INT. HIGHSCHOOL AUDITORIUM - EVENING A group of women gather in a small circle of chairs at one end of the auditorium. Footsteps echo through the vast space as SANDRA, mid-forties, rushes in. Late. She takes a seat in an empty chair. SANDRA: Sorry. I had to drop off my son. She looks around, taking in all the other women. ALISON, late-thirties, smiles warmly at her. ALISON: I’m Alison. I’m a counsellor. Do you want to introduce yourself? SANDRA: It’s my first time... I mean.. ALISON: Take your time. SANDRA: It’s my first time at one of these meetings.. Actually that’s not true... I’ve been to these meetings before but-- Sandra looks flustered. She gets up and gathers her things. SANDRA (CONT’D): I’m sorry. I can’t. Alison gets up and intercepts her. ALISON: Wait. Just take a minute. She hesitates but sits back down, clutching her purse tightly against her chest. SANDRA: I’ve been to these meetings before because I’m a councillor. An addiction councillor. Like you. She waits for a reaction from the women but their expressions remain unfazed. ALISON: So what brings you here today? SANDRA: A woman died. I was working with her. She had a little boy. Just like me... She takes a deep breath. SANDRA (CONT’D): I thought she was going to be fine.. ALISON: It’s ok. SANDRA: Do I have to continue? ALISON: Not if you don’t want to. SANDRA: I know it’s important to participate. That it’s part of the... healing process. ALISON: It’s fine. You’ve participated enough for now. (scanning the room) Who wants to go next? Sandra releases the grip on her bag and sets it down on the floor.

Scene 4 INT. St. MICHAEL'S CHURCH REC ROOM – NIGHT A dozen men and women stand around four tables in a square. A large image of a suffering Jesus hangs on one wall, a vigil light below it. The tables are similarly lit. ROGER, about 55, is leading the people in prayer. ALL: ...courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. They all sit on ancient folding chairs. ROGER: At the Sunday night Feelings Anonymous meeting, we reserve the first half hour for new people to introduce themselves by first name only and share their experience, strength, and hope with us, if they wish. Who is new, tonight? He looks around at those present. ROGER: Nobody? I thought we had a new lady... A pretty woman, about 35, tentatively raises a hand, then jerks it down. ROGER: (points) Are you new? WOMAN: I...I'm new to this meeting. I used to go to another one, but had to stop. ROGER: Would you like to tell us your first name? WOMAN: Yes. My name is...Florence. ROGER: Would you care to share with us, Florence? FLORENCE: My therapist said I should, whether I want to or not. A long silence. FLORENCE: I used to tell people I grew up in an alcoholic home, but that's not really true. Last year, I realized I never grew up in my home—I learned to cope, instead. Whatever growing up I've done has been in these rooms. She opens an oversize purse and pulls out a small, woebegone teddy bear, placing it near her candle. The bear's head is tilted to one side, looking downward, like a grieving child, eyes almost alive in the candle's flickering light. FLORENCE: Next week, I'll be two years old, emotionally. I have a lot of catching up to do. My childhood is a blank slate. My first memories are from first or second grade. My doctor and I talked about trying to recover my early years, but decided after some dream analysis-- Her voice breaks. FLORENCE: --not to proceed. My father was a vicious alcoholic. He beat my mother for years. And my brothers and sisters. I don't remember him beating me. He reserved me for...other things. I'll spare you the details. She pulls a tissue from her purse and wipes her eyes. FLORENCE: I have multiple emotional issues. I apologize in advance for any hurt feelings. I'm subject to sudden moods that make me react badly to ordinary situations. Her voice gets gradually louder as she vents her anger: FLORENCE: I'm carrying around a lot of hatred for my mother, who never intervened, who stayed when she was advised to leave, who screamed and cursed and kicked my oldest brother out of the house when he told her to get a divorce. She gets quieter and looks down at the table as she continues. FLORENCE: I also have guilt issues, for having participated in my own molestation, and shame for being singled out as a victim and examined and questioned when all I wanted was to go to my room and curl up in a ball and sleep forever. She slides the vigil light directly in front of her. FLORENCE: I learned to cope. I learned to be invisible, to lie my way out of situations. I even lied to myself, stuffing my feelings and erasing my memories. She passes a digit back and forth through the flame, letting soot coat her finger. FLORENCE: So it won't surprise you that I have multiple addictions. Alcohol. Drugs. Emotion-wise, I'm addicted to drama, creating it where none exists. I also get off on shame, revealing awful things about myself that make people give me the hatred I feel I deserve. She begins to weep. FLORENCE: Like right now, I have this irresistible need to tell you that I made this stuff all up. I lie all the time. And you suckers believed it, you simple shits! You're so fucking stupid. I hate you. I hate you all. Don't you hate me, now? She puts her head down on the table, crying, sobbing, a bottomless pit of grief and pain.

INT: CIVIC ROOM - EVENING A circle of chairs filled with a varied GROUP of individuals: A Mom, a Businessman, a Teen, etc. Just lots of people, alright? They fidget and small talk, but their attention is quickly turned to the center of the circle. GREG, a slender man (30's) stands straight and tall, surveys the room. GREG - Good. Thank you for coming. The Group straighten in their seats, attention focused. GREG - I'm Al. GROUP - (In unison) Hi, Al. GREG - Thank you. I have been a counselor here for three years now. A stout woman joins the group from the coffee pot toward the back, half-eaten donut in hand. She doesn't sit. GREG - Please, join us. STOUT WOMAN - (in mid bite) I'm good. GREG - Okay, let's get started with intros. Would you like to lead? STOUT WOMAN - Sure. I'm sorry. What was your name again? GREG - Ted. STOUT WOMAN - Right. Well, I've had this problem ever since I can remember and -- GREG - Sorry, what was your name? STOUT WOMAN - Oh, yeah, I'm Tina. GROUP - (not quite unison) Hi, Tina. TEEN - I thought your name was Cindy. GROUP - Yeah. -It was Cindy last week. -That's what I thought, too GREG - It's okay. We all understand. We are in this together, Cindy. The Stout Woman walks to the center of the cirle. STOUT WOMAN - Can I have my place, please? You're messing up my class. Greg quickly takes a seat. GREG - I'll do better next time. STOUT WOMAN - Thank you ... GREG - Sure. This is my first time. My real name is Kyle -- GROUP - (In unison) Hi, Kyle. GREG - and I'm a liar.

SCENE 1 INT. A BRIGHTLY LIT ROOM A group of people sit in a small circle. The MEDIATOR, a young woman dressed in extremely white robes leads the group. An older man is silently weeping. MEDIATOR: Get it all out, honey. You will feel much better. The MEDIATOR changes her glance to AMANDA (42) who sits uncomfortably in her seat. MEDIATOR: I believe we have a new joiner. Would you please introduce yourself? AMANDA: Hello. I’m… Amanda. GROUP: Hello Amanda. MEDIATOR: Please, do tell us, how long have you been with us? AMANDA: Erh… I don’t know… couple of weeks? MEDIATOR: Amanda, you know you have been here for more than one year. AMANDA: But that is not… I mean…you must be joking. I… I… MEDIATOR: I know you are confused. Everything was explained during the induction, and it does take a while to get used to this place. However, the reason you were sent to this session is because of what you did. AMANDA: It’s just that I miss them. I miss them so much. MEDIATOR: I understand. But the rules are very clear. AMANDA: I just wanted to be with them one more time. I know I should not have tried to escape, but I am really not supposed to be here. This is so unfair. You can’t keep me in this place. MEDIATOR: We are not the ones keeping you here. You are. AMANDA: Then let me go back. They are my kids and they need me. MEDIATOR: You know that is not possible. AMANDA: What did I do to deserve this? I’m a good person. I’ve always been. I just want to be with them again. MEDIATOR: Honey… AMANDA: I’M NOT SUPPOSED TO BE HERE! MEDIATOR: (Firmly) Amanda, you are holding them back. AMANDA: What? MEDIATOR: They are trying to move on, to live their lives. But by holding on to them as you are doing, you are not letting them. It’s been one year. You need to let go. AMANDA: But they are my kids… MEDIATOR: Amanda, you need to understand this. You can never go back. You are dead. Nothing can change that. AMANDA: But I… MEDIATOR: What happened to you was a terrible and unjust accident. But you have a long and beautiful journey ahead of you. Don’t you want to leave limbo? AMANDA: I guess so… MEDIATOR: Then let go. AMANDA: I miss them so much. Amanda sobs quietly. MEDIATOR: Get it all out, honey. You will feel much better.

INT. MEETING ROOM – NIGHT People are milling around, talking to each other, and eating snacks. Pan over to see a sign “Maury Support Group.” Gary, a new member, nervously enters the room. ORGANIZER: Ok, people! Let’s get started. ORGANIZER (CONT’D): Well, looks like we have someone new tonight. Would you like to introduce yourself? GARY: I…um… ORGANIZER: It’s ok. This is a supportive place. No judgment. GARY: Hi, I’m…I’m…Gary. SUPPORT GROUP MEMBERS: Hi, Gary. GARY: Yes, well…I’ve been trying to handle my addiction to the Maury Show alone, but it isn’t working. I saw the sign and thought I would try this. ORGANIZER: Great. Nice to have you here. GARY: It’s just that well…my addiction has gotten out of control. WOMAN: We’ve all been there. GARY: I can’t stop myself. All day, every day. I can’t get enough. ORGANIZER: The first step is to recognize the problem. We’re here to help. GARY: It used to just be on my TV, but now I have it on my phone, my iPad… ORGANIZER: Yes, we have noticed it has gotten worse with all the new technology. MAN: I used to watch it on the toilet. My family would get so mad when I would sit there for hours. GARY: I mean, it’s just…there are so many kids on there and once they suck you into an episode, you can’t stop watching. WOMAN: Oh yeah, especially when Maury takes out that brown envelope. GARY: Is he the daddy or is he not the daddy? I have to know! I don’t know why, but I have to know! ORGANIZER: Yes, that’s a common theme in this group. GARY: I finish one episode, and there are so many on demand. I just watch them one after another. You are NOT the father! You ARE the father! WOMAN: Don’t you love that rush of adrenaline? GARY: Yes! It’s like jumping out of plane. MAN: The best part is when it isn’t the father and the woman runs around screaming. Because now everyone knows she’s been getting freaky with someone else. GARY: And you hope she comes back on another episode and Maury brings on some other dude to see if he’s the father. WOMAN: I think I saw a woman on there ten times. And she still never found the father. GARY: Damn. See! It’s better than Cheaters. MAN: It was a sad day when that got canceled. So many happy memories. So many ruined relationships. ORGANIZER: I think deep down you’re addicted to it because you want to be a father yourself. GARY: Maybe. Oh…I wonder if I can get on the show?! ORGANIZER: Has this addiction affected your work, Gary? GARY: I run a porn business on the side, so no. MAN: Sweet.

Funny dialogue, MSC. Like the way the characters riffed off of each other. My only neg is that Gary wasn't really too reluctant to inoduce himself. A little slow maybe, but no more than most people in a new group. All in all, good banter.

Steven: Welcome to the group, Tom. Why don't you tell us a little about - - Tom: I'm Tom and I'm here - - Steven: Take a deep breath, there's no rush. Tom: I'm here because nobody - - Steven: That's good. You take your time. Bette. Spit it out, shmuck. Tom: I'm here because... because... nobody listens to me. Bette :Awh, go throw yourself off a building. Steven: Bette, please. We're here to listen to Tom's story today. Tom: I tried to... to... Goldie: It's okay, Tom. What did you try to do? Tom: I tried to throw myself off the Empire State Building. Bette/Goldie : You did? Steven: Okay, Tom, in your own time... Tom: I climbed right to the top - - Goldie : You did? That's so brave. Isn't that brave? What did you do then? Tom: I... I... I stood on the edge, spread my arms out like wings, you know? Bette: Yeah, wings. Heard it all before. (Sings) the wind beneath my wings. Goldie: That must have been real scary. Tom: Well, yeah, it was. I really don't like heights. Bette: Then why the hell did you go up there in the first place? Tom: I... I... needed to make an impression. Bette: Yeah, right. An impression... in the tarmac. (Claps her hands) Splat. Steven: Bette, we're here to listen, not to judge the actions of others. Goldie: What did you think when you were up there, standing on the edge, looking down? Tom: What did I think? I thought, (SCREAMS) Oh my god, what the fuck am I doing up here. (SPEAKS) I don't like heights. Goldie: It's so... so... so high. Tom: Yeah, I was real high. Bette: You get off on King Kong movies or what? Steven: Please, Bette, try to be a little more sympathetic. Remember we're here to listen. Goldie: Come on, Tom, tell us, what happened next? Tom: Well, I was there, on the edge, and (SCREAMS) Oh my god... Steven/Goldie/Bette: And what? Tom: I looked down... Steven/Goldie/Bette: You looked down. Tom: I looked down... Bette: So why didn't you jump? Goldie: What did you see? Tom: Lights, lots of lights, flashing. You know like when you're on the red carpet. Flash, flash... flash. Sirens wailing... and there were helicopters... lots of helicopters... flying overhead. I... I... Steven: Take your time, Tom. This must be very distressing for you. Tom: I looked up at the helicopters. Man, there was CNN, SKY News and Channel 5 and God knows who else. I gave them a wave, gave them my best side, my best smile. Steven: And how did you feel then, Tom? Bette: He felt like he'd been done out of his pay cheque. All that posing for nothing. Tom: I.. I... I felt... gratified. Like I'd been cast in the leading role again. Bette: You ain't never had a leading role. Steven: Bette, let me remind you why we're here. We're here to listen. Carry on, Tom. Goldie: Yeah, Tom, tell us, what did you do next? Tom: Well, I was sort of feeling drained by then, its a while since I did any action shots, so I got down and took off my Batman costume... hell, they'd got enough free footage for the news, so I called it a wrap. Bette: You didn't jump. Tom: Hell no, what do you think I am, stupid? I got the elevator down.

Feedback 4 These two characters really grabbed me. Roger was perfect in the role you cast for him. Liked his voice it suited his position well. Florence was brilliant, if not a little overdone. Once she got centre stage she was never going to give it up. Think it went without the need to say she was addicted to drama, that fact came over really well without explaining it. For me, I'd have liked to see a bit more of Roger's encouragement throughout her discourse just to lighten it a little. Otherwise a very enjoyable and well written scene.

Feedback 3 Great dialogue. I really liked the way all participants shared in with their own thoughts. That is what one would expect in a support group, everyone supporting and portraying their own experiences. I believe that Gary went a bit too fast from nervous introduction to exposing his addiction. Maybe start with short utterances and grow into longer phrases as his confidence increases. Nevertheless, it thought it was very funny and the ending was sweeeet! Nicely done.

SCENE 5 INT. UNDERGROUND MEETING ROOM - NIGHT A circle of occupied chairs takes up most of the room's available space, making it cozy to the point of claustrophobia. The eclecticism of the crowd in age, gender and race would be heart warming if everyone in the room wasn't constantly checking left and right nervously. Most of the attention though is turned to Jeff (31), blond spiky hair, green jacket and a dumb smile on his face. JEFF: I mean, ya know, I knew I'd have to introduce myself and all but you're asking me to say a lotta tings. A slight POP sound from O.S initiates a few giggles. WOMAN VOICE (O.S): Hey come on. Jeff's smile doesn't flatter. JEFF: I always did it, I always enjoyed it too. I never thought of it as being- (Quotes hand sign) A problem. Another POP. MAN VOICE (O.S): Cut it out. Jeff continues. JEFF: That was until I met Shirley. A few of the faces in the crowd illuminate. JEFF: She was cool, she was a sporty girl and man she had this- (Gestures a round butt) Beautiful. A man closes his eyes, an ecstatic smile on his face, savouring the image. BZZZZ, the sound of an electric shock. POP. Godrick (late 20s) holds his left finger in his right hand, pain over his face. GODRICK: Are you kidding with that? CAMELIA (35) holds her hands and heightens her brow in a 'man, look around you' fashion. Godrick slightly licks his finger with the eyes of a bitten dog. JEFF: The inevitable happened. I never saw her again. Same as Charline. Audrey. Cornelia. Sam. (beat) My dog Charlie. OOOHS and AAAHS get lost in the giggles. Finally, JOHN (52), the face of a scientist on the body of a bodybuilder, holds his finger up. Silence falls. JOHN: Have you ever said it out loud? JEFF: Say wha'? JOHN: Well, why you're here. Go on. Say it. Jeff loses his smile as his nerves take over. JEFF: Same as everyone. I'm here because of the, you know. As he wiggles his finger in front of him, the crowd starts a low tone chant 'say it, say it, say it'. JEFF: Come on, I'm here because... I'm here like all of you because... I like to... You know, put my finger in people's... aaaargh. He stands up and finally blows up. JEFF: I like to put my finger in places where it goes POP and get a kick out of the smell. The crowd bursts into applause.

Scene 4 A circle of broken people congregate in a bland community center meeting room. Some more anxious than others, all at varying levels of recovery. GINA (40s) stands and clears her throat. GINA: I'd like to welcome you all once again. I hope those of you returning to us have seen the benefit of these meetings, and I think we've all been making some real progress here. To those of you joining us for the first time- Her eyes land on a MAN (30s) sitting quietly and confidently staring back at her. GINA: Obviously we encourage honesty above all. And that being said, please stand and introduce yourself to the group. GINA sits, there's a moment of tension before the Man finally stands and takes a breath. MAN: My name is Thomas. I am a compulsive liar, that's why I'm here. I don't know why I lie- No, that's not exactly true. I'm sorry. His confident façade is breaking, he coughs nervously. GINA: It's ok, just relax. THOMAS: Ok. I guess it's time to start being honest. I know how it started. As a kid, telling little white lies. Not even for a good reason. Nothing to gain. Just the excitement of it, the power. Like leading someone through the dark. And the thrill. The rush of that moment before you know whether you're lie is going to be believed or not. Then the ongoing feeling of whether or not you'll ever be found out. I loved it. Of course as I got older, the lies became bigger, more elaborate. I suppose it's just like any addiction. Looking to outdo the last adrenaline rush, going bigger and bigger until it kills you. By the time I was an adult I really didn't feel anything. It was more of a habit, a lifestyle. My lies cost me friends, family, a career. Really any hope of a happy life. But it was such a part of my identity, I couldn't stop. It's like trying to unlearn how to ride a bike or forget how to read. I only hope that these meetings will help me take the right steps, get me on a path towards honesty. Thank you. Thomas sits, the room is silent. GINA: Thank you... Thomas. Does anyone have any comments? RICHARD (50s), a burly man uncrosses his arms and sticks his hand up. GINA: Richard? RICHARD: (to Thomas) You think we're fucking stupid? GINA: Richard, please. We want you to express your feelings, but please be civil. RICHARD: We know who you are, you're Brandt Waters. You were all over the news. You didn't have a family or a job. Running a scam using cancer kids? You are scum. I read about the parties, women, drugs. I don't believe for a second you feel remorse. you don't want to change. You're problem isn't like mine, you're a con man and a psychopath. You're only here to avoid going to jail, which is where you should be. Where you should rot and save the rest of us the disgust of having to look at your fucking face. Thomas/Brandt stares at the ground, turning beat red. GINA: Ok, that's enough, Richard. Thank you for that display of... unbridled honesty. The important thing is that Brandt is here, and he's trying. There may be some kernels of truth in what he said and we all have to start somewhere. Do you have anything to say, Brandt? Brandt: He's right. A silence fills the room. GINA: Ok, anyone else like to share?

Support groups don't encourage interruptions as a rule. Otherwise, good comment!

Feedback 3 Good job. I think Ricardo is right about Gary's speed. A little tension could be created if he's reluctant to share the details of his addiction, delaying a while. I'd typically omit camera directions in scenes. Just say "A sign: Maury Support Group." And I love the ending!

I guess I've been going to the wrong support groups. Kidding, that's good information. Thank you for your comment... to my comment.

Feedback 5 N D What can I say? This was an excellent scene. Thomas's speech was perfect. It felt scripted, planned, always trying to say what he was expected to say. The way Richard exposed him was brilliant. It was a very good twist. The Gina character was spot on. Really well done.

FEEDBACK 4: I like your interpretation of this dialogue challenge. Nice reveal. The supernatural element is grounded in human terms of loss, acceptance, and the ability to move on. My only note is that since it’s a group setting rather than a one-on-one session, what if you add one or two group members into the conversation? I realize others are not supposed to interrupt the speaker, but if there could be just a bit of a presence of one or two other people in the group just to fill it out. If you are interested, there is a 1998 Japanese movie called After Life. It’s a thoughtful and whimsical story of a way station for the newly dead. After they pick a happy moment from their life to experience for eternity, they are transferred to their afterlife.

Michele Thank you very much for your feedback. I will look up After Life as it sounds very interesting. Scratch that, just found it (subtitled) in the web. I now have a plan for the weekend.

Writing Challenge: SCENE 4 INT. – MEETING ROOM – NIGHT A meeting for people with addictions is in progress. There are ten people at the meeting. The leader of the group is, KELVIN (54). He asks a new member to introduce himself. LLOYD (23), the new guy, is visibly shaking. Kelvin: We have a new member tonight. Would you like to introduce yourself? Lloyd: Well, uh…I’m Lloyd. Group says hello to Lloyd. Lloyd: Uh, hi. Kelvin: Tell us about your…issue, Lloyd. Lloyd shifts nervously in his chair. His leg is bouncing rapidly. He is sweating. Lloyd: Well…it all started about four…uh…years ago. A friend told me to try something…uh…new. He told me it was… Lloyd shifts nervously again. He then puts his hands over his face. Another member of the group, AMY (30), interjects. Amy: Lloyd, it’s okay, we’re all here for you. Lloyd: I…uh…just…I guess I thought it could never happen to someone like me. Kelvin: What do you mean, Lloyd? Lloyd: Well, my…uh…dad is a…Pastor. My, uh…mom…is a school teacher and sings in the choir for Pete’s sake. I’m sure they’re both ashamed of me now. Amy: It doesn’t matter where you came from, Lloyd. It can happen to anyone. Kelvin: Amy is right, Lloyd. Tell us about your addiction. Lloyd: Uh…It started out as a…casual thing. Then uh…it was once or twice a day. Before…uh…before too long I wanted it all the time. I tried stopping but…I just couldn’t do it. Lloyd starts to cry. Amy hands him a tissue from a box she brought. Amy: It’s okay, Lloyd. Let it out. Lloyd: What’s really uh…sad is…I need it. Kelvin: That’s the thing, Lloyd, you don’t need it. That’s just your mind lying to you. Lloyd: I even…uh…stole things to uh…you know…sell. Just so I uh…could subscribe and watch. Then…uh…the money ran out again. It’s so em…uh…embarrassing. Amy: Lloyd, I have a problem with drugs. Kelvin is a whiskey man. You don’t have to be embarrassed. Pornography is just as much an addiction as any other. Lloyd: Uh…what? Amy: Well, you have a pornography addiction, right? Lloyd: Uh…no way. I’m not uh…really into that. Amy: Oh, well what are you talking about? Lloyd: I’m addicted to uh…The…The Walking Dead. Amy: The show about Zombies? Lloyd: Uh…yeah. Another member, TERESA (35), joins the conversation. Teresa: Mmmm…honey, I love me some Daryl now! Kelvin: I think we are getting off track a little. Other members begin to talk as well. STAN (26) and DAVE (42) get their two cents worth in. Stan: Man…Carl has become a freakin’ bad ass. Dave: I can’t wait for the new season to start! Stan: Actually, I think that’s tonight! Dave: Crap! I forgot! Teresa: You all want to come to my house and watch it? Stan looks at his watch. Stan: It starts in less than twenty minutes. We need to hurry! Everyone except Lloyd, Amy and Kelvin get up to leave. Dave: You coming Lloyd? Lloyd looks at Kelvin and Amy. Lloyd: I probably uh…shouldn’t…man. Amy: I’m proud of you, Lloyd. Teresa: I think the Governor shows back up tonight! Lloyd jumps up from his chair. Lloyd: We need to hurry! I’ll uh…drive! Everyone leaves except Kelvin and Amy. Kelvin slowly stands up. Amy: Really, Kelvin, you too? Kelvin: Sorry, Amy. I uh…I love me some Daryl, too. Kelvin runs out.

FEEDBACK 6 Hey Brian, Alright, so, I totally dig the surprise addiction this guy has. It’s a little comedic for my tastes, but it’s your scene so I have no say in the matter :) I’d like to refer to Scott’s feedback tip about making dialogue sound authentic using jargon or slang. I could definitely tell Lloyd had a different voice than everyone else, no doubt about that, but if you’re looking to strengthen something in this piece, swapping out some of the “uh’s” with other jargon would help solidify Lloyd’s voice; nitpicky I know. At first I thought Lloyd was nervous about telling everyone his problem, but even after doing so he continued to use uh throughout. So, that might be something you could work on. As far as structure is concerned, I liked how you led with an unknown (what’s his disease?) and allowed the other characters to ask questions for us as opposed to leaving us completely in the dark about what this guy had. It definitely built up anticipation! Overall, nice job man.

Feedback 4 A nice shaggy-dog story ending, with a bit of a wrinkle re the costume gig. So far, so good. I think the story would have flowed smoother without the repeated interruptions. (As mentioned above, support groups do not usually encourage cross-talk.)

Feedback 6 Hmm. Brandt Waters. B.W. Brian Williams? "Thomas's" monologue has a very real feel to it, as if you've gotten into the character's head. It's also uninterrupted, as it should be. Good characters throughout. Nice work.

Thanks for reading, guys. Jeff: Nice conspiracy theory, lol. I get fed up with trying to come up with character names for these exercises so I usually just blurt out whatever comes to mind. There wasn't a Brian Williams connection, at least not consciously. I can see the logic, though. He does seem to have a problem with exaggerating the truth, although his situation is curious. He was already a well established and respected anchorman, and I'm sure his stories are good enough. I mean, even being in the vicinity of a helicopter getting shot down by an RPG is a pretty good story. Why does he need to embellish it? Maybe his ego just got the better of him.

SCENE 5 EXT. PRIVATE GARDENS - DAY (A small group of people sit on folding chairs in a circle. A bag hangs from CHELSEY'S(40's) shoulder) KIM: We all have addictions here, this is a safe environment. Please, share with us. (Chelsey sits in silence. Her leg starts to shake) CHELSEY: Hi everyone, I'm Chelsey...and I... KIM: We're all here for you, no matter what you say. It's okay. (Chelsey takes a handful of something in her bag and eats it) CHELSEY: ...I have an eating addiction...and, I need help... (Beat) KIM: Healing begins by learning to let go and trusting the support of others to push you. It's always painful at first but-- (Kim tenderly reaches for Chelsey's bag) CHELSEY: --NO!-- (The bag contents spill out. The wind picks up and cakes everyone in white powder. Chelsey collapses and starts sobbing) CHELSEY: --MY HUSBAND!-- (Silence. Stunned faces. Chelsey savagely licks ashes from the ground and off the clothing of other people) KIM: Yeah, you're right. You need help. (Beat) KIM: And you need to leave. CHELSEY: But...but you said it doesn't matter wh-- KIM: NOW! (Chelsey reluctantly walks away, forced to leave her addiction behind)

Thanks Evan. I appreciate the input. I agree about the "Uhs". Sometimes it doesn't seem like that many while writing. Lol. Definitely will work on that.

Feedback #6 I have to admit I had to read through twice before getting it. I'm slow today. After I "got" it I realized how good it was. I think it would film well. Especially with quick cuts to each character. I like the fact that you still don't know what anyone's name actually is or what to believe. Well done.

SCENE 4: INT. CLASSROOM - NIGHT TRISH, 39, nervous, sits with 12 other people in chairs that form a circle. JOHN, 45, is the moderator. JOHN: Please welcome a new member. What’s your name? TRISH: Trish. GROUP: Hello Trish. JOHN: What brings you here, Trish? TRISH: Actually, can someone else go first? JOHN: It’s tradition to have the newest member speak first. SAM, 30, raises his hand. John nods to him. SAM: If Trish isn’t comfortable, I don’t mind starting. JOHN: Take it away, Sam. SAM: I’m Sam, and I’ve struggled with drug and alcohol addiction since I was 15. That’s the year my mom died in a car accident... Been sober for three years now, but every day is still a struggle -- TRISH: Excuse me, I’m ready now. JOHN: Sam isn’t finished. SAM: I’m done. Go ahead. TRISH: Hi. I’ve been struggling with multiple addictions since I was 12. That was when both of my parents died in a fiery plane crash. It made national news. I’ve ingested more drugs and booze than Sam ever did. So far, I’ve been sober for four years. I wish every day was a struggle, but for me, it’s much worse. Every hour on the hour, I struggle with my sobriety. JOHN: Trish, I need to interrupt. We all have our unique stories. This isn’t a competition. TRISH: I respectfully disagree, John. My story is the most unique, and everything is a competition. That’s why I’m here. I can’t stop it. I attend seven other support groups. Beat that. SAM: You’re addicted to competition and support groups? TRISH: I’m addicted to besting anyone. It’s a compulsion. JOHN: Did your parents die in a plane crash? TRISH: No, but it was a flashier story than Sam’s. I need help. (beat) Who thinks I need the most help out of anyone here? Show of hands?

SCENE 6 A motley crowd, about 6 people—a harried man still in his office formals-- tie loosened and shirt askew, a pretty young collegian in a short top and jeans, two fidgety young men, a gray haired schoolteacherish lady. The meeting is in a hospital basement where their voices echo. OFFICE MAN: So how was your week? SCHOOLTEACHER: Could’ve been better. My arthritis killing me. The tipple tap stayed turned off this week as well, good news. OFFICE MAN: Congratulations… I too have a good week to report, just 2 counts of blowing my fuse. No temper tantrums. Way better than last week. Made life much easier, I must say. Just then heels ring out as someone hurries down the stairs into the basement. A perfectly made up 30 year old , formal work clothes and sharp shoes-bag, rushes to the group WOMAN: I am just so so sorry…my chauffeur couldn’t find a parking spot The young men at the edge of the group snigger, whisper, nudge WOMAN: Didn’t mean to be late, that’s all…. (wrings hands, this is out of sorts with her demeanor) OFFICE MAN: That’s all right, no problem. I’m an anger addict in recovery. SCHOOLTEACHER: And I have a fondness for Malts THE YOUNG MEN: Lucy Flashtite… net porn WOMAN: I … I ….I… OFFICE MAN: Go on? WOMAN: You know the superstar XL? EVERYBODY on earth knows the superstar XL, right… what a man, what a voice… what a presence.. the earth trembles when he walks… THE YOUNG MEN: But he’s so OLD! WOMAN: But what a presence.. what a sophisticated manner.. I’m addicted to him… He’s GOD OFFICE MAN: Many people are his fans, you know. That’s quite all right. WOMAN (Imperial manner) You don’t understand, do you? I stalk him. I stay up all night to be the first to comment on his posts. I waited all night outside his home once, just for a glimpse, in the worst monsoon rain… and…and SCHOOLTEACHER: And? WOMAN: There was this Russian fellow, a hacker… I found him online. He promised to break into XL’s computer, trail free too. OFFICE MAN: OMG! That’s dangerous WOMAN: And we were caught. The judge made me come here… (faint) SCHOOL TEACHER: So here you are…Welcome to the real world, dear. THE YOUNG MEN: Know what? Can he hack Lucy Flashtite’s comp? (EVERYONE LAUGHS)

FEEDBACK #1: I liked it. The dialogue and interactions seemed natural. I think it was never clear to me if she has an addiction herself or if this is something more akin to grief counseling. I assume it's the former, but don't really think it makes a huge difference to the scene either way. I do think you've used two spellings for counselor (counsellor / councillor), so would fix that.

Wow....damn...so didn't see that coming. That little dash of morbid comedy is awesome. I'm sure everyone (myself included) went the usual way with drug addiction or alcohol or something normal. But you knock it out of the park. God I hope you make this into a short film.

Day 4 New member of support reluctantly introduces herself and their addictions INT. CHURCH BASEMENT Small, windowless room. Six people sit in a circle. ERIC: Thank you, Frank. Now anyone else? He looks at a young man slouched in his seat. ERIC: How about you? YOUNG MAN: Nah. I'm good. ERIC: I don’t doubt that. We (gesturing to everyone in the circle) are all here because we are flawed so why don’t you share your goodness. The young man sighs. YOUNG MAN: Hi, I'm Allen. EVERYONE: Hi, Allen. ALLEN: This is my first time here. I'm...I'm not sure where to start. ERIC: What brings you here? ALLEN: I have problems with....moderation. ERIC: Of what? ALLEN: Stuff. Eric grins and nods. ERIC: Ok and how did you get into stuff? ALLEN: Bored I guess. A big, burly man speaks up: BURLY MAN: Hey kid, quit pussy footing around. We all got dirt. You ain't the first. ALLEN: Damn, bro. Aight. My boy, James, he got me started. You know the usual path. Weed, then coke, then.... You know. ERIC: How long has it been? ALLEN: A while....but recently....since I been back. But it’s whatever. ERIC: What’s whatever? ALLEN: This. It’s whatever. I can handle it. I did before. BURLY MAN: Ha…and I just come here for the cookies. ALLEN: Why you sweatin me, bro? BURLY MAN: Because I sweat. Every time I come here. I sweat because sometimes all I want to do is one hit. Just one. I can handle it. I know I can. I tell myself I can. But I know I’m lying and that hit sweats me every time I walk out that door. I’m sweatin’ you because this is where you sweat. You sweat in here…so you don’t sweat out there. Allen stares at the burly man. Now he understands. ALLEN: Ok, I got you. I got you.

SCENE 7 We are at a meeting of a support group that is taking place in the basement of a church. Twelve people sit in a circle. Counsellor: we have a new member. Her name is Linda. Welcome, Linda. Group: welcome Linda. Counsellor: why don't you tell something about yourself Linda. Linda: uhh – I would like to wait if that's okay with you. Counsellor: that's okay. Martin, would you like to start? Please introduce yourself and tell why you're here. Martin: hi, I'm Martin. I'm married and have kids. They were first with my ex-wife, but she killed herself a year ago. I couldn't cope with the guilt and found some support here. Ever since I've started coming here, I feel better. The group agrees. Linda swallows. Bianca: I'm Bianca. I'm a twin-- I mean, I was a twin (starts crying). Someone next to her consoles her. Counsellor: it's okay to grief. Let the tears flow. Bianca: my sister killed herself. Drugs overdose. I have nightmares. I can't sleep anymore. Everyone in the group tells his or her story till they finally arrive at Linda. All eyes are set on her. Counsellor: What you've heard is pretty heavy. take a deep breath and take your time. Linda: I – I don't know. Counsellor: would you like to elaborate on that? Linda: I don't believe I belong here. Group member: nobody thinks they belong here. It all happened to us and we all have to endure the pain, and find a way to live with it. Linda: you don't understand. Counsellor: we don't want to press you to talk. Maybe it's a good to listen to us the first time. Take it all in and next time you'll find it easier to open up. Linda starts crying. Linda: no it's not that. I made my mother kill herself. I yelled at her that she should kill herself and stop harassing her children with her problems. She was always on drugs. Silence. Linda: she jumped out the window because of me. I'm guilty of someone's death and you're not. Do you understand? I don't belong here.