Parent Trap Script

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The Parent Trap

THE PARENT TRAP

Screenplay by

Nancy Meyers and Charles Shyer

February 21, 1997

THE PARENT TRAP

FADE IN:

EXT. MOUNTAIN ROAD - SOUTHERN MAINE - DAY

A caravan of THREE CAMP BUSES with the name CAMP WALDEN FOR
GIRLS emblazoned on their sides climb a tree-lined road. The Buses turn down a
narrow lane and pass through a freshly painted wooden gate as the CAMERA RISES giving us a
sweeping view of beautiful CAMP WALDEN. A magnificent lake sparkles in the distance
with red canoes lined up on its shores. over this quiet serenity we HEAR the Bus HORNS
HONKING to announce the first day of camp has officially begun.

EXT. MAIN LODGE - CAMP WALDEN
Girls. Girls. Girls. Tall ones, short ones and
everything in between. Some carry pillows, others carry stuffed animals, all wear
backpacks. There are more pony-tails swinging at this moment than you can
imagine. Teenage Counselors try to control the pandemonium without much luck.
The only men in sight, the Bus Drivers,. toss duffel bags out of the buses and into a
large pile.
MARVA KULP, the owner of the Camp, late sixties, four and a half feet
tall, wearing khaki shorts, talks through a BULLHORN. Next to her stands her
daughter and first lieutenant, MARVA JR., just under six feet, tanned and humorless.
She also holds a BULL-HORN.
MARVA SR.

(into bull-horn)

Good morning, ladies and welcome to Camp Walden. I'm
Marva, your Camp Director and this is my daughter and right hand man, Marva, Jr. Girls,
please find your duffels as quickly as possible, we've got a big, big day ahead of
us. Marva,'bunk assignments, if you please.
Marva Jr. lifts her BULL-HORN and starts barking out bunk assignments
right into her Mother's ear. Marva Sr. covers her ears in pain.
MARVA JR.

Berg, Kate, Iroquois, bunk seven Berg, Lily! Chickasaw,
bunk five!

(we HEAR a SCREAM of joy) Burnham, Daisy! Kickapoos, bunk
three!
2
A MOUNTAIN OF DUFFEL BAGS sits
on the quad as one eleven year-old, Hallie Parker, pops up from behind the huge pile.
Hallie

(to herself)
okay, found my duffel, now the question is, how do I get it out?
Hallie wears overalls, a baseball cap that says Girls Rule, sunglasses,
and a sweat-shirt tied around her waist. Her ears. are pierced, her hair is short,
she wears bright red high tops and metallic blue nail polish.
Hallie

(finding her duffel bag strap)

Okay, I can do it.
Hallie pulls on the strap with all her might, her face turning bright
red.
Hallie

Okay, no I can't.
A skinny kid with a long neck, ZOE, steps in, carrying her duffel bag on
her shoulder and chewing gum.
ZOE

You must be new.
Hallie

How can you tell?
ZOE

You didn't know to grab your duffel before the apes tossed it
into the heap. I would say you need some serious help.
Hallie

Thanks. it's the big blue one.
ZOE

(helps Hallie pull on the

strap)

Cool hat.
Hallie
Thanks, it was a going away gift from my Dad.
As Zoe and Hallie pull on the strap together, the Bus Drivers

toss another half-dozen new duffels onto the pile. Hallie
and

Zoe shoot the Bus Drivers a look. Just then, NICOLE, a strapping
ten year-old in a tie-dye T-shirt, beads and a bandana around her head arrives and easily
pulls her duffel from the center of the pile.
Hallie

Now that's my kind of woman.
ZOE
(cups hands around her mouth)

Hey! Tie-Dye girl!
Nicole turns around.
Hallie

Would you mind giving me a hand? My duffells the red one,
way in there.
Nicole nods and drops her duffel. It LANDS right on Zoe's foot.
Hallie

You okay?
ZOE

(grabbing her foot)

That would be negative.
Nicole yanks Hallie's duffel out of the pile and drops it on Zoe's other
foot.

ZOE

Aaaahhh! Why, thank you.
NICOLE

(smiles)

You're welcome.
(reading name-tag on Hallie's duffel)

Hey, you're from California?
ZOE

You are? Do you live in Hollywood?
NICOLE
Do you like live next door to a movie star?
Hallie

-- What are you two, Lucy and Ethel?

I’ve never even been to Hollywood. I live in Napa,
that's in Northern California, and I live next door to a vineyard.
4

ZOE

A whatyard?
Hallie

A vineyard. It's where you grow grapes to make
wine. That's what we do, me and my I)ad, we own a vineyard. What bunk are you
guys in?
ZOE/NICOLE

(at the same time)

Arapaho.
Zoe and Nicole look at each other, not thrilled.
MARVA JR.

(yells from bull-horn)

Parker, Hallie...

Hallie

(yells back)

Yo! Right here!
MARVA JR.

(looks over and waves)

Arapaho! Bunk eleven!
The Girls slap hands and head off toward their bunk.
Hallie
So, either of you by any chance know how

to play poker?
(Nicole and Zoe shake their

heads)
No? That's a shame. So, tell me, how much cash did you guys bring
with you this summer?
As the Girls walk off, CAMERA BOOMS UP to a LIMOUSINE pulling up in
front of the MAIN LODGE. Heads turn as the Driver, in a dark suit and cap, hops out
and opens the limousine's back door. Out steps a PROPER BRITISH BUTLER, perfect
posture, elegant grey suit, extremely proper demeanor. His name is MARTIN and he
speaks with a stuffy ENGLISH ACCENT.
Martin leans into the back-seat and takes the hand of an elegantly
dressed eleven year-old, Annie James.
Annie wears a powder blue suit and carries a purse and a small vanity case. Her hair
is perfectly neat, shoulder length and worn with a powder blue head band. As Annie
turns to Martin, we see her face and we realize SHE LOOKS ECACTLY LIKE
Hallie Parker! Same hair color,
same eyes, same nose, same mouth, same height, same weight. Identical in every way.
5

MARTIN

Well, here we are - Camp Walden For

Girls.
(looks around, with disdain)

We travelled six thousand miles for... this?

Annie looks around. She also speaks with a BRITISH
ACCENT.

Annie

It's rather picturesque, wouldn't you

say?
MARTIN
I don't know if that's precisely the term

I would use.
Annie smiles as the Limo Driver lines up four pieces of matching luggage
by Martin's side.
MARTIN
So, lets review, your Mother's list, shall

we?
(pulls out a typed list)

Vitamins?
Annie

Check.
MARTIN

Minerals?
Annie

Check.
MARTIN
List of daily intake of fruits and vegetables?
Annie

Check. Check.

(Martin looks up)

Check for fruits, check for vegetables. Go on.

MARTIN
Herbal teas, sugarless candy, sun block, lip balm, insect repellent,
umbrella, stationary, stamps, fountain pen, flashlight, batteries, photos of your mother,
grandfather and of course....

(turns page)

Yours truly!
6

Annie

Got it all, I think.
MARTIN

Oh, and here's a little something from your

Grandfather, a
brand new deck of cards.

Maybe you'll find someone
on this continent

who can actually
whip your tush at poker.
Annie

I doubt it but
thanks. And thanks for

bringing me, Martin.
Martin is suddenly overwhelmed with emotion. He looks away, about
to burst into tears, quickly grabs Annie, hugs her tightly, then just as quickly - regains
his dignity.
MARTIN

And remember, if you change your mind and want me to pick you
up at the end of camp, I'm only a phone-call away.
Annie

I'll be fine. See you in eight weeks,

Marty ol’ pal.
MARTIN

Eight weeks it is, Queen of my Heart.
Annie puts out her hand, Martin places his hand over hers and they
proceed to do an extravagantly worked out SECRET HANDSHAKE - with all kinds of moves in it
including a butt bump, a wave under the chin and a shimmy to-and-fro. When it's
over, Martin resumes his proper Butler demeanor and gets into the Limo. As the Limo
pulls away, we HEAR:

MARVA JR.

Annie James?
Annie

Yes, hello. I apologize if I'm late. My plane was
fogged in leaving Heathrow. You )mow how- London is in June.
JR.

Can't say that I do. Never been to jolly 01- England but
never-the-less,.mllady, welcome to the U.S. of A. and what we like to think of as the most
beautiful spot on God's green earth - Camp Walden.

(takes a huge sniff of fresh air)

Oh, jeez, a bug flew up my nose.

(starts honking and swatting at

(MORE)
7
MARVA JR. (cont'd)

her nose and generally going

crazy)
Annie

Are you all right?
MARVA JR.

Oh sure. Just one of the hazards of camp life. You
have a little shnoz ... you-11 be fine.
(indicates her' own nose)

With this honker, you got problems.

(looks at Arnie's luggage)

Okey-dokey, let's get this show on the road.
Annie

Can you manage?
MARVA JR.

Manage? Uh, sure... Suppose I can... Why

not?
Marva Jr. awkwardly gathers up all of Annie's luggage and leads her
toward her bunk.

MARVA JR.

I know this sounds weird, but ... have we

met before?
-Marva accidentally steps in a gopher hole and stumbles forward...
Annie

Met before? No, no, I don't think so.

(catching her)

I'm positive I'd remember you.

EXT. ANNIE'S BUNK - THE NAVAJOS --A COUPLE OF MINUTES LATER
Marva Jr., huffing and puffing, leads Annie up the steps to her cabin.
MARVA JR.

Showers are to your right. Rec room's to your left.
Mess hall's straight ahead. Chow's at seven, twelve-fifteen and sixthirty.
Mother gives five demerits for being tardy, so don't be.
Marva Jr. holds the screen door open with her LEG as she balances
Annie's suitcases under her arms
8
MARVA JR

Welcome to the Navajos.

INT. NAVAJO BUNK
Eight cots with Seven Girls unpacking and getting into their
uniforms. Annie and Marva Jr. enter.
MARVA JR.

New arrival, girls. Name's James.
A cherubic-looking Black girl, JACKIE, her hair in corn rows, looks up
from her Game Boy.
JACKIE

Your name's James?

MARVA JR.

Annie James. Just arrived from London,

England.
(dropping Annie's luggage)

First time in the country, I believe,

right, Ann?
Annie

Yes, ma'am, just arrived this morning, which is actually
tonight for me, which makes this tomorrow morning, which... (notices everyone watching
her) makes me a ' bit jet-lagged.

(notices empty cot)

This one mine?
MARVA JR.

Yep. Has to be made every morning right after
reveille. Mother's a stickler for neatness, so remember to police your area
daily. Now, change into your uniform, James, chow's at thirteen hundred.and Mother
gives five demerits...
Annie

--for being-tardy. (MARVA stops short) I remember.
CROSBY, a freckled camper, with a CD Walkman around her neck, catches
Annie's eye and smiles.
Annie

.But thank you for reminding me, Ma'am.
9

MARVA JR

Quite welcome, James.
(as she exits)

Introduce yourself, ladies. Be sociable.
Marva trips over a sneaker on her way out. The Girls hold in their
laughter as she BANGS her head on the door frame. As soon as she's gone, the Girls
crack-up.
CROSBY '

How scary is it that that woman's in charge?

INT. DINING HALL - TWENTY MINUTES LATER.
A hundred and fifty Girls, all in camp uniforms, have arrived for
dinner. Two lines of Girls approach a central buffet table.
IN ONE LINE we find Hallie. IN THE OTHER LINE, headed right toward
her, is Annie. Both Annie and Hallie are busy talking to their friends and don't
notice each other.
As Annie reaches the front of the line and approaches the buffet table,
Hallie does the same. For a split second, they stand directly next to each
other. Just as they are about to see each other, Marva, Sr. steps between them with
a plate full of food.
MARVA SR.

Excuse me, girls ... I've just got to have

a scoop of those gorgeous strawberries.

(holding a large spoonful, turns to Hallie)

Care for some?
Hallie

Oh, no thanks, can't, I'm allergic.

Hallie takes her plate and moves off.

MARVA SR.

(turns to Annie on her other

side) .
How bout you, dear? Strawberries?
Annie

(moving off)

Sorry, wish I could but I'm allergic.
MARVA SR.

(confused, looks back to

Hallie, who is now gone)

Oh, yes, allergic, you just told me that.

(MORE)
I 0
MARVA SR. (cont'd)

How'd you get over there? Oh, well,

first day of camp... You'll have to

excuse the ol’ girl. At least I'm not Putting salt
in the sugar shakers yet. I mean, sugar in the...

(turns back to Annie, who is

also gone)

Now, where'd she go?

INT. SHOWER HOUSE - LATER THAT EVENING
Hallie ENTERS a shower stall and begins washing her hair. She
wears a small GOLD LOCKET around her neck. A beat later, Annie ENTERS the stall next
to her and turns on the water. She wears the IDENTICAL LOCKET. The Girls can
not see each other over the partition. Hallie drops her soap and it slides into
Annie's stall. Annie reaches over the partition and hands the soap back to
Hallie.
Annie

Here you go.
Hallie

Got it!
Thanks.
As their FINGERS TOUCH, they both STAND FROZEN for a moment... a current
of some sort running between them. They each TURN AND LOOK AT THEIR TOUCHING
HAMS. Then they both let go. Hallie lifts her locket, sucks on it. Annie
does -the exact same thing as she turns off the water...

EXT. CAMP - THE FOLLOWING DAY
A FENCING MATCH. Two Girls, each wearing nylon jackets and
wire-mesh masks are in the middle of a duel. The First Girl is whipping the Second's
butt, knocking her sword out of her hand and pinning her against the wall. The other
Campers applaud and cheer.
Both Girls take off their masks and we see Hallie is the victor.
MARVA JR.

Touche! Excellent, girls.

(raises Hallie's arm)

The winner and still undefeated champ, Hallie Parker!
Hallie takes a bow and moves off with her-friends. Annie,

Crosby and Jackie pass by in time to
MARVA JR.

Do we have any challengers?
Annie

(pulling on a mask)

Sure. I'll take a whack at it.
She snaps on a vest, flips the sword into the air and catches it, then
nods to Marva, Jr.
MARVA JR.

(blows her whistle)

En garde!
Hallie, still in her mask, turns to see Annie in her mask and
vest. Annie SALUTES briskly with her sword. Hallie hesitates, then does the
same. They stand on guard... looking like bookends. Marva, Jr. blows the
whistle again and...
THE DUEL BEGINS
Hallie lunges, Annie parries, then attacks. Hallie tries to knock
the sword out of Annie's hand but Annie deflects the blade, whirls around and
lunges. Point for Annie!
Hallie gets the jump on Annie and comes in low. Point!

Hallie lunges but Annie catches her sword and sweeps it in a
full circle pulling them together, mask-to-mask. They break.
Hallie charges but Annie side-steps and Hallie runs past her.
Hallie stops and whips around to find Annie lunging toward her. ..Hallie steps back, loses
her balance and falls butt-first into a WATER TROUGH, landing with a huge splash.
The Campers explode with laughter.
Annie reaches out to help Hallie but Hallie grabs Annie's hand and yanks
her into the trough. The Campers crack-up as the two Girls sit soaking,
side-by-side. They climb out together and angrily pull off their masks. Annie
tosses her long hair as Hallie shakes her short hair dry.
MARVA JR.

Looks like we got ourselves a new camp champ. Miss Annie
James! Let's'shake hands, girls.
Neither girl turns around.
MARVA JR.

Girls!
Annie and Hallie turn, hands extended. And for the first

time, THEY LOOK INTO EACH OTHER'S FACES. They freeze.

Speechless. it's like looking into a mirror. Hallie
extends

her hand...Annie reaches for it.
12.

CLOSE ANGLE - THEIR HANDS
as they touch, something electric again passes between them.

Annie AND Hallie

look down at their hands, then up at each other... not knowing
what to say. Just then, their friends join them and they immediately slip their
hands into their pockets - at the same time. Their friends stop in their tracks and
look from Annie to Hallie - stunned at the resemblance. The lunch bell RINGS and
everyone else on the lawn runs toward the Mess Hall.
Hallie

Why's everyone staring?
Annie

Don't
you see it?
Hallie

See
what?
Annie

The resemblance between us.
Hallie

Between you
and me?! A resemblance? Let

me see, turn
sideways ...

(Annie turns)

Now the other way...

(Annie does)

well, your eyes are much closer together than mine.
Your ears stick out, your teeth are crooked and that nose... well, don't worry,
those things can be fixed.
Zoe and Nicole laugh.
CROSBY

(to Annie)

Want me to deck her for you?

Hallie

Hold on, I'm not quite finished. You want

to )mow the real difference between us?
Annie

I have class and you don't? Or I know how

to fence and you don't? Take your pick.
Hallie angrily steps forward but Marva steps between them.
13

MARVA JR

Okay, ladies, time to break-up this

little love
fest. Annie... Hallie...

(notices how they look alike)

I mean,
Hallie... Annie...
The lunch bell RINGS again. Jackie and Crosby pull Annie away, as
Zoe and Nicole pull Hallie in the other direction.
ZOE

That girl is a major loser.
NICOLE

Yeah. Too bad you couldn't look like somebody cooler.
ANGLE - Annie AND HER PALS - TRACKING
Annie

Do we really look as much alike as I think we do?.
CROSBY

It's just a weird freak of nature. (slaps her on the
back)

Please accept my condolences.
Annie looks back at Hallie, who is sneaking a look at her. She
quickly turns away.

INT. ANNIE'S BUNK - THE NAVAJOS - NIGHT
CLOSE on a PILE of CHANGE, crumpled DOLLAR BILLS, CANDY BARS.
ANGLE BACK to see a Crowd of Girls watching a poker game Annie, with a Tootsie Pop
dangling from the side of her mouth, is playing with Four Older Girls and winning
big-time.
Annie

Sorry, ladies, read ‘em and weep.
Annie spreads out a full house. The Older Girls groan and toss in
their hands, as Annie rakes in the pot.
Annie

So... that's-it... no other takers?
LITTLE KID

You've already tooken everybody...
A CRISP NEW FIVE DOLLAR BILL floats on to the cot.
14

HALLIE'S VOICE

Not everybody.
ANGLE - Hallie
standing over Annie, a smile on her face.

CUT TO:
HALLIE'S HANDSS - SKILLFULLY-SHUFFLING A DECK OF CARDS
As she deals, we see A SERIES OF QUICK CUTS of Annie and Hallie, going
one-on-one... shuffling, dealing, drawing, bluffing... First Annie rakes in the pot...
then Hallie... then Annie... it's back and forth... until finally the entire pot sits in
front of Hallie and Annie is down to her last dollar.
Hallie

(tossing in her bet)

Three bucks.
Annie checks her hand... she's holding a straight. She bites her
lip... knowing she's holding a winning hand.
Hallie

Tell you what I'm gonna do, since you're almost tapped out...
I'll make you a deal. Loser jumps into the lake after the game.
Annie

Excellent.

Nude.
Annie

Even more excellent.

(revealing her hand)

Queen high straight.
Hallie

(spreads-a full house across

the blanket)

Start
unzipping, Princess... full-house.

EXT. LAKE - NIGHT
CAMERA IS CLOSE on Annie's CAMP UNIFORM as it falls to the sand.
Annie's BARE FEET step away from the clothes.
15.

ANGLE - THE GIRLS FROM THE POKER GAME
huddled on the shore holding candles. Hallie stands in the center
of the group, a content smile on her face.
ZOE

(watching Annie walk to lake)

That girl's butt looks awfully familiar.

(off Hallie's look)

It does!
CLOSE - Annie
She reaches the dock, teeth chattering. She turns back, looks at
the Girls. Hallie and her friends wave. Annie salutes them.
THE LAKE
as ANNIE'S LEGS gracefully slice through the water, in a perfect
dive. Annie pops up in the water, looks out at the Girls but THEY ARE GONE!
ANNIE'S WET FEET hurry across the sand and arrive at where her clothes
were but all that's left are her sneakers.
ANGLE - ANNIE'S WET AND SHIVERING FACE
Annie

(catching on)

Let the games
begin.

EXT. CAMP WALDEN - THE FOLLOWING I)AY
Hallie and her friends are trudging home after a hike. They're
hot, sweaty and tired.
Annie

I swear I heard that girl sneezing all the

way across the mess hall this morning.

(the others laugh, Hallie

yawns)

I'm so tired. I'm crawling back into
bed

and sleeping until lunch.
NICOLE

(stops, looking up at the roof

of their bunk)

That does not seem like a possibility.
Hallie

Why not?
16.

NICOLE

(pointing)

That's 'why not'.
Hallie stops in her tracks, her eyes rising to THE ROOF OF THE BUNK
where every single COT is now perched.
Hallie

No way.

EXT. CAMP WALDEN - NIGHT
Lights are out. Everything is quiet and peaceful. Suddenly,
THREE SHADOWY FIGURES run silently toward Annie's bunk.
INT. ANNIE'S BUNK - NIGHT
CAMERA PANS past a sleeping Jackie, Crosby and Annie. The door
squeaks open and Hallie steps inside. She signals the coast is clear" and
Nicole and Zoe tip-toe in carrying strange,

unidentifiable objects. They all quickly go to work and
we SEE: A jar of HONEY is opened and poured into a pair of Addidas. A can of SHAVING
CREAM is squirted onto a pillow-case.

A ball of TWINE is wound around a bedpost, then zigzagged
across the room.
An industrial-size can of CHOCOLATE M UP is emptied into a bucket.
WESSON OIL is poured all over the floor.
CUT TO:

MORNING - A SLEEPY SEVEN YEAR-OLD WITH A BUGLE

plays reveille... badly.

INT ANNIE'S BLINK - FOLLOWING MORNING
The bunk looks like one giant spider web. Mazes of string
everywhere. The sound of EMILLE reverberates through the room as the Girls get out
of bed, slide in the Wesson Oil, get stuck in the honey, trip over the string... lots of
yelling and screaming. Annie stands dripping in shaving cream.

Annie
She's without a doubt, the lowest, most awful creature that ever walked
the planet!
EXT. ANNIE'S BUNK - SAME TIME
Hallie, Zoe and Nicole are peeking in the windows, thrilled with their
achievement.
Hallie

(ala Elvis)

Thank you, thank you very much.
Just then, the Two Marva’s appear behind them, clipboards in hand.
MARVA SR.

'Morning, girls.
Hallie/NICOLE/ZOE

'Morning, Marva's.

(then, freaked out) Marva's?!?!
MARVA JR.

(climbing steps to Annie's bunk) Navajos... Surprise
inspection. Ten-shun! Mom, why don't you do the honors...
Marva Sr. nods and reaches for the screen door handle but Hallie rushes
to her.
Hallie

No, no, don't go in there!
Annie crosses to her side of the SCREEN DOOR and watches, wondering what
Hallie's up to.
Hallie

one of the girls got sick last night and it's a big mess.
Save yourself the aggravation. It's really disgusting.
MARVA, SR.

Well, if someone's sick, dear, then 1

must go in.-
She starts to OPEN the door, not realizing she's PULLING on a string
attached to a BUCKET that's about to tip right over her head. Hallie's eyes shoot up
to the bucket, then back to Marva, Sr.
No, really, let go of that door. I insist. She's highly
contagious.
18.

Annie

Actually, we're all fine in here. Unless Hallie Parker
knows something we don't know.

(Annie watches Hallie's eyes go up to the bucket)

Open the door and come on in, ma'am.
With that, Marva Sr. swings OPEN the door, TIPPING THE BUCKET which we
now see is filled with HERSHEY'S SYRUP. Marva Sr. is instantly covered head-to-toe
in CHOCOLATE. Marva Jr. : SCREAMS, slipping in the syrup and tumbling down the
stairs. Marva Sr. turns to Hallie, slowly wiping the syrup from her eyes.
OVER, we HEAR:
MARVA, SR. (V.0.)

Congratulations, ladies ...

INT. MARVAIS TENT - MOMENTS LATER
Annie and Hallie stand side-by-side as Marva Sr. paces in front of them,
holding a towel, still wiping off chocolate. Marva, Jr. stands at her side, also
spotted in chocolate.
MARVA, SR.

-- That little stunt was the most revolting display of
hooliganism ever to take place on these hollowed grounds.
MARVA JR.

A-men.
MARVA SR.

And worst of all, coming from two sisters who should be setting
an example for the entire...
Annie

we're not sisters, ma'am.

Marva Sr. turns, looks at them.

Hallie

-- We've never even seen each other

before.
MARVA SR.

That's impossible.
MARVA JR.

I'm afraid the look-alike thing has been the crux of the
problem, Chief.
19.

MARVA SR.

Well, whatever the excuse, I recommend

immediate dismissal.
Hallie

You're sending us home?
MARVA JR.

(sotto)
That does somehow say we failed, doesn't

it, Mom?
MARVA SR.

All right, all right... Let me just think...
MARVA JR.

(under her breath)

Uh-oh.
The Girls both bite their lockets, nervously awaiting their fate, as
MUSIC BEGINS.

EXT. CAMP GROUNDS - A LITTLE LATER (MUSIC OVER)
The Two Marva's lead Annie and Hallie away from their bunks and up a
long winding hill. Hallie balances her duffel bag .-on her shoulder, as Annie
struggles, her full of luggage. The rest of the Girls, and we mean, the ENTIRE CAMP,
marches in a line behind them.

INT. ISOLATION BUNK - A FEW MINUTES LATER
The Two Marvas catch their breath as they lead Annie and Hallie into a
bunk with just two cots and two trunks.
MARVA, SR.

we've got six weeks left at camp and you two are going to spend
every glorious one of them - together. You'll eat together, bunk together and do all
your activities together. Either you'll find a way to get along or you'll punish
yourselves better than I ever could.
MARVA JR.

You'll thank us for this, you'll see.
The Marvas exit, leaving Annie and Hallie alone and worse, with each
other. Annie lifts her suitcases onto the bed and neatly starts unpacking her
things. Hallie, on the other hand, flips
2 0.

open her trunk, unzips her duffel and shakes her things out like she's
emptying a bag of potato chips into a bowl.
A SIGN
that reads: Isolation Table - Do Not Disturb. CAMERA TILTS DOWN to
see Annie and Hallie eating at a table in the MESS KUL, directly under the sign.
They are separate from the other Campers and eat without speaking. Annie eats a well
balanced meal while she reads a book as Hallie munches on a cheeseburger and plays Game
Boy. They never look at each other.
INT. DANCE ROOM - DAY
Annie, wearing a black leotard, her hair in a bun, stands at the ballet
barre, practicing her plies to SWAN LAKE.
Hallie ENTERS in black bike shorts and sports bra, carrying a boom
box. She ignores Annie, turns on a JANET JACKSON CD and starts practicing a hip-hop
routine. Annoyed, Annie TURNS UP Swan Lake. Hallie BLASTS 7anet Jackson right
back at her.
INT. BATH HOUSE - NIGHT
Hallie stands in front of the mirror, in pajama bottoms and a T-shirt,
combing her wet hair. She wraps a towel around her -head as Annie's pal, Crosby
enters.
. CROSBY

(mistaking her for Annie)

Annie, hi! Oh, man, I can not believe they stuck you with
that Hallie person, I feel so bad for you.
Hallie

(doing her best ENGLISH ACCENT, which is pretty melodramatic)
You have no idea, luv. It's just bloody awful being in isolation with that dreadful
little monster. I do miss you so, daahling. Come give us a kiss... Right here
on my rosy little cheek. Come, come, don't be shy,.. I've been ev-uh so lonely.
Crosby gives Hallie a strange look, then kisses her awkwardly on the
cheek. Just then, Annie ENTERS, holding her toothpaste and toothbrush.
CROSBY

(leaping away)

Annie!
21.

Annie

Crosby?
Hallie

Guess that makes me Hallie.
Crosby's SCREAM is drowned out by the SOUND of ROLLING TH = ER.

E:XT. ISOLATION BUNK - ANOTHER DAY
It's pouring. The wind howls.

INT. ISOLATION BUNK - SAME TIM
Hallie, in flannel p.j.'s and a sweat-shirt, is pinning up postcards and
photos above her cot. Annie, in matching sweater and pants, plays solitaire.
Now and then, each sneaks a glance at the other.
A sudden GUST of wind blows the door open, sending Hallie's stack of
photos flying into the air. Hallie screams, trying to salvage them, as Annie rushes
to the door and bolts it shut. Together, the girls tie down the blinds. Annie
finds Hallie's favorite stuffed animal, CUPPY, lying on the floor and hands him to Hallie.
Hallie

Thanks.
Annie

Any of your pictures ruined?
Hallie

(holding torn photo)

Only the beautiful Leo DiCaprio.
Annie

oh, your boyfriend?
Hallie

(shows her photo)

Yeah, right.

(then)

You've never heard of Leonardo DiCaprio?
Annie

I've heard of Leonardo DiVinci.
Hallie

'How far away is London anyway?
22

Annie

From here - six thousand miles. But sometimes, it seems
much further. -How far away is your home?
Hallie

California’s way at the other end of the

country.

(shows her photo)

Actually, here's a picture of my house.
Annie

Wow. It's beautiful.
Hallie

We've got this incredible porch that wraps around the whole
house with rocking chairs and a hammock and stables back thataway... and this great pool
with a sliding board...

Annie

How cool.
(points to the back of a Man)

Who's that?
Hallie

Oh, that's my Dad... He didn't know I was taking a picture or
he would've turned around. He's kinda like my best friend. We do everything
together.
Annie reacts strangely, as if chilled, she rubs the goosebumps on her
arms.
Hallie

What's the matter?
Annie

(pulling down her sleeves)

it's chilly in here, that's all.
Hallie crosses to her trunk and takes out a bag of oreos. Sees
Annie watching her.
Hallie

Want one?
Annie

Sure. I love Oreos. At home, I eat them with peanut
butter.

23.

Hallie

(stops, surprised)

You do? That's so weird. So do I.
Annie
You're kidding? Most people find that

totally disgusting.
Hallie

I know. I don't get it.

Annie

Me either.
The Girls laugh, feel a little guilty for enjoying each other's company,
then laugh even harder. Hallie digs a jar of peanut butter from her trunk and opens
it. The Girls start eating.
Hallie

What's your dad like? I mean, is he the kind of father
you can talk to or is he one of those workaholic types that says, 'I'll talk to you later,
honey', but never really does? I hate that.
Annie

I don't have a father, actually. I mean, I had one, once,
I suppose, but my parents divorced years ago. My mother never even mentions
him. It's like he evaporated into thin air or something.
Hallie

It's scary the way nobody stays together

any more.
Annie

Tell me about it.
Both Girls devour their Oreos and peanut butter.
Hallie

How old are you?
Annie

(her mouth full)

I'll be twelve on October 11th.
HALLE

(chokes)

So will I.
2 4

Annie

Your birthday's October 11th?

(Hallie nods)

How weird is that?

Hallie

Very.

(then, realizing)

Hey, it stopped raining. Want to get a
popsicle or something?
Annie walks to Hallie and looks her up and down, really studying her,
biting on her locket. Hallie, feeling her eyes on her, plays with her necklace.
Hallie

What's the matter?
Annie

Hallie, what's your mother like?
Hallie

I never met her. She and my Dad split up when I
was a baby, maybe

even before, I'm not sure. He doesn't like to talk about
her... but I know she was really beautiful.
Annie

How do you know that?
Hallie

Because my Dad had this old picture of her hidden in his sock
drawer and he caught me looking at it all the time so he gave it to me to keep. I'm
really thirsty, you sure you don't want to go to the canteen and get something to drink?
Annie

Will you stop thinking about your stomach

at a time like this!
Hallie

At a time like what?
Annie

Don't you realize what's happening?!?

Don't you find it peculiar that we both

look so much alike and have the same birthday and...

(putting it all together)

Oh man, this is beyond coincidence, this is

beyond imagination! I only have a mother,

(MORE)
2 5.
Annie(cont'd) you only have a father..
You've never seen your Mom, I've never seen my Dad. You have one old picture of your
Mom, I have one old picture of my Dad but at least yours is probably a whole picture.

(Hallie drifts over to her trunk)

Mine's a pathetic little thing, ripped right down the middle...
What are you rummaging in your trunk for?
Hallie

(turns, holding PHOTO to her

chest)

This. It's the picture of my Mom. And it's ripped,
too.
Annie

(a little spooked)

Right down the middle?
Hallie

(nods, nervously)

Right down the middle.
Annie rushes to her trunk, wildly tossing out her things. She
pulls out a small box, opens it and carefully takes out her RIPPED PHOTOGRAPH. She
walks to Hallie, holding it to her chest.
Annie

This is so freaky. Okay. on the count of

three, we'll show them to each other, okay?
Hallie/Annie

(at the same time)

One... two...

(they put their PHOTOS

together)

Three!
INSERT - THE TWO TORN PHOTOS
which, when placed next to each other, fit perfectly, forming one
COMPLETE PHOTO. ANNIE'S MOM sits cozily next to IE'S MM. Behind them, is a
life preserver with the name on it.

(biting her nails)

That's my Dad...
Annie

That Is my Mom...
2 6

The Girls stare at the photo, then at each other. A formality of
strangeness settles on them. They both reach for their lockets. O.S., the
lunch BELL SOUNDS.
Annie

That's the lunch bell.
Hallie
I'm not so hungry anymore. So if your Mom is my Mom and my Dad is
your Dad... and we're both born on October 11th, then you and I are... like... sisters.
Annie

Sisters?!? Hallie, we're twins!!!
Frozen, Annie laughs then tears come to her eyes. Hallie's eyes
fill up and soon tears streak her cheeks. They put their arms around each other and
embrace, sobbing. They pull apart, look at each other, smile, then begin to
laugh. Hallie bites nervously on her locket.
Annie

What's that locket you're biting?
Hallie

Oh, I got it when I was born. It has my initial "Ho
on it.
Annie

(showing hers)
I got mine when I was born, too. Except mine has an "Au on
it.
Hallie

Now I’ve got goose-bumps

(realizing)

Oh my God. I'm a twin?!?. There's two of me! I
mean, two of us? Wow! This is like... I have to sit down.
Hallie takes a seat on Annie's bed.
Annie

(sitting next to her)

Think I'll Join you.
They sit for a beat, then:
Hallie

Can I see your toes?
27

Annie

(pulling off her sneakers)

Sure.
Hallie kicks off her shoes and they hold their feet out in front of
them, side-by-side.
Annie

Identical! Hands?
They hold out their hands together.
Hallie

Oh my god. Exactly the same. Except I bite my
nails.
Annie

You should stop. See how nice they could look.
Hallie

What's your favorite color?
Annie

Mint Green.
Hallie

Oh my God Oh my God!
Annie

(bending her right thumb down to her wrist)

Can you do this with your right hand only?

Hallie

(bending her left thumb down)

No, but I can do it with my left hand only.
Annie

If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life,
what would it be?
Hallie

I don't know. Pizza...
Annie

Topped with... ?
Hallie

Olives, green pepper...
2 8

Annie

And... ?
Hallie

Anchovies.
Annie

Oh
my God. We are twins!

The Girls hug.
INT. MESS HALL - DINNER TIME
Annie and Hallie sit at their Isolation Table, talking a
mile-a-minute.
Annie

I don't know what our parents fought

about but it must've been pretty dreadful

for them to bisect us like this.
Hallie

I can't imagine anyone not getting along

with Dad. Everyone loves him.
Annie

I know, same with Mom.
Hallie

Tell me about her, what's she like?
Annie

She's a clothing designer.
Hallie

Get out!
Annie

She designs the most beautiful wedding gowns. That's her
specialty. She's

becoming quite famous, actually. A Princess in Greece
just bought one of her gowns.
Hallie

Wow.
Annie

You know what's interesting - neither of them ever got married
again. Has your...my... our Dad ever been close to remarrying

2 9.

Hallie

Never. He always says I'm the only girl in his life.
Annie

Mom's never come close either. You know what this means,
don't you?
Hallie

Not exactly. You’re obviously the older one, you get
everything before me. What does it mean?
Annie

(leaning in)

Secretly, in their innermost heart of hearts, they must still
be in love with each other.
Hallie

You think so? Then why haven't they tried to see each
other all these years?
Annie

That's the way true love works. History's filled with
stories of lovers parted by some silly misunderstanding. Anyway, Mom can be
unbelievably stubborn when she wants to be.
Hallie

She can't be worse than Dad
Annie

(laughs)

They sound exactly like us.

EXT. ISOLATION BUNK - ESTABLISHING - LATE AT NIGHT

Everything is quiet and peaceful until we HEAR:

Hallie’S VOICE (O.S.)

OhmyGod!
INT. ISOLATION BUNK - SAME TIME
The room is Dark, Annie is sleeping. Hallie
BOLTS STRAIGHT UP IN BED.

Hallie
I have a brilliant beyond brilliant idea.

(gets out of bed, paces)

(MORE)
3 0
Hallie (cont'd)

I'm a genius. Annie, wake up, you're related to a bona
fide genius.
Annie

What are you raving about?
Hallie

You want to know what Dad is like, right?
Annie

I was just dreaming I was on your front porch with him.
Hallie
-- And I'm dying to know Mom. So what I'm thinking is ... Oh man,
this is so brilliant, it's scary.
Annie

What is it?!?
Hallie
I think we should switch places. When camp's over, I leave as you
and go back to London and you leave as me and go to California.
(off Annie's look)

We can pull it off. We're twins, aren’t we?
Annie

Twins from different countries, with different accents,
different hair-styles, different vocabularies... different everything. Hallie, we're
totally and completely, one hundred percent different.
Hallie

So? What's the problem? I'll teach you to be me and you
teach me to be you.

(gets on knees and begs)C'mon, I gotta meet my Mom.
Annie

(gets out of bed)
The truth is, you know, if we switch, sooner or later they'll have
to un-switch US.
Hallie
And when they do, they'll have-to meet again.
Annie

Face-to-face. After all these years.
Hallie

I told you I'm brilliant.

INT. DANCE ROOM - DAY
Hallie wears Annie's leotard and Annie wears Hallie's bike shorts and
sports bra. Hallie holds a large pad on which she has drawn the layout of her house.
Hallie

-- okay, dining room's on the right, but we never eat in there
except on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Living room's here... Dad's office is the
first door down the hall. You never have to knock, if you do, he'll think it's
weird... Down here is...

F-XT. LAKE - SUNSET
Annie and Hallie sit on the dock looking through a stack of photos, as
the sun sinks behind them. Annie wears Hallie's Girls Rule baseball cap.
Annie

This is Grandfather.
Hallie

He's so cute. What do we call him?
Annie

Grandfather.
Hallie

That makes sense.
Annie

(showing next photo)

This is Martin. He's our Butler.-
Hallie

We have a Butler?

MAIN HALL - NIGHT'
The entire camp is assembled for a screening of Father Of The ,Bride,
Part II, and naturally, they're laughing hysterically. Hallie and Annie sit in the
middle of the crowd, whispering.
Annie
But I never bite my nails!
32.

Hallie

But I always do. Daddy'll know.
Annie
(sits on her hands)

I can't.
Hallie

Want me to do it for you?
Annie rolls her eyes and starts chewing away.

INT. MESS HALL - MORNING
Annie sits in Hallie's seat and Hallie sits in Annie's. Hallie
sips a cup of tea, very lady-like and Annie munches on Fruit Loops.
Hallie

(with a proper British accent)

I dare say this is frightfully good tea, wouldn't you agree?
Annie

(playing Game Boy)

What-ever.

INT. ISOLATION BUNK - DAY
PANS the walls which are now covered with charts, photos and diagrams of
Annie's London Town House and Hallie's Napa Ranch House. COMES TO REST on
Annie, sitting on a stool in front of a mirror, biting her locket.
Annie

Okay, I'm ready.
CLOSE - A DRAWER SLIDES OPEN

and Hallie takes out a comb and a pair of scissors.

CLOSE - Annie- CLOSING HER EYES

Hallie steps INT FRAME, grabs a of clump of Annie's hair and

closes her eyes, as well.

Annie

Don't shut your eyes!

3 3

Hallie

Oh, right. Sorry. I'm just a little

nervous.
Annie

You're nervous?!? An eleven year-old is

cutting my hair. Go ahead, just do it!
As Hallie raises the scissors ...

ANGLE - THE FLOOR

as ANNIE'S HAIR falls in a ring around her feet. A beat
and CAMERA TILTS UP to Annie staring in the MIRROR at her new
look". Hallie leans in next to her. They are now IDENTICAL in every way.
Annie

This is scary.
Hallie

(New Yawk accent)

Honey, you never looked better.

(realizes something)

OhmyGod!
Annie

ohmygod what?
Hallie

I have pierced ears!
Annie

Yeah... ?

(then, panicked)

Oh, no. Forget it! Uh-uh, not happening.
Sorry. Wrong number.
Hallie

Then cutting your hair was a total waste. There's no way
I could go to camp with pierced ears and come home without 'em. I mean, come
on. Get real.
Annie

This isn't fair. I've had to chew my nails, cut off my
hair and now you want to punch holes in my ears! You didn't have to do one bloody
thing to become me!
Hallie

Hey, can I help it if I'm a complicated woman with a look
entirely my own?
3 4

A MATCH
is FIRED UP. Hallie holds a sewing needle over the flame.
Hallie

(very calmly)

Needle sterilized.
Hallie professionally carries the needle to Annie, who lies on her bed,
petrified, holding an ice cube to her ear.
Annie

Y-Y-You sure you know what you're doing?
Hallie

(cool as a cucumber)

I've gone with all my friends to have their ears pierced.
Just close your eyes, it'll all be over before you know it. Earring ready?
Annie holds up the earring as her reply.
Hallie

Okay, just relax. On the count of three,

remove the ice. One, two, three!
Annie shuts her eyes TIGHTLY, pulls the ice away as Hallie -STICKS THE
NEEDLE through Annie's ear lobe. Both Girls SCREAM at the top of their lungs.
CUT TO:

Hallie - PASSED OUT COLD ON THE
FLOOR

Annie, now wearing the earring, gently slaps Hallie's face

trying to revive her.

Annie

Hal, are you okay? Wake up! Hallie! Hallie OPENS
her eyes.

Hallie

Are you bleeding to death?
Annie

I'm fine. It didn't hurt at all. But I refuse
to go through life with only one pierced ear.

(holds up NEEDLE.)

Back to work, darling.
3 5

Hallie takes one look at THE NEEDLE and PASSES OUT AGAIN.

Annie

Hal!

EXT. MAIN LODGE - MORNING
Teary-eyed Campers are hugging good-bye, as they load into the buses and
cars.
Crosby, Jackie, Zoe and Nicole hug Hallie and Annie good-bye and-climb
into their buses. Hallie is now dressed in Annie's blue suit and Annie is dressed in
Hallie's overalls.
Annie

Okay, so remember, you're going to find out how Mom and Dad
met...
Hallie

-- and you're gonna find out why they broke up...
MARVA JR.

(through her bull-horn)

-- Annie James! Your car's here! Annie James, front
and center!
Annie

That's you.

(hands her envelope)

Here's your ticket and passport. The plane leaves at
noon.

(then)

Also, remember, you've got to figure out a way to bring Mom out
to California.
MARVA JR

Last call, Annie James!
The Girls hug.

Give Dad a kiss for me.
Annie

And give Mom one for me.

Hallie nods and takes off. Annie watches her, biting her
locket.

Annie

OhmyGod! Hallie! I mean, Annie!

Hallie!

(MORE)
3 6
Annie(cont'd)

(Hallie turns)

The lockets!
Hallie rolls her eyes, runs back and the Girls quickly switch lockets,
kiss good-bye and Hallie takes off again.
Annie WATCHES FROM THE CROWD
as Hallie greets the Limo Driver, climbs in the back seat and speeds
off. Annie crosses her arms, then crosses her fingers.
Annie

Good luck.
CUT TO:
LONDON
from 10,000 feet.
ANGLE - Hallie - SEATED BY THE WINDOW
on British Air, just moments before landing.
Hallie

(to herself)

okay, this is it. Oh, God, I hope she likes me.
Please like me.

INT. BRITISH AIR TERMINAL - A FEW M
A steady stream of Passengers fill the terminal. Hallie cautiously
enters, looking into the SEA OF FACES waiting behind a velvet rope, when she HEARS:
MARTIN (O.S.)

Annie!
Hallie looks up and sees Martin pushing through the crowd, holding a
small bouquet of flowers

Hallie

(with her best British accent)

Maaaw-tin!
She rushes to him and dives him a big hug.
MARTIN

You look fantastic. What did you do to your hair?
Hallie

cut it. Do you like it?

3 7

MARTIN

Love it. It's the new you!

(notices)
And you got your ears pierced! Give me five, girlfriend!
He puts out his hand to start "the handshake". Hallie
looks at him strangely for a moment, then remembers "the handshake" and executes
it to perfection.

LONDON - THE SIGHTS
as seen from a moving Limo. We PASS the HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT,
WESTMINSTER ABBEY and BIG BEN.
INT. LIMOUSINE - MOVING - SAME TIME
Hallie has the window rolled down, her head resting on her hands, as she
soaks up the sights.
Hallie

This is so amazing! What a city!
MARTIN
Eight weeks at camp and suddenly you act like a American tourist.

Hallie
That's what camp's for, silly. Makes you appreciate home. I
just love how everyone drives on the wrong side here.

(then, realizing)

I mean, here they actually drive on the right side, but after
being in America where they drive on the wrong side, which after a while begins to feel
like the right side, makes this seem like the wrong side... ObmyGod! Martin!
Buckingham Palace!!! Can we stop?!? I'm dying to see one of the guards up
close.
MARTIN
You've seen the guards up close a million times.
Hallie

But never with short hair and pierced ears.
MARTIN
Did they serve you anything funny to drink on that plane?
3 S.

Hallie

Please, Martin. Just for a sec.
MARTIN

Just for a sec? Now you're even talking like an
American. Oh, dear... Gareth pull over, will you, old boy?
The Driver pulls up in front of BUCKINGHAM PALACE and Hallie gets out
and runs up to one of the Royal Guards. As is the custom, the Guard doesn't look at
Hallie, doesn't even blink.
Hallie

(waves)

Hi, there. How ya doin'?

(no answer, whispers)

My name's Hallie. I'm from California. We don't
have anything remotely like you in California. Oh, this is too cool. My Dad
has a nutcracker shaped just like you. Same outfit... everything. is the Queen
home? What's she doing? I know you can't answer. Can you blink if she's
home?
Suddenly, the Guard clicks his heels, lifts his rifle over his shoulder
and snaps to attention. A DOZEN OTHER GUARDS join him, doing the same. immediately,
the other side of the gate is flanked by a MATCHED SET OF GUARDS, all switching their
rifles from one shoulder to the other and snapping to attention.
The enormous Gates to the Palace MAJESTICALLY OPEN and a DOZEN PALACE
HORS holding Royal Flags exit in formation, followed by A WHITE ROLLS ROYCE. The
Rolls slowly pulls through the Gates and heads directly toward Hallie, who stands frozen
among the Palace Guards.
Hallie

oh jeez, tell me this isn't happening!
The Rolls comes to a stop in front of Hallie and the tinted window in
the back-seat slowly lowers. Hallie starts to fall backwards. The Palace Guard
pushes her back upright.
From the back-seat, behind the Driver, QUEEN ELIZABETH leans forward and
peers out crown and all.
QUEEN ELIZABM

Good afternoon.
Hallie

Good afternoon.
QUEEN ELIZABETH

What's your name, dear?
Hallie

Hallie Parker. I mean, Annie James, ma'am. Not
Hallie Parker. Sorry. Forgot my name.
QUEEN ELIZABETH

Yes, I have that effect on people. So nice to meet you,
Annie James. Thank you for stopping by the Palace today.
39

Hallie
Thank you, Your Highness. Very nice to meet you personally like
this ... I didn't even know you were home. I was excited just to see one of your
Guards ... I'm supposed to curtsey, aren't I?
QUEEN ELIZABETH

That's okay, my dear, I shan't tell a single soul. I
promise.
Hallie

(nods, stunned)

You shan't? Oh, thank you, ma'am.
QUEEN ELIZABETH

(waves, with a gloved hand)

Time for me to go. Ta-ta.
Hallie

(waves back, shocked)

Ta-ta.

The window rises and the Rolls pulls off amongst The Queen's Guard.
PALACE GUARD

(through locked teeth)

Now that's a first.
Hallie turns to Martin and the Chauffeur, who watch, their mouths agape.

EXT. 18TH. CENTURY HOUSE - REGENT'S PARK - A LITTLE LATER

An elegant town house on one of London's loveliest streets.

The Limousine pulls up and the Driver gets out, opening the

back door for Hallie. She steps out and looks up at the
house.
4 0.

Hallie

(to herself)

This is it, 18 Cumberland Square.
Martin helps the Driver with the luggage as Hallie rushes up the
steps. She places her hand on the big round knob and turns it.

INT. TOWN HOUSE
A beautiful, sun-filled house with a fantastic carved staircase.
Hallie stands in the foyer, feeling very small.
Hallie

Hello?
She peeks into the Drawing Room, doesn't see anyone, heads around the
stairs, counting the doorways and stops at:
THE LIBRARY
where she sees someone sitting in a leather chair, smoking a pipe,
hidden behind The Financial Times.
Hallie

(softly)

Grandfather, I'm home.
Hallie's Grandfather, CHARLES James, a
small, dapper man, with a moustache and wearing a Saville Row suit, rises with a smile.
CHARLES

Is that my little girl? That tall gangly thing?
Hallie

Yes, it's me.

(takes her in his arms)

Did you have a good time, sweet pea?
Hallie

(buried in his suit jacket)

Uh-huh... Great...
CHARLES

(amused)

What are you doing?
Hallie

Just smelling.

CHARLES

Smelling?
Hallie

I'm making a memory. Years from now, when I'm all grown
up, I'll remember my Grandfather and how he always smelled of peppermint and pipe tobacco.
He pulls her close, she rests her head on his chest. Then, from
the top of the stairs, Hallie HEARS:
ELIZABETH'S VOICE

Annie...!
Hallie looks up to the balcony at the top of the stairs and sees her
Mother - for the first time in her life. ELIZABETH James
is
a natural beauty in her mid-thirties. Hallie walks trance-like to
the bottom of the stairs.
Hallie-

Mother?
ELIZABETH

Honey, welcome home!
Elizabeth rushes down the stairs as Hallie flies up toward her.. Hallie
falls into her Mother's arms, tears flooding her eyes.
Hallie

I can't believe it's you.
ELIZABETH
And I can't believe it's you and with short hair no less.
Hallie

A girl I met at camp cut it. Do you hate it?
MARTIN

(entering with the luggage)

I think it looks awesome.
ELIZABETH
So do 1. I absolutely love it. And you got your ears pierced?!
Hallie nods.
CHARLES
Looks very chic if you ask me, although nobody ever does.
42.

ELIZABETH

Any other surprises - belly-button rings, tatoos ... ?
Hallie laughs, shakes her head, looks up at her Mother with tears in her
eyes.
ELIZABETH

What is it, sweetie?
Hallie

I'm sorry, it's just... I've missed you so much.

ELIZABETH

(hugging her)

Can you believe it? It seems like it's been forever.
Hallie

You have no idea.
INT. ELIZABETH'S BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
We hear LAUGHTER OFF-CAMERA then Elizabeth and Hallie E R. Hallie takes
in the room... it's beautiful, feminine and gracious. Tea has been laid on a corner
table. Elizabeth leads Hallie to a small love seat.
ELIZABETH

So tell me all about camp.
Hallie

Ohmygod, I love your room, Mom... it's so... totally Mom-like.
ELIZABETH

Nothing's new... it's just as Mom-like as it's always
been. So... c'mon, tell 7ne... Did you like everyone? Was it fun?

Yeah, it was great and I liked this one girl a real lot, I mean... in
particular. She's from California, actually.

(then)

Have you ever been to California?
ELIZABETH

(pouring tea)

Yes... Once. But that was a long time ago, before you
were born.

4 3

Hallie

(staring at Elizabeth)

Man-o-Manichevitz ... I didn't realize you were so beautiful.
ELIZABETH

Man-o-Manichevitz ... I love your new vocabulary.
Just then, Martin knocks on the open door and with disdain, holds up
Hallie's Teddy Bear, by it's ear.
MARTIN

I found a stowaway in your suitcase.
Hallie

OhmyGod, Cuppy.

(Elizabeth turns to her)

He belongs to a girl in my bunk... I don't know how on earth he
ended up in my suitcase. Gosh, whaddya know.
MARTIN

well, since he's not our 'Cuppy’, shall we dispose of him?
Hallie

(retrieving it)

No! I mean, no. I'll mail him to her. She loves
this thing a lot. A lot. A lot. She's like slept with that thing her
entire life and she could never be like in a foreign country without him. No, no,
I'll take care. of it, thank you, Martin.
Just then, the PHONE RINGS. Elizabeth answers it.
ELIZABETH

Hello? Hi... Really? Can't you manage without
me? Annie just got home from camp... Well, what's the problem?
As Elizabeth talks on the phone, Hallie crosses to the dresser and runs
her hand across her Mother's brush, her pearls, smells her perfume, then lifts up a photo
of Elizabeth as a little girl. Hallie t = s back, looks at her Mom. Elizabeth
makes a face about the phone call. Hallie laughs as Elizabeth continues on the
phone.
Hallie notices Elizabeth's closet door is open and she enters, gazing at
all of her Mother's clothes. She looks at a row of evening clothes and touches the
beautiful fabrics.
44.

ELIZABETH

Annie!
Hallie pops out of the closet, worried she's been caught trespassing.
ELIZABETH
Would you mind very much running down to the studio with me?

EXT. KINGS ROAD - LONDON - A LITTLE LATER
Through a LONG LENS, shooting through taxi cabs and traffic, we SEE one
very happy Little Girl walking the streets of London, holding her Mother's hand.

A STORE WINDOW - MOMENTS LATER
IS CLOSE on a mannequin wearing an EXQUISITE WEDDING GOWN. Above
the window is the name Elizabeth Tames Designs.
Hallie (O.S.)

Wow, that's incredible.
ANGLE BACK to REVEAL Hallie and Elizabeth standing in front of the shop.
ELIZABETH

Really? You don't think it's too over-the-top?
Hallie

No. I love it. You know who would look really
beautiful in that gown? I mean, beautiful?
ELIZABETH

Who?
Hallie

You.
ELIZABETH

Me? I think the time change has made you a little loopy.
Come on, let's see what all the fuss is about...
4 5.

ELIZABETH James STUDIOS - DAY
A skylight fills the foyer of this converted town house with a splash of
white light. A huge vase of white orchids sit on an antique table. Elizabeth
and Hallie climb a circular stairwell, passing a Bridal Boutique on the first floor.
Hallie

-- You mean you never think about getting married again?
ELIZABETH

No, I like things exactly the way they are, thank you.
An Assistant hurries past them, carrying a veil.
ASSISTANT

Hi, Elizabeth. Hey Annie, welcome home. Great haircut.
Hallie

Hi... Thanks ...

(shuts her yes, thinking hard) -- Fiona! Yeah, I'm
back. Thanks.

(then)
But Mom, seriously, doesn't designing all these wedding gowns ever make
you think about marriage... or maybe just think about the IF' word?
ELIZABETH

(stops)

The ‘F’ word?!
Hallie

My 'father'.
ELIZABETH

Oh. That ‘F’ word. Well, no, actually it
doesn't because I didn't even wear a wedding gown-when I married the IF' word.
HALLLIE

You didn't? -Why not?
ELIZABETH
Hey, how did we get into this discussion anyway?

(they arrive at a large loft filled with people)

(MORE)
4 6
ELIZABETH (cont'd)

Okay, here we are. Now let's see what disaster awaits us.
As they step into THE LOFT, we see a PHOTO-SHOOT is in progress. A
MODEL wears a beautiful wedding gown as a PHOTOGRAPHER, shoots away. Make-Up, Hair
people and Assistants scurry about. MUSIC plays in the B.G. Hallie watches like a
kid in a candy store.
PHOTOGRAPHER

Okay, she's here.- We're saved.
ELIZABETH

(sotto, to Hallie)

Uh-huh, the pressure's on.
PHOTOGRAPHER

We don't know what to do with the veil. if she wears it, it
covers the back of the dress, if she doesn't the dress looks--

ELIZABETH

-- incomplete. Right.

(to Model)

Can you try standing sideways..? Head up, kind of an Audrey
Hepburn type... that's it. That's perfect.

(to Assistant)

Now slip the veil on and drape it back... not over her
shoulders ... straight back, there you go...

(to Model)

Now lift the train in your arms like you're carrying it.
Don't worry about the bouquet, you're married now, you gotta learn to juggle...
Beautiful. And look happy, it's your wedding day!
The Model laughs as the Photographer reels off shots.
Hallie

(to herself)

Mom is too cool.

STUDIO CORRIDOR - MOMENTS LATER
Elizabeth and Hallie make their way down the hall, passing a row of
design offices. Two Assistants carry a gown past them.
Hallie

So what did you wear to marry my Dad?
47.

ELIZABETH

Why the sudden curiosity about your Dad?
Hallie

Well, maybe because he's never mentioned and you can't blame a
kid for wondering...
ELIZABETH

(sticks her head in an office)

I'm going home, kids ... See you tomorrow.
Elizabeth and Hallie head back down the circular staircase.
Hallie

So, what was he like? Really.
ELIZABETH

Who?
Hallie rolls her eyes.

EXT. ELIZABETH James DESIGNS
- LONDON - LATE DAY

Elizabeth and Hallie step onto the street.

Hallie

Mother, you can't avoid the subject forever.
ELIZABETH

Okay. He was quite lovely to tell you the truth.
When we met, he was...actually entirely lovely. All right?
Hallie

(smiles)

All right.
it starts to RAIN. Elizabeth snaps open an umbrella.
ELIZABETH

(puts her arm around Hallie)

Are you cold?
@IE

I'm fine.

(looks up at her)

so, did you meet him here in London?

Elizabeth-takes Hallie's hand as they dash across the street.

4 8.

ELIZABETH

We met on the QE 2.
Hallie

The QE what?

ELIZABETH
The Queen Elizabeth 2. It's an ocean liner that sails from London to New
York. I was nervous about flying in those days, so was your father.

(remembering back)

We met our very first night on board the ship, actually.
We were seated next to each other at dinner. He's an American, you know.
Hallie

No kidding?
ELIZABETH

(nods)

We kind of hit it off immediately.
Hallie
Hey, I love Americans. I mean, if I wasn't British, I'd be an
American. So, was it love at first sight?
ELIZABETH
I knew you were going to ask me all these questions one day.

(yells)
Taxi!
Elizabeth raises her am and hails a cab. It splashes to a stop and
they hurry inside.

INT. TAXI - MOVING
Elizabeth and Hallie sit side-by-side.
Hallie
So, did you see each other every single night?
ELIZABETH
You know, this part of your personality reminds me of you father.
You'd think he raised you instead of me.
(looking into Hallie's eyes)

Yes, we saw each other every night, every
4 9.
ELIZABETH (cont'd)

morning and every hour in-between. Then one night, he
popped the question, right there in the middle of the Atlantic.
Hallie

Cool.
ELIZABETH

And since a ship's Captain can do all kinds of special things,
like even marry people...
Hallie
OhmyGod, you mean, you got married on the QE 2?

(Elizabeth nods)

That's beyond cool. So what happened? You didn't
love each other when you weren't in the middle of the Atlantic?
ELIZABETH

I don't )mow, honey. These things are complicated.
I'm very British and you father's very American. I tried living in California, he
tried living in London but...
Hallie

It just didn't work out.
ELIZABETH

No, it didn't. Except for having you.
Hallie smiles. Elizabeth puts her arm around her, pulls her
close. Hallie signs.
Hallie
Dear old Dad. I wonder what he's doing at this very moment?
CUT TO:
DEAR OLD DAD
CAMERA is CLOSE on NICK Parker and he is
lovely, indeed. A smiling, ruggedly hancuome guy, who shines among a throng of
people waiting anxiously at THE NAPA COUNTY AIRPORT. Suddenly, he brightens and
waves.
NICK

Hal! Hey, welcome home, kiddo!
5 0

ANGLE - Annie WALKING ACROSS THE TARMAC
carrying Hallie's duffel bag over her shoulder. Nervous at first,
she breaks into a grin at the sight of her father, waving and smiling at her.
Annie

Dad!!!
Annie runs to him and stops just as she reaches him.
Annie

(looking up at him)

Dad... Finally...
NICK

Get into these arms, you little punk.
Nick wraps his arms around Annie and pulls her close.
NICK
I hope you had a lousy time at that camp 'cause you're never going back
- I missed you too much.
(Annie smiles, Nick looks at her)
What happened to you? Something's changed. Did you get taller?
They walk off, arm-in-arm, into the terminal, Nick carrying Hallie's
duffel.

INT. TERMINAL
Annie

So, what's up, Dad? How’s Chessy and everybody?

NICK

Great. Everybody's great, can't wait to see you.
Eight weeks really is too long, Hal. So much has been happening around here.
Annie
A lot's happened to me, too. I feel like I'm practically a new
woman.
As they walk, Annie keeps peeking at Nick.
NICK

What's the matter? Did I cut myself

shaving?

Annie

No, it's just seeing you for the first

time. I mean, you know... in so long.

(giggles)

You look taller to me, too.
NICK

(pulls her to him)

C'mon, squirt, let's go home.

EXT. NAPA, CALIFORNIA - AERIAL VIEW - DAY

A dark green Suburban drives past picture perfect wine
vineyards.

INT. SUBURBAN - MOVING

Nick drives wearing a straw cowboy hat. Hallie sits next
to him.
NICK

Hey, by the way, thanks for all those newsy letters. I'm
really glad I bought you all that personalized stationary you just had to have.
Annie

we meant to write, Dad, but we just got so busy with...
NICK

We?

Annie

Oh. Me and my friend. I met this girl at camp and we got
really close. Practically like sisters. She was a lovely girl.
NICK

‘Lovely’? You seem to have gotten very Proper
all of a sudden.

(takes her hand, looks at it)

Still biting those nails.
Annie

Dad! You noticed!
52.

NICK

Whaddya mean, noticed? You've been biting them since you
got teeth.
Annie

But I've decided to stop, Dad. It's a horrid, habit,
really it is, Dad.
NICK

'Lovely' girl ... 'Horrid, habit? Did I send you to
summer camp or finishing school? And why do you keep saying 'Dad, at the end of
every sentence?
Annie
I'm sorry, I didn't realize I was doing it, Dad.
(realizing she's done it again) Sorry, Dad.
They both laugh.
Annie

Do you want to know why I keep saying Dad... ? The truth?
NICK

Because you missed your old man so much?

Annie

Exactly! it's because in my whole life, I mean for these past
eight weeks, I was never able to ever say the word 'Dad'. Never. Not once! And
a Dad is an irreplaceable person in a girls' life. I mean think about it, there's a
whole day, devoted to celebrating Fathers, right? Just imagine, someone's life
without a Father. Never buying a Father's Day card, never getting their Father a'
birthday present, never sitting on their Father's lap, never being able to say, 'Hi, Dad',
'What's up, Dad?,, 'Bye, Dad, catch you later, Dad'. A baby's first words are always
]Dada, aren't they? Then there's 'Daddy', 'Daddio', 'Pop', 'My old man'... Not to
mention, 'Wait 'til your father gets home, and...
NICK

So, let me see if I get this ... you missed being able to call
me Dad.
53
Annie

Yeah. I really have, Dad.
Nick smiles as he turns in under a wooden sign that says Parker Vineyard
and Winery. Annie looks out the window.
Annie

ObmyGod.
NICK

Now you sound like your old self.

EXT. NICK AND HALLIE'S HOUSE - DAY
A rambling Victorian-style ranch house, with a wide porch that wraps
around the entire facade. Nick toots the HORN as he drives down the long gravel
driveway. SAMMY, a big golden mutt, races after the car, barking.
JOSE, Nick's right-hand man, arrives from the side of the house,
drinking a small bottle of juice. He opens the Surburban's door for Annie.
JOSE

Well, look who finally decided to come home.
Annie

Hey, Jose.

JOSE

Did your old man tell you we decided no more camp for you?
Annie

(climbing out)

Yeah, he told me.
JOSE

(hugging her)

it got too quiet around here, Hal. We couldn't stand
it. Nobody blasting music, nobody playing hide and seek in the vineyards, nobody
getting stuck up on the roof...
Annie laughs as the screen door swings open and CHESSY EXITS, humming as
if she's a one-woman welcome home band. Chessy, the most lovable woman on the
planet, early thirties, warm eyes, great sense of humor, lifts Annie right off her feet.
54

CHESSY

Hell-o, Gorgeous! You grew, you lost weight, you look
fabulous, we missed you, don't let these bums talk you out of, going back to camp.
You're a growing girl. You need adventure. You hungry? I made cornbread
and chili. Why're you so quiet? What's wrong?
Annie

I'm just so happy to be home.
NICK

(passes, carrying Hallie's duffel)
Did I hear something about cornbread and chili?
CHESSY

It's on the stove...

(without even looking)

Wipe your feet, Jose!
Chessy looks Annie over, hugs her again.
CHESSY

You've changed, Hal ... I can't put my finger on it, but
something about you has definitely changed..
Sammy bounds down the steps of the porch.
Annie

Really? Me?

(then)

Hi, Sammy!
Sammy sniffs at Annie's shoes, looks up at her, then backs off
suspiciously, BARKING at her.
CHESSY

What's with you, goofball! It's Hallie.

Sanmy continues BARKING.

Annie

I probably smell like camp, that's all.

Annie runs up the porch steps, followed by Chessy.
55.

CHESSY

(to Sammy)

What's wrong with you? it's like you didn't even
recognize her.

INT. HOUSE
A spacious comfortable ranch house with high ceilings and panoramic
views of Nick's vineyards.
Annie

(taking it all in)

Wow! It's even better than the pictures.
CHESSY

Whaddya want to do first, kiddo - unpack or eat? Or eat,
then unpack? Or, we can eat while we unpack.
Annie
You mean I can eat in my room?
CHESSY

(looks at her like she's nuts) Yes, I would say that's a
definite possibility.
-As Chessy and Annie head up the stairs, Nick ENTERS, eating a big bowl
of chili.
NICK

Hal, when you're done, come on down, there's someone I want you
to meet.
Annie

(looks down at him)

Okay, Dad.
NICK

(smiles)

Okay, Hal.
Annie continues up the stairs, suddenly stops. Turns to Chessy.
Annie

Someone he wants me to meet?
CHESSY

(on the sly)

-He didn't tell you?
5 6

Annie

Tell me what?

Annie HEARS the SOUND of A WOMAN LAUGHING. She looks
down.

ANNIE'S VIEW - THE LIVING ROOM BELOW

Nick turns as MEREDITH BLAKE enters from the patio.
Meredith is a tawny beauty of twenty-six, wearing a chic sleeveless dress, sleek hair and
heels.' Nick takes her hand.
Annie turns back to Chessy and mouths "Who is that?” Chessy
motions for Annie to follow her upstairs.
INT. HALLIE'S ROOM
Sunny, warmly furnished with lots of books, CD's, Horse Show ribbons and
toys. The French doors are wide open and a gentle breeze billows the curtains.
Annie-

Who’s the blonde?
CHESSY

Hal, it's none of my business how your father makes a fool out
of himself, you understand? He's a big boy, he can do what he wants.
Annie

Right. So who is she?
CHESSY

Her name's Meredith Blake. She's a publicist from San
Francisco. Your father hired her at the beginning of the summer to do some publicity
for the vineyard and if you ask me, she's done a better job selling herself than the
grapes.
Annie

Whaddya mean?
CHESSY

Look, you and I )mow your Dad's no suave debonair Bachelor of
the Month-type, so I wonder what a young hot thing like her sees in a guy who walks around
with his shirt-tail hanging out and his cereal bowl full of chili. Then I realized,
there's a .million reasons why that girl's giggling and they're all sitting in the Napa
Valley Community Bank.
Annie

You mean you don't think she even really likes Dad...
CHESSY

-- What do I know? But I'll tell you one thing.
This one could give Sharon Stone femme fatal lessons. She's got your father eating
out of the palm of her hand. They ride together, they swim together, they're out to
dinner every night. Not to mention she treats yours truly like the shlepper help' of
all time which has really endeared her to me, as you can imagine. = you go down and meet
her and see for yourself. Don't let me influence you.

INT. LIVING ROOM - A FEW MINUTES LATER
Annie bounds down the stairs, wearing sunglasses and a faded

Parker Vineyards T-shirt over a bathing suit-. She looks

Around, sees lots of PHOTOGRAPHS of Nick and Hallie when

Hallie was a baby.
Annie

(admiring a photo)

We were such a cute baby.
She's distracted when she HEARS Meredith's LAUGH. Annie lowers her
sunglasses, peering over them at Meredith lounging by the pool ogling Nick.

EXT. POOL
Annie joins Nick and Meredith under an umbrella. The vineyards and
mountains cascade down from the pool creating an incredible vista.
NICK

There's my girl! Hal, I want you to meet a friend of
mine. Honey, this is Meredith Blake.
Annie

(waves)

Hi ...
ITH

Hi. Wow. I can't believe I'm finally meeting the famous
Hallie. I've looked forward to this all summer.
58.

Annie

Really? Well ... here I am.
MEREDITH

Nicky, she's adorable.
Nick blushes as Annie mouths "Nicky-O
MEREDITH
The way your father talked about you I expected to meet a little girl
but you're so grown up...
Annie

I'll be twelve soon. How old are you?
MEREDITH

(a little thrown)

-- Twenty-six.
Annie
Only fourteen years older than me. How old are you again, Dad?
NICK

oh, suddenly she's interested in math. I'm gonna get some
more chili and a bottle of champagne to celebrate.
Annie

What are we celebrating?

Nick pauses.

MEREDITH (jumping in)

You're home-coming of course.
Nick and Meredith exchange a quick look which is not lost on
Annie. Nick heads toward the house as Annie sits by the pool, dunking her feet in
the water. A cell-phone RINGS, Meredith flips it open.
MERIDITH
Hello. Yes, Reverend Mosby... Uh-huh. I'll certainly ask him
but I doubt if he'll be

available. I understand it's for a local charity.
Um-hmmm... I'm writing it all down.

(she writes nothing down)

Okay, got it. Sounds very worthwhile, I-agree but
unfortunately, I see that Mr.

Parker will be out of the country those days. Yes, I'll
be sure to mention it to him. Thank you

(snaps phone shut)

So. How was camp, Hal? Was it fabulous?
Annie

Yes, I loved it actually. My Dad's going out of the
country? When?
MERIDITH

No, no, I just had to say that to get him out of something.

(changing the subject)

You know I never heard a man talk about his daughter the way
Nicky talks about you. You two are obviously incredibly close.
Annie

We're closer than close. We're all each other has...
Annie does a huge cannonball into the pool, SPLASHING water all over
Meredith. Pissed, but controlling it, Meredith walks to the edge of the pool picks
up a towel and pats herself dry as Annie POPS to the surface.
Annie

Sorry, did I get you wet, Mer?
MEREDITH (trying to be sweet) just a little, Hal.

(then)

Hey, guess what? Your Dad took me riding the other day
and he let me ride your horse. I hope that's okay with you.
Annie

Oh, sure. Sprout's used to strange women riding
her. Not that you're strange or anything.- Actually, compared to the others, you
seem relatively normal.

(she floats on her back)
MEREDITH

(curiosity getting the best of

her, walks to Annie)

Others? What others?
Annie

What others? Puh-leeze.

(laughs hysterically, sees

Meredith's concern)

You want the 411?
60.

MEREDITH

The 411?
Annie

The 'information'... the lowdown on the other women.
Can't say that I blame you. I'd want to know if I was number twentyeight ... I
mean... number twenty-nine in a man's life.
MERIDITH

I'm number twenty-nine?!
Annie

Well, yes but I didn't start counting ‘til I was about
four. God knows how many there were before then. it's always the same routine...
horseback riding through the vineyards ... long romantic dinners with his special reserve
label wine... moonlight swims ...

(Meredith nods, intrigued)

But I always say, it's none of my business if a man his age
wants to make a fool out of himself. Although, maybe he's changed and you're the
real thing, Mer.
Just then, Nick arrives with a bottle of Champagne.
NICK

okay, here we go. A bottle of my special reserve
label. You girls find something to talk about while I was gone?
Annie smiles and dives under the water, just like a little angel.
NICK

Does that mean 'yes'?
MERIDIITH

it sure does.

EXT. ELIZABETHIS TOWN HOUSE - LONDON - FOLLOWING MORNING
OVER, a PHONE RINGS.

INT. FOYER - SAME TIME
Grandfather walks right past the RINGING PHONE, reading the morning
paper. Elizabeth stands at the top of the stairs, slipping on pair of heels.
61

ELIZABETH

Somebody grab that, please.
Martin passes through carrying a tray with coffee on it. He picks
up the phone, balancing the tray with his other hand.

MARTIN

James residence... Annie?

Hallie walks by.

Hallie

Yes, Martin?

MARTIN

(does a double-take) oh dear, it sounded just like you on the
phone.

(into phone)
I'm sorry, who did you wish to speak with? Annie? Of
course. One moment, please.
(hands Hallie the phone)

A Mildred Plotka for you... Sounds like your twin.
Hallie

My twin? Very funny.

(into phone)

Hello? Oh, Mildred, how you doin'?

INT. HALLIE'S BEDROOM - NAPA, CALIFORNIA - MIDNIGHT
Annie holds the phone as she crosses the bedroom, sneaks into the
BATHROOM and locks the door.
Annie

(as herself)

Hey! Howls it going over there?.
Hallie

(also as-Annie)

Oh, everything's quite lovely here. We're expecting a bit
of rain today but Mildred, can you... hold on for a moment7
Hallie sees the coast is clear and ducks into the hall closet, shutting
the door just as Martin walks past. He does another double-take... Where'd she go?

62
INSIDE THE CLOSET - SAME TIME

Hallie pulls a string above her head, turning on the light.

Hallie

(as herself)

okay, now I can talk. OhmyGod, Mom's incredible. I
can not believe I've lived my. entire life without knowing her. She's beautiful and
fun and smart and I love the gowns she designs and I got her talking about how she and Dad
first met and what happened between them and if you ask me--
INTERCUT - Hallie
AND Annie
Annie

(WHISTLING into phone)

Hallie! Stop! We've got a major problem.
You're going to have to bring mother out here immediately.
Hallie
Immediately? Are you nuts? I've had one day with her.
I'm just getting to know her. I can't. I refuse.
Annie

But this is an emergency. Dad's in love.
Hallie

(laughs)
Get out of here. Dad doesn't fall in love. I mean, not
seriously.
Annie

Trust me, he's serious, about this one. He's always
holding her hand, kissing her neck, waiting on her hand and foot..
Hallie

(sinking-to the floor)

He is... ?
Annie

it's disgusting.
Hallie

Well, you'll just have to break 'em.up.

Sabotage her. Do whatever you have to.
6 3

Annie

I'm trying but I'm at a slight disadvantage I only met the man
twelve hours ago. You've got to get back here to help me.
Hallie

Annie, I can't. I want more time with Mom

Hallie FINDS A CANDY WRAPPER in one of Annie's coat pockets, WRINKLES it
over the receiver making it SOUND LIKE STATIC.
MULIE

Annie, are you still there? I can barely

hear you... Ann....

(clicks the receiver)
Annie

I'm here! What are you..?
Hallie

(wrinkles the wrapper)

Operator... ! Operator... Sorry, think I lost you, Annie.
Annie

(knowing what's up, holds receiver out from her ear) Thanks for
your help, Hal.

INT. FOYER - LONDON - SAME TIME
Hallie creaks open the closet door and crawls out on all fours, only to
find her Mother, Grandfather and Martin standing in the FOYER, all looking down at her.
Hallie

had a phone call. From a friend at camp. It's an
old camp tradition.-.. Talk to your best friend from inside a closet... kinda stupid, I
know but...

(rises, replaces the phone on the table, sighs)

So... Breakfast anyone?
CUT TO:
Two PLATES LOADED WITH BACON, EGGS, TOAST AND PANCAKES
ANGLE BACK- with Chessy, as she carries the plates across the

KITCHEN to Annie.
64.

CHESSY

okay, here we go, most important meal of the day... Eggs sunny
side up, bacon, toast and just in case you're really hungry... a stack of humongous
chocolate chip pancakes which smell incredible, if I do say so myself.

Chessy places all of this in front of Annie.
Annie

(not too interested)

Thanks, Chessy.
Chessy waves her hand over the food, sending it's aroma toward Annie.
CHESSY
Not hungry again? You hardly ate your chili, your favorite food
and now you're not eating your breakfast. You're not sick, are you?
Chessy puts her hand on Annie's forehead, then joins her at the kitchen
table.
Annie

I'm fine, I promise. Where's Dad?
CHESSY

He and Miss--

(imitating Meredith)
'I'll just have half a grapefruit, thank you, left about an hour
ago. You overslept and he didn't want to wake you. Of course, I'd oversleep
too if I was up at midnight making mysterious phone calls from my bathroom.

Annie

oh, that. I was calling a friend from camp.
Mildred. She lives in New York.
CHESSY
Oh, I see and you wanted to call Mildred at a time that was convenient
for her. Because of the time difference.
Annie

Exactly. Because of the time difference.
CHESSY

Uh-huh. So you waited until it was three in the morning
her time. That makes perfect sense.
Annie

Actually, it was seven at night her time. You see she
lives in New York but she was on vacation with her family in Bora Bora.
Annie takes a bite of bacon and gives Chessy a smile. Chessy gives
her a stare.
CHESSY

Very smooth. Your Dad wants you to go over to his office
as soon as you're done with breakfast.
Annie

He does? Thanks.

(shoves bacon in her mouth)

I'm done.
She rises as Sammy enters, sees Annie and GROWLS as he scoots around
her.
Annie

That dog has gotten so weird! Bye, Chessy, thanks again
for breakfast. It was great.
Chessy looks down at the plate of untouched food. Annie pushes on
the screen door but it goes nowhere.
CHESSY

(watching her carefully)

Pull, Hal.
Annie laughs, pulls on the door and runs out. CAMERA MOVES IN on
Chessy, wondering what's going on.

INT. Parker VINEYARDS - BARREL ROOM - A
LITTLE LATER
Nick and Annie walk through a huge vaulted room that houses hundreds of
wooden barrels filled with wine.
NICK

(puts his arm around her)

Honey, I'm glad you're here, there's something really important
I want to talk to you about.
66.

Annie

That's funny because there's something really important I want
to talk to you about.
NICK