Franklyn
02-23-2008, 05:13 PM
Hi, I was thinking that I may want to document some of the film making process to you guys. Now that we have this forum I figure I might as well use it. I'll warn you I ramble and when I am angry I definitely have spelling mistakes. But if you wanna read a little behind the scenes stuff, stick around.
OK cats, so I'm gonna focus on "Last Night in Brooklyn" because it's probably the reason any of you know us. Except Stugots who was married into the family,lol. I know everyone has been waiting patiently and in some cases not patiently. In fact some of you are veracious with your desire to see this film. We don't take that lightly. This is why I have decided if you are going to wait for this film I am going to start giving the behind the scenes tour of "Last Night In Brooklyn". I'll keep posting the progress and stories of how we got here until the film is done and you get to see it. Please feel free to comment on anything really. OK here we go.
This film started in the summer of 2005 as a short story called "Make a Wish". I was not familiar with the short story format but thought the class would be an easy A. I got an A but it wasn't easy at all. Condensing my random thoughts into a few pages was very difficult. I figured it may be fun for some of you to read. I hope you enjoy it. Next post will be about the day we deposited the money into the cypher bank account. It's a doosie. I almost ended up in jail or in the middle or another NYPD wallet scandal, lol. Stay tuned.
MAKE A WISH
By Franklyn
CHAPTER 1
As Allison watched the second hand make its journey around the clock on the wall of the video store, she realized that the last year had gone by faster than the one before. In fact every year was starting to go faster and faster…then why did it take so long for seven o’clock to come round? Allison had spent the last few moments compiling her yearly list of the birthday gifts she wanted more than anything else and never got. The list went as follows:
Roller-skates…her mom thought she would break her legs.
Malibu Barbie…her dad thought it made little girls whores.
Shrinky Dinks…Her mother thought they were toxic.
Pom-poms…her dad was on the football team and dated cheerleaders, he thought were whores.
An Easy Bake oven…A little girl in Queens burnt her families house down.
Cindy Lauper’s “She’s so Unusual”…Both parents didn’t like that.
Tickets to The “Care Bear Movie”, “Ice scapades” and Disney World…there was no time and or money.
A dual cassette Boom Box and two tone LA Gears…Her father thought it would attract the wrong crowd…a crowd that liked whores.
A GI JOE hovercraft…it was a boys toy.
A date with Optimus Prime…little girls cannot date cartoon characters, especial boy’s cartoon characters that are robots, that are also meant for boys.
The last two were different. A trip to the top of the Empire State building and a Boyfriend. These she never asked for. She had finally realized by twenty-two to stop expecting anything and started writing this yearly list. As she finished her list she titled it. “Allison’s list of lost Birthday wishes” ,folded it and put it into her wallet. By then Debbie was coming out of returning the Porno tapes to the back room.
Hey Debbie? What’s up? Has this year gone by faster to you than last year? Yeah, every year seems faster…You’ve lived more years so you have more of a reference to judge by. That makes sense. Allison was surprised to get an answer so quickly but Debbie was good with random answers. Debbie did a lot of acid and has discovered the meaning of life at least five times but always forgets it by 4 am. Allison has also done her fair share of drugs but usually watches the blood moving under her skin and realizes needs to get sun.
Hey Allison? What’s up? Adam wanted me to personally invite you to Brooklyn’s finest tonight. Why, what’s going on? I don’t know he didn’t tell me. I think he thinks I can’t keep a secret. It was true Debbie couldn’t keep a secret in a safe with out a key. I don’t know I have this funny feeling I should stay home tonight. I was actually wondering if you could cover for me tomorrow. If you come out tonight. Why do I have to be there? Because you can’t keep avoiding Adam. Why not? I’ve done a great job up till know.
Adam is the only man Allison had kissed in the three years she has been in Brooklyn, which isn’t bad if you think about the fact that in the twenty-two years in Seattle she had only kissed three boys. One was her cousin. One every three years was making Allison look like a slut next to her one every seven year days.
You should sleep with him tonight. What! No way… I’m not going, you’re going to embarrass me. I won’t…come on he’ll be mad if you don’t show up. No I really need to be home tonight. She pulls a video from the return pile and holds it up to Debbie. I’ve been dying to watch this and tonight’s the perfect night. What makes it an Ernest goes to camp night? You know how I love men with prominent noses…besides I love this movie. Why don’t you throw in the Piano and make it interesting. That Adrienne Brody’s got a honker on him…I’d let him tickle my ivories any day.
Eh-hmm! The two turn to the familiar sound of throat clear to see a woman standing with a copy of “The Hours” and “In Bedroom” in her hands. Can’t I rent these movies. Sorry miss, it’s seven o’clock the resisters are closed. Please come back tomorrow. Where’s your manager? Debbie this woman would like to speak to you. You’re the manager? Yes can I help you? You two should be more respectful to your customers. Thank you for your input miss. I’ll be sure to take that in consideration in the future. Please have a nice night. As the woman leaves Debbie turns to Allison. We’re meeting in ten minuets outside the store so count out quick. Here! Adam’s coming here tonight! Oh god my curse has begun early this year.
Debbie locks the front door and turns back to Allison. What are you taking about? Nothing… guess I’m just going to have to hang myself with RCA cables before he gets here. You’re some friend Debbie. You have no idea what I put up honey…no idea. Just be ready and take those glasses off, let your hair down, do something…Just come here. Allison cringes as Debbie tries to remodel her work outfit for a night on the town.
Over Allison’s shoulder Debbie notices a man with his face pressed up against the door. There they are. What? How do I look? Beautiful, one hot piece of ass mamma. Four other people appear at the door. Nadine, Derrick, Tara, Nancy and Adam where all standing in front of the store looking like hungry orphans. Hurry up I need a drink! Allison, open the door and let them in before Derrick gets taken away by security. Why couldn’t they just meet us at the bar? If they met us there you would have left before they had a chance to strengthen my pressure. You suck Debbie. Only if he deserves it…now open the door.
CHAPTER 2
The Video store was part of the Georgetown mall. It had a payless, Champagne video, a pizza shop, a party goods store and Brooklyn’s finest, a sports bar that attracted a very eclectic group of people. On a typical Thursday night you got quite a slice of the Brooklyn Demographic. East Flatbush brought your Hip-Hop crowd, while Mill Basin indie-rockers came by on their way to the lower East side to catch a show at Arlene’s Grocery. Blended with in the two are the sports fans of that season. At the moment it was football season.
Allison liked the Giants but didn’t want to talk about it. She liked to make believe she had no interest in sports. It seemed like all the girl’s the guys wanted didn’t watch. In fact they bonded on how much they didn’t like sports. Allison thought it was a great way to get a guy to take you anywhere the next night. “I had to hang out with you and your friends all night watching that terrible game. Tonight we should do something you are going to hate.” It was great.
Allison looked down at her watched and wondered what time will the cake come out and everyone burst into an impromptu rendition of Happy Birthday. Just then Adam looked at her and seemed to trying to connect with her in some cheesy romantic comedy film way.
Does he think I know what he means? Why is he looking at me like that? Oh…maybe a birthday kiss later. That’s great in. He does look pretty good these days. Is someone dressing him. Oh I hope not. God, I have not had one of the things I wished for on my birthday. This time I want the guy. I don’t care how wrong it is or how shallow he is…I just want the guy. What’s he doing.
Adam stands up, holding his beer and clears his throat. Attention everyone…I have an announcement to make. Here it is…finally…you know this has been kind of fun. Allison looks at Debbie who smiles drunkenly at her. Tomorrow is a very important day and I am glad we could all be here tonight. This has been a very difficult year and without friends like you I couldn’t have made it. Adam looks right at Allison and smiles knowingly, as if to say I couldn’t make it with out our night. Tomorrow I am moving to Hawaii with Nadine. We are going to go work on Nadine’s father’s Pineapple farm and surf.
Allison’s face sunk as time slowed down around her. She watched as a dart slowly left the hand of an older man with blue suspenders, Kaki shorts and a white T-shirt that had an American flag on it. There was moth circling a light hanging from the ceiling fan above the table behind them. The blades moved like drift wood creating currents that gently rocked the moth. The blades cast a shadow down the pull chain and onto the table below. A young Hispanic girl has just heard the funniest thing in the world and slowly knocks her glass off the table. The glass floats to the floor and the speed up right before it crashes with a deafening tone that pierces Alison’s ears and reminds her she hasn’t heard the funniest thing in the world. She notices that Debbie is staring at her and probably has since Adam starting speaking. The knowledge that Debbie knows how bad this is for her makes Allison’s moment that much worse.
Wow he looks like he is going to stop talking now. Wow I need to do something? There it is he stopped and now Derrick is congratulating him? Are they getting married? I must have missed that part. Now there’s Tara and Nancy’s looking at a ring. Oh I guess it’s my turn now. Debbie’s looking at me. Uh…say something. “Here’s to Pineapple’s!”
CHAPTER 3
Once 11:30 hit and people started “getting tired” Allison realized she had not come to a surprise party but to a “lets try to make Allison kill herself so we can grieve, get sympathy from other friends and be the most important people at the party, party” or at least that’s what she wanted to believe. She didn’t want to believe that after so many years of hopeless birthdays that she thought this one was going to be good and to actually start off as a surprise gathering. At least Debbie was there. She really didn’t know mush about Debbie but they had spent so much time together that it just made sense that they had to be friends. Strangely enough Debbie was her best friend.
So it’s just you and I kid. Do you want to stay out or want me to take you home. Allison thought over Debbie’s offer. I think I want to just chill for awhile. I didn’t know honey. I know…he knew you can’t keep a secret. Debbie hugs Allison and gives her a kiss. I love you girl. I love you too get home safe. Debbie gets up and stumbles to the door but not before noticing a “hood” opening a pack of Newport lights. Debbie had a thing for black guys and all guys had a thing for Debbie. You’re cute honey, walk a lady outside. And with that she was gone.
Allison sat at the empty table and waited for the clock to turn midnight. In all the years she lived in New York Allison never told anyone what day was her birthday. At first she was afraid of having a bad birthday in New York. She figured a bad Birthday in Seattle made you sad and might leave you with a hangover but one in Brooklyn might kill her. After the first year past and no one asked about her birthday she figured there was no reason to tell. From her table Allison watched to world go by and wondered why she was here. She drank her last drink. Wished herself a happy birthday and got up towards the door.
As she stumbled by the door she thought to herself, “Should I go home alone tonight.” As she said this Allison realizes that a young guy in a Jets hat was speaking to her. Hi…um. Allison could not believe this normal looking guy was actually talking to her. Hi…I’m Alli. She never called herself Alli. Uh…hi Alli I was wondering if I could I get by. Realizing she was still standing by the door and smoking was now banned in the city, she thought she should regain whatever dignity she had left. Yeah, I was just leaving. As her oblivious, potential one night stand walked past her to have a cigarette Allison realized that she would be alone tonight...again. Only twenty-four more hours of this and my life can get back to normal again.
Allison looked into her purse and realized the nice warm taxi in front of her was going somewhere other than her house because she had to go to the ATM machine across the strip mall. I can’t believe I bought a round of drink for those fuckers.
CHAPTER 4
The ATM was only a few yards away but after pounding back the drinks it might as well have been two miles away. Allison pulls out her bank card and slips it into the slot to open the door. As the beep goes off Allison remembers how many things beep at her through out the day. She becomes aware of the audio attack electronics have waged against her. From her alarm clock screaming at her in the morning to the store alarm system, her day was a series of beeps and buzzes.
This feeling was set off by Allison’s first nightmare. All she could see was a white background with a red dot in the center. Very reminiscent of the Japanese flag. The dot slowly moved upwards stopped with a beep and then slowly moved down to the bottom and stopped with a beep. This pattern continued but with each beep the speed picked up until the dot was a solid red line and the beep was a constant high pitched ring. Very reminiscent of a test of the emergency broadcast service that interrupts Radio and TV shows. Funny thing about that service…When the trade center came down, she was glued to the TV, whenever she wasn’t watching burning papers fall from the sky. The entire day she didn’t hear it once. In fact she didn’t hear any beeps all day.
As Allison puts her money into her wallet, she thinks about her years in New York. She has also realized that the dot could be her and it’s motion was her life and that one day that it will end with a straight red line and a constant beep. As she leaves the ATM a tear comes out of her eyes and begins to freeze down her cheek. It is quickly thawed by a series of others that blur the parking lot and turn the street lights into a sea of stars dancing around her. Now this feels like my Birthday…a few more hours and it will be over. As she walks towards the other end of the strip mall, an arm reaches around her and stops her motion.
Don’t scream… Don’t move… I don’t want to do this but I am in trouble and need to take your money… I am not going to hurt you but you have no reason to believe that, so believe that this is a real big gun that will make a real big hole in you if you try anything.
For the first time she felt the gun in her back. Ironically the mugger had stopped her tears and she felt strangely calm. She had no control over the situation and it didn’t really bother her.
Walk with me towards the dumpster…don’t turn around or scream.
Allison began thinking about her family. She has never gone back to Seattle since she left it. I should have called more. I wonder if he is going to kill me? It’s too cold to rape me. What kind of trouble is he in? I wonder if I can talk him down with my negotiating skills. I should have called my parents more. Allison realized that she has never seen her sister’s first baby and now she may never. She knew better to make that her birthday wish this year. Is he going to kill me? That would be a sucky way for Debbie to find out it was her birthday. “Girl found behind dumpster on her birthday“. Allison didn’t really know too much about Debbie but she knew she cared for her. I should have told her. If he takes my wallet they may not know who I am. Body found behind dumpster. Suddenly Allison began to get scared.
I’m not fucking playing chick… if ask you again I am going to shoot! Give me your purse. Allison realized she wasn’t paying attention and gave the man her purse. Suddenly she heard two men running towards them. “Look there he is! Don’t make us run you mother fucker!” Allison’s pulse started to race as she felt the panic in her assailant. Before she could say anything she again felt the pressure of the gun and then heard the shot fire.
As the ground slowly came up to her head she could see her attacker being chased by two men. She could hardly make out his face but could tell he was not looking at them…he was trying to look at her. Right before her head and the floor met the world sped up giving her enough momentum for the impact to knock her out. Allison thought to herself, “I’m so cold…fucking birthdays”.
CHAPTER 5
Warm liquid was pouring down Allison’s face. Oh my God…I got shot in the head. She strained to open her eyes and had a realization. I got shot in the head and I have a hangover. As the sun pierced her eyes like hot, grainy iron, she saw a particularly slobbery pit bull drooling on her face. She wipes her hand across her face and notices that her blood is clear and not blood at all but a nights worth of pit bull drool.
Wow, I guess I should thank you. The dog licked her face again. Ok, rule number one…I’m sure you have had all the licking that I can tolerate for the remainder of our relationship. Allison got up and looked at herself. In one night on the street she looked like a seasoned homeless person. Her Seattle sense of fashion didn’t help the situation but her lack of money, ID’s and keys did solidify her look. As she walked back home the drooling pit bull remained three feet behind her. I’ll probably get a ticket for not having you on a leash you know. Although she hadn’t really been too nice to the dog she realized that it was probably the only thing that kept her alive and unharmed all night.
When she got to her door she rang her landladies bell. She looked into the window next to the step. Mrs. Russo! Mrs. Russo are you there. I’m coming… I’m coming…what’s your problem? I wish you were this excited with the rent…Oh my…come in child. Mrs. Russo leads Allison inside and doesn’t realize she has also let in the drooling dog who goes up the stairs as if he could smell the trail to Allison’s apartment. When Allison goes into Mrs. Russo’s apartment the dog cocks his head in confusion and comes down barking.
Oh great Jesus! Allison grabs the barking dog and it calms down. I’m sorry Mrs. Russo…the dog saved me last night I was mugged. Oh dear we must call the police and for you we must get you a reward. You two just stay right there. Thank you Mrs. Russo but I just want to get washed up and go to sleep. Mrs. Russo continues walking to the kitchen and comes back with a plate of lasagna and places it in front of the drooling dog and hands a cup of tea to Allison. I’m sorry I am sitting on your furniture I am so dirty. Dear what do you think the plastic’s for…besides I can’t take it with me. Just drink up and I’ll call the police.
CHAPTER 6
The door bell rings and Allison wakes up to the drooling dog barking. Honey please put you dog in the bathroom until the officers leave. In a daze she gets up and ushers the dog over to her. OK Mrs. Russo…one second. The two walk over to the bathroom. Ok…you have to be good…I’ll be right back. Allison closes the door and hears the dog crying but not barking. She turns to see two police officers standing at the door.
Allison has always distrusted cops, well not always. When she was a kid she used to look at them like public heroes who tried to help people but she also wanted to date Optimus Prime. Now as an adult in New York she had a different opinion on the cops but at this moment she was going to have to go through the motions. She knew there was nothing they could do. She hadn’t seen the guy so this case was going to get filed. She would be lucky if she got a phone call about it later.
After being questioned for half an hour Allison was relieved that the cops were on there way out. In fact for the last ten minuets all she could think of was a shower and if the drooling dog would like the smell of the blunt she was about to roll. As Mrs. Russo walked the cops out she gathered herself. Which wasn’t too hard since she only had her shoes and the clothes she was wearing.
Mrs. Russo do you have a copy of the key upstairs? Why yes dear I’ll get it for you. Mrs. Russo returned with the key and let the dog out of the bathroom. Allison had forgotten that she now had a dog and figured she should name him. Actually she didn’t even know if he was a him. Either way it was time to go upstairs. As she left Mrs. Russo’s apartment the drooling dog ran towards the front door. I think somebody need to go pooh-pooh. I think your right. What were the chances of her finding a house broken dog. She opened the door and realized the dog was a boy.
CHAPTER 7
Allison follows her dog up the stairs and they both seemed surprised by what they saw. There is a large perfectly wrapped gift in front of her door. Allison thinks to herself. Did I tell Mrs. Russo it was my birthday? Allison maneuvers around the package and opens the door. She pushes it inside and closes the door. When she opens the gift she finds another wrapped box inside with her purse, her wallet and keys on top of it with a note. I am so sorry to have robbed you on your birthday. Please accept my apology. She opens her wallet and finds her hundred dollars but with four more right next to it. Suddenly she wonders if the mugger is in the house.
Allison gets up and looks around. She picks up the knife she used to open the box and slowly walks around. The drooling dog looks up at her then lays back down. Room by room Allison searches every closet and under the bed before she walks back into the living room and looks at the sleeping dog. I guess I should have know we were alone. She bends down and rubs his ear. I need to name this dog. Then she looks back at the box and remembers there was another box.
Allison tries to pick up the box and decides to just cut it open. Inside were three other boxes, all wrapped. The first was a pair of roller-skates, not roller blades but a pair of white roller-skates with pink pom-poms and pink wheels, that were actually her size. With them came a note that said “I hope these are your size”. The second box had Cindy Lauper’s she’s so unusual in it. By now Allison was crying. Partially because the mugger had read her yearly list of gifts she hasn’t got but partially because he actually took the time out to get them. The third box was filled with shredded paper. As she searched the box she found nothing but a metro card for the New York City train line, taped to a note that said “meet me at the top of the Empire State building at 5pm…please don’t call the cops.” Allison wonders what she should do. She decides to name the sleeping, drooling dog “Wish”.
CHAPTER 8
Allison, still sitting at the table, finds a space among the multi colored, shredded paper to crack open a Philly and dump its innards. After stuffing it she licks it and leaves it on the table to dry next to the metro card. This was one of the talents learned in Brooklyn that wouldn’t make it’s way home in a story. After a moment of wondering what to do Allison headed for the bathroom.
The bathroom was always a great place for Allison to think, the shower especially. With all the clothes she was wearing the night before, she steps into the shower stall and turns on the water. As the water falls down her long dark hair, it adds weight to her neck. Quickly the water continues down her shoulders causing the threads of her clothing to expand and stretch towards her thighs that were now wrapped in wet denim. Her feet felt like boulders, rooting her to the tiles. With every passing moment Allison’s body became heavier and heavier. Pulling at her shoulders. This was a feeling she had become accustomed to over the years. The unnatural weight distracted her from whatever she was worried about this time. When she was completely preoccupied with her body, Allison slowly disrobed.
As she peeled away each layer of clothing, she felt the weight of the world lift from her. Her toes felt free as if they never felt the cold tile and grout under them. Her arms stretched upwards allowing her to feel each droplet hitting her stomach and sliding down her thigh. She ran her hands through her hair and felt the spray on her scalp. After one last slow rotation of her neck Allison turned off the water and walked out of the shower into the kitchen.
Living in one of the taller buildings on the block had the benefit of being able to stand and look at the world, with out the world looking at you. With the exception of the occasional roofer, Allison was free to stand there and soak in the world in peace as she dried. Until she realizes that Wish is lapping up the puddle collecting at her feet. She took another drag of the blunt she was waiting so patiently for and blew it towards Wish. This would mark the first time she shared her shower tradition with anyone else. A definite change but not to bad…at least I don’t have to mop this time.
Allison looks at the Metro card on the table and wonders. She looks at the clock and realized that if she didn’t put any effort into getting ready and out of the house, she would still have time to catch her mugger by five. What do you think Wish? Wish stops drinking Allison’s run off, raises and ear then remembers he wanted to go to the bathroom. He starts to sniff around the door. No! No, no, no, no, no…I’m getting ready, look. Please wait! Allison runs to the bedroom and slips on a little puddle Wish left over. As she lay there naked on the linoleum, a smile forced it’s way into a chuckle. You missed a spot guy.
CHAPTER 9
After Allison cleans her first pooh, she decides to go into Manhattan. I need to get a collar for Wish or he’ll get taken away. Everyone knows the best pet stores are in Manhattan around the Empire State building... Right? I can’t believe I’m going to do this. I am not even on the train and I know I am going to do this. Not twenty four hours ago I was in an alley with a gun to my back after going to what was supposed to be a surprise party, thrown by Adam to confess his undying love to me but instead of lying in his arms I am going to Manhattan to meet a man that tried to kill me. By the time Allison thought to ask why she was doing this she was already at 34th street on the “Q” diamond train. She reminded herself that he actually bought her roller skates and that was enough to get her off the train. By the time she got to the top of the stairs however it was not enough.
What the hell am I doing? This guy could kill me. He tried to…well he didn’t actually try to kill me but he did rob me…or forcefully borrowed money from me…well forcefully invested money for me…fuck! By now she was standing in front of the Empire State building. It seemed a lot less grand at ground level. In fact she was looking right into a Duane Read at an older lady who was picking up a disposable camera. This woman didn‘t look like she could see let alone shoot pictures but she was ready. If this woman still had moments in life to remember, Allison sure as hell was going to try to make some of her own.
As Allison rode up the elevator she listened to the older woman talk about how long she wanted to come to the top of the building and how ready she was to take the pictures she looked at her whole life. Allison realized he had no pictures. Not one picture of her three years in New York. If she had disappeared last night, there would be physical evidence of her existence. She even paid Mrs. Russo her rent and utilities in cash.
As the doors opened on to the observatory a gust of wind blew through and pushed back the old woman who busted out with laughter and managed to be the first person out of the elevator. Allison lagged behind and left the elevator last. She scanned all the men that were there. Suddenly after about five or six men she caught a glimpse of the city that she had come to know as home for so long. Her heart swelled as the setting sun painted the skyline gold and pink. Allison’s big green eyes widened and welled up as she realized this was the best birthday she had ever had in her life.
I’m glad you came. The voice came from behind her and was identical to the voice last night. Allison turned suddenly and punched the source of the sound before she even looked at him. For a first punch it wasn’t amateur. If not for the railing to slow his fall this man would have been laid out. In fact his arm was more wedged in between the railing than holding on to it. As she bent down to help him a crowd began to form.
It’s OK…I’m alright…I robed her at gunpoint yesterday, only kidding miss. Allison tries not to laugh as the crowd disperses. I’m so sorry…I’ve never hit anyone before. I kind of had it coming. Allison thought to herself…yeah you did have it coming and stood up, almost glaring at the humbled kind of sorry looking man on the floor. He had on a beat up brown corduroy jacket and floppy brown hair, that hadn’t been combed tonight...but he still robbed me she thought…even if he is cute. My name is Diggs. I’m sorry for what I did to you. You should be. I am. Well good. I’m Allison thanks for the skates. Your welcome thanks for the money…want to continue your list?
There’s more? Allison thought for a moment about how ridiculous talking to this man was but hitting this man took all the anger she had towards him away. He gave her four times what he stole in cash and already was better at her birthday that anyone she ever met. She took a deep breathe and said “Yes, but we have to stay in public.”
OK cats, so I'm gonna focus on "Last Night in Brooklyn" because it's probably the reason any of you know us. Except Stugots who was married into the family,lol. I know everyone has been waiting patiently and in some cases not patiently. In fact some of you are veracious with your desire to see this film. We don't take that lightly. This is why I have decided if you are going to wait for this film I am going to start giving the behind the scenes tour of "Last Night In Brooklyn". I'll keep posting the progress and stories of how we got here until the film is done and you get to see it. Please feel free to comment on anything really. OK here we go.
This film started in the summer of 2005 as a short story called "Make a Wish". I was not familiar with the short story format but thought the class would be an easy A. I got an A but it wasn't easy at all. Condensing my random thoughts into a few pages was very difficult. I figured it may be fun for some of you to read. I hope you enjoy it. Next post will be about the day we deposited the money into the cypher bank account. It's a doosie. I almost ended up in jail or in the middle or another NYPD wallet scandal, lol. Stay tuned.
MAKE A WISH
By Franklyn
CHAPTER 1
As Allison watched the second hand make its journey around the clock on the wall of the video store, she realized that the last year had gone by faster than the one before. In fact every year was starting to go faster and faster…then why did it take so long for seven o’clock to come round? Allison had spent the last few moments compiling her yearly list of the birthday gifts she wanted more than anything else and never got. The list went as follows:
Roller-skates…her mom thought she would break her legs.
Malibu Barbie…her dad thought it made little girls whores.
Shrinky Dinks…Her mother thought they were toxic.
Pom-poms…her dad was on the football team and dated cheerleaders, he thought were whores.
An Easy Bake oven…A little girl in Queens burnt her families house down.
Cindy Lauper’s “She’s so Unusual”…Both parents didn’t like that.
Tickets to The “Care Bear Movie”, “Ice scapades” and Disney World…there was no time and or money.
A dual cassette Boom Box and two tone LA Gears…Her father thought it would attract the wrong crowd…a crowd that liked whores.
A GI JOE hovercraft…it was a boys toy.
A date with Optimus Prime…little girls cannot date cartoon characters, especial boy’s cartoon characters that are robots, that are also meant for boys.
The last two were different. A trip to the top of the Empire State building and a Boyfriend. These she never asked for. She had finally realized by twenty-two to stop expecting anything and started writing this yearly list. As she finished her list she titled it. “Allison’s list of lost Birthday wishes” ,folded it and put it into her wallet. By then Debbie was coming out of returning the Porno tapes to the back room.
Hey Debbie? What’s up? Has this year gone by faster to you than last year? Yeah, every year seems faster…You’ve lived more years so you have more of a reference to judge by. That makes sense. Allison was surprised to get an answer so quickly but Debbie was good with random answers. Debbie did a lot of acid and has discovered the meaning of life at least five times but always forgets it by 4 am. Allison has also done her fair share of drugs but usually watches the blood moving under her skin and realizes needs to get sun.
Hey Allison? What’s up? Adam wanted me to personally invite you to Brooklyn’s finest tonight. Why, what’s going on? I don’t know he didn’t tell me. I think he thinks I can’t keep a secret. It was true Debbie couldn’t keep a secret in a safe with out a key. I don’t know I have this funny feeling I should stay home tonight. I was actually wondering if you could cover for me tomorrow. If you come out tonight. Why do I have to be there? Because you can’t keep avoiding Adam. Why not? I’ve done a great job up till know.
Adam is the only man Allison had kissed in the three years she has been in Brooklyn, which isn’t bad if you think about the fact that in the twenty-two years in Seattle she had only kissed three boys. One was her cousin. One every three years was making Allison look like a slut next to her one every seven year days.
You should sleep with him tonight. What! No way… I’m not going, you’re going to embarrass me. I won’t…come on he’ll be mad if you don’t show up. No I really need to be home tonight. She pulls a video from the return pile and holds it up to Debbie. I’ve been dying to watch this and tonight’s the perfect night. What makes it an Ernest goes to camp night? You know how I love men with prominent noses…besides I love this movie. Why don’t you throw in the Piano and make it interesting. That Adrienne Brody’s got a honker on him…I’d let him tickle my ivories any day.
Eh-hmm! The two turn to the familiar sound of throat clear to see a woman standing with a copy of “The Hours” and “In Bedroom” in her hands. Can’t I rent these movies. Sorry miss, it’s seven o’clock the resisters are closed. Please come back tomorrow. Where’s your manager? Debbie this woman would like to speak to you. You’re the manager? Yes can I help you? You two should be more respectful to your customers. Thank you for your input miss. I’ll be sure to take that in consideration in the future. Please have a nice night. As the woman leaves Debbie turns to Allison. We’re meeting in ten minuets outside the store so count out quick. Here! Adam’s coming here tonight! Oh god my curse has begun early this year.
Debbie locks the front door and turns back to Allison. What are you taking about? Nothing… guess I’m just going to have to hang myself with RCA cables before he gets here. You’re some friend Debbie. You have no idea what I put up honey…no idea. Just be ready and take those glasses off, let your hair down, do something…Just come here. Allison cringes as Debbie tries to remodel her work outfit for a night on the town.
Over Allison’s shoulder Debbie notices a man with his face pressed up against the door. There they are. What? How do I look? Beautiful, one hot piece of ass mamma. Four other people appear at the door. Nadine, Derrick, Tara, Nancy and Adam where all standing in front of the store looking like hungry orphans. Hurry up I need a drink! Allison, open the door and let them in before Derrick gets taken away by security. Why couldn’t they just meet us at the bar? If they met us there you would have left before they had a chance to strengthen my pressure. You suck Debbie. Only if he deserves it…now open the door.
CHAPTER 2
The Video store was part of the Georgetown mall. It had a payless, Champagne video, a pizza shop, a party goods store and Brooklyn’s finest, a sports bar that attracted a very eclectic group of people. On a typical Thursday night you got quite a slice of the Brooklyn Demographic. East Flatbush brought your Hip-Hop crowd, while Mill Basin indie-rockers came by on their way to the lower East side to catch a show at Arlene’s Grocery. Blended with in the two are the sports fans of that season. At the moment it was football season.
Allison liked the Giants but didn’t want to talk about it. She liked to make believe she had no interest in sports. It seemed like all the girl’s the guys wanted didn’t watch. In fact they bonded on how much they didn’t like sports. Allison thought it was a great way to get a guy to take you anywhere the next night. “I had to hang out with you and your friends all night watching that terrible game. Tonight we should do something you are going to hate.” It was great.
Allison looked down at her watched and wondered what time will the cake come out and everyone burst into an impromptu rendition of Happy Birthday. Just then Adam looked at her and seemed to trying to connect with her in some cheesy romantic comedy film way.
Does he think I know what he means? Why is he looking at me like that? Oh…maybe a birthday kiss later. That’s great in. He does look pretty good these days. Is someone dressing him. Oh I hope not. God, I have not had one of the things I wished for on my birthday. This time I want the guy. I don’t care how wrong it is or how shallow he is…I just want the guy. What’s he doing.
Adam stands up, holding his beer and clears his throat. Attention everyone…I have an announcement to make. Here it is…finally…you know this has been kind of fun. Allison looks at Debbie who smiles drunkenly at her. Tomorrow is a very important day and I am glad we could all be here tonight. This has been a very difficult year and without friends like you I couldn’t have made it. Adam looks right at Allison and smiles knowingly, as if to say I couldn’t make it with out our night. Tomorrow I am moving to Hawaii with Nadine. We are going to go work on Nadine’s father’s Pineapple farm and surf.
Allison’s face sunk as time slowed down around her. She watched as a dart slowly left the hand of an older man with blue suspenders, Kaki shorts and a white T-shirt that had an American flag on it. There was moth circling a light hanging from the ceiling fan above the table behind them. The blades moved like drift wood creating currents that gently rocked the moth. The blades cast a shadow down the pull chain and onto the table below. A young Hispanic girl has just heard the funniest thing in the world and slowly knocks her glass off the table. The glass floats to the floor and the speed up right before it crashes with a deafening tone that pierces Alison’s ears and reminds her she hasn’t heard the funniest thing in the world. She notices that Debbie is staring at her and probably has since Adam starting speaking. The knowledge that Debbie knows how bad this is for her makes Allison’s moment that much worse.
Wow he looks like he is going to stop talking now. Wow I need to do something? There it is he stopped and now Derrick is congratulating him? Are they getting married? I must have missed that part. Now there’s Tara and Nancy’s looking at a ring. Oh I guess it’s my turn now. Debbie’s looking at me. Uh…say something. “Here’s to Pineapple’s!”
CHAPTER 3
Once 11:30 hit and people started “getting tired” Allison realized she had not come to a surprise party but to a “lets try to make Allison kill herself so we can grieve, get sympathy from other friends and be the most important people at the party, party” or at least that’s what she wanted to believe. She didn’t want to believe that after so many years of hopeless birthdays that she thought this one was going to be good and to actually start off as a surprise gathering. At least Debbie was there. She really didn’t know mush about Debbie but they had spent so much time together that it just made sense that they had to be friends. Strangely enough Debbie was her best friend.
So it’s just you and I kid. Do you want to stay out or want me to take you home. Allison thought over Debbie’s offer. I think I want to just chill for awhile. I didn’t know honey. I know…he knew you can’t keep a secret. Debbie hugs Allison and gives her a kiss. I love you girl. I love you too get home safe. Debbie gets up and stumbles to the door but not before noticing a “hood” opening a pack of Newport lights. Debbie had a thing for black guys and all guys had a thing for Debbie. You’re cute honey, walk a lady outside. And with that she was gone.
Allison sat at the empty table and waited for the clock to turn midnight. In all the years she lived in New York Allison never told anyone what day was her birthday. At first she was afraid of having a bad birthday in New York. She figured a bad Birthday in Seattle made you sad and might leave you with a hangover but one in Brooklyn might kill her. After the first year past and no one asked about her birthday she figured there was no reason to tell. From her table Allison watched to world go by and wondered why she was here. She drank her last drink. Wished herself a happy birthday and got up towards the door.
As she stumbled by the door she thought to herself, “Should I go home alone tonight.” As she said this Allison realizes that a young guy in a Jets hat was speaking to her. Hi…um. Allison could not believe this normal looking guy was actually talking to her. Hi…I’m Alli. She never called herself Alli. Uh…hi Alli I was wondering if I could I get by. Realizing she was still standing by the door and smoking was now banned in the city, she thought she should regain whatever dignity she had left. Yeah, I was just leaving. As her oblivious, potential one night stand walked past her to have a cigarette Allison realized that she would be alone tonight...again. Only twenty-four more hours of this and my life can get back to normal again.
Allison looked into her purse and realized the nice warm taxi in front of her was going somewhere other than her house because she had to go to the ATM machine across the strip mall. I can’t believe I bought a round of drink for those fuckers.
CHAPTER 4
The ATM was only a few yards away but after pounding back the drinks it might as well have been two miles away. Allison pulls out her bank card and slips it into the slot to open the door. As the beep goes off Allison remembers how many things beep at her through out the day. She becomes aware of the audio attack electronics have waged against her. From her alarm clock screaming at her in the morning to the store alarm system, her day was a series of beeps and buzzes.
This feeling was set off by Allison’s first nightmare. All she could see was a white background with a red dot in the center. Very reminiscent of the Japanese flag. The dot slowly moved upwards stopped with a beep and then slowly moved down to the bottom and stopped with a beep. This pattern continued but with each beep the speed picked up until the dot was a solid red line and the beep was a constant high pitched ring. Very reminiscent of a test of the emergency broadcast service that interrupts Radio and TV shows. Funny thing about that service…When the trade center came down, she was glued to the TV, whenever she wasn’t watching burning papers fall from the sky. The entire day she didn’t hear it once. In fact she didn’t hear any beeps all day.
As Allison puts her money into her wallet, she thinks about her years in New York. She has also realized that the dot could be her and it’s motion was her life and that one day that it will end with a straight red line and a constant beep. As she leaves the ATM a tear comes out of her eyes and begins to freeze down her cheek. It is quickly thawed by a series of others that blur the parking lot and turn the street lights into a sea of stars dancing around her. Now this feels like my Birthday…a few more hours and it will be over. As she walks towards the other end of the strip mall, an arm reaches around her and stops her motion.
Don’t scream… Don’t move… I don’t want to do this but I am in trouble and need to take your money… I am not going to hurt you but you have no reason to believe that, so believe that this is a real big gun that will make a real big hole in you if you try anything.
For the first time she felt the gun in her back. Ironically the mugger had stopped her tears and she felt strangely calm. She had no control over the situation and it didn’t really bother her.
Walk with me towards the dumpster…don’t turn around or scream.
Allison began thinking about her family. She has never gone back to Seattle since she left it. I should have called more. I wonder if he is going to kill me? It’s too cold to rape me. What kind of trouble is he in? I wonder if I can talk him down with my negotiating skills. I should have called my parents more. Allison realized that she has never seen her sister’s first baby and now she may never. She knew better to make that her birthday wish this year. Is he going to kill me? That would be a sucky way for Debbie to find out it was her birthday. “Girl found behind dumpster on her birthday“. Allison didn’t really know too much about Debbie but she knew she cared for her. I should have told her. If he takes my wallet they may not know who I am. Body found behind dumpster. Suddenly Allison began to get scared.
I’m not fucking playing chick… if ask you again I am going to shoot! Give me your purse. Allison realized she wasn’t paying attention and gave the man her purse. Suddenly she heard two men running towards them. “Look there he is! Don’t make us run you mother fucker!” Allison’s pulse started to race as she felt the panic in her assailant. Before she could say anything she again felt the pressure of the gun and then heard the shot fire.
As the ground slowly came up to her head she could see her attacker being chased by two men. She could hardly make out his face but could tell he was not looking at them…he was trying to look at her. Right before her head and the floor met the world sped up giving her enough momentum for the impact to knock her out. Allison thought to herself, “I’m so cold…fucking birthdays”.
CHAPTER 5
Warm liquid was pouring down Allison’s face. Oh my God…I got shot in the head. She strained to open her eyes and had a realization. I got shot in the head and I have a hangover. As the sun pierced her eyes like hot, grainy iron, she saw a particularly slobbery pit bull drooling on her face. She wipes her hand across her face and notices that her blood is clear and not blood at all but a nights worth of pit bull drool.
Wow, I guess I should thank you. The dog licked her face again. Ok, rule number one…I’m sure you have had all the licking that I can tolerate for the remainder of our relationship. Allison got up and looked at herself. In one night on the street she looked like a seasoned homeless person. Her Seattle sense of fashion didn’t help the situation but her lack of money, ID’s and keys did solidify her look. As she walked back home the drooling pit bull remained three feet behind her. I’ll probably get a ticket for not having you on a leash you know. Although she hadn’t really been too nice to the dog she realized that it was probably the only thing that kept her alive and unharmed all night.
When she got to her door she rang her landladies bell. She looked into the window next to the step. Mrs. Russo! Mrs. Russo are you there. I’m coming… I’m coming…what’s your problem? I wish you were this excited with the rent…Oh my…come in child. Mrs. Russo leads Allison inside and doesn’t realize she has also let in the drooling dog who goes up the stairs as if he could smell the trail to Allison’s apartment. When Allison goes into Mrs. Russo’s apartment the dog cocks his head in confusion and comes down barking.
Oh great Jesus! Allison grabs the barking dog and it calms down. I’m sorry Mrs. Russo…the dog saved me last night I was mugged. Oh dear we must call the police and for you we must get you a reward. You two just stay right there. Thank you Mrs. Russo but I just want to get washed up and go to sleep. Mrs. Russo continues walking to the kitchen and comes back with a plate of lasagna and places it in front of the drooling dog and hands a cup of tea to Allison. I’m sorry I am sitting on your furniture I am so dirty. Dear what do you think the plastic’s for…besides I can’t take it with me. Just drink up and I’ll call the police.
CHAPTER 6
The door bell rings and Allison wakes up to the drooling dog barking. Honey please put you dog in the bathroom until the officers leave. In a daze she gets up and ushers the dog over to her. OK Mrs. Russo…one second. The two walk over to the bathroom. Ok…you have to be good…I’ll be right back. Allison closes the door and hears the dog crying but not barking. She turns to see two police officers standing at the door.
Allison has always distrusted cops, well not always. When she was a kid she used to look at them like public heroes who tried to help people but she also wanted to date Optimus Prime. Now as an adult in New York she had a different opinion on the cops but at this moment she was going to have to go through the motions. She knew there was nothing they could do. She hadn’t seen the guy so this case was going to get filed. She would be lucky if she got a phone call about it later.
After being questioned for half an hour Allison was relieved that the cops were on there way out. In fact for the last ten minuets all she could think of was a shower and if the drooling dog would like the smell of the blunt she was about to roll. As Mrs. Russo walked the cops out she gathered herself. Which wasn’t too hard since she only had her shoes and the clothes she was wearing.
Mrs. Russo do you have a copy of the key upstairs? Why yes dear I’ll get it for you. Mrs. Russo returned with the key and let the dog out of the bathroom. Allison had forgotten that she now had a dog and figured she should name him. Actually she didn’t even know if he was a him. Either way it was time to go upstairs. As she left Mrs. Russo’s apartment the drooling dog ran towards the front door. I think somebody need to go pooh-pooh. I think your right. What were the chances of her finding a house broken dog. She opened the door and realized the dog was a boy.
CHAPTER 7
Allison follows her dog up the stairs and they both seemed surprised by what they saw. There is a large perfectly wrapped gift in front of her door. Allison thinks to herself. Did I tell Mrs. Russo it was my birthday? Allison maneuvers around the package and opens the door. She pushes it inside and closes the door. When she opens the gift she finds another wrapped box inside with her purse, her wallet and keys on top of it with a note. I am so sorry to have robbed you on your birthday. Please accept my apology. She opens her wallet and finds her hundred dollars but with four more right next to it. Suddenly she wonders if the mugger is in the house.
Allison gets up and looks around. She picks up the knife she used to open the box and slowly walks around. The drooling dog looks up at her then lays back down. Room by room Allison searches every closet and under the bed before she walks back into the living room and looks at the sleeping dog. I guess I should have know we were alone. She bends down and rubs his ear. I need to name this dog. Then she looks back at the box and remembers there was another box.
Allison tries to pick up the box and decides to just cut it open. Inside were three other boxes, all wrapped. The first was a pair of roller-skates, not roller blades but a pair of white roller-skates with pink pom-poms and pink wheels, that were actually her size. With them came a note that said “I hope these are your size”. The second box had Cindy Lauper’s she’s so unusual in it. By now Allison was crying. Partially because the mugger had read her yearly list of gifts she hasn’t got but partially because he actually took the time out to get them. The third box was filled with shredded paper. As she searched the box she found nothing but a metro card for the New York City train line, taped to a note that said “meet me at the top of the Empire State building at 5pm…please don’t call the cops.” Allison wonders what she should do. She decides to name the sleeping, drooling dog “Wish”.
CHAPTER 8
Allison, still sitting at the table, finds a space among the multi colored, shredded paper to crack open a Philly and dump its innards. After stuffing it she licks it and leaves it on the table to dry next to the metro card. This was one of the talents learned in Brooklyn that wouldn’t make it’s way home in a story. After a moment of wondering what to do Allison headed for the bathroom.
The bathroom was always a great place for Allison to think, the shower especially. With all the clothes she was wearing the night before, she steps into the shower stall and turns on the water. As the water falls down her long dark hair, it adds weight to her neck. Quickly the water continues down her shoulders causing the threads of her clothing to expand and stretch towards her thighs that were now wrapped in wet denim. Her feet felt like boulders, rooting her to the tiles. With every passing moment Allison’s body became heavier and heavier. Pulling at her shoulders. This was a feeling she had become accustomed to over the years. The unnatural weight distracted her from whatever she was worried about this time. When she was completely preoccupied with her body, Allison slowly disrobed.
As she peeled away each layer of clothing, she felt the weight of the world lift from her. Her toes felt free as if they never felt the cold tile and grout under them. Her arms stretched upwards allowing her to feel each droplet hitting her stomach and sliding down her thigh. She ran her hands through her hair and felt the spray on her scalp. After one last slow rotation of her neck Allison turned off the water and walked out of the shower into the kitchen.
Living in one of the taller buildings on the block had the benefit of being able to stand and look at the world, with out the world looking at you. With the exception of the occasional roofer, Allison was free to stand there and soak in the world in peace as she dried. Until she realizes that Wish is lapping up the puddle collecting at her feet. She took another drag of the blunt she was waiting so patiently for and blew it towards Wish. This would mark the first time she shared her shower tradition with anyone else. A definite change but not to bad…at least I don’t have to mop this time.
Allison looks at the Metro card on the table and wonders. She looks at the clock and realized that if she didn’t put any effort into getting ready and out of the house, she would still have time to catch her mugger by five. What do you think Wish? Wish stops drinking Allison’s run off, raises and ear then remembers he wanted to go to the bathroom. He starts to sniff around the door. No! No, no, no, no, no…I’m getting ready, look. Please wait! Allison runs to the bedroom and slips on a little puddle Wish left over. As she lay there naked on the linoleum, a smile forced it’s way into a chuckle. You missed a spot guy.
CHAPTER 9
After Allison cleans her first pooh, she decides to go into Manhattan. I need to get a collar for Wish or he’ll get taken away. Everyone knows the best pet stores are in Manhattan around the Empire State building... Right? I can’t believe I’m going to do this. I am not even on the train and I know I am going to do this. Not twenty four hours ago I was in an alley with a gun to my back after going to what was supposed to be a surprise party, thrown by Adam to confess his undying love to me but instead of lying in his arms I am going to Manhattan to meet a man that tried to kill me. By the time Allison thought to ask why she was doing this she was already at 34th street on the “Q” diamond train. She reminded herself that he actually bought her roller skates and that was enough to get her off the train. By the time she got to the top of the stairs however it was not enough.
What the hell am I doing? This guy could kill me. He tried to…well he didn’t actually try to kill me but he did rob me…or forcefully borrowed money from me…well forcefully invested money for me…fuck! By now she was standing in front of the Empire State building. It seemed a lot less grand at ground level. In fact she was looking right into a Duane Read at an older lady who was picking up a disposable camera. This woman didn‘t look like she could see let alone shoot pictures but she was ready. If this woman still had moments in life to remember, Allison sure as hell was going to try to make some of her own.
As Allison rode up the elevator she listened to the older woman talk about how long she wanted to come to the top of the building and how ready she was to take the pictures she looked at her whole life. Allison realized he had no pictures. Not one picture of her three years in New York. If she had disappeared last night, there would be physical evidence of her existence. She even paid Mrs. Russo her rent and utilities in cash.
As the doors opened on to the observatory a gust of wind blew through and pushed back the old woman who busted out with laughter and managed to be the first person out of the elevator. Allison lagged behind and left the elevator last. She scanned all the men that were there. Suddenly after about five or six men she caught a glimpse of the city that she had come to know as home for so long. Her heart swelled as the setting sun painted the skyline gold and pink. Allison’s big green eyes widened and welled up as she realized this was the best birthday she had ever had in her life.
I’m glad you came. The voice came from behind her and was identical to the voice last night. Allison turned suddenly and punched the source of the sound before she even looked at him. For a first punch it wasn’t amateur. If not for the railing to slow his fall this man would have been laid out. In fact his arm was more wedged in between the railing than holding on to it. As she bent down to help him a crowd began to form.
It’s OK…I’m alright…I robed her at gunpoint yesterday, only kidding miss. Allison tries not to laugh as the crowd disperses. I’m so sorry…I’ve never hit anyone before. I kind of had it coming. Allison thought to herself…yeah you did have it coming and stood up, almost glaring at the humbled kind of sorry looking man on the floor. He had on a beat up brown corduroy jacket and floppy brown hair, that hadn’t been combed tonight...but he still robbed me she thought…even if he is cute. My name is Diggs. I’m sorry for what I did to you. You should be. I am. Well good. I’m Allison thanks for the skates. Your welcome thanks for the money…want to continue your list?
There’s more? Allison thought for a moment about how ridiculous talking to this man was but hitting this man took all the anger she had towards him away. He gave her four times what he stole in cash and already was better at her birthday that anyone she ever met. She took a deep breathe and said “Yes, but we have to stay in public.”