MONTE CARLO
Written by
Ron Bass
Based on the novel
"HEADHUNTERS"
by Jules Bass
THIRD DRAFT
November 4, 2007
OVER BLACK:
ALICE (V.0.)
Think of the future, and events
that will have already happened.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL CLASSROOM - DAY
ALICE PERRY (30s), her innate and amiable authority eclipsed
only by a self-consciousness about her hair, afraid perhaps
that she hasn't lived up to the promise of its red color,
chalks "Futur Anterieur" in precise cursive at the board.
ALICE
"By tomorrow, we will have flown to
France."
She turns to face her TENTH GRADE FRENCH CLASS.
Though Alice's make up, earrings and practical flats are
simple, there is an inherent elegance to their combination
that hints at a more complex, if uncharted, interior.
ALICE (CONT'D)
Who can give me an example? Paul?
NOTE: Throughout, all blocks of italicized dialogue should be
read as in FRENCH with ENGLISH subtitles.
PAUL
"I will have completed the assigned
translation by the end of
vacation."
ALICE
C'est bon! Amber?
AMBER
I will have failed French again by
the end of the year.
Alice pauses, regarding Amber with a pained sympathy.
ALICE
En francais si'l vows plait?
INT. HIGH SCHOOL CLASSROOM - DAY
EMMA
So, the definition of the
derivative of the function "f" at
point "x" is..?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 2.
CONTINUED:
EMMA LINDGARD (late 20's) rapidly scribbles a complex
calculus formula at the board while all of her TWELFTH GRADE
MALE STUDENTS avidly admire her shape in a tight, stylish
skirt and heels. She turns suddenly, smiling brightly.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Okay! Kyle?
KYLE snaps his eyes up to Emma's face, tries to cover.
KYLE
Um... I guess I'm a little lost.
If optimists see a glass as half full, Emma's is in a
constant state of cheerful, blonde overflow, even when a
level of wilfulness is required.
EMMA
Try to follow along. I really want
you guys to get this! David?
DAVID gazes back dumbly, stuck in an erotic fog.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Cindy?
IS
INT. HIGH SCHOOL - HOME ARTS LAB - DAY
TWO GIRLS ( 17) laugh conspiratorially, dredging woven pot
holders through an egg mixture and dropping them into a
sputtering pan, as the rest of the CLASS makes French toast.
The girls sneak looks at MEG KELLY (30's) who tears recipes
from a Gourmet magazine at her desk at the front of the room.
Dark hair pulled into a pony tail, face unadorned by makeup,
Meg's natural sexiness is muted by an air of indifference.
She glances up when the pan erupts in flames and the girls
leap back with a shriek, shakes her head.
The girls attempt to knock the pan from the burner with the
handle of a broom when a pot lid bangs down, instantly
snuffing the flames.
They shrink back as Meg waves the lid, clearing the smoke.
MEG
Do me a favor, and let's just try
to get to vacation.
The class bell RINGS!
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 3.
CONTINUED:
MEG (CONT'D)
You can burn the school down as
soon as we're back.
EXT. HIGH SCHOOL - DAY
Alice, a heavy bag slung over her shoulder, and her boyfriend
RICHARD (30's, scruffily handsome in sweats and a coach's
jersey), carrying three binders and a bag of baseball bats,
exit the school among a crush of students.
Together, they cross a lawn dotted with patches of late snow,
to the parking lot, stopping at Alice's weathered Volvo where
Richard hands over the binders with a kiss.
RICHARD
Got practice until five thirty,
then I'll be by.
ALICE
I'll see you then. Thanks.
They kiss again and Richard takes off for the athletic
fields, passing Meg as she comes from the school, waves.
RICHARD
Hey, Meg! Bon voyage!
Alice offers a binder to Meg as she arrives at Alice's car.
ALICE
I finished our travel binders!
Meg takes the binder, looks it over.
MEG
Remind me again why we're taking
phonebooks to France?
Alice gives her a look.
MEG (CONT'D)
I love my binder. I do.
ALICE
Where's Emma? She knows we're
meeting, right?
MEG
Forgot her purse.
(watching the students)
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 4.
CONTINUED:
MEG (CONT'D)
You know, for the first time in a
long time, I feel just as lucky as
any of these kids. They may have
their whole lives ahead of them but
we've got a week in Paris.
ALICE
Oh, that's right. I keep
forgetting your life is completely
over. So sad. I'm really going to
miss you.
MEG
Funny.
EMMA
Well, that was a close call!
They turn to see Emma. crossing the parking lot holding a
quality knock-off designer handbag over her head.
MEG
Look at her. The only teacher in
Racine County that wears four inch
heels in six feet of snow.
ALICE
She always looks great, doesn't
she?
ME G
(WITH AFFECTION)
Damn her.
EMMA
(ARRIVES)
My passport was in here!
MEG
Where'd you find it?
EMMA
Second floor girl's bathroom.
Right where I left it. This
MORNING--
(SEES BINDER)
Ooh, binders! Great!
Alice passes one to Emma.
EMMA (CONT'D)
You guys were so nice to ask me to
come with--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 5.
CONTINUED: (2)
ALICE
Emma, we're a team.
EMMA
I'd just be sitting around the
condo, trolling e-Harmony...
MEG
The fact that you have trouble
finding a date--
EMMA
I'm telling you, it's this town!
MEG
Gives me less than no hope.
EMMA
You know what we should do, Meg?
When we're over there? we should
all treat ourselves. Find a real
salon. Total spa treatment. And
I'm gonna get my hair done. Just
like this!
She holds up a European tabloid she's pulled from her purse,
stabbing a finger at a photograph: CORDELIA WINTHROP SCOTT
(30's), a blonde heiress deflecting paparazzi in couture.
NOTE: EMMA and CORDELIA are Played by the same actress.
ALICE
Look at us.
Meg and Emma turn to Alice, smiling.
ALICE (CONT'D)
(MARVELLING)
We're really going.
INT. ALICE'S HOME - BEDROOM - NIGHT
Alice's passport and a brochure emblazoned with a logo:
Esprit de Corps Tours, sit on top of her dresser, next to a
framed photo of Alice and Richard at the Wisconsin Dells.
Alice struggles to close the overstuffed suitcase on her bed,
tugging at the stubborn zipper.
ALICE
Come on... Please... please...
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 6.
CONTINUED:
The zipper tears away from the suitcase witha loud RIP! is
INT. MEG'S HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Meg pulls a well-worn stuffed dog from her open suitcase on
the couch, holding it up to her daughter, FINN (6) who wears
a spangled tutu and cowboy boots.
FINN
She wants to see Paris, too!
MEG
Finn, if Edith goes to Paris with
me, she can't go to Daddy's with
you.
Finn's brows come together as she considers this, then
reaches for the dog.
MEG (CONT'D)
That's what I thought.
(CALLING)
Seamus!
SEAMUS, Meg's ten year old son, pounds down the stairs
carrying an enormous backpack as Meg zips her bag closed.
MEG (CONT'D)
Toothbrush?
Seamus makes a face, drops his bag and heads back up the
stairs as the doorbell rings.
FINN
Daddy!
EXT. MEG'S HOUSE - NIGHT
GLENN (30s), in a police uniform, watches Meg squeeze her
children tightly.
MEG
(TO SEAMUS)
Remember. Gameboy goes to bed when
you do. Nine o'clock.
GLENN
Seam, why don't you take your
sister to the car while your mom
and I talk.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 7.
CONTINUED:
FINN
Can we get on the radio?
MEG GLENN
No. No.
Meg watches her kids run to the squad car parked at the curb,
just as KARYN (30's, also in uniform) emerges on the
passenger side to meet them.
GLENN
And no lights!
KARYN
Hey, Meg!
Meg lifts her chin in greeting, but that's it.
GLENN
I uh... I heard from my lawyer.
She said you'd signed your papers.
Meg watches her kids climb in the car with Karyn.
GLENN (CONT'D)
Guess that makes us official, then.
MEG
You and me?
(a nod to the car)
Or...
GLENN
You and me, Meg.
A beat as they look at one another, hold.
SEAMUS
Mom!
Seamus reappears, charging up the walk to pull Meg down to
his level, hugging her.
SEAMUS (CONT'D)
Have fun.
INT. EMMA'S CONDO - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Emma's packed suitcases stand neatly arranged by the door of
the sparsely furnished, undecorated room.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 S.
CONTINUED:
ANSWERING MACHINE
You have no messages.
Leaning on the lip of the kitchen's bar, Emma presses the
record button on her answering machine, then speaks with a
put-on, coolly sophisticated,'jet-setting accent.
EMMA
Hello. You've reached the home of
Emma Lindgard. I'm afraid I won't
be able to return your call right
away, as I'm currently traveling.
In Europe. But, please, do leave a
message.
TV ANNOUNCER
". .She was known as 'The People's
Princess'...
Emma turns at the counter to see Princes Diana touring an
African encampment with children on the television.
EMMA
Ooh!
She hangs up the phone and sits herself down at the coffee
table where a game of solitaire is laid next to a microwaved
Lean Cuisine dinner.
She turns up the volume with the remote and gathers the
cards, shuffling.
Eyes glued to Princess Diana on television, Emma suddenly
shoots her hands three feet wide, rifling the cards in
perfect vertical formation like a seasoned cardsharp.
EXT. ALICE'S HOUSE - NIGHT
Alice opens the door, kissing Richard who holds up a suitcase
in one hand, a bottle of champagne in the other.
RICHARD
Special delivery.
INT. ALICE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Alice zips the suitcase shut and raises her arms in victory
as Richard pours the Champagne into two glasses.
ALICE
That's it! I am good to go!
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 9.
CONTINUED:
Richard brings a glass to Alice, nuzzles her ear.
RICHARD
I'm proud of you, you know.
Alice takes her glass and presses Richard down onto the bed,
climbing on top of him.
ALICE
Like Christmas when I was a kid.
There's no way I'm going to be able
to sleep tonight--
RICHARD
Good for me.
They kiss.
ALICE
I mean, how long have I been
talking about this?
RICHARD
Mmm... You were reading Colette.
In the teacher's lounge. First
time we met. Long time.
Alice pauses as this lands somewhere deep inside.
RICHARD (CONT'D)
This is just the beginning.
ALICE
(BRIGHTENING)
It feels like it.
They clink glasses and Richard watches Alice tip her glass
back then stop mid-sip to peer down at the delicate diamond
ring sitting at the bottom of her glass.
ALICE (CONT'D)
(STUNNED)
Oh. Richard... It's so... It's
beautiful...
Richard takes her glass and fishes out the ring.
RICHARD
Let's try it on.
ALICE
But, we can't even celebrate--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 10.
CONTINUED: (2)
RICHARD
What are you talking about? We're
CELEBRATING--
ALICE
But, I'm leaving. I'm--. I'm
getting on a plane in the morning.
RICHARD
(LAUGHS)
Maybe I want to make sure you come
BACK--
(stops, sobers)
Wait. You're serious. Are you
serious? You're serious.
ALICE
Let's do this when I get back. In
a week.
RICHARD
Can you hear yourself?
ALICE
Honey, listen, it's just the
timing. I wasn't planning on this
TONIGHT--
RICHARD
Whoa. I planned tonight. Tonight
was my plan--
ALICE
And it's great. This is great.
You're great. But, Richard, I feel
like I just need to do this one
thing first. Then I can do the
next. Then I can do this.
(off his silence)
Can you understand? There's a
world I haven't even seen yet...
Alice, hopeful, searches Richard's inscrutable expression a
beat, then he turns away and gets up, ring in hand.
RICHARD
I thought we'd be seeing it
together.
(pockets the ring)
Have a great trip, Alice.
He heads for the door.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 11.
CONTINUED: (3)
ALICE
(STRICKEN)
Richard, come on. You're leaving?
RICHARD
(without looking back)
Maybe I'll see you in a week.
Alice listens to his footfalls and the slam of the front
door, then falls back on the bed, striking her head on the
open suitcase, wincing.
ALICE
(MISERABLE)
I'm sorry...
PILOT (PRE-LAP)
Ladies and Gentleman, we are about
to begin our descent into Charles
de Gaulle International Airport...
INT. AIRPLANE - IN FLIGHT - DAY
Meg sleeps in an aisle seat of the dim coach cabin where all
the window shades have been drawn down, Emma dozing beside
her, a game of cards laid out on her tray table.
Alice brings her seat to the upright position as instructed
and sits, hyper-alert, looking at her closed window shade.
A beat.
She reaches out and raises the shade a tentative crack,
flooding their row with light.
She glances furtively around the cabin, then inches the shade
higher, drawing in a sharp breath at what she sees.
She flings the shade up.
ALL OF PARIS is laid out below her; a magical nautilus-like
wheel with the Eiffel Tower as its central axle.
Her breath steams the window as she drinks it all in.
She turns, eyes full, to Meg who cranes across Emma to share
in the view and squeeze Alice's arm with a smile.
EMMA
Are we there?!
0
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 12.
INT. CHARLES DE GAULLE AIRPORT - DAY
A CUSTOMS AGENT stamps Alice's passport with a thump.
CUSTOMS AGENT
Bien venue.
Alice looks up from her imprinted passport, smiles hugely.
ALICE
Merci .
EXT. CHARLES DE GAULLE AIRPORT - DAY
Alice emerges with Meg and Emma, each struggling with their
luggage, onto the thronged arrivals deck.
EMMA
There it is! Esprit de Corps!
Alice looks to where Emma points, seeing a small sky-blue
flag at the end of a long staff held by MADAME VALERY (40s,
pinched) their harried tour guide in a suit of the same blue.
ALICE
Excuse me, are you Madame Valery?
0
Madame Valery glances up from her clipboard beside their bus.
ALICE (CONT'D)
Hi, my name is Alice Perry--
MADAME VALERY
(GESTURING)
Bags go under the bus.
ALICE
I'm traveling with my friends, Meg
Kelly and Emma Lindgard--
MADAME VALERY
(FLAT)
I speak English.
EMMA
Well, that's great!
ALICE
We're so excited!
Madame Valery eyes Alice unfolding a map from her binder.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 13.
CONTINUED:
ALICE (CONT'D)
Now, I was hoping you could tell me
which route the bus will be taking--
MADAME VALERY
(WEARILY PREDICTIVE)
You're not going to be a problem,
are you?
EXT. PARIS - DAY
The battered Esprits de Corps Tours bus careens through the
streets, listing wildly from side to side.
INT. TOUR BUS - DAY - MOVING
MADAME VALERY
(over bus's P.A.)
On your right...
Alice, squashed beside Meg on the over-crowded bus, whips her
head up from her guidebook.
MADAME VALERY (CONT'D)
Was the Arc de Triomphe.
ALICE
This is ridiculous...
EMMA
Hey, Alice! Meg!
Alice and Meg turn to Emma across the aisle, who hooks a
thumb at CARL and DEEDEE (late 60's, both stout) beside her.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Can you believe? They're from St.
Paul! On their honeymoon!
CARL
Waited a long time for this! But,
we finally made it!
EMMA
Alice, that's like you!
(back to couple)
We're here celebrating my friend
Meg's divorce!
0
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 14.
EXT. THE LOUVRE - DAY
The bus hurtles around the drive, screeching to a halt,
bouncing roughly on its shocks at the museum's entrance.
INT. LOUVRE - DAY
Alice, Meg and Emma race past gallery after gallery, trying
to keep Madame Valery's little blue flag in sight as it flies
over the crowd in the distance.
Alice whipsaws her head at everything they're missing, making
notes in her guidebook on the fly.
ALICE
Try to remember that! We'll double
back for the Chagalls!
INT. LOUVRE - DAY
Madame Valery leads the charge up the right wing of the Daru
staircase, past the statue of Winged Victory.
Alice stops Meg and Emma in front of the statue, while Carl
and Deedee try to catch their breath on the landing.
ALICE
(READING FAST)
.Also called Nike of Samothrace.
Greek goddess Nike, meaning
victory. Two-twenty to one-ninety
B. C. Okay, go!
They head for the right stairs just as Madam Valery
reappears, descending with her group on the left.
ALICE (CONT'D)
Oh.
Alice turns Meg and Emma around to come back down.
DEEDEE
Well, that saved us a climb.
INT. LOUVRE - DAY
Emma elbows her way out of a crush of raised cameras and
cellphones to Alice and Meg who strain at the rear of the
CROWD to view a painting, all but the top of its gold frame
obscured.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 15.
CONTINUED:
EMMA
(waving her camera)
I got it! I got it!
INT. BISTRO - NIGHT
Meg and Emma sit hunched over Emma's camera and its shaky,
digital image of the Mona Lisa, squeezed in with Alice and
the rest of their tour at too few tables.
EMMA
Alice, I'll e-mail it to you.
Meg looks up, catching Alice eyeing their surroundings.
MEG
(re: Mona Lisa)
At least she's smiling.
ALICE
(snaps to, smiling)
What? No. I'm--. I'm just a
little tired.
EMMA
(a happy idea)
Hey! I'll bet you have jet lag!
We'll probably all get it!
Meg raises a glass of wine.
MEG
To jet lag.
Emma and Alice raise their glasses to toast as WAITERS plunk
down identical plates of steak frites before them.
MEG (CONT'D)
To Alice. Best organizer. Best
guide. Best friend.
EMMA
To Alice!
They clink glasses and Alice is suddenly jostled, just as
she's about to sip, by Carl as he turns from the table behind
her, spilling her wine.
DEEDEE
Oh, Carl!
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 16.
CONTINUED:
CARL
I am so sorry!
ALICE
(mopping her front)
IT'S OKAY--
DEEDEE
He was just looking for the catsup-
CARL
If you're not using it.
As Emma passes the bottle of catsup, Meg offers Alice her
napkin, and waiters sweep their plates away, replacing them
with creme brulees.
ALICE
Oh! No. Wait. Pardon, Monsieur--
CARL
(RECEIVING CATSUP)
Merci!
He turns now, catsup in hand, to blink at the creme brulee
that has replaced his own and Deedee's steaks.
Alice places a hand on Madam Valery's arm as she passes.
ALICE
Pardon, Madame, but...
Madam Valery slowly raises her eyes from Alice's hand.
ALICE (CONT'D)
I'm sorry, but--
MEG
Are you apologizing?
ALICE
They've taken our dinners away--
Madame Valery taps her watch and then her clipboard.
MADAME VALERY
There were stragglers at the.
museum. Now, I am behind schedule.
0
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 17.
EXT. LE PETIT SOMMEIL HOTEL - NIGHT
Esprit de Corps tour members disembark from their bus in
front of a comically narrow and vertical Baroque hotel with
its name in feeble buzzing neon: Le Petit Sommeil.
ALICE (PRE-LAP)
Look! Look at this picture and
tell me what's different!
INT. LE PETIT SOMMEIL HOTEL - NIGHT
The women lower the travel brochure and its photograph of a
tidy well-appointed suite, to regard the actual one in which
they stand; dingy, impossibly small, crowded by an armoire
that nearly meets the low sloping ceiling, with two spindly
twin beds and a military-style cot.
EMMA
Toujour le suck-ez vous.
ALICE
I researched at least a million
TOURS--
MEG
Well. This is the one we could
afford.
A beat as they consider the room and their lot in life.
MEG (CONT'D)
It's only five nights--
EMMA
Five nights? Here?!
MEG
And, Alice, you said yourself,
we'll hardly ever be in our room.
(SELLING IT)
It'll be like camping. At Eagle
River. It'll be fun!
Emma opens what is essentially a closet with a toilet.
EMMA
Here's your outhouse, Meg. Go
nuts.
Alice joins Emma at the bathroom door.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 18.
CONTINUED:
EMMA (CONT'D)
Me? I'm going to try to hold it.
MEG
Okay, Emma. Let's just unpack--
she turns for the luggage, nearly falling over at the weight
of Emma's suitcase as she reaches to lift it.
MEG (CONT'D)
Holy--! Alice, help--
Alice climbs onto one of the beds to help Meg lift.
ALICE
Emma, what have you got in here?
EMMA
Just the stuff you put on my list--
(off her look)
And a couple options.
The bag slips from Meg's grasp, crashing onto the foot of the
bed which collapses, catapulting Alice onto the cot which
flips up over her, knocking Emma into the tiny bathroom.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Hey! Come on, guys!
INT. LE PETIT SOMMEIL HOTEL - NIGHT
Alice gazes out a window that opens onto a narrow alley and
the ugly backsides of buildings, as Meg and Emma sleep
fitfully behind her.
She looks down at the cellphone in her hands, scrolling
through her speed dial to stop at: 1. Richard.
She hesitates with her thumb over the "call" button.
She turns back to the miserable view, considering for a beat,
then folds her phone away as she blinks back tears.
EXT. PONT DES ARTS BRIDGE - DAY
Madame Valery leads a diminished flock, bobbing her staff
with its blue flag, in a forced march across the span of the
ornate pedestrian bridge toward the waiting tour bus.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 19.
CONTINUED:
MADAME VALERY
The Pont des Arts has it's name for
the vast number of art students
that come here to paint this famous
city view...
Meg and Emma, the worse for wear, trail Madame Valery at a
distance with Alice who now leads her own handful of tour
members, Carl and Deedee among them.
ALICE
It's called the Pont des Arts
because the Louvre was formally
known as the Palais des Arts...
Madame Valery stops ahead, turning back to take in Alice and
her cluster of appreciative followers.
MADAME VALERY
People! We must keep together!
EXT. NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL -- DAY
Alice's group circles an inscribed stone medallion with a
star-shaped brass inset on the pavement outside Notre Dame.
DEEDEE
"Point zero. Dez roots dee France."
ALICE
It's from right here that all the
highway miles in all of France are
measured. They also say that if
you stand on this exact spot, you
are be destined to return to France
in the future.
MEG
Oh, I'm in! Come on. Everyone!
Together, they all step forward, arms entwined, laughing.
EMMA
I want a picture! Of all of us!
Alice looks up as Emma breaks away, to see Madam Valery
leading her dwindling group from the great church.
Madame Valery sends her charges to the bus, then heads
straight for Alice as Emma tries to enlist a JAPANESE COUPLE
to take a group photo with her camera.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 20.
CONTINUED:
MADAME VALERY
My head count was short in the
cathedral.
ALICE
I'm sorry. I was explaining about
POINT ZERO--
Madame Valery sizes Alice up and taps her staff as the group
forms around them, joined by the Japanese couple.
MADAME VALERY
This flag? I do not carry it for
my pleasure.
ALICE
We were just on our way inside--
MADAME VALERY
Well, now you may head to the bus.
ALICE
But, we haven't been--
MADAME VALERY
Which is why you must follow my
flag!
ALICE
okay. We will. I promise. But,
these people haven't seen the
CATHEDRAL---
MADAME VALERY
There are many churches on the
tour.
ALICE
But, this is Notre Dame! They need
to see this--
MADAME VALERY
I assure you, they will see
everything they need to see--
ALICE
(LOSING IT)
Well, what's the point if it's all
a big fat blur? When nobody can
see anything properly? Let alone
experience it, or appreciate--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 21.
CONTINUED: (2)
MADAME VALERY
You seem quite the Paris expert,
for someone who has never been.
EMMA
Ill bet she knows more about it
than you!
The Japanese wife frames the action with Emma's camera.
ALICE
I might not have ever been here
before, but...
(EMOTIONAL)
I've waited my whole life for this
trip.
CARL
We've waited thirty years--
MEG
You tell her, Carl.
ALICE
You keep rushing us through, like
this is some kind of race--
(REALLY HURT)
And you won't even speak French
with me.
(SGUARES HERSELF)
Now, I think I've been very nice.
We're from Wisconsin. But, I'm
telling you, I am not getting on
that bus until my friends and I
have seen Notre Dame.
Meg and Emma exchange looks as Alice plants herself with
folded arms and steely resolve before Madame Valery.
MADAME VALERY
Perhaps, if Madame is not satisfied
with my tour she could conduct her
own.
EMMA
What'd she say?
Alice's eyes narrow in regarding Madame Valery and all fall
silent a beat; a crowd anticipating fireworks.
CLICK! The Japanese wife snaps a picture of the standoff,
the sound of the shutter triggering Alice to action.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 22.
CONTINUED: (3)
With lightning speed, she seizes Madame Valery's flag.
CROWD
Whoa!
Madame Valery, nonplussed, reaches out to reclaim her flag,
but Alice jerks it further away, while the Japanese woman
snaps picture after picture.
DEEDEE
Carl, we're getting on the bus!
Madame Valery lunges for the stick.
EXT. NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL - DAY
The bus pulls away, revealing the Japanese couple who return
Emma's camera with a bow, Meg, and Alice holding the flag.
EMMA
That was fantastic!
MEG
"A" plus!
Alice, cheeks flushed, watches Carl waving goodbye from the
0
bus's rear window.
MEG (CONT'D)
Alice, you okay?
Alice brings the staff down across her knee, snapping it in
two, casting the broken ends into the gutter as she raises
herself to her full height.
ALICE
Now, the real tour can begin!
MEG
Let's kick this town's ass!
Alice marches forward as a few drops of rain fall.
EMMA
I think it's starting to rain--
ALICE
Who cares? We're in Paris! What's
a little rain?
0
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 23.
EXT. LE MEURICE HOTEL - NIGHT
Water pours in sheets from the sky as Alice, Meg and Emma
splash down the Rue de Rivoli and duck beneath the shelter of
the hotel's canopy.
They shake water from their arms and hair, pluck at their
sopping clothes.
PHOTOGRAPHER 1
Cordelia!
They glance over at a few PAPARAZZI sharing the protection of
the overhang on the far side of the entrance, as a camera
flashes in taking Emma's picture.
Emma smiles, blinks, confused as another photographer
admonishes the first.
PHOTOGRAPHER 2
You're wasting your film. That's
not her.
EMMA
What're they saying?
Alice looks about in equal confusion, but stops short when
she sees the opulent restaurant behind the window's glass.
ALICE
Oh.
Meg and Emma turn to gape as well at the DINERS and elegant
tables inside as the rain hammers down.
ALICE (CONT'D)
That, mes aims, is Paris.
EMMA
You think they'd let me use the
bathroom?
INT. LE MEURICE HOTEL - LOBBY - NIGHT
Meg and Emma step into the lobby, a palatial world of marble,
gold and flowers, as Alice confers with the DOORMAN.
EMMA
Wow.
0
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 24.
CONTINUED:
ALICE
(TO DOORMAN)
Merci.
(joins Emma and Meg)
Okay, Emma, it's down the hall to
the left. Meg and I'll go and get
us a table--
EMMA
Meet you in there.
Emma heads for the ladies room, gaping at the lobby.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Wow...
MEG
Get us a table? Alice, we can't
afford to eat here--
ALICE
My treat.
ME G
You can't afford---
ALICE
(hooking Meg's arm)
We're going to do one thing right
in Paris. I don't care how much it
costs.
They turn for the dining room, passing the front desk where
CORDELIA WINTHROP SCOTT (dressed similarly to Emma, though at
ten times the cost) unleashes her ire on the CONCIERGE.
CORDELIA
And, just how do you propose I am
to travel tomorrow, then?
CONCIERGE
I am sorry, but, there is nothing--
A MANAGER enters from the back.
MANAGER
Mademoiselle Scott, I have checked
and there is no sign of a package--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 25.
CONTINUED: ( 2)
CORDELIA
Marvelous. I'd like to see someone
who speaks English, please. If
there is such a person in France.
The concierge and manager look to one another and back.
MANAGER
This is not English we are
speaking?
INT. LE MEURICE HOTEL -- LADIES ROOM - NIGHT
Emma swings through the door into the black marble bathroom,
grabbing a towel to swipe at her wet hair.
She stops abruptly, examines the towel.
EMMA
These are cloth!
She takes the towel into one of the stalls, closing the door
behind her just as Cordelia strides in, stops at the counter.
CORDELIA
(ACID DISGUST)
France.
Cordelia's cellphone RINGS! and she pulls it from her purse.
EMMA (O.S.)
Hello?
CORDELIA
(INTO PHONE)
You would not believe these people.
So rude!
She takes her phone into the stall next to Emma's and closes
the door just as Alice and Meg enter.
CORDELIA (O.S.) (CONT'D)
And they wonder why none of us do
Paris anymore! What I've been
through--. And, Daddy is being
PERFECTLY HIDEOUS--
Alice and Meg look at one another in the mirror, overhearing
Cordelia, as they pick up towels to dry off.
CORDELIA (O.S.) (CONT'D)
He's making me go to Monte Carlo!
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 26.
CONTINUED:
ALICE
Emma?
EMMA (0. S.)
Yeah. I'm here.
CORDELIA (O.S.)
I don't know. Some auction. One
of those foundations--. But, have
I heard from them? No. And they
were to take care of the plane--.
Well, I'm certainly not going to go
if, Wait, where are you?
(LISTENS)
Reykjavik? Would I need a coat?
A toilet flushes and Cordelia opens her stall door, heads for
the counter, oblivious to Alice and Meg who freeze with their
towels, blinking at her uncanny resemblance to Emma.
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
Do you know if there's an evening
flight--?
Alice and Meg turn to each other, then to Cordelia's
reflection in the glass, their mouths hanging open.
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
Ooh, I think I can just make it.
No. I won't even check out here.
It's better if everyone thinks I'm
being a good girl and taken the
trip down to--
Cordelia stops when her eyes snag on Alice and Meg.
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
Let me call you when I get to the
airport. It may take awhile...
She gives Alice and Meg a devastating look up and down.
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
It appears to be raining outside.
Quite hard.
She picks up her purse and exits without looking back just as
Emma opens her stall door and joins Alice and Meg, who gape
at her with towels in their hands.
EMMA
Did you see those are cloth?
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 27.
INT. LE MEURICE HOTEL - RESTAURANT - NIGHT
MEG
No, Emma, I mean, exactly like you.
EMMA
Well, she sounded awful. And kind
of mean.
Alice, Meg and Emma, punchy and a little drunk, enjoy wine
from enormous glasses as they finish their meals.
ALICE
(draining her glass)
She should be ashamed. Can you
imagine having a room here and then
not staying in it?
An ANXIOUS WAITER races in, refilling Alice's glass.
EMMA
(PERFECT MIMIC)
Darling, I was thinking of ordering
this entire menu, and then not
eating it!
The waiter retreats, joining FIVE others standing at
discreet, fearful attention, all careful not to look at Emma
whom they've clearly mistaken her for Cordelia.
MEG
We should just take it. Her room.
EMMA
And her trip to Monte Carlo!
(TO ALICE)
That's still France, right?
MEG
Alice, how fast can you get a
binder going on a trip like that?
ALICE
(LAUGHS)
Oh, I'd love to see that. Us in
Monte Carlo.
MEG
What's so funny about that? We got
in here.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 28.
CONTINUED:
EMMA
(MIMICKING)
Indeed. It is pitiful how low the
standards here have fallen.
Two waiters step in to clear plates, hearing all.
EMMA (CONT'D)
(MIMICKING)
Remind me to have Daddy buy this
hotel so that I can knock it down.
Alice and Meg laugh with Emma as the waiters head for the
kitchen in panic.
WAITER
(whispers to other)
She is a monster!
MEG
Emma, you could be her!
EMMA
(MIMICKING)
Darling, Meg. Always making me
laugh!
(DROPPING IT)
Who in their right mind would ever
believe that I was--
MANAGER
Pardon, Mademoiselle Scott?
The three look up at the manager in surprise.
ALICE
I'm so sorry. Were we being too
loud?
MANAGER
No, no, we are all very happy to
see Mademoiselle Scott smile...
A WINE STEWARD hustles up to the table with an ice bucket
stand and a bottle of Champagne.
MANAGER (CONT'D)
Please. In apology for our earlier
misunderstanding.
EMMA
Our misunder--?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 29.
CONTINUED: (2)
MANAGER
Your dinners as well. With our
compliments...
The three women exchange glances as the steward begins to
open the bottle and the manager bows, backing away.
EMMA
Excuse me, Monsieur?
MANAGER
Oui, Mademoiselle?
Emma smiles, broadly, batting her eyelashes as the steward
pops the Champagne cork.
EMMA
(PERFECT BRITISH)
I so hate to be a bother, but I
seem to have misplaced my room key.
INT. LE MEURICE HOTEL - SUITE - NIGHT
CLICK! The door swings open into the dark room, framing the
three drunk laughing women.
Alice fumbles for a switch, hitting the lights, and their
laughter cuts abruptly at the sumptuous interior of gleaming
marble, gilt and silk.
ME G
HOLY--
EMMA
Scheize.
Alice sees but one the thing: The Eiffel tower illuminated
on the other side of a bank of French doors.
ALICE
A view! There's a view.
Alice races to push back the window sheers, revealing a
staggering panorama of the city, the Seine, and the Eiffel
tower in the pouring rain.
The entire city of light is reflected in her eyes.
EMMA (O.S.)
Now this is more like it!
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 30.
CONTINUED:
MEG
There's whole other room in here!
INT. LE MEURICE HOTEL - SUITE -- BEDROOM -- NIGHT
Alice enters, steering around a tower of Louis Vuitton
luggage, as Meg pulls a fresh bottle of Champagne from a
bucket of ice.
ALICE
Wait. What are you guys doing?
Emma launches herself onto the enormous bed.
EMMA
This is the room we were supposed
to have!
ALICE
On what planet? Come on. We were
only going to take a look!
MEG
So, we're looking.
(pops the Champagne)
And we like what we see.
ALICE
Meg!
Meg takes the bottle and crawls up with Emma.
EMMA
Alice, take a break, would you? We
WALKED EIGHTY-POINT-FOUR-SIX-SEVEN-
two kilometers... A lot happened
today.
ALICE
BUT--
MEG
(pats the bed)
Alice, how many do chances do we
get? For something like this?
Alice considers, looks out the window at the streaming rain.
ALICE
Okay. But, just until it stops
raining. Then we go.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 31.
CONTINUED:
MEG
(makes room for Alice)
Agreed.
Alice climbs up and together, the three pass the bottle of
Champagne as they study the ceiling's ornate plasterwork.
MEG (CONT'D)
(LAUGHS)
I'm sorry, I just keeping thinking
of the look on that woman's face!
EMMA
I'm glad I got pictures!
ALICE
I did surprise her--
MEG
Surprised me!
EMMA
Really loved that flag, didn't she?
ALICE
Poor Carl and Deedee...
EMMA
Do you think that if you sleep in a
bed like this every night your
dreams are different?
Alice rolls to her side and the view of the Eiffel tower.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Like, are they bigger? You know?
Do you dream a more amazing life?
Meg kicks off her shoes, lets them drop.
MEG
Well... We'll never know.
Seen from the bed, the light atop the Eiffel tower breaks
through the dissipating clouds to swing a searching arc
through the night sky...
MATCH DISSOLVE
The Eiffel tower gleams gold and orange in the morning sun.
0
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 32.
INT. LE MEURICE HOTEL - BEDROOM - SUITE - MORNING
A telephone rings, stirring Alice. It rings again.
She reaches for it in her sleep as Emma sits up groggily
beside Meg curled around the empty Champagne bottle.
ALICE
(ANSWERING)
Hello?
EMMA
What time is it?
Alice's eyes fly open as she snaps awake.
ALICE
Oh, yes. Yes...
EMMA
(SHAKING MEG)
Meg, wake up. We're in trouble--
Meg pulls herself up, sees Alice on the phone.
MEG
Oh, shiii--
ALICE
We'll be right down. Merci.
She hangs up.
EMMA
We were only joking! We didn't
mean to--!
MEG
We'll tell them it was a mistake!
EMMA
Alice?
ALICE
Cordelia, your car is here.
INT. LE MEURICE HOTEL - LOBBY - DAY
Alice, Meg and Emma attempt to conceal themselves behind
Cordelia's tower of cases as it's wheeled from the elevator
by two PORTERS.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 33.
CONTINUED:
The women scurry for the exit past the desk manager.
MANAGER
Mademoiselle Scott!
ALICE
Just keep moving.
The three women increase their pace, but the manager catches
up to them with an express envelope.
MANAGER
Mademoiselle Scott, this came for
you this morning. The package you
were seeking?
Emma merely blinks at the offered envelope.
MEG
Take it. Just take it.
EMMA
(SNATCHING IT)
Thanks again!
They break for the door, but the manager follows.
MANAGER
I'm afraid there may still be some
PHOTOGRAPHERS OUTSIDE--
EMMA
What?
EXT. LE MEURICE HOTEL - DAY
As they emerge, the manager and doormen hustle Alice, Emma
and Meg towards a waiting car and driver, as paparazzi call
and shoot from across the boulevard.
ALICE
Thank you so much but I think we'll
WALK--
MANAGER
(LAUGHS)
But, you can not walk to the
airport.
ALICE
(STOPS FAST)
The airport?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 34.
CONTINUED:
A beat, as Emma and Meg look to Alice for direction and the
frenzied calls of the paparazzi increase.
INT. CAR - MOVING - DAY
ALICE
It's fine. It's fine. We'll just
have him drop us off...
Alice and Meg look out the back window at the manager who
waves them farewell, the doorman shooing photographers.
MEG
They really do think she's her...
RIP! Alice and Meg spin to Emma as she spills the envelope 's
contents.
EMMA
What? I want to know where we're
going.
ALICE
We're going back to our hotel--
Emma holds up an itinerary with a big mischievous grin.
EMMA
No. We're going to Monte Carlo!
ALICE
No. We're not.
MEG
(TAKING ITINERARY)
Let me see that--
EMMA
Alice, what's "prive?" Is that
like an airline?
ALICE
Emma, for crying out loud. Meg,
you want to help me out here?
MEG
Hold on... I'm reading...
EMMA
See? Meg wants to go. Don't you,
Meg?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 35.
CONTINUED:
ALICE
No, Meg, doesn't.
Meg looks up from the itinerary, shrugs.
MEG
Trip's paid for, whether that girl
takes it or not.
ALICE
Oh! And somehow that magically
makes taking it right?
EMMA
What's the worst that could happen?
ALICE
I can think of a lot of things--
MEG
You're in charge. You want to go
back to that hotel, okay by me.
A beat while Alice looks between Meg and Emma, trapped.
MEG (CONT'D)
Totally your call.
EMMA
(FULL-ON CORDELIA)
And, darling, we'll completely
understand if you feel we shouldn't
go.
EXT. AIRPORT - TARMAC - DAY
The car drives across the wide stretch of runway on a
trajectory for a waiting private jet.
INT. PRIVATE JET - IN FLIGHT - DAY
The women swivel around in their plush seats at the POP! of a
cork as a STEWARD opens a bottle of Champagne.
ALICE
Okay. We go. We take a look
around. We get on a train and come
right back...
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 36.
CONTINUED:
MEG
Anything goes wrong, we say it was
a language thing, that we didn't
UNDERSTAND--
EMMA
Now, I like that idea, because it's
true!
They fall silent as the steward appears with glasses of
Champagne, wait for him to retreat.
ALICE
Go, look, come right back. It's a
good plan.
Alice, Meg and Emma clink glasses.
MONTAGE:
EXT. AIRPORT - NICE - DAY
The steward helps the women from the plane, where another
UNIFORMED MAN waits on the tarmac to escort them further.
INT. NICE AIRPORT - DAY
Their escort opens a door ahead of them to a roof deck, wind
spilling in to the stairway they climb.
EXT. NICE AIRPORT - ROOF DECK - DAY
They emerge onto the deck, Emma squealing and grabbing Alice
when she sees their waiting helicopter.
INT./EXT. HELICOPTER - IN FLIGHT - DAY
Alice, Meg and Emma delight as the helicopter banks along the
coast, the Mediterranean glittering in blue and green below.
A craggy ridge falls away and all of MONTE CARLO unfolds in
step upon step of coral rooftops, cream and gold.
END MONTAGE.
EXT. HOTEL DE PARIS - DAY
Alice, Emma and Meg step from a limousine, blinking in the
bright sunlight to take in the square in front of the hotel,
its fountain and the adjacent casino.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 37.
CONTINUED:
ALICE
Okay! What do we want to do first?
Check out the palace, or the beach?
MEG EMMA
Beach! Palace?!
ALICE (CONT'D)
Let's find a map--
JEAN-PIERRE
Mademoiselle Scott!
They turn as JEAN-PIERRE MICHAND (late 30's), sophisticated
in jeans and a sportscoat but with a warm bohemian air, comes
down the steps, an oversized envelope tucked under his arm.
EMMA
Well, bon jour me.
JEAN-PIERRE
You made it! I was getting a
little frantic--. When I did not
hear from you--. So I sent your
TRAVEL--
(laughs at himself)
But, you are here.
(off her blank look)
Forgive me. Jean-Pierre. Michand.
With the foundation--
He pauses in shaking Emma's hand as his eyes land on Alice
with friendly curiosity, a charge.
JEAN-PIERRE (CONT'D)
Welcome--. I---. I didn't realize
you would be bringing--
EMMA
Oh, I'm sorry! This is Alice Perry
and Meg Kelly. Two of my dearest
friends. Visiting from America!
ALICE
(SHAKING HANDS)
Hello.
Jean-Pierre has trouble pulling his eyes from Alice as he
shakes Meg's hand.
JEAN-PIERRE
It is a pleasure to meet friends--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 38.
CONTINUED: (2)
EMMA
I'll say.
Emma sneakily indicates Jean-Pierre's empty ring finger to
Alice and Meg as he consults his wristwatch.
EMMA (CONT'D)
(WHISPERED ASIDE)
No ring.
JEAN-PIERRE
I'm terribly sorry, but, I am
already late for a meeting--
MEG
We won't keep you--
JEAN-PIERRE
I just wanted to make sure you
arrived safely and that I was here
to greet you.
(AN AFTERTHOUGHT)
Oh. And, of course, to deliver
your invitations for the week, and
the foundation's report--
EMMA
Invitations for the week--?
JEAN-PIERRE
Various events. Leading up to the
AUCTION--
(THE WATCH)
Again, I am so sorry, but, I am
reluctant to keep His Highness
waiting.
EMMA
His Highness?
JEAN-PIERRE
The Prince. But, we will see each
other at the casino for tonight's
game. Please, bring your friends--
ALICE
You are very generous, and we'd
love to, but, I'm afraid Cordelia
has other plans this evening--
Jean-Pierre turns, charmed by Alice's perfect French, and
alarmed by this news.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 39.
CONTINUED: (3)
JEAN-PIERRE
BUT--
ALICE
We're very sorry--
JEAN-PIERRE
(MOUNTING ANXIETY)
Perhaps we have misunderstood each
other. Mademoiselle Scott--. She
must be there for tonight's game.
The prince. His Highness has asked
to be seated across from her--
EMMA
What's he saying? Which prince?
Jean-Pierre looks imploringly between the three.
JEAN-PIERRE
Please. It is for the foundation.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
Within a glossy brochure: A collage of "snapshots" shows
happy African children grouped outside their new school;
raising their hands at their desks in a pristine classroom;
finding their country on a glossy globe.
ALICE
(ANGUISHED)
Oh, would you look at these kids?
MEG
No, I can't. I can't stand it.
Emma reads to Alice and Meg from the brochure in the seating
area of their luxurious suite, enjoying none of it, nor the
incredible balcony view of Monte Carlo's marina and bay.
EMMA
"With your help The Michand
Foundation is able to sow the seeds
of education, transforming lives,
families, and villages, one child
at a time..." She didn't say
anything about a school!
MEG
Schools, with an "s." More than
one.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 40
CONTINUED:
ALICE
(MISERABLE)
In Africa.
MEG
That horrible, irresponsible girl!
I've never stolen a thing in my
life, now I've taken a trip from
school children.
ALICE
In Africa.
Meg hangs her head.
EMMA
Reykjavik! That takes some nerve!
They're counting on her for a
charity auction and she doesn't
even show up!
ALICE
Only she did.
Emma reaches for a gigantic wrapped fruit basket.
EMMA
She did?
MEG
Do not touch that!
ALICE
You, Emma. If you're Cordelia.
They've seen you. You're here.
EMMA
Well, I can't go to that thing
tonight.
(A BEAT)
I don't have anything to wear.
The phone RINGS! and Emma snatches it up before Alice can.
EMMA (CONT'D)
(PERFECT BRITISH)
Hello?
Alice gestures for Emma not to say anything, to hang up.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 41.
CONTINUED: (2)
EMMA (CONT'D)
(INTO PHONE)
Oh yes, please. Send it up... Um.
Yes, all of it. Everything. Thank
you, ever so. Merci!
She hangs up and holds a beat before turning to Alice.
EMMA (CONT'D)
My luggage is here.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
Alice and Meg stand in front of the tower of Louis Vuitton
trunks and cases while Emma idly thumbs the combination lock
of a steel briefcase in her lap.
ALICE
Okay. But, just for tonight. And,
that's it.
CLICK! Alice and Meg look to Emma, holding the now open
briefcase, eyes wide.
EMMA
Lucky guess?
0
A necklace of diamonds and enormous yellow stones sparkles
like a constellation from within the case's velvet lining.
ALICE
(CLOSING IT)
No jewelry.
Emma nods.
ALICE (CONT'D)
Then it.all goes back.
MEG
Dry-cleaned.
INT. LES CASINO DES MONTE CARLO - NIGHT
The gaming hall's towering ornate doors are opened by TWO
DOORMEN for Alice, Emma and Meg to make their big entrance in
Cordelia's couture chiffon, silk and organza.
Heads held high, backs straight, they strike a remarkable
tableaux as they pause in unison at the top of the room's
raised landing to survey the swirl of roulette wheels and the
tony European jet set.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 42.
CONTINUED:
At first glance they look spectacular, but under closer
scrutiny one can read Meg's composed discomfort in wearing a
dress that is too tight, nearly spilling her breasts, and the
self-consciousness Alice endures in a dress made daringly
short by her height.
But, this is because we know them; to all other eyes they not
only belong here, they own the room.
They glance at one another, eyebrows up: "We're here!"
EMMA
Don't you feel like we've won
something already?
Jean-Pierre comes to greet them with PRINCE DOMENICO DA
SILVANO (30's, movie-star handsome), both in tuxedos,
offering a hand to escort Emma down the few steps.
JEAN-PIERRE
Mademoiselle Scott, you made it!
Emma withholds her natural smile, placing just the tips of
her fingers in Jean-Pierre's palm with exaggerated hauteur.
EMMA
Enchante.
Jean-Pierre assists Meg and Alice, Meg clutching the top of
her dress, Alice anxiously keeping the skirt of hers in place
with a hand as she steps down.
JEAN-PIERRE
And Mademoiselle Margaret Kelly and
Mademoiselle Alice Perry--
(FOR ALICE)
I am very glad you were able to
come this evening.
Alice nods, blushes and tries to cover.
JEAN-PIERRE (CONT'D)
May I present His Highness, Prince
Domenico Da Silvano?
Prince Da Silvano bows from the waist.
DOMENICO
MADEMOISELLE SCOTT--
EMMA
Please, call me "Cordelia."
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 43.
CONTINUED: (2)
DOMENICO
If you will call me "Domenico."
EMMA
I shall certainly try.
Domenico escorts Emma out onto the casino floor as Jean-
Pierre touches Alice's elbow.
JEAN-PIERRE
Shall we?
Alice and Meg allow Jean-Pierre to lead them, following Emma
as GAMBLERS break from their games to track these three
elegant women gliding smoothly through the room.
MEG
(aside to Alice)
I may as well be topless.
ALICE
Please. I'm mooning everyone
behind us.
INT. LES CASINO - PRIVATE GAME ROOM - NIGHT
A DEALER unseals a new deck of cards as Domenico pulls out a
chair for Emma at the room's enormous game table.
EMMA
Oh, but, I really wasn't planning
on playing this evening. I so much
prefer to watch--
Emma looks to Alice and Meg for help as Jean-Pierre leads
them to the far side of a low railing to view the game.
DOMENICO
(A WINK)
This I do not believe about you.
He turns to the eight other PLAYERS (of various ages and
genders, but all rich) clustered at the room's small bar.
DOMENICO (CONT'D)
Ladies and gentlemen? Shall we
begin?
The other players make obligatory introductions and take up
positions at the table as Jean-Pierre offers Alice and Meg
tall upholstered stools to sit.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 44.
CONTINUED:
Alice moves to sit, but then remembers her skirt, looks to
Meg who is unable to even raise a leg in her tight dress.
ALICE
(TO JEAN-PIERRE)
Easier to see if we stand.
Jean-Pierre hands them both a glass of Champagne.
ALICE (CONT'D)
And why aren't you playing?
JEAN-PIERRE
Ah. I play behind the scenes.
Like Robin Hood, I take from those
who have more than enough, for
those who have nothing but need.
(LAUGHS)
Also, I do not play because I have
no money of my own.
Alice smiles, charmed by his candor, but then stops.
ALICE
They're playing for money?
(turns to Meg, flat)
IS
They're playing for money.
Together they turn to see Emma happily arranging the cards
she is dealt in her hands.
DOMENICO
Cordelia, why don't you do us the
honor of setting this evening's
stakes?
Emma glances over to Alice and Meg who look back at her,
ashen, and turns to the players who smile expectantly.
EMMA
Oh. Um. Okay...
She takes her handbag into her lap, opens it, looks.
EMMA (CONT'D)
(A GUESS)
Alright. Why don't... Why don't
we start at ten?
A shocked player sputters into his drink.
Emma places a twenty Euro note on the table.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 45.
CONTINUED: (2)
EMMA (CONT'D)
That is if anyone is able to make
change.
A beat.
Jean-Pierre, Domenico and all the other players burst out
laughing and Emma smiles, laughing too, but shoots a
desperate look to Alice and Meg.
DOMENICO
Marvelous!
He signals an ATTENDANT over as Emma's shoulders relax.
DOMENICO (CONT'D)
Please bring Mademoiselle Scott a
rack of chips.
(TO EMMA)
Two hundred?
EMMA
(BIG GULP)
Um. Sure.
JEAN-PIERRE
You would not know it, but she is
very funny.
MEG
A riot.
Domenico casts a glossy chip into the pot.
DOMENICO
Mademoiselle Scott starts us at ten
thousand a hand.
Alice and Meg freeze, their champagne glasses sliding from
their hands, while Emma's eyes grow as large as all the
zeroes on Domenico's chip.
DOMENICO (CONT'D)
You must be feeling very lucky.
INT. LES CASINO - PRIVATE GAME ROOM - NIGHT
DEALER
Mademoiselle Scott? It is your
call.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 46.
CONTINUED:
Emma sits locked in a cool stare-down over the top of her
cards with Domenico across from her at the tensed table.
Meg downs a glass of Champagne in one gulp, snagging the back
of the WAITER's jacket, hauling him back for a refill.
The waiter turns to Alice, who pats at her face with a damp
napkin, struggling to breathe.
MEG
(takes bottle from waiter)
I should probably keep this.
DEALER
(PRODDING)
Mademoiselle?
Emma places her cards face down before her, appears to fold.
EMMA
Well...
She moves her hands to the stacks and stacks of chips beside
her, and pushes them to the center of the table.
EMMA (CONT'D)
0
I'm all in.
The other players gasp and Alice fails to suppress a whimper
as she grasps Meg's pouring hand, spilling Champagne, drawing
Jean-Pierre's attention.
JEAN-PIERRE
Are you alright?
ALICE
Great. I'm just--. Excuse me.
Alice slips around the railing and heads for Emma as two
players fold in near tears, leaving just Emma, Domenico and a
DOWAGER (60's) in the game.
ALICE (CONT'D)
I'm terribly sorry to interrupt.
But, Cordelia, you look a little
overheated... Why don't we--?
(WHISPERS LOW)
.Have you completely lost your mind?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 47.
CONTINUED: (2)
EMMA
(WHISPER BACK)
Hey. Don't distract me. I'm in
the middle of a hand--
ALICE
Emma! That isn't Monopoly money!
EMMA
Relax. I've got it under control--
ALICE
And this isn't the mathletes finals
in Kenosha!
EMMA
Jean-Pierre, would you be a dear
and get Alice some water?
(TO ALICE)
You're the one that got us into
this--!
ALICE
What?!
DOMENICO
I will see you, Cordelia.
Domenico pushes his own mountain of chips to the pot in the
center of the table and Alice buries her face in her hands
when the dowager folds her cards.
EMMA
(whisper to Alice)
Now, go sit down and try to be
cool, would you? Jeeze! Let me
handle this.
Alice moves back to her stool, tries to smile as she takes
the water Jean-Pierre offers.
MEG
What'd she say? What'd she say?
ALICE
(SICK)
We're going down, Meg. Going down
hard.
DEALER
Mademoiselle. Your Highness. Your
0 cards, please.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 48.
CONTINUED: (3)
Alice and Meg turn helplessly to the game table.
DOMENICO
Ladies first.
EMMA
After you. Please.
Domenico can hardly contain his gloating as he reveals his
three aces.
DOMENICO
I am very sorry, Cordelia.
A beat, then Emma shrugs.
EMMA
Well. It is just a game after all.
She turns her cards over and fans them on the table felt: A
royal flush in the suit of hearts, ace high.
EMMA (CONT'D)
I do hope there are no hard
feelings.
The other players cheer as Domenico's smile crashes.
Emma shrieks with delight, turning to Alice and Meg who grab
each other, barely keeping themselves from pitching over,
glasses spilling, as the other players applaud.
Emma rakes in the Everest of multi-colored chips with both
arms, laughing as she's congratulated.
DOWAGER
You must play often, Miss Scott.
EMMA
Oh, a little, online. But, this is
so much more fun!
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - LOBBY - NIGHT
Domenico and Jean-Pierre, each toting buckets of chips,
escort Alice, Emma and Meg to the elevator, all giddy.
DOMENICO
Not even a last drink in the bar?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 49.
CONTINUED:
EMMA
It's been such a splendid evening,
I am reluctant to press my luck any
further.
MEG
Yeah. Good call, Cordelia.
DING! The elevator arrives and the doors open as Domenico
leans in towards Emma.
DOMENICO
Then you must promise to dance with
me at my party tomorrow.
Emma evades Domenico by stepping onto the elevator.
EMMA
Oh, Delmonico--
DOMENICO
"Domenico."
EMMA
I would not miss it for the world.
Meg collects the buckets from Domenico and steps on.
MEG
Great meeting you, your Highness.
Good times. Really.
Jean-Pierre places his buckets in Alice's hands, a certain
frisson to the simple exchange.
JEAN-PIERRE
Tomorrow night?
EMMA
Wait!
Before Alice can respond to Jean-Pierre, Emma takes one of
the buckets from Alice and hands it back to him.
EMMA (CONT'D)
You must keep this one. For your
foundation.
JEAN-PIERRE
But, your family has already been
SO GENEROUS--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 50.
CONTINUED: (2)
ALICE
She really believes in education.
The doors start to close.
JEAN-PIERRE
Good night, then.
DOMENICO
And, welcome to Monte Carlo.
The doors close, leaving Jean-Pierre and Domenico to gaze
fondly where the three women had just been.
They both sigh and turn for the bar, when they hear shrieking
from the elevator as it rises above them.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - ELEVATOR - NIGHT
Alice, Meg and Emma jump up and down, screaming like girls at
a slumber party, chips flying everywhere.
MONTAGE:
EXT. BEAUTY SALON - DAY
Alice, Meg and Emma burst through the salon doors into the
street, their hair color richer, eyes brighter, a new
lightness to their step; vivid, brilliantly polished versions
of their essential selves.
Heads turn as they set out together.
INT. BOUTIQUE - DAY
The wings of a brass-framed three-way mirror spin and spread
in a swirling kaleidoscope of shifting reflections:
Alice, Meg and Emma work their way through an increasingly
spectacular and audacious series of combinations, dresses and
gowns, modeling for each other as they are tended to by
SHOPGIRLS and SEAMSTRESSES...
--Alice twirls in a navy dress with white polka dots.
--Meg slaps her own ass with a laugh, admiring herself from
the back in a pair of pencil thin sexy black jeans.
--Emma glows in a pale lavender strapless satin gown.
END MONTAGE:
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 51.
INT. BOUTIQUE - DAY
Alice, Meg and Emma watch as a number of their dresses are
boxed and a CASHIER writes them up.
SHOP GIRL
Would you like these put on your
account, Mademoiselle Scott?
ALICE
No. Thank you, we'll be paying
CASH--
EMMA
But, it would be darling if you
could have them sent round our
hotel.
MEG
Wait. You know what, on second
thought, I'm not getting these--
She pulls the pair of jeans from her pile of clothes.
EMMA
But, they looked amazing on you!
EXT. OPEN AIR MARKET - DAY
MEG
Where was I ever going to wear
them? Seriously?
EMMA
You wear them here! Anywhere!
Alice, you tell her--
Alice opens her mouth, but stops herself as the three wander
the crowded market stalls heaped with fountains of flowers in
every color, breads, fresh produce, trinkets and souvenirs.
ALICE
No. I'm not going to tell you what
to do.
MEG
Thank you. It's silly, anyway.
They're just jeans. I want to find
something for the kids--
EMMA
Oh, Meg! Look! For Finn!
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 52.
CONTINUED:
Emma leaps to one of the stalls, seizing a profusion of
plastic jeweled tiaras displayed alongside photographs of
Princess Grace. She places a tiara on her head, modeling.
EMMA (CONT'D)
How perfect is this?!
ALICE
Even better!
Alice holds up a pair of pink satin toe shoes, swinging them
from their ribbon laces.
INT. SHOE REPAIR SHOP - DAY
A SHOP OWNER (60's) slips a pair of freshly polished men's
shoes into a paper bag, placing them on the counter in front
of Richard, who pulls out his wallet.
RICHARD
(REMEMBERING)
Oh. And the suitcase.
The shop owner retrieves Alice's mended suitcase from a
nearby shelf, a tag on the zipper.
RICHARD (CONT'D)
How much do I owe you for that?
EXT. STRIP MALL - DAY
Richard exits the shoe repair carrying Alice'.s repaired
suitcase, headed for his car.
GLENN
Hey, Richard!
Richard glances up to see Glenn crossing the parking lot with
Seamus and Finn, pushing a cart piled high with groceries.
CUT TO:
Richard finishes helping Glenn and the kids transfer grocery
bags to the open trunk of Glenn's squad car.
GLENN (CONT'D)
(CLOSING TRUNK)
So, we'll see you at seven then--
RICHARD
And that's two with sausage, extra
sauce, no onions--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 53.
CONTINUED:
SEAMUS
Thin crust.
RICHARD
Got it.
Richard picks up Alice's suitcase.
FINN
Are you going to France, too?
RICHARD
No. I just--
Glenn turns, noticing the suitcase for the first time.
GLENN
Whoa! Hold on! You're going to
surprise Alice--?
FINN
I love surprises!
RICHARD
What? No, I---
GLENN
Oh, man, I win!
Richard blinks as Glenn claps him on the shoulder.
GLENN (CONT'D)
Meg and I've had this bet going:
She thought it would be on Alice's
next birthday, but I knew it was
going to be this trip to France!
RICHARD
Glenn, listen--
GLENN
Don't worry! I won't blow it for
you! I won't call anyone, ruin the
SURPRISE--
(PLAYFUL PUNCH)
You sly dog! You've probably
booked the best suite in Paris. Am
I right? Got the ring, the whole
show--. This is so you!
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 54.
CONTINUED: (2)
RICHARD
(confused, but flattered)
So...me?
GLENN
Sure! That's why Alice loves you.
You get how much this trip's meant
to her; now, you're just putting
the icing on the cake. The big
gesture, you know? Not too
dominating: Supportive. Loving!
(shakes his head)
You're the man, Richard. Big
props.
Glenn pulls Richard into a big happy bear hug.
GLENN (CONT'D)
Congratulations.
RICHARD
Glenn. She said, no.
EXT. OPEN AIR MARKET - DAY
BERNARD ROCHAND (late 30's), an appealing Frenchman in a worn
sportscoat, pauses in collecting leeks when he spots Meg on
the other side of the open stall.
He watches as she surveys the rich array of fresh produce,
lifting a tomato to her nose, inhaling with a private smile.
Meg bites into the tomato, spurting juice onto her cheek and
down her front.
She looks up as she attempts to wipe the juice away, stopping
when she catches Bernard smiling with amusement.
Meg rolls her eyes with self-deprecation and moves on along
the line of stalls.
Bernard pays for his purchase and follows, finding Meg at
another stall where a FRENCHWOMAN tries to communicate how to
prepare the fish they both admire.
Meg nods, not entirely understanding, but getting enough of
it to gesture responses.
The woman grabs some newspaper, wrapping the fish, and
thrusts it towards Meg with a smile.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 55.
CONTINUED:
MEG
Oh, no. No. I'm sorry. I'd like
to. But...
The woman is confused, vaguely insulted.
MEG (CONT'D)
I don't have a kitchen. No place
to cook.
BERNARD
She is only a visitor. Without a
kitchen. But, it is a beautiful
fish. Maybe next time.
Meg turns to find Bernard beside her.
BERNARD (CONT'D)
I have explained.
Meg hesitates uncertainly before this friendly stranger.
MEG
Well, thank you...
She smiles at the woman and starts to walk away, only to find
Bernard falling into step with her.
BERNARD
You are American.
Meg glances at Bernard and away, uncomfortable, but curious,
drawn by his warmth and the familiar greetings he exchanges
with various vendors as they walk.
MEG
From Wisconsin. Yes.
Bernard reaches a handkerchief from his jacket for Meg.
BERNARD
You cook in Wisconsin?
Meg uses the handkerchief to blot the remaining tomato juice.
MEG
I try. But... We don't have even
half of this at home.
She points to a tray of miniature lobsters.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 56.
CONTINUED: (2)
MEG (CONT'D)
Like those. I've only seen them in
magazines.
BERNARD
Ah, langoustines. Many ways to
PREPARE THESE--
MEG
I'd go for a saute, being a
Midwestern gal.
BERNARD
Court-bouillon.
MEG
(IMPRESSED)
Poaching.
BERNARD
With sea water. Amazing.
MEG
So, you cook.
Bernard dips his head modestly.
BERNARD
As you say, "I try."
(offers his hand)
Bernard. Rochand.
Meg shakes his hand and returns the handkerchief.
MEG
Meg. Kelly. Thank you again for
YOUR HELP--
BERNARD
And, how long are you in Monte
Carlo, Meg?
Meg's brow furrows slightly and she turns to head back.
MEG
I need to find my--. . My friends
are around here somewhere...
BERNARD
I will help you find them. We can
WALK TOGETHER--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 57.
CONTINUED: (3)
MEG
(LAUGHS)
Look. It was nice to meet you--
BERNARD
"Bernard."
MEG
Yeah. But, I'm gonna walk myself.
Thanks, though.
She slips into the moving crowd, leaving Bernard to watch as
she meets Alice and Emma further up the street.
He holds a beat, then turns when called to by a vendor.
INT. RICHARD'S APARTMENT - DAY
Glenn paces as Richard holds the phone at his desk, the
Esprit de Corps Tours website on his computer's screen.
RICHARD
It's been two days and it didn't
occur to you to call anyone?
EXT. PALAIS DE CHAILLOT - DAY
Madame Valery, cellphone to her ear, leads'the few remaining
members of her flock down the wide steps, across the Seine
from the Eiffel tower.
MADAME VALERY
She refused to follow my
instructions. She sabotaged my
tour. Ruined it for everyone!
RICHARD
Wait. Alice did? Alice Perry?
MADAME VALERY
She took my flag!
CUTTING BETWEEN:
RICHARD
But, if their luggage is still
there, then they're missing--
GLENN
Missing? What the--?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 58.
CONTINUED:
RICHARD
How do I get in touch with the
police?
GLENN
Hey, I'm the police!
RICHARD
Are you the police in France?
MADAME VALERY
The police? Monsieur. Nothing
could keep her from seeing Paris
her way. Believe me. She was very
determined.
RICHARD
BUT--
GLENN
What's she saying?
MADAME VALERY
You are the husband, yes?
Richard hesitates, looks to Glenn.
RICHARD
(FIRMLY)
Yes. I am the husband.
Glenn nods emphatically.
INT. VILLA DA SILVANO - NIGHT
A cascade of yellow and gold balloons washes over Alice as
she dances with Meg and Emma to a Euro-trance-pop beat at the
center of the crowded dance floor.
Emma screams with delight in a new dress and plastic tiara,
batting balloons as Domenico who spins her away.
Alice watches with heightened vigilance as Emma dances with
her prince and blows a kiss to Alice and Meg.
MEG
Alice, she's fine...
(MARVELING)
Look where we are! Can you even
remember the last time we danced
like this? It's gotta be-Martha
Lapland's wedding--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 59.
CONTINUED:
ALICE
Actually, sometimes Richard and I
go to Madison's on Saturdays--
MEG
(stops dancing, laughs)
The gay bar?
ALICE
(shrugs, matter of fact)
They've got the best music.
MEG
I am so butting in on that.
Alice laughs and spins, crashing directly into Jean-Pierre.
JEAN-PIERRE
And I was looking for you!
From the edge of the dance floor, NIKOLAI LUDOVIC (late 30s),
squat, bald, completely nondescript but for his white tie and
tails, watches Emma ardently.
He stops a waiter, taking his tray of Champagne flutes.
Emma spins to find Nikolai at her elbow, grinning, holding up
this offering, and she takes him for a waiter.
EMMA
Ooh! Thank you! I'm so thirsty!
Nikolai remains planted, holding his tray with a smile,
watching with bright eyes as Emma drinks.
She lowers her glass and her full attention snags on Nikolai,
really registering his presence now as she searches his warm,
gentle eyes.
EMMA (CONT'D)
It's a wonderful party, isn't it?
Nikolai nods and offers her another glass of Champagne.
Alice, dancing with Jean-Pierre, subtly repositions herself
in order to keep an eye on Emma.
JEAN-PIERRE
Cordelia, she can take care of
herself, yes?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 60.
CONTINUED: (2)
ALICE
What? Oh, yeah, of course...
Meg dances by herself, having a great time, taking in the
room, the music and the people, when a handsome MAN begins to
match her moves, insinuates himself.
She smiles but shakes her head as she moves away, turning her
back to evade him.
Another gorgeous MAN sidles up to Meg, joining her solo
dance, wiggling his eyebrows invitingly.
MEG
No, thanks.
She moves off only to be met by GIORGIO (40's, sexy, Euro-
suave) who smoothly steps in.
MEG (CONT'D)
NO--
GIORGIO
(GRINNING WIDE)
Yes! Giorgio!
Emma slips away from dancing with Domenico, moving to Nikolai
who remains with his tray at the ready,.brightening at her
approach, lifting a glass.
EMMA
Don't you need to, like, circulate?
NIKOLAI
Ya znal, chto naydu tebya.
Emma blushes as though showered in compliments.
EMMA
Really?
PENELOPE
(FLAT)
Cordelia Winthrop Scott.
Emma turns, still smiling, to find PENELOPE PENROSE (late
20s, British), frail and bird-like, but attempting to hold a
warrior's stance with her shoulders thrown back.
EMMA
Yes?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 61.
CONTINUED: (3)
PENELOPE
Do you not know who I am?
Emma's smile falters as she glances furtively about.
EMMA
Um. 'Course I do... Hi.
PENELOPE
Penelope. Penelope Penrose.
Penelope's chin quivers as she reads Emma's blank look.
PENELOPE (CONT'D)
I spent a year in hospital--
EMMA
Hospital? What happened?!
PENELOPE
You did! You happened!
Alice swivels around at the raised voices, spots Penelope
facing Emma.
ALICE
Excuse me!
She dodges away from Jean-Pierre, hooking Meg's arm in
passing, yanking her away from Giorgio as she heads for Emma.
PENELOPE
Don't pretend you don't remember!
Third year at Le Rosey! You threw
my luggage in the pool. Set fire
to my mattress. You cut off all my
HAIR--
MEG
What? That's awful!
PENELOPE
While I was sleeping
EMMA
She did that to you?
ALICE
(CORRECTING)
Cordelia! How could you?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 62.
CONTINUED: (4)
PENELOPE
That was just the first night.
ALICE
Say you're sorry, Cordelia.
(WHISPERS)
And let's get out of here!
EMMA
Alice, no--. Wait a minute--
PENELOPE
(to Alice and Meg)
she turned all my friends against
me... They had to send me away...
To live with the nuns--
Emma grabs Penelope by the shoulders.
EMMA
Now, you listen to me, Penelope
Penrose. You have no idea how long
I've waited for this moment.
Penelope flinches, preparing for a beating.
EMMA (CONT'D)
But, I had no way of finding you
after you left us, and...Oh, Penny.
Don't you see? Don't you know that
I was just jealous?
Alice and Meg exchange looks.
PENELOPE
(SMALL)
Jealous?
EMMA
You were so smart. So clever and
BEAUTIFUL--
PENELOPE
I was ugly--
EMMA
No, Penny. I was ugly. I was a
monster.
PENELOPE
Penny Pignose. That's what you
called me--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 63.
CONTINUED: (5)
EMMA
Because, I knew I could never
compete! Not with anyone as
special as you.
PENELOPE
You thought I was special?
Emma looks at Penelope, nods emphatically.
EMMA
You want to know what I've waited
for all these years, Penelope
Penrose?
Penelope shakes her head almost imperceptibly.
EMMA (CONT'D)
To do this.
Emma opens her arms wide and pulls Penelope into a hug.
She looks at Alice and Meg over Penelope's shoulder, and then
closes her eyes with genuine emotion for a beat, pulling back
to smile into Penelope's grateful, tear-streaked face.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Now... Friends?
INT. BISTRO - LATE NIGHT
DOMENICO
(raising a glass)
To friends! old and new!
Emma seizes Penelope's hand from across the table, placing it
in Domenico's as she drunkenly sings the old Girl Scout song.
EMMA
"Make new friends and keep the old,
one is silver and the other's
gold!"
Alice and Jean-Pierre lean toward each other intimately'
across the packed, lively table of PARTY-GOERS.
JEAN-PIERRE
But, no one really lives here.
Monte Carlo. It's like Hong Kong.
People merely come and go. People
like me. Well, and then, people
like yourself.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 64.
CONTINUED:
Alice nods to a WAITER who arrives to refill her Champagne
glass, pouring as Jean-Pierre speaks.
ALICE
People like me?
JEAN-PIERRE
People with money. This is why I
come. I help assuage their guilt
when I remind them that there are
children in this world who do not
have clean water to drink, while
they drink Champagne.
ALICE
And that works?
Jean-Pierre blinks, then bursts out laughing.
JEAN-PIERRE
I take myself far too seriously.
ALICE
No. I'm sorry, I didn't mean--.
I've seen the pictures of the
schools. The work you do is
ADMIRABLE--
JEAN-PIERRE
And I'm afraid I talk about it
because I myself am not that
interesting...
(a hand on her arm)
I'd rather know about you.
ALICE
(TRAPPED)
Oh. Well. You know. I...do what
I can, here and there. A little
volunteer work...
She turns to her Champagne, rolling her eyes at herself.
ALICE (CONT'D)
Oh, brother.
Meg sits further down the length of all the tables laid end
to end, beside Giorgio, who has pulled his chair close,
draping an arm casually across the back of hers.
MEG
Okay, wait. You're a man, right?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 65.
CONTINUED: (2)
Giorgio laughs.
MEG (CONT'D)
Yeah, I know: I'm funny. But, see
if you can answer something for me.
Ten years you're married, to the
girl you dated in high school. I'm
talking the girl you lost your
virginity to, the one who gave you
two great kids that you're just
crazy about. Then one morning,
what? You wake up, and out of the
blue, it's like, "Oh, hey, honey, I
think I'm in love with this other
woman..."
(PAUSES)
His patrol partner.
A beat as Giorgio shakes his head sadly.
MEG (CONT'D)
I thought I was his partner.
Giorgio takes Meg hand, more in comfort than come on.
GIORGIO
You heart feels betrayed.
MEG
(telling a secret)
I feel like I failed.
GIORGIO
I tell you this: A man...he will
always love the mother of his
children.
Meg blinks, taking this in.
GIORGIO (CONT'D)
Now you must kiss someone else.
MEG
(LAUGHS)
Oh, I see--
GIORGIO
To break the spell. You must!
Then you will be free.
A plate of beautifully arranged langoustine is placed on the
table in front of Meg.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 66.
CONTINUED: (3)
MEG
Oh, I'm sorry, 'I didn't order--
She looks up to find Bernard standing in chef's whites.
BERNARD
(smiles, nods)
Madame Kelly.
He heads toward for the kitchen before she can say anything.
Emma pours sloppy glasses of Champagne for her companions as
though playing a game of tag, spilling wine.
EMMA
And you're my friend...and you're
my friend. . .and you're my--
She turns with the bottle to find Nikolai who has
materialized beside her on the long banquette.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Oh, hey! You were at the party!
Do you work here, too?
Nikolai cheerfully shakes his head, holds up her purse.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Oh! Did I forget that? Wow, what
a lifesaver! Thanks!
NIKOLAI
Ti takaya vaskhititel'naya.
Emma sets the bottle down to concentrate on Nikolai.
EMMA
You're not from here, are you?
(OVER-ENUNCIATING)
I'm Emm--. My name is Cordelia.
NIKOLAI
(points to himself)
Nikolai.
EXT. STREET - PRE-DAWN
Alice and Jean-Pierre walk along, side by side, their hands
nearly touching, among the rest of the restaurant party.
Alice looks up, taking in the bowl of pre-dawn sky, and
glances over at Jean-Pierre who watches her.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 67.
CONTINUED:
ALICE
The stars are still out.
Ahead, Emma breaks away from Penelope and Domenico, leaving
the two to walk on together as she comes back toward Alice.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Where's Meg?
Alice looks around and sees Giorgio walking alone among the
strolling party guests.
ALICE
I thought she was right behind us--
INT. BISTRO KITCHEN - PRE-DAWN
Bernard takes a tray of dishes from his FATHER (70's,
striking resemblance) who enters from the dining room.
BERNARD
Papa, sit down. Rest.
INT. BISTRO - PRE-DAWN
Bernard enters with the tray, stopping when he sees Meg
examining a menu by the front door of the empty bistro.
MEG
(SLY SMILE)
You do cook.
Bernard shrugs, smiling as he comes forward.
BERNARD
You enjoyed your meal?
MEG
Adding the fresh orange; nice.
Bernards nods, accepting the compliment.
MEG (CONT'D)
But, a little fennel would've been
"wow."
BERNARD
Next time, you cook.
EMMA
Meg! What are you doing? Come on!
We're going to watch--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 68.
CONTINUED:
Emma and Alice stop short just outside in the street, pausing
as they sense they've interrupted.
ALICE
We were--. We're going to watch
the sunrise.
Meg hesitates, turning between her friends and Bernard.
BERNARD
(SMILES)
You should not miss it.
EXT. STREET - PRE-DAWN
Alice and Emma walk with Meg down the narrow street at the
end of which the party guests stroll and Jean-Pierre waits
for Alice, with Penelope, Domenico and Nikolai.
ALICE
The guy from the market?
EMMA
He is so cute! And a cook--!
MEG
Chef .
EMMA
And you're single now!
Meg slows to a stop, stands a beat.
MEG
(QUIETLY)
I'm single. I'm single, now.
ALICE
You know, Julia Child didn't take
her first cooking class until she
was thirty seven.
MEG
(SMILES)
I told you that.
PENELOPE
It's coming, Cordelia! The sun!
0
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 69.
is EXT. PLACE DE CASINO -- DAWN
Alice, Emma and Meg, arms linked, round the corner into the
square with the rest of the party guests, just as the very
edge of the sun crests the horizon of the open sea.
Alice turns to Meg and Emma, sharing this moment so far
beyond anything they could have dreamed.
MEG
We'd be getting up now.
ALICE
If we were home.
EMMA
But, we're not.
PHOTOGRAPHER
Cordelia!
The spell is broken by a TRIO OF PAPARAZZI who spring to life
by the hotel's entrance.
PAPARAZZI
Cordelia! Cordelia!
EMMA
Oh, good! I want a picture! Of
the three of us! All of us!
The paparazzi swarm from the steps towards Emma.
EMMA (CONT'D)
By the fountain!
She runs for the sprays of water, pulling Alice and Meg, and
the paparazzi meet them, flashing away.
Leaning against the fountain's balustrade, Emma gestures for
everyone to join them.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Penelope! Come on. I want one
with everybody!
Penelope, Domenico and Jean-Pierre join with other members of
the group and Emma lines them all up.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Okay! Ready? One, two--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 70.
CONTINUED:
She spots Nikolai observing at a short distance.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Wait! Wait! Niki!
He shakes his head, bashful, but Emma gestures him over,
swinging her arms wildly.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Nikolai, you, too! I need all my
friends--Whoops!
Her feet zip out from beneath her and she sails backwards
over the balustrade, reaching for Alice and Meg, pulling them
with her as the camera's flash.
SPLASH!
EXT. CHARLES DE GAULLE AIRPORT - DAY
A 747 airliner touches down on the tarmac.
INT. CHARLES DE GAULLE AIRPORT - BAGGAGE CLAIM - DAY
Alice's repaired suitcase tumbles off the conveyer belt.
RICHARD
Excuse me. Pardon me.
Richard skirts around a man with a newspaper to retrieve the
bag and heads for customs.
As Richard exits, the man folds his newspaper to its bold
headline: SCOTT MAKES A SPLASH!, and a huge photograph of
Emma, Alice and Meg laughing together in the fountain.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
Emma enters from the bedroom in a swimsuit and wrap, to find
Alice hanging up the desk phone.
EMMA
Alice, have you seen my sandals?
ALICE
Okay, there's a two o'clock and a
four o'clock train to--
EMMA
Train? Where are you going?
Alice looks up and takes in Emma's costume.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 71.
CONTINUED:
ALICE
Where are you going?
EMMA
I'm going to the beach. With
Penelope.
Meg enters through the suite's door carrying a bakery bag.
MEG
Breakfast is here! There's this
fantastic bakery around the corner.
I've already had three brioche.
And I saw the greatest little shop
for the kids, but they weren't open
YET--
(off Alice's look)
What's going on?
(TO EMMA)
What happened?
EMMA
I don't know. She's talking about
train schedules...
Emma trails off as she and Meg and Alice look between each
other in confusion, each processing for a beat.
ALICE
We need to start packing, right?
If we're going back to Paris--
EMMA
Back to Paris?
ALICE
That was the plan--
MEG
What plan?
EMMA
We're not staying for the auction?
ALICE
We were just going to come down,
take a look around and--
MEG
That was before we knew it was for
a charity. Remember the kids?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 72.
CONTINUED: (2)
EMMA
In Africa.
ALICE
The ones we stole a trip from? The
kids who are paying for this room?
MEG
Alice, what's with you? We'll pay
for the room--
EMMA
We're rich!
ALICE
So, I'm the only one worried about
the fact that we're lying to
everyone we've met?
MEG
Lying? To who? Jean-Pierre?
EMMA
You're the one who said we had to
go to the casino--
ALICE
And now I'm apparently the only
who's worried we might get caught.
MEG
She's in Iceland.
ALICE
One of her friends is bound to find
out, or her family--
MEG
What friends?
EMMA
I've got friends.
The doorbell rings and they turn their heads in unison, then
look to each other with sudden alarm.
A beat.
Emma goes to the door, finding Penelope, also dressed for the
beach, who holds up the newspaper with it's fountain photo.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 73.
CONTINUED: (3)
PENELOPE
Have you seen?
EMMA
Oh, my god! We look great!
(ushers Penelope in)
Alice, look!
Alice takes the paper, Meg reading over her shoulder.
MEG
(LAUGHS)
We have got to get that in the
yearbook.
PENELOPE
Yearbook?
ALICE
Penelope, could you excuse us?
PENELOPE
Oh. of course. Where--?
Alice shows Penelope to the bedroom, closes the door and
spins to face Emma and Meg.
ALICE
(HUSHED PANIC)
This is what I'm talking about!
This is why we have to go--
EMMA
Doesn't it mean we have to stay?
MEG
Oh, this is so typical. Just
because it's not on your map,
'cause you didn't plan it--. We
all agree to take this adventure
and then you won't jump.
ALICE
I won't--? Jump?
Meg drops into a chair, mumbling an aside to herself.
MEG
Now I know how Richard must feel.
Alice comes to a full stop and gapes at Meg, stung.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 74.
CONTINUED: ( 4)
ALICE
Richard...?
MEG
(FEEBLE APOLOGY)
I'm just saying...
ALICE
Well, you're sure one to talk.
Meg's eyes flick up to Alice.
ALICE (CONT'D)
You can't even bring yourself to
buy a pair of jeans anymore--
EMMA
Okay, you know what? Let's just
pack. It's not fun anymore.
Alice, if you think we should go,
then that's what we're gonna do.
You're in charge.
Meg scoffs, an exasperated exhale.
ALICE
No way. Not anymore I'm not. You
want to go to the beach? Go to the
beach. You want to go the market?
Go! "Liberte, egalite,
fraternite!"
EMMA
What does that mean?
Alice snatches up her purse and heads for the door.
ALICE
It means everyone should do exactly
what they want.
MEG
Exactly.
EMMA
Alice, wait! Where are you--?
You're not going back to Paris--?
ALICE
(RIGHTEOUS)
Me? No. I'm going to have an
adventure.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 75.
CONTINUED: (5)
She exits, slamming the door behind her.
A beat.
MEG
(off Emma's look)
Don't look at me like that.
The door opens, and Alice re-enters, striding across the room
for the desk, not looking at either Emma or Meg.
ALICE
I just--. My guide book.
She picks up her book and crosses back to the door.
EXT. LE PETIT SOMMEIL HOTEL - DAY
Richard steps from the hotel with a MANAGER (50's) who
pantomimes that he recognizes Alice from the snapshot Richard
shows him, but has no idea where she could be.
Richard pulls out a map to point at a random spot and the
manager gestures up the street, down the street, shrugging:
She could be anywhere.
EXT. GRIMALDI PALACE - DAY
Alice, amid a crowd of tourists, only half watches the
changing of the guards outside the palace gates.
She snaps herself out of her distraction with a shake of her
head and turns to the marked pages in her guide book.
CARL
Alice?
She glances up to find Carl and Deedee from the tour.
DEEDEE
We thought that was you!
ALICE
Oh! Carl! Deedee!
Alice is surprisingly overcome and impulsively throws her
arms around both of them.
DEEDEE
Well, we're sure surprised to see
you, too!
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 76.
CONTINUED:
ALICE
But, what are you doing here? How
did you--?
CARL
Well, when we saw how you stood up
to that Madame Valery--! If Alice
can do that, we thought, what the
heck's holdin' us back? This is
our honeymoon!
DEEDEE
I was scared, but then, well, you
only live once! And as long as
we've got each other--
CARL
We've got everything, right?
Alice blinks, unaccountably teary eyed.
ALICE
Yes. That's right.
CARL
Sometimes you've just gotta follow
your heart. Be bold: Let the rest
take care of itself.
EXT. PARIS - ARC DE TRIOMPHE - DAY
Richard stands with his map beneath the arch where all roads
come together in a spinning roundabout of bleating car horns.
He looks down the length of the Champs Elysees, overwhelmed.
The Japanese couple from Notre Dame approach Richard to ask
directions and he shrugs helplessly, pressing the map on
them, and steps out as a crosswalk signal turns to green.
EXT. MONTE CARLO - STREET - DAY
Alice embraces Deedee and Carl beside a waiting taxi.
CARL
Tell the girls we would have loved
to see them, but--
DEEDEE
Italy calls! And Greece! We're
even thinking of hitting Turkey!
Imagine! We'll send you postcards.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 77.
CONTINUED:
0 Alice puts her friends in the taxi, closing the door as
Deedee scrolls the window down.
ALICE
Enjoy every second of it!
DEEDEE
You, too, honey!
CARL
Bon voyage!
The car pulls away, Carl and Deedee turning in their seats to
wave at Alice through the rear window.
Alice waves until they are out of sight and slowly lowers her
hand, standing alone in the street.
A beat.
Alice sighs and pulls out her guide book, unfolding a map as
she looks up to gather her bearings.
She takes in the quiet street, the view of the ocean, then
looks back at the map in her hands.
She straightens up, a new look of purpose on her face, and
crosses the street to toss her guide book and map in the
trash can on the corner, striking out unaided down a narrow
twisting street hung with vines and flowers.
EXT. MONTE CARLO - STREET - EVENING
Alice rounds the corner of one street into the tight
intersection of two narrow alleys in the fading twilight.
She looks around,.cheeks flushed, hair pasted to her
forehead, lost in a maze of dilapidated walled courtyards and
apartment blocks; home to the city's service workers.
She hesitates, then forges ahead down one street until she
sees that it dead ends, and she doubles back.
EXT. MONTE CARLO - STREET - EVENING
Alice suppresses panic as she walks briskly up a steep alley,
high in the hills, trailed now by a small stray DOG.
She stops, turns to the dog that also stops then sits.
ALICE
is Go. Go home.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 78.
CONTINUED:
She turns and starts forward, the dog following.
Alice stops again, turns, and the dog sits.
ALICE (CONT'D)
Don't follow me. I have no idea
where I'm going...
The dog cocks its head in comment.
ALICE (CONT'D)
Okay?
Alice turns to climb the street's incline.
The dog follows.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - LATE AFTERNOON
Penelope, dressed for the evening, gets up from reclining on
the bed to join Emma who models a gown before a mirror.
The two regard Emma's reflection, cocking their heads in an
identical manner at precisely the same time.
Penelope draws a necklace in gesture, indicating Emma's bare
collar bone.
Emma turns, lit by an idea, and pulls the'steel briefcase
from its hiding place beneath the bed.
INT. BISTRO - EVENING
Meg opens the door from the street, stepping inside, wearing
the sexy jeans she hadn't bought the day before.
Bernards's father makes his way to meet her with menus.
EMILE
Madame?
MEG
Just one.
He leads her to a table along the wall and holds out a chair.
Seated, Meg follows him with her eyes to the kitchen where
Bernard works furiously at the stove, tossing the contents of
a sauce pan with an expert flick of his wrist.
Bernard glances out to the dining room, seeming to sense Meg
before knowing he'll find her there.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 79.
CONTINUED:
0 Meg matches the broad smile that sweeps Bernard's face.
EXT. CAFE - PARIS - EVENING
A pair of strolling LOVERS draw Richard's attention as he
massages his stockinged foot at a sidewalk table.
He watches them stop, kiss, then continue on their way.
A WAITER returns with Richard's change on a plate and Richard
fits his shoe back on his foot, gathers his things to stand.
He stops when he notices the front page of a newspaper folded
on a chair at the next table.
He quickly unfolds it to the photograph of Alice and Meg with
Emma in the fountain, scans down to the caption: Cordelia
Scott and friends in Monte Carlo. Hotel de Paris, etc...
EXT. MONTE CARLO - STREET - EVENING
Alice feeds the little dog a scrap of meat as she eats a
kabob, seated on the curb by a street vendor's food cart
around which ALGERIAN MEN lounge in plastic lawn chairs.
The dog looks at her avidly, hungry for more.
Alice holds her kabob stick out for the dog to eat,
surrendering her dinner with pleasure.
As Alice sips from a bottle of beer, a soccer ball bounces
off the curb and rolls to a stop beside her.
She looks up as a ragtag BAND OF KIDS call from the dusty lot
across the street, asking for their ball.
A beat as Alice regards the ball.
INT./EXT. YACHT PARTY - EVENING
Emma wears Cordelia's elaborate necklace, standing alone,
within a throng of PARTY GOERS, all conversing in French.
she nods and smiles absently, though she's clearly lost, out
of her element, when Giorgio approaches.
GIORGIO
Where is Meg? I do not see her.
EMMA
No. I... I don't think she's
0 coming. I'm sorry.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 80.
CONTINUED:
Emma drifts away to the ship's rail where she turns to
survey the party, smiling wistfully at Penelope and Domenico
locked in intimate conversation.
PHOTOGRAPHER
Cordelia! There she is! Cordelia!
The trio of paparazzi putter alongside in a small boat,
peppering the yacht with their camera flashes.
Emma looks out at them, without her usual animation.
PHOTOGRAPHER (CONT'D)
Smile, Cordelia! Please, smile!
Emma waves, but can't seem to manage that smile.
NIKOLAI
Ty v poryadke?
Emma turns to find Nikolai standing beside her in white tie,
a piece of cake extended in one hand, a fork in the other.
Emma's eyes light up as if a switch has been thrown and the
flash of a camera records her huge, dazzling smile.
EMMA
Niki.
He bows slightly, offering the cake.
EMMA (CONT'D)
You work here too? You never get a
night off...
He smiles, shaking his head, hands her the cake.
NIKOLAI
Ya sa-meey shas-li-veey che-lo-vek
na zem-le, pa-ta-mu chto u me-nya
yest' tee.
Emma hangs on every incomprehensible word.
NIKOLAI (CONT'D)
Vy menya panimayete?
EMMA
Oh, Niki... I'm so glad you found
me.
0
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 81.
INT. BISTRO - KITCHEN - NIGHT
MEG
Seamus. He's ten. Built a website
for his fourth grade class. Now
he's got actual clients. And
that's Finn, the prima ballerina.
She'll be six in June--
Emile examines photographs of Seamus and Charlotte from Meg's
wallet while she refills their glasses at the kitchen table
and Bernard works at the stove.
EMILE
Elle est coquin, oui?
MEG
Oh, she's no chicken. She's not
scared of anything--
BERNARD
(LAUGHS)
Not a chicken. He says, she looks
like a rascal.
MEG
No idea where she gets that...
Meg lifts her glass with a sly smile as Bernard brings plates
of food to the table.
MEG (CONT'D)
But, that's a nice word for it.
EXT. MONTE CARLO - DIRT LOT - NIGHT
ALICE
I'm open! I'm open!
Alice sails down the makeshift soccer field as one of the
kids passes the ball to her, chased by the others.
She dodges and kicks the ball through the goal to score.
Her "team" jumps and cheers, as do a collection of spectators
who have gathered to watch this tall red headed woman in a
summer dress racing around the dusty lot with a band of kids.
ALICE (CONT'D)
Go! Go!
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 82.
CONTINUED:
Alice races back down the field with her team, the little dog
running along and barking from the sidelines.
EXT. BISTRO - ALLEY -- NIGHT
BERNARD
But, she is perfectly safe.
MEG
Yeah. No. No way.
Bernard straddles a beat up moped, motor running, as Meg
shakes her head emphatically.
BERNARD
I can not take you, if you will not
get on.
MEG
What do you want me to tell you?
I'm not getting on that thing.
Bernard fixes her with a level look, which Meg mimics.
BERNARD
(AMIABLY)
C'est bon. Au revoir.
He swings a leg over the moped, revs the engine.
MEG
Hold on.
EXT. MOPED - NIGHT - MOVING
Meg hangs on to Bernard as they zip along the beachfront
drive and turns her face to the wind with a smile.
She surrenders to the ride, the sheer fun of it, laughing.
MEG
How do you say "faster?"
INT. BLUE RIBBON RESTAURANT - NIGHT
Bernard and Meg, flush from their ride, enter the kitchen
through a back door, to be hailed by a half-dozen CHEFS
crowded around a table littered with dishes.
IS
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 83.
CONTINUED:
BERNARD
The best chefs of Monte Carlo.
They come here to drink and show
off. The end of every night.
HENRI (60's, a bear in chef's whites) lumbers towards them.
HENRI
No! No! No! We are only cooks
allowed here!
BERNARD
Ah, but, this is why we've come! I
have finally found someone who can
teach you how to cook!
(INTRODUCING)
This is Meg, from America.
(TO MEG)
And this is Henri, the worst
egotist, my mentor.
The two men embrace, merrily kissing each other on both
cheeks, then Henri pulls Meg under his arm.
HENRI
(turns to the table)
A chef from America! Come to flip
hamburgers!
INT./EXT. CAR - NIGHT - MOVING
Jean-Pierre drives an open silver sports car full of PARTY
GOERS down the twisting streets, when he sees the commotion
and crowd around the dirt lot.
Then he spots Alice running-around.
EXT. MONTE CARLO - DIRT LOT - NIGHT
Alice sticks like glue to a kid with the ball, maneuvers in,
steals the ball, and doubles back in the opposite direction,
racing up the field as the crowd laughs and claps.
She passes the ball to kid who drives it to the goal, scores.
Alice looks up from the game at the tapping of a car horn to
see Jean-Pierre honking in celebration as he leans against
the car with his GUESTS, enjoying the game.
Alice stops to wave, and takes the ball full in the face.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 84.
CONTINUED:
Jean-Pierre's smile winks out as Alice drops and he races
from the car as worried kids and spectators form a circle
around Alice's prone body.
The little dog licks Alice's face and she opens her eyes.
She leaps up as Jean-Pierre crosses the lot.
ALICE
I'm up! I'm up! Let's go!
She sets off down the field with the kids.
EXT. YACHT - PRE-DAWN
Empty and half-filled glasses, bottles litter every surface
along with plates, ashtrays, crumpled napkins.
Emma sits on the lower landing deck, legs in the water, shoes
in her hand, looking out at the lights.
Nikolai moves his legs in the gentle current beside her,
tuxedo trousers rolled, while he concentrates on working a
napkin into intricate folds.
Emma turns to look back at the silent boat.
EMMA
It doesn't seem fair. Leaving you
to clean up all alone.
(THINKS)
I'll help. But, you've really got
to talk to your boss.
Nikolai laughs, shaking his head.
NIKOLAI
Ya ryadom.
EMMA
It must get kind of lonely
sometimes... Not being understood.
(PAUSES)
I know how that can feel.
Nikolai holds up the napkin he's transformed into a crown
adorned with flowers and the wire cages from Champagne corks.
Emma looks at him, her face soft and vulnerable, open, as
Nikolai places the makeshift crown on her head with care.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 85.
CONTINUED:
NIKOLAI
(HEAVILY ACCENTED)
My princess.
They look at one another for a beat, then simultaneously turn
to the sea and the frail sky, awaiting the sun.
EMMA
(SOFTLY)
You get me.
Nikolai looks down at his hand on the edge of the deck next
to Emma's, and turns it palm up in invitation.
Emma places her hand in his.
EMMA (CONT'D)
You get me.
INT. BLUE RIBBON - PRE-DAWN
Meg tries to follow the discussions and familiar teasing of
the chefs as they pass plates, goading her to taste.
She looks over at Bernard, who smiles as he holds his hands
up at the scene, his boisterous friends, the food; as though
to say "this is good, enjoy."
Meg relaxes her shoulders and gives in to the spirit of the
table, spears a bite of food and lifts her glass to Bernard.
CUT TO:
Meg and another chef, locked in a chopping duel, plow though
onions at a blinding pace, their knives flashing, creating an
escalating staccato on their cutting boards.
Meg sweeps her onion from her board to a pan, and slams her
knife down in victory as all the chefs erupt with applause.
Henri seizes Meg's hand, raising her arm in the air, and
presents her with a bottle of wine.
Meg turns to Bernard, beaming, thrilled, utterly happy, as
the other chefs clap her on the back, shake her hand.
INT./EXT. HOTEL DE PARIS - ROOF - PRE-DAWN
Jean-Pierre opens the door at the top of the fire stairs,
revealing the open sky, turning back to take Alice's hand.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 86.
CONTINUED:
ALICE (V.O.)
What's the most amazing place
you've ever been?
JEAN-PIERRE (V.0.)
Hard to say. There are many.
Alice steps out onto the hotel's roof with Jean-Pierre's
jacket over her shoulders.
ALICE (V.O.)
Well, Africa, then. How often do
you get to go?
He leads her around the maze of skylights to the front of the
building that faces the sea and the lightening sky.
JEAN-PIERRE (V.0.)
Not enough. Mostly I am on planes.
To the places where sunlight and
parties make people generous.
EXT. HOTEL DE PARIS - ROOF - MOMENTS LATER
Alice's smile flickers with a vague disappointment as she
leans against the hotel's crown beside Jean-Pierre.
ALICE
That seems a shame...
JEAN-PIERRE
But, I can think of one place I
have never been. It is in my
imagination only, so it is very
special.
He places an arm around Alice as they take in the view.
JEAN-PIERRE (CONT'D)
It is just a small town, in a vast,
open space. Maybe in the middle of
America. There are people there
like yourself, who are kind. And
children who have everything they
need.
Alice turns to Jean-Pierre as he takes a strand of her hair
in his fingers, and they hold a beat, looking at one another.
JEAN-PIERRE (CONT'D)
In my mind, it is bordered by
fields that are green.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 87.
CONTINUED:
0 Alice breaks the moment by turning her head to search the far
horizon just as the rising sun crests the open sea.
EXT. YACHT - DAWN
Nikolai shrugs himself out of his formal shirt to stand
before Emma in nothing but starfish printed boxer shorts.
He lifts his hands: This is me. Here I am.
Emma hesitates, then lets her gown fall around her, bare
except for her panties, the necklace, and her napkin crown.
Nikolai pushes himself off the side of the boat at a run,
hiking up his legs into a cannonball. SPLASH!
He surfaces and turns back to the boat just as Emma dives in
with a SPLASH!
She swims to Nikolai, pushing him under in a child's game,
and he pops up, spitting water like a fountain.
They laughs and Emma loops her arms around him.
A beat as they sober.
Emma pulls Nikolai close to her, and they kiss.
On the landing deck, Emma's gown shimmers in the morning sun
with Nikolai's crown and Cordelia's yellow gem and diamond
necklace nestled among its satin folds.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - HALLWAY - DAWN
Alice, still wearing Jean-Pierre's jacket, walks down the
hall with Jean-Pierre close beside her, neither speaking.
She turns to him when they reach the door of her suite.
A long beat stretches, full of every possibility.
JEAN-PIERRE
Come with me.
ALICE
What?
JEAN-PIERRE
To Dubai. I leave the day after--.
What is today? Friday? I leave
tomorrow. You could come too. You
wouldn't need to bring anything.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 88.
CONTINUED:
ALICE
But--. Jean-Pierre...
(a near confession)
You don't know me.
JEAN-PIERRE
This is why I ask. I would like to
know you, Alice. Very much.
Alice regards him a beat, then slowly pulls his jacket from
her shoulders.
ALICE
Before this, I'd never even been to
France.
Jean-Pierre blinks and Alice laughs, as much at herself.
ALICE (CONT'D)
It's true. Just kept putting it
off. Always managed to find an
excuse. But, really, it was that I
was afraid. That it couldn't ever
live up to the France I'd imagined.
And if it did... Then I'd never be
able to go home.
JEAN-PIERRE
And, now?
Alice gently places Jean-Pierre's jacket in his hands and
steps near to kiss him on the lips.
ALICE
But, thank you.
She turns and opens the door with her key as Jean-Pierre
smiles ruefully.
ALICE (CONT'D)
For everything.
Alice steps into her room and closes the door.
EXT. NICE AIRPORT - DAY
Richard exits the plane, walking down a mobile stairway onto
the tarmac, carrying Alice's repaired suitcase.
0
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 89.
INT. NICE AIRPORT - DAY
Richard stands at the information counter, conferring with an
ATTENDANT in his broken French.
RICHARD
Excusez-moi...I'm looking for the
train. To Monte Carlo.
Behind him, Cordelia strides through a set of doors to stop
directly at Richard's back as she searches the terminal and
hisses into her cellphone.
CORDELIA
Yes, Daddy, I'm here. No, I do not
see a driver. Yes, I am looking!
The attendant points over Richard's shoulder to an exit.
Richard begins to turn in Cordelia's direction, but the
attendant corrects him, pointing the other way.
RICHARD
Merci.
He picks up Alice's suitcase and heads off just as a
UNIFORMED DRIVER approaches Cordelia.
DRIVER
Mademoiselle Scott?
CORDELIA
Where have you been?
The driver leads her away, neither she nor Richard having
taken note of the nearby newsstand and its display of today's
front page: Emma on the yacht wearing Cordelia's necklace.
EXT. HOTEL DE PARIS - DAY
Meg zooms the moped around the fountain a last loop, Bernard
on the back, before jerking to a stop in front of the hotel.
Bernard steadies the moped as Meg climbs off.
ME G
Well, this is me. Back to the old
Grimaldi suite.
BERNARD
(WITH REGRET)
I have to open the restaurant.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 90.
CONTINUED:
A beat as they face each other, neither knowing how to end
the evening, how to say goodbye.
MEG
Thank your father for me?
BERNARD
I will, Meg.
MEG
Thank you.
Meg hugs him briefly, awkwardly, then turns for the steps.
BERNARD
Goodbye, Meg.
Meg stops, holds a beat with her back to Bernard.
Then she turns and marches to him with purpose, seizing his
face in both her hands and kisses him passionately.
She releases Bernard, who staggers against the moped,
catching himself just before going over, as she turns again
for the steps, an enormous smile on her face.
IS
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
Alice sits on the edge of the bed with the hotel phone, idly
looking out at the sparkling bay and anchored boats.
ALICE
(leaving a message)
Well, I wish you were there. Or
here. I wish you were here,
Richard. I do... Because I keep
thinking, no matter what I see, I'm
only seeing half of it. Because
we're not seeing it together...
Meg lets herself in the front door and heads for the bedroom,
stopping when she overhears Alice on the phone.
ALICE (CONT'D)
I'm sorry, Richard. I hope you'll
be there when I get home...
Because that's all I want.
Alice hangs up the phone, so lost in thought she doesn't see
Meg standing at the door.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 91.
CONTINUED:
MEG
(SOFTLY)
Hey.
Alice looks up, smiles to see her friend.
ALICE
Oh. Hey--
(taking Meg in)
Hey! You bought the jeans! They
look great--!
MEG
(tearful, comic)
Alice, I am so sorry! For what I
said. About you. And Richard. I
didn't mean any of it! I love you.
I don't know how I would've gotten
through the past six months if it
weren't for you--
ALICE
No. It's okay. You were right--
(bursts into tears)
Oh, Meg! I made a huge mistake!
MEG
Wha--?
ALICE
Richard asked me to marry him--
MEG
Wait. What? When?
ALICE
I told him we should wait a week!
MEG
No. You didn't--
ALICE
I did! He surprised me!
MEG
Alice...
ALICE
I'd imagined him asking me a
million times, but then when he
did, I just panicked. suddenly all
I could think about was the trip.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 92.
CONTINUED: (2)
ALICE (CONT'D)
That I hadn't already been to
France. It was like this wave, all
the years, and chances I'd had but
didn't take, they just crashed down
on me: And I hadn't seen anything
but the end of Lake Avenue. The
only clear thought in my head was,
"this guy is so wonderful, how can
he marry half a person?"
MEG
But, Alice. You were going. We
were on our way.
ALICE
I thought he was asking me to make
a choice. But, he wasn't. He
wasn't doing that at all. It was
me. Because I couldn't believe he
loved me just for who I was.
France or no.
(PAUSES)
All I had to do was say, "yes."
MEG
Honey, Richard knows you... It
might feel like it's over. But,
it's not.
ALICE
(CRYING)
I really ruined it this time...
The suite's doorbell rings and they both look up.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - MOMENTS LATER
Alice opens the door for Emma who stands up from retrieving
the morning paper just outside the door.
EMMA
(hands off paper)
Thanks. I couldn't find--. I
musta left my key someplace...
(on a cloud)
But, what does it matter, really?
When I already have everything I'll
ever need...
Alice exchanges a look with Meg as Emma swans across the
suite to tear open on the fruit basket, pluck out an apple,
and drape herself across a chaise.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 93.
CONTINUED:
is EMMA (CONT'D)
Moooorning, Meg...
(back on track)
For the first time in my life,
everything makes perfect sense, you
know?
MEG
I'm trying to follow you--
EMMA
I'm in love! I am! Oh, you guys,
I'm in love with Niki...
Nikolai... Nikolai. And, I don't
care if he is just a busboy. Or
waiter. Whatever he is...
Alice unfolds the paper, taking in the image of Emma wearing
Cordelia's necklace.
EMMA (CONT'D)
It's funny if you think about it.
I could have had a prince. A real
one. But, I wanted my Niki--
(a big bite of apple)
Hey. Why are you guys crying?
This is good news!
ALICE
I thought we said no jewelry--
EMMA
No--? What jewelry?
MEG
What?
Alice holds up the newspaper.
EMMA
Ooh, that's a good one!
ALICE
The necklace, Emma!
Emma's face clouds as she distractedly reaches a hand to her
bare collar bone, then flicks her eyes up to Alice.
ALICE (CONT'D)
Emma, where's the necklace--?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 94.
CONTINUED: (2)
Emma leaps up and races to the window, throwing the doors 0
wide as Alice and Meg dash after her onto the balcony.
EMMA
The yacht! There! I left it on--!
MEG
Are you kidding me?!
PHOTOGRAPHERS (O.S.)
Cordelia! Cordelia!
They look directly down to the base of the hotel where the
trio of paparazzi call as Cordelia emerges from a limousine.
Alice and Meg look at each other, stricken.
EMMA
Oh, hey. What's she doing here?
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - LOBBY - DAY
Cordelia strides across the lobby, passing WORKERS who set up
for the auction, and arrives at the front desk.
A busy DESK CLERK glances up, brightening happily.
DESK CLERK
Mademoiselle Scott!
Cordelia looks at him with typical, withering disdain.
CORDELIA
The driver was late.
The clerk's smile falters, fades.
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
Hello? I'm checking in.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
Alice, Emma and Meg race around, frantically grabbing
clothes, stuffing them into shopping bags.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - HALLWAY - DAY
DING! The elevator doors open and Cordelia steps off with a
BELLHOP toting her bags, as her cell phone rings.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 95.
CONTINUED:
CORDELIA
(ANSWERING)
Hello?!
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
The three women scramble though the suite, collecting,
straightening, smoothing in a blind panic.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - HALLWAY - DAY
The bellhop stops outside the door with Cordelia.
CORDELIA
Beijing? Oh, I want to come! Will
you wait for me?
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS SUITE - DAY
CLICK! Alice, Meg and Emma freeze in their tracks at the
very center of the suite, their heads swinging toward the
door when they hear the key inserted from the other side.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - HALLWAY - DAY
The bellhop opens the door, holding it wide for Cordelia who
marches in to the room...
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
.where everything, impossibly, appears to be in place.
CORDELIA
I can be there in, say, a day--
(TO BELLHOP)
I was meant to have a suite.
(INTO PHONE)
Of course, they've screwed this up
as well--. Who else is going?
The bellhop opens the bedroom doors, revealing the tower of
Cordelia's luggage, crowned by the reassembled fruit basket.
Cordelia, unimpressed, indicates the bags the bellhop holds.
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
Put those with the others--
(INTO PHONE)
Wait, wait!
She spins away for the French doors, twisting their handles,
and throwing them wide.
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 96.
EXT. HOTEL DE PARIS - DAY
Cordelia steps to the railing, completely unaware of Alice,
precariously perched atop the adjacent balcony's railing,
back pressed against the face of the hotel.
CORDELIA
(INTO PHONE)
Stavros is supposed to be here,
isn't he? I don't see his boat!
Alice carefully turns to Meg and Emma who look back her with
desperate faces from the balcony on the far side of Cordelia,
where they balance with their shopping bags.
BELLBOY (O.S.)
Mademoiselle?
CORDELIA
(INTO PHONE)
Majorca?! Hold on.
She does a quick turn, marches inside.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
The bellboy stands expectantly by the front door.
CORDELIA
Yes?
He nods, not quite with his hand out, but waiting.
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
If you're done, you may go.
The bellboy turns but hesitates in catching a quick glimpse
of Alice, fleet as a gazelle, as she passes the open doors on
the balcony behind Cordelia.
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
I said, you can go.
He bows a retreat, backing out the door.
EXT. HOTEL DE PARIS - DAY
Alice climbs across to the next balcony where Meg tries the
handles of another set of French doors.
MEG
They're locked!
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 97.
CONTINUED:
They each look about for a route of escape.
Emma looks down, on the heads of the unsuspecting paparazzi
while Alice scrutinizes the facade above.
Alice looks at Meg.
MEG (CONT'D)
No. Forget it.
Alice laces her fingers together, turning to Emma.
ALICE
Emma, help.
MEG
ALICE---
ALICE
You're first. There's a door on
THE ROOF--
EMMA
The roof?!
EXT. HOTEL DE PARIS - ROOF - DAY
Shopping bags swing up over the edge of the roof, landing in
profusion, followed by three sets of gripping hands.
Alice, Meg and Emma haul each other over the hotel's crown,
the view of the ocean and the yachts in the bay behind them.
EXT. MOTOR BOAT - AT SEA - DAY
A BOAT DRIVER in uniform passes a captain's hat to Nikolai,
who places it on his head as they speed towards the marina.
EXT. DINGHY - AT SEA - DAY
Meg turns to get a gauge on the distant yacht as she and
Alice labor with the oars of a fisherman's dinghy.
MEG
Why'd they have to park so far out,
anyway?!
ALICE
One point five million Euros, Emma!
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 98.
CONTINUED:
EMMA
I said I was sorry! You think I
would have worn it if I knew how
much it cost?
Busy fighting, none of them notice as Nikolai's boat passes
fifty feet off their side.
MEG
What am I going to tell my kids?!
How am I'm going to explain to
Glenn that we're in a French jail?
ALICE
For the auction, Emma!
MEG
My kids'll be in college when we
get out! They won't even know me.
EMMA
None of us knew that, Alice--
MEG
Trespassing. Burglary. Oh, god.
Grand larceny, by trick and
DECEPTION--
ALICE
For the children--!
EMMA
In Africa. I know!
MEG
I'm standing in a stolen boat!
EMMA
Well, sit down then!
Nikolai's wake hits the dinghy, rocking them hard.
EXT. MONTE CARLO TRAIN STATION - TRACKS - DAY
Richard steps off the train, with today's paper wedged under
the arm that carries Alice's suitcase.
EXT. YACHT - DAY
The dinghy strikes the side of the yacht and the three women
scramble to their feet, grasping the side of the boat.
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 99.
EXT. YACHT - DAY
EMMA
It was right here!
MEG
Oh, I can't believe this...
Meg doubles over, hands on her knees as Emma stands over the
empty spot on the landing.
ALICE
Are you even sure you took it off?
EMMA
Definite "yes."
ALICE
Well... Were you this close to the
edge? I mean, it could've fallen--
MEG
Do not even say it!
EMMA
0 You know, I'm getting a little
tired of this. Just because I
SOMETIMES FORGET--
ALICE
Emma, we're not talking about a
pair of sunglasses!
MEG
We don't have time for this! Let's
just split up! Alice you go fore,
Emma take the aft, and I'll check
the cabin.
Emma glares at Alice with steely, narrowed eyes.
EMMA
Alright. Fine.
(PAUSES)
Which way is aft?
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - LOBBY - DAY
The clerk looks up as Nikolai arrives at the front desk.
CLERK
Yes?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 100.
CONTINUED:
NIKOLAI
Ya khotel by perepisyvat'sya s
vami.
CLERK
Excusez moi, monsieur?
INT. YACHT - DAY
Alice, Meg and Emma reconvene in the cabin's salon, each
coming from a different direction.
MEG
Nice boat. No necklace.
ALICE
Where is he, anyway?
EMMA
He just works here. I don't--
(an idea forming)
You don't think he could have taken
it, do you?
MEG
Who knows?! I mean, is there
anyone who understands a word he
says?!
EMMA
(STRICKEN)
Oh, this could all be my fault! He
probably thought he needed it, to
finance our new life together. The
temptation was just too much for
HIM--
ALICE
Emma, it's your fault because you
wore it in the first place!
EMMA
He works like fifteen jobs already!
You don't know what it's like being
around rich people all the time--
MEG
Actually, we do.
IS
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 101.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - LOBBY - DAY
Nikolai picks up the hotel phone as he removes Emma's room
key from his pocket.
NIKOLAI
(TO OPERATOR)
Pozhalujsta.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
CORDELIA
(INTO CELL)
Gratitude, Mummy. That's what I'm
talking about. It's just so unfair
the way Daddy assumes I've nothing
better to do than--
The hotel phone rings, interrupting her complaint.
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
Hold on.
She picks up the ringing telephone at the desk.
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
What is it? What?
(LISTENS)
I cannot understand you.
She hangs up, heads for the fruit basket with her cell.
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
Mummy, Mummy, I'm just saying I
wish someone, anyone, would
consider my feelings. Just once.
She snatches up an apple from the basket without looking.
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
You go ask him how much he thinks a
simple "thank you" might cost.
She hangs up her cell with a sniff and raises the apple,
stopping when she sees where Emma has eaten.
She recoils, dropping the apple, which rolls across the
carpet and hits one of Emma's sandals beneath the desk.
Cordelia approaches, looking down to discover the other
sandal in the wastebasket, along with Emma's broken plastic
tiara, room service dishes, and the newspaper.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 102.
CONTINUED:
Cordelia pulls the newspaper from the trash, curiosity
turning to shock as she takes in the huge torn photograph of
Emma wearing her necklace.
EXT. DINGHY - AT SEA - DAY
The women paddle back towards the Marina.
ALICE
Well, we're just going to have to
talk to her.
MEG
Oh, yeah, that was the first thing
that struck me about her. How
reasonable she seemed--
EMMA
(seizing on the idea)
Yeah, we'll just explain.
MEG
We should have sailed that yacht
right back to Wisconsin--
EMMA
IS
(SELLING HERSELF)
it was an accident. This whole
THING--
MEG
You think she'd fit in one of those
trunks of hers--?
ALICE
Meg?
MEG
Just thinking out loud.
EMMA
You never know. She might
understand.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
Cordelia slams the steel briefcase onto the bad, scrabbling
at the combination lock.
CLICK! She rips the lid open to reveal the empty velvet
lining and she SCREAMS!
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 103.
EXT. HOTEL DE PARIS - DAY
Richard pays a taxi driver, taking Alice's repaired suitcase,
and mounts the steps directly behind Domenico escorting
Penelope through the revolving door.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - LOBBY - DAY
Domenico and Penelope head for the ballroom entrance and
Richard arrives at the front desk, just as the clerk's phone
begins to ring.
Richard holds up the newspaper with Emma's photo.
RICHARD
I need to find this woman--
The clerk puts up a finger as he lifts the receiver.
CLERK
Une moment, Monsieur. Pardon.
Behind Richard, Nikolai crosses from the bank of house phones
for the elevator, stopping to pluck a flower from the lobby's
arrangement.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
CORDELIA
(on hotel phone)
Send security! Immediately! This
is Cordelia Winthrop Scott. I've
been robbed!
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - LOBBY
Nikolai steps into the elevator, the doors closing, just as
Alice, Emma and Meg throw themselves through the lobby's
revolving door.
At the desk, the clerk hangs up one phone to pick up another,
stalling Richard again with his finger.
CLERK
Pardon.
(INTO PHONE)
SECURITE--
The clerk stops, spotting Emma as she, Alice and Meg, sprint
past the front desk and Alice wipes out, tripping over her
own suitcase on the floor beside Richard.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 104.
CONTINUED:
ALICE
Oh!
Richard whips around to see Alice spread-eagled on the marble
floor as Meg and Emma slide to a stop.
RICHARD
Alice?
MEG ALICE
Richard! Richard--?
RICHARD (CONT'D)
Alice!
EMMA
Wow! Richard!
Richard drops down to help Alice as she struggles up, dizzily
finding her feet to stand.
RICHARD
Honey, are you alright--?
ALICE
You got my message.
She hugs Richard tightly.
RICHARD
I had no idea where you were. I
looked all over Paris, but, I
COULDN'T FIND--
(NOW HEARING)
What message?
ALICE
You went all the way to Paris?
RICHARD
A week's an awfully long time.
MEG
Longer in France.
CLERK
Excusez moi, Mademoiselle Scott?
EMMA
Hey, Francois! How are you--?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 105.
CONTINUED: (2)
CLERK
(UTTERLY CONFUSED)
You--? You still need security?
Alice and Meg's heads swing in the clerk's direction.
CLERK (CONT'D)
You are still robbed?
ALICE
No!
(dials it down)
A misunderstanding. We're fine.
She's fine.
(TO EMMA)
You're fine, right?
EMMA
Super fine.
ALICE
Richard, we've got to--
(sighs, in love)
I can't believe you're here--!
MEG
But, we've got a little situation--
EMMA
(grabbing Alice's arm)
It'll just take a minute! We'll
have her right back!
MEG
Don't worry about a thing!
RICHARD
(holds up newspaper)
Like this?
ALICE
(KISSES RICHARD)
I'll explain everything! I
promise!
They take off for the elevator.
EMMA
Boy! Does he love you.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 10 6.
CONTINUED: (3)
ALICE
(GLEEFUL)
Did you see he fixed my suitcase?
EXT. HOTEL DE PARIS - HALLWAY - DAY
Nikolai rings the doorbell.
CORDELIA (O.S.)
Oh, thank god!
Cordelia opens the door to Nikolai, who holds out the room
key and flower with a smile as her brows come together.
NIKOLAI
Lechu k tebe na krylyah lyubvi.
CORDELIA
Security?
They look at each other in confusion, Nikolai's smile fading,
Cordelia with mounting alarm.
She slams the door in his face.
At the end of the hall, the elevator doors open for Alice,
Emma and Meg, as Nikolai removes the necklace from his pocket
and reaches to ring the suite's bell again.
EMMA
Niki!
ALICE
The necklace!
MEG
Don't touch that bell!
They race down the hall towards Nikolai, who gapes, perplexed
by the sight of Emma.
EMMA
Oh, Niki! I knew it! I knew it!
I believed in you the whole time!
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
Cordelia hides behind the drapes with the hotel phone.
CORDELIA
Yes! Police! This is Cordelia
Winthrop Scott.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 107.
CONTINUED:
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
In the Grimaldi Suite at the Hotel
de Paris. You must come straight
away. I've been robbed! And now
some horrible, foreign man--! I
believe someone is trying to kill
me!
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - HALLWAY - DAY
Emma kisses Nikolai as she pushes him onto the elevator.
EMMA
Wait for me in the lobby, sweetie.
Down in half a second--
NIKOLAI
Ya tebya lyublyu.
EMMA
I know. Me, too.
The doors close and Emma sprints back down the hall to Alice
and Meg at the door.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Okay! Do it!
Alice rings the bell.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
Cordelia approaches the door cautiously and spies through the
peep hole at the back of Meg's head.
CORDELIA
Yes? Who is it?
MEG
(voice dropped low)
Security, Madame.
CORDELIA
Finally--!
She opens the door.
A beat where Cordelia focuses on Alice and Meg first,
possibly remembering them, then she registers Emma.
She blinks, completely nonplussed.
ALICE
We can explain.
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 108.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - LOBBY - DAY
The elevator doors open and Nikolai steps off just as the
revolving door begins to spin, spitting uniformed POLICE
OFFICERS and their CAPTAIN into the lobby.
The clerk looks up and hustles around the desk to meet them.
CLERK
Pardon? Is there a problem--?
POLICE CAPTAIN
We received a report of an
attempted murder in the Grimaldi
Suite. Cordelia Scott--
Richard, sitting nearby, looks up at the mention of
Cordelia's name, at the same time that Nikolai takes a seat
at the far end of the same sofa.
CLERK
No. No. It is robbery. But,
Mademoiselle Scott said it wasn't.
Jean-Pierre, checking lists at the ballroom's entrance, notes
the commotion and Cordelia's name, joins the group.
JEAN-PIERRE
Excuse me. What's--? Mademoiselle
Scott has been robbed?
CLERK
No. She said, not.
POLICE CAPTAIN
She said someone was trying to kill
her! We are going up!
Richard seems to debate getting involved as the police, the
clerk and Jean-Pierre head for the elevators.
Looking over, he notices Nikolai, who smiles and nods.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
CORDELIA
You can save your "sorrys" for the
POLICE--
EMMA
The police--?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 109.
CONTINUED:
CORDELIA
You robbed me!
ALICE
But, the necklace is right here--!
CORDELIA
You stole from me--!
EMMA
ONLY BORROWED--
MEG
We haven't taken anything--
EMMA
And, we dry-cleaned the dresses--
Meg and Alice wince, look daggers at Emma.
CORDELIA
(ICY DISGUST)
You wore my clothes?
EMMA
Well... For the children.
CORDELIA
Wha--? What children?
MEG
In Africa.
ALICE
(IMPATIENT)
This whole thing is for charity.
Your necklace is for the auction.
CORDELIA
Well, there will certainly be no
AUCTION NOW--
EMMA
But, that's not fair! It's not the
CHILDREN'S FAULT--
ALICE
Look, you weren't here. Everyone
thought she was you--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 110
CONTINUED: (2)
CORDELIA
(INCREDULOUS LAUGH)
Thought she was me? Who could
possibly believe--?
ALICE
They all did.
Cordelia looks at Alice a beat as this lands with her.
MEG
(drives it home)
Every one of them.
CORDELIA
But, look at you!
Emma takes a step towards her doppelganger, facing off.
EMMA
Well, look at you!
ALICE
EMMA--
CORDELIA
(DRIPPING CONTEMPT)
Common country cows playing dress
up. Pretending to be something
you're not. Trying to be something
that not one of you could ever hope
TO BE--
EMMA
You mean miserable?
Cordelia blinks.
EMMA (CONT'D)
Or a petty, spoiled, selfish--
CORDELIA
(REELS BACK)
You--!
EMMA
Bitch!
Cordelia slaps Emma across the face.
Alice and Meg gasp and they all stand a beat in shock.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 111.
CONTINUED: (3)
Emma raises a hand to cup her cheek as Alice and Meg turn
slowly to Cordelia, their faces set like warrior masks.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - HALLWAY
DING! The elevator doors open and the police spill out,
followed by the clerk and Jean-Pierre.
They hear a SCREAM! and break into a run.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
Alice shoves Cordelia roughly into a chair, thrusting her
back down as she tries to struggle up, points at Emma.
ALICE
You apologize to her right now!
CORDELIA
Apologize--?!
ALICE
You know, I feel sorry for you--
MEG
I don't.
Cordelia scoffs and Alice leans over her, menacing.
ALICE
Because no matter where you go, no
matter where you jet to in this
world, you are still going to be
you.
(points to Emma)
And, let me tell you; she is who
you want to be!
The all freeze when a BANGING erupts at the door.
POLICE CAPTAIN (O.S.)
Mademoiselle Scott? It is the
police! Open up!
Alice claps a hand over Cordelia's mouth, looks to Meg.
EMMA
(mouths the words)
The police?
0
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 112.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - HALLWAY - DAY
The police captain pounds on the door again, motioning for
the clerk to use his pass key.
POLICE CAPTAIN
Mademoiselle? Open this door!
ALICE (O.S.)
Coming! Just a moment, please!
The captain grabs the key from the clerk and turns the
handle, just as Alice coolly opens the door from within.
ALICE (CONT'D)
Bon jour.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - DAY
The police enter, followed by Jean-Pierre and the clerk.
ALICE
(FEIGNED SURPRISE)
Cordelia, it's the police.
Emma turns her head from the mirror she faces.
EMMA
Oh, no! This is going to be so
embarrassing. Please tell me you
didn't run all the way over here
just for me.
POLICE CAPTAIN
You said there was someone trying
to kill you--
CLERK
It was a robbery, but, no.
JEAN-PIERRE
Alice, what's going on?
ALICE
A terrible misunderstanding. You
see, she couldn't find her
necklace.
JEAN-PIERRE
(PANICKED)
But, you have it?
IS
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 113.
CONTINUED:
Emma turns, holding the necklace up to her throat.
EMMA
Yes, but, Jean-Pierre, would you be
a dear and help me? I can't seem
to manage the clasp.
Jean-Pierre senses something amiss, but steps to assist Emma.
POLICE CAPTAIN
We heard a scream--
ALICE
When she found it--
EMMA
JUST NOW--
ALICE
She was so happy--
EMMA
Relieved! I screamed with delight.
POLICE CAPTAIN
And there is no one that wants to
kill you?
EMMA
(LIGHTLY JOKING)
Well, I can't speak to that.
POLICE CAPTAIN
You said on the phone--
ALICE
She said she would die. If she
didn't find it--
EMMA
The necklace!
ALICE
Yes!
Alice turns her brightest smile to the captain.
POLICE CAPTAIN
And this is the necklace? For the
auction?
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 114.
CONTINUED: (2)
JEAN-PIERRE
(CHECKING)
It is.
He looks back and forth between Alice and Emma.
JEAN-PIERRE (CONT'D)
Very lucky.
EMMA
Extremely! Think of all the
schools we'll build!
(to charm captain)
Do you like it?
POLICE CAPTAIN
(falling for it)
Allow me to escort you,
Mademoiselle. As a precaution.
Emma, spots one officer poking his way toward the bedroom.
EMMA
(seizes captain's arm)
Oh, but, yes! Would you? What an
entrance I'll make! So dramatic!
Alice, are you coming, dear?
Jean-Pierre takes Alice's elbow as Emma leads the captain and
the rest of the group from the suite.
ALICE
Let me just grab my purse.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - BEDROOM - DAY
Alice opens the door as narrowly as possible.
ALICE
You okay in here?
Meg sits on top of Cordelia who is tied to a chair with a
scarf, the fruit-basket apple jammed in her mouth.
MEG
We're great. But, now you can add
KIDNAPPING--
ALICE
(RE: CORDELIA)
Well, don't tell her that. Throw
me a purse.
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 115.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - LOBBY - DAY
DING! Richard and Nikolai both look up as the elevator doors
open and Emma emerges led by the police captain.
Nikolai leaps up.
NIKOLAI
Moy angelochek?
Richard jumps up when he sees Jean-Pierre escorting an
anxious Alice from the rear of the battalion.
RICHARD
Alice?
Alice winces as she sees Richard approaching, at the same
time Nikolai rushes to Emma.
EMMA
Niki, I'm sorry. It's just going
to another minute.
NIKOLAI
Ya sdelayu vsyo, chto smogoo--
EMMA
Perfect! That sounds good.
Emma is led to the ballroom by the captain as Richard meets
Alice and Jean-Pierre in the center of the lobby.
ALICE
(quick, preemptive)
Richard, this is Jean-Pierre, Jean-
Pierre this is Richard, my fiance--
RICHARD JEAN-PIERRE
(BLINKS) (BLINKS)
Fiance? Fiance?
Jean-Pierre offers his hand to shake, smiling knowingly.
JEAN-PIERRE
Ahh... A pleasure to meet you.
You've come for the auction--?
ALICE
Yes! He came all this way!
Richard tightens his grip on Jean-Pierre's hand.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 116.
CONTINUED:
RICHARD
Alice? Who is this guy--?
Alice breaks Richard's vice grip with a bright smile.
ALICE
I told you, that's Jean-Pierre!
(TO JEAN-PIERRE)
He's exhausted! It's such a long
trip!
Richard flicks his eyes narrowly at Jean-Pierre.
JEAN-PIERRE
(DEFLECTING)
I believe we are ready to start.
Shall we go in?
Alice loops an arm through Richard's to follow Jean-Pierre,
but jerks to a stop when Richard doesn't budge.
RICHARD
Is there something I need to know?
Alice looks at Richard, reading his face, and smiles.
ALICE
No. There's isn't.
She leads Richard through the ballroom entrance only to be
stopped by an ATTENDANT.
ATTENDANT
Pardon, Monsieur, invitation--?
ALICE
He's with me!
As Alice pulls Richard through to the ballroom, Nikolai steps
to the reception table behind them, producing an elaborate
invitation from inside his jacket.
ATTENDANT
Oh! Monsieur Ludovic! Welcome!
As Nikolai is ushered into the auction with great fanfare,
the lobby's revolving doors turn and Bernard enters, carrying
Meg's bottle of wine.
0
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 117.
0 INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - BEDROOM - DAY
Meg, holding the apple, sits facing Cordelia, still tied to a
chair, the two glaring at each other.
CORDELIA
You will never get away with this.
MY FATHER--
MEG
Believe me, nothing would make me
happier than having a little talk
with your father--
Both their heads swing toward the door when the bell RINGS!
Meg jumps to Cordelia, stuffing the apple in her mouth just
as she opens it to scream.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - HALLWAY - DAY
Bernard looks up when Meg opens the door a crack.
MEG
Bernard...?
He holds out the bottle of wine.
BERNARD
We forgot your prize.
MEG
Oh, I...
She glances back into the room behind her, carefully
obscuring Bernard's view through the half open door.
BERNARD
I have come at a bad time?
MEG
No. No, Bernard, that's not it.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SUITE - BEDROOM - DAY
Cordelia kicks her legs against the floor, straining against
the scarf as she tries to overturn the chair.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - HALLWAY - DAY
MEG
I'd invite you in, but--
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 118.
CONTINUED:
THUMP! They both hear Cordelia's chair hit the floor inside
and Bernard darkens.
BERNARD
I think--. You are busy. I think
now I go--
Meg reaches out to stay him with a hand on his arm.
MEG
No. Bernard, wait--
CLICK! Meg and Bernard both turn their heads to look down
the corridor when Cordelia sticks her head out the bedroom
door into the hall.
A beat as Cordelia and Meg lock eyes.
DING! The elevator doors open at the end of the hall, closer
to Cordelia.
She looks back at Meg for an instant then bolts as Meg leaps
past Bernard into the hall.
MEG (CONT'D)
Hey! Stop!
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - BALLROOM - DAY
Emma models Cordelia's necklace on a stage for over a hundred
GUESTS with Domenico fielding bids beside her.
DOMENICO
The bid is three hundred thousand!
Alice stands just off to the side on the floor below, between
Richard and Jean-Pierre, with Penelope.
RICHARD
so, they all think she's this
Cordelia Scott because...
ALICE
It's for a school, Richard--
RICHARD
In Africa.
NIKOLAI
(HEAVILY ACCENTED)
Five hundred!
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 119.
CONTINUED:
All the heads in the room turn with an excited murmur as
Nikolai steps to the front of the assembly.
DOMENICO
Five hundred thousand!
ALICE
Oh,no...
JEAN-PIERRE
Yes !
EMMA
(TO HERSELF)
No.
Nikolai smiles up at Emma as ANOTHER GUEST raises a Champagne
glass in bidding.
DOMENICO
Five hundred, five hundred fifty
thousand!
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - SERVICE STAIRS - DAY
Bernard races to catch up as Meg flies down the stairs.
BERNARD
But, Meg! Why do we run?
Meg stops on a landing, turns.
MEG
Bernard, you should stop. You
really don't need this. I may be
going away for a long time--
BERNARD
To America?
MEG
Something like that. Look, this is
where we should say "au revoir."
Bernard smiles and pulls Meg to him, kisses her.
BERNARD
But, I must see how this ends!
0 He grabs her hand and they plunge down the stairs together.
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 120.
INT. HOTEL DE PARIS - BALLROOM - DAY
NIKOLAI
Eight hundred!
The crowd applauds happily.
EMMA
Niki. What are you doing?
NIKOLAI
Vsyo, chto ya de-la-yu, lish dlya.
EMMA
Well, don't. Just stop, okay?
JEAN-PIERRE
(ALARMED)
Why is she stopping him?
ALICE
(MISERABLE)
He doesn't have any money. He's
just a busboy, but they're in love-
JEAN-PIERRE
That's Nikolai Ludovic--
ALICE
He means no harm--
JEAN-PIERRE
Alice. Lithuania?
ALICE
Yes?
JEAN-PIERRE
He owns it.
Alice blinks.
DOMENICO
The bid stands at eight hundred
THOUSAND EUROS--
EMMA
No! No. Ladies and gentlemen, I'm
terribly sorry, but, there's..
(TO NIKOLAI)
Honey, you can't bid on this, okay?
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 12 1.
CONTINUED:
EMMA (CONT'D)
Put your hand down, and I'll be
done in a second. Then we can go.
JEAN-PIERRE
Mon dieu!
ALICE
Emma!
Jean-Pierre reacts to Alice's "Emma!" as she breaks away.
RICHARD
Alice--!
She climbs the stage to Emma before the baffled audience.
EMMA
Alice, he doesn't understand. It's
like a foreign language to him--
ALICE
Actually, it's not. Let him bid.
EMMA
But, he'll get in trouble--
ALICE
He's fine. Let's just get this
THING DONE--
NIKOLAI
One million!
EMMA
Nikolai! You cannot bid against
yourself!
DOMENICO
One million Euros!
EMMA
No! Stop! Stop! I'm sorry. I
can't... I cannot allow this
sweet, wonderful man to buy this
necklace, because...
(finds the courage)
It is not mine to sell.
CORDELIA
No. It is mine..
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 122.
CONTINUED: (2)
The crowd gasps, stepping back to reveal Cordelia in the
center of the ballroom, backed by all the police, just as Meg
.and Bernard enter, skidding short when they see the crowd.
MEG
Oh, shhhh--
EMMA
Merde.
Richard, Jean-Pierre, Penelope, and Domenico all swing
between the two "Cordelias," as Meg makes her way forward
with Bernard.
CORDELIA
Arrest those women! They are
imposters!
A wave of comment sweeps the confused crowd.
PENELOPE
Wait!
Penelope steps up onto the platform, shielding Emma and Alice
as the police come forward and Meg climbs up.
PENELOPE (CONT'D)
These are not imposters! These are
my friends!
CORDELIA
Penelope Pignose?!
PENELOPE
And, you were never anyone's
friend.
Alice takes in the escalating situation, steps bravely
forward to the front of the stage.
ALICE
It's true!
A ripple of exclamation sweeps the dumbfounded crowd.
ALICE (CONT'D)
We're not who we said we were.
We're... We're only high school
teachers. From Racine, Wisconsin.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 123.
CONTINUED: (3)
CORBEL IA
(turns to captain)
There! You see?
ALICE
We'd never been anywhere. And we
took a trip, that didn't belong to
us... Because, well, because you
thought we were... important. And
that she was Cordelia...
Richard smiles at Alice, supporting her with his gaze.
ALICE (CONT'D)
We wanted to help.
MEG
(TO BERNARD)
We never meant to mislead anyone--
EMMA
(TO NIKOLAI)
Or hurt anyone--
ALICE
We're very sorry. And, we're
willing to face the consequences,
whatever they are... But...
She turns to Meg and Emma as a smile blossoms.
ALICE (CONT'D)
But, this was our adventure.
MEG
And it was an excellent one.
ALICE
We wouldn't change a minute of it.
EMMA
Not for anything in the world.
Richard takes the pulse of the frighteningly still crowd, the,
hesitating police, the charged air in the room.
RICHARD
one million five hundred thousand!
The crowd gasps and Alice gapes at Richard.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 124
CONTINUED: (4)
RICHARD (CONT'D)
Why not go big?
PENELOPE
One million six hundred thousand!
EMMA
Penny, you don't have to...
PENELOPE
Friends. Right?
DOMENICO
Excellent! We have a bid for one
million six hundred thousand!
Cordelia whirls to the police captain amidst applause.
CORDELIA
Why are you just standing there?!
Arrest them!
POLICE CAPTAIN
Arrest them? For what? They seem
very nice.
0
DOMENICO
One million six hundred thousand!
Do I have another bid?
CORDELIA
They confessed! They're imposters!
They stole my necklace!
POLICE CAPTAIN
That necklace? But, it is here,
no?
CORDELIA
They kidnapped me!
POLICE CAPTAIN
And yet you are here. I see no
problem. Everyone is very happy--
CORDELIA
Excuse me, but, I'm not happy!
POLICE CAPTAIN
Ah, but, this...
(GALLIC SHRUG)
I can do nothing about.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 125
CONTINUED: (5)
NIKOLAI
Three million!
The crowd erupts, giddy, their applause escalating.
DOMENICO
Three million Euros!
EMMA
Nikolai! No...
ALICE
Emma. It's okay.
EMMA
How? How can it be okay?
ALICE
He's rich.
JEAN-PIERRE
(LEAPING IN)
SOLD! To Monsieur Nikolai Ludovic!
For three million Euros!
The crowd cheers, overwhelming a forgotten Cordelia as it
rushes forward to hoist Nikolai up on the stage.
At the same time, Alice breaks through the throng to jump
down and wrap her arms around Richard.
ALICE
Richard...
RICHARD
ALICE--
ALICE
Take me home?
RICHARD
Anywhere you want, Alice. We'll go
anywhere you want.
They kiss as Meg finds Bernard who shakes his head with a
broad smile, holding out the bottle of wine.
MEG
Oh, good. I could use a drink.
BERNARD
First prize. To the champion.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 12 6.
CONTINUED: (6)
Nikolai takes Emma's hands in his up on stage.
EMMA
(scared, shaky)
Niki? What's going on?
NIKOLAI
Ya das-ta-nu to-be zvyoz-dee.
Emma nods, without any real understanding, as he indicates
the necklace.
NIKOLAI (CONT'D)
Is my gift. For you.
Emma's eyes slowly come into focus as it all becomes
clear-and she FAINTS.
EXT. HOTEL DE PARIS - DAY
Together, Alice, Meg and Emma offer an envelope fat with
Euros to Jean-Pierre.
They stand, with Richard, Bernard, Nikolai, Penelope and
Domenico, beside a waiting sedan at the base of the hotel's
steps where the trio of paparazzi shoot away.
ALICE
This is for our room. And the trip
down.
MEG
The rest is for the schools.
Jean-Pierre hesitates in accepting the envelope, but Alice
presses it on him.
ALICE
Please.
JEAN-PIERRE
You are all extraordinary women.
(TO RICHARD)
I wish you much happiness.
RICHARD
(SHAKING HANDS)
Thank you.
Meg turns to Bernard, holding up the bottle of wine, as
Richard places Alice's suitcase in the trunk with their
shopping bags.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 127.
CONTINUED:
MEG
You come to Wisconsin, we'll drink
this in my kitchen.
BERNARD
Yes.
They embrace and Meg turns with Alice to Emma who stands arm
in arm with Nikolai.
ALICE
Now, Emma, you're sure about this?
EMMA
I'll call you both as soon as I
know. They may have to get a sub
at school for a couple of weeks,
but, oh, you guys, I swear it
sounded like a proposal!
Alice and Meg turn to Nikolai who grins and nods away.
NIKOLAI
Yes! Yes!
0 EXT. HOTEL DE PARIS - FRONT DRIVE - MOMENTS LATER
Jean-Pierre closes the car's door with Alice, Meg and Richard
inside, stepping back to join Emma, Nikolai, Bernard,
Penelope and Domenico, who watch as the car pulls out.
Together, they wave their friends away.
Jean-Pierre shakes hands with Nikolai and kisses Emma, tips
his head in farewell to Bernard, then enters the hotel with
Penelope and Domenico.
Emma and Nikolai shake hands with Bernard, then turn and head
for the marina, trailed by one of the paparazzi while the
other two pause to reload their cameras.
As Bernard hops on his moped to zip away, the revolving doors
turn and Cordelia steps out, talking on her cellphone,
followed by a train of bellhops and luggage.
CORDELIA
Yes, Daddy! It was a huge success--
She stops suddenly, as if struck, and her expression of
perpetual anger melts away as she listens, blinks.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 12 8.
CONTINUED:
CORDELIA (CONT'D)
(DEEPLY MOVED)
Thank you? You're, you're welcome.
One of the paparazzi raises his camera to take her picture,
but another places his hand over the lens.
PAPARAZZI
That's not her. That's the other
one.
INT. NICE AIRPORT - TERMINAL GATE - DAY
Alice sits between Richard and Meg at the departure gate,
each lost in their own thoughts as TRAVELERS pass to and fro.
A long beat.
A small smile finds its way onto Alice's face and she gently
lowers her head to rest it on Richard's shoulder.
Richard finds Alice's hand and squeezes it in his own.
INT. NICE AIRPORT - JETWAY - DAY
Meg walks down the jetway in her skinny jeans, a bounce in
her step, shopping bags in one hand, the bottle of wine
gripped in the other, as though headed for a party.
Behind her, Alice carries her shopping bags and Richard totes
Alice's suitcase.
ALICE (V.0.)
"I used to wander aimlessly,/
Wanton my goal, grievous my
plight./Your dear hands led me,
guided me."
Alice encircles Richard's waist as they walk, and he slings
an arm around her shoulder, kisses her hair.
FADE OUT.
FADE IN:
EXT. ZAMBIA, AFRICA - DAY
Under a beating sun, Emma, dressed in immaculate white linen,
holds hands with Nikolai as a MOB OF LAUGHING CHILDREN and
their TEACHERS greet them outside a new Marchand Foundation
schoolhouse.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 129.
CONTINUED:
ALICE (V.0.)
"Over the far horizon, night/
Glowed with the pallid hope of
dawn./Your eyes' glance was my
morning light."
A YOUNG GIRL presents a length of brightly woven fabric,
draping it over Emma's shoulders as Emma picks the girl up
and the other children lead Emma and Nikolai inside.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL CLASSROOM - DAY
A bulletin board in Meg's classroom is covered in African
fabric, photographs and letters, all under a banner that
reads: Food Drive for Our Sister School - Zambia.
The two students who had cooked their pot holders sort canned
goods beneath the board, while Meg cooks, surrounded by the
rest of her CLASS.
ALICE (V.0.)
"No sound - save his own tread
upon/The ground - to ease the
wanderer's heart./Your voice
encouraged me: 'go on!"'
0
A STUDENT carefully scoops spices with a measuring spoon,
holding it out for Meg to add to her pan.
She ignores the spoon, instead reaching to pinch some spice
with her fingers and encourages the student who follows her
example.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL CLASSROOM - DAY
Alice moves freely around the center of the circle of desks
her STUDENTS have formed, reciting by memory.
ALICE
"Yes, my heart - dark, cowed, set
apart,/Alone - bewailed its dire
distress./Sweet love, with its all-
conquering art."
The entire classroom hangs on her every word.
ALICE (CONT'D)
"Joined us as one in joyousness."
A beat as she and her class float on the last phrase of Paul
Verlaine's poem.
(CONTINUED)
Monte Carlo Draft 3 - November 4, 2007 13 0.
CONTINUED:
AMBER 0
(HALTING FRENCH)
Mademoiselle Perry, what was it
really like?
Alice refocuses to smile at Amber and survey all the faces of
her students for a beat.
ALICE
Everyone should go. At least once
in their life.
(PAUSES)
There's a whole world for you to
see.
FADE OUT.
FINISH
