THE FINAL ROUND

By G.W. Allison

Story by G.W. Allison & Chuck Grady

03/01/2020

[email protected] 248.821.2093 1 BLACK 1

As the MUFFLED SOUND OF A CROWD GROWS, the following SLOWLY FADES INTO VIEW:

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night. - Dylan Thomas -

2 EXT. OMAHA AUDITORIUM - NIGHT 2

A cold autumn night, parking lot full, people press to get inside, yellow lights show the way. An owl perched atop a streetlight as it gazes upon the auditorium. The MUFFLED SOUND OF THE CROWD GROWS.

SUPER: 1923 - Omaha, Nebraska

3 INT. OMAHA AUDITORIUM - NIGHT 3

Every seat filled, a WALL OF NOISE. Venders up and down the aisles. In the center of the masses, a boxing ring, post undercard, lit up for a main event. The crowd STOMPS THE STANDS. They’ve waited long enough.

At the entrance to a tunnel, police guard the way and look on nervously.

4 INT. OMAHA AUDITORIUM, HALLWAY - NIGHT 4

JACK REDDY, 50s, hurries the best he can, a slight limp, too old for this shit, fighting the gray to the end. He goes from light to darkness through the evenly spaced overhead lights. The WALL OF NOISE chases after him.

Reddy hits a door, enters the...

5 INT. OMAHA AUDITORIUM, MISKE DRESSING ROOM - NIGHT 5

Reddy does a quick scan of the empty room. A terry cloth robe on a table, boxing gloves with yellow lightning bolts inked on the cuffs next to the robe, no fighter. He hits a door to the...

6 INT. OMAHA AUDITORIUM, BATHROOM - NIGHT 6

Urinal, sinks, three stalls. The VIOLENT SOUNDS OF A MAN VOMITING comes from the furthest stall. Reddy knocks lightly on the stall door. 2.

REDDY Billy, it’s time.

BATHROOM STALL

BILLY MISKE, 29, boxing trunks, taped hands, vomits into the toilet, every muscle in his body tense. He gasps and groans then--

BILLY In a minute.

BATHROOM

Reddy, a look of concern, goes to say something, but changes his mind and exits.

BATHROOM STALL

Billy, catches his breath, hunched over the commode, wipes his mouth. He stands and exits the stall.

BATHROOM

Billy drinks from the sink faucet, splashes water on his face. He studies his gaunt face in the mirror, the WALL OF NOISE penetrates the bathroom walls.

The SOUND OF HIS BEATING HEART... Faster, faster, faster... His eyes deep into memories...

7 EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY 7

A clear sunny day, the road cuts through grassy meadows, knotty pines and oaks. CICADAS BUZZ, a deer nibbles at grass near the trees. The deer’s ears twitch, and its head snaps upright, looks off into the distance.

SUPER: 1913, Somewhere in Wisconsin

A LOW RUMBLE, but too far off to make it out. The deer makes a break for it and it’s gone.

BILLY MISKE

On a red Indian motorcycle, a trail of dust in its wake along the country road. It’s full throttle, rip and roar, Billy leans forward, goggles protect his eyes, the wind plasters his hair. He’s all in.

The bike roars by the tree line where the deer was, hits a curve without slowing and kicks gravel and dirt. 3.

8 EXT. BARNYARD - DAY 8

Motor cars parked, horses and wagons mixed among them. People hurry to a large barn. The SOUND OF FIGHTING AND CHEERING comes from the barn.

A younger Jack Reddy leans against a jalopy, smokes a cigar, top of the world, eyes fresh and alive, but impatient.

He HEARS THE INDIAN in the distance and perks up, tosses the cigar into the dirt. Reddy grabs a pair of boxing gloves from the car and goes to meet Billy.

Billy skids to a stop, dust billows. He climbs off, removes his goggles, a youthful, Midwestern ruggedness. Reddy is there when he turns, checks his pocket watch.

REDDY They’re still going at it, but it ain’t gonna last.

Billy walks with Reddy, takes off his shirt, every muscle has a beginning and an end. Reddy helps him with the gloves.

9 INT. BARN - DAY 9

FARMERS, FIELD HANDS, ROUGHNECKS gathered around a makeshift ring, a patch of dirt roped off. In the middle, TWO FIGHTERS hammer each other, exhausted and bloody. It’s illegal and brutal. Bare knuckles. The CROWD CHEERS.

Billy and Reddy enter as the KO punch is delivered. The loser is quickly carried out as the winner takes in the victory. A MAN as round as he is tall, overdressed for the occasion, approaches Billy and Reddy.

ROUND MAN No time to warm up, kid. (meaning the gloves) And you won’t need those.

Billy and Reddy exchange looks then Reddy helps Billy take off the gloves. Billy slugs himself in the chin a few times, hard and violent. The Round Man gives pause.

BILLY I’m ready.

The Round Man cocks an eyebrow then grabs Billy and pulls him into the ring. Reddy eagerly rubs his hands together. 4.

ROUND MAN Yes, sir! Yes, sir! Yes, sir! It’s time for the main event! The kid, Billy--

REDDY --The Saint Paul Thunderbolt!

The Round Man gives Reddy a look then--

ROUND MAN The Saint Paul Thunderbolt, taking on a man that needs no introduction. With 52 KOs! The undefeated, one and only, a name feared throughout the land, Big Jake Manohan!

The crowd parts as a monster of a man, JAKE MANOHAN, lumbers to the ring. He enters, a good twenty pounds heavier than Billy and six inches taller.

ROUND MAN (CONT'D) (to Billy) Good luck, kid. The Round Man hurries out as Manohan lunges for Billy. The fight is on, ready or not.

Billy takes a shot to the jaw and he falls back against the ropes. The crowd pushes him back.

Manohan misses. Billy is too slippery.

Reddy calm and cool as the Round Man sidles up to him.

ROUND MAN (CONT'D) You wanted a fight.

REDDY Just as long as you cover the bet.

ROUND MAN (pats his shirt pocket) I don’t think it’s going anywhere.

A BURST FROM THE CROWD and the Round Man’s eyes go to the action.

Billy works Manohan’s body hard, vicious and fast, Manohan a ball of confusion and pain. Billy sets him up, then rams an uppercut to the jaw.

Manohan’s arms windmill as he teeters back and hits the dirt. The crowd silently looks upon their fallen hero. 5.

Billy, blood and sweat, satisfied rage on his face, eyes the crowd. They’re stunned by the David who slew their giant. Then they ERUPT INTO CHEERS.

Reddy holds out his hand and the Round Man begrudgingly slaps money into it.

10 INT. A MAIN STREET SALOON - DAY 10

Reddy counts out cash on the bar, two piles. Billy, a cut above the brow, eyeballs women.

Reddy slides Billy’s share to him and Billy pockets it as he exchanges smiles with a YOUNG LADY on her way to a table.

REDDY I’m workin’ on somethin’ big.

BILLY Like what?

REDDY Don’t worry ‘bout it. Big. Let me do the worryin’. That’s what you pay me for.

BILLY Oh, that’s what I pay you for?

REDDY Yeah. That and my charmin’ personality. (checks pocket watch) Hit the road now and we’ll be back in St. Paul before dark.

Billy watches the Young Lady sit with a DANDY FELLOW.

BILLY You go ahead. I’m gonna stick around a bit.

REDDY In this town?

BILLY Sometimes, you gotta take a chance, Jack. Never know how things might end. 6.

REDDY (belches) Yeah, well, I gotta see a man ‘bout a horse... Tomorrow. Don’t be late.

Reddy exits as Billy gazes upon the woman. The dandy works the stink-eye in Billy’s direction.

11 INT. GYM - DAY 11

BOXERS, all shapes and sizes, the RHYTHM OF SPEED BAGS, ROPES, AND HEAVY BAGS mixed with the GRUNTS AND GROANS so thick you can smell the testosterone.

Reddy works with a young fighter in a practice ring. Billy enters, still in last night’s clothes.

REDDY You’re late. Four hours! (sees Billy yawn) Time you get in, last night?

BILLY (checks pocket watch) Fifteen minutes ago.

REDDY (to fighter) Take a break.

Reddy hops down from the ring and notices a new cut below Billy’s eye. He presses it with his thumb and Billy pulls away.

REDDY (CONT'D) Her fella give that to ya?

Billy shakes his head “no” and holds back a smile.

BILLY She got me with her ring.

REDDY Oh, baby, you’re a smooth talker. Might think about settlin’ down.

Billy shrugs it off.

REDDY (CONT'D) Go home. Get some rest. You’ll need it.

Reddy allows a pregnant pause. 7.

BILLY What?

REDDY Oh, I don’t know. Maybe I got your first professional fight or somethin’ like that.

Reddy beams and they both laugh. Billy lets out a yelp so loud the gym stops for a beat.

BILLY Who? When?

REDDY Still ironin’ out the details, but it looks like a fella named Joe Christie next month.

BILLY Never heard of him.

REDDY It’s okay. He never heard of you, neither. I’ll see you, tomorrow. And don’t be late this time. (to fighter) Let’s get at it!

Reddy climbs back into the ring. Billy gives a small fist pump, nods to other fighters. Reddy watches him proudly as Billy exits, with pep in his step.

12 EXT. GYM - DAY 12

Billy exits the gym and runs into a young woman, MARIE PREBALICK. She carries a folder stuffed with music sheets and drops it, paper flies in the wind.

MARIE Oh, no! No! No!

Billy pushes back his hat and smiles at Marie on her knees. She shuffles loose sheets into the folder.

BILLY Sorry about that.

MARIE Sorry? You should be more mindful. Or you could just stand there smiling like an idiot.

Billy stoops to help, picks up a sheet and reads it. Marie snatches it away and stuffs it into the folder. 8.

She looks at the rest carried away in the wind into street traffic and she sighs heavily.

MARIE (CONT'D) Splendid. Just splendid.

Billy, to Marie’s surprise, walks into traffic, holds up his hand to stop cars.

MARIE (CONT'D) Are you crazy?

TIRES SCREECH as Billy confidently picks up every sheet of paper. DRIVERS SHOUT AND HORNS HONK.

He comes back to Marie and hands over the rest. Their fingers touch briefly, a moment of electricity.

BILLY I think that’s all of it.

Marie puts the sheets back in the folder.

MARIE Thank you. BILLY I’m Billy Miske.

MARIE You say that like it means something.

Her eyes meet his, the first time she really looked at him, intense and transfixed. She swallows hard then--

MARIE (CONT'D) Well, Mr. Miske, thank you... again.

Marie walks down the sidewalk. Billy watches her.

BILLY Hey, you wanna have dinner with me?

MARIE (over her shoulder) I don’t eat with strangers.

BILLY We don’t have to eat.

She stops and turns, folder held tightly to her bosom. Marie looks at Billy incredulously and Billy gives her a lopsided smile. 9.

13 EXT. ST. PAUL - MORNING 13

The sun rises over the city, bright like the town’s future. The Mississippi cuts through her, the life and future of everything she holds.

14 INT. GYM - DAY 14

A busy gym. Billy works out on his back with a medicine ball.

REDDY Fifty! All right.

Billy exhausted, drenched in sweat.

REDDY (CONT'D) Let’s hit the bag. Three rounds. All you got.

Billy goes to a heavy bag, EACH HIT A THUNDERCLAP. The other boxers can’t help but notice.

REDDY (CONT'D) You bring that to the ring and this Christie fella will piss blood for a year.

Billy lets the comment go by him, lightens up on the bag.

BILLY Met a girl, yesterday.

REDDY Oh, yeah. That’s nice. Hit the bag.

BILLY I think she might like me.

REDDY We all know you’re a regular Romeo. Can we get back to work now?

Billy slams a hammer into the bag and the gym stops briefly. Reddy pinches a smile.

15 EXT. THEATER - DAY 15 Billy bounces down the steps of the gym and makes his way along the sidewalk. PIANO MUSIC plays from a theater. He stops to listen and hears SINGING. Billy enters. 10.

16 INT. THEATER - CONTINUOUS 16

A JANITOR sweeps the back of an otherwise empty theater. Marie works a song on stage as a DIRECTOR shouts from the dark. Billy watches from the back of the room.

DIRECTOR Stop! Stop! Stop! Marie, darling, pick up the tempo, please. You’re behind. This isn’t a funeral dirge.

The piano picks it up from the top and Marie sings. Billy watches, smiles as she hits the sweet notes. The Janitor passes by and Billy grabs his arm.

BILLY Hey, pal, you know her?

JANITOR Her? Yeah, everybody does. Marie Prebalick.

BILLY She somebody or something?

JANITOR I just told ya.

Billy gives him a look then back to Marie singing.

JANITOR (CONT'D) You s’pose to be in here?

BILLY Yeah.

The Janitor gives Billy a look and exits. Billy is mesmerized by Marie.

17 EXT. THEATER - DAY 17

Marie exits the theater.

BILLY (O.S.) You’re good.

She stops, turns to see Billy along the wall, his hat pushed down over his eyes. Billy looks up from under his hat and smiles. Marie smirks, turns and walks away.

Billy quickly follows after her. 11.

BILLY (CONT'D) I mean it. You’re really good.

MARIE Thank you, Mister...

BILLY Billy. Billy Miske, remember? I was the one--

MARIE --Oh, I didn’t forget that. I just forgot your name.

Marie picks up the pace. Billy stays with her.

BILLY So, uh, I was thinking about that dinner invite.

MARIE Well, you can stop thinking about it. I’m not interested.

Billy stops dead as Marie continues. BILLY Oh, come on now. You don’t have to lie.

Marie stops and turns, eyebrow raised.

MARIE Excuse me?

BILLY Not even a little curious? Just a smidgen?

MARIE Who are you?

Billy holds out his hands as if presenting.

BILLY I’m Billy Miske.

Marie rolls her eyes, turns and walks away.

BILLY (CONT'D) I’ll see you around, Marie Prebalick.

MARIE Please, don’t. 12.

Billy smiles then whistles to himself, turns and walks in the opposite direction.

18 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER - NIGHT 18

It’s a packed house. A JUGGLER works his act in front of the curtain to a displeased crowd.

SUPER: Superior, Wisconsin

SUPER: Miske vs. Christie

19 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER, BACKSTAGE - CONTINUOUS 19

Billy and Reddy sit on the edge of the boxing ring, BOOS AND HISSES on the other side of the curtain.

20 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER - CONTINUOUS 20

The Juggler finishes his act and the crowd pelts him with vegetables.

21 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER, BACKSTAGE - CONTINUOUS 21

The Juggler hurries through the curtain, covered in vegetables, panicked. Billy and Reddy watch in amusement.

JUGGLER Well, the animals are out, tonight! They’re all yours.

EMCEE (O.S.) And now for a special treat--

BOOS and HISSES.

22 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER - CONTINUOUS 22

The EMCEE, straw boater hat, the whole get up, dodges vegetables.

EMCEE Miss Marie Prebalick.

23 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER, BACKSTAGE - CONTINUOUS 23

Billy’s eyes light up as the Emcee slides through the curtain and brushes off lettuce. 13.

24 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER, SIDE STAGE - CONTINUOUS 24

Marie nervously stands by.

EMCEE (O.S.) Hey, sweetheart, get out there!

She takes a deep breath, closes her eyes, then exhales, and steps out onto the stage.

25 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER, BACKSTAGE - CONTINUOUS 25

Billy hops down from the ring and hurries to the side stage.

26 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER - CONTINUOUS 26

The crowd’s BOOS AND HISSES SIMMER as Marie steps into the light, her beauty captures the audience. She waits for complete silence.

Marie nods to the orchestra pit and a PIANO PLAYS SOFTLY. SHE SINGS “ALWAYS CHASING RAINBOWS” and it’s unforgettable.

27 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER, SIDE STAGE - CONTINUOUS 27

Billy smiles broadly, mesmerized once again. He looks oddly out of place in his terry cloth robe and boxing gloves.

REDDY (O.S.) Psst! Psst! Billy!

Billy sees Reddy wave him over, another fighter, JOE CHRISTIE, stands near him. He nods and goes back to watching Marie sing a few more bars then goes to Reddy.

28 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER - CONTINUOUS 28

Marie belts out the final bars and the CROWD ERUPTS INTO ROARS OF APPROVAL. She bows, blows kisses, and exits stage left as the Emcee enters from stage right. The CHEERS TURNS TO BOOS.

EMCEE All right! All right! 14.

29 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER, BOXING RING - LATER 29

Christie jabs, Billy easily dodges, the CROWD BOOS. Billy spots Marie watching from side stage. Christie nails Billy and he teeters to the ropes. Christie is on him, but Billy ties him up.

BILLY (to Marie) Dinner? With me?

SIDE STAGE

Marie looks around, embarrassed. She points to herself.

BOXING RING

BILLY (CONT'D) (to Marie) Yeah! You! Dinner?

Marie shakes her head and mouths “no.”

MISKE CORNER

REDDY You gonna hug him or fight him?

BOXING RING

The ref breaks up Billy and Christie. Billy dances around, smiles at Marie. Christie pursues.

Billy gets to the corner closest to Marie as Christie throws some hooks. Billy dodges, hits Christie with a combination, dances out, winks at Marie. She laughs. The CROWD BOOS.

MISKE CORNER

Reddy nervously checks the audience.

BOXING RING

Christie pursues and Billy sees Marie walk away. Christie takes a swing, Billy ducks, comes back with an uppercut that nails Christie. Knockout.

MISKE CORNER

The CROWD BOOS AND CHEERS as Billy comes to the corner. BILLY Help me with these.

Reddy helps Billy off with the gloves. 15.

REDDY Well, that wasn’t exactly a show.

BILLY I won.

Reddy gets the gloves off and Billy climbs out of the ring, heads to the...

SIDE STAGE

Billy stops the Emcee before he goes out.

BILLY (CONT'D) Where’d she go?

EMCEE Who? (Billy takes off) Coulda stretched it out some!

The Emcee swallows hard as the CROWD BOOS LOUDER.

30 EXT. ALLEY - NIGHT 30 Marie, done for the night, walks down the alley. A door swings open from the theater and Billy emerges in boxing shorts and taped hands.

BILLY Hey! Marie!

He hops over the railing into the alleyway. Marie bewildered, tries not to laugh at the same time. Billy is there, enthused and confident.

MARIE You know, you keep using my name, but I don’t remember ever giving it to you.

BILLY Marie Prebalick. Everybody knows you.

She eyes him suspiciously. They stand there in awkward silence. Finally, Marie walks away. Billy catches up to her.

BILLY (CONT'D) Hey, uh, so come on. Dinner with me. No funny business. 16.

MARIE I told you I don’t eat with strangers.

BILLY I’m Billy Miske and you’re Marie Prebalick. There. No longer strangers. So, how about dinner?

MARIE You’re going to keep bothering me, aren’t you?

BILLY Some women would find it charming.

MARIE Well, I don’t.

BILLY Yes, you do.

MARIE No, I don’t. I think you’re a nuisance.

She looks at him as he stays with her, bothered.

MARIE (CONT'D) And stubborn.

BILLY Thanks.

MARIE That wasn’t a compliment.

Billy stops.

BILLY What can I do to change your mind?

Marie turns, but keeps walking.

MARIE I’m a busy woman. Three shows a night, all week, Mr. Miske. If you can stop time, I’m all yours.

She turns back, hides her infatuation. BILLY Is that all?

Billy goes to shove his hands in pockets that aren’t there and smiles brightly, rocks on his heels. 17.

31 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER, STAGE - NIGHT 31

Marie FINISHES THE LAST FEW BARS OF “ALWAYS CHASING RAINBOWS” TO A ROUND OF APPLAUSE. The Emcee comes out as Marie takes a bow.

EMCEE Marie Prebalick, everyone!

32 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER, AUDIENCE - NIGHT 32

Billy is the only one that stands and enthusiastically applauds. He then exits the row.

33 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER, STAGE - NIGHT 33

Marie blows kisses and exits stage left. The Emcee takes center stage.

EMCEE That little lady is here all week. Tell your friends. Now for a real special treat. The Amazing Professor Cornwallis!

The CROWD BOOS.

34 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER, BACKSTAGE - NIGHT 34

The Emcee enters backstage and runs into Billy, stops him.

EMCEE Oh, well, if it isn’t one punch and done Miske. Thanks, but no thanks.

BILLY Yeah, whatever you say, pal.

Billy squeezes by him and catches up with Marie as she heads for her dressing room.

BILLY (CONT'D) Hey, Marie Prebalick! Fancy meeting you here.

She stops and hangs her head then turns with an annoyed look on her face.

Billy pushes his hat back, boyish and proud. 18.

MARIE People are going to start talking. And I will not be the subject of rumors and gossip.

Marie turns away and opens her dressing room door. Inside is a table for two, candlelight, dinner, wine.

BILLY Hell, Marie, they’re already talking.

Marie bites her lower lip, keeps her back to Billy.

35 INT. SUPERIOR THEATER, MARIE’S DRESSING ROOM - NIGHT 35

Marie watches as Billy pours her a glass of wine, kills the bottle. Candles flicker between them, plates with scraps of food. He raises his glass. Marie does the same.

BILLY To stopping time.

Marie pinches a smile. They clink glasses and drink.

MARIE You are incorrigible, Mr. Miske.

BILLY A hopeless romantic.

MARIE A stubborn mule.

BILLY Whatever it takes.

Billy winks and takes another drink.

Marie thoughtfully gazes upon Billy.

MARIE You are a unique man, Billy Miske.

BILLY This is a compliment.

MARIE It is.

Marie drinks and Billy now thoughtfully gazes upon her. She finishes her glass.

MARIE (CONT'D) So, now what? 19.

Billy checks his pocket watch.

BILLY You have a show in five minutes and I have a mess to clean up.

MARIE I mean after that.

A devilish smile crosses Billy’s face.

36 EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - NIGHT 36

Billy races his red Indian, a trail of dust in its wake. Marie holds on tightly, laughs.

MARIE Can you go faster?

Billy leans forward and cranks the throttle, picks up speed. Marie screams excitedly.

37 EXT. MEADOW - NIGHT 37

The Indian stands out among the tall grass, the moon big and bright. Billy and Marie in a clearing on a blanket in each other’s arms, kissing.

Billy rolls off her. They lay there, heads touching, look up at the rolling clouds aglow in moonlight.

MARIE What do you want?

BILLY Everything.

Billy looks back at Marie and smiles. She smiles back, but it carries a sadness with it.

MARIE That’s what I was afraid of.

He brushes away a lock of hair from her face.

38 EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - NIGHT 38

Billy and Marie cruise along on the Indian. They turn off the road, up a private drive and come into a clearing where a... 20.

39 EXT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE - NIGHT 39

...sits not far from the lake. The cottage needs work, abandoned for some time, but its one time beauty is still there. Billy stops the bike and cuts the engine. He admires the cabin.

MARIE What is this place?

BILLY It’s going to be mine.

Billy climbs off the bike and helps Marie. They walk up to the cottage then around the porch to see the lake, moonlight reflects off the water.

BILLY (CONT'D) I figured I could turn it into a training camp. Boxing ring over there. A heavy bag could hang from that tree. It’s forty acres, plus the lake. Plenty of room to do anything I want.

Marie admires Billy. Billy walks toward the lake. Marie follows.

MARIE Why fighting?

BILLY I don’t know. I’m good, I guess. It’s an honest buck. Beats farming.

MARIE Is that all?

Billy shrugs, kicks at the ground. Marie turns her face to the moon, closes her eyes.

MARIE (CONT'D) I’ve always wanted to sing. Someday, I’ll be on Broadway.

BILLY Dreams make the world go ‘round.

She looks at Billy. MARIE What are your dreams?

Billy thinks about if for a second then he looks at Marie. He’s unsure if he wants to share, but... 21.

BILLY Who’s the heavyweight champion of the world?

MARIE Jack Johnson.

BILLY Everybody knows his name. You didn’t even have to think about it. The most famous man in the world is the heavyweight champion and one day, it’s going to be me.

MARIE Is that all?

BILLY It’s everything.

Billy’s eyes go back to the lake and Marie admires him.

40 EXT. MARIE’S HOUSE - NIGHT 40

Billy slows the Indian to a stop and cuts the engine. Marie climbs off the back. That awkward long goodbye of two people that don’t want to say it.

Billy pulls her to him and kisses her. First, she tries to pull back, but then falls into him. Billy releases her and Marie, breathless, backs away.

MARIE This is fast.

BILLY We’re stopping time.

Marie looks back at the house as a curtain pulls back, someone peeks through.

MARIE I don’t know how my mother would feel about me riding a motorcycle.

Billy waves at the window and the curtain snaps shut. Marie laughs then the laugh wanes as she appears to ponder something.

MARIE (CONT'D) Are you a good man?

BILLY I think I am. Are you a good woman? 22.

MARIE I think I am.

Marie smiles, slowly backs away, then she quickly turns and heads to the house. Marie looks back at Billy one last time before she enters the house.

Billy exhales nervous energy, pedal starts the Indian, and rips down the road.

41 EXT. CHURCH - DAY 41

The church doors burst open, reveals Mr. and Mrs. Billy Miske. Friends and family cheer as they descend the stairs. Reddy pats Billy on the back as Billy opens the door of a car for Marie.

REDDY Just remember, it’s a honeymoon, not a retirement.

Billy gives Reddy a salute then climbs into the car and drives away.

42 EXT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE - DAY 42

The morning sun rises above the lake. Billy and Marie’s car parked out front, the “Just Married” sign still on the back, cans tied to the bumper.

Clothing, shoes, trail up to the porch.

43 INT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE, LIVING ROOM - DAY 43

Billy and Marie snuggled in a hammock, the afterglow of making love. Boxes are scattered around and the cottage is need of repair.

Marie holds up her wedding band, admires it.

BILLY Mrs. Billy Miske.

They kiss then Marie turns away, almost rocks them out of the hammock. They laugh as Billy tries to steady it.

MARIE Don’t let me fall.

BILLY What are you doing? 23.

She comes back with a shoebox wrapped in plain brown paper and places it on Billy’s chest.

BILLY (CONT'D) What’s this?

MARIE Open it.

Billy gives her a look and unwraps the box then opens it. Inside is a pair of boxing gloves, yellow lightning bolts inked on the cuffs.

MARIE (CONT'D) I had them made for you. You know, the Saint Paul Thunderbolt.

BILLY Yeah, I got it. Thank you. I love them.

They kiss.

44 INT. ST. PAUL AUDITORIUM - NIGHT 44 A good crowd, boxing ring lit up for the main event, two fighters, Billy Miske and JACK DEMPSEY.

SUPER: May 3, 1918, St. Paul Auditorium

SUPER: Miske vs. Dempsey

RINGSIDE

The press corps types and writes feverishly as the two fighters pound each other.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 (V.O.) Miske came into tonight’s fight 16 knockouts to Dempsey’s 26 and is making a go at it for number 17.

MISKE CORNER

Reddy mimics Billy’s moves.

REDDY Stay on him!

BOXING RING Billy has Dempsey against the ropes, hammers his body. Dempsey ties him up and the REF breaks it up. 24.

Billy, center ring, beckons Dempsey to come at him. Dempsey moves, jukes and jives, then slams a right into Billy’s head. Billy counters and the BELL RINGS.

MISKE CORNER

Reddy towels off Billy.

REDDY (CONT'D) You got this, kid. No doubt about it.

BOXING RING

The ANNOUNCER stands center ring.

ANNOUNCER Ladies and gentlemen, we have a draw!

The CROWD BOOS. The BOOS GROW AND TURN TO LAUGHTER.

45 INT. BAR - NIGHT 45

DEMPSEY ROARS WITH LAUGHTER as he throws an arm around an even-keeled Billy. They’re both bruised.

DOC KEARNS, Dempsey’s dapper manager, and Reddy are at the table with them, choking down drinks as the place busts at the seams. Wait staff hustles.

DEMPSEY I thought I had you in the third.

KEARNS That’s your problem. You think too much.

DEMPSEY Easy, Doc, or I’ll think too much on that melon of yours.

Dempsey shows him his fist. Kearns shrugs it off and lights a cigar.

REDDY Well, it’s in the hands of the papers now. That’s not good for anyone. DEMPSEY Hell, Jack, Billy and I are top contenders. Forces to be reckoned with. (MORE) 25. DEMPSEY (CONT'D) Why I wouldn’t be surprised if one of us is champion of the world one day... Just as long as that someone is me.

Dempsey narrows his eyes at Billy, a devilish smile sneaks across his face. Billy raises his glass.

BILLY My fate cries out, and makes each petty artery in this body as hardy as the Nemean lion’s nerve.

Everyone stares blankly at Billy then bursts into laughter.

DEMPSEY I’d second that, but I don’t know what the hell he just said.

More laughter from the table then Dempsey jabs Billy’s arm. Billy gives him the corner of his eye. Dempsey grabs Billy’s shoulder, shakes him and laughs. A BAND LEADER takes the small stage.

BAND LEADER Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Miss Sophie Lee.

A rousing applause as a vibrant songstress, innocently tempting, glitz and glimmered for the packed house, takes center stage - SOPHIE LEE. She SINGS A SULTRY VERSION OF “AFTER YOU’VE GONE.”

DEMPSEY My-oh-me-oh-my.

Billy jerks his shoulder away, but Dempsey is too fixated on Sophie to react. Reddy leans over to Billy.

REDDY Easy. Fight’s over.

Billy allows a cooler head to prevail. Sophie milks the song, stills the room. Dempsey leans over to Billy, his eyes still on Sophie.

DEMPSEY Christ almighty, Thunder, this where you found your bearcat, too?

That did it. Billy jumps on Dempsey, chairs scatter as they wrestle to the floor. The band and Sophie don’t miss a beat. Kearns and Reddy pull them apart. 26.

Then just as quick, the room settles to watch Sophie as Billy and Dempsey sit back down with Kearns and Reddy.

DEMPSEY (CONT'D) The hell crawled up your ass?

KEARNS You two are gonna get us booted.

REDDY (to Billy) What’s the matter with you?

It takes a beat, but Billy collects himself then he holds out his hand. Dempsey hesitates. Kearns slaps Dempsey’s arm and they finally shake hands.

REDDY (CONT'D) All right! We gonna eat, or what?

Sophie finishes to a ROUND OF APPLAUSE. She takes a bow and walks off stage, passes near Dempsey. Dempsey reaches out to her.

DEMPSEY Dolly, you know any lullabies? I have trouble sleeping.

Sophie stops, being coy.

SOPHIE I think you’re sleepwalking now. Play nice, boys.

She gives Dempsey a light double tap on the chin. Dempsey fixes his jacket, shrugs it off.

DEMPSEY That just might be the future Mrs. Dempsey, fellas.

The table laughs. Billy stands, tosses money down.

BILLY I gotta go home.

DEMPSEY Hey, don’t sweat it. Harmless fun.

BILLY No, it’s not that. I’m domesticated now, boys.

Billy exits. 27.

DEMPSEY (to Reddy) You need to put that dog on a leash.

Dempsey stews as Reddy barely hides his pride.

46 INT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE - NIGHT 46

Half hung wallpaper, sawhorses in another room beyond the living room. Marie sits at an upright piano and tinkers with a song, writes on a music sheet. In the middle of the floor, on a rug, a baby chews on a rattler, BILLY JUNIOR.

The SOUND OF A MOTORCYCLE IDLES TO A STOP OUTSIDE.

MARIE Daddy’s home.

Billy enters and Marie meets him with a kiss. She takes his face, sees the bandage on his brow.

MARIE (CONT'D) Your face. Your beautiful face. BILLY That’s a first.

MARIE Did you win?

BILLY It was a draw. Newspapers will give the verdict.

She kisses him again.

MARIE Are you hungry? I made dumplings.

Marie exits to the kitchen and Billy gets down on the rug with Billy Junior.

BILLY Hey, buddy.

Billy Junior GURGLES AND COOS as Billy kisses his head. Marie enters and lays next to them. MARIE It’s heating up.

BILLY How was he, today? 28.

MARIE Like an angel.

BILLY How are you?

MARIE Tired. You want to hear something?

Marie goes to the piano.

MARIE (CONT'D) It’s not done, but...

She plays her song, beautifully melodic. Billy proudly watches her. When she stops--

MARIE (CONT'D) It’s getting there.

BILLY Well, if you ask me, I think it’s there.

Marie smiles at Billy.

47 INT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE, BEDROOM - NIGHT 47

Billy undresses as Marie enters.

MARIE He’s asleep.

She sees bruises on his lower back and goes to him.

MARIE (CONT'D) Billy, my god.

Billy gets an angle on his back in a mirror.

BILLY It’s not as bad as it looks.

MARIE It looks horrible. You should go see Dr. Hereford.

Billy climbs into bed.

BILLY If I went to the doctor every time I had a bruise, I wouldn’t have a dime to my name.

Marie climbs into bed and snuggles up to Billy. 29.

MARIE I worry. That’s all.

BILLY I know. (kisses Marie) Think of them as beauty marks. If you want, you can kiss them.

MARIE Stop.

She snuggles closer to him, safe and secure.

48 EXT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE - DAY 48

Billy hammers a shingle on the roof during a cool spring day. He finishes a nail and stretches his back. A flutter in a tree catches his eye. He looks and sees an owl. They appear to lock eyes.

He hammers a new nail despite the odd encounter. But he misses the nail and almost slides off the roof from the momentum. He shakes it off, then cringes as he feels his back.

Marie exits the cottage.

MARIE Billy? Lunch.

Billy carefully climbs down from the roof. The owl watches him.

49 INT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE, DINING ROOM - DAY 49

Billy enters and sits as Marie enters from the kitchen with their lunch. Billy Junior sits in a high chair.

BILLY Turn on the radio, hon.

Marie sets the plates down, exits and switches the radio on in the other room. She re-enters and sits at the table. 30.

RADIO (FILTERED) In the news: Provost Marshall General Enoch Crowder, director of the Selective Services Act, has decreed that by July 1st, 1918, all draft-eligible men employed in non-essential occupations must apply for work directly related to the war or prepare for military service as the war in Europe rages on. “Every man, of draft age at least, must work or fight,” General Crowder wrote. Baseball is reeling from the pressure and has petitioned the United States government for a reprieve in order to finish the season. Secretary of War Baker has yet to comment. (pause) German forces...

Billy sees the concern written on Marie’s face.

BILLY I’m working on something.

The BABY YAMMERS as Billy takes Marie’s hand and she manages a weak smile.

50 INT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE, BATHROOM - NIGHT 50

Billy vomits into the toilet. He eases into a hot bath and carefully settles back then coughs a few times, cringes in pain with each cough. There’s A KNOCK.

HALLWAY

Marie stands at the bathroom door. She knocks lightly.

BILLY (O.S.) Come in.

BATHROOM

Marie enters and sits on the edge of the tub and rubs Billy’s forehead with a washcloth.

She dabs his bruised cheeks and rings hot water on his shoulders. Billy reaches up and holds her hand.

BILLY (CONT'D) Maybe give the doc a call. 31.

51 INT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE, LIVING ROOM - DAY 51

DOCTOR HEREFORD wraps up his examination of Billy. A pensive Marie sits nearby on the couch.

HEREFORD I’d say you have some internal bruising, but I’ll have to run tests, too. Should be a few weeks or so.

BILLY I got bruises, Tom. You can bet on that.

HEREFORD Well, aside from the aches and pains, you appear healthy as a horse. Some rest will do you good.

MARIE Is that all, Dr. Hereford?

HEREFORD Until we know more. If there’s more to know.

Hereford gives Marie a reassuring smile.

52 EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY 52

Billy embraces Marie, Billy Junior in her arms, on the platform. A steam locomotive hisses next to them.

MARIE A three month road trip, Billy?

BILLY I gotta get out on the circuit. Do my part for the war effort or end up in the war.

MARIE What about--

BILLY --Doc Hereford, doesn’t know everything.

MARIE I’m sure he knows more than you.

The TRAIN WHISTLES. Billy kisses Marie then Billy Junior. He grabs his bag and jumps on the train. 32.

BILLY I’ll call every chance I get!

The train slowly pulls away. He blows Marie a kiss. Marie catches it then blows one back.

53 EXT. TRAIN - NIGHT 53

Smoke billows from the stack of steam locomotive cutting through the mountains of California.

54 INT. TRAIN - NIGHT 54

Billy and Reddy play cards in the dining car. Reddy lays down his cards.

REDDY Gin. (writes on a pad of paper) You owe me five dollars and twenty- five cents.

Billy throws down his cards.

BILLY I think you’re cheating me.

Reddy smiles and gathers up the cards and shuffles.

REDDY If you’re not cheating, you’re not trying.

BILLY Just deal the cards.

Reddy deals and they play as the conversation continues.

REDDY Course, you keep donating your purse for these fights to the Red Cross, Nuns for War, or whatever it is you think you should be doing, I’ll never see a dime.

BILLY Just doing my part, Jack.

REDDY I don’t think it’s what Uncle Sam had in mind. 33.

Reddy nods to an UNCLE SAM ARMY RECRUITMENT POSTER hanging in the dining car. Billy looks over then back to the card game.

BILLY Yeah, well, it’s what Uncle Sam gets. I got a family to think of. (lays down his cards.) Gin.

Reddy makes a face.

55 EXT. SAN FRANCISCO - NIGHT 55

The moonlight shimmers off the bay as the DISTANT SOUND OF A BOXING MATCH and A CROWD GROWS.

56 INT. CIVIC AUDITORIUM, BOXING RING - NIGHT 56

Dempsey takes a mitt to the face from WILLIE MEEHAN, but it does nothing to stagger Dempsey as he dances around a rather rotund Meehan. He throws jabs and treats it like a sparring match more than a prize fight.

RINGSIDE

Billy and Reddy watch the match from the front row. Billy nudges Reddy and points to TWO MEN sitting with each other, one wild looking and the other almost aristocratic.

BILLY Douglas Fairbanks.

REDDY Who’s the nut?

BILLY Harry Houdini.

REDDY Jesus.

The BELL RINGS.

BILLY Houdini says he can take a punch from anyone. Dempsey’s gonna change his mind. For charity, of course.

Reddy shakes his head. 34.

ANNOUNCER (O.S.) We have a split decision!

57 INT. CIVIC AUDITORIUM, PRESS ROOM - NIGHT 57

A small stage with a single microphone, Dempsey, Meehan, Houdini, and Fairbanks. The gallery full of PRESS. Billy, Reddy and Kearns stand to the side and watch.

SAN FRAN REPORTER #1 How do you feel, Jack?

DEMPSEY I feel great, because this is a great cause. My manager, Doc Kearns over there, tells me that tonight’s gate raised over eighteen thousand dollars for the naval training stations.

APPLAUSE.

SAN FRAN REPORTER #2 And your guests?

DEMPSEY Well, Mr. Houdini has graciously agreed to donate one thousand dollars for the privilege having me hit him as hard as I can.

Fairbanks leans into the microphone.

FAIRBANKS And I’m here to pick up the pieces.

The ROOM LAUGHS.

DEMPSEY That cost Mr. Fairbanks another thousand.

The ROOM LAUGHS AGAIN.

DEMPSEY (CONT'D) And let’s not forget that Harry Houdini’s death defying show runs next week in this very theater. SAN FRAN REPORTER #1 Do you think that tonight’s loss on points will hurt your chances for a title fight against Willard? 35.

DEMPSEY This was just an exhibition.

SAN FRAN REPORTER #1 But do you think it’ll hurt your chances? After all, some doubt that you have what it takes to go after a man like Willard.

The room quiets, Dempsey’s aggravation apparent.

BILLY (O.S.) That’s why he’s fighting me.

All eyes on Billy. The reporters burst into questions as flashbulbs pop.

58 INT. SAN FRANCISCO RESTAURANT - NIGHT 58

It’s late. Billy, Reddy, Dempsey, Kearns, Houdini and Fairbanks practically have the place to themselves. Remnants of a meal before them, glasses half full.

Kearns smokes a cigar and Fairbanks lights a cigarette. Houdini has two empty plates before him, licked clean.

REDDY Can’t believe you ate all that after Jack put his fist in your gut.

HOUDINI Pain is merely an illusion.

Houdini does some slight of hand, impresses Reddy.

REDDY How’d you do that? How’d he do that?

They all laugh. Fairbanks notices Billy staring at him and he smiles knowingly.

FAIRBANKS You’re a fan.

BILLY My wife and I have seen all your movies.

FAIRBANKS You like the comedies, eh?

BILLY I, uh, liked your book, too. 36.

FAIRBANKS So, you’re the one.

The table laughs.

DEMPSEY He’s being modest.

Fairbanks winks at Dempsey.

BILLY No, I thought it was, uh, it’s, uh... I think if you really want something... If you steel your resolve to be the person you believe yourself to be then you can... You can do anything. Nothing can stop you. Your book just confirmed it for me.

Everyone at the table gives Billy their undivided attention and Fairbanks is slightly embarrassed.

DEMPSEY Hell, maybe I should read this book.

They all laugh, except Fairbanks and Billy. Fairbanks nods his appreciation to Billy.

59 EXT. SAN FRANCISCO RESTAURANT - NIGHT 59

Houdini helps a drunk Fairbanks into a car as Billy, Reddy, Dempsey and Kearns watch with delight. Houdini shuts the door on Fairbanks and turns to Dempsey.

HOUDINI It was a pleasure, Mr. Dempsey. Next time, don’t hold back.

Houdini pats his stomach as Dempsey nods and smiles.

Fairbanks hangs out the window.

FAIRBANKS Billy Miske, you ever want to come to Hollywood, just say the word. Maybe do a picture... Yeah... Can you act?

Houdini pushes Fairbanks’s face back into the car.

HOUDINI Good night, gentlemen. 37.

Houdini bows then gets in the car and drives off.

BILLY Marie’s not gonna believe any of this.

Dempsey shakes his head in unbelief.

DEMPSEY I hit that bastard as hard as I could.

BILLY Well, that explains a lot.

Dempsey and Billy playfully square off, exchange jabs that just miss.

REDDY So, we’re on for November then?

KEARNS The buzz is Jack can get a shot at the title if he first gets by you.

REDDY (to Billy) Which means, you’re the logical choice when you beat Jack.

Dempsey and Kearns share a look.

KEARNS How are you handling this work or fight government hogwash?

BILLY I bought a farm that supplies food for the military.

REDDY Except he knows nothing about farming.

BILLY Minor detail. But I figured, while the crops grow, I can still fight.

DEMPSEY (to Kearns) Why didn’t you think of that?

Kearns shrugs.

DEMPSEY (CONT'D) He’s got me working the shipyards. 38.

KEARNS It’s good training.

Billy and Reddy share a look and smile.

REDDY Whoever wins this fight gets Willard then, right?

Kearns nods as Dempsey and Billy stare at each other.

REDDY (CONT'D) Okay, then. It’s settled.

60 INT. OLYMPIA ARENA, PHILADELPHIA - NIGHT 60

The CROWD BOOS AND CHEERS as Billy and Dempsey are tied up along the ropes, Dempsey gets a mitt in and Billy quickly hugs. Billy is exhausted and barely hangs on. Finally, the BELL RINGS.

MISKE CORNER

Billy gets to the corner, weak in the knees. Reddy is there. REDDY What’s the matter?

BILLY Get me outta here.

61 INT. OLYMPIA ARENA, MISKE DRESSING ROOM - NIGHT 61

Reddy helps Billy inside and onto a table. Billy breathes hard, cringes in pain, as he lays back.

BILLY Get the doc.

Reddy hurries out. Billy tries to control his breathing, squints at the light overhead, the MUFFLED SOUND OF THE CROWD beyond the door.

He turns to get a look at his back, the kidneys swollen and bruised.

BILLY (CONT'D) Jesus. Reddy returns with the DOCTOR. Billy vomits onto the floor. Reddy and the Doctor recoil. 39.

REDDY Ah, hell. Well do somethin’, goddammit!

The Doctor attends to Billy.

BILLY It’s my back, doc.

DOCTOR Okay, just roll to the side.

Billy shakes his head then jumps up and hurries to the bathroom. They HEAR HIM VOMIT. Then they HEAR HIM URINATE.

BILLY (O.S.) Think I’m pissing blood.

DOCTOR What color is it?

BILLY (O.S.) Dark.

Billy enters, staggers to the table, and lays back down. The Doctor presses his abdomen. DOCTOR Had any swelling or bloating?

BILLY Usually after a fight.

The doctor looks into this eyes, checks his ears, opens Billy’s mouth and looks. He checks Billy’s pulse.

DOCTOR (to Reddy) Have him see his personal physician when you get home. (to Billy) I assume you have a doctor?

BILLY Yeah, a real quack.

Billy laughs at his own joke, but it’s taken away by a shot of pain that causes him to cringe.

DOCTOR Put some ice on your back. That should take care of the swelling.

REDDY What about the cookies? 40.

DOCTOR Just make sure he drinks plenty of water. (to Billy) Don’t worry. I’ve seen worse. Just get a complete check-up with your doctor, okay?

REDDY Thanks, doc.

The Doctor exits and Billy presses his hands against his temples.

REDDY (CONT'D) I’ll get some ice.

62 INT. OLYMPIA ARENA, PRESS ROOM - NIGHT 62

Dempsey and Kearns at a table with microphones. The press corps silent. Everyone seems to be waiting for something.

Then the door opens and Billy and Reddy enter. Billy tries not to show it, but it’s apparent he’s hurting and moving slower. They sit at the table. DEMPSEY (to Billy) Thought you skipped out.

REDDY He’s got the shits.

Dempsey tries not to laugh.

KEARNS (to reporters) Well, now that everyone is here. Let’s get this over with.

PHILLY REPORTER #1 Jack, what’s your take on the fight?

DEMPSEY It was just my night.

PHILLY REPORTER #1 How about you, Billy? BILLY Jack hit me good and every one of them hurt. I’m happy I was able to go the full route. 41.

PHILLY REPORTER #2 Does this mean you’ll pursue Jess Willard for the title, Jack?

DEMPSEY It’s the logical next step. Willard can’t hide forever. He’ll have to defend his title sooner rather than later.

KEARNS I expect he prefers later.

The ROOM LAUGHS.

PHILLY REPORTER #1 Will Billy be making a move?

Dempsey and Kearns look to Billy and Reddy. Billy ponders it for a beat then--

BILLY It’s not out of the question.

Billy looks over at Dempsey and smiles as the REPORTERS ERUPT INTO FRANTIC QUESTIONS.

63 INT. DOCTOR HEREFORD’S OFFICE - DAY 63

Billy stares at a stuffed owl while alone in the office. He leans in to get a closer look.

Hereford enters and sits at his desk. He stares at Billy, who is staring at the stuffed owl.

HEREFORD Your blood pressure is too high. No more salt.

BILLY Ever?

HEREFORD Ever.

Billy finally looks away from the owl.

BILLY Where’d you get that?

HEREFORD I don’t remember. 42.

BILLY I got one around my place, comes out in the daytime. Strange.

Hereford smirks.

HEREFORD Just an owl.

BILLY I suppose so.

Hereford shuffles some papers, sighs, then folds his hands.

HEREFORD Billy, I thought I said to get some rest.

Billy goes to answer, but Hereford puts up his hand, stops him. He then pulls out a sheet of paper from a the stack and holds it up for Billy to see.

HEREFORD (CONT'D) I’ve been hanging on to this for five months. You wouldn’t return my calls.

BILLY Hell, Tom, all you had to do was stop by.

HEREFORD I did. You were always out of town. Manage to scare poor Marie every time I stopped by, though.

Hereford sits back, somber, thoughtful, gazes upon Billy with pity. Billy looks perplexed.

BILLY You gonna show me whatever that is in your hand, or are we going to play the guessing game?

He hands Billy the paper. Billy reads it then looks dumbfounded at Hereford.

64 INT. BOXING GYM - DAY 64 Billy works the practice ring. Reddy keeps time. Billy halfheartedly dances around, jukes and jives from an imaginary opponent. 43.

REDDY It’s shadow boxin’, not the waltz.

Billy throws a lazy one-two combination.

REDDY (CONT'D) Come on! Put some fire into it!

Billy sizzles out.

BILLY Time.

REDDY What the hell do you mean time? You got two minutes!

BILLY (takes some water) I’m not into it today, Jack.

REDDY That’s why you pay me. So, I can tell you to get into it. Now get into it! BILLY Thought I paid you to worry?

REDDY Don’t forget my charmin’ personality.

Billy isn’t amused and he climbs out of the ring.

BILLY Pick it up, tomorrow.

He heads for the locker room.

REDDY Billy! Billy!

65 INT. GYM, LOCKER ROOM - DAY 65

Billy, on a bench, unwraps his hands as Reddy enters.

REDDY What’s wrong with you, kid? BILLY We’ll pick it up tomorrow.

REDDY And what if tomorrow never comes. 44.

BILLY Then I guess it doesn’t really matter.

REDDY My point is you got to get it done today. You want to move up in rank? You want to get a shot at the big time? Then you gotta put in the work. You know that. Tomorrow don’t mean spit.

Billy stands and slams his fist into a locker.

BILLY You don’t think I know that!

Reddy is taken aback by Billy’s outburst. They glare at each other. Reddy’s no sap, though.

REDDY You wanna take a poke at me? Go ahead if you want. And you better make it a good one. But whatever it is, it ain’t gonna make you feel better.

Billy cools, shakes his head. He sits back down, head hangs low.

BILLY I don’t want to hit you, Jack.

Reddy sits next to him.

REDDY Then tell me what’s eatin’ ya, kid?

Billy fidgets with his hand wrap. Finally, he opens his locker and pulls out the paper that Hereford gave him and hands it to Reddy. Reddy reads it.

BILLY I’m dying.

Reddy snaps his eyes to Billy.

BILLY (CONT'D) Thought I was taking one too many heavy shots, you know. Turns out I have bad kidneys... Bright’s Disease.

REDDY Jesus. 45.

Reddy hands the paper back to Billy. Billy folds it and puts the paper back in the locker. They sit there in stunned silence then Reddy stands.

REDDY (CONT'D) Come on. Get dressed. We need a drink.

66 INT. BAR - DAY 66

Reddy and Billy at a table, half finished beers before them.

REDDY Kind of a hard secret to keep, don’t you think?

Billy shrugs, takes a sip of his beer.

BILLY What else can I do?

REDDY No offense, but I don’t think you have a choice. BILLY We all have choices.

REDDY Bullshit.

BILLY I gotta keep fighting. I got little ones. A family. It’s all I know. Marie on the other hand... I don’t know how I’m going to tell her.

REDDY Just tell it like it is.

BILLY Now that’s bullshit.

Reddy chuckles then wrestles with a thought.

REDDY If it’ll make it easier, I’ll help. Whatever that means. BILLY Thanks, Jack. 46.

67 EXT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE - DUSK 67

A golden sun reflects across a lake of glass.

68 INT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE, KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS 68

Billy and Marie fool around. He’s all hands. A BABY CRIES from the other room.

MARIE Billy! I have to get Douglas.

BILLY He’s all right.

He grabs a hold of her and they kiss passionately.

MARIE I love it when you’re home.

BILLY Wanna go to the bedroom?

MARIE Billy! Jack will be here any minute.

BILLY It’s a nice night. He can wait on the porch.

There’s A KNOCK at the front door.

MARIE He’s here!

She tries to break free. They laugh as she finally squirms from his arms.

MARIE (CONT'D) You’re bad.

She fixes her dress then calmly exits. Billy leans against the counter, the joy immediately replaced with grave anticipation.

69 INT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE, LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 69

Billy and Marie sit opposite Reddy in the living room in uncomfortable silence, post dinner coffee. Reddy checks his pocket watch.

REDDY I suppose I should-- 47.

BILLY --How ‘bout some wine?

Reddy snickers.

REDDY I was wonderin’ how long you were gonna hold out on me.

They laugh and Billy goes to get the wine.

MARIE Did you enjoy dinner?

REDDY It was good chicken. Thanks.

MARIE It was pheasant and thank the chef.

REDDY Get out of here.

Billy returns with glasses and a bottle of wine. He pops the cork and pours.

BILLY Got ‘em last week in that field across the road. (hands Reddy a glass) Someday, I’ll get Jack to go out with me.

REDDY Throw in booze and cigars and you got a deal.

They laugh. Reddy notices the upright piano in the corner.

REDDY (CONT'D) You still play?

MARIE Not as much as I used, too. Two boys-- Three boys.

She jabs Billy with her elbow. Billy and Reddy exchange glances, something between them. BILLY How ‘bout a song? 48.

MARIE The other two boys, they’re sleeping.

They sit there in silence. Reddy quickly finishes his wine.

REDDY I should be going anyway. (stands) Marie, I had a lovely evening. Thank you.

Marie raises her glass to him and Billy stands.

BILLY I’ll walk you out.

70 EXT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE - NIGHT 70

Billy walks Reddy to his car. They reach the car and Reddy turns and leans into Billy.

REDDY What the hell was that all about? I was sittin’ there all night with my thumb up my ass. Back problems, Billy?

BILLY It’s enough for now.

REDDY Yeah, except for the part about you dyin’ some day.

BILLY We all die, Jack.

REDDY Don’t be a wiseass.

BILLY Doc said I have five or six years.

REDDY If you stop fightin’. You act like it’s a lifetime!

Billy shrugs, cocks an eyebrow.

BILLY It is. It’s my lifetime.

Reddy holds his tongue, glares at Billy, then finally-- 49.

REDDY That little girl in there deserves to know what’s goin’ on. She deserves to know.

Reddy stares at Billy a long second, exasperated, then play-slaps Billy on the cheek. He gets in his car and drives away as Billy watches him go. An OWL HOOTS.

71 EXT. PARK - DAY 71

A perfect summer day. Family picnics, a man rows a boat for his sweetheart in the pond, an old man fishes.

Billy tosses pebbles into the pond. Marie, Billy Junior and a toddler, DOUGLAS, sit on a blanket nearby.

MARIE Why don’t you come and eat?

BILLY Not hungry.

MARIE Then come and sit with the boys while I eat.

Billy tosses a handful of pebbles at once then sits with Marie and the boys. He takes a sandwich from the basket.

MARIE (CONT'D) Not hungry, huh?

BILLY Well, if I’m going to sit here.

MARIE Thank you for gracing us with your presence, Lord Billy.

Billy tosses the sandwich into the basket. He lies back and cradles his head in his hands, stares up at the blue sky.

BILLY Not what I meant.

MARIE Your back seems to be doing better. Dr. Hereford say you can travel again?

BILLY It’s up to me. 50.

Billy gets an angle on her and smirks.

BILLY (CONT'D) What’s the matter? You afraid I’m getting lazy?

Marie leans over and kisses him on the forehead then lightly slaps his cheek.

MARIE No, I’m afraid you’re growing bored. And, frankly, when you’re bored, everyone suffers.

Billy smiles and watches the clouds.

BILLY Yeah, well, what else is there?

Marie simpers then pulls a paper from her handbag, unfolds it. She hands it to Billy, reveals the advertisement for a storefront in downtown St. Paul.

Billy cocks an eyebrow.

MARIE It’s seven-thousand square feet, plus office space, with large windows looking out on the street. I was going to wait for the right moment. I guess this is as good as any.

BILLY I don’t get it.

MARIE What do you think about getting into the automobile business? For when you’re home. Selling them, not making them.

Billy laughs and tosses the paper aside.

BILLY Motor cars? What do I know about motor cars?

MARIE What’s to know? Everybody is buying them. Can’t walk across the street without some nut running you over. Point is, we have enough saved to invest. 51.

BILLY That’s rainy day money.

Marie holds the paper up, lets the sun shine through the back. She lies next to Billy, cradles her head on his shoulder.

MARIE The showroom would be the first thing people see when passing. They’ll practically sell themselves. When you’re home, you won’t have to fight locally to keep us going. You can play businessman and actually rest.

Billy takes the paper, holds it up so they both can see.

72 INT. GYM - DAY 72

Billy shadow boxes, works his punches like a jackhammer, jukes and covers along the way. Sweat drips. Breathing grows harder. A cough rises from somewhere deep within.

He catches his breath and moves to skipping rope. A few jumps then cries of pain, grabs his back, doubles over, one knee on the ground. More coughing. He spits and notices blood; looks to make sure no one noticed.

73 INT. GYM, REDDY’S OFFICE/ROOM - DAY 73

Reddy reads a headline about Dempsey being the new heavyweight champion. There’s A KNOCK. Billy enters and takes the paper.

REDDY Should be you.

BILLY Shoulda, woulda, couldas.

Billy falls into a chair, tosses the paper aside.

REDDY What now? You’re not pregnant, are you?

Billy chuckles.

BILLY I’m making it official. Retiring. At least not fighting as much, out of towners, a few here and there, purse fights, you know. 52.

Reddy lets out a heavy sigh of relief.

REDDY I gotta tell you, I’m not a little relieved. I’m a lot relieved. You got heart, kid, but... Takin’ it easy is a start. What now?

74 EXT. MISKE MOTORS - DAY 74

Grand opening. “MISKE MOTORS” in brass above the door. Through the window a brand new Elgin. Billy and A.H. BADNALS cut a red ribbon at the door then shake hands. A small crowd gathered around applauds.

SUPER: November, 1919

BILLY We’re open for business!

75 INT. MISKE MOTORS, OFFICE - DAY 75

End of the party. Billy says goodbye to the last of the stragglers. Marie kisses him.

MARIE I have to pick up the boys from mother’s. Don’t stay too late.

BILLY In a bit.

Marie exits. Badnals stops and they both shake hands.

BADNALS We’re going to make a lot of money.

BILLY From your mouth to God’s ears, A.H.

All are gone. Billy looks at his new kingdom, though it’s somehow sad and lonely. He walks over to his desk and pulls out the Dempsey championship article and cuts out the headline.

Billy pins the headline on an empty corkboard and stands back, looks at it, all alone, top center. 53.

76 INT. MISKE MOTORS, BACKLOT - DAY 76

Billy rests his hands on the door of an Elgin while a CUSTOMER sits in the driver’s seat.

CUSTOMER How much, again?

BILLY Just thirteen hundred ninety-five and that’s a hell of a deal. I mean, look at the detail of this machine. These beauties are only matched by high priced European cars... For royalty.

The Customer looks impressed, but--

CUSTOMER Still, fourteen hundred dollars... I don’t know, Billy. Darla is gonna have a baby soon--

BILLY --All the more reason you’ll need the room. The Elgin Six will fit a family of five with room to grow.

The Customer works it out then goes to get out of the car, but Billy keeps a firm grip on the door.

BILLY (CONT'D) I’ll tell you what. How ‘bout I knock... two hundred off.

CUSTOMER Five.

BILLY Two twenty-five.

The customer does his best to hide a smile, but Billy sees right through him and opens the door.

77 INT. BILLY’S CAR - NIGHT 77

Billy drives after a long day at the dealership, his face long and tired. He stops at an intersection and looks over, sees the gym where he once trained, longs for it. A CAR HORN BEEPS, snaps Billy from his gaze. He waves to the car behind him and rumbles through the intersection. 54.

78 INT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE - NIGHT 78

The SOUND OF A CAR PULLS UP OUTSIDE, STOPS, AND SHUTS OFF. The front door opens and Billy enters to a quiet house. He enters the...

DINING ROOM

...and picks up a note on the table.

INSERT NOTE

“Dinner is in the oven. The chef misses you, but she’s gone to bed.”

BACK TO SCENE

Billy smiles, sighs lightly, then enters the kitchen.

79 INT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE, LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 79

Billy sits in a chair, eats leftovers, listens to a LOW PLAYING RADIO.

80 INT. MISKE MOTORS, SERVICE GARAGE - DAY 80

LLOYD, a mechanic, leans against an Elgin, the hood open, tools everywhere. He wipes grease from his hands as Billy paces the floor, crumpled paper in his hand.

LLOYD I don’t know what to tell ya, Billy. I’m doing everything I can. Elgin’s just not meeting our orders. Whataya want me to do?

BILLY You should have come to me.

LLOYD And what? A.H. already made calls. Hell, he sent telegrams, too.

Badnals enters and Billy holds up the crumpled papers.

BILLY How long has this been going on?

BADNALS It’s not just us. It’s all the dealerships. They’re not even taking my calls now. 55.

Billy grinds his teeth, the fuse burns short, then he kicks a waste basket across the room.

Badnals and Lloyd watch in silence, wait for Billy to come back down. Billy sighs heavily.

BILLY Okay, we got, uh, three in the showroom and six other’s parked in the lot. How far behind are you, Lloyd?

LLOYD I’m stacked seven deep and expecting two more happy customers.

BILLY Salvage parts from our inventory, but try to keep it as few as possible. Hit the lot cars only if absolutely necessary. Last thing we need is to try and sell a car picked clean.

LLOYD You got it, Billy.

Lloyd exits. Billy rubs his temples.

BADNALS I’ll keep trying Elgin. In the mean time, maybe we can swap favors with other dealers.

Billy half-heartedly nods and Badnals goes to exit, but stops short, turns back to Billy.

BADNALS (CONT'D) Maybe selling at or below cost wasn’t prudent.

Billy snickers, but doesn’t say anything, and Badnals exits.

81 INT. MISKE MOTORS, OFFICE - DAY 81

Dempsey newspaper clippings now beyond the corkboard. Billy, at his desk, goes through the books. 56.

82 INT. EXHIBITION ARENA - NIGHT 82

Dempsey dances around an OPPONENT, goes in for a jab or two, having fun. PHOTO FLASHES pop as the crowd BOOS and CHEERS.

83 INT. MISKE MOTORS, OFFICE - DAY 83

Billy writes, erases, breaks the pencil in the ledger. He’s in the red.

84 INT. EXHIBITION ARENA - NIGHT 84

Dempsey’s opponent takes a big swing and misses. Dempsey bounces off the ropes, acknowledges the crowd. But the crowd is restless.

85 INT. EXHIBITION ARENA, DEMPSEY CORNER - NIGHT 85

Kearns leans through the ropes.

KEARNS Come on, Jack!

86 INT. EXHIBITION ARENA - NIGHT 86

Dempsey looks back at Kearns then as he turns back, his opponent nails him hard. Dempsey falls back against the ropes.

87 INT. MISKE MOTORS, OFFICE - DAY 87

Billy slams the ledger shut then tosses it across the room. He stands and looks down and lifts a newspaper from his desk.

88 INT. EXHIBITION ARENA - NIGHT 88

Dempsey is on the ropes, blood trickles from his mouth. He looks at his opponent with fire in his eyes. The opponent moves in, but Dempsey meets him with a hard jab.

He unleashes all his fury on the opponent, knocks him out. The crowd goes wild as Dempsey stands over him. He’s a beast. The ref waves the opponent out and Dempsey raises his hands. 57.

89 INT. MISKE MOTORS, OFFICE - DAY 89

The newspaper Billy holds reads: “Dempsey Undefeated In Exhibitions!”

He crumples the paper then sweeps everything off his desk in a blind rage. Billy slams his fist into a filing cabinet, crushes the side. He looks up and sees Marie at the door.

MARIE Tough day at the office?

Billy, embarrassed, offers a weak smile. Marie enters, looks around, notices the clippings on the wall. She picks up the newspaper from the pile on the floor.

MARIE (CONT'D) I love what you’ve done with the place.

She stands at the Dempsey wall.

MARIE (CONT'D) I didn’t realize you were such a Jack Dempsey fan. BILLY He’s a good fighter.

She turns, sits on the edge of his desk.

MARIE So are you.

Billy snickers.

MARIE (CONT'D) How bad is it?

BILLY We’re drowning. This whole damn place is a bottomless pit.

MARIE But last year was so good.

BILLY And we should’ve been making hay.

Billy studies the Dempsey wall. MARIE So, what do we do? 58.

BILLY I’m thinking more fights.

MARIE I meant about the business?

BILLY Badnals can cover. He’s sinking in this as much as I am.

MARIE Will he be all right with that?

BILLY Marie... I don’t need his permission to pick up more fights.

MARIE I’m not saying you have to ask for anyone’s permission. All I’m wondering about are the responsibilities. That’s all.

BILLY You know as well as I do, everything is easier when I’m in the ring.

MARIE Okay. If that’s what it takes then, okay.

Billy and Marie smile at each other.

90 INT. KEARNS’S OFFICE - DAY 90

Reddy sits opposite of Kearns behind his desk.

REDDY So what do you think?

KEARNS I think it’ll be a slaughter.

REDDY Sure he’s been takin’ it slow, but...

Kearns lights a cigar.

KEARNS Look, it’s out of my hands. Really. 59.

REDDY You and I both know Dempsey hasn’t had a real match since he won the title. They’ve all been exhibitions. He’s suckin’ on the teat and it’s time to ween him, Doc.

KEARNS And the rumors that your boy is sick, in it for the purse only? Money fighters don’t fight like title fighters. You know that.

REDDY You mean like Dempsey? Hell, Kearns, show me a fighter that ain’t in it for the money and I’ll show you a lunatic.

A crooked smile crosses Kearns face.

KEARNS Billy had his chance.

Reddy laughs.

REDDY Either you’re scared or Dempsey’s scared. Which is it?

KEARNS Don’t be mad at me ‘cause your boy blew it for some car dealership.

Reddy stands and leans on Kearns’ desk, glares at Kearns.

REDDY Screw you, Kearns.

Reddy exits. Kearns puffs on his cigar.

91 INT. BOXING GYM - DAY 91

Billy boxes in front of a mirror. It’s the old Billy Miske - quick, strong, and dangerous. Reddy enters. Billy stops, takes some water, and towels off.

BILLY Well?

REDDY There’s no way you’re gettin’ a shot. 60.

Billy rests his hands on his hips and contemplates. He tosses the towel aside and takes a swig of water.

BILLY Where’s Dempsey?

92 EXT. HOLLYWOOD - DAY 92

The sun hits studios that crowd the streets lined with cars. A mansion rests on a hill.

93 EXT. DEMPSEY HOME - DAY 93

A taxi pulls up and Billy climbs out.

94 EXT. DEMPSEY HOME, POOLSIDE - CONTINUOUS 94

Dempsey soaks some sun. A couple of BATHING BEAUTIES wade in the pool. Billy is guided in by a BUTLER.

BUTLER Billy Miske to see you, Mr. Dempsey.

Billy looks around in wonder. Dempsey shades his eyes to get a look. The butler exits.

DEMPSEY You actually came.

BILLY Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, Jack. How much you pulling down?

DEMPSEY Ah, it’s not my place. It’s Fairbanks’s.

Billy sits in a lounge chair.

BILLY Is he here?

DEMPSEY No, he’s in New York. So, why did the St. Paul Thunderbolt have to come out here right away to see me?

Billy stares intently at Dempsey.

BILLY You know why. 61.

DEMPSEY You came all the way out here to ask me for a fight?

BILLY A title fight.

Dempsey shades his eyes, studies Billy for a moment.

DEMPSEY I heard you were sick.

BILLY Do I look sick?

DEMPSEY I’m not a doctor.

BILLY I’m in the best shape of my life, Jack, and I deserve a shot.

DEMPSEY What’s the matter, the car business not too good?

BILLY Seemed like a good idea at the time, but you know how it is.

DEMPSEY God love ya, Billy. Always workin’ an angle, aren’t ya?

BILLY I’m a contender.

DEMPSEY Were a contender.

Dempsey stands then dives into the pool, swims to the shallow end. Billy walks along the edge. Dempsey comes up, shakes off the water.

BILLY Put it on the line, Jack. Whataya got to lose? Except the belt, that is.

Billy smiles brightly as Dempsey wipes his face and sizes up Billy. 62.

95 INT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE, LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 95

Marie sits at the piano, casually hits a few keys. A CAR IDLES TO A STOP OUTSIDE. A moment later, Billy enters, sets down his suitcase and tosses his hat onto a table. Marie is on pins and needles.

MARIE So?

He milks it.

BILLY We got a fight.

Marie squeals and jumps up, kisses Billy.

BILLY (CONT'D) I’m finally going to be champion of the world.

They both laugh and Billy picks her up and spins her around.

96 EXT. BENTON HARBOR, BOXING ARENA - DAY 96 Packed stands. Vendors sell peanuts and beer. Patrons hustle bets. Dust billows around as cars jam into the surrounding area.

SUPER: Miske vs. Dempsey, September 6, 1920

SUPER: Heavyweight Championship Title Fight

97 EXT. BENTON HARBOR, PRESS TABLE - DAY 97

Reporters scribble in their notebooks. TWO RADIO ANNOUNCERS talk excitedly.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 Detroit News Radiophone is happy to bring you the results of Jack Dempsey’s first title defense against Billy Miske. The outdoor arena is to capacity as the crowd anticipates the arrival of the champ and his opponent. RADIO ANNOUNCER #2 And speaking of opponents, Billy Miske is a fighter from St. Paul, Minnesota. (MORE) 63. RADIO ANNOUNCER #2 (CONT'D) Though he’s not currently ranked, Miske was once considered a contender for the title that the Manassa Mauler now holds. And a good deal of St. Paul showed up for today’s match.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 Miske may be a favorite among the hometown fans, but odds favor Dempsey over Miske. No big surprise there, though Miske is expected to go the distance against the Mauler.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #2 Indeed he is.

The crowd STOMPS THE STANDS as anticipation builds.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 And the crowd is ready for the main event and we here at Detroit News Radiophone are honored to broadcast a world title fight for the first time to a national audience.

98 INT. BENTON HARBOR, DEMPSEY DRESSING ROOM - DAY 98

A tent used to ward of the heat, but only bakes its occupants. The NOISE OF THE CROWD penetrates the canvas. Kearns looks on as a CORNER MAN bandages Dempsey’s hand.

KEARNS Jesus, listen to ‘em.

99 INT. BENTON HARBOR, MISKE DRESSING ROOM - DAY 99

The atmosphere is identical to Dempsey’s. A CORNER MAN bandages Billy’s hand as Reddy looks on.

100 INT. BENTON HARBOR, DEMPSEY DRESSING ROOM - DAY 100

Dempsey slams a fist against his opened hand and flexes his hands while he glares at the canvas wall of the tent.

101 INT. BENTON HARBOR, MISKE DRESSING ROOM - DAY 101

Billy flexes his freshly bandaged hands. He rolls his shoulders and his neck. 64.

REDDY You’re gonna kill him.

102 INT. BENTON HARBOR, DEMPSEY DRESSING ROOM - DAY 102

Dempsey is on his feet. He throws a flurry of punches into the midsection of an invisible opponent.

103 INT. BENTON HARBOR, MISKE DRESSING ROOM - DAY 103

Billy is on his feet, lightly bobs from one foot to the other, rolls his neck and shoulders.

104 INT. BENTON HARBOR, DEMPSEY DRESSING ROOM - DAY 104

Kearns digs his fingers deeply into Dempsey’s neck and shoulders while Dempsey takes in deep breaths.

105 INT. BENTON HARBOR, MISKE DRESSING ROOM - DAY 105

Everyone silently watches as Billy stands in the center of the tent, his eyes to the ground, every muscle tense. He snaps his eyes forward and slams his fist into his open hand.

REDDY Put ‘em on.

A Corner Man slides Billy’s gloves onto his bandaged hands, the yellow lightning bolts bright on the cuffs.

Billy hits his chin, hard and violent a few times then nods to Reddy.

BILLY I’m ready.

106 EXT. BENTON HARBOR, BOXING ARENA, BEHIND THE STANDS - DAY106

Billy and Reddy emerge from the tent, Billy in a terry cloth robe, the Corner Man in tow. The SOUND OF THE CROWD is intimidating. Some from the top of the stands shout down at Billy.

As they walk, Billy spots in the nook of the stands an owl gazing down upon him. Reddy pats Billy’s back and he looks back and nods.

Up ahead are TWO COPS and they make their way to them. The Cops lead Billy and his corner through the opening between the stands. 65.

107 EXT. BENTON HARBOR, BOXING ARENA - DAY 107

The cops move people out of the way as they lead Billy and his corner to the ring. The CROWD ROARS, BOOS and CHEERS. Some reach out to pat Billy on the shoulders. Others hurl insults.

They pass before the radio announcers. Marie watches from a seat behind them.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 Billy Miske is making his way into the ring along with manager and trainer Jack Reddy.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #2 Miske smiles and waves to the crowd as if he knows something they don’t know.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 Odds are seven to one against Miske, leaving little to smile about, but for promotor Floyd Fitzsimmons.

BOXING RING

Billy and Reddy stand in the blazing sun, sweat drips.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 (V.O.) This is his grandest promotion yet with expectations of well over a million dollars at the gate.

REDDY If you don’t kill each other, the heat will.

The CROWD SUDDENLY ERUPTS and Billy and Reddy look to see...

JACK DEMPSEY AND HIS CORNER

...make their way through the crowd.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #2 (V.O.) And here comes the champion.

Dempsey is all business. He keeps a glare on Billy all the way to the ring, ignores the crowd. 66.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 (V.O.) Jack Dempsey defeated Jess Willard for the title a little over a year ago in a storm of controversy in Toledo, Ohio. With allegations of cheating from the Willard camp and most famously, Bat Masterson of the New York Telegraph.

DEMPSEY CORNER

Dempsey climbs in the ring and paces his corner, a caged tiger eyeing his prey.

BOXING RING

Promotor FLOYD FITZSIMMONS takes center ring. He uses a megaphone.

FITZSIMMONS And now for the main event! The heavyweight championship bout between Jack “The Manassa Mauler” Dempsey in the black trunks and Billy “The St. Paul Thunderbolt” Miske in white! This is a fifteen round contest and the first ever nationally broadcasted radio replay of a heavyweight title fight!

THE CROWD CHEERS as the REFEREE calls Dempsey and Billy center ring.

REFEREE All right, boys, make it nice and clean. Break when I tell ya and no low blows. Watch them rabbit punches. It’s fifteen rounds. Touch gloves.

Billy and Dempsey touch gloves.

DEMPSEY It’s not gonna be easy.

BILLY It never is.

They go to their respective corners.

MISKE CORNER

Reddy climbs out, but hangs on the ropes to give Billy last second instructions. 67.

REDDY For him, it’s just a title.

Billy slams his gloves together, fire in his eyes.

BILLY Come on!

DEMPSEY CORNER

KEARNS Don’t fool yourself into thinking he’s not out for revenge. You may be friendly on the outside, but in here-- In here you’re mortal enemies. You make him feel every punch. You make him regret every life decision he’s ever made. You hear me?

DEMPSEY If he cuts loose, it’ll be bloody.

KEARNS Atta boy, Jack. Take it to him.

BOXING RING

The BELL RINGS. Billy and Dempsey meet center ring.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 (V.O.) And that’s the start of the first round of the world heavyweight championship fight between Jack Dempsey and Billy Miske.

The CROWD IS DEAFENING. Billy and Dempsey jab at each other then Dempsey takes a big swing, misses. Billy lands one in Dempsey’s gut then head and they tie up.

The Referee breaks them up. Dempsey doesn’t wait for the Referee to clear and goes for a big hit, but Billy is greasy. He gets in close to tie up Dempsey, sneaks an uppercut to Dempsey’s jaw.

REDDY (O.S.) You got this!

Billy and Dempsey wrestle center ring, a punch to the head and body from both, trying to get one over on the other.

RINGSIDE SEATS

Marie chews her thumb, watches the action. 68.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 (V.O.) Dempsey just misses as Miske slips a hammer from the Mauler.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #2 (V.O.) The champ looks good, but Miske is proving to be a contender.

BOXING RING

The Referee breaks them up and Billy hooks a mean left to Dempsey’s ribs, rattles him. The crowd jumps to their feet, ROARS OF APPROVAL. RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 (V.O.) Miske lands a hard left to Dempsey’s ribs!

Dempsey backs away as Billy throws some misses, pursues Dempsey. He pushes Billy back and drives a jab like a hammer. Billy steps back, dazed, and Dempsey nails him with a right.

The BELL RINGS. Billy stumbles back to his corner.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #2 (V.O.) That’s the end of the first round. The Manassa Mauler got a lesson from Miske, but Dempsey was a fast learner.

MISKE CORNER

Billy tries to catch his breath. Reddy and a Corner Man work on him.

REDDY Just breathe. Breathe. You okay?

Billy nods. Reddy gives him water. Billy spits.

REDDY (CONT'D) Take it slow. Settle down.

DEMPSEY CORNER

Kearns works on Dempsey.

KEARNS You hurt him. DEMPSEY He’s fast, but something’s off. 69.

KEARNS Yeah, he’s done. He just doesn’t know it yet.

BOXING RING

The BELL RINGS. Billy and Dempsey meet in the middle. THE CROWD ROARS. They circle each other, look for an opening. Billy lands one in Dempsey’s ribs, but Dempsey counters with such force to Billy’s body that Billy immediately clinches.

REDDY (O.S.) Go at him! Go at him!

The Ref breaks them up and Dempsey goes for a big shot, but Billy sidesteps and punishes Dempsey.

Dempsey lands an anvil to Billy’s chest, just below the heart. Billy’s legs crumble and he hits the mat. The entire ring shakes from his landing. THE CROWD EXPLODES. PRESS TABLE

The Radio Announcer is almost out of his seat.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 Big hit from Dempsey!

RINGSIDE SEAT

Marie on the edge of her seat.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 (V.O.) Miske is down! Miske is down! For the first time ever, the St. Paul Thunderbolt is on his back!

BOXING RING

Billy sucks in air. The Referee hangs over him.

REFEREE One! Two!

Dempsey stands by and watches, ready to pounce if Billy gets back up as the Referee continues the count.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 (V.O.) Miske is struggling! The Mauler looks to end this fight quickly!

DEMPSEY Stay down, Billy. 70.

Billy shoots a look at Dempsey.

REFEREE Five!

Billy struggles to his feet, but stands, nonetheless, defiantly, and backs away, grips his midsection.

MISKE CORNER

Reddy pounds the canvas.

REDDY Take the count, goddammit!

BOXING RING

Dempsey looks back at his corner and Kearns is wild.

KEARNS You finish him!

Billy scans the crowd with cloudy eyes as the Referee gives him a once over.

REDDY (O.S.) Watch him!

Dempsey moves in, lunges for him, big swings. Billy quickly ties him up and the Referee moves in to break them apart, but Dempsey wriggles free and Billy throws a quick left hook that catches Dempsey.

Dempsey goes for another big swing, but Billy immediately ties him in a clinch. The CROWD BOOS.

RINGSIDE SEATS

Marie shushes a man booing next to her.

BOXING RING

The Ref breaks them up and Billy sneaks a shot to Dempsey’s jaw, causes little harm. Dempsey sets for a counter punch as the BELL RINGS and the Referee jumps between them.

MISKE CORNER

Billy falls into the stool and Reddy works on him. A red welt has formed over Billy’s heart.

REDDY (CONT'D) Okay, you’ve seen it all now. No surprises left. (MORE) 71. REDDY (CONT'D) He’s given his best shot and you got back up. You can do this.

Billy steels his resolve, gains control of his breathing. Reddy grabs him by the jaw, forces Billy to look at him.

REDDY (CONT'D) Hey! You listen to me. You can do this. Dempsey is nothing. You hear me? He’s a shooting star. Nothing more.

DEMPSEY CORNER

Dempsey is calm. Kearns is frantic.

KEARNS Stop toying with him.

DEMPSEY He’s a bull, Doc.

KEARNS Then take him by the horns. You don’t knock him out, you’ll have to kill him! Dempsey, concerned, glares at Kearns.

KEARNS (CONT'D) So, for his sake and yours, knock him out.

BOXING RING

The BELL RINGS. Dempsey and Billy meet in the middle. Dempsey is confident, moves lightly on his feet. Billy marches, gloves up, steely. He throws a left hook and nails Dempsey in the temple, sends him to the ropes.

RINGSIDE SEAT

Marie jumps up from her seat. She slams her fist into her palm.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 (V.O.) A left from Miske hurts Dempsey!

BOXING RING

Billy is on Dempsey with body blows, but Dempsey counters. Dempsey lands one to the midsection and Billy cringes, grunts loudly. The crowd jumps to their feet. 72.

MISKE CORNER

Reddy leans through the ropes.

REDDY Cover!

BOXING RING - SLO-MO

Billy hunched over, gasps, holds his side, BLOOD PUMPS IN HIS EARS, gushes from his nose, he staggers away from Dempsey.

Dempsey’s face filled with pity, looks down at him, pursues. Billy goes to cover, but Dempsey nails him with a bone-crushing right to the chin.

Billy’s eyes roll back. Blood and sweat fly. Bones crack. Billy’s legs drop underneath him and he’s on the mat.

PRESS TABLE

The radio announcer is on his feet.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 Dempsey’s knocked out Miske! Dempsey’s knocked out Miske!

RINGSIDE SEAT

MARIE No!

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 (V.O.) Jack Dempsey will retain the title of heavyweight champion of the world!

Marie falls back into her chair in defeat.

BOXING RING

But Billy has other plans as he gets to his knees.

RADIO ANNOUNCER #1 (V.O.) Miske is trying to beat the count!

Dempsey, with raised arms, sees Billy struggle. He can’t believe it. He looks to Kearns, but all Kearns can do is shake his head.

MISKE CORNER

Reddy is raw with emotion. 73.

REDDY Stay down, Billy! For God’s sake, stay down!

RINGSIDE SEATS

The CROWD ROARS with anticipation. Marie looks up and sees Billy struggle. She stands, her hands clasped.

MARIE Come on, Billy!

BOXING RING

Billy is on his knees. The Ref counts over him. Dempsey moves around behind Billy.

Billy gets to his feet on nine. The CROWD ERUPTS.

MISKE CORNER

Reddy leans through the ropes.

REDDY Watch him!

BOXING RING

Billy, unsure where he is, immediately puts up his guard, but Dempsey, from behind, throws a hammer and catches him in the jaw. Billy drops, out cold. It’s over. The CROWD MIXES BOOS AND CHEERS.

RINGSIDE

Marie hurries to the Miske Corner.

BOXING RING

Dempsey stands over Billy. The referee pushes him back to his corner, finishes the count then waves Billy out.

DEMPSEY CORNER

Kearns and the Corner pat Dempsey on the back as he watches Reddy and Billy’s Corner move to Billy’s lifeless body.

DEMPSEY Is he dead?

BOXING RING

Reddy holds Billy’s head. Billy’s eyes flutter, mouth open. 74.

REDDY Not yet.

REPORTERS storm the ring to get a photo of Miske on the mat and get at Dempsey for comment. Dempsey shoves them out of the way, makes his way to Billy. He picks Billy up and carries him to the...

MISKE CORNER

Dempsey places Billy on the stool. Billy slumps, head hangs. Reddy smacks Billy’s face. A Corner Man pours water on Billy’s head. Marie is there at the ropes.

MARIE Billy?

Billy slowly comes to, tries to focus. Dempsey tries to make eye contact.

BILLY What happened?

REDDY Knockout.

BILLY Him or me?

Billy manages a weak smile and Dempsey looks up at a stern Reddy. The sun washes them out.

108 INT. BENTON HARBOR, PRESS TENT - DAY 108

It’s just Billy and Reddy at a table. Marie stands to the side and watches. The press corps feverishly writes, snaps photos.

BENTON REPORTER #1 Did you get a chance to talk to Dempsey after the match?

Billy is battered and hurt and almost punch drunk.

BILLY No. No, I didn’t. I wanted to, but...

REDDY He ran off after that cheap shot to end the fight.

BENTON REPORTER #2 But the fight was more or less over at the point. 75.

REDDY You don’t end it that way!

BILLY I-I just wanna say that I’m sorry... (tears fill Billy’s eyes) I’m sorry that I didn’t make a better showing for St. Paul. I know a lot people were counting on me. (he looks over at Marie) And I let them down. I’m sorry.

Tears pool in Marie’s eyes.

BILLY (CONT'D) Nobody hits harder than Dempsey. No one in the world has any chance at all with him. I was the best, but... I, uh... I gotta... (stands) I’m gonna go now... REPORTERS SHOUT QUESTIONS as Billy meets Marie and they exit. Reddy stays at the table.

BENTON REPORTER #1 Does that mean no rematch?

REDDY Billy Miske will fight Jack Dempsey any time, anywhere!

109 INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - DAY 109

Billy is asleep in the bed as Marie sits in a chair. She stands and kisses him on the head then exits.

110 INT. HOSPITAL HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS 110

Marie enters the hallway, meets Reddy halfway.

REDDY How is he?

MARIE Sleeping.

REDDY What do the doctors say? 76.

Marie shrugs, tears up.

MARIE Nobody is telling me anything.

Reddy is sympathetic.

REDDY He’s a tough son-of-a-bitch.

Marie smiles through her tears and she hugs Reddy, much to his surprise.

MARIE Thank you.

But Reddy hates himself for the rouse. Marie let’s him go, wipes her tears away.

MARIE (CONT'D) Don’t tell him I was crying.

They smile at each other and Marie walks down the hall and leaves Reddy drawn and disappointed.

111 INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - LATER 111

Billy stirs, not yet awake. He adjusts in the bed, then his eyes snap open and he sees Reddy in the chair, his face like stone.

REDDY She asked that I not tell you she was crying.

Reddy leans forward, impatient.

REDDY (CONT'D) Your wife doesn’t want you to know that she’s crying, Billy. She doesn’t understand what the hell is going on with you.

Billy doesn’t say anything. He stares at the ceiling. Reddy stands to get in his line of sight.

REDDY (CONT'D) Did you hear what I said? Your wife doesn’t want you to know she’s crying. You’re going to die and she’s not going to know why. How does that make you feel?

BILLY Better than waiting for it. 77.

REDDY Bullshit!

Reddy abruptly turns away, paces the floor. He comes back to Billy a few times, wants to say more, but changes his mind. Finally, he finds the words.

REDDY (CONT'D) If you wanted to go through life alone, then you should have kept it that way. I’m not going to stick around and watch you kill yourself. But, at least, I got a choice.

BILLY What do you want me to do?

REDDY Tell her, so I don’t have to act like everything is okay. So, I don’t have to lie for you.

BILLY Then don’t. Reddy cocks and eyebrow, stands back, balls his fists.

REDDY Don’t think I won’t knock your ass out just because you’re in that bed.

Billy and Reddy lock eyes and it is Billy who yields.

BILLY Fine. I’ll tell her.

REDDY That’s all I ask.

Reddy sits back down, as if he’s just run a mile.

REDDY (CONT'D) That’s all I ask.

112 INT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE - DAY 112

Billy enters, tosses his hat onto a table. The cottage is quiet and Billy checks the rooms for signs of life. Billy goes to the back door and sees Marie with Billy Junior and Douglas in the backyard playing tag. 78.

The boys chase Marie around a tree, laughs, squeals, Marie howls. They finally catch her, thankfully, as she’s out of breath. Marie sees Billy at the screen door.

MARIE Daddy’s home!

The boys turn and see Billy and cheer. Billy comes through the door and meets them on the...

BACK PORCH

Billy gets on his knees and puts up his dukes and the boys play fight with him. Douglas lands one on the chin and Billy goes down for the count.

The boys stare down at their dad, his eyes shut. Then Billy’s eyes snap open and he roars, grabs the boys, laughs. Billy swats their butts and sends them running.

Billy sits on the steps and watches the boys run around the trees. Marie joins him.

MARIE (CONT'D) Billy-- BILLY --I’m sorry.

MARIE Sorry for what?

BILLY I haven’t exactly been honest with you.

Marie furrows her brow as Billy works up the courage.

BILLY (CONT'D) Issues I’ve been having... It’s not my back... Not just my back. I’ve been having problems with my kidneys, too.

Marie places her hand on Billy’s arm. They stare into each other’s eyes, Billy matches the concern in Marie’s eyes... Then he lightens up, puts on airs.

BILLY (CONT'D) It’s nothing. Just too many blows from too many fights. I put everything into hitting harder, but I guess I should’ve paid more attention to ducking. 79.

Marie breathes a sigh of relief and wipes away tears, but the flood was well on its way and she cries. Billy embraces her.

BILLY (CONT'D) Hey, hey, it’s okay. Don’t cry. I’m all right. That’s all over now. I took my shot.

He lifts Marie’s face to look into her wet eyes.

BILLY (CONT'D) Don’t cry, darling.

MARIE I thought it was something serious. You scared me.

She cries again and Billy pulls her close, hugs her as she cries into his shoulder. And shame washes over him.

113 INT. LAKE JOHANNA COTTAGE, BEDROOM - DAY 113

Billy finishes tying his necktie in the mirror. Marie enters. MARIE Have you thought about what we’re going to do with the money from the Dempsey fight?

BILLY Whataya mean?

MARIE Cause I was thinking... Maybe, getting out of the car business.

Billy gives her a look.

MARIE (CONT'D) You said so yourself, it’s a money pit and we’re drowning. Maybe you should cut your losses and... File bankruptcy-- and, at least, keep some of the money for ourselves. We could even sell the farm.

Billy puts his jacket on. BILLY I-I can’t do that.

MARIE There’s nothing wrong with it. 80.

BILLY I don’t want anyone to say I ever took anyone for a dime. And I have a partner. The farm, on the other hand...

Marie has a sheepish look about her.

BILLY (CONT'D) What?

MARIE I already talked to Mr. Badnals and he agrees. Elgin is going nowhere. He’ll file if you’ll file.

Billy is indignant as he stares hard at Marie.

BILLY No one will ever say I cheated them out of a dime. I pay my debts.

114 EXT. ST. PAUL HOUSE - DAY 114

An expansive bungalow on a large lot with mighty oaks and perfect maples on a sunny spring day. An Elgin parked outside.

SUPER: 1923, St. Paul, Minnesota

115 INT. ST. PAUL HOUSE, LIVING ROOM - DAY 115

Marie, wide-eyed and excited, pregnant and due any minute, looks around the empty home. Billy stands by with a REALTOR.

MARIE Oh, Billy! Could you imagine? It’s just-- It’s just perfect!

REALTOR Three bedrooms, Mrs. Miske.

MARIE The boys can share and the baby will have a nursery. REALTOR There’s a basement, as well. 81.

Marie mouths “A BASEMENT” to Billy, but he isn’t really there. Marie slaps him on the shoulder and Billy manages a look of impressiveness.

REALTOR (CONT'D) Let’s go to the kitchen.

KITCHEN

They enter and Marie almost gasps.

REALTOR (CONT'D) There’s even room for a breakfast nook. MARIE A nook!

BILLY You’re making his job easy, Marie.

MARIE I love it. I just love it.

Marie composes herself.

MARIE (CONT'D) How much?

REALTOR Six thousand two hundred forty.

Billy whistles.

BILLY That’s a lot of scratch.

The Realtor clears his throat. Marie kisses Billy on the cheek then lightly slaps him on the chin.

MARIE My husband is a fighter-- was a fighter.

REALTOR Yes, I know. The Saint Paul Thunderbolt. His exploits are well known.

BILLY You hear that, Marie? Exploits.

Marie gives Billy the stink-eye.

REALTOR I didn’t mean-- 82.

MARIE --Are you a fight fan?

REALTOR Not really, but--

BILLY --Six thousand is, uh, it’s up there, pal.

REALTOR Six thousand two hundred forty.

Marie, worrisome, looks from Billy to the Realtor.

BILLY Maybe we should wait.

Marie sidles up to Billy, lays her head on his shoulder.

MARIE One child at the cottage, fine. Two, we’re pushing it. But three? Billy, we live in the wilderness.

Billy sighs heavily.

MARIE (CONT'D) (to Realtor) How about a hometown hero deal?

The Realtor awkwardly smiles.

BILLY Marie--

MARIE --What if you pick up locals fights, not all the time and nothing big, but a few to make up the difference? That and sell the farm.

They hold each other, gaze into each other’s eyes. It’s too much for Billy. He would buy St. Paul for her.

BILLY (to the Realtor) I’m only paying six thousand, not a penny more. REALTOR I, uh... Um, okay. I’ll start the paperwork. Congratulations. 83.

Billy and Marie stare lovingly at each other and she kisses Billy’s nose.

116 MONTAGE - VARIOUS 116

A.) Billy boxes, takes a beating, but still holds his own.

B.) Billy in his corner, exhausted. Reddy works on him unhappily, concerned.

C.) Marie decorates the new house as best she can with the baby due any day.

D.) Billy on the sales floor at Miske Motors. Exhausted. No customers. Frustrated.

E.) Billy boxes, tied up in a corner. Reddy shouts up at him. The BELL RINGS and Billy goes to sit, Reddy puts the stool out just in time. Reddy is frustrated.

F.) Reddy helps Billy to the bathroom after a fight. Billy vomits. Reddy pats him on the back.

G.) Billy gets home late. The boys rush him. After a brief hello, he drags himself straight to bed, passes a full-term Marie.

H.) Billy takes a shot to the head, blood sprays, falls against the ropes.

I.) Reddy uses smelling salts on Billy, wakes him from a cloud.

J.) Billy rushes through a hospital, a bandage across his nose, black eye. He stops at a door, straightens his jacket, slicks back his hair, then opens the door and reveals Marie and their new baby girl, DONNA.

END OF MONTAGE

117 INT. MISKE MOTORS, OFFICE - DAY 117

Billy sits at his desk, faded bruises on his face. He pours over bank statements. There’s a KNOCK AT THE DOOR and Badnals pokes in his head.

BADNALS Billy, you have a minute?

BILLY Yeah, sure. Come on in.

Badnals enters, but remains standing. 84.

BADNALS I want you to buy me out.

Billy is taken aback by this.

BILLY Um, well, I’m not sure that I can, A.H.

BADNALS Then I’m filing bankruptcy and I suggest that you do the same.

BILLY Hold on just a minute. Let’s talk this through.

BADNALS Billy, the only thing keeping this place afloat is your prize fighting. You know it. I know it. We’re bleeding and it just isn’t right. You’re a part-time fighter and a full-time business owner. Should be the other way around. It’s not fair to you. And it’s not fair to me.

BILLY We’re in a rough patch, I’ll admit, but--

BADNALS --I’m sorry, Billy. I’ve made up my mind. I’ll give you until the end of the month to decide, but...

The PHONE RINGS as Badnals exits. Billy answers.

BILLY Miske Motors. Billy Miske speaking. (to Badnals) A.H.?

118 INT. ST. PAUL HOUSE, BATHROOM - DAY 118

Hunched over the toilet, Billy vomits. He’s a sweaty mess.

BILLY God, please. 85.

Billy sits back against the tub, catches his breath. A BABY CRIES from somewhere in the house then there’s the SOUND OF GLASS BREAKING.

Billy convulses, quickly leans over the toilet and vomits. He breaks down in suppressed sobs.

MARIE (O.S.) Billy! I need you!

Billy regains his composure, stands, splashes water on his face then stares at himself in the mirror.

119 INT. ST. PAUL HOUSE, BABY’S ROOM - DAY 119

Marie brings Donna down from a good cry. Billy enters.

MARIE Will you check on the boys? (so the boys can hear) It better not be my mother’s vase!

Billy nods, still reeling from the episode in the bathroom. Marie notices and places her hand on his forehead.

MARIE (CONT'D) You feeling all right?

BILLY Think I got a bug.

MARIE Do I need to make an appointment with Dr. Hereford?

BILLY I’ve paid enough doctor bills.

MARIE Why don’t you stay home, today? The dealership will survive.

Billy sighs heavily and sits on the edge of the bed.

BILLY Badnals is petitioning bankruptcy.

MARIE What? I thought--

BILLY --Elgin is on its way out. He doesn’t want to hang on anymore. (MORE) 86. BILLY (CONT'D) When he goes, I’m without any support whatsoever. Doesn’t matter how much money I sink into it. I won’t be able to keep up.

There’s another CRASHING SOUND from somewhere in the house.

MARIE (so the boys can hear) You are going to be in big trouble!

There’s a THUD from somewhere in the house and LAUGHING. Billy stands and kisses her on the forehead then exits.

120 INT. COURTROOM - DAY 120

Billy sits at a table before the court. Across from him are representatives from the bank. The JUDGE reads over some papers.

JUDGE Assets total $20,700?

BILLY Yes, Judge.

JUDGE And liabilities $28,130?

BANK REP That is correct.

The Judge lays the papers down and grabs a pen.

JUDGE And we’re all in agreement?

BANK REP Yes, your honor.

The Judge looks to Billy, the regret plain as day on Billy’s face.

JUDGE Mr. Miske?

BILLY Yes, Judge.

The Judge writes and stamps the paperwork. 87.

JUDGE Okay, Mr. Miske. You are hereby relieved of the difference between your assets and liabilities. Best of luck to you.

Billy nods disappointedly.

121 INT. ST. PAUL HOUSE, LIVING ROOM - DAY 121

Billy holds Donna, Marie stands-by while MOVERS carry her piano from the house. She’s in tears as Billy Junior and Douglas run around a practically barren home, excited to have so much open space.

Billy goes to comfort Marie, but she shrugs him off and hurries down the hallway. A DOOR SLAMS. The boys run.

BILLY Butts on the floor.

The boys plop where they stand and Billy puts Donna in a bassinet. Then he heads down the hallway.

BILLY (CONT'D) Watch your sister.

122 INT. ST. PAUL HOUSE, BEDROOM - DAY 122

Marie lays in bed, tears in her eyes, stares up at the ceiling. There’s a KNOCK AT THE DOOR.

MARIE Go away.

The door opens and Billy pokes his head in.

BILLY Marie?

MARIE I don’t want to talk about it, Billy.

Billy enters anyway. He sits on the edge of the bed and Marie turns her back to him.

BILLY It’s only temporary. MARIE Then what? You’ll go and buy my grandmother’s piano back? 88.

BILLY If that’ll make you happy.

MARIE If that will make me-- (turns to Billy) Billy, what are we going to do?

BILLY It’ll be okay.

MARIE You keep saying that.

BILLY Because I believe it and so do you. Everything has always worked out, right? We’re gonna be okay.

Marie, tears in her eyes, doesn’t know what to say.

123 EXT. CITY SIDEWALK - DAY 123

A crisp autumn day. Billy strolls, hands shoved deeply into his pockets, works out thoughts, his face gaunt.

He sits on a bench and watches couples and kids. The stores have put up Christmas decorations and people leave the stores with bags in hand.

MAN (O.S.) Pardon me.

Billy looks to see a MAN and his SON. The man carries several shopping bags and boxes.

MAN (CONT'D) I thought it was you. May I shake your hand?

Billy reaches out and they awkwardly shake hands through bags and boxes.

MAN (CONT'D) I saw you fight in eighteen.

BILLY Did I win?

MAN Of course you did. You were great.

BILLY Thanks. Doing a little Christmas shopping? 89.

MAN Tis the season to go broke. But the kids, you know...

Billy nods and as they walk away--

SON Who was that?

MAN He used to be Billy Miske, the St. Paul Thunderbolt. A fighter.

His words hit Billy hard and he reflects then looks down at his hands, turns them, studies the shape, the knuckles. Billy forms two fists.

124 INT. GYM - NIGHT 124

Darkness. POUNDING ON THE DOOR. A light kicks on in the stairwell and Reddy hobbles down the stairs with a pistol. He can see the silhouette of a man through the frosted glass. More POUNDING.

Reddy jerks the door open and raises the pistol.

REDDY Nothin’ in here worth dyin’ over.

The light overhead reveals Billy. Reddy lowers the gun. Billy enters and Reddy shuts and locks the door, watches Billy walk to the stairs, pending frustration.

125 INT. GYM, REDDY’S OFFICE/ROOM - NIGHT 125

Billy and Reddy enter. Billy sits and Reddy sets the gun on the desk, opens a drawer and produces a bottle of whiskey and two glasses.

REDDY Snort?

BILLY Just a short one.

Reddy pours two glass, slides one over to Billy then sits. He sips his whiskey.

REDDY How’ve you been?

BILLY Just walking the streets. Thinking about things. 90.

REDDY Man starts thinkin’ too much, foolishness abounds. What’s on your mind?

BILLY Been thinking about fighting.

REDDY Well, you can think, but... It’s been five months. It’s bad enough I let you fight as long as you did. And now... You backed out of too many, Billy. Hell, you even turned down sparrin’ Tommy Gibbons.

BILLY I wasn’t well.

Reddy makes a “PFFT” sound, sits back, shakes his head.

REDDY And now? People talk, pal. You’re in no condition to fight and everybody knows it. They don’t know why, but they know it.

BILLY I want you to get me one to break the bank. Before you say anything, I’m flat broke. I need the dough and I need it yesterday.

REDDY That’s all well and good, but I don’t know if I could get you one if I wanted to. And, frankly, I don’t want to.

BILLY Well, we don’t always get what we want. One last good fight. I need this. For my family. If not for me then for them.

REDDY Hell, I am thinkin’ of them.

Billy stands, glass in hand. He goes to the window and stares out at the city lights. Billy gulps his drink. 91.

BILLY I haven’t long to go and I want to give Marie and the kids something to remember me by. One more happy Christmas. It’s all I have left.

Reddy, pensive, stares down at his whiskey.

REDDY And if you die?

BILLY I’m a fighter, Jack. I’d rather die in the ring than while sitting home in a rocking chair.

Reddy pulls a cash box from his desk and opens it, money stacked inside.

REDDY How much? You can have it all.

Billy holds up his hands, offended.

BILLY I’ve never taken a handout in my life and I’m certainly not going to take one at the end of it.

REDDY I can’t have that on my head, Billy. I won’t.

Billy sits.

BILLY I’m not asking for your permission, Jack. I’m telling you that I’m going to fight. Whether you’re in my corner or not, I’m going to fight. But I’d rather have you there... And you have to ask yourself, if I fight and I die in that ring, will you have any regrets? Because I won’t.

Reddy stiffens his lip and flexes his jaw. He throws back the whisky, wipes his mouth and glares at Billy.

REDDY Those kidney’s are rottin’ you inside out. I should just take that pistol there and end it now. 92.

BILLY Life just happens, Jack, and all you can do is try to make it last as long as possible, to stop time when you can... Right now. That’s it. That’s all we get.

Reddy ponders sorrowfully.

REDDY You’re not givin’ me much of a choice and that ain’t fair.

BILLY We all have choices. That’s what’s not fair. Best we can do is hope they’re the right ones.

Reddy pours himself another drink. He sips, studies Billy.

REDDY Just so you know, I’ll have regrets and there’s nothing you can do about it.

Billy holds out his glass and Reddy fills it. They both lock eyes as they gulp their drinks.

126 EXT. HOLLYWOOD - DAY 126

The sun bounces off the “HOLLYWOODLAND” sign in the hills that overlook Los Angeles.

127 INT. STUDIO - DAY 127

Dempsey at a table. A gathering of reporters and photographers. Kearns stands behind him proudly.

HOLLYWOOD REPORTER #1 Why an exhibition and not a title fight, Champ?

DEMPSEY It’s a promotional fight for the studio.

HOLLYWOOD REPORTER #2 When do you plan on defending your title again?

DEMPSEY Soon as someone worth fighting magically shows up. 93.

HOLLYWOOD REPORTER #1 You like working in pictures, Champ?

Dempsey sees Reddy enter behind the reporters.

DEMPSEY It’s a lot of sitting around and playing Bridge, I’ll tell ya that. But everyone’s been real good to me.

HOLLYWOOD REPORTER #2 You going to continue making pictures?

DEMPSEY I guess that all depends.

HOLLYWOOD REPORTER #2 On what?

KEARNS On whether anybody worth fighting magically shows up.

Everyone laughs.

128 INT. STUDIO, SOUNDSTAGE - DAY 128

Reddy watches Dempsey in a scene. Douglas Fairbanks walks over.

FAIRBANKS Mr. Reddy, Douglas Fairbanks. Remember?

They shake hands.

REDDY Yeah. How are you?

FAIRBANKS I’m well. Thank you. I, uh... There’s, uh, rumors that... How’s Billy?

REDDY He’s doing well. I’ll tell him you asked about him. He’ll like that. You know he named his son after you.

Fairbanks smiles embarrassingly. 94.

FAIRBANKS I hope he’s a dashing young man.

Reddy gives Fairbanks a look and Fairbanks laughs.

129 EXT. STUDIO - DAY 129

Dempsey leans against a wall, lights a cigar. Reddy smokes one.

DEMPSEY I gotta say, I’m surprised you came out. Thought you were still holding a grudge.

REDDY I am. How you ended that fight, it was classless. Especially, since it was Billy.

Dempsey nods regretfully.

REDDY (CONT'D) But none of that matters now. So, whataya say, Jack? DEMPSEY I say, why didn’t Billy come out and ask me himself?

REDDY You know him.

DEMPSEY Yeah, I do. What’s the big deal? I hear he’s been turning down fights.

REDDY He hit a rough patch there for a while, but he’s better. Except, he’s got money trouble and is lookin’ to get out of a jam. You know how he gets. Too proud for his own good.

Dempsey puffs on his cigar and ponders.

DEMPSEY I won’t fight him, Jack. REDDY I’m not askin’ you to and neither is Billy, but you can pull some strings. 95.

DEMPSEY How soon?

REDDY As soon as possible. It’s a deep hole.

DEMPSEY I’ll see what I can do.

REDDY It has to be big money.

DEMPSEY I know who to talk to.

Reddy nods, smoke billows from around the cigar.

DEMPSEY (CONT'D) Jack... I’m sorry.

Reddy considers Dempsey for a second then nods.

130 INT. FLOYD FITZSIMMONS’S OFFICE - DAY 130 Dempsey sits across from Fitzsimmons.

DEMPSEY I’m not looking to get him killed, Floyd.

FITZSIMMONS From what I hear, that won’t take much.

DEMPSEY Hell, he could’ve been champ.

FITZSIMMONS Except he’s not. You are.

DEMPSEY And I worked hard to get it.

FITZSIMMONS We all did.

DEMPSEY That’s right. And you’re the great Floyd Fitzsimmons and nobody can put on a show like you. But Brennan? He’s an ape. 96.

FITZSIMMONS He’s the only man that can draw them in like you. If your boy wants a big money fight, then it’s Brennan or nobody. Unless you want to--

DEMPSEY --No. Someday, he might beat me. No reason to rush it.

Fitzsimmons mulls it over.

FITZSIMMONS They share fifteen percent of the gate.

DEMPSEY Sixty.

Fitzsimmons almost chokes.

FITZSIMMONS Sixty? Twenty-five.

DEMPSEY I could always find another promotor.

FITZSIMMONS For this? Never.

DEMPSEY That’s not what I mean.

Fitzsimmons gives pause, chuckles.

FITZSIMMONS All right. Forty percent and not a point more.

Dempsey smiles.

131 INT. GYM - DAY 131

Billy leans on the edge of the boxing ring. Reddy stands close by, reporters and photographers before them. To the side is Marie, holding Donna, the boys next to her.

GYM REPORTER #1 What about the rumors that you’re sick and unable to train? 97.

REDDY Yeah, and a Puritan’s idea of hell is a place where everybody has to mind his own business. Don’t print that.

The reporters laugh.

REDDY (CONT'D) Billy is as healthy as a mule and kicks like one, too. You can print that.

GYM REPORTER #2 Is that true, Billy?

BILLY Well, I once saw a boxing kangaroo, but never a mule. That being said, you can take Jack’s word for it. I’ve never felt stronger.

The reporters laugh again.

GYM REPORTER #2 Is this a comeback?

BILLY My whole life has been a comeback.

GYM REPORTER #1 Hey, how about a photo with you and your son.

BILLY Sure.

Billy waves Billy Junior over. He crouches down on one knee and puts up his fists.

BILLY (CONT'D) He’s a slugger, boys. Stand back. Future champion of the world.

Billy Junior takes a swing. Flashbulbs pop. The reporters laugh. Billy wobbles a little when he stands. Some reporters exchange looks.

BILLY (CONT'D) Just the thought of him hitting me makes me weak in the knees.

More laughter. 98.

132 INT. ST. PAUL HOUSE, HALLWAY - NIGHT 132

Marie quietly opens the bedroom door, the light from the hallway cuts into the darkness, reveals Billy in bed.

MARIE Billy?

BILLY Hm?

MARIE I’ve boiled some fish for you. Do you want coffee, too.

Billy rolls over to face Marie.

BILLY I’d rather eat a boiled shoe.

MARIE It’s all you’ve been able to keep down, lately. You have to eat.

BILLY Maybe later.

Marie enters the...

133 INT. ST. PAUL HOUSE, BEDROOM - NIGHT 133

...and sits on the edge of the bed.

MARIE What about your training?

Billy reaches up and moves a strand of hair from her face.

BILLY I just need some rest. (she’s not convinced) Hey, I was thinking. After the holidays, maybe we take a trip. Go to California, meet some movie stars, live high on the hog like we used to. Maybe a big time producer will discover you and make you star. One of us has to make it to the top.

Marie sadly smiles. She kisses the palm of his hand then places it on her cheek. 99.

MARIE You are my champion of the world.

They kiss.

134 INT. OMAHA AUDITORIUM, MISKE DRESSING ROOM - NIGHT 134

THE NOISE OF THE CROWD STOMPING THE STANDS penetrates the walls. Reddy leans on the edge of the table.

The bathroom door opens and Billy emerges, boxing trunks, taped hands, gaunt face. He nods to Reddy and Reddy helps Billy with his gloves. They work in silence.

SUPER: Omaha

Reddy helps Billy with his robe and he stands back, out of Billy’s way, anticipates his usual hits to his own jaw, but Billy merely looks at Reddy.

BILLY What?

REDDY Nothin’... Nothin’.

There’s a KNOCK AT THE DOOR. Reddy opens the door, the RUSH OF THE ROARING CROWD fills the room. Marie is there.

BILLY Shouldn’t you be in your seat?

MARIE I wanted to wish you luck.

Marie enters and kisses Billy on the cheek.

MARIE (CONT'D) Good luck.

She wipes the lipstick off his cheek and he smiles. Marie goes to the door then turns to Billy.

MARIE (CONT'D) Make it a quick one.

BILLY I love you.

Marie smiles then blows Billy a kiss and she’s gone. Billy takes a beat, stares at the empty doorway, then he looks at Reddy.

BILLY (CONT'D) I’m ready. 100.

135 INT. OMAHA AUDITORIUM - NIGHT 135

Billy enters with Reddy and his Corner Men in tow. Two cops lead the way. The crowd goes nuts. He passes by the front row where Marie sits and winks at her.

BOXING RING

Billy enters the ring. He throws a few jabs, but that’s it. The CROWD ERUPTS as KO BILL BRENNAN enters.

They watch Brennan nod to the crowd, arms raised. He enters the ring, throws some hooks, raises his hands and turns to the crowd and they explode.

SUPER: Miske vs. Brennan

SUPER: November 7, 1923

Fitzsimmons takes center ring.

FITZSIMMONS Allow me to introduce a special guest who really needs no introduction. The Manassa Mauler himself, the one and only heavyweight champion of the world, Jack Dempsey.

Dempsey enters the ring to a ROAR OF APPLAUSE. He walks the ropes, waves and stops at the...

BRENNAN CORNER

Brennan is a beast of a man. He stands four inches above Dempsey and thick all over.

DEMPSEY Good luck, Bill.

BRENNAN I’m coming back for you, Jack.

DEMPSEY That would be your second mistake.

BRENNAN Yeah? And what’s the first?

DEMPSEY Our last fight. Always a pleasure, Bill.

Dempsey waves to the crowd as he makes his way over to the... 101.

MISKE CORNER

DEMPSEY (CONT'D) If I know you, Thunder, and I think I do, don’t kill him, but you can hurt him real bad.

BILLY Hell of a pep talk.

Dempsey playfully slaps Billy on the cheek, waves to the crowd and climbs out of the ring.

BOXING RING

FITZSIMMONS Ladies and gentlemen, this is the main event. In this corner, weighing in at 206 pounds, wearing black trunks, the one and only KO Bill Brennan! (crowd roars) And in this corner, weighing in at 189 pounds, in white trunks, Billy “The St. Paul Thunderbolt” Miske. This is a fifteen round, no decision, test of heavyweight endurance! Gentlemen.

The REFEREE motions for the fighters to join him center ring. Billy looks up at Brennan.

REFEREE You know the rules. No low blows, keep your heads off the other guy’s, and watch those rabbit punches. Make a clean break, but after that, all bets off. Got it?

They nod.

REFEREE (CONT'D) Have a good fight, boys.

Billy smiles.

BRENNAN I’m gonna wipe that smile off your face.

They touch gloves and head back to their corners. MISKE CORNER

REDDY He’s a big sonofabitch, ain’t he? 102.

BILLY Harder they fall, Jack. Harder they fall.

REDDY That being said, glad it’s you and not me.

Billy chuckles. Reddy climbs out of the ring.

BILLY What? No words of wisdom?

REDDY Yeah. Don’t die. Marie’s watching.

The BELL RINGS.

BILLY You’re a helluva manager.

BOXING RING

Billy and Brennan meet center ring. Brennan nails Billy with a hard right, catches him by surprise. Billy wobbles to the ropes. The CROWD ERUPTS. He bounces back, shakes it off and moves in.

Brennan jabs. Billy jukes and jives, slips the jabs. He sees an opening and moves in. Brennan ties him up.

Billy slams his glove against Brennan’s head. Brennan smiles through his mouthpiece, holds on to Billy tight. The Referee moves in.

REFEREE Break it up.

Billy wiggles free. Brennan swings over the Referee’s head and nails Billy. The Referee runs for cover.

Billy returns with a hammer to the gut. Brennan is right back at him with a left hook, sends Billy staggering. He catches himself, shakes it off in time to see Brennan rumble toward him.

MISKE CORNER

Reddy leans through the ropes.

REDDY Make him work! 103.

BOXING RING

Brennan throws a wild right. Billy dodges it, allows Brennan’s momentum to carry him almost out of the ring.

Billy slams his fist into Brennan’s ear. The BELL RINGS. MISKE CORNER

Billy, unsteady as he reaches the corner, plops down on the stool. Reddy and the Corner work on him.

REDDY (CONT'D) That wasn’t so bad.

BILLY He’s not here for just a payday.

Reddy gives him some water.

REDDY Just keep him moving. Wear him out. Let him throw those wild punches, but don’t get caught. Okay? Don’t get caught! Billy spits.

BRENNAN CORNER

Brennan, winded, but settled. He keeps his eye on Billy. His corner works on him in silence. The BELL RINGS. Brennan stands and pounds his gloves together.

BOXING RING

Brennan practically runs across the ring to meet Billy, throws an uppercut that just misses.

Billy slides and slams his fist into Brennan’s rib cage with a crunch.

Brennan cringes in pain. A BURST FROM THE CROWD. Billy dances to the other side of the ring. The CROWD BOOS. Brennan lumbers after him. He corners Billy and moves in. Billy immediately ties Brennan up. Brennan head-butts Billy.

Billy pushes Brennan off, blood runs down his face. The Referee warns Brennan, checks Billy then signals for the fight to continue. 104.

MISKE CORNER

REDDY (CONT'D) Come on, ref! How bout a little effort there, huh? Act like you do this for livin’, you bastard!

The Referee jabs a finger at Reddy.

REFEREE Another outburst from you like that and I’ll take a point!

REDDY Are you kiddin’?

BOXING RING

Billy wipes away the blood in time to see Brennan’s jackhammer as it slams against his head. Billy teeters to the corner. Brennan is on him, pounds him like meat. Billy covers, takes a beating.

MISKE CORNER

Reddy pounds on the mat.

REDDY(CONT’D) (CONT'D) Get outta there!

BOXING RING

Brennan continues his assault. Billy cringes with pain. Brennan throws a shot at Billy’s jaw, drops him like a wet sack, crumpled in the corner. The CROWD ROARS. The Referee moves in for the count. Brennan moves to center ring.

REFEREE One! Two! Three!

Billy wipes away blood, looks around the arena, up at the Referee then he pulls himself up, steady in the corner. The Referee gives him a once over then steps away.

Brennan moves in fast, but Billy swings out of the corner. Brennan turns, sees Billy on the other side, hurting, breathing hard. He smiles and stomps across the mat to his victim. The BELL RINGS. MISKE CORNER

Billy falls onto the stool. Reddy and the Corner work. 105.

REDDY Use those counts! Use them! Don’t pop up like they ain’t nothin.

Billy wheezes as he breathes, sweat pours. Reddy presses hard on the cut. He gives Billy water and Billy spits.

BILLY No way I go fifteen.

REDDY Let’s take it one round at a time and just worry bout stayin’ alive.

Billy looks out at Marie. She sits on the edge of her seat, hands clasped, keeping it together. Billy raises a glove to her and smiles. She smiles back and waves.

REDDY (CONT'D) We could be on a train half way to Saint Paul by now if you’d just stayed down.

Reddy wipes away the blood from Billy’s brow.

BILLY I hate trains, Jack. Always have.

Billy laughs through the pain. Reddy chuckles.

REDDY You're a tough sonofabitch, I’ll give you that. Don’t be stupid.

Billy stands.

BILLY Too late.

Reddy climbs out of the ring and Billy turns to Marie and gives her an exhausted nod and wave of a glove again.

The BELL RINGS. BOXING RING

Brennan bounces at center ring. Billy circles him, wheezes, bleeds, rubber legs.

BRENNAN Not looking so good, Thunderbolt.

Billy offers a sneer.

BRENNAN (CONT'D) This is your final round. 106.

BILLY Come on! Come at me!

Brennan moves in. He feigns a punch. Billy dodges right where Brennan thought he would. Billy is met with a shot to the ribs, almost vomits then gets a glove to the head.

Billy stumbles against the ropes. The CROWD ROARS. Brennan moves in for the kill. He throws a haymaker. Billy ducks then ties up Brennan.

They wrestle center ring before the Referee breaks them up. Billy swings, but Brennan is quicker and catches Billy in the gut. Billy ties him back up. The CROWD BOOS. MAN IN CROWD (O.S.) Make ‘em fight!

BILLY That all you got?

The Referee breaks them up. Billy painfully moves around the ring. Brennan chases him.

MISKE CORNER

REDDY Atta boy!

BOXING RING

Brennan tries to cut him off. Billy quickly changes direction, but slips.

Brennan moves in and jackhammers Billy’s head.

136 FLASHBACK - MONTAGE 136

A.) Billy and Marie in the meadow, basked in moonlight.

B.) Billy kisses Marie outside her house.

C.) Marie plays tag with the boys in the backyard.

D.) Billy play fights with the boys.

E.) Billy opens the door to Marie’s hospital room and sees Donna for the first time.

F.) Marie kisses Billy’s palm, places his hand on her face.

END OF MONTAGE 107.

137 INT. OMAHA AUDITORIUM, BOXING RING - NIGHT 137

Billy on the mat, dazed, but suddenly aware of where he is now. The CROWD ROARS. The Referee hangs over him, throws up his fingers as he counts. Billy tries to comprehend. He looks over to his corner.

MISKE CORNER

Reddy is frantic.

REDDY Stay down! Stay down!

BOXING RING

Billy drifts his gaze back to the Referee.

REFEREE Five! Six!

He looks to a smiling Brennan at center ring.

Billy narrows his eyes and moves to his knees, tries to get up. He coughs blood, wipes it away as he glares at Brennan, sneers.

REFEREE (CONT'D) Seven! Eight!

He finally stands. The Referee checks him over.

REFEREE (CONT'D) Hold ‘em up.

Billy raises his gloves. The CROWD ROARS their approval.

REFEREE (CONT'D) All right?

Billy nods. The Referee moves. Brennan bursts towards Billy. Billy meets him with a heavy uppercut, catches Brennan by surprise. Brennan loses his balance, peddles backwards.

The CROWD IS OUT OF CONTROL. Billy stumbles toward Brennan.

MISKE CORNER Reddy goes from despair to elation.

REDDY Get him! 108.

RINGSIDE SEAT

Marie leaps from her seat.

MARIE Yes!

BOXING RING

Billy raises his fist for another strike as the BELL RINGS. The Referee jumps in, holds him back.

MISKE CORNER

Reddy brings Billy back to the corner. Billy holds his side, doubles over in pain. Reddy helps him onto the stool as Billy cringes, breathes hard.

REDDY What’s the good word, huh?

Billy struggles with breathing.

BILLY Water.

Reddy gives him water. Billy spits and Reddy sees the blood.

REDDY You’ve got what you came for. There’s no shame in quittin’ now.

BILLY One more round. He’s hurt.

REDDY You're dyin!

BILLY I can take him.

REDDY It’s just a payday. Don’t do it.

BILLY Sometimes, you gotta take a chance, Jack. You never know how things might end.

Reddy is filled with pity. He turns to look at Brennan in his corner. Reddy turns back to Billy.

REDDY You don’t finish him, he’ll finish you. 109.

Billy pulls himself up, leans against the corner, takes deep breaths through his nose.

REDDY (CONT'D) You’re all busted up inside. It ain’t worth dyin’ over.

BILLY Dying is the easy part. It’s the living that gets ya.

The BELL RINGS. Billy starts for center ring, but staggers back a little then steadies himself and goes.

BOXING RING

Billy and Brennan meet. Brennan jabs, catches Billy now and then. The CROWD CHEERS. Brennan throws a left hook. Billy ducks, but doesn’t counter. They circle the ring, wait for the right moment. Brennan is first. He nails Billy in the side, pushes him three feet. Billy tries to cover.

Brennan nails Billy on the other side. Billy tries to cover. Billy pushes Brennan back, but Brennan comes at him with a right hook, nails Billy hard.

REDDY(O.S.) Down! Go down, dammit!

THE CROWD

The crowd stomps the stands, screams for blood, anticipates a final battle.

BOXING RING

Brennan throws another shot at Billy’s head. Billy slips back, his forehead grazed, sends Brennan off balance.

Billy jabs Brennan in the temple then throws another shot to his chest. Brennan pops up, covers. Billy throws a shot to the gut. The CROWD ROARS. MISKE CORNER

REDDY (CONT'D) Knock that big sonofabitch out! BOXING RING

Billy sends a shot to his ribs. Brennan twists in pain and tries to return with a weak jab. 110.

Billy throws everything he has into an uppercut, catches Brennan square. Brennan’s head whips back, his arms drop, legs buckle, blood sprays. Billy finishes him off with a hard right and Brennan hits the mat.

RINGSIDE

Marie throws her hands up, cries and laughs at the same time, as the CROWD GOES WILD.

BOXING RING

The Referee hangs over Brennan.

REFEREE One! Two! Three!

Billy holds his side, blood pours down his face. He tries to blink away the pain.

Brennan rolls, confused, fumbles for his mouthpiece.

REFEREE (CONT'D) Four! Five!

RINGSIDE The CROWD GROWS LOUDER.

MARIE Six!

MISKE CORNER

Reddy pounds the mat.

REDDY Seven!

BOXING RING

Brennan tries to stand, stumbles back to the mat.

REFEREE Eight! Nine! Ten! You’re out!

The CROWD ERUPTS. Reporters storm the ring.

RINGSIDE

Marie claps enthusiastically, cries and laughs. MARIE St. Paul Thunderbolt! 111.

BOXING RING

Reddy runs out and Billy falls into his arms. He holds Billy’s head up.

REDDY Toughest sonofabitch!

Reddy kisses Billy’s sweaty head. Billy smiles through the pain, through the blood, through the sweat.

BILLY Let’s get outta here, Jack.

The ring bursts with flashbulbs as Billy raises his arm in victory.

FITZSIMMONS (O.S.) Winner by knockout: “The Saint Paul Thunderbolt” Billy Miske!

138 EXT. ST. PAUL HOUSE - DAY 138

A piano mover’s truck parks in the driveway. Marie opens the front door, crosses her arms to ward of the cold.

MARIE Billy, why is there a piano moving truck in our driveway?

Billy joins her at the door and steps out into the cold.

BILLY Early Christmas present. (to movers) Just bring it on inside, boys.

The MOVERS wave to Billy and open the back of the truck then wheel out a baby grand piano.

Billy looks back at Marie and smiles.

BILLY (CONT'D) Merry Christmas, baby.

MARIE What did you do?

139 INT. ST. PAUL HOUSE, LIVING ROOM - LATER 139 Billy signs the delivery forms and the movers exit. Billy Junior and Douglas standby wide-eyed in wonder. 112.

BILLY Thanks, fellas.

Marie runs her hand along the piano’s smooth finish, tears in her eyes, then she hits a key and it rings clear and beautiful. She laughs.

MARIE Billy, I... You shouldn’t have.

BILLY I know it’s not your grandmother’s, but now you have something to pass down to your grandchildren.

Marie goes to Billy and plants one on him. The boys hide their eyes.

MARIE Our grandchildren, champ.

Billy fakes a smile.

140 EXT. ST. PAUL HOUSE - MORNING 140

Snow lightly falls as CHILDREN’S CHEERS come from the house.

141 INT. ST. PAUL HOUSE, LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS 141

Douglas and Billy Junior sit at the Christmas tree and rummage through presents. Marie shuffles in, wipes sleep from her eyes, Donna in her arms.

MARIE Boys, wait for your father.

142 INT. ST. PAUL HOUSE, BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS 142

Marie enters. Billy is still in bed, the covers pulled tightly around him.

MARIE The boys are waiting. Are you coming?

BILLY I’ll be there in a minute. Go ahead.

She goes to him and brushes back his hair and kisses his forehead. 113.

MARIE You’re burning up.

BILLY Think I got a bug. Go ahead before they tear each other apart.

She smiles and Billy manages a weak one in return. Marie exits.

MARIE (O.S.) Okay, boys, Daddy says to go ahead.

The BOYS CHEER and Billy chuckles.

MARIE (O.S.) (CONT'D) Who’s playing Santa?

BILLY JUNIOR (O.S.) Me!

Billy tries to sit up, but coughs violently and falls back in pain. He catches his breath just as he hears the PIANO PLAY “JOY TO THE WORLD.” The BOYS AND MARIE SING and Billy listens, smiles, mouths the words.

BILLY JUNIOR (O.S.) (CONT'D) This is the best Christmas ever!

BILLY (to self) Stopping time. Stopping time.

Tears fall from his eyes.

143 INT. ST. PAUL HOUSE, LIVING ROOM - LATER 143

Wrapping paper and boxes everywhere. The boys nap among unwrapped gifts, clutch their new favorite toys. Marie cradles Donna. Billy finally shuffles in, stops to caress Donna’s head.

MARIE It’s awake. Merry Christmas. How are you feeling?

BILLY Better. Billy sits, looks at the mess and the boys asleep. Billy Junior clutches a pair of pint sized boxing gloves and Douglas holds a biplane. Billy smiles. 114.

MARIE They loved their gifts.

Billy lets out a satisfying sigh.

144 EXT. ST. PAUL HOUSE - NEXT DAY 144

Billy Junior and Douglas wrestle with building a snowman.

145 INT. ST. PAUL HOUSE, LIVING ROOM - DAY 145

A clean house, the piano in the corner. Billy and Marie stand at the window, watch Billy Junior and Douglas play in the snow. Donna coos on the couch.

MARIE What are your plans, today?

BILLY Jack’s thinking about a match with Firpo. Everybody’s talking about the Brennan fight. Strike while the iron’s hot.

Marie wraps her arms around him. They watch as Billy Junior boxes the snowman.

MARIE Did you ever think--

BILLY --No.

Billy gazes upon her and squeezes her.

BILLY (CONT'D) It’s everything.

They kiss. Billy suddenly reels back and doubles over.

MARIE What is it?

Billy falls to his knees, clutches his stomach, cries out in pain.

MARIE (CONT'D) Billy? BILLY Help me to the chair.

She tries to help him, but Billy jerks away and falls back onto the floor. 115.

MARIE Oh my God. Billy! What’s wrong?

BILLY Call Dr. Hereford. I’m dying, Marie. Call him.

MARIE What? I don’t-- Billy-- Wha--

BILLY Call him. I--

Billy passes out and Marie hurries to the phone, frantically keys the receiver.

MARIE Yes, hello. Dr. Hereford’s, please, uh-- Billy-- Uh, the number? Yes, it’s, uh--

Billy convulses and Marie drops the phone and rushes to his side, cradles his head in her arms. Donna cries.

MARIE (CONT'D) Billy? Billy? Please, God-- Billy? What do I do? Billy? I don’t know what to do!

Beyond her and Billy, through the window, Billy Junior and Douglas play in the snow.

146 INT. GYM - DAY 146

Reddy works with a YOUNG BOXER as others go through their training routines. A BOY bursts through the front door, lets in the cold. Reddy looks up, expects Billy, then frowns.

REDDY Shut that door!

The Boy shuts the door and mopes across the gym floor.

Reddy sees that the Boy is crying.

REDDY (CONT'D) What is it?

BOY Billy Miske’s dead.

Everyone in the gym stops what they are doing. Silence. Some hang their heads. Other’s look to Reddy standing there as grief and shock overcomes him. 116.

147 EXT. CEMETARY - DAY 147

A bitter winter day. Mourners gather around a fresh grave, the SOUND OF SNOW CRUNCHES beneath the feet of those walking by the grave. They stop to give their condolences to Marie.

Reddy says nothing, only nods to Marie, unable to say the words, tears freely fall as he limps away.

Dempsey lays a bouquet of holly on the tombstone. He walks over to Marie and the kids. He stoops down to Billy Junior.

DEMPSEY How ya doin, champ?

Billy Junior’s eyes never leave the ground.

DEMPSEY (CONT'D) Your daddy was the best fighter I ever saw. You remember that.

Billy Junior nods with tears in his eyes. Dempsey rubs his head then stands to face Marie. Tears stream down her face, Donna in her arms. He kisses her cheek then leaves.

148 INT. GYM - DAY 148

Fighters workout, but stop when they see Marie enter with a box.

MARIE Excuse me, I’m looking for Jack Reddy.

A FIGHTER points to the stairs.

MARIE (CONT'D) Thank you.

Marie ascends the stairs.

149 INT. GYM, REDDY’S OFFICE/ROOM - DAY 149

Reddy looks out the window. There’s a KNOCK AT THE DOOR.

REDDY Go away.

There’s ANOTHER KNOCK.

REDDY (CONT'D) Not trainin’, today. 117.

ANOTHER KNOCK. Reddy jerks himself to the door and yanks it open.

REDDY (CONT'D) What part of-- (sees it’s Marie) Uh... Come in.

Marie enters and looks around. She sees a couple posters of Billy’s fights on the wall then she turns to face Reddy.

REDDY (CONT'D) Can I get you something to drink?

MARIE What do you have?

Reddy looks around then shrugs.

REDDY Got some rye in the desk.

Marie smiles and nods. Reddy goes to the desk and pulls out a bottle and two glasses. He pours two drinks and hands one to Marie. Marie puts the box on the desk. They stand there awkwardly with their glasses for a long second.

MARIE To good memories.

Reddy nods and they touch glasses then sip. Another awkward moment of them staring at each other.

REDDY Please, sit.

Marie sits.

MARIE I was going through some of Billy’s things and--

--Reddy sighs heavily. Marie appreciates his pain.

MARIE (CONT'D) Anyway, that box is for you.

Reddy opens the box and pulls out Billy’s boxing gloves with the yellow thunderbolts inked on the cuffs. He clears his throat, stands upright, downs his drink.

REDDY I, uh, I can’t take these. 118.

Marie stands and stops him from handing the box back.

MARIE He would’ve wanted you to have them.

Reddy nods, barely keeps it together. Marie smiles warmly at him then looks around again, the posters, boxing gear, etc.

MARIE (CONT'D) He loved fighting.

REDDY Yeah.

Marie pats Reddy on the cheek.

MARIE Don’t be a stranger.

Marie exits and Reddy falls back into his chair, his head in his hand.

150 EXT. MARIGOLD GARDENS ARENA - NIGHT 150 A bustling street in Chicago. An owl perched upon the marquee that lights up the sidewalk. It reads:

“Main Event Billy Miske, Jr. vs. Eddie Pierce 8:00 PM March 1st, 1937”

151 INT. MARIGOLD GARDENS ARENA, MISKE JR. DRESSING ROOM - 151 NIGHT

BILLY JUNIOR, 19, well built, wide-eyed and naïve, sits on a table. A TRAINER tapes his hands. Billy Junior nervously shakes his foot.

THERE’S A KNOCK and Reddy, gray and hunched, enters with a big smile. He carries a paper bag.

BILLY JUNIOR Didn’t think you’d make it.

REDDY I said I’d be here. He places the bag on the table.

TRAINER I’ll see how much longer. 119.

The trainer exits.

BILLY JUNIOR My mother and Douglas come?

REDDY They’re here. Donna stayed with your grandmother, of course.

BILLY JUNIOR She thinks I’m an idiot.

REDDY What are little sisters for?

Billy Junior smiles. Reddy looks proudly at him.

REDDY (CONT'D) A big deal, a man’s first fight. Your father would have been nervous, too.

BILLY JUNIOR I don’t believe that for a second, Uncle Jack. REDDY No, it’s true.

BILLY JUNIOR Wish I could have seen him fight.

REDDY He was somethin’. And you’ll be somethin’, too.

Billy Junior knowingly smiles. He blows out some nervous energy as Reddy stands back to admire the boy fighter.

REDDY (CONT'D) Well, I better get out to my seat. You know how your mother worries.

Billy Junior smiles as Reddy goes to exit.

BILLY JUNIOR Uncle Jack, your bag.

REDDY That’s for you, kid. Good luck. Reddy exits. Billy Junior opens the bag and pulls out the boxing gloves with faded thunderbolts.

He pulls out a picture of him in a sailor suit as a kid, posing as if he’s fighting his dad. His eyes well up. 120.

The trainer returns.

TRAINER It’s time.

Billy Junior places the photo on the table then grabs the gloves and stands.

BILLY JUNIOR I’m ready.

152 INT. MARIGOLD GARDENS ARENA, CORRIDOR - NIGHT 152

Billy Junior and the trainer walk the corridor. The CROWD GROWS LOUDER.

FADE TO BLACK.

THE END