FADE IN:
INT. SAM'S ICE CREAM PARLOR - MATTAPAN, BOSTON - NIGHT
Samuel Robinson, a lean, muscular 19-year-old with a solemn expression, stands behind the counter of his small, dimly lit ice cream parlor. The neon lights flicker outside, casting eerie shadows on the walls. The bell above the door jingles as it opens.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT - BASEMENT - LATE NIGHT
Sam, wearing a faded gray hoodie, descends the stairs into his cluttered basement workshop. The walls are plastered with blueprints and newspaper clippings of missing young people. He approaches his creation, a large metallic contraption humming with power.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S ICE CREAM PARLOR - MATTAPAN, BOSTON - DAY
The bell jingles again as Sam's best friend, MARIA, a spunky and fiercely loyal Latina, walks in. She notices the dark circles under Sam's eyes.
MARIA:
Sam, you okay? You've been looking tired.
SAM:
Yeah, just working on some... stuff.
MARIA:
(concerned)
You're not getting into trouble, are you?
SAM:
(smiles)
No, I'm just trying to make a difference.
Maria's curiosity piqued, she nods and heads behind the counter to start her shift.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - BOSTON - DAY
Agent JENKINS, a seasoned but overworked man in his 40s, sifts through files. His partner, Agent ROSS, a sharp and ambitious young black woman, points at a map with red markers scattered across the country.
AGENT ROSS:
Another missing person from a troubled area, and no leads.
SUMMARY^1: Samuel Robinson, a 19-year-old orphan known for his unsettling aura, runs an ice cream parlor in Boston's Mattapan neighborhood. Secretly, he's a genius who built a machine to save marginalized youths from a dying Earth by transferring them to a lush, alternate planet. His friend, Maria, notices his fatigue, while FBI agents Jenkins and Ross investigate a string of related disappearances. ---
AGENT JENKINS:
(sighs)
It's like they're disappearing into thin air.
Their boss, DIRECTOR WALTERS, strides in, slapping a newspaper with a headline about the missing individuals.
DIRECTOR WALTERS:
We need to find a pattern, fast. This is escalating.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT - BASEMENT - NIGHT
Sam works tirelessly on his machine, surrounded by empty soda cans and half-eaten food. He's lost in thought, scribbling notes on a pad. His phone buzzes.
SAM:
(to himself)
Come on, come on...
He reads a text message and his eyes widen.
SAM:
(whispers)
They're onto me.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S ICE CREAM PARLOR - MATTAPAN, BOSTON - NIGHT
The parlor is empty. Sam wipes down the counters, his mind racing. The bell jingles. Two FBI AGENTS, stern and suspicious, enter.
AGENT 1:
Samuel Robinson?
SAM:
(nervously)
Yeah, that's me. Can I help you?
AGENT 2:
We have some questions about your recent bank transactions.
Sam's heart skips a beat, his secret at risk of exposure.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - BOSTON - LATE NIGHT
Sam sits in an interrogation room, sweating under the harsh lights. Agent Ross observes through the one-way mirror.
SAM:
I don't know what you're talking about.
AGENT JENKINS:
Your bank account has seen some... unusual activity. Large withdrawals from ATMs in places you've never been.
SAM:
It's a mistake. I've been working two jobs to help out.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - SURVEILLANCE ROOM - CONTINUOUS
SUMMARY^1: FBI agents Jenkins and Ross are under pressure to solve the mysterious disappearances, which are escalating. Meanwhile, Sam, who's been using his machine to rescue people and withdrawing funds from ATMs across the country, is confronted by the FBI in his ice cream parlor. He maintains his cover, claiming it's a mistake due to working two jobs. The tension builds as Sam is interrogated.
Agents huddle around monitors, tracking Sam's transactions as he remains calm in the interrogation room. The tension escalates.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S ICE CREAM PARLOR - MATTAPAN, BOSTON - NIGHT
Maria, her heart racing, gathers a group of SAM's regulars from the neighborhood: TYRONE, a wise-cracking young black man with a heart of gold, and LILY, a quiet Asian girl with a fierce spirit. They pool their resources and count out a stack of cash.
MARIA:
This should be enough for his bond. We've got to get Sam out of there.
TYRONE:
You sure about this, Maria? Sam's always been a little... off.
LILY:
(nods)
But he's never hurt anyone. He's always been there for us.
They head to the FBI headquarters, determination etched on their faces.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - BOSTON - NIGHT
The trio enters the bustling station, drawing the gaze of agents and officers.
MARIA:
(firmly)
We're here for Samuel Robinson. We have his bond money.
The LEAD DETECTIVE, a gruff middle-aged man, glances at them from his desk.
LEAD DETECTIVE:
Bond? He's not going anywhere until we have evidence.
ARTIE, Sam's mother's friend and a well-respected lawyer, ATTORNEY ARTEMISIA MONTEIRO, strides in, briefcase in hand.
ARTIE:
(to the detective)
Officer, my name is Attorney Artemisia Monteiro. If you do not have substantial evidence or an arrest warrant, you cannot hold him indefinitely.
The detective scoffs but grows visibly nervous as Artie cites legal precedents. The CAPTAIN, a no-nonsense woman, enters the room.
SUMMARY^1: As Sam is interrogated, his friends, including Maria, Tyrone, and Lily, gather the community's support and funds to post his bond. They arrive at the FBI headquarters with their lawyer, Artie Monteiro, who pressures the lead detective on legal grounds, hinting at potential misconduct in holding Sam without evidence. The captain's entrance adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
CAPTAIN:
What's going on here? Why are all these people in my station?
The detective explains the situation, omitting the part about the missing persons.
ARTIE:
(to the captain)
My client's rights are being violated. Without evidence, you're holding an innocent man.
The captain's eyes narrow as she assesses the situation.
CAPTAIN:
(to the detective)
Get me the paperwork on this. Now.
The detective, begrudgingly, leaves the room.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - INTERROGATION ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Sam's eyes flicker to the one-way mirror, hopeful.
SAM:
(whispers)
Please, let it be enough.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - CAPTAIN'S OFFICE - NIGHT
The captain reviews the paperwork, her expression darkening.
CAPTAIN:
(to the detective)
You brought him in on suspicion of fraud? With no evidence?
The detective sputters a defense.
CAPTAIN:
(interrupts)
We're not holding Mr. Robinson any longer. If you have a case, build it, but do it outside my station.
The detective reluctantly nods and releases Sam.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - LOBBY - NIGHT
Sam emerges, looking shaken but relieved. He's met by a hug from Maria.
SAM:
Thanks, guys.
ARTIE:
(serious)
Sam, we need to talk.
The group exits the station into the cold Boston night.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT - LIVING ROOM - LATE NIGHT
Artie paces as Sam explains his mission. The room falls silent when he reveals the existence of the alternate Earths.
ARTIE:
(shocked)
Sam, this is... incredible. But dangerous. If the FBI finds out...
MARIA:
We're with you.
TYRONE:
We're just supposed to take your word for it, Sam? No offense, but you gotta give us something more.
SAM:
(determined)
I'll show you. All of you.
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - HALLWAY - LATE NIGHT
The group follows Sam through a musty, cobweb-covered hallway to an old, unused access panel. He pulls out a set of keys and opens it.
SAM:
This leads to the basement. It's where I keep... everything.
They follow him down a flight of stairs into a dusty, dimly lit basement.
INT. BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
The room is cluttered with electronics, wires, and various gadgets. In the center stands the machine, humming softly. The TV in the corner flickers to life.
TALEAH WILLIAMS (V.O., TV):
Breaking news. Saudi Arabia has just issued a stark warning to Ethiopia regarding the Grand Renaissance Dam project. Sources indicate the threat of a nuclear strike is not off the table, sparking fears of a global crisis.
The room grows tense as the news sinks in.
SAM:
This is just the beginning. We don't have much time.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - LATE NIGHT
Sam opens a dusty file cabinet and pulls out a folder filled with photos and documents of the alternate Earths.
SAM:
(handing the folder to Tyrone)
Look for yourself. The world out there... it's not going to get better. We need a new home for those who can't survive here.
Tyrone flips through the images, his skepticism slowly dissolving into wonder.
TYRONE:
(whispers)
This can't be real.
SAM:
It is. And it's our responsibility to help them.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - LATER
The group gathers around the machine, now fully powered up. The air crackles with anticipation.
ARTIE:
Sam, if this is true, it changes everything.
SAM:
I know. That's why we have to be careful.
The TV flickers again, the news now showing images of protests and military movements.
TALEAH WILLIAMS (V.O., TV):
The situation is rapidly deteriorating. The UN has called for an emergency meeting.
SAM:
(to the group)
We need to keep this a secret. For everyone's safety.
MARIA:
What's the plan, Sam?
SAM:
We keep rescuing people, build the colony, and find a way to warn the others.
INT. BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
Lily approaches the machine, curiosity outweighing fear.
LILY:
How does it work?
SAM:
(smiling)
It's complicated. But trust me, it's our ticket out of here.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - LATER
The group, now fully committed, works tirelessly through the night, preparing supplies and gathering information.
SAM:
We need to be smart about this. We can't save everyone at once.
MARIA:
We'll start with those we know need it most.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - HALLWAY - LATE NIGHT
The group, armed with backpacks and a sense of purpose, heads out into the night, the TV's ominous glow casting shadows on their faces.
SAM:
(voiceover)
We're going to build a new world, free from hate and fear.
The door closes behind them, the TV's murmur echoing in the empty hallway.
FADE OUT.
FADE IN:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - EARLY MORNING
The group is still hard at work. Sam looks up from his computer, an idea forming.
SAM:
We need to spread the word. We should host a community meeting.
MARIA:
Yeah, but we have to make it big. Like a block party or something. Get everyone talking.
SAM:
Good thinking. We'll do it this weekend.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - LIVING ROOM - DAY
Maria, Tyrone, and Lily sit around the living room, brainstorming.
MARIA:
We'll have music, food, games for the kids.
TYRONE:
But where are we gonna get the money for all that?
SAM:
(calmly)
Don't worry about that.
He reaches into his backpack and pulls out a wad of cash, passing it around the group.
MAX:
(whistles)
Where'd you get that, Sam?
SAM:
(smirks)
Let's just say it's from a... donation.
TAHJE:
(excited)
Alright, let's do it!
MAX:
And I know the perfect DJ.
SAM:
Good. Max, you handle the music. Tyrone, can you get the venue and security?
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN PARK - DAY
Tyrone, with a newfound sense of urgency, calls his old high school buddy, the owner of Venom Security.
TYRONE:
(on the phone)
Hey, man, we need your help. We're throwing a block party this weekend.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN PARK - WEEKEND - DAY
The park is buzzing with life. Colorful streamers and balloons adorn the trees. The smell of Jamaican jerk chicken and Cape Verdean stew fills the air. People of all ages and backgrounds mingle, enjoying the free food and music.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
Artie, now fully invested in the cause, makes calls to gather more supplies.
ARTIE:
(on the phone)
We're going to need more tents, food, and medical supplies.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN PARK - STAGE - DAY
Sam steps onto the stage, the music fading out as he's met with applause.
SAM:
Thank you, everyone, for coming out today. We're here to talk about a new opportunity, a chance for a better life.
The crowd listens intently.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - NIGHT
The group finalizes the list of people they plan to rescue. Sam's eyes fall on the twins, Tahje and Max.
SAM:
You guys are going to be our eyes and ears at the party. Spread the word, but don't give too much away.
TAHJE:
(nods)
You got it, Sam.
MAX:
We won't let you down.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN PARK - BLOCK PARTY - NIGHT
The party is in full swing. Tahje and Max mingle, whispering to their friends and family members.
MAX:
You guys have to come to the meeting after the party. Sam's got something huge to tell everyone.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN PARK - STAGE - NIGHT
The lights dim as the DJ announces the final act. The crowd roars as the music starts.
MAX:
(to Tahje)
This is our cue.
The twins slip away into the shadows.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - NIGHT
The group gathers around the machine, their excitement palpable. Sam flips a switch, and the wall before them lights up, revealing the breathtaking scene of an alternate Earth.
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - NIGHT
SAM:
This is the world we can offer them. Safety, prosperity, and freedom.
The projection shows a serene landscape with vibrant colors and joyous people. Tyrone, skeptical, approaches the glowing wall.
TYRONE:
(smirks)
It's just a projection, right? Like some kind of VR setup.
SAM:
(chuckles)
It's not VR, Tyrone. It's real.
With a dramatic flourish, Tyrone reaches out to swipe at the image, expecting his hand to pass through.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
The room gasps as Tyrone's hand touches the projection and sinks into it. He pulls it back, bewildered.
MARIA:
(whispers)
What the...
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
Without warning, Tyrone leaps through the projection, disappearing into the light. The group stares in shock.
SAM:
Tyrone!
The projection shows Tyrone landing in the soft grass of the alternate Earth, looking around in amazement.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
The group rushes to the projection, their eyes glued to the scene.
LILY:
(awestruck)
It's... beautiful.
SAM:
And it's our responsibility to make sure those who need it most get there.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - LATER
The group discusses the implications of Tyrone's unplanned trip.
ARTIE:
Sam, if we can prove this, we can change everything.
SAM:
(nods)
But we have to be careful. The FBI is already watching us.
MAX:
(eagerly)
What if we show them? Like, a demonstration?
SAM:
(thinks)
That's risky. But it might be our only way to convince them.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN PARK - BLOCK PARTY - NIGHT
The partygoers gather around the stage, curious about the secret meeting Sam has called.
SAM:
(on stage)
Thank you all for coming. Tonight, we're going to do something incredible.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
Sam turns a dial, and the projection flickers before stabilizing. The wall is now a gateway.
MAX:
(whispers)
It's working.
SAM:
(on stage, into a microphone)
This is our future. A place where we can live without fear.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN PARK - STAGE - CONTINUOUS
Through the projection, Tyrone emerges, the wind gently ruffling his hair as he stands in the lush field of the alternate Earth.
CROWD (O.S.):
(gasps and murmurs)
SAM:
(proudly)
Tyrone, come back.
Tyrone, still in disbelief, steps back through the projection into the basement.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
The group cheers as Tyrone returns, brushing off grass from his clothes.
MARIA:
(to the crowd)
This is real! Sam's been saving people!
The crowd's skepticism turns to wonder and hope.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN PARK
The crowd, now swollen with hope and desperation, listens as Sam explains the rules for the exodus.
SAM:
Remember, only one bag each. We can't risk overloading the pods.
Maria and Lily distribute bags to the eager families.
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT
The group continues to work around the clock, preparing pods for the journey. Sam is on the phone with a contact for more supplies.
SAM:
(into phone)
We need more seeds, tools, and building materials. Yes, I know it's a lot, but lives are at stake.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - BOSTON - DAY
The news of the impending family reunion has the FBI scrambling for information.
AGENT JENKINS:
Why would so many people be coming together now?
AGENT ROSS:
(studying the news report)
It's a cover. Something's up.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN POLICE STATION - DAY
The local POLICE CHIEF, a grizzled veteran, watches the news with a mix of skepticism and concern.
POLICE CHIEF:
(to his officers)
Keep an eye on that reunion. Something's not right.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - NIGHT
The machine is now a series of pods, each capable of holding a small family. The pods are stocked with essentials.
SAM:
(to Tyrone)
Take the bus and start gathering the families tonight. The vans are for those who can't make it to the warehouse.
TYRONE:
You got it, boss.
CUT TO:
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - NIGHT
Maria and Lily organize the pods, making sure everything is in order.
MARIA:
(to Lily)
Sam said to keep the pods running. We don't know when we'll need to leave.
LILY:
(nods)
We're ready when they are.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN STREETS - NIGHT
Tyrone navigates the bus through the deserted streets, while the twins, in their vans, follow a similar route. They collect families from various locations, each more anxious than the last.
TAHJE:
(to MAX)
You sure about this, bro?
MAX:
(confident)
Sam's got a plan. We trust him.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - NIGHT
Sam paces, checking the machine's readings.
SAM:
(to himself)
Come on, hold together.
Suddenly, the machine emits an alarming beep.
SAM:
(panicking)
No, no, no.
He rushes to the computer and starts typing frantically.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - BOSTON - NIGHT
Agents Jenkins and Ross burst into the captain's office.
AGENT JENKINS:
We've got a problem. There's a mass exodus happening in Mattapan.
CAPTAIN:
(alarmed)
What do you mean?
AGENT ROSS:
It's the reunion. Something's not right.
The captain's eyes widen as she realizes the gravity of the situation.
CAPTAIN:
Alert Homeland Security. We need to find out what's going on.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN POLICE STATION - NIGHT
The police chief receives the alert.
POLICE CHIEF:
(to his officers)
We're going to the reunion site. Full gear.
CUT TO:
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - NIGHT
The families are packed into the pods. Tyrone stands by the door, looking around nervously.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN POLICE STATION - CONFERENCE ROOM - NIGHT
The Police Chief, FBI Agents Jenkins and Ross, and Homeland Security agents huddle around a map of the neighborhood.
POLICE CHIEF:
(confused)
What the hell is going on? Our usual snitches have gone silent.
AGENT JENKINS:
And the ATMs in the area are dry. It's like someone's been buying up the neighborhood's gold.
HOMSEC AGENT:
(agitated)
This is bigger than we thought. We need to move in now.
POLICE CHIEF:
Hold on. We don't want to start a panic.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
Sam checks the pods, ensuring everyone is safe and secure.
SAM:
(into walkie-talkie)
Tyrone, we're ready. Bring the last group.
The pods' doors close, and the machine hums to life.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN STREETS - NIGHT
Police cars and unmarked FBI vehicles converge on the area around the warehouse.
CUT TO:
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - NIGHT
The pods begin to rise into the air, the families inside looking hopeful and nervous.
MAX:
(into walkie-talkie)
Sam, we're at the warehouse. We've got the last group.
SAM:
(over speaker)
Bring them in, quickly.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
Sam sees the pods approaching on the monitor.
SAM:
(whispers to himself)
Almost there.
Suddenly, the pods' flight path changes, diverting from the warehouse.
SAM:
(alarmed)
What's happening?
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN STREETS - NIGHT
The pods are being redirected by an unseen force.
MAX:
(into walkie-talkie)
Sam, we're being...
The pods vanish into thin air, cutting off Max's voice.
CUT TO:
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - NIGHT
Sam slams his fist on the control panel.
SAM:
(to the group)
We've got to get to the warehouse. Now!
The group sprints to their vehicles, fear etched on their faces.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN STREETS - NIGHT
The pods reappear in the middle of the streets, surrounded by the flashing lights of the FBI and Homeland Security vehicles.
HOMSEC AGENT:
(over loudspeaker)
This is a federal operation. Stand down!
CUT TO:
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - NIGHT
Sam and the others arrive to find the pods gone and the warehouse surrounded.
SAM:
(desperately)
They're here!
MARIA:
What do we do?
SAM:
(determined)
We fight for them.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN STREETS - OUTSIDE THE WAREHOUSE - NIGHT
The pods hover as Sam and the group approach, the authorities tightening their grip.
POLICE CHIEF:
Samuel Robinson, come out with your hands up!
SAM:
(yells)
You don't understand! We're saving these people!
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - BOSTON - NIGHT
Director Walters watches the standoff unfold on the monitors, his expression unreadable.
DIRECTOR WALTERS:
(into phone)
We've got a situation. The pods have gone missing, and the suspects are not cooperating.
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
Sam, sweating and frantic, works on the machine.
SAM:
(whispers)
I can't let them down.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN STREETS - OUTSIDE THE WAREHOUSE - NIGHT
The police and FBI agents move in, flashlights cutting through the darkness.
SAM:
(into walkie-talkie)
Tyrone, take the bus to Mattapan Square. Distract them.
The crowd around Sam suddenly grows larger, residents from the surrounding buildings joining in to protect him.
POLICE CHIEF:
(over loudspeaker)
This is your last warning!
SAM:
(to the crowd)
Don't let them take me! Help me save our people!
The crowd surges forward, blocking the authorities' path.
CUT TO:
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT
Lily and Maria watch the chaos on a monitor, their eyes wide with fear.
MARIA:
(into walkie-talkie)
Sam, you need to get out of there!
SAM:
(distant voice)
I will. Make sure everyone gets to the warehouse safely.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN STREETS - SAM'S APARTMENT BLOCK - CONTINUOUS
Sam sprints down an alley, the sound of sirens growing louder. He rounds a corner and... vanishes. The pursuing agents skid to a halt, confused.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN SQUARE - NIGHT
Tyrone parks the bus and jumps out, adrenaline pumping. He grabs a megaphone.
CUT TO:
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - CONTROL ROOM
Lily's eyes dart to the pods.
LILY:
(whispers)
They're here.
The pods, filled with hopeful families, hover in the vast space of the warehouse.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN SQUARE - CONTINUOUS
Tyrone starts speaking into the megaphone, rallying the confused and scared residents.
TYRONE:
(to the crowd)
You've seen what he can do! Don't let them take him!
The crowd grows, their shouts echoing through the night.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN STREETS - OUTSIDE THE WAREHOUSE - CONTINUOUS
The police and FBI agents, distracted by the commotion at the square, momentarily loosen their grip.
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - CONTROL ROOM
Maria checks the pods.
MARIA:
(into walkie-talkie)
Sam, we're ready for the next group.
SAM:
(breathless)
Hold on. I need to fix the interference.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN SQUARE - NIGHT
Sam appears, his eyes wild with desperation. He spots Tyrone.
SAM:
Tyrone!
They share a look of understanding.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT
Sam works frantically at his computer, his fingers flying across the keyboard.
CUT TO:
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - CONTROL ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Maria and Lily watch the pods with bated breath.
INT. MATTAPAN STREETS - OUTSIDE THE WAREHOUSE - CONTINUOUS
The police and FBI agents are now fully focused on the warehouse.
POLICE CHIEF:
(into radio)
We need backup. Now.
The crowd, seemingly in sync, breaks into a chaotic retreat, scattering in all directions. The helicopter pilot, watching the live feed, reports back.
HELICOPTER PILOT:
(over radio)
Looks like they're all moving toward the Dorchester Warehouse district.
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT
Director Walters' eyes narrow as he watches the screen.
DIRECTOR WALTERS:
(into radio)
Follow that bus. If they get to the Blue Hills, we may never find them again.
CUT TO:
INT. BLUE HILL AVENUE - NIGHT
The bus barrels through the police barricade, sparks flying. Cars screech as they give chase.
POLICE OFFICER:
(over radio)
Bus is headed to Milton! All units, set up a roadblock on the route to the Blue Mountains!
CUT TO:
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - CONTROL ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Lily and Maria exchange a worried glance.
LILY:
(whispers)
Sam...
MARIA:
(nods)
We'll keep the pods ready.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN STREETS - BLUE HILL AVENUE - NIGHT
Sam and Tyrone weave through the chaos, their destination clear.
SAM:
(panting)
Almost there.
The bus, with the pods in tow, speeds down the empty street, pursued by a convoy of flashing lights.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT
The computer beeps. Sam's eyes light up with hope.
SAM:
(whispers)
I've got it.
CUT TO:
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT
The pods begin to ascend again, the machine's energy levels stable.
MARIA:
They're coming in!
The pods descend into the warehouse as the bus and the convoy of FBI vehicles close in.
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN STREETS - BLUE HILL AVENUE - CONTINUOUS
Sam and Tyrone jump onto the bus, slamming the doors shut behind them.
SAM:
(yelling)
Go, go, go!
The bus roars away from the warehouse, leaving the pods hovering in the open space.
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - CONTROL ROOM - CONTINUOUS
The pods align with the machine's energy field.
ARTIE:
(over radio)
Sam, now!
CUT TO:
INT. MATTAPAN STREETS - BLUE HILL AVENUE - NIGHT
The bus weaves through traffic, narrowly avoiding collisions. The pods follow, a surreal sight in the urban jungle.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
Sam types furiously, the machine's lights flashing.
SAM:
Hold on, I'm transferring you now!
The pods vanish into the night sky, leaving the FBI agents gaping in astonishment.
CUT TO:
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - CONTROL ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Maria and Lily watch the monitors as the pods vanish.
MARIA:
(whispers)
They made it.
CUT TO:
INT. MILITARY BUNKER - EARTH PRIME
A MILITARY GENERAL stares at a map with grim determination.
MILITARY GENERAL:
Prepare the missiles.
CUT TO:
INT. THE BUS - NIGHT
The families huddle together, eyes glued to the flickering TV screen in the corner, broadcasting images of chaos and impending doom.
TALEAH WILLIAMS (V.O., TV):
In an unprecedented move, Saudi Arabia has launched a preemptive strike against Ethiopia. The world watches in horror as the countdown to a potential nuclear holocaust begins.
The TV's volume is muted by the sound of running footsteps echoing down the stairs. The door to the warehouse slams open, and in bursts Sam, followed closely by Tyrone, both out of breath and desperate.
SAM:
(yelling)
They're launching! We have to go now!
The families exchange panicked glances. The pods hover anxiously, ready to transport them to safety.
Tyrone nods, understanding the gravity of the situation.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT
The FBI agents, led by Jenkins and Ross, finally break through the barricade.
JENKINS:
We've got him!
They're met with a smoke-filled room, the remnants of Sam's machine in a charred heap.
CUT TO:
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - CONTROL ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Sam, sweat glistening on his forehead, makes a final adjustment to the control panel.
SAM:
(into walkie-talkie)
Everyone, hold on. This is going to be a rough ride.
The machine's core lights up with a blinding blue light. A portal opens, vast and swirling.
CUT TO:
INT. THE BUS - CONTINUING
The bus screeches to a halt outside the warehouse. The pods hover in a line, waiting for the last of the refugees.
SAM:
(to the families)
Go! Now!
The families rush off the bus, pushed by the urgency in Sam's voice. They run through the portal, disappearing into the new world.
CUT TO:
INT. THE BUS - CONTINUING
Sam and Tyrone stand in the open doorway, watching as the last of the refugees escape.
SAM:
(to Tyrone)
You go. I'll cover the rear.
Tyrone nods, his face a mask of determination.
CUT TO:
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - CONTROL ROOM
The pods are almost empty, the last few people clinging to hope and fear.
MARIA:
Sam! You're the last one!
SAM:
(into walkie-talkie)
I have to stay. There's more work to be done.
MARIA:
(desperate)
You can't!
SAM:
(firmly)
I'll be there in six months. Trust me.
Maria and Lily exchange a worried look, but they know Sam is resolute.
CUT TO:
INT. THE BUS - CONTINUING
Sam takes a deep breath and pulls out a small device from his backpack.
SAM:
(to the group)
This is for the best. For all of us.
He presses the button.
CUT TO:
INT. SAM'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
The machine in Sam's apartment explodes in a fiery inferno.
INT. DORCHESTER WAREHOUSE - CONTROL ROOM
The same explosion echoes through the warehouse, knocking over the pods and sending debris flying.
SAM:
(yelling)
Go, now!
The final pods ascend and vanish through the portal.
CUT TO:
INT. THE BUS - CONTINUING
The bus is now empty, the portal closing rapidly.
SAM:
(whispers)
See you soon.
He hops off the bus, the portal snapping shut behind him.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HE
JENKINS:
(to ROSS)
We've got intel that the disappearances might be linked to that kid in Boston, Samuel Robinson.
ROSS:
(skeptical)
The ice cream shop owner? Why would a teenager be involved in international terrorism?
JENKINS:
(hands ROSS a file)
Read this. His background's more than just scooping cones.
ROSS:
(flips through the file)
Orphaned, genius-level intellect, no known affiliations. This doesn't add up.
CUT TO:
INT. ELECTRONICS STORE - ATLANTA - DAY
The crowd outside the store watches the news report on a giant TV display.
TALEAH WILLIAMS (V.O., TV):
The mysterious disappearance of over five hundred people from Boston's Mattapan neighborhood during the height of the Saudi-Ethiopian conflict remains unsolved. The FBI has named Samuel Robinson as a person of interest, citing his history of hacking and unusual purchases.
INT. ELECTRONICS STORE - CONTINUOUS
The young man in the gray hoodie, SAM, watches from the back of the store, his eyes never leaving the TV.
TALEAH WILLIAMS (V.O., TV):
Meanwhile, in cities like Atlanta, an unexplained phenomenon has occurred. Since the disappearance of these individuals, crime rates have dropped dramatically, by as much as 90 percent in some areas.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - ATLANTA - DAY
JENKINS and ROSS enter, looking grim.
JENKINS:
We've got reports of similar occurrences in cities across the country.
ROSS:
But what does this have to do with the kid?
JENKINS:
(holds up the file)
This kid's smarter than we thought. Maybe he's got something to do with it.
ROSS:
But what? He's just a...
Their conversation is interrupted by the TV in the background.
TALEAH WILLIAMS (V.O., TV):
In a twist of fate, many of those missing were at-risk youths, often the targets of gang violence and discrimination.
The camera pans to the young man in the gray hoodie, now visible through the store window.
SAM:
(whispers)
It's working.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - CONFERENCE ROOM - CONTINUOUS
The local FBI director addresses the room, pointing to a map with various pins scattered across the country.
DIRECTOR:
We suspect Mr. Robinson has been orchestrating these disappearances to build some sort of... utopia.
CUT TO:
INT. THE BUS - THE ROAD - DAY
The bus, now in the countryside, stops at a nondescript location. The pods are gone, but the machine's parts are scattered.
SAM:
(to MARIA and LILY)
We need to find more people. We can't do this alone.
MARIA:
But the FBI's looking for you. How do we stay hidden?
SAM:
We'll lay low, build a new machine, and keep moving.
CUT TO:
INT. THE BUS - THE ROAD - CONTINUOUS
The trio works together, assembling the new machine.
SAM:
It won't be perfect, but it'll get us to the next phase.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS - CONTROL ROOM - ATLANTA - DAY
The news report plays, and the director's voice echoes through the room.
TALEAH WILLIAMS (V.O., TV):
The FBI is now offering a one million dollar reward for any information leading to the capture of Samuel Robinson.
CUT TO:
INT. THE BUS - THE ROAD - CONTINUOUS
The new machine, smaller but no less powerful, is almost complete.
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