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incorrigible-rapscallion · 5 years

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A Serial Killer’s Guide to Men and Manslaughter--SCRIPT (pgs. 3-7)

EXT./INT. DAVID'S CAR/PLEASANT GROVE - DAY (TRAVELING)

David drives a 70s-ERA TOYOTA J40 CRUISER. An upbeat song plays from the tape deck. Achilles sits in the passenger seat. The scenery is picturesque with a valley of colorful trees.

David enters into the town of Pleasant Grove--which is, as the name implies, a truly pleasant place to live. The streets are lined with vintage, renovated storefronts and oak trees. David stops at an intersection.

On one side of the street is a welcoming park. On the other is a cafe patio with a group of WOMEN from THE RED HAT SOCIETY (RHS) seated outside. The RHS ladies make eyes and point at David’s car.

The WRIGHT PLACE BUTCHERY stands on the adjacent corner, with two large windows looking out onto the park and patio.

David continues on to a gravel driveway.

EXT. HARRIET'S HOUSE - DRIVEWAY AND PORCH

David pulls up to a Queen Anne-style house with a porch.

AUNT HARRIET appears in the front doorway with open arms. She is late-60s, willowy, and dressed in eccentric clothing.

Achilles hops out of the car to reveal that he is missing a limb.

AUNT HARRIET David, dear, it’s been too long.

Harriet pulls him in close with familiarity. David is stiff.

AUNT HARRIET My darling, always remember to give yourself the freedom to fail--

AUNT HARRIET & DAVID (reciting together) The freedom to feel. The freedom to have fun. The freedom to be free....

AUNT HARRIET And the freedom to fearlessly love.

David grimaces at the thought and steps away.

Achilles sniffs for attention and Aunt Harriet gushes over him, handing over a hidden treat from one of her many pockets. Aunt Harriet ushers them inside.

INT. HARRIET'S HOUSE - ENTRYWAY/LIVING ROOM

David leaves his bags in the entryway and follows Aunt Harriet into the living room.

It is warmly lit with a fainting couch and two loveseats. The walls are overflowing with oddities and pictures of David and their family.

AUNT HARRIET My turtledove, come in, sit.

David is noticeably uncomfortable and needs Achilles to prod him into the room.

DAVID I see that you got a new lamp.

David gestures to a statue-style floor lamp, which Harriet appraises with a delicate swipe over its silhouette.

AUNT HARRIET Ah, yes. My dear friend Edward procured it the last time he was in Bangladesh.

DAVID Edward from the Rotary Club?

AUNT HARRIET It's a shame he is too old for you. He's been randy lately, even going over to on the Pleasant Valley weekends, looking for a man. Perish the thought!

DAVID Indeed. How awful that must be... Pleasant Valley...

AUNT HARRIET Darling, I shared a dressing room with Burnett--I know when I'm being sassed.

David sits on the edge of one of the loveseats and Achilles curls up at his feet, watching Harriet for more treats.

DAVID So, how are things?

AUNT HARRIET Mein leibling, when have we ever discussed anything so proletarian?

DAVID I don't know, maybe since you sent me a vague letter in the mail about how you are dying.

AUNT HARRIET Dying? What ever gave you that notion?

David fumbles for her wax-sealed envelope stuck between the pages of his notebook.

DAVID When you say things like, "Come quick" and "this is the last time we'll see each other." What was I supposed to think? It's not like I can call you!

AUNT HARRIET Of course not, the government has always been monitoring the phone lines.

DAVID Are you saying that you are not deathly ill?

AUNT HARRIET Do I look deathly ill? Be honest.

DAVID There are some new wrinkles around your eyes.

AUNT HARRIET Laugh lines, dear, were you raised by plebeians?

DAVID Look, I just took off for an entire month to make sure you're alright. I'd like to know if I can go back home.

AUNT HARRIET The city is never a home, caro mio. The city is for lonely hearts and criminals who believe that they are the only people to ever experience ennui. Home is where you trust your neighbor with your life, your heart, and your house. Tell me, do you feel that kinship in the city?

DAVID What I feel doesn't really matter, since I want a simple answer to my question but you keep deflecting.

AUNT HARRIET I thought we were having a vibrant tête-à-tête. You must be explicit with these things, you know.

DAVID Did you write a fake death note to make me come out here?

AUNT HARRIET I would never, perish the thought! My letter wasn't a death note, as you so indelicately put it. I might never see you again, no matter how ill or healthy I may be. That's how the world works because the only universal truth is chaos. I do hope your grade school teachers covered this topic...?

DAVID If you're not actually dying, then Achilles and I will be heading back to our halfway house for lonely hearts and criminals.

AUNT HARRIET Don't be cheeky, it's terribly unfashionable for a man of your esteem and talents.

David makes to leave, but Harriet halts his movements.

AUNT HARRIET (CONT'D) Don’t mind me and my odd ways. I’m glad you’re here, I’ve missed you something awful. Perhaps you could stay, even though I’m nowhere near my deathbed?

DAVID You could’ve written that in your letter. I would’ve come.

AUNT HARRIET Would you?

They arrive at an impasse.

AUNT HARRIET (CONT'D) In any case, now that you’re here, I have just a few errands for you to run. Be a lamb?

Harriet unfolds and hands over a shopping list written with a fountain pen on parchment paper. David raises an eyebrow.

#a serial killer's guide to men and manslaughter #script #screenplay #netflix call me #hannigram #hannibal s4 #nbc hannibal #original work

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incorrigible-rapscallion · 5 years

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ACT I, Scene V (pt. 1):

In which David attends a blind date with a certain someone...

#hannibal #netflix call me #a serial killer's guide to men and manslaughter #screenplay #screenwriting #original script #original work #originalcharacter #lgbtqia representation #lgbtq characters #lgbt film #autistic characters #hannibalseason4 #hannibal s4 #hannigram

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incorrigible-rapscallion · 5 years

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ACT II, Scene VII (pt. 1):

In which David receives some much-needed context from an unlikely source...

#save hannibal #netflix call me #a serial killer's guide to men and manslaughter #hannigram #hannibal #nbc hannibal #hannibalseason4 #hannibal s4 #lgbtqia representation #lgbtq characters #lgbt film #autistic characters #original script #original work #originalcharacter #screenplay #screenwriting

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incorrigible-rapscallion · 5 years

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A SERIAL KILLER’S GUIDE TO MEN AND MANSLAUGHTER -- Script (pgs. 24-30)

[pgs 1-2; 3-7; 7-14; 14-23]

INT. HARRIET'S ENTRYWAY - LATE NIGHT

David, Achilles, and Harriet crowd together in the entryway, Harriet shucks off her opera coat with restless energy.

AUNT HARRIET That was certainly an evening. I haven't seen anyone so explosive and irate about a topic in quite some time. I admire that man's passion, but his tactics were more on par with schoolyard guerrilla warfare.

DAVID I think I'm going to turn in for the night, if you don't mind.

AUNT HARRIET Of course, bambino. Let me know if there is anything else you need.

David nods then shuffles up the stairs with Achilles. Harriet huffs and shakes her head with a small smile.

INT. GUEST BEDROOM - SAME TIME

The guest bedroom is styled like a Victorian farmhouse.

David collapses on the bed, fully clothed. Achilles whines, but David is already out cold.

MONTAGE: DREAMSCAPE #1

Images of David's interactions from the day's events replay on fast-forward in David's sleep. Each encounter is coupled with the observations that he jotted down in his notebook.

Thomas is the star of this dreamscape, as the meeting at the butchery begins at the same rapid pace as the other interactions, but slows down once it settles on the eye contact he made at the town hall.

A sequence of implausible scenarios involving Thomas in the act of killing someone are added to David's memory:

-Thomas stabbing Mr. Lancaster like a grotesque greeting at the butchery -Thomas slitting Lily's throat instead as he walks past her -Thomas immediately rushing David into a strangle-hold, both at the butchery and as they crossed paths at the town hall

All of the killings are concluded by a flirtatious wink.

END OF MONTAGE

INT. GUEST BEDROOM - LATE AFTERNOON

David wakes sharply in an uncomfortable position, still dressed in his clothes from yesterday.

Light streams in David's eyes from the bedroom window. Harriet is in the room, opening the curtains.

AUNT HARRIET I was about to get the smelling salts if you didn't wake up. Normally, I wouldn't mind a reasonable bout of lethargy, but you have dinner with a fine and distinguished gentleman in the next thirty minutes.

David tosses and turns until Achilles comes to his bedside. David grunts in response and Harriet leaves the room.

INT. HARRIET'S ENTRYWAY - LATE AFTERNOON

David stands impassively as Harriet gives him a "once over."

AUNT HARRIET You and I both know that this is the change you came here for.

DAVID I didn't want to talk about that last night and I definitely don't want to talk about that now.

AUNT HARRIET Then talk about it with your date.

INT. RESTAURANT ENTRANCE - EARLY EVENING

David and Achilles stand in front of a RESTAURANT HOST. The place is whimsically styled after an Italian chateau.

HOST You're here for the reservation under "Harriet Truelove," yes? We were expecting you. The other member of your party is already seated.

David peruses the RESTAURANT PATRONS until he sees Thomas.

Once again, the ambient noises and other people fade away as David's breathing escalates. Achilles then calms him down.

Thomas locks eyes with David and smiles in recognition.

HOST If you'll follow me, sir?

DAVID I'd rather seat myself, if you don't mind.

INT. RESTAURANT - TABLE FOR TWO - EVENING

Thomas stands as David and Achilles approach the cozy table setting.

Achilles sniffs at Thomas' outreached hand and allows to be petted. Immediately, Achilles becomes docile and rolls over on the restaurant floor for a belly rub.

David watches, horrified, and stops breathing. This prompts Achilles to leap back up in order to lick at David's hand.

Once satisfied, Achilles lays down at David's feet. David gapes at this behavior and sits down at the table.

Thomas hovers with a cheerful expression before sitting too.

THOMAS I must admit, I had hoped you would be the mysterious stranger that Ms. Truelove was so adamant about my meeting. I was honest when you came in my shop--I am a dyed-in-the-wool fan of your work.

DAVID I suppose you feel that my characters are nuanced and my killers all have realistic motivations.

THOMAS Yes, but I feel that that is only skimming the surface when appreciating your writing techniques.

DAVID I'm flattered that you've spent so much time analyzing...me.

THOMAS Interesting, because you don't sound as though you're flattered.

DAVID I have a difficult time socializing and making small talk.

THOMAS I'm well aware of your background with your advocacy projects for children and students with special needs. I know that you yourself experienced a discriminatory education growing up.

DAVID "Discriminatory" is one way of putting it. Some would say "illegal" by today's standards.

A WAITER comes to the table to deliver a wine sampler tray and a shared appetizer plate.

Thomas gestures for David to eat first, but David declines.

DAVID I'm fine with water for now.

THOMAS Fair enough. But the tenderloin will pair nicely with the red, if you change your mind.

DAVID I take it the tenderloin comes from your own butchery?

THOMAS You caught me. I was hoping to impress you by picking a restaurant that exclusively uses my choice cuts. I also hope you don't mind that I ordered ahead for us.

DAVID I doubt that I have any choice in the matter anyway.

THOMAS Please understand, that wasn't my intention. I simply wanted to demonstrate that I am just as proficient in my own area of expertise as you are.

David takes some food from the appetizer, but doesn't eat it. Thomas picks at his own selection, eating delicately.

They remain in silence until the Waiter comes back to remove their dishes and set down their entree plates.

THOMAS I apologize if I said something to upset you in any way. I feel a little out of my element tonight.

DAVID You mean that you are able to charm everyone that you take out on a date?

THOMAS I confess that I actually don't date very often. I simply meant that dinners and lively discussions are usually my forte. It's why I wanted to be a butcher in the first place--I wanted to understand the fine details that make up a memorable meal.

DAVID That's a...tasteful answer.

THOMAS And you said you couldn't make small talk!

DAVID I really can't. The opportunity presented itself, so....

They lapse into silence again. David still keeps a stoic expression, but Thomas grins anytime they lock eyes.

Both dinner and dessert pass by. The Waiter delivers the check to Thomas for him to look over.

THOMAS It looks all good to go. My compliments to the chef.

The Waiter nods and leaves with check, without payment.

David pauses with his credit card and wallet out.

DAVID I assumed I would be paying for my half...?

THOMAS Of course not. This meal was on the house. All of mine are, considering...

DAVID I can at least leave the tip. It was excellent service.

THOMAS It always is.

David trades out his card for cash, places it on the table, then stands ungracefully with Achilles. Thomas follows suit.

THOMAS Even though this was a less-than-ideal date, I want you to know that I truly enjoyed your company. Perhaps I could convince you to take another chance?

DAVID Perhaps. In the meantime, I have some business to take care of. But I'll be sure to let know.

THOMAS That's all I could hope for. I'll be waiting.

David nods stiffly and exits with Achilles at his heels.

DAVID (mumbling) Please don't.

EXT./INT. DAVID'S CAR - NIGHT - TRAVELING

David drives throughout the town of Pleasant Grove at night. Achilles sits in the passenger seat.

David white-knuckles the steering wheel and gear shift as neon store signs and street lamps pass over his troubled face.

MONTAGE: DREAMSCAPE #2

David, once again, replays images of day's events--this time featuring his blind date dinner.

Key images that David focuses on are:

-Thomas seated at their table, waiting for David to arrive -Achilles rolling on the floor with oddly docile behavior -Thomas with a cheerful expression -Thomas with a concerned expression -Thomas with a vacant expression -Thomas cutting into the meal's tenderloin with a steak knife

This segues into another sequence of implausible scenarios involving Thomas killing someone during their dinner:

-Thomas breaking Achilles' neck while the dog waits for a belly rub -Thomas grabbing the Waiter's pen and stabbing it in their neck -Thomas lunging across the table to, once again, strangle David

Like before, all of the killings are concluded with a flirtatious wink.

END OF MONTAGE

David has stopped breathing and Achilles licks at his hand on the gear shift. David then pets Achilles' head, almost aggressively, as he calms down.

David notices that the lights are on inside the PLEASANT GROVE POLICE STATION as he approaches it at an intersection.

David abruptly pulls into the parking lot.

DAVID (to Achilles) Let's do the fandango, buddy.

He exits the car with Achilles and single-mindedness.

#a serial killer's guide to men and manslaughter #netflix call me #hannigram #hannibal s4 #nbc hannibal #hannibal #script #screenplay #screenwriting #original work

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incorrigible-rapscallion · 5 years

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A Serial Killer’s Guide to Men and Manslaughter -- SCRIPT (pgs. 1-2)

INT. DAVID’S APARTMENT - DAY

DAVID TRUELOVE's hands are clasped together in his lap, leg shaking, fingers picking at cuticles. David is late-40s, bookishly handsome, and a person of color.

He is seated in a well-worn chair at a built-in desk with a wooden bookshelf. A shelf is dedicated to the many works of “David Truelove." There is a long-running adult series and another series dedicated to young readers.

David looks down at an open envelope with a broken wax seal. He then takes out a trusty pocket-sized notebook and scribbles the date, time, and the words:

Give yourself the freedom to fail. Give yourself the freedom to be free.

INT. KILL ROOM - DAY

THOMAS WRIGHT'S hands are open, ready to grab hold of a pull-up bar in his gym-like “Kill Room.” Thomas is mid-50s, distinguished, and of an intimidating height.

There are mirrors on three walls, the fourth displays an array of weapons from all over the world.

Thomas practices martial arts and repeats the same sequences until they are perfect.

INT. DAVID’S APARTMENT - SAME TIME

David's phone lights up with an unknown number, but his hand stops just short of answering.

David’s dog named ACHILLES, a mid-sized mutt, perks up at the ringtone. Achilles sits in a leather recliner and follows David’s movements with his eyes.

David gets up and paces around his apartment, tidying. There are framed pictures of David at charity events receiving honorary awards.

David pauses at one, a letter, and reads aloud the words to himself which are written in a child’s blocky handwriting:

DAVID "Thank you, Mr. Truelove for coming to my school. I didn’t know that you were in special ed too. I want to be just like you when I go to sixth grade. My name is Henry Bennett by the way.”

David's phone lights up again, this time with a Caller ID reading: “Manager from the Black Lagoon.” He makes a repetitive hand movement before answering.

DAVID (CONT’D) (on phone) Carol, hi. I’m glad you got my message.... Yeah, it’s my Aunt Harriet.... You know how she is, all I got was a letter sealed in wax and a single line reading, “Come quick, this will be the last time we’ll see one another.”

INTER-CUT BETWEEN DAVID/THOMAS

Thomas continues his martial arts routine, but a VICTIM appears suddenly and fights back with clumsy movements.

In a swift maneuver, Thomas strangles his victim then steps back calmly.

Thomas moves to one of the mirrors. There are hatch marks--over fifty--and he adds one more with a permanent marker.

Thomas fixes his hair in the mirror before unlocking an inconspicuous door to the rest of his elegantly furnished house. Thomas continues down a hall.

DAVID (CONT'D) ...I don’t know how long it’ll take, a month maybe?.... Just give me a month .... Radio silence, please.... Why wouldn't I be safe?.... No, this won't be like what happened last year.... Look, if you have an emergency, I’ll be in Pleasant Grove.

Thomas passes a room with an elaborate bookshelf. On it, is a familiar set of books by David Truelove. Off to the side is a framed picture of Thomas shaking hands with a CITY OFFICIAL and standing outside his butchery called, “The Wright Place.”

The picture is from of a newspaper clipping titled “The Pleasant Grove Gazette.”

#a serial killer's guide to men and manslaughter #i made this #netflix call me #help me make it happen #rise my fandom #hannigram #hannibal s4 #script #screenplay #wip

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incorrigible-rapscallion · 5 years

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ACT I, SCENE II (pt. 1)

#a serial killer's guide to men and manslaughter #netflix call me #originalcharacter #original work #original script #screenwriting #screenplay #nbc hannibal #hannibalseason4 #hannigram #hannibal #lgbtq characters #lgbt film #autistic characters

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incorrigible-rapscallion · 5 years

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A Serial Killer’s Guide to Men and Manslaughter--SCRIPT (pgs. 7-14)

[pgs 1-2; 3-7]

EXT. PARK - DAY - LATER

David pulls up in his car to the park. Achilles looks expectantly out the window then at David.

DAVID (to Achilles) Alright. We single-handedly faced Aunt Harriet and survived. I think we've earned a breather.

A group of TEENAGERS are sprawled out at the park gazebo. Once they see David and Achilles get out, they come bounding over with questions.

TEEN 1 Can I pet him?

DAVID Go right ahead, he's very friendly.

TEEN 2 He only has three legs, why's that?

DAVID He was born with only three legs.

TEEN 3 What's his name?

DAVID Achilles. Can you guess why I named him that?

TEEN 1 Oh, the Trojan War guy! He was invincible except for his Achilles Heel.

DAVID Someone has been doing their homework.

SHERIFF LIVINGSTON (O.S.) Sir, this isn't a dog park.

SHERIFF LIVINGSTON appears and the teens scamper off. Livingston is young, fresh-faced, and a woman of color with natural hair. She is dressed in civilian clothing, no gun, but with a badge on her belt.

DAVID My apologies, this is my service animal, but I left his vest in the car. I can show you his documents if you wish.

Sheriff Livingston looks skeptically at Achilles.

DAVID (CONT'D) If you're wondering about his capability as a service dog, he was raised and trained just like any other assistance animal, except he wasn't going to be selected due to his--let me just go get his papers--

SHERIFF LIVINGSTON Would you mind taking off your sunglasses?

DAVID Why?

SHERIFF LIVINGSTON I know every face in town, but not yours. I'd like to change that.

David removes his sunglasses slowly.

SHERIFF LIVINGSTON (CONT'D) Oh, you’re David, Harriet’s nephew. Where are my manners--I'm Hannah Livingston. You know, Harriet has pictures of you everywhere; she’s incredibly proud of your career.

David nods, still uncertain and nonverbal. The sound of his breathing progressively escalates as Livingston speaks:

SHERIFF LIVINGSTON (CONT'D) How do you possibly come up with all those mysteries? They say that everything has already been done before, but your books feel so original. Your killers are nuanced with realistic motivations. I've never met a homicidal manic myself, living out here in Pleasant Grove, so I’d love to pick your brain....

David stops breathing. Achilles rubs up against him urgently and licks his hand. Livingston notices this all too late.

SHERIFF LIVINGSTON (CONT'D) Maybe some other time.... Don’t worry about the paperwork. Have a good rest of your day.

David exhales once Sheriff Livingston walks away.

He fumbles for his notebook and scribbles the date, time, and the words: "Sheriff--hiding something important"

INT. SHOPS - DAY - LATER

MONTAGE: DAVID AND ACHILLES ON ERRANDS FOR HARRIET

They pick up packages at the Post Office, Achilles now proudly wearing his service vest.

The POSTAL CLERK is gruff and impatient. David walks away from the exchange while scribbling in his notebook the date, time, and the words: "PO Worker--recent widower."

They stand at the checkout in a quaint grocery store with a selection of produce. The GROCER is frazzled and David scribbles: "Grocer--skipped lunch break."

They stop by a florist shop and interact with the FLORIST OWNER, who is overly friendly. David scribbles: "Florist--rebounding from a breakup."

END OF MONTAGE

INT. THE WRIGHT PLACE BUTCHERY

The Wright Place Butchery is tastefully decorated with pastoral lighting and decor. There are chair arrangements intended for waiting customers.

David and Achilles stand behind MR. LANCASTER, a veal/mutton supplier. A college-aged clerk, LILY, works the register.

MR. LANCASTER ...and you mean to tell me that this shipment is wrong?

LILY I wouldn't say wrong, Mr. Lancaster. Just a little off.

MR. LANCASTER "Just a little off" means wrong.

LILY It's just that July is around the corner, and we need more space for beef and pork cuts--I'll be with you in a minute, sir!--since most families aren't usually looking for veal or mutton hot dogs to celebrate the holiday, you know?

MR. LANCASTER Young lady, you have told me absolutely nothing except that I am apparently wrong. Where is Mr. Wright?

LILY Mr. Wright just went to check on something in the deep freezer. He'll be back as soon as he can. Until then, why don't you take a seat so I can help the next customer in line.

Mr. Lancaster turns around to see David and Achilles. He doesn't take the proffered seat.

MR. LANCASTER This day just keeps getting better, doesn't it?

David and Achilles go to the counter, where Lily greets them.

LILY If you're looking to bring home the bacon, you've come to the Wright Place!

DAVID I'm here on behalf of Harriet Truelove. I'm picking up her weekly order of hamburger.

LILY Oh, I love Ms. Harriet! She always says the funniest stuff. I'll be right back with that order, Mr...?

DAVID David is fine.

Lily leaves. David pulls out his notebook and begins to write the date and time, until--

MR. LANCASTER A three-legged service dog. I oughta get one of those vests for my miniature pony. Or, better yet, get one for my ten-point buck mount.

DAVID Actually, miniature horses are considered an accepted service animal by the ADA, even though they are still recognized as an unorthodox choice due to their size and care. I cannot speak for taxidermy.

MR. LANCASTER I guess ol' Harriet is taking them even younger now?

DAVID Excuse me?

MR. LANCASTER Harriet. You're her latest--what does she like to call it?--"liaison?"

THOMAS WRIGHT (O.S.) Mr. Lancaster, finally.

Thomas enters with Lily. He wears a stylish tweed suit. Lily holds David's order, which is wrapped nicely like a present.

Thomas comes around in front of the counter and greets Mr. Lancaster with a warm handshake.

INTER-CUT BETWEEN LANCASTER/THOMAS & LILY/DAVID:

MR. LANCASTER I hear that you have some news for me? THOMAS Yes, I was trying to get a hold of you earlier, but I wasn't able to get through on your cell.

LILY Here you go, Mr. David. Awww, can I pet your dog? DAVID Go right ahead. He's very friendly.

Lily crouches down to scruff Achilles. Mr. Lancaster motions to her position as he speaks:

MR. LANCASTER This little lady informed me that you will not be needing my services this month. THOMAS I certainly hope not! But unfortunately I won't have the space to fit my usual stock of veal and mutton for the next few weeks, what with July coming up and all.

Lily overhears Mr. Lancaster, pauses to listen for Thomas' response, then shares a knowing look with David.

LILY I apologize if Mr. Lancaster said something rude to you. He always makes a scene every time he comes in. DAVID You handled him extraordinarily well. I hope that he gets his shipment with Mr. Wright fixed. LILY Oh that? No, he just likes to fuss--I think it's his only joy in life. He knows that we didn't need as much this month. Everything is good to go.

MR. LANCASTER I suppose that I will be able to handle the difference. I'm a bit short this season, which is lucky for you.

Thomas begins to usher Mr. Lancaster out the door. In the bustle, Mr. Lancaster bumps into David, causing him to drop his notebook.

Thomas picks it up before David can get a chance.

THOMAS No, allow me--

David and Thomas lock eyes as he hands over the notebook.

THOMAS (CONT'D) Mr. David Truelove. I'm a fan of your work.

David grips the notebook and jerks away.

LILY Oh, you're Mr. Truelove, the author! I should've known, Ms. Harriet has said a lot about you.

David pushes past Mr. Lancaster and leaves abruptly.

INT./EXT. DAVID'S CAR /PLEASANT GROVE (TRAVELING)

David continues across the street to where his car is parked.

Inside the car with Achilles, David exhales and scribbles the date, time, and the words: "Mr. Wright--serial killer"

David takes a moment before starting his car.

Once he backs on to the street, he looks out the passenger window to the The Wright Place.

Thomas stares intently through both the store and car windows to lock gazes once again with David.

David continues down the street and passes Sheriff Livingston again. He stays at a stop sign for too long, considering, but a car politely honks behind him.

He goes on to Harriet's house.

#a serial killer's guide to men and manslaughter #screenplay #screenwriting #script #hannigram #hannibal s4 #nbc hannibal #hannibal #netflix call me

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incorrigible-rapscallion · 5 years

Text

ACT III, Scene I (pt. 3)

In which David takes a stand and delivers a grand gesture of his own for a certain someone...

That’s a wrap, folks!

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incorrigible-rapscallion · 5 years

Text

ACT II, Scene VI (pt. 1):

In which David walks a fine line with a certain someone...

#save hannibal #hannigram #nbc hannibal #netflix call me #a serial killer's guide to men and manslaughter #hannibal #hannibal s4 #hannibalseason4 #lgbtqia representation #lgbtq characters #lgbt film #autistic characters #original script #original work #originalcharacter #screenplay #screenwriting

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incorrigible-rapscallion · 5 years

Text

A Serial Killer’s Guide to Men and Manslaughter--SCRIPT (pgs.

[pgs 1-2; 3-7; 7-14; 14-23; 24-30; 30-44]

EXT. PLEASANT VALLEY PD - NIGHT

It is pouring rain outside. David and Achilles stand under an awning from the police station looking at the flooding parking lot.

DAVID (to Achilles) If it's just a little rain, we'll be fine.

Thunder sounds in the distance.

DAVID (CONT'D) This is fine, we'll be fine.

Achilles whines.

INT./EXT. DAVID'S CAR/PLEASANT VALLEY - NIGHT (TRAVELING)

David is the only driver on the valley pass. His driving is scored by the sound of heavy rain and thunder.

The windshield wipers are at the highest setting and the defroster on the car barely works, so David has to wipe at the foggy windshield.

DAVID (like a jingle or mantra) This is fine, we'll be fine, this is fine, we'll be fine...

David passes a forest service road sign but continues on.

Suddenly, David encounters a landslide that has spilled onto the highway. David immediately slams on the breaks and throws an arm out to keep Achilles in his seat.

David puts on a coat from the backseat and gets out of the car to inspect the road.

The debris is thick and still flowing. David checks his phone but there is no cell service.

Resigned, David gets back in the car and backtracks to the forest service road.

INT./EXT. DAVID'S CAR/FOREST (TRAVELING)

David switches over to 4-wheel drive and continues through the forest. He turns on the radio for weather coverage, but the signal goes in and out.

DAVID This is fine, we're going to be fine.

Then the car gets stuck in the mud. David reverses, but the tires simply spin out.

David gets out again to inspect the situation with a flashlight, but doesn't like what he sees.

David returns to the car and shuts it off. He pulls out a map of the area and finds the route he has taken so far.

DAVID It looks like we're only half a mile from Pleasant Grove. We should just try to hoof it into town.

David gets back out with Achilles, the flashlight, the map, and his phone. He pins their location and switches over to a compass app.

After a few paces, David notices a residential fence.

DAVID See? We've already hit civilization.

Navigating the perimeter, David and Achilles make their way to onto a gravel driveway.

EXT. HOUSE IN THE FOREST - NIGHT

The house is upscale and has a 20s-style craftsman design and has a light on in the front porch entryway.

David folds up the map and puts the flashlight away as he approaches the door. Both he and Achilles shake the rain water off like twins. Their safety is short-lived.

Just before he can ring the doorbell, David is knocked out.

MONTAGE: DREAMSCAPE #3

INT. BUTCHERY COLD ROOM

David hears something squick and sloosh.

He wakes on a metal preparation table. He notices meat hanging all around him, uncarved and pretreated.

There is movement above David's line of sight. It is Thomas, and he is carving into David's chest.

David is paralyzed as Thomas lifts out David's still-beating heart. Thomas observes it like it is a work of art and presses a kiss to it.

When he comes away, his lips are bloody and he smiles lovingly in David's direction. Like all the dreams before, Thomas seals this one with a flirtatious wink.

END OF MONTAGE:

INT. THOMAS' HOUSE - LIBRARY - LATER

David wakes looking at a ceiling fan. The light is dim and flickers. David spots Achilles curled up, dry, and sleeping in front of a fireplace.

There is an elaborate bookshelf containing a wide selection of books, but David immediately recognizes a set of his own works on the shelf.

David lays stretched out on a bath towel atop a dark upholstered couch.

His coat and shoes are gone. His map, flashlight, and cell phone sit on a coffee table in front of him. The coffee table also has a glass of water and a plate with painkillers.

David sits up and disregards both of these offerings, but pockets his cell phone. His ears ring and he wobbles from the pain and disorientation.

David goes to the bookshelf to inspect a collection of photographs on the wall. The photos document:

-Thomas as a child at boarding school -Thomas receiving degrees in culinary arts and business communication -Thomas in front of his shop shaking hands with a city official

David surveys the rest of the room. He creeps towards the only door and opens it to listen for activity.

The lights are on in the hallway, but there is no one to be found.

Looking back at Achilles, David hesitates, but exits the room.

INT. THOMAS' HOUSE - HALLWAY (TRACKING)

David enters a hallway that leads to a foyer. David notices his coat and shoes in a mudroom at the front door.

David has a straight shot to escape, but he pauses again to listen for activity.

There are sounds coming from a kitchen on the opposite side of the house.

David measures each step as he makes his way to the front door. He keeps a hand softly tracing the wall for balance.

After a few paces, he feels an odd dip in the wall. Focusing on the discrepancy, David looks back and forth between his freedom at the front door and his curiosity over the wall.

The curiosity wins out and he pushes into the wall, which opens into a secret room.

INT. KILL ROOM

David enters the gym-like space. The lights are motion activated, so David shuts the hallway door behind him.

David surveys the room and walks closer to the racks of mixed weapons on the farthest wall. Intrigued, he reaches out to pick one up, but stops himself.

Then he spots the series of hatch marks written in permanent marker on the mirror. He quickly tallies them.

DAVID ...Forty-five, fifty, fifty-three... Shit.

David takes out his phone and snaps pictures of the weapons and a close-up of the hatch marks.

David quickly exits the way he came.

INT. THOMAS' HOUSE - LIBRARY - LATER

David enters and hastily advances towards Achilles, who is still asleep in front of the fire.

David prods Achilles awake but pauses, weighing his options.

DAVID (to Achilles) Let's do the fandango, bud. For real.

David leaves Achilles at the fire and stands determinedly at the bookshelf, facing away from the door.

David hears footsteps approach, but doesn't react.

THOMAS (O.S.) See something you like?

DAVID What would you do if I said yes?

David turns around to find Thomas dressed casually in a sweater and lounge pants holding a tray with tea and food.

THOMAS I would be terribly pleased with myself. Which would lead to an unwarranted boost to my ego.

Thomas steps closer to David but changes direction to set the tray down on the coffee table.

Thomas observes the unused water and painkillers then takes a seat in an armchair next to the fire. His face is lit halfway in the dark and light.

THOMAS (CONT'D) There is a time and place for self-love -- for what the French call amour propre -- but I find that it often gets in the way of what I truly want. DAVID It sounds as though you've been talking with Aunt Harriet too much.

THOMAS That may be, but it's only because she is a woman of singular tastes and I can thoroughly appreciate that in a conversation partner. What is it that you look for, David? In a conversation partner, I mean.

DAVID I look for what everyone looks for: a pair of ears and a pair of eyes. It's as simple as that. (gesturing to Achilles) Lucky for me, I take my conversation partner everywhere I go.

THOMAS That must make for many one-sided conversations, if that is the case. Perhaps I am not the only one suffering from a prolonged bout of amour propre. DAVID If you are to believe Aunt Harriet, then yes.

THOMAS And if I want to believe you?

DAVID ...also yes.

THOMAS Good. That puts us on equal footing. Which is something else that I seek in a partner. For conversations.

DAVID Likewise. Speaking of equal footing, are we going to address the elephant in the room?

THOMAS Which one?

DAVID How about the one where I blacked out and woke up in your living room.

THOMAS Library. The living room is upstairs.

DAVID I probably would've known that had I entered your home with my full faculties like a normal house guest.

Achilles lifts up drowsily at David's raised tone, but turns over on his back to sleep in a different position.

THOMAS How's your head? You really should take the ibuprofen.

DAVID My head is fine.

Thomas leans forward and uncovers the plates of food.

THOMAS I also prepared some oatmeal. I didn't know how you prefer to take it, so it has all the fixings.

DAVID I take it how I like my conversation partners: plain and straightforward.

THOMAS Interesting. I prefer the finer arts of wit and wordplay. I assumed you would feel the same...?

DAVID I do, when the situation arises.

THOMAS And has it? Arisen?

DAVID That has yet to be determined.

THOMAS Fair enough. You really should eat something though. I promise, nothing in this spread will render you unconscious. Again.

David slowly paces back to the couch, careful to not show his instability from the head injury.

DAVID So is there a straightforward reason for why I had to be rendered unconscious at all?

THOMAS I admit that I am a bit of a security enthusiast. I was alerted immediately when you stepped on my property, but I thought you were someone else.

DAVID Someone else with a dog that deserved to get knocked out at your front door?

THOMAS Sadly, the whole situation will only become more absurd if I try to explain every detail to you at the present time. Suffice it to say, I've always been honest with you. Just not as straightforward as I could be.

DAVID You do realize that raises more questions than answers.

THOMAS Of course. But I find that a healthy dose of mystery keeps a conversation stimulating.

DAVID If you can't tell me why you knocked me out, can you at least tell me how I got here?

THOMAS How do you think?

DAVID I don't know, I'm imagining myself as swooning and being carried like a damsel in distress.

THOMAS That would be an accurate description. You don't weigh all that much. Which is probably due to the fact that you refuse to eat.

In response, David reaches for a spoonful of oatmeal, but instead picks up a cup of tea. He doesn't drink it.

Thomas acknowledges this by picking up a cup of tea as well.

Together, they both sip simultaneously with locked eyes.

DAVID Loose leaf?

THOMAS Of course. If you hadn't already guessed, I'm a bit of a purist when it comes to my palate. And appetites.

DAVID Do you know why I'm here?

THOMAS I would hope that it is to find a stimulating conversation partner. But I know that that is not the case.

DAVID I just came from Pleasant Valley. I was at the police department all day. Researching their cold cases and missing persons reports.

THOMAS I assume you took that man from the town hall the other night at his word.

DAVID I did.

THOMAS And? What did you uncover?

DAVID A common denominator.

THOMAS Is that the amateur detective or the novelist speaking?

DAVID Does it matter? I still found an answer.

THOMAS And was the answer what you needed to hear or what you wanted to hear?

DAVID Does it matter?

THOMAS To me? Yes. Greatly.

DAVID The answer led me back to you, if that's what you're asking.

THOMAS Why would you tell me this if you found out such an answer?

DAVID I'm being plain and straightforward. I'm also curious to see what you do next with this information.

A car honks outside.

THOMAS Ah, that would be the cab I called when I heard you stumbling around in the hallway earlier. I think it would be best if you got home safe and sound, especially since you don't have a car for the time being.

INT. THOMAS' HOUSE - ENTRYWAY

David steps into his shoes next to Achilles at the front door. David straightens as Thomas enters the mud room.

He gets close in David's personal space and David stops breathing. But it is simply for Thomas to grab David's coat hanging up behind them.

Thomas holds it out for David to put on easily. David does, maintaining eye contact as long as possible.

EXT/INT. HOUSE IN THE FOREST/CAB - DAY

It is no longer raining, but the ground is wet.

Thomas holds the door open for David and Achilles as they enter the backseat of a classic yellow cab.

Thomas shuts the door and knocks on the passenger-side window. The CABBIE, middle-aged and friendly looking, rolls it down to talk.

CABBIE Heya, Mr. Wright. Whereabouts are these two fellas headin'?

THOMAS Harriet Truelove's place. At the end of the main drag.

Thomas passes a wad of cash through the window.

CABBIE Easy-peasy. Pleasure doing business with you.

Thomas locks eyes once again with David.

THOMAS Likewise. And you should expect a token of my appreciation by the end of the day.

The Cabbie drives away and David watches Thomas as they do.

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