MOTOWN BLUES

by
Eli Cates

Elicates@gmail.com

ACT ONE
FADE IN:
EXT. DETROIT - HIGHLAND PARK NEIGHBORHOOD - DUSK
A blighted neighborhood. Plywood and graffiti and mostly
abandoned homes.
A police CRUISER is parked along infamous Highland Park,
empty tonight and oddly romantic in the rain.
INT. CRUISER
OFFICER MONIQUE DAWKINS(26), in the driver seat, opens the
window to feel the rain. OFFICER LEE CHAN(36), sitting
shotgun, looks at her like the old look at the young.
MONIQUE
What? I like the rain.
CHAN
In China they have a saying: A
drowned man is not bothered by the
rain.
MONIQUE
A drowned man is not bothered by
much Lee. Float or dont float.
Thats it.
CHAN
They mean a lost soul might find
comfort in the rain.
MONIQUE
You know what we say in Detroit?
What?

CHAN

MONIQUE
The rain keeps the hoes away.
CHAN
I like mine better.
MONIQUE
The parks empty aint it Lee?
Yeah.

CHAN

2.
DISPATCH calls over the radio:
C-51.

DISPATCH (V.O.)

CHAN
(answers radio)
C-51 go ahead...
DISPATCH (V.O.)
Possible 10-94. 166 Lester Street.
Requesting Code 2.
CHAN
Dispatch, show us 10-19.
Monique rolls up her window. LIGHTS flash on, and the Cruiser
rushes into the night.
EXT. 166 LESTER STREET - MOMENTS LATER
The house is dark, quiet behind overgrown shrubs.
The Cruiser arrives and Monique and Lee emerge. The 911
CALLER is waiting for them out front: VANESSA JACKSON (25).
Shes shaking and twitching, looking suspicious.
MONIQUE
Did you call 911?
VANESSA
Yes maam. This my baby daddys
house. He got my son in there!
MONIQUE
Are you sure hes home?
VANESSA
His car right there! And that his
hoes car too!
MONIQUE
What is your sons fathers name?
VANESSA
Cecil. They call him C-Ride.
MONIQUE
Whats your sons name?
VANESSA
Rayshawn. Thats a good name right?

3.
MONIQUE
Sure. Its good.
VANESSA
God picked it out for me.
Really?

MONIQUE

VANESSA
Even if its a dream its real.
When it comes through and you feel
it then you knowMONIQUE
-All right maam. Just wait here.
FRONT DOOR
Monique knocking loudly. Lee is waiting back with Vanessa.
MONIQUE (CONTD)
Detroit Police! Open the door!
Nothing.
Monique pounds with her open hand.
MONIQUE (CONTD)
DETROIT POLICE!
The door slips its flimsy lock and opens slightly. Monique
smells something bad. She un-clips her holster and rests her
hand on her gun. Then she looks inside.
Immediately, Monique rushes back out. Shocked. Someone whos
seen something horrific.
MONIQUE (CONTD)
(pointing at Vanessa)
GET HER BACK!
VANESSA
NO! Wheres my baby?!
CUT TO:
INT. DETROIT WESTIN - HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT
A CELLPHONE rings: God Save the Queen.

4.
Detective ELLERY SIETHER (25), already awake, answers it.
Shes a Scotland Yard transfer and speaks with an English
accent.
ELLERY
No, Im awake. Yes sir. I will find
it. Right away sir.
Ellery hangs up the phone. Sleeping in the adjacent room is
the producer for Ellerys reality show - MOTOWN TRANSFER.
JULIAN HARDY (37), is the producer. Already awakened by the
call, hes up and meets Ellery at the door.
ELLERY (CONTD)
I got a case.
A murder?

JULIAN

ELLERY
I think more than one.
Beautiful.

JULIAN

Ellery disappears into the BATHROOM to get ready. Meanwhile

Julians key grip, SARA ALFORD (26), enters the room and
prepares the camera, framing the bathroom door.
BATHROOM DOOR
Ellery emerges looking cop fabulous. Urban Detective by
Vera Wang. She does a movie star pose for the camera.
JULIAN (CONTD)
This isnt the Spice Girls.
Sorry.

ELLERY

JULIAN
Wheres the gun?
Ellery pulls a locked gun case from under the bed, spins the
combo, opens it. Inside, a deadly looking GLOCK PISTOL
Ellery sticks the gun in her holster.

5.
JULIAN (CONTD)
Can you pull it out, and stick it
back in a few times? This is a
money shot.
Ellery stifles a laugh but complies.
ELLERY
Was that money enough for you?
SHAGGY SHAMUS OCONNER (24), crew Tech, enters the room
carrying a wireless CAMERA disguised as a blouse button.
SHAGGY
Looking good luv.
JULIAN
Make sure its hidden.
Shaggy puts the camera into Ellerys collar and adjusts it.
Perfect.

JULIAN (CONTD)

INT. PARKING GARAGE - MOMENTS LATER

The ELEVATOR DOOR opens, and Ellery strides out confidently.
JULIAN
Stop. Go back. We werent rolling.
ELLERY
You know Im supposed to be
catching a murderer right now?
JULIAN
This is the last shot babe I
promise.
Ellery returns to the elevator, walks back out, and gets into
her fancy brand new unmarked police SUV. The engine fires up,
and the SUV drives away, the suddenly stops.
SUV
Ellery is putting it into reverse when her phone rings. The
hi-tech SUV connects and puts the call to speaker.
LT. GARZA (V.O.)
Where are you Detective?

6.
ELLERY
Im heading to the scene now, sir.
LT. GARZA (V.O.)
Cancel that.
What?

ELLERY

LT. GARZA (V.O.)

I need you to retrieve Sgt. Mays
from his residence. Ill send you
the address.
ELLERY
Is there a problem?
LT. GARZA
A problem? Let me see, does a
dead body count as a problem?
Uhh...

ELLERY

LT. GARZA
Cuz I got a whole family of
problems over here.
ELLERY
Of course sir.
LT. GARZA
Find my detective. Thats your only
problem right now.
Julian and Sara have caught up to the parked SUV.
ELLERY
(rolling down window)
Get in.
JULIAN
We need a shot with the lights and
sirens.
ELLERY
I have to go!
JULIAN
Come on babe. How hard is it to
flip a switch?
Ellery takes off in the SUV, leaving Julian and Sara behind.

7.
The SUV slams on its breaks at the exit. Thinking England
Ellery almost shreds her tires on the wrong way spike strip.
The SUV reverses, then pulls to the right/correct lane.
Ellery flashes her badge at the Parking Attendant and he
opens the GATE.
JULIAN (CONTD)
Did you get that?
Of course.

SARA

EXT. DETROIT - NORTH END - LATER

Ellery driving the SUV through blighted neighborhoods
shrouded in rain. Following close behind is the Crew VAN
driven by Shaggy.
EXT. JOY ROAD
Houses here list for a dollar. Most are abandoned to gangs
and homeless. In the middle of it all, an anomaly: an urban
farm.
EXT. MATTS HOUSE
Well maintained Craftsman style. On four lots, more than an
acre, including a converted barn. A proper fence runs around.
Ellery parks the SUV. Is this the place? GPS says yes.
Shaggy pulls the Crew VAN in behind. Sara and Julian jump out
like SWAT in their rainproof hoodies, camera ready.
Ellery exits the SUV with an umbrella. She uses a flashlight
to read the faded address off the curb.
JULIAN
Wheres the murder?
ELLERY
This is Sgt. Mays house. Were
giving him a ride.
JULIAN
Whats wrong with his car?
ELLERY
I dont know.

8.
FRONT DOOR
Julian and Sara are back a few steps, filming. Ellery rings
the door bell. An old-fashioned GONG echoes inside but no
answer. Ellery looks back at Julian.
JULIAN
Dont look at the camera.
Sorry.

ELLERY

Ellery knocks again on the door just as it opens. Standing

there: the devastatingly handsome SGT. MATTHEW MAYS, wearing
only pants. But hes irritated and hung over.
Julian nods his heads and smiles. He approves of this shot.
MATT
Jesus Christ Im here.
ELLERY
Sorry to bother you sir. The Lt.
ordered me to-MATT
--I know. Give me a minute, all
right?
Matt disappears to get ready. A GOAT walks up and sticks his
head out the door.
ELLERY
Its a goat!
Ellery looks back at Julian.
JULIAN
Dont look at the camera.
Ellery stares forward. The goat disappears and Matt
reappears, fully dressed and ready. Except the gun is missing
from his holster.
ELLERY
Is that your goat?
MATT
No, its my girlfriend.
ELLERY
Why does it live inside?

9.
MATT
She mows my lawn.
ELLERY
She doesnt do a very good job.
LAWN is totally overgrown.
MATT
The gunshots ruin her appetite.
Matt closes his door and heads towards the SUV. Ellery
notices the empty holster
ELLERY
(tapping her holster)
Uh... sir?
MATT
So I should probably drive. Dont
they drive on the other side of the
road in Scotland?
Yes sir.

ELLERY

Ellery moves close to Matt as she hands over the keys.

ELLERY (CONTD)
(whisper)
Your gun.
Matt realizes his holster is empty. So does Julian.
MATT
God damn it.
JULIAN
Make sure you get that.
Sara zooms on the empty holster. Matt flips off the camera,
his finger blurred out by the censors, and goes back inside.
Ellery looks at Julian again.
JULIAN (CONTD)
Dont look at the camera.
Ellery looks straight up, holding up her hands. What else!?
I/E. SUV - MOMENTS LATER
Matts driving, Ellerys in the passenger seat. Sara in back,
always filming.

10.
MATT
(giving middle finger)
You have to blur it out every time
I do this?
Yes.

SARA

MATT
How much does it cost?
SARA
I dont know.
MATT
(waving middle finger)
It probably costs more if I wave it
around like this.
Probably.

SARA

Flashing police lights up ahead reveal EXT. 166 LESTER STREET

Now a CRIME SCENE. Onlookers gawk and POLICE stand watch,
including Monique and Lee. But its unusually quiet, a
communal sense that this is especially gruesome.
The SUV and crew VAN park next to the Lt Garzas brand new
SEDAN. Detectives and crew exit.
MATT
Stay there.
JULIAN
The chief promised me access.
MATT
This is access. And if you go past
the tape, youre getting jail
access.
Monique holds the CRIME SCENE TAPE up for Matt and Ellery.
Matts surprised to see her shaken up.
You okay?

MATT (CONTD)

MONIQUE
Its bad sir.

11.
MATT
Ill get em.
I know.

MONIQUE

FRONT PORCH
Even the normally unflappable LIEUTENANT LISA GARZA appears
dazed. She holds booties and gloves for Matt and Ellery.
LT. GARZA
The body count is higher than
usual.
How high?
High.

MATT
LT. GARZA

Matt and Ellery put on the gloves and booties.

CRIME SCENE TAPE
Sara has her camera zoomed in on the Houses open DOORWAY,
framing Matt and Ellery as they disappear inside.
SARA
I think I can see blood.
JULIAN
Keep filming.
Julian heads toward the Crew Van.
INT. CREW VAN - CONTINUOUS
A/V EQUIPMENT fills the rear. Shaggy sits at a mini-desk and
watches a monitor, headphones over his ears.
The feed is coming from Ellerys hidden cam - a fisheye shot
of the FOYER. Plain enough, just hints of small blood drops.
Van doors open and Julian gets inside.
JULIAN
Turn it up.
Shaggy removes his headphones and turns up the sound -

12.
INT. 166 LESTER STREET
HIDDEN CAMERA FEED
Ellery following Matt, making a right turn from the Foyer.
This is where the horror begins. Fours dead BODIES...
ELLERY
(sotto)
Oh my god.
Her hand comes to her face, blocking the camera view. Julian
waves at his display, futilely contorting his body to see.
FAMILY ROOM
Two couches, pushed up against the back walls. Two couples,
cut in half where they sat. Bullet casings, littering the
floor.
MATT
Are you okay?
The smell.

ELLERY

Aptly named DETECTIVE REGGIE HIGHTOWER (46) is leading the

investigation.
REGGIE
Theyve been dead for almost 48
hours.
Matt hands Ellery a mint. She takes it.
REGGIE (CONTD)
(pointing out the victims)
Cecil Taylor, 26. This is his
place. Lashawna Murphy, 21, the
girlfriend. The second male vic is
Willis Taylor, Cecils cousin. The
second female vic is Jane Doe right
now.
Matt steps into a void on the carpet amongst the shells.
MATT
So this is where the magic
happened...

13.
REGGIE
We found twenty rounds so far. But
we havent checked under the coach
yet. 380s and nines.
ELLERY
Two shooters?
Matt points at the male victims with either hand, simulating
two guns.
MATT
It could have been one, if he
emptied both clips.
Unlike the other 3 victims, dead where they sat, Cecil is
turned sideways..
MATT (CONTD)
(pointing at Cecil)
It almost looks like hes reaching
for something.
Reggie examines the gap between the couch and the wall, next
to Cecils body. He pulls out a AK-47, locked and loaded.
MATT (CONTD)
He knew trouble was coming.
REGGIE
(checking the rifle)
Full clip. Hasnt been fired.
Ellery can only shake her head in stunned silence.
MATT
Too slow on the draw.
REGGIE
And another one bites the dust.
ELLERY
Is this normal!?
MATT
Normal is relative.
REGGIE
The fun isnt over. Theres more in
back.

14.
BACK HALLWAY
It dead-ends in a BATHROOM. DETECTIVE BRADLEY EVANS(29),
former Marine, is taking pictures. Inside the small tub is a
dead teenage BOY.
BRAD
Based on the age, this is gonna be
Cecils son Rayshawn. His mom
called 911. She thought Cecil was
dodging her.
MATT
Yeah, well... dodging is the one
thing Cecil wasnt doing.
Oh man.

BRAD

ELLERY
That is not funny.
BRAD
Its a little funny.
MATT
I think Rayshawn heard the gunshots
and tried to hide in the tub.
ELLERY
Why the tub?
BRAD
Theyre made of old Detroit steel.
(slapping side of tub)
Itll stop a pistol round.
MATT
I dont see any sign of gunshots.
BRAD
He wasnt shot.
Brad carefully lifts Rayshawns head. Its deformed and
unrecognizable.
ELLERY
Dear God...
MATT
Blunt force trauma.
BRAD
Emphasis on trauma.

15.
Brad points out a bloody piece of WOOD.
BRAD (CONTD)
Its a LEG from the babys crib.
Ill show you.
Backing out of the bathroom. The adjacent door leads to a
small bedroom, pictures of cute cartoon animals on the wall.
NURSERY
A smashed CRIB. Blood. A babys BLANKET, used as a shroud
over a small, lifeless BODY.
ELLERY
(sotto)
No, no...
BRAD
One of the R.O.s put the blanket
there. The rest is the same.
Matt kneels down to lift the blanket.
BRAD (CONTD)
Cecil Junior, nine months.
A small, censored shape, purple and blue, trailing blood.
MATT
It looks like he moved towards the
door.
BRAD
I dont think he died right away.
Ellery is overcome and rushes
OUTSIDE
She PUKES in the bushes, Sara filming the whole thing.
END ACT ONE
ACT TWO
INT. SUV - LATER
Ellery sits in the passenger seat. Still composing herself.
Julian and Sara sit in back seat, interviewing ELLERY
You want me to describe it?

16.
JULIAN
Or you could take better video and
I wouldnt have to ask.
ELLERY
Not enough bodies Julian?
JULIAN
My viewers wanna know the real
story, not me. Im sorry. But to
make you puke like that... must
have been heavy.
ELLERY
The worst thing Ive ever seen.
JULIAN
Oh my god dont tantalize me!
ELLERY
A two month old baby. Perfect. Head
caved in by the leg from his own
crib.
JULIAN
Wow... Ironic really.
What?

ELLERY

JULIAN
Babys head destroyed by his own
crib. Thats a money shot.
ELLERY
You are so damaged.
JULIAN
Thats the whole world baby.
Matt gets in the driver seat. Takes off.
JULIAN (CONTD)
Are we going somewhere Detective?
MATT
Downtown. Were gonna interview the
911 caller.
JULIAN
Isnt she the mother of one of the
victims?

17.
MATT
(looking at Ellery)
How do you know that?
JULIAN
I listened to the 911 call... Its
public record.
MATT
Damn, thats fast. I should put you
on the squad. Were about to have
an opening.
Me?

ELLERY

MATT
Were you puking in the bushes
outside the crime scene?
Yes sir.

ELLERY

MATT
This isnt some hidden prank camera
show thing, is it?
I wish.

ELLERY

MATT
Steven Speilberg over here probably
got a nice high def shot. I mean,
you can probably discern the actual
chunks...
ELLERY
It was orange juice sir.
MATT
Whatever it was. Its not a good
look for us. Doesnt inspire a lot
of confidence when our officers are
ralphing in various bushes.
ELLERY
I am so sorry sir.
MATT
You swear this isnt a prank show?

18.
INT. DETROIT POLICE DEPARTMENT - INTERVIEW ROOM
Vanessa sits by herself, dazed and numb from the death of her
son. Her hands hide inside the sleeves or her sweater.
Behind the one-way GLASS, Lt. Lisa and Matt are observing.
Ellery walks to interview room door and KNOCKS.
Hello?

VANESSA

Matt and Lisa share a chuckle.

MATT
We dont normally knock first.
ELLERY
Its polite. Her son just died.
Ellery enters the room and shakes Vanessas hand before
sitting.
ELLERY (CONTD)
Miss Hawkins, Im detective
Seither. Im very sorry for your
loss.
VANESSA
Whats wrong with your voice?
ELLERY
Uh, my voice? Im from England.
VANESSA
Yeah, you sound like you trying to
be the queen of something.
Thank you.

ELLERY

MATT
I thought she said she was
from Scotland?

VANESSA
You know I knew something bad
was gonna happen. I had a
feeling.

LT. GARZA
Scotland Yard.

ELLERY
You knew your son was going
to get murdered?

MATT
Thats not in Scotland?

VANESSA
Yep. Uh huh.

No.

LT. GARZA

19.

Why?

ELLERY

VANESSA
God told me. He gonna help me raise
Rayshawn right this time. Up in
heaven with his Father.
ELLERY
Do you know why anyone would want
to hurt Rayshawn?
VANESSA
Rayshawn is an angel. Nothing can
hurt him now.
ELLERY
Someone beat your son to death with
a piece of wood. It took him more
than a day to die. They found him
in a filthy bathtub.
VANESSA
I had a feeling. A mother knows.
ELLERY
Do you know why anyone would want
to hurt Cecil?
VANESSA
Cecil is a good father. He provides
for my kids.
ELLERY
Was Cecil selling dope?
VANESSA
Once I get clean Im gonna get my
son back. But Cecil a good father.
ELLERY
Ill be right back.
Ellery joins Matt and Lisa at the observation window.
MATT
You didnt get much.
ELLERY
Miss Hawkins does not seem lucid.

20.
LT. GARZA
(acknowledging FILE)
Shes a crackhead. Thats why she
got her kids taken away.
ELLERY
How long before she sobers up?
Never.

MATT

Matt grabs the file and joins Vanessa inside.

VANESSA
You dont knock no more?
MATT
Sorry.
(places down the FILE)
Ive got Rayshawns record.
VANESSA
Its his birthday next week. He
thinks I forget but I dont.
MATT
(pulling out a pack)
You want a cigarette?
ELLERY
Are they allowed to smoke in
there?

VANESSA
Are we allowed to smoke in
here?

LT. GARZA
Definately not.

MATT
Whos gonna stop us?

Vanessa and Matt lighting up, smoking. Matt motions to the

file.
MATT (CONTD)
(showing PICTURE)
When Rayshawn heard gunfire, he got
down in the tub. That was smart.
Ive seen them stop AK rounds.
VANESSA
I taught him that.
MATT
He said you were a good mother.
VANESSA
He did?!? Oh my baby. I tried.

21.
MATT
Rayshawn stayed with Cecil.
VANESSA
Yeah Im trying to get clean.
MATT
Rayshawn knows that.
VANESSA
But Cecil is a good father.
MATT
He always provides for his kids.
VANESSA
Thats right. Rayshawn like it over
there. He get pizza every week.
MATT
How did Cecil make his money?
VANESSA
I dont know...
MATT
He sells rock, doesnt he?
VANESSA
When he can get it.
INT. EVIDENCE ROOM
Brad is standing over a table of bagged evidence, logging the
details into a form. Matt and Ellery enter.
BRAD
Are you feeling better ma'am?
ELLERY
Oh. I'm fine. Thank you detective.
BRAD
The first time is hard for
everyone.
ELLERY
It's not really my first timeMATT
-Is this everything?

22.
BRAD
Pretty much. Eight balls of powder
in the baggies, sir. And dimes in
the foil. About four ounces all
together.
ELLERY
Whats a dime?
Matt opens a foil wrap.
MATT
Ten dollars worth.
ELLERY
A whole family gets slaughtered
over this?
MATT
It does seems like a lot of
trouble...
BRAD
My gut says this is the Disciples.
Cecil must have been creeping in on
their turf. This is a message. Loud
and clear. Now everyone is too
scared to talk.
ELLERY
Understandable, Id say.
MATT
So we make them talk.
How?

ELLERY

MATT
(stuffing bagging into
pocket)
Leverage. Lets go.
Matt heads to the door.
ELLERY
(sotto)
Is he allowed to do that?
Do what?

BRAD

Brad applies WHITEOUT to a line on his list.

23.
I/E. NORTH END - DETROIT - SUV - NIGHT
Matt drives, Ellery the passenger. Sara in the backseat.
SARA
Do you suspect gang involvement?
MATT
Is that a joke?
SARA
So is he a blood or a crip?
MATT
You saw Boyz in the Hood.
SARA
I wanted to prepare.
MATT
Its a good movie. But this isnt
the movies. Bloods shoot bloods,
Crips shoot crips.
ELLERY
The witness said Cecil was a G.D.
MATT
Gangsta Disciple. Theyre a Crip
sect from Chicago. Most of the rock
in Detroit goes through them.
ELLERY
What are their colors?
MATT
Black and blue.
ELLERY
Look at that car.
MATT
Thats him.
Matt puts the SUV behind the CAR, two males visible inside.
Matt flips a switch, and a holographic display illuminates
his windshield. MPH, GPS, etc.
MATT (CONTD)
What the hell?
SARA
The car has advanced navigational
Heads Up Display.

24.
MATT
Does is shoot missiles too?
SARA
This isnt the movies.
Matt switches off the HUD and hits another switch, activating
LIGHTS and SIREN. The CAR hesitates, then takes off. Matt
hits the gas and roars after it.
ELLERY
Hes fleeing?!
MATT
Oh this happens all the time.
(points at Ellerys shoes)
Can you run in those?
ELLERY
RUN?! These are Manolos!
MATT
Is that a yes or a no?
ELLERY
Hes pulling over!
The car slows and pulls over.
Get ready.

MATT

ELLERY
Are you serious?
The car stops. The DRIVER and PASSENGER jump out and run in
opposite directions.
MATT
I got the driver.
FOOTCHASE Matts out of the car, running. A moment later Ellery is out,
chasing down the passenger, Julian and Sara close behind. The
Manolos are still in the footwell.
Ellery is gaining on the Passenger, when her bare feet slip
in a muddy yard. She pulls herself up but the Passenger is
gone.
[BLEEP!]

ELLERY

25.
Ellery looks up and sees Sara filming. She trudges back to
the
SUV
Matt has the Driver ANTAWAN (28) in cuffs. Theyre standing
around, watching Ellery.
ELLERY (CONTD)
He got away.
MATT
(fake British accent)
He got away, did he?
Antawan chuckles.
Watch him.

MATT (CONTD)

Matt enters the Car and begins searching.

ANTAWAN
You fine for a detective.
Thank you.

ELLERY

ANTAWAN
I got the hook up on shoes girl. My
boy work at the outlets.
ELLERY
I have shoes, thank you.
ANTAWAN
It dont look like it.
ELLERY
You think this is all a joke? I
could shoot you, you know? No one
would care!
ANTAWAN
(sees the camera)
Hell no! For realz! Im on Pranked!
No-

ELLERY

ANTAWAN
Im on TV yo!

26.

Well, yes-

ELLERY

ANTAWAN
Shout out Highland Park. Gangsta
Disciple for life!
Matt emerges from the car carrying the BAG of drugs.
ANTAWAN (CONTD)
Oh hell no! Thats not mine.
MATT
Thats what everyone says.
(to Ellery)
Put him in the back.
Lets go.
For real?

ELLERY
ANTAWAN

ELLERY
For real, for real.
ANTAWAN
Those arent my drugs.
ELLERY
Well get it sorted.
Ellery puts Antawan in the back of the SUV.
Matt approaches Julian and Sara.
MATT
(for the camera)
We found this in is car.
JULIAN
What is it?
MATT
Cocaine. High quality. On the
streets they call it Glass.
JULIAN
Get a tight shot of that.
SARA
Relax, I got it.

27.
I/E. INTERSTATE 24 - SUV - LATER
Matt and Ellery up front, Antawan cuffed in the back seat.
The crew Van follows close behind, but with some tactical
driving, Matt loses them in the alleys of North End.
Ellerys phone rings over the SUV speakers. Its Julian.
MATT
Dont answer.
ELLERY
Why not? Where are we going?
MATT
Antawan is never gonna talk with
the cameras around.
ANTAWAN
I dont know anything man.
Ellerys phone rings again and she silences it in
frustration.
ELLERY
Do you know Cecil Taylor?
ANTAWAN
Never heard of him.
ELLERY
His family was murdered. His infant
baby lay on the floor for 24 hours
before she died.
ANTAWAN
Thats a tough break.
ELLERY
(pantomiming)
A tough break? Actually yeah, they
broke the leg from the crib, and
used it smashMATT
(reaching over)
-Enough.
I/E. GAS STATION - CONTINUOUS
Rundown, befitting the neighborhood. Matt parks the

28.
SUV
ANTAWAN
What the hell are we doing here?
ELLERY
Do we need petrol?
MATT
(getting out)
Antawan told me he needed to use
the restroom.
ANTAWAN
Nah man Im cool.
ELLERY
Theres a restroom at the station.
MATT
(pulling Antawan out)
Then hes gonna say we violated his
civil rights.
ANTAWAN
Im good man. Im good.
STATION KIOSK
MATT
I need the keys.
ATTENDANT
The toilet is out of order.
MATT
(showing his badge)
I dont care.
The Attendant slides the keys through the security drawer.
EXT. MENS ROOM
Matt leads the cuffed Antawan to the DOOR. Ellery follows.
MATT
This is the mens room detective.
Well be right out.
Ellery watches the door close and lock. Her when her phone
rings. Its Julian. She powers the phone off.

29.
INT. MENS ROOM
Matt unlocks Antawans cuffs.
ANTAWAN
You on TV now dog?
MATT
I didnt have a choice.
ANTAWAN
They paying you?
No.

MATT

ANTAWAN
You need a manager. We could get
rich together bro.
MATT
I dont want to be rich. More
money, more problems.
ANTAWAN
Yeah right. How many rich people
you ever arrest?
Matt pulls out the drugs and hands them to Antawan. Antawan
removes a baggie and the men exchange a nod. Antawan
carefully pours out a line on the counter.
MATT
(rolling up a twenty into
a straw)
You heard about Cecil?
ANTAWAN
Yeah. Its crazy.
Matt and Antawan share a line.
MATT
(pounding on the counter)
Wow! God damn.
ANTAWAN
Good shit, right? This has to be
Docs stuff.
Antawan holds the half empty ziploc up to the light.
ANTAWAN (CONTD)
The packaging is amateur though.

30.
ELLERY (O.S.)
(pounding on the door)
Are you okay?
MATT
(sotto)
Hide that.
More pounding from Ellery.
ANTAWAN
Is your new partner cool?
MATT
Were gonna find out.
Antawan tucks the drugs into his pants and Matt unlocks the
door. Ellery enters.
ELLERY
I thought I heard screaming.
Were fine.

MATT

Were cool.

ANTAWAN

Blood begins dripping from Antawans nose.

ELLERY
What did he do to you?
Nothing.

MATT

Nothing.

ANTAWAN

Anton SNIFFS and wipes away the blood. Both subtly talking
faster.
MATT (CONTD)
Tell us about Cecil.
ANTAWAN
Man, Cecil small time. He still
trying to make his bones.
His bones?

ELLERY

MATT
(explaining for Ellery)
He wasnt a full fledged member of
the gang yet.
ELLERY
How does someone make their
bones?

31.
ANTAWAN
By jacking fools.
MATT
(for Ellery)
Robbing people, basically.
ELLERY
So Cecil was making bones, he and
his brother Ike jack some coke
coming in from Windsor.
MATT
Whos coke was it?
ANTAWAN
Doc. He bakes all the rock in North
End
MATT
(for Ellery)
He turns cocaine and baking soda
into crack.
ANTAWAN
He got 10,000 gangsters that would
kill for him. All colors. Cuz he
got the best dope.
ELLERY
Even the baby?
He cold.

ANTAWAN

MATT
Thanks man. You ready?
Yeah.

ANTAWAN

Matt punches Antawan, cutting his eye. Antawan shakes it off

and leaves. Ellery gasps and brings her hand up to cover the
hidden camera.
ELLERY
(whispering)
What are you doing?
MATT
Saving his life.

32.
INT. CREW VAN - CONTINUOUS
Julian and Shaggy watching DISPLAY from Ellerys hidden
camera.
Matt punching Antawan.
JULIAN
Detroit is gonna riot when they see
this.
END ACT TWO
INT. HOMICIDE BULLPEN - LATER
Matt and Ellery return. Through the glass of her OFFICE, we
can see Lt. Garza watching a laptop. Shaggy operates the
controls, while Julian jabs his finger at the screen.
Lt. Garza makes eye contact with Matt and waves him inside.
INT. LT GARZAS OFFICE
JULIAN
Its police brutality.
Matt walks in, and Julian goes quiet.
Rewind it.

LT. GARZA

Shaggy complies. Lt. Garza turns the laptop around so Matt

can see.
MATT
What the hell is this?
LT. GARZA
I was about to ask you that, Sgt.
JULIAN
You beat that man. Another white
cop beating a black man.
MATT
I bet you got an erection when you
saw that. It makes you hot, doesnt
it.
LT. GARZA
Detective, please.

33.
MATT
[BLEEP] [BLEEP]!
Matt walks out. Julian looks shocked, indignant.
JULIAN
I should have gone to the press
with this!
LT. GARZA
But you want it for your own show.
JULIAN
I couldve started a riot.
LT. GARZA
I know. Thats why Im seizing all
copies of this video.
JULIAN
You cant do that.
LT. GARZA
Yes I can. They pose an imminent
and inherent danger to the public.
You said so yourself.
(to Shaggy)
Turn off that laptop.
Shaggy complies.
INT. HOMICIDE DIVISION - MOMENTS LATER
Ellery is briefing Reggie and Brad. Brad is the junior
partner, so he takes notes.
ELLERY
Apparently Cecil and his brother
Ike jacked a shipment of cocaine.
BRAD
Do we know whose cocaine?
ELLERY
Someone named Doc.
REGGIE
Doc Holiday.
ELLERY
You know him.

34.
BRAD
Oh yeah. Hes big time.
ELLERY
According to Antawan, he bakes all
the rock in the north end.
REGGIE
All the rock in Detroit.
Matt joins them, clearly angry.
ELLERY
Is everything okay?
MATT
Come with me.
Matt takes Ellery by the arm and pulls her to a secluded
corner.
ELLERY
Whats wrong?!
Matt yanks open the top buttons of Ellerys shirt, revealing
the hidden CAMERA. She covers herself defensively.
I had to.

ELLERY (CONTD)

MATT
People shouldnt see the things we
see. Some of the world deserves to
be innocent.
Im sorry.

ELLERY

MATT
Youre reassigned. Detective
Hightower will be your new partner.
Yes sir.

ELLERY

MATT
One more thing. In this country,
secretly filming inside a restroom
is illegal.
Yes sir.

ELLERY

35.
Matt leaves. Ellery pulls out the camera and throws it in the
trash.
I/E. CROWN VIC - LATER
Reggie drives the unmarked patrol car through DOWNTOWN. The
mighty GM Towers crown the impressive skyline. Couldnt be
more different than the hood.
Ellery stares out the passenger window, the rain lighter now.
Sara in the back seat, always filming.
REGGIE
How you doing?
I'm fine.

ELLERY

REGGIE
Its kinda my job to know when
people are lying.
ELLERY
(Looking at Reg)
Thank you detective, but Ill be
fine.
She hides a tear, just something in her eye.
REGGIE
Call me Reg. Thats what my friends
call me.
ELLLERY
They used to call me Elle, back
home.
REGGIE
(To Sara)
Could you turn off the camera for a
second?
SARA
I cant. Julian would kill me.
REGGIE
You can be human for a second. He
cant kill you for that. Im a
homicide detective. I would know.

Ha.

SARA
(Turning off camera)

36.
Reg hands Ellery his handkerchief.
ELLERY
(Wiping eyes)
Thanks. I don't know what came over
me.
REG
It's rough out here. We all have
our moments. Thats how it is for
people that do our job. Unless you
some kind of Robocop. Hes from
Detroit, you know.
ELLERY
Im not Robocop. Thirty minutes
into my first shift shes recording
me puking in the bushes.
I had to.

SARA

ELLERY
I know. That's what I told Sgt.
Barnes. But hes still mad.
REGGIE
Don't worry about Matt. Hes moody
like a girl. Brad says hes got
permanent PMS... No offense.
ELLERY
None taken.
SARA
Speak for yourself.
PARKING LOT
Reg parks the car, the Crew Van pulling in moments later.
Ellery quickly reapplies some eyeliner.
REGGIE
My daughter says they have eyeliner
for men now.
ELLERY
It's called "guyliner".
REG
Jesus Christ. What is the world
coming to?

37.

Equality.

SARA

REGGIE
Lord help us.
ELLERY
(Puts away makeup)
Okay. Thank you Sara.
Sara resumes filming.
EXT. LIBERTY SOLUTIONS INC - CONTINUOUS
An old Social Security building from the 70s, re-purposed and
featuring a new sign and logo... The SCALES OF JUSTICE.
ELLERY
This is it?
REG
They closed the probation
department last year. Now it all
goes through private companies.
INT. LIBERTY SOLUTIONS INC - CONTINUOUS
An obese SECURITY GUARD watches the entrance. Reggie waves
and the Guard buzzes them in.
GUARD
No cameras allowed.
REGGIE
Dont worry. This is not gonna be
interesting.
A mass of cubicles, desks, paperwork. Staffed by a skeleton
crew this time of night.
A disinterested RECEPTIONIST guard the entrance, more
interested in her computer.
REGGIE (CONTD)
Hi. We are looking for a parolee.
RECEPTIONIST
Just a minute.
Ellery leans to see the screen. The Receptionist is surfing
Facebook.

38.

Facebook?

ELLERY

Reg puts his BADGE on the table.

REGGIE
This is important.
RECEPTIONIST
Fine. What?
REGGIE
We need to find a parolee named Ike
Taylor.
RECEPTIONIST
(typing)
Ike Taylor?
Yeah.

REGGIE

RECEPTIONIST
We dont got no Ike Taylor.
ELLERY
Try Isaac Taylor.
RECEPTIONIST
Its Isaac Taylor now?
ELLERY
Just check.
RECEPTIONIST
(typing)
Isaac Taylor. Aggravated robbery.
(pointing)
Cubicle 11.
CUBICLE 11
A computer, overflowing paperwork, and a phone. Behind it
all, the harried Parole Office KYLE MILLER(55).
KYLE
Can I help you?
REGGIE
Im detective Hightower, this is
detective Seither. Were from
Detroit Homicide.

39.

Ah crap.

KYLE

ELLERY
Whats wrong?
KYLE
I already got 4 points this month.
ELLERY
I get a point every time one of my
guys kills somebody. 10 and Im
fired.
ELLERY (CONTD)
Ten per month?
KYLE
It sounds like a lot but its not.
REGGIE
Relax my man. Your guy didnt kill
anybody.
ELLERY
Were trying to save his life...
Were trying to save someone a
point.
Reggie presents a sheet with Ike Taylors info.
REGGIE
Ikes brother was murdered, along
with five family members.
KYLE
I heard about that. Six points
right there.
REGGIE
Ike is gonna be next unless we find
him.
KYLE
(typing)
His address is listed as 166 Lester
Street.
ELLERY
Thats his brothers house.
REGGIE
When does he check in?

40.
KYLE
Next report is... six weeks.
ELLERY
Do you have his number?
KYLE
Yeah. Do you want me to call him?
ELLERY
Yes. Please.
Kyle picks up the phone and dials.
KYLE
Isaac Taylor? This is PO Miller...
Is there any way you can come down
today?... Okay... How about later
this week?
ELLERY
Give me the telephone.
Ellery takes the phone from Kyles hand.
ELLERY (CONTD)
Mr. Taylor? My name is Ellery. I
work for the Detroit Lost Property
Department... Thats why Im
calling. My condolences... A large
amount of cash was recovered from
your brothers home... We need to
return it to his next of kin...
Thats you?... Perfect.
Ellery returns the phone. Kyle hangs it up.
KYLE
How much money?
ELLERY
(rolling her eyes)
Thank you for youre help.
KYLE
Tell him he still owes us parole
fees.
EXT. PARKING LOT - LIBERTY SOLUTIONS INC
Julian and Sara arguing behind the open Crew van. Shaggy
behind the controls of the video monitor.

41.
JULIAN
Jesus Christ.
SARA
She asked me to.
JULIAN
Who gives a shit!? You are paid to
film. It's not hard. A monkey can
hold a goddamn camera.
SARA
It was off for less than a minute.
JULIAN
Less than a minute?! Have you
watched the news in the last ten
years? Everything is less than a
minute. The World Trade Center...
gone in ten seconds.
SARA
Pretty sure no buildings collapsed.
JULIAN
Ellery was about to start crying.
That's what the viewers want to
see. That's how we make money.
SARA
I know that.
JULIAN
If it happens again you're done.
Back to dancing for slimy dollars
in some Reno shit hole.
I got it.

SARA

JULIAN
I got your replacement on speed
dial.
SARA
Until he eats his banana phone.
What?

JULIAN

Ellery and Reggie exit the building and approach.

Sara picks up her camera and starts filming.

42.
REGGIE
We need you to move the Van and
stay out of sight.
What's up?

JULIAN

REGGIE
Cecils brother agreed to meet us
here. If he sees anything sketchy
he's gonna bounce.
ELLERY
He knows the people who killed his
brother are looking for him.
REGGIE
No telling what his state of mind
is right now. If he pulls a gun,
lay flat on the ground. Get small.
JULIAN
Is that likely?
REGGIE
It happens.
JULIAN
(eyes Sara)
Well be ready.
Julian enters the Van, and Shaggy drives to a large lot
across the street.
ELLERY
The camera has to be out of sight.
I got it.

SARA

They walk towards the Crown Vic.

REGGIE
I can throw Julian in jail for a
couple days, if you want. A little
attitude adjustment.
SARA
So tempting.
REGGIE
Its a standing offer.

43.

Thanks.

SARA

INT. CROWN VIC

Reggie checks his watch. A CAR pulls into the lot. Ellery and
Reggie compare the Driver to photos of Ike.
Nope.

REGGIE

SARA
Are you sure this guys gonna show?
ELLERY
He thinks hes coming to collect
some of Cecils property.
REGGIE
Property. She told him we had
Cecils cash. Lots of it.
SARA
Like how much?
REGGIE
Oh, there ain't no cash.
ELLERY
Yeah, I lied.
SARA
So it's gonna be like: Hey man.
Sorry your whole familys dead. Oh
and we lied about the money.
Pranked!
ELLERY
Well use a little more tact than
that.
SARA
Well then Im sure hell love it.
A beat up CAR pulls in the lot.
ELLERY
That's him.
A nervous IKE TAYLOR exits his car in an oversize hoodie and
heads towards the building entrance. Reggie and Ellery exit
the Crown Vic in pursuit.

44.
REGGIE
(to Sara)
Wait here.
EXT. LIBERTY SOLUTIONS INC
Ellery is close when Ike sees her from under his hood, wary.
ELLERY
Isaac Taylor?
Ike hears her voice and relaxes.
IKE
You Ellery?
ELLERY
Im Ellery.
IKE
You from England?
ELLERY
Yes actually.
IKE
Why you come to Detroit?
ELLERY
I like Detroit.
IKE
You never been to my neighborhood.
ELLERY
Actually, I have.
(showing her badge)
I need to ask you some questions.
Ike turns and runs. Reggie stops him in his tracks and takes
him down. Ellery helps hold Ike and Reggie slaps on cuffs.
REGGIE
Chill out, my man. Were trying to
help you.
INT. INTERVIEW ROOM - LATER
An unhappy Ike sits against the wall. Ellery and Reggie are
across the table.

45.
REGGIE
So what do you think happened to
Cecil?
IKE
I dont know man. Niggas be dying
all the time in the hood. For no
reason.
REGGIE
We found rock in his house.
IKE
I dont know nothing about that.
Cecil do his own thing.
REGGIE
Word on the street is that you and
Cecil jacked the rock from Doc
Holiday.
IKE
Fairy tales man. Niggas say
anything to dodge a beef.
REGGIE
So you dont know anything about
it?
IKE
Hell no. They revoke me just for
being around that shit.
ELLERY
You were living at Cecils house.
IKE
One night. He hollering at me about
rent so I bounced.
ELLERY
Did you see ever see drugs in the
house?
IKE
I keep my eyes closed and my head
down. You feel me?
Ellery and Reggie exchange a look.
ELLERY
Hang tight Mr. Taylor.
Ellery and Reggie exit.

46.
INT. LT GARZAS OFFICE
A video feed of the Interview Room on the monitor - Ike by
himself, thousand yard stare on his face. Lt Garza at her
desk, Matt leaning against the back credenza.
ELLERY
I dont think hes gonna talk.
MATT
He just got out of prison. He knows
the game.
ELLERY
I thinks hes mad I lied to him
about the money.
MATT
Hes mad because were cop. We put
him in prison and we can do it
again.
LT. GARZA
If Ike can ID Cecils killer, well
take any possible charges against
him off the table. And tell him
Crime Stoppers is offering a reward
for a conviction.
How much?

ELLERY

LT. GARZA
I dont know. Make up a number.
Before Ellery leaves, Matt hands her a folder.
Take this.

MATT
BACK TO:

INT. INTERVIEW ROOM

Ellery and Reggie return. Ellery puts the FOLDER on the
table.
ELLERY
I want you to see what happened to
your brother and his family.
Ellery slowly arranges photos of the victims, starting with
the adults. Ike is shocked and upset, eyes getting wet.

47.
IKE
I dont want to see that man.
Ellery places the photo of the teenager.
ELLERY
This is Rayshawn, we think. Right
now hes a John Doe because his mom
couldnt recognize his face.
IKE
(touching pic)
Ray Ray, you always be my boy... He
the only one who write me when I
was locked up. We was gonna see
Avengers.
ELLERY
(places last photo)
Cecil Jr. Nine months old. He
didnt die right away. He tried to
crawl. You can see the trail. He
made it six inches. In 24 hours.
Ike, overcome, hides his face in his hands.
REGGIE
Listen to me Ike. Six people are
dead. Thats all we care about.
Help us find the killer and we wipe
the board clean on everything else.
ELLERY
And there is money. Real money.
Crime Stoppers is offering $50,000
to any witness that can help close
this case. You can get back on your
feet.
Ike wipes his face and pulls himself together.
IKE
We didnt know the coke was Docs.
It was just a couple white guys
from Canada.
REGGIE
What happened?
IKE
Cecil got a tip. They staying at
the Motor Lodge. We jacked em. It
was easy... Then the Blackout Squad
showed up.

48.
END ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
INT. LOCKER ROOM - DPD
The SWAT TEAM preparing for battle. Body armor strapped on;
rifles loaded; scopes checked.
INT. HALLWAY - DPD
Ellery and Reggie walking fast, determined. In Ellerys hand,
a stack of PAPERS. Sara follows with her camera.
Matt is waiting for them at the end, holding a DOOR open INT. SWAT BRIEFING - CONTINUOUS
The SWAT team assembled. Their commander, former Navy SEAL
SERGEANT WOLFE, stands in front next to Lt. Garza. She sees
Ellery enter and waves her forward.
SGT. WOLFE
You got it?
We got it.
Go ahead.

ELLERY
SGT. WOLFE

Ellery hands a sheet of paper to Wolfe. Its warrants for

Doc Holiday and his two accomplices. More papers get handed
to the SWAT team.
ELLERY
Can you pass these around?
SWAT hands the papers around, while Ellery eyes the weapons.
Serious hardware. Men prepared for war.
WOLFE
Listen up men. Were dealing with
human garbage. They beat a nine
month old baby to death with a
piece of his own crib. If you have
a chance to take out the trash and
save this city a trial, take it.
Ellery looks at Wolfe. Did he really just say that?

49.
SWAT
(chorus)
Yes sir.
Ellery watches Matt whisper something to Lt Garza. Then he
turns and exits.
WOLFE
Lets rock and roll.
INT. GARAGE - DPD - MOMENTS LATER
And old SCHOOL BUS. Flaked yellow paint. The SWAT team boards
in military precision. Wolfe uses his hand to invite the
detective to board next.
Sara filming Elllery, Lt Garza, Reggie get on the bus next.
After you.
Thank you.

WOLFE
SARA

WOLFE
The back seat is the safest.
I/E. MICHIGAN AVE - DPD - MOMENTS LATER
The SWAT School Bus exits the garage and pulls into traffic.
Wolfe is standing in the center aisle, bracing his hand on
the driver seat.
WOLFE
(checking his watch)
School is out in fifteen minutes.
The BUS traveling through high class downtown Detroit.
CUT TO:
INT. INTERVIEW ROOM
Ikes hoodie covers his head, which is face down on the
table. A KNOCK at the door and Ike raises his head, seeing
Matt enter.
On the table is a fast food meal. Matt sees its untouched.
MATT
Not hungry?

50.
IKE
Nah... not right now.
MATT
You wanna get out of here?
IKE
Did they grab Doc?
MATT
SWAT is on its way. Itll be over
soon. Come on.
Matt holds open the door. Cecil grabs the bag of food on his
way out.
INT. DPD MAIN ENTRANCE
Matt walking Ike to entrance. He exchanges a wave with the
duty Officer. She smiles broadly, way more interested in Matt
than anything else.
EXT. DPD MAIN ENTRANCE
Matt shakes Ikes hand.
MATT
Thanks for your help Ike.
(pulling out bis card)
If theres anything I can ever do
for you.
IKE
Im cool. But thanks.
MATT
Where you staying tonight?
IKE
Probably first Methodist. They have
fifty beds. But it fills up when it
rains.
MATT
We have a hotel room for witnesses.
Its downtown. Its nice. Let me
hook you up. The police will pay
for it.
IKE
Uh, Im cool.

51.
MATT
Free mini-bar.
All right.

IKE

EXT. SWAT BUS - FREEWAY

Tinted windows obscure the occupants. Rolling down the
interstate, taking the exit to HIGHLAND PARK NEIGHBORHOOD
Deep in the hood.
CUT TO:
EXT. UNMARKED CRUISER - DOWNTOWN
Majestic skyline. Beautiful waterfront.
MGM GRAND HOTEL
Matt pulls the Cruiser into the main driveway.
IKE
This is it?!
MATT
Thats right.
Damn.

IKE

Matt parks right in front. They get out. Ike in awe of the
marble fountains; gold filigreed walls.
BELLHOP
You cant park here!
Matt flashes his badge.
MATT
[BLEEP] off.
The ENTRANCE doors slide open as they walkthrough.

52.
INT. MGM GRAND HOTEL - CONTINUOUS
The interiors even more impressive. The high class guests
look suspiciously at Ike. He doesnt belong here.
COUNTER
A Japanese Businessman receives his key from the
RECEPTIONIST, then turns and heads towards the elevator.
Wait here.

MATT

Next in line is a group of chatty New York DEBUTANTES. The

ALPHA female approaches the counter when Matt cuts in front.
ALPHA DEBUTANTE
Hey! We were next.
MATT
(flashing badge)
Police business.
ALPHA DEBUTANTE
I dont care! My husband knows the
mayor!
MATT
You want me to search your bags for
drugs?
Silence.
MATT (CONTD)
Then get back in line.
Debutantes go quiet, get back in orderly line.
MATT (CONTD)
I need a room. The highest floor
you have.
RECEPTIONIST
Do you have a reservation?
MATT
(puts badge down )
Its important...
RECEPTIONIST
(typing)
We have one room available on the
20th floor. But its 400 a night.

53.
MATT
That works.
Matt hands over a credit card and the Receptionist swipes it.
Matt checks over his shoulder. Ike is still there, looking
awkward.
RECEPTIONIST
(handing over keys)
Enjoy your stay.
Thank you.

MATT

ELEVATOR
DING. Matt and Ike enter.
MATT
Twenty... Just push it.
Ike pushes the button and the doors close.
CUT TO:
I/E. SWAT BUS - HIGHLAND PARK NEIGHBORHOOD
The SWAT bus pulls to a stop. Wolfe checks his watch.
WOLFE
Schools out boys. Sniper teams,
move out.
Six men disembark, snipers and their spotters.
WOLFE (CONTD)
Drive around the block.
The bus moves on as the snipers infiltrate the neighborhood.
RANDOM HOUSE
Snipers pounding on the door.
SWAT
Get down. Get down!
A scared female (65) throws her hands up.
SWAT (CONTD)
Police! Hands up!

54.
Female complies. Swat retrains her with zip-ties.
Sit tight.

SWAT (CONTD)

SWAT sniper team opens second floor window, setting up the

rifle. Through the scope - a clear view of Docs house.
BACK TO:
INT. HOTEL HALLWAY - 20TH FLOOR
Matt leads Ike to the room: 2021. He sticks in a magnetic key
and the door opens.
MATT
Let me check it out.
HOTEL ROOM
Matt enters first. Its a high class room, two separate
bedrooms and bathrooms. Matt checks one by one. Ike sees the
balcony for the doorway. It pulls him forward.
Matt finishes his search and sees Ike on the balcony. He
dials a number on his phone... Lt. Garza.
He slides the phone into his pocket and joins Ike outside.
BACK TO:
INT. SWAT BUS
The Bus parks in a secluded spot, behind an old garage.
WOLFE
Time to rock and roll.
SWAT Team exits with precision, followed my Wolfe. The
detectives in the back rise and prepare to follow, when Lt
Garzas phone RINGS.
LT. GARZA
Stop. Everybody back down.
The detectives sit back down. Garza puts her phone on
speaker.
LT. GARZA (CONTD)
(mouthing words to Sara)
RECORD THIS.

55.
Sara nods and points the camera at Garzas phone. On the
display: Matt (555)432-1422.
IKE (V.O.)
I cant believe this is Detroit.
Nice, huh?

MATT (V.O.)

IKE (V.O.)
My last room didnt even have
windows.
CUT TO:
INT. HOTEL ROOM - BALCONEY
Beautiful VIEW. Waterfront and the Detroit River.
MATT
(pulls out pack)
Want a cigarette?
IKE
(points - no smoking sign)
You wont arrest me?
MATT
Id have to arrest myself.
Matt lights a cigarette, puffs. The he lights Ikes.
MATT (CONTD)
(hands hotel key)
Heres the key.
Thanks.

IKE

MATT
Were moving on Doc right now.
Itll be over soon.
Ike smokes in silence.
MATT (CONTD)
You know my brother was supposed to
do a dime in Jackson.
IKE
He got early release?

56.
MATT
Yeah ... But it was in a body bag.
IKE
Damn. He get shanked?
MATT
Bedsheet around the neck.
He made it one year.
Sorry man.

IKE

MATT
I had a feeling. The light was gone
from his eyes. When they told me I
wasnt surprised.
IKE
It happens. Theres nothing you can
do.
MATT
I mean I visited him every
weekend... More when I could.
IKE
Your brother was lucky. I didnt
get one visitor. In ten years.
MATT
Not even Cecil?
IKE
Hell no. And I went away for him
man. We both jacked the Gas
Station. But I took the rap. He
just had a kid.
MATT
Then you finally get out and he
starts bitching about rent money.
IKE
They treated me like a criminal.
MATT
Rayshawn didnt. He knew you were a
decent person.
IKE
Rayshawn. He was the one good thing
in my life...
(MORE)

57.
IKE (CONT'D)
He wasnt supposed to be there. He
supposed to be with his mom.
MATT
(pointing up)
Rayshawns up there now Ike. He
knows youre hurting.
IKE
I didnt mean to man. I just got so
angry. Something just snapped.
MATT
God forgives Ike. You can still do
right by him. Rayshawn can rest in
peace.
IKE
(crying)
Im so sorry.
Matt and Ike embrace.
MATT
Tell me what happened Ike.
BACK TO:
INT. SWAT BUS - MOMENTS LATER
MATT (V.O.)
The baby too?
Yeah.

IKE (V.O.)

MATT (V.O.)
Okay. You know I gotta put these on
now.
I know.

IKE (V.O.)

Lt Garza hangs up her phone. Ellery cant help but looked

shocked.
SARA
Well I guess thats a wrap.
Sgt. Wolfe boards the bus.

58.
WOLFE
My men are in position. Its time
to do this.
LT. GARZA
Tell your men to stand down.
INT. DETROIT JAIL - LATER
Matt and the handcuffed Ike stand in front of the intake
desk, Matt signing paperwork.
Lets go.

DEPUTY

The DEPUTY leads Ike away.

MATT
Take care Ike.
You too.

IKE

EXT. DETROIT JAIL - MOMENTS LATER

Matt finds Ellery waiting for him.
MATT
What are you doing here?
ELLERY
I wanted to say goodbye.
Goodbye?

MATT

ELLERY
I turned in my resignation.
MATT
That didnt take long.
ELLERY
Im not cut out for this.
Okay.

MATT

ELLERY
Sorry I wasted your time.

59.
MATT
Hey, I do it all the time. Let me
buy you a drink before you go.
Uh...

ELLERY

MATT
For old times sake.
Sure.

ELLERY

INT. OMALLEYS BAR - LATER

An Irish style pub. Irish flag and accoutrements decorate the
walls. PIERRE, the bartender, is French-Canadian.
MATT
Just like home, right?
ELLERY
This is an Irish bar.
MATT
I know.
(to Pierre)
Two Jamisons please... doubles.
ELLERY
Im English.
MATT
Oh yeah. So Jamison doesnt work on
you?
ELLERY
I didnt say that.
(clinking glasses)
Cheers.
They pound their shots.
MATT
(to Pierre)
Two more.
Two more doubles are poured.
MATT (CONTD)
So youre quitting?

60.
ELLERY
I sat across the table from the
killer. I had no idea. I let him
go.
MATT
We got him in the end.
ELLERY
You got him.
MATT
I watched your interview. It was
good. It put me on the right track.
ELLERY
How did you know?
MATT
(downs his shot)
Hard time destroys a mans ability
to feel empathy. When Ike got
upset, it had to be something else.
Guilt.

ELLERY

MATT
(nod to Pierre)
Or regret.
ELLERY
Im sorry about your brother.
MATT
Im an only child.
Wow.

ELLERY

Ellery shakes her head and sips her shot. Matts phone rings.
Born in the USA...
MATT
(into phone)
Hey... Yeah... Got it... Ill be
there.
(to Ellery)
Round 2. Lets go.
ELLERY
I told you Im done.

61.
MATT
You know I used to read Ellery
Queen when I was a kid.
ELLERY
My brother always said Ellery was a
boys name. He used to make fun of
me.
MATT
Its a good name. He solved every
crime.
(takes Ellerys hand)
You were born to do this. Were one
for one. You cant stop now.
Ellery smiles and nods.
MATT (CONTD)
So lets do this.
Matt stands, putting cash down on the counter. Ellery downs
the rest of her shot and they head out.
ELLERY
Lets do this.
EXT. HIGHLAND PARK - NIGHT
Police CRUISERS with flashing lights surround the scene. COPS
congregate near a BODY, covered with a TARP.
Matt and Ellery exit their SUV and approach the body.
MATT
Just one this time?
MONIQUE
Its your lucky day.
ID?

MATT

MONIQUE
Black male in his twenties. Shot
twice in the head and chest. Hes a
John Doe right now.
Matt crouches and lifts the tarp, revealing a FACE.
ELLERY
Oh my god. Its Antawan.

62.

Yep.

MATT

ELLERY
Did we do this?
MATT
Maybe. Maybe not. But thats life
in Detroit.
FADE TO BLACK.
THE END