The Twins of Deception

THE TWINS OF DECEPTION
Written by
Dave Vaughan
FADE IN:
INT. RAILWAY HQ. - MODEL TRAIN ROOM - DAY
A Passenger train comes around the curve SOUNDING a series of

LOUD WHISTLE blasts. A Freight train emerges from a tunnel
travelling in the opposite direction. Headlights glare.
Steel wheels POUND the rails. WHISTLE warnings are PIERCING.

The first train flashes its headlight. A head-on collision
appears inevitable.
The trains race toward each other. Closer. A crash is about

to happen. Closer. At the last split second each train
diverts onto adjacent tracks averting the catastrophe.
BIG SALLY, sixties, looks up from his sophisticated model

train set wearing a striped engineer’s hat along with a suit
best described as loud and outdated.
FRANCOIS has his hands on his hips. Waiting. He could be a

cover boy for GQ magazine.
FRANCOIS
Big Sal. The man? In your office?
INT. CHRISTIE'S AUCTION HOUSE (NEW YORK) - DAY
The AUCTIONEER displays a Faberge egg. Translucent green and

gold with blue and orange enamel mounts.
AUCTIONEER
In 1884, Faberge originated these
eggs for the Czar of Russia. There
are less than seventy in existence
today, each one unique, boasting
artistic creativity and fine
craftsmanship.
BOBBY and ROCKET O'BRIEN, late thirties, observe the action

along with upscale PATRONS. They are impeccably groomed in
Armani suits. Rocket focuses on a leggy REDHEAD across the
aisle.
ROCKET
Collecting coins and cards is one
thing Bobby, but this here is the
big leagues. Sophisti...Cated.
Bobby checks his watch. Rocket winks at the Redhead. His

effort is rewarded with an icy stare.
2.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
Big bucks for what - something to
just look at?
BOBBY
Maybe you should look at the future
beyond just a one night stand?
EXT. CHRISTIE'S AUCTION HOUSE - DAY
Bobby and Rocket slide into a waiting limousine.
INT. LIMOUSINE - DAY - TRAVELING
Bobby holds a large, thick book with a plain jacket. He

scrawls CHER onto the cover with a marker. Rocket taps
Bobby’s book with his own Thesaurus.
ROCKET
Capital asset, maybe. Not like you
can take it to a bar or anything.
BOBBY
Read your own book, Mister “Improve
Your Vocabulary In Thirty Days”. I
need to plan our exit strategy,
unless you want to hand over a big
bucket of cash to Big Sally for
breech of contract. We’ll take it
slow and drive him crazy in the
process.
The radio NEWSMAN is heard as the privacy window lowers.
NEWSMAN (V.O.)
A record ten million dollars was
bid today for the Trans-Siberian
Railway...
The DRIVER mutes the radio and turns to his passengers.
DRIVER
Need to stop along the way?
ROCKET
You can facilitate our destination
or find some place where the chicks
are hot and the beer is cold. First
round is on my brother Bobby here.
BOBBY
Hey, we have a train to catch.
3.
EXT. RAILWAY HQ. (FLORIDA) - DAY
A sleek, modern building boasts palm trees beside a twisted,

rusted sculpture of welded train tracks.
INT. RAILWAY HQ. - BIG SALLY'S OFFICE - DAY
Big Sally swaggers in with cocky arrogance. He spots MEATES

studying the wall sized photo of a passenger train consisting
of eighteen coaches and thirty auto carriers.
BIG SALLY
What exactly are you looking for?
Tough looking Meates has the grid-iron look of determination

found in the eyes of a linebacker. He displays a faxed photo
of Bobby bidding inside Christie's auction house.
MEATES
Know this man?
BIG SALLY
(casual)
He looks somewhat familiar.
Meates surveys the desk loaded with model train engines and
boxcars. The nameplate reads SALVATORE SERRA.
MEATES
Can you be a little more specific?
BIG SALLY
If you could arrest him and put him
in a lineup I'd be sure.
MEATES
Our understanding is that his name
is Bobby O'Brien - worked here
before going on pension. Any idea
where I can find him?
BIG SALLY
Each year we carry millions of
passengers and over two hundred
thousand autos - but naturally the
FBI already knows that.
MEATES
You'd be surprised what we know.
He waves the photo in Big Sally's face.

4.
MEATES (CONT’D)
Bobby O'Brien? I expect your
cooperation.
Big Sally takes the photo and pretends to study it closer.
BIG SALLY
Let's see what we can find out.
INT. RAILWAY HQ. - RECEPTION AREA - DAY
Francois stands as Big Sally struts in with Meates.
BIG SALLY
Where is Bobby O'Brien?
FRANCOIS
Train arrives tomorrow, zero-eight
hundred hours.
Francois glides with grace and elegance to inspect the photo

Big Sally holds. He taps the picture with a manicured nail.
FRANCOIS (CONT’D)
Gorgeous suit n'est-ce pas?
MEATES
I thought he was on pension?
FRANCOIS
We downsized too much and Big Sal
brought him and his brother Rocket
back on a one year contract. You
might say our reach exceeded our
grasp.
Francois reaches out and removes a piece of lint from Meates’

jacket. The Agent retreats a step.
BIG SALLY
Getting him to quit would be good.
MEATES
You've completely lost me.
FRANCOIS
Bobby and Rocket won the Power Ball
lottery. You know, those tiny
little numbered balls that jump and
dance around in that little cage?
5.
BIG SALLY
They upset the balance needed to
run an effective train operation.
MEATES
Why don't you just fire them?
BIG SALLY
They'd love me to. That would be
doing them a favor - I'm not in the
favor business. They've been a
pain in the ass for years. They'll
live up to their end of the bargain
or they can quit - then I’ll sue
for breech of contract.
MEATES
How much they win?
FRANCOIS
Two hundred and two million.
MEATES
Nice chunk of change.
BIG SALLY
They can't spend it fast enough.
Francois taps Meates’ arm and postures his suit.
FRANCOIS
Hugo Boss - don’t you love the cut?
Meates has no interest in Francois nor his apparel.
BIG SALLY
Francois, let Bobby know the FBI
will be paying him a visit.
MEATES
Don't, it's better we just show up.
FRANCOIS
What kind of trouble is he in?
MEATES
(ignoring)
What's he do here?
BIG SALLY
On-Board Train Supervisor.
MEATES
How do I find him?
6.
Francois selects an envelope stamped TRAINEE INFORMATION.
FRANCOIS
Directions. Where we keep the
coaches and those big engines.
(beat)
I licked this envelope myself.
Meates carefully takes the envelope by its edge.
MEATES
This operation is very sensitive,
I’ll expect you to keep it to
yourselves. We'll be in touch.
Meates leaves. Francois peeks into the hallway to be sure.
BIG SALLY
Like I would ever call the FBI.
FRANCOIS
Heavens. That suit, so pedestrian.
BIG SALLY
Maybe I'll tell Bobby the IRS are
after him.
FRANCOIS
Now now sir, you're a bigger man
than that.
Francois primps and preens in the mirror.
BIG SALLY
I forget, why did I hire you again?
Big Sally doesn't wait for a response. He slams his office

door behind him.
EXT. TRAIN STATION (VIRGINIA) - DAY
Chaotic but organized. REDCAPS carry luggage. PASSENGERS

mingle. Autos are driven to a ramp. A small locomotive
shunts auto carriers in the background.
A limousine glides to a stop. The driver steps lively to

open the door. Bobby and Rocket hop out wearing railway
uniforms carrying their suits and books.
ROCKET
Nice ride amigo. You look like an
Armani kind of guy. Here ya go pal.
7.
The Driver checks out the suit within the garment bag.
DRIVER
Can't never have enough good
threads. Thanks. You boys are
okay. Have a safe trip to Florida.
Bobby and Rocket head toward the station.
BOBBY
You cracked? Two thousand dollar
suit? Wouldn't catch me giving
mine away.
EXT. TRAIN - RURAL AREA - DAY
The train photographed for Big Sally's office winds along the
tracks. The coaches rock to and fro. Exhaust spirals from
the engine's smokestack.
INT. TRAIN - DINING COACH - DAY - TRAVELING
MIKEY and BRAD, eight, are BLASTING toy guns. PASSENGERS are
not amused. Attendant SHIRLEY keys a walkie talkie.
SHIRLEY
Rocket? You there? I need help.
INT. TRAIN - LOCOMOTIVE - DAY - TRAVELING
Engineers TED and DAVE occupy the large seats. Scenery

flashes past the windows. Rocket speaks into the radio.
ROCKET
What's the problem Shirley?
INT. TRAIN - CUSTOM COACH - DAY - TRAVELING
CHER stares from the monitor. Bobby studies her. MUSIC

begins. Bobby holds a Karaoke microphone. Suddenly the
train lurches. He is tossed off balance onto the floor.
INT. TRAIN - DINING COACH - DAY - TRAVELING
Shirley comforts a pregnant MOTHER who is near tears. The

GUNFIRE from the errant kids is deafening. Rocket walks up
with two striped railway hats hidden behind his back.
8.
ROCKET
Are Mikey and Brad here?
Rocket’s statement results in a cease-fire. He now has the

gunslinger’s undivided attention. Rocket offers the hats.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
The engineer needs someone to keep
an eye out for other trains.
The Boys don't have to be told twice. They grab the hats and
sit beside the window.
MIKEY
This is my side, you go over there.
Bradley crosses the aisle. Rocket winks at the Mother.
Bobby straightens a collection of bobbing head sports figures

nodding agreement beside a wall of signed hockey sticks. The
Cher book sits on a desk. All is well.
INT. RAILWAY HQ. - TRAINING ROOM - DAY
Ten railway TRAINEES examine railroad posters. Uniforms are

pressed - safety boots shine.
FRANCOIS
Pride of appearance. Please,
everyone have a seat.
The Trainees promptly sit. Francois methodically inspects

the Students. He leans close to LYLE’S nose ring.
LYLE
What?
FRANCOIS
Qu'est-ce que c'est? A crisis.
LYLE
I have rights you know.
FRANCOIS
Silly boy, of course. Why don't
you just sit up there with me? I
bet your inner motivation is at
odds with your outward presentation
to the world.
9.
Lyle is up and out the door in a flash nearly bowling over

Big Sally standing in the doorway. Francois spots his boss.
FRANCOIS (CONT’D)
Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Salvatore
Serra, Chief Superintendent, the
big cheese, top dog, grand patron..
BIG SALLY
Francois. Enough.
(beat)
Welcome aboard. Trains. Who in
their right mind doesn’t love a
train? As in life, with the right
foundation in place, you can't go
too far wrong. Francois will be
taking you to the station so you
can gain some invaluable insight
into techniques I’ve developed.
JESSICA SAVAGE enters. Heads turn, eyes riveted. Her look

suggests someone more suited to modelling than railroading.
FRANCOIS
Oui Cherie?
JESSICA
Sorry, got lost. Not from around
here.
Francois gives her the once over.
FRANCOIS
I applaud your choice. Ralph
Lauren, isn't it?
Big Sally seizes the moment.
BIG SALLY
Think of us as family here...
(eyes Francois)
Well, most of us. We were
discussing challenges and rewards.
So you see it may have been a
challenge finding us, but now that
you're here...
JESSICA
Every day is a challenge.
BIG SALLY
Ain’t that the truth. Yes, well,
Francois here will get you set up
with a proper uniform.
(MORE)
10.
BIG SALLY (CONT'D)
I must prepare for an important
meeting. Francois?
Big Sally wastes little time departing.
FRANCOIS
(to Jessica)
That is the most divine ensemble.
Simply fabulous. Haute couture.
Cher looks down from posters as Rocket enters. Bobby closes

his Cher book and places a ruler and exactor knife beside it.
ROCKET
Girl in the first coach worried
about getting home. Told her you'd
look after her, she's excited about
seeing your... Hummer.
BOBBY
Girl? I can just imagine.
Rocket displays his cell.
ROCKET
Francois sent a text message. Big
Sally hired all the new trainees
and the FBI wants to talk to you.
BOBBY
I knew he’d hire more. Our guys
finally get some overtime and he
starts his trainee crap again.
ROCKET
Let him keep hiring - we'll see how
many finish the course. Where’s
the new orientation material?
BOBBY
My garage. I'll stop at the house
and pick it up when I take your new
girl home.
(fishes into pocket)
I forgot... a spare key.
Bobby hands him two keys.
ROCKET
Why do you do that?
11.
BOBBY
What?
ROCKET
I need one, you get two. Always
doubling up on everything.
BOBBY
What if you lose one? This way you
have a back-up, just in case.
ROCKET
What, like I can’t just borrow one
from June. Jeeze, she practically
lives there. You’re not...
BOBBY
Hey, don’t even go there.
Rocket indicates all the Cher posters.
ROCKET
Better hope Cher never rides this
train, she'll think you're psycho.
BOBBY
Don't even go there either. Say
you're sorry.
Rocket goes to pick up the Cher book. Bobby stops him.
BOBBY (CONT’D)
Not unless you say you’re sorry.
Rocket pretends to be busy with his uniform.
BOBBY (CONT’D)
Say you're sorry.
ROCKET
Get a grip, Bobby. Show me.
He opens the cover. Rocket glances inside.
BOBBY
What do you think?
ROCKET
I think you're nuts, but hey...
Bobby closes the book annoyed.
BOBBY
What's with the FBI?
12.
ROCKET
Probably just another one of Big
Sally’s shenanigans.
EXT. BLUE ANGEL MOTEL - DAY
The tired motor lodge has seen better days. Dirty glass
reflects an outdoor soda machine, ice machine and swimming
pool. A sign advertises a REPTILE ATTRACTION close by.
INT. BLUE ANGEL MOTEL - ROOM - DAY
Meates sits with BURNS, FRYE and BLUE. He holds Bobby’s

photo. They all wear dark suits, thin ties. Displayed are
railway charts and diagrams next to the TRAINEE envelope.
MEATES
We don't want this to be more
complicated than need be.
BURNS
Each train carries three hundred
autos, lots of drug hiding spots.
Beats getting busted by a random
vehicle check on the interstate.
BLUE
That’s a lot of airbags. Thousand
bucks each on the black market.
MEATES
(waves photo)
Time to meet Mr. O'Brien. We’ll
see where that takes us.
EXT. TRAIN STATION (FLORIDA) - DAY
The train appears. STAFF is positioned on the platform.

Meates negotiates the CROWD and saddles up to a REDCAP.
MEATES
Where would Bobby O'Brien get off?
REDCAP
(points)
Last coach on the train.
Meates hustles off down the platform. The train SQUEALS to a

stop. Coach doors open. PASSENGERS detrain.
13.
Bobby jumps from the first coach and hightails it into the
parking lot carrying his Cher book.
Francois is animated as he leads Jessica and the other

Trainees alongside the train.
Rocket climbs down off the last coach. Meates arrives short
of breath - flashing his badge.
MEATES
Bobby O’Brien? FBI.
ROCKET
He's gone. I'm his representative.
Bobby can't answer any questions
until he takes into account my
position - he can't take that into
account until I discuss his
position - we can't discuss that
until we establish your position -
our positions should be perfectly
clear... shouldn't they?
Meates stares hard. In the background Bobby helps an OLD

LADY into a black Hummer using a stepping box from the train.
He climbs in and peels away.
MEATES
Very cute. We'll meet again.
Meates retreats knocking Francois slightly off centre as he

stalks past. Francois stops his Trainees short allowing for
some privacy with Rocket.
FRANCOIS
Sacré bleu. What a beast. A
dangerous liaison perhaps?
ROCKET
Remind me not to pee my pants.
Where's Big Sally?
FRANCOIS
Not sure. All I could see in his
day book was - be prepared.
Rocket surveys the Trainees. Francois offers a list of

their names.
ROCKET
Shame wasting all that money on new
uniforms.
14.
FRANCOIS
I know, I know, it's a dirty job
but someone has to do it.
ROCKET
Get them set up in the storage
room. Bobby will be back shortly.
FRANCOIS
You mean the training room?
ROCKET
Francois...
FRANCOIS
Right. Storage room.
Rocket glances at Jessica.
ROCKET
Who's the looker?
FRANCOIS
Mademoiselle Savage, Jessica D.
ROCKET
(checks list)
Savage. I like that in a woman.
Don't see her name here.
FRANCOIS
I think she fell from heaven. But
don’t quote me on that, I may be
mistaken.
Rocket climbs onto the vestibule and grabs Bobby's garment

bag. He hands it to Francois who peeks inside.
ROCKET
A little something from Bobby.
FRANCOIS
Oh my goodness, Armani. Exquisite.
Merci beaucoup.
Francois goes to kiss Rocket on the cheek.
ROCKET
No no Francois, save that for
Bobby.
Rocket watches Jessica as Francois leads the Trainees away.

15.
INT. TRAIN STATION - STORAGE ROOM - DAY
The Trainees check out dilapidated railway signs and dusty

timetables laying amongst mops and cleaning supplies. Bobby
and Rocket carry in a stack of poster sized cardboard signs.
BOBBY
Hello, I’m Bobby. Rocket and I are
here to help with your orientation.
Some sit on rickety old chairs. Most stand.
BOBBY (CONT’D)
We'll start with a brief overview.
ROCKET
Bobby and I worked here for twenty
years until the Rape program.
Bobby holds up a sign. RAPE: RETIRE AGED PERSONNEL EARLY.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
Raped workers were given a chance
to look for jobs elsewhere. While
Big Sally was raping us we were
allowed to review employee records,
known as the Screw program.
Bobby's new sign. SCREW: SURVEY CAPABLE RAILWAY WORKERS.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
Those of us who were unhappy about
being Raped or Screwed could file
an appeal. Known as the Shaft.
He displays SHAFT: STUDY BY HIGHER AUTHORITY FOR TERMINATION.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
This policy allowed us to be Raped
once, Screwed twice, but Shafted as
often as Big Sally felt necessary.
The Trainees take stock of themselves and their environment.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
Word has it you new employees will
be looked after with Specialized
High Intensity Training.
Bobby's new sign reads SHIT. Next to this he places an

enlarged photo of Big Sally wearing a loud checkered jacket
and goofy grin. Rocket points to Big Sally’s picture.
16.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
Your boss takes pride in the amount
of Shit you receive. Anyone who
feels that he, or she, has had
enough Shit, should stay clear of
Big Sally.
BOBBY
Big Sally is specially trained to
hand out more Shit than you’ll ever
want to handle.
A train enters a tunnel. Big Sally operates the model

trains. Francois sashays inside - arms wide.
FRANCOIS
The Cubs and their Akela.
AKELA leads in a dozen CUBS. They are mesmerized by the tiny

trains rolling beside roadways and through villages.
AKELA
Salvatore I can't thank you enough.
Doesn't that say it all?
The Cubs spread out with glee and excitement. Big Sally
spots five year old REBECCA amongst the pack.
BIG SALLY
What’s your name dear?
REBECCA
Rebecca.
CUB
My mom couldn’t get a sitter.
BIG SALLY
(ignoring)
Sweetheart, stand right up front so
you can see everything. Someday
you might marry a railroad man,
you'll want to know everything so
you can tell him what to do.
He gently ushers her to the front of the pack.

17.
BIG SALLY (CONT’D)

(to group)
Now then, you've all seen trains
when riding in the car with your
dad, but first and foremost, let me
say one thing... always stay alert.
Big Sally CRUSHES a soda can with his foot. The Cubs are
startled. He displays the flattened battered remnant.

This is what your car will look
like if a train hits it. Always,
always pay attention. You never
know when a train is coming down
the tracks at you.
Big Sally takes his position behind the train controls.

Who wants the first turn?
Tiny arms signal in anticipation. He doesn't pick the girl.
EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY
Bobby and Rocket load the orientation signs into the Hummer.
The vanity plate reads 05 20 46. Jessica approaches.
JESSICA
You boys have an interesting
approach to orientation.
ROCKET
We'll take that as a compliment.
JESSICA
I noticed quite a bit missing from
your little... performance. Length
of trip, how many stops. I could
probably think of a dozen other
gems of wisdom that might be worth
sharing.
ROCKET
We all need a little mystery in our
lives.
JESSICA
I haven't asked the big question.
18.
ROCKET
The answer is probably yes but ask
it anyway.
JESSICA
How did you pick those six winning
lottery numbers - just luck or you
have a system?
Bobby shows Jessica a photo of Cher on his cell.
BOBBY
Cher.
Rocket shoots him a look.
JESSICA
You're friends of Cher?
ROCKET
Place is crawling with FBI. We
wouldn't want to get busted by some
obscure law, would we?
JESSICA
FBI? What's that about?
ROCKET
Top secret, very...
JESSICA
Wait, don't tell me. Very hush
hush, strictly on a ‘need to know’
basis. You could tell me, but then
you'd have to kill me. In fact,
it's so top secret they don't even
know why they're here. Do I get
the picture?
ROCKET
Not every day I meet a girl with
beauty and brains.
JESSICA
So, you going to tell me or not?
Rocket moves close as if involved in a conspiracy.
ROCKET
Illegal aliens. Just a guess.
JESSICA
How many agents?
19.
BOBBY
He saw one today already.
A white van stops nearby and TOOTS its horn. Jessica waves.
JESSICA
My aunt, we'll talk later. Oh, Cher
was fabulous on Broadway.
They watch Jessica jog over to the van occupied by TWO ADULTS
obscured behind the windshield.
ROCKET
Beautiful, bright, cheerful, chic,
brazen yet somewhat mysterious.
BOBBY
She was probably two years old when
Cher was on Broadway.
ROCKET
So what’s your point? Maybe she
has a good memory.
BOBBY
Speaking of memory, don't you think
you pay out enough in alimony
already, or did you forget?
Big Sally works with diligence and enthusiasm on the model

train tracks as Francois floats in.
FRANCOIS
Do they call you Big Sal because of
why I think they do?
BIG SALLY
Best leave the thinking to me. Any
word on Bobby or the FBI?
FRANCOIS
All is quiet.
BIG SALLY
Have the High-Railer gassed up and
ready to go. We'll slip over to
the station and pay a little visit.
May have to kick some ass.
FRANCOIS
I love it when you talk tough sir.
20.
BIG SALLY
That's all. Don't let the door hit
your ass on the way out, you might
like it.
INT. BLUE ANGEL MOTEL - DINER - DAY
Meates sits isolated from the other CUSTOMERS. He sips his

tea as Blue slides into the booth opposite him.
BLUE
Burns and Frye report in yet?
MEATES
Nope. These brothers are a tad
slippery. We’ll just keep shaking
the trees, who knows what will fall
out? Run a check on that girl too.
BLUE
She’s prime beef, no question.
MEATES
Probably a gold digger.
EXT. BOBBY’S HOME - NIGHT
The Hummer meets an oncoming sedan before turning into the

drive of a posh home. Strategic lighting accents manicured
lawn, shrubs and dazzling fountain. Bobby and Rocket exit.
ROCKET
I need to pick up the truck.
BOBBY
I'll drop you off tomorrow before I
pick up a couple of things.
ROCKET
See, that’s what I said earlier,
it’s always a couple? Is this
turning into an obsession or what?
Bobby hits a remote. The foyer lights reveal the door ajar.
INT. BOBBY’S HOME - NIGHT
Bobby and Rocket enter cautiously. The professional decor

looks like it was hit by a hurricane.
21.
ROCKET
Stop in for a quickie with Grandma?
Bobby rushes through the debris. He lifts a rug and dials

the combination of the hidden safe. He relaxes when he sees
the minted coins, stamp collections and Cher book.
Rocket looks into the next room. An elaborate model train

set has been reduced to disjointed pieces.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
You think Big Sally’s behind this?
EXT. JEWELRY STORE - DAY
The window reads ROLEX - CARTIER - FABERGE. Jessica loiters

near Bobby’s Hummer as an identical one roars up. The vanity
plate reads 35 25 36. Rocket spots Jessica as he climbs out.
ROCKET
Savage, what's going on?
JESSICA
Mr. O'Brien. Just a little
shopping.
ROCKET
Please, call me Rocket.
Bobby exits carrying his Cher book and a toaster sized

package. Burns and Frye observe discretely from a sedan.
BOBBY
Jessica, nice to see you. What
brings you down here?
JESSICA
Heard the streets were paved with
Hummers.
ROCKET
She's a ‘shop 'till you drop’ kind
of girl.
Bobby places his items into his vehicle.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
So you like these Hummers?
JESSICA
I've often thought how everyone
needs a personal assault vehicle.
22.
ROCKET
You've seen Bobby drive before.
BOBBY
We don't let Rocket out after dark.
Scares the neighborhood children.
ROCKET
I just had an epiphany.
JESSICA
Do I even want to know?
BOBBY
Probably not, but don't worry, he
only uses one big word a day.
Frye snaps photos from his vehicle.
INT. HOOTERS - DAY
Bobby, Rocket and Jessica sit amongst a beehive of activity

as CUSTOMERS enjoy their food. Rocket plays down familiarity
shown by busty female STAFF passing by.
JESSICA
Come here for the food, right?
ROCKET
Ribs and wings are the best.
That’s why I bought the place.
Rocket looks across the room at buxom waitress JACKIE.
JESSICA
What's with you guys and Big Sally?
Have anything to do with the FBI?
ROCKET
Bobby and Big Sally were in a model
railway contest, Bobby took first
prize. We figured he had someone
trash his train set. Jealous.
JESSICA
Railroading is serious business.
BOBBY
Our dad was an engineer back in the
day. Started at the same time as
Big Sally.
(MORE)
23.
BOBBY (CONT'D)
The engineer’s position is what Big
Sally really wanted, but the misfit
couldn't learn how to drive a
train.
ROCKET
Didn't have any trouble learning
how to drive us crazy though.
BOBBY
Up in his office fantasizing. No
clue how every trip is different.
(sips beer)
You'll find that railroaders stick
together.
ROCKET
Then we stick it to Big Sally.
BOBBY
Our job looks easy, but behind it
all we're constantly evaluating and
modifying so things run smoothly.
Jackie spots Rocket and smiles herself over to him.
JACKIE
How are my favorite boys today?
Rocket slips her a train ticket folder.
ROCKET
As promised.
She nuzzles him with her ample charms.
JACKIE
Come with me Rocket.
Jessica gives Rocket a look as he goes to follow Jackie.
ROCKET
What? Two free train tickets.
Rocket and Jackie head off into the back.
BOBBY
Ignore him, he's never learned that
free and no cost are not the same.
JESSICA
If you only knew you were going to
win the lottery, you wouldn’t be
stuck in your service contract.
24.
BOBBY
We signed back on after we won. We
put up with Big Sally for twenty
years before we received our
severance package. Guy was on us
over the most petty stuff - shoes
shines properly, uniforms pressed,
wearing our hats crooked - handing
out one and two day suspensions
like candy. There’s a principle at
stake.
JESSICA
Principle?
BOBBY
Big Sally likes to say that if you
want to play with the bull you’ll
get the horn. We’ll see. Payback
is a bitch.
JESSICA
Sounds a tad extreme. I’d probably
think of other things to occupy my
time.
BOBBY
Rocket talked me into it. He does
have that je ne sais quoi . But on
the bright side, I have quite a
list of items developed and I have
to admit, the planning is fun.
JESSICA
What will you do when it’s over?
BOBBY
Move to the Caribbean. No stress.
Maybe collect coconut shells.
(beat)
How about you? Were are you from?
JESSICA
Grew up around Washington when I
wasn't shipped off to boarding
schools. Great experience in some
ways, not so in others. You learn
pretty fast that you only have
yourself to rely on.
BOBBY
My dad was always working when we
were kids - pretty much had to
learn the same thing.
25.
JESSICA
What about your mom?
BOBBY
She got tired of waiting around for
dad to get home and found greener
pastures elsewhere. Had a plan I
guess, didn't include Rocket or me.
Dead for all I know.
JESSICA
I'm sorry, I didn't mean to pry.
He nods to COLLEGE BOYS with their BUDDY in a wheelchair.
BOBBY
You see something like that and you
realize how lucky you are.
JESSICA
Some weaknesses are plain to see
but the most disturbing ones are
buried deep inside.
EXT. HOOTERS - PARKING LOT - DAY
Burns and Frye watch Bobby and Jessica walk past their sedan
to Jessica’s van. Rocket runs up smiling like a kid in a
candy store.
BOBBY
We don't want to know.
ROCKET
So Savage, you all settled in?
JESSICA
Staying with my aunt, helping out.
ROCKET
Doing?
Bobby notices Jessica's quick look at a city bus stopped on

the street displaying an ad for DRAMAMINE.
JESSICA
Drama. She teaches drama.
ROCKET
I should audition.
26.
JESSICA
She’s in the middle of a production
now, you missed the auditions.
Anyhow, thanks for the eats, I have
to get her van back.
She climbs inside the van and leans out the window.
JESSICA (CONT’D)
You boys stay out of trouble.
Jessica drives off leaving Rocket absorbed. Bobby jumps into

his Hummer and zooms off. Jackie bounces up waving the bill.
JACKIE
Bobby left the bill. Where is he?
ROCKET
Let's have a look.
Rocket climbs into his Hummer and activates a GPS monitor. A

small dot blips across the screen's grid.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
Later Jackie. Put the bill on my
tab darling.
Rocket pulls from his spot. Burns and Frye start to move.
He steers his Hummer up over the abutment, across the grass
and onto a side street. The sedan cannot follow.
EXT. RAILWAY HQ. - SPUR TRACK - EVENING
Big Sally and Francois approach a rusted truck sitting on the

tracks. It’s been retrofitted with wheels allowing travel on
both road and rail. HIGH RAILER is printed on its door.
BIG SALLY
Nothing like riding the rails.
Big Sally squeezes inside. He wears a loud checkered jacket.

Francois shakes his head.
FRANCOIS
Going to be another bad hair day.
EXT. CHURCH RECTORY - EVENING
Jessica’s van sits beside the entrance. Bobby surveys the

scene from the curb. Rocket wheels up behind. He climbs out
and hustles over to Bobby’s open window.
27.
ROCKET
What’s the deal?
BOBBY
Something's not right.
ROCKET
Have something against nice God
fearing girls?
BOBBY
She doesn't strike me as having
much fear of anything.
(beat)
Let’s have a look.
They proceed toward a lit basement window.
INT. BLUE ANGEL MOTEL - BAR - EVENING
Burns and Frye watch Meates and Blue shoot a game of pool.
FRYE
One flew out of the lot like he was
possessed and the brother climbs
the curb like he owns the place.
MEATES
You think they made you?
FRYE
Not a chance.
MEATES
Time's running out. It may go down
on the train.
BLUE
It has two scheduled stops. First
one shortly after leaving and the
second one around midnight.
MEATES
Think that station is still open?
INT. HIGH RAILER - EVENING - TRAVELING
Big Sally and Francois roll along the tracks. Francois' hair
blows wildly in the wind.
28.
BIG SALLY
I cannot believe that all but one
of those trainees quit. What's
wrong with these kids today? They
talk about unemployment rates.
FRANCOIS
You need a different designer. Who
would want to wear those uniforms?
Bobby and Rocket peek into the basement window.
INT. CHURCH RECTORY - EVENING
MONICA, fifties, African American, no nonsense hair, work

boots. She and Jessica inspect railway photos. Lounging
close are BIKER, BALDY and LEFTY studying railway schematics.
Bobby and Rocket hustle back to their Hummers.
ROCKET
You’re losing it. No way. It's
only because I'm your brother I
know you weren't adopted.
BOBBY
You saw them, all that railway
stuff. That’s why the FBI is here.
ROCKET
No way, I don't believe it, there's
some other explanation. Savage is
way too cute to be mixed up in
anything so nefarious.
BOBBY
Nefarious? Earlier it was
epiphany. You're not supposed to
use more than one big word a day.
ROCKET
She's not the dishonest type.
BOBBY
Thinking with the wrong head, as
per the usual?
29.
INT. CONDO - NIGHT
Concierge SANTIAGO looks up from his kiosk. Rocket and Bobby

shuffle into the elegant foyer. Bobby holds his Cher book.
SANTIAGO
Gentlemen. The painting of your
suite is completed. Clothier
dropped off some suits, I hung them
in your closet. The FBI were here.
ROCKET
Thanks Santiago. How’d they look?
SANTIAGO
Quite frankly sir, they looked
perturbed. I told them they
couldn't go up without a warrant.
ROCKET
I meant the suits, Santiago.
SANTIAGO
If I may be so bold as to say, they
are the most god awful excuse from
a clothier I've ever seen.
Rocket winks, slipping a few dollars into Santiago's pocket.
INT. ROCKET’S PENTHOUSE - NIGHT
The suite screams style and taste. Rocket flips a switch.

Draperies open revealing a postcard view of city and ocean.
Bobby relaxes on a couch peering into his Cher book.
ROCKET
You can look into that all day, it
doesn't compare to the real thing.
(beat)
See if anything's going on.
Rocket opens the closet. An array of checkered jackets hang

in a row. Bobby looks into a telescope mounted on a tripod.
BOBBY
Big Sally's High-Railer.
A loud BEEP. The boys check their cell phones.
ROCKET
Mine. It’s Francois.
Rocket looks into the telescope.

30.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
Grab some cigars.
EXT. TRAIN STATION - NIGHT
The High-Railer is on the tracks. Big Sally's cigar pointing

is indicative of his displeasure with YARDMASTER GORDON.
Bobby and Rocket appear from the darkness dressed identically

to Big Sally wearing loud checkered coats and white shoes.
They also have cigars. Bobby carries his Cher book.
BIG SALLY
What the hell is this?
ROCKET/BOBBY
(mimics in unison)
BIG SALLY
You two, in my office, tomorrow,
ten hundred hours.
He stalks off towards the High Railer. Francois climbs off

the last coach and approaches. He strokes Bobby’s suit.
FRANCOIS
Give me the name of your tailor.
BOBBY
Why’s that?
FRANCOIS
So I never call him by mistake.
Francois points to the last coach as he tags after Big Sally.
FRANCOIS (CONT’D)
I cleaned up best I could.
INT. TRAIN - CUSTOM COACH - NIGHT
Bobby and Rocket stand in shock. Cher looks out from crooked
posters. Every nook and cranny ransacked. Gordon steps in.
GORDON
Big Sal isn’t a happy camper. He
said he didn't give permission to
modify this coach.
BOBBY
When did you get here?
31.
GORDON
Just before you guys. Francois was
over in the office and Big Sal was
snooping around.
Through the window Meates can be seen outside.
ROCKET
Here’s that moron from the FBI.
Maybe we can get him a real job?
Bobby picks up broken memorabilia as Meates strides in. He

flashes Gordon his badge, pointing to the door. Gordon exits.
MEATES
Bobby O'Brien, I was beginning to
think you were a ghost.
Rocket helps Bobby pick up the debris.
MEATES (CONT’D)
Pretty slick operation this train
business, though right now things
are looking a little dicey.
(points)
Nice suits, you fellows bucking for
a promotion?
BOBBY
You are here for what exactly?
MEATES
We’re exploring certain, shall I
say, entities. We understand
concerns about any impact on staff
and passengers so we'll try to keep
a low profile.
ROCKET
This a mafia thing?
MEATES
I'm not at liberty to discuss
specifics. Less said the better
for everyone.
Meates looks into the adjoining bedroom/bathroom area at the

rear of the coach.
MEATES (CONT’D)
Any way to get from here into those
covered auto carriers once the
train is all coupled together?
32.
BOBBY
Impossible.
MEATES
I may put my men inside them. You
boys have a problem with that?
They aren't interested in Meates or his men's travel

arrangements.
MEATES (CONT’D)
I'll let you know if I need
anything else. Your boss indicated
you'll be the model of cooperation.
ROCKET
Big Sally is our hero.
Meates goes to pick up the Cher book. Bobby beats him to it,
clutching onto it as if were the Holy Grail itself.
MEATES
What's with the Cher stuff?
BOBBY
You have any hobbies?
Meates shrugs him off studying Cher’s poster sized navel.
BOBBY (CONT’D)
If you studied her career you'd
know what an inspiration her life
has been.
MEATES
She could inspire me any day.
Rocket subtly moves between Bobby and Meates.
ROCKET
So then, anything else be sure to
let us know.
MEATES
Count on it.
Bobby stares daggers as Meates leaves.
BOBBY
Think his mother had any children
that lived?
33.
EXT. TRAIN STATION - NIGHT
Meates climbs into a sedan. Blue drives them off. Monica

watches, barely discernible in the station’s shadow.
EXT. PET STORE - DAY
Bobby carries a covered bird cage. Rocket opens the storage

compartment of the Hummer.
BOBBY
Don't you get tired of this?
ROCKET
Tired? If it got any better I
couldn’t stand it.
BOBBY
Life isn't really better with all
this money. Just different.
ROCKET
Don't tell anybody else that or
they'll know your crazy. I’m rich
and I’ve been poor. Rich is
better. You don’t think Cher
wouldn’t agree? Anyhow, think of
the bright side, by the time we
finish with Big Sally, he won't be
our boss anymore. Guaranteed.
He secures the cage.
INT. HUMMER - DAY - TRAVELING
Rocket looks back towards the bird cage as Bobby drives.
ROCKET
Why didn't you tell him?
BOBBY
Who? What?
ROCKET
Hello? Last night? That FBI guy?
Savage and her friends?
BOBBY
He's an ignorant civil servant.
Didn't seem too upset about our
coach getting trashed. Why do I
care about his problems?
34.
ROCKET
Maybe you kind of like our little
Savage?
BOBBY
Maybe we're jumping the gun. Maybe
we head over there later and pay
them a visit. Maybe we see what
they have to say?
ROCKET
Maybe it'll look kind of funny us
just showing up?
BOBBY
Maybe we'll think of something?
Rocket points to the cage.
ROCKET
You really think this will work?
BOBBY
All that has to be said is...
Bobby leans to Rocket uttering an inaudible whisper.
ROCKET
What?
BOBBY
As soon as he hears...
He whispers again.
ROCKET
What's with you?
Bobby points back to the bird cage.
BOBBY
Shhh. He's listening you know.
INT. RAILWAY HQ. - RECEPTION AREA - DAY
Francois inspects his image in the mirror. He flicks an

errant bird feather from his lapel. It floats upward then
gently falls as Big Sally lumbers in from the hallway.
BIG SALLY
Any word yet?
Francois points. The clock reads 0950.

35.

When they get here send them in.
He opens his office door and freezes in his tracks.

INT. RAILWAY HQ. - BIG SALLY’S OFFICE - DAY
Sitting proudly inside its cage is an exotic TOUCAN BIRD.

Big Sally advances slowly as Francois looks on.
BIG SALLY
Do I even want to ask?
FRANCOIS
It was outside the door when I
arrived. There is a card, on your
desk. No name, but it is perfume
scented. Par excellence.
He smells the card and stands a little taller. Francois

quietly leaves. Big Sally looks closely at the bird.
BIG SALLY
Polly want a cracker?
The bird turns his head, ruffles its feathers and drops a big
poop onto the floor of the cage.
Bobby and Rocket burst in - bundles of energy. They grab

chairs and sit opposite Big Sally's desk.

Ready to proceed with this
investigation?
TOUCAN BIRD
Loser!
Big Sally spins his chair to look at the bird. Rocket and
Bobby exchange seats. Big Sally rotates back toward the
boys. Something isn't right - he's not sure what.
BIG SALLY
Modifying a coach is a violation...
ROCKET
(interrupts)
Why are we here?
36.
BIG SALLY
Why do you think? An investigation.
TOUCAN BIRD
Loser!
Big Sally wheels around and stares down the bird. Bobby and
Rocket change seats again. He twists back to the boys - he
knows there is something wrong, but is still dumbfounded.
BIG SALLY
Now then...
The intercom BUZZES. Big Sally depresses the button.

Yes, what is it?
FRANCOIS (V.O.)
Are you done your... investigation?
TOUCAN BIRD
Loser!
Big Sally swings back to the cage - nearly falling. Rocket

scrapes his chair - Big Sally gyrates instantly towards the
boys - they haven't moved.
BIG SALLY
This... inquiry, will proceed. You
two know anything about this bird?
BOBBY
Bird?
BIG SALLY
Yes bird. You deaf? This budgie
have anything to do with you?
BOBBY
It doesn't look like a budgie.
BIG SALLY
Whatever, what do you know about
it?
ROCKET
I know your questions are beyond
the scope of this inquisition, this
cross examination, this grilling,
this interrogation, this... this...
37.
BIG SALLY
(leaps to his feet)
God dammit. It's an investigation.
TOUCAN BIRD
Loser!
Big Sally lunges back - grabs the cage - raises it high into
the air. The bird poops on Big Sally's suit. Bobby and
Rocket change chairs again.
INT. UNIFORM DEPOT - DAY
A clothing ‘Judy’ stands with a tape measure draped over its

shoulder. Fit and stylish JUNE, sixties, is pinning
Jessica’s pant cuffs above her safety boots.
JUNE
Safety toed work boots aren't very
flattering, are they dear?
JESSICA
Oh well, nothing I haven't had to
get used to before.
(turns sideways)
I suppose you've seen it all,
working here so many years?
JUNE
Fitted every shape and size there
is. No job is too small or too
elaborate. Just ask if you need
anything. I love a challenge.
June stands back and observes her handiwork.
JUNE (CONT’D)
You're perfect. Not a thing more I
can do for you.
Bobby and Rocket saunter into the depot.
ROCKET
Savage, all dressed up and nowhere
to go?
JESSICA
Gentlemen. Nice to see you.
JUNE
Robert. Charles. How are my boys?
38.
ROCKET
Hi Ma. Why don't we go out and get
you a new Mercedes today?
BOBBY
Yeah Ma. You shouldn't be hanging
around here. Haven't you heard of
freedom fifty five?
June helps Jessica down from the stand. Bobby and Rocket
offer respectful kisses on June’s cheek.
JUNE
Enough now. You get those silly
suits I dropped off at that fancy
condo of yours?
ROCKET
They were the best. Big Sally
really thought we looked suave and
debonair, didn't he Bobby?
BOBBY
He surely did. Invited us to his
office for a little get together.
JUNE
You boys aren't annoying Salvatore
again, I hope.
ROCKET
Big Sally's a little hard on the
wildlife. I'm quite concerned
about his mental health.
JUNE
I can only imagine your anxiety.
(beat)
What did you bring me today?
BOBBY
Just an old uniform I need altered.
EXT. UNIFORM DEPOT - DAY
Bobby and Rocket help Jessica carry her uniforms to her van.
JESSICA
Charles? Your name is Charles?
ROCKET
Easy Savage, let's not get carried
away.
39.
JESSICA
How about you Bobby, you have a
nickname?
BOBBY
Bobby will do just fine, thank you.
ROCKET
Scoop. We called him Scoop when he
was little.
JESSICA
How cute is that? Where does that
come from?
ROCKET
He started collecting things as a
kid, scooped up everything in sight
for one collection or another.
Naturally, as he matured and his
collecting reached a level of
obsession, he became Scoophelius
Maximus.
BOBBY
Did you have a nickname?
Jessica gathers her hair and pulls it back off her forehead.
JESSICA
Savage princess.
BOBBY
Let me guess, stubborn and had to
have your own way.
JESSICA
I'd prefer to think I was tenacious
and persistent. Very focused.
ROCKET
Don't leave out the part where you
always got what you wanted.
JESSICA
If it was worth having.
Bobby gives Rocket a look as they load the van.
JESSICA (CONT’D)
That was sweet offering to buy June
a car.
40.
ROCKET
She doesn't want a Benz, I was just
teasing. We got her that little
beauty right there.
Rocket points to a shiny Corvette. Jessica's eyes widen.
BOBBY
We love her as if she were our mom.
ROCKET
We all go back a long way Savage.
JESSICA
How are things with Big Sally? He
going to fire you guys?
ROCKET
Not yet but we're working on it.
He didn't get to where he is today
by being some weak little sister.
We’re in for another Shit storm.
Didn’t we cover that Shit part in
your orientation?
JESSICA
Anything I can do to help?
BOBBY
Don't worry about us, the railroad
conditions you to expect the
unexpected.
Big Sally and Gordon's faces are reflected in the polished

side of the train as they stroll along the platform. WORKERS
busy themselves cleaning the windows and coaches.
BIG SALLY
Everyone knows there's no love lost
between me and the O’Brien boys.
GORDON
I pretty much stay clear of...
BIG SALLY
As Superintendent I have no choice
but to address the fact that this
coach was destroyed.
GORDON
Talk to the FBI, weren't they here?
41.
BIG SALLY
(ignoring)
A disgruntled employee? You must
know someone not impressed with
these millionaires still working.
They proceed to the station. Gordon holds the door.
INT. STATION - CREW ROOM - DAY
Big Sally and Gordon stand beside a counter under a bulletin

board. A train information monitor hangs from the ceiling.
BIG SALLY
What's with those Cher posters?
Doesn't anyone put up centerfolds
anymore?
GORDON
You must have heard how mental
Bobby is about Cher. Not a bit of
wonder he never got married.
BIG SALLY
Then there's Rocket who's been
married what, four or five times?
GORDON
I quit counting.
(beat)
What are you going to do?
BIG SALLY
I am not without resources.
He knocks on the washroom door. Francois steps out wearing a

railway uniform - sleeves too long - pants too short. He can
barely see out from under a hat three sizes too big.
FRANCOIS
This is not within my employment
guidelines. Those grandiose macho
days of oppression and dominance
are over.
BIG SALLY
Oh, stop it. Think of the bonus
you'll earn.
42.
INT. BOBBY’S HOME - DAY
Rocket shuts the exterior door and hurries into the great
room. Bobby sits motionless. In a chair opposite him sits
another Bobby identical in every way. Rocket approaches.
ROCKET
Hello. We have an appointment with
destiny.
No response.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
Fine. Have it your way.
He slaps Bobby across the face. Bobby jumps to his feet.
BOBBY
Hey, what's wrong with you? You
didn't have to do that.
ROCKET
Hey man, sorry. I couldn't tell
you guys apart.
Bobby picks up his life-sized twin dummy and holds it in

Rocket's face.
BOBBY
He look like he's breathing to you?
EXT. CHURCH RECTORY - DAY
Jessica leans from the doorway toward Bobby and Rocket.
JESSICA
Her studio was closed after that
last storm. She's just using this
space for now, don't expect much.
(lowers voice)
She wasn't too pleased you guys
wanting to ask questions about
dramatic presentations.
ROCKET
Artists.
INT. CHURCH RECTORY - DAY
Monica studies Biker, Baldy and Lefty. Each man clutches an

opened Bible. Railway training manuals sit on a table.
43.
BIKER
He guides me in the paths of
righteousness for His name's
sake...
BALDY
Even though I walk through the
valley of the shadow of death, I
feel no evil...
Monica spots Jessica, Bobby and Rocket watching at the door.
MONICA
Enough gentlemen.
(to Jessica)
Your new friends dear?
ROCKET
Greetings and salutations.
Interesting concept.
MONICA
Experimental theatre.
BOBBY
Performing at one of the local
dinner theatres?
MONICA
Wherever we can. How's Jessica
doing in the train industry?
ROCKET
Can't recall a trainee quite like
her.
Bobby moseys about subtly checking out the area.
JESSICA
Rocket wants tutoring in theatrical
delivery.
MONICA
You have a job already. Best leave
that sort of thing to those with
special training.
Frye hands Meates selected photos of Rocket and Bobby. He

pins them up on a corkboard.
44.
EXT. SATELLITE STORE - DAY
Big Sally has a spring to his walk as he exits the store and
climbs into the High Railer parked at the curb.
Monica and her Crew sit with Jessica and Bobby observing
Rocket standing tall in performance mode.
ROCKET
Take our boss, Big Sally. Hasn't
had a holiday since the last time
he went ice fishing. Know why
Savage?
JESSICA
Bet you're going to tell me.
ROCKET
Big Sally's out on the ice drilling
away, suddenly this voice bellows
out... No fish here.
(beat)
So he goes out a little further on
the ice and starts drilling again,
once more the voice roars... No
fish here.
(beat)
He's getting crazy by now, but,
goes out even further, he starts to
drilling when the voice yells
again... No fish here.
(beat)
Big Sally has totally lost it by
now. He looks up to the heavens
and screams, who is this? The
voice hollers back... This is the
arena manager.
Everyone offers tempered applause. Rocket ignores his cell

phone BEEPS - preferring the accolades.
MONICA
Good thing the FBI is in town and
not the joke police.
ROCKET
The FBI are a bunch of retards.
Imagine locking up your own guys
inside those auto carriers?
45.
MONICA
What are they looking for anyway?
ROCKET
Cubans maybe? Just a guess.
Burns, Frye and Blue observe Meates sorting photos of Bobby

holding the Cher book.
MEATES
Mr. Bobby seems infatuated with his
book. Perhaps what we need is
within those pages.
Meates tables three photos of Jessica with Bobby and Rocket.
MEATES (CONT’D)
And the girl?
BLUE
Old man's a heavy hitter in D.C.
Went to the best schools, majored
in philosophy. Then just dropped
off the face of the earth.
MEATES
Bet the family's proud, spent all
that dough and she bails, trying to
find herself or whatever it is kids
do these days.
Meates gathers up her photos.
MEATES (CONT’D)
Any chance she's DEA?
BLUE
You ever see anyone look like her
working for the government?
MEATES
You’re right. Forget about her.
I’m thinking of using the state
police, we'll see how it goes.
He puts the photos in a folder.

46.
A van parked beside the train has SATELLITE SERVICE printed

on the side. Gordon watches the TECHNICIAN walk along and
then climb down from the roof of the last coach.
TECHNICIAN
Who's this Salvatore? He some kind
of pervert or something?
Gordon turns his head and walks away ignoring him.
INT. HUMMER - DAY - TRAVELING
Rocket studies Bobby behind the wheel. Bobby keeps looking

into the mirror at the two large suitcases in the back.
Rocket grabs the wheel making sure they stay on the road.
ROCKET
Pay attention.
BOBBY
Just thinking about the twins.
ROCKET
They’ll be fine. Quit acting like
an old woman. I’m sure we’ll get a
chance to play with them later.
Bobby slaps Rocket’s hand off the wheel and resumes steering.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
So, what have you got to say?
BOBBY
About what?
ROCKET
The price of tea in China. What do
you think? Savage's bad boys.
BOBBY
Maybe they're legit. The acting is
bizarre, we can only hope they
don't quit their day jobs.
(listens to watch)
A black aunt? Possible I guess.
(beat)
Still doesn't explain the railroad
stuff.
47.
ROCKET
Savage was just getting some help.
Trainees don't know shit from
paint.
BOBBY
Who called when you were busy with
your standing ovation?
ROCKET
Francois, in a tizzy about
something.
BOBBY
Tizzy? One of your new words?
ROCKET
(ignoring)
Sent him back a text, told him you
had something to show him. You're
not mad are you? I figured you
wanted to surprise him. Didn’t
tell him there was head involved.
BOBBY
After all these years it still
never ceases to amaze me that
someone hasn't put you out of your
misery.
(beat)
You picking up the new truck?
ROCKET
You're dropping me off.
BOBBY
Then I have to stop at M and M's.
ROCKET
Right. You have a couple of things
to pick up.
Monica holds court. Biker and Baldy strap on side arms as

Lefty studies a map. Jessica inspects a Kevlar vest.
MONICA
What’s you take? Lefty?
48.
LEFTY
They might prove useful. We can
take them out of the equation
whenever we want. Maybe they have
more on the ball than you think?
BALDY
If I won the big lottery I'd be
long gone - so, the question is why
they still here?
BIKER
These guys have their heads so far
up their own ass they'll never have
to worry about getting a sunburn.
JESSICA
That’s an vicious thing to say.
You don’t even know them. They’ve
been working there since they were
teenagers and given what I’ve told
you, they’re strictly a collateral
issue.
MONICA
Getting soft on these boys, are we?
Monica loads shells into the magazine of a sawed-off shotgun.
JESSICA
With all due respect, I don’t see
them as part of our focus.
MONICA
Focus? You may want to focus on
the task you’ve been given and
leave the decisions to me. Maybe
you’re the one with their head up
their ass.
Monica pumps a shell into the chamber with a deadly CLICK.
EXT. RAILWAY REPAIR YARD - DAY
Sparks cascade as a welder NANCY repairs a coach. She slips

off her mask as Rocket walks up. She leads him to a new
truck identical to the High Railer but with flaming decals.
Rocket slides in behind the wheel. Nancy shuts the door.
NANCY
Try to get out.
49.
Rocket can't open the door from inside.
NANCY (CONT’D)
Hit the remote.
He presses the remote attached to the ignition key. The

doors unlock.
ROCKET
And the extras?
NANCY
Activated. Everything you wanted.
She hands him a red colored remote. He slips a few dollars

into her greasy coveralls.
ROCKET
Thanks Nancy, you're the best.
EXT. CHURCH RECTORY - DAY
Monica holds open the van door for Baldy and Biker to load
duffel bags. They climb into the van.
EXT. MAGIC & MORE STORE - DAY
The window displays books on magic, tricks and fun party

props. Bobby hurries out carrying two hard plastic cases.
Big Sally works a computer joystick. The monitor reflects

the interior of a sparsely outfitted coach. A pan results in
a poster of Cher - upside down. He is excited.
BIG SALLY
(to Cher’s image)
Darling, you and I are going to
keep on eye on things.
EXT. MARINA - DAY
Bobby carries the cases from his Hummer past the High Railer
with flaming decals. He heads down to the docking area.
50.
EXT. BOAT - DAY
The yacht POWER BALL gently sways as Bobby climbs onboard.

He stops, listens and looks toward the lower cabin.
LANA (V.O.)
Uhhh Ohhh... You're the best.
Bobby shakes his head and goes down below.
INT. BOAT - DAY
Rocket sits with models TINA and LANA. A microphone is

attached to a laptop. He looks at Bobby, tapping the keys.
TINA (V.O.)
Oh oh ohhhh! Ahhhh!
Rocket taps the keyboard again silencing the voice.
ROCKET
Bobby, meet Tina and Lana.
BOBBY
Technology is a wondrous thing.
Rocket and the Models get up to leave.
ROCKET
You get Francois. Be gentle.
Bobby waves him off as they climb topside.
EXT. BOAT - DAY
Francois arrives as Rocket and the girls climb off the boat.
ROCKET
Bobby's waiting.
Rocket leads the girls to the parking area as Francois

gingerly steps aboard the craft.
FRANCOIS
Bobby?
He peers down the stairs into the galley.
FRANCOIS (CONT’D)
My goodness. I've never seen
anything like that in my life.
51.
Francois nearly trips in his rush down the stairs.
INT. BOAT - DAY
Francois is astonished.
FRANCOIS
If you needed a little head, I
applaud your selection.
Bobby holds up a ventriloquist dummy's head that is a dead

ringer for Francois. He sets the head back into its case.
BOBBY
Rocket said you were stressed out.
What's going on, why the panic?
FRANCOIS
Big Sal expects me to work on the
train. Bobby I can't do that.
(wipes cushion)
Think of all those people, and
children. Germs everywhere. Makes
me nauseous, I tell you. Tabernac!
I don't even want to discuss those
dreadful uniforms.
Francois straightens the cushions and sits regally.
BOBBY
He getting ready to have us in the
office again?
(caresses case)
We're ready if he is.
FRANCOIS
He installed some fancy equipment
in your coach. A spy camera.
Francois gingerly moves aside wine glasses on wet coasters.
BOBBY
Perfect. I can work with that.
Nothing like a little spy cam to
take things up a notch. Who’s he
kidding?
FRANCOIS
That’s not all Bobby.
52.
INT. TRAIN - CUSTOM COACH - DAY
Bobby and Rocket stare in disbelief. The coach has been

refitted with standard furnishings. A single Cher poster
hangs upside down. A ceiling mounted camera slowly pans.
Big Sally does a little jig pointing at Bobby and Rocket's

dejected faces on the monitor.
BIG SALLY
(cartoon voice)
Oh Big Sal, we should have known
better than to ever have challenged
your authority. Without a doubt
you are the wise master, and we are
not worthy of any attention you may
bestow upon us.
EXT. TRAIN - CUSTOM COACH - DAY
Yardmaster Gordon approaches the two Hummers parked beside

the last coach. Bobby and Rocket step off the train.
BOBBY
Gordon, what is this?
GORDON
Big Sal decided to pull the plug,
nothing I could do about it.
ROCKET
We had big bucks invested in that
coach.
GORDON
What can I tell you? He's the one
in control.
ROCKET
The only thing he controls is his
bowel movements... on a good day.
EXT. ROOFTOP GARDEN - DAY
Monica leans on the ledge. Baldy adjusting his binoculars

while Biker tweaks his radio module.
MONICA
See the station?
53.
BALDY
Perfect view.
MONICA
You guys stand by here, I need a
closer look. Any word from Lefty?
BIKER
Not yet.
EXT. TRAIN STATION - CREW ROOM - DAY
Jessica and Shirley sit enjoying the sunshine. Their uniform

jackets are draped over the back of the bench. WORKERS load
train supplies in the background. Shirley puffs a cigarette.
SHIRLEY
After they won the lottery an
account was opened down at Ginger’s
Spa where we can go for manicures,
pedicures, facials, you name it.
(conspiratorially)
Maybe they were trying to tell us
something? The boys pick up the
tab.
Jessica checks her own nails.
SHIRLEY (CONT’D)
Our uniforms? More cotton than
polyester. They foot the bill for
that too. Gave everyone cell
phones, flat fee. Bobby and Rocket
have those tracking devices in
theirs.
(looks about)
More for Bobby to keep an eye on
his brother. Rocket doesn’t have a
real long attention span.
JESSICA
As in he forgot he was married when
he left home?
Shirley spits an errant piece of tobacco from her cigarette.
SHIRLEY
Exactly, not what you'd call a good
catch. Not that he isn't fun mind
you. One time he had gallons of
that stuff kids blow bubbles with.
54.
EXT. TRAIN - RURAL AREA - DAY - (FLASHBACK)
Along the interstate FAMILIES watch the train chug along as

gigantic bubbles rise from the engine's smokestack.
END FLASHBACK.
JESSICA
Sounds like harmless fun.
SHIRLEY
Big Sally didn’t think so, he
delivered them a message...
EXT. PARKING LOT - DAY - (FLASHBACK)
Rocket and Bobby peel off NO PARKING stickers covering every

inch of their vehicle's windows.
END FLASHBACK.
SHIRLEY
Naturally, the message was ignored.
EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY - (FLASHBACK)
Rocket feeds soda cans into the engine smokestack. They are
SWOOSHED high into the air in rapid succession.
Big Sally scampers from the ROARING locomotive dodging soda

cans raining from the sky, his clothing streaked and stained.
END FLASHBACK.
SHIRLEY
Every day a new adventure.
Jessica spots Bobby jumping into his Hummer and driving off.
JESSICA
How about Bobby?
SHIRLEY
Quiet, shy really. Hides behind
his collections. I see him with
the women travelling with us.
Straight as an arrow. Lots of
tomfoolery over the years but never
with Bobby. Without his brother
you'd forget he even worked here.
(MORE)
55.
SHIRLEY (CONT'D)
I think he's the brains behind
their shenanigans so I’d never
underestimate him.
JESSICA
Never got married?
SHIRLEY
Had a lady some years back. Never
met anyone who could smile so much
but never say anything, not that I
let anyone else get a word in
edgewise, if you know what I mean.
JESSICA
What happened?
SHIRLEY
Who knows? I heard she reminded
him of his mother too much. I
think he's still haunted from the
whole experience, if you ask me.
JESSICA
That's too bad.
(lowers voice)
Think this feuding with Big Sally
has anything to do with the FBI?
SHIRLEY
Don't know anything about that.
Shirley stands and grinds out her cigarette butt.
SHIRLEY (CONT’D)
Girl, these men are just little
boys playing train. Never grew up,
never had to. Doubt they go to
church. You been to church lately?
JESSICA
Just before I came here today.
SHIRLEY
I knew there was something good
about you. I can tell these
things. A little religion never
hurt nobody.
(grabs jacket)
Let's check our supplies.
The women don’t see the cell drop from Jessica's jacket
pocket as she stands up. They head over and board the train.
56.
EXT. TRAIN - CUSTOM COACH - DAY
Rocket parks his Hummer at the last coach. He climbs out

greeting FREDDIE who waits awkwardly with electronic gear.
ROCKET
Can you tweak it?
FREDDIE
Have I ever let you down?
Rocket slips some money into his shirt pocket.
ROCKET
These coaches have hollowed out
ceilings, if you need to run wires,
access from the bedroom closet.
INT. TRAIN - DINING COACH - DAY
Shirley and Jessica inspect supplies of condiments and soups

inside the galley. Towels sit nearby. Frye and Burns walk
along the aisle oblivious to the women behind the half wall.
FRYE
I worked it out. Airbags could net
half a million easy. Nobody will
even know it's going down.
BURNS
Tell Meates, he's the man.
Jessica peeks at the two men walking through the coach.
June holds the door open for Bobby as he steps lively from
the shop carrying two child sized garment bags.
JUNE
I know some think of me as a mother
hen, but really Robert.
BOBBY
Thanks Ma.
INT. RAILWAY HQ. - BIG SALLY’S OFFICE - DAY
Francois checks his watch as he enters and sits before the

massive desk. Big Sally looms over him.
57.
BIG SALLY
Why are you here? You were to be
in full uniform, down on that
train, reporting every little thing
back here to me. What part of that
didn't you understand?
FRANCOIS
I wanted to. Rocket told me there
was a special session in the last
coach and I wasn't qualified.
BIG SALLY
A special... We’ll see about that.
Big Sally storms to the computer. The screen displays two

VENTRILOQUIST PUPPETS. One of Big Sally sporting a loud
suit, the other of Francois wearing a railway uniform.
Big Sally is numb. Francois controls his excitement.
BIG SALLY PUPPET (V.O.)

You really are cute. You okay?
You're looking a little stiff.
FRANCOIS PUPPET (V.O.)

(giggles)
Oh Big Sally, you give new meaning
to... having a woody.

You are bold and imaginative, able
to anticipate my emotional needs.
INSERT - CREW ROOM
Engineers Ted and Dave watch the puppet show on the monitor
with various CREW members. Everyone is CHEERING.
BACK TO SCENE.
Big Sally wields the joystick feverishly. The image remains.

Are you willing to try something
different? Perhaps change into
something more... comfortable?
58.

You know I would. Would you like
me to put on my new thong. The one
with the candy stripes?
Big Sally slaps the side of the monitor to no avail.

You willing to tell the world
you're done playing hard to get?

Somehow I think they already know
that.

If you'd just fire Bobby and Rocket
I'd be sure.
Big Sally rips the plug out of the wall socket.
BIG SALLY
We're going over to that train and
put an end to this now.
FRANCOIS
They're loading - we'll never make
it in time.
BIG SALLY
We’ll see about that.
(muttering)
When I get my hands on those...
EXT. TRAIN STATION - PLATFORM - DAY
Redcaps wheel luggage as PASSENGERS walk to various coaches.

Attendants check tickets and help folks board. Shirley
oversees the platform activities.
Bobby and Rocket approach from the rear in full uniform.

Jessica trots up from the station and hooks up with the trio.
ROCKET
Savage, once everyone's boarded you
and Shirley will ensure all doors
are closed. The yard engine will
hook the auto carriers onto the
back of our train.
JESSICA
I lost my cell phone.
59.
ROCKET
No time for that now. We'll get
you a new one when we get back.
SHIRLEY
I'll look after her.
BOBBY
(to Jessica)
Do everything Shirley tells you.
JESSICA
(salutes)
Yes sir.
BOBBY
I'm serious, wouldn’t want anyone
hurt on my watch.
JESSICA
Appreciate that Bobby, I'll be
careful.
The STATION MASTER can be heard on the loud speakers.
STATION MASTER (V.O.)

Last call for Virginia, All Aboard.
EXT. ROOFTOP GARDEN - DAY
Baldy stands adjusting the binoculars.
BALDY
Jesus H.
BIKER
What?
BALDY’S P.O.V.
Monica rounds the station corner. She doesn’t see Meates and
Blue approach. They are face to face. Meates holds his gun
to her face and leads her into the storage room.
INT. TRAIN - LOCOMOTIVE - DAY
Ted sets down the dash mounted cell phone as Dave applies the
train brakes. The reduction in air pressure is LOUD.
TED
That was Big Sally. Told him we're
leaving on time.
60.
INT. STATION - STORAGE ROOM - DAY
Meates turns from the window and looks at Blue.
MEATES
Let's take a train ride.
BLUE
What about her?
Monica is gagged, tied and secured to a railway warning sign.
MEATES
We have more pressing issues.
The platform is deserted. Shirley and Jessica look out from

a half opened train door as the train leaves the station.
Rocket hangs his hat on the camera. He then lifts his hat
off and rips it from its mount. Bobby sets his paperwork on
the couch next to the ventriloquist puppets and Cher book.
BOBBY
The FBI guys up ahead?
ROCKET
Who knows? Maybe if I slip them a
couple of bucks they’ll arrest Big
Sally. You know he'll show up
somewhere.
EXT. RAILWAY HQ. - SPUR TRACK - DAY
Big Sally and Francois study the new truck with flaming
decals on the door sitting in the High Railer's spot.
BIG SALLY
What is this?
FRANCOIS
Your new High Railer. I thought
you knew?
BIG SALLY
I know nothing, you know that.
61.
FRANCOIS
The crew members all chipped in.
They love you Big Sal.
Big Sally admires his reflection in the glass.
BIG SALLY
I'd better drive.
Biker and Baldy SQUEAL to a stop in the van.
INT. STATION - STORAGE ROOM - DAY
Biker and Baldy KICK in the door. They charge inside with
guns drawn. Monica looks out from above her gag.
INT. TRAIN - COACH - DAY - TRAVELING
TRAVELLERS settle in for the trip. Jessica and Shirley help

an elderly COUPLE stow their belongings.
Meates and Blue negotiate along the aisle as the coach sways.
A LITTLE GIRL drops her potato chips. She reaches but Blue's
big foot CRUSHES the bag flat. He stares at the dejected
child without missing a step. Jessica takes it all in.
Bobby looks over Rocket's shoulder at a small icon crossing a

grid on a portable GPS gadget.
BOBBY
Nothing from Francois?
ROCKET
Said he'd report anything unusual
when and if it happens.
INT. HIGH RAILER - DAY - TRAVELING
Big Sally proudly drives along the interstate as Francois

looks out the window.
62.
BIG SALLY
This should be a lesson. Granted
I've been tough on my people but
deep down they appreciate it.
Big Sally adjusts the rear view mirror and studies his image.

I ever tell you the bull story?
FRANCOIS
You told me a few tales with bull
in them, is that what you mean?
BIG SALLY
No, that is not what I mean.
(leans back)
Two bulls are walking down a path
when they see a field full of cows.
The young bull is all excited and
says they should hop the fence and
jump a couple of them. The old
bull, who is much wiser, says
they'll take their time, go down to
the gate, open it up and stroll
into the field and jump them all.
FRANCOIS
Were these bulls really handsome?
BIG SALLY
How should I know? The point is
you treat employees all the same,
you're doing them a favor, they
know where you're coming from.
FRANCOIS
Bobby and Rocket probably want a
favor too.
BIG SALLY
You have to be able to see the big
picture like I do. I can't be
firing those boys, how much luck do
they expect to have in one
lifetime? They're free to quit
whenever they want.
FRANCOIS
People usually resign when you
least expect it.
63.
INT. VAN - DAY - TRAVELING
Monica keys her headset.
MONICA
(into headset)
Red leader to Red One. Circus has
left town. Copy?
LEFTY (V.O.)
Roger, Red Leader, circus caravan
in sight.
Meates and Blue barge in without warning. Rocket hides his

GPS gadget. Bobby enters from the bedroom area.
MEATES
In a few minutes we'll enter a
siding for our first stop, correct?
BOBBY
That's our normal procedure.
MEATES
You'll unhook the auto section on
the back end from the rest of the
train.
ROCKET
The criminals are in the carriers?
MEATES
State police have been notified.
BOBBY
We can't just leave these railcars
in the middle of nowhere.
Meates rests his hand on his gun holster.
MEATES
Your boss assured me you boys would
take care of everything.
The boys exchange a subtle glance.
ROCKET
Bobby, if Big Sally says it's
alright, it's alright.
64.
EXT. TRAIN - SIDING - DAY
Big Sally and Francois park on an access road near rail

ENTHUSIASTS who ogle the train as it SQUEALS to a stop.
Bobby and Rocket climb off the last coach. They see Big
Sally leaning and lurching, trying to escape from the truck.
ROCKET
There's the carp. See how excited
he is to see us? Nothing like a
hands-on supervisor.
They enter between the last coach and first auto carrier,
turn the air valve, then pull up on the uncoupling lever.
Bobby and Rocket step back and survey the string of enclosed
auto carriers to the rear of their train.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
I'm telling you, that Meates guy
isn't going to look too good by the
time this is all over and done
with.
Rocket nudges Bobby to look over at Big Sally. The truck is

rocking from Big Sally's shifting weight.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
Give Big Sally a little wave.
Rocket and Bobby give Big Sally a happy little wave.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
Okay Bobby, check it out.
Rocket hands Bobby the red remote. Bobby taps it. VOICES
can be heard from speakers inside Big Sally’s High Railer.
TINA (V.O.)
Oh oh ohhhh! Ahhhh!
LANA (V.O.)
Uhhh Ohhh You're the best.
The train Enthusiasts turn and stare. Big Sally cannot open
the door nor escape his seatbelt.
TINA (V.O.)
Uhhh Uhhh Ohhh Ahhh!
LANA (V.O.)
That's it! That's it! That's it!
65.
Francois' flips open his cell and puts it on the dash. He

then pretends to help his beleaguered boss escape his
seatbelt. His head bobs up and down leaning over Big Sally.
The Enthusiasts gape. A MOTHER covers the eyes of her GIRL.
TINA (V.O.)
Oohhh. Yes! Yes! Ride me baby!
Biker and Baldy look at Monica adjusting the speaker phone.
TINA (V.O.)
Oohhh. Yes! Yes! Ride me baby!
MONICA
Are we confirmed that’s the number
of the Railway Supervisor?
INT. TRAIN - VESTIBULE - DAY - TRAVELING
Bobby and Rocket enter the vestibule. Jessica quickly joins

them from the opposite direction.
BOBBY
Jessica, what are you doing back
here?
JESSICA
I thought... I wanted to tell you
about...
ROCKET
Savage we'd love to hear your story
but we're kind of busy. Train?
Passengers? Responsibilities?
JESSICA
I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner,
but I’m with the FBI.
ROCKET
You’re an FBI agent? Sure Savage.
JESSICA
Actually, an agent trainee.
ROCKET
And we’re really astronauts.
66.
BOBBY
You're with Meates?
JESSICA
Those guys are not from the Bureau.
BOBBY
Then what...
JESSICA
I'm not sure. What I do know is
they're looking to pull off a scam.
These guys are not little league,
somebody has the resources to
assemble this team and stay the
course. Help me out here. What
have you two been up to, what are
they after?
ROCKET
You have a badge Savage?
JESSICA
Yes, of course. But I lost it. It
was hooked onto my cell phone case.
ROCKET
Right. For your information Meates
has a badge and it has an F and a B
and an I, bold as brass.
JESSICA
FBI badges don’t say FBI. Look,
enough fooling around, you have to
trust me here.
ROCKET
Trust works both ways.
JESSICA
If you can't get your head around
trust, try having some faith.
ROCKET
One hour working with Shirley and
now we’re on the faith train.
JESSICA
Suit yourselves. I've done all I
can.
Jessica turns to leave. Bobby stops her.

67.
BOBBY
It's about the egg.
JESSICA
The egg? The egg? What friggin’
egg? I should just slap you. We
haven't got all day to play games.
ROCKET
He paid ten million for it.
JESSICA
Ten million dollars? You paid ten
million dollars for an egg?
BOBBY
One of a kind. Collector's dream.
JESSICA
Right. And does this story involve
a bunny... with a basket?
ROCKET
That's it little brother. See?
Like I’m the only one who thinks
you’ve slipped a gear.
JESSICA
You’re serious?
BOBBY
Very.
ROCKET
He is, sad to say. So. Just go
and arrest them and we'll all live
happily ever after.
JESSICA
And the charges are what exactly?
BOBBY
We need a plan.
ROCKET
Right. A plan. Something devious,
something deceitful, dare I say,
something Machiavellian.
Jessica closes her eyes and shakes her head.
JESSICA
I'm not cut out for this line of
work.
68.
BOBBY
Those guys are in our coach, right
in there.
The trio look at the coach door.
Meates sits at the table. He motions for Bobby and Rocket to

join him as he pours tea. Blue hulks off to the side.
MEATES
At the turn of the century the
Tsar of Russia presented an Easter
egg to his lovely wife Alexandra.
He produces the Cher book. He opens the cover. Nestled

within the hollowed out pages rests a Faberge egg.
MEATES (CONT’D)
Trans-Siberian Railway Faberge egg.
He lifts out the egg. It boasts a three headed golden eagle

supporting the Imperial Crown.
Biker drives. Baldy checks his weapon. Monica keys her

headset. Police shields dangle from their necks.
MONICA
Copy Red One. ETA one minute.
EXT. HELICOPTER - DAY
Lefty looks from the chopper at the auto carriers sitting

isolated in the train siding. A crest reading FEDERAL BUREAU
OF INVESTIGATION is printed on its side.
LEFTY
Roger, over the big tent now.
State police cars ROAR down the access road. The FBI chopper
hovers above. Big Sally staggers into the fray looking
vanquished. Francois hangs back twirling the remote.
69.
Meates displays the Faberge egg to Bobby and Rocket. Blue

covers them with a handgun.
MEATES
A serious collector placed an
Internet bid on this fine piece of
artistry. Unfortunately, modern
communication not always being what
it should be, a glitch occurred.
He rotates the egg. Engraved in silver across the side is a

map of the route of the Trans-Siberian Railway with each
station marked by a precious stone.
MEATES (CONT’D)
Some clown with no appreciation for
anything but trains managed to
outbid the gentleman I represent.
BOBBY
He should’ve attended the auction,
being so appreciative and all.
ROCKET
You snooze you lose, pal.
MEATES
When you look at this you see gold,
platinum, silver and rubies. A
true collector sees the history,
originality, creativity and
imagination.
BOBBY
Your boss wouldn't be too impressed
if he knew your greasy fingers were
all over it.
Blue slugs Bobby in the gut with the revolver. Burns and
Frye drag Jessica by the collar in from the vestibule.
MEATES
What's this?
BURNS
Hanging outside the door.
JESSICA
Take your filthy hands off me.
Blue levels his revolver at her. Burns and Frye release her.
70.
BOBBY
You've got what you want, take it.
We'll stop the train and you can be
on your way.
MEATES
Do I look stupid to you?
BOBBY
Now that you mention it...
Blue jabs his other side. Bobby falls to his knees. Jessica
kneels down to comfort him. Rocket makes a move. He stops
cold as Blue points a gun at his face.
MEATES
Don't be silly, you and I both know
this isn't what I've come for.
He crushes the egg with his large powerful hand.
MEATES (CONT’D)
A bauble, trinket. The original
has markings on the bottom such as
the number nineteen hundred, the
initials M.P. I want the real one.
BOBBY
Think I'd keep it here?
Meates looks into Bobby’s face and holds the gun to his eye.
MEATES
This train is scheduled to pull
into Cassandra Station at midnight.
You deliver the original to me by
then. If you don't, look for pieces
of your brother along the tracks.
Meates lets the pieces of egg fall onto the floor.
ROCKET
How do you propose I do that?
MEATES
That really is of no concern to me.
Jessica sets the puppets aside and helps Bobby to the couch.
BOBBY
I'll have to go. No way Rocket can
get the egg by then.
71.
JESSICA
Bobby you can barely stand.
Blue grabs Jessica by the face with a meaty hand.
BLUE
Somebody ask you your opinion?
JESSICA
Look at what you did to him.
Bobby lunges, striking Blue in the groin with the Big Sally
puppet. Blue swings his gun towards Bobby's head. Meates
catches Blue's wrist before the blow lands.
MEATES
(to Jessica)
Tell you what Barbie doll, you can
go with him.
Monica's van arrives in a cloud of dust. Big Sally is

handcuffed. TROOPERS with DOGS stand ready. One dog sniffs
his crotch. Monica climbs out as Biker approaches.
MONICA
Anything from Savage?
BIKER
Not answering. Last word was when
she called in from the station
before the train left.
Monica goes to Big Sally and gives him the once over. They
stand eye to eye for a few seconds.
MONICA
Salvatore.
BIG SALLY
Monica.
(beat)
Would you be so kind as to remove
these handcuffs?
MONICA
Don't you think they suit you?
She unlocks the cuffs. A Trooper walks up to the group.
TROOPER #1
Which one of you is Serra?
72.
MONICA/BIG SALLY
(in unison)
I am.
The Trooper looks at each of them.
TROOPER #1
Special Agent Serra?
MONICA
That would be me.
TROOPER #1
Shall we start at this end, flush
them out?
MONICA
Give us a minute.
The Trooper walks off.
BIKER
You two know each other?
MONICA
Salvatore and I go way back.
BIG SALLY
Still playing cops and robbers?
MONICA
Still playing with trains.
(indicates railcars)
Though not too successfully by the
look of things.
BIG SALLY
What are you doing here?
MONICA
I was in town conducting a training
exercise and thought I'd stop in to
visit. I'm in the hall with your
Trainees and see this scumbag from
years back leave your office.
Meates, name mean anything? God
forbid that you'd notice something
odd and call someone.
(brushes his suit)
Thought I'd take a closer look so I
had our young Miss Savage enroll in
your training program.
(MORE)
73.
MONICA (CONT'D)
If she’s good enough to train with
the Bureau, be nothing climbing
aboard your little train operation.
Baldy approaches the pair.
BALDY
Agent Serra, I've briefed the
Troopers, everyone is up to speed.
MONICA
How did they get here so fast?
Isn’t that just the darnedest
thing?
BALDY
Said someone called in an anonymous
tip.
MONICA
Imagine that.
She dismisses Baldy with a wave.
BIG SALLY
I believe all this falls a little
short of your authority. Once
again sticking your nose where it
doesn't belong.
MONICA
These auto carriers are under the
control of the state police. You
have a problem talk to them.
BIG SALLY
I'll be setting them straight,
don't you worry about that.
MONICA
I'll try not to.
(fixes his tie)
As for the rest of your train, you
remember, that part with passengers
on board rolling down the tracks
out there? When they cross the
state line into my jurisdiction, I
may have to impound the whole
thing.
BIG SALLY
You wouldn't dare.
74.
MONICA
Wouldn't I?
Meates stands beside the door. Bobby nudges the Francois

puppet for Rocket to see as Jessica helps him up.
MEATES
I'd like to stop the train but why
arouse unnecessary suspicion.
JESSICA
Wouldn't want to do that, would we?
MEATES
It’ll slow down. Anything happens
out of the ordinary, all bets are
off. I think we all understand?
ROCKET
(to Bobby)
Eagle river.
BOBBY
The water's warm enough I guess,
June's not too far away.
(to Meates)
You'll get your egg, but anything
happens to my brother, anything at
all, you'll never have a moment's
piece the rest of your life.
Meates finds this humorous. Rocket conceals his punching of

buttons on his cell key pad.
MEATES
Sure tough guy, whatever. You and
sugar lips here have a good time.
Bobby turns to Rocket under the watchful eye of Meates.
BOBBY
I was hoping we'd be in the lounge
by now having drinks. You'll have
to get along without me.
ROCKET
These guys will keep me amused.
MEATES
Enough. We'll take care of things
here, you concentrate on my egg.
75.
ROCKET
(to Bobby)
Wait until the engine whistles
you'll be over the deepest part.
Bobby goes to hug Rocket. Meates stops him. He pats them

both down and finds their cell phones.
MEATES
I’ll keep these in case I need to
call a friend.
Big Sally stands helplessly watching Francois speed off in

the High Railer. Monica walks up and shares his view.
MONICA
Your date leave you hanging?
BIG SALLY
Good help is hard to find.
MONICA
So are the bad guys. My bet is
there's nobody on board those car
carriers. Why don't I give you a
lift and you can fill me in.
BIG SALLY
I can find my own way back.
MONICA
I wasn't asking.
EXT. TRAIN - RURAL AREA - DAY
The train lumbers across a bridge. The engine WHISTLES a

succession of BLASTS.
Bobby and Jessica are poised on the steps of the last coach.
They leap. Falling. Down. Down until they SPLASH into the
churning waters below.
INT. HIGH RAILER - DAY - TRAVELING
Francois speeds along the interstate. The GPS locator BEEPS.

76.
EXT. CARIBBEAN BEACH - DAY - (DREAM)
Turquoise waters glisten in the sunshine. The gentle surf

etches the ivory sand. Jessica materializes in the water and
walks slowly towards shore wearing a bikini.
JESSICA
When I was little I played hide and
seek. I was the best player, no
one could ever find me and I didn't
have to come out until I wanted.
Bobby is stretched out at the water's edge. He squints from

the sun. Jessica moves through the wake. Bubbles of foam
dance around her legs as she steadily approaches.
JESSICA (CONT’D)
After awhile I realized that being
the best player meant nothing
because I was missing out on other
things. I'm not letting you play
that game anymore either Bobby.
You can’t hide any more. I've
found you.
Jessica's luxurious skin sparkles as she steps from the surf.
JESSICA (CONT’D)
Bobby?
She kneels down and kisses him passionately on the lips.
EXT. RIVER BANK - DAY
Bobby jolts awake to a sopping wet Jessica performing mouth

to mouth resuscitation on him.
JESSICA
Bobby?
Bobby's eyes flutter. He spits up watery bile and struggles

to comprehend. Jessica cradles him into a sitting position.
BOBBY
I forgot to bring my water wings.
JESSICA
That's alright Bobby, you're safe
now.
Francois wheels up in the High Railer. He exits with a

flourish surveying his waterlogged discovery.
77.
FRANCOIS
Shall I return at a more
appropriate time?
BOBBY
She isn't who you think she is.
FRANCOIS
They never are.
BOBBY
I mean this isn't what you think it
is.
FRANCOIS
It never is.
Jessica gently wipes Bobby's mouth with her sleeve.
June's Corvette RUMBLES as she revs the engine. Tires SCREAM

as she spins away leaving a pair of black skid marks.
INT. HIGH RAILER - EVENING - TRAVELING
Bobby drives. Jessica and Francois are crowded beside him

looking at a map.
JESSICA
How will we ever be able to catch
up to the train?
BOBBY
They just dilly-dally along, the
trip lasts hours so the passengers
can sleep all night. Question is,
how do we get back on board without
those deadbeats finding out? I
need to call our engineers.
JESSICA
I should call Special Agent Serra
and fill her in.
BOBBY
Who?
JESSICA
You know, Monica, from the church.
78.
BOBBY
Did you say Serra?
JESSICA
Yes, why?
BOBBY
Big Sally was married years ago.
No. Couldn’t be. You don't
suppose she's the same woman?
FRANCOIS
I just love a family reunion.
BOBBY/JESSICA
(in unison)
Francois.
FRANCOIS
Sorry.
EXT. SEVEN ELEVEN STORE - NIGHT
The Corvette shines under neon lights. June leans on the

door talking to BRAD, a young hunk with a killer smile.
BRAD
She's a beauty. Fast I bet.
JUNE
ZR-1, six twenty horsepower. Purrs
like a kitten. Do you like kittens
Brad?
INT. TRAIN - CUSTOM COACH - NIGHT - TRAVELING
Meates and his thugs play cribbage. Rocket straightens up

the ventriloquist puppets.
MEATES
Did you want to entertain us?
ROCKET
I'll do some magic later. Right
now I have to do a routine walk
through the train.
MEATES
Nice try cowboy. I think we'll
stay put right here.
79.
ROCKET
Suit yourself. If I don't show my
face the crew will know something’s
wrong and be back here checking. A
locked door and they'll have the
engineer alert the authorities.
MEATES
Burns. Frye. Go with our host
here and keep an eye on him.
(to Rocket)
Listen up good big boy, any funny
business, anything at all, they'll
take you right out of the equation.
EXT. SEVEN ELEVEN STORE - NIGHT
Bobby wheels the High Railer into the lot. June walks over
carrying the package Bobby carried from the jewelry store
days ago. Jessica runs into the store with the map.
JUNE
Bobby, what is going on? Why
aren’t you on the train?
BOBBY
Long story Ma. No trouble with the
safe?
JUNE
Like I’d forget those winning
lottery numbers?
Brad watches Bobby kiss June’s cheek. Bobby takes the

canister and hands it to Francois. Brad struts over.
BRAD
Everything cool June?
JUNE
Yes Brad. Just wait in the car.
He hesitates, then struts back to the car. Francois notices.
BOBBY
Do I even want to know what that's
all about?
JUNE
My guess would be no.
FRANCOIS
Crème de la crème.
80.
Bobby and June point to the High Railer. Francois sulks his
way back to it. Jessica sprints from the store and climbs
into the truck. She hands Francois a tube of Crazy Glue.
BOBBY
Good to go Jessie?
Jessica gives him the thumbs up. Bobby turns to June.
BOBBY (CONT’D)
Thanks Ma. Gotta run.
Jessica punches numbers into Francois’ cell phone.
INT. VAN - NIGHT - TRAVELING
Biker and Baldy ride up front. Big Sally and Monica sit
opposite each other in the back by the instrument panel.
MONICA
Salvatore you are still the most
stubborn man I've ever met. My
trainee hasn't reported in. Let me
tell you, she is priority one. You
have no idea who she is.
BIG SALLY
We all have our crosses to bear in
life. Good thing my people are
highly trained and extremely
motivated and, I might add,
probably more committed than yours.
MONICA
Sal... her father sits on the
government's transportation
committee. Anything happens to
her, your head will be on the
chopping block.
BIG SALLY
I think yours will be right next to
mine, Monica.
MONICA
Don't think, it doesn't become you.
BIG SALLY
There you go again. We had a good
thing going, but no, you weren't
satisfied. Always barking orders.
Monica offers him a phone plugged into the panel.

81.
MONICA
Call that train of yours and tell
them to do whatever necessary to
protect my girl until we catch up.
Big Sally turns away refusing to take the phone.
MONICA (CONT’D)
Please Sal. This is important.
BIG SALLY
Normally I don't like to get
involved, but seeing you said
please.
Big Sally takes the phone. A BEEP. The machine on the front
console spits out a faxed map. Baldy hands it to Monica.
BALDY
Savage. From a Seven Eleven.
The phone RINGS. Monica snatches it back from Big Sally.
MONICA
Special Agent Serra.
(eyes Big Sally)
Just received it. Where are you
Jessica?
(looks at map)
That is outside the norm but I'll
trust your judgement on this.
(studies map)
We'll be waiting. Be careful.
(beat)
I'll make the arrangements.
Monica disconnects and points to the faxed map.
MONICA (CONT’D)
Cassandra Station.
INT. TRAIN - DINING COACH - NIGHT - TRAVELING
Burns and Frye escort Rocket along the aisle. Shirley is

organizing dishes and silverware when she spots Rocket.
ROCKET
Everything alright Shirley?
SHIRLEY
Rocket. Not looking so good. Hope
you aren't getting that flu that's
going around.
(MORE)
82.
SHIRLEY (CONT'D)
Guy up ahead has it, what a mess.
Something right out of the
Exorcist. Smells like he pooped
his pants too.
ROCKET
You know passenger problems are not
my department. Everything under
control now?
Shirley studies Rocket not sure of what to make of the

situation. Burns nudges Rocket forward.
SHIRLEY
Yes, of course.
ROCKET
Carry on then.
Shirley watches Rocket as Burns and Frye escort him from the
coach. She picks up her walkie talkie.
SHIRLEY
Ted, Dave? You boys hear me?
INT. TRAIN - LOCOMOTIVE - NIGHT - TRAVELING
Engineer Dave is at the controls. Ted speaks into the radio.
TED
Shirley relax, everything is under
control. Bobby called. The FBI is
involved so let everyone know to
just play along.
INTERCUT with Dining Coach.
SHIRLEY
Can’t you tell me what’s going on,
for God’s sake? Oh, never mind.
What can I do to help?
TED
Make sure the door next to our
engine is unlocked and get word to
Rocket that one of the twins might
want to come out and play.
SHIRLEY
Lord Jesus. What next? What
twins?
83.
TED
Don’t know Shirl. That's just what
he said. Rocket will know.
EXT. TRAIN TRACK - ISOLATED AREA - NIGHT
Bobby and Jessica hop out of the High Railer. Francois

slides behind the wheel. Bobby taps his watch.
BOBBY
Francois, off you go.
FRANCOIS
It’s not fair. Now I know how
Cinderella felt.
He speeds off leaving them in darkness. Bobby sparks a red

flare and leads Jessica to the tracks. He sets the burning
flare down between the rails.
JESSICA
Let me understand this. The
engineer on our train called the
engineer on a freight train, told
him to pick us up and deliver us to
our train. Then we'll, what, fly
over to our train?
BOBBY
Remember you talked about faith?
JESSICA
Faith is one thing but there's a
lot of people on that train, who
knows what those guys will do if
something goes wrong.
BOBBY
You have a gun?
JESSICA
Not with me. I hope it doesn't
come to that.
(beat
Rocket doesn’t have a gun on that
train, does he?
Bobby’s face is mostly hidden in the shadow of the flare.
JESSICA (CONT’D)
Bobby? Does Rocket have a gun?
84.
BOBBY
Relax. With his charm and
ingenuity, what else does he need?
JESSICA
Given they are armed to the teeth,
you’re taking this a tad lightly.
BOBBY
I’m not. I’m scared to death but
I’m doing the best I can. You
think the FBI will save his life?
It’ll be a blood bath. Anything
happens it will be on my shoulders.
When I think FBI, I think Waco,
anthrax, should I go on?
JESSICA
Is that our image - screw ups?
BOBBY
Well it’s the truth, isn’t it?
JESSICA
Truth? You shoot me a line of crap
about how poor little you had it so
tough because Big Sally didn’t like
the way you shined your shoes?
Then you just had to hire back to
teach him a lesson. That is the
biggest load of shit I’ve ever
heard. You must think I’m really
stupid. Is that what you think?
Bobby looks down the tracks into the darkness.
JESSICA (CONT’D)
The truth isn’t out there Bobby.
BOBBY
It started on our last trip.
EXT. TRAIN STATION - PLATFORM - DAY (FLASHBACK)
The train arrives sporting a banner across the front of the

locomotive reading O’BRIEN BOYS LAST TRIP. The platform is
filled with railway CUSTOMERS and DOZENS of RAILWAY CREWS.
Bobby and Rocket climb from the train and smile and wave to
their Peers. Shirley gives them each a kiss. Ted, Dave and
other Engineers shake their hands. Francois hands them each
a balloon.
85.
ROCKET
Where did twenty years go? Seems
like we started only yesterday.
FRANCOIS
Thank goodness you never had the
difficulties your papa had.
BOBBY
What’s that supposed to mean?
FRANCOIS
I was in my uncle’s office, you
know, vice president of corporate
affairs. I found a memo addressed
to Big Sally - a reprimand - to
stop calling those engineers.
BOBBY
What are you talking about?
FRANCOIS
Years ago, seems Big Sal got his
kicks from calling engineers, like
your daddy, to report for duty
knowing full well they were already
at work. By the time these guys
would get home, their wives were
ballistic thinking they were out
screwing around.
Bobby releases the balloon and it floats up to the sky.
END FLASHBACK.
Bobby is close to Jessica, illuminated by the red flare.
BOBBY
We finally understood why our
mother ran off.
JESSICA
Bobby... I don’t know what...
Bobby takes her hand and looks her in the eye.
BOBBY
I need you to work with me, not
against me.
They are suddenly bathed in white light. The freight train

approaches with its headlights shining bright.
86.
EXT. REST STOP - NIGHT
Monica’s van pulls into the rest stop. A helicopter awaits.
INT. HELICOPTER - NIGHT
Monica and Big Sally strap themselves in behind the PILOT and
Lefty. Big Sally checks out his surroundings with childlike
zeal. Monica taps the Pilot's shoulder.
MONICA
Let me know when we cross the state
line.
The Pilot gives her the thumbs up. Monica checks Big Sally's
harness. He imitates the Pilot's thumbs up gesture.
INT. FREIGHT LOCOMOTIVE - NIGHT - TRAVELING
Jessica checks the view through the window. The CONDUCTOR

and ENGINEER check Jessica out. Bobby studies a timetable.
BOBBY
Where do we overtake my train?
ENGINEER
We'll be on double track ten miles
ahead. Your train will be on the
left. We'll pull up alongside and
synchronize our speeds. You’ll
have about two minutes to transfer.
BOBBY
Shouldn't need more than that.
ENGINEER
Good thing you caught us. The next
train behind us is an express and
he doesn't stop for anything.
CONDUCTOR
(to Jessica)
You really an FBI agent?
JESSICA
Don't know for how much longer.
CONDUCTOR
I wouldn't worry about that, you'll
probably kill yourself trying a
stunt like this anyway.
87.
Shirley watches from a advantageous position in the galley.

Rocket appears being hustled back through by Burns and Frye.
SHIRLEY
Rocket. I hope to see you at
church next week.
ROCKET
Good Lord willing, so do I.
(beat)
I need some ice.
Rocket slips behind her. Burns and Frye struggle to see but
Shirley doesn't budge. Rocket emerges with a towel around
his neck dropping ice cubes onto the floor.
ROCKET (CONT’D)
This should do the trick.
BURNS
Our friend here has another
passenger that needs him.
SHIRLEY
I hope you don't have that deadly
flu strain, whatever they call it.
You boys know, the one that kills
you with no warning. Lord, the
world today, you never know when
something bad is going to show up.
FRYE
Yes, well, thank you. We'll see to
it that Rocket here takes it easy.
You have a nice evening ma'am.
SHIRLEY
Keep that towel around you, ice
will do you good. Get some rest
and say hello to the twins for me.
Rocket gives her a glance before Burns and Frye rush him off.
EXT. CASSANDRA STATION - NIGHT
The chopper lands CHURNING up dust and debris. Black SUV’s

sit in the shadows.
The propeller WHIRS overhead as Monica hustles out. Big

Sally tries to climb out. She returns to lend a hand.
88.
The chopper lifts off. An AGENT exits an SUV.
AGENT
How do you want to do this?
MONICA
Train only stops to change out
engineers, passenger doors won't be
open. We're looking at the last
coach on the train. Where’s SWAT?
The Agent shrugs.
Jessica looks at the lights from the passenger train casting

an eerie glow onto the tracks. Slowly and steadily they pass
alongside the passenger train.
Burns and Frye shove Rocket inside. Meates looks up.
MEATES
Took long enough. What's with the
towel?
FRYE
Someone up ahead has that deadly
flu bug.
ROCKET
I think I’m getting it myself. I
picked up a little ice from my
coworker. Want some?
MEATES
Sit down and zip it smart mouth.
Meates checks his watch. Rocket lurches holding his stomach.
ROCKET
I'm going to toss my cookies.
Rocket heads into the bedroom area to the washroom. Burns

goes to follow him.
MEATES
Leave him. Where’s the sissy going
to go?
Burns shrugs. Meates waves him on.

89.
INT. TRAIN - PASSENGER LOCOMOTIVE - NIGHT - TRAVELING
The freight train's headlights reflects off the outside

rearview mirror onto engineer Dave's face.
DAVE
They’re coming along side us now.
Ted gets up and opens the overhead storage locker.
INT. TRAIN - CUSTOM COACH - WASHROOM - NIGHT - TRAVELING
Rocket kneels at the toilet. Hidden in his towel is a bag of

pea soup. He feigns vomit NOISES and squirts soup into the
bowl. A disgusted Burns returns to the coach's common area.
The trains are side by side. Ted signals the Conductor

through his window. Locomotive doors are opened. The WIND
is deafening. Bobby and Jessica exchange a look.
Ted passes a first aid stretcher through his locomotive’s

door. The Conductor secures his end by placing the handles
tight to the floor with his feet. A walkway. The ferocious
wind WHIPS at the canvas gurney like a sail.
Ted motions Bobby and Jessica forward.
BOBBY
(to Jessica)
Ladies first.
JESSICA
What?
BOBBY
(shouting over wind)
After you.
JESSICA
I'm a quick study. You'll have to
show me.
EXT. TRAIN LOCOMOTIVES - NIGHT - TRAVELING
The trains are neck and neck POUNDING along. Bobby leaves
the engine crawling on hands and knees along the stretcher.
His hair and clothing FLAP relentlessly in the wind.
90.
The stretcher does a quick BOUNCE. Bobby holds on. He

reaches out. Ted grabs hold and manhandles him inside.
Jessica looks through the doorway at Bobby motioning to her

from the passenger engine. Gusts of WIND toss her hair and
tug at her uniform. She is immobilized with fear.
CONDUCTOR
Less than a minute before the rails
diverge. If you’re going, go now.
Jessica takes a deep breath and drops to the floor.
EXT. TRAIN LOCOMOTIVES - NIGHT - TRAVELING
Jessica begins tentatively. The force of the WIND envelopes

her lithe body. She stares at Bobby. His mouth moves. The
WIND muffles every sound but RUMBLING engines.
Jessica inches ahead slowly. Bobby and Ted root her on. The
stretcher BOUNCES. Jessica nearly capsizes and barely
manages to hold on. She is halfway across.
CONDUCTOR
(shouting)
Faster. We separate less than a
mile ahead.
Bobby extends his arm. He cannot reach. The stretcher

vibrates and wobbles. The canvas TEARS. Jessica crawls
faster. She is almost within reach. The canvas RIPS again.
Jessica looks down. The track ballast shoots past in a blur.

Bobby can almost touch her hair with his hand. Just a few
inches more and she’s safe.
BANG. Jessica SCREAMS. The wooden handle SPLINTERS. The

canvas TEARS apart. She is tossed sideways then downward.
Bobby thrusts his outreached arm down into the abyss.
Bobby's desperate grab locks onto Jessica's wrist. As Bobby

leans further, Ted grabs hold of his belt. She dangles
precariously beside the gigantic wheels, her feet inches
above the ground.
Bobby cannot hold on much longer. She reaches with her free
arm. Searching. Grasping. Her hand finds the handrail.
She wraps her fingers onto it with a vise-like grip.
91.
The tracks diverge and the trains are no longer close to each
other. Jessica twists. Her kicking feet find the ladder
rungs. Bobby guides her. They fight with new found
adrenaline. Bobby lifts her inside like a rag doll.
Rocket staggers at the doorway. The light shines from the

washroom behind. Meates and his cohorts play cards.
ROCKET
I would love to join you but my
bowels are telling me otherwise.
BLUE
Again? I don’t think so, you
pretty little Richie Rich. Sit
your ass down over here.
MEATES
Let him take a dump. He's not going
anywhere.
ROCKET
(to Blue)
Tell you what fag boy, after you're
done kissing his ass, why don't you
come in here and wipe mine?
Blue makes a move toward Rocket. Meates holds up his hand.
MEATES
Blue. Save it for later.
Blue bares his ugly, crooked teeth.
SWAT has arrived. The TEAM LEADER huddles with Monica near
the tracks. Big Sally stares at the scene in awe.
MONICA
Each coach has emergency breakout
windows and escape hatches on the
roof. We will cut off the last
coach for your team. The train
engineer will pull the rest of the
train away leaving it isolated.
TEAM LEADER
Schematics?
92.
MONICA
Posted on the station wall. You
need your people out of sight.
Expect arrival shortly.
(indicates Big Sally)
Railroad supervisor who can fill in
any blanks. He's okay.
INT. TRAIN - LOCOMOTIVE - NIGHT - TRAVELING
Bobby shakes hands with Ted and Dave. A dishevelled Jessica

weakly waves her acknowledgement. Bobby opens the door
leading back to the walkway through the diesel compartment.
BOBBY
Ready?
JESSICA
Another adventure? Oh boy, I’m so
happy we decided to do it your way.
INT. TRAIN - DIESEL COMPARTMENT - NIGHT - TRAVELING
Diesel motor RUMBLES. Air HISSES from the valves. Bobby and
Jessica file along the dimly lit corridor. The coach door
comes into view offering a brightly lit vestibule.
INT. TRAIN - VESTIBULE - NIGHT - TRAVELING
Bobby digs out coveralls and safety harnesses from a crew

kit. Jessica examines the fluorescent straps.
JESSICA
A little bondage to top off the
evening? Must have dozed off
during that part of the orientation
because it wasn’t in the brochure.
Bobby holds up a long handled flashlight and shines it on

Jessica.
JESSICA (CONT’D)
Forget I said that.
Meates and his men are playing cards. Rocket can be heard
from the adjoining room.
93.
ROCKET (O.S.)
And the sheeeets keep on coming.
BLUE
(loud)
Put a sock in it before I put my
fist in it.
MEATES
(to Blue)
Be a good boy and relax.
Meates points to the door.
MEATES (CONT’D)
(to Burns)
Shut that damn door.
Burns gets up, then hesitates.
MEATES (CONT’D)
Relax. Just close it.
Burns SLAMS shut the door shut.
Bobby and Jessica move quickly along the aisle through the
coach. All is quiet. Bobby takes Shirley's walkie talkie
from the charging holder and hands it to Jessica.
Except for Big Sally and Monica the station appears deserted.
BIG SALLY
You've done very well for yourself
Monica. This kind of operation is
a helluva lot of responsibility.
MONICA
Thank goodness it doesn't happen
every day. I trust we won't have
problems with your crew doing this
maneuver?
BIG SALLY
One thing you can count on about
railroaders, they always put the
passenger's safety ahead of
everything else.
94.
MONICA
You must feel good about that. I'm
sure you've had a hand developing
that mind set.
BIG SALLY
To be honest I've started to think
of the mistakes over the years.
Decisions I thought were best at
the time, but in retrospect...
(beat)
When I saw you earlier I, well I...
A train WHISTLE. They turn to a headlight blazing in the

distance. Monica gently takes his arm.
MONICA
Showtime Salvatore.
Meates cups his hands and peers through the window.
MEATES
We're slowing down.
(to Burns)
Grab diarrhea Dick in the crapper .
Meates points toward the vestibule door.
MEATES (CONT’D)
Blue, check outside. See anything
funny, don't hesitate.
Burns goes into the washroom area of the adjacent room.
MEATES (CONT’D)
Let's stay sharp gentlemen.
Everyone checks their weapons. Burns signals from the room.
BURNS
Boss, you better come in here.
The passenger train pulls slowly beside the platform. Ted

detrains and saunters over to Big Sally and Monica.
95.
INT. TRAIN - CUSTOM COACH - NIGHT
Meates stands with Burns and Frye looking down at Rocket who
is slumped forward on the toilet.
BURNS
Dead as a mackerel.
Frye touches Rocket's neck.
FRYE
Cold as a hooker's heart. Must
have got that jungle fever the
attendant was yapping about.
Blue sticks his head into the room.
BLUE
Better come have a look. We got
some serious shit going down.
MEATES
For Christ's sake. Just leave him
here. Shut the door.
Ted huddles with Big Sally and Monica beside the train. Dave
climbs down the ladder and joins in. Ted shrugs at him.
TED
They want to cut off the last
coach?
DAVE
No problem. How many times are we
doing this tonight?
MONICA
What are you talking about?
DAVE
Bobby and that FBI girl Jessica had
us bunch the slack so they could
cut off the last coach back there.
He points in the direction from which the train arrived.
BIG SALLY
Are you out of your mind?
96.
MONICA
Salvatore please.
(to Dave)
Tell me everything.
EXT. TRACKS - REMOTE AREA - NIGHT
The coach stands isolated in near darkness. The exterior

lights are dim. Meates and his guys climb off, weapons
drawn. They creep along to the rear of the coach. Through
the darkness they spot a truck, interior lights on.
MEATES
Spread out.
Dave, Ted and Shirley huddle together watching SWAT and FBI
agents stand ready as Monica talks into her headset.
MONICA
Red One this is Red Leader, over.
EXT. TRACKS - REMOTE AREA - NIGHT
Meates and the thugs have the truck surrounded. They inch
forward. The doors are opened wide. The interior light
shines down on the dash illuminating the Faberge egg.
MEATES
Check the back.
Burns and Frye level their guns into the cargo box.
FRYE
Empty.
The SOUND of a distant helicopter is heard.
BURNS
Keys are in the ignition.
MEATES
Blue, get in that side. Burns,
Frye, climb in the back. get in.
Get in. Move it for Chrissake.
Blue climbs in as Meates slips into the driver's seat. Frye

and Burns scramble into the back. The doors are slammed
shut. The flaming decals can now be seen.
97.
The High Railer is fired up. Headlights shine. The truck

sits on a set of railway tracks.
Rocket, Bobby, Jessica and Francois peer at the truck from

the roof of the coach. Behind them the escape hatch is open.
ROCKET
Bobby, time to make the call.
INT. HIGH RAILER - REMOTE AREA - NIGHT - TRAVELING
Meates cannot steer off the tracks. The console phone RINGS.
Blue tries to lift the Faberge egg. It is stuck to the dash.
MEATES
Don't touch that egg. How do you
activate this phone?
BOBBY (V.O.)
Voice activated shit head. The egg
is glued to the dash. You won't
need it where you're going.
INTERCUT with Bobby on roof of coach.
BOBBY (CONT’D)
Arrangements have been made for you
to surrender before it's too late.
Bobby and everyone watch the truck drive off in the distance.
A helicopter approaches with an oscillating search light.
MEATES
Like that would ever happen.
BOBBY
That or catch the express train.
It should be coming along soon.
Meates drives with urgency as Blue stares straight ahead.
MEATES
Thanks for the offer, but I’ll
pass. I've had enough of trains
for one lifetime.
BOBBY
You've never had a ride like this.
By the way, to finish answering
your question, yes, you really do
look stupid.
98.
INT. HELICOPTER - NIGHT - FLYING
Lefty looks down at the High Railer speeding south. A

northbound express train appears. The distance between grows
closer by the second. A collision is inevitable.
EXT. TRAIN STATION (VIRGINIA) - DAY
BAM. A small foot CRUSHES a soda can. The red contents

fizzle and squirt from the crushed battered remnant. The
little BOY runs off to wreak havoc elsewhere.
The station’s parking lot has been transformed. Streamers

and balloons hang everywhere. A MARIACHI BAND plays MUSIC.
PASSENGERS mill about enjoying barbecued food and drinks.
Jessica sits at a table with Rocket and Bobby watching the

TRAIN CREW interact with the travelers.
JESSICA
Nice to do this for everyone.
ROCKET
Seeing how their cars won't be here
for awhile it was the least we
could do. Besides, Big Sally has
an expense account.
BOBBY
Wonder where he is?
HOWARD approaches carrying an elegantly wrapped package.
HOWARD
Mr. O'Brien. Christie's hopes
you'll be most pleased with your
merchandise. We look forward to
seeing you again in the future.
Howard offers the parcel to Bobby.
HOWARD (CONT’D)
Your Trans-Siberian Railway Faberge
egg sir.
Bobby accepts the packet. Howard points to the train.
HOWARD (CONT’D)
I've heard trains are a boring mode
of transport.
Bobby looks at Jessica.

99.
BOBBY
It's better if you have an activity
partner.
HOWARD
Yes, of course. Good day to you.
Howard bows and takes his leave.
JESSICA
Thing I don’t get, why did you have
a dummy of Rocket on the train?
ROCKET
The twins of deception? Bobby's
buddy made one of each of us.
BOBBY
We knew Big Sally would eventually
show up on the train. After our
ventriloquist act, we figured that
would be the day. We were going to
set them up in the bar car.
ROCKET
He would totally freak, thinking
we'd drank ourselves to death. By
the time he went to call an
ambulance, we'd have switched and
Big Sally would look like a dummy.
JESSICA
Of course, what was I thinking?
What's the plan now?
Bobby nudges Jessica. Big Sally and Monica walk arm in arm
from the station to their table. Rocket and Bobby stand.
ROCKET
We’ve decided to resign. Bobby?
Bobby offers a sheet of paper. Big Sally refuses to take it.
BOBBY
Our resignations, signed and
everything.
MONICA
I believe formal declarations must
be presented to a Railway
Superintendant?
Rocket and Bobby look at each other for a moment.

100.
ROCKET
With all due respect ma'am, what
exactly would you call him?
BIG SALLY
Sorry boys, took my pension twenty
minutes ago. You'll have to hang
in there for awhile until you can
deliver that to my replacement.
BOBBY
How long might that be?
BIG SALLY
Sometime this month, or next.
Big Sally laughs as he walks off with Monica arm in arm.
ROCKET
Is that Francois? Who's she?
That's not, no way, it couldn't be.
Cher?
Rocket angles for a better look. Francois walks arm and arm
with a BEAUTIFUL WOMAN. Dark hair, gorgeous figure,
sparkling smile. Bobby simply turns his head toward Jessica.
Their eyes lock into each others with a deep intensity.
SUPERIMPOSE: FIVE YEARS LATER
EXT. CARIBBEAN BEACH - DAY
Sunshine reflects off a helicopter hovering along the shore

with ISLAND TOURS printed on the side. Big Sally and Monica
look out from behind cockpit controls.
Off shore rocks a catamaran with PUSSY CAT stenciled on the

pontoon. Rocket stands with two shapely girls wearing skimpy
tops with CREW printed on them. They wave toward the beach.
A BOY, five, waves back. He picks up a seashell and turns,

proudly displaying his treasure. SCOOP printed on his cap.
SCOOP
Look mommy, look daddy, another one
for my collection.
Bobby and a pregnant Jessica smile back as they stand arm in

arm alongside the surf.
FADE OUT.

The Twins of Deception

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The Twins of Deception

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THE TWINS OF DECEPTION

INT. RAILWAY HQ. - MODEL TRAIN ROOM - DAY

A Passenger train comes around the curve SOUNDING a series of

Steel wheels POUND the rails. WHISTLE warnings are PIERCING.

The trains race toward each other. Closer. A crash is about

BIG SALLY, sixties, looks up from his sophisticated model

FRANCOIS has his hands on his hips. Waiting. He could be a

INT. CHRISTIE'S AUCTION HOUSE (NEW YORK) - DAY

The AUCTIONEER displays a Faberge egg. Translucent green and

BOBBY and ROCKET O'BRIEN, late thirties, observe the action

Bobby checks his watch. Rocket winks at the Redhead. His

EXT. CHRISTIE'S AUCTION HOUSE - DAY

Bobby and Rocket slide into a waiting limousine.

INT. LIMOUSINE - DAY - TRAVELING

Bobby holds a large, thick book with a plain jacket. He

The radio NEWSMAN is heard as the privacy window lowers.

The DRIVER mutes the radio and turns to his passengers.

EXT. RAILWAY HQ. (FLORIDA) - DAY

A sleek, modern building boasts palm trees beside a twisted,

INT. RAILWAY HQ. - BIG SALLY'S OFFICE - DAY

Big Sally swaggers in with cocky arrogance. He spots MEATES

Tough looking Meates has the grid-iron look of determination

He waves the photo in Big Sally's face.

Big Sally takes the photo and pretends to study it closer.

INT. RAILWAY HQ. - RECEPTION AREA - DAY

Francois stands as Big Sally struts in with Meates.

Francois glides with grace and elegance to inspect the photo

Francois reaches out and removes a piece of lint from Meates’

Francois taps Meates’ arm and postures his suit.

Meates has no interest in Francois nor his apparel.

Francois selects an envelope stamped TRAINEE INFORMATION.

Meates carefully takes the envelope by its edge.

Meates leaves. Francois peeks into the hallway to be sure.

Francois primps and preens in the mirror.

Big Sally doesn't wait for a response. He slams his office

EXT. TRAIN STATION (VIRGINIA) - DAY

Chaotic but organized. REDCAPS carry luggage. PASSENGERS

A limousine glides to a stop. The driver steps lively to

Bobby and Rocket head toward the station.

EXT. TRAIN - RURAL AREA - DAY

INT. TRAIN - DINING COACH - DAY - TRAVELING

INT. TRAIN - LOCOMOTIVE - DAY - TRAVELING

Engineers TED and DAVE occupy the large seats. Scenery

INT. TRAIN - CUSTOM COACH - DAY - TRAVELING

CHER stares from the monitor. Bobby studies her. MUSIC

INT. TRAIN - DINING COACH - DAY - TRAVELING

Shirley comforts a pregnant MOTHER who is near tears. The

Rocket’s statement results in a cease-fire. He now has the

Bradley crosses the aisle. Rocket winks at the Mother.

INT. TRAIN - CUSTOM COACH - DAY - TRAVELING

Bobby straightens a collection of bobbing head sports figures

INT. RAILWAY HQ. - TRAINING ROOM - DAY

Ten railway TRAINEES examine railroad posters. Uniforms are

The Trainees promptly sit. Francois methodically inspects

Lyle is up and out the door in a flash nearly bowling over

JESSICA SAVAGE enters. Heads turn, eyes riveted. Her look

Francois gives her the once over.

Big Sally seizes the moment.

Big Sally wastes little time departing.

INT. TRAIN - CUSTOM COACH - DAY - TRAVELING

Cher looks down from posters as Rocket enters. Bobby closes

Rocket displays his cell.

Bobby hands him two keys.