Back to Eternity
written by
Grant Popielarz
Address
Phone
E-mail
INT. BETH'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
BETH MILLER (38) lies in bed beside her husband STEVE (40).
The room is large and well appointed. On the nightstand
beside Beth, her RINGTONE sounds. Her phone vibrates.
INSERT SCREEN
"Mom and Dad"
BACK TO SCENE
Beth rolls over and picks up the phone.
She clears her throat.
BETH
H... hello?
CAROL (O.S.)
Elizabeth? It's your mother.
BETH
(more awake)
Mom? Do you know what time...
CAROL
I know it's late, but I needed to
tell you...
Your father is in the hospital.
BETH
(Fully awake)
Dad? What's wrong?
CAROL
(Hitch in voice)
He's in surgery right now.
BETH
Is he okay?
CAROL
The Doctor says he has three days.
She lets out a small sob.
CAROL (CONT'D)
At most.
BETH
What?!
CAROL
Can you come?
BETH
Of course. We'll be on the next
flight.
CAROL
Thank you, Sweetheart.
BETH
Dan...?
CAROL
I'm calling him next.
BETH
Okay. I will see you soon.
Love you. And love to Dad.
CAROL
Love you, too.
The call ends. Beth stares for a moment at her phone.
She turns over and gives her husband a gentle nudge.
BETH
(Whisper)
Steve...
He sighs softly and rolls away.
BETH (CONT'D)
(Louder)
Steve.
He moves further away. Beth gives him a shake.
BETH (CONT'D)
(Full volume)
Steve!
Steve sits quickly upright and looks around, orienting
himself.
STEVE
Wha... what?
BETH
We have to go.
STEVE
Now? Where?
BETH
Eternity.
FADE OUT:
INT. MILLER HOUSE - NIGHT
Steve stands by the front door, checking his watch. He looks
towards the stairs. Checks his watch again.
Beth herds the children downstairs. TYLER (12) and KATIE
(15). Both carry large backpacks.
At the bottom of the staircase, Tyler sits.
TYLER
Where are we going again?
BETH
Iowa - Eternity.
KATIE
That's where you grew up, isn't it?
BETH
Yes.
TYLER
So we're going to see Gran and
Gramps?
BETH
Yes...
She pauses. Takes a deep breath.
BETH (CONT'D)
Gramps is... sick.
KATIE
How sick?
A long pause.
BETH
We'll see when we get there.
The family walks out the front door. Steve pauses and looks
into the house before closing the door.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
2 -
The Awkward Departure
EXT. DULLES AIRPORT - EARLY MORNING
A Taxi pulls up to the Departures curb. The DRIVER gets out
and opens the door behind him. Beth steps out. From the other
rear door, Steve climbs out. Katie scoots out behind him.
Tyler exits the front passenger seat.
The driver opens the trunk and begins pulling out bags. The
kids pick up their backpacks. Steve picks up two heavy
suitcases. Beth carries a smaller carry-on bag.
The terminal doors slide open as they approach.
As they enter, a minivan pulls up behind the taxi. DAN
JACOBSEN (35) climbs out of the front passenger seat as the
side doors slide open.
INT. TICKET COUNTER - CONTINUOUS
The airport terminal bustles with activity. People drag
suitcases behind them. Young people struggle with large
duffle bags over their shoulders.
Beth and Steve stand at the ticket counter. Behind them,
Tyler and Katie stand near the pile of suitcases. Tyler wears
large headphones and plays a handheld video game. Katie wears
ear buds and looks around at the crowds of people in the
terminal.
Dan approaches the ticket counter with his wife, MELISSA (33)
and their twins, RYAN and MEGAN (10).
Katie pulls out one of her ear buds.
KATIE
Uncle Dan! Aunt Liss!
Beth turns from the counter. Her eye catches Dan's.
DAN
Hi kids!
A beat.
DAN (CONT'D)
Hello Beth.
BETH
Dan.
Steve turns.
STEVE
Dan. It's been a while.
Hi Melissa.
MELISSA
Hi Steve. It's good to see you.
Beth, you look good.
BETH
You too. You still look the same.
For a moment no one moves.
BETH (CONT'D)
I mean beautiful, of course.
Melissa hesitates, then breaks into a beaming smile.
MELISSA
Of course. Thank you.
Ryan and Megan move to stand on either side of Tyler.
RYAN
Whatcha doin'?
Tyler turns his body away from Ryan and toward Megan.
MEGAN
Is that the new Starquest?
Tyler turns away from her too, engrossed in his game.
TYLER
Mmm.
KATIE
Are you going to see Gramps, too?
Dan looks at Beth. She gives a small shake of the head.
DAN
We are.
Steve turns back to the ticket counter as his turn in queue
comes up. THE TICKET AGENT beams at him.
TICKET AGENT
Yes, sir. Can I help you?
STEVE
We need four first class tickets on
your next flight to Des Moines.
The ticket agent types into her computer.
TICKET AGENT
I can give you four seats on our
regional flight 882 at 6:30 to Des
Moines.
Unfortunately, our regional flights
do not have first class seating.
STEVE
Business Class?
TICKET AGENT
I'm sorry, sir. Only standard seats
are available.
Steve looks at Beth she nods and makes a hurry motion with
her hands.
STEVE
That's fine.
The ticket agent nods, smiles and types again onto her
keyboard.
TICKET AGENT
That will be 845 dollars.
Steve stares at her.
TICKET AGENT (CONT'D)
(Smiling even wider)
How would you like to pay?
Steve hands her a credit card. She scans it and hands it back
to him.
TICKET AGENT (CONT'D)
Very good, sir. The flight will be
boarding at gate 46 in 60 minutes.
She points to the corridor.
TICKET AGENT (CONT'D)
Security is down there.
Steve returns the card to his wallet. He steps out of the
way.
Dan approaches the counter.
DAN
Four tickets for the 6:30 to Des
Moines.
He glances at Steve.
DAN (CONT'D)
Standard seating.
He passes her a credit card.
TICKET AGENT
Thank you, sir.
The flight will be boarding at gate
46 in 60 minutes.
Dan smiles and takes back his credit card.
TICKET AGENT (CONT'D)
(cheery)
Have a wonderful flight!
He turns toward both waiting families
DAN
Well, I guess we should hurry up to
security.
He joins Melissa. They pick up their luggage and begin
walking through the terminal to security. The twins follow
behind.
Steve looks at Beth. She shrugs and they start for the
security line as well.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
3 -
Security Line Skirmish
INT. SECURITY AREA - DAY
The area is packed with people from all over the world.
Babies cry over the drone of voices.
The security lines loop tightly through the stanchions,
spilling far past the designated queues.
Dan, Melissa and the twins take their place in a line that
isn't moving.
Steve and Beth approach a nearby queue. Katie and Tyler are
right behind them.
Steve checks his watch:
INSERT WATCH
5:40 AM
BETH
Are we going to make it?
STEVE
It's okay. These lines move
quickly.
Dan looks over.
DAN
Of course, if they privatize TSA
like your guy wants. We'd have to
swipe to use the X-ray machine.
Beth narrows her eyes as she adjusts her shoulder strap.
BETH
You're wrong, Dan. If more of these
government agencies were run like
businesses, they'd care about
efficiency.
DAN
Because privatizing the railways
has worked out so well?
Melissa puts her hand on his arm.
MELISSA
Dan...
DAN
I'm just saying...
BETH
Please. Just don't.
DAN
You are working so hard to gut
infrastructure funding and then act
surprised when the infrastructure
sucks.
BETH
I lobby for fiscal responsibility.
Some of us prefer that our tax
dollars don't get thrown into a
black hole of bureaucracy.
DAN
And some of us prefer they actually
build something useful.
Steve steps between them.
STEVE
Guys, can we maybe save the debate
for after we get through the metal
detector?
TYLER
(Without looking up from
his game)
Fifty bucks says Uncle Dan brings
up the military budget before we
hit the plane.
DAN
(Ignoring Tyler, leaning
over)
Beth, while you're out there
selling off public land, some of us
are trying to give working people a
voice.
Beth smiles, icy.
BETH
Well, 'working people' are about to
miss their flight to see Dad
because your 'voice' won't stop
talking.
DAN
That’s not the system, Beth.
He gestures toward the family ahead of them, unloading
bottles and bags.
DAN (CONT'D)
That’s a Mom trying to feed her
kids.
(a beat)
But I guess empathy isn't on the
billable hours worksheet.
Beth's smile disappears.
Steve sighs and rubs his temples, looking up at the overhead
monitors as the line creeps slowly forward.
INT. SECURITY CHECK - A SHORT TIME LATER
The two families arrive nearly together at adjacent check
points.
They place their bags and electronics in bins that carry them
through the X-ray.
Beth walks calmly through the metal detector. Katie follows,
dignified. Tyler starts to race through. The AGENT stops him.
AGENT
Slowly.
Tyler walks through with exaggerated slowness.
Finally, Steve steps through.
BEEP.
STEVE
Sorry...
He places his phone and wallet in a bin.
He walks through again.
BEEP.
Steve looks down and lifts his shirt. His belt with a wide
metal buckle is visible.
TYLER
Sheesh, Dad!
Steve removes his belt and walks through the metal detector.
BEEP.
AGENT
Sir. Arms.
Steve raises his arms to his side, and the Agent scans him
with a metal-detection wand.
BETH
Steve! We'll miss the flight.
Steve bends his arm and looks at his watch.
STEVE
We'll make it.
The whole family -- and the Agent -- stare at him.
Steve looks around.
STEVE (CONT'D)
What?
The Agent points at his wrist.
AGENT
Sir. Your watch.
Steve looks at his wrist.
A beat.
He sheepishly removes the watch and places it in the bin.
He walks through the detector.
Silence.
In the next line over, Dan tries desperately to hold in his
laughter.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
4 -
See You in Eternity
INT. GATE 46 - DAY
The two families sit on uncomfortable chairs in the terminal.
Tyler continues to play his video game. Katie sits with her
eyes closed, moving to the music in her ear buds.
Ryan and Megan sit together, sharing a magazine.
Melissa sits with her legs crossed, flipping through a
Glamour magazine. Dan stares out the window at planes moving
on the tarmac.
Steve holds his phone, scrolling through screens.
Beth looks at her watch, then at the departures screen:
INSERT – DEPARTURES BOARD
UNITED — CHICAGO .......... 6:05 AM ..... GATE 32 .....
BOARDING
DELTA — ATLANTA ........... 6:15 AM ..... GATE 18 ..... ON
TIME
AMERIAIR — DES MOINES ..... 6:30 AM ..... GATE 46 ..... ON
TIME
UNITED — DENVER ........... 6:45 AM ..... GATE 27 ..... ON
TIME
AMERICAN — BOSTON ........ 7:00 AM ..... GATE 41 ..... ON
TIME
DELTA — DALLAS ............ 7:10 AM ..... GATE 22 ..... ON
TIME
UNITED — LOS ANGELES ...... 7:25 AM ..... GATE 36 ..... ON
TIME
BACK TO SCENE
Beth sighs. She looks at Dan.
DAN
Beth... relax.
BETH
I am relaxed.
DAN
You've checked your watch six
times.
BETH
(Stubbornly)
Five.
Dan waves his hand.
DAN
Whatever.
BETH
I'm just worried about Dad. I just
want to get there.
Dan's smile fades.
DAN
(quietly)
Yeah. Me, too.
Melissa looks up.
MELISSA
Worrying... and arguing won't get
us there faster.
BETH
You're right.
Dan takes Melissa's hand and turns toward the window.
Ryan and Megan sit side by side. They whisper to each other.
MEGAN
Aunt Beth?
BETH
(distracted)
Hmmm?
MEGAN
Mom says you're a "lobbyist"
Beth smiles slightly.
BETH
That's right.
RYAN
What's a lobbyist?
Dan turns from the window.
DAN
Someone who gets paid to convince
the government to do what's in her
bosses' best interests.
BETH
That's not exactly...
MEGAN
Are you a good lobbyist?
Beth smiles.
BETH
Pretty good.
RYAN
Then why can't you convince Dad?
Dan laughs.
DAN
No one can convince your old Dad.
Melissa looks at him. Arches an eyebrow.
MELISSA
No one?
DAN
Well...
The twins giggle. Steve claps Dan on the back. Even Beth
smiles a little.
Dan slowly shakes his head.
Melissa smiles triumphantly and returns to her magazine.
Steve looks up at the departures board:
INSERT – DEPARTURES BOARD
AMERIAIR — DES MOINES ..... 6:30 AM ..... GATE 46 ..... ON
TIME
It flickers.
AMERIAIR — DES MOINES ..... 6:30 AM ..... GATE 46 .....
DELAYED
BACK TO SCENE
Steve sighs.
STEVE
Flight's delayed. I'm going to get
some coffee. Beth?
BETH
No, thanks.
Steve walks over to a coffee kiosk.
Ryan and Megan whisper to each other. Megan giggles and
nudges Ryan sharply.
RYAN
Aunt Beth?
BETH
Yes, Ryan?
RYAN
Are you one of the people Dad talks
about on his podcast?
BETH
Probably.
MEGAN
Dad says they're idiots.
Dan's head swivels toward the twins.
RYAN
Well, you did!
Beth glares at Dan.
DAN
Well, not you, personally. Just...
BETH
I get it, Dan.
Uncomfortable silence. Ryan and Megan return to the magazine,
still giggling.
Katie and Tyler remain lost in their own worlds.
Steve returns, carrying a coffee cup. He lifts the lid
slightly and blows on the contents.
He looks up at the departures board:
INSERT BOARD:
AMERIAIR — DES MOINES ..... 6:30 AM ..... GATE 46 .....
CANCELLED
P.A. (V.O.)
Attention passengers. Flight 882 to
Des Moines has been cancelled until
further notice.
The adults all look at the board.
STEVE
I'll see what's going on.
Steve walks over to the boarding desk. A FLIGHT ATTENDANT
stands behind it. He smiles brightly.
FLIGHT ATTENDANT
Good morning, sir. Were you
planning on flying to Des Moines?
STEVE
Yes. What's going on?
FLIGHT ATTENDANT
Unfortunately, all flights into Des
Moines have been rerouted, and no
further flights will be allowed in
for the foreseeable future.
STEVE
What happened?
FLIGHT ATTENDANT
A small problem with the tarmac,
sir.
STEVE
We need to get there as soon as
possible! My wife's dad is dying.
The Flight Attendant's smile falters a little. He leans
forward.
FLIGHT ATTENDANT
(quietly)
I'll level with you, sir. The
tarmac has collapsed into an old
Cold War bomb shelter underneath.
STEVE
What?
FLIGHT ATTENDANT
There's a 737 in a huge sinkhole.
It's gonna be several days before
they can get it sorted out.
He types into his computer terminal.
FLIGHT ATTENDANT (CONT'D)
I can get you in to Cedar Rapids or
Omaha, and you could drive the
rest...
He leans in toward the screen.
FLIGHT ATTENDANT (CONT'D)
I have a flight to Omaha at 7:00
PM...
...Monday
STEVE
That's two days!
FLIGHT ATTENDANT
Yes, Sir. If you are going to Des
Moines, you might want to rent a
car, instead.
STEVE
(sighs)
Thank you.
FLIGHT ATTENDANT
Anytime, Sir!
Steve walks back to the group.
Beth, Dan and Melissa all watch him. Tyler and Katie have
removed their earphones and watch attentively. Megan and Ryan
also look at Steve.
STEVE
So... The airport apparently
collapsed. There are no other
flights for a couple of days.
BETH
So what do we do?
STEVE
We're going to have to drive. It
doesn't make sense to go home for
the car. I think we should just
rent one.
Dan pulls out his phone and scrolls.
DAN
Melissa, there aren't enough
charging places between here and
Eternity. Our EV won't make it.
STEVE
You coming with me for a rental
then?
DAN
No, I have a friend that owes me a
favor...
MELISSA
Who?
DAN
Milo...
MELISSA
Your producer?
Dan nods.
DAN
He'll get us there.
STEVE
All right then.
To his family.
STEVE (CONT'D)
Let's go to the rental desk
To Dan's family.
STEVE (CONT'D)
See you in Eternity.
Steve starts walking through the terminal. Beth and the kids
follow with their suitcases behind them.
Dan begins to dial his phone.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
5 -
The Rental Counter
INT. CAR RENTAL DESK - LATER
Steve, Beth and the kids approach the car rental desk. A sign
reads Universal Car Rentals. A young CLERK stands behind the
desk. She smiles as Steve approaches.
CLERK
Good morning and welcome to
Universal. What can I do for you
today?
STEVE
We need to rent a car to take to
Iowa.
CLERK
Of course.
She types into her keyboard.
CLERK (CONT'D)
I have a few vehicles available.
Would you prefer a compact,
convertible or SUV?
TYLER
Get the convertible, Dad!
KATIE
No way!
She gives Tyler a playful shove.
KATIE (CONT'D)
My hair!
BETH
We better go with the SUV, Steve.
I don't think we'll get everything
in a compact.
CLERK
Wonderful!
How Long will you need the vehicle?
STEVE
I'm really not sure...
CLERK
No problem, Sir. We can set it for
a week for now. If you will be
needing it for longer, you can
request an extension on our app...
A beat
CLERK (CONT'D)
Or you can call our toll-free
number.
STEVE
That'll be fine.
CLERK
Insurance?
STEVE
I don't think we will need that.
CLERK
Its great peace of mind, Sir. It
will cover you in the event of any
damage. Accidents and that sort of
thing.
STEVE
No, thanks.
CLERK
It will also provide you with
protection for theft, lost keys,
mechanical issues...
STEVE
We'll be fine.
CLERK
Very well.
She keys into her keyboard.
CLERK (CONT'D)
One SUV for one week... unlimited
mileage... fuel tax...
transportation tax...
Beth shakes her head.
BETH
Always the taxes.
CLERK
All told, that will be 1,523
dollars. And 65 cents.
STEVE
What?!
CLERK
It is a premium vehicle, Sir.
BETH
Just take it, Steve.
CLERK
Thank you, Ma-am.
(to Steve)
Will that be on a card?
Steve pulls his credit card from his wallet. He hands it to
the clerk.
CLERK (CONT'D)
I will just need a copy of this, as
well as Driver's License for anyone
who will be driving.
Beth fishes in her purse for her Driver's License and hands
it to Steve. Steve hands both to the clerk.
STEVE
Just my wife and I.
CLERK
Very good, Sir. Please excuse me.
She steps away to make copies.
Steve turns to Beth.
STEVE
Can you believe that? 1500 dollars
for a rental car! That's highway
robbery!
Tyler snickers.
TYLER
Funny, Dad. "Highway" robbery!
Katie punches him lightly in the shoulder.
The clerk returns. She hands Steve back the cards and slides
the rental agreement across the counter.
Steve signs and hands Beth's license back to her.
The clerk hands Steve a key.
CLERK
The vehicle will be brought around
to the exit door there.
She motions to a nearby door.
CLERK (CONT'D)
Safe travels!
Steve mumbles a thank you. He leads the family to the door.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
6 -
A Lot of Machine
EXT. DULLES AIRPORT TERMINAL - CONTINUOUS
Steve and the family exit the terminal and stand on the
sidewalk. Slow moving traffic, taxis, buses and cars amble by
on the roadway.
A monstrous black HUMMER SUV pulls up to the curb in front of
them.
The DRIVER steps out and walks to the sidewalk.
DRIVER
Miller?
STEVE
That's us...
The driver hands him a set of keys.
DRIVER
Here ya go. Be careful with it.
KATIE
Is that our car?
TYLER
Awesome!
He runs to the Hummer and opens the door, peering in.
BETH
Steve...
STEVE
She said it was premium.
Beth sighs.
BETH
Well... I guess it has enough
space.
STEVE
Alright. Let's load up and everyone
in.
The driver opens the back hatch, and Steve begins to load the
suitcases into the cavernous interior.
Katie and Tyler crawl into the back seat and Beth pulls
herself into the passenger seat with the help of a grab
handle.
Steve walks around to the driver's seat and pulls himself in
as well.
DRIVER
Drive safe, folks. Be careful -
that's a lot of machine.
STEVE
Thanks. I think I can handle it.
The engine ROARS to life and Steve maneuvers it into the
stream of slow-moving traffic while the driver waves from the
sidewalk.
DRIVER
(to himself)
A lot of machine.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
7 -
The Rabbit and the Roadside Rescue
EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY
The Hummer cruises down the highway, filling the lane.
A sign:
"Leaving The District of Columbia"
INT. HUMMER - CONTINUOUS
Steve and Beth sit quietly in the front seats. Behind them,
Katie bobs her head to the music in her ear buds and stares
idly out the window. Tyler plays his video game, his enormous
headphones in place.
Steve looks down at the screen in the dash.
STEVE
Well, at least we have GPS.
He touches the screen to navigate to Eternity.
BETH
Steve, let me do that. You need to
watch the road.
She reaches over and starts to input the address for her
family home in Eternity.
STEVE
Shouldn't we go straight to the
hospital?
BETH
You're probably right.
She plots the address for Eternity Regional Hospital while
Steve half watches her and the road.
Through the window, Katie sees a rabbit hop into the road
from under a barrier to the right.
Suddenly-
KATIE
Dad! Watch out!
Surprised, Steve jerks the wheel to the left with a screech
of tires. He overcorrects. The Hummer SLAMS into the concrete
barrier. Sparks shower across the pavement as metal GRINDS
against concrete.
Ahead a speed limit sign sits at the end of the barrier. The
Hummer drives over it with a rattle as it scrapes the
underside.
Steve slams on the brakes and the vehicle comes to a stop.
Smoke wafts from the tires.
STEVE
Is everyone okay?!
Katie, wide-eyed, nods.
Tyler removes his headphones.
Behind them, the rabbit sits watching, ears perked. It turns
and hops back under the barrier.
EXT. HIGHWAY - MOMENTS LATER
Steve and Beth stand beside the Hummer. They squat down to
look underneath it. The speed limit sign is wedged underneath
it twisted around the driveshaft.
STEVE
Damn it!
BETH
Can you fix it?
Steve reaches under and gives the sign a hard tug. Nothing.
STEVE
Not here.
Tyler walks to the passenger side of the vehicle and sees the
large scrape down the side, steel exposed.
TYLER
Should've got the insurance, huh,
Dad?
Steve glares at him.
TYLER (CONT'D)
What?
Steve pulls out his phone.
STEVE
I'll get some help.
INSERT PHONE SCREEN
No bars.
BACK TO SCENE
STEVE (CONT'D)
No Service.
A beat.
Anyone else?
BETH
Let me see...
She pulls out her phone.
BETH (CONT'D)
Nothing.
KATIE
Me, either.
TYLER
My game still works.
Katie gives him a light push.
KATIE
Not helping.
Steve looks ahead at the highway, then back the way they
came. He has no idea which way to go. In the distance behind
them, a vehicle crests a small hill, driving towards them.
BETH
Can we flag them down? Maybe they
can give you a ride to the next
town.
TYLER
Maybe it's a serial killer!
Beth glares at him and his smile fades.
The vehicle gets closer - a large, ancient motorhome.
Steve steps toward the road and waves his hand in the air.
It slows.
Pulls over.
The engine idles. Rough and loud.
Steve and Beth look at each other.
The passenger door opens.
Dan steps out.
DAN
Everyone okay?
BETH
Dan?
KATIE
Uncle Dan!
DAN
Hey kids!
Tyler looks at the RV up and down, front to back.
TYLER
Cool!
Is this yours?
DAN
Belongs to my friend Milo.
He bends down and looks under the SUV.
DAN (CONT'D)
Doesn't look like you're going
anywhere soon.
Steve shakes his head.
STEVE
No cell service either.
The driver side door of the motorhome opens and slams shut
with a thunk. From around the front, MILO (26) appears.
Tall and thin, Milo wears leather sandals and worn cargo
shorts. A Hawaiian shirt is open to his belly. Long blonde
hair tied back into a ponytail. He sports several days'
growth of sparse facial hair.
He looks at the broken SUV.
MILO
Hey, far out, Man.
Beth looks at him and blinks.
DAN
Milo, this is my sister, Beth and
her family.
Beth gives a small pained smile.
MILO
THE sister?
DAN
The only one.
MILO
Hey, any fam of Dan's is my fam,
too.
(MORE)
MILO (CONT'D)
Why don't ya all come on board and
we'll get you to some civ-il-i-
zation.
DAN
It's okay Beth. Milo is a good guy.
He's taking us to Iowa.
A beat.
DAN (CONT'D)
You're welcome to join.
TYLER
All right!
BETH
Dan, I don't know...
STEVE
Beth... it beats walking.
Beth sighs.
BETH
Okay. Thank you, Milo.
MILO
You betcha.
Tyler scrambles up the steps into the motorhome. Katie looks
at the rusty hulking vehicle with disgust, then climbs in.
Beth and Steve look each other. Beth shrugs and climbs the
stairs.
Steve opens the back of the SUV and removes the bags. Dan
helps him stow them in an outside storage compartment on the
RV.
He climbs the stairs with Dan behind him.
The door shuts with a squeal as Milo returns to the driver's
seat.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
8 -
The Turtle-Home Road Trip
INT. MOTORHOME - CONTINUOUS
Melissa and the twins sit on a patched brown Naugahyde sofa.
A small scarred dinette set is across from them. At the back
of the motorhome, an open accordion door reveals an unmade
bed.
A second bare mattress sits in an alcove above the cab of the
motorhome. A small ladder leads to it.
A small kitchenette is beside the dinette - a mini
refrigerator and small two-burner stove. The sink is filled
with dishes.
Melissa reads a magazine, while the twins play rock-paper
scissors.
Each time they play, they throw the same shape.
They look at the Miller family as they enter the motorhome.
Melissa gives a welcoming smile.
MELISSA
Hi, Strangers!
KATIE
Hi Aunt Liss!
Tyler takes in the interior.
TYLER
This is so cool!
Beth looks around distastefully.
BETH
Hello, Melissa... kids.
Ryan and Megan look up and wave.
RYAN AND MEGAN
(in unison)
Hi Aunt Beth. Hi Uncle Steve.
Steve waves. He turns to Dan.
STEVE
You're riding in this all the way
to Iowa?
DAN
You got it. We can get some rest
while we're travelling.
He smiles wide.
DAN (CONT'D)
All the comforts of home
MILO
That's right. Mi casa is su casa.
BETH
(quietly)
Does Milo actually live here?
MILO
Sure do. I'm like a turtle -
always got my shell.
He chuckles at his own joke.
DAN
(quietly)
Beth, Milo is putting himself out.
Once I told him about Mom's call,
he offered to take us there
himself.
MILO
Happy to take on a few more, too.
STEVE
He doesn't miss much, does he?
Milo chuckles again.
BETH
Just until the next town. We will
arrange another car from there.
MILO
Suit yourself.
He fires up the motorhome. It sputters, groans, and finally
catches with a sudden backfire.
Everyone jumps. Beth looks at Steve, alarmed. He takes her
hand.
MILO (CONT'D)
Might want to set yourselves down.
The Millers all take a seat at the dinette. Dan climbs into
the passenger seat and belts himself in.
Milo puts the RV into gear, and pulls slowly onto the
highway.
MILO (CONT'D)
We're off like a whole herd of
turtles.
EXT. HIGHWAY - CONTINUOUS
The motorhome chugs down the highway, trailing a cloud of
blue exhaust.
INT. MOTORHOME - DAY
The Millers sit at the dinette.
Katie leans back against the wall with her eyes closed. Her
earbuds in her ears.
Tyler continuously scans the interior of the motorhome.
Beth has her phone in hand watching for service to come back.
She looks over at Melissa.
BETH
Do you know if Mom knows we're on
our way?
MELISSA
Dan tried to call a few times.
Before we lost service. Left a
message on her machine.
DAN
I wish she would get herself a cell
phone.
BETH
I gave her one for Christmas a
couple years ago.
She couldn't figure out how to use
it. It just sits on a shelf.
DAN
That sounds like Mom.
STEVE
She's probably still at the
hospital.
Beth sighs.
BETH
Most likely.
Hopefully she will get the
messages... otherwise we will see
her soon.
MILO
I figure about 18 hours until we
get there. Plus a couple of stops.
STEVE
I thought it was about 15...
MILO
Maybe in a fancy S.U.V. Shelly here
can only go about 45.
On a good day.
BETH
When we stop, we'll see about
renting another car.
She looks up.
BETH (CONT'D)
Oh! I have bars.
Steve looks at his phone.
STEVE
Me, too.
Why don't you try your Mom again. I
need to call the rental company.
He gets up from the dinette and walks to the bedroom in the
back. He closes the accordion door.
Beth finds Mom in her contacts. She calls.
PHONE (V.O.)
Ring...
Ring...
Ring...
The answering machine picks up.
CAROL (V.O.)
Hello. You've reached Carol...
BOB (V.O.)
And Bob.
CAROL (V.O.)
Please leave a message after the
beep.
A beat.
CAROL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
How do I make it beep?
BOB (V.O.)
It will do it itself just hang...
PHONE (V.O.)
BEEP.
BETH
Hi, Mom. It's me. Just checking in.
We're on our way. Call me. Love
you.
She presses end. She sits back and closer her eyes.
MELISSA
Still the machine?
Beth opens her eyes
BETH
Yes.
I wish I could talk to her.
MELISSA
Dan tried calling the hospital,
too. They wouldn't tell him
anything.
BETH
Figures.
The accordion door opens and Steve comes back to the dinette.
STEVE
I talked to the rental company.
They will get the SUV towed.
A beat.
STEVE (CONT'D)
They asked me about the
insurance...
Once they get the quote on repairs
they'll let me know. Probably just
put it on the card.
BETH
It's okay, Honey.
RYAN
What happened to your SUV, Uncle
Steve?
STEVE
Just a little accident is all.
DAN
Hey, Steve. You guys must be tired.
Why don't you go lay down. Get some
rest.
Beth looks at the bed in the back.
BETH
I'm okay.
STEVE
Yeah, that might be a good idea.
MILO
There's another set of sheets back
there somewhere.
STEVE
Thanks, Milo.
He gets up and returns through the accordion door to the
bedroom.
Dan unbuckles and comes to the back of the RV.
DAN
Hey, Tyler. How would you like to
ride shotgun for a little bit?
TYLER
Cool! Can I, Mom?
Beth pauses then gives a little nod.
Tyler goes to the front and buckles into the passenger seat.
MILO
Hey there, little man. Ready to co-
pilot this beast?
TYLER
All right!
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
9 -
The Distance Between Us
Dan sits at the dinette across from Beth.
DAN
Beth, we will make it in time.
BETH
I know. It's just...
She looks out the window.
BETH (CONT'D)
I haven't been a very good
daughter.
DAN
Why do you say that?
BETH
I should have made more of an
effort. I know they don't like
coming to the "big city".
DAN
You made the decision to come out
here. They support you on that.
BETH
I'm just not small town...
DAN
You went to college. That's great.
BETH
But I shouldn't have cut everyone
off.
Dan sighs.
DAN
Beth, you never really fit in in
Eternity. No one was surprised that
you didn't come back.
Beth dabs her eyes with a tissue.
DAN (CONT'D)
But you're right. You shouldn't
have cut everyone off.
She looks at him.
DAN (CONT'D)
Mom and Dad... They miss you. I
miss you.
BETH
I try to take time...
DAN
You have the kids. Steve.
I'm grateful we can get together...
sometimes.
A beat.
DAN (CONT'D)
I just wish you could be there when
we do.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
10 -
The Endless Tie
INT. MOTORHOME - LATER
Steve rides in the cab beside Milo having had a little rest.
The accordion door is closed.
A loud humming sound as the toilet in the onboard lavatory
flushes and the water pump runs.
Dan exits wiping his hands on a paper towel.
Katie sits at the dinette, her head against the window -
asleep.
The twins are on the sofa playing rock-paper-scissors. Tyler
watches as they match each other's shapes again and again.
TYLER
Uh. Who's winning.
RYAN
It's a tie.
MEGAN
0 to 0
TYLER
If no one's winning, why do you
keep playing?
MEGAN
Sometime, Ryan will mess up.
RYAN
No! You will!
Tyler shakes his head. He puts on his headphones and picks up
his video game.
Dan sits at the dinette with Beth.
BETH
Melissa asleep?
DAN
Yeah. Early morning for all of us.
INSERT WINDSHIELD
A road sign: "Welcome to Elwood City"
STEVE
Hey, gang. Elwood City just ahead!
MEGAN
Where's that?
STEVE
Pennsylvania.
MILO
What say we stop for some gas n'
grub?
BETH
Do they have a rental place?
Steve pulls out his phone.
STEVE
They do.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
11 -
A Favor for a Friend
EXT. GAS STATION/DINER - DAY
The RV pulls up to the pumps at a small run-down gas station
and diner. A sign proclaims "Best burgers in PA"
Down the block, a building has a sign for "A1 Car Rentals" A
small, gated parking area has several cars available.
One by one, everyone leaves the motorhome.
Steve stretches his arms and back, then moves to the storage
area.
Beth steps down shielding her face from the dust. Dan follows
shortly behind.
Melissa walks down the steps slowly, rubbing the lingering
sleep from her eyes.
Katie exits next, shielding her eyes from the afternoon sun.
Tyler bonds down the stairs, eager to get a bite to eat.
The twins slowly descend to the asphalt. They look tired.
Finally, Milo steps down. He walks to the pump to start the
fill.
BETH
Milo, I want to thank you for
getting us this far. We can rent a
car from here.
She digs into her purse and brings out a handful bills.
BETH (CONT'D)
Please take this for the gas.
Milo looks slightly offended.
MILO
I don't need that. Can't say that
you all used any more gas than I
was burnin' anyway.
Beth stands with her hand outstretched, holding the money.
MILO (CONT'D)
I appreciate the thought though.
Beth doesn't move.
BETH
Please, Milo.
I don't expect free rides.
MILO
No a free ride. Just a favor... for
a friend.
Beth lets that sink in. She withdraws her hand and returns
the cash to her purse.
BETH
Thank you, Milo.
Milo grins and tips an imaginary hat.
Steve approaches carrying two suitcases.
STEVE
Tyler... Katie... you go get your
bags and we will go get a vehicle.
TYLER
But Dad... I'm starving!
STEVE
We'll get the vehicle and then get
some lunch for the road. I think
we've already wasted enough time.
Steve sets down the suitcases and walks to Milo.
STEVE (CONT'D)
Thank you for rescuing us back
there.
MILO
Hey, Man. Dan's who spotted you. He
asked me to stop so I stopped.
STEVE
You didn't need to, though.
Milo waves his hand as if swatting away a fly.
MILO
Not about need. Helping someone
else... that's what people do.
Steve nods.
STEVE
Well... thank you.
Milo's face reacts with a bright grin.
The Miller family walks toward the rental office, waving and
shouting their goodbyes.
EXT. GAS STATION/DINER - LATER
Dan leaves the diner area carrying three paper bags, already
showing the grease from the food inside.
Milo replaces the gas nozzle and caps the tank.
MILO
All aboard!
The Jacobsen family follows him onto the motorhome. The beast
fires up with a cloud of blue exhaust and several small
backfires.
The RV lumbers out of the gas station parking lot and picks
up speed on the highway.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
12 -
The Long Way Home
INT. MOTORHOME CAB - LATER
A few miles down the road. Dan sits next to Milo in the cab.
He wipes the remaining grease from his fingers with a stained
napkin.
His phone rings. He glances at it and lifts it to his ear.
DAN
Hello?
Hey, Steve.
Dan listens to the other side of the conversation.
DAN (CONT'D)
What happened?
(listening)
How long?
(listening)
Yeah, okay. No problem.
Dan presses end.
DAN (CONT'D)
Milo...
(a beat)
We have to go back.
Milo glances at him.
MILO
Back?
DAN
To the gas station.
MILO
Say no more.
EXT. HIGHWAY - CONTINUOUS
The ancient motorhome completes an 11-point turn between the
shoulders of the narrow highway. With each maneuver the
tailpipe puffs out blue exhaust.
It accelerates, returning back the way it came.
EXT. GAS STATION/DINER - LATER
The miller family waits at the side of the road. Beth sits on
her suitcase. Tyler takes a bite of a double cheeseburger,
while Katie gingerly brings fries to her mouth.
The RV brakes to a squealing stop in front of them.
INT. MOTORHOME - CONTINUOUS
The Miller family boards the RV again. Steve looks sheepish
and Beth embarrassed.
DAN
Steve? What happened?
STEVE
(mumbles)
I don't want to talk about it.
TYLER
(overly happy)
Dad was blacklisted!
BETH
(warning)
Tyler...
TYLER
He was flagged on some sort of
rental pipeline.
The lady at the counter said no one
will rent him a vehicle until the
repairs to the SUV are done.
Dan hides a smile.
DAN
That's "Big Auto" for you.
Beth glares at him.
STEVE
So, Milo...
Do you mind if we go all the way
with you?
MILO
No problemo, my man. More the
merrier!
Everyone settles in. The motorhome does a wide loop and
continues on to Eternity.
INT. MOTORHOME - LATER
The tinny radio plays an oldies station. Milo moves his head
in the rhythm of the music. Tyler rides shotgun. His video
game is forgotten as he watches the highway move under the
large vehicle.
He glances periodically at Milo.
TYLER
You like this music, Milo?
MILO
For sure, Little Dude.
This is the soundtrack for the
simple life.
Tyler listens for a beat.
TYLER
Yeah. It's not bad.
In the back, Katie sits at the dinette. Her earbuds are in as
she listens to her own music. She works on a crossword puzzle
in front of her. Steve sits across from her scrolling through
emails on his phone.
Dan and the twins are in the bunk above the cab, quietly
playing a game.
Beth and Melissa sit together on the small sofa. An
uncomfortable silence. Melissa absently flips through a
magazine. Beth scrolls through her phone, looking at family
pictures.
Melissa sets down her magazine.
MELISSA
Beth... how are you holding up?
Beth looks at her, slightly surprised.
BETH
I'm fine... well... you know.
Melissa studies her for a moment.
MELISSA
They are proud of you, you know.
BETH
What?
MELISSA
Your mom and dad. They're very
proud of you.
Beth is silent.
MELISSA (CONT'D)
When we visit, they talk about what
you do and what you've
accomplished.
BETH
I should have gone back more often.
MELISSA
Maybe...
Beth looks away.
MELISSA (CONT'D)
But your parents never wanted you
to grow up to be them.
They wanted you to become... you.
BETH
I feel like I pushed them away...
and Dan.
A beat.
BETH (CONT'D)
We grew up the same. I don't know
how Dan and I became so different.
MELISSA
You didn't.
Beth looks at her
MELISSA (CONT'D)
You are both incredibly stubborn.
Neither one of you wants to give up
control.
Beth scoffs
BETH
Dan doesn't control anything.
MELISSA
He has a podcast. He influences
many people.
You both just chose different ways
to fight for what you believe.
Beth considers this.
MELISSA (CONT'D)
I studied political science at
Georgetown, Beth.
(MORE)
MELISSA (CONT'D)
A lot of political conflict comes
down to power. Who gets it. Who
keeps it. Who gives it up.
A beat.
MELISSA (CONT'D)
But families aren't governments.
You don't have to win.
Beth sits back against the sofa and lets that sink in.
Melissa picks up her magazine.
BETH
Georgetown?
MELISSA
Cum Laude.
BETH
I never knew.
Melissa smiles slightly without looking up.
MELISSA
You never asked.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
13 -
The 45 MPH Stop
INT. MOTORHOME CAB - EVENING
Milo and Steve sit in the cab. The day is fading to dusk.
Milo stares straight ahead while Steve naps against the side
window.
EXT. HIGHWAY - CONTINUOUS
The motorhome lumbers down the interstate and passes a sign:
"I-90".
From behind a sign, a police car pulls out behind them. The
blue and red lights begin to flash and the siren sounds a
WHOOP.
INT. MOTORHOME CAB - CONTINUOUS
The Police car's emergency lights strobe in Milo's side
mirror.
MILO
Uh-oh.
Steve comes fully alert.
STEVE
Milo? What is it?
MILO
5-0 is behind us.
STEVE
What did you do?
MILO
Nothin', Man.
Sometimes they give me a hassle.
Milo pulls to the side of the road.
EXT. HIGHWAY - CONTINUOUS
A POLICE OFFICER exits the car and walks toward the driver's
door of the RV. He holds a flashlight and his hand rests on
the butt of his service pistol.
INT. MOTORHOME CAB - CONTINUOUS
The police officer's face appears in the door. He shines his
flashlight on Milo's face.
MILO
Whoa, Dude. That's bright.
The light moves to Steve.
STEVE
Good evening, Officer.
The officer ignores Steve and returns to Milo.
POLICE OFFICER
Sir. Do you know why I stopped you
tonight?
MILO
You want to know where I got the
wheels?
The Police officer just blinks.
POLICE OFFICER
You were going 45 miles per hour.
MILO
Uh-huh.
POLICE OFFICER
The speed limit on this section is
MILO
So I wasn't speeding.
POLICE OFFICER
Driving slowly can create a risk
for other drivers. Can cause a
collision if they don't see you.
QUICK CUT TO EXTERIOR
The large motorhome dwarfs the police car.
BACK TO SCENE
MILO
Don't see me?
The Officer pauses.
POLICE OFFICER
License and registration please.
MILO
Sure officer.
He flips down the visor and retrieves his driver's license.
MILO (CONT'D)
Yo, Steve. Can you get the reg out
of the glove box.
Steve opens up the glove compartment. It is packed full of
miscellaneous debris:
He pulls out maps. Envelopes. Parking tickets.
Then three balled-up socks.
A brown banana.
Finally, a half-eaten sandwich.
Steve begins searching for the document. He pulls out a
handful of papers.
The officer looks at the license and at Milo.
Milo smiles ear to ear as the officer looks at him.
The officer shines the flashlight back toward Steve.
POLICE OFFICER
Registration please, sir.
STEVE
I'm looking...
Finally, in a stack of papers he finds a folding plastic
envelope. He pulls it out and hands it to Milo.
Milo hands it to the officer.
The officer opens it. The inside cover sticks together with
pink bubble gum. It stretches as the officer opens the
envelope. He grimaces.
The officer reads the registration slip and hands the
envelope back to Milo.
POLICE OFFICER
I'm just giving you a warning.
Try to maintain a safe speed.
MILO
I'd love to, officer.
The officer stares at Milo for a beat.
POLICE OFFICER
Drive safely.
He nods at Steve.
POLICE OFFICER (CONT'D)
Sir.
He turns and walks back toward the car.
MILO
Well,let's get back to it.
He looks over his left shoulder and pulls back onto the
highway as the police car drives past.
STEVE
45?
Milo shrugs.
MILO
Shelly is never in much of a hurry.
Steve shakes his head and settles back against the window.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
14 -
Generator Trouble
INT. MOTORHOME - NIGHT
The space is illuminated softly by wall mounted lights. The
accordion door to the bedroom is closed. The twins sit
together on the sofa. They lean against each other, fighting
sleep.
Tyler sits beside them, video game in hand. He pushes back
against Ryan as he slumps against his shoulder.
Katie sits at the table with Beth and Melissa, playing a game
of cards.
Suddenly, the lights go out and the mini-fridge stops its
constant rattle.
Pitch black.
BETH (O.S.)
Huh?
MELISSA (O.S.)
Umm... Milo?
MILO (O.S.)
That darn gen again.
Silence.
The engine sound increases as Milo pulls onto the shoulder.
EXT. MOTORHOME - MOMENTS LATER
Milo and Steve stand in front of the generator compartment.
It is silent. Steve holds a flashlight as Milo examines the
generator.
MILO
Using more power than normal. Just
need to fill it up.
He gets a gas can from the compartment. He opens the fuel
tank on the generator and pours gasoline in.
Dan joins them.
DAN
Everything good?
STEVE
Generator is out of gas. Milo has
it taken care of.
Dan nods.
Milo sets aside the gas can.
MILO
Alright. Let's fire this baby up.
He pushes the start button. The generator chokes and
sputters.
MILO (CONT'D)
Need to prime the carb.
He looks at Dan and Steve.
MILO (CONT'D)
Either of you know anything about
carburetors?
Steve and Dan look at each other and shake their heads.
MILO (CONT'D)
Carburetor's dry.
DAN
Can you fix it?
MILO
Sure.
He produces a piece of plastic tubing.
MILO (CONT'D)
Little gas, little pull-start.
She'll come around.
DAN
I got it.
He reaches over and grabs the cord as Steve holds the
flashlight.
Milo pulls out a small line of plastic tubing. He sticks one
end into the gas can and begins to suck on the other end.
After a moment, he spits out some gas.
MILO
Start pulling.
DAN pulls wildly at the pull start as Milo dribbles gas from
the siphon tube into the carburetor. The generator coughs and
sputters.
MILO (CONT'D)
Keep going.
Dan's shirt has come untucked. His hair falls into his eyes.
Suddenly, the generator coughs and sputters, then catches and
roars to life.
Dan jumps back. The flashlight wavers.
Milo adjusts a knob on the generator and it quiets down to a
loud hum.
MILO (CONT'D)
That'll do it.
He closes the compartment panel.
He looks at Steve and Dan.
MILO (CONT'D)
Anyone got some gum?
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
15 -
All Hands on Deck
INT. MOTORHOME - NIGHT
The overhead lights flick back on with a hum as the generator
steady-rumbles outside.
Dan steps back inside, wiping grease off his forehead with a
paper towel. Steve follows behind him, placing the flashlight
on the dinette.
Beth stands in the middle of the narrow aisle.
BETH
Alright. Now that we're not
stranded in the dark, we need to
sort out sleeping arrangements.
She looks over at the sofa. Ryan and Megan are slumped
together, fast asleep. Tyler leans away from them, trying to
play his video game around their heads.
BETH (CONT'D)
Melissa, Dan. You take the bedroom
in the back.
MELISSA
Are you sure, Beth?
BETH
Dan made the arrangements to get us
this far. Seems fair.
MELISSA
(smiling warmly)
Alright. Thank you, Beth.
BETH
Katie, Tyler, twins—you guys take
the bunk above the cab.
Katie's head snaps up from her phone.
KATIE
All four of us? Up there?
BETH
There's plenty of room if you line
up.
STEVE
Up you go, guys.
Tyler climbs up the ladder first, carrying his game. Katie
rolls her eyes, takes off her shoes, and climbs up after him.
Dan gently lifts Ryan, then Megan, handing them up to Katie
and Tyler, who pull them onto the mattress.
KATIE (O.S.)
If anyone kicks me, I'm sleeping on
the floor.
BETH
You'll be fine.
Beth turns to the sofa. She grabs the front handle and pulls.
It gives a loud metallic groan as it folds out into a bed,
taking up most of the aisle.
STEVE
Looks... comfy.
BETH
It gets us to morning.
Melissa slides open the accordion door to the back room,
looking back at Beth and Steve.
MELISSA
Goodnight, everyone.
BETH
Goodnight, Melissa.
Melissa steps inside and slides the door shut.
Steve tosses two thin pillows onto the hide-a-bed and climbs
in. The springs squeak loudly under his weight. He winces.
Beth climbs in beside him and pulls up the threadbare
blanket. Steve reaches over and switches off the main light,
plunging the cabin into dim shadow.
DAN
I'm going to keep Milo company for
a little bit.
He moves into the cab and settles into the passenger seat.
A beat.
STEVE
(whispering)
I can feel every single spring in
this mattress.
BETH
(whispering back)
Just go to sleep, Steve.
STEVE
Goodnight, honey.
BETH
Goodnight.
INT. MOTORHOME CAB - CONTINUOUS
Milo drives steadily down the dark interstate. Occasional
oncoming headlights light up the cab.
Dan sits beside him, looking at an unfolded map.
Milo removes his gum and reaches it toward Dan.
MILO
Hey Dan-o. Keep this safe for me,
will ya?
Dan gingerly takes the gum. He wraps it in a scrap paper and
places it in a cup holder.
His attention returns to the map.
DAN
We need to stay on I-90 through
Illinois.
MILO
(yawning)
Gotcha
On the dash, a yellow light comes on accompanied by a PING.
MILO (CONT'D)
Looks like Shelly's thirsty again.
He yawns. Ahead he sees a TA Travel Center lit up on exit
15B. He maneuvers the RV to the exit ramp.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
16 -
The Wrong Turn
EXT. TA TRAVEL CENTER - NIGHT
Milo stands at the pump of a large truck stop pumping gas
into Shelly. A huge tractor-trailer pulls up to the diesel
pumps next to him. Milo looks at it appreciatively.
Dan walks over to the RV carrying a grocery bag from the
truck stop and balancing two cups of coffee.
DAN
I got some food for when everyone
wakes up.
MILO
(yawning)
Groovy.
Dan looks at Milo.
DAN
Hey Milo. Should I drive for a bit.
You look pretty tired.
Milo absently rubs at his sparse whiskers.
MILO
I prob'ly could use a few zees.
Think you can handle Shelly?
DAN
Sure.
MILO
I'll just rest my eyes up front. If
you need something.
He finishes fueling and replaces the pump nozzle. He climbs
in the passenger side. Dan walks to get in behind the wheel.
INT. MOTORHOME CAB - LATER
Milo sits in the passenger seat. A folded woven sweater
serves as a pillow between him and the door window. He snores
loudly.
Dan sits behind the wheel. He takes a sip of coffee and
grimaces.
He reaches for the roadmap and unfolds it. He looks for his
route while keeping his eyes on the road.
As he looks down, the RV passes a large road sign:
"Welcome to Wisconsin. The Badger State".
He looks up again as they pass the sign.
EXT. HIGHWAY - NIGHT
The RV lumbers down the highway.
INT. MOTORHOME CAB - NIGHT
The clock on the dash reads 3:14. Ahead a highway sign is
illuminated by the headlights"
"Madison 10"
DAN
Oh no!
Dan releases the accelerator and grips the steering wheel. He
pulls over to the shoulder.
BETH (O.S.) TYLER(O.S.)
What happened? Hey!
KATIE (O.S.)
Are we there?
Milo sits up. He looks at the sign with Dan.
MILO
Madison?
DAN
Yeah.
MILO
That's in Wisconsin.
DAN
I know.
MILO
We're going to Iowa.
DAN
I know that, too.
MILO
That's a different state.
Dan glares at him and picks up the roadmap.
INT. MOTORHOME CAB - DAWN
Milo drives the RV confidently. The map is folded up on the
dash. Dan sits in the passenger seat. Arms crossed, staring
directly ahead. The dash clock reads "7:10".
Steve pokes his head into the cab.
STEVE
Hey guys. Where are we?
MILO
Cedar Rapids just ahead.
STEVE
That's Cedar Rapids, Iowa, right?
Dan glares at him.
Steve chuckles softly.
STEVE (CONT'D)
Just kidding.
A beat.
STEVE (CONT'D)
Just wanted to let you know that
the girls are getting some food
going.
A beat.
STEVE (CONT'D)
If you're hungry.
MILO
Starving!
DAN
Sounds good.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
17 -
Motorhome Morning Feast
INT. MOTORHOME - CONTINUOUS
Beth and Melissa are in the kitchen. Beth stirs eggs in a pan
on the small stovetop. Melissa stands beside her cutting
fruit into small pieces.
The sofa bed is folded up. Tyler sits between the twins
playing his video game. The video game makes a dejected
sound. Tyler passes it to Ryan.
TYLER
Okay. Your turn.
RYAN concentrates on the game. His whole body moves as he
works the controls.
On the corner of the counter, toast pops up in a toaster.
Katie lies on the top bunk, looking over the edge.
KATIE
That smells great, Mom.
Beth smiles and looks at her.
BETH
Thanks, Sweetheart.
Tyler smirks.
TYLER
Better than home.
Beth laughs lightly.
BETH
Keep that up and it's cold cereal
for you!
TYLER
So... the usual.
Melissa catches Beth's eye and laughs quietly.
She watches Beth work the eggs in the skillet. Adding some
peppers and onions.
MELISSA
You do know your way around a
kitchen.
BETH
Mom taught me.
Beth scrambles the eggs.
BETH (CONT'D)
She always said that's what a farm
woman - any woman - should know.
Melissa looks at her.
BETH (CONT'D)
As usual, she was right.
Melissa slips an arm around Beth's shoulders.
Beth leans into her for a moment.
They finish preparing breakfast.
INT. MOTORHOME - LATER
The Jacobsen family sits at the dinette while Beth, Tyler and
Katie sit on the sofa. Steve leans against the counter. They
eat a large breakfast spread.
Scrambled eggs.
Toast.
Sausages.
Fruit.
In the cab, Milo takes a bite of the same foods in sandwich
form.
RYAN
This is great, Mom!
MEGAN
And Aunt Beth.
The families continue to eat. Their talking drowned out by
the vehicle on the highway.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
18 -
Corn Daze Chaos
INT. MOTORHOME CAB - MORNING
Milo drives. He moves his head to the rhythm of the oldies
coming from the tinny radio.
Katie sits beside him. She listens to the music and looks at
Milo.
KATIE
Who is this again?
MILO
That's the Beatles, little lady.
Katie listens.
KATIE
I like it.
MILO
Sure. What's not to like.
Through the windshield a sign beside the road proclaims:
"Eternity 10"
Milo shouts back to the passengers.
MILO (CONT'D)
10 miles. Home stretch.
INT. MOTORHOME - CONTINUOUS
The food and dishes have been put away. The twins and Tyler
are up on the over cab, talking softly.
Beth and Dan sit on the sofa. Steve and Melissa are at the
dinette table.
BETH
Almost there!
DAN
See. No trouble.
Beth gives him a playful shove.
STEVE
Been a long trip. Here we are safe
and sound.
BETH
I just hope we're not too late...
DAN
C'mon B. Mom would've called if
something... happened.
Beth takes out her phone and looks at it. No calls.
MELISSA
Beth. You will see you dad soon.
Have a chance to talk to him. And
your mom.
Beth sighs.
BETH
I know.
EXT. ETERNITY MAIN STREET - DAY
The RV drives down the roadway. Above the street a giant
banner is strung across the road.
INSERT BANNER
"Welcome to Eternity Corn Daze"
INT. MOTORHOME - CONTINUOUS
Beth leans into the cab. She pulls back when she sees the
sign.
BETH
I forgot about Corn Daze!
TYLER
What's Corn Daze?
BETH
Every year the town has a big
celebration. For the farmers.
DAN
The whole community gets involved.
There's barbecues, games...
BETH
A parade.
KATIE (O.S.)
Oh no!
Through the windshield, traffic is deadlocked.
EXT. MAIN STREET - CONTINUOUS
The RV sits blocked in by vehicles on all sides.
INT. MOTORHOME - CONTINUOUS
Beth looks aghast at the traffic outside.
BETH
The parade!
She becomes frantic.
BETH (CONT'D)
Traffic may not move for hours!
DAN
It's okay B. We've come this far...
BETH
No! We're here. In Eternity. We
can't be stopped by this!
She rushes to the door.
BETH (CONT'D)
The hospital can't be far. I'm
getting there... now!
STEVE
Beth. Just...
Beth doesn't hear. She throws open the door and climbs out.
Through the window the family watches her run down the
street.
Steve sighs.
STEVE (CONT'D)
...okay.
Steve, Tyler, Katie, and the Jacobsen family leave the
motorhome and chase after Beth through the crowd.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
19 -
Crowd Chaos and a Barefoot Dash
EXT. CROWDED STREET - DAY
Beth rushes through the crowd. She accidently bumps into
people who just look at her and smile.
Girls sit on the shoulders of young men, watching the passing
parade.
She jumps, trying to see over the crowd.
A crowd of people swarms against her pushing her down the
sidewalk.
Katie sees her disappear in a crowd of people.
KATIE
(yelling)
Mom!
Melissa turns around in a circle. Dan and the twins are
nowhere to be seen.
MELISSA
(panicked)
Megan! Ryan!
DAN (O.S.)
Over here!
Melissa runs toward the voice. Evading the throngs of people.
She stops abruptly as a man on stilts passes in front of her.
Dan holds Megan's hand and Ryan by the shirt collar.
Steve weaves his way through the crowd, looking for Beth. A
swarm of bodies separates Katie from him.
Tyler walks calmly through the crowd, staring at the video
game in his hand. The crowd parts letting him through
unhindered.
Beth looks frantically around for her family. She sees Steve
and rushes to him.
BETH
Where are the kids!?
Steve looks around, but can't see them.
In the distance, Katie rises into the air.
ON KATIE
Katie is lifted into the air and onto the shoulders of two
burly farm boys.
She looks all around. In the distance she sees a sign:
KATIE POV
INSERT SIGN
"Eternity Medical Center".
She looks down at the chaos below.
KATIE
There! That's it! Put me down.
Both families look over at Katie and where she's pointing.
They begin to rush in the direction of the medical center.
Tyler continues his calm walk in the same direction.
Katie pats the farm boys on their heads until they gently
lower her to the ground.
She takes off running toward the medical center.
ON BETH
Beth pitches forward while running. She looks down at her
broken heel.
She kicks off both shoes and runs barefoot to the Eternity
Medical Center.
She stands across the Emergency Driveway at the Eternity
Medical Center. She bends slightly, holding her side as she
struggles to catch her breath.
One by one the others arrive. Steve, Dan and Melissa each
pulling a twin by the hand. Katie. Finally, Tyler.
He looks up as he approaches the sign.
TYLER
Found it.
A shadow falls over the group. They all look up as the RV
pulls in front of them. The window opens.
MILO
Need a ride?
Beth stares at his smiling face. Exhausted.
INT. ETERNITY MEDICAL CENTER - CONTINUOUS
The weary family bursts through the Emergency doors and rush
to the nursing desk. A NURSE sits behind it.
Milo casually walks behind them.
BETH
Bob Jacobsen... What room?!
NURSE
308... but you can't...
The family rushes down the hallway.
Milo stops for a moment at the desk. A jar of lollipops sits
on top. He motions to it.
NURSE (CONT'D)
Uh... sure.
Milo smiles and takes a lollipop. He pulls the wrapper off
and pops it into his mouth. He continues casually down the
hallway.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
20 -
The Jell-O Misunderstanding
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - DAY
The door burst open and Beth and Dan enter, followed closely
by their families.
BOB JACOBSEN sits upright in bed. A TV across the room plays
a football game.
The tray over the bed holds three Jell-O cups. Bob holds one
with a spoonful halfway to his mouth.
BETH
Dad!
DAN
Dad?
Bob sets down his spoon and cup.
BOB
Kids! What are you doing here?
BETH
Dad... you were... we thought...
DAN
Dad, Mom said you...
CAROL (O.S.)
Oh!
Beth and Dan turn and see Carol in the doorway. She holds a
cup of tea.
BETH
Mom! What's going on. We thought
Dad was dying.
BOB
What?
CAROL
Oh no.
She looks earnestly at her children.
CAROL (CONT'D)
I rushed dad to the hospital with
pain in his tummy. They rushed him
straight to the Operating Room.
A beat.
CAROL (CONT'D)
The Doctor said he would only "be
with us" for three days.
A beat.
CAROL (CONT'D)
That's when I called you.
Bob looks at Steve.
BOB
(quietly)
Can I die from appendicitis?
Steve puts his hand on Bob's shoulder, reassuringly.
CAROL
After the surgery, the Doctor said
he could go home in three days.
She looks embarrassed.
CAROL (CONT'D)
I misunderstood.
BETH
You could have called when you
found out.
CAROL
I didn't think your phone would
work on the plane.
A beat.
CAROL (CONT'D)
And then... everything happened so
quickly. I forgot.
BETH
Mom!
DAN
It's okay, Mom.
We've been wanting to come for a
visit anyway.
Carol smiles at him.
Beth walks over to her mother. She looks at her for a moment,
then pulls her into a tight embrace.
CAROL
Beth! My tea!
BOB
So... am I dying, or what?
DAN
You'll be just fine, Dad.
Bob smiles and resumes eating his Jell-O.
BOB
Anyone for Jell-O?
Milo comes from behind the family.
MILO
Don't mind if I do.
He takes a Jell-O cup and sits on a chair at the bedside. He
puts his feet up on the bed and begins eating.
Carol and Bob just look at him.
DAN
Mom. Dad. This is Milo. He's the
one that got us here.
Milo chuckles.
MILO
Well Shelly did most of the work.
Carol looks at him confused.
STEVE
Milo's RV - Shelly.
Carol nods as though that makes perfect sense.
BOB
So... you drove all the way here?
Dan looks at Beth.
DAN
Long story.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
21 -
Homecoming
EXT. FARMHOUSE - AFTERNOON
WIDE AERIAL
A small, well-kept farmhouse sits at the end of a dirt
driveway, surrounded by a short picket fence. Behind it a
tall cornfield fades into the distance.
Beside the house, chickens meander around in a small pen,
pecking at the ground.
Nearby, a pigsty encloses a small herd of pigs.
A pickup truck turns off the paved road onto a dusty driveway
leading to the house. The RV follows behind.
The vehicles come to a stop in front of the immaculately kept
home.
The RV chokes and sputters. It lets out a puff of blue
exhaust as the engine turns off.
BACK TO SCENE
Carol climbs out of the driver's door of the pickup. She
circles around and helps Bob out of the passenger seat.
Beth and Dan emerge from the RV. They stop side by side and
stare at their childhood home.
Beth's eyes drift over to an old oak tree next to the
driveway. A tractor tire swings on a thick hemp rope below a
sturdy branch.
Dan notices but doesn't speak.
Steve stands behind Beth and gently places his hand on her
shoulder.
Melissa walks over and stands at Dan's side. She takes his
hand.
Megan and Ryan stand close to Melissa. Megan scrunches up her
face at the distinct smell of manure.
Katie wears her earbuds, listening to music.
Tyler runs past directly toward the house.
With a deep breath, Beth walks toward the front porch of the
house. Steve follows. Dan and Melissa are right behind.
INT. FARMHOUSE - LIVING ROOM - AFTERNOON
A comfortable living room.
Bob sits in a worn recliner. An older TV sits across from him
- tinfoil on the antenna. A football game plays silently on
the screen.
Carol and Beth sit on a floral-patterned couch. Carol has
pulled out her crocheting. Beth holds the yarn.
Katie is perched on the arm, her head bobbing to music only
she hears.
Steve stands at a window, looking out over the vast
cornfield.
Dan and Melissa sit in wooden chairs, facing the others.
Everyone is quiet.
BETH
What are you working on?
CAROL
Nothing really. It passes the time.
BETH
Nothing really changes around here,
does it?
Carol looks at her.
CAROL
Some things do.
Beth looks at Carol, about to ask a question.
Megan and Ryan EXPLODE into the room, running and laughing
loudly. Tyler runs behind.
RYAN
No!
He dives behind the recliner.
Carol looks up from her crocheting and smiles.
Tyler runs up and pats Megan on the arm.
TYLER
You're it!
He runs out of the room with Megan in pursuit, narrowly
missing Milo. He spins, nearly spilling the glass of iced tea
in his hand.
MILO
Whoa!
Ryan runs out behind Megan.
RYAN
Wait for me!
The kids disappear down the hallway. Milo looks after them,
then at the glass in his hand.
He looks at Carol. At Bob.
MILO
Nice place.
Bob glances at him. Smiles. Returns to watching TV.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
22 -
A Dinner of Susie
INT. FARMHOUSE - DINING ROOM - EVENING
The entire group, except for Carol and Beth, sits around a
huge oak dining table.
Carol and Beth enter carrying trays of food:
An enormous platter of corn cobs;
A whole ham;
Three fruit pies.
They place the trays on the table. Beth begins to spread
dishes around while Carol sits down.
Bob stands and begins to carve the ham.
Carol leaps to her feet.
CAROL
Robert! You shouldn't be...
BOB
I'm fine, Dear.
(beat)
I'm not dying, yet.
Carol slowly returns to her seat.
Beth sets the corn down in front of Milo. He immediately
helps himself to a double handful of corn cobs, dripping with
butter.
Beth places the carved ham at the center of the table and
begins to serve it out.
Bob gestures at the ham with his fork.
BOB (CONT'D)
So, who is this then?
CAROL
(casual)
Susie.
TYLER
(excited)
Is this from outside?
BOB
Sure is.
Katie stops with a forkful of ham an inch from her mouth.
She looks at it.
Lowers the fork.
Puts it down.
She picks up a cob of corn.
Tyler takes a huge bite of ham.
Katie watches him chew.
Takes a bite of corn.
Milo sets down a cleaned corn cob. Butter glistens on his
face and fingertips.
He picks up a second cob.
MILO
Never tasted corn this good before.
CAROL
We just brought it in.
Katie eyes the corn.
KATIE
Tell me it didn't have a name.
Bob chuckles.
BOB
Nope.
(a beat)
Watch the pumpkin pie, though.
Carol glares at him.
CAROL
Robert!
(a beat)
He's just teasing, Katherine.
Bob focuses on his food, smiling.
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
23 -
The Harvest
INT. FARMHOUSE - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
The lights are low. The TV is showing the Evening News. A
reporter with perfect hair and teeth happily discusses the
Airport situation.
Bob sits in his recliner. Fast asleep.
From O.S. The sounds of kids running and laughing. Milo
laughing with them.
Carol has resumed crocheting in the soft light. She smiles to
herself.
Dan and Melissa sit in a corner, looking through a photo
album.
Steve and Beth enter, returning from a walk around the farm.
Beth wears Steve's jacket over her shoulders.
Steve removes the jacket and places it on a hook.
Carol looks up.
CAROL
Elizabeth. Have you been showing
Steven around?
BETH
He's seen it before, Mom.
STEVE
And its better every time.
(a beat)
Quiet. Peaceful.
A loud thump from upstairs.
Beth glances toward the hallway.
In the corner:
MELISSA
(laughing)
I can't believe that was you!
DAN
It was my... awkward phase...
BETH
Awkward decade more like.
CAROL
You never really cared what other
people thought, Daniel.
BETH
Good thing!
CAROL
But Elizabeth. Always looking at
the latest fad. Hair. Clothes.
She crochets silently.
CAROL (CONT'D)
(still crocheting)
You two were always so different.
BETH
We still are.
CAROL
(not looking up)
I was always so proud of both of
you.
A beat.
CAROL (CONT'D)
Still am.
She sets down her crocheting.
CAROL (CONT'D)
A funny thing about a farm.
You plant your crops. You watch
them grow.
She looks toward the window. Moonlight glows on stalks of
corn.
CAROL (CONT'D)
When they're ready, you don't keep
them in the ground.
You harvest. They go where they
were meant to go.
She looks at Beth. At Dan.
CAROL (CONT'D)
When it was time, you went where
you needed to go.
She picks her crocheting up.
CAROL (CONT'D)
I knew when you were young that you
would outgrow this field.
I never wanted you to stay here,
getting old. Dried out.
A beat.
CAROL (CONT'D)
But I always want you to remember
where you came from.
Melissa rests her head on Dan's shoulder.
Steve discreetly wipes his teary eyes on his shirt sleeve.
FADE TO BLACK:
FADE IN:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
24 -
The Departure
EXT. FARMHOUSE - MORNING
Everybody is gathered outside, near the RV. The sun glistens
on the morning dew.
Steve has his phone in hand.
STEVE
(quietly)
No Uber...
BETH
Honey, just call a cab. Once we get
into town, we can take the bus from
Eternity to Cedar Rapids and catch
the flight home.
STEVE
The way God intended...
Dan and Melissa approach Bob and Carol.
DAN
Well, I guess it's time to be
heading home.
He hugs both his parents.
Melissa steps up after and does the same.
Followed by the twins.
Milo approaches slowly.
BOB
G'bye Milo.
Milo gathers them both into a huge double armed hug.
CAROL
(smiling)
Oh!
Milo releases them, clears his throat.
MILO
Let's get this show on the road.
He begins walking toward the RV.
TYLER
Shotgun!
He runs over to the passenger door.
Steve looks at Beth.
BETH
Oh, why not. What else could
possibly go wrong.
Beth hugs Bob. Then Carol.
BETH (CONT'D)
We'll be back at Christmas
She glances at the RV.
BETH (CONT'D)
Hopefully the airport's open.
CAROL
Oh, Elizabeth.
She kisses Beth soundly on the cheek.
Steve and Katie hug Bob and Carol and walk to the RV,
carrying their suitcases.
They enter. The RV fires up with a puff of blue exhaust.
It drives down the dirt road. Bob and Carol wave
enthusiastically as it drives away.
Suddenly-
A loud backfire and a puff of black smoke. The RV comes to a
halt.
Bob and Carol slowly lower their arms.
Then-
The RV backfires again and roars to life with another puff of
exhaust. It continues down the road.
At the end of the road, it turns slowly onto the highway.
A green roadsign:
"ETERNITY 5"
The RV crawls its way toward town.
Bob and Carol watch as it fades from view.
FADE TO BLACK.