Casey Makes a Mixtape (2025) Movie Script
1
- The zoom gives you rock...
-The zoom...
-...for the senses.
-For the senses, for the senses,
for the senses...
The lows that evolve
into highs that pierce.
Feel the rock
on 98 KCEW,
Dallas-Fort Worth.
KCEW.
Yeah. Hi, can I request a song?
In case you're wondering,
this top ten list
is not in order.
Just my favorites right now,
which I've been trying
to record forever.
- And if there are liner notes
on this tape, it would tell you
that it doesn't have
a theme or tell a story.
It's not a concept album,
it's not a mixtape,
other than they're just
-my favorite songs
for the summer.
-I'm a Pepper
-He's a Pepper
-She's a Pepper
We're a Pepper
Wouldn't you like
To be a Pepper too?
Everyone rejects me
Livin' in my best dreams
And I've come to realize
I can see it in your eyes
You're out to get me
- Yeah, I know
You're out to get me
Everyone rejects me
You know I don't like
you messing with my music.
I know.
What are you looking for anyway?
You obviously don't have it.
...know you're out to get me
Only need one more
to finish my mixtape.
Into thinking
Ya needed me too
And I see I lost the bet
Hey, kiddo, you ready?
-What is wrong with you?
-Do I have to go?
-Yeah, I said
What is wrong with you?
-Come on.
Mm, hmm, hmm, hmm
Everything
That's part of you
Is part of me, babe
Ooh, every little thing
You do
Is like a dream, babe
Ooh, every little thing
You do
You're number one, babe
...not only love, yes
Mm, mm
When you whisper that
I'm everything you need
I put your sweet lips
Next to mine
-I must confess...
-We're almost there.
You're gonna have
a great time, I know it.
...the sweetness
I feel inside
-When are you coming back?
-Three weeks.
And I'm not going to let you
ruin this trip for me.
I think he's gonna
pop the question.
Oh! I hope he does it
while we're in Paris.
And don't worry, he's not trying
to replace your father.
Come on.
Well, we know it's not
what you're used to, Casey,
but we hope you like it.
It's perfect.
Uh, just make yourself at home,
move stuff around,
whatever you wanna do, just, uh,
- just don't touch my medals.
- Well--
Don't, don't move
too much stuff around.
Thank you, Mimi and Poppy.
Y'all are going to have
so much fun!
Be good.
Okay, well, I will see y'all
in three weeks!
Thank you!
- Well-- -See you later.
- Mm, be careful.
Bye.
"Shane!
Come back!
Shane!
Come back, Shane!"
You've never seen Shane?
1953?
Alan Ladd. It-- it's a classic!
You're missing out.
Would you like something to eat?
Oh, uh, no, thanks.
Okay.
Oh! Uh, well,
like your grandfather said,
why don't you
just make yourself
right at home?
And we can play UNO later
if you like. Hmm?
Just remember,
your grandfather hates to lose.
We're not the best
At what we do
Not even number two
You could walk a mile
In our shoes
But what good would that do?
Because we do what we do
Yeah, we're a lot like you
Sometimes our course is true
- Other times it's askew
We're well aware
Of you standing there
Looking like you've heard this
All before
We're well aware of you
Standing there looking like
You've heard this all before
I brought my own phone.
- Right tool for the job,
you know?
I mean, you wouldn't catch
Eddie Van Halen
using keyboards on stage,
so I'm not using
a rotary dial phone.
Being a broke teenager,
I can't afford to buy records.
Vinyl is much better,
of course, so it's...
- ...cassette tapes
and the radio...
...and a lot of waiting around.
The Police, old man,
never seemed to get
that one recorded.
Oh, good morning!
Uh, morning.
Sorry about the TV.
The tube went out on our Zenith,
so we're using
that one right now.
Hmm. Well,
I'll have your grandfather
take a look at it
after he gets done
cleaning out the camper.
You know, you really should have
a look at that, by the way.
It's a 1980 Bigfoot
and he's very proud of it.
Why don't I make you
some breakfast
and then you go on out and play?
I'm 13, Mimi.
I don't really play anymore.
You know what I mean.
Just go outside,
find some kids and do something.
It's summertime!
I might just hang out
in my room, if that's okay.
Yeah. Suit yourself.
...when you're walking
Or talking...
...the 1981 Toyota Celica G- isn't a sporty car.
It's two sporty cars--
Turn it up, turn it up
So loud that
You can't take it
Turn it up
You that new girl?
Hey!
Where are you going?
Home.
Back to California?
No.
I live here now. Texas.
I've never seen a girl
on a skateboard before.
That's dumb.
Try and do some tricks
like Rodney Mullen.
-Who's that?
-Pro skateboarder.
-California's cool.
-He's from Florida.
I'd like to be
a professional skateboarder
when I grow up.
-Or maybe a wrestler.
-You can do anything
when you put your mind to it.
It's what my dad
always said, anyway.
Did your dad die?
-Who told you that?
-My mom is friends
with your grandma.
Great.
Let's go ride.
Or are you chicken?
Chicken!
Dude, what? Not a chicken.
What that even mean?
Ew, gross! Don't touch
the fountain part
with your mouth,
you'll get the flu!
How old are you?
Thirteen.
I'm almost 13.
So you're 12?
Yeah.
Do you like the Von Erichs?
Is that heavy metal?
No, the wrestlers on TV.
-I don't watch wrestling.
-You're missing out!
I mean, "the Iron Claw!"
Who's your favorite band?
Uh, mine is Rush.
-I like Journey.
-Yeah, Neal Schon!
- He's an underrated guitarist,
I'll give you that.
But I really think he did
some of his best work
for Santana.
He was only 17 then,
but not really a fan of Santana.
I'm into Queen,
and The Police are super cool.
Did you know that
Stewart Copeland had
his own punk band
called Klark Kent?
"Klark" with a "K."
Yeah, I'm actually making
a mixtape right now.
I need one more song
to finish it.
What song?
"Don't Stand So Close to Me"
by The Police.
Hold on.
You don't like Rush? I mean,
Neil Part on the drums.
I mean, odd meters
are impressive and all,
but you can't dance to it.
And it's Peart, by the way.
But no, I'm not a fan
of Neil Peart or Rush.
Give me Bonzo any day.
John Bonham?
Zeppelin?
Hammer of the Gods!
Isn't he dead?
Yeah, but his music lives on.
Same with your dad.
What about him?
Isn't that why you're here?
Because... he died.
No.
Oh!
Sorry, Poppy.
Ah! My doctor says
I'm not supposed
to drink these anymore.
Oh, okay.
You in Vietnam or something?
I wish.
I was too old for that one.
World War II.
I was stationed in,
uh, northern France.
Uh, saw your medals.
You like my RV?
I guess.
I tell you what. Uh--
I'll make you a deal.
Y-- you just keep
this little beer thing
between you and me and, uh,
I'll let you come in here
any time you want,
play your music
or whatever you wanna do.
Just keep this between us.
So, you're saying,
"Don't tell Mimi."
That's exactly what I'm saying.
-Deal.
-Sun never really goes down
- Earth turns around
And around it
Stars are so far out
And Venus and Mars
Make it hard
To remain on the ground
- The Moon doesn't shine
On its own...
- Casey, honey?
-Shows up at night Your reflection...
Yeah?
Dinner's almost ready.
-Thanks, Mimi.
-Um... honey,
the next time you go someplace,
please let me know.
I mean, I-- I didn't have
any idea where you were.
Oh, sorry about that, Mimi,
I was just riding my skateboard.
Oh, that's great! Just,
just let me know
next time, okay?
Oh! Fun!
I know I'm only 13,
but I'm pretty mature
for my age.
Or at least, that's
what my therapist told me
after my parents got a divorce.
When I was seven,
my soccer coach told me
to kick the ankles
of the other team
or even elbow them
in the ribs to get the ball.
But I didn't.
I mean, we were seven.
When I was nine,
my best friend's dad
took us to a dinner
and had a roadie
in the car with him.
Not the kind of roadie
that sets up guitars
and the amps at concerts.
The kind who drink.
Just scotch and water.
Or at least,
that's what he told the cops
when he got pulled over
for weaving through traffic.
Or the time a few years ago
when my mom got pulled over
for speeding,
and not sure why,
but the cop searched her car.
And what did he find
in the glove box?
A loaded pistol.
It was only a .22,
but the cop called it
a Saturday night special,
whatever that is,
and took the gun
and my mom to jail.
This is the first time
I'm spending any time
at my grandparents' house,
so admittedly,
- I don't know the rules.
- Casey, dinner's ready.
Be right there.
But when you think about it,
neither do most parents
or grandparents.
Well, I hope you're getting
all settled in
to the room and all, I mean.
I assume you like pot roast.
- I, uh--
- Well, of course
she likes pot roast.
What's not to like
about pot roast?
Would you let her answer?
Tell her, Casey,
you like pot roast.
Your mother
always loved pot roast,
so I'm sure you do too.
Yeah. Pot roast is okay.
See, I know my granddaughter.
And how about green beans?
Well, of course
she likes green beans.
Her mother always liked
those too.
Or was it her dad?
You know, when they first
got married, they used
to eat over here a lot,
and I remember
your dad or your mom
used to like green beans,
- I can't remember which one, I--
- Oh,
thanks for the dinner,
but I'm not really that hungry.
May I be excused?
Mm-hmm.
I forgot.
- What--
- Quit talking
about her parents.
Oh, hey, Mimi,
I'm going out to ride.
Okay, sweetie, have fun!
You okay?
Yeah, I'm fine.
Hey, uh, you wanna go swimming?
-You have a pool?
-It's at a friend's house.
I don't know.
I have to ask my grandmother.
You can swim, right?
I can swim. Took lessons
from these gay ladies
when I was like five or six.
They lived in this nice house
and had a pool.
Why were they gay?
I don't know.
It was just something
my mom told me later
when I was older.
You see them kiss?
No, I saw them swim.
-You like it?
-Are there some little kids
coming over or something?
Well, maybe
your grandmother will like it.
Well, I do like it!
You're never too old
to be a swinger.
Oh, well, it's just
a silly old joke,
and I do like the swing.
I'm going swimming
and forgot my swimsuit.
-Whose pool?
-Some friend of Craig's.
Oh, I met this neighbor kid
named Craig.
Says his mom knows you.
He also said you told her
about my dad.
Oh-- yes, Craig.
Well, he-- h-- he's a nice kid,
and his mom shouldn't
have told him that.
I'm sorry, I-- I was just in a--
Can you just take me
to the store?
Well, why don't you just borrow
one of my old swimsuits?
They used to be about your size.
Cannonball!
Ooh, ooh
Ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
Today's Tom Sawyer
He gets high on you
Da-da, da-da
I don't really know the song!
Da, da, da-da
He gets by on you
Da-da, da, da-da, da-da
- Ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh...
Ew, are you peeing?
What? No!
You know that if you pee
in a pool, there's a chemical
that will make a red ring
float around you?
You don't like to swim?
Don't have a swimsuit.
I'm Carrie, friends with Craig.
Casey.
Isn't that a boy's name?
Hey, what the hell?
What are you kids doing?
This is private property.
Get out of here!
Craig told me that was
a friend of his house.
It was,
but they just moved.
I'm gonna kill 'him.
Oh--
He likes you, you know.
"Likes me," likes me?
Yeah, that's what he told me.
He sent you?
No, he didn't send me!
I've known him
since we were little kids.
We should hang out sometime.
Making mixtapes may look easy,
but let me assure you, it isn't.
Not only do you have
to call the radio station,
- make a request that has to be
in their song rotation...
...then wait
for that song to play,
which requires
a ton of patience,
and often doesn't even happen.
But you also have to have
great coordination and timing.
Let me explain.
Hit the record button too soon,
you get the DJ blabbing
over the song,
but hit it too late
and you've missed
the first part of the song.
Then it's not worth
recording at all.
I've been working
on my technique
for several years
and I'm pretty close
to perfecting it.
Casey, telephone.
I got it!
Mimi, hang up, I got it!
- Sorry.
- Hello?
Hey, Casey, kiddo! How are you?
Uh, Mom,
is everything all right?
Everything's good.
Um, but listen, hey,
this call is costing
your grandmother a fortune,
so I'll be quick.
Hey. Looks like someone
had a change of heart.
I think she likes it.
Mm.
You wanna talk?
- I can't believe
she called collect.
That's your mother.
She told me
she's staying longer.
-Until mid-July.
-Oh, don't worry, you'll be back
in time for school.
Yeah, we'll see about that.
Mother's always been unreliable.
Yeah,
we prefer to say she's...
-...unpredictable.
-Oh, I'd say
she's very predictable.
Mm-hmm, she's
always been that way,
ever since she was
about your age.
Listen, Casey, I-- I know
you don't really
wanna be here...
...but we're glad you are.
You play?
So close!
- Yes!
- It's match point.
Borg verses McEnroe.
Tension fills the air.
Borg readies his serve.
McEnroe waits.
Borg wipes his brow...
...tosses the ball...
...and serves!
Whoo! Yeah!
Going for a kind of
plectic, antique chic look?
Something like that.
It's cool.
Not actually, but thanks.
Well, I think it is.
And anyway, according to Craig,
it's only for a few weeks.
You and Craig talk a lot.
Yeah, I guess we do.
You make all these?
Yep.
You a tomboy?
Never really thought about it.
You listen to hard rock,
make mixtapes,
ride skateboards--
- I've got a boy's name.
- I mean,
yeah, no offense.
Your parents divorced?
Yeah.
Mine too.
It sucks.
I try to look at it as positive.
And I get
twice the Christmas gifts.
You know,
two sides of the family.
I'm staying for at least
half the summer now.
What happened to a few weeks?
My mom decided to extend
her European stay
with her boyfriend,
soon-to-be fianc, that is.
He's in the military
and got additional leave time,
so they're taking
a longer vacation.
-Your mom doesn't work?
-She's in between jobs
at the moment.
That's the real reason
she went on this trip.
Let me guess,
you don't like him.
Nope.
Can't you go stay with your dad?
I assume that's him
in the photo.
That's...
...not possible.
Hey, got an idea.
- Baby don't get off
The phone
Baby don't leave me alone
Baby, I'm stuck in a cone
I'm begging you, you, you
- Baby, you should win an award
Baby, you should get on aboard
I've never seen
so many records in my life.
Pretty cool, huh?
Uh, can I tell you a secret?
I've actually never been
inside a record store.
I mean, I've looked
through the window of one,
but never actually been in one.
What? Why?
Never had any money.
You like Journey?
Yeah, why?
- What are y--
what are you doing?
- If you don't like Journey,
-I'll take something else.
-Put it back!
I don't want to steal anything.
You're not
stealing anything, I am.
- Dude, put it back!
- -You're not fun enough.
Put it back!
-Put it back.
-Whoa! Whoa, whoa, whoa!
Careful there.
You break it, you buy it.
- Yeah, sorry.
I'm kind of clumsy.
-Oh, you work here?
-Yeah, system manager.
Uh, part-time, anyways.
I'm in a band.
Do you wanna buy that?
No. No, no, no,
we're just looking.
For anything in particular?
What do you play in your band?
I'm a singer,
I don't play any instruments.
Uh, kind of like,
um, David Lee Roth.
Oh, that's cool.
Although, you know,
he did play acoustic
in "Ice Cream Man,"
side two,
their self-titled first album.
-I didn't know that.
-Yeah, and I think
he also played acoustic
on Women and Children First,
but I can't remember for sure.
Oh, so you're looking
for some Van Halen?
No. Actually, I'm looking
for Zenyatta Mondatta.
- That's from The Police.
- Yeah, yeah,
I know who they are.
All right, follow me.
Yeah, I really dig The Police.
You know, I wish they'd make
a concept album, you know?
They've got such a unique sound.
Here, this one was a return.
Here we go. Be careful with it.
All due respect,
I love The Police,
but when it comes
to concept albums,
Pink Floyd wins.
I mean, you can't really
beat Animals,
although The Wall comes close.
-Agreed.
-I have no idea
what you guys are talking about.
I can't afford it.
You know a lot about music
and you have really good taste,
especially for a little kid.
Thanks.
You're welcome.
Uh, do you have the single
"Don't Stand So Close to Me?"
That's really what I need.
Nah, can't keep it
on the shelves.
Oh, have you tried recording it
off the radio?
What?
-Hey, when's your birthday?
-August, which is always sad.
-Birthdays aren't sad.
-Yeah, but summer ending is
and school starting is.
You should ask
for The Police album
for your birthday.
Or, I don't know,
maybe you want these?
I can't believe you.
What? It's no big deal.
They've got more.
-You should put 'em back.
-And get arrested?
No, but, uh, I don't want 'em.
I mean, I dig Foghat.
Did you know that
they got their name
- from playing Scrabble?
- No.
Yeah, or at least I think so,
but I'm not into Loverboy.
Hey, I like Loverboy.
I'll give 'em to Craig then.
He'll appreciate
my kindness and bravery
in the face of danger.
You gonna eat your meatloaf?
I thought you said
you like meatloaf.
Sorry, I thought
you were talking
about the singer.
What singer?
Meat Loaf.
He's an actor and a singer.
He's in that movie
called Roadie.
"The band makes it rock,
but the roadies make it roll."
Hmm. Well, um,
if you're not gonna eat it,
then just give it to me.
I'll eat it.
It's all yours.
I gotta work
on my mixtape anyway.
Oh. I wanted to ask.
Hypothetically speaking,
if someone stole something
and you knew about it,
-would you turn 'em in?
-Who stole something?
Uh, n-- no one.
It's hypothetical.
Nobody likes a snitch.
Don't listen to him.
It would depend
on who did the stealing
and what they stole.
Like I said before,
nobody likes a snitch.
Got it, Poppy.
Thanks.
You like meatloaf?
I'm a fan.
The only real way
to listen to music
is with headphones.
Although these aren't the best,
but you still obviously get
much better sound
than from the jam box speakers.
I've actually always wanted
a home stereo system
with tower speakers,
but that's not happening
anytime soon,
so headphones are
the next best thing.
Not only does the music
sound great,
but it drowns out
all other noises in your house.
I especially like to wear them
when my mom yells at me.
Can't hear her at all,
which is actually better
than the best sounding music,
when I think about it.
Just one more song.
KCEW.
-Hi, can I request a song?
-Sure, what'd you wanna hear?
-Uh, "Don't Stand
So Close to Me" by the--
-The Police. Yeah, got it.
-What's your name?
-Casey.
I'll try to get that on for you.
Do you know when-- Uh--
Hello? Are you still there?
What are you doing here?
It's the middle of the night!
It's actually only midnight.
Isn't that
the "middle of the night"?
Do you wanna
sneak out or what?
I don't wanna get in trouble.
Your grandparents
are asleep, right?
Yeah, they go to bed at,
like, 9:00.
Uh, but I'm recording this song.
Oh, yeah. The Police song.
Actually, I'm sure
I missed it by now.
I fell asleep.
Well, get your shoes on then!
Let's go!
Carrie and I played tennis
here the other day.
She told me.
Wow, you guys really are,
like, best friends, huh?
What? No! I'm, I'm not
best friends with a girl.
Oh, sorry to disappoint.
No, that's not what I mean.
I'm kidding.
Did you like the singles
she gave you?
Which singles?
Two 45s she gave you as a gift.
Uh, Foghat and Loverboy.
Oh, yeah.
But... those weren't a gift.
I paid for those.
Paid for them?
Well, my mom did, so yeah.
-Why?
-No reason.
Are we meeting someone?
No, it's midnight.
I don't know anyone out here.
My dad always says
nothing good happens
after midnight.
We should probably hide.
Ugh. I hate smokers.
My mom smokes.
Used to flush her cigarettes
down the toilet.
-Really?
-Yeah, until one day
she caught me
and I got whipped
like I've never
been whipped before.
Your mom spanks you?
Uh, not anymore,
but yeah, she used to.
My mom will say, "Wait until
your father gets home for work"
and then belt city happens.
You actually call it belt city?
My dad does.
In my mom's defense,
I didn't realize
how much cigarettes cost.
Darn things are expensive.
You know, I don't think
that guy is smoking a cigarette.
It smells of skunk.
Yeah, skunk weed.
How the hell do you know
what weed smells like?
My older brother, he smokes them
when he goes to concerts.
You've been to concerts?
One, ZZ Top at Reunion Arena.
My dream is to go to a concert.
There's someone else coming.
Hey, man, where you been?
What are they doing?
Did they see us?
I don't think so.
-Oh, crap!
-What?
I'm pretty sure
-we're witnessing a drug deal.
-No way.
Yes way!
Let's get out of here.
Hey!
-That was fun.
-Fun?
Yeah!
Mimi, what--
What are you doing up?
Well, I had
the same question for you.
I-- I... uh, was--
I don't know
how you kids do these things.
Got me crazy.
I got up to go the bathroom,
it happens, you know, a lot,
when you get older.
And I saw you light on
under your door
and I thought, naturally,
I'd come check on you.
Naturally.
Now it's your turn.
I was recording a song,
fell asleep,
then Craig knocked
on the window.
It was only midnight.
You remind me
so much of your mother.
It's astonishing.
Honestly,
you look just like her.
You act just like her.
You know, she used to sneak out
a bunch when she was a teenager.
Hmm. Oh, yeah,
she thought she was so smart.
Didn't think we knew.
And first, uh, we didn't.
But then, later on,
we definitely did.
We told her not to do it, but...
but ultimately,
we decided not to punish her,
uh, uh, maybe that was wrong,
I don't know.
But I'm not
gonna punish you either. Mm-mm.
I'm your grandmother.
I have done
the parent thing once already.
Besides... you're a good kid.
I told you you reminded me
of your mother,
and that's true.
You do.
But between you and me,
and Craig, if he's
still standing outside
that window, listening...
...you are so much better
than your mom.
Now get to bed
before I change my mind.
And don't you go out
this late again,
you understand?
Hi, is Casey home?
Casey, honey,
you got company.
- Hey.
- Hey, yourself.
Did you record the song?
Oh... I fell asleep.
Ah, bummer.
It's almost noon.
Best to get moving.
I had a late night.
I've snuck out three times.
Once, my older sister got
our mom's car keys
and just drove us around.
- Does she have
a driver's license?
- No!
And the car was
a stick shift too.
- I bet we stole it
half a dozen times.
I'm not allowed in anyone's car
without an adult.
Me either.
So, uh, I got an idea
of how you could get
The Police album.
Is it legal?
Yeah, it's totally legal.
Okay. What?
Have you gone to a pawn shop?
I'm not pawning anything.
- Where the sun beats down
Like a cattle brand
No sign of water
But you quench my thirst
You're the only one living
And still you burn
You're a sight
To see, so fierce...
Sorry if I made you mad,
I didn't--
I shouldn't
have acted like that.
No way of knowing.
Knowing what?
My mom once pawned
pretty much everything we own,
including this jam box.
I know a guy
who pawned his guitar.
He said it was a great way
to get a loan,
then you can buy back later.
Yeah, it was her idea,
but not how it works in reality.
Well, you obviously got
your jam box back.
Yeah. My dad bought it
back for me.
...just flowers...
So, what's up with your dad?
Is he dead or what?
Craig thinks he is.
He's not dead.
Is he in a coma?
...I wanna hold you
-I wanna hold you close...
-He's in prison.
Oh!
Wow. Okay.
How long?
Until I'm 25.
-So, pretty much forever?
-Yeah, a long time.
What'd he do?
He didn't kill anyone,
if that's what you're wondering.
Yeah, I kind of was.
One of my favorite places
in the whole world
is an arcade.
You don't have to think
about anything
other than blowing stuff up.
You don't have to think about
what your dad did or didn't do.
He's innocent, by the way.
Takes a lot of quarters
to play games.
I actually have a jar
in my dresser back home,
and every time
my mom buys something,
I ask her for the change.
-You should use that money
to buy the album.
-I don't have it with me.
And that's my arcade money
anyway, not my savings.
-Priorities.
-Exactly.
I got some change
from my grandparents' couch
for this outing.
And Mimi gave me some quarters
-from her purse.
-Your grandma's great.
Yeah, she is.
-No!
-Ooh!
There's no going back.
Now you run on home
to your mother and tell her...
...tell her
everything's all right...
...and there aren't
any more guns in the valley.
Shane.
Hey kid, you got a postcard
from your mom.
...you're hurt!
I'm all right, Joey.
You go home to your mother
and your father...
...strong and straight.
And, Joey... take care of them.
You get in trouble
the other night?
I heard you talking
to your grandma.
No, she was cool.
She's not gonna tell
my mom... right?
-Doubt it.
-Why didn't you invite me
to sneak out?
I don't know.
I do.
Casey and Craig,
sitting in a tree.
K-I-S-S-I-N-G--
Ew, please!
I-- I was just bored.
I am pretty boring.
No, that's not what I mean.
Craig's got a crush!
Shut up! That's not true.
-Yeah, it is.
-I heard that.
I got a postcard from my mom.
Now she's saying
she won't be here until
right before my birthday.
That's right before Labor Day
and school starting back.
At this rate,
I may never go home.
-Maybe you should
just stay here.
-Who knows? I might.
Let's take her to the garden.
I'm not sure she's ready.
She's ready.
Lift my shoulders back up
Like I never lost
And pretend it's right
- I made amends
But I can't see light
It's bending through me
Into the night
I made ya holy
It wasn't right
You told me
I don't have to decide
You hold my hand
Like it's the last time
-I hold it tightly
And never mind
-Mind...
-Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
-What are we waiting for?
-Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
-What are we waiting for?
Oh, oh
Oh, oh
- I used to go fishing
with my dad a lot
when I was younger.
He actually once hired us
a fishing guide.
Talk about a weird job.
This guy would take you
out on his boat
and show you
the best places to fish.
Well, if you've ever
been fishing,
you know that that's hard to do,
so you end up
sitting around all day,
maybe getting
a few bites here and there,
but rarely actually
reel in a fish.
But... when you do,
it's a joyous feeling.
It can't really be
expressed in words,
you've waited all day,
and then bam, you get that bite.
So, you cast the lure
into the water
and your heart starts pumping
as you yank it back
and set the hook.
You reel and reel,
slowly at first,
then faster
as you feel it fight.
Then, you bring that prize
towards the boat
and your dad readies the net
as you pull the fish
out of the water.
Sometimes, after all that,
it's just a tree branch,
not a fish at all.
Then you have
to start over again or...
...try something different.
Sometimes I wanna know
If everything is real
It could all be in my head
It's the thing
That makes you feel
Hey, there.
Back for that Police album?
Oh, hey. No, just browsing.
Cool.
Oh, hey, that friend of yours,
she isn't here with you, is she?
-No, why?
-Just remembered
she was looking for that, uh,
five-finger discount.
What?
The record she put
under her shirt.
Oh, that.
She was just joking around.
I know, I'm just kidding.
She ended up buying
some other ones anyway.
Sh-- she bought some records?
Yeah, I can't remember,
a couple 45s.
Loverboy and Foghat.
Let me know if you need
any help, alright?
Do you need something else?
Do you need any help
around here?
-Like a job?
-Yeah.
How old are you?
How old do you need to be?
Well, 14 is the minimum
working age in Texas,
or at least I think
that's right.
But I know kids
younger than that
can throw papers.
-Paper route?
-Yeah.
I'm only here for the summer.
I'm looking
for something temporary
and cooler than throwing papers.
Oh, "cool," like, um,
sweeping the floors,
cleaning the toilets,
taking out the trash?
I just need some money
to buy some music.
Oh, "Don't Stand
So Close to Me"?
That's the one.
So, are you 14?
Yes.
Okay. Come back tomorrow.
I'll ask my boss.
- Hello?
-You'll never guess what I just did.
-The suspense is killing me.
-I'll tell you
when you get here.
But you're not 14.
- He doesn't know that.
-And I thought I was the rebel.
I don't have any ID or obviously
a driver's license to show them,
- so they can't
easily check my age.
Hmm.
I like this. Almost like
your own private clubhouse.
Yeah, kind of.
What happened to recording
the song off the radio?
I guess I'm giving up.
By the way... I know you paid
for those records the other day.
You didn't steal 'em.
-Craig told you?
-If in so many words,
but... really, it was Stewart,
the record store guy.
He told me
you bought them today,
I guess, while I was
in the bathroom.
Yeah.
I just wanted you
to think I was...
...I don't know, cool, you know?
I already think that.
-You do?
-Of course, and...
...my dad's in jail,
so being a thief...
...isn't really that cool to me.
-I'm sorry.
-No need to apologize.
Now that I'm getting my own job,
I'll be able to buy
all the records I want.
-Have you ever had a job?
-No, I'm only 13.
-You mean 14?
-Right.
How's the burger?
It's great, Poppy, thanks.
What a surprise,
a kid who likes a burger!
Next thing you know,
you'll be telling me
you like pizza too.
Yeah, I like pizza.
Oh, uh...
...I got a job.
Not yet, officially,
but I applied.
At a record store.
Well, why do you need a job?
Wanna buy stuff.
Well, what does
the 13-year-old need to buy?
Records, mainly.
Thought you'd be excited for me.
Oh, we are! We are!
We're-- it's very exciting!
It's not a real job,
it's just sweeping floors,
cleaning toilets,
stuff like that.
Well, sounds like
a real job to me.
Sounds like
a real bad job to me.
Are you old enough to get a job?
I thought you had
to be, like, 16.
Actually, it's 14,
so technically no,
but I kind of lied.
Well, now you really are
reminding me of your mother.
Hi, is Stewart in yet?
Uh, no, Stewart's not in.
Can I help you with something?
No, sir. I was just supposed
to meet him here today.
-Casey?
-Yes, sir, that's me.
I got something for you,
from Stewart. Hold on a sec.
Are you his boss?
I own the place.
You must love music.
Not really.
Tell Stewart thanks.
Yeah.
Casey.
Stewart was right about 14
being able to legally work,
but, uh, we only hire
15 and older.
That's cool. It's really cool.
Why don't you come back
next summer when you're older?
I don't think I'm gonna be here
next summer.
I'm actually only 13, anyway.
He just gave it to you?
Yeah. He wrote me
a note explaining.
"We got a shipment of records
in last night,
including one copy
of The Police single
'Don't Stand So Close to Me'."
He put all caps
for the word "one."
"That single is still
really hard to get,
but I grabbed it for you.
Enjoy it.
And sorry
about the job. Stewart."
Wow, it's so cool.
Yeah, I guess he felt bad.
So, how's it sound?
Do you see a record player?
I don't have a record player.
What about your grandparents?
Whoa, this thing is great!
Vintage, but unfortunately...
...it doesn't work.
First thing I tried.
- Do you have a record player?
- -No, my dad took ours in the divorce.
but I know who does.
It's called a turntable,
not a record player.
Whatever, can we use it?
-It's not mine,
it's my brother's.
-Can't you borrow it?
No! I-- even if I could,
how are you gonna get
that turntable audio
into your jam box?
I don't know.
You have to have it
wired properly.
It's not magic.
You can't play it,
and it just goes
through the air.
You have to buy cables
from RadioShack.
Yeah, she knows that.
This is great. Just great.
Nice going.
What? I can't help her.
I can't!
Oh, my God!
Casey, honey, you in there?
Hey, Mimi, what's up?
There's a phone call for you.
- Casey?
- Okay, Mimi, I got it.
Did you pick up yet?
Yeah, Mimi, you can hang up.
I'll hang up.
Oh, sorry.
-It's okay.
-I dropped the phone!
Mom?
I'm not your mom, and wow,
do you need your own line.
Sorry about that.
I figured she was calling to say
she's never coming back.
Can you meet me later tonight?
Maybe. What time?
You'll probably have
to sneak out.
- You got it?
- Yep.
His house is up on the right.
- Nice house.
- His dad's a plumber.
He evidently makes
a lot of money.
You ready?
I guess.
He didn't even try to help
with that record player.
He so deserves this.
Oh, hey there, Craig!
-Is Casey home?
-Well, she sure is!
Let me go get her.
I am so glad you kids
have become friends!
I'm sorry, Craig.
She just informed me
that she's not feeling well.
-She got the flu?
-No.
No, I don't think
it's anything like that.
I think she probably
just stayed up too late.
Can you tell her I wanted
to invite her to a party?
It's a TV watch party, actually,
for this new cable channel.
Well, tha-- that sounds
interesting. When is it?
Tomorrow night, at my house.
And I assume your parents
are gonna both be there.
Unfortunately, yes.
That's so weird.
I know. He didn't mention it
at all to my grandmother.
He talked to my mom.
I was avoiding him too.
No mention of it.
-I don't get it.
-Me either.
You should bring
that Police single
and your jam box anyway.
Maybe we can hijack
his brother's record player
and finish your tape.
What's going on?
What'd you do?
I broke it.
- No!
- Accidentally.
Oh!
-Wow.
-Yep.
Casey, we need to talk.
- What's up, Mimi?
You sound all serious.
- Oh, well...
we got this letter
in the mail from an attorney.
From Craig's parents?
No, from your father,
his attorney.
Why would Craig's parents
be sending us a legal notice?
No reason. Never mind.
What's it about?
Well...
...as you may or may not know,
your mother is
your father's legal contact,
even though they're divorced.
-I... didn't know that.
-No.
And, because she doesn't have
a permanent address,
which you well know...
...we told her she could use
our address
for important correspondence,
but I never expected
to get anything like this!
Is my dad okay?
Oh, he's fine.
According to this,
they have been...
...working on getting him
an early release.
Apparently,
the main case against him
might get thrown out on appeal
on a technicality,
which is the only thing
that makes sense,
because you and I
and everybody in the world
-knows he stole that money!
-I don't know that.
I know, honey.
I-- I know. That's fine.
You're his daughter,
but he did it.
Does Mom know?
I doubt it.
She's living it up
5000 miles away in Paris.
I always wanted to go to France.
This street looks totally
different during the day.
Yeah, it does.
Says it's right up here.
Must've cleaned it up.
Are you sure
this is the right house?
I'm sure.
Hey, what's up?
Just admiring the neighborhood.
You see,
our neighbors got rolled!
-The neighbors?
-Yeah, the other night.
They don't even have any kids!
You should've seen the old man
out there trying to clean it up.
He was not happy.
I thought it was funny.
Wow, that's a mess.
I thought you said
we were having a party.
-Where is everyone?
-It's just us.
I mean, it's not a keg party.
You have a pool?
Yeah.
This is cute.
My mom's idea.
Uh, does she think we're seven?
Parents didn't want us
in the house.
Actually, my brother,
but same difference.
Where are your parents?
In their bedroom, like always.
They let my brother's friends
hang out all the time,
and they go hide.
Hmm! Hi there!
You must be Casey.
Uh, y-- yeah.
Nice to meet you.
I'm Craig's mom.
Oh--
I've heard all about you.
Uh, do you know my grandmother?
Yes, I do. Well, and Craig.
He's such a good gossip.
I'm so sorry about your father.
He's so young. He's
the same age as Craig's dad!
Thanks, but my dad's not dead.
I understand, sweetheart.
It's tough. I get it.
-If there's anything
that we can do--
-No, I think you misunderstood
-my grandmother, 'cause--
-Oh, I know you!
-How are you, Carrie?
-Great! Thanks
for having us over.
Oh, absolutely!
I hope you guys enjoy the show.
It's not a show, Mom.
Well, whatever it is,
I hope you like it.
So, um, your brother
and his friends
are gonna be here in an hour.
You know how he is.
Just-- oh, God,
just stay out of his way.
And be sure to get
something to eat, girls.
We got this, uh, ice cream.
It is so yummy. It's chocolate
with these little bits
and marshmallows and--
oh, I can't remember
what it's called,
but it is good.
Rocky Road!
It's called Rocky Road.
Okay. Enjoy.
What did your grandma
say to my mom?
She said that my dad
was dead to her
because of what he did,
not that he was actually dead.
Yeah, my mom drinks
a lot of wine,
like, all day every day,
so, yeah, not surprising.
I'll be right back.
Do you like Rocky Road?
Never had it.
I hate it.
She'll get mad
if we don't eat it.
You heard about MTV, right?
Music Television?
MTV?
That isn't on TV.
- It was on TV
the other day.
Uh, cable TV. Not here, though.
- We have, uh, cousins
who live in New Jersey...
...and that's the only place
you can see it right now,
so they taped the launch
of the channel
and sent us a copy.
Sent it to my brother,
but my mom is making him
let us watch it.
I, uh,
haven't seen this yet myself.
...T-minus ten,
nine, eight, seven,
six, five, four-- we've gone
for main engine start.
We have main engine start.
Ladies and gentlemen,
rock and roll.
So this is what cable TV is.
Uh, sorry, uh,
the tape must have messed up.
I think I just hit puberty.
Just got word from my mom.
Surprise! Change of plans again.
She's coming back earlier now.
Not sure what's up,
but I'm going home in two days.
But if my dad is really gonna
get out of jail early,
I wanna live with him
back in California.
I like it here in Texas and all,
but it gets really hot
during the summer
riding skateboards.
I've never sweated
so much in my life.
We should have a party
for your birthday.
My birthday isn't
for three weeks,
and I'm leaving
the day after tomorrow.
Let's do an early party, then.
I don't need a party.
No one needs a party.
There's no time.
There's always time
for your party.
You girls have fun?
We did.
Thanks for the ride, Mimi.
Anytime.
Okay, we're here.
Oh.
Here you go.
Well...
...I guess you could start
packing up your room, Casey.
I just can't believe
the summer's almost over.
Be right there.
Do you want some help?
Thanks, but it's
not that much, actually.
Oh.
Okay.
Well, uh, I'll catch up
with you later, then.
Yeah, sure.
Oh, and let's do something
before my mom gets back in town.
Maybe the arcade again?
Definitely.
You know, pizza has all four
of the basic food groups in it.
- You have your protein,
you have your dairy,
you have your grains,
and then, of course,
you have vegetables
if you order it that way.
-This is only pepperoni.
-Well, yeah, I know.
We don't wanna be too healthy.
We haven't heard anything else
back about your father...
...but if and when we do,
you'll be the first to know.
I don't wanna get my hopes up.
I've, uh--
I had a really good time
with you guys this summer.
Oh, well, maybe,
maybe you could
come back next summer.
-Maybe.
-We could have hamburgers
and pizza every day.
Yeah.
Well, you've got one day
left here this summer,
so, what you got planned
for tomorrow?
Nothing.
I have to admit,
I told a very small lie
to my grandparents.
My plan for tomorrow is not
actually to do nothing.
My plan for tomorrow is the same
as it's been all summer,
to record that Police song
off the radio.
Now, but I have to admit,
I got frustrated and distracted
and really lost my focus
when that record got involved,
but my mission is the same
as it was back in June.
I've got ten songs on my list.
I've got one to go.
So, on my last full day here,
I can confidently say
I will record that song.
It's more than a feeling
-More than a feeling
-When I hear that old song
-They used to play
I begin dreaming
-More than a feeling
-More than a feeling
-'Til I see
Marianne walk away
- I see my Marianne
Walkin' away
- Hey, Q102.
- Yeah, hi!
-Uh, can I request a song?
-What you got?
-"Don't Stand So Close to Me."
-Cool, kid.
-What's your name?
-Casey.
Okay, Casey,
we'll get that one on for you.
- Certs is two,
two, two mints in one.
With Retsyn.
Be certain with Certs.
Happy birthday!
I told you there was
always time for a party.
Make a wish.
Okay, um...
Oh, crap.
Do you guys wanna come in?
I got there on the radio.
I thought you gave up on that.
Still can't believe
you got through.
Yeah, I know, right? Finally.
But I'm still waiting
to record it.
Ugh!
This chair sucks!
It's antique.
It's not supposed to be
comfortable.
Q102. Texas' Best Rock.
I know it's not
your birthday yet,
but obviously, we're not
going to be around when it is.
So...
Casey...
...could you come
out here, please?
Yeah, Mimi, hold on a sec.
If that song comes on,
can you hit record for me?
Will do.
I just want you to know...
...that you will always
be welcome here.
What's going on?
No matter what happens.
Dad? What are you doing here?
I can't believe it.
- How are you, kiddo?
- I'm great.
Is this real? Am I dreaming?
Oh, hey, hey, hey, hey, hey,
hey, hey, hey, easy.
You're not dreaming.
What are you doing here?
- I got out.
- When?
Oh, I don't know. About, uh,
24 hours ago.
How?
Your mom snuck a screwdriver
into a loaf of bread
she sent me.
Chiseled my way through two feet
of solid concrete.
No, I know you're lying,
Mom would never help you.
Uh, it's a long story,
but, uh...
...uh, basically,
my case got tossed on appeal.
Uh, my attorney sent
a letter to, to your,
to your grandparents.
I know, but...
what does that mean?
It means I'm free, kiddo.
I'm free.
So, you didn't do it?
Uh, didn't do what?
Take that money?
Uh...
All that matters now is I'm out,
and I'm here with you.
What are you doing
here in Texas?
- Your mom brought me.
- Quit doping around.
I'm serious.
- My mom?
- Yeah.
She's gracious enough
to pick me up from the airport.
Uh, I'm thinking
of moving here, actually.
But I thought if you got out,
we could go back to California.
Uh-- oh, I don't know,
kiddo, uh--
Maybe one day.
You kno-- I got, I got a lot
to figure out right now.
Oh. Okay.
I'm just so glad to see you.
-It's been such a long time,
and, and, and I'm--
-Where's my mom?
U-- uh, she's out front.
I just wanted
to come in and say "Hi" first.
Okay.
Everything okay?
My dad's here.
He's out of jail?
Y-- yeah. I-- I don't know how,
but he's here.
My mom's here too.
-I think I might be in shock.
-Maybe you should sit down.
The song hasn't played.
I'm running out of time.
I-- I gotta go talk to my mom.
Maybe you guys should go.
I wanted to give you
a birthday gift first.
Oh, that's sweet,
but you don't need
to give me anything.
Hey, Casey.
Honey, we need to talk.
Oh, hey, Mom.
Yeah, give me a sec.
Didn't think
you were coming till tomorrow.
I've got some friends over.
Yeah, well, plans changed.
That's an understatement.
Hi.
Hey.
How's it--
Sorry. You first.
How's it going?
Okay.
I guess.
I still am really confused
to why my dad's sitting
in the kitchen right now.
Jesus Christ, Casey,
I thought you'd be happy.
I-- I am!
I am.
Just, I'm confused.
-About what?
-Th-- everything. Why he's here?
He's got nowhere else to go.
Are you guys back together?
Oh! God, no.
I can't stand your father,
you know that.
But I was married
to the bastard for 12 years,
and... he is your dad.
And I don't wanna see him
homeless or anything.
So, we'll help him.
Or you will, I don't know.
We're gonna help?
We can't even take care
of ourselves.
Paris sucked,
in case you were wondering.
- You said it was great
in your postcard.
- Yeah, well...
...it was until that asshole
didn't ask me to marry him.
I'm sorry.
Men are like taxis.
Wait a few minutes
and another will come around.
I gotta go talk to my friends.
Yeah, whatever.
Um, just don't take
too long, okay?
I wanna hit the road.
Mom?
Yeah?
Never mind.
So, I have to go.
-Right this second?
-Pretty much.
N-- none of my business,
but your family's
freaking crazy.
Yeah, we're not exactly
The Waltons, that's for sure.
I got you these concert tickets.
What?
You didn't have to do that.
How much did these cost?
Don't you wanna know
who it's for?
Please tell me it's not Rush.
It's not Rush.
But it is another Canadian trio
that I'm sure you've heard of.
Triumph?
Oh, my God!
I love Triumph!
I could only get two.
It's at Reunion Arena,
so I thought
maybe you and Carrie could go.
I, I don't know
any Triumph songs.
I'll go with you.
-You will?
-Yeah, but don't get
too excited.
-It's not a date.
-No!
No, it-- definitely not.
You do realize I live in Dallas,
which is like three hours
away from here.
My brother will take me.
He's going too.
I got the tickets
from his friends, actually.
Some scalpers.
Ladies and gentlemen,
rock and roll.
-Hold on
-Hold on to your dreams
-Hold on
-Even though it seems
Everyone around you
Has their little schemes
Listen to your heart
-Oh, hold on
-Hold on
To your dreams
Can't you feel the magic
Just feel it everywhere
Can't you hear the music...
...three o'clock here with...
I hope you have time
to record the song
-before you have to go.
-...Zeppelin coming up.
That new one from Foreigner
and some Bad Company too.
But let's kick it off with one
of our most requested tunes
this afternoon.
People have been calling about
this one all day.
One from that
general hospital star,
you know the one,
Rick Springfield
and "Jessie's Girl."
Right here on Texas' Best Rock.
What are you doing?
I want you'd have it.
Even though is not
officially finished.
I figured that's what
you wished for
when you blew out
your birthday candle.
I already got my wish.
Thanks for the mixtape.
I'll listen to it all the time.
Sorry I didn't get
that one song.
I really did try.
You do know
what the song's about, right?
Not really.
I just love the drums.
Do you know that Stuart Copeland
had his own punk band?
No.
I don't know a ton
about music like you,
but I did hear
the song is about Sting...
...when he was a teacher.
Oh, yeah, right,
I knew about that.
One of his girl students
had a crush on him,
or it was the other way around.
Not sure.
Oh, really?
- Yeah, I mean,
it's right there in the song.
Young teacher,
schoolgirl fantasy.
I'm more of a music person,
not really a lyrics person.
I guess I never thought
about it like that.
Not sure it's true.
Let's say it's not.
"Shane...
...come back.
Come back, Shane."
See you guys next summer.
Who's Shane?
It's my dad's favorite movie.
-You know that.
-Please don't start fighting.
We're not.
We're not fighting.
It's just he should know that.
Yeah, uh, sorry, I, I, I forgot.
I thought...
maybe he had dementia.
-It's a movie.
-Yep, I got it.
-I remember now.
-Can we go now?
Looks like you had fun
after all.
Yeah.
I did.
...ooh, every
Little thing you do
You're number one, babe
- When you say that I am
Gonna be the one...
...I get the sweetest kind of
Feeling in my heart
That only love gets
Mm, mm
When you whisper
That I'm everything you need
And put your sweet lips
Next to mine
I must confess that
I still really can't believe
The sweetness I feel inside
- The zoom gives you rock...
-The zoom...
-...for the senses.
-For the senses, for the senses,
for the senses...
The lows that evolve
into highs that pierce.
Feel the rock
on 98 KCEW,
Dallas-Fort Worth.
KCEW.
Yeah. Hi, can I request a song?
In case you're wondering,
this top ten list
is not in order.
Just my favorites right now,
which I've been trying
to record forever.
- And if there are liner notes
on this tape, it would tell you
that it doesn't have
a theme or tell a story.
It's not a concept album,
it's not a mixtape,
other than they're just
-my favorite songs
for the summer.
-I'm a Pepper
-He's a Pepper
-She's a Pepper
We're a Pepper
Wouldn't you like
To be a Pepper too?
Everyone rejects me
Livin' in my best dreams
And I've come to realize
I can see it in your eyes
You're out to get me
- Yeah, I know
You're out to get me
Everyone rejects me
You know I don't like
you messing with my music.
I know.
What are you looking for anyway?
You obviously don't have it.
...know you're out to get me
Only need one more
to finish my mixtape.
Into thinking
Ya needed me too
And I see I lost the bet
Hey, kiddo, you ready?
-What is wrong with you?
-Do I have to go?
-Yeah, I said
What is wrong with you?
-Come on.
Mm, hmm, hmm, hmm
Everything
That's part of you
Is part of me, babe
Ooh, every little thing
You do
Is like a dream, babe
Ooh, every little thing
You do
You're number one, babe
...not only love, yes
Mm, mm
When you whisper that
I'm everything you need
I put your sweet lips
Next to mine
-I must confess...
-We're almost there.
You're gonna have
a great time, I know it.
...the sweetness
I feel inside
-When are you coming back?
-Three weeks.
And I'm not going to let you
ruin this trip for me.
I think he's gonna
pop the question.
Oh! I hope he does it
while we're in Paris.
And don't worry, he's not trying
to replace your father.
Come on.
Well, we know it's not
what you're used to, Casey,
but we hope you like it.
It's perfect.
Uh, just make yourself at home,
move stuff around,
whatever you wanna do, just, uh,
- just don't touch my medals.
- Well--
Don't, don't move
too much stuff around.
Thank you, Mimi and Poppy.
Y'all are going to have
so much fun!
Be good.
Okay, well, I will see y'all
in three weeks!
Thank you!
- Well-- -See you later.
- Mm, be careful.
Bye.
"Shane!
Come back!
Shane!
Come back, Shane!"
You've never seen Shane?
1953?
Alan Ladd. It-- it's a classic!
You're missing out.
Would you like something to eat?
Oh, uh, no, thanks.
Okay.
Oh! Uh, well,
like your grandfather said,
why don't you
just make yourself
right at home?
And we can play UNO later
if you like. Hmm?
Just remember,
your grandfather hates to lose.
We're not the best
At what we do
Not even number two
You could walk a mile
In our shoes
But what good would that do?
Because we do what we do
Yeah, we're a lot like you
Sometimes our course is true
- Other times it's askew
We're well aware
Of you standing there
Looking like you've heard this
All before
We're well aware of you
Standing there looking like
You've heard this all before
I brought my own phone.
- Right tool for the job,
you know?
I mean, you wouldn't catch
Eddie Van Halen
using keyboards on stage,
so I'm not using
a rotary dial phone.
Being a broke teenager,
I can't afford to buy records.
Vinyl is much better,
of course, so it's...
- ...cassette tapes
and the radio...
...and a lot of waiting around.
The Police, old man,
never seemed to get
that one recorded.
Oh, good morning!
Uh, morning.
Sorry about the TV.
The tube went out on our Zenith,
so we're using
that one right now.
Hmm. Well,
I'll have your grandfather
take a look at it
after he gets done
cleaning out the camper.
You know, you really should have
a look at that, by the way.
It's a 1980 Bigfoot
and he's very proud of it.
Why don't I make you
some breakfast
and then you go on out and play?
I'm 13, Mimi.
I don't really play anymore.
You know what I mean.
Just go outside,
find some kids and do something.
It's summertime!
I might just hang out
in my room, if that's okay.
Yeah. Suit yourself.
...when you're walking
Or talking...
...the 1981 Toyota Celica G- isn't a sporty car.
It's two sporty cars--
Turn it up, turn it up
So loud that
You can't take it
Turn it up
You that new girl?
Hey!
Where are you going?
Home.
Back to California?
No.
I live here now. Texas.
I've never seen a girl
on a skateboard before.
That's dumb.
Try and do some tricks
like Rodney Mullen.
-Who's that?
-Pro skateboarder.
-California's cool.
-He's from Florida.
I'd like to be
a professional skateboarder
when I grow up.
-Or maybe a wrestler.
-You can do anything
when you put your mind to it.
It's what my dad
always said, anyway.
Did your dad die?
-Who told you that?
-My mom is friends
with your grandma.
Great.
Let's go ride.
Or are you chicken?
Chicken!
Dude, what? Not a chicken.
What that even mean?
Ew, gross! Don't touch
the fountain part
with your mouth,
you'll get the flu!
How old are you?
Thirteen.
I'm almost 13.
So you're 12?
Yeah.
Do you like the Von Erichs?
Is that heavy metal?
No, the wrestlers on TV.
-I don't watch wrestling.
-You're missing out!
I mean, "the Iron Claw!"
Who's your favorite band?
Uh, mine is Rush.
-I like Journey.
-Yeah, Neal Schon!
- He's an underrated guitarist,
I'll give you that.
But I really think he did
some of his best work
for Santana.
He was only 17 then,
but not really a fan of Santana.
I'm into Queen,
and The Police are super cool.
Did you know that
Stewart Copeland had
his own punk band
called Klark Kent?
"Klark" with a "K."
Yeah, I'm actually making
a mixtape right now.
I need one more song
to finish it.
What song?
"Don't Stand So Close to Me"
by The Police.
Hold on.
You don't like Rush? I mean,
Neil Part on the drums.
I mean, odd meters
are impressive and all,
but you can't dance to it.
And it's Peart, by the way.
But no, I'm not a fan
of Neil Peart or Rush.
Give me Bonzo any day.
John Bonham?
Zeppelin?
Hammer of the Gods!
Isn't he dead?
Yeah, but his music lives on.
Same with your dad.
What about him?
Isn't that why you're here?
Because... he died.
No.
Oh!
Sorry, Poppy.
Ah! My doctor says
I'm not supposed
to drink these anymore.
Oh, okay.
You in Vietnam or something?
I wish.
I was too old for that one.
World War II.
I was stationed in,
uh, northern France.
Uh, saw your medals.
You like my RV?
I guess.
I tell you what. Uh--
I'll make you a deal.
Y-- you just keep
this little beer thing
between you and me and, uh,
I'll let you come in here
any time you want,
play your music
or whatever you wanna do.
Just keep this between us.
So, you're saying,
"Don't tell Mimi."
That's exactly what I'm saying.
-Deal.
-Sun never really goes down
- Earth turns around
And around it
Stars are so far out
And Venus and Mars
Make it hard
To remain on the ground
- The Moon doesn't shine
On its own...
- Casey, honey?
-Shows up at night Your reflection...
Yeah?
Dinner's almost ready.
-Thanks, Mimi.
-Um... honey,
the next time you go someplace,
please let me know.
I mean, I-- I didn't have
any idea where you were.
Oh, sorry about that, Mimi,
I was just riding my skateboard.
Oh, that's great! Just,
just let me know
next time, okay?
Oh! Fun!
I know I'm only 13,
but I'm pretty mature
for my age.
Or at least, that's
what my therapist told me
after my parents got a divorce.
When I was seven,
my soccer coach told me
to kick the ankles
of the other team
or even elbow them
in the ribs to get the ball.
But I didn't.
I mean, we were seven.
When I was nine,
my best friend's dad
took us to a dinner
and had a roadie
in the car with him.
Not the kind of roadie
that sets up guitars
and the amps at concerts.
The kind who drink.
Just scotch and water.
Or at least,
that's what he told the cops
when he got pulled over
for weaving through traffic.
Or the time a few years ago
when my mom got pulled over
for speeding,
and not sure why,
but the cop searched her car.
And what did he find
in the glove box?
A loaded pistol.
It was only a .22,
but the cop called it
a Saturday night special,
whatever that is,
and took the gun
and my mom to jail.
This is the first time
I'm spending any time
at my grandparents' house,
so admittedly,
- I don't know the rules.
- Casey, dinner's ready.
Be right there.
But when you think about it,
neither do most parents
or grandparents.
Well, I hope you're getting
all settled in
to the room and all, I mean.
I assume you like pot roast.
- I, uh--
- Well, of course
she likes pot roast.
What's not to like
about pot roast?
Would you let her answer?
Tell her, Casey,
you like pot roast.
Your mother
always loved pot roast,
so I'm sure you do too.
Yeah. Pot roast is okay.
See, I know my granddaughter.
And how about green beans?
Well, of course
she likes green beans.
Her mother always liked
those too.
Or was it her dad?
You know, when they first
got married, they used
to eat over here a lot,
and I remember
your dad or your mom
used to like green beans,
- I can't remember which one, I--
- Oh,
thanks for the dinner,
but I'm not really that hungry.
May I be excused?
Mm-hmm.
I forgot.
- What--
- Quit talking
about her parents.
Oh, hey, Mimi,
I'm going out to ride.
Okay, sweetie, have fun!
You okay?
Yeah, I'm fine.
Hey, uh, you wanna go swimming?
-You have a pool?
-It's at a friend's house.
I don't know.
I have to ask my grandmother.
You can swim, right?
I can swim. Took lessons
from these gay ladies
when I was like five or six.
They lived in this nice house
and had a pool.
Why were they gay?
I don't know.
It was just something
my mom told me later
when I was older.
You see them kiss?
No, I saw them swim.
-You like it?
-Are there some little kids
coming over or something?
Well, maybe
your grandmother will like it.
Well, I do like it!
You're never too old
to be a swinger.
Oh, well, it's just
a silly old joke,
and I do like the swing.
I'm going swimming
and forgot my swimsuit.
-Whose pool?
-Some friend of Craig's.
Oh, I met this neighbor kid
named Craig.
Says his mom knows you.
He also said you told her
about my dad.
Oh-- yes, Craig.
Well, he-- h-- he's a nice kid,
and his mom shouldn't
have told him that.
I'm sorry, I-- I was just in a--
Can you just take me
to the store?
Well, why don't you just borrow
one of my old swimsuits?
They used to be about your size.
Cannonball!
Ooh, ooh
Ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
Today's Tom Sawyer
He gets high on you
Da-da, da-da
I don't really know the song!
Da, da, da-da
He gets by on you
Da-da, da, da-da, da-da
- Ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh...
Ew, are you peeing?
What? No!
You know that if you pee
in a pool, there's a chemical
that will make a red ring
float around you?
You don't like to swim?
Don't have a swimsuit.
I'm Carrie, friends with Craig.
Casey.
Isn't that a boy's name?
Hey, what the hell?
What are you kids doing?
This is private property.
Get out of here!
Craig told me that was
a friend of his house.
It was,
but they just moved.
I'm gonna kill 'him.
Oh--
He likes you, you know.
"Likes me," likes me?
Yeah, that's what he told me.
He sent you?
No, he didn't send me!
I've known him
since we were little kids.
We should hang out sometime.
Making mixtapes may look easy,
but let me assure you, it isn't.
Not only do you have
to call the radio station,
- make a request that has to be
in their song rotation...
...then wait
for that song to play,
which requires
a ton of patience,
and often doesn't even happen.
But you also have to have
great coordination and timing.
Let me explain.
Hit the record button too soon,
you get the DJ blabbing
over the song,
but hit it too late
and you've missed
the first part of the song.
Then it's not worth
recording at all.
I've been working
on my technique
for several years
and I'm pretty close
to perfecting it.
Casey, telephone.
I got it!
Mimi, hang up, I got it!
- Sorry.
- Hello?
Hey, Casey, kiddo! How are you?
Uh, Mom,
is everything all right?
Everything's good.
Um, but listen, hey,
this call is costing
your grandmother a fortune,
so I'll be quick.
Hey. Looks like someone
had a change of heart.
I think she likes it.
Mm.
You wanna talk?
- I can't believe
she called collect.
That's your mother.
She told me
she's staying longer.
-Until mid-July.
-Oh, don't worry, you'll be back
in time for school.
Yeah, we'll see about that.
Mother's always been unreliable.
Yeah,
we prefer to say she's...
-...unpredictable.
-Oh, I'd say
she's very predictable.
Mm-hmm, she's
always been that way,
ever since she was
about your age.
Listen, Casey, I-- I know
you don't really
wanna be here...
...but we're glad you are.
You play?
So close!
- Yes!
- It's match point.
Borg verses McEnroe.
Tension fills the air.
Borg readies his serve.
McEnroe waits.
Borg wipes his brow...
...tosses the ball...
...and serves!
Whoo! Yeah!
Going for a kind of
plectic, antique chic look?
Something like that.
It's cool.
Not actually, but thanks.
Well, I think it is.
And anyway, according to Craig,
it's only for a few weeks.
You and Craig talk a lot.
Yeah, I guess we do.
You make all these?
Yep.
You a tomboy?
Never really thought about it.
You listen to hard rock,
make mixtapes,
ride skateboards--
- I've got a boy's name.
- I mean,
yeah, no offense.
Your parents divorced?
Yeah.
Mine too.
It sucks.
I try to look at it as positive.
And I get
twice the Christmas gifts.
You know,
two sides of the family.
I'm staying for at least
half the summer now.
What happened to a few weeks?
My mom decided to extend
her European stay
with her boyfriend,
soon-to-be fianc, that is.
He's in the military
and got additional leave time,
so they're taking
a longer vacation.
-Your mom doesn't work?
-She's in between jobs
at the moment.
That's the real reason
she went on this trip.
Let me guess,
you don't like him.
Nope.
Can't you go stay with your dad?
I assume that's him
in the photo.
That's...
...not possible.
Hey, got an idea.
- Baby don't get off
The phone
Baby don't leave me alone
Baby, I'm stuck in a cone
I'm begging you, you, you
- Baby, you should win an award
Baby, you should get on aboard
I've never seen
so many records in my life.
Pretty cool, huh?
Uh, can I tell you a secret?
I've actually never been
inside a record store.
I mean, I've looked
through the window of one,
but never actually been in one.
What? Why?
Never had any money.
You like Journey?
Yeah, why?
- What are y--
what are you doing?
- If you don't like Journey,
-I'll take something else.
-Put it back!
I don't want to steal anything.
You're not
stealing anything, I am.
- Dude, put it back!
- -You're not fun enough.
Put it back!
-Put it back.
-Whoa! Whoa, whoa, whoa!
Careful there.
You break it, you buy it.
- Yeah, sorry.
I'm kind of clumsy.
-Oh, you work here?
-Yeah, system manager.
Uh, part-time, anyways.
I'm in a band.
Do you wanna buy that?
No. No, no, no,
we're just looking.
For anything in particular?
What do you play in your band?
I'm a singer,
I don't play any instruments.
Uh, kind of like,
um, David Lee Roth.
Oh, that's cool.
Although, you know,
he did play acoustic
in "Ice Cream Man,"
side two,
their self-titled first album.
-I didn't know that.
-Yeah, and I think
he also played acoustic
on Women and Children First,
but I can't remember for sure.
Oh, so you're looking
for some Van Halen?
No. Actually, I'm looking
for Zenyatta Mondatta.
- That's from The Police.
- Yeah, yeah,
I know who they are.
All right, follow me.
Yeah, I really dig The Police.
You know, I wish they'd make
a concept album, you know?
They've got such a unique sound.
Here, this one was a return.
Here we go. Be careful with it.
All due respect,
I love The Police,
but when it comes
to concept albums,
Pink Floyd wins.
I mean, you can't really
beat Animals,
although The Wall comes close.
-Agreed.
-I have no idea
what you guys are talking about.
I can't afford it.
You know a lot about music
and you have really good taste,
especially for a little kid.
Thanks.
You're welcome.
Uh, do you have the single
"Don't Stand So Close to Me?"
That's really what I need.
Nah, can't keep it
on the shelves.
Oh, have you tried recording it
off the radio?
What?
-Hey, when's your birthday?
-August, which is always sad.
-Birthdays aren't sad.
-Yeah, but summer ending is
and school starting is.
You should ask
for The Police album
for your birthday.
Or, I don't know,
maybe you want these?
I can't believe you.
What? It's no big deal.
They've got more.
-You should put 'em back.
-And get arrested?
No, but, uh, I don't want 'em.
I mean, I dig Foghat.
Did you know that
they got their name
- from playing Scrabble?
- No.
Yeah, or at least I think so,
but I'm not into Loverboy.
Hey, I like Loverboy.
I'll give 'em to Craig then.
He'll appreciate
my kindness and bravery
in the face of danger.
You gonna eat your meatloaf?
I thought you said
you like meatloaf.
Sorry, I thought
you were talking
about the singer.
What singer?
Meat Loaf.
He's an actor and a singer.
He's in that movie
called Roadie.
"The band makes it rock,
but the roadies make it roll."
Hmm. Well, um,
if you're not gonna eat it,
then just give it to me.
I'll eat it.
It's all yours.
I gotta work
on my mixtape anyway.
Oh. I wanted to ask.
Hypothetically speaking,
if someone stole something
and you knew about it,
-would you turn 'em in?
-Who stole something?
Uh, n-- no one.
It's hypothetical.
Nobody likes a snitch.
Don't listen to him.
It would depend
on who did the stealing
and what they stole.
Like I said before,
nobody likes a snitch.
Got it, Poppy.
Thanks.
You like meatloaf?
I'm a fan.
The only real way
to listen to music
is with headphones.
Although these aren't the best,
but you still obviously get
much better sound
than from the jam box speakers.
I've actually always wanted
a home stereo system
with tower speakers,
but that's not happening
anytime soon,
so headphones are
the next best thing.
Not only does the music
sound great,
but it drowns out
all other noises in your house.
I especially like to wear them
when my mom yells at me.
Can't hear her at all,
which is actually better
than the best sounding music,
when I think about it.
Just one more song.
KCEW.
-Hi, can I request a song?
-Sure, what'd you wanna hear?
-Uh, "Don't Stand
So Close to Me" by the--
-The Police. Yeah, got it.
-What's your name?
-Casey.
I'll try to get that on for you.
Do you know when-- Uh--
Hello? Are you still there?
What are you doing here?
It's the middle of the night!
It's actually only midnight.
Isn't that
the "middle of the night"?
Do you wanna
sneak out or what?
I don't wanna get in trouble.
Your grandparents
are asleep, right?
Yeah, they go to bed at,
like, 9:00.
Uh, but I'm recording this song.
Oh, yeah. The Police song.
Actually, I'm sure
I missed it by now.
I fell asleep.
Well, get your shoes on then!
Let's go!
Carrie and I played tennis
here the other day.
She told me.
Wow, you guys really are,
like, best friends, huh?
What? No! I'm, I'm not
best friends with a girl.
Oh, sorry to disappoint.
No, that's not what I mean.
I'm kidding.
Did you like the singles
she gave you?
Which singles?
Two 45s she gave you as a gift.
Uh, Foghat and Loverboy.
Oh, yeah.
But... those weren't a gift.
I paid for those.
Paid for them?
Well, my mom did, so yeah.
-Why?
-No reason.
Are we meeting someone?
No, it's midnight.
I don't know anyone out here.
My dad always says
nothing good happens
after midnight.
We should probably hide.
Ugh. I hate smokers.
My mom smokes.
Used to flush her cigarettes
down the toilet.
-Really?
-Yeah, until one day
she caught me
and I got whipped
like I've never
been whipped before.
Your mom spanks you?
Uh, not anymore,
but yeah, she used to.
My mom will say, "Wait until
your father gets home for work"
and then belt city happens.
You actually call it belt city?
My dad does.
In my mom's defense,
I didn't realize
how much cigarettes cost.
Darn things are expensive.
You know, I don't think
that guy is smoking a cigarette.
It smells of skunk.
Yeah, skunk weed.
How the hell do you know
what weed smells like?
My older brother, he smokes them
when he goes to concerts.
You've been to concerts?
One, ZZ Top at Reunion Arena.
My dream is to go to a concert.
There's someone else coming.
Hey, man, where you been?
What are they doing?
Did they see us?
I don't think so.
-Oh, crap!
-What?
I'm pretty sure
-we're witnessing a drug deal.
-No way.
Yes way!
Let's get out of here.
Hey!
-That was fun.
-Fun?
Yeah!
Mimi, what--
What are you doing up?
Well, I had
the same question for you.
I-- I... uh, was--
I don't know
how you kids do these things.
Got me crazy.
I got up to go the bathroom,
it happens, you know, a lot,
when you get older.
And I saw you light on
under your door
and I thought, naturally,
I'd come check on you.
Naturally.
Now it's your turn.
I was recording a song,
fell asleep,
then Craig knocked
on the window.
It was only midnight.
You remind me
so much of your mother.
It's astonishing.
Honestly,
you look just like her.
You act just like her.
You know, she used to sneak out
a bunch when she was a teenager.
Hmm. Oh, yeah,
she thought she was so smart.
Didn't think we knew.
And first, uh, we didn't.
But then, later on,
we definitely did.
We told her not to do it, but...
but ultimately,
we decided not to punish her,
uh, uh, maybe that was wrong,
I don't know.
But I'm not
gonna punish you either. Mm-mm.
I'm your grandmother.
I have done
the parent thing once already.
Besides... you're a good kid.
I told you you reminded me
of your mother,
and that's true.
You do.
But between you and me,
and Craig, if he's
still standing outside
that window, listening...
...you are so much better
than your mom.
Now get to bed
before I change my mind.
And don't you go out
this late again,
you understand?
Hi, is Casey home?
Casey, honey,
you got company.
- Hey.
- Hey, yourself.
Did you record the song?
Oh... I fell asleep.
Ah, bummer.
It's almost noon.
Best to get moving.
I had a late night.
I've snuck out three times.
Once, my older sister got
our mom's car keys
and just drove us around.
- Does she have
a driver's license?
- No!
And the car was
a stick shift too.
- I bet we stole it
half a dozen times.
I'm not allowed in anyone's car
without an adult.
Me either.
So, uh, I got an idea
of how you could get
The Police album.
Is it legal?
Yeah, it's totally legal.
Okay. What?
Have you gone to a pawn shop?
I'm not pawning anything.
- Where the sun beats down
Like a cattle brand
No sign of water
But you quench my thirst
You're the only one living
And still you burn
You're a sight
To see, so fierce...
Sorry if I made you mad,
I didn't--
I shouldn't
have acted like that.
No way of knowing.
Knowing what?
My mom once pawned
pretty much everything we own,
including this jam box.
I know a guy
who pawned his guitar.
He said it was a great way
to get a loan,
then you can buy back later.
Yeah, it was her idea,
but not how it works in reality.
Well, you obviously got
your jam box back.
Yeah. My dad bought it
back for me.
...just flowers...
So, what's up with your dad?
Is he dead or what?
Craig thinks he is.
He's not dead.
Is he in a coma?
...I wanna hold you
-I wanna hold you close...
-He's in prison.
Oh!
Wow. Okay.
How long?
Until I'm 25.
-So, pretty much forever?
-Yeah, a long time.
What'd he do?
He didn't kill anyone,
if that's what you're wondering.
Yeah, I kind of was.
One of my favorite places
in the whole world
is an arcade.
You don't have to think
about anything
other than blowing stuff up.
You don't have to think about
what your dad did or didn't do.
He's innocent, by the way.
Takes a lot of quarters
to play games.
I actually have a jar
in my dresser back home,
and every time
my mom buys something,
I ask her for the change.
-You should use that money
to buy the album.
-I don't have it with me.
And that's my arcade money
anyway, not my savings.
-Priorities.
-Exactly.
I got some change
from my grandparents' couch
for this outing.
And Mimi gave me some quarters
-from her purse.
-Your grandma's great.
Yeah, she is.
-No!
-Ooh!
There's no going back.
Now you run on home
to your mother and tell her...
...tell her
everything's all right...
...and there aren't
any more guns in the valley.
Shane.
Hey kid, you got a postcard
from your mom.
...you're hurt!
I'm all right, Joey.
You go home to your mother
and your father...
...strong and straight.
And, Joey... take care of them.
You get in trouble
the other night?
I heard you talking
to your grandma.
No, she was cool.
She's not gonna tell
my mom... right?
-Doubt it.
-Why didn't you invite me
to sneak out?
I don't know.
I do.
Casey and Craig,
sitting in a tree.
K-I-S-S-I-N-G--
Ew, please!
I-- I was just bored.
I am pretty boring.
No, that's not what I mean.
Craig's got a crush!
Shut up! That's not true.
-Yeah, it is.
-I heard that.
I got a postcard from my mom.
Now she's saying
she won't be here until
right before my birthday.
That's right before Labor Day
and school starting back.
At this rate,
I may never go home.
-Maybe you should
just stay here.
-Who knows? I might.
Let's take her to the garden.
I'm not sure she's ready.
She's ready.
Lift my shoulders back up
Like I never lost
And pretend it's right
- I made amends
But I can't see light
It's bending through me
Into the night
I made ya holy
It wasn't right
You told me
I don't have to decide
You hold my hand
Like it's the last time
-I hold it tightly
And never mind
-Mind...
-Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
-What are we waiting for?
-Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
-What are we waiting for?
Oh, oh
Oh, oh
- I used to go fishing
with my dad a lot
when I was younger.
He actually once hired us
a fishing guide.
Talk about a weird job.
This guy would take you
out on his boat
and show you
the best places to fish.
Well, if you've ever
been fishing,
you know that that's hard to do,
so you end up
sitting around all day,
maybe getting
a few bites here and there,
but rarely actually
reel in a fish.
But... when you do,
it's a joyous feeling.
It can't really be
expressed in words,
you've waited all day,
and then bam, you get that bite.
So, you cast the lure
into the water
and your heart starts pumping
as you yank it back
and set the hook.
You reel and reel,
slowly at first,
then faster
as you feel it fight.
Then, you bring that prize
towards the boat
and your dad readies the net
as you pull the fish
out of the water.
Sometimes, after all that,
it's just a tree branch,
not a fish at all.
Then you have
to start over again or...
...try something different.
Sometimes I wanna know
If everything is real
It could all be in my head
It's the thing
That makes you feel
Hey, there.
Back for that Police album?
Oh, hey. No, just browsing.
Cool.
Oh, hey, that friend of yours,
she isn't here with you, is she?
-No, why?
-Just remembered
she was looking for that, uh,
five-finger discount.
What?
The record she put
under her shirt.
Oh, that.
She was just joking around.
I know, I'm just kidding.
She ended up buying
some other ones anyway.
Sh-- she bought some records?
Yeah, I can't remember,
a couple 45s.
Loverboy and Foghat.
Let me know if you need
any help, alright?
Do you need something else?
Do you need any help
around here?
-Like a job?
-Yeah.
How old are you?
How old do you need to be?
Well, 14 is the minimum
working age in Texas,
or at least I think
that's right.
But I know kids
younger than that
can throw papers.
-Paper route?
-Yeah.
I'm only here for the summer.
I'm looking
for something temporary
and cooler than throwing papers.
Oh, "cool," like, um,
sweeping the floors,
cleaning the toilets,
taking out the trash?
I just need some money
to buy some music.
Oh, "Don't Stand
So Close to Me"?
That's the one.
So, are you 14?
Yes.
Okay. Come back tomorrow.
I'll ask my boss.
- Hello?
-You'll never guess what I just did.
-The suspense is killing me.
-I'll tell you
when you get here.
But you're not 14.
- He doesn't know that.
-And I thought I was the rebel.
I don't have any ID or obviously
a driver's license to show them,
- so they can't
easily check my age.
Hmm.
I like this. Almost like
your own private clubhouse.
Yeah, kind of.
What happened to recording
the song off the radio?
I guess I'm giving up.
By the way... I know you paid
for those records the other day.
You didn't steal 'em.
-Craig told you?
-If in so many words,
but... really, it was Stewart,
the record store guy.
He told me
you bought them today,
I guess, while I was
in the bathroom.
Yeah.
I just wanted you
to think I was...
...I don't know, cool, you know?
I already think that.
-You do?
-Of course, and...
...my dad's in jail,
so being a thief...
...isn't really that cool to me.
-I'm sorry.
-No need to apologize.
Now that I'm getting my own job,
I'll be able to buy
all the records I want.
-Have you ever had a job?
-No, I'm only 13.
-You mean 14?
-Right.
How's the burger?
It's great, Poppy, thanks.
What a surprise,
a kid who likes a burger!
Next thing you know,
you'll be telling me
you like pizza too.
Yeah, I like pizza.
Oh, uh...
...I got a job.
Not yet, officially,
but I applied.
At a record store.
Well, why do you need a job?
Wanna buy stuff.
Well, what does
the 13-year-old need to buy?
Records, mainly.
Thought you'd be excited for me.
Oh, we are! We are!
We're-- it's very exciting!
It's not a real job,
it's just sweeping floors,
cleaning toilets,
stuff like that.
Well, sounds like
a real job to me.
Sounds like
a real bad job to me.
Are you old enough to get a job?
I thought you had
to be, like, 16.
Actually, it's 14,
so technically no,
but I kind of lied.
Well, now you really are
reminding me of your mother.
Hi, is Stewart in yet?
Uh, no, Stewart's not in.
Can I help you with something?
No, sir. I was just supposed
to meet him here today.
-Casey?
-Yes, sir, that's me.
I got something for you,
from Stewart. Hold on a sec.
Are you his boss?
I own the place.
You must love music.
Not really.
Tell Stewart thanks.
Yeah.
Casey.
Stewart was right about 14
being able to legally work,
but, uh, we only hire
15 and older.
That's cool. It's really cool.
Why don't you come back
next summer when you're older?
I don't think I'm gonna be here
next summer.
I'm actually only 13, anyway.
He just gave it to you?
Yeah. He wrote me
a note explaining.
"We got a shipment of records
in last night,
including one copy
of The Police single
'Don't Stand So Close to Me'."
He put all caps
for the word "one."
"That single is still
really hard to get,
but I grabbed it for you.
Enjoy it.
And sorry
about the job. Stewart."
Wow, it's so cool.
Yeah, I guess he felt bad.
So, how's it sound?
Do you see a record player?
I don't have a record player.
What about your grandparents?
Whoa, this thing is great!
Vintage, but unfortunately...
...it doesn't work.
First thing I tried.
- Do you have a record player?
- -No, my dad took ours in the divorce.
but I know who does.
It's called a turntable,
not a record player.
Whatever, can we use it?
-It's not mine,
it's my brother's.
-Can't you borrow it?
No! I-- even if I could,
how are you gonna get
that turntable audio
into your jam box?
I don't know.
You have to have it
wired properly.
It's not magic.
You can't play it,
and it just goes
through the air.
You have to buy cables
from RadioShack.
Yeah, she knows that.
This is great. Just great.
Nice going.
What? I can't help her.
I can't!
Oh, my God!
Casey, honey, you in there?
Hey, Mimi, what's up?
There's a phone call for you.
- Casey?
- Okay, Mimi, I got it.
Did you pick up yet?
Yeah, Mimi, you can hang up.
I'll hang up.
Oh, sorry.
-It's okay.
-I dropped the phone!
Mom?
I'm not your mom, and wow,
do you need your own line.
Sorry about that.
I figured she was calling to say
she's never coming back.
Can you meet me later tonight?
Maybe. What time?
You'll probably have
to sneak out.
- You got it?
- Yep.
His house is up on the right.
- Nice house.
- His dad's a plumber.
He evidently makes
a lot of money.
You ready?
I guess.
He didn't even try to help
with that record player.
He so deserves this.
Oh, hey there, Craig!
-Is Casey home?
-Well, she sure is!
Let me go get her.
I am so glad you kids
have become friends!
I'm sorry, Craig.
She just informed me
that she's not feeling well.
-She got the flu?
-No.
No, I don't think
it's anything like that.
I think she probably
just stayed up too late.
Can you tell her I wanted
to invite her to a party?
It's a TV watch party, actually,
for this new cable channel.
Well, tha-- that sounds
interesting. When is it?
Tomorrow night, at my house.
And I assume your parents
are gonna both be there.
Unfortunately, yes.
That's so weird.
I know. He didn't mention it
at all to my grandmother.
He talked to my mom.
I was avoiding him too.
No mention of it.
-I don't get it.
-Me either.
You should bring
that Police single
and your jam box anyway.
Maybe we can hijack
his brother's record player
and finish your tape.
What's going on?
What'd you do?
I broke it.
- No!
- Accidentally.
Oh!
-Wow.
-Yep.
Casey, we need to talk.
- What's up, Mimi?
You sound all serious.
- Oh, well...
we got this letter
in the mail from an attorney.
From Craig's parents?
No, from your father,
his attorney.
Why would Craig's parents
be sending us a legal notice?
No reason. Never mind.
What's it about?
Well...
...as you may or may not know,
your mother is
your father's legal contact,
even though they're divorced.
-I... didn't know that.
-No.
And, because she doesn't have
a permanent address,
which you well know...
...we told her she could use
our address
for important correspondence,
but I never expected
to get anything like this!
Is my dad okay?
Oh, he's fine.
According to this,
they have been...
...working on getting him
an early release.
Apparently,
the main case against him
might get thrown out on appeal
on a technicality,
which is the only thing
that makes sense,
because you and I
and everybody in the world
-knows he stole that money!
-I don't know that.
I know, honey.
I-- I know. That's fine.
You're his daughter,
but he did it.
Does Mom know?
I doubt it.
She's living it up
5000 miles away in Paris.
I always wanted to go to France.
This street looks totally
different during the day.
Yeah, it does.
Says it's right up here.
Must've cleaned it up.
Are you sure
this is the right house?
I'm sure.
Hey, what's up?
Just admiring the neighborhood.
You see,
our neighbors got rolled!
-The neighbors?
-Yeah, the other night.
They don't even have any kids!
You should've seen the old man
out there trying to clean it up.
He was not happy.
I thought it was funny.
Wow, that's a mess.
I thought you said
we were having a party.
-Where is everyone?
-It's just us.
I mean, it's not a keg party.
You have a pool?
Yeah.
This is cute.
My mom's idea.
Uh, does she think we're seven?
Parents didn't want us
in the house.
Actually, my brother,
but same difference.
Where are your parents?
In their bedroom, like always.
They let my brother's friends
hang out all the time,
and they go hide.
Hmm! Hi there!
You must be Casey.
Uh, y-- yeah.
Nice to meet you.
I'm Craig's mom.
Oh--
I've heard all about you.
Uh, do you know my grandmother?
Yes, I do. Well, and Craig.
He's such a good gossip.
I'm so sorry about your father.
He's so young. He's
the same age as Craig's dad!
Thanks, but my dad's not dead.
I understand, sweetheart.
It's tough. I get it.
-If there's anything
that we can do--
-No, I think you misunderstood
-my grandmother, 'cause--
-Oh, I know you!
-How are you, Carrie?
-Great! Thanks
for having us over.
Oh, absolutely!
I hope you guys enjoy the show.
It's not a show, Mom.
Well, whatever it is,
I hope you like it.
So, um, your brother
and his friends
are gonna be here in an hour.
You know how he is.
Just-- oh, God,
just stay out of his way.
And be sure to get
something to eat, girls.
We got this, uh, ice cream.
It is so yummy. It's chocolate
with these little bits
and marshmallows and--
oh, I can't remember
what it's called,
but it is good.
Rocky Road!
It's called Rocky Road.
Okay. Enjoy.
What did your grandma
say to my mom?
She said that my dad
was dead to her
because of what he did,
not that he was actually dead.
Yeah, my mom drinks
a lot of wine,
like, all day every day,
so, yeah, not surprising.
I'll be right back.
Do you like Rocky Road?
Never had it.
I hate it.
She'll get mad
if we don't eat it.
You heard about MTV, right?
Music Television?
MTV?
That isn't on TV.
- It was on TV
the other day.
Uh, cable TV. Not here, though.
- We have, uh, cousins
who live in New Jersey...
...and that's the only place
you can see it right now,
so they taped the launch
of the channel
and sent us a copy.
Sent it to my brother,
but my mom is making him
let us watch it.
I, uh,
haven't seen this yet myself.
...T-minus ten,
nine, eight, seven,
six, five, four-- we've gone
for main engine start.
We have main engine start.
Ladies and gentlemen,
rock and roll.
So this is what cable TV is.
Uh, sorry, uh,
the tape must have messed up.
I think I just hit puberty.
Just got word from my mom.
Surprise! Change of plans again.
She's coming back earlier now.
Not sure what's up,
but I'm going home in two days.
But if my dad is really gonna
get out of jail early,
I wanna live with him
back in California.
I like it here in Texas and all,
but it gets really hot
during the summer
riding skateboards.
I've never sweated
so much in my life.
We should have a party
for your birthday.
My birthday isn't
for three weeks,
and I'm leaving
the day after tomorrow.
Let's do an early party, then.
I don't need a party.
No one needs a party.
There's no time.
There's always time
for your party.
You girls have fun?
We did.
Thanks for the ride, Mimi.
Anytime.
Okay, we're here.
Oh.
Here you go.
Well...
...I guess you could start
packing up your room, Casey.
I just can't believe
the summer's almost over.
Be right there.
Do you want some help?
Thanks, but it's
not that much, actually.
Oh.
Okay.
Well, uh, I'll catch up
with you later, then.
Yeah, sure.
Oh, and let's do something
before my mom gets back in town.
Maybe the arcade again?
Definitely.
You know, pizza has all four
of the basic food groups in it.
- You have your protein,
you have your dairy,
you have your grains,
and then, of course,
you have vegetables
if you order it that way.
-This is only pepperoni.
-Well, yeah, I know.
We don't wanna be too healthy.
We haven't heard anything else
back about your father...
...but if and when we do,
you'll be the first to know.
I don't wanna get my hopes up.
I've, uh--
I had a really good time
with you guys this summer.
Oh, well, maybe,
maybe you could
come back next summer.
-Maybe.
-We could have hamburgers
and pizza every day.
Yeah.
Well, you've got one day
left here this summer,
so, what you got planned
for tomorrow?
Nothing.
I have to admit,
I told a very small lie
to my grandparents.
My plan for tomorrow is not
actually to do nothing.
My plan for tomorrow is the same
as it's been all summer,
to record that Police song
off the radio.
Now, but I have to admit,
I got frustrated and distracted
and really lost my focus
when that record got involved,
but my mission is the same
as it was back in June.
I've got ten songs on my list.
I've got one to go.
So, on my last full day here,
I can confidently say
I will record that song.
It's more than a feeling
-More than a feeling
-When I hear that old song
-They used to play
I begin dreaming
-More than a feeling
-More than a feeling
-'Til I see
Marianne walk away
- I see my Marianne
Walkin' away
- Hey, Q102.
- Yeah, hi!
-Uh, can I request a song?
-What you got?
-"Don't Stand So Close to Me."
-Cool, kid.
-What's your name?
-Casey.
Okay, Casey,
we'll get that one on for you.
- Certs is two,
two, two mints in one.
With Retsyn.
Be certain with Certs.
Happy birthday!
I told you there was
always time for a party.
Make a wish.
Okay, um...
Oh, crap.
Do you guys wanna come in?
I got there on the radio.
I thought you gave up on that.
Still can't believe
you got through.
Yeah, I know, right? Finally.
But I'm still waiting
to record it.
Ugh!
This chair sucks!
It's antique.
It's not supposed to be
comfortable.
Q102. Texas' Best Rock.
I know it's not
your birthday yet,
but obviously, we're not
going to be around when it is.
So...
Casey...
...could you come
out here, please?
Yeah, Mimi, hold on a sec.
If that song comes on,
can you hit record for me?
Will do.
I just want you to know...
...that you will always
be welcome here.
What's going on?
No matter what happens.
Dad? What are you doing here?
I can't believe it.
- How are you, kiddo?
- I'm great.
Is this real? Am I dreaming?
Oh, hey, hey, hey, hey, hey,
hey, hey, hey, easy.
You're not dreaming.
What are you doing here?
- I got out.
- When?
Oh, I don't know. About, uh,
24 hours ago.
How?
Your mom snuck a screwdriver
into a loaf of bread
she sent me.
Chiseled my way through two feet
of solid concrete.
No, I know you're lying,
Mom would never help you.
Uh, it's a long story,
but, uh...
...uh, basically,
my case got tossed on appeal.
Uh, my attorney sent
a letter to, to your,
to your grandparents.
I know, but...
what does that mean?
It means I'm free, kiddo.
I'm free.
So, you didn't do it?
Uh, didn't do what?
Take that money?
Uh...
All that matters now is I'm out,
and I'm here with you.
What are you doing
here in Texas?
- Your mom brought me.
- Quit doping around.
I'm serious.
- My mom?
- Yeah.
She's gracious enough
to pick me up from the airport.
Uh, I'm thinking
of moving here, actually.
But I thought if you got out,
we could go back to California.
Uh-- oh, I don't know,
kiddo, uh--
Maybe one day.
You kno-- I got, I got a lot
to figure out right now.
Oh. Okay.
I'm just so glad to see you.
-It's been such a long time,
and, and, and I'm--
-Where's my mom?
U-- uh, she's out front.
I just wanted
to come in and say "Hi" first.
Okay.
Everything okay?
My dad's here.
He's out of jail?
Y-- yeah. I-- I don't know how,
but he's here.
My mom's here too.
-I think I might be in shock.
-Maybe you should sit down.
The song hasn't played.
I'm running out of time.
I-- I gotta go talk to my mom.
Maybe you guys should go.
I wanted to give you
a birthday gift first.
Oh, that's sweet,
but you don't need
to give me anything.
Hey, Casey.
Honey, we need to talk.
Oh, hey, Mom.
Yeah, give me a sec.
Didn't think
you were coming till tomorrow.
I've got some friends over.
Yeah, well, plans changed.
That's an understatement.
Hi.
Hey.
How's it--
Sorry. You first.
How's it going?
Okay.
I guess.
I still am really confused
to why my dad's sitting
in the kitchen right now.
Jesus Christ, Casey,
I thought you'd be happy.
I-- I am!
I am.
Just, I'm confused.
-About what?
-Th-- everything. Why he's here?
He's got nowhere else to go.
Are you guys back together?
Oh! God, no.
I can't stand your father,
you know that.
But I was married
to the bastard for 12 years,
and... he is your dad.
And I don't wanna see him
homeless or anything.
So, we'll help him.
Or you will, I don't know.
We're gonna help?
We can't even take care
of ourselves.
Paris sucked,
in case you were wondering.
- You said it was great
in your postcard.
- Yeah, well...
...it was until that asshole
didn't ask me to marry him.
I'm sorry.
Men are like taxis.
Wait a few minutes
and another will come around.
I gotta go talk to my friends.
Yeah, whatever.
Um, just don't take
too long, okay?
I wanna hit the road.
Mom?
Yeah?
Never mind.
So, I have to go.
-Right this second?
-Pretty much.
N-- none of my business,
but your family's
freaking crazy.
Yeah, we're not exactly
The Waltons, that's for sure.
I got you these concert tickets.
What?
You didn't have to do that.
How much did these cost?
Don't you wanna know
who it's for?
Please tell me it's not Rush.
It's not Rush.
But it is another Canadian trio
that I'm sure you've heard of.
Triumph?
Oh, my God!
I love Triumph!
I could only get two.
It's at Reunion Arena,
so I thought
maybe you and Carrie could go.
I, I don't know
any Triumph songs.
I'll go with you.
-You will?
-Yeah, but don't get
too excited.
-It's not a date.
-No!
No, it-- definitely not.
You do realize I live in Dallas,
which is like three hours
away from here.
My brother will take me.
He's going too.
I got the tickets
from his friends, actually.
Some scalpers.
Ladies and gentlemen,
rock and roll.
-Hold on
-Hold on to your dreams
-Hold on
-Even though it seems
Everyone around you
Has their little schemes
Listen to your heart
-Oh, hold on
-Hold on
To your dreams
Can't you feel the magic
Just feel it everywhere
Can't you hear the music...
...three o'clock here with...
I hope you have time
to record the song
-before you have to go.
-...Zeppelin coming up.
That new one from Foreigner
and some Bad Company too.
But let's kick it off with one
of our most requested tunes
this afternoon.
People have been calling about
this one all day.
One from that
general hospital star,
you know the one,
Rick Springfield
and "Jessie's Girl."
Right here on Texas' Best Rock.
What are you doing?
I want you'd have it.
Even though is not
officially finished.
I figured that's what
you wished for
when you blew out
your birthday candle.
I already got my wish.
Thanks for the mixtape.
I'll listen to it all the time.
Sorry I didn't get
that one song.
I really did try.
You do know
what the song's about, right?
Not really.
I just love the drums.
Do you know that Stuart Copeland
had his own punk band?
No.
I don't know a ton
about music like you,
but I did hear
the song is about Sting...
...when he was a teacher.
Oh, yeah, right,
I knew about that.
One of his girl students
had a crush on him,
or it was the other way around.
Not sure.
Oh, really?
- Yeah, I mean,
it's right there in the song.
Young teacher,
schoolgirl fantasy.
I'm more of a music person,
not really a lyrics person.
I guess I never thought
about it like that.
Not sure it's true.
Let's say it's not.
"Shane...
...come back.
Come back, Shane."
See you guys next summer.
Who's Shane?
It's my dad's favorite movie.
-You know that.
-Please don't start fighting.
We're not.
We're not fighting.
It's just he should know that.
Yeah, uh, sorry, I, I, I forgot.
I thought...
maybe he had dementia.
-It's a movie.
-Yep, I got it.
-I remember now.
-Can we go now?
Looks like you had fun
after all.
Yeah.
I did.
...ooh, every
Little thing you do
You're number one, babe
- When you say that I am
Gonna be the one...
...I get the sweetest kind of
Feeling in my heart
That only love gets
Mm, mm
When you whisper
That I'm everything you need
And put your sweet lips
Next to mine
I must confess that
I still really can't believe
The sweetness I feel inside