Part 3: Rusty the Puppy
An original screenplay
This is Part 3 of a three part screenplay. If you haven’t read Parts 1 or 2 yet, click them here. If you have, the script continues below…
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, STREET IN FRONT
NICK nails SIGN to lamp post, walks up street with leash.
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, FRONT YARD
NICK walks up to front door, holding stack of leftover SIGNS, reaches for key.
Car honks.
UNCLE MIKE pulls in.
UNCLE MIKE
G‘Mornin’, Nick.
NICK
G‘Mornin’, Mike.
UNCLE MIKE
You posting those “LOST DOG” signs?
NICK
Yeah, but it doesn’t seem to help. Nobody’s calling.
UNCLE MIKE
Give it some time, my friend, give it some time.
UNCLE MIKE carries TALL BOX, wrapped again with BLUE BOW.
NICK
You’ve got to be kidding.
UNCLE MIKE
We’ll have better luck this time, I think.
NICK
I’m not playing ball, Mike. Not this time, no way.
NICK turns, opens door.
UNCLE MIKE follows.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, LIVING ROOM
UNCLE MIKE puts TALL BOX on table.
BRUTUS, sitting in windowsill, takes acute interest.
NICK
Take it back. I’m serious.
UNCLE MIKE
Open it.
NICK
You saw what happened last time.
UNCLE MIKE
This one is kitty cat proof. I’ll help you set it up.
NICK sighs, pulls off BLUE BOW, lid, peers inside.
NICK smirks, removes BIRD CAGE with small yellow CANARY bird.
CANARY
Cheep! Cheep!
NICK
This is insane.
UNCLE MIKE slides chair under CHANDELIER, hooks BIRD CAGE.
UNCLE MIKE
Voila! It’ll be safe and sound up there for sure!
BRUTUS jumps off windowsill, starts prancing underneath.
NICK
Ya think?
BRUTUS POV: Dresser, to book shelf, to BIRD CAGE.
UNCLE MIKE
Come on! How’s the cat gonna get all the way up there?
NICK
I just don’t want the bird, OK?
UNCLE MIKE
Nick, Nick, Nick…
CANARY
Cheep! Cheep! Cheep!
NICK
Look, I know you’re just trying to make me feel better, and I appreciate it.
UNCLE MIKE
No worries.
NICK gestures with leash.
NICK
But the only thing that brings me joy is going out there trying to find Rusty.
UNCLE MIKE
Just picture yourself, coming home after a long day, only to find this beautiful song bird here, serenading you.
NICK POV: PAN up to swinging BIRD CAGE, door open, EMPTY.
NICK puts arm around UNCLE MIKE, pushes him toward door.
NICK
You’re right, Uncle! I’m sure I’m gonna love my new pet! Thanks so much for coming!
UNCLE MIKE
You OK?
NICK opens front door, starts pushing UNCLE MIKE out.
NICK
Never been better! Especially now that I’ve got this awesome new bird!
UNCLE MIKE
Uh, all right, then. Glad that I could be of help, Nick. Enjoy the bird. See you later. And see you later, too, Brutus.
BRUTUS, sitting on windowsill, starts to hack.
UNCLE MIKE
You all right, kitty?
NICK
He’s fine, he’s fine!
NICK pushes UNCLE MIKE, who resists and looks back at BRUTUS, suddenly barfing bunch of yellow feathers.
NICK smirks.
UNCLE MIKE looks up at swinging empty BIRD CAGE.
UNCLE MIKE
Really?
NICK
Really really.
UNCLE MIKE
You guys are hopeless! I’m outta here!
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, FRONT YARD
UNCLE MIKE trots out of house to pickup.
NICK follows.
UNCLE MIKE gets in, starts it, and pulls out of driveway.
UNCLE MIKE
Hopeless!
NICK
(waving)
See you soon, Mike.
UNCLE MIKE shakes head, but smiles.
Pickup takes off down street.
NICK turns to BRUTUS, sitting in windowsill.
NICK
You’re a real piece of work, Bud.
BRUTUS
Meow.
NICK laughs.
INT — SUSIE’S STUDIO, LIVING ROOM, AFTERNOON
City skyline through windows. Cozy little place with
feminine touch.
Door opens, SUSIE and RUSTY playfully enter.
RUSTY runs all about, sniffing and carrying-on.
RUSTY
Yap! Yap!
SUSIE
I know it’s small, but it’s home.
RUSTY
Yap!
SUSIE
First things first: We both need a bath! Let’s get you cleaned up!
INT — SUSIE’S STUDIO APARTMENT, BATHROOM, EARLY EVENING
SUSIE lifts RUSTY and puts him into bathtub.
RUSTY yelps.
SUSIE
Oh, don’t be afraid.
SUSIE tosses rubber ducky into bathtub.
SUSIE kneels and gives RUSTY bubble bath.
RUSTY, covered in bubbles, smiles.
RUSTY
Yap! Yap!
SUSIE
You really freaked me out when I saw you in the river.
RUSTY licks SUSIE.
SUSIE
What were you doing out there? Did you fall in?
RUSTY squeezes rubber ducky, “squeak!”
SUSIE
I’m glad I found you when I did. (Lathering soap.) Let’s get you nice and clean. You’re safe with me now!
INT — SUSIE’S APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM, FEW MINUTES LATER
SUSIE chases RUSTY with towel.
RUSTY shakes, water flying.
SUSIE ducks, laughs, throws towel on RUSTY, dries him off.
SUSIE
You must be starving! Let me go to the kitchen and get you something to eat. Make yourself right at home!
SUSIE leaves.
RUSTY jumps onto sofa, chases tail few times.
Shuffling and scurrying sounds.
RUSTY looks, sniffs.
Shuffling and scurrying coming from different direction.
RUSTY leaps off sofa, sniffs, stands in middle of room.
RUSTY
Is it you, Rex?
Silence.
RUSTY stares at ajar closet door.
RUSTY
Come out! I’m not afraid of you! I’ve got a new master now.
Silence.
RUSTY
Did you see how much she likes me? This is the real thing.
RUSTY approaches ajar door.
FLY comes buzzing out.
RUSTY bats at FLY, which is suddenly snapped out of air by long TONGUE that shoots out of closet and snaps back inside.
CHEWING sounds.
RUSTY POV: Closet door creaks open, revealing colorful, ridged, horned, slavering IGUANA.
RUSTY
Yap! Yap! Yap!
RUSTY turns and runs right into SUSIE, holding small bowl of milk.
SUSIE puts down bowl and picks up shivering RUSTY.
SUSIE
I see you’ve met my pet, Carlos.
CARLOS licks lips with TONGUE.
SUSIE sets RUSTY down.
SUSIE
Have some milk. It’ll relax you.
RUSTY starts to lick milk. CARLOS shoots TONGUE at bowl.
SUSIE
(waving her finger)
Car-los.
CARLOS belches.
SUSIE
(claps)
Bed time!
CARLOS stands motionless.
RUSTY leaps into SUSIE’S arms.
INT — SUSIE’S STUDIO APARTMENT, BEDROOM, EVENING
SUSIE is in bed, reading.
RUSTY next to her, looking at CARLOS, on windowsill.
SUSIE takes off glasses.
SUSIE
Night, night!
RUSTY
Yap.
SUSIE
Carlos?
TONGUE shoots out, snaps off light switch.
Semi-darkness.
Wind outside shakes window.
Silhouette of CARLOS sitting in windowsill.
RUSTY curls up, head beneath blanket.
EXT — MANSION GATES, NIGHT
GHOST REX floats down and lands at spot where he last saw RUSTY.
GHOST REX
Rusty! Where’d you go?
GHOST REX follows trail to ajar MANHOLE COVER.
GHOST REX
Oh, no. What have you gotten yourself into now?
INT — SEWER TUNNELS
GHOST REX flies through TUNNELS, sniffing.
Growling sounds. RED EYES follow GHOST REX.
SEWER MONSTER appears.
SEWER MONSTER
Rrrrrrrrrrrr!
GHOST REX
You have got to be kidding.
SEWER MONSTER attacks GHOST REX, jaws snapping into thin
air. “Snap! Snap! Snap!”
GHOST REX shrugs.
GHOST REX
You finished yet?
SEWER MONSTER
Rrrrrrrrrrrr!
GHOST REX
Have you seen my friend? White puppy, orange spots? (Gestures.) So big?
SEWER MONSTER belches.
GHOST REX
Oh, no!
GHOST REX flies off down TUNNEL.
GHOST REX
I came too late! This ugly monster probably ate my little Rusty.
SEWER MONSTER in pursuit, jaws snapping.
EXT — RESERVOIR
GHOST REX flies out as SEWER MONSTER smashes against bars.
SEWER MONSTER
Rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!
RIVER BANK, NIGHT
Glowing GHOST REX walks on river.
GHOST REX
I can’t believe it. It’s all my fault. I came too late, poor little guy.
GHOST REX sees object on shore.
GHOST REX walks toward it, finds SUSIE’S BOOK, sniffs it.
GHOST REX
Bingo! You made it, Rusty! (Beat.) Somebody’s found you. Now I have to find that somebody, and I’ll find you.
EXT — PARK, BY RIVER
GHOST REX follows trail into PARK.
INT — SUSIE’S STUDIO APARTMENT, KITCHEN, MORNING
CARLOS basks in sun.
TONGUE lashes out, snaps FLY.
CARLOS chews.
SUSIE sits at kitchen table.
RUSTY sits below, leery of CARLOS.
SUSIE tosses morsel of food for RUSTY.
RUSTY
Yap!
SUSIE stands, straightens herself up.
SUSIE
OK, you crazy kids! I’m off to work. You two behave, and have fun!
SUSIE grabs bag, books.
Pets RUSTY on way out.
SUSIE
Bye, little guy. (Waving.) Bye, Carlos! Be nice to our new roommate!
SUSIE exits.
RUSTY fearfully looks at CARLOS.
CARLOS looks at closed door, starts to slither slowly toward RUSTY, who
moves backward.
CARLOS continues to approach RUSTY, who yelps.
CARLOS gets closer and closer to RUSTY, who is now flinching.
CARLOS stops.
RUSTY’s eyes open in terror.
CARLOS
(Mexican accent)
Hey, Perrito.
RUSTY cowers in fear.
CARLOS
Do you know what time it is?
RUSTY
Yap?
CARLOS
It’s time for —
TONGUE shoots out, RUSTY leans out of way, as TONGUE snaps
at TV, turning it on.
CARLOS gestures.
ONSCREEN: Opening sequence of Disney’s 1957 show ZORRO.
Cloudy sky is sliced in half by lightning strike forming “Z”, full moon shining brightly as silhouetted swordsman comes riding into screen.
THEME SONG PLAYS
(CARLOS sings along)
Out of the night, when the
full moon is bright /
Comes the horseman known as
“Zorro”!
CARLOS
(spoken)
Check it out, amigo. This is my favorite part.
ONSCREEN: Swordfights and slashing “Z’s”.
THEME SONG CONTINUES
(CARLOS sings along)
This bold renegade carves a
“Z” with his blade /
A “Z” that stands for…
(snapping his TONGUE)
“Zorro!”
TONGUE shoots out again, muting TV.
CARLOS
I can’t believe you don’t like my favorite television show!
RUSTY moves slightly back.
CARLOS
Zorro is my hero! I want to go on adventures and do brave deeds just like him!
CARLOS poses as swashbuckling hero, TONGUE lashing out in
mock swordplay.
RUSTY ducks, sheepishly moves farther back.
CARLOS
“Stand back, Senior Comandante! Get ready for ‘Carlos’!”
TONGUE shoots out and draws CARLOS-spit “C” on wall.
CARLOS stands on tiny hind legs, tail forming “C”.
CARLOS
(flashing Zorro-style smile)
Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! (Beat.) What do you say, amigo?
RUSTY hides behind his own tail.
RUSTY
Are you going to kick me out of the house?
CARLOS sits, gets out of his swashbuckler character.
CARLOS
Kick you out? What are talking about? Why would I do that, Perrito?
RUSTY sighs, relaxes slightly.
RUSTY
Aren’t you afraid she might like me better?
CARLOS
Who? Senorita? El dios mio!
RUSTY
Yap?
CARLOS
The senorita and Carlos go way back. Carlos is her protector, her guard iguana. If anybody threatens her, then watch out! (CARLOS strikes pose, TONGUE snaps, continues.) She seems to like you. You make her happy. And if Carlos’s senorita is happy, then Carlos is happy!
CARLOS extends a claw.
RUSTY looks at scaly little claw.
CARLOS
You know what? (Beat.) You must be Carlos’ assistant!
RUSTY looks quizzically at claw, then at CARLOS.
CARLOS
You must be my “Bernardo”!
RUSTY shrugs, takes CARLOS’s claw.
CARLOS pulls RUSTY up.
CARLOS
Let’s make a solemn oath.
RUSTY
Yap?
CARLOS
“Amigos forever!”
RUSTY pulls back his paw and sadly sits in corner.
CARLOS
Que paso, amigo? What’s wrong?
RUSTY
It’s a long story.
CARLOS sits, gestures to hole in his head.
CARLOS
I’m all ears!
RUSTY
You don’t wanna know.
CARLOS
We are amigos! We must share.
RUSTY
I had a friend once. My master.
CARLOS sits captivated.
RUSTY
We played together. He taught me tricks. I loved him.
CARLOS
Every perrito must have a good master.
RUSTY
But then he threw me out, and I ran away.
CARLOS
Why? He was your master!
RUSTY
You’re not going to believe this.
CARLOS
Try me.
RUSTY
Ghost dog.
CARLOS
Que?
RUSTY
My master’s old dead dog came back from the grave to get rid of me.
CARLOS sits back, contemplatively stares at RUSTY.
RUSTY
I knew you wouldn’t believe me.
CARLOS
Oh, I believe you, perrito.
RUSTY
Really?
CARLOS
Oh, yeah, amigo. My family is from Guadalajara. We got ghosts floating around all over the place.
RUSTY
And now he’s in the city, trying to bring me back home.
CARLOS
Ghosts return because they have unfinished business on the Earth. The ghost dog needs to fix what he broke before he can get into Heaven.
RUSTY
Yes, but I told him to go away. I told him that I could make in on my own.
CARLOS
You can, perrito. But you belong with your master.
RUSTY
What master? Where is he?
CARLOS
Maybe he’s out there looking for you?
RUSTY
I don’t think so. He loved his other dog more than me.
CARLOS
Hmmm.
RUSTY
My master’s forgotten about me.
CARLOS
(claw around RUSTY)
I’m so sorry, perrito. But don’t worry! The senorita can be your new master now. And Carlos, as your good amigo, promises to protect you and help take care of you!
RUSTY
(wipes a tear)
Yap!
CARLOS extends his claw again.
This time RUSTY takes it.
CARLOS
“Amigos forever!”
RUSTY
“Amigos forever!” Yap!
Claw and paw come together.
ONSCREEN: TV shows ZORRO doing fancy blade work.
RUSTY turns sound on with his nose.
CARLOS lolls TONGUE.
RUSTY looks at CARLOS, copies lolling TONGUE.
CARLOS
Que rico!
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, FRONT YARD, EARLY MORNING
NICK grabs morning NEWSPAPER.
Car horn sounds.
NICK looks up, see’s UNCLE MIKE pull up in driveway in pickup.
UNCLE MIKE
G‘Mornin’, Nick.
NICK
G‘Mornin’, Mike.
NICK turns and heads back.
UNCLE MIKE grabs OBLONG BOX with BLUE BOW as NICK starts closing door behind him.
UNCLE MIKE puts foot in door, keeping it open.
NICK continues inside.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, LIVING ROOM
UNCLE MIKE follows, puts OBLONG BOX on table.
BRUTUS, on windowsill, is again rather curious.
NICK
No.
UNCLE MIKE
This one comes with advanced technology!
NICK
No way.
UNCLE MIKE unwraps BLUE BLOW, removes lid, and takes out
HAMSTER CAGE containing large, furry HAMSTER.
UNCLE MIKE
Take a look at this high-tech cage!
BRUTUS prances around CAGE.
HAMSTER runs on treadmill.
NICK
You feeling OK?
UNCLE MIKE
Take a look at this multilock protection system!
UNCLE MIKE gestures to HAMSTER CAGE, which is secured with
computerized door latch and other gizmos.
NICK
You think that’s going to work?
UNCLE MIKE
Oh, yeah.
NICK
You think I’m going to care?
UNCLE MIKE
Sure! Why not? You’ll love the little guy.
NICK
(pointing to CAGE)
Which little guy?
UNCLE MIKE
That little —
Empty HAMSTER CAGE.
Empty treadmill is turning slowly, squeaking, “eee, eee, eee, eee, eee…”.
SLO PAN: BRUTUS sitting on windowsill.
BRUTUS rubs belly, belches.
UNCLE MIKE
(to BRUTUS)
You little —
NICK holds UNCLE MIKE back.
BRUTUS hides under COUCH.
NICK
Down, boy.
UNCLE MIKE
(regaining composure)
That cat is really something.
NICK
Just doing his cat-thing.
UNCLE MIKE
Isn’t it about time you did your thing?
NICK
What do you mean?
UNCLE MIKE
Pets are great, Nick. But maybe you’re ready for something, or someone (winks), else to make you happy.
NICK
I was happy with Rex. And I miss Rusty.
UNCLE MIKE
How about a girlfriend? She could keep you company.
NICK
I couldn’t even take care of the puppy. What makes you think I’m ready for a relationship?
UNCLE MIKE
Rusty’s gone, Nick. I think you should just move on.
NICK
I don’t think I tried hard enough to find him, Mike.
UNCLE MIKE
We put signs up all over town.
NICK points to cityscape in distance.
NICK
But we didn’t try in the city.
UNCLE MIKE
The city? Do you think he could make it out that far?
NICK
Why not? It’s worth a try.
UNCLE MIKE
Come on, Nick. Aren’t you over that puppy yet?
NICK
No! I feel really bad about what happened. And I’m going to do whatever I can to get him back.
UNCLE MIKE
You’re nuts, Nick. I think you’re awesome, but you’re crazy. (Beat.) I have to get going. You know I’m here for you whenever you need me.
NICK
I know, Mike. You’re the best. I’ll see ya.
NICK opens door.
UNCLE MIKE exits.
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, FRONT LAWN
UNCLE MIKE walks around pick up, makes passing glance at
back.
UNCLE MIKE POV: RUSTY’s leash hooked on a BOX.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, LIVING ROOM
Knocking at door.
More knocking.
NICK answers door.
UNCLE MIKE stands there, holding leash.
NICK
Hey, Mike.
UNCLE MIKE hands NICK the leash.
UNCLE MIKE
You’re right. In my truck. He must have snuck himself a free ride to the city.
NICK
Rusty?
UNCLE MIKE
Pack it up, Kid. Let’s go!
NICK
Thanks, Uncle Mike!
NICK turns back toward house.
UNCLE MIKE
Nick.
NICK stops, turns.
NICK
Yeah?
UNCLE MIKE
I’m not bringing you any more pets, OK?
NICK
More pets? That was your idea.
UNCLE MIKE
My idea?
NICK and UNCLE MIKE laugh.
INT — SUSIE’S STUDIO APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM, EVENING
RUSTY tosses BALL into air.
CARLOS’ TONGUE snaps at it.
RUSTY
Nice one, Carlos.
CARLOS
Gracias. Practice makes perfecto, perrito!
RUSTY and CARLOS take break, sipping drinks.
CARLOS
Hey. You know what?
RUSTY
What?
CARLOS
You need a real name, like “Bernardo”.
RUSTY
No way! I already have my own name.
CARLOS slurps rest of drink, belches.
CARLOS
The name senorita gave you? “Spot”?
RUSTY
No, my first and only name.
CARLOS sits for a moment, staring into space.
CARLOS
Who gave it to you?
RUSTY
My first master gave it to me.
CARLOS
The young hombre who kicked you out?
RUSTY sits down and looks out window.
RUSTY
Yes.
CARLOS
What is his name?
RUSTY
“Nick”.
CARLOS
Hmmm. What was your name?
RUSTY
“Rusty”.
CARLOS
“Rusty”?
RUSTY
“Rusty”, that’s me.
CARLOS
Don’t you like your new name?
RUSTY
Not really.
CARLOS
You’ve got a new life. A new master. A new amigo.
RUSTY
I still miss my old master.
CARLOS
You said he’s forgotten about you.
RUSTY
Sometimes I wonder.
CARLOS
Life goes on, amigo!
RUSTY
Maybe you’re right…
CARLOS
I got a better name for you. (Beat.) “Fandango”!
RUSTY
Ya think?
CARLOS
But of course. That’s actually short for “Fandango Alberto Del Castillo Toro Amadeo Maximiliano (takes a breath) Martinez”.
RUSTY
You’re kidding, right?
CARLOS
No. We can call you “#FADCTAMM” for short.
RUSTY
How about just “Max”?
CARLOS
OK. Max.
CARLOS and RUSTY hug.
SUSIE enters.
SUSIE
Awwwww, you Crazy Kids. Bed time!
INT — SUSIE’S APARTMENT, BEDROOM, LATER
TONGUE turns off light.
Darkness.
CARLOS sits on windowsill, silhouetted against FULL MOON.
GHOST REX floats in.
GHOST REX
(whispering)
Rusty! I found you! Wake up!
CARLOS
(facing away)
Ghost dog. You have returned.
GHOST REX
Who are you?
CARLOS
I am Rusty’s amigo and protector. And you are the spirit of the dog who kicked him out of his home.
GHOST REX
That’s right. And I’m here to bring him back.
CARLOS
There is no need. He is home now.
GHOST REX
Home is where his master is.
CARLOS
He has a new master, Senorita Susanna. And a new amigo, Don Carlos. And I won’t let you destroy this new home, too.
GHOST REX
I have returned to fix what I have broken.
CARLOS
Look at him. He’s never been happier.
CLOSE UP: RUSTY smiling in his sleep.
CARLOS
So your job is already finished.
GHOST REX
Let me talk to him. Let me ask him what he wants.
CARLOS
Don’t wake him up. We know what he wants, and he’s finally found it. (Beat.) Now you should go.
GHOST REX
I can never rest until Rusty and his master are reunited. (turning away) I don’t have a choice.
GHOST REX floats off and vanishes.
CARLOS covers RUSTY with blanket, lies down next to RUSTY.
CARLOS wraps his tail around RUSTY.
FADE OUT.
FADE IN.
EXT — PARK, PICNIC AREA NEAR A PATH, AROUND NOON
EXTREME CU: Marching ANTS led by ANT DRILL SERGEANT.
ANT DRILL SERGEANT
“I don’t know, but I’ve been told!”
ANT SQUAD
“I don’t know, but I’ve been told!”
ANT DRILL SERGEANT
“Steal it fast, ‘fore it gets cold.”
ANT SQUAD
“Steal it fast, ‘fore it gets cold.”
ANT DRILL SERGEANT
“One for all, and all for one.”
ANT SQUAD
“One for all, and all for one.”
ANT DRILL SERGEANT
“Juicy burgers, with the bun.”
ANT SQUAD
“Juicy burgers, with the bun.”
SLOW PULL BACK: ANTS crawling on red and white checkerboard
tablecloth spread, heading toward wicker picnic BASKET.
ANT DRILL SERGEANT
“Go, Ants!”
ANT SQUAD
“Rahhhhhhhhhh!”
TONGUE shoots out and grabs all ANTS in one swoop.
PULL BACK: CARLOS chewing and belching. CARLOS is on a leash, and tied to tree.
RUSTY is lying on the spread, which holds wicker FOOD BASKET, toys, and games.
CARLOS
What a great day for a picnic, amigo. Very breezy, puffs of clouds, not too warm. Rico!
RUSTY
Yap!
SUSIE
Let’s go play!
RUSTY excitedly jumps up and runs in circles around CARLOS.
RUSTY
Yap! Wanna go? Yap, yap!
CARLOS
No, amigo. (lying back) It’s siesta time.
CARLOS closes eyes.
SUSIE waits for RUSTY with open arms.
RUSTY jumps up into SUSIE’S outstretched arms.
SUSIE
I love you!
RUSTY
Yap! Yap! Yap!
EXT — PARK, BENEATH LARGE TREE, MOMENTS LATER
SUSIE tosses FRISBEE, RUSTY retrieves it.
SUSIE catches her breath, sits on park bench to rest.
SUSIE
Shake!
RUSTY shakes her hand.
SUSIE
Roll over!
RUSTY rolls over.
SUSIE
Play dead!
RUSTY lies on his back, feet in air.
SUSIE
Good Boy!
SUSIE rubs RUSTY’S tummy.
EXT — PARK, PICNIC AREA NEAR PATH
CARLOS sleeps as a PAW comes into frame and swoops up FOOD BASKET.
PULL BACK: GANG CATS swarm in formation, tossing FOOD BASKET back and forth among them as they escape.
CARLOS awakens suddenly, rushes after GANG CATS, but is caught on leash.
CARLOS
Caramba!
CARLOS puts claw into his mouth and WHISTLES.
EXT — PARK, BENEATH LARGE TREE
RUSTY hears WHISTLE.
RUSTY’S ears perk up.
RUSTY POV: Upside down GANG CATS, tossing FOOD BASKET, rush off along path.
SUSIE
Rusty! They stole our food! Stop them!
RUSTY jumps up, chases after GANG CATS.
EXT — PARK, PICNIC AREA NEAR PATH
CARLOS struggles against leash, pulls, snaps, tries again.
CARLOS
(mumbling under breath)
Es esta más feo que el culo de un mono…
EXT — PARK PATH, MOMENTS LATER
RUSTY runs after GANG CATS.
RUSTY
Yap! Yap! Yap!
RUSTY gets closer, GANG CATS scratching at RUSTY.
GANG CAT #1
How’s our star doing?
RUSTY
Drop it!
GANG CAT #2
Crashing your own party again?
RUSTY
That’s my master’s!
GANG CAT #3
You always get the best chow!
EXT — PARK, UNDERNEATH ENORMOUS OAK TREE
GANG CATS climb up branches, distributing themselves to the top branch, where DIRECTOR sits in a folding chair.
GANG CATS toss FOOD BASKET one to another, climbing progressively higher.
FOOD BASKET finally makes to DIRECTOR.
RUSTY arrives at the bottom of TREE, looks up.
RUSTY
Yap! Yap! Yap!
DIRECTOR
Where’s a good stunt puppy when you need one?
EXT — PARK, PICNIC AREA NEAR PATH
CARLOS hears ZORRO THEME MUSIC playing in his head.
ZORRO THEME SONG
(CARLOS sings)
Zorro, Zorro, the fox so
cunning and free /
(crescendos)
Zorro, Zorro, who makes the
sign of the “Z”
CARLOS rushes around tree, leash tightening, stretching, until CARLOS SLING-SHOTS in rapid outward spiral, leash snapping off as CARLOS goes flying…
EXT — PARK, BENEATH LARGE TREE
SUSIE, mouth dropping, watches CARLOS sail off into the sky and across the PARK.
EXT — ENORMOUS OAK TREE, IN BRANCHES
CARLOS falls from the sky and right onto DIRECTOR, who thrashes about.
CARLOS wrestles FOOD BASKET away from DIRECTOR.
DIRECTOR
He’s got the chow! Get him!
TONGUE snaps at DIRECTOR as CARLOS leaps from branch-to-branch carrying FOOD BASKET.
TONGUE is snapping-away at GANG CATS, who plummet off TREE.
CARLOS lands on a branch.
CARLOS
We have recovered the treasure, amigo!
RUSTY
Drop it down to me, Carlos.
CARLOS drops FOOD BASKET.
RUSTY expectantly waits for it, arms extended.
FOOD BASKET is swooped-up by BOSS KITTY.
RUSTY
Yap!
BOSS KITTY
Time to go. Bye-bye, Boys.
CARLOS leaps off branch.
BOSS KITTY runs with FOOD BASKET, pursued by RUSTY and CARLOS.
SUSIE rushes up, sees pursuit.
SUSIE
She’s got our food!
CARLOS
Andale! Andale!
RUSTY
Yap! Yap!
EXT — PARK, NEAR FOUNTAIN
BOSS KITTY runs with FOOD BASKET to base of FOUNTAIN, where
MANHOLE COVER is ajar.
BOSS KITTY pushes COVER aside.
BOSS KITTY
So long, Suckers!
BOSS KITTY leaps.
CARLOS and RUSTY rush up, peer inside.
SUSIE
No, boys, don’t go down there!
CARLOS and RUSTY shrug, fist-pump, leap inside.
INT — SEWER BENEATH PARK
CARLOS and RUSTY splash into murky water. P
OV: BOSS KITTY with FOOD BASKET takes corner, vanishes down side pipe.
CARLOS
Caramba! There she is!
RUSTY holds CARLOS back.
RUSTY
Hold on. I know a short cut down that channel. Come on!
INT — SEWER BENEATH PARK, FARTHER DOWN
CARLOS and RUSTY zig and zag through various sewer tunnels.
CARLOS
Are you sure you know where you’re going, amigo?
RUSTY
Trust me.
INT — SEWER BENEATH PARK, SIDE TUNNEL
BOSS KITTY pushes FOOD BASKET ahead of her, snickering.
BOSS KITTY
That stupid puppy. We should have left him in that cage. I hate dogs, meow!
BOSS KITTY turns, runs right into CARLOS and RUSTY.
CARLOS
Hola, senorita!
RUSTY
Yap. That belongs to my master.
BOSS KITTY
I was your perfect master, gave you a home and a good job. (Beat.) How do you pay me back? By running away? By trying to steal my food? What kind of dog are you?
RUSTY
A loyal one. Now give me backmy master’s food!
BOSS KITTY laughs, and turns up another side tunnel.
RUSTY
Stop! That way is dangerous!
BOSS KITTY
(calling back)
Are you kidding? Meow-wow-wow!
CARLOS
We’re letting her go!
CARLOS tries to follow, but RUSTY holds him back.
RUSTY
Trust me.
BOSS KITTY continues.
RUSTY and CARLOS hear splashing sounds.
Growling.
BOSS KITTY O.S.
Meow! Meow! Help! Help!
More growling, more splashing.
Silence.
CARLOS and RUSTY look, but can’t see anything.
Moments later, FOOD BASKET floats to them.
RUSTY grabs it.
CARLOS and RUSTY “high five”.
CARLOS
(gesturing)
Vamonos! Let’s go!
RUSTY
I think that’s a good idea…
CARLOS and RUSTY turn as an enormous SHADOW engulfs them.
CARLOS goes into battle stance.
SEWER MONSTER rises.
SEWER MONSTER
Rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!
CARLOS
El dios mio! What is that?
RUSTY
We go way back…
SEWER MONSTER takes few steps toward them, mouth opening.
RUSTY cringes, closes eyes, holding FOOD BASKET tightly.
CARLOS steps in front of RUSTY, gazes at SEWER MONSTER.
CARLOS
Alberto?
SEWER MONSTER stops, looks at CARLOS.
SEWER MONSTER
Carlos?
CARLOS and ALBERTO hug.
FLAMENCO-style music cuts in from nowhere.
RUSTY opens his eyes, looks, sees them together.
RUSTY
You guys know each other?
CARLOS
Know each other? This is my long lost brother Alberto! (Beat.) Alberto, this is my amigo, Rusty. Rusty, Alberto.
ALBERTO
Nice to meet you.
RUSTY
Hi.
CARLOS
What happened to you, hermano? When that little girl flushed you down the toilet, we thought you were gone forever.
ALBERTO
It’s been hard on my own without my family, but I learned the sewer ways, and have been OK.
RUSTY
I can tell.
CARLOS
Thank you for helping us retrieve our food.
ALBERTO
No problemo. I got a good meal, too. (Belches.)
CARLOS
We gotta go, Bro. Want to come up with us?
ALBERTO
No, gracias. Last time I went top-side helicopters chased me. Besides, I kind of got used to it down here.
CARLOS
Adios, my brother!
ALBERTO
Fair well, my friends!
CARLOS and ALBERTO hug again.
ALBERTO slithers back into the dark tunnels.
CARLOS salutes him.
RUSTY
Yap.
EXT — PARK, NEAR FOUNTAIN
SUSIE kneels near MANHOLE COVER.
HEROIC MUSIC kicks in from nowhere, SUSIE looks up, stands.
SLO MO: CARLOS and RUSTY, filthy but triumphant, walk toward SUSIE, setting sun behind them.
RUSTY carries FOOD BASKET, and drops it at SUSIE’S feet.
SUSIE
I was so worried about you guys!
RUSTY
Yap! Yap!
CARLOS snaps TONGUE.
SUSIE kneels down and hugs them both.
SUSIE
You’re my heroes!
CARLOS and RUSTY wink.
TONGUE snaps.
RUSTY yaps.
SUSIE
You boys deserve a picnic lunch. Come on, let’s eat!
SUSIE opens FOOD BASKET.
SUSIE, RUSTY, and CARLOS sit down to eat.
SUN sets.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT — PARK, PICNIC AREA NEAR PATH, SUNSET
Sun going down, shadows, orange light, dusk.
SUSIE carries FOOD BASKET, walks with RUSTY, leashed CARLOS.
PAN: NICK stops at street lamp nearby, and tapes “LOST DOG” SIGN to it.
NICK sighs deeply, and walks toward waiting pickup truck.
INT — UNCLE MIKE’S PICKUP TRUCK
NICK
(gets into cabin)
That was the last one for today.
UNCLE MIKE
Have faith, Nick. Someone will call soon.
NICK
I’m exhausted.
UNCLE MIKE
Never give up, Nick. All it takes is one.
NICK
Let’s go.
UNCLE MIKE
OK. You need some rest. We can spread some more signs around tomorrow.
UNCLE MIKE starts pickup, and they drive off.
INT — PET SHOP, AFTERNOON
SUSIE exits store carrying full shopping bag.
FRONT DOOR of store is opened by NICK, who is holding a stack of PAPERS.
SUSIE and NICK make eye contact.
SUSIE drops her bag,
NICK drops several papers.
NICK picks up bag, hands it to her.
SUSIE picks up papers (accidentally leaving one sheet of PAPER on the ground) and gives them to him.
SUSIE
Oh, uh. Thank you!
NICK
Uh, oh. Thank you!
SUSIE turns and exits shop.
NICK enters.
SUSIE looks back toward store at NICK.
NICK looks back toward parking lot at SUSIE.
EXT — PET SHOP PARKING LOT
SUSIE walks to her car.
INT — PET SHOP
NICK removes piece of PAPER from stack, posts it on BULLETIN BOARD by door.
Wind kicks up and carries piece of PAPER that was left on ground out door and toward SUSIE.
EXT — PET SHOP PARKING LOT
PAPER POV: Wind blows PAPER toward SUSIE, who opens door, tosses in her purse.
PAPER sails through open car window, and right into SUSIE’S open purse.
SUSIE drives off.
PULL BACK: WIND transforms into GHOST REX, standing in PARKING LOT.
GHOST REX watches SUSIE drive off with RUSTY.
EXT — PARKING LOT OF APARTMENT, LATER
SUSIE grabs grocery bag and purse from car.
INT — HALLWAY BY APARTMENT DOOR
SUSIE rummages through her purse for apartment keys.
SUSIE finds PAPER.
SUSIE reads PAPER.
CLOSE UP: SUSIE’S reads.
INT — SUSIE’S STUDIO APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM
CARLOS and RUSTY watch TV.
ONSCREEN: ANIMAL PLANET episode, depicting colony of swarming TERMITES.
RUSTY
That’s gross.
CARLOS
Yummy! I love the Food Channel!
Sound of key in lock.
SUSIE enters.
CARLOS and RUSTY jump to greet SUSIE, who looks contemplative.
SUSIE
“Rusty”?
RUSTY
Yap! Yap! Yap!
SUSIE puts her head down and turns away from RUSTY, avoiding eye contact.
SUSIE grabs phone, dials number from PAPER, drops PAPER onto table, and enters KITCHEN, closing door in front of CARLOS and RUSTY.
CARLOS
What’s wrong with senorita?
RUSTY
I don’t know! I hope she’s OK.
CARLOS and RUSTY look at PAPER on table.
TONGUE snaps PAPER, which flutters to floor in front of them.
CLOSE UP: Photo of RUSTY
LOST DOG
Answers to “Rusty”
!! REWARD !!
Please call
714–290–3823
CARLOS looks at PAPER, then RUSTY, then PAPER, then RUSTY.
CARLOS
Is that you, amigo?
RUSTY nods head.
CARLOS
Ay, caramba!
INT — SUSIE’S STUDIO APARTMENT, KITCHEN
SUSIE drops PAPER onto table, picks up phone and dials number.
SUSIE listens, waits.
SUSIE hangs up.
SUSIE dials again, listens, waits.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, LIVING ROOM
Silent phone sits on table next to couch.
PAN to BRUTUS, detached CORD in his paw, swinging like a lasso.
BRUTUS tosses aside CORD, prances upstairs.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, BEDROOM
BRUTUS leaps into bed where NICK sits, looking out window.
BRUTUS leaps into NICK’S lap, rubs against him.
NICK
Nobody is calling about Rusty. (Beat.) I think it’s just you and me, Kiddo.
NICK pets BRUTUS, who purrs loudly.
INT — SUSIE’S STUDIO APARTMENT, KITCHEN
SUSIE tries a third time, finally hangs up.
SUSIE picks up PAPER, looks at it, shakes head, exits.
INT — SUSIE’S STUDIO APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM
SUSIE enters, looks at RUSTY.
SUSIE kneels down, embraces RUSTY closely.
SUSIE
You used to have a master, didn’t you?
RUSTY
Yap, yap!
SUSIE
Well, looks like he’s finally found you.
RUSTY
Yap, yap.
SUSIE
I can’t seem to get through, but there’s an address on the back of the sign. (Beat.) It’s breaking my heart, but I think there’s no choice but to try and take you back home… (Beat.) Rusty.
SUSIE stands, looks down at RUSTY sadly.
SUSIE
Let me get your leash and things, and we’ll go.
SUSIE exits.
RUSTY looks at CARLOS.
CARLOS
Looks like your first master has been looking for you this whole time, after all.
RUSTY
I can’t believe he’s still trying to find me. (Beat.) But I love Susie and you, my friend… What should I do, Carlos?
CARLOS
I don’t really know, perrito.
RUSTY
What would Zorro do?
CARLOS
Zorro would follow his heart, and let his destiny lead him.
RUSTY hugs CARLOS.
CARLOS, tears in his eyes, wraps his tail around RUSTY.
SUSIE enters with a leash, grabs handbag, and sweeps up RUSTY.
SUSIE and RUSTY head for the door.
CARLOS
“Amigos Forever!”
RUSTY
“Amigos Forever!”
RUSTY, tear in his eye, turns away.
Unseen CARLOS scampers toward door and jumps just before it closes…
CLOSE UP: CARLOS’ tail sticking out of SUSIE’s handbag.
INT — CAR, ON HIGHWAY, AFTERNOON
SUSIE drives.
RUSTY at her side.
Silence.
MONTAGE: Drive into suburbs.
RUSTY POV: Familiar neighborhood looming.
RUSTY gets excited.
SUSIE looks at RUSTY forlornly.
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, FRONT YARD, LATER THAT AFTERNOON
CAR pulls up.
BRUTUS sits in second floor windowsill.
BRUTUS POV: SUSIE and RUSTY go to front door.
BRUTUS retreats inside.
RUSTY jumps about, tail wagging.
SUSIE sighs then presses door bell.
Silence.
SUSIE tries again.
PAN UP: BRUTUS holding clapper, muffling bell.
SUSIE
Nobody home, Rusty.
RUSTY
Yap?
SUSIE
Come on. Let’s go.
SUSIE starts walking.
RUSTY looks at closed door.
SUSIE lifts RUSTY.
SUSIE closes door, RUSTY jumps into backseat.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, LIVING ROOM
NICK sits on sofa.
BRUTUS leaps into lap, purring.
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, FRONT YARD
SUSIE starts engine.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, LIVING ROOM
NICK hears car, tosses CAT off lap, goes to window.
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, FRONT YARD
NICK POV: CAR pulls out and starts up road.
INT — INSIDE CAR
House disappears into distance.
Something is moving toward them through dust…
NICK becomes visible, running toward them.
RUSTY
Yap! Yap! Yap! Yap! Yap! Yap!
SUSIE looks in rearview mirror.
SUSIE hits gas.
RUSTY
Yap! Yap! Yap! Yap! Yap! Yap! Yap! Yap! Yap! Yap! Yap! Yap!
SUSIE stares ahead, but then breaks down.
SUSIE
I don’t think I can do this.
EXT — COUNTRY ROAD
Car slows then stops.
Door opens, RUSTY leaps out and starts running toward NICK.
NICK, arms outspread to approaching RUSTY, who leaps into NICK’s arms.
NICK hugs and kisses RUSTY.
RUSTY licks NICK’s face.
NICK
Rusty!!
RUSTY
Yap! Yap! Yap!
INT — INSIDE CAR
SUSIE head on steering wheel, sobbing.
NICK, holding RUSTY, walks up to driver’s door.
SUSIE looks up, tears.
NICK
Well, hello there!
SUSIE
Uh, hi.
NICK
You’re the one who found Rusty?
SUSIE
More like Rusty found me.
RUSTY licks SUSIE’s face.
NICK
He sure does like you.
SUSIE
You, too.
NICK
Thank you so much for bringing him back to me.
SUSIE
(blushing)
You’re welcome.
Pause.
SUSIE puts car in drive.
NICK hangs on to car.
NICK
Won’t you come on in, have some coffee?
SUSIE
I’m not sure, you know, I should be…
RUSTY
Yap! Yap! Yap!
NICK
Looks like Rusty won’t let you go.
SUSIE
Oh, I guess I can stay a few minutes. (smiles at RUSTY) What do you think, Rusty?
RUSTY
Yap! Yap!
SUSIE nods.
NICK smiles.
RUSTY yaps.
SUSIE turns car around.
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, FRONT YARD
Car parked in drive way.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, KITCHEN
NICK and SUSIE sit at kitchen table, drinking tea and nibbling on cookies.
NICK
I’m so grateful you brought Rusty back. I missed him so much. The place hasn’t been the same without him.
SUSIE
He really is a special little puppy.
RUSTY gets up, scampers out of KITCHEN.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, LIVING ROOM
RUSTY trots along, big grin, checking out old house.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, STAIRS
RUSTY prances up steps, sees PORTRAIT of NICK and RUSTY.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, BEDROOM
RUSTY happily scampers about, sniffing, smiling as he finds
old squeaky TOYS, blanket, and water bowl with name “Rusty”.
RUSTY turns a corner and runs right into BRUTUS.
BRUTUS
(face-to-face)
Hi.
RUSTY steps backward.
BRUTUS moves toward him slowly.
BRUTUS
I couldn’t help but notice that you’re back.
BRUTUS moves, RUSTY steps into water bowl, shakes his paw.
BRUTUS
I also couldn’t help but notice that girl really likes you.
BRUTUS continues to move, RUSTY now pushed against a wall.
BRUTUS
You should have stayed with her.
RUSTY
I came back to be with my true master.
BRUTUS
Why? Didn’t he throw you out?
RUSTY
Look around. He loved me. He still loves me. And he’s been looking for me this whole time!
BRUTUS
Yeah, you’re right. So what? I bet that ghost dog is gonna come back here and do his tricks again, this time finishing the job.
RUSTY
I don’t think so. We know that it’s been you the whole time.
BRUTUS
Really? OK. You win. You can stay.
RUSTY
Really?
CAT grabs RUSTY by his neck, and leans into him.
BRUTUS
(whispering)
No, actually you can’t. Sorry. This place is mine. I own it now. And if you decide to stay, I’m going to make your life a living Hell.
BRUTUS pushes RUSTY away.
RUSTY brushes himself off.
RUSTY
I make my master happy. That’s why I’m here.
BRUTUS
That’s so sweet. Guess what? I’m here because I make myself happy. And that’s why I’m going to do everything in my power to kick you out for good this time.
RUSTY heads toward door.
BRUTUS blocks RUSTY.
RUSTY moves
to one side, CAT blocks.
BRUTUS and RUSTY “do the dance” for a while.
RUSTY
I’ve had enough.
BRUTUS
That’s good. So have I.
BRUTUS slaps RUSTY, who goes sailing across room.
BRUTUS approaches RUSTY again.
RUSTY gets up.
RUSTY
I’m not afraid of you. I’ve been to the big city. I’ve met your type.
BRUTUS
Not my type, Sweetheart.
BRUTUS flicks paw as long Wolverine-style claws protrude.
BRUTUS’ hair bristles, forming Wolverine-style hair.
RUSTY cowers.
BRUTUS
Come to Poppa!
BRUTUS lunges.
RUSTY closes eyes.
FLAMENCO MUSIC cuts in from nowhere.
BRUTUS stops, looks about with “What the hell?” look.
RUSTY opens one eye.
TONGUE snaps with lightning speed and pinpoin accuracy at BRUTUS’ claws, stomach, face, knocking him backward.
TONGUE
Snap! Snap! Snap!
CLOSE UP: BRUTUS’ face, a nasty saliva “C” across it.
CARLOS leaps off windowsill and into battle stance.
BRUTUS shakes head, wipes away “C,” tries to get his bearings.
BRUTUS
What is that?
CARLOS
Senior Don Carlos, at your service. And I see you’ve already met my assistant, Fandango Alberto Del Castillo Toro Amadeo Maximiliano Martinez (takes a breath) Rusty.
RUSTY
“Amigos Forever!”
CARLOS
“Amigos Forever!”
CARLOS and RUSTY “high-five” then lean back-to-back in defensive pose, as if surrounded by enemies.
RUSTY
Hey, what took you so long?
CARLOS
Well, you know, I was waiting for just the right moment to introduce myself.
BRUTUS
It talks?
RUSTY
It fights, too.
RUSTY and CARLOS get into battle stance.
BRUTUS
Great.
CARLOS and RUSTY leap toward BRUTUS.
BRUTUS
Meowwwww!
INT — HOUSE, KITCHEN
NICK and SUSIE are still at kitchen table.
SUSIE
Yeah, I was just sitting in the park, reading, and I saw something in the river.
NICK
Rusty?
SUSIE
Yes! I rushed up and saw a little puppy struggling in the water. He was so vulnerable, so helpless…
NICK nods, immersed in story.
Commotion comes from upstairs.
NICK ignores it, continues listening.
SUSIE continues her story.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, BEDROOM
BRUTUS swipes at RUSTY with claws.
RUSTY ducks.
TONGUE snaps another rapid-fire salvo at BRUTUS, who dodges and swipes again.
BRUTUS takes several TONGUE lashes.
BRUTUS recovers and leaps to window.
BRUTUS
Be back soon…
BRUTUS leaps out of window toward nearby tree branch.
Just before reaching branch, CARLOS’s TAIL shoots out after him, grabbing BRUTUS around his body, and hurling him back into BEDROOM.
Momentum sends BRUTUS sailing into RUSTY, who both…
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, STAIRWAY LANDING
…tumble headlong down steps.
BRUTUS
Ouch!
RUSTY
Yap!
BRUTUS falls on top of RUSTY on landing.
BRUTUS rolls off, gets into battle stance, claws extended.
RUSTY lies on his back, feet in air.
CARLOS, at head of STAIRWAY, calls down.
CARLOS
Amigo! You OK?
BRUTUS
(turns to CARLOS)
He’s finished. And you’re next!
RUSTY bites BRUTUS, sending BRUTUS tumbling down next flight of steps.
BRUTUS
Meowwww!!!
CARLOS leaps down to landing, joining RUSTY.
CARLOS and RUSTY lean back-to-back again, classic defensive stance.
CARLOS
That was excelente, amigo. Where did you learn that?
RUSTY
My master taught me how to play dead.
CARLOS
Good idea!
RUSTY
I also have some experience in the theatre. (Winks.)
CARLOS
Vamonos!
CARLOS and RUSTY race down second flight of steps after BRUTUS.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, KITCHEN
NICK and SUSIE continue, sitting closer together.
SUSIE
How did Rusty ever get away from you?
NICK
Oh, it’s totally my fault. My old dog had just died, and I was really emotional.
SUSIE
I’m so sorry.
SUSIE puts her hand in NICK’S hand.
SUSIE
I understand. Please, tell me more…
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, LIVING ROOM
BRUTUS swipes at CARLOS and RUSTY, then dives beneath furniture.
CARLOS lunges after BRUTUS, who sneaks up, climbing on top of bookshelf.
BRUTUS hurls BOOKS at CARLOS and RUSTY, who duck and dive out of way.
CAT picks up PORTRAIT of RUSTY and NICK.
RUSTY
Put that down!
CAT
OK.
BRUTUS hurls PORTRAIT at RUSTY.
PORTRAIT is delicately caught by CARLOS’ TAIL.
CARLOS’ TAIL places it back on SHELF.
BRUTUS jumps on CHANDELIER.
CARLOS’ TONGUE snaps at fixture, causing it to spin, sending BRUTUS flying off toward HALLWAY.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, KITCHEN
BACKGROUND: BRUTUS tumbles across doorway, paws clawing.
BRUTUS
Meow?
CARLOS and RUSTY leap into view, chasing BRUTUS out of other side of frame.
NICK turns just as ANIMALS are out of view.
NICK goes right back to listening intently to SUSIE.
NICK
So, what do you do for a living?
SUSIE
I’m a librarian.
NICK
Really? I love reading.
SUSIE blushes.
NICK blushes.
Pause.
NICK stands.
NICK
Would you mind if I showed you my place?
SUSIE
Sure.
EXT— NICK’S HOUSE, BACK PORCH
Door BURSTS open.
BRUTUS leaps out and into BACKYARD.
RUSTY and CARLOS follow close behind.
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, BACKYARD
CARLOS stops.
RUSTY
(also stopping)
What’s wrong, amigo?
CARLOS
You don’t need my help.
RUSTY
Yap?
CARLOS
I think you can finish the mission by yourself, Rusty.
RUSTY
But we are amigos! Forever!
CAT runs across BACK YARD, about to get away.
CARLOS
He’s all yours. Go!
RUSTY winks at CARLOS.
RUSTY rushes into BACK YARD.
INT — NICK’S HOUSE, LIVING ROOM
NICK and SUSIE walk into LIVING ROOM.
Place is trashed, with BOOKS everywhere, furniture knocked around.
NICK
Rusty?!
SUSIE
Maybe he’s excited seeing you again.
NICK
Sorry about the mess.
SUSIE
Seems like we both like reading…
NICK blushes again.
SUSIE blushes again.
SUSIE
I can help you clean up.
SUSIE and NICK move closer together.
A moment before they touch, NOISES erupt from BACK YARD.
SUSIE
Oh my gosh!
NICK
Rusty!
NICK and SUSIE rush out.
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, BACKYARD
RUSTY pursues BRUTUS in chase identical to that from beginning:
BRUTUS leaps through GARDEN, hurling vegetables at ducking RUSTY.
BRUTUS leaps onto TRASH CAN by SHED, hurling GARBAGE at ducking RUSTY.
BRUTUS leaps from TRASH CAN to SHED ROOF, hurling ROOF TILES at ducking RUSTY.
BRUTUS leaps from SHED ROOF to TREE BRANCH, taunting RUSTY.
BRUTUS
Afraid? Maybe you should be. Last time a grown dog tried to make it, he wound up a ghost dog. A puppy this time? Forget it.
RUSTY
I’m not afraid. And I’m not afraid of you.
BRUTUS
Awesome. Go for it, you stupid fuzz ball.
RUSTY takes several steps back, revs-up for jump.
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, BACK PORCH
NICK and SUSIE rush out onto patio.
SUSIE sees CARLOS.
SUSIE
Carlos!?
NICK
Wow. You are one, ugly —
SUSIE
Don’t worry. He’s with me.
CARLOS, NICK, and SUSIE look over at commotion, and see RUSTY on SHED ROOF.
NICK
Rusty! No!
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, BACKYARD
RUSTY runs along SHED ROOF and LEAPS.
SLOW MO: RUSTY flying through air between SHED ROOF and TREE BRANCH.
BRUTUS grins.
RUSTY continues, falling short of TREE BRANCH.
BRUTUS
Buh-bye.
SLOW MO: RUSTY falls downward, headed directly for STONE.
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, BACK PORCH
NICK and SUSIE
Rusty!!
CARLOS watches, mouth agape, TONGUE hanging out.
WIND suddenly kicks up, blowing SUSIE and NICK’s hair.
CARLOS sticks his nose in air, sniffing, looking around.
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, BACKYARD
SLOW MO: WIND blows with enough strength to lift RUSTY up and over to TREE BRANCH.
WIND morphs into GHOST REX, rush of air offering support to RUSTY as he scrambles back onto TREE BRANCH.
BRUTUS sees GHOST REX.
GHOST REX winks and vanishes.
BRUTUS
Meow?
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, BACK PORCH
NICK and SUSIE stare in awe.
CARLOS salutes.
EXT — NICK’S HOUSE, BACKYARD
RUSTY stands on TREE BRANCH, facing BRUTUS.
BRUTUS
Let’s be friends.
RUSTY
Ya think?
BRUTUS
“Amigos Forever!”
RUSTY
You’ve had your chance, Comandante!
RUSTY does impressive MOVES on BRUTUS, who tries to defend himself but it’s all over.
BRUTUS plummets from TREE BRANCH, lands on feet, and rushes off into BUSHES.
RUSTY smiles, but realizes how high he is, tries to balance.
RUSTY
Yap! Help! Yap!
NICK, SUSIE, and CARLOS appear below, gesturing for him to jump.
RUSTY shakes his head.
NICK
Come on, Rusty. Jump, and I’ll catch you.
RUSTY shakes head.
CARLOS
Come on, amigo! Jump!
RUSTY closes eyes and JUMPS.
RUSTY lands in NICK’s arms.
NICK hands RUSTY to SUSIE, their hands touching.
SUSIE pets RUSTY.
NICK puts arm around SUSIE.
NICK and SUSIE kiss.
RUSTY
(beaming)
Yap.
CARLOS cries.
CARLOS
Que lindo.
EXT — DOGGIE HEAVEN
PANORAMIC VIEW of fluffy bone-shaped clouds.
Gigantic GOLDEN FIRE HYDRANTS, FRISBEES, and CHEW TOYS.
Terrified MAIL MEN run, chased by BLESSED DOG SOULS.
GHOST REX floats into scene, escorted by HEAVENLY GUARD DOG.
HEAVENLY GUARD DOG
(sniffling)
So, you made it in, huh?
GHOST REX
It was close, but love conquered all.
HEAVENLY GUARD DOG
Always does. (Sneezes.)
GHOST REX
Will I be able to see how my friends on Earth are doing?
HEAVENLY GUARD DOG
Sure. (Beat.) You see Lassie here yet?
GHOST REX
Lassie?
HEAVENLY GUARD DOG
Sure! Rin-Tin-Tin, all those guys.
GHOST REX
Not yet. Any cats?
HEAVENLY GUARD DOG
(sneezes)
None here.
GHOST REX
I’m liking this place already.
HEAVENLY GUARD DOG
Come on…
FADE OUT.
FADE IN.
EXT — NICK AND SUSIE’S HOUSE, BACKYARD
Flowers blow in strong breeze over REX’S TOMBSTONE.
ONSCREEN TEXT: “FIVE YEARS LATER”
PAN: KIDS’ SWING, swinging back and forth underneath LARGE
TREE.
PULL IN through BACK YARD to FRONT PORCH, through
open back door and into KITCHEN.
INT — NICK AND SUSIE’S HOUSE, KITCHEN
Nick’s kitchen now transformed with woman’s touch.
SUSIE, slightly older, stands by CAKE, lighting last of four birthday candles.
SUSIE carries CAKE into LIVING ROOM.
INT — NICK AND SUSIE’S HOUSE, LIVING ROOM
LIVING ROOM is covered in birthday decorations.
Table has many presents.
NICK stands with BOBBY, four-year-old boy.
SUSIE places CAKE on table.
NICK
Happy birthday, Bobby!
BOBBY
Thanks mommy and daddy!
SUSIE
We’re so proud of you!
NICK
Make a wish and blow out the candles!
BOBBY inhales, blows.
Candles go out.
NICK and SUSIE hug BOBBY.
Car horn beeps outside.
NICK opens front door.
UNCLE MIKE stands, holding LARGE BOX with BLUE BOW.
UNCLE MIKE
Happy birthday, Bobby!
NICK
Let me guess…
UNCLE MIKE
The more things change, Nick.
SUSIE hugs UNCLE MIKE.
NICK takes LARGE BOX and puts it onto table.
NICK
Go ahead, Bobby. Open that one up first!
BOBBY
What is it?
BOBBY eagerly pulls off BLUE BOW and starts to remove lid.
CARLOS and RUSTY, off to one side, have taken some interest.
CARLOS
What do you think it is this year, amigo?
RUSTY
Video game?
CARLOS
Too big.
RUSTY
Foosball table?
CARLOS
Too small.
BOBBY removes NEW PUPPY, looks like young version of REX.
NEW PUPPY
Yap! Yap! Yap!
RUSTY stands suddenly, hair bristling.
RUSTY
Grrrrrrrrr.
CARLOS TONGUE snaps at RUSTY, who “snaps” out of it.
CARLOS
Hey! You forgetting something?
RUSTY
Yeah, I know. You’re right.
CARLOS
Muy bien.
NICK hands NEW PUPPY to BOBBY, who holds it eagerly.
BOBBY
What’s the puppy’s name?
NICK
How about we call him “Rex, Jr.”?
SUSIE
A bit long.
BOBBY
Rexie!
NICK and SUSIE smile, give BOBBY “thumbs up”.
NEW PUPPY
Yap! Yap! Yap!
SUSIE puts her arm around NICK.
CARLOS puts webbed claw around RUSTY.
SUSIE
I think that’s a nice name.
REXIE leaps out of BOBBY’s arms, rushes over to RUSTY, and licks RUSTY’s face.
RUSTY tries to resist at first, but rapidly succumbs.
CARLOS winks.
RUSTY can’t help but smile.
INT — NICK AND SUSIE’S HOUSE, KITCHEN
NICK and SUSIE sit at kitchen table, eating dinner.
BOBBY throws morsel to REXIE.
REXIE
Yap! Yap!
INT — NICK AND SUSIE’S HOUSE, LIVING ROOM
REXIE plays with a chew toy.
RUSTY and CARLOS sit on couch.
RUSTY looks out window.
CARLOS
What are you thinking about, amigo?
RUSTY
Sometimes I miss the other Rex.
CARLOS
Ah, el ghost dog.
RUSTY
I wish he could see us now.
CARLOS
I’m sure he does.
RUSTY
You think so?
CARLOS
I know so. I can feel his spirit.
Wall clock chimes the hour.
RUSTY
Do you know what time it is, Carlos?
CARLOS
I certainly do.
CARLOS whistles.
BRUTUS, older, and much, much fatter, hobbles over.
BRUTUS
(shrugging)
How might I serve you, Sir?
CARLOS gestures.
BRUTUS
(nodding)
Yes, Sir.
BRUTUS hobbles over to TV, turns it on.
ONSCREEN: Opening sequence of Disney’s 1957 show ZORRO.
Cloudy sky is sliced in half by lightning strike forming “Z”, full moon shining brightly as silhouetted swordsman comes riding into screen.
THEME SONG PLAYS
(CARLOS and RUSTY
sing along)
Out of the night, when the
full moon is bright /
Comes the horseman known as
“Zorro”!
CARLOS
“Amigos Forever!”
RUSTY
“Amigos Forever!”
ONSCREEN: Opening sequence of ZORRO is lost to WHITE NOISE.
Picture suddenly clears to image of GHOST REX in HEAVEN.
GHOST REX
“Amigos Forever!”
CARLOS
“Amigos Forever!”
RUSTY
“Amigos Forever!”
REXIE
Yap! Yap! Yap!
GHOST REX
(to BRUTUS)
Woof!
BRUTUS cringes and bristles.
BRUTUS
Meow!
BRUTUS leaps underneath sofa.
CARLOS, RUSTY, and REXIE “high-five”.
RUSTY and CARLOS turn back to TV.
REXIE chews on toy.
ONSCREEN: Opening sequence of ZORRO continues.
FADE OUT.
— FIN —
And here’s some of the real Rusty’s original artwork we used to promote the movie treatment back in 2009…
