A ragtag group of high school students take matters into their own hands to bring an end to crime both in and out of their school after they don masked identities to punish various perpetrators. This is the screenplay for the pilot episode of a 60 min TV "dramedy."

1. THE CRIMESTOPPERS
Written by
Sean Arthur
Address
Phone Number

2. TEASER
INT. SCHOOL LOCKER ROOM - DAY
An empty school locker room. Practice is over and the sound
of students emptying out echo across the halls.
A lone student, ROBERT (18, burly) approaches his locker. He
gives the lock a twist and opens it up.
Students’ voices start playing over the scene.
MALE STUDENT 1 (V.O.)
Did someone really do that? Nobody
deserves that.
FEMALE STUDENT 1 (V.O.)
I’m always astonished by how far
some people are willing to go to
hurt others.
Robert reaches into his locker and pulls out his letterman
jacket. His locker is dirtied with old clothes and pictures
of scantily-clad women taped on the locker door.
MALE STUDENT 2 (V.O.)
He’s not the nicest guy. We’ve all
heard the stories.
CUT TO:
INT. BEDROOM - DAY
MALE STUDENT 2 types at his computer, his face hidden from
the shot. His voice over states his thoughts as he types them
out on the social media website FriendLink.
MALE STUDENT 2 (V.O.)
Honestly, I’d say he had it coming.
CUT TO:
INT. SCHOOL LOCKER ROOM - DAY
Robert pulls a backpack out of the locker.
FEMALE STUDENT 2 (V.O.)
I don’t care who it is.
CUT TO:

3. INT. BEDROOM - DAY
FEMALE STUDENT 2 also types out her thoughts on FriendLink.
FEMALE STUDENT 2 (V.O.)
This is bullying. It’s violent and
dangerous. The school shouldn’t let
stuff like this happen.
CUT TO:
INT. SCHOOL LOCKER ROOM - DAY
Robert sets his backpack down as he pulls on his letterman.
MALE STUDENT 3 (V.O.)
The school won’t do anything. They
never do. This isn’t the first
incident and it won’t be the last.
FEMALE STUDENT 2 (V.O.)
If not the school, then who?
Robert slams his locker door shut, revealing a MASKED
ASSAILANT staring him down on the other side of the door. His
face is covered with a ski mask and he’s clad in all black.
Robert jumps back.
ROBERT
(Startled)
What the hell?
The Masked Assailant reacts quickly. He pushes Robert into
the lockers. Robert struggles to fight back, attempting to
pull the mask off.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
Get off of me! Who are you? Too
scared to show your face, coward?
The Masked Assailant struggles against the stronger Robert as
he nearly pulls up his mask. With his free hand, the
Assailant punches Robert in the ribs. Robert goes down.
Robert gasps for breath as he rolls down the lockers. He
looks up at his attacker.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
What do you want?
2.

4. The Masked Assailant responds with a swift punch across
Robert’s face, sending him sprawling. Robert grabs his
bleeding nose, groaning in pain.
The Masked Assailant spots Robert’s backpack and grabs it. He
starts running down the hall and exits out the door, leaving
Robert bruised and bleeding on the ground.
3.

5. ACT ONE
INT. BEDROOM - MORNING
A dark, quiet bedroom. Light has just started to trickle
through the windows. Posters of basketball greats line the
wall. A shelf with athletic trophies and ribbons lies over
the bed.
An alarm clock interrupts the silence.
The bed sheets begin to rustle as TYLER MCGUIRE (16, tall,
athletic) slinks out of bed. He turns the alarm clock off and
staggers to the bathroom.
INT. BATHROOM - MORNING
Tyler gets ready for the day: he jumps into the shower,
brushes his teeth, and picks out the day’s outfit.
INT. HALLWAY - MORNING
A stillness in the early morning. The lights are off. Nobody
else seems to be home. Pictures of a young couple and their
kid line the walls.
Tyler walks out of his bedroom and makes his way downstairs.
INT. KITCHEN - MORNING
Turning the lights on, Tyler fetches himself a bowl of
cereal. He eats alone at the table as the sun begins to shine
a bit brighter through the kitchen windows. The only sounds
are the chirps of the birds outside.
Tyler glances at the stove clock. It reads 7:45. Tyler
finishes his bowl and puts it in the sink. In a rush he grabs
his backpack and heads to the door.
EXT. CAR - MORNING
A quiet neighborhood. There is little traffic on the streets
as the sun has finally illuminated the morning shade.
Tyler drives his hand-me-down 1998 Honda Accord down the
street. Mellow classic rock adds a soundtrack to the ride.
4.

6. At a red light, Tyler spots a MOM waiting at a bus stop with
her TWO KIDS. He’s transfixed. He spends some time looking at
the scene even after the light turns green.
The sound of people mingling grows louder as Tyler pulls into
a parking lot of his high school. The face of the school
reads JACK HAYS HIGH SCHOOL in bold letters.
INT. JACK HAYS HIGH SCHOOL - MORNING
The school is packed. Students run around with schedules in
hand as faculty unsuccessfully bark out directions. It’s a
madhouse.
Tyler, calm, enters the chaos. He’s not in the school for
five seconds before ETHEL, the school’s secretary, warmly
greets him.
ETHEL
Good morning, Tyler! Excited for
the new year?
Tyler responds with a smile.
TYLER
Yes ma'am. I always forget how
crazy it gets on the first day.
ETHEL
You get used to it after a while.
Good luck in basketball this year.
TYLER
Thanks, I appreciate it.
Tyler pats her desk and sets off into the swarm of people. He
pulls out his own schedule to see where his first class is.
A voice calls out to him.
KATIE
Tyler! Hey!
Tyler turns to see KATIE WILLIAMS (16, brunette) motioning
him to stop. She walks over to a smiling Tyler. He’s clearly
smitten with her.
KATIE (CONT’D)
Wait up, bro. You in that big of a
hurry to get to class?
5.

7. TYLER
You know me. Always trying to make
a good first impression. What’s up?
The school bell rings loudly as students begin scrambling to
get to their proper classes. Tyler and Katie take their time
walking towards the halls.
KATIE
(sarcastically)
Just excited for the start of
another super fun year.
TYLER
(laughing)
Tell me about it. I’ve been
thinking of junior year my whole
life.
KATIE
Right? Just old enough for SATs and
college apps, but still too young
for the prom or walking on the
senior bridge. Really the best of
both worlds.
As they talk, the two walk under the mentioned senior bridge.
Seniors look down from above, laughing amongst themselves.
TYLER
What’s your first class?
KATIE
AP English with Patterson.
Tyler gets a quizzical look on his face and looks down at his
own schedule.
KATIE (CONT’D)
Not sure if I’m going to take the
test, but the class looks good on
apps, ya know?
TYLER
Definitely. That’s why I’m taking
it too.
He points down at his schedule. He shares the class with
Katie.
KATIE
Well that’s cool. Greg’s also in
that class.
6.

8. At the mention at that name, Tyler visibly grimaces. Katie
notices and responds despondently.
KATIE (CONT’D)
I know you guys would get along if
you just talked to each other.
Tyler feigns surprise.
TYLER
What did I say? Everyone loves
Greg! Dude was class favorite for a
reason.
Katie sighs.
KATIE
Let’s just get to class. I’d hate
for you to miss that good first
impression you’re always trying to
make.
Tyler chuckles and the two walk down the hall as the school
bell rings again, signaling the start of class.
A beat as the last students make their way to class.
The school halls are empty as one last student, BRIAN SPONSOR
(16, short, frazzled hair) stumbles into the fray. He looks
down at his schedule and up at the mess of hallways before
him. His disgruntled expression indicates he’s lost.
With an eye down at his schedule, Brian walks down the first
hallway he sees.
INT. PHYSICS CLASSROOM - MORNING
Students look up at the teacher, MR. DUGGAR (50s, glasses,
graying hair) with blank expressions. His opening monologue
isn’t getting anyone’s spirits up.
MR. DUGGAR
--is not easy. Physics is the study
of matter. It’s how the universe
behaves. I can tell you in my 30
years of teaching, no subject has
impacted my life more on a daily
basis. My hope is that--
7.

9. The monologue is interrupted as Brian awkwardly steps into
the class. Some students look at him with contempt. Mr.
Duggar raises his eyebrow.
MR. DUGGAR (CONT’D)
Ahh. I was thinking nobody would
willingly want to miss the fun of
physics. You must be--
Mr. Duggar looks at his roll sheet.
MR. DUGGAR (CONT’D)
--Brian? Brian Sponsor?
BRIAN
Yeah, that’s me. Sorry I’m late.
It’s my first day here and I hadn’t
had time to find my classes and--
MR. DUGGAR
Don’t worry about it, Mr. Sponsor.
You’re not the first person to
wander in late on the first day. In
fact, on my first day teaching--
Mr. Duggar gets lost on his tangent as Brian nods and
shuffles towards the rows of desks. The other students don’t
acknowledge him and try to keep their distance.
Brian spots an open desk in the back of the classroom. In the
neighboring desk lies Robert, the jock from the teaser.
Brian sits down and takes an expensive looking laptop out of
his backpack. Robert turns his attention away from Mr. Duggar
and towards the laptop that has suddenly caught his eye.
INT. ENGLISH CLASSROOM - MORNING
Motivational posters and quotes line the walls of the
brightly-lit classroom. The desks are arranged in rows, with
a couch and bean bag lying in wait at the back of the class.
It’s a class with a very modern feel.
LAURA PATTERSON (early 40s, blonde, tall) sits at her desk at
the front of the class. Her attention is preoccupied by
whatever papers she’s gathering on her desk. The students
take the opportunity to talk amongst themselves.
Tyler sits next to Katie and her boyfriend GREG VOWELL (17,
brown hair, all-American look). He keeps to himself as he
keeps an ear on the conversation between Katie and Greg, too
quiet to actually hear.
8.

10. Greg breaks off his conversation with Katie.
GREG
Tyler? You there?
Tyler looks up with disinterest. He plays along.
TYLER
Sorry, I think I’m just already
over school. And we haven’t even
started class yet.
GREG
Yeah, for real.
An awkward pause. Katie steps in.
KATIE
Tyler, how’s the basketball team
looking?
Greg jumps at the chance.
GREG
Oh, yeah. I heard the team is
looking really good this year.
TYLER
I suppose it couldn’t really be any
worse than last year.
GREG
C’mon man. Don’t be so hard on
yourself. Not your fault that the
rest of the team should be on JV.
Tyler rolls his eyes. He doesn’t even look at Greg.
TYLER
If you saw any of our games last
year, you’d know I was just as
responsible for us sucking.
Probably more so.
Another awkward pause. Greg bites his lip as he struggles to
respond.
GREG
Well, ya know, hopefully the
students really turn out this year.
I’d imagine it’s a big help with a
loud home court advantage.
9.

11. TYLER
It is. Makes it hard for people to
show up, though, when even the
class favorite himself won’t go to
the games.
Tyler turns to look at an offended Greg. Katie can only shake
her head.
TYLER (CONT’D)
But hey, thanks for the kind words.
I know you really mean it.
Tyler smiles and leans back into his chair. Mrs. Patterson
stands up and begins her lecture as Greg, confused, stares
down Tyler.
INT. HALLWAY - DAY
The school bell rings again, signaling the end of first
period. Students bustle out of their classrooms and begin to
chatter about their first class impressions.
Tyler exits the classroom, followed by Katie and Greg. Greg
grabs Katie near the door.
GREG
Wait up. We got to talk.
KATIE
Now? My next class is on the other
side of the school.
GREG
Not long. Listen, about Tyler.
Seriously, what’s his problem?
KATIE
Just drop it, Greg. I already have.
Katie turns to leave. Once again Greg stops her and turns her
around. Katie is visibly annoyed.
GREG
No. I’m not going to ‘just drop
it.’ I tried to be nice, like you
said. I tried to be friendly. Tried
to find some common ground.
KATIE
With my help.
10.

12. GREG
Still. He’s the one with the
problem here Katie, not me. Sorry I
can’t be at every basketball game,
as if that’s a requirement of being
class favorite.
KATIE
How many games did you go to last
year?
Greg hears the question, but he’s not sure how to respond.
He’s thrown for a loop.
GREG
Wh-what?
KATIE
How many basketball games did you
go to last year, Greg? Be honest.
Greg pauses as the halls begin to quiet down. Students filter
into their classrooms, leaving Greg and Katie standing
awkwardly outside their English class.
GREG
I...I didn’t go to any.
Katie scoffs and shakes her head. She walks away without
saying bye from a defeated Greg.
Greg waits a beat. He tries to come up with something to say.
GREG (CONT’D)
(yelling)
The team was terrible!
No response from Katie, who is well on her way to class now.
He looks around, realizes that he’s the only one left in the
hall, and walks in the opposite direction of Katie.
INT. DIFFERENT HALLWAY - DAY
Same passing period. Brian again struggles to find his next
class, continuously looking down at the schedule and up at
the room numbers. He’s running out of time.
A large hand grabs his shoulder. Brian turns around to find
Robert behind him, wearing a friendly disposition.
ROBERT
Hey man. You lost?
11.

13. BRIAN
Uh, yeah. But don’t worry about it.
I can find my way around. I
wouldn’t want you to be late
either.
ROBERT
Don’t worry about it. I’m happy to
help.
Robert takes the schedule from Brian’s hand.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
Oh, geography with Curtis, huh?
That’s in B wing, other side of the
school. I can show you if you don’t
know. My next class is over there
too.
BRIAN
Really? Thanks. That would be
really nice.
Brian reaches for his schedule, but Robert keeps it away from
him.
ROBERT
No problem. It’s only a few minutes
before class starts, so we have to
hurry.
The two make their way to the other side of the school with
Robert leading the way. The very last students get into their
classes as the period is about to start.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
So what’s your name again?
BRIAN
Brian. And you?
ROBERT
I’m Robert. Nice to meet you man.
Brian nods and continues to follow. He looks up and sees a
bunch of room numbers with “B.”
BRIAN
Hey, all these rooms that start
with B, aren’t we in the B wing
now?
Robert looks down the halls, looking more like a lookout than
someone looking for a class.
12.

14. ROBERT
Uh, yeah, but this class is in the
far reaches of the school.
The school bell rings.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
This school is sort of crazy like
that. Weird room numbers, weird
class locations. Was it like that
in your old school?
The halls are completely empty now. They should have found
the class by now. Robert keeps moving as the doors in the
halls change from classrooms to closets. It’s darker too.
Brian gets slightly concerned.
BRIAN
Actually, I was homeschooled for
most of my life.
ROBERT
And how was that?
BRIAN
Different than here.
ROBERT
Yeah, I’d imagine it’s much
different.
A pause in the conversation as the two keep walking. The
walls are littered with spare chairs, desks, and other
miscellaneous items. They’re not near classes; it’s a storage
area. Brian’s had enough.
BRIAN
Hey, listen, thanks for helping me
find my class, but it’s pretty late
and I don’t want you to be tardy. I
can find my way from here.
Robert stops moving.
ROBERT
No need. We’re here.
Brian, confused, steps ahead of Robert. In front of him lies
a dirty, dark wall. He turns back around to face Robert. Too
late he realizes he’s cornered.
BRIAN
What is this?
13.

15. ROBERT
This is the part where you give me
that laptop.
Robert reaches for the backpack. Brian steps back.
BRIAN
What the hell? No. I’m not giving
you anything.
Brian tries to sidestep Robert, but he pushes him back
against the wall.
ROBERT
Don’t try to play tough. Give me
the laptop. Now.
BRIAN
The hell are you talking about?
When the principal hears about this-
Robert doesn’t waste anymore time. He punches Brian in the
stomach, sending him to the ground. Brian coughs and tries to
catch his breath. Robert viciously grabs the backpack.
Brian, finding strength, fights back. It’s no use. Robert
again punches Brian in the gut for the finishing blow. Weak,
Brian doesn’t fight back as Robert lifts the backpack (and
Brian) off the ground and takes it for himself.
ROBERT
The principal isn’t going to hear
about this, because if she does,
you’re going to have a lot more to
worry about than a few bruised
ribs. Got it?
Brian, still reeling with his hands on his stomach, gives him
a slight nod. Robert smiles.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
Good. I’m glad we agree.
Robert starts to walk away. He stops as he reaches into his
pocket and pulls out Brian’s crumpled schedule. He turns
around and throws it at him.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
Here, I’d hate for you to be late.
Brian barely acknowledges the crumpled schedule before him.
He props himself up against the wall, still in a great deal
of pain.
14.

16. Robert walks away.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
See you tomorrow!
END ACT ONE
*************************************************************
In the above, the teaser uses superimposed text rather than
voice over. Also Greg does something that’s more malicious
than just missing basketball games that will be addressed
later.
ACT TWO
INT. ENGINEERING CLASS - DAY
An older, large classroom. Looks a bit like a souped up
garage. Different robotics cover the tables as posters of
scientists line the walls.
An old teacher, MR. CROSS (60s, frizzy white hair), addresses
his class of disinterested students.
MR. CROSS
This will be my forty-first year
teaching this advanced engineering
course. If there’s one thing I’ve
learned in my time it’s how to
spice up the class with jokes--
ALAN MIDDLETON (17, short, burly build) plays with his pencil
as his teacher softly speaks. He’s fading out, more
interested in anything other than what Mr. Cross is saying.
MR. CROSS (CONT’D)
--so he leans in and says, ‘You and
I would add up better than a
Riemann sum.’ I always thought that
one was--
Mr. Cross is interrupted as Brian enters the classroom, late
once again. Brian’s entrance catches the attention of Alan,
who looks up from his table.
A beat.
Mr. Cross breaks the silence.
15.

17. MR. CROSS (CONT’D)
Excuse me, are you in the right
class?
Brian tentatively hands him his crumpled schedule. Alan
observes the situation with an uneasiness about him.
BRIAN
That’s what it says here.
MR. CROSS
That it does. Welcome to Advanced
Engineering and Robotics, Mr.
Prosper. Feel free to take a seat
anywhere.
Brian nods and takes back his schedule. He gingerly
approaches the rows of desks and takes one of the many open
seats in the first row.
Alan, still not listening to Mr. Cross, stares down Alan.
INT. CAFETERIA - DAY
Mayhem. Loud. The school’s cafeteria is filled with busy
students as friends try to save spots in line while others
look for tables to sit at. There’s already been one incident
of spilled food and it won’t be the last.
Tyler sits down with his food at a lone table, away from the
chaos of the first lunch day. Seconds later, Alan joins him,
sitting across from Tyler.
ALAN
Unbelievable. It’s like a zoo,
maybe a bit dirtier.
TYLER
At least we were able to get a
spot. I sat next to Peter Harris my
entire freshman year.
ALAN
‘Puke City’ Peter?
TYLER
(laughing)
Yeah. I was there when he earned
that nickname too. I didn’t mean to
stay, but I sat by him the first
day and felt bad about leaving him.
16.

18. ALAN
Noble.
TYLER
Some might say the noblest.
A beat as the two begin to dig into their food.
ALAN
So, got any, uh, classes with
Katie?
TYLER
Yeah, just one. AP English with
Patterson.
ALAN
(chewing)
Oh, that’ll be fun. I heard there’s
lots of group projects in that
class.
TYLER
Yeah. Too bad Greg’s in the class
too, though.
Alan smirks.
TYLER (CONT’D)
What?
Alan looks up, feigning surprise.
ALAN
Nothing. Nothing at all. Nothing
that we haven’t ever talked about
before.
Tyler frowns.
TYLER
I’m telling you man, that dude’s
not right for her.
ALAN
Would any guy be right for her?
Besides you, I’m assuming.
TYLER
Don’t go there. You know Greg’s
fake as hell. Says one thing, does
another. Can’t trust a word he
says.
17.

19. ALAN
Then don’t. Look, you know I’m not
a big fan of his either, but, and I
don’t mean to offend, but you’re
sounding sorta jealous again.
TYLER
Yeah, OK, you’re right. I admit it.
But think about it, man. The guy
says the right things, becomes the
‘face’ of our class--
ALAN
Dates Katie.
TYLER
--...dates Katie, and then when
he’s got it all, doesn’t do
anything that he promised. And it’s
not like he’s the principal or
someone with real responsibilities.
How about you just don’t talk about
the dangers of alcohol one day and
then get drunk off your ass that
weekend?
Alan stares back at Tyler, slight smile on his face. He’s
finished his meal.
ALAN
You done?
It’s Tyler’s time to smirk.
TYLER
Yes, I’m sorry dear. How has your
day been?
ALAN
Doesn’t sound like it’s been nearly
as exciting. Classes are
boring...did you hear about the new
kid who keeps showing up late?
Tyler shakes his head and takes another bite.
ALAN (CONT’D)
Yeah, apparently this kid just
doesn’t have a clue where he’s
going. He came into my engineering
class, like, ten minutes late. I
feel kind of bad for him.
18.

20. TYLER
He’ll figure it out. It is a big
school.
ALAN
Yeah. But it was weird. He didn’t
have any supplies with him.
TYLER
Well, I lose my pencil sometimes
too.
ALAN
No, I mean he didn’t have any
supplies. At all. No backpack, no
paper, nothing. Just his schedule.
Tyler looks up, confused.
ALAN (CONT’D)
It was really weird. And he didn’t
say anything to anyone. Super shy.
TYLER
Yikes. I guess you never know what
you’re gonna get on your first day.
The school bell rings, signaling the next passing period.
Tyler and Alan stand and grab their trays.
ALAN
I guess. I don’t know. I just can’t
shake it. Nobody’s stupid enough to
not bring a backpack on the first
day of class.
TYLER
Sounds like a chance for you to
make a new friend.
ALAN
(smiling)
Thanks dad.
INT. HISTORY CLASSROOM - DAY
Alan walks into class and takes a seat in the second row. He
pulls out a notebook and a pencil.
The school bell rings.
Seconds later, Brian walks into class, again without a
backpack.
19.

21. He looks around at the clock, the teacher MRS. FRENCH (50s,
brown hair) and, noticing that he’s actually on time, has a
sigh of relief and takes a seat next to Alan.
Alan notices.
Mrs. French stands up in front of the class.
MRS. FRENCH
Good afternoon, class. My name is
Mrs. French. Before we get started,
I’d like everyone to take out a
piece of paper and pencil.
Alan looks down, paper and pencil in hand. He moves his
glance to Brian, who’s awkwardly looking around the room.
Their eyes meet.
ALAN
Hey man, you need a paper and
pencil?
BRIAN
Yeah, that’d be great. I left my
backpack at home.
ALAN
No problem.
Alan rips out a piece of paper from his notebook and hands
him a spare pencil.
ALAN (CONT’D)
What’s your name, man?
Alan extends his hand. Brian reciprocates.
BRIAN
Brian.
ALAN
Alan. Nice to meet you.
Brian leans back with suspicion. He’s heard this before.
INT. HALLWAY - DAY
Alan and Brian walk through the halls, immersed in
conversation.
ALAN
So where’s your next class?
20.

22. Brian peers down at his schedule.
BRIAN
It’s, uh, English. With Patterson.
ALAN
I can point it out if you’d like.
Brian slows his walk, recoiling ever so slightly. Alan
notices.
BRIAN
That’s alright. I can find it
myself.
Alan stops him.
ALAN
You OK, man? I mean, I know we just
met, so you don’t need to tell me
your life story. It’s just--
A pause as Brian blankly stares back.
ALAN (CONT’D)
--I’ve seen this sort of thing
before.
Brian squints his eyes, trying to show a puzzled look on his
face.
BRIAN
What sort of thing?
Alan sees right through it.
ALAN
Just, the way you’re acting. I’m in
that engineering class with you
earlier. I could sort of see it
there too. You seem like a smart
guy, Brian. I don’t think you’d
forget to bring anything on the
first day of school.
BRIAN
What are you saying?
ALAN
Did someone take your stuff?
Brian grimaces. The gig is up, but he still hesitates. Alan’s
demeanor gets more serious. The halls are emptying out.
21.

23. ALAN (CONT’D)
Look, you can tell me. I don’t
appreciate it when people are taken
advantage of.
Brian tries to keep quiet, but sighs as he breaks.
BRIAN
Do you know a big kid named Robert?
Alan’s mood immediately changes. He squints his eyes a bit
and frowns.
ALAN
Yeah, I know that douchebag. The
guy’s got a terrible reputation.
BRIAN
Yeah, well, you can guess the end
result. Basically he cornered me,
punched me, and took my backpack
because he liked my laptop. It was
like out of a movie.
ALAN
That piece of-
The school bell rings. Class has started.
BRIAN
He said if I told anyone that he’d
hurt me more, so...
ALAN
Don’t worry about that. I’ll take
care of it. I’ll get your stuff
back.
BRIAN
Can’t we just tell the teachers or
something?
Alan shakes his head.
ALAN
It’s better to do it this way. This
isn’t the first thing Robert’s
done, but his family are big
boosters for the football program,
so the school usually lets him off
with a slap on the wrist.
Alan pulls out his phone.
22.

24. ALAN (CONT’D)
And then he finds out you snitched
and comes looking for you. No. I’ll
take care of it myself. I’m done
with people pulling stuff like
this.
Alan hands Brian his phone.
ALAN (CONT’D)
Give me your number. I’ll let you
know when I get your stuff back.
BRIAN
And how are you going to do that?
ALAN
I have my ways. I promise you
you’ll get your stuff back.
INT. BASKETBALL GYM - DAY
It’s the end of the school day. The basketball team practices
their fundamentals to get themselves ready for the season.
Tyler, one of the members of the team, starts hitting a
couple three point shots. The rest of his TEAMMATES slow down
to watch.
He hits one.
TEAMMATES
Oh!
Another.
TEAMMATES (CONT’D)
OHHH!!
Another. The team gets louder.
TEAMMATES (CONT’D)
AHHHHHH!!! THE HUMANITY!!
This continues as the team gets even louder and rowdier the
more shots Tyler hits. Eventually he misses after seven in a
row. His teammates surround and celebrate with him.
COACH KENT (40s, balding) blows his whistle.
23.

25. COACH KENT
Now that seems like a good way to
end practice. That’s all for today,
boys. Good work.
Coach Kent approaches Tyler.
COACH KENT (CONT’D)
Great shooting, Tyler. Looks like
you’ve been working hard this
offseason.
TYLER
Thanks, coach. Yeah, just doing the
little things to get better.
COACH KENT
I can see that. Keep shooting like
that and we’ll probably see you
starting for varsity this year.
Great work today.
TYLER
I appreciate that, coach.
Coach Kent pats Tyler on the shoulder and leaves. Two other
players, DARRELL (17, skinny) and BENNETT (18, stout)
approach Tyler.
DARRELL
Hey McGui, you doing anything this
weekend?
TYLER
Nothing planned, I think. What’s
up?
BENNETT
Amy’s throwing a party at her
house. I think her parents are
going to be out of town. Should be
a good time. You in?
Tyler palms the basketball and gives it some thought.
TYLER
Uh... yeah. Yeah, I think I can
make an appearance.
Darrell and Bennett smile back.
BENNETT
Cool. I’ll let you know when I hear
more.
24.

26. Bennett gives him a pat on the shoulder and leaves. Darrell
grabs the ball out of Tyler’s hand and shoots a wild shot.
Swish.
DARRELL
Ah! Looks like some of your skill
rubbed off on the ball. I’ll see
you around.
Darrell heads off as the ball rolls back to Tyler. He picks
it up, pauses, and continues shooting.
INT. OUTSIDE LOCKER ROOM - MIDDAY
Players from various sports are exiting out the locker room
door. Snippets of athletic feats can be heard through the
bustle of the crowd.
Tyler exits, his backpack over shoulder and his car keys in
hand. Outside the door, not twenty feet away, lies Alan. He
looks up to Tyler.
TYLER
(sarcastically)
Sorry sir, this locker room is
strictly for athletes only. No
mathletes allowed.
Alan doesn’t respond to the joke.
ALAN
I’m not here for you.
Tyler stops. Laughing athletes walk by, oblivious to the
situation.
Tyler frowns.
TYLER
What are you doing here, Alan?
ALAN
Don’t worry about it. It doesn’t
concern you.
TYLER
I think every time you’re about to
do something stupid it concerns me.
I can’t always be there to protect
you, bro.
25.

27. Alan looks up with contempt. We haven’t seen him like this
before. Tyler doesn’t flinch.
ALAN
I don’t need your protection. I’m
17. I can make my own decisions. I
can deal with the consequences.
TYLER
Jesus, man. You’re not a superhero.
I don’t even know what you’re doing
but you’re clearly not thinking
straight.
A beat.
TYLER (CONT’D)
...are you?
Alan’s temper flares.
ALAN
God, dude, no! I told you, I’ve
been off that stuff for years. Just
let me do what I need to do. No
need to get involved. Please.
Tyler looks him over and shrugs. More oblivious people
continue to walk by.
TYLER
Fine. I can’t stop you, you know
that. Just, please, don’t do
anything too hasty. Think before
you act.
Alan nods his head as Tyler leaves him behind.
INT. OUTSIDE LOCKER ROOM - 10 MINS LATER
Alan, alone and impatient, continues to wait outside the
locker room. His breathing is getting heavier. He taps his
foot. The wait is agonizing.
Suddenly, Robert exits the locker room holding Brian’s
backpack. He’s alone. Alan looks up and immediately walks
towards him. Robert doesn’t notice until Alan stops him.
ALAN
Hey, Robert. I believe you have
something there that’s not yours.
26.

28. Robert looks at Alan quizzically. He begins to look over and
‘search’ himself.
ROBERT
(laughing)
Nope, this letterman is definitely
mine. Got my name and everything.
Thanks for looking out for me
though, officer.
Robert attempts to get by, but Alan gets in his way again.
Robert gets slightly agitated.
ALAN
No, dumbass. The backpack. Give it
here and that will be the end of
it.
Robert reacts quickly and pins Alan to the wall. Alan looks
on with shock. He can’t believe he was stopped so fast.
ROBERT
Real tough guy, huh? Maybe I could
knock out some teeth and then we’ll
see who’s still got something to
say?
Robert holds him there as Alan struggles. Then, suddenly, he
laughs and lets him go. Alan drops to the ground, catching
his breath.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
But you’re just too funny. Go cry
to someone else.
Robert starts walking away. He doesn’t get three steps before
Alan comes from behind and throws a punch. Again, Robert
reacts quickly, dodging the punch and countering with his own
punch to Alan’s jaw. Alan goes straight down.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
(laughing)
Is that how it is? Don’t get your
way so you resort to cheap shots?
Buddy, you’re lucky I’m in such a
good mood. Try that again and next
time your ego won’t be the only
thing broken. You’re not worth the
effort today.
Robert starts walking away, leaving Alan reeling on the
ground. He hasn’t moved.
27.

29. ROBERT (CONT’D)
Oh, and I’ve always had this
backpack, dumbass.
Robert laughs his way down the hall. Alan remains on the
ground, nursing the cut on the side of his face. His breaths
are heavy and he starts to tear up just a bit.
Two more students walk down the hall in friendly
conversation. The notice Alan, don’t acknowledge him and,
while maintaining their conversation, leave him on the
ground.
Alan has hit rock bottom.
*************************************************************
In Act Two, I’d make Alan a bit weirder. He’s someone that is
a little unstable and someone that you wouldn’t be surprised
does the things he does. I’d make Brian more skiddish with
Alan after his interaction with Robert and sell that he’s OK
with Alan not helping him. Alan still learns it was Robert,
either through Brian or by surmising it himself. I’d shorten
the Darrell and Bennett dialogue and cut out Robert’s long
line of dialogue at the end too.
ACT THREE
EXT. SCHOOL PARKING LOT - MIDDAY
Tyler walks through the empty parking lot. He joins a few
teachers as one of the last to leave school grounds.
INT. CAR - MIDDAY
Tyler keeps his eyes on the road. The car ride is quiet. No
music. His thoughts are elsewhere.
EXT. TYLER’S HOUSE - MIDDAY
Tyler parks the car outside his house on the street. The
house is your typical suburban residence. Small, lawn needs
to be mowed, low hanging fence lining the backyard. It looks
like nobody has been home since Tyler left for school.
28.

30. INT. TYLER’S HOUSE - MIDDAY
Tyler puts his backpack down and makes his way to the
kitchen. Lights are out throughout the house. He starts
cooking: rice, eggs, vegetables. Fried rice is on the menu.
He starts making the table for two. With everything cooking,
he pulls out his phone and makes a call.
It rings for a bit as he mixes in the vegetables. Finally,
someone picks up.
KATIE (V.O.)
Hello?
TYLER
Hey Katie. You doing anything?
KATIE (V.O.)
No. Alexis was over, but she just
left. What’s up?
TYLER
Nothing much. Just wondering if you
wanted to come over and hang for a
bit.
Tyler wedges the phone between his shoulder and cheek as he
puts the silverware on the table.
KATIE
Yeah, that sounds fun. I wouldn’t
mind beating you in Mario Kart
again. Should I come now?
TYLER
Yeah, just come whenever.
KATIE
OK. I’ll be over in a bit. See you
soon.
TYLER
Peace.
Tyler hangs up and puts the phone in his pocket. The table is
set and dinner is almost done.
A door opens and the security system beeps.
Tyler’s dad, CHARLES MCGUIRE (late 40s, gruff, looks older
than he is) enters the room through the garage.
29.

31. TYLER (CONT’D)
Hey, dad.
His dad smiles and nods. He’s had a long day. He goes into
his room and closes the door.
Tyler goes back to the fried rice and fixes himself two
plates, putting them down at the kitchen table. He grabs
himself a glass of water and sits down as his dad comes back,
grabs a beer from the fridge, and joins him at the table.
Charles gestures at the food.
CHARLES
Looks great.
TYLER
Thanks. Last time I didn’t use
enough soy sauce, so hopefully this
tastes a bit better.
CHARLES
I’ll let you know.
Charles takes in a big spoonful. As Tyler helps himself,
Charles gives him a smile and thumbs up in between chews.
CHARLES (CONT’D)
I think you’ve outdone yourself.
TYLER
Appreciate it. Yeah, it’s actually
better than I thought.
A long beat as the two eat in relative silence.
CHARLES
So, I wanted to surprise you, but I
was able to get every other Friday
off, so I should be able to see
more of your basketball games this
year.
TYLER
Oh?
CHARLES
Yeah, I’ll have to make up the
hours elsewhere, but I think it’s
worth it.
He smiles. Tyler smiles back.
30.

32. TYLER
Yeah, coach is pretty happy with
how things are going. We should be
much better this year.
CHARLES
Did that camp teach you a new thing
or two this summer?
Tyler finishes chewing.
TYLER
Yeah, I think so. My form’s a lot
better. Still need to break down in
man to man though. I drift too
much.
CHARLES
That’ll come with experience. I
know it did for me.
Another long beat.
CHARLES (CONT’D)
So, uh, how was school today?
TYLER
It was alright. Nothing too cra--
A knock on the door interrupts their conversation.
TYLER (CONT’D)
Oh, sorry dad, I invited Katie
over.
Tyler gets up and puts his plate in the sink.
TYLER (CONT’D)
There’s more in the pan if you want
any.
CHARLES
Don’t worry, I’ll need lunch
tomorrow.
Tyler nods and goes to the door. He opens it and ushers Katie
in.
TYLER
Hey. Sorry, we were just finishing
up dinner.
KATIE
Oh, I could’ve waited a bit longer.
31.

33. TYLER
Oh no, you’re fine. We’re done.
They walk into the kitchen. Katie notices Charles and gives
him a wave.
KATIE
Hey, Mr. McGuire. How are you?
CHARLES
Doing fine, Katie. Yourself?
KATIE
Oh you know, just school and tests
and stuff. The usual.
Tyler gestures Katie upstairs.
TYLER
Dad, there’s more rice in the pan
if you want any.
CHARLES
Don’t worry, I need lunch tomorrow.
You two have fun.
Tyler and Katie make their way out of the kitchen and go
upstairs. Charles is left eating in the kitchen, alone.
INT. TYLER’S ROOM - EVENING
Tyler and Katie sit on the floor of the tiny bedroom playing
video games. Their eyes are on the television, even if their
focus is elsewhere.
KATIE
--and then he turns to me and says,
‘Sometimes I think animals are the
only ones who understand me.’
TYLER
You really seem to attract the best
people.
Katie laughs.
KATIE
I’m being serious! If this was just
the first day, I don’t know if I
can make it the whole year.
TYLER
Why don’t you just drop it?
32.

34. KATIE
Drop AP Environmental Science? I
would if there were another AP
class I could take at the time.
Their eyes remain focused on the television, their hands
firmly playing on the controllers.
TYLER
Real talk. Are colleges really
going to read your app and say,
“This girl didn’t take AP Viro, she
doesn’t belong here.”?
KATIE
(smirking)
Yeah, well, enjoy Tech.
Tyler grins.
TYLER
I will. Enjoy second.
He stands up in a victory pose as his phone starts buzzing.
Tyler answers it.
TYLER (CONT’D)
What’s up, man?
Katie brings her controller down.
KATIE
Congrats. That’s the first time
you’ve won since ‘Nam. Rematch.
Tyler doesn’t respond to her. He grows concerned.
TYLER
(into the phone)
Wait, what?
INT. TYLER’S HOUSE - EVENING
Tyler runs down the stairs and opens the door. Waiting for
him is a disheveled Alan. His hair is all messed up and he’s
got the beginnings of a bruise on his face.
Tyler looks at him in disbelief.
33.

35. INT. TYLER’S ROOM - EVENING
The video games have stopped. Alan sits on the bed as Katie
sits on a bean bag and Tyler stands against the closet.
They’re listening to Alan’s story intensely.
ALAN
And he just, punched me. I mean, I
know he’s bigger than me, but I
didn’t think it would come to that.
TYLER
Jesus, Alan. What did I tell you?
What did I specifically tell you
not to do?
KATIE
C’mon Tyler...
Tyler is visibly frustrated. He cuts off Katie.
TYLER
No, it’s always something with you,
Alan. Always. I can’t go one
semester without you doing...
something.
ALAN
(sarcastically)
Sorry for inconveniencing you.
TYLER
This isn’t about me, man. You just
got your ass beat for trying to
play hero on a hunch and then you
come to me and want me to pick up
the pieces? What am I supposed to
say?
A beat.
ALAN
How about, ‘You’re right, Alan. I’m
glad you stood up for yourself. As
your best friend, I’ll help you
out.’?
TYLER
Yeah, if you didn’t have a history
with this.
Tyler sighs.
34.

36. KATIE
This isn’t new for Robert, though.
You know that Tyler.
TYLER
The guy’s a terrible person. So?
Sounds like someone I’d go out of
my way to avoid, not someone I’d
pick a fight with.
Alan’s voice raises.
ALAN
I didn’t go to pick a fight. I told
you, I went to get that backpack--
TYLER
For someone you just met?
ALAN
Does it matter? If someone doesn’t
protect them, who will? What if it
was someone you knew?
TYLER
That’s different.
ALAN
Oh, yeah?
Alan stares him down, making sure to show his bruises. Tyler
sighs. He gets the message.
TYLER
Look, I’ll go talk to Robert, OK?
ALAN
And then what? Just wait until he
does this sort of thing again?
TYLER
I mean, maybe. What, you want me to
fight him?
ALAN
It’s just not fair.
Tyler shakes his head.
TYLER
Don’t get me started on fairness.
Yeah, life sucks sometimes.
35.
(MORE)

37. You just have to roll with the
punches, man. And that doesn’t mean
punching back.
KATIE
What if it does?
TYLER
What?
Tyler looks at her quizzically. Katie chooses her words
carefully.
KATIE
I mean, this isn’t the first time
this has happened. Robert’s just
the latest. Are we supposed to just
stand by and let this continue?
TYLER
What else are we going to do? Bully
the bullies?
KATIE
It could be a start.
Tyler shakes his head again. This isn’t what he expected to
hear.
KATIE (CONT’D)
You know what, Tyler? Yeah, life’s
unfair. Anyone with eyes can see
that. But does that mean we can’t
do anything about it? Robert’s
violent and he’s gotten away with
it since before high school.
Katie gestures to Alan.
KATIE (CONT’D)
And now your best friend comes to
you, beaten up by this guy, and
you’re just going to let it slide?
Going to let him get away with it,
because maybe Alan shouldn’t have
talked to him in the first place?
TYLER
It’s more complicated than that.
KATIE
Not from what I can see. Sometimes
talking isn’t enough. Robert’s done
worse than this.
36.
TYLER (CONT'D)
(MORE)

38. Someone should’ve done something
before, but someone can do
something now.
A beat.
Tyler starts, but pauses. He’s not sure exactly how to
respond. Alan sports a subtle grin.
Tyler sits down.
TYLER
So... OK. Say we teach Robert a
lesson. Say we beat him up for what
he did to Alan--
ALAN
And Brian. And, really, everyone
he’s ever hurt.
TYLER
And show everyone that if you don’t
get your way, just resort to
violence?
ALAN
It’s not about getting your way.
It’s about righting wrongs. It’s
about what’s fair. We see it. We
can be the ones to make things
right.
TYLER
And beating someone up makes things
right?
ALAN
If that someone makes a living
beating and bullying others, hell
yes.
Tyler clenches his jaw and looks towards Alan and Katie. He’s
remaining silent. For now.
ALAN (CONT’D)
And it doesn’t have to stop there.
Robert’s just the first. We see
stuff every day in school.
Injustices, unfairness--
Tyler stands up, seething.
37.
KATIE (CONT'D)

39. TYLER
Jesus, Alan! I get it! I get that
life’s not fair! I get that bad
things happen! I get the concept. I
don’t need you to come in here and
lay it out for me like I live a
perfect life. You’re talking to the
guy who’s mom got hit by a drunk
driver. You’re talking to the guy
who has to get himself up for
school every morning and make sure
he gets home in time to cook his
dad dinner every night. Sorry that
you got your ass kicked trying to
be a hero, but I know that life’s
not fair, OK? I live it.
A long pause as Alan and Katie stare at Tyler. They have no
response. Tyler calms his breathing and sits back down.
TYLER (CONT’D)
Look, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean
that. I just lost my cool. Tomorrow
I’ll go to talk to Robert, OK? I
promise.
He looks towards Alan, who pauses and then approvingly nods
his head.
TYLER (CONT’D)
I’ll always have your back, bro.
Always.
INT. TYLER’S HOUSE - EVENING
Tyler sees his two guests out. Alan and Tyler share a
handshake and bro hug. Alan leaves.
Tyler stops Katie at the door.
TYLER
Hey, about what I said. Sorry if it
was, uh, over the top. I was just
tired of hearing the same thing
over and over again. I really
appreciate you coming over.
KATIE
Yeah, I know. Don’t worry about it.
It was a pretty, eh, unique
situation.
They hug and she turns to leave.
38.

40. TYLER
You know if you need anything you
can come to me, right?
Katie smiles and nods.
KATIE
I know.
Tyler nods back and waves goodbye before closing the door.
INT. TYLER’S ROOM - EVENING
Tyler sits at his desk on his computer. The ceiling fan
buzzes to soften the silence of the room. The video game is
still on from before.
He surfs the website FriendLink. With squinting eyes and a
hand resting on his chin, he cycles through pictures of
Katie. It’s compassionate, but overbearing. He loves her.
He comes to one with her and Greg and pauses. He leans back
in his chair and stares up at the ceiling for a beat. The
humming of the fan gets louder. He comes back to the computer
and clicking on Greg’s profile.
He cycles through Greg’s pictures, slower than he did with
Katie. He only gets through a couple. The fan is prominent
now.
He pauses, again, and this time types in Robert’s name into
the search bar. He pulls up Robert’s profile. He leans in
close and stares at the picture looking back at him: a happy
Robert flexing his muscles for the camera. The fan is
deafening as Tyler continues to stare it down.
INT. SCHOOL LOCKER ROOM - DAY
The next day. It’s the same setup as the teaser, sans the
superimposed text and voice overs. Practice is over and the
sound of students emptying out echoes across the halls.
Robert approaches his locker and opens it up. He pulls out
his letterman jacket and Brian’s backpack. He sets the
backpack down as he pulls on the jacket.
Robert slams his locker door shut, revealing the Masked
Assailant staring him down on the other side of the door. His
face is covered with a ski mask and he’s clad in all black.
Robert jumps back.
39.

41. ROBERT
(Startled)
What the hell?
The Masked Assailant reacts quickly. He pushes Robert into
the lockers. Robert struggles to fight back, attempting to
pull the mask off.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
Get off of me! Who are you? Too
scared to show your face, coward?
The Masked Assailant struggles against the stronger Robert as
he nearly pulls up his mask. With his free hand, the
Assailant punches Robert in the ribs. Robert goes down.
Robert gasps for breath as he rolls down the lockers. He
looks up at his attacker.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
What do you want?
The Masked Assailant responds with a swift punch across
Robert’s face, sending him sprawling. Robert grabs his
bleeding nose, groaning in pain.
The Masked Assailant spots Brian’s backpack and grabs it. He
starts running down the hall and exits out the door, leaving
Robert bruised and bleeding on the ground.
EXT. PARKING LOT - DAY
The Masked Assailant turns a corner out the door. He briefly
looks back to make sure he’s not being followed, then looks
across the parking lot to make sure the coast is clear.
Satisfied, he takes off running to the nearest parked car, a
‘98 Honda.
INT. CAR - DAY
Once safely inside the car, the Assailant takes off his mask
to reveal Tyler, breathing heavily and suffering from a
slight bit of shock. He puts the car into drive and exits the
parking lot as quickly as he can.
END ACT THREE
*************************************************************
I wouldn’t change a whole lot to Act 3. I’d write the reveal
a bit differently, maybe preventing Tyler and Alan from
“making up,” but I think the audience will put it together
that Tyler is the attacker. I’d also trim Tyler’s outburst to
Alan and clean up some of the dialogue in that whole scene.
40.

42. ACT FOUR
INT. ALAN’S BEDROOM - EVENING
Dirty laundry covers the carpeted floor. Old bowls of cereal
lie stacked on the night stand by the bed. A ragged poster of
Batman hangs from an otherwise barren wall.
Alan walks in, carrying bottled water. He sits down at his
desk and opens his laptop.
Right behind him is Brian. He stands around the room before
finding a spot on the bed.
ALAN
You sure you don’t want anything?
BRIAN
No thanks, I’m good.
Alan opens FriendLink and takes a drink. His eyes squint at
the brightly-lit screen. He’s confused.
ALAN
The hell?
He continues to scroll down the page.
ALAN (CONT’D)
Hey, come check this out.
Alan beckons Brian over as his phone rings. He answers while
getting up from the desk, giving Brian a chance to look.
ALAN (CONT’D)
Hello?
INT. DOORWAY - EVENING
Alan opens the door, revealing Tyler, looking disheveled.
He’s still dressed in all-black, carrying Brian’s backpack.
Alan notices the backpack and smiles.
ALAN
No way.
INT. ALAN’S BEDROOM - EVENING
The two enter the room in a rush. Brian is now seated at the
desk, reading the screen intently.
41.

43. ALAN
(to Tyler)
You won’t believe what they’re
saying online.
TYLER
It’s online?
Tyler and Brian see each other for the first time. Alan is
giddy.
ALAN
Tyler, this is Brian. He’s the kid
who started this whole thing.
BRIAN
Well, I don’t know if I’d say that.
Tyler and Brian shake hands.
TYLER
It’s nice to meet you, man.
Tyler sheepishly looks down at the backpack in his hands.
TYLER (CONT’D)
I, uh, think this belongs to you.
Tyler hands over the backpack. Brian accepts and looks
quickly through it, making sure everything is there. He pulls
out his laptop and has a sigh of relief.
BRIAN
Thank you. Seriously, thank you so
much.
Tyler nods. He turns to Alan.
TYLER
So what are they saying?
ALAN
People are happy. They’re calling
you a hero.
TYLER
A hero?
ALAN
Well, paraphrasing. And it doesn’t
look they know it’s you
specifically. But look at this.
Alan shows Tyler the screen. He reads from the comments.
42.

44. ALAN (CONT’D)
‘He’s not the nicest guy. Honestly,
I’d say he had it coming.’
Tyler scans the page as Alan continues.
ALAN (CONT’D)
They’re all like this.
BRIAN
Not all.
Brian points out another comment.
BRIAN (CONT’D)
‘I’m always astonished by how far
people are willing to go to hurt
others.’
ALAN
OK, sure, some people don’t agree
with the means, but most people are
in support.
Tyler finishes reading and looks up at Alan.
TYLER
What are you saying?
ALAN
I’m saying what I said last night.
Think about it, Tyler. Robert was a
bully and got what was coming to
him. But he’s only one. There could
be hundreds like him.
BRIAN
Sure, but don’t you think you’re
just escalating the problem without
really solving anything?
Alan looks towards Brian. He’s confused.
ALAN
What? You got your stuff back,
didn’t you?
BRIAN
Well, yeah, but Robert was a bad
guy. What he did was wrong, but
even he is getting some sympathy
from people. Everyone’s problems
aren’t going to be so black and
white.
43.

45. ALAN
Well, sorry that you’re feeling
sorry for the bully who stole your
backpack and beat you up. I don’t
think other people would have as
much pity for those hurting them.
BRIAN
I’m not saying I feel sorry for
Robert and I’m glad I got my stuff
back. I guess--
Brian hesitates. He chooses his words carefully.
BRIAN (CONT’D)
--I just, I don’t know, I don’t
think it’s smart to pick and choose
what’s fair and then also be the
one to correct it.
ALAN
We’ll be judge of that.
BRIAN
That’s exactly why I don’t think--
Tyler steps up.
TYLER
Brian’s right, Alan.
Alan looks towards Tyler. A hint of uneasiness lingers
between the two.
ALAN
Why? Have you seen what people are
saying? We have a chance to make a
difference. To help people!
TYLER
Be reasonable, man. Nobody liked
Robert. I didn’t like Robert and he
never even bothered me. I did what
I did because I was tired of the
way he treated people, like you
two, and felt like doing something
about it. That’s it. One and done.
Tyler gets up and heads to the door.
TYLER (CONT’D)
Do you really think people are
going to reach out to us with their
problems anyway?
44.

46. Tyler turns his back to leave. Alan hardens up. His voice
gets stern.
ALAN
Yeah, I do. If we extend our hand,
people will respond. Because that’s
what people in need do, Tyler. They
look for help.
Tyler stops at the doorway. He turns to face Alan.
TYLER
Well then Alan, by all means, go do
it. You’re a smart guy. Help as
many people as you can. I’m just
going to keep myself out of it.
Tyler exits. Alan turns back to his computer and begins
typing away. Brian looks around the room, keeping silent.
INT. TEACHER’S LOUNGE - EARLY MORNING
Laura Patterson sits in a morning administration meeting. Her
fellow TEACHERS exist in various states between asleep and
barely awake as the faculty find their seats. It’s too early.
Laura is handling it better than her peers. With coffee in
hand, she scans the room. Nobody is in the mood to talk.
Entering from the side door is principal DEBBIE JACKSON
(looking every bit of her 58 years old). She motions for the
silent crowd to settle down, a habit.
DEBBIE
Thank you all for meeting this
early. I apologize that we had to
come together under such
circumstances, but as some of you
may have heard, one of our students
was attacked yesterday after school
in the locker room. Robert Paulsen.
Laura’s interest is piqued. Only a handful of her fellow
peers seem to be as intrigued.
DEBBIE (CONT’D)
As the teachers for the majority of
the upperclassmen, I felt it was
important to bring this to your
attention. Robert’s told us that
his attacker was a tall student,
but he was wearing all black and a
ski mask. He couldn’t see his face.
45.

47. The coffee is kicking in for Laura. She stands up in her
seat. Debbie’s voice continues to ring throughout.
DEBBIE (CONT’D)
I would like to remind you all that
we value the safety of our students
and we have a strict no-tolerance
policy against these sorts of
actions. If any of you learn any
new information, please come
forward.
Laura raises her hand. Debbie, slightly confused, gestures at
her.
LAURA
What you’re saying is good and all
and I agree with it, but where was
this meeting when Robert was the
attacker, not the victim?
Laura gestures to her fellow teachers, more of whom are
becoming interested.
LAURA (CONT’D)
All of us have heard about Robert’s
past. I mean, some of us have seen
it. Not saying that we shouldn’t
care when Robert is the victim, but
I’m just curious why we’re having
this conversation now?
Debbie remains firm. Her demeanor and voice doesn’t change.
DEBBIE
As I said before, the safety of all
our students is our number one
priority. If a student can’t feel
safe at school, we’ve failed our
job. Every case of violence we see
is received and treated with the
same attitude, Mrs. Patterson. I
can assure you of that.
Laura looks disapprovingly at Debbie. She leans back in her
chair.
INT. CLASSROOM - MORNING
The school bell rings. The students in Mrs. Patterson’s
English class file in. Sitting together again are Tyler,
Katie, and Greg.
46.

48. Mrs. Patterson addresses the class.
LAURA
Class, before we get to our lesson
today, I need to talk about an
incident that happened yesterday,
something that most of you have
probably heard about already.
The class listens intently. Tyler tries to blend in as he
looks in Katie’s direction. She’s totally focused.
LAURA (CONT’D)
One of your classmates was attacked
late yesterday in the locker room.
You can probably ask around to find
out who it was, but the school has
informed me that if you have any
information that could help, to
please pass it along to me or one
of the other adults.
Laura turns to chalkboard and begins writing that day’s
agenda.
LAURA (CONT’D)
Of course, if you don’t know
anything, that’s fine too. I’m just
letting you know there are people
you can go to.
Tyler looks back down at his notebook then shifts his eyes
around the class to gauge their reactions. Most don’t seem to
care.
INT. HALLWAY - MORNING
Another school bell. Another passing period. Students pass
and whisper with rumors of who may have done the attack.
Katie and Greg walk out. Tyler lingers behind, but remains
close enough to be part of the conversation.
GREG
Can’t believe someone would beat up
Robert like that. Can’t believe
Robert didn’t defend himself,
honestly.
TYLER
Crazy start of the semester, huh?
Greg looks back and shows a quick smile.
47.

49. GREG
I’ll say. The guy may have gone too
far though. I heard Robert’s nose
is, like, super broken.
KATIE
Eh, he’ll be fine. Noses heal.
Don’t know if I can say the same
for all those he bullied over the
years.
GREG
You’re really not a Robert fan, are
you?
KATIE
You know what I think. A douchebag
and a bully. Don’t exactly feel
sorry for him.
They stop at a junction. Greg turns towards one hallway.
KATIE (CONT’D)
And, really, he’s not the only one
that could use that treatment.
Tyler perks up at those words. He’s heard something similar
before. Greg chuckles.
GREG
Remind me never to piss you off.
I’ll see you guys around.
He turns and walks down the adjacent hall, leaving Tyler and
Katie alone.
TYLER
Well, that was nice. Maybe he isn’t
so bad after all.
Katie pulls Tyler in close. Her voice is hushed.
KATIE
Tyler, was it you or Alan that did
it?
Tyler’s eyes light up. His face gets flushed and he takes a
small step back.
TYLER
Why do you think one of us did it?
KATIE
Because I’m not an idiot. And...
48.

50. Katie smiles ever so slightly.
KATIE (CONT’D)
I don’t think Alan could’ve pulled
off something like that.
Tyler sheepishly smiles back. His “cover” is busted.
KATIE (CONT’D)
Why did you do it, though? You were
totally against it.
TYLER
I, uh, had a change of heart, I
guess.
KATIE
Oh.
The school bell rings again. They’re late for class as
students cycle through the hallways.
KATIE (CONT’D)
Well, I’m glad you did. I’ll be
seeing you around.
TYLER
Yeah, for sure.
She smiles again and heads off down a different hallway.
Tyler stands alone, perplexed, but smitten.
INT. LOCKER ROOM - DAY
Basketball practice is over. Athletes are filing out after
showering and getting dressed. Tyler stands by his locker,
putting his shirt on.
He overhears a conversation in the locker wing next to him.
BENNETT
--and she was wasted. Black out.
DARRELL
She throw up on him?
BENNETT
Maybe, I don’t know. Apparently
after she passed out Chad took her
up to her room and they stayed
there for, like, a few hours.
49.

51. DARRELL
That’s pretty creepy.
BENNETT
Yeah, but nobody saw anything,
so...
Darrell and Bennett walk by Tyler, who makes it look like he
wasn’t eavesdropping. They briefly stop as they walk out.
BENNETT (CONT’D)
Hey McGui, you going to Amy’s
tomorrow?
TYLER
Uh, yeah. I thought I’d stop by.
BENNETT
Cool. We’ll see you there then.
They exit. Tyler leans against the locker, contemplating what
he just heard.
END ACT FOUR
*************************************************************
ACT FIVE
INT. KATIE’S BEDROOM - EVENING
Katie and Greg lounge around in her room. It’s adorned with
blue ribbons and awards from her childhood. A few old boy
band posters line the walls, mostly ironically.
Katie plays with her phone on her bed. Greg surfs through
FriendLink on Katie’s computer.
Something piques Greg’s interest.
GREG
Woah. Come look at this.
Greg motions for Katie. Together they look at the post on
screen.
“HAYS HIGH SCHOOL CRIMESTOPPERS” titles a long post. Katie
and Greg look on. Alan’s voice reads the post.
50.

52. ALAN (V.O.)
Hello students of Hays High School.
There has been a lot of talk about
the recent attack on Robert
Paulsen, notorious bully. His
actions were brought to us, the
Crimestoppers, and we dealt with
him accordingly. We take full
responsibility for our actions.
Greg leans back.
GREG
The hell? Who are these guys? This
is some Batman stuff right here.
Katie is even more confused.
KATIE
I, don’t get it.
ALAN (V.O.)
We want to let every student know
that if you have a problem, you can
come to us for help. Send us a
direct message online or text us at
214-500-1122. We can’t guarantee
that we’ll solve your problem, but
we will hear you. We promise.
GREG
That’s crazy. Like, I can’t believe
someone would do something like
this. It’ll never work.
Katie looks over at Greg and sighs.
INT. TYLER’S HOUSE - EVENING
Tyler and Alan briefly argue in his bedroom. Tyler’s more
confused than upset.
TYLER
‘We?’ Why’d you use ‘we?’
ALAN
It’s smarter that way. People won’t
care if it’s just one person. Just
because you’re not involved doesn’t
mean I have to let people know
that.
Tyler paces throughout the room.
51.

53. ALAN (CONT’D)
And, you know, you could still get
involved.
TYLER
I don’t think so. It’s...it’s just
asking to get caught.
ALAN
OK. Fair, but I told you, I’ve
taken precautions.
TYLER
Posting from an Internet cafe isn’t
exactly foolproof.
ALAN
And the phone is a disposable. Paid
with cash.
TYLER
If someone wants to find you,
they’ll still find you.
ALAN
Who? I think the police have other
things to worry about. As long as
we don’t kill anyone.
TYLER
Again with this ‘we.’ There is no
‘we.’ Why do you think I’ll join
in?
A beat.
Alan pauses and then looks behind Tyler into the open
doorway. He sees Katie walking up. He smirks.
ALAN
I can think of one reason.
Katie’s walking catches Tyler’s attention. He turns around,
startled. He didn’t invite her over, but he’s not
complaining.
TYLER
Oh, Katie. Hey. What are you doing
here?
KATIE
Your dad let me in. I needed to
talk to you. About this post
online.
52.

54. Alan’s smirk grows a bit wider. A bit more scheming.
ALAN
Oh! You told her?
TYLER
Not quite, but--
KATIE
But you decided posting about the
attack was a good idea? To make a
spectacle of it?
Tyler puts his hands up. He gets defensive, in a friendly
way.
TYLER
Woah! Hey now, that wasn’t me. I’m
just as shocked as you.
Tyler and Katie turn to Alan, who can only shrug.
ALAN
Don’t be shocked, y’all. You knew
my thoughts on the matter.
KATIE
But you’re putting yourself out
there. You’re putting Tyler out
there. If you get caught--
ALAN
We’re not getting caught, and if we
did, we’d just tell whoever found
out about Robert’s history. The
attack was... self-defense.
KATIE
That’ll go over well.
ALAN
And besides, I thought you were
supportive of this? You wanted to
see my plan come together. What’s
so different now?
Another beat.
Tyler is listening intently. The friendly trio is a little
more on edge.
KATIE
It’s just, dangerous. I don’t want
to see you two get hurt.
53.

55. TYLER
But you do want to see things made
right? To see things made fair?
Katie looks to Tyler. She pauses briefly.
KATIE
Yes.
Tyler looks around the room. He gathers his thoughts and
takes a deep breath.
TYLER
Alan, has anyone responded to you
yet?
Alan smiles. He’s reeling him in and he knows it.
ALAN
As a matter of fact, yes. More than
I imagined.
Alan pulls out the disposable phone. There are rows of
messages from various unnamed numbers. The sheer size of the
list is staggering.
ALAN (CONT’D)
Now, I haven’t gone through them
all. And I’m sure there’s more on
FriendLink, although I’m hesitant
to log in here.
He scrolls down the page. There must be over 30 messages.
Tyler is shell-shocked. Katie is enamored.
TYLER
I never thought there’d be this
many.
ALAN
As you might expect, some of them
are just trolls, asking who we are
or to help them with some fake
problem. But there’s a good number
of real calls for help.
He picks a message and opens it up.
TYLER
How do we choose who to help?
ALAN
It’s our call. But this one caught
my attention. Read it.
54.

56. Tyler and Katie lean down. A female student’s voice reads out
what’s in the message.
FEMALE STUDENT 4 (V.O.)
Hello. I don’t know if this is
legit or not, but I don’t know what
else to do. My friend Marcy got
drunk at a party a few weekends ago
and thinks she was taken advantage
of. She doesn’t know who it was and
doesn’t want to go to police with
it. I know that isn’t a whole lot
of information, but it’s worth a
shot. If you find out who did it,
please text me back. Thank you.
Katie and Tyler draw back, sighing. Alan is more giddy.
TYLER
Oh my God. I, I think I know who
this is.
Alan and Katie look up in shock.
ALAN
Wait, the person who sent this?
TYLER
No. The person who took advantage
of Marcy.
ALAN
Wait, really? Who?
TYLER
Some guy named Chad. I’m not
positive, but--
KATIE
Well, what are we going to do about
it?
Tyler perks up.
TYLER
We?
KATIE
If you’re in this, then I am too. I
don’t want to be on the sidelines
while you two have all the fun.
Tyler smiles. He’s all-in.
55.

57. TYLER
Well, I’m not sure. There’s a
pretty big party tomorrow though.
This Chad guy may be there.
ALAN
We can come up with something.
TYLER
If it’s him. We have to be sure.
ALAN
We will. Don’t worry.
Alan looks to the other two. He leans back and smiles.
ALAN (CONT’D)
Well, Crimestoppers, looks like
school is going to be a little bit
different this year.
Alan is all smiles. Katie looks to Alan, then Tyler. She
smiles.
Tyler smiles back then sighs.
END OF PILOT
56.