ACT ONE
FADE IN:
1 EXT. AUSTRALIAN WILDERNESS (1970 AD) -- DAY
Black & White Flashback
- ESTABLISHING -
Typical Australian Outback. A beautiful wooded area covered
in natural flora and fauna. The area has a medium sized,
slow moving river running peacefully through it.
In a clearing near the river we find ISABELLA, a 6 year old
girl with long blond pigtails, playing with well worn Raggedy
Ann & Andy Dolls.
MOTHER (O.S.)
(strong australian
accent)
Isabella, stay away from the water.
Isabella's MOTHER, is an attractive young women about 28
years old. Because she is making sandwiches at a picnic
table about 30 feet away, she doesn't keep close attention
on Isabella.
Also near by we see YOUNG STEVE, a 10 year old boy, and his
FATHER throwing a frisbee back and forth next to a white
pickup truck.
As the family happily spends an autumn day out in nature, it
seems as if nothing could ruin it.
UNTIL.....
As Isabella continues to frolic around the river banks, she
plays out a story of tragedy with Raggedy Ann being stuck.
ISABELLA
(australian accent)
Andy, Andy help me, help me....
(moving Andy into
position)
I'll save you Raggedy Ann.
As Isabella's game goes on, we hear the CHIRP of something
inside of the bush that catches her attention.
Pausing from her game, she momentarily looks down. Seeing
nothing of interest she continues.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 2.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
ISABELLA (CONT'D)
Hurry Raggedy, I'm falling
Again Isabella's attention is caught by the CHIRP that comes
from under the bush.
This time Isabella gets down on her hands and knees and looks
under the bush.
ISABELLA (CONT'D)
Oh, hi there,
(beat)
Come on, it's okay, I'm just trying
to save Raggedy Ann, she was caught
in this tree.
As she talks, the small creature begins to show itself,
venturing out into the open a small snout can now be seen,
then slowly the rest of the baby Crocodile comes into view.
ISABELLA (CONT'D)
You sure are cute, did you come to
help Raggedy Ann?
MOTHER (O.S.)
Isabella, Lunch is ready..
Isabella turns for a moment to look at her Mother.
ISABELLA
Mom Mom, a little lizard came to
help Raggedy Ann.
ANGLE ON
The Mother looks up with a questioning look, maybe even a
little worried.
MOTHER
Isabella, come away from the river
now!
Isabella's Father recognizes the tension in the Mother's
voice and turns to see Isabella crouched down at the waters
edge.
Just then another baby Crocodile appears from under the bush.
Happily surprised Isabella cried with laughter.
ISABELLA
Look Mom mom, there is another one,
they've all come to help..
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 3.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
FATHER
(sternly)
Isabella, come away from the water
now!
Startled Isabella turns to see the terror in her parents
eyes. Jumping up, she takes a few steps then turns and
reaches down to grab Ann, she doesn't even have time to
realize what happens.
In a split second, a 13' female Crocodile leaps from the
water, snapping it's powerful jaws around Isabella's fragile
body, instantly crushing her to death.
ANGLE ON
Steve, who can only watch as his parents scream in terror as
they run towards the Croc that drags their daughter down
into the murky depths of the river.
Acting on the same maternal instinct as the Croc that took
her daughter, the MOTHER runs into the knee deep water and
begins to slam her fist into the side of the Croc's head.
MOTHER
(screaming)
Let go, let go of my baby!
Immediately the Father jumps into the water, grabbing hold
of his little girl who is still in the jaws of the Croc.
Trying to keep her head above water, the struggle is futile.
The giant croc just continues to move back, sinking deeper
and deeper, taking their little girl with them.
As the battle is slowly lost, and the parents are now chest
deep in muddy water, another pair of eyes can be seen poking
up out of the water only a few yards away.
In shock and ill-equipped to handle the situation, the Mother
begins to scream at the other Croc.
MOTHER (CONT'D)
Give me my Baby back!
(beat)
You monsters! I want my Baby!
Realizing that the Croc is very slowly moving towards them,
the Father begins to back out of the water.
But the Mother doesn't back down.
MOTHER (CONT'D)
How could you take my baby away from
me!
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 4.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Grabbing her arm, he tries to pull her back, but she pulls
away and begins slapping the water, holding her ground.
MOTHER (CONT'D)
Come On, you monster! Come on!
ANGLE ON
Steve who stands there in terror. The though of loosing his
sister hasn't sunk in, but he know his Mother could also be
grabbed and taken under.
YOUNG STEVE
(australian accent)
MOMMY! GET OUT OF THE WATER!
BACK TO SCENE
Hearing that voice, like the swift crack of a whip, she
realizes that there is more to live for and she begins to
back out of the water.
FATHER
Take my hand!
Reaching out, she grabs for his hand, but is still a few
feet away. She looks back over her right shoulder to check
on the Croc which is still closing on her. But when she
turns back towards the shore she sees the terror in the
Fathers eyes which are now entranced on something over her
left shoulder.
FATHER (CONT'D)
(looking into her
eyes)
Grab my hand.
P.O.V - Father
Looking into her eyes, he holds his hand out. With one final
thrust forward, their hands lock together. As a smile of
relief begins to form on her face, it is almost immediately
taken away by terror. Then suddenly she is ripped away and
flung 7 to 10 feet back into the water as she is pulled down
under without so much as a sound.
BACK TO SCENE
Where the Father stands in total shock. He just stares at
the ripples in the water where his wife stood just moments
ago.
For a moment he forgets about the other crocodile which is
still moving towards him. But it only takes a moment for his
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 5.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
"fight or flight" instinct to kick in. He immediately looks
over to see the second croc still moving slowly towards him.
P.O.V - Father
from this angle he can see a large white diamond patch on
the croc's snout, and it is obvious this croc is much larger
than the other two females that took his daughter and wife.
As he watches, the croc continues to move towards him.
ANGEL ON
Steve who stands there, stone cold, with frisbee in hand.
His entire body shakes as he goes into shock.
BACK TO MASTER ANGLE
Steve's Father slowly back's up as the giant 22' Saltie rises
up over the bank of the river and begins walking towards
him. Looking over his shoulder:
FATHER (CONT'D)
Steve get inside the truck.
But Steve doesn't move, he doesn't even acknowledge his
Father.
FATHER (CONT'D)
Stevo, move your tail!
With Steve still not moving, he assesses the situation and
makes a split second decision.
Turning around he bolts towards Steve, who is now about 15
feet away. Reaching Steve, he doesn't even slow down as he
grabs him and throws him over his shoulder.
Reaching the truck he throws Steve into the back and then
tries himself to jump in.
P.O.V - Steve
As his Father throws his left leg over into the pickup bed,
his face turns to horror as he is yanked back out. Grabbing
a bright red blanket in a last ditch attempt to hold onto
something, he and the blanket disappear out over the side of
the truck.
ANGLE ON
Steve as he lays in shock in the bed of the truck.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 6.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Only screaming can be heard as....
DISSOLVE TO:
2 EXT. AIRPORT RUNWAY -- DAY
Transition from Black & White to Color.
Only a mirage of heat vapors can be seen as the SCREAM from
a moment ago is drowned out by the screeching of the rubber
wheels of a small plane landing on the runway.
CUT TO:
3 INT. 22 PASSENGER AIRPLANE -- MOMENTS LATER
This 22 passenger plane has over 35 passengers sitting or
standing in every conceivable area. All but two of the
passengers are native Africans and several people have live
animals which the passengers just carry on their laps.
As the plane comes to a stop, we notice JANE DOE, a well
dressed 28 year old american woman, who looks less than
pleased in here current circumstances.
She holds a single solid leather backpack in her lap, and
like her clothing, it too looks very expensive. Just like
"Sue Charlton" right out of Crocodile Dundee, from the hat
down to the shoes.
Although she has plenty of room, she is obviously very put
out by the situation on the plane.
PILOT
(in swahili)
Welcome to Aswan.
As the door to the plane opens, all of the people begin to
file out.
As Jane waits for the elderly woman who is sitting next to
her and holds a chicken, to get up, she is taken by total
surprise when the lady says something to her in Swahili and
drops the chicken in her lap.
ELDERLY WOMAN ON PLANE
(in Swahili)
Take my bird while I get up!
JANE
No, No, I don't want your chicken.
PLEASE!
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 7.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
JANE (CONT'D)
(beat, holding the
chicken away from
her body)
sigh,
Jane politely tries to keep from taking the chicken, but
with no avail, she is stuck with the chicken until the elderly
woman has gotten up and into the crowded isle of the plane.
At which time the elderly lady grabs the chicken by the throat
and yanks in out of Jane's hand, and walks off the plane.
CUT TO:
4 EXT. ASWAN INTL. AIRPORT -- MOMENTS LATER
- ESTABLISHING -
The small 22 passenger plane sits alone in front of a
terminal. The airport is everything you would expect it to
look like, right down to the crowd waiting to greet the
passengers.
As Jane appears at the door of the plane, she has her
Serrengetti sunglasses ready and waiting. As she places
them on, she scans the crowd. With her backpack over her
shoulder she begins to traverse the stairs.
When she reaches the bottom of the stairs she finds a nice
young Native African man holding a sign "JANE DOE". The man
is dressed in a kaki uniform with "African Reserve"
embroidered over the left pocket.
Although there is no other person that could be mistaken for
her, he still stands patiently waiting for her to make herself
known.
JANE
I'm Jane Doe.
The young man smiles.
DRIVER
(strong swahili accent)
Please come with me.
The Driver leads her to an open air jeep which sits only a
half a minutes walk away.
JANE
(looking back at the
terminal)
Don't we need to go through customs?
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 8.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
DRIVER
Do you have any fruit in your bag?
JANE
No?
DRIVER
Then I think it will be okay.
Jane looks dumbfounded at the young man. Then glances again
over her shoulder.
As they reach the jeep, they both climb in. Jane places her
backpack onto the rear seat.
JANE
How far away is the Reserve from
here?
DRIVER
The Reserve is about a two hour drive
from here.
With that the Young man starts up the jeep, pushes a tape
into the tape player and drives off.
BEGIN SOUND TRACK - BORN TO BE WILD
Jane just looks over at the Driver who sings along with the
music.
AERIAL VIEW
We follow the Jeep away from the airport, though the city,
out into the openness of Africa. We see herds of animals
running out in the openness around the road.
ANGLE ON
Jane who has been sleeping, now is awake and looking at her
watch.
END SOUND TRACK
JANE
Shouldn't we be there by now?
The Driver is as happy as ever,
DRIVER
(with another big
smile)
No, we have about three hours to go.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 9.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Jane's face shows exactly how he is feeling about this news.
JANE
Three hours? You said the reserve
was only two hours away, and we have
been driving for at least that long.
DRIVER
(big smile)
Yes that is true, but we are not
going to the reserve.
JANE
What do you mean were not going to
the reserve? I am suppose to meet
with Steve ????? this afternoon at
the African reserve.
DRIVER
I am sorry, I was given specific
instructions to take you to the Aswan
High Damn.
She is becoming increasingly more angry.
JANE
What is at the Aswan Damn?
DRIVER
Steve should still be there.
JANE
Should?
DRIVER
(no worries)
I am sure he will be there.
The Driver gives her another big smile to put her at ease,
or maybe because he is just really happy...
DRIVER (CONT'D)
(smiling)
Let me play you some really good
American music.
BEGIN SOUND TRACK - BORN TO BE WILD
Meanwhile Jane is at her wits end. She just folds her arms
and glares straight ahead.
AERIAL VIEW
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 10.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
The Jeep continues down the dirt road towards Aswan High
Damn.
CUT TO:
5 EXT. ASWAN HIGH DAMN -- LATER
- ESTABLISHING -
At the bottom of the Damn we find 12 people from the African
Reserve working on catching a 11 foot female Nile Croc named
Sally.
Currently the team has the Croc top jawed and is working on
bringing her to a place where they can safely secure her.
However, Sally isn't about to make this easy. With all of
the rocks and debris near the shore, they are taking extra
care not to get her to close. While every time they are
close enough to secure her, she death rolls towards unsafe
areas.
ANGEL ON
The Jeep, which carries Jane, pulling up next to several
other Specially designed jeeps and a helicopter.
Of course the song Born to be Wild can be heard blaring from
the vehicle.
Jane doesn't waist a moment before jumping out of the jeep
to get a better look. Watching from the ridge, she has a
great view of the capture.
ANGLE ON
the Croc team which has just made it's move. Steve is now
on top of Sally, holding her top jaw down, while the rest
of the team pile on behind Steve.
Now only the snout of Sally can be seen underneath the team.
Steve is now quickly working on securing her jaw closed and
placing a potato sack over her head.
Once Sally is secure, Steve gives the okay to move her.
With one fluid motion, the team picks up the 11 foot Croc
and walk her up to one of the specially designed jeeps.
As they approach, Jane steps back and allows them to walk
past. Because she is focused on Steve and his team, she
doesn't realize that she has back up against one of the other
specially designed croc cages.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 11.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Once the team has placed Sally into the back of the Jeep,
the door is closed and locked. Steve jumps up on top of
Sally's cage and addresses the crew.
STEVE
(strong australian
accent)
Well done!
STEVE'S TEAM
(all cheer)
STEVE
Now let's get these beauties to their
new home.
(beat)
Russ will take charge of the release,
and I'll see you all in a few days.
With that Steve jumps down off the cage and land directly in
front of Jane.
Hearing the news that Steve is leaving, Jane doesn't hesitate
to initiate a conversation.
JANE
(holding out her hand)
Steve ????? , I'm Jane Doe, I was
told I would have a couple hours of
your time this afternoon, is there
someplace we can go to talk.
Steve smiles at her, reaches out and shakes her hand.
STEVE
(as friendly as could
be)
I would love to stand around and
chat, but I have a plane to catch.
Steve begins to walk towards the helicopter.
JANE
Wait just a minute!
(beat)
I was promised 2 hours of your time
this afternoon. And I expect African
Reserve to keep their word.
Nothing could dampen his day.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 12.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
STEVE
Well then, how bout you go back to
the reserve with Russ, he can show
you around until I get back, then
you can have all the time you would
like.
JANE
(very frustrated)
And when will that be?
STEVE
Three maybe four days at the most.
JANE
You have got to be kidding me? I
have a plane to catch in 14 hours.
STEVE
I am sorry,
(smile)
maybe next time then.
Steve turns to walk away,
JANE
This is ridiculous, your a joke.
Steve looks back.
STEVE
Excuse me?
JANE
Your a joke, your whole operation is
a joke.
STEVE
How's that Mate?
Jane is furious and is going to strike back the only way she
knows how.
JANE
I've been calling you for three weeks,
you never returned my calls,
(beat)
I'm promised you will meet with me,
and now you won't,
(beat)
Then I watch you wrangle a 10 foot
crocodile, and it takes 12 people to
do it.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 13.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
JANE (CONT'D)
(beat)
Your a joke!
Oh yeah, she had got him good, and now she feels somewhat in
control, where she think she belongs.
But Steve isn't in any way affected by her statements.
STEVE
(laughing)
I didn't need 12 people to get Sally,
I could have done it myself.
JANE
Oh really? Then why did you bring
12 people along?
Steve Points to the cage which she stands inches away from.
STEVE
For Jerry!
As Jane turns to look, SNAP!! Jerry's Giant jaw snaps shut
only inches from her. Jerry is a GIANT 18 foot Nile Croc
that is having a very bad day.
Out of shear fright, Jane jumps back and lets out a little
yelp.
Jane stares at the crocodile for a moment, stuck in her fear,
until she realizes that Steve and most of the other people
are laughing at her.
As she begins to compose herself, Steve turns away and heads
towards the helicopter.
Still somewhat frazzled, Jane just watches Steve take a bag
from one of the Jeeps and throw it into the helicopter. As
he climbs inside the secondary pilots seat and starts to
flip switches, She comes up with a plan. If he won't stay
and give her the time promised, than she is going to tag
along and corner him in a place he can't run.
Now that Jane has composed herself and come up with a new
plan, she doesn't hesitate to walk over to the Jeep she
arrived in and grabs her backpack from the rear seat.
Throwing the backpack over her shoulder she walks over to
the helicopter and climbs in.
JANE
(yelling into Steve's
ear)
We can talk on the way!
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 14.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Steve just smiles and gives her a thumbs up sign.
Jane sits back and puts on a seat belt, as the Chopper takes
off. Jane just looks out the window as they go.
CUT TO:
6 INT. HELICOPTER OVER AFRICA -- MOMENTS LATER
The helicopter is now at cruising altitude. Below, the
beautiful country extends as far at the eyes can see.
Jane now looks over at Steve. Seeing that now is her chance,
she leans forward and begins confront him.
JANE
(tapping him on the
shoulder, yelling)
Can we talk now?
Steve turns around, and it is obvious he can't hear her over
the noise.
STEVE
(pointing to his ears)
What? Speak up I can't hear you
JANE
Can we talk now?
Steve just shakes his head and points to his ears
STEVE
(mouthing)
I can't hear you.
Then Steve just smiles and turns around.
Jane is furious, "is he kidding"?, is all she can think.
Jane leans forwards again as if to tap him on the shoulder,
but knows when to quit.
As Jane stews in her frustration, she leans forward again,
extends her arm as if to tap him on the shoulder, then
retracts it. As upset as she is, she realizes that she has
lost this battle. But she will not loose the war!
With that Jane sits back and looks out the window at the
beautiful scenery below.
Jane is mesmerized by the scenery as her eyes dart around,
looking at all of the things to see.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 15.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
ANGLE ON
Steve who glances over his shoulder and looks at Jane,
watching her for a moment, he smiles as if approving of her
being here.
CUT TO:
7 EXT. HELICOPTER OVER AFRICA -- CONTINUOUS
Exterior view of the Helicopter, we see Jane looking out,
and a better view of the African Continent below.
We watch as the chopper begins it's decent and disappears
out of camera view.
CUT TO:
8 EXT. AIRPORT/BUS STATION - DUNQUALAH, AFRICA -- LATER
- ESTABLISHING -
A very small rural airport, or more accurately, a small shack
next to runway. Many people are in the direct vicinity, but
it is unclear what they are doing there. Most of the people
stand under the overhang of the small building, catching
what little shade it has to offer. Directly next to the
shack is a very old fuel tanker.
Not to far off, MAC, a forty something native african, leans
against a 1984 Cessna 4 passenger aircraft awaiting the
helicopters arrival. Mac is dressed in the stereo typical
khaki "Bush guide outfit", right down to the hat atop his
head.
ANGLE ON
the helicopter as it slowly floats to the ground. Softly
landing in front of the airplane. It immediately begins to
shut down, although the propellers take a while to stop.
As Mac covers his eyes and holds on tightly to his hat, he
walks over to the helicopter and greets Steve. As Steve
jumps down front the helicopter, he is obviously very happy
to see his friend.
As the two friend embrace, Jane opens the side door and climbs
out.
MAC
(strong swahili accent)
Welcome my friend.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 16.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
STEVE
Glad to see you Mate.
Noticing Jane:
MAC
Should I make room for your friend?
Jane doesn't even let Steve answer. She is determined to
corner him now!
JANE
That won't be necessary thank you,
We'll only be a minute, then I'm
going to be returning with the
helicopter.
Mac acknowledges Jane and then simply raises his eyebrows to
Steve as if to say, "Well then".
MAC
I'll be loading the plane then.
Steve laughs.
STEVE
Awe c'mon Mate, you won't want to
miss this.
Mac just continues to walk towards the back of the helicopter,
he's not going to be a part of this. Meanwhile Jane tries
to figure out what exactly he meant by that statement.
JANE
Miss what?
STEVE
The helicopter isn't going back,
(beat, walking away
to help Mac)
It's heading to Khartoum, to pick up
some snakes.
As Steve walks away, she is left to stew in her own thoughts
for a moment. However, she will take control of the situation
and will not be drug around like some child.
Jane immediately goes after Steve. Running around the back
side of the helicopter to face him, stopping in front of his
she places her hand on his chest, stopping him dead in his
tracks.
(CONTINUED)
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Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 17.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
JANE
You know, I didn't think you could
possible be a bad as everyone made
you out to be.
(beat)
But I've never ever been subjected
to such rudeness and inconsideration
as I have the past 8 hours.
(beat)
I'm extremely sorry to waste your
time and will never forget the way
you've wasted mine, I thought maybe
you had a shred of kindness in your
body, but I guess I was wrong.
Like a light switch, Jane shifts from anger to control.
JANE (CONT'D)
If your not going to return me to
the airport in Aswan, then I'll just
have to get there myself.
(holding out her hand)
Thank you for,
(thinking for anything
nice to say)
the helicopter ride, it was nice.
With that she turns and walks towards the small shack a couple
hundred feet away.
STEVE
Where are you going?
JANE
(turning to Steve)
To find a ride back to Aswan.
(walking away)
STEVE
Where are you going to find a ride
around here?
JANE
(turning and walking
towards Steve as if
to make a point)
I don't know,
(beat)
But I'm sure someone around here
will give me the consideration that
you wouldn't and return me to Aswan.
Like always, Steve isn't even fazed by her remarks. He just
smiles as if she is his best friend and replies:
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 18.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
STEVE
Do you have a Visa for Sudan?
JANE
Of course not,
(beat, uneasy)
Why?
STEVE
Your going to have a heck of a time
getting out of Sudan without a VISA.
Jane frantically looks around.
JANE
We're in Sudan?
STEVE
Right'O,
(beat)
Dunqulah, Sudan right in the middle
of the Sahara Dessert.
Jane throws her bag on the ground and walks 10 or 15 feet
away, just trying to compose herself. Frantically she talks
to herself.
In a mumble we here:
JANE
What am I even doing here?
(beat)
What am I trying to accomplish?
(beat)
I should of listened to Dr. Grahame,
he warned me, but no I had to come
anyway.
Steve watches Jane, while Mac continues to take supplies
from the copter to the plane, their eyes meet and Mac can't
help but smile.
ANGLE ON
Mac and Steve, as Mac stops for a moment to talk to Steve.
JANE (O.S.) (CONT'D)
He brought me here, he should get me
out of here too.
MAC
What's wrong with her, is she okay
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 19.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
JANE (O.S.)
I'm his responsibility now.
STEVE
(smiling)
I don't know,
(beat)
but she is an american.
JANE (O.S.)
I'm his problem now!
Mac laughs has he continues to work.
ANGLE ON
Jane, who has now once again come to terms with her situation
and knows what must be done.
JANE (CONT'D)
Okay, you brought me here, now your
going to get me back.
(beat)
So what are we going to do now?
BACK TO SCENE
Steve, who is still smiling, looks over at Mac who has a
permagrin. Mac has just shut the cargo door to the plane
and is read to get going.
STEVE
(pointing)
You can wait in that shack for a few
days until we return,
(beat)
Or you can get on the plane
(more seriously)
and learn something about zoology
that you can't learn in a classroom.
With that Steve heads towards the plane.
ANGLE ON
Jane who is obviously insulted by the remark, but grabs her
backpack from the ground and heads towards the plane.
As all three of them climb aboard the plane we:
CUT TO:
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 20.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
9 INT. CESSNA EN ROUTE TO NAIROBI, KENYA -- LATER
- ESTABLISHING -
Mac and Steve are sitting in the front seats of this very
worn cessna airplane. At cruising altitude, Mac and Steve
carry on a conversation while Jane is asleep in the rear
seat, with her head laying on her back pack which sits against
the window behind Mac.
MAC
She seams to have some spirit?
STEVE
(laughing)
That she does Mate.
MAC
Why is she here?
STEVE
She's with the International
Management of Wildlife,
(beat)
They want me to help them re-locate
some Saltie's near Brisbane.
MAC
Aren't they the people who drove you
out of Australia?
STEVE
(shaking his head)
Yeah Mate.
MAC
She's going to be sorry she came
isn't she?
Steve smiles, as does Mac when their eyes meet and he sees
Steve's reaction.
Both just sit quietly at Steve pears out the window.
STEVE
There is the airport.
CUT TO:
10 EXT. NAIROBI, KENYA AIRPORT -- MOMENTS LATER
- ESTABLISHING -
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 21.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
A medium sized airport, full of busy people. Many commercial
airliners are parked alongside the terminal. Near the main
terminal is a football field size parking lot for private
planes.
It is here that we next find the Cessna, pulling into a
"parking stall".
P.O.V - looking out the front of the Cessna.
STEVE (O.S.)
Rise and shine Mate!
The Cessna drives down an isle of planes, turning into an
empty stall. As the plane turns we see a very clean, newer
outback vehicle, with covered rear.
Leaning against the vehicle we find a very YOUNG NATIVE
AFRICAN man, waiting patiently.
BACK TO SCENE
As the plane stops, the young man opens the cargo door and
begins moving the contents to the rear of the outback vehicle.
Steve and Mac immediately jump out of the plane and assist
the young man to throw all of the equipment from the plane
into the vehicle.
As Steve returns back to the plane to get another load of
equipment, he slaps his hand on the window where Jane still
sleeps. Startled, Jane jumps up, a little distraught she
looks around, realizing that they are now again on the ground.
As the three men continue to move the equipment from one
vehicle to the other, Jane climbs out of the plane. Still
trying to fully wake up, she notices Mac carrying a high
powered rifle to the outback vehicle.
Jane can't help but be concerned about the very large gun.
As she continues walking towards the outback vehicle, Mac is
saying goodbye to the young man, while Steve closes the cargo
door to the cessna.
MAC
Now get yourself back home quickly,
there is a lot to be done before I
return.
The young man simply smiles a giant grin and shakes his head.
STEVE
(holding out his hand)
See ya in a few days Mate.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 22.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Steve walks up to the young man and shakes his hand, then
the young man runs off towards the terminals.
Steve and Mac return to the outback vehicle and climb in.
Steve sits in the passengers seat of the vehicle looking
over at Jane who stands in front of the plane, with backpack
in hand.
STEVE (CONT'D)
You're not going to stand there all
day are ya?
Jane doesn't answer, she just stares at Steve. It is unclear
what is wrong. Maybe it was the gun, or maybe she is still
trying to wake up?
This is the first time we see the soft side of Jane, she has
let her guard down. She in not trying to be the STRONG, IN
CONTROL woman.
STEVE (CONT'D)
Well, come'on, we've got along way
to go before sundown.
Jane hesitantly walks over and climbs in the rear seat of
the Outback vehicle. Once she is inside the vehicle, Mac
starts it up and they drive off towards the west, where the
sun slowly falls out of the sky.
As they drive off, Steve leans back in his seat, pulls his
hat down over his eyes, and takes a nap.
Meanwhile, Jane sits in the back seat, arms folded in deep
thought. As she looks around, she notices Mac looking at
her in the rear view mirror.
Mac just smiles at her, and in return she smiles back. Again
this is only the second time we've seen the softer side of
Jane.
CUT TO:
11 EXT. OPEN PLAINS OF KENYA -- EVENING
- ESTABLISHING -
The Outback vehicle flies along a not so well traveled dirt
road towards the setting sun. The absolute beauty of the
land surrounds.
As the vehicle reaches a grove of trees, they pull off the
dirt road and stop.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 23.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Inside the vehicle, Jane and Steve are asleep. As Mac turns
off the vehicle, he nudges Steve to wake up, then climbs out
of the vehicle:
STEVE
Where are we?
MAC
About a half day from the Rift Valley,
we'll make camp here tonight.
Mac climbs out and walks around the back.
Steve sits up and stretches, letting out a big sigh, he places
his hat back on his head and looks back at Jane, who still
sits motionless.
Steve just stares at Jane, who lays peacefully. Looking
away, Steve looks around for a moment then climbs out and
joins Mac at the back of the vehicle.
12 EXT. CAMP, OPEN PLAINS OF KENYA -- NIGHT
- ESTABLISHING -
It is now very dark on the savanna, however the full moon
provides enough light to work by.
Steve and Mac are setting up camp. A 5 man tent has already
been erected and they are now working on erecting a smaller
tent nearby.
MAC
She is very beautiful.
Steve doesn't even pause what he is doing, he knew it was
coming.
STEVE
Yeah Mate, that she is.
MAC
Are you going to help them?
STEVE
(shaking his head, NO)
Even if I wanted too, I can't go
back. She should know that.
Mac just nods his head as they continue to set up the tent.
MAC
So why did she come?
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 24.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
It is obvious that Steve has thought about that exact
question.
STEVE
(very suspicious)
That's what I intend to find out.
In the distance a pack of GOLDEN BACKED JACKAL can be heard
barking.
STEVE (CONT'D)
(smiling)
Dinner!
Steve quits what he is doing and grabs the high powered rifle
from a pile of equipment in the camp. Then proceeds to grab
a couple of extra bullets from bag on the ground.
ANGLE ON
Jane who now appears from the vehicle. She is still trying
to wake up.
ANGLE ON
Steve, who looks over at Jane, then places the extra bullets
in a pocket.
STEVE (CONT'D)
(to Mac)
Build a fire Mate, I'll be back soon.
With that, Steve picks up a large gunny sack and disappears
into the bush.
BACK TO SCENE
Jane watches as Steve disappears.
JANE
Where is he going?
MAC
Dinner, are you hungry?
Jane doesn't even hear Mac's question, she has realized that
Steve is going hunting.
JANE
Is it legal to hunt in this area?
ANGLE ON
Mac who begins to build a fire in the middle of camp.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 25.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
MAC
Of course not, Where in a national
park here.
Mac takes his eyes off of Jane for a moment to tend to the
camp fire he is building. When he looks up, Jane is gone.
MAC (CONT'D)
Miss Jane?
(looking around)
Miss Jane?
Mac looks off towards the direction Steve went.
MAC (CONT'D)
Miss Jane, Come back,
(beat)
It isn't safe out there alone.
Mac just stares into the darkness.
CUT TO:
13 EXT. OPEN PLAINS OF KENYA -- MOMENTS LATER
- ESTABLISHING -
Jane is walking alone through the dark bush. She looks behind
her as she hears Mac yelling out to her.
MAC (O.S.)
Miss Jane!
But it doesn't deter her, she just keeps walking.
Jane is very perceptive, we see that she is looking down at
the ground as she goes. She is following Steve's footprints.
As she continues to walk and time goes on, it seems to get
darker and darker and we hear more and more wildlife. It is
obvious that she is becoming a little nervous.
Then suddenly, she notices Steve just up ahead. She even
seems a little relieved to see Steve. Until, she notices
that he is crouched behind an old log, with gun in hand.
The gun is resting upon the log as Steve stares down the
site.
Jane immediately looks to see what Steve is going to kill.
Off in the distance she sees the bright green reflection of
a Golden Backed Jackal eyes, staring right at her and Steve.
Then from out of nowhere, CRACK, the echo of a gun shot
rumbles through her body. Immediately a yelp is heard as the
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 26.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Jackal's entire body spins around, then the Jackal run's
off.
Then from out of nowhere, several more Jackal's appear from
the deep grass. Poking there heads up, some flee, while
other just look at Steve and Jane.
ANGLE ON
Steve, who operates the bolt action rifle, causing an empty
casing to eject from the gun and land only a few feet in
front of Jane.
Without hesitation, Steve aims and fires another shot into
the pack of Jackal's. Again, a yelp is heard and several of
the Jackal's flee.
Steve fires several more shots, each one causing an animal
to cry out, before he grabs the gunny sack and heads towards
the place where the Jackal's stood only moments before.
ANGLE ON
Jane who has just witnessed the most gruesome thing of her
entire life. Pale as a ghost, Jane leans over and picks up
the shells that lye on the ground in front of her. She
doesn't even look at the casings, she just places them in
her pocket and stumbles back towards camp.
14 EXT. CAMP, OPEN PLAINS OF KENYA -- MOMENTS LATER
- ESTABLISHING -
The camp is now completely set up. The campfire is blazing,
old logs and rocks have been pulled up around the campfire
for places to sit.
ANGLE ON
Jane who is still not looking to good, stumbles into the
camp. Looking around, Jane just stands there until Mac comes
out of the large ten.
Mac doesn't notice Jane at first, but when he does, he
realizes that there is something wrong.
MAC
Miss Jane, are you alright?
Jane simply looks over at Mac without a reply.
Mac hurries over to her. Looking her over he sees nothing
physically wrong.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 27.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
MAC (CONT'D)
What happened?
Jane looks down at her hand, which is closed.
Mac also looks down, placing his hand over hers, he opens it
up revealing four empty casings.
Mac is confused, he is not sure what this means.
MAC (CONT'D)
(leading her)
Come sit down.
Sitting down, Jane just stares into the fire.
MAC (CONT'D)
(placing his hand on
her shoulder)
I have some work left to do, will
you be okay here?
Jane softly looks at Mac then half heartedly nods her head.
Concerned, Mac smiles at her then returns to what he was
doing.
ANGLE ON
Jane who stares into the fire, as a small tear runs out of
the corner of her eye and down her right cheek. It is obvious
that this day has been mentally and emotionally draining to
her.
A moment goes by before Steve comes walking into camp. Jane
quickly wipes the tear from her cheek before Steve notices.
ANGLE ON
Steve who stands there with the gun over his left shoulder
and the bloody gunny sack hanging near the ground in his
left hand.
STEVE
Hope you guys are hungry.
Jane just glares up at Steve. But Steve doesn't know why
she would be so upset at him.
STEVE (CONT'D)
What?
Just then Mac appears from the large ten again, standing
there curiously looking at Steve and Jane.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 28.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
JANE
(disgusted)
How many Jackal's did you manage to
steal from the savanna tonight?
Steve is really confused. He looks to Mac for some help,
but Mac just shrugs his shoulders.
Then, from out of nowhere, the bullet casing land on the
ground in front of Steve.
Seeing the casings, Steve looks over at Jane.
JANE (CONT'D)
(motioning to the
gunny sack)
How many Jackal's did you manage to
steal from the savanna tonight?
ANGLE ON
Steve, who looks down at the bloody sack, then looks up at
Jane.
For the first time, Steve isn't smiling. In fact, he looks
very angry as he lashes out.
STEVE
You like Jackal meat?
JANE
(disgusted)
I've never eaten Jackal,
(beat)
nor will I ever eat it!
STEVE
Good!
Steve turns over the gunny sack and empties the bloody
Wildebeest remains on to the ground at Jane's feet. Then
drops the sack on the fire.
STEVE (CONT'D)
(to Jane)
If your hungry, Mac will cook this
up, otherwise burn it.
(turning towards the
large tent)
I'm going to sleep,
(beat)
we got a long way to go tomorrow,
we will be leaving early in the
morning
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 29.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Turning to Jane, Steve grabs a bullet from his pocket and
throws it to her. Jane catches the bullet and watches Steve
disappear into his tent.
As Jane looks at the bullet, Mac walks over and grabs the
hind quarter of the wildebeest and begins to cut off strips
of meat. He places each strip over a stick that is already
supported over the fire.
As Mac cuts the meat, he occasionally looks over at Jane.
ANGLE ON
Jane, who is intently looking at the bullet. As Jane examines
the bullet, she notices that the tip is odd looking. She
plays and pokes with the tip, then finally she places it in
her mouth and bites down.
JANE
(to herself)
It's rubber!
MAC
They won't kill ya, but they work
great for scaring off Lions,
(beat)
and the occasional Jackal.
Jane is now really confused. She knows she misjudged Steve
and from the looks of things, she hurt his feelings too.
Jane thinks for a moment, and takes the opportunity to speak
with Mac alone.
JANE
How long have you known him?
MAC
A very long time.
JANE
How did you meet?
Mac continues to cut up the meat as they talk.
MAC
(thinking for a moment)
When Steve first began working at
the African Reserve, he came here to
Nairobi to return an animal that had
been taken by poachers.
(beat)
Or paths met then.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 30.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Jane listens intently.
JANE
What kind of animal?
MAC
(taking a bite of
meat)
A crocodile.
Jane looks a little perplexed.
JANE
Really?
MAC
This is why we are here,
(beat)
to check on her.
(handing a piece of
meat to her)
Jane takes the meat, looking at it she pauses for a moment,
then hesitantly takes a bite.
JANE
What do you do, when not returning
crocodiles?
Jane smiles, she is starting to open up.
MAC
That is what I do,
(beat)
I help all animals of kenya, including
the crocodilian.
(beat)
Me and Steve.
Jane is a now starting to become interested in what Mac has
said, as she begins to get excited about the conversation.
MAC (CONT'D)
(standing up)
I think it time for rest,
(picking up a container
of water and pouring
it over the fire)
We have a very long day ahead of us.
(beat)
The small tent is for you.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 31.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
As the fire is slowly drowned out, Mac takes a stick and
spreads the hot coals around. Mac looks at Jane as if to
say, "goto bed now".
Jane quickly takes the hint.
JANE
(standing up)
Well, good-night then.
Jane disappears into the ten, as Mac pours the last bit of
water over the all but drowned fire.
CUT TO:
15 INT. JANE'S TENT -- MOMENTS LATER
- ESTABLISHING -
Jane has just closed the opening to her tent. The smaller
tent is still large enough for three or four people.
On the floor, a nice sleeping bag and very clean pillow lay
perfectly, while her backpack sits neatly in the corner.
Jane is pleasantly surprised to see her accommodations. As
she sits down on the sleeping bag, she takes off her shoes
and hat, then climbs into bed.
As Jane closes her eyes.
CUT TO:
16 EXT. OPEN PLAINS OF KENYA -- AFTERNOON
AERIAL SHOT
- ESTABLISHING -
ANGLE ON
the sun as it slowly rises on the horizon.
As the angle pulls back we see:
The Outback Vehicle driving through the open plains of Kenya.
Just barely in the first rays of the sun, the vehicle quickly
moves across the wild land.
As the angle moves down in front of the vehicle we see:
Mac, Steve and Jane sitting behind the windshield. Steve is
pointing out his window to beautiful spotted leopard high in
a tree, just resting on a thick branch.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 32.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
17 INT. OUTBACK VEHICLE -- CONTINUOUS
P.O.V
Steve, who is looking at the spotted leopard that looks at
them as they pass by.
ANGLE ON
Jane who is amazed at the wildlife they see. She is like
the kid in a candy store. Removing her small camera from
the backpack, she takes a picture of the cat.
Once the picture has been taken, she turns and sees that
Steve is watching her, with a big smile on his face.
A very nice, but somewhat uncomfortable moment passes as
they stare into each others eyes. After a moment, Jane
quickly turns away.
As she analyzes the moment that just occurred, it is obvious
that she is torn as what to think. She had a moment with
Steve, but everything else in the past 24 hours contradicts
what she is now feeling.
As Jane once again stares out the window, she again struggles
with her feelings, although this time she fights a smile
instead of supporting a scowl.
STEVE
Stop Mate! Stop the vehicle!
Jane and Mac are both looking at Steve for the reason they
have just stopped. As they sit in silence, Steve stares out
the front windshield of the vehicle, listening.
JANE
Why are we stopped?
Steve only holds up his hand, as if to say, "Be quiet".
Just as Jane is starting to cop-an-attitude,
CRACK!.....CRACK!!
Steve's head turns to face the sound,
STEVE
(looking at MAC)
Go Mate Go!
CUT TO:
18 EXT. OPEN PLAINS OF KENYA -- CONTINUOUS
- ESTABLISHING -
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 33.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
AERIAL View
The outback vehicle has just again begun to move. Veering
directly off the dirt road, the Outback vehicle heads off
into the open plains.
As the vehicle follows a straight path through the bush, it
slowly approaches a heard of stampeding ELEPHANTS.
ANGLE CUTS FROM EXT. TO INT.
Inside the vehicle Steve directs Mac as to where to go.
STEVE
(pointing)
Go around this way, we have to get
in front of them.
Mac simply follows Steve's directions.
As the vehicle pulls out and around the stampede, we see
another vehicle full of men, driving alongside a very large
male elephant. Each man holds a rifle, taking turns firing
at the great beast.
Mac doesn't hesitate to frantically honk the horn as they
follow.
It only takes a moment for someone in the poachers vehicle
to hear the horn, and like the cowards that they are, they
quickly flee. But not without firing a couple shoots at
their vehicle. Then the poachers vehicle disappears into
the bush.
STEVE (CONT'D)
Get up along side him Mate.
As Mac begins to accelerate up to the him, he stops, waivers
for a moment then falls to his knees.
Pulling up to the creature, they begin to see the devastation
the poachers caused. Full of bullet holes the beautiful
beast fights for his life. Without notice, Steve jumps out
of the Outback Vehicle which still hasn't stopped.
When the vehicle does stop, Mac and Jane climb out. Both
stand back and watch.
ANGLE ON
Steve who slowly and cautiously approached the elephant.
The closer he becomes, the louder the wheezing becomes.
When Steve is close enough to touch, the Elephant falls over
to it's side, giving up the fight and accepting his fate.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 34.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Steve now places his hand on the beasts forehead and slowly
strokes it. Looking over the giant creature, he sees the
number of bullets it took to take down.
Numerous bullets have pierced the hide in the head and neck
area, surprisingly though, there isn't much blood.
STEVE (CONT'D)
Look at what they've done to you.
(beat, screaming at
poacher)
You animals....
Then Steve's focus returns to the elephant.
STEVE (CONT'D)
Oh Mate, I'm so sorry, I'm so bloody
sorry.
Steve then looks into it's eye as it takes it's last breath
and quietly passes on.
Fighting the rage and sorrow, Steve places his hand over the
creatures eyelid and closes it.
Placing his whole body on the elephant, Steve weeps at the
lose. As he openly cries and shows his sadness,
ANGLE ON
Jane who also has tears running down her face. Wiping them
away, she tries to keep her composure.
BACK TO SCENE
As Steve rolls through many emotions, he begins to become
very angry.
STEVE (CONT'D)
(to Mac)
Get a can!
Mac nods to Steve and walks to the rear of the Outback vehicle
where he retrieves a 5 gallon (? liter) metal gas can.
Returning to the front with the gas can, he hands it to Steve
who immediately begins to pour it over the entire body of
the dead elephant.
When Steve is done, Mac lights an old rag on fire and throws
it on top of the creature. Causing it go up in flames.
All of them stand there in silence as carcass burns. Then,
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 35.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
STEVE (CONT'D)
There is nothing more we can do
Turning, Steve walks back to the Outback Vehicle.
As the smoke rises up into the clear blue sky, Jane notices
it passing between them and the sun, causing a reddish haze.
ANGLE ON
the smoke that flow's past the red/orange sun.
STEVE (O.S.) (CONT'D)
They'll be back to claim their prize
ANGLE ON
Steve who is removing gear from the outback vehicle.
STEVE (CONT'D)
(rifle in hand)
We will camp here tonight.
Mac immediately begins to help Steve as Jane watches in
disbelief.
AREAL VIEW
The smoke filled sky reflects the somber moment.
ANGLE ON
The blazing red sun as it slowly begins to touch the horizon
behind the smoke that drifts towards the heavens.
As the angle pulls down, we see Steve & Mac building camp,
while Jane stares at the burning carcass.
CUT TO:
19 EXT. OPEN PLAINS OF KENYA, ELEPHANT CAMP -- NIGHT
ANGLE ON
The flames of a burning fire dance around. As the camera
pulls back we begin to see this fire is not the burning
carcass, but is a camp fire.
MASTER ANGLE
- ESTABLISHING -
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 36.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Steve, Mac and Jane all site around a small campfire. The
tents are set up similarly to the night before. Mac is cooking
food, although it is unclear what they are eating.
As Mac serves up the food, Jane just watches Steve, who is
obviously still very upset at the events that have occurred.
A few moments pass as they begin to eat.
STEVE
Why are you here Jane Doe?
Jane almost sinks down, hesitant to even look at Steve. She
apprehensively looks up.
JANE
(as if to get out of
the question)
what?
STEVE
(head on approach)
Why are you here Jane Doe?
Jane pauses for a moment, gaining courage.
JANE
I came to ask for your help.
STEVE
(without emotion)
So your Grahame's star pupil?
Jane looks a little surprised at the statement.
JANE
No.
STEVE
From what I hear he plucked you right
out of school.
JANE
He saw my abilities to strengthen
his organization and asked me to
join his team.
STEVE
Do you enjoy working out here in the
field?
Jane becomes very uncomfortable with that question.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 37.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
JANE
(hesitantly)
I've never really done this kind of
thing before.
STEVE
Your a biologist and you've never
been camping?
JANE
(slightly raising her
voice)
I've been camping, I've just never
been camping in Africa.
STEVE
But you have studies animals in the
wilderness before, right?
It is obvious that Jane is completely uncomfortable.
JANE
I've studied many wild animals before.
STEVE
You mean you've studied wild animals
in cages.
(beat)
but you've never seen these beautiful
creatures where they belong.
Steve has hit a nerve.
JANE
(standing up)
I don't have to live with the animals
to save them.
(beat)
I was number one in my class and
have proven myself time and time
again.
(beat)
So if you think I need to go 2 months
without a bath to be a good biologist,
your wrong!
Steve reacts to Jane's anger with a bit of remorse. He knows
it's not her that has made him so upset.
STEVE
I'm sorry, please sit down.
Jane isn't sure what to do, but she sits down anyway.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 38.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Steve thinks for a moment, then tries to approach the
situation fairly.
STEVE (CONT'D)
(with much thought)
I don't understand why you are here,
Grahame wouldn't want you to come to
me for help,
(beat)
so, why are you here?
ANGLE ON
Jane who hesitantly gathers her thoughts and begins to tell
her story:
JANE
I've always known what I wanted to
do, so when I was 18 years old I
left home for college.
(beat)
Before I even graduated from Harvard,
Dr. Grahame approached me with a job
working for the International
Management of Wildlife.
(beat)
and he didn't have to ask twice
(beat)
I spent two years on a research team
before I was promoted to head up a
new project team in Australia.
(beat)
There we were assigned to oversee a
giant amusement park project.
(beat)
It required us to develop, plan and
build a 10 acre Flora & Fauna Park
inside the 35 acre Family Amusement
Park.
(beat)
I later found out that they had never
intended to build a flora & fauna
park, but had to do something with
the displaced fauna and the IMW came
up with this solution.
(beat)
Although originally they has suggested
moving all of the fauna to the IMW's
Substantial Use Farms, they soon met
resistance from Government and Private
agencies.
(beat)
that's when I took over.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 39.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
STEVE
You've got it all under control. So
why are you here?
JANE
Well, the Fauna Park has been complete
for 2 months, but we have run into
problems in moving a pod of croc's.
We've already had several me hurt
and can't afford to have anyone else
hurt or killed.
(beat)
Everyone I talked to suggested you,
that's why I'm here.
Steve smiles as if to say, "You've got to be kidding me".
STEVE
You've got to be kidding me, The IMW
doesn't want to look bad, so your
asking for my help?
JANE
Not exactly,
(beat)
The IMW doesn't know I'm here. They
think I'm on vacation.
(beat)
when I went to Grahame with the idea,
he was less than open to it.
STEVE
Yeah I can imagine.
(beat,thinking)
Do you even know why?
Jane pauses for a moment, she doesn't want to upset him yet
again.
JANE
I've heard the stories.
STEVE
Which ones?
JANE
(solemnly)
I heard that your family was killed
by saltie's,
(beat)
and that you spent 20 years poaching
them until the IMW stepped in
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 40.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
JANE (CONT'D)
(beat)
then you fled Australia because of
fears of prosecution.
Steve is very emotional. He takes a moment to respond
STEVE
When I was 10 years old, my Father
took our family into the outback.
We had never been, my Father was a
business man and we never did anything
together until that weekend.
(beat)
I was so happy, My Father and I were
throwing a frisbee, he'd never spent
that much time with me.
(beat)
My little sister was playing with
her dolls near the banks of a small
tributary. It happened so quick.
But everyone saw it but her.
(beat)
They both ran into the water, she
was dead, but my Mother tried to
pull her body from the croc mouth.
(beat)
I saw the second one, but the third
one came from nowhere,
(beat)
I tried to scream, but the words
barely left my mouth.
(beat)
she didn't see the third one, It
ripped her from my fathers grasp.
that's when the second one, the male
made it's move.
(beat)
I've never seen anything like it.
It just kept coming,
(beat)
Dad dad managed to throw me into the
back of the truck, but it pulled him
out before he could climb all the
way in.
Jane is moments from tears.
STEVE (CONT'D)
I didn't move for three days. It
was a ranger that found me.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 41.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
STEVE (CONT'D)
(beat)
When he took me out of the truck,
all I remember seeing was a red
blanket near the edge of the river
and my sisters doll lying next to
it.
(beat)
I vowed that day I would find that
nest of croc's and kill everyone of
them.
(beat)
As soon as I was old enough I left
my grandparents home and started
hunting them.
(beat)
for fifteen years I hunted, day in
and day out. I kept a record of all
the croc's I killed. Over 5500 in
all, but I never found the ones that
killed my family.
(beat)
I suspect that the ranger went back
and killed them. But I don't know
for sure.
Jane has tears running down her face.
JANE
I don't understand, how did you get
here?
STEVE
Unlike Grahame would have you believe,
It wasn't because I poached croc's
that he wanted me in jail.
(beat)
In 1989 I never found a croc over 12
foot, I had killed them all.
(beat)
It was sometime in 1990 I realized
that what I had done was wrong.
Three croc's had killed three people
to protect their young.
(beat, solemnly)
One man had killed thousands of
crocodilian to make the world a safer
place,
(beat)
But who was the one that needed to
be protected?
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 42.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
STEVE (CONT'D)
(beat)
I left the outback and went home. I
began fighting for the preservation
of the crocodilian.
(beat)
In 1994 I learned of the IMW's plan
to preserve the croc and many other
endangered species with Substantial
use farms.
(beat)
It was in my eyes the largest threat
to the species since I left the
outback.
JANE
So your against Substantial Use?
STEVE
Right'o, I don't believe harvesting
croc's for their skin is any different
from poaching them for their skin.
(beat)
of all the croc's I killed, I never
once made money off it. I was wrong,
Substantial use is sadistic.
Jane isn't sure what to think.
JANE
So you fought against Dr. Grahame?
STEVE
I was at every place he was, I fought
against everything he fought for.
(beat)
Then one day he showed up with
pictures and stories of my past. He
worked night and day to destroy my
life. So I left Australia and came
to Africa.
(beat)
And that is why I can never go back.
(beat)
Not even to help those crocodiles.
Jane obviously has something up her sleeve because she doesn't
seem to be upset about Steve's last statement, she even seems
a little excited.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 43.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
JANE
(upbeat)
Brisbane has been working to have
this park build for over a decade,
this is the last major hurtle they
have to overcome.
(beat)
Having this park means revenues. I
know this and they know this.
(beat)
That is why they agreed to drop all
charges against you, as long as you
agree to relocate the croc's by two
weeks from today.
Steve show's no emotions, he just sits blank faced.
JANE (CONT'D)
That means you can come and go as
you please.
(beat)
Doesn't that make you happy.
Jane can't understand why Steve wouldn't be showing some
emotion that vaguely resembles happiness.
STEVE
Even to know that I can go back to
my home country again, why would I
help the IMW to put fauna into a
substantial use farm?
(shaking his head)
Sorry I can't do that, I will not do
anything that supports such a immoral
thing.
Jane is dumbfounded!
JANE
I designed this park, It's not a
farm! Those animals will live in
their natural environment and not be
cut up to be made into boots!
Steve smiles wondering how she could be so naive.
STEVE
Of course the animals you relocate
will be left alone to live out their
natural life, as much as possible in
a park, but what about their
offspring?
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 44.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
STEVE (CONT'D)
(beat)
The park isn't large enough, nor
will it be able to house the natural
predator that would normally keep
the species in check.
(beat)
So you will have to intervene, remove
all of the eggs, incubate them, then
let them hatch. But what will happen
to the chicks?
(beat)
I'm sure you will place some of them
in areas they can call home, but how
many will end up 50 kilometers down
the road at the IMW Fauna Farms? Or
have you even given that any thought?
(beat)
Because I know Grahame has.
Jane is again dumbfounded, she doesn't know what to say, or
how to retort.
JANE
I don't know what to say.
(beat)
I didn't even think you cared what
happened to them let alone try and
protect them.
(shaking her head)
I'm just speechless......
Steve smiles, he knows that both were under misconceptions
of the other. But there is nothing he can do about it
tonight.
Steve reaches down and grabs a few paper towels off a roll
of paper towels that sit on the ground near him. Then he
stands up and walks over to the fire where he wipes his dinner
plate clean, throwing the dirty towels into the fire.
STEVE
We lost a half a days light today,
we'll be pushing it to get there by
tomorrow.
(looking at Jane)
Get some sleep, you'll need it
tomorrow.
As Steve places his clean plate down inside a wooden box:
JANE
Where are we going?
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 45.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
STEVE
(smiling)
I'll show you tomorrow.
Then Steve disappears into the tent. Leaving Jane to think
about the things he had said.
ANGLE ON
Jane who now stares into the fire, her eyes fixated on the
flames that dance around. Obviously pondering the situation
at hand. Dazed and confused at the new revelations.
CUT TO:
20 INT. JANE'S TENT -- MORNING
- ESTABLISHING -
Jane lyes asleep inside her tent. Her back is turned to the
camera as she begins to move around.
Rolling over onto her back, Jane suddenly sits up, eyes wide
open.
JANE
Do I smell eggs?
Then quickly Jane grabs for her clothes.
CUT TO:
21 EXT. OPEN PLAINS OF KENYA, ELEPHANT CAMP-- MOMENTS LATER
- ESTABLISHING -
Steve squats at the edge of the campfire stirring eggs in a
pan, while Mac carries supplies to the Outback vehicle.
Mac and Steve's tent has already been taken down, as has
every thing except Jane's tent.
Steve is focused on the job at hand, but the rustling from
Jane's tent catches his attention. Then suddenly Jane
appears, poking her head out.
JANE
Do I smell Eggs?
(beat)
I smell eggs.
Steve smiles, it is very obvious from this first communication
between Jane and Steve that the tension is gone, and the
atmosphere is much more chordal.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 46.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
STEVE
We had to cook these eggs up before
they spoiled, would you like some?
JANE
(ecstatic)
Would I!
Jane pops out of here tent like a gitty school girl.
Steve takes the pan and scoops a giant portion onto one of
the plates that sits on the ground near him.
STEVE
Help yourself.
As Steve finished dishing up the eggs, Jane doesn't hesitate
digging in.
STEVE (CONT'D)
We will be heading west the rest of
the day.
(beat)
use the dungy before we go, there
won't be any privacy once we leave
here.
It is clear by the look on Jane's face that she understands
what he is referring to, but was hoping it wouldn't come up.
STEVE (CONT'D)
You do know what a dungy is?
Jane shyly looks at Steve, uneager to reply.
JANE
I was hoping I could hold it until
we got back to civilization.
Steve realizes that she is totally serious,
STEVE
Well then, best of luck to ya.
CUT TO:
22 EXT. OPEN PLAINS OF KENYA -- LATER
- ESTABLISHING -
Again the Outback vehicle flies across the open plains. Mac
drives, while Steve watches the beautiful scenery pass by.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 47.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment
Jane once again has her camera out catching pristine shots
of wildlife and the scenery.
- Montage Begins -
This montage cuts between the Wildlife, the Scenery and the
passangers inside the Outback Vehicle.
It's purpose is to show a relationship begin to built between
Steve and Jane as they experience Kenya together.
As Jane pulls the camera down from taking a picture, Steve
points to a family of Giraffe that gracefully run through
the tall grass. Jane is quick to point her camera and shoot
a picture.
P.O.V
through the lens of the camera the Mother and baby Giraffe
are perfectly frames.
- SNAP - the shutter closing leaving a perfect picture.
ANGLE ON
Steve who smiles as he watches Jane, this time with much
more compassion and tenderness.
as Jane pulls the camera down she notices Steve looking at
her, but Steve is quick to just point back at the giraffe.
As Jane turns to look
P.O.V
Jane sees what could not be seen before, a pack of lioness'
are in close persuit of the baby giraffe.
ANGLE BACK ON
Jane who looks at Steve with concern. But Steve just smiles
and points back at the Giraffe.
P.O.V
Jane see's the lioness' stop their persuit and let the
giraffe's escape.
ANGLE BACK ON
Steve and Jane, as she looks back at him with a look of
relief.
(CONTINUED)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written By J.Daniel Nell PG 48.
Copyright © 2000 Envision Entertainment