dnesmith
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I have posted before but had trouble trying to post my script.I'm a writer developing a project on Michael.I just want to have feedback from the fans on my script.It was finished on his birthday.This is the first part of the script based on MJ's teens and his "adventures" in NYC in 54.If people like it I'll post more but please leave comments:
Someone told me they couldn't open it so this is the 1st half from the 70s to NYC:
INT.MICHAEL AND RANDY'S BEDROOM-EARLY MORNING(1976)
CLOSE SHOT
A handsome,tall yet thin black teenage boy MICHAEL JACKSON
(18)buttons the last button on his vest.MJ steps over books,
clothes,papers and clutter.He goes into the closet,reaches
in and gets a pair of penny loafers.He puts them on.
EXT.HAYVENHURST-EARLY MORNING
A heavily guarded mock Tudor estate sits behind tall wrought
iron gates as a black Lincoln Town car pulls up and the
gates open.Standing behind the ominous gates SECURITY
patrols the vicinity.
INT.HAYVENHURST-JANET AND LATOYA'S BEDROOM-MORNING
Baby face JANET JACKSON(10)sleeps with her doll babies and
stuffed animals with fluffy pillows by her side in a
canopied bed.Michael enters...walks around the bed and
kisses Janet.
MJ moves to a pink velvet chair in the corner and sits.His
long feet with white socks on fills the frame.Michael
(silhouetted by morning light)stares at Janet.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Dunk? Are you awake?
JANET JACKSON
(sleepy)
No Michael.
Michael sits there.He picks up a Ebony Junior magazine,flips
through some pages.
EXT.HAYVENHURST-EARLY MORNING
The Lincoln Town car pulls up in front Hayvenhurst.STEVE
MANNING(early 20s)and BILL BRAY get out.Manning goes toward
the house as Bray follows.
INT.HALL-HAYVENHURST-SAME
Michael walks down the hall.He's reading a newspaper as he
turns the corner.
INT.HAYVENHURST-LIVING ROOM-DAY(1976)
Manning and Bray and enter.The home is elegantly furnished
and decorated in airy comfortable pastels.Manning sits on
the couch while Bray stands.Michael comes in.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Hi Bray.
BILL BRAY
'Eh Joker.
Steve Manning(a awkward black man with large glasses)reads
off a schedule to Michael.MJ nods,reaches into his pocket
and takes out a piece of candy.He offers Manning some.
STEVE MANNING
No,thank you.
(a beat)
You have an interview.Today,its
around 2 or 3 o'clock? I have to
double check.Make sure to be back
by then.
MICHAEL JACKSON
With who?
STEVE MANNING
Not sure.Some music magazine.
MICHAEL JACKSON
What are the numbers looking like?
STEVE MANNING
I dunno Mike.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Could you get a copy of Billboard.
STEVE MANNING
Sure.
EXT.HAYVENHURST-EARLY MORNING
MJ hurries down the steps to the car,carrying library books.
Bray escorts Michael into the Lincoln Town car.The car pulls
off down the driveway.
FADE OUT:
FADE IN:
EXT.HAYVENHURST-DAY(1976)
A beautiful Rolls Royce sits in the driveway.RANDY JACKSON
(15)with bare feet plays with his dog(a German Shepherd)as
Janet(wearing one of her siblings old t-shirts)rides her
bike up and down the yard.
RANDY JACKSON
Janet.
Randy watches her zoom past before heading inside.He walks
past LATOYA JACKSON(20)sweet yet quietly sexy lounging by
the pool.
INT.HAYVENHURST-SAME
Randy heads into the kitchen.He goes to the refrigerator:
C.U-Homemade desserts and serving platters covered in
plastic wrap.Pushing around a carton of milk,he finds a
pitcher of lemonade.
Randy pours himself a glass drinking it down in one gulp.He
pours another,puts the pitcher back and heads upstairs.
INT.MICHAEL AND RANDY'S BEDROOM-DAY(1976)
Michael sits on his bed,drawing.He picks up a eraser,brushes
the pad and continues.Watching his older brother,Randy
enters and sits down on his bed.
RANDY JACKSON
Did you see the review?
MICHAEL JACKSON
(sketching)
Not yet.I'm waitin' for Steve to
bring me a copy of Billboard.
RANDY JACKSON
There not selling like they use to
Mike.The album, Goin Places was the
worst Mike,it didn't even crack the
top 50....what are we gonna do?
Michael looks up from the pad.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I dunno.
Continues to draw.
MICHAEL JACKSON
We need to write our own stuff,I
mean we're making progress but its
not there... I just think it wasn't
us you know...right album but wrong
artist....its not our sound...we
gotta find our sound,what makes us
unique.
RANDY JACKSON
Did you do your interview?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Yeah.Same ole' same ole'.
RANDY JACKSON
Also.Mother said dinner's ready.
Michael slides out of the bed following his brother.
INT.HAYVENHURST-DINING ROOM-EVENING
A weeknight dinner at Hayvenhurst as the Jackson kids sit
around the table.A huge spread of soul food lines the table.
Clutching hands,KATHERINE JACKSON leads grace as everyone
keeps their eyes closed.
Michael and Latoya mouth the Jehovah's Witness prayer.
KATHERINE JACKSON
Janet,slow down.The food is not
going anywhere.
(RE:MJ)
Now Michael,is that all you gonna
eat?
MICHAEL JACKSON
(poking his collard greens)
I'm not hungry.
KATHERINE JACKSON
Latoya,what time is your photo
shoot tomorrow? Because if its not
too late maybe we can go shopping.
Randy passes a bowl of yams,Michael refills Janet's glass.
LATOYA JACKSON
I'm not sure but I have to check.
MICHAEL JACKSON
What time are you going?
INT.HAYVENHURST-NIGHT
AFTER DINNER:
Michael and Randy go into the kitchen,clearing plates.Latoya
follows them.
LATOYA JACKSON
Hand me the plates.
Latoya washes dishes with her manicure nails.She scrubs the
plates handing them off to Randy.Randy dries the plates,then
hands them to Michael,who puts them in the cabinets.Janet
watches her older siblings clean the kitchen while she puts
away silverware.
INT.LIVING ROOM-HAYVENHURST-LATER
Michael sits on the floor with Janet(Indian style).She curls
up underneath him,lays her head on Michael's shoulder.Latoya
sits on the couch,watching TV.
MJ clicks quickly through the channels then stops.
THE TV--
THE FREDDIE PRINZE SHOW on ABC.
Katherine comes in.
KATHERINE JACKSON
...its time for bed now...
Randy and Michael(carrying Janet)head upstairs for bed.
RANDY JACKSON
(kissing her,then--)
'Night Toya.
LATOYA JACKSON
(re:Randy)
Good Night,Randy.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(kissing her,then--)
Good Night,'toya.
LATOYA JACKSON
(re:Michael)
'Night Mike.
Latoya kisses Janet,still sleep.With a big yawn,Michael
climbs the carpeted stairs up their beds.
INT.MICHAEL AND RANDY'S BEDROOM-MIDNIGHT
Michael lays in bed,sketching in a large artist's pad.Sound
asleep,Randy hears nothing.
C.U-Artist models,textbooks,awards,plants,small figurines,
cartoon characters,line their shelves.Though silent,the
sound of pencil scratching paper fills the room.
Its 12:00 a.m.Michael puts the pad away and turns off the
lights.
EXT.HAYVENHURST-NIGHT
Suddenly the pitch black is cut,a car turns in.The glow of
headlights illuminates the driveway.A Mercedes pulls into
park.Getting out with a briefcase JOE JACKSON heads inside.
INT.HAYVENHURST-SAME
Joe enters.He hangs up his coat and hat,places his briefcase
on the floor.Joe looks in the den,no kids.The house is quiet
now.Looking into the kitchen he sees Katherine.
INT.KITCHEN-HAYVENHURST
Katherine stands at the sink,washing a little saucer.She
finishes as Joseph comes in.Katherine looks at his face,she
searches it for an answer to his whereabouts.There is none.
With a sly smile,Joe kisses her.
JOE JACKSON
(smirking)
Whats for dinner Katie?
KATHERINE JACKSON
(forlorn)
Want me to fix you a plate?
Joe sits down.
JOE JACKSON
Okay Katie.
Katherine begins to fix Joe's food.She heats it up and
serves him.Katherine sips her tea as Joe eats his meal.
CUT TO:
Waiting till he's done,she removes the plate.Joe wipes his
mouth.
JOE JACKSON
Where's Michael?
Katherine looks up from her cup--
KATHERINE JACKSON
(quiet,then--)
...He's sleep Joe....
JOE JACKSON
...I need to talk to him...
Katherine shakes her head at her husband.
KATHERINE JACKSON
...Can't it wait till morning...
JOE JACKSON
No, I gotta talk to the boy now.
INT.HALL-HAYVENHURST-SAME
Joe passes Janet and Latoya's bedroom and sees the light
on.Joe continues and stops at a door at the end of the
hall.He knocks softly on the door.
Joseph hesitates entering his sons' room.Finally,he goes
inside.Joe opens the door to see Michael and Randy.Joe
stands there and stares at Michael.
After a few moments,he takes a seat on the edge of the
bed.The weight of his presence wakes Michael.Opening his
eyes,Michael stares back at Joseph's waiting gaze.
JOE JACKSON
...we need to talk...
INT.HAYVENHURST-KITCHEN-SAME
CLOSE ON A WRINKLE BROWN PAPER BAG
Underneath a box of DOUGHNUTS,there the shiny glaze kind.
Michael stares at Joe,their relationship is not a typical
father and son's.Michael's eyes read Joseph's face,searching
more for his intentions rather than affection.
Slowly,he pushes the box of doughnuts toward Michael.
JOE JACKSON
(pushing the box)
C'mon,there your favorite.
His doe eyes stare back at Joseph.Michael is skeptical,he's
too sleepy to argue with him.Looking at the box,Michael
picks up the doughnut.
MICHAEL JACKSON
What is it,Joseph?
JOE JACKSON
...some stuff with CBS...
Michael looks up from his doughnut--
MICHAEL JACKSON
...What is it? What's wrong?...
JOE JACKSON
...Alexenburg is not happy with the
sales...its like I keep tellin'
them to let us write our own
stuff...
Michael(resting his elbows on the table)shakes his head.
MICHAEL JACKSON
...the business people have to
understand what's going on...they
wanna sell music like we make
it...that's all...
JOE JACKSON
...I'm worried Michael...
MICHAEL JACKSON
(sighs,then--)
...What do you want me to do?...
Joe looks at his son.
JOE JACKSON
...Come to New York with me....
MICHAEL JACKSON
When?
JOE JACKSON
Few days.
Michael thinks for a second.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Fine, Joseph.
FADE OUT:
FADE IN:
EXT.CALIFORNIA STREET-DAY
A bright colored CADILLAC SEVILLE travels down a beautiful
sun drenched neighborhood.
EXT.ENCINO,CALIFORNIA-DAY
Rolling up onto the sidewalk,the car pulls up to huge
menacing iron gates.Slowly the automatic car window goes
down.
HANGING OUT THE CAR WINDOW -
The DRIVER reaches towards the three button intercom
system.Hitting the "TALK" button, the sound of STATIC is
interrupted by a voice.
SECURITY GUARD (O.S.)
(militant)
Yes.
DRIVER
(speaking into the intercom)
Hello....yes, my name is SAM
BROWN.I have business with Mr.JOE
JACKSON and MICHAEL JACKSON.Their
expecting me.
Some silence,then--
SECURITY GUARD (O.S.)
(militant)
Your clear.
Slowly the menacing gates open.Sam leans back into his car
as the automatic window goes up.The bright colored Caddy
heads down the drive to the beautiful Tudor home.
INT/EXT.HAYVENHURST-A FEW MINUTES LATER
Sam pulls up.No one is around,making the large house seem
more like uninhabited home.Sam gets out of his car,he's a
stocky dark-skinned black man with a noticeable gap in his
smile.His Afro is a little matted but still fine.
With his briefcase in hand,he goes to the door.
ECU-DOORBELL:Sam's finger presses the button.The front door
opens--
SAM BROWN
Hello?
Looking down,its Janet.
JANET JACKSON
Hello...
SAM BROWN
(looking into the house)
Is one of your brothers home?
JANET JACKSON
Yes...
He plays along.
SAM BROWN
OK, which one?
JANET JACKSON
"Which one", what?
SAM BROWN
(looking down at Janet)
Which one of your brothers is home?
Janet turns around and looks inside--
JANET JACKSON
MARLON,RANDY and MIKE.
SAM BROWN
Mike?....Michael,he's home?
JANET JACKSON
(hanging on the door)
Yes...we were in the den watchin'
TV.
Suddenly the sound of FOOTSTEPS enter the room,they approach
the front door.Their pacing and rhythm is different,their
older.
Reaching for the front door...
- OVER JANET'S SHOULDER
MICHAEL appears in the doorway wearing an old J5 t-shirt and
jeans.Michael is much older than the last time Sam has seen
him.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Sam?
SAM BROWN
Michael,your sister here wouldn't
lemme in the house...
MICHAEL JACKSON
(laughing)
She's not suppose to unless we say
so...C'mon in,JOSEPH is waiting for
you in his office.
Janet walks ahead of Michael and Sam--running off into the
den,they need to talk business.
SAM BROWN
SO...what's goin' on Mike?...Why
Joseph call me here, give it to me
straight.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Sam...its the last album...it just
wasn't the right sound for us...
maybe its time we explored our
options... we don't want Kenny and
Leon to think they're doin'
anything wrong.
Sam stops.
SAM BROWN
Michael...if you think that's
best...then I can't tell ya any
different.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I don't wanna get involve...talk to
Joseph.
Sam sighs.
SAM BROWN
(shaking his head)
Alright, you lead the way this is
your place.
MICHAEL JACKSON
OK, Sam...
INT/EXT.HAYVENHURST-CONTINUOUS
Sam Brown follows Michael through the huge home.Its well
maintained,Katherine's presence is everywhere in it.
Sam glances at all the awards the brothers have earned over
the years.Its almost like a mini shrine to all their
achievements.They stop.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(pointing to the door)
Here you go.
Sam looks at Michael--
SAM BROWN
(stern)
'member what I said.
Michael nods before heading back down the hall.
INT.JOE JACKSON'S OFFICE-CONTINUOUS
An ultra modern home office reflective of the California
style.Amongst typical office supplies sits an extremely over
stuffed Rolodex,pen holder,rotary phone and a 24kt. gold
lion sprawled across the edge.
Sam enters,Joe spins around--
JOE JACKSON
Sam, Sam Brown...have a seat.
Sam is anticipating a different reaction but still this one
is welcomed.
SAM BROWN
Joe, man...I flew all the way out
here from Philly..so, what's goin'
on...Leon and Kenny are hearing
things from the A&R people on the
West Coast...and it ain't good
brotha... somethin' 'bout sales?
JOE JACKSON
That last record was a flop...my
boys are stars...they can't be
havin' this...they got mouths to
feed.
SAM BROWN
(leaning back in his seat)
Look, this is over our heads
now...the "suits" are involved.
Joe goes through his papers.
JOE JACKSON
You talk to ALEXENBERG?
SAM BROWN
Yeah...he believes in you, so does
Leon and Kenny and COLMBY...but
its--
JOE JACKSON
Its not believin' that we need...
the boys need to do their own stuff
and that's all there is to it.
Sam folds his hands.
SAM BROWN
So..what are you gonna do?
JOE JACKSON
I guess its time to renegotiate
...we need to move on.
SAM BROWN
I'm just lettin' you know that
Alexenberg is gonna call you...
YENTIKOFF is on the war path,
givin' you a heads up..somethin'
might happen...
JOE JACKSON
Like what?
SAM BROWN
I dunno...but keep your ear to the
ground.
INT.CBS/EPIC RECORDS OFFICE BOARD ROOM-DAY
CBS EXECUTIVES in their leisure suits and all black sit
around the massive table going over the current artist on
the label.
Sitting at the head is a fierce wild man WALTER YENTIKOFF
(mid 40s)runs CBS like a musical empire with slicked back
hair,leisure suit and a gold chain.
On the other side of him is RON ALEXENBURG(mid 20s)young
music executive and right arm to Yentikoff.Alexenburg
listens to the numbers on albums when The Jacksons come up.
VETERAN MUSIC EXECUTIVE
The Jacksons are doing extremely
poor in sales Walter...its actually
the worst I've seen from them on
this last album.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
(sarcastic)
Well...there goes another one.
RON ALEXENBURG
..you know, I never would have
thought we would be having this
conversation about this particular
group...
YOUNG MUSIC EXECUTIVE
This last one only placed at number
64 on the POP charts...look,we
conferred with the West Coast reps
...the brothers haven't had a hit
since they left Motown...its
startin' to look like they left
their talent their too.
BOBBY COLMBY
They're not done.
Sitting across from Alexenburg and Yentikoff is BOBBY
COLMBY(late 20s)music executive for CBS.The only minority in
the room.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Ever since they did that Vegas
kitschy shit its been down hill and
I told you not to hire their asses.
WEST COAST MUSIC EXECUTIVE
The West Coast wants to buy them
out of their contract.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Its time to do...what we need to
do...the Jacksons are not...
commercially viable any longer...
its over.
Executive writes on legal pad.
CBS MUSIC EXECUTIVE
"Over"?
Bobby is speechless.
BOBBY COLMBY
You want me to fire...fire The
Jacksons?!
RON ALEXENBURG
Offer them a deal and let them
go...its the lesser of two evils.
Bobby looks over to Walter for support,there is none--
BOBBY COLMBY
Look Walter if you give these guys
this money all their gonna do is
pay their rent with it, I know
their havin' a rough patch but give
it time--
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Time is money,and that's what their
costing me.Their not commercially
viable and they don't deserve
another album.Fire them now!!
VETERAN MUSIC EXECUTIVE
We can draw up the papers by the
end of this week...we should
contact the father.
Ron comes up with an idea.
RON ALEXENBURG
Lets say hypothetically we let them
do the album themselves, what could
happen?
WALTER YENTIKOFF
What are you talkin' about?
Bobby chimes in.
BOBBY COLMBY
They wanna do music,I say let them
do it...least it puts the
responsibility on them.
Walter and Ron look at one another.
BOBBY COLMBY
(RE:Alexenburg)
What about producing?
RON ALEXENBURG
All of it...leave it in their
hands, the responsibility is not on
us.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
You want them to write and produce
their own stuff without supervision
...that's out...
BOBBY COLMBY
...I would serve as producer if
need be...
RON ALEXENBURG
I mean lets be honest,their
talented...maybe we can salvage
this...if they only do the work,
themselves.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Lemme git this straight you wanna
let the brothers and the lil'
Jackson boy produce their own
album, something they never done
before?
CLOSE ON JACKSONS GOIN' PLACES ALBUM
RON ALEXENBURG
Yes, cut our losses...Walter, its
like this.They keep tellin' me they
wanna write their own stuff and
that's the reason they haven't done
the numbers we've been expecting...
so maybe....we should offer them
that ...make your own stuff and if
it flops, its clear where the blame
lies.
WEST COAST MUSIC EXECUTIVE
(RE:Yentikoff)
It then falls on them.
BOBBY COLMBY
Please, just don't fire them...at
least for Michael not the brothers.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Gimme some numbers..I'm not gonna
just give them money to blow
through...
Ron goes through paper work.
RON ALEXENBURG
This is a risk Walter...it could
really come back and bite Epic in
the ass...So, to be on the safe
side..the brothers have to be
responsible for their engineer
...their session musicians...
everything...put them in charge.
BOBBY COLMBY
Okay...Walter?
Yentikoff contemplates,lighting a cigarette.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Call them today and set it up Ron,
and Bobby?
Bobby looks over.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Ron's setting up the meeting but
I'm tell ya this...one more **** up
from them and I want their asses
fired.You hear me?!
INT.JOE JACKSON'S OFFICE-LATER
The phone RINGS.Joe answers it--its Alexenburg.There is no
anger but instead a strict obedience.Joseph nods to the
words being spoken to him.
JOE JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
Yes, we understand...
RON ALEXENBURG(ON THE PHONE)
We would like to see you in New
York Wednesday to discuss a few
things.
Joe smiles,but it quickly fades.
JOE JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
...its about the album?
RON ALEXENBURG(ON THE PHONE)
Look...the label wants to clear the
air with you.They are not happy,
neither is the West Coast office.
JOE JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
That's fine..but me and Michael are
gonna talk to you when we get there
about everything...
RON ALEXENBURG(ON THE PHONE)
Of course.
JOE JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
(silent,then--)
We know..and we know somethings
have to change.
RON ALEXENBURG(ON THE PHONE)
Joe? Lets not get into this now...
we'll see you in New York...discuss
are options for the next album...
Joe is silent,he is nervous by Alexenburg's tone--
JOE JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
Anything else?
RON ALEXENBURG(ON THE PHONE)
No...See you soon,Good Bye.
Joe hangs up the phone.He examines himself.Holding the phone
for a few seconds,he feels the weight of CBS on his
shoulder.
EXT.CBS RECORDS OFFICE-INT.LIMO-DAY(1976)
Michael stares out the window at the sweeping skyscrapers of
New York.Michael and Joe sit in the backseat,neither one
saying a word.The limousine approaches CBS Office,a dark
high-rise.
The car stops.
JOE JACKSON
(looking out the window)
Lets go...
Michael nods and gets out.
Huge gold letters of the CBS logo sit on top of the entry
way.Michael looks up.He follows his father with RON WEISNER
and FREDDY DE MANN inside the huge glass doors.
INT.CBS RECORDS OFFICE-CONFERENCE ROOM
Everyone sits down.A quiet still is in the room as the heads
of label wait patiently for this meeting to get underway.
Remnants of the catered lunch still lay on the table.
RON WEISNER
Thank you for meeting with us
today, Joe Jackson is the boys
manager and you all know Michael.
RON ALEXENBURG
Yes, very well... so what exactly
seems to be the issue...I know Joe
had a few.
FREDDY DE MANN
The Jacksons thinks it time that
CBS allows the brothers write and
produce their own music.They feel
if given the chance--
Joe interrupts.
JOE JACKSON
Mr. Yentikoff and Alexenburg,when
the boys signed the deal it was
agree that they could start doing
their own material.
Yentikoff listens but is unmoved.
RON ALEXENBURG
Which they have--
JOE JACKSON
--But not enough,the boys are doing
as good as they possibly can...
Yentikoff scoffs then shrugs.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
If this is the best they can do,
then I'm really sorry.
Michael sneaks looks at the room of executives.Sitting there
next to his father and managers,Michael watches Joe.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
(silent,then--)
Lemme be frank Mr. Jackson.Since
your sons have been on this label
they haven't had a hit,and the A&R
is gettin' antsy...I mean we're
starting to think that you guys may
have lost it when you came here...
you haven't had a number one in
almost 5 years and none of the
albums have placed on the charts.
We gave you the top producers,
Gamble and Huff, and still you
haven't produce anything worth
noticing.Now you tell me you think
your kids are ready to go it alone
and make their own stuff when they
can't even handle someone's else.
Joe is silent.
RON ALEXENBURG
Its becoming clear to the company
and the label maybe the Jacksons
are not commercially viable.
De Mann,Weisner and Joe look at one another.
JOE JACKSON
Naw,Naw,Naw...the boys just need an
opportunity.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
We've given them 2 already,we think
its best we look at our options...
BOBBY COLMBY
Wait a minute Walter, I believe in
these kids and like I said earlier
maybe we can come up with some type
of compromise...like what we
discussed earlier.
Executives talk amongst themselves--
RON WEISNER
We absolutely agree the brothers
are all unhappy with their current
status since joining CBS and we
think its best that they have
control over their next album.
OLDER MUSIC EXECUTIVE
(sarcastic)
"next album?"
Joe is nervous.Discussion continues on the matter,Walter
notices Michael at the other end,he is quiet--
WALTER YENTIKOFF
(pointing to Michael)
So are you unhappy?What do you
think?
Michael looks at Joseph.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(quiet,then--)
Mr. Yentikoff,me and my brothers
are unhappy with our success on
your label and we do feel it is
time for us to make our own album.
Walter nods.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Nothing so far has shown me that
you can?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Well if that's the way you feel
then maybe we need to move on.
Everyone looks at Michael--
MICHAEL JACKSON
Why continue to waste more of CBS
money on records that we both know
are not going to sell...
Joe grabs Michael's arm.
JOE JACKSON
MICHAEL!!??
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Let him finish.
Walter is intrigued.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Go 'head.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Mr. Yentikoff,let us make our own
album,then CBS will have a hit...
otherwise you won't.
BOBBY COLMBY
Walter,the kids are talented...
there's something there...I feel
it...
WALTER YENTIKOFF
To be honest,Michael....nothing you
done so far has warranted another
album but I like you ...Lil'
Jackson boy.
Michael smiles.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Fine.You are responsible along with
your brothers to do your next album
entirely on your own, then there's
no one to blame but yourselves.
MICHAEL JACKSON
That's fine.
Alexenburg thinks to himself.He taps Walter.
RON ALEXENBURG
(whispering to Yentikoff)
...the kid is smart,I think we
should offer him a deal...
Walter looks at Alexenburg.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Solo?
Alexenburg nods.Walter looks at Michael and thinks.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
But this is a business Michael and
I will be straight with you,if we
lose profits again on this album
with you and your brothers...I
would like to offer you the
opportunity to give us a solo album
at any time for CBS Records.
Joe is speechless.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(quiet,then--)
Can I think about it?
RON ALEXENBURG
Of course,certainly Michael...Good
speaking with you Joe,its settled.
INT.NYC HOTEL ROOM-DAY
Michael sits in a big armchair in front of the TV when
Joseph comes in.He approaches Michael,places his hand on his
shoulder.Michael looks up at Joseph.
JOE JACKSON
I know I don't say it often...but
Michael...I was real proud of the
way you handled yourself in there,
your a winner....I've always known
that,you hear me Michael? your a
winner...all my boys are,you hear
me?
Michael stares at the TV screen--
MICHAEL JACKSON
I hear you Joseph,I hear you.
FADE OUT:
fade in:
EXT.HAYVENHURST-DAY(1977)
A trove of GIRLS stand behind the menacing iron of the
gates.They peer between bars,looking on in anticipation.
POV OF THE DRIVEWAY:
Katherine's station wagon turns the corner and pulls into
the driveway.Randy gets out the car with Janet then Michael
appears.SCREAMS bellow from behind the gates as limbs thrust
out and wave at him.
Michael(holding groceries)stares back at the girls for a
moment.Confused by the whole thing but unfazed.Katherine
gracefully limps inside the house with Randy,Janet and
Michael following behind her.
Janet sticks out her tongue and shuts the door behind them.
INT.HAYVENHURST-SAME
Michael sits in the family studio,alone.He looks at the
mixing console,turns it on and puts on a pair of headphones.
He turns around in his chair,looks at his stack of albums in
the corner.
Michael grabs a record and puts it on the player when
suddenly the PHONE RINGS.
MICHAEL JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
(talking over music)
Hello?
Michael turns down the volume.
MICHAEL JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
Hello...Diana?
Michael turns the music off.
INT.BEDROOM-DIANA ROSS' HOUSE-DAY
Diana is on the telephone
DIANA ROSS
Hello Michael...
INT.HAYVENHURST-SAME
MICHAEL JACKSON
...I miss you...
DIANA ROSS(O.S)
(beat,then--)
...I do to,very much so...what are
up to?...
MICHAEL JACKSON
...Nuthin'...Hey?
DIANA ROSS(O.S)
Hmmh?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Your starting The Wiz in a few
weeks...
DIANA ROSS(O.S)
...Their almost done with the
preproduction so in a few weeks
everything's about to begin.But
they haven't cast everyone yet.
Michael smiles.
MICHAEL JACKSON
...Really? Who?...
DIANA ROSS(O.S)
...Scarecrow...
Michael sits up in his chair and listens intently.
DIANA ROSS(O.S)
...that's why I'm callin' you...
Michael--I want you to audition.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(silent,then--)
...I dunno about that...
DIANA ROSS(O.S)
...Why not?...
MICHAEL JACKSON
...Its through Motown,with Berry
and everything...I'm not sure
Joseph or my brothers are gonna
like it...
Michael thinks to himself.
FADE OUT:
fade in:
INT.MICHAEL AND RANDY'S BEDROOM-NIGHT
C.U-Michael's Playbill.
In STEPHANIE MILL'S cursive handwriting sits her phone
number in red ink.
Michael looks at his nightstand.He glances over at the PLAY
BILL from "The Wiz".Michael reaches for the rotary phone,
dialing her number.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Hello.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Um,Uh...Hi?
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Michael?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Yes.
Stephanie's tone changes.
INTERCUT:
The lamp turns on.
Stephanie sits up in her bed,phone chord wrapped around her
listening closely to the receiver.Small pink rollers cover
her head as she smiles.
STEPHANIE MILLS
I'm glad you called...I thought you
forgot.
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
No...I didn't forget.
STEPHANIE MILLS
I wished we could have talked more
...but I just finished a show...and
people were all around to...and you
had to go..but there was something
I wanted to say.
Michael sits up in his bed.
MICHAEL JACKSON
What?...What is it?
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
I think your fine.
Michael giggles.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Really?
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Yeah, I think you are so fine...I
wanna take you out...lemme take you
out.
MICHAEL JACKSON
No,I don't like to go out...people
act so crazy when I do....its
uncomfortable for me.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Its 'cause your so shy.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I can't ask a girl out....I'm too
embarrassed.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
But I'm askin' you.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I know.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
C'mon...I don't bite.
Michael smiles on the phone.
STEPHANIE MILLS
You smiling...aren't you?...I'm a
good girl,you can trust me...
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
I know but people just don't let me
be, So...no,I don't think so...I'm
sorry.
STEPHANIE MILLS
(silent,then--)
Alright...let's talk about
something else?
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
(thinking,then--)
Okay.Diana called me about the
Wiz...and they offered it to me and
I took it.
STEPHANIE MILLS
That's great Michael.I'm happy for
you.
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
Did you know about it?
Stephanie rolls her eyes - she can't stand Diana.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
...yeah I knew, I hear things...
MICHAEL JACKSON
...really,then why is Diana playing
Dorothy, your were Dorothy in the
show...you were wonderful...
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Well thank you...but Berry didn't
see it that way or neither did
Diana...she wanted the part and she
got it...that's all there is...
Stephanie sighs.
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
...I'm so sorry....I’m really sorry
about everything...you know with
Diana...and the movie...I think it
should have been you.
STEPHANIE MILLS
Me too...but anyways...what about
my offer?
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
...I dunno...
STEPHANIE MILLS
...C'mon Michael...
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
Umh...its just..I don't date...I
don't go out really.
STEPHANIE MILLS
Michael?
Michael holds the phone.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(silent,then--)
I should go...
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
(silent,then--)
...Jermaine told me...
Silence on the phone.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Hello, Michael?
MICHAEL JACKSON
You've seen Jermaine?
Michael's face searches for an answer.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
He signed me to Motown and
everything.
MICHAEL JACKSON
How is he?
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Good...he misses you a lot...he
talks about you all the time...
"Michael this" and "that"...Hazel
says he's real messed up over
everything that happened.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I know...
Michael thinks about his brother but he catches himself.
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
...I really should go,now...
Goodnight,Stephanie.
STEPHANIE MILLS
...Okay Michael...
FADE TO BLACK:
INT.HAYVENHURST-DAY(1977)
A stack of luggage sits at the front door heading to New
York as Michael and Latoya sit quietly.Latoya flips through
a Seventeen magazine,Michael reads the newspaper waiting
patiently.
Finally Katherine enters.
KATHERINE JACKSON
...Everything's ready...
The two look up.
KATHERINE JACKSON
Its time to go.
Latoya gets up,grabs her purse and heads out the door.Janet
stands there,waiting for them.Her eyes begin to water.Latoya
kisses her sister goodbye.
Michael notices Janet.He kneels down and hugs her tightly.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(RE:Janet)
...I'm gonna miss you
Janet starts to cry--Michael picks her up,holding her in his
arms.
INT.LIMO-POV MICHAEL-DAY(1977)
MICHAEL's P.O.V:the cityscape of Manhattan and its elite in
the early hours passes by.Pedestrians walk down the streets.
EXT.SUTTON PLACE-LATER
The limo pulls up outside the historic brown stone of Sutton
Place,a New York landmark.Michael and Latoya get out.The
DOORMEN gets their luggage quickly out the trunk as
Katherine graciously smiles.
Michael stands on the pavement,looking up,shoving his hands
inside his Mercedes Benz warm up jacket.
BILL BRAY(O.S)
C'mon Joker!
BILL BRAY looks around then gestures inside.They head
inside,Katherine leads the way.
INT.MICHAEL AND LATOYA'S APARTMENT-DAY(1977)
They come in.
A lavish apartment in Sutton Place overlooking Central Park
West.Simple high end furniture decorated with simplistic
ease.
Michael peers into the first bedroom.A bed with a very
feminine touch sits in the room with a mirror above it.He
stands there,idling for a moment,then moves to the next
door.The second bedroom is right next door,it contains a
simple twin bed and a desk.
LATOYA JACKSON
Mother...its beautiful.
KATHERINE JACKSON
Well,I wanted it to be nice for you
two...since your gonna be gone for
so long.
Michael walks around the apartment.He goes over to the
sliding doors,opens them.
CUT TO:
Michael walks out onto the balcony,looking out on to New
York City.He pulls out a camera and takes a picture.
FADE TO BLACK:
fade in:
INT.CAR-MORNING(1977)
Michael sits next to the window,staring out at New York
City.
INT.BROADWAY THEATER-AFTERNOON
MUSIC--The darkness of a Broadway theater,glowing from the
spotlights of the stage.It illuminates the faces of the
transfixed audience.
INT.BROADWAY THEATER-LATER
Its empty--except for two people.Sitting on the wooden
floor,LIZA MINNELLI watches Michael walk across the stage.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I luv it up here.
LIZA MINNELLI
I bet you do,sweet heart.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I think Broadway is the best but...
there once in a lifetime
performances...y'know...they can't
go back and make them better
...like in the movies...it must be
so wonderful...your dad was a
director.
LIZA MINNELLI
Daddy was good,but there are things
I would have changed in my own
life.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Me too...
Michael sits on the edge of the stage with the footlights.He
stares off into them,lost in his thoughts.
LIZA MINNELLI
What are your doing later?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Me and Latoya are gonna watch the
Twilight Zone...
LIZA MINNELLI
No sweetie....
Michael looks at her.
LIZA MINNELLI
This is New York, you can't be
coupe up in the house when the city
is alive, you got to experience it,
now Michael,you are coming with
me...to the greatest places on
earth.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(laughs,then--)
Disneyland?
LIZA MINNELLI
What?
MICHAEL JACKSON
(smiling)
That's Disneyland.
LIZA MINNELLI
Well its kind of like that
but--better.
MICHAEL JACKSON
What's its called?
Liza smirks.
LIZA MINNELLI
Its a surprise.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(skeptical)
Its a disco?
LIZA MINNELLI
Darling, this is "THE" DISCO.
INT.STUDIO 54-NIGHT
Neon flashes and WAR's "Galaxy" blares through the speakers.
The dance floor is thick with the rich and beautiful,moving
their bodies to the music.Liza and Michael move through the
crowd slowly(hand in hand),looking for someone.Finally Liza
spots them.
LIZA MINNELLI
Michael,this way!!
Holding tightly,Michael follows behind Liza.
Across the club,ANDY WARHOL sits with FRIENDS - Interview
Magazine staff,art brokers and socialites...stylish and
fashionably chain smoking.
They are going over various editorial layouts,advertisers
and photographs.
Andy sees Liza.
ANDY WARHOL
Gee,Liza..hey how are you? Who is
this?
LIZA MINNELLI
Andy,this is Michael...Michael,
this is Andy.
They shake hands.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Nice to meet you Andy Warhol.Are
you married?
Staff looks at Andy.
ANDY WARHOL
No...I'm not.
Andy smiles at Michael.He wears a fly collar white suit with
a gold chain around his neck.Michael's very sexy yet is
oblivious to his own looks.
ANDY WARHOL
Let's go up to the DJ booth...
MICHAEL JACKSON
(shy)
...okay...
ANDY WARHOL
(more shy)
....alright...
INT.STUDIO 54-DJ BOOTH
The lifeblood of Studio 54.The large booth is suspended
above the dance floor in a U-shape.Two turntables and rows
of albums line the counter.
People part as Michael and Andy emerge from the hall.Their
perched above the crowd.The moment is electric,its a vibe.
ANDY WARHOL
Play one.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I dunno...
ANDY WARHOL
Go 'head, play one.
The DJ steps aside.Michael goes through the stack of records
on the shelf.Browsing through the covers,he finds the one,
taking it out the jacket.
CLOSE ON RECORD PLAYER
The needle skips tediously along the black vinyl surface:
Diana Ross "THE BOSS" plays.
Michael with big headphones on,listens to the song.He gets
lost in the sound of Diana's voice.Michael looks out into
the crowd.
INT.STUDIO 54-LATER
Music continues.Michael and Liza disco dance on the
floor,moving to the groove.Lights strobe to the frenzy
when...
A large moon rises out of the ceiling,blinking,with a coke
spoon going up its nose.The crowd applauds like crazy as
Michael stares up in awe at the scene.
FADE TO BLACK:
INT.THE WIZ SET-DIANA'S TRAILER-DAY(1977)
Diana goes over her lines once more as her ASSISTANT stands
to the side.
DIANA ROSS
When's my call time?
DIANA'S ASSISTANT
Don't worry you got some time
....its not for another hour
YOUNG MAN'S VOICE(O.S)
(soft falsetto)
You shooting today?
Diana turns around,recognizing the voice:Its Michael,all
grown up.
DIANA ROSS
Michael,my baby! Come here.
Michael comes over to Diana at her vanity and leans against
it.They embrace.Diana sits back down,studies the script.
DIANA ROSS
God,I thought you were off today?
Lemme take you out to dinner.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I can't.I have to go back to the
apartment,Toya's with me...I don't
like to leave her alone.
Diana raises a brow.
DIANA ROSS
Latoya can take care of herself,
she say anything about Chico?
MICHAEL JACKSON
(laughing)
No.
DIANA ROSS
I was just telling Berry--
MICHAEL JACKSON
(interrupts)
You talked to Berry.
DIANA ROSS
Yeah,he's producing...he misses you
so much.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I know.
DIANA ROSS
Sit down.
Michael grabs a chair and pulls up next to her.
DIANA ROSS
Everyone is interested in you
Michael,they wanna know why your
doing this movie for one thing,I
tell 'em...its wonderful that your
here.Really.I'm so proud of you...
So,how are things?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Okay I guess.I went to a club a few
weeks ago called Studio 54.
DIANA ROSS
What did you think?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Most discos are the same but that
one...its different.
DIANA ROSS
I've been a few times...I love up
there in the booth.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Me too.
Diana looks at MJ.
DIANA ROSS
Where's Stephanie?
MJ looks at Diana.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Don't do that.
Diana smiles.Michael gets up and kisses her on the cheek.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Bye Diana.
INT.STUDIO 54-DOORS-NIGHT
Latoya,MJ and Liza walk towards the entrance.The music is
pounding as the lights seep through the double doors.The
lights shine on Latoya's cherry lip-gloss lips.Michael looks
at his sister as she leans on him.
LATOYA JACKSON
Are you sure?
MICHAEL JACKSON
C'mon 'Toya.
Latoya and Michael follow Liza.
DECADENT STUDIO 54 PARTY-
Stylish people disco dancing under the technicolor lights
....sweaty but beautiful...candy dishes of white powder
float around the room...BUSBOYS in satin shorts,thick gym
socks and sneakers balance trays on their hands moving
through the crowd...the song "Send me Forget me Nots" plays.
CUT TO:
Sitting on the velvet couches Latoya takes it all in.Her
eyes move curiously--
MICHAEL JACKSON
Isn't it amazing?!
LATOYA JACKSON
Mike?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Here,sit down.
Latoya looks around.A DISCO DANCER offers them the candy
bowl.In it is a array of PILLS and other drugs to take.
LATOYA JACKSON
No thank you.
(RE:Michael)
I thought you hated discos...
Michael shrugs.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I do but,there not like this...I've
been all around the world you know
...and I do hate discos...but this
is different Latoya...this is
something special...
LATOYA JACKSON
I dunno...
MICHAEL JACKSON
Just wait...Its so amazing when the
lights come down and the music is
thumping,its not like anything
you've seen before...'Toya its so
wonderful.
Looking over at Liza and Andy.
MICHAEL JACKSON
... and these people like Andy
Warhol...he's an artist,everyone is
so glamorous ...these are the
people I wanna be with you know, I
wanna be around all the stars...
Michael talks with the Warhol crowd--his new friends about
music with Latoya by his side.
LIZA MINNELLI
Have you two seen the Sanctum?
MICHAEL JACKSON
No...what is it?
Liza smiles.
INNER SANCTUM
WE HEAR "JUST A TOUCH OF LOVE" BY SLAVE:
Liza leads Michael and Latoya down the dark staircase,
feeling the walls for balance.They hear music playing,it
grows louder the closer they get.They make steps towards the
glowing inner sanctum.
INT.INNER SANCTUM-SAME
On the walls are floor length mirrors which reflect the
crowd of people here.The room is crimson red,making it hard
for them to make out things.
CROWD'S POV:
Through the crowd we can make out two bodies together on top
of a Lucite table(It's hard to make out exactly what's going
on).Some people shove to get a closer look.
Liza seats them with the onlookers,Michael and Latoya watch
in shock and disbelief.
LATOYA'S POV:
Two bodies entwined and moving in sync.
Sitting there amongst the spectators,Latoya cringes in her
seat at the closeness of this scene.The table rocks back and
forth from the brute force of thrusting,Latoya diverts her
gaze.
MICHAEL'S POV:
DISCO QUEEN lies on her back and a STUD gets on her(We can
hardly see what's happening)
Michael sits there watching the couple in between his bony
fingers,covering his face.
After while he feels comfortable. Michael lowers his hands
and watches the scene,eyes widening in amazement.
FADE TO BLACK:
INT.MICHAEL AND LATOYA'S APARTMENT-MORNING(1977)
Latoya goes in the kitchen,getting milk and Nesquik.She
measures a spoonful and puts it in a tall GLASS.Stirring the
glass, she lifts it to her lips when there's a KNOCK at the
door.
LATOYA JACKSON
Who could that be?
Another three knocks,Latoya sets down the glass.She rushes
to the door,flings it open--STEPHANIE MILLS stands in the
hallway.Latoya looks confused.
LATOYA JACKSON
(silent,then--)
Yes?
STEPHANIE MILLS
Hey 'Toya.
LATOYA JACKSON
Hey Stephanie, what are you doing
here?
STEPHANIE MILLS
Michael ask me to come.
LATOYA JACKSON
....I didn't know he had plans...
STEPHANIE MILLS
Oh well,I'm sorry.
LATOYA JACKSON
Pardon?
STEPHANIE MILLS
I'm sorry but...can I come in?
LATOYA JACKSON
Sure,Sure...come in, come in.
STEPHANIE MILLS
(going in)
Thanks.
Stephanie walks into the room,looking it over.
STEPHANIE MILLS
Where's Michael?
Latoya shuts the door,walking over to the couch.She takes a
seat next to Stephanie,crossing her legs.
LATOYA JACKSON
He's at work,on the movie set...he
won’t be back for awhile...when did
you get here?
STEPHANIE MILLS
Around six in the morning...
LATOYA JACKSON
Did you just fly in?
STEPHANIE MILLS
Yeah, I just got here.
LATOYA JACKSON
Lemme fix you some breakfast...
STEPHANIE MILLS
Okay.
Latoya goes back into the kitchenette,reaching into the
refrigerator.She pulls out a carton of eggs.She places them
on the counter as she gets the bacon.
Latoya turns on the stove and starts to make breakfast.
INT.MICHAEL AND LATOYA'S APARTMENT-LATER
The two go into the dining room.BACON SIZZLES...the faint
voices of Latoya and Stephanie talking fill the room.
STEPHANIE MILLS
So how's the movie?
LATOYA JACKSON
Great, its really good...its
amazing all the people working on
the film,dancers and musicians.
STEPHANIE MILLS
How's he doing?
LATOYA JACKSON
Mike is okay.....I guess.
STEPHANIE MILLS
(smirking)
You guess?
LATOYA JACKSON
He met some people...
(beat)
...I don't care so much for them.
Stephanie looks confused,searching Latoya's face.She fumbles
the mug in her hands,clicking against her fingernails.Latoya
looks in the kitchen.
LATOYA JACKSON
'xcuse for one moment.
She quickly goes to the stove,turning off the bacon and
eggs.Latoya plates the food,bringing it out to the table.
STEPHANIE MILLS
Who?
LATOYA JACKSON
(never heard of)
Andy Warhol,Halston--
(beat)
...a few others,they do a funny
white powder.
Stephanie reaches for her hands,holding them in hers.
STEPHANIE MILLS
Cocaine?
Latoya sits down.
LATOYA JACKSON
What?
STEPHANIE MILLS
(shocked)
...its Cocaine,you've seen them do
it?
LATOYA JACKSON
..all the time...what is that? we
were wondering how they had so much
energy...
STEPHANIE MILLS
Latoya,that's drugs...dope,smack?!
you know?
Latoya looks puzzled.
STEPHANIE MILLS
Jesus...Latoya that's dangerous..
you didn't take any did you?
LATOYA JACKSON
No!
STEPHANIE MILLS
No reefer,anything?
LATOYA JACKSON
No.Never.
STEPHANIE MILLS
(silence,then--)
Did Michael?
LATOYA JACKSON
No.I don't think so.I'm just
concerned that's all,I'm glad your
here.
FADE TO BLACK:
Someone told me they couldn't open it so this is the 1st half from the 70s to NYC:
INT.MICHAEL AND RANDY'S BEDROOM-EARLY MORNING(1976)
CLOSE SHOT
A handsome,tall yet thin black teenage boy MICHAEL JACKSON
(18)buttons the last button on his vest.MJ steps over books,
clothes,papers and clutter.He goes into the closet,reaches
in and gets a pair of penny loafers.He puts them on.
EXT.HAYVENHURST-EARLY MORNING
A heavily guarded mock Tudor estate sits behind tall wrought
iron gates as a black Lincoln Town car pulls up and the
gates open.Standing behind the ominous gates SECURITY
patrols the vicinity.
INT.HAYVENHURST-JANET AND LATOYA'S BEDROOM-MORNING
Baby face JANET JACKSON(10)sleeps with her doll babies and
stuffed animals with fluffy pillows by her side in a
canopied bed.Michael enters...walks around the bed and
kisses Janet.
MJ moves to a pink velvet chair in the corner and sits.His
long feet with white socks on fills the frame.Michael
(silhouetted by morning light)stares at Janet.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Dunk? Are you awake?
JANET JACKSON
(sleepy)
No Michael.
Michael sits there.He picks up a Ebony Junior magazine,flips
through some pages.
EXT.HAYVENHURST-EARLY MORNING
The Lincoln Town car pulls up in front Hayvenhurst.STEVE
MANNING(early 20s)and BILL BRAY get out.Manning goes toward
the house as Bray follows.
INT.HALL-HAYVENHURST-SAME
Michael walks down the hall.He's reading a newspaper as he
turns the corner.
INT.HAYVENHURST-LIVING ROOM-DAY(1976)
Manning and Bray and enter.The home is elegantly furnished
and decorated in airy comfortable pastels.Manning sits on
the couch while Bray stands.Michael comes in.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Hi Bray.
BILL BRAY
'Eh Joker.
Steve Manning(a awkward black man with large glasses)reads
off a schedule to Michael.MJ nods,reaches into his pocket
and takes out a piece of candy.He offers Manning some.
STEVE MANNING
No,thank you.
(a beat)
You have an interview.Today,its
around 2 or 3 o'clock? I have to
double check.Make sure to be back
by then.
MICHAEL JACKSON
With who?
STEVE MANNING
Not sure.Some music magazine.
MICHAEL JACKSON
What are the numbers looking like?
STEVE MANNING
I dunno Mike.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Could you get a copy of Billboard.
STEVE MANNING
Sure.
EXT.HAYVENHURST-EARLY MORNING
MJ hurries down the steps to the car,carrying library books.
Bray escorts Michael into the Lincoln Town car.The car pulls
off down the driveway.
FADE OUT:
FADE IN:
EXT.HAYVENHURST-DAY(1976)
A beautiful Rolls Royce sits in the driveway.RANDY JACKSON
(15)with bare feet plays with his dog(a German Shepherd)as
Janet(wearing one of her siblings old t-shirts)rides her
bike up and down the yard.
RANDY JACKSON
Janet.
Randy watches her zoom past before heading inside.He walks
past LATOYA JACKSON(20)sweet yet quietly sexy lounging by
the pool.
INT.HAYVENHURST-SAME
Randy heads into the kitchen.He goes to the refrigerator:
C.U-Homemade desserts and serving platters covered in
plastic wrap.Pushing around a carton of milk,he finds a
pitcher of lemonade.
Randy pours himself a glass drinking it down in one gulp.He
pours another,puts the pitcher back and heads upstairs.
INT.MICHAEL AND RANDY'S BEDROOM-DAY(1976)
Michael sits on his bed,drawing.He picks up a eraser,brushes
the pad and continues.Watching his older brother,Randy
enters and sits down on his bed.
RANDY JACKSON
Did you see the review?
MICHAEL JACKSON
(sketching)
Not yet.I'm waitin' for Steve to
bring me a copy of Billboard.
RANDY JACKSON
There not selling like they use to
Mike.The album, Goin Places was the
worst Mike,it didn't even crack the
top 50....what are we gonna do?
Michael looks up from the pad.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I dunno.
Continues to draw.
MICHAEL JACKSON
We need to write our own stuff,I
mean we're making progress but its
not there... I just think it wasn't
us you know...right album but wrong
artist....its not our sound...we
gotta find our sound,what makes us
unique.
RANDY JACKSON
Did you do your interview?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Yeah.Same ole' same ole'.
RANDY JACKSON
Also.Mother said dinner's ready.
Michael slides out of the bed following his brother.
INT.HAYVENHURST-DINING ROOM-EVENING
A weeknight dinner at Hayvenhurst as the Jackson kids sit
around the table.A huge spread of soul food lines the table.
Clutching hands,KATHERINE JACKSON leads grace as everyone
keeps their eyes closed.
Michael and Latoya mouth the Jehovah's Witness prayer.
KATHERINE JACKSON
Janet,slow down.The food is not
going anywhere.
(RE:MJ)
Now Michael,is that all you gonna
eat?
MICHAEL JACKSON
(poking his collard greens)
I'm not hungry.
KATHERINE JACKSON
Latoya,what time is your photo
shoot tomorrow? Because if its not
too late maybe we can go shopping.
Randy passes a bowl of yams,Michael refills Janet's glass.
LATOYA JACKSON
I'm not sure but I have to check.
MICHAEL JACKSON
What time are you going?
INT.HAYVENHURST-NIGHT
AFTER DINNER:
Michael and Randy go into the kitchen,clearing plates.Latoya
follows them.
LATOYA JACKSON
Hand me the plates.
Latoya washes dishes with her manicure nails.She scrubs the
plates handing them off to Randy.Randy dries the plates,then
hands them to Michael,who puts them in the cabinets.Janet
watches her older siblings clean the kitchen while she puts
away silverware.
INT.LIVING ROOM-HAYVENHURST-LATER
Michael sits on the floor with Janet(Indian style).She curls
up underneath him,lays her head on Michael's shoulder.Latoya
sits on the couch,watching TV.
MJ clicks quickly through the channels then stops.
THE TV--
THE FREDDIE PRINZE SHOW on ABC.
Katherine comes in.
KATHERINE JACKSON
...its time for bed now...
Randy and Michael(carrying Janet)head upstairs for bed.
RANDY JACKSON
(kissing her,then--)
'Night Toya.
LATOYA JACKSON
(re:Randy)
Good Night,Randy.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(kissing her,then--)
Good Night,'toya.
LATOYA JACKSON
(re:Michael)
'Night Mike.
Latoya kisses Janet,still sleep.With a big yawn,Michael
climbs the carpeted stairs up their beds.
INT.MICHAEL AND RANDY'S BEDROOM-MIDNIGHT
Michael lays in bed,sketching in a large artist's pad.Sound
asleep,Randy hears nothing.
C.U-Artist models,textbooks,awards,plants,small figurines,
cartoon characters,line their shelves.Though silent,the
sound of pencil scratching paper fills the room.
Its 12:00 a.m.Michael puts the pad away and turns off the
lights.
EXT.HAYVENHURST-NIGHT
Suddenly the pitch black is cut,a car turns in.The glow of
headlights illuminates the driveway.A Mercedes pulls into
park.Getting out with a briefcase JOE JACKSON heads inside.
INT.HAYVENHURST-SAME
Joe enters.He hangs up his coat and hat,places his briefcase
on the floor.Joe looks in the den,no kids.The house is quiet
now.Looking into the kitchen he sees Katherine.
INT.KITCHEN-HAYVENHURST
Katherine stands at the sink,washing a little saucer.She
finishes as Joseph comes in.Katherine looks at his face,she
searches it for an answer to his whereabouts.There is none.
With a sly smile,Joe kisses her.
JOE JACKSON
(smirking)
Whats for dinner Katie?
KATHERINE JACKSON
(forlorn)
Want me to fix you a plate?
Joe sits down.
JOE JACKSON
Okay Katie.
Katherine begins to fix Joe's food.She heats it up and
serves him.Katherine sips her tea as Joe eats his meal.
CUT TO:
Waiting till he's done,she removes the plate.Joe wipes his
mouth.
JOE JACKSON
Where's Michael?
Katherine looks up from her cup--
KATHERINE JACKSON
(quiet,then--)
...He's sleep Joe....
JOE JACKSON
...I need to talk to him...
Katherine shakes her head at her husband.
KATHERINE JACKSON
...Can't it wait till morning...
JOE JACKSON
No, I gotta talk to the boy now.
INT.HALL-HAYVENHURST-SAME
Joe passes Janet and Latoya's bedroom and sees the light
on.Joe continues and stops at a door at the end of the
hall.He knocks softly on the door.
Joseph hesitates entering his sons' room.Finally,he goes
inside.Joe opens the door to see Michael and Randy.Joe
stands there and stares at Michael.
After a few moments,he takes a seat on the edge of the
bed.The weight of his presence wakes Michael.Opening his
eyes,Michael stares back at Joseph's waiting gaze.
JOE JACKSON
...we need to talk...
INT.HAYVENHURST-KITCHEN-SAME
CLOSE ON A WRINKLE BROWN PAPER BAG
Underneath a box of DOUGHNUTS,there the shiny glaze kind.
Michael stares at Joe,their relationship is not a typical
father and son's.Michael's eyes read Joseph's face,searching
more for his intentions rather than affection.
Slowly,he pushes the box of doughnuts toward Michael.
JOE JACKSON
(pushing the box)
C'mon,there your favorite.
His doe eyes stare back at Joseph.Michael is skeptical,he's
too sleepy to argue with him.Looking at the box,Michael
picks up the doughnut.
MICHAEL JACKSON
What is it,Joseph?
JOE JACKSON
...some stuff with CBS...
Michael looks up from his doughnut--
MICHAEL JACKSON
...What is it? What's wrong?...
JOE JACKSON
...Alexenburg is not happy with the
sales...its like I keep tellin'
them to let us write our own
stuff...
Michael(resting his elbows on the table)shakes his head.
MICHAEL JACKSON
...the business people have to
understand what's going on...they
wanna sell music like we make
it...that's all...
JOE JACKSON
...I'm worried Michael...
MICHAEL JACKSON
(sighs,then--)
...What do you want me to do?...
Joe looks at his son.
JOE JACKSON
...Come to New York with me....
MICHAEL JACKSON
When?
JOE JACKSON
Few days.
Michael thinks for a second.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Fine, Joseph.
FADE OUT:
FADE IN:
EXT.CALIFORNIA STREET-DAY
A bright colored CADILLAC SEVILLE travels down a beautiful
sun drenched neighborhood.
EXT.ENCINO,CALIFORNIA-DAY
Rolling up onto the sidewalk,the car pulls up to huge
menacing iron gates.Slowly the automatic car window goes
down.
HANGING OUT THE CAR WINDOW -
The DRIVER reaches towards the three button intercom
system.Hitting the "TALK" button, the sound of STATIC is
interrupted by a voice.
SECURITY GUARD (O.S.)
(militant)
Yes.
DRIVER
(speaking into the intercom)
Hello....yes, my name is SAM
BROWN.I have business with Mr.JOE
JACKSON and MICHAEL JACKSON.Their
expecting me.
Some silence,then--
SECURITY GUARD (O.S.)
(militant)
Your clear.
Slowly the menacing gates open.Sam leans back into his car
as the automatic window goes up.The bright colored Caddy
heads down the drive to the beautiful Tudor home.
INT/EXT.HAYVENHURST-A FEW MINUTES LATER
Sam pulls up.No one is around,making the large house seem
more like uninhabited home.Sam gets out of his car,he's a
stocky dark-skinned black man with a noticeable gap in his
smile.His Afro is a little matted but still fine.
With his briefcase in hand,he goes to the door.
ECU-DOORBELL:Sam's finger presses the button.The front door
opens--
SAM BROWN
Hello?
Looking down,its Janet.
JANET JACKSON
Hello...
SAM BROWN
(looking into the house)
Is one of your brothers home?
JANET JACKSON
Yes...
He plays along.
SAM BROWN
OK, which one?
JANET JACKSON
"Which one", what?
SAM BROWN
(looking down at Janet)
Which one of your brothers is home?
Janet turns around and looks inside--
JANET JACKSON
MARLON,RANDY and MIKE.
SAM BROWN
Mike?....Michael,he's home?
JANET JACKSON
(hanging on the door)
Yes...we were in the den watchin'
TV.
Suddenly the sound of FOOTSTEPS enter the room,they approach
the front door.Their pacing and rhythm is different,their
older.
Reaching for the front door...
- OVER JANET'S SHOULDER
MICHAEL appears in the doorway wearing an old J5 t-shirt and
jeans.Michael is much older than the last time Sam has seen
him.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Sam?
SAM BROWN
Michael,your sister here wouldn't
lemme in the house...
MICHAEL JACKSON
(laughing)
She's not suppose to unless we say
so...C'mon in,JOSEPH is waiting for
you in his office.
Janet walks ahead of Michael and Sam--running off into the
den,they need to talk business.
SAM BROWN
SO...what's goin' on Mike?...Why
Joseph call me here, give it to me
straight.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Sam...its the last album...it just
wasn't the right sound for us...
maybe its time we explored our
options... we don't want Kenny and
Leon to think they're doin'
anything wrong.
Sam stops.
SAM BROWN
Michael...if you think that's
best...then I can't tell ya any
different.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I don't wanna get involve...talk to
Joseph.
Sam sighs.
SAM BROWN
(shaking his head)
Alright, you lead the way this is
your place.
MICHAEL JACKSON
OK, Sam...
INT/EXT.HAYVENHURST-CONTINUOUS
Sam Brown follows Michael through the huge home.Its well
maintained,Katherine's presence is everywhere in it.
Sam glances at all the awards the brothers have earned over
the years.Its almost like a mini shrine to all their
achievements.They stop.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(pointing to the door)
Here you go.
Sam looks at Michael--
SAM BROWN
(stern)
'member what I said.
Michael nods before heading back down the hall.
INT.JOE JACKSON'S OFFICE-CONTINUOUS
An ultra modern home office reflective of the California
style.Amongst typical office supplies sits an extremely over
stuffed Rolodex,pen holder,rotary phone and a 24kt. gold
lion sprawled across the edge.
Sam enters,Joe spins around--
JOE JACKSON
Sam, Sam Brown...have a seat.
Sam is anticipating a different reaction but still this one
is welcomed.
SAM BROWN
Joe, man...I flew all the way out
here from Philly..so, what's goin'
on...Leon and Kenny are hearing
things from the A&R people on the
West Coast...and it ain't good
brotha... somethin' 'bout sales?
JOE JACKSON
That last record was a flop...my
boys are stars...they can't be
havin' this...they got mouths to
feed.
SAM BROWN
(leaning back in his seat)
Look, this is over our heads
now...the "suits" are involved.
Joe goes through his papers.
JOE JACKSON
You talk to ALEXENBERG?
SAM BROWN
Yeah...he believes in you, so does
Leon and Kenny and COLMBY...but
its--
JOE JACKSON
Its not believin' that we need...
the boys need to do their own stuff
and that's all there is to it.
Sam folds his hands.
SAM BROWN
So..what are you gonna do?
JOE JACKSON
I guess its time to renegotiate
...we need to move on.
SAM BROWN
I'm just lettin' you know that
Alexenberg is gonna call you...
YENTIKOFF is on the war path,
givin' you a heads up..somethin'
might happen...
JOE JACKSON
Like what?
SAM BROWN
I dunno...but keep your ear to the
ground.
INT.CBS/EPIC RECORDS OFFICE BOARD ROOM-DAY
CBS EXECUTIVES in their leisure suits and all black sit
around the massive table going over the current artist on
the label.
Sitting at the head is a fierce wild man WALTER YENTIKOFF
(mid 40s)runs CBS like a musical empire with slicked back
hair,leisure suit and a gold chain.
On the other side of him is RON ALEXENBURG(mid 20s)young
music executive and right arm to Yentikoff.Alexenburg
listens to the numbers on albums when The Jacksons come up.
VETERAN MUSIC EXECUTIVE
The Jacksons are doing extremely
poor in sales Walter...its actually
the worst I've seen from them on
this last album.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
(sarcastic)
Well...there goes another one.
RON ALEXENBURG
..you know, I never would have
thought we would be having this
conversation about this particular
group...
YOUNG MUSIC EXECUTIVE
This last one only placed at number
64 on the POP charts...look,we
conferred with the West Coast reps
...the brothers haven't had a hit
since they left Motown...its
startin' to look like they left
their talent their too.
BOBBY COLMBY
They're not done.
Sitting across from Alexenburg and Yentikoff is BOBBY
COLMBY(late 20s)music executive for CBS.The only minority in
the room.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Ever since they did that Vegas
kitschy shit its been down hill and
I told you not to hire their asses.
WEST COAST MUSIC EXECUTIVE
The West Coast wants to buy them
out of their contract.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Its time to do...what we need to
do...the Jacksons are not...
commercially viable any longer...
its over.
Executive writes on legal pad.
CBS MUSIC EXECUTIVE
"Over"?
Bobby is speechless.
BOBBY COLMBY
You want me to fire...fire The
Jacksons?!
RON ALEXENBURG
Offer them a deal and let them
go...its the lesser of two evils.
Bobby looks over to Walter for support,there is none--
BOBBY COLMBY
Look Walter if you give these guys
this money all their gonna do is
pay their rent with it, I know
their havin' a rough patch but give
it time--
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Time is money,and that's what their
costing me.Their not commercially
viable and they don't deserve
another album.Fire them now!!
VETERAN MUSIC EXECUTIVE
We can draw up the papers by the
end of this week...we should
contact the father.
Ron comes up with an idea.
RON ALEXENBURG
Lets say hypothetically we let them
do the album themselves, what could
happen?
WALTER YENTIKOFF
What are you talkin' about?
Bobby chimes in.
BOBBY COLMBY
They wanna do music,I say let them
do it...least it puts the
responsibility on them.
Walter and Ron look at one another.
BOBBY COLMBY
(RE:Alexenburg)
What about producing?
RON ALEXENBURG
All of it...leave it in their
hands, the responsibility is not on
us.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
You want them to write and produce
their own stuff without supervision
...that's out...
BOBBY COLMBY
...I would serve as producer if
need be...
RON ALEXENBURG
I mean lets be honest,their
talented...maybe we can salvage
this...if they only do the work,
themselves.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Lemme git this straight you wanna
let the brothers and the lil'
Jackson boy produce their own
album, something they never done
before?
CLOSE ON JACKSONS GOIN' PLACES ALBUM
RON ALEXENBURG
Yes, cut our losses...Walter, its
like this.They keep tellin' me they
wanna write their own stuff and
that's the reason they haven't done
the numbers we've been expecting...
so maybe....we should offer them
that ...make your own stuff and if
it flops, its clear where the blame
lies.
WEST COAST MUSIC EXECUTIVE
(RE:Yentikoff)
It then falls on them.
BOBBY COLMBY
Please, just don't fire them...at
least for Michael not the brothers.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Gimme some numbers..I'm not gonna
just give them money to blow
through...
Ron goes through paper work.
RON ALEXENBURG
This is a risk Walter...it could
really come back and bite Epic in
the ass...So, to be on the safe
side..the brothers have to be
responsible for their engineer
...their session musicians...
everything...put them in charge.
BOBBY COLMBY
Okay...Walter?
Yentikoff contemplates,lighting a cigarette.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Call them today and set it up Ron,
and Bobby?
Bobby looks over.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Ron's setting up the meeting but
I'm tell ya this...one more **** up
from them and I want their asses
fired.You hear me?!
INT.JOE JACKSON'S OFFICE-LATER
The phone RINGS.Joe answers it--its Alexenburg.There is no
anger but instead a strict obedience.Joseph nods to the
words being spoken to him.
JOE JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
Yes, we understand...
RON ALEXENBURG(ON THE PHONE)
We would like to see you in New
York Wednesday to discuss a few
things.
Joe smiles,but it quickly fades.
JOE JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
...its about the album?
RON ALEXENBURG(ON THE PHONE)
Look...the label wants to clear the
air with you.They are not happy,
neither is the West Coast office.
JOE JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
That's fine..but me and Michael are
gonna talk to you when we get there
about everything...
RON ALEXENBURG(ON THE PHONE)
Of course.
JOE JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
(silent,then--)
We know..and we know somethings
have to change.
RON ALEXENBURG(ON THE PHONE)
Joe? Lets not get into this now...
we'll see you in New York...discuss
are options for the next album...
Joe is silent,he is nervous by Alexenburg's tone--
JOE JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
Anything else?
RON ALEXENBURG(ON THE PHONE)
No...See you soon,Good Bye.
Joe hangs up the phone.He examines himself.Holding the phone
for a few seconds,he feels the weight of CBS on his
shoulder.
EXT.CBS RECORDS OFFICE-INT.LIMO-DAY(1976)
Michael stares out the window at the sweeping skyscrapers of
New York.Michael and Joe sit in the backseat,neither one
saying a word.The limousine approaches CBS Office,a dark
high-rise.
The car stops.
JOE JACKSON
(looking out the window)
Lets go...
Michael nods and gets out.
Huge gold letters of the CBS logo sit on top of the entry
way.Michael looks up.He follows his father with RON WEISNER
and FREDDY DE MANN inside the huge glass doors.
INT.CBS RECORDS OFFICE-CONFERENCE ROOM
Everyone sits down.A quiet still is in the room as the heads
of label wait patiently for this meeting to get underway.
Remnants of the catered lunch still lay on the table.
RON WEISNER
Thank you for meeting with us
today, Joe Jackson is the boys
manager and you all know Michael.
RON ALEXENBURG
Yes, very well... so what exactly
seems to be the issue...I know Joe
had a few.
FREDDY DE MANN
The Jacksons thinks it time that
CBS allows the brothers write and
produce their own music.They feel
if given the chance--
Joe interrupts.
JOE JACKSON
Mr. Yentikoff and Alexenburg,when
the boys signed the deal it was
agree that they could start doing
their own material.
Yentikoff listens but is unmoved.
RON ALEXENBURG
Which they have--
JOE JACKSON
--But not enough,the boys are doing
as good as they possibly can...
Yentikoff scoffs then shrugs.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
If this is the best they can do,
then I'm really sorry.
Michael sneaks looks at the room of executives.Sitting there
next to his father and managers,Michael watches Joe.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
(silent,then--)
Lemme be frank Mr. Jackson.Since
your sons have been on this label
they haven't had a hit,and the A&R
is gettin' antsy...I mean we're
starting to think that you guys may
have lost it when you came here...
you haven't had a number one in
almost 5 years and none of the
albums have placed on the charts.
We gave you the top producers,
Gamble and Huff, and still you
haven't produce anything worth
noticing.Now you tell me you think
your kids are ready to go it alone
and make their own stuff when they
can't even handle someone's else.
Joe is silent.
RON ALEXENBURG
Its becoming clear to the company
and the label maybe the Jacksons
are not commercially viable.
De Mann,Weisner and Joe look at one another.
JOE JACKSON
Naw,Naw,Naw...the boys just need an
opportunity.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
We've given them 2 already,we think
its best we look at our options...
BOBBY COLMBY
Wait a minute Walter, I believe in
these kids and like I said earlier
maybe we can come up with some type
of compromise...like what we
discussed earlier.
Executives talk amongst themselves--
RON WEISNER
We absolutely agree the brothers
are all unhappy with their current
status since joining CBS and we
think its best that they have
control over their next album.
OLDER MUSIC EXECUTIVE
(sarcastic)
"next album?"
Joe is nervous.Discussion continues on the matter,Walter
notices Michael at the other end,he is quiet--
WALTER YENTIKOFF
(pointing to Michael)
So are you unhappy?What do you
think?
Michael looks at Joseph.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(quiet,then--)
Mr. Yentikoff,me and my brothers
are unhappy with our success on
your label and we do feel it is
time for us to make our own album.
Walter nods.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Nothing so far has shown me that
you can?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Well if that's the way you feel
then maybe we need to move on.
Everyone looks at Michael--
MICHAEL JACKSON
Why continue to waste more of CBS
money on records that we both know
are not going to sell...
Joe grabs Michael's arm.
JOE JACKSON
MICHAEL!!??
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Let him finish.
Walter is intrigued.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Go 'head.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Mr. Yentikoff,let us make our own
album,then CBS will have a hit...
otherwise you won't.
BOBBY COLMBY
Walter,the kids are talented...
there's something there...I feel
it...
WALTER YENTIKOFF
To be honest,Michael....nothing you
done so far has warranted another
album but I like you ...Lil'
Jackson boy.
Michael smiles.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Fine.You are responsible along with
your brothers to do your next album
entirely on your own, then there's
no one to blame but yourselves.
MICHAEL JACKSON
That's fine.
Alexenburg thinks to himself.He taps Walter.
RON ALEXENBURG
(whispering to Yentikoff)
...the kid is smart,I think we
should offer him a deal...
Walter looks at Alexenburg.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
Solo?
Alexenburg nods.Walter looks at Michael and thinks.
WALTER YENTIKOFF
But this is a business Michael and
I will be straight with you,if we
lose profits again on this album
with you and your brothers...I
would like to offer you the
opportunity to give us a solo album
at any time for CBS Records.
Joe is speechless.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(quiet,then--)
Can I think about it?
RON ALEXENBURG
Of course,certainly Michael...Good
speaking with you Joe,its settled.
INT.NYC HOTEL ROOM-DAY
Michael sits in a big armchair in front of the TV when
Joseph comes in.He approaches Michael,places his hand on his
shoulder.Michael looks up at Joseph.
JOE JACKSON
I know I don't say it often...but
Michael...I was real proud of the
way you handled yourself in there,
your a winner....I've always known
that,you hear me Michael? your a
winner...all my boys are,you hear
me?
Michael stares at the TV screen--
MICHAEL JACKSON
I hear you Joseph,I hear you.
FADE OUT:
fade in:
EXT.HAYVENHURST-DAY(1977)
A trove of GIRLS stand behind the menacing iron of the
gates.They peer between bars,looking on in anticipation.
POV OF THE DRIVEWAY:
Katherine's station wagon turns the corner and pulls into
the driveway.Randy gets out the car with Janet then Michael
appears.SCREAMS bellow from behind the gates as limbs thrust
out and wave at him.
Michael(holding groceries)stares back at the girls for a
moment.Confused by the whole thing but unfazed.Katherine
gracefully limps inside the house with Randy,Janet and
Michael following behind her.
Janet sticks out her tongue and shuts the door behind them.
INT.HAYVENHURST-SAME
Michael sits in the family studio,alone.He looks at the
mixing console,turns it on and puts on a pair of headphones.
He turns around in his chair,looks at his stack of albums in
the corner.
Michael grabs a record and puts it on the player when
suddenly the PHONE RINGS.
MICHAEL JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
(talking over music)
Hello?
Michael turns down the volume.
MICHAEL JACKSON(ON THE PHONE)
Hello...Diana?
Michael turns the music off.
INT.BEDROOM-DIANA ROSS' HOUSE-DAY
Diana is on the telephone
DIANA ROSS
Hello Michael...
INT.HAYVENHURST-SAME
MICHAEL JACKSON
...I miss you...
DIANA ROSS(O.S)
(beat,then--)
...I do to,very much so...what are
up to?...
MICHAEL JACKSON
...Nuthin'...Hey?
DIANA ROSS(O.S)
Hmmh?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Your starting The Wiz in a few
weeks...
DIANA ROSS(O.S)
...Their almost done with the
preproduction so in a few weeks
everything's about to begin.But
they haven't cast everyone yet.
Michael smiles.
MICHAEL JACKSON
...Really? Who?...
DIANA ROSS(O.S)
...Scarecrow...
Michael sits up in his chair and listens intently.
DIANA ROSS(O.S)
...that's why I'm callin' you...
Michael--I want you to audition.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(silent,then--)
...I dunno about that...
DIANA ROSS(O.S)
...Why not?...
MICHAEL JACKSON
...Its through Motown,with Berry
and everything...I'm not sure
Joseph or my brothers are gonna
like it...
Michael thinks to himself.
FADE OUT:
fade in:
INT.MICHAEL AND RANDY'S BEDROOM-NIGHT
C.U-Michael's Playbill.
In STEPHANIE MILL'S cursive handwriting sits her phone
number in red ink.
Michael looks at his nightstand.He glances over at the PLAY
BILL from "The Wiz".Michael reaches for the rotary phone,
dialing her number.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Hello.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Um,Uh...Hi?
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Michael?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Yes.
Stephanie's tone changes.
INTERCUT:
The lamp turns on.
Stephanie sits up in her bed,phone chord wrapped around her
listening closely to the receiver.Small pink rollers cover
her head as she smiles.
STEPHANIE MILLS
I'm glad you called...I thought you
forgot.
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
No...I didn't forget.
STEPHANIE MILLS
I wished we could have talked more
...but I just finished a show...and
people were all around to...and you
had to go..but there was something
I wanted to say.
Michael sits up in his bed.
MICHAEL JACKSON
What?...What is it?
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
I think your fine.
Michael giggles.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Really?
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Yeah, I think you are so fine...I
wanna take you out...lemme take you
out.
MICHAEL JACKSON
No,I don't like to go out...people
act so crazy when I do....its
uncomfortable for me.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Its 'cause your so shy.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I can't ask a girl out....I'm too
embarrassed.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
But I'm askin' you.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I know.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
C'mon...I don't bite.
Michael smiles on the phone.
STEPHANIE MILLS
You smiling...aren't you?...I'm a
good girl,you can trust me...
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
I know but people just don't let me
be, So...no,I don't think so...I'm
sorry.
STEPHANIE MILLS
(silent,then--)
Alright...let's talk about
something else?
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
(thinking,then--)
Okay.Diana called me about the
Wiz...and they offered it to me and
I took it.
STEPHANIE MILLS
That's great Michael.I'm happy for
you.
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
Did you know about it?
Stephanie rolls her eyes - she can't stand Diana.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
...yeah I knew, I hear things...
MICHAEL JACKSON
...really,then why is Diana playing
Dorothy, your were Dorothy in the
show...you were wonderful...
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Well thank you...but Berry didn't
see it that way or neither did
Diana...she wanted the part and she
got it...that's all there is...
Stephanie sighs.
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
...I'm so sorry....I’m really sorry
about everything...you know with
Diana...and the movie...I think it
should have been you.
STEPHANIE MILLS
Me too...but anyways...what about
my offer?
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
...I dunno...
STEPHANIE MILLS
...C'mon Michael...
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
Umh...its just..I don't date...I
don't go out really.
STEPHANIE MILLS
Michael?
Michael holds the phone.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(silent,then--)
I should go...
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
(silent,then--)
...Jermaine told me...
Silence on the phone.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Hello, Michael?
MICHAEL JACKSON
You've seen Jermaine?
Michael's face searches for an answer.
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
He signed me to Motown and
everything.
MICHAEL JACKSON
How is he?
STEPHANIE MILLS(O.S)
Good...he misses you a lot...he
talks about you all the time...
"Michael this" and "that"...Hazel
says he's real messed up over
everything that happened.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I know...
Michael thinks about his brother but he catches himself.
MICHAEL JACKSON(O.S)
...I really should go,now...
Goodnight,Stephanie.
STEPHANIE MILLS
...Okay Michael...
FADE TO BLACK:
INT.HAYVENHURST-DAY(1977)
A stack of luggage sits at the front door heading to New
York as Michael and Latoya sit quietly.Latoya flips through
a Seventeen magazine,Michael reads the newspaper waiting
patiently.
Finally Katherine enters.
KATHERINE JACKSON
...Everything's ready...
The two look up.
KATHERINE JACKSON
Its time to go.
Latoya gets up,grabs her purse and heads out the door.Janet
stands there,waiting for them.Her eyes begin to water.Latoya
kisses her sister goodbye.
Michael notices Janet.He kneels down and hugs her tightly.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(RE:Janet)
...I'm gonna miss you
Janet starts to cry--Michael picks her up,holding her in his
arms.
INT.LIMO-POV MICHAEL-DAY(1977)
MICHAEL's P.O.V:the cityscape of Manhattan and its elite in
the early hours passes by.Pedestrians walk down the streets.
EXT.SUTTON PLACE-LATER
The limo pulls up outside the historic brown stone of Sutton
Place,a New York landmark.Michael and Latoya get out.The
DOORMEN gets their luggage quickly out the trunk as
Katherine graciously smiles.
Michael stands on the pavement,looking up,shoving his hands
inside his Mercedes Benz warm up jacket.
BILL BRAY(O.S)
C'mon Joker!
BILL BRAY looks around then gestures inside.They head
inside,Katherine leads the way.
INT.MICHAEL AND LATOYA'S APARTMENT-DAY(1977)
They come in.
A lavish apartment in Sutton Place overlooking Central Park
West.Simple high end furniture decorated with simplistic
ease.
Michael peers into the first bedroom.A bed with a very
feminine touch sits in the room with a mirror above it.He
stands there,idling for a moment,then moves to the next
door.The second bedroom is right next door,it contains a
simple twin bed and a desk.
LATOYA JACKSON
Mother...its beautiful.
KATHERINE JACKSON
Well,I wanted it to be nice for you
two...since your gonna be gone for
so long.
Michael walks around the apartment.He goes over to the
sliding doors,opens them.
CUT TO:
Michael walks out onto the balcony,looking out on to New
York City.He pulls out a camera and takes a picture.
FADE TO BLACK:
fade in:
INT.CAR-MORNING(1977)
Michael sits next to the window,staring out at New York
City.
INT.BROADWAY THEATER-AFTERNOON
MUSIC--The darkness of a Broadway theater,glowing from the
spotlights of the stage.It illuminates the faces of the
transfixed audience.
INT.BROADWAY THEATER-LATER
Its empty--except for two people.Sitting on the wooden
floor,LIZA MINNELLI watches Michael walk across the stage.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I luv it up here.
LIZA MINNELLI
I bet you do,sweet heart.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I think Broadway is the best but...
there once in a lifetime
performances...y'know...they can't
go back and make them better
...like in the movies...it must be
so wonderful...your dad was a
director.
LIZA MINNELLI
Daddy was good,but there are things
I would have changed in my own
life.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Me too...
Michael sits on the edge of the stage with the footlights.He
stares off into them,lost in his thoughts.
LIZA MINNELLI
What are your doing later?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Me and Latoya are gonna watch the
Twilight Zone...
LIZA MINNELLI
No sweetie....
Michael looks at her.
LIZA MINNELLI
This is New York, you can't be
coupe up in the house when the city
is alive, you got to experience it,
now Michael,you are coming with
me...to the greatest places on
earth.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(laughs,then--)
Disneyland?
LIZA MINNELLI
What?
MICHAEL JACKSON
(smiling)
That's Disneyland.
LIZA MINNELLI
Well its kind of like that
but--better.
MICHAEL JACKSON
What's its called?
Liza smirks.
LIZA MINNELLI
Its a surprise.
MICHAEL JACKSON
(skeptical)
Its a disco?
LIZA MINNELLI
Darling, this is "THE" DISCO.
INT.STUDIO 54-NIGHT
Neon flashes and WAR's "Galaxy" blares through the speakers.
The dance floor is thick with the rich and beautiful,moving
their bodies to the music.Liza and Michael move through the
crowd slowly(hand in hand),looking for someone.Finally Liza
spots them.
LIZA MINNELLI
Michael,this way!!
Holding tightly,Michael follows behind Liza.
Across the club,ANDY WARHOL sits with FRIENDS - Interview
Magazine staff,art brokers and socialites...stylish and
fashionably chain smoking.
They are going over various editorial layouts,advertisers
and photographs.
Andy sees Liza.
ANDY WARHOL
Gee,Liza..hey how are you? Who is
this?
LIZA MINNELLI
Andy,this is Michael...Michael,
this is Andy.
They shake hands.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Nice to meet you Andy Warhol.Are
you married?
Staff looks at Andy.
ANDY WARHOL
No...I'm not.
Andy smiles at Michael.He wears a fly collar white suit with
a gold chain around his neck.Michael's very sexy yet is
oblivious to his own looks.
ANDY WARHOL
Let's go up to the DJ booth...
MICHAEL JACKSON
(shy)
...okay...
ANDY WARHOL
(more shy)
....alright...
INT.STUDIO 54-DJ BOOTH
The lifeblood of Studio 54.The large booth is suspended
above the dance floor in a U-shape.Two turntables and rows
of albums line the counter.
People part as Michael and Andy emerge from the hall.Their
perched above the crowd.The moment is electric,its a vibe.
ANDY WARHOL
Play one.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I dunno...
ANDY WARHOL
Go 'head, play one.
The DJ steps aside.Michael goes through the stack of records
on the shelf.Browsing through the covers,he finds the one,
taking it out the jacket.
CLOSE ON RECORD PLAYER
The needle skips tediously along the black vinyl surface:
Diana Ross "THE BOSS" plays.
Michael with big headphones on,listens to the song.He gets
lost in the sound of Diana's voice.Michael looks out into
the crowd.
INT.STUDIO 54-LATER
Music continues.Michael and Liza disco dance on the
floor,moving to the groove.Lights strobe to the frenzy
when...
A large moon rises out of the ceiling,blinking,with a coke
spoon going up its nose.The crowd applauds like crazy as
Michael stares up in awe at the scene.
FADE TO BLACK:
INT.THE WIZ SET-DIANA'S TRAILER-DAY(1977)
Diana goes over her lines once more as her ASSISTANT stands
to the side.
DIANA ROSS
When's my call time?
DIANA'S ASSISTANT
Don't worry you got some time
....its not for another hour
YOUNG MAN'S VOICE(O.S)
(soft falsetto)
You shooting today?
Diana turns around,recognizing the voice:Its Michael,all
grown up.
DIANA ROSS
Michael,my baby! Come here.
Michael comes over to Diana at her vanity and leans against
it.They embrace.Diana sits back down,studies the script.
DIANA ROSS
God,I thought you were off today?
Lemme take you out to dinner.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I can't.I have to go back to the
apartment,Toya's with me...I don't
like to leave her alone.
Diana raises a brow.
DIANA ROSS
Latoya can take care of herself,
she say anything about Chico?
MICHAEL JACKSON
(laughing)
No.
DIANA ROSS
I was just telling Berry--
MICHAEL JACKSON
(interrupts)
You talked to Berry.
DIANA ROSS
Yeah,he's producing...he misses you
so much.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I know.
DIANA ROSS
Sit down.
Michael grabs a chair and pulls up next to her.
DIANA ROSS
Everyone is interested in you
Michael,they wanna know why your
doing this movie for one thing,I
tell 'em...its wonderful that your
here.Really.I'm so proud of you...
So,how are things?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Okay I guess.I went to a club a few
weeks ago called Studio 54.
DIANA ROSS
What did you think?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Most discos are the same but that
one...its different.
DIANA ROSS
I've been a few times...I love up
there in the booth.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Me too.
Diana looks at MJ.
DIANA ROSS
Where's Stephanie?
MJ looks at Diana.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Don't do that.
Diana smiles.Michael gets up and kisses her on the cheek.
MICHAEL JACKSON
Bye Diana.
INT.STUDIO 54-DOORS-NIGHT
Latoya,MJ and Liza walk towards the entrance.The music is
pounding as the lights seep through the double doors.The
lights shine on Latoya's cherry lip-gloss lips.Michael looks
at his sister as she leans on him.
LATOYA JACKSON
Are you sure?
MICHAEL JACKSON
C'mon 'Toya.
Latoya and Michael follow Liza.
DECADENT STUDIO 54 PARTY-
Stylish people disco dancing under the technicolor lights
....sweaty but beautiful...candy dishes of white powder
float around the room...BUSBOYS in satin shorts,thick gym
socks and sneakers balance trays on their hands moving
through the crowd...the song "Send me Forget me Nots" plays.
CUT TO:
Sitting on the velvet couches Latoya takes it all in.Her
eyes move curiously--
MICHAEL JACKSON
Isn't it amazing?!
LATOYA JACKSON
Mike?
MICHAEL JACKSON
Here,sit down.
Latoya looks around.A DISCO DANCER offers them the candy
bowl.In it is a array of PILLS and other drugs to take.
LATOYA JACKSON
No thank you.
(RE:Michael)
I thought you hated discos...
Michael shrugs.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I do but,there not like this...I've
been all around the world you know
...and I do hate discos...but this
is different Latoya...this is
something special...
LATOYA JACKSON
I dunno...
MICHAEL JACKSON
Just wait...Its so amazing when the
lights come down and the music is
thumping,its not like anything
you've seen before...'Toya its so
wonderful.
Looking over at Liza and Andy.
MICHAEL JACKSON
... and these people like Andy
Warhol...he's an artist,everyone is
so glamorous ...these are the
people I wanna be with you know, I
wanna be around all the stars...
Michael talks with the Warhol crowd--his new friends about
music with Latoya by his side.
LIZA MINNELLI
Have you two seen the Sanctum?
MICHAEL JACKSON
No...what is it?
Liza smiles.
INNER SANCTUM
WE HEAR "JUST A TOUCH OF LOVE" BY SLAVE:
Liza leads Michael and Latoya down the dark staircase,
feeling the walls for balance.They hear music playing,it
grows louder the closer they get.They make steps towards the
glowing inner sanctum.
INT.INNER SANCTUM-SAME
On the walls are floor length mirrors which reflect the
crowd of people here.The room is crimson red,making it hard
for them to make out things.
CROWD'S POV:
Through the crowd we can make out two bodies together on top
of a Lucite table(It's hard to make out exactly what's going
on).Some people shove to get a closer look.
Liza seats them with the onlookers,Michael and Latoya watch
in shock and disbelief.
LATOYA'S POV:
Two bodies entwined and moving in sync.
Sitting there amongst the spectators,Latoya cringes in her
seat at the closeness of this scene.The table rocks back and
forth from the brute force of thrusting,Latoya diverts her
gaze.
MICHAEL'S POV:
DISCO QUEEN lies on her back and a STUD gets on her(We can
hardly see what's happening)
Michael sits there watching the couple in between his bony
fingers,covering his face.
After while he feels comfortable. Michael lowers his hands
and watches the scene,eyes widening in amazement.
FADE TO BLACK:
INT.MICHAEL AND LATOYA'S APARTMENT-MORNING(1977)
Latoya goes in the kitchen,getting milk and Nesquik.She
measures a spoonful and puts it in a tall GLASS.Stirring the
glass, she lifts it to her lips when there's a KNOCK at the
door.
LATOYA JACKSON
Who could that be?
Another three knocks,Latoya sets down the glass.She rushes
to the door,flings it open--STEPHANIE MILLS stands in the
hallway.Latoya looks confused.
LATOYA JACKSON
(silent,then--)
Yes?
STEPHANIE MILLS
Hey 'Toya.
LATOYA JACKSON
Hey Stephanie, what are you doing
here?
STEPHANIE MILLS
Michael ask me to come.
LATOYA JACKSON
....I didn't know he had plans...
STEPHANIE MILLS
Oh well,I'm sorry.
LATOYA JACKSON
Pardon?
STEPHANIE MILLS
I'm sorry but...can I come in?
LATOYA JACKSON
Sure,Sure...come in, come in.
STEPHANIE MILLS
(going in)
Thanks.
Stephanie walks into the room,looking it over.
STEPHANIE MILLS
Where's Michael?
Latoya shuts the door,walking over to the couch.She takes a
seat next to Stephanie,crossing her legs.
LATOYA JACKSON
He's at work,on the movie set...he
won’t be back for awhile...when did
you get here?
STEPHANIE MILLS
Around six in the morning...
LATOYA JACKSON
Did you just fly in?
STEPHANIE MILLS
Yeah, I just got here.
LATOYA JACKSON
Lemme fix you some breakfast...
STEPHANIE MILLS
Okay.
Latoya goes back into the kitchenette,reaching into the
refrigerator.She pulls out a carton of eggs.She places them
on the counter as she gets the bacon.
Latoya turns on the stove and starts to make breakfast.
INT.MICHAEL AND LATOYA'S APARTMENT-LATER
The two go into the dining room.BACON SIZZLES...the faint
voices of Latoya and Stephanie talking fill the room.
STEPHANIE MILLS
So how's the movie?
LATOYA JACKSON
Great, its really good...its
amazing all the people working on
the film,dancers and musicians.
STEPHANIE MILLS
How's he doing?
LATOYA JACKSON
Mike is okay.....I guess.
STEPHANIE MILLS
(smirking)
You guess?
LATOYA JACKSON
He met some people...
(beat)
...I don't care so much for them.
Stephanie looks confused,searching Latoya's face.She fumbles
the mug in her hands,clicking against her fingernails.Latoya
looks in the kitchen.
LATOYA JACKSON
'xcuse for one moment.
She quickly goes to the stove,turning off the bacon and
eggs.Latoya plates the food,bringing it out to the table.
STEPHANIE MILLS
Who?
LATOYA JACKSON
(never heard of)
Andy Warhol,Halston--
(beat)
...a few others,they do a funny
white powder.
Stephanie reaches for her hands,holding them in hers.
STEPHANIE MILLS
Cocaine?
Latoya sits down.
LATOYA JACKSON
What?
STEPHANIE MILLS
(shocked)
...its Cocaine,you've seen them do
it?
LATOYA JACKSON
..all the time...what is that? we
were wondering how they had so much
energy...
STEPHANIE MILLS
Latoya,that's drugs...dope,smack?!
you know?
Latoya looks puzzled.
STEPHANIE MILLS
Jesus...Latoya that's dangerous..
you didn't take any did you?
LATOYA JACKSON
No!
STEPHANIE MILLS
No reefer,anything?
LATOYA JACKSON
No.Never.
STEPHANIE MILLS
(silence,then--)
Did Michael?
LATOYA JACKSON
No.I don't think so.I'm just
concerned that's all,I'm glad your
here.
FADE TO BLACK: