The Addiction of Hope (2025) Movie Script
Hello, I'm Doctor Gaines.
So tell me what's going on.
Hello, I'm doctor Gaines.
So tell me what's going on.
Do you mind stepping outside
so I can talk to your wife alone?
Would you mind stepping outside
so I can talk to your wife alone?
No, no, of course I understand.
So tell me what's going on.
[Stuttering]
And the tremors.
When did the tremors start?
So tell me, when did the tremors start?
When did the tremors start?
And when did the tremor start?
[Soft piano music]
She'll be perfect.
Yeah. And
she's still young enough to be sexy.
Yeah. Okay, I'll call her agent.
Ready?
Uh, yeah.
Okay.
Hello, I'm doctor Gaines.
Nice to meet you.
Would you mind stepping outside?
I'd like to speak to your wife.
Uh, no.
I want my husband to stay.
Oh, no.
No. Of course.
So tell me what's going on.
That's great.
Thank you.
Huh?
Very good.
What about the tremors?
The tremors?
What about.
When did the tremor start?
You know the rest of the scene.
We're good.
Thanks for zooming in.
[Soft piano music]
[Music continues]
May I help you?
Wow.
Seriously? I'm Joanne Stock.
I'm a client.
I'm so sorry.
Will you tell Roger I'm here?
Let me see if he's in.
I can hear him.
Joanne Stock to see you.
Mhm.
Okay. He's not in.
Gotcha. Ha ha.
That's called a reversal of expectations.
Learned that in my writing class.
You can go in.
It's okay.
There she is.
Where did you find him?
It's Hollywood, Joe models,
actors, writers, whatever.
It's like Tumbleweed in Texas.
Maybe that explains why it
feels like a ghost town in here.
Nobody's going to work since the pandemic.
How'd it go?
They cast the role before
I even open up my mouth.
I know it's frustrating.
There's just not a lot of stuff
for women of a certain age.
What age is that?
Fossil six.
Fossil seven.
The right part comes along.
Shit happens.
Look at Fyvush Finkel,
first series regular at 70.
He won an Emmy at 72.
That's not very helpful.
It's just dead right now.
Everything is younger.
Oh, come on.
Older people can murder younger people.
Trust me.
I've thought about it.
Joe.
Older people can teach younger people.
They can operate on them.
Prosecute, defend.
Younger people still have moms, don't they?
I mean, they're not spawned out
of some type of petri dish, right?
I mean, I could have a kid, Roger.
I could be a mother.
Do you want to have a second heart attack?
Relax. I'm just sucking out the nicotine.
Do you think it's over?
I mean, do you think I'm done?
Don't go there.
It's too late.
Hey,
Lenny.
I'm here.
Thought I lost you.
What's up?
Not much.
The boy's fighting again.
No, no.
Well, yeah.
I don't know.
They're brothers.
Will's been really down, and
Jake has no patience for anything.
Especially his brother.
They'll be fine, honey.
Yeah, said the woman with no kids.
I had a plan.
Hey. Come visit.
We really miss you.
We'd love to see you.
Uh. I vaguely remember my last visit.
I was told you're not my
mother, so stay out of this, okay?
That was so long ago.
Well, you can't hide from us forever.
I'm not hiding.
You're the one who moved all
the way to the ass end of nowhere.
Well, so.
So what?
You're never going to visit again?
I didn't say that.
It's just,
you know, I've got a
lot going on, and I just, I.
There's a lot on my plate.
Lenny.
What?
Nothing, nothing.
I'm just.
I'm just tired.
You know?
Listen, um, why don't I talk it
over with my agent and move
some stuff around?
But I'm not making any promises.
No, of course not.
No,
but we'd love to see you.
Okay.
Bye bye.
[Soft piano music]
God.
Yes.
Morning. Silver Lake Termite.
Yeah sorry, I'm ten minutes early.
Hold on.
I'll be right there.
Not a problem.
Whatever.
You hear that?
Kind of like a hollow sound.
You might have some damage.
You said you saw droppings.
Uh, yeah.
Over here.
Yep. You got termites?
Perfect. How much is that going to cost?
Well, I'm going to need to look
around and see how bad it is.
It should take me about an hour.
Yay!
So how bad is it?
Well, I've seen worse.
Oh. That's good.
I've also seen better.
The good news is that
you're catching it early.
We can put you on the schedule ASAP.
All the information's
right here on the flyer.
You can't be here for three days.
But honestly, I'd make
it four just to be safe.
What? Where am I
supposed to go for four days?
Oh, I don't know.
Hotel. Uh, stay with your kids, maybe.
I have no kids.
Oh, really?
Oh, yes, really.
Can I ask you a question?
Aren't you that actress
from the coach's daughter.
Mhm. I knew it.
Yeah I used to watch that show.
Can I get a selfie.
Mhm. So whatever happened to you.
Apparently I died.
Listen I don't want to be
rude but I got to get going.
Oh. What about the termite.
I'll call the office.
[Soft piano music]
At least you made a living at it.
Made.
I can't afford this.
That's why I started
taking my pension early.
What gets you up in the morning?
Is this a trick question?
Uh, reruns of Soul Train and a box of wine.
Look, I've known you
for, what, like, 30 years?
I don't think I've ever seen you be happy.
Oh, come on, Cherise.
What about the trip to Hawaii?
I won when we were in Vegas.
You seemed more
embarrassed by that than happy.
Oh. Come on.
How about that time I booked
that spokesperson gig for the
credit card?
Oh.
The first thing out of your mouth.
Oh, it's just a commercial.
Do you know how many actors
would kill for just a commercial?
Yeah, actors who've
never been on a TV show.
I mean, I'm sorry.
There is a difference.
I mean, people used to call me
every day to talk about the episodes.
Did your mother.
Did she?
Oh, please don't analyze me.
Okay?
Just think about it.
All right.
My mother was a miserable alcoholic.
Who never said anything nice to you.
She would say things like,
you're never going to make it.
Yes. She would say,
you're never going to make it.
But she never said that to Lenny.
Linney.
Maybe it's because she
actually gave birth to Linney.
Wow.
Oh.
You're really 100% in
that therapy, aren't you?
Maybe.
Maybe my mother was jealous.
Jealous of what?
Of me.
Because I was strong.
I didn't need anyone to make me happy.
Because you're so happy on your own.
Joanne.
Oh, Kevin.
You remember me?
Roger wanted to fire you until
I pleaded with him, you know.
To let you stay until you screw up again.
Then I told him he should fire your ass.
And that's what they consider a plot twist.
Something I learned in my
30 plus years in this business.
[Laughter]
You got me.
Okay, that was good.
That's fair.
Uh, I guess we could consider this a theme.
If you keep it up.
You can consider it conflict.
Noted.
Where is he?
He's finishing up a meeting.
But is he.
Oh, but he is.
Thank you so much.
Oh my God.
Joanne Stock.
I grew up watching reruns of
you in The Coach's Daughter.
My grandma's gonna flip
when I tell her that I met you.
Oh, actually, I.
I better jet.
It's a busy day.
You get it.
Bye, Skyler.
Bye.
You're not competing with her, Joe.
She's 30.
You know, it's funny.
I came here to see how you
felt about me leaving town for a
couple of days.
You know, if I miss anything.
But it looks like you've got that covered.
Oh. Come on.
There's a natural progression
of things in life, Joe.
You and I are progressing naturally.
Is that what this is?
Yes.
We should be grateful.
There's no sin in getting older.
Mm.
Take a break.
I'll call if something comes up.
I was so fun.
I caught it every Tuesday night.
I just loved your show.
Thanks again for the autograph.
All right, bye.
Have a good visit.
Thank you.
Bye.
Three years.
I think we're still in denial.
Will is for sure.
Melanie. You know, it's
just going to take time.
Hey, you ever hear from Curtis?
Mm, no.
It's been years.
I heard he got remarried.
Oh. Found someone he could control.
Probably,
but I get it, you know?
I mean, we all change.
I'm certainly not the
same person I used to be.
Who is?
[Soft music]
House looks great.
Is that a new roof?
Yeah. Metal.
Aaron said it would outlive both of us.
I gotta pee.
Okay. Very nice.
Oh, boy.
Oh boy. Okay.
What's all this?
Oh, I've been reading.
About mushrooms.
They're magical Joe.
It's not, not like in the 70s.
So what are they supposed to do?
Make your skin softer and shinier.
Do they take away wrinkles?
Yes.
And you believe that?
I do.
I do.
I think they might even help with cancer.
Wow. Okay.
Well, then they are magical.
Um.
I was going to tell you, but.
I had a breast biopsy, and,
um, there's a low grade spot.
Uh, so there.
The Bonnie, and it's surprises.
Um, I'm going to be okay.
Even the doctor is willing to wait and see.
Are you taking mushrooms
while you're waiting?
When did you know about this?
Um, it's been about three
months, but I just had another.
MRI, and I'm doing everything.
Why didn't you tell me?
Oh, because I don't know.
Because I know how you get.
I'm just.
I'm I'm.
I'm sorry.
They took me off my hormone
therapy, and I'm just an
emotional mess.
Plus, half the time I feel
like I'm living on the sun.
I don't know how you do it.
Amazon, and they use the same
batteries as used for your vibrator.
As if.
Oh.
Now, if it could only help me shit.
Well, it's not going to do that.
Oh.
I think that's Jake.
Come on, let's go see grandma.
Uh, have you told the kids yet?
Oh.
Uh, no, I will, but but just act normal.
Nobody knows yet.
What?
Joe, please.
This is why I didn't tell you.
Hi, honey.
Uh.
Hey. You made it.
Oh.
Oh, easy, big boy.
Handle with care.
Oh! Get out!
Sexy lady.
Right.
Leah, say hi to your Auntie Joe.
Oh, look how pretty you are.
Um, mom, I need you to
watch Leah for a couple hours.
I'm heading down to
Chuckanut to install these gates.
And then I got to head back to the shop.
Honey, your aunt just got here.
Mom. Come on.
It's not like you're going anywhere.
- Yeah but your aunt.
- Lynnie.
Don't stress it.
Next time, ask.
Okay. Thank you, Mom.
Leah, I'll see you later.
Shabam.
I'll see ya.
Oh, Auntie Jo, say hi to Chris.
He's always wanted to meet a movie star.
Oh.
Hey, Chris.
Hi. Uh, I saw you in that
commercial for the fluvoxamine.
I remember because I take that one, too.
It makes me constipated,
but I'm, uh, working it out.
Get it?
I'm working it out.
Um, yeah.
I really look like you had allergies.
Um, welcome to the Pacific Northwest.
A little different than LA, huh?
Oh, yeah.
More Subarus and a lot colder.
Oh, yeah.
It is colder out here.
Yeah. Well, uh, yeah, it's it's.
I like it out here.
I've been here for a while.
We'll see you later, Auntie Joe.
Good to meet you.
All right.
All right.
What's wrong with you?
You say you're constipated.
What is that about?
I'm so glad you're here.
No no no no no, you don't need to stop.
Oh. It's fine.
Don't want to overdo it.
Wow.
Renee, you've been busy.
I guess.
Not really.
I don't know.
It's an outlet.
Beats thinking about who'd be
here for the kids if something happens.
Want some tea?
Sure. Where's Leah?
Oh, she'll be asleep for another hour.
Trust me, grandma knows.
Oh, grandma.
We're old.
Better than the alternative.
[Soft music]
Funny that we both ended
up on the West Coast.
We got as far away as we could get.
I guess you, uh, went with isolation.
And what'd you go with?
Adulation?
Um.
I don't know.
Actor. Abandoned by two mothers.
Oh, mom didn't abandon you?
Our mom anyway.
Well, maybe you got it right.
The isolation part.
You're going to, uh,
talk to your doctor, right?
I will.
No, I mean, you're gonna
listen to what she has to say.
Please don't be like everybody else.
Don't tell me what's good for
me or bad for me or right for
me or wrong for me.
Really? I'm just so sick of
people telling me I'm crazy
because I believe in all possibilities.
Yeah. But mushrooms.
I mean, just try living in reality.
Thanks, mom.
You know, don't do that.
Have you read a lot
about alternative medicine?
About functional medicine?
Listen, I know.
Because I have.
I'm sure.
But I'm worried that you're.
Oh, stop.
I'm. Do you think I'm not worried?
I go to bed worrying.
I wake up worrying.
What's going to happen next?
Am I going to die?
Are they going to lop off my
boobs so I can live another
year and then die?
Will I ever see my granddaughter grow up?
Will my sons be okay?
Will they ever get along?
Who's going to be there
for them when I'm gone?
I'm so tired of worrying.
I'm so tired of being tired.
Okay. Is that enough reality for you?
It was a fucked up thing to say.
God, damn it.
I love that photo.
Yeah.
Do you remember what year this is?
Um.
Dad was already gone, so, like 2005?
Yeah.
Wow.
She looks so happy.
Must have had a glass of wine.
Probably a box.
Oh.
Jake will be here soon.
Oh.
Yeah.
Jake's a hard worker.
Mom would have approved.
Yeah.
But she'd never let him know it.
Mm.
I wish she could have been better with you.
I mean, I know it was okay in
the end, but it took so long to
get there.
Yeah, it was a lot easier when
she couldn't remember who I was.
In the hospital.
Towards the end,
she thought I was one of her nurses.
Remember?
She told me she had two daughters.
I know a good one and an adopted one.
But she didn't know what she was saying.
Yeah.
- Oh.
- Hey, hey.
A working man in the house.
That's me.
Leah.
Oh, she's in the studio watching TV.
Oh.
Honey. Want to stay for dinner?
Your brother's coming.
Mom. Don't start.
Every time Will comes for dinner.
You know how it is.
Mm.
- Just like family.
- Joe.
You know, I know a guy who
knows a guy who can get you a gun.
Joe.
Yeah, bro.
Hook it up, Jake.
Uh, you think you'd be
happier if Will were gone?
Do you?
Jesus Aunt Joe.
I don't want him dead.
I just want him to grow up a little.
Hey.
He's figuring it out.
Yeah, we're all figuring it out.
He builds, like, 1 or 2 bikes
a year, and he thinks he's
working his ass off.
Jake, that's not true.
It is true, mom.
You're always defending him.
Lady, don't play favorites.
Don't do that.
Well.
Maybe you two could work together.
Yeah, right.
It's different with brothers.
He's too busy with shit like Burning Man.
Got a post for the Insta.
You sound a little bitter.
I'm not bitter.
I get it.
You got a job, a kid,
no time.
Will's life looks fun,
but we all make choices.
Yeah, well, you ought to know, Aunt Jo.
Like you say, your time has
come or your time is gone.
Thanks for watching Leah, Mom.
Leah. Sweet pea.
Time to go.
What the hell, Joe?
These are some tomatoes.
Mm. They're from the backyard.
Raccoon kept eating my
tomatoes, so I moved it inside.
But they're just dying.
Tough to grow tomatoes inside.
They need air.
Every time I hear that
motorcycle roll up, I feel relieved.
Act normal.
God, there's more acting here than in LA.
Miss me?
Hey, Auntie Joe, what up?
I'm gracing us with your
presence all the way from Los Angeles.
- Oh sweetie.
- I'm glad to see you.
Hi, honey.
What's going on?
What?
Uh.
Hey, you want a drink?
Uh, no.
I'm good.
Back in the wagon again.
Oh, cool.
All right.
Uh, Jake told me that you went
to Burning Man again, but you
still have some sand in your ears?
Yeah. Everywhere.
Dude.
I don't want to hear about that.
How'd it go?
Yeah. It was.
It was sweet.
You know, kind of the usual thing.
Uh,
a lot of crazy shit.
A lot of people trying to
figure themselves out, so.
So if you could get a bike
to Keanu or George Clooney.
Pink. She rides right.
So then when people see
them on a Will Turner bike, then
suddenly you just blow up.
That would be huge, dude.
I mean, do you know any of
them or any celebs that ride?
Um, you know, I'm going
to have to think about that.
I get it.
No worries.
Okay, cool.
Is mom okay?
Okay?
I will.
Goodbye.
[Crying]
They might have seen something else.
They want me to come in for more imaging.
And then
they want me to meet
with the surgeon in case.
What am I going to tell the kids?
It's barely three years since Aaron died.
Don't leave Joe.
This is going to sound worse than it is.
It's not.
I went to the doctor for my mammogram.
And they saw something.
I knew it.
A tiny spot, zero grade, they said.
Honey, that means that it's.
It is.
It's so early.
They're just going to do more.
Your brother thought you'd be here.
She's going to be okay.
How do you know?
My dad was supposed to be okay.
Honey, that was different.
Why?
Well, because he killed himself.
Because he was crazy.
Your father wasn't crazy.
The world was too much for him.
My mom can't die.
Auntie.
She can't.
I know.
I'm not ready for that.
None of us are.
But she's tough.
I mean, she gave birth to you
with your size ten head in the
living room with a midwife and no drugs.
Right.
You know,
your mom used to say that you
were cursed by the sign of the crab.
Tough on the outside,
but soft on the inside.
Her and her astrology.
You're a lot like her.
And your dad.
You're a true artist.
You just.
Seem to feel things more deeply.
It just hurts so much,
you know?
Yeah.
It's messed up.
Yeah.
I can build anything.
I can fix anything.
But I can't fix my mom.
It's okay.
Let it.
Out. It's okay.
Please. Not again.
Please.
It's okay.
Let's go home.
Let's go home.
But you said the spot was
unchanged and might even be
smaller than it was before.
Well, that's why I think we
could treat with lumpectomy and
radiation and have great results.
So you lied to me.
I didn't lie.
We took a wait and see approach
with your case and allowed you
to try alternative medicines.
Allowed me?
Oh. How kind.
Sorry. That's completely the wrong word.
We respect your choice
to try different things.
So what changed?
Well.
Fortunately nothing.
This MRI and your imaging from
three months ago are remarkably
the same.
In fact, I'd like to know more
about your supplement regimen.
But this is a real chance
to get ahead of your cancer.
And if I do nothing now?
Well, that,
that wouldn't be my recommendation.
But it's your decision.
I just want you to have the
best chance that medicine can
provide Western medicine.
Since nothing's changed, I'd
like to wait three more months.
Knock, knock.
David.
Hey, am I interrupting?
I just came by to see how it went.
Oh. I'm fine.
Hey, want to sit?
This is my sister, Jo.
The actress from California.
Huh? Yeah.
Lennie talks about you all the time.
Uh oh.
Only the good stuff.
David teaches Leah's art class.
We love David.
So.
Oh.
You know, just navigating the waters.
Want some tea?
Here, I'll get it.
No, no no, no.
You sit.
Talk to David.
Is she okay?
It's hard to tell.
Be better.
She filled you in.
Mhm. So you.
Um, are an art teacher?
Yep.
How'd you get into that?
Love art. Love kids.
Well, then you made the right choice.
I think it's nice to to do what you love.
You don't love being an actor?
I do when I'm working, but I
just feel like I'm fading away
into oblivion.
If you don't have a million
followers, you're just not legit.
Mm. Yeah.
Social media, death of civilization.
I actually thought that I'd be
making a living with my camera.
What happened?
It just seemed like a big pipe dream.
As opposed to the
sure thing that acting is.
Nice.
So teaching kids that
is a big responsibility.
Maybe.
But I think kids learn more from
who you are than what you teach.
Mm.
Right. Good luck.
Hey. Thanks, buddy.
Cheers.
What's the chicken for?
It's for the crabs.
You feed the crabs chickien?
If you want to trap something,
you got to make it tempting.
You sure you don't want to come?
Oh, I'm sure I would just get sick.
And you know how black
people feel about boats, so.
No. This is good for you.
You go.
Okay, everyone get together.
Careful. One. Two. Three.
[Soft music]
We got some.
Yeah.
Yes. All right.
Look at this guy.
Wow.
Six and a quarter.
It's a keeper, boys.
That's a keeper.
Definitely over the limit.
You know.
Toss her in the bucket.
Just put it in the bucket.
All right.
This one's feisty.
Oh. Holding on for dear life.
[Soft music]
Good job.
Okay hold on.
I know.
I know, you know, I'm just reminding you.
What's up?
Jake's a good dad.
Yeah. Pretty much.
He has his fucked up moments.
Yeah, well, it runs in the family.
You would have been a good mom.
I don't know.
Pretty tough
putting a stamp on another human being.
Well, you don't stamp them.
You. You guide them.
Yeah, I think about it sometimes.
Making a contribution to the world.
You know.
That's not exactly how I
would describe having kids.
You know what I'm saying?
It's passing down knowledge.
Making a difference in someone else's life.
Yeah. You make a difference
by loving them unconditionally.
That's how it works.
Here's to my sister in combat.
I am armor and sword to you.
And comrade.
And always your comrade.
What?
Uh, just, uh, one of our
favorite comic books.
When we were growing up.
We had a routine.
Yeah.
Isn't it funny?
The things we remember.
That comic books are
probably worth a fortune now.
Yeah, well, your grandma trashed them.
What? Why?
She thought it was a waste of time.
She thought I should
learn how to type instead.
Yeah.
Mom wasn't exactly marching
for the women's movement.
Jeez.
Oh, I gotta check on dinner.
Mom, relax.
We're good.
Sweetie. Come, let's make cookies.
Ah,
she worries about everything these days.
Yeah, well.
Do you blame her?
You're doing a real good job with Leah.
With everything.
Oh.
No.
Thank you, I appreciate it.
I think it's important you hear that?
Mom likes it when you visit.
What about you?
Ah, I don't know.
Maybe I could get used to it.
No, it's a good start.
Yeah. Well, sorry.
I think we would have caught the big one.
The big kahuna.
Hey.
Hey, David.
Hey.
Need any help?
Oh no. I'm good.
- Good. Lynnie inside?
- Yeah.
All right.
See you in a minute.
Someone's got a crush.
What?
Oh, come on now.
Oh. Come on what?
You see what I'm seeing, right?
Oh, yeah.
- Lady boner.
- Lady boner.
Oh.
Auntie Joe, it's a grade A lady boner.
You know it, I know it, we all know it.
I want to get a picture of you guys.
Do we have to?
Stand with him.
Come on, Jake.
Fine.
Uh.
- Come on over here.
- Nice.
Nice.
Cheese.
Oh, sorry.
New phone. Who dis?
Very funny.
So, FYI, I got a call about
you from this NBC pilot.
I submitted you on.
A network pilot.
Really?
An aging hit man pulled out of
retirement back into the family
against his will.
A hit man.
His will.
Could be a man or a woman.
Or open to ethnicity, blah, blah bullshit.
They have no clue.
Look, Joe, I'm working on it.
I'll know by the end of the
day if it's going to happen.
But if they want to see you.
I'm not going to hold my breath.
But you know where to find me.
Thanks, Roger.
You're welcome.
[Calm music]
Have you heard about summer snow
When it falls on you
Your blood runs cold
But don't you sweat your pretty skin
Cause it melts away
For it sinks in
And you dream about this very night
When the moon rolls down the summer sky
Could it be the morning of the spring
When the sea runs
dry we'll start to sing
Have you heard
from the sky all about it
Down the river at high tide
Flows around it
Through the whispers of pines
I hear them saying
The more you love, the more you live
Have you heard from the sky
All about it
Through the whispers of pines
I hear them saying
The more you love, the more you live
This is truly a little slice of heaven.
Maybe you should throttle it back a bit.
What? Come on.
You're always known as
the last one to leave a party.
What does that mean?
Mm.
Oh, no.
Stop stop.
Stop.
Stop.
It means that you were known to have fun.
What is that a bad thing?
You should try it sometime.
Be happy.
Who says we have the right to be happy?
Oh, Lord.
Okay, right.
Okay, mom.
Oh, God.
Why do you do that?
Why do you do that?
All right.
Look, look, this is gonna
be a sibling smack down.
Maybe I'll leave a little early.
David. No, no. You stay.
I'm pooped.
I'm going to bed.
Oh, no, no, no.
I'm so sorry.
I'm so sorry.
It was release drinking.
Maybe you should get a little sleep.
Yeah.
Okay.
Goodnight David.
Goodnight Lynnie. Thanks for dinner.
You bet.
Well, I just went from not
liking you very much, to thinking
okay, maybe she's all right.
Maybe.
Jury's out.
Yeah. Uh, maybe by your next
visit, I'll have a better opinion.
Oh.
Uh, that's why you're a teacher.
Release drinking?
I don't know, but I'm not drunk.
Just mean.
Ouch.
That's what my ex-husband used to say.
He used to say I
sounded angry all the time.
Why are you so angry?
Uh uh uh.
You see?
No no no no.
That's that's giving away the ending.
You must buy the book.
Well, Amazon lets you, uh, read
a chapter before you buy the book.
Well, I guess it was
just so angry because I,
got caught
by the bait,
and I was trapped, and I couldn't get out.
Just like those crabs today.
So stop being so crabby.
Mm. You know, move
forwards instead of sideways.
It's not that easy.
Something bothers you?
You change it.
Unless you're scared.
Scared?
Oh, my God, we're all scared.
Aren't we all scared?
I mean, because ultimately,
we're all just so fucking fragile.
That's the gift of life.
Some gift?
No, it is. It is.
Because when you
realize that everything ends,
you find ways to.
You make ways to live a full life.
That's why you're a teacher.
You should come to my class,
teach your kids about acting.
Not qualified to do that anymore.
All right. How about photography, cameras?
Too much of a commitment.
Oh, you're afraid of commitment?
Terrified.
Why?
Because someone really smart
once told me everything ends.
But he also said.
What?
That's when you make ways
and live a full life.
I gotta go.
School night.
Oh.
Um.
Yeah.
So.
Yeah. Give me a call
when you're back in town.
I got a classroom of curious students.
Good night Joe.
Goodnight.
[Soft music]
- Hey.
- Hey.
I'm an asshole.
Yep.
I don't know what to say.
Nothing.
Are you mad at me?
I don't have the energy to be mad, Joe.
Um, so I got a text
from my agent last night.
They want me to audition for this thing.
Oh.
That's good right?
It's probably a waste of time.
Good attitude.
No, I mean, they don't know what they want.
They're looking at men,
women, open to ethnicity.
I mean, it's all bullshit.
It's just for them to feel
good about themselves.
I mean, look, see how diverse we are.
Anyway, um, I've got to get
back this morning, so I changed
my flight.
But I can come back soon, Lenny.
I mean, when you find out
what's happening, if you need me.
I don't need you.
I've got the boys.
And David's been great.
You two seem to hit it off.
David?
Yeah. No, he's very nice.
I'm just worried about you.
Are you going to be okay?
Look, Joe, I can't make
you feel better about leaving.
Just do what you have to do.
Can I ask you something?
Why do you keep doing it if you don't care?
Doing what?
Acting.
I don't know.
It's been my job for over 30 years.
The sick thing is, the only
thing I have to show for it is
a house in Silver Lake
and a old TV show poster.
- That's a little dramatic.
- Is it?
I have a shitty career.
I don't have a husband.
I don't have kids.
I don't have a family.
I mean, should I just ignore all of that?
Do what works for you.
You always have.
What's that supposed to mean?
Well, it's like when mom
and Dad were dying.
Oh, here we go.
I dropped everything and went to New York.
You didn't have a real job.
Like you did.
Hey, I was auditioning for stuff.
I was booking things.
Oh, right.
Fluvoxamine, a career maker.
Well, it was a money maker that
stopped me from sponging off of mom.
Unlike you.
She was helping me.
Well, she was ignoring me.
So that's why you took it out on her?
Maybe a little payback for all
the years she was shitty to you.
She treated you like crap.
It was unfair.
Yeah, well, we all make our choices.
We do?
Maybe you should think about
what you're doing and why.
You should do the same thing.
I got a pack.
[Sad music]
Thanks for coming in.
We're trying to zoom less
and room more these days.
Ready to go?
Okay.
Boss said we could count on you.
And I'm here.
Shit. I'm sorry.
That's wrong.
I know that's wrong.
Um. And here I am.
It's okay.
It doesn't need to be word perfect.
Boss said we could count on you.
And I'm here.
At least your brain still works.
What's that supposed to mean?
Relax, grandma.
30 fucking years of
experience means nothing.
Maybe it just means you've
passed your expiration date.
Listen, jackass, if this hadn't
been a personal ask from the
top, I'd be sitting on a beach in Hawaii.
Okay, I can stop you there.
I'm surprised we've never met before.
Sorry. We're behind the gun.
We're got a room full of
actors, directors flying in.
It's good.
You're good to go.
Roger?
You sound surprised.
Didn't it go well?
She seemed more concerned
about clearing the room than finding
the right actor.
I barely got started before she stopped me.
Maybe she stopped you
because she got what she wanted.
It doesn't work that way.
Apparently it does.
They're calling you back
to work with the director.
Seriously?
She said she felt your
connection to the material.
See, I told you the
right thing comes along.
Fiveish Finkel.
It's the real deal, Joe.
Can I confirm you?
Okay.
I'll let you know.
Hey.
Am I interrupting?
No no no no no.
What's up?
How you feel?
I feel fine.
Uh, but the doctor called.
She's pretty sure there's
something there now.
Well, you know, I'm.
I'm sure it's nothing, Lynnie.
I mean, technology has advanced so far.
I mean, they're seeing things
now that they've never seen before.
Yeah. I feel like they're
trying to see something.
Like it's just about money.
I don't want to burn
through our savings on.
Your health.
No. I'd like to help the kids.
Oh.
These kids are grown men.
You've got to stop worrying.
You'll never understand.
That's why you live alone in LA.
And that's why you never had kids.
And that's why
you'll never understand what it
is to love somebody more than
you love yourself.
You're just too selfish.
It's called survival.
Anything else?
Oh fuck off, Joe.
Can you at least promise
me you're going to tell
me what the doctor says?
You really got in there.
Almost keeps me sane.
Yeah. Art's like therapy.
You know, I think we're
happiest when we're most focused.
There's no room for distraction.
Oh.
If only.
You know.
What?
Nothing. I just keep thinking that.
Just say it, David.
I just wonder if the safest
thing to do is to be proactive
and get out in front of the cancer.
Did my sister put you up to this?
That's a little insulting.
Insulting? Is your friend
not supporting you?
Well, tell me I'm wrong.
I just did.
You don't want my
opinion. Don't ask for it.
Mhm.
No no no no, don't do that.
Don't blow me off.
I'm trying to support you.
Then do it.
Sometimes you make it so hard.
Because you are so committed to
your way that you make everyone
else the enemy.
Your husband was my best friend.
And I promised him that
I would look out for you.
I am not the enemy.
It's okay.
Yeah. You okay?
Yeah.
Ouch.
All right.
Cherise, you're my friend and a therapist.
Just tell me what to do.
Joe, I can't tell you what to do.
No one could ever tell you what to do.
But look, you're the only one
who knows what you want.
But I don't.
Ooh, I do.
Oh, no no no.
He is happily married with
three kids, two dogs and a cat.
Yo, Eric.
You drive.
Get away from you.
Yeah. You know, it's
just one of those days.
I know, been there, done that.
Yeah. Anyway, let me go find my ball.
And if I.
If I find a sandwich along
the way, I'll bring it back to you.
Okay? Why you do me like that?
- Take care.
- All right.
I'll see you later.
Just how happy in that marriage is he?
That's what I want to know.
Please focus.
I need your help.
Okay.
I once had a golf pro tell
me that with the perfect swing,
you should lead with your chest.
And then your head should follow.
And that helps me how?
Come on, Joe, just
let your head follow your heart.
You know, it was a metaphor.
All right, make a list.
Pros and cons.
Um, should you keep chasing
this dream or should you retire?
Travel. Take pictures.
It doesn't make any difference.
Whatever you choose.
It's not going to be wrong.
But you have to make the call.
Should have done that years ago.
Different life.
And here am I.
And here I am.
And here
and here I am.
And here I am.
[Soft music]
Here I am.
Who is this?
It's David, Joe.
David.
Lenny's having the surgery.
But I thought.
Is she okay?
Is it?
What happened?
She just changed her mind.
You know, it's the
smartest thing she can do.
Okay, so when is it?
Probably next week.
Uh, she's at the doctor now.
Look, she doesn't even
know I'm calling you.
Uh, I just thought you should
know so you can make plans.
Yeah. No, no. Of course.
Um, but this is an outpatient thing, right?
Joe.
It's your sister.
Mm.
I gotta go.
David.
What are you doing?
This was your audition in an hour.
How many?
Just a little chardonnay
to take the edge off.
Roger.
How many good years
do you think I have left?
A hell of a lot more when you're on a show.
- You think so?
- Yes.
Because there's no guarantee.
You can still die miserable and alone.
And be number five on the call sheet.
Shmata. You know what that is?
It's Yiddish.
It's like a rag.
Something you throw on the
floor or something worthless.
My father worked his ass
off in the garment center so he
wouldn't be a shmata man like his father.
Six days a week, he works so he
can become something more than worthless.
Rags, doormats.
The day I got a scholarship to
private school was exactly two
days before they told him
he had six months to live.
Lung cancer.
So you're right.
There are no guarantees.
You can die miserable.
But he made a difference.
I do what I do because I love it.
And because as stupid as this
business is, every day there's
a little chance I can make a difference.
Maybe help change someone's life.
Go do this, Joe.
Let's change your life today.
[Soft music]
Listen, jackass.
If it wasn't a personal ask
from the top, I'd be on a beach
in Hawaii.
You are a big sack.
He is you.
I'm sorry.
Oh, wait.
Joe.
Yeah.
Tony D.
We worked together on,
um, uh, coach's daughter.
Oh.
Yeah. How are you?
I'm hanging in there.
Yeah. Yeah, that was fun.
Um, it was a lot of fun.
It was.
You were good.
- Yeah.
- You were good.
It's a lifetime ago, right?
Right.
Yeah. Well I'm good. I'm really good.
Okay, listen, I gotta go use the head.
- Oh no, no, no, go.
- Sorry.
All right.
Good to see you.
I'll see you in there.
All right.
All right.
Thanks.
Okay.
I'm sorry.
Oh my God, I'm sorry.
Wait wait wait wait, I need help.
Please, please, can you give me a hand?
Fucking diapers.
Shoulder won't go that way.
No. It's okay.
I'm sorry I should have locked the door.
Okay.
You know.
I'm to accept indignity.
You will too, if you haven't already.
My wife used to help me with this shit.
She's with the angels now.
Thanks for your help.
I'll see you out there.
Why are you doing this?
Hey.
It's Joanne Stock.
Hey, Vanessa Baron.
Well, ain't this a bunch of shit?
We just feel in a room, right?
How you been?
I haven't seen you in a while.
Yeah, well, I've been out of town working.
No.
Come on.
What you been doing?
I've been visiting my sister.
What is it Netflix?
They got you on an NDA.
Come on, spill it, girl.
Any roles for me?
My sister has cancer.
Who does?
My sister.
Oh, damn.
Been busy otherwise?
Other than visiting my
sister who has cancer.
Yeah.
Sorry.
That sucks.
Being kind of slow for me.
Yeah, well, maybe you'll book
this job and your life will be perfect.
Oh, well, at least I
got my real estate gig.
Best thing I ever did, huh?
Acting is pretty much a hobby now.
You know?
Real estate is my business.
Still got that, uh,
nice house in Silver Lake?
Baron. Real property.
You ever think that one through?
Joe Stock.
Oh, if you were ever
thinking of selling, hit me up.
Man, it's a good time to get out.
This is Joe Stock.
Joe, welcome.
Ready to work?
Yeah.
Let's do it.
Okay.
Any questions?
Well, yeah.
I was sitting outside
wondering, why do I keep doing
this if I really don't care?
Well, that's a good question,
because this character
has reached a crossroads.
Do I continue with the way
things are, keep swallowing the shit?
Or do I try shaking the tree
and just say, fuck it, you know?
Yeah, I know, but I mean, I
can't make that call without
really knowing what happens in the end.
Excuse me?
Well, I mean, I can't commit to
the scene unless I know what my
character wants.
I mean, does she really want
out, or does she hope that this
is something that will keep her relevant?
Well, what do you think she wants?
I think that she's got caught
up in this for all the wrong reasons.
I mean, what she's trying
to make a point is she want
attention, but she can't admit
it because she's already on the train.
Exactly.
Yeah. To get off that train
just got to blow it up.
Great. I love that.
Good. Let's do the scene.
Blow up the train.
Come on.
Go right into it.
Boss said we could count on you.
And I'm here.
At least your brain still works.
What's that supposed to mean?
Joe, let me stop you here.
Um, she needs to be more of a threat.
She's dangerous.
Right? This is it for her.
We like what you did before.
Yeah, right.
No, I just I just thought
I'd try something.
No, no.
Trust the process.
Let me adjust you.
Okay. We're here to work, right?
Yeah.
Okay. Do you need that?
Okay. Come on.
We're here to work, right?
Yeah.
Let's do it from the top.
Boss said we could count on you.
And here I am.
Yeah. More.
More forceful, more presence.
Come on.
And here.
Listen, you know what it really should be.
And I'm here.
You know, she needs to let
her show her ovaries can confront
this head on.
Okay, great, I love it.
Go.
And I'm here.
At least.
At least your brain still works.
What's that supposed to mean?
Oh. Relax, grandma.
Over 30 years of fucking experience.
And it means nothing.
Maybe it means you're
past your expiration date.
Listen, jackass.
If this wasn't a request, a
personal request from the top
guy, I would have been
on a beach in Hawaii.
Well, maybe you should pack
your bags, move on while you
still got a little tread
left on those tires.
Be thankful you're still alive.
Yeah.
Should have done that.
I should have moved on a long time ago
while I was younger.
While I had a chance for a
better life or a different life.
So you're gonna back out now?
[Soft music]
She just walked in.
I'll call you back.
Have you lost your mind?
Roger.
Do you have any idea how
hard it is to get you an audition?
Get anyone your age not named
Angela Bassett and audition.
Because I'll tell you, it's fucking hard.
Seven out of ten episodes,
Jo probably bumped a series
regular, and you walk out of
a work session with a director.
Widgets. That's what we are.
They called everybody back.
Who cares?
That's your job.
It's what you do.
If you don't love it, get out.
But I think you screwed the
pooch before the pooch could
screw you.
Jesus, Jo.
Who walks away when their that close?
But you didn't come to hear this,
so let's have it.
Roger, this isn't easy.
I don't know how many years
it's been since I plucked you
out of equity waiver obscurity.
30 years.
30 years of selling you.
Fighting for you.
And my faith in you never wavered.
But yours did.
You stop believing yourself?
And so now.
Because you're done,
I have to be done.
And that hurts because
I watched you grow up.
But I'm just the agent.
And I'm just the product.
Always business.
I didn't mean it.
But it's what you said.
Don't be a stranger.
The door is always open.
[Soft music]
[Music continues]
[Music continues]
[Music continues]
Hey, mom.
It went better than expected.
Wouldn't lie to me.
I would.
But I'm not.
You did great.
I'm gonna text Jake.
I love you, mom.
I didn't know you were awake.
Hey.
Everything is okay.
I just talked to your doctor,
and she said it all went really well.
Oh.
It's gonna be okay.
We're here.
All of us.
Be spring before you know it.
Yeah.
Your treatments will be over.
Six weeks.
Scary.
Do you miss L.A.?
I think it's too soon to tell.
Are you gonna be okay?
Me?
Big changes.
For both of us.
But it was time.
When I was packing up her apartment.
I found it in mom's nightstand drawer.
I was going to give it to you,
but you were in such a bad
space, I thought I would
wait until a better time.
And then life happened and I forgot.
I don't think you know
how proud she was of you,
how much she loved you.
She just didn't know how to tell you.
[Crying]
Oh.
Okay.
Now tell me what you think
when you look at this photo.
Yes.
It makes me hungry.
It makes you hungry?
Okay. Um,
what about this one?
Yes.
It makes me feel safe.
Why?
Because he's with his brother.
Is that wrong?
It's perfect.
All right, everybody.
That was great.
That was great.
That's it.
Class dismissed.
Everybody have a good night.
See you tomorrow.
Bye.
Have a good night, everybody.
- Bye.
- See you tomorrow, Sergio.
Thank you, Isabella.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
So now what?
I don't know.
Maybe I'll take a few photos.
Get to know this place a little better.
Takes time.
Turns out I have that.
Will I see you soon?
You will.
[Soft music]
[Phone ringing]
[Music continues]
[Soft music]
[Music continues]
So tell me what's going on.
Hello, I'm doctor Gaines.
So tell me what's going on.
Do you mind stepping outside
so I can talk to your wife alone?
Would you mind stepping outside
so I can talk to your wife alone?
No, no, of course I understand.
So tell me what's going on.
[Stuttering]
And the tremors.
When did the tremors start?
So tell me, when did the tremors start?
When did the tremors start?
And when did the tremor start?
[Soft piano music]
She'll be perfect.
Yeah. And
she's still young enough to be sexy.
Yeah. Okay, I'll call her agent.
Ready?
Uh, yeah.
Okay.
Hello, I'm doctor Gaines.
Nice to meet you.
Would you mind stepping outside?
I'd like to speak to your wife.
Uh, no.
I want my husband to stay.
Oh, no.
No. Of course.
So tell me what's going on.
That's great.
Thank you.
Huh?
Very good.
What about the tremors?
The tremors?
What about.
When did the tremor start?
You know the rest of the scene.
We're good.
Thanks for zooming in.
[Soft piano music]
[Music continues]
May I help you?
Wow.
Seriously? I'm Joanne Stock.
I'm a client.
I'm so sorry.
Will you tell Roger I'm here?
Let me see if he's in.
I can hear him.
Joanne Stock to see you.
Mhm.
Okay. He's not in.
Gotcha. Ha ha.
That's called a reversal of expectations.
Learned that in my writing class.
You can go in.
It's okay.
There she is.
Where did you find him?
It's Hollywood, Joe models,
actors, writers, whatever.
It's like Tumbleweed in Texas.
Maybe that explains why it
feels like a ghost town in here.
Nobody's going to work since the pandemic.
How'd it go?
They cast the role before
I even open up my mouth.
I know it's frustrating.
There's just not a lot of stuff
for women of a certain age.
What age is that?
Fossil six.
Fossil seven.
The right part comes along.
Shit happens.
Look at Fyvush Finkel,
first series regular at 70.
He won an Emmy at 72.
That's not very helpful.
It's just dead right now.
Everything is younger.
Oh, come on.
Older people can murder younger people.
Trust me.
I've thought about it.
Joe.
Older people can teach younger people.
They can operate on them.
Prosecute, defend.
Younger people still have moms, don't they?
I mean, they're not spawned out
of some type of petri dish, right?
I mean, I could have a kid, Roger.
I could be a mother.
Do you want to have a second heart attack?
Relax. I'm just sucking out the nicotine.
Do you think it's over?
I mean, do you think I'm done?
Don't go there.
It's too late.
Hey,
Lenny.
I'm here.
Thought I lost you.
What's up?
Not much.
The boy's fighting again.
No, no.
Well, yeah.
I don't know.
They're brothers.
Will's been really down, and
Jake has no patience for anything.
Especially his brother.
They'll be fine, honey.
Yeah, said the woman with no kids.
I had a plan.
Hey. Come visit.
We really miss you.
We'd love to see you.
Uh. I vaguely remember my last visit.
I was told you're not my
mother, so stay out of this, okay?
That was so long ago.
Well, you can't hide from us forever.
I'm not hiding.
You're the one who moved all
the way to the ass end of nowhere.
Well, so.
So what?
You're never going to visit again?
I didn't say that.
It's just,
you know, I've got a
lot going on, and I just, I.
There's a lot on my plate.
Lenny.
What?
Nothing, nothing.
I'm just.
I'm just tired.
You know?
Listen, um, why don't I talk it
over with my agent and move
some stuff around?
But I'm not making any promises.
No, of course not.
No,
but we'd love to see you.
Okay.
Bye bye.
[Soft piano music]
God.
Yes.
Morning. Silver Lake Termite.
Yeah sorry, I'm ten minutes early.
Hold on.
I'll be right there.
Not a problem.
Whatever.
You hear that?
Kind of like a hollow sound.
You might have some damage.
You said you saw droppings.
Uh, yeah.
Over here.
Yep. You got termites?
Perfect. How much is that going to cost?
Well, I'm going to need to look
around and see how bad it is.
It should take me about an hour.
Yay!
So how bad is it?
Well, I've seen worse.
Oh. That's good.
I've also seen better.
The good news is that
you're catching it early.
We can put you on the schedule ASAP.
All the information's
right here on the flyer.
You can't be here for three days.
But honestly, I'd make
it four just to be safe.
What? Where am I
supposed to go for four days?
Oh, I don't know.
Hotel. Uh, stay with your kids, maybe.
I have no kids.
Oh, really?
Oh, yes, really.
Can I ask you a question?
Aren't you that actress
from the coach's daughter.
Mhm. I knew it.
Yeah I used to watch that show.
Can I get a selfie.
Mhm. So whatever happened to you.
Apparently I died.
Listen I don't want to be
rude but I got to get going.
Oh. What about the termite.
I'll call the office.
[Soft piano music]
At least you made a living at it.
Made.
I can't afford this.
That's why I started
taking my pension early.
What gets you up in the morning?
Is this a trick question?
Uh, reruns of Soul Train and a box of wine.
Look, I've known you
for, what, like, 30 years?
I don't think I've ever seen you be happy.
Oh, come on, Cherise.
What about the trip to Hawaii?
I won when we were in Vegas.
You seemed more
embarrassed by that than happy.
Oh. Come on.
How about that time I booked
that spokesperson gig for the
credit card?
Oh.
The first thing out of your mouth.
Oh, it's just a commercial.
Do you know how many actors
would kill for just a commercial?
Yeah, actors who've
never been on a TV show.
I mean, I'm sorry.
There is a difference.
I mean, people used to call me
every day to talk about the episodes.
Did your mother.
Did she?
Oh, please don't analyze me.
Okay?
Just think about it.
All right.
My mother was a miserable alcoholic.
Who never said anything nice to you.
She would say things like,
you're never going to make it.
Yes. She would say,
you're never going to make it.
But she never said that to Lenny.
Linney.
Maybe it's because she
actually gave birth to Linney.
Wow.
Oh.
You're really 100% in
that therapy, aren't you?
Maybe.
Maybe my mother was jealous.
Jealous of what?
Of me.
Because I was strong.
I didn't need anyone to make me happy.
Because you're so happy on your own.
Joanne.
Oh, Kevin.
You remember me?
Roger wanted to fire you until
I pleaded with him, you know.
To let you stay until you screw up again.
Then I told him he should fire your ass.
And that's what they consider a plot twist.
Something I learned in my
30 plus years in this business.
[Laughter]
You got me.
Okay, that was good.
That's fair.
Uh, I guess we could consider this a theme.
If you keep it up.
You can consider it conflict.
Noted.
Where is he?
He's finishing up a meeting.
But is he.
Oh, but he is.
Thank you so much.
Oh my God.
Joanne Stock.
I grew up watching reruns of
you in The Coach's Daughter.
My grandma's gonna flip
when I tell her that I met you.
Oh, actually, I.
I better jet.
It's a busy day.
You get it.
Bye, Skyler.
Bye.
You're not competing with her, Joe.
She's 30.
You know, it's funny.
I came here to see how you
felt about me leaving town for a
couple of days.
You know, if I miss anything.
But it looks like you've got that covered.
Oh. Come on.
There's a natural progression
of things in life, Joe.
You and I are progressing naturally.
Is that what this is?
Yes.
We should be grateful.
There's no sin in getting older.
Mm.
Take a break.
I'll call if something comes up.
I was so fun.
I caught it every Tuesday night.
I just loved your show.
Thanks again for the autograph.
All right, bye.
Have a good visit.
Thank you.
Bye.
Three years.
I think we're still in denial.
Will is for sure.
Melanie. You know, it's
just going to take time.
Hey, you ever hear from Curtis?
Mm, no.
It's been years.
I heard he got remarried.
Oh. Found someone he could control.
Probably,
but I get it, you know?
I mean, we all change.
I'm certainly not the
same person I used to be.
Who is?
[Soft music]
House looks great.
Is that a new roof?
Yeah. Metal.
Aaron said it would outlive both of us.
I gotta pee.
Okay. Very nice.
Oh, boy.
Oh boy. Okay.
What's all this?
Oh, I've been reading.
About mushrooms.
They're magical Joe.
It's not, not like in the 70s.
So what are they supposed to do?
Make your skin softer and shinier.
Do they take away wrinkles?
Yes.
And you believe that?
I do.
I do.
I think they might even help with cancer.
Wow. Okay.
Well, then they are magical.
Um.
I was going to tell you, but.
I had a breast biopsy, and,
um, there's a low grade spot.
Uh, so there.
The Bonnie, and it's surprises.
Um, I'm going to be okay.
Even the doctor is willing to wait and see.
Are you taking mushrooms
while you're waiting?
When did you know about this?
Um, it's been about three
months, but I just had another.
MRI, and I'm doing everything.
Why didn't you tell me?
Oh, because I don't know.
Because I know how you get.
I'm just.
I'm I'm.
I'm sorry.
They took me off my hormone
therapy, and I'm just an
emotional mess.
Plus, half the time I feel
like I'm living on the sun.
I don't know how you do it.
Amazon, and they use the same
batteries as used for your vibrator.
As if.
Oh.
Now, if it could only help me shit.
Well, it's not going to do that.
Oh.
I think that's Jake.
Come on, let's go see grandma.
Uh, have you told the kids yet?
Oh.
Uh, no, I will, but but just act normal.
Nobody knows yet.
What?
Joe, please.
This is why I didn't tell you.
Hi, honey.
Uh.
Hey. You made it.
Oh.
Oh, easy, big boy.
Handle with care.
Oh! Get out!
Sexy lady.
Right.
Leah, say hi to your Auntie Joe.
Oh, look how pretty you are.
Um, mom, I need you to
watch Leah for a couple hours.
I'm heading down to
Chuckanut to install these gates.
And then I got to head back to the shop.
Honey, your aunt just got here.
Mom. Come on.
It's not like you're going anywhere.
- Yeah but your aunt.
- Lynnie.
Don't stress it.
Next time, ask.
Okay. Thank you, Mom.
Leah, I'll see you later.
Shabam.
I'll see ya.
Oh, Auntie Jo, say hi to Chris.
He's always wanted to meet a movie star.
Oh.
Hey, Chris.
Hi. Uh, I saw you in that
commercial for the fluvoxamine.
I remember because I take that one, too.
It makes me constipated,
but I'm, uh, working it out.
Get it?
I'm working it out.
Um, yeah.
I really look like you had allergies.
Um, welcome to the Pacific Northwest.
A little different than LA, huh?
Oh, yeah.
More Subarus and a lot colder.
Oh, yeah.
It is colder out here.
Yeah. Well, uh, yeah, it's it's.
I like it out here.
I've been here for a while.
We'll see you later, Auntie Joe.
Good to meet you.
All right.
All right.
What's wrong with you?
You say you're constipated.
What is that about?
I'm so glad you're here.
No no no no no, you don't need to stop.
Oh. It's fine.
Don't want to overdo it.
Wow.
Renee, you've been busy.
I guess.
Not really.
I don't know.
It's an outlet.
Beats thinking about who'd be
here for the kids if something happens.
Want some tea?
Sure. Where's Leah?
Oh, she'll be asleep for another hour.
Trust me, grandma knows.
Oh, grandma.
We're old.
Better than the alternative.
[Soft music]
Funny that we both ended
up on the West Coast.
We got as far away as we could get.
I guess you, uh, went with isolation.
And what'd you go with?
Adulation?
Um.
I don't know.
Actor. Abandoned by two mothers.
Oh, mom didn't abandon you?
Our mom anyway.
Well, maybe you got it right.
The isolation part.
You're going to, uh,
talk to your doctor, right?
I will.
No, I mean, you're gonna
listen to what she has to say.
Please don't be like everybody else.
Don't tell me what's good for
me or bad for me or right for
me or wrong for me.
Really? I'm just so sick of
people telling me I'm crazy
because I believe in all possibilities.
Yeah. But mushrooms.
I mean, just try living in reality.
Thanks, mom.
You know, don't do that.
Have you read a lot
about alternative medicine?
About functional medicine?
Listen, I know.
Because I have.
I'm sure.
But I'm worried that you're.
Oh, stop.
I'm. Do you think I'm not worried?
I go to bed worrying.
I wake up worrying.
What's going to happen next?
Am I going to die?
Are they going to lop off my
boobs so I can live another
year and then die?
Will I ever see my granddaughter grow up?
Will my sons be okay?
Will they ever get along?
Who's going to be there
for them when I'm gone?
I'm so tired of worrying.
I'm so tired of being tired.
Okay. Is that enough reality for you?
It was a fucked up thing to say.
God, damn it.
I love that photo.
Yeah.
Do you remember what year this is?
Um.
Dad was already gone, so, like 2005?
Yeah.
Wow.
She looks so happy.
Must have had a glass of wine.
Probably a box.
Oh.
Jake will be here soon.
Oh.
Yeah.
Jake's a hard worker.
Mom would have approved.
Yeah.
But she'd never let him know it.
Mm.
I wish she could have been better with you.
I mean, I know it was okay in
the end, but it took so long to
get there.
Yeah, it was a lot easier when
she couldn't remember who I was.
In the hospital.
Towards the end,
she thought I was one of her nurses.
Remember?
She told me she had two daughters.
I know a good one and an adopted one.
But she didn't know what she was saying.
Yeah.
- Oh.
- Hey, hey.
A working man in the house.
That's me.
Leah.
Oh, she's in the studio watching TV.
Oh.
Honey. Want to stay for dinner?
Your brother's coming.
Mom. Don't start.
Every time Will comes for dinner.
You know how it is.
Mm.
- Just like family.
- Joe.
You know, I know a guy who
knows a guy who can get you a gun.
Joe.
Yeah, bro.
Hook it up, Jake.
Uh, you think you'd be
happier if Will were gone?
Do you?
Jesus Aunt Joe.
I don't want him dead.
I just want him to grow up a little.
Hey.
He's figuring it out.
Yeah, we're all figuring it out.
He builds, like, 1 or 2 bikes
a year, and he thinks he's
working his ass off.
Jake, that's not true.
It is true, mom.
You're always defending him.
Lady, don't play favorites.
Don't do that.
Well.
Maybe you two could work together.
Yeah, right.
It's different with brothers.
He's too busy with shit like Burning Man.
Got a post for the Insta.
You sound a little bitter.
I'm not bitter.
I get it.
You got a job, a kid,
no time.
Will's life looks fun,
but we all make choices.
Yeah, well, you ought to know, Aunt Jo.
Like you say, your time has
come or your time is gone.
Thanks for watching Leah, Mom.
Leah. Sweet pea.
Time to go.
What the hell, Joe?
These are some tomatoes.
Mm. They're from the backyard.
Raccoon kept eating my
tomatoes, so I moved it inside.
But they're just dying.
Tough to grow tomatoes inside.
They need air.
Every time I hear that
motorcycle roll up, I feel relieved.
Act normal.
God, there's more acting here than in LA.
Miss me?
Hey, Auntie Joe, what up?
I'm gracing us with your
presence all the way from Los Angeles.
- Oh sweetie.
- I'm glad to see you.
Hi, honey.
What's going on?
What?
Uh.
Hey, you want a drink?
Uh, no.
I'm good.
Back in the wagon again.
Oh, cool.
All right.
Uh, Jake told me that you went
to Burning Man again, but you
still have some sand in your ears?
Yeah. Everywhere.
Dude.
I don't want to hear about that.
How'd it go?
Yeah. It was.
It was sweet.
You know, kind of the usual thing.
Uh,
a lot of crazy shit.
A lot of people trying to
figure themselves out, so.
So if you could get a bike
to Keanu or George Clooney.
Pink. She rides right.
So then when people see
them on a Will Turner bike, then
suddenly you just blow up.
That would be huge, dude.
I mean, do you know any of
them or any celebs that ride?
Um, you know, I'm going
to have to think about that.
I get it.
No worries.
Okay, cool.
Is mom okay?
Okay?
I will.
Goodbye.
[Crying]
They might have seen something else.
They want me to come in for more imaging.
And then
they want me to meet
with the surgeon in case.
What am I going to tell the kids?
It's barely three years since Aaron died.
Don't leave Joe.
This is going to sound worse than it is.
It's not.
I went to the doctor for my mammogram.
And they saw something.
I knew it.
A tiny spot, zero grade, they said.
Honey, that means that it's.
It is.
It's so early.
They're just going to do more.
Your brother thought you'd be here.
She's going to be okay.
How do you know?
My dad was supposed to be okay.
Honey, that was different.
Why?
Well, because he killed himself.
Because he was crazy.
Your father wasn't crazy.
The world was too much for him.
My mom can't die.
Auntie.
She can't.
I know.
I'm not ready for that.
None of us are.
But she's tough.
I mean, she gave birth to you
with your size ten head in the
living room with a midwife and no drugs.
Right.
You know,
your mom used to say that you
were cursed by the sign of the crab.
Tough on the outside,
but soft on the inside.
Her and her astrology.
You're a lot like her.
And your dad.
You're a true artist.
You just.
Seem to feel things more deeply.
It just hurts so much,
you know?
Yeah.
It's messed up.
Yeah.
I can build anything.
I can fix anything.
But I can't fix my mom.
It's okay.
Let it.
Out. It's okay.
Please. Not again.
Please.
It's okay.
Let's go home.
Let's go home.
But you said the spot was
unchanged and might even be
smaller than it was before.
Well, that's why I think we
could treat with lumpectomy and
radiation and have great results.
So you lied to me.
I didn't lie.
We took a wait and see approach
with your case and allowed you
to try alternative medicines.
Allowed me?
Oh. How kind.
Sorry. That's completely the wrong word.
We respect your choice
to try different things.
So what changed?
Well.
Fortunately nothing.
This MRI and your imaging from
three months ago are remarkably
the same.
In fact, I'd like to know more
about your supplement regimen.
But this is a real chance
to get ahead of your cancer.
And if I do nothing now?
Well, that,
that wouldn't be my recommendation.
But it's your decision.
I just want you to have the
best chance that medicine can
provide Western medicine.
Since nothing's changed, I'd
like to wait three more months.
Knock, knock.
David.
Hey, am I interrupting?
I just came by to see how it went.
Oh. I'm fine.
Hey, want to sit?
This is my sister, Jo.
The actress from California.
Huh? Yeah.
Lennie talks about you all the time.
Uh oh.
Only the good stuff.
David teaches Leah's art class.
We love David.
So.
Oh.
You know, just navigating the waters.
Want some tea?
Here, I'll get it.
No, no no, no.
You sit.
Talk to David.
Is she okay?
It's hard to tell.
Be better.
She filled you in.
Mhm. So you.
Um, are an art teacher?
Yep.
How'd you get into that?
Love art. Love kids.
Well, then you made the right choice.
I think it's nice to to do what you love.
You don't love being an actor?
I do when I'm working, but I
just feel like I'm fading away
into oblivion.
If you don't have a million
followers, you're just not legit.
Mm. Yeah.
Social media, death of civilization.
I actually thought that I'd be
making a living with my camera.
What happened?
It just seemed like a big pipe dream.
As opposed to the
sure thing that acting is.
Nice.
So teaching kids that
is a big responsibility.
Maybe.
But I think kids learn more from
who you are than what you teach.
Mm.
Right. Good luck.
Hey. Thanks, buddy.
Cheers.
What's the chicken for?
It's for the crabs.
You feed the crabs chickien?
If you want to trap something,
you got to make it tempting.
You sure you don't want to come?
Oh, I'm sure I would just get sick.
And you know how black
people feel about boats, so.
No. This is good for you.
You go.
Okay, everyone get together.
Careful. One. Two. Three.
[Soft music]
We got some.
Yeah.
Yes. All right.
Look at this guy.
Wow.
Six and a quarter.
It's a keeper, boys.
That's a keeper.
Definitely over the limit.
You know.
Toss her in the bucket.
Just put it in the bucket.
All right.
This one's feisty.
Oh. Holding on for dear life.
[Soft music]
Good job.
Okay hold on.
I know.
I know, you know, I'm just reminding you.
What's up?
Jake's a good dad.
Yeah. Pretty much.
He has his fucked up moments.
Yeah, well, it runs in the family.
You would have been a good mom.
I don't know.
Pretty tough
putting a stamp on another human being.
Well, you don't stamp them.
You. You guide them.
Yeah, I think about it sometimes.
Making a contribution to the world.
You know.
That's not exactly how I
would describe having kids.
You know what I'm saying?
It's passing down knowledge.
Making a difference in someone else's life.
Yeah. You make a difference
by loving them unconditionally.
That's how it works.
Here's to my sister in combat.
I am armor and sword to you.
And comrade.
And always your comrade.
What?
Uh, just, uh, one of our
favorite comic books.
When we were growing up.
We had a routine.
Yeah.
Isn't it funny?
The things we remember.
That comic books are
probably worth a fortune now.
Yeah, well, your grandma trashed them.
What? Why?
She thought it was a waste of time.
She thought I should
learn how to type instead.
Yeah.
Mom wasn't exactly marching
for the women's movement.
Jeez.
Oh, I gotta check on dinner.
Mom, relax.
We're good.
Sweetie. Come, let's make cookies.
Ah,
she worries about everything these days.
Yeah, well.
Do you blame her?
You're doing a real good job with Leah.
With everything.
Oh.
No.
Thank you, I appreciate it.
I think it's important you hear that?
Mom likes it when you visit.
What about you?
Ah, I don't know.
Maybe I could get used to it.
No, it's a good start.
Yeah. Well, sorry.
I think we would have caught the big one.
The big kahuna.
Hey.
Hey, David.
Hey.
Need any help?
Oh no. I'm good.
- Good. Lynnie inside?
- Yeah.
All right.
See you in a minute.
Someone's got a crush.
What?
Oh, come on now.
Oh. Come on what?
You see what I'm seeing, right?
Oh, yeah.
- Lady boner.
- Lady boner.
Oh.
Auntie Joe, it's a grade A lady boner.
You know it, I know it, we all know it.
I want to get a picture of you guys.
Do we have to?
Stand with him.
Come on, Jake.
Fine.
Uh.
- Come on over here.
- Nice.
Nice.
Cheese.
Oh, sorry.
New phone. Who dis?
Very funny.
So, FYI, I got a call about
you from this NBC pilot.
I submitted you on.
A network pilot.
Really?
An aging hit man pulled out of
retirement back into the family
against his will.
A hit man.
His will.
Could be a man or a woman.
Or open to ethnicity, blah, blah bullshit.
They have no clue.
Look, Joe, I'm working on it.
I'll know by the end of the
day if it's going to happen.
But if they want to see you.
I'm not going to hold my breath.
But you know where to find me.
Thanks, Roger.
You're welcome.
[Calm music]
Have you heard about summer snow
When it falls on you
Your blood runs cold
But don't you sweat your pretty skin
Cause it melts away
For it sinks in
And you dream about this very night
When the moon rolls down the summer sky
Could it be the morning of the spring
When the sea runs
dry we'll start to sing
Have you heard
from the sky all about it
Down the river at high tide
Flows around it
Through the whispers of pines
I hear them saying
The more you love, the more you live
Have you heard from the sky
All about it
Through the whispers of pines
I hear them saying
The more you love, the more you live
This is truly a little slice of heaven.
Maybe you should throttle it back a bit.
What? Come on.
You're always known as
the last one to leave a party.
What does that mean?
Mm.
Oh, no.
Stop stop.
Stop.
Stop.
It means that you were known to have fun.
What is that a bad thing?
You should try it sometime.
Be happy.
Who says we have the right to be happy?
Oh, Lord.
Okay, right.
Okay, mom.
Oh, God.
Why do you do that?
Why do you do that?
All right.
Look, look, this is gonna
be a sibling smack down.
Maybe I'll leave a little early.
David. No, no. You stay.
I'm pooped.
I'm going to bed.
Oh, no, no, no.
I'm so sorry.
I'm so sorry.
It was release drinking.
Maybe you should get a little sleep.
Yeah.
Okay.
Goodnight David.
Goodnight Lynnie. Thanks for dinner.
You bet.
Well, I just went from not
liking you very much, to thinking
okay, maybe she's all right.
Maybe.
Jury's out.
Yeah. Uh, maybe by your next
visit, I'll have a better opinion.
Oh.
Uh, that's why you're a teacher.
Release drinking?
I don't know, but I'm not drunk.
Just mean.
Ouch.
That's what my ex-husband used to say.
He used to say I
sounded angry all the time.
Why are you so angry?
Uh uh uh.
You see?
No no no no.
That's that's giving away the ending.
You must buy the book.
Well, Amazon lets you, uh, read
a chapter before you buy the book.
Well, I guess it was
just so angry because I,
got caught
by the bait,
and I was trapped, and I couldn't get out.
Just like those crabs today.
So stop being so crabby.
Mm. You know, move
forwards instead of sideways.
It's not that easy.
Something bothers you?
You change it.
Unless you're scared.
Scared?
Oh, my God, we're all scared.
Aren't we all scared?
I mean, because ultimately,
we're all just so fucking fragile.
That's the gift of life.
Some gift?
No, it is. It is.
Because when you
realize that everything ends,
you find ways to.
You make ways to live a full life.
That's why you're a teacher.
You should come to my class,
teach your kids about acting.
Not qualified to do that anymore.
All right. How about photography, cameras?
Too much of a commitment.
Oh, you're afraid of commitment?
Terrified.
Why?
Because someone really smart
once told me everything ends.
But he also said.
What?
That's when you make ways
and live a full life.
I gotta go.
School night.
Oh.
Um.
Yeah.
So.
Yeah. Give me a call
when you're back in town.
I got a classroom of curious students.
Good night Joe.
Goodnight.
[Soft music]
- Hey.
- Hey.
I'm an asshole.
Yep.
I don't know what to say.
Nothing.
Are you mad at me?
I don't have the energy to be mad, Joe.
Um, so I got a text
from my agent last night.
They want me to audition for this thing.
Oh.
That's good right?
It's probably a waste of time.
Good attitude.
No, I mean, they don't know what they want.
They're looking at men,
women, open to ethnicity.
I mean, it's all bullshit.
It's just for them to feel
good about themselves.
I mean, look, see how diverse we are.
Anyway, um, I've got to get
back this morning, so I changed
my flight.
But I can come back soon, Lenny.
I mean, when you find out
what's happening, if you need me.
I don't need you.
I've got the boys.
And David's been great.
You two seem to hit it off.
David?
Yeah. No, he's very nice.
I'm just worried about you.
Are you going to be okay?
Look, Joe, I can't make
you feel better about leaving.
Just do what you have to do.
Can I ask you something?
Why do you keep doing it if you don't care?
Doing what?
Acting.
I don't know.
It's been my job for over 30 years.
The sick thing is, the only
thing I have to show for it is
a house in Silver Lake
and a old TV show poster.
- That's a little dramatic.
- Is it?
I have a shitty career.
I don't have a husband.
I don't have kids.
I don't have a family.
I mean, should I just ignore all of that?
Do what works for you.
You always have.
What's that supposed to mean?
Well, it's like when mom
and Dad were dying.
Oh, here we go.
I dropped everything and went to New York.
You didn't have a real job.
Like you did.
Hey, I was auditioning for stuff.
I was booking things.
Oh, right.
Fluvoxamine, a career maker.
Well, it was a money maker that
stopped me from sponging off of mom.
Unlike you.
She was helping me.
Well, she was ignoring me.
So that's why you took it out on her?
Maybe a little payback for all
the years she was shitty to you.
She treated you like crap.
It was unfair.
Yeah, well, we all make our choices.
We do?
Maybe you should think about
what you're doing and why.
You should do the same thing.
I got a pack.
[Sad music]
Thanks for coming in.
We're trying to zoom less
and room more these days.
Ready to go?
Okay.
Boss said we could count on you.
And I'm here.
Shit. I'm sorry.
That's wrong.
I know that's wrong.
Um. And here I am.
It's okay.
It doesn't need to be word perfect.
Boss said we could count on you.
And I'm here.
At least your brain still works.
What's that supposed to mean?
Relax, grandma.
30 fucking years of
experience means nothing.
Maybe it just means you've
passed your expiration date.
Listen, jackass, if this hadn't
been a personal ask from the
top, I'd be sitting on a beach in Hawaii.
Okay, I can stop you there.
I'm surprised we've never met before.
Sorry. We're behind the gun.
We're got a room full of
actors, directors flying in.
It's good.
You're good to go.
Roger?
You sound surprised.
Didn't it go well?
She seemed more concerned
about clearing the room than finding
the right actor.
I barely got started before she stopped me.
Maybe she stopped you
because she got what she wanted.
It doesn't work that way.
Apparently it does.
They're calling you back
to work with the director.
Seriously?
She said she felt your
connection to the material.
See, I told you the
right thing comes along.
Fiveish Finkel.
It's the real deal, Joe.
Can I confirm you?
Okay.
I'll let you know.
Hey.
Am I interrupting?
No no no no no.
What's up?
How you feel?
I feel fine.
Uh, but the doctor called.
She's pretty sure there's
something there now.
Well, you know, I'm.
I'm sure it's nothing, Lynnie.
I mean, technology has advanced so far.
I mean, they're seeing things
now that they've never seen before.
Yeah. I feel like they're
trying to see something.
Like it's just about money.
I don't want to burn
through our savings on.
Your health.
No. I'd like to help the kids.
Oh.
These kids are grown men.
You've got to stop worrying.
You'll never understand.
That's why you live alone in LA.
And that's why you never had kids.
And that's why
you'll never understand what it
is to love somebody more than
you love yourself.
You're just too selfish.
It's called survival.
Anything else?
Oh fuck off, Joe.
Can you at least promise
me you're going to tell
me what the doctor says?
You really got in there.
Almost keeps me sane.
Yeah. Art's like therapy.
You know, I think we're
happiest when we're most focused.
There's no room for distraction.
Oh.
If only.
You know.
What?
Nothing. I just keep thinking that.
Just say it, David.
I just wonder if the safest
thing to do is to be proactive
and get out in front of the cancer.
Did my sister put you up to this?
That's a little insulting.
Insulting? Is your friend
not supporting you?
Well, tell me I'm wrong.
I just did.
You don't want my
opinion. Don't ask for it.
Mhm.
No no no no, don't do that.
Don't blow me off.
I'm trying to support you.
Then do it.
Sometimes you make it so hard.
Because you are so committed to
your way that you make everyone
else the enemy.
Your husband was my best friend.
And I promised him that
I would look out for you.
I am not the enemy.
It's okay.
Yeah. You okay?
Yeah.
Ouch.
All right.
Cherise, you're my friend and a therapist.
Just tell me what to do.
Joe, I can't tell you what to do.
No one could ever tell you what to do.
But look, you're the only one
who knows what you want.
But I don't.
Ooh, I do.
Oh, no no no.
He is happily married with
three kids, two dogs and a cat.
Yo, Eric.
You drive.
Get away from you.
Yeah. You know, it's
just one of those days.
I know, been there, done that.
Yeah. Anyway, let me go find my ball.
And if I.
If I find a sandwich along
the way, I'll bring it back to you.
Okay? Why you do me like that?
- Take care.
- All right.
I'll see you later.
Just how happy in that marriage is he?
That's what I want to know.
Please focus.
I need your help.
Okay.
I once had a golf pro tell
me that with the perfect swing,
you should lead with your chest.
And then your head should follow.
And that helps me how?
Come on, Joe, just
let your head follow your heart.
You know, it was a metaphor.
All right, make a list.
Pros and cons.
Um, should you keep chasing
this dream or should you retire?
Travel. Take pictures.
It doesn't make any difference.
Whatever you choose.
It's not going to be wrong.
But you have to make the call.
Should have done that years ago.
Different life.
And here am I.
And here I am.
And here
and here I am.
And here I am.
[Soft music]
Here I am.
Who is this?
It's David, Joe.
David.
Lenny's having the surgery.
But I thought.
Is she okay?
Is it?
What happened?
She just changed her mind.
You know, it's the
smartest thing she can do.
Okay, so when is it?
Probably next week.
Uh, she's at the doctor now.
Look, she doesn't even
know I'm calling you.
Uh, I just thought you should
know so you can make plans.
Yeah. No, no. Of course.
Um, but this is an outpatient thing, right?
Joe.
It's your sister.
Mm.
I gotta go.
David.
What are you doing?
This was your audition in an hour.
How many?
Just a little chardonnay
to take the edge off.
Roger.
How many good years
do you think I have left?
A hell of a lot more when you're on a show.
- You think so?
- Yes.
Because there's no guarantee.
You can still die miserable and alone.
And be number five on the call sheet.
Shmata. You know what that is?
It's Yiddish.
It's like a rag.
Something you throw on the
floor or something worthless.
My father worked his ass
off in the garment center so he
wouldn't be a shmata man like his father.
Six days a week, he works so he
can become something more than worthless.
Rags, doormats.
The day I got a scholarship to
private school was exactly two
days before they told him
he had six months to live.
Lung cancer.
So you're right.
There are no guarantees.
You can die miserable.
But he made a difference.
I do what I do because I love it.
And because as stupid as this
business is, every day there's
a little chance I can make a difference.
Maybe help change someone's life.
Go do this, Joe.
Let's change your life today.
[Soft music]
Listen, jackass.
If it wasn't a personal ask
from the top, I'd be on a beach
in Hawaii.
You are a big sack.
He is you.
I'm sorry.
Oh, wait.
Joe.
Yeah.
Tony D.
We worked together on,
um, uh, coach's daughter.
Oh.
Yeah. How are you?
I'm hanging in there.
Yeah. Yeah, that was fun.
Um, it was a lot of fun.
It was.
You were good.
- Yeah.
- You were good.
It's a lifetime ago, right?
Right.
Yeah. Well I'm good. I'm really good.
Okay, listen, I gotta go use the head.
- Oh no, no, no, go.
- Sorry.
All right.
Good to see you.
I'll see you in there.
All right.
All right.
Thanks.
Okay.
I'm sorry.
Oh my God, I'm sorry.
Wait wait wait wait, I need help.
Please, please, can you give me a hand?
Fucking diapers.
Shoulder won't go that way.
No. It's okay.
I'm sorry I should have locked the door.
Okay.
You know.
I'm to accept indignity.
You will too, if you haven't already.
My wife used to help me with this shit.
She's with the angels now.
Thanks for your help.
I'll see you out there.
Why are you doing this?
Hey.
It's Joanne Stock.
Hey, Vanessa Baron.
Well, ain't this a bunch of shit?
We just feel in a room, right?
How you been?
I haven't seen you in a while.
Yeah, well, I've been out of town working.
No.
Come on.
What you been doing?
I've been visiting my sister.
What is it Netflix?
They got you on an NDA.
Come on, spill it, girl.
Any roles for me?
My sister has cancer.
Who does?
My sister.
Oh, damn.
Been busy otherwise?
Other than visiting my
sister who has cancer.
Yeah.
Sorry.
That sucks.
Being kind of slow for me.
Yeah, well, maybe you'll book
this job and your life will be perfect.
Oh, well, at least I
got my real estate gig.
Best thing I ever did, huh?
Acting is pretty much a hobby now.
You know?
Real estate is my business.
Still got that, uh,
nice house in Silver Lake?
Baron. Real property.
You ever think that one through?
Joe Stock.
Oh, if you were ever
thinking of selling, hit me up.
Man, it's a good time to get out.
This is Joe Stock.
Joe, welcome.
Ready to work?
Yeah.
Let's do it.
Okay.
Any questions?
Well, yeah.
I was sitting outside
wondering, why do I keep doing
this if I really don't care?
Well, that's a good question,
because this character
has reached a crossroads.
Do I continue with the way
things are, keep swallowing the shit?
Or do I try shaking the tree
and just say, fuck it, you know?
Yeah, I know, but I mean, I
can't make that call without
really knowing what happens in the end.
Excuse me?
Well, I mean, I can't commit to
the scene unless I know what my
character wants.
I mean, does she really want
out, or does she hope that this
is something that will keep her relevant?
Well, what do you think she wants?
I think that she's got caught
up in this for all the wrong reasons.
I mean, what she's trying
to make a point is she want
attention, but she can't admit
it because she's already on the train.
Exactly.
Yeah. To get off that train
just got to blow it up.
Great. I love that.
Good. Let's do the scene.
Blow up the train.
Come on.
Go right into it.
Boss said we could count on you.
And I'm here.
At least your brain still works.
What's that supposed to mean?
Joe, let me stop you here.
Um, she needs to be more of a threat.
She's dangerous.
Right? This is it for her.
We like what you did before.
Yeah, right.
No, I just I just thought
I'd try something.
No, no.
Trust the process.
Let me adjust you.
Okay. We're here to work, right?
Yeah.
Okay. Do you need that?
Okay. Come on.
We're here to work, right?
Yeah.
Let's do it from the top.
Boss said we could count on you.
And here I am.
Yeah. More.
More forceful, more presence.
Come on.
And here.
Listen, you know what it really should be.
And I'm here.
You know, she needs to let
her show her ovaries can confront
this head on.
Okay, great, I love it.
Go.
And I'm here.
At least.
At least your brain still works.
What's that supposed to mean?
Oh. Relax, grandma.
Over 30 years of fucking experience.
And it means nothing.
Maybe it means you're
past your expiration date.
Listen, jackass.
If this wasn't a request, a
personal request from the top
guy, I would have been
on a beach in Hawaii.
Well, maybe you should pack
your bags, move on while you
still got a little tread
left on those tires.
Be thankful you're still alive.
Yeah.
Should have done that.
I should have moved on a long time ago
while I was younger.
While I had a chance for a
better life or a different life.
So you're gonna back out now?
[Soft music]
She just walked in.
I'll call you back.
Have you lost your mind?
Roger.
Do you have any idea how
hard it is to get you an audition?
Get anyone your age not named
Angela Bassett and audition.
Because I'll tell you, it's fucking hard.
Seven out of ten episodes,
Jo probably bumped a series
regular, and you walk out of
a work session with a director.
Widgets. That's what we are.
They called everybody back.
Who cares?
That's your job.
It's what you do.
If you don't love it, get out.
But I think you screwed the
pooch before the pooch could
screw you.
Jesus, Jo.
Who walks away when their that close?
But you didn't come to hear this,
so let's have it.
Roger, this isn't easy.
I don't know how many years
it's been since I plucked you
out of equity waiver obscurity.
30 years.
30 years of selling you.
Fighting for you.
And my faith in you never wavered.
But yours did.
You stop believing yourself?
And so now.
Because you're done,
I have to be done.
And that hurts because
I watched you grow up.
But I'm just the agent.
And I'm just the product.
Always business.
I didn't mean it.
But it's what you said.
Don't be a stranger.
The door is always open.
[Soft music]
[Music continues]
[Music continues]
[Music continues]
Hey, mom.
It went better than expected.
Wouldn't lie to me.
I would.
But I'm not.
You did great.
I'm gonna text Jake.
I love you, mom.
I didn't know you were awake.
Hey.
Everything is okay.
I just talked to your doctor,
and she said it all went really well.
Oh.
It's gonna be okay.
We're here.
All of us.
Be spring before you know it.
Yeah.
Your treatments will be over.
Six weeks.
Scary.
Do you miss L.A.?
I think it's too soon to tell.
Are you gonna be okay?
Me?
Big changes.
For both of us.
But it was time.
When I was packing up her apartment.
I found it in mom's nightstand drawer.
I was going to give it to you,
but you were in such a bad
space, I thought I would
wait until a better time.
And then life happened and I forgot.
I don't think you know
how proud she was of you,
how much she loved you.
She just didn't know how to tell you.
[Crying]
Oh.
Okay.
Now tell me what you think
when you look at this photo.
Yes.
It makes me hungry.
It makes you hungry?
Okay. Um,
what about this one?
Yes.
It makes me feel safe.
Why?
Because he's with his brother.
Is that wrong?
It's perfect.
All right, everybody.
That was great.
That was great.
That's it.
Class dismissed.
Everybody have a good night.
See you tomorrow.
Bye.
Have a good night, everybody.
- Bye.
- See you tomorrow, Sergio.
Thank you, Isabella.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
So now what?
I don't know.
Maybe I'll take a few photos.
Get to know this place a little better.
Takes time.
Turns out I have that.
Will I see you soon?
You will.
[Soft music]
[Phone ringing]
[Music continues]
[Soft music]
[Music continues]