcases their incompetence while reinforcing the theme that celebrities don't actually solve problems.
  • Cut or rework the 'truth serum' line—either remove it (since it's not paid off) or turn it into a running gag where Tracy keeps claiming things are true because of the serum, creating confusion later.
  • Rewrite Kenneth's 'mine owners' line to something more in character, like 'Please let me die with my radio!' or 'A Parcell man doesn't need a shot—he dies with a smile!' This keeps his quirky pride without the political non sequitur.
  • Add a visual cue for Jack's realization after Liz's speech—maybe he jots a note on his clipboard or mutters a line like 'Five bucks says she's in the green room by lunch,' to set up his prediction that she'll cave.
  • Strengthen the transition by having Kenneth—now clearly delirious—suddenly collapse or start chanting 'Whitehaven' with the crowd, creating a moment of comic dissonance that underscores the absurdity of the situation.
  • Add a brief callback to Jack's relationship subplot: after Liz storms off (in an earlier scene), Jack could glance at his phone or mention Elisa's busy schedule, hinting that both he and Liz are making ethical compromises for personal desires.
  • In the stage directions, specify that the crowd's cheering grows increasingly frantic and ironic, perhaps with sick crew members passing out mid-chant, to heighten the dark comedy of Liz's stand while foreshadowing that her 'victory' is temporary.



Scene 9 -  The Stuck Chair Standoff
INT. STUDIO - A LITTLE LATER
Jenna and Tracy enter surveying sick crew members. Jenna is
dressed in white, hair back, like she’s Madonna in Africa.
JENNA
Don’t worry, everyone, we’re here.
In every great crisis celebrities
have stepped to the fore, from
fixing Africa to ending the scourge
of the irritable bowel.
TRACY
We know you’re sick! If we could
take your places we would! And
those are empty words!
Jenna notices a weakened crew guy struggle to lift a chair in
the prop cage.
JENNA
Take a rest, friend, we’ll do that.
CREW GUY
It’s against union rules.
JENNA
Sounds like a challenge.
Tracy and Jenna enter and push him aside. They start to move
the chair out, but it gets caught in the doorway.

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 13.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JENNA (CONT’D)
Watch my nails! I used the same
manicurist who did Sean Penn before
he went to Afghanistan!
They continue to struggle. They can’t coordinate the move.
TRACY
Higher. Higher! No, I’m saying
that to myself!
(then)
Left. Left! No, that’s a figure
of speech!
Jenna drops the chair.
JENNA
You’re insane.
TRACY
You’re a diva.
JENNA
Liz is right, we can’t work
together, even in a crisis. This
chair is like our relationship...
we’re stuck in a door.
TRACY
No one metaphors me!
Tracy storms off. Jenna clambers over the chair then storms
off.
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Jenna and Tracy attempt to help sick crew members by moving a chair stuck in a doorway, but their petty bickering and inability to coordinate escalate into a metaphorical argument about their relationship. Both storm off separately, leaving the chair and the conflict unresolved.
Strengths
  • Clear character voices
  • Functional physical comedy setup
  • Good comic pacing
Weaknesses
  • Unoriginal premise
  • No character movement
  • No plot advancement
  • Generic prop choice

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.2

This scene's primary job is to deliver a comedic beat that reinforces the show's satirical take on celebrity activism and the flu-shot inequality, which it does with sharp dialogue and a funny physical gag. The biggest limiter is that it's a minor, transitional scene that doesn't advance the main plot or deepen character arcs, so it feels like a filler beat rather than a pivotal moment.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of celebrities 'helping' in a crisis is a familiar trope, but the execution—with Jenna and Tracy's self-absorbed, competitive 'charity'—is a fresh, satirical take. The stuck chair as a metaphor for their relationship is clever and on-brand for the show.

Plot: 5

The scene doesn't advance the main plot (Liz's protest, Jack's relationship) but serves as a comedic interlude that reinforces the theme of inequality and the absurdity of celebrity do-gooding. It's a minor beat in the larger story.

Originality: 7

The scene is original in its specific jokes and the metaphor of the chair, but the overall premise of celebrities 'helping' in a crisis is a familiar trope. The execution is fresh and authentic to the characters.


Character Development

Characters: 6.5

Jenna and Tracy are consistent with their established personas—Jenna's diva narcissism and Tracy's chaotic, non-sequitur energy. Their dynamic is funny, but the scene doesn't reveal anything new about them; it's a surface-level showcase of their quirks.

Character Changes: 1

Neither Jenna nor Tracy undergoes any significant change; they remain the same self-absorbed characters. The scene is more about reinforcing their dynamic than evolving it.

Internal Goal: 5

External Goal: 6


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 3

The conflict is low-stakes and comedic: Jenna and Tracy's inability to work together, symbolized by the stuck chair. It's a minor friction point, not a major dramatic confrontation.

Opposition: 2

The opposition is minimal—the chair itself and their own incompetence. There's no external antagonist, just their own flaws.

High Stakes: 2

The stakes are very low—the only 'stakes' are whether Jenna and Tracy can move a chair, which is played for comedy. There's no real consequence or urgency.

Story Forward: 2

The scene doesn't move the main story forward; it's a comedic aside that could be cut without affecting the plot. It does, however, reinforce the theme of inequality that Liz is fighting against.

Unpredictability: 6

The scene is somewhat predictable in its setup (celebrities fail to help), but the specific jokes and Tracy's non-sequiturs add an element of surprise, like 'No one metaphors me!'

Philosophical Conflict: 5


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 3

The scene is funny but not emotionally resonant. It's designed to elicit laughs, not tears or deep feeling, so the emotional impact is minimal.

Dialogue: 7.5

The dialogue is sharp and witty, with memorable lines like 'No one metaphors me!' and the Sean Penn reference. It captures the characters' voices perfectly, but some jokes (like the 'empty words' line) feel a bit on-the-nose.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because of the rapid-fire comedic dialogue and the physical comedy of the stuck chair, which creates a visual gag that keeps the audience entertained.

Pacing: 8

The pacing is brisk, with quick exchanges and a fast-moving physical gag. The scene doesn't overstay its welcome, and the comedic beats land efficiently.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard screenplay format with clear action lines and dialogue. The use of parentheticals and ellipses is effective for comedic timing. No issues.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic comedic structure: setup (celebrities arrive to help), complication (they struggle with the chair), and punchline (they storm off). It's a self-contained sketch that works well for a sitcom.


Critique
  • The scene feels like a tonal shift from the previous high-energy, crowd-pleasing moment where Liz rallied the staff. After Liz's passionate speech and the 'Whitehaven!' chant, the story cuts to a minor subplot with Jenna and Tracy that doesn't advance the main conflict (the flu shot standoff). This can deflate momentum.
  • The comedy relies on physical slapstick (struggling with a chair) and bickering dialogue, but it lacks the sharp social satire or character depth present in earlier scenes. Jenna's 'Madonna in Africa' costume is a funny visual, but it's underutilized. The scene feels like filler.
  • The chair-as-metaphor for Jenna and Tracy's relationship is too on-the-nose. Tracy's line 'No one metaphors me!' is a decent punchline, but the setup is clunky. The scene ends with both storming off, which resolves nothing and leaves the audience wondering why it was included.
  • The scene does nothing to show the consequences of Liz's decision not to get a flu shot, nor does it deepen the themes of healthcare inequality or celebrity hypocrisy. It's a standalone gag that could be cut without losing any plot or character development.
  • The union rule joke ('It’s against union rules') is a quick throwaway that could be expanded for more absurdity, but as written, it feels like a missed opportunity for workplace humor.
Suggestions
  • Consider cutting this scene entirely and using the screen time to show the immediate fallout of Liz's speech—perhaps a montage of sick crew members attempting to work, or Jack plotting a countermove. This would keep the narrative focused on the central conflict.
  • If the scene is kept, tighten it to 30 seconds. Remove the chair struggle and have Jenna and Tracy simply walk through, make one absurd comment about 'helping,' then leave. This preserves the joke of their incompetence without derailing the episode's flow.
  • Turn the scene into a setup for later: have the crew guy sneeze on Tracy or Jenna, infecting them and leading to a comedic reversal where the healthy stars become sick. This would tie the subplot back to the flu crisis.
  • Rework the dialogue to contrast with Liz's moral stance: Jenna and Tracy could mock the 'everyone or no one' philosophy while showing their own selfishness. For example, Jenna could say, 'We're celebrities—we're like superheroes, but with better shoes.' This reinforces the episode's critique of elitism.
  • Replace the chair metaphor with a physical gag that actually advances character: maybe Jenna and Tracy accidentally knock over a tray of food meant for sick crew members, leading to a selfish fight over the last granola bar. This would highlight their self-absorption in a crisis.



Scene 10 -  A Date with a Twist
INT. JACK’S OFFICE/MR. TEMPLETON’S LIVING ROOM - LATER
Jack is on the phone. SPLIT SCREEN with Elisa.
JACK
I had a wonderful time last night.
ELISA
I did too. For me picnics usually
involve my Uncle Roberto getting
smashed and doing Carlos Mencia
jokes. And not the good ones he
steals from D.L. Hughley.
(then)
(MORE)

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 14.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
ELISA (CONT'D)
I’m really lucky to have met a man
willing to work around my schedule.
JACK
Whatever it takes. Tonight?
ELISA
Mr. Templeton again. I’m sorry.
JACK
It’s okay. I’m just dying to show
you the New York you’ve never seen,
take you to a play...
ELISA
(laughs)
Well, maybe someday we can have a
date where we’re not stuck at a
patient’s house. Adios, querido.
JACK
Adios, querido.
Jack hangs up thinking. A beat. He has an idea.
JACK (CONT’D)
Jonathan! I need front row tickets
to “Xanadu” tonight.
(purposefully)
Three tickets.
Jonathan, looks up, giddy. Can the third one be for him?
SMASH CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Jack calls Elisa to arrange a date, but she's stuck at a patient's house. Jack hatches a plan to include the patient by ordering three front-row tickets to 'Xanadu,' with his assistant Jonathan eagerly wondering if he gets one.
Strengths
  • Clear external goals driving the scene
  • Absurdist twist (three tickets to Xanadu)
  • Strong character voice in Elisa's dialogue
  • Efficient plot advancement
Weaknesses
  • Lack of character change or emotional depth
  • Internal goals are thin
  • No philosophical conflict

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to advance Jack and Elisa's romance while maintaining the show's comedic tone, which it does effectively through witty dialogue and a charming split-screen. The main limiter is the lack of significant conflict or plot development, making it a transitional scene that could benefit from a stronger comedic or dramatic beat to elevate its impact.


Story Content

Concept: 6.5

The concept of a split-screen phone call between a busy executive and a nurse, with Jack's impulsive plan to buy three tickets, is a fresh take on the 'scheduling conflict' trope, but it's not particularly innovative.

Plot: 6

The scene advances the Jack-Elisa subplot by showing their mutual affection and Jack's determination to overcome scheduling obstacles, but it doesn't introduce new conflicts or major plot twists.

Originality: 6.5

The split-screen phone call is a common device, but the specific details—Elisa's uncle's Carlos Mencia jokes and the 'Xanadu' tickets—add originality to the dialogue.


Character Development

Characters: 7

Jack's character is consistent—charming, persistent, and slightly clueless about romance—while Elisa is portrayed as practical and caring. Their dynamic is believable, but neither character undergoes significant change here.

Character Changes: 3

Jack shows a willingness to adapt his schedule for Elisa, a slight change from his usual self-centeredness, but it's not a major transformation.

Internal Goal: 5

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 3

The conflict is mild—Elisa's work schedule vs. Jack's desire for a date—but it's resolved quickly with Jack's plan, so tension is low.

Opposition: 3

The opposition is Elisa's work schedule, which is a mild obstacle, but Jack's plan to overcome it is straightforward, so the opposition is weak.

High Stakes: 3

The stakes are low—this is a personal relationship moment, not a high-tension plot point.

Story Forward: 5

The scene moves the romance forward by solidifying their connection and setting up a potential date, but it doesn't advance other plotlines.

Unpredictability: 5

The scene is somewhat predictable—Jack's plan to buy three tickets is a typical sitcom move—but the 'Xanadu' reference adds a quirky twist.

Philosophical Conflict: 4


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 5

The scene has a warm, affectionate tone, but it doesn't evoke strong emotions; it's more charming than moving.

Dialogue: 7.5

The dialogue is sharp and in-character, with Elisa's humorous anecdote about her uncle and Jack's 'Adios, querido' showing their chemistry. However, the exchange is brief and lacks the rapid-fire wit of the show's best scenes.

Engagement: 6.5

This scene is engaging because of the charming dialogue and the anticipation of Jack's plan, but it's not a high-stakes moment that grips the reader.

Pacing: 7

The pacing is brisk, with the phone call and quick cut to Jonathan keeping the scene moving, but it feels a bit rushed, lacking a moment to breathe.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard for a screenplay, with clear split-screen notation and dialogue attribution. It's easy to follow.

Structure: 7

The scene uses a split-screen to show both characters, then a smash cut to Jonathan, which is a classic sitcom structure for a phone call scene. It's effective but predictable.


Critique
  • The scene is functional but lacks dramatic tension or character depth. It serves primarily as a plot bridge to set up Jack's plan to bring Mr. Templeton to the play, but the phone call itself feels too smooth—no conflict, no humor beyond Elisa's mention of her uncle. The dialogue is pleasant but flat; Jack is overly accommodating without any of his typical sharpness or ego, which feels slightly out of character given his earlier scene where he needed to be corrected by Liz.
  • The split screen device is clear but underutilized. There's no visual storytelling on either side; both characters are just on the phone, and the camera does nothing with their physicality or surroundings. Jack's 'thinking' beat before he calls Jonathan feels rushed—we don't see the moment of inspiration, which would make the 'idea' more impactful.
  • Elisa's admission about never having a romantic dinner or seeing a play is emotionally resonant, but it's delivered almost as an aside. The scene could benefit from a stronger moment of vulnerability or connection before the 'Adios, querido' exchange. As written, the romantic stakes feel low.
  • Jonathan's giddy reaction to the third ticket is a nice beat, but it's a simple punchline that doesn't build on anything. Similarly, the 'smash cut' feels abrupt; the scene doesn't earn a dramatic transition. The tone is more procedural than comedic or emotional.
Suggestions
  • Add a small conflict or misunderstanding during the phone call—maybe Jack misinterprets Elisa's reluctance or she picks up on his hesitation about the three-ticket plan. This would create a comedic or romantic beat that makes the resolution (his idea) more satisfying.
  • Extend Jack's 'thinking' moment: show a brief flash of his expression shifting from dejected to inspired, or have him mutter a line to himself that reveals his thought process. This would make the audience feel the cleverness of his plan.
  • Give Elisa a more distinctive voice in this scene—perhaps she reveals a quirk about her job or a hint of her own ambition, which would make her more than just a sweet love interest. For example, she could joke about wanting to see a play that's been reviewed badly, showing her humor and practicality.
  • Consider adding a visual gag: while Jack is on the phone, the camera could show Mr. Templeton in the background (if we're in his house) doing something absurd, tying back to the 'What the hell?' moment later. Or on Jack's side, show a prop or object that hints at his plan (like a playbill on his desk).
  • Make Jonathan's reaction more absurd—perhaps he already has a bag packed, or he squeals inappropriately. This would heighten the comedic contrast with Jack's determined but romantic mission.
  • If possible, trim Elisa's uncle joke slightly and replace it with a line that underscores her isolation or her surprise at Jack's persistence. This would make the 'maybe someday' line more poignant and the three-ticket plan more romantic.



Scene 11 -  A Night at the Roller Spectacular
INT. BROADWAY THEATER - NIGHT
Jack and Elisa sit in the front row. She is decked out,
glowing with excitement. WIDEN TO REVEAL Mr. Templeton
sitting next them with his distant, vacant stare.
JACK
I know we’re pushing it here, so
the second you feel uncomfortable --
ELISA
Quiet! It’s starting!
(enrapt)
The Broadway roller skating
spectacular is starting.

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 15.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
The lights dim as Olivia Newton John’s “I’m Alive” plays.
Elisa snuggles into Jack’s side. He’s in heaven. ANGLE ON
Mr. Templeton staring.
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Jack and Elisa attend a Broadway roller skating show, but Jack's concern over their risky outing is brushed aside by Elisa's excitement. As the lights dim and music plays, Elisa snuggles into Jack, who is blissful, while the unresponsive Mr. Templeton stares vacantly beside them.
Strengths
  • Clear romantic payoff
  • Perfect absurdist detail (roller skating spectacular)
  • Strong character consistency
  • Efficient scene length
Weaknesses
  • No new tension or complication
  • Purely reactive—no forward plot motion
  • Mr. Templeton is underutilized as more than a prop

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to pay off Jack's romantic gesture with a comedic twist, and it lands well with the visual gag of Mr. Templeton as a third wheel. The biggest limiter is the brevity—it's a quick beat that doesn't deepen the relationship or conflict, so it feels like a punchline rather than a full scene.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of a romantic date at a Broadway show with a catatonic patient in tow is fresh and funny, but it's a simple gag that doesn't expand beyond the initial joke.

Plot: 6

The scene advances the Jack-Elisa subplot by showing Jack's willingness to accommodate her schedule, but it's a minor beat with no major plot movement.

Originality: 7.5

The idea of bringing a patient to a date is original and fresh, and the execution is authentic to the characters' world, though it's a one-note joke.


Character Development

Characters: 6.5

Jack and Elisa are consistent with their established dynamic—Jack is overeager, Elisa is practical but touched—but Mr. Templeton is used purely as a prop, and no character gains new depth.

Character Changes: 2

No significant character change occurs; Jack's gesture reinforces his commitment, but neither character evolves.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 3

Conflict is minimal—only a hint of discomfort from Jack's overreach, but it's quickly resolved by Elisa's enthusiasm.

Opposition: 2

Opposition is minimal—Elisa's initial hesitation is quickly overcome, and there's no real obstacle to their enjoyment.

High Stakes: 3

Stakes are low—the main risk is social awkwardness, which is played for laughs rather than tension.

Story Forward: 5

The scene moves the Jack-Elisa romance forward by showing a successful date, but it's a small step in a larger subplot.

Unpredictability: 7

The scene is unpredictable because the audience doesn't expect Mr. Templeton to be present, and the reveal is a comedic surprise.

Philosophical Conflict: 4


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 5.5

The scene is sweet and funny, but the emotional impact is muted by the brevity and the absurdity of the situation.

Dialogue: 6.5

The dialogue is efficient and in-character, with Elisa's enraptured line about the 'Broadway roller skating spectacular' being a highlight, but there's little back-and-forth to showcase wit.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because the absurd premise of a catatonic patient as a third wheel is inherently funny, and the audience is invested in Jack and Elisa's relationship.

Pacing: 8

The pacing is brisk, with a quick setup and payoff, which suits the comedic tone. The scene doesn't overstay its welcome.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

Formatting is clean and standard, with clear action lines and dialogue. The use of 'ANGLE ON' is a typical screenplay direction.

Structure: 7

The scene is a classic setup-payoff: Jack's plan is revealed, Elisa's reaction is the payoff, and the visual gag of Mr. Templeton lands the joke. It's a short, efficient scene for a comedy.


Critique
  • The scene is very brief and serves primarily as a visual payoff for Jack's romantic gesture. However, it lacks emotional depth and feels rushed. Jack's line about 'pushing it' is redundant given earlier discussions, and the scene could benefit from a more specific or surprising interaction.
  • The reliance on the visual of Elisa's excitement and Jack's heaven is effective but static. The inclusion of Mr. Templeton's blank stare provides a comedic contrast, but the scene misses an opportunity to explore the awkwardness or irony of their situation—such as Mr. Templeton becoming unexpectedly engaged or a moment of self-awareness from Jack.
  • The excitement around 'Xanadu' is well-set from the previous scene, but this scene doesn't deliver on the spectacle. A brief glimpse of the show or a reaction line from Elisa about the performance could enhance the sense of payoff.
  • The cut to Mr. Templeton at the end is a classic 30 Rock beat, but it feels somewhat predictable. Adding a subtle sound or movement from him (e.g., a slight twitch or whispered comment) could elevate the comedic timing.
Suggestions
  • Expand the scene by one or two lines of dialogue: have Elisa react to a specific moment in the show (e.g., 'Look, they're doing a triple lutz!') to ground the audience in the absurdity of the performance.
  • Include a brief exchange where Jack, initially proud of his plan, has a moment of doubt as Mr. Templeton remains catatonic, but Elisa's genuine joy reassures him. This would add character development beyond the surface.
  • Have Mr. Templeton suddenly murmur something relevant (e.g., 'I remember... roller skates...') which startles Jack and Elisa but then he returns to blankness, adding a layer of mystery and humor.
  • Consider cutting the first line of Jack's dialogue ('I know we’re pushing it here...') and starting with Elisa shushing him, as the sentiment is already established. This would make the scene more dynamic and trust the audience to understand the situation.
  • End the scene with a close-up on Jack's face shifting from heaven to a slight frown as he realizes the absurdity, then cut to Mr. Templeton—this would add nuance to Jack's character.



Scene 12 -  The Unclean Escape
INT. WRITERS’ ROOM/LIZ’S OFFICE - LATER
Liz enters. The sick writers cheer for her.
FRANK
Liz, way to stand up to the “Man”
and his elitist shots.
LIZ
Hey I’m no better than you, Frank.
Sure I work harder, I bathe
regularly, and I didn’t put vodka
in Sue’s orange juice even though
we all know she’s an alcoholic.
FRANK
She deserved it. Not drinking is
so gay.
Liz enters her office. Cerie follows her in.
LIZ
I feel good, Cerie, standing up for
my principles. Worst comes to
worst I get sick, but who cares,
right? My vacation’s off anyway.
CERIE
Totally.
(then, re: message slip)
So a resort called. They had lots
of cancellations because of the flu
and your reservation is back on.
Also, Brian’s going to kill himself
if you don’t return his texts. He
bought a gun. Wait, that’s for me.
Cerie exits. Liz is lost in dreamy vacation thought.
FLASHBACK TO:

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 16.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
EXT. BAHAMAS RESORT - LAST YEAR
Same blissful setting and music. Liz lounges finishing a
soft ice cream. She licks drippings from her arm as she’s
handed another from off screen. She winks flirtatiously.
LIZ
Thank you, Banyani.
CUT BACK TO:
INT. LIZ’S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Liz smiles still far away. Lutz enters. He starts to say
something, emits a horrifying cough, tries to speak again,
sneezes disgustingly then has a wheezing coughing fit.
LIZ
Ah! Unclean! Get away from me!
She covers her mouth and runs out, kicking the door open.
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Liz returns to the writers' room to cheers for confronting Jack, but her mood sours when Cerie delivers mixed news: her Bahamas vacation is back on, but a suicide note from Brian is a misunderstanding. The scene ends in disgust as a sick Lutz triggers a violent coughing fit, causing Liz to scream 'Unclean!' and flee her office.
Strengths
  • Efficient reversal of Liz's situation
  • Strong comic irony in vacation news timing
  • Physical comedy with Lutz's coughing fit
Weaknesses
  • Lack of dramatic tension or character depth
  • Reactive rather than proactive protagonist
  • Frank's line feels dated

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to advance Liz's moral stand against the two-tiered flu shot system while comically undercutting her principles with her own self-interest. It lands the humor and character beat well, but the flashback to her vacation feels slightly disconnected from the immediate conflict, and the scene's brevity limits its impact. A stronger tie between her vacation fantasy and her current moral stance would elevate it.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of a workplace flu shot rebellion is fresh and ripe for satire, and the twist of Liz's vacation being reinstated adds ironic depth. However, the execution is somewhat predictable in its comedic beats.

Plot: 6.5

The plot moves Liz from her moral high ground to a moment of personal temptation (the vacation), creating a clear internal conflict. The scene is a small but effective step in the larger arc of her standing up to Jack.

Originality: 7

The scene offers a fresh take on the 'moral stand' trope by undercutting it with personal hypocrisy, and the flashback to the vacation is a clever way to show Liz's internal conflict.


Character Development

Characters: 6.5

Liz is consistent in her self-righteousness and hypocrisy, and the scene reinforces her core traits. Frank and Cerie provide typical supporting humor, but the scene doesn't deepen any character beyond Liz.

Character Changes: 3

Liz doesn't fundamentally change, but her resolve is tested when she learns her vacation is back on, creating a potential shift in her commitment to her principles.

Internal Goal: 7

External Goal: 6


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 5

The conflict is internal (Liz's principles vs. her desire for vacation) and external (her stand against Jack's rationing). The scene sets up a clear opposition but doesn't escalate it dramatically.

Opposition: 4

The opposition is primarily internal (Liz's own desires) and external (Jack's system), but the scene doesn't present a strong antagonist; Lutz is more of a nuisance than a true opponent.

High Stakes: 5

The stakes are moderate: Liz's moral integrity vs. her personal comfort, and the health of the staff. The scene doesn't raise the stakes significantly.

Story Forward: 6

The scene advances the flu shot subplot by showing Liz's public stand and her private temptation, setting up potential consequences for her hypocrisy.

Unpredictability: 6.5

This scene is unpredictable because it subverts the expected outcome of Liz's moral stand by immediately reintroducing her vacation, creating a comedic twist that challenges her principles.

Philosophical Conflict: 7


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 4

The scene is more comedic than emotional, but there's a subtle emotional beat in Liz's moment of dreamy vacation longing, which is quickly undercut by Lutz's grossness.

Dialogue: 7

The dialogue is sharp and funny, with classic 30 Rock quips (e.g., 'Not drinking is so gay' and 'Unclean!'). However, some lines feel like they're trying too hard to be zany, and the scene lacks a truly memorable exchange.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because it combines witty dialogue with a relatable moral dilemma, and the flashback to Liz's vacation adds a layer of irony that keeps the viewer invested in her character.

Pacing: 7

The pacing of the scene is brisk, moving from Liz's triumphant speech to her private moment of temptation and then to the gross-out gag with Lutz, maintaining a steady comedic rhythm.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard screenplay format, with clear scene headings and action lines. The flashback is properly indicated, and the dialogue is clean.

Structure: 6.5

The scene follows a classic sitcom structure: setup (Liz's triumph), complication (vacation reinstated), and a comedic button (Lutz's grossness). It's efficient but lacks a strong turning point.


Critique
  • The scene undercuts Liz's principled stand from the previous scene by immediately reintroducing her selfish vacation desire without any internal conflict or reflection. The flashback to the Bahamas feels repetitive, as it was already shown earlier, and does not add new information or emotional weight.
  • Liz's sarcastic speech to Frank is tonally inconsistent: she is supposed to have just made a heroic declaration, yet she immediately undercuts it with petty insults. This makes her seem less sympathetic and undercuts the moral high ground she just claimed.
  • The interaction with Cerie is flat. Cerie's delivery of the vacation news lacks any reaction from Liz—she simply falls into a dreamy state. There is no moment where Liz grapples with the hypocrisy of accepting the vacation after refusing the shot for egalitarian reasons.
  • The abrupt shift from Liz's pleasant daydream to Lutz's violent coughing fit is jarring, but the humor of 'Unclean!' feels cheap and undermines the seriousness of the flu outbreak. It also makes Liz look callous and selfish, which contrasts poorly with her earlier 'champion of the people' persona.
  • The scene's pacing feels rushed. Liz's emotional journey from triumphant hero to panicked hypocrite happens in seconds without any beat for the audience to process. The lack of a transition weakens the comedic and dramatic impact.
Suggestions
  • Show Liz's internal conflict when Cerie tells her the vacation is back on. Have her visibly struggle between her principles and her desire, maybe by hesitating, muttering a conflicted line, or looking at the cheering writers guiltily before the daydream.
  • Instead of repeating the same Bahamas flashback, create a new, more specific memory that ties directly to her temptation—for example, a shot of Banyani's smile or a detail that makes the vacation feel more real and seductive.
  • After the flashback, have a brief moment where Liz acknowledges her hypocrisy to herself, like a wry smile or a whispered 'Oh, God,' before Lutz enters. This would add depth and foreshadow her later actions.
  • Change Lutz's entrance so that it tests Liz's new resolve. She could try to help him (putting her principles into action) but then fail because of fear, leading to a more nuanced comedic beat—like she hands him a tissue from six feet away, then runs.
  • Trim or rewrite the speech to Frank. Instead of snarky insults, have Liz give a more genuinely humble or awkward response that shows she's both riding the wave of adulation and already feeling the weight of her decision. This would maintain her likability.



Scene 13 -  Salad of Doom
INT. HALLWAY - MOMENTS LATER
We follow Liz through a stylized homage to “28 Days Later”.
She moves fearfully past SICK PEOPLE huddled and coughing.
Kenneth comes at her holding a salad. He looks terrifying:
sweating, weird pallor, hair askew, slight trickle of blood
from his nose.
KENNETH
(eerie)
Ms. Lemon I got your salad.
He sneezes on it. Liz starts to run. Sick people
everywhere. She grabs a prop gun to avoid touching them.
Liz sees healthy guys in the sound booth and runs to them but
they lock her out. She pounds on the door.
LIZ
No! Please! I’m not one of them!
CUT TO:

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 17.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
Genres:

Summary Liz flees through a '28 Days Later'-style hallway filled with coughing sick people. Kenneth, looking infected and creepy, approaches with her salad, sneezes on it, and Liz runs. Grabbing a prop gun, she seeks refuge with healthy men in a sound booth, but they lock her out, leaving her pounding and pleading.
Strengths
  • Strong genre homage concept
  • Effective visual escalation of stakes
  • Great character inversion for Kenneth
  • Clear external goal and obstacle
  • Frantic, propulsive pacing
Weaknesses
  • No character change or internal conflict
  • Plot is pure escalation without new elements
  • Philosophical conflict absent

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to comically escalate the flu outbreak into a zombie-apocalypse parody while reinforcing Liz's principled stance, and it lands with sharp visual gags and a strong satirical edge. The biggest limiter is that the scene is a brief transitional beat—it doesn't advance the plot or character arcs significantly, so it feels more like a punchline than a turning point.


Story Content

Concept: 7.5

The concept of turning a flu outbreak into a 28 Days Later homage is fresh and funny, effectively blending horror and comedy. The weakness is that it's a one-note joke that doesn't deepen the scene's stakes or themes beyond the initial gag.

Plot: 6

The scene advances the subplot of Liz's refusal to get a flu shot by showing the consequences (the outbreak worsening) and her desperate flight. However, it's a minor plot beat that doesn't introduce new information or change the direction of the story.

Originality: 7

The scene is original in its mashup of horror and comedy, but the actions and dialogue are typical of 30 Rock's style, so it's fresh but not groundbreaking.


Character Development

Characters: 6.5

Liz's character is consistent—principled but panicked—and Kenneth's sickly state adds a darkly comic twist. The weakness is that no character undergoes meaningful change or reveals new depth here.

Character Changes: 2

Liz's resolve to avoid the sick is reinforced, but she doesn't change or grow; she's the same character at the end as at the start.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 6

The conflict is external—Liz vs. the sick environment—and internal (her fear of contamination). It's clear but not deeply developed.

Opposition: 5

The opposition is the environment itself—the sick people and the locked door—which is a passive but effective obstacle.

High Stakes: 4

The stakes are personal (Liz's health) but not high in the broader narrative; the scene is more comedic than dramatic.

Story Forward: 4

The scene shows the flu outbreak escalating, which could lead to future complications, but it doesn't resolve or advance any ongoing plot threads.

Unpredictability: 7

The scene is unpredictable because the 28 Days Later homage is unexpected in a sitcom, and Kenneth's sickly appearance is a twist on his usual chipper self.

Philosophical Conflict: 5


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 5

The scene evokes mild anxiety and amusement, but the emotional stakes are low and the humor undercuts any real tension.

Dialogue: 7

The dialogue is sharp and funny, especially Kenneth's eerie delivery and Liz's desperate plea. The weakness is that the dialogue is minimal and serves the visual gag more than character interaction.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because it combines a familiar horror trope with comedic timing, creating a visually funny and slightly tense moment that keeps the reader amused.

Pacing: 8

The pacing is brisk, moving from Kenneth's appearance to Liz's flight in a few quick beats, which suits the comedic urgency.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is clean and professional, with clear action lines and a visual homage that's easy to follow. The 'CUT TO' is standard.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic chase structure: setup (Kenneth appears), escalation (Liz runs), and a cliffhanger (locked out). It's effective for a comedy sketch but lacks a clear resolution.


Critique
  • The homage to '28 Days Later' is a fun stylistic choice, but it feels a bit out of place in a comedic scene. The shift to horror aesthetics might clash with the show's usual tone, and the visual cues (blood from nose, eerie delivery) risk being too subtle for comedy or too overt for parody. The scare humor relies heavily on Kenneth's appearance, but his line 'Ms. Lemon I got your salad' is underplayed—the comedic potential of a sick Kenneth serving a salad is not fully exploited.
  • Liz grabbing a 'prop gun' to avoid touching people is confusing. In a comedy, a prop gun could be a great sight gag (e.g., a rubber chicken or a nerf gun), but here it's just mentioned generically. The reasoning behind it (to avoid touching) is weak and not visually clear. The scene needs a clearer cause-and-effect or a funnier motivation.
  • The sound booth sequence (healthy men locking her out) is a beat that works for horror but lacks comedic payoff. Liz's line 'I'm not one of them!' is a standard zombie trope; in 30 Rock, it should be twisted with specific character humor—perhaps a callback to her earlier moral stand or a witty jab at the sound guys.
  • The transition from the previous scene (Liz screaming 'Unclean!' and running out) to this hallway scene is abrupt but okay. However, the pacing could be improved by adding a brief moment of Liz's internal thoughts or a visual joke about the 'stylized homage' (e.g., a fake low-budget production sign).
  • Kenneth's symptoms (sweating, pallor, blood from nose) are visually strong, but the scene could benefit from a more absurd detail—like his salad being covered in a bizarre dressing or the sneeze causing a chain reaction of comedy (e.g., hitting a prop that triggers something).
Suggestions
  • Lean into the absurdity: Have Kenneth deliver his line with exaggerated horror-movie slowness, but then break character by saying something mundane like 'It's from the cafeteria—only $4.99 today.' The sneeze could be a comically long and messy sneeze that ruins the salad completely.
  • Replace the generic 'prop gun' with a specific ridiculous prop from the TGS set—like a giant foam finger or a fake Oscar statue. Liz could wield it as if it were a weapon, and the visual incongruity would heighten the comedy.
  • Expand the sound booth beat: The healthy guys could be doing something trivial (e.g., playing Solitaire on a computer) while ignoring her. Liz could pound on the glass and make a desperate plea that references her earlier stance—e.g., 'I swear I didn't get the shot! I'm a regular Joe!' and then one of them holds up a sign saying 'Nice try, Lemon.'
  • Add a brief moment of Liz trying to use the prop gun as a bargaining tool—like offering it to a sick person who then sneezes on it—before she runs to the booth. This would create a mini-comedic set piece.
  • After the cut, consider a transition shot of Liz's face pressed against the glass of the sound booth, her makeup smearing, as a sick person behind her groans. End on a freeze-frame or a sound effect to punctuate the horror-comedy mashup.



Scene 14 -  The Flu Shot Ultimatum
INT. GREEN ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Dr. Spaceman is there with his flu shot gear. Liz bursts in.
LIZ
Give me a shot.
DR. SPACEMAN
That would be wise medically. But
as your doctor I must remind you
you’d be compromising a dramatic
ethical stand you took with Jack --
LIZ
Now!!!
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 18.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
Genres:

Summary Liz Lemon bursts into the green room demanding a flu shot from Dr. Spaceman, who warns it would undermine her ethical stand against Jack. Despite the conflict, Liz overrides his objection with a forceful 'Now!!!' as the scene fades out.
Strengths
  • Clear external goal
  • Strong character voice for Dr. Spaceman
  • Efficient act break reversal
Weaknesses
  • Too brief to land fully
  • No new complication or escalation
  • Lack of internal conflict

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 7.2

The scene's primary job is to pay off Liz's ethical stand with a comedic reversal, and it lands the joke with a sharp, ironic punch. The biggest limiter is the brevity—it's a quick beat that could use a touch more texture to fully resonate, but it's effective as a scene transition.


Story Content

Concept: 8

The concept of Liz's principled stand immediately collapsing into a desperate plea for the shot is a fresh, satirical take on hypocrisy and self-preservation. It's a strong comedic concept that fits the show's tone.

Plot: 7

This scene advances the plot by resolving Liz's refusal in a comedic way, setting up her potential infection and the fallout. It's a turning point that shifts the story from moral posturing to personal stakes.

Originality: 8

The scene is original in its satirical take on moral hypocrisy, using a comedic reversal that feels fresh for the character and the show's style.


Character Development

Characters: 7.5

Liz's character is highlighted through her rapid reversal, showing her as principled but also humanly fallible. Dr. Spaceman's deadpan commentary reinforces his quirky persona. The scene doesn't develop other characters but serves Liz's arc.

Character Changes: 5

Liz changes from a defiant moralist to a panicked pragmatist, but this is a temporary shift for comedic effect rather than a lasting character development.

Internal Goal: 7

External Goal: 8


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 6

The conflict is internal for Liz (her principles vs. her fear) and external with Dr. Spaceman's logical pushback. It's a quick but effective clash.

Opposition: 5

The opposition is Dr. Spaceman's logical reminder, which serves as a foil to Liz's panic, but it's not a strong antagonist force.

High Stakes: 6

The stakes are personal (Liz's health) and thematic (her integrity), but they're played for comedy, so the tension is moderate.

Story Forward: 7

The scene moves the story forward by ending Liz's stand and setting up her potential infection, which will likely drive the next act's conflict.

Unpredictability: 8

This scene is unpredictable because the audience expects Liz to stick to her principles, but she immediately caves, creating a comedic twist.

Philosophical Conflict: 7


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 6

The emotional impact is comedic, with a mix of desperation and irony. It's not deeply moving but elicits a chuckle at Liz's expense.

Dialogue: 8

The dialogue is sharp and efficient, with Dr. Spaceman's logical yet absurd lines contrasting Liz's panic. The exchange is witty and moves quickly, though it's brief.

Engagement: 8

This scene is engaging because it subverts expectations—Liz's sudden reversal is both funny and relatable, and the rapid-fire dialogue keeps the pace brisk.

Pacing: 8

The pacing is fast, with no wasted words. The quick exchange between Liz and Dr. Spaceman builds to the punchline efficiently.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 9

The formatting is clean and standard for a screenplay, with clear action lines and dialogue. The use of 'FADE OUT' and 'END OF ACT ONE' is appropriate for a TV script.

Structure: 8

The scene is a classic comedic beat: setup (Liz's stand), complication (Dr. Spaceman's reminder), and punchline (Liz's desperate 'Now!'). It's tight and effective.


Critique
  • The scene is extremely brief—only four lines of dialogue—which undercuts the dramatic potential of Liz's reversal. After building tension through a horror-movie homage (Scene 13), this payoff feels rushed and anticlimactic.
  • Liz's decision to abandon her ethical stand lacks internal conflict. There is no moment of hesitation, no visible struggle, and no acknowledgment of the hypocrisy. This weakens her character arc and makes her seem fickle rather than desperate or conflicted.
  • Dr. Spaceman's line about 'compromising a dramatic ethical stand' is meta and self-aware, which fits the show's tone, but it comes across as a joke that deflates the seriousness of Liz's choice. The scene should balance comedy with genuine stakes.
  • The transition from Liz's panicked plea 'I'm not one of them' in the previous scene to her immediate demand 'Give me a shot' is too jarring. A beat of recognition or shame would help sell her reversal.
  • The fade out marking the end of Act One is abrupt. Typically, an act break should leave the audience with a stronger emotional hook or a cliffhanger that makes them eager for Act Two. Here, the resolution feels too quick and easy.
Suggestions
  • Extend the scene by adding a few more lines of dialogue where Liz visibly wrestles with her decision. For example, she could start to justify herself, stutter, or recall the faces of the sick crew members before finally demanding the shot.
  • Include a physical beat—like Liz hesitating at the door, looking back into the hallway at the suffering, then turning to Dr. Spaceman with a mixture of guilt and resolve.
  • Have Dr. Spaceman deliver his reminder more neutrally (without the meta joke), allowing Liz's internal conflict to carry the humor. For instance, he could simply say, 'Remember, this means you're accepting Jack's system.' Then let Liz's reaction speak for itself.
  • Insert a short callback to Liz's earlier vow ('Shots for everyone or no one') by having her repeat it weakly under her breath before she contradicts herself. This would highlight the irony and deepen the character moment.
  • End the scene not with a fade out but with a close-up on Liz's face as she receives the shot—showing a mix of relief, shame, and determination—then cut to black. This gives the act break more emotional weight.



Scene 15 -  The Shot and the Secret
INT. GREEN ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Liz rolls up her sleeve, preparing to get a shot.
DR. SPACEMAN
You’re lucky. As karma would have
it we ended up with one extra shot.
Sadly, Mr. Garkle had a seizure and
I just sent him to the morgue.
LIZ
He died?
DR. SPACEMAN
(oops)
I should check on that.
LIZ
Listen, you have to promise not to
tell anyone I’m getting this.
DR. SPACEMAN
Liz, I believe doctor-patient
confidentiality is a two-way
street.
(then)
I’m cheating on my wife.
(nervously holds syringe)
Okay. Let’s do this.
TIGHT ON Liz lost in Bahamian fantasy. We hear island music
play as she smiles. Suddenly she winces.
LIZ
That’s my face.
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Liz gets a shot from Dr. Spaceman, who casually reveals a patient's death and then confesses to cheating on his wife, establishing mutual confidentiality. Liz imagines a pleasant fantasy but winces as the needle goes in.
Strengths
  • Efficient comic irony
  • Dr. Spaceman's voice is on point
  • Clear story progression
Weaknesses
  • Lack of internal conflict
  • Familiar sitcom beat
  • No philosophical depth

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

This scene's primary job is to deliver a comedic payoff to Liz's earlier ethical stand by having her immediately abandon it for self-preservation, which it does with sharp timing and absurdist humor. The single biggest limiter is that the scene feels very brief and somewhat rushed, lacking a deeper beat or reaction that would make the reversal land with more weight.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of Liz hypocritically getting the shot after her grandstand is a strong comedic reversal, and Dr. Spaceman's darkly funny lines about the morgue and his infidelity add a unique, twisted layer. However, the concept is a simple punchline without much development or surprise beyond the initial reversal.

Plot: 5.5

The plot advances Liz's personal arc from principled stance to self-interested capitulation, but the scene is a single beat with no further complication or consequence. It resolves the shot dilemma quickly, but doesn't introduce new obstacles or deepen the ongoing conflict with Jack.

Originality: 7

The scene is original in its specific combination of dark medical humor (morgue, infidelity) with a sitcom character's hypocritical reversal. The 'That's my face' line is a fresh take on the shot-in-the-arm gag.


Character Development

Characters: 6.5

Liz's hypocrisy is on full display, consistent with her character's tendency to compromise her ideals under pressure. Dr. Spaceman's bizarre, unprofessional demeanor is well-maintained. However, the scene doesn't reveal new dimensions or challenge their established traits.

Character Changes: 2

Liz changes from principled resister to hypocritical shot-taker, but this is a temporary reversal for a gag, not a lasting character change. No one else changes.

Internal Goal: 5

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 3

The conflict is internal (Liz vs. her own stated principles) and mild, resolved almost instantly. There is no external opposition in the scene itself.

Opposition: 2

The opposition is minimal—Dr. Spaceman is willing to give the shot, and Liz's only opposition is her own earlier promise. There is no active antagonist in the scene.

High Stakes: 3

The stakes are low—Liz's health vs. her pride. The scene doesn't raise the stakes for the overall story.

Story Forward: 4

The scene moves the story forward minimally—it resolves the immediate shot dilemma but doesn't advance the larger arcs (Jack/Elisa, the flu outbreak, Liz's vacation).

Unpredictability: 7

This scene is unpredictable because the audience expects Liz to either stick to her guns or have a more dramatic confrontation, but instead she simply caves with a wince and a line about her face.

Philosophical Conflict: 5


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 3

The emotional impact is low—the scene aims for comedy, not pathos. Liz's wince at the shot is the only moment of genuine feeling, and it's played for a laugh.

Dialogue: 7

The dialogue is snappy and funny, with Dr. Spaceman's non-sequiturs ('I'm cheating on my wife') landing well. Liz's line 'That's my face' is a classic callback. The weakness is that the exchange is very short and feels like a quick setup for the punchline rather than a full conversation.

Engagement: 6

This scene is engaging because of the quick, funny dialogue and the satisfying payoff of Liz's hypocrisy, but it's over before it builds much momentum.

Pacing: 7

The pacing of the scene contributes to its effectiveness because it's brisk and gets to the punchline quickly, but it may feel too rushed for some viewers, lacking a moment to breathe.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard and clear, with proper scene headings, character cues, and action lines. The use of 'TIGHT ON' and 'CUT TO' is appropriate for the medium.

Structure: 6

The structure is a classic comedic beat: setup (Liz's stand), reversal (she caves), and punchline (the shot in the face). It's efficient but lacks a middle beat or escalation.


Critique
  • The scene is extremely brief and feels rushed. It lacks any emotional or comedic buildup after Liz's desperate demand in the previous scene. The transition from her yelling 'Now!!!' to calmly rolling up her sleeve undermines the urgency and humor of the moment.
  • The Mr. Garkle death reveal is darkly funny but delivered too flatly. Dr. Spaceman's reaction ('oops, I should check on that') is a weak punchline that dismisses a potentially shocking moment. The scene misses an opportunity for a stronger comedic beat—like a horrified reaction from Liz or a callback to Mr. Garkle earlier in the script.
  • Dr. Spaceman's confession of cheating on his wife feels forced and disconnected from the flu shot plot. The 'two-way street' joke is clever in theory, but the confessional undermines Dr. Spaceman's character (already established as ethically dubious) without adding new humor or advancing any story. It feels like a throwaway gag that doesn't pay off.
  • Liz's internal conflict about abandoning her moral stand is completely absent. She went from storming out to demanding a shot off-screen, and here she shows no hesitation or guilt. A moment of ironic self-awareness or a reluctant sigh would make her decision more impactful and consistent with her character.
  • The Bahamian fantasy flash is too brief and vague. We only hear island music and see her smile before the wince. Considering Liz's elaborate daydreams earlier (soft ice cream, waiter Banyani), this vision lacks specificity and humor. The line 'That’s my face' is a callback to Scene 6, but without context it may confuse viewers who don't remember that earlier joke about wanting the shot 'in her face'.
  • The visual direction is sparse. The stage direction 'TIGHT ON Liz' followed by a quick cut doesn't build anticipation for the shot itself. A few frames showing Dr. Spaceman's trembling hand or Liz's grimace could heighten the physical comedy of the injection.
Suggestions
  • Extend the scene by 10-15 seconds to let Liz's internal conflict play out. For example, she could roll up her sleeve, pause to look at her reflection in a mirror, and mutter something like 'Whitehaven would be so disappointed' before grimacing and offering her arm.
  • Give Dr. Spaceman a more relevant or absurd confession that ties to Liz's situation. Instead of cheating on his wife, he could reveal he accidentally used the wrong needle, or that the shot is expired but 'expiration is a myth, like the tooth fairy.' This would maintain the comedic chaos without introducing a random subplot.
  • Make the Mr. Garkle death a bigger beat. Have Liz react with genuine concern, then Dr. Spaceman shrugs and says 'Relax, it's a 30 Rock. He'll be back next season.' This self-referential humor would fit the show's tone and land better than a quick 'oops'.
  • Add a physical comedy moment: Dr. Spaceman fumbles with the syringe, drops it, picks it up, and then wipes it on his lab coat before saying 'Let's do this.' This would reinforce his incompetence and heighten Liz's anxiety.
  • Enhance the Bahamian fantasy with a quick visual callback: show a single frame of Liz in the tankoort on the beach, holding a dripping ice cream, then cut back to her real face contorted in pain. The contrast would make the wince funnier and tie into her vacation obsession.
  • End the scene with a final joke. After Liz says 'That’s my face,' Dr. Spaceman could deadpan: 'The face is fine. But now you'll have a bullseye on your arm... well, on your face. That might be worse.' This would set up the later scene where the bruise is discovered (Scene 20/25) and create more continuity.



Scene 16 -  The Flu Shot Fakeout
INT. STUDIO - MOMENTS LATER
A secretly inoculated Liz walks happily while rubbing her
sore face. She is lost in song.
LIZ
CARRIBEAN QUEEN/NOW WE’RE SHARING
THE SAME DREAM --
(MORE)

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 19.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
LIZ (CONT'D)
(bumps into Lutz)
Balls, Lutz!
She notices that Lutz is woozy and about to faint.
LIZ (CONT’D)
Whoa, buddy, you need to sit down.
She grabs him a chair and water as he coughs horribly.
PETE
Careful, Liz. You don’t want to
get his flu and ruin your vacation.
LIZ
Oh, um, I’m not worried about that.
Crew guys overhear her. They’re impressed.
CREW GUY #1
How ‘bout that Liz Lemon? First
she refuses to get a shot...!
CREW GUY #2
Now she risks her health to help
Lutz, the most common of all the
writers!
AFRICAN AMERICAN CREW GUY
I heard he bit a thermometer as a
child!
LIZ
Hold on. I don’t want you to get
the wrong idea. The truth is...
(off their innocent looks)
What wouldn’t I do for my guys?!
The crew cheers Liz. Playing to the crowd she wipes Lutz’s
forehead with a cloth. Lutz coughs hard in her face.
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Liz Lemon, while singing and rubbing her sore face, accidentally encounters a woozy Lutz who is about to faint. She helps him sit down and fetches water, despite Pete's warning about catching the flu. Crew members overhear and mistakenly praise Liz for refusing a flu shot to help Lutz. Rather than correct them, Liz plays along as a hero, only to have Lutz cough directly in her face, ending the scene comically.
Strengths
  • Clear comic irony
  • Efficient character work for Liz
  • Strong physical payoff (cough in face)
Weaknesses
  • Predictable beat
  • Low stakes
  • No fresh twist

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.8

The scene's primary job is to advance Liz's arc of hypocrisy and the flu-shot subplot, which it does with sharp comedic irony and strong character beats. However, the scene's reliance on broad physical comedy (Lutz's coughing) and the somewhat predictable 'secret inoculation' twist slightly undercut the potential for deeper satire, keeping it from a higher score.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of Liz secretly getting the shot while publicly maintaining her moral stance is a strong comedic premise, but it's a familiar sitcom trope. The execution is solid but not groundbreaking.

Plot: 6.5

The plot advances the flu-shot storyline and Liz's character arc, but the scene is more of a transitional beat than a major plot turn. The cause-and-effect is clear, but the stakes are moderate.

Originality: 6

The scene is original in its specific details (the 'Caribbean Queen' song, the crew's absurd praise) but follows a familiar sitcom pattern of a character's hypocrisy being exposed.


Character Development

Characters: 7

Liz's hypocrisy is well-drawn, and the crew's admiration adds to the irony. Lutz is used for physical comedy, but his character is one-dimensional here. The scene reinforces existing traits rather than revealing new depths.

Character Changes: 3

Liz doesn't fundamentally change; she reinforces her pattern of compromising her principles for personal gain. The change is more situational than character-driven.

Internal Goal: 7

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 5

The conflict is internal (Liz's guilt vs. her desire for a vacation) and external (the crew's admiration vs. her secret). It's present but not high-stakes.

Opposition: 4

The opposition is mostly internal (Liz's guilt) and social (the crew's expectations). There's no strong antagonist in this scene, but the situation itself creates opposition.

High Stakes: 4

The stakes are low—Liz's vacation and her reputation among the crew are at risk, but the consequences are not severe.

Story Forward: 6

The scene moves the flu-shot subplot forward and sets up potential consequences for Liz's lie, but it's a minor step in the overall narrative.

Unpredictability: 5

This scene is somewhat predictable—the secret inoculation is a common trope—but the specific details (Lutz's coughing, the crew's exaggerated praise) add unexpected comedic moments.

Philosophical Conflict: 6


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 5

The emotional impact is moderate—there's a sense of irony and mild sympathy for Liz, but the scene is more comedic than emotionally resonant.

Dialogue: 7

The dialogue is sharp and funny, with Liz's internal conflict and the crew's over-the-top praise providing good laughs. However, some lines (e.g., 'Balls, Lutz!') feel like filler, and the scene relies on obvious comedic beats.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because of the dramatic irony—we know Liz's secret, and watching her squirm while being praised is entertaining. The physical comedy with Lutz adds to the engagement.

Pacing: 7

The pacing is brisk, with quick cuts between Liz's internal thoughts and external actions. The scene moves efficiently, but the ending feels slightly rushed.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard for a screenplay, with clear action lines and dialogue. The use of parentheticals and sound effects is minimal but appropriate.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic sitcom structure: setup (Liz's secret), complication (Lutz's illness and crew's praise), and a punchline (Liz's over-the-top performance). It's effective but formulaic.


Critique
  • The scene feels rushed; the transition from Liz's cheerful song to bumping into Lutz is abrupt and lacks a beat for the audience to register her secret inoculation before the conflict arises.
  • The crew guys' dialogue is overly expository—it spells out Liz's supposed heroism rather than letting the audience infer it from her actions. This feels unnatural and heavy-handed.
  • Liz's lie about not getting the shot is predictable and happens too quickly. There's no internal struggle shown; she immediately goes along with the misconception, which undercuts the moral complexity the episode has been building.
  • The physical comedy of Lutz coughing in Liz's face is effective but could be heightened. The scene ends abruptly without a strong reaction from Liz—a beat of horror or a slow realization would amplify the irony.
  • The tone is consistent with '30 Rock' but the scene lacks a strong visual or comedic punchline. The cough feels like a placeholder gag rather than a well-crafted payoff.
Suggestions
  • Add a brief moment of hesitation or a disgusted glance after Liz bumps into Lutz before she decides to help him. This would show her internal conflict between her secret immunity and her public persona.
  • Rewrite the crew guys' lines to be more natural—maybe they overhear Liz’s song and comment on her bravery indirectly, or Liz herself initiates the heroism by making a quick decision in front of them.
  • Extend the lie sequence: have Liz start to tell the truth ('I didn't refuse the shot...') but then, seeing the crew's admiration, she trails off and changes her mind. This adds tension and a clear comedic beat.
  • After Lutz coughs in her face, hold on a close-up of Liz’s expression for an extra beat—a slow dawning horror—then cut to black or the next scene. This would heighten the irony and set up her later panic about hiding the bruise.
  • Consider adding a visual callback to the earlier '28 Days Later' homage, like Liz instinctively wiping her face or looking at her hand, to connect the scene to the episode's larger theme of infection and hypocrisy.



Scene 17 -  The Compatibility Test
INT. TRACY’S DRESSING ROOM - LATER
Tracy is there. Jenna enters.
JENNA
Dotcom said you wanted to see me.
Tracy motions for her to sit. She does. After a long beat.

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 20.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
TRACY
Jenna, why don’t you like me?
JENNA
What? Tracy, that’s not true.
TRACY
It is. And it hurts. I’m loved by
everyone, except Jimmy Carter. But
that dude has no sense of humor. I
mean, it’s 2009 and we still can’t
make Menachem Begin jokes.
JENNA
You really want to do this?
TRACY
Yes. We’re going to sit here and
work it out. No finger pointing,
no judgement. Now I can take it so
be honest... What is it about me
that makes you such a bitch?
JENNA
Okay, you’re being insulting.
TRACY
That’s racist. Not what you said,
I was just thinking about how all
Chinese people are good at math.
JENNA
This is pointless. We’re the two
least compatible people on earth.
TRACY
Lightbulb! Let’s try a
hypothetical exercise. What if the
flu killed everyone and we were the
last two people? Could we make it
work?
JENNA
Wow. I don’t know.
TRACY
Come on, humans are extinct. We’re
a couple with kids we got from, to
offer a notional point of
reference, doing it like animals.

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 21.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JENNA
Okay. If we had kids I suppose I’d
want to raise them Catholic.
TRACY
I’d want to raise them ninja.
JENNA
I’d want to move into Barney’s.
TRACY
I’d want to live in the Joker’s
lair.
JENNA
It’d be nice to spend Thanksgiving
at the empty Kennedy Compound.
TRACY
We’re always going to the Kennedy
Compound for Thanksgiving! This
isn’t working!
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Tracy confronts Jenna in her dressing room about why she doesn't like him. After a hypocritical 'no-judgment' discussion that includes insults and a racist remark, Tracy proposes a hypothetical: if they were the last two humans, could they make it work? Their negotiations about raising kids (Catholic vs. ninja) and where to live (Barney's vs. Joker's lair) reveal deep incompatibility, leading Tracy to declare the exercise a failure.
Strengths
  • Sharp, character-specific dialogue
  • Absurd hypothetical with funny details
  • Clear character voices
  • Good escalation from vulnerability to insult
Weaknesses
  • Does not advance the main plot
  • No character change or consequence
  • Feels like a detour

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to escalate the Tracy-Jenna feud through a comedic hypothetical, which it does with sharp, character-specific dialogue and escalating absurdity. The biggest limiter is that the scene is a self-contained comedic beat that doesn't advance the main plot, so it feels like a detour rather than a turning point; integrating it more tightly with the flu storyline would lift it.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of using a 'last two people on Earth' hypothetical to explore character incompatibility is fresh and ripe for comedy, but it's a familiar sitcom trope (forced bonding through crisis) and doesn't break new ground.

Plot: 5

The scene is a character-driven dialogue with no plot progression; it's a comedic set piece that deepens the Tracy-Jenna conflict but doesn't move the overall story forward.

Originality: 7.5

The 'last two on Earth' scenario is a fresh take on the forced-bonding trope, and the specific details (ninja vs. Catholic, Joker's lair) are original and character-specific.


Character Development

Characters: 7.5

Tracy and Jenna are both vividly characterized through their absurd preferences (ninja vs. Catholic kids, Joker's lair vs. Barney's), but the scene doesn't reveal new dimensions; it reinforces existing traits.

Character Changes: 2

Neither character changes; they remain entrenched in their positions, which is the point of the scene but limits its impact.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 5

The conflict is interpersonal and comedic, with Tracy and Jenna's mutual annoyance escalating through the hypothetical, but it lacks high stakes or urgency.

Opposition: 6

The opposition is mutual: Tracy and Jenna are equally stubborn and unwilling to see the other's perspective, creating a balanced conflict.

High Stakes: 4

The stakes are low—just the characters' egos and their ability to work together—but the hypothetical raises the emotional stakes of their incompatibility.

Story Forward: 3

The scene doesn't advance the main plot (flu outbreak, Liz's stand, Jack's relationship) but does develop the Tracy-Jenna subplot, which may pay off later.

Unpredictability: 7

This scene is unpredictable because the hypothetical takes unexpected turns (ninja kids, Joker's lair) and the argument ends on a surprising note about Thanksgiving.

Philosophical Conflict: 6


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 4

The scene is more funny than emotionally resonant; the characters' frustration is relatable but not deeply moving.

Dialogue: 8

The dialogue is sharp, fast-paced, and perfectly in character, with Tracy's non-sequiturs and Jenna's diva sensibilities clashing hilariously. The 'racist' line is a standout, but some jokes feel like they're trying too hard.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because the rapid-fire banter and escalating absurdity keep the reader entertained, and the character dynamics are compelling.

Pacing: 8

The pacing is brisk, with short lines and quick exchanges that maintain comedic momentum, though the scene could be trimmed slightly without losing impact.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 9

Formatting is standard screenplay format, with clear scene heading, action lines, and dialogue. No issues.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic comedic structure: setup (Tracy's accusation), escalation (the hypothetical), and punchline (the argument over Thanksgiving). It's effective but formulaic.


Critique
  • The scene lacks a clear dramatic arc. It begins with Tracy asking why Jenna doesn’t like him, which raises an emotional stake, but then devolves into a silly hypothetical that doesn’t resolve the initial question or lead to any character growth. The abrupt ending ('This isn’t working!') feels like a non-sequitur rather than a payoff.
  • The 'Chinese people are good at math' joke feels racially insensitive and out of tone with the rest of the scene. It doesn’t come from Tracy’s character in a meaningful way—it’s a throwaway line that risks offending without earning laughs. In a post-2008 comedy landscape, such humor can alienate audiences and weaken the script.
  • The hypothetical exercise (last two people on Earth) has comedic potential but is underdeveloped. The choices (Catholic vs. ninja kids, Barney’s vs. Joker’s lair) are funny, but they don’t build to a climax or reveal anything new about Tracy and Jenna’s relationship. The scene ends just as it starts to explore their dynamic.
  • There is no connection to the larger flu-plot. While side character moments can offer relief, this scene feels entirely disconnected from the tension Liz is facing (her secret vaccination, her ethical stand). It would benefit from a subtle callback or a thematic link (e.g., both Tracy and Jenna are avoiding the crisis).
  • The dialogue is flat in places. Tracy’s line about 'doing it like animals' is clunky, and the exchange lacks the rapid-fire, witty rhythm typical of 30 Rock. The scene could be tightened—several lines are repetitive ('We’re the two least compatible people' is said twice in different forms).
  • The scene doesn’t advance the overall story or character arcs. By Scene 17, we’re deep into Act Two, but Tracy and Jenna haven’t changed or contributed to the central conflict. This feels like filler that could be cut or repurposed to serve the main narrative.
Suggestions
  • Give the scene a clear emotional goal. For example, have Tracy genuinely try to understand why Jenna dislikes him, and use the hypothetical as a way for both to admit their insecurities. End with a sincere moment—maybe they agree they’d be terrible together but respect each other’s talent, echoing their later sweet moment in Scene 23.
  • Replace the racist joke with a character-specific quirk (e.g., Tracy claims he knows everything about Chinese history from a movie he saw, or Jenna misidentifies a Chinese actor). Keep the humor absurd but not offensive.
  • Connect the hypothetical to the flu outbreak. For instance, have Tracy say 'If we’re the last two people, I’d finally get to be the star without you stealing my spotlight.' This ties their rivalry to the larger crisis and makes the scene feel less isolated.
  • Shorten the scene by cutting the Jimmy Carter/ Menachem Begin jokes and the 'doing it like animals' line. Focus on the hypothetical and let the comedy come from their incompatible choices. Add a punchline where one of them breaks character and admits they’d actually miss the other.
  • Add a visual or action beat to punctuate the end. Instead of a cut, have Tracy throw a prop in frustration or Jenna storm out, leaving Tracy alone with a realization. This would give the scene a stronger button.
  • Use this scene to plant a seed for their later teamwork in Scene 23. Perhaps they agree that in the apocalypse they’d have to cooperate, which pays off when they later bond over sushi. This would create a mini-arc for the duo.



Scene 18 -  Nurturing Acceptance
INT. STUDIO - A LITTLE LATER
Liz is in full Mother Theresa mode, reveling in her newfound
popularity with the crew. She gives one guy a hot compress,
wraps a shivering GRIZZ in a blanket, and gives a feverish
Frank hot tea with lemon.
FRANK
Liz, you’re so kind and beautiful.
I love you.
(calling out)
I love Liz Lemon!
CREW GUY #1
She’s a saint!
CREW GUY #2
Why did we ever hate her?!
LIZ
You hated me?
CREW GUY #1
I think it was her glasses! They
made her seem aloof and stuck up!

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 22.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
AFRICAN AMERICAN CREW GUY
And the way she can’t keep black
guys straight!
LIZ
That’s not true, Fred.
AFRICAN AMERICAN CREW GUY
I’m Rick.
(then smiling)
But your racial insensitivity’s
okay now, you’re one of us!
They all cheer. Liz notices Jack and crosses to him.
JACK
Lemon, I never realized you were
such a woman of the people.
LIZ
I have humble roots, Jack.
(proudly)
As a kid one of my best friends was
on food stamps and another may have
been mentally retarded.
(then)
How was your date with Elisa?
JACK
Oh, Lemon, it was magical...
QUICK CUTS TO:
Genres:

Summary Liz wins over the crew by caring for them, overcoming their past resentment over her glasses and racial insensitivity. She then boasts about her humble roots before asking Jack about his magical date with Elisa.
Strengths
  • Sharp, self-aware joke about the crew's reasons for hating Liz
  • Consistent character voice for Liz in 'Mother Theresa' mode
  • Efficient transition to Jack's romantic subplot
Weaknesses
  • No new complication or tension introduced
  • Liz's 'humble roots' line feels like a weak, generic boast
  • Scene is a low-stakes victory lap

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to pay off Liz's earlier moral stand with comedic irony, showing her basking in unearned adoration while hiding her hypocrisy. It lands the humor well, but the scene is largely transitional, lacking a strong central conflict or plot advancement, which limits its overall impact.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of Liz being celebrated for a stand she secretly abandoned is a fresh twist on the 'hypocrite' trope, but it's a minor beat in a larger episode.

Plot: 5.5

The scene advances the subplot of Liz's flu shot hypocrisy but doesn't move the main plot forward significantly; it's a comedic interlude.

Originality: 6.5

The scene offers a fresh take on the 'reluctant hero' trope, but the execution is familiar for a sitcom.


Character Development

Characters: 6.5

Liz's character is showcased in her discomfort and self-aggrandizement, but the crew members are one-dimensional, serving only as a chorus of praise.

Character Changes: 3

Liz doesn't fundamentally change; she's momentarily inflated by praise but remains the same person, and the scene doesn't push her arc forward.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 5


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 4

The conflict is internal for Liz (her guilt vs. her enjoyment of praise) and mild external tension with Jack, but it's low-stakes and comedic.

Opposition: 3

The opposition is minimal—Jack's mild skepticism and Liz's own guilt—but it's not a strong adversarial force.

High Stakes: 3

The stakes are low—Liz's reputation and her secret—but they're played for comedy rather than tension.

Story Forward: 4

The scene mainly serves as a comedic beat, with the only story progression being Liz's continued avoidance of the flu shot and her interaction with Jack.

Unpredictability: 6

The scene is unpredictable in its details (e.g., the crew's reasons for hating Liz), but the overall outcome is predictable.

Philosophical Conflict: 6


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 5

The scene is emotionally light, with a warm but ironic tone; it doesn't aim for deep emotional resonance.

Dialogue: 7.5

The dialogue is sharp and funny, especially the crew's backhanded compliments, but some lines feel like filler to pad the scene.

Engagement: 7

The scene is engaging because of its witty dialogue and the ironic situation, but it lacks a strong hook to keep the reader riveted.

Pacing: 8

The pacing is brisk, with quick exchanges and a fast-moving montage of Liz's good deeds, which suits the comedic tone.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard screenplay format, with clear action lines and dialogue, though the quick cuts at the end are a bit abrupt.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic comedic structure: setup (Liz's saintly actions), complication (crew's praise), and a punchline (Jack's comment). It's effective but simple.


Critique
  • The scene resolves the crew's hatred for Liz too quickly and superficially. The reasons—glasses making her seem aloof and her inability to keep Black guys straight—are played for laughs but come across as lazy and potentially offensive, especially when the African American crew guy says her racial insensitivity is now 'okay' because she's 'one of us.' This undermines the gravity of the issue and doesn't give Liz any real growth or consequence.
  • Liz's line about her humble roots—'one of my best friends was on food stamps and another may have been mentally retarded'—is a weak attempt to prove her relatability. The joke feels dated and ableist, and it doesn't land because it's too blunt and lacks the clever twist characteristic of 30 Rock's humor.
  • The transition from Liz's boast to asking about Jack's date is abrupt. The 'quick cuts' at the end (though not shown in full here) are a lazy storytelling device. This scene should earn the emotional beat of Jack's reply 'magical' by establishing more tension or connection between the two characters beforehand.
  • The crew's collective apology and acceptance feel unearned. They hated her for superficial reasons, and now they love her because she's helping the sick? That's too simplistic. The scene misses an opportunity to show Liz actually earning their respect through meaningful action, not just through nurturing behavior that she's already doing (and which is partly a cover for her secret vaccination).
Suggestions
  • Rework the crew's confession to be more organic and comedic. For example, have individual crew members reveal more absurd or specific reasons for disliking Liz (e.g., 'Because you once laughed at my sweater' or 'You said my lunch smelled like a corpse'), and show her genuinely apologizing or winning them over with a clever retort or act of kindness that ties back to her character.
  • Replace the 'mentally retarded' joke with something that still highlights Liz's awkward attempts to seem down-to-earth but is funnier and less offensive. For instance: 'As a kid, my best friend lived in a double-wide and another one's dad was a mime. I am the people.'
  • Smooth the transition between Liz's conversation with the crew and her talk with Jack. Have Jack observe her from a distance, then Liz catches his eye and crosses to him. A line like 'So, you've officially become the flu saint?' could lead naturally into her boast and then her question about Elisa.
  • Instead of relying on quick cuts to show Jack's magical date in the next scene, plant a visual or verbal hint here that makes the audience curious. For example, Jack could be holding a souvenir (like a roller skate) or say something ambiguous like 'We saw a show that I'll never forget.' This builds anticipation without cheating the narrative.



Scene 19 -  The Vaccination Revelation
EXT. CENTRAL PARK - LAST NIGHT
A perfect romantic night as Jack, Elisa and a vacant, staring
Mr. Templeton take a pedicab ride.
EXT. COLUMBUS CIRCLE - LAST NIGHT
Jack and Elisa walk arm in arm as the old man trails behind.
Jack tosses change to a MAN IN SILVER MAKEUP performing as a
robot.

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 23.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
INT. THE RAINBOW ROOM - LAST NIGHT
Jack and Elisa slow dance on the revolving floor as the old
man sits and stares.
CUT BACK TO:
INT. STUDIO - CONTINUOUS
Liz and Jack as we left them. Jack lost in thought.
JACK
As we sipped wine outside Lincoln
Center I experienced one of life’s
rare perfect moments. Chopin
playing, Elisa laughing and holding
my arm, moonlight reflecting off
Mr. Templeton...
LIZ
You took out a catatonic man?
JACK
I admit it’s an ethical grey area --
LIZ
You’re “Weekend at Bernies”-ing Mr.
Templeton!
JACK
Well, we can’t all be perfect like
you, Lemon: selfless, principled,
risking getting sick even though I
hear your vacation is back on.
LIZ
Yes, and my vacation is very
special to me. But it must take a
backseat while my crew is in need.
JACK
Of course. Oh, Lemon, not that
you’d care, but a few hours after
you get a shot you end up with a
very distinctive bruise in the
shape of a bulls-eye.
Jack rolls up his sleeve. TIGHT ON a bulls-eye bruise.
Liz’s eyes go wide. She nervously touches her face.

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 24.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
LIZ
You’re right. I wouldn’t care.
Because I’m a woman of the people.
(then)
White --
JACK
Don’t shout White Haven.
Liz walks off with forced casualness, turns a corner and
frantically sprints off.
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Jack recounts his absurdly romantic date with Elisa and a catatonic Mr. Templeton to Liz, who objects to his unethical use of the man. When Jack reveals a bull's-eye bruise from a vaccination shot, Liz panics, realizing she may have been exposed to illness, and frantically runs away.
Strengths
  • Strong comedic concept (catatonic man as date prop)
  • Efficient montage showing relationship progression
  • Sharp twist with bruise reveal
  • Clear character voices in dialogue
Weaknesses
  • Lack of character change or internal conflict
  • Liz's 'White Haven' line feels like a repeated joke

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 7.2

This scene's primary job is to advance the romantic subplot while undercutting Liz's moral high ground, and it does so with sharp wit and a memorable visual gag. The biggest limiter is that the 'Weekend at Bernie's' joke, while funny, risks overshadowing the emotional stakes of Jack's relationship, and the scene's reliance on callbacks may feel slightly repetitive.


Story Content

Concept: 8

The concept of using a catatonic man as a third wheel in a romantic date is absurdly funny and fresh, and the bulls-eye bruise as a plot device is a clever twist on Liz's moral stance.

Plot: 6.5

The plot advances Jack's romance and Liz's internal conflict, but the scene is more of a character beat than a major plot turn, with the bruise serving as a setup for future scenes.

Originality: 8

The scene is original in its blend of romantic comedy and workplace satire, with the catatonic man as a third wheel being a fresh twist, though the 'moral high ground' trope is familiar.


Character Development

Characters: 7

Jack's romantic idealism and Liz's self-righteousness are well-drawn, but the scene leans on established traits rather than revealing new depths, and Mr. Templeton remains a prop.

Character Changes: 4

Liz's resolve is shaken by the bruise, but she doesn't change fundamentally; Jack's romantic pursuit continues without significant evolution.

Internal Goal: 7

External Goal: 6


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 5

The conflict is mostly verbal and internal, with Liz's moral stance clashing with Jack's pragmatism, but it lacks high-stakes tension.

Opposition: 5

The opposition is primarily ideological, with Jack challenging Liz's principles, but it's not a strong adversarial force, more of a friendly debate.

High Stakes: 5

The stakes are personal and comedic—Liz's moral integrity and Jack's romance—but they're not life-or-death, and the scene's tone keeps them light.

Story Forward: 6

The scene sets up Liz's eventual capitulation to the flu shot and reinforces Jack's relationship, but it's more of a transitional beat than a major plot advancement.

Unpredictability: 8

This scene is unpredictable because the romantic montage with a catatonic man is unexpected, and the bulls-eye bruise is a clever twist that subverts Liz's moral stance.

Philosophical Conflict: 7


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 5

The scene has moments of warmth in Jack's romantic recollection, but the comedy keeps emotional depth at bay, and Liz's panic is more amusing than moving.

Dialogue: 8

The dialogue is sharp and witty, with the 'Weekend at Bernie's' line being a standout, but some exchanges feel like they're rehashing previous arguments.

Engagement: 8

This scene is engaging because of its witty dialogue, the absurdity of the 'Weekend at Bernie's' situation, and the visual gag of the bruise, which keeps the audience laughing and curious about Liz's next move.

Pacing: 7

The pacing is brisk, with quick cuts between romantic flashbacks and the studio, maintaining comedic momentum, though the rapid location shifts might feel rushed.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 7

The formatting is standard screenplay format with clear scene headings and action lines, though the quick cuts between locations are a bit jarring.

Structure: 8

The scene follows a classic sitcom structure: setup (Jack's romantic tale), complication (the bruise), and a button (Liz's sprint), with a cold open and tag.


Critique
  • The quick-cut montage of Jack, Elisa, and Mr. Templeton's romantic evening is visually effective but lacks comedic or emotional depth. The scene could benefit from a brief audio cue or a reaction shot from Mr. Templeton to underscore the absurdity of including a catatonic man in these intimate moments.
  • The transition from the montage back to the studio dialogue feels abrupt. The script could use a short transitional beat, like a dissolve or a sound bridge (e.g., music fading out), to signal the shift in tone more smoothly.
  • Jack's line, 'Oh, Lemon, not that you’d care, but a few hours after you get a shot you end up with a very distinctive bruise in the shape of a bulls-eye,' is a bit too on-the-nose and expository. It directly tells the audience the clue rather than letting the visual bruise speak for itself. The reveal might land harder if Jack simply rolled up his sleeve without the explanatory dialogue, letting Liz (and the audience) connect the dots.
  • Liz's forced casual walk followed by a frantic sprint is a classic comedic beat, but the scene could use a momentary pause before her panic to heighten the suspense. A close-up on her face as she processes the implication of the bruise would strengthen the internal conflict.
  • The interruption of Liz's 'White --' with Jack's 'Don’t shout White Haven' is a funny callback, but it feels slightly rushed. A brief moment of eye contact or a beat before Jack cuts her off would make the joke land more naturally.
Suggestions
  • Add a brief audio cue during the montage, such as a romantic string section that stutters or distorts slightly when focusing on Mr. Templeton, to humorously emphasize his detachment.
  • Consider inserting a single shot of Mr. Templeton's blank face during the pedicab ride or slow dance, perhaps with a subtle reflection in a window or a streetlamp, to visually reinforce the 'Weekend at Bernies' metaphor.
  • Simplify Jack's dialogue before revealing the bruise: instead of the explanatory sentence, have him say 'Oh, by the way, Lemon...' as he rolls up his sleeve, letting the visual do the work. A short pause after the reveal would allow the audience to gasp.
  • Add a reaction close-up of Liz's hand nervously touching her face before she speaks, and extend the beat after she says 'Because I’m a woman of the people' to show her swallowing hard before the 'White --' outburst, building tension.
  • Integrate a subtle visual reminder of Liz's own bruise (e.g., a glimpse of makeup smudge or a quick angle shift) during Jack's reveal to parallel their hidden inoculations and foreshadow the later exposure in scene 20.



Scene 20 -  Fever Dream Denial
INT. MAKE-UP ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Liz bursts in. She sees a bulls-eye bruise forming and grabs
some makeup. Grizz and DOTCOM enter as she covers her cheek.
DOTCOM
Liz, you’ve been so kind during
this trying time. Grizz would like
to read you a haiku he’s written.
LIZ
Grizz, you don’t have to --
GRIZZ
(clears throat, re: paper)
Liz Lemon Lady -- Special healing
flower -- Beautiful Lemon.
LIZ
Oh boy, that’s so nice--
Grizz puts his finger to her mouth and shakes his head; “No.
Words will ruin this.” They exit. Liz starts rapidly
applying make-up but the color’s wrong. She opens the closet
to get more. Out falls a super feverish Kenneth.
KENNETH
I wasn’t resting! A Parcell never
lies down on the job, or undresses
in front of a horse.
LIZ
Kenneth, please get out of here.
KENNETH
(through delirium)
Wait. What’s on your cheek?
(MORE)

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 25.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
KENNETH (CONT'D)
Is that... a bulls-eye bruise?
(putting it together)
Ms. Lemon, you got a shot after
telling everyone you wouldn’t?!
You’re a bigger liar than my cousin
Hank who said I took off my shirt
in the gelding paddock!
LIZ
(thinking on her feet)
Kenneth you’re confused. You’re
having a fever dream.
KENNETH
I am?
Liz quickly covers her mark with the proper shade of makeup.
LIZ
Yes. You dozed off.
(suddenly shaking him)
Kenneth, wake up!
KENNETH
What?! Huh?!
LIZ
You were asleep.
KENNETH
Oh my. I just dreamed I accused
you of lying about getting a flu
shot and you told me I was confused
and was having a fever dream and
then you shouted wake up. I’m so
sorry. Ms. Lemon, can you ever
forgive me?
LIZ
(beat)
No.
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Liz Lemon frantically tries to cover a bulls-eye bruise from a flu shot she lied about getting. After a haiku from Grizz and Dotcom, Kenneth falls out of a closet, feverish, and accuses her. She convinces him it was a fever dream, he apologizes, but she flatly refuses to forgive him.
Strengths
  • Clever gaslighting premise
  • Strong character voices
  • Kenneth's fever dialogue
  • Comic timing of the 'No' punchline
Weaknesses
  • Scene is a holding pattern for the A-plot
  • No new stakes or complications introduced

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

This scene's primary job is to escalate Liz's hypocrisy and maintain the comedic tension of her secret vaccination, which it does effectively through sharp dialogue and a clever fever-dream resolution. The biggest limiter is the reliance on a convenient plot device (Kenneth's fever dream) that feels a bit too easy, and a stronger scene would have raised the stakes or added a twist to the cover-up.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of Liz hiding her vaccination from her staff is a strong comedic premise, and the scene executes it with a fresh twist by using Kenneth's feverish state to create a false resolution. However, the concept is not entirely original, as it plays on common sitcom tropes of hypocrisy and cover-ups.

Plot: 6

The plot advances the ongoing arc of Liz's secret vaccination and her moral hypocrisy, but the scene is largely self-contained, focusing on the immediate cover-up rather than moving the larger story forward significantly.

Originality: 6.5

The scene offers a fresh take on the 'cover-up' trope by using a fever dream as a deus ex machina, but the overall situation (hypocrisy, hiding a secret) is familiar in sitcoms.


Character Development

Characters: 6.5

Liz is shown as resourceful and quick-thinking but also hypocritical, while Kenneth's feverish state adds to his quirky, loyal character. The scene reinforces their dynamic but doesn't deeply develop either character.

Character Changes: 2

Liz does not undergo significant change; she remains hypocritical and self-preserving. Kenneth's change is minimal, as he is too delirious to fully process events.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 5

The conflict is primarily internal for Liz (fear of exposure) and external with Kenneth (potential discovery), but it is resolved too easily, reducing the tension.

Opposition: 4

The opposition is moderate: Kenneth is a weak opponent due to his feverish state, but the threat of exposure is real. The opposition is not strong enough to create high tension.

High Stakes: 5

The stakes are moderate: Liz risks being exposed as a hypocrite, but the consequences are not severe, and the scene resolves without lasting impact.

Story Forward: 5

The scene advances the subplot of Liz's secret vaccination but does not significantly move the main plot forward, as it focuses on a momentary cover-up.

Unpredictability: 7

This scene is unpredictable because the fever dream resolution is a clever twist, and Kenneth's delirious logic is both absurd and surprising.

Philosophical Conflict: 6


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 4

The emotional impact is limited, as the scene is more comedic than emotionally resonant, though there is a slight sense of relief when Liz escapes detection.

Dialogue: 7

The dialogue is sharp and comedic, with Kenneth's feverish ramblings and Liz's quick lies providing humor. However, some lines feel a bit forced, and the resolution relies on a convenient misunderstanding.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because it combines humor with a relatable fear of being caught in a lie, and the fever dream twist adds an unexpected comedic beat.

Pacing: 8

The pacing is brisk, with quick dialogue and rapid action, which suits the comedic tone. The scene moves efficiently from setup to resolution without dragging.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard for a screenplay, with clear action lines and dialogue. The use of parentheticals and transitions is appropriate, though there are minor issues with the 'MORE' and 'CONT'D' markers.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic sitcom structure: setup (Liz covering bruise), complication (Kenneth discovers), and resolution (fever dream). It is well-paced for comedy, though the resolution is a bit too convenient.


Critique
  • The scene effectively uses the comedic contrast between Liz's panic to hide her flu shot bruise and the absurdly sincere haiku from Grizz and Dotcom, which briefly undercuts the tension. However, the interruption feels slightly abrupt; the haiku could be integrated more seamlessly to heighten the absurdity of the situation.
  • Kenneth's accusation and subsequent gaslighting is a classic 30 Rock move—Liz's quick thinking to blame a fever dream is clever and in character. However, the resolution feels a bit rushed; Kenneth's immediate acceptance of the dream explanation, given his usual sharpness (even while feverish), strains credulity slightly. A moment of hesitation or a more elaborate justification from Liz would strengthen the scene.
  • The final line 'No' is a perfect punchline that underscores Liz's self-serving nature, but it might benefit from a brief reaction shot of Kenneth's hurt or confusion to land the joke more fully. As written, the cut to the next scene feels abrupt.
  • The scene's pacing is generally good, but the haiku sequence could be trimmed or reworked to maintain the frantic momentum from Liz's sprint into the room. Currently, it slows down the urgency just as Liz is trying to hide evidence.
Suggestions
  • Consider extending Liz's interaction with Kenneth by having her over-explain or manufacture fake memories of the dream (e.g., 'You dreamed you were in a gelding paddock with a horse-puppet?' ) to make her gaslighting more elaborate and comedic.
  • Add a physical gag where Liz, while trying to cover the bruise, accidentally applies makeup to Kenneth's face or her own hand, creating a visual joke that increases the chaos.
  • Insert a moment where Kenneth's fever causes him to hallucinate something that helps Liz's lie—like he sees a unicorn in the closet—so his confusion is more organic.
  • After Liz says 'No', include a quick cut to Kenneth's devastated expression before cutting to the next scene, or let him mutter a confused response like 'Oh' to emphasize the rejection.
  • To maintain tension, have Grizz and Dotcom linger in the doorway for a second too long, forcing Liz to act natural while desperately gesturing for them to leave.



Scene 21 -  The Unexpected Visitor
INT. MR. TEMPLETON’S LIVING ROOM - LATER
An elegantly dressed Elisa lets Jack in. He carries papers.
JACK
Sorry I’m late. Meeting ran long.

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 26.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
ELISA
Jack, I’m so excited. I’ve never
taken a cruise around Manhattan.
Do you think he’ll be warm enough?
She indicates Mr. Templeton, dressed in a heavy coat and hat.
JACK
He looks fine. But afterwards I
thought we’d get a formal dinner.
Elisa opens Mr. Templeton’s coat revealing proper formal
wear. Jack smiles and gives her a kiss. Suddenly the
doorbell rings.
ELISA
Who could that be?
She crosses to the door and peeks through the curtain.
ELISA (CONT’D)
Oh God. It’s Mr. Templeton’s son.
JACK
I thought he was in Europe?
ELISA
Me too. Jack, I’m not allowed to
have visitors.
She franticly removes Mr. Templeton’s coat and hat.
ELISA (CONT’D)
I can’t lose this job. I’d have to
go back to working the late shift
at Dunkin’ Donuts at eighty-ninth
and Broadway. It was so mind
numbing and the customers made me
so sad...
FLASHBACK TO:
INT. DUNKIN’ DONUTS - MONTHS AGO - LATE NIGHT
Elisa works behind the counter. REVEAL Liz Lemon and a crazy
homeless looking guy (the COLONEL) sizing each other up. A
worker enters with a tray of fresh Boston Kremes. Liz and
the man rush to the counter pushing and shoving.
CUT BACK TO:

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 27.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
Genres:

Summary Jack arrives late to Mr. Templeton's living room, and Elisa excitedly reveals his formal wear under a coat for a planned cruise and dinner. But their romantic moment is shattered when Mr. Templeton's son—thought to be in Europe—unexpectedly rings the doorbell. Elisa panics, frantically removing the coat to hide their plans, terrified of losing her job and being forced back to her miserable late shift at Dunkin' Donuts, as shown in a flashback.
Strengths
  • Clear external stakes
  • Character-specific flashback
  • Efficient setup for next scene
Weaknesses
  • Flashback slows momentum
  • No comedic payoff or punchline
  • Lacks character change or revelation

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to advance the Jack-Elisa romance while injecting comedic tension via the unexpected arrival of Mr. Templeton's son, and it lands well with a charming blend of humor and heart. The biggest limiter is the abrupt flashback to Dunkin' Donuts, which, while funny, momentarily derails the scene's momentum and could be tightened to maintain focus on the central conflict.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of a romantic date involving a catatonic man is fresh and comedic, but the execution leans on familiar sitcom tropes (hidden relationship, frantic hiding) without fully subverting them.

Plot: 6

The plot advances the Jack-Elisa relationship and introduces a new obstacle (the son's arrival), but the flashback interrupts the flow and the resolution is left hanging, creating a cliffhanger that feels more like a pause than a progression.

Originality: 7

The scene is original in its premise (romantic date with a catatonic man) and the flashback to Dunkin' Donuts is a fresh way to reveal backstory, but the hiding-from-authority trope is familiar.


Character Development

Characters: 6.5

Elisa's desperation to keep her job and Jack's romantic persistence are clear, but Mr. Templeton remains a prop, and the son is a one-note threat. The flashback adds depth to Elisa but feels disconnected from the present action.

Character Changes: 3

Elisa shows vulnerability and a desire for a better life, but neither character undergoes significant change; Jack remains the persistent suitor, Elisa the conflicted caretaker.

Internal Goal: 7

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 6

The conflict is immediate and tangible (the son's arrival threatens Elisa's job and the date), but it's resolved too easily with a frantic hiding, lacking sustained tension.

Opposition: 5

The opposition is the son's unexpected arrival, which threatens to expose Elisa's secret and ruin her job, but the opposition is not fully realized as the scene cuts away before the confrontation.

High Stakes: 5

The stakes are personal (Elisa's job and the relationship) but not high in a broader narrative sense; the threat of the son is real but underdeveloped.

Story Forward: 6

The scene moves the romance forward and sets up a potential conflict with the son, but the flashback and lack of resolution make it feel like a setup rather than a payoff.

Unpredictability: 7

This scene is unpredictable because the inclusion of a catatonic man in a romantic date is unexpected, and the son's arrival is a twist that could go in multiple directions.

Philosophical Conflict: 6


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 6

The scene evokes sympathy for Elisa's predicament and warmth for the couple's connection, but the comedic interruptions dilute the emotional resonance.

Dialogue: 7

The dialogue is sharp and characterful, especially Elisa's monologue about Dunkin' Donuts, but some lines feel expository (e.g., 'I’m not allowed to have visitors') and the son's off-screen presence lacks punch.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because it combines romantic tension with comedic absurdity, and the arrival of the son creates immediate stakes that make the reader want to see how they'll escape.

Pacing: 6

The pacing of the scene contributes to its effectiveness because it starts with a sweet moment, accelerates with the son's arrival, and then pauses for a flashback that, while funny, slows the momentum.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

Formatting is standard and clear, with proper scene headings and action lines, but the flashback transition could be smoother to avoid confusion.

Structure: 6

The scene follows a classic sitcom structure: setup (date), complication (son's arrival), and a comedic flashback that provides backstory but stalls the main action.


Critique
  • The scene effectively advances the subplot of Jack and Elisa's relationship, highlighting the precariousness and the comedic stakes of their secret romance. The use of Mr. Templeton as a prop in their date is consistent with the absurdity of the show, but the sudden panic when the son arrives creates genuine tension.
  • The flashback to Elisa's Dunkin' Donuts job is a classic 30 Rock style comedic detour, but it breaks the immediate tension of the son's arrival. It feels slightly forced and distracts from the main conflict—how will Jack and Elisa hide? The payoff (Liz Lemon and the Colonel fighting over donuts) is funny but doesn't serve the scene's primary objective.
  • The scene ends abruptly after the flashback without resolving the son's presence. While this sets up the next scene, the transition feels choppy. A brief beat back to the present (e.g., Elisa and Jack scrambling) would improve narrative flow.
  • Elisa's character is well-served here: her desperation to keep the job (despite hating it) adds depth, and her panic feels genuine. However, Jack's reaction is passive—he simply stands there. Giving him a line or action during the panic could strengthen his involvement.
  • The dialogue is snappy and in-character, especially Elisa's explanation of her Dunkin' Donuts experience ('mind numbing and the customers made me so sad'). The visual of Liz and the Colonel is a fun callback but might be too tangential for new viewers.
Suggestions
  • Consider cutting the lengthy flashback and instead having Elisa just mention the Dunkin' Donuts job in a line of dialogue. For example, 'If I lose this job, I'll be back working the night shift at Dunkin' Donuts, where Liz Lemon once fought a homeless man for a Boston Kreme.' This keeps the humor without breaking the scene's momentum.
  • Add a brief moment after the flashback where Elisa and Jack scramble to hide. A line like 'Quick, behind the curtains!' or Jack looking for a hiding spot would bridge the gap and heighten the comedy.
  • Expand the panic moment: Show Elisa physically pushing Mr. Templeton into a chair or frantically fixing his coat while Jack tries to remain calm. A visual gag (e.g., Jack accidentally knocking over a vase) could land the absurdity.
  • Give Jack a more active role in the panic. He could propose hiding in the same spot he later uses (behind the curtain) or make a dry remark ('This is like a Feydeau farce') to stay in character.
  • If the flashback is retained, consider fading back to the present more smoothly—perhaps with Elisa's line 'I'd have to go back to that…' trailing off as the son pounds on the door, pulling us back right away.



Scene 22 -  The Madman's Testimony
INT. MR. TEMPLETON’S HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Jack and Elisa are as we left them. A key fumbles at the
lock.
ELISA
He’s coming in. Please hide!
Jack nimbly jumps behind some curtains as Elisa covers Mr.
Templeton with a blanket. MICHAEL TEMPLETON enters.
MICHAEL
Hey, Elisa, sorry for the surprise.
I had a last minute meeting in the
city and I wanted to check on dad.
ELISA
No. It’s fine.
Michael notices Jack’s work papers near Mr. Templeton.
ELISA (CONT’D)
Oh, I was just reading to him. You
know, stimulating his brain with --
(re: document title)
-- “Corporate Protocol for
Undermining Sexual Harassment
Claims.”
MICHAEL
How is he?
ELISA
He’s healthy. But as always lost
in his own world, unaware of
anything happening around him --
MR. TEMPLETON
(springing to life)
A man comes to the house! He comes
at night and takes me!
Jack and Elisa react, shocked.
MICHAEL
Dad? What are you saying?
MR. TEMPLETON
A man in a suit comes! His hair is
thick like a Bolshevik Commissar.
(MORE)

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 28.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
MR. TEMPLETON (CONT'D)
He eats in rooms with spinning
floors! He throws metal at a
silver gentleman!
ANGLE ON Jack wincing at the description of their night out.
MICHAEL
Dad you sound crazy. God, maybe we
do need to consider homes. Elisa,
is he making any sense to you?
MR. TEMPLETON
People were singing on roller
skates!
Elisa looks to Jack who shakes his head; “Don’t.”
ELISA
He’s crazy. Your father’s crazy.
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary While hiding Jack from Michael's unexpected visit, Elisa pretends to read to Mr. Templeton. However, Mr. Templeton suddenly becomes lucid and describes Jack's secret night out in vivid detail, threatening to expose them. To maintain their cover, Elisa agrees with Michael that his father is crazy.
Strengths
  • Mr. Templeton's sudden lucidity
  • specific, absurd descriptions of Jack's outings
  • clear external goals and stakes
  • efficient complication of the plot
Weaknesses
  • Ending feels slightly flat—the lie 'He's crazy' resolves the tension too easily
  • Michael is a functional but unmemorable straight man

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 7.2

The scene's primary job is to escalate the comedic stakes of Jack and Elisa's secret relationship while maintaining the show's signature absurdity. It lands well with sharp dialogue and a hilarious payoff, but the overall score is limited by the scene's reliance on a one-note joke (the catatonic man) and a somewhat predictable resolution that doesn't fully exploit the potential for deeper character or plot development.


Story Content

Concept: 7.5

The concept of a secret date with a catatonic man is inherently funny and fits the show's tone. The twist of Mr. Templeton suddenly speaking is a fresh take on the 'caught in the act' trope, but it's a concept that's been used in similar sitcom scenarios, so it's not entirely original.

Plot: 6.5

The plot advances the Jack-Elisa storyline by introducing a new obstacle (the son's arrival) and creating a near-miss that could expose their secret. However, the scene is more of a comedic set-piece than a major plot driver, and the resolution (Elisa dismissing it as craziness) is a bit too easy.

Originality: 7

The scene is original in its specific details, such as Mr. Templeton's poetic descriptions of the date and the use of a catatonic man as a comedic device. However, the overall situation (hiding a lover from a family member) is a familiar trope.


Character Development

Characters: 7

Jack and Elisa are consistent with their established characters: Jack is quick-thinking and protective, Elisa is resourceful and anxious. Mr. Templeton's sudden lucidity is a fun character beat, but it's played for laughs rather than adding depth. Michael is a functional plot device.

Character Changes: 2

There is no significant character change in this scene. Jack and Elisa remain in the same emotional state, and Mr. Templeton's lucidity is a temporary gag. The scene is more about maintaining the status quo of their secret relationship.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 6.5

The conflict is primarily situational: the sudden arrival of Michael threatens to expose Jack and Elisa. There's also a minor conflict between Elisa's desire to keep her job and her relationship with Jack. The conflict is resolved quickly, but it's effective for the comedy.

Opposition: 5.5

The opposition comes from Michael, who inadvertently threatens to expose the secret. However, Michael is not a deliberate antagonist; he's just a concerned son. The real opposition is the situation itself, which is a common sitcom device.

High Stakes: 6

The stakes are moderate: if Michael discovers Jack, Elisa could lose her job, and their relationship could be exposed. However, the comedic tone undercuts the seriousness, and the immediate resolution lowers the stakes.

Story Forward: 5.5

The scene moves the Jack-Elisa subplot forward by introducing a new risk (Michael's suspicion) and reinforcing the need for secrecy. However, it doesn't significantly alter the main plot or other storylines.

Unpredictability: 7

This scene is unpredictable because Mr. Templeton, who has been a silent prop, suddenly speaks and describes the date in a way that could expose Jack. The audience doesn't expect the catatonic man to become a threat, making the twist surprising.

Philosophical Conflict: 5


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 5

The emotional impact is limited to mild tension and amusement. There's a brief moment of panic for Elisa, but it's undercut by the absurdity of the situation. The scene doesn't aim for deep emotional resonance.

Dialogue: 8

The dialogue is sharp and witty, with Mr. Templeton's descriptions of the date being a highlight. The exchange between Elisa and Michael is natural, and Jack's silent 'Don't' is a great comedic beat. However, some lines feel a bit on-the-nose for exposition.

Engagement: 7.5

This scene is engaging because it combines the tension of a near-discovery with the absurd humor of Mr. Templeton's sudden lucidity. The audience is invested in whether Jack and Elisa will be caught, and the comedic payoff is satisfying.

Pacing: 8

The pacing of the scene contributes to its effectiveness because it starts with a calm setup, quickly escalates with Michael's arrival, and then delivers a rapid-fire series of comedic beats as Mr. Templeton speaks. The quick cuts and reactions keep the energy high.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard screenplay format, with clear scene headings, action lines, and dialogue. The use of parentheticals and camera directions is minimal but effective. The scene is easy to visualize.

Structure: 7.5

The scene follows a classic sitcom structure: setup (Jack and Elisa in the room), complication (Michael's arrival), and resolution (Mr. Templeton's outburst and Elisa's dismissal). The pacing is tight, with the comedy building to the reveal of Mr. Templeton's lucidity.


Critique
  • The scene effectively escalates the comedic tension by having Mr. Templeton spring to life with vivid, specific details about his outings with Jack. The contrast between his usual catatonia and sudden lucidity is hilarious and well-timed.
  • The dialogue for Mr. Templeton is strong and characterful—'thick like a Bolshevik Commissar' and 'rooms with spinning floors' paint a clear, absurd picture that the audience can connect to the earlier montage.
  • However, the scene relies heavily on Michael being gullible. He immediately accepts his father's ramblings as proof of insanity without any skepticism or follow-up questions. This feels a bit too convenient for the plot and undermines potential conflict.
  • The pacing is brisk, which works for a sitcom, but the transition from Michael's casual entrance to Mr. Templeton's outburst could use a beat of awkward silence or a suspicious look from Michael to heighten the tension.
  • Elisa's final line 'He's crazy. Your father's crazy.' is functional but lacks a punchy comedic button. The repetition of 'crazy' feels a little flat compared to the earlier creative descriptions.
  • The visual cue of Jack shaking his head 'Don't' is clear, but the audience might miss it if the scene is performed quickly. Consider adding a silent, more exaggerated gesture to reinforce the comedy of Elisa's lie.
Suggestions
  • Add a moment where Michael looks curious or doubtful after his father's outburst—perhaps a close-up on his face as he processes the information, then he shrugs it off with a line like 'Okay, that's new.' This would create a brief pause and amplify the humor.
  • Consider giving Elisa a more memorable lie than just 'He's crazy.' She could add a humorous detail, like 'He thinks he's been to a roller disco on the moon' or 'He keeps insisting we have a Bolshevik valet.' This would tie back to Mr. Templeton's description and make her cover-up funnier.
  • To strengthen Michael's character, have him notice something specific—like the work papers being out of place or a slight movement behind the curtain—before Mr. Templeton speaks, adding a layer of near-discovery that the audience enjoys.
  • Insert a quick reaction shot from Jack while he's hiding—maybe a silent 'Oops' or a wince that the camera catches through the curtains—to emphasize his panic and the absurdity of the situation.
  • End the scene on a visual gag: after Elisa says 'Your father's crazy,' cut to Mr. Templeton giving a sly, knowing wink to the camera (or to Jack off-screen), confirming he's playing along. This would add a twist and reward attentive viewers.



Scene 23 -  Last Audience
INT. TRACY’S DRESSING ROOM - LATER
Tracy and Jenna are as we left them. Tracy is fed up.
TRACY
Argh, Jenna! Argh! Why is our
hypothetical relationship so hard?
JENNA
Because you’re impossible. We’re
the last people on earth and you
won’t let me emcee the Emmys?
TRACY
Is nothing sacred?! That should be
a reality TV show host! You’re the
problem. You won’t even let me
give you an affectionate nickname.
JENNA
You called me the N-word.
TRACY
Can we at least agree that we’d
want our kids to be actors?
JENNA
Of course. They’d study Strasberg.

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 29.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
TRACY
They’d study Stanislavski! Just
like my role model Sidney Poitier!
JENNA
My children must be “method”! When
they do overly sexualized jeans
commercials I want it to feel real
and very inappropriate!
TRACY
Damn it, Ni --
(bummed)
Jenna. There won’t be commercials
or actors because there won’t be
anyone around to watch us!
This realization hits them both hard. A silent beat.
JENNA
Wow. That would be so sad.
TRACY
I know. People should see you.
You’re really good.
JENNA
You’re making fun of me.
TRACY
No I’m not. You’re very talented.
JENNA
Thanks. You’re very talented too.
This is a genuine sweet moment. Overcome, they hug.
JENNA (CONT’D)
Wow. Maybe we can get along.
TRACY
Yes. And while that chair is
probably stuck in the door forever,
we can still lift people’s spirits--
Lightbulb! Let’s get them food.
JENNA
That’s a great idea! Hey, are you
thinking what I’m thinking?!

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 30.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
TRACY
(excited)
Seems unlikely but maybe!
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Tracy and Jenna argue about a hypothetical relationship and acting methods for their imaginary children. Their fight dissolves when they realize being the last people on earth means no audience, leading to a sincere moment of mutual appreciation and a hug. They end with a shared, hopeful idea to get food and lift spirits.
Strengths
  • Sharp character voices
  • Earned sweet moment
  • Clear conflict and resolution
Weaknesses
  • Disconnected from main plot
  • Familiar premise
  • No thematic depth

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

This scene's primary job is to resolve the Jenna-Tracy conflict through a comedic hypothetical, and it lands the humor and the emotional beat effectively, but the resolution feels a bit too easy and the scene's momentum is limited by its static setting and lack of external stakes.


Story Content

Concept: 7.5

The concept of using a 'last two people on earth' hypothetical to explore the characters' relationship is fresh and fits the show's absurdist tone. It provides a clear framework for their argument and eventual reconciliation.

Plot: 6

The plot is simple: the argument continues, hits a low point, then pivots to a shared realization and a plan. It's a character-driven scene that doesn't advance the main plot but resolves a subplot.

Originality: 7.5

The 'last two on earth' scenario is a fresh take on the classic 'enemies forced to cooperate' trope, and the specific details (Emmys, Joker's lair) are original and character-specific.


Character Development

Characters: 7.5

Both characters are consistent: Jenna's vanity and Tracy's absurdity are on display, but the scene also reveals their vulnerability and need for validation. The hug is a genuine character moment that feels earned.

Character Changes: 5

Both characters shift from antagonism to a tentative alliance. They don't undergo a major transformation, but they do change their attitude toward each other.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 5


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 5

The conflict is interpersonal and verbal, with a clear escalation and de-escalation. The stakes are low (they're just arguing), but the emotional stakes are real for the characters.

Opposition: 6

The opposition is mutual and equal; both characters are stubborn and refuse to back down, creating a balanced conflict.

High Stakes: 3

The stakes are low in the grand scheme, but the characters treat their argument as high-stakes. The hypothetical raises the stakes emotionally but not in reality.

Story Forward: 4

The scene resolves the Jenna-Tracy conflict and sets up a new plan (getting food), which could lead to further interactions, but it doesn't advance the main plot significantly.

Unpredictability: 7

This scene is unpredictable because the argument takes a sudden turn into a hypothetical that could have gone many ways, and the resolution is not the expected 'walk away' but a hug.

Philosophical Conflict: 6


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 6

The scene has a genuine emotional beat when they admit they respect each other's talent)Skip the hug. It's a small but effective moment of vulnerability.

Dialogue: 7

The dialogue is sharp and funny, with Tracy's 'Damn it, Ni--' and the exchange about acting methods. The banter is fast-paced and true to the characters, though the resolution dialogue is a bit on-the-nose.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because the rapid-fire banter and the absurd hypothetical keep the reader entertained, and the emotional turn is a pleasant surprise.

Pacing: 7.5

The pacing is brisk, with quick exchanges and a well-timed pause for the realization. The scene doesn't overstay its welcome.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard and clear, with proper scene headings and dialogue. The parentheticals are used effectively for tone.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic comedic structure: argument, escalation, realization, resolution. The beat of silence after the realization is well-placed.


Critique
  • The scene effectively provides a resolution to Tracy and Jenna's B-plot, but the shift from heated argument to heartfelt hug feels abrupt. The realization that there would be no audience is a genuine and poignant moment, yet it comes after a series of comedic bickering that doesn't fully build to this emotional payoff. The transition to 'let's get them food' feels like a convenient plot device rather than a natural progression from their character growth.
  • The dialogue retains the show's signature humor (e.g., the Stanislavski vs. Strasberg debate, the N-word reference) but the sweet moment risks feeling saccharine without a comedic undercut. The scene lacks a strong punchline or callback to earlier jokes (like the stuck chair) to maintain tonal consistency.
  • The scene ends on a classic 'are you thinking what I'm thinking?' setup, but cutting before revealing their idea may frustrate viewers. While it creates anticipation, it also diminishes the scene's closure and leaves the B-plot hanging until the next scene.
Suggestions
  • Pace the sweet moment more gradually: allow a beat of silence after the realization, then have Tracy or Jenna offer a simple, sincere compliment that echoes their earlier insults (e.g., 'You're not just a diva, you're a talented diva').
  • Add a brief callback to the stuck chair: have Jenna glance at it and say something like 'That chair is still stuck… but maybe we're not.' This would tie the scene back to their earlier physical comedy.
  • Instead of jumping to 'let's get them food,' have Tracy propose something absurd and specific (e.g., 'Let's go get them deep-fried peanut butter and bacon sandwiches from that cart on 5th—the one that gave me the runs but it was worth it'). This keeps the humor alive while showing their unity.
  • Give the scene a final comedic beat: after they hug and decide to get food, have them pull apart awkwardly, realize they don't know what to do with their hands, and then both freeze. A quick cut to the next scene would preserve the absurdity.



Scene 24 -  The Man Behind the Curtain
INT. MR. TEMPLETON’S LIVING ROOM - LATER
Elisa and Michael Templeton are as we left them. Jack still
hides behind the curtain. Mr. Templeton sleeps.
MICHAEL
Good. Dad’s finally asleep. Poor
guy’s really lost it.
ELISA
Don’t feel bad. If I learned
anything from “Girl Interrupted”,
“Sometimes the only way to stay
sane is to go a little crazy.”
(then)
Come on. Let’s make sure your
bedroom is set up.
They exit, leaving Mr. Templeton behind. Jack emerges and
tiptoes out. He stops and casts an affectionate glance at
the old man. Suddenly Mr. Templeton’s eyes open. He starts.
MR. TEMPLETON
He’s here! The man is here!
JACK
Shhh! Please, sir --
MR. TEMPLETON
With his barrel chest and his
trickster eyes! Are you coming to
take me?! I did things during the
war! Terrible things!
JACK
No. Sir. My name is Jack. I’m
just a man dating your nurse and I
took advantage of your condition to
be with her. You see, I ruined my
last relationship because we didn’t
make time to be together and I was
so afraid of reliving that pain
that I behaved terribly. And I’m
sorry.
(MORE)

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 31.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JACK (CONT'D)
But being out with Elisa these last
few nights has allowed me to
discover that this amazing,
beautiful woman is my soulmate.
MR. TEMPLETON
The Puerto Rican?
JACK
That really does not sound right.
But yes. She’s a gift, and I don’t
want her to lose her job. So I beg
you, sir, please be discrete.
MR. TEMPLETON
Listen, Jack, you seem like sweet
kids. I won’t tell anyone. All I
ask is that you still take me out
once in a while.
JACK
(moved)
Of course, sir. It’d be a
pleasure.
MR. TEMPLETON
And I’m gonna write down the name
of a Ukrainian man I want killed.
Jack reacts, “Is he kidding?” It’s not clear.
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary After Elisa and Michael leave, Jack emerges from hiding but is caught by Mr. Templeton, who mistakes him for a threatening figure from his war past. Jack calmly explains he is dating the nurse, apologizes, and declares Elisa is his soulmate. Mr. Templeton agrees to keep the secret in exchange for occasional outings, then darkly offers to write down a name of a Ukrainian man he wants killed, leaving Jack uncertain if he is joking.
Strengths
  • Perfect absurdist button
  • Genuine emotional confession
  • Character deepening for Jack and Mr. Templeton
  • Efficient plot resolution and setup
Weaknesses
  • Elisa's 'Girl Interrupted' quote feels slightly writerly
  • Jack's confession could use one more specific detail about Elisa

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 7.2

The scene's primary job is to resolve the ethical tension of Jack and Elisa's deception while deepening their romance, and it lands with a touching, comedic confession that humanizes Jack. The biggest limiter is the abrupt tonal shift into the darkly comic request for a Ukrainian man to be killed, which slightly undercuts the sincerity and could feel jarring; smoothing that transition would elevate the scene.


Story Content

Concept: 7.5

The concept of confessing to a supposedly catatonic man who then responds with surprising lucidity is fresh and comedic, but the execution leans on familiar romantic tropes.

Plot: 6.5

The scene advances the subplot by having Jack's secret nearly exposed and then secured through Mr. Templeton's complicity, but it doesn't significantly alter the main plot.

Originality: 7

The scene offers a fresh take on the 'confession to an unlikely confidant' trope, but the execution is familiar in its romantic comedy structure.


Character Development

Characters: 7

Jack's vulnerability is revealed, and Mr. Templeton gains unexpected agency, but Elisa is absent, limiting character interaction.

Character Changes: 6

Jack changes from a man hiding his actions to one openly confessing and seeking forgiveness, showing growth, but the change is not profound.

Internal Goal: 7

External Goal: 6.5


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 5

The conflict is internal for Jack (fear of exposure) and external with Michael's near-discovery, but it's resolved quickly and without major tension.

Opposition: 4.5

The opposition is primarily situational (Michael's arrival) and internal (Jack's fear), but it's not strongly personified.

High Stakes: 5

The stakes are moderate: Jack risks Elisa's job and their relationship, but the resolution is low-cost.

Story Forward: 5.5

The scene resolves the immediate threat of discovery and secures Mr. Templeton's silence, but it doesn't introduce new plot threads.

Unpredictability: 7

This scene is unpredictable because Mr. Templeton's sudden lucidity and his request for a hitman subvert expectations, though the confession itself is somewhat predictable.

Philosophical Conflict: 6


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 6.5

Jack's confession is genuinely moving, and Mr. Templeton's acceptance provides a warm moment, but the comedic twist dilutes the emotional resonance.

Dialogue: 7.5

The dialogue is sharp and characterful, with Jack's heartfelt speech and Mr. Templeton's deadpan responses, but the final line feels tonally inconsistent.

Engagement: 7.5

This scene is engaging because it combines emotional stakes with comedic surprise, keeping the audience invested in Jack's fate and the absurdity of the situation.

Pacing: 7

The pacing is effective, building tension with Michael's presence, then slowing for the confession, and ending with a quick comedic punchline, though the final beat feels rushed.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard and clear, with proper scene headings and action lines, though the parentheticals are minimal.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic three-beat structure: tension (Michael's presence), confession (Jack's speech), and resolution (Mr. Templeton's acceptance), but the final beat introduces a new comedic element that disrupts the flow.


Critique
  • The scene relies heavily on the coincidence of Mr. Templeton waking up just as Jack is about to leave, which feels a bit too convenient and undermines the tension built in previous scenes.
  • Jack's sudden heartfelt confession to a near-stranger (Mr. Templeton) about his past relationship failures and calling Elisa his soulmate feels rushed and slightly out of character. Jack is usually more guarded, and this vulnerability could use a few more beats of hesitation or self-editing.
  • The tonal shift from frantic farce (Jack hiding) to sincere confession to dark comedy (the Ukrainian hitman request) is abrupt. The punchline risks undercutting the emotional weight of Jack's revelation, making the audience unsure whether to take his declaration seriously.
  • Mr. Templeton's rapid transition from confused war veteran to lucid, mischievous dealmaker is jarring. While this is a comedy, a brief moment of confusion or struggle to focus would make his sudden clarity feel earned rather than arbitrary.
  • The scene is very short and could benefit from a brief glance or word from Elisa and Michael in the other room to increase suspense or remind the audience of the ticking clock.
Suggestions
  • Add a moment where Jack almost leaves, pauses, and then returns to the sleeping Mr. Templeton to make his decision to speak more deliberate and character-driven.
  • Include a line or two where Jack hesitates before confessing—perhaps he starts to make a joke or deflects, then stops himself. This would highlight his growth and make the confession feel more earned.
  • Consider having Mr. Templeton's lucidity surface more gradually. For example, he mutters a few fragments of the war story, then slowly focuses on Jack, giving the performance a touch of realism even within the comedy.
  • After Mr. Templeton's request for the Ukrainian man, add a close-up on Jack's face where he gives a small, uncertain smile or a nervous laugh, leaving the ambiguity stronger and allowing the audience to decide if it's a joke.
  • Insert a quick cutaway to Elisa and Michael's voices from the other room, creating a sense of urgency and raising the stakes for Jack to exit unseen before they return.



Scene 25 -  The Flu Shot Fiasco
INT. STUDIO BACKSTAGE - A LITTLE LATER
Sick people are everywhere. Tracy and Jenna enter.
JENNA
TGS Staff! Tracy and I have joined
forces to lift your spirits.
TRACY
You’re all so special to us.
Especially you, guy I couldn’t care
less about.
JENNA
We’ve gotten everyone the perfect
“get over the flu” treat...
TRACY/JENNA
Sushi!

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 32.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
DELIVERY MEN enter with trays of sushi. Everyone recoils.
TRACY
Don’t be shy! There’s eel!
JENNA
Come on. Promise you’ll at least
smell it.
Liz enters. Facial bruise totally covered.
LIZ
What are you guys doing?! This is
not the way to help sick people!
DOTCOM
They don’t get us like you do, Liz.
She smiles proudly, then notices Kenneth collapsed on a chair
shivering. She removes her sweater and bundles him with it.
It’s a stylized, saintly moment: she smiles maternally,
Kenneth smiles back, everyone is moved, Grizz is glowing. An
angelic light from above shines down on her (a GAFFER adjusts
a light to see better). Kenneth reaches out a clammy hand
and touches his angel’s face. Make-up comes off on his hand
revealing... the bulls-eye bruise. Everyone gasps.
PETE
Liz, what’s that on your face?
JENNA
Saint Liz got a flu shot!
Everyone reacts angry and betrayed.
CREW GUY #1
She sold out her principles for a
stupid vacation!
CREW GUY #2
She’s so selfish and shallow!
AFRICAN AMERICAN CREW GUY
Just because I’m black she assumed
I wanted to hear a Dr. J anecdote!
KENNETH
Wake up, Kenneth! Wake up!
ANGLE ON a devastated Grizz who sheds a single tear. Jack
enters to witness this disaster.

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 33.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
LIZ
It’s not what you think! It wasn’t
just a vacation. It’s... I...
Everyone boos and jeers.
LIZ (CONT’D)
There’s a gentleman involved!!
Everyone freezes. A stunned silence. No one expected this.
LIZ (CONT’D)
That’s right! A Filipino gentleman
named Banyani! He’s a parasailing
instructor! I let him touch my
feet when they get tan! I have an
island lover!!
FLASHBACK TO:
EXT. BAHAMAS RESORT - LAST YEAR
Same scene. Liz lounges. WIDEN to reveal she’s making
flirty eye-contact with BANYANI, a beautiful Filipino man.
CUT BACK TO:
Genres:

Summary Tracy and Jenna try to cheer up sick crew members with sushi, but Liz arrives and scolds them. Kenneth touches Liz's face, revealing a bullseye bruise from a flu shot, angering the crew who feel betrayed. To deflect, Liz lies about having a secret island lover named Banyani, shocking everyone into silence.
Strengths
  • Visual unmasking via makeup on Kenneth's hand
  • Grizz's single tear
  • Specific crowd accusations (Dr. J anecdote)
  • Perfectly timed freeze on 'There's a gentleman involved'
Weaknesses
  • Banyani lie feels like a convenient escape
  • Tracy/Jenna sushi beat is a bit broad and slows the momentum

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to expose Liz's hypocrisy and create comedic fallout, which it does effectively through the bruise reveal and the crowd's reaction. However, the pivot to the 'island lover' lie feels abrupt and slightly undermines the emotional stakes, and the scene's reliance on broad caricature (e.g., the African American crew guy's line) may feel dated. A more grounded setup for the lie would lift it.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of a 'saintly' character being exposed as a fraud is classic sitcom fare, but the specific twist of a flu shot bruise and the absurd 'island lover' excuse is fresh and fits the show's tone. The scene effectively uses the ensemble to amplify the betrayal.

Plot: 6.5

The plot advances the ongoing 'flu shot' lie and Liz's attempts to maintain her heroic image, but the scene is more of a comedic set-piece than a major plot turn. The reveal and immediate cover-up are well-structured, though the resolution is deferred.

Originality: 7

The scene is original in its specific combination of elements: a flu shot bruise as a mark of hypocrisy, a saintly light gag, and a lie about a parasailing instructor. It's a fresh take on the 'caught in a lie' trope.


Character Development

Characters: 6

Liz's desperation and quick thinking are on display, and the ensemble's reaction (from adoration to betrayal) is well-executed. However, the characters mostly serve the joke rather than deepen, and the 'African American Crew Guy' line is a one-note stereotype that feels lazy.

Character Changes: 3

Liz doesn't fundamentally change; she doubles down on her lie. The crew's perception of her shifts from saint to hypocrite, but this is a temporary status change rather than a character arc.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 6

The conflict is primarily social: Liz vs. the crowd's expectations and her own lie. The reveal creates immediate tension, but the conflict is resolved too quickly with the 'island lover' lie, deflating the stakes.

Opposition: 5

The opposition comes from the crew's collective judgment, which turns from adoration to anger. The opposition is strong in numbers but not individually developed, making it a mob rather than a nuanced antagonist.

High Stakes: 5

The stakes are moderate: Liz's reputation and her vacation are at risk, but the scene treats them comically. The threat of being exposed is real but not life-altering.

Story Forward: 5

The scene moves the 'flu shot' subplot forward by exposing Liz's secret, but the immediate cover-up means the story doesn't advance significantly. It sets up future complications but is largely self-contained.

Unpredictability: 7

The scene is unpredictable because the reveal of the bruise is a clever visual gag, and the 'island lover' lie is an absurd pivot that subverts expectations. The audience is caught off guard by the escalation.

Philosophical Conflict: 5


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 5

The emotional impact is mostly comedic, with a brief moment of genuine hurt from the crew and Grizz's tear. The scene doesn't aim for deep emotion, but the betrayal and Liz's desperation are felt.

Dialogue: 7

The dialogue is sharp and funny, with memorable lines like 'She sold out her principles for a stupid vacation!' and the absurd 'I have an island lover!!' The banter is snappy, but some lines (e.g., the Dr. J anecdote) rely on racial stereotypes that undercut the wit.

Engagement: 7

The scene is engaging because it combines physical comedy (the bruise reveal), rapid-fire dialogue, and a relatable fear of social judgment. The audience is invested in whether Liz will get away with her lie.

Pacing: 7

The pacing is quick, with rapid cuts between reactions and dialogue, which suits the comedic tone. The scene moves from one beat to the next without dragging, though the final lie could use a beat to breathe.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

The formatting is standard screenplay format with clear scene headings, action lines, and dialogue. The use of flashback is indicated, and the 'angelic light' direction is a nice touch.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic sitcom structure: setup (Tracy and Jenna's sushi), complication (Liz's saintly moment), reveal (bruise), and a twist (the island lover lie). The pacing is brisk, but the twist feels rushed.


Critique
  • The reveal of Liz's flu shot bruise via Kenneth's touch feels overly convenient and a bit contrived, as it relies on the 'makeup smudging' trope which can come across as lazy writing in an otherwise cleverly executed script. The buildup to the 'saintly moment' is well-staged with the angelic light, but the payoff—the crew immediately turning on Liz—lacks nuance; their shift from adoration to anger is too swift and lacks the comedic beat that would make the betrayal land effectively.
  • The scene's emotional whiplash is jarring: Liz goes from being a hero to a villain in seconds, and while that's typical for '30 Rock', the condemnation by the crew feels unearned given their earlier praise. The dialogue from Crew Guy #2 and African American Crew Guy feels like filler—it doesn't advance the plot or character dynamics, and the joke about the Dr. J anecdote feels out of place in this high-stakes moment.
  • Liz's spontaneous invention of a 'gentleman involved' is a clever save, but the flashback to Banyani lacks payoff because the audience hasn't seen any significant romantic setup for Liz and Banyani beyond earlier flirtatious glances. The revelation that the evening would cost $200 (from Scene 28) is a punchline that comes much later, so within this scene, the Banyani lie feels like a desperate deflection rather than a planned comedic beat.
  • The inclusion of Grizz shedding a single tear is visually powerful, but it's undercut by the quick succession of reactions. The scene tries to balance pathos and comedy but leans too heavily on the latter, making the emotional stakes feel shallow. Kenneth's line 'Wake up, Kenneth!' is a nice touch of his delirious character, but it's buried in the chaos and could be given more space for comedic effect.
  • Jack's entrance at the end is wasted—he simply witnesses the disaster but doesn't react or interact, leaving him as a passive observer. Given his importance to the A-plot (his relationship with Elisa), his lack of involvement in this scene diminishes the cross-cutting narrative.
  • The sushi joke (Tracy and Jenna bringing sushi to sick people) is a classic '30 Rock' absurdity, but it's underutilized in this scene, serving only as an opening before Liz's entrance. The crew's recoil and the delivery men entering with trays are good visual gags, but the scene doesn't milk the comedy of the situation—e.g., Tracy and Jenna's cluelessness could be heightened.
Suggestions
  • Build more tension before the reveal: have Liz's makeup start to sweat or run from the heat, or have Kenneth grab her face more aggressively, making the reveal feel more inevitable and less random. Alternatively, have Kenneth's feverish touch be a slower, more deliberate moment that extends the suspense before the gasp.
  • Give the crew's betrayal more comedic beats: for instance, show a slow-motion montage of their faces turning from adoring to horrified, or have one crew member physically back away while another mutters a line that undercuts the drama (e.g., 'I knew she wasn't from Whitehaven').
  • Strengthen the Banyani lie by adding a callback to the earlier Bahamas flashback (Scene 1/12) in a way that feels more connected. For example, have Liz mention a specific detail like 'he always brings me a butterscotch dip' to make the lie more vivid, or have the crew react with absurd jealousy (e.g., Dotcom says 'I would let him touch my feet').
  • Expand Kenneth's role: after he wakes up from his fever dream, have him genuinely confused and insist that Liz is an angel, causing awkwardness. His line 'I dreamed you got a shot' could be a callback that makes the crew doubt their eyes.
  • Give Jack a more active role: have him step in to defend Liz (even if it backfires) or make a dry observation that undercuts the drama, like 'Lemon, you couldn't have used waterproof makeup?' to add a classic Jack zinger.
  • Trim or reframe the crew's accusations: replace the generic lines ('She sold out!') with specific, character-driven complaints that reference earlier scenes (e.g., 'She never shared her pudding!' or 'She called me a Marxist!'). This would make the betrayal feel more personal and funny.
  • Add a transitional beat after the reveal where a crew member tries to snatch the sweater back from Kenneth, symbolically stripping Liz of her 'saint' status. This physical comedy would underscore the emotional turn.



Scene 26 -  The Blanket Betrayal
INT. STUDIO BACKSTAGE - CONTINUOUS
Everyone is as we left them.
LIZ
I work hard! Don’t I deserve some
fun?! Come on, buddies, I’m still
one of you! I made you tea! I
laughed at your butt-centric sex
jokes! I gave you blankets!
Everyone starts to boo.
LIZ (CONT’D)
Grizz, remember the blankets!
Grizz shakes his head and exits. Jack reacts, “Oh, Lemon.”
CUT TO:

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 34.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
Genres:

Summary Liz desperately reminds her coworkers of the tea, crude jokes, and blankets she provided to prove she's still one of them, but they boo her. Grizz rejects her plea and exits, leaving Jack to sigh, 'Oh, Lemon.'
Strengths
  • Efficient beat of public shaming
  • Grizz's silent exit is a strong character moment
  • Jack's reaction line is perfectly in voice
Weaknesses
  • Repeats emotional beat from previous scene
  • No new complication or escalation
  • Crew remains undifferentiated

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to expose Liz's self-serving nature and the fragility of her newfound hero status, which it does with sharp comedic timing and a memorable visual gag. However, the rapid shift from heartfelt to farcical feels slightly rushed, and the resolution (the reveal) could have been given a beat more to land its emotional irony.


Story Content

Concept: 7

The concept of a 'saintly' character being exposed by a physical flaw is a classic comedic trope, executed with a fresh twist by tying it to the flu shot hypocrisy. The scene effectively uses the reveal to undercut Liz's moral high ground, but the setup is somewhat predictable.

Plot: 7

The scene advances the plot by escalating the central conflict: Liz's lie about the flu shot is exposed, turning the crew against her and setting up her desperate claim about Banyani. It's a pivotal turning point, though the plot movement is more reactive than proactive.

Originality: 7

The scene is original in its use of a physical mark to expose hypocrisy, blending slapstick with social satire. The dialogue and situations feel authentic to the show's voice, though the trope of a 'saint' being unmasked is familiar.


Character Development

Characters: 6.5

Liz's character is effectively highlighted as selfish and hypocritical, while the crew's reaction shows their fickleness. Grizz's silent exit and Kenneth's feverish state add depth, but the scene relies on established character traits rather than new development.

Character Changes: 4

Liz's character doesn't fundamentally change; she's exposed but immediately pivots to a new lie. The crew's perception of her shifts, but this is more a plot development than a character arc.

Internal Goal: 7

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 7

The conflict is primarily external—Liz vs. the crew—but it's rooted in her internal struggle to maintain her image. The opposition is strong, with the crew's booing and Grizz's exit providing clear resistance.

Opposition: 6

The opposition is strong—the crew's booing and Grizz's exit are clear rejections of Liz's claims. However, the opposition is collective rather than individual, lacking a single antagonist.

High Stakes: 6

The stakes are high for Liz—she risks losing the crew's trust and her vacation—but they are personal rather than global. The scene doesn't raise the stakes for other characters or the overall plot.

Story Forward: 7

The scene moves the story forward by escalating the central conflict and setting up Liz's next move (the Banyani lie). It's a crucial beat in the narrative, though it doesn't introduce new plot threads.

Unpredictability: 7

This scene is unpredictable because the reveal of the bruise is a sudden, visual twist that subverts expectations, especially after Liz's saintly actions. The audience is caught off guard by the crew's swift turn.

Philosophical Conflict: 6


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 5

The scene has emotional beats—Liz's desperation and the crew's betrayal—but they are undercut by the comedic tone. The reveal is more shocking than moving, limiting the emotional depth.

Dialogue: 7

The dialogue is sharp and comedic, with Liz's desperate pleas and the crew's booing creating a dynamic exchange. However, some lines feel expository, and the humor occasionally overshadows the emotional stakes.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because it combines humor with a dramatic reveal, keeping the audience invested in Liz's fate. The rapid-fire dialogue and physical comedy maintain energy.

Pacing: 7

The pacing is brisk, with quick cuts and rapid dialogue that mirror the chaotic environment. The scene moves from Liz's defense to the reveal without dragging, though the emotional beat could use a pause.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 7

The formatting is standard for a screenplay, with clear action lines and dialogue. The use of 'CUT TO' and the scene heading are appropriate, though the action lines could be more vivid.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic comedic structure: setup (Liz's defense), escalation (booing), and payoff (the reveal). The pacing is tight, but the transition from defense to reveal could be smoother.


Critique
  • The scene is extremely short and feels more like a transitional beat than a complete scene. It lacks dramatic momentum or emotional depth, offering no new insight into Liz's character or the conflict.
  • Liz's appeal to the crew is weak and repetitive: listing the same favors she did in the previous scene (tea, laughing at jokes, blankets) doesn't advance the argument or show her grappling with the consequences of her lie.
  • The crew's response—immediate booing and Grizz's silent exit—is predictable and offers no surprise or complexity. The scene misses an opportunity to explore the crew's mixed feelings (some might be sympathetic) or to show a more nuanced reaction.
  • Jack's line 'Oh, Lemon' is a trademark understated reaction, but it feels like a punchline rather than a meaningful commentary on the situation. It doesn't deepen Jack's investment or provide a pivot point for Liz's arc.
  • The scene ends abruptly with a cut, making it feel like a placeholder. There is no struggle for Liz—she has no new tactic, no moment of reflection, and no external pressure (like Jack intervening or Kenneth revealing the truth again).
  • Given the high-stakes buildup in previous scenes (Liz's lie about the lover, the crew's anger), this resolution is anticlimactic. The scene should either escalate the conflict or begin a turn toward reconciliation, but it does neither.
Suggestions
  • Expand the scene to at least a full page, giving Liz a chance to argue more creatively or emotionally. For example, she could pivot to a heartfelt confession about her fear of getting sick, or use humor to deflect the anger.
  • Add a moment of genuine vulnerability: Liz could admit she was scared and that her decision was rooted in selfishness, then offer a sincere apology. This would humanize her and create a potential bridge with the crew.
  • Include a crew member who defends Liz (e.g., Dotcom or Frank) to create internal conflict among the group, making the rejection more complex and less monolithic.
  • Use Jack more actively: instead of a one-liner, have him step in and purposefully undermine Liz's moral stance (e.g., 'See, Lemon, the elite always break first'), which would force Liz to defend herself more fiercely.
  • Tie the scene back to Liz's vacation lie: have someone (like Kenneth or Grizz) challenge her about the 'Banyani' story, forcing her to either double down or collapse into honesty. This would raise the stakes and create a dramatic climax.
  • End the scene with a specific visual or action that shows Liz's determination to win back trust, rather than just a cut. For instance, she could start boiling more tea while glaring defiantly at the booing crowd.



Scene 27 -  Taking a Chance on Magic
INT. JACK’S OFFICE - LATER
Jack fixes Liz a drink as she sits, head in hands.
JACK
Once again, Lemon, the line between
you and I blurs. Turns out you do
want your elite benefits. By the
way, don’t be in Istanbul in March.
We expect mud tornados and a fire
hurricane.
(off look)
Global warming may be real.
LIZ
I’m so embarrassed.
JACK
Why, because you’re human? Because
you desire an exotic lover?
Because you want to “get you groove
back?”
LIZ
You’re kind of torturing me...
JACK
Yes. It’s very satisfying.
LIZ
You know, I’m at a good place in my
life. I have a job I love, I own a
treadmill, I’m not ashamed to make
a scene at McDonalds when I get
“under-McNuggeted.” But with guy
stuff, I cannot keep it tight.
JACK
Lemon, earlier tonight I was
literally hiding behind a curtain
for a woman. It was like a scene
in a Moliere farce...
(off confused look)
A “Three’s Company” episode.
LIZ
(remembers chuckling)
Mr. Roper thought Chrissy was
pregnant, but she just had a wart.

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 35.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JACK
Everyone’s floundering when it
comes to love. We’re all beating
our heads against the wall, hoping
against hope for a moment of magic.
LIZ
Well, I’m not going on my trip.
What was I thinking? Meeting some
strange guy I’d kinda gotten to
second base with depending on how
exactly you count feet touching.
JACK
Come on, Lemon. You’ve already
been humiliated. The worst has
happened. Take a chance. Take a
chance on finding some magic.
Liz takes this in.
CUT TO:
Genres:

Summary Liz Lemon is embarrassed about her desire to travel to Istanbul for a romantic fling, but Jack Donaghy mocks her gently, shares his own romantic mishap, and encourages her to risk humiliation for a chance at romance. Though initially resistant, Liz begins to consider the trip.
Strengths
  • Strong character voices
  • Warm mentor-mentee dynamic
  • Effective pivot to final scene
Weaknesses
  • Low dramatic tension
  • No surprise or subversion
  • Thin philosophical conflict

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 7.2

The scene's primary job is to provide a moment of emotional resolution and character bonding between Jack and Liz, and it succeeds through sharp dialogue and a genuine shift in their dynamic. The biggest limiter is the reliance on callbacks to earlier jokes (McNuggets, wart) that, while funny, slightly undercut the sincerity of the moment, preventing it from reaching a higher emotional peak.


Story Content

Concept: 7.5

The concept of two flawed individuals bonding over their romantic failures is familiar, but the execution with Jack's 'Moliere farce'/'Three's Company' comparison and Liz's 'under-McNuggeted' confession adds a fresh, comedic spin. The scene's strength is in its relatable theme; its weakness is that it doesn't introduce a new plot element, serving more as a character moment.

Plot: 6.5

The plot is minimal, focusing on a conversation that resolves Liz's decision about her trip. It moves the story forward by having Liz decide to take a chance, but the scene itself is static, with no new external events. The strength is in the emotional progression; the weakness is the lack of plot advancement beyond Liz's internal change.

Originality: 7

The scene is original in its specific dialogue and character dynamics, but the 'take a chance on love' trope is familiar. The authenticity of the characters' voices makes it feel fresh.


Character Development

Characters: 8

Jack and Liz are both well-developed here. Jack shows a rare vulnerable side, admitting his own romantic floundering, while Liz is at her most self-deprecating and honest. The strength is in their chemistry and mutual understanding; the weakness is that the scene doesn't introduce new facets to their personalities, but rather reinforces existing ones.

Character Changes: 6

Liz changes from being embarrassed and ready to cancel her trip to being encouraged to take a chance. Jack also shows a softer side, but his change is less pronounced. The strength is in Liz's clear arc; the weakness is that the change is somewhat predictable.

Internal Goal: 8

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 4

The conflict is internal for Liz, as she struggles with her decision to go on the trip. There's also a subtle conflict between her public humiliation and Jack's encouragement. The strength is in the emotional stakes; the weakness is that the conflict is low-key and resolved within the scene.

Opposition: 3

The opposition is minimal; Jack is not an antagonist but a mentor. The main opposition is Liz's own self-doubt and fear, which is internal.

High Stakes: 5

The stakes are personal and emotional, not life-or-death. Liz's decision to go on the trip is significant for her character, but the scene doesn't raise the stakes for the larger plot. The strength is in the personal stakes; the weakness is the lack of external stakes.

Story Forward: 6

The scene moves the story forward by resolving Liz's decision about the trip, setting up the next act. The strength is in the clear pivot; the weakness is that it's a small step in the overall narrative.

Unpredictability: 6.5

This scene is somewhat predictable in its structure, but the specific jokes and the depth of Jack's advice are unexpected. The 'Three's Company' reference and Liz's 'under-McNuggeted' line add surprise.

Philosophical Conflict: 7


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 6.5

The scene has a moderate emotional impact, with Liz's embarrassment and Jack's empathy creating a tender moment. The strength is in the genuine connection; the weakness is that the humor undercuts the potential for deeper emotional resonance.

Dialogue: 8.5

The dialogue is sharp, witty, and true to each character's voice. Jack's 'Moliere farce'/'Three's Company' line is a perfect example of his intellectual humor, while Liz's 'under-McNuggeted' is quintessential Liz. The strength is in the banter and the emotional turn; the weakness is that some jokes feel like callbacks that might not land for new viewers.

Engagement: 8

This scene is engaging because of the witty dialogue and the emotional payoff of Jack and Liz's relationship. The audience is invested in Liz's decision and enjoys the banter between the two characters.

Pacing: 8

The pacing is well-balanced, with a slow start as Liz is embarrassed, building to Jack's advice, and ending with a decisive moment. The dialogue flows naturally, and the scene doesn't overstay its welcome.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 9

The formatting is standard screenplay format, with clear scene heading, action lines, and dialogue. The use of parentheticals is minimal but effective. The scene is easy to read and visualize.

Structure: 8

The scene follows a classic two-hander structure: setup (Liz's embarrassment), development (Jack's advice), and resolution (Liz's decision). It's a self-contained scene that serves as a turning point for Liz's arc.


Critique
  • The scene's pacing feels slightly off; Jack's opening joke about mud tornados and a fire hurricane comes across as a non sequitur that distracts from the emotional core—Liz's humiliation. It undercuts the vulnerability she's showing.
  • The dialogue leans heavily on exposition to explain Jack's parallel ('I was hiding behind a curtain'), and the Moliere-to-Three's Company translation is a bit clunky. The audience already knows Jack's story from previous scenes, so this recap feels redundant.
  • Liz's line about 'second base / feet touching' is amusing but too vague for the audience to fully track the joke. It relies on a specific memory from her previous flashback that might not be fresh in viewers' minds.
  • The scene lacks a strong visual or action beat to punctuate Liz's decision. She 'takes this in' is a weak ending—the camera cut feels like a placeholder. The emotional shift from 'I’m not going' to considering the trip needs a clearer turning point.
  • Jack's advice ('Take a chance on finding some magic') is heartfelt but generic. It would land better if it directly referenced their earlier conversation about Elisa or his own risk-taking, creating a more resonant callback.
Suggestions
  • Cut the global warming joke entirely to keep the focus on Liz's embarrassment and Jack's support. Replace it with a beat where Jack hands her the drink and simply says, 'Drink. I’ve been where you are.'
  • Trim Jack's 'Three's Company' explanation to a brief line: 'I was hiding behind a curtain for a woman—yes, like Three's Company.' The Moliere reference adds nothing and slows the scene.
  • Make Liz's 'second base' line more concrete: '...depending on how you define second base. He touched my feet, Jack. My feet.' This ties back to the earlier 'let touch her feet' line and strengthens the joke.
  • Add a small action at the end: Liz stands up, takes a sip of the drink, and says 'Istanbul. Okay.' or 'Fine. But if he tries to parasail me, I’m billing you.' This gives a clear decision and a comedic button.
  • Weave in a direct reference to Jack's own leap of faith with Elisa: 'You think I didn’t look stupid hiding behind that curtain? But I found my soulmate, Lemon. Go find yours.' This raises the emotional stakes and pays off their shared storyline.



Scene 28 -  The Price of Romance
EXT. BAHAMAS RESORT - A WEEK LATER
Liz sits in her dream vacation chair as “Magic” from Xanadu
plays. She looks fantastic; her hair blows in the breeze and
she makes the tankoort work. Suddenly, she sees him...
Banyani. He’s gorgeous. They share a smile. He approaches.
LIZ
Oh, hello, Banyani.
BANYANI
Elizabeth. I’ve been counting the
days until I could see you again.
Liz laughs at nothing in particular.
BANYANI (CONT’D)
You are so beatiful. Do you think
tonight could be a special night?
LIZ
Maybe it could.
He leans in close, taking in her beauty. It’s magic.
BANYANI
You know this will be two hundred
dollars, right?

30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 36.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
Liz reacts, “of course,” and stands. A passing waiter hands
her an ice cream. She moves to shove it in Banyani’s face,
then thinks better of it, takes a huge messy bite and strides
off proudly, displaying odd tankoort bows and straps.
FADE OUT.
END OF SHOW
Genres:

Summary At a Bahamas resort, Liz enjoys a romantic fantasy with Banyani until he reveals their evening costs $200. She defiantly takes a messy bite of ice cream and strides away proudly.
Strengths
  • Strong comic twist on romantic fantasy
  • Character-appropriate reaction from Liz
  • Memorable visual beat with ice cream
  • Effective use of Xanadu music for tone
Weaknesses
  • Banyani is a flat plot device
  • No connection to episode's main plots
  • Philosophical conflict is underdeveloped

Ratings
Overall

Overall: 6.5

The scene's primary job is to pay off Liz's romantic gamble with a comedic twist, and it lands the fantasy-turned-awkward beat effectively. The biggest limiter is the brevity and reliance on a single joke, which, while funny, doesn't deepen character or story beyond the punchline.


Story Content

Concept: 7.5

The concept of a dream vacation turning into a paid romantic encounter is a fresh, comedic subversion of the romantic fantasy trope, fitting the show's style.

Plot: 5.5

The scene resolves Liz's decision to go to Istanbul by showing her in the Bahamas, but the plot progression is minimal—it's a comedic coda rather than a major plot turn.

Originality: 7

The scene is original in its subversion of the romantic vacation trope, but the execution is a familiar comedic beat.


Character Development

Characters: 6

Liz's character is consistent—her awkwardness and self-awareness shine through, but Banyani is a one-note prop for the joke.

Character Changes: 2

Liz's character doesn't change significantly; she remains in her comedic comfort zone, though she does embrace the absurdity.

Internal Goal: 6

External Goal: 7


Scene Elements

Conflict Level: 3

The conflict is minimal—Liz's internal conflict about romance is resolved, and the external conflict is a comedic misunderstanding.

Opposition: 3

The opposition is minimal—Banyani's price is a minor obstacle, but Liz's own expectations are the main source of conflict.

High Stakes: 2

The stakes are low—this is a personal, comedic moment with no major consequences.

Story Forward: 3

The scene serves as a punchline to the previous setup, but it doesn't advance the main plot or introduce new conflicts.

Unpredictability: 7.5

This scene is unpredictable because the romantic setup is abruptly undercut by the price reveal, a classic comedic twist.

Philosophical Conflict: 6


Audience Engagement

Emotional Impact: 4

The emotional impact is light—amusement and a slight cringe, but not deep emotional engagement.

Dialogue: 7

The dialogue is snappy and funny, especially the final line, but it's sparse and serves the joke more than character depth.

Engagement: 7

This scene is engaging because it subverts expectations with a witty punchline, keeping the audience amused and invested in Liz's reaction.

Pacing: 7

The pacing is brisk, moving from fantasy to punchline quickly, which enhances the comedic effect but leaves little room for emotional depth.


Technical Aspect

Formatting: 8

Formatting is clean and standard, with clear action lines and dialogue, though the 'tankoort' reference may be confusing without context.

Structure: 7

The scene follows a classic comedic structure: setup (fantasy), twist (price), and punchline (Liz's reaction), which is effective for a short scene.


Critique
  • The scene serves as a satisfying comedic payoff to Liz's romantic fantasy, but the punchline (Banyani demanding $200) feels somewhat predictable given the show's tendency to undercut Liz's romantic hopes. The humor relies on the contrast between the magical music and the transactional reality, but the moment could land harder if the audience had more time to invest in the illusion before the reveal.
  • Liz's final action—taking a bite of the ice cream and striding off proudly—is a strong character beat. It shows her refusal to be humiliated or to lash out, demonstrating a subtle growth from earlier episodes where she might have made a scene. However, the transition from 'maybe' to 'of course' is abrupt; the scene could benefit from a brief internal reaction, such as a close-up on her eyes searching for a clue, to sell her dawning realization.
  • The use of Xanadu's 'Magic' is a clever ironic choice, but it might be too on-the-nose. The scene's tone oscillates between dreamy and abruptly grounded; the pacing feels a bit rushed, especially after Jack's heartfelt advice in the previous scene. The viewer might want a longer moment to savor Liz's triumph of self-respect before the fade out.
  • The tankoort costume is visually distinctive and ties back to earlier dialogue, but the description 'displays odd tankoort bows and straps' could be more vivid. As the final image of the episode, it should be striking and memorable; consider emphasizing how awkward or defiant it looks on her as she walks away.
Suggestions
  • Add a brief beat where Liz seems genuinely charmed by Banyani's compliment, then a half-second pause before his dollar amount punchline. This would let the audience momentarily believe in the magic before the rug is pulled.
  • Consider a final close-up of Liz's expression after she bites the ice cream—a mix of disgust, disappointment, and self-satisfaction—to underline her emotional journey and avoid ending on a purely visual gag.
  • To strengthen the connection to Jack's advice, insert a quick flashback shot of Jack's 'take a chance' line fading over Liz's face as she decides not to shove the ice cream in Banyani's face. This would show her applying his wisdom in the moment.
  • The scene might benefit from a small coda, like Liz walking alone on the beach, smiling to herself while 'Magic' plays out, before cutting to black. This would give the episode a more definitive emotional closure rather than just a punchline.
  • Tighten the dialogue: Banyani's line 'I’ve been counting the days' could be trimmed to 'I’ve counted the days' to sound more natural and less like a written cliché. Also, 'You are so beatiful' has a typo ('beatiful') that should be corrected to 'beautiful'.