Mirror Image

INT. RUSSIAN-CONTROLLED BANK BUILDING CALIFORNIA - DAY
There has been a major reorientation &; reorganization in the
Mafiya, thanks to the blind eye turned by the powers that be in
Washington and on Wall Street; the 'next generation' of the breed is
Americanized, and primed for less direct, quieter scams as well as
legitimate investments........it is 1995.
GRIGORI KINSKI
(to the gathered braintrust)
Inspire me.....
STAN PLOTZ
Mr. Chairman, with your permission, I've got our newest 'consultant',
very hip, very 'down'.....

(cut off)
GRIGORI KINSKI
Let's go, money is time.
(self-amused)
Into the room strides a GQ'd African American, 50ish, making eye
contact with the Chairman immediately.
STAN PLOTZ
Winston Davis, Jr., graduate of London School of
Economics.......
GRIGORI KINSKI
Best professors Russian, for years; Joe Kennedy, Jr. dazzled by them;
big dummy, they were goddam socialists! We prefer casino capitalism;
proceed.
WINSTON DAVIS, JR.
(impressed with the Russian's savvy knowledge)
Gentlemen, say hello to Elvis, the true international finance
professor, E-meri-tus.
(he flashes a Power Point slide on the preset screen from a
laptop)
Posthumously, of course, he, or "IT", nets twenty times the revenue
compared to when he was undead, a term I use advisedly.
GRIGORI KINSKI
New and improved Rasputin, eh?
(bemused smile, mimicked around the table, except by Davis)
WINSTON DAVIS, JR.
The distinction being, Mr. Chairman, that this particular undead entity
doesn't waste his time with women, never really did, or
stimulants----at least not anymore----no, IT sucks currency----ITS
forte is bocu Dollars, in exponential orders of magnitude, worldwide,
every year greater by rate and quantity. IT is truly the gift that
keeps on .....taking.
STAN PLOTZ
In every country, except Mother Russia and the CIS remnants is a whole
subculture of Elvis Impersonators currently, Japan has the most per
capita.
WINSTON DAVIS, JR.
Thank you, Stanislav....
(cut off)
STAN PLOTZ
These days, it's Stan, we goin with the flow, you dig?
WINSTON DAVIS, JR.
Clever, right down to the 50's argot!
(smiling broadly)

Gentlemen,I have the privilege to present to you the most ambitious,
American-ized, acclimat-ized ,'prime-time-ized'and international-ized
proposition ever laid before the smarter-than-the-average Bear
(smilingly uttering)
As in Russian Bear, New World Order entrepreneurial class:
(he prompts next slide)
"Operation Rednik".
STAN PLOTZ
We have to actually live in Tennessee?
(laughing)
On the screen is an image of Graceland, Memphis, Tenn.
WINSTON DAVIS, JR.
Au contraire, that would be bad form: no, the Shrine houses the Great
Spirit Itself, Holy of Holies, etc.
GRIGORI KINSKI
We know about such places, have Israeli passports, own businesses
there: understand, we always hate Communism----goddam rigged for Party
officials, party never invited to.
WINSTON DAVIS, JR.
Touche! I myself am a member of the Tribe and, for other apparent
non-reasons, have been told that I 'needn't apply' most of my life.
But, when the color is green, I'm on the scene!
(they all join in laughter)
GRIGORI KINSKI
Please, to continue.
WINSTON DAVIS, JR.

Yes, fact is, like all universal Brands, it must have a life unto
itself. Gentlemen, forget Coca-Cola, Microsoft or any other corporate
monopoly you care to conjure or control: this is THE ultimate Brand,
emblazoned on the very soul of anyone old enough to remember the 50's,
and guaranteed, bless their acquisitive little hearts---and brains---to
be passed along to successive generations worldwide. "Do the math,
baby."
Winston has a 'Viva Las Vegas' style music-backgrounded panoply of
Elvis paraphernalia brought in with merchandising packaging; also, each
item is carried by an Impersonator from several racial groups, each in
a different costume. They 'pose' in various contorted postures, all
with the classic rockabilly sneer, and leave, one by one.
STAN PLOTZ
This rock n roll music, stolen from your people, correct-----please to
share with the Chair.
(amused by his failed hipness)
WINSTON DAVIS, JR.
Brings me to my next point: what is Elvis, but the Tool----Capitalist,
that is-----meets Cool. Got this global pan-Americanization thing in
motion, and the capitalists,undisciplined greedy rascals that they will
tend to become over time----present company excluded, of course---- so
busy exploiting their zero-sum asses off they have forgotten the first
rule of Cool: gotta make em believe that you just did em a favor taking
their money-----yessir, gotta be service-d with a smile. And who else
but the Icon with the MikeOn should serve as its Ambassador.
(he flashes more hi-tech graphics featuring shots of fanatical fans
worldwide in a now darkened room)

Hey, if Col. Sanders can sell fried chicken to my folks, the Chinese
and every other kind of people, what can't Elvis, Inc. sell to
anyone!
No, the ripoff is the tipoff: got to get with the Game Theory NON-zero
program-----gotta share or be square, as in Square One, never to leave
said square. Didn't respect my people's assets so they missed the
multiple facets of the whole enterprise---today, all races want to
groove to our music, and Elvis started it all. In short, in this
particular deal, 'Win/Win' never saw this kinda spin!
GRIGORI KINSKI
And, Mr. Davis, Jr., what will your services cost us?
WINSTON DAVIS, JR.
(smiling solicitously)
Was that your Daddy teaching those economics classes in London?
(nervously gauging the reaction to his attempted humor)
given the passive royalty gross from almost every conceivable product
or service we will Elvisize, my fee will be very reasonable: out of
respect, I would ask that you make me an offer.....
GRIGORI KINSKI
Can't refuse, eh?
(snarlingly spoken)
HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA! Always wanted to say that! MR. Davis, please,
we are THE original horse traders: send us written proposal; anything
else?
WINSTON DAVIS, JR.
One more item on the food for thought platter: as I am not a one-man
band, but a conglomerate, much like yourselves,a certain Mr. Jackson,
ex-hubbie to the heiress herself, is a client, and general source in
the inside information department, if you take my meaning.
STAN PLOTZ
Now that is about as 'inside' as you can get......meaning
'taken'!
(laughter around the table)
Can you throw in the other Mr. Jackson, as well?
WINSTON DAVIS, JR.
You guessed it, my very own speechwriter!
Davis exits and another 'presenter' group is summoned to urge
investment in its direction.
STAN PLOTZ
(to 'The Chairman')
Mr. Chairman, 'Elvis' has left the building-----something I always
wanted to say------ have another interesting investment today
......
(cut off)
GRIGORI KINSKI
Stop; cancel others, want to talk with financial people from New York,
should be here soon. Reschedule for next week, and leave me with Sasha,
um, need some down time.
STAN PLOTZ
Of course.
(he rises to leave)
GRIGORI KINSKI
What means this 'Elvis has left building'?
STAN PLOTZ
Oh, just Americanism for everything safe &; secure.
GRIGORI KINSKI
(he looks puzzled)
You got to pay royalties for saying that?! HAHahahahahha! Don't forget
to ask Mr. Cool Dude that one: if not, when we buy out whole Presley
thing WE will charge royalty fees, eh!
(he is alone with Sasha)
So, verushka, give me your wisdom.
Sasha is Chairman's favorite mistress, and a close advisor on business
matters; she holds a Ph.D. in International Finance from Wharton and is
second generation Russian American.
SASHA VOLOSHUN
He's right on the numbers, and the deal he recently cut with a certain
sheik for the King of Pop, say proposition is interesting, if we can
afford it.
GRIGORI KINSKI
If New York tells me what I expect to hear, we---- our Mutual Funds----
can afford whole Jackson Five and fans!
SASHA VOLOSHUN
Amusing; are we secure with this Wall Street group-----they are so
young, so.....
(cut off)
GRIGORI KINSKI
Pure and loyal, darling; they are all related by blood to my 'vor v
zakoyne', best schools in Europe and America, top of classes: believe
when I tell you, 'Elvis has left the building for good.'
SASHA VOLOSHUN
So then, Mr. Fortune 500, what is on the calendar for this
evening?
GRIGORI KINSKI
Am glad you ask: you will accompany me to fundraiser for Senator of
this very Golden State-----I am a guest of honor.
SASHA VOLOSHUN
I suppose I accept, despite the short notice: tell me, do you miss
Mother Russia, after all this success and power?
GRIGORI KINSKI
But, darling, Russia is wherever I am; in the gulag prisons learned
important lesson: authority, wherever it is, is legal excuse for one
smaller group to fuck the larger one, which is made up of little
groups, busy fighting each other, according to the elite's plan-----a
pox on all their houses, we only retaliate against those who exclude us
along with suffering masses for no reason except can.

We prosper giving world's people what they want: freedom to do what
they want, however unacceptable to Authorities, including Pope, upset
because they no longer get cut---- the elite, who say what is llicit,
right?
(chuckling)

But, like our host this evening, they know that we also want it both
ways, just like them, is why so easy. We are just stronger brand of
capitalism, practiced by them not so long ago.
SASHA VOLOSHUN
I am at a lecture!-----sorry, my student days are over: let's just
summarize:
You are triple espresso to their bland coffee....you heard it at
Armenian summit: 'why rob a bank when you can own one?', yes,
Grigori?
GRIGORI KINSKI
Yes, my dear like tonight, politicians see good investments which will
come of our newly washed dollars!
(she perches on his lap, embracing him heartily)
FADE OUT.
INT. U.S. COMPTROLLER OF THE CURRENCY OFFICES WASHINGTON, DC -
DAY
A senior investigator is meeting with a relevant Congressional
committee counsel; it is well after business hours.

SHARON SCHWARTZ
Dammit, Dirk, you're not listening!
(she throws a thick official report at the wall)
DIRK GENTLEY
It's not me. I think you know where the problem lies.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Yes, right choice of words--'lies', however Freudian.
DIRK GENTLEY
Whoa, skewering the messenger ain't the solution. Look, we've got
subpoena power, get jerked around by protected banks regularly on
technicalities left open.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Tell me about it, after three years on a goddam federal money
laundering task force, I OK a final draft telling it like it is, so I
read the final report to the White House and Bingo, the truth got
treated like a four letter word.

DIRK GENTLEY
Actually, it's a five letter word
(smiling to becalm his friend)
Fact is, they don't want to see any reports, media are trained fucking
parrots. We both have horror stories: friend of mine at the CIA says
they're treated like Chicken Little when they dared criticize a certain
Russian friend who gave his wife a goddam Russian doll.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Well, I've had it, thinking of going public.....
(cut off)
DIRK GENTLEY
Through whom, the media? You're outflanked. Already decided, a few
million eggs are gonna be broken worldwide to make this Russian
omelette. It's the status quo's favorite game,'trickle down', boys and
girls, only this time the stuff trickling to and from the clueless mass
of these bodies politic is not just the color of money but 'red', as
in.....
SHARON SCHWARTZ
These reports are classified, getting un-read by these blow-dried
Neros!
DIRK GENTLEY
'Them that's got, shall get'...
(looks around furtively)
let me buy you a drink, this isn't the place......
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Sure, but no goddam Vodka!
FLASHBACK TO 1975:
EXT. SNOWY RESIDENTIAL STREET IN WALTHAM, MASS. - DAY
Sharon Schwartz, age 8, walking home from school; she has eschewed the
schoolbus from school to satisfy her curiosity about an orphanage; she
is very late getting home.
SHARON'S MOTHER
(addressing her neighbor in the car)
There she is!
MOTHER'S FRIEND
I'll get as close to the curb as I can, snow's really piling up.
(they get out of the car)
SHARON'S MOTHER
Sharon, are you crying? Did someone bother or hurt you?!
SHARON SCHWARTZ
(sniffling and talking at same time)
Nooo.....it's just that, why don't.......they.....
SHARON'S MOTHER
(to friend)
I think someone's touched her....
(cut off)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Mommy, I'm not hurt, not on the outside or anything like that: why
don't these children have a place to live of their own, like me and
you?
(sobbing)
SHARON'S MOTHER
Sweetheart, you had us so scared, not taking the bus and all....honey,
this is an orphanage for children who've lost their mommy and daddy.
They're taken care of, isn't that right, Carol?
CAROL HARPER
Sure are; they get to go on trips just like your school class
and....
(cut off)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
It's not the same; my friend at school said they were bad, that's why
they are here. Is that true, maybe if I played with them they could get
better?
CAROL HARPER
Poor dear, that's just a fib, this isn't a reform school or anything,
just a home, that's all.
SHARON'S MOTHER
Come on, let's get out of this storm, we can talk about it at home,
over some hot cocoa.
CUT TO FEW MINUTES LATER:
INT. SHARON'S MODEST CHILDHOOD HOME - EVENING
Mrs. Schwartz, a widow and her friend Carol, also widowed, bemoan
Sharon's apparent unhappiness.
SHARON'S MOTHER
Poor thing, fell right asleep, not like her, didn't even say her Shema
Yisrael; she's obssessed with that orphanage, and stray cats!
CAROL HARPER
Misses her Daddy, they were so close.
SHARON'S MOTHER
That's only part of it; God knows he was a wonderful guy, until the
last, but she's just so aware of others, it's not natural for a girl
her age.
CAROL HARPER
Who's to say-----Joan of Arc was only a girl when she heard her
'voice'. Let's get some coffee, with an Irish twist, chilled to the
bone.
CUT TO PRESENT DAY:
INT. HOUSE BANKING SUBCOMMITTEE HEARING - DAY
Another in a series of public hearings held to appear to be addressing
the rampant money-laundering worldwide coming home to roost in the
U.S.banking system. There is only one Congressman in attendance.
SHOT: CAMERA PANS THE SLEEPY FEW INTERNS AND COMMITTEE STAFF BEHIND THE
DAIS WITH DIALOGUE MOSTLY AS VOICE OVER; PAN EMPTY SEATING IN AUDIENCE
AREA.
CHAIRMAN FERGUSON
Uh, this hearing will come to order.
(he is distracted by an aide)
Ladies and gentlemen, we're going to have to adjourn briefly so as to
get a quorum. Reconvene in 30 minutes.
(the usual crowd noise)
JAMES WALSH (O.S.)

(gets up, walks over to reporter)
Figures; can't say how many times I've watched the members' eyes glaze
over when the details start coming, the few sets of eyes that show up,
that is.
FELICIA HERNANDEZ (O.S.)

Tell me about it, my Producer gave me Hell about coming down here:'No
public interest, too bean-counterish'----so much for the Fourth Estate,
Peter Zenger, blah, blah, blah.
JAMES WALSH
Can hear your Producer now: 'Who the Hell is Peter Zenger?' Jesus, no
victim like the one who beggin its own demise, huh.
FELICIA HERNANDEZ
Hey, these poor schmucks who draft the self-congratulatory copy, they
actually believe it-----'having won the Cold War, we are the world's
only remaining Super Power!' I get nauseous, really; just look what
these Russian mobsters been getting away with, makes the last fifty
years' Defense budgets look like----aside from futile----the old
medical days: you don't see the germs, they don't exist!
JAMES WALSH
Yeah, well, public doesn't know squat or want to. Beat goes
on......want to get some coffee?
FELICIA HERNANDEZ
Yeah, triple espresso if I'm gonna make it through the lame questioners
who don't want to upset the folks back home.

FLASHBACK TO EARLY 1990'S:

EXT. SNOWY STREET IN DOWNTOWN MOSCOW - DAY
A luxury SUV pulls up outside a nondescript building housing one of
many new private 'banks' in Russia's capital. Driver parks haphazardly,
oblivious to delineated parking space.
RUSSIAN THUG
Fifth floor, boss.
ILYA KROTNIK
Wait here, won't be long.
(motions to his bodyguards)
Come, boychiks.
INT. ORNATE BANK OFFICES - DAY
The visitors breeze past outer office personnel.
ILYA KROTNIK
(to secretarial worker)
Here to open new accounts-----who is in charge?
SECRETARY
Mr. Kavortny; may I say who .......
(she is ignored, as they proceed into his office behind double
doors)
ILYA KROTNIK
(he puts a stainless steel briefcase onto bank official's desk)
Open for surprise
(it is opened revealing much cash)
; wish to open new account.
MR. KAVORTNY
Will this be personal or business account?
(he is outwardly very nervous)
ILYA KROTNIK
Is both: personal, in your name, and business, as we now handle your
paperwork, while you enjoy new account.
(smiling broadly)
MR. KAVORTNY
But Central Bank will have many questions about such a transaction,
there are certain agreed Western methods we....
(interrupted)
ILYA KROTNIK
You are not responsible, have been promoted, so to say. We don't
expect you to get hands dirty with so much bureaucracy, yes?
MR. KAVORTNY
I.....see; when do I begin my new duties?
ILYA KROTNIK
Already!; my associates will help organize move to new position. Come
back tomorrow, we show you new organizational chart----Boris, take our
new co-worker home to wife and kids, eh, and make sure you walk him to
his door, want him and family to remain safe.
(smiling conspiratorially)
CUT TO:
EXT. YEREVAN, CAPITAL OF ARMENIA - DAY
An international Who's Who of wiseguys is convening to carve up the
world: the meet has been set up by a person well-respected by all,
Vitaly Svokenko-----all major syndicates are represented: LCN,
Sicilians, Germans, Turks, South Americans, Mainland Italians.
VITALIY SVOKENKO
(greeting each contingent disembarking two chartered 727s)
Ah, my brothers, welcome, welcome, please to board limousines to
gathering!!
A phalanx of limousines winds its way to a Dacha well guarded and
remote; there are women, lots of exotic food and much 'free' booty,
like stolen Rolexes, as party favors. Svokenko is the Master of
Ceremonies.
CUT TO ONE HOUR LATER:
INT. LARGE RUSSIAN STYLE DACHA - AFTERNOON
The centerpiece of the gathering is being discussed: where and how to
launder their respective ill-gotten gains most efficiently. A youngish
Russian economics expert, on the payroll, is holding forth.
ALEXI GRABANOFF
....and by far most favorable location for cash deposits is in Russia,
now that Panama compromised, thanks to CIA-----apparently Bushy boy not
gettting cut big or fast enough from Noriega! And Zurich, well, Swiss
are greedy pimps, and we don't control, yet.
(uproarious laughter)
So, thanks to our new 'free' market methods, we now control most of
2,000 banks; Central Bank is new and afraid to regulate; each time bank
auditor comes snooping, gets gun in face----audit over, for good!
He clicks laptop overhead projector of elaborate graphics of "How To'
for Financial Crime.
SHOT: SHOW GLITZY GRAPHICS FOR CRIME PRIMER.
ALEXI GRABANOFF (cont'd) (O.S.) (CONT'D)

Now, here is best method for doing 'laundry': say you acquire non-cash
goods--- liquidate on spot market, our front companies in place in
Europe wire proceeds to London for deposit. Then, through one of
Russian banks, place order with correspondent bank in U.S.----we like
Republican Bank to get 'party' &; bank at same time!
(laughs)
-----for X million U.S. Via Purchase Order; Republican buys currency
from U.S. Federal Reserve; now, at same time Republican Bank gets wire
from London for same account. Republican gets easy commission, and nice
American Boeing jet brings bags of money for you to Mother
Russia!
LA COSA NOSTRA REP
What's to stop that plane from gettin jacked?
(he is translated to Russian)
ALEXI GRABANOFF
Good question; word is put out anybody fuck with plane has deceased
family whose demise he will witness, slowly. EXpect no jacking.
SOUTH AMERICAN CARTEL REP
Why should gringo government not stop this first day?
ALEXI GRABANOFF
Another good question: simple answer: money is money to them----simple,
their laws do not require Republican Bank or any other bank to check
out Russian bank customers, only if Russian bank set up under Russian
law----simple, leave to us! Plus, U.S. make $99.96 On every Franklin
sends over here. Finally, their government policy people looking other
way, figuring we invest now clean dollars in U.S. economy, make
jobs-----and, of course, they are right in part; just like the
Communist apparatchiks who lived like elite in Party, these American
elite have control, just want us to help keep THEIR masses happy.

SOUTH AMERICAN CARTEL REP
I move we vote on plan, ready to celebrate!
VITALIY SVOKENKO
Before we take vote, any more questions or comments about what we are
calling Lansky Plan, after godfather of money cleaning?
(there is one hand raised)
GERMAN REP
What about IMF, don't they have conditions for bank reform?
ALEXI GRABANOFF
Yes, we sit and listen, through rotating Deputy Prime Ministers, tell
what want to hear, and so far take is $25 billion dollars; when they
try for help of U.S. Government in tracing use of this money, U.S.
refuse to cooperate----have I answered your question? Remember,
gentlemen, Panama did not have nuclear missiles to extort such funds,
we do.
VITALIY SVOKENKO
Well, as there are no more questions, we will vote on this, then move
on to territorial agreements and, then, as our brother from the
interesting part of America suggests, we shall celebrate.
(applause &; whistles)
FADE TO PRESENT DAY.
SIX MONTHS AFTER ELVIS PRESENTATION
INT. LOS ANGELES METROPOLITAN CORRECTIONAL CENTER - DAY
Ms. Schwartz, has been true to her threat, and has quit the
Comptroller's Office and begun her quest in search of the Mafiya.
Through contacts on the Hill, she has managed to get a Most Wanted
List, and, through expat Russian friends in academia has been able to
gain interviews with key subjects on the List.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
(checking in at the guard station)
Yes, here to see Ilya Krotnik.
STATION GUARD
Just sign here, and leave me some picture ID please.
(she does so)
Your escort will be out in a moment; she'll take you through.
CUT TO FEW MINUTES LATER:
INT. DINGY ROOM WITH TWO-WAY GLASS DIVIDER - DAY
They are seated directly across from each other; there is a guard in an
adjoining cell-like room, surveilling.
ILYA KROTNIK
You know, the only reason I see you, other than cigarettes, is because
of Dr. Krasnikov------families from same village as me. He is good man,
tried to help brother, is long story.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
He told me something about it; my paternal family is Russian, from the
hamlet of Pravda, have you heard of it?
SHOTS INTERMIXED DURING ENTIRE SCENE/DIRECTOR'S CALL: CAMERA SHOWS
MONTAGE OF 'STREET SCENES' DESCRIBED BY ILYA; FROM THUGGISH DESPERATION
TO PRIVATION, BOTH PREDATOR AND VICTIM ARE EQUALLY IMPOVERISHED IN A
SYSTEM OBLIVIOUS TO NON-PARTY APPARATCHIKS.
ILYA KROTNIK
You kidding, must have robbed everyone there, no killing, though. Was
big street criminal in Russia. They were my heroes, who hated
State-----ha, 'state', I tell you, Communist Party, nothing but thugs
inside their own Mob! Hating government easy where I come from.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
So there never was a 'workers' paradise'; my grandfather spoke very
harshly about official greed and persecution, and not just of the
Jews.....
(interrupted by laughter)
ILYA KROTNIK
Sorry, but Westerners very naive about Revolution; before and after
nothing but serfs! So maybe get lousy factory job, big deal, still
working to make Party fatcats powerful. They had own world of stores,
foreign goods.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
The scholars I have spoken with tell me that this is nothing new, that
even before the Revolution, the gulags were full of people who were
undesirable.
ILYA KROTNIK
Yes, of course, the 'vor v vakonye', how do you say, thieves related by
legal oppression. See this
(he suddenly hikes his pants knee high, opens his shirt halfway)
Eagle on both knees: means I never will bow to these pigs. Not easy to
join; me, was baby, youngest ever.
(he beams with pride)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
When did you come to the States &; how did you get involved in
laundering money?
ILYA KROTNIK
Got here late 70's, before, thanks to your Congress, was released
through Israel; then was sent to resettlement camps, Vienna, Rome;
there we waited. But was good wait, meeting fellows from prisons going
to different countries; later, when got here, had contacts in six
countries----very good for business.
(grinning again)
Only reason caught, pissed off at asshole American banker in
California; we bought ownership interest below disclosure level, 10\%,
so official did not like us bossing him around, shit like that, but got
really pissed I started using his parking space....to get blow
job!
(laughing)
ILYA KROTNIK (cont'd)
Got little aggressive with cop who show up to ask my business there:
told him should be obvious, then punch him in face.....hey, was
high!
CUT TO FEW MINUTES LATER:

INT. PRISON GUARD INNER OFFICES - MOMENTS LATER
They are taping Ms. Schwartz at the request of the FBI. A SAC and a
prison official are smiling, the SAC is on the phone to his superiors
with a preview. They have almost a full hour of material to work with;
the visitation time is almost over; they did not extend it so as not to
arouse suspicion.

CUT TO FEW MINUTES LATER:
INT. VISITATION ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
SHARON SCHWARTZ
One question more, as our time is about up: who of these people should
I seek out about the money-laundering schemes?
(she shows him he list through the glass)
ILYA KROTNIK
But even with what have told you, none of them--not even me-- knows as
much as guy in Miami; tell him Ilya, "Lansky II" sent you, otherwise
won't see you.
(he tells her the name, she writes it down)
Aren't you going to ask how many I killed?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Truthfully, afraid to; but shouldn't you add yourself to the
list?
ILYA KROTNIK
Lady, dead long before ever held gun; you take good care of yourself,
wouldn't want someone so pretty getting killed by some of my less nice
brudders-----you remind me of my wife!
(he laughs heartily)
Come back to see me if you need more help-----I know your government
does. Don't believe me, talk to 'dancing bear' Boris, he warned you:
Mother Russia is still Superpower------of Crime! Know for fact Italians
would give a lot to have own country like us; too late for them,
though, work for us now.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
I'll be in touch, Mr. Krotnik.
(she gets up to leave)
ILYA KROTNIK
Call me Ilya, you know, like guy on "Man from UNCLE."
(laughing to himself)
FLASHBACK TO 1995:
INT. KREMLIN FOREIGN DIGNITARIES BALLROOM - DAY
Seated around an ornately decorated room are visitors bearing gifts for
the Yeltsin Regime.
MR. SANFORD RENTLESMANN
Well, gentlemen, we at the IMF are most interested in your progress
since our last meeting; as we are unable to collate the data
sufficiently due to the recency of the creation of your Central Bank,
we hope to learn from you as much as possible.
DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER POTEMKIN
Gentlemen, and Ladies, welcome all;
(an aide scurries to put data in front of all in attendance)
Now, to business: am pleased to announce that your farsighted
assistance has already begun to bear fruit.
MS. CLAUDIA SCHIFFREN
For whom, precisely, Mr. Prime Minister, that is the central question
is it not? Appropos to that matter, are you descended from Prince
Potemkin, under Catherine the Great?
(she is the sole skeptic in the entourage)
DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER POTEMKIN
But, of course, madame, but surely you would concur that the word
'central' has been expelled from our economic vocabulary, mmmmm!
(he begins the ice-breaking laughter)
As for my heritage, am distantly related to Prince......as you know, so
many of our Russian ancestors were 'under' the Empress!
(smiling at his scatology)
MS. CLAUDIA SCHIFFREN
Seriously, it is our hope that your regime will do for Russia much of
the good that she did, with the exception of her economic
shortcomings.
(still jabbing, probing)
DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER POTEMKIN
I agree, and that is our plan, to learn from past mistakes, whether
under monarchy or Soviet system, roughly equivalent to one another,
frankly; You see, our markets, modeled closely upon your own, are just
beginning to work; indeed, the strongest of the strong is our budding
import/export sector, you can see here.
(he motions to an aide at a laptop slide activator)
You see, the graphics are au courant, thanks to your genius computer
boys!
CUT TO ONE HOUR LATER:
THE 'COMMISAR' AS HE IS KNOWN IN FINANCIAL CIRCLES HAS JUST DAZZLED THE
IMF FOLKS WITH WIT,HI-TECH WIZARDRY AND CHARTS/HANDOUTS----ALL
FICTIONAL OF COURSE: SHOW DOG &; PONY SHOW, WITH BLURR OF DATA,
FAST-PACED, REMINISCENT OF SLICKEST WALL STREET ANALYSTS MEETING, SANS
DIALOGUE.
DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER POTEMKIN (CONT'D)
And so, you see, the Duma leadership has assured me personally----the
letter is in your folders-----that this program will continue to be
implemented long-term.
MR. HOLST VAN METER
As for me, I am greatly reassured; and I bring with me reassurance for
you from the EU that Europe stands ready to welcome Russia into the
family of nations, both east and west.
MS. JENNIFER CLAMPENT
Allow me to echo those sentiments on behalf of the current
Administration; we are most pleased.
DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER POTEMKIN
And, now, shall we adjourn to the reception room, used by Czar Peter
the Great himself, newly restored by our great President Yeltsin.
(he rises and leads them in)
The room is filled with well-dressed Russian oligarchs, posing as the
Vanderbiltian Robber Barons of their nation, as they have proven
themselves to be. Weaving into the room comes Yeltsin himself, on cue
from a listening post in the Kremlin.
PRESIDENT BORIS YELTSIN
.....and where is my good friend Bill's representative, have
present!
He is red in the face, grinning like that infamous cat from "Through
the Looking Glass".
JUMP CUT TO SPRING 2000:

EXT. JFK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT - EVENING
An armored car is offloading dozens of bags of currency from the
Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
BAGGAGE HANDLER
(to his coworker)
Sure would like to have one a them!
COWORKER
Hey, man, you crazy, what if somebody hear you; don't you know whose
money that is?
BAGGAGE HANDLER
Yeah, not mine! What you so uptight about?
COWORKER
Just doan be saying stuff like that round here
(he covers his mouth)
Dat's mob money, man.
BAGGAGE HANDLER
Say what? Says on the bags "Property of Federal Reserve", see
there.
COWORKER
Fool, where's this plane go every week?
BAGGAGE HANDLER
Russia.....
(cut off)
COWORKER
That's right-----ain't you read the papers this last few years: whole
damn country up for grabs, banks, factories, the whole damn mess.
BAGGAGE HANDLER
So what?
COWORKER
So why hadn't this plane ever been hijacked or the armored car robbed
or any of these bags gone missin?
BAGGAGE HANDLER
Beats me, scared a getting caught, seems to me just like any other
felony act, right?
COWORKER
Caught ain't what you gotta worry bout, man, way I heard it: what you
gots to be concerned about is you being skinned alive and your family
killed in front of you, dig?
BAGGAGE HANDLER
Shut up, man, someone's comin!
A heavy set thick-necked man walks up to the armored truck driver, and
signs a clipboard.
RUSSIAN MAN
Everything good?
ARMORED DRIVER
Yessir, no problemo, as usual; how are things back home?
RUSSIAN MAN
How should I know, live here!
(laughs loudly)
Little private joke, not to worry; take rest of night off!
(walking away, laughing to self, shaking his head)
ARMORED DRIVER
(to baggage handlers)
Act like they own the goddam country, Jesus.
Sharon Schwartz, waiting for her flight to Miami, has observed the
scene below her, as her airline VIP lounge is adjacent to Delta flight
30 to Moscow; she decides to flash her old federal credentials to
security and proceeds down to the tarmac.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Scuse me, may I speak to you for a minute?
ARMORED DRIVER
(he looks at her federal picture ID, holding his hand on his
pistol)
What's this all about?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Just wanted to ask you who that large fellow was, what he signed
for.
ARMORED DRIVER
Oh, him, don't really know much about him sept he handles security for
some Russian bank, can't pronounce the name.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Have you ever had any problems with security, you know, suspicious
characters, that sort of thing?
ARMORED DRIVER
Never, not even a hint of it, and this place used to be hit all the
time by Gotti and his crew, never even had to draw my gun, closest I
come was just now, when you came up on me; they must have put the word
out, boys at Republican Bank, been sending tons of currency over there
regular. They're the only bank with a perfect record of no heists,
pretty lucky, huh?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
(pensive)
Hey, thanks very much, you've been helpful.
(she walks back upstairs, dialing her cellphone)
Dirk, its Sharon; look, I need a favor, on my way to Miami, could you
get me the names of the key people at Republican who handle
international transfers?
(listens)
Yes, I'm fine, look, just call me tomorrow on the cell, ok, gotta go?
Thanks.
FLASHBACK TO DECEMBER 1999:
EXT. ORNATE BUILDING IN TONEY MONACO FRENCH RIVIERA - DAY
Firemen and police are everywhere, fighting a roaring fire in a
penthouse......belonging to the founder of Republican Bank of New
York.
SHOT: SHOW MALE NURSE IN HANDCUFFS, BEING ESCORTED TO A POLICE VAN; HE
WILL BE THE 'USUAL SUSPECT', THE COPS NOT WANTING TO UPSET THE
REPUTATION OF THIS SAFE HAVEN FOR THE RICH AND FAMOUS---CASE CLOSED,
THE LONE NUT THEORY STRIKES AGAIN.
GENDARMERIE CAPTAIN
Look, you and your men seal off this whole area, and watch the crowd
with cameras and every man you have for suspicious characters, and
especially fucking cameras----confiscate them. This American nurse is
'our perpetrator', wannabe for favors from fat banker, blah, blah,
blah, you hear?
GENDARME
Oui, oui, capitan, certainamonte!
(turning to civilians approaching too close)
Hey, no access, it is forbidden!
ENGLISH REPORTER FOR BBC
See here, we're a goodly distance away, freedom of the press, dear
boy.......
(he is pushed)
GENDARME
Get back, do you hear! I have my orders from the Palace, you must
complain to them, nes pa?
ENGLISH REPORTER FOR BBC
Alright
(turning to his cameraman)
Get as much as you can from here
(just then a gurney reaches the street with a rotund body, badly
burned)
That must be Jaffra! Are you getting this!?
(he approaches an onlooker)
Anglais? Oui?
(gets a yes nod)
WITNESS
Horrible, just horrible; I saw everything......three men in hoods, very
beeg...they, how you say, rapel down ze side of ze building,
Uzis....just walking my dogs...
ENGLISH REPORTER FOR BBC
Did you see them go in?
WITNESS
Oui, everything; I hid behind the bushes, muzzling my dog, they no see
me.....they were good, knocking out cameras all over.
The police have spotted the remote interview and have given chase. The
witness picks up the dog and blends into crowd...
ENGLISH REPORTER FOR BBC
James, get moving, I'll try and stall them; meet me at the embassy, now
go!
SHOT: HE DEFTLY DITCHES THE FILM CANNISTER INTO A THICK BUSH
A young man, unseen in all the chaos, finds the tape cannister, walks
away with it.
CUT TO ONE HOUR LATER:
INT. MONAGASQUE POLICE HEADQUARTERS - DAY
BBC reporter Clyde Tollston is being interrogated rather aggressively;
his camera man has also been apprehended.
CLYDE TOLLSTON
Look, I am free press and don't have to put up with this nonsense: I
have already told you, I don't know who the woman was and don't have
the bloody film!
POLICE LIEUTENANT
Very well, monseuir, you will perhaps recover your memory in one of our
attractive holding cells----there is even a view of the Mediterranean,
perhaps you will see your accomplice in secreting the film, yes?
CLYDE TOLLSTON
See here, I want to call my producer and solicitor, you can't do
this!
POLICE LIEUTENANT
We are doing it, monseuir; you are in a sovereign principality whose
laws apply to you and your employer.
(he motions to the guard to remove them)
CUT TO PRESENT DAY:

EXT. MANSION ON FISHER ISLAND, MIAMI BEACH - DAY
Sharon Schwartz has arrived for her meeting, facilitated by the
go-between incarcerant Krotnik.
GUARD AT GATES
(he motions her to get out of her rented car)
Raise up your hands.
(he pats her down)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
May I take my taperecorder?
(he has confiscated her purse)
GUARD AT GATES
(holding up his hand, dialing phone)
........Da, Da!
(he hands her the taperecorder)
She is escorted to the front door by another thick-necked man; she is
nervous, feeling out of her depth. Her escort opens the door and
directs her to enter.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Ah, Ms. Schwartz, you are quite punctual! Tell me, how is my dear
friend Ilya?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
As well as can be expected, I suppose; haven't you been able to visit
him?
GRIGORI KINSKI
Sadly, no; the rules of your prisons are very strict----remind me of
Gulag in old country, not very fair.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Do you control any banks?
GRIGORI KINSKI
You waste no time; this is your reputation, yes? Me, I like this, no
'pussy-footing', mmmmm, as your Mr. George Wallace would say,
hmm.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
You still haven't answered my question.
GRIGORI KINSKI
I have not forgotten. I, and my associates, own many things, including
banks; only recently, we were offered acquisition of the entertainment
empire of Mr. Elvis Presley. We are global investors, much like your
entrepreneurs.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
You quote a man like Wallace, surely you must know he was a right wing
extremist......
(cut off)
GRIGORI KINSKI
A radical, yes, but more of a reactionary to your Eastern
Establishment's elitist status quo, one who gained much popular
support-----from your proletariat, so to say-----before certain forces,
shall we call them, made him a cripple compliments of always convenient
lone gunman, yes?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Mr. Kinski, you are clearly well-informed about America; tell me, what
do you know about Republican Bank and Mr. Edmond Jaffra?
Armed guards are patrolling the grounds through palladian windows and
are posted in large sitting room; Sharon POV keeps nervously checking
them out after each question for any programmed displeasure.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Bank in New York founded by the Jaffra family, ancient traders from
Middle East; it is my understanding that his bank does much business
with Russian banks.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Then you also know that it has been rumored that he became persona non
grata with your associates once he began to lose a lot of money thanks
to your country's looting by certain inside players; he tipped off the
Feds to some laundry dropped off at another NY bank.
GRIGORI KINSKI
You come across as an angry, frustrated official, but is it not
possible that your ire is directed toward the wrong actors in this
economic melodrama?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
I am angry, angry with the sloth and glacial rate of change in the law
so as to effectively encouraging corruption of the world's financial
system.
GRIGORI KINSKI
As thoughtful and informed as you are, perhaps you know or are willing
to learn the 'Why" of this state of affairs; have proposition for you,
Ms. Schwartz: come to work for me-----now, before you react emotionally
or, God forbid, patriotically, give this proposal some reflection: work
with me for one year, after which time if you have not come to realize
the uncompromising fact that there is not " a dime's worth of
difference" between government by greedy capitalists and communists,
you will be rewarded with a generous grant to write a book about your
findings, whatever they may be.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Wallace again; you're very sure of yourself, putting such a thing to
digger. Give it some thought and get back with you-----for now, why not
hit me with your best shot.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Sounds violent, not my style
(under his breath)
Any more....
for this task I will need nourishment; shall we lunch on the
terrace?
(he motions for her to precede him onto the elaborately awninged
veranda)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Okay, but tell me first how you came to be here, America.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Is long ugly tale: here is short version....
FLASHBACK TO EARLY 90'S:
INT. RUSSIAN MINISTRY OF INTERNAL SECURITY - DAY
Senior government types have become alarmed over Kinski's lethal
counteroffensive against Chechen gangs.....so much so that they have
called in the members of the Circle of Brothers, governing body of the
800 Vor v Vakonye's in Russia, to tame him and his
bombers/killers.
SHOT: SHOW SERIES OF STOCK-FOOTAGE MONTAGES OF STREET WAR BOMBINGS AND
KILLINGS, CHASES, BETWEEN VARIOUS GANGS, AND ESPECIALLY KINSKI'S
VENGEANCE UPON THE CHECHEN GANGS, WHO HAVE UP TO NOW DOMINATED THE
UNDERWORLD IN MOSCOW TO A DANGEROUS LEVEL.
MINISTER KRAPUTKIN
My friends, you must reign in your maddog------everyone is fed up with
the chaos he has wrought in rooting out the barbaric Chechen. This last
action was the worst, people are sleeping in the streets for fear of
being blown up in their apartments.

BRATSKY KRUG LEADER
Da, we must pull in the reins, although he has done well in wiping out
Stalin's curse.
MINISTER KRAPUTKIN
Well, Uncle Joe's not here to reap the whirlwind he set in motion by
dispossessing fucking Chechen from their worthless homeland in first
place. Send him abroad; look, the government is embarrassed since he
was released early from the gulag thanks to pressure you brought to
bear on us, now we are driving away foreign investments, 'easy' IMF
dollars and credits, even tourists &; CNN, growing in numbers every
day.
BRATSKY KRUG LEADER
We will send him to invade America!
(laughter)
MINISTER KRAPUTKIN
Ah, Yuri, you have made our day! Let us drink a toast: 'to the Invasion
of Amerika', by a feared plunderer, to be sure!! We will see to his
papers immediately---'no criminal record---model citizen'!!
(they click glasses)
CUT TO:
EXT. BACK TO KINSKI'S MIAMI TERRACE-DAY
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Alright, so you're here with a 'clean' slate, compliments of mother
country: how did you take over from scratch in 5 years?
GRIGORI KINSKI
World's oldest profession: politics!
CUT TO THAT EVENING:

INT. MEGA POLITICAL FUNDRAISER HOLLYWOOD - EVENING
The usual suspects are in attendance, with the noteworthy exception of
certain Slavic businessmen who have been invited by the Party
leadership to a much more private audience, despite certain 'warnings'
by the CIA, et. Al. The year is 1995.
MASTER OF CEREMONIES
(to the burgeoning noisy crowd in the dining ballroom)
Ladies and gentlemen, after dessert there will be a reception in the
Penthouse suite for those of you whose generosity was at the requisite
level.
(polite laughter from crowd)
Seriously, let me hasten to add that we certainly value our lesser
contributors, who are invited to attend this soiree, NEXT Year! Enjoy
your dessert while we listen attentively to our Guest Speaker, Edwin
Jaffra!
(applause)
EDWIN JAFFRA
Thank you, Mr. Chairman, thank you very kindly. I will be very
brief;
As you know, my family is an immigrant family, to whom this country has
been very kind. While immigration is a subject well-known among our
country's greatest assets, there is a new wave of that phenomemon which
has promised to make America even greater: our Russian Jewish friends
who, after constant oppression since the days of the Czars, have
enriched the work ethic, not to mention the brain power, of every walk
of life our democracy has to offer.
(applause)
I have had the privilege to do business with many of these
entrepreneurs, and have come to the conclusion that they are awfully
good for this nation. Today, many of them are here with us,
participating through their constitutional right of free speech in the
political process, something they could never do in their homeland,
where one Party held sway and favored only the chosen few. I ask you
all to join me in applauding what they represent for America and
freedom.
(tumultuous applause)
Stand up, that's right, let us see you. Thank you and God Bless
America!
(he leaves the podium, with assistance from a bodyguard)
MASTER OF CEREMONIES
Wasn't that wonderful, indeed, nearly as wonderful as the new record
amount we have raised tonight; and now, to some of you, see you
upstairs, and to all Goodnight!
CUT TO FEW MINUTES LATER:
INT. PENTHOUSE SUITE RECEPTION - NIGHT
The glitterati are pawing each other and especially the political
leadership.
YEVGENY LOUSHANSKY
.....yes, Senator, I wonder, for my daughter, new American, if picture
could be taken.....
(interrupted)
SENATOR STASIS
Certainly, certainly.....let's get your friend in here as well...
Secret Service men are spread around the room; two are huddled.
SECRET SERVICE ATTACHE
(under his breath to colleague)
Can you freakin believe this, that clown was the centerpiece of an
interagency warning list of 'no-nos', and here he is, schmoozing with
the folks who got the report!
SECRET SERVICE COLLEAGUE
Tell me about it: I can hear it now----'I'm shocked, shocked to learn
this-----why wasn't I informed? '
SECRET SERVICE ATTACHE
That's the one the press get when the cover gets blown-----money's got
the right vocabulary.
SECRET SERVICE COLLEAGUE
Whadda they say...'da'? Ain't any Bogies around anymore to teach these
cardboard cutout Louie the Prefects bout the right thing .....
They split up, noticing a commotion across the room.
VICE PRESIDENT KORN
I will say, you have made it possible for capitalism to have a healthy
baby over there, I'm very pleased with what I'm hearing from the latest
IMF delegation.
VADIM RABINSKI
You are too kind, Mr. Pres.....I mean Vice President, must be thinking
about next election, eh?
(chubby laughter)
Hope you will be running, my country needs men of your calibre who
understand the ways of the world, after end of Cold War.
VICE PRESIDENT KORN
Well, as long as the reports are as good as they are, don't see any
reason to stunt the 'baby's'growth.
VADIM RABINSKI
Please to have photo for my wife, she is big fan of yours.
(click, click, he has brought his own photographer)
SECRET SERVICE ATTACHE
(into his mouthpiece)
Jesus we gotta get these guys away from the Veep.....done time for
grand theft and who knows what all else....
(cut off)
SECRET SERVICE COLLEAGUE
No use: you hear what the CIA boys got back from him after their
umteenth report on these goons: he wrote 'Bullshit' across the cover.
Real joke is that these same guys are playing both parties for suckers,
heard from the 'elephants' crew about a big shindig in Dallas last
year.
SECRET SERVICE ATTACHE
Just glad I'm retired in two more years; maybe I'll write a book.
SECRET SERVICE COLLEAGUE
Careful, with both sides playing ...charity ball, you might have to
publish it yourself, whole media bunch are in bed with em, why not this
bunch of donkeys, too.
SECRET SERVICE ATTACHE
That case maybe I'll put in to work for one of these guys----can't beat
um, join.....
(he is interrupted)
SECRET SERVICE COLLEAGUE
Just don't put on your resume that you worked these events: Groucho
nailed it:'wouldn't wanna belong to a club would have someone like me
as a member'!
The soiree is winding down now that the poles have left with their
frustrated guards.
CUT TO PRESENT DAY:
INT. SHARON SCHWARTZ'S APARTMENT IN WASHINGTON - DAY
She is packing for a trip to New York, at the invitation of Mr.
Kinski.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
(to her cat Rhapsody)
What should I do, baby: you and I are the only two in this town who get
it. Don't sphinx out on me this time, really need some wisdom, purr me
an answer, hmmmm? Am I outta my depth here, should I be cautious, like
you? OK, silence is consent----Mrs. Sanders and her cat will take good
care of you, promise......
(phone rings)
SHARON SCHWARTZ (CONT'D)
Hal, how are you, been a while, at least since the Senate
hearin......
(she pauses at hearing some news)
What! You have got to be kidding me.....where did you get it!?
AP REPORTER HAL LEGENDE
Not gonna believe this: kid walks into our French bureau satellite
office in Monaco, says he found a video cannister in the shrubbery near
that fire at Jaffra's place back in 12/99; too young to understand what
was going on then, he just put it in his closet and forgot about it;
digs it up last week, figures we would know what to do with it, what
with BBC written on it; course our guy knew what was up, that the BBC
had been on the scene.....gave him a hundred bucks as a reward.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Jesus; what's on it??
AP REPORTER HAL LEGENDE (O.S.)
Seems they got this interview, with who we don't know, somebody walkin
her dog early and sees these hooded guys going into Jaffra's
place!
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Can I see it?
AP REPORTER HAL LEGENDE
Why I called, heard you quit in a pique, figured you are the right
former Fed to scoop it.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Wait till I tell you just who I'm gonna see tonight. Be there in twenty
minutes...and, thanks, Hal.
CUT TO ONE HOUR LATER:
INT. ASSOCIATED PRESS OFFICES CONFERENCE ROOM - DAY
Having just viewed the videotape twice with Hal, and no one else, they
are brainstorming about what to do next.
SHOT: SHOW TAPE IN BACKGROUND ACROSS FROM THEM, NOW FACING EACH OTHER,
TAPE IS FROZEN ON KID HANDING OVER TAPE CASSETTE, SCREEN FACING
AUDIENCE.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Have you gone public with this yet?
AP REPORTER HAL LEGENDE
No, but pressure's on; gotta do something with it, once we have solid
confirmation. Our President is due back in a few days, he'll make the
call on the tape itself, but the story will be out first.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Well, you really don't have confirmation, do you? I mean, you don't
know who this woman is, right?
AP REPORTER HAL LEGENDE
Look, he or she's the credible type: older, dog lover and don't forget
the paranoia in that little principality of the Rainiers, I mean
Grimaldis; no, we gotta at least let it out over the wires.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Yeah, but do you have to say you have a tape? Got a reason: remember I
told you I was meeting someone interesting tonight? Well, his name is
Grigori Kinski....
(cut off)
AP REPORTER HAL LEGENDE
What is this, they couldn't get Bronson for Death Wish V? YOu have any
idea who he is? CHrist!
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Sure, Charlie Bronson, huge star,really the first physical hunk......of
course I know who he is, that's why I'm going after it. He offered me a
job in Miami last week; told him I would think about it, that I have
certain conditions, not to mention a potential trump card, now. LOok,
give me till Friday, three days, to signal you it's cool to release the
story.
AP REPORTER HAL LEGENDE
That is it, though, regardless of whether I hear from you, we go
public; YOu gonna be alright?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
No problem; look, this guy sees me as his/their chance on the road to
real legitimacy, what they really want, hell, that's what Lansky and
his generation wanted; no, I may be safer with him than my former
government employer ,if you catch my drift.
AP REPORTER HAL LEGENDE
Hey, down with that last comment: the Feds are all looking the other
way, figuring trickle down is gospel.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
I see a win/win here if I handle this thing right... with your help.
Can't you see it: on the one hand we have the U.S. leadership, outside
of law enforcement of course, saying, 'not to worry: they're new
capitalists'----give me a break! And on the other hand it's: 'forget
about it, have some Wodka, darling, we are like your gangsters of the
early time of 30's &; 40's, kind of like Robin &; the 7 Hoods,
everybody knows what we really want is to be legitimate, invest in
companies, create jobs'. Yes, few people may get hurt, even killed,
hey, everybody dies', all for good cause'. SOmewhere between those two
poles is the truth, and I want to find it.
AP REPORTER HAL LEGENDE
Alright, you got it, although the Pulitzer Prize is our best
friend.
(smiling)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Thanks, Hal; hey, got my vote. I'll even give you shared authorship on
my book, deal?
(she busses him on the cheek)
Wish me luck!
(she leaves)
AP REPORTER HAL LEGENDE
You may need more than luck.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
No worries, I've got it!
(she accentuates her cleavage)
FADE OUT.
INT. RUSSIAN NIGHT SPOT BROOKLYN U.S.A.-NIGHT
Sharon has been feted at the Rasputin, noted thug hangout; Taylor Dane
is singing in the background.
THICK-NECKED MEN ARE EVERYWHERE, WITH GUNS IN PLAIN VIEW, BULGING IN
THEIR LEATHER JACKETS. AS THEY ENTER PRIVATE BOOTH AREA,SHARON NOTICES
ONE BODYGUARD IS WEARING HIS OLYMPIC GOLD MEDAL FOR THE PENTATHOLON
PROUDLY.
GRIGORI KINSKI
So, my dear, how do you feel about Borscht?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Sort of like the poor man's Gaspacho.
GRIGORI KINSKI
(belly laugh)
I like you, really I do. You sure no Russians on other side of family,
also?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Never can tell, understand the Cossacks really got around on the first
date. Hey, what's with the Olympian?
GRIGORI KINSKI
Oh, him, many Russian heroes on payroll, hard times, yes? Actually,
that one he IS a Cossack, want to meet?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Maybe much later; listen,
We need to talk, Mr. Kinski.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Hey, have been in America long enough to know that's no good from
woman.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
It depends; is there somewhere quiet?
GRIGORI KINSKI
Of course, my limousine, bullet and sound proof!
CUT TO FEW MINUTES LATER:
INT. STRETCH LIMO PROM QUEEN DECOR - NIGHT
Cruising across the Brooklyn Bridge, Sharon &; Grigori are alone,
save the driver who is blocked out by tinted glass; music is playing
enough to cloud 'bugging'.
GRIGORI KINSKI
So, what shall we talk about?
(he is grinning)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
I have thought about your offer and, since I also like you personally,
I have decided, with prominent conditions, to.....
GRIGORI KINSKI
Accept!
(he is still grinning)
Forgive me, but someone who loves truth cannot afford to say
no......don't want to wake up in 'x' number of years, asking 'what
if'......I am warm?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Very warm, but for more complex reasons.
GRIGORI KINSKI
What is more complex, and yet simple, than the truth? No, allow me: you
have roughly equal contempt for what you see as both sides; trouble is,
you somehow feel as if scales must tip, ever so slightly, in one
direction or the other, so, you will strap in and see where you
land.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Ok, no more sparring; the real deal, fifteen rounds and the loser
pays.
GRIGORI KINSKI
But you are supposed to be referee, correct?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Da!
(blushing)
Neutral as they come, just want the facts.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Regular Jack Webb, yes?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
As such, I have a bit of evidence I feel I should share with you,
unsure of who is most damnable----interested?
GRIGORI KINSKI
All ears, as you say.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Involves the Jaffra death; sources have persuaded me that he was
murdered.....
GRIGORI KINSKI
Reliable sources?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Very; Grigori, may I call you.....
GRIGORI KINSKI
I insist. PLease to continue, Sharon.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Sharon....right; let's just say that hooded pros entered and did him
in, masking their hit with a fire now attributed to a male nurse!
GRIGORI KINSKI
I know something about this; you see, sometimes matters get out of hand
and treachery must be addressed.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
You're admitting to it?
GRIGORI KINSKI
You are too smart to suggest this; fact is, Kennedy murder still
unsolved, even though my Italian competitors have been scapegoated, no
one knows or may ever know, thanks to Mr. Hoover of the Federal Bureau
of Instigation.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
I am reminded of how well-informed you are.
GRIGORI KINSKI
My point exactly; Americans assume they live in vacuum----not so: whole
world has been watching, especially since TV satellites,your danse
macabre is well known to world, elite inside group did not like sane
policies toward Soviets, so he died, in front of wife, really bad
taste.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Touche'; look, you won't find me defending evil of any nationality. All
I seek is......
(cut off)
GRIGORI KINSKI
And you shall have it; please to remember, in my native country, no
illusions; no, brutal truth: you are either in or out; we were out, for
longest time, sometimes so far out as to be in Siberia, you know of
this place?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Affirmative; and yes, the American Dream can be a thinly veiled
nightmare, at least to those who remember how to think for
themselves.
GRIGORI KINSKI
You mean you are not Dan Rather fan?
(chuckling)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
No, can't say that I am terribly fond of journalism, masquerading as
the Fourth Estate in the employ of the bloody CIA; let's cut to the
motorized pursuit, Grigori------the scales of justice, an alien concept
to ANY elite, East or West, are ok by me.
GRIGORI KINSKI
(reaching for Cognac)
Propose a toast: to the Truth, wherever scales find it!
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Prost!
(raising her glass)
GRIGORI KINSKI
Ah, to the truth! NOw, may I show you more of Russian nightlife?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
My hotel is fine for now; when do I start?
GRIGORI KINSKI
You already have started; come to LA with me tomorrow, see how
economics really works, ok?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
When? I'm not really packed for another trip.....
(playing along, to see if it's real)
GRIGORI KINSKI
Look for limo at 10am, ok? And not to worry over wardrobe, you have
large allowance and shopping is good there, no?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Ok, I mean Da.
She exits the limo; Kinski yells to driver.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Mikhail, 'cut ot motorized chasing'!
(laughing)
Love America....
CUT TO:
INT. FBI SURVEILLANCE VAN TAILING LIMO - NIGHT
Two SACs are replaying their tapes; are reporting in.
FIBBIE ONE
You sure she's not a plant, working for us?
FIBBIE TWO
Negatory, these guys are rather xenophobic.....
(cut off)
FIBBIE ONE
Say what?
FIBBIE TWO
They don't like strangers, especially non-Russians who were part of the
Feds not long ago; no, she's being played bigtime.
(into communications device)
Subject has returned to hotel; unable to get reliable recordings at all
sites: apparently KGB technology, along with some Israeli gear we
haven't seen before, is jamming us; recommend Plan B, out.
FIBBIE ONE
Guess we're back to eyeball techniques----you want the morning
shift?
FIBBIE TWO
Not necessary, got a man 'on staff' at the night desk; let's pack it
in.
CUT TO:
INT. ASSOCIATED PRESS OFFICES CONFERENCE ROOM - DAY
The wire story has run, Sharon having greenlighted it as planned; the
brass are debating what to do with a new tape----this one showing the
hooded figures in action for five seconds before they knocked out the
cameras.
This more stunning tape has been sent to them anonymously. It is from a
five second snippet of a Monaco security camera; it is playing in a
continuous loop behind them, clearly seen by audience.
JAMES HELMSLEY
Ok, command decision time; recommendations?
HAL LEGENDE
Its a no-brainer, sir: we make copies, then put it out to all the
networks on our sharenet----basically, all of them, including BBC,
least we can do.
SHEILA ARMSTRONG
Don't we have an obligation to give BBC a heads up here?
HAL LEGENDE
Suppose you're right, but we must keep copies.
JAMES HELMSLEY
Alright, here's the drill: Dirk, get on to the BBC here in town, don't
want any phone calls, too hot; offer them first run rights, followed by
the whole gang within 24 hours. Sheila, get technical to
copy......
(cut off)
HAL LEGENDE
Already done, sir. Five copies, one is already in the safe.
JAMES HELMSLEY
Suppose you've already got them working on pixel analysis, trying to ID
the perps?
HAL LEGENDE
No sir, thought we should bring in the top people, got a couple of
names, ex-Company types.
JAMES HELMSLEY
Like the idea, but no former Feds; we've all been at this too long for
surprises in what could be a very big story, ramifications could be
360. I want those guys from NASA, you know, the face on Mars duo, got
credentials and no law enforcement/policy agenda, or pension and,
they've got guts.
HAL LEGENDE
On it; who goes to the BBC?
JAMES HELMSLEY
Let's courier it, business as usual; I suspect we may have snoops
already prowling courtesy of the Keystone cops of Monaco-----sure
they've reached out by the book to Interpol,the Israelis, CIA, et.al.
Sheila, I want one copy sent Brinks to the bank vault.
SHEILA ARMSTRONG
Get on it right away. Shouldn't we also check with our office that got
the tape originally, see what's happening locally?
JAMES HELMSLEY
Too dangerous; the only word we have is that this tape just appeared in
the mail slot, no note, no clue as to who dropped it; not looking this
gift horse in the mouth, unless our analysis shows its been edited or
is otherwise phony. I am, however, personally looking into just how we
got so lucky: the theory that our donor just doesn't trust the
corporate media can't explain everything-----putting my journalist hat
on again, now I know what our guys go through, kind of exhilirating!
Keep me informed real time, that's it.
CUT TO TWO WEEKS LATER:
INT. CIA HEADQUARTERS LANGLEY VIRGINIA - DAY
The Assistant Director for Covert Operations is being briefed on the
'tape(s)' stories. Laptop slides are being projected onto a screen
behind them, automatically advancing, showing the firefighters, and
crowd scene chaos in Monte Carlo.
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR TOLMEY
What have we got?
SENIOR AGENT JILL ASTRALL
According to our sources in Monaco, the tapes are fakes, both of them;
as to the alleged clip of hooded assailants, they tell me that the
cameras in question were out of service at the time in question.
DEPUTY TO ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
Don't buy what they told you; smell a large rodent, remember, the frogs
are basically in charge there, especially in international matters, big
time left leaners.
SENIOR AGENT FRANK MANCUSO
It gets worse: the word on the eyewitness, so-called, is that, after
exhaustive record search of all permanent and seasonal residents, no
match for the BBC description, which itself was not gender specific,
wearing a hat, that's it; in addition, he/she was said to have been
walking a dog.
DEPUTY TO ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
What about tourists?
SENIOR AGENT FRANK MANCUSO
Negative at all hotels,none of which allow pets; must be kenneled, and
the kennels don't open as early as the time in question.
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR TOLMEY
Alright, I need hard info asap; bring it back to me, highest priority;
keep me informed every 24, that's all.
(they leave him as he speaks into his intercom)
Janis, get me Wally, now.
WALLACE THORNBY
You rang chief, I'm right in the middle of....
(cut off)
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR TOLMEY
Drop that, will you Wally, got a high priority task for you: need
wiretaps on a certain former Fed and one or more media outlets.
WALLACE THORNBY
Oh, thought you might have wanted a triple-threat beatification miracle
package; have you lost your mind? The media thing, short of famous last
words like 'war-footing national security', that's a career
ender.
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR TOLMEY
May well be a matter of highest national security: take a stroll around
the campus with me, won't you, got something to share with
you.....
(walking to elevator to exit building)
FADE TO BLACK.
INT. U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE MANHATTAN - DAY
It is the next day; The titular head of the office and his chief deputy
are conferring about the case they have been building based on leads
from Edwin Jaffra.
DEPUTY NEAL SORENSTEIN
Looks like the grand jury is set for a week from now, my witnesses
check out with the Jaffra information about dirty banks in New
York.
U.S. ATTORNEY FRED SWANSON
Neal, that's excellent; look, just heard from DC and, uh, those two
dreaded words have come up in connection with this case: I think you
know they're not four letter or 'Yom Kippur'.....
(cut off)
DEPUTY NEAL SORENSTEIN
Let me guess, 'national security', Jesus, Fred, that's such crap.
U.S. ATTORNEY FRED SWANSON
Tend to agree, and am pushing to go ahead with a sealed up grand jury
proceeding....
(cut off)
DEPUTY NEAL SORENSTEIN
Sure, with the media chilling my witnesses with those magic words, we
can forget it.
U.S. ATTORNEY FRED SWANSON
Let's just delay for awhile; going down there tomorrow to get
briefed.
DEPUTY NEAL SORENSTEIN
Private practice is sure looking better and better----at least when you
want to delay, it's at $400+ an hour.
U.S. ATTORNEY FRED SWANSON
Trust me, I'll get to the bottom of it.
(deputy leaves)
Swanson gets up, closes and locks his door, picks up his secure red
phone.
CUT TO:

INT. SHARON SCHWARTZ'S APARTMENT IN WASHINGTON - EVENING
Sharon has just gotten back from California; she dials the phone,
returning his message.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Hi, Dirk, it's me, your au courant Mahta Hari, got a minute?
DIRK GENTLEY
Can you meet me for a drink, need to see you?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Well, kinda tired, gotta get Rhapsody, what's the rush?
DIRK GENTLEY
Just meet me in 30 minutes, the place on U Street, you know the
one.
(he hangs up quickly)
CUT TO ONE HOUR LATER:
INT. TRENDY BAR IN TRANSITIONAL AREA OF D.C. - LATER
Dirk is joined by Sharon in a mostly African American middle class bar
&; grill; Dirk knows they are safe from surveillance here.
In background, crowd noise topped with funky rap music, heavy
beat.
DIRK GENTLEY
(he waves to her from the very back of the place)
Thanks for coming, had to hang up; you're phones are tapped, according
to my source at the FBI.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Had me really worried, thought the IRS was after you.
DIRK GENTLEY
Hey, they might be if they catch me with you; I figured the pale Fibbie
standard issue agent would really stand out in here, think we're
cool.
Just then two beautifully dressed AAs saunter to the bar, one of them
is a defense attorney Dirk knows.
YOLANDA FRITZ
Hello, Dirk, how's the government grind----when are you going private,
huh?
DIRK GENTLEY
Maybe sooner than later, Sam is getting hard to take.
YOLANDA FRITZ
Be sure and give us a head's up when you do.
(she turns back to her friend)

SHARON SCHWARTZ
'They'....... you're scaring me! I'M not surprised, those bastards, now
that I'm fraternizing with the enemy.
DIRK GENTLEY
Yeah, what the hell have you been up to, haven't spoken to you since
that Republican request.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
I've taken a job with Grigori Kinski......
DIRK GENTLEY
The dark prince, have you lost what's left of your mind?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Hey, remember our last conversation on this general topic in my office:
there's just no where to go on 'your' side of the fence; I have
unrestricted access to the inner sancta.....
(cut off)
DIRK GENTLEY
Hello, you sound like an adolescent; they're using you, can't you
see?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Of course they are, but it cuts both ways: look, I'm safer now than
ever with my high profile former Fed status, I'm on everybody's
radar.
(waitress brings some snacks and drinks ordered by Dirk)
IF harm came to me the shitstorm would be invited at a time when the
crime cartel I'm now close to, so to speak, craves greater legitimacy.
I'm writing a thorough treatment of what's what, who's who; Aside from
the Pulitzer, it's a chance to set the record straight for the public,
the real victims........
(cut off)
DIRK GENTLEY
Now you're a journalist? What if the Feds decide to subpoena you and
pump you for information, you think you can resist that?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
As long as I'm writing a book, and I am, and I've got the inside track
on a mainstream publishing deal last week, courtesy of Kinski and
company. ANd the Pulitzer is for someone else, friend of mine at
AP.
DIRK GENTLEY
Ok, so you've got some case law on your side, not at all clear the Feds
can't decide to test it, then wire the ruling, as in double
entendre'.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Even the FBI isn't that stupid, they'd have Peter Zenger two, uh, uh,
First Amendment Free Press coffers would open to bury them politically
before they got started.
DIRK GENTLEY
Let's say you're right, nobody remembers just who the Hell Zenger
is----aren't you playing with fire, my sources at FBI tell me the AP
has got some incredible tapes.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Tapes? GUess I've been away too long, haven't followed the news, was
that plural, tapes?
DIRK GENTLEY
Yes, one eyewitness interview by the BBC and one short clip of the
perpetrators actually entering the Jaffra place!
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Jesus, hadn't heard about that one, better get hold of my friend at
AP.
DIRK GENTLEY
Oh, got the word from Hal personally, he didn't trust your new
friends;the media don't know about the second perp tape yet, otherwise
you couldn't have missed it.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Well, the phone is out, gotta get over there tomorrow first
thing.
DIRK GENTLEY
Look, just promise you'll be careful, I care about you, you know.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
(seeing the deep interest in his eyes)
I think maybe we should finish our drinks........
FADE OUT.
INT. DIRK GENTLEY'S APARTMENT - LATER
Sharon &; Dirk are getting acquainted, physically. They are making
love passionately, a sultry side of the disciplined crusader.
DIRK GENTLEY
(breathlessly)
I thought we'd never get together in this much more interesting
way!
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Tell me about it..... in body language!
CUT TO FEW MINUTES LATER:
INT. DIRK'S BED - MOMENTS LATER
Dirk has handed Sharon a handsomely wrapped smallish package.
DIRK GENTLEY
Open it.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Kind of heavyish, you know I hate conspicuous jewelry.....
(cut off)
DIRK GENTLEY
Humor me.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
(she opens it briskly)
Got any bullets, want to try it on you!
(it's a small Berreta pistol)
DIRK GENTLEY
'Lightweight, fits nicely into a lady's handbag...'; Dr. No, Bond,
James......
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Men! Carrying this will only raise suspicion, can't you see?
DIRK GENTLEY
Well, maybe you &; 'Q' are right:'no real stopping power', jam
easily: look, just concerned for your safety with your new
associates.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Sweet thought, really, and I do appreciate your concerns, especially,
but your best offer of protection is to use your sources to keep me
informed of the Feds moves.
DIRK GENTLEY
You know I will if I can, if they haven't already been
compromised.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Speaking of compromise, why don't you show me that bodyslam maneuver
again,.....just for self-defense.
(they embrace)
FADE OUT.
INT. DIRK GENTLEY'S OFFICE ON CAPITOL HILL - DAY
Two FBI agents have shown up unannounced looking for Dirk; his is a
semi-private bull pen of an office, and the office is full of
interruptions, no privacy. Phones ringing in background, cross-talk.
The Fibbies intend to embarrass him.
FBI AGENT #1
Mr. Gentley, would it be possible to have a word with you?
(flashing credentials ostentatiously)
DIRK GENTLEY
(on the phone)
Yes, I'll get back to you later.
(into the phone)
What's this about?
FBI AGENT #2
May we speak candidly here?
DIRK GENTLEY
Hey, it's a public building; what is this all about?
FBI AGENT #2
Concerns Ms. Sharon Schwartz; we understand that you may have a
relationship with her.
DIRK GENTLEY
Even if I did, why would that be the Gestapo's business?
(pissed)
FBI AGENT #1
What my partner means is you know her well; what we need to know is are
you aware of her current employment, that sort of thing.
DIRK GENTLEY
You know she has left government; I believe she is doing freelance
consulting work, with whom is not something I'm very current on. Look,
is she in some kind of difficulty?
FBI AGENT #1
Maybe, that's really what concerns us; here's my card, if you hear from
her, we'd appreciate a call.
DIRK GENTLEY
Hey, I'm sure you fellows don't need my help finding anyone: tell you
what I will do though, I'll call an attorney friend of mine who'll be
interested in your interest, as he represents her----I'll give him your
card.
(he is firmly glaring at the two men, bluffing)
FBI AGENT #1
Well, I think we're through here, appreciate your time. Oh, by the way,
your friend at the Bureau's been reassigned out West somewhere, I
believe, have a nice day.
(they leave)
DIRK GENTLEY
(picking up the phone)
Sharon, call me as soon as you get this message, whatever the hour;
please take care.
CUT TO:

INT. ASSOCIATED PRESS OFFICES - MORNING
Sharon has shown up having taken a circuitous route via tax and subway
to shake any observers.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Is Hal in?
RECEPTIONIST
Why, no, I haven't seen him, let me make sure....
(she buzzes Sheila)
Sheila, seen Hal? ALright, thanks.
Not here.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Could you try him at home, it's important.
RECEPTIONIST
Sure, I'll connect it to the guest phone over there.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
(she picks up the extension to ringing)
No answer; guess I'll try his cell, could you?
RECEPTIONIST
Certainly.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
(only voicemail)
That's odd, would you tell him Sharon came by, thanks.
(she leaves)
CUT TO:
INT. OLD-FASHIONED PHONE BOOTH IN LOBBY OF BUILDING - MOMENTS
LATER
Sharon has reached out to Kinski, in Miami. She spots an obvious tail
in the lobby.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Hello, this is Sharon, could you put me through to Grigori?
Thanks.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Ah, how nice, thought you were taking couple weeks off to organize your
personals.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
I'm concerned about a friend at AP, can't reach him; can you find out
if your people have him?
GRIGORI KINSKI
Is this the fellow who has the tape?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
You're well-informed......how did you know?
GRIGORI KINSKI
All over TV; how much you want to bet your government has him? LOok,
let me make some calls, get back to you by encrypted cell for incoming
calls gave you; sit tight, will find him, put lawyers on it.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Thanks.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Hey, 'From Russia, with very much Love', yes?!
(polite laughter)
Sharon leaves the building and goes to her apartment; she is aware of
being followed.
CUT TO:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS BUILDING DIRECTOR'S SUITE - DAY
The Deputy Director himself is questioning Hal Legende about the
tapes.
DEPUTY DIRECTOR SMALES
Now Mr. Legende, Hal, we know all about the kid, how the tapes were
sent on to you by your Monaco office-----what we don't know is how
whoever it was who did so got the security camera tape to you.
HAL LEGENDE
Look, I already told your agents that we don't know either; the tape
was through our mail slot, we don't know when, by whom or anything
else; now I have done my patriotic duty, as you termed it, but I am no
fool and demand to be released immediately.
DEPUTY DIRECTOR SMALES
Very well, Hal, we don't doubt you, we are simply attempting to
determine whether some elaborate hoax or other more sinister strategy
is in play, you understand our position: the Russians, based on what we
have told you, had every reason to have wanted Jaffra dead, we just
want to know the same 5 w's you want.
HAL LEGENDE
Be sure and call you if I know more.......... through my lawyers. And
as for the tapes, if you want those you're gonna have to move heaven
and earth and by then they'll be shown on every network on the
planet----isn't that called mooting you out?!
(he rises to leave)
DEPUTY DIRECTOR SMALES
You are aware, are you not, that with today's technology, tapes can be
virtually manufactured to show almost anything.
HAL LEGENDE
That's what analysts are for, and we've got the best; we'll let you
know what we find----along with the rest of the world. GOod day,
gentlemen.
(he leaves with an escort)
DEPUTY DIRECTOR SMALES
Well, what does he know?
AGENT SORBISON
My guess is nothing more than what he said; in any event, we need to
get with the Company boys before this thing gets legs and we can't
contain it.
DEPUTY DIRECTOR SMALES
You think he knows that the CIA may have been active in the vicinity at
the time?
AGENT SORBISON
One way to find out.
DEPUTY DIRECTOR SMALES
Alright, get the court order and get the bugs active pronto, including
his office.
AGENT SORBISON
Sir, if this gets out.....
(cut off)
DEPUTY DIRECTOR SMALES
What choice have we got? No, I suspect that bitch Schwartz is in deep
with this and I intend to find out; we can then lay it at her feet as a
Russki operative, witting or otherwise, the bugs, all of it. I want
compromising photos, hard core porno, send her the 'don't fuck with us'
signal. And, make sure that the night security people at his building
notice a Russian-accented maintenance man signing in, got it?
AGENT SORBISON
Done.
DEPUTY DIRECTOR SMALES
One more thing, set up a conference in New York, with the network
chiefs, so we can nip this thing in the bud.
CUT TO:
INT. NEW YORK FBI OFFICES CONFERENCE - DAY
The Director has come to town to personally orchestrate damage
control.
FBI DIRECTOR
Ah, thank you all for coming......

FLASHBACK TO ONE WEEK AGO:
INT. BOUTIQUE PUBLISHING HOUSE IN SAN FRANSCISCO - DAY
It is the site of another legitimate investment for Kinski and company:
this time he has bought a reputable publisher.
GRIGORI KINSKI
(walking with Sharon into lobby of office building)
Is someone want you to meet, very nice fellow, very educated.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Which front company is this?
GRIGORI KINSKI
That hurts, Sharon; really, good investment, you especially will
appreciate, huh?
They enter the executive offices.
GRIGORI KINSKI (cont'd)
(addressing receptionist, who is on the phone)
Please to see Mr. Fortenhauser.
RECEPTIONIST
"Forte' House"....
(to Grigori)
Whom shall I say is calling?
GRIGORI KINSKI
Tell him Gregory.
RECEPTIONIST
(she buzzes)
Please, go right in!
GRIGORI KINSKI
(to Sharon as they walk)
You like new first name?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Kinda like Krushchev, without the shoe and the bad suit.
HENRY FORTENHAUSER
Greg, what a nice surprise!
GRIGORI KINSKI
Introduce my new associate, Ms. Sharon Schwartz, she is biographer, so
to say.
HENRY FORTENHAUSER
Enchante'; please, be seated; beverage, anyone?
GRIGORI KINSKI
Espresso, if you have; Sharon?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Oh, no, quite wide awake as it is.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Perhaps you would be kind enough as to describe our deal to
Sharon.
HENRY FORTENHAUSER
Certainly; our house is mid-sized, catering mostly to a more
sophisticated audience.....
(he is interrupted)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Begging you pardon, but I am very familiar with your history, very
impressive, actually.
The espresso is brought in.
HENRY FORTENHAUSER
And now I am impressed; tell me, who has been your publisher?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Mostly the Government Printing Office in Washington; but I'm ready to
make a change.
HENRY FORTENHAUSER
Oh, I see, consulting work, that sort of thing; well, we are not too
far afield from that metiere with about 60\% of our authors doing
cutting edge nonfiction on a whole range of arcana. At any rate,
Gregory here has made a passive investment, the principal feature of
which is he wants it treated as a blind investment, with no editorial
control whatsoever; we just couldn't say no.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
I can imagine; allow me to inquire as to your screening process for
authors as well as investors, just curious?
HENRY FORTENHAUSER
Oh, very thorough, including, of course, criminal history,that sort of
thing-----why, do you have in mind another investor?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
No, no, just like to do background on any publisher I may work with,
that sort of thing.
HENRY FORTENHAUSER
Quite, quite. Allow me to inquire as to your anticipated manuscript
schedule, that is, should we be interested.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
I forsee a rough draft ready in perhaps 9 months or so, should you be
interested, that is.
(she smiles sardonically)
HENRY FORTENHAUSER
Well, I hope that you will excuse me, but I must end our visit, running
behind for an editorial board meeting upstairs.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Not at all, good of you to see us without appointment, only wanted you
two to meet.
(they rise to leave)
Henry rises, waves goodbye as he answers the phone.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
No criminal history, eh....
GRIGORI KINSKI
You were in government; who keeps records----never heard of influence
peddling?
FADE TO PRESENT DAY:
INT. PHOTOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS LABORATORY RURAL VIRGINIA - DAY
The former NASA analysts are working on the short clip from Monaco that
AP has asked them to process.
DR. EISENSTADT
What do you make of it?
DR. TEAGUE
Interesting, looks like some sort of artifact, maybe an
armpatch......
(he squints without his glasses)
Where are we on enhancement?
DR. EISENSTADT
About 75\%; let's try 85\%.
DR. TEAGUE
Wow! Are you seeing this?
DR. EISENSTADT
Not necessarily believing it.....go to 100\%, forget about resolution,
I want overall architecture.
DR. TEAGUE
There, 100\%.......
DR. EISENSTADT
100\% unbelievable! Let's do the backup protocol now, clean it up
later.
DR. TEAGUE
I'll get hold of Helmsley at AP...
(cut off)
DR. EISENSTADT
No good, remember security concerns.
DR. TEAGUE
That's why he gave us the secure cell phone.
DR. EISENSTADT
This is too sensitive to risk a glitch; let's use the NASA
protocol.
DR. TEAGUE
Excellent thinking, problem is perhaps no one will be able to decrypt
it.
DR. EISENSTADT
Have to take that risk; and then there are our personal copies, vaulted
with the crematorium, pretty secure with the dead!
(laughing)
DR. TEAGUE
Yeah, dead men may tell no tales, but let's make sure we're don't fit
that description!
FADE OUT.
INT. CIA HEADQUARTERS LANGLEY VIRGINIA - NIGHT
The Assistant Director, and the Senior Agents are briefing the
Director, called in from a Middle East trip.
All the major cable broadcasts are doing overkill coverage on the
Jaffra death nonstop; several sets are showing this in the
background.
DIRECTOR OSWALD
And you're telling me these are the same two creeps who crapped all
over NASA on that Martian face thing?
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR TOLMEY
Precisely; really caused bocoup grief back in the eighties, through
today really, there's a whole cult of belief out there for whatever
they do.
SENIOR AGENT FRANK MANCUSO
Yes, but it's still fringe dynamics; Sir, this is great news,
considering....
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR TOLMEY
I still don't like it; the media, corporate owned or not, are goddam
whores, flip you in a heartbeat; after the election flap, nobody half
believes them anyway, but we're between a rock and a.....
DIRECTOR OSWALD
Spare me the fucking cliches, Harold; look, the hard data are as
follows: we know they've found something artifactual, man-made thanks
to your Big Ears people; we don't know what or who it may point to; AP
obviously thought this through, picking these guys makes them
untouchable because of the boomerang if they go away: can't ya hear it,
NASA &; Co. took em out', Christ!
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR TOLMEY
I think we can count on our media people to debunk and otherwise chill
any hope of this thing being swallowed as hard science: you know, get
em to run several specials on cyberfraud techniques, including video
manipulation, same shit we used with the UFO bullshit.
DIRECTOR OSWALD
I like it; alright, get on with the disinfo campaign, high gear, but
wrap this video fraud thing in a larger package, like you said, run it
on 'Identity Theft', all that consumer-driven crap all those John Qs
out there groove on, public service really. Then, when they go public,
we'll remain calm and coolly dismiss it as fringe.
SENIOR AGENT FRANK MANCUSO
Sir, way I hear it, FBI's already out front on that....
(cut off)
DIRECTOR OSWALD
Did I hear you right; nice of them to inform us----remind me to fuck
them over later on another deal; meantime, let them take the lead, and
the heat!
SENIOR AGENT FRANK MANCUSO
Got a strong file on them from the Bureau, want to use it?
DIRECTOR OSWALD
Let's hold it in reserve. That it?
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR TOLMEY
There's this so-called eyewitness thing, on BBC tape, AP has it; we're
comfortable she or he, not sure, was a Russian plant; can't be found in
Monaco's detailed resident records.
DIRECTOR OSWALD
Don't forget the Zapruder strategy: the original, uncopied, was sealed
up tight at the Life headquarters, that was the public story; Hell,
even that kook Garrison couldn't get at it for his kangaroo trial of
Clay Shaw. Now, a reverse spin on that deal could help call into
question the veracity of their damn tape. Have we exhausted all
options------could be a tourist; have we run that angle down?
SENIOR AGENT FRANK MANCUSO
Yessir, and, well, nothing; there is a remote possiblity that he/she
was staying with a local but.....
DIRECTOR OSWALD
I smell assumptions! Godammit, Frank, no half-assed shit, please, this
is too big; get onto our people in Monaco, word is that we would
greatly appreciate the Prince doing all he can, blah, blah, blah....big
aid in our fight against the Russian Mafiya disturbing his quiet little
enclave of the rich, got it!!
(storms out)
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR TOLMEY
Get us reports every 12 hours, round the clock, ok?
SENIOR AGENT FRANK MANCUSO
Yessir!
CUT TO:
INT. SHARON SCHWARTZ'S HOTEL IN MIAMI - EVENING
Sharon has left Washington as planned; it is not a good place for her
to be these days. Her cell phone rings.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Hello?
GRIGORI KINSKI
Welcome to Sunshine State! I must be psychic, guess where your AP
friend was this morning?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Score one for the KGB's methods; by the way, your friend in Frisco
checks out, I'm persuaded.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Ye of little faith----from the Bible, even Russian Orthodox. You have
seen CNN recently?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
You mean the Communist News Network? Caught a bit about these tapes,
upcoming series on Cyberfraud, videotampering. Why?
GRIGORI KINSKI
Just a page from KGB manual, mis/disinformation, compliments of
American private media----I love this country, everything money!
(laughing)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
You don't seem too concerned.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Why should I be, CIA/FBI doing heavy lifting, result will be everyone
off the hook, just like Dallas--how you say, 'plausible deniability',
learned from American Mafia.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Don't you mean American Defense Department......
(cut off)
GRIGORI KINSKI
What's the difference? Really, who was FBI/CIA best friend in Cuba?
Ever hear of JFK, even with Zapruder film, these guys succeed, not even
good! Don't get me started, ok? But is very strange, yes, that 'guilty
dog' seems to be barking.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Sounds like your spiel at our first meeting. What I want to know is,
why they are.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Got plenty more, but you decide for self. Come to dinner tonight, wear
new gown.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Whoa, you've got me confused with your Sasha.
GRIGORI KINSKI
Sasha will be there, want you to meet her, strictly business, with
little pleasure. Limo there at 8.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Ok, but I choose my wardrobe, got it?
GRIGORI KINSKI
Hey, you are independent consultant, just thought it brings out your
eyes.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Save it for Sasha.
(she hangs up and goes to the closet, holding up gown in question to
mirror)
CUT TO:
INT. RUSSIAN EMBASSY WASHINGTON - DAY
Friends of the Organizatiya are at their listening posts; they have
picked up data from CIA &; FBI.
DIMITRI SHASTAKOV
Something definitely in play: goddam Feds are moving to shut down tapes
credibility......could be chance to tie them into Jaffra death, even if
innocent!
(laughing)
Should we tip off AP guy or just sit tight?
KINSKI PLAYER
More concerned with Schwartz factor-----she could be plant after all;
perhaps we leak our recordings of Feds plotting to AP, anonymous, let
them counteract themselves. Copy your audiotapes for now; will advise
later to use diplomatic courier.
FLASHBACK TO 1985:
INT. EXECUTIVE OFFICES OF GLOBAL EXPRESS CREDIT CARD COMPANY MANHATTAN
- DAY
The CEO is meeting with his counsel and an international banking
consultant concerning their interest in E. Jaffra's bank
holdings.
COUNSEL HARBINGAR
Mr. Swerdling has documented some very interesting data which could aid
in our overall acquisition plan; he checks out at all the Federal
checkpoints----CIA, FBI and NSA. My office is prepared to recommend
implementation, via our European offices, of course.
CEO
Well, we're certainly pleased with the Swiss acquisition deal we made
with Jaffra two years ago; I can get the Board to greenlight it, if
legal is on board. Bring in your man.
Swerdling, a tall, distinguished looking Brit, strides in, very
charming, very toney.
COUNSEL HARBINGAR
May I present Alistair Swerdling, from London.
CEO
Welcome, sit. Halsey here speaks highly of you and your....talents;
please brief me.
ALISTAIR SWERDLING
Delighted, gentlemen; before I begin, allow me to note that I am a
Platinum Card holder and a shareholder!
(polite laughter all around)
Further to your overall purposes, I can inform you that, as fully
annotated in my precis, Mr. Jaffra, and his brothers, have quite a
hold, through nefarious means, upon banknote and gold transactions with
our Soviet friends, particularly with perestroika and its, shall we
say, limited beneficiaries of the very much alive apparatchik
milieu-----black marketeers with Party sanction, not to put too fine a
point on it, actually.
CEO
Tell me, Alistair, what impact do you calculate to overall valuation of
the whole group of banks, including Republican here in New York, should
this unfortunate intelligence become public knowledge, through
third-party intermediaries, of course?
ALISTAIR SWERDLING
Conservatively, a figure of 1/2 to perhaps one billion US, we are
confident.
COUNSEL HARBINGAR
We?
ALISTAIR SWERDLING
My confidential sources, of course.
(smiling priggishly)
COUNSEL HARBINGAR
And what would it cost us to learn who your sources are?
ALISTAIR SWERDLING
Oh, well, they wouldn't be confidential then, would they; no, quite
impossible I'm afraid, bad form, not cricket at all.
CEO
My apologies, Alistair, you know these legal eagles, rather used to
having their way inside the litigation game-------no need for that sort
of thing, Harley, appreciate your looking out for old number one.
ALISTAIR SWERDLING
Actually, you will be ever so much closer to that top standing in
financial services worldwide with our services, you see.
CEO
I'll be studying your precis tonight and we'll be back to you tomorrow,
but I won't be coy: we are likely going forward; in the interim, I
trust your accomodations are satisfactory?
ALISTAIR SWERDLING
Quite so; and thanks for the show tickets, rather a theatre nut.
All rise and engage in the oldest Old Boy ritual going: hand
pumping.
CUT TO:
INT. ALISTAIR SWERDLING'S HOTEL ROOM - LATER
Swerdling is communicating with another 'client'-----the National
Security Agency. He is using a scrambler type phone.
ALISTAIR SWERDLING
Yes, chief, all set.
NSA HANDLER
Are you certain they are on board?
ALISTAIR SWERDLING
You could fit them out in nautical costume-----believe me when I tell
you I have a blank cheque when it comes to Jaffra; is the team set to
go?
NSA HANDLER
Yes, ideal mercernaries: total deniability, guaranteed to heighten his
paranoia about everyone. Do you wish to meet them?
ALISTAIR SWERDLING
That's a nugatory, sir: I wish to retain my deniability, you see, must
continue to swim in this shark pool. Word to the wise: have an
unlimited budget as they will need to be quite good impersonators and
liars, through and with the most respectable sources, of course.
NSA HANDLER
It's black but not bottomless; we have other ways of terminating
services should they become a liability.
ALISTAIR SWERDLING
Well, the pen is my weapon, you handle the swords, fair enough?
NSA HANDLER
Relax, have a good evening, you've earned it, Cheerio.
ALISTAIR SWERDLING
Actually, it's Cheer-0. Kirk out.
CUT TO DECEMBER 1999:
INT. COVERT OPERATIONS SAFE HOUSE IN SOUTH OF FRANCE - EVENING
The NSA merc black operations 'team' has reassembled---they are mostly
ex-Foreign Legionnaires, very upset that their compensation deal has
been partially dishonored, they having so intimidated Jaffra over the
years that he is seriously paranoid about everyone-----Russians,
Americans, even his own staff.
TEAM LEADER
.......and the asshole actually threatens me! After all the goddam work
we have done to freak out this fat pig Jaffra, they are cutting us
loose without full payment as agreed, Fucking American pussies, after
their covert partner, Global Express fucked up their end of things by
giving Jaffra such a high profile, then backing off----actually
apologizing to the bitch publicly---- now they're afraid to even
investigate him; so we have a little surprise for them, lay it out
Andre.

A large diagram is projected onto a blank wall, showing a detailed
bird's eye layout of Jaffra's penthouse and the surrounding curtilage,
complete with expected persons and their assignments.
ANDRE MASSON

Here's the set up: we go in, at after darkness, really shake up the old
cocksucker, only blanks will be discharged on silencer mode, if
necessary; here is the part I love: we will be wearing CIA patches!
Goddam fools, they don't even talk with NSA, turf bullshit, so even
they will be confused. The key is to not disable the security cameras
until we know there has been enough footage to catch these identifiers
on tape. Cannot be too obvious, so the patches will be blurred; we will
have our insider get us the tape and we will make sure it gets to best
media source outside of CIA control. Remember, the fucking TV whores
and talking heads will do the rest for us, goddam public don't know who
to believe, so they believe no one, whole system goes to shit! Any
questions?
ASSAULT TEAM MEMBER
What about his guards? I hear they are Mossad trained fuckers.
ANDRE MASSON
Listen, we have this faggot so freaked he thinks that something will
come down at his mansion villa, so he is sending them there! Paranoia
is so deep, he feels safest in his little nest above his fucking bank
in the middle of Monte Carlo with all the fucking security cameras they
have all over town, ten goddam cops for every citizen. He somehow
thinks sleeping with bank vault under him makes him safer, all fucked
up----bankrobbers today only need hackers, not guns!
(laughter)
SECOND ASSAULT TEAM MEMBER
I have heard that he has several nurses, some male----how do we handle
them?
ANDRE MASSON
Only one has military background, some asshole was Green Beret, but he
is soft; Viet Cong said they were pussies, not like the Legion, we kick
Cong's ass; just use knives to wound, make it look real and speak
English, American accent, remember: 'Get the fuck down!', that kind of
shit.
TEAM LEADER
Alright, if no more questions, let's get ready, in and out like we have
done hundreds of times; Good luck and next time they'll think twice
about fucking with us!
CUT TO THAT NIGHT:
EXT. EMPTY STREET AT 4 AM OUTSIDE REPUBLICAN BANK - MORNING
The team is in place, 'posing' for the security camera before disabling
it; they are rapelling down from the two story roof through French
doors.
SHOT: SHOW JAFFRA AND A FEMALE NURSE RUNNING INTO FORTIFIED BATHROOM
WITH CELL PHONES; THE THREE MAN TEAM MAKES SHORT WORK OF THE NURSES;
THE MALE NURSE TRIES TO WRESTLE AN UZI AWAY FROM ONE MAN AND IS KNIFED
IN THE THIGH FOR HIS TROUBLE; THE MEN POUND ON THE DOOR OF THE
BATHROOM, MAKING SURE HE HEARS THEIR AMERICAN ACCENTS, THREATS-----'YOU
FUCKED OVER OUR BUDDIES WORKING WITH THE FUCKING COMMIES', BLAH, BLAH,
BLAH, REFERRING TO HIS SHIPMENTS, WITH FEDERAL RESERVE BLESSING, OF
HARD CURRENCY TO RUSSIAN BANKS CONTROLLED BY MAFIYA; THEY BACK OUT,
SETTING A SMALL FIRE IN A WASTEBASKET, WHICH GETS OUT OF CONTROL
UNEXPECTEDLY AS THEY HAVE LEFT AN INCENDIARY SMOKER NEAR A
CURTAIN.
CUT TO FEW MINUTES LATER:
JAFFRA'S WIFE IS FRANTICALLY TRYING TO GET HIM TO COME OUT OF THE
SMOKE-FILLED PENTHOUSE.
MRS.JAFFRA
(into phone)
Eddy, please listen to me, you must come out, they are gone
(sobbing loudly)
PLEASE!
EDWIN JAFFRA
(gasping for breath, disoriented, sitting on commode)
Can't breathe.....
(choking)
Not.....safe.......can't see you...
(trails off)
CUT TO PRESENT DAY:
INT. FBI HEADQUARTERS BUILDING PRESS ROOM - DAY
The top brass, per plan, is holding a preemptive strike news conference
to head off what AP has set in motion.
FBI PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
Ladies &; gentlemen, thank you all for coming; as you know, in
recent days and weeks you have been either seeing----or actually
putting out---stories having to do with the untimely death of an
international banker by the name of Edwin Jaffra.
An aide walks over with a document, which he pauses to peruse.
FBI PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER (cont'd)
In the case the broadcast media, a tape of an alleged witness to
suspicious hooded actors entering the Monaco home of that
gentleman

;finally, there have been persistent rumors about a security camera
tape snippet allegedly identifying the person or persons responsible
for the alleged assault on his home there.

The Bureau wishes to state what will become plainly obvious to you all
in due time, which is that those tapes are frauds and have been
deliberately planted by one or more terroristic enemies of the
international financial system in such a way as to manipulate you into
being their unwitting allies.
The crowded briefing room erupts in cross talk.

If you please,now, we know that this could only be unwitting, although
there have also been rumors that a certain news gathering organization
has some sort of axe to grind with the Administration over some alleged
shutting out or some such thing.

With us today is one of the leading photographic analysts in the
country, Dr. Frank Sterling
(speaker motions to him on platform)
, who will corroborate his findings in support of our announcement in a
few moments when we entertain questions; again, I wish to make it clear
that we accuse no one in particular at this time, as our investigation
is ongoing, however, once known to us, there will be full disclosure,
subject to any national security concerns, of course, at that
appropriate time, if any. Now, we will take your questions.
The usual chaos of eager reporters.
CBS REPORTER
Sir, isn't it true that the CIA may have had a covert presence at the
time and place in question and you might have been unaware of it?
FBI PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
Frankly, that question is offensive to our democratic way of life; as
you well know, we are all on the same side here and the thought of such
a clandestine situation is foolishness itself.
CBS REPORTER
But if I may follow up, hasn't there been ample evidence in the past of
turf warfare and outright hostility between your two agencies?
FBI PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
Again, that is speculation of the worst kind and there is no such
problem relevant to this matter. Next.
CNN REPORTER
I'm confused: isn't one of the main tasks of the CIA to conduct covert
operations, by definition unknown to anyone but themselves, save
through Congressional oversight?
FBI PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
You'll have to ask them about that, really; I can only speak to our
mission....
(cut off)
CNN REPORTER
But doesn't your answer prove my point?
(laughter from reporters only)
FBI PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
Are there any questions about the tapes themselves?
(ignoring CNN)
AP REPORTER HAL LEGENDE
Yes, there are: are you aware that the security camera tape has been
analyzed by some of the best independent experts and that they have
been deemed genuine?
FBI PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
Well, frankly, yes, and the qualifications of the alleged experts is
called into serious question by their association with the Face on Mars
hoax.
AP REPORTER HAL LEGENDE
Sir, is your expert as independent or just former or current
establishment with an agenda?
FBI PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
Dr. Sterling's credentials are, well, sterling!
(nervous laughter from PIO only)
Any suggestion otherwise is simply uninformed. Next?
AP REPORTER HAL LEGENDE
Just one follow up, sir: are you also aware that the tape in question
reveals CIA patches on at least one of the perpetrators?
(there is an uproar at this revelation)
FBI PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
Now we have really lost all touch with reality! I'm afraid that we will
need to adjourn this conference until you have produced solid proof of
your scandalous allegation for our expert......good day to you all, we
will reschedule just as soon as you have done so, Mr. Legende!
(he storms out with Sterling)
Of course, all the networks are feasting on this contretemps and
spinning it out of control, something the FBI anticipated but thought
it had contained.
CUT TO FEW MINUTES LATER:
INT. DIRECTOR'S OFFICE SUITE - DAY
The brouhaha is being debated with an eye to some desperate deep cover
measures.
FBI PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
Sir, it got pretty ugly down.....
(cut off)
FBI DIRECTOR
Goddam it, Phil, I am not fucking blind, deaf or dumb enough to have
not understood what my senses just told me on this TV! Remind me to not
call your fuel truck of a mouth the next time a fire needs putting out!
Jumping Jesus!!!
DEPUTY DIRECTOR SMALES
Jim, I'll handle damage control with the press, but you have got to get
hold of these potential bad actors and call a truce.
FBI DIRECTOR
Afraid you're right;
(turning to his executive assistant)
Get me the senior agents in charge of CIA liaison, Russian intel, and
NSA liaison. Skip, you get on down there and do what you can, and put
Sterling out front, let him bore them with photographic minutae for at
least an hour before questions. We need a meeting and soon, got it! I
know how to handle the Russian mob, take a page out of old Hoover
playbook with the WOPs: give em cover, you know, hell, they were good
for business, then, when and if the shit meets the propeller, throw out
a scapegoat, a game even older than Hoover. Need some fucking "Red"
meat and right now I spell that Sharon Schwartz!
CUT TO ONE HOUR LATER:
INT. AP HEADQUARTERS - DAY
The braintrust is gathered to discuss the next move.
JAMES HELMSLEY
Ok, these are the rare moments when the First Amendment gets tested for
tensile strength, so let's take our best shots strong and steady. What
do we have?
DR. EISENSTADT
Mr. Helmsley, my partner and I have definite proof that this film is
undoctored----that doesn't, of course, mean it wasn't a staged
performance.
JAMES HELMSLEY
With instincts like that, you should have clobbered the networks for
their party-line whitewash on the Face thing; alright, I want Sharon
Schwartz in this loop----where is she?
HAL LEGENDE
Supposed to on her way here, she called me after watching the FBI
meltdown.
JAMES HELMSLEY
Good, cause I sense a boomerang right in the FBI's face and, since she
worked with us on this thing, feel it's only right we watch her back
for some 'honor among thieves' deal by the Russian mafia, our law
enforcement/national security guys and who knows who else to throw her
to the wolves as having used us.
Sharon walks in.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Came as soon as I could, with at least three surveillance tails, for a
minute I thought they would arrest me.
HAL LEGENDE
The one thing they don't dare do; Sharon, boss thinks you are being
set.....
(cut off)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Don't worry Russians haven't bugged your offices, although can't speak
for the Feds: really moot at this point----the Russian mob are feigning
cooperation but saw this coming, I must say, long ago. Seems the real
war is between the boys at policy and law enforcement, and the Russians
have been laughing all the way to the bank.
JAMES HELMSLEY
Divided is conquered; we've swept this place everyday and found their
handiwork, just keeping it in reserve as our ace along with our night
desk man who remembers faces very well----as well as phony Russian
accents when he hears one----he's from the Ukraine! Gave him the week
off and a ticket to nowhere conspicuous.
(laughter)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Excellent, I see I came to the right people, Jurassic
journalists.

The thing is, the Russians have been straight with me the whole way so
far, unlike our Federal friends, who like to play it both ways, hedging
their political bets.
JAMES HELMSLEY
Aren't the Russian mob taking a big risk, cutting off their own gravy
train?
SHARON SCHWARTZ
That's what I thought at first, but, as I learned more, they're like
anyone else, even the very greedy: hey, 'we're getting older, too much
violence', it's Lansky Two: let's get into legitimate businesses,
politics, etc., hell, we've got enough so why create more competitors,
and there are no real risks of the authorities grabbing our
assets----besides, any prosecution would reveal their willing hand it
the whole thing all along, blowing smoke up their own law enforcement
establishment's ass, that is the ones still fighting the good fight,
which doesn't, my brain and gut tell me, include the brass at FBI and
CIA and other places we don't even know about, for Chrissake.
JAMES HELMSLEY
Sharon, you've got to go public, and I mean now, we are with you.
SHARON SCHWARTZ
What about the corporate media boys, aren't they sure to be
cowed?
JAMES HELMSLEY
Probably, but its transparent as hell; look, they all, broadcast and
print, look to us for hard news today : the government may want it both
ways, but the media can't have the same deal and keep the little
credibility they have left; they used us as a source when the story
broke, they can't very well say that their hard news source is full of
shit, they go down with that ship!
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Let's do it then. But my emphasis is going to be what caused me to
leave government in the first place: the blatant gall in trying to have
it both ways!
(she is laughing and crying from the seminal moment)
Their biggest mistake was poisoning my cat!
(laughing thru tears)

CUT TO A WEEK LATER:
INT. NATIONAL PRESS CLUB - EVENING

The AP has 'persuaded' the major networks to cover, uninterrupted or
edited, their invitation of Sharon Schwartz to speak on the recent
revelations.
SHOT: BANNER READING: 'A.F.T.E.R.'MATH
JAMES HELMSLEY
Good evening to all here in attendance and those of you watching by
electronic means to this unprecedented evening event here at the
venerable National Press Club. Before introducing our very special
invited speaker, I want to say that, having been in this business for
some 35 years, including battlefield reporting, I have never been
prouder to have been and to be a journalist than today. Since the
earliest days of the courageous Peter Zenger almost two hundred years
ago, our Free Press, our Fourth Estate, has gradually suffered erosion
in both stature and purpose. We all have known for some time that the
Emperor wore no clothes, new or old, but, due to the worst parts of our
nature, kept our tacitly agreed silence. Well, the day of reckoning has
a way of coming, always at a bad time-----indeed, such a time is
inevitable and unavoidable by definition.

Such a bad time has been witnessed by anyone who has cared to but
casually peruse the most recent of our spectacles: a stunning lack of
resolve, unity and, yes, purpose in the fight against the enemies of
the most fundamental feature of worldwide civilization------human
dignity, especially that afforded or, too commonly, NOT affored the
lowest in status, regardless of nationality or origin.

I speak, of course, of our own government, seat of immense power to do
maximum good, but for the will to simply do it; instead, what we have
witnessed has been the most duplicitous application of trickle down
theory the world has ever known, but this time, as my good friend on
the Hill Mr. Gentley has said so poignantly
(he looks at Dirk in audience, front row)
, it is too often unnecessarily spilled human blood that is trickling
alongside the fractional bloodmoney gained into the bargain.

There is hope, however, and it lives conspicuously in the heart and
mind of our speaker; I am therefore greatly humbled and honored to
introduce...... Ms. Sharon Schwartz!
(applause)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
Thank you, thank you all.
(waiting for the applause to die to silence)
You are probably wondering about the banner behind me-----as you might
have guessed, it will become very clear.....AFTER my remarks.
(laughter)
Many people, too many, frankly fear what I might have to say here
tonight, and, perhaps surprisingly, I am at the top of that list.

But unlike the others on that list, my fear is simply that I will fail
in both clarity and breadth in relating to you the sad facts of wasted
national treasure, purposely frustrated good work for the common good
as well as the good of the so-called common and, yes, the cost in blood
of these policies and practices the world over in an illusory war the
United States has waged against corruption within the international
banking and finance system or, should I say, absence of a transparent
one.
The room is deathly silent except for 100+ camera shutters/motors
whining.

I will also perhaps surprise you by giving my summation first, and it
is brevity itself: "ALL ARE PUNISH-ED!; that's it: ALL ARE
PUNISH-ED!

I summon the poignant image of the Duke surveying the slain young
bodies of two feuding families round him in that long ago Italian
tragedy.

And looking upon those bodies of the needlessly dead he was hauntingly
impelled to observe further:"See what a scourge is laid upon your hate
that Heaven still finds ways to kill your joy with love."

In ultimate fairness to the authority figure in that gruesome and
eminently avoidable scene, he had the decency to implicate himself in
'winking at thier discord'-------where is such candor today?
Great applause.

And, so, what a scourge indeed, when those same authorities who cry
'danger' are its very authors: for of all parties to this sad yet
joyous pulling back of the curtain of Oz-like secrecy embodied in this
recent crisis, it was 'true belief' and zeal, born out of "love"-----
of self, money, power, even country------which has left us, all of us,
scourged by such perverse--or at least misguided-- love's consequences.
And, as if not enough damage has been needlessly done, call to mind
those people-- whose slumber beneath fields of true love and honor in
Arlington and Moscow and countless others worldwide --who may have been
permanently dishonored and therefore disturbed.

Though far less worthy of our grief than they, just mentioned, recall
also the vast treasuries of wealth and resources, but for whose waste,
we might well have reduced greatly the need for such places of
lugubrious honor.

What, after all, do we say to our children when those who should ,and
,indeed, DO know much better resort still, like jealous predators, to
their abuse of noble'love' as mask for their gruesome and needless
wrongs. I am not so naive as to think that such foolishness, now
deprived of its transparent masquerade, will end here and now,
forever.
But I do know that it will never again be quite so easily perpetrated,
with your help.
(growing applause)

Before continuiing I need to address, by way of preemption, those
whose cynicism and/or lust for the illusory power of the status quo
still may grasp for the last straw of cowardly refuge: 'she has only
now come to us from the bosom of the beast for whom she has most
recently labored, the Russian mafiya': to them I simply say, yes, I
have worked for both masters, the Russians and the Americans, although
in that service my conscience was and always has been my master.

What, then, in that service, have I learned to allay any proper
doubts?

I have learned that either side has been willing to do whatever it
deemed necessary to succeed; either would stop at almost nothing to
achieve its objectives, no matter the cost: what then is the
difference?

It is simply this: the Russian criminal adversary has never been able
to lie to me about what and who it was and is a hater of authority of
any kind, even legitimate authority, but even this dangerous attitude
they have come by honestly, having opposed communism as much as any
other form of tyranny America would seem to oppose, except, of course,
their own. Sadly, I cannot say the same for my Federal employers who
have sought, and do even now seek, to dissemble and duplicitously bet
on both sides in a contest which, fundamentally, need not be a contest
at all;

do we not today possess the means for all to live with dignity? Your
answer is identical to mine when I set out to divine the truth about
this sordid matter some months ago, and it is this: zero sum rules, for
one side to win the other must lose, are unnatural and therefore
unnecessary.

And so, I say to you, again, 'All are indeed punish-ed' wherever that
increasingly bankrupt game is played; let us do as nature teaches us:
nonzero, win/win is the way of truth.
(strong applause)
Now then, allow me to conclude:
(she prompts the first visual aid on a Giant screen)

For whom do I speak: those invisible yet very real millions of men and
women without faces or names known to us, whose lives have been treated
as so much manure in the raising of our own status in our own myopic
eyes, Russian and American.

OF whom do I speak: all who would tolerate evil means in the doing of
even so small, and undeserved, a thing as 'incidental' good......and
even then,for but a few whose entitlement is perversely ordained by
those self-same few upon whose tolerance of evil that so-called 'gain'
depends.

In the tradition of Zola, I accuse, and, with your help, am able to
support my accusations, specifically, against those of whom I speak in
their coveting of the filthiest of lucre: bloodmoney in the seemingly
tame name of free international commerce.
(uproarious applause)

I now give those FOR whom I speak distinctive names, however generic
and inadequate for my purposes, as they, even if known, could not be
read out in a hundred thousand speeches, though their faces are all the
same, as it were, the dead and the dying
(she prompts the next visual)

------young women forced into prostitution; young children forced into
that and even worse, whose sweet, pure minds cannot yet even envision
the horror of such degradation; child soldiers
(she prompts next visual)

, in a cause they know not of,and those who, by dint of color, ethnic
heritage or simple weakness and poverty are personally ravaged,
drug-addicted, sweat-shopped to exhaustion as are their natural
resources, such as diamonds, and oil, by abuse and neglect so that the
self-chosen few may benefit.

But, say they,' Darwin told us that this must be', thus the refrain is
ever the same----

it is somehow natural and consistent with the order of things that the
self-annointed 'fittest' should only survive, indeed thrive on the
exploitation of their self-fulfilling prophecy for the unfit-----

yet those who dare utter those words ,after today, are defeated by
those VERY words, for it is the language of fascism, one that I had
thought was some time ago consigned to the darkest regions of Hell.
Their thinly-veiled 'greater good' rationalizations ring hollower than
ever, and, now that unnecessarily wasteful 'Cold War' no longer gives
them 'blowback' cover, to use their terms, now seen as all too
transparent harlequin masks.

Of course, the Status Quo has a Latin name for a good reason, but we,
you and I must now prove as durable in our opposition to it.
There is a partial standing ovation, led by Dirk Gentley.
SHARON SCHWARTZ (cont'd)

Finally, I turn to you, the so-called ordinary individual, TO whom I
speak, now forewarned ,and ,thusly, forearmed: will you ,as soon as
tomorrow ,forget what you now know or perhaps, have known to be the
truth, and allow yourselves to be led blindly as the blind, deaf and
dumb;

will you hereafter give, without so much as a single thought or act,
your silent consent to a barbarism which is barely, and now merely, out
of sight;

or, will you, rather, cry out with one voice, 'Nevermore'! I Say to
you, the seemingly formerly disarmed, it is YOU they fear, these rulers
by default; you at whose even possible disapproval they tremble and
pause-----cry out with me then and say with me, NEVERMORE!!!!
(great applause)

I call upon you to share my evidence: post it on your websites, feature
it in your reportage, for all to see and judge for themselves.

In that fervent hope and need, I call upon you, all of you, in this
tool of burgeoning global unfiltered communication we have in the
internet, to demand nothing less, as it is yours, as free human beings
to demand.

And in that joint effort, so that we may not be dismissed as wild-eyed
New Age dreamers, we must declare worldwide amnesty for those who have
gained, howsoever ruthlessly, from this late, great Status Quo. So long
as their ill-gotten gains are thereafter put to transparently positive
uses, they need not fear for human retribution.

Toward just such an end, I have secured a seed grant in the sum of $500
million from those for whom i have until recently acted as consultant:
it is predicated upon matching funds from all similar organizations
worldwide should they wish to enjoy the terms of amnesty.
(huge applause)

And, lest you believe that this grant is one-sided, I am also able to
announce that the Graceland Foundation, headed by an American, Mr.
Winston Davis, Jr.,
(seeing him in audience)
That's right, stand up......he's
also made a match grant pledge of $100 million, challenging private
businesses to do likewise!
(he stands and flambouyantly motions for his several multicultural
Elvis impersonators to enter from the wings move around the hall with
donation baskets)

Finally, let me say that I have been asked to head the Amnesty Fund to
Ensure Reconciliation, or AFTER, which post I happily assume. I Leave
you with the words of a hero of mine, uttered when she was a mere 15
years of age:

" You have thought to deceive me, but it is you who are deceived. I
bring you better help than has ever come to any general or town, for
the help I bring comes from the King of Heaven! I fear nothing ,except
treason."
(loud applause and shouts of 'Sharon, the new Joan')

SHOT: SHE IS SURROUNDED BY A CROP OF NEWLY MINTED 'DO-GOODERS', MOST
NOTABLY AN EMINENCE GRIS TYPE, WITH A THICK FOLDER, WHICH HE HANDS TO
SHARON.
EMINENCE GRIS MALE
Ms. Schwartz, I have waited many years to seek expiation from the right
person: I believe you are that person-----this folder can be summmed up
as a virutal road map to where 'the bodies are buried'----I tender it
into your custody on behalf of both my fallen fellows.....and Future
generations.
(his eyes have teared up)
SHARON SCHWARTZ
(she looks deeply int his eyes and embraces him)
God bless you!
EMINENCE GRIS MALE
No, my dear, God has only to bless you to accomplish our common purpose
for the 'so-called' common......
FADE TO WHITE:
MUSIC UP, PLAYING COPELAND'S 'ODE TO THE COMMON MAN', THEN STONES'
'PAINT IT BLACK'.....