BECOMING BEN
David Goldstein
2025 David Goldstein
1201 Yale Place #1808
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(612) 760-1081 [email protected]
AUTHOR'S NOTE
_____________
Becoming Ben is a character-driven drama about adolescent
mental health, trauma, and queer identity. Conceived in the
tradition of independent cinema, it focuses less on plot
twists and more on the gradual collapse of a high-achieving
teen.
In Act Two, Ben’s journey unfolds through encounters that
steadily erode his defenses. With each, the emotional
pressure on him increases, and his world inexorably tightens
like an invisible noose. The scenes build on one another
rather than repeating the same beats — what may appear
similar on the page is, in performance, a nuanced progression
that reveals his unraveling and drives the act toward its
climax.
The people around Ben respond as most do in real life: with
partial knowledge, limited by their roles and beliefs. They
navigate gray areas where good intentions and late choices
collide. The film does not judge them but invites viewers to
wrestle with these complexities.
Developed with the guidance of a child psychologist with more
than 40 years of experience and informed by my own as a
mental health counselor, the screenplay aims for authenticity
in depicting both the weight of isolation and the imperfect
ways people try to help.
OVER BLACK: DEXTER HIGH SCHOOL - 2014 - JUNIOR YEAR
CUT TO:
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
2 -
Race to Victory
INT. DEXTER HIGH SCHOOL - SWIMMING POOL - DAY
A high school SWIM MEET between DEXTER HIGH SCHOOL and PARK
HIGH SCHOOL is in full swing. The CROWD buzzes with energy.
The SIX SWIMMERS in the 100-meter freestyle stand on the pool
deck next to the STARTING BLOCKS.
Among them in lane 4 is BEN MICHAELS (17), a Dexter High
junior on the varsity swim team. He’s good-looking, lean, and
charismatic. He exudes self-confidence.
In lane 3 is ALEXANDER WATKINS from Park. He is Ben's main
competitor. He acts edgy.
The other four swimmers fill out the rest of the lanes. They
do pre-race rituals, shaking out their arms and legs while
waiting for the race to be called.
The STARTER blows the whistle, and the swimmers mount the
starting blocks.
Ben stands poised, his muscles tensed as he prepares to dive
into the pool. He looks over at Alexander who's looking at
him with an intense stare. Alexander mouths "Fuck You."
Ben smirks at him, rolls his eyes, and with a little laugh
shakes his head dismissively.
FINN THOMAS (24), Ben's coach and AP History teacher, is
standing poolside. He has All-American good-looks and is lean
with an athletic build.
Finn watches as Ben gets ready to race, his facial expression
focused and intense.
Ben looks over at Finn who gives him a quick, encouraging
nod. Ben, looking determined, nods back.
STARTER
Swimmers, take your mark.
Everyone goes silent, tensely waiting for the buzzer to start
the matchup between Ben and Alexander.
Ben takes a deep breath, centering himself. He assumes the
crouch position for the start of the race, his legs ready to
thrust him off the blocks like a rocket. He eyes the other
end of the pool, then drops his head ready for the buzzer.
The STARTING BUZZER sounds. The crowd erupts into cheers.
The swimmers explode off the blocks diving into the pool.
UNDERWATER:
They slice through the water like torpedoes.
POOLSIDE:
Finn walks closer to the edge of the pool clenching a
stopwatch, tracking every second. He shouts encouragement.
FINN
Come on, Ben! You got this!
IN THE POOL:
Ben surges through the water, powerful strokes carrying him
closer to the far wall. He performs a smooth flip turn, now
neck-and-neck with Alexander.
CLOSE ON.
Ben's hand touches the wall just ahead of Alexander's. The
crowd erupts chanting.
CROWD
BEN! BEN! BEN!...
Seeing he's won, Ben pumps his fist.
BEN
YES!
Ben looks at Alexander who pounds the water in defeat. Ben
smiles broadly and gives Alexander the peace sign. He turns
to his teammates and the crowd raising his arms in victory as
they cheer.
POOLSIDE:
Finn gives Ben a hand and starts to yank him out of the pool.
Ben splashes Finn. Finn let's go and Ben falls back into the
water. He quickly pulls himself out and rushes to Finn.
They share a celebratory hug--quick, impulsive. Ben lifts
Finn up. It lasts a beat too long. Finn doesn't notice.
FINN
Way to go, Ben! You just beat the
state champion.
They give each other a forceful high five. Ben smiles and
looks down, shyly.
OPENING CREDITS ROLL.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
3 -
Morning Rush
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - MORNING
CATHY MICHAELS (42) is Ben's mother. She‘s a successful
business executive, attractive, but not glamorous. She’s
making breakfast in the kitchen of their affluent suburban
home. The kitchen has a contemporary design with a center
island and a breakfast nook.
CATHY
(hollering)
Ben, c’mon you’re going to be late!
She places a plate of scrambled eggs, toast, and a small
carton of orange juice on the island.
CATHY (CONT'D)
Ben!
Ben rushes into the kitchen, wearing his letter jacket and
clutching his backpack.
BEN
(rushed)
No time.
CATHY
Take this.
She quickly butters a piece of toast and hands it to him.
CATHY (CONT'D)
What do you want for dinner?
BEN
Whatever. Bye, Mom.
Ben gives Cathy a quick kiss, shoves the toast into his
mouth, puts on his backpack, and grabs the orange juice. He
rushes out the kitchen door to the garage.
Cathy smiles, sighs, and shakes her head, amused by Ben.
EXT. STREETS - CONTINUOUS
Ben rides his bike "no hands," speeding down quiet tree-lined
streets, a piece of toast in one hand, the carton of orange
juice in the other. He takes a last bite of toast followed by
a final gulp of juice.
He swerves toward an open trashcan and tosses the carton into
it with precision.
He raises his arms in a victory pose.
BEN
He scores!
He grips the handlebars and speeds off.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
4 -
Morning at Dexter High
EXT. DEXTER HIGH - COURTYARD - CONTINUOUS
STUDENTS are lingering around outside talking and throwing
footballs, etc. before classes start.
Ben arrives at the Dexter High School BIKE RACK and locks his
bike to it.
The school bell sounds. Ben and the other students head
toward the front door of the school and disappear in.
CREDITS END.
INT. DEXTER HIGH - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Ben walks confidently down the crowded hallway "dabbing up"
and high five-ing MALE STUDENTS.
Two FEMALE STUDENTS (#1 and 2#) walk toward Ben. Student #1
elbows student #2 to notice Ben. Student #2 gives Ben a big
smile as she walks past him.
STUDENT #2
(seductively)
Hey, Ben.
BEN
Hey.
A MALE STUDENT, also in a letter jacket, approaches Ben, and
they "dab" each other up--bumping fists. The male student
walks past Ben, then stops and turns around, pointing at Ben.
MALE STUDENT
(smiling, hollering)
Dude, I am so going to smoke you in
the 100 free next time!
Ben stops and turns around.
BEN
(laughing, pointing)
You are so not.
The male student grins and walks away. Ben continues down the
hallway and arrives at his locker. He opens it to reveal
pictures of MICHAEL PHELPS and MARK SPITZ wearing their gold
medals.
Ben takes off his letter jacket and hangs it on a hook. He
takes his laptop out of his backpack, stuffs the backpack,
into the locker, and shuts the door.
He walks off to his AP history class.
Genres:
["Drama","Coming-of-age","Teen"]
Ratings
Scene
5 -
A Grade to Remember
INT. DEXTER HIGH - HISTORY CLASSROOM - MORNING
A typical school classroom--plain white walls, adorned with
posters related to American history. Finn's desk has an open
laptop, notebook, papers, and books on it.
The STUDENTS are sitting at desks arranged in neat rows. Ben
is seated at the back of the room.
Finn walks around the room handing out graded papers.
FINN
For the next class, read chapters 5
and 6, and come up with a question you
think you can stump me with.
He approaches a FEMALE STUDENT and hands her a paper.
FINN (CONT'D)
A little less plagiarism next time,
Chris.
Finn passes out tests to the other students. The last paper
he hands out is to Ben.
Ben sees a grade of “A“ and ”Great Job Again!” written
underneath it.
FINN (CONT’D)
(smiling)
Keep it up, Ben, and you can teach the
class while I go out for coffee.
Ben gives Finn a big smile, basking in his approval. They
"dab" each other up.
FINN (CONT'D)
See you at practice.
Ben energetically gets up and files out of the room with the
other students. He looks intently at his paper again.
BEN
(speaks with confidence)
Yeah, that's what I'm talking about!
Genres:
["Drama","Coming-of-age"]
Ratings
Scene
6 -
Hallway Banter
INT. DEXTER HIGH - HALLWAY - AFTERNOON
Students are scattered around, rushing to their next classes.
Ben walks up to his locker and opens it. He removes his
JOURNAL and laptop from the backpack and slams the locker
shut. EMMA (18), a senior and Ben's oldest friend, is large,
brash with a big personality. She is standing behind the
locker door and startles him.
BEN
Em! Trying to give me a heart attack?
EMMA
Did you know that your mom and my dad
went on a date?
BEN
(confused)
Wait, what?
EMMA
Yeah, they went out to
dinner...together.
BEN
Yeah, that's not a date. A date is
dinner and a movie.
EMMA
No offense, but I don't wanna be your
sister.
BEN
No offense, but I don't wanna be your
brother.
EMMA
Well, at least, we agree.
(shrugging)
Actually...you might make an okay
brother.
BEN
(suspicious)
Really?
EMMA
(got ya)
Yeah, not even close.
BEN
(smirking)
Hilarious.
Ben closes his locker. They walk down the hall together.
EMMA
(whiny)
Ben. I need help.
BEN
(skeptically)
With what?
EMMA
Physics. I'm going to flunk the quiz
tomorrow. I almost did last week
and...the week before.
BEN
Em, you're like a genius. Why are you
flunking quizzes?
EMMA
I've been spending a lot of time with
my new boyfriend Ricky.
BEN
The college guy that you told you went
to USC?
EMMA
(incredulously)
Hello?
BEN
(sighs)
Em!
EMMA
We text like a million times a day.
Let me show you his YouTube. He's so
cute.
Emma takes out her phone.
BEN
(cutting her off)
I trust you.
EMMA
Anyway, next Friday, they're having a
big frat party. I bet he could hook
you up with a hot sorority girl.
BEN
I gotta study.
EMMA
Blah, blah, blah. You get straight A's
in everything...even lunch, and you
barely study. You're going.
BEN
(giving in)
Alright, I'll help you with physics.
Come over after dinner.
EMMA
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
You're the best.
BEN
I'm glad you noticed. And leave your
phone at home!
EMMA
(mock annoyance)
Ugh. I hate you.
BEN
(mock annoyance)
I hate you back.
Finn walks toward them texting.
EMMA
Hi, Mr. Thomas.
FINN
Hi, guys.
BEN
Hey, Mr. T.
Finn continues to walk past them. Emma turns her head to get
a closer look at Finn's butt.
EMMA
Do you think he's gay?
BEN
(surprised)
What?
EMMA
Mr. Thomas. Do you think he's gay?
BEN
How would I know? Who cares?
EMMA
I think he is.
BEN
Ok, Em, I'll bite, why?
EMMA
Obviously, he works out.
Ben turns his head and stares a little too long at Finn,
takes a small breath, and swallows hard.
EMMA (CONT'D)
His hair is always perfect. He uses
product, and his ass...
Ben cuts her off.
BEN
Okay, I get the picture.
Ben gives a quick glance in the direction Finn was walking.
BEN (CONT'D)
(a little distracted)
Um...gotta get to practice. See ya
tonight, Em.
He runs off.
EMMA
Later, Dickwad!
Genres:
["Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
7 -
A Warm Afternoon at Fox Park
EXT. FOX PARK - AFTERNOON
A warm afternoon sun shines on a secluded, wooded area of Fox
Park. There is a large pond with walking and biking trails
surrounding the peaceful setting. Ben, wearing a hoodie, sits
under a large shade tree writing in his journal.
Finn, shirtless with defined muscles and sweaty, is running
on a path near where Ben is sitting. He stops, takes a
bandana from his shorts and wipes his face, then checks his
Apple Watch. He spots Ben and jogs over to him.
FINN
Hey, Ben.
BEN
Hey, Mr. T!
FINN
What are you doing out here?
BEN
It’s kind of my go-to place to clear
my head. I like to write in my journal
here, and...um...think great thoughts
about AP American History. So, let‘s
just keep it between us, okay?
FINN
Sure, I get it. In college, I used to
hang out at this coffee shop off-
campus. It was next to some railroad
tracks. When a train went by the whole
place shook--you had to hold your cup
to keep it from falling off the table.
Finn glances at his Apple Watch and prepares to leave.
FINN (CONT'D)
Well, save some of those great
thoughts about AP American History,
you’ve got a test on Monday.
BEN
Don't worry, Mr. T. I'm a very
"thought-full” person.
FINN
Newsflash: That was lame.
BEN
Newsflash: So is your stride.
FINN
Remember, I read your papers, Ben.
BEN
Didn’t know you could read, Mr. T.
FINN
(laughing)
Goodbye, Ben. See you Monday.
BEN
(big smile)
See ya, Mr. T.
Finn starts his Apple Watch and runs off.
Ben watches him intently for a telling moment. He turns the
page in his journal and starts to sketch an image of Finn
running. He stops sketching, and stares at it. He rips it
out, crumples it, and puts it in the pocket of his hoodie.
Then he goes back to writing.
Genres:
["Drama","Coming-of-age"]
Ratings
Scene
8 -
Evening Banter and Reflection
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - EVENING
Cathy is in the kitchen making dinner. Ben enters the kitchen
through the door to the garage carrying his backpack.
CATHY
Hi, Ben.
BEN
Hi, Mom.
He drops his backpack on the floor, goes to the refrigerator
and gulps orange juice from a carton.
CATHY
How many times have I told you not to
drink from the container? That’s what
glasses are for. Civilized people
don’t drink right from the
refrigerator.
BEN
Well, I’m a magician, I made it all
disappear.
With a perfect arc, he throws the empty container into a
trash container.
CATHY
Where were you so late?
BEN
Callum and Reilly and me…
CATHY
And I.
BEN
Grammar police. Callum, Reilly, and
“I” played some soccer, then went to
Jason’s to play video games.
CATHY
I think you spend too much time
playing video games. Maybe, you could
read a book.
BEN
I’m in all AP classes. That’s all I do
is read books. Hey, I ran into Mr. T.
He's so awesome. We like messing with
each other.
CATHY
Where did you see him?
BEN
He was just out running. He’s really
ripped, like 10% body fat.
He muscle poses like a body builder.
BEN (CONT'D)
What do think?
CATHY
I think you should go get washed up,
dinner’s almost ready.
He muscle poses again.
BEN
Yo! Mr. Thomas.
He picks up his backpack and exits.
Cathy watches Ben as he exits. She smiles, rolls her eyes,
and shakes her head with amusement then returns to making
dinner.
INT. CATHY’S HOUSE - BEN’S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
The bedroom is a typical teenager's. It has white walls and a
double bed. A desk is across from it with bookshelves above —
swimming medals hang from the shelf. Posters of swimmers line
the walls.
Ben enters, drops his backpack, shrugs off his hoodie and
tosses it on the desk chair. The crumpled sketch falls from
the pocket. He picks it up and uncrumples it. He takes out
his journal and sits at the desk. He opens the top drawer
where there are pens, tape, an Exacto knife, etc.
He tapes the sketch back into the journal, gently smoothing
it flat, then stares at it.
Genres:
["Drama","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
9 -
Awkward Encounters at the Theater
EXT. MOVIE THEATER - NIGHT
Ben and Emma walk down a sidewalk toward a multiplex movie
theater. One theater is showing The Rocky Horror Picture
Show. Emma is dressed like the character Columbia. A group of
other YOUNG PEOPLE wearing costumes also hang around outside
the theater.
BEN
Sorry about Duke, Em.
EMMA
Thanks. Well, I'll get into UPenn. I'm
a legacy. And they've got a really
good Communications program. You’d
visit me there, right?
BEN
(shrugging)
Yeah, probably not.
EMMA
I hate you.
BEN
I hate you back.
Emma spots Finn with DYLAN across the street. Dylan (late
20s-30) is Finn’s boyfriend. He is tall with masculine good
looks and an athletic build. Emma‘s face lights up when she
sees them. Ben’s does not.
EMMA
Hey, there’s Mr. Thomas! Let’s go and
say ”Hi.”
BEN
(uneasily)
Uh, no thanks. I’ll pass.
EMMA
Don’t be a doofus.
Emma grabs Ben’s arm and before he can protest she pulls him
across the street. They approach Finn and Dylan who are
leaving the theater.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Hi, Mr. Thomas.
FINN
(surprised)
Hey, Emma. Just a guess. You’re going
to see Rocky Horror.
EMMA
Have you seen it?
FINN
Yeah, but it's been a while.
EMMA
It’s like my 4th time.
FINN
I can believe it.
EMMA
Ben's never seen it. He's a virgin.
Finn looks at Ben, who’s fidgeting a little and avoiding
Finn’s gaze.
FINN
Hi, Ben.
BEN
(uncomfortably)
Hey.
FINN
No costume?
BEN
(shrugs)
Not really my thing, Mr. T.
Dylan smiles at Ben’s awkwardness.
DYLAN
(gently mocking)
Not really Mr. T’s thing either.
FINN
Dylan, this is Emma. And Ben.
EMMA
(flirtatious)
Hi, Dylan.
BEN
(looks down)
Hey.
Ben grows visibly restless, eyes darting toward the theater.
BEN (CONT'D)
(fidgety)
Em, we’re late. Let’s get tickets.
Maybe, for once, we can see the actual
beginning of a movie.
EMMA
Chill, Dude. It’s really cool seeing
you outside of school, Mr. Thomas.
Dylan raises an eyebrow amused.
DYLAN
It's really cool, isn‘t it, Finn?
Finn gives Dylan a pointed look but says nothing.
FINN
See you in class, Ben.
BEN
(looking down)
Yeah, see ya.
Ben and Emma walk toward the box office. Ben stops, but Emma
continues ahead.
Ben turns his head and gives a lingering glance at Finn and
Dylan whom he now sees holding hands. A look flickers across
Ben’s face, a mix of confusion, longing, and jealousy. He
swallows hard and takes a deep breath as he watches them walk
away.
EMMA
(hollering)
Come on!
Startled, Ben runs over to Emma, and they enter the theater.
Genres:
["Drama","Coming-of-age","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
10 -
Tension and Teasing
EXT. SIDEWALK - CONTINUOUS
Finn and Dylan walk down the sidewalk in an uncomfortable
silence. Dylan sensing tension, slips an arm around Finn,
drawing him close.
DYLAN
Ben’s kinda cute.
Finn brushes Dylan’s arm off him.
FINN
(irritated)
He’s one of my students, Dylan.
DYLAN
What’s he like?
FINN
Well...he’s super smart...
funny...driven. A really talented
swimmer.
DYLAN
(with humor,innuendo)
A swimmer...
FINN
Ok, Dylan, stop! Don't get creepy;
he's a kid.
DYLAN
I'm joking.
(mimicking Emma)
Chill, Dude.
Finn gives Dylan a little push. They both laugh.
Genres:
["Drama","Coming-of-age","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
11 -
Conflicted Emotions
INT. DEXTER HIGH - HISTORY CLASSROOM - MORNING
Finn is writing on the whiteboard with his back to the
students.
Ben, out-of-breath and carrying his backpack, enters quickly
and goes to his desk at the back of the class. He intently
stares at Finn's body, transfixed.
He takes out his journal and starts sketching Finn.
FINN
Alright, we were talking about the
difference between the Chesapeake Bay
economy
Ben, immersed in sketching, isn’t listening. Finn’s voice
becomes soft and garbled. We hear Ben’s heart beating over
it.
FINN (CONT’D)
(garbled)
...versus the Massachusetts economy in
the early 18th century.
Finn’s voice returns to normal.
FINN (CONT'D)
Let’s see. Ben, do you have any
thoughts about it?
Ben doesn‘t respond.
FINN (CONT’D)
Ben?
He still doesn't respond.
FINN (CONT'D)
Earth to Ben, what planet are you on?
Ben snaps back to attention and looks at Finn.
BEN
What? Um...Uranus?
The students crack up.
FINN
Don't be a smartass, Ben.
MALE STUDENT
Ass. Burn for Mr. T!
FINN
Any thoughts?
BEN
(distracted)
About?
FINN
The difference between the Chesapeake
Bay economy versus the Massachusetts
economy in the early 18th century.
BEN
Um...no.
He goes back to sketching.
FINN
That's a first.
The bell ending class rings. Ben packs up and walks
determinedly past Finn without saying anything.
Finn looks at Ben with a perplexed look on his face.
EXT. FOX PARK - AFTERNOON
Ben sits in his usual place writing in his journal.
Out of the corner of his eye, Ben notices movement. Two
figures-Finn and Dylan-run in his direction, shirtless, their
bodies glistening with sweat.
They stop nearby, laughing, breathless, their bond palpable.
Dylan drapes an arm around Finn, pulling him close. Finn
leans in and kisses Dylan deeply before breaking away and
running off. Dylan chases after him.
Ben watches them increasingly unsettled.
His breathing becomes fast and deep. He swallows hard, closes
his eyes and leans back against the tree, his face an intense
mix of confusion, longing and jealousy.
Genres:
["Drama","Coming-of-age","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
12 -
Isolation at the Party
INT. FRAT HOUSE - NIGHT
A party is in full swing. Loud music thumps, filling the room
with vibrant energy. The living room and dining areas are
packed with people dancing or gathered around a keg of beer
and a table with an array of Jello-shots on it.
Ben stands in a corner with a bottle of water looking
uncomfortable and detached. Emma, a little tipsy, runs over
to him.
EMMA
(hollering over the noise)
Come on, we're all gonna dance.
BEN
I'm good here.
Emma tries to drag Ben over, but he resists.
EMMA
(baby talk)
Please...
BEN
(irritated)
I don't want to dance, okay? You go
have a good time.
EMMA
(frowns)
Fine.
She seductively boogies back to her boyfriend RICKY, and they
entangle themselves in a sloppy kiss.
Genres:
["Drama","Coming-of-age","Teen"]
Ratings
Scene
13 -
Post-Party Tensions
INT. BEN'S CAR - CONTINUOUS
EMMA
(a little drunk)
That party was awesome.
BEN
(detached)
Yeah.
EMMA
(a little exasperated)
Why'd you hang out in the corner by
yourself all night?
BEN
Didn't know anyone, didn't want to
know anyone.
EMMA
We were doing Jello-shots. There was a
keg. You didn't have anything.
BEN
(irritated)
I'm driving. I'm not going to lose my
license because of some cheap beer.
EMMA
Beer doesn't count as drinking.
Emma turns on the radio, and Brett Domino's "Sexy When You Do
That" is playing.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Oh, I love this song.
Emma starts to karaoke to it, pretending to have a mic that
she goes back and forth between them, but Ben doesn't join
in. The scene fades into a fantasy. We hear Ben's heartbeat
thumping.
FANTASY BEGINS:
Genres:
["Drama","Coming-of-age"]
Ratings
Scene
14 -
Unspoken Worries
EXT. FOX PARK - DAY
Finn and Ben are standing shirtless in Fox Park, their body's
glistening with sweat. They are kissing deeply.
Ben’s head drops back and Finn gently kisses his neck, Ben’s
face showing his ecstasy.
Finn guides Ben down to his back on the cool grass and lowers
himself onto him.
EMMA
Ben! Stop!
FANTASY ENDS.
Ben slams on the brakes bringing the car to a screeching
halt, jarring him back to reality. The music resumes.
Emma turns off the radio.
EMMA (CONT'D)
You just passed my house.
BEN
Um...sorry.
He backs the car up, then stops.
EMMA
Okay, Dickwad, thanks for the ride.
Ben stares straight ahead.
BEN
(distracted)
Yeah...anytime.
Emma gives him a quick peck on the cheek. She opens the car
door and gets out, shutting the door behind her. She takes a
few steps, stops and walks back to the car. She knocks on the
window, and Ben rolls it down.
EMMA
(concerned)
Is everything okay with you?
BEN
(wary)
Yeah, why?
EMMA
Don't know. Lately, you seem kind of
off. Did I do something wrong?
BEN
(small sigh)
No, we're good.
EMMA
If something's wrong, you’d tell me,
right?
BEN
The first.
(beat)
Look, Em, I'm just stressed out, okay?
BEN (CONT'D)
Um...I'm in all AP classes...I've got
a big meet coming up and...um...I'm
gonna take the SAT again.
EMMA
(surprised)
Why are you taking the SAT again, you
got a 1570 as a sophomore?
BEN
I'm gonna get a perfect score this
time.
EMMA
(suspiciously)
Whatever, but if you're not telling me
the truth, I'll be really pissed off,
and you don't want to piss me off.
(beat)
(concerned)
Ben...you’re not...thinking of doing
anything like before, are you?
BEN
(lying, shaking his head)
No. I’m fine, Em.
EMMA
I worry, you know.
BEN
(looking away)
I know.
EMMA
So, we're good?
BEN
(clutches the steering wheel)
Yup, we're good.
EMMA
(unsure)
Okay...see ya.
Ben watches her walk up the sidewalk to her house. She stops
and looks back at Ben. She gives a small wave then goes in.
Ben tightly grasps the steering wheel. He closes his eyes and
rests his head on it. He takes a deep breath, then drives off
Looking unsettled.
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - HALLWAY - NIGHT
Cathy, wearing sweats, walks down the dim hallway towards
Ben's bedroom, his hoodie folded in her arms.
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - BEN'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
The glow of Ben's laptop casts soft light across the room.
Ben's sleeps on his side turned away from her.
She enters, and hangs the hoodie behind the door, then
crosses to the desk.
She pauses and looks over at Ben, studying him. Something
flickers across her face--a vague, gnawing uncertainty.
She closes the laptop.
At the door, she hesitates, looks back at Ben, then quietly
shuts the door behind her.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
15 -
Test Anxiety
INT. DEXTER HIGH - HISTORY CLASSROOM - MORNING
Finn walks around the classroom, handing out blue books with
graded tests. The students anxiously await their results.
FINN
Remember we're going to be watching
the first part of Ken Burns's
documentary on the Civil War, so bring
popcorn.
Finn hands Ben his blue book, but Ben doesn't look at him. He
glances at the cover and sees a grade of B.
FINN (CONT’D)
(not unkindly)
Not your best work, Ben.
Ben stares at the blue book as Finn continues to pass out
exams. He's antsy, drumming his fingers on his desk desperate
to leave. The bell rings ending class. Ben, with urgency,
packs up his things.
Finn sees Ben rip his blue book in half, crumple it, and toss
it into the wastebasket before he hurries out.
FINN (CONT'D)
(whispers to himself)
What's going on, Ben?
INT. DEXTER HIGH - BATHROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ben storms into the bathroom and goes immediately into a
stall, slamming the door behind him and locking it. He leans
his forehead against the door, panting fast and hard.
FADE OUT:
In the blackout, we hear the sounds of a swim meet.
Genres:
["Drama","Coming-of-age"]
Ratings
Scene
16 -
Strained Support
INT. DEXTER HIGH - SWIMMING POOL - AFTERNOON
A swim meet is in full swing. The 100-meter freestyle event
is going on. The crowd is cheering as the swimmers come down
the homestretch.
Ben is struggling. His strokes are choppy, and he is losing
ground. The other boys are surging past him.
Finn watches with intense focus. He shouts encouragement.
FINN
Come on, Ben! Push it!
Ben touches the wall finishing third. He looks dejected.
Breathing heavily, he hits the water in frustration.
Finn offers Ben a hand to get out of the pool, but Ben
refuses it. He slowly pulls himself out of the pool and
ignoring Finn walks toward the locker room.
FINN (CONT’D)
(calls to him)
Ben.
Ben stops, looking defeated. Finn walks over to him.
FINN (CONT'D)
After you're showered, will you stop
by and see me?
He nods his head, then slowly walks to the locker room.
Finn starts to go after him but stops. Looking concerned, he
shakes his head and sighs.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
17 -
Unexpected Confessions
INT. DEXTER HIGH - HISTORY CLASSROOM - AFTERNOON
The room is quiet. Finn sits at his desk grading papers.
The door is slightly ajar. Ben, wearing his letter jacket and
backpack, stands in the doorway holding his helmet. He
hesitates, then knocks softly.
BEN
(hesitantly)
You wanted to see me, Mr. T?
Finn looks up, nods.
FINN
Yeah, Ben. Come in and grab a seat.
Finn sets the papers aside and stands up. He brings his desk
chair around and gestures for Ben to sit down. Ben sits. Finn
leans against his desk facing Ben, his expression serious,
but kind.
BEN
Am I in trouble?
Finn shakes his head reassuringly.
FINN
No, not at all. I just wanted to talk
to you.
Ben exhales and sits. His body is tense and shoulders
hunched. One of his legs shake.
BEN
(wary)
What do you want to talk about then?
Finn chooses his words carefully.
FINN
Ben, you're usually one of my top
students. In class you're energetic,
you participate--sometimes you're a
little snarky. But lately, something's
off. Your grades are slipping. You've
come in third in the 100. You own that
race. That's not like you. You seem...
distracted.
Ben shifts in his seat, avoiding eye contact.
BEN
I'm sorry, Mr. T, I'll do better. I've
just been...busy.
FINN
(sensing something deeper)
Busy with what?
BEN
(hesitantly)
Just...stuff.
FINN
(tone softening)
If something's going on, you can talk
to me about it. Is everything okay at
home?
Ben's expression tightens. He shakes his head affirmatively.
BEN
(avoids Finn eyes)
Yeah. Everything's good.
FINN
And at school? Anything bothering
you...your classes?
BEN
(a little agitated)
No. I said it was fine.
Finn studies Ben's face sensing something more is going on.
FINN
Sometimes it's not about school or
sports. Sometimes it's personal. A
girl, maybe?
BEN
(getting antsy)
No, it's not...um...it's not like
that.
(rising anxiety)
Can I go now?
Ben stands and walks toward the door. Finn stands.
FINN
Ben, wait.
Ben stops at the door, but doesn't turn around.
Finn hesitates, then takes a piece of paper off his desk and
rips off a small piece. He scribbles his cell number on it
and offers it to Ben.
FINN (CONT'D)
Here's my number. If you ever need to
talk--about anything--I'm here. No
judgments, okay?
Ben takes the paper and glances at it. He stuffs it into his
pocket. He walks toward the door but hesitates, then he turns
and looks at Finn, but avoids his gaze.
BEN
(hesitantly)
Mr. T...how do you...if you like
someone, how do you tell them?
FINN
(considering)
That's...not always easy.
BEN
(struggling for the words)
What if...what if you can't tell them?
Or you're scared.
FINN
It can be scary, for sure. But, if you
keep it inside, it can eat away at
you. So, I guess, you just have to
take the risk of being rejected.
Ben hesitates looking uncomfortable.
BEN
(looking down, agitated)
What if it's someone you shouldn't
like?
Finn's looks concerned.
FINN
Ben, what are you trying to say?
A long tense silence.
FINN (CONT'D)
Ben?
BEN
(blurting out)
It's you I like, Mr. T...
Finn's surprise is evident, but he remains calm.
Ben's panic rises.
BEN (CONT'D)
(panicked rambling)
I know it's wrong. I know I shouldn't
feel this way. I didn't mean...
(full out panic)
Oh, my God, I'm...I'm so sorry...
Ben bolts for the door sprinting down the empty hallway.
FINN
(calling after him)
Ben, wait! Ben...
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
18 -
Descent into Solitude
INT. DEXTER HIGH - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Ben runs down the hallway, dropping his helmet. He abruptly
stops in front of a row of lockers, breathing heavily. He
slams his fist into the lockers again and again until his
knuckles bleed.
BEN
(pleading)
Please stop...please...please stop.
Finn runs quickly down the hallway extreme concerned etched
on his face.
FINN
(calling)
Ben, come on, talk to me.
Ben looks at Finn with desperation in his eyes. He hesitates
then bolts toward the front door.
FINN (CONT'D)
Ben, wait!
Ben desperately runs out the front door to the bike rack.
EXT. DEXTER HIGH - BIKE RACK - CONTINUOUS
In a panic, Ben slings on his backpack, quickly unlocks his
bike and furiously rides off, his face flushed with emotion.
EXT. STREETS - CONTINUOUS
Ben rides erratically through busy streets, weaving in and
out of traffic.
EXT. FOX PARK - CONTINUOUS
Ben arrives at Fox Park still very upset. He immediately goes
to the tree--his "safe" place.
He drops his bike and takes off his backpack. He slides down
the tree trunk to the ground, then hugging his knees, he bows
his head and begins to sob.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
19 -
A Concern for Ben
INT. DEXTER HIGH - PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
Finn stands at the open door of PRINCIPAL TOM PETERS'S (50's)
office. Peters is dressed conservatively and professional. He
is kind and caring, but firm as well. The office has a drab,
uninviting vibe. Peters sits at his desk typing.
Finn knocks on the door.
FINN
Tom, have you got a minute?
Peters stops typing, looks up and sees Finn.
PETERS
Sure, Finn. Come in.
Finn walks in and sits in a chair in front of Peters's desk.
PETERS (CONT'D)
What can I do for you?
FINN
I have a situation with one of my
students, Ben Michaels.
TOM
Okay.
FINN
He's a smart kid, straight A's, one of
my best. He's also on the varsity swim
team.
TOM
Alright.
FINN
Lately, he hasn't been doing well in
class or in the pool. I asked him if
he wanted to talk about anything, and
he said nothing was wrong. Then I
pushed a little, and he blurted out
that he has a crush on me.
PETERS
Did he say anything else?
FINN
He just panicked. He said, "Oh, my
God, I'm so sorry," and bolted. I went
after him, and he was punching a
locker so hard his knuckles were
bleeding. When he saw me coming, he
blew out the front door before I could
get to him.
PETERS
Did you have any idea he had feelings
for you?
FINN
No, I didn't see this coming. I
thought it might be problems with a
girlfriend. But now, I think I
understand what's been going on. I'm
really concerned about him. What do
you suggest I do?
beat.
PETERS
(considering)
Well...it's Friday. Let's give him
some space. I'll touch base with the
school counselor. But, let’s keep a
close eye on him. If it’s necessary,
I'll talk to Ben myself.
FINN
Thanks, Tom. I'll let you know.
Finn stands and exits. Peters looks concerned.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
20 -
Navigating Crushes and Concerns
INT. FINN'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - EVENING
The great room of Finn and Dylan's cozy mid-century modern
home. It has an open plan kitchen done in white with a dining
table and 4 chairs around it. In the other part of the room
is the living room area.
Finn is in the kitchen chopping vegetables, and listening to
music through his Air Pods.
Dylan enters through a door to the garage wearing a business
suit. He comes up behind Finn and kisses him on the neck.
Finn is startled and takes out his Air Pods.
FINN
I didn't hear you come in.
DYLAN
My meeting ran long.
Dylan gets a beer out of the refrigerator.
DYLAN (CONT'D)
Did you get my text?
Finn nods he did and goes back to chopping. Dylan sees that
Finn's body is tense.
DYLAN (CONT'D)
Hey, something going on?
FINN
(sighs)
It's one of my students.
DYLAN
Yeah? What's up?
FINN
He told me that he likes me.
Dylan takes off his jacket and loosens his tie. He walks to
the table and hangs the jacket on a chair.
DYLAN
What's wrong with that? You're a great
teacher.
FINN
No, Dylan. He "likes" me.
DYLAN
Oh. He's got a crush on you. That's
sweet. Who is it?
FINN
Ben. You met him once outside the
movie theater.
DYLAN
(surprised)
The good-looking one?
FINN
Yeah, the good-looking one.
DYLAN
Ben's hot for teacher!
FINN
(snaps back)
It's not funny, Dylan. He's
struggling.
DYLAN
Over a crush?
FINN
Yeah.
DYLAN
Did you even suspect he's gay?
FINN
No, I thought it was about a girl.
DYLAN
What are you gonna do?
FINN
I talked to Peters. He said to give
him the weekend and see how it goes.
DYLAN
I can tell that you care about him,
Finn. But he's not your
responsibility.
FINN
He’s scared, Dylan. I just don't want
this to turn into a bigger mess for
him than it already is.
DYLAN
You know, if he ever made an
allegation against you, it could ruin
your career...and mine.
Finn shoots an angry look at Dylan. He shakes his head and
takes a deep breath.
FINN
(irritated)
He's not that kind of kid.
DYLAN
You don't know that!
(beat)
Look, Finn, we were all afraid at
first. It just takes some time, but
he'll be okay.
FINN
Did you ever have a crush on a
teacher?
DYLAN
(smiling)
I went to a Catholic High School. More
likely a priest had a crush on me.
They both give a small laugh that eases the tension.
FINN
Anyway, Peters said he'll handle it.
DYLAN
Good, you should stay out of it.
INT. FINN'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - NIGHT
It's late at night. Finn‘s sitting at the dining room table
grading student's homework. His phone is on the table. He
looks tired. He takes off his glasses and rubs his eyes.
FLASHBACK BEGINS:
INT. DEXTER HIGH - HISTORY CLASSROM - DAY
--Ben bolts out of the classroom.
--Ben hits the lockers.
Dylan enters.
FLASHBACK ENDS:
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
21 -
Silent Connections
INT. FINN'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
DYLAN
(quietly)
It's late. Come to bed.
FINN
In a minute.
DYLAN
(concerned)
What's going on, Finn?
FINN
I need to make sure he's okay.
DYLAN
Are you sure that's a good idea?
FINN
(quiet, hesitant)
I don't know. I don't. Yeah, I'm his
teacher, but...I'm also a gay man,
Dylan, and he's a gay kid in pain.
Doesn't that mean something?
Dylan walks up behind Finn and kisses the top of his head.
DYLAN
(softly, tenderly)
I love you.
He turns to go. Stops. Looks back concerned - then leaves.
Finn nervously runs his hand over his mouth. He stops, and
slowly picks up the phone. He scrolls to Ben's contact. He
hesitantly types.
POV-OVER FINN'S SHOULDER (TEXT)
Hey, Ben. It's Mr. T. I'm worried
about you. You okay?
His finger hovers over "Send". He stares at the message
unsure, then takes a deep breath, and exhales hard. He hits
"Send,” then puts the phone down. He stares at the screen,
nervously tapping his fingers on the table. He stops and
looking unsettled goes back to grading papers.
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - BEN'S BEDROOM - SAME TIME
Ben lies on his bed staring blankly at the ceiling, his face
heavy with depression. Ben's phone dings. He reads the text.
His eyes fill with tears as he erases it.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
22 -
Crossing Boundaries
INT. DEXTER HIGH - PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE - MORNING
Peters is sitting at his desk reviewing documents. Finn
appears at his doorway.
FINN
(serious)
Tom, are you busy?
PETERS
No. Come in. What's up?
Finn enters.
FINN
(hesitantly)
I may have crossed a line.
PETERS
(concerned)
Crossed a line?
FINN
(hesitantly)
I texted Ben on Friday night...late.
PETERS
(warily)
What did it say?
FINN
Just that I was worried about him and
was he alright. He didn’t respond.
(beat)
I wanted you to know, in case
something...
PETERS
(a little stern)
I see. Well, I appreciate you telling
me.
(considering)
If I pull him out of your class and
involve his mother right now, it could
make things harder for him.
PETERS (CONT'D)
So, for the time being, I think you
need to keep your interactions with
him limited to class and practice,
okay?
FINN
(nods)
I will.
He turns to leave.
PETERS
(lighter)
Finn...you’re a good teacher and your
heart’s in the right place.
(deliberately, not scolding)
But this is a delicate situation. We
need to be cautious, for Ben's sake
and for the school's.
FINN
(looks away, sighs)
I understand. It won't happen again.
Finn starts to leave.
PETERS
For the record, I don't think you
crossed the line. The text itself was
harmless. But sending it late at night
could be misinterpreted. Okay?
FINN
(deep breath, quietly)
Yeah. Thanks, Tom.
He exits slowly, looking serious. Peters watches concerned.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
23 -
Silent Rejection
INT. DEXTER HIGH - HALLWAY - MORNING
Ben, wearing his letter jacket, walks without his usual
confidence through a crowded hallway of STUDENTS, all
bustling to and from classes. He reaches his locker, opens
it, and hangs his jacket inside. Without glancing at anyone,
he grabs his backpack then walks slowly towards Finn's
classroom without much energy.
As Ben approaches the classroom door, he catches sight of
Finn from behind chatting with another student.
We hear Ben's heart pounding. His gaze lingers on Finn. Finn
finishes his conversation and turns around. Their eyes meet.
Ben remains expressionless. Finn silently implores Ben to
come in. Ben hesitates then turns and slowly walks away.
Finn sighs. He watches Ben a moment then shuts the classroom
door.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
24 -
Internal Struggle
INT. DEXTER HIGH - SWIMMING POOL - AFTERNOON
The pool area is filling up with students and spectators
before a meet. Some swimmers are in the pool practicing
strokes and flip turns.
INT. DEXTER HIGH - LOCKER ROOM - SAME TIME
The locker room is a buzz of activity. Ben sits on the bench
in front of his locker fully dressed. He stares straight
ahead. His face is tense with a distressed look. He's antsy,
his leg shaking. He's breathing deeply in ragged breaths.
TEAMMATE #1
See you in there, Dude.
BEN
(vacant)
Yeah, sure.
His teammates leave the locker room. Ben is now alone. He
stares straight ahead.
BEN (CONT'D)
FUCK THIS SHIT!
He grabs his backpack and quickly leaves.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
25 -
Tension in the Principal's Office
INT. DEXTER HIGH - PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
Principal Peters sits at his desk typing. Ben knocks on the
door frame looking tired and appears edgy.
PETERS
(warm smile)
Hi, Ben. Come in. Have a seat.
He gestures for Ben to take a seat. Ben sits, his body tense.
PETERS (CONT'D)
Thanks for coming. How are you today?
BEN
(tight lipped)
It's all good.
PETERS
I understand you're on the varsity
swim team. How's the team doing?
BEN
(impatient)
Fine. Mr. Peters, did you really ask
me to come here to talk about the swim
team.
PETERS
(calmly)
No, Ben, I didn't. I wanted to talk
with you about a conversation you had
with Mr. Thomas.
BEN
(nonchalantly)
What conversation was that?
PETERS
He told me you shared some feelings
you have about him.
BEN
(serious)
Yeah, I did. I told him I thought he
was a great teacher and coach.
PETERS
(patiently)
He felt it went beyond that.
BEN
Then he must have misunderstood what I
said.
PETERS
Mr. Thomas said that you were really
upset and that afterward you pounded a
locker with your fist.
BEN
(getting agitated)
He must have seen someone else.
PETERS
Ben, I can see the bruising on your
hand.
Ben averts his eyes from Peters.
a tense pause.
BEN
(clenches jaw, snarky)
Well, congratulations, Mr. Peters, you
found me out.
PETERS
Ben, coming to see me isn't a
punishment.
BEN
Then, why does it feel like one?
PETERS
Mr. Thomas had an obligation to talk
to me about this. We need to make sure
that everyone is safe and gets
whatever support they need. Mr. Thomas
is concerned about you, and so am I.
BEN
(sarcastically)
That's really nice of you.
PETERS
I know this is hard for you.
BEN
(emotion rising in his voice)
How hard is it for me, Mr. Peters?
PETERS
Ben, I can't force you to talk to me.
Would you be more comfortable talking
to the school counselor, Mrs. Black?
BEN
Mr. Peters?
PETERS
Yes, Ben.
BEN
(voice breaking)
Don't you think I suffered enough
humiliation? Now you want me to
humiliate myself all over again. Why
don't you just put it on the PA?
An excruciating pause. Ben is on the point of breaking.
BEN (CONT'D)
(averts his eyes, emotion rising)
Do you know what's going to happen,
Mr. Peters?
PETERS
(quietly)
No, Ben.
Ben sits and doesn't move.
BEN
Today or tomorrow or...maybe, the next
day, you're going to tell your wife
about the ridiculous kid that told his
teacher that he liked him. And you'll
both get a good laugh, and Mrs. Black
will do the same. Then, you'll call my
mom and tell her, and I'll have to
talk about it all over again.
PETERS
I'm not going to call your mother.
BEN
(incredulous)
That's not true, and you know it!
PETERS
We just want to help you. You
expressed a feeling. There's nothing
wrong with that.
BEN
(viscerally angry)
You can have my feelings because I
don't want them! I didn't ask for
them, Mr. Peters. I mean, look where
they’ve gotten me. I'm leaving...
Ben stands and walks to the door.
BEN (CONT'D)
and you can't make me stay here. Throw
me out of school if you want to...
PETERS
Ben, you're not going to get thrown
out of school. We're just...
BEN
I will never talk about this again
with you or anyone else.
Ben swallows hard. He grabs the door knob and jerks the door
open.
Peters stands up abruptly. A look of concern etched on his
face.
PETERS
Ben…
He bolts from the office, slamming the door behind him.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
26 -
Tension at the Dinner Table
EXT. PETER'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
He grabs the neck of his shirt and bows his head, hardly able
to breathe.
CATHY’S HOUSE – KITCHEN – EVENING
Cathy is at the stove making dinner. The table is set.
CATHY
(hollers)
Ben, dinner’s ready.
BEN (O.S.)
(hollers)
I‘m not hungry.
CATHY
(hollers)
You need you to come down.
BEN (O.S.)
(hollers)
I’m studying!
CATHY
(sternly)
I’d like you to come down now!
She begins placing dinner on the table. Moments later Ben
enters visibly unhappy.
BEN
(irritably)
What?
CATHY
Sit down.
Ben reluctantly sits down at the table across from her.
BEN
I told you I’m not hungry.
CATHY
Your principal called me today. He
said you’re having a problem with one
of your teachers.
BEN
(tight-lipped)
Yeah. So?
CATHY
He said you got really angry.
BEN
(wary, his body stiffening)
What else did he say?
CATHY
He said I should talk to you.
Ben doesn't respond. He holds his breath.
CATHY (CONT’D)
So, what’s going on?
pause.
BEN
(less tense, unconvincingly)
Um...I got a B on a test, and he
should have given me an A.
CATHY
(suspiciously)
I don’t think your principal would
call me just because you were upset
with a teacher about a grade.
BEN
(dismissively)
Whatever.
Ben starts nervously shaking his leg and clenches his fist.
CATHY
He also said you’ve been cutting
classes.
Ben averts his eyes and remains silent trying to stay in
control.
CATHY (CONT’D)
Ben, I don’t know what’s going on, but
I’m too busy to play twenty questions
with you. So, what is it?
BEN
I told you I got a B.
CATHY
There’s gotta be more to it than that.
BEN
Yeah, my teacher’s an asshole and gave
me a B. Okay?
CATHY
If you won’t talk to me, then I’ll
talk to the principal.
BEN
Fine. I’ll go to class.
CATHY
Ben, you’re not going to always see
eye-to-eye with everyone. So, if you
have a problem with one of your
teachers, work it out.
Ben stares at her silently.
CATHY (CONT’D)
Why is everything a fight with you
lately?
He doesn’t respond.
CATHY (CONT’D)
(frustrated)
Alright, I’m driving you to school
tomorrow, and you’re going to check in
at the principal’s office, so I know
you’re there. Do you understand?
Ben’s leg shakes faster.
BEN
(clenches his jaw)
We done?
Ben stands and starts to walks out.
CATHY
Ben, dinner.
BEN
(beat)
(looks down and shakes his head)
I’m not hungry.
He walks slowly out.
Cathy pushes away her dinner plate and slumps back in the
chair with a look of frustration.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
27 -
Silent Tensions
INT. CATHY'S CAR - MORNING
Cathy and Ben drive to Ben's school in silence. The car comes
to a stop in front of the school. Ben reaches for the door
handle, opens the door, and begins to step out.
CATHY
Ben, check in at the principal's
office, and then go to your classes.
His eyes looking forward, he doesn't acknowledge her.
CATHY (CONT'D)
(directly)
Do you understand?
(beat)
Ben?
BEN
(irritated)
I heard you.
Ben exits the car, slamming the door behind him. Cathy
looking troubled watches as Ben, expressionless, walks toward
the school entrance and disappears inside.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
28 -
A Cry for Help
INT. DEXTER HIGH - HISTORY CLASSROOM - MORNING
The students sit at their desks waiting for an exam to begin.
Ben looking tired and a little disheveled enters late.
FINN
(gently)
I'm glad you're here, Ben.
He ignores Finn and walks slowly to his desk and sits down.
FINN (CONT’D)
Alright, you have 50 minutes. Use your
time wisely. Starting...now.
The students turn over the exams and start writing.
Finn sits at his desk, working on his laptop.
Ben writes his name on the cover of the Blue Book and stares
off blankly.
The wall clock ticks forward, showing the passing of 50
minutes.
FINN (CONT'D)
And time's up. Close your blue books.
Please place them in the bin on my
desk as you leave.
The bell rings ending the class.
The students gather their things and file out, dropping their
blue books into the bin.
Ben is the last to leave. His body language--shoulders
hunched shows that he is teetering on the edge, now stripped
of his confidence in school and the pool. His behavior is
getting more erratic.
Finn picks up Ben's blue book and opens; it‘s blank. He
watches Ben with a look of exasperation and frustration on
his face and throws the blue back into the bin.
INT. DEXTER HIGH - PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE - LATER
Peters sits at his desk typing. Finn knocks on his door.
Peters looks up.
FINN
(his face troubled)
Tom, it's Ben. He's in trouble. We
have to do something now.
PETERS
Alright, it's time we bring in his
mother for a meeting. I'll try and
schedule it for tomorrow morning.
INT. DEXTER HIGH - PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE - EVENING
Peters picks up the phone and calls Cathy's cell.
He listens as it rings.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
29 -
Concealed Worries
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - SAME TIME
Ben is in the kitchen drinking from a carton of orange juice.
Cathy's phone is sitting on the counter.
The cell phone rings.
CATHY (O.S.)
(hollering)
Ben, can you get that?
BEN
(hollering back)
Okay.
He picks up the phone and looks at the screen.
BEN'S POV:
The caller ID registers Dexter High School. He immediately
sends the call to voicemail.
CATHY (O.S.)
(hollering)
Who is it?
He swallows hard and starts panting before answering.
BEN
(hollers back)
It's spam!
Ben sees a voicemail notification and with a look of dread on
his face listens to it.
MR. PETERS (V.O.)
"Ms. Michaels, Tom Peters. Ben isn't
doing well. I think we need to meet as
soon as possible. Can you come by my
office tomorrow at around 8:00? I
think Ben should be at the meeting,
too. Please let me know."
His hand hovers over the phone. He hesitates, his hand
trembling, and deletes the voicemail.
Genres:
["Drama","Teen"]
Ratings
Scene
30 -
Urgent Call from Dexter High
INT. CATHY'S OFFICE - MORNING
Cathy is sitting at her desk in a stylish, contemporary
office looking over some papers. Her cell rings. She glances
at the caller ID and sees "Dexter High School." She answers
it.
INTERCUT:
INT. DEXTER HIGH - PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE
CATHY
Hello?
PETERS
Ms. Michaels?
CATHY
Mr. Peters.
PETERS
I'm calling to follow up on the
message I left you yesterday.
CATHY
Message? I'm sorry, I don't recall
getting a message from you yesterday.
PETERS
I called around 6:15.
CATHY
I was home, but I didn't...my phone
did ring, and I asked Ben to get it.
He must have seen it was you and
erased it.
PETERS
He's really struggling. I think we
need to meet right away to discuss how
we can help him. Can you come by
tomorrow morning at 8?
CATHY
Certainly.
PETERS
We think Ben should be there, too.
CATHY
I'll make sure he is.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
31 -
Tensions in the Kitchen
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - LATER
Ben, looking more unkempt, enters into the kitchen through
the outside door, closing it quietly behind him.
He throws his backpack on the counter, goes to the
refrigerator, takes out a carton of orange juice, and drinks
from it. He puts it back in the refrigerator. Cathy enters
the kitchen startling him.
CATHY
(with an edge)
Where've you been?
BEN
(wary)
At Emma's.
CATHY
Could you at least have called to let
me know you weren't going to be home
for dinner?
BEN
(sheepishly)
Um...sorry, I forgot.
The tension between them is building.
CATHY
I called you three times and left
messages.
BEN
(doesn't look her in the eyes)
I must have had my phone turned off.
CATHY
Is your phone on now?
Ben doesn't respond.
CATHY (CONT'D)
Let me see your phone.
The tension between them is palpable.
BEN
I'm going up to my room. I've got
homework to do.
CATHY
(fed up)
Stop! Sit down.
Ben stands still.
CATHY (CONT'D)
Now!
Ben sits down, and Cathy sits across from him.
CATHY (CONT'D)
Why are you lying to me? You weren't
at Emma's. Where were you, Ben?
Ben sits silently and glares at her.
CATHY (CONT'D)
(quietly)
Why won't you talk to me?
BEN
(agitated)
I'm going up to my room.
He stands up and starts to leave.
CATHY
I know you erased the message from
your principal.
Ben is stopped dead in his tracks. He shuts his eyes and
takes a deep breath.
CATHY (CONT'D)
He called me today. What is going on?
BEN
(angrily)
Nothing is going on. How many times do
I have to say it?
CATHY
(forcefully)
I've had it, Ben. You're lying, you're
breaking promises, you're sneaking
around. What do you after you check
in?
BEN
(agitated)
I go to the library.
CATHY
Then what do you do all day?
BEN
(angry)
It's a library. What do you think I do
there?
beat.
CATHY
(speaks earnestly)
Ben, why don't you talk to me anymore?
BEN
(sarcastically)
Is that really a question you want an
answer to?
CATHY
(sharply, fed up)
Fine. We're having a meeting tomorrow
morning at school with the principal,
your teacher and the school counselor.
Whatever is going on, it's got to
stop.
Ben averts his eyes. His face tightens, and he clenches his
fist.
CATHY (CONT'D)
(beat)
(sighs in frustration, lighter)
I put your dinner in the refrigerator.
You can put it in the microwave.
Ben...
BEN
(agitated, he leans toward her)
I'm not hungry!
CATHY
Ben...
He storms out forgetting to take his backpack with him.
She sighs deeply, concern written all over her face.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
32 -
Descent into Darkness
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - BEN'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ben bursts into the room slamming the door behind him. He
collapses onto the bed, staring blankly at the ceiling. He
tries to steady himself, but he is at the point of almost
hyperventilating, his agitation growing by the second.
He suddenly jumps off the bed.
BEN
(with growing desperation)
Fuck, fuck, fuck...
He puts on a pair of headphones and cranks up the volume.
Loud music blares as he paces back and forth like a caged
animal. He takes off the headphones and drops them on the
floor. He pulls his phone out of his pocket.
BEN'S POV:
He scrolls to find Finn's contact and types a text.
BEN (CONT'D) (TEXT)
Mr. T, I'm in trouble.
He hesitates, then throws the phone on the bed without
sending it.
BEN (CONT'D)
(desperate)
Stupid, stupid, stupid...
A dark thought stops Ben's pacing. His eyes dart to the desk.
He hurriedly sits down and yanks open the top drawer.
POV-OVER BEN'S SHOULDER:
He rummages around it until he finds the Exacto knife.
We hear his heartbeat pounding in his chest as he takes the
knife out and slams the drawer shut.
FLASHBACK BEGINS:
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - BATHROOM - EVENING
YOUNG BEN #1 (12) with an innocent, yet knowing stare, is
sitting in the bathtub, his arms crossed hiding his torso.
BILL (40s), Ben's step-father, is an attractive man dressed
in casual clothes. Bill stands in the doorway staring at Ben
with a predatory look.
He slowly steps into the bathroom and shuts the door behind
him.
FLASHBACK ENDS.
Ben slowly puts his right forearm on the desk, palm up. He
stares down at his wrist.
He opens the knife and then slowly puts the blade on his
wrist lengthwise.
FLASHBACK BEGINS:
Genres:
["Drama","Psychological Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
33 -
Descent into Darkness
INT. DEXTER HIGH - LOCKER ROOM SHOWERS - DAY
Ben (17) is about to enter the showers when he sees Finn
showering. He's stopped cold and looks dumbstruck. His breath
catches in his throat. Ben stares at Finn.
Finn looks up and sees Ben. Ben looks down and realizes he's
becoming physically aroused.
FLASHBACK ENDS.
Ben looks straight ahead, his breathing slowing and
deepening. He becomes eerily calm. There is no emotion on his
face.
FLASHBACK BEGINS:
YOUNG BEN #2(12) is lying in his darkened bedroom face down.
His eyes are wide open in a vacant, yet anguished stare.
Looming at the foot of the bed is Bill.
Bill is seen as a black silhouetted figure, except for a band
of light that illuminates part of his face. He steps toward
Young Ben, and we see his whole face, his eyes laser focused
on Young Ben.
FLASHBACK ENDS.
Ben closes his eyes and slits his wrist.
Blood spreads on the desk and carpet as he drops the knife to
the floor.
Genres:
["Drama","Psychological Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
34 -
A Desperate Plea
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Cathy approaches Ben's closed bedroom door carrying his
backpack. She knocks on the door, but there is no response.
She opens the door.
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - BEN'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
CATHY
Ben you for....
She finds Ben slumped over the desk with his arms dangling
limply and bleeding. The Exacto knife rests on the blood-
soaked carpet beneath him.
CATHY (CONT'D)
(screaming)
Ben!
She runs to him frantically.
CATHY (CONT'D)
Ben...Ben...
She leans him up.
BEN
(barely audible)
Tell Mr. T not to hate me.
He passes out.
Genres:
["Drama","Psychological Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
35 -
Urgent Call
INT. FINN'S HOUSE - BEDROOM - NIGHT
Finn and Dylan are in bed sleeping when Finn's cell phone
rings waking them both. Finn rolls over and turns on the lamp
on the bedside table, then he picks up his phone and looks at
the screen.
FINN
(yawning)
I don't recognize the number.
DYLAN
Don't answer it.
The phone stops ringing. Finn puts down the phone, turns off
the light, and lies back down. A few seconds later, the phone
rings again.
FINN
Goddammit!
DYLAN
Just answer it and tell them they've
got the wrong number.
Finn answers the phone.
FINN
Hello?...Yeah, this is Finn Thomas.
Who is this?...Could you slow down,
please?
(bolts upright)
Oh, my God!...Yes...I'll be there as
soon as I can. I'm leaving right now.
Finn leaps out of bed and runs to the closet. He urgently
gets dressed.
DYLAN
(concerned)
Finn, what's going on?
FINN
(rushed)
Ben. The boy with the crush on me.
DYLAN
Yeah?
FINN
He slit his wrists.
Dylan bolts upright.
DYLAN
What?! Oh, my God. Finn, you didn't do
anything wrong.
Finn bolts out of the bedroom. We hear the front door slam
shut and the sound of Finn's car speeding off.
Dylan flops back down on the bed concern etched on his face.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
36 -
A Mother's Regret
INT. HOSPITAL CORRIDOR - CONTINUOUS
The hospital elevator doors open and Finn rushes out into the
sterile environment of the hospital floor.
There is large desk where nurses and aides sit.
There are IV poles and wheelchairs in the corridor and the
beeping sounds of monitors are heard.
Finn spots Cathy standing outside Ben's hospital room, her
eyes are red and puffy from crying and her blouse stained
with blood. He runs over to her.
CATHY
(softly, voice unsteady)
Finn, thank you for coming.
FINN
(out-of-breath)
How is he?
CATHY
He's out of surgery and in his room.
Now, he just lies there staring at the
ceiling. He won't talk to anyone.
(her voice falters)
All he said was to tell you not to
hate him...like he's done something
unforgiveable.
FINN
(surprised)
Hate him?
CATHY
Mr. Peters called me...said there was
some issue between you two. But I
don't understand. He always speaks so
highly of you.
(choking up)
Your approval is everything to him. He
wouldn't do something like this just
because of a grade.
Finn pauses, then struggles to find the words.
FINN
(haltingly)
You...you can't...um...please don't
tell Ben I told you this, but...he
told me that he has a crush on me.
After he said it, he became really
upset. I've tried to talk to him, but
he's kept avoiding me. I texted him,
and he didn't respond. He wouldn't
talk to Tom Peters either and...
CATHY
(deep sigh)
Well, he sure hasn't had an easy time
of it.
FINN
What do you mean?
CATHY
(hesitantly)
Mark, Ben's father, and I didn't
intend to have children. Mark never
warmed to Ben. He resented him. Then
he got sick, and between work and
taking care of him, Ben got lost in
the shuffle.
FINN
How old was he?
CATHY
Seven.
FINN
I lost my dad my senior year in
college. It was hard, but...7.
CATHY
I remarried when Ben was 12. I thought
he and Bill had a good relationship.
Then Ben stopped wanting to be around
him. I guess I thought it was just
normal teenage stuff.
(beat)
But then I found out that Bill had
been molesting him.
FINN
(taken by surprise)
What?
CATHY
Afterward, I did everything they told
me to.
(beat)
I took him to a counselor. Sat in the
waiting room week after week. But he
wouldn't talk to him.
FINN
Not at all?
CATHY
The doctor said he wasn't ready, but
that I should watch him and if
anything changed to call him.
FINN
And you never had to?
CATHY
No, he acted like a normal kid. He
kept his grades up. He still swam. Had
friends. I thought...
(beat)
I suppose I convinced myself he was
okay.
FINN
Ms. Michaels, Ben is a strong kid.
CATHY
(quietly)
Yeah.
(beat)
After he spoke to you, he must have
felt so alone, so humiliated and
ashamed...rejected again.
FINN
Ms. Michaels, if I had known...
CATHY
(deeply emotional)
It's not your fault. It's mine.
(beat)
He's gay. So what?
(beat)
He didn't have to do this. He could
have told me. I would have been there
for him...
(beat, sighs)
this time.
(looks away, bitter half-laugh)
Mother of the Year.
FINN
(sighs)
Ms. Michaels...
CATHY
(apologetically)
I shouldn't have called you. I just
didn't know what else to do. Maybe,
he'll talk to you. I'm afraid for him.
I've never seen him like this.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
37 -
Heartfelt Reassurance
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - CONTINUOUS
The door to the room is slightly ajar. The small room has a
sterile look and feel without even a picture. Ben is hooked
up to medical equipment. He lies motionless, staring blankly
at the ceiling.
Finn enters the room cautiously trying to hold back his
emotions.
FINN
(quietly)
Ben?
Ben keeps staring at the ceiling blankly.
FINN (CONT'D)
Ben, can I come in?
Ben turns his head and sees Finn. He bursts into tears,
sobbing uncontrollably, his body trembling. Finn grabs a
chair and takes it to the side of Ben's bed and sits down.
BEN
(whispers desperately)
Please don't hate me, Mr. T.
FINN
(gently)
I could never hate you, Ben.
BEN
I'm sorry for what I said.
FINN
You don't have to be sorry. I'm cool
with it. I have to admit I was a
little surprised. To be honest, I
thought you were talking about Emma.
BEN
She's just my friend.
FINN
Did you talk to her at all about how
you were feeling?
BEN
Not unless I wanted the whole school
to know.
Finn gives a little smile, Ben a little, too.
BEN (CONT'D)
(sounding defeated)
Did you have to tell Mr. Peters?
FINN
(quietly)
I did. There are rules. And you were
so upset. When you didn't answer my
text or show up for class or the meet,
I needed help to know what to do. The
last thing I would ever want to do is
hurt you, Ben. I was worried about
you.
BEN
(increasing emotional)
I saw you holding hands with Dylan at
the movie and then you were kissing
him in the park, and I wanted it to be
me. And I can't sleep anymore or
concentrate. I try not to think about
you, but I can't. And now everybody
will know how pathetic I am. I just
want to disappear, Mr. T.
Finn moves from the chair and sits next to Ben on the bed.
BEN (CONT'D)
When I did it, I didn't feel anything.
(anguished)
I don't want you to see me like this.
FINN
It's okay, Ben. There's nothing to be
ashamed of here.
BEN
I don't want to be like this.
FINN
You didn't do anything wrong. You like
me, and I'm flattered, and I like you
too. But it has to be in a different
way. And you know why, don't you?
Ben nods his head. Ben's nose is running. Finn takes a tissue
from the box on Ben's tray table and puts it over Ben's nose.
FINN (CONT'D)
Blow.
Ben blows his nose in the tissue. Finn takes the tissue by
the corner and drops it into the waste basket next to the
bed.
FINN (CONT’D)
Gross. I'm kinda guessing that, maybe,
this is the first time you've ever
told another guy that you liked him.
Ben nods his head.
FINN (CONT'D)
Yeah, I thought so.
(gentle laugh)
You know you dented the locker. How
are your knuckles?
BEN
(calmer)
Still kinda hurts.
FINN
That's what you get for picking a
fight with a piece of metal
(Ben gives a little smile)
I want you back in class. There's no
one as snarky as you to keep me on my
toes.
BEN
I wish I was like you.
FINN
I think you might want to work on
being you for now. We good?
BEN
We good.
They gently “fist bump”.
FINN
(small reassuring smile)
You're going to get through this, Ben.
I promise. You should rest now. You’ve
been through a lot. I'll check in with
you later.
Ben musters a small smile and nods his head.
Finn exits the room, closing the door slowly and gently
behind him.
INT. HOSPITAL CORRIDOR - CONTINUOUS
Finn leans against the wall looking shaken.
FINN
(sighs deeply)
Oh, Ben.
EXT. DEXTER HIGH - COURTYARD - AFTERNOON
Emma walks through the courtyard. She takes out her phone and
calls Ben. There is no answer. She leaves a message.
EMMA
(worried look)
Hey, Dickwad. You haven't been in
class. Where are you? Why aren't you
returning my calls? If you're ghosting
me, I will haunt your dreams.
Seriously, Ben. What's going on? Call
me!...I hate you.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
38 -
Confrontation in Therapy
INT. HOSPITAL PSYCH UNIT - DR. CARSON'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
Ben sits rigidly in a comfortable chair in DR. MARK CARSON'S
office at the hospital. The office is warm and serene.
Dr. Carson (40's) has a demeanor that is calm, and soft-
spoken, but professional. He sits in a comfortable chair
facing Ben.
DR. CARSON
Do you think it would be helpful if we
asked Mr. Thomas to join us for one of
our sessions?
BEN
(guarded)
Why?
DR. CARSON
You've had a lot of feelings about
him. It might be useful to express
them somewhere neutral, where you
won't feel judged by anyone, including
yourself.
BEN
(irritated)
Why are we even talking about him?
DR. CARSON
Your mom told me that the only thing
you asked for was Mr. Thomas not to
hate you. What did you mean by that?
BEN
I don't want him to see me like this.
DR. CARSON
Like what?
BEN
(dismissive)
Never mind.
DR. CARSON
What do you think is behind your
anger?
BEN
(a little angry)
Because she found me. Because I don't
want to be here.
(beat)
You don't have the right to keep me
here.
DR. CARSON
(calmly)
You're a minor, Ben. Your mom and I
think this is the safest place for you
right now. There are other kids here
who understand what you're going
through. If you don't want to talk to
me, maybe, you could talk to them. But
if you really want to leave, once I
assess that you're not a danger to
yourself, I'll discharge you.
BEN
Good.
DR. CARSON
Do you think what happened with Mr.
Thomas triggered everything? Was it
just what you said to him, or do you
think there are other things going on,
too?
BEN
(shifting in his seat)
It was just a mistake.
DR. CARSON
You expressed a feeling. That's pretty
normal, don't you think? I suspect you
haven't expressed many for a long
time. Now you are, and it can feel
pretty frightening and overwhelming.
DR. CARSON (CONT'D)
But feelings are part of what makes us
human.
BEN
Wow, Dr. Carson, you really have me
all figured out.
DR. CARSON
It's normal to feel angry because of
what you've been through. But the
anger also pushes people away.
BEN
(getting agitated)
I want to be left alone.
DR. CARSON
I think your anger makes you feel that
you're in control, but the intensity
of it also frightens you. Talking
about your feelings is difficult, but
it's necessary. I know it sounds
trite, but it doesn't make it any less
true.
BEN
(more agitated)
I don't want to talk to you.
DR. CARSON
Ben, I'm not your enemy. My only
purpose here is to help you.
BEN
If you really want to help, let me go
home.
Ben stands to leave.
DR. CARSON
Ben, couldn't you just try it for a
couple of days. You don't have to go
to everything. Pick anything you want.
You don't have to even say anything.
You can just sit and listen.
BEN
(firmly and deliberately)
There's nothing you can do for me
here, because I'm just as guilty as he
is.
DR. CARSON
Why do you say that?
BEN
(escalating)
Because, maybe, sometimes I didn't
hate it. Sometimes I liked it.
Sometimes it felt good. Maybe, I even
wanted it to happen.
Ben moves to the door.
DR. CARSON
So, you're at fault? I've heard what
you just said from abuse victims
throughout my career. I'm not
dismissing your feelings. I just want
you to know that you're not alone in
having conflicting feelings about
something that's confusing and
disturbing.
Ben gets more agitated and is pacing like he is trapped with
no escape.
BEN
(angry)
Stop!
DR. CARSON
He groomed you. You were so young you
didn't understand what was happening
to you. Ben, you didn't have the words
to express yourself, so you suppressed
your feelings.
BEN
(anger)
Stop! You're not listening to me!
DR. CARSON
It was all self-preservation. He tried
to convince you that what he was doing
was normal. But deep down, you had a
feeling it was wrong.
BEN
Stop! I don't want to talk about it!
DR. CARSON
If you don't talk about what happened,
you're going to try it again, and
there will be a next time. If not with
pills, or ropes or razor blades, then,
maybe, it will be a gun. And I can
assure you, you'll succeed.
BEN
(ready to explode)
Stop! Stop talking!
DR. CARSON
If you take your life, Ben, you take a
part of Mr. Thomas's life, too. He may
well feel he failed you for the rest
of his life. Do you want that for the
man you care about so much?
Ben becomes overwhelmed, closing his eyes and breathing
heavily. His pain and anger well up. He is trying to hold
himself together.
DR. CARSON (CONT'D)
Ben?
BEN
(explosive anger)
I fucking hate you!
He storms out and slams the door behind him. Dr. Carson
exhales deeply, his concern evident.
Genres:
["Drama","Psychological"]
Ratings
Scene
39 -
The Deceptive Escape
INT. HOSPITAL PSYCH UNIT - BEN'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ben angrily enters his small, spare, non-descript room,
slamming the door behind him. Besides a bed, there is a small
desk. He paces back and forth, getting more agitated. He
suddenly stops.
He places pillows under the covers of his bed to make it
appear as if he's in it.
He leaves the room and quietly shuts the door behind him,
then quickly walks to the unattended unit secretary's desk.
INT. HOSPITAL PSYCH UNIT - STAFF ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ben sneaks into the staff room behind the unattended unit
secretary's desk.
In the small, windowless room, there is a nondescript sofa, a
couple of comfortable chairs and a table for the staff to sit
around. There are purses and pocketbooks out in the open. Ben
quickly rifles through them, stuffing whatever money he can
find in his pocket.
BEN
(hurrying, agitated)
Come on, Come on, Come on.
He watches cautiously until the hallway leading off the unit
is empty and leaves unnoticed.
Genres:
["Drama","Psychological Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
40 -
Desperate Preparations
EXT. CATHY'S HOUSE - AFTERNOON
A taxi pulls up in front of Cathy’s house. Ben gets out and
walks to the front door. He removes a house key from a small
box buried under a pile of stones next to the front door, and
lets himself in.
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - BEN'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
He runs upstairs to his bedroom, grabs his journal and puts
it in his backpack then runs downstairs to the den.
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - DEN - CONTINUOUS
He takes a full bottle of vodka from the liquor cabinet,
stuffs it in his backpack, and runs downstairs to the rec
room.
INT. CATHY'S HOUSE - REC ROOM - CONTINUOUS
He opens a closet and rummages around until he finds a small
box. He opens it and takes out a handgun, loads it and puts
it in the backpack.
Genres:
["Drama","Psychological Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
41 -
Descent into Despair
EXT. CITY STREETS - CONTINUOUS
Ben swigs vodka as he furiously rides his bike, weaving
recklessly in and out of traffic until he gets to Fox Park.
EXT. FOX PARK - CONTINUOUS
Ben arrives at Fox Park and rides his bike to his usual spot.
He drops his bike and virtually collapses to the ground.
He takes out the vodka and takes a couple of swigs.
He removes the gun, looks at it, hesitates, and lays it by
his side.
He takes out his journal and begins to read it, stopping
occasionally to rip a page out of it.
EXT. DEXTER HIGH SCHOOL - PARKING LOT - AFTERNOON
Finn exits the school and walks to his car when his phone
rings. He looks at the screen and answers it.
FINN
(concerned)
Cathy?...When did he leave?... I'm
just leaving school...No, he's not
here. I haven't heard from him...I
don't know where he would be, I'm
sorry. If I hear from him, I'll let
you know.
Finn exhales exasperated. He walks to his car looking
distracted, gets in and drives off.
INT. FINN'S CAR - AFTERNOON
Finn is driving when suddenly he knows where Ben is. He makes
a fast U-turn and speeds away.
Genres:
["Drama","Psychological Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
42 -
A Moment of Despair and Hope
EXT. FOX PARK - CONTINUOUS
Finn arrives at Fox Park and parks his car. He gets out and
sprints to where he knows he will find Ben.
He sees Ben slumped against the tree, drunk. The bottle of
vodka lies next to him.
Ben is slowly tearing out pages of his journal and swigging
vodka.
Finn approaches, his steps cautious. He doesn't want to
startle Ben, but there is a quiet urgency in the way he
moves.
FINN
(soft, steady)
Ben?
Ben doesn't look up, his focus intent of shredding another
page from the journal.
BEN
Hey...Mr. T.
FINN
(voice gentle)
What's going on?
BEN
(sounding defeated)
I'm disappearing.
He rips out another page.
Ben is dissociating like he is out his body.
BEN (CONT'D)
Pretty soon, there's not gonna be
anything left of me.
FINN
Can we talk?
He sits next to Ben.
BEN
Nothing to talk about. I'm a such a
screw up, Mr. T, I couldn't even do
this right.
Ben shows his wrists. Finn doesn't flinch, but his face
clouds over with growing concern.
FINN
What are you gonna do, Ben?
BEN
(teetering on the edge)
No blades this time.
He picks up the gun and shows it to Finn, then he puts it
back down. Finn tenses but stays calm.
BEN (CONT'D)
Don't worry, Mr. T, I'd never hurt
you.
FINN
I know you wouldn't, Ben.
(beat)
Where did you get the gun?
Ben doesn't answer, his gaze slipping back to the journal.
Finn watches him, seeing the way his hands shake as he tears
another page, slowly and deliberately.
FINN (CONT'D)
Let's go back to the hospital, Ben. We
can talk better there.
BEN
I'm not going back. Not to the
hospital, not to school, not anywhere.
I'm done, Mr. T.
Finn doesn't push, but his voice stays steady and gentle.
FINN
You don't have to do this, Ben.
BEN
(hopeless)
Yes, I do. They all want me to talk
about it...about stuff I just want to
forget.
With a sharp jerk, Ben rips out another page, the force more
violent now.
FINN
(quietly)
I know about what Bill did to you.
Ben pauses mid-tear, his body freezing for a moment.
BEN
(tearful)
I wish I could be like you, Mr. T.
Then I'd be worth something to
somebody. I don't think anyone could
ever like you more than I do. Could
you ever like someone like me, if they
weren't so messed up?
Finn doesn't break eye contact, his voice gentle but steady.
FINN
(soft, but firm)
Can I have the gun, Ben?
Finn reaches slowly for the gun. Ben recoils, fear flashing
across his face.
BEN
(anguished, cowers)
No! Don't touch me...please.
FINN
(gently)
I'm not going to hurt you. I just want
the gun.
Ben's body is tense, but his face remains calm. Finn's hand
moves slowly. Ben watches him, eyes wide, before reluctantly,
letting Finn take the gun.
Finn empties the cylinder, the bullets dropping into his
palm. He puts them in his pocket and sets the gun down.
BEN
(voice breaking)
He would come to my room...I've felt
dirty for so long, Mr. T. Nobody knows
what it's like...to shower and never
feel clean.
FINN
(teary, almost a whisper)
You're not dirty, Ben. None of it was
your fault.
BEN
She had to know. She should have
stopped him.
FINN
(a look of realization)
You wanted me to be the one to find
you—-because I'm the only one who knew
you'd be here. Why me, Ben?
BEN
(whispers)
Because...I needed someone to care who
wasn't paid to.
FINN
Let's go back to the hospital. I want
to help you get better.
BEN
(whispering)
You can't save someone who doesn't
wanna be saved, Mr. T.
FINN
You trust me, right?
Ben nods, the movement barely perceptible.
FINN (CONT’D)
Then do it for me.
Ben's body trembles and his voice breaks as tears stream down
his face.
BEN
(whispering)
I'm scared, Mr. T.
FINN
Me too, Ben.
Finn puts his arm around Ben’s shoulder, and Ben rests his
head on it.
INT. FINN'S CAR - CONTINUOUS
Finn and Ben sit in silence as they drive back to the
hospital. They arrive at the hospital, where Cathy is
standing out front. Finn parks the car.
FINN
You ready?
Ben nods that he is.
They exit the car and walk toward the front door. Cathy tries
to hug Ben, but he walks past, ignoring her. The three enter
the hospital.
Genres:
["Drama","Psychological Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
43 -
Tension in the Evening
INT. FINN'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - EVENING
Finn walks from the kitchen into the living room wearing
sweatpants and a T-shirt, drinking a beer. Dylan enters the
room wearing a business suit. He walks over to Finn and gives
him a quick kiss.
FINN
You want me to get you a beer?
DYLAN
Sure.
Finn walks to the fridge and takes out a beer while Dylan
takes off his jacket and tie and throws them on the sofa.
FINN
I thought I'd make a salad and grill
some salmon tonight. That okay?
DYLAN
Sounds good. How was your day?
Finn walks over and gives Dylan a kiss and the beer.
FINN
It was hard.
DYLAN
Why, what happened?
FINN
(sighs)
Ben ran away from the hospital. Nobody
knew where he went...except me.
DYLAN
You? Where was he?
FINN
By the pond in Fox Park.
DYLAN
What?
FINN
He goes there when he's stressed.
Dylan goes behind Finn, kisses his shoulder and starts to
massage his neck. Finn drops his head forward.
FINN (CONT'D)
God, that feels good.
DYLAN
Man, you're tight.
He massages harder. Finn moans with pleasure.
DYLAN (CONT'D)
What was going on with him?
FINN
It's a long story. Anyway, I took him
back to the hospital. I think I'm out
of it for now.
DYLAN
Good, and you need to stay out.
FINN
(irritated)
Don't start, Dylan.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
44 -
A Moment of Choice
INT. HOSPITAL CORRIDOR - AFTERNOON
CHAD (40s) is a group therapist. He is a gentle giant who
looks imposing, and is anything but.
He walks down the corridor to Ben's room.
INT. HOSPITAL PSYCH UNIT - BEN'S ROOM - AFTERNOON
Ben is sitting at the desk and writing in his journal when
Chad appears in the doorway.
CHAD
Hey, Ben. Group's starting. You up for
it?
BEN
(ignoring him)
Yeah, probably not.
CHAD
It's been a couple of days.
BEN
Yeah, I know. I'm working.
CHAD
On what?
BEN
(looks up, snarky)
Suicide note.
Chad nods unfazed. He doesn't flinch.
CHAD
(smiles, with gentle humor)
Dark.
Ben says nothing.
CHAD (CONT'D)
If you change your mind, you know
where we are.
Ben watches Chad walk off. He shifts slightly in his chair--a
part of him wants to go--but stops.
He clenches his jaw, drops his eyes, then bows his head.
Genres:
["Drama","Psychological"]
Ratings
Scene
45 -
Breaking Silence
INT. HOSPITAL PSYCH UNIT - PRIVATE LOUNGE - AFTERNOON
The lounge is small and private, designed to be warm and
inviting.
Cathy and Dr. Carson sit tensely in the comfortable chairs.
Finn is on edge, standing with a coffee cup, feeling out of
his element.
CATHY
(hesitantly)
He's not getting better.
DR. CARSON
When Ben gets close to talking about
something painful, he gets angry and
lashes out. It’s his way of trying to
stay in control. It’s not an uncommon
reaction. But over the last few days
he‘s been withdrawing, and that
concerns me.
CATHY
(hesitant)
I didn’t tell you that...this wasn’t
the first time.
(beat)
When Ben was 14 he...swallowed a
bottle of pills.
FINN
(serious)
Because of the abuse?
DR. CARSON
That and the shame. He won't talk
about what happened because then he'd
have to accept the fact that it did.
He’s spent years trying to deny it.
FINN
(hesitant, confused)
I guess…I don't understand why it’s me
that he…
(beat)
Dr. Carson, did I do something wrong
that made Ben think I…
CATHY
(reassuring)
No, Finn, you didn’t! You’ve been so
kind to Ben.
DR. CARSON
Mark and Bill were the two most
important men in Ben's life, and what
they did to him at such a young age
was devastating. To cope he buried his
feelings.
FINN
Until me?
DR. CARSON
Finn, when you entered Ben’s life he
began to have feelings that confused
him. They excited him, but they also
frightened him. He couldn‘t reconcile
the two. When he told you how he felt,
the boundary you had to draw felt like
another rejection to him. Another
humiliation. It overwhelmed him, and
he saw only one way out.
FINN
I don't know what...
(beat)
(concerned)
What if I say the wrong thing?
CATHY
You won’t.
DR. CARSON
We can't keep him here much longer,
Finn. You're the only one he trusts
right now. If we don’t reach him soon,
we might not have another chance.
FINN
I care about Ben, and I want to help.
But, I guess, I don’t know what he
needs from me?
DR. CARSON
I think…right now, he needs to know
that you still believe in him. For
Ben, that might be enough of a reason
to stay alive.
Finn nervously fidgets with the coffee cup, his face has a
worried look. He stands in stunned silence.
There is a soft knock on the door. Ben enters, hesitating
when sees them all together.
BEN
(surprised, angry)
No way.
He turns to leave.
CATHY
Ben...
BEN
What?
DR. CARSON
We just want to talk to you.
BEN
What's Mr. T. doing here?
CATHY
I asked him to come.
BEN
Without asking me first? Mom, how
could you do this to me? Do you think
I haven't been humiliated enough?
DR. CARSON
Ben, why don't you grab a chair and
sit down.
Ben takes a chair from the table and hesitantly places it
near the group.
DR. CARSON (CONT'D)
You're not participating in the
program.
BEN
(pressured)
Because you want me to talk about it
all the time. I just want to forget
it.
DR. CARSON
The point is...
BEN
(sarcastically)
I know what the point is.
DR. CARSON
Alright, Ben. What do you want in
return for giving the program a
chance?
BEN
(snarky)
I want to fuck, Mr. T.
Finn nearly chokes on his coffee.
FINN
Oh, jeez, I'm sorry. I didn't expect
that.
DR. CARSON
Come on, Ben this isn't a joke. You
made a very serious attempt on your
life.
BEN
I know. But I'm better now. I'm not
going to hurt myself again.
DR. CARSON
Until the next time. Ben, you've spent
years suppressing your feelings until
Finn came into your life.
BEN
And look where it got me.
DR. CARSON
I think you're feeling...
BEN
(flashes with anger)
Don't tell me what I'm feeling.
DR. CARSON
(gently pressing him)
Okay, then you tell us.
BEN
(getting agitated)
I feel like I fucked up the one good
thing I had. In Mr. T's class I didn't
have to be perfect. I could just feel
normal. If I made a mistake, I just
worked harder to do better so that you
might write "good job" or something on
an assignment.
(getting emotional)
I'm sorry, Mr. T. I should have used
the gun.
FINN
It's okay, Ben.
BEN
(getting tense and agitated)
You know what I feel? I feel like
screaming at my dad, "What the fuck
did I do wrong?”
(escalating)
How do you think I felt when I had to
lay there when he...I tried to pretend
I was someone else. That I was
somewhere else. Anywhere but there. I
prayed for someone to help me, but no
one came. I have nightmares...
Cathy has tears streaming down her face.
BEN (CONT’D)
(anguished)
I have feelings...and they won't go
away! They never go away!
(accusingly at Cathy)
You should have protected me!
CATHY
I didn't know.
BEN
(lashing out)
You didn't want to know!
long pause.
BEN (CONT'D)
(voice breaking)
I'm gay, mom. And I'm afraid I'll be a
disappointment to you. And you'll be
like dad.
(beat)
I thought it was because of what Bill
did to me, but it's not.
CATHY
Ben you're not a disappointment. I
would never…
BEN
(numb)
You want me to tell you how I feel,
Dr. Carson? Right now, all I feel is
numb inside. I feel nothing. Because
when you get right down to it, that's
what I am.
FINN
Can I say something?
Finn wipes his eyes.
DR. CARSON
Please.
FINN
I'm a gay, 25-year-old, high school
teacher. I'm not trained in how to
handle something like this. But I'm
kinda caught in the middle here.
BEN
I'm sorry, Mr. T, I...
FINN
Ben, I really like having you in my
class. You're super smart. You're kind
of a smartass, which I like, because
it keeps things interesting. But I'm
your teacher, and I can't have the
kind of relationship you want. I know
right now that's hard to hear,
especially given what your dad and
Bill did to you.
DR. CARSON
Ben, you can't change the past, but
you can understand...
BEN
(angry)
You keep bringing it up and bringing
it up. What do you want me to say?
That I was a victim? Fine. I was a
victim of people who should have cared
about me and protected me and didn't.
There, I said it out loud. I'm all
better now. Okay?
DR. CARSON
Why do you think you're all better?
BEN
(screaming)
Because I survived! I am a fucking
survivor, and I did it all on my own!
DR. CARSON
(calmly)
You tried to kill yourself twice, Ben.
Is that what you call being a
survivor?
BEN
(speaking fast and pressured)
I survived by being the best, so that
I didn't need to depend on anyone else
to tell me I was good enough. I get
straight A's, I got a 1570 on my SAT
as a Sophomore, and I made varsity
swim team as a Freshmen. You know how
many Freshmen made varsity? Two.
(screaming)
I'm a fucking star!
He stands up and kicks over his chair and moves like a
bulldozer to the door. He turns around out of control.
BEN (CONT'D)
(seething)
I don't need you. I don't need any of
you.
He turns and starts punching the wall.
BEN (CONT’D)
I don't need anyone!
Finn runs over to Ben.
FINN
Ben...stop!
He touches Ben's shoulder. Ben turns and recoils with fear.
BEN
(anguished, raw)
Don't touch me!...
(beat)
Please...don't touch me.
Ben collapses slowly against the wall, sliding down until
he's sitting, his arms wrapping around his knees. His face
buried in them. He looks up.
long pause.
BEN (CONT'D)
(voice breaking)
Why am I being punished...just for
liking you?
FINN
(quietly, gently)
Ben...
Finn reaches out, extending his hand with gentle
determination to get Ben on his feet. Ben stares at it,
frozen. He reaches out, but his hand falls short.
BEN
(whispering)
I can't.
Finn squats down.
FINN
(quietly, firm)
Do it for me, Ben...Please.
Finn reaches out his hand.
Ben closes his eyes, his breath shaky. Slowly, with all the
effort he can muster, he reaches again.
Finn pulls him up, their connection lingers for a beat.
Finn guides him back to the group. He rights the chair, and
Ben sinks into it, his body heavy with emotion. Finn grabs a
chair from the table and sits down in front of Ben.
BEN
(exhausted)
I was happy before I met you.
FINN
(quietly, firmly)
No, Ben you're weren't happy; you were
scared. I'm not your dad or Bill. I'm
not rejecting you.
BEN
Aren't you?
FINN
(quietly)
No, I'm not. I'm involved with
someone, so it wouldn't matter if you
were 17 or 27. But, do you think I
don't know what it's like to be afraid
of your feelings, afraid you'll be
found out or rejected. Coming out is
hard.
FINN (CONT'D)
But it gets better, I promise you.
BEN
You don't know that.
FINN
There are a million guys out there who
care about you and want to help you.
And I'm one of them, whether I'm your
teacher or not. But you have to get
healthy first. And this seems like a
good place to start.
(deep breath)
Back in the park you asked me a
question, and I never answered it. Do
you remember it?
BEN
I asked you if you could ever like
someone like me.
FINN
I'll answer it now. But if I do, you
can't come back to my class.
BEN
(confused)
Why?
FINN
Because that's the price. Because if
you come back, I'll either be a
distraction to you, or you to me or
both.
Ben pauses. He straightens up and exhales.
BEN
(firmly)
Alright Mr. T, go for it.
Finn looks at Cathy and Dr. Carson. They nod their heads with
encouragement.
FINN
(deep breath)
If you were 21, and I had met you at a
bar or a party, I'd have gone out for
coffee with you to see if there was
something between us worth pursuing.
There's your answer.
DR. CARSON
Ben could you think of that not as a
"what if," but more as an opportunity?
When you're 21, you may feel
differently than you do now. You'll
meet new people and have new
experiences. But unless you get
healthy, you'll never know who you're
going to become.
CATHY
Ben, what Dr. Carson said. Is that
something you could live with?
pause.
BEN
So, when I'm 21 and healthy, if I
still have feelings for you, and
you're not with someone, you might go
on a date with me?
FINN
(patiently)
Coffee, maybe, and then we'd talk. I
think what Dr. Carson said is pretty
smart, and you're pretty smart,
too...for a swimmer.
BEN
You think I don’t get what you’re
doing? Like you're throwing the
suicidal, abused, closet case a bone
to keep him in the program. Right?
FINN
(gently acknowledging)
Yeah.
BEN
(small shrug, giving in)
Fine. But I want it in writing...in
case of an emergency.
FINN
(a little exasperated, smiling)
You write it up, and I'll sign it.
Trust me, you’re never gonna need it.
(beat)
(earnestly)
Look…Ben…you have to cut yourself some
slack, not your wrists.
(smiling)
College is amazing, Ben, and you only
get to do it once. Give yourself the
chance to see the bigger picture, then
live the life you want, not the life
someone else wants you to. There's a
whole community out there waiting for
you. Get healthy and join us.
(beat)
Don’t wait for me, Ben, because I
won‘t be waiting for you.
BEN
Tough love, right?
FINN
You can handle it.
BEN
Dr. Carson, when will it stop hurting?
DR. CARSON
I wish I could tell you, Ben, but I
can't. But you don't have to have all
the answers right now or tomorrow.
Healing...and coming out...it's a lot
to deal with. It's a process, Ben,
that can be messy and hard, but you
don't have to do it alone.
Ben looks at Cathy, then Finn, and finally Dr. Carson.
BEN
Alright...I'll try.
FINN
We good?
BEN
(mentally exhausted)
We good.
Ben is silent as he slowly gathers himself.
BEN (CONT'D)
Can I go back to my room now?
DR. CARSON
Sure.
Ben, his shoulders hunched and head bowed, walks slowly and
with little energy to the door and leaves.
pause.
FINN
(a little shellshocked)
Are all of your sessions like this?
Dr. Carson has a relieved look on his face.
DR. CARSON
Thankfully not.
The three sit in silence.
Genres:
["Drama","Psychological"]
Ratings
Scene
46 -
A Moment of Connection
INT. HOSPITAL PSYCH UNIT - BEN'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ben sits on this bed, hugging his knees with his head bowed.
Cathy enters hesitantly.
CATHY
(quietly emotional)
Ben?
BEN
(quietly)
I don't want you here.
CATHY
Ben, please just listen to me. I swear
I didn't know until you were at the
hospital after you took the pills. I
asked you if anything was wrong, and
you always said things with Bill were
fine.
BEN
(tears rolling down his cheeks)
I've felt ashamed for so long. I don't
know if I can do this. It's like this
huge wave is crashing into me, and I'm
drowning. It's overwhelming.
CATHY
Finn says you're strong. He believes
in you, and so do I.
BEN
(looking at her)
When I get out of here, I want to live
with Grandma and Grandpa. I'm not
going back to another shit show at
Dexter. And I can't live with you
right now.
CATHY
(reassuringly)
Whatever you need, Ben. I'm not going
anywhere.
BEN
I just need some time.
CATHY
When you have a child, you know you're
going to make mistakes. You just hope
they're not as bad as the ones I made
with you.
BEN
(starts to cry)
Mom?
CATHY
Yes, Ben.
BEN
(whispers)
Will you hold me?
Cathy goes to the bed and sits next to him. She wraps her arm
around his shoulder and gently pulls him to her.
He rests his head on her shoulder as they sit silently.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
47 -
A Visit of Hope
INT. HOSPITAL CORRIDOR-AFTERNOON
Emma walks down the corridor to the nurse's desk.
The nurse points to Ben's room. She goes to Ben's room. She
hesitates then knocks quietly on the door.
INT. HOSPITAL PSYCH UNIT - BEN'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ben is sitting at a small desk in his room doing homework. He
answers the door.
EMMA
Hey.
BEN
Hey.
EMMA
I didn't know if you'd want to see me,
but your mom said you were doing a
little better, and I could come. But
if you're not ready, I can come back
another time.
BEN
No...I'm glad you came. C'mon in.
Emma walks in and looks around. She frowns.
BEN (CONT'D)
Well, welcome to the closet-case-
suicide-suite.
EMMA
Fuck me, it's worse than I imagined.
She sits and bounces on the bed.
EMMA (CONT'D)
(beat)
Jesus, how do you sleep on this?
BEN
Not very well.
EMMA
(quietly)
You could have told me, you know?
BEN
(Ben lowers his eyes.)
I just couldn't.
EMMA
I should have figured it out cuz
you're like the only guy at school
that never tried to get into my
panties.
Ben gives small laugh.
EMMA (CONT'D)
(mock annoyed, trying to lift the
mood.)
But, you ever do any shit like this
again and I will fuck you up.
Seriously, I will fuck...you...up. I
had to pay for an Uber to get here,
Dickwad!
Ben bows his head and cracks a small smile. She rises and
crosses to him and pulls him into a hug-tighter than
expected. He holds on.
EMMA (CONT'D)
(whispers)
I hate you.
BEN
(whispers)
I hate you back.
Neither lets go.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
48 -
A Journey of Growth and Acceptance
INT. HOSPITAL PSYCH UNIT - GROUP THERAPY ROOM - AFTERNOON
Chad and a group of TEENAGE PATIENTS, sit in a circle on
folding chairs. The room is welcoming, calming, and private.
One of the teens is speaking, but we don't hear her. We see
Ben sitting quietly listening, a serious expression on his
face.
DISSOLVE TO:
Chad, Ben and other teenagers, some new, some from before,
sit in a circle.
We see Ben engaged, smiling and laughing with the other
teens. He high fives the teen sitting next to him.
DISSOLVE TO:
Chad, Ben and other teenagers, some new, some from before,
sit in a circle.
BEN
(seriously)
After Bill was gone, I threw myself
into school and sports. Anything to
keep from remembering. Then I started
to have feelings for Mr. T and...
DISSOLVE TO:
Chad, Ben and other teenagers, some new, some from before,
sit in a circle.
CHAD
Today is a special day. It's Ben's
last day in group before his
discharge. Congratulations, Ben.
The teens clap and congratulate him.
CHAD (CONT'D)
Ben, would you like to share anything
with the group?
BEN
Um...yeah. A month ago I came to the
hospital with these...
He shows the scars on his wrists.
TEEN #1
(surprised)
Holy crap!
BEN
...and a lot of anger. I blamed myself
for all of it. But thanks to Dr.
Carson and the people here...and Mr.
T, I learned I was just a kid when
this all began, and that these things
happened to me, not because of me.
I'll never forget what happened. But I
don't have to let it define me.
(beat)
I had trouble feeling okay with being
gay, because I thought there was
something wrong with me.
BEN (CONT'D)
But there's not. It's just who I am.
And I'm okay with that...getting
there, anyway.
TEEN #2
(chiming in)
My bro's gay, and he's cooler than me,
and that says a lot.
The group laughs and gives him a high five.
BEN
Some days it was hard to stay, and I
struggled, a lot. I'm not done, for
sure, and I'll still talk to Dr.
Carson. But I think, I'm ready to
start moving on.
The teens high five Ben. They smile and laugh. Some go up and
hug him.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
49 -
Navigating Resilience
INT. DR. CARSON'S PRIVATE PRACTICE OFFICE - AFTERNOON
Dr. Carson's office has a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ben
and Dr. Carson sit facing each other in comfortable chairs.
DR. CARSON
So, Ben, how was your week?
BEN
It was really good. I'm working on my
college apps. I have to write a
personal statement, and I'm having a
little trouble with that.
DR. CARSON
Why's that?
BEN
Well, do I write about "it"? And if I
do, what do I say?
DR. CARSON
Do you have any ideas?
BEN
I'm thinking about resilience.
DR. CARSON
Why resilience?
BEN
Because, for a long time, I didn't
think I was resilient. But, obviously,
I'm still here--with a little help...a
lot of help.
They both laugh.
BEN (CONT'D)
I don't know, maybe, they get a lot of
applicants who've tried to commit
suicide and failed...twice.
DR. CARSON
(small smile)
Sometimes, failing is a good thing.
BEN
The school counselor said I could even
consider a gap year.
DR. CARSON
It's good to have options.
BEN
I'm going to move back home. My mom
and I have been talking a lot. And I
think it's time.
DR. CARSON
Anytime you can talk about your
relationship is a good thing.
BEN
Um...Dr. Carson, with the flashbacks
and stuff, like could they come back?
DR. CARSON
It's possible, and it's a legitimate
fear. But, honestly, Ben, I think
you’re in a good place. Now you have
the tools to deal with the feelings
before they become a problem. I'm
really proud of you, and you should be
proud of yourself, too.
BEN
I'm not great about saying thank you
and stuff. So, can we just pretend I
said something nice?
DR. CARSON
We can.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
50 -
Summer Reflections
EXT. COFFEE SHOP - MORNING - SUMMER 2018
Three years have past. Ben is now 21 years old. He sits in a
coffee shop that is bright, contemporary and has an upbeat
vibe. From outside the front window, we see him sitting at a
table talking lightheartedly with someone. We discover it's
Finn.
INT. COFFEE SHOP - MORNING
BEN
...I’m just home for the summer. Then,
I’ll be a Junior in the Fall. I got
through my first couple of years at
Stanford, and I did pretty well.
Actually, really well.
FINN
I wouldn’t have expected anything
less. Have you decided on major?
BEN
Yeah. Creative writing.
FINN
Of course, your journals.
BEN
But, I'm pre-law, too, because I like
to eat.
They both laugh.
FINN
Do you still talk to Dr. Carson?
BEN
I check in with him every once in a
while. Still working on myself. It’s a
process. But I’m good. You‘ll never
guess who I ran into.
FINN
Who?
BEN
Alexander. He’s still pissed I beat
him.
They both laugh.
BEN (CONT'D)
Oh, I almost forgot.
Ben digs into his old backpack now with a rainbow decal now
on it. He takes out an envelope containing the contract and
gives it to Finn.
FINN
What is it?
BEN
Open it.
Finn takes the envelope and opens it.
FINN
(laughs)
The infamous coffee contract. You kept
it.
BEN
Wait for it.
Ben digs around in the backpack and takes out a stamp that
says “PAID IN FULL“ on it.
He takes back the contract from Finn.
POV-OVER BEN'S SHOULDER
He stamps the contract and gives it back to Finn.
BEN (CONT'D)
(smiles)
Paid in full. Hey, I think the guy
next to us is enjoying our
conversation. You wanna take a walk.
FINN
Sure.
BEN
Sir, we’re leaving now. So, you can
stop pretending to be checking your
email.
FINN
Still a smartass.
They exit the coffee shop.
Genres:
["Drama","Slice of Life"]
Ratings
Scene
51 -
A Moment of Gratitude
EXT. SIDEWALK - CONTINUOUS
FINN
I’m this way.
They walk in the direction of Finn's car.
BEN
Are you still with Dylan?
FINN
Yeah, we just bought a house.
BEN
Cool. Hey, Emma says “Hi.”
FINN
(smiles)
Emma. Say "Hi" back.
(serious)
How are you and your mom doing?
BEN
We’re pretty chill now.
They get to Finn's car and stop.
FINN
This is me.
BEN
You know...I never really got to thank
you. After I left Dexter, I really
needed a fresh start.
FINN
Knowing that you’re doing well is all
the thanks I need.
BEN
No. I owe you my life.
Ben unconsciously touches the scars on his wrist. Finn
notices. Ben looks away, briefly lost in thought.
pause.
FINN
(concerned)
Ben?
BEN
(quietly)
I got a second chance because of you.
You told me it would get better, and
it did.
They smile at each other. Finn walks to the driver's side and
opens the door. He goes to get in and stops.
FINN
Hey, Ben, have you heard of the BY
program?
BEN
The Becoming Yourself Program? Yeah,
why?
FINN
It was for you, Ben. We worked with
students and parents...teachers and
counselors to come up with a program
to train us how to identify and help
students so they don't have to go
through what you did. It‘s being used
in schools all over now.
They exchange meaningful looks.
FINN (CONT'D)
Goodbye, Ben.
Ben nods his head.
Finn gets his car, and Ben watches him drive away.
BEN
(to himself)
Goodbye, Mr. T.
DISSOLVE TO:
CHYRON: STANFORD UNIVERSITY - 2018 - JUNIOR YEAR
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
52 -
A Chance Encounter at the Quad
EXT. STANFORD UNIVERSITY - QUAD - AFTERNOON
The University's Quad is a wide, open, green space lined with
palm trees.
STUDENTS relax on the grassy lawns, some reading, some
chatting in small groups, and some throwing frisbees. The
atmosphere is serene, yet lively.
Ben walks across the Quad with his backpack.
SETH (21), another Stanford student, rushes towards him on
his way to class. He sports a backpack with the same rainbow
decal on it as Ben's.
As they pass each other, Seth turns around to look at Ben and
finds that Ben has turned around and is looking at him. They
both laugh. Seth rushes back and introduces himself.
SETH
(rushed)
Hey.
BEN
(smiles)
Hey.
SETH
Seth.
BEN
Ben.
SETH
Can I cut to the chase?
BEN
The chase?
SETH
(hurried)
You were looking at me. I was looking
at you. We have the same stickers, so
I assume you're gay.
BEN
You really do cut to the chase.
SETH
I'm a business major, it's kinda what
we do. So, I'm not seeing anyone, and
if you're not seeing anyone, let's
have coffee.
BEN
(amused)
Don't you want to know my major?
SETH
Doesn't matter. I'm gonna be late for
class. Give me your phone.
Ben takes his phone out of his pocket and gives it to Seth.
Seth types his name and number into Ben's contact list, then
takes a selfie.
SETH (CONT'D)
Something to fantasize with.
He flips the phone back to Ben and runs off. He turns around
and hollers to Ben.
SETH (CONT’D)
Okay, what's your major?
BEN
(hollers back)
Doesn't matter.
Seth gives Ben the finger
SETH
See ya later.
Seth runs off. Ben watches him and smiles. He looks at the
selfie then puts his phone back in his pocket.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Coming-of-age"]
Ratings
Scene
53 -
Playful Banter
EXT. CITY STREET CORNER - DAY
Emma stands on a city street corner and calls Ben.
INTERCUT:
EXT. STANFORD UNIVERSITY - QUAD - SAME TIME
Ben sits on the Quad journaling. His phone rings and he
answers it.
EMMA
Did you call him?
BEN
(coyly)
Thinking about it.
EMMA
(mock anger)
You better call him, or you'll piss me
off, and you do not want to piss me
off.
BEN
(rolls his eyes and shakes his
head with a small laugh)
Good-bye, Em.
EMMA
I really hate you.
BEN
I really hate you back.
They both hang up and smile widely. Everything is back to
normal between them.
Genres:
["Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
54 -
Final Dive
INT. STANFORD UNIVERSITY - SWIMMING POOL - DAY
The pool arena is empty. Ben walks slowly to the starting
blocks with a serious look on his face. He hesitantly climbs
up on to one and assumes the starting crouch.
He closes his eyes, hesitates, then launches himself off the
blocks like a rocket, slicing through the water like a
torpedo.
He powers through the water with strong fluid strokes to the
other end of the pool. He performs a smooth flip turn at the
other end and swims back. After touching the wall, he grips
the side of the pool. Still. Breathing.
He bows his head staring at the water that ripples gently.
For a long beat he stays there reflecting on everything he's
been through. Then slowly, he raises his eyes--not smiling,
not broken. Just...present. Breathing. Alive.
FREEZE FRAME.
FADE OUT.
END CREDITS ROLL.