Colorful Stories by Griffin Lauerman

Chapter 1:  Silver & Grey



INT. BEDROOM, BEVERLY HILLS, CA - EVENING 1999
The muted hum of the television fills the room, casting a flickering glow on walls covered with accolades and cherished memories. The screen shows a news segment on the looming Y2K chaos. Moments later, a vibrant bumper announces tonight's music awards show at the Pantages Theater in Hollywood.


Alejandro “Lefty” Lima stands in front of a large mirror, his reflection a tapestry of triumphs and struggles etched into his features. Surrounding him are the echoes of a once-bustling life—photos of past glories, shelves lined with music awards, and a broken acoustic guitar sealed in a glass case, a relic of dreams now distant.


He runs a hand over the stubble on his chin, eyes tracing the lines that speak of time. Each wrinkle tells a story, a reminder of the road he’s traveled. Lefty feels a weight in his chest, an ache that swells with nostalgia and regret. The man he sees before him is a stranger, a blend of the boy who chased dreams and the man who learned harsh lessons.


LEFTY (whispering) How did I get this…old?


In that moment, the room fades, leaving only Lefty and the mirror, starting a silent conversation with the past. He recalls the nights spent in smoky bars, the thrill of applause, the sting of betrayal, and the moments of solitude that followed. Each memory flickers like an old film, bringing a bittersweet smile to his face.


Lefty leans closer, searching for the spark of the boy who once believed he could change the world. There’s a flicker of hope buried deep, a reminder that the journey isn’t over yet. With a deep breath, he straightens, resolve growing within him. The man he has become is just another chapter, and tonight, he might just reclaim a piece of that lost fire.
 

INT. BEDROOM - EVENING
Lefty studies the lines etched into his face, each one a testament to a life lived, joys celebrated, and heartaches endured. His aged hands rub his cheeks, fingers covering his eyes as he pulls down, sighing deeply. The weight of his thoughts hangs heavy in the air.
He runs a hand through his salt-and-pepper hair, feeling the strands that mirror his journey. Glancing back at the mirror, a flicker of determination ignites within him.


LEFTY (murmuring) I guess it’s time to face the music.


With a newfound sense of purpose, he steps away from the reflection and approaches the tuxedo laid out on the bed—a sharp black suit that feels both foreign and familiar. Each piece of fabric feels like a promise, an invitation to reclaim his place in the world he once dominated.


As he buttons his shirt, memories flood back in—moments of creativity, the inspiration that birthed some of his best songs. The heartbreak, the passion, and the late nights that birthed melodies echo in his mind. Tonight, he knows he must confront not just the audience, but himself.


Calls from another room, off-screen.
FEMALE VOICE It’s almost time to go, are you ready?


LEFTY Alright, alright… Just a few more minutes.


He finishes dressing, adjusting the bow tie with careful precision. Standing tall, Lefty takes a deep breath, the weight of the past resting on his shoulders but no longer suffocating him. He glances one last time at the mirror, seeing not just a man affected by time, but an artist ready to reclaim his voice.


With a determined nod, he turns away from the mirror and heads toward the door. Tonight is more than just an awards show; it’s a chance to reconnect with the music that once defined him.

 

Memory as a 20 yr old


INT. LIVING ROOM, FLORIDA - EVENING - 1974
Young Lefty sits at the kitchen table, a pile of bills spread before him. His mother left years ago, and his father is falling deeper into alcoholism. Lefty picks up a checkbook, signing his father’s name with a practiced hand. The phone rings, and he quickly answers it.


LEFTY Hello?


BANK REPRESENTATIVE (V.O.) Mr. Lima, this is the bank. We haven’t received your mortgage payment yet.


Lefty swallows hard.
LEFTY Hold on… Let me get my father… (Deeper voice) Hello, Yes, I sent it last week. The check… Yes, it’s in the mail, Sent it last Thursday. 


He hangs up, hurriedly stuffing the check into an envelope. As he seals it, his father stumbles into the room, a bottle of beer in hand.


FATHER Everything alright, son?


Lefty forces a smile.
LEFTY Yeah, Dad. Everything’s fine. Don’t worry about it.

 

Memory as a 20 yr old


INT. BAR, FLORIDA - NIGHTTIME - 1974
Later that night, Lefty finds himself at the bar where he plays music, the dim lighting casting shadows on the familiar faces around him. Musicians buy him beers, treating him like one of their own. A female patron sidles up to him, her eyes lingering suggestively.


FEMALE 30 YR OLD PATRON Wanna take this to the backroom Alejandro? (Unbuttoning her top button on her blouse showing more of her cleavage) Want me to show you how I make music? 


Some of the other musicians snicker.


LEFTY It’s Lefty, call me Lefty.


Lefty shakes his head, managing a polite smile.
LEFTY No thanks. This isn’t Tijuana, and NO, I’m not interested in doing that in here. I like you but this, this isn’t happening.
She frowns and pushes him out of the way as she gets out of the booth and moves on, leaving Lefty to his thoughts. His dad looks at him like he passed up a great opportunity.


FATHER What? You could’ve had some fun, son. You gotta loosen up Alejandro, otherwise some good things will pass you by.


LEFTY No way, Dad. I’m here to play guitar tonight, not make out with the la zorras.


The female patron goes and gives Lefty’s father a seductive brush with her hand on the side of his face.
Despite the adult responsibilities thrust upon him, he feels like a child lost in a world too big for him. He knows he is lucky to be included in his father’s music but sometimes wishes he could enjoy being with his friends more.

 

Memory as a kid


INT. LIVING ROOM - EVENING
Lefty’s thoughts drift back further, to when he first picked up a guitar. Despite being left-handed, he learned to play on his father's right-handed guitars. His father, unable to afford a left-handed guitar, insisted on teaching him with what they had around the house. This quirk earned him the nickname "Lefty," a moniker that stuck and became a badge of pride over the years.


LEFTY’S FATHER You’ll just have to play on of these guitars. I know, I know… it may seem backwards at first, but you’ll get it. You play with them when I’m a work? 


LEFTY (nodding) Yeah


LEFTY’S FATHER Just remember, these aren’t toys. These are very important to me. 


LEFTY Yes sir, I…  Can I take one to my room?


LEFTY’S FATHER Sure, pick out one of the acoustic guitars. (Pointing to a worn wooden guitar)


LEFTY Which one is Acoustic?


LEFTY’S FATHER There are a few over there, the one in the middle, the dark wood one. That one.

 

Memory as a 20 yr old


EXT. ORCHARDS - DAYTIME
As his thoughts drift, an empty highway unfolds in his mind—a winding stretch where an old blue Cadillac rolls past fields that alternate between barren land and those alive with farm workers. The car seems to embody his restless spirit, a vessel carrying him toward uncertain dreams. Each mile reflects his search for freedom, for understanding, and for the music that tethered him to both joy and pain.

Fade to the past…
 

 

Chapter 2: Picking Oranges

EXT. ORCHARD,  FLORIDA - AFTERNOON - 1974
The sun hangs low in the sky, casting long shadows over the sprawling orange orchard. Lefty, a lean young man with black hair and a slight five o'clock shadow, moves methodically through the rows of trees, picking up fallen oranges and placing them into a large basket. Sweat beads on his olive-skinned forehead as he works, the rhythmic sounds of nature his only companion. His deep brown eyes reflect a mix of determination and melancholy.


Ricardo, Lefty's father, a sturdy man with a weathered complexion and short, raggedy graying hair, approaches. He carries a thermos, wiping his brow with a handkerchief as he stops next to Lefty.


RICARDO Hey, how's it going?



LEFTY Almost done here. The guys are finishing up this row.



Ricardo nods, taking a sip from his thermos.

RICARDO Good. We need to head back soon. Got to get the bar ready for tonight.



LEFTY About that... I was hoping to go out with Tajo and Danny tonight. They want me to go and drive them around. We’re going downtown tonight.


Ricardo looks at Lefty, a mix of understanding and concern in his dark brown eyes.



RICARDO You sure you don’t want to play guitar tonight at the bar? I’ll let you pick the songs.



LEFTY Not tonight, Dad. We’ve been planning this for a while. Just want a night off to go out with my buddies.


Ricardo nods and smirks in acceptance.


Lefty gives his father a reassuring smile, setting his basket down. He takes off his gloves and hat, stretching his back as he looks out over the orchard. He wipes his hands on his well-worn jeans and put his arm around his father.


LEFTY It’s peaceful out here. Sometimes I think I could stay out here forever.



RICARDO Maybe, but I know you’ve got bigger dreams than all this. I don’t want to preach but…



LEFTY (shaking his head and interrupting his father) Not another lecture…please. Come on…it’s time to go. …I know dad. I know… I’ll be careful. Don’t worry.



They share a brief, meaningful look before heading back toward the old beat-up Cadillac parked at the edge of the orchard. Lefty glances back at the rows of trees, a mix of nostalgia and anticipation swirling within him.
 


EXT. STREET, FLORIDA - DUSK - 1974


An old beat-up Cadillac pulls up in front of the local post office and parks, its paint chipped and faded but still holding a certain amount of charm. The car idles for a few seconds after Lefty turns the key off. Lefty, his eyes scanning the bustling sidewalk, spots his friends approaching. With a mix of excitement and nerves, he reluctantly slides on his dark sunglasses, casting a quick glance at the dashboard as if seeking reassurance.



LEFTY (patting the car affectionately) Don't let me down this time.


Tajo and Danny hop in the car, energy crackling between them. Tajo has a small brown paper bag in his hand, and as he settles into the passenger seat, he pulls out two ski masks, tossing one to Danny in the back. Danny's grip tightens on the Remington shotgun resting on his lap, a glint of anticipation in his eyes.



DANNY (shaking the bench seat) Come on, Lefty!


LEFTY Man you guys are wired tonight. Are you sure about this?


DANNY Don’t be such a pussy! You gotta live a little. Man, instead of calling you Lefty, your dad should have called you Tightass!


Lefty turns around and give Danny a middle finger.



With a confident U-turn, Lefty revs the engine and takes off, the tires screeching slightly as they leave the post office behind. Inside the car, the trio bursts into a loud, exuberant rendition of "Rock On" by David Essex, their voices blending into a cacophony of youthful rebellion. Onlookers outside stop to stare, some chuckling, others shaking their heads at the sight of the old Cadillac barreling down the street.  


 

EXT. STREET, LIGHT TRAFFIC - NIGHTTIME


The guys pull into a parking space across from Eagle Liquor Store, tension hanging in the air like the smoke from a cigarette. They sit in the car for a moment, listening to the music as pedestrians move casually by. Tajo and Danny exchange nervous glances before hopping out and approaching Lefty’s window.


DANNY (hand firmly planted on Lefty’s shoulder) Get ready to take off as soon as we’re out.


LEFTY I got it! I know that plan.
 
Lefty feels a knot tightening in his stomach, a sense of dread creeping over him. He knows Tajo and Danny’s motivations are shallow—they want the money to go out and pick up girls. They are poor because they make very little working for their fathers, and this robbery seems like a quick fix for their problems. But Lefty can't shake the feeling that this isn't right. He feels a sickening churn in his gut as he watches his friends don their masks and enter the store.



LEFTY (Muttering to himself) How did I get myself into this?


What felt like an eternity passed—though it was barely a minute—before chaos erupts inside the store. Shouts fill the air, accompanied by the sound of shattering glass. Lefty’s heart races as he catches sight of the robbery unfolding.


LEFTY (slamming the car into gear) Come on, come on!
 
The bells on the liquor store’s door crash against the frame as Tajo and Danny barrel out, arms loaded with stolen goods. A stout, middle-aged man bursts through the entrance behind them, a gun drawn and aimed right at Lefty’s car.
Lefty’s pulse quickens. The man steadies his aim, eyes squeezed shut.


BANG! BANG! … BANG!


The bullets whiz past, striking the back of the Cadillac as it lurches forward, tires screeching against the pavement. Danny drops an expensive bottle of Tequila.


DANNY GO! GO! GO!


TAJO (yelling, exhilarated) Did you get anything?


LEFTY (anxiety clawing at him) Better question—did anyone get shot?



DANNY (grimacing, holding up a bottle of Jack, and a box of Twinkies) He got my arm. Fuck!


LEFTY (groaning, gripping the steering wheel) Arr.… I knew you two were nuts, but now we’re all wanted.


As the city blurs by outside, Lefty feels the weight of their poor decision. He hits the steering wheel a few times in frustration.


LEFTY (Looking back at Danny with anxiety) What do you want to do?


TAJO How bad is it?


LEFTY Do you think they recognized you?


DANNY (Holding his arm, blood noticeable now) How do I know! I got bigger problems here! I’m bleeding all over the place. 


TAJO Does it hurt?


DANNY What do you think? Yeah! It hurts!


LEFTY We have to take him to the hospital?


DANNY No, no way, they’ll ask too many questions.


LEFTY Well, you should have thought about that you got yourself shot. Idiot!


TAJO Next time we’ll just be more prepared.


LEFTY Next time, NEXT TIME! Really! There won’t be a next time. Not for me!


 
EXT. HOSPITAL, FLORIDA - NIGHTTIME
Lefty pull into the front area of the local hospital. Lefty leaves the car running while he and Tajo help Danny out of the backseat. A nurse and a doctor are outside smoking and come to Danny’s aid. 


At that moment a motorcycle cop in front of the hospital hears a report on the radio about a liquor store robbery and realizes the description of the car and the thieves match Lefty and his friends.


MOTORCYCLE COP (calling in over the radio) I am in pursuit of a late model blue Cadillac Coupe de Ville, two Hispanic men, possible armed & dangerous. North on I-23.


Lefty speeds down the highway as fast as the Cadillac can go. Luckily, they are only a few miles out from the state line. As soon as they get to the state line the motorcycle cop slows down and turns around. He is unable to give chase because it is out of his jurisdiction. 

 


EXT. ROADSIDE DINER - NIGHT
Pulling into a roadside diner, Lefty parks in the shadows, eyes darting around.


LEFTY (muttering, anxiety creeping in) We need a plan.


TAJO (not worried) You’re overreacting. We’re gonna be fine.

 

They head inside, the bell above the door jingling innocently.


LEFTY Can we get some sodas and a large order of fries to share, please.


They slide into a booth at the back. Lefty exhales, tension easing slightly.


LEFTY Let’s hope nobody caught our faces.


TAJO (mischievous grin spreading) Too late for that. I’m sure that clerk knew exactly who we were.


LEFTY Great!…   Man, I hope Danny’s alright.


TAJO I never thought things would go south like that. I just didn’t expect that… I’m sure we’ll be laughing about this in a few days. But geez, that was close!


With adrenaline still coursing through their veins, they wait, eyes glued to the windows, hoping for a moment of normalcy in the wake of the storm they had just unleashed.

 

EXT. A&W PARKING LOT, GEORGIA - MIDNIGHT
After the chaotic liquor store robbery, Lefty sits on the hood of his Cadillac, feeling the weight of their reckless choices. The night air is still with tension. They had retreated to this park-n-eat joint just across the street from the diner, seeking refuge but finding no solace.


LEFTY (taking a swig from the stolen bottle of whiskey that Danny left in the backseat, hands shaking slightly) We were lucky, really lucky.


TAJO (voice a mix of exhilaration and disbelief) Yeah, and lucky we were close to state line.


Tajo tears opens a Twinkie and starts to eat it.


LEFTY Let’s hope the cops have better things to do than look for us.


TAJO (unintelligible from eating the Twinkie) They don’t care about us. (He shoves the other half into his mouth)


Suddenly, the vibe shifts. The fluorescent lights above them flicker ominously, casting eerie shadows across the parking lot. Lefty looks into the distance, he thinks he can make out the outline of a man dressed in all black standing in the shadows for a split second. Lefty, shaken and feeling the weight of the moment, slides off the hood and curls up near the front bumper, lost in thought.


As he takes another swig of whiskey, a bold idea begins to form. He knows he can’t keep doing the same things with the same people in the same place forever.


LEFTY I’ve got to get out of Florida. That does it. I’ve made up my mind. If anything, this has shown that it’s time to make my way to California. Otherwise, I’ll end up doing stupid shit like this with you guys until someone get dies or goes to jail. Worse… I could end up just like my father—a lonely bar musician, always hoping for more but drinking his sad life away. I’ve gotta get my life together.


He pauses, heart pounding, as he looks at Tajo. He throws the bottle of whiskey and it smashes on the asphalt.


LEFTY I have to try. Even if I end up as a bartender in L.A., at least I’ll be where I’m supposed to be. I gotta try.
Tajo lets Lefty’s words sink in.


TAJO What are you talking about?


LEFTY I’m gonna do it. I’ve made up my mind… Tomorrow I’m driving to LA. I'm telling you… It’s time. It’s time. I can’t stay here anymore. I gotta do something with my music.


With a heavy heart, Lefty drops his buddy off in front of a local bar, feeling the finality of the moment. He takes a long look in the rear-view mirror, knowing this might be the last time he may share the same path as his friends.


As he drives away, a mix of hope and fear swirls within him. It is time to find something more.

 

INT. LEFTY’S HOME - DIMLY LIT - 1AM
Lefty creeps through the back door, heart pounding as he slips inside the darkened house. He knows his father is asleep in front of the TV, so he moves with the utmost care. In his room, he quickly grabs his guitar, fingers brushing against the familiar strings with a mix of nostalgia and urgency.
He pauses to snatch a photo off his nightstand—a snapshot of him and his father, arms around each other, smiles frozen in time. With a deep breath, he pulls a duffel bag down from the closet and begins stuffing it with clothes, each piece a reminder of home.
In the bathroom, he hurriedly packs a ditty bag with essentials, anxiety bubbling beneath the surface. He can’t leave anything behind that matters.
With the duffel bag slung over his shoulder and the guitar case in hand, he hesitates at the door, catching sight of his dad slumped on the couch, the glow of the TV flickering across his face. Next to him, the bottle of Jack sits like an unwelcome guest.
Lefty looks down for a moment, wrestling with the weight of the moment. He shrugs, a sigh escaping his lips.


LEFTY (whispering) Goodbye, Dad. I gotta go.


With one last glance, he pushes open the front door and steps into the night, ready to chase an uncertain future that awaits him.

 

EXT. HIGHWAY, FLORIDA - SUNNY, CLEAR SKIES - MORNING
Lefty grips the wheel of his old beat-up 1959 Cadillac Coupe Deville, the engine rumbling as he leaves Florida behind. He passes orchards filled with vibrant orange and grapefruit trees, their branches heavy with fruit. Migrant workers move through the fields, tending to the crops with care, reminding him of the world he's trying to escape.


As the familiar sign came into view—Leaving Florida—a smile briefly appears across Lefty’s face. It feels like a fresh start, each mile taking him away from old memories and toward new possibilities.


With only the clothes on his back, his battered acoustic guitar in the passenger seat, and a duffel bag packed with personal belongings in the back, Lefty feels light yet determined. He sings while tapping his fingers on the steering wheel to the rhythm of the tune on the radio.
His song, "Picking Oranges," played in the background, setting the tone for his journey. The driver’s side window is down, the warm breeze flowing in as he rested his arm on the windowsill. He takes a deep breath, pressing the gas pedal, feeling the Cadillac surge forward.
With the open road ahead, Lefty is ready to chase his dreams, eager for the adventures that await him.

 

 

Chapter 3: Mississippi Blue

EXT. HIGHWAY, MISSISSIPPI - EVENING - 1974
Lefty drives his beat-up Cadillac with the windows down and sunglasses on, feeling the thrill of adventure coursing through him. The 8-track labeled "The Blues All-Stars“ plays in the stereo, the soulful sounds echoing in perfect harmony with the rolling landscape. As he crosses into Mississippi, the moment feels electric.


LEFTY (to himself) This is it, Lefty. Time to experience the blues where it all started.


He pulls off the highway and navigates the streets of Jackson, eager to find a lively spot. His eyes land on TELLY'S DOWNTOWN, where a crowd is gathered outside, chatting and laughing. With a quick change into a button-down shirt, he grabs his guitar from the backseat and slings it over his shoulder. Heart racing, he crosses the street, ready to dive into the night and embrace the rhythm of blues that surrounds him.

 

INT. TELLY'S DOWNTOWN - NIGHT
The door swings open, and the energy hits Lefty like a wave. The band is in full swing, playing a smokin’ version of "Down the Line" by Robert Nighthawk & Ethel Mae. The atmosphere is dark, loud, and steamy, with laughter and music intertwining in a hypnotic dance.
A haze of smoke floats between the rotary fans and a group of smokers near the stage, creating a quintessential blues vibe. Lefty spots a waitress navigating the crowd, a tray full of drinks balanced perfectly as she heads to a table where a group of folks in linen suits and fine dresses share stories and laughter.
Lefty feels energized by the diversity of the crowd. The bar is bustling, people chatting, and he can hear the sound of clinking glasses. The joint alive with celebration and enjoyment. His eyes drift toward a small group of pretty girls standing near the stage entrance, sipping their drinks and exchanging smiles. With a deep breath, he steps further inside, ready to embrace the night ahead.


Lefty weaves through the lively crowd and leans over the bar to ask the bartender a question.


LEFTY: Is it usually this crowded?


BARTENDER It depends. Tonight’s busier than usual.


LEFTY How come?


BARTENDER (with a grin) You ever heard of Sugarcane Sutter?


LEFTY (Nods) Oh yeah! (Pointing at the ground) He’s playing here… tonight?


BARTENDER Sugarcane Sutter is doing a guest set with the house band. He pops in once or twice a month to try out his new material… 


Lefty nods, feeling the thrill of the night grow. He lifts his drink with his left hand in a gesture of thanks, dropping a couple of dollars on the bar. Taking a sip, he feels the smooth whiskey wash over him, blending perfectly with the vibrant energy surrounding him. He glances around, soaking in the scene—the laughter, the music, the buzz of at seeing Sugarcane Sutter for the first time.
As the house band finishes their set, the curtain closes, and anticipation hangs in the air. The announcer steps out, a short black guy in a shiny hunter green suit that glimmers under the stage lights.
The announcer launches into a series of dirty jokes. He continues with a few impressions nailing a spot-on Dizzy Gillespie impersonation followed by a hilarious skit of Sammy Davis Jr trying to talk to Wilt Chamberlain. The crowd laughs, but they are restless. It’s obvious they are waiting for the main attraction to take the stage.


ANNOUNCER Let’s get real serious for a moment people. The real reason we’re all here isn’t for me to make you laugh or make you smile, cuz I could do that all night. You’re here to listen to this man… A man who plays so sweet, they had to call him “sugarcane”. Oh Yeah! Now, without further ado, here is… Sugarcane Sutter and the Telly Blues Breakers!


The audience erupts into applause. Lefty can feel the energy surging through him as the ladies in the crowd move closer to the stage, all eyes fixed on the curtain, waiting for the man they’d all come to see.

 

INT. TELLY’S DOWNTOWN - NIGHTTIME
The show starts with a slow, low Hammond organ note. A single high-pitched note cuts through the dark, and the band is illuminated through the smoky ambiance. The spotlight focuses on the guitar in Sugarcane’s hands. Sugarcane, a slightly stocky man with short, raggedy graying black hair and a well-groomed mustache and goatee, tears through the B flat scale and rests his guitar for a second. His vocals softly lay on top of the guitar playing. He sings another phrase, and the rest of the band joins in. They do a double stop rest, and he growls out a line about love and heartbreak.


Lefty finishes his drink and is drawn closer to the stage. His eyes are transfixed on the guitar—a Honeyburst Gibson Les Paul with polished hardware. As he gets closer, he can see the nicks, chips, and scratches in it. He looks at Sugarcane’s face, and it matches the guitar. They seem made for each other. Lefty feels a connection with Sugarcane, sensing they both have the same ability to go with the music, to find the "flow" and ride that sensation. It's a unique feeling that few musicians ever experience, and Lefty can see it in Sugarcane's face as he plays the guitar with passion and emotion.


Lefty stands in the same spot for a few minutes before moving up against the stage. This catches the attention of the harp player, an old black guy with grey hair, a little overweight, wearing blue jeans and a grey blazer. The harp player nudges Sugarcane, says a few words in his ear, and points at the kid in the front row.


Sugarcane notices the guitar strapped to Lefty’s back.


SUGARCANE You've got that guitar on for a reason. My bet is you've got a few songs in you, don't ya, kid? Well, it’s a tradition here at The Telly to pull anyone up brave enough to come in here with an instrument onto the stage, so… get up here kid and show us what you got! You’re brave… aren't ya?


The harp player extends a hand, and Lefty climbs onto the stage. Lefty looks around to get his bearings. He shakes Sugarcane hand in a nervous way.


SUGARCANE What song you wanna play, kid?


LEFTY Malted Milk… how bout’ Malted Milk.


SUGARCANE Oh, yeah, that’s a classic! Boys, let’s give... (In a lower tone) what’s your name, kid?


LEFTY My name is Lefty Lima!


SUGARCANE Let's give Lefty here some room to play.


Someone brings out a stool from backstage, and Lefty perches himself on it. He tunes his guitar a bit, adjusts the microphone, and starts playing. It's rocky at first, but he finds his footing after a few seconds. He sings, "Malted milk, malted milk..." as his guitar accompanies him perfectly. He adds hammer-ons and pull-offs, and the crowd quickly lights up. He feels the crowd's energy rising as the song builds, and by the end, he knows they're on his side.


As the crowd applauds, Sugarcane speaks into the microphone:
SUGARCANE That was pretty good kid. Now… Let’s hear it for Lefty Lima and his rendition of 'Malted Milk’!


He pulls Lefty aside from the center of the stage and whispers:
SUGARCANE You wanna keep playing with us, kid? Give me a song the whole band can play.


LEFTY Okay, but if you really want me to play, I need to borrow an electric guitar.


SUGARCANE retrieves his white Stratocaster from the side of the stage and hands it to Lefty.


Lefty takes the 50s Stratocaster from Sugarcane, feeling the weight and power of the instrument in his hands. He strums a few chords to get a feel for it, then nods to Sugarcane. The band looks at Lefty, waiting for his cue.


LEFTY (into the microphone) How about we start with 'Crossroads'?


SUGARCANE (grinning) A bold choice, kid. Let's do it! Boys, follow his lead.


Lefty counts off, and the band kicks into a driving rhythm. As they play, Lefty's nerves melt away, replaced by the sheer joy of making music. His fingers fly over the strings, delivering blistering solos and soulful bends. Sugarcane looks over at the harp player with a knowing look.
The crowd is electrified, cheering and clapping along. Lefty and Sugarcane trade solos, pushing each other to new heights. By the time they finish "Crossroads," the audience is on their feet, roaring with approval.


SUGARCANE (stepping up to the mic, grinning from ear to ear) How about that, folks? Lefty Lima, everybody!


The applause is deafening. Lefty beams, his heart pounding with exhilaration.


SUGARCANE (leaning in close) Got another one in you, Lefty?


LEFTY How about 'Sweet Home Chicago'?


SUGARCANE Perfect choice. You heard the man. Let's give it to ‘em!


The familiar blues riff fills the air, and Lefty launches into the song with confidence, maybe too much confidence.  His voice is strong, his playing good but a bit overzealous. The band falls into a tight groove, and Lefty tears into screaming solos over the top off them breaking the blue vibe that they had fallen into. 
As they play, Lefty loses himself in the music. He get a bit self-absorbed and Sugarcane has to reign him back in, with a hand on the shoulder. 


The band runs through a set of classic blues tunes, each song building on the energy of the last. "The Thrill is Gone," "Hoochie Coochie Man," and "Stormy Monday" flow seamlessly from one to the next. Lefty and Sugarcane share the spotlight, highlighting their individual styles. 
By the end of the set, the crowd is wild with applause and cheers. Lefty feels like he's floating, the adrenaline coursing through his veins has made him feel invincible. Sugarcane steps up to the mic one last time.


SUGARCANE Let's hear it one more time for Lefty Lima! 

This kid has got a bright future ahead. 


The applause is thunderous. Lefty takes a bow, feeling like he's on top of the world. Sugarcane wraps an arm around his shoulders.


SUGARCANE (only loud enough for Lefty to hear) You’re pretty good, kid. 


LEFTY Thanks, Sugarcane. I’ve never feel so alive.


The crowd slowly disperses, leaving the club buzzing with the echoes of excitement from the night’s performance. Lefty stands on the stage, still holding the Stratocaster, a dazed smile on his face. He watches as Sugarcane and the band pack up their instruments, feeling a sense of camaraderie and belonging he’s never felt before. Energized, Lefty reaches a part of his abilities he wasn't sure was there.
As he steps off the stage, the bartender, a tall man with a friendly face and a well-worn apron, approaches him.


BARTENDER Hey there, Lefty. That was some set you played tonight. Where do you usually play?


LEFTY Florida, but I’m just passing through really. I’m on my way to California.


Sugarcane comes over and gets a glass of water at the bar. He finds Lefty and pulls him aside.


SUGARCANE Listen kid, take what I say with a much admiration as you can, but you’ve gotta pull it back sometimes. You can’t play like you’re on full tilt all the time. There’s a time for that kind of voodoo and then there’s a time to find the pocket. You know…the pocket. You know what I’m sayin' right? Where the music plays you. You were almost there. That magic can be yours if you learn to temper that fire in you.


LEFTY I thought we sounded great. The audience was into it…weren’t they? 


SUGARCANE Yeah kid, they were, but if you play for the audience, you aren’t playing the blues. You’re just showing off. You've got to feel the music. It's in there (Pointing at Lefty heart) I know it is. 


Next to him at the bar is a man in a well-tailored maroon suit. It is complimented with a black dress shirt and a red tie. He too acknowledges Lefty’s great talent with guitar.


MAN IN MAROON SUIT Do you ever think about making it in the big time? With your talents, you could be in the big leagues tomorrow.


LEFTY You really think so. I hope it happens someday.


SUGARCANE Kid…If you’re were willing to stay in Jackson, play with me once or twice a week, I could get the kinks in your playing worked out. I’ll teach you the blues and help you FEEL the music…in there (Poking him in the gut)


LEFTY Wow, Yeah… if you think it’ll make me a better guitar player, I'm willing to give it a try.


MAN IN MAROON SUIT He doesn’t need that. He’s good to go now. Listen Lefty, come with me out to LA. I’ll set you up with a killer band, give you a sweet deal at my record company. 


He looks Lefty right in the eyes and grins, with a sinister smirk:
MAN IN MAROON SUIT Don’t waste your talents in small places, with small people, who have small ideas. I can hook you up. 

Here’s my card.
The card reads "Dean Sweet, Acquisitions and Transactions. 999-666-4321“


DEAN SWEET I can take you places.


Lefty takes the card, without looking at the details and puts it in his back pocket.


LEFTY Thanks, I’ll think about it.


SUGARCANE (addressing the bartender) Mike, do you think you could find a place for my talented friend Lefty. He is thinking about sticking around for a bit.


MIKE, THE BARTENDER Yeah, I can set him up as a bar back. He can play guitar with the band whenever he wants and you can watch over him when you're in town. 


SUGARCANE Oh, I’ll be watching this kid. You bet… I’ll make sure he stays in line. He won’t be playing guitar with me for long if he doesn’t.


MIKE, THE BARTENDER Alright, What do you say kid, want the job? 


LEFTY Yeah, Sounds good. 


DEAN SWEET Well, sounds like you’ve got a previous engagement. But Lefty… You’ve got my card now, you know how to find me. Just call if you want my help. 


LEFTY Thanks, I’ll keep that in mind.

 

INT. TELLY'S DOWNTOWN - NIGHTTIME
One year later. Lefty, now a familiar face at TELLY'S, plays to an enthusiastic crowd with Sugarcane on a regular basis. His skills have been tempered, and his wild tendencies have been tamed. The club has become a second home to him. The staff, the band, and the regulars have become like family to Lefty. Sugarcane has become a mentor to Lefty over the year.


After an electrifying set, Lefty walks off stage sits at the bar with MIKE, the BARTENDER, who has become a close friend and confidant.


LEFTY Mike, gotta sec?


MIKE What's on your mind, Lefty?


LEFTY I’ve been talking to Sugarcane lately and I think…it’s time… it’s time for me to move on. It’s time for me to head out west to LA.


Mike nods, a knowing smile on his face.
MIKE I figured that’s what this was about. Lefty, you’re too talented to stay in a place like this forever. We’ve all known that. It’s time for you to go and make your mark.


LEFTY You know…this place means a lot to me. You guys have all made me feel so welcomed this past year. I really needed a place I could call home… you know…after leaving Florida. And that’s what this place was, a second home.

 


Chapter 4: Golden Hour

EXT. HIGHWAY, BATON ROUGE, LA - SUNSET - 1975
Lefty pulls his car off the road, the engine idling. He unfolds a worn map onto his hood, tracing his finger along the highways, considering his route to California carefully. The open road calls to him, promising adventure and new experiences. The sun casts a warm amber glow over the landscape making the road ahead look inviting.


LEFTY (murmuring to himself) Hmm. Next stop, Austin.


He envisions the vibrant Country music scene there and the chance to meet fellow musicians. After Austin, he plans to head toward New Mexico, detouring through Santa Fe to soak in the Latin culture. He loves the idea of exploring the adobe buildings and the desert landscapes. Finally, he aims for Arizona, eager to witness the Grand Canyon before crossing into California.


He folds the map with a grin, feeling the thrill of the journey ahead. He pops in an 8track Best of the Beach Boys and heads towards the horizon. With a final glance at the fading sun, Lefty slides back into his seat, turning the key in the ignition, and pulling back onto the highway.

 

EXT. CADILLAC RANCH, AMARILLO, TX - DAY
Lefty pulls into the gravel lot, excitement bubbling inside him as he spots the colorful Cadillacs half-buried in the earth. He steps out of his car, the Texas sun beating down. He takes a moment to soak it all in, admiring each car, a vibrant canvas of graffiti. A local admirer notices Lefty’s Cadillac and approaches him.


LOCAL ADMIRER Ever think about selling that beauty? It’s a 1959 right?


LEFTY That’s right. And no. I couldn’t. It’s the only car I’ve ever owned.  


LOCAL ADMIRER I’d pay you in cash.


LEFTY Nah. I love this car.


As he wanders closer to the cars, he hears laughter nearby. Turning, he notices a group of young people, one girl standing out in particular. She has long, sun-kissed blond hair and light blue eyes sparkling with mischief. 
She is KIVA.


Kiva is busy capturing the scene with her camera, bending down into unusually angles, playing with the sunlight and shadows. Her joyful interactions with the Cadillacs mesmerizing. Summoning his courage, Lefty approaches her.


LEFTY Hey! Looks like you know what you’re doing with that camera, and I don’t usually tell people what to do… but you should see my car.


Lefty points toward his Cadillac.


Kiva turns, she lets out a burst of nervous laughter.
KIVA Thanks! It’s hard to take a bad picture here. 

These cars are amazing!


LEFTY Absolutely. I’m a huge fan of old Cadillacs.


KIVA (noticing Lefty’s car in the distance) I can tell!… Are you here just to see the Ranch? Or are you here with friends?


LEFTY No, by myself. I stopped to look around and to soak in some of that Texas twang. I love music, country music, well all kinds of music really… and barbecue. I love good barbecue. What about you?


KIVA Just hanging out with friends (holding up he camera) taking pictures. You should join us for a few shots!


Before Lefty can respond, Kiva steps back and frames him in her camera, snapping a few candid shots. Lefty laughs, feeling both shy and exhilarated under the lens.


LEFTY I bet you’ve got a great eye for this.


KIVA Thanks! I love capturing the spirit of places. And you fit right in with all this color.


LEFTY You should see my guitar, I bet it’d look good in your pictures too.


As they talk, Lefty finds himself captivated by Kiva's charm, the way her eyes dance with excitement, and how her laughter seems to echo through the art installation.


KIVA your guitar? So you’re a musician? I should have known when you brought up music. 


LEFTY Hold it, I’ll be right back… (Lefty jaunts over to the car and gets the guitar out of the back) here…, I don’t go anywhere without it. 


KIVA Ok, yeah, that looks good…. Alright… Go ahead, sing me a song… cowboy. 


As she snaps photos, Lefty realizes that this unexpected connection is turning a simple stop into an unforgettable moment. He thinks to himself, how can I see more of this girl? They flirt and move around the installation, until Kiva runs out of film.


KIVA That was my last shot. Well… that was fun. Anyone tell you’re pretty good in front of of a camera. 


LEFTY nope… never… Hey, Do you want to grab a bite to eat after this? Find some of that Texas barbecue I’ve heard so much about.

Kiva nods her head and touches Lefty's arm. She signals to her friends that it's time to leave.

 

INT. MIDPOINT CAFÉ - ROUTE 66 - DAY
Lefty meets Kiva at the Midpoint Café. They sit at a booth, Kiva and her friends teasing him about his unique Southern/Cuban accent. Lefty laughs, appreciating their humor. Kiva has an Irish accent that has softened over the years being in America. She says his name in her full Dublin accent, making him smile, showing the dimples in his cheeks. He covers his face with his hands, feeling shy.


KIVA So, you’re a musician? That’s interesting. What’s your secret? What makes a good song?


KIVA’S FRIEND I like Paul McCartney, he writes some good songs.


KIVA’S OTHER FIREND Jim Croce is where it’s at.


Lefty smiles thoughtfully, explaining his theory about music
LEFTY I feel… Well, It is really hard to say. I mean, there’s so many good songs, so many… but to me… the best songs tell a story, they take you somewhere you haven’t been or maybe express a feeling you didn’t know you had buried inside. I dunno… That’s what makes a good song in my book.


The group nods their heads in agreement, without much to say in return.


LEFTY I guess… I just want to write songs that tell stories, you know? Songs that capture real emotions, that people feel deep in their souls. There’s a lot of stories in here (points to his head) that I need to tell and I think songs, uh music is my way of doing that. You know some people, they paint pictures, some people write poetry, some people take photos (acknowledging Kiva) but my thing is music. 


KIVA I get that. Music is powerful. It can really express things we can’t normally talk about. Heck, ever time I hear I Honestly Love you by Olivia Newton-John, I just tear up. Don’t know why. It’s just speaks to me.


This breaks Kiva and Lefty’s eye contact. Kiva looks down for a second. The group notices the connection between them and the friends decide to leave the booth.

 

EXT. MIDPOINT CAFÉ - ROUTE 66 - DAY
After their chat, Kiva suggests they take a picture in front of the iconic Route 66 sign. Lefty grabs his guitar and sunglasses out of his car, striking a pose that feels both natural and aspirational. As she snaps the photo, he senses the weight of the moment—it becomes a symbol of his journey.


KIVA What’s next? Do you have a plan? You don’t have a plan do you? You’re just driving…

You're a loner aren't you? Is that your thing… It's just Lefty against the world isn't it? 


LEFTY No, I'm not… like that.

I have a plan… sorta… Santa Fe is my next stop. (Looking down at the ground sheepishly) Was gonna see… (trailing off, voice low)


KIVA (taking a step closer to Lefty) I think you should come to Shamrock. It’s pretty nice.


LEFTY Is that in Ireland? I really can be going to Ireland right now. I’m supposed to drive all the way to California. My buddy Sergio is expecting me any day now.


KIVA (taking another step closer to Lefty) No, I, it’s a town in Texas. It’s where I live. 


LEFTY Oh! …And I can stay there? You want me to stay there…


KIVA (taking one more step closer to Lefty) Listen… I work at a pub downtown, there’s music, and dining, and some of my family are there.

Well, I was just thinking. You know… since you don’t have a place to stay… Oh, and lodging above the restaurant. That you could…


LEFTY And we’d see more of each other? 


KIVA (right up against Lefty) Yeah, that’s the plan dummy.


They kiss.

 

EXT. IRISH PUB, SHAMROCK, TX - DAY - 1975
Lefty and Kiva travel to Shamrock, TX where Kiva resides. Lefty decides to stay and get a job in town, drawn to the town by his connection with Kiva. He soon finds himself immersed in the heart of its musical soul—the Irish Pub. This establishment becomes a sanctuary where his passion for music can flourish.


Working amidst nightly music and folksy entertainment, Lefty is enchanted by the sounds and stories that surround him. The atmosphere fuels his creativity, inspiring him to write love songs and explore new musical horizons. He is enamored with Kiva, writing several love songs while wooing her.


Lefty tells Kiva about his passion for performing on stage and writing music. When he isn’t running food back and forth to dining tables or serving drinks, he joins the Irish band in rousing late nights of festive frivolity.
Lefty experiences new musicians who have a different way of playing. They view music as a heritage, a way of passing down stories, family histories, or folktales.

 

INT. IRISH PUB - NIGHT
The pub is alive with music and laughter. Lefty sits at a corner table, nursing a pint of Guinness. Liam, an older man with graying brown hair and a jovial demeanor, is on stage with his fiddle, leading a group of musicians through a lively Irish tune. The band consists of a guitarist, a bodhrán player, a bouzouki, and a concertina player. The music is infectious, drawing cheers and claps from the patrons.


Lefty watches in awe as Liam’s fingers fly over the strings of his fiddle, producing a melody that is both intricate and soulful. The band follows his lead, creating a rich tapestry of sound that fills the pub.


As the song ends, Liam spots Lefty and waves him over.
LIAM Lefty, lad! Come join us!


Lefty grins and grabs his guitar, making his way to the stage. He joins the band, tuning his guitar as Liam introduces him to the crowd.


LIAM This here is Lefty Lima, all the way from Florida. He’s got a real gift for music, so let’s give him a warm welcome!


The crowd cheers, and Lefty feels a rush of excitement. Liam starts a new tune, a slower, more melancholic song, and Lefty follows along, adding his own bluesy flair to the Irish melody. The combination of styles creates a unique and mesmerizing sound.
As they play, Lefty feels a deep connection to the music and the musicians around him. Liam’s fiddle weaves in and out of the melody, while the flutist and concertina player add layers of harmony. The bodhrán player keeps a steady, rhythmic beat, grounding the music in a powerful pulse.


After the song ends, Liam turns to Lefty with a twinkle in his eye.
LIAM You’ve got the spirit, lad. Now we gotta teach you some the songs from the Old Country.


LEFTY (joking around) Oh Danny Boy! The pipes, the pipe are calling.. Ha! I’d love that!


For the next few hours, Lefty immerses himself in the world of Irish music. Liam teaches him about counterpoint and music theory, expanding Lefty's understanding and appreciation of the genre. They play a mix of jigs, reels, and ballads, each song telling a story of love, loss, and celebration.


The camaraderie among the musicians is palpable. They share stories and jokes between songs, their laughter mingling with the music. Lefty feels a sense of belonging here.


During a break, Liam offers Lefty a pint of Guinness, and they sit together, watching the other musicians continue to jam.
LIAM (putting his arm around Lefty) You’ve got a real talent, lad. You play from the heart, and that’s a rare thing.


LEFTY Thanks, Liam. That’s kind of you to say. I’ve never experienced anything like this music before. It’s got such sorrow, such sadness. But it’s beautiful and joyful at the same time.


LIAM If you get all that just from our music, then music really is a universal language. It’s all about connecting people, sharing stories, and finding joy in the moment, even if that moment is total shit.


LIAM Do they play like this in Cuba?


LEFTY (nods, then shrugs his shoulders) Don’t know, never been. But they play some mean blues in Mississippi. And Florida, well, Florida… I just played whatever I was asked to play. Mostly other people’s songs.


As the night goes on, Lefty and the band continue to play, the music flowing effortlessly. Lefty’s playing becomes more confident, and he starts to experiment with blending blues and Irish elements, creating a unique sound that captures the attention of everyone in the pub.
The night ends with a rousing rendition of “Whiskey in the Jar,” the entire pub joining in for the chorus. Lefty feels a deep sense of satisfaction and joy, knowing that he’s found a new musical family in Shamrock.

 

INT. IRISH PUB - LATE NIGHT
The stage at the Irish Pub is bathed in warm light. Lefty, his acoustic guitar slung comfortably over his shoulder, exchanges a smile with Kiva as they prepare to perform together. The pub is filled with eager anticipation, murmurs of excitement mingling with the soft clinking of glasses.
They take their places on stools center stage, facing each other with a shared sense of anticipation. Lefty strums a few chords, setting the rhythm, while Kiva adjusts the microphone stand with a nervous giggle that is quickly soothed by Lefty's reassuring grin.


LEFTY This is a song from the old country. At least that’s what I’ve been told.


As they launch into the song, their voices intertwine in a harmony that seems almost effortless. Lefty's voice, rich with the nuances of his southern upbringing, blends seamlessly with Kiva's clear, melodious tones. The song they chose is an old Irish folk tune call Easy and Slow, a tale of love lost and found again, its lyrics woven with longing and hope.


The pub falls silent, captivated by the duo's heartfelt rendition. Each verse resonates with emotion, evoking memories of distant shores and the ache of parted lovers. Lefty's fingers dance over the strings of his guitar, weaving intricate melodies that mirror the ebb and flow of the song's narrative.


Kiva's eyes sparkle with intensity as she sings, her voice rising and falling with each verse like a gentle tide. Lefty watches her with admiration, marveling at how effortlessly she captures the essence of the song's story. Their connection on stage is palpable, a testament to the chemistry they had discovered in each other's company.


As they approach the final chorus, their voices swell together, filling the pub with a bittersweet longing that hangs in the air like the scent of peat smoke. The audience, moved by the authenticity of their performance, erupts into applause as the last notes fade into silence.
Lefty and Kiva exchange a look of shared accomplishment, their smiles radiant with the joy of having shared a moment of musical magic. They knew that this was just the beginning of a journey filled with songs, stories, and the unbreakable bond they had forged through music and love.

 

EXT. SHAMROCK, TX - MORNING - SUMMER 1976
It's the summer of 1976, and the excitement of the United States Bicentennial is in the air. Lefty and Kiva decide to take a road trip to Washington to see the Bicentennial Parade featuring Johnny Cash. Lefty is driving Kiva’s uncle delivery van with the pub logo on the doors. He is seen putting his personal belonging in the back, along side a couple of sleeping bags, a tent and cooking stove and of course his guitar.


LEFTY Got all your stuff packed?


KIVA smiles, her eyes wide with excitement.
KIVA Absolutely. I’ve never been to Washington before and seeing The Beach Boys? It’s going to be far out.


LEFTY Listen babe, I’m not even sure they’re gonna be there on the forth. Right now, it’s just a hot tip Sergio got from one of the guys in his band in LA. 


Kiva Either way, I’m ready for some adventure.


The open road stretches out before them as they drive through picturesque landscapes, from rolling hills to bustling small towns decorated with flags and Bicentennial memorabilia. Everywhere they go, there’s a palpable sense of patriotism and celebration. The radio is equipped with a cassette player in the console. Lefty puts in an Eagles tape to set the mood.


As they cruise down the highway, they pass groups of hippies and travelers, many of whom are also heading to Washington for the concert. People are holding American flags out the windows of their cars as they drive down the freeway.


KIVA It’s incredible how much pride people have in this country. I’ve never seen anything like it. It’s certainly not like this back home.


LEFTY Yeah, it’s pretty cool. Growing up, my parents always talked about the American dream. And coming from Cuba, they were so grateful for any opportunities they found here. I never understood it really… picking oranges didn’t seem it opened a lot of doors for them, but I guess it was better than where they came from. We didn’t talk bout it much.


Kiva reaches over and squeezes his hand.
KIVA Sure.. but look at you now. You’re living that dream, their dream. Maybe this is what they hoped for. You following your dreams.


LEFTY Maybe… 
What about you? Do you feel like you belong in here… in America?


KIVA Sometimes… Sometimes I feel like this is the place for me, but then there are times when I miss my family. To be honest, I always pictured myself growing old there, with my grandkids. There are certainly things I love about America…the weather…the people…You.


LEFTY I get it! I have a unique perspective, I guess. proud to be Cuban, but proud to be American too. It’s overwhelming, sometimes. I don’t always feel like I fit in. But I grew up here, so…it’s my home.

 

EXT. WASHINGTON, DC - AFTERNOON
After hours of driving, they finally arrive in Washington, D.C. The city is alive with energy, bustling with people from all walks of life, all here to celebrate the Bicentennial. They find a parking spot for the van near the parade route. The smell of food cooking on portable grills permeates the street. The sound of laughter fills the air and mixes with the sound of high school bands playing John Philip Sousa Marches near by.


KIVA Can you believe this? Look at all the people. (Pointing) Who is that supposed to be?


A guy dressed as Uncle Sam on stilts walks by. He is juggling red, white, and blue bowling pins.


LEFTY Yeah, it’s something else. Let’s get settled and then we can explore a bit.


The couple make their way to the parade route. The scent of marijuana and the sound of cheerful chatter permeate the streets. People are holding sparklers and banners that read, “America the Beautiful" and “God Bless the USA”. Kiva is a wearing a red, white and blue crochet top. Lefty buys a t-shirt from a nearby vendor. The shirt has a 76 surrounded by stars on it. He strip off his traditional white t-shirt and puts it on the newly acquired shirt.


Lefty and Kiva get a glance at Johnny Cash as he is starting his set near the Washington Monument, and the crowd erupts in cheers. When the music starts and the couple stop and watch for a few songs. Lefty and Kiva walk down the national mall near the reflecting pool while eating cotton candy. 


After the concert, there is an enormous display of fireworks unlike anything either had ever seen over the Capitol. Lefty and Kiva look up at the fireworks as the flashes of light color their faces.

 

EXT. THE CELLAR DOOR, WASHINGTON DC - LATE NIGHT
Following up on Sergio’s tip, Lefty and Kiva go to nightclub near 34th & M Street called The Cellar Door. There they find a bouncer protecting the front door from entry. 


LEFTY I think it’s up here. Look there’s a line.


Holding Kiva’s hand and pulling her along. Kiva holds her long skirt to side and she tries to keep up with Lefty.


LEFTY Is there a show here tonight?


BOUNCER I don’t know. (Looking around) Is there?


LEFTY Whatcha mean you don’t know? People are in there…


BOUNCER Yeah, but they knew what to say to me.


LEFTY What does that mean? Do you want a bribe…are you looking for a tip? 


BOUNCER Wouldn’t hurt? …. PASSWORD, I need the password.


Lefty starts fumbling around in his pockets for a 20 dollar bill.


BOUNCER (Annoyed) Geez… Here’s a clue nimrod… Who was the 5th Beatle? 


KIVA You know right? I mean, you’d know more than I’d know. Did Sergio tell you?


BOUNCER Come on… What’s the name of the 5th Beatle?


LEFTY (looking anxious) Damn, I know this. Um… Stu… Stuart Sutcliffe. 


BOUNCER SHHH! Not so loud. It’s supposed to be a secret show. That was not the answer I was looking for, but… I’ll give it to you. 


LEFTY (looking surprised but relived) Really!


BOUNCER The answer was Pete Best, he was the drummer before Ringo.


LEFTY Oh right… Yeah, I get that.

 

INT. THE CELLAR DOOR, WASHINGTON DC - LATE NIGHT
The couple enter the club. It is filled with Washington socialites, music industry people, hippies, and devoted rock fans. It is a dark and expansive club. There are roughly a hundred people inside leaving a lot of open space.


People in the background: …saw them in Tennessee a few years ago. Was Brian Wilson there? 
People in the background: …in Philadelphia tomorrow.


KIVA Look, look! There’s a piano set up. Ooooh!


LEFTY Yeah!… You know what that means?


KIVA (in the voice of a southern belle) Well yes I do!
(Bowing and putting her hands together) You taught me well, Sensei.


They look around for a couple of seconds…   Johnny Cash walks in and stands in the back of the club.
The house lights go off suddenly. An orange spotlight shines down onto the stage where the piano player would sit. The house music stops. Some small microphone clicks… a little static…


Brian Wilson comes out from the left side of the stage and sits down at the piano.  He plays the song The Warmth of the Sun… It starts out with just piano until about halfway through the song Glen Campbell comes out with a second spotlight on. They finish the song and three more members of the Beach Boys come out from the right side of the stage. A Fender Rhodes starts chipping with chords and they band breaks into Good Vibrations.  


They return to their tent at the campground, with many people settling down for the night. The stars shine brightly above, casting a soft glow over everything. They lay on their sleeping bags, listening to the distant sound of Pink Floyd playing from a neighboring tent. The music is soothing, creating a perfect backdrop for the moment.


KIVA I love you, Lefty. I shouldn’t, but I do.


LEFTY I love you too, Kiva. I know, I know you can’t get serious. I know.


KIVA You know I’m going back. We want different things. You want to be a rock star, and I… I know I don’t want. I… I don’t know what I want.


Under the vast expanse of the night sky, they make love for the first time, the music weaving a tapestry of memories they will cherish forever.
As they lie in each other’s arms, Kiva sighs contentedly.


LEFTY Here’s to many more adventures together.


He breaks out a flask from his bag and hands it onto Kiva. Lefty sits up slowly, reaching for his guitar and journal. Kiva watches him with a curious smile.
KIVA What are you doing, love?


LEFTY Hold on Babe! I’ve got some lyrics in my head. I need to write them down before I forget. (Scribbling in a notebook)


KIVA Right now? You thought about them right now, like buck-naked right now?


LEFTY Let’s just say, I was inspired by the moment.


She presses up against his shirtless back while he strums the guitar. He jots down the title, "Golden Hour." The melody forms in his mind, a blend of the rich harmonies he admires so much.


As they drift off to sleep under the stars, the sounds of the Bicentennial celebration echo around them, a testament to their journey and the love they share. The memory of this road trip, their night under the stars, and the spirit of 1976 will remain with them forever.

 


Chapter 5: A Purple Rose in Her Hair

INT. SMALL APARTMENT, SHAMROCK, TX - DAY - 1978
A year and six months of blissful harmony have passed for Lefty and Kiva in Shamrock, TX. They have settled into a rhythm of working at the Irish Pub by day and sharing their music by night, their bond deepening with each passing moment. The sun filters through the curtains, casting a haze throughout the cozy apartment. Lefty strums his guitar softly, while Kiva hums along, sitting nearby with a sketchpad.


Kiva, a slender and athletic woman with long, pale blond hair often worn in a practical updo, is making a grocery list for a trip to Thriftway Market. Her hazel eyes, sparkle with intelligence and warmth as she concentrates on the list. She absentmindedly twists a strand of hair around her finger, a few freckles scattered across her nose and cheeks giving her a youthful appearance.


KIVA Lefty, can you take out the garbage before we leave? And don’t forget this time, I’m almost done with the grocery list.


LEFTY I'm on it!


Lefty, a tall and lean man with slightly muscular build, sets his guitar aside and heads to the kitchen. He grabs the garbage bag and ties it up. Kiva glances up from her list, watching him with a smile as he heads out the door. She continues to write, her delicate scar on her left eyebrow barely visible as she frowns in concentration.


Kiva’s bohemian-style clothing—flowing dresses, patterned scarves, and lots of jewelry—adds to her free-spirited aura. She jots down the last item on the list, satisfied with her planning. Just as Lefty re-enters, the phone rings, shattering their peaceful routine. Kiva answers the call, her brow furrowing slightly as she listens intently to the voice on the other end.


It's her 12-year-old sister from Ireland, her tone urgent and filled with concern. As Kiva's eyes widen with shock, Lefty senses something is wrong. He approaches her quietly, a wave of apprehension washing over him.


Kiva hangs up the phone, her hands trembling slightly. She turns to Lefty, her voice choked with emotion.
KIVA Lefty, it's my mother. She's sick. My sister says I need to come home to take care of her. I guess she had surgery earlier this week. I have to leave for Ireland immediately.


Lefty's heart sinks at the news, his thoughts turning to Kiva's homeland and the family she had left behind. He takes her hands gently in his, offering her a reassuring squeeze.
LEFTY We'll go together. I'll come with you to Ireland.


Kiva nods gratefully, tears glistening in her eyes. They spend the next few days planning their trip, notifying the pub and preparing for the journey across the ocean.

 

INT. IRISH PUB - NIGHTTIME
On the eve of their departure, the pub hosts a farewell gathering in their honor. Local musicians and regular patrons gather to bid them farewell, their voices raised in song and heartfelt toasts offered in their honor. Lefty strums his guitar, his melodies echoing through the crowded pub, mingling with the laughter and shared memories of their time together.


The atmosphere is bittersweet. Friends embrace them, offering words of encouragement and promises to keep in touch. Lefty and Kiva find solace in the support of their newfound community.


UNCLE You two have been the heart and soul of this place for the last  few years. We'll miss you!


PATRON Don't forget us when you're a big star Lefty!


Lefty smiles, his eyes meeting Kiva's across the room. Amidst the bittersweet melodies and tearful goodbyes, they find strength in each other. Liam pulls Lefty aside to give him a warning. He puts his arm around Lefty and leans in.


LIAM There gonna beat the stuffing outta ya when they see the two of you together in Ireland. You know that…(He makes a fist and puts it in Lefty’s face) I’m telling you ya!


LEFTY What do you mean?


LIAM It’s not like here kid, they aren’t gonna take too fondly to you two shacking up. They’re gonna give you a hard time. They probably won’t even let you play music there either. No way their gonna let you on stage. Remember, its a different place. 


Lefty looks stunned. He’d never considered the fact they he would be an outsider, sure it’d be different there but he didn’t think he wouldn’t be able to be play music or be with Kiva.

 

INT. SMALL APARTMENT - NIGHTTIME
Kiva sits quietly beside Lefty, her hands nervously twisting in her lap as she gathers the courage to speak. The weight of her decision hangs heavily in the air between them.


KIVA Lefty, I know you've been dreaming of going to the west coast to pursue your music. And I want you to go. I don’t want you to regret me or your choices.


Lefty's brow furrows in concern, his gaze searching hers. He senses the gravity of her words and waits silently for her to continue.


KIVA I can't leave my mom right now. She needs me. My family needs me. And... and I know how things are in Ireland. You heard Liam, you'll be an outsider there, and I don't want that for you. Our relationship won’t be considered acceptable. They might hurt you. It isn’t very accepting if you know what I mean. 


Lefty reaches out, gently taking her hands in his.
LEFTY Kiva, I want to be with you. I want to support you and your family through this.


Kiva squeezes his hands tightly, her voice trembling.
KIVA You already are, Lefty. You've been my rock the last few days. But I also know how much your music means to you. You need to go to Los Angeles. Chase your dreams. 


A tear rolls down Lefty's cheeks as he realizes the depth of Kiva's words. He nods slowly, his heart heavy yet full of admiration for her strength. He is angry at the situation.


KIVA We'll keep in touch. I promise.


LEFTY Alright, I’ll go. I understand. But I'm not leaving you behind. I’m sure we'll find a way to make this work. Maybe in a few months you can meet me in LA and we’ll things back together.


They hold each other tightly, knowing that this moment marks the beginning of a new chapter in both their lives.

 

INT. SMALL APARTMENT - NIGHTTIME
As Lefty and Kiva sit together, a thought crosses Kiva's mind as she sees a note she left by the phone.


KIVA I forgot to tell you; a man named Dean Sweet called for you the other day. He asked if you’d considered his offer.


Lefty's interest is piqued.
LEFTY Really, You said Dean… What day was this? When did he call?


KIVA Umm… It was the same day my sister called me.


LEFTY I’m not sure about that guy?


KIVA looks curious as LEFTY's expression shifts to one of contemplation.

 

INT. SMALL APARTMENT - LATE NIGHT
In the quiet hours of the night, Lefty sits with his guitar, his thoughts consumed by Kiva and the difficult decision they face. The melody comes to him effortlessly, as if it's been waiting in the depths of his soul to be pulled from obscurity. His fingers glide over the strings, weaving a tapestry of emotions into each note.


As he sings, his voice carries the weight of longing and the strength of their love. The lyrics flow like a river, painting a picture of a purple rose, a symbol of their undying affection and the promise of a future reunion.


LEFTY (singing) A purple rose in her hair, She stood at the edge of my world…


With the final chord resonating softly, LEFTY feels a sense of peace wash over him. This song, "A Purple Rose in Her Hair," becomes not just a melody, but a testament to their love but to their time together celebrating the Irish culture.
Lefty imagines Kiva's smile upon hearing it, knowing that their connection will endure, a constant reminder that their love transcends any distance or hardship they may face. They leave as friends, lovers, and hopeful for something more in the future.

 


Chapter 6: Little Red Hearts

INT. TEXAS AIRPORT - INTERIOR - MORNING - 1978
As the morning sun casts a golden hue over the airport tarmac, Lefty stands beside Kiva, their fingers intertwined in a final embrace. The bustle of travelers fades into the background as they share a moment of quiet farewell. Kiva, with her long, pale blond hair and bohemian-style clothing, looks up at Lefty with tear-filled hazel eyes.


LEFTY (whispering) I'll call you when I can.


Kiva nods, her heart heavy with emotion.
KIVA I knew I shouldn’t have fallen in love with you.


She grabs his cheek and kisses his face one last time, a lingering promise of their love, before Kiva turns towards the boarding gate. Lefty watches her disappear up the steps of the plane, his chest tight with longing, yet filled with pride for her strength. Turning away, he retraces his steps to the airport parking lot where his Cadillac waits, its sleek lines gleaming in the morning light.
As he settles into the driver's seat, he takes a deep breath, steeling himself for the journey ahead.


LEFTY Just you and me again. (He pats the dashboard affectionately) You’ll never leave me… will you baby.

 

EXT. TEXAS AIRPORT - PARKING LOT - DAYTIME
With a flick of the ignition, the engine roars to life, and Lefty pulls out onto the open road. The Cadillac backfires starling Lefty a bit. The highway stretches out before him, a ribbon of asphalt leading westward towards the horizon. His mind drifts to Kiva, their shared dreams, and the promise of a future reunited.


Hours pass in quiet reflection as the landscape shifts from cityscape to rolling hills and open plains. The vast expanse of the American West unfolds around him, its beauty a cure for his restless heart.

 

EXT. GRAND CANYON - OVERLOOK - SUNSET
As the sun begins its descent towards the western horizon, Lefty finds himself approaching the edge of the Grand Canyon. Parking his Cadillac at an overlook, he steps out onto the rocky terrain, awestruck by the canyon's majestic grandeur. The wind whispers through the canyon walls, carrying with it a sense of peace and clarity. Lefty stands at the canyon's edge, his gaze fixed on the distant horizon where the sun dips below the rim, casting hues of orange and red across the sky. In this moment of solitude, surrounded by nature's timeless beauty, Lefty finds solace thinking about Kiva. He knows that their paths diverge for now, but their love remains steadfast, like the eternal depths of the canyon before him.


Lefty sees a nearby payphone. He decides he should reach out to his old friend Sergio and let him know he is on his way to Los Angeles. 


SERGIO Hola


LEFTY Hey buddy, it’s Lefty. 


SERGIO Mi amigo… Where are you? 


LEFTY Right now, I am looking at the Grand Canyon. Its…


SERGIO …you coming to LA? 


LEFTY Yeah, yeah… That’s the plan. 


SERGIO What day do you think you’ll be here.


LEFTY If all goes well, day after tomorrow. 


SERGIO Nice… You still shacking up with the leprechaun? 


LEFTY Haha… Kiva went back home.


SERGIO Well, get you’re ass in that car and drive. I’ve got things to show you.


LEFTY OK… I’ll call you when I get there. See ya.


With a silent vow to keep Kiva close in his heart, Lefty watches the sun's final descent, its fading light a beacon of hope for their reunion. As darkness settles over the canyon, he turns back towards his Cadillac, ready to continue his journey westward, guided by the promise of their enduring love and the melodies yet to be written.

 

EXT. NEVADA DESERT, EMPTY HIGHWAY - MID-DAY - 1978
Lefty's Cadillac sputters and groans as it rolls to a reluctant crawl on the desert highway. He pulls the car over to the side of the road, like a bullfighter wrestling an enormous steer. Steam billows from the hood, mingling with the dry heat of the afternoon sun. The car ceases to move.

LEFTY Are you kidding me! Not now! Come on!

Lefty gets out of the car and feels the sweltering heat on his neck and arms, sweat dripping down his back. Frustration tugs at him as he pops the hood and peers into the engine, hoping it is a minor issue. He’s careful not to burn his hands as he lifts the hood. He stares helplessly at the engine.

LEFTY What’s wrong baby?

After several minutes of fussing with the hoses and nozzles, he realizes he is out of his depths. He decides to hold onto whatever water he has left for drinking instead of adding it to the steaming radiator compartment. He lowers the hood with enough space left open for steam to escape, he hangs his head and contorts his face in frustration, letting out a groan.

LEFTY Don’t do this to me!

Glancing over to the backseat, his eyes fall upon his guitar nestled against the leather upholstery. With a resigned sigh, he retrieves the instrument, its familiar weight comforting in his hands. Sitting on the dusty ground, in the shadows beside the car, he opens his worn notebook, its cover adorned with little red hearts and the phrase "Colorful Stories" scrawled in bold red ink adorned with scroll work flanking the lettering.

LEFTY (to himself) Hmmm… I wonder who wrote that?

As he flips through the pages, memories and lyrics intertwine in his mind. His gaze then drops to his white Converse shoes, where a whimsical trail of little red hearts scrolled across the canvas. He can't help but smile at the unexpected reminder of Kiva’s creativity and the time they shared together.

Strumming a few chords, Lefty closes his eyes, letting the desert breeze play with his mind and the rhythm of his heart guide his words. The melody flows from his lips while playing a rough rhythm on his acoustic guitar, weaving a tale of whimsy, make-believe, and little red hearts.
The song "Little Red Hearts" flows out of Lefty…

Lefty pulls from words and phrases that Kiva has said to him while joking around over the last few years. This engagement leads to writing a fun, rambunctious rock song while sitting dejected over the breakdown of his car, and his love life. After playing his guitar, he feels a little better.

Gently placing his guitar beside him, he returns to the task of examining his car, his heart lighter with the knowledge that wherever his paths lead him, those little red hearts will continue to guide his way forward. He fruitlessly look down the road behind him hoping someone will drive by and pick him up. Hours go by and only a few cars drive by. Finally a car stops.

DRIVER Need a lift pal?

LEFTY I don’t wanna leave my car out here by itself. 


DRIVER Alright, I’ll call ya a tow truck when I get into town.

Lefty waits and waits, but no tow truck shows up to save him. As nighttime descends, he decides to hunker down and sleep in the backseat of the Cadillac. There’s a chill from the desert air so he puts his leather jacket on over his torso and tries to get comfortable but it's a tight fit.

 


LEFTY'S CAR, BACKSEAT - DAWN
Lefty’s nightmare unfolds like a twisted symphony of horrors. On the dimly lit stage of a hellish nightclub, he stands center stage with a red sparkling guitar, strumming chords that once brought him joy. Suddenly, the guitar erupts into flames, the fire licking at his fingers as if hungry for his touch. The once lively band members around him morph into grotesque undead beings, their eyes hollow and mouths twisted into malicious grins. The audience, once a sea of cheering faces, transforms into a writhing mass of eerie figures with pallid skin and vacant stares.


As Lefty tries to comprehend the surreal nightmare unfolding before him, a sinister presence lurks in the shadows. He sees Dean Sweet, the devilish man from the nightclub, materialize. He is beckoning him with a malevolent smirk, his eyes glowing with malice. He gestures ominously towards Lefty, as if orchestrating the nightmarish transformation unfolding. A gaping hole suddenly rips open in the stage floor, revealing a swirling vortex of fire and brimstone beneath. Lefty's heart races as he feels himself being pulled towards the fiery abyss. The heat is intense, scorching his skin and searing his vocal cords with overwhelming dread. Lefty tries to let out a scream, but nothing comes out.


In a desperate attempt to escape the engulfing flames, Lefty fights against the invisible force dragging him down. But his efforts are futile, and he plunges into the infernal pit, the sensation of falling forever etched in his mind.
Suddenly, he jolts awake in the backseat of his car, the remnants of the nightmare clinging to him. The blaring horn of a passing truck cuts through the remnants of his dream, snapping him back to reality with a painful jolt. Sweat-soaked and disoriented, Lefty struggles to shake off the lingering fear and regain his bearings in the reassuring light of day.

 

 


Chapter 7: Victoria in Black

EXT. NEVADA DESERT, EMPTY HIGHWAY - MID-DAY - 1978
Lefty sits by his broken-down Cadillac. The desert sun beating down relentlessly, casting shimmering waves of heat upon the highway, he watches patiently, He keeps hoping for the arrival of someone who will rescue him from this unexpected predicament. Several cars speed by without stopping. Lefty waves his arms for help or attention but no one stops.


Finally, a large white tow truck arrives with a grizzled driver who greets Lefty with a nod and a practiced efficiency. As they hook up the Cadillac and prepare to depart, Lefty is eager to learn more about Las Vegas, He strikes up a conversation with the driver. hoping he'll give him some advice or inspiration wisdom.


LEFTY (looking around as he gets comfortable in the passenger seat) You know… I was trying to make it to the coast when I broke down…. You got anything to drink?


DRIVER (nods in understanding) I got beer in the cooler. (Moving some wrappers out of the way, pointing down to the passengers side floor)

Help yourself.


LEFTY I haven’t eaten or drank anything since yesterday at the Grand Canyon.


Lefty grabs a Coors beer and cracks it open. 
DRIVER Absolutely breathtaking isn’t it?  Makes you feel small but in a good way, doesn’t it. Where ya headed?


LEFTY (looking around the dirty passenger seat) You know, I was headed to LA when I broke down but. Well… Trying to break into the music scene.


DRIVER (chuckles softly, adjusting his strap) Ah, LA. The City of Angels. Interesting. What kind of music do you play?


LEFTY Everything, anything really. Been strumming a guitar since I can remember. Figured LA's the place to be if I wanna make something happen.


DRIVER (warming up to the conversation, sensing Lefty's determination) It's a tough town, I hear it has lots of weirdos, flakes and kooks out there. Hollyweird.  You know that's what they call it…  Holly…Weird!

Really it's the whole damn state… It's gone ape shit. 


Lefty tries to shake off the driver’s off handed comment.


LEFTY So, what's the dirt on Las Vegas? Is it cool, or disgusting? Anything you can tell me?


DRIVER (leaning back in his seat) You've got the bright lights and the showgirls, of course, but you've also got to watch your back. It’s called Sin City for a reason. The city's got a way of taking more than it gives if you're not careful. (pauses, recalling a memory) Heck, one time I even bumped into Frank Sinatra coming out of an Italian Restaurant. It was the single coolest moment of my life. Frankie.

The driver sings a line from “New York, New York”.


Lefty listens intently as they wind through the desert landscape, nearing the neon oasis that is Las Vegas. The driver spins tales of big wins and crushing losses, of fortunes made and lost in the blink of an eye. Lefty absorbs the driver's words, a mix of admiration and caution.


DRIVER (smiling knowingly as they approach the outskirts of Las Vegas) It's a place where dreams come true and fortunes are lost in a roll of the dice. Just remember, kid, hold onto your money tight and maybe Lady Luck will smile upon you.


LEFTY (nods thoughtfully) Thanks for the advice. I’ll keep that in mind.

 

INT. LAS VEGAS, GARAGE - INTERIOR - DAY
Lefty watches as his beloved Cadillac is unloaded off the tow truck. He appreciates the driver's offer to tow it to his friend’s garage and nods gratefully.


LEFTY (voice tinged with concern) Thanks, I really hope it's not too serious. That car means a lot to me.


The tow truck driver, a man of few words but genuine in his manner, reassures Lefty with a confident grin. Lefty pays the tow truck driver with a hundred dollar bill.
DRIVER Don't you worry none. My buddy's a whiz with cars. If it can be fixed, he'll have it running smooth as silk for ya.


LEFTY relaxes slightly, comforted by the driver's assurance. They arrive at a modest garage tucked away in a corner of the city. The tow truck driver introduces Lefty to his friend Tommy, a seasoned mechanic who sizes up the Cadillac with a practiced eye.


Lefty watches anxiously as the mechanic conducts a quick assessment.


LEFTY (trying to gauge the severity of the situation) So, what do you think it could be?


TOMMY (scratching his head thoughtfully) Hard to say just yet. Could be a number of things. You said it backfired on ya! Let me take some things apart, maybe replace a few parts. I'll keep you posted.


LEFTY (resigned to the fact that his car won't be fixed right away) Alright, I guess I'll need to find a place to stay in town then.


TOMMY (nods in agreement) Good idea. There are plenty of motels and boarding houses around here, but stay away from the hookers.

Give me a few days with your car, and I'll let you know if I can figure out what's wrong.


Lefty thanks the mechanic and arranges for his Cadillac to be left at the garage. As he steps out into the bustling streets of Las Vegas, he considers his options for accommodation. The city pulses with life and possibilities, its neon lights and promise of adventure contrasting with the uncertainty of his current situation.

 

EXT. LAS VEGAS STRIP - EVENING - 1978
Over the next few days, Lefty immerses himself in the rhythms of Las Vegas. He finds a temporary place to stay at a motel, explores the vibrant nightlife, and even takes up a few gigs playing music at a local club. Despite the delay with his car, he starts to feel a sense of belonging in this city where dreams are made and lost.


Lefty returns to the mechanic's garage several days later with a mixture of hope and apprehension. He finds the mechanic elbow-deep in the engine compartment of a red Camaro, focused and determined.


TOMMY (downtrodden look on his face) I don’t think I can fix her. The engine is blown. It’s not looking good. It’ll take me a long time to get the parts I need.


LEFTY (disheartened but trying to stay composed) So, what are my options now?


TOMMY (sympathetic) Well, you could stick around here in Vegas for a while. There's jobs to be found if you're willing to work at a casino or wait tables. Or you could head over to Los Angeles. I know you mentioned heading there eventually. It’s not too far and it might offer some new opportunities. I’ll hold onto the car for a while, but if it gets in the way or I get an offer for it, you should think about selling it. 


LEFTY (pats the Cadillac on the hood) Goodbye old friend.


Lefty decides to stay in Las Vegas for the time being, feeling a sense of unfinished business in the city. He begins to forge a new path for himself, finding a more permanent place to live. Lefty joins a cover band that plays in a Casino at the Flamingo. He supplements his income by picking up evening hours as a bartender to make ends meet.

 

EXT. LAS VEGAS STRIP - EVENING - 1978
One evening, while wandering through downtown Las Vegas, the dusky twilight casts long shadows upon the sidewalks where Lefty stumbles upon a Gentlemen’s club. The music is enticing and the air is thick with the scent of cigarette smoke and perfume, and the ambiance is charged with an aura of mystery and desire. There is a flashing sign out front of a half-dressed woman on a horse. It reminds him of a risqué tattoo he saw on a patron at the nightclub where his dad and he played. This peaks his curiosity.


Feeling alone he stumbles inside, amidst the swirl of dancers and the hypnotic rhythm of music, Lefty's gaze is captivated by an exotic dancer named Victoria. As the music pulses, she undresses to the queues of the music. It is a choreographed performance designed to entice lonely travelers into her den of seduction. She moves with a provocative grace, her gestures hinting at a world of secrets and allure. Their eyes meet, and there is an instant recognition of mutual interest, a spark ignites in this dimly lit space.


VICTORIA (seductively) Enjoying the show, handsome?


LEFTY Yeah, I…


The song concludes.


VICTORIA Why don’t you buy me a drink and we can chat?


LEFTY Sure.


Victoria finishes her performance, she descends from the stage with a subtle grace, moving through the club like a lioness. Lefty watches her walk from behind, his pulse quickening being so close to someone so attractive.


VICTORIA Pauly, can I get my usual?


The bartender slides a Mai Tai over to Victoria.


LEFTY (charmed, smiling) You’ve got quite the presence up there.


VICTORIA (moving closer to Lefty and holding out her hand) Thanks. My name is Vixen Monroe, but since you're cute and I can tell you’re not like the other guys in here, you can call me Victoria. That’s my real name by the way. What brings you to Vegas?


LEFTY (softly, almost to himself) A broken-down car, now… I’m kinda stuck here.


VICTORIA Stuck?


LEFTY Yeah, I’m trying to make my way to LA… to make it in the music business.


VICTORIA (teasingly) A musician, huh? Really? Maybe you can sing me a song sometime.


As the night unfolds, filled with music, dancing, and the promise of something unexpected, Lefty finds himself drawn to Victoria's confidence and allure. They share a few drinks, and the initial attraction deepens into a genuine connection.


LEFTY (curious) I’m Lefty by the way… So, what’s your story, Vixen…I mean Victoria? How did you end up here?


VICTORIA (sighing, a hint of vulnerability in her voice) I came to Vegas looking for excitement and new beginning. I was running away from my old life in Denver. Really, the nightlife drew me in, but somehow, I ended up here. I was a bit wild when I was younger.


LEFTY (nodding, understanding) I get that. Sometimes, the dreams we chase lead us to unexpected places. That’s how I got here.
As the evening progresses, Lefty and Victoria find themselves opening up to each other, sharing stories of their pasts and their dreams for the future. Lefty is captivated by Victoria's complexity—her sensuality, her confidence, and the glimpses of vulnerability she allows him to see.

 


INT. LAS VEGAS - SMALL APARTMENT - NIGHTTIME – 1979
As Lefty navigates the ups and downs of life in Las Vegas, his relationship with Victoria begins with intense physical attraction and evolves into something more complex. Lefty is drawn to her body, her glamorous face, and her alluring presence, while Victoria is initially intrigued by Lefty's genuine, loving approach, which contrasts sharply with her usual experiences.


LEFTY (affectionately) You know, I’ve never met anyone quite like you, Victoria. You’ve got this incredible energy… it’s a kind of… sensual energy.


VICTORIA (smiling, running a hand through his hair) And you, Lefty, you… you make me feel... different. Like I’m more than just a pretty face.


Six months go by…
Over time, Lefty’s relationship with Victoria develops from an initial burst of intense physical attraction into something more complex and ultimately toxic. Despite their initial connection, their love languages clash. Victoria is used to being treated like a piece of property, while Lefty wants a deeper emotional connection. Over time, Lefty realizes that Victoria is looking for someone to rescue her from her current life, while he is seeking a partner who shares his dreams and values.


VICTORIA (frustrated) Why can’t you just accept me for who I am, Lefty? This is my life, my job. I'm comfortable doing this, I like doing this. It fits me.


LEFTY (sadly) I want to, but I also want more for you, you know… for us. I can’t keep pretending that this is enough. I’m just not sure this works. (Under his breathe) I’m not sure this ever worked.

 

INT. HOTEL CASINO STAGE - NIGHTTIME

Their relationship becomes increasingly strained as Lefty learns from his bandmates that Victoria is not looking for love but for a way out of Vegas. He is initially in denial, but eventually after many conversations, he faces the truth.


BANDMATE You know she’s sleeping around behind your back.


LEFTY She’s not like that you know. We live together. You think she’s lying to me?


BANDMATE Hey pal, I know she’s lying. She’s playing you like a fiddle. She’s wrong for you. We all think so.


BANDMATE #2 You’re too nice for a girl like that.


One night, he follows Victoria and sees her getting into a customer’s car. The two have sex in the front seat of an expensive black Mercedes.

 

INT. APARTMENT - NIGHTTIME

Lefty confronts her about the cheating and lying. Victoria says it's all part of the job. She gets upset and explains to Lefty her motivations.


LEFTY (hurt and angry) I thought we had something real. How long has this been going on? Why didn’t you tell me?


VICTORIA (defensive) Going on, going on… this is my life, Lefty. You knew what you were getting into. Don’t blame me for your naive fantasies. I’ve been doing this since before I came to Vegas. I’m not ashamed of making money… Are you?


Lefty sits alone in their small apartment in Las Vegas, the neon lights casting flickering shadows on the walls. He feels a heaviness in his chest, realizing that he has settled for something less than he deserves. He reflects on the past few months and knows he can't stay in this dead-end relationship any longer.


As he stares out the window, the distant lights of the Strip twinkling in the night, Lefty makes a decision. He begins packing his belongings, preparing himself for the road ahead. He is disheartened that he hasn’t had the music break he had hoped for by now.

 


INT. LAS VEGAS - SMALL APARTMENT - DAYTIME – 1979

Lefty takes a call from Dean, even though he doesn't want to talk to him. 


LEFTY Hello, This is Lefty speaking.


DEAN Hey Lefty, This is Dean, Dean Sweet. We meet a few years back. 


LEFTY Oh Yeah! I remember you. What can I do for you? 


DEAN No kid, It’s what I can do for you. I’ve got a gig for you.


LEFTY In Vegas? Live gig or recording session?


DEAN Listen kid, tomorrow, we’re recording a new artist I’ve signed. She’s fantastic, her band…well… fair, we’re looking for a new guitar player. The other one, well, he didn’t fit into my plans. You up for a song or two? 


LEFTY Sure. 


DEAN 2202 State St., grey building with a rock siding and a glass door. 2PM. Don’t be late.

 

EXT. RECORDING STUDIO ON STATE ST., AFTERNOON, INTERIOR - 2PM
The recording studio is a small space with connecting rooms. Most are covered in brown and gold colored décor. The main room has some lava lamps in the corner and disco balls hanging from the ceiling. 


Lefty talks to Dean’s new artist, Jeanie, for a few minutes, getting a feel for her style and the songs they’re working on. Jeanie is friendly and enthusiastic, clearly passionate about her music. Lefty listens to her song all the way through with headphones on, nodding along and mentally mapping out his parts. Jeanie’s song is similar to some of Linda Ronstadt’s best work.


RECORDING ENGINEER You think you got it?


LEFTY (confidently) Let’s give it a try.


He heads into the recording booth, puts the headphones on, and plugs his best electric guitar into a mic’d up Vox AC10 Amp. Adjusting himself comfortably in his seat, he leans into the microphone.


LEFTY Let’s try one.


As the track starts, Lefty launches into a crunchy rhythm part, playing all the way through the song with precision and flair. The chords are tight and driving, providing a solid backbone for Jeanie’s vocals. Jeanie watches from the control room, a smile spreading across her face as she listens.


When the song ends, Lefty looks up.
LEFTY Will that work?


Jeanie’s face lights up with enthusiasm.
JEANIE Whoa, that was great!


LEFTY I left the solo empty because I wasn’t sure what you’d want there. Do you want me to play a bluesy guitar solo there?


The recording engineer rewinds the tape.


RECORDING ENGINEER Ready?


Jeanie gives Lefty the “OK” sign through the glass, signaling him to go for it.


Lefty takes a deep breath and positions his fingers over the fretboard. When the track resumes, he dives into a blistering yet soulful guitar solo. His fingers dance across the strings with precision, each note resonating with emotion and power. The solo builds and crescendos, leaving the entire recording booth stunned by his talent.


He accompanies the song all the way to the end, his rhythm and lead parts seamlessly blending with Jeanie’s vocals and the rest of the instrumentation. As the final notes fade out, Lefty gently sets the guitar down, feeling like he’s just laid down a smoking-hot rifle.


The room erupts in applause. The recording engineer looks impressed, and Jeanie is beaming with excitement.
JEANIE That was incredible!


Lefty grins, feeling a surge of pride and accomplishment.
LEFTY Glad you liked it.


Jeanie walks over and gives him a kiss on the cheek.
JEANIE You didn’t just play; you brought the song to life. Thank you.

 

INT. LAS VEGAS - SMALL APARTMENT - NIGHT - 1979
The Apartment is almost empty. Everything is gone but a kitchen table and chairs and a phone on the bar.
The phone rings…


LEFTY stares at his phone in disbelief as Dean Sweet's voice echoes in his ear.


DEAN SWEET (on the phone) Lefty, my man, I've been hearing good things about your recording with Jeanie. How would you feel about a trip out to LA?


LEFTY (nervously) You couldn’t be asking me at a more perfect time.


DEAN SWEET (smugly) I want to bring you out to Hollywood, put you in the studio with our best artist. I got an artist I need to sell. This band’s not getting it done, and I need you to kick them in the ass. But let's be clear—It’s my way or the highway. You play by my rules, play your guitar, play the parts we need and I'll make sure your name's on everyone's lips.


Lefty always knew there were predators in the music business. He had read stories, but he had never seen it up close. He is unprepared for the intestinal fortitude to fend off someone like Dean. Even though he knows Dean works in the shadows, he considers it a necessary evil to do business this way. He is conflicted over getting what he wants and selling his soul for personal gain.


LEFTY (hesitates, knowing Dean's manipulative nature) What do you need from me, Dean?


DEAN SWEET (smiling with satisfaction) I want loyalty, absolute dedication—that's what I'm looking for. And sometimes, you might have to make some compromises, can you do that? Can you make compromises?


LEFTY swallows hard, weighing his options. He knows this could be his big break, but he also senses the danger in Dean's words.


LEFTY (resolute) I'm tired of Vegas, Dean. I need to get outta here. I'll do what it takes. But I’ve got some loose ends to tie up here first.


DEAN SWEET (satisfied) Good. Pack your bags, kid. We start this weekend. And remember, my way or no way.


As Lefty hangs up, a mix of excitement and apprehension washes over him. He feels he’s made a deal with the devil with Dean Sweet, but if it means leaving his past behind and chasing his dreams in Hollywood, he's willing to take the risk.

 

 


Chapter 8: White Lies

INT. LAS VEGAS, SMALL APARTMENT - NIGHTTIME
Lefty sits at the small kitchen table, his fingers tapping anxiously on the worn wood. The apartment is dimly lit, casting long shadows on the walls. Victoria enters, her demeanor cool and composed, but there's an underlying tension in the air.


LEFTY (voice tinged with concern) Victoria, we need to talk.


Victoria looks around and notices the condition of the mostly empty apartment. Victoria reluctantly sits at the same kitchen table. Lefty pours her a drink. Victoria arches her eyebrow, taking a sip of bourbon before responding nonchalantly.


VICTORIA (sipping her drink) What's on your mind, Lefty? What’s the problem? I see you made some changes around here.


Lefty hesitates for a moment, looking around while gathering his thoughts.
LEFTY You know… I’ve been noticing some strange calls, and you’ve been out all night several times in the last few weeks. Can you explain to me what’s going on?


Victoria's expression remains composed, but there's a flicker of uncertainty in her eyes.
VICTORIA (dismissively) Oh, it’s nothing? I’ve just been going out with friends.


Lefty shakes his head, his voice gaining urgency.
LEFTY It's more than just friends, Victoria. You’ve been distant, avoiding eye contact, you haven’t kissed me in weeks. I know you say you were working. But I know what’s going on… You don’t think I've heard rumors… Hmmm! 

Even the guys in the band are telling me…


Victoria sets her glass down with a sigh, her facade slipping slightly.
VICTORIA (softly) Lefty, you know how it is in this town. Sometimes you have to entertain to get ahead. I'm sorry, but I can’t have the things I feel I deserve on a musician’s tips. I have to entertain when the high rollers come to town.


Lefty's frustration bubbles to the surface.
LEFTY Entertain? Is that what you call it? I've seen the gifts, the rolls of cash. Victoria… You've been seeing other people behind my back. I’m not stupid. You say it's business but I know… I know better.


Victoria shifts uncomfortably, her gaze avoiding his.
VICTORIA Lefty, it's not like that. You know I care about you.


Lefty pushes back his chair (fists clenched), standing up with a mix of anger and sadness.
LEFTY Hmmm. Caring about me doesn't justify lying and cheating, Victoria. And what about the money, I really thought you were different, that you didn’t care about money and stuff. You…


Victoria looks down, her voice barely a whisper.
VICTORIA I just wanted... I thought...


Lefty cuts her off, his tone firm.
LEFTY Enough, Victoria. I'm done. I can't do this anymore. I’m surprised this has lasted as long as it has.


She meets his eyes with her eyes, tears welling up.
VICTORIA Lefty, please...


He shakes his head, his resolve strengthening.
LEFTY Nope…no…. I’m done Victoria. Done. I’m leaving. I'm going to Los Angeles. This isn't the life I wanted anyways.


With that, Lefty gathers his things, leaving Victoria standing in the kitchen. As he walks out the door, he feels a mix of sadness and relief, knowing that he's finally chosen to resume his pursuit of his passion for music. Victoria sits back down at the table and pours another drink.


The song "White Lies" plays as Lefty leaves.

 

FLASHBACK Scene
INT. BAR IN FLORIDA - NIGHTTIME
Lefty walks into the bar where his father and he played music, the familiar scent of smoke and flat beer filling the air. He had always admired his father’s talent and dedication to music, even as his habits changed over the years. Tonight, however, was different.


As he makes his way to the back of the bar, he freezes. His father, inebriated and disheveled, is passionately kissing a young Latina woman in her twenties in a booth near the stage. The sight shatters the image Lefty had of his father, who he once believed was dedicated and faithful despite his late-night escapades.


LEFTY (angry and hurt) Dad! What the hell are you doing?


His father pulls away from the woman, his eyes glazed and unfocused.
LEFTY’S FATHER (slurring) Lefty, it's not what it looks like.


LEFTY No… It’s exactly what it looks like. What about Mom? What about being faithful to your wife?


His father stumbles, trying to find the right words.
LEFTY’S FATHER Son, it's complicated. Your mother and I... we have our problems.


LEFTY (trembling with emotion) That's no excuse. I can't believe you’d do this to her. You're no better than the drunkies that come in here and fuck around.


Lefty storms out of the bar, his heart heavy with betrayal. He crashes at Tajo's family house, not returning home for weeks. During this time, he only plays music about deception, cheating, and adultery, a passive-aggressive way to deal with his father's actions.
When Lefty finally returns home, he can't stand to be in the same room as his father. The bond they once shared is irreparably damaged, and Lefty’s faith in family and relationships is shattered. This memory haunts him, especially now with Victoria’s betrayal. It serves as a painful reminder of the kind of life he doesn’t want to lead.

 

Present Day
EXT. LAS VEGAS, GARAGE - DAYTIME
Lefty stands in front of the garage, looking at his beloved Cadillac one last time. The desert sun casts grey shadows across the asphalt, and the dry heat makes the moment feel even heavier. Tommy, the mechanic, a burly man with grease-stained overalls, approaches him.


MECHANIC So, you made up your mind, huh?


Lefty nods, his eyes lingering on the car.
LEFTY Yeah, it’s time to let her go. How much are you offering again?


MECHANIC I can give you $200 for it. She’s got potential, but there’s a lot of work to be done.


Lefty sighs, knowing it’s not much but understanding the reality of the situation.
LEFTY Alright, I’ll let her go for $200. Just take good care of her, okay? This car has been with me through a lot.


MECHANIC Don’t worry, kid. I’ll make sure she gets the attention she needs.


The mechanic reaches into his pocket and pulls out a wad of cash, counting out the bills before handing them to Lefty.
MECHANIC Here you go. Good luck with everything.


Lefty takes the money, feeling a mix of sadness and relief. He glances back at the Cadillac, He rubs the two patched holes in the back of the car where the two bullets hit. A flood of memories of the journeys they shared bubble his mind. He pats the car’s hood one last time.


LEFTY Goodbye, old friend.


He picks up his duffel bag, slings his guitar over his shoulder, and puts on his sunglasses. With one last look, he turns and walks away from the garage. The mechanic watches him for a moment before going back to work.


MECHANIC Take care, kid. Hope you find what you’re looking for out there.


As Lefty walks down the dusty road, he feels the weight of his decision but also a sense of freedom. He’s leaving behind the past, ready to face whatever lies ahead. The bus station beckons him to complete his quest and head to Los Angeles.

 

EXT. BUS STATION - DAY
At the bus station, the ticket Dean promised awaits Lefty, a tangible sign of the opportunity calling him to Hollywood. Lefty pulls out his guitar and starts strumming softly, the familiar notes bringing him a sense of comfort. A few people glance his way, intrigued by the music.


STRANGER That’s a nice tune. You a musician?


Lefty looks up, offering a small smile.
LEFTY Yeah, something like that.


STRANGER Where you headed?


LEFTY Los Angeles. Got a shot at making it big.


The stranger nods, impressed.
STRANGER Good luck to you. Hope you make it.


LEFTY Thanks. Me too.


Lefty continues to play his acoustic guitar, the soft melody filling the air. As the bus arrives, he takes a deep breath, ready to embark on the next chapter of his journey. On the way over to the bus, Lefty drops a five dollar bill in the hat of the homeless guy sitting near the exit. With his ticket in hand and his guitar slung over his shoulder, he boards the bus, leaving behind the memories of Las Vegas and the hopes of a new beginning in Los Angeles.


The bus pulls away from the station, the image of Sin City fading into the distance as Lefty looks out the window, a mix of anticipation and determination in his eyes.

 

 


Chapter 9: Yellow Citrine

EXT. GREYHOUND BUS STATION, LAS VEGAS, NV - Morning - 1979
Lefty finds a seat near the back of the bus. He stows his guitar in the overhead area and sits next to a girl who looks very different than any of the other girls he has ever known. She is dressed in torn and ragged clothes; she is wearing blue jeans with flared bottoms, a t-shirt with The Rolling Stones logo, and a red handkerchief over her hair tied in the back. He could tell she had a bohemian air about her. They strike up a conversation. He puts out his hand and they shake. 

LEFTY Lefty Lima

CITRINE Citrine… It's like Christine, but more interesting.

(leaning in with curiosity) Heading to LA, huh? What's your story? You must be a musician, right?


LEFTY (smiling in return) Yeah, you saw the guitar. I've got an opportunity to play guitar for a recording artist with a big label. How about you? You’re not an exotic dancer by chance?


CITRINE (nodding enthusiastically) Nice! Not quite… I’m moving there to be a writer, you know? LA seems like a place where things happen. So I’m going to where… things happen.


As Citrine settles into her seat beside Lefty, the bus hums with the rhythm of the pavement. Lefty, curious about Citrine's background, initiates a deeper conversation.


LEFTY So, Citrine, you mentioned you're a writer. What do you write about?


CITRINE (smiling warmly) I’m like to consider myself more of a storyteller. I write about cultural events, issues affecting minority communities. Those type of things. Yeah,  it’s really personal for me.


LEFTY (nodding with interest) How so? I mean… What got you into something like that?


CITRINE Well, my father is from the middle east but he spent most of his life in France, he saw how his family was treated, how our community stories were often untold or misunderstood. He always felt like an outsider. So did I, I guess.


LEFTY (listening intently) That’s kind of sad. So, you're using your writing to shed light on those stories?


CITRINE (nodding enthusiastically) Exactly! Whether it's art, music, or everyday life, I believe in amplifying those voices and perspectives that are outside the mainstream that deserve to be heard.


LEFTY And you think LA is the place to do that?


Citrine (gazing out the window, a thoughtful expression on her face) I’ve been there before a few times. So, yeah…absolutely. LA is a mixture of cultures, ideas, and creativity. It’s like a world onto itself…in a way.


LEFTY I never thought of it like that. 


CITRINE You have the same thing in you too huh, something is drawing you to LA.


LEFTY Absolutely. Some of the best recording studios in the world are here. Plus, the 80s are right around the corner, and I feel like LA is the place to be you know, culturally. I feel like this is where the next musical revolution is going to happen.


CITRINE (nodding) Oh, for sure. I hope the music scene changes though. Less egos, more fun. You can tell music is changing. There are more women making it big, more than ever before.


LEFTY (thoughtful) Yeah, that’s true. It's like… we need to be more in touch with our emotions, you know? Music should move us, change us, make us feel things. 


LEFTY I’m hoping to be a part of what comes next.


CITRINE (nodding in agreement) Oh Yeah! Yes, yes… exactly! It's about authenticity. Like, rock 'n' roll should be rebellious and real, not just about image and fame or money."


LEFTY Do you think it's really possible? To change things? I have my doubts these days.


CITRINE (now staring at Lefty intently) I hope so. Music has always been a mirror of society. If we want change, it starts with what we create and how we connect through it.


Their conversation continues throughout the journey, weaving through topics of passion, creativity, favorite artists, and the evolving landscape of music. Citrine's fervent belief in the transformative power of art resonates with Lefty, igniting a shared excitement for the future they envision in the vibrant city of Los Angeles.


As the Greyhound bus nears Los Angeles, Lefty and Citrine's conversation continues. They exchange stories about albums of note. They go into depth about their dreams of making it big. Lefty finds a kindred spirit in Citrine.


LEFTY You know, Citrine, I'm really glad we ended up next to each other on this trip. I was in a bad place. 


Lefty looks down at the floor of the bus.
 

CITRINE (grinning back) I could tell. You looked like you needed a friend. Plus, it’s rare to meet someone who shares such a passion for music. 


30 awkward seconds go by… 
CITRINE Hey, how about we check out a show at the Whisky a Go Go? Do you know that place? 


LEFTY Yeah, I’ve heard of it.


CITRINE I have a friend in an band playing there this Friday night. In fact, they just got signed to a record label. Wanna tag along? I’ll show you what the LA music scene is like up close.


LEFTY (excitedly) That sounds good!


CITRINE Don’t worry, they’re good people.


LEFTY Wouldn’t miss it.


CITRINE I’ll find you, 10PM at the bar. This Friday!

 

EXT. BUS STOP/TRAIN STATION - MORNING 9AM

Arriving in Los Angeles, Lefty feels the city pulse with energy and possibility. There’s a towncar at the bus stop waiting for Lefty. Lefty can't help but feel the sense of anticipation as he makes his way to see his friend Sergio. Lefty says his goodbyes to Citrine, and then the door opens to the car. He is surprised to see Dean riding in the backseat of the towncar. Dean welcomes Lefty in with a gregarious charm. Lefty’s apprehension is noticeable as Dean outlines his plans for recording an album that could launch Lefty's career. There are lots of big promises being made and important names being discussed but Lefty wonders when the other shoe will drop through the conversation.

 

DEAN (Door open and he motions toward Lefty) LEFTY, Lefty… Over here.

 

Lefty sees Dean. He takes a deep breathe and situates himself with his bags and guitar. Lefty hands the driver his guitar and bags and gets into the backseat with Dean.

 

DEAN Lefty, how was the bus ride? You doing alright? You need anything?… a drink perhaps?

 

LEFTY Nah, I’m good.

 

DEAN Excellent!... Well, I’ve got a big day planned for you tomorrow, big day! Could change your life.

 

LEFTY (eager) You really want to represent me? You think I’ve got what it takes?


DEAN You've got raw talent, kid. But talent alone won't cut it. You need someone who knows the ropes, someone who can open doors for you. Someone to grease the wheels, if you know what I mean. I’ve represented some major talent over the years. Billy Paxton, Tommy Turlock, The Belvederes. All have gone on to have successful careers.


LEFTY (listening intently) I hear you, Dean. I know, I know… What do you need from me?


DEAN (smoothly) It's simple. I’ve got this contract stuff to get out of the way. It's all standard stuff—nothing to worry about. Just a formality really. It ensures you're committed and we’re both on the same page.


LEFTY (hesitant) Are you sure this is necessary? I don't want any surprises. I gotta think about it for a few days. Maybe I should speak to a lawyer?


DEAN (reassuring) Trust me, it’s all in your best interest. Plus, I am a lawyer. I’m your lawyer. Remember, I’m on your side. 


You know…we can’t move forward without it. Fame and success don’t come without a little paperwork, right?


LEFTY (still unsure) Okay, Dean. I’ll do the recording with your artist this week and if it goes well, I’ll be willing to sign your contract. If you say it’s going to do all the things you say it’s going to do for me. I’ll be your man.


DEAN (satisfied) Excellent. I’ll have the contract ready for you to sign ASAP. I promise you; this will be the start of something very rewarding for both of us.


With a firm handshake, Lefty leaves Dean's towncar with a renewed sense of purpose. His hand left feeling warm, almost energized from the interaction.

 

EXT. 60’s STYLE APARTMENT, HOLLYWOOD - AFTERNOON


Sergio’s apartment is full or wood paneling and used Lucite furniture. It feels modest but cozy. The walls are adorned with old photos of their nightclub days, his family pictures, and some of his favorite musicians. The faint sound of salsa music plays in the background, a reminder of their shared past. Sergio’s new job waiting tables at a fancy restaurant keeps him busy in the evenings these days, but he’s more than happy to offer Lefty a place to crash while he figures out his next move.
Sergio is lean and fit, with a muscular build honed from years of working on his feet. His short wavy black hair, and his dark brown eyes carry a mischievous glint. His medium tan complexion is weathered slightly by years of working outside in the fields as a child. He sports tattoos depicting various musical symbols, tribal patterns, and personal milestones. Sergio is usually seen wearing a rock band t-shirt, leather jacket, and worn-in jeans when not working. Sergio often sports a bandana on his head, even indoors often.


SERGIO (smiling warmly) Good to see you, asere. Been way too long.


LEFTY (relieved) Thanks for letting me crash on your couch. I’ll try to stay out of your way. 


SERGIO (playful) Anytime. Hey…I’m off tonight, let’s go down to the Central and get into trouble. The place is a dive, but it's got the best music in town. 

 

EXT. WHISKY A GO GO, HOLLYWOOD - FRIDAY NIGHT
Lefty walks into the Whisky a Go Go, the dim lighting and familiar scent of old wood and spilled drinks instantly bringing back memories of playing in the club in Florida.. They arrive about 15 minutes early. Deciding to make the most of his time, Lefty heads to the bar and orders a couple of beers, one for him and one for Sergio.


As he waits, he looks around and takes in the atmosphere. The place is alive with the sound of a band on stage, their music filling the room with a pulsating energy. Lefty watches them closely, noting their skill and stage presence. They seem so comfortable, so natural up there, and their confidence is palpable.


Lefty feels a twinge of intimidation. The band is really good, their performance tight and captivating. He can't help but wonder if he has the chops to make it in this town. The thought lingers in his mind, a mix of doubt and determination stirring within him. He takes a sip of his beer, trying to shake off the feeling.


A few minutes later, Lefty feels a tap on his shoulder. He turns around to see Citrine, the girl with whom he had a connection with on the bus. She’s even more striking than the last time he saw her, a cute French girl with long wavy hair, now wearing a long yellow dress that adds a touch of playfulness to her bohemian style. She’s holding a Cuba Libre, a popular rum drink in Hollywood in the 70s.


CITRINE (sincerely) Glad you could make it. What do you think of my friend’s band?


LEFTY (grinning) They’re really good. I’m impressed. 

This is my buddy Sergio. He’s a musician too.


SERGIO (extending hand) Nice to meet you. Any friend of Lefty’s is a friend of mine.


CITRINE (shaking hand) Nice to meet you too, Sergio. It’s always great to meet another musician. What do you play?


SERGIO (chuckles) Mostly drums… and percussion, but I dabble in a bit of everything.


After some time, Citrine invites Lefty and Sergio up to the green room to wait for the band to finish their set. The green room is a cozy, slightly chaotic space filled with black leather couches, a TV,  and a few bags of clothes. The air is permeated with the faint smell of marijuana and sweat. Ironically two of the walls are painted an emerald green color and the others are black with posters. They find a spot to sit and make themselves comfortable.


LEFTY (enthusiastic) I’ve been writing a lot of songs lately. They’re all based on colors. I find it’s a good writing technique, giving each song a distinct mood and feel. I have other songs too you know, but these color ones have really been a focus for me the last few years.


SERGIO (nodding appreciatively) That sounds interesting. I’d love to hear them.


CITRINE (eyes lighting up) That’s such a unique concept, Lefty. I’d love to hear your music. It sounds like you’ve put a lot of thought and creativity into it.


LEFTY (smiling with pride) Thanks, Citrine. I’d love to play some for you, but I need to get back on my feet first, you know, get some work? Once I have some money coming in and a stable place to stay, I’ll definitely play you some of the stuff I’ve been working on.


CITRINE (smiling warmly) I understand, Lefty. No rush. I’m just excited to hear your work…whenever you’re ready.


SERGIO (leaning back) We’ll make sure you get there, man. And when you do, we’ll all be there to support you. 

(Looking at Citrine) You should have seen this kid when we were in Florida. I might be biased but think he puts Clapton to shame. Just sayin’. He's real good.


LEFTY I don’t know. I was ok I guess. 


The band finishes their set and makes their way to the green room, joining Lefty, Sergio, and Citrine. Introductions are made, and soon the room is filled with animated conversation and laughter. The band members are friendly and down-to-earth, making it easy for Lefty and Sergio to feel at ease.


They talk for hours, the conversation flowing effortlessly. Stories of gigs, music, and life in Hollywood are shared, and the camaraderie in the room is noticeable. The band passes around a joint, and soon everyone is getting high, the haze of marijuana smoke adds to the relaxed and intimate atmosphere. Lefty lets down his guard.


As the evening progresses, Lefty feels a deeper connection forming with Citrine. She eventually settles onto his lap, and he wraps his arm around her, feeling a mix of excitement and comfort in her presence. 


After everyone keeps pushing Lefty, Citrine passes Lefty an acoustic guitar.
LEFTY Alright, alright, but I’m not sure it’s ready for the public, you know, but here goes. 


Lefty plays an original song called “THE OLD SONGS” for the group. He gets really into the moment, and you can see the passion and time he has put into the writing and lyrics.


It's quiet for a few seconds afterward, then they all clap. Lefty gives a shrug of acknowledgment like he is embarrassed by the adulation.
LEFTY (Passing the guitar back to Dave) Thanks. 


SERGIO I don’t know if it’s just me or the pot talking, but I think you’ve gotten even better since the last time I saw you play.


CRAIG (BAND MEMBER) (grinning) You know, Lefty, Since I’m the leader of the band, I’m just going to just say it… we’d love to see what other songs you’ve got. How about you come down to our next rehearsal and give us a preview of your stuff, with a full band? You’ve got a band right?

Well… If it’s as good as I think it's gonna be, we’ll give you the opening spot at our next gig.


LEFTY (heart racing with excitement and nerves) Are you serious? That would be amazing. I’d love to!


The rest of the band nods in agreement, and Lefty feels a surge of gratitude and determination. He looks at Citrine, who smiles back at him, her eyes filled with encouragement and admiration.


As the night winds down and they all begin to part ways, Lefty feels a sense of accomplishment and hope. He’s not only made new friends but also taken a significant step toward his dream. With Sergio’s support and Citrine by his side, he’s ready to face whatever challenges come next.


CITRINE (squeezing Lefty’s hand) Somehow I knew you’d make a great impression. You’re going to do amazing things in this town, Lefty. I can just feel it. I can’t wait to see you up on that stage. I got a feeling about you the moment we met.


LEFTY (smiling with renewed sense of purpose) Thanks, Citrine. That means a lot to me. I’m going to give it everything I’ve got.


Under the shimmering lights of the Sunset Strip, Lefty and Citrine step out of the Whisky a Go Go, their hands still intertwined. The energy of the city buzzes around them, but for a moment, it feels like they’re the only two people in the world.
Lefty turns to Citrine, his heart pounding with a mix of excitement and affection. Her eyes meet his, and without a word, he gently pulls her closer. The world seems to slow down as he leans in and kisses her, the warmth of her lips sending a thrilling jolting through him.
The kiss is soft and tender, filled with the promise of new beginnings. The neon lights of the Sunset Strip cast a magical glow around them, making the moment feel almost surreal. Citrine’s hand rests on his chest, and she can feel his heart beating in sync with hers.


LEFTY (whispering with emotion) That was… perfect.


CITRINE (nodding, eyes sparkling) Yeah… It really was. I’ve got a feeling this is just the beginning of something amazing.


They stand there for a few moments longer, wrapped in the enchantment of the night until… 
SERGIO (breaking the spell) Come on, Loverboy, I gotta go to work in the morning. 


Lefty and Citrine laugh, the magic of the moment is broken. They part ways, Lefty stumbles into Sergio's car like a love-sick puppy.
LEFTY Wow! She is something else.

 

INT. GUITAR SHOP, SHOWROOM - 11AM
A few days later, Sergio and Lefty head down to a local guitar shop, a place renowned for its wide selection of instruments. The moment they step inside, Lefty feels like a kid in a candy store. The walls are lined with guitars of all shapes, sizes, and colors, each one calling out with a different promise of musical magic. 


Lefty considers his upcoming demo recording with Dean's label artist and realizes his old acoustic guitar isn't going to cut it. He needs something versatile, a guitar that can handle anything he throws at it, rock, country, or blues. After browsing the aisles and trying out several options, he finally settles on a teal green Fender Telecaster with a tortoiseshell pick guard. The guitar feels perfect in his hands, its weight and balance are just right. With the money he's made from selling the Cadillac, he decides to make the investment and buy the high-end guitar. 
Sergio, meanwhile, picks out a new pair of drumsticks, testing their balance and feel with a few light taps on a practice pad. He watches Lefty with a smile, seeing the excitement in his friend’s eyes as he admires his new guitar.


LEFTY (stopping in front of a pristine high-end Stratocaster) One day.


Sergio puts one arm on his shoulder and the other hand gestures to the guitar.
SERGIO You’ll get there, man. Just keep playing, good fortune is right around the corner, I can feel it.


LEFTY It would be nice to not have to always have to think about the price. 


With their new gear in hand, they head to the counter. The shop owner, an older man with his long hair pulled back into a ponytail, a Grateful Dead shirt on and a friendly smile, rings up their purchases and wishes them luck.
As they leave the shop, Lefty feels a surge of confidence. With the new Telecaster in his hands, he knows he’s ready to record.

 

INT. RECORDING STUDIO ON SUNSET BLVD.  - 2PM
Lefty is dropped off in front of the recording studio by a yellow taxi. He has his new Telecaster slung over his shoulder, ready to play. He makes his way through the lobby only to see several recording engineers and A&R guys in suits talking near the receptionist’s desk. The female receptionist takes his name, checks him in, and opens the door to the studios. Once inside the back area, he notices that the studio is a hive of activity, with cables snaking across the floor and the hum of equipment filling the space he has been escorted to. This is a high-end studio. It’s clean, with a black, grey, and a polished silver motif. He takes a deep breath, feeling the familiar thrill of stepping into a professional recording environment. This time is different than the last. Lefty can feel that the stakes are bigger, that there is more money behind this production, and more people involved. 


Lefty sees that he’s been invited into a session with a well-known British band and they are working on their highly anticipated album, a follow-up to one that sold over three million copies a few years back. The atmosphere is charged with frustration and tension as their deadline looms. The band is introduced to a new producer after their last one was fired only days ago. The band manager is a short, skinny guy, decked out in blue jeans, with a plaid shirt and a jean jacket. The lead singer is a tall, blonde with long curly hair and a white poet shirt on. The guitar player has dark wavy hair, ripped jeans and a black flannel shirt on and a concert shirt underneath.

 

BAND MANAGER (Half-heartedly) Listen everyone, This is Terry Steele. Terry is going to be working with you all for the next few songs. I know we’ve had our issues with this production and everything, but we just need to hammer out these last few songs. Got it! Good!


LEAD SINGER (British accent) Another one… hey, I guess that last other one didn’t like being called “twat” all the time. Too bad…he was a little twat. Twat, twat, twat.


BAND MANAGER Oh and we’ve got a new guitar player too. This is Lefty Lima, the record company sent him over. Supposedly, Dean wants us to work with him or something. Billy, can you get him up to speed on the new song.


GUITAR PLAYER IN BAND (British accent) Who are you, you done anything worth listening to? 


BAND MANAGER Shut it, Billy! He’s here to fix your crap guitar playing. Geez…You want to finish this album don’t cha? 
Wanker!


LEFTY (feeling unwanted) Where should I put my stuff? 


LEAD SINGER You American? Or are you a Mexican…You gonna play us some flamenco Amigo? 


LEFTY Cuban actually. I’m Cuban but I can play flamenco if you want. 
Here…


Lefty picks up a nearby Martin acoustic guitar and starts playing in an aggressive flamenco style. He plays for a little over a minute showing off.
LEFTY Is that what you’re looking for? 


LEAD SINGER (humbled) Hmmm… Billy, show our friend… Lefty here “the song”. Let’s give this guy a go. See what he can do with the mess we’ve made.

 

EXT. RECORDING STUDIO ON SUNSET BLVD.  - 9AM
After a long night at the recording studio, Lefty packs up his guitar and heads toward the door only to see that the night has passed. Morning sunlight is pouring through he front door of the studio. Lefty puts his sunglasses on. He looks disheveled. The band manager and the recording engineer are still listening to the song and adding their finishing touches to this memorable track. The lead singer named Cameron and the drummer come outside to have a smoke as Lefty is leaving. Cameron is wearing a hemp poncho and the drummer has a sweatshirt on because of the cold damp air outside.


DRUMMER …gotta get me one of those 911s. Whew… What a great sports car. That thing really…


LEAD SINGER Heh, hey…Lefty. Hey, bang up job in there. We’re a tricky lot, you know. 


LEFTY Complicated situation. 


LEAD SINGER, Sure. Bit like feeding a pack of hyenas, wasn’t it?
You write? I get the feeling you’re a songwriter too. 


LEFTY Yeah, I do. I’m putting a band together.


LEAD SINGER Tell Dean, you’ve got my vote. You’re alright in my book. 


LEFTY Thanks, I… umm, Dean and I are meeting tonight to talk about a contract? Got any advice? 


LEAD SIGNER Oh sure yeah, be careful with that one. He’s a like like like…Dracula or Nosferatu. You’re his next target I suppose… so remember… You need to do what’s best for you… number one. For example, I signed with him… I saw no problem with it. You… Well…     you’ll figure it out when the time comes.


Lefty hops into a cab and heads out. He is left sitting in the cab pondering what Cameron was trying to say about Dean.

 

EXT. HOLLYWOOD, BLACK TOWNCAR - LATE EVENING
After the reports that have come in from both Jeanie and the Hollywood Recording Studio Dean is so impressed with Lefty's ability that he decides to take him to meet his boss. They travel in a large black town car, the interior dimly lit by the glow of the city lights passing by. Dean smokes a cigar in the back, the thick smoke curling around his face, while Lefty sips from a bottle of Coke, feeling a mix of excitement and unease.


Dean leans back, exhaling a cloud of smoke.
DEAN You did good today, kid. You show promise.


LEFTY (masking nerves) Thanks, Dean. So, your boss?


Dean chuckles, a low, sinister sound.
DEAN He's the head of Seventh Ring Records. Don’t worry… you’ll see.


LEFTY (furrowing brow) Seventh Ring Records? Sounds intense. What does…


Dean's grin widens and he cuts Lefty off with an answer.
DEAN It’s a reference… to one of the levels of Hell in Dante’s Inferno. 

Ever read it? No…

(Dean smirks and make a hand gesture to dismiss his comments) Don't worry about it. Just focus on impressing the boss.


The town car glides to a stop in front of an imposing building. A well-built woman with an air of authority opens the car door and escorts them inside. As they walk through the opulent lobby, Lefty feels a chill run down his spine. Suddenly he feels small and insignificant.

 

INT. SEVENTH RING RECORDS, BOSS’S OFFICE – NIGHTTIME
Dean and Lefty are led into the boss's office, a decadent mix of gold and crimson with accents of bronze. The walls are velvet-lined with a scrolling pattern, and the chairs are red velvet and mahogany. Subtle accents of cherubs and statues of saints are scattered throughout the room, adding an eerie touch. A giant painting of the boss playing a gold violin dominates one wall. The room is designed to produce a feeling of intimidation, and it works. Lefty feels a knot tighten in his stomach as he steps inside. Dean's boss, a tall man with slicked-back white hair and a commanding presence, stands behind a massive mahogany desk. Three contracts are laid out in front of him, and he gestures for Lefty to sit.


BOSS Welcome, Lefty. I've heard great things about you.


LEFTY (steadying voice) Thank you, sir.


The boss nods, his piercing gaze never leaving Lefty's face.
BOSS Dean here speaks highly of you. And I trust Dean's judgment. He’s gathered some impressive talent over the years for our organization. I can go into details but before we proceed, there's the matter of these contracts.


Lefty glances at the contracts, his unease grows. The room's oppressive atmosphere and the boss's intense stare making it hard to think clearly.


Dean leans in, his voice a whisper.
DEAN Sign them, kid. This is your big break.


Lefty takes a deep breath, his hand hovering over the pen. He knows this decision will shape his future, and the weight of it presses down on him. With a final glance at Dean and the boss, he picks up the pen. He glances through the contracts quickly. His eyes narrow in on a passage about selling his soul and eternal damnation in return for fortune and fame. Lefty winces thinking about what that could actually mean. He knows he wants everything mentioned in the contract, but is he willing to sell his eternal soul for a guaranteed life of stardom and notoriety? His moral upbringing and his mother's words ring in his ears.


LEFTY (hand trembling) I can’t, I just can’t, it’s not for me.


Dean's face darkens.
DEAN You think Bob Dylan made it on his talent alone? You think that fat little lump named Reginald Dwight was born to be famous? They made sacrifices. They’ve paid the ultimate price.


LEFTY (shaking head) No, no… I won’t sell my soul.


DEAN You could have anything you want. Just name your price. Number one albums… done. Millions of dollars… you got it! Women…. I know you Lefty, nothing is more important than the love of a good woman. Done!… For Heaven’s sake, we can arrange anything your heart desires. Just name it!


LEFTY I can’t. No, this isn’t for me. You’re gonna have to find someone else.


The boss's smile fades, replaced by a cold, calculating stare.
BOSS Very well. But know this, Lefty. Opportunities like this don't come around too often. Think carefully about what you're giving up. You could be known forever as the best left-handed guitar player that’s ever lived. Are you willing to give that up? 


Lefty turns and walks out of the office, his heart pounding. He knows he's made the right decision, but the weight of what he's just experienced hangs heavy on his shoulders. As he steps back into the night air, he takes a deep breath, his lungs filling with a cool breeze and a sense of relief. Lefty has a moment of clarity… He's ready to pursue his dreams on his own terms, no matter the cost, no matter the struggle.


He walks down the street to the next block and shakes off the heebie-jeebies. 

 

He talks a few more steps and stops.
LEFTY (Looking up at the cloudless sky and the bright moon, he says out loud to himself) God help me, I hope I just did the right thing.

 

 

 

Chapter 10: Bad Rainbows

INT. HOLLYWOOD, SERGIO'S APARTMENT - MORNING
Lefty wakes up the next morning, the events of the previous night swirling in his mind. He sits up, rubbing his eyes and the first thing he sees above Sergio’s front door is a crucifix, and decides to tell Sergio everything. He finds his friend in the small kitchen, making coffee in his boxer shorts.

LEFTY (voice still shaky) Sergio, you won't believe what happened to me last night.


Sergio looks up, raises an eyebrow and sighs.
SERGIO What did you get yourself into now?


LEFTY (takes a deep breath and begins, speaking quickly) Well, after the recording session I met up with Dean, you know Dean, the pale freaky guy I was telling you about, the one who gave me the bus ticket. Well, he picked me up in a limo and we went to meet his boss, the head of the label. On the way he tells me the name of the record label, get this, Seventh Ring Records, can you frecking believe that one? Well that gives me the serious heebie-jeebies because of the Faust thing. 

So, now I’m freaked out. We get there and it’s a super creepy office, like something out of Dracula creepy. Dean's boss is this old guy with white hair and there’s this picture of him playing a gold violin on the wall. And I’m pretty sure they are going to do a ritual sacrifice right then and there. Then, they try to get me to sign a record contract, but I didn’t… It wasn't a record contract at all… Get this! It's contract for my soul… It said it right there in black and white. I honestly felt creeped out whole time I was there. 


Sergio listens intently, but there's a hint of skepticism in his eyes.
SERGIO Really… Did you sign anything?


LEFTY Nope. I’m telling you… They wanted my soul. You know… my…eternal…soul!


SERGIO (chuckling, shaking his head) Man, that sounds like something out of a 60s horror movie. Are you sure you didn't exaggerate some of that?


LEFTY (shaking head) I swear, Sergio. It was all real. I couldn't sign that contract. It just felt... wrong.


SERGIO (nods slowly) Well, whether it was as sinister as you say or not, I’m sure you made the right call. But you still have that audition. You need a band.


LEFTY I need an exorcist!


SERGIO You need musicians. Good ones!


Lefty sighs, running a hand through his messy black hair.
LEFTY That's true. And I really don't know anybody in this town. Got any ideas?


SERGIO (thinking for a moment, then snapping fingers) Actually, I do. There's a place I go to on weekends sometimes —it's a bit of a dive, but it's filled with musicians looking for gigs. You might find some people there.


LEFTY (perking up) Really? What's it called?


SERGIO “Den of Wolves.”


LEFTY (smiling) Why am I not surprised? 


SERGIO It's not far from here, just down La Cienega. You know… Could’ve been worse, could’ve been called “The Inferno”. 

(Sergio smacks Lefty on his back) Ha!


As the day goes on, Lefty can't shake the feeling of unease from the night before, but he pushes it aside. He knows he made the right decision, but Lefty keeps hearing a sinister laugh in the back of his mind.

 

INT. DEN OF WOLVES CLUB, HOLLYWOOD - NIGHTTIME
Lefty and Sergio arrive at the Den of Wolves, a gritty, dark club filled with aspiring musicians and seasoned players alike. The club is separated into two segments, a bar on one side and a stage and hall on the other. Sergio leads Lefty through the bar crowd to a table where a few musicians are gathered.


SERGIO (to the musicians) Hey, everyone. This is my friend Lefty. He’s looking for some bandmates for an audition. Anyone interested?
A tall, lanky guitarist with long, curly hair and a leather jacket speaks up.


DAVID “DAVE” LECUANO (smiling) I’m Dave. What kind of music are you looking to play?


LEFTY (enthusiastic) Rock, blues, anything with soul. I’ve got an audition coming up, and I need a solid band to back me up.


The musicians exchange glances, intrigued. A keyboard player with short blond hair steps forward.
JAMES "JAX" JACKSON (nodding) I’m in. Name’s Jax. I’ve been looking for a new gig.

DAVE What type of music is it? What are you gonna call this new band?

LEFTY It's rock… mostly.

I was think of calling it… Lefty and The Lionhearted

JAX Sound too ProgRock. Yuck! I'm not doing any progressive rock. That's played out.

DAVE Whatabout something that sounds more current, more Hollywood?

SERGIO Well, I hated working at The Rainbow in Hollywood, that sleazy dive sucked.

LEFTY How about Lefty and The Rainbows? 

I could see us being more David Bowie or Journey than Emerson, Lake, and Palmer.

SERGIO (interrupting everyone) Lefty and The BAD Rainbows. Yeah!

JAX I like it! It's got something intangible. Something that says, we're new, we're different.


Lefty and Sergio spend the evening talking to the musicians, getting to know them and jamming together. By the end of the night, they’ve assembled a band—Lefty and the Bad Rainbows.

 


INT. HOLLYWOOD, RECORDING STUDIO - DAYTIME
After a few weeks of rehearsals, Lefty and the newly formed Bad Rainbows are in the recording studio, preparing for their audition. The atmosphere is electric with anticipation and nervous energy. Citrine, with her long, dark, raven-like hair and deep blue eyes, watches from the control room. She wears a flowing bohemian dress, layered jewelry, corduroy jacket, and a radiant smile.


The Bad Rainbows song plays…
CITRINE (cheering) You guys are sounding good! Things are starting to click.


Lefty grins, feeling a surge of confidence. The band plays through their set, each song building in intensity and emotion. The chemistry between the band members is growing, and they feed off each other's energy.

 

INT. HOLLYWOOD, MUSIC CLUB - NIGHTTIME
That evening, Lefty and the Bad Rainbows take the stage for their audition. The club is packed with an eager audience, anticipation hangs in the air like smoke from a cigar. Lefty steps up to the microphone, his heart pounding with excitement.


LEFTY (into the mic) Thank you all for coming out tonight. 

We’re Lefty and the Bad Rainbows.


The band launches into their first song, the crowd immediately responding with enthusiasm. Lefty's fingers fly over the strings of his new Teal Green Telecaster, the sound is powerful and captivating. Citrine watches from the side of the stage, her eyes shining with pride and love.


After their performance, Craig from The BlackHearts approaches Lefty.
CRAIG (impressed) You guys were fantastic. We’d love to have you open for us at our next gig.


Lefty’s face lights up with joy and relief.
LEFTY (excitedly) Thank you so much! Yeah… We’d be honored.

 

MONTAGE: TOURING WITH THE BLACKHEARTS
Three months later, Lefty and the Bad Rainbows are on the road opening for The BlackHearts. City after city, the crowds grow larger and more enthusiastic with each performance, and the band's popularity soars even though they are the supporting band. Their single "Jekyll & Hyde" climbs the charts, getting significant airplay on Top 40 radio stations across the country, bumping Fleetwood Mac off the top of the charts. Their first album has been released while on tour and it is selling out all over the country.

 


INT. TOUR BUS - NIGHTTIME
The band members are gathered in the cozy confines of the tour bus, the interior filled with laughter, music, and occasional tension. The bus rumbles down the highway, the neon lights of passing buildings casting a fleeting glow through the windows. Sergio, always charismatic and outgoing, sits behind a drum pad, tapping out rhythms trying to keep the mood light and fun.


SERGIO (grinning) Alright, who's up for a little impromptu jam session?


Jax, with a laid-back demeanor, picks up ha bass guitar and plucks a few notes.
JAX (smiling) Count me in. Let's see what you've got, Lefty.


Lefty, grabs his teal telecaster and starts chicken pickin’. Dave, the rhythm guitarist with his long, curly hair, joins in, creating a harmonious blend of sounds. Andre Evans, adds layers of melody with his synth, while Lisa Ramsey, the backing vocalist and percussionist, keeps time with a tambourine.


ANDRE (Jokingly) Hey, Lefty, try to keep up, man. Do your fingers move as fast as your mouth? If so, your fingers might just catch fire!


Lefty’s fingers go into overdrive and the speed of his picking increases.


Lisa, with her vibrant personality and striking voice, chimes in.
LISA (teasing) Yeah, Lefty, you're like a Cuban speed demon on that thing. Caliente!


ANDRE Where did you learn that? Never seen you do that before.


Lefty laughs, shaking his head. He comes to an abrupt stop…
LEFTY (smirking) My Papi…. He’s was even better at this than me. But what can I say? 

It’s all that cafecito I drank growing up. (Making the a sound and jittering) Buzz! Buzz! That stuff always keeps me one step ahead of everyone else ya know! 

(He strums again really fast and smacks his guitar to accent the conclusion) Rapido!


The band bursts into laughter, the camaraderie between them is evident. They continue to play, their music filling the bus with an infectious energy.

 

INT. FLORIDA, LEFTY’S HOMETOWN, BAR - NIGHTTIME
During a stop near his hometown, Lefty takes the opportunity to visit his father. They meet at the bar where they used to play together, the atmosphere thick with unspoken words and lingering memories. Lefty shifts uncomfortably on his stool, glancing around at the familiar surroundings.


LEFTY (hesitant) It's been a while.


His father, looking older and more worn than Lefty remembers, nods.
LEFTY’S FATHER Yeah, it has…You’ve done well for yourself, Alejandro. I keep seeing your face on magazines and billboards.


Lefty forces a small smile.
LEFTY Thanks. Yeah… It’s been a crazy ride the last few months.


A heavy silence falls between them, the kind that’s hard to break. Finally, Lefty takes a deep breath.
LEFTY Dad, you know I had to leave right? I just couldn’t stay any longer.


His father sighs, rubbing his forehead.
LEFTY’S FATHER I was a mess, Lefty. Drinking, making poor decisions... you were better off without me dragging you down.


Lefty clenches his fists, trying to keep his emotions in check.
LEFTY Dad. It hurt, you know? You just... vanished. You disappeared into a bottle of Jack every night.


His father looks down at his hands.
LEFTY’S FATHER I know, son. I’m so sorry. More sorry than you can imagine. I asked for forgiveness from God, but I should have asked for forgiveness from you too. But I’ve changed. I’ve gave up drinking. Been sober for two years now.


Lefty's eyes widen in surprise.
LEFTY Sober? Really? Is that true?


His father nods, meeting Lefty’s gaze.
LEFTY’S FATHER Yeah. It wasn’t easy, but I had to do it. You know for me… And for you.


Lefty feels a mix of emotions swirling inside him—relief, hope, but also lingering hurt.
LEFTY I’m glad to hear that, Dad. Really, I am.


They sit in silence for a moment, the noise of the bar around them seeming distant.
LEFTY It’s hard. There’s still a lot of anger. I'm still mad, probably will be for a while… But maybe... maybe we can start over?


His father smiles, a genuine, hopeful smile.
LEFTY’S FATHER I’d like that. I’d like that a lot.


As they talk, the walls between them begin to crumble, bit by bit. It’s a long road ahead, but for the first time in years, both Lefty and his father feel like they’re moving in the right direction.

 

INT. TOUR BUS - NIGHTTIME
The tour bus rumbles down the highway, the interior filled with the hum of conversation and the distant sound of music. Lefty, Sergio, Jax, Andre, Dave, and Lisa are sprawled out in the lounge area, basking in the glow of their newfound fame. Posters, t-shirts, and other merchandise with the Bad Rainbows logo are scattered around, evidence of the explosion of popularity.


LEFTY (leaning back in his seat, grinning) Man, can you believe it? The album has done this well. We're an overnight sensation!


SERGIO (laughing, shaking his head) I know, right? I thought I'd be playing dive bars forever. Now we're playing to sold out arenas.


LISA (smirking, adjusting her hair) It's insane. Everywhere I go, there are guys swarming me. I can’t buy a candy bar without being mobbed.


Jax chuckles and flexes his muscles playfully.
JAX Yeah, I’m definitely not complaining. The ladies love me. Who knew I’d be the heartthrob of the band?


Andre rolls his eyes good-naturedly.
ANDRE You always did have a way with the ladies, Jax. But seriously, this is wild. Did any of you expect this level of fame?


Dave, the rhythm guitarist, takes a sip of his beer and shakes his head.
DAVE Not in a million years. I thought we’d be lucky to get a local following. Now, we're on the cover of Rolling Stone.


Lefty looks around at his bandmates, a mix of pride and disbelief in his eyes.
LEFTY I knew we had something special, but I never imagined it would blow up like this. It's like we’re living a dream. 


LISA And the merch sales! People are buying everything with our name on it—t-shirts, posters, patches. We’re everywhere.


Jax nods, his smile widening.
JAX It’s surreal. I even saw a kid with my face on a t-shirt the other day. Almost didn’t recognize myself. I signed it of course! 


Sergio leans back, looking thoughtful.
SERGIO This is crazy. We’re all going to need head shrinkers after this tour. This is more than my ego can handle.


Lefty nods in agreement.
LEFTY Sergio’s right. We need to keep focused. This thing.. this band… it’s gotta stay true to the music… and the connection with our fans. That’s the…


LISA Absolutely. And speaking of fans, people are already asking for our next album. Guess, we can’t rest on our laurels for too long.


Andre grins, his fingers tapping out a rhythm on the armrest.
ANDRE Already ahead of you. I’ve got some new stuff in the works. I think we can take our sound even further.


DAVE Count me in. I’ve got a few riffs I’ve been messing around with. Let’s keep this love train chugging down the track.


Jax stretches and leans back, looking relaxed but focused.
JAX Yeah… We’ve got something special here. I just wanna make sure I’m able to keep giving all my fans the “J” love they’ve come to expect. You know what I’m sayin’.


Lefty looks around at his bandmates, feeling a renewed sense of purpose while shaking his head.
LEFTY You guys! Heck… We’ve come this far together, there’s no stopping us now.

 

INT. BACKSTAGE AT A CONCERT VENUE - NIGHTTIME
The backstage area is bustling with activity. The Bad Rainbows are getting ready for their performance, the sound of the crowd's anticipation echoing through the walls. Lisa is adjusting her microphone, while Jax is tuning his bass. Lefty, Sergio, Andre, and Dave are huddled together, discussing their setlist.


LEFTY (grinning) You guys ready to blow their minds tonight?


SERGIO (smiling) Always. Let’s give them a show they’ll never forget.


Lisa walks over, her face lighting up with excitement.
LISA I peeked out at the crowd. It’s packed out there. They’re going crazy for us.


JAX (laughing) And probably a few of them are just here to see you, Lisa.


Lisa playfully punches Jax’s arm.
LISA Oh, shut up. They’re here for all of us. We’re a team, remember?


Andre nods, his eyes twinkling with excitement.
ANDRE Let’s bring the house down.


Dave strums his guitar, a confident smile on his face.
DAVE Let’s do this.


Just then, a record executive walks in, a stern look on his face. He motions for Lefty to come over.
RECORD EXECUTIVE Lefty, a word?


Lefty steps aside with the executive, a knot forming in his stomach.


RECORD EXECUTIVE Listen, I’ve been meaning to talk to you. The music scene is changing, fast. Thanks to MTV, artists like Madonna and Boy George are leading the charge. New Wave is in, rock music is evolving. Rock-N-Roll is out!


LEFTY (frowning) What are you saying? Our fans love our music. Look out into that crowd. We’re contemporary, we’re cutting edge. This is happening!


RECORD EXECUTIVE (softening his tone) I know you think that. But you need to understand the market. If you want to stay on top, you need to adapt. I’m not saying change who you are, but evolve with the times. Keep the essence of the Bad Rainbows, but give it a modern twist.


Lefty takes a deep breath, trying to process the information.
LEFTY Alright. We’ll think about it. 


RECORD EXECUTIVE (nodding) Good. That’s what I like to hear. 


Lefty returns to his bandmates, who are looking at him with curiosity.
SERGIO What was that about?


LEFTY (sighing) Big Brother is watching… It’s just a reminder from our friendly neighborhood record exec that the music industry is always changing. He wants us to adapt and “evolve”. I think he means he wants us to make videos and play more synths. Not sure what to think.


LISA (concerned) How about we make the music and he does his job and sells it.  


Jax claps his hands together, a determined look on his face.
JAX Alright, enough talk. Let’s go out there and rock their socks off.


The band members cheer in agreement, their spirits lifted. As they head towards the stage, the noise of the crowd grows louder, and the adrenaline starts to pump through their veins. They’re ready to show the world that the Bad Rainbows are here to stay, no matter how the industry changes.


The stage lights come on, the crowd roars, and Lefty takes his place at the microphone, feeling the electric energy of the audience. The Bad Rainbows launch into their opening song, their music filling the venue and resonating with every fan present.


LEFTY (to the crowd) How are you all doing tonight?


The crowd erupts in cheers, the love for the Bad Rainbows palpable. The band plays with all their heart, every note a testament to their journey and their bond. As the night progresses, they know that this is just the beginning of something extraordinary.

 


EXT. LOS ANGELES, COURTHOUSE - DAYTIME
Lefty returns to LA, his new home, with a renewed sense of hope. Not long after, he and Citrine decide to get married in a small, intimate ceremony at the courthouse. The decision is made partly because Citrine is pregnant, and they both want to start their family with a solid foundation.


On the day of the wedding, the sun shines brightly over the courthouse steps. Lefty stands nervously with Sergio, his best man, and a few of the guys from his band. Lisa acts as Citrine’s bridesmaid. They share light-hearted jokes and reminisce about their journey together, their laughter echoing in the crisp morning air through the courtyard.


Citrine arrives, glowing with happiness and a subtle hint of anticipation. As she walks towards Lefty, their eyes meet, and the world seems to pause for just a moment.

 


INT. COURTHOUSE - DAYTIME
The ceremony is simple yet beautiful, filled with genuine smiles and heartfelt vows. When they exchange rings, Lefty's hands tremble slightly, but his voice is steady as he promises to love and cherish Citrine forever. Citrine's eyes glisten with tears as she reciprocates his vows, her hand resting gently on her growing belly.


CITRINE (teary-eyed) I do.


After the ceremony, they gather outside for a few pictures on the courthouse steps, capturing the joy and love of the moment. Sergio claps Lefty on the back, grinning from ear to ear.


SERGIO (cheerfully) You did it, man. You really did it. And I thought you were going to sleep on my couch until you were 50.


LEFTY (playfully) Ha! No way… Not with your cooking.

 

 

INT. HOLLYWOOD, RECORDING STUDIO - DAYTIME
Lefty and Citrine’s newlywed bliss is tempered by challenges in the studio. Lefty and the Bad Rainbows, struggle to get along and face difficulties writing their new songs together. The creative energy that once flowed freely now feels stifled knowing they need to out do the success of the previous album. 


In a tense meeting with their record company, the executives express their dissatisfaction with the new material.
RECORD EXECUTIVE (bluntly) This doesn’t sound like something MTV will play. These songs aren't going to sell. Rock-N-Roll is over. We need hits, Hits, I tell you… not these art rock frou-frou songs. 

Go! …Go and take a few weeks off. Get your shit together… Come back with something better than this garbage. 

Remember I need hits I can get on MTV.


Disheartened by the pressures of family and success, Lefty feels stuck at an impasse. After the meeting, he and Sergio stand outside the studio, the weight of the situation pressing down on them.


SERGIO (suggesting) We need to clear our heads. Let’s go to the music shop, like we used to when we were poor and unrecognizable. What am I talking about… I’m the drummer, nobody knows what I look like. 

Anyways… remember… we’d just stare up at those shiny new instruments. 


I could go for a burger on the way. You down for a burger?


LEFTY (grateful for the distraction) Yeah, let’s go. Who knows… maybe it’ll help.

 

INT. MUSIC SHOP, LA - DAYTIME
At the music shop, Lefty and Sergio wander through the aisles, reminiscing about the early days when they could barely afford decent instruments. Now, with their newfound success, they can buy the best equipment available. As they browse, something catches Lefty's eye—a new display featuring a sleek, futuristic keyboard he’s never seen before.


He walks over and reads the label: Prophet-5 synthesizer. 

Intrigued, he sits down and begins to play, experimenting with the different sounds. The salesman approaches, a friendly smile on his face.
SALESMAN That's the Prophet-5. It's a revolutionary synthesizer. All the new wave bands are using them. Heck, it’s all about the synth these days. Have you been watching Video One?


Lefty spends an hour absorbed in the instrument, feeling a spark of inspiration reignite. Sergio looks at him skeptically. 
SERGIO You sure about this? 

LEFTY I don’t know. This might be what we need to get us out of our rut.


Sergio nods, sensing Lefty's enthusiasm.
SERGIO Then let's get it…. 


(Trying to flag down the salesman) Garson… Garson, I’d like the synth please, but hold the mayo! Do you take Mastercard?

 

INT. MUSIC STUDIO, HOLLYWOOD - DAYTIME
Lefty purchases the new synthesizer and meets the band in the studio the next day. He unveils the new instrument as the savior of the band.


LEFTY Listen I’ve been hearing it from the record company… You were there… They told us… We need to change things up. If we don't adapt, we’ll be irrelevant in this new MTV Era.


The band members exchange uncertain glances. One of them, James, speaks up.
JAMES This isn’t what I signed on for. I like pure rock music, not this candy-coated bullshit. I’m not ok with this.


I’m not interested in creating promo videos; I want to write rock music.

The rest of the band nod agreeing with James and Jax.


Frustrated with the tension in the room, Lefty picks up one of his prized Les Paul guitars by the neck and smashes it against the wall to get everyone’s attention.


LEFTY WHAT!?…You didn’t like that. That wasn’t rock n roll enough for you… Let me explain this to you like children. We have to make music the record company will support and release. He can just do our own thing. Unless you want to go back to playing the shitty bars. This is what we need to do. We work for them.


ANDRE That’s not what James is saying. And I know you're under a lot of pressure but… He just means… We’re a rock band! You know…


JAX Exactly! We're not sure this is good… idea. 


LEFTY Fine. Go ahead… Leave, I don’t need this bullshit. If you can’t get with the program, go home… I don’t need you. I’ve said what I need to say.


Three of the six members walk out, clearly unhappy with the new direction and Lefty’s attitude. 


With the studio almost completely empty. Lefty dives into writing with the new synthesizer. Lefty is determined to move forward and the songs come together easily now that he's motivated to prove himself. Each song is infused with a new energy, a new wave energy that the record company is looking for. The album starts to come together, and Lefty finds his flow again—but this time, he’s basically on his own.
Lefty Lima emerges as a solo artist, reinventing his sound with the Prophet-5, drum machines and other instruments he has played by himself. The Bad Rainbows are essentially no more, but Lefty's music continues to evolve, proving that sometimes, change is exactly what’s needed to reignite creativity. For Lefty, the Prophet-5 is more than just an instrument; it’s a symbol of his ability to innovate and push through challenges. It reminds him that even in the face of adversity, there’s always a way forward.

 


INT. LEFTY'S HOUSE, LA - DAYTIME
Sergio sits in Lefty’s living room, listening to the new songs on a reel-to-reel player. Citrine is in the background, feeding the baby, her gentle humming blending with the music. As the last song ends, Lefty turns to Sergio, a hint of anxiety in his eyes.
LEFTY So, you still want to work with me, or are you against me too?


Sergio leans back n his chair, considering his words carefully.
SERGIO It’s different, different than anything you've written before. It’s dance music, like pop music! 

And you say the studio loves it?


Lefty nods, a smile forming on his lips.
LEFTY Yep, they are willing to put the full weight of the record company behind it.


SERGIO (surprised) Really?


LEFTY (smiling) Really. 

They think it has major potential.


Sergio sighs, running a hand through his hair.
SERGIO Alright, how can’t I deny my best friend, even if I don't understand the appeal?


Lefty grins, clapping Sergio on the shoulder.
LEFTY Thanks, man. I knew you’d come around.


Citrine looks up, smiling at the exchange.
CITRINE It's going to be great, you’ll see.


Montage of sales of Lefty’s new single, along with a music video clip.
Lefty's new music is a different kind of music, with a cutting-edge, high-energy drumbeat that resonates with listeners. The unique sound is a big hit, propelling Lefty to solo stardom. His song, "Back to Flesh," conquers the airwaves and becomes a remix dance hit in the clubs. It plays repeatedly at Studio 54, becoming an anthem for the extravagance of the early 80s.


One evening, as Lefty sits in his studio working on some new tunes, the phone rings. He picks up and a familiar voice greets him.
QUINCY JONES Hello, Lefty. This is Quincy Jones.


Lefty’s heart skips a beat.
LEFTY Wow, it’s an honor!


QUINCY JONES I just wanted to congratulate you on your hit. Every time I turn on the radio it’s on again. ”Back to Flesh" is truly incredible. It’s fresh and energetic… Well…you got something there kid.


LEFTY Thanks, Quincy. That means a lot coming from you.


QUINCY JONES I was wondering if you’d be interested in collaborating. I’m looking to bring that same kind of energy you captured on your record to the studio. I really think you’d bring something special to Michael’s next album.


Lefty can hardly believe his ears.
LEFTY Are you serious? Yeah… I’d love to work with MJ!


QUINCY JONES Great. I’m glad I reached out. Let’s set up a meeting for next week.


LEFTY Sound good.


Lefty hangs up, a wide smile spreading across his face. He feels a surge of excitement and validation, knowing that his hard work and determination have paid off.

 

 


Chapter 11: Green Street Press

INT. LEFTY AND CITRINE'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Lefty and Citrine sit on the floor, surrounded by sketches, notes, and magazines. Citrine's eyes light up with excitement as she talks about getting the first issue of Green Street Press together.


LEFTY Not to be negative, but do you know how hard this is going to be? This is a bid deal…This is going to take up a lot of time. Are you sure you can handle this and take care of Marci? 


CITRINE (gesturing animatedly) Your the one who tells me it’s how hard it is to find a magazine you relate to. There aren’t many out there… for people like us… creative people. We just don’t get heard, we are drowned out by commercialism and teen mags. There needs to be a platform for the underground art and music scene, where the avant-garde can thrive. 


LEFTY I know, I know, but this is a big endeavor. Maybe too big, especially with all that I’ve been through with my music lately. I feel like…if we are going to do this, we’d better be prepared for it to… ah…


CITRINE (Upset but determined) You were going to say fail. Well, if it fails, at least we tried. I have to find something to do when you’re gone on the road. I need something that is mine. Mine, Lefty. I can’t just be a stay at home mom…What about my dream? I’m a writer, I need to write… I am a creative person too, remember, It can’t always be about you.


They continue brainstorming, their ideas bouncing off each other with electric energy. Citrine reaches out to her network, and soon they have commitments from artists like Warhol, Basquiat, Keith Haring, and Robert Mapplethorpe to showcase their work in the magazine.


A few days later…
Citrine has a mock layout of the first issue put together to show Lefty. 
CITRINE (imagining) Imagine this: a feature on Andy Warhol's latest work alongside an interview with Jean-Michel Basquiat. It'd be revolutionary.


LEFTY (grinning) And we can spotlight new music, like that band I like from the UK.


CITRINE (holding up the draft) For the first issue, we have an exclusive interview with Warhol, a cover story on Basquiat's latest exhibition, and a review of that electronic band from England.


LEFTY (excitedly) So far, I like what I see. Keep going.


CITRINE We can review live shows, movies, albums and we can highlight social issues for our younger readers. I put a business plan together and talked to Sal about getting funding. I think I wanna do this. I think this can happen.


LEFTY Alright, Alright… I’m in. Not sure how much time I’ll have to devote to this, but I’ll help out as much as I can.  Oh man, You are going to be the death of me.

 

 

INT. LEFTY AND CITRINE'S LIVING ROOM - DAYTIME
One afternoon, their friend Manny drops by. He’s an eccentric painter known for his vibrant murals. Manny had a booklet that he is showing off with his new paintings in it. Manny looks over their future drafts with keen interest.


MANNY (sipping espresso) This is something special, you two. How do I get my work in here? I’ve been trying to get my work into Vanity Fair to review for years. I even sent my work to Rolling Stone. The rag hasn’t been any help. 


LEFTY (smiling) We're trying to keep it real, Manny. We want to be the go-to for anyone who wants something different from the mainstream. Something edgy. 


MANNY (nodding appreciatively) And that's why it's going to work.


LEFTY We’ll find out in a few weeks, when the first issue hits newsstands. I’m working with my old record label to help promote it. Citrine is putting her old man to work. She’s asked me to do a few shows and appearances in support of the release. Back to the dive bars for me.

 
The buzz around Green Street Press starts to grow. When the first issue finally hits the stands, it creates a sensation in both the art and music communities.

 

 

INT. LEFTY AND CITRINE'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHTTIME
Several months have gone by, and several issues have been released to great fanfare. 
One evening, Lefty finds Citrine sitting by the window, a copy of the latest issue in her lap. She looks up at him, her eyes filled with pride.


CITRINE It’s a success. I never thought…


LEFTY (sitting behind her, arms around her in an embrace) Yeah, you did. You knew…Somehow you knew it’d work.

 

 

INT. GREEN STREET PRESS OFFICE - LATE NIGHT
As Green Street Press continues to grow, Lefty and Citrine find their relationship strengthened by their shared passion and creative collaboration. They celebrate each issue as a testament to their vision and hard work. One late night, as they finish up another issue, their new business associate, Rick, a seasoned music producer, joins them in their studio.


RICK (leaning back in his chair, looking at the cover layout) This magazine is a game-changer. You two have tapped into something powerful.


CITRINE We're just getting started. There's so much more we want to do, more voices to amplify, different directions we could take this.


LEFTY (clapping Rick on the back) And with your help, we'll make sure those voices are heard loud and clear.


RICK I’m sure you want to get back to making music. This has gotta be a distraction. 


LEFTY It’s a good distraction. I’ve been doing music since I can remember, so something different, something where I can unleash my creative spirit … That's not a bad thing. 


Rick's presence brings a new level of professionalism to their project. His experience and connections open doors for Green Street Press, allowing them to reach an even wider audience.

 

 

INT. GREEN STREET PRESS OFFICE - AFTERNOON
As Lefty and Citrine are working on the next issue, a record executive named Tom Hargrove bursts into the room. 

Tom is looking anxious and annoyed.
TOM Lefty, we need to talk. Now.


LEFTY (standing up, concerned) Tom, what's going on?


TOM (angry) This magazine project of yours is messing with your head. You need to concentrate on your music. You have a career tp think about, not this side project.


LEFTY (defensive) Tom, Green Street Press is important to me, to Citrine, and to the people. It’s giving a platform to voices that need to be heard. I really want to do this. This isn’t…


TOM (leaning forward, intense) I get that, but your music career is what got you here. You need to focus. The industry is changing. Music Television, Duran Duran, Michael Jackson and his product placements —they’re redefining everything. It’s…. well…You need to adapt, stay relevant.


LEFTY (sighing) I can handle both. Citrine and I are building something special here. I swear I can do both. 


TOM (shaking his head) You're spreading yourself too thin. If you don't focus on your music, you'll get left behind. This is your career we’re talking about.


LEFTY (firmly) I'm not giving up on the magazine. It's part of who I am now. I'll find a way to make it work.


TOM (exasperated) Fine. But don't say I didn't warn you. The music industry is brutal. It’ll spit you out before you ever realize it. You’ve got to give something to the fans… and soon. How long has it been since you released a new song. A year…or Two? They aren’t going to be around forever and I’m just trying to help.


Tom storms out, leaving Lefty feeling conflicted and sad. Lefty realizes that Tom is right. He needs to get back to what made him successful. He needs to put out some new music.

 

 

INT. LEFTY AND CITRINE'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHTTIME
Lefty returns home to find Citrine working on the latest issue.


CITRINE (looking up) How did it go with Tom?


LEFTY (sighing) Psh! He thinks I need to focus more on my music and less on the magazine. What do you think? Am I spending too much time on the magazine. 


CITRINE (frowning) Maybe. Maybe he has a point. But hear me out… Green Street Press is important to you…to us. We’re building something meaningful here.


LEFTY (nodding) I know. I don’t want to give that up. 


But maybe… he might be right… Maybe I should get back to my music. You don’t need me anymore. I’m probably just getting in the way at this point. You can handle the magazine without me right? 


CITRINE (smiling softly) Sure, I guess. I know music is your first love. I’m just the mistress… at least that’s how it feels some nights. I know Music is your first love. 


LEFTY You’re crazy. Tacos are my first love.

 

INT. LEFTY’S STUDIO - NIGHTTME
Lefty works in the studio tirelessly creating a new solo record. Trying to out do his last release, he spends months creating and recording. Citrine follow her passion and spend a lot of time working late nights on the magazine and taking care of Marci. Marci is getting bigger and she is helping make dinner and doing dishes in the kitchen. 

 

Citrine is seen bumping into the wall while leaving the kitchen . She holds her head above her right eye and lays down on her bed.


 

 


Chapter 12: Pink Lemonade Sunset

LEFTY’S HOME - EVENING
TOM (Phone Call) Lefty, It’s Tom, I just wanted to give you a heads up. It’s not good. You’re being sued by three of the members of the Bad Rainbows. It says that you owe royalties for songs they cowrote with you for your last solo album. How do you want me to respond?


LEFTY Give them want ever they’ve asked for. Their my friends. At least they were.


TOM But you wrote those songs. Didn’t you?


LEFTY It was a confusion time. I don’t think, I’m pretty sure… Heck… they were around at times when those songs were written. I don’t know. Just give them their share. I don't wanna fight with my friends.


Lefty hangs up the phone. He makes himself a drink and sits with his guitar and an empty notebook. The phone rings but he refuses to pick it up. Lefty is feeling increasingly stifled and alone and his music is not flowing like it once did. Several hours go by and Lefty is sitting on the sofa, with his guitar next to him and no new lyrics.


CITRINE Hey it’s late, the tour leaves tomorrow. Are you even packed?


LEFTY Ugh! No, I haven’t yet.

You feeling any better?


CITRINE Not really, but I'm sure I'm fine. You better make sure you don’t forget your allergies pills again. You’d don’t want to be sneezing all over the place again.


LEFTY Do you think the Bad Rainbows will ever get back together? 


CITRINE Tough question


LEFTY I just miss those guys. We were a good band and things were going well. I don’t even know what happened? 

Was it me? 


CITRINE Sometimes, I think things just end. No real reason. They just do. Somethings are meant to end. If you're lucky, and you are. You get to have something great happen to you. Even if it’s fleeting. Gotta embrace life when it’s happening. 


LEFTY I know, sometimes I spend a lot of time thinking about what’s next. The future… I forget to appreciate what’s right in front of me.

 

 

INT. TOUR VENUE, CHICAGO - NIGHTTIME
Lefty finishes his set, the crowd roaring with applause. He steps off the stage, sweat dripping down his face. He takes a deep breath, feeling a mix of exhilaration and exhaustion. He wipes the sweat the exhaustion away. 


TOUR MANAGER Great show, Lefty. You've got a phone call waiting for you in the green room.


LEFTY (nodding) Thanks. I'll take it there.


Lefty heads to the green room, where the phone sits on a small table. He picks it up, expecting another routine call about the tour.
LEFTY Hello?


DR. CORDAY (voice on the phone) Mr. Lima, this is Doctor Corday. Citrine, your wife, is here in our hospital. You need to come back to LA immediately. How soon can you get here?


Lefty's heart pounds in his chest.
LEFTY What happened? Is she alright?


DR. CORDAY It's serious Mr. Lima. Please, come as soon as you can.


Lefty hangs up, his mind racing. He quickly informs his tour manager and the band members about the situation. 


SERGIO (placing a hand on Lefty's shoulder) We'll handle things here. Go be with your wife.


LEFTY (nodding, eyes filled with worry) Thanks, Sergio. I'll call you as soon as I know more.


He packs a carryon bag and get in a taxi cab. Lefty jumps on a plane back to Los Angeles that night.

 

 

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM, LOS ANGELES - DAYTIME
Lefty rushes into Citrine's room the next morning, finding her looking fragile but conscious. She smiles weakly as he enters the room, her eyes filled with love.


CITRINE (whispering) Hey you...


LEFTY (taking her hand) I'm here, love. I'm here.


The doctors deliver the devastating news: Citrine has an inoperable brain tumor at the base of her neck, and her time is limited. She has only a few weeks to live. Lefty is overwhelmed with grief but knows he must be strong for her and Marci.

 

 

INT. LEFTY AND CITRINE'S HOME - NIGHT
Lefty sits by Citrine's bedside, holding her hand. They talk about their memories, dreams, and the love they share.


CITRINE (voice weak) I'm scared, Lefty. I feel awful about leaving you alone… 


LEFTY Don’t talk that way. They’re gonna figure this out. 


CITRINE …to raise Marci. I’ve got so many things to tell you.


LEFTY (squeezing her hand gently) I know, love. But I'm here. 


CITRINE (smiling faintly, tears in her eyes) You've given me so much … happiness. Promise me you'll keep going, for you and for Marci.


LEFTY (tears welling up) I promise, Citrine. I'll make sure Marci knows how talented and loving you are. How much you mean to us.


As Citrine's condition worsens, Lefty finds solace in the moments they share, cherishing every second. He takes care of Marci, cooking, dressing he and finding strength in the responsibility of fatherhood. He takes solace in the daily activities and routine.

 

 

EXT. HOSPITAL - EVENING
Lefty makes his way to the hospital when he is greeted by an unexpected visitor. Dean Sweet, a familiar but unsettling figure, arrives in a long black town car. He stands just outside the hospital, visibly hesitant to cross the threshold.


The air grows colder as Lefty approaches. Dean's eyes glow faintly red, his presence dark and foreboding. He paces back and forth like a man on a mission, anxiety etched on his face.


DEAN (stopping Lefty with an eerie calm) We should talk.


LEFTY (groaning inwardly) Oh no, not you, not now. I don't have time for your bullshit.


Dean's smile is thin and almost predatory, his teeth unnaturally sharp.
DEAN (grabbing Lefty's arm with a grip that feels like ice) Do you have time for me to save your wife?


Lefty's eyes narrow, anger and desperation mingling in his gaze.
LEFTY How dare you… What are you talking about? This isn't the time for your games.


DEAN (intense, his voice like a hiss) This isn't a game, Lefty. I can help her. I have... powers. You need to listen to me right now.


LEFTY (pulling his arm free, feeling the icy burn) And what will it cost me, Dean? My soul? Are you kidding me… maybe my sanity? Hell… I don't have any of that left to give.


Dean's eyes flicker with a sinister light, his voice dripping with malevolence.
DEAN (sincere, almost pleading) This isn't about you, Lefty. It's about her. I can give her more time, you more time.


LEFTY (cutting him off) No way… ah ah!


DEAN but you need to decide. Now.


Lefty hesitates, torn between hope and suspicion.
LEFTY (whispering, feeling a chill down his spine) I’m not buying this. Uh… You’ve come for my soul…haven’t you? Is that the play? 


Dean's smile widens, revealing his lower rows of sharp teeth. His voice drops to a chilling whisper.
DEAN Yep…Just your little ol’ useless soul. I've got the paperwork right here. All you have to do is sign on the line that says your name.
Dean's eyes burn with a malevolent light.


DEAN Your soul is my ticket to a whole new level. I go from being stuck here on this godforsaken hellhole called Earth to upper management. And I really do want that job. Your name has been in my book for a long time. I've just been waiting around. Waiting around until you needed something. And now… I've got you.


Dean's smile is almost triumphant, his presence more menacing than ever.
DEAN Just a signature, Lefty. That’s it. Sign on that line, and I'll save her. You’ll get thirty more years together. She’ll have more time. You’ll get more time… Marci will have more time with her… But remember, once you sign, there's no going back. You're mine. You go where I say, do what I say, play the music I say. Help me get other souls. You…are…mine.


LEFTY Why do you want me so badly? I'm not that special.


Dean's adjusts his dark coat, his collar and then he tightens his tie. 
DEAN Really? You don’t think so? Interesting! 

Well… Your father made a promise… to protect you, no matter what, when you left home. He prayed and prayed. He even offered his soul for yours. He sat up nights praying…  praying for your soul. That made the deal even more “sweet”. Pun intended…(Laughter) Well, I told the boss and… the boss, he just had to have your soul. 


Lefty's heart pounds in his chest. The thought of losing Citrine is unbearable, but selling his soul to Dean Sweet, a terrifying prospect.
LEFTY No. (Shaking his head) This isn't what Citrine would want.


Lefty thinks of his father and their last conversation. He acts quickly and reaches into Dean's pocket, pulling out the contract. Before Dean can react, Lefty tears the contract into two pieces.


A strange sound like a scream and a whisper happen at the same time! The air around them seems to crackle with dark energy.


DEAN (fury twisting his expression, his voice echoing with demonic rage) You fool! There will be hell to pay! Do you know what you've done? 


Dean grabs Lefty, pushing him back against the exterior wall of the hospital. The force of Dean’s thrust breaks the neck off Lefty's prized acoustic guitar.


LEFTY (firmly, despite the fear gripping him) Yes, I do. 

I'm protecting what matters most. I won't sell my soul, not for anything. I've got people who depend on me.


Dean's eyes burn with an unholy fire, his grip tightening.
DEAN (voice seething with rage) You will regret this, Lefty. Mark my words.


Lefty watches as Dean storms off, his dark figure disappearing into the shadows. Lefty, standing with tears in his eyes, looking over the broken pieces of his father's guitar. He gathers the remnants and puts them into his duffle bag. A few of the bigger pieces have to be carried in his hands.

 


INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - NIGHT
Lefty rushes into the hospital, hope and dread swirling inside him. He reaches Citrine's room, finding her weak but conscious. She smiles faintly as he enters, her eyes filled with love.


CITRINE (whispering) Lefty...


LEFTY (taking her hand) I'm here, love. I'm here.


As the hours pass, Citrine's condition stabilizes slightly, a small but significant improvement. Lefty clings to the hope that their time together is not dictated by deals with the devil but by the strength of their love.
Days turn into weeks, and though Citrine's health continues to decline, Lefty cherishes every moment, every touch, every word they share. He takes care of Marci, finding strength in the everyday responsibility of fatherhood.

 

 

INT. LEFTY AND CITRINE'S HOME - DAYTIME
Citrine dictates her last words that finish her book to Lefty. His last expression of devotion, writing all her thoughts and stories down to share with the world.


CITRINE (voice weak but clear) Promise me, Lefty. Promise me you'll keep going, for you and for Marci.


LEFTY (tears streaming down his face) I promise, Citrine. I'll make sure she knows how amazing you are, how talented, how loved you were.


When Citrine finally passes away a week later, Lefty is heartbroken but grateful for the extra time they had together. He holds and comforts Marci, determined to honor Citrine's memory and live his life with the integrity she valued so much.

 

 

INT. LEFTY'S STUDIO - NIGHTTIME
Lefty sits in his studio, the memories of Citrine swirl in his head. He looks over her desk and sees all the things she was working on. In his frustration and sadness, he pushes it all onto the floor in anger. He yells at the top of his lungs.


LEFTY (Yelling, while looking up to god) Why, why would you take her from me? Take her away from her daughter. I don’t understand! 


He picks up a picture off the floor of his family all together. 
LEFTY (Still speaking to god) I’m having a hard time understanding your plan. Is this part of your plan? Your plan… Do you like seeing people suffer? 


He finds his old acoustic guitar in the corner of the room, He looks over it, looking at all the scratches and chips. He realizes while looking at it, no life is perfect. No life is without scrapes and scratches. He plays guitar. Not for anyone else but himself. The notes filled with emotion and passion and suffering. His song Strawberry Lemonade Sunset is written out of grief and contemplation. His journey continues without Citrine, marked by love, loss, and the reaffirmation of his values.

 

 


Chapter 13: Blue Skies Above

INT. SAL'S OFFICE, HOLLYWOOD - AFTERNOON
Gold records and memorabilia line the walls of the office, a testament to past successes and the weight of his current predicament. Lefty is muttering to himself. Lefty paces the spacious office, visibly shaken and unsure of his next steps.
Sal enters the room, a tall, large man in a brown polyester suit. He shakes Lefty's hand firmly, then takes a seat across from him, concern etched on his face.


SAL (adjusting his suit after sitting) So, Lefty, what do you plan to do now? After everything that's happened, you know… with Citrine… You still have a tour to fin   …ish.


LEFTY (sighs, running a hand through his hair) I've been thinking a lot about that, Sal. I need to spend more time with Marci. I… I… I’m need to decide if I should sell the magazine. 

just don’t know… Marci, she needs me… now more than ever.

SAL (nodding, understanding) That makes sense. But what about the music? The band? …The tour? You gonna finish the tour? 


Lefty looks out the window of the high-rise, the bustling city below a stark contrast to his internal turmoil. The sky is a pristine blue with no clouds.


LEFTY I need to take a step back from touring, making music. I think… it’s time I focus on managing Green Street Press or I sell it. Not sure at this point.

and being there for Marci. I think I should cancel the tour. I can’t right now. I can't… Can I get out of the tour, the contracts? 


SAL (leaning back, nodding thoughtfully) No, Well yeah, but… that a big decision, are you sure you should make it…right now…. What about your songwriting? You’ve got a gift, Lefty. You shouldn’t let it go to waste. If you take the foot off the gas now, they’ll forget you. I hate to say it but…We’re are making a lot of money right now. Are you willing to give that up?


LEFTY (eyes brightening slightly) I’m not giving up on music entirely. I’ll still write songs and produce, you know… for other artists. I just need to stay out of the limelight… for a while. It’s time for a different pace. Family needs to come first… I need to get my head on straight.

You understand, don’t you Sal?


SAL (nods, placing a reassuring hand on Lefty's shoulder) Sure… I guess. You gonna be alright kid?

 

LEFTY I don’t know. I’ve never felt this way.

 

 

INT. LEFTY'S HOME, 1990 - EVENING
The song "Blue Skies Above" plays softly in the background. A montage is shown of Lefty working with Marci on homework, playing video games. Lefty is seen working on music,  doing chores and housework. He is seen filling his time with things that fill your life that aren't relationships or personal enjoyment. 

The montage ends with Lefty sitting at his desk, surrounded by drafts and layout designs for the upcoming issue of Green Street Press. The room is filled with a sense of purpose and quiet determination. Lefty is still a busy guy, just without his music or his band in his life. 


Emily, the lead editor, walks in with a stack of papers.
EMILY (setting the papers down) Hey, Lefty. We need to finalize this issue and get it ready for press. The deadline is looming.


LEFTY (looking up, nodding) Alright, let's get to it. What's left on the agenda?


EMILY (flipping through her notes) We need to decide on the cover story. There are a few options, but we haven't settled on one yet.


LEFTY (leaning back in his chair, considering) Let me see ‘em.


EMILY We have a piece on the rise of indie folk bands, an interview with a prominent new wave artist, and a feature on the evolution of electronic music.


LEFTY (tapping his fingers on the desk thoughtfully) Those are all good, but I think we need something with a bit more punch for the cover.

EMILY (raising an eyebrow) Any ideas?


LEFTY (nods, a spark of inspiration in his eyes) Let's lead with an article about the growth of underground grunge music and why it appeals to women. It's a unique angle that I think will grab some attention.


EMILY (smiling, jotting down notes) I love it. It's timely and different. We'll need to adjust some of the layout to make it fit, but I think it will work perfectly.


Lefty stands up, walking over to a layout board with drafts pinned up.
LEFTY Alright, let's move the indie folk piece to the inside spread. We can highlight the new wave interview in the features section and give the electronic music piece a two-page spread toward the back.


EMILY (nodding, making quick adjustments on her tablet) Got it. I'll get the team to start on the changes right away. Anything else we need to address?


LEFTY Yes, I’ve written a tribute to Citrine. Can you believe it's been five years?  

I want it to be an important part of the next issue. A large portrait of Citrine should be placed inside somewhere, preferably upfront near the beginning.


EMILY (softly, understanding the significance) Of course, Lefty. We'll make it beautiful. Citrine's memory deserves to be honored in her creation.


LEFTY (looking over the drafts one more time) Make sure the article on the grunge bands includes interviews with some female fans. I want to capture their perspective on why these bands resonate with them. It will add depth to the piece.


EMILY (nodding) Absolutely. I'll make sure they ask those questions.


LEFTY (smiling, feeling confident) Great. Let's also ensure the visuals are strong. High-energy concert photos and some candid backstage shots will really bring the story to life.


EMILY Consider it done. We'll make this issue one of our best yet.


LEFTY (smiling) I have no doubt. Thanks, Emily.


Emily returns the smile and leaves the office. Lefty takes a moment to reflect on how far Green Street Press has come. He feels a sense of pride in the publication and its ability to stay relevant and cutting-edge for all these years.
Returning to his desk, he begins to draft his editor's note for the upcoming issue, explaining the loss of Citrine Lima to the readers and how important her voice still is all these years later.

 

 

INT. LEFTY'S HOME - NIGHTTIME
One evening, Marci sits at the kitchen table, doing her homework. Lefty strums his guitar softly, humming a tune.


MARCI (looking up from her drawing) Dad, what song is that?


LEFTY (smiling) Just a new song, sweetheart. Something for another artist to sing.


MARCI (tilting her head, curious) Why don’t you sing any of your songs anymore?


Lefty puts down his guitar and walks over to her, kneeling beside her chair.
LEFTY (putting his hand on the back of her chair) I still love making music, Marci. But right now, I want to be here… with you. 

That’s what matters most.


MARCI (satisfied with his answer) I like it when you’re home. 

I wish mom was here too.


Lefty hugs her, feeling a deep sense of sadness and peace.

 

INT. LEFTY'S HOME - DAYTIME

Over the next five years, Green Street Press flourishes under Lefty’s management. The magazine becomes a cornerstone of the independent music scene, showcasing art and music that push boundaries and challenge the mainstream.
Lefty also finds success as a songwriter and producer. He quietly works with various artists, helping them craft hit songs that dominate the radio waves. Despite staying out of the limelight, his influence in the music industry remains strong.


One day, Sal visits Lefty at his home, bringing news from the industry.
SAL (handing him a copy of a chart-topping song) Lefty, you’ve got another hit on your hands.


LEFTY (glancing at the paper, a smile tugging at his lips) That’s great to hear, Sal. It’s nice to know I’m still making an music that people enjoy. 


SAL (nods) You’re doing more than that, Lefty. You’re shaping the future of music, even from behind the scenes. By the way, I'm sending you some new bands—stuff that is really out there. Really cutting edge. I think you’ll like them. 


LEFTY (looking over at Marci, who is now older and engrossed in her schoolwork at the kitchen table) Is this for the magazine or for me to work with?


Sal looks around and notices Lefty's calm and content demeanor. He sees Marci thriving.
SAL You've really found your balance, haven't you?


LEFTY (smiling warmly) Yeah, I think I have. It's not always easy, but it’s worth it.


SAL Do you miss it? You know the spotlight? Most stars I know would. 


LEFTY Nah!… (under his breath) Well maybe sometimes.

He looks over at the Bad Rainbow posters and news clippings on the wall.

 



Chapter 14: Colorful Stories

INT. LEFTY’S BACKHOUSE STUDIO, VENICE BEACH, CA 1997 - AFTERNOON
The studio is filled with a nostalgic atmosphere, guitars and papers scattered around, reflecting the rich history of Lefty's musical journey. The walls are adorned with photos, memorabilia, and old posters from his career. Sergio steps inside, fresh off another tour without Lefty, his presence immediately lighting up the room.


SERGIO (calling out, smiling warmly) Lefty, how’ve you been, asere?


LEFTY (looking up, pleasantly surprised) Sergio! Long time no see. Come in, get yourself a beer.


Sergio open a mini fridge and grab a beer, looking around the familiar space, a sense of nostalgia washing over him.


SERGIO (thinking aloud) Every time I’m on the road, I hear the same questions, the same one… When are Lefty and the Bad Rainbows going back on tour? When is Lefty Lima going to make a return? Does he still write music?


LEFTY (chuckling, shaking his head) Pass. Everyone in the industry knows I’m still making music.


SERGIO (leaning forward, serious) Yeah, but the fans don’t. Unless they’re hardcore fans, they think you’ve crawled under a rock and died. I think it’s time for you to write for yourself again. 


LEFTY (sighing, leaning back) Now that the magazine is off my plate, Marci is older, maybe. 

I don’t know… I’m still producing music from time to time. My own music… it’s taken a backseat I guess. It just felt weird to create for a few years, especially music about my life.


SERGIO Did you ever write a song about that Dean fellow? Ya know…The devil in loafers?


LEFTY Heck no! I never want to think about that creep ever again. 


SERGIO (smiling encouragingly) Whatever happened to those color songs you used to talk about? Don’t you have a few of those babies lying around still? Did you ever finish that project?


LEFTY (surprised) I haven’t looked at that notebook in years.


Sergio stands up, walking over to a dusty bookshelf. He points to a familiar notebook with little red hearts on the cover and pulls it off the shelf.


SERGIO (handing the notebook to Lefty) Well, maybe it’s time you did. The world could use a little more Lefty Lima right about now. Have you heard the crap that’s on the radio these days? Geez!


Lefty feels a spark of inspiration igniting within him. He takes the notebook and flips through the pages, seeing the beginnings of the songs he had once been so passionate about. Notes about instrumentation and the arrangements are written on the margin. 


LEFTY (murmuring, tracing the lines of lyrics and chords) These songs... they were supposed to be something… something special. Citrine and I talked about these songs all the time… over the years. I just never got to it.


SERGIO (placing a hand on his friend’s shoulder) They still could be. The industry might know you’re busy, but the fans, well… they miss you. They miss your voice, your music. It’s time to remind them why they loved you in the first place.


Lefty closes the notebook, a determined look in his eyes.
LEFTY You’re right, Sergio. Maybe it’s time to bring these songs back to life.


Over the next few weeks, Lefty dives back into his music, rediscovering the joy of writing and playing for himself. He spends hours in the studio, revisiting old melodies and creating new ones. The color songs project, once a distant memory, becomes his primary focus.


Marci, now a teenager, watches her father gather his resources for this project. Making calls and playing guitar throughout the house.
MARCI (smiling) These aren’t like your other songs dad. I like these… I mean I like your other songs too, but these feel different. More personal. 

Plus, I haven’t seen you smile this much in years.


LEFTY (smiling at his daughter) Thanks, Marci. It feels good to be back at it. Sergio and the some of guys will be here tomorrow. Do you think you can take care of dinner and stuff without me.


MARCI (In a snobby accent) Oh, pardon me… I’ll must leave the maestro and his court to do their work.

 

INT. HOLLYWOOD RECORDING STUDIO - DAYTIME
Lefty sits in his studio, reliving memories of the past and searching for inspiration. He picks up his phone and dials a familiar number, his heart pounding with anticipation.

SUGARCANE SUTTER (on the phone, gruff voice) Hello?


LEFTY Hey, Sugar, it’s Lefty.


SUGARCANE SUTTER (recognizing the voice, warming up) Lefty! It’s been too long, my friend. How are you? You still play that o’beat up telecaster?


LEFTY Yeah, still got it. 

Hey, I’ve been working on some new tracks, and I could really use your magic touch on a few. Would you come out to LA and record with me and the guys?


SUGARCANE SUTTER (excitedly) Are you kidding? I’d love to! I’ll hop on the next flight.


LEFTY (grinning) Great! I’ve got the perfect song for you, Sugar. It's bittersweet and very bluesy. Right up your alley.


SUGARCANE SUTTER (chuckling) Can’t wait to jam with you again, kid.


LEFTY (laughing) Kid? I haven’t been called that in a long time.


SUGARCANE SUTTER (warmly) Well, you’ll always be that kid with the beat-up guitar to me.

 

 

INT. HOLLYWOOD RECORDING STUDIO - A FEW DAYS LATER
Sugarcane Sutter walks into the studio, his presence immediately felt. He carries two guitar cases: his iconic Gibson ES-355 and a Fender guitar case. He opens the Fender case to reveal the white Stratocaster Lefty played when they first met.


LEFTY (astonished, face turning flush) Did you bring that here just for me to play?


SUGARCANE SUTTER (smiling) No, I brought that here because it’s yours. I’m giving it to you. I’ve never been able to play that guitar the way you made it sound that night. I’ve tried and tried. Others have played it, and it’s never sounded that good. You know, guitars need to be played. They need to be loved. They got stories in them… And this guitar wants to be played… (pointing at Lefty’s chest) by you.


LEFTY (honored) How can I say no to that.


SUGARCANE SUTTER Just play it like you did that one night at Telly’s. Boy, you were full of piss and vinegar back then. You thought you were all that and a bag a chips.


LEFTY I just had something to prove.


Lefty takes the guitar out of the case and plugs it in. It feels like it was made for him. They begin to play the song Lefty wrote called "Mississippi Blues." The studio fills with the soulful sounds of guitar and piano, their music blending seamlessly.


Marci peeks into the studio, watching in awe.
MARCI (whispering) Hey Maestro, is it safe to enter?


LEFTY (glancing at her, smiling) Sure, sweetheart. We’re just getting started.


After a break, Lefty's daughter, Marci, enters the studio, her curiosity piqued by the presence of her father's old mentor. She looks over the white Stratocaster.


LEFTY (smiling, gesturing to Sugarcane) Marci, I want you to meet someone very special. This is Sugarcane Sutter. He’s been a huge influence on me since I could play a guitar.


SUGARCANE SUTTER (extending a hand, grinning warmly) Nice to meet you, Marci. Your dad's talked a lot about you.


MARCI (shaking his hand, eyes wide with wonder) Nice to meet you too, Mr. Sutter. Can you tell me what my dad was like when he was young and starting out?


Sugarcane chuckles, settling into a comfortable chair in the corner of the room.
SUGARCANE SUTTER Oh, have I got stories. Let me tell you about the time we played Monterey Pops together.


Marci sits down with the Stratocaster on her lap, eager to hear the story.
SUGARCANE SUTTER It was a hot summer night. About 90 degrees at 8pm. Everybody was having a good time, the music was flowing, and the crowd was electric.


Lefty, standing nearby, listening fondly with smile on his face.
SUGARCANE SUTTER Your dad was at the top of his game back then. We closed the show that night, and let me tell you, he was phenomenal. His energy was infectious, and he had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand.


MARCI (looking at her father, eyes wide with admiration) Wow, Dad, I didn't know you played at Monterey Pops.


LEFTY (nodding, a hint of pride in his smile) Yeah, those were some unforgettable times.


SUGARCANE SUTTER It was a few years after he met your mom. And your mom, she was something else. She had this spark, this fire. She was the heart and soul of everything he did back then. I suspect… (He trails off… choked up)


MARCI (smiling, feeling a deep connection to her parents' legacy) I wish I could have seen it.


SUGARCANE SUTTER (patting her shoulder gently) I'm sure you can.. You see it every day in your dad's music and in her magazine.


As the evening winds down, They get back to recording. Lefty feels a renewed sense of purpose. The stories of his past, the support of his old mentor, and the love of his daughter all combine to fuel his drive.


LEFTY (shaking Sugarcane's hand) Thanks for coming, Sugar.


SUGARCANE SUTTER Anytime, kid. 

And remember, you're never too old to make new memories.

 

 

INT. BAD RAINBOWS REHEARSAL SPACE - NIGHTTIME
In the studio, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation as the members of the Bad Rainbows gather for the first time in years. Laughter and hugs are exchanged, and the camaraderie that once defined the band quickly resurfaces.


LEFTY (standing in the center, holding a notebook) Listen, the past is the past. I’ve missed this. I’ve miss us. And so have the fans.


ANDRE (making a smart ass remark) Nobody’s missed your…


JAMES (cutting Andre off) We’ve missed you too, Lefty. So, what’s this new music you’ve been working on? 

Planning a reunion tour?


LEFTY Maybe… Here…(holding up his old notebook) I’ve written a series of songs called 'Colorful Stories.' There’s a song for every color of the rainbow. 


MARK (raising an eyebrow) Every color? That sounds intriguing. What else?


LEFTY (nodding, flipping through the pages) well… Each song represents a different part of my journey. Red is for passion, orange for where I started out back in Florida, yellow for happiness and joy, green for understanding, blue is specifically for Sugarcane and I to play together, purple for the memories of lost loves in far off lands, and pink for spirituality and grief. 


SERGIO Did you do a brown song? 


LEFTY No!… I’ll leave that to you… But there is a white song, a black song, and a silver and grey song. Heck, I wrote a gold song that reminds me of the best times when I was young.


ANDRE (giggling) Interesting concept, Lefty. Which one are we starting with?


LEFTY (smiling back, excited) Let’s start with 'Yellow.' Yellow is written about Citrine. It’s a positive song, just like she was.


As the band begins to play, the studio fills with the vibrant sounds of "Yellow Citrine." The energy is electric, and it feels as if no time has passed since they last played together. Lefty pours his heart into the performance, his voice strong and emotive.


JAMES (nodding appreciatively after the song ends) Man, that is one of your best songs yet. I hope all the others are as good.


SERGIO (tapping his drumsticks together thoughtfully) If the rest of the songs are anything like that one, we’re in for a hell of a ride.


LEFTY (smiling, feeling a sense of pride and fulfillment) I think they are. There’s something personal in each one. 


SERGIO So, a tour?


LEFTY (Clapping his hands together) Yeah, I was getting to that. It’s time for us to get back on the road. 


JAMES Finally! Oh Man! I can’t wait to get back out there.


LEFTY That’s where are fans fell in love with us the first time. I’m sure we can do it again.


With the Bad Rainbows back together and the new songs taking shape, Lefty decides to make an announcement through the Green Street Press. The magazine features an exclusive preview of the upcoming work, reigniting excitement among fans and the industry alike.

 

The Comeback Tour
The night of the first comeback concert arrives, and Lefty stands backstage, his heart pounding with a mix of nerves and excitement. The band members gather around him, their camaraderie strong like the old days.


JASON You ready for this, Lefty?

 

LEFTY (nods with a determined look in his eyes) More than ever. 

 

The curtain goes up quickly. Three giant spinning fans are placed at the back of the stage. Light show through them. This gives the crowd a small preview of the drummer.


Lefty looks at his friend whose traveled with him on this journey the whole way and gives him a nod of thank you.
SERGIO (twirling his drumsticks) Let’s do it Asere!
Click, click, click of Sergio's drumsticks…


As the rest of the band steps onto the stage for the first time in years, the crowd roars, a sea of familiar faces and new fans eager to hear their new and old music. Lefty picks up his guitar, and walks out to the center of the stage. A spotlight hits Lefty as he reaches his mark. 


LEFTY (whispers to himself before launching into the first song) This one’s for you, Citrine.


The energy of the Bad Rainbows is electric, and their chemistry undeniable. Each song from the "Colorful Stories" series resonates with the audience, blending the past with the present, honoring Citrine's memory and celebrating Lefty's journey.


As the tour progresses, Lefty feels more alive than he has in years. The audience responds with overwhelming enthusiasm, their applause and cheers echoing the triumph of his return. Each venue is bigger than the last. Nights are added because of word of mouth.


Due to the overwhelming response to their return, Lefty and the Bad Rainbows embark on a world tour. As they travel from city to city, their music resonates with their audiences, old and new. The excitement is palpable, and the band’s chemistry is stronger than ever.

 


INT. CONCERT HALL, IRELAND - EVENING 1998

When they arrive in Ireland, Lefty feels a knot of nervousness in his stomach. He wonders if he will see Kiva, the woman who once held a significant place in his heart. Although he hasn't seen her in years, he’d received a note of condolence from her when Citrine passed away. The memory of Kiva stirs a mixture of emotions within him. He thinks about that part of his past for the first time in years.

 

LEFTY (walking down the hall backstage and handing a guy in his 20s some papers) Hey Tim, can you pass out this set list for tonight? 


Lefty heads into his dressing room to change. There is a knock at the door. He opens the door, and there stands Kiva, looking as radiant as ever. Beside her is a young girl, about twelve years old. Lefty feels a rush of excitement mixed with nostalgia as he sees Kiva.


LEFTY Kiva… Hi… It’s been a long time.


KIVA (smiling warmly) Hello, Lefty. It’s good to see you again.


LEFTY (looking at the girl standing beside Kiva) And who’s this?


Kiva (placing her hand on her daughter’s shoulder) This is Aoife, my daughter.


AOIFE (shyly) Hi, Mr. Lima.


LEFTY Hello, Aoife. It’s nice to meet you.


They step inside the room, and Lefty closes the door behind them. The room is filled with a comfortable silence as they all take a seat.

 

LEFTY So, how have you been?


KIVA I’m good, things are good. You know… this one here keeps me busy. 


LEFTY Yeah, Marci keeps me on my toes too. Never a dull moment, huh?


KIVA I’ve been followed your career. I really like the one song you did a few years ago for that movie… 

You got my card right?


LEFTY (nods) Thanks. Yeah, It was tough for a while but Marci’s keeping me going. 


KIVE I’m glad to hear that. It’s was really great to see you. I…


AOIFE (looking up at her mother and then at Lefty) Mom says you're pretty good on guitar. I play piano.


LEFTY (chuckles softly) Your mom is too kind. She saw me at my best. Many, many years ago.


KIVA Purple rose… I’m glad you finally put it out there. It’s hard not to think about Texas when I hear that songs.

 

After the concert, they continue to talk and reminisce. Lefty and Kiva share stories of their past, filling Aoife in on their adventures and the music that defined their youth.


KIVA I’m really glad we came tonight. It’s good to reconnect, to see you doing so well.


LEFTY It’s good to see you too and to meet Aoife. You wouldn’t believe the things I’ve thought about lately. The music has stirred up all kinds of things.


AOIFE I’m glad you’re back, Mr. Lima.


LEFTY (smiling) Thank you, Aoife. And please, call me Lefty. Everybody does.


LEFTY Did you come by yourselves… or are you here with someone? 


AOIFE There not together anymore. My dad has a new family in Brixton. I have a half brother named Paul now.


LEFTY (under his breathe) Really 


As the crowd begins to disperse, he finds Kiva and Aoife are the last one there.


LEFTY (approaches them) So this is goodbye… again?


KIVA (returning the smile) I hope not. 


LEFTY Here’s my number (handing Kiva a piece of paper) Let’s try and stay in touch this time. And if you ever find yourselves in Los Angeles, you’re more than welcome to stay with me, I’ve got plenty of room for you and Aoife.


AOIFE Mom, I wanna go to LA.


KIVA I'm dying to see some sunshine for a change. I could really use some blue skies.


LEFTY Me too, Kiva. Me too.


They share a lingering hug, and Lefty bends down to give Aoife a high-five.

LEFTY (to Aoife) Keep practicing that piano. You’ve got a great teacher there.

 


INT. SMALL HOTEL ROOM - EVENING

Back in his hotel room, Lefty reflects on the evening. Reconnecting with Kiva and meeting Aoife has filled him with a renewed sense of purpose. He picks up his guitar and strums a few chords, letting the music flow. He calls Marci the next morning.


LEFTY Hey, sweetheart. Guess who I saw last night?


MARCI Matt Damon


LEFTY Nope, do you remember me telling you about Kiva? Well, they came to the show last night. Her and her daughter, Aoife. It was pretty cool seeing them. 

So weird.


MARCI That’s awesome, Dad. Maybe they can visit us sometime?


LEFTY Maybe. We could all use some sunshine and blue skies these days..

 

 

INT. LEFTY’S HOME, LOS ANGELES, 1999
A few months after their reunion in Ireland, Kiva and Aoife visit Los Angeles. Lefty and Marci eagerly await their arrival at the airport. When Kiva and Aoife step off the plane, the California sunshine bathes them in a warm welcome.


KIVA (embracing Lefty) It's good to see you again. Wow, it so sunny here. 
Kiva puts on her sunglasses.


LEFTY It's great to see you too, Kiva. Welcome to LA. 

How was the flight?


KIVA Long. I always have a hard time sleeping on a plane. 


MARCI (greeting Aoife with a friendly hug) Hi, Aoife! I've heard so much about you.

 

EXT. VENICE BEACH - AFTERNOON
The sun shines brightly as Lefty, Kiva, Marci, and Aoife make their way to Venice Beach Sidewalk. The air is filled with the sounds of waves crashing and laughter from the crowds enjoying the beach. They fit right in, walking with shopping bags slung over their shoulders, looking just like any other tourists enjoying a day out.


AOIFE Can we go to the boardwalk?


LEFTY Absolutely… Let’s see what we can find.


As they make their way further down the boardwalk, Lefty spots a stand selling vintage vinyl records. 


KIVA (thumbing through the records) Take a look at these. These are some real gems in here. Do you still have a record player? 


LEFTY Any of my of albums in there?


KIVA (picks up an old record, a nostalgic smile on her face) Now this takes me back. It’s the old Bad Rainbows album. 


LEFTY (finds one of Sugarcane Sutter's albums and holds it up) Hmm…Remember when we used to spend hours looking for records like these? We had that old 60s record player in the wood cabinet.


KIVA How could I forget? Those were some of the good times.


MARCI Dad, can we get some ice cream?


Kiva and Aoife quickly fit into Lefty's life with Marci. They spend their days exploring Los Angeles, visiting beaches, and enjoying the vibrant cultural scene. At night, they gather around Lefty's home, sharing stories and laughter.


One evening, after a day at the beach, they sit around the dining table, enjoying a homemade dinner made by Marci and Aoife. Kiva looks around, a contented smile on her face. 


KIVA (to Aoife) What do think about a roast for dinner tomorrow?


LEFTY (reaching across the table, taking Kiva’s hand) Sounds good, perfect, in fact.


KIVA (nods, her eyes filled with warmth as she looks around the room) Yes, it does.


As the weeks pass, Lefty and Kiva find themselves falling in love once more, picking up where they left off so many years before. They share quiet moments in the garden, late-night conversations, and the joy of watching their daughters become fast friends.


One night, Lefty takes Kiva to a rooftop overlooking the city. The twinkling lights of LA stretch out before them. 


LEFTY I've missed this…this us, I’ve missed you. (he says softly, wrapping his arm around her)


KIVA (leaning into him, her head resting on his shoulder) Me too, I never thought we’d be here… The world is so different now, and so are we, but this feels…


They share a tender kiss.


Lefty's home becomes a sanctuary of love and memories. The walls are adorned with photos capturing moments from his life. Pictures with Sugarcane, Sergio, Citrine, Kiva, and Aoife, and the Bad Rainbows band. Images of his father and his mother, and a touching photo of Lefty and his father together again, both with guitars on.

 

 

INT. LEFTY'S HOME - EVENING
One afternoon Lefty and Kiva are looking through old photo albums, Marci points to a picture of Lefty and Citrine. 
MARCI Dad, tell us about this one.


LEFTY (smiling while reflecting a mix of joy and sadness) That was the day Citrine and I started Green Street Press. She was the center of my universe, at least until you came along.


Lefty's colorful stories are shown on his face as well as through his music. He continues to write and perform, drawing inspiration from the love and support of his family and friends. The songs he creates reflect his journey, each note a testament to the life he has lived.


LEFTY (picking up his guitar) Hey, wanna hear something? I just finished it this morning.


He plays Colorful Stories on his guitar.
His voice carries the emotions of his experiences in the song. The room fills with the sound of his music, a blend of past and present, of love and loss, of hope and renewal.


KIVA I am not sure that’s a Bad Rainbow’s song. 


LEFTY It isn’t. That one’s.., well, it’s just for us.


Surrounded by the people he cares about, Lefty realizes that his life has been a journey of love, music, and cherished memories. The stories he has written are etched into his music and the walls of his home.
As they sit together, enjoying the warmth of their shared company, Lefty feels a deep sense of fulfillment. He has lived a life well-lived, filled with friends and the journey of making music with the people he loves.

 

 

INT. LEFTY’S HOME, AWARD SHOW NIGHT - 1999
The evening of the awards show arrives, and Lefty stands in front of the mirror, adjusting his tie. The room is filled with an air of excitement and anticipation. 

Kiva enters, looking stunning in her formal evening gown.
KIVA (gently, placing her arm around him) Lefty, it's time to go. You don't want to be late for your big night.


LEFTY Is there anyway I can get out of it at this point?

 

MARCI (knocking on the door, peeking her head inside) The limo is here, we should go. 


Lefty turns to see his daughter, looking elegant and grown-up in her dress. Aoife stands beside her, equally radiant.
They all gather in the living room, a picture of elegance and unity. Lefty in his classic tuxedo, Kiva in a graceful gown, Marci and Aoife glowing with excitement. 

They step outside, the cool evening air a gentle reminder of the special night ahead. 

The limo waits at the curb with the door open and a chauffeur standing outside.

 

KIVA Tonight is your night, babe.

 

The limo glides down the neighborhood street, carrying them all together toward the awards show.

Lefty’s song Silver & Gray plays…

The end.
 

 

Copyright Griffin Lauerman 2024