Roadie (2011) Movie Script
1
( rock music playing )
Man:
I mean come on, Bobby.
I mean fuck, man.
I deserve better than this.
You left me in the middle
of Buttmunch, Michigan,
for Christ's sake!
What?
Look, I... I... I am grateful.
Yeah, I know.
It was good times.
We were big.
We did things.
I know, and I appreciate
the whole ride, man, but...
come on.
I was the best roadie
you ever had, dude.
Hello?
Bobby, can you hear me now?
Fuck, man.
They're taking Ronnie Binder?
Wait a minute.
How can they take
Ronnie Binder and not take me?
What? Because I've got seniority
over that guy, that's why.
I know, I know, I know,
it's not your problem,
but they fucking ditched me
for fucking Ronnie
fucking Binder?!
Those fucking ungrateful
motherfuckers!
( panting )
Yeah, I'm okay. Yeah.
No no no no, I'll even lift.
Oh.
Yeah.
Sure. No, I'll check in
with you next summer.
Right.
Look, I'm willing to cut my rate.
It's just... I just... I gotta be
on the road, you know?
It just doesn't
feel right not touring.
You know what
I'm talking about, right?
Uh... well,
hey, do you think
I could come out to LA
and just crash on your couch
while you're gone?
Just for a little while.
Just till I get my shit going.
You got kids?
Since when?
17 and 14?
Wow.
( lighter flicks, clatters )
( crowd cheering )
( man speaks )
Yeah.
( Rock music playing )
Parched land, no desert sand
The sun is just a dot
And a little bit
of water goes a long way
'Cause it's hot
Three good buddies were
laughing and smoking
In the back of a rented Ford...
( Bus engine rewing )
They couldn't know
they weren't going far
Oh no
Each one with the money
in his pocket
Could go out and buy himself
a brand-new car
But they all had
The money they had,
money they hoped
Would take them very far...
Cabbie: You're smoking in my car?
What are you doing?
- No no, two seconds, that's all.
- Put it out right now.
- All right. All right.
- You put it out or get out now, okay?
- Make a left on Met.
( cabbie mumbles)
I'm not going to miss anything.
You just asked me
which way to go.
- I told you, I'm from here.
- There's no left here.
Dude, you're killing me.
You asked me. I'm telling you.
Stop avoiding me, Bobby.
I'm gonna keep calling you
until you tell me
why the fuck you lied to me.
You owe me, man.
- You want to get out here?
- Yeah.
Look, I deserve an explanation.
- You pay and you go.
- Yeah, I'm just having a conversation.
- Listen, Bo...
- No, pay now and go.
You're taking me
to South America with the band.
It's the right thing to do.
Just... just call me.
( music fades )
My bag! on shit!
Bud!
Fuck!
( exhales deeply )
( doorbell chimes )
Mom.
( laughs ) Jimmy
God.
When was the last time
I saw you?
I don't know.
Not since Dad died.
Has it been that long?
It was around that.
How have you been?
You never called me.
Yes, I... of course I did.
I called you...
I called you on your birthdays.
I called you all the time.
( laughing )
I can't believe it's you.
You look good.
- Liar.
- No, you do.
- You look the same.
- You think?
- Yeah, of course.
- You don't.
- I got a little older.
- Put on a little weight.
Not... not really.
Well, you must be hungry.
I'll make you a sandwich.
That sounds good.
I'll do my tuna melts
with the provolone,
pepper and garlic.
- Oh!
( both laughing )
I've actually... I really miss that.
I'm so happy you're here.
- Me too.
- I've got two big pins in me.
Last year when I went
to see your Aunt Marie,
I set off the metal detector
in the airport.
- That must've been something else.
- You should call her.
- Who?
- Your aunt.
- She lives in Florida now.
- Really?
You should call her.
She's your godmother, Jimmy.
- I know, I will.
- When?
Oh my God.
This is still here.
Where are your bags?
I'm just here for the day.
- But I could do your laundry.
- No, that's all right.
The band's starting a big South
American tour. I've gotta get back.
I gotta start arranging things.
Taking care of the garden,
there's always something.
This damn hip.
Do something for me.
- What?
- The dryer... basket's on the washer.
I need you to carry up
some laundry for me.
Oh. Yeah sure.
It'd be nice
if you could stay longer.
Yup. I can't, Ma, really.
The band needs me.
Always the band.
The Blue yster Colt.
Cult.
Blue yster Cult.
They worship the devil.
They're nice
Long Island boys, Mom.
Believe me.
Mom:
You could've done other things.
- Like what?
- Your father and me,
we always thought you'd be
a terrific teacher.
Too late for that now.
( dryer closes )
- Hey, are you all right?
It comes and goes.
You could still be a teacher.
It's never too late
to reinvent yourself.
Yeah, but why reinvent
what's already perfect?
Hey, you still have those.
You should start
using them again.
I work out.
I can see.
Fold for me.
I'm not too good at that.
It's just folding. Please.
Remember this picture?
It's Dad.
He had a gift for music.
- It was his heart.
- That's where I got it from.
- You never played an instrument.
- Yes, I did.
- I played some guitar.
- You only get out what you put in.
If you want success, you have
to work through the hard part.
I'm doing all right
with what I got.
Got. Speak good.
You're a high school
graduate, please.
I like what I have.
I like what I do.
I don't know
what that is, Jimmy.
Ma, I've done
the same job my whole life.
But you never came home
to tell me about it.
Your father's funeral...
if you were here more than a day...
The band was starting
the Japanese tour.
- I had to get back.
- And if we ever talked on the phone
about this, I don't remember.
Okay.
I manage the band, Mom.
I arrange their tours.
I've even written and produced
a few songs for 'em.
- That sounds important.
- Well, it is.
They would be lost without me.
I'm indispensable.
I'm very proud.
Well, thanks.
And that's why
I can't stay too long.
They're like a bunch
of 60-year-old kids.
If I'm gone too long,
it's like leaving the inmates
in charge of the asylum.
I'll get lunch ready.
I wanted more children
after you were born...
a girl... but your father
didn't have the patience.
It's very hard being alone.
Sometimes I go to bed
wishing I won't wake up.
(drawer thumps)
I thought we were out!
Thank God. The pepper is very important.
Did you see your room?
- No, not yet.
- Go. Go see your room.
( Soft rock music playing )
If you stand in the light
You get the feel of the ride
And the music that plays
In your ears
In your head you can hear...
- Mom: Jimmy, we need butter!
- What?
- We're out of butter!
- What?
- Stop with the screaming!
- Come here and talk to me!
( music stops )
What's up?
Go to the Mullers', see if they
have an extra stick of butter.
- You don't need to use the butter.
- I always make it with the butter.
- I'll go to Met Ave and get the butter.
- Just go to the Mullers'.
They're right next door
and they'd love to see you.
I'd rather spend the time
I've got with you.
It takes two minutes.
Marilyn Muller has been
a very good friend of this family.
- I know. I'm...
- Just go. Say hello.
The sweet butter in the blue box.
Marilyn uses that too.
No one's home.
- The Mullers weren't in.
- Last year I had nice tomatoes.
You know, I'm actually
not very hungry right now,
so can we eat later?
I thought you had
to go to South America?
Yeah, I do,
but it's not till next week.
I called the guys.
I told 'em to chill out
while I hangs
with my mom a little.
- That'd be good.
- So we'll eat later, okay?
- I'll make your lunch.
- Yeah, but later.
I still need the butter,
the sweet kind in the blue box.
All right, I'll stop at the deli.
Need anything else?
A red pepper.
Okay, I'll get you
another red pepper.
Hey, I can help you
in the garden now if you want.
No, I'm almost done.
Get the butter,
see the old neighborhood.
It's probably changed, right?
Nothing changes,
Jimmy.
( Rock music playing )
( people arguing )
Come on, man. Just give me
my 42 and we can go.
- Sophie, you give him right change?
- Yes. See?
- I gave you the right change.
- What it say there?
I don't need more of this garbage.
Just give me my money!
This don't mean anything.
Look at all this.
It's just 42. Relax.
- Boy: 42.
( man speaks Spanish )
( acoustic guitar playing )
Woman: And it all seems
kinda funny, like a dream
Things ain't always
what they seem
What a shame
What happened to Jayne...
Woman:
That vocal mike is feeling better.
Like a little brighter maybe.
- Hey.
- Woman 2: Hey.
So what can I get you?
I'll take a Bud
and a shot of Wild Turkey.
You got it.
(woman continues singing )
Jimmy: Thanks.
- You look familiar.
- Really?
Yeah.
Uh, Testagross, yeah?
Yeah, from Loubet Street.
Your dad used to play the trumpet
at the church dances.
The cornet.
Yeah, he used to do that.
Yo, Suede, it's Testagross.
- I'm sorry, what was your first name?
- Jimmy.
Jimmy Testagross
from Loubet Street.
His dad used to play the trumpet
at the church dances.
- Cornet.
- The cornet.
I love these old guys.
( Chuckles )
- Testicles! Holy shit.
It's me... Randy.
- Randy Stevens.
- Oh!
- Randy.
- Both: Holy shit.
- How you doing?
- How you doing?
- I'm doing good.
- Wow!
Shit. Jimmy Fucking Testicles.
What's it been?
Like 25 years, right?
- Yeah, something like that.
- You're still doing that rock shit?
Yeah, on tour forever.
What was that band
you worked for again?
- It was...
- Blue Oyster Cult.
BC! Right, man.
You used to lug
their shit around like a...
- A roadie.
- Roadie, right.
No, that was a long time ago.
I'm their manager now.
Man... no shit?
Yeah, for like the last 10 years.
I also...
I write and I produce for them.
- Songs?
- Yeah, songs.
Yeah, we're going back in the studio
in a couple of months.
- All new stuff.
- Well, look at you.
Pretty fucking cool.
- Yeah.
- Jimmy Fucking Testicles.
You know, we're not
in high school any more.
What?
The whole Testicles thing...
I mean, come on, you know.
Sorry.
Fuckin' A.
So what you been up to?
I took over my...
took over my dad's dealership.
- On Woodhaven?
- Yeah, same place.
The old man passed away.
It's all mine now.
- Cool.
- Hey, Lizette, mami,
another round of whatever
Testicles is having.
So, you married?
- Me? No, just the road.
- Yeah, I bet you're getting
a heap of that international pussy
living that rock life, right?
- I do okay.
- Come on,
fucking smrgasbord
of poontang, am I right?
- Yeah, sort of.
- You remember this guy?
Yeah, that's Testagross.
When Lizette was
like 10 years old,
I used to think
"Another eight years
and look out, guys.
We're gonna have
a major heartbreaker on our hands."
And guess who's been trying to get
in my pants since my 18th birthday.
What?
I like hot young Ricans.
- Is that so wrong?
- I don't know.
- Ask your wife.
( chuckles )
Hey, Jimmy Fucking Testicles
getting all the trim.
Who'd'a thunk it?
- So you're married?
- Yeah.
You know her.
Nicole Kochalski.
Nikki.
You were always
on my mind...
- Oh wow.
Diamond shining bright in the sun
- How long?
- 17 years.
Wow. Congratulations.
( chuckles ) You say that
like somebody died.
No. No no no no.
I just...
I'm just jet-lagged, that's all
I wish I never let you go...
She's really good, man.
And who knows?
Maybe you could take her on,
turn her into a star.
Things ain't always
what they seem
What a shame
What happened
to Jayne...
Oh, I don't wanna know
I don't wanna know,
I don't wanna know
Oh no...
She's been playing here
every Sunday night.
People like her.
Gets a good crowd too, you know.
30, 40 people sometimes.
She's just practicing here.
It's like a...
Sound check.
Yeah, a sound check.
And I still hear
of us on the wind
And I still think
of you in the night...
Hey, I gotta make a phone call.
- I'll be right back.
Well, I guess you'll never know
Just how much
I love you so...
Come on.
( Can clatters )
( lighter flicks )
( door closes )
Hey, Nicole.
- Testagross!
( laughing )
- Oh my God. Ooh!
( kisses )
Nikki:
Oh my God.
- How you doing?
- Good, yeah.
Wow. I thought that was
you peeping through.
- Yeah.
- Hey, everybody found each other.
Hey, babe.
That was a good sound check.
- Did... so...
- Can you believe it?
- Testagross.
- God. What have you been doing?
He's big time now.
He's managing Blue Oyster Cult.
Wow, I didn't even know
they were still around.
Yeah, he's writing songs
for their new album.
- We're heading back in the studio soon.
- They still tour?
Yeah yeah, we're going
to South America next month.
Man, so what brings you back?
Are you here visiting your mom?
Just for a couple of days.
She's getting old.
Old? Look at this.
Huh? And this?
- Oh.
- What the fuck is that?
- And look at my Nikki, huh?
- What?
She's all childbearing hips
without the child bearing.
- Hey, fuck you. Fuck you.
- And she still loves me.
( Cellphone ringing )
Randy.
- God, you look good.
- You too.
Thanks.
Are you sticking around?
- It's gonna be a full house tonight.
- For your concert?
- Yeah.
- Absolutely. That's why I came back.
( Both laugh )
- Nikki: Oh man.
- What time do you go on again?
Oh, any time
after 8:00, before 11:00.
Yeah, fuck me!
All right, fine.
Selim didn't show up
to open the service garage.
I've got the only other set of keys.
Frigging towelhead.
- Hey, see you tonight? Come here.
- Yeah.
- Fucking Testicles.
( both laugh )
Hey, don't worry
about dinner, okay?
- I'll pick it up at Olympia's.
- Okay, cool.
Wow.
( laughs )
- He works his ass off.
( SUV beeps, honks )
Hey, you know what?
I'm really done here.
Do you wanna go get
a drink or something?
I should pace myself.
I don't want to be too drunk
before you go on.
Come on, we'll get a coffee.
- Umm...
- Come on.
So are you married, kids?
No, I never found the time.
I haven't even slept
in my own bed in 20 years.
What about you?
No kids?
You know, we thought about it.
Actually we almost had a kid.
It didn't work out.
- Oh.
- It's cool though.
How long you been singing?
I don't remember you doing that.
About 10 years ago.
I always had the performing bug,
but I was a little too self-conscious.
And then Randy's the one
who actually pushed me into it.
He was like "Just give it a shot.
If it doesn't work out,
so what?" So I did it.
I enjoyed it.
That's what matters, right?
- Gotta do what you love, right?
- What's up with the cops?
Oh, I think some kid was causing
some trouble before.
- Woman: Sir, please.
- He jump over the counter
and hit her.
For 42 he hit her in mouth.
- Look.
- Nikki: Yopi honey, what happened?
Officer:
Excuse me, are you family?
- Yeah, I'm a friend.
- No no. Ma'am, please.
Can you wait outside?
We're handling this.
- Yopi honey, who did this to you?
- Woman: Ma'am.
- Nikki: I'm just...
- Woman: Ma'am, please.
- Man: She... she okay.
- I got you. I got you.
Oh, damn it.
Her mom died a few years ago.
Sometimes we do
girl stuff together.
- That's nice of you.
- Yeah, I always wanted a girl.
Girls are good.
Hey, what kind of kid
would you want if you had one?
- Shit. The butter.
- Butter?
Sweet butter in the blue box.
I'm supposed to pick this up
for my mom.
- Okay.
- One sec.
So no room
on the Jimmy Testagross
roster of stars for a beautiful,
not-so-young-any more
- singer-songwriter from Forest Hills?
( chuckles )
You never know.
Serious?
You know, I actually have been thinking
about expanding the business.
You know, maybe...
maybe taking on new talent.
So...
we'll see.
Oh, poor Mr. Muller.
He had a stroke, right?
Yeah, I think two.
Well.
So what time?
About 8:00?
Uh, closer to 9:00.
You won't end up
- waiting around so much.
- Mom: Where have you been?
Hey, Mom.
You remember
Nikki Kochalski, right?
Carol Kochalski's daughter.
- Hello, Mrs. Testagross.
- Nice to see you.
- Did you get the butter?
- And the pepper.
I already have a pepper.
Come in.
I'm making very nice
sandwiches.
- Do you have any coffee?
- Chock full o'Nuts.
Come in before
I catch pneumonia here.
- How are you, dear?
- Nikki: Good. Good.
You look terrific.
Oh, you're a liar.
I like that.
How's your father?
Soaking up the sun in Boca.
I never cared for Florida.
He was with the police?
Oh yeah, 27 years.
Good man.
But Florida?
What's it like seeing my son
for the first time in 20 years?
It made my day.
Yeah, and he looks great.
Oh yes, and there's
more of him to love.
( chuckles )
I'm almost done with my garden.
Can I see?
Sit and talk with Jimmy.
He'll make coffee.
- Mom, can't you make it?
- What are you, four? Make the coffee.
Men are like children.
- Relax. I'm almost done.
- Okay.
- She's adorable.
- That's my mom.
You've never made
coffee before.
- Yes, I have.
- No, you haven't.
( laughs ) Hey, come on.
It's just the road, man.
You know,
it's just greasy spoons
and room service, takeout.
Developmentally stunted
by rock'n'roll.
- Something like that.
- Okay.
( faucet runs )
( switch clicks )
- It just takes a few minutes to brew.
( gurgling ) ( chuckles)
So show me your house.
It's just a living room
and a basement.
A bathroom?
Yeah, we're not cave people.
We have one.
Can I use it?
( both laugh )
- I'm sorry.
- It's right up the stairs.
- Okay, I'll be right back.
( Soft rock music playing )
Nobody feels any pain
Tonight as I stand
inside the rain...
- Nikki: Jimmy!
- Are you all right?
Yeah, come here.
- I want you to show me something.
Baby's got new clothes
Lately I see...
I didn't want to just go in,
but I have to see this.
My bedroom?
It's like a rock'n'roll
museum in there.
- You think?
- Oh yeah, all that vinyl?
- Can I see some?
- Sure.
( Chuckles ) Sure.
Yeah, she does
and she aches
Just like a woman
Yeah, she does
and she breaks...
God, you've got some
great stuff here, Jimmy.
Oh, I mean the Good Rats.
- You have...
- Both: The original Good Rats.
- Oh.
- They were a great band.
Yeah, I always thought
these guys would be huge.
- You know, they're awesome.
- At least they got signed.
Nice.
Hey, can I play this?
Sure. The turntable
should still work.
You still have a turntable.
I love it.
I still have everything.
( Blows) Okay,
That's... mm-hmm.
( Rock music playing )
Wow.
I teach a class
of phony principles
Of mathematics...
Remember we used to see them?
Every Saturday night at Tuey's.
Yeah, me, you and Stephanie.
Steph Scolaro.
( Both laugh )
- Oh my God!
How's she doing?
She, uh... she died, Jimmy.
No. How?
Breast cancer,
about six years ago.
She was only 36.
Can you believe it?
Yeah, two kids and a husband.
I read your advertisement
in the "Voice"...
- Man.
Seeking some companionship...
Oh, this part here, right here.
I love it the way
his voice goes up.
Yeah, I know.
Man, he had that
raspy-voice thing down, huh?
Those were good times, right?
- Tuey's, Good Rats.
- It was real good.
I love to listen
to the melodies
Of Bach and Beethoven
And I think Bowie's a gas
- In '68 I worked for Gene...
- That coffee's ready?
- What's wrong?
- Nothing,
I just don't want
the coffee to get cold.
- Oh, the machine keeps it warm.
- Right.
( laughs)
- I'm making you nervous being here.
- What? No no, I'm not nervous.
You look like
a Chihuahua that's gotta pee.
I am like a dam about to burst.
( laughs ) I'll be right back.
- Okay.
To pass the lonely days...
( music continues )
Seeking some companionship
To pass the lonely days
You made no stipulations
And only signed it "Friend"
Oh, it's 3:00
and I'm alone again...
( vocalizes )
- I can't believe you married him.
That came out of left field.
No, I'm just... I'm just saying that...
- What, it bothers you?
- Randy is a good guy I'm sure, but...
- he's Queens.
- And who am I, Queen Noor?
- No no, just...
- Jimmy, not everyone is like you.
Not everyone can just leave
and make it big, you know.
Maybe Queens is what I am too.
No, at my age, I've never left,
so yeah, I'm Queens
and that's okay.
No, you are more than that.
You have a great voice
and you always had
a great imagination.
Remember that poetry class
we took for extra credit?
- Oh, Jimmy.
- No no no, you were a genius.
Me, I was writing about werewolf
street gangs from hell.
But you... you were writing
about real things...
dreams and desire.
And that's beautiful stuff.
All the women
you've screwed on the road,
and you're still carrying
a torch for me.
They won't play my music so...
I got over us
a long time ago, Nikki.
Listen.
Do I still have
dreams and stuff?
Yeah, of course.
And playing at Timbo's...
it's not much,
but it feeds it
and I'm good with that.
Let me share your fire
and I'll sing a song for you...
You could've done better.
What, my career or my marriage?
I'm sorry I said that.
No, that was rude.
( stammers )
No, you don't like him.
You never did.
The way he treated you... I understand...
the nickname and all that.
I don't focus on the past, Nikki.
It's a waste of time.
That's healthy.
But Randy treats you right, right?
- He's good to you.
- Yeah.
- Yeah, in that Randy kind of way.
( both chuckle )
Look, I know he's a little rough
around the edges,
but he's got a decent heart and...
let's just say that we have
an interesting relationship.
That's good.
Look, Jimmy,
you're not here long so let's share
some old times together, okay?
Mom: Jimmy.
Oh, your son was just showing me
his record collection.
- It's amazing.
- He took very good care of those.
Come here. I want you
to do something for me.
Gone at 38
Gave so much
and yet so much to give...
You've been home an hour and already
you're bringing girls into your bedroom.
( Chuckles ) She's an old friend, Mom.
We're just talking.
- "Talking."
- We're looking at albums.
I'm old, Jimmy, not stupid.
Mom, she's married.
Why did you walk away
from the Mullers'?
Marilyn saw you at the front door.
I rang their bell.
Nobody answered.
I'll make lunch.
- Hey, I should go.
- No no, she's fine, really.
I don't want to be
disrespectful to your mom.
- You're not.
- Well, we can always hook up later
at the bar or something
before my gig.
And we can party and talk about
vampire gangs from hell.
Werewolf gangs.
Werewolf gangs.
So I'll see you later, okay?
- I'll say bye to your mom.
- Yeah.
See you at the bar.
( Rock music playing )
Long misty days
Told me
They would change
their ways
Once in a while
Will come my way
The thrill is gone
Misty days
Linger on and on
Once in a while
Will come my way
Oh, how the moon
Shining
On a lonely room...
Oh fu... Mr. Muller,
what are you?
( chuckles )
How you doing?
Good.
You want some coffee?
I saw the siding on your house.
( Mumbling )
It's eight years old.
Yeah, my mom said
it was new. It, uh...
Yeah, you've been
gone a long time.
Yeah, it's been awhile.
It looks good.
And the siding... it's nice, really.
Maybe you'd like to come over
sometime,
get your car out
of our driveway.
(grunts)
Oh shit. You know,
I gotta make a phone call.
Phone's there.
Hey. No... hey.
It's on my cellphone upstairs.
I gotta get it off that.
Look who rose from the grave.
- Hello, Jimmy.
- Hey, Mrs. Muller.
You and Don have been talking.
That's good.
My son, he looks the same,
I mean bigger but the same, right?
Jimmy, here. Look what we have
from Marilyn's garden,
nice and fresh.
Oh.
You... you maybe think
you could help me
with my garden and we...
we could grow some too.
I tried eggplant. It didn't take.
Marilyn: No, it's the soil.
Don says it's because the neighborhood
was built on a trash dump
in the '40s, right, Don?
Everything is toxic.
Oh, I heard that.
Did you hear that, Jimmy?
I did.
Yeah, I think so. Sure.
- What am I supposed to do with these?
- I told you... wash 'em.
You'd think he's deaf sometimes.
How long are
you back for, Jimmy?
( Faucet running )
- Oh, I'm just back for the day.
I've gotta go back to work.
I've got a lot of stuff going on.
- You like your work?
- Yeah, I do. I love it.
He's going to South America
with his band.
- You must be excited.
- Yeah, I've been there before.
- It's really cool.
- My son, the rock-star butler.
Is that what you do?
You're a butler for the rock band?
No, that's not what I do.
I run the band.
I manage them.
- You know this, Ma.
- I'm never sure with you.
I gotta go. I'm gonna go see
some friends over at Timbo's.
Don and Marilyn aren't friends?
( laughs ) Of course they are.
It was nice seeing you,
Mrs. Muller, Mr. Muller.
I'm gonna be back late, Ma.
Don:
Don't forget your phone call.
Bobby, I swear...
you don't call me back,
I'm getting on a train,
I'm coming to your place in Connecticut
and your wife, she won't like
the scene I'll make.
So just... come on, man.
Please call me.
( People chatter)
Randy: Testicles!
Perfect.
Little Lizette, mami,
four shots of Turkey,
- two beers.
- You got it.
So I get back here,
you and Nikki are gone.
- I needed butter.
- Butter?
- For my mother.
- Butter for your mother.
( Chuckles )
And where'd Nikki go?
I don't know.
Your house, I guess.
My house?
That's what you think.
- Where else would she go?
- I don't know.
Maybe your place?
She came by and said hi
to my mom, yeah.
Oh. What'd your mom
think of you bringing
a married woman up to your bed?
Hey look, Randy, I...
- that is not what you... we didn't...
( laughing )
Testicles, I'm fucking
with you, man.
Nikki told me you still got
those old Good Rats albums.
- Yeah.
- Fucking classic, huh?
Hey, Jimmy, you know we got
your band's song in our jukebox, huh?
Excellent. Hey,
to old songs and old friends.
Holding up the party, dude.
To old friends.
( Randy grunts )
- BC, baby.
( laughs )
So you're hanging
with him tonight?
Yeah, we're going
to see Nikki play.
- I mean before.
- I guess.
Well, watch him with the...
you know, he can get
a little cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs.
( Rock music playing )
- I do.
( Mimics guitar)
- You see what I'm saying?
- You see what I mean?
( laughing )
Solo.
( mimicking guitar)
My heart is black
And my lips are cold
Cities on flames
With rock and roll...
This fucking song is retarded.
Did you write this?
- No, we were kids when they did this.
- I gotta tell you, bro,
I never really got these guys.
I mean the hits...
I like the hits, but this is...
- They're thinking man's metal.
- You're saying?
No. No no no, I don't mean that.
It's what the critics
called 'em, you know?
'Cause you couldn't peg 'em.
Were they metal?
Were they psychedelic?
Were they pop, country-blues?
I mean, they swung.
Metal didn't swing, but they did.
And the drumming? Tfff-tfff.
It got all jazzy,
but underneath that
are heavy riffs.
I mean, Buck Dharma,
his solo on "Dominance and Submission"
is, without question,
the best hard-rock guitar solo
- of the era, hands down.
- Fucking A.
I mean it sums up
everything that came before it.
You know, Hendrix,
Zeppelin, Townshend...
Dharma, he takes
a little from all of them,
he mashes it all together
into one fucking brilliant solo
that says "This...
this is what it's all about."
Rock and roll...
Well, I never understood
- what the fuck they were saying.
( laughs )
No, call me stupid.
I like to know.
That's the beauty of it...
not really knowing.
I mean, "Transmaniacon."
"7 Screaming Diz-Busters."
"Harvester of Eyes."
"Beautiful as a Foot"?
What the fuck, man?
It was like science-fiction
poetry on a turntable,
you know, all these weird worlds
and just..
They were just so much smarter
than everything else that was around.
No, man, BC, they were better.
And they should've
been even bigger.
And my lips are cold...
What songs did you write?
Well, there are a couple
on the last few albums...
independent label. No hits yet.
When did the last album come out?
Eight years.
So when does Nikki show up?
So let the girl, let that girl...
She's waiting for us
at the Capri Motor Inn.
The motel on Woodhaven?
Remember that back in the day,
those parties?
When we'd rent the rooms,
get all fucked up?
- I heard about them.
- What do you mean? You were there.
- No, never.
- I could've sworn you were there.
Anyway, whenever Nikki
does a show,
we always get a room,
play rock star for an hour,
get all fucked up and leave a mess
for somebody else to pick up.
Come on, she's waiting.
( laughs)
All right.
Go.
( Crowd cheering )
( rock music playing )
( laughs ) Whoa.
You know what?
Maybe you should drive.
Do that.
- You've got, like...
- Do the thing.
( Alarm blares, chirps )
( music continues over radio )
I haven't seen that
in a long time.
All right, say hello
to an old friend.
- No, I don't think so.
- Come on.
- No no no.
- Come on.
No no no.
( snorts )
- Shit.
( laughing )
- It's good, right?
- Oh yeah.
- Damn.
- Now we're partying.
( Snorts )
Let me ask you something.
Back in the day,
you wanted to kill me,
didn't you?
- What? No.
- Hey, come on.
I would've wanted to kill me too.
I fucking terrorized you, bro.
I kicked your ass numerous times.
Right?
The Jimmy Testicles shit alone...
I fucking humiliated you
like I was getting points.
- Gimme another hit.
- Oh shit.
- Someone's about to get honest.
( snorts )
Okay, I did.
I almost killed you.
No shit?
- I had it all planned out.
- Oh, this is fucking great, man.
- How?
- Remember Vern the coke dealer?
- The spook from the Lefrak projects.
- Yeah well, I knew
that you bought
your coke from him,
so I started hanging
around his locker.
And I'd covertly...
One day in-between classes,
I broke into his locker,
found his stash
and I laced it with arsenic.
Yeah, that's right.
My Uncle Max used to work
at this chemical factory.
- It was so easy to get.
- That's fucked up, Jimmy.
I took it back.
I mean I stole it back.
It was a stupid idea.
Pure fucking evil.
But understandable.
I was a fucking tool.
Oh shit, pull over.
Dash for freedom, baby,
don't skate on polar ice...
- Be right back.
It's too thick
To be sliced by the light
Of long and white polar nights
It's all right, it's all right,
it's all right, baby I
Yeah yeah,
baby knows it's all right
It's all right,
it's all right, baby...
All right, I'll get it to you tomorrow.
Testicles! Let's go, roll it up.
- What?
- Hey, tomorrow, okay?
What's wrong, motherfucker?
- What are you...
( laughs )
( yelling )
- Did you steal that?
- No.
- He's gonna call the cops.
- Relax, me and Song go way back.
- What?
Let's go.
Mishi-mon! Mishi-mon!
( laughs)
Whoo!
- Here, relax.
Whoo!
- Ichimon!
( both laughing )
- Randy: There it is.
- Wow. Nothing changes.
( Music continues )
Hey. ( laughing )
( rock music playing )
Sheena is a punk rocker
Sheena is a punk rocker
Sheena is a punk rocker now
Sheena is...
- Oh, you're serious.
- Fuck yeah, man.
Look, no brown ones.
It's Nikki's rider.
( Both laugh )
- Randy: Bam!
- Jimmy, you came!
- Hey.
- Oh nice.
- Nikki: Look at you.
- There she is.
- Oh. Here you go.
- Ah.
You think this is all
a little strange, huh?
Um, a little.
- Randy gets a little carried away.
- Anything for my baby.
He has to make a big production
out of everything...
(grunts)
but it's good times.
- Randy: Hey, baby.
- Whoo.
- Oh yeah, oh yeah...
- Gimme a kiss.
- Cheers.
( clinks)
Randy: Just like
high school, right?
A punk rocker, Sheena is
A punk rocker now...
- Exactly.
- Sheena is a punk rocker...
( Randy growls )
( giggles )
- A little fat one for you.
- Oh God. ( laughs)
I've played, like,
Timbo's a million times but...
thanks, babe... I still need
to get lubricated before I go on.
Oh God.
( laughing )
You'd think I'd be over
the stage fright by now, right?
No no no,
bunch of guys in the bands,
for years they couldn't go on
unless they were fucked up.
What did they do after they got clean?
What'd they do?
Well, you know, it wasn't easy.
One of 'em, he went to rehab,
had to do medication
and, you know, therapy
and yoga and shit.
But, you know, in the end
he was okay.
( Snorts )
- Randy: In the end?
- Oh! What?
- In the end?
Yeah, I mean how it ended...
he was fine.
( Snorts)
- Randy: Oh.
( laughs )
- Nikki: Oh crap!
I almost forgot. Oh God.
Check out what I found.
( Snorts )
I downloaded some
recent Cult CDs.
( Music stops )
( rock music playing )
Nikki:
They got a strong beat.
- Did you write this one?
- Yeah, this is mine.
- Nikki: Good. Sing.
- No. ( laughs)
- No.
- Like the way you used to read me
- your poems in high school.
- Is that what you called that shit?
Oh yeah, this coming
from the guy who thinks
"Hustler" magazine
is great writing.
- It is.
- Sing it.
No, I don't...
I don't really remember the lyrics.
It's a long time ago.
It makes me feel like
your husband's dead...
- Yeah.
I'd like to see you in black
We could make him
suffer instead
I'd like to see you in black
I'd like to see you
in black
I'd like
to see you in black
I'd like to see you
in black... I
Come on, Testagross.
Sing it, Testagross.
You can't lie to me, Ann...
( Nikki laughs ) Oh shit.
Jimmy: You can't pretend
he isn't beating you up
I saw the marks on your hand
I saw the blood
on your coffee cup
I'd like to see you in black
I'd like
to see you in black
I'd like to see you
in black I
I'd like
to see you in black
I'd like to see you
in black I
I'd like to see you in black...
- Jimmy!
I'd like
to see you in black
I'd like to see you
in black!
Hey, Jimmy.
( Nikki laughs ) Fuck.
Hey hey hey.
Down, Fido. Come on.
( Music stops )
- Liking that.
It's my turn
to play now for Jimmy.
( Snorts )
- Randy: He's gonna hear it later.
No, it's not ready
for public consumption yet.
- I want his opinion.
- What, mine's not good enough?
- Do you mind?
- No, I would...
- I would love to hear it.
( Nikki chuckles)
Fuck. Nikki.
- Buzzkill.
Oh, where did you go
My sweet child?
No, don't you play
these games with me
I'm up then I fall
and sorry through it all
And loving so blindingly
You came for a time
But you weren't really mine
So you leave me here
just bleeding
I walk through the snow,
too sick to let go
And not ready for the healing
Not ready
For you to leave...
You're nothing
but a ghost in my head
Some hope I have,
something left unsaid
And I didn't re-
Oh, you know what?
I don't like where
it's going right now.
- I think it should...
- It's great the way it is.
( Sighs ) What do you think?
I think it's beautiful.
( Stammers )
This is where it goes now.
Uh, so I...
And I didn't really
know you at all
So how come
I feel so small?
So small?
- Randy: Yeah, that's good.
- I don't know. I don't know.
( Chuckles ) Yes you do.
( laughs )
- Jimmy: Oh, you know.
'Cause... Nikki, you know.
Just do it. Come on.
Hey, breathe.
( Both breathe deeply )
- Jimmy: Lean back.
( Clears throat )
And I didn't really
know you at all
So how come
I feel so small?
So small?
- Try resolving it with a G?
I can't feel you at all...
Oh. G or a C.
G! Yeah!
Way to go, Testicles!
( laughing )
- Shh shh! Sorry, that was rude.
Oh! Ugh! Stop.
- Stop.
- That's all right.
- Randy: Oh shit!
- No, it is not.
- Oh shit!
- Christ. Randy!
Randy!
- I'm sorry, man.
- Randy: Oh shit.
( Randy mutters )
- Nikki: Randy!
Randy: "Resolve that
with a G." ( laughs )
( tuning )
( snaps)
- Nikki: Oh shit!
( laughs )
Oh God. Sorry.
Hey, Randy, could you
get me my strings, please?
- Can't move, babe.
- Jimmy: I'll get it.
Nikki: Oh thanks.
I get too messed up,
my fingers spaz on me.
I'm gonna have to work on that
- when I hit the big time, right?
( Jimmy grunts)
- I'll change it.
- All right, thanks.
- Jimmy: Oh my.
- Nikki: That one's a pain.
- Nice.
- Yeah.
( Chuckles ) ( notes playing )
If you're gonna fuck my wife,
get to it already.
Oh, Randy. Randy.
(grunts ) She goes on in an hour,
so make it quick.
Come on, man.
Let's not do this.
- Come on, man. Just admit it.
- Randy, just stop.
- Stop, okay?
- You wanna fuck my wife.
It's all like
"Hail the Conquering Hero" in here.
Jimmy: I should go.
- No. Randy, tell him you're kidding.
- I should go.
Randy, just tell him
you're kidding.
What? Who the fuck is kidding?
Mr. Bullshit Rock Star
fucking thinks
he can just come in here
and part my wife's legs
like he's fucking Moses or some shit.
It was good seeing you.
Your songs
are nice.
( Glass shatters )
- Oh! Fuck, Randy!
You think you're better than me?
- You almost hit me with that, man.
- I'll hit you with this, you...
Okay okay, everybody chill out.
This fucking guy
is bullshit, Nikki.
Fucking... fucking songwriter?
Manager of what?
Some bullshit
has-been metal bullshit.
- You know what? Fuck you.
- I don't even think you're a manager.
I don't think you've ever
written a fucking song.
- You don't know me, man.
- I know all about you.
Oh, you're a fucking schlepper,
carrying other people's shit,
pretending it's yours.
Yeah, that's you, man.
Jimmy the schlepper.
- You don't know shit.
- Guy thinks he's better than us.
- Randy.
- Jimmy Fucking Testicles.
- Hey, don't call me that!
- You know who called you that?
- Who gave you that name, dude?
- Stop it. Stop it, both of you.
She did
right after you broke up.
Tell him.
( Chuckles )
You were a joke to her, dude.
Your poems,
your songs, your dreams
- and that thimble-sized prick.
- This is crazy.
- Tell him that!
- She knew you were bullshit.
Jimmy Fucking Testicles.
Fucking joke.
- Stop, okay?
- No, I'm having too much fun.
- Stop it or I will walk out of here...
- Fuck the two of you.
- ...you fucking asshole!
- Nikki, don't... hey, Nikki.
- The fuck? Hey hey.
- No.
- Don't you fucking...
- No no, you shut it.
Go apologize to him.
( laughing )
I'm sorry.
It's the coke or something.
Yeah, Jimmy,
it's just the coke talking.
- That's why.
- You know what?
I didn't waste
my life pretending.
This? I did this.
I lived this
in five-star hotels
all around this fucking world.
I said I'm sorry. You know what?
You're everything you say you are.
Yeah, and in a couple of days
me and the band are
going to South America
and we're gonna perform in front
of thousands of people
cheering for us.
And do you know
where you're gonna be?
Right here, pretending.
Ha!
I fucking laugh at you.
Both of you.
Look, it's... this is high school shit.
Come on. Please.
( Door rattling )
( door opens )
( rock music playing )
( sniffs )
That's some honest coke.
Hey! Hey hey...
- Come on.
( girls laugh)
( car honks )
People, what have you done?
Locked Him in His golden cage
Golden cage
Made Him bend to your religion
Him resurrected from the grave
From the grave
He is the god of nothing...
- Come on, bro.
If that's all that
You can see...
- All right.
You are the god
of everything
He's inside you and me...
Hey, this is Jimmy.
Bobby there?
Woman: Jesus, Jimmy,
Bobby doesn't want to talk to you.
- He owes me!
Oh, lean upon Him gently...
Look, you put that
little fucker on the phone.
You're harassing him.
Jimmy, stop!
Becca, you put Bobby...
Becca, you tell Bobby
I am going on that tour with them.
( Becca speaks )
- Becca, you tell that little fuck...
hello?
Uh... fuck!
The bloody Church
of England
In chains of history
Requests your earthly presence
At the vicarage for tea...
Psst!
Psst! Hey!
You got a problem, man?
- You hurt Yopi!
- What?
42, huh?
You little fuck!
- Ah!
- You're crazy, man!
Yeah.
(grunts)
( muffled chatting )
( birds chirping )
( Don grunts)
Huh?
( Mumbling ) You Okay?
Huh? Your mother
was worried.
Your mother was worried.
( laughs)
Rough night, huh?
When I was your age...
( laughing )
I would sleep outside
every Saturday night.
Marilyn wasn't happy...
That's why I stopped
the boozing, huh?
Isn't it a shame?
Should've stopped sooner, huh?
Right? ( laughs )
- Ooh!
( Doorbell rings )
Don:
Look what I found.
(grunts)
- Jimmy!
( running footsteps )
( barfing )
- What the hell did you do?
- Oh, Mom, please.
This isn't right, Jimmy,
a man your age acting like this.
- It...
( coughs) Mom!
Leave me alone!
- Oh shit.
( flushes )
(grunts)
( exhales deeply )
Sorry, Mom.
( Clatters )
I don't appreciate this.
This is my house.
I'm sorry.
You're hurt.
- Sit down.
- No.
Oh man.
( Groans ) Fuck
What did you do?
Did you get into a fight?
Yeah, sorta.
It's a shame you can't
visit your mother
without getting alcoholic.
I'm sorry, okay?
Your father's brother...
bad rummy, always in trouble.
Your father didn't want you
to turn out like Maxie, Jimmy.
Now, God, look at this.
( Crying )
I said I'm sorry, okay?
Jesus. Toughen up.
We're just talking.
I know, Ma, it's just...
- it's just...
- What?
Things are just pretty...
- fucked, Ma.
- You just watch your mouth.
( Crying)
- Oh.
Oh, Christ Almighty.
Would you stop?
All right,
how do you think it looks,
Mr. Muller...
( chuckles )
finding you outside like a bum
and then crying like a two-year-old?
- It's embarrassing...
- I know!
...especially the way you've been
avoiding him and Marilyn.
Oh, would you...
enough already with the Mullers.
( Coughs )
Well, if your father was here...
Yeah, what? Huh?
What?
What is he gonna do?
Huh? Smash my guitar?
- What are you talking about?
- Yeah, Dad smashed my guitar.
- You never played guitar.
- I never...
I Played. I played.
- I don't remember.
- I got some lousy grades or something.
And Dad came home and he went
for the one thing
he knew I loved.
And he El Kabonged
that thing to bits
right in front of my face!
- He never...
- He did! Yes, he did!
I was good, Mom.
I could've been great.
( Crying )
I never even
picked it up again.
I didn't even try.
Dad... he fucked me
out of my dream.
- How dare you?! You...
- He did! And...
Grow the fuck up, Jimmy!
( Huffs)
Lord, forgive me.
Christ Almighty.
There are people
starving in this world.
There are wars.
Mr. Muller had two strokes.
You're complaining?
What's the matter with you?
You manage a band.
You write songs.
( Chuckles )
- Be happy!
For once.
Clean yourself.
I'm going back to bed.
( Door opens, closes )
( doorbell chimes )
Oh my God,
what happened to your face?
Nothing.
I cut myself shaving.
Look, Jimmy, I'm really sorry
about last night.
No worries.
Randy...
he can be an asshole,
but he's really... he's all right.
And he feels bad. He does.
He would've been here now
but he's not feeling so good.
I don't give a fuck about Randy.
( Sighs ) How was the show?
It was good. Yeah, we had
30 people.
Cool.
Look, I just wanted
to come by to say bye
before you took off
on your tour so...
Well, it looks like
I'm gonna be spending
a little more time
in Queens than I thought.
The tour got postponed.
- Well, that's great.
- It means I get to see more of my mom.
Wow.
So I'll see you around.
Yeah.
Good.
Oh.
I hope this doesn't put you out,
but we recorded
the show last night.
And... I don't know...
if you could give it a listen
and if you like it, maybe you could
pass it on to someone.
I'll listen to it.
Thanks.
That means a lot to me.
Well hey, if you ever need help
making coffee, just give me a call.
- Yeah, I'll do that.
- Okay.
- You take care of yourself.
- You too.
- You all right?
- Of course I am.
- What are you doing?
- Planting tomatoes.
Oh! Look at this.
Come on, help me
with the garden.
Come... come on.
Get your hands dirty.
It'll be good for you.
Dig. Here. Not too deep.
Mom, I'm not going
to South America.
The band fired me two days ago.
They're going without me.
( Soft sobs )
I don't manage them.
I never managed them
and I've never written
a single song.
I carry their gear for 'em.
For 26 years,
I carried and I set up their gear.
That's what I do.
Your father and me,
we always knew you'd make it,
that you'd realize your dreams.
- Mom.
- Yeah, we always believed in you.
Mom.
You dig your...
( distant thunder)
( soft rock music playing )
Now the seats are all empty
Let the roadies take the stage
Pack it up and tear it down
They're the first to come
And the last to leave
Working for that minimum wage
They'll go set it up in another town
Tonight the people were so fine
They waited there in line
And when they got up
on their seats
They made the show
And that was sweet
But I can hear the sound
Of slamming doors
and folding chairs
And that is a sound
you will never know
Now roll them cases out
and lift them amps
Haul them trusses down
and get 'em up them ramps
'Cause when it comes
to moving me
You know you guys
are the champs
And when that last guitar's
been packed away
You know that I still wanna play
But just be sure
You got it all set to go
Before you come for my piano
But the band's on the bus
And they're waiting to go
'Cause we gotta drive all night
To play a show in Chicago
Or Detroit
I don't know
We do so many shows in a row
And these towns
all look the same
We just pass the time
in the motel rooms
And we wander
around backstage
Until those lights come up
and we hear that sound
And we remember why we came
Now we've got Country
and Western on the bus
R&B
Man, we've got disco
On 8-tracks
and cassettes in stereo
We have got rural scenes
and magazines
And we've got truckers
on the CB
And we've still got
Richard Pryor on the video
We've got time to think
of the ones we love
While the miles roll away
And the only time
this seems too short
Is the time that we get to play
Because when that morning sun
It comes beating down
You will wake up in your town
But we'll be scheduled to appear
A thousand miles
away from here
Man, you know
I still wanna play.
( music fades )
( rock music playing )
Man:
I mean come on, Bobby.
I mean fuck, man.
I deserve better than this.
You left me in the middle
of Buttmunch, Michigan,
for Christ's sake!
What?
Look, I... I... I am grateful.
Yeah, I know.
It was good times.
We were big.
We did things.
I know, and I appreciate
the whole ride, man, but...
come on.
I was the best roadie
you ever had, dude.
Hello?
Bobby, can you hear me now?
Fuck, man.
They're taking Ronnie Binder?
Wait a minute.
How can they take
Ronnie Binder and not take me?
What? Because I've got seniority
over that guy, that's why.
I know, I know, I know,
it's not your problem,
but they fucking ditched me
for fucking Ronnie
fucking Binder?!
Those fucking ungrateful
motherfuckers!
( panting )
Yeah, I'm okay. Yeah.
No no no no, I'll even lift.
Oh.
Yeah.
Sure. No, I'll check in
with you next summer.
Right.
Look, I'm willing to cut my rate.
It's just... I just... I gotta be
on the road, you know?
It just doesn't
feel right not touring.
You know what
I'm talking about, right?
Uh... well,
hey, do you think
I could come out to LA
and just crash on your couch
while you're gone?
Just for a little while.
Just till I get my shit going.
You got kids?
Since when?
17 and 14?
Wow.
( lighter flicks, clatters )
( crowd cheering )
( man speaks )
Yeah.
( Rock music playing )
Parched land, no desert sand
The sun is just a dot
And a little bit
of water goes a long way
'Cause it's hot
Three good buddies were
laughing and smoking
In the back of a rented Ford...
( Bus engine rewing )
They couldn't know
they weren't going far
Oh no
Each one with the money
in his pocket
Could go out and buy himself
a brand-new car
But they all had
The money they had,
money they hoped
Would take them very far...
Cabbie: You're smoking in my car?
What are you doing?
- No no, two seconds, that's all.
- Put it out right now.
- All right. All right.
- You put it out or get out now, okay?
- Make a left on Met.
( cabbie mumbles)
I'm not going to miss anything.
You just asked me
which way to go.
- I told you, I'm from here.
- There's no left here.
Dude, you're killing me.
You asked me. I'm telling you.
Stop avoiding me, Bobby.
I'm gonna keep calling you
until you tell me
why the fuck you lied to me.
You owe me, man.
- You want to get out here?
- Yeah.
Look, I deserve an explanation.
- You pay and you go.
- Yeah, I'm just having a conversation.
- Listen, Bo...
- No, pay now and go.
You're taking me
to South America with the band.
It's the right thing to do.
Just... just call me.
( music fades )
My bag! on shit!
Bud!
Fuck!
( exhales deeply )
( doorbell chimes )
Mom.
( laughs ) Jimmy
God.
When was the last time
I saw you?
I don't know.
Not since Dad died.
Has it been that long?
It was around that.
How have you been?
You never called me.
Yes, I... of course I did.
I called you...
I called you on your birthdays.
I called you all the time.
( laughing )
I can't believe it's you.
You look good.
- Liar.
- No, you do.
- You look the same.
- You think?
- Yeah, of course.
- You don't.
- I got a little older.
- Put on a little weight.
Not... not really.
Well, you must be hungry.
I'll make you a sandwich.
That sounds good.
I'll do my tuna melts
with the provolone,
pepper and garlic.
- Oh!
( both laughing )
I've actually... I really miss that.
I'm so happy you're here.
- Me too.
- I've got two big pins in me.
Last year when I went
to see your Aunt Marie,
I set off the metal detector
in the airport.
- That must've been something else.
- You should call her.
- Who?
- Your aunt.
- She lives in Florida now.
- Really?
You should call her.
She's your godmother, Jimmy.
- I know, I will.
- When?
Oh my God.
This is still here.
Where are your bags?
I'm just here for the day.
- But I could do your laundry.
- No, that's all right.
The band's starting a big South
American tour. I've gotta get back.
I gotta start arranging things.
Taking care of the garden,
there's always something.
This damn hip.
Do something for me.
- What?
- The dryer... basket's on the washer.
I need you to carry up
some laundry for me.
Oh. Yeah sure.
It'd be nice
if you could stay longer.
Yup. I can't, Ma, really.
The band needs me.
Always the band.
The Blue yster Colt.
Cult.
Blue yster Cult.
They worship the devil.
They're nice
Long Island boys, Mom.
Believe me.
Mom:
You could've done other things.
- Like what?
- Your father and me,
we always thought you'd be
a terrific teacher.
Too late for that now.
( dryer closes )
- Hey, are you all right?
It comes and goes.
You could still be a teacher.
It's never too late
to reinvent yourself.
Yeah, but why reinvent
what's already perfect?
Hey, you still have those.
You should start
using them again.
I work out.
I can see.
Fold for me.
I'm not too good at that.
It's just folding. Please.
Remember this picture?
It's Dad.
He had a gift for music.
- It was his heart.
- That's where I got it from.
- You never played an instrument.
- Yes, I did.
- I played some guitar.
- You only get out what you put in.
If you want success, you have
to work through the hard part.
I'm doing all right
with what I got.
Got. Speak good.
You're a high school
graduate, please.
I like what I have.
I like what I do.
I don't know
what that is, Jimmy.
Ma, I've done
the same job my whole life.
But you never came home
to tell me about it.
Your father's funeral...
if you were here more than a day...
The band was starting
the Japanese tour.
- I had to get back.
- And if we ever talked on the phone
about this, I don't remember.
Okay.
I manage the band, Mom.
I arrange their tours.
I've even written and produced
a few songs for 'em.
- That sounds important.
- Well, it is.
They would be lost without me.
I'm indispensable.
I'm very proud.
Well, thanks.
And that's why
I can't stay too long.
They're like a bunch
of 60-year-old kids.
If I'm gone too long,
it's like leaving the inmates
in charge of the asylum.
I'll get lunch ready.
I wanted more children
after you were born...
a girl... but your father
didn't have the patience.
It's very hard being alone.
Sometimes I go to bed
wishing I won't wake up.
(drawer thumps)
I thought we were out!
Thank God. The pepper is very important.
Did you see your room?
- No, not yet.
- Go. Go see your room.
( Soft rock music playing )
If you stand in the light
You get the feel of the ride
And the music that plays
In your ears
In your head you can hear...
- Mom: Jimmy, we need butter!
- What?
- We're out of butter!
- What?
- Stop with the screaming!
- Come here and talk to me!
( music stops )
What's up?
Go to the Mullers', see if they
have an extra stick of butter.
- You don't need to use the butter.
- I always make it with the butter.
- I'll go to Met Ave and get the butter.
- Just go to the Mullers'.
They're right next door
and they'd love to see you.
I'd rather spend the time
I've got with you.
It takes two minutes.
Marilyn Muller has been
a very good friend of this family.
- I know. I'm...
- Just go. Say hello.
The sweet butter in the blue box.
Marilyn uses that too.
No one's home.
- The Mullers weren't in.
- Last year I had nice tomatoes.
You know, I'm actually
not very hungry right now,
so can we eat later?
I thought you had
to go to South America?
Yeah, I do,
but it's not till next week.
I called the guys.
I told 'em to chill out
while I hangs
with my mom a little.
- That'd be good.
- So we'll eat later, okay?
- I'll make your lunch.
- Yeah, but later.
I still need the butter,
the sweet kind in the blue box.
All right, I'll stop at the deli.
Need anything else?
A red pepper.
Okay, I'll get you
another red pepper.
Hey, I can help you
in the garden now if you want.
No, I'm almost done.
Get the butter,
see the old neighborhood.
It's probably changed, right?
Nothing changes,
Jimmy.
( Rock music playing )
( people arguing )
Come on, man. Just give me
my 42 and we can go.
- Sophie, you give him right change?
- Yes. See?
- I gave you the right change.
- What it say there?
I don't need more of this garbage.
Just give me my money!
This don't mean anything.
Look at all this.
It's just 42. Relax.
- Boy: 42.
( man speaks Spanish )
( acoustic guitar playing )
Woman: And it all seems
kinda funny, like a dream
Things ain't always
what they seem
What a shame
What happened to Jayne...
Woman:
That vocal mike is feeling better.
Like a little brighter maybe.
- Hey.
- Woman 2: Hey.
So what can I get you?
I'll take a Bud
and a shot of Wild Turkey.
You got it.
(woman continues singing )
Jimmy: Thanks.
- You look familiar.
- Really?
Yeah.
Uh, Testagross, yeah?
Yeah, from Loubet Street.
Your dad used to play the trumpet
at the church dances.
The cornet.
Yeah, he used to do that.
Yo, Suede, it's Testagross.
- I'm sorry, what was your first name?
- Jimmy.
Jimmy Testagross
from Loubet Street.
His dad used to play the trumpet
at the church dances.
- Cornet.
- The cornet.
I love these old guys.
( Chuckles )
- Testicles! Holy shit.
It's me... Randy.
- Randy Stevens.
- Oh!
- Randy.
- Both: Holy shit.
- How you doing?
- How you doing?
- I'm doing good.
- Wow!
Shit. Jimmy Fucking Testicles.
What's it been?
Like 25 years, right?
- Yeah, something like that.
- You're still doing that rock shit?
Yeah, on tour forever.
What was that band
you worked for again?
- It was...
- Blue Oyster Cult.
BC! Right, man.
You used to lug
their shit around like a...
- A roadie.
- Roadie, right.
No, that was a long time ago.
I'm their manager now.
Man... no shit?
Yeah, for like the last 10 years.
I also...
I write and I produce for them.
- Songs?
- Yeah, songs.
Yeah, we're going back in the studio
in a couple of months.
- All new stuff.
- Well, look at you.
Pretty fucking cool.
- Yeah.
- Jimmy Fucking Testicles.
You know, we're not
in high school any more.
What?
The whole Testicles thing...
I mean, come on, you know.
Sorry.
Fuckin' A.
So what you been up to?
I took over my...
took over my dad's dealership.
- On Woodhaven?
- Yeah, same place.
The old man passed away.
It's all mine now.
- Cool.
- Hey, Lizette, mami,
another round of whatever
Testicles is having.
So, you married?
- Me? No, just the road.
- Yeah, I bet you're getting
a heap of that international pussy
living that rock life, right?
- I do okay.
- Come on,
fucking smrgasbord
of poontang, am I right?
- Yeah, sort of.
- You remember this guy?
Yeah, that's Testagross.
When Lizette was
like 10 years old,
I used to think
"Another eight years
and look out, guys.
We're gonna have
a major heartbreaker on our hands."
And guess who's been trying to get
in my pants since my 18th birthday.
What?
I like hot young Ricans.
- Is that so wrong?
- I don't know.
- Ask your wife.
( chuckles )
Hey, Jimmy Fucking Testicles
getting all the trim.
Who'd'a thunk it?
- So you're married?
- Yeah.
You know her.
Nicole Kochalski.
Nikki.
You were always
on my mind...
- Oh wow.
Diamond shining bright in the sun
- How long?
- 17 years.
Wow. Congratulations.
( chuckles ) You say that
like somebody died.
No. No no no no.
I just...
I'm just jet-lagged, that's all
I wish I never let you go...
She's really good, man.
And who knows?
Maybe you could take her on,
turn her into a star.
Things ain't always
what they seem
What a shame
What happened
to Jayne...
Oh, I don't wanna know
I don't wanna know,
I don't wanna know
Oh no...
She's been playing here
every Sunday night.
People like her.
Gets a good crowd too, you know.
30, 40 people sometimes.
She's just practicing here.
It's like a...
Sound check.
Yeah, a sound check.
And I still hear
of us on the wind
And I still think
of you in the night...
Hey, I gotta make a phone call.
- I'll be right back.
Well, I guess you'll never know
Just how much
I love you so...
Come on.
( Can clatters )
( lighter flicks )
( door closes )
Hey, Nicole.
- Testagross!
( laughing )
- Oh my God. Ooh!
( kisses )
Nikki:
Oh my God.
- How you doing?
- Good, yeah.
Wow. I thought that was
you peeping through.
- Yeah.
- Hey, everybody found each other.
Hey, babe.
That was a good sound check.
- Did... so...
- Can you believe it?
- Testagross.
- God. What have you been doing?
He's big time now.
He's managing Blue Oyster Cult.
Wow, I didn't even know
they were still around.
Yeah, he's writing songs
for their new album.
- We're heading back in the studio soon.
- They still tour?
Yeah yeah, we're going
to South America next month.
Man, so what brings you back?
Are you here visiting your mom?
Just for a couple of days.
She's getting old.
Old? Look at this.
Huh? And this?
- Oh.
- What the fuck is that?
- And look at my Nikki, huh?
- What?
She's all childbearing hips
without the child bearing.
- Hey, fuck you. Fuck you.
- And she still loves me.
( Cellphone ringing )
Randy.
- God, you look good.
- You too.
Thanks.
Are you sticking around?
- It's gonna be a full house tonight.
- For your concert?
- Yeah.
- Absolutely. That's why I came back.
( Both laugh )
- Nikki: Oh man.
- What time do you go on again?
Oh, any time
after 8:00, before 11:00.
Yeah, fuck me!
All right, fine.
Selim didn't show up
to open the service garage.
I've got the only other set of keys.
Frigging towelhead.
- Hey, see you tonight? Come here.
- Yeah.
- Fucking Testicles.
( both laugh )
Hey, don't worry
about dinner, okay?
- I'll pick it up at Olympia's.
- Okay, cool.
Wow.
( laughs )
- He works his ass off.
( SUV beeps, honks )
Hey, you know what?
I'm really done here.
Do you wanna go get
a drink or something?
I should pace myself.
I don't want to be too drunk
before you go on.
Come on, we'll get a coffee.
- Umm...
- Come on.
So are you married, kids?
No, I never found the time.
I haven't even slept
in my own bed in 20 years.
What about you?
No kids?
You know, we thought about it.
Actually we almost had a kid.
It didn't work out.
- Oh.
- It's cool though.
How long you been singing?
I don't remember you doing that.
About 10 years ago.
I always had the performing bug,
but I was a little too self-conscious.
And then Randy's the one
who actually pushed me into it.
He was like "Just give it a shot.
If it doesn't work out,
so what?" So I did it.
I enjoyed it.
That's what matters, right?
- Gotta do what you love, right?
- What's up with the cops?
Oh, I think some kid was causing
some trouble before.
- Woman: Sir, please.
- He jump over the counter
and hit her.
For 42 he hit her in mouth.
- Look.
- Nikki: Yopi honey, what happened?
Officer:
Excuse me, are you family?
- Yeah, I'm a friend.
- No no. Ma'am, please.
Can you wait outside?
We're handling this.
- Yopi honey, who did this to you?
- Woman: Ma'am.
- Nikki: I'm just...
- Woman: Ma'am, please.
- Man: She... she okay.
- I got you. I got you.
Oh, damn it.
Her mom died a few years ago.
Sometimes we do
girl stuff together.
- That's nice of you.
- Yeah, I always wanted a girl.
Girls are good.
Hey, what kind of kid
would you want if you had one?
- Shit. The butter.
- Butter?
Sweet butter in the blue box.
I'm supposed to pick this up
for my mom.
- Okay.
- One sec.
So no room
on the Jimmy Testagross
roster of stars for a beautiful,
not-so-young-any more
- singer-songwriter from Forest Hills?
( chuckles )
You never know.
Serious?
You know, I actually have been thinking
about expanding the business.
You know, maybe...
maybe taking on new talent.
So...
we'll see.
Oh, poor Mr. Muller.
He had a stroke, right?
Yeah, I think two.
Well.
So what time?
About 8:00?
Uh, closer to 9:00.
You won't end up
- waiting around so much.
- Mom: Where have you been?
Hey, Mom.
You remember
Nikki Kochalski, right?
Carol Kochalski's daughter.
- Hello, Mrs. Testagross.
- Nice to see you.
- Did you get the butter?
- And the pepper.
I already have a pepper.
Come in.
I'm making very nice
sandwiches.
- Do you have any coffee?
- Chock full o'Nuts.
Come in before
I catch pneumonia here.
- How are you, dear?
- Nikki: Good. Good.
You look terrific.
Oh, you're a liar.
I like that.
How's your father?
Soaking up the sun in Boca.
I never cared for Florida.
He was with the police?
Oh yeah, 27 years.
Good man.
But Florida?
What's it like seeing my son
for the first time in 20 years?
It made my day.
Yeah, and he looks great.
Oh yes, and there's
more of him to love.
( chuckles )
I'm almost done with my garden.
Can I see?
Sit and talk with Jimmy.
He'll make coffee.
- Mom, can't you make it?
- What are you, four? Make the coffee.
Men are like children.
- Relax. I'm almost done.
- Okay.
- She's adorable.
- That's my mom.
You've never made
coffee before.
- Yes, I have.
- No, you haven't.
( laughs ) Hey, come on.
It's just the road, man.
You know,
it's just greasy spoons
and room service, takeout.
Developmentally stunted
by rock'n'roll.
- Something like that.
- Okay.
( faucet runs )
( switch clicks )
- It just takes a few minutes to brew.
( gurgling ) ( chuckles)
So show me your house.
It's just a living room
and a basement.
A bathroom?
Yeah, we're not cave people.
We have one.
Can I use it?
( both laugh )
- I'm sorry.
- It's right up the stairs.
- Okay, I'll be right back.
( Soft rock music playing )
Nobody feels any pain
Tonight as I stand
inside the rain...
- Nikki: Jimmy!
- Are you all right?
Yeah, come here.
- I want you to show me something.
Baby's got new clothes
Lately I see...
I didn't want to just go in,
but I have to see this.
My bedroom?
It's like a rock'n'roll
museum in there.
- You think?
- Oh yeah, all that vinyl?
- Can I see some?
- Sure.
( Chuckles ) Sure.
Yeah, she does
and she aches
Just like a woman
Yeah, she does
and she breaks...
God, you've got some
great stuff here, Jimmy.
Oh, I mean the Good Rats.
- You have...
- Both: The original Good Rats.
- Oh.
- They were a great band.
Yeah, I always thought
these guys would be huge.
- You know, they're awesome.
- At least they got signed.
Nice.
Hey, can I play this?
Sure. The turntable
should still work.
You still have a turntable.
I love it.
I still have everything.
( Blows) Okay,
That's... mm-hmm.
( Rock music playing )
Wow.
I teach a class
of phony principles
Of mathematics...
Remember we used to see them?
Every Saturday night at Tuey's.
Yeah, me, you and Stephanie.
Steph Scolaro.
( Both laugh )
- Oh my God!
How's she doing?
She, uh... she died, Jimmy.
No. How?
Breast cancer,
about six years ago.
She was only 36.
Can you believe it?
Yeah, two kids and a husband.
I read your advertisement
in the "Voice"...
- Man.
Seeking some companionship...
Oh, this part here, right here.
I love it the way
his voice goes up.
Yeah, I know.
Man, he had that
raspy-voice thing down, huh?
Those were good times, right?
- Tuey's, Good Rats.
- It was real good.
I love to listen
to the melodies
Of Bach and Beethoven
And I think Bowie's a gas
- In '68 I worked for Gene...
- That coffee's ready?
- What's wrong?
- Nothing,
I just don't want
the coffee to get cold.
- Oh, the machine keeps it warm.
- Right.
( laughs)
- I'm making you nervous being here.
- What? No no, I'm not nervous.
You look like
a Chihuahua that's gotta pee.
I am like a dam about to burst.
( laughs ) I'll be right back.
- Okay.
To pass the lonely days...
( music continues )
Seeking some companionship
To pass the lonely days
You made no stipulations
And only signed it "Friend"
Oh, it's 3:00
and I'm alone again...
( vocalizes )
- I can't believe you married him.
That came out of left field.
No, I'm just... I'm just saying that...
- What, it bothers you?
- Randy is a good guy I'm sure, but...
- he's Queens.
- And who am I, Queen Noor?
- No no, just...
- Jimmy, not everyone is like you.
Not everyone can just leave
and make it big, you know.
Maybe Queens is what I am too.
No, at my age, I've never left,
so yeah, I'm Queens
and that's okay.
No, you are more than that.
You have a great voice
and you always had
a great imagination.
Remember that poetry class
we took for extra credit?
- Oh, Jimmy.
- No no no, you were a genius.
Me, I was writing about werewolf
street gangs from hell.
But you... you were writing
about real things...
dreams and desire.
And that's beautiful stuff.
All the women
you've screwed on the road,
and you're still carrying
a torch for me.
They won't play my music so...
I got over us
a long time ago, Nikki.
Listen.
Do I still have
dreams and stuff?
Yeah, of course.
And playing at Timbo's...
it's not much,
but it feeds it
and I'm good with that.
Let me share your fire
and I'll sing a song for you...
You could've done better.
What, my career or my marriage?
I'm sorry I said that.
No, that was rude.
( stammers )
No, you don't like him.
You never did.
The way he treated you... I understand...
the nickname and all that.
I don't focus on the past, Nikki.
It's a waste of time.
That's healthy.
But Randy treats you right, right?
- He's good to you.
- Yeah.
- Yeah, in that Randy kind of way.
( both chuckle )
Look, I know he's a little rough
around the edges,
but he's got a decent heart and...
let's just say that we have
an interesting relationship.
That's good.
Look, Jimmy,
you're not here long so let's share
some old times together, okay?
Mom: Jimmy.
Oh, your son was just showing me
his record collection.
- It's amazing.
- He took very good care of those.
Come here. I want you
to do something for me.
Gone at 38
Gave so much
and yet so much to give...
You've been home an hour and already
you're bringing girls into your bedroom.
( Chuckles ) She's an old friend, Mom.
We're just talking.
- "Talking."
- We're looking at albums.
I'm old, Jimmy, not stupid.
Mom, she's married.
Why did you walk away
from the Mullers'?
Marilyn saw you at the front door.
I rang their bell.
Nobody answered.
I'll make lunch.
- Hey, I should go.
- No no, she's fine, really.
I don't want to be
disrespectful to your mom.
- You're not.
- Well, we can always hook up later
at the bar or something
before my gig.
And we can party and talk about
vampire gangs from hell.
Werewolf gangs.
Werewolf gangs.
So I'll see you later, okay?
- I'll say bye to your mom.
- Yeah.
See you at the bar.
( Rock music playing )
Long misty days
Told me
They would change
their ways
Once in a while
Will come my way
The thrill is gone
Misty days
Linger on and on
Once in a while
Will come my way
Oh, how the moon
Shining
On a lonely room...
Oh fu... Mr. Muller,
what are you?
( chuckles )
How you doing?
Good.
You want some coffee?
I saw the siding on your house.
( Mumbling )
It's eight years old.
Yeah, my mom said
it was new. It, uh...
Yeah, you've been
gone a long time.
Yeah, it's been awhile.
It looks good.
And the siding... it's nice, really.
Maybe you'd like to come over
sometime,
get your car out
of our driveway.
(grunts)
Oh shit. You know,
I gotta make a phone call.
Phone's there.
Hey. No... hey.
It's on my cellphone upstairs.
I gotta get it off that.
Look who rose from the grave.
- Hello, Jimmy.
- Hey, Mrs. Muller.
You and Don have been talking.
That's good.
My son, he looks the same,
I mean bigger but the same, right?
Jimmy, here. Look what we have
from Marilyn's garden,
nice and fresh.
Oh.
You... you maybe think
you could help me
with my garden and we...
we could grow some too.
I tried eggplant. It didn't take.
Marilyn: No, it's the soil.
Don says it's because the neighborhood
was built on a trash dump
in the '40s, right, Don?
Everything is toxic.
Oh, I heard that.
Did you hear that, Jimmy?
I did.
Yeah, I think so. Sure.
- What am I supposed to do with these?
- I told you... wash 'em.
You'd think he's deaf sometimes.
How long are
you back for, Jimmy?
( Faucet running )
- Oh, I'm just back for the day.
I've gotta go back to work.
I've got a lot of stuff going on.
- You like your work?
- Yeah, I do. I love it.
He's going to South America
with his band.
- You must be excited.
- Yeah, I've been there before.
- It's really cool.
- My son, the rock-star butler.
Is that what you do?
You're a butler for the rock band?
No, that's not what I do.
I run the band.
I manage them.
- You know this, Ma.
- I'm never sure with you.
I gotta go. I'm gonna go see
some friends over at Timbo's.
Don and Marilyn aren't friends?
( laughs ) Of course they are.
It was nice seeing you,
Mrs. Muller, Mr. Muller.
I'm gonna be back late, Ma.
Don:
Don't forget your phone call.
Bobby, I swear...
you don't call me back,
I'm getting on a train,
I'm coming to your place in Connecticut
and your wife, she won't like
the scene I'll make.
So just... come on, man.
Please call me.
( People chatter)
Randy: Testicles!
Perfect.
Little Lizette, mami,
four shots of Turkey,
- two beers.
- You got it.
So I get back here,
you and Nikki are gone.
- I needed butter.
- Butter?
- For my mother.
- Butter for your mother.
( Chuckles )
And where'd Nikki go?
I don't know.
Your house, I guess.
My house?
That's what you think.
- Where else would she go?
- I don't know.
Maybe your place?
She came by and said hi
to my mom, yeah.
Oh. What'd your mom
think of you bringing
a married woman up to your bed?
Hey look, Randy, I...
- that is not what you... we didn't...
( laughing )
Testicles, I'm fucking
with you, man.
Nikki told me you still got
those old Good Rats albums.
- Yeah.
- Fucking classic, huh?
Hey, Jimmy, you know we got
your band's song in our jukebox, huh?
Excellent. Hey,
to old songs and old friends.
Holding up the party, dude.
To old friends.
( Randy grunts )
- BC, baby.
( laughs )
So you're hanging
with him tonight?
Yeah, we're going
to see Nikki play.
- I mean before.
- I guess.
Well, watch him with the...
you know, he can get
a little cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs.
( Rock music playing )
- I do.
( Mimics guitar)
- You see what I'm saying?
- You see what I mean?
( laughing )
Solo.
( mimicking guitar)
My heart is black
And my lips are cold
Cities on flames
With rock and roll...
This fucking song is retarded.
Did you write this?
- No, we were kids when they did this.
- I gotta tell you, bro,
I never really got these guys.
I mean the hits...
I like the hits, but this is...
- They're thinking man's metal.
- You're saying?
No. No no no, I don't mean that.
It's what the critics
called 'em, you know?
'Cause you couldn't peg 'em.
Were they metal?
Were they psychedelic?
Were they pop, country-blues?
I mean, they swung.
Metal didn't swing, but they did.
And the drumming? Tfff-tfff.
It got all jazzy,
but underneath that
are heavy riffs.
I mean, Buck Dharma,
his solo on "Dominance and Submission"
is, without question,
the best hard-rock guitar solo
- of the era, hands down.
- Fucking A.
I mean it sums up
everything that came before it.
You know, Hendrix,
Zeppelin, Townshend...
Dharma, he takes
a little from all of them,
he mashes it all together
into one fucking brilliant solo
that says "This...
this is what it's all about."
Rock and roll...
Well, I never understood
- what the fuck they were saying.
( laughs )
No, call me stupid.
I like to know.
That's the beauty of it...
not really knowing.
I mean, "Transmaniacon."
"7 Screaming Diz-Busters."
"Harvester of Eyes."
"Beautiful as a Foot"?
What the fuck, man?
It was like science-fiction
poetry on a turntable,
you know, all these weird worlds
and just..
They were just so much smarter
than everything else that was around.
No, man, BC, they were better.
And they should've
been even bigger.
And my lips are cold...
What songs did you write?
Well, there are a couple
on the last few albums...
independent label. No hits yet.
When did the last album come out?
Eight years.
So when does Nikki show up?
So let the girl, let that girl...
She's waiting for us
at the Capri Motor Inn.
The motel on Woodhaven?
Remember that back in the day,
those parties?
When we'd rent the rooms,
get all fucked up?
- I heard about them.
- What do you mean? You were there.
- No, never.
- I could've sworn you were there.
Anyway, whenever Nikki
does a show,
we always get a room,
play rock star for an hour,
get all fucked up and leave a mess
for somebody else to pick up.
Come on, she's waiting.
( laughs)
All right.
Go.
( Crowd cheering )
( rock music playing )
( laughs ) Whoa.
You know what?
Maybe you should drive.
Do that.
- You've got, like...
- Do the thing.
( Alarm blares, chirps )
( music continues over radio )
I haven't seen that
in a long time.
All right, say hello
to an old friend.
- No, I don't think so.
- Come on.
- No no no.
- Come on.
No no no.
( snorts )
- Shit.
( laughing )
- It's good, right?
- Oh yeah.
- Damn.
- Now we're partying.
( Snorts )
Let me ask you something.
Back in the day,
you wanted to kill me,
didn't you?
- What? No.
- Hey, come on.
I would've wanted to kill me too.
I fucking terrorized you, bro.
I kicked your ass numerous times.
Right?
The Jimmy Testicles shit alone...
I fucking humiliated you
like I was getting points.
- Gimme another hit.
- Oh shit.
- Someone's about to get honest.
( snorts )
Okay, I did.
I almost killed you.
No shit?
- I had it all planned out.
- Oh, this is fucking great, man.
- How?
- Remember Vern the coke dealer?
- The spook from the Lefrak projects.
- Yeah well, I knew
that you bought
your coke from him,
so I started hanging
around his locker.
And I'd covertly...
One day in-between classes,
I broke into his locker,
found his stash
and I laced it with arsenic.
Yeah, that's right.
My Uncle Max used to work
at this chemical factory.
- It was so easy to get.
- That's fucked up, Jimmy.
I took it back.
I mean I stole it back.
It was a stupid idea.
Pure fucking evil.
But understandable.
I was a fucking tool.
Oh shit, pull over.
Dash for freedom, baby,
don't skate on polar ice...
- Be right back.
It's too thick
To be sliced by the light
Of long and white polar nights
It's all right, it's all right,
it's all right, baby I
Yeah yeah,
baby knows it's all right
It's all right,
it's all right, baby...
All right, I'll get it to you tomorrow.
Testicles! Let's go, roll it up.
- What?
- Hey, tomorrow, okay?
What's wrong, motherfucker?
- What are you...
( laughs )
( yelling )
- Did you steal that?
- No.
- He's gonna call the cops.
- Relax, me and Song go way back.
- What?
Let's go.
Mishi-mon! Mishi-mon!
( laughs)
Whoo!
- Here, relax.
Whoo!
- Ichimon!
( both laughing )
- Randy: There it is.
- Wow. Nothing changes.
( Music continues )
Hey. ( laughing )
( rock music playing )
Sheena is a punk rocker
Sheena is a punk rocker
Sheena is a punk rocker now
Sheena is...
- Oh, you're serious.
- Fuck yeah, man.
Look, no brown ones.
It's Nikki's rider.
( Both laugh )
- Randy: Bam!
- Jimmy, you came!
- Hey.
- Oh nice.
- Nikki: Look at you.
- There she is.
- Oh. Here you go.
- Ah.
You think this is all
a little strange, huh?
Um, a little.
- Randy gets a little carried away.
- Anything for my baby.
He has to make a big production
out of everything...
(grunts)
but it's good times.
- Randy: Hey, baby.
- Whoo.
- Oh yeah, oh yeah...
- Gimme a kiss.
- Cheers.
( clinks)
Randy: Just like
high school, right?
A punk rocker, Sheena is
A punk rocker now...
- Exactly.
- Sheena is a punk rocker...
( Randy growls )
( giggles )
- A little fat one for you.
- Oh God. ( laughs)
I've played, like,
Timbo's a million times but...
thanks, babe... I still need
to get lubricated before I go on.
Oh God.
( laughing )
You'd think I'd be over
the stage fright by now, right?
No no no,
bunch of guys in the bands,
for years they couldn't go on
unless they were fucked up.
What did they do after they got clean?
What'd they do?
Well, you know, it wasn't easy.
One of 'em, he went to rehab,
had to do medication
and, you know, therapy
and yoga and shit.
But, you know, in the end
he was okay.
( Snorts )
- Randy: In the end?
- Oh! What?
- In the end?
Yeah, I mean how it ended...
he was fine.
( Snorts)
- Randy: Oh.
( laughs )
- Nikki: Oh crap!
I almost forgot. Oh God.
Check out what I found.
( Snorts )
I downloaded some
recent Cult CDs.
( Music stops )
( rock music playing )
Nikki:
They got a strong beat.
- Did you write this one?
- Yeah, this is mine.
- Nikki: Good. Sing.
- No. ( laughs)
- No.
- Like the way you used to read me
- your poems in high school.
- Is that what you called that shit?
Oh yeah, this coming
from the guy who thinks
"Hustler" magazine
is great writing.
- It is.
- Sing it.
No, I don't...
I don't really remember the lyrics.
It's a long time ago.
It makes me feel like
your husband's dead...
- Yeah.
I'd like to see you in black
We could make him
suffer instead
I'd like to see you in black
I'd like to see you
in black
I'd like
to see you in black
I'd like to see you
in black... I
Come on, Testagross.
Sing it, Testagross.
You can't lie to me, Ann...
( Nikki laughs ) Oh shit.
Jimmy: You can't pretend
he isn't beating you up
I saw the marks on your hand
I saw the blood
on your coffee cup
I'd like to see you in black
I'd like
to see you in black
I'd like to see you
in black I
I'd like
to see you in black
I'd like to see you
in black I
I'd like to see you in black...
- Jimmy!
I'd like
to see you in black
I'd like to see you
in black!
Hey, Jimmy.
( Nikki laughs ) Fuck.
Hey hey hey.
Down, Fido. Come on.
( Music stops )
- Liking that.
It's my turn
to play now for Jimmy.
( Snorts )
- Randy: He's gonna hear it later.
No, it's not ready
for public consumption yet.
- I want his opinion.
- What, mine's not good enough?
- Do you mind?
- No, I would...
- I would love to hear it.
( Nikki chuckles)
Fuck. Nikki.
- Buzzkill.
Oh, where did you go
My sweet child?
No, don't you play
these games with me
I'm up then I fall
and sorry through it all
And loving so blindingly
You came for a time
But you weren't really mine
So you leave me here
just bleeding
I walk through the snow,
too sick to let go
And not ready for the healing
Not ready
For you to leave...
You're nothing
but a ghost in my head
Some hope I have,
something left unsaid
And I didn't re-
Oh, you know what?
I don't like where
it's going right now.
- I think it should...
- It's great the way it is.
( Sighs ) What do you think?
I think it's beautiful.
( Stammers )
This is where it goes now.
Uh, so I...
And I didn't really
know you at all
So how come
I feel so small?
So small?
- Randy: Yeah, that's good.
- I don't know. I don't know.
( Chuckles ) Yes you do.
( laughs )
- Jimmy: Oh, you know.
'Cause... Nikki, you know.
Just do it. Come on.
Hey, breathe.
( Both breathe deeply )
- Jimmy: Lean back.
( Clears throat )
And I didn't really
know you at all
So how come
I feel so small?
So small?
- Try resolving it with a G?
I can't feel you at all...
Oh. G or a C.
G! Yeah!
Way to go, Testicles!
( laughing )
- Shh shh! Sorry, that was rude.
Oh! Ugh! Stop.
- Stop.
- That's all right.
- Randy: Oh shit!
- No, it is not.
- Oh shit!
- Christ. Randy!
Randy!
- I'm sorry, man.
- Randy: Oh shit.
( Randy mutters )
- Nikki: Randy!
Randy: "Resolve that
with a G." ( laughs )
( tuning )
( snaps)
- Nikki: Oh shit!
( laughs )
Oh God. Sorry.
Hey, Randy, could you
get me my strings, please?
- Can't move, babe.
- Jimmy: I'll get it.
Nikki: Oh thanks.
I get too messed up,
my fingers spaz on me.
I'm gonna have to work on that
- when I hit the big time, right?
( Jimmy grunts)
- I'll change it.
- All right, thanks.
- Jimmy: Oh my.
- Nikki: That one's a pain.
- Nice.
- Yeah.
( Chuckles ) ( notes playing )
If you're gonna fuck my wife,
get to it already.
Oh, Randy. Randy.
(grunts ) She goes on in an hour,
so make it quick.
Come on, man.
Let's not do this.
- Come on, man. Just admit it.
- Randy, just stop.
- Stop, okay?
- You wanna fuck my wife.
It's all like
"Hail the Conquering Hero" in here.
Jimmy: I should go.
- No. Randy, tell him you're kidding.
- I should go.
Randy, just tell him
you're kidding.
What? Who the fuck is kidding?
Mr. Bullshit Rock Star
fucking thinks
he can just come in here
and part my wife's legs
like he's fucking Moses or some shit.
It was good seeing you.
Your songs
are nice.
( Glass shatters )
- Oh! Fuck, Randy!
You think you're better than me?
- You almost hit me with that, man.
- I'll hit you with this, you...
Okay okay, everybody chill out.
This fucking guy
is bullshit, Nikki.
Fucking... fucking songwriter?
Manager of what?
Some bullshit
has-been metal bullshit.
- You know what? Fuck you.
- I don't even think you're a manager.
I don't think you've ever
written a fucking song.
- You don't know me, man.
- I know all about you.
Oh, you're a fucking schlepper,
carrying other people's shit,
pretending it's yours.
Yeah, that's you, man.
Jimmy the schlepper.
- You don't know shit.
- Guy thinks he's better than us.
- Randy.
- Jimmy Fucking Testicles.
- Hey, don't call me that!
- You know who called you that?
- Who gave you that name, dude?
- Stop it. Stop it, both of you.
She did
right after you broke up.
Tell him.
( Chuckles )
You were a joke to her, dude.
Your poems,
your songs, your dreams
- and that thimble-sized prick.
- This is crazy.
- Tell him that!
- She knew you were bullshit.
Jimmy Fucking Testicles.
Fucking joke.
- Stop, okay?
- No, I'm having too much fun.
- Stop it or I will walk out of here...
- Fuck the two of you.
- ...you fucking asshole!
- Nikki, don't... hey, Nikki.
- The fuck? Hey hey.
- No.
- Don't you fucking...
- No no, you shut it.
Go apologize to him.
( laughing )
I'm sorry.
It's the coke or something.
Yeah, Jimmy,
it's just the coke talking.
- That's why.
- You know what?
I didn't waste
my life pretending.
This? I did this.
I lived this
in five-star hotels
all around this fucking world.
I said I'm sorry. You know what?
You're everything you say you are.
Yeah, and in a couple of days
me and the band are
going to South America
and we're gonna perform in front
of thousands of people
cheering for us.
And do you know
where you're gonna be?
Right here, pretending.
Ha!
I fucking laugh at you.
Both of you.
Look, it's... this is high school shit.
Come on. Please.
( Door rattling )
( door opens )
( rock music playing )
( sniffs )
That's some honest coke.
Hey! Hey hey...
- Come on.
( girls laugh)
( car honks )
People, what have you done?
Locked Him in His golden cage
Golden cage
Made Him bend to your religion
Him resurrected from the grave
From the grave
He is the god of nothing...
- Come on, bro.
If that's all that
You can see...
- All right.
You are the god
of everything
He's inside you and me...
Hey, this is Jimmy.
Bobby there?
Woman: Jesus, Jimmy,
Bobby doesn't want to talk to you.
- He owes me!
Oh, lean upon Him gently...
Look, you put that
little fucker on the phone.
You're harassing him.
Jimmy, stop!
Becca, you put Bobby...
Becca, you tell Bobby
I am going on that tour with them.
( Becca speaks )
- Becca, you tell that little fuck...
hello?
Uh... fuck!
The bloody Church
of England
In chains of history
Requests your earthly presence
At the vicarage for tea...
Psst!
Psst! Hey!
You got a problem, man?
- You hurt Yopi!
- What?
42, huh?
You little fuck!
- Ah!
- You're crazy, man!
Yeah.
(grunts)
( muffled chatting )
( birds chirping )
( Don grunts)
Huh?
( Mumbling ) You Okay?
Huh? Your mother
was worried.
Your mother was worried.
( laughs)
Rough night, huh?
When I was your age...
( laughing )
I would sleep outside
every Saturday night.
Marilyn wasn't happy...
That's why I stopped
the boozing, huh?
Isn't it a shame?
Should've stopped sooner, huh?
Right? ( laughs )
- Ooh!
( Doorbell rings )
Don:
Look what I found.
(grunts)
- Jimmy!
( running footsteps )
( barfing )
- What the hell did you do?
- Oh, Mom, please.
This isn't right, Jimmy,
a man your age acting like this.
- It...
( coughs) Mom!
Leave me alone!
- Oh shit.
( flushes )
(grunts)
( exhales deeply )
Sorry, Mom.
( Clatters )
I don't appreciate this.
This is my house.
I'm sorry.
You're hurt.
- Sit down.
- No.
Oh man.
( Groans ) Fuck
What did you do?
Did you get into a fight?
Yeah, sorta.
It's a shame you can't
visit your mother
without getting alcoholic.
I'm sorry, okay?
Your father's brother...
bad rummy, always in trouble.
Your father didn't want you
to turn out like Maxie, Jimmy.
Now, God, look at this.
( Crying )
I said I'm sorry, okay?
Jesus. Toughen up.
We're just talking.
I know, Ma, it's just...
- it's just...
- What?
Things are just pretty...
- fucked, Ma.
- You just watch your mouth.
( Crying)
- Oh.
Oh, Christ Almighty.
Would you stop?
All right,
how do you think it looks,
Mr. Muller...
( chuckles )
finding you outside like a bum
and then crying like a two-year-old?
- It's embarrassing...
- I know!
...especially the way you've been
avoiding him and Marilyn.
Oh, would you...
enough already with the Mullers.
( Coughs )
Well, if your father was here...
Yeah, what? Huh?
What?
What is he gonna do?
Huh? Smash my guitar?
- What are you talking about?
- Yeah, Dad smashed my guitar.
- You never played guitar.
- I never...
I Played. I played.
- I don't remember.
- I got some lousy grades or something.
And Dad came home and he went
for the one thing
he knew I loved.
And he El Kabonged
that thing to bits
right in front of my face!
- He never...
- He did! Yes, he did!
I was good, Mom.
I could've been great.
( Crying )
I never even
picked it up again.
I didn't even try.
Dad... he fucked me
out of my dream.
- How dare you?! You...
- He did! And...
Grow the fuck up, Jimmy!
( Huffs)
Lord, forgive me.
Christ Almighty.
There are people
starving in this world.
There are wars.
Mr. Muller had two strokes.
You're complaining?
What's the matter with you?
You manage a band.
You write songs.
( Chuckles )
- Be happy!
For once.
Clean yourself.
I'm going back to bed.
( Door opens, closes )
( doorbell chimes )
Oh my God,
what happened to your face?
Nothing.
I cut myself shaving.
Look, Jimmy, I'm really sorry
about last night.
No worries.
Randy...
he can be an asshole,
but he's really... he's all right.
And he feels bad. He does.
He would've been here now
but he's not feeling so good.
I don't give a fuck about Randy.
( Sighs ) How was the show?
It was good. Yeah, we had
30 people.
Cool.
Look, I just wanted
to come by to say bye
before you took off
on your tour so...
Well, it looks like
I'm gonna be spending
a little more time
in Queens than I thought.
The tour got postponed.
- Well, that's great.
- It means I get to see more of my mom.
Wow.
So I'll see you around.
Yeah.
Good.
Oh.
I hope this doesn't put you out,
but we recorded
the show last night.
And... I don't know...
if you could give it a listen
and if you like it, maybe you could
pass it on to someone.
I'll listen to it.
Thanks.
That means a lot to me.
Well hey, if you ever need help
making coffee, just give me a call.
- Yeah, I'll do that.
- Okay.
- You take care of yourself.
- You too.
- You all right?
- Of course I am.
- What are you doing?
- Planting tomatoes.
Oh! Look at this.
Come on, help me
with the garden.
Come... come on.
Get your hands dirty.
It'll be good for you.
Dig. Here. Not too deep.
Mom, I'm not going
to South America.
The band fired me two days ago.
They're going without me.
( Soft sobs )
I don't manage them.
I never managed them
and I've never written
a single song.
I carry their gear for 'em.
For 26 years,
I carried and I set up their gear.
That's what I do.
Your father and me,
we always knew you'd make it,
that you'd realize your dreams.
- Mom.
- Yeah, we always believed in you.
Mom.
You dig your...
( distant thunder)
( soft rock music playing )
Now the seats are all empty
Let the roadies take the stage
Pack it up and tear it down
They're the first to come
And the last to leave
Working for that minimum wage
They'll go set it up in another town
Tonight the people were so fine
They waited there in line
And when they got up
on their seats
They made the show
And that was sweet
But I can hear the sound
Of slamming doors
and folding chairs
And that is a sound
you will never know
Now roll them cases out
and lift them amps
Haul them trusses down
and get 'em up them ramps
'Cause when it comes
to moving me
You know you guys
are the champs
And when that last guitar's
been packed away
You know that I still wanna play
But just be sure
You got it all set to go
Before you come for my piano
But the band's on the bus
And they're waiting to go
'Cause we gotta drive all night
To play a show in Chicago
Or Detroit
I don't know
We do so many shows in a row
And these towns
all look the same
We just pass the time
in the motel rooms
And we wander
around backstage
Until those lights come up
and we hear that sound
And we remember why we came
Now we've got Country
and Western on the bus
R&B
Man, we've got disco
On 8-tracks
and cassettes in stereo
We have got rural scenes
and magazines
And we've got truckers
on the CB
And we've still got
Richard Pryor on the video
We've got time to think
of the ones we love
While the miles roll away
And the only time
this seems too short
Is the time that we get to play
Because when that morning sun
It comes beating down
You will wake up in your town
But we'll be scheduled to appear
A thousand miles
away from here
Man, you know
I still wanna play.
( music fades )