In a world of isolation and grief, the unbreakable bond of family is the only solace.
Watch the original version of Babel
Prologue:
In the remote desert of Morocco, a gunshot echoes across the sand. It shatters the silence and detonates a chain of events that will link four families from different countries and cultures. A wealthy American couple on vacation, two young Moroccan boys, a Mexican nanny with two American children, and a rebellious Japanese teenager are all hurtling towards a shared destiny of isolation, fear, and displacement.
For the American couple, the gunshot marks a turning point in their idyllic holiday. Susan and Richard are tourists travelling through Morocco, exploring the vivid colours and treasures of the local markets. They had come to experience the exotic beauty of the country, but they could never have anticipated the nightmare that would ensue. As they return to their tour bus, the sound of gunfire erupts and ricochets through the air. In the chaos and confusion that ensues, Susan is shot and Richard must fight to save her life.
For the two Moroccan boys, the gunshot is also life-changing. They live in a small village in the mountains, where gun culture is a part of their upbringing. The boys have found a rifle lying unused in a nearby abandoned building and, in an attempt to fit in with the older boys, they start shooting. However, their aim is off and the bullet hits the tour bus. The village is rocked by the news and the boys’ father is arrested for the incident.
For the Mexican nanny, Amelia, the gunshot is simply a distant echo. She is too busy ferrying two American children across the border to Mexico, to attend her son’s wedding. Amelia is a kind, hard-working woman, who has dedicated her life to caring for the children of others. However, her crossing into Mexico becomes a trap, as she finds herself stranded with the two children and no way to get back to the US.
For the Japanese teenager, Chieko, the gunshot is a mere whisper. She is a rebellious and disenchanted youth, who seeks attention from her emotionally distant father. When she is rejected by him yet again, she seeks companionship in a local club, where she meets a deaf-mute boy. Despite language barriers, they connect and share a moment of intimacy.
As the four disparate stories unfold, the gunshot becomes a unifying force, linking their fates together. They must all face the challenges that isolation, fear, and displacement bring, and ultimately discover that it is family that provides the ultimate solace.
Chapter 1: The Shot
Susan and Richard had arrived in Morocco just a few days before the gunshot. They were pleased to be on vacation after a long stretch of stressful work. Susan was a successful lawyer in San Diego, while Richard was an executive in a tech firm. They had always dreamed of travelling to exotic destinations all over the world and were excited to explore the vibrant culture of Morocco.
On the day of the incident, they were part of a group of tourists on a day trip to the Atlas Mountains. The bus ride was long but serene, the orange glow of the sun setting over the horizon a beautiful sight to behold. The couple had spent the day discovering the wonders of the mountains, enjoying the rich, earthy scents of spices, the vivid colours of the souks, and the friendly smiles of the locals.
As the day drew to a close, they returned to their bus. Suddenly, the sound of a gunshot pierced the air, and chaos erupted. Screams and shouts filled the air, and in the confusion, Susan was hit by a bullet. Richard’s world turned upside down in an instant. He could feel his heart race and the cold sweat pouring down his face. He had promised to keep Susan safe and now he was failing her.
The bus driver frantically pulled away from the scene, leaving them stranded in unfamiliar terrain. Richard cradled Susan in his arms, desperately searching for any sign of help. He was confused by the hustle and bustle of the crowd that had congregated around them. Susan’s cries of pain and the sight of her clutching her bleeding wound made him feel vulnerable.
As the minutes stretched into hours, Richard realized that he was completely isolated and alone. The locals, unable to communicate with him, had distanced themselves from the American couple. They had become strangers in a foreign land, with no means of communicating with the locals or seeking medical attention.
As the night drew on, Susan’s condition worsened. Richard heard her moaning in pain, and the sound sent shivers down his spine. He knew that he had to get her to a hospital, but they were miles away from the nearest town. The gunshot had set off a chain of events that would test Richard and Susan’s relationship to the breaking point. They were strangers in a strange land, facing isolation, fear, and displacement.
As Richard held Susan tightly, feeling her body shake with pain, he realized that he would do anything to keep her alive. The gunshot had marked a turning point in their vacation, propelling them into a nightmare that would change their lives forever. The couple would discover that it was their love for each other that would ultimately provide the solace they needed to survive the hardships they were about to face.
Chapter 2: The Boys
In the Moroccan desert, the sound of a gunshot shatters the tranquility of the night. Two young boys, Ahmed and Yussef, have found a rifle belonging to their father and are now playing with it. They clearly have no idea how to handle a gun. In their attempts to figure it out, the gun goes off, and the bullet hits the tour bus that is passing by.
The next morning, the bus arrives at its destination, and the passengers disembark, but one does not; Susan, an American woman, has been shot in the neck. Her husband, Richard, is beside himself with worry. He is desperate to get his wife medical attention, but the language barrier proves to be a significant hurdle. He pleads with the locals to help him, to no avail.
Meanwhile, Ahmed and Yussef are consumed with guilt. They know they have done something terrible, and they are afraid of the consequences. Their father, Hassan, a goat herder, is away with his flock. However, when he returns, he realizes that something is wrong. The police are already at his door, questioning him about the gun. They search the house, and when they find the rifle, Ahmed and Yussef realize they are now in deep trouble.
The police take the boys away for questioning. Hassan is distraught, as he knows the punishment for this kind of crime is severe. He tries to protest their innocence, but it is clear the police do not believe him.
Meanwhile, Richard manages to get his wife to a hospital, but they are in a remote area, and the medical facilities are not sufficient. Susan’s condition deteriorates, and Richard’s desperation grows. He contacts the US embassy, but they are not much help. They advise him to get Susan to a more advanced hospital, but they cannot provide him with any transportation, and he has no idea how to get there himself.
As the days go by, the situation becomes even more dire. Susan’s health continues to decline, and Richard becomes increasingly desperate. He is running out of options, and he begins to feel like he has run out of luck.
Back in the village, the police continue to interrogate the boys. They are subjected to harsh treatment and threats. Ahmed tries to take the blame, saying it was all his fault, but the police are not interested in the truth. They want someone to punish, and the boys are the easiest targets.
Yussef’s mother, Zohra, is devastated. Her son has always been a good boy, and she cannot believe he is in this situation. She is also concerned about her older son, Said, who is away in the city. She fears that he will be implicated in the crime as well.
As the investigation intensifies, tensions rise within the village. The guilt and shame consume the boys and their family. They struggle to come to terms with what has happened and how their lives have been irreversibly changed.
As this chapter comes to an end, Richard and Susan’s situation remains precarious, and Ahmed and Yussef’s future is uncertain. The only thing that is certain is that their lives are now inexorably linked.
Chapter 3: The Nanny
Alma was a hardworking Mexican nanny who had been taking care of the two American children, Debbie and Mike, for years. They were like family to her, and when her son’s wedding came up in Mexico, she knew she wanted to take them with her.
The journey was long and tiring, but they finally made it to the small Mexican village where the wedding was being held. Alma was excited to introduce her “hijos” to her family and culture.
The wedding was beautiful, with bright colors and delicious food. Debbie and Mike were having a blast, but Alma noticed the bride’s father giving them dirty looks. She tried to ignore it and enjoy the celebration.
However, when they tried to leave the village the next day, they encountered an unexpected problem. The border patrol wouldn’t let them cross back into the US because they didn’t have the proper paperwork for the children.
Alma frantically tried to call her employer, Susan, back in San Diego, but couldn’t get through. She was stuck in Mexico with two American children, and no way to get them back home.
As the days passed, Alma became more and more desperate. She had no money and no way to provide for the children. They were running out of food and water, and Debbie had started to cry herself to sleep every night.
Alma tried to stay strong for the children, but the situation was taking a toll on her. She had left her own family behind in San Diego, and now she was stuck in a foreign place with no help in sight.
One day, she heard about a man who might be able to help them cross the border. He was known as a “coyote,” someone who could smuggle people across. Alma was hesitant, but she had no other choice.
She met with the coyote and arranged a plan. They would leave the village at night and be taken to a remote location where they would meet another coyote who would smuggle them across the border.
It was a dangerous plan, and Alma was terrified. But she had to do whatever it took to get the children back home.
That night, they left the village and began their journey to the border. They walked for hours through the desert, with nothing but the stars to guide them. They were exhausted and scared, but they kept going.
Finally, they reached the remote location where they were supposed to meet the second coyote. But he never showed up. They were stranded in the desert with no help in sight.
Alma was devastated. She had risked everything to try to get the children home, and now they were stuck in the middle of nowhere. Debbie was crying again, and Mike was starting to lose hope.
But then, in the distance, they saw headlights. It was a US border patrol car. They had been rescued. Alma was overcome with relief and gratitude.
They were taken back to San Diego, where Susan was waiting for them. She hugged Alma and the children tightly, grateful to have them back safe and sound.
Alma was exhausted but relieved. She had been through a harrowing experience, but she learned that family could overcome any obstacle. She would never forget the journey she took with Debbie and Mike, and the love that brought them all back home.
Chapter 4: The Father
Chieko sat in her room, staring at the phone. She knew she shouldn’t call her father again, but she couldn’t help herself. She dialed the number and waited anxiously as it rang.
“Hello?” her father’s voice answered.
“Dad, it’s me,” Chieko said, feeling her heart race in her chest.
“What do you want?” her father replied coldly.
Chieko felt a wave of hurt and sadness wash over her. She knew her father was busy with work, but she just wanted a moment of his time.
“I just wanted to talk,” she said softly.
“I don’t have time for this,” her father said before hanging up the phone.
Chieko sat there, tears streaming down her face. She felt so alone and rejected. She knew she had to get out of the house, but she didn’t know where to go.
She grabbed her skateboard and made her way out to the streets of Tokyo. She rode around aimlessly, feeling the wind in her hair and the freedom of the open road. As she skated, she couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing.
Her thoughts were interrupted when she saw a group of teenagers hanging out outside of a club. She had heard about this place before, but she had never been brave enough to go inside.
Chieko took a deep breath and approached the group. They eyed her warily, but she could tell they were intrigued by her presence. She introduced herself and asked if she could come inside with them.
They shrugged and opened the door. As she stepped inside, she felt the music vibrating through her body. The club was dimly lit, with neon lights flashing around the dance floor. She watched as people danced and swayed to the music, losing themselves in the rhythm.
Chieko felt a wave of excitement rush over her. She had never felt so alive. She made her way to the bar and ordered a drink. She sat there, taking in the scene around her, feeling as if she was part of something bigger.
As the night went on, Chieko found herself drawn to a boy in the corner. He was sitting alone, watching the crowd. He had a calmness about him that she found intriguing. She made her way over to him and introduced herself.
He was deaf-mute, but he communicated with her through sign language. Chieko had never met anyone like him before. He seemed to understand her in a way that no one else did. They spent the night talking and laughing, feeling as if they had found a kindred spirit in each other.
As the sun began to rise, Chieko realized that she had found what she had been looking for. She had found a place where she could be herself, and she had found someone who understood her. She knew that she had a long road ahead of her, but for the first time in a long time, she felt hopeful.
As she left the club, she felt a sense of purpose. She knew that she would face challenges in her life, but she also knew that she had the strength to overcome them. She rode her skateboard through the empty streets of Tokyo, feeling the warmth of the rising sun on her face, and she knew that her future was full of endless possibilities.
Chapter 5: The Hospital
The American couple, Richard and Susan, continue to face their tragedy after Susan was accidentally shot in Morocco. They find themselves in a rural hospital, where the medical resources are limited, and the cultural and language barriers are overwhelming.
Richard feared for Susan’s life as they were transported to the hospital. The ambulance ride was bumpy and uncomfortable, and the constant jolting made it impossible for Susan’s pain to subside. Richard tried to comfort her, murmuring words of encouragement as the ambulance bounced along the dirt road.
Upon arrival, the hospital staff immediately ushered Susan into the emergency room. Richard watched in horror as the medical personnel worked frantically over her. The lack of proper equipment and supplies was evident, and Richard began to fear the worst.
The language barrier proved challenging, as the medical personnel were not proficient in English. Richard attempted to explain the situation, but he was met with blank stares. Despite their efforts, Susan’s condition did not improve. As hours turned into days, Richard’s despair grew. He felt isolated and powerless in a foreign country where he did not understand the culture or the language.
Richard’s attempts to communicate with the hospital staff were often met with hostility. The staff seemed to blame him for Susan’s condition, as he was a foreigner in a country scarred by terrorism and chaos. They were wary of him and viewed him as an outsider.
Richard’s frustration reached a boiling point when the hospital staff refused to give Susan the pain medication she desperately needed. They claimed they were out of stock, yet Richard could see that the staff was using the medication for other patients. He was outraged, and he confronted the doctors, but they dismissed him with a curt wave of their hand.
Days turned into weeks, and Susan’s condition remained unchanged. Richard was a broken man, consumed with grief and anxiety. He wondered how he would ever make it back to the United States with Susan in her current state. The thought of losing her was unbearable.
In the hospital, Richard found himself at odds with the Moroccan culture. He was not accustomed to the strict gender roles and the conservative dress codes. He felt out of place, and he longed for the familiarity of his home country.
One day, while sitting in the hospital waiting room, Richard met a Moroccan man named Yusuf. Yusuf spoke fluent English and offered to help Richard navigate the cultural and linguistic barriers. Richard was hesitant at first, but he soon realized that Yusuf’s help was invaluable.
Yusuf took Richard to a local market where he was able to purchase medicines and other necessary items. He also arranged for a translator, who was able to help Richard communicate with the hospital staff.
With Yusuf’s help, Richard began to understand the Moroccan culture, and he felt less isolated and alone. He also began to witness the kindness and generosity of the Moroccan people. They were willing to help, despite the language barrier and the cultural differences.
As time went on, Susan’s condition improved, and Richard was overjoyed. He was grateful for the kindness of the Moroccan people, and he knew that he could not have done it alone. He realized that, despite their differences, people could come together in times of crisis and offer solace and comfort to one another.
One day, Richard was able to return to the United States, bringing Susan with him. He was grateful for the medical care she received but was relieved to be home. Susan’s recovery was slow, but with the help of Richard and their family, she eventually recovered.
The incident in Morocco had changed Richard and Susan’s lives forever. They realized the importance of family and the fragility of life. They had experienced tragedy, but they had also witnessed the kindness of strangers and the power of human connection. They knew that they would never forget the people they met in Morocco, and they would forever be grateful for the lessons they learned.
CHAPTER 6: THE BUS
The boys’ family and their village were at the center of the investigation into the tourist bus shooting. The guilt and shame consumed them as they tried to come to terms with what happened and the consequences of their actions. The police searched their village and interrogated them, but the parents didn’t reveal anything. The boys were terrified, thinking they would spend the rest of their lives in prison.
The father knew they couldn’t keep the secret forever, and he encouraged his wife to come forward and tell the truth. She was hesitant, knowing that they would face severe punishment for their mistake. But with the weight of guilt and fear bearing down on them, she finally relented and told the police everything.
The repercussions of their actions were severe. The father was arrested and taken away, leaving the mother and their children to face the shame and judgment of the village. The family was ostracized, and the boys were bullied and taunted by the other children. The mother had to withdraw the boys from school for their safety, and they were forced to stay at home.
Meanwhile, the investigation continued as the police searched for the gun used in the shooting. They questioned the boys’ uncle, who had borrowed the gun for hunting. The uncle was angry and felt betrayed by his brother for implicating him in the crime. He was also terrified of being arrested and sentenced to prison.
The mother struggled with her guilt and the isolation of their family. She felt responsible for what happened and wished she could undo it all. The shame and judgment of her community weighed heavily on her, and she couldn’t escape the stares and whispers of the villagers.
As the days passed, the tension within the family grew. The father was still in jail, and they didn’t know how long he would be there. The mother was struggling to provide for the family and keep the boys safe. She tried to shield them from the negative attention but knew that it was only a matter of time before they would have to face the consequences of their actions.
The boys were scared and traumatized by the events that had transpired. They had never seen their father in jail before, and they didn’t understand why the villagers were treating them so differently. They missed their friends, school, and the freedom to play outside.
One day, the police came to the village with a search warrant. They were looking for the gun that had been used in the shooting, and they were determined to find it. The family knew they had to cooperate, but they were terrified of the repercussions. The tension was palpable as the police searched the house and the surrounding areas.
Finally, they found the gun buried in the backyard. The family’s worst fears had been realized, and they knew that they could no longer hide the truth. The mother was devastated, knowing the consequences of this discovery would be severe.
The police arrested the mother and the boys for their involvement in the crime, despite the father taking full responsibility. The villagers were shocked and disgusted by their actions, and they were forced to leave the village in shame.
As they left, the boys saw their father in jail and cried out to him, but he could only look at them with sadness and regret. They knew their lives would never be the same again and that the consequences of their actions would follow them for the rest of their lives.
As the bus that carried them away disappeared into the distance, the family was left with a sense of isolation and grief. They had lost everything, and they didn’t know where they would go or what they would do. The only solace they had was each other, and they held onto that as they faced an uncertain future.
Chapter 7: The Wedding
Amelia clutched the hands of the two children as they walked towards the wedding venue. The excitement in her heart was palpable, but she was also nervous. Would the children fit in with the Mexican culture? Would they enjoy themselves? Would they feel out of place? Amelia tried to push these thoughts aside and focus on the festivities.
The sights and sounds of the wedding venue were overwhelming. The air was thick with the scent of marigold flowers and the sounds of traditional Mariachi music. Amelia and the children were greeted warmly by the groom’s family, and soon they were seated at a table with other guests.
As the night wore on, the children played with the other kids, chasing each other around the dance floor and giggling. Amelia watched them with a sense of relief. They seemed to be enjoying themselves, and she felt grateful that they were having this experience.
As the night progressed, Amelia noticed that the father of the bride was giving her and the children sideways glances. She couldn’t quite place his expression, but it made her uneasy. She tried to ignore it and enjoy the moment.
But as the party was winding down, the father of the bride approached their table. His expression was hostile, and Amelia could feel her heart start to race.
“What are you doing here?” he spat at her. “You and these gringo kids don’t belong here. You’re ruining my daughter’s wedding.”
Amelia was speechless. She had never encountered such blatant hostility before, and she didn’t know how to respond.
Before she could say anything, the father of the bride turned to the crowd.
“Everyone, listen up!” he called out. “We have some unwanted guests here. They don’t belong here, and they need to leave.”
Amelia could feel the eyes of the guests turning towards her. She felt exposed and vulnerable.
“We didn’t mean to cause any trouble,” she stammered. “We’ll leave right away.”
She gathered the children and started to make her way towards the exit. But as she was passing by the bar, a group of men grabbed her. She struggled and fought, but it was no use. They dragged her and the children outside and threw them onto the sidewalk.
Amelia felt dazed and confused. How had this wonderful night turned into a nightmare? She tried to gather the children and find a way back to their hotel, but it was no use. They were lost and alone in a foreign country.
As the night wore on, Amelia and the children huddled together for warmth on a park bench. They were scared, hungry, and exhausted. Amelia couldn’t stop replaying the events of the night in her head. What had gone wrong? How had she misjudged the situation so badly?
Eventually, they were able to find their way back to their hotel. It was a small victory, but it was still a long way from home. For Amelia, it was a sobering reminder of how easily things could spiral out of control.
Chapter 8: The Club
Chieko sat at the bar of the club, sulking in her loneliness. She had run away from home in search of companionship, but the loud music and crowded room only intensified her feelings of isolation. She took a sip of her drink and looked around, noticing the many patrons chatting and laughing with their friends.
Suddenly, a deaf-mute boy caught her attention. He approached her with a smile and a sign language introduction. Chieko was annoyed at first, thinking that he was only talking to her out of pity. But as she watched him communicate with the bartender, she became more curious about him.
The boy, whose name was Kenji, used a notepad to converse with Chieko. She found it frustrating at first, having to write out her responses instead of speaking them. But as they continued to talk, she found herself opening up to him in a way she never had before.
They shared stories about their families and struggles, and Chieko was surprised to find that Kenji understood her pain better than anyone she had ever met. She felt a sense of comfort in his company, like she was finally understood.
As the night wore on, the club grew more crowded and the music became louder. Kenji wrote something on his notepad and showed it to Chieko. “Do you want to dance?” it read.
Chieko hesitated at first, feeling shy and self-conscious. But Kenji took her hand and pulled her onto the dance floor. They moved together to the beat of the music, their bodies swaying in sync. Chieko felt a rush of adrenaline, like she was living in the moment.
As they danced, Chieko noticed the other patrons staring at them. They were a curious sight, a deaf-mute boy and a rebellious teenage girl. But Chieko didn’t care. She felt a sense of freedom, like she could be herself without fear of judgment.
As the night came to a close, Chieko and Kenji exchanged numbers and said their goodbyes. Chieko left the club feeling different than when she had arrived. She no longer felt alone or misunderstood. She had found a connection with someone, even if it was only for one night.
Days later, Chieko received a text from Kenji. It read, “I had a good time with you. Let’s meet again soon.” Chieko smiled, feeling a sense of hope for the future. She had found someone who understood her, and she knew that they could face whatever challenges came their way together.
As she walked back to her home, Chieko realized that her father’s rejection had led her to this moment. She had rebelled against his strict expectations and found a sense of freedom in the club. And in Kenji, she had found something even more valuable: a kindred spirit who saw her for who she truly was.
Chapter 9: The Destiny
The four families’ stories had collided, and they now found themselves in the same place. They were at a small, isolated village in the Moroccan desert, where the American couple had been taken after the shooting.
The nanny and the American children had managed to cross the border back into the US, but they were still shaken by their ordeal. The boys’ family was still facing the repercussions of their actions, and the teenage rebel, Chieko, had returned home to Tokyo with a newfound sense of understanding.
As they all sat together, they shared their stories, their pain, and their hope. They had all been through so much, and yet they found comfort in each other’s company.
The American couple had made a full recovery, and they were grateful to be alive. They had gained a new perspective on life, realizing that it was fleeting and fragile. The husband had also learned that cultural differences could be overcome with communication and understanding.
The boys’ family had faced their demons and had accepted responsibility for their actions. They had learned that honesty was the only way to move forward, and they were working towards making amends for their mistake.
The nanny and the children had also learned valuable lessons about trust and perseverance. They had been stranded in a foreign country, but they had found kindness and compassion in unexpected places.
Chieko had returned home with a newfound sense of acceptance. She had realized that her father’s emotional distance was not a reflection of her worth, and that she could find love and companionship in unexpected places.
As they all sat together, they realized that they had all been struggling with isolation and grief. But they had also found solace in family, whether it was blood-related or not. They had come from different countries and cultures, but they had all been united by their humanity.
The American couple invited the other families to join them on their trip to Marrakesh, and they all agreed. As they journeyed through the beautiful landscapes and vibrant markets, they laughed and talked like old friends.
In Marrakesh, they all found something that they had been searching for: hope. They had all been through so much, but they had also found something valuable in their struggles. They had learned that family, in whatever form, could provide a sense of belonging and comfort.
The four families said their goodbyes, promising to stay in touch. As they parted ways, they knew that they would always carry the memories of their shared destiny with them.
The American couple returned home, grateful for their second chance at life. The boys’ family had made peace with their community, and the nanny and the children had reunited with their family.
Chieko had returned to school, but she had also started volunteering at a club for deaf-mute teenagers. She had found a sense of purpose in helping others, and she knew that her experience had given her a newfound understanding and empathy.
As for the four families’ shared destiny, it had changed the course of their lives. They had all been struggling with isolation and grief, but they had found solace in each other. They had been hurtling towards a shared destiny of sorrow, but they had found hope in the unlikeliest of places. They had learned that family was ultimately what provided solace.
Some scenes from the movie Babel written by A.I.
Scene 2
FADE IN:
EXT. MOROCCAN DESERT – DAY
The camera pans across the barren desert landscape until it reaches a small village. Children are playing soccer with a makeshift ball as the adults sit and chat.
CUT TO:
INT. BOYS’ HOUSE – DAY
We see AHMED, 12, and YUSSEF, 10, playing with a rifle they found while herding sheep. They aim the rifle at various objects until Ahmed suggests they shoot at a bus in the distance.
Yussef hesitates, but Ahmed convinces him that they won’t hit anything. As they aim and shoot, the bus suddenly stops, and people pour out, screaming in terror.
CUT TO:
EXT. MOROCCAN VILLAGE – DAY
As the police arrive, chaos ensues. The villagers try to protect Ahmed and Yussef, but the police use excessive force to round up everyone for questioning.
CUT TO:
INT. POLICE STATION – DAY
Ahmed and Yussef are separated from their families and interrogated by the police. They are frightened and confused, not understanding the severity of what they have done.
CUT TO:
EXT. DESERT – DAY
The police search the surrounding desert for the rifle but come up empty-handed. As they pack up to leave, one of the officers notices something glinting in the distance.
CUT TO:
EXT. BUS – DAY
The camera zooms in on the bullet hole in the bus window, revealing the bloody aftermath of the shooting.
FADE OUT.
Scene 3
INT. A SHADY STREET IN TIJUANA – DAY
We see a young Mexican nanny, AMANDA (28), with two American children, RICHARD (8) and SUSAN (6), walking down a crowded street in the bustling border town of Tijuana. Amanda is nervous and tries to keep the children calm.
AMANDA
(speaking in Spanish to the children)
We’ll be back home soon, don’t worry.
As they approach the border crossing, they see a long line of cars and people waiting to cross.
RICHARD
(pointing at the line)
How are we going to get through all that, Amanda?
AMANDA
(flustered)
Don’t worry, we’ll find a way.
Suddenly, a man approaches them. He’s well-dressed and polished, with a charming smile.
MAN
(English)
Excuse me, miss. Do you need help crossing the border?
Amanda hesitates, but the man seems sincere.
AMANDA
(English)
Yes, please.
The man leads them to a nearby alley and hands Amanda a backpack.
MAN
(English)
This will help you get through more easily. Just follow my instructions.
Amanda looks nervously at the backpack. She knows crossing the border illegally is dangerous, but fear of being stranded in Mexico with two children makes her desperate.
CUT TO:
INT. A CROWDED BUS IN TIJUANA – DAY
Amanda and the children are crammed into a bus, along with other people who are also trying to cross the border. They’re all nervous and anxious. Suddenly, the bus comes to a stop.
DRIVER
(speaking Spanish)
We have to wait. Border patrol is checking cars ahead of us.
The passengers grumble and groan. Amanda checks her watch. They don’t have much time before the children’s parents come back from their trip.
Suddenly, the bus driver gets up and tells everyone to get off the bus. Confused and scared, Amanda follows the other passengers.
CUT TO:
EXT. A DINGY BACK ALLEY IN TIJUANA – DAY
Amanda and the children are led down a dark alley by the man. She tries to calm the children, but they’re scared and upset.
SUSAN
(crying)
Where are we going, Amanda?
AMANDA
(hushed)
We’re almost there, just a little bit longer.
They turn a corner and are confronted by a group of border patrol agents. The man quickly hands Amanda the backpack and disappears.
BORDER AGENT
(speaking in Spanish)
What do you have there?
Amanda opens the backpack and reveals several packages of drugs.
AMANDA
(sobbing)
I didn’t know. He said it was just a backpack.
The agents handcuff Amanda and take her and the children away.
CUT TO:
INT. A JAIL CELL IN TIJUANA – DAY
Amanda is sitting in a cell with other women, looking defeated. Richard and Susan are sitting on a bench nearby, crying.
AMANDA
(to the children)
I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean for this to happen.
SUSAN
(sniffling)
Will we ever see Mommy and Daddy again?
Amanda tries to reassure them, but she’s scared and unsure herself.
Suddenly, the jail door opens and a woman enters. It’s the children’s mother, SARAH (32), looking distraught and tearful.
SARAH
(hugging her children)
Thank God you’re okay.
Amanda looks up, grateful to see the children’s parents.
AMANDA
(tearfully)
I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to bring them into danger.
SARAH
(hugging Amanda)
It’s okay. We’ll figure this out.
As the four of them embrace, we see outside the jail cell, Sarah’s husband, RICH (35) looking on, relieved to have his family back together.
FADE TO BLACK.
Scene 4
Genre: Drama, Thriller
Setting: Tokyo
Characters:
– Chieko, a rebellious teenage girl seeking attention from her emotionally distant father
– Mr. Yasujiro, Chieko’s father, a successful businessman with a dark secret
– Miyuki, Chieko’s deaf-mute friend from the club
– Detective Nakagawa, a determined detective investigating Mr. Yasujiro’s involvement in a financial scandal
Scene 4: The Club
INT. CLUB – NIGHT
Chieko stands alone in the crowded club, wearing a revealing dress and smoking a cigarette. She watches as people dance and drink, feeling lost and disconnected. Suddenly, she notices a boy sitting alone at a table, staring at her intently. She approaches him, intrigued.
CHIEKO
(in Japanese, subtitled)
Can you hear me?
The boy looks at her and shakes his head, pointing to his ears and mouth.
CHIEKO
(smiling)
I guess we’ll have to use our hands.
Miyuki smiles back and they begin to communicate through sign language. As they talk, Chieko begins to open up about her life and her strained relationship with her father.
CHIEKO
(subtitled)
He’s always working. He doesn’t have time for me. I just want him to notice me, to care about me.
Miyuki offers her sympathy and they continue to talk for hours, building a connection through their shared isolation.
CUT TO:
INT. YASUJIRO’S OFFICE
Mr. Yasujiro sits in his lavish office, surrounded by screens and technology. He looks nervous as he watches the news reports about his involvement in a financial scandal.
CUT TO:
INT. CLUB – LATER
Detective Nakagawa enters the club, looking for Mr. Yasujiro. As he scans the crowd, he notices Chieko and Miyuki talking intently. He approaches them, sensing that they might know something.
DETECTIVE NAKAGAWA
(in Japanese, subtitled)
Excuse me, do you know Mr. Yasujiro? I need to speak with him.
Chieko and Miyuki look at each other, unsure of what to do.
CUT TO:
INT. YASUJIRO’S OFFICE – LATER
Mr. Yasujiro watches as Detective Nakagawa is interviewed on the news, discussing his investigation into the financial scandal. He panics, realizing that his involvement might be exposed.
CUT TO:
INT. CLUB – LATER
Chieko and Miyuki watch as Mr. Yasujiro enters the club, looking anxious. They notice Detective Nakagawa following him, ready to confront him about his shady dealings.
CHIEKO
(subtitled)
We have to warn him.
Miyuki nods and they rush over to Mr. Yasujiro, trying to get his attention. But it’s too late – Detective Nakagawa has already caught up to him and the confrontation begins.
The tension builds as the detective presents evidence of Yasujiro’s wrongdoing, and Chieko and Miyuki watch in horror as their new friend’s life falls apart before their eyes.
FADE OUT.
Scene 5
INT. RURAL MOROCCAN HOSPITAL – DAY
An exhausted American husband, RICHARD, paces the hospital hallway. His wife, SUSAN, lies unconscious in a hospital bed in the next room. Medical staff rush around, speaking in rapid Arabic.
Richard stops a passing doctor.
RICHARD
Excuse me, doctor, can you tell me how my wife is doing?
DOCTOR
(shaking his head)
I’m afraid we don’t have the resources to properly treat her injuries. We’ve stabilized her, but she needs surgery.
Richard’s face falls. He glances into the room at Susan’s motionless body.
DOCTOR (CONT’D)
You’ll have to transfer her to a bigger hospital in Marrakech, but you’ll need to pay cash upfront.
Richard’s eyes widen in panic.
RICHARD
How much?
DOCTOR
Ten thousand dollars.
Richard runs his hands through his hair, feeling defeated.
RICHARD
I don’t have that kind of money on me.
DOCTOR
Then I’m sorry, there’s nothing more we can do.
Richard slumps onto a nearby bench, his face buried in his hands.
FADE TO BLACK.
Scene 6
Characters:
1. John – American tourist
2. Susan – John’s wife
3. Yussef – young Moroccan boy
4. Ahmed – Yussef’s brother
5. Anwar – Yussef’s father
6. Hamid – Yussef’s uncle
7. Sheriff – Moroccan police officer
8. Farid – Yussef’s cousin
Setting:
A small Moroccan village, early morning. The streets are deserted, except for a few locals going about their daily business. In the background, the call to prayer can be heard.
Dialogue:
Yussef: “I didn’t mean to do it, Ahmed. I thought the gun wasn’t loaded.”
Ahmed: “It’s alright, Yussef. We just need to tell dad, and he’ll know what to do.”
Yussef: “But what about the tourists? What if they die?”
Ahmed: “We’ll never know, so we shouldn’t worry. Come on, let’s go home.”
Yussef and Ahmed are walking down the street, trying their best to act casual. Yussef keeps looking over his shoulder, as if expecting the police to jump out from behind every corner.
As they turn a corner, they run into Anwar, their father. He takes one look at their faces and immediately knows that something is wrong.
“What is it?” he asks in a commanding voice.
Yussef looks down at his feet, too scared to speak. Ahmed takes charge. “We found a gun, Dad. We were playing with it, and it went off. We didn’t mean to do it.”
Anwar’s face darkens as he processes this information. “You two stay here. I’ll go see what I can do.”
As Anwar walks away, Yussef can feel his heart pounding in his chest. He knows that something terrible has happened, and that he’s responsible.
Suddenly, they hear a loud commotion up the street. They peek around the corner and see Sheriff and his men coming towards them.
“Yussef! Ahmed! Come with me!” Anwar yells as he runs towards them. “We have to hide you!”
The three of them run into a nearby alleyway and huddle behind a dumpster. Yussef can feel the tears streaming down his face as he hears the police closing in. He knows that his life will never be the same again.
Scene 7
FADE IN:
EXT. MEXICAN WEDDING – DAY
The lively music and colorful decorations of a Mexican wedding surrounds them. The bride and groom are dancing, and the guests are laughing and having a great time. The two American children, MIKE and DEBBIE, are excitedly playing with the pinatas and the other kids.
NANNY (to Mike and Debbie): Come on, kids! It’s time to leave now.
BRIDE’S FATHER: No, they can’t leave yet!
NANNY: But, sir, we have to go back to the States tonight. We have no other choice.
BRIDE’S FATHER: Well, I don’t care. They’re not staying here.
The tension builds; the guests start whispering and looking around.
NANNY: Please, sir. Let us go. We don’t want to cause any trouble.
BRIDE’S FATHER: You already have. Just get out of here.
Suddenly, the sound of gunshots echoes through the air. Everyone freezes. The bride screams and drops to the ground, and chaos erupts. The guests run in all directions, and the Nanny tries to protect the kids.
NANNY: Mike, Debbie, stay with me! We have to get out of here!
DEBBIE: What’s happening, Nanny? Is this like the movies?
NANNY: No, sweetie. This is real. We have to run!
The Nanny grabs the children’s hands, and they run towards the exit. The gunfire continues, and the screams of people fill the air.
CUT TO:
EXT. MEXICAN STREETS – DAY
The Nanny, Mike and Debbie run frantically through the crowded streets, dodging people and traffic. They turn down a dark alley, and the Nanny quickly checks her phone.
NANNY: No signal. We’re on our own.
Suddenly, they hear footsteps behind them. They turn around to see two men in black suits approaching them.
MAN 1: Senorita, we need to talk to you.
NANNY: Who are you? What do you want?
MAN 2: We’re from the border patrol. We need to see your passports.
NANNY: We don’t have them. We left them at the hotel.
MAN 1: That’s too bad. You’ll have to come with us.
The Nanny tries to run, but the men grab her and the children.
CUT TO:
EXT. ABANDONED BUILDING – DAY
The Nanny, Mike and Debbie are locked in a dark room. The Nanny tries to calm the children down.
NANNY: It’s okay, kids. We’ll be okay. We just have to wait for help.
MIKE: What if no one comes?
DEBBIE: I’m scared, Nanny.
NANNY: I know, honey. I’m scared too. But we have to be strong and brave.
The door opens, and the two men enter the room.
MAN 1: We have orders to take you back to the States.
NANNY: Thank you. Thank you so much.
MAN 2: But there’s a price.
The Nanny looks at the men in fear.
MAN 1: You have to do something for us first.
The screen fades to black.
FADE OUT.
