Script

SCRIPT

Starting at the Chicago River looking Northbound at the Wrigley Building, we PAN PAST A MONTAGE OF CHICAGO LANDMARKS & STREET SCENES…which eventually flow into a series of bungalows along NW. Elston Ave.  Close in on LOLO’S residence a shabby two flat with  with a surprisingly bright red door.

CUT TO:

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, DAY

LOLITA DEMATEO (LOLO), 18 but looking younger, boyishly built, wearing only rumpled “smiley face” boxer shorts, is sleeping, joints akimbo, under a tangled mass of blankets on a pullout sofa bed which pretty much occupies all the visible floor space in her messy, one room, kitchenette apartment.  This is the living space of someone who appears to have given up on themselves and on life.  Dirty dishes and clothing are strewn everywhere and the only visible nod to decor is a series of old boxing posters — framed and hanging along one wall – all featuring the same boxer.

Close up on LOLO’s face as she opens one eye grudgingly to sound (O.S.) of TODDLER WAILING. Eye opens, closes and reopens as crying escalates until it morphs into the SCREECH OF A JET ENGINE IN LANDING MODE.

CUT TO:

EXT. O’HARE AIRPORT, DAY

A jet has landed and passengers are disembarking.  ROBERTO (BOBBY) DEMATEO, handsome, mid twenties, looking slightly furtive is among them. Looking around anxiously, he hurries thru the terminal without stopping for luggage and hops quickly into the first waiting taxi cab.  As the cab swings out into traffic exiting the airport, he casts a final look backwards and then relaxes a bit.

CUT TO:

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, DAY

LOLO grudgingly drags herself out of bed, pulls a ragged Dago tee on above her boxer shorts and picking her way around clutter retrieves the whaling toddler, JOHNNY, from a shabby crib in against one wall.  She is so small and slight that the impression is of one child holding another.

LOLO

O.K., baby, O.K..  I know You need more formula.

(Holding the infant out in front of her and sniffing)

LOLO (CONT’D)

And some more diapers…hunh, Mr. Stinkey…

Hugging the baby back to her chest and kissing him

LOLO (CONT’D)

I know, Johnny, baby.  I know I been messin up some since Grama died.

She spies a leftover slice of pizza on the counter above the mini-fridge which she breaks apart and tentatively offers to the child whose crying de-escalates in response

LOLO (CONT’D)

I promise, baby, today I’m going down to welfare and sign us up.  Food before pride, O.K., baby?

She sets the baby on the sofa bed, lights a cigarette  and task a swig out of an open can of pop sitting on the kitchenette counter. 

There is a LOUD KNOCKING on the door (O.S.).  Climbing back over the clutter again, Lolo opens the door to find her landlord, MANNY (late thirties, nattily but tastelessly  dressed, he is an former gang-banger trying to legitimize himself thru his drug-money real estate purchases but his rough roots are still apparent.

MANNY

So Lolo, how ya been doing, Chica.

(effecting an attempt at a sympathetic expression)

I guess things been pretty tough on you since your Moms passed, right?

LOLO looks at him suspiciously and steps past the doorway and into the hall as if to keep him out of her living space.

MANNY (CONT’D)

Hey.  She was one special lady, right, your Moms?  Special to me too.  Truth be told, that’s why I let you all stay here so long…rent free.  Well that and my respect for your Grandpa.   He was the man, Johnny DeMateo.  A real champ, right?  But I’m a businessman, you understand.  I gots ta get some money out’a dis here place, right?  So you guys got’a start paying me some rent…

Looking Lolo up and down appraisingly.

MANNY (CONT’D)

Unless, of course, you wan’na make a “special” arrangement  with me like your Moms had?…

(he attempts a seductive smile)

LOLO (LOOKING SHAMEFACEDLY DOWN AT HER FEET MUMBLING )

That’s allright.  I’m gonna be getting some money real soon.  I just need a little more time.

MANNY

Sure thing Chica.  You know,  on account’a my respect for your gramps and, ‘course, your mom.  I can hold off another week or so.  But after that, if you ain’t brought your tab up at date…you an the kid gots ta go.

LOLO nods, turns and goes back into her room shutting the door in Manny’s face. ­

INT. HALLWAY LOLO’S BUILDING, DAY

Manny looks towards the closed door and then, shaking his head, turns and walks off down the dark, narrow stairs.

EXT. IN FRONT OF LOLO’S BUILDING, DAY

CHICO, Lolo’s neighbor,  Hispanic, 22, dressed in urban hip style, is sprawled out on a broken down garden chaise lounge on the tiny porch of the of the ramshackle bungalow next door to Lolo’s.  He’s drinking a beer and playing a noisy video game. A cab pulls up and deposits BOBBY DEMATEO out onto the street in front of Lolo’s.

CHICO

(hopping out of the deck chair and scrambling down the stairs to clutch at Bobby’s hand)

Yo, Bobby, man.  Ain’t seen you around the hood for about a minute.  Where ya been keepin yourself?

BOBBY

Hey, CHICO, how ya doin bro? 

(smiling)

Still living with your mom I see. (Smiling)

CHICO

(laughing)

Hey, old gal needs me, man.  All them yuppies an yippies an what all hanging around the hood now.  I’m helpin her keep it real.

(Slapping Bobby on the back.)

But tell me Bro, can you hook me up with some of that primo product of yours?  We been missing dat all da while you been gone.

BOBBY

(glancing nervously around)

Sorry, Man.  Not right now.  I’m… Kinda between suppliers right now.  Sor’ta laying low, ya know.  In fact, I was hoping I could crash with my sister for a little while.

CHICO

(Glancing towards the red door of Lolo’s building.)

Lolo ain’t here right now, man.  She took little Johnny down to Welfare to sign up for benefits.  But, hey, Bro, come on up to the crib, say “hi” to my mom and have a beer while you’re waitin.

CHICO and Bobby head up the stairs of CHICO’s house laughing and clapping one another on the back companionably.

INT. WELFARE OFFICE, DAY

Numerous downtrodden looking people are scattered around a drab, government issue room — some dozing others, including Lolo, with BOBBY on her lap, are watching a TV hanging near the ceiling in one corner of the room.

INSERT: CLOSE UP OF TV SCREEN – MOMENTS LATER

TV NEWS ANCHOR #1

(a typical female talking head)

…and for all you gals out there who are in fighting good shape, try outs for the new reality TV show, “Final Round,” featuring female boxers, and filming here in Chicago, is having open tryouts this weekend at St. Andrew’s gym.  So if you think you’ve got what it takes, go on down there and check it out.

TV NEWS ANCHOR #2

(a typical male talking head)

Sounds like fun.  Can we expect to see you down there, Laura?

TV NEWS ANCHOR #1

(laughing)

No, Jerry.  I’m more of a lover than a fighter..

CUT TO:

P.O.V. CLOSE UP OF LOLO’S FACE

T.V. News Anchor #1 continuing (O.C.).

TV NEWS ANCHOR #1

But I hear the first prize will be $10,000.00.  So good luck all of you ladies out there.

Lolo’s eyes widen at the mention of the $10,000.00 and she appears to sit up a bit straighter in contrast to her usual slumpy, apathetic posture.  She is actively listening for more details as a CASEWORKER emerges from the back office.

CASEWORKER

Lolita Demateo?  Is there a Lolita Demateo here?

Resuming her usual hang-dog expression, Lolo slowly stands and, balancing baby Johnny on one hip, follows the caseworker towards a back office.

INT. CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

Various boxers are working out with speed bags, heavy bags and jump ropes.  Two boxers spar in a large boxing ring which dominates the center of the room.  FIN, “THE FORCE” FLANNERY, the quintessential old former fighter turned trainer, avuncular,  demonstrating  the scars of his prior fighting days,   moves slowly through the gym, in a tattered red hoodie and sweat pants,  offering pointers here and there to the various young men who are training.

FIN

Yelling towards one of the guys in the boxing ring.

That’s right Hector, easy now.  Don’t blow your wad in the first five minutes.  Keep up that left hand.  Keep it up.

Fin is approached by MARIA “KNOCKOUT” DE JESUS, a muscular, heavily tattooed young woman dressed in traditional boxer’s shorts and a t-shirt proclaiming “KNOCKOUT” in bold black lettering along with the image of a boxing glove.

MARIA

Fin, I wanna run something by you.

FIN

By me?

(looking surprised)

You’re a grown woman, Sweetheart.

MARIA

It’s about boxing.

FIN

Oh, well, why’nt ya say so.

MARIA

(Sitting down on a nearby bench)

You know how you always say we gotta preserve the dignity of the sport and all?

FIN

If we don’t, who will. Ya know we don’t get the respect other sports do.  

(Warming in to his favorite topic)

FIN (CONT’D)

  We got no benefits.  No pension plan.   Hell, half the time we ain’t even got no insurance.  We go in there and get our brains knocked out ain’t even got no way to pay our our hospital bills.

(Maria listens respectfully to what is obviously a favorite topic for Fin)

FIN (CONT’D)

    When we’re too old ta fight, some a us are picking tin cans out’ta the alley.  Maybe homeless.  What other athlete gets treated that way?  Tell me.  If we ain’t got our dignity, Sweetheart, we ain’t got nothing.

MARIA

I know, Fin, I get it.  That’s why I wanted to ask you first before I did anything.

FIN

So ask, already.

MARIA

There’s this competition.  It’s like a reality TV show.  There’s no ranking or official sanctioning. Anybody can enter.  I was thinkin a going to the try outs.

FIN

Whada’ya wanna do that for?  You got  ranking.  You were a serious contender.  And you are a great trainer.  This sounds like it’s gonna be a bunch’a phoney baloney crap ta me. Reality TV show.

(snorting in derision)

MARIA

First prize is $10,000.00.  And there’s a lot a programs and stuff we could put together with that kinda money…maybe make a donation to that foundation that’s studying head injuries. 

FIN

(Shaking his head resignedly)

Ya, well, I think your gonna be disappointed.  But the money.  I could understand that.  Look, Sweetheart, do what ya gotta do.  Ya always got my blessing.  But remember ya got a real rep to protect.  Do me a favor and don’t get sucked into no nonsense.  Now get back ta work, Knockout.

He claps Maria on the back in a comradely fashion and walks off as she flashes a “victory” sign towards the ring and climbing into the ring playfully unleashes a few well executed combinations on the YOUNG BOXER standing there before jumping out.   YOUNG BOXER shakes his head, smiling, watching a high-energy Maria bouncing around and shadow boxing playfully.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

Bobby and Lolo are eating pizza from a box on a cluttered folding table.  Bobby periodically offers small pieces to Johnny who he is holding on his lap.

LOLO

Bobby, you know I love you and all that but since Mom passed I hardly been taking  care of me and Johnny.

(The baby coos as he eats a chunk of pizza)

Manny was by earlier and told me if I don’t have some money for him by next week, he’s throwin us out…so I’d like ta help you but…

BOBBY

Look, Sis, I know times are tough.  Always have been for us since Grandpa died. 

(glancing at the boxing posters)

Man, I can still see us hiding in that closet

(glancing at bi-fold doors of closet))

BOBBY (CONT’D)

When one of Mom’s “boyfriends” would get too rowdy.

LOLO

I really hated that.  Us in there for hours with nothin to eat or drink.  And you would always hold my hand and tell me how when it was over you’d make Mom buy us some ice cream with whatever money her “boyfriend” gave her.

BOBBY

And she always did, too, didn’t she?  You know I always did my best to take care of us.  But now I’m in some trouble and I don’t think ice cream is gonna help.

LOLO

What’s the matter?

BOBBY

It’s not important.  It’s just…I had something, a problem,  with some…uh…Business associates on the West Coast.  A deal went…bad.  Now I gotta lay low for a while, real low, till I figure out what’s next.  I promise, It’ll only be for a little while.

LOLO

(giving her brother a hug)

O.K. Bobby.  OK.  I got nothing.  But what’s mine is yours.  Maybe you can even help me out a little bit while you’re here. There’s some place I was thinking of going this weekend and maybe you could watch Johnny for me.

Bobby smiles gratefully at his sister and nods.

BOBBY

Sure thing. 

(throwing the chuckling baby up gently in the air as Lolo watches tolerantly)

Me and Johnny can spend some quality Uncle/Nephew time together, right Little Man?

INT. BENJAMIN (BENNY) EICHOFF’S OFFICE, DAY

A huge modern glass and chrome office with an expansive view of the city.  Clad in expensive, conservative business clothing, THE THREE EICHOFF COUSINS (BENJAMIN (BENNY), dark haired with bangs, KENNITH (KENNY), a mop of curly blond hair, & LEONARD (LENNY), chubby, balding & squeaky voiced,  are clustered in front of a giant video monitor arguing, in a slapstick, Three-Stooges-updated sort of way, over the DINGING, PINGING & EXPLOSION SOUNDS of a video game.  These are rich kids who have never worked a serious day’s work in their lives and who imagine themselves to be way cooler than they really are — as evidenced by the red alligator print cowboy boots jutting out from beneath Benny’s suit pants.

BENNY

(authoratatively)

No, no, no, no.  That is not the way to get to the next level.

LENNY

(sarcastically in his habitually squeekey voice)

Says the guy whose never been to seventh level in Masters of the Universe.

BENNY

(aggressively,  all up in Lenny’s face)

Says the guy who got his dad to keep you two clowns on the station’s payroll for the last two years.

LENNY

So what.  My Dad carried us for two years before that.

KENNY

(annoyed)

And my Dad carried us the whole way thru college.  But you don’t see me asking everyone to invest in an advertising and PR budget for some hairbrained reality TV show.

LENNY

(smacking his hand against his forehead, Stooge style, and dragging it down his face dramatically)

Oh boy,  now you’re going to get him going on that topic again.

BENNY

Turning his attention away from the video game, whacking Kenny  on the chest, Stooge style, and speaking authoritatively

BENNY (CONT’D)

Hey, “Final Round” is not hairbrained.  Hot babes running around the ring half naked and sweating.  A good fight.  What’s not to like?  It’s genius I tell you. 

KENNY

Cut the crap, BEN. 

(smacking Benny playfully on the head)

We all know the only reason you got your dad to let you do “Final Round” was so you could make YOLANTA a Reality TV star…

LENNY

Yeah.  And so’as you could put the $10,000 prize money in her pocket and keep her dating you for a little while longer.

LENNY (CONT’D)

(earnestly)

What’s so special about this chick anyways, Benny?

BENNY

(like a schoolboy with an important secret)

Man…she is the sexiest girl I’ve ever known.  She comes up with stuff I never even heard of.

KENNY

(smirking)

Even what with all your extensive experience with the ladies…

LENNY

(laughing)

Like that cheerleader, what was her name, Ben thought he was dating her but she only wanted to borrow his car to go out with some other Dude.

Benny lunges towards his cousin who dodges out of the way.

Benny

I told you never to mention that…

The office door bursts open and, as if on cue, in marches YOLANTA ROMANOV, an Eastern European sexpot, totally hot, bright dyed red hair, an Eastern European accent, and an ego matched only by her gigantic rack.  She is dressed in body revealing sportswear including a skin tight top with a boxing glove over each breast. Close behind her is TYRONE (TJ) JOHNSON, her “personal trainer,” handsome, African American, a jock obviously in love with himself and his own physique, dressed in athletic gear and wearing his trademark gold leather high tops monogrammed with a black sequined “T” on the right side and “J” on the left.  Around his neck two golden gloves hang on a thick gold chain.  Rounding out this entourage are YOLANTA’s THREE SKANKY BLOND FEMALE SIDEKICKS.  The group is followed into the office by the receptionist, MISS KLINE, small, mousy, obsequious with cat-eye glasses from the first time they were popular and drab, old fashioned clothing.

MISS KLINE

(apologetically)

Sorry Mr. Eichoff.  I tried to stop them, but…

YOLANTA

(imperiously)

Venechka, you are hearing this miserable little woman.  She is admitting she is keeping me from you and now you must fire her for me, yes?

Benny rushes solicitously over to YOLANTA’s side.

BENNY

Now Yolo, let’s not get all upset.  Miss Kline is my Dad’s secretary.  She is just filling in over here for today and she didn’t know…I didn’t even know…you would be coming by with your…friends and your

(glancing with annoyance at TJ)

…um…Personal trainer.

YOLANTA pouts a little and finally offers Benny a coquettish smile.

YOLANTA

Is O.K., Venechka.  You are givng me some money, yes?  And I am taking everyone

(gesturing to her entourage)

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

out to lunch, eh?  Then we are not getting in way of your

(emphasizing dramatically)

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

important business.

She glances disdainfully at Lenny and Kenny who watch with rapt interest as Benny, glancing distrustfully towards TJ, pulls out a wad of bills out and begins pealing them off into YOLANTA’s outstretched hand.

BENNY

(hopefully)

So,  I’m going to see you later tonight, aren’t I?

YOLANTA

(board)

I am calling you later, Venya.  First I make some personal training for my T.V. Star job in the “Final Round,”  yes?  T.J. is showing me some special moves.

(she glances suggestively at TJ)

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

Right, Tymoosha.

Benny looks dejected but YOLANTA ignores this.  Blowing him a  kiss and winking at Kenny & Lenny,  YOLANTA turns around and sweeps out of  the office followed by her retinue.

KENNY

Tell me again, Ben,  why we have to invest our own money in a publicity campaign to make her a reality T.V. star?

BENNY

Because my dad agreed to let me do “Final Round”  only if I financed the Advertising & PR myself and, more importantly,  because when you two clowns

(dragging his hand against their chins in a gentle tap)

BENNY (CONT’D)

came up with your own hairbrained schemes over the years and I have always invested my money in those.

KENNY

(looking at Lenny)

I don’t know…can’t you get some free PR?  What do think Len, are we in?

LENNY

Certainly.  It’s only money and us cousins gotta stick together, right?  Now, tell us some more about that girls tricks and why you think she’s worth all this.

PULL BACK OFF THE THREE COUSINS who can be observed gesturing & laughing like naughty school boys.

INT. ST ANDREW’S GYMNASIUM, DAY

IN THE CENTER OF THE ROOM IS A REGULATION SIZE BOXING RING SURROUNDED BY ROWS OF BLEACHER SEATS. IT DOMINATES THE ROOM.  PAN CROWD including young women dressed in boxing cloths, cardboard signs displaying numbers hung around their necks.  Some are more athletic looking others more show-business.  Some are accompanied by coaches or friends others cluster together in groups. They are socializing, stretching, warming up, wrapping their hands or just sitting waiting.  Lots of tattoos, shaved hair designs, piercings,  bright dye jobs and over the top cloths.  THERE IS A NONSPECIFIC BUZZ OF CONVERSATION.  CLOSE IN ON LOLO plainly dressed, sitting alone and looking intimidated.

The matchmaker, an older man in black pants and a white long sleeved dress shirt, walking with the characteristic stiff legged gait of a former boxer,  climbs into the ring. The room quiets down.

MATCHMAKER:

O.K. Everyone.  The try outs for the reality T.V. show, “Final Round,” are about to begin.  When your number is called, you will enter the ring.  When the bell sounds, you will fight the opponent that’s in the ring with you.  When the bell sounds again, you will stop fighting and leave the ring.  For those who are asked to stay in touch,  be sure the men at that table

(pointing to Benny, Kenny and Lenny who are seated at a table ringside)

MATCHMAKER: (CONT’D)

have all your contact information.  If you are chosen for the show, you will compete in a series of elimination bouts and whoever wins the final round will win a cash prize of $10,000.00 and the runner up will get $5,000.00.  So good luck everyone.

Pull back off the ring and we see various contestants entering and exiting the ring. Some shots of punches being thrown.

Cut to YOLANTA, who is not wearing a numbered placard, TJ (wearing his trademark monogrammed rhinestone kicks) and the three Skankie Sidekicks entering the gym.  YOLANTA struts around looking board obviously aware that all this is for her benefit.  TJ openly flirts with other women whenever she is not watching him but acts devoted towards her when she is.  And the Three Skankie Sidekicks giggle and act stupid.

 Meanwhile, it is obvious that, without regard to skills, good looking contestants are being directed to the table where the three cousins sit while unattractive contestants are being steered directly to the exit door.

CLOSE UP: BOXING RING ST ANDREW’S GYMNASIUM, DAY

Lolo’s name is called and she climes into the ring where a gigantic girl with crazy looking eyes and wild hair is waiting. The bell sounds and the two begin swinging wildly towards one another with no contact being made.  Clearly neither one knows anything about boxing but Lolo is totally outsized by her opponent.  The Eichoff cousins shake their heads at the sorry spectacle.  The matchmaker glances towards Benny and makes a throat slit gesture with his hand and Benny is about to agree when he glances at the list of contestants. 

INSERT OF BENNY’S HAND HOLDING THE LIST OF CONTESTANTS SHOWING LOLO’S NUMBER AND NAME “DEMATEO.”

INT. ST ANDREW’S GYMNASIUM, MOMENTS LATER

BENNY

Shakes his head “no” and holds up his hand in a “wait” gesture to the matchmaker and turns to his cousins.

BENNY (CONT’D)

Hey, Ken, look at this.  The little one’s name is “DeMateo.”  Wasn’t there a famous, champion boxer named DeMateo?  He was killed in the ring  from a brain injury or something?  Wonder if she could be any relation   that former champ?  DeMateo…Johnny DeMateo was his name?

Kenny fiddles around with his ­i-phone and shows the result to Benny as the bell sounds and Lolo and her opponent are seen exiting the ring.  Benny gestures the matchmaker to send Lolo over to him and, looking surprised, she heads over to the ringside table.

BENNY (CONT’D)

So, Lolita DeMateo, hunh?  DeMateo’s a big name in boxing.

Lolo waits quietly.

BENNY (CONT’D)

You any relation to the Johnny DeMateo — the one who died in the ring from a brain injury?

Lolo considers whether to admit this or not.  Finally,

LOLO

He was my grandfather.

BENNY

O.K. well…good job up there.

(showing her the sign up sheet)

BENNY (CONT’D)

This your current phone number and address?

Lolo nods yes.

BENNY (CONT’D)

O.K. So you’ll be hearing from us.  O.K.?

LOLO

(looking surprised)

Well, umm, thank you, I guess  Thank you very much.

As she turns and walks away, still looking confused, Benny turns to his two cousins smiling.

BENNY

And there, gentlemen, goes your free publicity for “Final Round.” 

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

Lolo and Bobby are eating and feeding Johnny fast food burgers and fries out of a bag.  As usual, the place is a jumble of discarded clothing, fast food containers and baby toys.

LOLO

Yeah.  I couldn’t believe it when they called me either.  It’s not like I beat Godzilla girl in the try outs.  They even told me I gotta get myself some boxing moves.  But, hey, if they’re given me a shot at $10,000.00, I’m takin it.

BOBBY

I get it.  $10,000 if you win and $5,000 just for making it to the final round.  Only problem is you ain’t no boxer.

LOLO

So…I was thinkin maybe besides watching Johnny when I’m not here you could give me some boxing pointers.

BOBBY

(smiling at Johnny & playfully interacting with him)

Johnny, no problem.  But, Sis,  you know I ain’t no boxer neither.  If you really wanna do this, you need to get your moves from a real fighter.  You should go see Grandpa’s old trainer, Fin Flannery.  Last I heard he was still working out of Chicago City Gym on the West Side.

INT. CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

Boxers, all male except for Maria De Jesus, are stretching, jumping rope, socializing, punching heavy bags, speed bags and each other in the ring.  A few blinged out girlfriends are watching their guys train.  Fin walks around dispensing occasional wisdom to the fighters.  Lolo, wearing flip-flops,  enters the gym looking overwhelmed and is pointed in Fin’s direction by one of the elaborately manicured girlfriend observers. Lolo approaches him shyly but he remains focused on two boxers sparring in the ring and barely notices her.

LOLO

Mr. Flannery?  I…I, uh,  think you used to be a friend of my Grandpa’s.

FIN

(without turning to look at her)

Zat so, Sweetheart.  And who might that be?

LOLO

His name was Johnny, Johnny DeMateo.

Fin spins around giving his full attention to Lolo as he looks her up and down.

FIN

I could see it.  You got his eyes and…say, you ain’t that little one that used to come in here when he was training…little Lolita?

Lolo shakes her head yes.

FIN (CONT’D)

If he hadn’t got that bad hit in his last fight, he would probably be champion a da world today.

(with a far away look in his eyes)

FIN (CONT’D)

So, what brings you down here to your Grandpa’s old stomping grounds?

LOLO

I need help.

FIN

Don’t we all, Sweetheart.  But if I’d ever had two nickels to rub together I’d a given’em to your Grandpa back when he got whacked.  Maybe things might a turned out differently.

LOLO

No.  Not money.  I don’t need money…well…I do but that’s not what I am asking you for.

FIN

(appearing thoughtful)

So what then?

LOLO

Boxing.  I need you to show me some boxing moves.

FIN

(looking Lolo over dubiously)

For what?

LOLO

TV.  There’s a T.V. show called “Final Round” and they…they picked me to be on it but they said I need to get a few boxing moves.  Bobby, Roberto, my brother, he thought maybe you could help me.

FIN

Yeah, yeah.  Final Round, I heard all about it.  Figures they’d be telling people to go out and get

(disgustedly)

FIN (CONT’D)

“a few moves”:

FIN (CONT’D)

But this gym ain’t some show business joke.  If you want me to teach ya boxing, ya gotta learn boxing.  Take it serious.  You gotta train and all that.  Otherwise, I’m sorry but even for your Grandpa Johnny I can’t help you.  So…you decide?

Fin holds his hand out and reluctantly Lolo shakes it.  Then she heads back outside.  FOLLOW LOLO OUT TO

EXT. IN FRONT OF CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

Lolo pulls a candy bar out of her purse and eats it while waiting for an approaching CTA bus.  Bus pulls up to the bus stop in front of the gym.  The doors open, Lolo climbs on, the doors close and the bus pulls away.

EXT. LINCOLN PARK ZOO, DAY

Lolo & Bobby wheel Johnny thru the zoo in a rickety looking stroller while munching on hot dogs and French fries which they share with him.

LOLO

So I’m hoping I don’t hafta work out too hard with Finn.  You know exercise was never really my thing.

BOBBY

Mine neither.  Remember how grandpa used to drink all those special crazy concoctions and he would never eat a hot dog or nothing?  And all that running and jumping rope.

LOLO

I never saw him sit down.

BOBBY

(laughing)

Yeah.  I could never do it.

LOLO

Well I need that money.  And it looks like if I want the money I got no choice.

Just then Johnny cries out in delight as he spots a monkey jumping around in its cage.

JOHNNY

Monkey!!

Lolo, Bobby and Johnny mimic the monkey sounds and gestures before dissolving into a fit of shared giggles.

EXT. IN FRONT OF CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

A CAT bus pulls up to the stop and Lolo disembarks in a rumpled sun-dress and flower print Keds gymshoes.  In one hand she holds a donut balanced on top of a cup of coffee.  In the other is a clear plastic bag in which we can see a pair of denim jean shorts.  FOLLOW HER INTO

INT. CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

Upon entering the gym, Lolo sets her bag onto a bench by the door.  Her donut slips off onto the floor and she bends over, picks it up and takes a bite out of it.  Two boxers conversing nearby (one holding bottled water and the other an orange) exchange a disgusted glance and shake their heads.  Fin and Maria see Lolo and cross across the gym to her.

FIN

So, Lolita, this here’s Maria “Knockout” DeJesus.  She’s gonna be workin wit’cha.

Lolo glances apprehensively at Maria’s muscular body which is covered from top to bottom with numerous tattoos.  Maria, smiling with genuine warmth, holds out her hand to Lolo.

MARIA

So, I guess I’m gonna be training you and we are gonna be competitors too.

LOLO

(looking confused)

Competitors?

MARIA

Yeah.  Final Round.  I hear you made it in.   I did too.

(clapping Lolo on the back in a comradely fashion)

MARIA (CONT’D)

So, whaddaya say we jump in the ring and I will show ya some basics.

FIN

(smiling, satisfied)

O.K. Ladies, I’ll be over there working with Rickey if youse all need me.

Lolo pulls on her denim street shorts and removes her dress to reveal a sports bra.  As Lolo climbs clumsily into the ring Maria glances questioningly at her flip flops but then shrugs her shoulders and climbs in as well. 

MARIA

So, you always wanna keep your balance

(demonstrating proper stance)

And when ya throw a punch, you always wanna follow through

(begins to demonstrate a punch)

CUT TO:

INSERT – MOMENTS LATER

As Lolo’s foot slips off her flip flop she accidentally trips directly into the line of Maria’s demonstration punch.  CLOSE UP LOLO’S POV as we see Maria’s fist heading directly towards her face.  SWITCH TO VIEWER POV Seconds later, it lands and we see blood squirting from Lolo’s nose.

Maria stops immediately and drops both arms to her side as the hit was entirely unintentional.  She tries to approach Lolo to assist her but Lolo turns her back, climbs out of the ring, grabs her plastic bag and sundress and exits the gym leaving Maria standing alone in the ring looking perplexed.  Fin can be seen, across the gym, watching sadly.

EXT. IN FRONT OF CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

Lolo climbs onto the CTA bus and, head down, ignores the stares of other passengers at her bloodstained face and cloths.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

Amid the ever present clutter, Lolo, still in her bloodstained clothing,  and Bobby are sharing a giant bottle of pop and a pizza which, as usual, they are sharing with little Johnny.  LOUD KNOCKING ON THE DOOR

Bobby slips behind the curtains as Lolo opens the door to Manny.

LOLO

I know.  I know I promised I would have the rent by today.  But I just need a few more days.  I promise.  I will have it for you.

MANNY

(looking curiously at Lolo’s bloodstained clothing)

Allright.  I shouldn’t do this…but out’a respect for your Moms and Grandpa, you got till this time next week.  But when I come back next time, I’m bringing some muscle wit me.  If you ain’t got the money, we gonna move you right out right then and there, for real.  Understood?

LOLO

I get it.

(closing the door in his face)

Bobby slips out from behind the curtain.

BOBBY

Jerk!!  He can’t do that.  There’s laws.

LOLO

So what?  If he doesn’t want us here he’s gonna get us out one way or another.  I don’t know maybe if I had more time,  I could go back and work harder.  If I could win that show  our problems would be over, for a while, right?

BOBBY

I don’t know.

 (glancing at the bloodstained cloths)

BOBBY (CONT’D)

But I got an idea.  You know that little club on the corner right down at the end of the street?  The “Corner Club”?  That’s a real popular place.  Lots’a people lining up to get in all the time.  Maybe I could go down and see if they need another doorman or a bouncer or a bartender or something.  If I change my look, you know wear a disguise, maybe I could earn a few bucks for the rent and still lay low.

LOLO

You think?

BOBBY

Yeah.  But, Sis, if you go back down there for this boxing stuff, I think you gotta take it serious like.  You can’t be playin if you wanna make it to the end.

LOLO

If I could win I would go to beauty school.

BOBBY

If you could win, I would open a garage.

LOLO

We could all go to Paris France.

BOBBY

No Spain.  I always wanted to see a bullfight.

They hug each other and start throwing Johnny’s stuffed animal toys playfully around and playing peek-a-boo with Johnny asking him if he would rather go to France or Spain.

EXT. THE CORNER CLUB, NIGHT

BODY BUILDER BOUNCER is carding patrons entering the club.  FOLLOW PATRONS INTO

INT. THE CORNER CLUB, NIGHT

Across dance floor,  crowded with colorful patrons, including punk, goth, etc., YOLANTA and TJ can be seen seated with a group of friends in a large circular booth against the wall.  PAN ACROSS DANCE FLOOR ONTO THEIR BOOTH

TJ

Since you got so much sway with this dude, how comes I ain’t an announcer or something by now?   I been had some acting lessons and…well shit…just look at me. (Smiling arrogantly)

While talking, TJ winks at one of his buddies and passes something that could be a tip to a WAITRESS BRINGING DRINKS to their table.  Waitress looks at what he gave her as she walks away from the table.

INSERT a card reading:  “I am TJ and you can call me at (312) 555-2020.”

Waitress crumples the card up in disgust.  BACK TO:

YOLANTA

You will see, Tymosha.  When I get $10,000.00  We are going to California.  I get you screen test like you want and you become famous movie star.

TJ

(turning to give her a sloppy kiss while winking again at his buddy)

Now that’s more like it Baby.

YOLANTA

(pouting)

You are still loving me when you are famous?

TJ

(winking once again at his buddy)

You know it Babe.  Come on, let’s get outta here and go back to my place and I will show you how much

(mimicking her accent)

I ­am loving you…

YOLANTA giggles and they begin to navigate the crowded dance floor towards the front door waiving and acknowledging occasional acquaintances along the way.  Upon reaching the door, TJ greets the Body Builder Bouncer with a friendly clap on the back and then notices Bobby, whose hair has gone from dark brown to bleached platinum blond and who is wearing a fedora and sunglasses indoors while carding entering patrons.  TJ looks at Body Builder Bouncer as if to say:  Whose that?

BODY BUILDER BOUNCER

(shrugging, lip syncs)

New guy.

INT. CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

Lolo enters dressed in loose fitting boxer shorts, a sports bra and lace-up tennis shoes.  She is carrying a carton of milk and a banana.  Spotting Maria she walks directly over to her.

LOLO

Hey, I’m sorry about how I acted the other day.  I want to give it another shot if that’s o.k. with you.

MARIA

(glancing towards Fin who smiles and nods yes)

Let’s go.

Lolo & Maria enter the ring and can be seen talking and working out together.

FADE OUT\FADE IN:

A sweaty Lolo hugs Maria and climbs out of the ring.  FOLLOW HER TO

EXT. IN FRONT OF CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

An approaching CTA bus slows to stop for Lolo but she waives the driver on and sets off sprinting down the street.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

There is a newfound order throughout the room. A bowl of fruit sits on the counter and Johnny holds a sippy cup full of milk. Lolo is playing with Johnny in front of a spotless coffee table upon which there is a drinking glass filled with wild picked flowers and a newspaper.

INSERT: NEWSPAPER HEADLINE:  “Legendary Boxing Great’s Granddaughter Carries On Family Tradition In Popular New Reality T.V. Show.”

LOUD KNOCK AT THE DOOR announces the Manny’s arrival.  Opening the door, Lolo shoves a handful of bill into his hand and shuts the door in his face.

CUT TO:

INT. HALLWAY OUTSIDE LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

Manny looks down in surprise at the money in his hand.  Than, shaking his head and smiling he pockets the money and saunters off down the stairs whistling.

INSERT: CLOSE UP OF T.V. SCREEN

TV NEWS ANCHOR #2

So, Laura, what do you think about former legendary boxer Johnny DeMateo’s granddaughter maybe making it to the final elimination bouts of that Reality TV Boxing Show, “Final Round.”

TV NEWS ANCHOR #1

Well, Jerry, I’m all for it.  You know it was a total tragedy when Johnny DeMateo,  who they called “The Professor” because of his intellectual approach to the sweet sport, basically died in the ring from a blow to the head.

TV NEWS ANCHOR #2

But it wasn’t instantly, was it?  He had a concussion but he was still standing up and even fighting for a minute.

TV NEWS ANCHOR #1

That’s right.  It was sort of a scandal. 

TV NEWS ANCHOR #2

I remember that. He was in a coma for a while before they declared him brain dead and people said it might have been different if referees had known more about traumatic brain injuries and  had stopped the fight sooner.

TV NEWS ANCHOR #1

That’s right, Jerry.  DeMateo gave his all to boxing.  So, if his family can benefit in any way from the sport, well, I’m all for it.

TV NEWS ANCHOR #2

I’m with you Laura…and now on to the international news with Erick Rodgers.

INT. TELEVISION STUDIO, DAY

A large room with cameras and props.  Numerous “Final Round” contestants are milling around socializing.  There is a hum of nonspecific conversation.  ­The Eichoff cousins enter the room in their usual flurry of Three Stoges like activity — Benny holding a bunch of papers and Kenny & Lenny holding placards marked “A” & “B” respectively.  Benny positions himself in the middle of his two cousins — who are holding up their placards on either side of him — and clears his throat.  The conversational hum dies down and contestants direct their attention to the three cousins.

BENNY

So, today is the day you have all been waiting for…to find out if you have made it to the final elimination bouts of the show.

Two young women towards the back of the room glance at each other.  One makes the sign of the cross and the other crosses her fingers.

BENNY (CONT’D)

So when you hear your name called, you will be directed to either Group “A”

(gesturing towards Kenny)

­or Group “B”

(gesturing towards Lenny and accidentally poking him in the eye)

If you are in the group that’s staying, you will be given a check to purchase your gear to wear for the final elimination bouts…and if you’re in the group that’s not staying…for insurance reasons…you will be asked to accompany our security guard

(gesturing to GUARD standing off to the side)

­immediately out of the building…so…any questions?

(glancing quickly around the room but not allowing any time for questions)

BENNY (CONT’D)

O.K. here goes:  Tamika Taylor, Group “A”

An very attractive and flirty young African American girl bounces over towards Kenny smiling widely…

BENNY (CONT’D)

Darcy Davis, Group “B”

A very muscular, bad ass but rather unattractive, young African American girl “pimp rolls” slowly over towards Lenny with a “Never fuck with me” expression on her face.

INT. TELEVISION STUDIO, MINUTES LATER

Groups “A” and “B” are filling up — “A” with the prettier  contestants and “B” with less attractive but more competent looking contestants.

BENNY

(with more fanfare than for other contestants)

YOLANTA Romanov, Group “A”

As YOLANTA, clad head-to-toe in leapordskin, sashays over to Group “A” we hear BENNY’S VOICE (O.S.)

BENNY (CONT’D)

Maria De Jesus, Group “B”

CUT TO:

CLOSE UP OF TWO CONTESTANTS WAITING TO BE CALLED:  CONTESTANT #1 is blond and feminine dressed more for show than sport.  CONTESTANT #2 is a serious looking Oriental girl more appropriately dressed for boxing.

CONTESTANT #2

(to Contestant #1)

I hope I get Group “B.”  That DeJesus chick has sick skills.  I bet “Group “B” will be the group that’s going to stay.

CONTESTANT #1

(nodding her head in agreement)

You might be right because  that one girl in “A” in the leopard skin 

(inclining her head towards YOLANTA)

Bitch has never even had a fight yet.

WIDE SHOT OF STUDIO AS THE LAST TWO CONTESTANTS ARE CALLED.  We see Contestant #1 moving towards Group “A” and Contestant #2 moving towards Group “B.”

BENNY

O.K Group “B,” thanks again for your participation.  Hope you all had fun.  And now, security will escort you all out of the building.

CUT TO:

MONTAGE OF CONTESTANTS FACES – MOMENTS LATER

Looks of shock and disbelief on the faces of many contestants in both groups.  Lolo makes eye contact with Maria and holds her hands up and mouths: “What the fuck.”  Only YOLANTA appears unfazed and slightly board by the whole process.  As Group “B” files out of the room with security, Benny starts handing checks out to Group “A” contestants who are high-fiving one another and dancing around gleefully.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

Lolo enters carrying a full bag of groceries with celery, Italian bread and some red tulips sticking out of the bag.  She pulls out a box of children’s animal cookies and gives one to Johnny who eats it as she sets about putting away the groceries and straightening up the already tidy room.

BOBBY

(giving his sister a quick hug)

Gotta go, Lo, or I’ll be late for work.

LOLO

What about dinner?  I’m cookin healthy tonight.

BOBBY

Sorry sis…no can do.  I’ll grab something later.

     (he hands her a wad of

      bills)

LOLO

Well, hey, Bobby, just…Thanks for watching Johnny and for…everything.

BOBBY

(earnestly)

No.  I thank you and, you know this already but, I’m, you know, real proud of everything you’re doing.

Rushes out the door in his fedora and sun glasses.

INT. HALLWAY IN FRONT OF YOLANTA’S APARTMENT, EVENING

As Benny approaches YOLANTA’s front door he smooths down his hair and holds his hand in front of his mouth to check his breath, sprays some breath freshener and then, wearing a foolish grin, he knocks.  YOLANTA, in a bra and panties, opens the door a crack and looks at him with obvious surprise.

BENNY

(attempting hip bravado)

Hey, Babe, did you forget we’ve got plans for tonight?

YOLANTA

Oh, no.  Not forgetting.  Just…

(obviously stalling)

BENNY

(pushing past her into the living room)

So, what are we waiting for.  Finish getting dressed and let’s go.

YOLANTA

Sure.  Sure.  O.K.  You are watching T.V.. I am getting dressed.

As Benny sits down on the sofa, she turns on the T.V. for him and heads into the bedroom looking uncomfortable.  Benny half watches the TV while glancing around the living room when his glance happens to fall on the floor beneath an end table across the room.

BENNY’S POV: 

A pair of rhinestone studded high topped sneakers with black  monogrammed “T” and “J” are casually laying on the floor under the table.

CLOSE UP OF BENNY’S FACE

 As he glances towards the bedroom door Benny realizes that TJ must be somewhere in the apartment.  DRAW OFF BENNY TO FULL SHOT OF LIVING ROOM MOMENTS LATER.

YOLANTA emerges, fully dressed, from the bedroom and grabs Benny by the arm.

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

So OK handsome.  Where we are going?  Someplace fancy for early dinner and then I sneak you into lady’s room…  And…you know…like that other time, yes?  But I must be home very, very early tonight for important telephone call.

Casting a last crestfallen look towards the rhinestone high tops, Benny  follows YOLANTA quietly out of the apartment.  CUT TO

INT. YOLANTA’S BEDROOM

The closet door opens and TYRONE emerges, tip toing thru the apartment and quietly letting himself out the front door.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

The coffee table is set, with mismatched place settings for two — a scarf serves as a table cloth and a drinking glass holds the red tulips.  Maria is sitting on the couch in front of the coffee table as Lolo brings over food from the galley kitchen.

MARIA

Wow.  This is real nice, Lolo, but, you know, you don’t got to…I’m O.K. And, hey, Fin always said it was some sort a set up.  I’m glad for you to still be in it though and don’t worry,  I’ll keep on training you just like before.

LOLO

I just can’t believe it.  We both know you should’a made it before me…before anyone.  You were the only real boxer there.  And that YOLANTA, girl, she’s never even stepped into the ring…what’s with that?

Pausing to eat a fork full of spaghetti.

LOLO (CONT’D)

So, anyways, I know you said you wouldn’t take half my expense money they gave us, but I…I wanted to get you something for all your help.

Turning to reach behind the sofa, Lolo pulls out a large, festive gift bag and hands it to Maria who reaches past the colorful tissue paper and removes a set of pink leather boxing gloves.

LOLO (CONT’D)

I know you said yours were getting sorta worn out…so I…

MARIA

(smiling dubiously but with warmth)

Pink!!

Lolo starts clearing the dinner dishes and Maria begins to play with Johnny who is entranced with the pink boxing gloves.  Lolo watches them smiling and then noticing the large amount of spaghetti still left, turns to Maria.

LOLO

Hey, would you mind playing with Johnny for a couple minutes more so I can run down the street and take some of this food and change from the rent money to my brother?

MARIA

(Playfully holding up one of the gloves for Johnny to throw punches at)

Sure.  No hurry.  Our training session is just starting…right little Dude.

EXT. IN FRONT OF CORNER CLUB, NIGHT

Bobby and the Body Builder Bouncer are working the door, carding the usual flamboyant array of young club denizens, Lolo approaches the club holding the plate of spaghetti up over her head.

LOLO

Yo, Bobby, dinner.

Simultaneously a cab pulls up to the curb and deposits TJ and YOLANTA, who seems high and is staggering slightly, onto the curb in front of the club.  Disregarding the long line of waiting patrons, they strut imperiously to the front of the line and are about to be waived through by Body Builder Bouncer when YOLANTA turns back in response to an overheard conversation occurring between two club patrons waiting in line.

UNNAMED CLUB PATRON #1

(pointing towards Lolo)

Hey, look, isn’t that that boxer girl from TV?

UNNAMED CLUB PATRON #2

(interrupting her texting to look)

Yeah…wow..Maybe we should see if she’ll take a selfie with us.

YOLANTA looks in Lolo’s direction and after a foggy moment or so recognizes her.

YOLANTA

(indignantly  to the unnamed club patrons)

That…little girl.  She is nothing.  They keep her for her name.  I am star of that TV show…I am winning this show and getting $10,000.00. 

As the club patrons step back slightly in response to this unexpected tirade Bobby and Lolo exchange an uncomfortable glance. 

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

Is already decided long time ago I will win!

Turning clumsily on her platform heals, YOLANTA staggers into the club behind TJ leaving an embarrassed Lolo and the waiting patrons standing on the sidewalk.

CUT TO:

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, SAME TIME FRAME, NIGHT

Maria is carefully showing Johnny about throwing a punch and he is gleefully following her instructions.  They are interrupted by a LOUD KNOCK AT THE DOOR and Maria places Johnny in his crib and opens the door to two scary looking Hispanic guys, JOAQUIN ESCOBAR, tall, muscle bound, hyper-macho, the strong silent type, always looking straight ahead and not making eye-contact and RIKKI RAMOS, androgynous,  slight but solidly built, long curly hair in a low-riding pony tail.    He is an engaging and incongruous blend of psycho-drug-gang-enforcer and chatty, maternal BFF.  Both men are attired head to tow in black leather biker cloths but Rikki announces his gay pride with a rainbow scarf tied on to his jacket.  Without waiting for invitation, they stride into the room.

RIKKI

(whose speaks with a pronounced Spanish accent combined with “gay” argot, smiling pleasently)

Soooo…allow me to introduce myself. 

(holding out a slightly limp-wristed hand)

I am Rikki Ramos.  And this georgeous man…

(glancing appreciatively at Joaquin)

He ­is my partner, Joaquin.  We are here to see our amigo Bobby.

MARIA

Who is Bobby?

RIKKI

(less cordial and slightly scolding)

Done be kidding around with me, Mija.  If you don know Bobby why you have so many pictures with his name? 

(pointing to the old Johnny DeMateo boxing posters)

MARIA

(protectively picking up Johnny)

Look I’m just here watching this baby for a friend … a girl.

RIKKI

Focusing on Johnny for the first time, Rikki turns to Joaquin fawning.

Oh look.  Que Lindo Chula.  Dju know I’ve been wanting one of these for us forever.

Turning companionably back to Maria who continues to hold the baby.

RIKKI

Oh Chure, we’ve got the Jack Russel Terrier and all.  But is no the same.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

(turning back to Joaquin, all serious now)

O.K.

(clapping his hands twice quickly)

Let’s go.

Joaquin quickly begins ransacking the room while Rikki plays peek a boo with Johnny who remains safely ensconced in Maria’s arms.  When Joaquin pulls out a blade and slices open both sofa cushions, Rikki looks sympathetically at Maria. 

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Trust me, mija, he is doing dju a favor on that one.  That color is so totally over a long time ago.  But those posters

(glancing at the boxing posters)

…vintage…

Seeing that the search has yielded nothing, Rikki holds up a hand to signal Joaquin to stop and directs his attention to Maria with a serious expression.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

So…Bobby has something it belongs to our friend Chuy.  So we be comming back for it later.

He makes a fawning “Bye Bye” gesture towards the baby as they head out the door.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Tell Bobby next time he is better have Chuy’s stuff or is a big problem for everyone.

After the door closes behind Rikki and Joaquin we see the door knob wiggle as they, incongruously,  check to be sure it is safely locked.  Maria places Johnny into his crib and is turning the slashed sofa cushions over to the “good” side when the door opens and Lolo enters talking excitedly.

LOLO

You will not believe what just happened at that club where my brother works…

She stops taking and stands still taking in the trashed room around her and then looks questioningly at Maria.

MARIA

Is your brother in some kind of trouble?

INT. RECEPTION AREA OF BENNY EICHOFF’S OFFICE, DAY

PINGS, DINGS AND CRASHING SOUNDS OF A VIDEO GAME CAN BE HEARD (O.C.) FROM WITHIN BENNY’S OFFICE.  Miss Kline sits primly  at the reception desk thumbing through a magazine when Lolo enters.

LOLO

I’m here to see…I mean…is Mr. Eichoff here?  I need to…

MISS KLINE

(imperiously)

Mr. Eichoff is in an important meeting     What is it you want?

LOLO

It’s about…never mind, I’ll wait to talk to him.

MISS KLINE

(turning back to her magazine)

Suit yourself.

INSERT: Clock On The Wall Showing Passage of Time.

The three Eichoff cousins tumble out of Benny’s office in their usual 3 Stooges way.

KENNY

That was not your real score.

LENNY

(Smacking his forehead and running his hand down his face)

You don’t understand the scoring system.

All three stop when they see Lolo sitting in the reception area.

LOLO

(to Benny)

Is it true?

BENNY

(looking confused and mildly irritated)

Is what true?

LOLO

That the winner of the show is already chosen?

BENNY

(now openly annoyed)

Look.  You’re getting your expense money, right?  And even if you don’t win and just make it to the final round you can still get yourself $5,000.00, right?

LOLO

Yes…but the winner…should be the winner…and Maria…

BENNY

(cutting her off)

Hey, if you want pure boxing…go sign up for the Golden Gloves or something.  Boxing is boxing and TV is TV.  So if you want to stay in “Final Round”  don’t tell me how to run my show, O.K.?

The three cousins continue out the door leaving a dejected looking Lolo standing in front of the reception desk where Miss Kline continues thumbing through her magazine.

LENNY

So I actually won that round.

KENNY

Did not.

LENNY

Did too.

BENNY

(Whacking them both across the back of their heads as he brings up the rear…)

Shut up you guys.  You’re giving me a head ache.

EXT. IN FRONT OF CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

CTA bus pulls up and deposits Lolo, a large back pack strapped on and, once again, wearing flip-flops, gets off in front of the gym.  FOLLOW LOLO TO

INT.INSIDE CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, MOMENTS LATER

The gym is uncharacteristically silent and empty.  Fin is rummaging in a trunk and placing some things in a gym bag.  Lolo walks up quietly and touches him on the shoulder.  He turns and smiles.

FIN

Hey, Sweetheart, ya know Maria’s not here today.  They’re all down at the Golden Gloves finals at St. Andrew’s.  I just came back to pick up a few extra cups…

LOLO

It’s OK.  I came to see you anyway.  I wanted to tell you face-to-face, I’m done here.

FIN

Done?  Whada’ya mean “done.”  You got yourself pretty far in that crazy TV thing.  Me and Maria we’re real proud a ya.

LOLO

For what?  I’m not the best fighter.  Maria was.  What’s gonna happen to her now that they cut her.  The whole thing is stupid and it’s not fair and there’s no way I can win, anyways, because the whole show is fixed.

FIN

Lookee here, Sweetheart, there ain’t no guarantees of winning anything in this life.  But Maria, she has a real rep in boxing as a fighter and as a trainer.  And, when I retire to Arizona in a few more years, she’s gonna have this gym too.  And all them rich business types are starting to come around for training…

(shaking his head disgustedly)

They’ll pay anything.  And they seem to like her.  So I’m bettin Maria’ll be just fine.  Meanwhile, for you,  quittin’s not the answer.  Quittin’s never the answer in the ring or out.

Lolo hangs her head down and sits down on a ringside bench looking tired.

FIN (CONT’D)

Look, Sweetheart, Lotsa fights in this world are gonna be fixed…and not just the boxing kind.  If ya give up every time a fight is fixed, ya might never get in ta the ring at all.

Lolo raises her head and looks straight and Fin, taking in his words.

FIN (CONT’D)

Ya know your Grandfather fought a big fight one time an the other guy was supposed ta win…and everybody knew it.  And I remember your Granpa sittin right there on that same bench you’re sittin on tellin me:  “Fin, boxing is like life.  It ain’t over till it’s over.  And till it’s over ya never know whose gonna win and whose gonna loose.  But ya gotta keep punchin…cause you ain’t got no choice.”

LOLO

So what happened?

FIN

He won that fight, a course.  He got the title and the rest is history.

Lolo gets up and hugs Fin and then walks slowly out of the gym.  FOLLOW LOLO OUT TO

EXT. IN FRONT OF CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, MOMENTS LATER

A CTA bus is approaching from a long way off.  Lolo looks at it and then sits down on the bus stop bench, pulls off her back pac, pulls out and puts on a pair of running shoes and shoves the flip flops into the backpac.  As the bus slows to pick her up she waves it on and taking a last look back towards the gym sprints off down the street.

INT. YOLANTA’S BEDROOM, NIGHT

YOLANTA and Benny are in bed obviously just having made love.  YOLANTA rolls away obviously anxious to get on to other things when Benny tries to cuddle with her.

YOLANTA

(without any real interest)

So…what you are up to this evening?

BENNY

(hopefully)

I thought maybe I would go pick up some Chinese and we could watch a movie or something.

YOLANTA

(amused)

Why you want to watch movie when we just make love better than movie…triple X rating?

BENNY

(wistfully)

That was great.  You’re great…the sexiest woman I’ve ever known.  But I sometimes I just wish we could…I don’t know…get together and just hang out…

YOLANTA

(dismissively)

You are funny funny little man, Venechka.  Sweet…

She hands him his pants off the chair and pulls on a dressing gown.

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

But now you must go.  I need beauty sleep.  Soon I am making my big, how you say, “debut” in reality T.V…I am, very early, training with T.J..

Benny, clearly disappointed stalls for time as he slowly pulls on his cloths.

BENNY

Well, how about tomorrow night we could…

YOLANTA

Tomorrow I am busy.  I have girl night out.

BENNY

So when can I see you again…

YOLANTA

(laughing and smacking Benny playfully on the rear)

Soon.  But right now you go.

EXT. IN FRONT OF LOLO’S BUILDING, DAY

Bobby and Johnny are returning home after an outing at the Zoo.  Johnny carries a large red balloon and Bobby has a Zoo Shop shopping bag containing a giant stuffed monkey.

BOBBY

So monkey is your favorite animal…hunh little man?

Johnny nods yes.  THE ROAR OF AN APPROACHING MOTORCYCLE (O.C.) GROWS LOUDER as the cycle pulls into view — Joaquin driving and Rikki behind him. Spotting Bobby, Rikki jumps off the back of the motorcycle.  Joaquin follows carrying a large duffel bag with a trademark little stuffed monkey attached to the zipper.

RIKKI

So, Bobby…I like this new hair color…but

(frowning sternly)

RIKKI (CONT’D)

We spend too much time looking for you.  Chuy is no happy.  He send us to get back his stuff.

Gesturing to Joaquin who opens the empty duffel bag and drops it down at Bobby’s feet with a menacing glare.

BOBBY

I don’t have it.  But I can explain.  I went to the warehouse like Chuy told me.  And there was a Blood Brother guy waiting for me there just like he said there would be.  And he took the money and gave me two suitcases like Chuy said he would.  But when I went to look inside and check the product…Next thing I know he disappeared.  Those suitcases were full of talcum powder. And I knew Chuy would be mad…I guess I just got scared and…well..  

Turning his attention from Bobby to Johnny as he processes this information Rikki smiles warmly.

RIKKI

Hola Nino.  How are you today?  I like dju balloon.  Red.  In Spanish: “Roja.”

Turning his attention back to Bobby and resuming his drug-gang-enforcer persona.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

So, Amigo, you telling me you got nothing no even the money?

BOBBY

Please.  Tell Chuy I’m going to pay him back the money.

As they talk, Johnny reaches over to touch the little zipper monkey on the duffel bag and Rikki notices.

RIKKI

Oh…Precioso.

(turning to Joaquin)

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Joaquin.

Understanding Rikki’s wordless command, Joaquin bends down, removes the zipper monkey and hands it to the delighted Johnny.  Rikki watches benevolently and then turns resuming his psyco-drug-enforcer demeanor turns back to Bobby.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

O.K.  Let us have the money then.

BOBBY

I, I haven’t got it now but I will have soon.  My sister,

(gesturing to Johnny)

Johnny’s mother, she’s in that big TV show “Final Round.”  She in the finals.  If she wins she gets $10,000.00.  I know she’ll help me out… pay back the money for me.

Rikki slipping into his, effusive, BFF mode for a second at the mention of “Final Round.”

RIKKI

Really…che is in that show.  I chus love that show…

(turning to Joaquin)

We are big fans, right, Sweetie,

Joaquin nods silently.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

And is getting pretty close to the end now.  Which one is your sister?

BOBBY

Lolo.  Lolo DeMateo

RIKKI

Clapping his hands excitedly.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Oooo…Che is my favorite.  I hope che gonna win…

(looking thoughtful)

RIKKI (CONT’D)

But I can no go back to Chuy with nothing and then he is mad at me.

Weighing his options for a moment.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

O.K.  I know what we go to do.

Quickly picking up little Johnny and handing him to Joaquin who, again following wordless orders, walks over to motorcycle and starts it up as Rikki follows taking the baby from Joaquin and placing him in the middle then climbing on the back.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

(looking back towards Bobby)

Nino stays with us till you have Chuy’s money.  Then we bring him back to dju.

Momentarily confused, Johnny looses his grip on his balloon and watches it float away as the three roar off on the motorcycle with Bobby running behind.

BOBBY

Wait.  Please.  You don’t need to take him.  I promise…

RIKKI

(to Johnny)

No worry Cuchura.  Uncle Rikki will get dju a new balloon roja and some ice cream.  O.K.?

CLOSE UP ON THE RED BALLOON as it floats higher and higher and eventually out of sight.

EXT. STREET IN FRONT OF YOLANTA’S APARTMENT BUILDING, NIGHT

POV of a seemingly unfamiliar man sitting inside a rental car across the street from an older twelve story, door man, apartment building gazing intently at the front entrance.  His hair is slicked back, he wears heavy black glasses and has a bushy black moustache.  It is only as our view is expanded to include the interior of the car and the floor of the driver’s area that we realize, from the red alligator print cowboy boots, that this is Benny Eichoff spying on Yolanta who exits the building laughing and hanging all over T.J.. ­

CLOSE UP of Benny’s face, totally bereft, as he pulls off the moustache and glasses and watches them move off down the street arm in arm.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

Lolo is crying and Bobby is trying to comfort her.

BOBBY

So as soon as we give them the money, they’ll bring him back.

LOLO

Bobby…don’t you get it?  The show is fixed.  I can’t win.  That girl from the club the other night…she’s the producer’s girlfriend and she’s the winner.

BOBBY

I’m sorry, Lo, I know I fucked up.  But if we call the police, those guys will vanish taking Johnny with them.  Maybe you can win.  You said those final shows are being filmed in front of a live studio audience.  Plus, at least maybe you can make the $5,000.00 second prize.  That would be enough.

Lolo looks at him hopelessly.

LOLO

(crying)

I just want my baby back.

EXT. STREET OUTSIDE T.V. STUDIO, DAY

A gigantic sign announces the live taping of the final matches of “Final Round.”  A huge mob of young people are standing in line waiting to get into the studio. 

PAN CROWD TO Joaquin and Rikki, uncharacteristically clad in garishly preppie clothing with little Johnny, similarly dressed and contentedly munching on a candy apple, as part of the crowd.

JOAQUIN

And I am telling you, Rikki, it was a mistake to be coming here.

RIKKI

Seriously, Mijo, you worry too much.  Like anyone’s going to recognize us, in this crowd… or anywhere dressed like this.

(spreading his arms dramatically and looking down at his outfit)

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Maybe this is the only chance for him to see his mama fight.  Do dju want to deny him that?

As they continue quibbling, the crowd moves forward into the studio.

INT. TELEVISION STUDIO, DAY

A boxing ring dominates the stage.  Audience members are, including Johnny, Rikki and Joaquin, are led into the spectator area where they are seated in the back.  Lolo, dressed plainly in red boxing shorts and a white sports bra and helmet is sweating profusely as the referee raises her arm as winner of the most recent, runner up, bout.  (O.C.) CHEERING, SCREAMING & BOISTEROUS COMMENTARY FROM AUDIENCE.  Lolo crosses to her opponent and raises that girl’s arm as well demonstrating her humility and sportsmanship to ­MORE CHEERING.  Returning to her corner, Lolo accepts some water Bobby squirts into her mouth and spits. 

CLOSE UP OF LOLO’S FACE as Bobby checks her over and pats her on the back.  Her eyes reflect the stress and fear she is under.  

We hear the ANNOUNCER’S VOICE (O.C.).

ANNOUNCER

And ladies and gentlemen, after a short break, we will move on to our last fight.  This is the one we’ve all been waiting for…the final round of “FINAL ROUND,” the one that will decide who takes home the $10,000.00 prize money.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. HALLWAY OUTSIDE TELEVISION STUDIO – MOMENTS LATER

YOLANTA is preparing to enter the studio.  Looking more like a belly dancer than a boxer, she is attired in a gold sequined sports bra with long gold fringe hanging across her midriff, gold lame boxing shorts also fringed, gold leather boxing gloves and boxing shoes.  Beneath her gold head gear, we see she is wearing full make-up.

T.J.

(leaning in close and speaking in a  pressuring tone of voice)

You sure you got this?  Cause I already got us our L.A. tickets.

(pulling out and flashing two airline tickets)

YOLANTA

I tell you…I am the winner.  Now go sit.  I see you after show.

Benny, carrying a bunch of papers, rounds the corner and enters the hallway just as T.J. gives YOLANTA a kiss on the lips and, with his hand on her rear, pushes her through the door into the studio.  As he turns and walks away he does not even acknowledge Benny who, after giving him a long hard look, moves through the door into the studio as well.

INT. TELEVISION STUDIO – MOMENTS LATER

ANNOUNCER

And now, ladies and gentlemen…the moment we’ve all been waiting on… For our final bout…remaining in the red corner following her most recent victory in that last elimination bout…, representing Chicagoooo City Boxing Cluuuuub, granddaughter of former world light weight boxing champion Johnn DeMateo and boxing royalty…LOLOOOOOOO DEMATEOOOOOOO!!

Lolo stands briefly TO MORE CHEERING and promptly sits back down obviously tired and nervous.

PAN AUDIENCE AND MOVE ON TO Joaquin, Rikki and Johnny.  Rikki noticing Johnny is too small to see past the person in front of him gives Joaquin on of his “unspoken order” looks in response to which Joaquin lifts Johnny onto his shoulders.  (O.C.) WE HEAR ANNOUNCER’S VOICE CONTINUING

ANNOUNCER (CONT’D)

And in the Blue Corner we have a special surprise for you.  Our very own…um…Guest…unh…Contender..who is…unh…undefeated…Ms. YOLANTA Romanov.

MOVE ON TO: YOLANTA as she struts around and climbs into the ring smiling and shimmying her fringe like a card girl in an undeserved display of prowess.  There are A FEW BOOS & CAT CALLS(O.C).

MOVE BACK ON TO:  Joaquin, Rikki and Johnny.

RIKKI

(indignantly)

Who she is, this woman?  Because I no see her in this show before.

(to Joaquin)

Do dju see her in this show before?

Joaquin shakes his head “no.”

RIKKI (CONT’D)

(disgustedly)

Es no a problem being undefeated when dju never have a fight.

As the bell sounds, Rikki switches to an excited child tone.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Oooo look, Nino.  Mama going to fight now.

Lolo and YOLANTA move around the ring — YOLANTA mostly dancing and making rude gestures at Lolo.  Once or twice she raises her hand as if to announce herself as winner.  BOOS FROM AUDIENCE.  Lolo attempts to engage her to no avail as she basically runs away every time LOLO gets close.  The bell sounds without any blows being struck.  The referee directs the fighters to their respective corners.  PAN CROWD &

MOVE ONTO RINGSIDE TABLE WHERE THE THREE EICHOFF COUSINS ARE SITTING WITH THE ANNOUNCER & MICROPHONE

ANNOUNCER

And our first of three rounds goes toooooo:  YOLANTA Romanov

AUDIENCE

Boos & cat calls.  “Hey let’s see some fighting… This ain’t dancin with the stars, is it?  Etc.”

Yolanta continues to strut around the ring like the winner and then goes to sit in Blue Corner where her Three Skankie Girlfriends, as clueless as she is, are “working” her corner by smiling and acting silly and flirtatious with the audience sitting nearby.  The bell rings to announce the second round and Yolanta and Lolo walk to the center and touch gloves.

YOLANTA

( to Lolo)

Make it look good and we end it, now…Yes?

Lolo starts dancing around the ring and throwing some punches.  Yolanta, obviously believing Lolo to be following her instructions, smiles and throws a few completely ridiculous punches which miss Lolo by a mile.  As they come in close proximity to one another YOLANTA hisses at her in annoyance.

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

Stop moving so I am hitting you and knocking you out.

In response, Lolo lands a very solid slam into Yolanta’s jaw causing her to stagger back.

CLOSE UP: Yolanta’s face behind the head gear.

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

(out loud to herself)

This stupid little girl is making too good show.

Lolo approaches and Yolanta’s eyes reflect that she is realizing Lolo is fighting for real.  After another blow, a little blood is coming from Yolanta’s nose.  The bell sounds announcing the end of the second of the three rounds.  Limping slightly Yolanta returns to her corner, looks over to the table where the Eichoff  cousins are seated and catching Benny’s eye opens her hands and tilts her head as if to ask…”What Gives.”  Benny just drops his eyes back to the papers on the table in front of him.

ANNOUNCER

And the second of our three rounds goes to:

He looks at the paper Benny shoves in front of him and registers a surprised look.

ANNOUNCER (CONT’D)

Lolo DeMateo.  It’s a tie ladies and gentlemen.  So the third round will determine who is our grand prize winner. 

The bell sounds for the third round to begin and both fighters move into the ring.  Lolo pulls out the stops and begins wailing on Yolanta.

CUT TO:

FULL SHOT TABLE WHERE THE EICHOFF COUSINS ARE SEATED.

KENNY

Shouldn’t we do something?  She’s killin her.  And didn’t you promise her she would win?

BENNY

You can’t believe everything everyone tells you.

CUT TO:

FULL SHOT BOXING RING – CONTINUOUS

Lolo lands a tremendous blow and Yolanta shakes her head and then falls to the ground where she remains sprawled out for the count.  As the ring doctor checks her, the referee climbs down out of the ring and walks over to the Eichoff cousins, speaks confidentially to Benny for a moment and then takes the checks and returns to the ring.  Where Yolanta is groggily being assisted to her feet.  Lolo stands quietly waiting for Yolanta to be propped up somehow and declared winner.

ANNOUNCER

And now, ladies and gentlemen, in a stunning turn of events…the winner for both the runner up and the final round…

He moves to raise Lolo’s head above her head and the crowd CHEERS.  The three skanks assist Yolanta out of the ring.

CUT TO:

FULL SHOT JOHNNY, JOAQUIN & RIKKI – MOMENTS LATER

RIKKI

(gleefully)

You mommy win Nino.  She win.

PAN THE AUDIENCE as they begin exiting their seats and flowing out of the studio.

CUT TO:

FULL SHOT CLOSE UP LOLO & BOBBY – CONTINUOUS

Bobby helps Lolo remove her gloves and then holds her hands and looks into her face.

BENNY

You did it, Lo, you won the whole thing.  I still can’t believe it.

LOLO

(tired and anxious)

So now all we gotta do is find those guys, give them the money and get Johnny back…

PULL BACK TO SHOW

Unbeknownst to them, Joaquin, Rikki and Johnny are threading through the seats and approaching them from the back.  Johnny sees his mom, cries out, breaks away and runs towards her.

JOHNNY

Mommy, mommy, mommy.

Lolo turns around and climbs out of the ring to grab Johnny and spins him around kissing him all over repeatedly.  Then, becoming aware of Rikki & Joaquin she extends her hand with one of the two checks she is still holding towards them.

LOLO

Here’s the money.

RIKKI

(Pushing her hand back)

You kip it, Mija.  You earn it.

JOAQUIN

And what we are going to tell Chuy?

RIKKI

No dju worry about my cousin Chuy.  We go to tell him the truth.  This whole thing es no Roberto’s fault.  Es Chuy’s own fault for doing business with those guys when I tell him long time ago they no have honor.  So maybe now he will listen to me.

(smiling at Johnny)

We go to miss you Nini…

(looking at Joaquin)

But dju are right, Mi Amor, the children they are a lot of work…maybe I not yet ready to be a mama…

LOLO

Well…thank you for taking such good care of Johnny.

RIKKI

It was our pleasure.  Maybe some time we come visit with him if we are ever in Chicago again.  But right now, he needs Mommy. 

Rikki reaches over to pat Johnny’s head and then glances over at Joaquin with one of his wordless commands and Joaquin removes the baby diaper bag he is carrying over his shoulder and hands it wordlessly to Lolo.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

No forget dju Tio Rikki and dju Tio Joaquin, Querido…

Johnny smiles and reaches out in a friendly wave to Rikki.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Joaquin…

Rikki turns and, as if walking a runway, struts out empty theatre with Joaquin following wordlessly behind.

INT. HALLWAY OUTSIDE TELEVISION STUDIO – MOMENTS LATER

Yolanta and T.J. are in a heated conversation.

YOLANTA

Screen test.  Screen test.  Screen test.  This is all you care about.  Well I have news flash for you…you never going to be big star.  And you not good trainer either.  Why you not teach me better so I can win…?

T.J.

You said you didn’t really have to fight the best…you said the money was a gift…

YOLANTA

That guy, Benny, he is a little worm.  And you…you are stupid too.  Lucky for me I have good new boyfriend who is very rich…and he is wanting to take me to Paris…soooo

Turning on her heal Yolanta stalks off with all her gold fringe wiggling.  As T.J. stands there looking at the airline tickets he is holding he is approached by one of YOLANTA’s Three Skanky Girlfriends who overheard the conversation.

SKANKY GIRLFRIEND

Did I ever mention that I have an uncle in L.A. I’ve been meaning to visit.

T.J.

And?

SKANKY GIRLFRIEND

And he’s in the entertainment industry…and I’m his favorite niece.

T.J.

(looking interested)

So, girl, what’s your name again?

As they walk off down the hall arm in arm they encounter a very attractive woman walking in the opposite direction. 

MOVE ONTO CLOSE UP OF T.J. as he turns his head backwards to watch the attractive woman walking down the hall demonstrating his true colors.  (O.C.) we hear Skanky Girlfriend chattering on…

SKANKY GIRLFRIEND

And then I’ll call my uncle and he can pick us up at the airport.  But first I need to pack a few things …What time did you say the flight is…Blah, Blah, Blah.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

The coffee table is laden with heaps of food and Lolo, Bobby, Maria, Fin and little Johnny are all sitting around eating, laughing and talking.

FIN

So Maria’s got so many a them…whaddya call’em “yuppies” coming ta tha gym now…it’s like I’m in a office or sumptin.

MARIA

(laughing)

Don’t say that like it’s a bad thing.  We’re making a fortune and they’re payin for a lot of new programs for the neighborhood kids that we couldn’t afford before and now we can.

BOBBY

I heard you guys even started some sorta organization to research head injuries and get better benefits for professional boxers…

LOLO

(smiling at Maria)

You are so awesome.

FIN

(to Lolo)

So whad’about you, Sweetheart, whatcha got planned now that your T.V. career  is over.

LOLO

(refilling everyone’s wine glass)

Well, it’s not exactly over. That producer guy, the goofy one…

MARIA

They were all goofy if you ask me.

LOLO

The one who was dating that last girl I fought…well it turns out his dad was so happy with how successful “Final Round” was that he’s got him doing another reality T.V. show., “POSERS.”  And you’ll never believe it but he called me up and asked me to work with him on it.

FIN

I thought you was done wit boxing except for keeping fit.

LOLO

It’s not about boxing.  It’s about learning how to get your dream job even if you’re a single mom…I guess there are a lot of us out there.  The contestants pose as members of their dream occupation or profession and get graded by random strangers on their job performance.  Then there’s this part where they are revealed as only pretending.  The contestants who score highest are given training and education for their dream job and introduced to mentors in their field.

MARIA

Sounds like a lot of good will come of that show.  I guess it’s worth it to put up with that goof ball for awhile longer, hunh?

LOLO

Funny thing, when you get him away from his cousins, he’s not such a goof ball.  He took me out to dinner the other night to discuss the show and he was…I don’t know…sort a sweet.  Said he want’s to get involved in something, how did he put it, “socially relevant” for a change.

BOBBY

Well, I’m thinking I might hang around Chicago for a while, myself.  The owner of the Corner Club is opening another bar and he’s looking for someone to manage Corner Club.  So, if you need help I’m here and I promise not to let JOAQUIN & RIKKI kidnap my favorite nephew again.  By the way,  they sent a post card that they’re passing thru Chicago soon and want to stop by a visit Johnny again, if it’s OK.

Everyone raises their glass and has a sip of wine with the exception of little Johnny who picks up his sippy cup and mimics the adults in raising his glass.

FADE OUT\FADE OUT:

†

†

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TRODUCTION

Starting at the Chicago River looking Northbound at the Wrigley Building, we PAN PAST A MONTAGE OF CHICAGO LANDMARKS & STREET SCENES…which eventually flow into a series of bungalows along NW. Elston Ave.  Close in on LOLO’S residence a shabby two flat with  with a surprisingly bright red door.

CUT TO:

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, DAY

LOLITA DEMATEO (LOLO), 18 but looking younger, boyishly built, wearing only rumpled “smiley face” boxer shorts, is sleeping, joints akimbo, under a tangled mass of blankets on a pullout sofa bed which pretty much occupies all the visible floor space in her messy, one room, kitchenette apartment.  This is the living space of someone who appears to have given up on themselves and on life.  Dirty dishes and clothing are strewn everywhere and the only visible nod to decor is a series of old boxing posters — framed and hanging along one wall – all featuring the same boxer.

Close up on LOLO’s face as she opens one eye grudgingly to sound (O.S.) of TODDLER WAILING. Eye opens, closes and reopens as crying escalates until it morphs into the SCREECH OF A JET ENGINE IN LANDING MODE.

CUT TO:

EXT. O’HARE AIRPORT, DAY

A jet has landed and passengers are disembarking.  ROBERTO (BOBBY) DEMATEO, handsome, mid twenties, looking slightly furtive is among them. Looking around anxiously, he hurries thru the terminal without stopping for luggage and hops quickly into the first waiting taxi cab.  As the cab swings out into traffic exiting the airport, he casts a final look backwards and then relaxes a bit.

CUT TO:

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, DAY

LOLO grudgingly drags herself out of bed, pulls a ragged Dago tee on above her boxer shorts and picking her way around clutter retrieves the whaling toddler, JOHNNY, from a shabby crib in against one wall.  She is so small and slight that the impression is of one child holding another.

LOLO

O.K., baby, O.K..  I know You need more formula.

(Holding the infant out in front of her and sniffing)

LOLO (CONT’D)

And some more diapers…hunh, Mr. Stinkey…

Hugging the baby back to her chest and kissing him

LOLO (CONT’D)

I know, Johnny, baby.  I know I been messin up some since Grama died.

She spies a leftover slice of pizza on the counter above the mini-fridge which she breaks apart and tentatively offers to the child whose crying de-escalates in response

LOLO (CONT’D)

I promise, baby, today I’m going down to welfare and sign us up.  Food before pride, O.K., baby?

She sets the baby on the sofa bed, lights a cigarette  and task a swig out of an open can of pop sitting on the kitchenette counter. 

There is a LOUD KNOCKING on the door (O.S.).  Climbing back over the clutter again, Lolo opens the door to find her landlord, MANNY (late thirties, nattily but tastelessly  dressed, he is an former gang-banger trying to legitimize himself thru his drug-money real estate purchases but his rough roots are still apparent.

MANNY

So Lolo, how ya been doing, Chica.

(effecting an attempt at a sympathetic expression)

I guess things been pretty tough on you since your Moms passed, right?

LOLO looks at him suspiciously and steps past the doorway and into the hall as if to keep him out of her living space.

MANNY (CONT’D)

Hey.  She was one special lady, right, your Moms?  Special to me too.  Truth be told, that’s why I let you all stay here so long…rent free.  Well that and my respect for your Grandpa.   He was the man, Johnny DeMateo.  A real champ, right?  But I’m a businessman, you understand.  I gots ta get some money out’a dis here place, right?  So you guys got’a start paying me some rent…

Looking Lolo up and down appraisingly.

MANNY (CONT’D)

Unless, of course, you wan’na make a “special” arrangement  with me like your Moms had?…

(he attempts a seductive smile)

LOLO (LOOKING SHAMEFACEDLY DOWN AT HER FEET MUMBLING )

That’s allright.  I’m gonna be getting some money real soon.  I just need a little more time.

MANNY

Sure thing Chica.  You know,  on account’a my respect for your gramps and, ‘course, your mom.  I can hold off another week or so.  But after that, if you ain’t brought your tab up at date…you an the kid gots ta go.

LOLO nods, turns and goes back into her room shutting the door in Manny’s face. ­

INT. HALLWAY LOLO’S BUILDING, DAY

Manny looks towards the closed door and then, shaking his head, turns and walks off down the dark, narrow stairs.

EXT. IN FRONT OF LOLO’S BUILDING, DAY

CHICO, Lolo’s neighbor,  Hispanic, 22, dressed in urban hip style, is sprawled out on a broken down garden chaise lounge on the tiny porch of the of the ramshackle bungalow next door to Lolo’s.  He’s drinking a beer and playing a noisy video game. A cab pulls up and deposits BOBBY DEMATEO out onto the street in front of Lolo’s.

CHICO

(hopping out of the deck chair and scrambling down the stairs to clutch at Bobby’s hand)

Yo, Bobby, man.  Ain’t seen you around the hood for about a minute.  Where ya been keepin yourself?

BOBBY

Hey, CHICO, how ya doin bro? 

(smiling)

Still living with your mom I see. (Smiling)

CHICO

(laughing)

Hey, old gal needs me, man.  All them yuppies an yippies an what all hanging around the hood now.  I’m helpin her keep it real.

(Slapping Bobby on the back.)

But tell me Bro, can you hook me up with some of that primo product of yours?  We been missing dat all da while you been gone.

BOBBY

(glancing nervously around)

Sorry, Man.  Not right now.  I’m… Kinda between suppliers right now.  Sor’ta laying low, ya know.  In fact, I was hoping I could crash with my sister for a little while.

CHICO

(Glancing towards the red door of Lolo’s building.)

Lolo ain’t here right now, man.  She took little Johnny down to Welfare to sign up for benefits.  But, hey, Bro, come on up to the crib, say “hi” to my mom and have a beer while you’re waitin.

CHICO and Bobby head up the stairs of CHICO’s house laughing and clapping one another on the back companionably.

INT. WELFARE OFFICE, DAY

Numerous downtrodden looking people are scattered around a drab, government issue room — some dozing others, including Lolo, with BOBBY on her lap, are watching a TV hanging near the ceiling in one corner of the room.

INSERT: CLOSE UP OF TV SCREEN – MOMENTS LATER

TV NEWS ANCHOR #1

(a typical female talking head)

…and for all you gals out there who are in fighting good shape, try outs for the new reality TV show, “Final Round,” featuring female boxers, and filming here in Chicago, is having open tryouts this weekend at St. Andrew’s gym.  So if you think you’ve got what it takes, go on down there and check it out.

TV NEWS ANCHOR #2

(a typical male talking head)

Sounds like fun.  Can we expect to see you down there, Laura?

TV NEWS ANCHOR #1

(laughing)

No, Jerry.  I’m more of a lover than a fighter..

CUT TO:

P.O.V. CLOSE UP OF LOLO’S FACE

T.V. News Anchor #1 continuing (O.C.).

TV NEWS ANCHOR #1

But I hear the first prize will be $10,000.00.  So good luck all of you ladies out there.

Lolo’s eyes widen at the mention of the $10,000.00 and she appears to sit up a bit straighter in contrast to her usual slumpy, apathetic posture.  She is actively listening for more details as a CASEWORKER emerges from the back office.

CASEWORKER

Lolita Demateo?  Is there a Lolita Demateo here?

Resuming her usual hang-dog expression, Lolo slowly stands and, balancing baby Johnny on one hip, follows the caseworker towards a back office.

INT. CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

Various boxers are working out with speed bags, heavy bags and jump ropes.  Two boxers spar in a large boxing ring which dominates the center of the room.  FIN, “THE FORCE” FLANNERY, the quintessential old former fighter turned trainer, avuncular,  demonstrating  the scars of his prior fighting days,   moves slowly through the gym, in a tattered red hoodie and sweat pants,  offering pointers here and there to the various young men who are training.

FIN

Yelling towards one of the guys in the boxing ring.

That’s right Hector, easy now.  Don’t blow your wad in the first five minutes.  Keep up that left hand.  Keep it up.

Fin is approached by MARIA “KNOCKOUT” DE JESUS, a muscular, heavily tattooed young woman dressed in traditional boxer’s shorts and a t-shirt proclaiming “KNOCKOUT” in bold black lettering along with the image of a boxing glove.

MARIA

Fin, I wanna run something by you.

FIN

By me?

(looking surprised)

You’re a grown woman, Sweetheart.

MARIA

It’s about boxing.

FIN

Oh, well, why’nt ya say so.

MARIA

(Sitting down on a nearby bench)

You know how you always say we gotta preserve the dignity of the sport and all?

FIN

If we don’t, who will. Ya know we don’t get the respect other sports do.  

(Warming in to his favorite topic)

FIN (CONT’D)

  We got no benefits.  No pension plan.   Hell, half the time we ain’t even got no insurance.  We go in there and get our brains knocked out ain’t even got no way to pay our our hospital bills.

(Maria listens respectfully to what is obviously a favorite topic for Fin)

FIN (CONT’D)

    When we’re too old ta fight, some a us are picking tin cans out’ta the alley.  Maybe homeless.  What other athlete gets treated that way?  Tell me.  If we ain’t got our dignity, Sweetheart, we ain’t got nothing.

MARIA

I know, Fin, I get it.  That’s why I wanted to ask you first before I did anything.

FIN

So ask, already.

MARIA

There’s this competition.  It’s like a reality TV show.  There’s no ranking or official sanctioning. Anybody can enter.  I was thinkin a going to the try outs.

FIN

Whada’ya wanna do that for?  You got  ranking.  You were a serious contender.  And you are a great trainer.  This sounds like it’s gonna be a bunch’a phoney baloney crap ta me. Reality TV show.

(snorting in derision)

MARIA

First prize is $10,000.00.  And there’s a lot a programs and stuff we could put together with that kinda money…maybe make a donation to that foundation that’s studying head injuries. 

FIN

(Shaking his head resignedly)

Ya, well, I think your gonna be disappointed.  But the money.  I could understand that.  Look, Sweetheart, do what ya gotta do.  Ya always got my blessing.  But remember ya got a real rep to protect.  Do me a favor and don’t get sucked into no nonsense.  Now get back ta work, Knockout.

He claps Maria on the back in a comradely fashion and walks off as she flashes a “victory” sign towards the ring and climbing into the ring playfully unleashes a few well executed combinations on the YOUNG BOXER standing there before jumping out.   YOUNG BOXER shakes his head, smiling, watching a high-energy Maria bouncing around and shadow boxing playfully.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

Bobby and Lolo are eating pizza from a box on a cluttered folding table.  Bobby periodically offers small pieces to Johnny who he is holding on his lap.

LOLO

Bobby, you know I love you and all that but since Mom passed I hardly been taking  care of me and Johnny.

(The baby coos as he eats a chunk of pizza)

Manny was by earlier and told me if I don’t have some money for him by next week, he’s throwin us out…so I’d like ta help you but…

BOBBY

Look, Sis, I know times are tough.  Always have been for us since Grandpa died. 

(glancing at the boxing posters)

Man, I can still see us hiding in that closet

(glancing at bi-fold doors of closet))

BOBBY (CONT’D)

When one of Mom’s “boyfriends” would get too rowdy.

LOLO

I really hated that.  Us in there for hours with nothin to eat or drink.  And you would always hold my hand and tell me how when it was over you’d make Mom buy us some ice cream with whatever money her “boyfriend” gave her.

BOBBY

And she always did, too, didn’t she?  You know I always did my best to take care of us.  But now I’m in some trouble and I don’t think ice cream is gonna help.

LOLO

What’s the matter?

BOBBY

It’s not important.  It’s just…I had something, a problem,  with some…uh…Business associates on the West Coast.  A deal went…bad.  Now I gotta lay low for a while, real low, till I figure out what’s next.  I promise, It’ll only be for a little while.

LOLO

(giving her brother a hug)

O.K. Bobby.  OK.  I got nothing.  But what’s mine is yours.  Maybe you can even help me out a little bit while you’re here. There’s some place I was thinking of going this weekend and maybe you could watch Johnny for me.

Bobby smiles gratefully at his sister and nods.

BOBBY

Sure thing. 

(throwing the chuckling baby up gently in the air as Lolo watches tolerantly)

Me and Johnny can spend some quality Uncle/Nephew time together, right Little Man?

INT. BENJAMIN (BENNY) EICHOFF’S OFFICE, DAY

A huge modern glass and chrome office with an expansive view of the city.  Clad in expensive, conservative business clothing, THE THREE EICHOFF COUSINS (BENJAMIN (BENNY), dark haired with bangs, KENNITH (KENNY), a mop of curly blond hair, & LEONARD (LENNY), chubby, balding & squeaky voiced,  are clustered in front of a giant video monitor arguing, in a slapstick, Three-Stooges-updated sort of way, over the DINGING, PINGING & EXPLOSION SOUNDS of a video game.  These are rich kids who have never worked a serious day’s work in their lives and who imagine themselves to be way cooler than they really are — as evidenced by the red alligator print cowboy boots jutting out from beneath Benny’s suit pants.

BENNY

(authoratatively)

No, no, no, no.  That is not the way to get to the next level.

LENNY

(sarcastically in his habitually squeekey voice)

Says the guy whose never been to seventh level in Masters of the Universe.

BENNY

(aggressively,  all up in Lenny’s face)

Says the guy who got his dad to keep you two clowns on the station’s payroll for the last two years.

LENNY

So what.  My Dad carried us for two years before that.

KENNY

(annoyed)

And my Dad carried us the whole way thru college.  But you don’t see me asking everyone to invest in an advertising and PR budget for some hairbrained reality TV show.

LENNY

(smacking his hand against his forehead, Stooge style, and dragging it down his face dramatically)

Oh boy,  now you’re going to get him going on that topic again.

BENNY

Turning his attention away from the video game, whacking Kenny  on the chest, Stooge style, and speaking authoritatively

BENNY (CONT’D)

Hey, “Final Round” is not hairbrained.  Hot babes running around the ring half naked and sweating.  A good fight.  What’s not to like?  It’s genius I tell you. 

KENNY

Cut the crap, BEN. 

(smacking Benny playfully on the head)

We all know the only reason you got your dad to let you do “Final Round” was so you could make YOLANTA a Reality TV star…

LENNY

Yeah.  And so’as you could put the $10,000 prize money in her pocket and keep her dating you for a little while longer.

LENNY (CONT’D)

(earnestly)

What’s so special about this chick anyways, Benny?

BENNY

(like a schoolboy with an important secret)

Man…she is the sexiest girl I’ve ever known.  She comes up with stuff I never even heard of.

KENNY

(smirking)

Even what with all your extensive experience with the ladies…

LENNY

(laughing)

Like that cheerleader, what was her name, Ben thought he was dating her but she only wanted to borrow his car to go out with some other Dude.

Benny lunges towards his cousin who dodges out of the way.

Benny

I told you never to mention that…

The office door bursts open and, as if on cue, in marches YOLANTA ROMANOV, an Eastern European sexpot, totally hot, bright dyed red hair, an Eastern European accent, and an ego matched only by her gigantic rack.  She is dressed in body revealing sportswear including a skin tight top with a boxing glove over each breast. Close behind her is TYRONE (TJ) JOHNSON, her “personal trainer,” handsome, African American, a jock obviously in love with himself and his own physique, dressed in athletic gear and wearing his trademark gold leather high tops monogrammed with a black sequined “T” on the right side and “J” on the left.  Around his neck two golden gloves hang on a thick gold chain.  Rounding out this entourage are YOLANTA’s THREE SKANKY BLOND FEMALE SIDEKICKS.  The group is followed into the office by the receptionist, MISS KLINE, small, mousy, obsequious with cat-eye glasses from the first time they were popular and drab, old fashioned clothing.

MISS KLINE

(apologetically)

Sorry Mr. Eichoff.  I tried to stop them, but…

YOLANTA

(imperiously)

Venechka, you are hearing this miserable little woman.  She is admitting she is keeping me from you and now you must fire her for me, yes?

Benny rushes solicitously over to YOLANTA’s side.

BENNY

Now Yolo, let’s not get all upset.  Miss Kline is my Dad’s secretary.  She is just filling in over here for today and she didn’t know…I didn’t even know…you would be coming by with your…friends and your

(glancing with annoyance at TJ)

…um…Personal trainer.

YOLANTA pouts a little and finally offers Benny a coquettish smile.

YOLANTA

Is O.K., Venechka.  You are givng me some money, yes?  And I am taking everyone

(gesturing to her entourage)

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

out to lunch, eh?  Then we are not getting in way of your

(emphasizing dramatically)

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

important business.

She glances disdainfully at Lenny and Kenny who watch with rapt interest as Benny, glancing distrustfully towards TJ, pulls out a wad of bills out and begins pealing them off into YOLANTA’s outstretched hand.

BENNY

(hopefully)

So,  I’m going to see you later tonight, aren’t I?

YOLANTA

(board)

I am calling you later, Venya.  First I make some personal training for my T.V. Star job in the “Final Round,”  yes?  T.J. is showing me some special moves.

(she glances suggestively at TJ)

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

Right, Tymoosha.

Benny looks dejected but YOLANTA ignores this.  Blowing him a  kiss and winking at Kenny & Lenny,  YOLANTA turns around and sweeps out of  the office followed by her retinue.

KENNY

Tell me again, Ben,  why we have to invest our own money in a publicity campaign to make her a reality T.V. star?

BENNY

Because my dad agreed to let me do “Final Round”  only if I financed the Advertising & PR myself and, more importantly,  because when you two clowns

(dragging his hand against their chins in a gentle tap)

BENNY (CONT’D)

came up with your own hairbrained schemes over the years and I have always invested my money in those.

KENNY

(looking at Lenny)

I don’t know…can’t you get some free PR?  What do think Len, are we in?

LENNY

Certainly.  It’s only money and us cousins gotta stick together, right?  Now, tell us some more about that girls tricks and why you think she’s worth all this.

PULL BACK OFF THE THREE COUSINS who can be observed gesturing & laughing like naughty school boys.

INT. ST ANDREW’S GYMNASIUM, DAY

IN THE CENTER OF THE ROOM IS A REGULATION SIZE BOXING RING SURROUNDED BY ROWS OF BLEACHER SEATS. IT DOMINATES THE ROOM.  PAN CROWD including young women dressed in boxing cloths, cardboard signs displaying numbers hung around their necks.  Some are more athletic looking others more show-business.  Some are accompanied by coaches or friends others cluster together in groups. They are socializing, stretching, warming up, wrapping their hands or just sitting waiting.  Lots of tattoos, shaved hair designs, piercings,  bright dye jobs and over the top cloths.  THERE IS A NONSPECIFIC BUZZ OF CONVERSATION.  CLOSE IN ON LOLO plainly dressed, sitting alone and looking intimidated.

The matchmaker, an older man in black pants and a white long sleeved dress shirt, walking with the characteristic stiff legged gait of a former boxer,  climbs into the ring. The room quiets down.

MATCHMAKER:

O.K. Everyone.  The try outs for the reality T.V. show, “Final Round,” are about to begin.  When your number is called, you will enter the ring.  When the bell sounds, you will fight the opponent that’s in the ring with you.  When the bell sounds again, you will stop fighting and leave the ring.  For those who are asked to stay in touch,  be sure the men at that table

(pointing to Benny, Kenny and Lenny who are seated at a table ringside)

MATCHMAKER: (CONT’D)

have all your contact information.  If you are chosen for the show, you will compete in a series of elimination bouts and whoever wins the final round will win a cash prize of $10,000.00 and the runner up will get $5,000.00.  So good luck everyone.

Pull back off the ring and we see various contestants entering and exiting the ring. Some shots of punches being thrown.

Cut to YOLANTA, who is not wearing a numbered placard, TJ (wearing his trademark monogrammed rhinestone kicks) and the three Skankie Sidekicks entering the gym.  YOLANTA struts around looking board obviously aware that all this is for her benefit.  TJ openly flirts with other women whenever she is not watching him but acts devoted towards her when she is.  And the Three Skankie Sidekicks giggle and act stupid.

 Meanwhile, it is obvious that, without regard to skills, good looking contestants are being directed to the table where the three cousins sit while unattractive contestants are being steered directly to the exit door.

CLOSE UP: BOXING RING ST ANDREW’S GYMNASIUM, DAY

Lolo’s name is called and she climes into the ring where a gigantic girl with crazy looking eyes and wild hair is waiting. The bell sounds and the two begin swinging wildly towards one another with no contact being made.  Clearly neither one knows anything about boxing but Lolo is totally outsized by her opponent.  The Eichoff cousins shake their heads at the sorry spectacle.  The matchmaker glances towards Benny and makes a throat slit gesture with his hand and Benny is about to agree when he glances at the list of contestants. 

INSERT OF BENNY’S HAND HOLDING THE LIST OF CONTESTANTS SHOWING LOLO’S NUMBER AND NAME “DEMATEO.”

INT. ST ANDREW’S GYMNASIUM, MOMENTS LATER

BENNY

Shakes his head “no” and holds up his hand in a “wait” gesture to the matchmaker and turns to his cousins.

BENNY (CONT’D)

Hey, Ken, look at this.  The little one’s name is “DeMateo.”  Wasn’t there a famous, champion boxer named DeMateo?  He was killed in the ring  from a brain injury or something?  Wonder if she could be any relation   that former champ?  DeMateo…Johnny DeMateo was his name?

Kenny fiddles around with his ­i-phone and shows the result to Benny as the bell sounds and Lolo and her opponent are seen exiting the ring.  Benny gestures the matchmaker to send Lolo over to him and, looking surprised, she heads over to the ringside table.

BENNY (CONT’D)

So, Lolita DeMateo, hunh?  DeMateo’s a big name in boxing.

Lolo waits quietly.

BENNY (CONT’D)

You any relation to the Johnny DeMateo — the one who died in the ring from a brain injury?

Lolo considers whether to admit this or not.  Finally,

LOLO

He was my grandfather.

BENNY

O.K. well…good job up there.

(showing her the sign up sheet)

BENNY (CONT’D)

This your current phone number and address?

Lolo nods yes.

BENNY (CONT’D)

O.K. So you’ll be hearing from us.  O.K.?

LOLO

(looking surprised)

Well, umm, thank you, I guess  Thank you very much.

As she turns and walks away, still looking confused, Benny turns to his two cousins smiling.

BENNY

And there, gentlemen, goes your free publicity for “Final Round.” 

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

Lolo and Bobby are eating and feeding Johnny fast food burgers and fries out of a bag.  As usual, the place is a jumble of discarded clothing, fast food containers and baby toys.

LOLO

Yeah.  I couldn’t believe it when they called me either.  It’s not like I beat Godzilla girl in the try outs.  They even told me I gotta get myself some boxing moves.  But, hey, if they’re given me a shot at $10,000.00, I’m takin it.

BOBBY

I get it.  $10,000 if you win and $5,000 just for making it to the final round.  Only problem is you ain’t no boxer.

LOLO

So…I was thinkin maybe besides watching Johnny when I’m not here you could give me some boxing pointers.

BOBBY

(smiling at Johnny & playfully interacting with him)

Johnny, no problem.  But, Sis,  you know I ain’t no boxer neither.  If you really wanna do this, you need to get your moves from a real fighter.  You should go see Grandpa’s old trainer, Fin Flannery.  Last I heard he was still working out of Chicago City Gym on the West Side.

INT. CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

Boxers, all male except for Maria De Jesus, are stretching, jumping rope, socializing, punching heavy bags, speed bags and each other in the ring.  A few blinged out girlfriends are watching their guys train.  Fin walks around dispensing occasional wisdom to the fighters.  Lolo, wearing flip-flops,  enters the gym looking overwhelmed and is pointed in Fin’s direction by one of the elaborately manicured girlfriend observers. Lolo approaches him shyly but he remains focused on two boxers sparring in the ring and barely notices her.

LOLO

Mr. Flannery?  I…I, uh,  think you used to be a friend of my Grandpa’s.

FIN

(without turning to look at her)

Zat so, Sweetheart.  And who might that be?

LOLO

His name was Johnny, Johnny DeMateo.

Fin spins around giving his full attention to Lolo as he looks her up and down.

FIN

I could see it.  You got his eyes and…say, you ain’t that little one that used to come in here when he was training…little Lolita?

Lolo shakes her head yes.

FIN (CONT’D)

If he hadn’t got that bad hit in his last fight, he would probably be champion a da world today.

(with a far away look in his eyes)

FIN (CONT’D)

So, what brings you down here to your Grandpa’s old stomping grounds?

LOLO

I need help.

FIN

Don’t we all, Sweetheart.  But if I’d ever had two nickels to rub together I’d a given’em to your Grandpa back when he got whacked.  Maybe things might a turned out differently.

LOLO

No.  Not money.  I don’t need money…well…I do but that’s not what I am asking you for.

FIN

(appearing thoughtful)

So what then?

LOLO

Boxing.  I need you to show me some boxing moves.

FIN

(looking Lolo over dubiously)

For what?

LOLO

TV.  There’s a T.V. show called “Final Round” and they…they picked me to be on it but they said I need to get a few boxing moves.  Bobby, Roberto, my brother, he thought maybe you could help me.

FIN

Yeah, yeah.  Final Round, I heard all about it.  Figures they’d be telling people to go out and get

(disgustedly)

FIN (CONT’D)

“a few moves”:

FIN (CONT’D)

But this gym ain’t some show business joke.  If you want me to teach ya boxing, ya gotta learn boxing.  Take it serious.  You gotta train and all that.  Otherwise, I’m sorry but even for your Grandpa Johnny I can’t help you.  So…you decide?

Fin holds his hand out and reluctantly Lolo shakes it.  Then she heads back outside.  FOLLOW LOLO OUT TO

EXT. IN FRONT OF CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

Lolo pulls a candy bar out of her purse and eats it while waiting for an approaching CTA bus.  Bus pulls up to the bus stop in front of the gym.  The doors open, Lolo climbs on, the doors close and the bus pulls away.

EXT. LINCOLN PARK ZOO, DAY

Lolo & Bobby wheel Johnny thru the zoo in a rickety looking stroller while munching on hot dogs and French fries which they share with him.

LOLO

So I’m hoping I don’t hafta work out too hard with Finn.  You know exercise was never really my thing.

BOBBY

Mine neither.  Remember how grandpa used to drink all those special crazy concoctions and he would never eat a hot dog or nothing?  And all that running and jumping rope.

LOLO

I never saw him sit down.

BOBBY

(laughing)

Yeah.  I could never do it.

LOLO

Well I need that money.  And it looks like if I want the money I got no choice.

Just then Johnny cries out in delight as he spots a monkey jumping around in its cage.

JOHNNY

Monkey!!

Lolo, Bobby and Johnny mimic the monkey sounds and gestures before dissolving into a fit of shared giggles.

EXT. IN FRONT OF CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

A CAT bus pulls up to the stop and Lolo disembarks in a rumpled sun-dress and flower print Keds gymshoes.  In one hand she holds a donut balanced on top of a cup of coffee.  In the other is a clear plastic bag in which we can see a pair of denim jean shorts.  FOLLOW HER INTO

INT. CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

Upon entering the gym, Lolo sets her bag onto a bench by the door.  Her donut slips off onto the floor and she bends over, picks it up and takes a bite out of it.  Two boxers conversing nearby (one holding bottled water and the other an orange) exchange a disgusted glance and shake their heads.  Fin and Maria see Lolo and cross across the gym to her.

FIN

So, Lolita, this here’s Maria “Knockout” DeJesus.  She’s gonna be workin wit’cha.

Lolo glances apprehensively at Maria’s muscular body which is covered from top to bottom with numerous tattoos.  Maria, smiling with genuine warmth, holds out her hand to Lolo.

MARIA

So, I guess I’m gonna be training you and we are gonna be competitors too.

LOLO

(looking confused)

Competitors?

MARIA

Yeah.  Final Round.  I hear you made it in.   I did too.

(clapping Lolo on the back in a comradely fashion)

MARIA (CONT’D)

So, whaddaya say we jump in the ring and I will show ya some basics.

FIN

(smiling, satisfied)

O.K. Ladies, I’ll be over there working with Rickey if youse all need me.

Lolo pulls on her denim street shorts and removes her dress to reveal a sports bra.  As Lolo climbs clumsily into the ring Maria glances questioningly at her flip flops but then shrugs her shoulders and climbs in as well. 

MARIA

So, you always wanna keep your balance

(demonstrating proper stance)

And when ya throw a punch, you always wanna follow through

(begins to demonstrate a punch)

CUT TO:

INSERT – MOMENTS LATER

As Lolo’s foot slips off her flip flop she accidentally trips directly into the line of Maria’s demonstration punch.  CLOSE UP LOLO’S POV as we see Maria’s fist heading directly towards her face.  SWITCH TO VIEWER POV Seconds later, it lands and we see blood squirting from Lolo’s nose.

Maria stops immediately and drops both arms to her side as the hit was entirely unintentional.  She tries to approach Lolo to assist her but Lolo turns her back, climbs out of the ring, grabs her plastic bag and sundress and exits the gym leaving Maria standing alone in the ring looking perplexed.  Fin can be seen, across the gym, watching sadly.

EXT. IN FRONT OF CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

Lolo climbs onto the CTA bus and, head down, ignores the stares of other passengers at her bloodstained face and cloths.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

Amid the ever present clutter, Lolo, still in her bloodstained clothing,  and Bobby are sharing a giant bottle of pop and a pizza which, as usual, they are sharing with little Johnny.  LOUD KNOCKING ON THE DOOR

Bobby slips behind the curtains as Lolo opens the door to Manny.

LOLO

I know.  I know I promised I would have the rent by today.  But I just need a few more days.  I promise.  I will have it for you.

MANNY

(looking curiously at Lolo’s bloodstained clothing)

Allright.  I shouldn’t do this…but out’a respect for your Moms and Grandpa, you got till this time next week.  But when I come back next time, I’m bringing some muscle wit me.  If you ain’t got the money, we gonna move you right out right then and there, for real.  Understood?

LOLO

I get it.

(closing the door in his face)

Bobby slips out from behind the curtain.

BOBBY

Jerk!!  He can’t do that.  There’s laws.

LOLO

So what?  If he doesn’t want us here he’s gonna get us out one way or another.  I don’t know maybe if I had more time,  I could go back and work harder.  If I could win that show  our problems would be over, for a while, right?

BOBBY

I don’t know.

 (glancing at the bloodstained cloths)

BOBBY (CONT’D)

But I got an idea.  You know that little club on the corner right down at the end of the street?  The “Corner Club”?  That’s a real popular place.  Lots’a people lining up to get in all the time.  Maybe I could go down and see if they need another doorman or a bouncer or a bartender or something.  If I change my look, you know wear a disguise, maybe I could earn a few bucks for the rent and still lay low.

LOLO

You think?

BOBBY

Yeah.  But, Sis, if you go back down there for this boxing stuff, I think you gotta take it serious like.  You can’t be playin if you wanna make it to the end.

LOLO

If I could win I would go to beauty school.

BOBBY

If you could win, I would open a garage.

LOLO

We could all go to Paris France.

BOBBY

No Spain.  I always wanted to see a bullfight.

They hug each other and start throwing Johnny’s stuffed animal toys playfully around and playing peek-a-boo with Johnny asking him if he would rather go to France or Spain.

EXT. THE CORNER CLUB, NIGHT

BODY BUILDER BOUNCER is carding patrons entering the club.  FOLLOW PATRONS INTO

INT. THE CORNER CLUB, NIGHT

Across dance floor,  crowded with colorful patrons, including punk, goth, etc., YOLANTA and TJ can be seen seated with a group of friends in a large circular booth against the wall.  PAN ACROSS DANCE FLOOR ONTO THEIR BOOTH

TJ

Since you got so much sway with this dude, how comes I ain’t an announcer or something by now?   I been had some acting lessons and…well shit…just look at me. (Smiling arrogantly)

While talking, TJ winks at one of his buddies and passes something that could be a tip to a WAITRESS BRINGING DRINKS to their table.  Waitress looks at what he gave her as she walks away from the table.

INSERT a card reading:  “I am TJ and you can call me at (312) 555-2020.”

Waitress crumples the card up in disgust.  BACK TO:

YOLANTA

You will see, Tymosha.  When I get $10,000.00  We are going to California.  I get you screen test like you want and you become famous movie star.

TJ

(turning to give her a sloppy kiss while winking again at his buddy)

Now that’s more like it Baby.

YOLANTA

(pouting)

You are still loving me when you are famous?

TJ

(winking once again at his buddy)

You know it Babe.  Come on, let’s get outta here and go back to my place and I will show you how much

(mimicking her accent)

I ­am loving you…

YOLANTA giggles and they begin to navigate the crowded dance floor towards the front door waiving and acknowledging occasional acquaintances along the way.  Upon reaching the door, TJ greets the Body Builder Bouncer with a friendly clap on the back and then notices Bobby, whose hair has gone from dark brown to bleached platinum blond and who is wearing a fedora and sunglasses indoors while carding entering patrons.  TJ looks at Body Builder Bouncer as if to say:  Whose that?

BODY BUILDER BOUNCER

(shrugging, lip syncs)

New guy.

INT. CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

Lolo enters dressed in loose fitting boxer shorts, a sports bra and lace-up tennis shoes.  She is carrying a carton of milk and a banana.  Spotting Maria she walks directly over to her.

LOLO

Hey, I’m sorry about how I acted the other day.  I want to give it another shot if that’s o.k. with you.

MARIA

(glancing towards Fin who smiles and nods yes)

Let’s go.

Lolo & Maria enter the ring and can be seen talking and working out together.

FADE OUT\FADE IN:

A sweaty Lolo hugs Maria and climbs out of the ring.  FOLLOW HER TO

EXT. IN FRONT OF CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

An approaching CTA bus slows to stop for Lolo but she waives the driver on and sets off sprinting down the street.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

There is a newfound order throughout the room. A bowl of fruit sits on the counter and Johnny holds a sippy cup full of milk. Lolo is playing with Johnny in front of a spotless coffee table upon which there is a drinking glass filled with wild picked flowers and a newspaper.

INSERT: NEWSPAPER HEADLINE:  “Legendary Boxing Great’s Granddaughter Carries On Family Tradition In Popular New Reality T.V. Show.”

LOUD KNOCK AT THE DOOR announces the Manny’s arrival.  Opening the door, Lolo shoves a handful of bill into his hand and shuts the door in his face.

CUT TO:

INT. HALLWAY OUTSIDE LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

Manny looks down in surprise at the money in his hand.  Than, shaking his head and smiling he pockets the money and saunters off down the stairs whistling.

INSERT: CLOSE UP OF T.V. SCREEN

TV NEWS ANCHOR #2

So, Laura, what do you think about former legendary boxer Johnny DeMateo’s granddaughter maybe making it to the final elimination bouts of that Reality TV Boxing Show, “Final Round.”

TV NEWS ANCHOR #1

Well, Jerry, I’m all for it.  You know it was a total tragedy when Johnny DeMateo,  who they called “The Professor” because of his intellectual approach to the sweet sport, basically died in the ring from a blow to the head.

TV NEWS ANCHOR #2

But it wasn’t instantly, was it?  He had a concussion but he was still standing up and even fighting for a minute.

TV NEWS ANCHOR #1

That’s right.  It was sort of a scandal. 

TV NEWS ANCHOR #2

I remember that. He was in a coma for a while before they declared him brain dead and people said it might have been different if referees had known more about traumatic brain injuries and  had stopped the fight sooner.

TV NEWS ANCHOR #1

That’s right, Jerry.  DeMateo gave his all to boxing.  So, if his family can benefit in any way from the sport, well, I’m all for it.

TV NEWS ANCHOR #2

I’m with you Laura…and now on to the international news with Erick Rodgers.

INT. TELEVISION STUDIO, DAY

A large room with cameras and props.  Numerous “Final Round” contestants are milling around socializing.  There is a hum of nonspecific conversation.  ­The Eichoff cousins enter the room in their usual flurry of Three Stoges like activity — Benny holding a bunch of papers and Kenny & Lenny holding placards marked “A” & “B” respectively.  Benny positions himself in the middle of his two cousins — who are holding up their placards on either side of him — and clears his throat.  The conversational hum dies down and contestants direct their attention to the three cousins.

BENNY

So, today is the day you have all been waiting for…to find out if you have made it to the final elimination bouts of the show.

Two young women towards the back of the room glance at each other.  One makes the sign of the cross and the other crosses her fingers.

BENNY (CONT’D)

So when you hear your name called, you will be directed to either Group “A”

(gesturing towards Kenny)

­or Group “B”

(gesturing towards Lenny and accidentally poking him in the eye)

If you are in the group that’s staying, you will be given a check to purchase your gear to wear for the final elimination bouts…and if you’re in the group that’s not staying…for insurance reasons…you will be asked to accompany our security guard

(gesturing to GUARD standing off to the side)

­immediately out of the building…so…any questions?

(glancing quickly around the room but not allowing any time for questions)

BENNY (CONT’D)

O.K. here goes:  Tamika Taylor, Group “A”

An very attractive and flirty young African American girl bounces over towards Kenny smiling widely…

BENNY (CONT’D)

Darcy Davis, Group “B”

A very muscular, bad ass but rather unattractive, young African American girl “pimp rolls” slowly over towards Lenny with a “Never fuck with me” expression on her face.

INT. TELEVISION STUDIO, MINUTES LATER

Groups “A” and “B” are filling up — “A” with the prettier  contestants and “B” with less attractive but more competent looking contestants.

BENNY

(with more fanfare than for other contestants)

YOLANTA Romanov, Group “A”

As YOLANTA, clad head-to-toe in leapordskin, sashays over to Group “A” we hear BENNY’S VOICE (O.S.)

BENNY (CONT’D)

Maria De Jesus, Group “B”

CUT TO:

CLOSE UP OF TWO CONTESTANTS WAITING TO BE CALLED:  CONTESTANT #1 is blond and feminine dressed more for show than sport.  CONTESTANT #2 is a serious looking Oriental girl more appropriately dressed for boxing.

CONTESTANT #2

(to Contestant #1)

I hope I get Group “B.”  That DeJesus chick has sick skills.  I bet “Group “B” will be the group that’s going to stay.

CONTESTANT #1

(nodding her head in agreement)

You might be right because  that one girl in “A” in the leopard skin 

(inclining her head towards YOLANTA)

Bitch has never even had a fight yet.

WIDE SHOT OF STUDIO AS THE LAST TWO CONTESTANTS ARE CALLED.  We see Contestant #1 moving towards Group “A” and Contestant #2 moving towards Group “B.”

BENNY

O.K Group “B,” thanks again for your participation.  Hope you all had fun.  And now, security will escort you all out of the building.

CUT TO:

MONTAGE OF CONTESTANTS FACES – MOMENTS LATER

Looks of shock and disbelief on the faces of many contestants in both groups.  Lolo makes eye contact with Maria and holds her hands up and mouths: “What the fuck.”  Only YOLANTA appears unfazed and slightly board by the whole process.  As Group “B” files out of the room with security, Benny starts handing checks out to Group “A” contestants who are high-fiving one another and dancing around gleefully.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

Lolo enters carrying a full bag of groceries with celery, Italian bread and some red tulips sticking out of the bag.  She pulls out a box of children’s animal cookies and gives one to Johnny who eats it as she sets about putting away the groceries and straightening up the already tidy room.

BOBBY

(giving his sister a quick hug)

Gotta go, Lo, or I’ll be late for work.

LOLO

What about dinner?  I’m cookin healthy tonight.

BOBBY

Sorry sis…no can do.  I’ll grab something later.

     (he hands her a wad of

      bills)

LOLO

Well, hey, Bobby, just…Thanks for watching Johnny and for…everything.

BOBBY

(earnestly)

No.  I thank you and, you know this already but, I’m, you know, real proud of everything you’re doing.

Rushes out the door in his fedora and sun glasses.

INT. HALLWAY IN FRONT OF YOLANTA’S APARTMENT, EVENING

As Benny approaches YOLANTA’s front door he smooths down his hair and holds his hand in front of his mouth to check his breath, sprays some breath freshener and then, wearing a foolish grin, he knocks.  YOLANTA, in a bra and panties, opens the door a crack and looks at him with obvious surprise.

BENNY

(attempting hip bravado)

Hey, Babe, did you forget we’ve got plans for tonight?

YOLANTA

Oh, no.  Not forgetting.  Just…

(obviously stalling)

BENNY

(pushing past her into the living room)

So, what are we waiting for.  Finish getting dressed and let’s go.

YOLANTA

Sure.  Sure.  O.K.  You are watching T.V.. I am getting dressed.

As Benny sits down on the sofa, she turns on the T.V. for him and heads into the bedroom looking uncomfortable.  Benny half watches the TV while glancing around the living room when his glance happens to fall on the floor beneath an end table across the room.

BENNY’S POV: 

A pair of rhinestone studded high topped sneakers with black  monogrammed “T” and “J” are casually laying on the floor under the table.

CLOSE UP OF BENNY’S FACE

 As he glances towards the bedroom door Benny realizes that TJ must be somewhere in the apartment.  DRAW OFF BENNY TO FULL SHOT OF LIVING ROOM MOMENTS LATER.

YOLANTA emerges, fully dressed, from the bedroom and grabs Benny by the arm.

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

So OK handsome.  Where we are going?  Someplace fancy for early dinner and then I sneak you into lady’s room…  And…you know…like that other time, yes?  But I must be home very, very early tonight for important telephone call.

Casting a last crestfallen look towards the rhinestone high tops, Benny  follows YOLANTA quietly out of the apartment.  CUT TO

INT. YOLANTA’S BEDROOM

The closet door opens and TYRONE emerges, tip toing thru the apartment and quietly letting himself out the front door.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

The coffee table is set, with mismatched place settings for two — a scarf serves as a table cloth and a drinking glass holds the red tulips.  Maria is sitting on the couch in front of the coffee table as Lolo brings over food from the galley kitchen.

MARIA

Wow.  This is real nice, Lolo, but, you know, you don’t got to…I’m O.K. And, hey, Fin always said it was some sort a set up.  I’m glad for you to still be in it though and don’t worry,  I’ll keep on training you just like before.

LOLO

I just can’t believe it.  We both know you should’a made it before me…before anyone.  You were the only real boxer there.  And that YOLANTA, girl, she’s never even stepped into the ring…what’s with that?

Pausing to eat a fork full of spaghetti.

LOLO (CONT’D)

So, anyways, I know you said you wouldn’t take half my expense money they gave us, but I…I wanted to get you something for all your help.

Turning to reach behind the sofa, Lolo pulls out a large, festive gift bag and hands it to Maria who reaches past the colorful tissue paper and removes a set of pink leather boxing gloves.

LOLO (CONT’D)

I know you said yours were getting sorta worn out…so I…

MARIA

(smiling dubiously but with warmth)

Pink!!

Lolo starts clearing the dinner dishes and Maria begins to play with Johnny who is entranced with the pink boxing gloves.  Lolo watches them smiling and then noticing the large amount of spaghetti still left, turns to Maria.

LOLO

Hey, would you mind playing with Johnny for a couple minutes more so I can run down the street and take some of this food and change from the rent money to my brother?

MARIA

(Playfully holding up one of the gloves for Johnny to throw punches at)

Sure.  No hurry.  Our training session is just starting…right little Dude.

EXT. IN FRONT OF CORNER CLUB, NIGHT

Bobby and the Body Builder Bouncer are working the door, carding the usual flamboyant array of young club denizens, Lolo approaches the club holding the plate of spaghetti up over her head.

LOLO

Yo, Bobby, dinner.

Simultaneously a cab pulls up to the curb and deposits TJ and YOLANTA, who seems high and is staggering slightly, onto the curb in front of the club.  Disregarding the long line of waiting patrons, they strut imperiously to the front of the line and are about to be waived through by Body Builder Bouncer when YOLANTA turns back in response to an overheard conversation occurring between two club patrons waiting in line.

UNNAMED CLUB PATRON #1

(pointing towards Lolo)

Hey, look, isn’t that that boxer girl from TV?

UNNAMED CLUB PATRON #2

(interrupting her texting to look)

Yeah…wow..Maybe we should see if she’ll take a selfie with us.

YOLANTA looks in Lolo’s direction and after a foggy moment or so recognizes her.

YOLANTA

(indignantly  to the unnamed club patrons)

That…little girl.  She is nothing.  They keep her for her name.  I am star of that TV show…I am winning this show and getting $10,000.00. 

As the club patrons step back slightly in response to this unexpected tirade Bobby and Lolo exchange an uncomfortable glance. 

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

Is already decided long time ago I will win!

Turning clumsily on her platform heals, YOLANTA staggers into the club behind TJ leaving an embarrassed Lolo and the waiting patrons standing on the sidewalk.

CUT TO:

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, SAME TIME FRAME, NIGHT

Maria is carefully showing Johnny about throwing a punch and he is gleefully following her instructions.  They are interrupted by a LOUD KNOCK AT THE DOOR and Maria places Johnny in his crib and opens the door to two scary looking Hispanic guys, JOAQUIN ESCOBAR, tall, muscle bound, hyper-macho, the strong silent type, always looking straight ahead and not making eye-contact and RIKKI RAMOS, androgynous,  slight but solidly built, long curly hair in a low-riding pony tail.    He is an engaging and incongruous blend of psycho-drug-gang-enforcer and chatty, maternal BFF.  Both men are attired head to tow in black leather biker cloths but Rikki announces his gay pride with a rainbow scarf tied on to his jacket.  Without waiting for invitation, they stride into the room.

RIKKI

(whose speaks with a pronounced Spanish accent combined with “gay” argot, smiling pleasently)

Soooo…allow me to introduce myself. 

(holding out a slightly limp-wristed hand)

I am Rikki Ramos.  And this georgeous man…

(glancing appreciatively at Joaquin)

He ­is my partner, Joaquin.  We are here to see our amigo Bobby.

MARIA

Who is Bobby?

RIKKI

(less cordial and slightly scolding)

Done be kidding around with me, Mija.  If you don know Bobby why you have so many pictures with his name? 

(pointing to the old Johnny DeMateo boxing posters)

MARIA

(protectively picking up Johnny)

Look I’m just here watching this baby for a friend … a girl.

RIKKI

Focusing on Johnny for the first time, Rikki turns to Joaquin fawning.

Oh look.  Que Lindo Chula.  Dju know I’ve been wanting one of these for us forever.

Turning companionably back to Maria who continues to hold the baby.

RIKKI

Oh Chure, we’ve got the Jack Russel Terrier and all.  But is no the same.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

(turning back to Joaquin, all serious now)

O.K.

(clapping his hands twice quickly)

Let’s go.

Joaquin quickly begins ransacking the room while Rikki plays peek a boo with Johnny who remains safely ensconced in Maria’s arms.  When Joaquin pulls out a blade and slices open both sofa cushions, Rikki looks sympathetically at Maria. 

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Trust me, mija, he is doing dju a favor on that one.  That color is so totally over a long time ago.  But those posters

(glancing at the boxing posters)

…vintage…

Seeing that the search has yielded nothing, Rikki holds up a hand to signal Joaquin to stop and directs his attention to Maria with a serious expression.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

So…Bobby has something it belongs to our friend Chuy.  So we be comming back for it later.

He makes a fawning “Bye Bye” gesture towards the baby as they head out the door.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Tell Bobby next time he is better have Chuy’s stuff or is a big problem for everyone.

After the door closes behind Rikki and Joaquin we see the door knob wiggle as they, incongruously,  check to be sure it is safely locked.  Maria places Johnny into his crib and is turning the slashed sofa cushions over to the “good” side when the door opens and Lolo enters talking excitedly.

LOLO

You will not believe what just happened at that club where my brother works…

She stops taking and stands still taking in the trashed room around her and then looks questioningly at Maria.

MARIA

Is your brother in some kind of trouble?

INT. RECEPTION AREA OF BENNY EICHOFF’S OFFICE, DAY

PINGS, DINGS AND CRASHING SOUNDS OF A VIDEO GAME CAN BE HEARD (O.C.) FROM WITHIN BENNY’S OFFICE.  Miss Kline sits primly  at the reception desk thumbing through a magazine when Lolo enters.

LOLO

I’m here to see…I mean…is Mr. Eichoff here?  I need to…

MISS KLINE

(imperiously)

Mr. Eichoff is in an important meeting     What is it you want?

LOLO

It’s about…never mind, I’ll wait to talk to him.

MISS KLINE

(turning back to her magazine)

Suit yourself.

INSERT: Clock On The Wall Showing Passage of Time.

The three Eichoff cousins tumble out of Benny’s office in their usual 3 Stooges way.

KENNY

That was not your real score.

LENNY

(Smacking his forehead and running his hand down his face)

You don’t understand the scoring system.

All three stop when they see Lolo sitting in the reception area.

LOLO

(to Benny)

Is it true?

BENNY

(looking confused and mildly irritated)

Is what true?

LOLO

That the winner of the show is already chosen?

BENNY

(now openly annoyed)

Look.  You’re getting your expense money, right?  And even if you don’t win and just make it to the final round you can still get yourself $5,000.00, right?

LOLO

Yes…but the winner…should be the winner…and Maria…

BENNY

(cutting her off)

Hey, if you want pure boxing…go sign up for the Golden Gloves or something.  Boxing is boxing and TV is TV.  So if you want to stay in “Final Round”  don’t tell me how to run my show, O.K.?

The three cousins continue out the door leaving a dejected looking Lolo standing in front of the reception desk where Miss Kline continues thumbing through her magazine.

LENNY

So I actually won that round.

KENNY

Did not.

LENNY

Did too.

BENNY

(Whacking them both across the back of their heads as he brings up the rear…)

Shut up you guys.  You’re giving me a head ache.

EXT. IN FRONT OF CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, DAY

CTA bus pulls up and deposits Lolo, a large back pack strapped on and, once again, wearing flip-flops, gets off in front of the gym.  FOLLOW LOLO TO

INT.INSIDE CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, MOMENTS LATER

The gym is uncharacteristically silent and empty.  Fin is rummaging in a trunk and placing some things in a gym bag.  Lolo walks up quietly and touches him on the shoulder.  He turns and smiles.

FIN

Hey, Sweetheart, ya know Maria’s not here today.  They’re all down at the Golden Gloves finals at St. Andrew’s.  I just came back to pick up a few extra cups…

LOLO

It’s OK.  I came to see you anyway.  I wanted to tell you face-to-face, I’m done here.

FIN

Done?  Whada’ya mean “done.”  You got yourself pretty far in that crazy TV thing.  Me and Maria we’re real proud a ya.

LOLO

For what?  I’m not the best fighter.  Maria was.  What’s gonna happen to her now that they cut her.  The whole thing is stupid and it’s not fair and there’s no way I can win, anyways, because the whole show is fixed.

FIN

Lookee here, Sweetheart, there ain’t no guarantees of winning anything in this life.  But Maria, she has a real rep in boxing as a fighter and as a trainer.  And, when I retire to Arizona in a few more years, she’s gonna have this gym too.  And all them rich business types are starting to come around for training…

(shaking his head disgustedly)

They’ll pay anything.  And they seem to like her.  So I’m bettin Maria’ll be just fine.  Meanwhile, for you,  quittin’s not the answer.  Quittin’s never the answer in the ring or out.

Lolo hangs her head down and sits down on a ringside bench looking tired.

FIN (CONT’D)

Look, Sweetheart, Lotsa fights in this world are gonna be fixed…and not just the boxing kind.  If ya give up every time a fight is fixed, ya might never get in ta the ring at all.

Lolo raises her head and looks straight and Fin, taking in his words.

FIN (CONT’D)

Ya know your Grandfather fought a big fight one time an the other guy was supposed ta win…and everybody knew it.  And I remember your Granpa sittin right there on that same bench you’re sittin on tellin me:  “Fin, boxing is like life.  It ain’t over till it’s over.  And till it’s over ya never know whose gonna win and whose gonna loose.  But ya gotta keep punchin…cause you ain’t got no choice.”

LOLO

So what happened?

FIN

He won that fight, a course.  He got the title and the rest is history.

Lolo gets up and hugs Fin and then walks slowly out of the gym.  FOLLOW LOLO OUT TO

EXT. IN FRONT OF CHICAGO CITY BOXING GYM, MOMENTS LATER

A CTA bus is approaching from a long way off.  Lolo looks at it and then sits down on the bus stop bench, pulls off her back pac, pulls out and puts on a pair of running shoes and shoves the flip flops into the backpac.  As the bus slows to pick her up she waves it on and taking a last look back towards the gym sprints off down the street.

INT. YOLANTA’S BEDROOM, NIGHT

YOLANTA and Benny are in bed obviously just having made love.  YOLANTA rolls away obviously anxious to get on to other things when Benny tries to cuddle with her.

YOLANTA

(without any real interest)

So…what you are up to this evening?

BENNY

(hopefully)

I thought maybe I would go pick up some Chinese and we could watch a movie or something.

YOLANTA

(amused)

Why you want to watch movie when we just make love better than movie…triple X rating?

BENNY

(wistfully)

That was great.  You’re great…the sexiest woman I’ve ever known.  But I sometimes I just wish we could…I don’t know…get together and just hang out…

YOLANTA

(dismissively)

You are funny funny little man, Venechka.  Sweet…

She hands him his pants off the chair and pulls on a dressing gown.

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

But now you must go.  I need beauty sleep.  Soon I am making my big, how you say, “debut” in reality T.V…I am, very early, training with T.J..

Benny, clearly disappointed stalls for time as he slowly pulls on his cloths.

BENNY

Well, how about tomorrow night we could…

YOLANTA

Tomorrow I am busy.  I have girl night out.

BENNY

So when can I see you again…

YOLANTA

(laughing and smacking Benny playfully on the rear)

Soon.  But right now you go.

EXT. IN FRONT OF LOLO’S BUILDING, DAY

Bobby and Johnny are returning home after an outing at the Zoo.  Johnny carries a large red balloon and Bobby has a Zoo Shop shopping bag containing a giant stuffed monkey.

BOBBY

So monkey is your favorite animal…hunh little man?

Johnny nods yes.  THE ROAR OF AN APPROACHING MOTORCYCLE (O.C.) GROWS LOUDER as the cycle pulls into view — Joaquin driving and Rikki behind him. Spotting Bobby, Rikki jumps off the back of the motorcycle.  Joaquin follows carrying a large duffel bag with a trademark little stuffed monkey attached to the zipper.

RIKKI

So, Bobby…I like this new hair color…but

(frowning sternly)

RIKKI (CONT’D)

We spend too much time looking for you.  Chuy is no happy.  He send us to get back his stuff.

Gesturing to Joaquin who opens the empty duffel bag and drops it down at Bobby’s feet with a menacing glare.

BOBBY

I don’t have it.  But I can explain.  I went to the warehouse like Chuy told me.  And there was a Blood Brother guy waiting for me there just like he said there would be.  And he took the money and gave me two suitcases like Chuy said he would.  But when I went to look inside and check the product…Next thing I know he disappeared.  Those suitcases were full of talcum powder. And I knew Chuy would be mad…I guess I just got scared and…well..  

Turning his attention from Bobby to Johnny as he processes this information Rikki smiles warmly.

RIKKI

Hola Nino.  How are you today?  I like dju balloon.  Red.  In Spanish: “Roja.”

Turning his attention back to Bobby and resuming his drug-gang-enforcer persona.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

So, Amigo, you telling me you got nothing no even the money?

BOBBY

Please.  Tell Chuy I’m going to pay him back the money.

As they talk, Johnny reaches over to touch the little zipper monkey on the duffel bag and Rikki notices.

RIKKI

Oh…Precioso.

(turning to Joaquin)

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Joaquin.

Understanding Rikki’s wordless command, Joaquin bends down, removes the zipper monkey and hands it to the delighted Johnny.  Rikki watches benevolently and then turns resuming his psyco-drug-enforcer demeanor turns back to Bobby.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

O.K.  Let us have the money then.

BOBBY

I, I haven’t got it now but I will have soon.  My sister,

(gesturing to Johnny)

Johnny’s mother, she’s in that big TV show “Final Round.”  She in the finals.  If she wins she gets $10,000.00.  I know she’ll help me out… pay back the money for me.

Rikki slipping into his, effusive, BFF mode for a second at the mention of “Final Round.”

RIKKI

Really…che is in that show.  I chus love that show…

(turning to Joaquin)

We are big fans, right, Sweetie,

Joaquin nods silently.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

And is getting pretty close to the end now.  Which one is your sister?

BOBBY

Lolo.  Lolo DeMateo

RIKKI

Clapping his hands excitedly.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Oooo…Che is my favorite.  I hope che gonna win…

(looking thoughtful)

RIKKI (CONT’D)

But I can no go back to Chuy with nothing and then he is mad at me.

Weighing his options for a moment.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

O.K.  I know what we go to do.

Quickly picking up little Johnny and handing him to Joaquin who, again following wordless orders, walks over to motorcycle and starts it up as Rikki follows taking the baby from Joaquin and placing him in the middle then climbing on the back.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

(looking back towards Bobby)

Nino stays with us till you have Chuy’s money.  Then we bring him back to dju.

Momentarily confused, Johnny looses his grip on his balloon and watches it float away as the three roar off on the motorcycle with Bobby running behind.

BOBBY

Wait.  Please.  You don’t need to take him.  I promise…

RIKKI

(to Johnny)

No worry Cuchura.  Uncle Rikki will get dju a new balloon roja and some ice cream.  O.K.?

CLOSE UP ON THE RED BALLOON as it floats higher and higher and eventually out of sight.

EXT. STREET IN FRONT OF YOLANTA’S APARTMENT BUILDING, NIGHT

POV of a seemingly unfamiliar man sitting inside a rental car across the street from an older twelve story, door man, apartment building gazing intently at the front entrance.  His hair is slicked back, he wears heavy black glasses and has a bushy black moustache.  It is only as our view is expanded to include the interior of the car and the floor of the driver’s area that we realize, from the red alligator print cowboy boots, that this is Benny Eichoff spying on Yolanta who exits the building laughing and hanging all over T.J.. ­

CLOSE UP of Benny’s face, totally bereft, as he pulls off the moustache and glasses and watches them move off down the street arm in arm.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

Lolo is crying and Bobby is trying to comfort her.

BOBBY

So as soon as we give them the money, they’ll bring him back.

LOLO

Bobby…don’t you get it?  The show is fixed.  I can’t win.  That girl from the club the other night…she’s the producer’s girlfriend and she’s the winner.

BOBBY

I’m sorry, Lo, I know I fucked up.  But if we call the police, those guys will vanish taking Johnny with them.  Maybe you can win.  You said those final shows are being filmed in front of a live studio audience.  Plus, at least maybe you can make the $5,000.00 second prize.  That would be enough.

Lolo looks at him hopelessly.

LOLO

(crying)

I just want my baby back.

EXT. STREET OUTSIDE T.V. STUDIO, DAY

A gigantic sign announces the live taping of the final matches of “Final Round.”  A huge mob of young people are standing in line waiting to get into the studio. 

PAN CROWD TO Joaquin and Rikki, uncharacteristically clad in garishly preppie clothing with little Johnny, similarly dressed and contentedly munching on a candy apple, as part of the crowd.

JOAQUIN

And I am telling you, Rikki, it was a mistake to be coming here.

RIKKI

Seriously, Mijo, you worry too much.  Like anyone’s going to recognize us, in this crowd… or anywhere dressed like this.

(spreading his arms dramatically and looking down at his outfit)

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Maybe this is the only chance for him to see his mama fight.  Do dju want to deny him that?

As they continue quibbling, the crowd moves forward into the studio.

INT. TELEVISION STUDIO, DAY

A boxing ring dominates the stage.  Audience members are, including Johnny, Rikki and Joaquin, are led into the spectator area where they are seated in the back.  Lolo, dressed plainly in red boxing shorts and a white sports bra and helmet is sweating profusely as the referee raises her arm as winner of the most recent, runner up, bout.  (O.C.) CHEERING, SCREAMING & BOISTEROUS COMMENTARY FROM AUDIENCE.  Lolo crosses to her opponent and raises that girl’s arm as well demonstrating her humility and sportsmanship to ­MORE CHEERING.  Returning to her corner, Lolo accepts some water Bobby squirts into her mouth and spits. 

CLOSE UP OF LOLO’S FACE as Bobby checks her over and pats her on the back.  Her eyes reflect the stress and fear she is under.  

We hear the ANNOUNCER’S VOICE (O.C.).

ANNOUNCER

And ladies and gentlemen, after a short break, we will move on to our last fight.  This is the one we’ve all been waiting for…the final round of “FINAL ROUND,” the one that will decide who takes home the $10,000.00 prize money.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. HALLWAY OUTSIDE TELEVISION STUDIO – MOMENTS LATER

YOLANTA is preparing to enter the studio.  Looking more like a belly dancer than a boxer, she is attired in a gold sequined sports bra with long gold fringe hanging across her midriff, gold lame boxing shorts also fringed, gold leather boxing gloves and boxing shoes.  Beneath her gold head gear, we see she is wearing full make-up.

T.J.

(leaning in close and speaking in a  pressuring tone of voice)

You sure you got this?  Cause I already got us our L.A. tickets.

(pulling out and flashing two airline tickets)

YOLANTA

I tell you…I am the winner.  Now go sit.  I see you after show.

Benny, carrying a bunch of papers, rounds the corner and enters the hallway just as T.J. gives YOLANTA a kiss on the lips and, with his hand on her rear, pushes her through the door into the studio.  As he turns and walks away he does not even acknowledge Benny who, after giving him a long hard look, moves through the door into the studio as well.

INT. TELEVISION STUDIO – MOMENTS LATER

ANNOUNCER

And now, ladies and gentlemen…the moment we’ve all been waiting on… For our final bout…remaining in the red corner following her most recent victory in that last elimination bout…, representing Chicagoooo City Boxing Cluuuuub, granddaughter of former world light weight boxing champion Johnn DeMateo and boxing royalty…LOLOOOOOOO DEMATEOOOOOOO!!

Lolo stands briefly TO MORE CHEERING and promptly sits back down obviously tired and nervous.

PAN AUDIENCE AND MOVE ON TO Joaquin, Rikki and Johnny.  Rikki noticing Johnny is too small to see past the person in front of him gives Joaquin on of his “unspoken order” looks in response to which Joaquin lifts Johnny onto his shoulders.  (O.C.) WE HEAR ANNOUNCER’S VOICE CONTINUING

ANNOUNCER (CONT’D)

And in the Blue Corner we have a special surprise for you.  Our very own…um…Guest…unh…Contender..who is…unh…undefeated…Ms. YOLANTA Romanov.

MOVE ON TO: YOLANTA as she struts around and climbs into the ring smiling and shimmying her fringe like a card girl in an undeserved display of prowess.  There are A FEW BOOS & CAT CALLS(O.C).

MOVE BACK ON TO:  Joaquin, Rikki and Johnny.

RIKKI

(indignantly)

Who she is, this woman?  Because I no see her in this show before.

(to Joaquin)

Do dju see her in this show before?

Joaquin shakes his head “no.”

RIKKI (CONT’D)

(disgustedly)

Es no a problem being undefeated when dju never have a fight.

As the bell sounds, Rikki switches to an excited child tone.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Oooo look, Nino.  Mama going to fight now.

Lolo and YOLANTA move around the ring — YOLANTA mostly dancing and making rude gestures at Lolo.  Once or twice she raises her hand as if to announce herself as winner.  BOOS FROM AUDIENCE.  Lolo attempts to engage her to no avail as she basically runs away every time LOLO gets close.  The bell sounds without any blows being struck.  The referee directs the fighters to their respective corners.  PAN CROWD &

MOVE ONTO RINGSIDE TABLE WHERE THE THREE EICHOFF COUSINS ARE SITTING WITH THE ANNOUNCER & MICROPHONE

ANNOUNCER

And our first of three rounds goes toooooo:  YOLANTA Romanov

AUDIENCE

Boos & cat calls.  “Hey let’s see some fighting… This ain’t dancin with the stars, is it?  Etc.”

Yolanta continues to strut around the ring like the winner and then goes to sit in Blue Corner where her Three Skankie Girlfriends, as clueless as she is, are “working” her corner by smiling and acting silly and flirtatious with the audience sitting nearby.  The bell rings to announce the second round and Yolanta and Lolo walk to the center and touch gloves.

YOLANTA

( to Lolo)

Make it look good and we end it, now…Yes?

Lolo starts dancing around the ring and throwing some punches.  Yolanta, obviously believing Lolo to be following her instructions, smiles and throws a few completely ridiculous punches which miss Lolo by a mile.  As they come in close proximity to one another YOLANTA hisses at her in annoyance.

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

Stop moving so I am hitting you and knocking you out.

In response, Lolo lands a very solid slam into Yolanta’s jaw causing her to stagger back.

CLOSE UP: Yolanta’s face behind the head gear.

YOLANTA (CONT’D)

(out loud to herself)

This stupid little girl is making too good show.

Lolo approaches and Yolanta’s eyes reflect that she is realizing Lolo is fighting for real.  After another blow, a little blood is coming from Yolanta’s nose.  The bell sounds announcing the end of the second of the three rounds.  Limping slightly Yolanta returns to her corner, looks over to the table where the Eichoff  cousins are seated and catching Benny’s eye opens her hands and tilts her head as if to ask…”What Gives.”  Benny just drops his eyes back to the papers on the table in front of him.

ANNOUNCER

And the second of our three rounds goes to:

He looks at the paper Benny shoves in front of him and registers a surprised look.

ANNOUNCER (CONT’D)

Lolo DeMateo.  It’s a tie ladies and gentlemen.  So the third round will determine who is our grand prize winner. 

The bell sounds for the third round to begin and both fighters move into the ring.  Lolo pulls out the stops and begins wailing on Yolanta.

CUT TO:

FULL SHOT TABLE WHERE THE EICHOFF COUSINS ARE SEATED.

KENNY

Shouldn’t we do something?  She’s killin her.  And didn’t you promise her she would win?

BENNY

You can’t believe everything everyone tells you.

CUT TO:

FULL SHOT BOXING RING – CONTINUOUS

Lolo lands a tremendous blow and Yolanta shakes her head and then falls to the ground where she remains sprawled out for the count.  As the ring doctor checks her, the referee climbs down out of the ring and walks over to the Eichoff cousins, speaks confidentially to Benny for a moment and then takes the checks and returns to the ring.  Where Yolanta is groggily being assisted to her feet.  Lolo stands quietly waiting for Yolanta to be propped up somehow and declared winner.

ANNOUNCER

And now, ladies and gentlemen, in a stunning turn of events…the winner for both the runner up and the final round…

He moves to raise Lolo’s head above her head and the crowd CHEERS.  The three skanks assist Yolanta out of the ring.

CUT TO:

FULL SHOT JOHNNY, JOAQUIN & RIKKI – MOMENTS LATER

RIKKI

(gleefully)

You mommy win Nino.  She win.

PAN THE AUDIENCE as they begin exiting their seats and flowing out of the studio.

CUT TO:

FULL SHOT CLOSE UP LOLO & BOBBY – CONTINUOUS

Bobby helps Lolo remove her gloves and then holds her hands and looks into her face.

BENNY

You did it, Lo, you won the whole thing.  I still can’t believe it.

LOLO

(tired and anxious)

So now all we gotta do is find those guys, give them the money and get Johnny back…

PULL BACK TO SHOW

Unbeknownst to them, Joaquin, Rikki and Johnny are threading through the seats and approaching them from the back.  Johnny sees his mom, cries out, breaks away and runs towards her.

JOHNNY

Mommy, mommy, mommy.

Lolo turns around and climbs out of the ring to grab Johnny and spins him around kissing him all over repeatedly.  Then, becoming aware of Rikki & Joaquin she extends her hand with one of the two checks she is still holding towards them.

LOLO

Here’s the money.

RIKKI

(Pushing her hand back)

You kip it, Mija.  You earn it.

JOAQUIN

And what we are going to tell Chuy?

RIKKI

No dju worry about my cousin Chuy.  We go to tell him the truth.  This whole thing es no Roberto’s fault.  Es Chuy’s own fault for doing business with those guys when I tell him long time ago they no have honor.  So maybe now he will listen to me.

(smiling at Johnny)

We go to miss you Nini…

(looking at Joaquin)

But dju are right, Mi Amor, the children they are a lot of work…maybe I not yet ready to be a mama…

LOLO

Well…thank you for taking such good care of Johnny.

RIKKI

It was our pleasure.  Maybe some time we come visit with him if we are ever in Chicago again.  But right now, he needs Mommy. 

Rikki reaches over to pat Johnny’s head and then glances over at Joaquin with one of his wordless commands and Joaquin removes the baby diaper bag he is carrying over his shoulder and hands it wordlessly to Lolo.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

No forget dju Tio Rikki and dju Tio Joaquin, Querido…

Johnny smiles and reaches out in a friendly wave to Rikki.

RIKKI (CONT’D)

Joaquin…

Rikki turns and, as if walking a runway, struts out empty theatre with Joaquin following wordlessly behind.

INT. HALLWAY OUTSIDE TELEVISION STUDIO – MOMENTS LATER

Yolanta and T.J. are in a heated conversation.

YOLANTA

Screen test.  Screen test.  Screen test.  This is all you care about.  Well I have news flash for you…you never going to be big star.  And you not good trainer either.  Why you not teach me better so I can win…?

T.J.

You said you didn’t really have to fight the best…you said the money was a gift…

YOLANTA

That guy, Benny, he is a little worm.  And you…you are stupid too.  Lucky for me I have good new boyfriend who is very rich…and he is wanting to take me to Paris…soooo

Turning on her heal Yolanta stalks off with all her gold fringe wiggling.  As T.J. stands there looking at the airline tickets he is holding he is approached by one of YOLANTA’s Three Skanky Girlfriends who overheard the conversation.

SKANKY GIRLFRIEND

Did I ever mention that I have an uncle in L.A. I’ve been meaning to visit.

T.J.

And?

SKANKY GIRLFRIEND

And he’s in the entertainment industry…and I’m his favorite niece.

T.J.

(looking interested)

So, girl, what’s your name again?

As they walk off down the hall arm in arm they encounter a very attractive woman walking in the opposite direction. 

MOVE ONTO CLOSE UP OF T.J. as he turns his head backwards to watch the attractive woman walking down the hall demonstrating his true colors.  (O.C.) we hear Skanky Girlfriend chattering on…

SKANKY GIRLFRIEND

And then I’ll call my uncle and he can pick us up at the airport.  But first I need to pack a few things …What time did you say the flight is…Blah, Blah, Blah.

INT. LOLO’S ROOM, NIGHT

The coffee table is laden with heaps of food and Lolo, Bobby, Maria, Fin and little Johnny are all sitting around eating, laughing and talking.

FIN

So Maria’s got so many a them…whaddya call’em “yuppies” coming ta tha gym now…it’s like I’m in a office or sumptin.

MARIA

(laughing)

Don’t say that like it’s a bad thing.  We’re making a fortune and they’re payin for a lot of new programs for the neighborhood kids that we couldn’t afford before and now we can.

BOBBY

I heard you guys even started some sorta organization to research head injuries and get better benefits for professional boxers…

LOLO

(smiling at Maria)

You are so awesome.

FIN

(to Lolo)

So whad’about you, Sweetheart, whatcha got planned now that your T.V. career  is over.

LOLO

(refilling everyone’s wine glass)

Well, it’s not exactly over. That producer guy, the goofy one…

MARIA

They were all goofy if you ask me.

LOLO

The one who was dating that last girl I fought…well it turns out his dad was so happy with how successful “Final Round” was that he’s got him doing another reality T.V. show., “POSERS.”  And you’ll never believe it but he called me up and asked me to work with him on it.

FIN

I thought you was done wit boxing except for keeping fit.

LOLO

It’s not about boxing.  It’s about learning how to get your dream job even if you’re a single mom…I guess there are a lot of us out there.  The contestants pose as members of their dream occupation or profession and get graded by random strangers on their job performance.  Then there’s this part where they are revealed as only pretending.  The contestants who score highest are given training and education for their dream job and introduced to mentors in their field.

MARIA

Sounds like a lot of good will come of that show.  I guess it’s worth it to put up with that goof ball for awhile longer, hunh?

LOLO

Funny thing, when you get him away from his cousins, he’s not such a goof ball.  He took me out to dinner the other night to discuss the show and he was…I don’t know…sort a sweet.  Said he want’s to get involved in something, how did he put it, “socially relevant” for a change.

BOBBY

Well, I’m thinking I might hang around Chicago for a while, myself.  The owner of the Corner Club is opening another bar and he’s looking for someone to manage Corner Club.  So, if you need help I’m here and I promise not to let JOAQUIN & RIKKI kidnap my favorite nephew again.  By the way,  they sent a post card that they’re passing thru Chicago soon and want to stop by a visit Johnny again, if it’s OK.

Everyone raises their glass and has a sip of wine with the exception of little Johnny who picks up his sippy cup and mimics the adults in raising his glass.

FADE OUT\FADE OUT:

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