CATCH ME IF YOU CAN
Written by
Jeff Nathanson
1 INT. - GAME SHOW SET. - DAY 1
BLACK AND WHITE FOOTAGE FROM 1978
MUSIC UP:
A simple GAME SHOW SET -- one long desk-that houses four
"CELEBRITY PANELISTS," a small pulpit with attached microphone
for the host, BUD COLLYER, who walks through the curtain to
the delight of the audience. Bud bows and waves to the
celebrities -- ORSON BEAN, KITTY CARLISLE, TOM POSTON, and
PEGGY CASS.
BUD COLLYER
Hello, panel, and welcome everyone
to another exciting day on "To Tell
The Truth." Let's get the show
started.
THE CURTAIN STARTS TO RISE
BRIGHT LIGHTS SHINE on the faces of THREE MEN who walk toward
center stage. All thre n wear identical AIRLINE PILOT
UNIFORMS, each with m; c ng blue blazers and caps.
(cont' d)
Gentleman, please state
your names.
PILOT #1
My name is Frank Abagnale Jr.
THE PILOT IN THE MIDDLE steps forward.
PILOT #2
My name is Frank Abagnale Jr.
THE THIRD PILOT does the same.
PILOT #3
My name is Frank Abagnale Jr.
Bud smiles, grabs a piece of paper.
BUD COLLYER
Panel, listen to this one.
(he starts to read)
My name is Frank Abagnale Jr, and
some people consider me the worlds
greatest imposter.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
2.
1 CONTINUED: 1
As Bud reads, the CAMERA SLOWLY PANS the faces of the three
PILOTS.
BUD COLLYER (cont'd)
(READING)
From 1964 to 1966 I successfully
impersonated an airline pilot for
Pan Am Airlines, and flew over two
million miles for free. During that
time I was also the Chief Resident
Pediatrician at a Georgia hospital,
the Assistant Attorney General for
the state of Louisiana, and a
Professor of American History at a
prestigious University in France. By
the time I was caught and sentenced
to prison, I had cashed over six
million dollars in fraudulent checks
in 26 foreign countries and all fifty
states, and I did it all before my
18th birthday. To this day, I am the
only teenager ever to have been placed
on the FBI' s most wanted list.
My name is a Abagna l e Jr.
Warm applause as the THREE MEN walk behind
a desk that faces the pa They all sit down at exactly
the same time.
BUD COLLY (cont'd )
Okay, panel, you have ork cut
out for you. Kitty Carl , you
have the first question.
KITTY CARLISLE
Imposter number one, how many years
were you in prison?
PILOT #1
I served two years in France, and
five years in Atlanta, Georgia.
KITTY CARLISLE
Imposter number two, I find all this
very fascinating. Who was it that
finally caught you?
SLOWLY PUSH IN ON THE PILOT IN THE MIDDLE --
A thin smile across his lips as he faces the panel -- his
manicured hands out in front of him on the desk -- his back
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
3-
1 CONTINUED: (2) 1
straight in his chair -- his cap pulled slightly forward on
his head -- the way pilots like to wear them.
2 EXT. - PAPIGONE MAXIMUM SECURITY PRISON. - MARSEILLE - NIGHT 2
SUPER: MARSEILLE, FRANCE DECEMBER 25, 1967
A heavy rain falls on JOE SHAPE, 40's, who wears a black hat
and holds a black umbrella as he bangs on the window of a
small GUARDHOUSE in front of a LARGE GATED PRISON. Joe is
sneezing as he holds up an IDENTIFICATION CARD TO THE GUARD.
JOE SHAPE
Joe Shaye, FBI.
3 INT. - PAPIGONE PRISON WARDEN'S OFFICE. - DAY 3
Joe is walking down a long corridor inside the prison,
struggling to close his umbrella as he faces WARDEN GARREN
and TWO GUARDS.
JOE SHAPE
I have orders see a prisoner named
Abagnale, t e his statement and
solicit a c n ^ n so I can prepare
for tomorrow' tladition.
Joe takes a roll of CASH out of h` ocket, casually slips
the money to the Warden.
JOE SHAPE
If I give you another twenty, will
you turn up the heat in here?
4 INT. - PAPIGONE PRISON - FRANK'S CELL/CORRIDOR. - DAY 4
Warden Garren is leading Joe down a small, isolated corridor
just off the main floor. They pass CEMENT DOORS with metal
SLIDE HOLES and numbers taped to the front. There are no
bars or windows in this area, and complete silence. Garren
stops at the last cell and opens the SLIDE HOLE.
WARDEN GARREN
Don't pass him anything through the
HOLE-
Garren walks off, and Joe immediately starts to smile, looking
around for a long BEAT as he stares at the cell door.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
4.
4 CONTINUED: 4
JOE SHAYE
Yoohoo. Hello? Is the lady of the
house at home?
Joe tries to control his excitement as he kneels down and
looks through the metal slide hole.
THROUGH THE HOLE
5 INT. - PAPIGONE PRISON - FRANK'S CELL. - NIGHT 5
WE SEE FRANK ABAGNALE JR., his face partially hidden in the
dim cell, which gets its only light from a hanging bulb.
Frank is lying on the cement floor, his back up against the
far wall. He wears only a pair of underwear and clutches a
torn blanket.
JOE SHAYE
Jesus, Frank, you look terrible. I
heard about French prisons, but this
is positively barbaric.
WE HEAR a sound come fr)dthe cell, and then heavy coughing.
JO,E YE (cont ' d)
That doesn' t o d(rr4ood. I have a
little cold my
Help me.
JOE SHAYE
Help you? Yes, I'll help you, Frank.
N
Why do you think I've been fighting
to have you extradited. Why do you
think I came to take you home? Do
you know that 21 other countries
want'you in their prisons? I saw the
list -- Egypt was on there. Who the
hell goes to Egypt to write bad
checks?
FRANK
I'm sick... please...
JOE SHAYE
Don't worry, Frank, you just have to
make it through one more night. And
then tomorrow I'll help you onto a
plane, clean you up, and put you in
a cell for the next twenty-five years.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
S.
5 CONTINUED: 5
INSIDE THE CELL
CLOSE ON FRANK ABAGNALE JR.
His face covered by a beard and matted black hair. Frank
closes his eyes and starts to cough.
FRANK
Help me, please. I can't breathe...
OUTSIDE THE CELL
Joe listens to Frank, who is coughing so hard he starts to
choke.
FRANK (CONT'D)
Can't... breathe...
JOE SHAYE
Don't start this shit, Frank.
FRANK
Can't ...Can't
Joe looks through the slot i e11 door, but can only
see faint images of Frank rol the floor holding his
THROAT-
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
Frank, what's happening? Damn it,
just calm down! Somebody help me!!
SMASH CUT
6 INT. - PAPIGONE PRISON - FRANK'S CELL/CORRIDOR. 6
THE CELL DOOR IS THROWN OPEN
Frank is being dragged across the floor by Warden Garren and
a second GUARD, each holding an arm as they drag Frank's
emaciated six-foot frame through the halls. Joe Shaye jogs
behind the guards.
JOE SHAYE
He's not breathing. I think he
stopped breathing!
Debbie Zane -
6.
7 INT. - PAPIGONE PRISON INFIRMARY. - DAY 7
A small, empty room with four empty hospital beds. Frank is
lifted onto one of the beds, his legs and arms flailing out
to the sides, kicking a thin curtain out from the wall.
JOE SHAYE
What's happening to him?
Garren and the Guard quickly move toward a sink, where they
start to wash their hands.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
What are you doing?
ASSISTANT WARDEN GARREN
Washing off the lice.
JOE SHAYE-
He can't breath. You have to call a
doctor.
STANT WARDEN GARREN
The doctor p fnl'sf in the morning.
You can't just t him die. I have
orders from the Embassy!
This man is going t tradited
to the United State am holding
you responsible if ant happens!
Suddenly Garren looks past Shaye -- eyeing the curtain that
partially encloses Frank's bed. Garren slowly moves toward
the curtain, pushes it open.
FRANK IS GONE
CLOSE ON GARREN
drawing his gun and sprinting out the open door of the
infirmary, yelling in French for the Guard to follow. Joe
Shaye stands motionless, staring down in horror at the empty
bed.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
Oh, shit.. .Frank!
8 INT. - PRISON. - CONTINUOUS 8
The prison ALARM has sent every prisoner to the front of
their cells, where they see Frank stumbling through the prison --
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
7.
8 CONTINUED: 8
a thin smile on his lips as he tries to move his starved
legs toward the main door.
As Frank makes his way past a row of cheering prisoners, he
trips and falls, his body too weak to run as he starts to
crawl across the prison floor.
Joe and Garren easily catch up to him, Garren quickly kneeling
down and holding his gun against Frank's head --cocking the
weapon. Frank stops crawling, rolls over on his back and
smiles up at Joe Shaye.
FRANK
Okay, Joe...let's go home.
9 INT. - NEW ROCHELLE ROTARY CLUB. - BANQUET ROOM. - NIGHT 9
SUPER: NEW ROCHELLE. NEW JERSEY 1964
A smoke filled oak dining room packed with CLUB MEMBERS --
HUNDREDS OF MIDDLE AGED WHITE MEN wearing black suits and
holding long cigars as they drink from brandy glasses.
FRANK ABAGNALE, 15, a BUCKLEY PRIVATE SCHOOL BLUE
BLAZER AND WHITE PANT with his mother, PAULA, 33, at
a center table near themes Paula is a stunning blonde
dressed in diamonds and and since she's the only woman
in the room -- she's getti t of attention. CLUB
PRESIDENT JACK WRIGHT takes rophone at the front of
the stage.
JACK WRIGHT
The New Rochelle Rotary Club has a
history that goes back to 1859. In
all those years, we have only inducted
a handful of deserving men as lifetime
members, an honor that has seen 187
names enshrined on the wall of honor.
Tonight, we make it 188. So please
stand, as I present my good friend,
Frank William Abagnale.
Applause all around as FRANK ABAGNALE SR. steps up to the
MICROPHONE. He is handsome and impeccable groomed -- wearing
a black suit and holding onto his plaque with two hands.
FRANK SR.
Two little mice fell in a bucket of
cream. The first mouse quickly gave
up and drowned, but the second mouse
wouldn't quit. He struggled so hard,
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
8.
9 CONTINUED: 9
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
that he eventually churned that cream
into butter -- and crawled out.
Gentleman, as of this moment, I am
that second mouse.
Laughter from the men in the room as Frank continues.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
I stand here today humbled by the
presence of Mayor Allen, and our
club President, Jack Wright. But
most of all, I am honored to see my
loving wife, Paula, and my son, Frank
Jr., sitting in the front-row. I'm
just a business man, a working stiff --
but tonight you have made me royalty.
And for this, I am eternally grateful.
The men applaud as Frank Sr. smiles down at his wife and
son, giving them a wink as he raises the plaque in the air.
10 EXT. - FRANK'S HOUSE. -/W ROCHELLE. - DAY 10
A tree lined, picture ce of suburbia, with large homes
splashed with snow, Ca n the driveways and kids
sledding in the street.
11 EXT. - FRANK'S HOUSE CHRISTMA4ER2MF , - DAY 11
DEAN MARTIN is singing EVERYBOD SOMEBODY on the radio,
as Frank Sr. hammers his PLAQUE i the wall. in the middle
of the DEN, Frank is dancing with his mother, who is holding
a glass of wine as she dances.
PAULA
You're a better dancer than your
father, Frankie. The girls don't
know what they're in for.
FRANK SR.
Paula, show him the dance you were
doing when we met.
PAULA
Who can remember?
FRANK SR.
The people in that little French
Village were so happy to see
Americans, that they decided to put
on a show for us.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
9.
11 CONTINUED: 11
FRANK
I know the story, Dad.
FRANK SR.
So they cram two hundred soldiers
into this tiny social hall, and the
first person to walk on stage is
your mother. And she starts to
dance...
Paula steps away from Frank, and she starts to dance a ballet,
smiling as she tries to remember the steps.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
It had been months since we had even
seen a woman, and here's this blonde
angel on stage -- and the men are
literally holding their breath. And
I turned to my buddies, and I said..
FRANK
(imitating his father)
I will not lea France without her.
Paula spins around, accide1 49, ILLS HER GLASS OF WINE --
PAULA
Oh, shit, the rug! I b relieve I
did that. Frankie, run /get a
towel...
As Frank runs off, Paula drops to her knees and scrubs the
stain with the hem of her dress.
PAULA (CONT'D)
This will never come out.
She looks up at her husband.
PAULA (CONT'D)
Whenever I dance for you, I get in
trouble.
12 INT. - FRANK'S HOUSE. - MORNING 12
Frank is asleep in his bedroom. His father walks in carrying
a plate of scrambled eggs.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
10.
12 CONTINUED: 12
FRANK SR.
Wake up, Frank... it's eight-thirty.
Frank opens his eyes, stares at his father.
FRANK
I overslept. Mom's gonna kill me.
FRANK SR.
It's okay. You don't have to go to
school today.
FRANK
Is it snowing?
FRANK SR.
Do you own a black suit?
FRANK
A black suit? Why?
FRANK SR.
We have a vermportant meeting in
the city.
13 EXT. - MEN'S SHOP. - 13
THE WHITE CADILLAC is park ont of A MEN'S CLOTHING
STORE -- Frank Sr. banging o tme lass door, trying to get
someone's attention.
pl�y( l
FRANK SR.
Ma'am, open the door. Just open up,
please, it's important.
THE DOOR OPENS A CRACK AND DARCY, 40's, low cut blouse, a
bagel in her hand, stares at Frank Sr.
DARCY
we don't open for half an hour.
FRANK SR.
What's your name, ma'am?
DARCY
Darcy.
FRANK SR.
Darcy, that's a pretty name. I'm in
a bit of fix -- I need a suit for my
kid. This is my son, Frank, he needs
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
11.
13 CONTINUED: 13
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
a black suit. There was a death in
the family, my father, eighty-five
years old, a war hero, there's a
funeral this afternoon -- a military
funeral -- planes flying overhead,
twenty-one gun salute. Frank needs
to borrow a suit for a couple of
hours.
DARCY
I'm sorry. We don't loan suits, and
we're not open.
As she closes the door, Frank Sr. takes a small GOLD NECKLACE
OUT OF HIS POCKET, holds it up to the glass.
FRANK SR.
Is this yours, Darcy? I just found
it in the parking lot?
Darcy stares at the necklace through the door.
14 EXT. - NEW YORK CITY. - DAB O 14
The Cadillac is parked somewh
Frank, now wearing a BLACK SUIT a
his father gets out of the car andclimbs into the back seat
FRANK SR.
Slide over. You're gonna take me to
Chase Manhattan Bank. Just head up
to seventy-second and Madison, pull
up to the front and park next to the
fire hydrant.
Frank looks back at his father.
FRANK
Dad...I don't know how to drive.
15 EXT/INT. - CADILLAC. - DAY 15
Frank is driving through Manhattan, his father in the back
seat screaming directions as he teaches him to drive. They
are both laughing as Frank speeds through the city.
(CONTINUED)
DEBBIE ZANE
12.
15 CONTINUED: 15
FRANK SR.
A little more gas -- now slip it
into second. That's good, more clutch,
now pull into this lane here --
slowly!
THE CADILLAC SWERVES HARD, ALMOST HITTING A CAB -- CARS
HONKING AND SLAMMING ON THEIR BRAKES AS FRANK SR. STICKS HIS
HEAD OUT THE WINDOW.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
(yelling out the window)
Don't honk at us you son of a bitch --
I'm teaching my kid to drive! You're
doing fine, Frank, just pick a lane
and slip it into third -- about one-
o'clock -- push it hard.
< A
Frank slips it into third.
FRANK SR_ (cont'd)
Perfect! Now you got it! Look at
you, Frank, t is your town --
you're goin s aight up Broadway!
16 INT. - CHASE MANHATTAN. 16
1
EMPLOYEES ARE HELPING CUST RS the hushed silence of the
MASSIVE BANK. Suddenly all ey to the street, where A
CHAUFFEUR IN A BLACK SUIT AND OPENING THE BACK DOOR
OF A WHITE CADILLAC THAT IS P T TO A FIRE HYDRANT.
17 EXT. - CHASE MANHATTAN BANK. - DAY 17
Frank Sr. steps out of the Cadillac, gives his son a wink.
FRANK SR.
Okay. Stop grinning. When I get inside
you go back to the front seat and
wait. Even if a cop comes and writes
you a ticket, you don't move the
car, understood?
FRANK
Dad... is this really gonna help?
FRANK SR.
You know why the Yankees always win,
Frank?
FRANK
They have Mickey Mantle?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
13-
17 CONTINUED: 17
FRANK SR.
No. It's because the other teams
can't stop staring at those damn
pinstripes.
Frank Sr. steps out from the Cadillac, grabs his briefcase.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
Watch this, Frank. The manager of
Chase Manhattan bank is about to
open the door for your father.
As Frank Sr. casually walks toward the doors of Chase
Manhattan, the MANAGER rushes through the bank to open the
doors for him.
18 INT. - LOAN DEPARTMENT. - CHASE MANHATTAN BANK. - DAY 18
Frank Sr. is sitting across from a LOAN OFFICER, who is
looking over his file.
LOAN OFFICER
You've owned stationery store
for how man rs?
LOAN OF
Mr. Abagnale, we don' `)1y loan
money to people who hav resolved
business with the I.R.S..
FRANK SR.
That's just a misunderstanding. I
hired the wrong guy to do my books,
a mistake anyone could make. I
wouldn't even consider that if I
were you.
LOAN OFFICER
You want me to ignore the fact that
the government is demanding two years
back taxes?
FRANK SR.
My store is a landmark in New
Rochelle. I have customers all over
New Jersey.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
14.
18 CONTINUED: 18
LOAN OFFICER
Sir, you're not a customer of Chase
Manhattan. We don't know you. I'm
sure you're bank in New Rochelle...
FRANK SR.
My bank went out of business. Banks
like this put them out of business.
Frank Sr. leans in, lowers his voice.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
Now I know I made a mistake, I admit
that. But these people want blood --
they want my store -- they've
threatened to put me in jail. This
is America, right, I'm not a criminal.
I'm a medal of honor winner, a
lifetime member of the New Rochelle
Rotary Club. All I'm asking you to
do is help me beat these guys.
LFRX OFFICER
This is not estion of winning
and losing. It, question of risk.
I'm very sort
FRAN
You're the largest ion the world.
Where's the fucking
19 EXT. - USED CAR LOT. - DAY 19
A SALESMAN is handing Frank Sr. A CHECK and a set of KEYS.
SALESMAN
The Impala is parked right over there.
Frank and his father glance toward an OLD, DENTED CHEVY IMPALA
at the back of the lot.
SALESMAN (CONT'D)
it was great doing business with
you.
THE SALESMAN gets in the CADILLAC and drives it toward the
front of the car lot. Frank Sr. looks down at the CHECK in
his hand.
FRANK SR.
Come on, Frank. Let's go return the
suit.
Debbie 7 ana - S
15.
20 EXT. - FRANK'S HOUSE. - DAY 20
A MOVING TRUCK IS DRIVING AWAY FROM THE HOUSE. The Chevy
Impala is packed with boxes as it slowly pulls out of the
driveway, passing the SOLD SIGN on the front lawn as it
follows the moving truck through the neighborhood.
21 EXT. - EASTCHESTER TRAIN STATION. - DUSK 21
A CARGO TRAIN shoots through the rain as it pulls into a run
down station that is flanked by the dilapidated APARTMENT
BUILDINGS AND TENEMENT HOUSES that make up the town of
EASTCHESTER, NEW JERSEY.
22 INT. - EASTCHESTER APARTMENT - NIGHT 22
A TWO BEDROOM APARTMENT with cracks in the ceiling that seem
to grow with each passing train. There are MOVING BOXES
STACKED AGAINST THE WALLS, and a dining room table that seems
to take up half the apartment.
Frank is in the kitchen making dinner as his father walks in
from work -- his suit wX kled, his briefcase in hand.
J P
ank laughs with him.
FRANK (CONT'D)
I'm making pancakes.
FRANK SR.
We're not gonna eat pancakes for
dinner on my son's sixteenth birthday.
Frank turns to his father.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
Why are you looking at me like that?
You thought I forgot?
Frank opens his BRIEFCASE, takes out a CHECKBOOK FROM CHASE
MANHATTAN BANK. He walks over and hands it to Frank.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
16.
22 CONTINUED: 22
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
I opened a checking account in your
name. I put twenty-five dollars in
the account so you can buy whatever
you want. Don't tell you mother.
Frank slowly opens the CHECKBOOK, sees his name at the top
of the first check.
FRANK
But they turned down your loan?
FRANK SR.
Yeah. They all turned me down.
FRANK
So why open a bank account with them?
FRANK SR..
Because one day you'll want something
from these people -- a house, a car --
they have all the money. There's a
hundred check ere, Frank, which
means from i day on -- you're in
THEIR LITTL
23 EXT. - MONROE HIGH SCHOO MORNING 23
O FLL\
THE IMPALA pulls up to the f the local public High
School. Frank wears his BLUE WHITE PANTS as he
gets out of the car and smiles r mother. Paula wears an
OLD FUR COAT over her pajamas.
I
PAULA
See that, it's just a school. No
different than Buckley.
Frank reaches through the window of the car, takes the
CIGARETTE out of his mother's mouth.
FRANK
You promised you were going to quit.
PAULA
Frankie, you don't have to wear the
uniform here. Why don't you take the
jacket off?
FRANK
I'm used to it.
Debbie Zane - 5
17.
24 INT. - MONROE HIGH SCHOOL. - DAY 24
Frank walks through the crowded halls looking lost as he
holds a CLASS SCHEDULE. He gets odd looks and stares from
the kids around him.
25 INT. - CLASSROOM. - DAY 25
Frank walks into a packed classroom, the STUDENTS turning to
stare as he checks his schedule.
FRANK
Is this Ms. Glasser's sixth period
French?
Some of the students laugh, most just turn back to their
friends as Frank nervously adjusts his tie. A GIRL in the
front row stares at Frank.
STUDENT
Are you the sub?
Frank looks around for `� teacher, then slowly starts to
NOD_
Frank walks toward the blac writes his name on the
board -- MR. ABAGNALE. HE S ACK OF AN ERASER against
the board to get the students a n.
FRANK (CONT'D)
I
Listen up, class. My name is Mr.
Abagnale and I'll be your substitute
today. Would somebody please tell me
where you left off in your text book?
GIRL
Chapter seven.
FRANK
Open your books to chapter eight,
read quietly to yourselves.
The classroom door swings open, and a frail, confused TEACHER
walks in and motions to Frank.
TEACHER
Are you subbing for Roberta?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
18.
25 CONTINUED: 25
FRANK
Yes.
TEACHER
They sent for me -- they said they
needed a sub. I rushed over here
from Dixon.
FRANK
I always sub for Roberta.
TEACHER
I'll never come to Monroe again.
You tell them not to call me!
The WOMAN storms out, and Frank turns back to the students.
FRANK
I suggest you start reading people.
26 INT. - PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE. - MONROE HIGH SCHOOL - DAY 26
PRINCIPAL EVANS AND VIARINCIPAL BROWN are standing in
front of Frank Sr. an la, who sit in two small chairs
facing the Principal'
been coming to schq�� not?
VICE-PRIN ROWN
Mr. and Mrs. Abagnale, �1� is not a
question of your son's attendance.
PRINCIPAL EVANS
For the past week Frank has been
teaching Ms. Glasser's French class.
PAULA
He what?
PRINCIPAL EVANS
Your son has been pretending to be a
substitute teacher, lecturing the
students, giving out homework.
VICE-PRINCIPAL BROWN
Ms. Glasser has been ill, and there
was some confusion with the real sub --
we're still not sure what happened.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
19.
26 CONTINUED: 26
PRINCIPAL EVANS
Your son held a teacher-parent
conference yesterday. He was planning
a class field trip to a French bread
factory in Trenton. Do you see the
problem we have?
Frank Sr. and Paula seem a bit confused.
PAULA
This is our fault, Principal Evans.
Frank had been at Buckley since he
was a little boy. We had to take him
out for personal reasons, away from
his friends -- you know how kids
are. He's all alone here.
FRANK SR.
He's not alone. He has us.
27 EXT. - PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE. - SAME TIME 27
Frank is sitting outsid' he Principal's office wearing his
coat and tie, waiting oI his parents to come out. He watches
as a FOOTBALL PLAYER hands- SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR a note.
FO IL PLAYER
I have a note fr try om. I need to
miss sixth period she's taking
me to the doctor.
N
SCHOOL ADMI I"RATOR
Thank you, Roger.
As the Football player walks off, Frank leans over to look
at the note. The Administrator catches him looking.
FRANK
It's a fake.
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR
Excuse me?
FRANK
There's no crease in the paper.
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR
I don't understand.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
20.
27 CONTINUED: 27
FRANK
When your mom hands you a note to
miss school, you put it in your
pocket. And if it was in his pocket,
where's the crease?
28 INT. - PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE. - DAY 28
Frank Sr. lights a cigarette as he stands up to leave.
FRANK SR.
Excuse me. I have to go to work.
PRINCIPAL EVANS
Sir, we have no choice but to suspend
Frank for one week, and transfer him
out of French and into German.
FRANK SR.
You're not suspending anyone. if you
go after my son I'll go before the
school board and ask them who's
minding the ste at Monroe High.
I'll ask my4bbd friend Tom Walsh
how it's po s' or a little kid
to teach a Fr n ajZa, t ss for an entire
week without tP incipal of the
school knowing a i%- I might
even mention the f t my son
doesn't speak Frenc
29 INT. - MONROE HIGH SCHOOL. -DAY w/ 29
Frank closes his locker, sees FOUR CHEERLEADERS standing in
front of him. The leader of the group, JOANNA, steps forward.
JOANNA
Are you that transfer from Buckley?
Frank looks a bit confused as he stares at the girls.
FRANK
Yes.
JOANNA
My name is Joanna Carlson, and I was
wondering if you were going to the
Junior Prom?
FRANK
No. I don't have a date yet. My name
is Frank Abagnale.
(CONTINUED)
21.
29 CONTINUED: 29
JOANNA
Frank, do you think you could buy my'
friends and I some beer before the
dance? All the other guys are afraid
to try.
FRANK
I'm only sixteen. How could I buy
you beer?
JOANNA
If you're old enough to teach French,
you're old enough to buy beer.
30 INT. - FRANK'S APARTMENT. - DAY 30
Frank walks in from school, throws his books on n-a chair and
opens the refrigerator. The radio is on and there's a bottle
of wine on the counter.
FRANK
Mom, I'm home.
Nobody answers, and Fk'"slowly walks toward the back bedroom
door, which is closed.
Frank's about to knock when th�t b om door suddenly opens,
and Paula walks out with JACK W - the Rotary Club
President -- who wears a tailored ck suit. Paula wears a
dress and holds a tray of food.
PAULA
That's all there is, two bedrooms,
but we're getting used to it. Frankie,
you remember Dad's friend Jack Wright
from the club, he came by looking
for your father -- I was giving him
a tour of the apartment.
JACK WRIGHT
Very spacious, Paula.
FRANK
Dad's at work.
Frank stares at Jack, who walks over and picks up his HAT
off the chair.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
22.
30 CONTINUED: 30
JACK WRIGHT
You look more like your old man every
day. Thanks for the sandwich, Paula.
I'll see ya later.
FRANK
Wait.
Frank walks to the couch, picks up a small ROTARY PIN that
is lying on the cushions. He holds it up to Jack.
JACK WRIGHT
Thank you, Frank. That's the
President's pin. I'd be in big trouble
if I lost that.
Jack clips the pin to his jacket, turns and walks out the
door.
PAULA
Are you hungry, Frankie? I'll make
you a sandwich.
Paula walks into the )Efien, opens the refrigerator and
starts making a sandw
PAWcont ' d)
Jack wanted to t ob ness with
your father. He sa' we should
sue the government, a 's not
legal what they're do us. Why
aren't you saying anyth
Frank stares at his mother, who continues to make his
sandwich.
PAULA (CONT'D)
You're not going to tell him, are
you?
Paula walks over to her son, her hands shaking as she hands
him a sandwich.
FRANK
No.
PAULA
That'sright. There's nothing to
tell.I'mgoing outfor a few hours,
visitsomeold friends from the tennis
club.Andwhen I get home we'll all
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane . 5
23.
30 CONTINUED: (2) 30
PAULA (cont' d)
have dinner together, right? But your
won't say anything, because it's
just stupid, isn't it?
Paula lights a cigarette, walks toward the door.
PAULA (CONT'D)
Do you need some money, Frankie, a
few dollars to buy some record albums?
Here, take five dollars.
Paula holds out five dollars, and Frank walks toward her,
reaches up and takes the cigarette out of her mouth.
FRANK
You promised you were going to quit.
31 EXT. - ABAGNALE STATIONERS. - NEW ROCHELLE. - DAY 31
A large stationery store sits right in the middle of the
upscale neighborhood of New Rochelle.
32 INT. - STATIONERY STO A DAY 32
Frank is working behindvt" nter of his father's store,
gently placing a SILVER cross a velvet display pad. A
WOMAN stares down at the p 0
FRANK
This is a 925 sterlihk� �er
Waldmann ballpoint pen V a two-
color twist action top. Just turn it
0.
like this -- the ink changes from
black to blue. Nine dollars.
WOMAN
They have them in the city for six.
As the woman walks out of the store, Frank Sr. comes running
out of his office, which doubles as the stockroom. He holds
a letter in his hand.
FRANK SR.
It's over. I did it, Frank. The sons
of bitches have called off the dogs --
read it and weep. I beat the United
States government. Take a look at
that.
Frank Sr. hands Frank a letter.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
24.
32 CONTINUED: 32
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
See what it says -- the I.R.S is
backing off. They're gonna take their
money and run -- no charges filed,
no further investigations into this
matter. They thought they could get
me, and I sent Uncle Sam running for
the hills.
FRANK
Does this mean we can move home?
FRANK SR.
We're gonna move back here, Frank,
get a new house, a new car --
FRANK
A red Cadillac with white interior.
FRANK SR.
It's gonna take a little time, but
we're gonna get it all back --every
fur coat, eve goddamn piece of
silver! Com o help me lock up.
We're going tg4 brace!
33 INT. - VILLAGE INN BAR. ='rEASTCHESTER. - DAY 33
Frank follows his father int ILLAGE INN BAR, a
neighborhood dive that is ful 'lway workers coming off
the night shift. Frank and his are greeted with cold
stares from a handful of REGULARS are drinking and
watching a mounted black and white TV.
NEWSCASTER (V.0. ON TV)
The Warren Commission has concluded
their investigation into the
assassination of President Kennedy,
and has found that Lee Harvey Oswald
acted alone, with no evidence of
conspiracy, domestic or foreign.
FRANK SR.
(to the bartender)
Bring us a couple of beers and two
shots of Canadian.
BARTENDER
I need to see the kid's I.D..
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
25.
33 CONTINUED: 33
FRANK SR.
This kid is the head salesman in my
company. He's twenty-two and he's
making five bills a week, so just
bring the drinks and mind your
business.
Frank and his father sit at a small table in the middle of
the bar. Frank looks uncomfortable as his father lights a
cigar.
FRANK
Maybe I should wait in the car.
FRANK SR.
Are you afraid of these men? Look at
the way, they sit, the way they dress,
the way they drink. What are they,
railway men? Cargo loaders? Those
men haven't earned the right to judge
us. I beat Uncle Sam, what have they
ever done?
The WAITRESS brings o the drinks, and Frank Sr. quickly
downs both shots. He ak DIME out of his pocket and sets
it on the table.
FRANSR. %cont d)
Frank, I wa nt you that dime
and go put it in th u x. Pick
something loud. We're ating.
Frank glances to the bar, where the MEN are quietly watching
the-TV. The JUKEBOX is directly under the television.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
You know who I like? Lesley Gore.
FRANK
Dad... they're watching TV.
FRANK SR.
Yes. But in a moment they'll be
listening to Lesley Gore. We're gonna
teach the drunks to mind their
manners.
FRANK
I think they know I'm not eighteen.
FRANK SR.
People only know what you tell them.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
26.
33 CONTINUED: (2) 33
Frank Sr. picks up the dime and holds it up to. his son.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
Take the dime, son. Just take the
dime and walk over there like you
just closed a big deal. Walk over
there like you got a roll of twenties
right next to your pecker.
Frank gets out of his chair and nervously faces his Father.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
And don't forget to smile while you're
shoving it down their throats.
Frank holds his father's dime as he slowly walks toward the
JUKEBOX. THE MEN AT THE BAR see him coming, slowly turn on
their stools.
MAN #1
Don't play that thing, kid.
Frank nervously stands alt " ukebox. Some of the men have
gotten off their stools drinks in hand.
MAN #2
We asked you not to' , kid.
The President is abou Gd ke a
speech.
Frank looks toward his father, who sits back in his chair,
smoking and smiling. Frank's hand shakes as he reaches out,
drops the dime into the jukebox.
MAN #1
We're not gonna tell you again.
Step away from the jukebox.
FRANK SR.
Why you bothering the kid? You got a
problem, come bother me.
Frank watches as TWO DRUNKS walk toward his father. They
both hold PITCHERS OF BEER in their hands.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
Hit the button, Frank. You hit that
goddamn button!
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
27.
33 CONTINUED: (3) 33
As Frank reaches out and hits the button, the men start to
pour their beers over his father's head. FranWSr. does
nothing to stop them, the smile never leaving his face as he
screams at his son.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
That's right, Frank! Who are they!
Who are they!
THE JUKEBOX springs to life, and WE HEAR LESLEY GORE singing
"IT'S MY PARTY." The men continue to pour their beers over
Frank Sr.'s head, the entire bar screaming with laughter.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
Bus drivers! Security guards! Fry
cooks! Now they understand! They
can't win, Frank, they can't beat
me!
34 INT. - EASTCHESTER COURTHOUSE. - DAY 34
A LARGE COURTROOM -- ONLY FIVE PEOPLE INSIDE. On one side of
the room WE SEE FRANK S wearing a white suit that doesn't
quite fit -- a notice stain on the shirt. His weathered
black briefcase is on"t k in front of him.
Paula is on the other si the courtroom, wearing a blue
church dress and holding a li% cigarette in her hand.
Paula and Frank Sr. sit with lawyers facing JUDGE
LARKIN, who is examining the E for the first time.
JUDGE LARKI
Would the boy step forward and state
his name for the record.
Frank is seated in the middle of the courtroom -- a backpack
on the floor at his feet. Frank slowly walks toward the bench.
FRANK
Frank William Abagnale Jr.
JUDGE LARKIN
Frank, the court apologizes for
pulling you out of school this
morning. Are you aware of the fact
that your parents have filed for
divorce?
Frank glances at his mother, then slowly shakes his head
"no."
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
28.
34 CONTINUED: 34
JUDGE LARKIN (cont'd)
Again, I apologize. This is a custody
hearing to determine who you are
going to live with after the divorce.
Your mother and father are leaving
this decision up to you. For the
record, I would like to praise both
parents for showing such confidence
in their son, who they believe will
make the best decision for himself
and his family.
Frank stares straight ahead, his breathing forced as he stares
at Judge Larkin.
JUDGE LARKIN (cont'd)
Okay, Frank, I'm going to ask you a
difficult question. Who's it going
to be, your mother or your father?
Frank looks to his father, then turns and stares at his mother
for a long BEAT.
Can I have
it?
35 EXT. - EASTCHESTER. - DAY \Z:�/O 35
town, of sheer desperation
on s hif ace as h e runs pas t dil a� d shops and abandoned
buildings -- racing a train that lowing pulling into the
Eastchester station. fi
36 INT. - EASTCHESTER TRAIN STATION. - DAY. 36
Frank runs up to the ticket window at the TRAIN STATION.
FRANK
One ticket to Grand Central, please.
TICKET CLERK
Three dollars and fifty cents.
FRANK
Can I write you a check?
37 INT. - PAPIGONE PRISON. - MARSEILLE. - NIGHT 37
THE CELL DOOR IS PULLED OPEN, and Frank slowly walks out and
faces Joe Shaye, who is holding a pair of HANDCUFFS and
standing with FBI AGENTS EARL AMDURSKY and TOM FOX- All three
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
29.
37 CONTINUED: 37
AGENTS get a glimpse inside the cell -- and they all quickly
turn away.
JOE SHAYE
Frank, this is Agent Amdursky and
Agent Fox. They'll be helping with
the extradition.
Joe puts the handcuffs on Frank, who can barely stay on his
feet as he slowly turns to Warden Garren.
FRANK
Your wife is sleeping with one of
the guards. Just thought you should
know.
38 INT. - HOTEL ROOM. - FRANCE. - NIGHT 38
Joe Shaye, Amdursky and Fox are all watching Frank as he
sits naked in a bathtub, his handcuffs still on as he tries
to shave his beard.
39 INT. - HOTEL ROOM. - FF5?% - NIGHT 39
Frank has one hand 4N Ll to a chair, and both legs
SHACKLED to the corner ed. He's eating a sandwich
and drinking a glass of s Joe Shaye sits across from
him.
JOE SHA
Just sit back and get table.
We leave for the airpor nine
hours.
FRANK
I want to call my father.
JOE SHAYE
You can call him when we get to New
York? I apologize for the room --
it's the only place the agency could
afford.
FRANK
Don't worry, Joe. I've stayed in
worse.
40 EXT. - TIMES SQUARE HOTEL. - NIGHT 40
Frank wears blue pajamas as he's THROWN OUT OF A DILAPIDATED
TIMES SQUARE HOTEL ROOM BY THE NIGHT MANAGER, who is dragging
him toward the door.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
30.
40 CONTINUED: 40
SUPER: OCTOBER. 1964
MANAGER
I don't want to hear your story.
That's two checks that bounced, do
you know how much trouble I'm in?
FRANK
The bank made a mistake, Andy, I'll
write you a check right now! Please,
it's midnight, I have no place to
go.
The Manager pushes Frank into the cage elevator.
MANAGER
You're a goddamn kid. You should be
in school.
41 INT. - NEW YORK HOTEL ROOM. - NIGHT 41
A decrepit Times Square hotel room. Frank sits up in bed
staring down at his NEW RSEY DRIVER'S LICENSE -- which is
a simple I.D. CARD wi picture. Frank uses a pen to change
the date of birth fro lf o 1938.
42 INT. - NEW YORK SAVINGS BTKf - DAY 42
O
Frank holds a BLACK BRIEFCAS st ands in front of a
FEMALE BANK TELLER holding a HATTAN CHECK.
FRANK
My boss sent me to Brooklyn, then
Queens, now he wants me in Long Island
and I'm short train fare. It's my
first week -- I don't think I'm cut
out to be a salesman.
ASHLEY
I'm sorry, but we're not allowed to
cash checks from other banks. How
would we know if they were any good?
FRANK
What's your name?
ASHLEY
Ashley.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
31.
42 CONTINUED: 42
FRANK
You do me this favor, Ashley, and
I'll give you this sterling silver
Waldmann pen. It's German. What do
you say?
Frank takes the PEN out of his pocket.
ASHLEY
I feel so bad. I'm really not supposed
to take the check. How about if I
just loan you a few dollars myself?
Ashley takes some money out of her own pocket.
FRANK
That's okay, Ashley. I'll find my
way to Chase Manhattan.
43 EXT. - BANK. - DAY 43
As Frank walks out of the bank, he watches A PILOT AND TWO
FLIGHT ATTENDANTS step of a cab right in front of him.
They are all laughing A s hey head for the revolving doors
of the MAYFAIR HOTEL.
Frank watches as the PIL IPS THE DOORMAN A FIVE DOLLAR
BILL.
44 INT. - MAYFAIR HOTEL. - MORNING, N\ v- 44
Frank follows the Pilot into the 'air, seesthe hotel
MANAGER rushing over to greet him. The entirelobby seems to
be focussed on the Pilot, with BELLMEN runningover to carry 0;
his bags -- the FLIGHT ATTENDANTS following his every move.
Frank turns to an aging BELLMAN.
FRANK
Excuse me, do you know that pilot?
BELLMAN
He's just one of those airline jerks.
Just because you fly at thirty
thousand feet, doesn't make you God.
Frank watches as the Pilot walks into the elevator, the Flight
Attendants by his side.
FRANK (V.0.)
Dear Dad...I've decided to become an
airline pilot. I've applied at all
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
32.
44 CONTINUED: 44
FRANK (V.O.) (cont'd)
the big airlines, and have several
promising interviews lined up.
45 EXT. - PAY PHONE. - NEW YORK. - DAY 45
A packed street corner in the center of New York. Frank is
eating a hot dog as he talks on a PAY PHONE.
PAN AM OPERATOR (V.O.)
Pan Am, how may I help you?
FRANK
I'd like to speak to someone about a
uniform.
PAN AM OPERATOR
Hold for purchasing.
Frank turns and looks directly behind him, where WE SEE the
FIFTY STORIES OF THE PAN AN BUILDING standing tall in the
middle of the city.
HASING SUPERVISOR (V.O.)
Purchasing.
F
Yes. My name is illiams, and
I'm a co-ilot basp of San
Francisco. I flew a into New
York last night, and ving for
Paris in three hours.
PURCHASING SUPERVISOR (V.O.)
How can we help you?
FRANK
I sent my uniform out to be cleaned
through the hotel...
PURCHASING SUPERVISOR (V.O.)
Let me guess. They lost the uniform.
Happens all the time.
46 EXT. - NEW YORK STREET. - DAY 46
As the telephone conversation continues, WE SEE Frank running
down a busy street, a big smile on his face as he cuts in
and out of an endless stream of people.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
33.
46 CONTINUED: 46
PURCHASING SUPERVISOR (V.0.)
Go down to the Well-Built Uniform
Company at Ninth and Broadway --
they're our uniform supplier. I'll
tell Mister Ross you're coming.
Frank sprints through the doors of the WELL-BUILT UNIFORM
COMPANY.
47 INT. - WELL-BUILT UNIFORM COMPANY. - DAY 47
Frank poses in front of a full length mirror wearing a brand
new PAN AM UNIFORM. MISTER ROSS kneels in front of him,
cuffing his pants. In the B.G., WE SEE rows and rows of
uniforms waiting to be shipped.
ROSS
What's your rank?
FRANK
I'm a co-pilot.
Z
Right seat.
look too yo ng �e a pilot.
Ross places a single GOLD BAR'�bp `# lapel of Frank's jacket.
ROSS
How does that feel?
0
FRANK
It feels great.
ROSS
It's gonna be $164 dollars.
FRANK
No problem. I'll write you a check.
48 EXT. - NEW YORK. - DAY 48
Frank walks down Broadway in his new uniform, enjoying the
obvious glances he is getting from men and women who pass
by. He sees a little boy pointing at him, and he gives the
boy a playful salute. Frank can't help but smile as he drops
his briefcase in the nearest trash can, then turns and walks
into a bank.
Debbie Zane -
34.
49 INT. - BANK OF NEW YORK. - DAY 49
A FEMALE BANK TELLER is sneaking glances at Frank as she
counts out his money on the counter.
BANK TELLER
That's eighty, ninety, one hundred
dollars. You have yourself a great
time in Paris.
50 INT. - MAYFAIR HOTEL LOBBY. - NEW YORK CITY. - DAY 50
A busy, upscale business hotel in the heart of the city.
Frank stands in uniform at the front desk.
FRANK
I'm flying out to Paris in the C.
morning. Okay if I write you a check
for the room?
FRONT DESK CLERK
No problem, Sir.
I was also Sao if you could
cash a person for me. I've
got a date wit C� ute little hostess
this evening.
FRONT DB'U�,C K
For airline personnel O h checks
up to three hundred dol
I
FRANK
I won't need that much. Let's make
it two-fifty.
51 INT. - MAYFAIR HOTEL ROOM. - NEW YORK. - NIGHT 51
An episode of THE RIFLEMAN is on the black and white TV in
the hotel room. A ROOM SERVICE CART sits next to the bed,
piled high with half-eaten plates of french fries, hamburgers,
and slices of apple pie.
As Frank sleeps on the king sized bed, the PILOT'S UNIFORM
lies next to him on top of the sheets.
52 EXT. - ABAGNALE STATIONERS. - NEW ROCHELLE. - DAY 52
Frank Sr. gets off the bus in front of his store. He is
wearing his black suit and holding a briefcase as he starts
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
35.
52 CONTINUED: 52
to unlock the front door to the store. TWO POLICE DETECTIVES
walk up behind him.
DETECTIVE #1
Frank Abagnale?
Frank turns around, stares at the TWO COPS as they show him
their BADGES.
FRANK
What is this? The IRS said no charges
would filed.
DETECTIVE #2
Sir, we'd like to talk to you about
a checking account at Chase Manhattan
bank. The account is four thousand
dollars overdrawn, and checks are
bouncing every day.
DETECTIVE #1
The account is in your son's name,
and he was re ted as a runaway in
H MARC
DETECTI
Do you know where you
Abagnale?
FRANK SR.
You guys are looking for the wrong
person.
DETECTIVE #2
And how do you know that? Has Frank
been in contact with you?
FRANK SR.
if I tell you where he is, will you
promise not to tell his mother?
The two Detectives nod.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
(lowering his voice)
Frank made up a fake I.D and enlisted
in the Marine Corps -- he's over in
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
36.
52 CONTINUED: (2) 52
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
Vietnam right now. Somebody must
have stolen his bank book, because
he's half way around the world
crawling through the jungle and
fighting the fucking communists. So
don't come to my place of business
and call my boy a criminal, because
that kid has more guts than either
of you will ever know.
DETECTIVE #1
I'm sorry, Sir. We didn't know.
FRANK SR.
It's okay. Nobody knows.
53 INT. - PLAZA HOTEL. - NEW YORK. - DAY 53
Frank walks up to the front desk of the PLAZA HOTEL.
FRANK
Do you rent twriters?
F ESK CLERK
Of course, M ms. Would you
like electric m ual?
FRONT DESK K
You should try it. I'll send our
I
typist up to give you a lesson.
54 INT. - PLAZA HOTEL SUITE. - NIGHT 54
CLOSE ON
A BLANK COUNTER CHECK
The ELECTRIC STRIKING BALL of the typewriter is going over
the same words again and again, making them appear PRINTED.
The top of the phony check reads:
PAN AMERICAN WORLD AIRWAYS EMPLOYEE NUMBER 15415
PAY TO THE ORDER OF FRANK WILLIAMS $513.12
Debbie Zane - 5
37.
55 INT. - PLAZA HOTEL BATHROOM. - DAY 55
Frank kneels over the bathtub, looking down at a PLASTIC 707
MODEL AIRPLANE. The small plane is soaking in the tub,
floating up-side-down in a pool of bubbles.
CLOSE ON
THE WING OF THE MODEL PLANE_
The PAN AM LOGO is on the wing. WE WATCH as a TWEEZER lifts
the corner of the logo right off the plastic, carefully
slipping it off the wing so that the words PAN AMERICAN WORLD
AIRWAYS hang in mid-air.
ON FRANK
meticulously placing the LOGO on top of the check he has
just made. The words stick to the paper, and he quickly takes
the check and places it in the middle of a hotel BIBLE. He
sticks the bible under his bed, the way a kid breaks in a
new baseball glove.
56 INT. - CHASE MA.NHATTAW/BANK _ - DAY 56
Frank is still in uniform " s 0 walks past two MALE TELLERS
and deliberately approac YOUNG FEMALE TELLER-
CN
FRANK
I was wondering if ?bk `�ptad cash
this payroll check f
Frank takesthecheck out ofa phony PAN AM ENVELOPEand
M ;
hands it totheTELLER.ThePAN AM LOGO on the check is
crooked andoffcenter,thetype blurred and almostillegible.
FRANK (CONT'D)
You have beautiful eyes.
The TELLER smiles at Frank, barely glances at the check as
she opens her CASH DRAWER.
TELLER
How would you like it?
57 INT. - NEW YORK HOBBY SHOP. - DAY 57
A small HOBBY SHOP in Times Square. Frank sets FIFTEEN BOXES
of PAN AM MODEL AIRPLANES on the counter.
HOBBY SHOP OWNER
That's a lot of planes.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
38.
57 CONTINUED: 57
FRANK
I give them away at Christmas to
needy children.
58 INT. - PLAZA HOTEL SUITE. - NIGHT 58
CLOSE ON
A HOTEL BATHTUB FILLED WITH MODEL AIRPLANES THAT ARE SOAKING
IN WARM WATER.
Frank sits at a desk, pulls a CHECK from the carriage of an
electric typewriter. The check is perfectly centered, the
Pan Am logo straight, the lines and words looking thick and
heavy -- as if they were printed.
Frank takes the check and sets it on the hotel bed, where
FIVE HUNDRED FRESHLY MADE CHECKS are sitting in neatly stacked
piles.
59 INT. -PLAZA HOTEL. - MORNING 59
Frank walks downstairs his uniform, CHECK IN HAND. The
HOTEL MANAGER rushes a to greet him.
E'.
What can I do ou, Mr. Williams.
FRANK
I'm headed out to S morning
and I need a little s money.
MANAGER
0
I'm sorry, Sir, we won't have any
cash until the banks open in a hour.
But I'm sure they can cash your check
at the airport.
FRANK
The airport? They cash checks at
the airport?
60 INT. - LA GUARDIA AIRPORT. - MORNING. 60
Frank wears his pilot's uniform as he walks through the
crowded airport holding a thick wad of cash. As he stuffs
the money into his pockets, he walks toward a sign that reads:
AIRLINE PERSONNEL ONLY.
Debbie Zane - 5
39.
61 INT. - PERSONNEL AREA. - LA GUARDIA. - DAY 61
A giant warehouse filled with PILOTS, CO-PILOTS, FLIGHT
ATTENDANTS, and BAGGAGE HANDLERS. There is a CAFETERIA,
NEWSSTAND, AIRLINE SHOP, and SHOE SHINE BOOTH.
Frank sits down in one of the SHOE SHINE CHAIRS, two TWA
PILOTS next to him. He stares at their I.D. BADGES, which
are laminated pictures clipped to the front of their jackets.
FRANK
Morning.
The TWO PILOTS turn and look at Frank.
TWA PILOT
Morning. You mind if I ask you a
question?
FRANK
Sure.
PILOT
I see you hfe"d11 the time, and I
was wonderi g Pan Am is doing
out here at L ah_ubia? Pan Am doesn't
fly into La Gu
Frank stares at the Pilot, hag==(,d/,idea what to say.
TWA PILOT
You working charters?
FRANK
Yeah. Charters. I'm headed out to
Kennedy in a few minutes.
TWA PILOT
I figured as much. What kind of
equipment you on?
Frank thinks for a long BEAT, has no idea what to say.
FRANK
General Electric.
TWA PILOT #2
General Electric? What the hell do
you fly, washing machines?
Debbie Zane -
40.
62 EXT. - LA GUARDIA. - DAY 62
Frank is running out of the airport.
FRANK (V.O.)
Dear Dad. I have been accepted to
Pan Am's flight school, and will be
starting my training immediately. I
am sending you a picture of me in my
uniform, so that you can show it to
mom, and let her know that I am a
pilot for the greatest airline in
the world.
63 EXT. - PAN AM BUILDING. - DAY 63
Frank enters building.
64 INT. - PAN AM BUILDING - RECEPTION AREA - DAY 64
The massive CORPORATE OFFICES of PAN AM, which look out over
the Manhattan. Frank, dressed like a student and wearing a
backpack, gets out of televator and walks up to a
RECEPTIONIST.
I'm Frank Black'cr#4m Monroe High
School. I have a opdIntment with
Mister Mulligan.
RECEPTION
Go on in, Frank. He' s w i4 ng for
you.
Frank hesitates as he walks toward a door marked, PAUL
MULLIGAN, DIRECTOR OF AIRLINE SECURITY.
65 INT. - MULLIGAN'S OFFICE. - DAY 65
PAUL MULLIGAN, 70's, a small, rock of a man, stands behind a
WALL OF PICTURES, MILITARY MEDALS, PAN AM ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS,
and EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR CERTIFICATES that are neatly
displayed on the wall behind him.
MULLIGAN
Frank, I'm Paul Mulligan, head of
security for Pan American World
Airways. I understand you're writing
a report about Pan Am, and you'd
like to speak to a real live pilot.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
41.
65 CONTINUED: 65
FRANK
Yes, Sir.
MULLIGAN
Well you're in luck, son. Because I
was one of the best.
66 INT. - PAN AM BUILDING. - DAY 66
Frank is following Paul Mulligan through a large GALLERY
which shows the history of PAN AM in black and white pictures
and detailed PLASTIC MODELS.
FRANK
What does it mean when one pilot
says to another pilot, "what kind of
equipment are you on?"
MULLIGAN
He's asking what kind of plane they're
flying. DC-10, 707, 727.
What about a D. badges I've seen
pilots wear. e
MU G
A pilot is requi of
things with him at
airline personnel b e
similar to this Pan AA
wearing, and his FAA li
Mulligan pulls an old FAA LICENSE out of his wallet.
FRANK
Do you think I could make a copy of
this license to put in my report?
MULLIGAN
You can have it, Frank. It expired
five years ago.
FRANK
What about your I.D. badge? Do you
have an extra one I could borrow?
MULLIGAN
I'm afraid I can't help you there.
These badges are special ordered
from Polaroid. The only way to get
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -!
42.
66 CONTINUED: 66
MULLIGAN (CONT'D)
one is to become a real live pilot
for Pan Am.
67 INT. - POLAROID CORPORATE OFFICES. - NEW YORK. - DAY 67
A LARGE OFFICE IN NEW YORK CITY. A POLAROID SALESMAN has
opened a SAMPLE BOOK and is showing off page after page of
LAMINATED I.D. BADGES.
FRANK wears a suit and tie as he sits across from the salesman
examining the book.
FRANK
Caribbean Air will be expanding our
routes next year to include most of
the East coast. I'm thinking we'll
need several thousand badges.
POLAROID SALESMAN
As you can see, we make the I.D.
badges for almost every major airline.
POLAROI
That's Pan Am. Would o' Qke the
brochure on that one?
FRANK
My boss wanted me to bring back an
actual I.D. badge, not a brochure.
POLAROID SALESMAN
That's no problem, Mister Anderson.
We make all the badges right here
with this equipment.
The Salesman motions to a large CAMERA AND LAMINATOR.
POLAROID SALESMAN (cont'd)
I can make you one in a few seconds.
FRANK
I have an idea. Why don't you use me
as the subject.
Debbie Zane - 5
43.
l f 68 INT - KENNEDY AIRPORT. - DAY 68
Frank is walking through KENNEDY AIRPORT, his authentic PAN
AM I.D. BADGE secured to the front of his uniform. He walks
up to an EASTERN AIRLINES ticket counter and smiles at the
TICKET AGENT.
FRANK
Hello. I'm a Pan Am co-pilot and I'd
like to fly on your two-thirty to
Miami.
EASTERN TICKET AGENT
You want to dead-head to Miami?
FRANK
Yes. Dead-head.
Frank hands the AGENT his I.D. BADGE and Mulligan's FAA
license, which has been cropped at the top where Mulligan's
name used to be. She barely glances at either-
ERN TICKET AGENT
You' re in lyk""Sir. The jump seat
is open.
The Ticket Agent starts to la ,��Y}c�i Frank laughs with her.
69 INT_ - EASTERN 707. - DAY 69
MARCI, a cute 27-year-old EASTERN STEWARDESS with short blonde
hair and glasses, stands at the front of the plane smiling
at Frank -- who holds out his pink boarding slip.
MARCI
Are you my dead-head?
70 INT. - COCKPIT. - 707. - DAY 70
Frank is led into the cockpit by Marci, trying not to react
to the intensity of the tiny space. He immediately looks
around for the jump-seat -- or any seat -- but sees nothing.
MARCI
Frank, this is Captain Oliver. That's
John Paxton, the Co-Pilot, this is
Ron Vega, flight engineer.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -!
44.
70 CONTINUED: 70
FRANK
Frank Williams, Pan Am. Thanks for
giving me a lift.
CAPTAIN OLIVER
Go ahead and take a seat, Frank,
we're about to push.
Frank continues to search for the JUMP SEAT, the panic
starting to show on his face as Marci reaches her hand around
to the back of the cockpit door and pulls down the small
METAL SEAT_
MARCI
There you go. Would you like a drink
after take-off?
Frank quickly sits in the jump-seat, his hands shaking as he
tries to strap himself in.
FRANK
A glass of milk, please.
71 EXT. - KENNEDY AIRPORT'RMWAY. - DAY. 71
72 INT. - EASTERN COCKPIT. - 72
CLOSE ON FRANK -- inside the -- his hands gripping
the sides of the JUMP-SEAT, his nd face clenched into
a silent scream as the plane lift f, banking left as it
shoots out over Manhattan.
Frank is staring out the cockpit window in disbelief, the
way all kids do the first time they ride in a plane.
73 INT. - EASTERN 707. - LATER IN FLIGHT 73
Frank walks through the COCKPIT DOOR, sees Marci preparing
drinks at the beverage station.
MARCI
Hello, dead-head. Enjoying your free
ride?
FRANK
Marci, did you drop this?
Frank takes a SMALL GOLD NECKLACE out of his jacket pocket.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
45.
73 CONTINUED: 73
7 FRANK (CONT'D)
Must have slipped right off your
neck.
74 INT. - FRANK'S HOTEL ROOM. - MIAMI. - NIGHT 74
Frank is lying on top of Marci -- losing his virginity --
not moving -- just staring down at her with a bizarre look
on his face. The lights are low, the radio is on.
FRANK
Are all hostesses as nice as you?
MA.RCI
Stewardess. You know we like to be
called stewardess now. Why are you
stopping?
FRANK
I want to tell you something, Marci.
This is by far the best date I've
ever been on.
75 INT. - AIRPORT. - DAY 75
Frank walks toward a COUNTER with a big smile on
his face.
U O
FRANK
Is the jump-seat op no '1 j. ur four
o'clock to Dallas?
76 INT. - DALLAS BANK. - DAY 76
0
Frank is wearing his pilot's uniform as he walks up to LUCY,
the pretty ASSISTANT MANAGER of a small Dallas bank.
LUCY
Welcome to Dallas National Bank, how
may I help you?
FRANK
What's your name, Ma'am?
LUCY
Lucy Rogers. I'm the Assistant
Manager.
FRANK
Lucy, my name is Frank Williams, and
I'm a co-pilot for Pan Am. I'd like
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
46-
76 CONTINUED: 76
FRANK (CONT'D)
to cash this check and then take you
to dinner.
77 INT. - DALLAS HOTEL ROOM. - NIGHT 77
Frank is dancing with LUCY, who is laughing uncontrollably
as he twirls her around the room.
LUCY
Okay, enough! I'm gonna be sick. I
have to get home and get some sleep.
FRANK
It's only midnight.
LUCY
One of my tellers got married last
night, and I'm gonna be short handed
all week.
FRANK
What if I cane nd helped you out
down at the
L
Now why would ffaij Am Pilot want to
work in my stupi
Frank twirls Lucy, dipping he3JAn,; Y middle of the room.
FRANK
To be close to you.
78 INT. - DALLAS NATIONAL BANK. - DAY 78
Frank is standing with Lucy behind the counter of the bank,
watching as she feeds a stack of CHECKS into a MICKER ENCODING
MACHINE.
LUCY
We feed the checks through the micker
machine, and the magic eye reads the
micker ink and then sorts the checks
by numbers.
FRANK
What numbers?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
47.
78 CONTINUED: 78
LUCY
See the numbers on the bottom of the`
checks. Those are called routing
numbers.
FRANK
Where do the checks get routed to?
LUCY
Well, I'm not exactly sure.
Nobody ever asked before.
79 INT. - NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY. - DAY 79
Frank wears his pilots uniform as he sits across from a group
of HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS who are writing term papers. As the
students talk and laugh at their desks, Frank leans over to
them.
FRANK
would you keep it down, please?
The students immediatel uiet down as Frank turns a page in
his book -- THE HISTO BANKING IN AMERICA. He is reading
a chapter called - - T E, NKS OF THE U.S. FEDERAL RESERVE
80 INT. - NEW JERSEY AUCTIO 80
A SIGN READS: FORECLOSURE AU
BANS
WE SEE rows of desks, chairs, cou and cash drawers --
everything you could possibly find at a bank. The AUCTIONEER
stands in front of a room filled with BANKERS and BUSINESSMEN
in dark suits.
AUCTIONEER
Our next item up for bid is also
fromtheJersey National foreclosure.
Thisisa micker encoder, a machine
usedtoencode bank checks. Do I
haveanopening bid?
In the audience, Frank, dressed in a suit, smiles as he raises
his paddle.
FRANK
Five dollars.
Debbie Zane - 5
48.
81 EXT. - VILLAGE INN BAR. - EASTCHESTER, NEW JERSEY. - DAY 81
The parking lot is packed with cars. A light snow is falling
as FRANK SR. walks out of the bar and buttons his jacket.
FRANK
Happy birthday, Dad.
Frank turns to face his son, who is standing in front of a
RED CADILLAC that still has the sticker in the window. The
two men stare at each other for a long BEAT, and then embrace
in the middle of the lot.
FRANK SR.
Jesus, look at you? My son the
birdman. That is some uniform, Frank.
FRANK
I bought you a Cadillac.
Frank motions to the car, holds up the keys.
K (cont' d)
ission. She goes
s an hour. It
btj speedometer.
Frank Sr.
FRANK S
She's beautiful. Only\� @�nna get
myself another white on r already
ordered it. You keep that one, Frank,
I
maybe one day we'll race to Atlantic
City.
FRANK
I went by the store today. Since
when do you close on a Friday?
FRANK SR.
I had to close the store for awhile.
It's all about timing, Frank, the
goddamn government knows that. They
hit you when you're down, and I wasn't
gonna let them take it from me. So I
just shut the doors myself, called
their bluff.
FRANK
I can get you money, whatever you
need. We can buy ten stores.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
49.
81 CONTINUED: 81
FRANK SR.
No. It's better this way. I'm laying'
low for awhile, letting them have
their fun. It's just a stationery
store -- sooner or later they'll
forget about me.
FRANK
Have you talked to Mom?
FRANK SR.
She's so stubborn, your mother. But
I won't let her go without a fight.
I've been fighting for her since the
day we met.
FRANK
Out of all those soldiers, you were
the one that took her home.
FRANK SR.
That's right. Two hundred men were
sitting in th' little social hall
watching he d ce. What was the
name of tha d I/ ..il lage?
Montpelier.
FRANK S
I didn't speak a word
six weeks later she was
A WOMAN PULLS UP IN AN OLD FORD AND HONKS FOR FRANK SR.. She
smiles and waves at him through the window, and he waves
back.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
Shit. I have to go, Frank.
FRANK
I was hoping I could buy you a steak.
FRANK SR.
Jesus, tonight is no good. That's my
friend, Darlene. She's cooking me
dinner for my birthday. She used to
be the pastry chef at Elaines. Why
don't you come home with us?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
50.
81 CONTINUED: (2) 81
FRANK
No, I should probably get out to the
airport. I'm flying the red eye
tonight.
FRANK SR.
Where are you going?
FRANK
Dad, I'm serious about what I said.
I can get you money --whatever you
need.
FRANK SR.
Just tell me where you're going.
I bet it's someplace warm.
FRANK
Yeah. Hawaii.
FRANK SR.
Hawaii. My son is going to Hawaii
tonight. The x t of us really are
suckers.
82 INT. - FBI OFFICES. - WASHIN , DAY 82
SUPER: FBI BUILDING, WASHINGTON
CLOSE ON
A SLIDE PROJECTOR -- the circular tray turning clockwise as
an AGENT JOE SHAYE stands at the front of the room addressing
FIVE FBI AGENTS.
JOE SHAYE
John Doe 2172 is a paperhanger who
started on the East Coast. During
the last few weeks 2172 has developed
a new form of check fraud, which I'm
calling "the float". Next slide.
The slide doesn't change.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
Next slide, please.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
51.
82 CONTINUED: 82
FBI AGENT
The remote thing is broken.
You'll have to do it by hand.
Joe reaches in and turns the slide.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
What he's doing is opening checking
accounts all over the country, then
changing the micker ink routing
numbers on the bottom of those checks.
CLOSE ON
THE FACES OF THE FIVE FBI AGENTS, looking bored as they all
listen to Joe, having no idea what he's talking about. Some
of the agents are yawning, while other are doodling at their
desks.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
This is a map of the 12 branches of
the U.S. Federal Reserve. The optical
scanners at t bank read the numbers
on the bott a check -- then
ship the ch c}���f,? to the
CORRESPONDING
SPEC___
Joe, for those of
with bank fraud, wo
telling us what the h
talking about?
III
JOE SHAYE
The East Coast branches are numbered
seven through twelve, the midwest
four, five, and six...
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
You mean to say that those numbers
on the bottom of a check actually
mean something?
JOE SHAYE
Yes. And if you change a number one
to a number nine -- a check cashed
in New York won't be sent to the
East Coast Reserve -- but will be re-
routed all the way to California.
The bank won't know the check has
bounced for two weeks, which means
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
52.
82 CONTINUED: (2) 82
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
this guy can stay in one place --
rob the same banks over and over.
The AGENTS literally scratch their heads, trying to follow.
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
And this is why you called for an
emergency briefing? Because of a
couple of bounced checks?
Laughter from the other Agents as Joe tries to smile.
JOE SHAYE
Sean, I was hoping to get-some back-
up on this.
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
You want my wife to help you? She's
the one who balances the checkbook
at home?
83 INT. - RENTAL CAR. - LO GELES. - DAY 83
SUPER: HOLLYWOOD, CAL FOR - JULY, 1964
FBI AGENTS AMDURSKY AND
Hollywood. Fox sits in the
AMDURSϿ�
.I'm wearing a red nd high
heels, running through park and
chasing these two Puerto Rican's
with a suitcase filled with marijuana
and I reach for my radio to call for
back-up, but the radio is stuck in
my bra...
Joe turns up the volume on the radio, keeps his eyes on the
road as he drives.
AMDURSKY (CONT'D)
That's a funny story. People always
laugh at that story.
JOE SHAYE
Let me ask you something, Amdursky.
if you had so much fun working
undercover, why did you transfer
into bank fraud?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
53.
83 CONTINUED: 83
AGENT AMDURSKY
I didn't transfer. I was demoted.
(off Joe's look)
Demoted is the wrong word. It was
more like-punished. I screwed up
in the field.
JOE SHAYE
What about you, Mr. Fox? Did you
fuck up in the field and get punished?
FOX
No. I've never worked in the field
before. I was in the L.A. public
relations office, but we were shut
down after the riots.
JOE SHAYE
That's just great. I ask for backup,
they drag the bottom of the Pacific.
AMDURSKY
Can I ask you mething, Joe? How
come you're o erious all the time?
JOE SHAYE
Does it bother you, Mr. Fox?
0.
FOX
A little, I guess.
JOE SHAYE
Would you guys like to hear me tell
a joke?
AGENT AMDURSKY
Yeah. We'd love to hear a joke from
you.
JOE SHAYE
Knock Knock.
AGENT AMDURSKY
Who's there?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
54.
83 CONTINUED: (2) 83
JOE SHAYE
Go fuck yourselves.
84 INT. - TROPICANA MOTEL. - HOLLYWOOD. - DAY 84
The unmarked FBI SEDAN pulls up to TWO STORY MOTEL on the
SUNSET STRIP. Joe, Amdursky and Fox walk into the motel
office, all in black suits and sunglasses.
85 INT. - TROPICANA MOTEL.- LOS ANGELES. - DAY 85
Joe approaches the front desk of the motel, where the OWNER
stands in front of a fan.
MOTEL OWNER
He's been here two weeks, written
lots of checks. The one that bounced
was for twenty dollars, and he took
care of it right away.
JOE SHAYE
Nobody is goin to blame you. The
bank called u He's probably not
the man we' oking for.
ER
I don't want m-�Y u Comers harassed.
He took care of ' o '
JOE SHA
Do you have any of th 1 ( ys he's
written you?
MOTEL OWNER
He gave me one yesterday.
The owner takes a check out of the register, hands it to
Joe. Joe stares at the check for a BEAT, slowly starts to
smile.
JOE SHAYE
I don't believe it. You guys stay
here, watch the front.
AMDURSKY
Stay here? This guy's a check forger,
a goddamn paperhanger. He doesn't
even carry a gun.
FOX
Why can't we go with you, Joe?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
55.
85 CONTINUED: 85
JOE SHAYE
Just be quiet and watch the front.
And if you're good, I'll take you
both for ice cream when we're
finished.
86 EXT. - TROPICANA MOTEL. - LOS ANGELES. - DAY 86
Joe Shaye walks through the busy pool area of the motel,
passing a few FLIGHT ATTENDANTS who are sitting by the tiny
pool. Joe makes his way up the main stairwell.
87 INT. TROPICANA MOTEL - HALLWAY. - DAY 87
Joe walks through a fire door with his gun leading the way.
CLOSE ON
ROOM 212
at the end of the second floor hallway, the DO NOT DISTURB
SIGN hanging off the door. Joe slowly makes his way down the
hall, passing a MAID wh 's about to scream -- until he shows
her his badge and vio y motions for her to hide inside a
room.
Joe creeps along the walYh s gun straight out, his face
covered in sweat. He free Jow he hears a door creak,
his breathing labored as the s of ROOM 212 slowly swings
open and Frank walks into the ly u He wears a dark brown
suit and holds a black suitcase
JOE SHAYE
FI
Freeze! FBI! Don't you move! Put
your hands on your head or I'll shoot
you!
Frank slowly turns to face Joe. The two men stare at each
other for a BEAT_
FRANK
Relax, buddy, you're late. My name
is Johnson, Secret Service. Our boy
just tried to climb out the window --
my partner has him cuffed in the
alley downstairs.
JOE SHAYE
Secret Service? What are you talking
about? Keep your hands in the air.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
56.
87 CONTINUED: 87
FRANK
You think the FBI are the only ones
tracking this guy. We've been
following a paper trail for months,
almost had him in New York. Would
you mind taking that gun out of my
face, it makes me nervous.
JOE SHAYE
Let me see some identification.
FRANK
Here. Take my whole wallet.
Frank throws his wallet to Joe, who catches it with his free
hand, but doesn't open it.
FRANK (CONT'D)
You want my gun, too? Come over here
and take my gun!
Frank opens his jacket, but not wide enough for Joe to see
that he's not armed.
F (CONT'D)
Are you gonna e that weapon?
We're supposed a on the same
team.
Joe hesitates, then slowly louW6Xs`J`3,. gun and holsters it.
JOE SHAYE
I'm sorry. I got a little carried
away. I didn't expect Secret Service
on this.
FRANK
Counterfeiting is our thing.
JOE SHAYE
I know. I know. I just wasn't
expecting...
FRANK
Don't worry about it.
(showing him the briefcase)
This is his typewriter. I'm gonna go
lock it in my trunk. Do me a favor
and guard his room for a minute.
Frank starts moving toward the back stairwell.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
57.
87 CONTINUED: (2) 87
FRANK (CONT'D)
And yell down to my partner in the
alley -- tell him I'm on my way.
Frank starts to walk down back stairwell. He looks back at
Joe, who stands at the front of room 212.
FRANK (CONT'D)
What's your name, anyway?
JOE SHAYE
Joe Shaye.
FRANK
Tough luck, Joe. Five minutes earlier
and you would have landed yourself a
pretty good collar.
Frank starts walking down the stairs.
JOE SHAYE
Wait.
,�4back to Joe. Frank stops, slowly ty
(CONT' D)
Your wallet.
FRANK
Hang onto it for a pu`% , I trust
you.
88 EXT. - TROPICANA MOTEL. - LOS ANGELES. - DAY 88
0
Frank walks downstairs, opens the EMERGENCY EXIT that leads
to a back alley. He looks both ways, then starts to run toward
HOLLYWOOD BOULEVARD.
89 EXT. - ROOM 212. - MINUTES LATER. 89
Joe Shaye is guarding the entrance of room 212. He's standing
tall, almost at attention. After a BEAT he looks down at the
wallet in his hand, his mind starting to consider a single
horrible thought.
90 INT. - FBI OFFICES. - WASHINGTON. - DAY 90
Joe Shaye is sitting in the office of Special Agent Wilkes,
the office window facing out on the Washington Monument.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
58.
9 0 CONTINUED : 90
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
I've cleared Amdursky and Fox in
this John Doe thing.
JOE SHAYE
Thanks, Sean. It was my call all the
way.
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
Sometimes we all get a little lost
out there. No shame in being rusty.
You want to talk about it?
JOE SHAYE
Not really. I made a mistake.
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
Forget about it. There are hundreds
of John Doe's out there.
JOE SHAYE
Yeah, but I'm gonna get this one.
The worst thi a paperhanger can do
is show is I saw him, I heard
his voice -- r s nothing for him
to hide beiin (n�
SPECT-ALOA T WILKES
Just be careful, J u've got 12-
years in, nobody bo r u down on
the first floor. You ally
wrote the book on bank d, and
that's good enough to make you F-4 {
some day. There's no reason to put
yourself in this type of position.
JOE SHAYE
what position is that?
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
The position of being humiliated.
Joe stares at Wilkes, slowly stands and heads for the door.
He's about to leave when he turns and looks back at Wilkes.
JOE SHAYE
Hey, Sean, you want to hear a joke?
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
Sure.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
59-
90 CONTINUED: (2) 90
JOE SHAYE
Knock knock.
91 INT. - WALDORF ASTORIA HOTEL. - NEW YORK. - NIGHT 91
A ROOM SERVICE WAITER opens a metal lid on a serving tray,
revealing a huge steak and french fries.
FRANK
Do you have any ketchup, Richard?
WAITER
It's in the little bowl, Mr. Williams.
FRANK
Thanks. Here ya go. Keep the change.
Frank takes a crumpled fifty dollar bill out of his pocket,
hands it to the waiter.
WAITER
Thank you very much, Mr. Williams.
you want some`5'v
WAIT O
I would, but my sh' over. I'm
going home to my ki thank you
for asking, Mr. Willi d merry
Christmas.
FRANK
Merry Christmas.
92 INT. - FBI FINGERPRINT LAB. - WASHINGTON D.C. - NIGHT 92
CLOSE ON A FINGERPRINT UNDER A MICROSCOPE -- WE SEE ONE PRINT
AFTER ANOTHER.
JOE SHAYE
is looking through a giant PRINT BOOK -- tediously searching
for a match. Joe is alone in the fingerprint lab, where a
pathetic looking Christmas tree sits in the corner of the
room. The phone rings, and Joe quickly answers.
JOE SHAYE (ON PHONE)
This is Shaye. Merry Christmas.
INTERCUT WITH SC. 93
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
60.
92 CONTINUED: 92
FRANK
Hello, Joe.
JOE SHAYE
Who is this?
FRANK
Johnson, Secret Service.
Joe sits up at his desk, grabs a pencil and paper.
JOE SHAYE
John Doe 2172?
FRANK
I've been trying to track you down
for a couple of hours. Did you know
that most people in the FBI have no
idea who you are or what you do?
JOE SHAYE
What do you want?
happened out li'n>Zo ngeles .
JOE
Fuck you. Don't yo ize to me.
I'm the one that's Rn t you in
jail.
FRANK
Joe, do you always work on Christmas
Eve?
Joe looks around the room before he answers.
JOE SHAYE
I volunteered, so that men with
families could go home early.
FRANK
You were wearing a wedding ring in
L.A.. I thought maybe you had a
family?
JOE SHAYE
No. I've never been married.
FRANK
How come?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
61.
92 CONTINUED: (2) 92
JOE SHAYE
You want to talk to me, let's talk
face to face.
FRANK
Okay. I'm at the Waldorf Astoria in
Manhattan. Suite 3113.
Joe starts to write this down, then suddenly stops himself.
JOE SHAYE
You think you're gonna get me again,
don't you? You'd love for me to send
twenty agents out on Christmas Eve
to barge into that hotel, break down
doors so you can make a fool out of
me again?
FRANK
Joe, I'm sorry if I made a fool out
of you.
J SHAYS
Goddamn it, o t you feel sorry for
me. The tru h knew it was you.
Maybe I didn 1 {he trigger, but
I knew.
FRANK
People only know wh r,y` iV tell them.
JOE SHAYE
Then tell me something. How did you
know I wouldn't look in the wallet?
FRANK
The same reason the Yankees always
win. Nobody can keep their eyes off
the pinstripes.
JOE SHAYE
The Yankees win because they have
Mickey Mantle.
FRANK
I have to go. I'm catching a flight
in two hours. Merry Christmas, Joe.
JOE SHAYE
You didn't call to apologize, did
you John Doe?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
62.
92 CONTINUED: (3) 92
7 FRANK
What do you mean?
JOE SHAYE
You've got no one else to call.
Joe hangs up the phone. He cups his hands to his face, then
stares at a picture of his WIFE AND DAUGHTER -- which sits
on the desk in front of him.
93 INT. - WALDORF ASTORIA HOTEL. - ROOM 93
Frank slowly hangs up the phone. He walks over to the chair
in the room, picks up his Pilot's Cap and puts it on.
94 INT. - LAS VEGAS SAVINGS AND LOAN. - DAY 94
Frank stands across from a NEW ACCOUNTS MANAGER at a LAS
VEGAS BANK.
NEW ACCOUNTS MANAGER
You account balance will be three
hundred dolls Mr. Williams. And
these are y r emporary checks.
NEW AC
Just take a deposit
counter, then fill in
ou wish to the amounty
FRANK
I don't need to fill in my account
number?
NEW ACCOUNTS MANAGER
At Nevada Savings and Loan, we treat
our customers by name instead of by
number.
Frank walks over and stares at the deposit slips. He grabs A
THICK STACK and shoves them into his coat.
95 INT. - CAESAR'S PALACE HOTEL. - NIGHT 95
CLOSE ON
A DEPOSIT SLIP AS IT'S FED INTO THE MICKER MACHINE.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
63.
95 CONTINUED: 95
When the deposit slips comes through the other side, WE SEE
a NINE DIGIT ACCOUNT NUMBER printed on the bottom. Frank
sits on the edge of his Las Vegas hotel room -- HUNDREDS OF
DEPOSIT SLIPS COVERING THE BED.
96 INT. - NEVADA SAVINGS AND LOAN. - DAY 96
Frank walks into the bank, casually switches his stack of
deposit slips with the ones on display.
97 INT. - FBI OFFICES. - WASHINGTON D.C. - DAY 97
Joe Shaye uses a slide projector as he files a report in
front of TEN AGENTS.
JOE SHAYE
I'm calling it "The Switch." Next
slide.
The slide doesn't change.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
JOE HITS
JOE SHAYE�?� CO)
John Doe 2172 took two red and
fifty deposit slips from Nevada
Savings and encoded his account number
on the bottom of each one.
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
Wait a second, Joe. Those slips don't
even have his name on them.
JOE SHAYE
The bank scanners read the micker
ink before they read pen ink. So
even though those deposit slips are
filled out correctly, each person
who made a deposit that day was
actually putting money into his
account.
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
How much did he get?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -!
64.
97 CONTINUED: 97
JOE SHAYE
Forty-six thousand, four hundred and'
twelve dollars. It was the second
largest bank robbery in the history
of Las Vegas.
98 INT. - PAN AM BUILDING COMMISSARY. - DAY 98
Paul Mulligan sits across from Frank eating lunch. Frank is
dressed in school clothes and holding a notebook.
FRANK
What's the fuel consumption of a 707
in flight?
MULLIGAN
Kid, I'm really not in the mood for
this today. That damn Skywayman is
driving me crazy. There was another
article.
FRANK
Who's The Sk an?
Mulligan hands Frank _ f the NEW YORK TIMES.
UG
Some nut flying
posing as a Pan Am
has devoted a weekl
Frank stares down at the TIMES, h yes wide as he stares
at the headline: SKYWAYMAN VISITS WASHINGTON: ELUSIVE PHONY
STILL FLYING THE FRIENDLY SKIES.
FRANK
The Skywayman...
MULLIGAN
I keep telling them it's not my
problem. He doesn't fly on Pan Am
planes -- he flies on everybody else.
The damn paper is in love with this
clown -- they call him the James
Bond of the sky.
FRANK
Did you say James Bond?
Debbie Zane - 5
65.
99 INT. - MOVIE THEATER. - NIGHT 99
Frank is sitting in a movie theater watching GOLDFINGER, his
eyes glued to the screen. He's eating a box of popcorn, a
big smile on his face as he stares up at SEAN CONNERY.
100 INT_ - CLOTHING STORE. - DAY 100
Frank is wearing a three button black suit with a sweater
vest and narrow black tie. He's looking at himself in a full
length mirror, with a SALESMAN standing behind him.
FRANK
And you're sure this is the suit?
SALESMAN
Positive. That'.s the same.one he
wore in the movie.
FRANK
Okay. I'll take three.
S SMAN
Now all you a is one of those
little Fore gny-�ts cars he drives.
101
The lab is packed with AGENT re searching for a
fingerprint match. Joe Shaye i s head from a microscope,
rubs his eyes.
FOX
Joe, I got something!
Joe rushes over to Agent Fox, who is holding up TWO SETS OF
FINGERPRINTS.
FOX (CONT'D)
I was looking through the wanted
criminal file, and there it was!
Look at that!
Joe takes the file from Fox and opens it.
JOE SHAYE
The Skywayman. Holy shit, a perfect
match.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
66.
101 CONTINUED: 101
AMDURSKY
They describe The Skywayman as a
thirty-year-old -- dark hair --six-
feet -- same fucking guy!
JOE SHAYE
It doesn't make any sense. A thirty-
year-old has to register for the
draft, which means his prints have
to be here.
FOX
Maybe there's a reason he didn't
register. He could have a wooden leg
for all we know. Maybe he was born
in Peru and he's not an American
CITIZEN-
JOE SHAYE
Maybe he's not thirty. Somebody call
New York, get a list of juvenile
runaways from the NYPD.
102 EXT. - PAULA ABAGNALE'S HOME. `e_ VMIGL ISLAND. - MORNING 102
TEN FBI AGENTS have surrounded a 4 /STORY HOME IN LONG
ISLAND. Joe Shaye, wearing a black hat and black overcoat,
is knocking on the door with Amdursky and Fox. Paula answers
with a cigarette in her hand.
JOE SHAYE
Good morning, ma'am, we're the FBI
Agents who called.
PAULA
Yes. I've been waiting. I hope you're
all hungry. I made biscuits-
103 INT. - PAULA'S HOME. - LONG ISLAND. - MORNING 103
Paula sits on the living room couch pouring three cups of
coffee. There is a tray of BISCUITS on the table in front of
her.
PAULA
My husband is a lawyer.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
67.
103 CONTINUED: 103
Paula motions to a FRAMED PICTURE of Jack Wright.
PAULA (cont' d)
He advised me not to speak to you.
So I'd appreciate it if you didn't
mention this to him.
JOE SHAYE
Of course, Ma'am. Do you have a
current address for your ex-husband,
Frank Abagnale?
PAULA
No. He moves around a lot these days.
How are those biscuits?
AMDURS KY
Very good.
JOE SHAYE
Ma'am, you filed a police report
last year for a juvenile runaway
named Frank Ana1e, Jr.
PAULA
He's forging checks? That's why you're
here?
(LAUGHING)
Half the kids his age are on dope,
throwing rocks at police, and you're
scaring me to death because my son
is forging checks?
JOE SHAYE
What he's doing is a federal offense.
PAULA (CONT'D)
A young boy has to eat, has to have
a place to sleep. What do you want
him to do? His father can't help
him.
Paula gets off the couch and grabs her purse.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -'
68.
103 CONTINUED: (2) 103
PAULA (CONT'D)
I'm working part-time now at the
Church. Just tell me how much he
owes and I'll pay you back.
Paula takes out her CHECKBOOK.
JOE SHAYE
So far it's about two million dollars.
104 INT. - DALLAS BANK - DALLAS. - DAY 104
LUCY, one of the BANK TELLERS we met earlier, sits in her
office. Joe Shaye and the other agents open up the BUCKLEY
SCHOOL HIGH SCHOOL YEARBOOK. On a page marked, SOPHOMORES,
Joe points to tiny black and white picture of Frank wearing
a coat and tie.
LUCY
Yes, Sir, that's him. But I didn't
know he was sixteen! I swear to God
I didn't know!
Joe gets out of the cy , -61oses the door on Lucy and smiles
at Amdursky and Fox.
We got him.
105 EXT. - JFK AIRPORT. - DAY v til "_ 105
Frank is wearing his James Bond s1'/as she pulls up to the
airport in a German sports car. He parks the car and jumps
out of the convertible, leaving the keys in the ignition.
106 INT. - JFK AIRPORT. - DAY 106
Frank is walking through the airport, eyeing several UNIFORMED
COPS who are scattered throughout the terminal, all holding
the yearbook picture of FRANK. Frank sees FOUR UNDERCOVER
COPS walking toward him, then sees TWO DETECTIVES checking
the identification of a PAN AM PILOT.
Frank nervously steps into the NEWSSTAND, hides behind a
magazine rack as he slowly reaches up and takes off his
Pilot's cap and sunglasses.
FRANK (V.O.)
Dear Dad. I'm no longer an airline
pilot for Pan Am. I'm now an FBI
Agent working undercover for the
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
69.
106 CONTINUED: 106
FRANK (V.O.) (cont'd)
United States government. How are
you? Please get in touch with Joanna
Carlson at Monroe High School, and
tell her that I won't be able to go
to the Junior Prom with her.
Frank is staring at the cover of PLAYBOY MAGAZINE. He smiles
as he reads the headline: RIVER BEND -- THE BEST SINGLES
COMPLEX IN AMERICA
107 EXT. - RIVER BEND APARTMENT COMPLEX. - ATLANTA. - DAY 107
SUPER: ATLANTA, GEORGIA AUGUST 1964
A sprawling APARTMENT COMPLEX that lines a picturesque golf
course. There are two swimming pools, tennis courts, but
most of all -- WOMEN. Everywhere you look, there are women
walking the grounds, swimming, playing tennis.
Frank is carrying the MICKER BANK MACHINE into his apartment,
passing TWO WOMEN in bikinis.
FRANK \1� (0)
This is a micker encodifi achine.
It's what banks use to print numbers
on checks. I collect them.
WOMAN #2
Very cool. Where's the party tonight?
FRANK
I'm doing fondue at my place.
108 INT. - FRANK'S APARTMENT. - NIGHT 108
CLOSE ON
A bubbling FONDUE POT with skewers lining the rim. The
apartment is packed with men and women who are drinking,
smoking pot, and eating fondue.
R.B.WOMAN #1
Frank, this is great fondue.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
70.
108 CONTINUED: 108
FRANK
Thanks. Did you see my new phonograph
system? It's reel-to-reel, the best
sound system you can buy.
Frank motions to the phonograph system in the living room,
with giant speakers against the walls.
R.B. WOMAN #2
I still want to see that bedroom of
yours. I hear you have thirty suits.
FRANK
Thirty-one. Come on, everyone, I'll
show you my closet!
109 INT. - FRANK'S BEDROOM. - NIGHT 109
Frank is standing in front of the master walk-in closet. His
bed is round, -and there are mirrors on the ceiling.
FRANK
Okay, you guyeady?
Frank throws open his"c doors, revealing FOUR ROWS of
SUITS, all different st all arranged by color.
R. B. 0#1
Whoa, look all tho
�1�
FRANK � no
Some of those Manhattan le suits
were three hundred dollars. And those
shoes are Stacy-Adams slip-ons.
R.B. MAN #2
I didn't know the FBI .paid so well.
A drunk WOMEN comes running into the bedroom.
R.B. WOMAN #3
Come quick. Lance just fell into the
conversation pit.
110 INT. - MARIETTA GENERAL HOSPITAL. - ATLANTA. - NIGHT 110
Frank walks through the hospital, looking into rooms, smiling
at patients. He walks toward a RECEPTION DESK, sees a YOUNG
DOCTOR yelling at BRENDA STRONG, 17, a thin, awkward looking
candy striper with her hair in a bun and braces on her bottom
teeth.
(CONTINUED)
nohhic 7mno - s
71.
110 CONTINUED: 110
YOUNG DOCTOR
These bottles need to be labeled
when you pick them up. Do you realize
what would happen if they got mixed
up -- do you understand how dangerous
this is? Don't stand there crying,
just nod your head and tell me you
won't do it again!
Brenda nods her head, quickly walks away from the Doctor and
sits behind the RECEPTION DESK. She buries her head and starts
to write a letter, her body still sobbing as Frank walks up
to her.
FRANK
Are you okay?
Brenda looks up at Frank, her eyes and nose puffy from crying.
She covers her mouth when she talks.
BRENDA
i He told me to ck up the blood, so
I did. He nev told me to label it.
Brenda.
FRANK
Brenda, I wouldn't worr-out it.
These Doctors don't know everything.
BRENDA
It's my first week. I think they'.re
going to fire me.
FRANK
No. Nobody will fire you. I'll bet
you're good at your job.
BRENDA
No, I'm not.
FRANK
I'll bet if I asked you to check the
status of my friend, Lance Applebaum,
you could do that in a second. He
hurt his foot tonight.
Brenda grabs a chart, starts to read it out loud.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - f
72.
110 CONTINUED: (2) 110
BRENDA
Mr. Applebaum fractured his ankle.
Doctor Ashland is treating him in
exam seven.
FRANK
See that. No problem.
Brenda smiles, covering her mouth.
BRENDA
This is the emergency chart. See the
blue star, that means the patient
has been diagnosed. After he's
treated, we put a red circle here.
FRANK
How do you like those braces?
Brenda looks embarrassed as she stares at Frank.
BRENDA
I guess they',okay.
FRANK
Mine were bottoms. I h 'e(E hhem. I
still have my mouth qua
BRENDA
You have really nice teeth.
FRANK
And you have a pretty smile.
Brenda tries not to smile, shaking her head and covering her
face.
FRANK (CONT'D)
I'm serious. I think those braces
look really good on you.
Brenda starts to blush as she continues to write her letter.
FRANK (CONT'D)
What are you writing?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
73.
110 CONTINUED: (3) 110
BRENDA
A letter to Ringo.
FRANK
What does it say?
BRENDA
I can't tell you. I'm embarrassed.
FRANK
Come on. What does it say?
BRENDA
It says I love him. Pretty stupid,
right. Ringo Starr is never going to
read my letter.
Frank stares at Brenda, starts to smile as she puts her letter
in a drawer.
FRANK
Brenda, do you know if they're hiring
here at the h ital?
C O
111 INT. - JOHN GRANGER'S OFFICE. - TAL. - DAY.
Frank is sitting across from JOHN GRANGER, 60's, the HOSPITAL
ADMINISTRATOR, who is reading over a RESUME.
GRANGER
Harvard Medical School, top of your
class, Children's Hospital of Los
Angeles, Peace Corps volunteer in
North Africa. A pretty impressive
resume, Doctor Connors? Why do you
want to work here?
FRANK
I came to Atlanta to relax, to get
away from my practice for a year.
But to be honest, I'm a little bored
out at River Bend.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
74.
111 CONTINUED: ILL
GRANGER
Unfortunately, the only thing I need
is an emergency room supervisor for
my midnight to eight shift, someone
to baby-sit six interns and thirty
nurses. But I doubt you'd be
interested in that.
FRANK
Would I get to pick my own nurses?
112 INT. - FRANK'S APARTMENT. - RIVER BEND. - NIGHT 112
Twenty people are partying in the living room.
113 INT. - FRANK'S BEDROOM. 113
Frank is lying on his bed making a phony MEDICAL SCHOOL
DIPLOMA. He's using a HARVARD BROCHURE to guide him as he
carefully places the STICK-ON letters on the aged paper. A
WOMAN walks into the bedroom.
114 INT. - CONFERENCE ROOM. - DAB ^ 114
Frank is sitting in front of DO GER and FIVE DOCTORS,
all of whom are looking over FRAM ' FILE, which consists of
the fake HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL DIPLOMA -- fake letters of
recommendation from CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL OF LOS ANGELES, and
a fake CALIFORNIA MEDICAL LICENSE.
DOCTOR GRANGER
Doctor Connors, here is your temporary
license, which allows you to practice
medicine in the state of Georgia for
up to one year. And now let me be
the first to say, welcome to Marietta
General.
115 EXT. - HOSPITAL. - NIGHT 115
Frank is standing in front of the thirty CANDY STRIPERS,
NURSES and INTERNS who will be working under him during the
night shift. He wears Doctor's whites, holds a clipboard as
he takes roll.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5-
75.
115 CONTINUED: 115
FRANK
Brenda Strong?
He smiles at Brenda, who covers her mouth as she smiles back.
BRENDA
Here.
FRANK
Doctor Paul Ashland.
DOCTOR ASHLAND
Sir... will you be taking role every
night?
FRANK
Yes. And if you're going to be late,
I suggest you bring a note.
116 INT. - HOSPITAL CORRIDOR. - NIGHT 116
Frank walks down along hospital corridor holding his
clipboard, passing sever"',, NURSES in the hall.
V
(FLIRTING
Good evening, tJr Connors.
FRANK
Button your shirt, M
can see you bra strap. i is s a
hospital, not a sororit
117 INT. - FRANK'S APARTMENT. - NIGHT.
ON A BLACK AND WHITE TV, DR. KILDARE approaches a hospital
bed.
DR. KILDARE (ON TV)
Any change in the patient, Doctor
Marks?
DOCTOR MARKS (ON TV)
Doctor Kildare, I think we should
try the shock therapy before it's
too late.
Frank sits alone in his apartment eating popcorn and watching
DR. KILDARE on TV.
DOCTOR KILDARE (ON TV)
Doctor White, do you concur?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
76.
117 CONTINUED: 117
DOCTOR WHITE (ON TV)
Yes. I concur.
118 EXT. - FRANK'S OFFICE. - HOSPITAL. - NIGHT. 118
The name on the office door reads FRANK CONNORS, M.D.. Frank
sits at his desk in front of a brand new IBM ELECTRIC
TYPEWRITER. He is making COUNTERFEIT CHECKS for himself as
Brenda walks in holding a clipboard.
BRENDA
Doctor Connors, you need to sign
these.
Brenda walks in and hands him the clipboard. Frank starts to
scribble on the charts, the way Doctor's scribble out
prescriptions.
BRENDA (CONT'D)
Do you notice anything different
about me, Doctor Connors?
F
You got your �e ff! Let me see.
Frank moves toward her, st dkA her bottom teeth.
BRENDA
I kept trying to show '4 ) l night.
FRANK
Did it hurt when they took them off?
Mine felt so weird after.
BRENDA'
I keep rubbing my tongue over them.
I can't stop. It's so slippery.
FRANK
It feels good, doesn't it?
BRENDA
Yes_ It feels incredible.
Frank leans toward Brenda, gently starts to kiss her. As the
passion increases WE HEAR the HOSPITAL P.A. SYSTEM.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
77.
118 CONTINUED: 118
P.A. OPERATOR
Doctor Connors, please come to
Emergency. Doctor Connors to
Emergency.
Frank continues to kiss Brenda.
BRENDA
Shouldn't you go?
FRANK
There's a staff Doctor in the
emergency ward.
BRENDA
What if he's in surgery?
FRANK
Do you really think I have to go?
119 INT. - HOSPITAL ELEVATOR. - DAY 119
Frank nervously paces i d,� he elevator, taking deep breaths
as he tries to calm d
120
The elevator doors open, a3W Pr slowly walks into the
EMERGENCY WARD, where Nurses rushing toward a closed
curtain.
EMERGENCY N
In here, Doctor Connors.
Frank walks toward a closed curtain, stands in front of a
bed and forces himself to look-'He sees a blood splattered
sheet and three young INTERNS standing over the leg of an
ELEVEN-YEAR-OLD BOY.
FRANK
Well, what do we have here?
DOCTOR ASHLAND
Bicycle accident. A fracture of the
tibia, about five inches below the
patella.
Frank stares at the boy's face, trying not to look at the
open wound.
FRANK
Doctor Hollis, do you concur?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
78.
120 CONTINUED: 120
DOCTOR HOLLIS
Concur with what, Sir?
FRANK
What Doctor Ashland just said.
DOCTOR HOLLIS
(CONFUSED)
Well, it was a bicycle accident. The
boy told us.
FRANK
So you concur?
DOCTOR HOLLIS"
Well, I'm not sure we can...
DOCTOR ASHLAND
I think we should take an x-ray,
then stitch him up and put him in a
walking cast.
K
Very good, cb?6r Ashland. You don't
seem to hav Tm4x a ed for me. Carry
on.
DOCTOR HO
I blew it, didn't I? Wh idn't I
concur? I panicked!
I
121 INT. - HOSPITAL MEN'S ROOM. - NIGHT. 121
Frank walks into the MEN'S ROOM, steps into an empty stall
and immediately starts to throw up.
122 INT. - FRANK'S APARTMENT. - RIVER BEND. - NIGHT 122
Frank is writing a letter at his electric typewriter. He
pulls it out and reads it over, then takes out a pen and
signs the name RINGO STARR.
123 INT. - HOSPITAL. - NIGHT 123
Brenda is running through the halls holding the letter.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
79.
123 CONTINUED: 123
BRENDA
He wrote me back. Ringo wrote me
back! Doctor Connors, come quick! I
got a letter from Ringo Starr, he
signed his name and said I was his
biggest fan!
124 INT. - HOSPITAL CAFETERIA. - NIGHT 124
Frank is sitting across from Brenda in the cafeteria.
BRENDA
I bought you a present.
Brenda hands him wrapped present.
BRENDA (CONT'D)
Open it.
Frank quickly opens the box, takes out a TINY GOLD DOCTOR'S
CADECUS.
(CONT'D)
doctors wearing r
left yours back
ld plated.
BRENDA
Now when you're walki nd the
hospital, you'll feel l"the real
thing.
She pins the Cadecus on his lapel, and Frank can't help but
smile.
FRANK
Brenda, I want to go away with you.
I'll take you anywhere you want to
go.
BRENDA
I haven't really been anywhere.
FRANK
Just name the place, and we can go.
Africa, Egypt, it doesn't matter.
BRENDA
Can we go to Liverpool.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -'
80.
124 CONTINUED: 124
FRANK
Where's Liverpool?
BRENDA
It's where the Beatles are from in
Europe.
FRANK
Okay. We'll go to Liverpool.
BRENDA
You're joking, right. We're not really
going to Liverpool, are we?
FRANK
Brenda, how would you like to be
head nurse at the hospital? is
BRENDA
But I'm not a nurse. I'm a candy
striper.
K
We'll get y nurses uniform. Nobody
will know the rence. I'll make
the announcem`L:dri
V
BRE
They'll laugh at m k, please
don't make me the h e. Promise
me you won't do that, t even
give a shot.
4
FRANK
Just think about it, Brenda. You and
I could run this hospital one day.
125 EXT. - FRANK SR.'S EASTCHESTER APARTMENT. - DAY 125
Joe Shaye is eating a slice of pizza as he talks with the
LANDLORD of the apartment building.
JOE SHAYE
I just need to go inside and take a
quick look around?
LANDLORD
He's at work, so search all you want.
But if you find any money in there,
it belongs to me.
Debbie Zane - 5
81.
126 INT. - FRANK SR'S EASTCHESTER APARTMENT. - DAY 126
Joe Shaye is walking through the two bedroom apartment.
There's a bed pushed against the wall, stacks of drafting
paper, envelopes, and other STATIONERY SUPPLIES lying around
the room.
WE SEE a black and white picture of Paula and Frank Sr.
sitting on the front of a U.S. ARMY TANK.
Joe takes Frank Sr.'s black briefcase off the shelf and flips
it open. He reaches inside and pulls out a stack of POSTCARDS --
all sent by Frank to his father. Joe smiles as he flips over
the postcard, stares down at a picture of CLARK GABLE and
VIVIAN LEIGH.
127 EXTINT. - EASTCHESTER PHONE BOOTH. - DAY 127
Joe is inside a phone booth, dropping dimes into the slot
and holding the POSTCARD.
JOE SHAYE
He's in Atlan Sean! No, I'm not
coming back o ashington. I'm going
straight to G and I'll meet
the team they hit, I'm out of
dimes. Sean, w 3, I'm out of dimes!
128 INT. - FRANK'S APARTMENT. - Rc JEND. - NIGHT. 128
Frank and Brenda are lying in bb�t(c.�ther, staring at each
other in the ceiling mirrors.
FRANK
It's okay. You don't have to cry.
BRENDA
I'm sorry, I just can't do this.
FRANK
Brenda, it's okay. I don't care about
you being a virgin. I can wait.
BRENDA
I want to sleep with you. I really
do.
Brenda sits up, starts getting dressed.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
82.
128 CONTINUED: 128
BRENDA (CONT'D)
I haven't told you the truth. I'm
not a virgin. I had an abortion two
years ago. My parents found out and
kicked me out of the house.
Brenda covers her face with a pillow, starts to cry.
BRENDA (CONT'D)
I had an abortion, and they said I
wasn't their daughter anymore.
FRANK
It's okay.
BRENDA
Then a few months ago they apologized
and said I was their daughter, but I
couldn't come home for awhile. I'm
so sorry, Frank, please don't be
mad.
BREN 10
I ask them all the but they
won't let me come h M Y Da d'
a lawyer, and he and this
contract. He calls it a al
agreement.
FRANK
What if you were engaged to a doctor,
would that change anything?
Brenda removes the pillow from her face, stares at Frank.
BRENDA
What?
FRANK
What if I went to your parents, spoke
to your father and asked his
permission to marry you?
BRENDA
Don't tease me, Frank.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
83.
128 CONTINUED: (2) 128
FRANK
I'm not teasing.
BRENDA
You would go home with me to New
Orleans?
FRANK
We can leave right now, never come
back.
129 INT. - RIVER BEND APARTMENT COMPLEX. - ATLANTA. - NIGHT 129
TEN FBI AGENTS burst through the doors of Frank's apartment.
Joe Shaye is out front, leading the men inside with his guns
drawn.
FBI AGENT
We're clear. It's empty.
There's a fondue pot in the kitchen, bean bag chairs in the
living room. Joe walks over to the wall -- stares at the
framed HARVARD MEDICAL OkHOOL DIPLOMA.
130 EXT. - MARIETTA HOSPITAL/�7;NIGHT 130
TEN POLICE CARS, sirens �' n g , pull up to the front of the
hospital. JOE SHAYE and hi Gn %ump out of sedan, sprint
into the hospital.
131 INT. - HOSPITAL. - NIGHT "Y (Q) 131
Joe Shaye is leading an army of cops down a hallway, holding ;I
the Harvard Diploma in his hand. They make their way to the
front of a door marked: FRANK CONNORS, M.D..
JOE SHAYE
Okay. Kick it in.
The Agents kick down the door, and Joe Shaye walks into the
office, stares at an electric typewriter that is humming on
the desk.
132 EXT. - BRENDA'S PARENTS' HOUSE. - NEW ORLEANS. - NIGHT 132
A WHITE CADILLAC is parked in the driveway of a large, two
story house.
Debbie Zane -
84.
133 INT. - BRENDA'S PARENTS' HOUSE. - NIGHT 133
Frank, dressed in a plain white suit, sits at the dinner
table with Brenda and her parents, ROBERT and CAROL STRONG.
The house is old and warm, the table jammed with food.
ROBERT
Doctor Connors, are you a Lutheran?
FRANK
Yes, Sir. I'm a Lutheran.
CAROL
Have you been to New Orleans before,
Doctor?
FRANK
No, Ma'am. This is my first time.
And please, call me Frank.
ROBERT
Frank, would you like to say grace?
Frank stares at Brend ah her parents, who bow their heads.
He hesitates for a B T, WE SEE that he has no idea how
to say grace.
ROBETc `'''c d)
Unless you're not i V able.
Brenda peeks at Frank, who close 2 )eyes and bows his head.
FRANK
Two little mice fell in a bucket of
cream. The first mouse gave up and
drowned, but the second mouse
struggled so hard that he churned
that cream into butter -- and he
walked out. Amen.
They all lift their heads, clearly impressed. Robert turns
to Frank and smiles.
CAROL
Amen. That was beautiful.
Frank turns to Brenda, gives her a wink.
134 INT. - BRENDA'S PARENTS' HOUSE. - LIBRARY. - NIGHT 134
Frank stands next to Robert in the library, the two men
sipping brandy as they stare at some paintings on the walls.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
85.
134 CONTINUED: 134
FRANK
Who is this?
ROBERT
President Johnson.
FRANK
Right. That's very good, Sir.
ROBERT
It's just a hobby. Every Sunday night
I go into the garage, pretend I'm an
artist. Sometimes I stay in there
for hours, hiding from the world,
making a fool out of myself.
FRANK
No, Sir. You are an artist.
ROBERT
What about you, Frank? Where do you
go when you need to hide?
ROBERT
Have you decided whic
want to work at here in
A
FRANK
To be honest, I've been thinking
about getting back into law.
ROBERT
What do you mean? Are you a lawyer
or a doctor?
FRANK
Before I went to medical school I
passed the bar in California. I
practiced law for a year, then decided
to try my hand at pediatrics.
ROBERT
A doctor and a lawyer. I'd say Brenda
hit the jackpot. Where did you go to
law school?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
86.
134 CONTINUED: (2) 134
FRANK
Berkeley.
ROBERT
Berkeley. Well, now she's hit the
Irish Sweepstakes. Would you be
interested in coming to work for an
old man who barely made his way
through Stanford. My office is
desperate for Assistant Prosecutors.
FRANK
You would give me a job?
ROBERT
If you're going to marry Brenda,
it's the least I can do.
FRANK
What would I have to do to take the
bar here in New Orleans?
135 INT. - STATE BAR EXAMINE OFFICE. - NEW ORLEANS. - DAY 135
CLOSE ON
BERKELEY TRANSCRIPTS, co e e with Berkeley Logo and
stationery. Frank hands m th oc ents to a WOMAN sitting
behind a desk, who hands him WUISIANA BAR EXAM.
BAR EXAMI
Good luck, Mister Conno
136 INT. - AIR FRANCE PLANE. - DAY 136 it
SUPER: DECEMBER 26. 1967. AIR FRANCE FLIGHT 676.
Joe Shaye is sitting next to a handcuffed Frank at the back
of the plane. Amdursky and Fox are sitting across from them.
JOE SHAYE
Look at that. They show movies on
planes now. What's next?
Frank and Joe stare at a small MOVIE SCREEN thirty rows in
front of them.
FRANK
Are you gonna eat that eclair?
JOE SHAYE
Yeah. I'm gonna eat it later.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
87.
136 CONTINUED: 136
FRANK
Do you want to split it?
JOE SHAYE
No.
Joe moves his eclair away from Frank.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
You know what I could never figure
out, Frank? How you cheated on the
bar exam in Louisiana.
FRANK
What's the difference?
JOE SHAYE
Did you have somebody else take the
test for you?
FRANK
I'm going to prison for a long time,
Joe? What's t)1 difference?
137 INT. - LOUISIANA DISTRICT ATTORNE OFFICE - DAY 137
III
Frank wears a new TAN SUIT and holds a TAN BRIEFCASE as he
walks through the busy law office with Brenda's father.
ROBERT
You'll be working under Phillip Rigby
in corporate law, handling small
claims made against the state,
trespass-to-try-title suits, most of
it won't get past a pre-trial motion.
Frank looks down at his desk, picks up the nameplate which
reads: FRANK CONNORS, ASSISTANT PROSECUTOR.
ROBERT (CONT'D)
Why don't you settle in, organize
your desk. We're having lunch with
the District Attorney and Governor
Davey at twelve-thirty.
Debbie Zane -
88.
138 INT. - BRENDA'S PARENTS' HOUSE. - NIGHT 138
Frank, Brenda, Robert and Carol are eating popcorn and
watching an episode of PERRY MASON on a black and white TV.
RAYMOND BURR (ON TV)
But if you were at your office on
the day of the murder, Mr. Darius,
then how could you know your wife
had left the gate open? Your honor,
ladies and gentleman of the jury,
this is irrefutable evidence that
the defendant is lying!
139 INT. - NEW ORLEANS COURTROOM. - DAY 139
Frank stands in a small, empty courtroom, presenting a case
before a JUDGE AT A PRE-TRIAL HEARING.
FRANK
I have four letters in my hand that
were sent to the defendant's
apartment, ea one warning him that
his buildin to be sprayed with
insecticide, at he should cover
his belonging o honor, ladies
and gentleman t e jury, this is
irrefutable evid e tat the
defendant is lying
JUDGE
Mister Connors, this is reliminary
hearing. There's no defendant, no
jury, it's just me. What the hell is
wrong with you?
140 INT. - NEW ORLEANS COURTROOM CORRIDOR. - DAY 140
Frank walks out of the courtroom, where Robert is waiting
for him.
ROBERT
Well?
Frank starts to smile.
FRANK
Case dismissed!
Frank shakes Robert's hand, and Robert pulls him close and
"' gives him a hug.
Debbie Zane - 5
89.
141 EXT. - NEW ORLEANS GARDEN DISTRICT. - DAY 141
Frank is covering Brenda's eyes with his hands as he slowly
walks her toward the front door of a LARGE HOUSE.
FRANK
Okay. Reach your hand out and feel
that. What do you think it is?
Brenda reaches out and touches a DOORKNOB.
BRENDA
What is it, Frank?
FRANK
It's our front door. I made an offer
today.
Frank removes his hands, and Brenda looks up at the giant,
six bedroom house that sits on a cul-de-sac.
FRANK (CONT'D)
What do you t)k?
BRENDA
It's so big. Are you h e(Q can
afford it?
FRANK
We're gonna have it all, Brenda.
BRENDA
But where will we get the money for
a house like this?
FRANK
The same place everyone gets it. The
bank.
142 EXT. - FRANK'S CADILLAC. -- NIGHT. 142
Frank is parked in front of the airport. He turns to Brenda
and gives her a kiss.
BRENDA
Why do you have to go?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -'.
90.
142 CONTINUED: 142
FRANK
I agreed to speak at this medical
conference six months ago. Your father
understands.
Frank grabs his briefcase and gets out of the car.
BRENDA
Why can't I go with you?
FRANK
Next time. I promise.
143 INT. - AIRPORT. - NIGHT 143
Frank walks into the airport, immediately goes to the MEN'S
ROOM.
144 INT. - AIRPORT MEN'S ROOM. - NIGHT 144
Frank opens his briefcase, pulls out his PILOT'S UNIFORM.
145 INT. - PRINTING SUPPLY P. - NEW JERSEY. - DAY 145
Frank wears a black s a PAN AM pin on the lapel. He
stands with the OWNER o e?RINT SHOP.
FRAN
As I stated on the Pan Am has
been unhappy for so t about the
quality of their expe cks.
we're looking for a new m to handle
the printing.
PRINT SHOP OWNER
How large would the order be?
FRANK
About twenty thousand checks a year.
PRINT SHOP OWNER
Oh, God, I want that account.
What do I have to do to get it?
FRANK
For starters, why don't you show me
how you make your checks.
146 INT. - NEW YORK OFFICE BUILDING. - DAY 146
TWO DELIVERY MEN are carrying an I-TEK camera into a small
office, where Frank is setting up a large PASTE-UP BOARD.
(CONTINUED)
tlahhia Tana . 5
91.
146 CONTINUED: 146
FRANK
Just put it anywhere.
They set the camera down, AND WE SLOWLY PULL BACK, see that
Frank has turned this office into his own print shop-
DELIVERY MAN
This stuff is heavy. What kind of
business you in?
FRANK
I make checks for Pan Am.
Frank motions out the window, where WE SEE THE PAN AM BUILDING
directly across the street.
147 INT. - FRANK'S NEW YORK OFFICE. - LATE 147
Frank is working at the paste-up board, making a 16-by-24
inch copy of a PAN AM EXPENSE CHECK.
WE WATCH AS he takes the check and places it directly under
the lens of the I-TEK C RA.
M
The PLATE ENGRAVING i fib around the drum of the small
PRINTING PRESS-
CLOSE ON
A PAPER CUTER SLICING the edg no<`'A newly printed PAN AM
EXPENSE CHECK.
148 INT. - FBI BUILDING. - WASHINGTON D.C. 148
SUPER: NOVEMBER, 1965
A large, smoked filled conference room, the drapes closed to
block the afternoon sun. JOE SHAYE holds one of Frank's new
checks as he stands before FBI DIRECTOR MARSH, who sits at
the head of a long table. Deputy Director Deevers handles
the introductions.
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
Sir, I've called this briefing to
update you on the Frank Abagnale
situation.
DIRECTOR MARSH
Who?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
92.
148 CONTINUED: 148
7
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
The Skywayman. Agent Shaye from bank
fraud has been the point man on this
case, and I'll let him fill you in.
Joe walks to the front of the room, stands in front of a
SLIDE PROJECTOR.
JOE SHAYE
Director Marsh, Frank Abagnale is no
longer forging checks. He's moved
on to counterfeiting, making his own
Pan Am expense checks from scratch.
Next slide.
The slide changes.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
The amounts have increased to almost
one thousand dollars per check, and
the quality, as you can see, is
virtually flawless.
CTOR MARSH
How much ha' glen so far?
JOE' E
Our latest estim of about three
and a half million s. He's now
the most successful bber in
the history of the Un ates.
DIRECTOR MARSH is holding one of Frank's checks, running his
hands along the printed blue and white surface.
DIRECTOR MARSH
And how close are you to getting
him?
JOE SHAYE
Sir, with your help I feel an arrest
could come at any time. We believe
he could be in New Orleans.
DIRECTOR MARSH
I'll give you thirty more agents and
I'll bump him up to the ten most
wanted list.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
93.
148 CONTINUED: (2) 148
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
Sir, he's only seventeen-years-old.
We've never put a child on the ten
most wanted list before. What are we
gonna tell the President?
DIRECTOR MARSH
The President keeps his money in a
bank. We'll tell him he's fair game
like the rest of us.
149 INT. - VILLAGE INN BAR. - AFTERNOON 149
Frank walks into the bar wearing a black suit. He sees his
father sitting in the corner wearing a POSTAL UNIFORM and
drinking a beer. The place is filled with the afternoon
regulars, all watching TV. Frank walks up to his Dad and
sets a DIME in front of him.
FRANK
How about a little music, Dad?
FRANK SR.
I took a job. A government job. You
see what I'm doing? Do you have a
good lawyer?
FRANK
Dad, I am a lawyer.
FRANK SR.
Look at this letter.
(handing Frank a letter)
They kicked me out. They took away
my membership at the Rotary Club.
They accused me of terrible things,
made up a list of lies just to keep
me out. I'm gonna sue them, a lifetime
membership is what I have. I have
the plaque, the letters of
congratulations.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -'.
94.
149 CONTINUED: 149
FRANK
Has Mom seen you dressed like that?
FRANK SR.
Your mother doesn't know what she
wants.
FRANK
We'll go out together and get you a
suit. A new black suit. One of those
Manhattan Eagle three button black
pearls.
FRANK SR.
Those are nice. We'll have a drink
first.
FRANK
Dad, I'm getting married in two weeks-
I'm buying a sixty thousand dollar
house, a new Cadillac. I'm getting
it all back, everything they took
from us. I wa you and Mom to come
to the wedd' g ogether.
FRANK
You have to ask herd o ve to
fight for her. Prom is Q u won't
let her see you dressed a this.
FRANK SR.
She won't come, because she just had
a baby.
Frank stares at his father for a long BEAT.
FRANK SR. (cont'd)
A little girl. She had a little girl.
150 INT. - MIDWAY AIRLINES COCKPIT. - NIGHT 150
Frank is clearly upset as he sits in the jump-seat, lost in
thought. The PILOT gets out of his seat, turns back to Frank.
PILOT
Were leveled off. You mind taking
her for a minute, I need to use the
bathroom.
(CONTINUED)
r,, hhin 7rnn _ r+
95_
150 CONTINUED: 150
Frank stares at the empty seat as the Pilot moves past him.
FRANK
Wait. What are you doing?
PILOT
I need five minutes. I'd do it for
you.
The Pilot walks out of the cockpit, and Frank turns to the
CO-PILOT.
FRANK
He left .
CO-PILOT
He's got an ulcer.
Frank gets out of the JUMP-SEAT, walks over and sits in the
PILOT'S SEAT. He looks at the instruments, the WHEEL moving
on it's own in front of him.
Frank stares out the front wir�r2>;s w' p the cockpit -- the
blackness in front of him - - hi starting to shake as
he slowly reaches up and puts his ds on the wheel --
14
FRANK
Okay. Shut it off.
The Auto-Pilot flips the switch, and Frank holds on for dear
life as he flies the plane into the darkness.
151 INT. - JOE SHAYE'S OFFICE. - NIGHT 151
Joe is sleeping in the chair in his office. The phone rings,
and he quickly answers.
JOE SHAYE (ON PHONE)
This is Shaye.
INTERCUT WITH
Debbie Zane -
96.
l f 152 INT. AIRPORT. - NIGHT 152
FRANK
Hello, Joe. Merry Christmas.
Joe grabs a pad and pencil.
JOE SHAYE
I thought you might call. Where are
you?
FRANK
I don't know, exactly. An airport
somewhere.
JOE SHAYE
What do you want, Doctor Connors?
FRANK
Joe, I haven't been Doctor Connors
for months now.
SHAYE
Fuck you. I' fitting here in my
office on C r -Eve, so just
tell me what o
FRAN
It's over. I want ver now.
I'm getting married.' �Vttling
down.
JOE SHAYE
You've stolen four million dollars. t
You think we're just gonna call it a
wedding present? This isn't something
you get to walk away from, Frank.
FRANK
I want to call a truce
JOE SHAYE
There is no truce. You will be caught,
and you will go to prison. Where did
you think this was going?
FRANK
Please, leave me alone, Joe. I don't
want to do it anymore. Don't make me
do it anymore-
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
97.
152 CONTINUED: 152
JOE SHAYE
I'm close aren't I? You're scared
because I'm getting close. How close
am I?
FRANK
Will you stop chasing me?
JOE SHAYE
I can't stop. This is my job.
FRANK
It's okay, Joe. I just thought I'd
ask.
153 INT. - NEW ORLEANS BALLROOM. - FRENCH QUARTER. - NIGHT 153
MARDI GRAS is in full swing.
A crush of people walking down BOURBON STREET. Joe Shaye is
pushing through the crowd of people, Amdursky and Fox next
to him as he makes his way into the crowd.
Joe motions behind hiWM'fere TWENTY AGENTS quickly split up
and start walking thr ugh Quarter.
CLOSE ON FRANK
Standing on a HOTEL BALCONY aft ourbon Street, wearing a
MASK and watching the FBI AG EIS hey move through the
French Quarter.
JOE SHAYE turns and looks up at the balcony, staring right
at Frank for a BEAT before he continues through the chaos.
154 INT. - HOTEL BALLROOM. - DAY 154
An ENGAGEMENT PARTY is going on - - A HUNDRED PEOPLE IN
ELABORATE COSTUMES AND GOWNS. Brenda, dressed in a mask and
corset, is standing with some girlfriends -- showing them
her engagement ring.
Frank takes off his mask, and WE SEE the fear in his eyes-as
he walks over to Brenda.
FRANK
Come with me.
Debbie Zane -
98.
155 INT. - COAT ROOM. - NEW ORLEANS HOTEL BALLROOM.. - NIGHT 155
Frank pulls Brenda into the COAT ROOM. They are surrounded
by fur coats, expensive black overcoats, a row of black hats.
Brenda kisses him.
BRENDA
Frank, can you believe this party is
for us?
FRANK
We have to leave, Brenda. You love
me, right? I mean, you would love me
no matter what?
BRENDA
Of course.
FRANK
If I was poor, or sick, or if T' had
a different name.
A name means n i g, right? My
name is Frank Co �s. That's who I
am with you. We al secrets.
Sometimes when I tr 1 use the
name Frank Williams t r� my secret.
BRENDA
Frank Williams?
FRANK
It means nothing -- Frank Williams,
Frank Black -- when I'm with you,
I'm Frank Connors -- that's all that
matters.
BRENDA
Why are you saying this?
FRANK
Brenda, I don't want to lie anymore.
I'm not a doctor. I never went to
medical school.
Brenda smiles, thinks he's joking.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
99.
155 CONTINUED: 155
FRANK (CONT'D)
And I'm not a lawyer or a Harvard
graduate or a Lutheran. I ran away
from home a year and a half ago when
I was sixteen.
BRENDA
Stop teasing me, Frank. You're Frank
Connors, right? You're Frank Connors
and you're 28-years-old. Why would
you lie to me?
Brenda turns to Frank, trying not to get upset.
BRENDA (CONT'D)
Frank, what's your name? I want you
to tell me your name.
FRANK
We'll go to Liverpool. We can live
there, Brenda, you and I can live
wherever we want. I have money, enough
for the rest our lives. But you're
gonna have ust me. Do you trust
me? Do you 1ov,
I love you.
FRANK
No matter what. Even ave to
live in Liverpool, or I a
different name -- you'll still love
II
me?
BRENDA
(UPSET)
I love you, Frank. I love you.
FRANK
But we'll never tell anyone the truth.
You can't tell you parents.
BRENDA
No. We won't tell anyone. And we'll
go away. I don't care if I ever see
my parents again. I just want to be
with you.
FRANK
We'll leave tonight.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
100.
155 CONTINUED: (2) 155
BRENDA
But the wedding is next month. It's
all planned. We can leave right after
the reception, just like a honeymoon.
FRANK
No, we have to leave today. I'll
pick you up at your parents house in
two hours.
BRENDA
Two hours?
FRANK
We'll get married in Liverpool. Would
you like that?
BRENDA
Yes. I love you, Frank. But please,
before we go -- tell me your name.
156 INT. - FRANK'S APARTMENT. - NEW ORLEANS. - NIGHT 156
Frank is packing a su e with HUNDRED DOLLAR BILLS. He is
trying to get the sui close, sitting on top of it --
the money spilling out s.
157
A heavy rain is falling as Fr es toward Brenda's
parents' house. As he turns ont street, HE SEES FIVE
PATROL CARS parked in front of th use. Neighbors have
lined the street, and TWO STATE TROOPERS are guarding the
front of the house with SHOTGUNS.
FRANK stops the car, stares in stunned disbelief at the police
in front of the house.
Sirens are wailing in the distance as Frank puts his head on
the steering wheel and closes his eyes.
158 INT. - BRENDA'S PARENTS' HOUSE. - NIGHT. 158
Robert and Carol are sitting in the living room with Brenda,
holding her in their arms as two POLICE OFFICERS stand across
from them. Brenda is crying, holding her cat as Joe Shaye
kneels in front of her.
JOE SHAYE
Hello, Brenda. My name is Joe Shaye,
and I'm with the FBI.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
101.
158 CONTINUED: 158
Brenda keeps her face buried in her father's shirt.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
That's a pretty cat. What's his
name?
BRENDA
Ringo.
JOE SHAYE
I know this is all a bit scary, but
I need you to tell me where Frank is
going. A lot of people are looking
for him out there, and the last thing
we want is for Frank to get hurt.
And I swear to you, Brenda, if you
tell me where he's going -- I'll
keep him safe.
BRENDA
You promise?
J SHAPE
Yes. I prom" e Just tell me where
he's going.
Liverpool.
159 INT. - NEW ORLEANS AIRPORT. 159
Frank is walking through an airpo /He rushes over to a TWA
TICKET COUNTER that is closing down for the night.
FRANK
Are there any more flights tonight?
TICKET AGENT
I'm sorry, Sir, there's nothing until
morning. This airport shuts down at
eleven.
160 INT. - FBI OFFICES. - MIAMI. - DAY 160
Joe Shaye stands in front of TWENTY FBI AGENTS, pacing.
JOE SHAYE
We have to stop him before he leaves
the country. I want everyone we have
inside Miami International. He's
used that airport before, he knows
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
102.
160 CONTINUED: 160
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
the layout. One way or another, he'll
end up there.
FOX
He doesn't have a passport, Joe.
JOE SHAYE
In the last six months he's gone to
Harvard and Berkeley -- I'm betting
he can get a passport.
AMDURSKY
I already talked to the Miami police,
they've offered fifty uniformed cops
in two shifts of twenty-five.
FOX
Joe, with our guys that's almost a
hundred men in one airport. Don't
you think we should spread it around.
SHAYE
No. Miami i h'ff exit point. Now all
we have to o tch him.
161 INT. - HALL OF RECORDS. " I I - DAY 161
0
Frank walks into the HALL OF
FRANK
Excuse me. Where do you p the
death records?
162 INT. - STATE DEATH RECORDS ARCHIVE ROOM. - DAY 162
Frank is looking through a thick book. All of the entries
are for 1938, and Frank is quickly scanning pages. He stops
when he sees the following entry.
FRANK TAYLOR BORN DEC. 3. 1938. DIED DEC. 8 1938.
AGE -- FIVE DAYS. MOTHER'S MAIDEN NAME - PENNER.
163 INT. - BIRTH CERTIFICATE OFFICES. - CITY HALL. 163
Frank walks up to a window at MIAMI CITY HALL and smiles at
the WOMAN behind the counter.
FRANK
Hello. I'd like to get a copy of my
birth certificate, please.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
103.
163 CONTINUED: 163
CITY HALL WOMAN
I'll need your name, date of birth,
mother's maiden name and the county
and hospital you were born in_
FRANK
The name is Frank Taylor. I was born
December 3, 1938, in Tampa.
164 INT. - PASSPORT OFFICE. - FEDERAL BUILDING. - MIAMI. 164
Frank walks up to the window at the passport office.
FRANK (CONT'D)
I'd like to get a passport, please.
PASSPORT EMPLOYEE 11.
Have you ever had a passport before?
FRANK
Never.
P PORT EMPLOYEE
I'll need a 0 0 of your birth
certificate.
F \\ /,
I brought it wit h=- �Si�
Frank takes the birth certifi ed' of his pocket and sets
it on the counter.
FRANK (CONT'D)
Will this take long. I'm trying to
catch a flight.
165 INT. - FONTAINEBLEAU HOTEL. - MIAMI. - DAY 165
A NEW PASSPORT
sits on a desk in the plush, PENTHOUSE SUITE of the
FONTAINEBLEAU HOTEL. Frank stands at the window looking out
at a perfect Miami sunset as he talks on the phone.
FRANK (ON PHONE)
This is Frank Taylor, and I'm letting
all the universities in the area
know that Pan Am will be initiating
a new recruiting program this year.
I'll be stopping by your campus
tomorrow morning.
Debbie Zane - '•
104.
166 EXT. - UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI. - DAY 166
Frank wears his pilots uniform and carries a black briefcase
as he walks past a group of students who are protesting the
war.
167 INT. - GYMNASIUM. - UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI. - DAY 167
Three hundred students, ALL FEMALE, sit on the bleachers of
a gymnasium staring up at MR. HENDRICKS, the DIRECTOR OF
STUDENT PLACEMENT.
MR. HENDRICKS
Ladies, quiet down, please. As you
all know, Pan Am has sent 'a pilot
here to interview prospective
stewardesses for a new Summer
internship program. This is Captain
Taylor, and he'll be talking to you
today.
Frank stands in front of the girls, who suddenly get very
quiet.
F
Thank you all ing. At the end
of the day Ill icking eight
young ladies to of Pan Am's
first "future stew ' flight
crew program. Thes Ai girls
will accompany me on onth
public relations tour o rope this
Summer, where they will learn first
hand what it takes to be a Pan Am
stewardess.
168 EXT. - MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. - DAY 168
WE SEE FBI AGENTS, UNIFORMED COPS, UNDERCOVER COPS and local
detectives all taking their positions in and around the
airport. it looks like they're preparing for war, and Joe
Shaye is in the middle of it all.
169 INT. - INTERVIEW ROOM. - UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI. - DAY 169
Frank sits behind a desk holding a notebook as he INTERVIEWS
a young FEMALE STUDENT.
FRANK
Judy, what does the word "abroad"
mean to you?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
105.
169 CONTINUED: 169
JUDY
When I hear the word abroad, I think
of crossing the ocean and traveling
to distant lands.
FRANK
Thank you.
170 INT. - INTERVIEW ROOM. - LATE 170
Frank has drawn a picture of an AIRPLANE ON A CHALKBOARD. He
is pointing to various sections of the plane.
FRANK
And what's this, Monica?
MONICA
The wing.
FRANK
Very good- And this?
The tail.
Excellent.
171 INT. - GYMNASIUM. - DAY 171
This is the moment of truth. Al ` - We0birls are standing, and
Frank is reading from a list.
FRANK
Debra Jo McMillian.
DEBRA JO comes screaming out from the sea of girls, hugging
friends and crying as if she had just won the Ms. America
Pageant.
FRANK (CONT'D)
Heather Shack.
HEATHER SHACK screams and rushes into Debra Jo's arms, the
two girls screaming as Frank continues to announce the
winners.
172 EXT. - MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. - DAY 172
Miami Police Officers are spread out in front of the airport,
looking bored as they drink coffee and pace back and forth.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
106.
172 CONTINUED: 172
A STATION WAGON pulls up to the front of the airport, and
TWO COPS WATCH as EIGHT BEAUTIFUL COLLEGE GIRLS walk out,
all dressed as flight attendants, all holding luggage.
The cops never even glance at Frank, who stands in the middle
of the girls as they walk into the airport.
173 INT_ - MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. - DAY 173
Frank walks through the packed terminal surrounded by the
EIGHT GIRLS, all walking in stride, their hair and make-up
perfect, every man in the airport turning to stare.
Frank and the girls walk past TWO FBI AGENTS, who can't help
but smile at the girls -- who in turn smile back.
FBI AGENT #1'
Did you see that blonde in front?
FBI AGENT #2
I should've been a pilot.
174 INT. - MIAMI AIRPORT COE SHOP. - DAY 174
Joe Shaye is sitting '1n FEE SHOP that looks down over
the entire INTERNATIONA R 1AL. HE HEARS an announcement
over the airport P.A. sy
P.A. O (V.0.)
Will Mr. Joe Shaye k a white
courtesy phone. Mr. J e, please
pick up a white courtes one.
in the distance, JOE watches as the eight girls walk toward
him. He hesitates for a BEAT, then walks to the back of the
restaurant and finds a WHITE PHONE.
JOE SHAYE
This is Shaye.
INTERCUT WITH
175 INT. - MIAMI AIRPORT TICKETING AREA. - DAY 175
AMDURSKY
Joe, you're walkie talkie wasn't
working. There's a guy in a Pan Am
uniform sitting in a white Cadillac
in front of terminal J!
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
107.
175 CONTINUED: 175
JOE SHAYE
That's the charter terminal. Can you'
see his face?
AMDURSKY
He's got his Pilot's cap on. I think
it's him!
176 INT. - AIRPORT. - DAY 176
Joe Shaye is running through the airport, sprinting past
Frank and the college girls as he makes his way outside.
177 EXT. - MIAMI AIRPORT - WHITE CADILLAC. - DAY 177
FORTY FBI AGENTS and MIAMI POLICE OFFICERS slowly approach
the white Cadillac. Joe Shaye has his gun drawn.
JOE SHAYE
Frank, get out of the car! Put your
hands on the hood! There's no place
to run, so just make it easy on
yourself!
The car door opens, aMd YEAR-OLD kid gets out of the
car, his hands shaking s e(jtares at Joe -- the pilot's
cap falling off his head.
KID
Don't shoot me ! I ' m\§ ,s` ' ,driver!
A man paid me a hundr ars to
wear this uniform and p someone
up at the airport!
II
JOE SHAYE
who are you picking up?
KID
Joe Shaye.
Joe lowers his gun, immediately turns back toward theairport --
watches as a BRITISH AIRWAYS JET takes off and flies overhead,
banking left and sailing out over the ocean.
178 INT. - JOE SHAYE'S OFFICE. - WASHINGTON D.C. - DAY 178
Snow is falling outside Joe's office window, which overlooks
a parking lot. Joe sits at his desk staring down at some
COUNTERFEIT CHECKS. A SECRETARY WALKS in and hands him an
envelope.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
108.
178 CONTINUED: 178
SECRETARY
This just came for you, Sir. Who do
you know in Liverpool?
Joe takes the envelope and slowly opens it. He pulls out a
stack of BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOGRAPHS, all of which show the
EIGHT COLLEGE GIRLS in various locations. There are shots of
them on the SPANISH STEPS IN ROME, at the EIFFEL TOWER, in
front of BUCKINGHAM PALACE, and in front of SCOTLAND YARD.
A POSTCARD OF THE MONA LISA is inside the envelope, with the
words "WISH YOU WERE HERE" written across the back.
179 EXT. - MONTPELIER FRANCE. - DAY 179
The vineyards of Montpelier stretch across the Bas Languedoc
valley, where tourists drive through on their way to the
Mediterranean. Frank is eating an ice cream as he walks down
the main street, the shops and restaurants open and busy for
the summer. Frank stops a DELIVERY BOY on a bicycle.
FRANK
Excuse me. Do u know where the
Lavalier fa lives?
180 EXT. - LAVALIER HOME. 180
Frank is knocking on the dbe Oo the main house of a small
vineyard. MONIQUE LAVALIER, answers the front door
holding a baby.
FRANK
Hello. Do you speak English?
Monique nods.
FRANK (CONT'D)
My name is Frank. My mother is Paula
Lavalier. I was hoping to find my
family.
Monique takes Frank by the hand, starts to smile.
MONIQUE
I am Monique, your aunt.
Monique hugs him, kisses his cheeks.
MONIQUE (CONT'D)
(IN FRENCH)
Pappa! Paula's boy is here!
Debbie Zane - 5
109.
181 INT. - LAVALIER HOME. - DINNER TABLE. - LATE 181
The entire family is sitting around the dinner table, staring
at Frank as he takes a sip of wine.
FRANK
It's very good wine.
The family starts to laugh at him.
FRANK (CONT'D)
What?
MARCEL
The wine here is shit. This valley
only grows shit wine. It is used for
stretching.
FRANK
What's stretching?
MONIQUE
They send our ne by truck to the
famous vine r of Bordeaux and
Burgundy, a d mix it with the
good wine to r (he people.
PAPP
The Americans thi
only the best. But
drinking the shit fro
Everyone laughs hysterically, and Frank joins in, the family
laughing together as they eat Sunday dinner.
182 INT. - LAVALIER HOME. - NIGHT. 182
Frank is sitting in the living room staring at a photo album.
He sees the old picture of his mother and father sitting on
the American tank.
MONIQUE
Here. Your mother sent me this to me
a few months ago.
Monique hands Frank a color photograph. Frank looks at the
picture, sees Paula standing with Jack Wright, holding a
BABY in her arms.
MONIQUE (CONT'D)
You look like your new sister.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
110.
182 CONTINUED: 182
Frank stares at the picture, then hands the picture back to
Monique.
FRANK
Everyone says that.
183 INT. - UNIVERSITY OF MONTPELIER. - DAY 183
Frank walks into a large classroom filled with COLLEGE
FRESHMAN. He turns and writes his name on the blackboard:
MR. WAGNER.
FRANK
My name is Frank Wagner, and I'll be
teaching the Summer session of
American History, the same course I
taught at Yale last year. Why don't
you all open your books to chapter
one, read quietly to yourselves.
184 INT. - LAVALIER HOUSE. - NIGHT 184
The family is eating di r together, and Frank looks
surprised as Pappa La r brings a birthday cake out from
the kitchen. As every nS is to sing-..
F o.)
Dear Dad. I'm re ad %ow, living a
quiet life in a sm lage in
France. I hope you g well,
and you're not mad at running
away.
Frank blows out the candles on the cake.
FRANK (V.0.) (cont'd)
Yesterday was my 19th birthday, and
when I blew out the candles I wished
that we could all be together, the
three of us living in our old house
in New Rochelle.
185 EXT. - LAVALIER HOUSE. - DAY 185
Frank is working in the garden, surrounded by roses. Monique
walks out of the house.
MONIQUE
I have to pick Pappa up, his car is
dead. Come with me, Frank, you can
see where he works?
Debbie Zane - 5
186 EXT. - WAREHOUSE. - OUTSKIRTS OF TOWN. - DAY 186
Frank and Monique pull up to the front of a large warehouse.
FRANK
What is this place?
MONIQUE
The family business.
FRANK
I thought the family business was
wine?
MONIQUE
No. Paper.
187 INT. - PRINT SHOP. - DAY 187
CLOSE ON A PROFESSIONAL PRINTING PRESS, 90 FEET LONG, TEN
FEET WIDE.
The giant machine fills warehouse. SIX MEN work in the
massive press room, t r afening THUMP of the machine shaking
the walls as it strugYle, it out 10 COLOR PAGES a minute.
WE SEE samples of their ning the walls -- FRENCH
NEWSPAPERS, COLOR POSTER RTISEMENTS.
CLOSE ON FRANK
staring up at the giant PRINTIN his body limp, h is
face cold. Pappa Lavalier, shift and smoking, walks
toward him with a big smile.
PAPPA
What do you think?
FRANK
I've read books about these machines.
But I've never seen one.
PAPPA
You want me to show you how it works?
FRANK
Yes.
PAPPA
For color printing we set the back
gears, then put the plates in up-
side-down, pour the ink in last,
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
112.
187 CONTINUED: 187
PAPPA (CONT'D)
never when it's cold, then we roll
the cylinder brakes until they
catch...
CLOSE ON FRANK
Lost in his own world, his mind racing as he stares at every
part of the machine -- his eyes cold with excitement and
dread.
188 INT. - PRINTING ROOM. - NIGHT 188
The PRINTING PRESS is thumping and grinding, the lights low,
the press room empty except for Frank, who stands at one end
of the machine, his shirt off, working like a man obsessed
as he operates the massive press by himself -- THOUSANDS OF
PERFECT BLUE AND WHITE PAN AM CHECKS SLIDING OFF THE PAPER
ROLLS AND DROPPING TO THE FLOOR.
189 INT. - LAVALIER HOUSE. - MONTPELIER. - NIGHT 189
Frank reaches into the k of the closet and pulls out his
PILOT'S UNIFORM. As h s ps on the jacket, Monique walks in
and turns on the light. i ees his suitcase on the bed.
FRANK
I don't know.
190 INT. - FBI OFFICE. - WASHINGTON.
Joe Shaye is sitting in his office trying to use an electric
pencil sharpener, which is broken. As Joe pulls out a half-
eaten pencil, Fox and Amdursky walk in holding an envelope,
big smiles on their faces.
AMDURSKY
Joe...he cashed a check in Madrid.
191 INT. - FBI OFFICES. - WASHINGTON D.C. - DAY 191
Joe, Wilkes, Amdursky and Fox are facing Director Marsh, a
stack of checks on the desk in front of him.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
113.
191 CONTINUED: 191
JOE SHAYE
Singapore. Australia. South America:'
Egypt. He's also hit almost every
major bank in Europe.
FBI DIRECTOR MARSH
How many checks?
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
Thousands.
FBI DIRECTOR MARSH
Why wasn't I called?
JOE SHAYE
Nobody was called, Sir. The banks
didn't know what was happening until
last week. We think he's been on the
run for five months.
FBI DIRECTOR MARSH
That's impossible. Pan Am would have
called us.
They didn't c
forging -- and
counterfeiting.
JOE SHAYE
He's making real checks, Sir. These
are so perfect, Pan Am cashed them
all.
FBI DIRECTOR MARSH
where is he?
JOE SHAYE
The last check was cashed in Paris a
week ago. He'll stay there another
week before he moves on. We have to
go now, Sir, today!
FBI DIRECTOR MARSH
Go where?
JOE SHAYE
Paris.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
114.
191 CONTINUED: (2) 191
FBI DIRECTOR MARSH
I'm sorry, Joe. If we couldn't catch'
him here, we're not gonna catch him
there.
192 INT. - JOE SHAYE'S OFFICE. - NIGHT 192
Joe paces in his office, holding the phone and talking much
too loud, his voice echoing through the hallways.
JOE SHAYE
English. Do you speak English? I'm
an American FBI Agent. Hello? Shit!
Joe slams down the phone, walks out'of his office.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
Does anyone here speak French. I
need someone who speaks French!
193 INT. - FBI CONFERENCE ROOM. - DAY 193
Amdursky and Fox walk i the conference room with OLIVER,
a heavy set man who 1 terrified as they sit him down
next to Joe.
JOE SHAYE Jp
Agent Luc, I need you t anslate
for me.
FOX
He's not an agent, Joe. He's a waiter
at the restaurant around the corner.
194 INT. - FRENCH POLICE STATION. - DAY 194
POLICE DETECTIVE JULIEN, 40's, sits at his desk doing a
crossword puzzle in the middle of a busy French police
station. His phone rings, and he answers.
DETECTIVE JULIEN
Julien.
195 INT. - JOE SHAYE'S OFFICE. - DAY 195
Oliver is on the phone, nervously sitting behind Joe's desk.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
115.
195 CONTINUED: 195
JOE SHAYE
Who answered the phone? What's his
name.
OLIVER
His name is Detective Julien. He
works in the vice squad in Paris
JOE SHAYE
That's fine. Tell him I have a
proposition for him. Tell him the
FBI has a proposition for him.
Oliver translates as Joe paces in front of him.
OLIVER
Okay. What's the proposition?
JOE SHAYE
Ask him if he'd like to catch the
greatest bank robber the world has
ever known.
196
CLOSE ON
DETECTIVE JULIEN sitting al--h!ts ri�esk, his expression suddenly
changing as he glances aroun tation. He quickly puts
the crossword puzzle away and rips into the phone.
Abagnale.
197 EXT. - PARIS. - DAY
Frank steps out of the lobby doors or a hotel, walks toward
a waiting limousine. A DRIVER opens the door for him -- a
YOUNG KID that wears a black suit and hat.
FRENCH CHAUFFEUR
Where to, Mister Wagner?
FRANK
Let's go for a drive. I need some
supplies.
The limo drives off.
Debbie Zane - 5
116.
198 EXT. - PARIS STREETS 198
JOE SHAYE (V.0.)
When he gets to a new city he starts
out slow, hitting the banks on the
outskirts of town. At first it's
small checks in small banks that
pose little or no threat.
WE HEAR OLIVER'S TRANSLATION behind Joe's voice.
JOE SHAYE (V.O.) (cont'd)
Then he starts moving in, circling
the city like a mother hawk, picking
off every little bank he can find --
slowly inching his way toward the
center of the city.
199 INT. - STATIONARY STORE. - PARIS. - DAY 199
Frank stands at the counter of a stationery store, looking
into a glass case filled with expensive pens.
JOE SHA �1
There's always one ba 's bigger
and richer than all the ers. This
is what he came for, and he'll watch
it for days. He'll know if they add
a security-guard, or bring in a new
teller. And if he sees anything out
of place, a new cleaning man, a window
shade that's up instead of down,
he'll move on to the next one. That's
the luxury of having the entire world
as your mark.
200 EXT. - PARIS STREET. - DAY 200
CLOSE ON
DETECTIVE JULIEN -- standing in the middle of Paris, looking
down an endless row of massive banks.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
117.
200 CONTINUED: 200
JOE SHAYE (V.O.)
He'll make his move right before
lunch, when everyone's mind is on
food and the lines are short. And he
likes to stand out -- draw attention
to himself.
201 EXT. - BANK OF PARIS. - DAY 201
A massive bank in the middle of the city. WE SEE Frank's
limo pulling up to the curb, and Frank waiting for the driver
to open the door before he gets out.
JOE SHAYE (V.0.)
The more people see him, the more
invisible he becomes.
202 INT. - BANK OF PARIS. - DAY 202
Frank walks into the bank, takes out a leather case and opens
it, revealing a checkbook. He takes his Waldmann pen from
his pocket, smiles at a female TELLER.
Hello. I need sh this. My wife
and I are goi o(orway this
afternoon.
Frank turns the check over a tees L.
check to the teller, but she s take 1 it.
FRANK (CONT
Is there something wrong?
The bank teller is shaking and staring at Frank. He slowly
turns around, sees DETECTIVE JULIEN standing behind him with
his gun drawn.
203 INT. - FBI CONFERENCE ROOM. - NIGHT 203
Joe, Amdursky, and Fox are all half asleep, waiting in the
FBI CONFERENCE ROOM. The clock on the wall reads 3 a.m. --
and the phone finally rings.
Before he even picks it up, Joe Shaye starts to smile.
204 INT. - FRENCH COURTROOM. - DAY 204
A packed courtroom. Frank's hands and legs are shackled. He
stands before a JUDGE who is reading his sentence.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
118.
204 CONTINUED:
204
FRENCH JUDGE
(IN FRENCH)
Frank William Abagnale Jr., I sentence
you to two years in Papigone prison.
205 INT. - PAPIGONE PRISON. - PARIS. - DAY 205
A cell door closes.
206 INT. - AIR FRANCE AIRPLANE FLIGHT 676. - DAY 206
Frank and Joe Shaye are sitting next to each other in the
back of the plane. Through the window Frank can see the
skyline of Manhattan. Amdursky and Fox are smoking in the
aisle.
FRANK
Joe, you have to let me call my father
when we land- I want to talk to him
before he sees me on television.
JOE SHAYE
Your father i ead, Frank. I'm sorry.
Frank turns to Joe.
JOu i (cont' d)
He committed su 0�.cL didn't want
to be the one to t
FRANK
Suicide. No. That's imps 'ibl
JOE SHAYE
They found him inside his car, the
motor running, the garage door shut.
FRANK
who are they to think that? Who are
they to say something like that?!
JOE SHAYE
It's okay, Frank.
FRANK
Joe, I'm gonna be sick! I have to
use the bathroom.
Joe quickly takes off Frank's handcuffs, and he jumps from
his seat and runs into the bathroom. Joe stands in the aisle
with Amdursky and Fox.
Debbie Zane - 5
119.
207 INT. - AIR FRANCE PLANE BATHROOM. - MOMENTS LATER. 207'
Frank is on his knees, tears running down his face as he
uses the METAL TIP OF A FORK to unscrew a hard plastic plate
above the toilet. The screws come free, and Frank is able to
pull the entire TOILET UNIT away from the wall. He makes
his way into a tiny crawispace, then pulls the toilet back
against the wall.
208 EXT. - AIR FRANCE PLANE MAIN CABIN. - MINUTES LATER. 208
Joe Shaye checks his watch as a FLIGHT ATTENDANT walks past
him and smiles.
AIR FRANCE STEWARDESS
You'll have to take your seat, Sir.
We're about to land.
Joe knocks on the bathroom door.
JOE SHAYE
Frank.
(CONT' D)
Frank! Come on;''rMnk, open the door!
Damn it...Frank! O
JOE SHAYE
1.4
Break it down.
Amdursky starts kicking at the bathroom door, slamming his
heel against the metal release. The door breaks free, and
the three men stares in disbelief at the EMPTY BATHROOM.
209 EXT. - AIR FRANCE PLANE/KENNEDY AIRPORT RUNWAY.-MOMENTS 209
LATER.
The plane has landed and stopped short on the runway. WE SEE
Frank crawling through a HATCH near the landing gear. He
drops fifteen feet to the ground below, starts running across
the runway.
210 INT. - AIR FRANCE PLANE MAIN CABIN. - MOMENTS LATER 210
All of the passengers remain seated as Joe, Amdursky and Fox
stand in the aisle.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
120.
210 CONTINUED: 210
JOE SHAYS
Look under every seat, in every
bathroom. Check it all again, even
the cockpit!
As Joe starts moving through the plane, something outside
the window catches his eye.
211 EXT. - KENNEDY AIRPORT TARMAC. - DAY 211
He sees Frank sprinting across the tarmac, making his way
toward the terminal.
' 212 INT. - AIR FRANCE PLANE MAIN CABIN. - DAY 212
JOE SHAYE
God in heaven...
213 INT. - LONG ISLAND CHURCH. - MORNING. 213
A CHURCH CHOIR is singing COME HOME JESUS, Paula sitting in
the front row in a pale blue dress and snow white hat. As
the song ends, Paula se Frank enter the large, empty church.
He is dazed and off b a e, his body still weak from prison.
Mom...
Frank stumbles down the cent e, dropping to his knees
and fainting before he reach= h ter.
214 INT. - CHURCH OFFICE. - DAY. 214
FI
Frank opens his eyes, sees his mother standing at the window
in a PRIEST'S PRIVATE OFFICE -- a cigarette in her hand, a
row of collection plates on the desk in front of her...
PAULA
You want a sip of water?
Paula hands Frank some water. He sits up and stares at his
mother.
FRANK
Why didn't you help him?
PAULA
I did help him. Near the end I sent
him money, did you know that?
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
121.
214 CONTINUED: 214
PAULA (CONT'D)
I paid his rent. I was a kid when we
met, Frankie. I didn't even speak
English -- I didn't even know his
last name.
FRANK
Then why did you marry him?
PAULA
Because he got me pregnant. I was
seventeen, and I was told I was going
to marry him. They put me on a plane,
and said I was the luckiest girl in
the world.
FRANK
What about the baby?
PAULA
The baby died an hour after it was
born. The Doctor's knew as soon as
he came out.
Paula lights a fresh
CONT'D)
It was a boy. T telling me
I should hold him, didn't want
to. I was scared he ie in my
arms, so I said no. C imagine
that, Frank, I didn't to hold
my own son?
Frank walks toward his mother and takes the cigarette out of
her mouth.
FRANK
You promised.
He doesn't look back at her as he walks out the door.
215 EXT. - CHURCH. - DAY 215
Frank looks dazed as he walks out of the small Church- As he
makes his way down the steps, FOUR BLACK VANS speed up next
to him, TWO TEAMS OF FBI AGENTS jumping out and grabbing
him, throwing him to the ground as he rolls over without a
fight, his body limp as he stares up at Joe Shaye.
Debbie Zane -
122.
216 INT. - COURTROOM. - DAY 216
Frank stands before a JUDGE who is sentencing him.
JUDGE
Taking into account your refusal to
give back the money, your history of
bold escape and your complete lack
of respect for the uniform of the
law, I have no choice but to sentence
you to eighteen years in Atlanta's
maximum security prison in Dixon
county, and recommend strongly that
you be kept in an isolation cell for
the entirety of that sentence.
217 INT. - MAXIMUM SECURITY PRISON - ATLANTA 217.
Frank stands in front of his cell in the isolation wing of
the prison. There are no bars, no windows, just square,
individual cell boxes. Frank walks into his cell, the door
closing behind him.
218 INT. - PRISON VISITINc/RSM. - DAY 218
Frank is wearing his pr1s f psuit as he's led into the
visitor's room and place n a chair that faces bulletproof
glass. Joe Shaye is sittin Qrdl4,s from him. They both pick
up their phones.
JOE SHAYE
Merry Christmas, Frank.
T
Frank doesn't answer him.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
I got some cigarettes here.
FRANK
I don't smoke.
An awkward moment as Joe puts the cigarettes on the floor.
JOE SHAYE
They say the first year inside is
the hardest.
FRANK
You caught me. What do you want?
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
123.
218 CONTINUED: 218
JOE SHAYE
I don't know. Maybe this was a bad
idea. I'll go.
As Joe starts to put the phone down.
FRANK
You're still wearing a wedding ring.
JOE SHAYE
Yeah. The truth is, I'm divorced-
I have a daughter who's nine.
FRANK
What's her name?
JOE SHP_YE
Vanessa. She lives in Chicago with
her mother. I don't see her much.
Frank stares at Joe for a BEAT.
I'm on my way el tJe airport. I'm
tracking a paper ge who's working
his way through Mi�t This guy
is driving us crazy.
FRANK
Do you have any of the checks?
FL
Joe hesitates, then opens his briefcase and takes out a CHECK.
He holds it against the glass.
JOE SHAYE
This is a counterfeit from Great
Lakes Savings and Loan. You can see
that he's using a...
FRANK
It's a teller at the bank.
JOE SHAYE
What?
FRANK
It's a teller.
(CONTINUED)
DEBBIE ZANE
124.
218 CONTINUED: (2) 218
JOE SHAYE
How do you know?
FRANK
Every bank uses hand stamps for the
dates. They get used over and over,
so they're always worn down, and the
numbers are always cracking -- the
sixes and nines go first. Look at
the date on that check -- the ink is
worn flat, the nines and sixes are
cracking -- that's the stamp of a
teller, Joe. Looks like you got
yourself an inside job.
219 INT. - PRISON. - NIGHT 219
Frank is lying in his cell, staring into the darkness.
FRANK
Eastern flight 794 you are clear to
taxi on runway_two-zero-four. That's
a big thank y, and goodbye, Newark.
Ladies and eman, we are leveled
off here at't five thousand
feet. The sm gns have been
turned off for of you in a
designated smoki My name is
Captain Frank Will so just
sit back, relax, an the flight
to Milan.
220 INT. - JAIL CELL. - ATLANTA PRISON. - NIGHT 220
The prison is locked down, the lights out for the night.
Joe Shaye and Director Marsh are passing rows of dark cells
as they make their way through the prison.
221 INT. - INTERROGATION ROOM. - NIGHT 221
Frank is sitting across from Joe and Director Marsh, a glass
of milk in front of him. TWO GUARDS stand behind him with
rifles. Frank is 23-years-old, but still has the boyish face
of a teenager.
FRANK
Joe, one of these days you should
get yourself a new jacket. What is
that material?
Frank touches Joe's jacket.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
125.
221 CONTINUED: 221
JOE SHAYE
Cashmere.
FRANK
That isn't cashmere -- look at the
lining. It's some kind of polyester.
You should see my tailor in New York.
FBI DIRECTOR MARSH
Can we do this, please?
JOE SHAYE
Frank, this is FBI Director Marsh.
He wanted to meet you.
FRANK
At four in the morning? 1 1
FBI DIRECTOR MARSH
Mr. Abagnale, you've served five
years of an eighteen year sentence
F K
That's righ ve years, two months.
TOR MARSH
I'd like you tcY o k at something
for me, tell me UO �%u think.
Director Marsh takes an enveldi j of a briefcase, slides
it over to Frank. Frank opens t lope and pulls out a
PAYROLL CHECK. He holds the check is hand, never looks
at it.
I;
FRANK
It's a fake.
FBI DIRECTOR MARSH
How do you know? You haven't looked
at it.
FRANK
There's no perforated edge, which
means this check was hand cut, not
fed. The paper is double bonded,
much too heavy for a check. The ink
is raised against my fingers instead
of flat.
Frank brings the check to his nose, sniffs it.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
126.
221 CONTINUED: (2) 221
FRANK (cont' d)
This doesn't smell like micker. It's'
probably drafting ink, the kind you
buy at a stationery store.
Joe and Director Marsh exchange a look.
FBI DIRECTOR MARSH
Frank, would you be interested in
working with the FBI's fraud and
counterfeiting unit?
FRANK
I already have a job here. I deliver
the mail.
JOE SHAYE
No, Frank. We'd get you out.
FRANK
Why are you saying this, Joe? You
caught me, isn't that enough? Why
can't you lea ' me alone?
ECTOR MARSH
Frank, we ha wer to take you
out of prison. be placed in
the custody of t where you'd
serve the remainde ur sentence
as an employee of t al
government.
FRANK
Whose custody?
JOE SHAYE
Mine.
222 INT. - FBI FIELD OFFICE. - DALLAS, TEXAS. - DAY 222
SUPER: MARCH 29 1973
Frank wears a brand new black suit as he walks into the
massive FBI BUILDING. He approaches a SECURITY GUARD.
FRANK
I'm Frank Abagnale. I'm supposed to
start work here today.
SECURITY GUARD
First floor, Mr. Abagnale.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
127.
222 CONTINUED: 222
FRANK
Call me Frank.
223 INT. - FBI BUILDING. - THIRD FLOOR. - DAY 223
Frank makes his way down a long hallway, passing other young
men in dark suits who have come out of their offices to see
him pass. Frank sees Joe Shaye standing at the end of the
hall.
FRANK
Morning, Joe.
Frank turns and stares at a door marked FRAUD. He casually
walks inside.
224 INT. - FRANK'S FBI OFFICE. - DAY 224,
A stack of files sit on Frank's desk. There are hundreds of
CHECKS, MUG SHOTS, PILES OF COUNTERFEIT MONEY. Frank looks
out the window of his office, stares out at the DALLAS
SKYLINE.
Look at me,
225 INT. - APARTMENT. - DALLAS H DAY. 225
O
Frank walks through the door ny, run down apartment.
Joe Shaye stands at the door.
FRANK
I'd rather stay in a hotel.
JOE SHAYE
That's not possible.
Frank opens the drapes and looks out at a POLICE STATION
that sits across the street from his apartment.
FRANK
One of the men gave me a check today.
It was for nine dollars.
JOE SHAYS
That's right. The FBI is paying you
prison wages.
Joe turns to walk out the door.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
128.
225 CONTINUED: 225
FRANK
Tomorrow's Christmas Eve. Would it
be okay if I went to work with you?
JOE SHAYE
Tomorrow night I'm flying to Chicago
to see my daughter. But I'll be back
at work on Monday.
FRANK
Joe. . .what do I do until Monday?
JOE SHP_YE
I can't help you there, kid.
226 INT. - FBI OFFICES. - DAY 226
Frank sits alone eating a sandwich, looking through a BOOK
OF MUG SHOTS. He stops when he sees his own MUG SHOT, the
black and white picture staring up at him.
Frank carefully rips the mug shot out of the book and puts
it in his pocket.
227
Frank is walking the stre' s carrying a small bag of
groceries as he makes his Oh e. Something in a STORE
WINDOW catches his eye, and F ,tands frozen on the corner,
looking across at a WINDOW DI
CLOSE ON
THE WINDOW OF A COSTUME SHOP.
There are several MANNEQUINS dressed in different costumes.
Frank slowly approaches the window, stares at a mannequin
wearing an AIRLINE PILOT'S UNIFORM.
228 EXT. - DALLAS AIRPORT. - NIGHT 228
Frank gets out of a taxi wearing the PILOT'S UNIFORM. He
pulls his cap down tight as he makes his way into the busy
airport.
229 INT. - DALLAS AIRPORT COFFEE SHOP. - NIGHT 229
Frank sits alone at the airport coffee shop eating a hamburger
and reading a COMIC BOOK. Joe Shaye walks into the restaurant
and sits next to him.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
129.
229 CONTINUED: 229
JOE SHAYE
That's a nice uniform, Frank.
Here, let me get your check.
Joe grabs the check from Frank, puts some money on the table.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
Did you know I was recruited by the
FBI while I was still in law school?
The government said I was the best
the country had to offer, top of my
class -- and they chased me until I
said yes.
FRANK
I'm sorry, Joe.
JOE SHAYE
I spent four years arranging your
release. I convinced the Attorney
General of the United States that
you wouldn't run.
Frank gets out of his fir, walks out of the restaurant.
Joe follows him throw h, irport.
JO' : E (cont' d)
You go back to E pe r�pd you'll die
in Papigone. You run here
in the states and w 1 d you
back to Atlanta for f' ars.
FRANK
I never asked for your help.
JOE SHAYE
Please, Frank, you leave and I'm
finished. I got you out, I convinced
them to let you out.
FRANK
Why did you do it?
JOE SHAYE
You're just a kid.
FRANK
I'm not your kid. I'm not your son.
I'm nothing to you. And you're nothing
to me.
Frank walks toward the AMERICAN AIRLINES ticket counter.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
130.
229 CONTINUED: (2) 229
JOE SHAYE
I'm gonna let you fly tonight. I
won't even try and stop you, because
I know you'll be back on Monday.
FRANK
Why would I come back?
JOE SHAYE
Because nobody is chasing you.
Frank stares at Joe for a long BEAT.
FRANK
Two mice fell in a bucket of cream.
The first mouse gave up and drowned,
but the second mouse struggled so
hard he churned that cream into butter
and he crawled out.
JOE SHAYE
Which one are you, Frank?
Frank turns to the gin? ar the TICKET COUNTER.
1Ͽ�V
Hello, Amanda, � � s s �Jh e jump-seat open
on the ten-thirt ® N,wYork?
Joe watches as Frank walks thk oor marked CREW ONLY,
casually making his way toward D une.
230 INT. - JOE SHAYE'S OFFICE. - DAY 230 4
Joe sits at his desk drinking coffee. He checks his watch,
then calls out to his SECRETARY.
JOE SHAYE
is Abagnale in yet?
SECRETARY
No.
231 INT. - FBI OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM. - DAY 231
Joe Shaye is using the slide projector and standing in front
of TEN AGENTS, including Special Agent Wilkes.
JOE SHAYE
Good morning. I've called this
emergency briefing to discuss a check
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -
131.
231 CONTINUED: 231
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
fraud and counterfeiter who's been
hitting banks all over Arizona.
SPECIAL AGENT WILKES
Just tell us how much he's gotten,
Joe?
JOE SHAYE
Don't ask.
The briefing room door opens, and Frank walks in. Joe spots
him in the darkness.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
Good. You're here.
The two men stare at each other for a BEAT.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
At this time I'd like my point man
on this to fill you in. Frank, are
you ready to Ake over?
FRANK (
John Doe 6116 is a pa ; er who
started in Phoenix, usz at I
call a double deposit forgery system.
Next slide. What he's doing is opening
two accounts at the same bank under
two different names...
232 INT. - AIRPLANE. - DAY 232
Frank and Joe are sitting next to each other on a plane,
both holding magazines and eating nuts. Joe is wearing a
brand new BLACK SUIT. There are several other agents on the
plane, including Amdursky and Fox.
FRANK
Joe, do you guys always fly coach?
JOE SHAYE
Yeah.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane -:
132.
232 CONTINUED: 232
FRANK
You want me to talk to someone? See
if I can get us bumped to first class?
JOE SHAYS
Just relax. We'll be there in two
hours.
Frank looks out the window.
FRP.NK
I've never been to Arizona.
JOE SHAYE
It's hot. Let's just hope-we catch
this guy fast.
FRANK
Joe, you ever seen the Grand Canyon?
JOE SHAYE
No.
K
You think i w e time we can
take a quick ?( (-o
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
I feel a little silly in this suit.
FRANK
It looks good. You just have to get
used to it.
JOE SHAYE
How much did you say it cost?
FRANK
Eight hundred dollars.
JOE SHAYE
Where did you get eight hundred
dollars?
FRANK
Credit card.
(CONTINUED)
Debbie Zane - 5
133.
232 CONTINUED: (2) 232
JOE SHAYE
Somebody gave you a credit card?
That's a horrifying thought.
The two men sit in silence for a BEAT, staring down at their
magazines, lost in thought.
JOE SHAYE (cont'd)
Can I ask you something, Frank?
FRANK
Sure.
JOE SHAYE
How did you pass the bar exam in
Louisiana?
FRANK
I studied every night for two weeks.
JOE SHAYE
Is that the truth?
Frank turns to the wipf'or?, slowly starts to smile as he looks
out at the clouds.
FRANK ABAGNALE JR. HAS BEEN Qf MOR 25 YEARS. HE HAS
THREE TEENAGE SONS, AND LIVES r V LIFE IN TULSA, OKLAHOMA.
SINCE HIS RELEASE FROM PRISON IN Z, FRANK HAS HELPED THE
FBI CAPTURE SOME OF THE WORLDS MOST ALLUSIVE CHECK FORGERS
AND COUNTERFEITERS. FRANK HAS ALSO DEVELOPED MANY OF THE
SECURITY FEATURES THAT BANKS USE TO PREVENT CHECK FRAUD.
HE HOLDS SEVERAL PATENTS ON THESE FEATURES, AND TO THIS DAY
FRANK MAKES A ROYALTY ON ALMOST EVERY CHECK WRITTEN IN THE
UNITED STATES.
THOSE CHECK ROYALTIES PAY FRANK ABAGNALE MILLIONS OF DOLLARS
A YEAR.
TITLE CARD #2
JOE SHAYE RETIRED IN 1986, HAVING BEEN AWARDED THREE
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARDS FROM THE FBI.
FRANK ABAGNALE HAS FOUR.
THEY REMAIN CLOSE FRIENDS TO THIS DAY.
Debbie Zane -
