ACT ONE
FADE IN:
1 P.O.V. GUATEMALA, CENTRAL AMERICA -- DAY 1
- ESTABLISHING -
From just above the modern day city of Guatemala, we swiftly
move over the city, as giant glass buildings, and car filled
streets quickly pass below. As we move south across the
city, we begin to move from a densely populated area to the
jungle that surrounds the city.
As the jungle flows like a giant green river below:
GID (V.O.)
Twenty-Five Hundred Years ago in the
first year of the reign of Zedekiah,
the King of Judah, my ancestors came
to this continent after fleeing
Jeruselem, the city they called home.
(beat)
Guided by faith, our forefathers
journeyed to this continent, leaving
behind all those that would be taken
away into babylon.
(beat)
They brought with them the records
of old. Written by great men such
as Moses and Isiah.
(beat)
Just as these men kept records, we
too were commanded to keep a record
of our people.
(beat)
the story I am about to tell you, is
found in the records our people kept,
it is a story of faith, and of vertue.
(beat)
It is the story of the Last Great
Army who fought with the power of
God, to protect the Liberty of our
People.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.2
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
1 CONTINUED: 1
GID (V.O.) (CONT'D)
(beat)
a people who would eventually be
destroyed by the sword, only to be
remembered in the great records of
our people.
(beat)
a record kept for the sake of all
man kind.
From just above the canopy of the jungle forest, we swiftly
move over modern day Central America. Only the top of the
jungle canopy is seen as it passes swiftly below.
After several miles of dense jungle forest, we reach a
clearing and a great Ancient City is revealed.
The camera continues to move swiftly through the ancient
city.
TRANSITION INTO:
2 P.O.V. GREAT ANCIENT AMERICAN CITY -- CONTINUOUS 2
- ESTABLISHING -
An ancient city which has been mostly covered by the dense
jungle. Many buildings are completely hidden from view,
while others still peer out from the past.
Like ghosts from the past, we begin to see this city as it
once was, the people who lived here, the people who are dying
here, as a great slaughter ensues.
The camera continues to move throughout the city as we are
now completely into the period, 90 B.C.. We see a barbaric
Lamanite Army slaughtering hundreds of innocent Lamanite
people.
Smoke fills the air as the smaller buildings burn to the
ground, people run, and Lamanite Soldiers continue their
destruction.
Some men fight, but it is obvious that this people was caught
off guard and was not ready to battle an army.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.3
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
2 CONTINUED: 2
ANGLE ON
High atop a great stone temple, several Lamanites have found
what could only be the ruler of this land. The Lamanite
soldiers bring this man to the edge of a platform.
ANGLE ON
a barbaric club with shards of volcanic glass around the
edges, which is being lifted into the air.
ANGLE HOLDS
as the club slashes down out of cameras view.
MASTER ANGLE
All of the soldiers walk down the steep stairs of the temple
to the bottom where their horses wait.
Once the men have climbed atop their horses, we follow them
as they leave the city. Falling in behind many soldiers
join them as they ride out of this fallen city.
The men ride past a young lamanite boy, TAMAL, who sits in
terror over his murdered parents. He is covered in soot and
has a gapping wound on the right side of his face that extends
from his temple down over his cheek bone. The cut barely
misses his eye.
Tamal watches as the men ride off, disapearing into the the
clouds of smoke that fills the city street.
Finding himself virtually alone, Tamal composes himself,
taking a deep breath and then wiping the tears and secretions
from his face. By doing so, he wipes blood, tears, and soot
across his face. It is not until then, that he realizes he
is injured.
Tamal notices the blood that covers his forearm and examines
it to determine the source. Not seeing it right away, his
focus changes to his parents who lye dead on the ground in
front of him.
Tamal focuses on a gold neckband, covered in blood, that is
around his fathers neck. Gently, Tamal removes it, holding
it with both hands, he uses his thumb to wipe away a thumbs
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.4
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
2 CONTINUED: (2) 2
width of blood, revealing the shiny gold underneath. His
face turns from sadness to anger.
With that Tamal stands and looks off in the direction the
soldiers rode and places the adult size jewelry around his
neck, blood and all.
TRANSITION INTO:
3 EXT. THE LAND OF ISHMAEL - ESTABLISHING -- DAY 3
The great city of Ishmael fills the landscape of this dense
tropical region.
Gigantic stone structures fill this unfortified city. Outside
the main capitol of the city, we see thousands of tents and
many thousands of Lamanite people who are gathered all around.
4 EXT. INTERIOR MARKET OF ISHMAEL CITY -- DAY 4
A giant courtyard inside the great city of Ishmael. Hundreds,
if not thousands of people are at the market, buying, selling,
and trading all things indigenous to 77 B.C. Central America.
A Great Temple sits at the North end of the Courtyard.
ANGLE ON
GID, a young Anti-Nephi-Lehie boy, about 8, is intensely
watching a young girl spin pottery. The young girl smiles
at Gid, who is entranced in the process.
MESHA - GID'S MOTHER (O.S.)
(Motherly)
Gideon!
(beat, slight sternness)
Gideon, let us go now!!
Gid is obviously entranced in some hypnotic movement of the
pottery, or maybe it's the young girl spinning it.
AMULON - GID'S FATHER (O.S.)
(With no room for
interpretation)
GID!!!!
GID reacts immediately to his fathers call, as he runs to
catch up with his family.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.5
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
4 CONTINUED: 4
Gid grabs hold of his fathers hand.
ANGLE PULLS OUT
To show Gid and his family, holding hands, while walking
through a giant market in the middle of the City of Ishmael.
Gid can't help but turn to look at the young girl, who in
turn looks back at him, smiling.
Gid's little Sister, SARIAH (6 yrs old), interrupts the moment
by slapping him in the arm.
YOUNG SARIAH
(laughing)
Gid, caught off guard, immediately chases after sariah and a
game of tag ensues as they both weave in and out through the
marketplace.
BACK TO SCENE
Where MESHA and AMULON now walk alone hand in hand.
MESHA - GID'S MOTHER
(perturbed)
Why does he not listen to me anymore?
AMULON - GID'S FATHER
I will speak with him.
MESHA - GID'S MOTHER
(upset)
I do not want you to have to speak
with him.
AMULON - GID'S FATHER
(consoling)
Mesha, our son loves you very much,
but now he is reaching the age of
manhood and trying to spread his
wings.
(beat)
He is only caught up in his
youthfulness,
(beat, emphasizing)
and I will speak with him.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.6
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
4 CONTINUED: (2) 4
MESHA - GID'S MOTHER
(hesitantly)
I do know that you are right,
(beat)
I just want my son to stay a child
in his own eyes.
AMULON - GID'S FATHER
Well, I can not make Gid stay a child,
(beat)
But if it is children you desire in
our presence, then let us have many
many more.
Mesha's face turns to joy
MESHA - GID'S MOTHER
(suspiciously)
Do you speak the truth to me now?
Or are you playing upon my desires?
AMULON - GID'S FATHER
(questioning her
suspicions)
Have I not always spoken the words
of truth to you?
(beat)
Let it be no secret, I to would love
to have many more children to fill
our home, and I am not becoming any
younger.
She is totally caught off guard, and jump like a giddy school
girl into his arms.
As they embrace with joy. A moment passes as they celebrate
the new choice.
GATE GUARD (O.S.)
(Yelling)
clear the way....
Both immediately look over, as do all in the area.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.7
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
4 CONTINUED: (3) 4
ANGLE ON
A large gated opening in the middle of small wall which
encircles the courtyard. The GATE GUARD stands on the top
of the wall as a lookout, along with several other men.
Although this city is not fortified by great walls, this
small wall is the entrance into the city from other lands.
GATE GUARD (CONT'D)
(Yelling)
Clear the way!!
Led by AMMON, a very distinguished man who is dressed well
but travels lightly, a large group of men on horseback come
riding though the entrance.
MESHA - GID'S MOTHER
Who is that?
AMORON - GID'S GRANDFATHER (O.S.)
(deep calming voice)
They are the sons of Mosiah and their
brethren.
(beat)
It has been many seasons since they
have been in Ishmael.
Both Mesha and Amulon turn to find AMORON standing in front
of a market booth looking at a fine tool made of hardened
copper.
Amoron is a very dignified looking man, who commands presence.
He is dressed very beautify.
AMULON - GID'S FATHER
Surely they come for the Feast and
celebration this night?
AMORON - GID'S GRANDFATHER
I do not know, other than a messenger
arrived early this morning asking
for audience with King Lamoni.
AMULON - GID'S FATHER
Is there need to worry Father?
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.8
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
4 CONTINUED: (4) 4
Amoron looks at his son, it is obvious that he knows not why
Ammon and his brethren have come.
AMORON - GID'S GRANDFATHER
This night is a great time for our
people. I can see no better time
for them to come to Ishmael.
All stand solemnly watching as the men dismount their horses
and head up into the great building.
CUT TO:
5 INT. KING'S CONFERENCE ROOM ISHMAEL -- MOMENTS LATER 5
King Lamoni (39 yrs old), ruler of the Land of Ishmael, and
his younger brother, King Nephi-Lehi (24 Yrs old), the ruler
of all the Land of Nephi, both sit together at the base of
the throne, or in other words, neither sit on the throne but
are in a more casual atmosphere.
KING LAMONI
I trust your travel was well?
KING NEPHI-LEHI
Of course brother, although it proved
to be longer than I had remembered.
KING LAMONI
Yes it does take longer when traveling
with full guard,
(beat)
unlike the times you used to ride
here alone, against fathers wishes.
KING NEPHI-LEHI
That only happened once Brother,
(beat)
the other times he never knew I had
gone.
Both laugh at what could only be an inside joke.
KING LAMONI
Oh, brother it is good to have you
here. I only wish father had lived
to see this day.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.9
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
5 CONTINUED: 5
The moment turns solemn
KING NEPHI-LEHI
He would of had much joy seeing his
people come together in the
righteousness they now own.
(beat)
Although I do not know if he could
bear to see the numbers who still
deny the truth.
KING LAMONI
If father had not become ill, I
believe he would have gone and not
returned home until all his people
had come together under one fold.
Again both brother laugh
Suddenly the delight between brothers is broken!
CAPTIAN TAMAL
I see that not much has changed.
ANGLE ON
TAMAL, who we recognize because of the scar and unique golden
neckband that he now wears, stands behind the Kings, just
inside a small doorway which is obviously used only by the
King.
He arrogantly stands looking around the chambers, as if he
had not been here in a while. Then looks down at the two
Kings.
CAPTIAN TAMAL (CONT'D)
(smiling and somewhat
disapproving)
Except for the young Nephi-Lehi who
now wears the crown of this land.
Both Kings immediately stand because of the greatness of
their surprise.
Tamal stands there with a smile upon his face. Waiting for
a response.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.10
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
5 CONTINUED: (2) 5
KING LAMONI
And I see that you have not forgotten
your way around my palace.
The tension in the room is beginning to build.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
Indeed.
KING LAMONI
To whom do I owe this honor, having
my oldest friend and absent Chief
Counselor return to me?
Tamal takes the steps in strides and he lands on level ground
with the Kings.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
You have me to thank for my safe
return, for it is I who has caused
this reunion of old friends.
King Lamoni's countenance changes from distant to loving and
joyful.
KING LAMONI
Then let old friends embrace and
rejoice as only we can this day.
Both men embrace in a barbaric hug then King Lamoni places
his hands on Tamal's shoulders looking his old friend over.
KING LAMONI (CONT'D)
(looking Tamal over)
You have not changed in the slightest
my friend,
(beat)
and how I have missed your presence
at my side.
(beat)
I have spent much time pondering
what I had done to drive you from
this place.
(beat, solomnly)
and Father asked of you frequently
before he died.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.11
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
5 CONTINUED: (3) 5
CAPTIAN TAMAL
My friend, I do not wish to dwell on
the events of the past, for now is
the only time which we can effect.
(beat)
and for that reason, now is the time
I have chosen to return to my old
friend who is the King of this people.
KING LAMONI
My friend, you speak the truth in
your words.
Walking over to a table on the nearby wall
KING LAMONI (CONT'D)
So let us rejoice in this day, and
welcome our brother Tamal back to
his home and his position as the
Kings Chief Counselor for the people.
King Lamoni grabs a pitcher of wine and begins to pour it
into a very fine golden goblet.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(laughing at the King)
Is that why you believe I have come
here this day?
He immediately stops pouring.
KING LAMONI
(smiling)
Why else would thou return here under
a flag of friendship?
CAPTIAN TAMAL
Are we not the oldest of friends,
can we not suspend the flattery?
Tamal is still very confident with himself and the situation.
CAPTIAN TAMAL (CONT'D)
I have come this day because of the
great unrest that this people suffer.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.12
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
5 CONTINUED: (4) 5
CAPTIAN TAMAL (CONT'D)
(beat)
I have come to put this people again
at peace. Something two Kings have
been unable to do.
King Lamoni is a little taken back by that statement and
retorts accordingly.
KING LAMONI
I assure you my friend, that those
who desire peace are here this day
in the Lands of Ishmael,
(beat)
and any who have not come to this
place are most assuredly not striving
for peace.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
It is those that are here this day
that cause the distensions among our
people.
Lamoni looks to his brother.
KING LAMONI
(smiling)
Please do enlighten us.
Tamal does not like being mocked as he becomes a little
abrupt.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
If the sons of Mosiah had been
executed the day they came to this
land, as I had counseled, we would
have remained a peaceful people.
(beat)
If your Father had not fallen into
the same trap as you we would still
be at peace.
AMMON
So do tell me your interpretation of
peace my friend,
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.13
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
5 CONTINUED: (5) 5
AMMON (CONT'D)
(beat)
Is that what your armies intend to
create, peace?
Tamal looks over, as do the Kings, to find AMMON and his
Brothers, ARRON, OMNER, HIMNI standing in the entrance to
the conference room. They are all aware that Tamal has dug
himself a pretty big hole.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(again becoming
dreadfully sly)
The people of this land desire to
have the peace that was theirs before
you came here.
AMMON
If the truth causes a people to loose
their peace,
(beat)
then I say peace was never theirs to
begin with.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
And I say if truth causes a people
to loose peace, then that truth is
nothing but trickery brought about
by lies and false Gods.
KING LAMONI
(hurt)
Why have you come here?
CAPTIAN TAMAL
I desire to stop bloodshed,
(beat)
and you have the power to stop it.
AMMON
(angrily)
You have the power to stop bloodshed,
(beat)
For it is your armies that threaten
this righteous people.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.14
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
5 CONTINUED: (6) 5
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(innocently)
I am but a messenger,
(to Lamoni)
I only came because I thought you
might listen to me, before you and
your people make a decision they
will be unable to LIVE with.
KING LAMONI
Are you part of those who might take
up arms against your own people?
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(Smiling to King Lamoni
& Nephi-Lehi)
It does not have to come to that my
friend,
(pointing to Ammon)
simply remove them from this land,
stop their foolish teachings, and
your people will go home peacefully.
(boasting)
And I would even join you as your
chief councilman again.
AMMON
Had you and your brethren chosen to
maintain peace, your first reaction
would not have been to start a civil
war.
Tamal is very angered by the situation, but swallows his
tongue.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(to King lamoni)
Consider saving your people, I will
be camped near the caves half a day
south of Ishmael, I will remain their
until first mornings light.
(beat)
After that time, there will be nothing
I can do.
The realization of Tamal's visit has now become clear to
King Lamoni.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.15
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
5 CONTINUED: (7) 5
KING LAMONI
My old friend, my people have been
saved. You need not wait for a change
of heart on my part.
(beat)
However, you have much travel ahead
of you, I pray that you will consider
saving yourself.
Tamal storms out of the council room through the Sons of
Mosiah.
King Lamoni watches Tamal leave, then looks over at Ammon.
Sorrow fills his countenance as he turns and places the
pitcher of wine and the cup down on the table.
Ammon and his brethren approach the Kings. Stopping several
feet before King Lamoni,
KING LAMONI (CONT'D)
Ammon my brother, Welcome.
He lowers his head slightly.(showing his respect). Then
looks at Ammon who stands ready to embrace his faithful
brother.
AMMON
It is good to see you my friend.
All of the men address each other and embrace in friendship.
Ammon, Arron, Omner, Himni, Muloki, and Ammah are among the
ten men.
KING LAMONI
We received your messenger earlier
this day, and have prepared
accommodation for you,
(beat)
how long do you desire to grace us
with your presence.
AMMON
Our desire to be among God's truest
people is great, however, we know
not the length of our presence.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.16
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
5 CONTINUED: (8) 5
KING NEPHI-LEHI
Then let us make the most of this
momentous occasion,
(beat)
By having all of the Son's of Mosiah
and their brethren here beside all
the faithful Lamanite who have
gathered for the Lords purpose,
(beat)
I see a great reason to rejoice.
KING LAMONI
My brother speaks the truth as we
can not deny the tremendous blessings
of this day.
AMMON
It is a marvelous site indeed, seeing
the way we have been blessed by coming
down to this land.
KING LAMONI
Ammon, I fear the joy in you words
is overcome by the grave soberness
of your eyes.
Ammon takes a moment to gather his thoughts.
AMMON
Your perception is great my friend,
(beat)
and although I do not desire to cease
the atmosphere here, I bring grave
concerns this day.
KING LAMONI
Then brother, please let us give
attention to the words you bring us,
(motioning to sit on
the steps)
please continue.
All of the men are seated.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.17
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
5 CONTINUED: (9) 5
AMMON
The man you once respected as your
Chief Councilman, spoke a partial
truth,
(beat)
We have witnessed the Amalekites and
Amulonites stirring up the remainder
of your people,
(beat)
those who have not been converted to
the Lord, now prepare to overthrow
your place as kings and place a new
in your stead.
(beat)
We know without error that they gather
in a place less than two days from
Ishmael.
King Lamoni stands up and begins to walk towards the wall
opposite of where he stood to pour a drink. This wall has a
doorway and windows that lead to a platform which over looks
the city, or most directly the giant courtyard. Off to the
left the Temple is also clearly seen
Ammon watches King lamoni.
KING NEPHI-LEHI
(toward Ammon)
When will they come upon us?
AMMON
We did come as soon as we knew the
circumstances. However, I fear that
they are already on the march.
King Nephi-Lehi looks worriedly at Lamoni, who stands their
in deep thought.
AMMON (CONT'D)
(Determined)
You must begin preparation to defend
yourselves.
(beat)
Even at half march they will be here
in two mornings light.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.18
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
5 CONTINUED: (10) 5
Lamoni understands Ammon's concern. But he to has concerns
in this situation.
KING LAMONI
Ammon my brother, there is not one
soul among all this people that has
been converted to the Lord, that
would take up arms against their
brethren.
(beat)
We were once as them, until you came
upon our people, we were unable to
see our wicked ways.
(beat)
So how is it that now we should blame
them for believing the things we
once also believed.
(beat)
Taking the actions that we once took.
ARRON stands up and approaches Lamoni
ARRON
(Sympathetically)
Brothers, you lead a great and
righteous people. And I have been
honored to walk at your side as a
servant of God. But we will not
stand by and watch you and your people
be slain by the sword of your own
brethren. I know only that,
(with power)
You must defend yourselves.
ANGLE ON
Nephi-Lehi stepping forward towards Ammon.
KING NEPHI-LEHI
This people has spent many nights on
their knees praying to God for
forgiveness of their wicked ways.
It is only now after years of
repentance that they feel like a
righteous people.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.19
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
5 CONTINUED: (11) 5
KING NEPHI-LEHI (CONT'D)
(beat)
We must not be tempted by the
adversary,
(beat)
not even now.
As a moment goes by, Ammon examines the facts at hand, then
replies. He still believes they can walk upright before God
in defending themselves.
AMMON
I have witnessed that God has truly
converted this people,
(beat)
I know that this people has become
airs to gift of the atonement and
your souls have been washed clean.
(beat)
So raise your swords in righteousness
to defend your Liberty,
(beat)
Hold fast to the knowledge of God's
protection of his people, and throw
down your persecutors who seek to
destroy you.
(beat)
God honors those who defend his cause.
Lamoni walks to the doorway and proceeds outside, stopping
once at the edge of the platform. Both Ammon and Nephi-Lehi
follow him.
KING LAMONI
(holding out his arms
to acknowledge the
people of Ishmael)
We have gathered our righteous people
together this day for one purpose,
(looking at Ammon)
to lay down our sword, even bury
them deep within the earth.
(looking out again)
We will one day stand at the Judgment
Bar of God and we will be able to
say, "our swords shine brightly
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.20
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
5 CONTINUED: (12) 5
KING LAMONI (CONT'D)
because we never did again shed the
blood of any man".
A moment passes as the power of King Lamoni's speech sinks
in. Ammon softly smiles at his friend.
AMMON
I was unaware of the power of your
conversion to the Lord. You have
filled my heart with joy this day.
(placing his hand on
Lamoni's shoulder)
For I know that your people will
never again fall away from the
truthfulness of your faith.
Ammon's focus now changes to that of delivering this great
people, determined to keep them from destruction.
AMMON (CONT'D)
(smiling)
Let us leave this land and flee from
our enemy.
(beat - turning to
his brothers)
We will go down unto the Land of
Zarahemla where the Nephites will
surely welcome us.
Nephi-Lehi looks to his brother, could it be as simple at
that. But would the Nephite's welcome them?
KING NEPHI-LEHI
If we held in our hearts that the
Nephite's would welcome us. Then it
would be that you could lead our
people out of the hands of our
brethren.
(beat)
But we hold no such knowledge.
AMMON
The Lord has truly blesses this
people, The Nephite's will see as I
do the righteousness among you.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.21
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
5 CONTINUED: (13) 5
AMMON (CONT'D)
(beat)
They will seek no more to contend
with war against you.
(after short thought)
If I go and inquire of the Lord, and
if he says unto us, go down unto our
brethren, will you go?
KING LAMONI
(without hesitation)
Yes, if the Lord saith unto us go,
we will go.
AMMON
(soft smile)
Then my friends, prepare your people,
we shall return before two mornings
light.
Ammon turns and briskly leaves the room. Ammon's brethren
follow.
Lamoni turns and looks out over his people.
CUT TO:
6 EXT. OUTSIDE GID'S HOME, ISHMAEL -- LATER 6
Gid's home sits in a dense area just outside the main city
of Ishmael. It is a normal size home for this time period.
The home sits within 15 yards of a briskly running stream.
Amulon and Gid are working on a large perfectly square stone,
(about w = 4' x d = 2' x h = 2'). Amulon draws detailed
graphics on the stone, while Gid smooths over recently carved
graphics with a small stone-working tool. Gid works intensely
on a small detail. It is obvious he knows exactly what he is
doing. The graphics depict a peaceful people praying.
Amulon's attention focuses on Gid several times, as he notices
how intensely Gid is working. So much so, that he stops
what he is doing and leans in to get a better look.
Gid suddenly stop and looks over at his father, who just
stares at him, and inquires
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.22
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
6 CONTINUED: 6
YOUNG GID
Is it as you desire father?
Amulon leans over and brushes the dust away from the area
Gid has been working one, then runs his hand over the detailed
design.
AMULON - GID'S FATHER
(surprised)
This is magnificent,
(beat)
you have taken away all of the
coarseness and yet still kept the
shape perfectly.
(smiling)
This is wonderful work Gideon.
Gid smiles at his father. It is obvious that Gid respects
him and that these words have boosted his confidence and
self-esteem almost immediately.
AMULON - GID'S FATHER (CONT'D)
When this stone is complete, it will
sit within the Temple, all who see
it will be proud of the fine
workmanship.
Gid's perma-grin fills Amulon's heart with pride in his young
son. He embraces his son then returns to sketching the smooth
side of the stone as Gid's excitedly returns to his work.
A moment passes then from out of nowhere.
YOUNG GID
Father, who were those Nephite men
who entered the city this day?
AMULON - GID'S FATHER
They are the Sons of Mosiah, I believe
they came for the celebration this
evening.
Both continue to work. But Gid still has some questions, he
tries to continue working, but can't concentrate. Amulon
notices the struggle Gid is having
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.23
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
6 CONTINUED: (2) 6
AMULON - GID'S FATHER (CONT'D)
Gideon? You look troubled, are you
alright?
It is as though Gid has to gain the courage to continue.
YOUNG GID
(worried)
will you be leaving soon, to go fight
a war?
AMULON - GID'S FATHER
(very surprised)
No Gideon, what would make you think
such a thing?
YOUNG GID
Teomner had told me that his father
had taken out a sword and packed it
into a cloth, as though he were going
to take it somewhere.
(beat)
then this day you took your sword
and packet it also into a cloth also
as if to take it away.
Amulon smiles and even chuckles at Gid's misunderstanding.
AMULON - GID'S FATHER
This night I will take that sword
with us, to the celebration, where I
will place it into a tomb deep within
the earth,
(beat)
to show God that I never will again
us it.
YOUNG GID
Father, why do we celebrate this?
AMULON - GID'S FATHER
I know that God will be watching us,
I think that He will celebrate that
we are choosing never again to shed
the blood of man,
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.24
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
6 CONTINUED: (3) 6
AMULON - GID'S FATHER (CONT'D)
(smiling)
So I believe we have cause to also
celebrate?
ANGLE ON
The opening to Gid's home. The door opens and Sariah pokes
her head out.
SARIAH
Father, dinner is ready.
then as suddenly as it opened the door to the hut closes.
ANGLE BACK ON
Gid and his father. Gid looks at his father in anticipation.
AMULON - GID'S FATHER
Let us go eat.
Gid doesn't have to be told twice...
CUT TO:
7 INT. GID'S HOME, ISHMAEL -- LATER 7
Mesha brings whole cooked corn cobs to the dinner table, in
a fine woven basket. After placing the corn on the table,
she sits with the rest of the family. Other foods are already
placed on the table, such as tortillas, fruits, and
vegetables.
Gid's father looks around the table, then bows his head in
prayer, as does the rest of the family.
AMULON - GID'S FATHER
Dear Lord our God, we in humility
come before thee to thank thee for
this bountiful meal. We pray that
thy blessings will be upon this feast,
that it may bring us strength and
health.
(beats)
We pray that thy spirit will be with
us always and guide us each day.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.25
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
7 CONTINUED: 7
Gid's Father pauses for a moment. It is obvious that this
isn't normal, as we see Gid look up to see what is wrong.
Quickly closing his eyes as his father again begins to speak.
AMULON - GID'S FATHER (CONT'D)
We humble ourselves as we go to the
celebration this night, we pray that
our sacrifice is accepted.
(beat)
We also ask at this time that thou
be with Gid, now that he is entering
the age of manhood.
Gid again looks up, this is unusual for a dinner blessing.
AMULON - GID'S FATHER (CONT'D)
And ask that we may be guided in
teaching him well to honor thee.
(beat)
We are grateful to thee and offer
this blessing and prayer to thee,
Amen.
All of the Family honors God by also saying "AMEN".
Gid looks at his mother to see if she is as astounded as he
is. Although it is obvious that she is, she just looks at
Gid for a moment then begins to pass the food.
CUT TO:
8 EXT. LAMANITE CAMP OUTSIDE ISHMAEL - ESTABLISHING -- NIGHT 8
A giant camp has been setup for thousands of Lamanite
soldiers. Some fires burn, but it is mostly quiet, except
for one large tent.
Tamal and two other men ride up on horses. Dismounting and
going inside the tent.
9 INT. LAMANITE TENT -- CONTINUOUS 9
Eight barbaric looking men sit around a rather large table
feasting.
Tamal enters, stopping just inside the tent.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.26
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
9 CONTINUED: 9
LAMANITE CONSPIRACY LEADER
TAMAL!, what word do you bring from
Ishmael?
It is obvious at this point that Tamal is just a peon here.
These men are the leaders of the rebelion.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
The rumors are true, people have
gathered from all of the Lands of
Nephi, King Nephi-Lehi and Lamoni,
along with the Nephites have gathered
there.
LAMANITE CONSPIRACY LEADER
(unbelieving)
Do they really gather to bury their
weapons?
CAPTIAN TAMAL
The ceremony is this night.
LAMANITE CONSPIRACY LEADER
(laughing)
Are they mad?
(beat)
They must know we are here.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
They believe their God will save
them.
LAMANITE CONSPIRACY LEADER
Do you believe their God will save
them?
CAPTIAN TAMAL
I believe that we will have no trouble
replacing the King, or putting down
the Lamanite Traitors, if we strike
soon.
LAMANITE CONSPIRACY LEADER
Good, then ready the men, you will
leave immediately.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.27
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
9 CONTINUED: (2) 9
Tamal bows his head and leaves the tent.
CUT TO:
10 INT. INTERIOR MARKET OF ISHMAEL CITY - ESTABLISHING-- NIGHT 10
ANGLE CUTS MULTIPLE TIMES
to show a montage of shots, showing:
The market is now full of thousands of people who are all
enjoying the festivities and food.
It looks somewhat like a fair with music and dancing groups,
etc.
11 INT. KING'S CONFERENCE ROOM ISHMAEL -- CONTINUOUS 11
The kings are being dressed into extravagant clothing, which
include everything from headdresses to the final touch of a
beautifully designed sword, all while carrying on this
conversation:
KING NEPHI-LEHI
Brother, have we made the right
choice?
KING LAMONI
Have you any doubts?
Nephi-Lehi ponders for a moment, but answers with confidence.
KING NEPHI-LEHI
(confidently)
I have no doubts,
(questioning)
but should we not let our people
make the choice for themselves?
KING LAMONI
Our people are here because of the
choices they have made,
(bead)
Our people have chosen us to lead
them. Still, they are free to do as
they desire. But any choice to fight,
would be at their own peril.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.28
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
11 CONTINUED: 11
Nephi-Lehi knew this, but this young Kings ability to trust
the choices he has made is lacking. He want to serve his
people righteously and up to this point always has.
A moment goes by while they the final touches are made to
their outfits.
KING LAMONI (CONT'D)
Bring it among our people.
Nephi-Lehi looks a little stunned at his brothers request,
as each King is handed an extravagantly decorated sword.
KING LAMONI (CONT'D)
See what is in their hearts.
King Lamoni hangs the sword on his side and walks towards
the entrance to the balcony (Nephi-Lehi follows only after
he struggles with attaching his sword), where they overlook
the giant celebration.
Lamoni look over at the Temple and up where he will soon
address his people, there we see two pillars which put off
giant flames that completely light the top of the temple.
Nephi-Lehi barely looks out over the people before:
KING LAMONI (CONT'D)
Let us go now and address the people.
Lamoni turns and walks back inside, while Nephi-Lehi takes
just another second to look over the celebration, then follows
his brother.
CUT TO:
12 EXT. INTERIOR MARKET OF ISHMAEL CITY -- CONTINUOUS 12
Gid and his family have just arrived to the Celebration.
Both Amulon and Amoron are carrying swords covered in cloths.
Gid looks around in amazement at the number of people
gathered, and all of the festivities taking place.
As Gid takes in the site, his attention, as well as most
everyone else, is focused to the side of the temple where a
very large group of dancers begins to put on a show.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.29
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
12 CONTINUED: 12
ANGLE ON
this group which is spread out over the distance of the face
of the temple and spans most of the upper portion of the
temple. During the dance, the Temple slowly becomes lit up
by the dancers who light hundreds of torches that are placed
to draw the attention to the top, where the Kings will soon
be.
The finally ends with something being thrown into the flames
of the two giant pillars, causing a giant fireball to flash
and the music stops. All is quiet.
ANGLE ON
The top of the Temple where the Kings Guard walks out to the
edge of the top of the temple.
KINGS GUARD
Beloved people of Ishmael and of the
Lands of Nephi,
(motioning to Lamoni)
King Lamoni of Ishmael.
As the Guard steps aside, King Lamoni walks out to where his
people can all see him. When he appears, all of the people
begin to cheer exceedingly.
KING LAMONI
(smiling, holding up
hands to quiet the
people)
Please.....Please....
The crowd becomes quiet once again.
KING LAMONI (CONT'D)
I welcome those of you, who have
chosen to come this day.
(beat)
We rejoice in knowing that so many
of this great land have chosen to
open your hearts and trust in the
faith of your God.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.30
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
12 CONTINUED: (2) 12
KING LAMONI (CONT'D)
(beat)
We have prayed for wisdom in leading
you, our people, righteously.
Believing the reason we have come
together this day, will be a testimony
to God, that we as a people will
never fall away.
The people begin to cheer.
KING LAMONI (CONT'D)
(as the crowd quiets)
It is now my honor to introduce to
you my brother, the King of the Lands
of Nephi.
Again the people begin to cheer, as King Lamoni steps back
and Nephi-Lehi steps up.
He stands there for a moment just looking out over the crowd.
It is obvious that even he is amazed at the number of people,
too many to fit inside the market area, spilling out past
the small wall.
KING NEPHI-LEHI
(motioning for silence)
I stand here in amazement at the
number of our people that have
gathered here this day,
(beat)
A great number have traveled many
days, I honor all of you who have
sacrificed to be here.
(beat)
We have gathered together this day
for a great purpose. Not only will
we unit as one people, but we will
show God our true hearts by placing
our weapons of war,
(pointing to opening
at base of temple)
deep within the earth, where they
will be clean from stain forever.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.31
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
12 CONTINUED: (3) 12
Again, the people cheer for a moment then become quiet again
as to listen to Nephi-Lehi. However, He just looks out over
the people. His face showing the somber reality.
KING NEPHI-LEHI (CONT'D)
(complete soberness)
It is with great regret that I now
bring you this word, which was
delivered from the Sons of Mosiah to
us this day.
(beat)
Our fellow brethren who do not gather
here this day, have taken up arms to
come here and destroy us.
(beat)
It is our belief that our brethren
will be here in two mornings light.
King Nephi-Lehi is overcome with emotion.
KING NEPHI-LEHI (CONT'D)
They have chosen to strike at our
weakness, and we will shall only
have God to protect us. Still, you
must decide what will be best for
your families...
ANGLE ON
Nephi-Lehi who begins to realize that many of his people are
moving towards the temple. All of which are men who carry
weapons. As he looks out, men are coming from as far back
as he can see.
Nephi-Lehi looks back at his brother who smiles and bows his
head slightly as if to say "now do you see".
ANGLE ON
the base of the Temple where the entrance to the Tombs is.
Several hundred men are knelt down in prayer. One by one
men begin to rise and walk towards the opening which leads
down under the temple. Each man grabs a unlit tourch and
passes it over one of flames at the entrance, then proceeds
down into the tomb.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.32
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
12 CONTINUED: (4) 12
ANGLE ON
Amulon and Amoron who are behind the line of men covenanting.
As the man in front of them stands up they take his place.
Amulon takes out his magnificent sword and places in on the
ground in front of him, then begins to pray.
ANGLE ON
Gid and his family who watch the ceremony take place, they
all watch reverently.
ANGLE ON
The line of men coming out of the temple, each hands his
torch to a man entering the stairway leading down.
ANGLE ON
Amulon who's eyes open, as he reaches down to take up his
sword. He then stands and walks to the entrance, where he
takes a torch and enters the stairway.
13 INT. SACRED BURIAL TOMB FOR WEAPONS, ISHMAEL -- CONTINUOUS 13
The stairway must lead 30' underground, there it ends and a
doorway leads off to the left. The doorway leads into a
very large stone room, decorated beyond belief. Intricate
carvings of this ceramony cover the walls, along with
spectacular murals.
Amulon looks around the room, which is very well lit by
several torches, carried by the other men in the room ahead
of him. Each man places his weapon along the wall opposite
the entrance into the room, then leaves.
Amulon places his sword along the wall then proceeds out of
the room.
CUT TO:
14 EXT. INTERIOR MARKET OF ISHMAEL CITY -- CONTINUOUS 14
Both Kings stand watching the ceremony take place. Each
filled with joy.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.33
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
14 CONTINUED: 14
KING LAMONI
Now let us pray that Ammon returns
quickly.
FADE OUT:
15 EXT. OUTSIDE GID'S HOME, ISHMAEL-- MORNING 15
FADE IN:
The early morning fog has yet to lift from the ground as Gid
swings open the door of his home and briskly runs into the
woods.
CUT TO:
16 P.O.V. WOODED AREA AROUND ISHMAEL CITY -- MOMENTS LATER 16
Gid is running through the woods, ducking under fallen trees
and jumping over stumps. It is obviously that he knows where
he is going.
CUT TO:
17 EXT. WOODED AREA AROUND ISHMAEL CITY -- CONTINUOUS 17
Gid comes to an abrupt stop in a small clearing. He looks
carefully around, then closes his eyes and listens to the
sounds in the woods.
O.S. a movement in the brush can be heard. Gid immediately
opens his eyes and whips around prepared to defend himself.
Then from behind
JACOB (O.S.)
(Yelling)
AAAHHHHH!!!
As Gid starts to turn around, a blur hits him, knocking him
to the ground.
ANGLE ON
JACOB has Gid pinned to the ground. Gid struggles to get
free, but Jacob is clearly bigger than Gid.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.34
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
17 CONTINUED: 17
JACOB (CONT'D)
(laughing and proud)
The Mighty Jacob goes undefeated!!
With Gid still struggling to free himself
YOUNG GID
(Angrily)
Jacob, remove yourself from me!!!
(beat)
You win... get OFF!!
JACOB
(Joking)
Will you serve me as my...
Then out of nowhere,
YOUNG TEOMNER
AAAHHHHH!!!
TEOMNER tackles Jacob, but looses the advantage quickly to
Jacob's size. It only takes a moment for Gid to get up and
help Teomner.
But the struggle is really no use, even at two against one,
Gid and Teomner can't overpower Jacob. The struggle ends
with both Gid and Teomner pinned down by Jacob. Jacob just
giggles as both boys struggle to free themselves. Once the
struggle stops, the mood changes.
JACOB
(innocently)
Did you goto the celebration?
YOUNG GID
Of course, where you not there?
Jacob seems a little closed as he gets off of the other two
boys.
YOUNG GID (CONT'D)
(sitting up)
What is wrong?
Jacob says nothing while his back is turned, but when he
does turn around, tears are running down his face.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.35
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
17 CONTINUED: (2) 17
YOUNG GID (CONT'D)
(very concerned)
Jacob, what is wrong, why are you
crying?
JACOB
Will we all die?
Teomner looks at Jacob in disbelief.
YOUNG TEOMNER
What do you mean?
JACOB
When they come to destroy us
(beat)
will we all die?
Gid and Jacob look at each other. It is obvious that neither
has given the thought since the ceremony. Both walk to their
friend and console him.
YOUNG GID
Jacob, all of our weapons of war
have been sealed away, we can not
fight.
JACOB
(relieved)
Really, will they still come to
Ishmael?
YOUNG TEOMNER
If they do, they will leave when
they see we will not fight.
In the background, towards the city, a loud horn can be heard.
All of the boys are startles by the sound. Gid looks at
Teomner.
JACOB
Is that coming from the city?
Neither of the boys replies, but just stand silent, listening
for another blow.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.36
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
17 CONTINUED: (3) 17
Again the Horn drifts through the forest. Both Gid and
Teomner look at each other, then run towards the city.
JACOB (CONT'D)
(just standing there)
Where are you going?
YOUNG TEOMNER
(looking over his
shoulder)
Go home Jacob, you'll be safe their.
Both boys disapear into the forest, while Jacob just stands
there watching them.
CUT TO:
18 INT. GID'S HOME, ISHMAEL -- MOMENTS LATER 18
Gid barrels through the door
YOUNG GID
Father?
stopping in the middle of the room, Gid looks around to find
the hut empty.
Again the horn blows, but this time it is louder. He doesn't
think twice before running out of the house.
19 EXT. OUTSIDE GID'S HOME, ISHMAEL -- CONTINUOUS 19
Gid run out of the door and stops, he looks a little
distraught. Looking around he sees nothing, hears nothing.
YOUNG TEOMNER (O.S.)
Gid!
(beat)
Gid!
Gid turns to see Teomner running towards him
YOUNG TEOMNER (CONT'D)
My family is gone, everyone is gone.
YOUNG GID
They must be in the city.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.37
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
19 CONTINUED: 19
Both boys run off towards the city
CUT TO:
20 EXT. INTERIOR MARKET OF ISHMAEL CITY -- MOMENTS LATER 20
Hundreds of people are in market, most of the focus is on
the giant flat stone that is being lifted into the air.
People are working frantically to set the stone in place to
seal the burial tomb.
Suddenly the horn blows again. Now we can see the men at
the top of the Temple who blow the horns.
Now any people that are not working on sealing the tomb leave
the market area through the gate which leads our of the city.
ANGLE ON
Gid and Teomner who run into the market. Both stop and look
around at the chaos.
YOUNG TEOMNER
What is happening?
YOUNG GID
They are sealing the tomb.
YOUNG TEOMNER
Where is everyone else?
YOUNG GID
(pointing)
It looks as though they are leaving
the city.
YOUNG TEOMNER
Should we not also leave then?
Gid thinks for a moment, looking around as if to find the
answer. His focus falls upon the people who are lifting the
sealing stone into place.
With a loud thud and trembling of the earth the stone is
dropped perfectly into place. Gid jumps as he is startled
by the magnitude of the event.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.38
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
20 CONTINUED: 20
As quickly as the stone is in place, everyone else heads out
of the city.
YOUNG GID
Let us not be the only ones left
here.
Both boys join the others in leaving the city.
ANGLE ON
Gid and Teomner who push their way through the others who
file out through the small gate.
21 EXT. OUTSIDE ISHMAEL CITY WALLS -- CONTINUOUS 21
Once through the gate we see that the people are walking
away from the city. Thousands of people are gathered several
hundred yards from the city, all seem to be prostrate upon
the ground.
Gid and Teomner move quickly though the crowd looking for
their families. In doing so the boys become separated, but
continue to keep looking.
CUT TO:
22 EXT. FOREST CLEARING SOMEWHERE OUTSIDE ISHMAEL -- MOMENTS
LATER 22
The tree canopy, looking from the ground up into the sky.
ANGLE PULLS DOWN
Several of Ammon's Brethren are sitting on the ground around
a campfire. Some lean against tree stumps, while others are
hunched over their knees. The men seem to be meditating or
maybe just sleeping
Their horses graze on nearby foliage.
PAN OVER
to show Ammon kneeling in prayer. A great light shines down
towards him as he prays. As though only one beam of light
is shining through the tree canopy.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.39
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
22 CONTINUED: 22
After a few moments the light pulls away, leaving Ammon's
surroundings normal.
ANGLE ON
the front of Ammon still in prayer.
Ammon's eyes open abruptly and we see great fear in his eyes.
He quickly jumps up and runs towards his camp.
CUT TO:
23 EXT. OUTSIDE ISHMAEL CITY WALLS -- MOMENTS LATER 23
Gid has reached the rest of the people who are all prostate
on the ground. He looks out over the thousands of people
for his family, but there are just so many people, he'll
need to walk among these people to find them.
Suddenly all becomes quiet. Gid notices the change and looks
behind.
ANGLE ON
The last of the people are kneeling down. The only other
child he sees is Teomner who also looks around. Both make
eye contacts, but are afraid to make any noise, Gid just
shrugs his shoulders.
Then Gid begins to walk towards the front of the people,
looking for his family. Gid looks down at the people.
Everyone is here, men, women, and children. It is eery how
quiet it is. Then suddenly, Gid's attention is broken by a
deep thundering sound off in the distance, but it is coming
closer.
24 EXT. FOREST SOMEWHERE OUTSIDE ISHMAEL -- CONTINUOUS 24
We see a great force of men marching line by line. At the
head of this army we see several men on horseback. All the
men carry weapons like: swords, spears or modified clubs.
Although this is a great army, they are a barbaric looking
group.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.40
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
24 CONTINUED: 24
ANGLE ON
Captain Tamal, the leader of the army, who sits high atop
his black horse. He comes to a stop as he looks at the great
city whose base is covered in fog. The entire army comes to
a stop behind Tamal.
Tamal signals his troops to spread out, which they do. The
army now stretches out from right to left as far as can be
seen through the fog.
KORHORIAN
(laughing)
This is the city that we have come
to destroy?
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(angrily)
This city is to be left standing,
You may have the kings to do with as
you please, But the city remains
mine.
KORHORIAN
How do you plan to take their amry
in this?
KORHORIAN (a skinny 'stooley' looking fellow, about 35 yr.
old)is speaking about the fog, and trying to belittle Tamal.
But Tamal does not even address Korhorian.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(to an Archer behind
him)
You,
(pointing)
Go and bring me word on the readiness
of their armies.
The man puts his bow down and cowers into the fog.
KORHORIAN
How do they even know that we are
here?
(beat)
Maybe we can take them by surprise.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.41
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
24 CONTINUED: (2) 24
CAPTIAN TAMAL
Have you heard the horn?
KORHORIAN
Of course.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
They know we are here.
Korhorian is somewhat surprised, how would they know in this
fog.
KORHORIAN
Are you sure?
Tamal doesn't even take the time to answer, instead he just
glares at him, almost as if saying, "I should kill you right
now".
Suddenly the ARCHER appears from the fog. White as a ghost,
he just looks up at Tamal.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
I gave you an order.
ARCHER
Yes captain, I....
(beat)
They are directly in front of us,
(beat)
I was running towards the city, I
ran right into them.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(very surprised)
How many?
ARCHER
All of them I think, But captain
they are all down on their knees,
(beat)
Men, women, and even children.
KORHORIAN
It is a trap!
(beat)
we must retreat.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.42
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
24 CONTINUED: (3) 24
CAPTIAN TAMAL
Will our arrows reach them?
The Archer looks horrified.
ARCHER
Yes captain, but I did not see a
weapon, I do not think they are here
to fight.
Tamal ignores everything after Yes and proceeds with the
slaughter.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(to the archers)
Fire directly ahead, as far as your
arrows will carry.
All of the archers load their weapon and draw.
ARCHER
But Captain,
(beat)
please you must at least..
Before the man can complete his plea, Tamal's sword end the
arches life.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
Release!
CUT TO:
25 EXT. OUTSIDE ISHMAEL CITY WALLS -- CONTINUOUS 25
The sound of Tamal's order is clearly heard. Gid now stands
much closer to the front his people. He is horrified at the
sound of Tamal's voice.
But again all is quiet, for the moment, then hundreds of
arrows pierce the veil of fog and strike all around him.
Gid is horrified as he looks around. Many of the arrows hit
their target.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.43
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
25 CONTINUED: 25
26 EXT. FOREST CLEARING SOMEWHERE OUTSIDE ISHMAEL -- CONTINUOUS 26
Tamal looks into the fog, listening for something. But
nothing is heard.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(angrily)
You missed them,
(beat)
fire again!
Again the men load and fire, and again their is no sound.
Tamal is becoming very angry.
KORHORIAN
There is nobody out there.
Tamal just stares ahead
CAPTIAN TAMAL
They are out there.
(yelling)
Ready Arms!
All men pull out their weapons.
CAPTIAN TAMAL (CONT'D)
Attack!!
MASTER ANGLE
The barbaric army wastes no time in charging towards the
unknown. A giant roar is all that can be heard.
Tamal watches thousands of men run past him.
27 EXT. OUTSIDE ISHMAEL CITY WALLS -- CONTINUOUS 27
Gid stands there in horror as the giant roar heads his way.
He immediatly looks at Teomner who seems to also be frozen
in his tracks, white as a ghost.
Then suddenly the barbarians break through the fog, falling
upon the prostrate people.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.44
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
27 CONTINUED: 27
Gid scans the crowd, watching the horrific slaughter of his
people. The men just keep coming from the fog. Suddenly
his focus changes to one of the Lamanite Soldiers that ends
a life with every swing of the sword. The hatred and anger
are obvious with each stroke.
The a man catches his eye, Gid see's his Father who is only
20 or so feet away, right in the line of destruction of the
Soldier he has been fixated on.
ANGLE ON
Gid, who has now turned pale white, he has just realized
that his father is next in line to be slain.
YOUNG GID
(Screaming)
Papa!!
Gid runs towards his father.
ANGLE ON
Gid's Father who is still praying, and never see's the blade
coming. The Lamanite makes the pass, slicing Gid's fathers
chest and neck open. Then lifts the sword high above his
head preparing to finish the job.
Suddenly Gid is on top of his father hunched over the lifeless
body. Gid holds his hand up, looking directly into the eyes
of the Lamanite
YOUNG GID (CONT'D)
(begging)
Please, please
ANGLE ON
the Lamanite's face turns from an evil vengeance look to a
lost child's face. Slowly he lowers the sword, finally
releasing it to fall to the ground.
The Lamanite turns and looks around, seeing the destruction
and life loss, he falls to his knees crying, begging for
forgiveness.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.45
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
27 CONTINUED: (2) 27
LAMANITE SOLDIER #1
(crying)
God please forgive me...
Gid looks at the soldier for a moment in total confusion.
Then looks around to see that many of the Lamanite men are
just looking around, some are even trying to stop others.
But men are still charging from the fog.
ANGLE ON
LAMANITE SOLDIER #2 who is looking out over the prostrate
people, then looks back towards the Lamanite Army that is
still pouring out from the fog. His attention is focused on
one man who has hate in his eyes and is pushing his way
through the other men, just to get to some fresh blood.
Lamanite soldier #2 runs to intercept this man, only finding
that he ends up in a fight with him, having to kill him in
order to stop him.
Other men to are also trying to stop the bloodshed, some
have just fallen to the ground in guilt.
ANGLE ON
Tamal towering over Lamanite Soldier #1
CAPTIAN TAMAL
Get up you coward
The Lamanite Soldier looks up at the Captain and then begins
to pray like the other Nephi-Lehi People.
Tamal is furious and kicks the the Lamanite Soldier in the
face, slicing his face open.
CAPTIAN TAMAL (CONT'D)
(yelling)
You cowards fight!!
No normal sounds of battle can be heard, no clanging of metal,
no cries of death.. Just silence..
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.46
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
27 CONTINUED: (3) 27
CAPTIAN TAMAL (CONT'D)
Finish them all!! Take this City, I
command you..
All the Lamanites just stand there. Even they can see they've
lost...
CAPTIAN TAMAL (CONT'D)
Keep fighting!
Tamal moves his horse into a better position and slays one
of the Anti Nephi Lehi People still praying, then another.
His anger just keeps growing. Finally it grows so large he
starts slaying his own soldiers for just standing there.
The Captain yells at one of his own soldiers to kill a man
he stands next to.
CAPTIAN TAMAL (CONT'D)
Kill that man!
But the soldier just shrugs his shoulders.
LAMANITE SOLDIER #2
(questioning)
He's not armed, non of these people
are armed.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
Then you can take his place.
Tamal runs him through. The soldier stands there for a moment
then falls to his knees, eventually dying and falling over.
CAPTIAN TAMAL (CONT'D)
(yelling at all the
men)
You cowards!
(beat)
LAMONI!, This is not the end, I will
be back.
Tamal turn and leaves the battle field, most of the men
follow, but many stay behind.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.47
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
27 CONTINUED: (4) 27
FADE OUT:
28 EXT. OUTSIDE ISHMAEL CITY WALLS -- LATER 28
People are wandering through the thousand and five lifeless
bodies. Some are looking for loved ones, while others are
just trying to make sense of it all.
ANGLE ON
a mother sobbing while holding her lifeless infant child in
her arms. Next to her we see another young child lying still
on the ground.
ANGLE PULL BACK
to show two men come up to the sobbing mother. One man leans
over to console the woman, the other picks up the lifeless
child lying on the ground.
As the man turns the child over, we realize it is Jacob. He
was killed by an arrow through the chest.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT ONE
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.48
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
28
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
29 EXT. SOMEWHERE ON THE HIGHWAY BETWEEN ISHMAEL AND ZARAHEMLA --
DAY 29
Thousands of people are led by Ammon and his Brethren. These
people are carrying, pushing, and pulling all of their most
valuable possessions, which include clothes, children,
animals, etc.. Some of the people are very sad, while other
are just plain sad looking. It is obvious that these people
have been walking for days, if not weeks or even months.
GID (V.O.)
In the Fifteenth Year of the Reign
of Judges, Ammon led the People of
Anti_Nephi_Lehi out of Ishmael.
(beat)
After several weeks of walking, we
reached Zarahemla, only to be welcomed
with love and honor by the Nephites
30 EXT. OUTSIDE THE GREAT CITY OF ZARAHEMLA -- MORNING 30
Establishment shot of the great city of Zarahemla, with the
Anti Nephi Lehi People gathered in a large open area in front
of the city.
GID (V.O.)
The Nephite people, hearing of the
great injustice, elected to give the
Lands of Jershon to this our
covenanted people as an inheritance.
31 INT. KING'S CONFERENCE ROOM ZARAHEMLA -- LATER 31
Ammon and the King's meet and embrace. It is a comforting
site.
GID (V.O.)
With one agreement: Being that we
might give a portion of our entire
substance to support the Nephite
Armies that would in return protect
us.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.49
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
31 CONTINUED: 31
GID (V.O.) (CONT'D)
(beat)
It wasn't long after our arrival,
that the Nephites gave our people a
new name: The People Of Ammon.
32 EXT. SOMEWHERE ON THE HIGHWAY BETWEEN ISHMAEL AND ZARAHEMLA --
LATER 32
Again the people are traveling. Here we see more joy and
overall happiness. Spirits are higher now and children are
playing little games while they walk.
GID (V.O.)
It was not many years after we had
settled in Jershon that we were forced
to relocate North, to the city of
Melek, where the Nephite's could
better protect us.
(beat)
It was there that my people called
home. For thirteen harvest seasons
it was there that we lived in peace
and harmony,
(beat)
Until one day at the beginning of
harvest season that all changed.
CUT TO:
33 INT. CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS -- DAY 33
A large open room with stone seating built into the exterior
wall, where a hundred or more men site. At the head of the
room is an elevated stage, upon the elevation sits a group
of 7 stone chairs, all occupied save the one in the middle,
the one of authority.
At the head of the room we see Amoron, Gid's grandfather,
among the men. All of the men at the head are distinguished
and honorable looking me, all well dressed in stature.
CYDEL is one of the men seated upon the stage, He currently
address' the group.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.50
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
33 CONTINUED: 33
CYDEL
This is where you are wrong my friend,
This is not a tradition we live,
this is a covenant we took, a promise
which each one of us have made to
God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
(beat)
I would not think thirteen harvest
seasons would be long enough for us
to forget.
From within the crowd on the floor.
AMMONITE #1
Your Honor, I fear that by allowing
our brothers to die this day, by
standing here in the cloak of safety
in which our brothers provide each
of us, we will surely be judged. So
which is worse.
(beat, looking at the
crowd)
I would rather fight for my liberties
and loose my life then be judged for
my sins of omission.
Many of the men agree. Defeated, Cydel shakes his head an
sits down.
AMMONITE #2
Even Judge Moroni has been called
back to Zarahemla. It is clear our
brothers can bare no more. We can no
longer stand by and watch the Nephite
people fall, as we will surely be
next.
The motivation is growing.
ANGLE ON
Amoron who slowly stands up and walks to the edge of the
stage. In response the crowd quickly quiets. The respect is
obvious.
Those who are not immediately quite are shunned by the others,
Amoron is going to speak.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.51
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
33 CONTINUED: (2) 33
Amoron peers our over the men in deep thought. Humbly he
speaks.
AMORON - GID'S GRANDFATHER
Many words of truth have been spoken
here this day. If I were a younger
man, I might also be inclined to
take up arms again to defend our
protectors
(beat)
There is little more to be said here,
now. So let us return to our homes
and families, let each on of us pray
diligently to our God and ask him
what he would have you do.
(beat)
A new Judge should arrive here from
Zarahemla before first moons light.
At this time let us gather together
once again to discuss this matter.
(beat)
May god be with you.
The mood has become somber. Each man quietly leaves the
council chambers.
Each of the council members rise and gather in a circle on
the stage.
CYDEL
Brother Amoron, those were wise words,
I commend you.
AMORON - GID'S GRANDFATHER
I know that this group is divided
even unto us. But I know the one
place we can each go to find truth.
I pray that each of us will find
that truth on our knees before we
meet again.
Amoron turns and walks from the circle. Each man respectfully
bows his head to Amoron.
CUT TO:
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.52
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
33 CONTINUED: (3) 33
34 EXT. OUTSIDE CITY OF MELEK -- DAY 34
35 EXT. COURTYARD IN FRONT OF THE TEMPLE, MELEK -- MOMENTS
LATER 35
ANGLE ON
The 2000, all moving forward at half-march.
END OF ACT TWO
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.53
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
35
ACT THREE
36 EXT. COURTYARD IN FRONT OF THE TEMPLE, MELEK -- CONTINUOUS 36
The 2K Warriors are marching out of Melek.
Thousands of family & friends watch as their salvation marches
off to battle.
ANGLE ON
Sariah and Isabel, who watch there best fiends leave for an
indefinite amount of time.
ISABEL
(teary eyed)
I can't believe they're going
Sariah consoles Isabel as they watch the 2K disappear out of
the city.
CUT TO:
37 EXT. HIGHWAY TO JUDEA -- CONTINUOUS 37
2K Stripling Warriors march their way to Judea, in an attempt
to support the Army's of Antipus.
NARRATOR (V.O.)
In the 26th Year of the Reign of
Judges Helaman led our small army of
two thousand young men along a narrow
stretch of highway to the city of
Judea.
CUT TO:
38 EXT. CITY OF JUDEA -- MORNING 38
Establish City of Judea, We see a great unfortified city.
NARRATOR (V.O.)
We marched for what seemed like weeks,
before reaching the unfortified city.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.54
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
38 CONTINUED: 38
NARRATOR (V.O.) (CONT'D)
(beat)
We were only there a short time before
it became obvious that we were sent
hear to help fortify the city. *
(beat)
Although it wasn't a problem for any
of us, for we knew that this city
would play a major role in taking
back the city of Antiparah.
CUT TO:
39 EXT. DRY MOAT OF FORTIFICATION WALL, JUDEA -- DAY 39
Hundreds of the stripling warriors are fortifying the walls
around Judea. Digging dry moats, throwing the dirt from the
excavation up to form an inner embankment.
NARRATOR (V.O.)
Over a year had passed before we
completed the fortification, and
still we had never seen battle.
40 EXT. OPEN FIELD INSIDE JUDEA -- CONTINUOUS 40
An open field being used to train the 2K warriors for combat
and the use of different weapons.
ANGLE ON
Two Nephite Soldiers, demonstrating the use of a sling. The
man swings the sling high above, releasing....
ANGLE ON
A tree, with a white circle painted in the center and the
large rock from the sling striking directly into the painted
area
NARRATOR (V.O.)
And because none of us had ever seen
battle before, It was a time of
learning,
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.55
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
40 CONTINUED: 40
NARRATOR (V.O.) (CONT'D)
(beat)
Learning not only to use different
weapons, but strategic warfare,
although we hadn't been given the
chance to use any of our knowledge
CUT TO:
41 INT. STRATEGIC TENT OF ANTIPUS, JUDEA -- CONTINUOUS 41
Antipus stands at the edge of a large table. Which atop is
a large map of the surrounding areas. Including: highways,
cities, bodies of water, and mountainous terrain.
Antipus, along with two captains, neither of which are
Helaman's son's, move small figurines around on the map. It
is obvious that they are talking about strategic moves against
the Lamanites.
NARRATOR (V.O.)
Once the city became fortified we
began receiving reinforcements and
supplies daily.
(beat)
It wasn't long before our spies told
us that the Lamanites were beginning
to grow uneasy.
(beat)
We knew at that time that it wouldn't
be long until we would go to battle
ANTIPUS'S 1ST CAPTAIN
(angrily)
We must move now, if we expect to
have the advantage over the Lamanite's
Antipus is showing concern with the idea
ANTIPUS
I will not lead my men or Helaman's
son's to their death.
ANTIPUS'S 1ST CAPTAIN
We will not receive anymore
reinforcements until after harvest,
and that may be too late.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.56
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
41 CONTINUED: 41
Antipus stares at the map for a moment when suddenly.
ANTIPUS
How quickly can the Lamanites be
prepared to battle?
ANTIPUS'S 1ST CAPTAIN
Our spies have informed us that the
quickest they can be ready, is half
a day.
Antipus studies the map again then a smile comes across his
face.
Antipus turns to one of two guards standing at the entrance
to the tent.
ANTIPUS
Bring Helaman here immediately
The guard nods his head and proceeds out of the tent.
ANGLE ON ANTIPUS
who stands at front of the table with a satisfied look on
his face.
CUT TO:
42 EXT. OPEN FIELD INSIDE JUDEA -- MOMENTS LATER 42
Gid, Teomner, Abrim, Jarius, Tyrus and Timothy stand facing
the tree on which the white target has been painted.
The other boys quietly watch
Jarius loads up the sling and fires it towards the tree, but
misses it by several feet.
SW TYRUS
Oh! That was pathetic.
SW JARIUS
(defensively)
Let's see you do better
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.57
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
42 CONTINUED: 42
Jarius throws the sling at Tyrus. Hitting Tyrus directly in
the chest.
Tyrus picks up a rock from the pile on the ground and loads
the sling. Then whips the sling around and around, releasing
and
ANGLE ON
The painted tree, as the rock goes sailing by, missing it by
several feet.
ANGLE BACK ON
SW JARIUS (CONT'D)
(sarcastically)
Oh! That was pathetic
Tyrus looks at Jarius
SW TYRUS
Well I knew I couldn't do any worse
than you
(beat)
I don't think anyone could make this
thing work right
Teomner eyes the sling for a moment then
TEOMNER
Tyrus? Let me see it
Teomner loads up the sling and gets use to the feel of it as
he swings it around and around. He takes his time just
feeling the rhythm.
SW TYRUS
It's not going to jump out of the
sling by itself.
Teomner looks at Tyrus and smiles, then briefly looks at the
tree then releases
ANGLE ON THE TREE
KNOCK! The rock hits dead center chipping a large piece of
the painted bark off
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.58
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
42 CONTINUED: (2) 42
ANGLE ON
The very surprised boys, who immediately run up to the tree
to check out the damage done.
SW JARIUS
Oh man! He hit it dead center
SW ABRIM
(looking at teomner)
How did you do that?
(beat)
Can you do it again?
Teomner leaves the other boys still looking at the tree, and
walks back to the pile of rocks, picking out a perfect rock
and loading it in the sling.
The boys are still going nuts over the fact that Teomner
actually hit the tree.
Teomner swings the rock around, getting the sling up to speed
then eyes the tree.
At the same time the boys realize Teomner is going to shoot
the rock at them, Teomner releases the sling. All either
dive to the side or flinch enough to turn their backs.
ANGLE ON
the tree, KNOCK! Again the rock hits dead center
The boys should be upset, but they are all stunned that
Teomner hit the tree again. And dead center again!
Gid looks back at Teomner and shakes his head
HELAMAN (O.S.)
It looks like one of my sons has
learned to use the sling
It's obvious that they are in a military setting, because
all of the boys have focused their attention on Helaman, and
the only one to speak is Gid.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.59
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
42 CONTINUED: (3) 42
GID
Father, so far Teomner is the only
one to successfully hit the target
Helaman walks over to Teomner
HELAMAN
More than once?
TEOMNER
Two times
HELAMAN
And how many times have you attempted?
TEOMNER
Two times
HELAMAN
(no expression)
When you can hit the mark ten time
in a row, You will be ready to use
the sling in battle.
As Helaman talks with the boys, Antipus's guard enters the
scene. He walks up and stands directly next to Helaman.
Helaman turns to the guard.
ANTIPUS'S GAURD
Captain Helaman, Antipus requests
your presence.
Helaman turns to the boys
HELAMAN
Good job, continue on
Helaman follows the guard off scene
CUT TO:
43 INT. STRATEGIC TENT OF ANTIPUS, JUDEA -- MOMENTS LATER 43
Antipus in now sitting at another smaller table eating. His
Chief Captains are no longer in the tent.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.60
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
43 CONTINUED: 43
ANGLE ON
The entrance to the tent, where Helaman walks through followed
by the guard who takes his place back at the entrance.
MASTER ANGLE
Shows the entire tent from the opposite end of Antipus
ANTIPUS
(getting up)
Helaman!
(beat)
I have some exciting news
Antipus directs Helaman to the Map on the table
ANTIPUS (CONT'D)
I have found a way to keep your young
warriors our of harms way, when we
take Antiparah
Helaman looks with anticipation
P.O.V.
looking down on map table, where we see a simplistic map of
central america. Showing Judea, Antiparah and several wooden
figures that obviously represent armies or cities
Antipus points to and moves the wooden figures around with a
short stick.
ANTIPUS (CONT'D)
In order for us to successfully defeat
The largest Lamanite Army, we must
first draw them out of Antiparah
(beat)
Far enough away that we are on neutral
ground.
While explaining the stratagems, Antipus moves the wooden
figures accordingly.
HELAMAN
I agree, but how do we draw them
out?
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.61
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
43 CONTINUED: (2) 43
ANTIPUS
If you take your two thousand son's
and a small convoy of supplies to
the city here, by the north shores
(pointing to map)
You will have to march right past
Antiparah
Antipus starts to pace as he talks
ANTIPUS (CONT'D)
Now our spies have informed us that
it will take the Lamanites half a
day to be ready to march, once they
decide to leave
(beat)
Once the Lamanites have sought after
you, I will take my men and come at
them from behind. Which should keep
you out of harms way.
Antipus returns to the table
ANTIPUS (CONT'D)
My army will march here in the lower
valley
(pointing)
This will give us the advantage.
(beat)
Once we are far enough away from
Antiparah, they will have no choice
but to turn and fight.
(beat)
At which time your army should still
be half a days march ahead.
Antipus is very confident that this is a great plan and stands
there with a very satisfied look on his face.
HELAMAN
When do we leave?
ANTIPUS
My men will be prepared to leave
tomorrow, So you will leave at first
mornings light.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.62
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
43 CONTINUED: (3) 43
Helaman gives Antipus a half nod.
HELAMAN
We will be ready
CUT TO:
44 EXT. OPEN FIELD INSIDE JUDEA -- MORNING 44
The 2K Warriors are lined up and prepared to leave on their
march to the city on the north shore.
ANGLE ON
Helaman, who has just come from his tent near the head of
the 2K. Helaman walks up some stairs to address them. All
of the 2K listen with anticipation.
HELAMAN
My two thousand sons,
Helaman pauses and looks out over his 2000 son's. His emotion
boils up inside. Although he wants to weep at the thought
that in a few days any of his sons could be dead, he shows
joy that they will soon be doing what they left home to do,
defend their country.
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
This is a proud day for each one of
us. We have been given the honor of
drawing out the Greatest Armies of
the Lamanites.
(beat)
Leading them away from their
stronghold in which they have cowardly
hidden themselves for so long.
Helaman pause to gather his thoughts,
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
When we leave here today, we will be
at the mercies of God.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.63
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
44 CONTINUED: 44
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
Your faith is strong, and your love
is great. I pray at this time that
each one of you is delivered back
here safely.
(beat)
Now you know that Antipus will do
everything in his power to keep us
out of danger.
(beat)
For he holds each one of your lives
sacred, as do I.
CUT TO:
45 INT. LAMANITE MEETING ROOM, ANTIPARAH -- LATER 45
Captain Tamal and ZARIN sit at a large table, consuming a
beastly feast. Both eat like savages, frankly both are
savages.
They are accompanied by several equally dreadful men, who
surround a great table in a large tent.
All the men are laughing at what seems to be a sick reference
to another man at the table.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(gruffly)
Silence!
(beat)
Although Janarius is unfit to lead
the armies of the Lamanites, I believe
the Zoramite's would find him a asset
to there movement.
JANARIUS is a portly fellow, quite able to make any other
man at this table take back their words. But he is too timid
to do so.
CAPTIAN ZERIN
If in fact they could get him to do
anything besides eat their food.
All of the men at the table belly laugh at the comments. It
is clear that each man respects the other only out of shear
blasphemy.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.64
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
45 CONTINUED: 45
A scrawny old man enters the tent via the entrance. He
timidly passes behind the three men sitting on that side of
the table. As he passes, MANARIUS throws a half gnawed
chicken bone at him. Hitting the old man in the head. While
many of the men laugh.
Immediately Captain tamal reacts to the situation, as all
the men quickly quiet themselves.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(Fire in his voice)
Manarius! Leave my presence at once!
Manarius is enraged by the events, but also terrified at the
possibilities, and slithers out of the tent.
The old man gets up, pulls the chicken out of his mangy
hair and walks over to Captain tamal.
Captain tamal has some genuine care for this elderly man, or
does he?
CAPTIAN TAMAL (CONT'D)
Are you alright my friend?
ELDERLY MAN
(head low, quite voice)
Yes master
(beat)
I bring word from your spies near
Judea.
Captain tamal looks surprised
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(looking around table)
Judea?
(beat)
What word have you?
ELDERLY MAN
The spies bring word that Antipus
sends supplies to a city by the north
shores.
Captain tamal thinks about the opportunities
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.65
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
45 CONTINUED: (2) 45
CAPTIAN TAMAL
That will bring them near Antiparah,
will it not?
ELDERLY MAN
It seems as though they are going to
pass by Antiparah at first mornings
light
CAPTIAN TAMAL
And what have they to protect these
supplies?
ELDERLY MAN
Two thousand boys armed for battle
Captain tamal find great amusement in the mere possibilities.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
(laughing)
Boys?
(beat)
Is Antipus toying with us?
(beat)
Does he think our armies so incapable?
Captain tamal thinks for a moment then a stroke of brilliance
CAPTIAN TAMAL (CONT'D)
If Antipus's supplies are in such
great volume, Then let us take what
he does not want.
(To Captain Zarin)
You will take those supplies tomorrow,
and destroy the small army of
children.
ANGLE ON
The evil Captain Zerin, with a devilish look of gratitude
CAPTIAN ZERIN
I will spare none, save it be by *
accident
CUT TO:
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.66
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
45 CONTINUED: (3) 45
46 EXT. HIGHWAY NEAR ANTIPARAH -- MORNING 46
Antipus and his Captains are sitting around an early morning
campfire, none of them speak, but all look exhausted.
From the background a man appears and hurries to Antipus's
side.
ANTIPUS'S SPY
(quietly,a whisper)
The Lamanites are gone, they must
have left before sunrise.
Antipus's face turns pale with fear. He may already be too
late, and he knows it.
ANTIPUS
Ready the men! We must catch them,
if it's not already too late.
CUT TO:
47 EXT. HIGHWAY NEAR ANTIPARAH -- DAY 47
The quiet highway runs a ways off from Antiparah, but none
the less the great city towers in the background.
LOW ANGLE ACROSS THE GROUND
Shows how quiet the area can be UNTIL thousands of pairs of
feet stampede past.
CUT TO:
48 EXT. HIGHWAY NEAR ANTIPARAH -- CONTINUOUS 48
Helaman and Gid are on the opposite side of the road watching
the boys flee from the Lamanites. Helaman is paying much
more attention to the boys than Gid, and is singling out
certain ones as they run past.
HELAMAN
(yelling and motioning)
Jarius! Come here
(beat)
Abrim, Here!
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.67
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
48 CONTINUED: 48
Each of the boys make there way over to Helaman and Gid.
Once Teomner, Abrim, Jarius, Timothy and Tyrus are with
Helaman and Gid, Helaman addresses the boys.
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
(yelling)
We will take up the rear,
(beat)
So if the Lamanites do catch us, we
will have to turn and fight
(beat)
This may give the rest of the boys
time to escape.
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
(to Gid)
You are in charge here,
(beat)
I will be riding back and forth, so
watch for my signals
Most of Helaman's sons have now past, so Gid and the rest
join in the rear. All of them disappear into the wilderness,
save Helaman who stops at the edge of the opening of the
entrance into the wilderness.
Helaman watches for a few moments, then rides off into the
wilderness.
49 EXT. WILDERNESS HIGHWAY NEAR ANTIPARAH -- MOMENTS LATER 49
Helaman rides his horse through the wilderness, catching up
with the 2K Warriors.
CUT TO:
50 EXT. HIGHWAY NEAR ANTIPARAH -- MOMENTS LATER 50
Once again this area is quiet and peaceful. But like before
a rumble grows in the background to a deep rolling thunder.
ANGLE ON
The Lamanite's running through the area that Helaman and Gid
stood only minutes ago. The savage Lamanite men are in
pursuit of Helaman and his army.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.68
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
50 CONTINUED: 50
Captain Zarin sits high atop his giant midnight black horse,
he yells at the Lamanite Warriors
CAPTIAN ZERIN
Faster! We must catch them by sun
down.
Zarin, although stern with his men, smiles because he knows
they are within reach of Helaman's army.
Zarin watches the giant army run down the highway into the
wilderness. He continues to yell at the men as they pass
CAPTIAN ZERIN (CONT'D)
Catch them by sun down or none of
you will eat this night.
Zarin has the look of the devil in his eyes as he catches a
glimpse of something not right in his peripheral view.
Zarin immediately looks to his right in question, then sits
tall to get a better look back down the highway. His face
turns to shock, then anger.
CUT TO:
51 EXT. WILDERNESS HIGHWAY NEAR ANTIPARAH -- LATER 51
Helaman and his 2K sons wait with anticipation. None are
running, but just standing in an wooded area awaiting
Helaman's orders
CUT TO:
52 P.O.V. WILDERNESS HIGHWAY NEAR ANTIPARAH -- MOMENTS LATER 52
Helaman looks up into a tree, where Timothy stand perched,
looking back through the woods.
Timothy turns and looks down to Helaman
SW TIMOTHY
(yelling)
I still do not see anyone
CUT TO:
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.69
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
52 CONTINUED: 52
53 EXT. WILDERNESS HIGHWAY NEAR ANTIPARAH -- CONTINUOUS 53
Helaman looks out over his young sons, then looks down at
Gid. Helaman thinks for a moment then addressed the boys
HELAMAN
We have stood here idle for much
time, and still the Lamanites have
not fallen upon us.
(beat)
We know not why they have halted,
unless it is for the purpose that we
might come against them.
(beat)
Therefore, what say ye my sons, will
ye go against them to battle?
GID
(yelling)
Father, our God is with us, and he
will not suffer that we should fall;
we would not slay our brethren if
they would let us alone, therefore
let us go defend our liberty and the
covenants of our fathers.
Teomner steps up and delivers an equally powerful message to
Helaman and his peers.
TEOMNER
Our mothers have always taught us,
that if we do not doubt, God will
deliver us;
(beat)
We are not here because of our desire
to shed blood, but our desire to
live in peace.
(beat)
None of us have ever fought with
weapons such as these, yet we do not
fear death, because we know that no
matter what happens here today, we
are doing what is right. For this
our mothers taught us, and we do not
doubt our mothers.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.70
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
53 CONTINUED: 53
All of the boys cheer, because they agree and will follow
Teomner.
Helaman is proud of his young sons and knows that now is the
time to move.
HELAMAN
Then let us go and defend our liberty.
Helaman pulls out a giant sword and raises it above his head.
ANGLE ON
the warriors who also hold their weapons above their head,
and are yelling
STRIPLING WARRIORS GROUP 25
Yeah....
CUT TO:
54 EXT. HIGHWAY NEAR ANTIPARAH -- MOMENTS LATER 54
A great battle has ensued between Antipus's army and the
Lamanites.
ANGLE CUTS MULTIPLE TIME
to show a montage of different parts of the battle scene.
Both Lamanites and Nephites fall to the sword.
ANGLE ON
Antipus, who is fighting intensely from the top of his horse.
Although the two armies are about the same size, the Lamanites
seem to be doing better.
Antipus slays several men before he becomes completely
outnumbered. Several men attack him at once, pulling him
off of his horse and slaying him.
Many of the Nephites become confused, and without leadership
begin to retreat. And the ones that don't are being killed
easily. It's not long before many of the Nephites are being
chased by Lamanites.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.71
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
54 CONTINUED: 54
ANGLE ON
Helaman and his Two Thousand that enter the battlefield from
behind the Lamanites. All stand there in amazement of the
number of dead people. But Helaman realizes that they must
act quickly in order to make any difference
HELAMAN
(to his sons)
Attack!!
The 2K run onto the battlefield and cut through the Lamanites
like butter.
ANGLE CUTS MULTIPLE TIMES
to show a montage of the 2K fighting like warriors. With
the power of God on their side, they are invincible. Although
several get cut or bruised. Non is seriously injured.
It is only a minute before the 2K have cut the Lamanite army
in half. And by this time the Nephite army has returned to
help the 2K.
The scene wraps up as the last of the Lamanites surrender to
the 2K and the Nephites, because they are surrounded.
CUT TO:
55 EXT. WILDERNESS HIGHWAY NEAR ANTIPARAH -- LATER 55
Helaman sits on a fallen tree away from the immediate battle
field. He stares off into nowhere, as he awaits the word on
casualties.
It is only a moment before Gid comes over to bring him word
ANGLE ON
Gid who has just walked up to Helaman
GID
Father?
(beat)
All of the men have been accounted
for.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.72
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
55 CONTINUED: 55
Helaman slowly looks up at Gid, it is obvious that he doesn't
want to hear the news.
HELAMAN
How many souls?
GID
Most of the Lamanite Army,
(hurt)
There are only a few hundred men
left
(beat)
Half of the Nephite army was killed,
including Antipus and all of his
captains
Helaman looks at the ground, he doesn't want to have to ask
the question
HELAMAN
(quietly)
How many of my sons have died this
day?
A moment passes then
ANGLE PULLS OUT
GID
None
Helaman looks up, tears fill his eyes
HELAMAN
What?
GID
None Father,
(beat)
Most have been injured, but none
have died.
Helaman can hardly move, he is filled with immense joy. A
moment passes while we feel the joy.
CUT TO:
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.73
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
55 CONTINUED: (2) 55
56 INT. LAMANITE MEETING ROOM, ANTIPARAH -- CONTINUOUS 56
Captain tamal again sits around this large table with several
of the same men. However, this time no food is being
consumed. This is a formal meeting.
The men are being addressed by Tamal's Chief councilman
CAPTIAN TAMAL'S CHIEF COUNCILMNAN
The Nephites have already killed or
taken prisoner most of the men that
defended Antiparah. If they attack
us we will fall to them.
CAPTIAN TAMAL
How soon can we get men here from
Manti?
CAPTIAN TAMAL'S CHIEF COUNCILMNAN
Ammoron already sent all the men
from Manti to help fortify !!!
Tamal is furious, and would do virtually anything else before
giving the City of Antiparah back to the Nephites. But he
has run out of options. Tamal stands up
CAPTIAN TAMAL
Then send out word, we abandon the
City of Antiparah in two days light.
He then storms out of the tent.
CUT TO:
57 EXT. OPEN FIELD INSIDE JUDEA -- DAY 57
Gid and Teomner are practicing the use of the bow and arrow.
ANGLE ON
Gid as he draws the arrow back and lines up and then releases
ANGLE ON
A Target mad of Straw, as the arrow slices directly into the
area painted with red dye.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.74
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
57 CONTINUED: 57
ANGLE ON
Gid who loads another arrow, then draws it back
FOCUS BACK
To show Teomner also in full draw. Both concentrate as some
commotion takes place in the background. Both release.
FOCUS ON
An army that comes through the gate into Judea. 6K men enter
Judea
ANGLE ON
Gid and Teomner as they place their weapons down and walk
over to where Helaman stands to greet the men.
GID
More reinforcements?
HELAMAN
I received word at first light that
they would be coming,
(beat)
This brings our numbers up to nearly
Ten Thousand
Gid smiles at Helaman in amazement, then looks out over the
men.
It is only a moment or two before Gid's face becomes
perplexed.
GID
Haran?
(beat)
LURAM?
Gid turns to Helaman
GID (CONT'D)
Did you know about this?
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.75
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
57 CONTINUED: (2) 57
HELAMAN
It seems as though Sixty more of
your young Ammonite brothers have
come to join us.
Gid looks at Teomner and both run out to greet their brothers.
ANGEL ON
Haran, the young boy who was unable to join his brothers the
first time around, because he was unable to lift anyone around
him. Who now stands much taller and stronger than before
HARAN
Gid! Teomner!
The boys embrace for a moment, then Gid has so many questions
GID
How is Mama and Sariah?
(beat)
How is Isabel?
(Excitedly)
How is everybody?
HARAN
Everyone is well, we each bring
messages from home, but there was no
room to carry them, so each one of
us remembered a few of them.
(beat)
Gid and Teomner, I have messages for
you.
GID
Tell us! I don't think we can wait
any longer.
Haran smiles at Gid then looks over his shoulder at Helaman,
who stands behind Gid.
HELAMAN
Let's settle these men and get them
food first. There will be plenty of
time for catching up latter.
ANGEL PULLS BACK
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.76
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
57 CONTINUED: (3) 57
To show the disappointment on Gid and Teomner's faces.
GID
Come on let us find a place for you
to settle for the night.
CUT TO:
58 EXT. CAMP FIRE, JUDEA -- NIGHT 58
Teomner, Haran, Abrim, Jarius, Timothy, Tyrus and PATHROS
all sit around a large campfire, eating their dinner and
talking.
Being that Gid is the Captain, he is the last one to get his
food. Gid now joins the circle of friends around the fire.
Everyone seems to be looking at Gid, and must know something
he doesn't.
Gid looks around the circle.
GID
Is there something I should know?
TEOMNER
Actually, Is there something you
forgot to tell me?
GID
I can't think of anything
SW JARIUS
I'm surprised he could of forgotten
All of the boys burst into laughter, while Gid looks at them
as if they are crazy
GID
You might as well tell me, before I
put you all to work
TEOMNER
(sarcastically)
Okay Papa.
Again all of the boys burst into laughter
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.77
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
58 CONTINUED: 58
GID
Last chance
SW TYRUS
He just told you
GID
Told me what?
Gid looks at Haran, he has got to be the one behind this.
GID (CONT'D)
What's going on
HARAN
Well, I kind of told them about home,
and what happened after you left
Gid is a little worried, so he gets a little angry
GID
What happened?
HARAN
Nothing bad! It's just Isabel
GID
What about Isabel? Is she okay?
HARAN
Yeah she's fine, we were just laughing
about how she's always chasing after
little Gid.
Gid takes a step back, he hasn't quite made the connection
yet.
GID
Little Gid?
Then it clicks
GID (CONT'D)
My little Gid?
He looks at Teomner, who is nodding
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.78
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
58 CONTINUED: (2) 58
GID (CONT'D)
I'm a Papa?
(beat)
I'm a Papa!!!!
Gid is filled with emotions, and can't even speak. He sits
down as his eyes fill with tears.
Teomner slides over and puts his arm around Gid
TEOMNER
Congratulation
Gid looks at Teomner and they embrace
CUT TO:
59 INT. SMALL BRIDGE, JUDEA -- NIGHT 59
Gid is walking alone in Judea, probably just thinking about
home. Gid stops on a small bridge that spans across an
equally small stream.
Gid looks into the sky at the full moon that hangs over head.
A few moment pass before
HELAMAN
Gid my son,
Startled, Gid immediately looks over at Helaman.
GID
Father, you startled me
Helaman smiles and joins Gid on the bridge.
HELAMAN
It is late, why are you not sleeping?
GID
I could not sleep,
(beat)
I often find myself here, It reminds
me of home.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.79
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
59 CONTINUED: 59
HELAMAN
Yes, It does look somewhat like Melek
here.
A moment passes, as both stare off into the night
GID
Father?
HELAMAN
(looking at Gid)
Yes?
GID
When will we return home?
Helaman does not have the answer, and would like to be home
just as much as Gid.
HELAMAN
When our work here is done, when the
Lamanites no longer inhabit the
Nephite Lands.
GID
I miss my family
(beat)
I miss my wife
(tears fill his eyes)
I miss my son
Helaman takes the opportunity to be a Father to Gid
HELAMAN
It is not easy being away from home
(beat)
I miss my wife and children too, but
like you once told me, they are the
reason we are here.
GID
And I know that no matter how long
we are gone, God will deliver us
back safely,
(beat)
I just hope it is soon.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.80
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
59 CONTINUED: (2) 59
HELAMAN
(smiling)
Well like tomorrow, it will arrive
much sooner if you go get some rest.
Helaman places his hand on Gid's shoulder
GID
Good-Night
HELAMAN
Good-Night my son.
Gid walks off the bridge and back towards his tent.
Helaman watches Gid leave then stares off into space.
CUT TO:
60 INT. GID'S TENT, JUDEA -- MORNING 60
Gid and Teomner are sleeping fast upon the ground inside
their tent.
Gid and Teomner are awakened by Helaman, who pokes his head
inside the tent
HELAMAN
GID! Be in the tent of Antipus before
your first meal
ANGLE ON
Gid who wipes the sleep from his eyes, and looks at the
opening of his tent, where Helaman no longer stands.
TEOMNER
Mama, I don't want to get up
Gid looks over at Teomner with a look of question. Then
proceeds to get up
CUT TO:
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.81
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
60 CONTINUED: 60
61 INT. STRATEGIC TENT OF ANTIPUS, JUDEA -- LATER 61
Helaman stands at the head of the large map table, studying
the figurines and symbols on the map. One of Antipus's
captain's, CAPTAIN JACOB, is listening to Helaman talk
HELAMAN
(pointing)
Antiparah, Cumeni, and Manti are the
only city's left for us to control.
(beat)
If we gain control of these three
cities, the Nephites will have control
of all of the Lands of Zarahemla.
ANGEL ON
Gid who enters the tent, and walks over to the opposite end
that Helaman stands on.
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
Chief Captain Gid!
Gid looks a little stunned
GID
Chief Captain?
HELAMAN
(laughing)
Don't sound so surprised, you have
stood at the head of my young army
for some time now, It's only fitting
that you stand beside me now.
Gid stands there in amazement, this was the last thing he
expected to happen.
GID
I will not disappoint you Father
HELAMAN
(solemnly)
I know.
Helaman focuses back on the map.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.82
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
61 CONTINUED: 61
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
Now as we were discussing, our spies
have informed us that the Lamanites
have all but abandoned the City of
Antiparah.
(beat)
While the city of Cumeni has taken
on more people than it can sustain
for any amount of time.
(beat)
That means they will be needing
supplies very soon.
(beat)
Now if we can stop those supplies
from arriving, I believe the Lamanites
will be forced to fight.
Helaman thinks for a moment.
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
Gid, you will lead half of the son's
of Ammon along with half of the men
of Antipus down to Antiparah
(beat)
Once there you will secure it and
then come join me in Cumeni,
(pointing to Jacob)
Leaving Captain Jacob and all of
Antipus's men there to begin
fortifying it.
(beat)
By the time you arrive we should
have already cut off their supplies
and be awaiting their move.
Helaman looks at Gid for any questions
GID
When do we leave?
HELAMAN
(smiling)
At first mornings light
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.83
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
61 CONTINUED: (2) 61
Gid gives Helaman a half nod and turns and walks out of the
tent.
CUT TO:
62 INT. GID'S TENT, JUDEA -- LATER 62
Gid and Teomner are talking.
TEOMNER
(surprised)
CHIEF CAPTAIN?
Humbly Gid shrugs his shoulders
TEOMNER (CONT'D)
Do you get a horse?
GID
I don't know,
(beat)
I think so, every other Chief Captain
does.
TEOMNER
You're just lucky I turned it down
GID
Turned what down?
TEOMNER
The Chief Captain position
GID
Oh yeah, you were worried about the
horses huh?
Teomner looks at Gid with a worried look, knowing full well
that was reason enough to never want to be a chief captain.
GID (CONT'D)
(standing up)
Come on, let's go.
CUT TO:
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.84
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
62 CONTINUED: 62
63 EXT. OPEN FIELD INSIDE JUDEA -- MORNING 63
2K Warriors and 6K of Antipus's men are lined up inside the
walls of Judea.
ANGLE ON
Gid and Helaman who sit high atop their own horses.
HELAMAN
We will be marching together this
day and camping together this first
night. Come first light we will
separate and head in the direction
of our own destinations.
(beat)
But I would like you to lead this
day, I will take up the rear
Gid looks confident eager to take on his new position.
GID
Yes, Father!
HELAMAN
Then let us be gone
Gid gives Helaman a half nod. Then swings his horse around
and faces his men.
GID
Let us march this day with pride in
our Liberties.
Gid looks down at Teomner who now walks beside him.
GID (CONT'D)
Ready?
Teomner look like a giddy school boy on the first day of
school.
TEOMNER
Yeah, I think so.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.85
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
63 CONTINUED: 63
GID
(w/o hesitation)
Half-March
A moment passes, Gid looks down at Teomner
TEOMNER
Oh,
(yelling)
Half-March
The entire army marches out of Judea at Half-March.
CUT TO:
64 EXT. HIGHWAY NEAR ANTIPARAH -- DAY 64
Gid leads his men to the city of Antiparah, which is the
towering city, just in front of them.
NARRATOR
The first time I took command of an
army, I was ordered to take a city,
the city that once held the largest
Lamanite Army every to be assembled.
CUT TO:
65 EXT. CITY GATES OF ANTIPARAH -- LATER 65
Gid and his army enter the abandoned city of Antiparah.
NARRATOR
But when we arrived, it had been
abandoned, except for a few wild
animals that had moved in
(beat)
So as ordered I left Captain Jacob
and his men to fortify the City of
Antiparah, and I took my men to
Cumeni, to meet Helaman.
CUT TO:
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.86
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
65 CONTINUED: 65
66 EXT. LAND NEAR CUMENI -- NIGHT 66
Gid leads his men in the dark, down a highway lighted only
by the moon.
NARRATOR
We traveled for eight days before
reaching the Lands of Cumeni.
(beat)
Normally we did not travel in the
dark, but we knew that it was
senseless for us to camp for the
night when we had to be very near
Helaman's camp.
Gid and his men continue down the dark highway, when out of
nowhere hundreds of men surround them.
ANGLE ON
Helaman who walks through the line of men that stand in front
of Gid. Helaman steps out of the shadows, into a beam of
moonlight, which lights up his face.
GID
Helaman!
Gid jumps down off his horse, Helaman strains to see Gid's
face.
HELAMAN
Gid?
Helaman looks at the other boys
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
What are you doing traveling at night?
GID
We though it senseless to camp when
we knew your camp was so close.
Helaman is a little upset
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.87
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
66 CONTINUED: 66
HELAMAN
You passed our camp shortly after
Sun down. If Jarius hadn't spotted
you, you would have run into the
front gates of Cumeni before first
light.
TEOMNER
That wouldn't have been good
HELAMAN
Not considering they probably would
have attacked you for your supplies.
(beat)
We have seized two shipments of their
supplies since we have been here.
So they are getting pretty desperate.
(beat)
Now let us go before we attract any
attention.
Helaman lead the armies back to his camp.
CUT TO:
67 EXT. HELAMAN'S CAMP, CUMENI -- MORNING 67
Helaman and Gid sit on a few boulders talking. The early
morning fog has yet to lift. The only background sound is a
bird somewhere in the jungle yelling.
HELAMAN
Our spies have told us that they are
growing weary, and will attack us
before this day is over.
Gid looks out over the camp of tents. Only a few tents are
visible because of the fog.
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
Gid!
Gid looks at Helaman who is staring off into another direction
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.88
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
67 CONTINUED: 67
ANGLE ON
Ten unarmed Lamanites who are walking unnoticed, up to this
point, into Helaman's Camp.
Helaman and Gid stand to greet them
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
Welcome
LAMANITE MESSENGER #1
We are looking for the Leader of
this army
HELAMAN
That is I
Another Lamanite steps forward to speak to Helaman
LAMANITE MESSENGER #2
We have come to ask that you let us
leave the city Cumeni and go to our
homelands unharmed
HELAMAN
Will you covenant never to take up
arms against the Nephite people again?
LAMANITE MESSENGER #1
No! But we will let you have this
city without war.
Helaman doesn't hesitate to answer
HELAMAN
(Angrily)
If it is war you choose to avoid,
then lay down your weapon and
surrender this city and all its people
to me.
The Lamanite Messenger Becomes very angry. Without so much
as a word, the Messenger and his men retreat back to the
city of Cumeni.
Gid and Helaman watch the men and they disappear into the
fog.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.89
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
67 CONTINUED: (2) 67
GID
What do you think will happen?
HELAMAN
I don't know, but we must assume
they are prepared to fight.
(beat)
So let us greet them.
CUT TO:
68 EXT. OUTSIDE THE CITY WALLS OF CUMENI -- LATER 68
Helaman and Gid ride into the small valley that sits outside
the entrance to Cumeni. Behind them comes the large army
which they lead.
Slowly the valley fills with the Nephite Army. A minute
goes by as the last of the army enters.
ANGLE ON
Helaman and Gid atop their horses and at the head of their
army
GID
How long do you think we will be
sitting here?
Helaman is staring at the Gated Entrance
HELAMAN
Not long
Gid looks where Helaman is staring
ANGLE ON
The Entrance to the City of Cumeni, where we see the great
entrance opening. Once the gate is fully opened, two men
come walking out towards Helaman and Gid
ANGLE ON HELAMAN AND GID
who watch carefully.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.90
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
68 CONTINUED: 68
TEOMNER (O.S.)
Small Army
ANGEL BACK ON
The two Lamanite men who are now just in front of Helaman
and Gid.
LAMANITE MESSENGER #2
We ask that you not shed any blood
HELAMAN
Are you surrendering?
LAMANITE MESSENGER #2
If you will promise not to harm our
people, we will lay down our weapons
and give you this city.
HELAMAN
(pointing)
Have your men come out of the city
unarmed and line up against the city
wall
The Lamanite Messenger gives Helaman a half bow and returns
to the city.
GID
I had no idea this is what you meant
by greeting them
Helaman looks at Gid and Smiles
CUT TO:
69 INT. STRATEGIC TENT OF HELAMAN, CUMENI -- NIGHT 69
Helaman looks over the Table Map alone, He studies it with a
very pleased face.
ANGLE ON
Gid who enters the tent
GID
You wanted to see me?
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.91
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
69 CONTINUED: 69
HELAMAN
Yes Gid, please come in
Gid walks over to the table
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
How long have we been away from home?
This is a question Gid doesn't have to think about much
GID
Three harvests
Helaman thinks for a moment
HELAMAN
Are you ready to go home?
GID
(with anticipation)
YES!
Helaman thinks about the best way to approach the situation
HELAMAN
The Lamanite prisoners are growing
restless, it is taking everyone of
our men with swords to contain them,
and our provisions are not sufficient
for our own people, let alone our
prisoners
(beat)
We are faced with the decision of
putting them all to death, or taking
them, with sword in hand to the Land
of Zarahemla.
GID
Surely we will take them to Zarahemla,
(beat)
For we gave our word not to shed
their blood.
Helaman considers the problem at hand, but we know that he
already has made a decision
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.92
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
69 CONTINUED: (2) 69
HELAMAN
I received word from Moroni this
day, he has informed me that the
King-men have overthrown Pahoran,
and driven him and his supporters
from Zarahemla to the land of Gideon.
Gid takes in the news, his reaction is one of disbelief
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
Moroni knows that we will not get to
Zarahemla in time to help overthrow
the King-men, but I know that we can
arrive in time to help bring order
back to the city, once Pahoran has
been returned to the Judgment seat.
(beat)
That is why I have chosen to send
you to Zarahemla at the head of my
2k Son's
Helaman again ponders what more to say
HELAMAN (CONT'D)
I am also sending the Lamanites with
you.
(beat)
You will guard them by sword into
the land of Zarahemla, where Moroni
can decide what to do with them.
Gid looks down at the map then back up at Helaman,
GID
Will you send another two thousand
of your men with us?
(beat)
I feel that will make the difference
between success and failure.
Helaman smiles at Gid
HELAMAN
You pick the men and be ready to
leave by mornings light,
(beat)
That will be all
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.93
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
69 CONTINUED: (3) 69
Gid smiles as if surprised by the quick agreement then gives
a half nod and leaves the tent.
CUT TO:
70 EXT. HIGHWAY ON THE WAY TO ZARAHEMLA -- DAY 70
Gid sits high atop his horse, accompanying several thousand
Lamanite's to the land of Zarahemla.
The Lamanites are being guarded by 4K Nephites of which 2K
are the Son's of Helaman. The Nephite's surround the
Lamanites with four separate lines of men. Each line on the
outside of the last, creating an impenetrable line of defense.
Each Nephite carries a sword on their side and hold a spear
that is cradled in a waist support, causing thousands of
spears to point up to the heavens
Teomner walks next to Gid as his Chief Captain.
GID
(looking down at
Teomner)
This is really embarrassing ya know?
Without moving his head, Teomner looks up at Gid with a look
of disgust.
GID (CONT'D)
You know they're laughing at us?
Teomner holds back from saying anything he might regret later.
While Gid is enjoying dishing it out for once.
GID (CONT'D)
Maybe we ought to get you a mule, I
could just
Teomner jumps in mid sentence
NOTE: next two line are spoken simultaneously together.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.94
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
70 CONTINUED: 70
TEOMNER
(frustrated and angry,
NOT!)
Why don't you just drop it before I
share my favorite Lama Story with
everyone
GID
Tie it on right here and pull you
along...
Gid abruptly stops after Teomner makes his idle, but very
well aimed threat.
Now Gid is the one with the frustrated look on his face, and
Teomner has a satisfied smile.
They continue walking for a moment when
ANTIPUS'S SPY
(yelling from afar)
Nephite's!!
Gid looks around to see who might be yelling
ANTIPUS'S SPY (CONT'D)
Nephite's!!
(beat)
Nephite's!!
ANGLE ON
Antipus's Spy who is perched in a tree with two others men,
all of which are waving their arms, as to catch the attention
of Gid and his men.
ANGEL ON
Gid who now sees where the spies are perched, as does everyone
else in his company.
Gid looks down at Teomner.
GID
Those are spies from our army at
Judea.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.95
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
70 CONTINUED: (2) 70
TEOMNER
Why do you think they yell at us
now?
Gid shrugs his shoulders, this is a new experience for him.
Gid decides to stop the movement of his army, and find out
why the spies have given away themselves.
Gid raises his right hand high above his head
GID
(yelling)
HALT!
The giant army slowly comes to a stop.
GID (CONT'D)
(yelling)
Why does thou give away their
secretness?
ANGLE ON
ANTIPUS'S SPY
We have seen the armies of the
Lamanites marching towards Cumeni
this day.
(beat)
They will fall upon our people there
and destroy them!
ANGLE ON
Gid who's only concern at this point is Helaman and his men,
until he realizes that the Lamanites he is escorting are
becoming courageous, because of the news.
Gid turns his horse to face the men.
GID
Do not let this news give you courage,
for we will continue on to Zarahemla.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.96
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
70 CONTINUED: (3) 70
ANGLE ON
A group of Lamanite's who are convinced they can escape, and
are trying to rally support
LAMANITE PRISONER #1
If we make enough noise our other
army will hear us, and come to our
aid.
LAMANITE PRISONER #2
They can't hold us here!
LAMANITE PRISONER #1
Let us break these chains of bondage
Hundreds of the men are rallying with the few that have gained
courage.
This group of a few hundred, begin to push their way through
the other men, and in turn are pushing men out towards the
Nephite's that surround them.
ANGLE ON
Gid who is unsure of how to handle the situation at hand.
When he sees that they pushing their way through a small
part of the Nephite line he react quickly
GID
Lower your spears and hold steady,
do not let them cross your boundary
ANGLE ON
The Nephite's that are directly dealing with the Lamanites
being pushed towards them. The Nephites in the outer line
of defense lower their spears, while the others take a few
steps back then draw their spears, holding them out in front,
creating a single line of defense, like a giant razor blade
held out against the Lamanites.
The Lamanites are growing more and more courageous and pushing
harder and harder, while the Nephites's slowly move back, so
as to not slay any "innocent" Lamanites.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.97
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
70 CONTINUED: (4) 70
ANGLE ON
Gid who sees a bird's eye view of the mob and realizes that
if they allow the Lamanites to push any further, they risk
being pushed off of the highway and into the wilderness,
where they would loose total control of the prisoners.
Gid reacts quickly
GID (CONT'D)
Nephite's, hold strong! Do not allow
your lines to be pushed back any
further.
(beat)
Lamanites, Continue this no more!
Or your brethren will be slain by
your own hands.
Gid watches in confusion, as the Lamanites grow even more
courageous and push even harden than before.
ANGLE ON
The Nephite's who obey Gid's commands and hold strong
ANGLE ON
the courageous Lamanite's who are pushing and enticing others
to riot.
ANGLE ON
The Nephites who still hold strong, and watch the first
Lamanites as
ANGLE ON
the Lamanite's on the front line who are being pushed into
the spear of the Nephites. Their faces filled with terror,
and their struggle to push back, trying to avoid the
inevitable
ANGLE ON
The blades of the Nephite spear that penetrate the first few
Lamanites
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.98
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
70 CONTINUED: (5) 70
ANGEL ON
The unlucky Lamanite's who's faces tell the story. They
realize that their own people are causing their deaths.
ANGEL ON
One Nephite Who winces at the sight of a Lamanites demise.
ANGLE ON
On e Nephite who fights to keep himself from being pushed
back. He looks down to see why he has to struggle and
realizes his spear still rest in his waist harness, as does
everyone else, allowing them to use the entire weight of
their bodies to hold the spears.
ANGLE ON
the second row of Lamanites that are being pierced by spears
that have just exited the bodies of their brethren. As
before, we see the terror and demise as hundreds of men who
continue to be killed by the line of defense.
ANGEL ACROSS
The Line of Spears, we see a line of Nephite's on the Left
and all the Lamanites of the Right. The space between them
grows closer as the dead Lamanites are pushed closer to the
Nephites and more Lamanites are pierced by the spears.
ANGLE ON
Gid who watches in horror and begs the Lamanites to stop
GID (CONT'D)
(yelling)
Please seize your pushing
But the Lamanites only gain more courage at the attempts Gid
makes.
71 P.O.V. HIGHWAY ON THE WAY TO ZARAHEMLA -- CONTINUOUS 71
Gid watches a few of his men step back, letting go of their
spears, which are suspended in mid air. Several of the men
react in disbelief of the number of dead Lamanites.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.99
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
71 CONTINUED: 71
It's not long before the Lamanites start pushing forward
because of the resistance they are getting from the wall of
dead people
72 EXT. HIGHWAY ON THE WAY TO ZARAHEMLA -- CONTINUOUS 72
Gid realizes that the movement is headed towards him, and
knows he must act quickly before the Lamanites escape.
GID
(yelling)
Nephites! Reinforce the front!
Gid back his horse off and allows hundreds of his men to
gather in front of him.
GID (CONT'D)
Draw your spears and swords
By this time the Lamanites have begun to move much faster,
now that the resistance is less.
GID (CONT'D)
HOLD Steady! Do not let them
penetrate the boundary
It's almost as though all the Lamanites decided to charge at
once, because they come so fast, unlike only a few moments
before.
This time the Nephites are just protecting themselves from
the thousand or so Lamanite's charging them, and still over
half of the Lamanites are killed by running into spears and
swords. And the ones that are not killed, run at top speed
in every direction.
Some of the Nephite's chase after, but it quickly becomes
obvious that it is no longer worth the trouble.
Gid sits atop his horse in disbelief. He looks around and
sees only his men and dead Lamanites.
ANGLE ON
Gid who really lets the destruction sink in. He drops his
head down and covers his face with his right hand.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.100
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
72 CONTINUED: 72
TEOMNER
Gid!
(beat)
Gid! What about Cumeni?
Gid lets the thought of Cumeni penetrate the shock of the
current events.
Gid pulls the hand from his face and blankly looks at Teomner.
Then looks around again at the destruction.
He thinks again for a moment then confidently replies to
Teomner
GID
Gather all the weapons, we will need
them for battle
73 EXT. OUTSIDE THE CITY WALLS OF CUMENI -- DAY 73
A giant battle has ensued between Helaman's army and the
Lamanites. Several hundred men already lie dead on the
ground, while thousands more are still fighting.
The Lamanites overpower the Nephites by a margin of two
Lamanites for every one Nephite. Still, the Nephites fight
valiantly.
ANGLE ON
Helaman who is fighting with the strength of ten men. He
cuts through the Lamanite army like butter. However, it
doesn't seem to be enough to make much of a difference.
ANGLE CUTS MULTIPLE TIMES
to show a montage of both Lamanites and Nephites falling to
the sword, spear, and arrow.
A small group of about 25 men have all ended up near Helaman.
In the confusion, this is the first time Helaman has had a
chance to give any of his men orders.
HELAMAN'S CHIEF CAPTIAN
Where did all these men come from?
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.101
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
73 CONTINUED: 73
HELAMAN
I know not, but it must be every
last Lamanite in the land.
HELAMAN'S CHIEF CAPTIAN
What shall we do?
HELAMAN
(to 25 or so men)
Fall back to the gates of the city,
keep your backs guarded.
(beat)
We must not lose Cumeni this day!
All of the men run towards the city gates, and once there
begin to fight again.
ANGLE ON
Helaman who notices TAMAL perched atop his horse, slaying
Nephites easily. As we would expect, he has a sickening
grin as he works.
Helaman loses focus of Tamal, when he is attacked by several
Lamanites.
ANGLE PULLS OUT
to show the battlefield which is now obviously controlled by
the Lamanites. Most of the Nephites which still stand, are
retreating back towards the entrance to the city.
ANGLE ON
Tamal whose sword falls on a Nephite man, and a wicked smile
crosses his face.
Tamal surveys the battlefield for a moment. Then realizing
victory is only moments away screams
CAPTIAN TAMAL
Finish them!! Take this city!!
Just as Tamal finishes his order, he catches a glimpse of
Helaman. His face turns from rage to satisfaction, as he
dismounts his horse.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.102
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
73 CONTINUED: (2) 73
Tamal now focuses on Helaman alone. Nothing else gets in
his way, including his own men.
ANGLE ON
Helaman who is still fighting many Lamanites. As his sword
comes down on a man, he once again notices Tamal. Although
now he is walking directly towards him.
Helaman takes inventory of his situation and moves out of
direct battle with the other Lamanites. Leaving only twenty
or thirty paces between himself and Tamal.
As Tamal closes the gap, Helaman focuses himself
74 P.O.V. OUTSIDE THE CITY WALLS OF CUMENI -- CONTINUOUS 74
Helaman watches Tamal move briskly towards him. Suddenly a
Lamanite jumps in front of Helaman, like a small child playing
a game. However, before Helaman can react, Tamal slays the
man from behind, leaving only feet between himself and
Helaman.
75 EXT. OUTSIDE THE CITY WALLS OF CUMENI -- CONTINUOUS 75
ANGLE ON
Helaman and Tamal as a great sword fight ensues. Both are
masters of the crude blade.
Both seem equally trained in the skill, however Tamal seems
to have the edge today.
ANGLE ON
Gid who enter the battlefield, leading his small army of six
thousand.
76 P.O.V. OUTSIDE THE CITY WALLS OF CUMENI -- CONTINUOUS 76
Gid sees the destruction that has taken place this day,
thousands of bodies lie on the ground, and thousands more
are fighting near the city gates.
Gid notices Helaman fighting, and watches only for a moment
before ordering his men to attack.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.103
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
76 CONTINUED: 76
77 EXT. OUTSIDE THE CITY WALLS OF CUMENI -- CONTINUOUS 77
Gid surveys the situation and then gives his orders
GID
Those who are accurate with spears,
arrows, or the sling, step forward
and ready to release on my command.
About a third of the men step forward and prepare to fire.
Although we focus primarily on Teomner.
GID (CONT'D)
Release!
ANGLE ON
thousands of projectiles flying through the air
ANGLE ON LAMANITE'S
who are responsible for stopping the movement of the
projectiles, and fall dead to the ground.
ANGLE BACK ON
Gid as his attention suddenly focuses on Helaman. He watches
for a moment then his face turns pale.
78 P.O.V. OUTSIDE ISHMAEL CITY WALLS -- CONTINUOUS 78
Gid recalls the events of his child hood and sees the man
most directly responsible for his fathers death, TAMAL
ANGEL ON
Tamal who towers above young Gid yelling at his men.
79 EXT. OUTSIDE THE CITY WALLS OF CUMENI -- MOMENTS LATER 79
Teomner is yelling at Gid, who is stunned by the current
events.
TEOMNER
Gid!
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.104
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
79 CONTINUED: 79
Gid snaps out of the past memory and focuses on Teomner and
then looks at his men who are awaiting his orders.
GID
Attack!
ANGLE ON
Gid's men who don't think twice as they run across the
battlefield, and eventually collide with the Lamanites on
the opposite end.
ANGLE ON
Gid who watches Helaman and Tamal continue to battle. It is
obvious many feelings are surfacing for Gid.
Gid grabs the bow which hangs from his back and grabs an
arrow from the quiver on his horse.
Gid loads the bow and draws it back
ANGLE ON
close up of the profile of Gid's face, where we see the
struggle he is having.
ANGLE BACK ON
Helaman who still fights valiantly against Tamal, who is
bigger and stronger than he. Just when Helaman thinks he
has Tamal. Tamal parries an attack and in one clean motion
slices Helaman across the chest.
Tamal follows through, committed on finishing the job. Except
he is unable to, due to the fact that an arrow has entered
his heart and stopped it from functioning properly.
Tamal looks at Helaman with rage, then falls to his knees,
then topples over dead.
ANGLE ON
Gid as he jumps from his horse and comes to the aid of
Helaman.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.105
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
79 CONTINUED: (2) 79
Gid drops to Helaman's side expecting the worst, but finding
Helaman only stunned by the blow.
GID (CONT'D)
Are you alright?
Helaman looks down at his chest and finds his chest plate
completely severed in half.
Helaman looks over at Tamal, who lies dead on the ground.
Then focuses his attention to the rest of the Nephite army
who stand guard over a few hundred Lamanite's, who have
dropped their weapons.
Gid helps Helaman up and they survey the situation.
ANGLE
Helaman and Gid as they walk through the battlefield. We
find that virtually every man has severe wounds, but none of
the son's of the Ammonite's are dead.
GID (V.O.) (CONT'D)
Three and a half years after we left
our homeland of Melek, the last battle
was fought to secure this part of
the lands of the Nephites.
(beat)
Although we took the city of Manti
by stratagem a few months later, the
battle at Cumeni still feels the
most real to me at this time,
(beat)
Maybe it was because I finally had
closure after so many years, or maybe
is was just because I knew that we
would soon be returning home.
80 EXT. OPEN PLAINS OUTSIDE MELEK CITY -- EVENING 80
Helaman and his 2060 Stripling Warriors walk across the open
plains outside Melek. They look tired, but all carry smiles.
ANGLE ON
Gid and Teomner who walk side by side towards the city
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.106
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
80 CONTINUED: 80
GID (V.O.)
But either way, I return home this
day with the total joy of knowing
that the rest of my life lay before
me.
ANGLE ON
Isabel who holds Young Gid in her arms. At first her face
is filled with anticipation, but as soon as she sees
ANGLE ON
Gid walking towards her
ANGLE BACK ON
Isabel who break down into tears of joy.
ANGLE BACK ON
Gid who's face lights up after seeing Isabel for the first
time in almost four years.
Places his hand on Teomner's shoulder then runs to Isabel
and Young Gid, embracing them both.
Gid pulls back and looks Isabel in the eyes, then grabs his
son and twirls him around.
GID (V.O.) (CONT'D)
It was never a sacrifice to leave
home, for I never doubted that I
would return. But I often wonder
why it had to happen, why it is that
people do not trust in God, and have
faith?
ANGLE ON TEOMNER
who smiles at the sight of Gid and Isabel. Then Teomner
looks around at all of the other boys whose families are
there to greet them, and he just watches them embrace.
It is obvious that Teomner is looking for anyone he may know,
and might be waiting for him. He looks around and it is
only a moment before he sees
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J. Daniel Nell pg.107
Copyright '99 & '00 Envision Entertainment & J.D.N.
80 CONTINUED: (2) 80
ANGLE ON SARIAH
standing in front of him holding a beautiful wild flower.
Her eye's filled with love and joy at the sight of Teomner.
ANGLE PULLS BACK
to show the two of them face to face, Teomner only lets a
moment pass by before he leans over and kisses her. Which
at first surprises her, but after a moment, her eyes close
and she falls into the moment.
As Teomner pulls back
TEOMNER
Marry me!
SARIAH
(joyfully, with tears)
Anything for thee.
ANGLE ON
Helaman who stands in the background watching his son's who
have grown to be men. This angle shows the sun setting behind
him now.
GID (V.O.)
In the 30th year of the Reign of
Judges, our people once again found
peace, as all of the son's of Helaman
returned home,
(beat)
2060 son's of the People of Ammon
went to fight for liberty, and 2060
returned home.
(beat)
Not one was lost, because of the
faith we had in God,
(beat)
the Faith that our mother taught us.