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INT. CORRIDOR IN EASTSIDE ASYLUM - NIGHT
Through the barred windows we can see a vicious thunderstorm
taking place outside. We see this corridor is filled with a
few cabinets, but mostly bare. Suddenly, a man quickly runs
across the scene. CAMERA PANS to focus in on him. He slowly
comes to a stop, catching his breath. He seems to be running
from someone or something. This is CASTER FADE (Paul
Schneider). He is wearing standard patient attire, consisting
of a white long sleeved button-up shirt, and matching
bottoms. Caster glances behind him, and then takes off
running again through the corridor.
CASTER FADE (O.S.)
It's funny how after almost killing
yourself, you can find such a
simple reason to stay alive. A
reason to continue living. I guess
you might be wondering what I'm
talking about. Well, I guess I can
tell you my story.
INT. FADE HOME - DAY
'Six Months Earlier' fades onto the screen as we enter the
Fade household. It seems like a decent home, and there are
many appealing aspects about it. Caster walks into the living
room, and sits down, turning on the TV. His son, AARON FADE
walks into the room, and Caster turns, smiling.
LEON FADE
Hi dad!
CASTER FADE
Hey son. What are you up to?
LEON FADE
Not a lot. Tomorrow is my first day
of 1st grade!
Caster smiles, and Leon jumps up onto the couch opposite
Caster's chair.
CASTER FADE
I know! Are you ready? Gonna make
some new friends?
LEON FADE
Yeah! I hope!
Caster and Leon give each other a smile, and KAREN FADE (Kate
Bosworth) walks into the room. Karen is Leon's mother and
Caster's wife. Karen begins picking up some of the clothes
that are on the floor, and Caster turns to her.
CASTER FADE
Honey, don't worry about that. I'll
take care of the laundry.
Karen nods and stops picking up the dirty clothes. She moves
to sit down on the couch with Leon, and begins running her
hand through his hair. Leon smiles.
KAREN FADE
I can't believe you go back to
school tomorrow. Summer went by so
quickly.
CASTER FADE
Well, that's not a bad thing for
him. He's telling me how he can't
wait to make new friends.
Leon smiles to both of his parents, his excitement for school
the next day is evident by his grin and the way he can't seem
to sit still.
LEON FADE
Yeah! School will be fun!
CASTER FADE
(sigh) Well, I guess I better get
downstairs and start the laundry.
It's 5 o'clock, what are we having
for dinner?
LEON FADE
Can we have Mac and Cheese?!
Please?!
Caster and Karen both laugh a bit, and Karen stands up,
stretching.
KAREN FADE
I suppose we could. We'll have
that, and steak. Sound good?
Leon nods in agreement before jumping down off the couch.
Caster turns off the TV and stands up, glancing to the pile
of dirty clothes.
INT. KITCHEN - NIGHT
Caster, Karen, and Leon are all seated around the table,
eating. They all seem to be happy and enjoying the meal.
KAREN FADE
So, Caster, you start your new job
tomorrow.
LEON FADE
(while eating) Where's daddy going
to work now?
KAREN FADE
(smiling) Daddy's going to be a
report filer. He's going to take
the reports everyone else writes
and make sure they go where they
belong.
CASTER FADE
Boring, but it says $8.00 an hour.
Leon gives a small laugh, and Caster and Karen smile to each
other before they all return to eating.
EXT. SCHOOL BUS STOP
Caster and Leon are both waiting at the bus stop. A few other
kids are there as well, but Caster is the only parent there.
Leon turns and reaches into his backpack, and pulls out a
slip of paper.
LEON FADE
This is for my principal, he needs
you to sign it and-
Suddenly the paper, caught by the wind, flies out of Leon's
hand and into the street. Caster sees this, and Leon darts to
grab it, running into the street. Caster tries to grab Leon,
but Leon is too far out of Caster's reach.
CASTER FADE
Leon! No!
The sound of breaks being slammed on, the final scream from
Leon's mouth, and the sound of impact were all signs of
Caster's worst nightmare coming true. Caster watched in
horror as his son was hit by an oncoming car. Leon had just
grabbed the paper he'd lost as it was in the air, and the car
made contact with his body. Leon was slung several feet ahead
of the car, his tiny body not taking much force to send
flying. Caster quickly runs over to his son's body, checking
for any signs of life. The driver of the car steps out, this
is LANCE KING (Chris Evans). Lance, who is dressed in a
business suit, looks on in horror before kicking his car in
frustration and fear.
LANCE KING
Oh Jesus Christ...no!
Karen emerges from the Fade's house, which is only a few
houses down from the bus stop. She takes a minute to observe
the scene, and then she cries out, and runs back into the
house, screaming as she goes back in.
KAREN FADE
I'll call 9-1-1! Oh god....Leon!
Caster tries to find a pulse, but sighs when he can't. A tear
slowly starts rolling down his cheek. His son has blood on
one side of his face, but not a lot. Lance approaches Caster,
but then turns and walks back to the car, not sure what to
do. Lance seems to be freaking out. The distant sound of
sirens breaks through. Caster looks at his son as more tears
roll down his face. He knew that the police and ambulances
were too late. Leon was gone. Caster buried his face into his
son's chest, sobbing.
CASTER FADE (V.O.)
It was over. My son was gone. I
didn't know what to do. It all
happened so fast...24 hours prior
we were happy, smiling, loving.
This was the triggering event in
what would ultimately be my
downfall.
As the police and paramedics surround Caster, he soon becomes
numb. His expression through the sobs seems null and
emotionless. The paramedics have to pry Caster's hand from
his son, and he attempts to stand up, but he collapses in the
street in a sorrowful sob. Karen nears him, grabbing him. She
holds onto him, and the two cry together in the street.
INT. FADE HOME - NIGHT
Karen is sitting on the couch, crying her heart out. Opposite
her is Caster, who has a pure emotionless expression. He
seems to be focused, but not on anything in particular. It is
raining hard outside, a thunderstorm. A loud rip of thunder
startles Karen.
KAREN FADE
(through sobs) I can't believe
it....I just can't believe it.
CASTER FADE
This is my fault, Karen....I tried
to stop him, but I wasn't quick
enough....I could've been though, I
should've been more focused...
KAREN FADE
Please don't blame yourself, it
will only make things worse.
Karen gets up, and moves out of the room. Caster runs a hand
through his hair, the stress of the day's events have visibly
taken a toll on him.
CASTER FADE (V.O.)
There is no worse feeling than
knowing that you were the cause of
someone you love's death. Is there
anything worse than that?
INT. FADE HOME - NEXT DAY
Caster and Karen are both seated on the couch. Karen is
crying a bit, but Caster has a guilty expression on his face.
He is blaming himself for his son's death.
CASTER FADE
This is so messy. We can't afford
all these things. A headstone, a
burial location, jesus....
KAREN FADE
My parents can help with the cost,
Caster..
CASTER FADE
No! Please, don't ask them to do
that. We'll find a way....this Is
just so unexpected.....and unfair.
Caster stands up, and runs a hand through his head. The
emotional stress has affected both of them to the point where
they don't know what they should do. A knock at the door
grabs both of their attention for a moment, and Caster moves
toward the door, opening it. Standing on the other side is
their lawyer, JOHN PRIME (Stacy Keach). Caster steps aside,
and John enters the living room. He nods to Karen, and sits
down in the chair opposite them, setting his briefcase down
on the floor. Caster sits back down with Karen, and wraps one
of his arms around her, trying to comfort her.
CASTER FADE
Well, what's the latest?
JOHN PRIME
(after a sigh) We can't charge the
man that killed your son, Lance
King, with vehicular manslaughter.
The other kids at the bus stop say
Leon ran into traffic and the car
was doing the speed limit. There's
not much we can do there.
Caster gives a sigh of disappointment, even though being
there, he knew the driver wasn't at fault. Karen stands up,
wiping her eyes with her sleeve.
KAREN FADE
Mr. Prime, would you like some
lunch, or maybe a cup of coffee?
John shakes his head no, and Karen moves into another room.
Caster shifts his position, and John opens his briefcase. He
pulls out a few papers, and tosses them onto the coffee table
in front of Caster.
JOHN PRIME
We also arn't able to get much in
terms of financial aid for the
burial, headstone, and ambulance
and hospital fees. Those are going
to have to be outright from you.
CASTER FADE
(looking up, disapproving) No. No
way. We can't afford a burial,
hospital bills, a headstone, no
way. Please, there has to be-
JOHN PRIME
Nothing. The insurance companies
are refusing to aid due to the
driver not being at fault, and
ironically enough the benefit plans
for the death of children have very
strict guidelines, and nothing
falls into place. I'm sorry,
Caster. The best I can advise you
to do is have a smaller funeral,
maybe have him cremated. The
hospital and ambulance fees arn't
bad, but not exactly cheap either.
You're looking at $1000 there
alone.
CASTER FADE
(putting his head into his hands)
Jesus Christ you've got to be
kidding me...
John looks to Caster with sympathy, and takes the papers from
the coffee table, putting them back into the briefcase. Karen
is peering into the room, still crying.
JOHN PRIME
If there's anything I can do, let
me-
CASTER FADE
(angry) You were the lawyer for
this city's biggest serial killer,
Leer Phantom. The town knew he was
guilty, should've been given the
chair. But you managed to get him
off, and he got sent to an asylum.
He gets out next year. You managed
to do THAT, but you can't get us
ANY FINANCIAL AID?!
Caster stands up, pissed off. Karen quickly walks into the
room, and wraps her arms around him, trying to stop him.
KAREN FADE
Caster, please! Don't! He's our
friend!
Caster, slowly letting the rage go, slumps back down, and
Karen, who has stopped crying for the moment, holds him in a
hug.
CASTER FADE
I'm sorry, John. It's-
JOHN PRIME
Don't be. I can't imagine the
stress you both are under. I'll
continue looking into more options.
You two just hang in there, please.
John grabs his briefcase, and leaves the house. Karen
releases Caster from the hug, and stands up. Caster shakes
his head in disbelief.
CASTER FADE
How are we going to do this, Karen?
A thousand dollars in hospital
bills alone.
KAREN FADE
(starting to cry again) We'll find
a way, Caster. My parents can help.
I just....can't believe Leon is
gone..
Caster waits a moment, and then looks up to her. He slowly
nods his head.
CASTER FADE
I know...I know.
EXT. WESTSIDE PARK - DAY
'2 Weeks Later' flashes on the screen. We see Caster stepping
out of his car, and holding an urn. He walks up onto the
ledge, and into the park. A few people were in the park,
either children playing on the playground or elderly people
out for a stroll, getting some exercise. Caster makes his way
to a spot near the playground, setting the urn down.
CASTER FADE (V.O.)
We decided to have Leon cremated. I
would've liked a proper burial, but
financial restrictions wouldn't
allow that. Instead of scattering
his ashes, we figured we would
leave them at the place he loved
most. God, he loved the playground.
The swings were his favorite, and
he always let me get him started
with a few powerful pushes. The
jungle gym was fun, too. Climbing
with him. The playground seemed
like the most appropriate place. He
loved it. Karen didn't want to come
set them down with me. She said she
couldn't handle it. I had to. I
needed to.
Caster closes his eyes as he sets the urn down, and doesn't
move for a moment, leaving a hand on the urn. A few tears
roll down his cheeks, falling to the ground beside the urn.
He wipes the tears away with his sleeve before more start
coming, and he stands up.
CASTER FADE
There you go Leon....I'll miss you,
buddy. I love you.
Caster starts crying, and then turns, walking away back to
his car.
INT. REPORTING OFFICE - NEXT DAY
Caster is shifting through files, trying to get his job done.
The computer in front of him is off, and his small office
seems to be getting messy. He opens a file cabinet near him,
and pulls out three different sets of files. Setting them on
his desk, he closes the cabinet, and begins opening the
files, making sure everything is in place. The door to his
office opens, and he turns. Walking in is his boss, PETER
LEXINGTON.
PETER LEXINGTON
Caster, you know you didn't have to
come back to work this early.
Caster looks back to the files he was going over, and then
stands up.
CASTER FADE
Yeah, I know. But I need to stay
busy. Otherwise, I would just be
sitting around, doing
nothing....thinking about him.
Peter and Caster meet eye-to-eye. Peter nods a bit, and
Caster grabs his jacket from the back of his chair.
CASTER FADE
Um, anyways. I guess my shift's up.
I'll try to get those files done
tomorrow. It's been hell trying to
catch up.
PETER LEXINGTON
(nodding) Alright. Just, don't rush
through. Make sure everything is
fine. Please. I've got a deal going
through tomorrow with the Iowa
State Bank and I can't have the
files all messed up.
Caster nods, and Peter steps aside. Caster exits the room,
and Peter takes one glance around before closing the door
behind him, leaving.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM - DAY
A man being escorted by two guards down a corridor is shown.
The man has long brown hair, and a scar that runs from the
right side of his temple down to the right side of his chin.
This is LEER PHANTOM (Johnny Depp). The men and patient stop
in front of a door reading 'Dr. Rynn'. One of the guards step
forward, and knock on the door. A voice comes from the other
side.
VOICE (O.C.)
Come in!
INT. ASYLUM DOCTOR'S OFFICE - DAY
The guards bring Leer into the room, and he sits down in one
of the small chairs opposite the doctor's desk. On the other
side of the desk is mature, but not exactly old, female. She
is wearing a pair of glasses, and a gray sweater. This is DR.
WENDY RYNN (Charisma Carpenter). She looks up to the guards
and smiles
DR. RYNN
Thank you, guards. We'll be fine.
He gets out in thirty minutes.
Both of the guards grunt and exit the room, closing the door
behind them, leaving Leer and the doctor alone. Leer glances
around, shifting his position. The doctor looks over a few
files, and then up to him.
DR. RYNN
Leer Phantom. First off, what's
your real name?
Leer stares at the ground, and the doctor awaits an answer.
When one doesn't come, she sighs.
DR. RYNN
Like it or not, Leer, we are stuck
together for the next 30 or so
minutes. You could at least make
this easier for both of us by
cooperating.
Leer sighs, and then answers.
LEER PHANTOM
I'm not giving you my real name.
Because I'm a different person now.
I am Leer Phantom. The cops have
tried everything. Finger prints,
photo ID scans, and whatever the
hell else all those computers can
do, and it's returned nothing.
Because I became Leer Phantom
before I was legal.
Dr. Rynn is typing all of this information into the computer.
She turns to him after she's done.
DR. RYNN
So, you became 'Mr. Phantom' before
you were eighteen. How old are you
now?
LEER PHANTOM
Thirty nine. Fourty next month.
DR. RYNN
(as she is typing information into
the computer) You know, I've never
interviewed such an infamous killer
before.
LEER PHANTOM
Is that what you call it? Because
the other inmates call them psych
sessions, the guards call them the
insane tests, and the warden calls
them evaluations.
DR. RYNN
Well, isn't the first session
always an interview? I have to get
to know you.
LEER PHANTOM
Please don't sugarcoat it. In the
end, you're doing this for the
paycheck at the end of the week, so
the least you could do for me is
not pretend like you give a shit
about me or anyone else in this
facility.
Dr. Rynn and Leer stare at each other for a moment, and then
she clears her throat, before turning off the computer
monitor.
DR. RYNN
Fine. I guess we'll do this your
way.
She moves several pieces of paper on her desk, and underneath
is a tape recorder. She turns it off, and looks to him.
DR. RYNN
Nothing recorded, nothing saved.
Nothing will be on the record. Just
you and me. No security cameras,
only my memory and your story to
tell.
LEER PHANTOM
There is no story.
DR. RYNN
(sighing) Fine. I guess we can
start somewhere relatively recent.
Why did you kill all those people?
LEER PHANTOM
I killed 5 people. That's not a lot
in today's society, and they
deserved it. Everyone I killed had
killed someone else out of spite.
Dr. Rynn is studying Leer as he talks. Leer seems impatient,
and not wanting to talk about himself or his story.
DR. RYNN
You're a serial killer, Leer.
Leer looks up to her, and shakes his head. She perks up,
curious and fascinated.
DR. RYNN
Are you denying the fact that
you've killed 5 people, one being a
19 year old male at college?
LEER PHANTOM
I'm not denying anything.....I
killed all of those people. But
'killed' can be synonymous with
deserving to die.
DR. RYNN
You seem to be trying to justify
the fact that you're a killer.
Leer sighs, and runs his hands through his hair. Dr. Rynn
moves to sit beside him. She obviously feels safe, seeing him
and handcuffs and ankle chains.
DR. RYNN
From my experience, you seem to be
in denial, Leer. You-
LEER PHANTOM
(snapping) I'm not in fucking
denial. I would've never admitted
to killing those people if I did.
They all deserved what they had
coming to them.
Dr. Rynn moves back to her desk, seeing Leer snap made her
feel insecure. She glances toward him.
DR. RYNN
What makes you feel like you have
to give people what they deserve?
Leer stands up, and starts pacing across the room, either
bored or trying to avoid the barrage of questions coming his
way.
LEER PHANTOM
If I don't....who will?
DR. RYNN
Well, in religion, Christians and
Catholics, along with a few others,
believe a more powerful being such
as God has the power to do that.
LEER PHANTOM
(laughing a bit) Religion...
DR. RYNN
You're not a religious man?
LEER PHANTOM
(sitting down, smirking) Do you
really think, if I was a Christian,
I would've did what I did?
According to their set of rules,
the 'sins', I'll be banished to
hell for all of eternity.
DR. RYNN
So, what do you believe?
LEER PHANTOM
I don't know....I'm Skeptical about
believing in something that isn't
proven to exist. But I'm not so
narrow minded that I've ruled it
out as not being possible all
together. Ask me in 20 years, doc.
Then I'll be able to answer you. As
for what happens when you
die...well, I've always leaned more
towards an afterlife of sort.
Something to look forward to, at
least. I don't think it's over when
you die.
INT. FADE HOME, KITCHEN - DAY
Caster is making a sandwich. The kitchen seems to be messy,
likely from the neglect Caster and Karen and given the house
because of their son's death. Caster turns around when the
back door opens, and Karen comes through.
She seems visibly depressed. She sets a newspaper she got
from outside onto the table. Caster looks to her, and she
sighs.
KAREN FADE
...it's never going to get better.
We'll never be the same.
CASTER FADE
We'll never forget about it, but
everyone's been telling us to wait.
That's all we can do.
KAREN FADE
(starting to cry) Caster, what-
CASTER FADE
(annoyed) Karen, please. I've got
to go apply for loans because we
can't afford the burial fees,
hospital bills, and all that.
Please don't start crying.
Karen seems taken aback, and Caster grabs his sandwich, and
moves into the next room.
INT. JOHN PRIME'S OFFICE - DAY
Caster is seated in John Prime's office, which is very
formal. Expensive wood compromised the floor while the chair
Caster was seated in was one-hundred percent leopard fur.
Caster feels visibly out of place at such an expensive
office. John is seated across from him, typing into a laptop
computer. Caster runs a hand through his hair, upset about
their financial situation and the fact that they have to take
out a loan.
JOHN PRIME
(while typing) Well, the best place
to get a loan over the internet is
through a company called 'LoanNow'.
They have the lowest interest rate,
too. A $5000 loan should cover all
the hospital bills, ambulance fees,
get you guys back on track, yeah?
Caster hesitates, and then nods slowly. John enters a few
more things into the computer, and then nods.
JOHN PRIME
It's now in your checking account.
$5000 dollars. I suggest using the
bare minimum, use it only for the
bills. Then, start payback. Don't
get behind.
CASTER FADE
(emotionless) We won't. Thanks,
John.
INT. REPORTING OFFICE - NEXT NIGHT
Caster is sitting at his desk, basically a mess. His hair is
uncombed, tie is halfway undone and his sleeves are rolled
up. He's staring into the computer screen in front of him. He
sighs, and closes his eyes. A knock on the door momentarily
distracts him from the computer screen.
CASTER FADE
Yeah...come on it.
Peter Lexington, Caster's boss, walks in. He has a file in
his hands, and appears very nervous. Caster stands up, and
glances to a clock in the room. It reads '7:56 P.M.'. Caster
directs his attention toward Peter. Peter is displeased with
Caster's appearance, evident by the expression on his face.
PETER LEXINGTON
Caster, um, remember when I told
you to be sure those files were in
order, and I had a big meeting?
CASTER FADE
Yeah..what happened, Peter?
PETER LEXINGTON
Several were missing! What
happened?!
Caster sighs, and puts both of his hands on his face,
grunting a bit, followed by a large sigh.
CASTER FADE
I don't know. I could've sworn-
PETER LEXINGTON
(lecturing Caster) I told you not
to come back so early. I don't see
how anyone could expect to do well
with their son's death such a short
time ago. Your work's been
decreasing in effort and quality at
a steady pace ever since!
CASTER FADE
I know, Mr. Lexington. Please, let
me-
PETER LEXINGTON
No. I can't take any more chances
with you, Caster. I can't risk my
ass, and this company, on you and
your reports. When I gave you this
job, I thought you could handle it.
CASTER FADE
(getting mad) Like I could predict
my own son's death?!
PETER LEXINGTON
I gave you 2 weeks to a month off!
TWO WEEKS TO A MONTH! You came back
in one week. I'm not the one at
fault here! Get your stuff and get
out. You're done.
CASTER FADE
(surprised) W-what? No, you-
PETER LEXINGTON
It's done, Caster. I'm not going to
do it. It's over.
Caster sighs, and then falls to his knees, placing a hand on
Peter's thigh.
CASTER FADE
(begging) Please, Peter. We just
took out a huge loan. We can't do
all of this. My wife's going to
blow up! Please, one more-
Peter knocks Caster's hand off, and looks down to him.
PETER LEXINGTON
I'm sorry Caster. It's just not
happening.
Caster hesitates, and then springs up, and in anger, grabs
the computer monitor and yanks it free from all the cords
before forcefully smashing it into the ground in front of
Peter. The pieces of shattered glass go flying, and Caster
proceeds to do the same with the computer tower, and then he
flips over his entire desk, all in a fit of rage and
frustration. His face is entirely red. Peter has his back to
the door, afraid of Caster. Caster slowly starts catching his
breath, before falling to his knees, and tears start leaking
from his eyes.
CASTER FADE
Fuck. Fuck....Fuck! Leon....no!
Jesus fucking christ!
Peter pulls out his cell phone, and dials a phone number.
Afraid, he speaks in a low voice when someone picks up.
PETER LEXINGTON
Karen? It's Peter....you need to
get down here now, Caster's,
well....he's a wreck. You need to
see for yourself.
INT. FADE HOME - NIGHT
Karen slowly sets the phone down, and grabs the keys off of a
small table. She hurries out the door, cocerned about her
husband.
INT. REPORTING OFFICE - NIGHT
Karen comes through the door to see Caster leaning against a
wall, crying. Peter is on the other side of the room, along
with a police officer. Karen moves into the room, and kneels
by Caster.
KAREN FADE
Jesus Caster, what happened?
Caster remains unresponsive, just crying his heart out. The
room is still trashed, and the officer is talking to Peter,
taking notes.
KAREN FADE
(sighing) Caster, honey, please
talk to me. You're going to make me
cry too. I know...I know you miss
him.
Karen wraps her arms around Caster, and he hesitates, but
wraps his arms around her. The Officer approaches both of
them, and looks to Caster and Karen. Karen waits a moment,
and then stands up.
OFFICER
I'll need to take a statement with
you outside about his mental
health, but as it stands of now,
Mr. Lexington won't sue for any of
the damaged property, but a
restraining order is being
compromised. If Caster comes within
100 feet of this building or Mr.
Lexington's home, he will be fined
heavily. You can take him home now.
Karen nods, and Caster slowly gets up, still crying. He wipes
his eyes, and as Karen and the Officer leave, Caster looks to
Peter.
CASTER FADE
I...I'm sorry, Peter.
Peter nods, and Caster moves through the door, leaving. Peter
stares at the wreck of a room, and shakes his head.
EXT. FADE HOME - NIGHT
Karen and Caster pull into the driveway. Everything seems
silent.
INT. KAREN'S CAR - NIGHT
Karen and Caster look forward, both staring at their house.
Caster wipes his eyes, and Karen unbuckles her seatbelt.
KAREN FADE
Caster, I took care of the medical
bills. $3000. The other $2000 we'll
keep, put towards paying the loan
back.
CASTER FADE
Um...what about your parents? Did
they pitch in?
KAREN FADE
(looking to Caster, disgusted)
What, were you expecting them to?
CASTER FADE
Well, no, you just said they might.
Karen exhales deeply before exiting the car. Caster remains
in the car, and Karen heads for the front door.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM, GARDEN
Leer Phantom is seated in the gardens on a bench, a book in
his lap. He reads from it, and sips from the water bottle he
is holding. Few other patients are also walking around the
gardens. A large patient, DEAN FRYE (Peter Stormare),
approaches him. Leer looks up to see Dean staring down at
him. Dean bats Leer's book away to the ground.
DEAN FRYE
Hey faggot. How did you get
admitted into the madhouse?
Shouldn't you be on death row? Oh,
that's right. That rich ass lawyer
of yours got you stationed here
because you're all...mental and
shit. Right?
LEER PHANTOM
Dean, I was admitted two weeks ago.
Why are you still acting like it's
new news?
Dean smacks Leer across the face, and Leer looks up, angry.
DEAN FRYE
Because I can, you bitch.
LEER PHANTOM
Just leave me alone, Dean.
Leer attempts to get it, but Dean, easily overpowering Leer,
shoves him back down. Leer remains unintimidated, but seems
cautious.
DEAN FRYE
You killed 5 people. Why don't you
kill me too? Whatsamatter, ain't
got the balls?
Leer clenches his fists, prepared to hit Dean. Dean laughs,
and suddenly Dean gets clubbed in the back of the head with a
nightstick. Dean falls to the ground, unconscious.
Leer glances behind Dean as he falls to see a security guard,
shaking his head.
GUARD
Poor bastard. I told you, if you
start something again, you get
isolation. Enjoy your week-long
stay in the pit, pal.
Two other guards move to the sides of the unconscious Dean,
and lift him up. They grunt as they haul him off. Leer sighs
deeply, and picks up his book. Dr. Rynn comes into view, and
sits next to him.
DR. RYNN
Leer. How are you holding up?
LEER PHANTOM
(sarcastic) Can't you tell? I'm
making friends already.
DR. RYNN
I wanted to talk to you about the
victims you killed.
Leer hesitates, and then stands up, and walks away with his
book. Dr. Rynn sighs, knowing it won't be easy to get Leer to
cooperate.
INT. FADE HOME - NIGHT
Caster is seated on the couch, his head in his hands. Karen
is paciong infront of him, she is crying but appears angry.
KAREN FADE
Your job?! Your job, Caster? Why?
Jesus, we needed that m-
CASTER FADE
I know we did, Karen. I even begged
Peter for another chance. I was
just too big of a risk for him.
Karen wipes her eyes, and it's not long before more tears
start forming.
KAREN FADE
This whole thing...Leon....god,
Why?! Why god?!
CASTER FADE
Yelling at God isn't going to bring
our son back.
Karen sighs, and sits down in a chair opposite Caster. She
wipes her eyes again, and grabs the phone near her. She
hesitates, and stares at Caster.
KAREN FADE
I need to tell you something,
Caster.
CASTER FADE
(impatient) What is it?
KAREN FADE
I'm going to stay with my sister
for a bit. This isn't working out.
I think we need a break.
Caster's jaw drops open, and he shakes his head.
CASTER FADE
No no no no no, please Karen,
please!
Karen lets a few more tears roll from her eyes before
speaking.
KAREN FADE
We need time apart. Please
understand, Caster.
CASTER FADE
Don't...please don't Karen. We lost
Leon, don't make me lose you, too.
Karen stands up, and shakes her head.
KAREN FADE
I'm sorry, Caster. I'll be back
tomorrow to get my things.
Karen exits through the front door, and a distraught and
stressed out Caster shakes his head. He seems very upset, but
he isn't crying.
INT. WENDY'S HOUSE - THE NEXT WEEK
Karen is seated with her sister, WENDY, in the living room.
Wendy's house seems much more formal and fancy than the Fade
House. Karen and Wendy are both watching TV. Wendy mutes the
TV and turns to Karen.
WENDY
Hey sis, are you doing alright?
KAREN FADE
I think so. Better. I'll never be
the same though.
Wendy nods, and turns back on the TV. It's evident that Karen
is indeed getting better, showing by her laughing at the TV
show occasionally. But she still seems depressed.
INT. JOHN PRIME'S OFFICE
Caster is seated once again across from John Prime. This
time, Caster appears worse. It's evident he hasn't shaved in
a bit, his hair is longer and messier, and his clothes
consist of a halfway-unbuttoned business shirt and a tank top
underneath with slacks and a brown belt. Caster stares at
John, who is writing down some information.
JOHN PRIME
Well Caster, you didn't make any
payment on the loan this month.
It's the 3rd today, where's some
money?
CASTER FADE
I know...it's hard. The money's all
in my wife's bank account, but
we're not living together anymore,
and I haven't heard from her.
JOHN PRIME
Are you doing alright, man? You're
a wreck.
CASTER FADE
(shaking his head) I don't know...
JOHN PRIME
What have you been doing every day?
You must be falling back on bills,
you have no job.
CASTER FADE
Job...I can't maintain a job. I
mean, I cried for four hours last
night over my son's death. He died
almost a month ago. Isn't that
pathetic? Shouldn't I be getting
better?
JOHN PRIME
Not necessarily. Look, we all know
these things take time. I just
think you should come stay with me.
I can cook, I-
CASTER FADE
No. I can't ask that from you,
John. I'll be alright. Guess I just
need to get back on my feet.
Thanks, man.
Caster stands up, and grabs a form from John's desk. Caster
turns and exits the room, and John watches him leave. Once
Caster is gone, John eases backwards in his chair, placing a
hand on his chin.
JOHN PRIME
Jesus christ..........
INT. FADE HOME 2 DAYS LATER
Karen comes through the door, and is taken back by how worse
the home has gotten. It is very messy, and it appears Caster
has not been cleaning up or taking care of the house. She
walks into the living room to find Caster awake, staring at a
picture of Leon. His eyes appear red, showing he had probably
been crying. The entire living room is littered with clothes,
empty food wrappers, cups, and trash. Karen looks at Caster,
who is now sporting a beard and dirty clothes.
KAREN FADE
Jesus Caster...
CASTER FADE
You can't say anything....I begged
you not to leave.....and you did.
Big surprise. People have been
abandoning me my whole life. Guess
this one really hit home.
KAREN FADE
Caster, um, what's wrong?
CASTER FADE
(looking to the picture) I...miss
him. So much.
Karen stares at Caster, and Caster sighs, closing his eyes,
trying to fight back tears.
KAREN FADE
We have to get through this. We
can.
CASTER FADE
(laughing) You left me, remember?
There is no 'we'.
Karen sighs, and glances to the coffee table infront of
Caster. A picture of Lance King, the man who killed Leon, is
on top of it.
KAREN FADE
(picking up the picture)
Jesus...what were you going to do?
CASTER FADE
Nothing.
KAREN FADE
(worried) Don't lie to me. Jesus,
no. No. You need help. God,
Caster..it'll be ok. Please, trust
me.
Karen darts for the front door, and Caster hesitates, but
decides against getting up and following her.
INT. FADE HOME - NIGHT
Caster is asleep on the floor, wearing a tank top and slacks.
The door is opened, and Caster leans up quickly. Two people
enter, they are a GUARD and DR. RYNN. Caster stands up, very
confused.
CASTER FADE
What the hell is go-
GUARD
Sir, we need you to come with us.
Your wife recently called Eastside
Asylum and told us you were in dire
need for help.
CASTER FADE
No no, you see, the-
GUARD
It's not a choice. Look at this
place. She's right. We can do this
the easy way, or I have to take you
out of here in handcuffs. What's it
going to be?
Dr. Rynn observes Caster, and the guard stares at him. Caster
hesitates, confused and mad, and then sighs.
CASTER FADE
Can I get dressed? Shower?
The guard nods, and Caster moves toward the bathroom.
INT. CAR - DAY
The guard is driving, and Dr. Rynn and Caster are in the back
seat. Caster is shaking his head a bit, staring out the
window.
CASTER FADE
So all I have to do is report that
someone's insane and you guys go
bust into his house and take 'em
away?
DR. RYNN
No, there's a procedure. But from
the way your house looks, and with
your son's recent death, your wife
is right. You could only benefit
from time here.
CASTER FADE
(after a small laugh) Yeah, it's
not like people don't spend their
whole lives in these places.
Dr. Rynn sighs, and the guard drives through the entrance.
Caster glances to the big sign welcoming him in. It reads
'WELCOME TO EASTSIDE ASYLUM'.
INT. DR. RYNN'S OFFICE - DAY
Caster is seated opposite Dr. Rynn. He is now in standard
patient clothing. Caster seems very bored and impatient,
tapping his foot on the ground while Dr. Rynn types into the
computer. She stops for a moment and glances to him.
DR. RYNN
Allergic to any medication?
Caster sighs and looks to her.
CASTER FADE
Can't you just get my file from my
doctor or something?
Rynn hesitates, and then continues typing into the computer.
She finally turns to him and glances down at a piece of
paper.
DR. RYNN
Alright Mr. Fade, right now you've
been diagnosed as being extremely
depressed, which in turn is caused
by your son's death and your wife
leaving you, and possibly mild
insanity.
CASTER FADE
(laughing a bit) *Mild* insanity?
They have rankings to these now?
DR. RYNN
No, it's a more formal way of
saying it. In your terms, you've
just got a clouded mind. You don't
know what your thinking because
your judgement is so clouded by
recent events.
CASTER FADE
So what, if I suddenly want to kill
an insect, it's because my son died
and I'm looking to be more violent,
it's not because the insect is
bothering me?
DR. RYNN
It's more complicated than that.
But right now, it's lunch time. The
guards outside will escort you to
the cafeteria.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM, CAFETERIA - DAY
Caster is sitting at a table by himself. About 50 other
patients are in the cafeteria. Leer Phantom is on the
opposite side of the cafeteria, eating alone as well. Caster
glances in his general direction, and his jaw drops. Caster
calls a guard over to his table.
CASTER FADE
Is that the serial killer? Leer
Phantom?
LUNCH GUARD
Yes it is. Before you ask, we give
every inmate one chance to be able
to set their own appointments, eat
with others, and have a regular
day. If they mess that up, then we
do isolation.
Caster nods, and the guard goes through a door. Suddenly Dean
Frye, the inmate that almost fought Leer, sits down next to
Caster. Caster turns to him, and Dean smiles largely.
DEAN FRYE
Well howdy-fuckin'-do, son. Around
here, they call me the warden.
CASTER FADE
Well then, warden, why arn't you in
your office?
DEAN FRYE
(laughing) Oh, I don't mean i'm the
warden of the asylum. I'm the
warden of the patients. You do what
I say, when I say it, and I let you
live.
CASTER FADE
Easy pal. I don't want any trouble.
DEAN FRYE
(sarcastic, laughing) Oh?
Dean picks up Caster's tray of food and slings it onto the
floor, spilling it. This attracts all of the other patient's
attention, including Leer's. They all gather around in a
circle. No guards are in sight. Dean smiles, and Caster
stands up.
CASTER FADE
(pleading) Come on man, don't-
DEAN FRYE
Now now, don't cry me a fuckin'
river, son. All new patients go
through this, we call this
initiation. I'll give you a hint:
Once you're down, stay down.
Dean laughs, and readies an attack, lifting his fist into the
air.
LEER PHANTOM
Stop!
Dean sighs, and turns to come face-to-face with Leer Phantom.
Dean cracks up at seeing Leer.
DEAN FRYE
Well, I'll be damned. If it isn't
Mr. Serial Killer coming to the
rescue. Hey Mr. Serial Killer, can
you say IRONY?
LEER PHANTOM
Can you say, back the hell off or
I'll jab a fuckin' pen into your
throat?
All the patients seem to gasp, it's obvious nobody has taken
a stand against Dean before.
MALE PATIENT
Hey! Leer Phantom you fuck, you
killed my friend!
The inmate charges, and tackles Leer onto the floor. The
patients start hollering and chanting 'Fight! Fight!'. Dean
turns back to Caster, who backs up to the wall. Dean charges,
and Caster dives out of the way. Dean stops just before
making contact into the wall
DEAN FRYE
Can't run forever, son!
Leer shoves the male patient off of him, and pulls a pen from
his pocket. He removes the cap, and wields it as a melee
weapon.
LEER PHANTOM
Don't! Or I will use this!
The inmate charges again, but a flashbang grenade thrown from
a guard goes off, and all the patients are blinded for a
moment. The guards tackle the male inmate, Leer, and Dean.
Caster manages to fall back into the group that was watching
him earlier, eliminating him as a suspect.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM, CELL - NIGHT
Caster lies in his bed. He is the only one in his cell, not
having a cellmate. The asylum seems to be in dead silence,
but that's broken by inmate snores or guards doing their
rounds. Caster is awake, and he sighs, running a hand through
his hair.
CASTER FADE (V.O.)
This was insane, no pun intended.
How the hell could Karen send me
here? Oh hell, who knows. Maybe I
am insane. One thing's for sure,
being in the same asylum as the
city's most infamous serial killer
sure can't look good on your
'patient history' slip. This place
is for insane people, not people
who lost their kid and their life.
This is bullshit! God...I miss
Leon. Maybe I am insane....but then
again, who hasn't thought about
doing something really fucked up to
the guy who killed their kid?
INT. WENDY'S HOUSE - NEXT DAY
Karen walks into view, where Wendy is asleep in the living
room, on the couch. The TV is on, but muted. Wendy wakes up
after hearing Karen sit down. She leans up, yawning.
WENDY
Hey sis.
KAREN FADE
Wendy, do you think what I did was
right? I mean, maybe Caster
shouldn't be in an asylum.
WENDY
Too late now. They're only going to
release him when they think he's
better. You said it yourself, you
thought he was only getting worse.
KAREN FADE
(shaking her head) Yeah, but...it's
more complicated than that.
WENDY
It always is.
KAREN FADE
I think I'm going to go see his
doctor today, see how bad it
actually is.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM, CAFETERIA - DAY
Caster is eating breakfast. Dean is nowhere to be seen,
likely put away in isolation. Leer Phantom sits down at the
table with Caster. Caster becomes uneasy and pulls his tray
toward him.
LEER PHANTOM
You mind?
CASTER FADE
No, sure, go ahead. I mean, yeah.
Leer glances up to Caster, and can easily tell he is nervous.
Leer laughs a bit.
LEER PHANTOM
It's easier if you didn't make it
so hard on my part.
CASTER FADE
Well, I bet you're used to being
stared at by now.
Leer nods, and takes a bite of the food. Caster hesitates,
then speaks up.
CASTER FADE
Um, probably never done this
before, but thanks for yesterday. I
would've gotten killed in that
fight.
LEER PHANTOM
One, it was no problem. Guy's been
messing with me since I've been
here too.
And two, he can't fight at all. I
mean, his size, he can overpower
you, but his reaction time is so
slow you could hit him at least
three times before he'd block.
Caster stares at Leer, obviously still a bit nervous.
LEER PHANTOM
Don't be afraid to ask me anything.
I'm sure your curious. Everyone is.
I'm like a celebrity around here.
Then again that's nothing to be
proud of. But really, any question
you have the doc's probably already
asked, so humor me.
CASTER FADE
Er...well...why did you do it?
LEER PHANTOM
(after taking a drink) Everyone
I....killed, They had killed
someone else. Not for personal
redemption or for vengeance, it was
purely out of the blue.
Caster nods, and a bell goes off, signaling lunch is over.
Leer stands up and Caster follows as they file back toward
their cells.
INT. DR. RYNN'S OFFICE - EVENING
Karen sits inside Dr. Rynn's office. It is the evening, and
Dr. Rynn appears impatient and tired.
DR. RYNN
Well, he appears to be depressed,
likely over his son's death and you
leaving him. There's a lot of
phrases and ideas I could throw at
you, but they wouldn't make since
to you. So, to sum it all up, he's
probably mildly insane.
There's no real set trigger that
could cause him to go off, but you
don't want to try anything out of
the ordinary to see if you can get
away with it, if that makes sense.
KAREN FADE
Oh....god. Jesus, my ex-husband is
insane...
DR. RYNN
It's not as bad as you think.
Believe it or not 75% of the
'mildly insane' people are released
within three years.
Karen stands up, grabbing her purse.
KAREN FADE
(as she leaveS) Thank you, Doctor.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM, GARDEN - EVENING
Caster is taking a walk through the gardens. He comes across
Leer, who is sitting on a bench, reading a book, much like he
was when Dean approached him. Caster hesitates, and then
continues walking. Leer looks up, and then closes the book.
LEER PHANTOM
(standing up, walking with Caster)
Hey, I didn't catch your name
before lunch was up. You mind
sharing it?
CASTER FADE
It's uh, Caster. Caster Fade.
LEER PHANTOM
You have an appointment with the
doctor yet?
CASTER FADE
No, tomorrow actually.
LEER PHANTOM
Try to avoid all the questions you
can. These doctors, don't trust
them. They don't care about you,
all they care about is their
paycheck.
Caster and Leer continue walking throughout the gardens.
CASTER FADE
How long have you been here?
LEER PHANTOM
Few weeks. More like a month,
probably. I haven't seen any
calendars around, so good luck
finding out what day it is.
Caster shifts his pace, and continues walking.
LEER PHANTOM
What are you in for?
CASTER FADE
Wife, well, ex-wife thought I was
insane. Our son was killed a bit
ago, I guess that was...hard.
Leer nods as they continue walking. Another bell rings,
signaling that it's time to head inside.
INT. DR. RYNN'S OFFICE - NEXT DAY
Caster is seated, his appointment with Dr. Rynn being today.
Dr. Rynn grabs a handful of large cards, and rolls on her
wheelie chair toward him. Stopping only a few feet away, she
holds up one of the cards that have an ink blot on them.
DR. RYNN
What do you see?
Caster studies the blot, and then moves closer to the edge of
the seat, getting a full view of it. Suddenly, a flash of
Leon appears, and he closes his eyes. Dr. Rynn brings the
picture back and sets it aside.
DR. RYNN
Maybe a new one?
Dr. Rynn holds up a different ink blot, and Caster looks up
to it. A flash of Leon and several playground sounds cause
Caster to shut his eyes and cover his ears.
CASTER FADE
Stop! Please!
Dr. Rynn rolls back to the other side of her desk, and
quickly types into the computer. She seems amazed, or
surprised.
DR. RYNN
(to herself) Oh wow...interesting.
CASTER FADE
(rubbing the back of his neck)
What? What is so interesting?
DR. RYNN
You seem to be seeing painful
images in ordinary blots of ink.
Have you experienced any
hallucinations?
CASTER FADE
A few. After my wife left me, I'd
see my son in dreams, but when I
would wake up I could hear
him...see him.
Dr. Rynn nods, and turns off her computer monitor.
DR. RYNN
Caster, what would you do if you
could come face-to-face with the
man who killed your son?
Caster thinks for a bit, and then sighs before answering.
CASTER FADE
I don't know, honestly. I guess I
would want revenge, but I've
learned that revenge doesn't solve
the missing piece that was taken
from you. Sure, you could get a
sense of justification, that the
other guy deserved it, but that
wouldn't be satisfying enough to
me. I want my son back. I know he
won't come back, I guess I just
need to learn to live with that.
Still, revenge doesn't sound bad.
DR. RYNN
Do you think he deserves to die?
CASTER FADE
I...well....no. It was Leon's fault
for running, but, no! It was my
fault, I should've stopped him. The
driver, if he would've only been 2
seconds later...
DR. RYNN
Alright, well I think that's all
for today. Thank you, Caster.
INT. VISITATION CENTER - DAY
Caster moves to sit at a table with John Prime. John glances
over him, and Caster sighs.
JOHN PRIME
How is it in here, Caster?
CASTER FADE
Not fun. But I've gotten to bond
with some of your, uh, other
clients.
JOHN PRIME
What?
CASTER FADE
Leer Phantom, the serial killer.
He's the closest thing I've got to
a friend in here.
JOHN PRIME
Jesus....stay Away from Leer
Phanton. The guy's a psychopath.
CASTER FADE
In here, everyone is.
John pulls a letter from his pocket, and slides it to Caster.
JOHN PRIME
Anyways, from the loan office.
Because you're a patient, they're
going to start billing your
parents.
CASTER FADE
Great. Just in time for the holiday
season.
JOHN PRIME
Anyways, I'd better get going. Lots
of work to do. Just figured I'd see
how you were doing. Karen, she
seems worried about you.
CASTER FADE
(laughing) Ironic, considering she
stuck me in here.
John nods, and then stands up, exiting the visitation center.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM, CELL - NIGHT
Caster Fade is sitting on the edge of the bed. It appears to
be late, but he can't sleep.
CASTER FADE (V.O.)
Maybe I've grown more insane,
considering the fact that my only
'friend' in this place is a serial
killer. Maybe it's normal to
connect with other insane people
when you're in an asylum. Is that
irony at its best? God, I just have
nothing to live for anymore. No
son, no wife, nothing. I wonder if
suicide really isn't as bad as they
make it out to be.
Caster sighs, and lays down in his bed, looking up to the
ceiling.
CASTER FADE (V.O.)
The people here, the guards, the
doctors. They all don't care.
Nobody does. I could suffocate
myself to death into my pillow and
nobody would care. I'm useless.
Well, shit. I guess you can't
suffocate yourself. Fuck. I swear,
this place is a little too
restrictive. I mean, I understand
plastic forks during lunch. But we
can't even write to someone in pen.
It's either with a computer or a
fucking crayon. How am I supposed
to kill myself with Crayola?
Caster shakes his head, and flips over, burying himself into
his pillow, trying to drift off to sleep, his only escape.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM, LIBRARY - NIGHT
Leer Phantom is seated at a computer. The only light coming
from the computer screen. One guard with his back turned to
Leer is the only other person in the room. It seems that this
guard is compassionate, letting Leer into the library past
hours. This guard is PAUL RICHARDS.
LEER PHANTOM
Just another minute, Paul.
PAUL RICHARDS
Yeah, alright. Try to hurry.
PAN OVER Leer's shoulder to show what he is typing. It is an
e-mail. It is being sent to 'Amy Reinlor'. The e-mail reads:
"Dear Amy,
The asylum isn't any better then how I described it to you
when I first entered. The food, people, and atmosphere is all
depressing. I did manage to meet one person who doesn't seem
to be afraid of me, but that's not what you're interested in.
I want you to know something, Amy. I'm sorry.
The fact that you start high school next year is a very hard
thought for me to process. I know I'll be hearing about how
you'll be enduring three years of hell, with everyone knowing
you as "The girl who's father is a serial killer". Please
believe me when I say I can't bear the thought of you being
teased about it, and if I could take it all back I would.
Justice can't compare to love. I love you, Amy.
- Your Father"
Leer sends the e-mail, and then powers off the computer,
standing up and letting the guard escort him back to his
cell.
INT. DR. RYNN'S OFFICE
Both Leer and Caster are seated in the office, along with Dr.
Rynn. They both glance at each other, having no idea what
could bring them both to be together in the office.
DR. RYNN
Paul and a few other guards tell me
they've seen you two talking.
LEER PHANTOM
Well, I guess
CASTER FADE
A bit, yeah. Why?
DR. RYNN
I think it's good. Seeing patients
socialize isn't as common as you'd
think. But Caster, what does it
feel like, knowing your only friend
in this place is a serial killer?
Leer glances down when he hears the words 'serial killer' and
Caster notices. Caster glances up, and shakes his head.
CASTER FADE
Well, I mean, that's sort of harsh.
In here, everyone's a patient
regardless of what they did, right?
DR. RYNN
I'm just speaking the truth, Mr.
Fade. But moving along. One of the
experimental procedures is what we
call co-evaluation. You two have a
lot in common, both in what you
think and how you act.
Caster and Leer both glance to one another, both obviously
feeling awkward about the whole situation.
DR. RYNN
So tell me, how have your thoughts
been, Caster?
CASTER FADE
(after hesitating) Not good. I
don't really have anything to live
for anymore. My son's dead, my wife
left me, nothing.
DR. RYNN
So, do you feel suicidal?
CASTER FADE
(after glancing to Leer then the
floor)I.....no.
DR. RYNN
What do you think, Leer? Does
Caster being depressed sound
alright, given his situation?
LEER PHANTOM
Um...well, yeah. I have a daughter
on the outside. I can't imagine
what losing her would be like. I
think he has every right to feel
depressed. But, to get rid of that
feeling he just needs something to
live for.
DR. RYNN
(completely ignoring Leer's later
points) A daughter, what's her
name?
LEER PHANTOM
(hesitating) Like hell you'll find
out. I know what you people do,
you'll snatch her from school or
work, question her. I'll never
reveal my daughter's name to you.
DR. RYNN
(glancing to her computer) Oh,
damn. It seems we have to cut this
short, fellas.
CASTER FADE
Why? What's wrong?
DR. RYNN
You've got a visitor, Mr. Fade
INT. VISITATION CENTER
Caster walks out to see Karen on the other side of a table.
He sits down across from her, and she just stares at him.
KAREN FADE
Caster....um....I'm sorry. I
shouldn't have had you stuck in
here.
CASTER FADE
(sarcastic) Yeah? Go tell the
warden to release me. I hear he's a
super friendly guy.
KAREN FADE
(serious) Please believe me. I have
some very important news.
CASTER FADE
(still being sarcastic) Oh, me too!
My new best friend is the town
serial killer! Can I jump for joy
while you pretend to give a shit?
KAREN FADE
(annoyed) Caster, listen to me!
God, this is so fucked up!
Caster sighs as he stops being sarcastic, and runs a hand
through his hair.
CASTER FADE
What? What is it, Karen?
KAREN FADE
I'm not lying, and there are two
things I have to tell you. One, I
am sorry. Having you admitted here
was a mistake, but it's done me
good. Being seperate from you. We
were too wound up, too depressed.
We wern't moving forward. Now, I
am. But I realize it was selfish of
me to have had you sent off while I
did myself some good. For that, I
apologize. We'll never get over
losing him, but we can always move
forward.
CASTER FADE
Alright. You're sorry. I get it. I
guess I'm sorry too for the way I
acted.
Caster offers a shy smile, and Karen puts one of her hands on
Casters.
KAREN FADE
I'm pregnant, Caster.
CASTER FADE
(taken aback) W-wait, what?
KAREN FADE
It's true. I kept getting sick last
week at Wendy's house. I took a
test, and it's positive
CASTER FADE
(emotionless) Jesus....I figured
you'd be happy.
KAREN FADE
I figured you would be, too.
CASTER FADE
No...I'm scared. I don't want to
lose another.
KAREN FADE
I've talked to John. You've got a
mentality test coming up in three
months to determine whether you
stay in here or not.
CASTER FADE
Three months is too long.
A loud bell goes off, signaling that visitation hours are
over. Karen stands up, and Caster remains seated, but looks
up to her.
CASTER FADE
Thanks for coming.
Karen nods, and then turns, exiting.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM, GARDEN - DUSK
Leer and Caster are walking side-by-side through the gardens,
a familiar scene. Caster turns to him.
CASTER FADE
I need to tell you something, man.
LEER PHANTOM
Alright. Go ahead.
CASTER FADE
My wife's pregnant. Another child.
LEER PHANTOM
(a bit surprised) Oh, I see.
Congrads.
CASTER FADE
That's not it. I'm getting out of
here. My wife scheduled a mental
health test for me in three months,
but I can't wait that long. I've
got to get back out there, and
prepare to be a father again.
LEER PHANTOM
I see. So, what is the problem?
CASTER FADE
(glancing to him) I'm getting out
of here. Tonight. I was wondering
if you knew a way.
LEER PHANTOM
Escaping, you mean? Jesus, even the
most insane never get away with
that.
CASTER FADE
You said that I have to find
something to live for. I have, now.
And I need to be out there to
experience it.
LEER PHANTOM
Well....I know a guard. I saved his
life on my first day here after
Dean Frye, the big asshole, tried
to knife him. He's been doing me
small favors like letting me write
my daughter. I could convince him
to let you out. But it'd be the
last thing he ever did for me. He
wouldn't say no, I know the guy.
CASTER FADE
Not just me. You've got a daughter
too. You're coming.
LEER PHANTOM
(shaking his head) No. I can't. My
daughter won't call me dad anymore.
She doesn't hate me, but she
doesn't love me anymore. To show up
at her house an escaped insane man?
That would be a bigger insult than
writing to her. She wants nothing
to do with me. Can't say I blame
her.
CASTER FADE
Maybe your mind will change. But,
you sure you have a guy that can
get me out tonight?
LEER PHANTOM
He'll get you out of your cell and
take you to the guard room. But
you'll have to make it over the
fence and walls yourself, you can't
go through the main doors.
CASTER FADE
Alright. Hey, thanks. I know
there's been some awkwardness about
us knowing each other, but you're
my only real friend here.
Caster extends his right hand to Leer in a gesture for a
handshake, and Leer shakes Caster's hand with his own.
INT. BEHIND CELL BLOCK - NIGHT
PAUL RICHARDS
No way. I can't do it. Don't ask me
to!
LEER PHANTOM
Look, don't even think about it.
Just do it. This guy lost his kid.
PAUL RICHARDS
(sighing) I'm new here! I can't
lose this job!
LEER PHANTOM
How will they know it's you?
PAUL RICHARDS
(sarcastic) Oh, uh, gee, it just
happens to be my shift to watch the
cell block!
LEER PHANTOM
Tell the other guards the escapee
knocked you out.
Leer stares at Paul, and Paul sighs, rubbing the back of his
neck.
PAUL RICHARDS
I can't.
LEER PHANTOM
I saved your ass man. This is how
you repay me?
Paul grunts out loud, and then exhales deeply.
PAUL RICHARDS
After this, we're even.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM, CELL
Caster is laying on his bed when the door swings open. Caster
bolts up to see Paul standing on the other side. Paul appears
impatient and a bit mad.
PAUL RICHARDS
You Caster? Come on, we gotta move.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM, BACK ROOM - NIGHT
Paul leads Caster through a secured door, and on the other
side is Leer. Leer nods to Caster, and Paul locks the door
behind him.
LEER PHANTOM
Told you he'd come through. He's a
good guy.
PAUL RICHARDS
Yeah, yeah...
CASTER FADE
Where do I go?
Paul points down a long, open corridor. It's the same one
from the opening scene.
PAUL RICHARDS
Down there. At the end, there's a
window high up. Use a chair or a
table. Open the window, and walk
across the long, narrow ledge to
the other side. Jump down, and
you'll get away.
Suddenly, from another room, a struggle is heard. Paul places
a hand on his gun, and suddenly the door opens. Dean Frye
walks through, aiming a gun at Paul.
PAUL RICHARDS
What the fuck?
DEAN FRYE
(laughing) Damn, this serial killer
and that other fuckhead are stupid.
They had no idea I've been
following them on their little
nightly walks, or sitting a few
feet away at lunch. What fucks.
LEER PHANTOM
Dean, how the fuck-
DEAN FRYE
Oh, I'm escaping too, Leer. Except
I went my own way about it.
I paid a guard to leave the key to
the guard's room opened, and I
found a guy in there. I put the
poor bastard out of his misery, and
here we are.
Dean laughs, and Caster looks to Leer. Leer nods to Caster,
and suddenly Caster darts off down the long corridor. Paul
tackles Dean into the wall, and the gun goes off. Leer kicks
Dean in the kneecap, and Paul and Leer throw Dean to the
floor.
PAUL RICHARDS
You gotta get back to your cell,
Phantom. Now! We-
Paul stops mid-sentence as the gun, now recovered by Dean,
goes off, placing a single bullet in Paul's chest. Leer
watches as one of his few friends falls to the floor, dead.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM, BREAK ROOM - NIGHT
Caster enters the break room, breathing heavily. He hears the
gunshot, and shakes in fear. He glances around to see
lockers, and a pistol sitting on the table, along with
security TV's and keys.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM, BACK ROOM - NIGHT
Leer kicks the gun away from Dean, and after looking at the
helpless, dead Paul, takes off in the direction Caster ran.
Dean struggles, but grabs the gun and runs after Dean.
INT. EASTSIDE ASYLUM, BREAK ROOM
Leer enters, and glances around. He is looking for Caster.
LEER PHANTOM
Caster, it's Leer. Where-
Dean enters, and cocks the gun, aiming at Leer. Leer slowly
puts his hands up, and backs up to a wall.
Dean approaches, and keeps the gun trained on him. Several
sounds of other guards behind them faintly signal that time
is running out.
DEAN FRYE
You sick fuck. Now you'll pay for
what you did.
Suddenly Caster emerges from one of the lockers, aiming the
pistol from the table at Dean. He cocks it.
CASTER FADE
Drop it. Now!
Dean slowly raises his gun, and drops it. Just as he does,
several guards attempt to enter the break room. Leer kicks
Dean right in the chest, and sends him flying back against
the door, preventing the guards from coming in. Shots start
ringing out, flying through the door, killing Dean. Leer runs
near Caster, and Caster looks up to see the window Paul was
talking about.
CASTER FADE
Let's go.
Leer, after all the gunfire ceased, grabs the large ring of
keys and locks the now-badly damaged door, preventing the
guards from entering for a bit longer. Caster and Leer meet
eye to eye, both tense.
LEER PHANTOM
No, I can't. This is where I
belong.
CASTER FADE
We don't have time for games, your
daughter needs you!
The guards are now pounding on the door, trying to break it
in. Getting closer.
LEER PHANTOM
My daughter resents me. Seeing me
here is what would make her the
happiest. I'm willing to do that. I
love her, so much. So if what makes
her happy is seeing her sick father
in an asylum rotting away, I'll do
that.
CASTER FADE
I......jesus. Alright. They have
guns, though.
LEER PHANTOM
Seeing me dead would probably bring
a huge smile to my face.
CASTER FADE
What? You don't make any...no. No!
I won't let you!
LEER PHANTOM
(as the door is starting to break)
You don't have a choice. Listen, my
daughter's name, it's Amy. Amy
Reinlor. Look it up in the phone
book, send her a letter saying you
knew me, and that I love her.
Alright?
CASTER FADE
(saddened) Alright. I will.
LEER PHANTOM
You take care of that kid you've
got coming.
Leer extends his hand near the gun, and Caster hesitates,
before placing the gun into Leer's hand. Leer walks near the
door, and closes his eyes. Caster climbs up onto a table, and
opens the window. A raging thunderstorm outside greets him.
Caster steals one last look at Leer before leaving. Leer
opens his eyes just as the doors break in and we
CUT TO:
EXT. ASYLUM - NIGHT
Caster jumps out of the doom, onto the small platform. In
front of him is a small, narrow bridge to the other wall.
Caster starts across it, and as he gets halfway, several
gunshots ring out from the break room. Caster turns once all
the shots have ceased, and he hesitates, taking a step back.
Then, he turns, and continues across, not looking back. Once
he reaches the edge, he sighs, closing his eyes before
jumping down.
EXT. WOODS - NIGHT
Caster jogs through the woods, now escaped from the asylum.
CASTER FADE (V.O.)
It's funny how I went from being
suicidal one day to having
something to live for the next. Not
many people would believe a serial
killer taught me you have to have
something to live for. Leer Phantom
was my best friend I've ever had.
I'll never know why he killed those
people, or what thoughts were
registering in his mind whenever he
killed them, but for some strange
reason, I can relate. I think we
all can. We've all done bad things.
But we need something to keep
driving us forward. My new child is
what's keeping me pushing forward.
These last few months have been
hell, and I can't say there are any
memories I'd like to keep. But I
did meet someone who changed my
life. Now I have a reason to wake
up. I don't know if Leer died back
there or not, but regardless, he
asked me to do something for him,
and I will. From a loving father,
to a depressed unemployed husband,
to an insane suicidal patient, to a
soon-to-be-father. The Descent Into
Madness.
FADE TO BLACK
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