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Hoodoo Child
An Original Screenplay
By
La-Tonia Denise Willis
La-Tonia Denise Willis
1212 Queen Anne Ave N #602
Seattle,WA 98109
206-736-3816
Copyright 2005 - 2009
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HOODOO a mixture of beliefs and traditions that combinecosmology and the personal magical power of African Ifa. Also
known as rootwork.
The folk element that focuses on the supernatural.
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FADE IN:
EXT. NEW YORK STREET DAY
A PAIR OF BLACK AND WHITE SADDLE SHOES race through the
neighborhood making quick leaps over potholes and garbage
debris.
Turning the corner,
and elevating in speed, the SHOES make an astonishing
hurdle over a tricycle that has made its way into the
street.
The SMALL CHILD on the tricycle stops peddling and ducks
his body down as the SHOES raise over him just inches away
from his head.
PULL UP TO REVEAL
VANESSA DUBOIS
Young and athletica pretty brown face with long pigtails
dangling in the wind.
She is smiling now, the joy of the marathon run apparent
and there is a child-like quality about her.
As she nears a
BROWNSTONE in the middle of the block her pace slows down
considerably and she begins a playful, haphazard zigzag
traipse to the
STOOP
where the door opens and PROFESSOR STEVENS, carrying a
parcel of books grins enthusiastically at her.
VANESSA(coming near)
Professor Stevens
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Vanessa Dubois, girl youre looking
lovelier every day. I bet your mama
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has to beat the boys away.
Professor Stevens is an intellectual man. He is wearing his
favorite tweed sports jacket and a white press shirt.
VANESSAS EYES
pour over the parcel tied neatly together with a string.
INSERT - BOOKS
1. To Kill A Mockingbirdby Harper Lee
2. Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
3. The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
4. A Peoples History of the United States by Howard Zinn
BACK TO SCENE
Vanessa points to the middle book and there is a grim look
on her face.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
The Bluest Eye . . . haunting tale.
Poor Pecola waits all her life to be
noticed, wishing for those blue eyes
and what happens to her is a nightmare.
VANESSA
I finished reading it yesterday. Itmade me cry. She was only a little girl
and he did that to her.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Im taking them over to the Boys
and Girls club.
(taking her by the arm)
Hows your mama?
VANESSAProbablyll be pissed when I tell
her Mr. Gorman was out of the special
sauce she uses.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
I thought she made that sauce from
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scratch. You mean to tell me its store
bought?
VANESSA
Dont you tell her I told you.
She likes folks to think its
homemade. She likes bragging rights.
They exchange smiles of acknowledgement.
INT. DUBOIS APARTMENT - DAY
LILA DUBOIS, the matriarch of the Dubois clan, is a plain
looking woman.
She opens the door to
VANESSAS BEDROOM
and finds the girl lying sideways on the bed leafing
through a sports magazine on track athletes.
THE CURRENT PAGE
displays a photo of track superstar Marion Jones in action.
Lila enters her daughters room and heads over to the
TROPHY DISPLAY CASE in the corner of the room.
PAN GOLD AND SILVER STATUETES
arranged in a row dating from elementary to high school.
LILA
I got a call from Mrs. Brewster
just now
Vanessa ignores her.
LILA(continuing)
says shes done told you about
jumping over her sons head while
hes on his tricycle. I told you
about it myself, remember?
(beat)
Vanessa, you hear me?
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VANESSA
(looking up)
Billy likes it when I do it.
LILA
Really? Where you get an idea
like that?
VANESSA
Its a game we play.
LILA
(sitting on bed)
Well, Mrs. Brewster is Billys mama
and she says stop using her baby as a
hurdle in your runnin. And I mean for
you to do just that.
VANESSSA
(closing magazine)
Yes, mama.
LILA
(cuddling with Vanessa)
Care to tell your old mama what
you want for your birthday?
Sweet sixteen. My babys growing
up so fast.
VANESSA
(softly)
What I really want is for the
headaches to stop.
LILA
Theyre backagain?
VANESSA
They never went awaynot really.
Im scared mama, what if Im
in danger?
LILA
Youll be fine.
VANESSA
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But according to the curse
LILA
(covering Vanessas mouth)
Hush . . . dont wanna hear
nothing else about that. Thisis the real world, not some horror
fantasy.
VANESSA
but the elders say
LILA
(interrupting)
Im your elder and I say aint
nothing to fret over. You just
rest child.
INT. KITCHEN - DAY
Vanessa takes a bite of the Cajun style catfish on her
plate. Lila brings more food to the table and takes a seat.
LILA
(continuing)
You dont want any bread?
I made these biscuits homemade.
Shouldnt be wasting food like that.
VANESSA
I eat low-carb nowadays mama, remember
Im in training. You have any idea what
the starch in that yeast will do to
my insulin levels? Its high protein
for me, all the way.
Vanessa scoops up some spinach and chews.
LILA
You young people and all yournewfangled diets. Always trying
to make the body something God
didnt intend it to be. When are
you gonna learn that we supposed
to look just like we do. Too much
money goes into all those ads
about makin you look like somethin
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you aint.
Vanessa remains aloof.
LILA
(continuing)
Anyway, too bad Gorman was
out of my sauce. I was thinkin
of invitin the Professor over.
A single man like himself probably
never gets a home cooked meal.
Vanessa puts her head down trying not to giggle.
LILA
(continuing)
Whatre you grinnin about?
VANESSA
Nothing. I ran into the Professor
earlier today.
LILA
(stops eating)
You did? He say somethin?
VANESSA
About what?
LILA
Nothin . . . never mind.
VANESSA
You like him, I know.
LILA
Hes a smart man and I respect him.
VANESSA
You-u-u-u want him.
LILA
Vanessa! I ought to make you wash
your mouth out with soap.
VANESSA
Im not a baby anymore mama.
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And youre not getting any younger.
Lila gives her daughter a fierce look.
EXT. BROWNSTONE STOOP NIGHT
Vanessa cradles her head in her arms and rocks back and
forth. It is obvious she is in severe pain. There is a
WHEEZING sound coming from her throat.
VOICES are emitted.
They call her name, Vanessa . . . over and over again,
softly. The VOICES INTERLOOP and continue a rapid crescendo
until she snaps out of the daze.
TWO TEENAGED GIRLS
pass by GIGGLING and pointing in her direction.
GIRL WITH BRACES
Witchy witch, hoodoo child . . .
GIRL WITH GLASSES
. . .cast a spell on Johnny Mason
and made his thing swell up.
GIRL WITH BRACES
Everybody knows about you.
GIRL WITH GLASSES
Freak! Freak! Freak!
VANESSA
(standing up)
Johnny Mason kept threatening me
with his thingand he got what he
deserves. You keep messing with me
and youll get some of it too.
GIRL WITH GLASSES
(in Vanessas face)
I aint afraid of you bitch or
your hoodoo.
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Vanessa reaches out and places her hand on the side of the
face of the girl with glasses. She closes her eyes and goes
into a trance.
The girl with braces backs away frightened, watching what
is happening to her friend helplessly.
Under Vanessas grip, the body of the girl with the glasses
begins to convulse rhythmically. The trembling becomes so
ferocious that her eyes roll back into her head and a
strange GURGLING sound occurs.
GIRL WITH BRACES
Stop it! Dont kill her! Please,
We take it all back, please?!
Tell her you take it all back, Justine.
Vanessas eyes open and she watches as the SPASMS increasewith velocity to the point where saliva now drools down
the gaping mouth of her victim.
GIRL WITH BRACES
(continuing)
Help! Somebody help?! Shes gonna
kill her!
INT. PROFESSOR STEVENS BEDROOM NIGHT
Awakened by the screams, he hops out of bed and rushes overto the side of the room.
THROUGH THE WINDOW
he SEES the disturbance with the girls downstairs.
Barefoot, he bolts down the stairs and whisks the door open
outside to find that Vanessa has let go of the girl. He
hurries over and grabs the girl with the glasses in his
arms just before she passes out.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
(picking up girl)
Vanessa, what happened? What happened
to her?
GIRL WITH BRACES
(crying)
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She used her powers. Shes an
evil witch!
LIGHTS FLICK ON in several windows in the neighborhood.
MALE Voice (O.S.)
Hey, kill that noise!
FEMALE VOICE (O.S.)
Whats going on out there?!
GIRL WITH BRACES
Attention everybody, Vanessa Dubois is
a witch! Spread the word!
A LIGHT FLICKS ON in the Dubois apartment and Lila sticks
her head out the window. She is alarmed to see Professor
Stevens holding the girls lifeless body in his arms.
LILA
Vanessa Angelina Dubois, you get
up here right this minute!
Professor Stevens looks up questionably at Lila but she
closes the window and disappears.
EXT. BROWNSTONE DAY
Lila struggles to get her keys out while balancing two
grocery bags.
A HAND reaches out behind her and touches her shoulder.
LILA
(continuing; turning around)
My God, you scared the daylights
out of me. Make the good Lord
take me before my time.
Professor Stevens takes the bags for her.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Didnt mean to frighten you Lila.
Just trying to be a good samaritan.
LILA
(blushing)
The neighborhood is lucky to lay
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claim to a man like you. Not many
gentlemen left in this world.
Your mama sure did raise you
right.
INT. DUBOIS APARTMENT - KITCHEN DAY
Lila pours Professor Stevens piping hot water over two tea
bags. She is so busy looking at him in awe that she nearly
scalds him in the process.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
(jerking wrist away)
Whoa Nelly!
Some hot water hits the table just missing his hand. Lila
looks down at the mess she has made.
LILAIm so sorry Professor, can you
please forgive an old woman?
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Ah Lila, I know you wouldnt hurt
me on purpose. And youre not old.
He smiles and she is once again engaged with his presence.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
(continuing; stirring tea)The girls mother wants to press charges.
Lila places the kettle back on the stove and sits down at
the table across from him. She picks up her cup of tea.
LILA
She called me . . .
PROFESSOR STEVENS
I think I can talk her out of it
but the doctor said the girls hearttemporarily stopped while she was on
the examining table. He said it might
have something to do with the spasms.
If I could just talk to Vanessa . . .
Lila jumps up hastily and clears Professor Stevens
teacup away while he is stirring. He is dumbfounded.
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LILA
So sorry Professor but teatime
is over. You better go now.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Whats going on here Lila? If you
need someone to talk to . . . Whats
wrong with Vanessa? I hear what
the children say about her.
LILA
Thats just talk.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Until last night I wouldve agreed but
something happened. She did something
to that girl and you cant deny that.
He gets up slowly. With his hand on the doorknob he turns
and looks at her one last time, still wanting answers.
LILA
Vanessa didnt mean to hurt nobody.
Shes a good girl.
INT. CLASSROOM DAY
PAN the CLASS filled with TEENAGED KIDS except for one
EMPTY DESK in the middle.
The girl with braces casts a distasteful eye over at
Vanessa, who looks away.
The TEACHER has her back turned to the class writing a
mathematical equation on the board.
Someone THROWS AN APPLE that hits the blackboard. WE DO NOT
SEE THE CULPRIT.
TEACHER(flinging around)
Who did that?
PAN FACES. No one claims responsibility.
TEACHER
(continuing)
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Its not nice to throw fruit
at your dear teacher, didnt they
tell you that in kindergarten?
She picks up the apple and holds it up to the class and
takes a moment of silence.
GIRL WITH BRACES
Vanessa did it!
VANESSA
Liar!
GIRL WITH BRACES
Shes a witch. She hurt Justine,
thats why shes absent. Almost
killed her too. I say we burn her
at the stake. Like they used to dowith the ones in the old days.
The class explodes in LAUGHTER.
TEACHER
Veronica you stop that . . . the
rest of you, quiet . . . .
The girl with the braces rolls her eyes and shakes her head.
TEACHER(continuing)
Justine will be back with us next
week. She has the flu.
BELL RINGS
The class begins to file out the room.
TEACHER
(continuing)
All right, remember to studyfor the quiz. Im not grading on
the curve this time.
(coming near; a beat)
Vanessa, can I see you a moment?
VANESSA
Did I do something wrong?
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The teacher waits for the classroom to clear.
TEACHER
Hardly. You are by far the smartest
10th grader in here. Youve succeeded
brilliantly in maintaining a wonderful
academic record. Your mother would be
proud as I am so very proud of you. I
hear you might even be getting
a track scholarship. Life is good right?
VANESSA
Yeah, I guess.
TEACHER(sitting down)
I thought you might want to tell
me what happened between you and
Justine. Veronica has her side
of the story and I was interested
in yours. Did you hit her or knock
the breath out of her somehow?
VANESSA
I didnt hit her.
TEACHER
These things happen Vanessa. Kids
fight but the important thing is to
confess to your mistakes.
VANESSA
She insulted me. I just wanted
her to shut up.
TEACHER
How did that make you feel?
VANESSA
I didnt hit her, I swear.
TEACHER
Did you throw that apple?
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Vanessa shakes her head No.
VANESSA
(getting up)
Mrs. Miller?
TEACHER
Yes, Vanessa?
VANESSA
I dont feel so good.
TEACHER
What is it?
By the time the words clear her throat, she watches in
amazement as Vanessa UTTERS SOMETHING INCOMPREHENSIBLE,
swoons, and then falls to the floor.
TEACHER
(continuing; rushing to her)
My God! Vanessa!
INT. HOSPITAL - DAY
Professor Stevens and Lila join Vanessa at the bedside.
The NURSE enters and checks the IV in Vanessas arm.
LILA
Is she is pain?
NURSE
We want to keep her overnight
and do some more tests. Shes been
given a small sedative.
LILA
What kind of tests?
NURSE
It could be she went into somekind of anaphylactic shock. We dont
know but maybe the tests will give us a
clue. Vanessa, your mothers here but
dont get excited, okay?
Vanessa blinks twice.
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NURSE
(continuing; to Lila)
That blink two times, thats
our signal to indicate she
understands.
The nurse exits.
LILA
(leaning over bed)
You feelin all right honey?
VANESSA
(softly)
Yes, mama.
(rising up)
Hi, Professor.
LILA(pushing her back down)
Just lay your head back honey and
dont move around too much like the
nurse said. I love you baby.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Vanessa, can you remember what
happened right before you fainted?
LILA
Shes too weak to answer thatProfessor so you can go home now.
Everythings fine. Thanks a heap.
VANESSA
My head really hurts.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Like a migraine?
LILA
(pulling Professor aside)Look, I dont mean to be like
this but its a family matter.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
All right, Lila, if thats the way
you want it. Ill back off.
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INT. X-RAY ROOM DAY
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL, a hippie-looking doctor studies several
pent up HEAD X-RAYS. After agonizing over them, he removes
his glasses and there is a disturbed look on his face.
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
Where did it go? It was there
just a minute ago.
INT. BREAK ROOM HOUR LATER
The doctor BANGS away at the vending machine but he is
unable to get the CANDY BAR to drop from the slot. The door
swings opens and Professor Stevens peeks his head inside.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Excuse me?
DOCTOR
This is boguscome on, drop!
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Here, let me . . .
He steps over and moves the doctor aside.
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
See how its just hanging there?
Drives me mad. If I dont get amassive dose of sugar intake, Ill
fall to pieces. I just quit smoking
and I need this sugar jones.
Professor Stevens gives the machine a HIP SHAKE and the
bump loosens the candy bar and sends it falling to the
bottom.
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
(continuing)
Great. Im here knocking about likea mad man and you come along with
your magic hips
PROFESSOR STEVENS
(smiling)
Just a little trick I picked up back
at the Y.
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He reaches down and gets the candy bar and passes it to the
doctor.
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
Thanks man, Im Dr. Avi Mandrigal.
Professor Stevens takes a long look at the doctors shaggy
hair, woven friendship bracelets around his arms and the
beanie cap on his head.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Im sorry but you dont look like
the typical medical doctor.
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
(patting head)
You think the beanie gives itaway? Well, lets just say going
to medical school wasnt my first choice
for a career. If I had my way, Id
still be in the Peace Corps roaming
from one uncertain destiny to another.
(tugging on medical coat)
This here was all my Jewish mothers idea.
How can I help you?
PROFESSOR STEVENS
You worked on Vanessa Dubois, thegirl with the fainting spell. What
can you tell me about that? What is
she suffering from?
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
(unwrapping candy bar)
Damn strange case is what.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
How strange?
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
(taking a bite)
Are you a relative?
INT. CAFETERIA DAY
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Professor Stevens stirs a cup of tea. Meanwhile, the doctor
scoops ice cream from two different sundaes. Various HOSPITAL
WORKERS dine.
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
(continuing)
Ah man, this here is just great.
Best high you can getglucose.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
You were saying about Vanessas case
being strange?
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
Actually, I was asking if you were
related to the girl in some way as
all information regarding patients
are private and confidential.
Professor Stevens takes a sip of tea. The doctor buries his
face in the ice cream sundae.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Dr. Mandrigal, I care what happens
to that girl in there. Shes a bright
girl full of dreams and aspirations
(beat)
but I got this feeling in the pit
of my stomach. Something is definitely
not in order and shes scared and her
mothers scared and I just thought
Come on doc, I got you that candy bar.
The doctors face resurfaces from the glass with ice cream
all around his mouth.
Professor Stevens takes some tissue and wipes the doctors
face for him.
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
You seem genuine enough. Okay.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Thanks doc.
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
The girl has an incredible amount
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of pressure around her temporal
lobe. Around the meninges. Tremendous
swelling.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
A tumor?
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
Thats what it sounds like. Tumor.
Aneurysm. Something. However, every test
we did came back negative.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Then what?
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
(shaking head)I simply cant explain it. And do
you know how hard it is to treat
something thats not there?
Professor STEVENS
What do you mean not there?
You just got through saying
it was something there.
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
It gets even weirder. First I sawsomething on the X-ray and then it
disappeared.
INT. BUS STATION DAY
A beautiful YOUNG WOMAN carrying a duffel bag hurries into
the
BATHROOM
and into the nearest stall. Opening the duffel bag sheremoves a small wooden chest. Inside, she takes out
a MOJO BAG hanging from a string. She pulls it over her
head like a necklace.
CUT TO:
OUTSIDE THE BATHROOM STALLS
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A STRANGE PALE MAN draped in white coat TAPS LIGHLTY at the
top of each door as he makes the rounds.
CUT TO:
INSIDE THE BATHROOM STALLS
the woman looks around nervously and MUMBLES INCANTATIONS
to herself.
Moving towards the door, she leans her head with her ear
pressed tightly to the side.
INT. HOSPITAL NIGHT
Lila struggles not to fall asleep while sitting near her
daughters bed. She holds Vanessas hand and when the girl
flinches, Lila awakens.
LILA
Honey? What is it?
VANESSA
I feel his presence, mama.
Hes come for me. What am I
going to do?
EXT. BROWNSTONE NIGHT
The woman from the bus station BUZZES the apartment where
the name Dubois is written.
MARIE
(yelling at window)
Hey Yem, you there?!
Meet MARIE DUBOIS, a light-skinned petite mulatto. Her
appearance seems frail but a closer look in her eyes says a
different story.
Minutes later, Professor Stevens comes out in his pajamas.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Shes at the hospital with
He stops in mid sentence and gazes at the gorgeous lady
before him.
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MARIE
Hi, she wasnt expecting me. Im Marie.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
(shaking her hand furiously)
Marie, uh, its a pleasure to
meet you, uh . . . please excuse
my pajamas.
MARIE
You said she was at the hospital?
Anything serious?
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Well, why dont you come inside
for a moment? Ill explain as best
as I can.
MARIE
I guess I can trust you, right?
INT. PROFESSOR STEVENS APARTMENT NIGHT
The place is cluttered with mountains of BOOKS AND MANUALS.
Many literary. Many scientific.
MARIE
(continuing; picking up a book)There must be three hundred pages
here.
(reading aloud)
The Immutable Laws of Physics . . .
(tossing book aside)
Immutable, really.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
You got something against science?
MARIEThere are more things in Heaven and
Earth, than are dreamt of in your
philosophy, Horatio.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Hamlet. I teach literature and the
sciences at City College.
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MARIE
I never went to college. Everything
I learned came from the street.
Its a hard-knock life. And that
comes straight from Jay-Z.
She takes a seat.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
I beg your pardon?
MARIE
I take it you dont listen to rap?
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Im a Coltraine man myself.
TIME ELAPSES.
ON THE COUCH
Marie snuggles up close to Professor Stevens while a JOHN
COLTRAINE TUNE PLAYS down low.
Professor Stevens pours some red wine into Maries glass
and watches her down it all in one gulp.
He grins and then pours some more for her and then forhimself.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
(continuing)
Ive known Lila and Vanessa for a long
time now. When I first moved in Vanessa
was knee high, she used to want to climb
on and over everything. Thats why she
loves track hurdles.
MARIEIt seems so strange to hear you talk
about her. Ive never met my niece. Lila
moved away after she had her.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
You know, Lila never mentioned
anything about a long lost sister.
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MARIE
(taking a drink)
Oh theres a good reason for that.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Is that right?
MARIE
Oh yeahshe hates me.
Marie drinks the remainder of the wine in her glass and
motions for another.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
You better go easy on that stuff.
I wouldnt want to be accused of
getting an innocent lady like
yourself drunk out of her mind.
MARIE
Sweetheart, you flatter me but
innocent is not an adjective I
aspire to.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Its getting late.
He puts his wine glass down and checks his watch.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
(continuing)
Im pretty sure Lilas spending
the night at the hospital.
Youre welcome to sleep here.
No need to worry. Ill take the
couch. I dont mind.
MARIE
Thats real gentlemanlike of you.Ive always depended on the kindness
of strangers.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
A Streetcar Named Desire. A classic.
MARIE
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So am I.
TIME ELAPSES.
IN THE SHOWER
Marie SINGS an old African Yoruba folk song when Professor
Stevens brings fresh towels and a robe into the BATHROOM.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
I brought you some things
Theres fresh linen on the couch
Made up nice and comfortable
MARIE
(stops humming)
What was that?!
The Professor remains enraptured by the outline of her physique.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
(under breath)
You truly are a vision of loveliness.
MARIE
I cant hear you!
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Are you hungry?!
She turns off the water and opens the sliding glass doors
partially to stick her head out.
MARIE
Yes, Professor I am. In fact, I
have quite an appetite.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Please. Call me Marvin.
INT. BROWNSTONE DAY
Lila helps her daughter up the staircase. Vanessa appears
a little weak.
INT. BROWNSTONE - DAY
The door to Professor Stevens downstairs apartment opens
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and he and Marie step out.
ON LILA
as her eyes fall immediately to their embrace and she
watches Marie plant a kiss on the Professors cheek.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
(continuing; looking up)
Lila?
MARIE
(looking up)
Yem?
INT. DUBOIS APARTMENT DAY
Lila enters
VANESSAS BEDROOM
with a piece of cloth sodden with ointments and slightly
burned on one side.
She places the cloth on top of Vanessas forehead. She
checks the girls glands to see if they are swollen.
At that moment, Marie enters with her duffel bag on oneshoulder. Looking away from Lila, she opens the bag to
reveal several balms, herbs, and other potions all tossed
about amidst her clothes.
She dips her fingers in one of the balms and moves to smear
some of the salve on Vanessas temple but Lila stops her.
LILA
We dont want none of that here. No
potions, no mojos, no nothin. Keep
your foolishness to yourself Marie.
MARIE
Foolishness? Yem?
LILA
I aint no pagan any more.
I keep tellin you.
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MARIE
What do you call that rag on her head
now? A poultice, right? Its all folk
medicine. Home remedies. Its the same
concept Yem. Its all about curing powers.
Vanessa closes her eyes.
INT. DUBOIS APARTMENT - KITCHEN DAY
Lila is furious and vents her anger as she paces back
back and forth, hovering over Marie who quietly accepts her
big sisters wrath.
LILA
You come waltzin back here like
Miss. Thang, like you got all theanswers and everybodys supposed
to jump. I take responsibility
for Vanessa. Shes been raised
practical and I intend to keep it that
way. We lead a simple Christian life
with no ghosts or magic curses included.
MARIE
It aint about you Yem and that
life you talk about is a lie.
LILA
I aint gonna listen to this.
VANESSAS POV LILA & MARIE
Straddling the side of the wall Vanessa listens to her
mother and Marie go at it.
MARIE
Yem, you gotta be prepared to
go all the way. Hes coming forher. I feel him all around me.
Hes watching and waiting. His fate
is hers and hers his.
CUT TO:
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VANESSA
moves away from the door as one of her headaches starts up
again. She falls to the floor grabbing her head in agony.
LILA
You think Im gonna do that to my
child? Somethin I dont even believe
anymore? Crazy conjos. Im a Catholic
woman. I take Communion.
VANESSA
By turning your back on what you
are you only end up hurting Vanessa.
Cant you see that?
Lila moves towards her. Marie stares up into her defiant
eyes, looking for some sign of hope.
LILA
You sleep with the Professor?
MARIE
Yem . . .
LILA
Why ask a stupid question right?
Specially one you already know the
answer to. We shoulda left you at thatMaison Blanche were you belonged . . . with
all the other sinners.
NOTE: Maison Blanche(white house)was believed to have been
built by Marie Laveau who was a powerful priestess and
seductress of her time. As folklore has it, within the
walls of Maison Blanche beautiful women entertained and
provided sexual favors for a price.
CUT TO:
VANESSA
SCREAMS and collapses.
INT. VANESSAS BEDROOM DAY
Vanessa finishes the orange juice and gives the glass to Marie.
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MARIE
How ya feel darling? You feel like
talking to your auntie Marie?
VANESSA
(pulling covers tight)
I feel better . . .
(beat)
. . . but thats not good enough . . .
MARIE
No darling, its not.
(beat)
How much do you know?
Vanessas eyes wander briefly then focus on Maries face.
VANESSA
My ancestoranother Vanessa Dubois
was raped by a slave master. Her daddy
killed this man and later he was hung
for it. Before he died, he put a curse
on that White mans family.
MARIE
(rubbing Vanessas forehead)
Saying that all Caulfield heirs
will die on their forty fifth
birthday. None of the doctors know
why you get these headaches but you
do, dont you Vanessa?
VANESSA
(bare whisper)
I hear voices. They speak to me
about the curse and my powers.
I go to sleep with them in my head.
And mama
MARIE
(interrupting)
Your mama fears the unknown.
VANESSA
Thats why youre here.
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MARIE
Absolutely.
VANESSA
Mama said you ran off with a man
old enough to be your daddy and
put the family to shame. That true?
MARIE
Vanessa? Darling do you believe
people have a right to live
their lives the way they see fit
and to love whom they want? Cause
if you do then I can tell you that
Ive learned a lot in my travels.
Ive been all over this world.
All kinds of countries. Experienced
many cultures. The Aztecs. The Incas.Egyptians. Aborigines. I couldnt have
learned so much if Id stayed where I
was with my situation. I dont look
back on regrets honey cause time
is too short.
VANESSA
Why do you call mama Yem?
What does it mean?
MARIEIt means your mama is a goddess of
the moon. She gives life and nurtures.
Like a mama should.
VANESSA
Is she wise?
MARIE
Oh yes, very. Some say she possesses
the collective secrets of the land.
But when shes angry, look out.
VANESSA
Like mama.
MARIE
Exactlylike your mama.
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INT. OLD CURIOSITY SHOP LATE AFTERNOON
Vanessa and Marie peruse the shop for specialty items.
Vanessa finds a section labeled Sacred Arts of the Afro-
Caribbean from Louisiana to the West Indies.
VANESSA
(running over)
Look, can we get something?
Marie follows after her.
Vanessa picks up a strangely decorated artifact.
INSERT - LIBATION BOTTLE
BACK TO SCENE
MARIE
(looking it over)
Cheap knock-off.
Marie places the item in the basket when she notices
a peculiar freestanding figure on a wooden chest.
INSERT - ORNAMENTAL REPLICA OF TOTEM (animal-like)
Marie rubs her fingers over the figure.
BACK TO SCENE
MARIE
(continuing)
Were a special clan Vanessa.
Its more than the roots we believe.
Real and pure magic is like nothing else
in this world. A great and beautiful
thing when you handle it right. Its
something you will learn as you age.These are but things, what-nots from a
store. I believe in magic and everything
medicine, art, dance, politics
absolutely everything serves the spirits.
I want so much.
VANESSA
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The spirits?
MARIE
Yes honey, the spirits. The spirits.
Whosoever serves the spirits has the
power to hurt or heal. He who comes looking
for you uses the power for great mischief.
Revenge against our ancestors. Thats what
he seeks. Oh Vanessa, there is so much I
have to tell you. So much you need to know.
Well talk much more about it later. Come
now, we best be going.
INT. SUBWAY CAR RUSH HOUR - DAY
Loaded with miniature gift bags of curios, Vanessa and
Marie squeeze in between some of the other PASSENGERS.
The train stops. A lone MALE PASSENGER gets on.
He is shrouded in white from head to toe. A wide-brimmed
white hat is pulled firmly over his head with only his lips
exposed in view. He leans against an antique cane with a
pearl handle.
Across the aisle from Vanessa and Marie, the strange
passenger slithers into an open space.
In a matter of moments,
HIS LIPS
launch a multitude of MULTI SYLLABIC RHYTHMIC VERSES.
VANESSA & MARIE
squirm in their seats, their eyelids flutter rapidly.
HIS LIPS
move faster, RYTHMIC SPEECH ACCELERATING TO AN UNCONSCIOUS
PACE.
VANESSA & MARIE
fall madly into a deep sleep.
CUT TO:
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EXT. ALTERNATIVE REALITY DARKNESS
DRUMS BEAT ferociously.
INDISTINGUISHABLE VOICES filter through the air.
A SWAMP
wide with boiling water percolates. SWAMP GAS clouds
the air.
SUDDENLY
VANESSA & MARIE emerge from the waters, taking short
gasping breaths, trying to stay afloat.
The MOJO BAG around Maries neck melts away. Their SCREAMSintermix with the VOICES.
From depths of the caverns a CREATURE patrols the area.
VANESSA
(flailing about)
I cant breath auntie! Help!
Marie grabs a hold of her and pulls her back above the water.
VANESSA(continuing; coughing)
Where are we?! Im burning up!
Its so hot!
MONOTONOUS LAUGHTER fills the air.
The SOUND OF A MANS VOICE speaks to them.
MARIE
Were inside his head, child. He
conjured it up to intimidate us.Show yourself Caulfielddemon
that you arecoward! Oh true Goddess,
heal these waters . . . Enemy Be Gone . . .
Vanessas CRIES escalate.
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MARIE
(continuing)
Darling you look here, he is not
deserving of our pain.
VANESSA
But it hurts so bad!
MARIE
Concentrate darling, the waters
are not hot. Think of a flowing
stream of purple. Itll help
break the spell of his magic.
A SHIFT IN THE WATERS happens. The swamp starts to rotate
in the manner of a whirlpool.
A FORCE
tugs away at them until their bodies are sucked
UNDERNEATH
Many fathoms down. Further and further they sink through
the bottomless void at rapid speed until
CUT TO:
BACK TO REALITY
INT. SUBWAY CAR DAY
Dripping with sweat Vanessa and Marie awaken to find the
subway car empty except for the strange man in the white
suit still sitting across from them.
Marie feels up around her neck, the MOJO BAG is back intact.
The train stops.
The man slowly rises. His face remains covered by the hat.
He stops in front of them, tips his hat lightly and motions
with his cane for the doors to open.
Behind him, he leaves this SHARP INSIDIOUS LAUGHTER that
reverberates.
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INT. DUBOIS APARTMENT GUEST ROOM - NIGHT
Marie lights several candles placed in a circle all around
her on the floor and burns incense.
After the last one, she closes her eyes and falls into a
meditative trance.
CUT TO:
THE DOORWAY
Vanessa appears holding a MINIATURE DOLL made of clay and
straw.
MARIE
(continuing; eyes closed)
Yes, Vanessa?
VANESSA
What are you doing?
MARIE
(eyes closed)
Sustaining harmony.
VANESSA
Oh.
(fidgeting with doll)Is this yours?
Marie opens her eyes and gazes upon the clay dolls head.
MARIE
Whered you get that thing?
VANESSA
It was in the store bag. It looks
kinda funny.
MARIE
(troubled)
Whats that on its head?
VANESSA
You mean this straw?
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Vanessa reexamines the head of the doll and beneath the
straw is a chunk of human hair.
VANESSA
(continuing)
Oh this . . .
Marie jumps up from the circle, knocking one of the candles
over.
VANESSA
(continuing)
Whats wrong auntie?
Marie rushes over to Vanessa and grabs her by the pigtails.
She bends her head back and near her neck, there is a huge
bald gapped space where hair has been cut off.
VANESSA
(continuing)
Auntie! The floor, its on fire!
Marie jerks around to find the candles have ignited a fire.
She dashes over to the bed, removes the bedspread and
stuffs it over the flames. She begins to stomp away at the
flames and Vanessa joins her.
INT. DUBOIS APARTMENT - BATHROOM NIGHT
Vanessa scrubs away in the bathtub. The cleaning process is
intense as if she is trying to scrub away the negativity of
the day.
INT. DUBOIS APARTMENT - LIVING ROOM NIGHT
Lila watches TV. Marie enters quietly.
LILA
You satisfied now?
MARIE
Yem, please.
LILA
(continuing)
You come to my house . . .
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MARIE
It was an accident. I didnt
do it on purpose. Im sorry.
LILA
. . . and you burn up my linen
and put my child in harms way.
You aint right in the head Marie.
MAN
(on TV)
In just a few days, the first
eclipse of the new Millennium will
occur . . . a total eclipse of the moon
. . . Make sure you are in a spot
to observe this unique occurrence . . .
MARIE
My job is to protect the girl
Yem not to hurt her. Didnt she
tell you what happened today?
LILA
About you two falling asleep on
the subway and having a nightmare?
Yeah, she told me.
MARIEDamn it Yem! Thats not what
happened and you know it.
LILA
To hell with you Marie. It took
me years to erase the sins of
the Eldersyears. The tradition.
The plagueall of itgone.
I done trained myself you see,
not to believe. I cant go back.
I wont go back.
MARIE
Yem, he slipped her a cursed
doll. Its got patches of her
hair on it. Hes hexing her.
We gotta destroy it.
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Lila shakes her heads and turns to walk away but returns.
LILA
(throws up hands)
I dont wanna hear it.
MAN
(on TV)
. . . The eclipse is expected
to last about three hours. And
unlike solar eclipses, lunar
eclipses are completely safe to
watch. This will truly mark the
beginning of a most memorable and
historic moment . . .
MARIEHes skilled in sorcery. Vanessas our
only chance to meet him toe to toe.
EXT. SACRED BURIAL GROUND DAY
Marie digs a hole in the earth with her bare hands.
Her whole body shakes as she pummels away at the dirt.
Vanessa takes a white cloth and wraps it around the cursed
doll.
MARIE(continuing)
Tie it tight, sweetheart.
Real tight now.
Vanessa makes sure the doll is secured within the wrapping.
MARIE
(continuing)
Gimme . . .
Vanessa hands her the doll.
MARIE
(continuing)
Enemy Be Gone. All spells
against me and mine disintegrate.
Marie places the doll in the hole and reaches for the
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matches. She scratches the box once and the flame comes too
close to her face, causing her to drop the matchbook.
VANESSA
Its your nerves auntie. Let me.
Vanessa takes over and torches the doll, then drops it in
the hole.
CUT TO:
INT. SACRED BURIAL GROUND - LATER
Vanessa and Marie cover the remaining ashes with a liquid
potion.
MARIE
(covering hole with dirt)Now the earth will recycle all
this negative energy.
VANESSA
Turn it into blessings?
Marie nods.
INT. PROFESSOR STEVENS APARTMENT - NIGHT
Marie sips from her wine glass slowly. Professor Stevenshas a bewildered look on his face and glances back and
forth at Marie awaiting more information.
Marie finishes the glass of wine and places the glass
squarely in the center of the table.
MARIE
You see, the doll had to be buried
on hallowed ground. Thats why we
chose that old African cemetery.
Professor Stevens is like a man who has lost all connection
with reality. He turns away and stares into the distance.
MARIE
(continuing)
I know its hard for you. Believe me,
I know. Youre a man of science but
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youre also a reader of literature
where such things are spoken of sometimes.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
What youre describing is not
Shakespeare Marie, nor is it Alice
Walker. Youre talking about things
that dont really have a base system
other than in the minds of peasants
and ignorant individuals who grasp at
folklore to explain everything that
happens in their lives. Dont you
understand that Black folk cant afford
to think like that in this day and age?
Marie moves back. She picks up the glass from the table and
hurls it against the wall. It SHATTERS TO PIECES.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
(continuing)
Hey? Wha?
MARIE
If that had been a mirror, youd
probably be talking about my seven
years of bad luck. Even educated
people believe in a faith system.
And its not just the ordinary
man who believes in magic, either.(several beats)
You want to say I believe because
I dont have the academic background
you have. On the flip side, Yem wants
to say Im a sinner because I left
the Church. Well, youre both wrong.
I believe in the spirits
of our people before the culture was raped
by the sword and the Bible. And I believe in
the magic that was given to our clan toprotect.
INT. HIGH RISE - NIGHT
The teacher pounds away at the computer only to stop when
she HEARS A LOUD THUMP. Beat.
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VOICE (O.S.)
You can come out now, we have
business to attend to. Come on
out now Im not going anywhere.
She looks around but no one is there. Scared, she reaches
for the phone. While in her hands the RECEIVER TURNS A
BLARING RED HOT. She SCREAMS and drops it.
VOICE (O.S.)
(continuing)
Im waiting . . . dont you
want to know about Vanessa?
INT. PROFESSOR STEVEN'S APTARTMENT NIGHT
Professor cleans up the broken glass.
MARIE
She has to be reborn. It's the
customary rite of passage for the
chosen one. She must face an evil
so diabolical . . . so deadly. He's
gonna come at her with everything
he's got. He ain't one of those in
self denial whose too ashamed to know
what it's about. He's trained in the
ways of the art.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
But spells? Magic?
MARIE
On the train, when we descended
into the swamp cavern, when he
controlled our minds, there was
this beast. A vile creature.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
A beast?
MARIE
He planted the image in our minds.
Youve got to believe me when I
say Vanessa's life is at stake.
INT. HIGH RISE - NIGHT
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CAULFIELD is an albino whose wavy pompadour expresses a
patrician air.
He personifies the very essence of genteel savagery. His
mannerisms are polite and refined but his methods are
barbaric. One only has to look deep into his eyes to see
the malignancy.
TEACHER
Who are you? How'd you get
in here?
CAULFIELD
My great, great, great, great
grandfather died from the hands
of one of little Vanessa's ancestors.
Your dear student Vanessa.
TEACHER
Thats too bad but I want you to
leave now before I call the cops.
CAULFIELD
For you it is . . . and anyone
close to the bad seed. What you didnt
know is her people come from a long
line of witches, descendants of the Ibo
and Yoruba lot. Some of them havespecial powers, the ones that practice.
Fortunately, so do I.
He gets up and moves toward her. She takes a few steps back.
TEACHER
Ill scream.
CAULFIELD
Gee, I hope so. That makes it
half the fun.
INT. PROFFESSOR STEVENS APARTMENT NIGHT
Professor Stevens takes Marie in his arms.
MARIE
Im scared. I dont want to
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admit it for Vanessas sake.
Its my job to protect her
and failure is not an option
the child has.
He covers her mouth with his and kisses her gently.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
I wanted to do that the first
time I saw you. I hope you
dont mind because I have the
irresistible urge to do it again.
MARIE
I must warn you Marvin. To get
involved with me is like Chinese
arithmetic. Im not easy to crack.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
I cant help myself Marie.
She pulls him to her and returns his kissbut hers is
much more vigorous.
He begins to run his hands down the length of her body,
tracing each voluptuous curve.
CUT TO:
LIVING ROOM FLOOR
Naked and wallowing topsy-turvy on top of one another,
Marie and the Professor tumble about.
He has her now, her arms pinned to the floor and legs
wrapped around him.
Pushing into her, he leans down to suck her breasts
until her nipples are erect.
She MOANS in pleasure.
INTERCUTING
Marie and Professor Stevens in his apartment, the
killer Caulfield in the high rise with the teacher.
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INT. HIGH RISE NIGHT
Caulfield has the teacher by the throat and lifts her in
mid-air.
Her mouth is gaped open but no sound is emitted. She
goes through the emotions of screaming but there is a
muted silence.
DRUMS BEAT, heralding his torture.
CAULFIELD
Do you think me brutal?
He releases her from his grip but she continues to hang
suspended in midair, unable to say anything.
He takes a seat on the couch and crosses his legs verygentleman-like. He removes the white hat and places it
on his knee.
CAULFIELD
(continuing)
My European ancestors borrowed
many practices from the slaves.
Indeed, they learned many interesting
things.
(beat)
But one thing was forgotten however
(beat)
the element of control.
(beat)
Im afraid I must show you no mercy.
You are but a link in the chain to
my final destiny.
He motions and
HIS CANE
miraculously rises in mid-air and positions itself
erect horizontally.
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He points his finger in the direction of the teacher
and the cane shoots through the air with the greatest
of ease and slices her body in half!
INT. PROFESSOR STEVENS APARTMENT NIGHT
The Professor cradles Marie in his arms.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Its been a long time . . .
MARIE
Well, thats probably your fault.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
I dont know about that, women
dont seem to be interested inthe Professor Dolittle types.
She smiles and taps him on the arm.
MARIE
You were great.
(looking troubled)
Oh my Goddess
PROFESSOR STEVENS
What is it?
MARIE
Something awful . . .
EXT. MOVING CAR NIGHT
Professor Stevens drives Marie around the city at a
MADDENING SPEED. He makes several turns, unsure of the
final destination.
Marie peers from the window at each turn, scouring thestreets for a sign.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
This is just crazy . . . its insane.
You dont have a clue, do you?
MARIE
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The vibe . . . were getting closer.
I can feel it. Its around here somewhere.
Just keep driving.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
I dont know about this.
MARIE
Wait . . .
INT. HIGH RISE NIGHT
Marie and the Professor gaze in horror at the sight before
them. Blood is everywheresplattered against the walls and
throughout the room.
The teachers entrails are strewn about. She has been
literally torn to pieces by this monster.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
My God, what on earth could have
done this?
MARIE
Nothing on earth.
INT. HIGH RISE - LATER THAT NIGHT
A POLICE DETECTIVE questions Professor Stevens.
Many MEN scurry about the apartment, dusting for fingerprints
and cleaning up the mess.
THE BODY
or whats left of it, is scooped into a couple of plastic
bags.
Marie has her arms folded tight and her head down. She
waits for her turn in questioning. Something happens and she
begins to shudder.
IMAGES OF CAULFIELD appear to her in a SUCCESSION OF
FLASHES.
She starts to shake her head and is quickly brought
back to consciousness by the detective.
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POLICE DETECTIVE
(taking hold of her)
Miss, Miss are you all right?
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Marie?
MARIE
I know who did this.
She looks over at Professor Stevens who shakes his
head, No.
POLICE DETECTIVE
Who did this?
MARIE
Crime in the city is terrible.
May I have some water?
The detective stops a UNIFORMED COP.
POLICE DETECTIVE
Get the lady some water.
(to Marie)
Are youre saying she was a
victim of city life?
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Things like that do happen detective.
POLICE DETECTIVE
Things like that do happen, huh?
Thats funny. I got the impression she
knew someone in particular who
might be responsible. Like a name?
PROFESSOR STEVENS
She doesnt know anything. I told
you. We came here to pick up some
homework for her niece. The girlsbeen out of school a couple of days
due to fatigue and we wanted to make
sure she was caught up. Thats what
she means.
POLICE DETECTIVE
(to Marie)
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He looks at her long and hard and a delectable grin
crosses his face.
VANESSA
(continuing)
Leave me be.
She starts to walk away but he grabs her by the shirt
collar.
CAULFIELD
I am your destiny child and you
are mine. You are running out of
time, little warrior girl.
His voice is haunting and subdued. Vanessa closes her
eyes tight and tries to focus.
VANESSAEnemy be gone!
When Vanessa opens her eyes Caulfield has disappeared
and A GROUP OF STUDENTS stare at her bizarre behavior.
INT. PROFESSOR STEVENS APARTMENT DAY
Lila lectures the Professor.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Last time we were together youoffered me tea and then took it away.
There are things going on with your
family but you wont let me in. I
thought we were friends.
LILA
I know somethin too Professor.
You been sleepin with her. Dont
bother, I can smell her scent on you.
PROFESSOR STEVENSLila
LILA
And I guess you figure thats
none of my business but let me
tell you a little somethin about
Mariemy family found her. She
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was thirteen years old and her momma
was a whore, down at that chicken ranch
in New Orleans. Thereve been plenty
before you Professor. My husband was
one of em.
At this point the Professor, not wanting to hear any
more, goes to the window to get some air.
LILA
(continuing)
Her father was a White man, a
sailor. As soon as he found out he
got a Black whore pregnant, he
killed the mother. We took Marie in,
gave her the Dubois name. Dubois
name is a respectable name. Youre a
good man and I dont want to see youget hurt or your good name drug
through the mud. You deserve to know
what youre dealin with.
EXT. THE NEIGHBORHOOD DAY
Vanessa and Marie stroll arm in arm down the city
streets.
Marie is stunning as ever in a low-cut blouse and
snuggly fitting skirt that exaggerates her curves.
For the first time, Vanessas hair is out of pigtails
and draped over her shoulders in a smooth curl. She is
no longer wearing the saddle shoes but instead sports a
pair of patent leather pumps.
VANESSA
I dont feel much up to this.
Where are we going anyway?
MARIEI know honey but some people handle
grief differently.
VANESSA
Why did he have to do it? Its me he
wants, right?
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MARIE
Vanessa, Caulfields greatest joy
is spreading misery and strife which
is why you must respond to the call
before somebody else dies.
They pass a GROUP OF MEN AND BOYS whose mouths open in
awe.
MAN
Good day to you two fine sistas.
VANESSA
Should we say something?
MARIE
Hell no, a manll appreciate you
more if you ignore him.
More WHISTELS AND CATCALLS from the men.
VANESSA
My birthdays coming up.
MARIE
Same as his. Thats when it has
to be done.
INT. DUBOIS APARTMENT NIGHT
Lila is VACUUMING when Marie approaches and takes the
vacuum away from her. Lila looks at her peculiarly.
MARIE
(continuing)
Im no stranger to hard work Yem.
LILA
(moving aside)Who told you to change her hair?
Her appearance?
MARIE
(running the vacuum)
Please, pigtails are for little
girls. Vanessa will be sixteen soon.
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Lila makes a cross against her chest.
LILA
Our Father, who art in Heaven . . .
Hallowed be thy name . . . Thy Kingdome
Come . . . Thy will be done . . .
THE GROUND SHAKES
MARIE
That wont do it Yem. Its him.
A KNOCK at the door interrupts.
CUT TO:
INT. DUBOIS APARTMENT - LATER
Edgy and uncomfortable, the police detective takes out
a cigarette.
LILA
No smoking in here.
POLICE DETECTIVE(putting cigarette away)
Yeah, well, just thought I needed
something. What a bizarre scene.
I thought I saw some nut trying
to control the weather.
MARIE
Could you describe one more time
what you saw.
POLICE DETECTIVEWell, I thought I saw this man,
only he was shrouded by the wind
and this weird light. And the
earthquake didnt even bother him.
LILA
Theres a lot of freaks around
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these parts. They come out at night.
Vanessa comes in to the room. She has a LODESTONE
NECKLACE on.
LILA
(continuing)
Honey, this man is with the police
and hes got some questions to ask you.
Itll be alright just tell him what
he wants to know about your teacher.
Im right here with you.
VANESSA
Mama, that wasnt no earthquake.
LILA
Vanessa, please!
POLICE DETECTIVE
Now, about the teacher . . .
VANESSA
She was my favorite teacher. She made
math fun too, said I was her star pupil.
I miss her already.
POLICE DECTECTIVE
Think hard Vanessa. Did your teacher ever
mention any boyfriends? Were
trying to check out all the angles. What
was done to her was brutal. A disturbed
individual did that.
VANESSA
An ex husband is all I know. I heard her
one time talking to some other teachersand she said he was the kind of man who
was always self-involved. That he didnt
even notice when she divorced him, not
until she packed everything and moved
out.
LILA
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Thats enough detective, my little
girls told you everything now.
MARIE
(getting up)
Ill see you out detective.
INT. BROWNSTONE - STAIRCASE - NIGHT
On her way to escort the detective out the building,
Marie is unaware that Professor Stevens is spying on
them through the peephole of his apartment door.
CUT TO:
EXT. CITY STREET - PARKED CAR - NIGHT
The detective gets up close to Marie.
MARIE
(continuing)
You never give up, do ya?
POLICE DETECTIVE
Youre an incredibly beautiful
woman, no man would.
MARIELet me tell you something detective,
Ive learned that most men arent
worth the effort. But when one comes
along that you see promise in, well,
it might not hurt to try.
POLICE DETECTIVE
You mean the Professor?
No answer.
Stubbornly, he unlocks the car door and gets in.
POLICE DETECTIVE
(continuing)
Ohbefore I forget. What was that
strange necklace your niece was wearing?
Fashion sure has changed.
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MARIE
Its a lodestone charm I gave her.
She draws power from it and it helps
keep negativity away.
POLICE DETECTIVE
You mean like a talisman? My granny
used to believe in that stuff. She
was always trying to ward against the
evil eye. Im Italian, you see.
Let me tell you something Miss. Dubois,
Ive worked homicide for ten years.
Nothing keeps negativity away.
MARIE
(turning to walk away)
Goodnight detective. Sleep tight,dont let the bed bugs bite.
(turning back)
Or dont you believe in bed bugs?
INT. SCHOOL DAY
Caulfield strolls down the school corridors unnoticed.
He SEES a GROUP OF GIRLS turn the corner, headed in his
direction. The girl on the outside has braces. They near
him, CHATTERING amongst the group.
He tips his hat and with a slight of hand removes a
HAIRBOW from the head of the girl with braces. He
slips the keepsake into his pants pocket.
INT. SCHOOL - CAFETERIA - DAY
STUDENTS wait in line for their meals. Vanessa sits
alone at a corner table. It is obvious something is on
her mind. She is withdrawn and picks over her food.
The girl with the braces bypasses Vanessa and elbows herin the arm. Her FRIENDS make snide remarks. They take
a seat at a nearby table facing forward.
INT. CAULFIELDS LAIR DAY
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This lavish hideout is complete with fantastical European
sculptures and replicas of a bygone era. His elegant
boudoir draped by curtains.
Accustomed to the finer things in life, Caulfield PLAYS
A TUNE on the baby grand piano and muses harmoniously.
Suddenly,
He stops. Removes the HAIRBOW from his pocket and smiles
mischievously.
CUT TO:
INT. SCHOOL CAFETERIA DAY
Vanessa ducks as the girl with braces spoon-tosses peas
at her from across the room. She is furious. The girlsat the table are HYSTERICAL.
When Vanessa turns to leave she is stopped in her tracks
when she hears CHOKING SOUNDS erupt from the table.
CUT TO:
INT. CAULFIELDS LAIR DAY
The sorcerer stands over a tin pale bucket full of
water. Inside the pale the HAIRBOW of the girl withbraces floats around.
Caulfield says a few INCANTATIONS and WE SEE the
IMAGE OF THE GIRL WITH BRACES reflected in the water.
After the image has been captured fully, he takes a
KNIFE and thrusts it into the bucket.
THE WATER REDDENS WITH THE BLOOD OF HIS VICTIM
ON CAULFIELD
delightfully pleased; he DANCES A LITTLE JIG to celebrate.
CUT TO:
INT. SCHOOL CAFETERIA DAY
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To Vanessas horror, the girl with braces begins to
bleed profusely from the throat before keeling over
on the floor.
The rest of the girls at the table SCREAM and scatter
about. A lunchroom RIOT occurs.
CUT TO:
INT. SCHLOOL PRINCIPALS OFFICE DAY
Lila folds her arms around Vanessa. She is nervous and
edgy and unconsciously squeezes Vanessas neck.
PRINCIPAL
They think Vanessa hurt
Veronica.
LILA
(squeezing Vanessa harder)
Well, theyd be wrong. She told you
what she saw. All those girls are just
jealous of her school talents.
PRINCIPAL
Its her talents they question.
LILA
Whats that supposed to mean?
PRINCIPAL
Were all aware of an incident with
Veronica and another girl Justine,
who by the way was hospitalized for a
week after a confrontation with your
daughter.
Vanessa winces in pain as her mother tightens her grip.
LILAYou accusin my daughter of a
crime? You callin her a liar?
PRINCIPAL
I hear the rumors maam. Some
say Vanessa has strange powers.
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That she wills things to happen to
people.
Vanessa looks away.
LILA
Im surprised at you, this is
supposed to be a traditional
learnin institution not some two
bit superstitious joint. That girl
had a seizure and hemorrhaged
that's all.
PRINCIPAL
Maybe Vanessa would be better
off going to school somewhere
else. Its something we would
really like for you to consider.
VANESSA
No! I dont want to leave school.
Beat. The Principal takes a deep breath and SIGHS. Lila
rolls her eyes.
LILA
You heard my daughter so now
what?
PRINCIPAL
Classes will be postponed the rest of
the week. Theres a memorial service
for Mrs. Miller on Wednesday and
one for Veronica the day after, at
the downtown civic center. Two funerals
in a matter of days. Tragic.
INT. DUBOIS APARTMENT - VANESSAS BEDROOM DAY
Vanessa listens to MUSIC.
Marie enters and flips on the lights.
MARIE
He took something from that girl at your
school so he could capture her image and
destroy it. Thats how it works. He laid
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a trick.
EXT. NEW YORK STREET - DAY
Marie and Vanessa rush madly through the streets,
bumping in to STREET VENDORS and knocking things over.
In the middle of traffic, Marie hails a YELLOW CAB and
they take of.
CUT TO:
INT. CITY UNIVERSITY - DAY
Professor Stevens reads aloud to the COLLEGE STUDENTS
from a book of poetry from the Harlem Renaissance.
Just as he engages in a long verse, Marie and Vanessa
barge into the classroom.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
What is the meaning of this?
MARIE
We need to chatright now.
INT. CITY UNIVERSITY - TEACHER'S LOUNGE - DAY
While Vanessa pretends not to be listening to their
conversation, Marie and the Professor huddle in acorner of the room.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Actually, I don't think there's
anything left for us to discuss.
I can't compete with your history.
MARIE
My history? Oh, I see, Yem's been
giving you her interpretation.
Marie turns away and then back again.
MARIE
(continuing)
I was thirteena child!
Vanessa looks over. Marie lowers her voice.
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MARIE
(continuing)
Everybody, including my own
mother, they all used me. They
took everything. Every shred
of dignity they took. They
stole my childhoodripped it
from right out under me.
Do you blame a child for her
condition? For what adults
make of her? Is that what your
scholarly way has taught you?
You really want to know why I
came here? To save your stinking
life, that's why. First out of
a humane duty and second
Marie is a little choked up and tries to hide it.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
(beat)
Look, Im sorry.
He takes Marie in his arms.
A warm smile comes over Vanessa's face as she looks on.
VANESSA
(bare whisper)
Yep, I guess mama missed her chance.
EXT. RUN DOWN SHACK (HARLEM) NIGHT
Located near an abandoned lot, this structure is made
entirely of wood scraps and metal pieces. The floor is
made of sandstone.
A tacked on screen door has been affixed to the frontand a drawstring hangs out that when pulled, rings a
bell from the inside.
Professor Stevens is taken aback by the pure bare
bones living arrangement.
The OLD WOMAN of the house appears from the shadows.
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Her most noticeable feature is the long gray dreadlocks
that flow down the length of her body near the floor.
OLD WOMAN
I been expectin you, come on
in, lessn the evil stop you
in your tracks.
Vanessa looks to Marie, who signals that it is OK to
follow the strange old woman.
Professor Stevens takes Marie by the hand.
INT. PROFFESSOR STEVENS APARTMENT NIGHT
Caulfield picks up a PICTURE OF THE PROFESSOR and
SMASHES it with his bare hands.
He clears the photo from the smashed frame and tears it
in half.
INT. RUN DOWN SHACK (HARLEM) NIGHT
The old woman brings out a TRAY WITH THREE CUPS.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
(to Marie)
I dont know about this.
MARIE(to Professor)
Dont be disrespectful, she knows
what shes doing.
VANESSA
What is?
MARIE
(to Vanessa)
Sssh!
The old woman offers the tray and each one takes a cup
with the unrecognizable elixir inside.
OLD WOMAN
This here treatment will keep
you clean of spirit. Drink it up.
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They toss the cups back and swallow with some distaste.
OLD WOMAN
(continuing)
Hmmf, it aint meant to be
tasty, just efficient.
The old woman retrieves the cups and walks away
MUMBLING UNDER HER BREATH.
Professor Stevens turns to Marie.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
All right, lets have it.
Who is this crazy old lady?
MARIE
(whispering)
Watch your mouthshe hears all.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Just explain to me why were
here again. You said it was life
or death.
MARIE
Mama Roots is going to help us
lay some tricks of our own.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Oh yeah, that clears it right up.
VANESSA
I think what auntie means is
the old one is going to appeal
to the spirits to protect us against
his bad magic.
MARIE
Caulfield. How I hate his name.Mama Roots here can get down and
dirty with him.
On cue, the old sorceress returns. In her hand is a
INSERT - LARGE BASIN FILLED WITH WATER
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BACK TO SCENE
OLD WOMAN
Many stories of blood and death
I sho could tellseen plenty.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Just how old are you?
Marie nudges him in the side.
OLD WOMAN
Wellaint nobody been able to
determine and meI lost count.
She begins a THUNDEROUS LAUGH and SLAPS her knee twice.
OLD WOMAN
(continuing)
Some bad mojo around yall.
She takes out a SMALL PIN from her bosom and holds the
basin over Professor Stevens lap while she pricks his
forefinger.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
This is crazy.
OLD WOMAN
It dont help that the male
species here dont believe.
MARIE
Hes a Professor.
OLD WOMAN
Thats his problem.
She takes a hold of Maries finger and pricks it over
the basin. Before she can get to Vanessa, the girl has
already stuck her finger out and closed her eyes.
OLD WOMAN
(continuing)
This girl times-a comin.
What her mother think?
MARIE
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She still refuses.
Vanessa winces slightly as the pin plows into her flesh
and little ringlets of blood drip into the basin.
The old woman finishes and mixes the contents of their
blood in the water.
OLD WOMAN
There those men who lead a
double lifethis bad spirit
be one of em. He sees himself
in an educated and enlightened
way from when he used to sail
the seas. In the earthly realm he
be a man of many riches.
(points to Vanessa)
When the girl become reborn, the
spirits bestow great gifts.
Professor Stevens gives Marie a chastising look but she
is too busy enrapt with the old womans soliloquy to
acknowledge him.
The old woman then disappears into the back with the
basin of bloody water.
Vanessa licks the tip of her pricked finger.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
What is she going to do with it?
MARIE
You dont want to know.
VANESSA
I bet I know.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
Okay. Why do I feel like Im theonly one in the clubhouse who
doesnt know the password?
INT. PROFFESSOR STEVENS APARTMENT NIGHT
The PHOTO OF THE PROFFESSOR is BLAZING WITH FLAMES and
Caulfield presides over it.
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He recites the RITES OF ELIMINATION.
INT. RUN DOWN SHACK (HARLEM) NIGHT
All is calm and peaceful. Vanessa and the Professor are
curled up asleep on a makeshift couch.
Marie and the old woman are in the middle of brewing
various potions on a hot kettle in the room.
MARIE
(continuing)
So howve you been Mama Roots?
The old woman crinkles her withered face and GRUNTS.
MARIE(continuing)
That good, huh?
OLD WOMAN
Hand me that sachet powder.
Marie reaches for a wooden chalice filled with powders
and passes it to the old woman.
OLD WOMAN
City wanna tear down my old place
here, says I be breakin all kindsof zonin codes and city ordinances by
havin it. Hell, they just mad I aint
needin them for nothin.
MARIE
Whatll you do if they tear it down?
OLD WOMAN
Dont worry about me, you got
your own issues. Mama Roots gonnabe just fine. How bout we talk romance?
MARIE
All right now Mama Roots dont go
planting seeds hoping for something
beautiful to grow. Hes just a friend.
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OLD WOMAN
Girl you cant fool this old conjure woman.
When you was born I saw you, you was the
prettiest thing in the world. I knew one
day mend
be fallin at your footsteps. Your mama
made a lot of mistakes but you the lucky
one to be alive.
MARIE
Except for his blood.
OLD WOMAN
Your man friend know about that?
Or Vanessa?
MARIE
Not exactly. Yem told the Professor
some bull about me being adopted.
She cant face what our mother did.
And how can I tell Vanessa its her kin
shes gotta destroy?
OLD WOMAN
(bottling potion)Old wounds gotta heal sometime.
It aint for you or nobody else
to decide on now what cant be
changed. Nows the time to act
cause the plan was already laid
out before your time. Now, what you
believe in again?
MARIE
I believe in magic.
OLD WOMAN
And old magic believes in you too
honey. Dont you ever forget that.
MARIE
You think hell show up?
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OLD WOMAN
Our spilt blood should protect
us tonight if so. But child,
evil got many ways around the bin.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
rises, possessed.
His eyes roll back in his head and gobs of saliva flow
down the sides of his mouth.
MARIE
Marvin?
He turns beside him and grabs a still sleeping Vanessaby the throat, shaking her fiercely.
MARIE
(continuing)
Let her go!
Marie runs over to try and pull him off the girl but his
presence is too powerful and he BACKHANDS her to the
floor.
OLD WOMAN
He got a spell in him, honey.
Thats what I was talkin bout.
Caulfields workin his magic.
RUN DOWN SHACK/PROFESSOR STEVENS APARTMENT
We INTERCUT between the happenings at the shack in Harlem and
Caulfield orchestrating the spell at Professor Stevens
apartment.
INT. PROFFESSOR STEVENS APARTMENT NIGHT
Standing over burnt ashes of what used to be a photo of
the Professor, Caulfield raises his hands to the sky and
THUNDERING & LIGHTENING is heard outside.
CAULFIELD
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. . .Rid me of my enemy,
bring
down on this child thunder and
lightening . . .
INT. RUN DOWN SHACK (HARLEM) NIGHT
Vanessa SCREAMS madly and tries to pry the Professors
hands away from her throat but it is no use.
THE OLD WOMAN
kneels down in front of them and begins to sway her hips
back and forth, her hands move about and she MUBLE VERSES .
She continues the swaying of her body and arms and begins
to POUND the ground with her fists. Faster and faster shegoes.
The Professor looks empty-eyed in her direction. His
pupils still invisible.
As the old woman continues her verse she grabs hold of
Professor Stevens arm.
Professor Stevens lets go of Vanessa and lunges for the
old woman.
Marie jumps in front of him and he BACKHANDS her to the
floor again.
He takes the old woman down and lands on top.
OLD WOMAN
(continuing)
Grab that bottle of Goofer dust
on the table and lay it on his
footsteps!
She reaches into her housecoat and sprays an unknownpowder substance in his face.
Professor Stevens backs up slowly into his set of footprints
and the hurt enters his body through his feet when he walks
over the mark. He bounces up and down from the sheer pain of
the intangible, the non-existent pins and needles in his foot.
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MARIE
Foot-track magic . . .
OLD WOMAN
Hot foot. Never failed me yet. Now
mix some of the foot-track
with the dust in the bottle and
go bury it yonder under the doorstep.
EXT./INT. BROWNSTONE MORNING
Marie, Vanessa and Professor Stevensall weary from
last nights peculiar activitiesstagger inside.
PROFESSOR STEVENS
I cant remember a thing. You know
Id never do anything to hurt you orVanessa. I dont understand what could
have happened.
MARIE
Its not your fault. You were under
his spell.
VANESSA
I forgive you Professor.
He grimaces and pats her on the shoulders.
The doors open from the
INT. DUBOIS APARTMENT - DAY
Lila comes out to the top of the stairs.
LILA
Well, aint this a sight. You two
kept my Vanessa out all night
without so much as a word.
Professor, seems like its too latefor you. The sirens done lured
you with her treachery.
MARIE
Yem, please, dont be so
melodramatic. I can explain.
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LILA
No need. Marie, I want you
out of my house. And Vanessa,
youre grounded.
VANESSA
(whining)
For how long?
LILA
Until donkeys fly, now get
up here!
INT. DUBOIS APARTMENT LATER
Lila tries to open the door to VANESSAS BEDROOM but
finds that it is locked from the inside.
As soon as she leaves, Vanessa opens the door quietly
and wanders down the hall to the
GUEST ROOM
where Marie is packing her things.
VANESSA
You cant go. Youve got
to make her understand.
You know what has to be done.I need you.
MARIE
(still packing)
Theres nothing I can do.
I best be on my way. I
reckon youll be fine.
Its just my imagination.
VANESSA
Stop it! You know thats nottrue. Isnt it enough that I
have to deal with being
a witchthe fact that a
bunch of people from long ago
decided my destiny. They didnt
count on their revenge backfiring
and leaving me to clean up the mess.
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Now Im being called on to fix
it. I didnt ask to be born into
this clan. Sometimes I wish I
could remove the stupid Dubois
name. The curse.
(calmly now)
I cant do this by myself.
Youre my protector, thats
why you came, even if it means
protecting me from my own mother.
Do your job.
In solace, Marie kisses her on the cheek.
ECHO NOISES FILL VANESSAS HEAD AND SHE BEGINS TO
TREMBLE AND PASSES OUT INTO MARIES ARMS
MARIEYem! Come quick!
Lila comes running.
LILA
My baby! Oh God no! Vanessa!
INT. HOSPITAL DAY
Vanessa is rushed into the
EMERGENCY ROOM
where SEVERAL TECHNICIANS and a CROWD OF NURSES scuffle
about.
Marie takes a hold of Lilas arm and guides her away
from the scene to the
WAITING ROOM
LILA
(continuing)Why Lord, why Vanessa?
MARIE
Yem, you know what day it is?
LILA
(unconcerned)
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Dont bother me with dates Marie,
my little girl
MARIE
(interrupting)
Its Saturday the 12th
. TomorrowsSunday the 13thVanessas birthday
and his.
LILA
Didnt I throw you out?
MARIE
Theres nothing they can do
for her in here and you know
it. Its time.
Lila opens up her hands and plants her face inside.
She begins to CRY.
Marie waits for a minute or two before taking her sister
in her arms.
LILA
I cant.
MARIE
(patting her back)
You can . . . we can . . . shell
die here tonight if we dont or
hell kill her tomorrow. Your choice.
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM LATER
Dr. Mandrigal consults with Lila and Marie while Vanessa
lies comatose.
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
(glumly)
Miss. Dubois, by all scientific
accounts Vanessa is . . .(looking down at the ground)
. . . her heart is barely beating
at an infinitesimal rate . . . she
has lost complete function of all
apparatus . . . internally virtually
everything is shut down. The swollen
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mass of tissue surrounding her frontal
lobe has grown ten inches in diameter
since I checked her laststill
it doesnt register as being a
carcinogen or malignant in any way. A
confounding conundrum. We doctors dontoften do well with those. By all rights
your daughter should be dead.
LILA
Shell stay right here!
MARIE
Doctor , if you could excuse us. My
sister and I need some time alone.
Lila gives her a look.
DOCTOR MANDRIGAL
Sure, sure. I know how hard this
is on you.
He looks back and forth between them.
Immediately when he is gone:
MARIE
Ill go see if I can get
my hands on the closest thing
to a butcher knife. And I
should give Marvin a call and
have him come for us.
When she is gone:
LILA
(at Vanessas bedside)
Precious baby girl, Lordheal my Vanessa.
She looks up to the Heavens and clasps her hands
together.
LILA
(continuing)
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Lord, stop me from this unholy
act, bring Vanessa back to me and
proveem wrong.
She checks to see if there is any change in Vanessas
condition. There is none. She rubs Vanessas forehead
soothingly.
LILA
(continuing)
The sins of the elders visited
upon the young.
She lays her head on Vanessas stomach. Marie enters
with a big SURGICAL KNIFE.
MARIE
Yemget my bag. We need to hurry.
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM NIGHT
Vanessas body is unclothed and on her right hip is the
INSERT - BIRTH MARK
of the warrior child.
CUT TO:
Van Van Incense is burned to clear away enemy tricks
during the rite of passage and to bring about prophetic
dreams.
CUT TO:
Marie sponge bathes Vanessa.
CUT TO:
MAGIC CIRCLE
Vanessas body lies in a semi conscious state on the
hospital floor, enclosed in a charcoal drawn circle.
LILA
So many of our people done sold
their soul to the monster at the
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crossroads. And here you ask me
to give my only child.
MARIE
Put down your religion for a
second and pick up your magic for
a change.
Marie grabs a hold of Lilas hands and they lock
themselves around Vanessa.
Marie speaks in strange TONGUES. Her fingernails dig
deep into Lilas flesh.
CLOSE ON
Blood drips from Lilas palms onto Vanessas bare chest.
A HOLD takes over Lilas body and shes swept into the
signs of spirit trance against her will.
VANESSAS BODY
heaves in the circle.
They enter a supernatural realm and meet the spirits
head on (parallel between this world and the near death
existence).
In this prophetic vision Vanessa connects with the
history of her ancestor who murdered the Caulfield heir
after his daughter was raped and thus brought about the
commencement of the curse.
MARIE
(continuing)
Free her from her former self.
LILA
No! I cant!
MARIE
She must die to be reconstituted.
She must respond to the call.
She picks up the knife and gives it to Lila. Lila tries
to let go of it but it welds itself to her flesh by
the elements.
-77-
8/14/2019 Hoodoo Child
78/110
ILLUMINATIONS OF VARIOUS CONJURED UP SPIRITS SPRING
FORTH FROM VANESSA
MARIE
(continuing)
Now! Do it now!
The knife in Lilas hand draws near, unconsciously she
plunges it into Vanessas body.
EXT. HOSPITAL NIGHT
Marie and Lila smuggle Vanessas bloody body out wrapped
in a hospital sheet, to a
PARKED CAR
where Professor Stevens looks on in horror.