Above the Dead...Season 1, Episode 1 "Family"A Screenplay by Mike Decker Above The Dead is a Walking Dead spin-off. Different characters but same universe, world and problem... An absolute emotional mess, and a total suspense/thriller... The writer views it as a TV series. ABOVE THE DEADSynopsis Above the Dead is a Walking Dead spin-off. Different
characters but same universe, world, and problem... An absolute emotional mess, and a total
suspense/thriller... FYI...the term "zombies" is used in the beginning,
for explanatory reasons, but not by the characters, as the term does not exist
in their world/universe. Eventually, those characters will create their own
term, known as "huffs". Care to know what it stands for? Read and
find out! abovethedead.com Season 1 is brutal! But the character development it
creates, is something that will carry into the seasons to come, in which this
family has the resources to do something that most people cannot. They work to
rebuild large sections of Oregon, and eventually Washington, even creating
“dead free” zones along stretches of the coastline… With both wealth and wisdom working toward their survival
in the upcoming apocalyptic world, this family is fortunate to have a head
start. Preparing most of his life for such an apocalypse, Sam Baker raised his
family to prepare, as well, while still raising them with a ton of heart, and
emotion. With their support, he has a compound constructed, and adding on to it
over the years, was a family tradition… Once the dead begin attacking the living, the family find
themselves desperate to gather at said compound. With chaos taking over, most
of the family is already secure, but where this story finds us, is with Sam's
son, Fish, and granddaughter, Samantha. They are stuck in the mountains, trying
to wait out the storm, before making their way home, to the compound… It's not where they want to be, but with this fairly
secluded property, next to a lake and a huge 3-tree, tree house, that has
running water and an outhouse, things could be worse. Fish and his little girl,
find the tree house much safer than the cabin, and for at least the beginning
of this "zombie" apocalypse, they find themselves dependent on it… Surviving, above the dead, is something young Samantha
begins to believe may become the way of the future. As creative as her
grandfather, she begins envisioning how such a thing would be plausible. She
dreams of reaching her family to share these visions, and she does so while
leaving the mountain, through the gorge, kayaking the Columbia River, past
Multnomah Falls, and into the coast range... What will they find, once reaching the family they
haven't seen, since before the world and its rules went to hell? Will they be
the same people we get to know through flashbacks, before meeting them in the
present world? Will Samantha see her visions come to life? The compound
certainly has the resources and manpower for it… By the third season, with a group surviving at the
barricaded Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton, another group behind the walls
built by a team of loggers, and one more in the hills of the coast, the Bakers
will have themselves some neighbors, as they all coexist in what becomes known
as, Forest Grover…
The material is endless, so sit back and prepare for a hell of a
ride, with a family that takes its greatness from the past world, into the new
one… ABOVE THE DEAD .com Written by Mike Decker https://www.facebook.com/MikeDecker74 abovethedead.com Season 1, Episode 1 (62 pages) "Family" INTRO BLACK... "Bad Moon
Rising" Instrumental playing in background. ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4YlTUDnsWMo ) FADE IN: EXT. ROCKAWAY BEACH -
DAY POV (point of view) of
the Twin Rocks in the ocean, panning back through the waves, (music dimming) to
sound of kids/teenagers having a great time, and finding them on the beach (on
what looks like a sand-built baseball/wiffleball diamond). Half of them
defeated, while the other half celebrate the victory, as their dad rounds them
up. Scene dissolving (with music fading away) to Hunter (19), Leo (18), Mason (16), Vincent (14), Fish (12), and Scout (10), all taking a knee near the ocean, in front of their father (Sam, 40) and mother (Laura, 43), arm and arm. Fish stares out toward the ocean, as others all look to their parents. Sam notices, and smiles. SAM Eyes on me, Fish. (Fish turning toward him) All I ever dreamed of as a kid, was to make it through life by creating, and I’ve done that. I also dreamt of having the most loving, beautiful family a man could dream of, and, here you all are, celebrating our country's birthday, and (holding his wife tighter) our nineteen wonderful years of marriage. (giving her a kiss, with applause from the kids) Now, I'm dreaming again, been dreaming, told you my dream. The compound (excitement growing)… It's officially happening! Kids all cheering and
high-fiving... SCOUT Does this mean the apo, apoco... FISH (finishing her word) Apocalypse. SCOUT What he said. Is it happening? (laughs from others) SAM No honey, no apocalypse, not yet. It'll hopefully never happen in our lifetime, but when it does, whatever generation of our family is here for it, will survive it, at this compound. And let me tell you, this doesn't happen without all of you. We'll be selling our home someday, to help make this happen, and contributions from the entire family is what it'll take in the end, to get it done… And it’ll be tough. We’ll be in debt for at least a decade, maybe two. FISH In debt? SAM (nodding) We’ll be borrowing money like never before. We’ll get those walls up, eventually, and as much essentials as possible, but we’ll have some work to do, making that money back, before it’ll be fully apocalyptic-ready. (with a chuckle) But I’ve got a plan. LEO So, you’re saying the world needs to keep ticking for at least another forty or fifty years? Some laughs, before
Scout pouts her worries… SCOUT But…I love our home! SAM Don't worry sweetheart, you'll be all grown up before we sell, and the compound will have homes for us all... SCOUT Good, I don't want to be a kid when the world ends! Some laughs. SAM End of the world or not, this compound will be home for your mother and I, along with any of you, as well as friends and investors, who choose to settle down, or vacation there. Our own little community... LEO How's it happen, Dad? Whether in our lifetime or the next, how does it all go down? Sam looks at his wife. SAM I'm sharing my dreams with these kids, and all they want is terror and destruction. LEO Answer the question, old man! SAM Title wave! With a look behind him,
and playfully grabbing Scout, as if running from a wave. She laughs as they all
head up the beach… LEO Seriously, Dad. How's it happen??? MASON Terrorism. VINCENT War. LEO Same thing, really. I say disease, or fire. SCOUT Earthquake! HUNTER Population. (Sam nodding with his lip out) FISH Something totally unexpected... Everyone looking at him
(same song (Bad Moon Rising) plays from beginning), as POV pans out toward
ocean, (captions appearing) dissolving from ocean water, to swimming pool
water... CAPTIONS: 30 years later EXT. BACKYARD SWIMMING
POOL - DAY Lyrics to “Bad Moon
Rising” begin (blasting from radio near pool) with POV coming from a
"Zombie" (sound of it grunting), approaching pool where two teenage
girls lay on floating devices (eyes closed)... MUSIC "I see earthquakes
and lightin'" Zombie arrives at side
of pool, just out of reach of the girls. MUSIC "I see bad times
today" Zombie falls into water
causing girls to fall in, quickly coming up in mild shock (music instrumental)
and looking around, coming to realize someone else in the water. GIRL 1 Oh my God! Who is that!? GIRL 2 Why isn't he coming up? (zombie slowly struggling toward surface) He...must be drunk! GIRL 1 Help him! GIRL 2 You! Girl 1 diving under (as
music lyrics begin again "Don't go around tonight"), reaching for
"person" and pulling toward the surface. MUSIC "Well, it's bound
to take your life" Girl 1 reaching surface
with a scream and blood, as zombie tears into her neck. Girl 2 screaming and
exiting pool (knocking over and shutting off radio/background song), dashing
toward the house. CUT TO: INT. 911 DISPATCHERS -
DAY People busy with mass
commotion everywhere. DISPATCHER 1 911, please hold. 911, please hold. 911, please hold. DISPATCHER 2 But, sir, that doesn't make any sense. CUT TO: INT. HOSPITAL HALLWAY -
DAY A nurse zipping out of a
room screaming, followed by a dead patient creeping into the hallway. A doctor
and male nurse go to "restrain" him, resulting in being bitten,
causing all bystanders to run away. CUT TO: EXT. CITY STREET/ALLEY -
DAY A zombie leaving an alley,
into the street, instantly nailed by a car. Man gets out (wife inside). Zombie
slowly rising. MAN (rushing toward him) How are you even able to get up?! Zombie biting him, wife
inside car screaming as people on the street run or look on in shock. One guy
even runs in to help at first, before backing away... CUT TO: EXT. BENCH EMPLOYEE REST
AREA - DAY Woman on phone, eyeing
approaching zombie. WOMAN (into phone) Okay, creepy tweaker walking by. Where are my coworkers when I need em'? (coming right at her) Okay...BABE, HE'S COMING RIGHT FOR ME! Screaming as zombie
tears into her flesh… CUT TO: EXT. LIVING ROOM - DAY Man in shock, on phone. MAN Veronica?! Baby!?! Man flinches, after two
cars collide outside his window. CUT TO: EXT. SAME CITY STREET/ALLEY
(where car hit zombie) - DAY Several men in street,
beating on zombie who won't go down, as man who ran him over lies dead, with
sound of wife in car, still screaming... CUT TO: EXT. BASEBALL FIELD/
SCHOOL YARD - DAY Kid swinging/knocking
ball (tennis ball) down left field line, where outfielder boy (12 or 13) chases
it, coming to a stop and watching it roll to creepy "man", groaning
and approaching. BOY (pointing) What is wrong with this guy? Boy flinching, as a
squad car comes to a screeching stop from street. Cops getting out aiming guns.
Kids running to a safe distance and watching. COP 1 Its head, aim for its head! Kids watching as several
shots are fired before taking it down. BOY (to others) It? COP 2 (shouting at kids) Hey, get home, lock your doors, and stay inside! CUT TO: EXT. SAME CITY
STREET/ALLEY (where car hit zombie) - DAY Men in street, (zombie dead)
in shock. MAN 1 What the hell is going on?! What kind of God damn sense does this make?! The dead man who hit
zombie, suddenly rises/grunting, as men all freak out and run off. Wife again
screaming in car, as her dead husband turns toward her... CUT TO: EXT. HOUSE/PORCH - DAY Same boy from baseball
field, running up his porch, rushing through door, locking it and quickly
turning, as Mom is heard swearing from kitchen. Boy enters kitchen. Mom
holding towel around her hand. BOY What's wrong, momma? MOM Got bit by some damn homeless guy. Boy just staring at the
injury... CUT TO: EXT. STREET - DUSK Squad car speeding down
street (sirens blaring) forcing other cars to halt, one is too late as squad
car nails it, recovers and continues speeding down street. CUT TO: EXT. NEIGHBORHOOD
HOME/STREET CORNER - DUSK Two teens, playing
basketball in street. Few smaller kids in yard across the street playing, as
mom comes rushing out. MOM Inside, now! KIDS (mom already rushing toward them) Just a second, mom. Mom grabbing the first,
forcefully pulling him toward house, with others shocked and following, while
the basketball teens just watch. MOM I said inside, RIGHT NOW! A car nails one of
teens, slamming on breaks. Mom looks, but continues inside with her children. CUT TO: EXT. HOMES AND
BUSINESSES - DUSK Several shots of
families/business owners locking their doors and closing up shop, in a hurry... CUT TO: INT. HOME - DUSK Family in a panic, as
they point and move, to look outside, where a zombie walks the bare street,
eventually hearing their panicked behavior from inside. He turns to face and
approach them. GIRL He's looking at us! CUT TO: INT. GROCERY STORE - DUSK People everywhere taking
food. A few scared employees hiding. One employee begins taking food.
EXT. PARK - DUSK Teens circling around a
zombie, careful not to let it get too close, as officers hurry to climb out of their
squad car. TEEN 1 It's just like that guy on the internet! TEEN 2 (beginning to bolt) He must be contagious! Everyone splitting,
including officers who holster their guns, climb back in car, and skid away. CUT TO: INT. HOME - NIGHT Same boy from baseball
field, staring outside his bedroom window (upstairs), with a tear, and dropping
baseball from his hand, onto the floor with a thud... He turns toward a sound in
the hall. In creeps his grunting Mom. BOY Momma? (boy backing up, in front of window) Momma?! (zombie right on top of him) MOMMA! Zombie biting and
(accidentally) falling right on top of him, forcing them both through window,
all the way down onto front lawn. Boy appears dead/unconscious, as zombie mom
begins feasting on him, causing him to scream out, as he was still alive, but
not for long... CUT TO: INT. HOME - NIGHT Family in the dark,
huddling around a radio. RADIO THE DEAD ARE WALKING THE STREETS!!! They all share wide-eyed
looks…
EXT. PORCH - NIGHT Commotion everywhere,
while man on porch is firing his shotgun outward... POV moves quickly up the
street, where another man drunkenly comes out onto his porch, struggling to
hold up his shotgun, and aiming at scared people who rush by his home… RANDOM BOY Please don’t shoot me! CUT TO: EXT. DOWNTOWN - NIGHT People running all
directions... Two women forced out of a
bar, looking around, not sure what is going on, but moving quickly. They stop
in front of a zombie on his knees, eating a dead person. The women scream, turn,
and bolt! CUT TO: INT. HOME - NIGHT Cartoons playing on TV,
as power goes out, and little boy and girl complain (as if the world isn't
ending). Mom (scared to death) comes in trying to act brave, and holding them
on the couch for several moments, before they all scream at sound of their
windows being busted. CUT TO: EXT. MALL PARKING LOT -
NIGHT Man, with gun aimed at a
family, closing car door (their car) and driving off, leaving them there.
Father quickly guides family out of parking lot, through all the commotion
(burning house down the road), and to an apartment complex. They duck behind a
dumpster, and watch as several men with guns, run and open fire on a zombie,
who's biting someone. Father notices a dark room, runs to door, and signals
family over. He bashes in door, looks up at a man (whose family is behind him),
holding shotgun straight down at him, blowing his head off, with dead man's
family standing shocked, in background. CUT TO: INT. POLICE STATION -
NIGHT A few cops packing up
guns and supplies, as one argues with them. GOOD COP This is crazy, there are people out there who need our help! BAD COP Are you kidding me? It's every man for himself out there, and if we have any chance at all, it's to pack up, gather our families, and head to the mountains! DISSOLVE TO: THEME TUNE/CREDITS Shots of all the chaos
in the city, on day 1 of the “zombie” apocalypse, as opening credits roll… DISSOLVE TO: EXT. MOUNTAINS - LATE
MORNING CAPTIONS: Earlier that
day Calmness with shot of a beautiful lake, cabin and tree house... Vehicle comes down road,
parking in driveway. A little girl (Samantha (Sam) 10) and her dog Merry, jump
out, exploring the area, as dad (Fish) gets out with a stretch, followed with a
wave over toward the lake, where an elderly couple make their way along the
trail. FISH Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Pederson. Couple waving/smiling
back. Dissolve to Merry
barking upward, as above, Sam runs from one tree house to another. (3 trees/tree
houses all connected by walkways, a deck and one (pull-up) ladder) SAM I LOVE this tree house! POV Fish talking with
the Pedersons. FISH We're up here for my brother's birthday. He and his boys will be here either this afternoon, or evening. POV Sam climbing down,
running toward the lake, chased by Merry. SAM Dad, let's go swimming! Dissolve to Sam running
and jumping off dock, into water, where Fish waits for her, picking her back up
and tossing her again into the water, with a laugh. Dissolve to Fish
swinging high in the air, from rope swing and splashing into water, where Sam
waits for him to come up, before jumping/climbing on top of him. Dissolve to a boat
zipping through lake. Fish at wheel. Sam behind on floaty, being pulled as she
holds on for dear life, all while laughing and having the time of her life. DISSOLVE TO: EXT. BOAT/LAKE - DUSK Fish, Sam, and Merry in
boat, fishing. SAM Did you tell Mom and Mom yet? FISH (Proudly) You bet I did. SAM Is that why you left the phones in the trunk? FISH You bet I did! (Sam laughing) Nah, you know I did that for the same reason we don't have a TV here. To get away from everything. SAM I know, I know... Just tell them I pressured you. FISH (shaking head) Used that one last time. SAM (with laugh) Why does it make you so nervous? FISH Because having to tell your child's mom you let her play hooky from school, would give any father anxiety, let alone having two mothers, to share such wonderful news with. Sam laughs as Fish hooks
a fish, and begins reeling in. SAM Okay, I've lost count. I'd say we have enough now. FISH Agreed. Let's get these babies cleaned and ready for your uncle and the boys. Dissolve to Fish walking
on the dock, toward the boat garage, hanging up his phone and placing in
pocket. Sam comes out of the boat garage, holding the bucket of fish, and
walking with her dad back the other direction. FISH Ready to clean? SAM Ready. Did you talk to Mom? FISH (nodding) I just told her how important this trip is for your uncle. Following your aunt’s dream, out of the country, was the hardest thing he’s ever had to do. He misses home. I miss having him here. SAM Did you say it just like that? FISH I believe I did. SAM Then I think we're good. CUT TO: EXT. KITCHEN - DUSK Fish inside shutting off
faucet, drying hands and reaching for his vibrating phone, as Sam enters with a
curious expression. FISH I knew I should have put this back in the trunk. Fish looks at text. POV text reading “666!” Fish instantly shocked. FISH This can't be. SAM What? FISH (dialing) Triple sixes! SAM (confused) But, I thought... FISH Damn, wish I had that TV, now! (talking on phone) Dad?! Please tell me this is some stupid drill! Leo can be heard in the
background, complaining about money that was spent making the compound an
attraction, rather than a place of survival, and sarcastically mocking his
father, about how there will be plenty of time to purchase a long-range radio.
Someone else could be heard shouting back at Leo, about how the family was
broke over simply building the walls, he’s now hiding behind… Fish works hard to hear
his father speaking, to him. FISH (into phone) Yes...okay what do you mean he was bit? Dad? DAD!!! GRANDPA (over phone) How have you not heard anything?! Sam frightened, and
following Fish as he paces the cabin. FISH I'm at the lake. I’m always off the grid, up here. What is happening?! SAM Daddy, what is it? FISH Just a minute, baby. (to Grandpa) Yes, I'll be coming straight there. But first, tell me everything, and what happened to the helicopter?! Merry outside barking,
as Sam gingerly makes her way to the window. Arrives and nervously looks around
outside, seeing nothing unusual, as Merry continues barking. Sam makes her way
to door, slowly creeping open, as Merry runs off into the brush. SAM MERRY! FISH (off-screen (OS)) SAM! POV Fish angrily looking
at his phone, which appears not to be working. FISH You gotta’ be shitting me! (Sam entering room) SAM What's going on? Merry ran off. Are Mom and Mom okay? Fish hugging her... FISH They're already at the compound, safe and sound. Most of the family is there. Your cousin Miles, is not well. (Sam coming out of hug) He was bitten by someone sick, or infected, and may be that way himself, now. SAM (with emotion) What does that mean? FISH I don't exactly know, Sam. Something to do with how many people have been getting sick, maybe. But that's why we have to get packed up and ready to go, the moment your uncle gets here. SAM What about the helicopter? FISH Apparently, it's been stolen. Sam just staring at him,
in shock… Fish zoning a moment… FISH I can’t believe it’s actually happening. There’s still so much he hasn’t done, yet. (shaking his head) He wasn’t ready for this… Sam with tears, as she
stares at him… SAM Dad… CUT TO: Fish boxing up canned
foods, flashlights, and other supplies, that they appear to have plenty of. Cut to Fish opening
trunk, placing boxes inside, as does Sam. Cut to Fish back inside
packing a few guns and ammo, into duffle bag. Cut to Fish closing
trunk and looking around. SAM That's everything? FISH Yeah, just waiting on your uncle now. SAM The phone still not working? (Fish shaking head) Flashlight suddenly
hitting them, as they quickly turn to face approaching person. Now Merry comes
running to Sam, who hugs her. Guy (Scott, 45) arrives with flashlight. FISH That you, Scott? SCOTT Yeah. (shaking Fish's hand) Hey Fish. You guys don't happen to know anything more than I do, on whatever the hell seems to be going on, do ya? FISH What exactly do you know? SCOTT Not enough. My daughter was telling me they were having trouble getting up the mountain, due to traffic and accidents, before she must have entered an out-of-service area, we got cut off. But the crazy part is...(pausing as he looks down at Sam) FISH She can handle it. SCOTT Last thing I heard on the radio, was a warning of...the dead walking and attacking the living. Sam shuddering… FISH (holding Sam close) I heard the infected, now they're saying the dead? Infected has to make more sense, doesn't it? SCOTT (shaking head) Sense doesn't seem to have anything to do with anything, right now. What else do you
know? FISH My nephew is probably dying (Fish a look to Sam who's frightened hearing that), due to a bite from whatever these...things are. My dad had more to tell me, but the phones shutoff. Scott simply turning and
heading back toward his cabin. SCOTT Well, I'm off to find my daughter... FISH Good luck. SAM Good luck, Scott. DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK (about 4 months ago) EXT. CABIN PORCH �" DUSK Scout (with arms around
Sam, in her lap), her daughters Hope (18) and Ryder (17), son Bryant (15),
Vincent, his boys Greg (20) and Mark (18), all present, along with Merry, as
Fish comes out door, joining them on the porch, lounging around. RYDER (laughing) I know, like Grandpa almost wants it to happen. HOPE No, I think it's Uncle Leo who wants it to happen. FISH Wants what to happen? SAM Dad, you think sometimes, Grandpa maybe wants the apoco...apocalypse to happen? SCOUT (with laugh and a squeeze of Sam) I always had trouble with that one, too, Hun. FISH Nah, least I don't think so, hope not. No, actually I know he doesn't, he loves his family too much. If every family took care of their own, like he did us, then just imagine how much better this world would be...it simply wouldn't require paranoid grandfathers with talk of the apocalypse, and surviving an uncivilized world. (some laughs) SAM I'm still glad he built the compound, it's neat. I love the tree houses! GREG You know, Fish, as much as Samantha has talked about a tree house, I find myself looking over at those trees right there, thinking what a perfect place for some of the creative ideas I've heard her bring up.
SAM DAD, CAN WE?! FISH Could be a fun family project. SCOUT Hey, let's have the family reunion up here this summer, and knock it all out in one day. Everyone acting in
agreement and with excitement. Sam thrilled to death. DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT
TIME EXT. CABIN PORCH - NIGHT Sam (teary eyed face),
Fish and Merry on porch, waiting for Vincent. SAM It's happening...we should be there. FISH We will be. Sam losing it
emotionally. SAM (crying out) I want mom. (Fish quick to pull her in tight) FISH I know, Sammers... (as she cries) I know. SAM And Grandpa, we should be with Grandpa. FISH Hey, hey, we're going to get there. I promise you that. If this world is changing or starting over, it's not doing so without you. The way you think, or the way you dream. Nope, the world isn't even gonna’ try to survive this thing, without you in it. Just not happening. It'll need creativity, and you have that, in a way I only dreamed of having it. Which is why I'm sticking close to you, cause I wanna’ survive this thing, too! (trying to get a laugh out of her) SAM Are you worried about Miles? Do you really think he's going to die? FISH I'm worried sick. I'm afraid we have to prepare for the worst. Your uncle Hunter is going to need us to be strong for him... Fish a look at her, then
one toward the door. FISH I just realized you haven't eaten. (rising, guiding her with him) Let’s grill some cheese while we have a chance. SAM Worried it's the last meal we'll have? FISH Nope, just the last before we hit the road, and get exactly where you wanna’ be. (closing door) CUT TO: INT. KITCHEN - NIGHT Flipping several
sandwiches on the grill, with several more on a plate next to Sam, who's
already finishing one off, and reaching for another. Fish scarfing down the one
in his hand. SAM You really do think it's our last meal, don't you?! FISH Just hooking your uncle and the boys up, they'll need some fast food. Sam finally smiles... DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK
(no more than a year ago) INT. THEIR KITCHEN IN
THE CITY - DAY Sam a big smile, as Dad
flips grilled cheese sandwiches over the stove. SAM I can't wait to see Grandpa. (taking big bite) FISH I happen to know he feels the same way about you. I also happen to know you're absolutely his favorite grandchild who's named after him. SAM And I happen to know I’m the only grandchild named after him, and it has nothing to do with why I’m his favorite. FISH Well, I certainly know why he's your favorite, and more important to you than your own dad (Sam laughing), and it has (being sarcastic) nothing whatsoever to do with that cool compound
of his, with tree houses at every corner, secret underground tunnels, and its own candy shop! No, not at all! More laughing, as Fish
puts last two sandwiches on plate and sits to eat. SAM Dad? FISH Yeah? SAM Why does Grandpa live there? I mean, it's where we all go if there's ever an earthquake or something bad happens, but... FISH Okay, stop right there, I know where you're going with this, and no, we aren't moving to the compound. SAM But why does he? FISH Because that's his dream sweetheart. His childhood dream, and went broke to make it happen. Everything he loves is there, and the security it gives him to know we can go there in case of an emergency, is what helps him sleep at night...what makes him happy. SAM And if not us, then my kids or their kids, or my great-grandkids, can go there, right? FISH Oh, you've got great-grandkids now, do you? Sam laughing… DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT
TIME INT. CABIN KITCHEN -
NIGHT Sam and Fish reacting as
car lights appear. FISH Finally. SAM Uncle Vincent! Cut to the porch, with Fish
out door, instantly disappointed, as is Sam right behind him, where he puts his
hand down to keep her shielded. Merry barking some. Guy slowly gets out of
driver’s side. Wife in front seat, along with kids in back seat, staying
completely put. FISH What can I do for you folks? MAN We...we're about to run out of gas, and...do you know what's going on, out there? Fish looking from him to
his family, who remain quiet, almost in shock and with leftover tears. Fish
keeping Sam behind him. FISH I've been hearing a lot. Would love to hear what you know? I know the infected, or possibly even the dead, are biting people and making them sick. I sure as hell hope that sounds as crazy to you as it does to me, just saying it? If not, then I'm pretty nervous to hear what you got. Man shaking his head,
coming in closer. Sam nervous... MAN They aren't just biting… Man looking from Fish to
Sam, not sure if he should go on… FISH Sam, tie Merry up. Can't have her running off again. Stay with her, I'll meet you over there. SAM Dad. FISH Please, Sam.
MAN We were talking to a bunch of people in town, about what's going on, and what some of them had seen or heard. The stories were all over the place…completely surreal. Man looking to Sam, over
at porch latching Merry to her leash, then back at Fish. MAN But then, there was screaming. Once we went to see what was happening... (shaking head) it wasn't real, but it was. He wasn't just biting her, he was...eating her, (Fish shocked) all of her. FISH What do you mean, eating her? MAN It, he, was on its knees, ripping the flesh right off that poor, already dead, woman's body. (Fish looking sick) Once it saw other people, it went after them. It was a real-life haunted house, come to life...and if I had to guess, I'd say that thing was dead, but it wasn't... Man, simply staring off
as he pictures it... FISH (speechless a moment) Are you sure you saw what you think you saw? MAN Fella, look at my family. Do they look like they just got back from Disneyland? Fish looking at the
family, and seeing the horrific truth in their faces. He slowly walks to rear
of his car, opening trunk. Man looks questionably at him. Fish pulls out a can
of gas, walking it over to the man, handing it to him without a word. MAN Thank you! Thank you! Man loading gas into his
car, as Fish slowly walks over toward Sam. Reaching her, just looking at her
without a word. She becomes frightened. SAM What, Dad!? FISH It's nothing... Fish turning to watch
man close car door and back out, driving off. Fish now walking around side of
cabin. SAM Dad? DAD? Fish simply putting his
hand up, signaling her to stay. He tries to get out of her sight but fails,
before losing his stomach, vomiting his grilled cheese. SAM (crying) Daddy?! Fish trying to
recover...staring straight ahead and seeing life moments flashing in front of
him. Flashes of Sam
smiling/laughing. Himself (at her age) smiling/laughing with Scout. He and his
brothers dropping to a knee, on the beach in front of their father. Sam being
born. Sam playing with her two moms. Sam hugging Grandpa. Himself at her age,
hugging Grandpa. The family working together building a tree house. The family
together following Grandpa into the compound. Sam in awe. He and Sam in the
boat, on the lake fishing. Sam smiling. He and his brothers dropping to one
knee on the beach. Himself saying, "Something totally unexpected"... Back to Fish trying to
recover, as face goes pale, spinning and down to his knees. SAM (screaming and running to him) DAD! Fish taking big breaths trying
to avoid fainting, as Sam arrives throwing her arms around him, as he does his
best to hug her back and keep from passing out. Fish recovering… FISH I'm okay, I'm okay. SAM What did he do? What did he say? Fish simply hugging her
tightly. Then pulls back and simply stares at her... INT: LIVING ROOM - NIGHT Fish laying knife on
counter, followed by Sam placing down a pistol next to a blade. FISH It's a crash course, but that's everything I can teach you to do, with those weapons. I don't know just how hard it's going to get, once we begin traveling, but I can't have you helpless, if something goes down. Once this whole thing ends, hopefully sooner than later, you're going to forget everything I just taught you, until you're at least fifteen, sixteen. SAM (staring at the gun) I need to shoot it. If I have to use it, I'll be too nervous, if I haven't tried it first. FISH I know, Sam, but we can't spook people, and/or draw attention to ourselves. SAM Do I get to carry one, once we leave? FISH (not sure what to say) I...haven't thought much about the details. I guess I just wanted to start the process. (looking right at her) I'm sorry you had to grow up all at once, today. (hesitating to go on) Unfortunately, I have more great news. With Uncle Vincent obviously stuck on the road somewhere, we're going to have to hunker down here for at least the night. Whatever is going on out there, we're going to face it with some daylight. SAM I'm okay with that. FISH Good. (nodding her over) Come here, I need to finish telling you why I just made you a ninja. Sam a halfhearted,
accomplishing smile while following him onto the sofa. SAM You mean, why you went hypochondriac on me? FISH You are so your mother. (Sam smiling then quickly frowning, leading Fish to do the same) I'm going to get you to her. (looking down) But first, I have to tell my ten-year-old something harder to tell, than what I just had to show you. SAM Please just spill it. FISH (shaking his head) He and his family witnessed...(more shaking) POV cuts outside, to
them through window, with Merry (tied up) laying at porch steps. Sam shaking
head some, some tears, some shock, then nodding head, and eventually hugging
her dad. CUT TO: EXT. TREE HOUSE - NIGHT Merry now lying at base
of tree. Sam in tree house (lanterns providing light) making her bed (mattress
on wooden frame), quickly taking a peek out window (window cracked open), where
Fish is below (cabin lights and porch lights all on) approaching with more
items. Sam now organizing her stuffed animals in her own perfect way, until
Fish enters. FISH (taking notice of animals) For such a tomboy, you sure do love your imaginary friends there, don't ya? (placing down box of food) SAM I have to be a girl at something, don't I? (Fish a laugh) And they're not imaginary, or you wouldn't see them. FISH (making his bed area) I was referring to the voices you provide them. SAM Dad? FISH Daughter? SAM Were you ever in love with mom, my real mom? FISH I have always loved both your moms, very much. But when it comes to being in love, well, those two were busy feeling that way about each other. SAM So...how come my birth mom had me, and not my other mom? FISH (shaking head) Okay, I know I told and taught you some things tonight, that no 10-year-old has any business knowing, but apocalypse or not, you're too young for this conversation! SAM 10 and a half. FISH And even if you were old enough, it's the type of conversation a girl has with her mother, in which case you have two of! Sam a half smile, fading
quickly as Fish goes to grab another box of items outside of the room. SAM Dad? FISH Yeah? SAM Do you think I'll ever get to fall in love? Or have kids? Fish closing his eyes
and dropping head a moment, before reentering. FISH Sweetheart, I didn't teach you just now to use a gun, simply to survive another day. If falling in love or having kids, isn't in your future, then what are we fighting for? Sam in thought while
staring out window... SAM It doesn't look like the end of the world, out there. FISH Come on baby girl, lay down, get some rest. (helping her under the blankets) I'm gonna’ hit the outhouse, but will be right back. (giving her a kiss) CUT TO: Fish walking outside the
bedroom, toward one of the other 2 rooms (outhouse). Becoming distraught as he
enters, shutting door and closing eyes, with head against wall, before pulling
away and looking upward. FISH (to God quietly/emotionally) You damn well better not make a liar of me... (thinking) And if this is the end, then what in the hell kind of apocalypse is this...(confused emotions) people eating people??? (shaking head) Give me earthquakes, tsunamis or giant rocks falling from the sky, just make it quick and painless, cause (little more emotion) if you're keeping me around another day or two, just to torment me with the memories and images of my baby girl (more emotion) smiling and full of happiness, simply to see her world come (extreme emotion) crumbling apart, then (almost yelling but keeping it hushed) what the hell kind of God are you!? DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK
(about 10 years ago) INT. LIVING ROOM - DAY
(Christmas decorations) Sam (wearing bib, about
1), smiling/laughing in highchair, watching the TV with extreme delight, as
Fish smiles down at her, before pausing the video (causing some fuss from her),
and spoon-feeding her. FISH I know, I know, I pushed pause and now your world is crumbling apart, but it's the only way I can get you to eat. Resuming video as she
resumes her delight, with half her food coming back out. POV TV (edited video
with music, as if it were World Series highlights), of Fish/family (from 2
years ago) playing wiffleball (very competitively) on beach. FISH (with smile) Well, I guess that's enough grub for now, but um, how bout' a nap? Sam's face going red,
with a grunt, as she fills her diaper, with Fish moaning. FISH I said a NAP! CUT TO: (video still playing)
Fish just finishing with diaper, from floor as Sam gets up, instantly running
over in front of sofa, staring at TV, as Fish follows her there, lifting her up
onto couch, where she looks ready to take that nap, while watching video. Dissolve to Sam fast
asleep, there on couch with Fish on floor below, also asleep, as a knock comes
from door. Cut to front porch, as Fish
opens door with a yawn, to Zane (Leo's boy, 16, holding basketball), Chasin
(Mason's boy, 18) and Miles (Hunter's boy, 20). MILES Hey Fish, wanna’ hoop? (Fish slowly finishing yawn) ZANE Geez, when you'd get so old, Aunt Fish? FISH (turning as they follow him inside) About a year ago, after the little crapper was born. MILES (with laugh) Is she here? FISH Yep, crashed out on the sofa, in here. Leading them into room
as Miles and Chasin go right over to her, adoring their baby cousin. Zane
holding back but with a half-smile. FISH I actually have to wake her, or she'll be up all night. (heading to TV) This is really hilarious, you guys gotta’ see it. But stand over there, where she won't see you, or she might react differently. ZANE (moving with others as Fish gets video ready) What the hell you about to do to your kid? FISH Something you cannot tell her
mothers about. Forgetting they were women, I showed it to them and got reprimanded over the volume, but it won't work without it. ZANE (with laugh) So...risking a visit from child protective services, your daughter's hearing, and the moods of two distraught housewives (Fish rolling eyes/ shaking head with laugh)...this better be good. Chasin and Miles
laughing, as Fish pushes play (volume loud but not blaring), to a pregame chant
by him and fellow teammates on the beach (manmade wiffleball field). CHANT DOWN, DOWN, DOWN. THE MEATMEN GOING DOWN! POV Sam instantly waking
in mild shock. CHANT DOWN, DOWN, DOWN. THE MEATMEN GOING DOWN! Sam immediately climbing
her cute self down from sofa, over directly in front of TV, simply staring
(half asleep) and oblivious to the others behind her, holding their laughter. CHANT WHAT TIME IS IT? IT'S RIPPER TIME! WHAT TIME IS IT? IT'S RIPPER TIME! YEAH! YEAH!! (players jumping up and down) "Ghetto
Superstar", begins playing with edited highlights of the game, causing Sam
to become fully awake and clapping hands, stomping feet, dancing and spitting
out baby sounds of excitement, without taking her eyes from the video. Others silently cracking
up, even Zane an amused smile. Sam finally looks back for dad, showing her
surprise and excitement of her cousins, and taking one last look back at the TV,
before deciding to run over, hugging Dad, and moving on to the others. ZANE (giving her a high-five) NICE! That there is a future Sand Series rookie of the year! Fish shutting off TV. MILES (hugging her) Sand series hall of famer. FISH (taking basketball from Zane) So, how we gonna make this competitive, without any other real hoopers here? Mason's working, and I know why Leo isn't here. Miles, where's your dad? ZANE At the compound with Grandpa, where else? CUT TO: EXT. DRIVEWAY COURT -
DAY Sam bundled up in
playpen, absolutely thrilled to be watching her dad and cousins play
basketball. Fish looking impressive on the court, as he warms up. FISH So, I ask again, how do we make this competitive? ZANE By leaving these two (his cousins) ladies on the sideline, so I can take you on, myself. Fish smiling with a
shake of his head. DISSOLVE TO: Multiple shots of the
game. Fish working Zane on the
court, nailing shots and driving in hard against him. Cousins and Sam watching
with excitement. Zane nailing a shot with extreme emotion. Fish nailing some
more shots, Zane frustrated and sweaty. Wyatt (Hunter's boy, 17)
arriving. FISH Hey Wyatt, just in time to see me finishing off your baby cousin. Fish nailing game-winning
shot. Zane annoyed/frustrated. FISH You're alright, Zane. Only 16, bub. Give it five or six years, you'll be heading into your prime, I'll be leaving mine, maybe you'll eventually catch me on a bad day. Miles, Chasin and Wyatt
laughing. Fish picking up and kissing Sam. Zane frustrated but wanting more. ZANE Again! CUT TO: PRESENT TIME INT. TREE HOUSE BEDROOM
- NIGHT Fish entering room (Sam
relaxing), washing face in sink (yes, they have running water!), and drying off
with towel. SAM Dad? FISH Yes, baby? SAM Tell me about a time before I was born, or even a time before I remember...(sitting next to her thinking) Make it good... Fish smiling and
pondering a moment... FISH McDonalds, loved going there as a kid. We dined at some fancy places, but at least once a month, we're at Pizza Hut or a burger joint, eating with the general public. Same reason we all went to public schools. Grandpa wanted us real, as he called it. So, while scarfing big macs, this one time, my dad just starts talking and laughing with this regular guy, who begins cracking us all up. Then outside, Scout and I had the time of our lives on the play equipment, with that guy's daughter, who was our age. I always remembered that day. SAM That's it? FISH Patience, dear. About five or six years later, Scout and I were bored. We were with friends from another neighborhood, where we always got into plenty of trouble. (Sam smiling, getting sleepy) Our friends told us about watching older kids, in the neighborhood with our brothers, when they were our age, and how they hit cars with walnuts, and used their back alley as a sure getaway. SAM Uncle Hunter did that? FISH No, Leo and Mason. They were dad's toughest, and that night I let their influence get the best of me. We nailed car after car, and even had some close calls, but always got away. Till we didn't. This one guy was on us, before the walnut even touched his damn car. (Sam a laugh) I had been feeling a rush all night long, but from the moment this guy hit his breaks, I felt nothing but fear, and even though I myself, got away, it was Scout and her friend, who got caught. So, I had no choice but to come out. I thought this guy was gonna’ do things I was too scared to even think about, but for at least fifteen minutes he spoke to us with nothing but respect, and told us over and over how dangerous it was. How hurt he'd be if we'd caused him to have an accident, and something happened to his daughter, who was in the truck, and the most beautiful girl I had ever seen. I got teary-eyed, imagining being the reason something terrible happened to her, either one of them. We told them both how sorry we were, and they were both extremely cool about it. SAM So, was he the guy from McDonalds? FISH I knew he seemed familiar, as did his gorgeous daughter, and sure enough, once he took off his jacket, I noticed the tattoo of his wife's name. I had always remembered that. All that fun we had that day, and there his daughter was. It blew me away, crossing paths like that, again. SAM Did they know? FISH Nope. But I got brave, braver than I ever had been, and just told them. Told them everything...and then actually asked him for his number, and if I could call his daughter. They both laughed…but gave me the digits. SAM (smiling) Did you call her? FISH Over and over. SAM Ever date? FISH Nope, but she did give birth to you. SAM (instantly wide awake) It was Mom?! It was Grandpa Joe?! FISH It was indeed, and that's why I don't believe in coincidence. Things happen for a reason, and without that extra crazy amount of courage, I found to ask for that phone number, then you, the love of my life, would not exist. SAM Or if you never threw that walnut! FISH (nodding) A very special walnut that was, indeed. SAM Oh my god...(laying back with a yawn) I can't believe I'm just now hearing that story. FISH We always said we were going to tell you together, and when you were old enough to appreciate it. (another yawn) Okay baby, sleep. Sam closing her eyes
with a smile. SAM That was definitely a good one... Fish turning off
lanterns, grabbing a gun and climbing in bed... SAM Merry will keep us safe. FISH We're in a very safe place to be. Even safer tomorrow, once with family... Silence as they both try
to drift... Sudden lone gunshot,
from across lake is fired, as both Fish and Sam rise straight up. Fish looking
out and around. (window cracked) SAM Was that a gun? FISH Afraid so. Fish now grabbing
binoculars from a box, looking across lake. His POV of a house with a porch
light on. He searches all around, then comes back to porch, as old lady walks
out. SAM (off-screen (OS)) What do you see? POV Fish. FISH Mrs. Pederson just came out...sitting...doesn't look upset or scared, wait... SAM What? FISH She's crying. Fish putting down
binoculars and kind of pacing, picks them back up, looks again. His POV as she sits
there with her face in her hands. Fish tosses binoculars back down, sitting and
putting on shoes. FISH Come on. SAM (instantly rising) What are we doing? CUT TO: Fish, Sam, and Merry in
boat, cruising across lake, toward the Pederson place. Dissolve to Fish
bringing boat to a stop at dock and helping Sam out. Cut to Mrs. Pederson
sitting alone on back porch, suddenly startled by the sound of Fish and Sam
approaching. FISH It's okay, Mrs. Pederson. It's just me, Fish, and my daughter, Sam. (Mrs. Pederson's hand over heart, with whimper of relief) Are you okay? Mrs. Pederson slowly
stands, instantly hugging Fish, who throws a worried look at Sam. MRS. PEDERSON What on earth is going on? Mrs. Pederson sitting
back down with a hand on Sam. FISH I'm not quite sure, as of a few hours ago I thought everything was right in the world. Now...(shaking head) I just don't know. But we did hear a gunshot, from over here. (looking at her) Mrs. Pederson, is your husband inside? Did he try to shoot an attacker, or something? Mrs. Pederson looking
from Fish to Sam, then straight ahead... MRS. PEDERSON We got a call from our son, this afternoon. He said he was packing up, stopping for his daughter's family, and driving them all straight up here... Said there was a lot of panic in the city, and random police shootings all day, including right there in his neighborhood. We told him right away to quit wasting time with us on the phone, and just get our great grandchildren here. But he warned us he hadn't been able to reach his sister all day, and for us to keep trying... We finally reached her husband, who was just as worried about her as we were, and one of their children had not made it home from school, yet. We kept trying her, but then got a call from our son's daughter, who should have been picked up by now, and on their way up here, but he was now unreachable as well. (getting choked up) She sounded so petrified. Said people were everywhere outside, including her yard. We could hear gunshots, outside. She said 911 wasn't even working. She was crying and we couldn't do anything for her. (Sam getting emotional) She said she was too terrified to take the kids outside to the car, but we told her she must. Then we heard glass break and the children screaming, then...(crying) (Sam crying) The most horrific scream I've ever heard. The phone stopped working… I could see the pain in my husband's eyes. The moment he began loading his gun, I knew it was not for protection. He kept saying he couldn't get that scream out of his head. We had agreed to do it together. But when he asked if I was ready... I just...couldn't. He told me he understood, and to forgive him. Mrs. Pederson simply
weeping, as Fish looked at the door, then to Sam with a nod toward Mrs. Pederson,
before slowly entering inside, as Sam went sitting next to Mrs. Pederson, with
a hug. SAM I'm so sorry, Mrs. Pederson. MRS. PEDERSON Oh, bless you child. (holding on to her tightly) SAM My cousin Miles might be dying. I know how you feel. I'm so scared. Both of them weeping
together, and comforting each other...Fish coming back out. FISH Mrs. Pederson, I'm going to help you pack a bag or two, and you're going to come stay with us tonight. SAM We have a compound. You can come live there, with us! MRS. PEDERSON I...I can't leave my cat alone. When are you leaving? FISH Daylight. Going to at least check the roads and see what's going on out there. Worse comes to worse, we'll come right back and ride it out here, until it either ends, or we can make an attempt to reach that compound. MRS. PEDERSON I'm so tired. I just want to sleep in my bed. FISH Mrs. Pederson, you don't want to go back in there. I covered him, but... MRS. PEDERSON I sleep upstairs. I'll pack and be ready in the morning. FISH Mrs. Pederson, are you sure? MRS. PEDERSON (a look at him) I need to say goodbye, to him, to my home. I'll be fine. FISH Okay, well, we'll come over bright and early and pick you up here, okay? MRS. PEDERSON Yes, I can meet you guys there. FISH No, Mrs. Pederson, we'll be here to get you, okay? We're coming to get you. But right now, Sam and I need to get some sleep too, so we're going to go. MRS. PEDERSON I'm sorry dear, yes, right here. You two go get some rest. God bless you both... CUT TO: Fish, Sam, and Merry
walking off their dock, toward side of cabin. SAM It's just like Grandpa said, isn't it? FISH I'm afraid so. He never really cared what caused the apocalypse, nearly as much as he feared the people who would survive it. But, maybe, just maybe, that's more so what's going on here, than people biting and eating other people. I don't know, maybe I'm just being wishful. I mean, not that a world with rioting people everywhere, is much better, but I think I'd take that, over one where the dead are snacking on us. (thinking, followed by a laugh) I will say though, if we're dinner for the dead, then that's one theory even your grandpa missed. SAM Because it isn't real. FISH Certainly questioning it myself. But something's real, and we'll figure more out in the morning. (reaching side of cabin) But now, I'm afraid we're going to have to tie Merry up, here for the night. SAM How come? Fish tying her up. FISH If anyone looking for trouble happens to come along, and see Merry at the tree, they'd know we're up there. SAM But what if they see her here? FISH They'll think we're inside. It'll give us an opportunity to determine if they're looking for trouble, or for help. SAM What if it's trouble Fish finishing with
Merry, and turning toward tree house. FISH Well then, you'll get your chance to fire a gun... Dissolve to Fish pulling
ladder up into tree house. FISH Main reason we put in a pull-up ladder was to keep teenagers out. Never figured it end up being so convenient like this. SAM That's not what Zane said... DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK -
(about a month ago) EXT. TREE HOUE �" DAY Base of tree (with
background noise of power equipment/hammering), where Zane and Dakota work on
attaching strips of wood onto tree (as a ladder), as Sam approaches. SAM But we have a real ladder, why are you making this? DAKOTA It's a decoy. ZANE When the world ends, a few centuries from now, you won't want people thinking your family is surviving up there. One look at this old "busted" ladder, and they'll assume it's abandoned. (pointing to his head) Gotta’ be a thinker, Sam. (walking up ladder attaching another strip) SAM What do you mean, busted? DAKOTA Once finished, we'll break these bottom strips, enough to where no one could use it to get up there. There's a ladder in the brush, over there on that other tree, to reach the rope for the pullout ladder. SAM (thinking) So, is he serious about it being centuries, or was that sarcasm? DAKOTA (chuckles) Little of both. ZANE See Sam, technology will save our future family and mankind, before the compound or this tree house does. We'll be living in space long before the planet reaches its expiration date. SAM Well, what if technology itself, causes the planets expirationdate? (Zane heading down) DAKOTA (smirk) Ha! She's got you there, big brother. ZANE You're only ten, stop saying crap like that. DAKOTA Don't sweat it Sam, he hates it whenever I outsmart him, too. ZANE I sure would, if and when that day comes. Dakota a roll of the
eyes, as she leads Sam away. DAKOTA Come on Sam, food that smells that great, must be ready to eat. POV panning back to
entire area (tree house only half built), while Sam's family is hard at work,
building the tree house or preparing the feast (lot of dogs playing/running
around)... CUT TO: Grandpa at head of
multiple tables where entire family sits, giving him their attention. (Hunter (49), wife April
(34), son Miles (30), his wife Jennifer (31), their daughter August (6), son
Jax (4), son Maddox (3), Hunter's son Gunner (28), his wife Rachel (28), their
son Blaze (3), Hunter's son Wyatt (27), wife Sarah (26) all present) (Leo (48), wife Mary
(50), son Zane (26), Troy (24), pregnant fiancé Angela (24), Leo's daughter
Kate (23), Dakota (21), Leo's son Jagger (19) all present) (Mason (46), girlfriend
Missy (40), son Chasin (28), wife Catherine (29), their son Bo (6), daughter
Kat (5), Mason's son Rich (21), Mason's daughter Jaelyn (19) all present) (Vincent (44), son Greg
(20), son Mark (18) all present) (Scout (40), daughter
Hope (18), daughter Ryder (17), son Bryant (15) all present) (Fish (42), Sam both
present) GRANDPA (Sam) Well, before I begin boring you all with one of my pre-meal speeches (cut off) SAMANTHA (sitting next to Scout) We love your boring speeches, Grandpa! SCOUT OWWW! FISH (jokingly) Speak for your own generation! SAMANTHA DAD! HUNTER Yeah, we've been hearing these speeches for fortyish’ years! VINCENT Just don't put us to sleep, like you did at the 94 reunion! Laughs. MASON Yeah, I still have trouble keeping my eyes open from that one! (more laughs) SCOUT I used it as a bedtime story, to put my kids to sleep! Ton of laughs. SAMANTHA SCOUT! HUNTER Me too, but only when they were really bad! (laughs) ZANE Yeah, why count sheep, when we can count his speeches! Everyone cracking up. Grandpa a chuckle and
looking around waiting for anymore possible interruption, before going on. GRANDPA Is that it? Because I could almost go for a nap myself, after all these corny so-called one-liners. (few laughs) I mean...how much time and preparation exactly goes into that material, because if I was a little off in 94, well...I'm up here in front of you all, just winging it. So, what's your excuse? Few laughs, and Zane
about to open his mouth, but halted by Grandpa. GRANDPA Zane, don't answer that! I love you, and you may be standing up here leading this family yourself someday (Leo an irritated look), but please don't answer that. SAMANTHA Wait...(a look from Zane, to Grandpa, and back to Zane) I'm sorry, Grandpa, I want to hear what he was going to say. Everyone cracking up,
even Zane amused… SAMANTHA What? He's funny. ZANE And that's why, Sam, you'll be my number two, someday. GRANDPA SAMANTHA! Where you at?! You were just defending me a second ago! Lots of laughs, Zane
mouthing, "I'll tell you later", to Sam, who smiles. GRANDPA Anyway...I honestly meant to keep it short this year, and for the most part, simply wanted to thank Samantha, Scout, her beautiful girls, you too Bryant, along with both Greg and Mark, for their wonderful and creative suggestion, of not only having this year's reunion, at this gorgeous location, but to share in such an imaginative project, while doing so. It's days like this, that provide me with an answer to just what it is, that makes this family so special. ZANE Your bank account? (some laughs) GRANDPA There indeed was a time while young and immature, Like Zane, that I too, believed it was our family fortune that was the envy of others, but it's this right here. (motioning at them and the scene) Us, that tree house, this food, our traditions, the important ones and even the silly ones. I have been so blessed to have such big dreams, and to see them come true...yet, it's you people here, who continue to blow my mind. It's you people who have turned this old man, from the tough, strict, entrepreneur he once was, to a father, a grandfather, a great-grandfather, and now...the most sappy son of a b***h on the planet, so KNOCK IT OFF! Everyone applauding and
laughing. SAMANTHA WE LOVE YOU GRANDPA!!! Samantha and Scout
cheering together. DISSOVLE TO: PRESENT
TIME INT. TREE HOUSE BEDROOM
- NIGHT Sam climbing into bed,
Fish in background doing the same and shutting off lantern (light from cabin
coming through window). SAM Dad? FISH Yeah? SAM Bo and Kat are safe, right? And Blaze, August, Jax and Maddox? FISH Hunter's entire family is there. Bo and Kat, along with their parents, were on their way. I'm sure safe and sound by now. SAM Who else isn't there, yet? FISH I'm not sure, I got cut off before getting all that information. I know something was said about Zane and Leo, at the SSH. SAM Zane will get them all there... You really think we can make it? FISH Tomorrow? Maybe, maybe not. I'm not going to risk getting stuck in traffic. Not when we can easily ride it out here for a while, till it either ends or the roads become passable. Silence for a moment... SAM But, if it doesn't end, how does the road become passable? Where does everyone go? FISH That's something I don't want to think about, baby girl. But again, if that happens, we'll be plenty safe here, till we can get to Grandpa, or until they can get to us. Some silence… SAM You think we will be safe, there? FISH Of course, I do. SAM You said Grandpa went broke. I’ve heard Uncle Leo say lots of times how much is still needed there, and that if the world ended, it wasn’t really ready. FISH Yes, once the theme park became a reality, and about another decade went by, Leo would have been one happy camper, but that place is a fortress, baby, and we’ll be plenty safe there. SAM The theme park’s not going to happen, now, is it? FISH Not if your grandfather has anything to say about it. More silence... SAM They must be so worried about us. FISH Which is why they'll come get us if we can't get to them. They've got the resources to get here, and you know it.Now sleep, baby girl... DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK -
(same reunion) EXT: LAKE (background
music playing from radio) - DAY Sam sitting down next to
Bo (6) and Kat (5) (both taking off life jackets), on a blanket by the river,
munching on a bag of chips as Miles and wife Jennifer, pull their kids (on
floating devices) August (6), Jax (4) and Maddox (3) to shore, and over to blanket
with Sam and others. In background, Scout and daughters Hope and Ryder, are all
in water, where Bryant backflips into the scene, splashing down into the lake
from a rope swing, as Fish zips by with his boat, pulling Greg on water skis,
with both Zane and Dakota cruising around on jet skis... SAM Rest five minutes, then back in we go. SCOUT (shouting from water) Samantha, get your cute butt back out here, girl! SAM I'm busy using my cute butt to sit here making my tummy happy (munching on chips), and will meet you out there in five. Scout and her girls
laughing, and splashing around, with Chasin swinging into scene, dropping in
from rope swing, as POV settles on Grandpa arriving and crouching down in front
of Sam, and the other children there on the blanket. GRANDPA Samantha, watching you here with your little cousins is no different than it was watching your dad, do the same thing with all your older cousins. It makes me happy to see you being the same kind of leader, he was. (patting her head as he leaves, Sam smiling) Keep up the good work, soldier. SAM (saluting him) Yes, sir! DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT
TIME INT. TREE HOUSE BEDROOM
- NIGHT Silence as they both lay
motionless in bed... SAM Dad, you asleep? FISH No, was just wondering if you were. SAM I'm about to be... FISH Me too. Night baby girl. It will all get better in the morning. (barely speaking, more so drifting) After a night of rest... Lights from outside all
going off, as neither of them move for a moment, before Fish suddenly comes to
life, instantly up and over to window, which forces Sam to pop up and do the
same. SAM Did the power just go out? FISH Yes, I was afraid of that. (moving to other window) SAM What are you looking for? FISH Mrs. Pederson. His POV of her dark
place. SAM (OS (off-screen)) You gave her a flashlight. I don't see it. FISH She's probably asleep. Like we should be. (guiding her back to bed) Come on, this changes nothing, other than the importance of getting that rest. Both of them climbing
back into bed, snuggling themselves up under their blankets... SAM (emotion in her voice) I can't stop thinking about Grandpa. I feel like we're letting him down. FISH Baby! He is worried about us, yes, and will be until he sees us, but the day you let him down, is the day I no longer care what the world's doing, out there. He knows we're doing everything we can, and like I said, if we can't get to him, you know he's coming for you. That man is crazy about you. Almost as much as I am, and people with that kind of addiction, well, they need help! Sam a little laugh… SAM Don't make me laugh, I'll never get to sleep. FISH Beats crying. Think positively baby, you'll sleep much better. Silence for a while,
before gunshots in the far distance cause them both to rise and listen. About a
dozen shots are fired, before ceasing... SAM Dad? FISH It's okay. SAM How far is that? FISH (while going from window to window to look around) Nowhere near us. SAM (still in bed) What are you looking for? What do you see? FISH Nothing. I'm just thinking. (stopping and thinking) SAM What, Dad? What?! FISH (heading out) Wait here. SAM Dad, where you going?! CUT TO: Sam helping Fish, up
from ladder with more boxes. Fish carries them into bedroom, unloading more
guns and ammo, as he begins preparing them all, and placing next to windows. FISH Now, I know I don't have to warn you not to touch or pick up these weapons, but I'm going to anyhow. Samantha, do not touch these weapons. (picking up the one he trained her with) This one, you can pick up, if told to, or for some reason I'm not here to tell you, and you know it's what you have to do. (places gun under her bed) I am trusting you with this one, and it's fully loaded and ready to go, if the time comes. Fish stopping to look at
her. She looks back, with a tear in her eye. FISH I know, you're scared. SAM I am, I don't understand. I thought we were just going to sleep, and trying to get to Grandpa in the morning. FISH We are, but something's going on out there and we might have to defend ourselves. I don't actually believe we will, but I had to prepare us just in case. This is what Grandpa would want us to do. (helping her back under covers) He's going to be so proud hearing about our adventures here, and how we kept ourselves out of danger. SAM I can't wait to tell him. Fish over to his bed,
placing gun within reach. Sam watches him, then closes eyes. Fish covers up,
closing his eyes. Both lying there in silence... SAM I can't wait to tell Zane, too. Maybe once there, he can work with me on shooting? He'll be so surprised I know how to handle it. No one's gonna’ mess with our family, long as Zane's with us... DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK -
(same reunion) EXT: TREE HOUSE - DAY Lot of hammering/power
equipment as the family is back to work on the tree house. POV pans around the
entire group, coming to find Mary (Leo’s wife) walking away from the cabin. POV
moves toward back of cabin, finding Fish and Leo. LEO It's humiliating, the way he stands up their praising Zane, while ignoring me as if I don't even exist. FISH You're the only one who sees it that way. LEO The boy is a high school Freshmen baseball coach. His income does nothing to contribute to this family, or that compound. Couldn't even make it out of the army! Kid has no respect for authority. FISH This family is as secure as it needs to be, he's the best damn Freshmen coach there's ever been, and do you even know what he does with his spare time? The kids he influences? He's doing the things Dad never had time to do, and he's great at them. He's going to be an amazing coach, affecting lives year in and year out, once he takes over the school's team. He'll be a legend there. LEO Yet he doesn't even have kids of his own. FISH He's only twenty-six. I only have one of my own, and don't make enough extra income to contribute to the family. What does that make me, Leo? LEO Someone who knows his place, who’s not trying to lead. Fish simply staring at
him for a moment... FISH You're right Leo, I'm not. But you know what? Sam just might. And if and when she does, or if and when our father mentions the idea of it, I'll be proud, (a strong look right at Leo) not jealous! Fish walking away,
around side of cabin. POV Zane, inside walking away from the open window, where
Leo stood outside it... CUT TO: Music blasting on radio,
as Hunter, Miles, Gunner, and Wyatt, work together on raising heavy pieces of
the tree house, up into the tree, followed by multiples shots of hard work that
expresses how the outhouse and running water works, among other aspects. One family member can be
heard explaining the need for an extra bedroom, for when they have family
sleepovers. Final shot is of radio going off, as majority of family rushes
toward Zane and Leo, who are exchanging punches. Sam watching and crying. Fish,
the first to break it up, with help from Miles and Dakota. Leo more annoyed than
anything, and simply walking away into cabin, slamming door. FISH I was just defending you to him. (Zane about to speak but cut off) Oh yeah, I know he's a real SOB, but here you are letting it affect you in the worst way possible. (Fish in close, talking amongst the two of them) Look at your young cousins, bearing witness to this mess. A memorable weekend ending with this crap. (walking away, looking right at him) I'm disappointed in you, son... Zane devastated... DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT
TIME INT: TREE HOUSE BEDROOM
- NIGHT Silence as they both lay
motionless in bed... SAM Dad, you asleep? FISH Close. You? SAM Yes. Stay up three more minutes, I'll be out by then. FISH Okay, baby... Silence, several
moments, until car lights send them both leaping out of bed, looking out
window. SAM Uncle Vincent!? FISH Oh God, please. (shaking head) Nope. That's not his car. Fish now reaching down
for his gun, along with binoculars, leading Sam to safest place to stay down
at, and signaling her to keep quiet, as he leans down close to window, looking
and listening. Merry now barking, as three guys climb out of car, gingerly looking
around. Fish gesturing for Sam to continue her silence, as he works hard to
listen... Those men come together,
looking at Merry and all around… MAN 1 (from passenger side, holding a knife) Well, I'll tell you one thing, whoever owns this place is loaded. MAN 2 (driver, holding a knife) And obviously here. MAN 3 (backseat, carrying an axe) We got no play here. Might have eyes on us already, and those eyes are probably aiming something, right at us. MAN 1 We need that something. Cut to Fish
watching/listening. FISH Damn it, I can't hear most of what they're saying. Wait...looks like maybe...looks like they're leaving. Think Merry scared them off. (as she stops barking) SAM What did you hear them say? FISH Not much. That they could tell we were loaded. Must have made em' think twice, before messing with us. He watches them pull
away. SAM So, they weren't here to eat us? FISH (slight chuckle) No, but they were holding weapons. An axe and a pair of knives. Three guys altogether. SAM So, they were looking for trouble? FISH (sitting on his bed) That, or they were just scared, not sure what to expect, from whomever they encounter. SAM Is this how it's going to be, until it ends? We have to be scared of everyone we see? FISH (hesitating) I hate to say it, but yes. Until there is some sort of order, we really can't trust anyone. With any luck, that order will be taking place sometime tomorrow. (glancing toward the window, hesitant to lay back down) SAM Can we go to sleep, now? FISH Yeah, I just keep wondering if I should move the car closer. SAM Why? FISH I don't know, in case we need to get to it quickly. SAM That's not helping me sleep. FISH Sorry, baby. (getting under blankets) Let’s sleep. Few moments pass... SAM You sure Merry will be okay over there? FISH Merry kicks a*s. She just saved us, those dudes wanted nothing to do with her. SAM But what if they would have? FISH They'd all have trouble sitting for a while, because I would've shot each and every one of those punks, right in the a*s. Sam a faint laugh,
followed by a yawn. Fish yawns. Several moments of silence...gunshot in far,
far distance, with several seconds of silence to follow... SAM Dad? FISH I'm awake, I heard it. Was just listening for more. That one was pretty far, though. Fish lying there with
his eyes open. SAM God, I hope we're going to sleep in warm beds, safe and sound at the compound with Mom, tomorrow night. Fish sadly closing his
eyes... Several moments of
silence, before Merry suddenly barks wildly, followed by the sound of their
cabin door being kicked in, along with a window and a ton of racket, as both
Fish (grabbing gun) and Sam, tear out of bed, looking to window (as Fish keeps
her back). His POV of cabin, where
Merry barks right at it with door wide open, and people with flashlights inside
moving around quickly. SAM (scared) Dad, what is it!? FISH Someone's inside. SAM Merry! FISH She's fine. (pulling his gun up closer, ready if need be) Cut to cabin, where the
sound of people inside comes to a slow, with flashlights coming together and
toward front door/porch, where those same 3 men come out (Merry barking
louder), instantly looking all around, and eventually all of them coming to
focus directly on the tree house. Cut to Fish grabbing
Sam's gun, handing to her, speaking to her quietly but sternly. FISH The safety is on, you know how to take it off and how to fire. If something happens to me, that's exactly what you do, to anyone who tries to hurt you! (Sam beginning to cry) Baby, I got this! I'm just preparing you and you got this too, now man up! Sam working hard to
shift, from emotion to focus, as Fish watches/listens. MAN 3 (off-screen) That dog (with annoyance) needs to be put down! MAN 2 (off-screen (OS)) I got it. Sam an instant look at
Fish, who stands, fully lifts window, aims, and fires several shots at the
ground (at their feet), sending all three men running into the brush. Merry still
barking. SAM Dad! Is Merry okay?! Fish a little shocked,
but quickly bringing Sam to window, holding her steady and helping her aim her
gun toward direction men went (but a little toward the sky). FISH This is your chance to learn. SAM I'm going to fire it? Fish holding her steady. FISH Remember what I told you about the kickback. Yes, right now, Samantha. She fires... FISH Three more... She fires once more,
then two straight shots...Fish looking/listening out window, as car is heard
skidding away. Fish all wound up, begins yelling out window. FISH PUT DOWN MY DAMN DOG WILL YOU!?! (quickly calming down, looking at Sam) Put the safety back on and place the gun back under your bed. She does as he says,
comes up looking at him, and goes in for a hug. FISH I am so proud of you. SAM Dad... FISH Yes? Sam not answering as
Fish comes out of hug, looking at her face full of tears. SAM Please go get my dog. Fish hesitating a
moment... FISH Sam, we really need her down there warning us - Fish cut off, as Sam
instantly loses all control of her emotions (bawling), and pleading for him
with her body language, to go retrieve her dog, as he hugs her tight. FISH Okay, okay, of course baby. I will go get her. It's okay Samantha, it's okay. (Sam practically hyperventilating) Calm down baby. Breathe... Cut to Fish at side of
cabin petting an overly excited Merry, with a look back toward the tree house. Sam at window with a
smile. FISH (OS (off-screen)) I'll move the car first, then get her some water. Sam watching him, then
looking down at the gun, in her trembling hand. Fish cautiously looking
around, as he reaches vehicle, climbing inside, starting engine and pulling
over closer to the tree house, while Sam cautiously keeps a good lookout from
the window. Her POV of Dad moving
the vehicle her way, as she scans the entire area, from Merry to the lake,
brush below, the surrounding trees, and all the way over to the driveway. Fish now turning off
vehicle, stepping outside, and while closing door, two of those guys are back
behind him, charging (quietly) from the brush, trying to sneak up on him, but
suddenly a series of shots are fired, from above (from Sam), as Fish turns,
firing his gun and nailing the man with an axe, who falls dead. The other guy
arrives (shirt open, revealing swastika tattoo on chest), sticking a blade into
Fish’s gut, then ducks to avoid the series of shots still going off. Once shots
cease, he races away toward car, that is now arriving. MAN 1 Go! Go! Go! (jumping into car) MAN 2 (driver) You didn't get any firepower! MAN 1 They killed Lonnie! There's too many of them! Just GO! Car speeding away, as Sam
is still firing gun (out of ammo) with a look of shock, as she slowly drops her
arm, followed by gun to the floor and looking out window toward her dad lying
on the ground, next to the car. In
complete shock, she mouths the words several times, before getting them out. SAM DAD!? DAAAAAD!? She freezes as she hears
him try to speak, before instantly dashing out of room. Fish lying on ground in
bad shape. Sam almost falling off ladder, rushing to his aid, and dropping down
right near his face. SAM Daddy, daddy, daddy! Oh my God, Dad! What can I do, what do I do?! How do I fix it?! We have to go, we need a doctor! Daddy...(just crying) FISH (hard to speak) Ms...Mrs. Pee...Pederson. Stay here, with her. Wait for...fa...fam...family... Closing his eyes for
last time, as Sam screams the loudest most silent scream ever, and dropping her
head to his chest... DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK -
(same reunion) INT. CABIN LIVING ROOM -
DAY Sam pulling at Fish by
the arm. SAM You need to talk to him, right now. FISH Samantha, he knows where to find me. SAM Dad. He was crying. I've never seen him cry before. (again pulling him away) You have to talk to him. CUT TO: Zane smoking a joint,
looking out over the gorgeous lake, as Fish walks up from behind. ZANE In a way, it's almost like your own little compound here, isn't it? I remember Grandpa wasn't thrilled when you put so much effort and pocket change into a place here, rather than at the compound. You love the family, Fish, you just don't let it dictate you. Fish looking from Zane,
to the joint in his hand. FISH Fraid' I can't partake in this kind of conversation, Without (grabbing joint) partaking in a bit of this. Fish hitting it. ZANE I understand how I let you down, and absolutely agree with you. I let him make me act like he does, and I knew it was a mistake, the moment I did. (Fish releasing hit) I hope you understand, Fish, you're more of a father to me than he has ever been. He can't make me feel the way you did, when you ripped into me like that. That's what I've been standing here trying to contemplate. How his words make me angry, but yours... FISH Damn Zane, you went one way with this conversation, and then just turned around and took it another direction. (Fish hitting again) ZANE Yeah, I can do that. (Fish releasing) FISH There's just always been an angry side to him, that he believes no one can understand, and maybe we can’t. Unfortunately, it’s a side that you seem to be burden with seeing, much more than the rest of us. ZANE Thank you! FISH He just pushes you harder, knows how special you are. ZANE (with a laugh) That's sure a nice way of putting it, I guess. The thing is, it's not that he believes I fail or will fail, it's that he wants me to fail...I feel like a threat to him... Zane hitting
joint...Fish searching, but at a loss for words... FISH I'm...honestly at a loss for words. A little stoned but, just sad, son, that you have to feel that way. Zane releasing hit, and
placing arm around Fish as they walk off. ZANE That's what I have you for, Fish... DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT
TIME EXT. BELOW TREE HOUSE -
NIGHT Dark with sound of
vomiting, as Sam pulls her head up from ground, back to extreme hysterics, over
the death of her father, lying there motionless next to her. Several POV's from
behind the brush, the tree house, the lake, the cabin, and others, all of Sam
lying/sitting there weeping... Suddenly, her dad moves
a bit, causing her to jump, and become dead quiet, before a sound comes from
him. SAM DAD! Dad, you're still alive! (going right over the top of him) Dad, what can I do? Dad suddenly rising with
a grunt, as she excitedly throws her arms around him. SAM You're okay! Sam pulling back,
looking at him, suddenly scared, as he lunges with open mouth, as if trying to
bite her. SAM Dad, what...(she braces him with her hands but he Becomes aggressive) Dad!? Knocking her to the
ground, quickly climbing on top of her, as she screams and fights him off
enough to rise to her feet, slowly backing away as he rises, immediately going
after her. SAM (crying) What are you doing? What is this? Sam hearing her dad's
voice in her head, explaining people eating people, as she continues to back
away from him, toward tree house. She could hear her dad's voice, questioning
whether dead or alive people were eating other people, which only made her cry
more, as she was putting it all together, and realizing the corpse in front of
her, was no longer her dad. She turned and ran to the ladder, climbing up top,
simply dropping face down against the deck, sobbing for several moments, before
quickly looking below (about to pull up ladder), realizing he could not climb
up after her. She again begins vomiting, a bit, and on the verge of maybe
passing out, but looking down as Merry begins to bark. She looks from Merry to
her dad, who slowly begins turning around toward Merry, where Sam again
desperately looks. Fish now retreating from base of ladder, making his way
toward Merry, as Sam again tries to speak, but with no words, at first... SAM No...Merry. No Merry, no! Merry at side of cabin
barking. Fish approaching. Sam now looking completely panicked, and it is heard
in her voice. SAM Dad no. Fish! Dad, I'm right here! Dad what are you doing?! Sam banging ladder.
Merry barking louder. Fish getting closer. Sam banging harder, crying
hysterically. SAM DAAAAAAD! Daddy, no! Merry barking as Fish
closes in. Sam in hysterics at top of ladder. Merry now expressing fear, as
Fish is almost on her. She now whimpers, pees herself and simply lays down, as
Fish bites into her, causing her to yelp. Sam in complete shock again, without
the strength to form words/sounds, with mouth wide open. Fish and Merry a
bloody mess, as Fish eats away. Sam finally letting out one last scream,
followed by extreme dizziness, and passing out with her head hitting the deck,
of the tree house. BLACK CREDITS THE END
© 2024 Mike Decker |
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Added on December 31, 2018 Last Updated on March 13, 2024 Tags: The Walking Dead, Fear the Walking Dead, Zombies, apocalypse Author
Mike Deckervancouver, WAAboutMy daughter and I are huge Walking Dead fans, and have put together our own spinoff series, of it... Above The Dead It's an absolute emotional mess, and a total suspense/thriller... https://w.. more..Writing
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