Tall, Dark and Dangerous (2024) Movie Script

The weatherman is calling
for partly cloudy skies tonight.
Along the coast.
The lows around 54 and a
daytime high tomorrow forecast.
Of 81 degrees under clear skies.
With absolutely no
chance of rain...
You can expect your weekend
to be clear and sunny.
In regional news.
Pollen growers in
the central valley.
Will air their grievances
Friday in a special town meeting.
Where representatives.
Of the resources
board will be present.
To discuss a state
water rationing plan.
The mayor has announced
that she will not be...
Will you just leave me alone!
You told me
you weren't gonna be home.
It's none of your business
where I am or what I'm doing!
Now stop calling me or also
I'm calling the police!
Door is open.
Door is open.
Jake?
- It's me.
- Jake.
Come on. Come on.
Come here.
Hey, it's me. You're safe.
I promise.
I don't think there's
anything left to say.
Except congratulations, partner.
Partner? Are you serious?
I'm as serious
as a heart attack,
As serious as I was when I
asked you to close a deal.
On the mill road shopping mall.
Well, that was a
joint effort, ed.
I just ran point.
Modesty is no virtue,
Alice. Not here.
And besides, I spoke
with dean black line,
The ceo of Broadway development,
And he said he's never
worked with anyone.
Who understood the deal
parameters as well as you do.
And believe me, I know the
zoning laws are byzantine.
I'm just glad it all worked out.
And I'm really glad
to have made partner.
I won't let you down.
I'm sure of that.
I'll send out the official
announcement tomorrow.
For now, you have one job.
It's a big one though.
Celebrate.
I'm so proud of you, Alice!
Proud and jealous.
- Your time is coming.
- Janie. Mark my words.
You are the youngest partner
in this firm's history.
Do you know that?
I just got assigned to
a good deal, that's all.
It was only a good deal
because of the work that you did.
I heard ed talking
to Ashton Bradley.
Nobody thought that mill
road was salvageable.
Where there's a
will, there's a way.
Oh, bs!
When you work 60-hour
weeks, there's a way.
I'm just glad the
board finally realized.
How valuable you
are to the firm.
It's your time.
It's our time,
Janie. Our time.
- How about we head out?
- I'll buy you a real drink.
A rain check. I have
a date with my bed.
Now that that deal's closed,
I have to catch up
on some sleep, Janie.
Come on. Just one drink.
Maybe you'll find
yourself a real date?
Oh, I am doing just
fine in that department,
Thank you very much.
Oh, yeah?
When was the last time
you went out with someone?
Um...
I had drinks with Saul
miller on Monday night.
Saul miller is your colleague.
He's also 72 years old and
happily married with four kids!
Okay, fine.
Well, there's plenty of time
for dating in the future.
Yeah, but valentine's
day is coming up.
What?
You promise not to judge me?
No.
Okay.
What is this? Be my valentine?
It's an app.
I can see that.
It's for busy professionals.
Well, you certainly
fit the bill.
"Enjoy the holiday year-round
on be my valentine."
They just launched.
I'm sure they did it
before the holiday.
You know, all the
free publicity.
Oh my god!
Would you look at
some of these guys?
I know.
This one is gorgeous.
I'm going to "shoot
my arrow" at this one.
No, don't!
I'm gonna do it!
I'm gonna do it, I'm
gonna do, I'm gonna do it!
Janie, I'm serious!
You jerk!
- Okay, come on.
- Let's get out of here.
Ugh!
Ugh!
Hey.
He shot me back.
What?
The guy from the app,
the one that you contacted,
He shot an arrow back.
It means he's interested.
No way!
So what are you
gonna do about it?
Nothing, obviously.
What do you mean, nothing?
I mean, nothing. I
told you not to do it.
Alice, why would
you download that app.
If you're not gonna
take it seriously?
Hey, I am taking it
seriously, but on my own time.
When I find someone I think
is compatible, I'll reach out.
What difference does it make?
He's not gonna know it was me.
Yeah, but I know.
Alice, maybe your
eyes have gone bad.
From looking at
contracts for so long,
But that guy was gorgeous.
I'll think about it, okay?
Okay. Bye.
Hello, hello.
Testing one, two. Testing.
Hi, my name is Jason Monroe.
My name is Jason Monroe.
I grew up in a small
town near black island.
I graduated college with a
degree in political science.
I traveled abroad for a
year, wasting time in Europe.
Once I decided I
wanted to be a lawyer,
I was torn between business law.
And something a little
more altruistic.
Is that him?
Don't sneak up
on me like that!
I hardly snuck up. I was
watching for a few minutes.
So, where are you meeting him?
Meadowlark.
What? Is that not a good place?
As good as anywhere else.
So then why are you
giving me that look?
Are you sure this
is a good idea?
Are you serious right now?
Janie, you're the one
who started all of this.
As a joke.
I never thought it
would get this far.
What do you mean, this far?
We haven't even met yet.
I know, but...
I mean, you looked
him up, right?
Of course I did.
And?
And he didn't use a filter
on his profile picture.
He looks just as
good everywhere else.
Well, maybe I
should go with you.
Where?
On my date?
Mm-hm.
I think showing
up with a chaperone.
Might be a deal breaker.
Oh, I would just
hide out in the back.
He wouldn't even have to know.
Now, Janie, I know
it's been a while,
But I have been
on a date before.
We'll be in a public place.
Nothing's gonna happen
that I can't handle.
Fine.
But you call me.
You call me if anything
doesn't feel right.
I'll be fine.
Just take this.
What is this?
Pepper spray.
I am never without it. You
can never be too careful.
Thanks, but no, I'm going
on a date, not off to war.
Alice?
How do you know my name?
Because I'm Jason.
I'm sorry.
I don't mean to disappoint you.
No, no.
It's not that.
You don't look anything
like your photo.
Well, that's because
it's not my picture.
So who is it?
It's my roommate.
His name is Jason Monroe,
And that's why, when
you looked him up,
Which I'm sure you did,
similar photos came up.
So who are you?
- Chris Williams.
- Nice to meet you.
You're angry with
me, aren't you?
Well, do you blame me?
I mean, you got me here
under false pretenses.
False pretenses? You really
are a lawyer, aren't you?
And you're not.
But Jason is, right?
Yeah, well, he is not
only better looking,
But he's also a lot more
successful, I'm afraid.
Oh.
So what do you do?
What do I...
- For work?
- Mm-hm.
What do I do?
Well, a little bit of this, a
little bit of that.
Right now I'm in between jobs.
I don't understand. Why
not just use your own photo?
I mean, if you were me,
Wouldn't you rather
look like Jason?
But I mean, somebody like you,
You've probably never been told.
You're anything but
beautiful, right?
It was all a lie.
What woman in her right
mind would go out with you.
After learning the truth?
You mean what I look like?
No!
About how you're not
who you said you were.
Well, an understanding
woman, I would hope.
I'm sorry, Chris, but
I really feel played.
Look, I'm sorry. No, hold on.
Let me buy you
another drink, okay?
It's the least I can do.
Let me make it up to you.
I think not.
Chris, you actually seem like
you might be a decent guy,
So can I give you
a bit of advice?
Mm-hm.
The problem isn't your
looks. You're handsome.
It's your judgment.
If you ever hope to get a woman,
don't ever try this again.
Wait, hold on, hold on, hey.
It's almost valentine's day.
You're not gonna believe
what just happened.
And as I was leaving,
He reminded me that
valentine's day is coming up.
That is so incredibly weird.
I know. You think?
So, what are you gonna do?
What do you mean,
what am I gonna do?
I'm not gonna do anything.
Mm, maybe report
him to the app.
Maybe there's a way you
could warn other users.
I think at this point, I
just wanna forget about him.
You know? Pretend this
whole thing never happened.
Yeah, I don't blame you.
Oh my god.
What?
It's a text from him.
What does it say?
"You will be my valentine."
Come on in.
These are for you. A
little valentine's day gift.
Except I'm single.
Who are they from?
I don't know.
Did they leave a
card or anything?
Not that I can see.
Are you sure they're for me?
Well, the delivery guy did
say Alice miles. That's you.
Hmm.
Well, thank you, Paulina.
Alice miles.
Do you like 'em?
Who is this?
Alice, I'm a little insulted.
Did you send
these to me, Chris?
Of course.
There wasn't a card.
Well, I didn't think a
card would be necessary.
Who else would they be from?
Chris, the flowers
are lovely. Thank you.
But as I told you before, I
don't wanna see you again.
'Cause I
misrepresented myself.
That's right.
Well, just give me a chance
to show you the real me.
Chris, we're done.
Whoa, whoa, okay,
whoa, whoa, whoa.
Let me take you to an
early dinner, all right?
Forcino's, for valentine's day.
You won't regret it.
Are you okay?
I'm fine.
Chris, I gotta go.
Don't call me on
this line ever again.
Who was that?
That is what happens.
When you let your best
friend play matchmaker.
Happy valentine's day, sir.
Mr. Williams.
I have a reservation for
the valentine's day package.
Of course.
You're the first person
in your party to arrive.
Okay, here we go.
Let me know if you
have any questions.
- Thank you.
- Thank you.
This is so
much better than a date.
Valentine's day.
Who needs it?
Showering, getting dressed
up, putting makeup on?
What a drag.
Tell me about it.
Let me know
if you need anything.
May I open that for you, sir?
I'm still waiting on
somebody, thank you.
Of course.
Who would be calling
on valentine's day?
Probably the office.
Even ed is taking
his wife out.
It's Chris, the
guy from the app.
The catfisher?
Would you quit
calling him that?
It is so weird.
Well, that's what
they're called.
I thought you told him that
you didn't wanna see him again.
Yeah, I did, twice.
Well, clearly he
didn't get the message.
You're gonna answer it?
Are you crazy?
Oh, thank god.
Didn't he send you
flowers to the office too?
Yeah, don't remind me.
Roses. I hate roses.
He left a voice message.
Hi, Alice. It's Chris.
Happy valentine's day.
Listen, I don't
mean to disturb you.
I know it takes women a
long time to get ready,
But I just wanted to make sure.
That you didn't need any
help finding the restaurant.
I've been here an hour.
But that's okay. I
don't want you to rush.
I know the anticipation makes
things that much more special,
So I'll see you soon.
Can't wait.
What the hell was that?
Was that a joke?
I don't think so.
What was he talking about?
I...
You know, he did mention
to me when he called today.
About taking me to forcino's
for valentine's day.
Did you agree to it?
No! No way!
Well, then why is he there?
I don't know.
Mm.
Do you think I
should call him back?
What for?
- I feel kind of bad.
- He's just sitting there.
I mean, I don't wanna be cruel.
Unless you told him that
you were gonna meet him there,
You don't owe him
an explanation.
It's his problem that he's
sitting there, waiting for you.
Yeah, but I...
You're right.
You know what? Let's
have another drink.
Please.
Cheers.
Are you sure I can't
open that for you, sir?
How about a cocktail?
What part of "I'm
waiting for someone".
Didn't you understand?
I'm terribly sorry, sir.
It's just that you've been
waiting here for over an hour.
Is that a problem?
Well, it is valentine's day,
And there is other couples
that need to be seated.
Stop riding me, man.
That's what I was saying.
You're not gonna believe this.
Him again?
Should I just answer this.
And tell him never
to contact me again?
I don't know.
Thank goodness.
Probably gave up. That freak.
Just delete it.
There's nothing he could say
that you would wanna hear.
I have to listen.
That wasn't nice, Alice.
I don't appreciate
being stood up,
Especially on valentine's day.
I sat there.
I sat there and waited for you.
Until the waiter
asked me to leave.
Do you know how
embarrassing that is?
Can you imagine what those
people must think of me?
Of course, I forgive you.
So just give me a call back,
And we can reschedule for later.
After all, valentine's
day isn't over yet.
Call me back.
Okay, that was
officially nuts.
If I were you, I
would call the police.
And say what?
I mean, that wasn't
really harassment.
Yeah, it was crazy, but
it wasn't harassment.
What would you call it?
I don't know. Delusional?
What about the threat?
What threat?
The implied threat.
- Come on, Janie.
- You're a lawyer.
Even the most vigilant cop.
Isn't gonna follow up on that.
Yeah, you're probably right.
The worst part of it is,
If someone doesn't
know the whole story.
And they just listen to
these voice messages,
They're gonna think
that I'm in the wrong.
So then what are you gonna do?
I'll tell you the
first thing I'm gonna do.
There. He's blocked.
Good.
I still think you
should call the cops.
Janie, I already told you
Not because they're
gonna do something.
Just...
You know, so they have
a record in case...
What?
Nothing.
What, Janie?
In case things escalate?
You don't think this is over?
I don't know.
Ed wants to see you.
Why?
He didn't say. He just
said send you to his office.
You wanted to see me, ed?
Yes, Alice.
You've been keeping
something from me.
Ta-da!
Hi, honey.
Mwah!
Where were you
hiding this guy?
And a bay side
brawlers fan to boot!
What?
The bay side brawlers.
It's tough to find a minor
league baseball fan in this city.
I can't believe you
never told me about ed.
You know how obsessed I
am with minor league ball.
Oh, I guess it
just slipped my mind.
Look, I don't
wanna keep you two.
Were you on your way to lunch?
- Yes.
- No.
Next home stand?
Game's on me, ed.
You can count on it, pal.
See you guys.
What do you
think you're doing?
You should be thanking me.
Thanking you?
I have your boss eating
outta the palm of my hand.
Can you imagine what that
could do for your career?
I'm a partner
at this law firm!
I don't need you currying favor
with ed stein in order to...
Ugh!
Why are you doing this?
Why did you tell him
that we're dating?
Well, we just started talking.
I mean, what'd you
want me to say?
Yeah, but we're not dating.
I told you that I never
wanted to see you again.
Oh my god.
Your parents?
Don't touch that!
Are they nice people?
Look, Chris, what
do I have to do.
To make you understand that
I never wanna see you again?
You could answer
one question for me.
Okay. What?
Why'd you stand
me up for our date?
What date?
At forcino's for
valentine's day!
I never said that
I was gonna meet you.
At forcino's for
valentine's day,
Or any other day
for that matter!
Yes, you did. I asked
you, and you said, "fine."
Can we...
Can we start over?
We obviously have a a
great rapport, right?
You already said I was handsome.
Your boss loves me.
You can't be serious.
Why not?
Listen, Chris.
I'm gonna tell
you one more time,
Just to make sure there's no
misunderstanding whatsoever,
All right?
Okay.
Don't call me. Don't text me.
Don't email me. Don't
contact me at all.
I never want to see or
hear from you ever again.
You don't mean that.
And if you try,
I'll call the police.
Can you do that?
Do what?
Contact the police?
Of course I can.
I know that you can.
But what would they do?
I'll get a restraining
order against you,
And if you come near me,
they'll throw your ass in jail!
Well, you see, to do that,
You have to show persistent
and willful harassment.
I looked it up.
Your two o'clock is here.
Call me. Okay?
Bye. Have a good day.
Are you okay?
I'm fine.
I'm sorry, you don't
have a two o'clock.
I just figured it was getting...
I figured you could use it.
I appreciate that.
Who was that?
If you ever see
that guy again,
You let me know right away.
And if a Chris calls for me,
Tell him I'm out of
the office forever.
Got it.
Thanks, Paulina.
He's either a moron
or a sociopath.
Well, let's hope he's a moron.
We deal with those every day.
I'm serious, Janie.
I am too.
I'm the one that told
you to go to the police.
You should have seen ed.
It was like he had
found his long lost son.
You said he was talking to ed.
About the brawlers, right?
Yeah. So?
Well, there you go.
I mean, ed would talk
to the opposing counsel.
If it were about the brawlers.
You knew that about ed?
Of course. Other than work,
it's all he talks about.
It's like he lives
for that stupid team.
I think he had a minority
stake in it once.
But still, it
was really weird.
What was that?
Doorbell.
Did you order delivery?
No.
Hm. Just ignore it.
What if it's him?
He doesn't know
where you live.
It's not hard to
find out. Janie,
Don't answer it.
- You know what?
- I just wanna see.
I'll call you back.
Okay. Call me back.
Is there anyone there?
You nearly gave
me a heart attack.
You didn't call me
back. I was worried.
Sorry.
So who was it?
It was nobody.
It was a bag of
food from forcino's.
With a note.
I thought you said you
didn't order delivery.
I didn't. But I
think you were right.
I need to go to the police.
A late valentine's day date
is better than none at all.
Hmm.
Well, not particularly poetic,
But then again, my husband
wouldn't know our anniversary.
If I held my gun to his head.
But still, don't you think
it's totally inappropriate?
I mean, given everything
that I told you.
- Mm-hm, of course.
- Of course I do.
But inappropriate isn't illegal.
Yeah, but he lied
about everything.
I mean, who he was,
where he worked.
And he didn't just lie, he
stole someone else's identity,
Their image, all their personal
information, everything.
I know. You told
me all of this.
But it only becomes illegal.
If he uses this deception
to deceive you...
That's exactly what he did.
For financial or any
other type of gain.
He hasn't tried to extort you.
He hasn't tried
to steal anything.
Or use his fake id
to obtain anything.
A date.
If we lock up every man.
Who lied about
himself to get a date,
There wouldn't be anyone
walking the streets.
But this goes beyond.
Just a little white
lie, don't you think?
Not in the eyes of the law.
So what do you
suggest I do then?
Well, you can file
a restraining order.
Will that help?
Probably not.
Look, miss miles,
you're a lawyer,
So I feel like I can
be honest with you.
Restraining orders
are only as good.
As the people who follow them.
What do you mean?
They're a piece
of paper or two.
They can't prevent someone
from contacting you.
Well, yeah, but if he violates
the order of protection,
You can arrest him, right?
In theory.
What's that supposed to mean?
What kind of lawyer are you?
Real estate.
Let me give you some
insight into criminal law.
These kinds of cases are
notoriously hard to prosecute,
Especially when no violence
has been committed.
Now, I'm not saying
that it's right.
I'm saying that's what it is.
Want my professional opinion?
This guy sounds more like
a loser than a threat.
What if you're wrong?
The law sucks. You know
that better than anyone.
So, you wanna file the paperwork.
To get the restraining order?
What's the point?
Look, miss miles, I didn't
mean to discourage you.
I really didn't.
This is just the
reality of what it is.
It's okay. I understand.
Now, if he does anything else.
Other than just be a
nuisance, you call me,
And if at any time.
You want to file those
orders of protection,
That's your right too.
Okay.
Thanks, detective.
I appreciate it.
Mm-hm.
I got the evite.
What evite?
To your parents' barbecue?
Oh, that's right.
Are you going?
Of course.
Your mom has been
posting the menu.
On social media
for the past week.
Oh my god.
That's because my
dad cannot wait.
To try out his new grill
on an impartial audience.
I swear, he's like a
little kid with a new toy.
Mm. Free ribs?
I'd be there even if I
wasn't your best friend.
I appreciate that,
Even though I do know you
have ulterior motives.
You need to see this.
So, remember you
told me to be aware.
When Chris tried to
call for you again?
Mm-hm.
Well, he didn't call, but
he did try to friend me.
You didn't accept, did you?
Of course not.
But I did look at his profile.
Well, without full
access anyway.
And look.
Oh my god!
Alice, that's you.
No!
No, that's not me!
It is.
It's a deep fake.
A what?
A deep fake. It's alice's
face on someone else's body.
There's software that
makes that possible now,
As long as you know
what you're doing.
That's gotta be illegal.
It's not illegal either.
How do you know
all this, Paulina?
Carol made me do research
for one of her cases.
Apparently these deep fakes.
Are a huge issue
with celebrities.
People would try to make
them perform in adult films.
And every time they
take it to court,
They ruled it as a
first amendment issue.
So this guy can just pretend
to be my boyfriend, or worse?
I'll feel better when I
can get out of the city.
That's what fresh
air will do for you.
No, that's what getting away
from Chris will do for you.
Just try to enjoy
yourself today.
Don't even think about him.
What I keep thinking
about are those pictures.
They're on his
page, not yours.
No one you know
will ever see them.
Yeah, but just knowing
that they're out there.
I hate hate to say this,
But someone could print your
picture out from the web.
And paste it in a centerfold,
And you would never know, and
there's nothing you could do.
This is a lot different,
Janie. You know that.
Yeah. Just trying to
make you feel better.
I'll feel better when I
can get my dad's ribs in me.
You remember how to get there?
No, but I have my gps.
All right, well, I'm leaving
now, so I'll meet you there.
Okay, see ya.
Bye.
Honey!
- Hi, mom.
- Hi.
Sorry I didn't bring anything.
Oh, well, you
know your father.
He just wants everybody
to eat the ribs,
So the last thing we need
is another pasta salad.
My little girl.
Oh, how are you, dad?
My daughter just made
partner. How do you think I am?
Oh, it's nothing, really.
No, you bet it is.
We are so proud of you, honey.
And so is your friend.
But Jane isn't
here yet, is she?
No, you're gentleman friend.
Why are you so secretive
about this stuff all the time?
He's a lovely guy.
Yeah, he knows his way
around the grill too.
Mm-hm.
You spoke to him?
Well, yeah. He was
the first person here.
Yeah, we spoke to him for
a while. He's right in there.
Can you guys excuse
me for a minute?
Everything okay?
Yeah, I'm fine.
I just wanna talk to Chris,
And I didn't think
he'd get here so soon.
Yeah, go, go, go.
You never told me your
parents had a wine cellar.
Just what do you
think you're doing?
Attending a nice
family barbecue.
Well, I hope you enjoyed it,
'cause you're about
to be embarrassed.
In front of my parents.
Well, I'm not the one who's
gonna be embarrassed, Alice.
Think about it.
How did you find
out about this anyway?
- Your mom's social media page.
- We're friends now.
She just shared a recipe
for banana bread with me.
Chris, do not test me.
You're the one who's
getting so upset.
What did you think
was gonna happen?
You're just gonna show up here.
And pretend to be my boyfriend,
And I was just gonna accept it?
Well, you could either
choose to enjoy the day,
Or you could throw me out.
And have some explaining
to do to your family.
Or I can call the police.
And have them drag
your ass outta here.
For what?
Trespassing.
Well, you see, legally
it's not your house.
It's your parents'.
They'd have to do it.
And you're not sure that
they would, are you?
That's okay. Neither am I.
Hi, sweetheart.
- Hi. Hi.
- Hi.
What's going on?
Well, we are really not sure.
Chris...
Are you all right?
Um, yes. Just one second.
Okay.
What's going on?
Jane, right?
I've heard so much about you.
You haven't heard
anything about her,
'cause I haven't told
you anything about her!
What's going on?
This lunatic just
showed up here.
He's been talking to my parents.
How would you like me to
call the police right now?
Please, do we have to
go through this again?
What do you want, huh?
Just please tell me,
why are you doing this?
Well, I just want
us to enjoy ourselves.
I mean, look at it out there.
It's a perfect day for
a barbecue.
And what do you expect
me to tell my parents?
That we're dating?
Well, I don't want you
to put words in your mouth,
But you tell them whatever
you feel's appropriate.
If I agree to go out
with you, will you leave?
Well, can we eat first?
Look, I'm starving,
And the way your dad was
talking about those ribs,
I don't think I
could forgive myself.
If I'd at least try 'em.
No, you need to leave now.
If you leave too.
What?
If you leave too.
We leave together.
I'm not gonna have you
throw me outta here.
And refuse to see me again.
All right? What kind of
fool do you think I am?
Okay, let's go.
Okay.
Hope you're hungry.
We're gonna get going.
What? You literally
just got here, Alice.
I know. I'm so sorry.
The truth is, I just haven't
been feeling that great.
You do look a little pale.
Yeah, I've been fighting off
this bug the last few days.
Well, why don't
you just sit down,
And I'll bring you some tea.
Oh, no, mom. It's okay.
I don't want you to worry.
Well, worrying is our job.
No, it's fine, mom. Really.
I just shouldn't have come,
But I didn't wanna let you down.
Well, I have an idea.
If you feel better tomorrow
after you've rested,
Just come back,
we'll have leftovers.
Okay. I will.
And I'll make sure she
gets some rest, okay?
I wish we could stay longer,
But Susan, it was
so nice meeting you.
Another time, bill. I promise.
Maybe then you can
try my chicken wings.
Sweetheart, why don't you
let Chris drive you home?
You can leave your car here.
That is an
excellent idea, bill.
Alice, what do you think?
Um, I think that
would be more trouble.
Than it's really worth.
I guess I just needed rest today.
Instead of dad's ribs.
Well, I'll call you guys later.
Okay, well, feel
better, sweetheart.
All right.
Bye, Jane.
Nice to meet you, Chris.
You too.
Follow me, okay?
Okay.
What's the holdup?
I'm going right to
the police station.
I'll follow you.
You lied to me.
Go to hell, Chris.
What are you gonna do?
I'm gonna file a
restraining order against you,
And if you ever
come near me again,
The police are gonna
throw your ass in jail!
You're making
a mistake, Alice.
We'll see about that.
Loser.
So now what?
A judge has to approve
the restraining order.
How long does that take?
It depends, but I can
have it fast tracked.
Shouldn't take more than a day.
Oh, thank you so
much, detective.
Once it's signed, an
officer will serve him.
With the restraining order.
He will be ordered to stay
100 yards away from
you at all times.
And will be forbidden from
trying to contact you.
And what if he doesn't listen?
He'll go to jail.
I almost hope he doesn't.
I would love to see
that freak locked up.
He doesn't have
to be tried first?
Oh, he will be, but that
could take weeks, months.
During that time,
he'll be kept in jail.
That's the point of the order.
Look, I understand
why you are upset.
From what you've told me,
This man clearly is
an unstable person,
But even unstable people
can get the message.
After all, he doesn't
wanna go to jail.
So what do I do if
he tries to contact me.
Or if he comes near me?
You contact us right away.
You call the station at
that number I gave you.
Give the officer
your case number.
We'll come out immediately.
Thank you, detective.
Mm-hm.
Unfortunately, I've had to
deal with protective orders.
More times than I can count,
And in 99% of the cases,
after the person is served,
It acts as a wake up call.
What about the other 1%?
- Hang in there.
- Everything will be fine.
Okay.
Thanks for letting me stay over.
Of course.
What kind of friend would I be.
If I sent you out
there with that maniac?
Still.
And...
If I'm being honest, I
do feel a little guilty.
Guilty? About what?
I'm the one that initiated
contact on that app.
Jane, don't be silly.
There's no way you could have
known what was gonna happen.
Nobody could have.
They need screenings
for that app.
You're telling me.
Janie, do you think that
what detective graham said.
Was right?
You know, about the restraining
order scaring him off?
I think so.
She's been doing
this for a long time.
If they really thought
you were in danger,
They'd be watching
you around the clock.
Yeah, you're probably right.
That's the last thing I need,
is somebody else watching me.
Oh my god!
Hey.
What's wrong?
All my tires, slashed.
Chris.
Obviously.
Let's get to the office.
We can call the
police from there.
Detective amy graham.
Detective graham,
it's Alice miles.
Miss miles, I was just
about to reach out to you.
This morning, I
went outside and I...
Wait, what?
I said I was just about
to reach out to you.
Why?
Well, we attempted
to serve mr. Williams.
With the order of protection,
but we can't find him.
What do you mean
you can't find him?
His address on record,
The one on his license
and registration,
Well, he's no
longer living there.
But we spoke to his
roommate, mr. Jason Monroe.
He said Chris Williams
had moved out weeks ago,
Doesn't know where
he is going to.
Quite frankly, we're
unable to find him.
Through the usual channels.
So what now?
Oh, we will find
him eventually,
But I just thought
that you should know.
Thank you, detective.
Hm.
Alice?
Jason.
Hi. Thank you so
much for coming.
Yes, of course.
After what I've heard,
I mean, how could I not?
This just seems like a
very similar situation.
Of what happened between
him and the last girl.
Who's that?
Mercedes.
The girl he was obsessed with?
Do you know her last name?
No, I don't.
I remember her name because
it kind of stuck with me.
It's catchy.
And he had pictures of
her around his room.
So you never
saw her in person?
No, he said they
weren't together,
Which I thought
was kind of weird,
But I don't know,
I didn't wanna pry.
Hmm.
So you had no idea he
was doing any of this?
What, using my photo,
using my profile as his own?
No. I would've stopped
that immediately.
When was the last
time you saw Chris?
Wow. It's been over a month.
I mean, that's what I
told the police yesterday.
When they woke me up.
At literally the crack of dawn.
How well did you
really know him?
Apparently not that well.
Had just broken up with
my live-in girlfriend,
And I was going through a lot.
It was really tough for me,
And I just wanted
somebody to move in,
Not really to split costs,
But just for company
to be honest.
So he saw your posting?
Yeah, and he responded.
And I probably should
have vetted him better,
But he just seemed like
a normal, nice guy.
Until?
Until he wasn't.
I mean, I caught him a few times.
On my computer when I came home.
He said his had frozen.
And he just needed to
fire off a few emails.
Did you believe him?
I guess not really, but it
didn't seem like something.
To get too worked up about,
Considering all my
financial information.
Is password protected.
Also, sometimes
when I came home,
I would get this feeling
that he had been in my room,
Had been going through my stuff.
It wasn't crazy,
But it definitely was enough
for me to want him gone.
So did you ask him to leave?
I didn't have to.
I came home one day, he was
gone, his stuff was gone.
I tried calling his cell phone.
It had been disconnected.
Wow.
So did you contact
the authorities?
What for?
I mean, he didn't really
do anything illegal.
He didn't steal anything.
I mean, yeah, technically
he broke his lease early,
But I wanted him gone anyways.
You mentioned you had
something you wanted to show me?
Oh, yes.
This is a bill that came
from his psychiatrist.
I know I shouldn't
have opened it.
Sorry. But I was curious.
I didn't know what to
do with it anyways.
Apparently, Chris has
not paid his psychiatrist.
In quite a while.
Maybe you can get
in touch with her,
See if she knows anything.
I don't know if she's
allowed to tell you anything.
Why are you being so helpful?
My ex, before we started
dating, she had a stalker,
And she told me a
little bit about it.
No woman should ever
have to put up with that.
So if you need anything at
all, just let me know, okay?
Thank you.
Alice?
Ed wants to see you.
I'll get right to
the point, Alice.
When we made you partner,
We expected you to be
in for the long haul.
Of course. That's
what I expected too.
Then why the sudden change?
I'm not sure I understand.
Okay.
I have it on good authority.
That you've been talking
to other law firms,
Looking to leverage
a position here.
For a higher-paying
job at a larger firm.
Is there any truth to this?
Ed, that couldn't be
further from the truth.
I love working here.
If I didn't, I would've
left a long time ago.
I'm so glad to hear that.
Who were you just
meeting with then?
This is what
I'm talking about.
If I can't trust you
to be totally honest...
Where is this coming from?
It's Chris, isn't it?
You've been talking to Chris.
Where it came from
isn't important.
What's important is
if it is in fact true.
Of course it isn't true.
And let me tell you something
about Chris Williams.
I'm listening.
That man is unstable.
He's manipulative. He's a liar.
Ed, he was never my boyfriend.
Mm.
He's just some guy who
became obsessed with me,
Who tried to deceive you.
I can't come between you two.
You need to work out your
problems on your own.
I just need to know one thing,
and I need to know this,
If you are indeed
committed to the job,
Of course I am, as
committed as I've ever been.
Alice miles?
Mercedes?
Thank you so much
for meeting with me.
You have such a pretty name.
If it weren't so unique,
I probably wouldn't have
been able to find you online.
My father was
really into cars.
This is my boyfriend, Jake.
Nice to meet you.
Pleasure.
Look, I wasn't even
gonna return your call,
Much less come, but Jake,
He convinced me that it
was the right thing to do.
I understand, and
I don't blame you.
So, that...
I don't even know
what to call him.
He's been harassing you too?
Yeah. Yeah, I'm afraid so.
And you two met online?
Well, I met his
fake profile online.
It was a new app
called be my valentine.
That's what
happened to me too,
Except it was a different app.
He seemed to be so perfect.
He was smart and respectful.
Good looking.
I didn't even agree.
To meet up with him
right away, you know?
I'm trying to be safe.
The truth is, is meeting someone
online any more dangerous.
Than getting picked up
at a bar or a nightclub?
So he used a deep
fake with you too?
Although I didn't know it
was called that at the time.
After this all
happened, after we met,
Mercedes and I sat down
with a guy from my office,
Someone who works in it.
He explained how it's all done.
You don't need to be a rocket
scientist to pull it off.
So did you go out with him?
I mean, after you found out
that it wasn't really him.
Are you out of your mind?
But he kept calling you.
Not just calling me, he was
stalking me, following me!
He broke into my house the
day that Jake and I met.
Although, in some sick
way, I kind of owe him.
If it wasn't for him, Jake
and I wouldn't be together.
And this is the best
relationship I've ever had.
Mercedes, the police can't
seem to track him down.
Do you have any idea
where he might be?
I have no idea where
he is or even who he is.
Ready to go?
Oh, one more thing.
His former roommate, the
man whose identity he stole,
He mentioned that Chris had
been seeing a psychiatrist.
Do you know anything about this?
Nothing.
Although, I can
tell you one thing.
If there's anyone
who ever needed one,
It was Chris Williams.
So, why don't we begin.
By you telling me why
you are here, Alice?
Well, doctor, I'm afraid I'm
here under false pretenses.
It's about a patient of
yours. Chris Williams.
I'm sure you understand.
I can't discuss another
patient with you.
I understand all
too well, doctor.
I also know that,
If a patient is in imminent
danger to himself or to others,
That you're obligated to
report it to the authorities.
What are you, a lawyer?
Yes.
Who are you?
- My name is Alice miles.
- That much was the truth.
Chris has been harassing
me relentlessly,
And I've gone to the police,
but they can't even find him.
To deliver the
restraining order.
I was hoping you could
tell me where he might be.
I'm sorry. I haven't
seen Chris for months.
Is there any way that you
could get in touch with him?
I've tried, not just
to see how he's doing,
But also to collect payment.
He's been delinquent for months.
He hasn't returned
any of my calls.
He hasn't answered any
of my correspondence.
What's wrong with him?
Alice, I am not
allowed to divulge.
Any information
about my patient.
Dr. Taylor, please.
This man is stalking
me. I need your help.
Well, if you were my patient
Oh, for goodness sake!
If you were my patient,
I could tell you what
you were suffering from.
Oh.
Oh.
Thank you, doctor.
I'm glad that you were
able to see me today.
Of course.
Have you ever heard
of imposter syndrome?
No.
Well, if you were
suffering from it,
You would be under the delusion.
That nothing you could
do would be good enough.
So, self-doubt?
It goes deeper than that,
and it's way more insidious.
You see, these are
accomplished people.
You could be very intelligent.
You could be brilliant, in fact,
But deep down, you still...
You feel like a fraud.
And in some cases,
you might even resort.
To assuming
different identities.
Of whom?
Of anyone.
I mean, usually it's
somebody that appeals to you,
Somebody that might be
smarter or better looking.
Or more successful.
Are they...
Could I become dangerous?
Well, it depends
on the person.
I mean, imposter syndrome
isn't, in and of itself,
Predictive of
antisocial behavior.
And in my case?
In your case,
I think you did the right thing
by going to the authorities.
Thank you, doctor.
Of course.
Alice, be careful.
- No one is available.
- Please leave a message.
Hello, Chris. It's dr. Taylor.
I hope you're doing
well. I really do.
I have been trying to
get in touch with you.
It's imperative that we speak.
Can you please, please
call me as soon as you can?
Your next patient is here.
Hi, doctor.
Oh, Chris.
What are you doing here?
I thought you'd be
happier to see me,
Considering all the times
you're trying to contact me.
I am.
I just didn't expect
to see you here now.
Well, I would've
made an appointment,
But time is of the essence.
Tick, tock, tick, tock.
I had another appointment.
I know. I canceled it for you.
So what are you
doing here, Chris?
Feels like old times, huh?
There's a lot of people that
are worried about you, Chris.
Why do you keep
saying my name? Hm?
Is that some kind of
psychiatrist trick?
No, it's not a trick.
Well, I assume
you're referring.
To one lovely young lawyer.
Right? Well, it's okay.
You don't have to say anything.
I know she was just here.
Are you following her?
My relationships are no
longer any of your business!
You're my patient, so
I am concerned about you.
Concerned about me, huh?
What did you say to Alice miles?
Nothing.
You know that I'm not
allowed to say anything.
- You know what, doctor?
- I don't believe you.
I am telling you
the truth, Chris.
Hm. The truth.
The truth.
Shh.
Thank you.
You know what, doctor?
I feel better already.
But his own doctor
was afraid of him.
She literally told me that
the police should be involved.
I understand,
And I'm sure this doctor has
your best interest at heart,
But I told you, we're
unable to find him.
Unfortunately, there's
no law that says a person.
Must submit to
service of an order.
That's just ridiculous.
Look, he hasn't tried to
contact you recently, has he?
No.
Well then,
remember what I said.
Now, if he thinks you're
serious about legal action, he
Excuse me.
Detective graham.
Uh-huh.
I see.
I'll be right there.
What is that?
Chris Williams just
paid his doctor a visit.
It was him. It was
Chris Williams.
How can you be sure?
Security had already
pulled the cards.
In the security camera.
The person in the video.
Matched Chris Williams'
driver's license photo.
Oh my god.
Bastard didn't even
try to cover his face.
I told you, he is insane.
So he followed me here, which
means he could be anywhere.
Don't worry, don't worry.
I can assign more
officers to the case now.
You'll have somebody
in front of your home,
In front of your office 24/7.
Thank you so much.
You have any idea
where he might've gone?
How would I know? I...
Something he
might've mentioned?
Another job, another residence?
Everything he
told me was a lie.
I understand.
Detective graham,
how was she killed?
She was strangled.
I don't understand why you
don't just come stay with me.
Because I refuse
to live like that.
And besides, there's a
detective right outside,
Watching the house.
I'll be fine.
Come on. We'll eat
ice cream, watch bad tv.
I have to admit, that
does sound appealing.
See?
I'll be all right,
Janie. Really.
You gonna talk to ed tomorrow?
I have to.
I mean, I can't have
Chris contacting him,
Trying to ruin my reputation.
Besides, he has a right
to know what's going on.
It's a smart thing to do.
Yeah, smart. But
it's embarrassing.
Why?
Because you think the firm
wants our newest partner.
Involved in something like this?
It's not your fault.
You're not responsible
for some nut job.
Who's off his rocker.
Talk about victim blaming.
Yeah, rationally
I do know that.
But still, it's...
I'll come talk to ed
with you if you want.
Hang on a second. I'm
getting another call.
Let me get this. I think
it might be the police.
Call me back.
Okay.
Alice miles.
Hi, Alice.
The police are here.
Oh, I know, I
know. I can see 'em.
What do you want?
Why, I want you, silly.
Thought you'd know that by now.
Why did you kill dr. Taylor?
Alice, are you trying to
get me to incriminate myself?
You were on camera.
I was on camera visiting my
psychiatrist, nothing more.
I'm gonna get the detective.
Well, tell them not to
bother tracing the call.
It's a burner phone,
So once I hang up with
you, I'll lose it.
You can't hide forever, Chris.
Police know everything
about you now.
Well, if that were true,
I'd be in a cell
right now, wouldn't I?
It's him. It's Chris Williams.
Keep him on the phone.
We've got him on the phone.
Copy that.
Maybe we should get together.
Nice try, Alice.
Goodbye.
Damn it!
Can you trace the call?
It's not as easy as
you see in the movies.
Even if the restraining
order was delivered,
We'd still need a judge to
sign off on a new warrant.
Even though he's now
been accused of murder?
Even if we did
manage to trace it,
More than likely it
would not be much help.
I'm sure he did what he said
he'd do, too: Toss the phone.
What do you
expect me to do now?
Same as before.
There'll be a detective
outside your home,
Outside your office.
Nothing has changed.
- But he was here.
- He was watching me.
You don't know that.
He knew that there was a
police car outside of my house.
An educated guess,
Even if he does know
about police procedure.
Not even a guess.
No.
He's close.
I can feel him.
Alice, you're just
on edge, that's all.
I need to get away from here.
Where would you go?
I don't know,
maybe my parents.
They live like a
half hour from here.
Alice, Alice. I don't
think that's a good idea.
You'd be out of
our jurisdiction.
Now, I know it's safer
if you stay here.
Yeah, but I'll
feel safer there.
Well, I can't force you
to do anything, Alice,
But think about it, please.
Okay. I will.
Thank you, detective.
Hi, honey. You feeling better?
Can you come tonight?
Hi, mom. I'm okay.
I actually have a
favor to ask you.
Oh, sure.
I was wondering if
I could stay with you,
Maybe even for a few days.
Well, that's hardly a favor.
Is everything all right?
Don't worry. I'll
explain when I get there.
Great. Well, I'm gonna
have a surprise for you too.
Oh, okay.
Well, I'll see you soon.
Okay.
Love you. Bye.
All right, love you.
- Hello.
- Hi, mom.
- Sweetheart.
- Dad.
Alice.
He made us promise
not to say anything.
Surprise.
Do anything stupid, I'll
kill 'em both.
So, Alice, we found out.
We know why you were feeling
a little bit off yesterday.
Chris told us all about it.
Oh, he did?
He sure did.
I don't know why you're so
worried about telling us.
How old-fashioned.
Do you think your
parents are, sweetheart?
Yeah, we're thrilled that you
guys are moving in together.
You're happy, we're happy.
Oh, I'm happy.
I made your dad promise
to christen our new grill.
Chris told us.
Bought the spartan 400.
Honey, that is a
quality barbecue grill.
How about a drink?
I'm fine, honey.
Dad?
I'm good for now, sweetheart.
Oh, well, I'll make
you a fresh wine.
Chris, tell us how you found
this new place that you love.
Well, we got really lucky.
I have a friend who's a realtor,
And he knew what we
were looking for,
And when this place
came on the market,
He got us in to take a
look at it, and...
There you go.
When you guys get settled in,
You're gonna have
to let me buy you.
An enormous
housewarming present.
Susan, that is so
sweet. That's very kind of you.
Thank you so much.
Of course. Are you kidding?
And honey, what are you
gonna do with your house?
You gonna sell it, do you think?
I don't know. I guess
we'll have to see.
Alice...
Sit down.
Do you like baseball?
Hm?
I said, do you like baseball?
Yeah, yeah. I'm a
huge fan, big fan.
'Cause I love baseball.
Well, we should catch
a game sometime, huh?
All right, now stand
up you son of a bitch,
And put your hands
over your head.
Bill, that's not funny!
No, it's not.
What?
Uh...
Careful, bill.
What is happening, Alice?
It's okay, mom. Dad knows
exactly what he's doing.
Why don't you go ahead
and put that bat down, bill.
We both know you're not
gonna hit me with it.
You wanna find out?
Did he hurt you, sweetheart?
No. No, not me.
But he did kill someone, and
the police are looking for him.
What?
I know that she's
your daughter,
But you both can tell that
she's not well right now.
Shut up!
Susan, call the police.
Susan!
Hello?
We have an emergency
at our home.
We need the police here now.
We have an intruder
in our house.
Yes, hurry. Hurry.
They're coming. They're coming.
So now we just wait
for the police to
What is happening?
You all right?
Thank you so much.
What is going on, Alice?
It's okay. It's okay.
It's okay now.
Okay, the police are
coming, right? They're coming.
I should have known
something was up.
When he didn't have a car.
Did you ask him where it was?
Yeah, he said that he had
parked it down the street,
He had accidentally
gone to the wrong house.
Why didn't you tell
us anything about this.
When it was happening?
I didn't wanna worry you dad,
And I thought I had handled it.
You couldn't have
done anything anyway.
Well, we really want you to
stay here till they find him.
Yeah, I was
thinking about that.
I'm thinking I should
stay at janie's.
Now that he knows where I'm at.
I do still need to go to work,
and she does live closer.
Don't worry, I'll
be safe there too.
Okay, so I spoke
to detective graham,
And she filled me
in on everything.
Is she coming out here?
We'll be
coordinating with her,
But don't worry, we'll
pick him up soon.
He's never gonna give up.
He's already contacted
everyone that I know.
That might be a good thing.
You told me that your parents
thought you two were dating,
And now the truth is out there.
He's not gonna be able
to surprise anyone.
And once anyone recognizes him,
They know to call the police.
I just don't
understand. Why me?
I may be new to
this, miss miles,
But one thing I've already
learned is it's a fool's errand.
To try to understand
a psychopath.
Hey, Janie, it's me.
Just now leaving my parents.
Just absolute craziness.
I'll tell you about
it when I get there.
I don't appreciate
being stood up.
You lied to me.
He would stalk me, follow me!
Do anything stupid,
I'll kill 'em both.
Welcome, Alice.
Did you have a nice nap?
Janie!
Stay away from me.
All I ever wanted to
do was get close to you.
That's the mistake
all those cops made.
I didn't want to leave. I
just wanted to be near you.
I'll do whatever
you want, okay?
Just please, please
don't hurt Janie.
Janie?
Oh, don't worry.
I haven't heard her.
Gave her quite as scare,
that's for sure, huh?
As long as you don't try
anything, she'll be perfectly fine.
Chris, I don't understand.
Why me? Why?
Why you?
Why not you?
Why are you selling
yourself so short?
You have so many
wonderful qualities.
You don't even know me.
From the very first time that
we met, it wasn't even real.
I just wanted a date
for valentine's day.
Chris, listen to me, okay?
If you let Janie go,
I promise you I'll get you
the help that you need.
Well, you see, dr. Taylor,
She's a little busy for
the foreseeable future.
No, dr. Taylor
didn't understand you.
I do.
No, you don't.
Nobody understands me.
Yes, I do.
I'll prove it to you, okay?
I'll leave with you.
Yeah, we'll go together.
I don't believe you.
Please, Chris.
Please.
Please don't hurt
Janie, okay? Please.
That's enough.
Pepper spray. Back pocket.
I said that's enough!
My hand.
- My hand. Untie me.
- Okay.
Oh.
He's gone.
He won't get far. I have officers
combing the neighborhood.
Are you okay?
Fine, now.
It's finally over.
For both of us.
Yeah, Chris Williams,
Or whatever he wants
to call himself,
He won't be able to
hurt anyone ever again.
Sorry I'm late.
Happy valentine's day.
Oh my god. Thank you.
You don't look
like your profile.