Script

The Keychain (working title)

Screenplay by: Catharine Charlesworth, Kristen Simpson, Nancy Tam & Alyssa Vertolli

October 7, 2010. University of Toronto Mississauga Sheridan College

OPENING TITLE SEQUENCE

Camera pans from the “heart” of Hart House to ARTHUR and WOMAN at a café table.

OR if Café is unavailable:

Rack focus from the heart on Melanie’s book to Arthur in the background at a picnic table.

DISSOLVE TO:

SCENE 1 EXT. HART HOUSE CAFÉ DAY

A young man and woman are seated at a table for their first date at a café, a popular get-together place for students. ARTHUR, a business student, tries to impress his date, but she seems disinterested. The WOMAN is a fashion management student, who realized over the course of the day that she has made a mistake in going out with this bumbling guy.

 NARRATOR

 Not long ago, there lived a young lad named Arthur. He was a fine boy: polite, kind, humourous, and a bit clumsy…  Arthur tries to pull out a present from his jacket pocket, but manages to clumsily knock over items on the table.  …very clumsy.   For someone with his looks and intelligence, Arthur shouldn't have had any problems meeting a nice young lady, but he did. Arthur had the misfortune of being overrun by the jitters and the butterflies every time a woman entered the room.

 It was his first year at university and Arthur was hoping better luck would come around, but things seemed to remain as glum.

The woman becomes impatient and rolls her eyes.

 Arthur did not give up on love, despite the constant setbacks, but he had been feeling down for a while.  Arthur spills a beverage on the table. The woman hastily gets up and leaves in a huff. Arthur is left sad and torn. He half-heartedly cleans up the table. He loosens his collar and sighs, but knocks over the items he has just picked up once again.

 Until a soft, but cheerful giggle filled the still fall air.  He turns and sees a lovely young woman, MELANIE, sitting at a nearby table.

 Her name was Melanie. She was a beautiful creature of books and coffee and he…well he was just dumbstruck.  Melanie smiles as she timidly holds a book in front of her face. Arthur looks embarrassed and smiles back.   For moment, Arthur was tempted to run away, but before he could get a hold of himself. He blurted out…  Narrator changes into a deep voice.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> “Nice look…book I mean.” <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Melanie looks up, intrigued by Arthur’s curiosity. Narrator changes into a high-pitched voice. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> “Thank you. It’s my favourite.” <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> The two begin to converse. Melanie finds Arthur to be cute and approachable, so she decides to get up and join him at his table. Melanie is confident and curious, while Arthur is shy, but happy and interested in her.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> It was a chance meeting that Arthur had dreamed of for a long time. For him, it was a moment worthy of a history book.

DISSOLVE TO: SCENE 2 EXT. QUEEN’S PARK DAY

For their first date, Arthur and Melanie enjoy a day at the park.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> NARRATOR <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Life for the next few weeks was as sweet as can be. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Arthur and Melanie enjoy some ice cream. Arthur makes a mess of his face with the ice cream and Melanie gently wipes his face. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> The two lovebirds were always together, in and out of class. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> They have a romantic stroll through a park as Arthur walks awkwardly and stumbles occasionally.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Despite a busy schedule of tests and papers, Melanie was always on top of things for the both of them. She made sure there was enough time for work and play. Arthur couldn’t help, but feel a little extra spring in his step. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Arthur nearly trips, but Melanie lovingly holds onto him.

CUT TO:

SCENE 3 EXT. HOUSE PORCH EVENING

At the end of their date, they head to Arthur's house.

NARRATOR <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> When evening came around, the jitters began to take hold of Arthur. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Narrator changes into a deep voice.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> “Would you like to come in? My folks are out.” <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> He loosens his collar and gulps. Narrator changes into a high voice.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> “I would love to!” <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Melanie nods and blushes. In excitement, Arthur pats his pockets and fishes for the key.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Arthur’s hands started to melt into butter, but he wasn’t going to let a slight case of nerves stop him… <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> He jams the key into the door and turns the handle. It is stuck.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> …or a minor technical difficulty. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -1in;"> Arthur quickly fished out another key. He jams it in and turns the handle. It is stuck again.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Suddenly, the butterflies in Arthur’s stomach swarm up into his head, but this was not the time to faint in front of a lady. Melanie sighs and gazes sympathetically at Arthur.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> The cold evening air was settling in. It was best, Melanie thought, to let her prince get some rest.

She pecks him on the cheek and waves good-bye. Arthur watches sadly at as she walks away.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> And with that, she is whisked away by the wind, leaving Arthur cold and silent. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> CUT TO: SCENE 4 EXT. QUEEN’S PARK DAY

On their next date, Arthur and Melanie have a picnic lunch on the grass. Arthur lays down the blanket like a gentleman. They eat and study together. Arthur again is ungainly with his food and has trouble focusing on the words as he shyly glances at her. Melanie caringly picks up after him and is very patient with his staring as she tries to read.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> NARRATOR <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> The next few days, to Arthur’s great relief, carried on splendidly. Melanie was patient and eager to help him live up to the potential she saw in him. She knew he could become more confident. All he needs is a little love and guidance. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> CUT TO:

SCENE 5 EXT. HOUSE PORCH EVENING

At the end of their date, Arthur and Melanie head back to Arthur’s house. They are carrying textbooks and other study material. Arthur again quickly reaches into his pockets for the key.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> NARRATOR <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> (solemnly) <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Then, evening came around again.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> This was the time for redemption. It was time to show Melanie that despite his constant bumbling, he was… <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Arthur is determined this time to get it right, but fails to find the key and pulls out a bunch of useless junk from his pockets. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> …a fool. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Melanie looks disappointed and sad. She puts her hand on his shoulder and leaves.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> It was times like these that Arthur had so desperately wanted to avoid, but he knew he wasn’t going to let himself lose to some silly key.

Heartbroken, Arthur stands forlorn on the porch as he watches her go. This time he is very glum, but becomes resolved to win her back. And turns to his door.

DISSOLVE TO:

SCENE 6 EXT. QUEEN’S PARK DAY

Arthur straightens himself and walks towards Melanie, who is sitting on a bench reading. She doesn’t look up until he is in front of her.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> NARRATOR

<span style="font-family: Courier; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in;">Arthur welcomed the sunshine. For the first time, he knew what he wanted. Melanie had become his world and he was going to prove it to her.

He holds out a jewelry case and reveals a heart-shaped necklace. She looks surprised, but nods and lets him put the necklace around her neck.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Ah! There it was! That smile! (need simile) And with arms linked and toes pointed, the two were reunited with a promise.

They smile at each other and she kisses him on the cheek. They stand up together and walk off.

CUT TO:

SCENE 7 EXT. HOUSE EVENING

At the end of their date, Arthur and Melanie arrive at Arthur's house again.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> NARRATOR <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> (solemnly) <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Then, evening came around…again. It was time to man up to his nerves and beat himself into shape.

Arthur gulps, then mans up and fishes for the key.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> All it required was a simple pat of the pocket and a slight flick of the wrist and out came …

He panics and realizes that his pockets are empty.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> nothing.

Melanie becomes angry, quickly undoes the necklace and tosses it at him before storming off looking disappointed and hurt. Arthur sadly holds the necklace and looks down. A glint from something on the porch catches his eye and he spots the key on the ground.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> And the key? Well, it was just laughing at him, winking at him in the corner of his eye.

Arthur picks up the key and holds it up with the necklace. Suddenly in a flash of inspiration, it dawns on him. He smiles and starts to work on something off-screen.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> He wanted to smash the key in half, throw it in river or just chain it up to a dumpster and…suddenly, Arthur understood. He finally understood what to do. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> (deciding on whether or not to keep these last 2 narrated parts) DISSOLVE TO:

SCENE 8 EXT. HART HOUSE CAFÉ AFTERNOON

Arthur finds Melanie at the Café with a bouquet of flowers. This time he looks more put together with his hair done and stands in a more confident stance. Melanie is again reading her book. She is subdued. She looks a little hurt, but is still happy to see him.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> NARRATOR <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> It was another day, but this time Arthur was ready. He was ready to be the man he was born to be. A well-polished, straight-backed, bouquet-holding type of man…with a touch of cologne.

Arthur helps Melanie up and gives her the flowers. She looks a little hesitant, but accepts gingerly.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> And in a true gentleman style, Arthur helped her up and hurried her along.

He takes her arm and steers her off as she tries to keep up.

CUT TO:

SCENE 9 EXT. HOUSE EVENING

Melanie stands quietly behind Arthur as she hugs the bouquet.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> NARRATOR <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Then, evening came around and Arthur’s jitters were gone.

<span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> With a simple pat of the pocket and a slight flick of the wrist, Arthur produced the once troublesome key. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> Arthur confidently takes out the keychain from his suit pocket and holds it up. Melanie is surprised and recognizes that it is her heart necklace with the house key on it. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> It was chained to the necklace next to Melanie’s heart. Neither of them was getting away. <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"> And with a click and a push, the happy couple entered a new chapter of their lives.

Arthur effortlessly opens the door and holds it open for her. She happily takes his hand and they go inside. The door closes.