Summer Eleven (2010) Movie Script
(piano music plays)
(birds squawking)
Girl: I was 11 when I
asked my teacher
how come there were wild
parrots in Los Angeles?
He said that years
before our private zoo
was going to close down and
the workers were told
to kill all the birds.
The workers hated the idea
and let the birds go instead.
I don't know how true that is,
but almost every time
I hear them above me,
I wonder if the parrots
stayed friends with each other
once they were free
and everything was
suddenly so different.
(birds squawking)
It's time for an update.
Already?
I see a difference, yeah.
Well I thought
you'd never wake up.
Good morning to you too.
(scoffs)
Jess...
Good morning, Dave.
Dave: You get to middle school
in September
you won't be sleeping like this,
I tell you that.
Dave: I got to go, honey.
-Julie: Bye.
-Dave: Bye.
Julie: What time
will you be home?
Later than last night.
That's for sure.
I'll see you, kids.
Miranda: Bye, Dave.
Now, Jennifer, listen to me.
Your mother would
want it this way,
I want it this way.
You have to understand that.
I care more about you than
anyone can, I'm your father.
I know, Daddy, I just miss her.
I know you do. I do too.
Why do you have
to be seeing Jane?
Lifetime...
Because I deserve to
be happy again, or...
No, it's "I want
to be happy again."
Close enough.
As long as you've
got them right.
You go them, right?
Yeah, I'm fine.
Sorry, I just, I
want you to nail it.
They specifically asked
for you to come in.
I want to do a feature.
I just hate these MLWs.
They're weak, you know?
Well it's not so easy, dear.
Maybe someday.
Hey, it's Peri.
Honk the horn!
Peri who?
From school.
Hey, Peri!
Yo yo yo!
Yo yo yo!
Was Peri in your room?
I thought I knew all the kids.
No, she's in
Mrs. Stone's class.
Oh wait, her mom used to come
to PTA meetings, right?
I don't know.
Yeah, and then
she stopped coming.
Can I play with her today?
Maybe, I thought you were
playing with Lizzie and Jess.
So we can call Peri too.
Why not?
Okay, okay.
Let's do your sides again.
Daddy, can we
talk for a second?
Sure, honey.
Mama, how long does it take
for the box to get to Gerry?
Maybe a couple of days
you know, with the rush service.
When will he come home?
I hope soon, baby.
This was supposed
to be his last trip,
but it's just...
Do you worry about him?
Yeah, what mother
wouldn't worry?
Lizzie, I worry all the time.
There it is.
I can't believe my
little pumpkin head
is going to middle
school already.
Can we go now?
I remember sitting
you up on a trash can
that first day of elementary.
You were so upset I had to
talk you into going, remember?
But it went okay.
I remember.
You know you're going
to be fine, right?
You know that.
Miranda!
Miranda!
Miranda!
Miranda: What?
Jess: Where is it?
What?
Where is it, my DS?
Miranda: I didn't--
Where is it?
Miranda: I don't know.
Jess: Where'd you put it?
Dave had it.
What is she talking about?
Go play.
I need to talk to Jess.
Go, go.
Sweetie, Dave and I have
given it a lot of thought.
Jess: What?
Well I, we don't think
it's such a good idea
for you to just have
it anytime you want, you know?
Dave's been reading about
children and video games...
Jess. Jess.
(up tempo music plays)
Uh huh. I don't know.
I'll take to you later, bye.
(beep)
(beep)
(beep)
Vanessa Van Storan.
Man: We need to talk, please.
But we've talked
forever about this.
What do you want me to say?
That I'm thrilled about
what you're doing?
Man: Listen...
No, listen to me for a change.
(sighs)
I wasn't ready for this stuff.
You didn't even ask me.
I feel like I don't even matter,
or what I think about this stuff
doesn't mean anything,
you know?
Man: Now, Jennifer, your mother
would want it this way.
You have to understand that.
I care more than
anyone can about you.
I'm your father.
I know, but I just miss her.
Man: I know you do,
I do too.
But why do you have
to be seeing Jane?
Man: Very good, that
was great, Vanessa.
Thanks.
Man: How old are you?
Great, thank you very much.
How'd it go?
Nailed it.
Woman on radio:
Yesterday in Najaf, Iraq,
the Defense Department
has confirmed
at least seven US Marines
were killed in the attack.
Sources are saying that
the incident occurred
at a roadblock and an improvised
explosive device was used.
Now the morning traffic.
It is a sticky morning out--
(phone rings)
This is Martin.
Hey, you!
Hey!
I didn't even hear
you leave this morning.
Cheryl:
I just wanted to let
you know I got the parcel off.
Good, did they say it was
going to make it on time?
Yeah, they said it should.
How are you?
You know...I'm...
Really?
Yeah, you know,
same old stuff.
Well keep the faith, hon.
It'll end eventually.
Yeah. Hey, is Lizzie there?
Hold on.
Here, Daddy
wants to say hello.
Hi, Daddy!
Martin:
Hey, baby, what's up with you?
Nuthin'
What are your
plans for the day?
I think I have a play
date with Jess and Vanessa.
Lizzie:
Do you want to talk to mommy?
Nah, that's okay, um...
Bye bye.
Bye!
(piano music plays)
Come on, come on!
Alright.
(phone rings)
Hello?
Oh, Jenine, it's
Linda Greldy from PTA.
Oh hi, how are you?
Linda:
Good, running Vanessa
around to all of her stuff.
Oh yeah.
Summer, got to love it, right?
Jenine
: Yup.
Well listen, Vanessa's
having some friends over
Linda:
to play today, and she
wanted Peri to come too.
Oh, you know, with everything
we've got going on
today I don't think we can.
Okay, another time then.
Mom, come on! Please?
Is she coming?
Hold on, Linda.
God...
I don't know what to do.
Linda? Sure, she'd love to.
Jenine:
You're the blue house
with the white fence, right?
That's right.
See you then.
She's coming.
Yay.
Mama...
Mom, I'm gonna go now.
What? Where are you going?
To Vanessa's house.
I told you.
Well let me take you.
It's just around the corner.
I know, but... you wait.
Help.
(slow dance music)
-Vanessa: Double double,
this this.
-Lizzie: Double double,
this this.
Double double, that that.
Double double, that that.
Double this, double that.
Double this, double that.
Double double, this that.
Double double, this that.
Double double, ice ice.
Double double, ice ice.
Double double, cream cream.
Double double, cream cream.
Double ice, double cream.
Double ice, double cream.
Double double, ice cream!
Double double, ice cream!
(laughing)
Yo yo yo!
Yo yo yo!
Yo yo yo!
(laughing)
Hey, Jess, how are you?
I haven't seen you
in a long time.
I'm good.
You think she's
handling it all okay?
Oh absolutely, that kid
is as strong as an ox.
My God, I can't imagine how
Lizzie would be
in that situation.
Have you met him?
No, you?
And?
I don't know what
she's thinking.
Hmm.
Well I better get going.
I'll call you later.
Okay, oh, how's Gerry doing?
Oh he's good, he's okay.
He's just...
There was a bad attack
I heard on the radio.
Oh no no,
he's not around there.
Oh, okay.
Alright, bye, Cheryl.
Okay, see you later.
Take a rest upon
the shore...
(hip hop music)
Lizzie, why'd you draw
a dog on a skateboard
with...what is that?!
(laughing)
Toilet paper!
Oh my God, what,
looks like a wig.
No.
Hey, I saw Peri today.
She's coming over too.
Peri? From school?
Yeah.
Why?
I don't know, why not?
Okay, wait, I got it.
Jess, draw your
favorite thing,
Then I'll add to it.
Then Vanessa you draw that
and we keep going on and on.
How do you draw Dylan?
-Aww!
-Aww!
Hey, Dylan's not
my favorite anymore.
I think his friend
Kevin's better.
Way better!
I like Dylan.
I don't.
Who do you like besides
your little elephant?
Nobody.
(laughing)
Okay, so call me
before you're done
not when you're done, okay?
I know.
It's the one with
the picket fence.
Okay.
Why don't you just
drive her up there?
Because, okay?
Ready?
Peri: Yup.
(doorbell rings)
Oh, hello, Peri.
Hi.
Where's your mom?
(car drives by)
Okay, well come in.
The others are in
Vanessa's room.
You can go ahead.
It's just down the hall there.
Thank you.
(girls singing)
And the boys are the best
Where the east, us--
(knocking at door)
-Peri, yay!
-Hey, Peri.
Hi guys, hi.
Yo yo yo!
-Yo yo yo!
-Yo yo yo!
Yo yo yo.
Come on in.
Cool room, Vanessa.
Yeah, I like it.
Your actor's
picture, Van Storan?
It's a stage name.
Peri: Really?
My God, that is so cool.
I guess.
Sometimes it seems stupid.
-It's not stupid, Vanessa.
-Yeah.
Yeah, whatever.
How do you do it?
What, act?
Yeah, acting.
I mean it's awesome
that you can do it.
Do you just...
Just act. It's easy.
Jess: Here, show us.
You try it, Jess, I dare ya!
(laughs)
Okay, where do I start?
Start from where
it says scene 2.
Daddy, I know,
I just miss her.
I know you do. I do too.
But why do you have
to be seeing Jane?
Because I want
to be happy again.
Yeah, it is hard to do.
Can I try?
Here you go.
Hey, Peri, did
you bring your DS?
I don't--
No, I forgot it.
Hey hey.
Thank you.
Woman: Marty, they need
you to sign this.
Let me see.
Okay.
Woman: Thanks.
(laughing)
I think my mom should
go out with my manager.
Why?
Well I just see the way
they look at each other.
Like they want each other.
Chemicals.
Chemistry.
Whatever.
Yup, it's so obvious it's gross.
Yeah, I know.
Like Dave and your mom.
Stop.
Sorry.
It's okay, I guess.
It's just talking about
it makes me think about it,
then I feel bad.
Why? What if they have
to be with each other?
Come on.
No really.
What if they're
the one true love
that was meant to be?
Lizzie, you read
too many books.
Yeah, that can happen
even after a break up.
Maybe, Lizzie,
but not this guy.
She should take him anyway.
Unless some other guy comes
along with his own house.
We have a house.
I'm going to the bathroom.
If Gerry got killed in Iraq,
my mom and dad would just die.
That would just be really bad
and that's just...
Lizzie, don't worry.
Gerry's going to come home.
I keep hearing
about the insurg--
Gerry's going to come home,
just wait and see.
(water running through pipes)
(piano music plays)
(water stops)
(footsteps)
(door opens, closes)
Did you have a shower?
Yeah.
Cool.
I think I have an armpit hair.
Really?
(dramatic music
plays through TV)
(sighs)
Yeah...okay.
Okay. Bye.
Daddy.
Yeah, we're okay.
Nothing, went to
Vanessa's house.
When can I see you again?
No, when.
Why?
Yeah, I know, sometimes
it just kills.
When can I talk to you again?
How about tomorrow?
The day after?
Okay, bye Daddy.
Maybe we'll hear
something tomorrow, huh?
About what?
Today's TV movie audition.
Whatever.
Hey, there are plenty
of other actresses
in this town who
will happily take
the gig if you don't want it.
I know.
It's not a feature,
but it's work.
Why can't Ron get me
in for more features?
I don't know.
You had some fun today, huh?
Linda: What do you know
about Peri?
Nothing much.
Hoo boy...
What?
Did you see her clothes?
What kind of mother would have
her daughter dress like that?
I don't know.
I think her shoes were hurting.
Unbelievable.
(floor creaking)
Martin: Hey!
Come on, it's time.
Should be right away.
Sure we got the time right?
Hey! Gerry hi!
We can see you!
Hey hey!
Yeah, it's working.
I can see you too.
Oh my God.
Gerry:
Hey, Mom.
Hey Gerry, how are you?
Yeah, I'm okay.
Everything's okay here.
What about there?
Oh, we're fine.
Gerry:
Yeah? Hey, who's that
princess I see there?
Hey.
Gerry:
Hey, how you doing, baby?
Good.
Yeah? You being a good girl?
Sure...sometimes.
(laughing)
Hey, Gerry, is it pretty, you
know, busy where you are?
No, it's pretty dead.
I'm going to get killed
from the boredom.
Martin: Good.
I guess.
Baby, listen, I sent you
a parcel for your birthday
you should get it in time.
Gerry:
Okay.
Can we see you like
this again, or...
No, I don't think I get
to do this for a while again.
Well then I guess we're
going to have to sing for you.
Gerry:
No no no no no,
no you don't!
No!
Gerry, are you saying
you don't like our singing?
(laughing)
Yeah!
(Unison) Happy....
Oh no! Stop stop stop stop!
Okay here, I'll blow out
the candles, alright?
Alright, you ready?
(blows)
Yay! Happy birthday!
(piano music plays)
Shouldn't walk around
with those things on.
You'll run into something.
I mean a train could
come by and hit you
and you wouldn't hear it.
That's not a final draft.
It's just some sketches.
It looks like our room.
Yeah it is, for now.
We're thinking of moving
my business into the house.
What?
It's a smart move...save
a lot of money by doing it.
But that's our room!
Don't worry about it, sweetie.
We'll fix the den up real
nice for you and Miranda.
Dave: Okay?
It'll work.
Could you put your glass
in the dishwasher please?
What's the matter?
Stay here.
Where are you going?
(piano music plays)
Open up you wild one
Let me know more
than your name
Take out the judgments
Let me know you
feel the same way
How many times I've
been to this place
So much of your smile
makes me feel like a new way
Was chiseled away
concrete walls into dust
I know I must
give it away, I say
Give it away, I say
If I plan to keep
this sunny day
Jenine: Yes, absolutely.
Today?
This after...well
I understand that.
Yeah, I'll be there.
Thank you.
What's up?
They want to see me for
that job interview today.
What am I going to do?
I'm not ready for this.
Jeff, you can stay at
Wayne's for a bit, right?
They said anytime.
I don't want to go to Wayne's.
Oh, Peri, give me a break!
What am I supposed
to do with you today?
I can't take you to
the job interview.
Take me to Vanessa's.
Come on, it'll be fine.
Let's just go.
Okay, we'll do
what we did before.
I'll drop you off,
make sure they're home...
I can't let them
see inside the car.
(doorbell rings)
Jess.
You okay?
Yeah.
-Really?
-Jess: Mm-hmm.
Is Vanessa here?
Sure, she's in her
room with Lizzie.
Go surprise them.
(doorbell rings)
-Hi!
-Ron: Hey.
Linda:
What are you doing here?
Well I could have
called from the office,
but I was on my way
and I was close, so...
Okay, you want some coffee?
Yeah.
I just got off the phone
with Derry Cassel,
and they are recasting
something this afternoon.
It's a feature.
It's Alec Baldwin.
It's for the role
of the daughter.
Whoa, really?
Ron: Donna's sending over sides.
They won't release a script.
Vanessa, come here!
Is she's going to be up to
get it together
by this afternoon?
Hey, beautiful!
Hi, Ronny.
You've got a feature
audition today.
Whoa, cool!
Yeah, okay, you go play.
I'll give you the sides
when they come in.
You two, you have to
let her learn it, okay?
I think you're going to have
to come along to the audition.
Okay? Scoot.
So...
(inaudible)
Is it good?
Shh!
(coughing)
Okay, I need to run it
a few times to find it.
You memorized it that quickly?
Okay, I'm Patricia and
you guys are everyone else.
Ever since I was four years old,
I knew all about him,
everything.
I figured out that my Daddy
wasn't really who
he said he was.
But it just wasn't right
to call him a liar.
It just didn't fit.
Oh never mind,
I'll call him later.
Okay, bye.
Hi, Mr. Wilson.
How are things?
Fine, I guess.
Yes, why?
Oh never mind.
I'll call later.
Okay, bye.
That you used to rob
banks, is that true?
Don't you ever ask me.
Is it true?
Daddy, you said...
(inaudible)
(piano music plays)
Some kids at school told me
that you...that you
used to rob banks.
Is that true?
Daddy, how could you
have never told me
something like this before?
How, Daddy?
You are amazing!
Vanessa, you are so
going to get this part.
Maybe.
Linda:
Come on, come on, come on.
Let's go, let's go, let's go!
Do we need my head shot?
No, never take a head shot
to a feature audition.
It makes you look desperate!
My mom is having
a job interview,
so can I stay here?
Oh God!
What did she do,
just drop you off?
Yeah.
(sighs)
Well...you're going
to have to come with us.
Vanessa has an audition.
Wait...
Peri, I'm sorry to
have to say this.
You can't wear that.
This audition,
it's too important.
Linda: Vanessa, lend Peri
something to wear.
Now, go go go.
We're going to be late!
Ugh.
(harmonic music)
Come on, girls.
Sit down.
Hi.
Sit!
(office phone ringing)
Crystal, are you ready?
Are you reading for
the role of Angie?
Me? Heh. No.
Woman: Here she is!
Man: Why don't you just
come here and give me a hug!
She was so good in
that last film...
It's okay.
Man: Okay, do you have any
questions about the script?
Did you nail it?
(laughing)
Hold her back!
Come on!
It's them.
Who?
Dylan and Kevin.
Can't you guys
keep it in the yard?
Can't you throw it this far?
Nice.
What 'cha doing?
Hanging out. What about you?
We're getting
ready to go camping.
Our team won Tri City.
Oh yeah, we go on to
the valley competition.
Cool.
Hi, Lizzie.
Soccer.
(up tempo music plays)
Lizzie: Go!
Dylan: Kick it in.
Vanessa: Come on!
(chatter)
(cheering)
Girls: We won!
Yay, we made it!
Lucky shot.
Really?
Really.
No.
Jess, you've played before.
Duh.
Is there a soccer
team in Jordan?
No, we'll be lucky if
we get to play in P.E.
I hate P.E.
Me too.
Lizzie: I don't want to
do P.E. every day.
I love it.
I hate being stuck
in class all day.
I hate being stuck in anything.
Peri, did you guys move?
No.
Did you sell your house?
Well we might be.
There was a sign.
Yeah, we might.
Are you moving?
No.
Lizzie, is your
brother still in Iraq?
Yeah.
That is so, so cool.
I guess.
Vanessa, are you still acting?
Yeah.
My mom saw you
on that CSI show.
She had a big audition today.
Shh, don't want to jinx it.
I think I could act.
Seems easy.
Oh really?
(laughing)
(radio chatter)
(jet flies by)
(explosions)
(sighs)
He's coming home, Lizzie.
Gerry's coming home.
(buzz saw)
(piano music plays)
(eerie music plays)
Where's Mom?
In Gerry's room.
Did that just come?
What? Yeah,
they just dropped it off.
That won't work
under that bed.
Cheryl, it won't work.
(sighs)
Why would they send it
if it's not going to work?
It's okay, we'll just have him
stay in Lizzie's room
for a while.
We'll get him a new bed.
Jesus...
Martin: Honey, come here.
Don't--
No, yes, come on.
(sobbing)
My boy!
Cheryl: He's my little boy!
Great news.
She is in the running.
It's between her
and one other girl.
They won't tell me who it is.
The feature, she's in the mix.
They're already checking on
flights for you guys.
Is that great or what?
If Vanessa books this it is
a minimum of $40,000 to her.
Yesterday I saw a mother
and her two kids by
the side of the road.
They're living in their car.
Yeah, there's a lot of that.
Ron, I know them.
I hate myself.
(motor whirring)
Lizzie, come on.
Your parents are
bringing him home
from the hospital any minute.
Jess, I can't.
Jess: Lizzie, listen.
You can.
It's okay.
Lizzie, look at me.
Look at me, Lizzie.
Jess: You have to see him
and talk to him.
It'll be weird, but just
think how he feels, right?
(somber music)
Hey, you okay?
(piano music plays)
(picks up phone)
(dialing phone)
Jenine:
Hello?
Jenine, hi. It's Linda,
Vanessa's mom.
How are you?
Jenine:
Hi, Linda.
Just fine, just
trying to stay cool.
Right, um...
Listen, I'd love to
have you and the kids
over this afternoon
if you're not busy.
Have some coffee.
Vanessa would love to see Peri.
Jenine:
Oh...well--
Jenine, please,
I'd love to see you.
I know all of
Vanessa's friend's moms
and I've hardly even
talked to you or anything.
What do you say?
Jenine:
Well okay, we can
come for a while.
What time?
Can you come around 3:00?
Jenine:
Sure, we'll
see you then.
Bye.
Okay, bye.
(knocking at door)
Can I come in?
I'm making some tea.
Would you like a cup?
Gerry: No.
Okay.
(laughing)
Kids, you know.
It's hard!
Doing the right thing and all.
It is.
Sometimes I think I push her
too hard sometimes,
you know, the acting thing,
but she really,
really loves it.
I can't imagine Peri
doing anything like that.
Linda: You think she
wouldn't like it?
No, it's not that.
It's just...
it's not going to happen.
How are you doing?
Fine.
Fine.
I...
(sighs)
I have a guest house.
It's empty, warm.
Jenine, I would
like nothing better
than to have you use
it for as long as you
need to with
absolutely no shame.
(piano music plays)
Gerry, have some more salad.
No, I'm done.
You hardly ate anything.
Well think about it.
I don't need much energy.
Right?
Right?!
I suppose.
You went ahead
and grew up on me,
didn't you, Princess?
Yeah.
Do you have a boyfriend?
No.
Why not?
I'm 10.
It doesn't matter.
Leave her alone.
What?
She's got her birthday
coming up in a week.
I just thought maybe,
I don't know, 10 years old...
Gerry, please.
-Princess...
-Lizzie: Hmm?
Get me another beer?
Yeah.
Haven't you had enough?
I'll stop when
I've had enough.
Thank you.
Cheryl:
Leave it alone. I'll get it.
No, just, just...
(Gerry grunts)
Gerry: Damn it!
Cheryl: Marty, no!
(Martin grunts)
What, are you going
to bend me over your knee?
You can kill
yourself all you want.
I would too, but I'm not going
to let it go on forever!
Got it?!
Not when you're here.
You're not going to
drag us down with you!
This wasn't the plan.
Then why the hell
did you enlist?!
I've been meaning to ask you.
Why did you put the ramp
at the back door?
Hey, the hot water works.
It takes forever to warm up,
but it works.
The bed is a trundle
pull out thingy
so two of you can sleep here
and one of you on the couch?
That'd be great.
Okay, and the phone works
so if you need it.
Oh I've got a cell phone,
so I won't be needing it.
I'm really glad you're here.
Vanessa, let's let
them get settled.
Alright, goodnight.
Jenine: Goodnight.
Pretty cool, huh?
I can't believe
you just did that.
I can't either.
Girl 1:
Today, when I would talk
to my friends
Terry, Billy, and...
-Back more?
-Yeah.
Okay, now we're on
the window, there's no--
No, I like it there.
If you like it there, it won't
make any sense there.
We've, it's not good...
-Hold on.
-I'll put it there.
(TV chatter)
Turn it down please.
-Girl 1:
Are you sure?
-Girl 2:
Absolutely!
Girl 1:
Okay!
Sorry.
(clears throat)
Okay, now the cutaway
that I'm thinking
about is when she's
at the car and...
(TV chatter continues)
I said turn it down!
-Girl 1:
Um, did you forget?
-Girl 2:
I think I did!
- (laugher on TV)
- Girl 1:
Come on!
Did you hear me?!
(volume increases)
(TV chatter continues)
Just try me.
Ooh, get it.
Yay!
(unison) Cake
cake cake cake cake!
Okay!
Mom, what button is
it to see the pictures?
I think daddy said
the green arrow?
So how are you?
Oh, you know, okay.
Really?
Well it's been hard adjusting
to Gerry coming back like that.
Marty had to make some room
in the bathroom and the hallway.
So...
How's Gerry doing?
(sighs)
It's like I never knew him.
He's just not like
I remember him.
He's refusing
any psych help and...
Well we'll get through it
because we always do,
and things will get better.
Hey guys, let's take
acting head shot pictures!
Lizzie: Yeah!
Peri: Vanessa, show us.
How do I show you?
Lizzie: You just do it.
Come on, show us.
Okay, fine.
Peri, go stand over there.
Back up a little.
There.
Now when they take
my head shot
they always have this big
white cardboard thingy.
Why?
I don't know, but I think
it makes a difference.
Jess, you've got
a white shirt on.
Come here and stand
close to Peri.
Kind of under her.
Let's try.
Wait, not yet.
Peri, look at me.
When you act, or have
your picture taken,
you've got to fill your brain
with the right thoughts.
Now look down at the ground
and think of something
that makes you feel good.
Don't stop thinking about it.
Now when I tell you,
look up at the camera
and, Lizzie, you take the shot.
Think, Peri.
Now look up.
Wow, look at that!
That's so funny, look.
Are they doing head shots?
You watch, Vanessa's
going to turn
then all into little actresses.
How's that going anyway?
She's still doing the...
She's down to
the wire for a film
that's between her
and another kid.
It will be just a dream
come true for her.
She wants to do
a feature so badly.
We're all pulling for her.
Thanks, yeah.
She'll be heartbroken if
this one doesn't happen.
She'll miss the beginning
of school though.
It shoots in New York until
the beginning of
November, so...
Dave: Hello!
Dropping this off
for the sleepover.
Julie called me from work,
said Jess probably forgot it.
I'm Dave.
Hey, Cheryl.
Hi. Um...
This is Linda and Jenine.
-Linda: Hi.
-Jenine: Hi.
Linda: Do you want
piece of cake?
Oh, no, I got to
get back to work.
Well Jess is right
there if you need her.
That's okay.
Just make sure she gets the bag.
Thanks.
That him?
Mm-hmm
Wow.
Mm-hmm
Oh yeah.
Was that your mom's boyfriend?
Wait, is he here?
No, he left.
Good, I don't have to see him.
He's your favorite, isn't he?
He seems cool.
Stop, you're going
to make me throw up.
What if they get married?
They won't unless my mom
gets pregnant or something.
How do people get pregnant?
Lizzie...
Yeah?
Did you just say...
You don't know how that works?
Well listen, kiddo.
You're in luck, we know
everything about it.
Listen up...
(jazzy music plays)
Lizzie?
My parents did that?
Twice.
Cheryl: You girls having fun?
(pouring drink)
Come on!
(laughing)
Oh, I have to pee.
Just go by the tree behind it.
No way, you'd never do it!
I'd do it in a sec.
You dare me?
Wait, I'll do it too.
You guys are so gross!
Hey, we're not blood sisters
we're pee sisters!
(laughing, urinating)
I urine for you!
Lizzie: I call center.
Vanessa: Center!
Lizzie: Aw man, I wanted it.
Vanessa: Ok, you're the birthday
girl, you can have it.
Lizzie: Thanks, I don't want
to be on the outside
because that's where
the axe murderer
will hit first.
Jess: Great, how am I supposed
to sleep with that in my head?
Lizzie: Just think
of nice things.
Jess: Like when doing
a head shot, right?
Vanessa: No!
Think of Dylan!
Vanessa: Bark!
I mean barf!
(laughing)
Bar-arf!
Happy birthday, Lizzie.
Thanks.
Vanessa: What did you wish for
when you blew out the candles?
It's a secret.
If I tell you it
won't come true.
Probably won't anyway.
You don't know that.
I wished...that Gerry
never went over there
and he could still
walk and stuff.
That's a good one.
What would you
wish for, Vanessa?
Absolutely without
a doubt that feature.
Peri?
A house, you know.
Jess?
I don't know.
Either my mom and dad
getting back together
or someone to spend
my life with for good.
(piano music plays)
(Gerry muttering)
We're gonna...
everything's going to be...
I, I can't...
(slapping)
(sobbing)
(piano music plays)
Linda: More coffee?
Jenine: It's okay.
Thanks for yesterday.
What?
You covered for me.
Getting a gift for Lizzie
and saying it's from Peri.
Right.
(sighs)
God...I can't even
buy a kid's birthday gift.
I never saw this coming.
Never.
It's just one thing
led to another, and...
before you know it,
here I am.
I'm trying to stay
under the radar here.
So that guy that showed
up at the party, Dave.
Is Jess okay with that?
I don't think so,
but she'd never show anybody.
She's...I don't know.
How about you?
Do you have anyone?
Oh, there's someone.
He's special, blah blah.
But I don't know about it.
Okay, I got it.
What's your favorite season?
Fall for sure.
Because that's when the
holidays and stuff starts.
Like Thanksgiving?
I love Thanksgiving.
I don't.
It's family getting together
and pretending
they care and all.
Sorry.
It's okay, I guess but,
summer's my favorite
right now.
I love this, no school,
no homework,
no fights on the school yard.
It's the best.
Vanessa: You know,
why do we act so bad sometimes?
I can be friends
with somebody one day
and just hate
their guts the next.
We should promise each other.
What?
That we stay best friends
in middle school, you know?
Stop fighting and
help each other--
Oh, it's stupid.
Yeah, it's probably stupid
because we'll make new friends
and sometimes hardly even
talk to each other.
You guys, come on.
I don't think it's stupid.
I want to know I have you guys
as friends no matter what.
I need that.
(rattling)
Gerry, want to play
what's your favorite?
No.
Come on, it's cool.
Don't.
What is it?
It's a game. You take turns
answering that question.
You're Jess, right?
Yeah.
Jess...I don't
like anything.
Okay.
It's supposed to make you
feel better or something?
Yeah, sometimes it does.
Okay, Vanessa, favorite
day of the week.
Oh, I don't...
I guess Tuesday.
My acting class is that day.
You look forward to it?
Yeah.
Okay, Peri, favorite
day of the week?
Sunday.
America's Funniest
Home Videos
is on.
Serious?
Yeah, then I can forget
stuff like...stuff.
Okay Lizzie, favorite
day of the week?
Friday.
Yeah!
Lizzie: When I know school's
out and I have two days
to not sit behind that desk.
My favorite day of
the week is Saturday.
I love waking up
early by mistake
and then realizing
it's Saturday.
I can go back to sleep.
It's the best!
Gerry: Sunday.
I hated Sundays.
Still...taking watch
every 60 minutes.
It always reminded me
of homework and exams.
But which day
is your favorite?
They all seem the same.
I never really know
what day it is anymore.
Hey guys, listen.
I hear you talking
about middle school
and how you're scared
of it and all of that,
but...let me tell you.
Middle school,
and high school even,
just goes by in a flash.
It doesn't matter.
I mean none of it
matters once you're out.
Anyone who was hassling you
while you were in school,
you almost never even
see them anymore.
Gerry: Just do your work and
forget about everything else.
Really.
You just got to enjoy
yourself, you know?
'Cause you never know
what could happen.
(ice cream truck
music plays)
Ice cream, come on everybody!
I have birthday money!
Hurry!
No no, wait...
What are you doing?
Ice cream, dude, come on.
I was a spotlight
shining down on you
Always you were ahead
I was a shadow
walking behind you
Always you did the talking
I was the silence
between all the words
That was always our history
Jess: Wait up!
You standing in front of me
It's my time now
I've waited long
enough to know
It's my time now
I've got the
battle scars to show
It's my time now
My time now
Used to cover you up
Just like a blanket
keeping the cold out
Used to lock all the doors
So you could safely
fall asleep in my arms
Gerry: You guys
trying to kill me?
Lizzie: Okay everybody,
my treat.
Yay!
But don't get
anything too expensive.
Lizzie: Do you guys all want
a fudge bomb pop?
(all) Yeah!
Lizzie: Okay, then five fudge
bomb pops please.
(chatting)
Dylan: Hey guys.
-Oh hey.
-Hi.
Have you guys met
Lizzie's brother?
-Hey.
-Hi.
Hey guys.
Iraq.
People should have
ice cream every day.
Lizzie: Uh-huh.
No, you can't have
good things every day
because then they
don't mean anything.
Thanks for the ice cream.
You're welcome.
Gerry: I got a gum ball.
(piano music plays)
(door opens)
Mom...he's...
He's gone.
So I'm starting
therapy next week.
So maybe you can walk again?
No, Princess.
That ain't going to happen.
It's therapy for my head.
Martin: Good.
(doorbell rings)
Come in.
I could have called, but...
But you were in
the area, right?
No.
Who's here?
Hi, Ronny!
Hey.
They really loved you.
Honey, you were so close.
You have no idea.
Oh God, I'd better go--
You know what? Let me.
I think I need to be alone.
But I'm your manager.
(sighs)
If there was
anybody in the world
I could fix this for
it would be you, kid.
Vanessa, I know you probably
can't even hear me
right now
because you're feeling so sad.
You need to feel this
sadness for a bit.
But, honey, you are
headed for great things.
This will not be
your last chance.
I promise.
(piano music plays)
Hey.
Hey.
Gerry: So, middle school.
Yeah.
It's not so bad, Princess.
You start your therapy today?
He's good to have along.
(birds squawking)
Parrots are back.
I can't believe it's over.
What?
Summer.
Is it too late to go
back to the fifth grade?
Come on.
Jenine: Hey girls.
Mom, you look incredible.
Well...
You're nervous.
It's a new job.
Of course I'm nervous.
Whoa, I've got to get going.
Don't want to be late
on my first day, right?
Thank you.
See you, dude.
Brother: Bye.
Good luck, Mom.
(car honks)
Hey, Linda.
Linda: Good morning.
Thanks for taking her.
I just had to get Miranda
settled, you know?
No problem.
Yo yo yo!
Lizzie: Yo yo yo!
Oh man.
This is nuthin'.
Come on you guys,
you're going to be late.
-Happy first day of school.
-I love you too honey.
Bye, have a good one.
Bye, Jess.
Bye.
Bye, Peri, have a good time.
Cheryl: Hoo boy.
What?
This is hard.
I don't even know
if she's ready for this yet.
Hey guys.
Hey.
So, Vanessa, I thought
you were in New York.
No.
Yeah, you were supposed to do
a big movie or something.
What happened?
Nothing.
What happened,
Vanessa Van Storen?
Leave me alone!
Aww, I think
everybody's waiting
for a big movie.
Shut up!
What, you done
anything better lately?
Come on, hot stuff,
let's hear it.
Listen, you little --
Little what?
Say it.
Come on guys,
we're going to be late.
Lizzie?
What?
Nothing.
Dad!
Oh baby, hello!
What are you doing here?
Well, I couldn't
miss my girl's
first day of middle school,
could I?
(Jess chuckles)
Oh, I missed you so much.
Me too, honey. Me too.
Are you back for good?
Are you...
I'm working on it.
I'm never going to leave
you guys again.
Don't worry. I'm here.
Are you and Mom...
Uh...
I don't know yet.
We're going to work
something out
that works for everybody, okay?
We'll see.
Don't let go.
Dad: I'm here. I'm here.
Oh hey, you got to go.
Your friends are here.
Can I see you after school?
I'll pick you up.
Oh hey, wait,
let me get a picture.
Dad: Alright, one...two...
Oh, wait wait.
Come here.
Look.
(laughing)
Come on, guys.
(unison) Bye!
-Jess: Bye, Daddy.
-Bye.
(school bell rings)
It's my time now
Once we live
long enough to know
It's my time now
I've got the
battle scars to show
It's my time now
My time now
Jump off the cloud,
and I'm flying
Through the open space
Sun is shining on my face
Back then you were the sun
I was a planet
revolving around you
it's my time now
(up tempo music continues)
(birds squawking)
Girl: I was 11 when I
asked my teacher
how come there were wild
parrots in Los Angeles?
He said that years
before our private zoo
was going to close down and
the workers were told
to kill all the birds.
The workers hated the idea
and let the birds go instead.
I don't know how true that is,
but almost every time
I hear them above me,
I wonder if the parrots
stayed friends with each other
once they were free
and everything was
suddenly so different.
(birds squawking)
It's time for an update.
Already?
I see a difference, yeah.
Well I thought
you'd never wake up.
Good morning to you too.
(scoffs)
Jess...
Good morning, Dave.
Dave: You get to middle school
in September
you won't be sleeping like this,
I tell you that.
Dave: I got to go, honey.
-Julie: Bye.
-Dave: Bye.
Julie: What time
will you be home?
Later than last night.
That's for sure.
I'll see you, kids.
Miranda: Bye, Dave.
Now, Jennifer, listen to me.
Your mother would
want it this way,
I want it this way.
You have to understand that.
I care more about you than
anyone can, I'm your father.
I know, Daddy, I just miss her.
I know you do. I do too.
Why do you have
to be seeing Jane?
Lifetime...
Because I deserve to
be happy again, or...
No, it's "I want
to be happy again."
Close enough.
As long as you've
got them right.
You go them, right?
Yeah, I'm fine.
Sorry, I just, I
want you to nail it.
They specifically asked
for you to come in.
I want to do a feature.
I just hate these MLWs.
They're weak, you know?
Well it's not so easy, dear.
Maybe someday.
Hey, it's Peri.
Honk the horn!
Peri who?
From school.
Hey, Peri!
Yo yo yo!
Yo yo yo!
Was Peri in your room?
I thought I knew all the kids.
No, she's in
Mrs. Stone's class.
Oh wait, her mom used to come
to PTA meetings, right?
I don't know.
Yeah, and then
she stopped coming.
Can I play with her today?
Maybe, I thought you were
playing with Lizzie and Jess.
So we can call Peri too.
Why not?
Okay, okay.
Let's do your sides again.
Daddy, can we
talk for a second?
Sure, honey.
Mama, how long does it take
for the box to get to Gerry?
Maybe a couple of days
you know, with the rush service.
When will he come home?
I hope soon, baby.
This was supposed
to be his last trip,
but it's just...
Do you worry about him?
Yeah, what mother
wouldn't worry?
Lizzie, I worry all the time.
There it is.
I can't believe my
little pumpkin head
is going to middle
school already.
Can we go now?
I remember sitting
you up on a trash can
that first day of elementary.
You were so upset I had to
talk you into going, remember?
But it went okay.
I remember.
You know you're going
to be fine, right?
You know that.
Miranda!
Miranda!
Miranda!
Miranda: What?
Jess: Where is it?
What?
Where is it, my DS?
Miranda: I didn't--
Where is it?
Miranda: I don't know.
Jess: Where'd you put it?
Dave had it.
What is she talking about?
Go play.
I need to talk to Jess.
Go, go.
Sweetie, Dave and I have
given it a lot of thought.
Jess: What?
Well I, we don't think
it's such a good idea
for you to just have
it anytime you want, you know?
Dave's been reading about
children and video games...
Jess. Jess.
(up tempo music plays)
Uh huh. I don't know.
I'll take to you later, bye.
(beep)
(beep)
(beep)
Vanessa Van Storan.
Man: We need to talk, please.
But we've talked
forever about this.
What do you want me to say?
That I'm thrilled about
what you're doing?
Man: Listen...
No, listen to me for a change.
(sighs)
I wasn't ready for this stuff.
You didn't even ask me.
I feel like I don't even matter,
or what I think about this stuff
doesn't mean anything,
you know?
Man: Now, Jennifer, your mother
would want it this way.
You have to understand that.
I care more than
anyone can about you.
I'm your father.
I know, but I just miss her.
Man: I know you do,
I do too.
But why do you have
to be seeing Jane?
Man: Very good, that
was great, Vanessa.
Thanks.
Man: How old are you?
Great, thank you very much.
How'd it go?
Nailed it.
Woman on radio:
Yesterday in Najaf, Iraq,
the Defense Department
has confirmed
at least seven US Marines
were killed in the attack.
Sources are saying that
the incident occurred
at a roadblock and an improvised
explosive device was used.
Now the morning traffic.
It is a sticky morning out--
(phone rings)
This is Martin.
Hey, you!
Hey!
I didn't even hear
you leave this morning.
Cheryl:
I just wanted to let
you know I got the parcel off.
Good, did they say it was
going to make it on time?
Yeah, they said it should.
How are you?
You know...I'm...
Really?
Yeah, you know,
same old stuff.
Well keep the faith, hon.
It'll end eventually.
Yeah. Hey, is Lizzie there?
Hold on.
Here, Daddy
wants to say hello.
Hi, Daddy!
Martin:
Hey, baby, what's up with you?
Nuthin'
What are your
plans for the day?
I think I have a play
date with Jess and Vanessa.
Lizzie:
Do you want to talk to mommy?
Nah, that's okay, um...
Bye bye.
Bye!
(piano music plays)
Come on, come on!
Alright.
(phone rings)
Hello?
Oh, Jenine, it's
Linda Greldy from PTA.
Oh hi, how are you?
Linda:
Good, running Vanessa
around to all of her stuff.
Oh yeah.
Summer, got to love it, right?
Jenine
: Yup.
Well listen, Vanessa's
having some friends over
Linda:
to play today, and she
wanted Peri to come too.
Oh, you know, with everything
we've got going on
today I don't think we can.
Okay, another time then.
Mom, come on! Please?
Is she coming?
Hold on, Linda.
God...
I don't know what to do.
Linda? Sure, she'd love to.
Jenine:
You're the blue house
with the white fence, right?
That's right.
See you then.
She's coming.
Yay.
Mama...
Mom, I'm gonna go now.
What? Where are you going?
To Vanessa's house.
I told you.
Well let me take you.
It's just around the corner.
I know, but... you wait.
Help.
(slow dance music)
-Vanessa: Double double,
this this.
-Lizzie: Double double,
this this.
Double double, that that.
Double double, that that.
Double this, double that.
Double this, double that.
Double double, this that.
Double double, this that.
Double double, ice ice.
Double double, ice ice.
Double double, cream cream.
Double double, cream cream.
Double ice, double cream.
Double ice, double cream.
Double double, ice cream!
Double double, ice cream!
(laughing)
Yo yo yo!
Yo yo yo!
Yo yo yo!
(laughing)
Hey, Jess, how are you?
I haven't seen you
in a long time.
I'm good.
You think she's
handling it all okay?
Oh absolutely, that kid
is as strong as an ox.
My God, I can't imagine how
Lizzie would be
in that situation.
Have you met him?
No, you?
And?
I don't know what
she's thinking.
Hmm.
Well I better get going.
I'll call you later.
Okay, oh, how's Gerry doing?
Oh he's good, he's okay.
He's just...
There was a bad attack
I heard on the radio.
Oh no no,
he's not around there.
Oh, okay.
Alright, bye, Cheryl.
Okay, see you later.
Take a rest upon
the shore...
(hip hop music)
Lizzie, why'd you draw
a dog on a skateboard
with...what is that?!
(laughing)
Toilet paper!
Oh my God, what,
looks like a wig.
No.
Hey, I saw Peri today.
She's coming over too.
Peri? From school?
Yeah.
Why?
I don't know, why not?
Okay, wait, I got it.
Jess, draw your
favorite thing,
Then I'll add to it.
Then Vanessa you draw that
and we keep going on and on.
How do you draw Dylan?
-Aww!
-Aww!
Hey, Dylan's not
my favorite anymore.
I think his friend
Kevin's better.
Way better!
I like Dylan.
I don't.
Who do you like besides
your little elephant?
Nobody.
(laughing)
Okay, so call me
before you're done
not when you're done, okay?
I know.
It's the one with
the picket fence.
Okay.
Why don't you just
drive her up there?
Because, okay?
Ready?
Peri: Yup.
(doorbell rings)
Oh, hello, Peri.
Hi.
Where's your mom?
(car drives by)
Okay, well come in.
The others are in
Vanessa's room.
You can go ahead.
It's just down the hall there.
Thank you.
(girls singing)
And the boys are the best
Where the east, us--
(knocking at door)
-Peri, yay!
-Hey, Peri.
Hi guys, hi.
Yo yo yo!
-Yo yo yo!
-Yo yo yo!
Yo yo yo.
Come on in.
Cool room, Vanessa.
Yeah, I like it.
Your actor's
picture, Van Storan?
It's a stage name.
Peri: Really?
My God, that is so cool.
I guess.
Sometimes it seems stupid.
-It's not stupid, Vanessa.
-Yeah.
Yeah, whatever.
How do you do it?
What, act?
Yeah, acting.
I mean it's awesome
that you can do it.
Do you just...
Just act. It's easy.
Jess: Here, show us.
You try it, Jess, I dare ya!
(laughs)
Okay, where do I start?
Start from where
it says scene 2.
Daddy, I know,
I just miss her.
I know you do. I do too.
But why do you have
to be seeing Jane?
Because I want
to be happy again.
Yeah, it is hard to do.
Can I try?
Here you go.
Hey, Peri, did
you bring your DS?
I don't--
No, I forgot it.
Hey hey.
Thank you.
Woman: Marty, they need
you to sign this.
Let me see.
Okay.
Woman: Thanks.
(laughing)
I think my mom should
go out with my manager.
Why?
Well I just see the way
they look at each other.
Like they want each other.
Chemicals.
Chemistry.
Whatever.
Yup, it's so obvious it's gross.
Yeah, I know.
Like Dave and your mom.
Stop.
Sorry.
It's okay, I guess.
It's just talking about
it makes me think about it,
then I feel bad.
Why? What if they have
to be with each other?
Come on.
No really.
What if they're
the one true love
that was meant to be?
Lizzie, you read
too many books.
Yeah, that can happen
even after a break up.
Maybe, Lizzie,
but not this guy.
She should take him anyway.
Unless some other guy comes
along with his own house.
We have a house.
I'm going to the bathroom.
If Gerry got killed in Iraq,
my mom and dad would just die.
That would just be really bad
and that's just...
Lizzie, don't worry.
Gerry's going to come home.
I keep hearing
about the insurg--
Gerry's going to come home,
just wait and see.
(water running through pipes)
(piano music plays)
(water stops)
(footsteps)
(door opens, closes)
Did you have a shower?
Yeah.
Cool.
I think I have an armpit hair.
Really?
(dramatic music
plays through TV)
(sighs)
Yeah...okay.
Okay. Bye.
Daddy.
Yeah, we're okay.
Nothing, went to
Vanessa's house.
When can I see you again?
No, when.
Why?
Yeah, I know, sometimes
it just kills.
When can I talk to you again?
How about tomorrow?
The day after?
Okay, bye Daddy.
Maybe we'll hear
something tomorrow, huh?
About what?
Today's TV movie audition.
Whatever.
Hey, there are plenty
of other actresses
in this town who
will happily take
the gig if you don't want it.
I know.
It's not a feature,
but it's work.
Why can't Ron get me
in for more features?
I don't know.
You had some fun today, huh?
Linda: What do you know
about Peri?
Nothing much.
Hoo boy...
What?
Did you see her clothes?
What kind of mother would have
her daughter dress like that?
I don't know.
I think her shoes were hurting.
Unbelievable.
(floor creaking)
Martin: Hey!
Come on, it's time.
Should be right away.
Sure we got the time right?
Hey! Gerry hi!
We can see you!
Hey hey!
Yeah, it's working.
I can see you too.
Oh my God.
Gerry:
Hey, Mom.
Hey Gerry, how are you?
Yeah, I'm okay.
Everything's okay here.
What about there?
Oh, we're fine.
Gerry:
Yeah? Hey, who's that
princess I see there?
Hey.
Gerry:
Hey, how you doing, baby?
Good.
Yeah? You being a good girl?
Sure...sometimes.
(laughing)
Hey, Gerry, is it pretty, you
know, busy where you are?
No, it's pretty dead.
I'm going to get killed
from the boredom.
Martin: Good.
I guess.
Baby, listen, I sent you
a parcel for your birthday
you should get it in time.
Gerry:
Okay.
Can we see you like
this again, or...
No, I don't think I get
to do this for a while again.
Well then I guess we're
going to have to sing for you.
Gerry:
No no no no no,
no you don't!
No!
Gerry, are you saying
you don't like our singing?
(laughing)
Yeah!
(Unison) Happy....
Oh no! Stop stop stop stop!
Okay here, I'll blow out
the candles, alright?
Alright, you ready?
(blows)
Yay! Happy birthday!
(piano music plays)
Shouldn't walk around
with those things on.
You'll run into something.
I mean a train could
come by and hit you
and you wouldn't hear it.
That's not a final draft.
It's just some sketches.
It looks like our room.
Yeah it is, for now.
We're thinking of moving
my business into the house.
What?
It's a smart move...save
a lot of money by doing it.
But that's our room!
Don't worry about it, sweetie.
We'll fix the den up real
nice for you and Miranda.
Dave: Okay?
It'll work.
Could you put your glass
in the dishwasher please?
What's the matter?
Stay here.
Where are you going?
(piano music plays)
Open up you wild one
Let me know more
than your name
Take out the judgments
Let me know you
feel the same way
How many times I've
been to this place
So much of your smile
makes me feel like a new way
Was chiseled away
concrete walls into dust
I know I must
give it away, I say
Give it away, I say
If I plan to keep
this sunny day
Jenine: Yes, absolutely.
Today?
This after...well
I understand that.
Yeah, I'll be there.
Thank you.
What's up?
They want to see me for
that job interview today.
What am I going to do?
I'm not ready for this.
Jeff, you can stay at
Wayne's for a bit, right?
They said anytime.
I don't want to go to Wayne's.
Oh, Peri, give me a break!
What am I supposed
to do with you today?
I can't take you to
the job interview.
Take me to Vanessa's.
Come on, it'll be fine.
Let's just go.
Okay, we'll do
what we did before.
I'll drop you off,
make sure they're home...
I can't let them
see inside the car.
(doorbell rings)
Jess.
You okay?
Yeah.
-Really?
-Jess: Mm-hmm.
Is Vanessa here?
Sure, she's in her
room with Lizzie.
Go surprise them.
(doorbell rings)
-Hi!
-Ron: Hey.
Linda:
What are you doing here?
Well I could have
called from the office,
but I was on my way
and I was close, so...
Okay, you want some coffee?
Yeah.
I just got off the phone
with Derry Cassel,
and they are recasting
something this afternoon.
It's a feature.
It's Alec Baldwin.
It's for the role
of the daughter.
Whoa, really?
Ron: Donna's sending over sides.
They won't release a script.
Vanessa, come here!
Is she's going to be up to
get it together
by this afternoon?
Hey, beautiful!
Hi, Ronny.
You've got a feature
audition today.
Whoa, cool!
Yeah, okay, you go play.
I'll give you the sides
when they come in.
You two, you have to
let her learn it, okay?
I think you're going to have
to come along to the audition.
Okay? Scoot.
So...
(inaudible)
Is it good?
Shh!
(coughing)
Okay, I need to run it
a few times to find it.
You memorized it that quickly?
Okay, I'm Patricia and
you guys are everyone else.
Ever since I was four years old,
I knew all about him,
everything.
I figured out that my Daddy
wasn't really who
he said he was.
But it just wasn't right
to call him a liar.
It just didn't fit.
Oh never mind,
I'll call him later.
Okay, bye.
Hi, Mr. Wilson.
How are things?
Fine, I guess.
Yes, why?
Oh never mind.
I'll call later.
Okay, bye.
That you used to rob
banks, is that true?
Don't you ever ask me.
Is it true?
Daddy, you said...
(inaudible)
(piano music plays)
Some kids at school told me
that you...that you
used to rob banks.
Is that true?
Daddy, how could you
have never told me
something like this before?
How, Daddy?
You are amazing!
Vanessa, you are so
going to get this part.
Maybe.
Linda:
Come on, come on, come on.
Let's go, let's go, let's go!
Do we need my head shot?
No, never take a head shot
to a feature audition.
It makes you look desperate!
My mom is having
a job interview,
so can I stay here?
Oh God!
What did she do,
just drop you off?
Yeah.
(sighs)
Well...you're going
to have to come with us.
Vanessa has an audition.
Wait...
Peri, I'm sorry to
have to say this.
You can't wear that.
This audition,
it's too important.
Linda: Vanessa, lend Peri
something to wear.
Now, go go go.
We're going to be late!
Ugh.
(harmonic music)
Come on, girls.
Sit down.
Hi.
Sit!
(office phone ringing)
Crystal, are you ready?
Are you reading for
the role of Angie?
Me? Heh. No.
Woman: Here she is!
Man: Why don't you just
come here and give me a hug!
She was so good in
that last film...
It's okay.
Man: Okay, do you have any
questions about the script?
Did you nail it?
(laughing)
Hold her back!
Come on!
It's them.
Who?
Dylan and Kevin.
Can't you guys
keep it in the yard?
Can't you throw it this far?
Nice.
What 'cha doing?
Hanging out. What about you?
We're getting
ready to go camping.
Our team won Tri City.
Oh yeah, we go on to
the valley competition.
Cool.
Hi, Lizzie.
Soccer.
(up tempo music plays)
Lizzie: Go!
Dylan: Kick it in.
Vanessa: Come on!
(chatter)
(cheering)
Girls: We won!
Yay, we made it!
Lucky shot.
Really?
Really.
No.
Jess, you've played before.
Duh.
Is there a soccer
team in Jordan?
No, we'll be lucky if
we get to play in P.E.
I hate P.E.
Me too.
Lizzie: I don't want to
do P.E. every day.
I love it.
I hate being stuck
in class all day.
I hate being stuck in anything.
Peri, did you guys move?
No.
Did you sell your house?
Well we might be.
There was a sign.
Yeah, we might.
Are you moving?
No.
Lizzie, is your
brother still in Iraq?
Yeah.
That is so, so cool.
I guess.
Vanessa, are you still acting?
Yeah.
My mom saw you
on that CSI show.
She had a big audition today.
Shh, don't want to jinx it.
I think I could act.
Seems easy.
Oh really?
(laughing)
(radio chatter)
(jet flies by)
(explosions)
(sighs)
He's coming home, Lizzie.
Gerry's coming home.
(buzz saw)
(piano music plays)
(eerie music plays)
Where's Mom?
In Gerry's room.
Did that just come?
What? Yeah,
they just dropped it off.
That won't work
under that bed.
Cheryl, it won't work.
(sighs)
Why would they send it
if it's not going to work?
It's okay, we'll just have him
stay in Lizzie's room
for a while.
We'll get him a new bed.
Jesus...
Martin: Honey, come here.
Don't--
No, yes, come on.
(sobbing)
My boy!
Cheryl: He's my little boy!
Great news.
She is in the running.
It's between her
and one other girl.
They won't tell me who it is.
The feature, she's in the mix.
They're already checking on
flights for you guys.
Is that great or what?
If Vanessa books this it is
a minimum of $40,000 to her.
Yesterday I saw a mother
and her two kids by
the side of the road.
They're living in their car.
Yeah, there's a lot of that.
Ron, I know them.
I hate myself.
(motor whirring)
Lizzie, come on.
Your parents are
bringing him home
from the hospital any minute.
Jess, I can't.
Jess: Lizzie, listen.
You can.
It's okay.
Lizzie, look at me.
Look at me, Lizzie.
Jess: You have to see him
and talk to him.
It'll be weird, but just
think how he feels, right?
(somber music)
Hey, you okay?
(piano music plays)
(picks up phone)
(dialing phone)
Jenine:
Hello?
Jenine, hi. It's Linda,
Vanessa's mom.
How are you?
Jenine:
Hi, Linda.
Just fine, just
trying to stay cool.
Right, um...
Listen, I'd love to
have you and the kids
over this afternoon
if you're not busy.
Have some coffee.
Vanessa would love to see Peri.
Jenine:
Oh...well--
Jenine, please,
I'd love to see you.
I know all of
Vanessa's friend's moms
and I've hardly even
talked to you or anything.
What do you say?
Jenine:
Well okay, we can
come for a while.
What time?
Can you come around 3:00?
Jenine:
Sure, we'll
see you then.
Bye.
Okay, bye.
(knocking at door)
Can I come in?
I'm making some tea.
Would you like a cup?
Gerry: No.
Okay.
(laughing)
Kids, you know.
It's hard!
Doing the right thing and all.
It is.
Sometimes I think I push her
too hard sometimes,
you know, the acting thing,
but she really,
really loves it.
I can't imagine Peri
doing anything like that.
Linda: You think she
wouldn't like it?
No, it's not that.
It's just...
it's not going to happen.
How are you doing?
Fine.
Fine.
I...
(sighs)
I have a guest house.
It's empty, warm.
Jenine, I would
like nothing better
than to have you use
it for as long as you
need to with
absolutely no shame.
(piano music plays)
Gerry, have some more salad.
No, I'm done.
You hardly ate anything.
Well think about it.
I don't need much energy.
Right?
Right?!
I suppose.
You went ahead
and grew up on me,
didn't you, Princess?
Yeah.
Do you have a boyfriend?
No.
Why not?
I'm 10.
It doesn't matter.
Leave her alone.
What?
She's got her birthday
coming up in a week.
I just thought maybe,
I don't know, 10 years old...
Gerry, please.
-Princess...
-Lizzie: Hmm?
Get me another beer?
Yeah.
Haven't you had enough?
I'll stop when
I've had enough.
Thank you.
Cheryl:
Leave it alone. I'll get it.
No, just, just...
(Gerry grunts)
Gerry: Damn it!
Cheryl: Marty, no!
(Martin grunts)
What, are you going
to bend me over your knee?
You can kill
yourself all you want.
I would too, but I'm not going
to let it go on forever!
Got it?!
Not when you're here.
You're not going to
drag us down with you!
This wasn't the plan.
Then why the hell
did you enlist?!
I've been meaning to ask you.
Why did you put the ramp
at the back door?
Hey, the hot water works.
It takes forever to warm up,
but it works.
The bed is a trundle
pull out thingy
so two of you can sleep here
and one of you on the couch?
That'd be great.
Okay, and the phone works
so if you need it.
Oh I've got a cell phone,
so I won't be needing it.
I'm really glad you're here.
Vanessa, let's let
them get settled.
Alright, goodnight.
Jenine: Goodnight.
Pretty cool, huh?
I can't believe
you just did that.
I can't either.
Girl 1:
Today, when I would talk
to my friends
Terry, Billy, and...
-Back more?
-Yeah.
Okay, now we're on
the window, there's no--
No, I like it there.
If you like it there, it won't
make any sense there.
We've, it's not good...
-Hold on.
-I'll put it there.
(TV chatter)
Turn it down please.
-Girl 1:
Are you sure?
-Girl 2:
Absolutely!
Girl 1:
Okay!
Sorry.
(clears throat)
Okay, now the cutaway
that I'm thinking
about is when she's
at the car and...
(TV chatter continues)
I said turn it down!
-Girl 1:
Um, did you forget?
-Girl 2:
I think I did!
- (laugher on TV)
- Girl 1:
Come on!
Did you hear me?!
(volume increases)
(TV chatter continues)
Just try me.
Ooh, get it.
Yay!
(unison) Cake
cake cake cake cake!
Okay!
Mom, what button is
it to see the pictures?
I think daddy said
the green arrow?
So how are you?
Oh, you know, okay.
Really?
Well it's been hard adjusting
to Gerry coming back like that.
Marty had to make some room
in the bathroom and the hallway.
So...
How's Gerry doing?
(sighs)
It's like I never knew him.
He's just not like
I remember him.
He's refusing
any psych help and...
Well we'll get through it
because we always do,
and things will get better.
Hey guys, let's take
acting head shot pictures!
Lizzie: Yeah!
Peri: Vanessa, show us.
How do I show you?
Lizzie: You just do it.
Come on, show us.
Okay, fine.
Peri, go stand over there.
Back up a little.
There.
Now when they take
my head shot
they always have this big
white cardboard thingy.
Why?
I don't know, but I think
it makes a difference.
Jess, you've got
a white shirt on.
Come here and stand
close to Peri.
Kind of under her.
Let's try.
Wait, not yet.
Peri, look at me.
When you act, or have
your picture taken,
you've got to fill your brain
with the right thoughts.
Now look down at the ground
and think of something
that makes you feel good.
Don't stop thinking about it.
Now when I tell you,
look up at the camera
and, Lizzie, you take the shot.
Think, Peri.
Now look up.
Wow, look at that!
That's so funny, look.
Are they doing head shots?
You watch, Vanessa's
going to turn
then all into little actresses.
How's that going anyway?
She's still doing the...
She's down to
the wire for a film
that's between her
and another kid.
It will be just a dream
come true for her.
She wants to do
a feature so badly.
We're all pulling for her.
Thanks, yeah.
She'll be heartbroken if
this one doesn't happen.
She'll miss the beginning
of school though.
It shoots in New York until
the beginning of
November, so...
Dave: Hello!
Dropping this off
for the sleepover.
Julie called me from work,
said Jess probably forgot it.
I'm Dave.
Hey, Cheryl.
Hi. Um...
This is Linda and Jenine.
-Linda: Hi.
-Jenine: Hi.
Linda: Do you want
piece of cake?
Oh, no, I got to
get back to work.
Well Jess is right
there if you need her.
That's okay.
Just make sure she gets the bag.
Thanks.
That him?
Mm-hmm
Wow.
Mm-hmm
Oh yeah.
Was that your mom's boyfriend?
Wait, is he here?
No, he left.
Good, I don't have to see him.
He's your favorite, isn't he?
He seems cool.
Stop, you're going
to make me throw up.
What if they get married?
They won't unless my mom
gets pregnant or something.
How do people get pregnant?
Lizzie...
Yeah?
Did you just say...
You don't know how that works?
Well listen, kiddo.
You're in luck, we know
everything about it.
Listen up...
(jazzy music plays)
Lizzie?
My parents did that?
Twice.
Cheryl: You girls having fun?
(pouring drink)
Come on!
(laughing)
Oh, I have to pee.
Just go by the tree behind it.
No way, you'd never do it!
I'd do it in a sec.
You dare me?
Wait, I'll do it too.
You guys are so gross!
Hey, we're not blood sisters
we're pee sisters!
(laughing, urinating)
I urine for you!
Lizzie: I call center.
Vanessa: Center!
Lizzie: Aw man, I wanted it.
Vanessa: Ok, you're the birthday
girl, you can have it.
Lizzie: Thanks, I don't want
to be on the outside
because that's where
the axe murderer
will hit first.
Jess: Great, how am I supposed
to sleep with that in my head?
Lizzie: Just think
of nice things.
Jess: Like when doing
a head shot, right?
Vanessa: No!
Think of Dylan!
Vanessa: Bark!
I mean barf!
(laughing)
Bar-arf!
Happy birthday, Lizzie.
Thanks.
Vanessa: What did you wish for
when you blew out the candles?
It's a secret.
If I tell you it
won't come true.
Probably won't anyway.
You don't know that.
I wished...that Gerry
never went over there
and he could still
walk and stuff.
That's a good one.
What would you
wish for, Vanessa?
Absolutely without
a doubt that feature.
Peri?
A house, you know.
Jess?
I don't know.
Either my mom and dad
getting back together
or someone to spend
my life with for good.
(piano music plays)
(Gerry muttering)
We're gonna...
everything's going to be...
I, I can't...
(slapping)
(sobbing)
(piano music plays)
Linda: More coffee?
Jenine: It's okay.
Thanks for yesterday.
What?
You covered for me.
Getting a gift for Lizzie
and saying it's from Peri.
Right.
(sighs)
God...I can't even
buy a kid's birthday gift.
I never saw this coming.
Never.
It's just one thing
led to another, and...
before you know it,
here I am.
I'm trying to stay
under the radar here.
So that guy that showed
up at the party, Dave.
Is Jess okay with that?
I don't think so,
but she'd never show anybody.
She's...I don't know.
How about you?
Do you have anyone?
Oh, there's someone.
He's special, blah blah.
But I don't know about it.
Okay, I got it.
What's your favorite season?
Fall for sure.
Because that's when the
holidays and stuff starts.
Like Thanksgiving?
I love Thanksgiving.
I don't.
It's family getting together
and pretending
they care and all.
Sorry.
It's okay, I guess but,
summer's my favorite
right now.
I love this, no school,
no homework,
no fights on the school yard.
It's the best.
Vanessa: You know,
why do we act so bad sometimes?
I can be friends
with somebody one day
and just hate
their guts the next.
We should promise each other.
What?
That we stay best friends
in middle school, you know?
Stop fighting and
help each other--
Oh, it's stupid.
Yeah, it's probably stupid
because we'll make new friends
and sometimes hardly even
talk to each other.
You guys, come on.
I don't think it's stupid.
I want to know I have you guys
as friends no matter what.
I need that.
(rattling)
Gerry, want to play
what's your favorite?
No.
Come on, it's cool.
Don't.
What is it?
It's a game. You take turns
answering that question.
You're Jess, right?
Yeah.
Jess...I don't
like anything.
Okay.
It's supposed to make you
feel better or something?
Yeah, sometimes it does.
Okay, Vanessa, favorite
day of the week.
Oh, I don't...
I guess Tuesday.
My acting class is that day.
You look forward to it?
Yeah.
Okay, Peri, favorite
day of the week?
Sunday.
America's Funniest
Home Videos
is on.
Serious?
Yeah, then I can forget
stuff like...stuff.
Okay Lizzie, favorite
day of the week?
Friday.
Yeah!
Lizzie: When I know school's
out and I have two days
to not sit behind that desk.
My favorite day of
the week is Saturday.
I love waking up
early by mistake
and then realizing
it's Saturday.
I can go back to sleep.
It's the best!
Gerry: Sunday.
I hated Sundays.
Still...taking watch
every 60 minutes.
It always reminded me
of homework and exams.
But which day
is your favorite?
They all seem the same.
I never really know
what day it is anymore.
Hey guys, listen.
I hear you talking
about middle school
and how you're scared
of it and all of that,
but...let me tell you.
Middle school,
and high school even,
just goes by in a flash.
It doesn't matter.
I mean none of it
matters once you're out.
Anyone who was hassling you
while you were in school,
you almost never even
see them anymore.
Gerry: Just do your work and
forget about everything else.
Really.
You just got to enjoy
yourself, you know?
'Cause you never know
what could happen.
(ice cream truck
music plays)
Ice cream, come on everybody!
I have birthday money!
Hurry!
No no, wait...
What are you doing?
Ice cream, dude, come on.
I was a spotlight
shining down on you
Always you were ahead
I was a shadow
walking behind you
Always you did the talking
I was the silence
between all the words
That was always our history
Jess: Wait up!
You standing in front of me
It's my time now
I've waited long
enough to know
It's my time now
I've got the
battle scars to show
It's my time now
My time now
Used to cover you up
Just like a blanket
keeping the cold out
Used to lock all the doors
So you could safely
fall asleep in my arms
Gerry: You guys
trying to kill me?
Lizzie: Okay everybody,
my treat.
Yay!
But don't get
anything too expensive.
Lizzie: Do you guys all want
a fudge bomb pop?
(all) Yeah!
Lizzie: Okay, then five fudge
bomb pops please.
(chatting)
Dylan: Hey guys.
-Oh hey.
-Hi.
Have you guys met
Lizzie's brother?
-Hey.
-Hi.
Hey guys.
Iraq.
People should have
ice cream every day.
Lizzie: Uh-huh.
No, you can't have
good things every day
because then they
don't mean anything.
Thanks for the ice cream.
You're welcome.
Gerry: I got a gum ball.
(piano music plays)
(door opens)
Mom...he's...
He's gone.
So I'm starting
therapy next week.
So maybe you can walk again?
No, Princess.
That ain't going to happen.
It's therapy for my head.
Martin: Good.
(doorbell rings)
Come in.
I could have called, but...
But you were in
the area, right?
No.
Who's here?
Hi, Ronny!
Hey.
They really loved you.
Honey, you were so close.
You have no idea.
Oh God, I'd better go--
You know what? Let me.
I think I need to be alone.
But I'm your manager.
(sighs)
If there was
anybody in the world
I could fix this for
it would be you, kid.
Vanessa, I know you probably
can't even hear me
right now
because you're feeling so sad.
You need to feel this
sadness for a bit.
But, honey, you are
headed for great things.
This will not be
your last chance.
I promise.
(piano music plays)
Hey.
Hey.
Gerry: So, middle school.
Yeah.
It's not so bad, Princess.
You start your therapy today?
He's good to have along.
(birds squawking)
Parrots are back.
I can't believe it's over.
What?
Summer.
Is it too late to go
back to the fifth grade?
Come on.
Jenine: Hey girls.
Mom, you look incredible.
Well...
You're nervous.
It's a new job.
Of course I'm nervous.
Whoa, I've got to get going.
Don't want to be late
on my first day, right?
Thank you.
See you, dude.
Brother: Bye.
Good luck, Mom.
(car honks)
Hey, Linda.
Linda: Good morning.
Thanks for taking her.
I just had to get Miranda
settled, you know?
No problem.
Yo yo yo!
Lizzie: Yo yo yo!
Oh man.
This is nuthin'.
Come on you guys,
you're going to be late.
-Happy first day of school.
-I love you too honey.
Bye, have a good one.
Bye, Jess.
Bye.
Bye, Peri, have a good time.
Cheryl: Hoo boy.
What?
This is hard.
I don't even know
if she's ready for this yet.
Hey guys.
Hey.
So, Vanessa, I thought
you were in New York.
No.
Yeah, you were supposed to do
a big movie or something.
What happened?
Nothing.
What happened,
Vanessa Van Storen?
Leave me alone!
Aww, I think
everybody's waiting
for a big movie.
Shut up!
What, you done
anything better lately?
Come on, hot stuff,
let's hear it.
Listen, you little --
Little what?
Say it.
Come on guys,
we're going to be late.
Lizzie?
What?
Nothing.
Dad!
Oh baby, hello!
What are you doing here?
Well, I couldn't
miss my girl's
first day of middle school,
could I?
(Jess chuckles)
Oh, I missed you so much.
Me too, honey. Me too.
Are you back for good?
Are you...
I'm working on it.
I'm never going to leave
you guys again.
Don't worry. I'm here.
Are you and Mom...
Uh...
I don't know yet.
We're going to work
something out
that works for everybody, okay?
We'll see.
Don't let go.
Dad: I'm here. I'm here.
Oh hey, you got to go.
Your friends are here.
Can I see you after school?
I'll pick you up.
Oh hey, wait,
let me get a picture.
Dad: Alright, one...two...
Oh, wait wait.
Come here.
Look.
(laughing)
Come on, guys.
(unison) Bye!
-Jess: Bye, Daddy.
-Bye.
(school bell rings)
It's my time now
Once we live
long enough to know
It's my time now
I've got the
battle scars to show
It's my time now
My time now
Jump off the cloud,
and I'm flying
Through the open space
Sun is shining on my face
Back then you were the sun
I was a planet
revolving around you
it's my time now
(up tempo music continues)