Executive Producer: Peter Berg Script #: 513
Executive Producer: Jason Katims Episode #: 426
Executive Producer: David Nevins Production#: 04026
Executive Producer: Brian Grazer
Executive Producer: Sarah Aubrey
Executive Producer: David Hudgins
Co-Executive Producer: Patrick Massett & John Zinman
Co-Executive Producer: Bridget Carpenter
Co-Executive Producer: John Cameron
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
"Always"
Written by
Jason Katims
Directed by
Michael Waxman
PRODUCTION DRAFT
July 9, 2010
July 12, 2010 Blue Pages: Sets,8,9,24,37,37A,38,49,51
July 13, 2010 Pink Pages: 13,14
July 15, 2010 Yellow Pages: Sets,
8,14,34,35,36,46
© 2010 NBC STUDIOS, INC. All rights reserved. Not to be duplicated
without permission. This material is the property of NBC Studios, Inc.
and is intended solely for the use of its personnel. The sale, copying,
reproduction or exploitation of this material in any form is prohibited.
Distribution or disclosure of this material to unauthorized persons is
also prohibited.
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
513 - "Always"
Production Draft
07/09/10
CAST LIST
COACH ERIC TAYLOR
TAMI TAYLOR
JULIE TAYLOR
VINCE HOWARD
LUKE CAFFERTY
JESS MERRIWEATHER
BECKY SPROLES
HASTINGS RUCKLE
TIM RIGGINS
TYRA COLLETTE
MATT SARACEN
LANDRY CLARKE
BUDDY GARRITY
BILLY RIGGINS
MINDY COLLETTE-RIGGINS
PRINCIPAL LEVI BURNWELL (N.S.)
LAUREL SACHS (N.S.)
COACH CROWLEY (N.S.)
COACH SPIVEY (N.S)
STAN TRAUB (N.S)
DALLAS TINKER
GRACIE TAYLOR
BUDDY GARRITY JR.
ORNETTE HOWARD
REGINA HOWARD
ANGELA COLLETTE
CHERYL EVERHEART
AUNT BIRD BUCKNER
MRS. LORRAINE SARACEN
ANDRE MERRIWEATHER
DARIUS MERRIWEATHER
CALEB MERRIWEATHER
WILLIE GAULT (V.O. ONLY)
COACH HAYWARD
INTERVIEWER
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
513 - "Always"
Yellow
07/15/10
SET LIST
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
BUDDY'S BAR - NIGHT ALAMO FREEZE - DAY
COLLETTE HOUSE - NIGHT BECKY'S HOUSE - DAY & NIGHT
CONVENIENCE STORE - NIGHT BRAEMORE COLLEGE - DAY
COTTON BOWL CONVENIENCE STORE - NIGHT
LOCKER ROOM - DAY COTTON BOWL
DILLON MALL - DAY FIELD - NIGHT
DINER - DAY DALLAS WALKER HIGH FIELD - DAY
EAST SIDE BAR - NIGHT DILLON - DAY
JESS'S HOUSE - DAY DILLON BUS DEPOT - DAY
LANDRY'S HOUSE EAST DILLON FIELD - DAY
GARAGE - DAY EAST DILLON HIGH - DAY
LION FIELD HOUSE - DAY EAST SIDE BAR - NIGHT
COACH'S OFFICE - DAY FAIR PARK - DALLAS, TEXAS - DAY
LOCKER ROOM - DAY FOOTBALL FIELD - DAY
MATT'S CHICAGO APARTMENT - DAY HERRMANN FIELD - DAY
PANTHER FIELD HOUSE PEMBERTON HIGH SCHOOL FIELD - NIGHT
LOCKER ROOM - DAY RESTAURANT - NIGHT
RESTAURANT - NIGHT RIGGINS HOUSE - DAY
RIGGINS HOUSE - DAY SHORT GARDEN SUPPLY - DAY
SARACEN HOUSE - DAY TIM RIGGINS'S LAND - DAY
TAYLOR HOUSE - DAY & NIGHT
JULIE'S ROOM - NIGHT
VINCE'S APARTMENT - DAY
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
“Always”
TEASER
EXT. DILLON - BEAUTY SHOTS - MORNING (D1)1 1
Early morning in Dillon. As we’ve never seen it before --
dressed for Christmas. Dilloners hanging their lights;
Ray’s B.B.Q. all dressed up for the holiday; Buddy’s Bar
looking merry, at the Landing Strip two strippers dressed as
elves stand out front, welcome the lunch crowd.
CHYRON READS:
FIVE DAYS TO THE TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
EXT. EAST DILLON FIELD - POPS - MONDAY MORNING (D1)2 2
The LIONS sit in directors chairs answering questions from
the LOCAL and some NATIONAL TV REPORTERS. VINCE, LUKE,
TINKER, BUDDY JR., HASTINGS. It feels strangely like a
callback to the pilot, except a lot of red replaces the blue.
INTERVIEWER
How do you feel about the shut down
of the East Dillon program?
TINKER
It’s a conspiracy.
VINCE
I don’t wanna comment on that.
LUKE
I think it’s a mistake is how I
feel.
HASTINGS
It blows.
BUDDY JR.
It sucks.
INTERVIEWER
How does it make you feel that this
is likely the last game of football
you’ll ever play?
TINKER
You’re a jackass.
(CONTINUED)
CLOSE ON VINCE -- Hero shot. Thoughtful.
INTERVIEWER
I was watching the new kid Sterling
-- looks like he’s going to make a
helluva back.
VINCE
He’s a Panther.
INTERVIEWER
I’m thinking next year. Rumor is
you’ll be quarterbacking the
Panthers. Best of Panthers combined
with the best of the Lions. They’re
calling it the Superteam.
Vince sees Tinker, JESS, a few scrubs watching. They won’t
be part of the Superteam.
VINCE
I don’t wanna talk about that. I
wanna talk about this Friday.
INTERVIEWER
What about this Friday?
VINCE
About how the East Dillon Lions are
going to win state.
INTERVIEWER
Is that a wish or a promise?
VINCE
It’s a fact.
INTERVIEWER
Rumor has it you’ll be coaching the
Superteam next year.
COACH TAYLOR thinks, chews, then--
TAYLOR
No comment.
INTERVIEWER
No comment? Really? Because we’ve
heard the offer they made you is
pretty sweet.
Taylor has no response but we PRELAP:
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 2.
CONTINUED:2 2
(CONTINUED)
TAYLOR (V.O.)
A five year deal doesn’t come
around that often.
INT. TAYLOR HOUSE - MORNING (D1)3 3
Eric hangs a strand of lights over the fireplace. TAMI is
readying for the day.
TAYLOR
... Five years. That’s security.
That’s his and her closets.
TAMI
What is that supposed to mean?
TAYLOR
It means, that house we looked at
couple of years ago? We could get
a house like that.
TAMI
Oh my God, Eric--
TAYLOR
You’re the one who wanted a house,
now we can afford to--
TAMI
It’s not fair. I’ve been following
you, Eric. This whole time. Now I
have something... something I want
to do. So bad.
TAYLOR
We cannot turn our backs on a five
year contract.
TAMI
Sugar? That contract is from the
people that fired you two years ago
for no reason. And me a year
later.
TAYLOR
That’s was McCoy. The McCoys are
gone.
TAMI
You’ve said it yourself a hundred
times. You could coach high school
football anywhere. This offer from
Braemore is one in a million.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 3.
CONTINUED: (2)2 2
(CONTINUED)
Things here are far from resolved. There is a knock on the
door. Taylor is thrilled to put a pin in this conversation.
TAYLOR
(heading for the door)
Someone’s at the door.
TAMI
Don’t look so happy.
Taylor opens the door and we’re all surprised to see MATT
SARACEN looking more nervous and fidgety than usual.
TAYLOR
Well, look what the cat drug in.
SARACEN
I’m here. I’m in town.
TAYLOR
I see you’re in town.
SARACEN
Is uh... hi Mrs. Taylor.
TAMI
Matt...
JULIE, unseen, stands in the hallway, smiling hearing him
there. Enjoying his nervousness.
SARACEN
So I was wondering if Ju... your
dau-- Julie was around? You know,
just thought I’d stop by.
JULIE
Hello, Matthew.
He sees her. She sees him. It’s so obvious these two are
lousy in love. Coach and Tami clock it all.
JULIE (CONT’D)
Be back soon.
Julie and Matt leave. Coach and Tami just look at each
other, oh the excitement of parenting a teenage girl.
TAYLOR
Has that stutter gotten worse?
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 4.
CONTINUED:3 3
EXT. ALAMO FREEZE - DAY (D1)4 4
Matt and Julie, stride through the parking lot toward the
Freeze. She play hits him.
JULIE
I can’t believe you didn’t tell me
you were coming back for Christmas.
Why didn’t you let me know? We
could’ve planned things --
She realizes he’s no longer next to her. She turns and sees
that Matt has dropped to one knee. Time slows. She takes in
what is about to happen. Matt is more serious than he’s ever
been. He takes out a diamond ring.
SARACEN
This is Grandma’s.
Julie is stunned. Mind moving a mile a minute. She knows
she’s going to have to say something really soon that will
determine her entire future. She’s shaking.
SARACEN (CONT’D)
I just, I’ve been thinking about
things. About you. Since you came
to Chicago. That week. It felt
good. Real good. I know we’re
young. But I love you. And I
know. I just know. You know, that
you’re the one Julie Taylor. Will
you marry me?
JULIE
(under)
Uh-huh.
SARACEN
So... sorry, you gotta speak up.
Is that a...?
JULIE
Yes. I do. Affirmative. I’ll
marry you, Matthew.
They throw themselves into each other’s arms and kiss. She
screams and jumps up and down. People stop to watch.
JULIE (CONT’D)
I love you. I love you. I’m
shaking. Oh my God, what did my
Dad say?
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 5.
(CONTINUED)
SARACEN
Your Dad?
JULIE
When you asked him for permission
to propose?
SARACEN
(laughs)
Right. Could you imagine?
JULIE
Wait, you didn’t ask him?
SARACEN
You’re serious?
JULIE
Yeah.
SARACEN
I thought that was like an old
wives tale.
JULIE
An old wives tale? How is that
like an old wives tale?
SARACEN
It’s so old fashioned.
JULIE
Hello. Have you met my Dad? You
have to go talk to him. Pretend
like you haven't asked me, and like
I haven't said yes, and go ask him.
SARACEN
Are you being serious right now?
Can’t we just go over there
together and--
JULIE
Matthew. You gotta go. You and
him. Man to man.
OFF a terrified Matt, we,
SMASH TO:
MAIN TITLES
END OF TEASER
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 6.
CONTINUED:4 4
ACT ONE
EXT. RIGGINS HOUSE - DAY (D1)5 5
RIGGINS and BILLY are under the hood of Tim’s truck.
RIGGINS
I thought you said you were taking
care of my stuff, Billy.
BILLY
It was running fine all this time
‘til you come back. I think you
pushed it too hard. And what do
you care anyway? You’re off to
Alaska do drill for oil.
RIGGINS
I may or may not.
BILLY
Is that right?
RIGGINS
I’m thinking about putting that on
the back-burner for awhile.
Billy narrows his eyes, spits.
BILLY
It’s cause you got with Tyra.
RIGGINS
Shut up, Billy.
MINDY enters holding STEVIE.
MINDY
Tim, stay away from my sister.
It’s incest now.
BILLY
It isn’t incest, there’s no
bloodline.
MINDY
I know it isn’t technically, but
it‘s just way too weird.
RIGGINS
Hey, I was thinking about taking
the day walking around Dillon.
Kind of taking it in.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 7.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Thought maybe I could take my
nephew. Do some bonding.
MINDY
You’re not going to wind up over by
Tyra’s are you?
RIGGINS
Hadn’t thought about it.
Mindy looks at him, not buying it for a minute. But then
again, any excuse to get the kid off her hip:
MINDY
You want him? You got him.
CUT TO:
INT. VINCE’S APARTMENT - DAY (D1)6 6*
Vince enters to find his MOM. *
REGINA
What are you doing here? I thought *
you had practice. *
VINCE
I do, just need my cleats. *
REGINA
Can you believe it, baby? You’re *
going to State! Have you seen this
town? Everywhere you go it’s the
Lions. And the radio? I can’t
believe how far you’ve come. I am
so proud of you.
VINCE
So listen, have you heard anything
from Dad?
Regina sees that’s the real reason Vince is there.
REGINA
Honey, you don’t want him anywhere
near Dallas...
VINCE
Momma, it’s State. This is once in
a lifetime.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 8.
CONTINUED:5 5
RIGGINS (CONT'D)
(CONTINUED)
REGINA
This is the most exciting week of
your life. We’re not going to let
him ruin it. We are going to have
this moment. You hear me?
VINCE
Okay, Momma.
But we can tell Vince is more than a little ambivalent. The
boy in him wants his Dad to see him play.
CUT TO:
INT. LANDRY’S HOUSE - GARAGE - DAY (D1)7 7
LANDRY could not be more amused as Matt practices his speech.
SARACEN
And anyway, sir, for all those
reasons, and many more, I am asking
your permission to propose to your
daughter. Sir... Well?
Landry just laughs.
SARACEN (CONT’D)
Jackass.
LANDRY
No, it’s a good speech.
SARACEN
It is?
LANDRY
No.
SARACEN
You’re not a friend. You’re like
the opposite of a friend.
LANDRY
I wish I could be a fly on the wall
for this one.
SARACEN
Landry, this is serious. I’m
sweating. What am I supposed to
say? Should I talk about Chicago?
Like that I have a job and I got
like two promotions at the art
gallery--
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 9.
CONTINUED:6 6
(CONTINUED)
LANDRY
I wouldn’t bring up that you work
at an art gallery.
SARACEN
You’re not helping.
LANDRY
I think you should try like crying,
maybe. Just break down. Just look
too pathetic to say no to.
SARACEN
Are you seriously telling me to cry
to Coach?
LANDRY
The whole thing is crazy. Remember
when we used to hang around the
coffee shop desperately trying to
talk to Julie? And she wouldn’t
ever even talk to us. That was
like an entire year of our lives,
just trying to get her to look at
us. And you are going to marry
Julie Taylor. The amazing Julie
Taylor.
SARACEN
She is. She’s amazing.
LANDRY
And she could be yours. There’s
only one roadblock. One
impenetrable roadblock. He is
going to eat you for lunch.
Landry takes out a tee shirt from his college.
LANDRY (CONT’D)
I got this for Tyra.
SARACEN
Nice.
LANDRY
It’s not a big deal.
SARACEN
Listen, Julie told me she and
Riggins got together.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 10.
CONTINUED:7 7
(CONTINUED)
LANDRY
Oh.
SARACEN
I just... I thought you should
know.
LANDRY
I have a girlfriend, Matt.
SARACEN
I know.
LANDRY
This is just a tee shirt.
SARACEN
I just didn’t want you to be caught
off guard is all.
OFF Landry, covering...
CUT TO:
INT. LION FIELD HOUSE - DAY (D1)8 8
Coaches coming out of a Coach meeting. CROWLEY, SPIVEY,
Billy, STAN -- all jockeying for a moment or two to ask Coach
a question. Jess is faster, gets there first.
JESS
Hey Coach, listen, I just wanted to
ask if you’ll take me with you?
TAYLOR
Where?
JESS
To the Panthers. Superteam.
TAYLOR
Who says I’m--
JESS
It’s all over the place. You’re
coaching Superteam.
TAYLOR
It’s rumors, Jess. Trust me.
JESS
But if the rumor turns out to be
true. Will you take me?
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 11.
CONTINUED: (2)7 7
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
This year has been... it’s been
like a dream for me, Coach. I want
to keep doing it.
TAYLOR
Wrong time, Jess.
JESS
Will you consider it?
He turns, looks at her. At this point he is pretty much
inclined he’ll coach the Panthers.
TAYLOR
I will consider it.
JESS
(fighting emotion)
Thank you, sir.
He walks away. Jess smiles.
EXT. EAST DILLON FIELD - AFTERNOON (D1)9 9
POPS OF PRACTICE. Actually, the last practice. LUKE is
wound up, psyched, over the top, as he tries to rally the
team to run a gap-six.
LUKE
Let’s do this! Come on, we’re
going to State! We are taking the
gap 6 to State! Hastings!
HASTINGS? What are you doing?
HASTINGS
Running my route, sir!
LUKE
Not like that you’re not!
Billy gets into it -- starts yelling at Luke who’s yelling at
Hastings.
Vince takes the moment to hydrate -- looks at Tinker who
looks down.
VINCE
What’s wrong, Tink?
TINKER
This is gonna be my last football
game. I’m done. I’m not going to
Superteam.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 12.
CONTINUED:8 8
JESS (CONT'D)
(CONTINUED)
VINCE
Someone say something to you?
TINKER
What they gotta say? Come on.
VINCE
Look, Tink. I’ve got a little
juice over there. I have your
back.
TINKER
You can’t tell them who to bring.
VINCE
I’m gonna talk to them, Tink. I’m
gonna talk to Coach.
As Billy goes into another gear, angle on
THE BLEACHERS
Riggins sits alone holding Stevie in a Snugli. He’s just
taking it in.
RIGGINS
So there’s your Dad acting like a
maniac. There’s special teams.
They’re the freaks. And those
there are the boosters. Watch out
for them. And those pretty things
over there - those there are the
cheerleaders. They’re the ones
you’re really gonna wanna keep your
eye on once you get a little older.
Coach walks up.
TAYLOR
Who you got there?
RIGGINS
Stevie. Billy’s kid. So, State?
TAYLOR
Yeah...
RIGGINS
Bring it home, Coach.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 13.
CONTINUED:9 9
(CONTINUED)
TAYLOR *
You alright working over at Buddy’s
bar? You need anything, son?
RIGGINS *
No, sir.
Taylor senses the vulnerable place this kid is in right now.
TAYLOR
You hang in there. It’ll get
easier.
RIGGINS
Yes, sir.
They’re distracted because on the field, Billy is screaming
again!
TAYLOR
What about that guy?
RIGGINS
No doubt. He’s a screamer.
TAYLOR
I think he’s hollering a little
extra loud today for his family.
(then)
You two work things out?
On cue, Billy looks over -- sees the three most important
people in his life together. Gives a wave. Tim looks at his
brother, lifts his hand, waves back. Peace offering.
INT. RIGGINS HOUSE - AFTERNOON (D1)10 10
BECKY comes in from the bathroom with a pillow case full of
laundry.
BECKY
Okay, this is too awkward for me.
You gotta do this one.
Mindy reaches in, takes out a bunch of Tim’s clothes.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 14.
CONTINUED: (2)9 9
(CONTINUED)
MINDY
Let Tim wash his own drawers.
BECKY
So now he’s back with Tyra?
MINDY
Becky--
BECKY
I’m just askin.
MINDY
Tim Riggins is with no one. He
will never be with no one. Luke
will marry you. Do I have to say
this again?
BECKY
No, ma’am.
MINDY
Good.
BECKY
So, listen, I’ve been meaning to
tell you, I got some good news.
MINDY
What’s that?
BECKY
I heard from my Mom! She’s coming
home this week!
Becky is trying to sound happy about this. Mindy is trying
to not show how stunned she is.
MINDY
She is?
BECKY
So I’ll me moving back in with her.
MINDY
That’s great, Becky.
Mindy is hurt that Becky dropped this so lightly. She turns
cold.
MINDY (CONT’D)
So, what day?
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 15.
CONTINUED:10 10
(CONTINUED)
BECKY
I think Thursday. I’ll know for
sure tomorrow.
MINDY
Well, if you need help moving your
crap out of here, we’ll get Billy
to help.
BECKY
Oh, okay, thanks.
Mindy leaves, a bit huffy. OFF Becky--
INT. LION FIELD HOUSE - COACH'S OFFICE - LATE AFTERNOON (D1)11 11
Saracen sits across from Taylor.
SARACEN
Julie and I have known each other a
long time now.
TAYLOR
Yeah, I know.
Matt wipes a bead of sweat from his forehead.
SARACEN
And I want to assure you that
I’m... I’ve grown up a lot, sir...
I know you knew me as a kid... I’m
not saying I’m old or anything, but
I’m mature. For my age.
Saracen pauses for Coach to acknowledge what he just said.
Taylor just stares at him.
SARACEN (CONT’D)
I want to marry your daughter, sir.
You could hear a pin drop.
SARACEN (CONT’D)
I love her. I will take care of
her. Always. And I want to ask
for your permission to ask her to--
TAYLOR
Are you insane?
SARACEN
No, sir.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 16.
CONTINUED: (2)10 10
(CONTINUED)
TAYLOR
How old are you?
SARACEN
I have a job. I’ve had two
promotions at the art gallery since
I--
TAYLOR
How old are you?
SARACEN
Nineteen sir.
TAYLOR
Julie is eighteen. Eighteen.
SARACEN
I know that but I feel--
TAYLOR
First off, did you not see the news
vans outside? This is the week of
State - do you think this is
something I want to be thinking
about this week? Second, the
answer is no.
SARACEN
Well, Coach... We don't actually
need your permission. Asking you
was really just a courtesy. I've
already asked her, and she's
already said yes.
Taylor looks at him, takes in this new bit on info, he’s
chewing his lips a mile a minute.
TAYLOR
Son. I am telling you what she’s
saying. And she’s saying no.
INT. TAYLOR HOUSE - EVENING (N1)12 12
Taylor rips through the door and Tami is right on him ready
to pick up the argument where they left it off.
TAMI
And by the way I’ve been thinking
about what you said that we’re not
East Coast people.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 17.
CONTINUED:11 11
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
It’s true I love Texas and you love
Texas but being someone stuck in a
provincial attitude like that is
not the man I met and fell in love--
TAYLOR
We got bigger problems.
TAMI
Let me just finish--
TAYLOR
We - have - bigger - problems.
Tami looks at him, gets this.
TAYLOR (CONT’D)
Sit down.
TAMI
If someone died will you just--
TAYLOR
Matt Saracen wants to marry our
daughter.
Tami is totally sucker punched, aghast. The only dumbass
thing that comes out of her mouth is--
TAMI
Julie?
TAYLOR
Of course Julie. You think he
wants to marry Gracie?
TAMI
When did you--
TAYLOR
He came to me to ask my permission--
TAMI
Well, at least he had the good
sense--
TAYLOR
He already asked Julie.
TAMI
He talked to our daughter?
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 18.
CONTINUED:12 12
TAMI (CONT'D)
(CONTINUED)
TAYLOR
Apparently, she said yes.
TAMI
Oh my God, Eric. She is too young.
TAYLOR
It’s what I told him--
TAMI
This is what happens. People meet
and get sidetracked. And what’s
she going to do, move to Chicago?
TAYLOR
They are not getting married.
TAMI
I am so glad we found something we
could agree on.
TAYLOR
Amen to that.
BLACK OUT:
END OF ACT ONE
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 19.
CONTINUED: (2)12 12
ACT TWO
INT. TAYLOR HOUSE - JULIE’S ROOM - EVENING (N1)13 13
Tami pokes her head in. Julie sits on her bed.
TAMI
So, I heard the news.
JULIE
Oh, God, did Matt talk to Dad? Did
Dad freak?
TAMI
Yes, and yes he did.
JULIE
Mom, look, it was his Grandma’s.
Julie holds her hand to show Tami the ring. Tami sits next
to Julie on the bed, holds her hand, looks at the ring.
TAMI
That sure is beautiful.
JULIE
You should have been there. Matt
was so adorable.
TAMI
Exciting.
From Tami’s tone, Julie gets that Tami isn’t aboard the
marriage train yet.
TAMI (CONT’D)
Sweetie? This is just a little
fast.
JULIE
I know it is...
TAMI
I didn’t even know you two were
dating and now you’re--
JULIE
Mom, I know.
Tami looks at her daughter. How do you argue young love?
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 20.
(CONTINUED)
TAMI
I know you do. Your father and I
want to take you and Matt out for
dinner.
JULIE
To celebrate?
TAMI
To discuss.
JULIE
This sounds scary.
TAMI
Honey, if you truly know what
you’re doing is right, there is
nothing to be scared about.
OFF this...
INT. COLLETTE HOUSE - EVENING (N1)14 14
Angela opens the door to see Tim holding Stevie, she
immediately takes Stevie in her arms.
ANGELA
Oh my God.
(calling out)
Tyra! Tim and the Baby are here!
Come in!
RIGGINS
Hope it’s okay I didn’t call.
ANGELA
Forget call. Oh my God, give me
that little baby.
Tyra comes out, just the slightest bit flustered to see Tim.
RIGGINS
Collette.
TYRA
Hey, Tim. Oh my God, I swear that
is the most beautiful baby I’ve
ever seen.
Tyra tries to wrench the baby from Angela, immediately
turning all her attention away from Tim to the baby. Hm.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 21.
CONTINUED:13 13
(CONTINUED)
ANGELA
Wait your turn. Sweetie, get Tim a
beer.
Tyra heads to the fridge and Tim follows her there, for a
private moment.
RIGGINS
Thanks. So, you wanna do something
later?
Awkward. Tyra is throwing him a definite negative vibe.
TYRA
Well, I’m supposed to go to Buddy’s
to hang with Matt and Julie.
RIGGINS
Seven’s in town?
TYRA
Yeah, you’re not going to believe
it. They got engaged.
RIGGINS
Wow. Well, I’m working at Buddy’s
tonight so--
TYRA
Oh.
ANGELA
Tyra, honey, that baby needs a
change.
TYRA
Got it, Ma...
RIGGINS
So I guess I’ll see you over there.
TYRA
(non-committal)
Sounds good.
She leaves with Stevie to give him a change. Tim is left
with Angela.
ANGELA
She just needs time.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 22.
CONTINUED:14 14
(CONTINUED)
OFF Riggins, experiencing the rare brush off.
CUT TO:
EXT. EAST SIDE BAR - NIGHT (N1)15 15
Vince walks toward ORNETTE hanging out with some friends.
Before Ornette sees him, Vince can hear snippets of his
conversation.
ORNETTE
Kid was doing a three-step drop,
but I told, ‘You got an arm, you
gotta use that arm.”
Ornette notices Vince, immediately feels a little caught
bragging about his son. He’s also still smarting a little
about his son throwing him out of his own home.
VINCE
Hey....
ORNETTE
Whatchu doin on this side of town.
I heard you all Westside now.
Superteam.
VINCE
Come on, Pops.
It’s with a laugh. It’s a jab. The friends laugh. But
there’s hurt, anger and humiliation underneath. Vince takes
it in stride.
VINCE (CONT’D)
Can I talk to you a sec?
They go off aside to talk. There’s a beat.
VINCE (CONT’D)
You doing okay?
ORNETTE
You don’t need to come check up on
me, boy.
That came out harsh, so Ornette pulls back a bit--
ORNETTE (CONT’D)
How’s your Momma doin?
VINCE
Alright.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 23.
CONTINUED: (2)14 14
(CONTINUED)
ORNETTE
You tell her I said hey. And I’m
sorry.
VINCE
Yes, sir.
Vince takes a beat.
ORNETTE
You just gonna stand there.
VINCE
We got State Friday.
ORNETTE
I know you got to State. I live
here.
VINCE
I requested a ticket for you.
Ornette, clearly moved by this, considers.
VINCE (CONT’D)
I’m driving out with the team. And
Mom has a ride out with some of the
other parents. So you’d have to
make your way out there on your
own. We probably wouldn’t get to
see you that much otherwise, but
you’d be there.
Too prideful to accept this half invitation...
ORNETTE
Gotta lot going on that day. But
I’ll be watching.
Ornette walks back to his boys. OFF Vince, realizing the
cost of locking your father out of his own house.
CUT TO:
INT./EXT. CONVENIENCE STORE - MONDAY NIGHT (N1)16 16
Tim, holding Stevie, comes out of the store with a six pack.
Runs into Becky on her way in. Awkward.
BECKY
Oh, hey, Tim.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 24.
CONTINUED:15 15
(CONTINUED)
RIGGINS
Sproles.
BECKY
Ah Stevie...
She takes Stevie in her arms. She clearly knows the kid a
lot better than Tim.
BECKY (CONT’D)
I’m gonna miss him so much.
RIGGINS
Where are you going?
BECKY
Home. My Mom’s moving back.
RIGGINS
Wow.
BECKY
I miss her, but I don’t want to go
back there. But I don’t have a
choice. I mean, it’s weird at the
house now. Mindy’s been a total
bitch to me.
RIGGINS
Becks, she’s been taking care of
you all this time. She likes you.
She probably feels bad is all.
Becky looks at Tim, surprised and moved that this nugget of
wisdom was stored in his beer infused mind.
BECKY
You think?
RIGGINS
Besides it’s been good for you over
there. You look happy.
She looks at him--
BECKY
So is it true you’re going to
Alaska?
RIGGINS
I don’t know.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 25.
CONTINUED:16 16
(CONTINUED)
BECKY
You seem a little lost Tim Riggins.
RIGGINS
Yeah.
BECKY
So just to let you know. I’ve got
a boyfriend. I’ve grown up. You
know? I was young and stupid. But
you don’t have to worry about that
anymore. I’d like to be your
friend, Tim.
RIGGINS
You’re not a friend, Becks. You’re
family.
OFF Becky, moved, we,
CUT TO:
INT. LION FIELD HOUSE - DAY (D2)17 17
MAYHEM as Coach Riggins and Spivey hand the Players their
tickets to the State game for their families. They call out
a few names and the players take their tickets. Coach Taylor
watches from the doorway, enjoying watching their excitement
over getting their tickets.
BILLY
Howard!
Billy hands two tickets to Vince.
VINCE
I only need one, Coach.
BILLY
What are you talking about?
VINCE
I got one person coming.
Taylor clocks this.
BILLY
Have you not heard of Craig’s List,
you imbecile.
(next player)
Jackson.
Vince goes to his locker and Taylor approaches.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 26.
CONTINUED: (2)16 16
(CONTINUED)
TAYLOR
One ticket?
VINCE
It’s just me and my Moms, Coach.
TAYLOR
Your Dad?
VINCE
I asked him. He’s busy.
Vince’s body language doesn’t leave room for further
conversation. OFF Taylor...
CUT TO:
INT. RESTAURANT - EVENING (N2)18 18
Matt and Julie sit uncomfortably across from Coach and Tami.
All are more dressed-up than usual - if anyone laughed or
smiled, you'd think it was a celebratory meal. Forks clink
on plates. Coach takes a slug of life-giving red wine, sets
it down, and thus begins the "dinnervention."
TAYLOR
So you think that you should just
be able to do what you want,
getting married is no big deal.
SARACEN
No sir, I know it's a big deal...
JULIE
(overlapping)
You guys got married when you were
our age.
TAMI
That is not so!
JULIE
You were in college.
TAMI
The specifics are not
important.
TAYLOR
It was a different time.
TAMI
That's not the point, the point is,
there is no reason for you to rush
into this!
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 27.
CONTINUED:17 17
(CONTINUED)
JULIE
We're not rushing... we love each
other. We're not getting married
tomorrow.
TAMI
Honey, you just have not had very
much life experience yet, and--
TAYLOR
(overlapping; taking over)
What your mother means is that
marriage requires maturity.
TAMI
That's right.
TAYLOR
You need to be ready to spend the
rest of your lives listening to
each other.
TAMI
Yes.
TAYLOR
Marriage requires compromise.
Suddenly... this strikes Tami as ironic.
TAMI
Mm hm.
SARACEN
(to Coach)
Uh, I understand that.
TAYLOR
I hope you do.
SARACEN
I just. I love Julie. I want to
marry her. That's it.
While the simplicity of Matt's words are totally winning to
Julie, Coach is irritated.
TAYLOR
Oh, for God's sake. Are you
listening to me? Marriage takes
more than love.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 28.
CONTINUED:18 18
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
You've got to be ready to sacrifice
whatever you think you might need,
because your marriage comes ahead
of that.
Tami's really looking at Coach now. Starting to get mad all
over again, given his dismissal of her job offer.
TAMI
What your father is trying to say
is you need to know that you have
the same dreams together. How do
you know you’re not going to go in
two different directions. You’re
both still figuring out what you’re
going to do with your futures.
JULIE
Well, things come up, right? Like
look at you and Dad. You’ve moved
a lot. You’ve had to work things
out and you’ve always worked on it
together. I mean, you two are my
inspiration.
TAMI
Sweetie, I want you to have your
best possible life. You too Matt.
And I think you’re a great couple.
A wonderful couple. But there is
no reason to rush this. I promise
you, if it is meant to be, you will
know that in a year, or two years,
or five years. I guarantee that.
And thank you. What you said.
About us being your inspiration...
Tami is suddenly flooded with emotion, feeling that her
marriage right now feels the opposite of fair and inspiring.
TAMI (CONT’D)
I’m sorry...
TAYLOR
You alright...?
TAMI
I am. I just....
And she has to get up and walk out.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 29.
CONTINUED: (2)18 18
TAYLOR (CONT'D)
(CONTINUED)
TAYLOR
I’ll be right back. Think about
what she said.
Taylor goes out after her.
JULIE
Wow...
SARACEN
Yeah.
They both suddenly look a little scared of getting married.
EXT. RESTAURANT - NIGHT (N2)19 19
Raining. Tami under a canopy. Eric comes out, stands there.
TAYLOR
What’s wrong?
TAMI
I feel like everything in our
marriage goes fine as long as I’m
the one who makes it work. I’ve
always been the one who makes it
work. I followed you here, and I
love it here in Dillon. I don’t
regret it. But when you were
talking about compromise in there I
was thinking, “What am I teaching
my daughter by my example?” That
the man always comes first? That
we should just smile and make it
all work? I don’t want her to
learn that from me.
There’s a long beat. He feels for her but he is unwavering.
TAMI (CONT’D)
Let’s go finish dinner.
TAYLOR
Shouldn’t we--
TAMI
They’re waiting.
She walks back inside. OFF Taylor...
BLACK OUT:
END OF ACT TWO
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 30.
CONTINUED: (3)18 18
ACT THREE
INT. TAYLOR HOUSE - MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT (N2)20 20
Taylor comes out, still half asleep, finds Tami sitting,
thoughtful. She’s been there for a long time. It’s one of
those rare moments when Eric and Tami went to sleep mad.
TAYLOR
If you won’t talk to me, how are we
going to make a decision.
She looks at him, resolved.
TAMI
I’ve decided. I’m going to decline
the Braemore job. I can’t fight
you on this. Even if I won, I
wouldn’t want you resenting me
every minute you were in
Philadelphia.
TAYLOR
Alright. If that’s what you want.
TAMI
You know it’s not what I want,
Eric.
Julie comes out.
JULIE
Why are we all up?
TAMI
I don’t know, sweetie.
JULIE
I know you think I’m young and you
have this fear that I’ll drop out
of college and mess up my future or
that I haven’t met Mr. Right yet --
which is ironic, since you guys met
in high school -- but he is Mr.
Right, I will never sell myself
short and I love him. And I know.
I know. So I’m going to do this.
And I really want you guys on my
side. Please trust me.
They look at her. What the hell can you say to that?
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 31.
(CONTINUED)
TAMI
Honey, I trust you. I do. And if
you know for sure this is what you
want, then your father and I will
support you.
A tearful Julie hugs her mother.
JULIE
Are you still arguing?
TAMI
No.
Which is not really true.
CUT TO:
EXT. BECKY’S HOUSE - DAY (D3)21 21
Billy, Mindy and Becky pull up to Becky’s house, they all get
out, Billy starts hauling Becky’s stuff out of the truck bed.
MINDY
Alright, you’re here.
BECKY
Okay, so....
Becky moves in to hug Mindy, Mindy turns away, reaches for
one of her bags.
BECKY (CONT’D)
Listen, please don’t be mad at me,
okay?
MINDY
I’m not--
BECKY
I’m sixteen. I have no choice but
to live with my mother.
MINDY
I never said--
BECKY
I think you think I’m going to
leave you. But I’m not. You’re
right down the road. I’ll be at
the house all the time. Every day.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 32.
CONTINUED:20 20
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
I couldn’t bear not to be around
Stevie anymore and I’m gonna love
the twins just as much. It doesn’t
matter where I live. You are my
family now.
Mindy looks at Becky, just starts to cry. They hug. Hard.
We hear a scream of joy from within as CHERYL realizes that
Becky has arrived. Cheryl runs out, sweeps up Becky in her
arms. Mindy watches, bittersweet.
CUT TO:
INT. JESS'S HOUSE - AFTERNOON (D3)22 22
Jess walks in to discover a huge celebration at the house.
AUNT BIRD, and her BROTHERS are jumping up and down.
JESS
What’s going on here?
BROTHERS
We’re going to Dallas! We’re going
to Dallas! We’ve got a big house
and pool! We’re rich!
JESS
What are you talking about?
AUNT BIRD
Your father called. The Ray’s
franchise in Dallas has taken off
so much he’s opening another
location and he’s going to bring
you guys there to live with him.
As the celebration swirls around her, Jess stands there,
devastated.
CUT TO:
INT. EAST SIDE BAR - EVENING (N3)23 23
A seedy bar. Coach Taylor walks the gauntlet, the only white
face here, and finds Ornette at the bar, facing away from
him.
TAYLOR
Excuse me.
Ornette turns, sees Taylor. Takes it in. These two have a
history. Taylor makes it simple:
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 33.
CONTINUED:21 21
BECKY (CONT'D)
(CONTINUED)
TAYLOR (CONT’D)
Listen, here’s a ticket to State on
Friday.
ORNETTE
I already told Vince--
TAYLOR
Go see your son play. You need to
see your son play in State. It’s
not something too many fathers get
to see and you should not miss it.
Taylor leaves the ticket on the bar next to Ornette and walks
out. OFF Ornette, considering, we,
CUT TO:
INT. BUDDY'S BAR - NIGHT (N3)24 24
Tim in a Buddy’s shirt and apron is hanging out with Matt,
Julie and Tyra, drinking, almost legally now. *
RIGGINS *
Cheers! To Matt and Julie! *
They all cheer.
TYRA
Where did he propose?
JULIE
At the Alamo Freeze.
RIGGINS *
Nice, Seven. *
TYRA *
Were you nervous?
SARACEN
A little.
JULIE
A little?
(imitating)
So, J-J-J-Julie...?
SARACEN
That’s not right.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 34.
CONTINUED:23 23
(CONTINUED)
TYRA
So, here we are. Can you believe
it? You guys are engaged. I’m
almost halfway through college.
Kicking ass, by the way. *
RIGGINS
...And I’m out on good behavior.
It’s a joke and they laugh, but it does point up a fact that
Riggins hasn’t done like the others. Tyra looks at him
feeling bad. A slow song starts playing on the jukebox.
Matt and Julie walk out and start dancing. Tyra and Riggins *
sit there. Awkward. Tyra looks at him, like, you wanna...? *
RIGGINS (CONT’D) *
This could get me fired. *
She smiles. They walk out on the dance floor. White fucking *
hot.
RIGGINS (CONT’D) *
You’re the first thing that’s made
sense to me in a long time.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 35.
CONTINUED:24 24
(CONTINUED)
TYRA
You’re sad and lonely, Tim.
RIGGINS
It’s more than that.
(then)
You’ve been pulling away.
TYRA
I can’t Tim. I can’t get pulled
into this with you. I’ve got
plans.
RIGGINS
I don’t.
(then)
So maybe that can work out.
She holds him -- incredibly torn.
On Julie and Matt deeply in love. Tyra dancing with Tim
getting drawn back. The song ends, they stop dancing. On a *
whim, Saracen grabs one of the Lion gameballs off the rack. *
SARACEN
Threes. Give me a down and out by *
the jukebox.
Riggins runs his route and Saracen hits him at the jukebox. *
Riggins tosses the ball to Tyra, she misses it. *
TYRA *
Nice throw. *
Julie joins in and the four of them start a beer infused game *
of touch football at Buddy’s. Buddy approaches from another *
side of the bar.
BUDDY
What the hell is going on?
Buddy stops, sees who’s here, a smile breaks over his face. *
BUDDY (CONT’D)
Oh, it’s y’all. Okay, one time. *
Saracen can you catch a ball if I *
throw it to you?
As they continue...
END OF ACT THREE
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 36.
CONTINUED: (2)24 24
ACT FOUR
EXT. BECKY’S HOUSE - NIGHT (N3)25 25
Cheryl and Becky pull up, after a night out. There’s Luke
sitting there waiting for Becky.
BECKY
What are you doing here?
LUKE
Hi.
(to Cheryl)
Hi, Ma’am, Luke--
CHERYL
Of course it’s Luke. We talked a
whole bunch about you at dinner.
LUKE
Welcome back to Dillon, Ma’am.
CHERYL
Such manners. I like him. Just as
long as he learns to wear a condom.
Woops, one too many margaritas.
I’ll let you two talk.
She walks inside. Leaves Becky and Luke.
LUKE
So, day three us being back
together. How’s it feel?
BECKY
Really good.
He smiles, then--
LUKE
How is it having your Mom back?
BECKY
So weird. We’re gonna try, you
know?
LUKE
I’m glad she’s back. Girl
shouldn’t be without her Momma.
BECKY
God, you’re such a country bumpkin.
What are you doing here?
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 37.
(CONTINUED)
LUKE
I have a question for you. Will
you still love me after football?
She looks at him, he’s serious. She tears up, seeing that he
is seriously asking this, that he seriously believes that her
love for him might be based on him being able to catch and
throw a pigskin.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 37A.
CONTINUED:25 25
(CONTINUED)
BECKY
Yes, I will still love you after
football.
LUKE
Okay.
BECKY
That’s all?
LUKE
Yup. Thanks.
He starts to leave.
BECKY
Luke.
She gives him a come hither look. He walks back. They kiss.
Seriously hot. OFF them kissing, and Cheryl looking out
through the curtain.
CUT TO:
INT. TAYLOR HOUSE - THURSDAY MORNING (D4)26 26
Taylor and Tami sleeping as Eric’s cell rings, startling them
both awake.
TAMI
Who the hell is calling this early?
Taylor gets the cell and walks out of the room so Tami can go
back to sleep.
TAYLOR
Buddy, what the hell are you--?
INTERCUT WITH:
INT. DINER - DAY (D4)27 27
Buddy is on his cell as he eats breakfast.
BUDDY
Buddy Jr. is staying.
TAYLOR
Huh?
BUDDY
With me. El permanente. His cast
comes off in four weeks.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 38.
CONTINUED: (2)25 25
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
He starts rehabbing. He’ll be
ready for summer ball to get him
ready for Superteam.
TAYLOR
That’s damn great. Would you like
to tell me why you are waking me
and my entire family?
BUDDY
I needed to get you before you left
for State. State. Can you believe
it, Eric?
Taylor stops as he’s walking through the living room, notices
something.
BUDDY (CONT’D)
Listen, they want you to sign
before you leave for State.
Eric is engrossed in what he’s looking at.
TAYLOR
Sign what?
BUDDY
Your contract with West Dillon.
With the Panthers.
We see what Taylor is looking at. INSERT SHOT: On the
Braemore stationery, we see that Tami has inked a bunch of
DOODLES on the page. “Dean Tami Taylor.” “Tami Taylor,
Dean, Braemore University.” Taylor looks at the scribblings.
Thinks. The simplicity of it all. It gets to him. How much
of a dream this is for her. How much this opportunity means
to his wife. This opportunity that he is standing in the way
of. We are close with Eric. Buddy keeps talking.
BUDDY (CONT’D)
So I could stop by the field house,
give you a little time to look it
over and sign before you leave.
Clear your mind. So you can focus
on State.
Taylor looks up from the scribbling. Sees his wife walking
into the kitchen, having no idea the intense life moment
Taylor is experiencing right now.
TAMI
Everything alright?
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 39.
CONTINUED:27 27
BUDDY (CONT'D)
(CONTINUED)
Taylor looks at his wife. Her beauty -- inside and out.
Takes one more look at the scribbling.
BUDDY
Sound like a plan, Coach?
OFF Eric Taylor, deep in thought...
CUT TO:
INT. LION FIELD HOUSE - LOCKER ROOM - DAY (D4)28 28
The Lions in jackets and ties are packed and ready to go to
State. They are all on top of the world. Taylor stands at
his door, taking it all in, his mind still racing. Vince
comes up to Jess who is packing equipment for the trip.
VINCE
Hey, can I talk to you for a
second, Merriweather. In private?
Jess looks at him, his intensity.
JESS
Sure.
They find a private place. He moves to her, just kisses her.
It’s romantic.
VINCE
I didn’t want you to be on this
team. I thought it was stupid.
But you were right and I was wrong.
I’m so glad you’re here. I’m so
happy you’re part of this. And I’m
so happy that we’re back together.
I love you.
He kisses her. Jess doesn’t have the heart to tell him that
she is moving away. And the timing is wrong before the game.
JESS
I love you too, baby.
OFF Jess, holding him a little tighter than usual, we,
INT. SARACEN HOUSE - DAY (D4)28A 28A
GRANDMA SARACEN comes out of the back room holding a yellowed
wedding dress.
MRS. SARACEN
Here it is! I found it.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 40.
CONTINUED: (2)27 27
(CONTINUED)
Julie looks at the dress and looks at Matt who just smiles at
Julie’s discomfort.
MRS. SARACEN (CONT’D)
Isn’t that the most beautiful dress
you ever did see?
JULIE
It is.
SARACEN
Grandma, Julie might want a new
dress.
MRS. SARACEN
Nonsense. Of course it’s gonna
need a good washing. Let me look
at that ring on you.
Julie shows it to her. Grandma Saracen takes Julie’s young
hand in both of hers and kisses her hand with the ring on it.
She loses it a little.
JULIE
I love it, Mrs. Saracen.
MRS. SARACEN
You listen to me. You call me
Grandma. We’re family now. Now
hold on let me go find the shoes
and the vail.
Grandma Saracen exits looking for more wedding stuff and Matt
looks at her. Julie looks thoughtful.
SARACEN
What?
JULIE
What if they’re right? My Mom and
Dad. We’re so young. And we’re
living in two different cities.
And do we know? How do we really
know this is a good idea? That
it’s right?
SARACEN
Julie. Shut up. It’s a good idea.
It’s a great idea. This is the
most right thing I’ve ever done.
We’re going to be great together.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 41.
CONTINUED:28A 28A
INT. LION FIELD HOUSE - A LITTLE LATER (D4)29 29
Coach Taylor sits alone in his office, thoughtful.
JESS
Coach. I’m leaving. My dad is
starting up a business in Dallas so
I’m heading over there so I won’t
be with you next year at Superteam.
TAYLOR
You will be missed.
JESS
Thank you.
TAYLOR
I mean that.
JESS
Coach, I can’t tell you how much
this season has meant to me. You
changed my life. You should know
that.
Taylor just listens, takes it in.
JESS (CONT’D)
By the way, I didn’t tell anyone
about Dallas. Vince. No one. I’m
gonna wait til after State.
Taylor understands this better than she could know.
TAYLOR
I think that’s wise.
She starts to leave.
TAYLOR (CONT’D)
Merriweather.
(she turns)
I know the Head Coach at Dallas
Walker. I’ll put in a good word
for you.
OFF Jess, thankful, verging on tears...
OMITTED (MOVED TO 28A)30 30
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 42.
EXT. TIM RIGGINS'S LAND - DAY (D4)31 31
Tim and Tyra on Tim's land at magic hour. In chairs.
Holding hands. Nursing beers. Nothing in the world could
feel more right.
TYRA
I’m gonna be something Tim.
RIGGINS
What do you mean?
TYRA
I don’t know what yet. I’m
thinking -- don’t laugh -- I’m
thinking politics. -- Are you
laughing?
RIGGINS
No.
TYRA
Inside?
RIGGINS
Not a bit.
TYRA
I can see it. I can actually see
it.
RIGGINS
Like Sarah Palin?
TYRA
No, you ass. Like Mrs. Taylor.
But even bigger. Do I sound like a
douche?
RIGGINS
No.
TYRA
So, what I’m thinking right now is
this is the greatest feeling I’ve
had in a long time. Being here
with you. But it scares me.
Because I have dreams.
RIGGINS
I have dreams too. I’m going to
build a house here. Get a job.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 43.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Never do anything illegal again as
long as I live. Maybe we can fit
into each other’s dreams.
She looks at him so moved. Kisses him. The promise of a
future.
TYRA
What a weird Christmas.
RIGGINS
Tell me about it.
INT. DILLON MALL - DAY (D4)32 32
Gracie sits on the Santa’s lap asking him for stuff. Nothing
in the world could be cuter, except maybe for Tami with her
camera taking an endless array of pictures.
TAMI
Your father is going to love this.
Give your Daddy a big smile, Gracie
Belle.
GRACIE
Daddy!
Tami turns and to her surprise there’s Taylor, dressed to
leave for State.
TAMI
What are you doing here? You have
to leave for State.
Taylor takes a long, long beat. Considers. Tami looks at
him.
TAYLOR
Let’s go to Philadelphia.
Tami slowly takes in what he’s saying.
TAMI
What...? What are you talking
about?
TAYLOR
It’s your turn.
Tami is flooded with emotion. OFF this...
BLACK OUT:
END OF ACT FOUR
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 44.
CONTINUED:31 31
RIGGINS (CONT'D)
ACT FIVE
EXT. FAIR PARK - DALLAS, TEXAS - DAY (D5)33 33
The East Dillon bus slowly winds its way down the narrow road
that parallels the Midway, flashers on, with a police escort.
In October, when the State Fair is going, this place would be
alive with noise and energy. Right now, it’s silent.
But it doesn’t matter.
ON THE AWESTRUCK FACES of our Lions as they peer out the
windows - the huge Texas Star ferris wheel, the Hall of
State, the cream-colored colossus of a historic football
stadium looming into view. The bus stops near the entrance
tunnel, and players climb out. FAVOR OUR GUYS - Vince, Luke,
Tinker, Hastings, Buddy Jr. - as they stare up at a dream:
the iconic green letters that read, “Cotton Bowl.”
Taylor and his staff (including STAN) take it in too. This
is for everything. This is State.
INT. COTTON BOWL - LOCKER ROOM - DAY (D5)34 34
Pre-game rituals. Luke sits on a bench, his knee tapping
nervously. Getting his mind right.
Tinker has headphones on, bouncing on his toes, eyes closed,
getting loose and ready. A look of steely determination.
Buddy Jr. stands on his crutches, transfixed by worn photos
of games and players from bygone eras that hang on the walls.
Hastings watches his friend. Ties his cleats tighter.
Vince sits on a training table, watching Jess as she wraps
the last of some tape around his ankles. Unspoken bond.
Taylor approaches.
TAYLOR
You good?
VINCE
Yes, sir.
TAYLOR
No matter what happens tonight. I
am proud of you, son.
Something about the way he says this, Vince senses something
is different about Coach, but he doesn’t know what.
VINCE
You changed my life, Coach.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 45.
(CONTINUED)
The simple truth. Nothing more needs to be said.
Find our coaches - Stan, Billy, Spivey, Crowley. Gathering
up the team.
Taylor walks in, and all heads turn. This is it. He eyes
his troops for a moment. Adjusts his cap. Then:
TAYLOR
Alright. Bring it in.
The team assembles on a knee. Everyone holds hands, and bows
their heads. Taylor takes a beat, and begins:
TAYLOR (CONT’D)
Dear Heavenly father, keep us and
protect us tonight...
As Taylor continues with the prayer, MUSIC BEGINS, launching
us into the last football game we will ever see on Friday
Night Lights. It’s a poem. Images, music, atmosphere. An
ode to everything great about the game we love, as we go:
EXT. COTTON BOWL - FIELD - GAME ACTION - NIGHT (N5)35 35
SLOW MOTION: THE BACKS OF THREE YOUNG LIONS -- holding hands
as they walk to the middle of the field.
A SPINNING COIN LANDS IN THE GRASS...
All THE FANS STANDING, yelling for kickoff. On the LIONS
side - Buddy, Tami, Julie, Saracen, BURNWELL. *
THE LIONS ON THE SIDELINE - one last huddle before one last
game. HANDS OF OUR PLAYERS. The hands all start to come
together, all reaching for the sky. All reaching for the
same thing.
ON THE THEIR FACES - No jubilation. No victory without
sacrifice. Eyes wide open.
ON THE BRIM OF A CAP -- a hand reaches up and adjusts a red
ball cap. Under the cap are THE EYES of COACH ERIC TAYLOR.
ON TAMI TAYLOR -- only she knows that this is Coach’s last
game in Dillon -- wants this win for him more than anything
in the world.
STILL SUPER SLOW MOTION --
A FOOTBALL IS LIFTED OFF A TEE -- blades of grass dance.
ON A FACE MASK -- the eyes of Hastings Ruckle looking up into
wide blue Texas sky, a ball sailing towards him.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 46.
CONTINUED:34 34
(CONTINUED)
WIDE SHOT -- TWENTY TWO PLAYERS in a wide open human COLLISION
called a KICK OFF. RUCKLE RETURNS FOR A GAIN OF 10.
TIGHT ON LINE OF SCRIMMAGE -- looking in between the two
sides. The ball is snapped. COLLISION. Vince drifts back.
TIGHT ON: the FEET of a quarterback. Like a dance.
ON ORNETTE AND REGINA -- in separate sections -- their eyes
meet. Pride in their son no matter what else.
ON LUKE CAFFERTY -- standing in the endzone, arms high.
ON LIONS PLAYERS AND FANS -- CELEBRATING a TOUCHDOWN!
Then... HANDS REACH into the air, the hands seem to hang
there forever. A ball appears. The hands catch the ball,
and a receiver breaks the goal line. TOUCHDOWN HUDGINS.
SUPER SLOW MO -- FACES. PRAYING. CONCERN. HANDS OVER EYES.
COACH TAYLOR -- HE LOOKS UP AT THE SCOREBOARD -- TIED 14-14
ON COACHS RIGGINS -- talking to a player. The player is
crying. Confused. HANDS ON SHOULDER, COMFORTING.
A YARD CHAIN -- pulled tight. FIRST DOWN. Hudgins rolls.
LION PLAYERS -- Exhausted. Defeat written in sweat.
ON ERIC TAYLOR -- This is bad. Time running out.
END ZONE FLAG -- a mass of bodies crush the END ZONE FLAG.
A REFEREE -- hands go up. Touchdown Hudgins!
ON LIONS RALLY GIRLS -- HUDDLED TOGETHER, ready to cry.
BUDDY GARRITY -- spins his State ring. A deep breath.
LUKE CAFFERTY -- RUNNING, legs churning. Taken down in the
back field. His HELMET HITS THE grass -- his tired eyes.
ON THE STANDS -- EVERYONE LOOKS UP AT THE SCOREBOARD -- LIONS
21 - HAWKS 26. Time is running out. This is bad.
REAL TIME -- Noise. Confusion. Battling bands. Screaming
fans. Vince, helmet off, drinking water. Taylor walks up.
WILLIE GAULT (V.O.)
It has been an absolute war, folks.
The Lions of East Dillon have one
last play.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 47.
CONTINUED:35 35
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
Coach Taylor is out of time, so if
the dream is going to happen, it
has to happen right now. This is
for everything.
ON THE SIDELINES -- Vince looks at Coach, calm in his voice.
TAYLOR
63 yards to the endzone. You’re
gonna have give your receivers
time.
VINCE
(he knows)
...Hail Mary, Coach?
TAYLOR
You can do this, Vince.
They share a smile -- in this moment Coach looks at Vince,
looks at his mentor one last time.
VINCE
You got us this far, Coach. It’s
up to me now.
Vince takes the field -- the CROWD goes WILD!!!
WILLIE GAULT (V.O.)
Here we go, ladies and gentlemen.
Vince Howard to the line with
Hudgins in a deep prevent and the
Texas 5-A State Championship
hanging in the balance. Howard
takes the snap. The clocks winds -
Vince looks deep. Pressure comes. The world watching.
WILLIE GAULT (V.O.) (CONT’D)
He sidesteps a defender, almost
goes down. Finds some room, sets
his feet -- he lets it fly!...
REAL TIME GOES TO SUPER SLO-MO AGAIN, as we catch pops of all
our main characters - eyes heavenward, following the arc of
this desperate last-ditch heave.
ON THE BALL, the laces spinning, soaring through the Texas
sky, cresting the parabola of its arc and slowly
descending... spinning, wobbling, everything on the line here
as it lands...
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 48.
CONTINUED: (2)35 35
WILLIE GAULT (V.O.) (CONT'D)
EXT. FOOTBALL FIELD - DAY (D6)36 36
... we see what looks like the same ball moving through what
looks like the same sky, only when it comes down it lands in
the hands of a receiver for the Pemberton Pioneers.
CHYRON: PHILADELPHIA. EIGHT MONTHS LATER.
TAYLOR
Okay, that was sloppy, gentlemen.
Plain and simple sloppy. You know
what let’s do? That’s right.
Let’s run it again.
Coach Taylor, wearing green, but still the same Coach Taylor
looks up at a group of BOOSTERS in the bleachers giving him
dirty looks, like maybe Texas football is a bit overrated.
Circle of life. As we MOVE IN on Taylor we hear...
TAYLOR’S VOICE
Gentlemen, the time has come for me
to move on.
EXT. BRAEMORE COLLEGE - DAY (D6)37 37
Tami Taylor in a power suit walks past a Braemore University
sign through this beautiful campus with two COLLEAGUES who
hang on her every word. She is talking with a passion and
vigor. We see in her eyes and her body language that she is
invigorated, alive. A dream has come true.
TAYLOR’S VOICE
I will always remember the feeling
of that hot breeze slapping my face
as I walked onto the field on a hot
Friday night in Texas.
EXT. HERRMANN FIELD - AFTERNOON (D6)38 38
Vince, in Panther Blue, is going through summer drills led by
Coaches Crowley, Spivey and Riggins. We see Tinker, riding
the bench at the moment, but on the team. Vince kept his
promise. Also riding the bench, Buddy Jr., cast off, ready
for anything.
TAYLOR’S VOICE
The sizzle of the hot dogs grilling
up at the concession stand.
Vince, about to take a snap, stops and turns to see, the
arrival of COACH HAYWARD walking across the field for the
first time. We follow him in his Panther jacket like how we
met Coach Taylor in the pilot.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 49.
(CONTINUED)
The coaches head over like a group of ducklings just found
their momma, and start talking him up. Hayward is polite,
but has his eyes set on meeting one person in particular. He
walks up to Vince.
COACH HAYWARD
Heard a lot about you, son.
As he shakes Vince’s hand we do that classic Friday Night
Lights handshake thing and we see on Vince’s hand, a State
Championship ring. I guess someone caught that pass.
EXT. DILLON BUS DEPOT - AFTERNOON (D6)39 39
As a small crowd of people say their good-byes, we find Luke
in a military uniform, kissing Becky good-bye. He hands
Becky his Championship Ring. As he boards the bus, hold on
Becky’s hopeful gaze as she tries to glimpse him through the
tinted window.
TAYLOR’S VOICE
The smell of the grass.
EXT. EAST DILLON HIGH - AFTERNOON (D6)40 40
Meanwhile, East Dillon isn’t looking as good. The football
field is being used as Student parking. Becky gets out of
her car, she finally got one. She meets up with a few
girlfriends and walks in. Behind her, workers are removing
the Lions sign from the scoreboard. A 2010 State
Championship Banner hangs nearby. Ironic.
TAYLOR’S VOICE
The vibrations from the bleachers
as the crowd first roars.
INT. MATT'S CHICAGO APARTMENT - MORNING (D6)41 41
Matt and Julie are heading out of their apartment. Matt to
go to work, Julie reaches for her college textbook and we see
the engagement ring on her finger. They bicker lovingly
echoing Eric and Tami’s relationship. As they make their way
out for the day...
TAYLOR’S VOICE
All of your hopeful eyes shining
out from underneath your helmets.
EXT. DALLAS WALKER HIGH SCHOOL FIELD - AFTERNOON (D6)42 42
We pan down the sidelines of an unfamiliar football field,
catching glimpses of a squad of Dallas Walker High players.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 50.
CONTINUED:38 38
(CONTINUED)
At the end of them, keeping stats at her new school, is Jess
looking more and more confident and comfortable as an
aspiring football coach.
TAYLOR’S VOICE
You will always be part of me.
EXT. HERRMANN FIELD - AFTERNOON (D6)43 43
Buddy, now the head booster at West Dillon, has laid claim to
Joe McCoy's old golf cart, speeds along the field with the
“Clear Eyes, Full Hearts” sign in back.
INT. PANTHER FIELD HOUSE - LOCKER ROOM - AFTERNOON (D6)44 44
Buddy oversees a Janitor drilling the Clear Eyes, Full Hearts
sign back into the wall of Hermann Field.
TAYLOR’S VOICE
In my heart. And my soul.
EXT. TIM RIGGINS'S LAND - MAGIC HOUR (D6)45 45
Tim is hammering nails of his own. Into the foundation of
his house. On the other side of the foundation, Billy is
working on the house too.
TAYLOR’S VOICE
You are my family.
EXT. TIM RIGGINS’S LAND - MOMENTS LATER (D6)46 46
Tim and Billy sit back in lawn chairs drink a beer, taking a
break. They’re tired -- the good kind of tired.
BILLY
Texas forever, Timmy.
RIGGINS
Texas forever.
They clink glasses.
TAYLOR’S VOICE
I ask only this of you. Wherever
you go and whatever you do,
remember this time when together we
accomplished the impossible.
EXT. PEMBERTON HIGH SCHOOL FIELD - NIGHT (N6)47 47
Team has a knee. Taylor is finishing up his speech.
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 51.
CONTINUED:42 42
(CONTINUED)
TAYLOR
Let me tell you something. That
wasn’t half bad, gentlemen. We have
a long way to go. But we are right
at the beginning. The beginning of
something new. The beginning of
something good. Gentlemen, clear
eyes, full hearts...
The players don’t have any idea what they’re supposed to say.
He smiles.
TAYLOR (CONT’D)
You’ll learn the rest.
Taylor looks up and sees Tami Taylor coming to pick him up.
TAYLOR (CONT’D)
Go home and get some sleep. Six
A.M., Gentlemen. When I say six
a.m. I sure hope to see you here no
later than five-forty.
The team disperses and Taylor walks the other way to Tami who
comes from the other side of the field. The players now
gone, Tami and Eric are two lone figures walking toward each
other. Something so high school about it. They meet around
the 40 yard line. Kiss. Look at each other. No resentment.
They have moved on. Literally. The power of their marriage
the most important thing in either of their lives.
TAMI
You ready to go home?
TAYLOR
Absolutely.
As they begin to walk off the field...
TAYLOR’S VOICE
And know that wherever I go and
whatever I do, I will take these
memories with me. I will cherish
these memories. Always.
The lights power down, and in the darkness, we can just
barely make out the ghostly figures of Tami and Eric Taylor.
GO TO BLACK:
THE END
FNL 426/513 "Always" YELLOW 07/15/10 52.
CONTINUED:47 47
