Love finds a way to bloom, even in the most unexpected places.
Watch the original version of Sleepless in Seattle
Prologue:
Sam Baldwin was lost and alone after his wife’s passing. His world had crumbled. All he had left was his eight-year-old son Jonah, and he knew he had to be strong for him. With a heavy heart, Sam made the decision to start afresh in Seattle, where he hoped to find some sense of peace and normalcy.
As the plane touched down, Sam’s heart was pounding. This was a new beginning, but it was terrifying. Seattle was unfamiliar territory, and he had no idea what lay ahead. The only thing that kept him going was his unwavering love for Jonah.
Meanwhile, in Baltimore, Annie Reed was feeling lost in her own life. She was in a relationship that felt stagnant, and she was searching for something more. As she listened to Jonah’s phone-in on the radio, something stirred inside her, and she couldn’t shake the feeling that her life was about to change.
Chapter 1: “A New Start”
Sam’s new apartment was small and cozy, but it was a far cry from the spacious home he had shared with his wife. As he unpacked boxes and set up furniture, he felt a sense of emptiness wash over him. He missed his wife terribly, and he knew that Jonah did too.
The first few weeks in Seattle were tough. Sam struggled to adjust to his new life, and Jonah was missing his old friends. They spent the days exploring the city, trying to find their place in this strange new world.
One cold December evening, Jonah sat down to write a letter to Santa. But instead of asking for toys or gadgets, he made a wish that would change everything. He wished for a new mom for his dad.
The next day, Sam was listening to the radio when he heard Jonah’s voice. His heart sank as he realized what his son had done. He knew it was just a childish wish, but something about it struck a chord with him.
Annie Reed was listening to the same radio program in Baltimore, and she too was moved by Jonah’s story. She found herself drawn to Seattle and the man she had never met. She felt inexplicably drawn to Sam Baldwin and knew that she had to find a way to meet him.
Days turned to weeks, and Sam couldn’t get Jonah’s wish out of his head. He knew he had to do something, but he didn’t know what. That’s when a friend suggested he move on and start dating again.
Sam was hesitant at first, but he eventually agreed to go on a blind date. It was a disaster from the start, and he found himself longing for the comfort of his old life. He wished he could go back to the way things were before.
Meanwhile, Annie had arrived in Seattle and was staying in a hotel. She was determined to meet Sam, but she didn’t know how to make it happen. She spent her days wandering the city, trying to catch a glimpse of him.
As fate would have it, Annie and Jonah met at the airport, and they struck up a conversation. Jonah took a liking to her, and Annie found herself drawn to the little boy with the big heart. They spent the day together, exploring the city and having fun.
That night, Sam and Annie unexpectedly crossed paths, and they shared a moment that left them both reeling. There was an undeniable chemistry between them, but they both knew it was complicated. Sam was still grieving, and Annie was in a long-term relationship.
As their paths continued to cross, Sam and Annie couldn’t help but feel drawn to each other. They both knew it was dangerous territory, but they couldn’t resist the pull.
It was a world of uncertainty, but they were both willing to take the risk. Sam was ready to move on and start a new chapter in his life, and Annie was ready to leave the past behind and embrace a new beginning. Their journey was just beginning, and they had no idea where it would take them.
Chapter 2: “Christmas Wish”
On Christmas Eve, Jonah sat cross-legged on the floor of their tiny apartment in Seattle, surrounded by wrapping paper and discarded toys. He had a small radio in front of him, and he was listening to a special Christmas phone-in show that promised to fulfill the wishes of listeners.
Sam, his father, was sitting on the couch, staring blankly at the TV. He had been doing that a lot lately. Ever since his wife died, he had been struggling to find his way back to the world of the living. But he had to keep going for Jonah’s sake. Jonah was the light of his life, the reason he got up every morning.
Jonah listened intently to the radio show, waiting for his chance to make his wish. He had been planning it for days, ever since he saw a romantic comedy with his best friend. In the movie, the hero made a wish on a shooting star, and it came true. Jonah didn’t have any shooting stars in Seattle, but he had the radio show.
Finally, it was his turn. He took a deep breath and spoke into the phone. “Hi, my name is Jonah, and my wish is for my dad to find a new wife. He’s really sad since my mom died, and I want him to be happy again.”
Sam cringed at the sound of his son’s voice on the radio. He knew Jonah meant well, but the last thing he wanted was to be set up on a blind date. He was still in love with his wife, and he couldn’t imagine being with anyone else.
The radio host, a bubbly woman with an annoying laugh, asked Jonah to describe his dad. “He’s tall and handsome,” Jonah said. “And he has a really cool job. He’s an architect, and he builds big buildings.”
Sam rolled his eyes. He wasn’t tall, and he wasn’t particularly handsome. And his job was anything but cool. It was just a job. But Jonah didn’t know that. To him, his dad was a superhero.
The radio host continued to prod Jonah for more information. “What does your dad like to do in his free time?” she asked.
“He likes to play catch with me,” Jonah said. “And he likes to watch old movies. But he’s been sad lately, so he hasn’t done much of that.”
Sam winced at the mention of the movies. He and his wife used to watch old movies together all the time. But now, they just made him feel lonely.
The radio host thanked Jonah for his call and told him to stay tuned. “You never know,” she said. “Your wish might just come true.”
Sam turned off the radio and leaned back on the couch. “Great,” he muttered. “Now I’m going to have a bunch of women calling me, trying to set me up on dates.”
Jonah frowned. “But Dad, don’t you want to be happy again?”
Sam sighed. “Of course I want to be happy, Jonah. But I don’t think finding a new wife is the answer.”
Jonah looked up at him with big, innocent eyes. “But what if it is, Dad? What if there’s someone out there who can make you happy again?”
Sam didn’t have an answer for that. He just wrapped an arm around his son and held him close, hoping that somehow, things would get better.
Meanwhile, in Baltimore, Annie Reed was listening to the same radio show, feeling restless and bored. She was supposed to be spending Christmas Eve with her fiancé, but he had to work, so she was all alone in her apartment.
When she heard Jonah’s wish, something stirred inside her. She didn’t know why, but she felt drawn to the idea of helping this little boy find a new mom for his dad. It was crazy, of course. She didn’t even know these people. But something about the wish touched her heart.
Annie grabbed a pen and paper and started scribbling down notes. She wrote down the name of the radio station and the time of the show. She wrote down the address of the apartment building in Seattle where Jonah and his dad lived. And she wrote down a promise to herself that she would do whatever it took to make Jonah’s wish come true.
As she drifted off to sleep that night, she couldn’t shake the feeling that something amazing was about to happen. She didn’t know what it was, but she knew it was going to change her life forever.
Chapter 3: “Unexpected Connections”
Annie Reed couldn’t stop thinking about the man and his son she heard on the radio show. She had never believed in love at first sight, but something about their story had touched her deeply. She spent the next few days doing research, trying to find out more about the father and son in Seattle.
As she scrolled through her computer, Annie’s mind kept drifting back to the man’s voice on the phone. It was deep and soothing, with a hint of sadness that made Annie want to reach out and comfort him. She knew it was crazy to feel this way about someone she had never met, but she couldn’t help herself.
Annie decided to take a short trip to Seattle to clear her head and get a change of scenery. She booked a flight for the following week and started packing her bags.
The flight to Seattle was uneventful, but Annie couldn’t shake the feeling that she was about to embark on a new adventure. She had no idea what she was going to do once she got there, but she felt compelled to go.
When Annie arrived at the airport, she felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. She had never been to Seattle before and didn’t know anyone there, but she was determined to find out more about the father and son from the radio show.
She rented a car and drove to the hotel she had booked for the week. As she walked into the lobby, she felt a pang of loneliness. She was used to traveling alone, but this time felt different. She was on a mission, and she didn’t know if she was ready for the outcome.
Annie spent the next few days driving around Seattle, trying to find any information she could about the father and son. She checked out local coffee shops and bookstores, hoping to stumble upon someone who knew them. But she had no luck.
On the fourth day of her trip, Annie decided to take a walk in the park. As she was strolling along the path, she saw a group of kids playing soccer. One of them caught her eye. He was about eight years old and had curly brown hair. Something about him looked familiar.
Annie walked over to the soccer field and watched the game for a few minutes. Suddenly, the ball came flying towards her. She caught it and looked up to see the boy from the radio show running towards her.
“Hey, you caught my ball!” he said, grinning from ear to ear.
Annie couldn’t believe it. This was the boy from the radio show. She was speechless.
“What’s your name?” he asked.
“I’m Annie,” she replied.
“I’m Jonah,” he said, holding out his hand.
Annie shook his hand and smiled. She felt a spark of something between them. Jonah was a sweet kid, and he reminded her of her own younger brother.
“Are you here on vacation?” Jonah asked.
“Yes, I am,” Annie said.
“Did you come to see my dad?” Jonah asked.
Annie’s heart skipped a beat. She couldn’t believe Jonah knew she was looking for his father.
“Um, no, I didn’t,” she said, trying to sound casual.
“Liar,” Jonah said, giggling.
Annie laughed. She knew she couldn’t lie to this kid.
“Yes, actually, I did come to find your dad,” she admitted.
Jonah’s face lit up. “That’s so cool! I knew you came for us.”
Annie was taken aback by Jonah’s perception. He seemed to understand her motives better than she did.
“Can we go get some ice cream and talk?” Jonah asked.
Annie was hesitant at first, but looking into Jonah’s big brown eyes, she couldn’t say no. They walked over to a nearby ice cream stand and sat down on a bench.
“Tell me about my dad,” Jonah said, taking a big scoop of chocolate ice cream.
Annie took a deep breath. She wasn’t sure how much to reveal to an eight-year-old, but she decided to be honest.
“I heard your dad on the radio show,” Annie said. “He sounded like a really nice man.”
“He is,” Jonah said, nodding. “But he’s sad since Mom died.”
Annie felt a lump in her throat. She knew Jonah’s mother had passed away, but hearing it from him made it feel more real.
“I’m sorry to hear that,” she said, placing a hand on Jonah’s shoulder.
“It’s okay,” Jonah said, smiling. “He has me.”
Annie smiled back. She had a feeling that Jonah was right about his dad. Sam Baldwin seemed like a good man who had been through a lot.
“Can you help me find him?” Annie asked.
Jonah nodded eagerly. “I know where he is. He works at the Empire State Building.”
Annie was surprised. She had no idea Sam worked in New York.
“New York?” she asked.
“Yeah, that’s where we used to live before Mom got sick. Dad got a new job in Seattle after she died,” Jonah explained.
Annie felt a pang of sadness for Sam. She couldn’t imagine losing a spouse and having to uproot your life in the process.
“Can you take me to see your dad?” Annie asked Jonah.
“Sure!” Jonah said, finishing his ice cream.
Annie and Jonah got up from the bench and started walking towards the car. Annie couldn’t believe her luck. She had stumbled upon the boy from the radio show and was now on her way to meet his father.
As they drove towards the Empire State Building, Annie’s mind raced with questions. What was Sam like in person? Would he think she was crazy for showing up unannounced? And most importantly, did she have a chance with him?
As they pulled up to the building, Annie’s heart was pounding. She took a deep breath and followed Jonah inside.
Chapter 4: “A Chance Meeting”
Annie’s heart was pounding as she walked through the airport, looking for Sam and Jonah. She couldn’t believe she was actually in Seattle, on a whim, just to see them. It was crazy, she knew, but she couldn’t stop thinking about them.
And then, there he was. Little Jonah, standing alone with his backpack, looking up at her with a shy smile. “Hi,” he said, and Annie’s heart melted.
“Hi, Jonah. It’s so good to see you,” she said, stooping down to give him a hug. “Where’s your dad?”
“He went to get the car. He said it won’t take long,” Jonah said, bouncing a little on his feet.
Annie smiled, feeling a little nervous now. This was it, the moment she had been dreaming of. She was about to meet Sam Baldwin, the man she had fallen in love with through a radio show and a chance encounter in New York.
She glanced around the airport, trying to spot him. And then, there he was. Sam Baldwin, tall and handsome, walking towards them with a determined look on his face.
“Annie,” he said, his voice low and gruff. “What are you doing here?”
Annie felt her heart sink a little at the tone of his voice. She had imagined a warm, happy reunion, but this was more like a confrontation.
“I just wanted to see you,” she said, trying to keep her voice steady. “I know it’s crazy, but I had to come.”
Sam looked at her for a long moment, his eyes flicking over her face. And then, unexpectedly, he smiled. “Well, I’m glad you’re here. I think Jonah is too.”
Jonah grinned up at them both, his eyes bright with excitement. “Can we go get ice cream?” he asked.
Sam laughed. “Sure, let’s go get ice cream.”
They walked out of the airport together, Jonah chattering away about his life in Seattle and showing Annie all the sights. They went to a little ice cream shop on the waterfront, and Annie couldn’t help but notice the way Sam watched her as she talked to Jonah.
After they finished their ice cream, Sam suggested they take a walk along the waterfront. Annie agreed eagerly, trying to quell the butterflies in her stomach.
They walked in silence for a few minutes, the only sounds the lapping of the waves and the occasional seagull cry. Annie tried to think of something to say, but her mind was blank.
And then, out of nowhere, Sam spoke. “Annie, what are we doing?” he said, his voice low and intense.
Annie felt a jolt of fear run through her. Was he regretting their encounter in New York? Did he want her to leave?
“I…I don’t know,” she stammered.
“I mean, I know we had a connection, but…this is crazy. You coming all the way out here just to see us. And now…I don’t know, I just don’t know what to do.”
Annie felt a surge of anger, mixed with sadness. She had been so sure that Sam felt the same way she did. But now, it seemed like he was pulling away.
“I’m sorry,” she said, trying to keep the tears from spilling over. “I didn’t mean to make things difficult for you. I just…I had to see you. I had to try.”
Sam stopped walking and turned to face her. “Annie, I’m not saying I don’t want to be with you. I’m just saying…this is a big step. And I want to make sure we’re doing the right thing.”
Annie looked up at him, her heart beating fast. “And…what do you think the right thing is?”
Sam looked down at her, his eyes intense. “I think we need to take things slow. Get to know each other better. Make sure this is what we both want.”
Annie felt a wave of relief wash over her. Slow was good. She could do slow. “Okay,” she said, smiling up at him. “Slow is good.”
They walked back to the car, Jonah chattering away between them, and Annie felt a new sense of hope. Maybe this was the beginning of something great.
As they drove through the streets of Seattle, Sam pointed out all the landmarks and talked a little about his life there. Annie listened with interest, trying to picture herself in this new city with this new family.
When they got back to Sam’s house, Jonah begged for Annie to stay for dinner. Sam looked a little hesitant, but finally gave in. “Okay, but it’s just leftovers,” he said, grinning a little.
Annie smiled back, feeling relieved that they could spend a little more time together. She helped Jonah set the table, and they all sat down to a casual meal of spaghetti and meatballs.
As they ate, they talked about their lives and their hopes for the future. Annie found herself opening up to Sam in a way that she had never done before, telling him about her fears and doubts and dreams.
And as they cleared the dishes away and settled in for the evening, watching a movie together, Annie felt a sense of peace settle over her. Maybe this wasn’t going to be easy. Maybe this was going to be a long, slow journey. But she was willing to take that journey with Sam, and Jonah too.
As the end credits rolled and everyone got up to go to bed, Annie felt a new sense of hope. Maybe this was the beginning of something great. Maybe this was her chance to find true love, in the most unexpected of places.
Chapter 5: “The Big Date”
Sam had reluctantly agreed to go on a date with a woman he had been set up with by a friend. He knew that he wasn’t ready to move on from his wife’s death, but he also knew that he couldn’t keep living in the past. He decided that he would go on the date and try to have a good time.
Annie, on the other hand, had spent the day with Jonah, and they had bonded over their shared love of books. She had been excited to see Sam again that night and was looking forward to spending time with him.
Sam arrived at the restaurant early, feeling nervous and unsure of what to expect. He ordered a drink and waited for his date to arrive. When she did, he was pleasantly surprised. She was attractive and seemed nice, but there was just something missing. He couldn’t put his finger on it, but he knew that he wasn’t feeling a connection.
They started talking, and Sam found himself struggling to keep the conversation going. He couldn’t stop thinking about Annie and Jonah and wondering what they were doing. He felt guilty for even being on this date, but he knew that he had to try.
Annie and Jonah had spent the day exploring Seattle and had ended up at a bookstore. They had been there for hours, lost in the pages of their favorite books. When Annie realized the time, she suddenly panicked. She had forgotten about the time and her plans with Sam.
They rushed out of the bookstore and hailed a cab to take them to the restaurant. As they were driving, Annie couldn’t stop thinking about Sam and wondering what he would think of her being late. She knew that she wanted to make a good impression, but she also knew that she had a connection with Sam that went deeper than just first impressions.
When they arrived, Annie was relieved to see Sam waiting for her. He looked handsome in his suit, but she could tell that something was off. They hugged and sat down at the table, and Sam introduced her to his date.
Annie could tell immediately that there was no chemistry between them, and she felt a pang of jealousy. She sat down and tried to make polite conversation, but it was awkward and stilted. She couldn’t stop thinking about how much she wished she was on a date with Sam instead.
As the night went on, Sam grew more and more uncomfortable. He couldn’t shake the feeling that he was in the wrong place. When his date excused herself to use the restroom, he turned to Annie and asked her how her day had been.
Annie smiled and launched into a description of her day with Jonah, talking animatedly about the books they had read and the places they had visited. Sam listened intently, hanging on her every word.
When his date returned, the conversation turned back to small talk. Sam tried to engage with her, but he couldn’t help but feel like he was wasting his time. Annie watched them both, feeling a sense of sadness and disappointment.
Finally, the night ended, and Sam and his date said their goodbyes. As they left the restaurant, Sam turned to Annie and apologized for the awkwardness of the night. He told her that he didn’t feel a connection with his date and that he wanted to spend more time with her.
Annie’s heart skipped a beat. She couldn’t believe what she was hearing. She had been falling for Sam, but she didn’t know if he felt the same way. She told him that she felt the same and that she wanted to see him again.
They walked back to Sam’s apartment, hand in hand, feeling a sense of excitement that they hadn’t felt in years. When they arrived, Sam invited Annie in for a drink. They sat on the couch, sipping wine and talking late into the night.
As the night wore on, they found themselves getting closer and closer to each other. They laughed and joked, and Annie felt like she was finally where she was meant to be. As they leaned in for a kiss, the door opened, and Jonah walked in.
He looked up at them, surprised to see them sitting so close together. They quickly pulled away, feeling embarrassed. Jonah looked from one to the other, a sly smile on his face.
“I knew it!” he said. “I knew you two would like each other.”
Sam and Annie laughed, feeling a sense of relief and happiness. They knew that Jonah was right. They had finally found what they had been looking for in each other.
As they hugged Jonah tightly, they both knew that their lives would never be the same again. They had found love in the most unexpected of places, and they knew that they would never let it go.
Chapter 6: “The Confession”
Annie sat nervously in her hotel room, her heart racing as she stared at her phone. She knew what she had to do, but she didn’t know how to do it. She had fallen in love with Sam, but she wasn’t sure if he felt the same way.
Meanwhile, Sam sat alone in his apartment, staring out at the Seattle skyline. He couldn’t stop thinking about Annie and the way he felt every time he was around her. He knew that he was falling for her, but he was scared to admit it.
As the night wore on, both of them tossed and turned, unable to sleep. Finally, they both decided to take a walk to clear their heads.
Sam wandered down to the harbor, gazing out at the water as he tried to make sense of his feelings. He knew that he couldn’t deny them any longer, but he was scared to take the next step. Just then, he heard footsteps behind him.
“Sam?” Annie’s voice was soft and hesitant.
He turned to face her, his heart pounding in his chest. “Annie,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.
They stood there for a moment, just gazing at each other, until finally Annie spoke. “Sam, I have to tell you something. I know this is going to sound crazy, but…I think I’m in love with you.”
Sam’s heart leapt in his chest. He had been hoping and praying that she would say those words, but he wasn’t sure if he was ready to hear them. “Annie, I don’t know what to say…”
“I know, Sam, I know. And I don’t want to put any pressure on you or anything. I just…I had to tell you. I couldn’t keep it inside anymore.”
They stood there, gazing at each other, until finally Sam spoke. “Annie, I feel the same way. I’ve been trying to deny it, but…I think I’m falling in love with you too.”
Annie’s eyes widened in surprise. “Really?”
Sam nodded. “Yeah. Every time I’m around you, I just…I feel so alive. I know it sounds cheesy, but it’s true.”
Annie smiled, her heart filled with joy. “Sam, I’m so happy to hear that.”
They stood there for a moment, their eyes locked, until finally Sam spoke again. “Annie, I don’t want to rush things or anything, but…would you like to go out with me? On a real date, I mean?”
Annie’s heart leapt in her chest. “Yes, Sam, I would love that.”
They didn’t say anything else, but they didn’t need to. They both knew that this was the start of something new and beautiful.
As they walked back to their respective hotels, their minds filled with thoughts of each other, they couldn’t help but feel grateful for the wish that Jonah had made. Without it, they might never have found each other.
The next morning, Annie woke up with a smile on her face. She couldn’t wait to see Sam again, to start this new chapter of her life. And Sam felt the same way.
As they set out on their date that night, they both knew that this was just the beginning. They had no idea where this journey would take them, but they were excited to find out.
And as they walked hand in hand, gazing up at the stars, they both knew that they were exactly where they were meant to be. Together.
Chapter 7: “Happily Ever After”
Sam and Annie were finally together, looking forward to the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. After confessing their love for each other, they felt like everything has fallen into place. Jonah was thrilled to have a new mom, and the three of them felt like a complete family.
As they settled into a new routine, Annie found herself struggling with balancing work and her newfound role as a stepmom. She wondered if she was doing a good enough job and if Jonah really accepted her as part of the family. Sam tried to reassure her, telling her that she was doing great and that Jonah loved her more than anything.
One day, Sam surprised Annie with a trip to New York City. He had secretly planned a romantic getaway, hoping to show her a good time and ease her stress. They explored the city, visiting popular tourist sites, trying different foods, and shopping.
As they walked along Central Park, Sam took Annie’s hand and pulled her into a quiet corner. He looked into her eyes and said, “Annie, I love you so much. You have brought so much joy into my life, and I want to spend the rest of my life making you happy.” Annie was confused but intrigued.
Sam got down on one knee and presented a jewelry box. Annie gasped as he opened it, revealing a beautiful diamond engagement ring. “Annie, will you marry me?” he asked, his heart pounding.
Tears ran down Annie’s face as she said, “Yes, I will marry you!” They embraced, and Sam slipped the ring onto her finger. They kissed, feeling the energy and excitement of a new chapter in their relationship.
As they returned to Seattle, they began planning their wedding. They made a list of guests and started looking for a venue. Annie had always dreamed of getting married on an outdoor patio overlooking the Puget Sound, and Sam found the perfect place.
The day of the wedding was beautiful. Friends and family gathered to watch Sam and Annie exchange their vows overlooking the water. The ceremony was emotional, with both Sam and Annie reciting heartfelt vows to each other.
As the night went on, everyone danced, ate, and celebrated the love between Sam and Annie. The night was filled with laughter and joy as they began their new life together.
Years went by, and Sam and Annie built a wonderful life together. They had children of their own, and Jonah grew up to be a successful businessman. They were surrounded by loved ones and had created a happy, content life filled with love and laughter.
As they sat on the porch, watching the sunset over Seattle, Sam took Annie’s hand and squeezed it tightly. “I love you,” he said, his eyes filling with tears.
“I love you too,” Annie replied, knowing that she had found her soulmate in Sam.
And so, the story of Sam, Annie, and Jonah came to an end, but their love story would live on forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved them. They had proven that anything was possible with love, and they had shown the world that true love knows no boundaries.
Some scenes from the movie Sleepless in Seattle written by A.I.
Scene 1
FADE IN:
EXT. NEW YORK CITY STREET – DAY
We open with a wide shot of a busy New York City street with a sea of yellow taxis honking their horns and people hurrying about. Amongst this chaos, we see SAM BALDWIN (40s), a handsome and rugged man, clutching his eight-year-old son JONAH’S (8) hand tightly. They both look lost and apprehensive.
SAM
(to Jonah)
We’re going to be okay, buddy. We’re going to start a new life here.
JONAH
(worried)
Do we have to?
SAM
(sighing)
Yes, Jonah. This is a new beginning for us.
As they continue walking, Sam looks up at a towering skyscraper in the distance.
SAM (V.O)
I never thought I’d leave Chicago. But after my wife passed away, I knew I had to start over somewhere new. So, I packed up my life and my son and moved to Seattle.
CUT TO:
INT. SEATTLE APARTMENT – NIGHT
Sam is putting Jonah to bed in a small but cozy apartment. Jonah clings to his stuffed bear as Sam tucks him in.
SAM
(worried)
How you feeling?
JONAH
(sad)
I miss Mom.
SAM
(fighting back tears)
I know, buddy. I do too.
Sam gently kisses Jonah on the forehead and pulls the covers up to his chin.
JONAH
(suddenly excited)
Dad, tomorrow’s Christmas Eve! Can I stay up late to listen to the radio with you?
Sam smiles sadly at his son.
SAM
(sighing)
Sure, Jonah. But don’t get your hopes up. It’s just a silly radio show.
As Sam turns to leave, Jonah’s face falls.
JONAH
(disappointed)
Oh.
Sam is filled with a sudden pang of guilt as he leaves the room.
SAM (V.O)
I wasn’t exactly looking forward to listening to that radio show. But I knew I had to do anything to make my son happy, even if it meant listening to a bunch of sappy love stories.
FADE OUT.
Scene 2
FADE IN:
INT. SAM’S HOUSE – NIGHT
Sam and Jonah are sitting on the couch, listening to the radio. Jonah is on the phone, participating in a Christmas phone-in show, while Sam listens in.
RADIO HOST: And now we have Jonah from Seattle on the line. What’s your Christmas wish, Jonah?
JONAH: (excitedly) Hi! My Christmas wish is for my dad to find a new wife.
Sam looks surprised and a little uncomfortable, but tries to play along for Jonah’s sake.
RADIO HOST: Aww, that’s a sweet wish. Can you tell us more about your dad?
JONAH: (proudly) My dad is the best dad in the world. He’s really nice and funny and he deserves to find someone who loves him.
The radio host thanks Jonah and moves on to the next caller. Sam looks at Jonah with a mixture of affection and apprehension.
SAM: You know, Jonah, you don’t have to wish for me to find a new wife. I’m happy just being with you.
JONAH: (earnestly) I know, dad. But I just thought it would be nice for you to have someone else to love too.
Sam smiles at Jonah, touched by his son’s thoughtfulness.
SAM: (softly) Thanks, buddy. That means a lot to me.
FADE OUT.
Scene 3
Logline: A widower and his son move to Seattle to start a new life, and a radio wish for a new wife brings unexpected connections and a chance at love.
Scene 3: “Unexpected Connections”
INT. ANNIE’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Annie is sitting at her computer, scrolling through pages of information about Sam and Jonah. She’s intrigued by their story and can’t help feeling drawn to them. She picks up the phone and dials a number.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Sam is sitting on the couch, watching TV, when the phone rings. He answers it.
SAM
Hello?
ANNIE (V.O.)
Hi, I’m sorry to bother you, but my name is Annie Reed. I’m a journalist from Baltimore, and I’ve been listening to your story on the radio.
Sam is taken aback.
SAM
Oh, really?
ANNIE (V.O.)
Yes, I find it fascinating, and I was wondering if I could ask you a few questions.
Sam hesitates for a moment, then decides to go along with it.
SAM
Sure, I guess.
ANNIE (V.O.)
Great! Well, first of all, how are you and Jonah settling in to Seattle?
Sam relaxes a bit, and the conversation flows easily from there. They talk for over an hour, and Sam finds himself enjoying the connection he feels with this stranger from across the country.
CUT TO:
INT. ANNIE’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Annie hangs up the phone, feeling excited and nervous. She can’t shake the feeling that there’s something special about Sam and Jonah, and she’s determined to find out more. She starts packing her bags.
FADE OUT.
Scene 4
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Setting: Seattle, Washington
Characters:
SAM BALDWIN: A recently widowed architect who moves to Seattle with his son to start a new life.
ANNIE REED: A journalist from Baltimore who is looking for something new in her life.
JONAH BALDWIN: Sam’s eight-year-old son who is hoping to find a new wife for his dad.
Scene from Chapter 4: “A Chance Meeting”
INT. SEATTLE AIRPORT – DAY
Annie is walking through the airport, looking around for Sam and Jonah. She spots a little boy with a sign that reads “Jonah Baldwin” and approaches him.
ANNIE
(smiling)
Hey, you must be Jonah.
JONAH
(shyly)
Yeah, that’s me.
ANNIE
(extends hand)
I’m Annie. Your dad and I have been talking on the radio.
JONAH
(excitedly)
You’re the lady who likes my dad!
Annie chuckles and nods. Just then, Sam appears, looking a bit frazzled.
SAM
(panting)
Sorry I’m late. My flight got delayed.
ANNIE
(smiling)
No worries. It gave me a chance to get to know Jonah.
They exchange introductions, and Sam can’t help but notice how beautiful and kind Annie is. They all start walking out of the airport together.
SAM
(to Annie)
So, what brings you to Seattle?
ANNIE
(looks at Sam)
You.
Sam looks surprised.
SAM
Me?
ANNIE
(smiling)
I couldn’t stop thinking about you and Jonah. I had to come see for myself.
Sam smiles, feeling a spark of hope ignite within him.
SAM
(feeling grateful)
Well, we’re glad to have you here.
They all walk out of the airport, the sun shining bright over Seattle.
FADE OUT.
Scene 5
EXT. SEATTLE AIRPORT – DAY
Annie wanders through the airport, her eyes scanning the crowd for any sign of Jonah. She grips her phone tightly, waiting for him to call. Suddenly, she hears a child’s voice calling out.
JONAH (O.S.)
Annie!
Annie turns around and sees Jonah rushing towards her, his arms outstretched. She kneels down and gives him a hug.
ANNIE
(grinning)
Hey there, champ! How was the flight?
JONAH
(excitedly)
It was great! I sat next to a pilot!
Annie laughs and stands up, adjusting her bag on her shoulder.
ANNIE
Alright, let’s get going. Your dad is probably waiting for us.
Jonah nods and takes off running, with Annie following close behind.
INT. LOCAL COFFEE SHOP – DAY
Sam sits nervously at a small table, sipping his coffee and tapping his foot. He checks his phone for the millionth time, hoping to see a text from Annie. Suddenly, she walks in the door, looking gorgeous in a simple but stylish outfit.
ANNIE
(smiling)
Sorry I’m late. Jonah and I got a little sidetracked.
Sam stands up and pulls out a chair for her, smiling bashfully.
SAM
(chuckles)
That’s alright. I’ve got all day.
They sit down and chat nervously at first, but soon they’re laughing and joking like old friends.
INT. MOVIE THEATER – NIGHT
Annie and Sam sit side-by-side in the dark theater, munching on popcorn and watching a romantic comedy. Annie glances over at Sam, who looks lost in thought.
ANNIE
(sotto voce)
Hey, what’s on your mind?
SAM
(staring ahead)
Just thinking about everything, I guess. This whole thing with Jonah and the radio show…it’s all been so crazy.
ANNIE
(turns towards him)
But good crazy, right?
Sam turns to look at her, his eyes full of emotion.
SAM
(nodding)
Yeah, good crazy.
Suddenly, the movie screen flickers and goes black. The projector whirs to a stop, and the theater is plunged into silence.
INT. MOVIE THEATER – LATER
Annie and Sam walk out of the theater, shaking their heads in disbelief.
ANNIE
(laughing)
Can you believe that? The movie just broke right at the climax!
SAM
(shrugs)
What can you do? Maybe it’s a sign.
Annie looks at him, curiosity in her eyes.
ANNIE
A sign of what?
Sam takes a deep breath and looks directly at her.
SAM
(serious)
A sign that maybe I’m not supposed to be alone. That maybe…I’m supposed to be with you.
Annie’s eyes widen in surprise, but then a soft smile spreads across her face.
ANNIE
(nodding)
I know what you mean. I feel the same way.
They stand there for a moment, gazing into each other’s eyes. Then Sam takes her hand and leads her out of the theater, into the night.