JOE DELANEY
This screenplay registered as “Diamond in the Ruff” is registered (WGA) and written by:
W. J. Machin
Tel 310.922.551
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L.A.InternationalAirport: Evening:
Traffic is heavy. A limo pulls onto the departure level and heads toward the International Terminal.
Int: Limo: Same:
In the rear seat, Charlie Raines. Tall, slender, pleasant looking, mid 40’s. He’s wearing island vacation garb and taking in the sights of the airport with first-time traveler enthusiasm.
The driver is Hakim, a middle eastern, Saudi decent. He’s working through traffic, hurrying to make the flight, checks his mirror and makes a quick move around a shuttle.
Hakim
What made you decide on Jamaica?.
Charlie pulls an airline ticket from his carry on bag.
Charlie.
My sister sent me a ticket... and the limousine...
Hakim glances at the ticket in the rear view mirror.
He knows something about this.
Hakim
It seems you have a very special sister
Charlie. (proudly)
Yeah, Christina’s one in a million.
Ext: International Terminal: Same:
The limo pulls up, Hakim hops out, circles and gets the door. As Charlie steps out, Hakim goes to the rear and hauls out a piece of luggage, checks his watch.
Hakim
We don't have much time………
Int: Terminal: Same
The flight info screen lists the flight to Jamaica, departing in 40 minutes.
Off to one side a well dressed Hispanic Man, early 40’s, Hollywood agent type. An attractive Blonde Woman, mid 30’s, once a model, but a few years past the game is standing with him.. The Man appears anxious as he watches Hakim and Charlie walk to the VIP counter.
Hakim sets the luggage down and Charlie pulls a $20 bill from his pocket.
Charlie
Thank you Hakim
Hakim rejects the tip.
Hakim.
It's all taken care of......
He exits the terminal and in BG, we SEE him get back in the limo.
Charlie steps to the counter.
Attendant.
Name please.
Charlie pulls his passport and ticket from the travel bag:
Charlie.
Charlie Raines.. Charles...
The attendant quickly processes the boarding pass and directs Charlie toward the departure gate. The couple watching as he steps onto the escalator.
Int: Same: Security Check Point:
Charlie takes his place in line and draws the attention of a seasoned traveler.
Traveler
First time to Caribbean..?
Charlie
Yes.. First time off the continent actually. How about you?
Traveler
I’ve been all over.... Jamaica's pretty but you have to be careful…You’ll be okay if you stick close to the big hotels.
Charlie
I wasn’t planning on any safaris.
Traveler
And don't hire an independent taxi. People get in those things and are never seen again.
Beyond the security gate, two TSA employees are watching Charlie.
He’s their guy. Charlie puts his carry-on in a container and pushes it along the conveyor. He passes through without incident and the two TSA employees approach.
1st TSA Employee
Excuse me sir. Would you please get your things and come with me.
Charlie
What...? Is something wrong?
1st TSA Employee
Just come with me.
Charlie collects his things and follows the TSA Employee, who keys open a side door. They walk through and it closes behind them.
The other TSA employee walks to the top of the escalator and looks down at the Hispanic Man, nods, then returns to his duties.
Ext: Main Terminal: Limo: Same
The Hispanic Man and the Blonde Woman EXIT the terminal and get in the limo. The man makes gestures to Hakim in frustration.
Hakim makes a gesture referring to the heavy traffic. Now, the limo pulls away and OUT OF FRAME.
Int: Security Gate: Same:
The seasoned Traveler passes through the checkpoint and as he gathers his things:
Traveler
What was that all about?
2nd TSA Employee (above a whisper)
We found currency. He’s laundering money.
Traveler
Wow, that guy was smooth. Totally sold me on the rookie tourist thing……
CUT TO:
Ext: Sepulveda Blvd: Same
The limo exits the airport, merges into traffic and heads north.
Off to one side, WE SEE a billboard featuring the silhouette of a slender model, wearing a men’s dress hat, tilted forward in spy fashion. A sparkling diamond ring on her ring finger is the highlight of the ad.
HOLD on the billboard:
The caption reads “There’s Magic in the Mystery”
“Cartier International”
CUT TO:
SOUNDTRACK FADES UP and WE HEAR John Lee Hooker “Boogie Chillin”
Ext: Hollywood Hills: Late Afternoon:
A near-new Ford pick up makes it’s way uphill through the narrow streets. Behind the wheel is Joe Delaney, late 30s, clean, unpretentious, wearing blue jeans, Nike’s and a loose, long sleeve shirt, the cuffs unbuttoned.
In the bed of Joe's truck is his dog Teddy, a Shepherd, Malamute mix, loaded with personality and a sense for the right people.
Ext: Joe's House: Same:
A modest 2-bedroom home on the hillside overlooking Hollywood and Century City. The house and yard reflect Joe’s personality. Orderly, not obsessive.
As Joe pulls in the driveway, the automatic garage door opens. Inside, WE SEE a vintage Indian Motorcycle parked at the back wall, near the door that leads into the house.
Next-door, an elderly lady, wearing a wide brimmed straw hat is working in her flower garden.
SOUNDTRACK Begins to FADE:
Joe gets out of the truck. Teddy jumps from the bed and goes to greet the neighbor.
Joe (pleaseant)
Hi Inga. I like the new hat.
Inga (pleased)
Thank you Joe. It’s a gift from a nice gentleman in my ballroom dance class.
She pets the dog:
Hello Teddy.
Joe
Well, now I’m jealous.
Inga
Sorry but you had your chance.
Joe
Yep. Should have made my move. The garden looks great.
Inga gives Joe a “Thank you” wave. As she goes back to her flowers.
Inga
By the way, Rosa was here today.
Joe
Great. I wonder what she accidentaly threw away this time..
Joe heads inside and Teddy hurries to follow.
Int: Joe's House:
The door from the garage opens to the kitchen area with an eating counter. Beyond is the living room with glass doors that open to a deck and the view of the city.
Teddy trots past Joe and heads for his kibble, Joe surveys the clean surroundings, pick up a note from the counter, reads it and goes to the fridge. As he does:
Joe
Teddy..!
(the dog looks up)
Your socks are in the dryer......
He tosses the note aside. Grabs a cold Tecate from the fridge.
Teddy goes at the kibble. Joe crosses to the living room, sets his beer
on the coffee table, picks up a cordless handset.
On a table next to the couch WE SEE a small framed picture of Joe’s dad in full racing attire. The autograph reads, “To my best student. Love, Dad”.
Joe hits the auto-dialer. After a moment there's no answer. He sets the phone on the coffee table and lays back, WINCING from back pain.
Pause;
He remembers something:
Joe
Shit......
He raises up just enough to reach the phone, trying not to aggravate his back. He punches in a number.
Joe (on the phone)
Jeff... I almost forgot. Sean’s coming in tomorrow. He’s not happy with the Aston Martin.
(beat)
No, I thought I’d let you handle it.
(chuckles)
You’re welcome
(beat)
It’s hurting a little. Thank God it didn’t spasm.
(beat)
No.. It's around here somewhere. I tried to call it but it's set on vibrate.... I'll see you tomorrow.
He hits the off button and closes his eyes. Teddy comes over
and lays nearby.
FADE TO: Smokey, out of focus IMAGES and the SOUNDS of a sports car race. the engine whine, changing gears, cars whizzing past. NOW, tires squeal and a hard collision, (beat) emergency vehicles sirens.(echo)
BACK TO SCENE: Later: Early Evening:
Joe is asleep on the couch. Camera PANS up to the view from the patio deck. The lights of the city are glowing.
TELEPHOTO OUT, over Century City to the ocean and WE SEE the lights of a boat, several miles off shore.
HOLD on the lights and CUT TO:
Pacific Ocean: Evening: Establish:
ON THE SOUNDTRACK: World Beat thumps in BG.
A large Yacht is at anchor, lit up from bow to stern.
A few of the high-end gathering are enjoying cocktails on the rear deck.
PAN around to the stern and HOLD.
WE SEE the Yacht is Saudi Arabian registry.
Aboard the Yacht:
In the main level Salon, near the refreshment bar, Douglass McVey, an executive from Cartier is talking with a beautiful dark haired model, Christina Raines. - Bright Star Agency’s newest find.
Christina is 24, angular and full figured. She’s extremely bright, good sense of humor and a hint of tomboy. She’s not a foo-foo girl. She’s the model in the Cartier billboard ad.
Douglass
I have to tell you Cristina, Cartier is very pleased to have someone with your character and talent representing our line.
Christine
Thank you Douglass. It’s been a dream of mine. I feel very fortunate.
Douglass
I'm sure. Hopefully this evening will turn out well for all of us.
(beat)
I wonder what happened to Anthony?
Cristina
You mean my agent Mr. Perez? Or should I say “new” agent.
Douglass
He’s usually the life of the party at these fund raisers.
(aside) Good agent but a pain in the ass….
Christina laughs:
A member if the Al Rashid family, Amar, approaches and shakes Douglass’ hand. Amar is 24, fresh, naive and completely loyal to his Prince.
Amar (graciously)
How do you do Mr. McVey. I am Amar Hamaan Al Rashid, nephew of Prince Badar Hussein Al Rashid.
Douglass
How do you do. I’d like you to meet Miss Christina Raines. She’ll be representing our international line.
Amar bows his head, extends both hands in a warm handshake with Christina.
Amar
It's a pleasure Miss Raines. The prince is attending to a business matter and will be with you both shortly……May I suggest a cold drink?
Amar gestures to the bartender.
Amar
Something for our friends please.
The bartender sets two glasses up.
Amar
If you’ll excuse me. I have a lot of hands to shake and a lot of names to remember before the Prince arrives.
Christina
It takes a special talent to do what you do.
Amar
It’s my first time. However, so far so good… Mr. McVey, Miss Raines.
He moves away:
Christina
They certainly are gracious people.
Douglass
They can be. But they can be extremely difficult when it comes to negotiating.
(beat)
How about a Perrier and lime?
Christina
Yes, thank you.
The bartender goes about pouring the drinks
FADE TO:
Int: Below Deck: Same:
Scene opens in a long corridor. The appointments are lush red carpet, gleaming wood paneling and ornate light fixtures, etc.
As WE MOVE along the corridor, music from the main deck fades.
Now, the sound of an intimidating VOICE followed by a muffled, painful cry coming from inside a Suite
Int: Suite: Same:
CLOSE on the head of a hooded captive. He’s whimpering in pain.
OFF SCREEN: A deep voice:
Voice (impatient)
………….Again.!
The captive is struck across the head with a rubber sap. He cries out in pain and a HAND muffles his mouth.
Int: Same: Close on Prince Badar Hussein Al Rashid
(Badar) Mid 40s, handsome, charismatic, penetrating eyes, dark hair slicked back, wearing a Cream colored 3 piece silk suit, black silk shirt with a gold and black silk tie. An angry glare as he directs the torture.
Badar
You’re a fucking thief.. and not worthy of the air in this room
He gestures to Muhammad, who’s been applying the torture, to remove the hood. Muhammad is huge and thick, dark hair, seedy eyes. An imposing figure.
He snatches the hood from the captives head, we see the fear and pain in the tortured mans’ expression.
Badar moves close, bends in:
Badar
One last time. Where’s my package!
Captive
Your highness. I have done nothing. I delivered it just as you instructed. As Allah is my witness.. Just as you instructed.
Badar straightens his jacket, adjusts his tie. He’s had enough of this.
As he starts to EXIT the suite:
Badar (to Muhammad)
Rid me of this piece of shit
Captive (pleading)
No your highness. I beg......
Muhammad muffles his mouth.
CUT TO:
Int: Main Level: Same:
The mood is harmonious. Laughter mixed with the chitchat.
Just OUTSIDE, Badar composes himself and WE SEE him transform into the charming Prince.
Amar spots him, moves quickly to the door as the Prince steps inside.
Amar
To all our guests. May I present His Highness, Prince Badar Hussein Al Rashid.
A round of light applause as Amar begins the introductions. Badar is warm, gracious. shaking hands and complimenting the beautiful models.
Int: Douglass and Christina: Same
They seem impressed with the manner and charisma of the prince. Now, he approaches:
Amar
Mr. McVey, Miss Raines. May I introduce my Prince, His Highness, Badar Hussein Al Rashid.
Badar
It’s my great pleasure to meet you both.
Douglass
Thank you your highness. Our pleasure as well.
Badar
Please. I get my fill of the royal exercises. It’s rare that I can enjoy a casual occasion with such distinguished (looks at Christina) and beautiful company.
Christina
Thank you.
Badar
Amar… Entertain Miss Raines while I discuss the diamond business with Mr. McVey.
Amar (bows)
Certainly your highness.
Follow as Badar leads Douglass toward a secluded lounge area behind the main salon. As this happens:
Int: Cristina and Amar: Same:
Christina
How did it go for your first time?
Amar
I think I have it going on.
He directs her attention to the guests and begins naming each of them. Christina is amused and impressed.
Int: Short Time Later: Same
Badar and Douglass return to the party. Christina makes eye contact with Douglass and his expression says they have a deal.
NOW, another Executive approaches Badar. One of the models would like a personal introduction. Badar agrees. Douglass excuses himself and crosses to where Cristina and Amar are talking.
Douglass (to Christina)
How would you feel about doing the layout in Morocco?
Christina
Morocco?
Douglass
He has a home there and he’ll fund the entire ad campaign.
Amar (enthusiastic)
You’ll love Morocco. It’s an amazing city. And the Prince’s home is quite remarkable. It will be a once in a lifetime experience.
Christina
I guess were going to Morocco......
First thing tomorrow I’m call everybody I know
Douglass
You'll have to call from the airport. We're leaving tonight.
Christina
Just like that…?
Douglass
Now you know why we asked you to pack a bag.
Int: On Badar; Same
He’s engaged in small talk with a tall busty, extremely hot looking model. He glances at Christina and WE SEE his desire.
He wants Christina for his own.
Back to Douglass and Christina:
Douglass
One more thing. He’s asked that you ride to the airport with him. In his personal limo.
Christina (stunned)
In a limo with a Prince? What do I do? What do I say?
Douglass (calming)
Just be yourself. And if he asks about business tell him your agent handles those things.
Christina contemplates the assignment:
Christina
I can do that..
FADE TO:
Ext: Near LAX: Short Time Later: Badar's Limo
WE recognize the limo as the one from the opening sequence at LAX.
Another limo with Douglass follows close behind.
Int: Badar's Limo: Same:
Hakim, the driver from the opening sequence at LAX is at the wheel. This time the privacy window is closed.
In the rear, Badar makes charming small talk, Christina appears relaxed and enjoying the experience. Badar glances out the window, something unsettling in his gaze.
Badar
It’s interesting your agent isn’t here to escort you.
This is a big night for both of you.
Christina15
Something very important must have come up.
Badar looks at her, charming smile:
Badar
I’m sure that’s it...
Ext: LAX: Same:
The limos pass the International Terminal and head through an access gate, across the Tarmac and stop near the Prince’s 757. A hydraulic boarding platform is in place.
Hakim gets the doors and Christina and Badar step out.
Douglas exits the other limo and his driver retrieves luggage from
the boot.
On Christina: She expected to have time to make some calls.
Cristina
Would you excuse me for a moment..?
Badar