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SWINGIN' KINGS
Screenplay and Story by
Jack Stone
FADE IN:
Los Angeles, California.
INT. KENDO SCHOOL - DAY
The strident clashing of bamboo swords make a rhythmic sound.
Two rows of students wearing Kendo Armor are intensely
focusing on their training partners.
Students stand and strike in perfect unison as they lunge
forward, striking down on opposing students and slowly
retreating back to original position.
Their SENSEI, a Japanese American man, watches as if keeping
vigilance over the Master's tower.
Eventually one student begins to make mental errors. The
Sensei recognizes this as inattentiveness. Training
continues as the Sensei takes mental notes.
The Sensei, by waving his hand, gestures for the students to
stop. They do.
SENSEI
Zeke!
The students all look toward the one student who is obviously
not concentrating on his training.
The Sensei gestures for ZEKE and he quickly steps front and
center.
The Sensei takes a bamboo sword from one of his students and
motions for the rest to sit. They quickly kneel.
Zeke bows to his Sensei.
The Sensei takes a defensive posture while Zeke sets into an
offensive position.
Zeke strikes down almost half hearted and the Sensei blocks
every strike. The Sensei manages quite easily to disarm Zeke
with a single movement.
The sword slides across the floor as the Sensei whacks Zeke
on the head with the bamboo sword.
The Sensei steps back and removes his helmet.
SENSEI (cont'd)
Don't come to class if you're not
focused.
Zeke removes his helmet and bows.
SENSEI (cont'd)
Class dismissed.
The class disperses.
One of the students that stands is PAMELA an attractive
blond. She removes her helmet and her hair spills out like
water billowing down a rocky brook.
She shakes her head and picks up Zeke's sword handing it to
him.
PAMELA
Lose something?
The embarrassed Zeke sheepishly smiles.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. NIGHT CLUB - NIGHT
Backstage of a dance club.
Alternative music can be heard bleeding through the walls
into a backstage dressing room.
ZEKE TAYLOR, dressed in 1940's clothing and greased hair sits
alone in front of a mirror staring at himself while the
facade of the nightlife plays behind him.
Zeke's an American Swing/Rockabilly singer with a career that
is on the decline.
Some people fill the backstage room which is filled with a
partying atmosphere.
Some hanger-ons, and a DRUGGY pass a small mirror and snort a
few lines.
DRUGGY
Hey, Zeke you want some?
ZEKE
C'mon you know I never touch the stuff.
Other chug-a-lug the free booze.
The door to the backstage room opens as the sound of the
house blasts into the room. A ROARING APPLAUSE. A SECURITY
GUY sticks his head in.
SECURITY GUY
Hey, Zeke! There's a chick that wants to
see you. What do you want me to do?
Zeke nods yes. The security guard lets her pass. The door
closes.
An excited GROUPIE, (30ish) all smiles slithers her way over
to Zeke.
GROUPIE
Wow, Zeke Taylor. I can't believe it. I
drove all the way from Bakersfield to see
you tonight.
ZEKE
Thanks. That's really sweet.
The groupie is fumbling through her oversized bag.
GROUPIE
I feel really stupid doing this, but...
She pulls out one of his older records, a 331/3 LP.
GROUPIE (cont'd)
Would you mind signing this for me?
ZEKE
Not at all. What's your name?
GROUPIE
Jennie.
He signs it and hands it back to her. Jennie puts the record
in her bag.
The audience outside is going ballistic for the opening act.
The cheering and applauding is growing.
GROUPIE (cont'd)
Oh, my God, I can't believe it. Can I
give you a hug?
She wraps her arms around him practically squeezing the life
out of him.
GROUPIE (cont'd)
I know you're busy right now. So, I
guess I better get going.
She turns to exit and then turns back toward him.
GROUPIE (cont'd)
Would you do me one more favor?
ZEKE
What's that?
GROUPIE
Could you play, Cat's Away? It's my
favorite song.
ZEKE
Sure thing, it already on the list.
GROUPIE
Thanks.
She turns to exit and a large entourage of people blow into
the room.
The MASTER OF CEREMONY is on stage and goading the crowd for
more.
MC (V.O.)
You want more?
The crowd responds.
CROWD (V.O.)
(cheering)
Yeah.
MC (V.O.)
You gotta let him know.
CROWD
More. More. More.
MC (V.O.)
(joining in)
More. More.
The sound of stomping feet, clapping hands and whistling
embellish the crowds cheering.
The entourage swarm like killer bees around this young and
charismatic newcomer, MIKI. Miki's a souped up, stylistic,
jean jeanie. A wipedout version of Marilyn Manson.
Sweat drips from Miki's forehead as one of the chicks wipes
it from his brow with a handkerchief.
Record label executive types and the usual groupie types
swarm this new sensation.
Everybody is patting Miki on the back and singing his
praises.
LEO KATZ, is a typical lying, low life, back stabbing, sleaze
bag who's supposed to be representing Zeke.
Leo sports way too much gold. God forbid if he should fall
into a swimming pool and drown.
Leo has his arm wrapped tightly around Miki as if protecting
him from the hoards of worshippers, but what he is actually
doing is making sure if they want to deal with Miki, they got
to go through him.
LEO
(to the crowd)
Everybody move back, c'mon, c'mon give
him some room.
Leo's got his arm wrapped around Miki's neck and practically
choking him to death in his excitement.
LEO (cont'd)
(to Miki)
Did I tell ya? What did I tell ya?
We're going places.
The executives begin to swarm Miki.
Suddenly the promoter for this evenings event, LOUIE a
balding and overweight stiff enters the room.
He looks to his left and then to his right and in the
confusion he finally spots who he's looking for.
LOUIE
(to Miki)
Kid, you got to get back out there.
LEO
Not now Louie. Can't you see we're busy?
LOUIE
(to Leo)
Listen to that crowd.
(to Miki)
Kid, you're knockin' Ôem dead!
Louie gets lost in the shuffle.
Zeke, who is still sitting on the stool in front of the
mirror is now turned around. He looks up at the promoter and
then over to his manager taking this all in.
The praises keep piling onto Miki like flies on horse shit.
An executive approaches Leo.
EXECUTIVE
Leo, let's schedule a meeting for Monday.
LEO
You got my number. We'll talk.
Another executive muscles his way in grabbing at Leo's hand
for a shake.
EXECUTIVE II
Hey, Leo. This kid's gonna be big. Real
big. Let's talk real soon.
Zeke interrupts.
ZEKE
Hey, Leo can I talk to you for a moment?
LEO
Yeah, I'll be right with you.
An executive interrupts, shaking hands with Leo.
SAL
I'm Sal Goldstein from...
LEO
I know who you are. You're from Warner
Brothers. You always pass on my
projects.
Leo slightly snubs Sal. He's still got his arm around Miki's
neck. He turns his back to Sal as Miki continues to be
approached from the throngs of people.
Meanwhile, the crowd is still chanting in the club.
CROWD (V.O.)
Miki! Miki! Miki!
A young Japanese record label executive CHIEKO SHIMURA tries
to intervene.
CHIEKO
Hello, I'd like to meet with you about
Zeke Taylor.
LEO
Yeah, I'll be right with you.
Sal turns Leo back around and hands him his card.
SAL
Here's my private line. Don't sit on
this too long. I'm going to make you an
offer you can't refuse.
LEO
We'll talk.
Leo beams and continues on.
ZEKE
(intervening)
Leo, what's goin' on? It's eleven
thirty. I was supposed to go on at ten?
LEO
(to Zeke)
Did you get a drink?
Leo shouts over to Louie, like he's now his personal patsy.
LEO (cont'd)
Louie, c'mon get Zeke a drink.
ZEKE
(to Louie)
I don't want a drink.
(to Leo)
I thought this was supposed to me my gig?
LEO
Relax.
Another executive MARTY, tries to muscle his way over to Leo.
MARTY
Leo, can we talk?
LEO
(to Marty)
Hey, Marty do you know Zeke?
MARTY
Yeah, I remember Zeke.
LEO
He's got a whole slew of new material.
The executive is looking around the room and not at all
particularly interested in a word Leo has to say about Zeke.
LEO (cont'd)
You got to hear it.
MARTY
Sure.
LEO
Really fresh stuff.
MARTY
Really? That's great.
LEO
Let's set up a meeting on Monday.
Whatdaya say?
MARTY
Sure. Ok. Sounds great!
Zeke gets brushed into the background.
Miki's more or less swarmed by chicks, getting his picture
taken and signing autographs as Marty pulls Leo his way.
MARTY (cont'd)
About this new kid.
Louie interrupts.
LOUIE
Leo, for Christ's sake, they're tearin'
the place up out there, will you get that
kid back on stage?
The entire crowd follows Miki back out of the room.
The audience still chants.
CROWD (V.O.)
Miki! Miki! Miki!
Leo's the last one to exit, he turns back before closing the
door.
LEO
Hey Zeke, break a leg.
The door closes.
Zeke stands alone.
The sound of the audience comes back to life as Miki takes
the stage.
CROWD
(loudly)
Yay!
The cheer is embellished by hand clapping.
INT. ZEKE'S APARTMENT - LATER SAME NIGHT
The light switches on.
A guitar case passes the entry way into the living room where
Zeke sets down his guitar case.
He walks past a couple of Japanese samurai swords that adorn
his wall. He hits a switch on an answering machine.
LEO (V.O.)
Hey, Zeke this is Leo. Everybody's
confirmed for the showcase tonight.
You've got to be at your best. I'm
countin' on you! Don't forget, ten
sharp!
Zeke continues past a bookshelf with Japanese language
instructional books, books on calligraphy and other books
based on Far East and Asian cultures.
PAMELA (V.O)
Hey, it's me Pamela. Sorry I couldn't
make it to your show. Maybe next time.
See you in Kendo on Tuesday. Stay
focused.
(she giggles)
Just kidding. Bye!
Zeke enters his bedroom. He tosses his suit jacket and tie
on the bed.
The next message is the landlord BARB KLEIN, she wants her
rent.
BARB (V.O.)
Mr. Taylor, this is Barb Klein. You were
supposed to drop your rent off last
Friday. I still haven't received it.
Just leave it in my box tomorrow.
A Japanese fan adorns his bedroom wall and a bamboo plants
sits next to his window.
Zeke steps out of his shoes and leave his pants on his bed.
LEO (V.O.)
Hey, its Leo. Sorry I couldn't stay for
your show. Had to run. Call me
tomorrow. I'll tell you what, we got to
talk. I'll see you at the office at
four. No make it five thirty.
A rice paper wall divider separates the main room from the
jacuzzi.
Zeke plugs a DVD tape into a player.
Kurosawa's, Yojimbo plays on a big screen TV.
The naked Zeke heads for the jacuzzi.
INT. JACUZZI - CONTINUOUS
Zeke steps down into a hot tub.
He sinks into the bubbling water and pulls his hair back out
of his eyes. The movie plays in the background with Zeke not
really watching.
INT. LEO'S OFFICE - LATER SAME DAY
The clock shows that it is about ten after six.
Zeke sits in a chair fidgeting, obviously he's still waiting
for Leo.
A RECEPTIONIST hangs up the phone.
RECEPTIONIST
(to Zeke)
I can't locate him anywhere.
Zeke stands.
ZEKE
Well, tell him that I stopped by.
Suddenly, like a bolt of lightening Leo enters his office
with a phone glued to his ear.
LEO
(to the receptionist)
Hold my calls.
(to Zeke)
Hey, Zeke how ya doin'? I'll be right
with you.
He rushes into his office and slams the door.
INT. LEO'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Pictures of Zeke and some gold records fill the wall.
LEO
(on the phone)
So, Sal like I was saying. You don't
want to get in the middle of a bidding
war do you? You know he's hot. I know
he's hot and I got him tied into a long
term contract. He's my property. So get
real, get with it and get back with me.
I gotta take this other call.
(pause)
Then I gotta put you on hold.
Leo hits a button and sits with a smile on his face,
gloating.
Taking his sweet time, Leo lights up a cigar and hits another
button.
LEO (cont'd)
(to the receptionist)
Send him in.
Zeke enters the office.
LEO (cont'd)
Sit down. We gotta have a man to man.
Zeke sits.
ZEKE
So what do you want to talk about?
LEO
Listen, Zeke. Every label turned us down
last night.
ZEKE
Every one?
LEO
Every one.
ZEKE
C'mon. A year ago there was a huge
bidding war for me.
LEO
That was a year ago. Your last record
flopped. I can't blame you, The
distributor dropped the ball. The
publicist didn't target the right market.
But the point is, the labels only looks
at the bottom line and that is, you're
still a half million in the red and that
is why Polygram doesn't want to renew
your contract. And no one else is
willing to gamble on you.
Zeke sits back and absorbs this very bad news.
ZEKE
I trust you Leo. What's next? What do
we got to do to bail us out?
LEO
There's only one thing left for you to do
if you want to rebuild your career.
ZEKE
What's that?
LEO
A company out of Japan, affiliated with
Sony wants to pick up your option. But
they want you to do a one eighty. They
want to call the shots.
ZEKE
What do you suggest?
LEO
I think you should go to Japan. Listen
to what they have to say. They want to
start a new project with you as the front
man but under a band name. Build up a
following in Asian territories and then
we'll get European distribution, shoot a
few new videos and bring you home through
the back door.
ZEKE
I don't know what to say.
LEO
Say yes. You got no other choice in the
matter. Unless you want to call it
quits.
Zeke stands.
ZEKE
I'll let you know.
LEO
You do that.
Zeke shakes hands with Leo who's wearing too many gold rings.
Zeke exits.
Leo hits the button again.
LEO (cont'd)
(to the receptionist)
Get Sal back on the line.
RECEPTIONIST (V.O.)
He's still holding.
Leo picks up his phone.
LEO
Anyways, about this new kid. You know
that I know that everybody wants him. So
Sal, you're either in or your out.
FADE TO BLACK.
Soft and soothing background music plays.
INT. AMERICAN STYLE SUSHI RESTAURANT - LATER SAME NIGHT
Zeke and Pamela sit in a booth at a sushi bar. They're
sharing a meal together.
The table is filled with exotic Japanese cuisine.
PAMELA
So, just like that. You're out?
ZEKE
Like strike three.
PAMELA
I don't know. It could be a great
opportunity for you.
ZEKE
A great opportunity? I've lost just
about everything. And if I don't get it
together quick, I'll even lose my home.
So, wherein lies this magic pearl?
PAMELA
Read between the lines Zeke.
ZEKE
Do you care to expound on that?
PAMELA
What? Do I have to beat you over the
head with it? You love Asian culture.
You're in love with Japan. I mean look
at your life style. Look at the women
you date. When's the last time you dated
an American woman anyway? Look at your
home. Look where we're eating? Yes, I
think this is an opportunity of a life
time. And besides what do you have to
lose? Go for it!
ZEKE
So you think this could be a good thing?
PAMELA
Does, duh ring a bell?
A Japanese WAITRESS brings the bill to the table. Zeke goes
to pick it up.
Pamela snatches it up.
PAMELA (cont'd)
I got it.
INT. AIRPLANE - DAY
Japan Airlines.
A Japanese STEWARDESS walks down the aisle carrying a tray.
Zeke sits in a window seat looking down at the city of Tokyo
as the plane prepares for landing.
INT. NARITA AIRPORT - A LITTLE LATER ON
Zeke exits the plane.
Chieko Shimura, the A&R executive that Leo blew-off in Los
Angeles is wearing a conservative business suit and holding a
sign with Zeke's name on it.
Zeke waves and walks toward him.
CHIEKO
(in English)
Zeke! My names Cheiko Shimura.
They shake hands.
Zeke's fumbling with his carry on bag and pulls out a generic
language book, "Japanese, The Fun And Easy Way." Zeke tries
to speak in Japanese.
ZEKE
(in Japanese)
My name is Zeke. I am pleased to meet
you.
CHIEKO
Please, speak English your Japanese could
get you in trouble.
ZEKE
Did I say something wrong?
CHIEKO
You just told me you want to have my love
child.
ZEKE
No way!
CHIEKO
I am just joking.
ZEKE
Very funny Chico. I'm going to be here a
while. I think I need to practice my
Japanese.
CHIEKO
No worries. In Japan, everyone speaks
English.
INT. NARITA AIRPORT - A LITTLE LATER ON
Zeke takes his passport from a customs AGENT and continues on
his way.
A few Japanese teenage SCHOOLGIRLS notice Zeke. All starry-
eyed they approach him.
SCHOOLGIRL
Hello. You're Zeke Taylor?
ZEKE
Yes.
The girl smiles brightly.
SCHOOLGIRL
(in Japanese to the other
teenage girls)
This is Zeke Taylor. Can you believe it?
Zeke Taylor.
SCHOOLGIRL II
Who's Zeke Taylor?
The girl hands him a pen and paper.
SCHOOLGIRL
Can I have your autograph please?
ZEKE
(to the girl)
Sure.
(to Chieko)
Mums the word.
A crowd of teenage girls begin to grow as Zeke and Chieko
continue on their way through the airport.
There are hightech images of people in the airport sitting in
lounging chairs and watching big screen video as they wait
for departure. There are vending machines selling items that
Americans are not used to seeing. (For example, Alcohol.)
SCHOOLGIRL
(to the growing crowd of girls)
Zeke Taylor. It's Zeke Taylor!
The small crowd of girls continue to follow Zeke as he begins
to leave the airport.
EXT. NARITA AIRPORT - CONTINUOUS
A taxi waits at the curb for Chieko and Zeke. The TAXI
DRIVER is wearing a well starched uniform with bow tie, cap
and white gloves.
TAXI DRIVER
(in Japanese)
Welcome!
He opens the door with a charismatic smile.
Zeke and Chieko enter the taxi. By now there are many young
women flocking after Zeke, partially in awe and partially
because the others are following after him.
ZEKE
Wow! I think I'm going to like it here.
Zeke waves goodbye. The girls follow after the vehicle as it
pulls away.
INT. TAXI - CONTINUOUS
Zeke's POV of the foreign images/sights as the taxi makes
it's way through Tokyo.
MONTAGES:
Moving from the country into the city.
Rice paddies and workers in the field, traditional Japanese
homes in the country dissipate as strange freeways, toll
booths, and the city of Tokyo begins to take form in the
distance.
The taxi continues on into the heart of Tokyo, crowds of
pedestrians cross peaceably through the immaculate streets,
advertisements in Japanese leap out and a huge Coca Cola
billboard in Japanese hints to Zeke that he is no longer on
American soil.
The taxi pulls up to the front of a towering and beautiful
architectural structure.
INT. OFFICE BUILDING - LATER SAME DAY
Zeke and Chieko enter an elevator. A well groomed female
ELEVATOR OPERATOR takes them to their destiny.
The elevator numbers speedily pass as it finally stops at
it's destination on the 60th floor. The door opens.
INT. EXECUTIVES OFFICE - LATER SAME DAY
The pristine office is filled with executives. They're
smoking cigarettes and drinking tea out of their own
individual tea mugs.
The office is about sixty floors high, with a panoramic view
of the city of Tokyo. The view is breathtaking.
Posters of Zeke, his past recordings and PR fill the table in
front of the executives.
Chieko enters with Zeke following from behind.
MR. MIMOSHO, an immaculate man is wearing an expensive, black
three piece business suit. He stands and introduces himself
to Zeke.
MR. MIMOSHO
Zeke! Glad you could make it.
ZEKE
Mr. Mimosho?
Mr. Mimosho bows. Zeke bows.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Thank you for bringing me to Tokyo. I've
always wanted to visit your country. I'm
honored.
CHIEKO
And the experience has already been
overwhelming.
ZEKE
He means the girls at the airport. I got
a good case of writers cramp from signing
so many autographs.
Mr. Mimosho introduces the other executives to Zeke.
MR. MIMOSHO
Zeke, I'd like you to meet my business
associates, Mr. Arai.
He bows. Zeke mirrors each bow.
MR. MIMOSHO (cont'd)
Mr. Miyamoto.
He bows.
MR. MIMOSHO (cont'd)
Mr. Yamaguchi.
He bows.
MR. MIMOSHO (cont'd)
And Mr. Kimora.
He bows.
ZEKE
(in Japanese)
I'm very glad to meet you.
MR. MIMOSHO
Please sit down.
Zeke takes a seat.
MR. MIMOSHO (cont'd)
Let's get right to business.
ZEKE
I have one question if I may?
MR. MIMOSHO
Yes?
ZEKE
How's the swing scene here in Tokyo?
MR. MIMOSHO
Swing is very popular in Japan. With
hard work and determination we hope to
have much success.
Everyone smiles.
ZEKE
When do we begin?
MR. MIMOSHO
We have set up auditions for you to meet
with musicians.
ZEKE
Great, let's get to it.
MR. MIMOSHO
We are already making arrangements.
The other men share a laugh with Mr. Mimosho.
MR. MIMOSHO (cont'd)
Chieko will be in charge with all of your
affairs during your stay with us. He
will pick you up for dinner where we will
get better acquainted and discuss the
matter at hand. But, for now he will
take you to your new home.
ZEKE
Cool!
He attempts to shake hands with all five executives. He
sticks out his hand, they bow. In return, he bows and they
stick out their hand. Finally, they get it right.
ZEKE (CONT'D)
Thank you. Thank you very much.
EXT. ZEKE'S TINY APARTMENT - LATER SAME DAY
Chieko opens the door.
Zeke steps in and begins to look around. Everything is so
tiny compared to his American home.
He opens this and closes that. He turns on this and turns
off that. He turns on the TV.
Zeke looks into the bathroom.
Tommy is patiently removing his shoes at the door.
A LITTLE OLD LADY, the apartment manager, peaks around the
corner.
ZEKE
You know something Chico? I couldn't fit
my wardrobe in this room back home.
Zeke's got his head stuck into the restroom as he continues
to check out the place. (The way he is positioned Chieko and
the Old Lady only see his shoes and legs.)
LITTLE OLD LADY
(in Japanese)
Ah, American!
Zeke turns to see Tommy and the little Old Lady standing at
the door in their stocking feet. He looks down at his shoes.
INT. A HIGH CLASS RESTAURANT - NIGHT
A traditional Japanese female DANCER is on stage while
percussive instruments accompany her movement. She is
performing Odori, a female version of Kubuki.
There is a toast. Small saki glasses CLATTER together.
There is laughter.
The executives, Chieko and Zeke sit at a table eating dinner.
They are slightly inebriated and enjoying good company.
MR. MIMOSHO
That is not necessarily so. What about
the all star game? Japan beat the
American all star team.
ZEKE
Well, maybe so. Anyway, who cares about
the all star games? That's not a real
team. What I'm saying is that there is
no way that the Japanese champions could
ever beat a World Series team.
MR. ARAI
(in Japanese)
Why is the world series only American
teams?
With a look like he's saying, Gotcha there!
ZEKE
What? What did he say?
CHIEKO
Mr. Arai said, why is it called the world
series and only the American teams play?
ZEKE
I don't know. I don't make the rules.
OK, name me one famous Japanese player
that could play in America?
They all turn to Zeke and shout.
ALL THE EXECUTIVES
Hidecki Arabu.
ZEKE
Who's that? Never heard of him.
MR. MIMOSHO
You never heard of Hidecki Arabu? He
plays for the Yankees. And the Yankees
won the world series.
They all roar with laughter at Zeke's expense.
ZEKE
Name me one other famous Japanese ball
player?
MR. YAMAGUCHI
The pitcher in Los Angeles.
KYOKO, a beautiful, shy and subservient Japanese woman walks
past their table with an elderly man. Zeke can't take his
eyes off of her as she exits the room.
Chieko slaps Zeke's knee.
CHIEKO
I teach you a Japanese game. Jan Ken
Pon.
ZEKE
I know that game.
Zeke makes the game movement.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Paper, scissor, stone. Which way you
gonna look? C'mon, Chico let's look.
They start to play a paper, scissor, stone Japanese drinking
game. The loser has to take a drink of saki.
CHIEKO AND ZEKE TOGETHER
(Cheiko)
Jan, Ken, Pon.
(Zeke)
Paper, scissor, stone.
They shoot it out.
Zeke loses.
CHIEKO
(motioning with his hand)
Achi, Muite, Phoi.
Zeke can't follow, he has to slam down some saki.
CHIEKO AND ZEKE TOGETHER
(Cheiko)
Jan, Ken, Pon.
(Zeke)
Paper, scissor, stone.
They shoot it out again.
Zeke loses again.
CHIEKO
(motioning with his hand)
Achi, Muite, Phoi.
Zeke can't follow, he has to slam down another saki.
CHIEKO (CONT'D)
Zeke, you're drunk.
ZEKE
Ha, I'm not drunk watch this.
He stands up does a one legged trick where he holds his leg
and jumps through it.
They all clap.
CHIEKO
I can do that.
Chieko makes a feeble attempt at the trick. He falls down.
Everyone laughs.
INT. REHEARSAL SPACE - NEXT DAY
Zeke is meeting with several musicians. He's obviously very
tired from this lengthy process and a bit hung over from the
night before.
An upright bassist, SMUTTY is packing up his gear and getting
ready to exit. Smutty has lot's of tatoos and speaks with a
British accent.
ZEKE
Well, let you know. Thank you very much
for your time.
SMUTTY
Well, one way or another it was nice to
meet you. Good luck!
He steps toward Zeke and they shake hands.
The next musician is too eccentric for Zeke and not right for
Rockabilly and swing.
BOBBY, is an American that is totally whacked out. Too many
drugs and too much too soon.
BOBBY
Guitar playing is everything to me dude.
It's my life. I've been doing session
work overseas now for the past six
months. A lot of dance tracks.
ZEKE
Really?
Bobby's setting up way too much equipment, a stack of Marshal
amp's and a huge rack of effects.
BOBBY
Don't get me wrong, I love the classic
rockers but, I'm really into the British
invasion. Pistols, The Damned and all
the retro resurgence of sonic punk that's
happening right now. But listen, I'm not
at all into The Dead. Not a dead head.
I'm sorta, what you might call, like a
mixture of post modern industrial grunge.
Got it?
Chieko shakes his head no toward Zeke.
ZEKE
(being polite)
Let's see what ya got?
Bobby plugs in his guitar. He begins to play. He's not bad
but he's too loud and playing with too much distortion.
The table is shaking and the glasses on the table are
vibrating toward the edge.
Zeke manages to get him to stop playing just as Chieko
catches a glass as it is falling off the edge.
ZEKE (cont'd)
That's great. But could you turn down a
bit. Take off the distortion and play me
a standard. Something soft and melodic.
You know, bring it way down. Way down.
BOBBY
A standard?
ZEKE
Yeah, like. Gershwin's, Our Love Is Here
To Stay?
Bobby shakes his head no.
ZEKE (CONT'D)
How Ôbout, Chattanooga Choo Choo?
Bobby's got a deer in the headlights look. He shakes his
head no.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Mac The Knife?
Bobby shakes his head no again.
ZEKE (cont'd)
OK. Well, we'll get back with you.
Thanks for coming by.
BOBBY
Right on. We'll rock dude.
Bobby loads up his stuff and as he's leaving...
BOBBY (cont'd)
See ya!
He wheels out his equipment.
Chieko crosses out Bobby's name off of his list and reads the
next name.
CHIEKO
This next guy is called Crash. He's a
drummer. The word is he's hot.
ZEKE
Well, let's have a look at him.
CRASH is a Canadian drummer with a history of playing
Rockabilly. He's also a pretty boy.
He enters the room wearing a double breasted suit. Lot's of
charisma and his aura fills the room.
ZEKE (CONT'D)
Well, you look good. But can you blow?
Crash sits down at the drum set and pulls out a pair of
brushes.
He cracks his knuckles and begins to play softly, almost
melodically.
Zeke talks while Crash continues to play.
ZEKE (cont'd)
So where you from?
CRASH
Toronto.
ZEKE
What brought you to Tokyo?
CRASH
Modeling.
ZEKE
So you're a pretty boy?
CRASH
It pays the bills.
ZEKE
You play pretty good.
CRASH
I like to think so.
ZEKE
You're not exactly a shy character are
you?
CRASH
Should I be? I know who I am and I know
what I want. I practice religiously,
like clock work. And my looks don't have
anything to do with who I am as a person.
So, I'm pretty good looking, what of it?
Hey, I could have been a load squirted
down my mom's throat that night I was
conceived. Know what I mean?
ZEKE
(laughing and not believing
what he just heard)
What?
CRASH
Happenstance. Ever heard of it?
ZEKE
(to Chieko)
I like this guy.
(to Crash)
You're in.
CRASH
Not so fast. That depends?
Crash stops playing.
CRASH (cont'd)
I got a friend that plays guitar better
than anyone. Bar none!
He don't over play, the most melodic
solos you ever heard and he's got a great
vibrato that'll shake the life out of
you. If you want me. You got to take
him.
ZEKE
What if I don't. Then what?
CRASH
Then I go back to modeling. I play with
him or no one. Besides, once you hear
that cat, you won't want to waste your
time searching for someone else who can't
hold a candle to him?
ZEKE
When can I meet that cat?
CRASH
He's right outside. But, I got to level
with you about one thing.
ZEKE
And what's that?
CRASH
He's a user. At least he used to be.
But he's been clean for about three
months. So, you still want to meet him?
Or do we walk?
ZEKE
Get him in here. Let's have a look see.
Crash exits and returns.
CHIEKO
(to Zeke)
This could be trouble. Mr. Mimosho
warned of getting involved with unsavory
characters.
Crash enters with Stack.
CRASH
Zeke, meet Stack.
STACK JONES, looks a bit fried but very hip. He totes a
Gretsch guitar with a Bigsby wang bar.
STACK
How's it hangin' boys? This reminds me
of a time when I was tending bar on the
lower East side of New York.
He plugs into the amp and begins to play the Duke Ellington
standard, Prelude To A Kiss.
His style is powerful and emotional. He obviously can carry
a room with his presence as well as his tune.
ZEKE
Wow!
(to Crash)
I see what you mean.
(to Stack)
I want one promise.
Stack continues to play.
STACK
Yeah?
ZEKE
I've been through the junk scene. I've
seen it all, heard it all and done it
all. I got dead friends and I don't want
another one. It's kinda hard to
reminisce with a corpse and I'm cold to
cool.
(pause)
Straight, you're in. Doped up, you're
gone.
CRASH
Don't worry. Be happy.
ZEKE
Rehearsals begin tomorrow night at eight.
CRASH
And don't be late.
Crash and Stack exit.
CHIEKO
So, what do you think?
ZEKE
Give a call back to that British bassist.
He's got it all. Great slap, knows how
to walk and he's been there before.
CHIEKO
I've got to tell you, you're wasting your
time with this guitar player. Mr.
Mimosho will not approve of this fellow
Stack.
ZEKE
I got a way with problem children. We'll
keep him in check.
CHIEKO
I must be loyal to my employer. This
fellow he could bring trouble. I'm
afraid the answer will be no. I'm sorry.
ZEKE
Do you want a product that jumps?
CHIEKO
Of course. This is what we all want.
ZEKE
Then trust me. Someone who plays that
good is hard to find. There are alot of
fakers but he's the real McCoy. We need
someone like him. And what Mr. Mimosho
doesn't know won't hurt him.
Chieko stays quiet but he thinks Zeke is making a mistake.
INT. THE JUMPIN' JOINT - NIGHT
The Swingin' Kings first showcase.
At a table with a reserved placard sit the Japanese
executives. They sip drinks and pay close attention to the
band and to the audiences reaction.
An adjoining table next to them with a reserved placard sits
empty.
Zeke's new ensemble is onstage playing the Rockabilly tune,
Once Burnt Twice Shy.
Mr. Mimosho taps his foot to the music while the other
executives sit stiff.
The place is about half filled with a few hard-core swingin'
couples out on the dance floor.
The other executives begin to tap their feet.
The younger hipper kids are still feeling out the band.
ZEKE
(singing)
I got me a sweety pie. She's the apple
of my eye. She's the girl that I adore,
but she's rotten to the core. She's
rotten. She's rotten to the core.
The band joins in on the chorus.
THE BAND
Once burnt, twice shy. Once burnt twice
shy. Once burnt twice shy. Once burnt
twice shy.
Mr. Mimosho dances with one of the young women in the club.
ZEKE
She's rotten. She's rotten to the core.
Stack takes a solo.
All the executives are now dancing with young women.
ZEKE (cont'd)
(singing)
Once burnt twice shy. Once burnt twice
shy. Once burnt twice shy. Once burnt
twice shy.
By now the entire club is joining into the chorus and the
dance floor is getting pretty full.
ZEKE (cont'd)
She's rotten. She's rotten to the core.
The band takes the song out.
Kyoko is ushered to the reserved table where she sits alone.
She pulls out an English language book and begins to study.
A light goes on in Zeke's head. He recognizes Kyoko from the
restaurant. Zeke's eyes follow her as he continues to sing
the song.
INT. KENDO SCHOOL - DAY
In Japan.
Students strike down on their opponents who block their
strikes. They reset and repeat. There is a definite
rhythmic pattern to the striking of the swords.
INT. CLASSROOM - DAY
The rhythmic sound of chalk as words in Japanese are being
written on the chalkboard, (Good Morning. How are you
today?) Above these words are the English equivalent.
The classroom is filled with Westerners who are studying
Japanese. Zeke is one of the students.
The INSTRUCTOR and class speak in Japanese as he points to
the words on the board with a stick.
INSTRUCTOR
Good morning.
THE ENTIRE CLASS
Good morning.
Zeke is writing in a notebook and taking notes.
INSTRUCTOR
How are you today?
THE ENTIRE CLASS
How are you today?
INSTRUCTOR
I am fine. And you?
THE ENTIRE CLASS
I am fine. And you?
EXT. THE JUMPIN' JOINT - NIGHT
A bright, flashing neon light flashes, The Jumpin' Joint.
The marquee of the club has the name, The Swingin' Kings
spelled out in bold letters.
A long line of very hip looking people wait to enter the
club.
INT. THE JUMPIN' JOINT - NIGHT
The dance floor is filled with couples swing dancing and
having loads of fun.
The Swingin' Kings are rockin' hard. Stack takes a solo that
ends the little diddy, No Do Re Mi.
The crowd applauds.
ZEKE
Thank you dancers. You're too kind.
Really. This next songs dedicated to all
the beautiful young ladies, especially to
the mystery woman I'd like someday to
call my own.
Zeke points to Kyoko who does not acknowledge him.
He starts to snap his fingers. The band snaps their fingers.
The audience joins in.
The executives are at their table and enjoying themselves.
Smutty starts to jibe well, walkin' in the key of G.
The band strikes up the song, Holy Joe.
ZEKE (cont'd)
(singing)
The preacher man's got a hypocritical
look. He's got a raised right hand and
the holy book. He's always shoutin'
Ôbout the fire that burns down below,
Come and put out my fire mister Holy Joe.
The horn section jumps in hard.
The dance couples on the floor out-do one another with
incredible swing moves.
ZEKE (cont'd)
He got the slick back hair, he stands in
front of the pew. And you never ever
even know the things that you do. Lay
your hands on my and give me the spirit.
And when you touch me that way honey,
just call me dearest. Holy Joe.
The band moves.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Come and save my soul. Holy Joe.
Stack takes a rippin' solo.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. BUDDHIST TEMPLE - DAY
Temple/Park.
Incense burn as offerings sit in front of the altar for a
statue of Buddha.
Three hands claps are heard and a ELDERLY WOMAN bows in
silent prayer.
Zeke is in the background sitting on a bench. He watches the
woman in prayer while Oragami Cranes hang on bamboo limbs all
around him.
EXT. BUDDHIST TEMPLE - CONTINUOUS
The elderly woman ends her prayer, picks up her bag of
groceries and walks away.
Zeke looks around and steps toward the Buddha.
Again, he looks around as if he was going to be caught doing
something terribly embarrassing. He claps his hands three
times and bows in prayer.
INT. JUMPIN' JOINT - NIGHT
Zeke shakes hands with Mr. Mimosho and the executives
entourage exit the club.
Zeke walks over to a table where the band is now relaxing.
There are plenty of good looking women hangin' around as
well.
ZEKE
I got some good news fellas.
Smutty claps his hands three times. Zeke subtly takes
notice.
SMUTTY
Well, let's here what you got to say?
ZEKE
Get this... The club's owner has agreed
to extend our contract for three weeks.
The guys are jazzed.
ZEKE (cont'd)
We're still a little stale, but after
three weeks of playing nightly we'll be
ready for our first studio session.
The guys raise their glasses. Crash has a Martini, Smutty a
British Ale.
CRASH
A toast, to The Swingin' Kings!
Stack holds up a bottle of water.
Zeke can't help but notice Kyoko sitting alone, lost in her
book.
STACK
(slapping Zeke)
Man, all these chicks at your fingertips
and you carry a torch for her?
CRASH
She's untouchable.
SMUTTY
Maybe so, but she's red hot.
CRASH
Unreachable.
SMUTTY
Unapproachable.
Zeke goes to sit and Stack pulls the chair away not allowing
Zeke to sit.
STACK
(gesturing toward Kyoko)
Whatcha gonna do stare? Or get near?
The boys prod him over to the table.
Zeke sheepishly walks over to the table where Kyoko sits
alone.
He sits down.
ZEKE
(to Kyoko)
I couldn't help but notice you studying
English.
No response. He's really nervous now.
ZEKE (cont'd)
My names Zeke. What's yours?
She doesn't even look up from her book.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Find anything interesting in there?
He looks over to the boys who are having a laugh at his
expense.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Hello, is anyone home?
The boys are now howling at him.
ZEKE (cont'd)
You know, I got chicks to the left of me.
I got chicks to the right of me. I got
chicks all around me. But, I ain't got
you even acknowledging my existence.
No response.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Why don't you look up this word?
He writes out the word rude on her pad and slides it over to
her.
No response.
ZEKE (cont'd)
(a bit agitated)
What's the use, you don't understand a
damn word I'm saying anyway.
Walking off he gestures toward the stage.
ZEKE (cont'd)
(to the boys)
Hey, fellas.
The band takes to the stage.
ZEKE (cont'd)
(to Kyoko)
This one's for you honey.
The band plays the ballad, I Was A Fool To Fall In Love.
ZEKE (cont'd)
(singing)
Now, she's gone. She left me standing
all alone. Why, I don't know. She said
she had to be free and oh, I was a fool
to fall in love. Yes, I was a fool to
fall in love.
Halfway through the song, Zeke walks over to Kyoko's table
with a wireless microphone and continues to croon exclusively
for her.
ZEKE (cont'd)
I was always there when she needed me.
Where has she gone someone tell me. I
was such a fool to want a love that can't
be true. A love that's there for others
too. To share kisses other men have
known, oh no. And I was a fool to fall
in love. Yes, I was a fool to fall in
love. And she never cared I suppose.
Oh, no. Yes, I was a fool to fall in
love. I was a fool, to fall in love.
Zeke sang this song from the bottom of his heart and again,
she pays him no mind.
Zeke notices her freshly lit cigarette that she has placed in
an ashtray. He picks it up.
ZEKE (cont'd)
You know the surgeon general has
determined that cigarettes smoking sucks.
He puts her cigarette out and turns to walk away when he
accidentally bumps into one of FOUR DRUNKEN MARINES.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Excuse me.
He tries to sidestep the Marine he bumped. The Marine will
have none of this, it appears they finally got the fight they
have been looking for all night.
He stops Zeke in his tracks.
MARINE I
There's no excuse for your sorry ass.
Zeke tries to walk around them. The Marines all begin to
crowd around him blocking his path whichever way he turns.
ZEKE
Look I apologized for bumping into you
what else do you want?
MARINE II
Looks like you're cruisin' for a bruisin'
buddy.
One Marine cracks his knuckles in Zeke's face.
The CLUB OWNER does not want any trouble. He intervenes.
CLUB OWNER
(to the Marines)
Please, have a drink on the house and
accept our apologies. We don't want any
trouble.
MARINE I
This ain't gonna be any trouble at all.
The Marine pushes the club owner away.
The club security rushes over to the ruckus the Marines are
causing.
ZEKE
Don't you know you can never win a battle
against the house. The cards are stacked
against you. Aces and Eights.
MARINE
What's that supposed to mean?
ZEKE
Dead man's hand.
The band rushes up to Zeke.
SMUTTY
Let's take these blokes out behind the
woodshed and teach them a lesson they
won't soon forget.
ZEKE
(to the boys)
I can handle this.
(to the Marines)
You're on foreign soil. You should show
more respect. You're supposed to be
representing the United States of
America. Maybe you need to be taught a
lesson.
MARINE II
And you're the one who's going to teach
us?
The Marines pound down their drinks and begin to role up
their sleeves.
STACK
(to Zeke)
These guys will wipe you up. You need to
back down before this gets out of hand.
ZEKE
(to the boys)
Why don't you get back to the stage.
I'll be right with you.
Zeke straightens the club owners jacket.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Get back to the stage and start the next
set. This will only take a minute.
The perplexed band walks away leaving Zeke alone. They take
to the stage and strike up the rave up, 55 Ford.
MARINE I
Looks like your little chicken shit
buddies pussed out on you.
MARINE II
When we finish with you, they're gonna be
picking up little pieces all over Tokyo.
ZEKE
You boys have a nice day. In other words
split before you get hurt.
The Marine puts his hand on Zeke's shoulder turning Zeke
around to face him.
Zeke's had enough. As he turns around, Zeke kicks the Marine
in the balls. The Marine slowly sinks to knees
ZEKE (cont'd)
And so it was written the superior
warrior fights from the standing
position.
He smacks the Marine right in the forehead. He hits the
ground hard.
WHAP! He kicks all four of their asses very abruptly and
matter of fact with very few stokes.
All four Marines hit the floor hard and unconscious.
Zeke returns to the stage without the band missing a beat,
just in time for the vocal break.
ZEKE (cont'd)
(singing)
I was cruisin' out of town in my fifty
five Ford when here comes this Chevy with
his pedal to the floor. That Chevy
cruiser was really hard core. That car
was windin' knockin' on the door.
The unconscious Marines are being dragged out of the club by
the club's security.
ZEKE (cont'd)
His Chevy cruiser had a little on me and
his eyes in the mirror was all I could
see. That's when I started to hit the
gas. He wasn't about to let me pass.
Kyoko manages to look up past her book and glances toward
Zeke. She sadly smiles at him. He's taken back.
ZEKE (cont'd)
I told my baby I didn't have a Cadillac
car. She said oooh weee honey I love you
just the way you are. I said sit back
pretty Ôcause he won't get the best of
me. That cat, he won't get the best of
me.
Stack takes a solo and the song ends.
ZEKE (cont'd)
That's it for tonight folks. We'll be
back next week. Same time. Same bat
channel.
The finale. A drum role. The song ends.
Zeke starts to walk over to Kyoko's table. Some of the
dancers speak to Zeke as they pass. Others slap him five.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Ooze me.
A really cool Westside Story handshake.
DANCER
Obbly ooh.
DANCER II
Great show.
DANCER III
See ya next week Zeke.
Zeke speaks to Kyoko in Japanese.
ZEKE
(in Japanese)
Finally a connection!
He sits down.
Kyoko flips through some pages of an English dictionary.
KYOKO
Rude, discourteous or impolite, usually
deliberate. Without culture, learning or
refinement. Rude, illiterate peasants.
Rough in manner or behavior.
ZEKE
So you do speak English?
KYOKO
So far, I understand every damn word you
say.
KYOKO (CONT'D)
(in Japanese)
You speak Japanese?
ZEKE
(in Japanese)
A little.
(in English)
But, your Japanese is much better than my
Japanese. Come to think of it, your
English is also much better than my
Japanese. So maybe it's better that we
speak English.
(pause)
So, what do you think of the band?
KYOKO
I'm sorry I wasn't paying attention.
But, it seems you are very popular.
ZEKE
Hey, these people are my world. It's
what I live for. To entertain. To put
smiles on their faces. Think about it,
they trade in their hours each week for a
hand full of pocket change. They come
here to forget all there troubles. They
want to have a great time.
They want to let down their hair, dance,
drink and have a ball. They expect a
great show and I intend to give Ôem one.
KYOKO
Music must be the love of your life?
ZEKE
Well, the jolly clown wears a painted
smile, hiding beneath its sad countenance
a lowly frown.
KYOKO
I don't understand?
ZEKE
I'm a sad clown. A puppet. They pull my
strings and I make them smile.
Kyoko smiles.
ZEKE (cont'd)
See.
KYOKO
You are a great entertainer.
ZEKE
And you get all that from staring into a
book? Is that book kinda like a magical
crystal ball? Are you a soothsayer? A
fortune teller?
KYOKO
Soothe say yer? Fortune teller?
ZEKE
Nevermind. It's just a lot of blah,
blah, blah.
He's now fidgeting.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Wanna get out of here?
KYOKO
I'm sorry. I cannot.
ZEKE
Why not?
She looks at her watch.
KYOKO
I must go now.
ZEKE
The nights still young.
KYOKO
Really, I must go.
She stands.
ZEKE
Then I'll see you tomorrow night?
KYOKO
I'm not sure I can make it.
She begins to exit.
ZEKE
When can I see you again?
She exits the club.
EXT. THE JUMPIN' JOINT - CONTINUOUS
Another long line of people again, wait to enter the club.
Kyoko flags down a taxi.
Zeke rushes out the door. A few Japanese girls start to
cling on Zeke asking him for his autograph.
ZEKE
(to Kyoko)
I never got your name?
KYOKO
I never gave it to you.
She gets in the taxi and the door closes.
The taxi starts to pull away from the curb.
Suddenly the taxi stops and the window roles down slightly.
Kyoko puts a slender red, silk card out the window.
Zeke runs over and takes it.
The taxi pulls away.
ZEKE
(reading the card)
Kyoko.
EXT. KYOKO'S APARTMENT - NEXT DAY
Zeke stands knocking at Kyoko's door. She smiles and exits.
EXT. OPEN AIR MARKET - NEXT DAY
Zeke and Kyoko stroll through an outdoor market place. Zeke
takes in the sights, he's astonished.
ZEKE
Wow! What a breath of fresh air. You
know since I've been in Tokyo this is the
first opportunity that I've had to
actually see the city. Work, work, work.
That's all I do. Nobody would believe
that practicing and performing is hard
work. It take hours of rehearsals to put
on a good performance. But, I wouldn't
trade it for all the tea in China.
KYOKO
How long have you been a performer?
ZEKE
Ever since I was a kid. My mother played
piano in bars and every once in a while
when she couldn't find a baby-sitter,
she'd drag me along. I got real familiar
with some of the songs and just for
laughs they'd sit me on the piano, toss
me a microphone and let me sing a number
or two. Man, they'd really get a kick
out if it.
KYOKO
Tell me more about yourself.
ZEKE
You're good at asking questions but, you
don't reveal much about yourself. I feel
like I'm a contestant on the mystery
dating game.
KYOKO
What else do you do in Tokyo besides make
the young girls scream?
ZEKE
Ha! Well, I study Kendo. Are you
familiar with this?
KYOKO
So you are a sword fighter? That
explains last night.
ZEKE
Wait. I don't want you to get the
impression that I go around clubbing
everyone that crosses my path. Those
guys asked for it, they deserved what
they got. And I obliged. Maybe they
learned a good lesson.
Zeke stops and buys a bundle of fresh picked flowers. He
hands them to Kyoko.
KYOKO
Thank you.
She smells the flowers.
KYOKO (cont'd)
Japan is a beautiful country. To fully
appreciate it you must see it through the
eyes of the Japanese. Have you heard of
the city of a thousand temples? It is
the most beautiful place in all of Japan.
ZEKE
Will you take me?
KYOKO
It is far away.
ZEKE
I don't care. We can drive.
KYOKO
Zeke, I don't have a car.
ZEKE
That's not a problem, I can rent a car.
KYOKO
That way we can see the entire
countryside. There is no sight as
beautiful as the cherry blossoms blooming
in the spring.
ZEKE
Yes, I've got to see that. I want to see
everything. Everything there ever was
to see from the beginning until the end
of time.
He stops and in a very poetic fashion as only Zeke could
speak...
ZEKE (cont'd)
I want to walk a million miles till I
split the sky. I want to dream ten
thousand dreams until I blow my mind. I
want to feel the heights of passion wash
me like the pouring rain. I want to
shake my hand with God as I scream his
name. I want to see the universe. I
want to know everything there ever was to
know. Until the end of time.
At this point, he is surrounded by passerby's that stop to
listen to him articulate like a sidewalk poet.
He realizes he's got quite an audience for himself.
ZEKE (cont'd)
See, just a puppet on a string.
Kyoko animates pulling strings on a puppet. Zeke plays
along.
Zeke does a back flip and lands gracefully on his feet. Zeke
takes a bow.
The market crowd claps.
Kyoko laughs as Zeke takes Kyoko's by the hand as they run
away from the small crowd.
EXT. YOYOGI PARK - A LITTLE LATER SAME DAY
High-end low rider cars are hydraulically being raised and
jerked about.
The crowd is large and into it. An extremely hip and cool
crowd.
Rockabilly rebels, do there teddy boy thing with chicks in
poodle skirts.
A Japanese Rockabilly band plays the Elvis song, Long Black
Train.
Zeke and Kyoko are eating ice cream as they check out the
happening park environment.
A Rockabilly guy recognizes Zeke.
ROCKABILLY GUY
Hey, it's Zeke Taylor!
The Rockabilly guys all take notice.
ROCKABILLY GUY (cont'd)
Hey, Zeke man, sing us a song.
ZEKE
(sheepishly)
No. Not today.
The crowd jumps in prodding Zeke toward the stage. They then
pick him up over their heads pass him along until they place
him onto the stage.
The crowd is shouting various 1950's American classic song
titles from artists like Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Gene
Vincent and Eddie Cochran.
REBEL
Blue suede shoes!
REBEL II
Boy named Sue!
REBEL III
Race with the devil!
REBEL
Summertime blues!
Zeke shakes hands with the band singer and whispers a song
title in the guitarists ear.
The guitarist passes the word on to the other musicians.
Zeke takes the microphone and starts to sing the song
Fujiyama Momma.
ZEKE
(singing)
I've been to Nagasaki. Hiroshima too.
The same I did to them baby. I can do to
you. Cause, I'm a Fujiyama Momma and I'm
just about to blow my top. Fujiyama
yama. Fujiyama. And when I start
eruptin' ain't nobody gonna make me stop.
Kyoko smiles at Zeke shaking her head and covering her eyes
in slight embarrassment.
ZEKE (cont'd)
I take a drink of saki. Smoke dynamite.
I chase it with tobacky and then shoot
out the lights.
Zeke acts like he's shooting six-guns at the crowd. The
rebel rockers fall backward like they're shot full of lead.
The teddy boys with their pompadours and chicks with poodle
skirts are dancing with great style.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Cause, I'm a Fujiyama Momma and I'm just
about to blow my top. Fujiyama yama.
Fujiyama. And when I start erupting
ain't nobody gonna make me stop.
Zeke hands the Japanese singer the microphone. He sings the
same verse in Japanese.
SINGER
(in Japanese)
I take a drink of saki. Smoke dynamite.
I chase it with tobacky and then shoot
out the lights.
Zeke jumps off stage and grabs Kyoko pulling her toward the
center dance floor.
Since she is extremely shy, he finally manages to get her to
dance with him.
Zeke quickly jumps back up on the stage and joins in.
ZEKE AND THE SINGER
Cause, I'm a Fujiyama Momma and I'm just
about to blow my top. Fujiyama yama.
Fujiyama. And when I start erupting
ain't nobody gonna make me stop.
Guitar solo and the rockin' crowd gets really wild.
EXT. KYOKO'S HOME - LATER SAME DAY
Zeke walks Kyoko to her door.
KYOKO
Thank you for a wonderful day.
ZEKE
You know, you know everything about me
and I don't know a thing about you.
Kyoko avoids the statement.
ZEKE (cont'd)
So, tell me over dinner. Tell me
everything there is to know.
KYOKO
Dinner? No not tonight Zeke. I cannot.
ZEKE
Why not?
KYOKO
Because I cannot. Zeke, there are many
fish in the ocean.
ZEKE
Yes, but there is only one enchanted
Mermaid that conceals the sacred pearl.
Zeke moves in close to Kyoko as she opens the door.
ZEKE (cont'd)
I know that I'm supposed to be real
smooth but, I'm not very good at this.
He moves in to kiss her.
She moves back.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Ouch! OK.
He points to his cheek.
She's a bit embarrassed.
She acts as if she doesn't want to, but she leans in to kiss
his cheek. He turns his head and catching her by surprise,
he kisses her lips.
She playfully slaps his arm.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Gotcha. Umm, tastes like candy.
KYOKO
I taste like candy?
ZEKE
Like a box of sweet chocolate. If it was
Valentines Day I would buy you the
largest box of chocolates and after you
ate the entire box I would give you the
deepest most passionate kiss.
KYOKO
You know on Valentines day, in Japan it
is the women who give away Valentine
Hearts.
ZEKE
If it was Valentines Day would you give
me your heart?
KYOKO
It is not Valentines Day.
ZEKE
We could pretend it was.
KYOKO
Goodbye Zeke.
ZEKE
Not goodbye. Goodbye means forever.
Kyoko closes the door.
EXT. KYOKO'S APARTMENT - CONTINUOUS
Zeke walks out of Kyoko's building.
One man, SHOE SHINE MAN is getting his shoes shined while he
reads a newspaper. The shine boy swiftly buffs out his
perfect black and white, two tone shoes.
The man lowers his paper and watches Zeke as he continues on
his way.
INT. ZEKE'S ROOM - LATE THAT NIGHT
Water runs in the tub.
Zeke is preparing for a bath.
There is a knocking at the door.
He gets up and walks to his door through the darkness of his
room.
He peaks through the peep hole and sees no one there.
ZEKE
Who is it?
No answer.
He turns to walk away. There is another knock.
Again turning he peeks through the peep hole again.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Who is it?
No answer.
He opens the door and a group of guys tackle him to the
floor.
The light switches on.
It's the boys in his band.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Jesus, you almost gave me a coronary.
STACK
What? It's our only night off and you're
going to spend it cooped up?
Smutty lifts Zeke off his feet.
SMUTTY
Up you go!
Smutty carries the fully clothed Zeke to the tub and drops
him in with a big splash.
STACK
Get cleaned up, we're taking you out on
the town.
Smutty tosses his arm around Chieko.
SMUTTY
Yeah, we're going to hit some of those
nasty little clubs that specialize in
deviate behavior.
CRASH
And we wouldn't think of leaving you
behind.
ZEKE
Not tonight fellas. I'd love to hang
out, but I'm just not up to it.
CRASH
(to Chieko)
It's the chick.
SMUTTY
(to Chieko)
It's always a chick mate.
CHIEKO
Checkmate?
CRASH
We're talking women not games.
STACK
What woman doesn't play games?
Chieko raises his eyebrow.
SMUTTY
Especially games that specialize in
deviate behavior.
STACK
Hey man, check out Chico's new threads.
Chieko's decked out in a Zoot Suit with black and white wing
tip shoes, and greased hair.
ZEKE
Hey! Man, Chico, you forgot to take off
your shoes.
STACK
It's not hey man Chico.
(Stack throws his arm around
Chico)
It's Chico and the man.
CHIEKO
I told you, my name is not Chico, it's
Chieko.
CRASH
Whatever.
STACK
C'mon, we'll have the time of our lives.
Chico's been showing us the sights.
Now it's time for us to show Chico our
appreciation.
CHIEKO
How many times must I tell you. It's not
Chico. It's Chieko. Chieko!
EVERYBODY
Whatever!
INT. JAPANESE STRIP JOINT/BUTTERFLY CLUB - LATER SAME NIGHT
A Japanese female stripper walks down a catwalk as she
performs her dance routine. Money is tossed about the stage
as whooping and hollering is heard offscreen.
The boys surround the end of the stage.
She removes her bra and playfully droops it over the head of
the drunken Chieko.
ALL THE BOYS
(chanting)
Chico! Chico! Chico! Chico!
INT. ZEKE'S ROOM - NEXT MORNING
Rough night, the fully dressed Zeke is passed out on his bed.
The phone rings. He groggily reaches over and picks it up.
ZEKE
Hello?
(he jumps up a bit surprised )
Kyoko? Today? Now! I wouldn't miss it
for the world.
(pause)
I'll get a car and be right over.
EXT. STREET - LATER SAME MORNING
Zeke makes a turn in the rented Toyota onto Kyoko's street.
A car horn blares. This catches Kyoko's attention. She is
sitting on her front steps watching this terrible driver.
It's Zeke. He's forgotten that in Japan they drive on the
(wrong) side of the street.
Cars swerve as they lay on their horns to get out of the way.
A DRIVER roles down his window.
DRIVER
(in Japanese)
Hey! You! You're driving on the wrong
side of the road.
Zeke pulls up to Kyoko's home.
Kyoko's laughing having witnessed the driving fiasco.
Zeke exits the car.
ZEKE
(bowing)
Your chariot awaits.
Kyoko gets up and runs the other way .
KYOKO
I am not so sure it is a good idea that I
ride with you.
ZEKE
It's not my fault you Japanese drive on
the wrong side of the road.
KYOKO
I think you would have a hard time
convincing the Japanese of this.
ZEKE
OK, then you drive.
KYOKO
Zeke, I don't know how to drive. I have
never learned.
He opens the driver side door as she walks toward the car.
Kyoko is surprised that he would do this.
KYOKO (cont'd)
You are such a gentleman.
ZEKE
Hop in, it's easy. I'll teach you.
KYOKO
You'll teach me?
Hesitating she gets in.
ZEKE
There's nothing to it. It's like playing
Nintendo.
Zeke runs around to the passenger side and jumps in.
He shows her the main parts of driving.
ZEKE (cont'd)
This is the steering wheel. This is the
brake for stopping, the gears, forward
and reverse and the gas pedal, it makes
you go.
Kyoko moves the wheel.
KYOKO
Steering.
She pushes the brake.
KYOKO (cont'd)
The brake.
Kyoko checks out the gears.
KYOKO (cont'd)
Forward and reverse.
ZEKE
Turn the key.
Kyoko turns the key and the car starts.
She pushes the gas and the engine accelerates in idle. It
startles her.
KYOKO
The gas peddle?
ZEKE
Right. The last thing you need to do is
take it out of park.
She reaches over and takes it out of park.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Great! Now put it in drive and slowly
give it some gas.
She puts it in drive and slowly gives it some gas. The car
moves forward.
KYOKO
(squealing like a child)
It's moving!
ZEKE
Now steer the wheel and keep it on the
wrong side of the street.
The car moves slowly down the street.
ZEKE (cont'd)
That's pretty good. You're doing great.
I think your a natural. OK, you're
coming up to a stop sign. Now, slowly
apply pressure to the brake.
She accidentally hits the gas.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Not the gas. The brake. Hit the brake.
The car barrels through a stop sign. One of the cars in the
traffic swerves to avoid an accident.
Car horns blare.
Kyoko swerves to avoid some bicyclists, they both scream and
finally the car crashes into a tree.
Wide-eyed they look at each other.
Cherry blossoms fall from the tree onto the roof of the car.
INT. TRAIN - DAY
Zeke and Kyoko are seated on the bullet train as the train
whizzes by the countryside.
EXT. COUNTRYSIDE - LATER SAME DAY
In the distance lies an ancient golden Japanese temple.
Zeke and Kyoko walk beneath a field of white cherry blossoms.
There are many ancient temples whichever way they turn.
A group of monks walk past the couple as they begin to walk
down a long flight of steps. There are many pagoda's of
burning incense.
EXT. ANCIENT TEMPLE - CONTINUOUS
Zeke and Kyoko walk amidst the ruins of a Temple.
They walk past many birds in bamboo cages that hang from tree
limbs. The song of the birds fill the air.
Elderly men sit on park benches playing chess, card games and
mahjong.
Elderly couples in pairs Waltz with happy reminiscing faces.
EXT. BRIDGE - A LITTLE LATER
Zeke and Kyoko cross a wooden bridge over serine and smooth
water. As they head toward the little Swordsmith shop they
stop on the crest of the bridge.
There are many Choi fish that slowly swim in a lily pad
covered pond.
KYOKO
Did you know Choi fish live to be two
hundred years old or more?
ZEKE
Yes, I have heard that before. Maybe we
can learn a lesson from them.
KYOKO
And what is that lesson?
ZEKE
Observe how slowly they move. How
patient. They're not in a hurry to go
anywhere. Watch as they swim in one
direction very deliberately and then turn
and go back to where they started. Even
in the way they feed they are very
patient. If another fish is fortunate to
get the morsel of food before they
arrive, they know that as it has been in
the past there will be another
opportunity for them to feed again.
KYOKO
They are so free. Free to move about.
Free to stay in one place, or free to
leave.
ZEKE
They are not so free.
KYOKO
What do you mean?
ZEKE
They're trapped in this pond.
Zeke and Kyoko watch as the fish swim about. Suddenly, the
steady rhythm of a gong is heard.
Many monks patiently converge into one of the temples.
ZEKE (cont'd)
This has been the best day of my life.
KYOKO
I have one surprise left for you.
The monks continue into the temple.
EXT. PARK - SUNSET
A huge sun sets in the skyline.
EXT. KYOTO CITY CENTER - SUNSET
Ten bicyclist's ride very modern bikes.
Pachinko balls fall.
Young modern Japanese sit on a row of high-tech motorcycles.
Young girls pass on the sidewalk with very modern/western
fashion.
An old building that hints at old Japan sits nestled amidst
many modern structures in the middle of Kyoto city center.
Kyoko leads Zeke by hand into an ancient shop where swords
have been handcrafted for hundreds of years.
INT. SWORDSMITH SHOP - CONTINUOUS
The sound of stone beating medal into shape can be heard.
The scratching of a grinding stone on medal is heard.
There are a few sword APPRENTICES in various stages of sword
making. The tools of the trade are the same that have been
used for hundreds of years.
Flames shoot from an oven as a Swordsmith pulls red-hot
swords from the flame.
Zeke walks past several ancient swords that hang on a wall or
on are on display.
MR. MUSASHI, sits at a grinding stone where he is busy
working on a sword. He is an elderly man who wears a small
pair of wire frame glasses.
KYOKO
(in Japanese)
Uncle. This is my American friend that I
told you about.
Zeke does not understand.
KYOKO (cont'd)
Zeke, this is my Uncle. He is a master
sword maker.
MR. MUSASHI
(bowing)
Pleased to meet your acquaintance.
ZEKE
(to Kyoko)
Uncle?
Kyoko gestures yes.
ZEKE (CONT'D)
Wow! I'm truly honor.
Mr. Musashi stands and patiently walks behind a counter,
bends and comes up with a long wooden box.
He hands the box to Zeke.
MR. MUSASHI
This is a gift.
ZEKE
A gift?
Kyoko smiles.
MR. MUSASHI
A gift from Kyoko.
Zeke doesn't know what to say.
He opens the box which reveals a most beautiful handcrafted
sword.
ZEKE
I don't know what to say. This means so
much to me.
(to Kyoko)
Thank you.
(to Mr. Musashi)
Thank you very much. I am speechless.
Like a child reaching into a box of sweet chocolates, he
reaches for the sword.
Removing it from it's sash, he grasps at it, getting familiar
the weight and balance.
He takes a few swipes into the air.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Very balanced. Light. Comfortable grip.
He performs a sword Kata with beautiful motion and grace.
His style is very impressive.
Mr. Musashi claps his hands.
ZEKE (cont'd)
This is one of the nicest things anyone
has ever done for me.
Mr. Musashi bows.
ZEKE (cont'd)
I am honored.
He bows.
EXT. TRAIN - LATER SAME NIGHT
The bullet train with Zeke and Kyoko smoothly flies down the
tracks heading back toward Tokyo.
INT. JAPANESE RESTAURANT - LATER SAME NIGHT
Tokyo.
A waitress places bowls of Udon noodles in front of Zeke and
Kyoko.
Zeke takes a bite of his noodles and leaves his chopsticks
stuck into his bowl.
KYOKO
Zeke, what are you doing? You must not
do that.
Kyoko pulls his chopsticks out of his bowl and places them on
the edge.
ZEKE
Did I do something wrong?
KYOKO
In Japan, to leave chopsticks in your
bowl is considered bad luck.
ZEKE
I don't get it. Why?
KYOKO
This is only done for someone who has
passed away.
ZEKE
Oops.
She reaches over and lifts a bottle of wine and begins to
fill his glass. He stops her.
ZEKE (CONT'D)
Kyoko, what are you doing? You must not
do that!
KYOKO
Did I do something wrong?
ZEKE
In America a gentleman always fills a
ladies glass.
He lifts the bottle and fills her glass. They exchange warm
smiles, sipping their wine.
KYOKO
Oops.
ZEKE
Kyoko, You know, I still don't know
anything about you.
KYOKO
You know what you know.
At this point of the evening Kyoko watches a group of men
enter the restaurant. One of them is the Shoe Shine Man who
is wearing his polished black and white shoes.
She nervously tries to hide herself and observes as these men
are ushered to a table.
The men are seated.
The shoe shine man notices Kyoko looking back at him.
KYOKO (CONT'D)
(to Zeke)
May I be excused please?
Without another word being said she abruptly gets up and
leaves the table. Zeke stands for her.
A FLOWER WOMAN comes to the table.
FLOWER WOMAN
(in Japanese)
Flowers.
Zeke purchases one red rose and places it on the table where
Kyoko would find it.
Zeke waits and waits, Kyoko never returns. He feels more
snubbed than concerned.
The waitress brings the bill to the table.
Not looking very happy he stands, hands some money to the
waitress.
He starts to leave and stops, he turns back to the table,
picks up the rose and hands it to the waitress.
He exits, disappearing into a crowd of people.
INT. KENDO SCHOOL - NEXT DAY
The class is practicing Kendo, striking down at a feverish
pace.
The school's very old bearded Japanese KENDO MASTER wants to
practice with Zeke.
Zeke is a bit overwhelmed at the man's age and does not want
to look like a jerk to the other students.
Zeke repeats the movements he was practicing earlier with the
Master. Since the man is elderly, Zeke slowly goes through
each movement apprehensively.
The JAPANESE SENSEI stops Zeke.
ELDERLY MASTER
(to the Sensei)
How long has this one been practicing
Kendo?
SENSEI
The master wishes to know, how long have
you been practicing Kendo.
ZEKE
About fifteen years.
SENSEI
(in Japanese to the Master)
Fifteen years.
English subtitles.
ELDERLY MASTER
(acknowledging and in Japanese)
Ah! Is that as fast and strong as you
can attack?
SENSEI
(to Zeke)
The Master says, Is that the best you can
do?
Zeke strikes a little harder. The elderly master blocks each
shot.
ELDERLY MASTER
(in Japanese)
Faster. Full speed.
SENSEI
Better, now this time full speed.
Apprehensively, Zeke strikes harder. The elderly Master
blocks each blow and slowly places the sword on Zeke's neck,
slightly touching it.
SENSEI (cont'd)
That is better. Remember, always put
your whole heart and spirit into it.
English subtitles.
ELDERLY MASTER
(in Japanese)
The Bushido is the soul of old Japan.
The spirit of the Samurai is guided by a
strong code of ethics. In the past the
Samurai warriors were considered to be
honorable men on the same level as kings.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. BUSINESS MAN'S OFFICE - DAY
A BUSINESS MAN sits behind his desk while a YOUNG WOMAN
manicures his nails. He's surrounded by men who work for
him.
A Samurai sword sits nearby on display.
EXT. COURTYARD GARDEN - CONTINUOUS
A salt filled hand tosses the salt in a Sumo wrestling
circle.
SUMO WRESTLERS are busy training in the courtyard. Some sit
at short tables feasting while other are having their hair
done.
The Shoe Shine Man walks in front of Kyoko through the
courtyard.
EXT. BUSINESS MAN 'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
He opens the door to the Business Man's office.
Kyoko enters.
The Business Man gestures and all of his men, and the
manicurist exit, leaving the Business Man alone with Kyoko.
They speak in Japanese.
KYOKO
You have called for me?
BUSINESS MAN
You must not see this American man again.
KYOKO
Yes, I understand.
She turns to leave.
BUSINESS MAN
I am sorry for your loss. But, we do
have an agreement.
The Business Man sits alone.
EXT. JAPANESE PARK - DAY
A few years earlier.
Choi fish swim in a pond.
The Business Man and Kyoko look down into the pond.
The Business Man reaches into his coat pocket and hands Kyoko
a small box. She takes it and opens it. It is a very
expensive ring.
KYOKO
I cannot accept this.
She returns the ring to the Business Man.
BUSINESS MAN
I want you to be my wife.
KYOKO
You have done many things for me. And
for this I will always be indebted to
you. But, I am sorry. I do not love
you.
BUSINESS MAN
You speak the truth and for this I am
pleased. But, Kyoko you must not forget,
you are indebted to me. The decision is
yours.
He places the ring next to her.
He leaves Kyoko alone.
She looks down at the ring.
INT. THE JUMPIN' JOINT - NEXT NIGHT
Kyoko's table sits empty.
Zeke's back onstage with his band performing, Go Go Daddy Go.
The place is rockin' but Zeke's eyes are on the empty table.
ZEKE
(singing)
I went out late last night out on the
town. I found this real gone jumpin'
joint really gettin' down. Well, I had
me a look inside and right there before
my eyes was the prettiest platinum blond
that you ever did see. So I positioned
myself real close right next to her. And
she gave me a look a smile, then a wink
of her eye. And as I knelt to kiss her
hand, steps up this big ol' mean man and
I knew right then and there I was in a
terrible jam.
Zeke sees a young WOMAN that looks like Kyoko. The woman is
with another MAN. They sit at Kyoko's table.
ZEKE (cont'd)
I better run man run. She said don't you
go go daddy go. You got what I need and
I need it bad. You better run man run.
She said don't you go go go daddy go.
You got what I need now give it to me.
He's pretty bummed. Then the woman pulls her hair back and
it is apparent it is not Kyoko.
He motions to the band to end the song.
ZEKE (cont'd)
You got what I need now give it to me.
Stack takes it on out.
INT. THE JUMPIN' JOINT - A LITTLE LATER
Zeke sits in the bands booth sipping a Martini and stares
over at Kyoko's empty table. The club is long past closing.
SMUTTY
Hey, Zeke hold your head up.
STACK
We're all goin' out on the town and tear
it up. C'mon and be a part of it.
ZEKE
Not tonight, I just want to go for a
walk.
He slams down the rest of his Martini.
CRASH
Man, snap out of it. There are so many
fine women in this town. Just open your
eyes.
STACK
What next? Are you going to let some
chick get in the way of the band?
ZEKE
Ah, you don't understand.
He stands to leave.
STACK
I do know that crying over spilt milk
won't do you any good. It never does.
Zeke exits the club.
EXT. TOKYO NIGHTLIFE DISTRICT - CONTINUOUS
Zeke walks alone dejected. He vanishes into the neon jungle
of the Tokyo nightlife.
A huge television screen projects a moving picture image.
EXT. SHINJUKU NIGHTLIFE DISTRICT - CONTINUOUS
Zeke walks past four LADIES OF THE NIGHT. He does not take
notice of them.
A MONK hitting a brass steel bowl with a wooden mallet walks
past Zeke.
An entourage of well dressed men exit a building across the
street.
Zeke puts some money in a street beer vending machine.
Suddenly, from across the bustling street Zeke notices a
woman that appears to be Kyoko. She is being escorted to a
brand new black Mercedes Sedan.
The oldest man with her is the Business Man. He is
inebriated and seems to be slurring in Japanese a body
language that assures anyone of his sexual intentions.
The Business Man sleazily plays with a piece of rope running
it over her body.
It's obvious the other men with the Business Man are his
bodyguards. Four Body Guard types.
It appears that Kyoko is in some type of trouble.
ZEKE
(shouting from across the
street)
Kyoko?
No response.
It's apparent that she hears her name shouted and she
recognizes the voice.
ZEKE (cont'd)
(again shouting in a heightened
state)
Kyoko?
She does not acknowledge him.
His yells mesh with the sounds of the city.
Kyoko is ushered into the vehicle and it pulls away.
Zeke runs toward the vehicle as it slowly moves through the
crowded streets.
ZEKE (cont'd)
(shouting)
Kyoko!
Zeke runs over cars and pushes his way through the crowded
streets attempting to make his way to the Benz.
As he closes in on the vehicle he sees that her hands are
bound in an artistic web of rope.
The car makes a quick turn disappearing down an empty side
street void of traffic.
As Zeke reaches the streets corner the vehicle is gone from
view.
ZEKE (cont'd)
(wailing an animal noise)
Kyoko!
EXT. SHINJUKU NIGHTLIFE DISTRICT - CONTINUOUS
Zeke runs wildly through the streets.
He spots a POLICE OFFICER directing traffic and frantically
runs to him.
ZEKE
(in Japanese)
A girl, she has been kidnapped.
OFFICER
(very serious)
A girl, kidnapped?
Zeke tries to speak Japanese but his excited state leaves him
almost speechless. The officer pulls out a pad and begins to
take notes.
The traffic quickly gets out of hand.
OFFICER (cont'd)
What is this girls name?
ZEKE
Kyoko. She is very beautiful.
OFFICER
Kyoko. Just Kyoko? What is the rest of
her name?
ZEKE
I don't know.
He puts down his pad.
OFFICER
Where does she live?
ZEKE
I don't know the address. I've been
there. I can show you.
OFFICER
A girl has been kidnapped. You don't
know her name and you don't know where
she lives.
The officer walks back to the traffic and begins to direct it
again.
OFFICER (cont'd)
Do you know how many beautiful girls
there are named Kyoko in the center of
Shinjuku?
Zeke is left speechless as the officer returns to directing
the traffic.
Zeke takes off running back down the street to where he know
his friends will be.
INT. JAPANESE STRIP JOINT/BUTTERFLY CLUB - NIGHT
Zeke runs into the club.
The boys are sitting around the end of the stage while women
perform their sexual stage acts.
ZEKE
(out of breath)
I need your help. You got to help me!
There's something terribly wrong. Kyoko,
she's been kidnapped.
STACK
What are you talking about?
SMUTTY
Have a drink and calm yourself.
Smutty tries to hand him a drink. Zeke knocks it away.
ZEKE
I'm telling you she's in trouble.
CRASH
What happened?
ZEKE
I was walking down the street. I saw
Kyoko she was being dragged to a car.
Her hands were bound. She's been
kidnapped!
CRASH
Are you sure it was her?
ZEKE
Yes, I'm sure.
STACK
It could have been almost anyone.
SMUTTY
You need to get your mind off this girl.
CRASH
Really, first she snubs you completely.
And then she leaves you hanging, high and
dry.
STACK
You're all hung up on this one chick.
SMUTTY
Take a look at what surrounds you.
Forget about her.
The boys are sitting with many fine young woman.
EXT. OUTSIDE OF KYOKO'S HOME - LATER SAME NIGHT
A worried Zeke finds himself waiting for Kyoko outside of her
door.
Seemingly hours later the black Mercedes pulls up to the
curb.
Kyoko steps from the car. Kyoko begins to walk up some steps
that lead to her door.
She does not notice Zeke until she pulls her key and gets
ready to enter her apartment.
Zeke grabs her hand which has signs of rope burns on her
wrists. He's surprised.
ZEKE
Kyoko.
KYOKO
You must not come here again. I cannot
see you anymore.
ZEKE
I was worried sick about you. Where have
you been? I thought I saw you... I've
been going out of my mind. What's going
on?
KYOKO
(timidly)
You must go. Now!
She steps into her apartment. Zeke stops her from closing
the door.
ZEKE
Don't do this Kyoko. Talk to me. What's
going on?
KYOKO
(trying to feign coldness)
I don't want to see you anymore. Do you
understand now? Please, leave me alone.
Do not come back again. I don't want to
see you anymore.
She closes the door in Zeke's stunned face.
INT. KYOKO'S APARTMENT - NEXT MORNING
The phone rings.
Kyoko's answering machine.
KYOKO (V.O.)
(in Japanese)
Hello. Please leave your message. Thank
you.
ZEKE (V.O)
Kyoko, I know you're there. Please pick
up the phone. Please pick up if you're
home. I don't understand. I'm very
confused.
The machine hangs up.
The phone rings again.
KYOKO (V.O.)
(in Japanese)
Hello. Please leave your message. Thank
you.
The camera pans the empty room of Kyoko revealing some
suggestive subtle clues into the private life of Kyoko.
The camera finds Kyoko standing with tears (not yet fallen)
from her eyes as she listens to Zeke's voice.
ZEKE
Pick up the phone. Please pick up if you
are there. Damn it Kyoko.
He hangs up.
INT. JAPANESE STRIP JOINT/BUTTERFLY CLUB - NIGHT
Zeke's sipping Saki with the boys. He's obviously inebriated
and angered.
There are many females in various stages of undress dancing
on catwalks and makeshift stages.
ZEKE
Chicks, they're all the same. Man, I
feel like such a fool. Here I was going
out of my mind over her and for what?
For nothing. That's what.
Stack tosses a few bills toward one of the strippers.
STACK
(not drinking)
Zeke, it's high time you forgot about
this one chick.
The stripper bends down in front of Stack and picks up the
money.
CRASH
(eyeing one of the strippers)
You've been missing rehearsals.
STACK
That's not cool.
SMUTTY
Pull yourself together.
CHIEKO
We're recording in a few days.
STACK
C'mon, this is what we've been waiting
for. Are you going to let this
opportunity pass you by?
CRASH
Pass us by?
ZEKE
You're right. You're all right.
SMUTTY
Well, alright!
CRASH
Lets get out of here.
They exit into the street.
EXT. SHINJUKU NIGHTLIFE DISTRICT - CONTINUOUS
In a drunken stupor the boys stumble along the city streets.
They find a random, colorful flier advertising a sex club.
Club Fantasia.
EXT. CLUB FANTASIA - CONTINUOUS
STACK
Chieko, do you think you can get us in
this place?
CHIEKO
It's possible.
STACK
Then let's give it a try.
CRASH
What have we got to lose?
SMUTTY
What? More deviate behavior?
EXT. CLUB FANTASIA - CONTINUOUS
They find themselves entering the club advertised on the
flier.
INT. CLUB FANTASIA - CONTINUOUS
Once inside they realize they have stepped into a place that
specializes in sexual fantasies.
A club security BULLY stops them from entering.
BULLY
No Gaijin!
He does not let them pass.
CRASH
What's he saying?
ZEKE
He's saying we can't come in.
SMUTTY
Why can't we come in?
STACK
Because we're foreigners.
A STRANGE FELLOW comes over to them and introduces himself.
CHIEKO
(handing one of his cards to
the Strange Fellow)
These men are with me.
STRANGE FELLOW
Americans, you come with me. I show you
the time of your life.
CRASH
Hey, I'm Canadian.
SMUTTY
And I'm a brit.
STRANGE FELLOW
Yes. Yes. Americans follow me.
The boys are led through a myriad of a bizarre and twisted
world of sex and deviant nightlife. One JAPANESE BUSINESS
MAN is tied to a cross, while a woman in a NUN'S outfit beats
him with a cat of nine tails.
In another room, a stunningly BEAUTIFUL WOMAN with long
flowing hair and beautiful breasts revealed sit on a stool.
She is wearing a strap on dildo.
STACK
I'm not sure what my limit would be with
this one.
SMUTTY
(pushing Crash forward)
Get in there Crash, you're the anal one
of the lot.
CRASH
Her, no way!
They continue on stumbling with laughter.
In another room a Japanese SCHOOLGIRL is receiving her lesson
for the day.
SMUTTY
And let that be a lesson to you.
Another room reveals a well-endowed NURSE leading a CUSTOMER
into an examining room.
The boys are speechless at this point.
Some YOUNG GIRLS in revealing lingerie who are knockouts
smile at the boys as they continue on their journey through
this twisted, carnal and perverse journey.
Unknown to Zeke the boys follow turn and follow after the
girls.
He finds himself standing alone in front of three doors.
INT. ROOM - CONTINUOUS
There are three colorful doors that look like the game show,
Let's Make A Deal.
STRANGE FELLOW
Take your pick, door number one.
The door lights up.
STRANGE FELLOW (cont'd)
Door number two.
The door lights up.
STRANGE FELLOW (cont'd)
Or door number three?
Zeke looks around realizing he is alone.
STRANGE FELLOW (cont'd)
Take a chance. Pick one of these doors
and enter at your own risk.
Zeke scoffs and points to door number two.
It opens of its own accord.
The strange looking character pushes Zeke into the entry of
the door.
The door closes.
INT. DOOR NUMBER TWO - CONTINUOUS
Zeke finds himself in a dark room unable to see anything.
He stumbles forward and his eyes begin to adjust. He sees
something that is suspended in mid air in front of him.
His eyes slowly focus and it's a woman suspended by ropes, in
sexy black lingerie. She is bound in an artistic and
suggestive position and blindfolded.
He finishes his large bottle of Japanese beer and drops the
bottle.
ZEKE
I'd have you get me another drink but I
can see you're tied up at the moment.
He moves closer.
ZEKE (CONT'D)
My, my you're such a pretty little thing.
He moves toward her ear.
His index finger begins to trace down her forehead to her
eyes. The blindfold slips to where she can see.
His finger moves down ever so slowly toward her neck and past
her breasts to her stomach.
She slightly gasps in anticipation.
ZEKE (cont'd)
There was this man, he noticed a
beautiful woman sitting alone on a park
bench. He sat down next to her and
eventually moved closer and then closer.
Suddenly, he put his arm around her.
Startled, she moved away. PLEASE! She
cried.
Zeke's finger moves from her belly button downward toward her
love box, he detours not touching her most sacred spot and
moves his fingers toward her thigh.
ZEKE (cont'd)
After a while he moved in again. DON'T!
She cried as he touched her thigh. He
waited and waited and moved in ever so
close and gave her a kiss.
Zeke kisses her foot.
ZEKE (cont'd)
STOP! She cried aloud.
Zeke stops touching her feet he moves silently back toward
her head and slowly puts his lips to her ear once again.
ZEKE (cont'd)
It didn't take long...
He moves to the other ear.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Before he realized what she really meant.
What she really was saying.
The woman gasps.
ZEKE (cont'd)
Please! Don't! Stop!
He kisses her cheek and then softly bites it working his way
to her feet with soft and erotic bites.
He begins to bite inside of her legs and up toward her inner
thighs.
A close-up reveals tears beginning to well up in the corners
of the woman's eyes.
Kyoko's eyes.
KYOKO
No. Stop. Please.
Zeke stops. He recognizes the voice.
Zeke stands up and quickly removes the blindfold.
It's Kyoko.
His look of shock says more than words could ever say.
Kyoko turns her face away and begins to cry softly.
Zeke storms out of the room. He runs into the Shoe Shine
man.
ZEKE
Excuse me.
The Shoe Shine Man's eye's follow Zeke as he continues on.
INT. CLUB FANTASIA - CONTINUOUS
He's briskly walking to the front door when the fellas spot
him.
They race toward him just as he exits and continues on.
EXT. SHINJUKU NIGHTLIFE DISTRICT - CONTINUOUS
Zeke blazes down the street.
STACK
What's wrong?
ZEKE
Nothing.
SMUTTY
Nothing? You stormed out of there like
you just saw a ghost.
ZEKE
My eyes are completely open now.
CRASH
What are you talking about?
ZEKE
Let's just say I see things perfectly
clear.
CRASH
Why do you always talk in riddles?
Zeke stops.
ZEKE
Ok. I'll spell it out for you. It's
over. I've had it with this place. I'm
splittin'.
Stack grabs at Zeke's arm. Zeke pulls away.
STACK
So just like that. You've had enough.
You're quitting.
ZEKE
Just like that.
STACK
What a flake.
Zeke walks away.
ZEKE
Say what you want. They're only words.
STACK
Only words? And you? You thought I was
the user?
CRASH
C'mon Stack.
STACK
(to Crash)
No wait.
(to Zeke)
Maybe you need to go through the wringer
to really understand loss.
Zeke continues on and Stack runs up to him.
He grabs Zeke's arm.
Zeke loads up and stops short of hitting Stack.
Stack steps up into Zeke's face.
STACK (cont'd)
Now what? A little chop, chop, kick
punch?
Stack stares him down.
Zeke drops his fists. He slumps down and walks away.
STACK (cont'd)
(shouting)
We had it all.
Stacks storms off across the street.
CRASH
Stack, where are you going?
STACK
Back to hell.
He kicks over a trash can.
INT. SUSHI RESTAURANT - NIGHT
This bizarre restaurant caters to wealthy and eccentric
businessmen.
A WAITRESS carries a tray of saki. She passes through
several rooms where customers are eating in a dinner/meeting
atmosphere.
There are private rooms where NAKED WOMAN on their hands and
knees in various postures are being used as tables.
There are women in all manner of undress parading throughout
this establishment.
The waitress enters into a room where SEVERAL ASIAN MEN
appear to be having a meeting.
The waitress places the tray nearby. A NUDE WOMAN is being
used as a table while a sushi chef prepares the men's meal.
MAN I
(in Japanese)
My wife scorns me for the smallest of
matters.
MAN II
(in Japanese)
Oh, yes. I have the same problem. I
just bring her gifts and she quiets down.
MAN III
(in Japanese)
Yes, but after so many gifts, my wife has
gotten to the point where she expects me
to bring her a gift.
MAN I
(in Japanese)
My wife expects me to do something wrong,
so she has an excuse to go out and spend
too much money shopping.
They laugh.
The camera pans to the corner of the room where TWO NUDE
WOMEN are cowering in the corner.
MAN I (cont'd)
(in English)
Women, you can't live with them and you
can't live without them.
They laugh.
The camera continues to pan and it reveals Stack tied to a
chair with duct tape wrapped around his head.
Man I gestures for the LOOMING GIANT standing next to Stack
to remove the tape from his mouth.
With one quick stroke the tape is ripped from his lips.
Stack gasps for air.
MAN I (CONT'D)
(in English)
Have you had enough? Will you tell us
now?
STACK
Fuck you!
Stack struggles with the ropes that bind him.
Man I gestures for the tape to be wrapped back around his
head and over his mouth. It is.
The SUSHI CHEF uses a pair of chopsticks to artistically
arrange the sushi onto the woman's naked body.
MAN I
(to the men at his table, again
in Japanese)
Tough fellow this one. I would think by
now he would have shit his pants.
They all laugh.
The struggling sound of Stack gasping for air can be heard.
MAN II
(in Japanese)
My wife, I can handle. It is my
girlfriend that I have to watch out for.
MAN III
(in Japanese)
Once you sleep with them and they get the
keys to the BMW, it's all over.
They laugh.
The waitress fills their glass with saki.
They take a sip.
Man I gestures for the tape to be removed. It is.
Stack gasps.
MAN I
(in English)
I'm impressed. Really I am. Just tell
us where this Zeke lives and we'll let
you go.
They all laugh.
Stacks begins to laugh.
STACK
Shove it up you ass you son of a bitch.
I'm not telling you a goddamn thing.
They continue to laugh.
Man I gestures for the tape to be put over Stack's mouth
again.
Stack struggles for air.
Man I nods to the Looming Giant.
The Sushi Chef continues to carve out artistic morsels of
seafood.
The Looming Giant steps forward, takes the knife from the
Sushi Chef and then thrusts it into Stacks mouth. Blood
begins to drip from the opening as Stack gasps for air.
Man I rolls a large ball of hot wasabai mustard and lobs it
to the Looming Giant.
The Looming Giant then grabs Stack's head and shoves the ball
into his mouth and clamps his hand over Stack's mouth as he
struggles.
Mucus spews from Stack's nose and tears stream from his eyes.
The Looming Giant removes his hand.
STACK (CONT'D)
(spitting mustard sauce)
Oh, God. Oh, my God.
MAN I
Now will you help us?
STACK
You better kill me, Ôcause if you don't I
swear it, I'm gonna kill you.
MAN I
I grow weary of this game.
The Looming Giant slams the knife down between Stack's
fingers and starts to slowly draw near his index finger.
MAN I (cont'd)
I heard of this guitarist who could play
well with only two fingers. Ever heard
of this man?
MAN II
I believe he was of French descent?
STACK
Ok. Stop! Don't do it. I'll tell you
what you need to know.
INT. ZEKE'S HOTEL ROOM - DAY
There is a packed luggage bag by the entrance of Zeke's
apartment. The door is slightly opened as if he is ready to
leave.
Zeke's packing another bag.
Kyoko walks in.
KYOKO
Zeke, please don't go. I have something
to tell you.
ZEKE
It's a little late for that. I have a
plane to catch.
He doesn't want to hear a word she has to say as he continues
to pack his clothing.
KYOKO
Please listen to me. Soon you will be
gone and when you are ready to hear these
words then you will understand.
ZEKE
Understand? Understand how you deceived
me?
KYOKO
I did not mean to hurt you. Never did I
intend for this to happen.
Zeke picks up the sword that Kyoko gave him and steps toward
her to give it back.
ZEKE
I cannot accept this gift.
Tears well as she takes the sword, holding it close to her
breast. She bows her head as tears begin to fall.
KYOKO
My family, they were very poor. My
father borrowed money to start a small
business and fell into debt. He borrowed
this money from a very powerful man,
things did not go as planned. Then this
man began to bring me gifts, he fell in
love with me and he forgave my parents
debt. But, I did not love him and I told
him this. Still he proposed marriage and
when I did not accept, he would not let
me go. His love was blinded by jealously
and he forced me to work in his club to
pay back the debt.
ZEKE
Kyoko, why did you not tell me this until
now?
KYOKO
I did not know how to tell you. I felt
ashamed.
Zeke hugs Kyoko.
ZEKE
I am sorry.
KYOKO
And now you know everything.
The door creaks open.
The Business Man stands at the doorway. His tears co-mingled
with bitterness. He realizes he can never have Kyoko's love
now.
The Business Man enters Zeke's room with the Looming Giant,
the Shoe Shine Man and Man I.
BUSINESS MAN
(softly in Japanese)
Kyoko, it is time to go.
KYOKO
(timidly in Japanese)
Yes, I know.
BUSINESS MAN
(roughly in Japanese)
Then why are you still standing there?
Kyoko bows her head submissively and looks back at Zeke one
last time.
She starts toward the door. Zeke stops her by grabbing at
the sword.
ZEKE
Kyoko, you don't have to go. You're not
a slave.
He looks sternly at the Business Man.
ZEKE (cont'd)
(to the Business Man)
The best knot uses no rope. And no one
can untie it.
(to Kyoko)
Remember the story of the puppet, Kyoko
you have the power to cut the strings and
be free.
KYOKO
Zeke, you don't understand. If I don't
go, these men will hurt you.
With his right hand Zeke grabs the grip of the sword. With
his left hand he pushes Kyoko behind him. While Kyoko
continues to hold onto the scabbard the sword is unsheathed.
Zeke points it toward the Business Man.
ZEKE
Well, then let's rock Ôn' roll.
The thugs step forward but the Business Man gestures for them
to keep their ground.
He simply smiles at Zeke. He accepts his challenge and
exits.
KYOKO
Zeke, this is no game. These men will
kill you.
Zeke picks up the phone.
ZEKE
(in Japanese)
I need a taxi.
(in English to Kyoko)
You're coming with me.
EXT. ZEKE'S HOTEL - CONTINUOUS
The taxi arrives honking it's horn.
Zeke and Kyoko cautiously exit the building and hurriedly
enter the taxi.
The taxi pulls away.
KYOKO
(in Japanese to the Cabby)
To Narita airport. Hurry!
Zeke and Kyoko take hold of each other hand and grasp
tightly.
The taxi continues on.
EXT. STREET - CONTINUOUS
The taxi turns down a street and stops.
The taxis path is blocked by a black Mercedes Sedan.
Suddenly they are surrounded by a sea of many black Sedans.
The CABBY becomes very concerned as the doors open to each of
the Sedans.
A wave of Business Man slowly converge on the taxi.
The Cabby speaks aloud to himself. (A Shinto prayer.)
CABBY
(ad-lib a Shinto Prayer)
He turns to Zeke.
CABBY (cont'd)
Get out. Get out of my cab you fuckin'
fuck. Get out. Get out.
Zeke goes to exit the taxi and Kyoko grabs him, pulling him
back.
KYOKO
(screaming)
No!
Before Zeke can exit the taxi, the door swings open abruptly
and Zeke is yanked out by the Looming Giant and the Shoe
Shine guy. There are too many guns drawn for Zeke to resist.
The door slowly swings open to the black Mercedes Sedan,
which directly blocks the path of the taxi. In the backseat
sits the Business Man.
The Business Man does not even look toward Zeke or Kyoko. He
gestures with his hand out the window for her to come to him.
Kyoko exits the taxi.
KYOKO
I knew it would come to this. Goodbye
Zeke.
The Shoe Shine Man walks Kyoko to the Mercedes Sedan. She
enters. The car door closes and the Mercedes pulls away.
The Business Man's Looming Giant stands closest to Zeke.
The Shoe Shine Man steps toward Zeke with his gun drawn and
puts it to Zeke's head. He pulls the hammer back.
The Shoe Shine Man pulls the trigger.
Click, no bullets. The Shoe Shine Man smiles and pulls his
gun away from Zeke's head.
He then pistol-whips Zeke once in across the forehead with
his gun.
Zeke goes out.
Zeke's thrown into the trunk of one of the Sedan's and it
pulls away.
The taxi driver sits motionless as the rest of the Sedan's
quickly pull away.
INT. BUSINESS MAN'S SEDAN - CONTINUOUS
Kyoko sits in cold silence as tears fall from her eyes.
The Black Sedan moves along the city streets.
The Business Man places his hand on her lap and pats her leg
as if to soothe her aching soul.
EXT. FISH MARKET - NIGHT
There is a furious bartering and auctioning of freshly caught
fish. Fish are tossed to and fro from barterer to purchaser.
Zeke awakes in a pile of fish carcasses. He has a gash in
his forehead and covered in fish slime and scales.
He stumbles his way out of the slimy pile of fish.
The frantic fish selling and bartering continue as Zeke
stumbles to his feet.
He groggily walks away as fish carcasses are being tossed
every which way to the highest bidder.
EXT. ZEKE'S APARTMENT - A LITTLE LATER
Zeke stumbles through the courtyard.
The Little Old Lady is frightened by Zeke's appearance.
INT. ZEKE'S APARTMENT - CONTINUOUS
Zeke rushes into his room. His belongings are scattered and
the room is in disarray. His sword is shoved down through
his suitcase.
He grabs at the sword and pulls it out of the suitcase. He
turns to rush out the door.
The beaten and bloodied Stack falls into his arms.
STACK
You've got to get out of here. They're
after you. They're coming to get you.
Zeke drags Stack into the room and to the bed.
The Little Old Lady enters the room carrying a pan of hot
water and a cloth.
Stack lies almost motionless as the Little Old Lady begins to
clean him up.
ZEKE
(to the Little Old Lady in
Japanese)
Thank you.
Zeke rushes out the door.
INT. CLUB FANTASIA - LATER SAME NIGHT
The door flies open into the dark night club atmosphere.
Zeke stands wielding his sword.
He knocks over everything in his path. As he continues past
the entry way, he knocks over a display of expensive XO
Cognac bottles, select wines and champagnes.
The alcohol spills across the floor.
As Zeke enters, the Strange Fellow backs into a dark corner
and places a call on a portable phone.
STRANGE FELLOW
(nervously in Japanese)
The American has returned.
Zeke moves from room to room, throwing open doors and
startling customers and female employees alike as he shouts
Kyoko's name.
ZEKE
(shouting)
Kyoko!
EXT. CLUB FANTASIA - CONTINUOUS
The Business Man's henchmen arrive in several black sedan's
as patrons and employees spill out onto the street.
INT. CLUB FANTASIA - CONTINUOUS
Zeke continues to run from room to room.
He reaches a room, throws open the door.
The Business Man is kneeling at Kyoko's side and dipping a
paint brush in a container of water and onto a block of dried
ink.
Kyoko, is barely dressed and is bound to a table with
Japanese calligraphy painted all over her body. The Business
Man ignores Zeke's presence and continues to paint Kyoko.
The Business Man is naked except for his sumo type underwear
garment. Tattoos adorn his entire body.
Zeke points his sword at the Business Man.
Two of the Business Man's men rush Zeke from behind. Zeke
quickly takes them out using his fist and feet.
More of the Business Man's men converge.
Zeke moves to the table and with blinding speed and animal
rage he cuts the ropes that bind Kyoko.
The Business Man's men enter the room ready to do battle.
The Business Man stands.
ZEKE
(to the men)
This is not your battle. Leave now and
you will not get hurt.
Zeke stands with sword in hand trembling.
Two or three men lunge at Zeke, he strikes cutting one across
the arm, one across the leg and the other across the chest.
He kicks and punches these three men down and hard.
The other men motion to move forward.
Zeke lunges at the Business Man and thrusts the sword at his
throat.
BUSINESS MAN
Impressive.
ZEKE
We just want to leave. We don't want any
trouble.
BUSINESS MAN
It's too late for that.
ZEKE
Then I guess you're coming with me.
Zeke presses the sword to the Business Man's throat. The
Business Man gestures to his men. They slowly back out the
door.
Zeke uses the sword to force the Business Man to exit the
room backward. Zeke throws his arm around Kyoko pulling her
tightly to him.
The Business Man backs out of the room with a dead stare on
his face.
They reach the front door as the Business Man's men slowly
follow at a safe distance.
The Strange Looking Fellow stands holding a candle. Zeke
makes one stroke with the sword cutting the lit candle in
half and cutting the Strange Looking Fellow's tie at the
knot.
A frightened male customer who wears a traditional Japanese
robe stands nearby and backs against the wall.
Zeke reaches out and yanks the robe off of the man.
ZEKE (cont'd)
(to Kyoko)
Put this on.
He tosses the robe to Kyoko. She puts on the robe as they
continue out the front door.
EXT. CLUB FANTASIA - CONTINUOUS
Zeke exits the club still holding Kyoko and the sword at the
Business Man's throat.
The street is now very crowded.
Out of the crowd, three thugs attack Zeke with various
weapons. With a series of three lightening fast slashes he
attacks the men.
The men's blood spatters onto the shoes of the Shoe Shine
Man. He looks up at his boss. Zeke quickly places the sword
back at the Business Man's throat.
Silently, the three men fall like stalks of wheat.
Zeke yanks the Business Man's DRIVER from the driver seat of
the black sedan.
ZEKE
Kyoko, get in. You're driving.
KYOKO
Me?
ZEKE
You!
KYOKO
But, I cannot.
Zeke pushes Kyoko in the driver seat and slams the door.
The sound of the car's ignition turning and starting up is
heard.
Zeke and the Business Man enter the Sedan. It surges
forward. (Tires screeching.)
The erratically driven vehicle comes to a halt at the end of
the street.
The Business Man is forced out of the car. The black sedan
tears off again.
The erratically driven vehicle races down the street.
The Business Man's men are now standing in front of the club.
BUSINESS MAN
(yelling back to his men in
Japanese)
Idiots. After them!
His men race toward their cars.
EXT. CLUB FANTASIA - CONTINUOUS
A bunch of the Business Man's thugs speed down the street
after Zeke and Kyoko.
A car stops for the Business Man. He gets in.
The chase ensues through the streets of Tokyo. (The car
driven by Kyoko, a woman who has never driven a car before.)
EXT. TOKYO STREETS - CONTINUOUS
The Business Man slaps the driver.
BUSINESS MAN
(in Japanese)
Hurry up! You drive like a woman.
The chase continues throughout the streets of Tokyo. Kyoko
drives erratically but manages to keep the vehicle on the
road.
Kyoko has a red light. She speeds past the light, swerving
to avoid traffic.
One of the Business Man's Sedans gets wrecked in a terrible
crash.
The car driven by Kyoko careens down a street that is blocked
off by a crowd of people celebrating the fertility festival.
Kyoko and Zeke exits the sedan and begin to run through the
crowded street on foot.
The Business Man and his men arrive.
BUSINESS MAN (cont'd)
(in Japanese)
After them!
Some of the Business Man's men begin to pursue them on foot.
EXT. STREET - CONTINUOUS
A procession of people march through the street.
A large penis which is carved from the log of a tree is being
carried as if it is a float in the Rose Bowl parade.
Men with little wooden penis' on sticks also seem to be
jabbing them toward women's belly's.
As Zeke and Kyoko run...
ZEKE
What's going on?
KYOKO
It's our fertility festival.
ZEKE
Why are they pointing those sticks at the
women's bellies?
KYOKO
So the gods will smile down on the women
and give them children.
The procession continues on. Zeke and Kyoko flee trying to
shake off the Business Man's men.
EXT. DRY DOCK - CONTINUOUS
Zeke and Kyoko race through a fishing community and pass many
docks that house both modern fishing fleets and Japanese
Junks.
In the midst of the chase they end up trapped into a dead end
surrounded by water.
Welders continue to work as sparks cascade downward like
fiery rain, bouncing off of the pavement below.
The first car that reaches the dock has four men in it.
The FOUR MEN pull out swords and walk up to Zeke.
They surround him. Zeke pulls his sword. His hand is
trembling and the men see this.
They laugh.
ONE OF THE MEN
You tremble like a child.
ANOTHER MAN
Give up the girl and we will be swift in
removing your head.
A sword battles ensues and Zeke takes them all out swiftly.
Zeke sees four more men running toward him.
Zeke and Kyoko race onto a huge dry docked cargo ship.
The head Business Man vehicle pulls up.
The head Business Man steps out and walks to the bodies of
his dead men.
He looks up to the dry docked ship and sees four more of his
men dangling from ropes above like puppets.
The Business Man's Looming Giant covers him with a robe as
they deliberately take their time.
The Shoe Shine Man walks slowly toward him.
SHOE SHINE MAN
(in Japanese)
They're on the ship.
LOOMING GIANT
(in Japanese)
They're trapped.
BUSINESS MAN
(in Japanese)
(to the Shoe Shine Man)
Take some men and go that way.
(to the Looming Giant)
You take your men and go that way.
(to the remaining men)
The rest of you come with me.
INT. CARGO SHIP - CONTINUOUS
Zeke and Kyoko are running down a long teakwood deck. Four
of Business Man's men appear before them from the deck above.
ONE OF THE MEN
Trouble is all around you.
Zeke grabs Kyoko by the arm and turns to run the other way.
The FOUR MEN jump down from the upper deck and pull various
weapons.
They lunge at Zeke.
He struggles with the men. Zeke manages to toss one of the
men to the deck below.
The battle continues and Zeke manages to take out the
remaining men.
Zeke and Kyoko run up a flight of stairs where they find the
Looming Giant and his men waiting. They race toward another
escape route.
The Shoe Shine Man and his men come from the other direction,
blocking off any escape route.
The Shoe Shine Man wipes the blood from his shoes.
LOOMING GIANT
(in Japanese)
I should have killed you the first time.
ZEKE
(in Japanese)
Now's your chance to redeem yourself.
Again trembling Zeke raises his sword.
One man lunges forward and Zeke drops him with one slice.
The sound of one man clapping his hands together is heard.
The head Business Man is impressed.
The Business Man is handed the sword that was on display at
his office. He points it at Zeke.
BUSINESS MAN
Let's rock Ôn' roll.
The Business Man mocks the trembling of Zeke as the two
circle and prepare to battle. His men laugh at Zeke.
A realistic sword battle ensues between Zeke and the Business
Man.
Zeke disarms the Business Man of his sword. The Business Man
lunges at Zeke latching onto Zeke and his sword as they
struggle. The Business Man manages to disarms Zeke of his
sword.
A hand to hand combat ensues. They wrestle each other to the
ground.
The Business Man rapidly crawls across the ground toward his
sword. Zeke crawls after him.
The Business Man manages to grab his sword just as Zeke bites
down hard on his leg.
The Business Man releases his grip of the sword and screams.
BUSINESS MAN (cont'd)
No!
The Looming Giant is now standing over Zeke with Zeke's sword
held high above his head ready to strike down and deliver the
death blow.
The Business Man picks up his sword and stands.
BUSINESS MAN (cont'd)
(in Japanese to the Looming
Giant)
Stop!
Zeke stands.
The Looming Giant tosses Zeke his sword.
Now both Zeke and the Business Man raise their swords with
trembling hands.
Both men continue to battle, hands shaking, they kick and
claw at each other as they fight for their lives.
Both opponents are injured as the sound of clashing swords
smash together again and again.
Finally the Business Man has his sword knocked out of his
hand as he's driven to his knees.
For a brief moment it appears Zeke may deliver the final
blow.
Zeke raises the sword high above his head. The Business Man
bows down to honorably accept the deathblow.
Zeke steps back and lowers his sword.
ZEKE (cont'd)
(humbly)
Consider Kyoko's debt paid.
The Business Man nods once in agreement.
Just as they turn to go the Business Man reaches out and
takes Kyoko's hand.
BUSINESS MAN
(in Japanese)
Kyoko, I am sorry. Go in peace.
The Business Man gestures for his men to let them go.
The remaining Business Man's men part leaving a path for Zeke
and Kyoko to pass through.
DISSOLVE TO:
Zeke and Kyoko exchange vows in a Japanese traditional
wedding.
The camera pulls out into a Long Shot of Zeke's band, The
Swingin' Kings performing at the wedding.
There are images of both traditional Japanese dress and
Contemporary guests dancing in swing fashion on the dance
floor.
FADE OUT.
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