Race World
/A $100k prize is at stake when High School friends qualify for Race World’s, virtual “24-hour Enduro” season finale’. Can the geeky duo survive a 1000 mile drive through Alabama in a 60-year-old car before a devious rich kid ends their dream? An eccentric hacker they enlist must pull off a programming miracle!
————
INT. Dark Garage - NighT
FADE IN:
In the center of a garage sitting atop saw horses are two soap box racers. A small hand holding a pair of pliers straightens a cotter pin holding a wheel on. The second soap box racer receives the same treatment. The side door closes and a boy walks down the sidewalk.
FADE OUT.
EXT. Soap box hill - mORNING
FADE IN:
An asphalt road lined with brightly colored ribbon tape and soap box racing banners ends at the top of the hill where 3 soap box cars sit ready to race. Parents and other spectators are standing behind the racers.
A fat man with a goatee stands in front of the racers. He has a small megaphone.
Soap Box Race official
Okay kids, is everybody ready to race?
The kids look around bored but nod in agreement. The Official takes a couple steps forward and continues.
Soap Box Race Official
When I raise the green starting flag get ready. When I drop it, let go of the brake! Stay in your lane and be safe!
The racers look intent and focused now, as the man takes a couple steps back.
SOAP BOX RACE OFFICIal
Here we go!
The racers have their hand on their brake release lever. The Race Official drops the flag and the cars slowly start to roll forward, slowly gaining speed.
A close-up shot of the car on the left shows the cotter pin fall out of the axle and the left wheel spins off. The car leaps over the curb into the grassy park. It rolls onto it's side and a young black male driver flops over onto the grass. He waves to show he's okay.
Camera pans to the right car as the wheel falls off. It runs off the road into a grocery store parking lot, weaving between parked cars and several shoppers smacks into a large sign advertising Captain Crunch Cereal. Spectators applaud.
Camera pans to the remaining racer as he crosses the finish line with his arms raised in celebration and with a mischievous grin.
FADE OUT.
EXT. different race courses - nIGHT
FaDE IN:
Begin 3-part montage.
- A go-cart race is interrupted as a distant car has a big smoke ball roll out from it.
P/A Announcer
Ladies and Gentlemen, we seem to have an anomaly on the track. Emergency Services are responding!
- An open-wheel race is underway when the entire engine falls out of a car.
- A Sprint Car race is halted with a car spinning upside down on it's top in the middle of the track. A young black man is seen clutching the steering wheel and looking straight ahead.
End 3-part montage.
At the end of the Sprint Car race, two teenage boys walk out of the race park through a tunnel with their helmets in their hands. They walk past a dumpster in the parking lot and toss their helmets in and keep walking.
FaDE OUT.
INT. Sam's home, sam's bedroom - aFTERNOON
"SAM" WALTON, 18-year old HS Senior at Fairview Heights High in Illinois. Medium height and lean, shaggy brown hair and no facial hair. Sam works part time at the local Best Buy, lives with his 50-year old divorced mother. Sam is a great student and loves Math and Physics. Not much of an athlete and has been a little insecure since his real-world racing days ended. Basically, a nice guy- quiet and smart.
MAC MCDONALD,18-year old HS Senior at Fairview Heights High in Illinois. A 6'3", 220 lb., African American with a big heart. His round, black framed eye glasses look a little out-of-place on his face. Mac works part time at Auto Zone. He lives with his Aunt as he lost his folks in a car wreck when he was 4-years old. Somewhat eccentric as he does not listen to rap or hip-hop preferring Island Music such as Jimmy Buffet, Zack Brown and Bob Marley.
FADE IN:
A dark bedroom with two driving consoles and monitors are set up with steering wheels where Mac and Sam are sitting.
An online race is underway as cars circle a virtual NASCAR-styled oval track. The screen shows the driver's view of the race.
Both Mac and Sam have individual steering consoles but only one driver pilots the car at a time.
Mac stands up and walks to the rollup window blind and it springs open. The race is over.
MAC
That was a good race man, I'll take fourth place but if we had that battery upgrade app we might have won!
Sam
I don't know about you, but I don't have another $500. Race World is making tons of money on suckers like us.
Sam walks over to where Mac was now re-planted in the deeply cushioned chair and he extends his fist for a knuckle bump.
SAM
You did great passing those last two cars Mac. Next time let's not wait until the last 3 minutes.
MAC
Man, I hate to be the one to tell you, again, but every race comes down to the last 2 minutes. Another 15 seconds and it would have flipped to the power savings mode automatically- game over.
Suddenly the monitor beeps and flashes race results. Sam points to the screen.
SAM
Look. Duke made it into the finals.
And we are, #8. No way, Duke is #7!
MAC
That worm is always one-upping us.
SAM
I'll bet he's stuck $5,000 on his Daddy's American Express this season alone for race apps!
Mac's stomach growls and Sam laughs and Mac smiles back at him. They now seem relieved and relaxed.
MAC
I'm a starving man, and I have to be at The Zone from four until midnight – we have inventory! We better eat now."
SAM
Let's roll, the Rambler has gas, for once.
FADE OUT.
EXT. Fish Sticks Restaurant - aFTERNOON
FADE IN:
DUKE RYDER, 19-year old, son of the US Senator, Charles Ryder. A privileged, spoiled, an entitled Senior at a private High School in St. Louis. Long-time nemesis of Mac and Sam as he sabotaged their cars as kids.
LUCY BROWN, Duke's "friend" but has a crush on Sam. She is 18-year-old and just started college at Illinois University. She likes Duke because he buys her gifts and takes her out but she does not like his smug and devious behavior.
FADE IN:
A restaurant parking lot next to a small lake, it is a bright afternoon and the old station wagon pulls in smoking and with a wobbly front tire and bad need of a paint job. When the engine shuts off an embarrassing "smoke bomb" blasts out of the exhaust tailpipe.
Sam and Mac step out of the car and walk across the parking lot.
MAC
(Talking to himself.)
This place has some great fried catfish.
SAM
Uhh huh. Mac, you got anything at the Zone to help with the smoke thing on the car? It's getting worse!
MAC
She's sitting there smoking like a chimney, bro'.
SAM
I see her(laughing).
MAC
Naww, they don't make any magic "smoke-away" or anything like that 'cept for a new engine, but we can order you one- 6 weeks delivery. Cash, Check or Credit Card!
They stand next to the register counter waiting for a table. The hostess is busy and tells them to wait as she seats another group.
SAM
If we win the Enduro I'm going to buy a new car somehow.I don't know if I'd take the scholarship or the money. But first things first… we gotta win- $100,000 is a lot of money.
MAC
Copy that Maverick. If we can't place at least in the top 3 where the money is, we have to at least beat DUKE.
SAM
Duke and Lucy.
MAC
Yeah, both of them, but she's just his girlfriend, Tony is his +1.
SAM
No, I mean, there is DUKE and LUCY, over there (pointing to a window booth).
MAC
Aww man, we need a bigger city. I hate running into those guys.
SAM
Lucy is nice. She's okay! She's cute too. Remember that old sitcom 'Gilligan's Island'. She's Mary Ann.
MAC
Yeah Professor, I get it. She can be nice when she's not trolling with Duke. She likes to flirt with you and (shrugging shoulders), who knows? But she is definitely no Ginger Rogers.
Sam and Mac are taken to a booth too close to Duke and Lucy.
Pan back as their waitress comes to the table with menus, greets them, and they order. Conversation and laughter continue and their food arrives.
FaDE OUT.
INT. Fish Sticks Restaurant - AFTERNOON
FaDE IN:
Sam and Mac sit in the restaurant booth facing each other. Sam has a Best Buy blue shirt on and Big Mac has his Tesla shirt on, reserved for race days.
Duke leaves Lucy in their booth and wanders over to the their table simply to annoy and intimidate. He is standing behind Sam, who doesn't know he's there.
DUKE
Hey ladies, somehow you made it into the finals... Miracles never cease! (trying hard to agitate).
Sam glances over towards Lucy still sitting in the 1/2 empty booth.
Sam waves and smiles towards Lucy. She made sure Duke was not looking and teasingly waved back at him with a blown kiss. Sam felt his face flush a bit and he touches it, then returns to the conversation at his table.
MAC
(to Duke)
Come on man, Let's hear it! Yo' stocks are up and your pants are down and we need to get on our hands and knees to kiss yo' butt, what else?
Mac is getting cranked up and his impatience is clear. His behavior makes it obvious he does not like Duke.
DUKE
Whoa, whoa cowboy. I was just going to say 'congrats' for getting into the finals.
MAC
That's a funny way to start. We got there without any Daddy money to make our little car run faster! We even work actual jobs to pay for the finals.
DUKE
What is that J-O-B thing you speak of? What's that thing you're pushing need, an engine transplant?
SAM
Whatever, You're still 60% money and 40% BS.
DUKE
Amusing, you joust well senor! Yeah.
MAC
Money talks, but it's not over until it's over! If we can come in #8 without $10,000 in apps, we have a chance, a great chance, and that's all we need loser.
Duke starts to puff his chest out and his face turns red. Mac stands up, towering over Duke by 6" and 80 lbs.
MAC
Yo, go back to Lucy Brown, your Golden Girl about town.
DUKE
I smell something and it starts with a 'J' and ends with an 'ealousy'.
SAM
No Duke, it starts with an 'A' and ends with 'hole'...
Mac stands back up and starts toward Duke who backs up quickly turns and goes back to his table and sits down with Lucy.
MAC
Have I told you recently I hate that guy?
SAM
Yeah, it's been about 4 minutes but I have heard that before.
MAC
I read you have to confront morons or they'll push you around.
SAM
And you did a mighty fine job of it mister. I think even Lucy was ready to cheer for you!
FADE OUT.
INT. Fish stick's Restaurant - AFTERNOON
FaDE IN:
Duke and Lucy are sitting in the booth facing each other. She is wearing white shorts and a simple blue top with white tennis shoes. Lucy seems disinterested and not looking at Duke. There are empty plates and glasses on the table and it looks like they are ready to leave.
DUKE
I hate those guys. Where's that ding-bat waitress? I want to get out of here.
LuCY
You gonna tell me what they said, or what?
DUKE
They just don't trust me. That's all.
LUCY
They not only don't trust you, they don't like you. Simple, say it to me, THEY JUST DON'T LIKE ME (says it slowly spelling it out).
Duke shifts in his seat and stares into his glass.
LUCY
You treat them like your servants and talk to them like they need to shine your shoes for you. I mean what do you expect?
DUKE
Well, if that shoe fits... they should shine it, but they wouldn't even know how to shine a shoe. All they own is Reebok tennis shoes.
LUCY
See? You drip self-righteous indignation, or venom or something.
Protracted pause as she waits for a reply not received.
LUCY
You only beat them by one car today. They may be tougher than you think and the prize is $100,000.
DUKE
Don't worry about them as real competition. I don't believe in luck, but just in case I'm making sure they need more than luck to win this race. I make my own luck.
Lucy shakes her head and stares blankly at him as he sneers.
Pan to under the table where he is playing with a small black data storage device with his hand. Close-up shows it has a label that says, 'RACE WORLD X-APP'.
FaDE OUT.
INT. DuKe's estate home - nIGHT
FADE IN:
Enter a dark room, a formal study, in an upscale home. The glow from the monitor is enough light to reveal a hand placing the data storage device on the desk and insert the connector into a USB port.
The monitor shows a series of convincing commands which reveal the URL of Race World and a target account for Sam. Computer commands are displayed on the screen which culminate in the message:
*** Account modified: Performance application uploaded successfully ***.
DuKE
(Muttering to himself)
I make my own luck, just like that.
Duke removes the USB connector and shuts the computer off, then walks out of the room. His dimly illuminated silhouette makes it clear that it is Duke.
FaDE OUT.
INT. Sam's Garage - afTERNOON
FADE IN:
Enter into a cluttered home garage with the 1968 Rambler American up on jack stands. From the main garage door area, panning toward the rear of the garage, 2 sets of legs protrude from under the car. Short pants- one skinny and white, one black and muscular. Air compressor hoses and an extension cord run under the car and light from their drop light floods the floor.
MAC
Cut it here, right here...
The buzz of an air saw cutting steel can be heard and then a heavy "Clunk" of metal against concrete as the exhaust pipe separates and falls to the floor.
MAC
We'll make a grease monkey out of you yet, Sam.
SAM
Uhh… no, you watch too much TV, I don't see that happening, evuh!
MAC
Pull that new pipe in under here and we can clamp it, then we'll hang that muffler, the one without the holes.
Sam's arm reaches out from under the car and pulls a steel exhaust pipe under the car. Mac's hand is seen taking it and moving it out of scene.
Mac
With plugs, points, new spark plug wires and a rebuilt carb, we'll make it to Pensacola. That's where Jimmy Buffet is from you know.
SAM
Jesus, you've told me that 10 times in the last 2 days. And what do I say now?
MAC
You say, "He's not from Pensacola, he's really from the Mobile, AL area, Eastern Shore". But I think you're wrong.
SAM
Look it up.
MAC
Nahh... that takes all the fun out of yanking your chain.
Sam
You've yanked that chain off!
MAC
That's about all there is to replace on this old car. With a new muffler the cops will probably leave us alone.
SAM
Well, you got a great deal on it at the Zone. It was about as cheap as possible without stealing it!
MAC
It was on clearance and with the employee discount we made out. Let's not get arrested here, there, anywhere.
A few minutes pass and the hammering and sawing continues then silence for a moment.
MAC
Can you bring some of your Mom's Jimmy Buffet CDs for the road?
SAM
Here we go- you're a main-stream black American in 2019, living in a highly integrated city. You need some Cole or Kendrick or Eminem.
MAC
The only Eminem I care about are the white chocolate ones that melt in your mouth, not in your hands.
Mac hold his right hand up as if he's recalling a time when his M&Ms kept their promise not to melt.
SAM
You are an enigma man.
MAC
No, Baptist (smiling a gotcha). Can you just get some Zach Brown or Garth or Jimmy Buffet or something for God's sake?
SAM
Christmas is coming, maybe Santa will hook you up! (then under his breath) Maybe not. The Zone doesn't do CDs?
Mac
Aww man. Come on, just do it. You want me to ask your Mom?
SAM
No, the stress of knowing you're a Jimmy Buffet fan might kill her. No one is ready for a Parrot Head like you!
Scene fades to an analog 'white-faced' clock on the wall of the garage and it shows 4:45.
Fade out with car repair sounds- metal being cut, hammering, laughter… fade out again and in with the clock is shown again at 10:15 and it's dark outside. A garage pan shows the area cleaned up and the jacks removed. The light goes out and the garage door closes and is locked. Mac and Sam are walking down the sidewalk to the house.
MAC
Don't forget the CDs. Please, for the love of God, it's a 1000 mile slug stuck in that beater with you!
SAM
I'll hook you up, don't worry! Let's just call it a Hooptie. We'll make it, maybe.
FADE OUT.
INT. SAM'S GARAGE - NIGHT
FADE IN:
Garage is dark, the sound of a dead-bolt being unlocked is heard and the garage side door is opened and a dark figure wearing a black hoodie slinks in.
Duke's face is revealed as he walks toward the car wearing a illuminated visor cap.
A hand reaches under the grille above the bumper and a latch releasing sound is heard and the hood pops up. The hand raises the hood and lifts the support rod.
The light from the cap visor focuses on the distributor and a small black cylinder is clamped to the main wire and a big Zip Tie holds it on. The clock on the wall shows 2:56 as the hood is quietly closed and the final scene shows the garage door closing.
FADE OUT.
EXT. Sam's house driveway - morNING
FADE IN:
The Rambler sits in the driveway with all 4 doors propped and the rear hatch held up with a shovel handle. Suitcases and coolers and travel miscellaneous piled around the outside of the car. Sam is busy carrying even more gear out. Mac arrives in a car driven by his Aunt with only a single suitcase.
MAC
Are we traveling to the North Pole, man? What's all this junk?
SaM
You never know Mac, we have over 1000 miles to drive in a 50 year old car. We may wind up living in this old girl before we're done.
MAC
One question for you Sam, Zack Brown or Jimmy Buffet?
SAM
My Mom gave me her Boats, Beaches, Bars, and Ballads CD set from Jimmy.
Mac
Please don't tell me it's buried in this junk and you have it on the front seat! Where do you want my suitcase?
SAM
Just find a spot. I gassed up earlier, we are 'bout ready to roll, 'cept for ice. Mom made sandwiches and I have warm drinks in the cooler.
Mac throws a couple boxes into the car and flops down into the front passenger seat. He reaches out with his right hand and gently rubs the dash.
MAC
Come on baby, one more trip, I know you can get us there!
Sam sits down in the driver's seat, shuts the door and starts the car.
MAC
I don't want to be broke down in Montgomery, AL- my people there may not 'get' me. You know, how I am.
SAM
What people you got in Montgomery?
MAC
Of course I got people- Black people dude, that's right, it's the center of the Civil Rights movement.
SAM
I thought that was East St. Louis, can it get more intense than that?
MAC
Don't go there, bro'- just saying, me and Montgomery really don't need to know each other. Just 'cause I got people don't mean I need to see 'em.
Sam
Gotcha, I think we patched her up enough to get it down the road to the Pensacola Civic Center!
MaC
Let's hope. Oh, here's a map.
Mac pulls out a map and unfolds it.
SAM
No thanks, I have Google Maps on my phone.
Mac
Oh, you think Montgomery has cell service? I heard they just got color TV last month.
Sam and Mac laugh and the Rambler backs out of the driveway.
SAM
Okay. Put that map in the glove. We'll figure it out when we get there.
MAC
There are some crazy white people there and even crazier brothers! Just sayin' think Banjoes and Deliverance...
SAM
Oh. Ouch, no... don't need that image. Let's get some ice at the STOP and ROB, you might need it later.
Scene fades out with a rear shot of the Rambler smoking as it drives down the street headed for the Interstate.
FADE OUT.
EXT. Intersate lambert Airport - moRNING
FADE IN:
A white limo is crossing the river on the Stan Musial Veteran's Bridge. The limo is speeding, making time passing cars in heavy traffic and headed toward Lambert Airport. The limo drives past an airport entryway sign and through a "Departing Private Flights" security gate. The car pulls up to the jet ramp next to a Gulf Stream G4 jet.
FADE OUT.
EXT. tarmac at Lambert Airport - mORNING
FADE IN:
The driver gets out of the limo wearing a traditional black chauffer suit and hat. He opens the driver's side passenger door and Duke steps out and stretches. The other passenger side opens next, and out steps Lucy. Both Lucy and Duke are way over-dressed for a trip to the Gulf Coast.
DUKE
Don't worry about our luggage, Luce. Max has it, he'll load them. Let's board. It's hot out here.
They walk up the 10 steps to the Jet and step inside the cabin. There are 4 main leather seats and the two settle in to the forward facing pair. A stewardess appears into the scene.
STEWARDESS
Can I get you a drink, what would you like?
DUKE
Double SoCo on the rocks for me and Lucy will have champagne.
STEWARDESS
Sounds good, so ice tea and grape juice? Sorry Duke, your Dad does not allow "go juice" on the plane and you are not 21.
Duke shrugs and looks at Lucy.
DUKE
Grape Juice okay for you?
Lucy shakes her head.
LUCY
Just water please. Duke, this is crazy. Why don't we just drive? (exasperated). Really? I get it, your Dad has bucks.
DUKE
I'm not humping 1,000 miles in the Porsche. May as well enjoy it Lucy, who cares? It's free.
LUCY
Yeah, as usual, free to you, but it's costing your Dad some serious money. What, $10,000?
DUKE
He wishes. More like $7500 per hour with a 4 hour minimum.
Lucy's mouth drops open and she seems to struggle to speak.
LUCY
Are you freaking serious? Have you gone insane? When he figures out what you cost him, he will be furious.
DUKE
My Dad, my problem. Just relax and enjoy the ride, okay?
LUCY
Again, why are you doing this? The race I mean, you don't need the money.
DUKE
Didn't you just ask me this, like yesterday? Same stuff different day, except weren't are on a jet. I'm going to beat those 2 morons. It's simple, don't over-think it.
LUCY
Yeah and you'll stop at nothing! I heard you always find a way to 'make sure' you win. (Air Quotes with her fingers)
DUKE
Man, I should have brought my own Southern Comfort. Thanks, you're right. I make my own luck, again!
LUCY
Okay Duke, what did you do this time?
DUKE
Can't tell you, just know that if their pile of junk happens to make it to Pensacola, they'll find their Race World Tesla runs a lot slower down there than it did here.
LUCY
How can that be? It's the same Race World network in Pensacola as the one there.
DUKE
Perhaps Elfin magic? Who knows? Not to worry, it's a done deal.
LUCY
I don't think I need to be here, this is getting weird. You think you're Supreme Ruler or something?
Just then, the jet's stair ramp is retracted and the door closes. The jet engines spin up filling the cabin with noise as the jet moves onto the runway.
Pan into an underside shot of jet lifting off the runway and the St. Louis arch in the background.
FADE OUT.
EXT. Interstate headed south - afTERNOON
FaDE IN:
The Rambler is driving 45 mph in a 70 mph speed zone on I-65 heading South. A "Leaving Huntsville Alabama" sign is seen out of the passenger window. A steady cloud of blue smoke billows from the tailpipe.
SAM
The race starts Saturday at 7AM and runs to 7AM Sunday, hence the 24-hr Enduro Race name.
MAC
Thank you Captain Cliché, are you recording a commercial?
SAM
Yes, yes I am- check channel 3 News at 10 tonight. Today is Wednesday and if we get there tonight, we'll have 3 nights in the Motel 6. How much money you got?
MAC
About $300, maybe $350. That's it.
SAM
So you can spend about $150 on the motel right?
MAC
I have enough. May have to starve, but whatever.
SAM
The Motel 6 is the cheapest at $75 per night by the mall, so it'll actually be about $125 each.
MAC
Ok Momma, I think I can handle it.
SAM
Better get your doggie "thunder jacket" out so we can slide on through Montgomery without tears- only 100 miles to go.
A red low rider '62 Chevy Impala blows by the Rambler. All they see is a blur until the car pulls into their lane in front of them.
MAC
Jesus, he must be doing 100mph. I think I need some new underwear!
SAM
Well, you might want to wait on the underwear and just change it once... 'cause...
Sam's looking in the rear-view mirror as an Alabama State Trooper sweeps past the Rambler, and then a second State Trooper running fast and hard after the Impala.
MAC
Holy S... see what I mean? People here are crazy. Was the driver a brother?
SAM
Probably someone's- not mine, thank God.
MAC
I'll bet he was a brother. See they do crazy stuff here and the white people are frightening.
Sam grunts and they pass the Impala, now pulled over with the Black driver on the hood of the car as two large white State Troopers try to cuff him.
MAC
See? You think I was joking around. Probably a Banger trying to get home to Montgomery to his Baby Momma.
Sam rolls his eyes but does not say anything.
SAM
A baby who's his Momma, skip it, I don't wanna know! We have a couple days before the race. Any ideas?
MAC
If we get there in this thing, if... then the usual stuff- food, pool, drive around, waste time.
SAM
Eat, Sleep, Make Merry, for Saturday your Baby Momma will find you.
Mac
Are you gay? I don't mean "gay" just "gay", like some vagabond whack-job poet? I wonder where the babes party down there on the beach?
SAM
Baby Mommas? The 90's are calling man. No babes this week, no Mommas, we have enough problems as it is.
MAC
We'll see about that.
SAM
I don't care you're 0 for 92, go for it. Here, eat this baby mommy.
Sam hands him sandwich and opens one for himself. They drive on.
FaDE OUT.
EXT. MONTGOMERY, AL I-65 - afTERNOON
FaDE IN:
Pan into the Rambler on I-65, perspective from the back seat as cars pass them. Several more cars and tractor trailers blow by them blowing their horns.
MAC
Hey man, we just passed the Montgomery City limit sign. Be very careful now.
Jimmy Buffet is playing "Cheeseburger in Paradise" on the car stereo. Sam's attention is diverted to a strange sound and he turns the radio down and listens attentively.
MAC
We in Montgomery… Civil rights, pointy sheets, and banjoes. Just drive dude and get us out of here. What do you hear?
Sam
Dunno.
Sam looks up into the rearview mirror and sees blue smoke, then he sees police lights and a siren blasts a warning.
MAC
Uhh Oh, we are so busted! I told you, just pull it over, nice and easy and put your hands up.
Both cars pull over and Sam turns the car off and one large mushroom cloud of blue smoke is expelled from the exhaust pipe.
MaC
Be cool man. No sudden movements 'cause he'll shoot me if you do something stupid.
SAM
Relax, we didn't do anything wrong!
MAC
Yeah, all gunshot victims say that. Black lives matter! Black lives matter Sam! Particularly mine!
A large black State Trooper with mirrored sunglasses and a ticket pad appears at the driver's side and looks down on Sam.
State Trooper
Hey Fellows, I didn't know the Mayor ordered a mosquito spray truck today. What's going on with your car?
SAM
Hi there officer, I'm sorry about that. We fixed the plugs and points before we left Fairview Heights.
STATE TROOPER
It's Trooper. Trooper Gaines. Give me your driver's…. Did you say Fairview Heights?
SAM
Yes Sir, Fairview Heights, IL- across the river from St. Louis. We're headed to Pensacola for a "playoff" this weekend.
STATE TROOPER
My mother lives in Fairview Heights with my step Pop… This car made it all the way from Fairview Heights and you're alive to tell about it?
MAC
(leaning over) Yes Sir. We just drove it slow and it kept on going! We're alive- more or less.
(Cough, Cough, Cough)
STATE TROOPER
You guys are not hauling guns, money, drugs or nuclear bombs are you?
SAM and MAC
No Sir...
MAC
Of course not!
STATE TROOPER
Brother, this is Montgomery, Alabama, anything is possible. We arrested 6 Blood gang members from Chicago here last week with a suitcase full of hand grenades.
Mac
(speaking to Sam)
See, you thought I was being stupid. Crazy people live here.
STATE TROOPER
Your right. Look, this mosquito Spray Truck is violating every Alabama law on the books and probably some EPA regulations.
SAM
Yeah, I suppose.
STATE TROOPER
You seem like decent guys. I'm not supposed to do this, but if you want, I can help you get out of this mess and get you to your game.
Or I can call a tow truck at a minimum of $250 plus fines plus repairs and inspections.
SAM
What do you suggest?
STATE TROOPER
This car can't stay on the road so it either needs a repair or a junkyard… and I have a nephew at the next exit that has a shop that is a little of both. You interested? He's reasonable and he'll help you, he owes me one.
SAM
Definitely. Sounds good, should we follow you?
STATE TROOPER
Yes, next exit, two miles. Don't kill anyone, okay?
Trooper Jones walks back to his State Police Car.
FaDE OUT.
EXT. Bubba's garage - aftERNOON
FADE IN:
Pan through a messy car repair shop where the Rambler sits on a lift rack. Outside over the weathered metal building a plastic-faced illuminated sign displays "Bubba's Quality Repair".
Trooper Gaines is talking to his Nephew Tyrone Gaines next to the Rambler. Mac and Sam are unloading suitcases and boxes from the Rambler.
Tyrone walks over to Sam. He is a 23-year old black man, very tall with a gold tooth.
Sam and Mac are standing under the Rambler looking at their handiwork on their muffler repair and the muffler falls off and bounces off the concrete floor. Tyrone walks over and extends his hand and Sam shakes it.
Tyrone
'Sup. What's happening man? Sorry it's so hot, but I can't help that much.
SAM
You're Bubba? You don't look like a Bubba and I'm guessing there's no shrimp boat out back.
TYRONE
Naww... I'm Tyrone, but if I called this Tryone's Quality Repair, I'd have no white customers. This is "Bubba Land" brother. Old times here are not forgotten!
SAM
Yeah, I'm feeling that. What's the verdict?
TYRONE
Nuttin good, man, we don't do a whole lot of good old boy service. We make our bread -n- butter on custom Hooptie rides.
Mac moves closer and shakes hands with Tyrone.
MAC
You do custom rides? We get a lot of those up in East St. Louis.
TYRONE
We done some that made it up there.
SAM
What's the verdict... on my custom ride?
(Laughing)
TYRONE
Your custom ride needs to be put down. But with rings and seals… we can save her. We have to order parts, from somewhere- Rambler heaven?
SAM
Yeah. I gotta keep her going, she's been in the family, you know...
TYRONE
Aigght then. I'd charge $650 for rings and seals but my Uncle is calling in a favor- $150,cost of parts, give or take. Can you dig it?
Sam
(grinning/elated/relieved)
Yeah, I can dig it deep, I appreciate it, more than you know. Thank you!
MAC
But we need to be in Pensacola. How do we get there?
TyRONE
Your mosquito truck had about another 10 miles on it. You should be happy my Unk stopped you when he did. You be about out of oil.
Tyrone tosses a set of keys to Mac from the over-stuffed key box hanging on the wall and points toward several cars across the parking lot.
TyRONE
The rusty bug, on the house, but before you go, let me show you some of our hydraulic 'jumpin' jacks' we working on out back.
Mac tosses the keys to Sam.
MAC
You wanna check out what car it is and see if it'll start?
Sam nods and walks out into the parking lot. Tyrone and Mac disappear through the shop out a back door.
Sam eventually walks back into the shop as Mac and Tyrone reappear. They are talking and laughing.
Mac picks up a business card and sticks it in his pocket as he walks out, nodding his head in appreciation towards Tyrone. Mac and Sam turn and walk out.
SAM
Thanks again (waving).
TyRONE
No, thank you very much! Good luck with the race.
Tyrone walks over and shakes Mac's hand in a fancy exchange of knuckles and fingers.
Sam and Mac walk across the hot asphalt to the row of cars and to a 1972 VW that used to be light blue but was now held together by rust.
SaM
Uhh... what was that? You guys dating or did you join a gang?
Mac
You didn't know I can do that street stuff, did you? I saw some brother on YouTube do it. He's just a good guy, that's all.
MAC
Wait... I don't think I can do this bug bro', I don't fit.
(Looking at the tiny VW)
Mac opens the passenger door and reaches down and slides the seat back. The seat flops down flat when he presses his shoulders back. He reaches up and slips his Jimmy Buffet disc in and hits play. One particular Harbor plays and Mac just lays there grinning.
MAC
Ahhh... yes, this will do, quite nicely.
SaM
You're starting to worry me.
Sam loads the VW with their suitcases and gear and off they drive down the road to the interstate, cotton fields on both sides.
FaDE OUT.
EXT. roy's motel - mORNING
FADE IN:
Sam and Mac are leaving the lobby of Roy's Motel with an armful of doughnuts and two coffees. The VW leaves the small motel parking lot. Sam and Mac are in the front seat of the car with their doughnuts and coffee.
Fade out.
Fade into the small Blue VW bug puttering across the bridge spanning Pensacola Bay- a sweeping shot from the sky over the car to depict the large bay and the insignificant little car. A bright coastal day.
A frontal shot of the VW with Sam and Mac stuffed into the front of the car. The never-ending Jimmy Buffet CD is playing away and they are continuing to eat sandwiches.
MAC
We are here. I never been to Florida before but that must be a dolphin! (pointing down into the Bay)
SAM
Roger that base commander, that's a dolphin. What's the best road to the Civic Center?
Mac looks at his phone and clicks a few buttons accessing a mapping application.
MAC
Best or fastest?
SAM
Surprise me.
MAC
Uhh… I-110 South, about 5 miles to the exit.
SAM
Thanks. We'll go on down there and register and find something fun to do.
MAC
Babes! In Bikinis.
SAM
Yeah, sure, whatever.
Cut to an aerial shot of the VW making progress as it cruises down the interstate I-10 and exits onto the I-110 spur headed to downtown Pensacola.
FaDE OUT.
INT. Pensacola Civic Center - morning
FaDE IN:
Inside of the Pensacola Civic Center, Sam and Mac are standing in a short registration line. Maintenance staff are pushing chairs and rolling boxes and doing show set-up operations.
The registration table is adorned with race posters and other Race World paraphernalia.
Mac and Sam are called up to the registration table and handed the form. They begin to fill it out and produce their drivers' license to confirm their identity.
SAM
How much do we owe you, total- tax, tag, title. (smiling)
The lady behind the table is a local blue-hair and has been very polite with all the participants. She is approximately 75 years old and is wearing thick glasses.
Blue Hair
That'll be $175, sweetie. That includes your Race World Koozie holders, t-shirts and posters. Here is your goodie bag.
She hands Sam a plastic bag with a Race World logo on it full of goodies and gear.
Sam and Mac open their wallets and count out $200 and she gives them $25 back in change.
MAC
Thank you Ma'am. We appreciate you.
BlUE HAIR
Oh, you're quite welcome young man. It's good to see boys doing something wholesome instead of spray painting dirty pictures on the walls and riding skateboards.
SAM
Yeah, you gotta keep an eye out for those terrorist Skateboarders. They are bad this time of year.
BLUE HAIR
What was that honey?
SAM
Yes Ma'am, no dirty pictures... We're here to race!
BLUE HAIR
Also, make sure you're here at 6AM on Saturday for the Driver's Meeting. You don't want to miss that.
MAC
We'll be here! Hey Sam, there's the dynamic duo (pointing) Lucy and Charlie Brown.
Lucy and Duke are walking up the hallway headed toward event registration. Dressed very touristy with brightly colored Caribbean gear.
Sam
Oh Schnitzel, just what I was waiting for.
Lucy waved enthusiastically at Sam and he waved back at her, much more reluctantly.
Duke walks past them with a scowl on his face straight to the registration area.
SAM
Best conversation I ever had with him. I hope these pleasantries continue unabated.
MAC
He's thinking 'Peasants' and he should just say it!"
Lucy broke away from Duke and walked over to Sam and Mac who were standing by the window looking out at the parking lot.
LUCY
You made it, I see. A little birdie told me that you might have engine problems on the way.
MAC
That little Birdie needs his beak snapped off, and shoved up his feathers.
LUCY
Now that's a pleasant thought. At least you made it here. What happened?
SAM
The Rambler bit the dust in Montgomery, we got a loaner VW and gave it CPR for 200 miles. Yeah, that's about the story.
Lucy giggles at the analogy.
LUCY
I heard about this on the plane, I don't know what he did. The little birdie is out of his bird brain.
MAC
On the plane? You guys flew? Delta?
LUCY
Senator Ryder's G4.
SAM
No freaking way!
LUCY
Way, freaking way. Little Birdie's brain has flown the nest. His Dad will have him killed probably by Government agents in Black helicopters.
SAM
We could start a GoFundMe page and collect money to make it happen. Nahh...
Sam
We really don't know if he screwed with the car. The rings and seals were shot, but we did not check it for Duke's handiwork but it's a 60-yr old car.
Mac
We are in a dilemma. On one hand we can't kill him, on the other we can't live in the same city with him.
LUCY
So, you can't kill him?
SAM AND MAC
Noooo...
LUCY
He did say something. Something about having taken care of your car and he also made some half-brained remark about your Race World car too.
SAM
What could he do to our Tesla? It's on the Race World servers. I don't want to be paranoid but we need to check that out.
LUCY
You have to. Duke has people.
Sam
Oh no, not him too. Everyone has people. Except me.
LUCY
You got people- you got Mac and me! What hotel are you staying at. I have a people you need to talk to.
SAM
Leave the Light on. It's cheap. Don't tell the Little Birdie under any circumstance.
LUCY
No, never. No, never, we are in the Penthouse at the Hyatt downtown.
SAM
Figures, only the best for Little Birdie.
LUCY
It has 2 bedrooms. I don't like him that much.I may not like him at all after the next couple days, at this rate.
SAM
Good to know. Thanks for telling me. If Daddy's jet doesn't do it, nothing will.
Lucy mimes sticking her fingers down her throat.
LUCY
He's a snake Sam. I can't wait for this weekend to be over.
MAC
I'm feeling both of you! But, we need to get out of here Sam!
Sam
Yeah, you're right. We got work to do. See you later Luce.
Lucy walks away, down the hall toward the registration desk. Mac looks at Sam and bursts out laughing.
Sam
What's so funny Jimmy Buffet? We have a sabotaged race car to fix.
Mac
Dude, I'm laughing at you guys- so adorable. I thought she was going to plant a wet one on your lips. Sam and Lucy, sitting in a tree...
SAM
Really, sitting in a tree? Let's go- we have tons of stuff to do. We need to see what that idiot has done to us.
MAC
This means, no Beach, Babes or Beer tonight, I suppose.
SAM
W-W-J-B-D... What would Jimmy Buffet do, huh? Party on or take care of business?
MaC
We didn't get to $600M net worth by losing "races". Let's go.
FADE OUT.
INT. Motel 6 - afTERNOON
FADE IN:
A basic motel room with a desktop computer set up on the tabletop. Mac and Sam are staring at the monitor and also looking at a secondary monitor. Sam has a can of Mt. Dew and Mac has a Candy Bar.
Sam
This 'test' race software may not be giving us accurate car data. What do you think?
They look at the monitor and the car is on a virtual test stand.
MAC
Man, it just won't rev.
SAM
Flip up the performance data from the last race and let's compare just how far off it is.
MAC
Got it, it's on the screen.
SAM
Makes no sense at all. It's the same setup we had at home and used in the finals. Same capacity, same ratios. Same performance applications.
Mac shrugs his shoulders and stands up, walking to the window.
MAC
We still have a turbo upgrade we can install. I wasn't going to use it because it's not a certified app.
SAM
We've never run with it, we've never tested it. That would be risky and could put more stress on some of the other programs.
MAC
We are running 9% below our last dyno read. The specs on this car are clear but it won't rev.
SAM
Let's sign on to our account, wipe the spec, re-upload a new data set, test it and see if that helps.
MAC
Let's do it. We can set it up to copy and get out of here for a couple hours.
SAM
Ok, hey did you see that Grand Prix track on the other side of the Mall Parking lot? Can you still race a real car? It's been 6 years.
Mac
If I can fit into the driver's seat, I'll spank you. Let's go.
FaDE OUT.
EXT. grand prix race course - aFTERNOON
FADE IN:
The VW sputters into the Grand Prix parking lot and jerks to a stop. Mac and Sam extricate themselves from the Bug.
They walk up to the counter and wait to pay for their admission.
SAM
Hey, look at that sign. The fastest time is 43:12. I think I did better than that on the track back in the day.
Mac
I'm thinking you did a 41 something back when we used to race those little cars.
Sam
Check it out- Beat the Fastest Time, Win $500. We could use that for sure.
They step up to the counter, the teenage girl checking them in smiles at them and hand them the disclaimer and sign-off sheet. The read it and sign.
Counter girl
Each lap, as you can see is, $5. If you buy 10 laps, we have a special for $40. The helmet is included.
SAM
We'll both have a special thanks.
They pay her and move over to the line leading to the cars. Each car launches on a solo race against the clock.
MAC
These are electric cars. We're used to gas.
SAM
Well, we drive a Tesla online. Let's give it a shot. Our old cars were gas but the times are about the same.
The track attendant motioned for Sam to come over and take his first lap. Sam puts on his helmet and sits down into the car.
Pan back following the car around the track as it takes the curves as fast as possible with tires squealing and Sam steering determinedly. The car maneuvers the course with 46:13 flashing.
Mac's car launched 20 seconds after Sam's and finished at 47:30.
Lap after lap, of their 10-lap admission is run with the times flashed on the scoreboard sequentially.
Fade back to the track with Sam ready for his last lap.
Sam
Let her rip! (said aloud, no one hears)
The car launches and takes the first turn high and the front right wheel scrapes the curb and that throws the car violently to the left. Sam recovers.
He drives with determination running flat out and running perfectly. As he progresses several shots of the timer are shown to display he's on track.
Finally, he crosses the finish line and sees the time of 43:07. He raises his arms triumphantly and stops.
P/A Speaker
We have a new record time for the Pensacola Grand Prix everyone- 43:07. Driver come to the service desk please.
Sam and Mac walk to the front counter again where he signs a voucher slip and receives the $500 award. The counter girl counts it out in $20 bills. Sam peels off half of the bills and hands them to Mac.
MAC
Mucho gracias... Oh yeah.
SaM
No problem. That's how we roll. I still owe you a $20.
They return to their Motel 6 room and review the process of their on-line updates.
SaM
Nope. It's no better. Even with the turbo upgrade we are down at least 5% and it has never gone over 100% capacity since we started today.
Mac
It ran at 103% in the last race for the last 15 minutes. We are running here with square tires on her.
SaM
I don't have a solution Mac. (yawning) But I have a killer headache. Too much caffeine today so I'm going to bed.
MAC
I'm feeling you- let's call it a day. We have all day tomorrow to deal with it.
FADE OUT.
INT. Boiled egg cafe - mORNING
FADE IN:
Mac and Sam are sitting in a booth, facing each other. A waitress is delivering plates of food to them. It is 7AM as shown on a closeup of Sam's smartphone. Mac stabs a stack of pancakes, already cut and doused with Blueberry Syrup, Blueberries and butter. He is shoveling it in and drinking a large soda through a straw.
SaM
I was wondering if you've you ever been away from home before, like in another city on your own?
MAC
'course I have Why are you asking me this.
SAM
Where did you go?
MaC
Cahokia, been to Chicago and when my grandpa died I went to Springfield.
SaM
Very, very impressive.
(Head Shaking)
Sam's smart phone rings with a ringtone of a car crash and he picks it up quickly.
SaM
Hello.
LUCY
Hi Sam. It's me Lucy. Good Morning.
Sam perks up and recovers from his apathetic booth slouch and half eaten eggs and bacon. He sits upright and whispers.
SaM
It's Lucy.
Mac rolls his eyes and stabs another pile of pancakes and shoves them into his mouth.
MAC
Glory, glory, we are saved! Let the 5 Flags of Pensacola fly high!
Sam shrugs his shoulders and goes "palms up" to display either his confusion or disinterest in the comment.
SAM
Oh hey Lucy. How things going for you?
LUCY
I'm okay, did you fix the car?
SaM
The car will only rev, as it were, to 96% and there's nothing we can do about it.
LUCY
I'm not shocked. Usually Duke means what he says as stupid as most of it is.
SaM
What do you mean?
LUCY
Somehow he is responsible. He either paid someone at Race World to mess with it, or called a witch doctor or hacked their servers. Money talks and you know what walks.
SaM
He had someone do it for him. He's not the brightest bulb on the shelf in Walmart. What's his problem, it's costing him more to screw with us than he will win if he does come in first
LUCY
Oh, it's not about the money. You know that.
SaM
I have no clue why this is and how his single cell brain works.
LUCY
Then I have no freaking clue either- you tell me! Some people are just crazy! Did you and Mac pee pee in his play dough in Kindergarten or something
Sam
Maybe a time or too on recess, but Let's just go with #1- he's nuts. No one knows what personality disorder he has.
LUCY
I know a guy. One of my peoples. You guys need to talk to him.
SaM
Oh no, not you too. Everyone knows a guy except for me.
LUCY
This guy may be the guy who's screwing with you. I don't know. Duke told me about him before. He's a hacker. He lives near here in Alabama, about 30 miles away- it's worth a shot.
SaM
Okay.
LUCY
Simple Sam- do something or lose. You have cars that are state-of-the art engineering examples running from all over the world. You don't have a chance if yours won't max out.
SaM
I get it. I do but we don't have any money. Why would he help us?
LUCY
I said I knew a guy. I really know a guy's sister, so I know a girl who has a lot of dirt on a guy. So when you call him, tell him that Little Lucy and Karla said he should help you.
SaM
This sounds weird.
LUCY
It should sound weird because it is weird. We are in Pensacola, I'm stuck with an A-hole, you are taking a long-shot to get money for school, and Mac is on his 2nd plate of Blueberry pancakes.
SaM
Wwwwha… how did you know that?
The waitress brings a second tray of pancakes to the table.
LUCY
Hey Baby. I got peoples! I'll text you his info. His name is Marty, like Marty from Back to the Future. Gotta go- bye!
SaM
Wait, wait, wait...
The waitress leaves the table and Sam sits staring out the window through the plate glass that shows "Boiled Egg Café".
A few moments pass and his phone beeps a different tone and he picks it up and stares at the screen.
Sam's phone message is displayed and it shows an address at the Cotton Bay Marina in Orange Beach, Alabama, outside of Pensacola.
SaM
Eat up big guy. We have to do stuff with Peoples.
MAC
I'll never touch a blueberry again, wait... maybe just one more bite!
FaDE OUT.
EXT. Beach road, Orange beach - mORNING
FADE IN:
The VW is winding its way through light city traffic in Pensacola. Sam and Mac have assumed their normal positions and engage in conversation. They've managed to scrounge cheap sunglasses from a convenience store.
MAC
So where exactly are we going?
SaM
Good question, I was wondering when you'd ask! Here, check it out- about 25 miles, 'over yonder' (pointing)
MAC
You're scaring me man. Let me see that thing.
Sam clicks his phone on and holds it up. Mac takes it.
Mac
This is just a website.
SAM
Look at the address and map it Scotty!
MAC
Scotty was the Engineer, he was not the Navigator.
SaM
Chekov was the Navigator, now I remember. I didn't watch Star Wars much.
MaC
Are you serious? Star Trek.
Sam
Dr. Spock was kinda creepy to me. With the hand thing and the pointy ears. My mom thought he was a demon.
MAC
Not to be the Colonel of correctness but it was Mr. Spock. Dr. Spock was a Baby Book author.
SaM
Me thinks someone watched too much tube growing up! Beam me up Doctor!
Mac clicks away in his smartphone. He turns it sideways and studies the map.
MaC
Highway 182 West to Cotton Bayou Rd, the Marina is at the end on Cotton Bayou.
SaM
Seriously? Cotton Bayou, I guess the Confederacy didn't have a lot of creative thinkers?
MAC
Yeah, I swear to God, you can't make this stuff up. Really, turn… turn… turn right here to get onto 182, you see the sign?
SaM
Yeah, got it...
Sam downshifts the VW bug and makes a quick left hand turn. Houses melt away replaced by scrub palms and swamp, then as they near the road that runs west along the beach, sand dunes and pastel colored vacation homes come into view.
MaC
This is more like it. It's starting to look Island Time Mon!
SaM
Yeah, I'm waiting for Gilligan to dart out in front of the bug. I'll run him over, I swear to God, Skipper or no Skipper, I'll nail him!
MaC
Jimmy Buffet does concerts at the FloraBama Lounge right up here on the border. It's on the border of Florida and Alabama...
Sam
Hence the name, yeah, I get it. Oh my God Mac, the Florabama, are you kidding me? Not THE FLORABAMA.
MAC
We're stopping. I need a selfie for my Facebook page.
SaM
For you my friend, we will stop. I may even spend some of last night's loot and get a T-shirt and some new sunglasses. These suck.
Sam tosses the cheap sunglasses out the window of the Bug.
MaC
Sam, you a fine man. I don't care what Duke has to say about you… Look, there it is… there it is… pull over, pull into the parking lot! (giddy)
The VW slows down and signals for a left-handed turn. They pause for a few seconds and complete the turn into the parking lot.
Mac and Sam jump out of the car acting like enthused tourists.
FADE OUT.
EXT. Beach road to marina - mORNING
FaDE IN:
Sam and Mac are sitting in the VW flipping through images on their phone. A bag of beach gear sits on the back seat of the bug.
MAC
We scored some good swag man. I love my T-shirts and sunglasses.
SaM
Let's head on down the road now that we look like the locals, the KGB probably will leave us alone.
Mac
Whatever man, you still mad that I bought the sunglasses you wanted?
SaM
Nahh. Hold on, we're getting out of here.
Sam starts the car, slams it in gear and pulls onto the main beach highway spinning gravel and merging in with the few cars on the road. Mac is still looking at his selfies on phone.
MAC
Look at this one, I'm a natural. Man I wish I was old enough to drink beer!
SaM
No, for the love of God. You're drunk enough without a beer.
MaC
Come on now, I can drink more than you.
Sam, looking at Mac's largeness...
SaM
Uhh... no one is arguing that one!
MAC
You're a real funny man especially in your own mind.
They drive down the road, past the beachside condos and the beachgoers darting across their path heading to the beach.
MAC
Hey, our turn is right up here by the Citgo station. By the Budweiser sign.
SaM
Okay, okay, got it- thanks!
The VW turns right onto Cotton Bayou Rd, and it doglegs back east. They continue on for 2 miles until the road ends in a parking lot of a marina- Cotton Bay Marina. The VW pulls into the parking lot and parks.
The Marina Office is disgraced by years of grease, dirty hands and fish guts. Bait and tackle is sold by a fat man wearing a cowboy hat sitting in a chair in front of the office.
Mac exits the VW first and walks towards the fat man in the chair.
MAC
Hey Mister, where can we find a guy named Marty?
Office Mgr
Yeah yeah, I should have guessed. He's down at #5 slip, the red houseboat. No smoking here, anywhere, you got me?
MAC
No problem, 'Yo no fumo'. (mutters) Unless some Boss Hogg sets me on fire.
OfFICE MGR
Buddy, I mean it, the city has a gas leak somewhere out here. It comes and goes- no smoking!
MaC
(muttering under his breath) What part of no Fumo do you not get?
Mac
(yelling to Sam) I'd lock it dude, that guy's a screwball, I guarantee it!
He's in the red house boat in slip #5, I don't know what to do next, but let's do it!
Mac walks muttering something about Banjoes and Burt Reynolds, and motions to Sam where the #5 slip was.
They step up onto the dock and the weathered board creaks and flexes.
MAC
You fall through this and you go straight to hell...
SAM
I think a 'gator will get ya' before the devil.
MAC
You think the got gators here?
SaM
Think, look over there next to the far bank (pointing to an 8' gator).
MaC
(urgently) Let's get this over with!
FaDE OUT.
EXT. cotton bay Marina - mORNING
FaDE IN:
Sam and Mac walk past several small fishing boats with gear strewn about, on them next to a faded wooden sign that said "Rentals- Check in With Office". Further down the dock was the row of house boats, really trailers sitting on pontoons. A couple of the boats seemed habitable but the majority were dilapidated.
At the dock they find #7. It looks like a newer single-wide trailer on large pontoons that has had some renovation.
Sam looks at Mac. Mac shakes his head.
MaC
Man, I don't know about this. Here is where Dexter opens the door and we wind up on his table.
SaM
Don't say stuff like that... it creeps me out. We're just going to ask him if he can take a look at our problem and see if he has any ideas.
MAC
If he injects me with the tranquilizer, just run and leave me!
SaM
This is not Hollywood and this is not Miami Vice.
MaC
I think it's Bubba Vice, but I really think I need a pink jacket and a .44 revolver.
SaM
Maybe I should have brought Luce instead of you!
MaC
Now you think of it! Yeah!
Sam steps onto the boat and Mac follows.
The boat rocks slightly but Mac has to grab a rail to keep from falling over.
Sam knocks on the door with 3 quick raps.
SaM
Should I shout 'DEA, we have a warrant?'
MaC
Only if you want me to have a seizure. Do it and I'm hitching back to the motel.
SaM
Oh that would be rich. See you on the 6 O'clock news… Missing Illinois black man, last seen thumbing for a ride on Beach Highway in Alabama!
Footsteps can be heard as someone approaches the front door. Sam and Mac can hear it and shift nervously from foot to foot.
Marty
Yeah, who is it.
(annoyed)
What do you want?
SaM
Hi Marty, you don't know us... Uhh, I'm Sam and Mac is with me and we want to talk to you.
(Shouting into the door crack.)
MARTY
I don't know you guys. I don't know any Sam or Mac and I'm not buying anything!
SaM
No Marty. We were sent here by someone you know for some help with what you do.
Mac looks around nervously and motions to Sam to "keep it down" so the entire Marina did not hear.
MARTY
I don't know what you guys are talking about and I'm busy.
SaM
Yeah sorry about that. We're busy too and need to talk to you.
MartY
No time this morning. Can you come back about sunset?
SaM
Nope. Karla and Little Lucy said you'd help us.
The exchange goes quiet, as Marty thinks.
MaRTY
Oh crap, not again. Lucy Jones? I'm going to kill my sister. Hang on fellas I have to find some pants.
Sam and Mac look at each other..
SaM AND MAC
(In unison)
Yeah, most definitely, For sure, good idea!
They stand waiting for a few minutes as boats come and go. After a few minutes Sam gets restless.
SaM
(shouting)
Yo Marty, are you still with us?
Mac pounds on the door without an answer. No noise from inside.
MaC
Marty, what are you doing? Come on man you could have sewn some new pants by now!
Mac steps back from the door and looks down the side deck leading to the far side of the boat. There is a large, long-haired man wearing bright yellow surfer shorts squeezing out a window.
MaC
Look Sam!
(grabbing Sam's shirt and pulling him over)
He's getting away! You said this was not Miami Vice Sonny!
Sam and Mac run down the side of the boat toward the window.
SaM
Marty, we're not cops! We need your help and I don't want to have to bring Lucy back out here today. No one wants that!
Marty shakes his shaggy hair and squirms apparently stuck.
MarTY
Nope. We don't want that. No, No, No! Push me back in and I'll open the front door.
Sam and Mac carefully push his upper body and ample girth back through the window and walk back to the main door they started at.
A minute passes and noises can be heard as multiple locks are opened.
SaM
Man you need a better escape plan.
MAC
Yeah, that was not easy to watch… I couldn't get out that little window either.
MarTY
Yeah, yeah, yeah… Come in, I give up. What do you need?
FADE OUT.
EXT. Marty's Houseboat - mORNING
FADE IN:
Sam and Mac are ushered into the houseboat. It looks normal, more like a college dorm bedroom than a Hacker Hole.
In the front corner of the room was Marty's Control center featuring an array of monitors displaying streams of data. On top of the desk, under the monitors are several other pieces of communication and a couple notebooks stacked up.
A large blue waterpipe is sitting on the desk. Sam and Mac look at it laughing and pointing.
Sam and Mac huddle with Marty explaining the situation. There has been nodding and conversation and Marty has even brought out some potato chips and sodas.
MarTY
Okay guys, I get it. I mean I understand what you're saying here.
SaM
Can you fix it?
MarTY
I have no clue, without digging in and checking the Race World system and servers out, you know more than me.
Marty rocks back in his chair and takes a drink from a Miller can.
SaM
Can you do it right now?
MarTY
I don't work for nothing… I don't work cheap… and I don't work for the helluva it. Are you feeling me? What do I get out of this?
SaM
What do you want man? We are broke and not even broke college students yet. That's why we are racing.
MarTY
So, what's it worth to you? What do I get?
SaM
What do you want for 2 hours of your time to hack their site and beat on the Race World server?
MartY
$5,000
Sam and Marty say nothing and just stares at Marty.
Sam
Mack, would you please peel off "50 big ones" from your knot and give it to Marty?
MarTY
Really?
MaC
Aww, heck no. We don't have any money!
MarTY
Ok… Ok… how about this? If you win, you pay me $5,000.
Marty and Mac nod in agreement.
MartY
If you don't win… just keep Lucy away from me.
MaRTY
Hey? Is this room leaning, like tilting dudes, or am I still getting some spins from last night?
Sam and Mac look up and gaze out the windows. At the end of the interior wall, water was starting to seep in slowly but steadily.
MaRTY
No... No... No... grab something electronic and throw it out the door or window or something.
MAC
We're sinking, this is Miami Vice!
All three work feverishly to grab computer gear and try to walk out the front door. It won't open.
They retreat to the window as water pours in but they manage to get Marty's gear onto the dock.
MarTY
The window thing again. You guys first and pull me out.
FADE OUT.
ExT. Cotton Bay Marina - mORNING
FADE IN:
Marty and Sam sitting next to Mac at the open doors at the rear end of an ambulance. They have towels around them and are soaking wet but no one is injured.
The fire captain walks over to the ambulance.
Fire Captain
Well, we're done here. If you have insurance, call them. Here's the report.
He hands Marty a copy of the incident report.
FIRE CAPTAIN
So, you're the owner? (to Marty)
MarTY
Nope. I'm just the renter.
FIRE CAPTAIN
Well, if we can be of any service don't hesitate to call us. Here's a card.
Marty takes the card and begins to stick it in his pocket, realizes he is soaking wet and sets the card down.
FIRE CAPTAIN
I'd be careful messing with that boat.
MarTY
Sure. I'm done with it. I got some clothes and my computer. Don't worry, we'll be safe.
FIRE CAPTAIN
You know the pontoons were drilled out right? Looks like someone used a hole saw- like a drill bit but two inches wide.
The fire captain drops an electric screw gun onto the floor of the ambulance.
FIRE CAPTAIN
They dropped it on the dock. Broad daylight, they had balls. Maybe the Sheriff can use it as evidence.
Marty
Sheriff?
FIRE CAPTAIN
This is really a crime scene but since no one was hurt, nothing much will ever come of it.
The captain walks away and joins his crew. They have finished loading up their gear and start the firetruck and drive off.
Paramedic
Guys. If you're okay, we are done here too.
The paramedic throws a stack of towels back into the Ambulance and shuts the rear doors.
SaM
Look Marty, if you can help us, and we win, the offer still stands- $5,000.
MarTY
I'll see what I can do. I think most of my gear is okay.
MaC
No one has bothered to ask the question 'Who did this'?
MarTY
Who did it fellas? Why would someone sink my crappy little houseboat?
SaM
Why bother to ask? We know what idiot did this- Duke of course.
MarTY
Makes no sense.
SaM
Makes perfect sense. He wants to win- BAD. He's obsessed.
MarTY
That does it. I'll burn him down, what time is the race? Here, write your account name and passwords down.
He extends his arm and hands Sam a pen.
MarTY
Sorry, no paper. I won't wash today! Gimme your cell number too.
SaM
Thanks Marty, hook us up!
MAC
We could lose this race.
SaM
It's possible.
Sam pulls his phone out and hits the Lucy preset.
LUCY
Hey Sam, how'd it go? Did you meet Marty?
SAM
Oh yeah, he'll never forget us, for sure.
LUCY
That sounds too mysterious, can't be good. Can he help you or not?
SAM
Well, he's going to look at it tonight. He's busy this afternoon after our morning swim.
LUCY
Uhh oh. What happened?
Sam
Someone sunk his houseboat with us in it.
(A pause in the conversation.)
LUCY
That's some scary stuff. You think Duke did it? Of course he did it, why am I asking?
SaM
He did this. Can't see why I don't just call the Sheriff and let them nail him.
LUCY
I'm getting out of here. Can I stay with you guys?
SaM
Sure, no problem. We'll be back at the motel in a couple hours.
LuCY
Well, you're going to beat him tomorrow, one way or another.
LUCY
His +1 racing partner, Tony is driving in tonight. He might be here already. Look, I'll see you guys later on, okay?
SaM
Ok, we'll make a place for you. See ya' later on.
SaM
Let's get out of here and go get lunch at the Florabama, what do you say Mac?
Mac perks up at the idea and fist bumps Sam.
MaC
Great minds think alike my friend, let's roll!
FADE OUT.
INT. Pensacola Civic Center - mORNING
FADE IN:
A large crowded meeting room with folding chairs and tables are set-up for about 100 people- sitting and standing. A small balding man walks into the room followed by several others,
Race director
Sorry about that but I guess it worked. I got your attention the hard way! Good morning everyone, it's 6AM sharp.
The crowd is half-asleep and Star Buck's coffees are ever-present.
RACE DIRECTOR
I want to be quick with this meeting so we can drop the starters flag right at 7AM. First a few obvious things need to be said.
I'm Bruce Johnson and I run Race World. Welcome to the Pensacola Civic Center.
Sam and Mac are sitting in the last row at the back of the room. They are looking at their cell phones, tuned out to the meeting.
The presenter walks across the room and clicks on a projector displaying a slideshow to the large hanging screen at the front of the room.
RACE DIRECTOR
Race teams are driver and Co-Driver. No one else is allowed on the Racing floor. I don't care how you did it at home, but here in the finals you use our driving pods, our network, our technical assistance.
Racers are straggling in late, finding seats and trying to listen.
We have a race director and 3 judges and what the judges decide is final. You signed away your rights to sue or arbitrate earlier if you read the forms. Sorry about that!
The crowd murmurs and shuffles around and a few objections can be heard but the meeting continues.
SaM
(To Mac)
This guy is about as boring as dirt. It's like Algebra II class with Mrs. Cunningham.
Mac
(Whispering)
No one is as bad as her.
RACE DIRECTOR
Our technology is complex but racing is simple- the fastest car wins. Fastest means the person in the lead, the #1 car, the second fastest and the third fastest. We have 3 places for money.
RACE DIRECTOR
Everyone okay, or is everyone still asleep?
The audience laughs, coughs, and someone shouts out "We feel ya!"
RACE DIRECTOR
Okay then, there is a pulse, that's good. Everyone saving their energy for the next 24 hours.
So once you enter the racing floor you can't leave and return. We have snacks, bathrooms and food for you. Of course we are cheap and you must purchase the real food.
RACE DIRECTOR
If you or your partner gets sick, and it happens, someone obviously needs to drive, but if you leave, it's a one person racing team. You can't come back into the facility. We have our reasons.
RaCE DIRECTOR
I turn you over to Carlton Blitzer who will run you through a PowerPoint on all the details. It will take 20 minutes and then we will get everyone onto the floor. The racing pods are live and have been tested.
RACE DIRECTOR
Okay. Those are the big rules for this race. All the other rules are the same as any other race. Good luck!
The next presenter, Carlton Blitzer, about 30-yrs old wearing heavy glasses and a baseball hat on backwards takes the microphone and begins to show the PowerPoint slide show.
FADE OUT.
INT. pensacola Civic center - morNING
FADE IN:
Sam and Mac wander into the racing operations area, through the security checkpoint where each racer's pass is scanned.
It is an large arena, designed for ice hockey, concerts, and trade shows. Racing operations is the center hub. In a circle around the main control area are 50 driving pods set-up, side by side in a circle, like flight simulator pods.
Sam and Mac are getting settled into their pod, #7, and talking.
SaM
At least we scored luck number 7, the racing Gods have smiled on us.
MAC
I wish the hacker God would smile on us. Still no Marty?
SaM
You'll know when I know, my friend.
MaC
Yeah, I'm not surprised. He lost his hobbit hole when the boat sank. He does not seem to be exactly flexible.
SaM
Now, now, my judgmental co-driver. He is flexible, just like a big fat Ball Park sausage. I felt sorry for him stuck in that window.
They laugh and continue to unpack their gear.
MaC
A real hacker has it all in the cloud Sam. You know that!
SaM
Did you know his brother was one of the most wanted hackers in the US during the 90's?
MaC
How do you know that?
SaM
I ran him on Google. In '96 he was arrested in connection with hacking incidents, the USAF, NASA, and NATO servers. They thought he was a foreign agent.
Mac
Well, at least Marty has a pedigree.
SaM
His brother's partner hacked into a South Korean military server and almost started a war with North Korea.
MAC
So, his brother is the real deal. Is Matt still in jail?
Sam shakes his head and plugs his racing visor into the USB port on the console.
SaM
Check this out- he hacked it all on a Commodore Amiga.
Racing pod doors begin to close up. The 4-sided video screen cube, in the middle of Race Operations flashes a 2-minute warning advising drivers to be in their cars.
The P/A system announces:
"All non-racers must clear the floor immediately!"
Sam opens and codes his control driver decoder and plugs it into the USB port and types in his access code. The dash comes alive and the videos display the race track.
Sam stretches and cracks his neck.
SaM
Man, it's going to be a long 24 hours. Glad we have Dragon Fuel Energy.
MaC
I like Red Bull but whatever… here we go, we have 1 minute to Pre-Race.
FADE OUT.
INT. Pensacola Civic Center - moRNING
FADE IN:
The countdown clock displays "ZERO !!! Pre-race rules are now in effect!"
The car's main racing monitor changes from a racetrack image to a live broadcast from the control center. The Race Director is on the screen displayed in 180 degree brilliance.
RaCE DIRECTOR
Hello Racers. The Pre-event to the Race World 24-Enduro has been streaming on-line to the world since 6am. We have done in-depth bios on the top 10 drivers and our stream in now being viewed by over 45,000,000 people, 30,000,000 in China alone.
SaM
They're making billions!
RACE DIRECTOR
Some viewers have 'paid viewing' and are guests in virtual clubhouses and chat rooms and are able to stream candid cams real time from your race pods, so be on your best behavior. You might be on someone's monitor as you drive.
MaC
Really? They want to watch me eat Cheetos as I stare at you driving?
The main racing monitors in the car displays the top 10 racers and their car type. Pictures of the racers pop up on the monitor.
RACE DIRECTOR
We will be starting our 60 second race countdown clock, in just a moment.
The monitors flash back to the virtual race track images, complete with the virtual fans seated in the stands and the pre-race clock counting down. "Drivers start your engines!" is display and last 10 second countdown commences… 10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1.
He main driving monitors flash to a pair green flags being waved and the race begins.
The screen shows "T-24:55". Game on.
FaDE OUT.
INT. Pensacola Civic Center - moRNING
FADE IN:
The column of cars begin to move slowly at first and the spectator streaming version of the race is visible on a small screen in the center of the dash.
The Tesla is 3 rows back.
Within seconds a yellow Ferrari slides across the track in front of them, bounces off of the wall and careens back across the track taking out a blue Audi trying to pass, pushing them both into the infield. Parts fly from the cars and the front end of the Audi is torn off. The Ferrari rolls over and catches fire and burns in the infield.
SaM
Holy S... That is a terrible start! That won't wash off.
SaM
There's no repair app to fix that. It probably would have killed the driver in real life.
Pan to a view of the pods on the race floor. Two pods have a red flashing light blinking brightly on top of the pod and their gull wing doors have opened.
SaM
Can you call Marty before the interior cameras start to film us?
Mac nods and dials Marty on his cell phone. It rolls to voicemail.
MaC
Marty... Mac, call us, the race is on. We need you.
Sam slips on his racing visor. It is a small visor that is a sophisticated heads up device. He plugs the cable into a USB port on the dash and data is displayed showing technical car information and race standing for the top 10 drivers.
MaC
Sam, we're not even at 93% transfer output. At that level we will not even be in the top 30.
SaM
Can't help it. We need Marty.
Sam shrugs not taking his eyes off of the track, hands on the wheel.
FaDE OUT.
INT. Marty's Girlfriends apt - aFTERNOON
FADE IN:
A dark room with a monitor at a desk and a large man sitting at the console muttering to himself.
There are several empty Red Bull cans and a couple empty bags of chips mixed into the pile of technical documents sitting on the desk.
MarTY
Uhh huh, very impressive little piece of bacteria there my friends…
He clicks away on the keyboard and data streams across the monitor.
MarTY
I'm surprised their car runs at all with this… it's like a Storm Worm virus from 2006.
Marty tests some code… he sits back and looks pleased at his handiwork.
MaRTY
I am good. I am very good, Q.E.D. - right here! I just don't have a boat.
He pulls a small thumb drive out of the computer's USB port and puts it into his pocket, stand up and shuts off the monitor.
Marty reaches for his cell Phone and dials a number, he speaks quietly so his girlfriend does not hear.
MarTY
Hey Skinner, Marty... so, so. Can you do me 10 large on Walton and McDonald at the Race World finals?
MarTY
You say '25 to 1'. Okay, sounds good. Yea I'm sure- you rock!
Fade out, and fade in to a laminating machine sealing his fake access ID together. He removes the ID card and trims it with a pair of scissors.
MarTY
Sink my battleship will you Dukey Boy? I'll get me a bigger boat.
Marty clips his laminated ID to a lanyard and puts it around his neck and looks into a mirror with a big confident grin.
FADE OUT.
Ext. pensacola Civic Center - afTERNOON
FADE IN:
Sam is drinking a coke and Mac is in control of the steering wheel. He is running behind a Nissan and Ferrari in a tight group of cars .
Pan the controls and the race standing results, They are in 32nd place.
SaM
If you can get them on the straightaway we'll crack into the top 30.
MaC
I'll get 'em, what time is it?
SaM
It's almost 6PM, we're nearly 1/2 way there.
MaC
It's 6 PM already? Man this day just rocked by. Still, it's going to be a long night.
Pan to the 180 degree screen inside the pod which reveals the race from the car's cockpit. The camera simply shows car racing for a couple minutes as car zip around the NASCAR-style oval.
Suddenly a Ferrari spins out into the infield and a Mercedes has a blow-out that knocks a fender off and spreads debris across the track. The yellow caution flag comes out and the race slows until the virtual track crew can simulate a cleanup and tow the car back to the virtual pit.
SaM
We are now in 28th spot Mac. Let's swap during the caution.
Sam phone rings and the screen flashes "Marty". He answers it.
SaM
Hey, we gave up on you. What you got for us?
MaRTY
You had a very bad bug. It was Ebola combined with AIDS and some Rabies thrown in there just for fun. But the Marvelous Dr. Martin got you hooked up.
SaM
Awesome man. We need it.
MarTY
I have a self-installing, anti-virus macro for you, but it won't work until about 6AM Sunday morning.
SaM
What?
MarTY
Simple… if we can get my fix uploaded and linked to your profile it'll be swept up during the nightly engineering updates but it's not fully compiled and integrated until 6AM, Central Time.
SaM
Oh man, that only gives us an hour to catch up! The race ends at 7AM.
Sam had been listening to the call on speakerphone and Mac overheard it all.
MaC
That sucks but it's all good. How do we upload it?
MarTY
I'm going to just roll in actually. Me and my trash can and broom. Later on tonight Marty's Custodial will wander onto the floor and hand you the stick.
Mac
Security slows down as the people go home. Probably around midnight it'll be a ghost town.
MARTY
Well, let's shoot for midnight then. I'll text ya' when I get in.
SaM
Thanks Marty, we...
(Sam realizes Marty has disconnected)
SaM
He's gone, that's fine.
Mac continues to drive, Sam slouches back in his seat and takes a deep, stress-relieving breath and slowly lets it out.
FADE OUT.
EXT. Pensacola Civic center - nIGHT
FADE OUT.
A utility van pulls into the parking lot of the Civic Center and drives slowly through the main parking area and past a 'Delivery and Service' sign. The van 50 yards away from the rear entrance.
He is alone in the parking lot.
MaRTY
I'm quitting those things, a waste of money.
(tamping out a cigarette)
He reaches into the van and removes a large gray Rubbermaid trash can on rollers. He stops and lights another cigarette and waits. Dissolve to black.
Fade back in looking at the sidewalks where 3 cigarette butts have been tamped out.
Finally, the door opens and two electricians walk out. One is carrying rolls of electrical wire and the other is carrying a step ladder.
MarTY
Thanks Bud.
(He pushes past them and into the Civic Center)
As soon as he walks in a large man wearing coveralls walks past. He then circles back and quickly tries to put a burlap sack over Marty's head.
Marty whirls around and head butts the man in the nose and he crumples to the floor. Out cold.
MarTY
Not tonight suka, saw that on the A-Team!
He puts the burlap sack over the man's head and reaches into his pocket finding two large black zip ties. He ties his hands, and his legs and drags him over behind a large stack of meeting room chairs. It's over in 60 seconds.
Marty steps back and admires his work.
MARTY
Sink my damn boat, I don't think so.
Marty rolls his trash can out onto the main floor.
The race clock shows 11:54. Mack and Sam are racing through the night. The virtual race track sky has turned to night and the race stadium is illuminated by overhead lights like a football game on the video screens.
SaM
Hey man, I'm getting a text on my phone. Check it out.
Cut to image of the screen of a cell phone.
MaRTY
(Sends text message)
Meet me at the snack bar- birthday present!
FADE OUT.
INT. PensaCOLA CIVIC CENTER - nIGHT
FADE IN:
The race clock shows 12:15 and main floor was nearly empty. The hum of the servers and illumination from the arrays of processor racks provided some sound and lighting.
The race continues as the camera pulls back and pans the high windows in the Civic Center. The sky is lightening and more people are coming into the racing control center.
MarTY
Load it like you would any application, now, but It won't work until 6AM. You'll see it rock- trust me.
MaC
Gracias senor. Hope it works.
MarTY
Thanks, it'll work. It self-installs and is a no-brainer to you.
MaC
Thanks again. We'll be in touch.
No one saw the handoff of the thumb drive.
Mac walked back to the racing pod and opened his door, stepped in and sat the thumb drive on the dash.
MaC
Got it! Done.
SaM
Not done... upload it before we get hit by a comet or something.
Mac nods and inserts the thumb drive into the USB. The indicator light turns green for a few seconds, then red, indicating the data was transferred.
MaC
Marty said he tied some dude up in the back. He wanted us to check him when we left.
SaM
I don't have people... he's not our problem.
MaC
You're right, most people suck!
SaM
Expect nothing and you won't be disappointed I read.
MaC
Hey Socrates, keep your eyes on the track.
SaM
Copy that Maverick.
Pan to the back room as Marty leaves. He walks through the service area behind the main floor on his way out to the parking lot.
He looks behind the chairs and sees 2 cut zip ties and some blood spots. His potential abductor got loose.
Marty pushes his trash can out the door and loads it into his Van and drives off with an arm extended out the window flipping the Civic Center a bird.
FADE OUT.
INT. PENSACOLA CIVIC CENTER - niGHT
FADE IN:
Sam and Mac are in their seats focused intently on the race. There is no conversation and only the sound of the race can be heard- the cars, the noisy virtual crowd, and racing instructions coming over the network.
The Tesla is now running in 16th spot and Duke is running in 3rd.
The race continues as the camera pulls back and pans the high windows in the Civic Center. The sky is lightening and more people are coming into the racing control center.
The announcers run a play-by-play of the race- just like the TV broadcasts of the Indy 500 or the Daytona 500:
TV Personality
Now with only a little over one hour to go the 24-hour Race World Enduro comes down to this- which team has the stamina and endurance to make a late-race charge? For the leaders, the challenge is to hold off these desperate challengers in the final hour of the biggest virtual race of the year...
Tv PERSONALITY
At stake- over $500,000 in cash and the title of the best Virtual Race Car Driver on Earth.
Camera pans out of the broadcast booth and back onto the Civic Center floor with the increasing light level streaming into the Civic Center.
The Camera shows the streaming content, the race as the world is viewing and the top 5 teams are shown as an quick individual bio for each team.
FADE OUT.
INT. PenSACOLA CIVIC CENTER - niGHT
FADE IN:
TONY CAMPO, 20-year friend of Duke Ryder who is his co-driver in the Race Word series. His role is minor and not much information is revealed about Tony.
Pan into the driving pod as the camera shoots from the back displaying the 180 degree video screen and the race from the driver's perspective. The Tesla is in 11th place, as the race clock clicks in a flashing 6:00AM message.
MaC
It's game on Sam!
Their Tesla is running on the rear end of a Maclaren Super Car and was power maxed out at 5:59AM.
Sam pushes the accelerator and new-found performance is instantly revealed. The Tesla passes the Maclaren like it was standing still and begins to run down the next car in front of them, a Renault that is in 9th place. The Tesla catches up to the Renault within 30 seconds and drops down in the corner in an attempt to pass. The Renault drops down in front of them but Sam cuts high and blows by them. The Renault swings back and spins into the wall tearing the front end of the car off and sliding down into the infield.
The race continues under the green flag for a few minutes and restarts. They are now in 9th place. The race restarts and the Tesla continues to run down cars with ease.
Fade out and fade into the driving pod of Duke and Tony. Duke is driving and Tony is reading off standings to him.
Tony
We are in second place. There are 17 cars left in the race and the Tesla is in 9th.
DUKE
They've moved up to 9th?
TonY
8th, now and they've moved up 3 spots in 7 minutes.
Duke tightens his lips and shakes his head.
DUKE
That ain't good. I wonder if they figured it out?
ToNY
Figured out what?
DUKE
Figured out that I make my own luck. Keep your eyes on them while I run down the Andrews and their 'Rice Burner'… we need to make a move now.
Duke swings high on the track and steadily gains on the #1 car. They are running neck and neck on the turn. Once down from the bank Duke accelerates and passes the #1 car on the left. He is now in first place.
ToNY
They are in 7th, just passed The Geico Mercedes. I wonder if the Gecko is driving?
DUKE
I think the Camel has the wheel if Sam just passed them... dumbasses.
ToNY
Dumbasses that are gaining on us.
FADE OUT.
INT. PenSACOLA CIVIC CENTER - mORNING
FADE IN:
The video stream broadcast to the world was being narrated by the lead analyst as he sits in his virtual control room giving the play-by-play with the camera on him. The feed shoots back to the where the Tesla is being featured as it moves into 6th place.
TV PERSONALITY
The number 3 car, the Tesla Fairview Heights Team is on fire, not literally of course, but they are moving up fast. With only 35 minutes to go in this race they have moved into 6th place. Their car seems to be revving at 104% - a statistic that they have not matched until this point in the race.
TV Personality #2
They are playing a very delicate balance of time left versus disposable energy. It will be close if they run this hot through the end of the race. They have to parse the stored energy with the remaining time.
TV PERSONALITY
'Parse', wow, but we'll will keep an eye on them, but right now its the St. Louis Team that is blowing the doors off of this racing event in first place.
The streaming video cuts to Duke's Ferrari as it still leads the tightening pack.
TV PERSONALITY #2
Racers are closing the spread and waiting for the final 5 minutes to run at maximum output.
The race clock on the Tesla's console show T-9:00. Sam is grasping the steering wheel tightly and Mack is focused on the car's data stream coming across his visor.
Mac
We have 8:32 minutes left. Our numbers are solid and we should be able to finish at this 104% output. But I ain't going to lie, it's going to be close.
Sam passes the 5th place car to gain the spot.
MaC
That's 5th... get 'em.
SaM
Looks like Marty's virus-killer worked but I don't know if we have enough time to catch Duke.
MaC
Just drive, we have time. Don't think, just pass.
SaM
No sweat man, It's what I do! We are about done! Win or lose.
MaC
I vote 'win'- go for it Sam.
FADE OUT.
INT. PENSACOLA CIVIC CENTER - mORNING
FADE IN:
5 minutes is displayed on the race clock in the Civic Center control room. Pan back to the race as the Tesla moves into the 4th position.
SaM
Talk to me, we got the juice to win?
MaC
Just floor it Sam, who knows, it's all a crap shoot.
SAM
At least we won't wind up with a soap box racer on our head, it has been worse, much worse!
The Telsa passes a Ferrari and moves into the 3rd position.
MAC
Keep going, we are running out of time… we have 3 minutes, about two laps.
They moves into 2nd position never backing off the accelerator after grabbing 3rd place.
Mac
There he is, right there!
(pointing to Duke's car)
The Tesla blasts past a cluster of 3 cars they just lapped.
SaM
Two minutes, we gotta go now! That's all we got. Turn off the analytics and see if we pick up any rev.
Mack flips a couple switches and the Head's up visor goes dead.
SaM
We have less than a minute we are gaining.
Just then the Ferrari, Duke's car, starts to smoke.
MaC
Look, look, what's happening to them! What the...
SaM
Bizarre, gnarly!
Duke's car is beginning to pixelate on the video screen. Slowly at first, then back tires begin to dissolve and the rear end begins to smoke and drag on the pavement and then the tires simply pixelate off of the car as the car continues to electronically disintegrate. It begins to dig a trough into the pavement.
Mac
Pass him before the junk takes us out! He's coming unglued!
The Tesla passes the Ferrari as the Ferrari continues to disintegrate. Suddenly it has stopped as other cars race by. The Ferrari's front end rises off of the track and the rear end begins to sink slowly into the asphalt until all that remains is the front grille. Then a flag pole pops up and a flag raises that says 'I sunk your Battleship!'
Pan back to the announcers and the world video feed.
FADE OUT.
INT. PENSACOLA CIVIC CENTER - mORNING
FADE IN:
The two announcers are seated in front of the video sfeed from the virtual race.
TV PERSONALITY
And the Fairview Heights Tesla team takes the checkered flag and wins the Enduro. Car #16, the Mercedes from Geico comes in #2, and the #9 Car, the Honda Super Car from the Tokyo Team comes in third.
Tv PERSONALITY #2
We've never seen anything like that finish. Obviously they had a fatal error in their operational software- something went way wrong at the finish line but the judges have certified the finish. It's final.
TV PERSONALITY
To say the least, we saw action and excitement and humor. You don't see that at the Daytona 500. We had the chills, spills, wrecks and action and no one hurt and no wrecks to tow off!
Pan back as the racing pods begin to open and the support teams, fans and family stream in from the surrounding seats.
A red flashing light and an annoying air horn giving short blasts is sounding loudly over the Tesla racing pod as their doors open and they step out. Sam and Mac are surrounded by the fans and the racing officials.
Lucy steps out from the crowd and finds Sam. She grabs him and gives him a hug and a kiss on the cheek.
LUCY
Marty is such a screwball- that was pretty funny.
SaM
That was crazy, he certainly balanced things out! Thanks for hooking us up.
LUCY
No problem. Congrats Mac!
Mac
Thanks Luce and thanks for Marty!
Pan the audience milling around and the camera catches Duke and Tony walking away.
LUCY
Duke technically didn't even finish the race… That's awesome, but I'm sure I'll need a lift back home.
SaM
No problem but we are staying an extra day!
The race officials grab Sam and Mac and direct them to the stage where the 2nd and 3rd place team has assembled.
Fade back and the stage is in the distance. Two large cardboard cut-out sized checks are handed to Mac and Sam. Pictures are snapped and hands are shaken and the scene fades out.
FADE OUT.
EXT. Hyatt hotel - mORNING
FADE IN:
Sam and Mac are standing on the curb at valet parking area of the Pensacola Hyatt Hotel downtown.
SAM
A great idea to swap hotels. The Hyatt IS a lot nicer than Motel 6. And it free, thanks to Duke.
MaC
The hot tub was awesome. I could get used to that.
Sam
You can buy one for your Aunt.
MAC
Aunt, Schmant! I need one for me! I can! I will!
SaM
I don't know how you got them to deliver the Rambler, but I'm glad you were able to talk them into it.
Mac
Yeah, they'll pickup the bug and take it home too. All part of their service Tyrone said.
SAM
Where's Lucy, we're ready to roll as soon as the car gets here!
Mac
I'm glad Duke cut out. His suite worked out great, for us!
SaM
Sore loser. I have a few other words to describe him, but let's go with sore loser.
Mac
At least with this race we didn't have to go to the hospital like the other times. Pays to do virtual racing in more ways than one.
Sam
At least Lucy got to see the real Duke. She done with him. He flew commercial home and did not even speak to her.
Mac
So, you're a couple now?
Sam
Just a couple of friends. That's enough for now. We'll see… but her wanting a lift back home might be a good sign if we can not break down this time.
MaC
Oh, I'm pretty sure we'll be okay.
LuCY
What's a good sign?
(Lucy walks up from behind)
MaC
Hey Luce...
LUCY
What's a good sign.
SaM
Clear skies, should be a straight shot drive home!
Lucy rolls her eyes.
LUCY
Whatever...
Mac
Nothing's a straight shot in a '68 Rambler. Hey, here comes the truck!
A large red flat bed tow truck rolls into the front entrance to the hotel.
Sam stares at the flat bed and his newly customized car.
SaM
What the heck is that thing?
The truck driver extends the ramp and climbs up onto the platform and backs the car down. He starts it up and smoke is discharged through the new exposed exhaust side pipes. The car makes a hearty "thump thump thump" pounding to expose a new hot rod engine.
SaM
Tyrone did this? It musta' cost a fortune. Look at that paint and the wheels.
MaC
Don't sweat it, I got ya.
SaM
Ahh hah! This is why he liked you so much, Tyrone that is.
MaC
You got me pal. As you know, Money talks and blah, blah, blah.
SaM
How'd you know we'd win?
MaC
I didn't. We could be driving that VW home.
SaM
Some of that Montgomery mojo must have rubbed off on you then!
Sam takes the key from the driver and Mac signs paperwork. Lucy walks around the car running her hands across the new paint.
Sam opens the drivers door and steps in and sits in the driver's seat.
SaM
What does this button...
He pushes the button and the right front end of the car jumps up 12 inches. He pushes it again and the left side pops up. Pushes it again and the rear pops up displaying the hydraulics the car has had added to it.
SaM
Gotta make sure not to do that in traffic. Stereo? Oh yeah... Subwoofer too... check, check, check!
(Stereo cranks up)
LUCY
Yeah, no jumping on the Interstate doing 70 mph! For sure... amazing.
Sam steps out and opens the hood. A new engine and suspension system has replaced the old Rambler engine and it's clear a complete miracle has occurred.
SaM
Let's roll! Fast car, bag of money and a pretty girl!
He points to Lucy who smiles.
Mack and Lucy throw their bags and suitcases into the rear of the station wagon and buckle in for the ride.
LUCY
That's funny! My Dad always wanted a pretty girl, a fast car and a bag of money for his birthday! No wonder my Mom moved out.
SaM
We have to swing by Marty's new place! We have a bag of money for him, literally.
MAC
No. Really we have a bag of money!
Mac produces an over-stuffed McDonald's Restaurant bag from his Gym Bag and shows Lucy.
LUCY
You know Marty made some bucks off of you, don't you?
MaC
$5,000 does not make him exactly rich.
LUCY
No, Vegas had the odds of you winning at 25:1. So, he figured out if he put $10,000 on you guys, and if you won, he could make $250,000.
SaM
That son of a...
MaC
Man he really wanted to beat Duke, but he must have really believed in his programming- that's nuts.
Sam looks at Mac and Mac shakes his head.
Mac
Where'd he get $10,000? He was living on a floating single-wide.
LUCY
That's partially how he got it, he's cheap as dirt. And his brother has money. I'll bet his brother made even more! Really he bet on his programming.
Mac
He's got peoples! Bookie Peoples!
LUCY
Duke lost $25,000 too, but deserves it. He bet on himself!
Everyone laughs and the camera zooms out to the sound of very loud Jimmy Buffet music and the roar of the new engine. The car drives across the same bridge that they came in on. Fade to drone shot of the car exiting the Pensacola area.
SaM
Wait, we have to get off here- Marty's apartment is on the right.
MAC
There he is. Let's pay the sucka'
(pointing to a man in the distance)
The camera fades back out of the car to show Marty standing by the road. The car slows down to about 20 MPH but does not stop. They throw the bag of money out the window to him and it hits him squarely in the chest and rips open spilling dollar bills into the wind.
The movie ends as dollar bills get swept up by the wind and float skywards as the Purple Hot Rod Rambler floors the gas pedal and speeds away as Lucy, Mac and Sam do a group high five in the car!
FADE TO BLACK.
By Michael Prongue
From: United States
Twitter: vertiguy