THE SILENT MOVIE THEATRE
by
Jared Battaglia
From behind, a FIGURE in a crisp black tuxedo stands before a lit industrial-scale furnace. Soon, the flames rise higher and spread out around us.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - ESTABLISHING
MOVE IN towards a once-grand 1920s single-screen cinema on a depressed city block. Faded retro neon signage which spells out The Silent Movie Theatre. Dusty windows. Graffiti tags scrawled across the door.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY
The creak of heavy dust-caked art deco doors opening. GREG ROUS, 30s, slips inside and wipes gunk from the greasy handle off his hands with a rag.
Dressed in a t-shirt and thrift-store jeans. Bag full of tools and a backpack slung over his shoulder. He glances around at the decaying walls.
GREG Looks like we got our work cut out for us.
His bright-eyed fiancée CARMEN TURKEL, 30s, follows him in, hair back in a tight bun. She carries a cleaning caddy stocked with supplies in her hand. A vivacious free-spirit you can’t help but be drawn to.
CARMEN We got this.
Carmen surveys the space. Moves past a glass-encased BOX OFFICE at the entrance where tickets were once sold.
GREG The roofers are fixing some leaks, but we’ll have a lot to oversee and do ourselves.
CARMEN Look at all those ornate cornices and crown moldings. This place is just waiting to be brought back from the dead.
Her gaze dances up at the ceiling across vintage light fixtures and a timeworn grand chandelier.
2.
GREG There’s a reason why it’s a designated historic landmark.
CARMEN We’ll make it beautiful again.
She goes over to the concession stand, admiring the empty popcorn machine, an antique soda fountain glass and display case that once held candy.
GREG I think I read somewhere movie theaters make most of their money off concessions.
CARMEN We’ll offer all the classics, but with a twist - candies with retro packaging, small-batch craft sodas, and unique seasonings for popcorn.
Greg nods, envisioning the potential.
GREG Let’s make it happen.
Carmen surveys the theater in disrepair, nods hesitantly.
CARMEN It’ll be a ton of work, but we can get there.
GREG Glad you’re doing this with me.
He puts his hands on her waist. She turns, smiles warmly and drapes her arms around his neck.
CARMEN I had some flexibility in my schedule after my agent dropped me.
GREG He’ll regret it.
CARMEN Everyone deserves a second act. Even this theater. And we’re going to give it one.
A beat.
3.
GREG Would’ve been nice if my great- grandfather had gotten his.
Carmen’s eyes fall on a movie poster across the way. She walks towards it.
CARMEN This him?
Greg slides up next to her, wipes dust from the cracked glass frame with a rag.
GREG The one and only Norton Rous.
Carmen studies the aged poster titled Moonlight Serenade. NORTON ROUS, 30s, the star of countless silent films, is front and center looking dapper in a tailcoat and bow tie.
CARMEN Looks just like you. It’s uncanny.
Greg can’t deny his dead-ringer resemblance.
GREG Creepy, huh?
CARMEN A little... (reads the title) Moonlight Serenade.
GREG His last film before The Talkies came along and ruined his career.
Carmen raises an eyebrow.
CARMEN Did you ever watch it?
GREG No, it’s a lost film. The negatives were destroyed.
CARMEN That happened to so many films back then. I hate that.
GREG At least now we can try to revive this place.
4.
Carmen glances over at a greasy full-length mirror against the wall by the concession stand.
CARMEN Let’s start with this amazing Hollywood Regency-style mirror.
She approaches the mirror, spraying it with glass cleaner and some Goo-Gone. Greg stands behind her, puts his chin on her shoulder lovingly.
GREG You know they say a mirror can trap a person’s soul.
They study their reflection in the slowly clearing glass. She cracks a smile.
CARMEN We should avoid that. Come on, I want the rest of the tour.
She takes his hand and he leads her through the lobby. The CAMERA TRACKS IN after them as they move forward.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM
Greg tries the lights. No dice. They turn on flashlights from his backpack and walk down the grandiose aisle.
Rotten seats flipped up, yesteryear popcorn bags scattered on the floor. A rat scurries by their feet.
CARMEN (winces) Need to get some humane rat traps in here.
GREG Or a couple feral cats.
She frowns.
CARMEN Mean.
GREG And here we have the pièce de résistance.
They gaze ahead at the velvet curtain-covered movie screen. Dust motes dance in the dim light of the exit signs.
5.
CARMEN Looks like a movie hasn’t been played on that screen in decades.
GREG Most likely.
CARMEN I love it though. And you’ll make me program director?
Greg nods.
GREG ‘Course. You’ve got great taste.
CARMEN Good. I want to do mondo late-night movies every Thursday and Friday for film fans. International films on Sunday nights for the high-brow cinephiles. And of course, plenty of silent films throughout the week.
GREG I’ll defer to your movie aficionado brain on all those matters.
CARMEN (smiles proudly) Thank you very much.
She bows slightly.
INT. STAIRWELL - A LITTLE LATER
Greg and Carmen climb a flight of paint-chipped stairs. Flashlights guiding them towards a door at the top landing.
INT. PROJECTION BOOTH - CONTINUOUS
The couple enters a gloomy, cramped room. More dust motes float in the air, illuminated by their flashlights.
GREG And this is where the magic happens.
6.
An antiquated 35 mm film projector sits in the back aligned with the projection window, surrounded by piles of celluloid prints. Shelves line the walls, cluttered with film reels, old speakers, and vintage audio equipment.
CARMEN Looks like a bomb went off in here.
GREG Tell me about it.
Carmen moves closer to the projector, brushing cobwebs off an old film reel. A faint scratching noise echoes from the back of the room, barely noticeable.
CARMEN Did you hear that?
GREG (pauses, listens) Probably more rats. This place has seen better days.
Carmen picks up a dusty film reel, her fingers leaving streaks in the grime.
CARMEN I hope we can salvage these. There might be some lost gems here.
Greg nods, turning his flashlight towards a dusty shelf. A glint catches his eye - an old film labeled “1927 - The Silent Curse.” He pulls it down, wiping away the dirt to reveal the title.
GREG Hey look at this. The Silent Curse. Ever heard of it?
CARMEN (frowning) No, but with a title like that, it’s probably a horror film.
He grins.
GREG Let’s play it one night.
Carmen shivers slightly, and they continue to explore. As they turn to leave, the projector suddenly whirs to life for a brief moment before going silent again. Carmen jumps, clutching Greg’s arm.
7.
CARMEN (startled) What the hell was that?
GREG Must be a power surge. Old wiring.
They exchange uneasy glances and quickly exit the projection booth, leaving the room in darkness once more.
INT. BALCONY SEATING
The couple stands on the balcony, peering down at the grandiose yet decayed theater below.
CARMEN (curious) What else do you know about this place besides your great- grandfather buying it back-in-the- day to keep silent films alive?
GREG (thoughtful) It became more than just a theater. There’s all kinds of legends surrounding this place.
CARMEN We need to lean into that. Play up the weird history. People love immersive experiences nowadays.
GREG Then we’ll have to do some more digging and see what else turns up during the renovations.
They both smile, imagining the possibilities.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - OFFICE
Greg sorts through the manager’s desk, piled high with papers and faded photographs.
CARMEN They just left all this stuff here after all these years?
GREG Looks that way.
8.
CARMEN Surreal how this place was once thriving and now forgotten by time.
Greg finds a sepia-toned photograph of a grand movie premiere for Moonlight Serenade, held in front of the very theater they are now refurbishing.
GREG Look at this.
Carmen steps closer, peering at the photograph with interest. She spots Norton elegantly dressed in the crowd, who again looks almost exactly like Greg.
CARMEN (sly) There you are, the silent movie star.
She smiles cheekily. Greg studies the photograph.
GREG He does look a lot like me.
CARMEN It’s more than just a passing resemblance. You’ve got a doppelgänger great-grandfather.
Gloves on, Carmen picks up an old ashtray and empties the contents in a trash bag.
GREG I’m not going to lie, it kind of freaks me out.
CARMEN Good genes at least, right?
GREG I’ll take it.
Carmen scans her eyes around the office filled with a mishmash of forgotten treasures.
CARMEN This place is such a time capsule.
GREG Feels like a forgotten chapter in someone else’s story.
9.
CARMEN Now ours to unravel.
She grins, moves her body between his legs. He leans back against the desk. They make out. After:
GREG Let’s get to work. Shall we?
They pull away reluctantly. Carmen spots something unusual in the open desk drawer - a dusty, ornate key.
CARMEN What do you think this unlocks?
Greg takes the key and examines it, a flicker of curiosity in his eyes.
GREG Something’s bound to come up while we get this place in order.
CUT TO:
MONTAGE
1) Greg and Carmen roll up their sleeves, don gloves and grab brooms to sweep away debris from the theater floor.
2) The pair hoist old equipment out of the theater and dump it into a dumpster in the alley outside.
3) As they work, Greg and Carmen uncover hidden treasures amidst the clutter. They pause to examine vintage posters, old film reels, and other memorabilia.
4) Armed with cleaning supplies, Greg and Carmen set to work scrubbing floors and dusting off neglected fixtures. With each swipe of the cloth, the theater begins to shine once more, its beauty slowly emerging from beneath decades of neglect.
5) As the montage draws to a close, Greg and Carmen stand side by side, surveying their progress. Though their work is far from finished, they can already see the transformation taking place before their eyes.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM
Carmen dumps more junk in a big trash bin. She wipes sweat from her forehead.
10.
CARMEN This is shaping up to be a massive refurb.
GREG It’s a good start. We’re gonna get people going back to the theater with this place.
CARMEN That’s what I want. Movie theaters can still be this timeless tradition of communal enjoyment.
She smiles wistfully. Greg’s eyes drift towards the big screen in tatters before them.
GREG There is something magical about collectively immersing ourselves in a story on the big screen.
Carmen crosses her arms.
CARMEN But we’re doing all the work here, what about Boyd? This was supposed to be a partnership.
GREG He put up most of the money so we could buy it back. And I’d do the nitty-gritty. That’s the deal.
CARMEN I know but I don’t want you to be taken advantage of, having Boyd trading on your family name and everything. The guy’s got a laundry list of people he’s burned.
GREG Don’t worry, I won’t get burned.
Carmen’s eyes flicker with uncertainty.
CARMEN (pivots) We need some air. It’s so stuffy in here.
She goes over, props open one of the entrance doors.
11.
A WOMAN’S VOICE (O.S.) Are you the new owner?
JELENA FARRAGUT, 50s, stands in the open door smoking a cigarette on the step. Her whole face lights up with a beaming smile. Curly hair, dressed in a dark maroon scoop neck shirt with a cardigan over it and a beaded necklace on.
Carmen jumps back, startled by Jelena’s sudden appearance.
CARMEN Oh my God. You scared me.
Jelena chuckles a little.
JELENA Mea culpa, mea culpa. I’m Jelena Farragut with the Historical Society. Are you the new owner?
She takes a final drag of her cigarette, drops it to the ground. Crushes it under her foot.
CARMEN He is.
Carmen steps aside, indicates Greg tying up a trash bag behind her. Jelena crosses the threshold.
GREG One of them. I’m Greg, this is Carmen.
He goes over. They shake hands. Jelena lights up, looking starry-eyed as she takes the theater in.
JELENA What a job you’re doing in here. Pat yourselves on the back you two and color me impressed.
Carmen nods, proud of their work thus far.
CARMEN It’s coming along.
GREG (guarded) We’re just not ready to show it to the public yet.
JELENA Don’t worry, my lips are sealed.
12.
She motions zipping her lips.
GREG Community outreach is important. We want this to be a gathering spot for tourists and locals alike to keep coming back.
JELENA They will, once it gets its groove back. This is a forgotten LA institution after all.
CARMEN Sure you’ve got some great insights about this place.
Jelena flashes her eyebrows conspiratorial.
JELENA Oh, I do. The theater has quite an illustrious past.
GREG We’re excited to be doing our part in preserving its legacy.
JELENA And your great-grandfather’s?
Greg, didn’t know she’d made the connection.
GREG That too.
Jelena regards the Moonlight Serenade movie poster.
JELENA I saw the resemblance immediately.
CARMEN I couldn’t believe my eyes when I looked at the poster. I knew Greg was related to a silent movie star but I never got around to Google’d him.
GREG And you Google everything.
CARMEN Not your great-grandpa apparently.
Jelena crosses the room to the Moonlight Serenade poster.
13.
JELENA Moonlight Serenade was considered a masterpiece. One of the greats. Greg, have you been told lots of stories about Norton?
GREG Mostly just what’s on Wikipedia. He was from Oklahoma. Rous was a stage name but we kept it. Maybe I should go on that PBS show with Henry Louis Gates Jr. Have him straighten the whole thing out.
Jelena waves her hand dismissively.
JELENA We don’t need Henry Louis Gates Jr. I can fill the gaps. This theater is timeless, it was once the nerve center for silent films in Los Angeles - “the City of Dreams.”
Jelena extends her arm grandiosely and sweeps her hand outward with a flourish, much like a silent film actor.
CARMEN Would be great to pick your brain about it sometime.
GREG Maybe after the project’s complete?
Jelena shakes her head.
JELENA Can’t wait that long. Any tidbits I have could give you a deeper understanding of this place as you work your magic.
She clenches her fists, subtly thrusts her pelvis forward and back. Carmen looks to Greg.
CARMEN That is a good point.
Jelena snaps her fingers.
JELENA Come on, test me out. Let’s go. All I ask is you give me a sneak peek of what you’ve been up to in here.
14.
Her eyes twinkle with mischief.
GREG Seems fair.
CUT TO:
EXT. OTHER END OF THE THEATRE - SOON AFTER
Jelena walks side by side with Greg and Carmen through the Art Deco-style theater, expressing approval for all the intricate details that have been given new life.
JELENA There were so many premieres here before The Talkies. Norton put in a lot of work to make this a shrine to silent films that could stand the test of time forever.
CARMEN That’s why we want to preserve the integrity and character of this place as much as possible.
JELENA So far, so good.
She puts her hands on her hips, taking it all in.
GREG There’s still a ton of work to do.
JELENA I have to say I was a bit nervous about young people coming in here with all kinds of weird colors and tasteless art.
CARMEN Not us, we love old theaters.
Jelena sighs, touches her heart.
JELENA So do I. I’m with Tarantino -- 35 mm or go home. I miss getting that whiff of the chemical smell from the big film reels, remember?
GREG Been a minute.
15.
JELENA Nostalgia is everywhere here.
She briefly closes her eyes at the memories. Smiles fondly.
CARMEN Know anything about a film called The Silent Curse?
Jelena thinks for a moment.
JELENA Oh, I remember that one. The Silent Curse was a controversial film. Several accidents on set, actors disappearing... most copies were destroyed they said.
CARMEN Was Norton a part of it?
JELENA Yes, it’s a picture he would have liked to have forgotten, given that people say it’s a cursed film...
On Greg, slightly amused.
GREG A cursed film? That’s the first I’ve heard of it.
CARMEN (determined) We have to screen it after the renovations, could be a big draw.
JELENA (intrigued) You have a copy?
CARMEN We found one in the projection booth.
JELENA Probably best you don’t show it.
GREG Gotta keep the lights on somehow, right?
But Jelena’s still uneasy.
16.
JELENA Even if it’s just a bunch of hearsay and rumors, my philosophy? Best not to tempt fate.
Greg and Carmen exchange an unsure glance.
INT. LOBBY - A LITTLE LATER
Greg closes the doors after Jelena leaves and secures the lock. He looks over at Carmen now by the concessions stand cleaning out the antique popcorn maker with paper towels.
GREG That was odd.
CARMEN She’s intense but exactly the kind of repeat customer this place is going to need for the new incarnation.
GREG I still think we should screen The Silent Curse.
Carmen smiles.
CARMEN Of course. Hey, I saw some light bulbs in the manager’s office that should work for the chandelier.
She points up at the opulent chandelier hanging from the ceiling in the center of the lobby. A few bulbs are out.
GREG I’m on it.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY
Greg climbs a step ladder. He reaches up to change a bulb.
INT. RESTROOM - SAME TIME
A grand, ornate bathroom. Dulling marble countertops. Vintage fixtures. The overhead lights flicker intermittently.
Carmen steps out of the stall, goes over to the sink, and washes her hands. As she turns on the faucet, water sputters out in fits and starts.
17.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY
As Greg unscrews the bulb, a decorative crystal detaches from the old chandelier and crashes to the floor, narrowly missing him.
He loses his balance, stumbling off the ladder and lands hard on the floor. Groans.
As he lies there, catching his breath, he notices something in the shattered glass.
A fleeting reflection of a face appears. Looks just like him but with an unsettling difference - a piercing intense gaze.
CARMEN (O.S.) Oh my God, Greg - are you okay?
Carmen returns. Greg sits up.
GREG I’m fine.
CARMEN Be careful, babe. Oh, and the faucet in the women’s bathroom is acting up.
GREG I’ll check the pipes.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - BASEMENT
Greg reaches the bottom of the stairs. He stiffens at the sight of a hulking furnace with a large rusted metal door at the far end. Carmen follows closely behind him, her eyes scan the dimly lit space.
CARMEN This place gives me the creeps. Do you see the water pipes anywhere?
GREG They should be over here by the furnace. Let’s take a look.
Carmen points to a section of piping that appears corroded.
CARMEN Greg, look at this, I think I found the problem.
He examines the pipes with his flashlight.
18.
GREG Yeah, it’s pretty bad. We’ll have to replace this section.
Greg’s flashlight flickers. A sudden draft of cold air.
CARMEN Feel that?
GREG Must be a cold spot.
Carmen notices the old furnace.
CARMEN Do you think that’s the same furnace where it happened?
GREG Yeah, I’m pretty sure it is. Is it morbid for me to be doing this?
Greg glances over his shoulder.
CARMEN How do we know that old Hollywood legend about Norton walking into the furnace is even true?
GREG He was in a lot of pain from what I was told. I don’t know how he could’ve done that when my grandfather was so young.
CARMEN People didn’t have an awareness as much about mental health issues back then that we do now.
GREG Used to be this fun thing to say at drinks that I’m the great-grandson of an old silent movie star. But not everyone knew the whole story.
CARMEN Now they will. This project is going to honor him and help paint a more complete picture.
GREG I just want it to work out, you know? (MORE)
19.
GREG (CONT’D) Not like my short-lived acting career or failed screenwriting dreams.
CARMEN It will. And you can still be a screenwriter, it’s not too late.
GREG If I ever do, they’ll just write in the Deadline Hollywood comments that I’m a “Nepo Baby.”
CARMEN Oh please, come on, your family is more known for their artisan bread in San Luis Obispo if anything.
She links her arm with his.
GREG That’s probably true.
CARMEN Let’s get out of here.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM - LATER
The theater is quiet. Only the soft hum of the projector waiting to come to life. Greg and Carmen stands in the middle of the space, happy with the inroads being made.
CARMEN Let’s watch The Silent Curse.
GREG Now?
CARMEN Why not?
Greg considers.
GREG I’m game.
INT. PROJECTION BOOTH - SOON AFTER
Greg carefully threads the film through the projector, his hands steady but the excitement palpable.
20.
GREG Alright, it’s all set. Ready?
CARMEN Just a movie, right?
They exchange a look.
GREG Right. I’ll start it and then join you downstairs. Gimme a minute.
Carmen nods, a smile of anticipation on her face.
CARMEN I’ll go get us some good seats.
INT. AUDITORIUM - NIGHT
Carmen walks down the aisle, her footsteps echoing in the empty theater. She takes a seat in the middle row, looking up at the blank screen.
INT. PROJECTION BOOTH - NIGHT
Greg flips the switch. The projector whirs to life. The beam of light cuts through darkness.
The film starts rolling. He watches for a moment, making sure everything’s running smoothly.
INT. AUDITORIUM - NIGHT
The screen flickers, and the title card appears -
THESILENT CURSE
Starring, Written for the Screen, & Directed by
Norton Rous
Carmen’s eyes widen as the film begins. Greg hurries down the stars. He slides into the seat next to Carmen.
The scene fades in to a shadowy forest, where a MYSTERIOUS FIGURE in a long cloak, played by Norton Rous, moves through the mist.
INTERTITLE: In the depths of the forest, a dark secret stirs...
21.
The figure approaches an ancient stone altar covered in strange symbols.
He reads from the pages of a grimoire, begins to chant (but we don’t hear it). The camera zooms in on his intense eyes.
INTERTITLE: The ritual must be completed to break the curse...
The film cuts to a woman in a flowing white dress, running through the forest. Her face is pale, her expression terrified.
She stumbles upon the altar, her eyes wide with horror as she recognizes the cloaked figure.
INTERTITLE: But at what cost?
A series of rapid cuts: the woman opens her mouth and screams but no sound comes out.
We see supernatural phenomena - trees bending, shadows twisting, and ghostly figures appearing in the midst.
The film jumps and skips. The picture on screen stutters. Abruptly, the image freezes, then stops entirely. The screen goes blank.
INT. AUDITORIUM - NIGHT
Greg and Carmen exchange worried glances as the picture on screen goes black. The projector above emits a loud clunk, followed by the filmstrip flapping noisily in the booth.
GREG Projector must’ve jammed.
CARMEN Guess the curse isn’t just a movie.
Greg catches a quick glimmer of a symbol in red on screen - a strange, intricate design resembling an ancient rune, with jagged lines and a spiral at its center.
GREG Did you see that?
CARMEN (looking confused) See what?
22.
GREG Some sort of symbol just flashed on the screen.
CARMEN I missed it. Maybe it was put in there to influence movie-goers to buy popcorn from the concession stands.
She flashes a smile.
GREG I don’t think so.
Greg tries to hide his uneasiness.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY
Greg and Carmen head back out into the lobby. They find BOYD BRACKETT, 40s, a deep-pocketed investor, awaiting them. His eyes slowly wander around the theater. Slick-backed hair in an expensive suit and a bit imposing.
BOYD Looking good guys, looking real good in here.
GREG Boyd, didn’t know you’d be showing up today.
They slap hands.
BOYD I was in the neighborhood, just finished up a splatter paint session with a client. Thought I’d stop by.
CARMEN About time.
Carmen smiles, feigns politeness.
BOYD Good to see you too, Carmen. And who was that I saw walking out of here earlier while I was doing a call in my car?
23.
GREG Jelena, she’s with the Historical Society.
BOYD Which one?
GREG A local one, I think.
CARMEN She’s going to help with research.
BOYD Alright, just make sure we keep things under wraps for now. No press until we’re ready.
Greg nods his head.
GREG Got it. No press.
BOYD Show me the auditorium.
He indicates towards the doors ahead.
GREG Sure.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM
Greg leads Boyd through the doors into the darkened auditorium. Rows of worn velvet seats stretch out before them, their faded grandeur hinting at the theater’s former glory days.
Boyd’s eyes dart around the space, taking in the silent stillness of the room.
BOYD This place has a vibe to it.
Greg nods, his gaze sweeping over the rows of seats.
GREG It’s got that old-school charm. We’ve done most of the clearing out. The project manager and his team will be starting soon.
24.
As they navigate through the aisle, their footsteps echo softly. Boyd seems satisfied.
BOYD Think we can make the deadline?
GREG We’re gonna do everything in our power to.
The light from the projector above flickers over Boyd’s face.
BOYD Did that go on by itself?
Greg lands on the projection booth above.
GREG Yeah, I think it’s old wiring.
BOYD Or is it haunted?
Boyd smirks.
GREG Wouldn’t put it past this place.
BOYD Love it. We’ll make boatloads of cash during Halloween.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY - SOON AFTER
Boyd glances at his watch.
BOYD How about you and Carmen join Mabel and I at that new spot on Fairfax?
GREG Sure, if Carmen wants to.
Greg looks at Carmen, busy painting a section of the lobby walls. She looks up, a bit of paint smudged on her cheek.
CARMEN We were just going to order Thai food at our place and be low key.
BOYD Sounds boring.
25.
GREG (to Carmen) It’ll be fun.
CARMEN Guess I don’t want to be boring.
Carmen forces a smile, tries to mask her disappointment.
INT. GREG’S PRIUS - (TRAVELING) - NIGHT
Greg drives. Carmen rides in the passenger seat.
GREG It’s only dinner.
CARMEN Boyd’s just a lot.
She glances out the window. The glow of the city streets reflecting off her face.
GREG I wouldn’t have been able to pull this off without him.
CARMEN Doesn’t mean we have to hang out with the guy, does it?
GREG Kind of does. He’s one of our key stakeholders. What’s really going on? Is something on your mind?
A long beat.
CARMEN I’ve been thinking a lot about Norton. It seems like there’s so many unanswered questions surrounding his death. What could’ve happened to him?
Greg keeps his eyes on the road.
GREG Before he went into the furnace?
CARMEN Yeah.
26.
GREG Guess he suffered some sort of breakdown. He didn’t want to let go of silent films.
CARMEN That’s so sad.
GREG Not every story has a happy ending.
INT. TRENDY RESTAURANT - NIGHT
Greg and Carmen sit at a table with Boyd and his stylish wife MABEL MORINO in a frilly dress, owner of a much-loved Silver Lake vintage boutique. They share a bottle of wine at a pop- up restaurant serving experimental cuisine.
MABEL You’re like cinema royalty, Greg. This whole time I had no idea.
GREG Not really.
BOYD Did you ever want to be an actor like your great-grandfather?
GREG I was. I thought you knew?
BOYD You know me, I can never keep everyone’s backstory straight.
CARMEN We did a pilot together ten years ago on The CW.
Greg hates to talk about it.
GREG LA Prep. They didn’t pick it up.
CARMEN Was supposed to be the next Gossip Girl. It’s how we met actually. He was so good in it and such a giving scene partner.
GREG I was the “dick.”
27.
Boyd crosses his arms.
BOYD I can’t see it. You’re such a sweet guy, Greg.
MABEL Who did you play Carmen?
CARMEN This misunderstood scholarship student trying to fit in.
GREG My character was so mean to her. I don’t even remember his name. Logan, Craig, or something?
CARMEN He confronts me at this prep school party in front of the popular kids and says - (sneers, points) “You don’t belong here.”
GREG Every other role I read for after that was always a trust fund asshole. I grew up in a small town, I’m not that guy.
Carmen touches his hand.
CARMEN He’s really not. And his writing is so good. He had a script on The Black List five years ago.
MABEL Thought The Black List was a bad thing?
CARMEN No, it’s a good thing for screenwriters.
MABEL But you’re still acting, right Carmen?
CARMEN You know, it comes in cycles. I have an Etsy store for my miniatures that pays the bills. (MORE)
28.
CARMEN (CONT’D) But now all my energy is going into refurbishing The Silent Movie Theatre with Greg.
MABEL Don’t you miss it though?
CARMEN I don’t have much choice at the moment. I came close to landing an indie. I was going to play this “manic pixie dream girl”, which is so outdated and male gaze-y. But the script called for me to simulate a blow job on the lead actor, who was also the director. I just wasn’t comfortable with that.
MABEL Understandable.
CARMEN Hey, at least I don’t have to do Only Fans, right? Not that I have anything against sex workers.
Mabel nods.
MABEL They’re providing a service. It should be decriminalized.
BOYD None of the younger gen-whatever care about movies or Hollywood anymore. They just want to watch IRL streamers.
CARMEN What’s that?
BOYD Ya know these kids live-stream themselves outside to their agoraphobic followers - (pantomimes a phone in front of his face) Like, “Hi, I’m here at the park, while you’re at home with your self- diagnosed social anxiety.”
Boyd makes a fart noise. Mabel chuckles.
29.
MABEL They’re so soft.
BOYD Either way, I’m glad I’m out of that business.
He sips his wine.
CARMEN You were in the business?
BOYD Yeah, I was a junior agent for two years at CAA before I got into real estate. Most of the clients I rep’d did those navel-gazing Sundance- type movies.
GREG Why’d you quit? I never asked.
BOYD (matter-of-factly) Got fired. Hugged some assistant. She said I grazed her boob.
He makes a face. Mabel avoids eye contact.
CARMEN Did you graze her boob, Boyd?
BOYD I don’t remember, it’s all a blur. I loved the parties though. There was always so much sushi. Piles and piles of sushi.
MABEL There’s too much schadenfreude in entertainment. Boyd’s better off without it. Plus, now he has more time for the important things.
BOYD Like giving you the Princess Treatment?
MABEL And you enjoy every moment of it.
They share a knowing smile.
30.
GREG Well, Hollywood’s still a big part of the cultural fabric of this city. Reviving The Silent Movie Theatre feels like the right move.
BOYD Better be for all the money I’m sinking into that place.
Boyd raises his glass, giving Greg a pointed look.
CARMEN (PRE-LAP) I hate the way Boyd talks to you.
INT. BEACHWOOD CANYON HOME - NIGHT
Cozy open plan house. Carmen sits at the dinner table, which doubles as her makeshift art studio. Miniature tools and tiny paint pots cover the surface. A magnifying lamp hangs overhead, illuminating her work.
GREG You know, I don’t let things like that bother me.
Greg steps in from the kitchen, a glass of water in his hand.
CARMEN He’s just an ick for me.
Greg notices her meticulously crafting The Silent Movie Theatre in miniature form.
GREG The miniature looks great. Want to call it a day though?
He stands behind her chair, rubs her shoulder.
CARMEN Yeah, or squeeze in a little extra activity?
Her gaze meets his.
INT. BEDROOM - NIGHT
Greg is on top of Carmen in bed, maintaining his rhythm. She smiles up at him. Afterwards, Carmen falls asleep in Greg’s arms. But he can’t get to sleep just yet, the day’s events linger in his mind.
31.
INT. BUNGALOW HOME - BEDROOM - DAYBREAK - (BLACK & WHITE)
Sunlight streams into the room. Greg awakens under colorful bedding. His eyes adjust, noticing a chrome alarm clock resting on a nightstand beside him.
There’s also a glass of water, a chic early 20th-century design lamp, and a fresh copy of Screenland Magazine. This is not the bedroom he shares with Carmen.
A WOMAN’S VOICE (O.S.) Good morning, sleepyhead.
Greg turns over, sees a comely YOUNG WOMAN with bright red hair in her robe sitting in front of a mirror applying make- up at an Art Deco-style vanity.
YOUNG WOMAN Are you excited? We’re going to have a wonderful night at the movies.
She flashes him a grin. Unsettled, Greg does not speak. She whistles a familiar tune. Then, eyes back at him.
YOUNG WOMAN (CONT’D) Come on lazybones, out of bed. Sing it with me now --
She hops up from her seat with jazz hands and sways her hips from side-to-side.
YOUNG WOMAN (CONT’D) Hello! Ma baby, hello! Ma honey, hello! Ma ragtime gal --
Fade to black on Greg’s shocked face.
EXT. BEACHWOOD CANYON HOME
Greg sips coffee from a ceramic mug in an Adirondack chair on the wraparound deck. Carmen exits the sliding doors with her cup. She can tell something’s bothering.
CARMEN Everything okay?
She sits down in the chair beside him.
GREG Did you see anything strange at the theater?
32.
CARMEN Not especially. Why?
GREG Something felt off.
CARMEN This project hits close to home for you, Greg. It’s normal to go down the rabbit hole.
GREG I had a weird dream last night.
CARMEN Oh? Better not have been about another woman.
She shoots him a playful look.
GREG The stuff with Norton. It’s awful when you think about.
CARMEN I know, but I already have enough vicarious trauma already from reading so many disturbing news stories.
GREG Vicarious trauma?
CARMEN When you get like intense empathy and sadness for murder victims you read about but never knew. And you’re depressed about it for days.
GREG Alright, well let’s not get too wrapped up in the Norton stories then.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY
Greg and Carmen meet the project manager FRANK, a burly man with a thick beard, and his TEAM OF WORKMEN in the lobby. The group includes electricians, carpenters, and masons.
33.
FRANK (extends his hand) You must be Greg and Carmen. I’m Frank, your project manager.
Greg and Carmen shake Frank’s hand.
GREG Good to meet you Frank, thanks for taking this thing on with us.
CARMEN Excited to get started.
FRANK We’re all set to begin. Boyd sent the payment over.
GREG Good, we’ll walk you through everything.
FRANK Lead the way.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM
Greg and Carmen guide Frank and the workmen through the auditorium. Dust sheets cover the rows of seats, and scaffolding lines the walls.
FRANK (pointing) We’ll start with the screen and the seating. And check for any structural damage.
The team unloads tools and materials. They remove dust sheets from the seats. Carmen and Greg observe the progress.
CARMEN (to Frank) How long do you think it’ll take?
FRANK (consulting his clipboard) If we don’t hit any major snags, a few months.
Cut to the sounds of work echo through the theater. Greg and Carmen share a satisfied look.
34.
GREG This is really happening.
The camera pans out, showing the historic movie theater coming to life with activity.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY - DAY
An INSPECTOR from the city, a study man in his 50s with graying hair and glasses, arrives with a toolbox in hand.
INSPECTOR We need to make sure the building meets safety and code standards.
GREG Sure, whatever you need.
The Inspector checks his clipboard.
INSPECTOR How do you say your last name?
GREG Just like house but with an R.
INSPECTOR And when are you planning on opening?
GREG A couple months.
The Inspector raises a skeptical eyebrow. He notices the flickering lights and frowns.
Greg exchanges a look with Carmen.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - BASEMENT - ANOTHER DAY
Frank and some workmen navigate through the cluttered basement. Rusty pipes line the walls, dripping occasionally.
FRANK (to his team) Pipes are in bad shape. We need to replace them before they cause anymore damage.
Greg and Carmen are hard at work clearing out old junk.
35.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - HALLWAY
Frank oversees the installation of new wiring. Workmen repair structural elements in the hallway.
FRANK (to his team) Make sure all the wiring is up to code.
Nearby, Carmen carefully polishes old fixtures. A walkie- talkie secured to her belt buckle, crackling occasionally with static.
INT. STOREROOM - DAY
Greg explores storage, taking inventory of any salvageable old equipment and supplies. He discovers promotional materials for silent films and tattered scripts.
Greg finds a cardboard box with archival film reels. He checks the labels, one is marked Midnight Serenade.
GREG Well, I’ll be damned...
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - DAY
A little later, Frank works alone with his flashlight. He wipes sweat from his brow. He strains to loosen a stubborn pipe with his wrench. The pipe finally breaks free.
As Frank inspects the wall where the pipe was, he notices something unusual - a faint outline of a door. Hidden behind a layer of grime and rust.
FRANK (to himself) What the hell...
He brushes away the dirt, revealing a small, old-fashioned locked door. Weathered wood, iron lock corroded.
Frank leans closer, shining his flashlight on the door. He tries the handle, but it’s firmly locked.
INT. PROJECTION ROOM
Greg delicately cleans and catalogs the old film reels, documenting their condition. Carmen pokes her head in, a curious smile on her face.
36.
CARMEN How’s it going in here?
Greg looks up from his work, holding a delicate film reel with white gloves.
GREG We need to be careful with these. I found a copy of the supposedly- destroyed Midnight Serenade to go with The Silent Curse.
Carmen steps into the room, glancing at the reels spread out on the table.
CARMEN That’s good. Did you screen it yet?
GREG Just a few minutes.
CARMEN Any more strange symbols flashing on the big screen?
GREG Not yet.
A crackle comes from the walkie-talkie on Carmen’s belt. Frank’s voice breaks through, slightly distorted by static.
FRANK (over walkie-talkie) Carmen, I found something down in the basement you might want to see.
Carmen and Greg exchange curious looks. Carmen grabs the walkie-talkie and responds.
CARMEN (into walkie-talkie) On our way, Frank.
Greg carefully sets the reel down and they both head out of the projection room, anticipation building.
INT. BASEMENT - SOON AFTER
Carmen and Greg stand before the newly revealed hidden door. They stare at it curiously.
CARMEN This so random.
37.
GREG Do you know what it’s for?
Greg cocks his head at Frank. He shrugs.
FRANK No idea.
Carmen suddenly remembers something and looks to Greg.
CARMEN That key we found in the manager’s office. Greg, you still have it?
GREG Yeah, I’ve got it right here.
Greg pulls out his key chain from his pocket, revealing the ornate key they discovered earlier.
FRANK I’ll let you guys do your thing.
Frank heads up the stairs, leaving Greg and Carmen alone. Greg steps closer to the door, slips the key into the keyhole, and twists. The lock clicks, and he carefully tries the handle.
The door creaks open, revealing darkness beyond.
INT. HIDDEN ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Flashlights reveal a hidden room filled with mysterious symbols, just like the one Greg saw a flash of on screen.
CARMEN (gapes) This is wild.
A collection of ancient books line a wood-rotten shelf. A large, ornate candleholder with melted wax sits in the center, surrounded by a faint chalk circle on the floor. Strange diagrams and handwritten notes are pinned to the walls.
GREG Could this have been a set?
She runs her fingers over a chalk symbol on the wall.
38.
CARMEN Down here, back then? I don’t think so. Everything was done on sound stages mostly, right?
GREG Yeah, it doesn’t make much sense.
Greg picks up an old journal, its filled with cryptic writings and drawings in the back. But the front pages look like typical journal entries.
CARMEN What’s that?
He notices Norton Rous scrawled on the front endpaper.
GREG Looks like a journal that belonged to Norton.
CARMEN Why would he have all this occult- looking stuff?
An odd beat.
GREG I don’t know.
Carmen glances at a dusty grimoire, then notices a collection of worn candles arranged in a pattern on a nearby table.
INTERCUT WITH:
INT. THEATER LOBBY - CONTINUOUS
Jelena enters the lobby, accompanied by her friends SHELBY and DOREEN by her side.
Shelby has wild, untamed hair and neon glasses, which contrasts sharply with more conservatively dressed Doreen.
JELENA Hello, hello?! Greg? Carmen? Are you here?
Her voice echoes through the building. Their eyes dance around the space.
DOREEN The theater looks remarkable.
39.
SHELBY I’ll say.
JELENA It’s like traveling back in time, isn’t it girls? This is one of America’s first temples of storytelling.
BACK TO:
INT. HIDDEN ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Greg and Carmen freeze, recognizing Jelena’s voice upstairs.
GREG Jelena...
CARMEN Let’s keep this room locked and not tell anyone about it.
Greg nods.
INT. THEATER LOBBY - SOON AFTER
Greg and Carmen come up from the basement, trying to remain polite but visibly bothered by the fact Jelena has brought visitors by.
CARMEN Hey Jelena.
A guilty look on her face.
JELENA The door was unlocked. I wanted to show my friends the theater. This is long-time locals, Shelby Olmsted and Doreen Myers.
GREG Hello, ladies. Are you with the Historical Society too?
He steps forward, shakes their hands.
SHELBY Yes, but I’m more of a true crime buff, especially when it comes to Old Hollywood. Most people get hot for The Black Dahlia, but me? (MORE)
40.
SHELBY (CONT’D) I like those more under-the-radar stories like the ones surrounding this place.
CARMEN I didn’t know of any true crime incidents connected to the theater.
SHELBY You know about Norton - did he walk into the furnace or did someone throw him in? No one really knows.
Her eyes widen, eyebrows raise - much like the exaggerated gestures associated with silent films.
GREG I didn’t realize foul play was ever suspected.
DOREEN Oh, Shelby’s got so many theories, she could talk for hours about it.
JELENA But that’s for another day, we want to assist you in digging up dirt on this place as promised. So, we came bearing gifts.
She regards the hand-bound leather folio in her arms.
INT. MANAGER'S OFFICE - A SHORT TIME LATER
Jelena spreads out old blueprints and diaries from the theater’s history on the desk. Greg and Carmen stand nearby with Shelby and Doreen.
JELENA This theater was originally built in 1923, five years before Norton purchased it in a bid to save silent films from the influx of Talkies.
She picks out an old, dusty file labeled “Norton Rous” from her folio.
DOREEN I don’t blame him. They were making cinematic art back then. Not like the stuff they make today.
41.
Greg and Carmen scan over the documents.
CARMEN Couldn’t he have just transitioned to sound? Was his voice really high- pitched or something?
SHELBY That was always the missing puzzle piece for me.
She glances at a photograph of a dashing-looking Norton.
CARMEN Then what happened to him? He was such a star.
JELENA I told you, you don’t need Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr., when you’ve got me.
Jelena opens the file and pulls out a yellow memo.
GREG What’s that?
JELENA An old studio record from 1928. It’s a memo written by the studio head about his condition?
CARMEN His condition?
JELENA He was starting to lose his voice.
Greg reads the memo.
GREG “Due to Mr. Rous’s diagnosis of vocal cord paralysis, effective immediately, we regretfully have to end his contract. He is unable to perform in talkies and will no longer be cast in upcoming productions.”
The group listens, the weight of the discovery settling in.
DOREEN That’s tragic. He was at the peak of his career.
42.
JELENA There’s even more archives but we’ll need Mr. Fiske to sign off on those files.
GREG Why does that name sound familiar?
JELENA He’s our local councilman but also the president of the Historical Society.
DOREEN You may remember him as the dad on the mid-90s family sitcom Everyone Outta Bed, which was part of The ABC Network’s beloved TGIF Friday night line-up.
Carmen smiles.
CARMEN I used to watch that show all the time as a kid on Nick-at-Nite.
Greg processes the latest revelations.
GREG There has to be more to the story.
He again notices the faded photograph of the star-studded movie premiere outside the theater.
Norton poses for the camera surrounded by fans, but this time Greg looks closer at the STARLET beside him.
CARMEN Find something?
GREG This woman. Anyone know who she is?
Jelena moves beside him, studies the photograph.
JELENA Assuming his wife? He was married to a lesser-known actress I believe. Who would perhaps be your great-grandmother?
Greg recognizes her from his dream. But she isn’t smiling.
43.
GREG I don’t know much about her. After my grandfather was orphaned, he went to live on a farm my great- uncle had in Central California.
Carmen takes a look.
CARMEN She was in that scene we saw from The Silent Curse.
GREG You’re right.
JELENA (uneasy) You watched it?
GREG Not all of it.
CARMEN The projector cut out.
JELENA Like I said, I wouldn’t tempt fate.
GREG I mean, it’s only a movie, right?
Greg and Carmen are beginning to think she might have a point. They continue to sift through the documents.
NORTON (V.O.) Today I found new inspiration in the most unlikely of places...
INT. BEACHWOOD CANYON HOME - BEDROOM
Greg reads from the time-worn pages of Norton’s journal.
NORTON (V.O.) After my audition with Mr. DeMille went horribly wrong, I needed to clear my head.
Carmen sits up in bed next to him, surrounded by scattered documents from The Historical Society.
44.
NORTON (V.O.) As I wandered the streets of Hollywood, my eyes were drawn to a small bookstore on Highland Avenue.
INT. FATE & FORTUNE BOOKSTORE - (BLACK & WHITE)
An occult and esoteric bookstore on a busy street in Hollywood. Norton pushes open the door. A bell chimes. The store is lined with bookshelves, each crammed with ancient tomes and mysterious artifacts.
ELEONORA Can I help you find anything?
ELEONORA, a captivating woman with dark hair, emerges from behind a shelf. She smiles warmly at him.
NORTON I’m not sure what I’m looking for. I suppose I felt drawn here.
ELEONORA You have a curious spirit, I can tell.
MANLY P. HALL, the store owner, a tall man in his late thirties with an aura of wisdom and mystery, steps forward. His eyes sharp and thoughtful.
MANLY P. HALL Ah, a new seeker.
NORTON What do you recommend?
Eleonora picks up a book and hands it to Norton.
ELEONORA This one fascinates me.
MANLY P. HALL The Arcane Codex reveals ancient mysteries and forgotten knowledge. But one must be ready for it.
ELEONORA I feel he is.
Norton takes the book, intrigued.
NORTON Thank you.
45.
Manly P. Hall and Eleonora share a knowing smile.
INT. BEDROOM - LATER
Greg closes the journal. Carmen has put away her research materials and readies for bed.
CARMEN Find anything interesting?
GREG Norton wrote about his inspiration for The Silent Curse. It’s a book called The Arcane Codex.
CARMEN Sounds like something out of Indiana Jones.
GREG Let’s check for it in that hidden room. There were all kinds of old books in there.
CARMEN Okay, but remember what I said about rabbit holes.
GREG We’re pretty deep in one already.
He puts the journal on his nightstand. They turn off their lamp lights. The room fades to darkness, leaving the journal bathed in moonlight streaming through the window.
INT. CITY COUNCIL OFFICE - DAY
Carmen and Greg sit across from MR. FISKE, an affable councilman in his late-50s. He smiles warmly at them.
MR. FISKE I have to say, I admire your dedication to restoring The Silent Movie Theatre. It’s a vital part of our district’s history.
GREG We appreciate your support.
MR. FISKE What can I do to help?
46.
CARMEN Jelena has gathered a lot of historical records for us but she mentioned more archives you would need to sign off on.
GREG There might be some documents to help us piece everything together before the reopening.
MR. FISKE I can arrange access, but I’ll need to make sure everything’s handled properly.
CARMEN That would be amazing. Thank you.
MR. FISKE My pleasure.
CARMEN I just wanted to say, when I was a little girl I loved watching Everyone Outta Bed.
MR. FISKE Thank you. I have fond memories of making that show on the Warner Brothers lot.
He smiles at the memories, lost in thought.
CARMEN I hated how they replaced you with the mom’s goofy brother who came out of nowhere in the last seasons.
MR. FISKE Yes, dying of a heart attack and being written off the show during May sweeps week in Season 7 wasn’t a good feeling.
EXT. PARKING LOT - DAY
Carmen and Greg stand next to their car, a large box of archival materials sits on the truck.
47.
CARMEN (with a determined smile) We’re going to uncover every last secret about the theater.
Greg leans against the car, arms folded.
GREG Sure that’s a good idea anymore?
She looks at him funny.
CARMEN What do you mean?
GREG What if Norton got caught up in something?
Carmen considers the question.
CARMEN What kind of something?
GREG Something we don’t understand.
CARMEN Okay, yes, that hidden room was creepy but where is this coming from?
GREG The weird dream I had. I woke up in bed, but it was the 1920s. That woman from the photograph standing outside the premiere, who may or may not be my great-grandmother - she was in the room and thought I was Norton.
Carmen digests this.
CARMEN She probably just got into your subconscious from the photograph at the premiere.
GREG Or from watching her scene in The Silent Curse?
48.
CARMEN Maybe. Either way, waking up in bed to your maybe-great-grandma sounds weirdly Freudian.
Greg cracks a smile.
GREG Tell me about it.
Carmen puts the box of archives in the trunk and closes it.
CARMEN We should get back to the theater. Frank’s making good progress.
They get into the car and drive off.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - BASEMENT
The Inspector is back, now wearing a hard hat, examines the newly reinforced beams and supports. He jots down notes on his clipboard.
INSPECTOR The new supports look good. This will definitely hold.
GREG That’s a relief.
INSPECTOR This place may be an architectural masterpiece, but we have to be mindful of any hazards that it may present.
GREG Understood.
Off Greg, that sentiment is starting to feel all too real.
INT. HIDDEN ROOM - LATER
After The Inspector leaves, Greg unlocks the door and steps inside. His flashlight piercing the darkness.
He shines it on the shelves, revealing rows of ancient books. His eyes scan the spines, written in old calligraphy, until he lands on - The Arcane Codex.
49.
Greg removes the tome from the shelf, its cover warped by the elements. He opens it, carefully turning the musty pages. Flashes of text - forbidden knowledge, true enlightenment, incantations, and more - flicker in the dim light.
Suddenly, the door creaks, slowly closing behind him. He turns, his flashlight catching lingering shadows in the corner. Greg’s eyes adjust, making out what appears to be a FORM standing there, motionless, as if it’s watching him.
What Greg says next appears on his lips, but no sound follows. Text is superimposed on the screen with an elegant motif around the edges of frame, in the style of silent film -
INTERTITLE: “Who’s there?”
Greg tightens his grip on the flashlight, his heart pounding. Disturbed he’s unable to utter a sound. He shuts his eyes, as he’s transported to another time.
A WOMAN’S VOICE (PRE-LAP) Tell me Norton, what’s on your mind?
EXT. HOLLYWOOD ROOSEVELT HOTEL - POOLSIDE - (BLACK & WHITE)
WINIFRED, the redhead from Greg’s dream (and perhaps his great-grandmother), rubs suntan lotion on her arms, wearing a stylish swimsuit. She lounges by the pool on a comfy sunbed beside Norton, who’s in shades and trunks.
NORTON (sighs) Just ruminating about the new project I suppose.
WINIFRED The studio’s gonna make it. So, why ya sulking? This is a time to be celebrating.
She raises her colorful cocktail glass and takes a sip, caps it off with an exaggerated wink. Norton stares ahead at the shimmering pool water, reflecting the bright sun.
NORTON Ever since I started writing the script, I’ve had this most regretful feeling that it could be my last film. And that scares me.
50.
WINIFRED That’s a silly thing to say. You’re in such demand. I wish the casting directors loved me even a bit like they love you.
She reaches over, gently placing a hand on his arm. Norton now stares right at us, as if we’re across from the pool. Our presence seemingly bothering him.
INT. HIDDEN ROOM - AS BEFORE
Greg opens his eyes, frozen in place. The Form is no longer there. He exhales, the flashlight trembles in his hand.
INT. BASEMENT - SECONDS LATER
Greg shuts the door, takes the ornate key and locks it tight. He has a copy of The Arcane Codex in his hands.
FRANK (O.S.) Hey Greg.
Startled, Greg turns around.
GREG Frank! You scared me.
Frank is standing there. Gives him an odd look.
FRANK Sorry?
Greg pulls himself together.
GREG It’s fine.
FRANK Quick update, the auditorium is almost done and the restored seats are being installed now. We’re ahead on electrical work, and exterior restoration starts next week. At this pace, we’ll be ready for your grand reopening.
GREG Sounds great. Thanks, Frank.
Greg brushes past him, pats his shoulder.
51.
FRANK You got it.
Off Frank, that was strange.
INT. MANAGER'S OFFICE - LATER
Carmen is hunched over a pile of documents. Her eyes scan the faded pages. Greg enters, curious.
GREG Anything new?
Carmen looks up, excitement in her eyes.
CARMEN Yes, you won’t believe this. I was going through the materials we got from Mr. Fiske’s office. I found something incredible.
She hands him a set of documents. Greg takes them, brows furrowed.
GREG What is it?
CARMEN There’s evidence of Prohibition-era tunnels under the theater. Hidden passages used for smuggling booze back in the day.
Greg’s eyes widen as he looks over the documents.
GREG Would be cool to find them.
CARMEN Plus, imagine the draw for visitors once word gets out. We could do underground tours.
GREG Let’s not tell Boyd for now though.
CARMEN Agreed. We need to stay on track.
52.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM - LATE AFTERNOON
The auditorium bustles with activity. The remaining construction workers wrap up their work. Frank stands at the front by the movie screen.
FRANK Great job today everyone. We can call it a day. I know those of you who don’t have an ex-wife trying to bleed you dry like I do, want to go home to your families.
The workers start to gather their tools. The auditorium slowly empties.
WORKMAN (O.S.) Night, Frank.
The massive movie screen looms silently behind him. After a few moments, shadows disappear in the periphery. Suddenly, the lights go out. The room is plunged into darkness.
Above, the projector whirs to life, casting a bright beam of light on him. He raises his arm to shield his eyes from the burning light.
FRANK Whoa, it’s not showtime yet. Mind turning that thing off? I --
Frank’s voice fades away mid-sentence as the light focuses intensely on him. His lips move as he speaks but no sound comes out.
INTERTITLE: “What the hell?”
Frank’s arm starts to burn. Skin blisters under the intense heat. He puts his arms down, looking at them in horror.
The room shifts to sepia tone. The light becomes unbearably bright and hot.
FRANK (CONT’D) (silently mouthing words, looking panicked)
The red-hot light from the projector engulfs him, searing his flesh. He feels a burning pain, staring silently up at the light. Eyes wide with terror.
Soon, those same eyes begin to steam. Then melt away, leaving empty sockets.
53.
Frank’s face blisters and burns. The skin peels off, exposing raw flesh.
The searing light ravages him. Reduces his face to a charred, gruesome mask. His hair catches fire. Skin crackles and pops as it burns away.
Frank screams silently. His body convulses in agony. The light burns through him. His clothes disintegrating as his flesh chars.
His body collapses to the floor. A smoldering, unrecognizable heap. The bright beam of the projector finally cuts off. The auditorium goes dark.
EXT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - NIGHT
The lobby is eerily quiet.
INT. BEACHWOOD CANYON HOME - NIGHT
Detail shots of craft supplies: glue, little paintbrushes, small tools, and miniature pieces scattered across the dining room table.
Carmen carefully applies glue to a small piece. She attaches a miniature light fixture to the front of the model of The Silent Movie Theatre.
She plugs in a tiny LED light to illuminate the marquee. The light flickers. Then, a thin wisp of smoke begins to rise from the model.
CARMEN Damn it!
Carmen quickly unplugs the light. She fans smoke away with her hand. She sighs, examining the damage.
Greg lounges nearby in the living area, seated in a Hans Wegner Shell Chair, reading more of Norton’s journal. He looks up and over at her through the open-plan layout.
GREG Everything okay in there?
CARMEN Yeah, just a bit of a mishap with the model.
Greg sets the journal aside and stands up.
54.
GREG Gonna take a shower.
INT. BEACHWOOD CANYON HOME - HALLWAY
Greg heads to the bathroom, the contents of Norton’s journal lingering in his mind.
INT. BEACHWOOD CANYON HOME - BATHROOM
Greg steps into the modern, sleek shower. He turns on the water and stands under the showerhead. Lets the warm water cascade over him. He closes his eyes.
Greg’s mind drifts to a vision of a past memory, not his own. The screen transitions to black and white.
INT. HOLLYWOOD BUNGALOW - (BLACK & WHITE)
The date appears: 1926
Greg sees Norton at his desk, typing away a script on a typewriter for The Silent Curse. He drinks coffee, determined to finish. The Arcane Codex is open beside him.
WINIFRED All work and no play makes Norton a dull boy. Can’t we go out? I want to dance at The Coconut Grove.
Norton snaps.
NORTON I told you, I need to finish this script. I’ve got Zukor breathing down my neck!
Winifred is taken aback.
WINIFRED What did you find in that old book anyway? It’s making you crazy.
She goes over to take a peek at The Arcane Codex. He slaps her hand away and stands up.
NORTON Don’t touch it.
55.
WINIFRED You’re being nasty. I don’t like it.
NORTON I’m giving you a part in the damn movie! How’s that for nasty?! What more do you want from me?!
WINIFRED (chokes up) To be a gentleman like you used to be.
Winifred holds back tears. She storms out of the room. But Norton just goes back to working on his typewriter.
INT. BEACHWOOD CANYON HOME - BATHROOM - NIGHT
Greg’s eyes snap open, water still cascading over him. He takes a deep breath. Shaken by the vivid vision.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - MANAGER'S OFFICE
The office is cluttered with old files and newspapers. Carmen sits at the desk, sifting through yellowed documents.
She pulls out an old newspaper and her eyes widen as she reads the headline.
INSERT - NEWSPAPER ARTICLE
The article is dated 1927 and features a headline: “TRAGIC FIRE AT MOVIE THEATRE CLAIMS DOZENS OF LIVES DURING ‘THE SILENT CURSE’ PREMIERE.”
BACK TO SCENE
Carmen’s fingers trace the article, her expression one of shock and intrigue.
CARMEN (whispering to herself) Dozens of people... How did we not know about this?
She quickly snaps a photo of the article with her phone, planning to share it with Greg later.
56.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - BASEMENT
The Inspector uses electrical equipment to test the connections, carefully jotting down notes on his clipboard.
INSPECTOR I’ll be back.
Greg is nearby, checking some old cables. Carmen descends the stairs, holding her phone. She looks concerned.
CARMEN Greg, you need to see this.
Greg looks up. Carmen walks over and shows him the photo on her phone.
CARMEN (CONT’D) I found this in the archives Mr. Fiske gave us. There was a fire here years ago. Dozens of people died during the premiere of The Silent Curse.
The Inspector packs up his things.
INSPECTOR It was a tragedy for the city. Bodies were stacked in the back for days. They called it Death Alley for years after.
Carmen turns to Greg.
CARMEN Why didn’t we know about this?
GREG Some stories just get lost in time.
Still, the revelation disturbs them both.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - RESTROOMS
The Inspector runs the taps and checks the pipes. Water flows smoothly.
INSPECTOR Plumbing is all set. No leaks detected.
57.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY
Carmen now carefully restoring the intricate moldings on the walls, using fine brushes to apply gold leaf details. She steps back, inspecting her work.
GREG Have you heard from Frank?
Greg is on his knees by the entrance, meticulously aligning and laying down restored tiles to match the original design.
CARMEN No, I haven’t been able to get a hold of him.
GREG Did he just quit without any explanation?
CARMEN It feels that way.
GREG I talked to some of the guys. They said he’s been having a rough time with his divorce.
CARMEN Still, that’s unprofessional.
GREG I should tell Boyd.
CARMEN Maybe, he saw the hidden room and it freaked him out?
GREG Kind of freaked me out too. I went back in and found the book that inspired Norton.
CARMEN (interest piqued) I want to see it.
INT. HIDDEN ROOM - SOON AFTER
Greg reaches up to a high shelf, carefully pulls down The Arcane Codex.
58.
GREG Here it is. The Arcane Codex.
He gently places the book on a small table. Carmen runs her fingers lightly over the aged pages.
CARMEN I wonder why he became so obsessed with it?
Greg flips to a page. Symbols and diagrams surround the central image of a ritual circle.
GREG There’s mentions in here of ancient rituals and stuff like that.
Carmen reads from a passage:
CARMEN “In the time before time, when the stars aligned in darkness, there was a power not of this world.”
Greg runs his finger along text on the other page.
GREG Those who seek may find it in the shadows.
CARMEN It’s like a guide to summon some ancient entity?
She looks at Greg who doesn’t respond. A blank stare lingers on his face. Norton’s memories transport him back in time:
INT. FATE & FORTUNE BOOKSTORE - DAY (BLACK & WHITE)
Norton returns to the store. Eleonora is at the counter.
ELEONORA What troubles you, Norton?
NORTON I feel like I’m pushing away the ones I love most. That book, it unlocked so much for me and now I feel like I’m losing control...
ELEONORA You’re not alone.
59.
She places her hand on his. Manly P. Hall steps out from behind the rows of shelves.
MANLY P. HALL Maybe you just need to understand it better.
ELEONORA We can help with that.
MANLY P. HALL But you have to put your trust in us.
CLOSE ON his face. The hint of a smile.
INT. PRIVATE RESIDENCE - NIGHT (BLACK & WHITE)
A spacious, formal study in an elegant mansion. The walls are adorned with heavy tapestries and shelves filled with ancient tomes and artifacts.
A large mahogany table sits in the center, surrounded by high- back chairs.
Manly P. Hall stands at the head of the table by a fireplace. An aura of mystery about him. A small group of attendees, dressed in refined attire, are seated around the table.
Among them are Norton and Eleonora. He looks at her with a curious glance.
MANLY Welcome, distinguished guests. Tonight, we shall unlock the secrets of the ancients and explore the profound wisdom hidden within these sacred texts.
He opens a large book. Pages yellow with age. Begins to read. The room is silent. Norton leans in, captivated by Hall’s words as his surroundings seemingly shift. Eleonora listens intently. Her eyes reflecting the flickering firelight.
NORTON (whispers) It’s like peering into another world...
60.
INT. HOLLYWOOD BUNGALOW - BEDROOM - (BLACK & WHITE)
Norton removes his sport jacket. He climbs into bed with Winifred. She’s pretending to be asleep.
NORTON (quietly) I know you’re awake.
He cuddles up next to her.
NORTON (CONT’D) Will you forgive me?
She turns her head to face him.
WINIFRED Yes, meanie.
They lock eyes. He kisses her lips.
INT. HIDDEN ROOM - PRESENT
Greg snaps back to reality, the color returning to his face. He looks at Carmen, shaken.
CARMEN Are you okay, Greg?
GREG (slightly disoriented) I... I think so. But we have to be careful with this.
CARMEN Of course. Did you see something?
Greg takes a deep breath, trying to steady himself.
GREG It was like I was there... in the past. I saw Norton, he was attending some meeting. This man was reading from The Arcane Codex. It’s like there’s something dark and powerful in it.
Carmen’s eyes widen, suspending disbelief for a moment and sensing the gravity of his experience.
61.
CARMEN We’ll handle this together, Greg. But we need to understand what we’re dealing with.
GREG (nodding) This isn’t just about my great- grandfather anymore - this feels like something much bigger.
Together, they lean over the ancient book, ready to uncover its secrets, while bracing for any dangers it might unleash.
INT. AUDITORIUM - LATE DAY
Workers finish up the last of the structural repairs. Greg and Carmen stand side by side, assessing the progress.
GREG Do you think reopening is still a good idea?
CARMEN Maybe we’re just getting caught up in things. They’re only stories, right?
GREG I can’t explain it. It’s like I’m experiencing his memories.
CARMEN How is that even possible?
GREG You believe me though?
CARMEN Of course, I want to believe you.
GREG But you don’t.
CARMEN I want to understand. And I’m going to try my best to.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATER - ANOTHER DAY
Greg stands in the grand lobby, examining the ongoing restoration work. The entrance doors swing open.
62.
Mabel and Boyd walk in together, taking in the theater’s ongoing transformation.
MABEL Greg! This place is really coming along.
GREG Mabel, Boyd good to see you.
BOYD She couldn’t wait any longer. Needed a sneak preview.
Carmen heads in.
CARMEN Mabel, come on I’ll show you the auditorium.
Carmen and Mabel head off together, leaving Greg and Boyd behind.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - CORRIDOR - MOMENTS LATER
Greg walks with Boyd through the corridor. Mirrors glisten under the soft lighting.
BOYD We need to move faster.
GREG We’re under a lot of pressure already as it is.
BOYD There’s financial strains here.
GREG You’re going to make back your investment, I promise.
Boyd studies his face intently.
BOYD Can you handle this Greg?
Greg looks back, puzzled.
GREG What do you mean?
63.
BOYD You seem a little off, that’s all. Like it’s starting to get to you.
GREG It’s just been a lot. The project manager walked off the job.
BOYD Yeah, that was unexpected. But we’ve made due without him.
GREG We’re almost at the finish line. Let’s just stay the course.
BOYD I’m fine staying the course. But do you need to talk to someone? Mabel and I have a great therapist.
GREG No, I’m okay.
BOYD If you say so.
INT. AUDITORIUM
Mabel admires the spectacular restoration work.
MABEL It’s so beautiful, Carmen.
CARMEN I know. I’m just excited to share if with the world again.
MABEL I used to love going to the movies as a little girl. The bigger the screen, the better.
CARMEN When I see people watching movies on their phone, I want to say why don’t you just watch it on a matchbox?
MABEL Not me. Let’s get those butts back in the seats.
64.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY
Back with Greg and Boyd.
GREG We’re almost all clear with the inspections, so we can start rolling out with press about the reopening and putting together a guest list.
BOYD I’m already working on it, reaching out to some old contacts to get the whole town supporting this place again.
GREG The theatrical experience is still a big part of these companies’ bottom line.
BOYD Well, if you want to get me off the couch these days it better be something special and that’s what we’re giving them here. Something special.
GREG You’re preaching to the choir.
BOYD People in Hollywood are starting to return my calls again after word got out on this project. A lot of guys like me, who got canceled for a boob graze or an unwelcome hug, are slowly starting to work their way back into the industry. Compared to some others, those are pretty minor offenses.
GREG Okay, but try not to graze anyone’s boob at the reopening.
BOYD You have my word. And do we have some old silent films we can screen before we open the bar?
65.
GREG Yes, I actually found this old movie Midnight Serenade that was supposed to be a lost film.
BOYD Great, we’ll put it up.
Carmen and Mabel approach from another part of the theater, chatting animatedly.
MABEL The restoration work in the auditorium looks incredible, guys. We need to start publicizing this place. The buzz is going to be huge.
INT. PROJECTION BOOTH - LATER
The door slowly opens. Greg holds another reel for The Silent Curse, he tries to stay focused and not think about the strange occurrences gnawing at him. But an unsettling feeling comes over him.
Soon, his surroundings begin to fade, transitioning into a haunting sepia tone.
Greg, now seeing through his great-grandfather’s eyes, stands in the same booth, but it’s clean and bustling with activity.
THE PROJECTIONIST -- FINK smiles over at him as he loads a film reel.
FINK It’s going to be one heck of a night at the movies, Norton.
Greg turns, sees his great-grandfather’s reflection in the glass, looking anxious as he oversees the projection of a silent film. The label on the reel reads The Silent Curse.
INT. MANAGER’S OFFICE - SOON AFTER
Greg studies Norton’s old journal with encoded messages, trying his best to decode the text. He reviews pages of The Arcane Codex.
Cut to Carmen arrives with a tray of to-go coffees.
66.
CARMEN Thought we could use a little pick- me-up.
She hands Greg a cup and leans against the desk.
GREG Thanks.
CARMEN What did you find?
GREG It seems like instructions for some sort of ritual.
CARMEN So maybe Norton just found it and used it for part of the plot of his movie.
GREG Maybe that was the original purpose, and then it evolved into something else. Norton wrote about how the set of The Silent Curse had been plagued by a series of odd occurrences.
CUT TO:
MONTAGE - DURING THE MAKING OF “THE SILENT CURSE”
INT. SOUND STAGE - DAY - (BLACK & WHITE)
- A light fixture suddenly falls from a rig. Narrowly misses a CAMERA OPERATOR.
- A set piece collapses unexpectedly, causing a domino effect and knocking over several other pieces. Workers scramble to get out of the way.
INT. FILM SET - MAKEUP ROOM - (BLACK & WHITE)
- A MAKEUP ARTIST breaks out in hives. Her skin reddens. Swells rapidly. She stumbles out of the room, scratching her skin.
- An ACTOR sits in the makeup chair. Suddenly starts bleeding from the nose. The Makeup Artist backs away in horror as the bleeding intensifies without any apparent cause.
67.
- Mirrors in the dressing rooms crack simultaneously. Shards of glass fall to the floor. Actors and crew stare in shock.
INT. FILM SET - COSTUME DEPARTMENT - (BLACK & WHITE)
Costumes hanging on racks suddenly catch fire, flames spreading rapidly. Crew members rush to extinguish the fire.
INT. FILM SET - PROPS DEPARTMENT - (BLACK & WHITE)
A chair slides across the floor, startling nearby crew members. They exchange nervous glances.
EXT. FILM SET - OUTDOOR SHOOT - (BLACK & WHITE)
An ACTOR suddenly collapses on set. He writes in pain and clutches his stomach. The crew rushes to help.
INT. FILM SET - DIRECTOR’S OFFICE - (BLACK & WHITE)
Norton speaks urgently into the phone. He gives Winifred nearby a worried glance.
END MONTAGE
INT. MANAGER'S OFFICE - AS BEFORE
Carmen sips her coffee, growing more concerned about Greg. He continues reading through The Arcane Codex.
CARMEN (flipping through the pages) Either way, these rituals... they’re real. No wonder so many strange things have happened here after they screened The Silent Curse.
Carmen glances at a stack of documents labeled Mr. Fiske’s Archives.
CARMEN (CONT’D) Wait a minute... look at this.
She pulls out an old blueprint from the stack and spreads it out on the desk.
68.
GREG What is it?
CARMEN It’s another one of the original blueprints from the theater. I didn’t see it before.
She points to a section of the basement on the blueprint.
CARMEN (CONT’D) This shows a trapdoor hidden under the flooring in the basement. It’s not on any of the modern plans.
Greg leans in, intrigued.
GREG Do you think it’s still there?
CARMEN Only one way to find out.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATER - BASEMENT - NIGHT
Filled with old equipment and forgotten relics from the theater’s heyday. Greg and Carmen make their way through the clutter with their flashlights.
Greg leads Carmen to a corner of the basement. A heavy work bench stands against the wall.
He moves the workbench aside, revealing a trapdoor hidden beneath a layer of dirt and debris.
GREG You think it leads to the old bootlegger’s tunnels?
CARMEN This has to be it.
Carmen looks intrigued as Greg pulls open the trapdoor, revealing a set of stone steps descending into darkness.
GREG It’s been hidden all this time.
INT. BOOTLEGGER’S TUNNELS - NIGHT
Greg and Carmen descend the steps and find themselves in a narrow, musty tunnel. The walls are lined with old bricks.
69.
CARMEN These tunnels must connect to various points in the city.
She runs her fingers along the walls. Greg shines his flashlight on the ground, revealing footprints in the dust. He feels an eerie presence.
GREG Or someone might have still been getting in here.
CARMEN Like maybe it was used for smuggling liquor into the theater at first then became something more.
Greg thinks.
GREG We might not be the only ones who’ve been down here recently.
CARMEN We should go.
A chill runs down her spine. As they turn to leave, the sense of being watched lingers in the air.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM
Carmen and Greg stand in the center of the darkened auditorium, holding a bundle of dried sage and a lighter.
CARMEN I think we need to cleanse this place before we continue.
GREG I’ll try anything once.
Carmen lights the end of the sage bundle, letting it burn for a few seconds. She blows out the flame. Lets it smolder.
Greg follows Carmen moving slowly through the auditorium, gently waving the sage bundle to disperse the smoke.
Greg stays behind her, catching any ashes in a fireproof container.
70.
CARMEN We’re focusing on removing any negative energy from this place and inviting protection.
GREG Let’s hope it helps.
But Greg remains doubtful.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - HALLWAY - LATER
The Inspector has returned, testing the fire alarms and sprinkler system, nodding in approval.
INSPECTOR Fire safety measures in place. Everything’s up to code.
GREG That’s great to hear.
Greg and Carmen follow him through the lobby.
INSPECTOR After everything’s checked off on the list, the theater should be ready for reopening.
CARMEN Perfect.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM - SOON AFTER
The Inspector, now alone, does one last look over the darkened empty auditorium. He walks down the aisle. Footsteps echoing in the silence. He stops and turns to leave.
Just as he reaches the exit, the projector suddenly turns on, casting a beam of light onto the screen. The Inspector turns back, squinting at the bright light.
The scene is now overlaid with sepia tones.
On the screen, a symbol appears - a strange, intricate design resembling an ancient rune. Jagged lines and a spiral at its center. Glows ominously in red.
The Inspector can’t look away. His eyes widen as he stares at the symbol. His expression shifts, becoming distant and vacant. As if he’s in a trance.
71.
He stands there, motionless. Completely absorbed in the symbol. The eerie red glow reflects in his eyes. The symbol seemingly imprinting itself into his mind.
EXT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - NIGHT
The Inspector exits the theater, his demeanor noticeably altered. He walks with a strange, unsettling calm.
INT. INSPECTOR’S CAR - NIGHT
The Inspector drives down Fairfax Avenue. His eyes vacant and expressionless. The city lights blur past.
His hands grip the steering wheel tightly. The red glow of the symbol still flickers in his eyes.
As he drives, the traffic light ahead turns red, but he doesn’t slow down. A car horn blares as he narrowly avoids a collision. He calmly continues down the road.
EXT. FAIRFAX AVENUE - NIGHT
The car moves steadily up Fairfax, blending into the night.
EXT. HOLLYWOOD HILLS - NIGHT
The car winds through the darkened, twisting roads of the Hollywood Hills. The Inspector’s car finally pulls over to the side of a secluded road.
He gets out of the car, moving to the trunk. He opens it and removes a tank of gasoline.
EXT. HOLLYWOOD HILLS - ROADSIDE - NIGHT
The Inspector’s eyes once again reflect an unsettling red glow. He begins walking towards a nearby wooded area, carrying the tank of gasoline in his hands.
EXT. HOLLYWOOD HILLS - HOLLYWOOD SIGN - NIGHT
The giant iconic letters loom ominously against the starless night sky.
72.
EXT. HOLLYWOOD SIGN - NIGHT
The Inspector approaches the base of the towering letters. He stands directly under the giant “H”, he lifts the gasoline tank above his head, staring up at the moon.
His lips move but no sound is revealed. Silence.
INTERTITLE: “For the ancient power...”
He pours the gasoline all over himself. The liquid soaks his clothes, dripping onto the ground.
He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a matchbook from Musso & Frank Grill. He strikes a match. The small flame flickering in the wind.
Without hesitation, he drops the match onto himself. The flames engulf him instantly, roaring to life as they consume his body.
He stands motionless, arms outstretched as the fire blazes - lighting up the night.
His figure gradually collapses as the fire continues to burn. The Hollywood Sign standing tall and silent above the inferno.
INT. BEACHWOOD CANYON HOME - NIGHT
Art books sit on the coffee table in the living area. Greg takes a sip of whiskey, gazing out at the cityscape.
Carmen steps into the room, sensing the toll their research into the theater’s past is taking on him.
CARMEN We can tell Boyd we don’t want to do it anymore if you want. We can just end this now.
GREG The renovations are practically done at this point.
CARMEN I realize that, but the experiences you’re having...
GREG You believe me now?
He stares into his glass of whiskey.
73.
CARMEN I never said I didn’t.
GREG (sighing) Sometimes it feels like Hollywood’s just one big game of musical chairs. Everyone scrambling for a spot, and when the music stops, someone’s left standing.
CARMEN I’ve always thought it’s more than just a children’s game. It’s like adults were preparing us for the real world. Not everyone’s going to make it.
GREG Yet we keep playing the game. But I’m not going to quit the project just because we found some weird occult books in the basement.
CARMEN And a hidden room.
GREG Still.
CARMEN Okay, but I want to consult with this woman Mabel follows on Instagram. She’s a spiritualist on the Eastside.
GREG I thought the sage burning was supposed to do the trick.
CARMEN Just an added extra precaution. I know it’s an out-there idea, but what other choice do we have? No one’s going to believe us.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY - NEXT DAY
Greg and Carmen wait near the entrance. The doors swing open, and BARB strides in, exuding a vibrant bohemian style and an aura of mysticism. Her eyes sparkle with a knowing confidence.
74.
BARB (sensing the atmosphere) I have to say, there’s a very sinister energy festering here.
Greg and Carmen exchange glances as Barb approaches them.
BARB (CONT’D) (smiling warmly) Hello, I’m Barb. I heard you’re having some problems here?
CARMEN (nodding) Yes, we’ve been experiencing some... unusual things.
GREG We’re hoping you can help us make sense of it all.
BARB Let’s take a look around, and you can tell me more about what’s been happening.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
The trio walks through the hallway. Barb’s eyes scan the surroundings, taking in every detail.
CARMEN (explaining) Greg’s been having these... experiences. It’s like he’s tapping into memories from the past, seeing things that happened long ago.
Barb listens.
BARB Retrocognition - memories or impressions from the past. It’s not uncommon in places with a dark history.
This strikes Greg. They reach the entrance to the auditorium. Barb pauses. She closes her eyes for a moment. Senses the energy. The room grows cold.
75.
BARB (CONT’D) I do feel a lingering presence here. Something that’s been festering for years.
GREG What do you think it is?
BARB (determined) Let’s keep moving. I need to see more.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM - CONTINUOUS
They enter the auditorium, the vast space filled with the eerie glow of their flashlights. Barb walks down the aisle, her eyes focused on the screen.
BARB I used to dance with Prince in the 80s. And if there’s one thing I learned from those days, it’s how to read the energy in a room. This place... it’s got a lot of stories to tell, and not all of them are pleasant.
She stops and looks back at Greg and Carmen.
BARB (CONT’D) Let’s try something. I want to see if we can connect with whatever is lingering here.
Barb takes out a crystal pendulum from her bag. She holds it up, letting it dangle and sway gently. Closing her eyes, she begins to murmur an incantation.
BARB (CONT’D) (chanting) Spirits of this place, reveal your secrets to us. Show us what we need to see.
The pendulum swings in a wide arc, creating a mesmerizing pattern in the air. Greg suddenly feels dizzy, the room around him fading.
76.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - NIGHT (1927)
Greg is transported to the night of the premiere of The Silent Curse. The theater is filled with elegantly dressed patrons. The film plays on the screen, flickering shadows across their faces.
Suddenly, chaos erupts as a fire breaks out.
GREG (V.O.) (terrified) What’s happening?
Greg witnesses the Projectionist - Fink, frantically trying to control the flames in the projection booth. The fire spreads quickly.
Fink is engulfed in the flames. His screams pierce the air.
NORTON (O.S.) No!
Greg turns to see Norton desperately trying to reach his girlfriend, Winifred, who is trapped by the fire.
WINIFRED Norton, help me!
Norton coughs violently, inhaling thick smoke. He shouts for her, but the smoke fills his lungs - choking him.
NORTON (coughing and shouting) Winifred!
A beam collapses, striking Norton in the throat. He falls, clutching his neck. Unable to speak. Winifred’s cries fade as the flames consume her.
NORTON (CONT’D) (silent scream) Winifred!
The scene fades as Greg is pulled back to the present.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM - PRESENT
Greg snaps back to reality, gasping for air. He looks at Barb and Carmen. His face pale. Eyes wide with horror.
CARMEN Greg! Are you okay?
77.
BARB (softly) What did you see?
GREG (voice trembling) I saw the fire... the Projectionist... Winifred... Norton lost his voice trying to save her.
Carmen holds her hand. Her concern deepening.
CARMEN We need to understand what happened here to move forward.
BARB We will.
Greg looks around the theater, still shaken. The weight of the past heavy on his shoulders.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY - MOMENTS LATER
Barb points to a small, intricate carving hidden in the ornate trim of a column.
BARB Do you see this? This isn’t just decoration. It’s a symbol.
Greg and Carmen lean in to look at the carving - a complex pattern that almost seems to move under their gaze.
CARMEN What does it mean?
BARB It’s a seal. These symbols are often used as protective wards or triggers for otherworldly events. Whoever built this theater knew what they were doing.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Barb continues to point out carvings and symbols hidden in the woodwork and on the walls.
BARB Here and here... these are all part of a larger pattern. (MORE)
78.
BARB (CONT’D) They form a network of energy throughout the building.
GREG Why would someone put this here?
BARB To control the energy in the space. To open doorways or to keep things contained. These symbols have power.
EXT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - BASEMENT - LATER
They descend into the basement. Barb stops in front of a large, engraved stone in the wall. She runs her finger over the intricate design.
BARB This one is particularly strong. It’s a focal point, a conduit.
CARMEN A conduit for what?
BARB For whatever forces are at play here. This theater was designed to channel and control those forces. But something went wrong. The fire... it wasn’t just an accident.
GREG So, these symbols are like a map?
BARB Exactly. A map and a set of keys. We need to understand how to read them and what they unlock.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - HIDDEN ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Greg and Carmen unlock the hidden room where The Arcane Codex was found. Barb follows them inside.
She points to a symbol on the wall that matches the one they’ve seen throughout the theater.
BARB This symbol... it’s the key.
Greg stares at the symbol. A flash of recognition hits him.
79.
GREG Wait a second... I’ve seen this before.
CARMEN Where?
GREG In the movie... The Silent Curse. I told you how a symbol flashed on the screen while we were watching it.
Carmen looks shocked, realizing the connection.
CARMEN Are you sure?
GREG Positive.
BARB If the symbol is part of a larger spell, its presence in the movie could’ve triggered something.
GREG So, the movie itself is part of this... map?
BARB Whoever made that movie could’ve been trying to activate something, or perhaps release it.
GREG Then we need to go through the movie frame by frame.
BARB Not a bad idea.
GREG But now I realize Winifred wasn’t my great-grandmother after all if she perished in that fire. My grandfather hadn’t been born yet.
CARMEN Then who was?
GREG That’s what I need to know.
80.
INT. PROJECTION BOOTH - DAT
The booth is filled with the hum of old equipment. The Silent Curse reel is set up on the projector. Greg and Carmen sit closely together, studying the film frame by frame.
CARMEN (pausing the reel) There! Do you see it?
GREG (leaning in) Yeah, that’s the symbol.
They continue to advance the reel frame by frame, taking detailed notes.
CARMEN It’s like it’s woven into the fabric of the film itself.
GREG Do you think Norton would’ve embedded these symbols to trigger something?
Just then, Boyd pops his head into the room. A broad smile on his face.
BOYD Hey, you two. How’s it going?
Carmen quickly stops the projector, turning to Boyd.
CARMEN We’re just... reviewing some things.
BOYD (laughing) A little pre-opening jitters, huh? Speaking of which, I wanted to talk to you about the grand reopening. The guest list is finalized, and we’re going to have a new tequila brand sponsor for open bar. It’s going to be spectacular.
Greg nods, trying to keep his focus on the conversation.
GREG That sounds great, Boyd. Thanks for handling all of that.
81.
Boyd’s eyes subtly dart to the film reel labeled The Silent Curse. He makes a mental note, his smile never faltering.
BOYD No problem at all. Just wanted to make sure everything is set. We’re going to have a full house.
As Boyd turns to leave, he takes one last look at the reel. The idea of screening it at the grand opening firmly planted in his mind. He waves casually as he exits.
BOYD (CONT’D) See you later.
Greg snaps a look back at Carmen.
GREG There’s no way Norton would’ve imbedded these symbols into the reel and endangered Winifred.
CARMEN Then who was it?
GREG Something else must have happened. All the weird occurrences on set, what if someone was purposely sabotaging the production?
Carmen’s mind is drifting.
CARMEN Who was the original owner of this place?
GREG I never saw that in any of the documents. Maybe Jelena might know?
JELENA (PRE-LAP) I’m so glad you reached out.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY - NEXT DAY
Jelena follows Greg and Carmen into the Manager’s Office. She carries a hand-bound leather folio in her arms.
82.
GREG It was weird, we looked at all the documents and couldn’t find anything on the original theater owner who built this place.
CARMEN I mean there has to be some record of it right?
GREG Norton had to have bought it from someone.
INT. MANAGER'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
The trio goes inside. Jelena places the folio down on the desk and removes several yellowed documents.
JELENA That’s the thing. When I got your email, I did some more reconnaissance work. It turned out we had the story wrong. Norton never actually owned this theater. But his wife did. She inherited it from her father.
Greg and Carmen exchange a puzzled look. Jelena regards the pages on the desk.
INT. FATE & FORTUNE BOOKSTORE - (BLACK & WHITE)
Eleonora stands behind the counter, organizing a stack of books. Norton enters, a determined look in his eyes.
NORTON Eleonora, I need to talk to you.
She looks up. A warm smile on her face.
ELEONORA Norton, it’s good to see you. What brings you here?
NORTON I’ve been working on my follow-up to Midnight Serenade. It’s called The Silent Curse. I want to use a passage from The Arcane Codex about summoning a Duke of Hell as my inspiration.
83.
Eleonora’s smile fades slightly, replaced by concern.
ELEONORA That sounds... ambitious. But you must be careful Norton. Those texts are not just stories.
NORTON I know. That’s why I need your help. I want you to be a consultant on the film.
Eleonora considers this for a moment, then nods.
ELEONORA If you promise you’ll be cautious.
NORTON I promise.
ELEONORA Just remember, some doors once opened cannot be closed.
INT. SOUND STAGE - (BLACK & WHITE)
Set pieces are arranged to create an eerie forest for The Silent Curse. Crew members adjust lights and equipment.
Norton stands in the center, his intense focus on the scene before him.
Eleonora is quietly off to the side, observing with a critical eye. Winifred, in full costume, watches from a distance. Her expression a mix of irritation and jealousy.
INT. MUSSO & FRANK GRILL - (BLACK & WHITE)
Waiters in crisp uniforms weave through tables. Norton and Eleonora sit at a corner table
ELEONORA I wanted to talk to you about the premiere of The Silent Curse.
Norton leans in, intrigued.
NORTON I’m listening.
84.
ELEONORA My father, Victor Thorne, owns The Silent Movie Theatre. I think it would be the perfect place to screen the film.
She takes a sip of her wine.
NORTON But it might hurt Winifred. She thinks I have feelings for you.
ELEONORA Do you have feelings for me Norton?
NORTON I care about you deeply but I still love her.
ELEONORA I understand, Norton. But sometimes, the heart has a way of guiding us in unexpected directions.
A subtle smile plays on her lips.
INT. MANAGER'S OFFICE - AS BEFORE
Jelena thumbs through the last pages in her folio and produces a marriage certificate.
JELENA A year after the fire at the premiere. Norton Rous married Eleonora Throne.
CARMEN She’s your great-grandmother, Greg.
He can’t believe what he’s hearing.
GREG We never knew her name.
JELENA Her father was very connected in the esoteric circles that were cropping up around town.
CARMEN So, he designed this place?
85.
JELENA I believe so.
GREG That explains a lot.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY - SOON AFTER
Greg and Carmen walk Jelena out.
CARMEN Well, you’ve been a big help with everything, Jelena. We hope to see you at the reopening.
JELENA I wouldn’t miss it for the world. I believe in the transformative power of cinema. And this place is going to be a bold statement, to tell people, “come on now, it’s time to go back to the movies.”
She smirks a little.
GREG That’s the plan.
He gives her a smile, but now questioning if that plan is a good idea after all.
INT. STAIRWELL - LATE DAY
Greg locks up the projection booth for the night. He heads down the stairs.
Greg is pushed by an unseen force. CLUNK. CLUNK. CLUNK. He tumbles down the stairs and gets knocked out unconscious.
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - (BLACK & WHITE)
Eleonora visits Norton who lies in bed. Bandages cover his throat as he’s no longer able to speak.
ELEONORA I was worried about you. I’m so glad you’re okay.
He grimaces. Silently mouths a responds, despite the pain.
INTERTITLE: “I’m not okay.”
86.
ELEONORA (CONT’D) We can get through this together.
She goes and sits at the edge of his bed.
ELEONORA (CONT’D) Many P. Hall and his classes only scratched the surface. I could expose you to so much more. You won’t need Hollywood anymore. All I ask is that you trust me.
She takes his hand comfortingly.
ELEONORA (CONT’D) Kiss tomorrow goodbye. All we have is now.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM - (BLACK & WHITE)
The theater has since been repaired after the fire. Eleonora leads Norton inside. He looks around nervously.
In several rows of seats towards the front stand ROBED FIGURES who await them.
ELEONORA This place has become a refuge for so many. The actress who could never catch her break. The screenwriter who always got a pass. The movie extra forced to fade away into the background.
From under their robes, we catch glimpses of their faces.
ELEONORA (CONT’D) They were told they weren’t good enough. But here they are enough. Because Agares watches over us. He is the true “Gatekeeper.”
Norton seems intrigued.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - STAIRWELL - MOMENTS LATER
BACK TO GREG - he opens his eyes. He blinks, then staggers to his feet, turns around but no one’s there.
87.
INT. BEACHWOOD CANYON HOME - DAY
Greg reads the last of Norton’s journals.
INT. HOLLYWOOD BUNGALOW - BATHROOM - (BLACK & WHITE)
Norton’s hands covered in chemicals. Hollow-eyed and shaky, he works frantically. Silent film reels soak in the bathtub, surrounded by various cleaning agents.
Norton pauses, gripping the edge of the sink for support. He coughs violently, splattering blood onto the porcelain.
NORTON (V.O.) I wanted to save them, I tried to save them all.
He gazes at the film reels, eyes filled with despair. Another fit of coughing wracks his body, and he collapses to his knees, clutching his chest.
In the other room, a baby cries from a bassinet. Norton struggles to get up, eyes flickering toward the door. His strength fades and he slumps to the floor. The cries of the baby echo through the house.
INT. BEACHWOOD CANYON HOME - BEDROOM - NEXT NIGHT
Greg stands in front of a full-length mirror. He smoothes his hair. Carmen wears a vintage red dress.
GREG Norton was desperate to regain his former glory. He never got the recognition he deserved. The world moved on without him.
CARMEN Boyd’s going to screen Midnight Serenade for the guests. A new generation will get to learn about him now.
GREG Yeah, this will be his night.
CARMEN But it’s our night too.
GREG I just want everything to go off without a hitch.
88.
CARMEN Will make sure it does.
Still, Greg’s clearly unnerved.
EXT. SILENT MOVIE THEATER - TWILIGHT
High angle Greg turns on the marquee. He lifts his eyes up at the red glowing letters.
EXT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - NIGHT
The entrance is lit up. Crowds gather outside on the sidewalk for the red carpet event. Photographers flash their cameras.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - NIGHT
The theater is now fully restored to its classic splendor.
INT. CONCESSION STAND - NIGHT
Bags of popcorn, candy stock, sodas are arranged neatly for guests. Freshly popped popcorn oozes with real butter.
Carmen’s miniature of The Silent Movie Theatre is prominently displayed. Greg peels off his coat, draping it over a nearby chair, and helps Carmen out of hers.
Boyd steps forward with a bottle of champagne. Mabel stands beside him, holding glasses. Ready to celebrate.
BOYD This is a big moment for us.
He pops the cork. The champagne bubbles over as he pours it into four glasses and hands them out.
BOYD (CONT’D) To the grand reopening of the Silent Movie Theatre. Here’s to new beginnings and unforgettable nights at the movies.
They clink glasses.
MABEL I’m going to go find our seats before the masses arrive. I hate crowds.
89.
Greg looks to Carmen.
GREG We’ll go meet and greet everyone, I guess.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM - SOON AFTER
Mabel steps into the darkened auditorium to find her reserved seat towards the front. She walks towards the screen, her footsteps echoing softly.
Suddenly, the projector whirs to life. Casts a beam of light onto the screen. Mabel looks up startled. The same symbol that the Inspector and Greg saw appears on the screen, glowing ominously red.
MABEL (frowning) What the...
She moves closer to the stage. Her attention drawn to the eerie symbol. Without warning, the heavy stage curtains begin to move. The fabric undulating as if alive.
The curtains reach out, wrapping around her. They pull her close. Mabel struggles, her hands clawing at the fabric. But the curtains tighten their grip, suffocating her.
As she fights, the edges of the bright-red curtains become razor-sharp - slicing into her flesh. Blood seeps through the fabric, staining it a deeper red.
Mabel’s screams are muffled as the curtains envelop her completely, forming a tight cocoon around her body.
The struggle intensifies. But soon Mabel’s movements become weaker. The curtains constrict further. The sharp edges continue cutting into her until she goes limp. The cocoon pulses once, twice, then becomes still.
The symbol on the screen flickers and fades. The projector turns off abruptly.
The auditorium falls silent once more. No trace of Mabel. Her body remains hidden inside the curtain cocoon.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY
The doors have opened. The bar is packed with people. Greg and Carmen squeeze through the crowd.
90.
They say hello to different guests, including members of The Historical Society like Jelena, Mr. Fiske, Shelby, and Doreen. Air kisses to their industry friends.
INT. AUDITORIUM - NIGHT
The theater is packed for the screening of The Silent Curse. Boyd stands before the audience as Greg and Carmen watch anxiously from the side. He locks eyes with them.
BOYD (quietly) Have either of you seen Mabel?
Greg shakes his head.
GREG No, not since the toast.
The admission unsettles Boyd but he glances towards the crowd anyway and turns on his mic. A big smile on his face.
BOYD It feels like a massive privilege to be with all of you here tonight.
Everyone claps. Greg turns to Carmen.
GREG (clandestine) We need to be ready for anything tonight.
She nods.
CARMEN We will be.
BOYD Before the reception and silent auction for The Film Restoration Fund, we’ll be screening a double bill of two once-thought-to-be “lost films” from the oeuvre of silent film star and later writer- director, Norton Rous.
The disclosure of screening two lost films catches Greg and Carmen off guard. But then they see Barb hurry into the auditorium. She stealthily signals them.
As Midnight Serenade begins to play on the big screen, Greg and Carmen quickly vacate their seats to confer with Barb.
91.
Their early exits catch Boyd off guard but he knows the show must go on, with or without them.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY
Barb stands with Greg and Carmen, the ornate lobby is now empty as the double feature unfolds in the auditorium.
GREG Barb, what’s going on?
BARB I’ve been doing some research on my own about this place. I’m all but certain the theater was built for the very purpose of blending cinema and supernatural forces.
CARMEN That was Eleonora’s father’s plan all along?
BARB Yes. I found this letter in the archives you had me look over. You must have missed it.
Barb hands an old letter to Greg. As he reads it...
INT. VICTORIAN HOUSE - ANGELINO HEIGHTS
Eleonora holds a baby, writes a letter by candlelight. She looks out the window, tears streaming down her face.
ELEONORA (V.O.) My dearest Norton, I regret that I must leave you and our newborn son. Staying here would only put you in danger. I cannot continue my father’s legacy at the theater any longer. I refuse...
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY
Greg finishes reading the letter.
GREG She knew they unleashed something in this theater and couldn’t turn back time. Boyd said he’s going to screen The Silent Curse.
92.
Carmen’s face pales.
CARMEN We can’t let him.
BARB (determined) Then let’s shut it down.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - BASEMENT
Barb leads Greg and Carmen down the creaky stairs into the dimly lit basement.
BARB The theater was built on a site with a long history of strange occurrences. A place where the veils between worlds could be thinner than most.
She catches sight of the rusty furnace.
Suddenly, they are plunged back into Norton’s memories on the night he took his life.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - BASEMENT - (BLACK & WHITE)
A sickly-looking Norton stands before the hulking furnace, its doors swung open. A faint whisper echoes in the dark.
VOICE You can cement your legacy this way, Norton...
Norton’s face contorts with anguish. The glow from the furnace bathes the room in an ominous light. He steps into the furnace. The flames licking at his body.
The fire engulfs him, his mouth open in a silent scream as he’s consumed by the inferno.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - BASEMENT - PRESENT
Greg snaps out of it, blinking rapidly. Knuckles white. He rushes over to the power station and yanks the plug, determined to stop the screening of The Silent Curse.
93.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM
Right as The Silent Curse opening titles come up on screen, the projector jams. The room is plunged into darkness. The audience erupts in boos.
Boyd is annoyed, but does his best to manage the situation.
BOYD Please, join us for an unexpected intermission with refreshments in the courtyard.
Everyone files out. He looks around for Greg and dials him up on his phone, frustrated.
Once everyone is gone, he starts freaking out - almost as if we’re watching a child having a temper tantrum.
INTERCUT WITH: Greg sees BOYD pop up on his phone screening and ignores his call.
GREG’S VOICEMAIL Hi, this is Greg. I missed your call. But leave me a message, I’d love to hear from you. A text works too.
BEEP!
BOYD (shouts) Greg, where are you?! This night is going to fall apart! You not being here when I need you is COMPLETELY DEBILITATING!!! It’s SO DEBILITATING, Greg!!!
His face scrunches up like a big baby. He flaps his arms.
EXT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - COURTYARD/RECEPTION AREA
Suddenly, the fire alarm sounds. GUESTS gather in the renovated courtyard. It’s a small outdoor area at the side of the theater’s entrance. An elaborate fountain gurgles in the center by an OPEN BAR serving single estate tequila.
Despite the alarm going off, the guests don’t seem to mind and just enjoy the drinks & refreshments, snap photos, chatting and laughing together as if nothing is amiss.
94.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - STAIRS
Boyd climbs the stairs. Emergency lights flicker. He reaches the top and moves towards the balcony area with the projection booth in his sights.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - BALCONY - NIGHT
Boyd navigates the narrow balcony, using his phone’s flashlight to guide his way. He glances down into the empty auditorium below.
The projector whirs back to life. Boyd freezes as the symbol flashes on screen - glowing an ominous red. He moves his mouth to speak but no words come out.
INTERTITLE: “What the hell?”
Disoriented by the sudden light, Boyd loses his balance. He stumbles backward, trying to regain his footing.
But it’s too late. He topples over the edge of the balcony, mouth open with a silent scream.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM
Boyd plummets from the balcony, hitting the seats below with a sickening thug. His body lies twisted among the rows of seats. His limbs at unnatural angles.
The symbol on the screen flickers, before the projector shuts off once more. The auditorium is plunged back into darkness.
EXT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - COURTYARD/RECEPTION AREA
A SERVER rolls out a cake creation that looks like a replica of The Silent Movie Theatre. Everyone gathers around it to ooh and ahh - snapping pictures of it for their Instagram.
But the Server suddenly looks awkward, realizing the knife to cut it has gone missing.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY
Greg, Carmen, and Barb come up from the basement. Carmen looks aghast as she realizes her The Silent Movie Theatre miniature is on fire.
95.
CARMEN (heartbroken) My miniature...
Greg grabs a fire extinguisher encased in glass against the wall, breaks the glass, and puts the fire out.
GREG How did that happen?
BARB You guys, look at this...
Barb indicates towards the entrance doors, the handles now wrapped in locked chains.
CARMEN (shocked) Someone chained the doors.
JELENA (O.S.) And that someone was me...
Jelena steps into the lobby behind them. She grins.
CLOSE UP: Jelena puts a finger to her lips.
INTERTITLE: Shh... Silence is golden.
ANGLE ON: A sharp, glistening cake knife trembles in her hand. Greg and Carmen stand stunned.
Jelena turns and looks directly at the camera, breaking the fourth wall.
JELENA (CONT’D) (to the audience) It’s about to get interesting, folks. Keep watching.
Barb’s eyes drift to Greg and Carmen, trying to stay calm.
BARB (quietly) Who is this?
JELENA You would know bitch if my dreams hadn’t been destroyed by this godforsaken town.
Carmen swallows.
96.
CARMEN Jelena, what are you doing?
JELENA I was trying to help you. Half the gatekeepers in Hollywood were in that auditorium when Boyd was about to play The Silent Curse - we could’ve barbecued them all.
Greg looks at her perplexed.
GREG Why would you think that we wanted to barbecue them?
On Jelena, isn’t it obvious?
JELENA Because of what they’ve done to you! Look at you Carmen, you’re gorgeous! You should be starring on A Netflix Original Series. And you, Greg, with that matinee idol chiseled jawline and those three- picture deal high cheekbones you have. This town needs to wake up and take notice when they see movie stars right in front of their faces!
Carmen stays calm, trying to deescalate the situation.
CARMEN You need help Jelena. We all have bad days, but we’ll talk through this and you can heal.
BARB You can put the knife down, sweetie. We got you.
Jelena ignores them, bites her lower lip.
JELENA Bad days?! You don’t know the half of it. Seems like only yesterday I had just graduated Juilliard top of my class when I moved out to LA. I could’ve had a career like Jessica Chastain. But let’s just say, I had some delays! (then) (MORE)
97.
JELENA (CONT’D) Now I’m going to continue to hold this knife on you and you’ll proceed into the auditorium, because intermission is now over.
Greg, Carmen, and Barb reluctantly nod their heads, doing as they’re told.
As “Lucky” - (Weathers cover) seeps in (look it up on Spotify) and continues under:
EXT. HYDE NIGHTCLUB - SUNSET BOULEVARD - NIGHT
A YOUNGER JELENA stands nervously in a crowded line. She wears a bright mini-skirt, neon tube top, and Ugg boots - hair styled with side-sweep bangs and an up-do trying her best to channel Britney Spears.
JELENA (V.O.) It was the mid-2000s, I was well- into my thirties and all I had to show for was a one-time day player role on Desperate Housewives thanks to Marcia Cross who had graciously gotten me an audition after I contacted her through my school’s alumni network and complimented her memorable work on Melrose Place.
Jelena sighs in her voice over.
JELENA (V.O.) I had a lot of close calls but I could never seem to cross the finish line. So, after acting class on Thursday nights I’d head over to Hyde Night Club to see if I’d get a chance to dance on the tables there with Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan.
She sneaks sips from a flask, while waiting her turn. Would- be CLUB-GOERS are rejected one-by-one, except for a few model- hot girls skipping the line and douche bag-adjacent guys that pay off the Bouncer.
When Younger Jelena finally finds herself next in line, THE BOUNCER looks her over unimpressed, but tries to let her down easy (more so to avoid a scene).
THE BOUNCER It’s not happening. Sorry.
98.
Jelena loses it, causing a scene.
YOUNGER JELENA Do you even watch Desperate Housewives?!
THE BOUNCER (remains firm) You’re never getting in here. I could lose my job if I let you in.
Jelena leaves, passing The Laugh Factory all lit up, makeup smudged and mascara running down her face from crying.
YOUNGER JELENA Jokes on me, I guess!
She polishes off her flask, chucks it over her head and hits a REDHEAD ACTRESS stepping out of a BLACK ESCALADE.
REDHEAD ACTRESS (O.S.) Ow!
JELENA (V.O.) I was at the end of my rope. Casting directors would give feedback like “oh, she needs to drop a few pounds. Her face has a funny look to it. She’s too this, too that.”
Younger Jelena flags down a cab and stumbles into the back.
JELENA (V.O.) But then I got a life-changing call the next morning...
INT. STUDIO APARTMENT IN VENTURA - MORNING
A phone rings. Younger Jelena wakes up groggily in bed, surrounded by empty cans of Red Bull. She reaches for her T- Mobile Sidekick on the nightstand. Checks the number and quickly sits straight up in bed.
YOUNGER JELENA Hi Don! Great to hear from you!
Beat.
DON’S ASSISTANT (O.S.) One moment for Don.
99.
YOUNGER JELENA No worries!
She waits a long beat -- frozen, unmoving.
DON’S ASSISTANT Don, I have Jelena on the phone.
INT. RISING STARS TALENT AGENCY - INTERCUT
A TALENT AGENT stands by his desk in his office overlooking Wilshire Boulevard with a Bluetooth headset on.
TALENT AGENT Jelena, Jelena, Jelena - I’ve got great news for you. You have an audition for the new Vincent Gallo film to play a prostitute who goes on a killing spree to avenge her pimp. He’s looking for someone outside-the-box. They might go for a name but they’re open to unknowns. This could do for you what Monster did for Charlize Theron.
Younger Jelena lights up.
YOUNGER JELENA Sounds right up my alley! Thank you for thinking of me for this. Have your assistant send me the sides and I’ll start prepping.
TALENT AGENT Great, the audition’s in two hours. Now remember, I want you to walk into that room like the leading lady you know you are.
The time crunch doesn’t phase Younger Jelena one bit. She’s ready to nab this role.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY - AS BEFORE
Jelena stands, the knife still in her hand. A soft smile appears on her face as she recalls her past.
100.
JELENA I nailed the audition. The shoot had its challenges and the film debuted at Tribeca to mixed reviews. But I didn’t care. It was enough to get the attention of some big whig at a mini-major who agreed to meet with me when he was in town from New York.
INT. BMW 3 SERIES - SUNSET BOULEVARD - LATE DAY
Younger Jelena drives down The Strip in her new leased BMW, feeling on Cloud 9. Massive billboards loom over ahead.
Kylie Minogue’s Stars trickles in on her stereo system from an iPod Shuffle connected to the cassette player.
JELENA (V.O.) I fired my agent. Got a new agent at a bigger agency. Leased a BMW. Moved from a stinky studio apartment in Ventura to a one- bedroom in the Fairfax District, right behind Canter’s Deli. I felt like I finally got my big break.
INT. SUNSET TOWER HOTEL - LOBBY - LATE DAY
Younger Jelena strides confidently inside. Checks a note on her phone. Her eyes snap on an ASSISTANT set up at a small table. She approaches.
YOUNGER JELENA Hi, I’m Jelena, here for my meeting.
ASSISTANT Right. He’s going to meet with you upstairs in his suite.
The Assistant hands her a keycard.
YOUNGER JELENA (going with it) Okay. That works.
101.
INT. HOTEL SUITE - SOON AFTER
Younger Jelena steps into the room, closes the door. The curtains billow. A MOGUL at a mini-major steps out from the bathroom in a terrycloth robe.
MOGUL Have a seat.
He motions to an arm chair.
JELENA (V.O.) We got to talking for all of like two minutes.
The Mogul seems satisfied with Younger Jelena’s answers, but his eyes are just fixated on her cleavage.
MOGUL I was going to ask you for a massage.
On Younger Jelena, struck by the mention. Not thrilled that a massage was potentially going to factor into this meeting.
YOUNGER JELENA Oh, um... I’m not a masseuse, I’m an actress - from the new Vincent --
MOGUL You didn’t let me finish, you’re not listening to what I’m saying. I am running late for a press junket, I have a lot of Oscar nominees to campaign for this year. So, there’s no time for a massage.
Younger Jelena breathes a sigh of relief. But then The Mogul stands, undoes his sash and lets his robe fall open.
MOGUL (CONT’D) Be quick. There’s a supporting role in a new prestige picture from an acclaimed director shooting this summer in Rome that I think you’d be right for.
He glances down at his privates. She sees it (but luckily we don’t). Younger Jelena lurches back waving her hands.
YOUNGER JELENA (horrified) I can’t, I can’t - sorry.
102.
The Mogul darkens.
MOGUL You’re going to regret this.
Younger Jelena flees the room.
INT. HOTEL SUITE - MOMENTS LATER
The Mogul stands at the balcony, speaks into his headset.
MOGUL Call everyone in town. If they want to work with us they better not hire that actress.
INT. SUNSET TOWER HOTEL - LOBBY
The Assistant watches a teary-eyed Younger Jelena race out of the elevator and escape the hotel.
THE ASSISTANT Copy that.
EXT. ALLEYWAY - NIGHT
Younger Jelena stumbles back towards her apartment, drunk after getting shit-faced at a local bar.
YOUNGER JELENA I hate this town! It stole my soul!
She notices a group of SHADOWY FIGURES gathered in the back by the shuttered Silent Movie Theatre. Their faces slowly come into focus. Among them is MR. FISKE. Younger Jelena points to him.
YOUNGER JELENA (CONT’D) Oh my God, I know you... (slurring her words) I love your work.
MR. FISKE (sotto) Thank you.
She glances around at the rest of the group.
YOUNGER JELENA So, what is this? An acting class or an AA meeting? I can never tell.
103.
They study her a moment, sensing her potential.
INT. BOOTLEGGER'S TUNNELS - NIGHT
The group leads Jelena down through the hidden tunnels.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM - (MID-NOUGHTIES)
Jelena is guided into the auditorium where SEVERAL ROBED FIGURES await in the flickering lights of the projector.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM - PRESENT DAY
Jelena motions for Greg, Carmen, and Barb to take their seats. Mr. Fiske, Shelby, and Doreen make themselves known.
JELENA This place saved me. It saved all of us.
DOREEN I came out here to sing. I thought I was going to be a diamond- certified hitmaker. Didn’t happen.
SHELBY I wanted to write rom-coms like Nora Ephron. I had gained a bit of a name for myself in off-broadway plays but once I moved to LA nothing. Hardly anyone in this town reads scripts anymore it’s all about IP!
JELENA But none of that mattered anymore, this place empowered us in a way that no Hollywood dream ever could.
DOREEN And we’re so indebted to your great- grandfather, Greg.
SHELBY It all started with your great- grandmother Eleonora’s father, but Norton Rous really took it to the next level with The Silent Curse.
Greg digests these startling revelations.
104.
GREG How?
Mr. Fiske explains.
MR. FISKE Screening The Silent Curse on specific nights, combined with certain rituals would summon Agares and grant us power.
CARMEN Who is he?
MR. FISKE (with authority) The true Gatekeeper...
JELENA (starstruck) A Grand Duke of Hell who was known to grant artistic inspiration and success in exchange for devotion and sacrifices.
On Doreen, barely able to contain herself.
DOREEN Agares can bestow earthly power. He makes stars out of all of us, whether in this life or the next.
JELENA It was too-late for most of us to be granted career success, but we got the sacrifices part down...
Jelena smiles knowingly, recalls a memory.
INT. SUNSET TOWER HOTEL - BAR - NIGHT
It’s Oscar Season again. That same Assistant as before sits at the beautiful bar, scrolling through her BlackBerry. It’s been a long day. She signals the Bartender, handsome and fit in a tight shirt.
ASSISTANT (flirty) Can I get another Negroni? I got screamed at and had a stapler thrown at me all in the same day.
The Bartender quick with his hands, gets that Negroni going.
105.
BARTENDER Hey I wanted to ask, does your boss ever let dudes massage him for roles? I’m a big horror guy. And I love the movies they make for his genre label.
She looks at him curiously, maybe a little disappointed.
ASSISTANT Are you gay?
BARTENDER (obvious) I mean, gay-for-pay. Isn’t everyone?
Across the way, Younger Jelena is watching this exchange with dark sunglasses on.
ASSISTANT I don’t know what you’re talking about. I don’t know what goes on in his meetings. I don’t ask questions. I get two weeks off for Christmas and great health insurance. I can’t lose it, I have a lot of hereditary health issues.
BARTENDER Sorry, I just heard things. It’s always been my dream to be the boyfriend of a Final Girl in a horror movie and killed off in a really dramatic fashion. I would do anything to be in one of those teen horror movies. I live on the other side of Laurel Canyon and have a massage table, if that’s something you’re interested in...
The Assistant considers the offer.
ASSISTANT That’s near the Best Western I’m staying at.
BARTENDER You’re not booked here?
ASSISTANT Yeah right, my boss isn’t going to get me a room at this hotel.
106.
Younger Jelena slips by her stool, stealthily steals a keycard sticking out of her handbag.
INT. SUNSET TOWER HOTEL - HOTEL SUITE - NIGHT
The following scene unfolds much like a silent film. The Mogul screams into his phone but no sound comes out.
INTERTITLE: “You’ll never work in this town again!”
Younger Jelena appears in the doorway, closes it behind her. She narrows her eyes, brow furrowed.
The Mogul hangs up the phone, his body stiffens. Eyes wide open, eyebrows raised, and his mouth agape.
INTERTITLE: “You came back.”
Younger Jelena’s fingers steeple together, raises an eyebrow.
INTERTITLE: “I was feeling bold.”
SLAM CUT:
EXT. SUNSET TOWER HOTEL - MOMENTS LATER
The Mogul flies out the window through shattered glass. Mouth agape in a silent scream. His body lands hard on the top of a car. The windows blow out. Blood everywhere! Suddenly, un- silenced SCREAMS echo all around.
INT. NISSAN CUBE - (TRAVELING)
The Assistant drives fast through Laurel Canyon, over the hill along Mulholland Drive.
The Bartender sits in the passenger seat, his hand reaching over to massage her shoulder.
ASSISTANT My boss is dead! I’m freaking out!
BARTENDER (calmly) Relax, babe. Relax.
He continues massaging her shoulder. She makes a sharp turn around a bend, realizing her breaks have been tampered with.
107.
ASSISTANT (screams) My breaks!
The Assistant’s car spins out of control, breaks through the barrier and flies off the cliff. The car lands hard on the rocks, flips over, then rattles and rolls down the steep ravine - EXPLODING into a spectacular fireball.
INT. ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT - LATER
Younger Jelena stands by her TV, watching a news cast on KTLA about the supposed accident and the Mini-Major Movie Mogul flying out the window at The Sunset Tower Hotel. She has a satisfied look on her face. Turns off the TV with a remote.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM - AS BEFORE
Jelena, faces Greg, Carmen, and Barb as Mr. Fiske, Shelby, and Doreen surround them from different points.
JELENA We’ve had a great run through the years, serving Agares. But lately, it’s been harder to recruit new members of this once thriving family.
DOREEN The younger generation isn’t as desperate as we were.
SHELBY They can live their dreams doing it all by themselves with their silly little videos and getting by doing their “content creation.”
MR. FISKE They weren’t suckers enchanted by the movies like we were.
DOREEN They have all the power in their phones. They don’t need to wait around for some fairy godmother to come along and make all their dreams come true.
108.
JELENA Speaking of which, we’ve been getting into the video-making game ourselves. Take a look for yourselves. Roll the clips guys.
She motions to Mr. Fiske who turns on a digital projector hidden in the rafters.
The movie screen lights up with a series of disturbing clips:
1) Secret footage of Frank getting melted by the projector.
2) HIDDEN CAMERA POV: captures The Inspector dousing his body in gasoline and self-immolating at The Hollywood Sign.
3) A TikTok video clip shows Boyd taking the plunge over the balcony, complete with looped comedic SFX. Captions flash on the screen: Watch this! Big Oof! - accompanied by the sound of a boing and crowd clapping.
The footage cuts out.
JELENA (CONT’D) And a surprise cameo by Mabel!
Shelby cuts the curled up curtain - Mabel’s dead body flops out and lands on the stage.
Carmen holds her mouth shock. She tries to scream but no sound comes out. Greg is disgusted, wondering what he’s going to do to save the day.
JELENA (CONT’D) Join us, what do you say?!
The Projector from the booth whirls to life. The Silent Curse imbedded with rituals symbols starts to play.
JELENA (CONT’D) Come on Greg, all those people that turned you down for roles, passed on your scripts and ignored all your emails. This is your chance.
Greg turns to Carmen and Barb, mouths:
INTERTITLE: “We need to destroy the reel!”
GREG (thinking) If I can reach the projector.
109.
CARMEN (thinking) We’re running out of time.
Suddenly, Jelena looks desperate.
JELENA Please, we have to. He isn’t happy with us. We haven’t been as prolific as we used to be. And Agares demands that we make sacrifices.
She wasn’t kidding. The entire auditorium shakes. Jelena becomes angry, points at Greg.
JELENA (CONT’D) You are nothing like Norton! He was committed to his craft! A true multi-hyphenate! You are NEVER going to make it Greg! You’re not good enough!
Nervous, Mr. Fiske turns to Shelby and Doreen.
INTER-TITLE: “We should leave now.”
Greg, Carmen, and Barb are all aghast at the horror that unfolds next:
-- Without warning, Doreen is yanked off her feet by an invisible force and flung against the screen. Her body hits it with a sickening crunch.
The projector’s beam burns into her flesh, searing her silhouette onto the screen like a macabre shadow puppet.
-- Shelby tries to run but the retractable theater seats spring to life. The seats snap up and down, catching her limbs and breaking them with brutal force.
She’s caught in the relentless mechanical grip, her bones snapping like twigs.
-- The entity’s rage continues to manifest as Mr. Fiske is lifted into the air and thrown towards the ornate, golden wall scones that line the theater. Their sharp, decorative spikes impale him. Blood drips.
A SHADOWY FIGURE is captured by a beam of light. The back of a man’s head. Wears a sharp black suit. The silhouette soon comes into focus.
Barb looks to Greg and Carmen:
110.
INTERTITLE: “It’s Norton!”
Sure enough, the likeness of NORTON ROUS turns to face us. He gives them a wide-eyed stare and a big exaggerated smile.
INTERTITLE: “Enjoying the show?”
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - LOBBY
Jelena rushes out of the auditorium. But the theater’s massive chandelier chain suddenly snaps above her. A shower of glass and metal crushes her body in seconds. BLOOD splatters everywhere. Then only silence.
INT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - AUDITORIUM - CONTINUOUS
Barb makes a series of deliberate gestures at Greg and Carmen. She opens up a spiritualist book, flips the pages, and shows Carmen a ritual spell.
INTERTITLE: “Norton’s a prisoner here. We can save him. We can free his soul.”
Barb drawls a circle in the air. Mouths different incantations. Carmen quickly gets to work, does the same. Carmen sees flames trickling up Greg’s sleeves.
INTERTITLE: “Greg, your arm is burning!”
Greg quickly stops, drops, and rolls to put out the fire on his sleeve. Several lights explode across the theater.
Barb is thrown back against the wall and knocked out cold. The lights go dark. But Carmen continues the silent incantations at a frenetic pace.
Greg pauses. A silhouetted FIGURE materializes in the light of the projection. But this time wears a red cloak and long- beaked mask with a goshawk perched on his shoulder.
Greg’s eyes are wide open. But it doesn’t seem like Carmen can see any of this. The Figure removes his mask, revealing red eyes. Although it looks an awful lot like Norton (and Greg) - this is really AGARES - a powerful Duke of Hell.
GREG (V.O.) Agares...
Greg gapes, watching this entity take on the appearance of Norton who in turn looks exactly like himself.
111.
INT. AUDITORIUM - CONTINUOUS
Carmen rushes over to Barb as slowly regains consciousness. The lights flicker back on. Relief on her face. Their voices have returned. They’re no longer silenced.
CARMEN I think we did it.
Carmen holds back tears. Dazed, Barb gazes up at her.
BARB Not bad for a former back-up dancer- turned-psychic, right?
Carmen nods, taking her hand. They share a smile.
CARMEN Not bad at all.
Carmen and Barb look hopeful yet wary. Carmen turns her head and glances around, realizing Greg is no longer in view. But he sees her from above.
SONG: ‘YOU WERE MY GHOST’ by New Arcades
CARMEN (CONT’D) Greg...
Carmen gazes up astonished as she sees Greg levitating off the floor, like a marionette without strings. His arms outstretched in a trance-like state as Agares speaks to him silently in his head.
AGARES (V.O.) It’s not Norton. Not anymore. You see, he became my vessel and you could too.
A blank expression on Greg’s face as he stays suspended in the air above the movie theater seats.
AGARES (V.O.) You don’t have to play by their rules anymore. We can make our own. What do you say, Greg? Are you ready to shine like the star that you know you are?
A flicker in Gregs eye’s as if it’s a proposal he’d consider.
112.
EXT. SILENT MOVIE THEATRE - NIGHT
The marquee sign lights up red. Distant sirens can be heard.
SMASH CUT:
FIN
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