EXT. SPENCE HOUSEHOLD-NIGHT
Torrential rain pours down from the night sky. 
Lightning flashes. Thunder erupts.
A large magnolia tree casts a shadow over a two-story, middle class home.
Violent screams erupt from within the house.
Woman (O.S.)
You think that's it?!? Don't even get me started.
Man (O.S.)
Oh yeah? You sure spend a hell of a lot of time at the office!
Woman (O.S.)
Please.
Man (O.S.)
I knew it.
Woman (O.S.)
Oh yeah, that's it. You've got it all figured out.
Int. Spence household-kitchen-night
BRUCE and MARILYN SPENCE argue from opposite sides of the island counter.
Bruce
Listen to me.
Bruce points at Marilyn.
Bruce
You keep your distance from me, that's fine.
MarilYN
Gladly.
Marilyn stomps away.
Bruce yells after her.
Bruce
But you still have a son, goddamnit!
Bruce slams his fist against the island counter and chases after her. 
Int. Spence household-ronnie's bedroom-night
RONNIE SPENCE, a gentle and very pale 13-year old with jet black hair, listens to his parents bicker with his ear pressed against his door.
Bruce (O.S.)
Why the hell else wouldn't you come home until 10:30?
Woman (O.S.)
It's called work, Bruce. Maybe that's a new concept to you. I work my ass off for this family...
Ronnie wipes a tear from his cheek.
Man (O.S.)
I worked my ass off for this family for fifteen goddamn years! And speaking of work, is that whore garb what you spend all the goddamn money on?
A disquieting silence.
Ronnie presses his ear against the door harder.
Indecipherable, hushed whispers float through the house.
Thunder crashes and shakes the house. 
Ronnie jumps at the force of the storm.
Ronnie's door swiftly opens from the other side. 
Ronnie jumps back, wide-eyed and scared.
Bruce, a defeated, exhausted man in his mid-40s, fills the doorway. 
Bruce
Ronnie, what are you doing?
Ronnie opens his mouth nervously to answer...
Bruce
I thought I told you to keep this door open.
Ronnie
I...
Bruce
Go to sleep.
Bruce storms away from the door.
Ronnie takes a deep breath.
Int. Spence household-bathroom-night
Ronnie vigorously brushes his teeth. He spits a mouthful of foam into the sink, rinses his mouth, and spits again. 
He sadly studies his reflection in the mirror.
He peers down at his shaking arm. 
He rubs his fingers along a jungle of scars, scabs, and fresh cuts that cover the length from his wrist to his elbow. 
Int. Spence household-kitchen-night
Completely dark, except for the sporadic flashes of lightning.
Bruce greedily gulps water from the faucet. 
He takes a deep breath.
Peers out the window at the storm.
The loud ring of the telephone echoes in the kitchen.
Bruce picks it up.
Bruce
Hello?
Bruce's face droops.
Bruce
Okay.
(listens)
Well, how do you expect me to respond, Chuck?
(listens)
No he's not.
(listens)
I'll be there, but not for him. For my mother.
Bruce hangs up.
Ext. Cemetery-day
A funeral in progress.
Men dressed in black suits and women in black dresses surround a raised coffin. 
Sobs float through the air. 
A gray sky darkens the proceedings.
A PRIEST blesses the body inside.
The gravestone reads: EDWARD JAMES SPENCE 1941-2008.
Bruce watches, Marilyn and Ronnie at his sides, as they lower the coffin into the ground.
Ext. Cemetery-day
The Spences' trudge down the hill towards the parking lot.
Man (O.S.)
Bruce!
Marilyn and Ronnie turn around as Bruce continues to walk away.
In the background, the man jogs down the hill.
Marilyn
Bruce, isn't that Joseph?
Marilyn and Ronnie stop as Bruce ignores her.
JOSEPH, late 50s and slightly overweight, catches his breath as he catches up to them.
Bruce stops and stares off into the distance.
Marilyn, Ronnie, and Joseph converse directly behind him.
Marilyn
I'm deeply sorry for your loss, Joseph.
Joseph
It's tough, isn't it?
(to Ronnie)
Hey, how you doing, little buddy?
Ronnie
Fine.
Joseph
Haven't seen you in a while. How's school?
Ronnie hesitates.
Bruce turns quickly towards Joseph.
Bruce
It's none of your business, Joseph.
Marilyn
Bruce, of course it is. Joseph's family. He's your uncle, for Christ's sake.
Bruce
I don't care.
Joseph clears his throat uncomfortably.
Joseph
It's all right, Bruce. It's your son and I respect your rights as a parent.
Joseph steps towards Bruce.
Joseph
But we need to talk.
Bruce
I said I'd come. I never said I'd speak to anyone.
Joseph
Please, Bruce. Just five minutes of your time. I've never asked you for anything. Just do me this favor.
Beat.
Bruce
Five minutes. That's it. 
(to Marilyn)
Go to the car. I'll be there in six.
Ext. Cemetery-day
Bruce and Joseph stroll down a winding path.
Joseph
I'm sorry things had to happen this way. Been a tough few years for you.
Bruce
No tougher than the others.
Joseph
I mean with...the accident and losing your job. Some bad luck. But it happens to the best of us, Bruce. I just hope it...
Bruce
I never asked for your sympathy.
Joseph
Christ, Bruce. Why don't you just give me a chance? Give me a chance to be a fr...
Bruce
I said I'd give you five minutes, that's all.
Bruce and Joseph stop.
Bruce
Now cut to the chase. What is it you want from me?
Joseph takes a deep breath.
Joseph
It's not what I want. It's what your father wants.
Joseph takes a deep breath.
Joseph
Look, Bruce. I know my brother wasn't a perfect man. I know he wasn't a perfect father to you...
Bruce
Far from perfect.
Joseph
All I know is he tried his damndest with what he had.
Bruce chuckles.
Joseph
He tried his damndest to be the best father to you and the best husband to your mother that he knew possible.
Bruce
You didn't live in that house.
Joseph
Be that as it may, he wanted to make it up to you.
Bruce
It's a little late for that, wouldn't you say?
Joseph
He wants to leave the farm to you.
Beat.
Joseph
I know your skeletons are there, but...
Bruce
Too late. He sold it.
Joseph
When you mother died...
Bruce
Killed. When my mother was killed, Joseph. He got me out of the way and sold it. The only things that could remind him of her.
Joseph
He was just...in a bad spot at the time, Bruce. He was protecting you.
Bruce scoffs.
Bruce
Protecting me, huh?
Joseph
The truth is that he never sold it. He preserved it to preserve your mother's memory. And now he leaves it to you.
Bruce stares Joseph dead in the eyes.
Bruce
I don't want it.
Bruce storms away.
Joseph
Don't do this, Bruce. Don't be stupid.
Bruce abruptly turns...stares Joseph down.
Bruce
This is the smartest thing I've ever done.
Int. Spence household-living room-night
Ronnie sits on the floor, inches from the television.
The lights flash across his face.
Bruce sits in a recliner behind him.
Flips through a newspaper.
ON THE TV
Newscaster (O.S.)
...is up for debate. But new studies suggest the cause may be genetics.
Bruce peers over his paper at the television.
Bruce
Ronnie?
Ronnie
Hmm?
Bruce
Why don't you watch what normal kids watch?
Ronnie shrugs.
Ronnie
I don't want to be normal.
Bruce folds the newspaper.
Sets it on the floor.
Bruce
Turn it off.
Bruce stands.
Bruce leaves the living room.
Ronnie sighs and shuts the television off.
Int. Spence household-office-night
Bruce leans over a pile of bills on his desk.
Sweat drips.
His hands shake.
The letterhead on several of the papers reads CROSTON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL.
As he flips through them, he jots numbers down on a legal pad. 
He punches numbers into a calculator.
Takes a deep breath.
Throws everything off the desk in a fell swoop.
Int. car-day
Bruce steers his car down the road. 
Ext. Chemical plant-day
He turns a quick left into a huge parking lot.
The lot surrounds a huge, run-down, industrial chemical plant. 
The plant is approximately 700,000 square feet.
It's in shambles. Ashy. Ghostly. Burnt.
Bruce parks his car in the middle of the lot.
He stares at the plant with piercing eyes.
PIERCING SCREAMS
Bounce around in his head. An explosion. The sound of a roaring fire.
Bruce is lost in his own head.
INT. LAWYER'S OFFICE-DAY
Bruce sits across from an overweight lawyer by the name of RICK BOWEN.
Rick flips through some legal documents as Bruce stares into space. Rick speaks in a Southern drawl.
Rick
Well, Bruce. Let me just first say how very sorry I am for your loss. Your father was a great man. A dear friend of mine, as you know.
Bruce
Thank you, but I'm in a bit of a hurry. Will this take long?
Rick shakes his head.
Rick
No, sir. And I completely understand.
Rick signs a piece of paper.
Rick
It's a mighty fine piece of land that you're inheriting. Take care of it.
Bruce
I'm selling it.
Rick stares up from the paper with utter seriousness.
Rick
Selling it?
Bruce
That's right.
Rick clears his throat uncomfortably.
Rick
Well, I guess I can understand that. A lot of upkeep on an old place like that. I guess you just don't have the time to keep it up, huh?
Rick hands Bruce a paper. 
Bruce snatches it from his hand.
Bruce
That's right.
Bruce signs the papers.
Rick
I guess you're pretty busy lookin' for a new job, huh?
Bruce
What?
Rick
With the chemical spill. At the plant. It's a shame how you and so many other folks lost their jobs over the plant's bad decisions.
Bruce shoots up from his chair in a rage.
Bruce
Fuck my job! People lost their lives!
Rick backs down slightly.
Bruce
People who weren't there try to understand what went on that day. I was there. The stench of burning, seared flesh. Men I just spoke to burnt beyond recognition. Men with families. Mutilated. You have no fucking idea what happened that day!
Rick
Now just calm down, Bruce...
Bruce
We're here for business. Not to be chummy. 
Rick holds his hands up in an attempt to calm Bruce down.
Rick
You're right, Bruce. You're absolutely right. I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
Bruce nods his head.
Rick
Why don't you take a seat and let's talk business.
Bruce hesitates.
Rick motions towards the chair.
Rick
That's the end of that. Only business from now on.
Bruce slowly sits in the chair.
Ext. Country side-day
A car weaves down a long and narrow road surrounded by farmland.
The sun beats down on the surroundings with impenetrable heat.
Int. Car-day
Bruce steers the car down the road. Ronnie sits in the backseat and stares out the window. Marilyn stares straight ahead from the passenger seat...
...she turns to Bruce.
MarilyN
Are you sure you want to do this?
Bruce studies Marilyn.
Bruce
Am I sure?
Ronnie peers over at Bruce.
MarilyN
Do you really think you have the right to do this?
Bruce
The right? He left it to me.
MarilyN
I don't think his intentions would have been the same if he knew you were gonna sell it.
Bruce
Doesn't matter. Too many bad memories.
Marilyn takes a deep breath.
MarilyN
You don't think you'll regret this in the future?
Bruce
Regret it? Why the hell would I?
Marilyn sighs.
Bruce
What the hell's that supposed to mean?
Marilyn waves Bruce off.
MarilyN
Forget I said anything. Just drive, Bruce. Just drive.
In the backseat, a tear drips from Ronnie's eye.
Ext. Farm-day
A modest, old, but well-kept farmhouse. A large, inviting porch sits in front. Two rocking chairs gently rock in the breeze. 
Behind the house, large, fenced-in pastures house a few old horses. Behind the pastures is a stretch of woods as far as the eyes can see.
A large, dilapidated barn rots about thirty feet away from the farmhouse.
A car slowly pulls up to the house.
Bruce, Marilyn, and Ronnie step out. They gaze up at the farmhouse.
A sadness flickers in Bruce's eyes.
Ronnie
Wow.
Bruce chokes back tears.
Bruce
Jesus.
Bruce falls to his knees.
Ronnie runs to his side.
Marilyn rolls her eyes.
Ronnie
You okay?
Bruce
Yeah.
Bruce slowly rises.
Bruce
Yeah, fine.
Ronnie
How long since you've been here?
Bruce
Twenty four years.
PASTURE
The horses munch on the grass.
FARMHOUSE
MarilyN
You know it hasn't been that long.
Bruce shoots Marilyn a suspicious glare.
Ronnie
Dad, I'm gonna go see the horses.
Bruce
Just don't go past the fence.
Ronnie
Okay.
Ronnie shuffles towards the wire fence surrounding the pasture.
Bruce
How long has it been, Marilyn? Huh?
Marilyn shrugs with a grin.
Bruce
Why would I lie?
MarilyN
I can think of a few reasons.
Marilyn strokes an emerald necklace hanging from her neck and strolls up to the house.
Bruce shakes his head, walks to the car, and takes a sign out of the trunk.
He stomps the ground and impales it with the sign.
It's a FOR SALE sign.
Int. Farmhouse-living room-night
Ronnie sits inches away from the television. The local news is on. Ronnie watches with immense fascination.
The front door shuts. Bruce strolls in and glances at the TV. A local newscaster jabbers on about the current local event.
Bruce
I thought I told you not to watch that crap.
Ronnie turns towards Bruce.
Ronnie
But Dad...
Bruce
But nothing. It's not good for you. 
Ronnie sighs and changes the channel.
Bruce
I don't know why I let you bring the damn TV anyway. 
Ronnie
What else...?
Bruce
There's alot of stuff to be done around this house. Lots of work. It doesn't leave too much time for loafing around.
Smoke billows in from underneath the door. 
Bruce sniffs the air.
Bruce
Christ.
Bruce stomps towards the door, opens it, and shuts it behind him.
Ronnie waits a second...and flips the channel back to the news.
Int. Farmhouse-kitchen-seconds later
Marilyn slaves over the stove. Smoke pours out from the oven.
MarilyN
Shit!
Bruce stomps into the kitchen.
Bruce
What the hell are you doing?
MarilyN
Cooking dinner like always.
Bruce
Burning dinner's more like it. Here.
Bruce walks to the oven.
Bruce
Move.
Marilyn steps out of the way. Bruce opens the oven. 
A charred black casserole smokes profusely.
Bruce
Shit, Marilyn.
Bruce slips on an oven mitt and grabs the casserole from the oven. 
He sets it on top of the stove.
Bruce
How'd you manage to do that?
MarilyN
Well, maybe if you had been helping, it wouldn't have happened.
Bruce
You're right. It wouldn't have.
Bruce takes a deep breath.
Bruce
It's okay. There's a pizza place in town. We'll just go there.
Marilyn sneers at Bruce.
MarilyN
I've lost my appetite.
Marilyn storms out of the kitchen. 
Bruce sighs and walks to the window. 
He peers out at the horses on the pasture. They're sleeping soundly.
Int. Pizza parlor-night
A family owned pizza joint. Families eat greasy pizzas at the red and white checkered tables.
Bruce and Ronnie eat silently at one of the tables.
Ronnie stares out the window as he chews his pizza.
Bruce studies him.
Bruce
You know, Ronnie...
Ronnie peers up at Bruce.
Bruce
I feel like we haven't talked lately.
Ronnie
About what?
Bruce
I don't know. Things. Things that may be bothering you. Things about me and your mother.
Ronnie puts his slice down.
Ronnie
I don't wanna talk about it.
Bruce
Sometimes...Jesus, I feel like a hypocrite saying this, but...sometimes, the best thing to do when something's bothering us is to talk about it.
Ronnie gazes out the window.
Bruce
It's just...your Mom and I are having some difficulties right now. That doesn't mean...
Bruce trails off. Ronnie locks eyes with Bruce...
...a staring match ensues...
...Bruce uncomfortably breaks away...
...diverts his gaze out the window.
Bruce
Things will work out is all I'm trying to say, okay?
Bruce flags the WAITRESS down.
Waitress
Check?
Bruce
I just need a pie to go with pepperoni and onions. And the check.
Waitress
No problem, darlin'.
Ronnie stares at Bruce in disbelief...
...Bruce turns and sees the look in Ronnie's eyes.
Bruce
What? Your mother's gotta eat, too.
Ronnie
I need to use the restroom.
Ronnie quickly rises from his chair.
Int. Pizza parlor-bathroom-night
Ronnie rushes into the bathroom...
...paces the floor...
...breathing at the speed of a race car...
...takes a deep breath...
...rushes into the stall.
He shuts the door and locks it.
Int. Pizza parlor-night
Bruce stares out the window in deep thought...
...glances at his watch...
Int. Pizza parlor-bathroom-night
Ronnie sits on the toilet seat...
...beet red face...
...bulging veins...
...eyes dripping tears...
...he gasps in pain...
...as he runs a sharp, jagged shard of glass along the bottom of his forearm.
Blood drips on the bathroom floor.
He twists the glass in his wound...
...cries out in agony...
...tosses the glass to the floor...
A loud knock at the door.
Ronnie freezes.
Bruce (O.S.)
Ronnie, you alright?
Ronnie wipes the tears away and regains his composure.
Ronnie
Yeah.
Int. Pizza parlor-hall-night
Bruce stands at the bathroom door with a pizza box in his hand.
Bruce
We should get going. Your mother will start to worry.
Int. Pizza parlor-bathroom-night
Ronnie
Coming.
Ronnie takes his shoe off and pulls off his sock.
Bruce (O.S.)
I'll meet you at the car, okay?
Ronnie nods.
Ronnie
Okay.
Ronnie stretches the sock thin...
...ties it around his forearm...
...grabs his flannel shirt from behind him...
...slips it on and walks out of the stall.
Int. farmhouse-living room-night
Bruce and Ronnie walk through the front door.
Bruce
Marilyn, we're home!
Bruce tosses his keys on the table.
Bruce
Marilyn?
Silence.
Bruce peers down at Ronnie.
Bruce
You should get some sleep. There's alot of work to be done in the morning.
Ronnie nods softly and shuffles through the living room.
Int. Farmhouse-kitchen-night
Bruce cracks the kitchen door open.
Bruce
Marilyn?
The burnt dinner remains on the stove.
Bruce
Jesus Christ.
Bruce stomps across the kitchen.
Bruce (loudly)
Couldn't even be bothered to clean up, could you?
Bruce opens the trash can.
Dumps the charred meal in.
Int. Farmhouse-bedroom-night
Bruce cracks the door open.
The bedroom's completely dark...
...a sliver of moonlight shines across the bed. 
Marilyn's wrapped underneath the covers sleeping soundly.
Int. farmhouse-living room-night
Bruce sits on the couch and kicks off his shoes.
He lays down and drapes a heavy blanket over himself.
He reaches for the lamp and switches it off.
Darkness envelopes the room.
Bruce sighs, closes his eyes, and drifts off to sleep.
Int. Farmhouse-living room-day
A loud rapping at the front door.
Bruce jolts up from the couch.
The knock at the front door resumes.
Bruce rubs his sleepy eyes.
Bruce
Who is it?
Tom (O.S.)
Bruce. It's me. Tom Waxhaw from across the way.
Tom speaks with a heavy Southern accent.
Bruce
What do you want? 
Tom (O.S.)
It's about your horses. I think you better open the door.
Bruce groans.
Bruce
Coming.
Bruce stumbles to the front door...
...stubs his toe on the foot of the table.
Bruce
Shit!
Bruce grabs his toe.
Tom (O.S.)
You alright in there?
Bruce
Yeah. Shit.
Bruce looks at his red toe.
Behind the couch, the bedroom door opens. Marilyn fills the doorway, half awake and visibly perturbed.
MarilYN
What the hell's going on? Who's at the door?
Bruce
Tom Waxhaw.
Tom (O.S.)
Yep.
MarilyN
What does he want?
Bruce
Something about the horses.
Bruce hobbles to the front door.
As soon as he opens the front door, Marilyn closes the bedroom door.
TOM WAXHAW, an overweight farmer type strapped in overalls and donned with a straw hat, literally fills the doorframe.
Tom
Bruce.
Tom sticks his hand out.
Tom
Been awhile.
Bruce peers down at Tom's hand. It's caked with dried mud.
Bruce
What is it?
Tom
Look, first things first. I wanted to apologize for your Daddy's untimely death. He was a good man...
Bruce
Yeah, people keep saying that.
Tom grins uncomfortably.
Tom
Well, he was always real good to me.
Bruce
Again, what is it?
Tom
Fair enough. I think you better see this. Why don't ya' throw on your shoes?
Ext. Farm-backyard-day
Tom and Bruce stroll across the backyard.
Tom
I was just making my morning rounds when I came back here to check on the horses. I usually do that last. You had breakfast yet?
Bruce
No.
Tom nods and wraps his arm around Bruce's shoulders.
Tom
Good.
Ext. Field-day
Bruce and Tom approach a buzz of flies.
Bruce stops dead in his tracks.
Bruce
Jesus Christ.
Tom spits a load of tobacco juice.
Tom
Ain't it a damn sight. I'm real sorry about that, Bruce. Must have happened overnight.
Bruce grips his stomach and vomits.
Tom pats him on the back.
Tom
My first reaction, too.
Bruce glances over at his object of disgust.
The two horses are cut in half. 
Guts spilled on to the field.
Intestines draped over their bodies.
Swarms of flies gnaw at the carcasses.
Bruce
What could have done this?
Tom
Hard to figure. Lots of wild animals out in these woods. I reckon a pack of 'em could have wandered and decided they found a late night snack.
Bruce catches his breath...
...lost in thought.
Bruce
What kind of animal?
Tom
Could have been coyotes.
Bruce
You think coyotes would have the precision to slice them right across the chest?
Tom shrugs.
Tom
I don't know. Didn't think that far, I reckon.
Bruce
It wasn't coyotes.
Bruce regains his composure and stands up.
Tom
Whatever it is, I've been real nervous about it. Hell, these animals find food somewhere, they're willin' to go a little farther for their next meal.
Tom spits tobacco juice.
Tom
And I ain't that far from ya'.
A door creaks open.
Bruce spins around.
Ronnie leans out the back door.
Bruce
Ronnie, get inside!
Ronnie
What's...?
Bruce
Now!
Ronnie hesitates...
...then slowly goes back in the house.
Bruce turns to Tom.
Bruce
No matter to me.
Tom
What's that supposed to mean?
Bruce
You see the sign out front?
Tom
Yeah. I was wondering...
Bruce
That's what I mean.
Tom glares at Bruce.
Tom
Oh, I see how it's gonna be.
Bruce
Do you? That's good. Then get rid of these horses immediately. I have a lot of work to do around here. Not nearly enough time to deal with this mess.
Tom
Oh, but I do?
Bruce jabs his finger in Tom's chest.
Bruce
You listen to me. As you said, my father's treated you well. He pays you to tend to this farm. And until this god forsaken place is sold, you're obligated to do just that.
Bruce stomps away.
Bruce
Get rid of it!
Ext. Barn-day
Bruce kicks the barn doors open.
They creak as they swing open to reveal...
...a dirty, chaotic mess. 
Hay and rotten wood are strewn across the floor.
Mice scurry for safety through holes in the ground.
Bruce
I guess the farm didn't include the barn, Tom?
Bruce walks in...
...kicks a rotten piece of wood to the side...
...rubs his sweaty forehead...
...sighs...
Bruce
Should be fun.
Ext. Barn-day
Bruce props a ladder against the side of the barn.
He puts one foot on the bottom rung and begins his ascent to the roof.
Ext. Barn-day
Bruce pokes his head over the side of the roof.
Masses of leaves, sticks, and various other remnants of nature plug the rain gutters.
Bruce pulls a wad of the crap out...
...roaches and other bugs scurry out from underneath and  across the roof.
Bruce yelps.
Bruce
Jesus!
Ext. Roof-barn-day
Bruce sweats profusely as he yanks wads of jammed leaves out of the gutters.
He takes a deep breath and lays on his back...
...gazes up at the clear blue sky...
...peaceful, calm...
...his eyes flutter shut...
Ext. Barn(flashback)-day
Bruce, eight years old, struggles as he carries a bale of hay from the barn.
He drops it to the ground next to nearly a dozen other bales.
Dirt and hay stick to his sweaty arms.
He brushes them off frantically.
Edward (O.S.)
Bruce!
Bruce glances up.
Bruce's father, EDWARD SPENCE, hollers from the house.
Edward
That's all you've gotten, boy?!?
Young Bruce
They're itching me!
Edward
Just because they're itching you doesn't mean it doesn't need to be done. Now get on.
Young Bruce
Yes, sir.
Bruce shuffles back into the barn... 
...grabs a bale of hay with a grunt...
...as he walks through the barn doors, he freezes. 
His eyes widen as he gazes out onto the field...
...the bale drops to the ground...
...he slowly steps backwards...
OUT ON THE FIELD
The forest hugs the outskirts of the field.
An albino, nude, pole-thin, eerie FIGURE stands motionless near the trees...
...watching Bruce...
...staring...
...creepily still...
...too far away to make out whether the figure's human, but it sure doesn't appear human.
The trees sway in the breeze behind the creature...
Ext. Barn-day
The wind blows Bruce's hair as he naps.
He shoots up, panting and panicked.
He takes in his surroundings...
...takes a deep breath...
...rubs his sweaty face.
Bruce smirks.
Bruce
Still afraid of monsters, Bruce?
Bruce looks out over the field.
He lingers on the same spot where he saw the creature standing as a child.
The trees sway in the breeze.
Ext. Farmhouse-day
Ronnie paints over the peeling paint on the back of the house.
Bruce ambles up.
Bruce
How's it goin'?
Ronnie shoots his father a disapproving glance.
Bruce
That good, huh?
Ronnie
I hate painting.
Bruce sits on the lawn.
Bruce
Yeah, well...paint hates you, too.
Ronnie
Ha, ha.
ON THE PASTURE
Tom and another MAN load the dead horse on to the back of an old truck.
FARMHOUSE
Ronnie slathers the paint on sloppily.
Bruce
Make sure it looks good. Otherwise, you'll be doing it again.
Bruce stands.
Bruce
And the only thing worse than doing something you hate is having to do it twice.
Bruce walks away.
Ronnie sneers at him.
Ronnie
Thanks for the advice.
Ronnie throws the paintbrush to the ground and lays on the lawn.
Int. Farmhouse-kitchen-day
Marilyn sits at the kitchen table and reads a book.
Bruce walks in.
Marilyn peers up from her book...
...then sticks her nose back in the book.
MarilyN
How's it going?
Bruce
It's going. Should take another week or so, though.
MarilyN
Fabulous.
Marilyn flips the page to her book.
Bruce walks to the window and stares out...
...deep in thought...
...transfixed on the field...
...he turns his head halfway towards Marilyn...
...chuckles slightly...
MarILYN
What?
Bruce
I don't know.
Bruce stares out the window again.
Bruce
It's funny how...how certain things that maybe bothered you as a child...things you don't even think about...
MariLYN
You're rambling.
Bruce
Yeah.
Bruce laughs quietly.
Bruce
I tend to do that when I'm nervous.
MariLYN
Nervous? What are you nervous about?
Bruce
You might find this...I've never told you, but you might think it's a little crazy...
Bruce trails off and averts his gaze out the window again...
...in a trance...
...focused on the field...
MariLYN
What?
Eyes fixated on the field...
MariLYN
Trust me, the crazy thing? You've already crossed that line. I don't think whatever you tell me will make a...
Bruce cocks his head towards Marilyn.
Bruce
Let's just drop it. You wouldn't believe me anyway.
Int. Farmhouse-living room-day
Ronnie walks through...
...stops when he hears Bruce's voice...
...a muffled, inaudible voice...
Ronnie tiptoes towards the kitchen.
He presses his ear against the kitchen door.
Bruce (O.S.)
And what's that supposed to mean, huh? You know, just back off for once, why don't you? I said I didn't...
Beat.
Bruce (O.S.)
I don't wanna talk about it!
Ronnie pushes the door open...
Int. Farmhouse-kitchen-day
Ronnie
Fighting again?
Bruce and Marilyn look at Ronnie in surprise.
MariLYN
Honey, we're just talking about some...
Bruce motions with his hand for Marilyn to shush.
Bruce
No, no. Let me handle this.
Bruce walks right up to Ronnie...
...sticks his hands in his pocket...
...takes a deep breath...
Ronnie looks at Bruce in disbelief.
Ronnie
What kind of excuse are you gonna use this time?
Bruce peers back at Marilyn.
Ronnie
Because you're running out of believable ones.
Ronnie turns and stomps out of the kitchen.
Marilyn jumps from her chair after him.
Bruce holds his arm out.
Bruce
Just let him go.
MarilYN
Oh yeah, Bruce. You really handled that, didn't you?
Bruce
I'll talk to him later!
Bruce takes a deep breath...
...calms himself down.
Bruce
He needs some time alone right now.
Int. Farmhouse-living room-night
Ronnie sits on the floor staring at...
...the flashing television.
Bruce saunters in behind Ronnie with a newspaper in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other.
Ronnie turns towards Bruce...
...studies him.
Bruce takes a seat on the couch, sighs, and flips the paper open.
He peers over his paper at Ronnie.
They lock eyes.
Ronnie averts his attention back to the television.
Marilyn walks in. She's wearing a nightgown.
MarilYN
I'm going to bed.
Bruce peers back at Marilyn, then back to his paper.
MarilYN
Ronnie, I love you.
Ronnie stares at the television, ignoring Marilyn.
Marilyn's lips tremble...
...she stifles her emotions...
MarilyN
Goodnight.
Bruce
See ya later.
Marilyn shuffles sadly back to the bedroom.
Ronnie
Dad?
Bruce looks up from his paper.
Bruce
Hmm?
Ronnie and Bruce lock eyes.
Ronnie
Are you...okay?
They stare deep into each other's eyes...
...looking for the answer to each other's sadness...
Bruce
Why don't you go brush your teeth? It's late. 
Int. Farmhouse-bathroom-night
Ronnie vigorously brushes his teeth.
Bruce stands at the door waiting.
Ronnie spits and rinses.
Bruce
Don't forget to floss.
Ronnie
Dad.
Bruce
Brushing and flossing go hand in hand.
Ronnie scoffs.
Ronnie
What are you? A dentist?
Bruce
No. I'm your father.
Bruce points to the medicine cabinet.
Bruce
It's up there.
Ronnie sighs and reaches for the medicine cabinet...
...his sleeve pulls down slightly when he stretches his arm up...
...revealing a plethora of scratches and gashes just above his elbow.
Bruce's eyes widen at the shocking display of self mutilation.
Ronnie glances at his father...
...Bruce turns away, at a loss for words.
He walks to a side door in the hallway, opens it...
Ext. Farmhouse-night
...and steps outside. 
Int. Farmhouse-bathroom-night
Ronnie watches his father walk through the backyard.
He peers down at his mutilated arm.
Ext. Farmhouse-night
The wind blows furiously.
Bruce hugs his chest and rubs his arms as his teeth chatter.
He gazes out over the pasture...
...the moonlight soaks the grass...
...his eyes travel further down the pasture...
...and stop at the forest beyond...
...the wind tears through the trees...
...the rustling leaves crackle under the breeze...
...making it appear as if things are moving between the trees...
Ronnie (O.S.)
Dad?
Bruce jumps.
Bruce
Jesus, Ronnie. Don't sneak up on me like that.
Ronnie
Sorry. 
Bruce
You ready?
Int. Farmhouse-guest bedroom-night
Ronnie climbs into the bed and under the covers.
Bruce sits at the edge of the bed.
Bruce
Warm enough?
Ronnie nods with a yawn.
Ronnie
I forgot to tell you, though.
Ronnie points at the windows.
Ronnie
The windows blew open twice last night. I think the lock's busted.
Bruce
Really?
Bruce walks to the window and jiggles the lock.
Bruce
Looks okay.
Bruce gazes out the window...
...he stares out in a trance...
...sounds of wind gusts echo in his head...
Ronnie
Dad?
Bruce quickly turns...
Bruce
Sorry.
Bruce walks to the bed and rubs Ronnie's head.
Bruce
Get some sleep.
Bruce cuts the lamp light off.
Int. Farmhouse-living room-night
Bruce enters the dimly lit living room.
He peers at the crack underneath Marilyn's bedroom door...
...a light escapes from underneath.
Bruce knocks softly...
...the light shuts off.
Bruce hangs his head in shame.
Int. Farmhouse-stairwell-night
Bruce climbs the dusty, creaky stairs leading to the attic.
Int. Farmhouse-attic-night
Bruce groans as he struggles to push open the door...
...the door swings open and Bruce enters.
He searches for the light bulb switch and pulls.
Dull light illuminates the attic.
The attic is a small, creepy, makeshift room. An old bed and chest of drawers are covered with clear plastic tarps.
Thick layers of dust cover every inch of the attic.
Bruce drifts off as he stares at an old, wooden desk in the corner of the attic...
FLASHBACK(ATTIC)
Edward Spence sits at the old desk, scribbling maniacally on a sheet of paper.
Young Bruce walks in.
Young bruce
Sir?
Edward swings around to face Bruce.
Fire darts in Edward's eyes.
Edward
What do you want?
Young Bruce struggles for words.
Young bruce
I-I-I'm done with my chores. 
Edward
So?
Young bruce
So...so can I go play now?
Edward smirks.
Edward
Boy, there's always more chores to be done. This farm never sleeps.
Edward turns back to his desk...
...a crazed look in his eyes...
Edward
It never sleeps.
Edward resumes his crazed drawings.
Young bruce
What else do you want me to do?
Beat.
Young bruce
I mean...what else would you like done, sir?
Edward
Get out. That's what you can do.
Young Bruce sheepishly hangs his head and turns towards the door...
Edward
Hey.
Young Bruce turns around. Edward searches Young Bruce's eyes...
...a tinge of compassion can be seen in Edward's eyes.
He studies Young Bruce, up and down...
Edward
Nevermind. You're not ready yet.
Int. Farmhouse-attic-night
Edward (O.S.)
You're not ready yet.
Bruce stares at the old, wooden desk in the corner.
Bruce
Ready for what?
Bruce drags his feet towards the desk...
...as if he's not sure if he wants to go.
He reaches the desk and opens one of the drawers.
Billows of dust explode in the air.
Bruce coughs as he waves the dust specks away.
IN THE DESK DRAWER
Sits a ruler, some pencils, and lots of dust.
Bruce shuts the drawer and opens the next one.
Empty.
He opens the next one...
...empty.
Bruce
Shit.
A loud, high-pitched screech echoes outside.
Bruce jumps at the wild, animal-like sound.
Bruce
Jesus.
Another high-pitched screech joins in...
...then another...
...as if a communication has begun.
Quiet...
...Bruce creeps to the window and peers out.
The moonlight shines over the pasture. The trees blow sway in the wind.
Crickets chirp.
Bruce searches the pasture from left to right...
...inch by inch...a figure stands in the pasture...
...gazing up at the house...
Bruce jumps back from the window and gasps. 
He holds his hand to his mouth in horror...
...takes a deep breath...
Bruce
Okay, Bruce. The moonlight's playin' tricks on you. 
Bruce takes a deep breath...
...steps up to the window...
...peers out...
The pasture's empty.
Int. Farmhouse-closet-night
Bruce pulls the string to the overhead light bulb.
A dim light pulses.
Bruce kneels down, pulls up a wooden plank, and pulls a metal box out.
He opens it. A gun rests inside.
He pulls the gun out...
...opens the chamber...
...two bullets inside...
Ext. Farmhouse-night
Bruce walks on to the front porch, gun in hand.
He looks to the left...
...to the right.
The only sound in the air is the crickets chirping.
Ext. Farmhouse-night
Bruce rounds the corner of the farmhouse.
The pasture laid out in front of him.
He stares at the woods...the trees sway in the wind...
...taunting him...
Ext. Farmhouse-night
Bruce ambles up the hill towards the front of the farmhouse...
...he stops dead in his tracks as he passes an open window.
Ronnie's bedroom window.
Bruce
Shit. Ronnie!
Bruce climbs in through the window...
Int. Farmhouse-ronnie's bedroom-night
Ronnie shoots up from the bed, scared out of his mind.
Bruce flips the light on.
Ronnie rubs his eyes and groans.
Ronnie
Jesus, Dad.
Bruce runs to Ronnie's side and places his hands on Ronnie's shoulders.
Bruce
Are you okay?
Ronnie pulls away.
Ronnie
I was okay. 
Ronnie peers at the open window.
Ronnie
Why are you climbing through the window?
Bruce stands up.
Ronnie
Were you outside? What were you doing outside?
Bruce
I'm sorry for waking you.
Ronnie
Why does the window keep opening?
Int. Farmhouse-ronnie's bedroom-night
Bruce hammers a nail into the window pane.
Bruce
Okay. That should do it.
Bruce turns around.
Ronnie snores as he sleeps soundly.
Bruce cracks a grin.
Bruce
That should do.
Int. Farmhouse-hallway-night
Bruce is slumped against the outside of the door to Ronnie's bedroom.
His eyes heavy...
...slowly closing...
...his hand holding the gun slowly unclenches...
...a light snore escapes from his lips...
Int. Farmhouse-hallway-day
A hand reaches for Bruce's shoulder. Shakes him to life.
Bruce jumps in surprise.
Bruce
Huh?
Bruce groggily peers up. Marilyn stands over him.
Bruce rubs his sleepy eyes.
Bruce
What time is it?
MarilyN
What the hell are you doing?
Bruce
What?
Bruce looks down. The gun lays beside him.
Bruce gathers the gun and quickly stands.
Bruce
Oh, uh...nothing. Just...fell asleep.
MarilYN
Fell asleep?
Bruce
Mmm-hmm.
MarilyN
What's with the gun?
Bruce
Oh this?
Bruce looks at the gun.
Bruce
I, uh...thought I heard something last night. Went outside to check it out.
MarilYN
And fell asleep at Ronnie's door?
Bruce bites his tongue.
MarilYN
You should have been up hours ago.
Marilyn stomps off.
Bruce groans...
...knocks at Ronnie's door.
Ronnie (O.S.)
What?
Bruce
Get up. We're behind schedule.
Int. Farmhouse-bathroom-night
Bruce brushes his teeth vigorously.
The overhead light flickers heavily.
Bruce stops and peers up at the light.
Bruce
Fucking wires. 
Bruce spits in the sink.
Ext. Farmhouse-roof-day
Ronnie and Bruce pulls huge wads of leaves and debris from the rain gutters.
They're on separate ends with their backs facing each other.
Ronnie
Dad?
Bruce
Yeah?
Ronnie
Why don't you ever talk about the accident at the plant?
Bruce turns towards Ronnie.
Bruce
Why are you suddenly asking questions?
Ronnie shrugs.
Ronnie
I don't know. Do you ever wonder how things would be different? You know, if it hadn't happened?
Bruce
What? Like between me and your mother?
Ronnie nods weakly.
Bruce
Things happen for a reason, Ronnie. We have no place questioning...
Ronnie
Don't you ever ask why Grandma died?
Bruce's face flares with emotion.
He stands.
Bruce
What did you say?
Ronnie faces Bruce and hesitates.
His lips quiver in fear.
Ronnie
They never found out who killed her. Don't you ever...?
Bruce stomps towards Ronnie.
Ronnie cowers back in fear.
Bruce grips Ronnie's collar.
Bruce
Don't you ever mention her again. You understand?
Tears escape from Ronnie's eyes.
Bruce's face is beet red.
Bruce
She is not to be mentioned again! You understand me?!?
Ronnie
What about Mom?
Bruce and Ronnie lock eyes...
...staring deep into each other's souls...
...Bruce takes a deep breath...
...loosens his grip on Ronnie.
Bruce
You finish up here. 
Bruce stomps across the roof.
Ronnie watches him go...catches his breath...
Bruce stomps down the ladder to the ground.
Ronnie watches Bruce walk towards the pasture.
Ronnie kicks at the roof furiously.
Ext. Pasture-day
Bruce crosses the huge pasture.
He peers back at the farmhouse.
Ronnie's figure can be seen on top of the roof, but very small from the distance.
Bruce inches closer to the woods. The trees whisper to him.
He peers back at the farmhouse...
...it's like a dollhouse in size now.
Bruce hesitates...
...takes a deep breath...
...and enters into the woods...
Ext. Woods-day
Damp leaves soak the ground. 
Thick trees obscure sight.
Crickets chirp.
Bruce searches through the thick brush with his eyes.
Bruce
Show yourself.
Bruce searches...
Bruce
Show yourself, damnit!
Ext. Farmhouse-roof-day
Ronnie stares off in a deep trance...
...watching the woods...
Ext. Woods-day
Bruce slowly walks further into the trees.
He pulls branches and tangles out of his path.
Ext. Farmhouse-roof-day
Ronnie stands over the edge of the roof...
...his arms extended out...
...his toes hang off the end...
...he wobbles...
...takes a deep breath...
...closes his eyes...
EXT. WOODS-DAY
A high pitched hissing sound...
...as if a warning...
Bruce stops dead in his tracks. 
Eyes peeled back.
Bruce
Who's there?
Another hissing...and yet another...
Bruce
Who's there?!?
Ronnie (O.S.)
Dad?
Bruce spins around.
Ronnie stands behind him. 
Bruce breathes quickly and heavily.
Ronnie
Who are you talking to?
Bruce
You shouldn't be here.
Ronnie
Why?
Bruce
You heard me. Get in the house.
Ronnie turns and shuffles towards the house.
Ronnie
Mom said she needed you.
Bruce
What?
Ronnie
Mom needs you.
Bruce
Tell her...I'll be there in a minute.
Int. Farmhouse-kitchen-day
Marilyn sits at the table and leafs through a book.
Bruce enters and leans against the counter.
Bruce
You needed me?
MarilyN
Not anymore.
Bruce
Ronnie said...
Marilyn sets her book down. Her eyebrows raised.
Bruce averts his eyes toward the ground.
Bruce
Oh. 
Bruce cracks a slight grin and chuckles.
Bruce
Okay.
Int. Farmhouse-dining room-night
Bruce sits at the dining room table.
He's deep in thought...fingers stroking his chin...
Flashback
Young Bruce, Edward, and CAROL SPENCE, Bruce's mother, sit at the table.
Edward mutters to himself as he picks at his food.
Carol appears visibly disturbed.
Young Bruce simply watches his father in shock.
Carol tosses her fork on her plate.
Carol
Edward, I won't have your mindless jibbering at the table. 
Carol stands.
Edward continues to mumble to himself...
...lost deeply in his own world.
His eyes are black and emotionless.
Carol
Edward?!?
Young Bruce watches his parents...
Edward
They're here. They're here. I can hear them.
Carol
Edward, you're scaring us!
Young Bruce jumps from his chair.
Young bruce
Why don't you just leave him alone?!?
Carol gazes at Young Bruce in shock.
Carol
Bruce, I...
Young bruce
Just leave him alone.
Carol
Leave him alone? Do you know what you're father's been writing up in that attic?
Young Bruce peers down at the ground.
Carol smirks.
Carol
I didn't think so. No, the last thing your father needs is to be left alone, Bruce. Your father needs to be admitted to a hospital.
Young bruce
You don't know what you're talking about.
Carol
Don't I? Your father seems to think...
Carol stops herself.
Carol
Let's just say your father isn't thinking straight.
Edward stands up and stomps from the dining room.
Carol
Edward?
Carol chases after him.
Carol (O.S.)
Edward! I'll burn that godforsaken book if you don't stop!
Int. Farmhouse-dining room-night
Sudden realization washes over Bruce's expression. 
Bruce
The book.
Bruce jumps from his chair and rushes from the dining room.
Int. farmhouse-stairwell-night
Bruce pulls the light bulb string. A dim light flickers from the bulb.
Bruce slowly climbs the creaky stairs.
Int. Farmhouse-attic-night
Bruce stumbles through the dark attic. He fumbles with the light bulb string...pulls it.
The light bulb shines dimly.
Bruce drops to his hands and knees.
Bruce crawls across the dusty floor...
...pulling on the wooden planks as he makes his way...
...until one plank comes loose.
Bruce pulls the plank up.
Underneath is a hollowed spot containing an old, dust covered diary.
Bruce pulls it out, blows off the thick layer of dust, and opens it.
Bruce skims a page...flips it...
...skims, flips...
...stops at a page. He scans the writing and mouths the words.
Bruce
Something lies in the woods. Something evil...it stalks us. Preys on us.
Edward (V.O.)
Watches us in the night. I have to protect my family, but the creatures are getting the better of me. They're cunning and smart. Sneaky and evil. I feel them sucking the life out of me. Haunting me. They occupy my head day and night. My family's becoming secondary. Pretty soon, I fear I'll join them.
Fearful sweat pours from Bruce's head.
The light bulb flickers.
He flips the page nervously.
He reads from the next page.
Bruce
I knew this was going to happen. Each night, they grow more and more daring. They crossed the line last night. They entered my home.
Bruce stops reading, sets the diary down, and rushes to the window.
He peers out nervously. The pasture is peaceful and serene. The moonlight shines across the grass.
Bruce returns to the diary.
Edward (V.O.)
I boarded up the doors, but they found another way. Those bastards are fuckin' with me. I could hear them sneaking through the house...communicating in that awful, high pitched screech. I think they'll come back tomorrow night. They were just scoping the place out. Figurin' out their next plan of attack.
Bruce
I have to remember who I am. My family needs me. If they only knew the grave danger they were in, they wouldn't treat me like I'm insane.  
Bruce lingers on Edward's last words...
...flips the page.
Bruce drops the diary to the floor...
...eyes widened and full of fear.
Slowly, Bruce reaches for the diary with shaky hands. He picks it up and flips back to the page...
ON THE PAGE 
An amateur drawing of a creature just underneath the writing. Certain features of the creature are pronounced: sharp fangs, large talons, a few stringy hairs poking out the head. Fierce eyes...
...sinisterly staring right back at Bruce.
BACK TO SCENE
Bruce shudders and flips the page. 
The page is blank...
...flips again...
...blank page.
He frantically flips through the rest of the book, but there are no more entries.
Bruce flips back to the last entry and looks at the date.
Scribbled across the top: JUNE 17th, 1971.
Bruce
Oh my God.
Bruce flips to the next page. The drawing of the creature...
...he flips past...
...empty page.
Int. Farmhouse-bedroom-night
Marilyn sleeps soundly under the covers.
Suddenly, Bruce rushes in. 
Bruce
Marilyn!
Bruce flips on the bedside lamp light.
He reaches for Marilyn and shakes her awake.
Bruce
Marilyn, wake up.
Marilyn grumbles as she sits up lazily.
Her eyes still closed.
MarilyN
Jesus, Bruce. What is it?
Bruce
You'll never believe this.
MariLYN
Probably not.
Bruce shakes Marilyn gently.
Bruce
No, I'm serious. Listen to me. My father didn't kill my mother.
Marilyn cracks her eyes open.
MarilYN
What?
Bruce
He didn't do it! I've got proof!
Bruce pulls the diary from his pocket.
MarilYN
What's that?
Bruce
It's my father's diary.
Bruce thumbs through the pages.
MarilYN
For the record, Bruce? I never thought your father killed your mother.
Bruce
Well, you didn't grow up with them.
Bruce stops at a page and sidles up beside Marilyn.
He points to the page.
Bruce
Look here.
Marilyn peers down at the page.
MarilyN
I knew this was going to happen. Each night, they grow closer and...
Bruce covers the written passage with his hand.
Bruce
No, no. Not that. Look at the date.
MarilyN
June 17th, 1971.
Bruce
Yeah.
Marilyn shrugs.
MariLYN
So what?
Bruce
My mother was killed on June 18th, 1971.
MarilYN
I don't get it. Even though I don't agree that your father had homicidal tendencies, that doesn't prove a thing.
Bruce
But that's the last entry. He just...stopped writing after that.
MariLYN
Okay. The argument that maybe he didn't want to incriminate himself can't be ignored.
Bruce
But if you read these pages.
Bruce stands and holds the diary as if it's a sacred artifact.
Bruce
If you knew how much my father lost of his sanity that year...
MariLYN
There you go. He went insane.
Bruce
I give up.
MariLYN
What?
Bruce
I shouldn't talk about this any more with you. It's not safe.
Marilyn smiles.
MariLYN
You're right. 
Marilyn switches the lamp off.
Ext. Farmhouse-night
Bruce walks around the side of the farmhouse. He stops at Ronnie's window.
He inspects it...pulls up on it.
It doesn't budge. 
He steps back and gazes out over the pasture. All is calm.
Int. Farmhouse-front door-night
Bruce closes the front door behind him as he walks inside.
He locks it.
Int. Farmhouse-kitchen-night
Bruce locks the back door. He peers out the windowpane.
Bruce
You killed her. You killed her.
Bruce slams his fist against the door.
Bruce 
You fucking bastards! You fucks! You killed her! 
He slams his fist harder and slides to the ground sobbing...
...crushed and defeated.
Bruce
You killed her...
Bruce takes a deep breath...
...wipes his tears away.
Chuckles at himself.
Bruce
Get a grip on yourself, Bruce. Your family needs you now.
Bruce gathers himself together and stands up.
Strong and willful.
Int. Farmhouse-closet-night
Bruce pulls up the wooden plank. 
He takes the metal box out from underneath and pulls out the gun.
Int. farmhouse-living room-night
Bruce sits on the couch. 
The gun rests in his lap.
His head starts to roll back...
...he catches himself.
His eyes flutter...
Bruce
Goddamnit, wake up.
The grandfather clock ticks in the corner.
Bruce stares at the swinging pendulum...
...hypnotized...
FLASHBACK
Blinding white light.
Marilyn and Bruce stand against a white backdrop. 
Just him and her.
Marilyn smiles at Bruce.
Bruce looks around.
Bruce
What's going on?
MarILYN
What do you mean?
Bruce
Where am I?
MarilyN
Reach inside. You know exactly what's going on.
Marilyn reaches out with a fist and knocks against the white backdrop.
A soft knock sounds.
MariLYN
I think you better wake up.
Bruce
Wha...?
MarilYN
Wake up!
Knock, knock.
Int. Farmhouse-living room-night
Bruce's eyes are shut.
A soft knock emits from far within the depths of the house.
Bruce flinches...
...eyes flutter open...
Bruce peers around the room.
Knock, knock...
Bruce jumps from the couch. 
Grips the gun tightly...
...knock, knock...
Bruce
Who's there?
A shuffling sound.
Bruce
Tom? Is that you?
Beat.
Bruce
What do you want?
A loud BANG at the front door.
Bruce jumps.
A hissing sound comes from behind the door.
Bruce
Shit.
Bruce steadies the gun with shaky hands.
He points it towards the front door.
He slowly steps forward.
Sweat gushes from his pores.
Gun pointed.
Steps forward.
Reaches for the doorknob.
Closes his eyes.
Opens the door.
Bruce gasps for breath.
The doorway's empty.
Bruce rubs his forehead, chuckles, and breathes a sigh of relief.
Bruce
Oh God.
Ten feet directly behind Bruce in the
DINING ROOM
A figure slithers past the doorframe.
Bruce yawns...
...a sounding bump comes from within the house.
Bruce freezes...
...slowly turns around...
...the room's empty.
With gun gripped in hand, Bruce slowly creeps through the living room.
Int. Farmhouse-dining room-night
The dining room's dark.
Bruce pokes his head around the corner with his gun pointed out.
The room's empty.
Bruce slowly creeps through the dining room.
Int. Farmhouse-hallway-night
Bruce creeps down the hallway.
He stops at Ronnie's bedroom.
Quietly, he twists the doorknob.
RONNIE'S BEDROOM
Bruce pokes his head through the crack in the door.
It's dark, but Ronnie's chest can be seen going up and down with his breathing.
The room's empty.
Bruce sighs and shuts the door.
HALLWAY
Bruce grips his gun and continues down the hallway. The last door is the bathroom door on the right.
Bruce slowly creeps down the hallway.
The bathroom door is ajar.
Bruce pushes it open with his gun.
BATHROOM
Bruce freezes.
A figure sways back and forth in the bathroom.
Bruce points his gun at the figure...
...reaches for the light switch...
...flips it...
Bruce's jaw drops in horror as light floods the bathroom.
One of the creatures stands in the middle of the bathroom.
The creature's hideous.
Spots of dark, dirty, coarse hair. 
It's slimy skin is covered with scales.
It's so white it's practically transparent.
Bruce
Oh my God.
The creature hisses at Bruce...
...bares its hideous, dirty fangs.
The creature growls at Bruce and rears back like a cat...
...as if it's ready to attack.
Bruce slowly points his gun towards the creature...
...and fires.
The creature growls and leaps at Bruce, knocking him to the ground.
Bruce crashes against the wall as the creature rounds the corner and sprints down the hallway.
A trail of blood drips from Bruce's forehead.
He lazily pushes himself from the floor.
Bruce dizzily takes a step...
...the hallway's blurred. It moves up and down.
Bruce grabs the wall and pants.
He crashes against the wall.
Slides to the floor.
Passes out.
FLASHING IMAGE
The creature, up close and personal, screeches. It bares its sharp fangs. Slime drips from its mouth. 
Int. Farmhouse-hallway-night
Bruce yelps. He opens his eyes wide. 
Peers around.
Bruce
Was it a dream?
Shooting pain...
...Bruce grips his forehead and winces.
The hallway throbs with Bruce's pain.
Bruce draws back his hand...
...it's covered in blood.
Bruce
Shit.
Bruce eyes Ronnie's door.
Bruce (whisper)
Ronnie?
Bruce talks a notch higher.
Bruce
Ronnie?
Bruce
Ronnie, are you alright?
Ronnie (O.S.)
What?
Bruce
You okay?
Ronnie (O.S.)
Can't you go one night without waking me up?
Bruce
Sorry.
Bruce stands quickly.
Int. Farmhouse-kitchen-night
Bruce races to the window. He peers out upon the dark pasture.
Int. Farmhouse-living room-night
Bruce paces back and forth in a frenzy.
He bites his nails and sweats bullets.
Bruce
Okay. Let's think. If they wanted to come inside, why did they knock? They didn't actually think I'd let them in, did they? Maybe they meant to kill me...
Bruce stops...
...spits a nail out.
Continues pacing.
Bruce
No, that can't be it. They left as soon as I opened the door. Let's go back to square one. If they wanted to kill me, they would have done it already. There's probably a whole pack of those bastards out in the woods. No, no, no. They don't want me dead.
Bruce peeks out the window.
Continues pacing frantically.
Bruce
But why would they want me alive? Let's see...
Bruce stops, closes his eyes, and concentrates.
FLASHING IMAGE
The front door. A loud knock.
BACK TO SCENE
Bruce
They knocked at the door. Getting my attention...
Bruce opens his eyes.
Bruce
Getting my attention...to distract me.
FLASHING IMAGE
Bruce opens the front door.
The creature dashes through the dining room behind him.
BACK TO SCENE
Bruce
One of them snuck in through the back door. 
FLASHING IMAGE
The creature in the bathroom growls at Bruce.
BACK TO SCENE
Bruce
The one in the bathroom...snuck in through the back door, so...
FLASHING IMAGE
The front door ajar.
BACK TO SCENE
Bruce
...the others could sneak in through the front door. Holy shit. It was a distraction. From what?
Bruce freezes...
...turns his head and eyes Marilyn's bedroom door.
Bruce
Marilyn?
Bruce creeps to the door. He presses his ear against it.
Silence.
He knocks softly.
Bruce
Marilyn? Are you okay?
Bruce turns the doorknob slowly...
Int. Farmhouse-bedroom-night
Pitch black.
Crumpled blankets and pillows cover the bed.
Bruce creeps to the bed, flips on the bedside lamp, and steps back in shock.
He covers his mouth with his hand...
...the bed is empty.
Bruce
Oh no.
Bruce touches the bed.
Bruce
This can't be happening...this can't be...
Bruce slams his fist against the wall.
Bruce
Fuck!
Bruce sobs quietly.
Bruce
I couldn't protect her. I couldn't...I failed you. Fucking failed you.
Ronnie
Dad?
Bruce swings around. 
Ronnie stands in front of him.
Bruce wipes away his tears.
Bruce
Something...
Bruce stares at the ground.
Bruce
Something's happened to your mother.
Ronnie stares at his father with disbelief.
Bruce
Something took her.
Ronnie
What...?
Bruce
I know it sounds crazy, okay? I know that. But something happened last night. These...these goddamned things came into the house!
Ronnie
You've lost it. You've completely lost it.
Bruce points at Ronnie.
Bruce
You don't know what happened! You weren't there! So just shut the hell up and listen to me!
Ronnie backs down.
Bruce
I know...I know what happened.
Ronnie
You don't know shit.
Bruce
What did you say to me?
Bruce steps forward.
Bruce
Say it again.
Ronnie
You heard me.
Bruce
No. 
Ronnie
You don't know what's going on. You only think you do.
Bruce
What did you say to me?
Bruce grabs Ronnie by his collar.
Tears stream down Ronnie's face.
Ronnie
You wanna hit me? Is that it?
Bruce
Shut up.
Ronnie
No, I'm not gonna shut up. Hit me. Chickenshit, you hit her. What? You can hit a woman but not a man?
Bruce
You're not a man. You're just a boy.
Bruce drops Ronnie.
Bruce
I'm sorry. Something came over me, I...I'm just worried about your mother. I just want to protect this family. Our family.
Ronnie
It's too late for that. You already destroyed it.
Ronnie rips his shirt in half.
Deep scars and cuts cover his chest.
Bruce
Jesus.
Ronnie
I just thought you should see what you made me do.
Ronnie throws his shirt in Bruce's face.
Ronnie
For what you did to her, you son of a bitch.
Ronnie stomps away.
Int. Farmhouse-living room-night
Bruce loads the gun.
Int. Farmhouse-kitchen-night
Bruce peers out the kitchen window.
Int. Farmhouse-hallway-night
Bruce stands at Ronnie's bedroom door...
...takes a deep breath...
Knocks.
No response from the other side.
Bruce
You're not gonna talk to me, huh? 
Beat.
Bruce
Well, then how about I talk to you and you can just listen. That's all I ask. Just listen.
Bruce takes a deep breath.
Bruce
How about I'm as disappointed in myself as you are with me? I try, though. I try to be...try to be what I never had. A father that's there. And tonight, I'm going to prove to you...that I care about this family. I know you have no idea what's going on. That's alright. I'll explain it later. Right now, I have to find your mother. She needs me.
Beat.
Bruce
Just do me one favor. One favor and that's all I want right now. Just...go up to the attic and lock the door. Push the bureau in front of it. And don't make a sound. And don't open that door no matter what. I'll come get you.
Beat.
Bruce
You're my son, Ronnie.
Bruce tears up.
Bruce
You're my son.
Bruce takes a deep breath...
...and leaves the doorside.
Ext. Farmhouse-backyard-night
Bruce stands in the back yard. He studies the forest beyond him. 
Prepares himself for the task at hand.
Checks his gun for bullets.
Bruce
Okay, Bruce. This is where it ends.
Bruce walks towards the woods.
Ext. Woods-night
Bruce ducks under low hanging branches as he enters the shrouded forest.
Flashlight in one hand...gun in the other.
As he enters a clear path, he peers back at the farmhouse. It's barely visible now.
He shines the flashlight towards it, but to no avail. 
Bruce pushes forward.
Ext. creek-woods-night
A small creek snakes through the towering trees.
Water trickles down the rocks.
Bruce sets down the gun and flashlight... 
...kneels down at the creek.
He dips his hands in and pools some water into his hands.
He splashes the water across his face.
He dips his hands back in.
A high pitched screech echoes through the forest.
Bruce jumps and glances around frantically.
He slowly reaches for his gun, grips it...
...shines the flashlight from left to right, gun pointed in its trajectory.
An eerie moan echoes.
The gun shakes in Bruce's hand.
He drops the gun to the ground.
Bruce
Shit!
Bruce leans down to pick up the gun...
...a shadow casts over him.
Misty breath floats down his neck.
Bruce freezes...
Quickly, Bruce spins around and fires a round into the air...
...but nothing's there.
Bruce wipes the cold sweat from his face.
Peers down at his gun.
Chuckles softly...
...laughs harder...
...until his laugh reaches a crazed, insane pitch.
Bruce
Come on, Bruce. You seeing things now?
He laughs.
Bruce
Get your head together, man.
Takes a deep breath.
Bruce takes a few steps back, sprints, and hops across the creek.
Water splashes up his legs as his heels hit the water.
Ext. Woods-night
Trees push up practically side by side. 
Their branches heavier and fuller.
Heavy bushes crowd the spaces in between.
Bruce pushes through the heavy brush...
...his figure obscured by the dense woods.
He yanks the branches and pulls at the leaves, attempting to pave a path through.
Scratches and cuts line his face and arms.
Small trickles of dried blood dot his body.
He grunts as he pushes through.
A large branch lays across the ground...
...Bruce trips over it.
A web of vines and thorn bushes catch him...
...he struggles as he flails his arms and legs to escape...
...but he's trapped. The vines snake around his body and tighten around him.
The thorns sear through his skin.
He groans in pain.
Bruce
Marilyn!
He screams as the vines tighten...
...the thorns cutting deeper through his skin.
He rocks back and forth as he struggles...
...a white figure comes into glimpse directly ahead, but the bushes obscure it.
Bruce stops moving...
...and the creature comes into glimpse. It's ten feet in front of him.
Bruce
Jesus...
Bruce tears at the vines around his body.
Bruce
No!
The creature drools and bares it's fangs as it snakes towards Bruce.
Bruce
Fuck you! Fuck you!
Bruce spits at the creature.
The creature ducks...
...revealing a dozen or so creatures lying in wait behind him.
At the top of his lungs:
Bruce
Marilyn! Marilyn!
In the far off distance:
MarilyN (O.S.)

Bruce!
Bruce's eyes light up.
Bruce
Marilyn, I'm coming! I'm coming!
Bruce winces as he struggles to break free from the vines...
...the vines tug harder on his body. His arms pushed down beside his body.
The creatures snarl as they dart back and forth, closer towards Bruce.
A pack of animals about to attack their prey.
Bruce turns his head back...
...a dozen creatures approach him from behind.
They claw and snarl as they encircle him.
Bruce
Marilyn!
At once, the pack of creatures pounce on Bruce.
They take him down to the ground, clawing and biting ferociously.
Slowly, Bruce's eyes close.
Ext. Woods-day
Birds chirp. The sun beams through the openings of the shrouding trees.
ON THE GROUND
Bruce lays across the dirt and leaves. Scratches and dried blood all across him.
Splotches of caked dirt are dried to the blood.
He twitches...
...slowly opens his eyes to a crack.
The sun forces his eyes shut.
He groans and grips his head.
He slowly pushes himself up...
...sits down and rubs his head in agony.
He peers around at his surroundings...
...a serene scene.
The birds chirp. The sun shines. The trees waft in the breeze.
Very peaceful and calm.
FLASHBACK-LAST NIGHT
The creature ducks...
...revealing a dozen or so creatures lying in wait behind him.
At the top of his lungs:
Bruce
Marilyn! Marilyn!

Bruce's eyes light up.
Bruce
Marilyn, I'm coming! I'm coming!
BACK TO SCENE
Bruce sits in a daze...
...lost within his own head...
Bruce (whisper)
Marilyn.
Beat.
Bruce (whisper)
Marilyn.
Bruce dizzily stands up.
He peers around in a blur.
Bruce
Marilyn!
He cups his hands around his mouth.
Bruce
Marilyn!
He spins around frantically, searching the woods with his eyes.
A hushed whisper floats down the hill.
Bruce gazes up the hill.
Another hushed whisper floats to his ears.
Bruce
Marilyn.
Bruce sprints up the hill...
...he slips and falls halfway up.
He hastily pushes himself up...
...trots up the rest of the hill.
Ext. Woods-day
Bruce reaches the top of the hill.
A mass of greenery covers the ground.
Low hanging trees dangle close to the ground.
Monstrous trees hover above.
By sight, no one's been up here in a long, long time.
Bruce
Marilyn?
Bruce cautiously takes a few steps forward.
Bruce
Marilyn?
Bruce freezes in his tracks.
Under the shrubbery about ten feet up ahead, the hump of a figure is hidden. 
Bruce
Is that you?
Bruce slowly approaches.
Bruce
Marilyn?
Bruce steps up to the figure. His eyes widen as he gazes down.
Sticking out from the side of the shrubbery is a human skeletal hand.
Bruce
Jesus.
Bruce gazes across the forest laid out behind him.
It's a jungle.
He peers back down at the figure.
Bruce
Okay.
Bruce kneels down.
Bruce
Okay. 
He takes a deep breath, leans over the shrubbery, and parts the plants in half.
Bruce
Fuck!
Bruce falls back to the ground with a crash.
He stares at the human skeleton in shock.
A snake slithers from the skeleton's eye socket.
Bruce grabs a stick and pokes at the snake.
Bruce
Get outta here!
The snake hisses at Bruce.
Bruce
I said get...!
Bruce stomps on the snake.
It smashes to the ground.
Bruce digs his heel into the middle, cutting the snake in half.
He kicks it the side.
He leans back over the shrubbery.
The skeleton's head pokes out from the shrubs.
Bruce takes a deep breath...
...and parts the shrubbery fully.
Draped around the skeleton's neck is an emerald necklace.
Bruce stares at the necklace...
...tranced...
...emotionally dead...
His eye twitches.
The emerald necklace GLISTENS.
Bruce falls to the ground...
Bruce
No, no, no. It's not there. She's...she's just not there. It can't be.
Bruce stares at the skeleton...
Bruce
She's not there.
Bruce grips his head, closes his eyes, and winces in concentration.
Bruce
She's not. It's not true.
Slowly, the skeleton dissolves from the feet up as Bruce talks to himself.
Bruce peers up...
...the skeleton is gone.
Ext. Woods-day
Bruce walks through the woods in a daze.
Ext. Woods-day
The farm is in sight.
Bruce gazes past the pasture.
Ext. Pasture-day
Bruce strolls through the pasture.
Ext. Barn-day
Bruce struggles with the lock on the barn door.
He groans as he yanks it with all his might...
...it snaps open.
The doors creak open to reveal the darkened barn.
Bruce grabs a flashlight hanging on the wall.
Int. Barn-day
Bruce shines the flashlight.
He tosses hay and boxes out of the way as he searches for something.
He gazes up at the farm tools.
Sweat pours from his forehead...
...he grunts...
...leans over and vomits.
Hanging on the wall is a blood stained axe.
Dried guts cling to the blade.
Int. Farm-day
Bruce slowly opens the front door.
He's pale and ghastly.
Bruce (shakily)
Ronnie?
Int. farmhouse-attic-day
Dust particles float through the small ray of sunlight that shines through the window.
Someone climbs the stairs to the attic.
The doorknob turns...
...Bruce enters.
Bruce
Ronnie?
Bruce glances around the room.
He leans down and peers under the bed.
Bruce
Ronnie?
He stands and searches the room with his eyes.
It's ghostly quiet and empty.
Int. Farmhouse-living room-day
Bruce looks around the living room as he walks through.
Int. Farmhouse-kitchen-day
Bruce peers into the kitchen from the doorway.
Empty.
Int. Farmhouse-dining room-night
Bruce cautiously steps through the dining room.
Int. Hallway-day
Bruce stops at Ronnie's door.
He swallows hard.
Bruce
Ronnie?
Hesitantly, Bruce forms a fist and holds it at the door.
Bruce
Ronnie?
He taps lightly on the door.
Bruce
Ronnie, I need to talk to you.
Bruce shakes his head.
Bruce
I just need to see that you're okay.
He knocks on the door harder.
Bruce
Ronnie, it's your father. Please open this door.
Beat.
Bruce
Ronnie, open this door!
Bruce grips the doorknob and jerks.
Bruce
Ronnie!
Bruce stands back and kicks the door open.
He freezes...
...jaw drops...
...eyes wide as saucers...
He falls to the floor.
RONNIE'S BEDROOM
Ronnie lays across the bed.
Pale. Still.
Drenched in blood.
His arms laid out beside him. Jesus Christ Pose.
His wrists slit.
Bruce
No.
Bruce runs to Ronnie's side.
Tears fall as he strokes Ronnie's head.
Bruce
Ronnie...
Bruce leans in closer.
Bruce
Ronnie...talk to me.
Beat.
Bruce
Say something! Ronnie, talk to me! Talk to your father!
Bruce breaks down. He buries his head in Ronnie's chest and wails.
Tears pour.
Muffled:
Bruce 
You're my son. You're my son.
Ext. Woods-day
The empty spot where the skeleton was laying.
Slowly, the skeleton reappears...
...from the toes up.
Int. Farmhouse-ronnie's bedroom-day
Bruce grips his dead son's body and wails at the top of his lungs. 
Veins pop from his forehead. His face is beet red.
The screams are blood-curdling.
FLASHING IMAGES
Single photos, quickly flipped through one by one by somebody's hand.
Bruce and Marilyn kissing at their wedding.
Bruce and Marilyn at the hospital. Baby Ronnie in Marilyn's arm. Beaming smiles.
Ronnie as a toddler rides his tricycle.
Bruce, Marilyn, and Ronnie(eight years old) smile from a restaurant table.
Blank photo.
Blank photo.
Blank photo.
BACK TO SCENE
Bruce sobs uncontrollably into his dead son's shirt.
Bruce
Ronnie!
Ext. Farmhouse-day
The screams echo outside.
FadE to black.
The end