"The Last Round"

Screenplay by:

Lawrence Watson

FADE IN:

	1  EXT. PITTSBURGH - NIGHT  1

The CREDITS are shown over the night view of the city of Pittsburgh. It's raining, and a trip back in time to when it was the smoky steel town it once was, seventy years ago.

SUPERIMPOSED: PITTSBURGH,PENNSYLVANIA, 1935.

Uniformed and plainclothes police officers are all over the area. The officer in charge of the area, DETECTIVE SAMUELS, a brash, slovenly man, makes his way over to the crime scene.

SAMUELS
Hey there Sergeant, what do we have here?

SERGEANT
The victim is a twenty-two year old girl. Her name is Samantha Milton. One of the guys identified her from the newspapers. Her last boyfriend is a local boxer

SAMUELS
Do you know which one? There are lots of boxers around here.

SERGEANT
Well, they aren't together anymore, but the boxer's name is Jimmy "The Hammer" Kirk. He's probably going to be top suspect here, chief.

SAMUELS
I wanna have a look at the body.

The Sergeant leads Samuels over to a body covered by a white cloth.

SAMUELS' POV: The blonde girl. She has multiple wounds over her chest and face. It's not a pretty sight.

SAMUELS
Alright. Get her down to the morgue, and we can have an autopsy on her done right away, before the coroner goes home for the night.

CUT TO:

	2  INT. ARENA - RING  2

JIMMY KIRK'S POV: He is avoiding the punches of a big boxer.

REGULAR SHOT:

JIMMY "THE HAMMER" KIRK, a light-heavyweight boxer in his twenties, and appears to be of Italian descent. He weaves around the ring from his more ungainly opponent, "MARVELOUS" JOHN MANNING. The REFEREE watches the two opponents start to slug it out carefully. We are clearly in a later round, and both men are bloodied. It's only a matter of time to see who falls.

OUTSIDE THE RING:

In Kirk's corner, his girlfriend, a pretty girl, also in her twenties, COLLEEN LARSON, cheers on her man, while the TRAINER shouts instructions. (ad-lib)

BACK TO SHOT.

It finally appears as if Manning is slowing. With one final, strong uppercut, Manning goes down, and the Referee administers the ten count, and then calls for the bell. There is pandemonium in the ring, as all parties rush in. The chubby ANNOUNCER squeezes his way through, and grabs the overhead mike.

ANNOUNCER
The winner by knockout... Approximately two minutes and twenty-two seconds into the eighth round... Jimmy "The Hammer" Kirk!...

OVER TO:

Kirk's corner. The Trainer sponges and wipes the blood from the victorious boxer, and as soon as he does, Colleen gives him a congratulatory kiss.

COLLEEN
Great win, Jimmy!

JIMMY
Thanks, honey.

DISSOLVE TO:

	3  INT. LOCKER ROOM - SAME  3

Jimmy, Colleen, and the trainer are all back there. The trainer cuts off the gloves, while the two lovers are more preoccupied.

COLLEEN
Jimmy, now that you're winning your fights... When do you think we can get hitched?

JIMMY
I dunno, Colleen. Maybe when I'm not just picking up a couple ten rounders, y'know? I need a good cash fight, y'know?... Then, we can get married. I promise ya.

We hear a commotion outside the locker room, and then, Detective Samuels and a few other cops burst in, causing a huge commotion.

SAMUELS
Is that Jimmy Kirk?!

TRAINER
Hey, you people can't come in here!...

SAMUELS
Oh no?...

Detective Samuels flashes his badge, and the trainer backs off.

JIMMY
I still don't understand. What's goin' on here?

SAMUELS
Jimmy Kirk, you're under arrest for the murder of Samantha Milton.

Kirk panics, and Colleen looks around frightened. The Sergeant with Samuels cuffs Kirk, who protests.

JIMMY
I didn't do nothin'! I didn't do nothin'!... Colleen!...

COLLEEN
I'm here, baby!... I'll find someone to help you!...

The Sergeant leads Jimmy off, and Samuels stays behind to explain the situation to Colleen.

SAMUELS
Ms. Larson...

COLLEEN
My Jimmy didn't do nothing!

SAMUELS
That may be, Ms. Larson, but I have to go on facts. You can visit him in the city jail tomorrow. Also, I can recommend a public defender...

Colleen, in tears, interrupts the detective.

COLLEEN
No!... No public defender is interested in my Jimmy. I won't let you fry my Jimmy for something he didn't do...

The detective sees he isn't going to get anywhere with her, and decides to take his leave.

TIGHT ON: 

Colleen's face, as the tears well up.

DISSOLVE TO:

	4  INT. JAIL - MORNING  4

Jimmy lays on his cot, staring up at the wooden ceiling. A yokel GUARD comes over, and unlocks the door.

JIMMY
Hey... What's goin' on?

GUARD
You got a visitor, Kirk. A pretty little lady.

The guard moves over to reveal Colleen standing behind him. She looks around nervously, and goes in the cell.

GUARD
You got all of two minutes, lady.

The guard locks the door behind her, and walks away. Colleen looks around the small cubicle with tears in her eyes. They embrace in a passionate kiss. When Colleen pulls back, she is crying softly.

JIMMY
Aw, it ain't so bad, Colleen. I got fed breakfast and everything. Back when I was on the streets, I never knew when my next meal was comin'.

COLLEEN
I don't like it that you're stuck here for that woman's murder. I know you didn't do it!

JIMMY
Well, you know it, and I know it. All we gotta do is tell them I didn't do it. We was at the arena all night. How could I do it, y'know.

COLLEEN
I went and saw the public defender. Jimmy, he's not gonna be any help! He thinks you're guilty, and there are even some folks who say they saw you there!

JIMMY
Well, all we gotta do, is get up there, and tell the truth. I mean, how smart can the prosecuting attorney be? I mean, they're all just lawyers who weren't good enough to make any money, right?...

The guard comes over, and unlocks the cell.

GUARD
Not hardly, grease ball. The prosecutor is a legend around here...

JIMMY
Oh really?... Well, I mean, how good could this guy really be?

The guard simply laughs and opens the cell.

GUARD
Alright, miss. Time's up in here. Let's go.

The guard leads Colleen out. She turns back and blows him a kiss.

COLLEEN
I love you.

JIMMY
I love you too...

DISSOLVE TO:

	5  INT. PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE - DAY  5

TIGHT ON:

A slick looking white shoe, resting on a window sill. the camera PANS UP the shoe, to reveal a white pant leg, a white vest, with a pocket watch dangling from it, a a white suit jacket, with golden cuff links, with the initials "O.S." ingrained in them, on a white shirt. A white tie is barely visible, as it is neatly tucked in to the vest, and a pair of large, strong looking hands, hold a newspaper over the man's face. The Headline of the murder is quite visible. After a few split seconds, there is a knock at the door, and a scholarly looking man enters. He is the assistant prosecutor, MARCUS DUNN.

DUNN
Mr. Smiley?...

REGULAR SHOT:

The man in the white suit turns and drops the paper, revealing a strong featured, ruddy face. He is the District Attorney, OSGOOD H. SMILEY, a giant of a man, both in body and esteem. He is past sixty, and his silver hair is thick and wavy.

SMILEY
What is it, Mr. Dunn?

DUNN
The Kirk murder trial... Who's handling it?

Osgood rubs his chin, seemingly in deep thought.

SMILEY
I think I'll do it myself... Would you like to second chair?

DUNN
I'd be honored!

SMILEY
Good. Now, make sure that I have the facts on my desk by tomorrow afternoon, and set up a meeting with the detective in charge of the case.

Dunn nods, and leaves the room.

CUT TO:

	6  EXT. PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE - EVENING  6

Smiley, Dunn, and a few other attorney's emerge from his office, along with Detective Samuels. They are surrounded by BEAT REPORTERS looking for copy. One reporter however, seems generally disinterested in Osgood's pomp parade. The reporter is a corpulent, cynical man in his early thirties named HARRY ECKHARDT. Eckhardt watches the other reporters question the charismatic lawyer, and the brusque detective. (ad-lib)

REPORTER #1
Mr. Smiley, who from your office have you chosen to prosecute the boxer accused of murder, Jimmy Kirk?

SMILEY
I've chosen to handle the case myself, and Mr. Dunn will be second chair.

REPORTER #2
Detective Samuels, in your opinion, is Jimmy Kirk really guilty of murder?

SAMUELS
Listen fellas, if you're lookin' for a hot scoop, go scout a ballgame, the Pirates are playing.

The procession moves on, with continued questions. Finally, the lawyers and the detective reach their car, and hop in. Dunn lingers behind to tell the reporters to back off.

DUNN
Gentlemen, there is nothing further to discuss. Mr. Smiley needs time to go over the facts of the case, and he has no other comments at this time.

Dunn climbs into the car, and it drives away. The first reporter goes up to Eckhardt and gives him a quizzical smile.

REPORTER #1
Hey Harry, what's the deal? I mean, this is interesting stuff. Some boxer leaves his girlfriend for another woman, then when she finds out, he kills her to avoid having her call him a lecher.

HARRY
Sounds like another one of those stupid serial soaps on the radio. I'm a journalist, not some idealistic romantic. This is just another murder case, and one in which I happen to think the kid is not guilty.

REPORTER #1
You're dizzy, Eck.

The reporter walks off, leaving Eckhardt alone. It begins to rain, and he looks up to the sky with disdain.

HARRY
Whoever did that, thank you?... Really. That's all I needed, really...

Eckhardt turns his back and walks away.

CUT TO:

	7  INT. JAIL - MORNING  7

Inside Jimmy's cell, he and Colleen are talking. She lies her head on his shoulder. He, in contrast, is remarkably calm about the whole thing.

JIMMY
It'll be alright, Colleen. I'll get outta' this just fine. I didn't kill that girl, and all our lawyer's gotta do, is outsmart the other guy, right?

HARRY (OC)
I wouldn't bet on that...

JIMMY AND COLLEEN'S POV: They see the figure of Harry Eckhardt lighting a cigar.

REGULAR SHOT:

COLLEEN
Who are you?... Go away, please...

HARRY
Relax. My name's Harry Eckhardt, and I'm a reporter.

JIMMY
A reporter?

HARRY
Well... Not that I like to brag, but not just a reporter... I'm THE reporter. I'm the greatest journalistic mind in the history of this smokey city.

COLLEEN
What do you want?... Why don't you leave my boyfriend alone?!

HARRY
I came to tell you that I think Jimmy's innocent... Well, not really, I just happen to have bet on him against John Manning. He made me quite a bit of money, y'know that?

The two lovers give the man a questioning look. They're not quite sure what to make of him.

HARRY (CONT'D)
I'm here to tell you that Osgood Smiley is going to be prosecuting against you.

JIMMY
Is that good?

HARRY
Good?!... Why you ignorant dago, don't you know that Osgood Smiley is perhaps the best criminal prosecutor of all time?!... He's never lost a case that he's argued in. I'm here to tell you that without me, you don't stand a chance.

COLLEEN
I thought you said you were a reporter... Do you have a law degree, Mr. Eckhardt?... Can you get the charges against my Jimmy, dropped?!...

HARRY
Lady, take it easy with that mushy lovey-dovey stuff. Unfortunately, law is not among one of my many degrees, so I can't help you there, but I do have someone in mind. I do have to ask him of course, but I think when he hears of your plight, he'll say yes.

JIMMY
Well... What's his name?...

HARRY
Now isn't that always the way of things? The minute I showed up, you were ready to kick me out. But when I offer you something, you jump at the chance to have me as your... Oh, what's a good boxing analogy?... Cornerman!

COLLEEN
Why do you condescend to us?... You are one arrogant asshole if you think that...

Jimmy stops her from the tirade.

JIMMY
Take it easy, babe... Let's hear the man out.

HARRY
Why thank you, dago boy. There is one attorney I think can hand Osgood a good beating. His name is Neil Douglas.

COLLEEN
I've heard of him... He's a hotshot liberal attorney. Didn't he work with Clarence Darrow, once?

HARRY
Who do you think taught him how to be such a great trial lawyer... But I have to talk to him first...

CUT TO:

	8  INT. NEWSPAPER OFFICE - MORNING  8

Harry is on the phone and writing things down at the same time. The conversation is rather heated. (Ad-lib)

HARRY
(Into Phone)
Oh wait a minute! (beat) You can't tell me that I owe over fifty dollars to Larry! (beat) Well then do me a favor. (beat) Go by my house and turn off the gas to my oven... (beat) Because my head's gonna be in it!

He slams the phone down, and his editor, a gruff looking man in his fifties, DONALD MARTIN, taps on his shoulder.

MARTIN
I need that story by tonight, Eckhardt!...

HARRY
Well, Mr. Martin, I'm working on it... I need to check up on someone at the moment.

Harry gets up and leaves with Martin on his heels.

CUT TO:

	9  EXT. PAY PHONE - SAME  9

Harry is impatiently holding the telephone.

HARRY
(Into Phone)
Yes, hello, my name is Harry Eckhardt. Is Mr. Douglas in? (beat) Would you tell him that Harry Eckhardt wants to see him?...

CUT TO:

	10  INT. DOUGLAS' OFFICE - SAME  10

NEIL DOUGLAS, a handsome, charming, prepossessing man in his early thirties is reading over the newspaper. There is a knock at the door, and Douglas puts down the paper.

NEIL
Yes?...

Harry comes in, and tosses his own paper to Douglas. The physical differences between the two are remarkable.

HARRY
You never read my paper...

NEIL
Hi Harry, what can I do for you? Are you being sued for slander?

He laughs, and Harry shakes his head.

HARRY
I'm afraid it's something a bit more substantial than that, Neil. I want you to defend the boxer accused of murder.

NEIL
Doesn't he have representation yet?

HARRY
I'm afraid not. The public defender doesn't want anything to do with this case for one reason: Osgood Smiley is going to prosecute.

NEIL
No shit, old Osgood himself... This ought to be interesting. (beat) I wanna meet this kid.

HARRY
I can arrange that. The lead investigator is a guy named Samuels. He's already been working with Osgood to get the death penalty option.

NEIL
Have they named a judge?

HARRY
Not to my knowledge.

NEIL
Well... Let me look the case, and see if I can lobby for a decent judge.

HARRY
Well, from what my paper has reported, the judge with the least death sentences is a fellow named Ross Clark. Look him up.

With that, Harry nods a goodbye, and is on his way out.

DISSOLVE TO:

	11  INT. JAIL - DAY  11

Neil enters carrying a briefcase, enters the cell, where the guard holds him up.

GUARD
Hang on a minute. Who are you?

NEIL
I'm Neil Douglas, I'm here to see Jimmy Kirk.

The guard nods and takes Douglas back to Kirk's cell.

GUARD
Someone here to see you, greaseball.

The guard unlocks the cell and lets Douglas go in. The guard locks back up, and goes back to his post. Jimmy looks up at Douglas, who smiles reassuringly.

NEIL
I can only imagine how you must feel, son. Probably like you don't have a friend in the world. Well, I'm here for you. I'm your friend from now on.

JIMMY
You're the lawyer?

NEIL
More or less. I'm Neil Douglas. I'll be your attorney.

JIMMY
Do you think I did it?

NEIL
What I think doesn't matter. Honestly, I think you're innocent. Now, how about you go through that night with me, one thing at a time?...

CUT TO:

	12  EXT. OSGOOD'S OFFICE - DAY  12

Reporters, and the like are asking the aged prosecutor questions. Smiley, as always, relishes in the attention he's given.

REPORTER #1
Mr. Smiley! What about the news that Neil Douglas has joined the defense team?

SMILEY
It makes no difference as to who the boy hires to be his lawyer. I've never lost a case, and I don't plan on starting now.

REPORTER #2
Mr. Smiley, will you request the death penalty in this case?

SMILEY
Yes. This most vile crime deserves a just punishment. If I were to allow this man to get off with a light punishment, it wouldn't be fair to the Milton family. Their daughter deserves justice...

PUSH LEFT TO:

	13  INT. COLLEEN'S HOME - SAME  13

The interview has been broadcast over the radio. Colleen sits next to it, listening in tears. She shuts it off, unable to stand anymore. After she breaks down, there is a knock at the door. She gets up to answer it. It's Neil Douglas.

NEIL
Ms. Larson?

COLLEEN
Yes. Who are you?

NEIL
I'm Neil Douglas. I'm Jimmy's attorney. Now, according to what he told me at our meeting today, he was with you all afternoon... Uh...

COLLEEN
What's wrong, Mr. Douglas?

NEIL
Can I come in?

COLLEEN
Of course... How silly of me. Please, come in, Mr. Douglas.

NEIL
Thanks.

Neil walks in and gives her a smile. Just like that, the attraction between them is instant, and readily apparent.

COLLEEN
Can I offer you something to drink?

NEIL
No thanks... Now, according to what Jimmy told me, he was with you all afternoon on the night of the murder, is that correct?

COLLEEN
Yes. He had a big fight that night, and before that, we went to see a movie.

NEIL
Do you remember the names of the pictures you saw?

COLLEEN
No... I'm no good with that. It was a comedy... I just don't remember...

NEIL
Well Ms. Larson, without an alibi, I can't really protect your...

COLLEEN
He's just my boyfriend. That doesn't mean I love him any less because we're not engaged...

Neil jots a note on a small pad.

NEIL
I know this may sound personal, but have the two of you ever...

He isn't sure how to word it, and he stops. Colleen knows what he's getting at, and she nods her head yes, ashamed.

NEIL
You wanna tell me what you guys were really doing that evening?

COLLEEN
I can't... I could never live with myself if people knew we did that out of wedlock!

NEIL
Lady, do you want your boyfriend to be released or not? If I can convince them that the two of you were having a romantic interlude during the time of the murder... Here or at his place?...

COLLEEN
Here...

NEIL
...At this place, then that provides an unshakable alibi. I'll tell you what. You think it over, and let me know what you want to do... Goodbye, Ms. Larson.

He gets up and goes to leave, but stops cold in his tracks and looks back at her.

NEIL
I know now... You really do love him, don't you?

Colleen, in tears, only manages to shake her head yes.

COLLEEN
Mr. Douglas... Save him for me...

NEIL
You can count on it... This is one fight that I'm in to the last round.

He turns and leaves.

DISSOLVE TO:

	14  INT. NEWSPAPER OFFICE - NIGHT  14

Harry is on the telephone.

HARRY
(Into Phone)
Hey Neil, I've got some good news!...

INTER-CUT PHONE CONVERSATION:

	15  INT. DOUGLAS' OFFICE - NIGHT  15

NEIL
(Into Phone)
Well, spit it out, Harry!

	16  INT. NEWSPAPER OFFICE - NIGHT  16

HARRY
(Into Phone)
I found out who the Judge for the case is gonna be... Ross Clark!... You're client at least might avoid the death penalty.

	16  INT. DOUGLAS' OFFICE - NIGHT  16

Neil sighs with relief. At least he has a shot at keeping Jimmy from frying.

NEIL
(Into Phone)
Oh, thank god.... Wait, how did you find out before I did?

HARRY (OC)
I'm a journalist Neil, it's my job to know these things...

Neil hangs up the phone and sighs.

CUT TO:

	17  INT. OSGOOD'S OFFICE - MORNING  17

Osgood Smiley scans over some files, and as he does so, writes down a few notes on a yellow pad. The phone in his office rings, and he answers it promptly.

SMILEY
(Into Phone)
Hello? (Beat) Judge Clark's presiding? (Beat) Well, Marcus, wasn't there anything you could do? (Beat) Alright, Marcus... Yes, thank you...

There is a knock at the door.

SMILEY'S POV: The slim figure of a woman outside. He doesn't know who it is, but the audience can deduce that it's Colleen Larson.

REGULAR SHOT:

SMILEY
Come in.

Colleen enters the room with a worried look on her face. Osgood looks her over wryly.

SMILEY
What can I do for you? Do you finally admit that Jimmy is guilty of Samantha Milton's murder?

COLLEEN
Please, Mr. Smiley... I beg of you... Don't let them kill him!...

SMILEY
Ms. Larson, your boyfriend doesn't have an alibi. He had motive: You. He had the time, and he had the ability. Don't you believe that the guilty should pay for their crimes?

COLLEEN
Well... Yes...

Smiley knows he's got her now. He is going to manipulate this girl to the hilt.

SMILEY
Then why shouldn't a guilty man pay?...

COLLEEN
But...

SMILEY
He's guilty and you know it.

Colleen hesitates... She doesn't want to tell him what she and Jimmy had done, and it shows.

COLLEEN
I can see...

She breaks down in tears, and rushes out. Instead of looking concerned, he looks confidant. He thinks he has planted the seeds of doubt. Marcus Dunn enters with a questioning look on his face.

DUNN
What was that?

SMILEY
We can use that girl. She's not sure of herself, and I can feel it. If we break her on the stand, I'm sure we can get the jury and Judge Clark to see the light.

DUNN
Mr. Smiley... I agree that the man is guilty, but to use a girl, who is innocent... That's not ethical...

SMILEY
Damn it Dunn, I'm a lawyer not a saint! Pull your head out of your rear end! We can't let that man get away with it, and if the jury's sympathetic, you can forget about winning! Winning is the only thing that matters, understand?!

DUNN
Perfectly, Mr. Smiley.

Dunn leaves the office.

DISSOLVE TO:

	18  INT. COURTROOM - MORNING  18

It's the morning of the trial. The BAILIFF, an elderly black man, brings Jimmy out, and shows him where to sit. You can here the obvious commotion outside the door.

BAILIFF
I suppose I'd better open the doors, 'fore those newspaper fellas break it down.

Jimmy laughs. The two of them seem to get along easy. the bailiff walks over, and opens up the doors, and the reporters and witnesses, and those who will be watching, pour in. The first person in, is Harry, who speaks to the bailiff. We can see important people entering, like the family of the murdered girl, Detective Samuels, and Colleen Larson. Harry clears a path for Colleen, so that she can sit with Jimmy.

HARRY
(Above the fray)
Gangway! Gangway! Everybody move!

CUT TO:

	19  EXT. COURTHOUSE - SAME  19

People and spectators climb up the steps, squeezing through the doors. Neil Douglas arrives, and the reporters head him off.

REPORTER
Mr. Douglas?!... Do you have any comments to make before you head into the court room?

NEIL
Yeah. I would just like to say to the public following the trial, that the evidence doesn't connect Jimmy Kirk in any way to the murder of Samantha Milton. That's all I have fellas.

Douglas quickly ascends the stairs, and enters the courtroom. As he does so, Osgood Smiley's limousine pulls up. The DRIVER opens his door, and first, Dunn emerges, then the star of the show, in his all-white suit, emerges and waves to the reporters, who take picture after picture. Osgood Smiley is made for these moments. He talks and shakes hands with reporters, while Harry conspicuously heads towards Smiley, and begins to ask him some questions, which are unheard to the audience. We finally come to FOCUS ON them.

HARRY
Mr. Smiley, how do you live with yourself at night? You and I both know that there's no evidence linking that boy to the crime, and I'm not even a lawyer!

SMILEY
Perhaps you should stick to your profession, Mr. Eckhardt. You've been nothing but biased the entire time. How can you live with yourself at night?... You have to live with yourself because no woman would ever want to live with a slovenly, fat, bitter, and egocentric man like you. You should do the world a favor and jump into the Monongahela River. When you wake up alone every day, I hope it hurts, you disgusting slob.

HARRY
Y'know Osgood, it must be a wonderful feeling to get up and think everybody's in love with you. Please. You're a sideshow. You haven't had a case in ages, and you think that this will put you back in the limelight. I got news for you, sweetheart, there's not an attorney better than Neil Douglas... Not even you, you pathetic has-been.

Harry, seeing that he has sufficiently flustered Smiley, turns and heads back inside. Smiley turns to Dunn angrily.

SMILEY
I'll have that man eaten alive!

DUNN
Don't worry about him, sir. Harry Eckhardt has always been a shrill and bitter man. He's worth ignoring, sir.

SMILEY
When I send Jimmy Kirk to prison, then we'll see who's laughing.

DISSOLVE TO:

	20  INT. COURTROOM - LATER  20

OVERHEAD SHOT:

We see flashbulbs going off, and reporters are milling around. A few speak with Douglas, but most are fixated on Osgood Smiley. Finally, the Bailiff establishes order.

REGULAR SHOT:

BAILIFF
All rise! The Allegheny County Court of Pittsburgh is now in session! The Honorable Judge Ross Clark is presiding!

JUDGE CLARK, a younger member of the bench in his early forties enters. He is handsome, and his face bears gravity. He is a strong looking man, and is keenly aware of the coverage the trial has been getting. Clark sits in his chair and gives a rap of the gavel.

JUDGE CLARK
Be seated.

Everyone sits. Colleen looks to Bobby and Jimmy nervously.

JUDGE CLARK
We will be hearing Case number 22276, the Commonwealth versus Kirk, on the charge of first degree murder. Mr. Douglas, how does your client plead?

NEIL
Not guilty, Your Honor.

JUDGE CLARK
Your client has entered a plea of not guilty. We will proceed with the selection of the jury. Mr. Harper, proceed with the selection of the first venireman.

BAILIFF
Mr. Alan Franklin...

ALAN FRANKLIN, nearly sixty, makes his way to the box.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Smiley, you may examine the venireman.

Smiley stands, and nods to Dunn, and the Judge.

SMILEY
Mr. Franklin, if you were presented with irrevocable evidence, that a pretty young girl, in the prime of life, was murdered in a most brutal fashion...

NEIL
Objection, Your Honor.

JUDGE CLARK
Objection sustained.

SMILEY
Well, how about this... Do you support the Death Penalty in cases of murder?

ALAN FRANKLIN
Well, I've always believed in a good judicial system, and I suppose if the evidence supported it, then I would.

SMILEY
I have no objections to this man, Your Honor.

Smiley goes back to his seat.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Douglas, you may examine the venireman.

NEIL
Thank you, Your Honor.

Douglas stands, and buttons his coat. Colleen watches him nervously, so Harry leans in to speak to her.

HARRY
Relax, sweetheart, we still have plenty of rounds left in the fight. This is only the beginning.

In a rare showing of emotional friendliness, he puts his hand on her shoulder reassuringly, then sits back. Jimmy turns to look at him, almost suspiciously.

NEIL
Mr. Franklin, it's nice to meet you. My name is Neil Douglas, and I'm just going to ask you a couple questions. First of all... Um... I take it you vote regularly, sir.

ALAN FRANKLIN
I do.

NEIL
Good, good. We had a Presidential election a few years back, and one's coming up. I suppose you wouldn't mind if I asked who you supported?

ALAN FRANKLIN
Well, I voted for Hoover, and I'll probably vote for whoever the Republicans nominate in '36.

NEIL
I take it you're not a big fan of President Roosevelt, then?

ALAN FRANKLIN
Nope...

Marcus Dunn springs to his feet.

DUNN
Objection, Your Honor, Mr. Douglas' examination is entirely political, and has nothing to do with the facts of the case.

JUDGE CLARK
Objection sustained. Mr. Douglas, you must confine your questioning to the case.

NEIL
Fair enough. Mr. Franklin, if you were presented with a concrete alibi that my client, Jimmy Kirk, could not have been anywhere near the scene of the murder, would you vote in favor of acquittal?

ALAN FRANKLIN
I always follow the truth. I would vote in favor of acquittal  if you could prove it.

NEIL
Good work, Mr. Franklin. You can grab a box seat over there.

The Judge gives a nod, and Franklin goes to take a seat in the jury box. This was relatively easy, and in no way will shape the coming battle.

DISSOLVE TO:

	21  INT. COURTROOM - TIME ELAPSE  21

We get a shot of the formed Jury. It has been at least a few hours, as some of the jurors look completely exhausted. We then PAN LEFT to the prosecution's table. Osgood Smiley sits in his chair, wiping his brow with a white handkerchief. Marcus Dunn, visibly sweating, cleaning his glasses. We PAN LEFT again to reveal a visibly bored Harry, a continually nervous Colleen, and a stoic, sweaty Jimmy. PAN LEFT again, and Neil is interviewing someone for the final seat. His hair is slightly out of place, and he doesn't look as confidant as he did at the beginning of the trial.

NEIL
Now Mr. Cope, are you at all a fight fan?

COPE
I used to be when I was younger. Heck, I even used to do some boxing. I watched John L. Sullivan and Jake Kilrain fight for the World Title thirty-five years ago.

NEIL
Are you familiar with my client at all?

COPE
I think I've seen that kid fight before. Other than that, I don't much know him.

NEIL
Mr. Cope, is there anything that could possibly bias your opinion on the case?

COPE
Nope. If he seems innocent, I'll vote that way, if he seems guilty, I'll vote that way.

NEIL
This man's acceptable to the defense, Your Honor.

Douglas goes back and tiredly takes his seat.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Smiley, you may proceed with your examination.

Smiley gets up, and nods to the Judge.

SMILEY
Thank you, Your Honor. Mr. Cope, do you believe in the death penalty?

COPE
For a guilty man.

SMILEY
Thank you. I have no more questions, this man is acceptable to the prosecution.

Cope takes his seat as the twelfth and final juror. Judge Clark, who is tired as well, pounds his gavel.

JUDGE CLARK
The bench holds that the jury has been selected. We are adjourned until ten o'clock tomorrow morning.

BAILIFF
All rise as the Judge leaves!

Everyone does so. When Judge Clark has entered his chambers, the crowd begins to mill about, and most soon leave. The bailiff comes over to take Jimmy away.

COLLEEN
Mr. Bailiff, could you give us just a minute?

BAILIFF
Alright. I suppose it can wait a few minutes.

The bailiff goes off for a moment, leaving Jimmy and Colleen alone, while Neil speaks to Harry unintelligibly.

JIMMY
Colleen, I just wanted you to know that I love you, and that no matter what happens, we'll get out of this together.

COLLEEN
I love you, Jimmy. I'll never leave you.

JIMMY
Neil wants to know if we should tell the jury that we were having sex during the time of the murder, but he wants your okay to use it.

COLLEEN
I can't, Jimmy... I love you, but I can't let the world know we made love out of wedlock... I'll never live it down, it's a sin, Jimmy.

Neil and Harry have overheard, and abruptly end their conversation.

NEIL
So is murder, Ms. Larson. And, if you don't testify as to what you guys were doing, then Jimmy has no alibi, and he goes to the chair. Now, what are you more afraid of? Letting the world know you committed a sin, or are you afraid of losing the man you love because of a different sin that he never committed?! Make your choice now, and if it's the former, then by all means, I'll change his plea to guilty, and we can save ourselves a lot of time and money.

COLLEEN
Mr. Douglas, it's not all that simple for me... I was raised a god-fearing Christian girl. To let it out that I committed adultery would not only leave god angry with me, but society as well!

HARRY
What kind of a god would be so unforgiving as to cast someone into the fiery pits of hell for making one mistake? If that's who god really is, then I'm better off being an atheist.

Harry turns and walks out. He is still an enigma, and not one of the others has really figured out what's inside of him.

COLLEEN
I've never met a more awful individual than that man in my life. Have you known him long, Mr. Douglas?

NEIL
Yeah... We grew up together. Don't worry about Harry, guys. He puts up a tough front, but he's very sensitive. You see, Harry used to be in love with this girl...

JIMMY
What?... In love as a kid?...

NEIL
Well, not real love, Jimmy. Puppy love. Well, the girl's name was Jessica, and the three of us were inseparable. But one day, another boy came along. He beat Harry up real bad, just to impress Jessica. Well, he did. She went with him... Harry was heartbroken. It took him weeks to recover from being beat up so badly. I'll never forget the look on his face while he tried to fight that boy... It was one of fear, of pain, and when they cleaned the blood off of his face, I'll never forget that look either... It was one of defeat.

JIMMY
I've been beaten up a lot in my time Neil, but I ain't never been beaten that badly. I guess that's why he ain't in too good of shape, huh?

NEIL
Well Jimmy, Harry's just lonely. Now, I know I'm fairly good looking, and so are you, Jimmy, especially in your profession, and Colleen is a beautiful girl. Imagine how he feels, though. Everything has been so negative for him. He doesn't have dates like I do, and he sure doesn't have the beauty of a relationship like you two do. The man has taken a lot of punishment, physically and mentally. Imagine walking through a world where you were considered too ugly or overweight, or whatever to be considered for a loving relationship. You'd be just a little bitter too.

COLLEEN
That's the most awful thing I've ever heard.

NEIL
Well now, perhaps you'll take a lesson from the bible, which tells us not to pass judgment on others before we know them.

Neil turns and leaves, and when he does, the bailiff comes over and clears his throat.

JIMMY
I love you, Colleen.

COLLEEN
I love you, Jimmy.

The bailiff leads Jimmy away, and Colleen is in tears.

DISSOLVE TO:

	22  INT. NEWSPAPER OFFICE - NIGHT  22

Harry is typing his story. When he finishes, he removes the paper from the typewriter, and kisses the paper confidently. Donald Martin emerges from his office, and bellows.

MARTIN
Eckhardt!

Harry nearly topples backwards, but regains his footing. Getting up, he hands the paper to Martin.

HARRY
This is it, Chief.

Martin takes the sheet, reads it over, then crumbles it up.

MARTIN
I hate it! Our job is to promote the popular opinion, Harry. Everyone thinks that boxer is guilty.

HARRY
You can't be serious, Donald. What about pushing the public to make it's own mind up?

MARTIN
No money in it! (beat) Harry, I know you've been friends with Neil Douglas since you guys were little babies in the womb of your respective knocked up mothers.

HARRY
With all due respect, sir...

MARTIN
No, that right there is your problem, Eckhardt. You got no respect for authority. Now, you'd better write glowing praise for Osgood Smiley or you're fired. I'll give you another week.

Martin goes back into his office, and Harry tosses the paper into the garbage. Instead of sitting down and starting again, he picks up his coat and gets a whiskey bottle from his drawer.

HARRY
We have a date tonight, or have you forgotten?

He leaves while taking a drink.

CUT TO:

	23  INT. COLLEEN'S HOME - NIGHT  23

Colleen is in her evening gown, and coming from the kitchen with a cup of tea. When she sits down and takes a sip, a knock comes at her door. She hesitates, but ultimately answers it. It is Neil Douglas.

NEIL
Hello, Ms. Larson. May I come in?

COLLEEN
It's late, Mr. Douglas.

NEIL
Well, I was just wondering...

He can't quite say it. He is lost, and he is out of place.

NEIL
You and Jimmy... What will you do if I can't get him off? I'd like to help you.

The look on Colleen's face shifts. She slaps Douglas in the face, and turns away.

COLLEEN
Don't you say that! Don't you ever say that, Mr. Douglas! I want you to save my Jimmy. You're just going to bury him.

NEIL
Ms. Larson... Unless I tell the jury what you were both doing, I can't save him. There's just too much evidence, and he doesn't have an alibi, and he won't let me use the one he has. Please, Ms. Larson. Please don't send your own boyfriend to jail.

TIGHT ON: Her face. She is completely torn.

COLLEEN
There must be another way, Mr. Douglas.

NEIL
I'm afraid not. The only thing I can even hope to do is to convince Judge Clark not to pass the death penalty. Without your testimony, Jimmy's going to be convicted.

DISSOLVE TO:

	24  INT. COURTROOM - DAY  24

Osgood Smiley is as confidant as ever. Giving comments to the press while Dunn prepares the days prosecution. Harry sits behind the defense table holding his brow. He is clearly hung over, and it's not something that Smiley is the type to pass up.

SMILEY
I see you're not feeling well today, Eckhardt. What's the matter, too many shots at Hannigan's bar?

HARRY
I'm sure my headache and the condition of my liver don't matter to you.

SMILEY
You're not as ignorant as your writings portray you as, Eckhardt. I must say that my true concern is for whether or not you'll keep your job. You should really be much kinder to me in your editorial today, chubby. Maybe I'll introduce you to my daughter...

HARRY
Go to hell.

At that moment, Neil walks by. Osgood stops egging Harry on and focuses his attention on his true opponent.

SMILEY
Mr. Douglas, you better pray to god that you're ready for me.

NEIL
I'm ready Osgood. Oh, and white is still not your color.

The aging lawyer is not amused and he returns to his table. Neil leans down to where Harry is holding his head and looking pained.

NEIL
Hey Eck, you ok?

HARRY
Yeah, I'm alright. I just had a date last night.

NEIL
What, a real one?!

HARRY
No. I went out with my wonderful girl, Kentucky bourbon whiskey.

Neil laughs at the joke and goes to the table where he meets Jimmy and Colleen.

NEIL
Listen Jimmy, Smiley's gonna put Colleen on the stand to try to break her down. If you get her to tell the truth about what you were doing, you're safe.

JIMMY
No. If Colleen don't wanna tell, then she don't have to.

Neil shakes his head as Judge Clark enters and the Bailiff calls everyone to stand.

JUDGE CLARK
Be seated. Now, we will hear the opening statements. Mr. Smiley?

Osgood Smiley stands and walks over to the jury box. He takes in a deep breath and begins one of his pentultimate performances.

SMILEY
Gentleman of the jury, today and through the course of your noble service, you will hear about the brutal murder of an innocent twenty-five year old girl, and of how the gentleman sitting at that table right there was the one responsible for this vile and heinous act of brutality. The evidence in this case is going to show beyond a shadow of a doubt that Jimmy Kirk literally beat the living soul out of his former girlfriend Samantha Milton. It's up to all of you to see the light of whether or not we've picked out the right guy. I think after you all hear the sworn testimonies of those involved in the case, you'll see that the light of truth is a guilty verdict. I thank you.

Smiley smiles and confidantly strolls back to the prosecution table.

JUDGE CLARK
Counselor, your opening statement.

Neil gets up and walks over to the jury box. He delays a minute before speaking.

NEIL
Fellas, I know that you'd probably all rather be someplace else right now. I know that the Pirates have a game today, and they're doing rather well. Some of you may rather be at home with your wives or I figure most of you work at the steel mill, you'd probably rather be doing that than just be sitting here. But, the deal is, you twelve men have to pass judgement on a case of first degree murder. My client is a boxer and is only here today because he had a past relationship with the victim that ended quite some time ago. The defense intends to prove to everyone of you that this is just a case of the state attacking a man because he was once romantically linked to Samantha Milton, and because he's a boxer, he must be a murderous savage. Well, I disagree, and I hope after you hear the facts, you concur with the truth... 

He nods and takes his leave.

JUDGE CLARK
The court will now hear the case of the prosecution. Are you prepared to proceed.

DUNN
We are, Your Honor.

JUDGE CLARK
Proceed.

DUNN
Your Honor, the prosecution calls Detective Harvey Samuels to the stand.

Detective Samuels makes his way to the stand and the Bailiff swears him in.

DUNN
Detective, how long have you been an officer in the city?

SAMUELS
I've been on the force here for a full eight years.

DUNN
What is your present rank?

SAMUELS
I'm a Lieutenant, however, because I am a plainclothes officer, I don't work a beat.

DUNN
I see. Now, would you be so kind as to run through your movements for the day of the murder?

SAMUELS
Well, all I did that day was various paperwork. I was set to go home for the evening, and I had just put on my jacket when I recieved a call at my desk to go over to the Strip, there had been a body found.

DUNN
I see...

Smiley stands, disliking the slow pace Dunn is using. He wants to strike and strike now. Dunn retreats in his favor.

SMILEY
Detective, after you identified the body, were you able to identify the type of death she had suffered?

SAMUELS
Yes I was. It was immidiately appearant that the victim had suffered several lacerations and contusions to the face. Her murder was a rather brutal and personal one. She was beaten and strangled slowly. We found her with her tongue hanging out and eyes protruding. Classic sign of strangulation.

SMILEY
Was there a murder weapon?

SAMUELS
None that we could find. It was likely that the killer used a rope and wore gloves. Probably finished the poor girl off with his hands, the monster.

NEIL
Objection, Your Honor.

JUDGE CLARK
Objection sustained. Detective, there won't be any of that in my courtroom. I refuse to have this trial descend into riot.

Osgood realizes that the Judge is not going to sway to his point of view, and it's clear that Neil knew what he was trying to do. Incite Jimmy.

SMILEY
Detective, do you have any other suspects in the case?

SAMUELS
Our only suspect was Mr. Kirk. No one else with motive popped up in our investigation.

SMILEY
Uh-huh. No further questions, Your Honor.

Smiley returns to his seat. Neil stands up, putting his pencil down in fluid motion on the table. Even though he hadn't taken one note, it's all about showmanship.

NEIL
You mentioned that the victim, Ms. Milton was strangled. Do you have any conclusive proof?

SAMUELS
The crime scene photos clearly show marks around the neck, as well as the classic signs of strangulation.

NEIL
Ok, no arguement there. What about the fact that you said my client was your only suspect? Why do you think he'd be the only one with motive?

SAMUELS
He would be the only one who possibly had a motive. No one else seemed to have a reason to kill the victim. She was well-liked, and popular in her social circle.

NEIL
She was so well-liked... That's very true, Detective. She was so well-liked that she was getting love letters right up until the night she died.

Neil moves to the table, and picks up a letter that's in a plastic bag, and shows it to the prosecution.

NEIL (CONT'D)
This letter was found in her possession, we agree on this?

SMILEY
Yes.

NEIL
I submit this love letter as evidence, Your Honor. Samantha Milton was seeing someone else at the time of her murder. Why not persue the writer of the love letter?

OVER TO:

HARRY
(To Colleen)
See sweetheart. Neil is gonna save your boyfriend without revealing your terrible little secret. Not like having sex is such a big deal.

COLLEEN
It is, Mr. Eckhardt. You wouldn't understand.

HARRY
You're right.

BACK TO SHOT:

NEIL
Detective Samuels, Samantha Milton was seeing another man at the time of her murder. It stands to reason that he should be a suspect. Why, that man is in the courtroom right now. His name is Dr. Raymond Bradley. Why didn't you consider him a suspect? Is it because he happened to have an alibi? Is it because he isn't capable of of such strangulation? Why wasn't he a suspect, damnit?!

DUNN
Objection, Your Honor, he's badgering the witness!

JUDGE CLARK
Objection overruled. However, Mr. Douglas, you will not use that kind of language in this courtroom, understand?

NEIL
My apologies, Your Honor. Now, getting back to what I was saying... How long did it take you from the time of the murder to the time of your arrest of my client?

SAMUELS
About a day. We found her on the night of Friday, February tenth. The suspect was arrested the night of the eleventh after boxing against John Manning.

NEIL
You never investigated the possibility of interviewing Dr. Turner or anyone else for that matter? May I remind you, you are under oath, Detective.

SAMUELS
No, I didn't.

NEIL
You didn't. 

He shakes his head, and smiles knowing that he has planted some seeds of doubt in the jury's mind.

NEIL
No further questions, Your Honor.

Neil sits down at the table and makes a quick note. Jimmy leans in to speak to him.

JIMMY
You're doin' real good, Neil.

NEIL
I'm trying, Jimmy.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Smiley?

SMILEY
No further questions, Your Honor.

JUDGE CLARK
The witness is excused. You can stand down now, Detective. 

Samuels gets up and returns to his seat.

SMILEY
At this time, Your Honor, the Prosecution wishes to call Mr. Gerald Milton to the stand.

GERALD MILTON, middle aged and aristocratic takes the stand, and is sworn in by the Bailiff.

SMILEY
Mr. Milton, would you mind telling the court, for the record, what you do for a living?

MILTON
I'm the owner of Miltop Foods, Incorporated.

SMILEY
Miltop Foods? And do you by any chance have a partner?

MILTON
Yes. His name is Henry Hilltop. He's present in the courtroom now.

SMILEY
Just a little curious about the name, that's all...

OVER TO:

Harry leans in to speak to Neil.

HARRY
(Whisper)
It's all show.

NEIL
(Whisper)
I know.

BACK TO SHOT:

SMILEY
Now, the victim was your daughter, correct?

MILTON
Correct.

SMILEY
While she was dating the defendant, did you approve of the match?

MILTON
Most certainly not. I warned her several times that Jimmy Kirk might hurt or abuse her...

NEIL (OS)
Objection, Your Honor.

JUDGE CLARK (OS)
Overruled, Mr. Douglas.

SMILEY
Well thank you, Your Honor. Now, Mr. Milton, did the defendant exhibit any violent behavior towards your daughter?

MILTON
He often threatened to hit her. He was never physically abusive in my prescense though.

At that, Jimmy jumps up.

JIMMY
That's a lie! I never threatened to hurt her, and you know it!

Neil jumps up and tries to restrain him, as does the Bailiff. Judge Clark pounds on his gavel as the reporters eat this up. Harry grabs Jimmy from behind and uses his bulk to restrain him.

JIMMY
I would never hurt Samantha or anyone else, and you know it!

JUDGE CLARK
We will have order here!... Order in the court!

Order is finally restored, and Neil leans in and speaks intensely to Jimmy.

NEIL
Are you trying to get fucking convicted?! Outbursts like that don't sit well with the jury, so no matter what, you gotta trust me. Sit down and shut up!

SMILEY
Now, before we were interrupted there, you said that the defendant was never violent, yet you feared he would be. Now, I'd like to ask you, what happened the night of her murder?

MILTON
She had just come home from her dinner with Dr. Turner. She mentioned that she was tired and wanted to nap, and then she would go out for a jog. After I went to bed, I never saw her again.

SMILEY
Thank you. No further questions, and I'm sorry for your loss, Mr. Milton.

Smiley, knowing that the momentum has swung in his favor, sits down confidantly. Dunn leans in and speaks to him.

DUNN
(Whisper)
That last little condolence was really well done, sir.

SMILEY
Thank you, Dunn.

BACK TO SHOT:

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Douglas?

Neil stands up and crosses over to the witness stand.

NEIL
Mr. Milton, is it not true that Jimmy Kirk never harmed your daughter?

MILTON
Never in my prescense, but I always suspected it.

NEIL
Mr. Milton, did your daughter ever appear bruised or scarred in your prescense?

MILTON
No.

NEIL
Then what leaves you to suspect that she was in danger while she was dating my client?

MILTON
The things he said. Such as one occassion when he said to my daughter "Shut your mouth, or I'll kill you".

NEIL
Oh come on. I've heard many boyfriends say that to the women they're dating. Always playfully. You honestly believe that those men are all threats to their girlfriends?

MILTON
Clearly, that's not always the case. But this man is a professional fighter. No better than a savage. My Samantha deserved alot better than him.

NEIL
At some point, she agreed with you. Now, wait a minute. I have just another question here for you. Isn't it true that right before Samantha started dating Dr. Turner, that she took out a one hundred thousand dollar life insurance policy?

MILTON
It is. But my wife and I are not the beneficiaries. Dr. Turner is.

NEIL
Thank you, sir. No further questions.

Neil walks back to the defense table.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Smiley?

SMILEY
Nothing further at this time, Your Honor.

JUDGE CLARK
In that case, court is adjourned until eleven o'clock tomorrow morning. Bailiff, please remand Mr. Kirk into custody.

Judge Clark pounds the gavel and gets up to leave.

CUT TO:

	26  EXT. COURTHOUSE - SAME  26

Everyone pours out. Neil and Smiley are both being questioned by reporters as the swarm moves on. The last to emerge from the courthouse is Harry Eckhardt. He slowly takes a drink from his flask and winces as he gets the last, strong drop of the hard liquor. He's sluggishly slow in walking down the steps. Not paying any attention to what's behind him, he feels a rough bump and someone run into him. His first instinct is to turn and throw a punch.

HARRY
What the hell's wrong with you?!...

He turns, and meeting his sight is a woman. She is carrying a mound of papers. Intellectual looking and pretty, she is the eternal opposite of Harry. She is kind and isn't affected with his jaded cynicisim. Her name is LAURA HAMPTON. Harry, drops his fist and retreats sheepishly.

HARRY
Sorry. I can see you've got a mound of paperwork there. I'm sorry for trying to hit you.

He turns to leave, but she calls out to him.

LAURA
Wait! Do you think you could help me get these papers to my car. I work for the Judge and he needs me to read over these forms and sign them for next week.

HARRY
Yeah, ok. Gimme a stack of those things.

She hands him some of the mound and she leads the way to her car.

LAURA
If you could just put them there in the passenger seat, I'd appreciate it.

As she gets in, she pauses and steps back out of the car.

LAURA
Wait. What's your name?

HARRY
Harry Eckhardt.

LAURA
Oh, I know your writing. It's very entertaining. I was a journalisim major, but never persued it. I read your article alot though. I really like your opinions.

HARRY
Thanks. Now before you continue to gush anymore about my writing, don't you think you should introduce yourself to me?

LAURA
Sorry. My name is Laura Hampton. It's been a pleasure to meet you, Harry Eckhardt.

HARRY
I'll bet.

As she gets into her car, it starts to rain. A little at first, but it quickly grows heavy.

LAURA
Do you have a ride?

HARRY
No. 

LAURA
Would you like one?

HARRY
No thanks. I can use the exercise.

LAURA
No, I insist. Please, let me give you a ride.

HARRY
Well, if you insist.

He gets in, and the car drives away.

CUT TO:

	27  INT. JAIL - EVENING  27

Jimmy stares out the window of his cell. He watches the evening rain pelt the tiny window. As he lays on his cot, he doesn't notice the guard.

GUARD
Hey greaseball, your girlfriend's here to see you. Since I know you're about to fry, I'll be generous and give you a few minutes.

He unlocks the door so that Colleen can enter. She walks in slowly, head down. The guard locks the door and leaves. Colleen rushes to his side, and he holds her in his arms.

JIMMY
I'm gonna get out of this, honey. Douglas is gonna prove my innocence I can feel it. He's been giving the one-two to that old guy and his lackey.

COLLEEN
I'm scared Jimmy. They're going to call me to the stand tomorrow. I can't do it... I won't be able to last under the pressure!

He kisses her and cups her cheeks in his hands.

JIMMY
Don't worry, darlin. Just don't worry. You're gonna be alright tomorrow.

COLLEEN
I'm scared Jimmy, I can't lose you.

JIMMY
You ain't going to.

CUT TO:

	28  INT. LAURA'S HOME - SAME  28

Laura enters with Harry who helps her place the paperwork on her desk.

LAURA
Thank you, Harry.

HARRY
Sure. Listen, I'm going to get back to work. It was nice meeeting you and so... Keep in touch.

He turns to leave, but she rushes to stop him.

LAURA
Wait! How far is your place from here?

HARRY
In the opposite direction from which we left the courthouse.

He goes to leave again, but Laura tugs on his arm.

LAURA
Please. Don't go.

HARRY
Why not?

LAURA
Because it's raining out there, and you'll catch your death.

HARRY
Oooh, some loss. Not like anyone is gonna mourn my death. Besides, I have a date waiting for me.

LAURA
(Disappointedly)
She must be waiting on you. 

HARRY
Yeah. My finest bottle of Thunderbird whiskey. My flask is empty, and I don't have any cigars left. I gotta get home before I go insane.

LAURA
Oh. So you don't have a girlfriend?

HARRY
Not since I was seven.

He turns to leave again, but she grabs him and forcefully sits him on the couch.

LAURA
Tell me about it. You mean you haven't dated or anything since you were a child?!

HARRY
Well, never past a first date. Listen, I don't feel like talking about it, ok. I don't even really know anything about you, or anything. Now, it was great meeting you, and if you want, you can sit with me during the trial, but if not, please let me go home to my tiny desk, my booze, and my cheap cigars. There's nothing else in the world for me but them.

LAURA
Why not from now on consider me part of your world?

Harry freezes, unable to cope with what he's just heard.

HARRY
You're not serious.

LAURA
Why not? I like you.

HARRY
That'll change.

LAURA
Why do you say that?

HARRY
Because I know myself, that's why. One day you're gonna wake up just like everyone else, and you'll call me a selfish, egotistical fat bastard, and you'll kick me out of your life and then I'd have to try and get over you, and who needs that?!

She laughs, thinking he is joking.

LAURA
Oh c'mon. You're not that bad. I know about you, I've read your writing for years, and I love your no-nonsense attitude. You're very genuine, something that's lacking today. I also happen to think you're very handsome.

He laughs now. This is something he's totally uncomfortable with and it shows.

LAURA
Do you want me to prove it to you?

HARRY
Prove it.

She wraps her arms around his shoulders and kisses him passionately. It's a frozen moment.

HARRY
That was a new expirience.

LAURA
You've never kissed a woman before?

HARRY
No. But I liked it.

LAURA
Would you like to again?

HARRY
With pleasure.

They embrace as we...

CUT TO:

	29  INT. COURTROOM - DAY  29

It's the next morning. Everyone is already inside. Harry can be seen sitting in his usual spot with his foot propped up, looking victorious for the first time in his life. Osgood Smiley notices and decides to prod him about it.

SMILEY
Hello, Eckhardt. You're looking particularly radient for such an early hour, you sot.

HARRY
For your information, oh wise man of law, I met someone whom I consider very special.

SMILEY
Oh god, Eckhardt. Keep your perversions to yourself.

HARRY
I'll be thinking of you, honeybunch.

Smiley still can't beat him and decides not to keep trying. He needs to be Neil Douglas, and he has the perfect weapon. Judge Clark enters and everyone stands and goes through the whole deal, it doesn't need repeated here.

JUDGE CLARK
Is the prosecution prepared to call its next witness?

DUNN
We are, Your Honor. The prosecution calls Ms. Colleen Larson to the stand.

Colleen is lead out. Harry pulls out his pen and paper, not wanting to miss a word. Neil glances at Jimmy reassuringly. Dunn sits and Smiley stands to pull out his biggest weapons.

SMILEY
Ms. Larson, you are in a relationship with the defendant, correct?

COLLEEN
I am.

SMILEY
Has he ever been violent towards you?

COLLEEN
Never. In fact, he often listens to me over anyone else. He trusts me and I trust him.

SMILEY
I see. So, you must've known he was engaging in an affair with the victim, correct?

COLLEEN
That's not true! Jimmy was always loyal to me!

SMILEY
Really?... 

Smiley turns to Dunn, who gives him a picture.

SMILEY (CONT'D)
Then I submit to you and the court as evidence, this picture of the defendant and the victim arm in arm approxamately dated one week before the crime.

NEIL
Objection, Your Honor, how can we be sure of this photo's authenticity, and what's more, how can we be sure that this is the approximate date? I object to this being entered until the defense can properly vouch for the authenticity of this photo.

SMILEY
Your Honor, my office recieved this from the editor of the Pittsburgh News Gazette, Mr. Donald Martin...

Harry's glance shoots up when he mentions his boss.

SMILEY (CONT'D)
Mr. Douglas, may call Mr. Martin as a material witness if he so desires, but until such time, I submit that this photo is in earnest.

JUDGE CLARK
I'll take this in under advisement.

Neil sits down with a huff, knowing that he is in trouble. Smiley goes back to his questioning.

SMILEY
You knew the whole time, didn't you? 

COLLEEN
No, it can't be true!...

SMILEY
Oh, but it is true. Maybe the state isn't accusing the right person? Were you the mastermind behind this plot?... Were you?!

Colleen begins to break down and Neil jumps to his feet.

NEIL
Objection, Your Honor!...

Smiley continues to bludgeon away, even after Judge Clark as sustained and continues to pound his gavel.

JUDGE CLARK
I think you made your point!

Smiley stops and smiles confidantly. Even while Colleen cries, everyone in the courtroom is shocked and appalled. TIGHT ON: every major character present. Even Marcus Dunn is appalled at the display. When Smiley sits down, Dunn stands up.

DUNN
Your Honor, I would like permission to be excused from this case.

SMILEY
Mr. Dunn, what are you doing?!...

JUDGE CLARK
On what grounds, Mr. Dunn?

DUNN
I can no longer work with Mr. Smiley. I would like permission to quit this case.

JUDGE CLARK
Request granted.

SMILEY
Just a moment, Dunn!

DUNN
No more! What you've just done was completely unethical. I happen to agree with Harry Eckhardt now. How do you sleep at night, sir? I am tendering my resignation, and my office will be cleaned out by Monday. I've had enough.

Dunn gathers his briefcase and leaves amid loud applause from Harry. The Judge pounds his gavel and sternly points it in Eckhardt's direction.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Eckhardt, you're lucky I let you stay in this courtroom. Another outburst like that, and I'll clear all reporters from the room, is everyone clear? (Beat) Alright. Mr. Smiley, is there anything further?

SMILEY
No further questions, Your Honor.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Douglas?

Neil pauses for a minute and turns to Jimmy who is hurting inside as well.

JIMMY
Please, let her go...

NEIL
What about everything we talked about, Jimmy?...

JIMMY
Please don't do this to her.

NEIL
Fine.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Douglas, I'm waiting.

Neil stands and buttons his coat. Sweat pours off of him as he is nervous, and not able to hide it.

NEIL
Uh, Your Honor, I would like to request a thirty minute recess for lunch, due to the condition of the witness.

JUDGE CLARK
Request granted. Court will take a thirty minute recess for lunch.

He pounds his gavel and everyone gets up to leave. Neil escorts Colleen off the stand. The Bailiff takes Jimmy away.

NEIL
It's alright, Ms. Larson. It's gonna be ok. I'm gonna get him off the hook with your testimony. Old Osgood can't prove anything. The jury's gonna have to let him off.

COLLEEN
I hope so.

NEIL
Why don't you go to lunch?

COLLEEN
I'd rather just go downstairs to be with Jimmy. Excuse me, Mr. Douglas.

Colleen walks away. Neil goes over to Smiley, who is putting his things in his briefcase.

NEIL
Just where the hell do you get off? There was no reason to hurt that girl like that!

SMILEY
I was searching for the truth.

NEIL
Bullshit! Just because you're losing this case, it gives you no right to pull something like that!

SMILEY
On the contrary, I'm not losing at all. I'm well on my way to winning this case. You should've realized that already. Go to lunch, Mr. Douglas, we'll continue this in a half hour.

Neil walks away and passes Harry.

NEIL
Hey Eck, wanna go to lunch?

HARRY
Actually Neil, I have a prior engagement for lunch.

NEIL
Wait, I thought I actually heard you say you had a lunch date. With who?

Laura appears from the Judge's chambers and walks over.

HARRY
There she is now.

LAURA
Am I interrupting something?

HARRY
Neil Douglas, this is my... Um... Well, wanna go with girlfriend?...

LAURA
That's fine, Harry.

HARRY (CONT'D)
This is my girlfriend, Laura Hampton...

Neil and Laura exchange pleasantries. 

NEIL
You take good care of this big lug. I'm tired of doing it.

Everyone laughs. Osgood Smiley walks by and does a double take before putting it together that this is the girl Harry was talking about.

SMILEY
Why Eckhardt, I had no idea you weren't being sarcastic. So this is the desperate little tramp that decided to shack up with you for the time being?

HARRY
Why, you son of a bitch!

Harry lunges at him, but Neil grabs him. Quickly the fracas decends into fists being thrown, with Smiley landing a good one on Harry. He crumples to the ground, holding his mouth which bleeds.

RIPPLE DISSOLVE TO:

	30  EXT. PLAYGROUND - DAY  30

Clearly, years ago, Harry as a child is being beat down on by a much larger boy, the BULLY is presumably the one from Neil's story. We can identify a chubby little Harry laying on the pavement and the large boy with a girl who is the JESSICA from the story.

BULLY
Nice try. That was way too easy you little fat fuck. I dunno why I wasted my time.

JESSICA
C'mon Junior. Let's get you some lemonade. 

DISSOLVE TO:

	31  INT. COURTROOM - REDUX  31

Harry sits on the floor, just returning from his memory.

SMILEY
You aren't as bullish as you look, Eckhardt. I haven't hit anyone in years, and I didn't even break a sweat.

HARRY
You better watch yourself, old man! You ain't seen nothing yet.

Smiley laughs and exits. Neil and Laura attempt to help him up, but he refuses emphatically.

NEIL
Harry, c'mon. Let's get you cleaned up and I'll buy the two of you lunch.

LAURA
That's very nice of you, Mr. Douglas. C'mon Harry, let's go.

HARRY
No. I need to be alone. Excuse me.

He rushes out, with Laura and Neil right behind him.

CUT TO:

	32  EXT. COURTHOUSE - SAME  32

Harry has managed to disappear from them. Neil and Laura look around anxiously.

LAURA
What was the matter with him?

NEIL
I'll explain on the way. There's only one of two places he could be. We'll take my car.

CUT TO:

	33  INT. HARRY'S APARTMENT - DAY  33

Dispite it being day, Harry's apartment is dimly lit, and is so close to the Steel mill that one can see the smoke through the window. Neil and Laura look frantically around his apartment.

NEIL
Did you find anything?

LAURA
No! Where else could he be?!

NEIL
There is one other place, but we better hurry. Court is in session again in twenty minutes.

CUT TO:

	34  EXT. PLAYGROUND - DAY  34

It's the same one from Harry's flashback, albiet thirty years later, and well abandoned. From the pavement breaks, weeds grow and there is some trash laying around where Harry stands, remembering his ultimate embarrassment. Neil drives up and they see him standing there, until he collapses to his knees and they can see him weep. They quickly rush over to his side.

NEIL
Harry! Come on, Harry. It's over. It's done and there's no changing it. Just come back with us.

HARRY
No! That old son of a bitch!... I'll kill him! I'll kill him!

Harry continues weeping and Laura gives Neil a questioning look while trying to comfort him.

LAURA
The story is true then? He hasn't gotten over it?

NEIL
I'm afraid not. The whole thing has killed him inside. That's why he couldn't stand up while Osgood Smiley was still looking at him. He doesn't have any self-confidence. Let's get him back to the trial. We all need to get back to work.

They help a sobbing Harry back to the car.

LAURA
You don't have to think about it anymore Harry. I love you.

HARRY
You love me? Why don't I believe that anyone could.

NEIL
Listen to her, Eck. She didn't know until I told her. It's ok. She doesn't think you're a coward. She doesn't care about that. Come on buddy, believe her. I do.

HARRY
You really love me?

LAURA
I really, truly do.

NEIL
C'mon, let's get back to Court.

CUT TO:

	35  INT. COURTROOM - DAY  35

Everyone is back from lunch and the Judge is taking his place. Osgood Smiley looks supremely confidant and even gives a playful and mean nod to Harry who covertly gives him the middle finger. Judge Clark pounds the gavel to announce we're back in session.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Douglas?

NEIL
Your Honor, I'd like to recall Colleen Larson.

The Bailiff escorts her back to the stand.

JUDGE CLARK
You do understand, Miss Larson, that you're still under oath?

COLLEEN
I do, Your Honor.

NEIL
Miss Larson, did you know Jimmy was seeing anyone behind your back?

COLLEEN
I believe that photo was doctored. My Jimmy would never do that to me.

NEIL
Ok. Now, for the record, could there have been any way in which Jimmy could've murdered his ex-girlfriend?

COLLEEN
No.

NEIL
And how can you be so sure?

COLLEEN
Because Jimmy was with me.

NEIL
And what were you doing?

Colleen pauses. She doesn't want to say.

JUDGE CLARK
Miss Larson, will you answer the question please?

COLLEEN
I can't...

JUDGE CLARK
You will be held in contempt of court if you don't.

COLLEEN
Ok. Ok. Jimmy and I were having sex at the time of the murder. We were upstairs at my home. He wasn't anywhere near the crime scene and neither was I.

Smiley jumps to his feet.

SMILEY
Objection, Your Honor! The witness never said anything of the kind to the police during interrogation!

NEIL
Oh please! Would you admit something like that to a stranger, no matter how much it may provide an alibi.

SMILEY
There's no other proof other than your word?

NEIL
Why don't we ask Dr. Bradley, who's in the room now. Your Honor, I'd like to excuse the witness.

JUDGE CLARK
Any objection, Mr. Smiley?

SMILEY
Yes, Your Honor. The prosecution has not rested.

NEIL
Check the witness list. Miss Larson was your last one.

SMILEY
True, but Your Honor, it's a point of order.

JUDGE CLARK
Very well. Mr. Smiley?

SMILEY
The prosecution rests, Your Honor.

Neil gives an annoyed look.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Douglas?

NEIL
Your Honor, as my first witness, I call, Dr. Raymond Bradley to the stand.

DR. RAYMOND BRADLEY, a handsome, rugged looking man in his thirties is lead to the stand, and the Bailiff swears him in.

NEIL
Dr. Bradley, I understand that you're an OB/GYN?

BRADLEY
Correct, sir.

NEIL
By a strange coincidence you also were the doctor to both Samantha Milton and Colleen Larson.

BRADLEY
Yes, sir.

NEIL
And since she had been coming to you, was Colleen Larson a virgin?

BRADLEY
Before her last appointment, she was.

NEIL
Was Samantha Milton a virgin?

BRADLEY
No.

NEIL
How can you tell?

Smiley jumps to his feet.

SMILEY
Your Honor, there is a certain morality we should at least keep sacred. Such vile descriptions and perverse pornography doesn't belong in a court of law!

NEIL
Sex is nothing more than a biological function, and in this case, it happens to be relevent!

SMILEY
It is no such thing! It is a religious expirience and a bond that should only be shared between man and wife!

NEIL
But it wasn't and it may save an innocent man from jail! Surely Your Honor's sense of justice and innocence means more than an ideal?

JUDGE CLARK
I'll allow the testimony for what it's worth. I don't condone the explicit nature and ask that anyone in the crowd offended to please step outside before we continue.

There is a pause and no one leaves. This stuff is too good to pass up.

JUDGE CLARK
Let's continue.

NEIL
Now, as I was asking... How can one tell a virgin woman from one who's had sexual relations?

BRADLEY
Well, there is a female body part called the hymen that tears during sex. On the appointment Ms. Larson had the day before the body was discovered, I discovered her hymen still intact. On her next appointment which I had scheduled for two days later because I had noticed an irregularity, I saw that her hymen was torn. So that means on the night in question, she must've been having sex.

NEIL
I see. Thank you, I have nothing further.

Neil sits down. The pendulum has swung once again. This time, Smiley seems to sense that he's going to have a very difficult time.

SMILEY
Dr. Bradley, in your line of work, I assume you could probably attest to the purity of all of your patients, is that correct?

BRADLEY
Oh, yes sir.

SMILEY
You were dating the victim at the time of the murder, were you not?

BRADLEY
I was. We had relations, if that's what you're wondering.

SMILEY
It wasn't. Doctor, to your knowledge, is there any type of doctor in your field that can tell that about men?

BRADLEY
No, there isn't.

SMILEY
Then, how can someone prove it was the defendant having sex with Miss Larson?

BRADLEY
They can't.

SMILEY
Thank you, doctor. That is all.

Smiley walks back to his table and the Bailiff escorts Dr. Bradley back to his seat.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Douglas?

NEIL
Your Honor, the defense calls Jimmy Kirk to the stand.

The Bailiff escorts Jimmy to the stand, and swears him in.

NEIL
Jimmy, when you were arrested, where were you?

JIMMY
I was fighting John Manning.

NEIL
Did you win?

JIMMY
In the eighth round.

NEIL
Now, back to business. Jimmy, that photo that Mr. Smiley submitted to evidence, is it true? Were you seeing Samantha Milton even after your relationship broke off?

Jimmy pauses, unable to tell the truth.

JIMMY
The photo isn't doctored. I did see Sam a few times after we broke off.

There is a audiable gasp in the courtroom.

NEIL
Why?

JIMMY
The sex was good, and neither of us could fully break off. It wasn't until five days before she died that we had fully broken off and decided to continue with our relationships.

NEIL
So, she was cheating on Dr. Bradley, and you were cheating on Colleen?

Jimmy swallows hard and puts his head down, ashamed.

JIMMY
Yes... To both...

NEIL
For the record, where were you during the time of the murder?

JIMMY
I was with Colleen. She said so... I dunno how I can prove it without my word and hers, but that's where the both of us were. 

NEIL
Thanks Jimmy, no further questions.

Neil sits down.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Smiley?

Smiley stands and buttons his white coat.

SMILEY
Jimmy, you had motivation, you had the ability, you don't have a fully verifiable alibi, and you are fully capable of inflicting the kind of injuries that the victim suffered. So, I ask you, how could you possibly think that the jury of your peers could find a reasonable doubt as to your guilt?

JIMMY
Jimmy Kirk doesn't lie!

SMILEY
Well, I'm afraid we'll need something a little more compelling than your word.

Jimmy stares at him angrily.

SMILEY (CONT'D)
You want to hit me, Jimmy? Do you? I bet you want to do to me what you did to that poor girl?... Why did you kill that girl?! Why was it necessary?! Huh?! Answer me?!

NEIL
Objection, Your Honor!

JUDGE CLARK
Objection sustained.

SMILEY
I want an answer! He needs to explain himself! Why would you kill that girl, you goddamn dago?! Huh?!

Smiley has worked himself into a frenzy as he continually beats down Jimmy, who sits there and takes it restrainedly as Smiley turns blue in the face. The old man pounds away, until Judge Clark pounding his gavel intervenes.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Smiley, I think you made your point!... Order in the court!...

Finally, the aged prosecutor catches himself and stops. He looks dazed, as if he were in a trance while he had been yelling.

SMILEY
I have nothing further, Your Honor.

He sits down in a whirlwind. The moment is frozen.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Douglas?

NEIL
The defense rests, Your Honor.

JUDGE CLARK
Court will take a sixty minute recess.

He pounds his gavel and everyone gets up. Before the Bailiff leads Jimmy off, he turns to Colleen who hangs her head in his prescense.

JIMMY
Please forgive me, love. I'm so sorry.

COLLEEN
I forgive you, Jimmy.

He is lead off. We come to FOCUS ON Harry who is still looking down. Laura comes out of chambers and walks over to him putting her arm around his shoulder.

LAURA
Are you alright, Harry?

HARRY
No. I'm not. That goddamned son of a bitch took me down. From what I can see, he's going to lose. He deserves to be taken down too.

LAURA
What happened to you was a long time ago. Don't let yourself worry. It's not worth it. You are wonderful, you're the best writer I've ever known, and you're very handsome.

HARRY
Oh please.

LAURA
No, I mean it. You are. To me, you are.

HARRY
You've got a deluded sense of handsome.

Neil, hearing the conversation, turns around.

NEIL
Harry, if you can't trust someone you love, who can you trust? By the way, how do you think the case is going?

HARRY
They'd be goofy in the head to convict him. The old man has lost his mind.

NEIL
Think so, huh? Well, closings are coming up, and that's where the old man's the strongest.

HARRY
Clarence Darrow trained you. He was king of the closing. This old man is going down... 

NEIL
Here's hoping old friend.

He turns back around to work on the closing arguement. Laura gives Harry a kiss. 

LAURA
You're a very inspiring individual. I love you.

HARRY
Really?... I love me too.

Laura gives him a playful slap and laughs at his joke.

DISSOLVE TO:

	36  INT. COURTROOM - TIME ELAPSE  36

Everyone is seated in the courtroom. Laura has stayed out and holds hands with Harry. Judge Clark wipes his brow and jots down a quick note before giving a rap of his gavel.

JUDGE CLARK
Gentleman, are you prepared for closing arguements?

SMILEY
I am, Your Honor.

NEIL
Yes, Your Honor.

JUDGE CLARK
Very well. Mr. Smiley?

The old man stands. He is still shaken from before, but has regained his old confidence. This is the time that he always shines in.

SMILEY
Gentlemen of the jury, in the past few days, you've heard the case of the disgraceful and cowardly murder of Samantha Milton. Mr. Douglas of the defense would have you believe that there is a reasonable doubt by trying to first pin down her father or her lover, Dr. Bradley. He then coaches the defendant and a witness to claim they were having intimate relations at the time of the murder. Now there is a tale, gentleman. How can there be a reasonable doubt in any of your minds when the evidence clearly points to the defendant. You can ask any civilized human being on the planet, and they would all say the same thing. Don't let an innocent girl's murder go unpunished. Your job as a jury is to implement a verdict of justice. Take that into consideration as you deliberate.

He nods to them and walks away. It was an excellent performance from the aging icon. He has felt this case slipping away, and now feels he's got the jury back in his pocket. After allowing the jury to digest this, Judge Clark turns to Neil.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Douglas?

Neil gets up and puts his hand on Jimmy's shoulder before making his way towards the jury box. He leans against its rail before beginning to speak.

NEIL
Gentlemen, the American justice system is based on innocent until proven guilty. Now I ask you to look deep down within yourselves and wonder whether or not you think my client is innocent. The only way he wouldn't be is for a reasonable, and I emphasize reasonable, doubt enters your mind. In this case, I can tell you why it should. There are a number of people with reasonable motive and oppertunity besides my client to take a young girl's life. It could've been her father, it could've been her boyfriend, it could've been anyone she was associated with. I ask you... Based upon what you've heard... To do the justice system right. Your verdict should be "not guilty".

He pauses. Looks them all over, and walks back to the table. There is another pregnant pause, to allow the jury to digest everything.

JUDGE CLARK
Gentleman of the jury, you have the ultimate descision of guilt or innocence. In the charge of murder in the first degree, it is you who sentances life or death and innocence and guilt. I must remind you that if a reasonable doubt of guilt enters your mind, then you must vote "not guilty". It is a grave task you are assigned with. Thank you, gentlemen.

BAILIFF
The jury will now retire!

He leads them off and locks the door after them. Neil turns to Jimmy and whispers something in his ear. Jimmy then wraps his hands around Colleen who lays her head in his chest.

COLLEEN
I don't want them to take you away from me. Not after this. We have the chance to be so happy together. I pray to god that they aquit you.

JIMMY
They're going to. They're going to cause I'm innocent. We both know I didn't kill that woman. We both know the truth, and I bet the jury knows too.

COLLEEN
God, I hope so. I hope they know the truth.

JIMMY
They do, honey. They do.

DISSOLVE TO:

	37  INT. COURTROOM - TIME ELAPSE  37

The knock at the door is heard, and everyone is on the edge of their seats. Harry leans in to speak to Laura.

HARRY
(Whisper)
That took a long time. That's probably a bad sign.

LAURA
(Whisper)
Why do you say that?

HARRY
(Whisper)
Because this trial went completely Neil's way. It's a sign they took Old Osgood's argument seriously.

OVER TO:

JIMMY
(Whisper)
Can you tell what it is from the faces.

NEIL
(Whisper)
Son, if I never see you again, learn this lesson from me. Never play poker against someone who's spent time on a jury.

COLLEEN
(Whisper)
What do you mean?

JIMMY
(Whisper)
Yeah, I don't get it either.

NEIL
(Whispers)
It just means I can't tell from a blank stare.

JUDGE CLARK
Mr. Foreman, have you reached a verdict?

FOREMAN
We have, Your Honor.

JUDGE CLARK
And what say you?

FOREMAN
In the charge of murder in the first degree, we find the defendant; Jimmy Kirk; Not guilty.

There is an audiable gasp from the audience and Jimmy and Colleen jump up and embrace. Harry congratulates Neil. It's pandemonium.

JUDGE CLARK (OC)
The defendant is free to go. Court is adjourned.

He pounds his gavel and everyone celebrates until Osgood Smiley angrily walks over to them.

HARRY
Oh no, the bearer of all that is destruction. Tell me something for the record and for my paper, how does it feel to have lost your first case when you could've saved yourself the embarrassment and stayed retired?

SMILEY
I came over here to tell you that I know who really killed Samantha Milton.

NEIL
I'm listening. Not that it means a whole hell of a lot now.

HARRY
Yeah, enlighten us, oh wise one.

SMILEY
I did.

From his white coat he pulls out a handgun. Everyone backs away, and he holds it on our protaganists.

COLLEEN
But why?

SMILEY
Because I wanted to prove to the world that I could send another man behind bars! I had the power! This case gave me the oppertunity to ride out into the sunset and maybe retire as a Mayor or the Governor! I strangled her! I beat her to death with the butt of this gun! There's just one more person I've got to take out!

Smiley points his gun to Harry, who reacts quickly, grabs his arm, and punches him in the face. Smiley comes back for a struggle, but the group gangs up on him. Finally, after Jimmy punches him hard in the face and Harry gets the gun, and shoots Smiley, who topples over the table to his death.

LAURA
He deserved it... The bastard.

Harry still looks stunned that he had pulled the trigger. Neil puts his arm around him.

NEIL
It's ok, Harry. I know where you can get a good lawyer.

The two laugh. Jimmy takes Colleen aside and embraces her.

JIMMY
Let's go home sweetheart. I love you.

COLLEEN
I love you too. Let's get the hell out of here.

CUT TO:

	38  EXT. COURTHOUSE - SAME  38

Everyone exits. Harry and Laura first, Neil second, and Jimmy and Colleen last. Reporters question everyone and there is a crowd trying to surround the place. Detective Samuels tries to keep everyone back as it's now a crime scene.

SAMUELS
(Above the din)
Look, I don't care who you are, this is a crime scene now! Get me Sergeant Collins!... Sergeant, I want you to arrest Harry Eckhardt for the murder of Osgood Smiley.

Neil hears this and walks over to Samuels and Collins.

NEIL
Lieutenant, the only people to witness the shooting will all be able to claim it was in self-defense, so if you arrest Harry Eckhardt, I'll tie you up in so much litigation that your grandchildren are gonna need lawyers!

Samuels sighs, and turns around.

SAMUELS
Alright boys. Let's get the courthouse taped off and call the coroner.

He and Sergeant Collins walk off. We FOCUS ON Harry and Laura.

HARRY
Well, I'm glad that's over. What do you say after this we get married, move to sunny California, and have a dozen kids?

LAURA
I'd love that very much.

OVER TO:

Jimmy gets down on one knee and hands Colleen a ring.

JIMMY
I've been waiting a long time to give you this. Will you marry me, Colleen?

COLLEEN
Yes. I love you, Jimmy!

JIMMY
I love you too!

NEIL
Hey, you picked a crazy time to propose. What with the swarming cops and everything.

JIMMY
Yeah, well I figure now was as good a time as any.

Harry, Laura, and Neil see them embrace and applaud. Neil walks over to Harry and Laura and gives Harry a hug.

NEIL
What's next for you two?

HARRY
Well, right now, we're gonna go home.

NEIL
I hope not yours!

LAURA
No way. Harry's gonna move in with me.

She gives him a kiss.

HARRY
What about you, cowboy? Where do you go from here? You'd think if anyone ended up with the girl it would've been you, not me?

NEIL
Well, I'll just do what I've always been doing. Looking out for you, little brother.

The two men laugh and shake hands and head in seperate directions. Neil; alone. Harry; with Laura. Neil glances back at his longtime friend and shakes his head and laughs. He then looks over to Jimmy and Colleen who are still embraced. He sighs again and walks off as we...

FADE OUT.

THE END