text / (U.S.) George Clooney
translation / Cao Yi
interior view, Miami University, Oxford Auditorium, Ohio,
Governor Morris's spokesperson Stephen Meyers standing on the podium After... a bunch of chasing lights hit him. The rest of the stage is dark.
He said clearly to Mike without emotion:
I am neither a Christian... nor an atheist. I am neither a Jew... nor a Muslim. What I believe...is called the constitution...
pause.
Stephen snapped his fingers at Mike. We heard clear echoes from strong to weak.
We heard the on-site guide yelling in a loudspeaker: Wait... I turn these on...
We waited, Stephen looked around. He saw the busy set staff. No one noticed him standing there. Stephen did not feel uncomfortable, this is the routine.
On-site guidance (continued): Alright... the
lights illuminate the podium of another debater.
Stephen continued: I will maintain your power to believe in any god
throughout my life... The lamp that illuminated Stephen's podium went out, and he was plunged into darkness.
Stephen (continued): If you think I am not religious enough, don't vote for me. (To the director) Are you okay?
His podium lights up again.
The on-site guidance did not answer, and Stephen continued.
Stephen (continued): If you don't think I'm experienced enough, don't vote for me. If you think I...
On-site guidance: Okay, thank you.
Stephen: Thank you. The volume of these monitors was turned up a bit, it was too big here, he wanted to be able to hear it.
Stage manager: No problem.
Stephen: Also, we want to raise the podium a little bit, as we said beforehand. This is a few inches shorter, and the governor will struggle to read the manuscript.
Stage Manager: I know that we only received those instructions last night, they are making a pad...
Stephen: Very good, thank you. We will come back in a few hours.
Stephen met his staff member Ben Harpen.
Ben: I don't know that the governor has vision problems. Why doesn't he wear...
Stephen: He's okay, but Pullman is only 1.76 meters away, and standing behind that podium looks like a hobbit.
They left...
Location, Miami University, Oxfordshire, Ohio.
Rirob Brown is a local news anchor in Cincinnati. He is talking to the camera. We see Stephen and Ben walking out of the building. At the same time we heard Rachel Maddeau reporting.
Rachel Maddeau (outside the picture): This day has finally come... There is one week before the Ohio primary election... The
scene was transferred from Rob to another news car, and an MSNBC reporter waited in front of the camera to prepare for the live broadcast. There is a monitor in front of him.
The camera continues to zoom in towards the monitor, Rachel Maddor is talking the opening remarks.
Rachel's voice continued, and we saw the image below.
Location, the central part of the United States
shot across a snow-covered rural landscape-flat, dark, and desolate. We saw the huge red, white and blue words "Ohio supports Morris" on the side of a barn in the distance.
Rachel Maddor (outside the picture), the two Democrats came to the end. Senator Pullman of Arkansas started in Pennsylvania and followed Governor Morris.
Before long, the camera came to another farmland, and a huge notice board was erected by the roadside: "Pullman---The future of America begins on March 15th."
Outside scenes, the
footage of the suburban streets was cut to the point where canvassers—who were all dressed thickly in the severe cold—knack on the doors of suburban buildings from house to house. Placards of two candidates were lined up along the street.
Rachel Maddeau (outside the picture): Governor Morris took the lead with 2047 delegate votes, winning New Hampshire, California, New York and Michigan... But Congressman Pullman with 1302 votes also went after him. Florida, Tennessee, Virginia, and Missouri...
outside scenes,
supporters of urban intersections stood at the intersections holding self-made placards and waved to passing vehicles: "Horn for Morris." A passing car honked its horn, and supporters cheered.
Rachel Maddor (outside the picture): Whether or not to win in Ohio is critical to the Arkansas Senator... A
close-up shot is attached to the rear of a Pullman car parked at a traffic light intersection, and next to it is "My The child is an honorary student" sticker.
Rachel Maddor (outside the picture, continue): In the week after Tuesday, 181 important votes of Ohio representatives became the winning weight...
Exterior scene, a hardware store
clerk put Morris's placard in the shop window . There are several televisions in the window of the shop next door. Rachel Maddor is reporting on TV.
Rachel Maddeau (outside the painting): Once again confirmed the motto... "Where Ohio comes, the whole country will come."
Location, University of Miami, Oxfordshire, Ohio. In the afternoon
we saw a satellite broadcast van, dedicated to the media Cars and police cars etc.
Molly Stearns, a 19-year-old intern, was standing next to a catering truck, holding a plate with a few cups of coffee and a box of doughnuts in her hand.
The camera followed her across the road and walked into a door...
Interior view, Miami University, the campaign war room, the camera continued
Molly walked in, the camera followed her into the campaign war room, the room was small and packed to the maximum. Twelve staff members equipped with laptop computers.
This is a noisy scene close to live TV. We saw broadcast footage from several angles...
Senator Pullman: Do you think you are a Christian?
Governor Morris: Is this important?
Senator Pullman (read): "I don't know what happens when people die, maybe they disappear... Maybe it's like before we were born." You wrote, Governor...
Governor Morris: Let me explain... I Growing up in a Catholic family, I am not an avid Catholic...I don't know what happens when a person dies. If the senator knows, then maybe he should be president. I will vote for him.
The audience laughed.
Senator Pullman: Is this what you call an explanation?
Molly brought coffee.
Interior view, Miami University, auditorium, scene of continuous
debate on camera .
Governor Morris: Let me explain further. I am neither a Christian nor an atheist. I am neither a Jew nor a Muslim... What I believe in... My religion is written on a piece of parchment called the Constitution. This means that I will defend to the death your right to worship any god or have no faith, as long as you don't hurt other people. I think that as a government, improving people's livelihood is the criterion for judging us. This is my belief. If you think I am not religious enough, then don't vote for me. If you think I'm not experienced enough or tall enough, don't vote for me. Because I will not change these for canvassing votes.
Senator Pullman: I just hope you can clarify whether you believe in the Bible or not.
Governor Morris: Is this a Democratic primary or a general election?
The audience laughed.
Senator Pullman (monitor): Well, governor, whoever wins this debate will vie for the presidential seat... If you think these issues are not important in the election, then you are living in Dreamland. I applaud your honesty, Governor, really...I just point out the clear fact...We are running for the president of the United States...not the president of the student council.
Interior shot, University of Miami, backstage, continuous camera
Paul Zara, Morris' campaign agent, waiting on the side of the stage. Stephen stood beside him.
In the background, we saw the candidates shaking hands and applause rang out.
Paul is a steadfast campaign veteran who is nearly 50 years old and pale. He is Stephen's superior, the only person between Stephen and Governor Morris.
They crossed their arms and looked at the governor on the stage.
Paul: Two consecutive victories?
Stephen: Two consecutive victories.
Paul: Go to his country to be safe.
The governor looked at Paul and Stephen in the side stage, looking forward to approval.
Paul (continued): Perfect.
Stephen: A total victory.
The host thanked everyone for coming to the debate.
Tom Duffy, the campaign agent of his opponent Pullman, was also on the sidelines. Duffy is a sleek, calculating, and cold-hearted person. He walked towards Stephen and Paul.
Duffy: I'm recalling whether the Democratic Party has nominated any atheists...
Paul: As far as we know they have nominated a lot of idiots.
Duffy (to Stephen): It must be your preparation. Paul is not that smart.
Paul: You have always had a brain, Duffy, but I—I have always had courage.
Duffy (nods to Stephen): It seems that you also have a brain now. Be careful, I might dig him away from you.
Duffy greeted Senator Pullman who was approaching the audience. Paul and Stephen watched him go away.
Paul: Bastard.
The camera cuts to:
interior view, Ramada Hotel Cincinnati, bar, night
Stephen, Paul, Ida and Ben sit around a table and drink. The atmosphere is cheerful. The piano player sings while playing.
There was a wheeled suitcase beside Paul.
Ada: Paul, tell me something I don't know... Tell me what will happen on the 15th.
Paul: Haha.
Ada: What?
Paul: What do you think, Steve?
Stephen: I think we are set to win.
Paul: Ben?
Ben: We will win.
Paul: What do you think, Ada?
Ada: I'm asking you.
Paul: You speak first, and then I tell you.
Ada: If you let me say, the votes will be very close, but you are slightly ahead.
Paul: Slightly? (To Stephen) Did you see that, she is deliberately pissing me off.
Ada: What will happen then?
Paul: We will win by 9 votes.
Ada: 9 votes? You can't win 9 votes.
Stephen: At least, maybe more.
Ida (to Paul): Then you are sure to win?
Paul: Are you sure? No. Have confidence? Yes.
Ada: You just said you would win 9 votes.
Paul: I think we will, but I won't say foolproof. Maybe St. Gabriel would blow his trumpet and get his four equestrians to vote for Pullman, which I’m not surprised. Don't get me wrong. I participated in six presidential elections and I have never felt so good. But let me sit here and say "Yes, we must take Ohio"? Never. In the past 30 years, 73 Democrats have ran for president. How many wins? Three. In other words, the 70 people who thought they had a play all failed.
Ada: So you mean you probably won't win.
Paul: Don't twist my words. What I'm saying is that I don't guarantee to win. But Morris was awarded the Bush Sr. Medal in the First Gulf War, but he opposed the Second Gulf War. His state breaks even and his level of education ranks fourth. No one of those Republicans dared to move him... So, for now, this election, this primary election is the general election. And this, Ida, is the national conditions. Speaking of which, I have to go to the toilet.
Ada: So Stephen...
Stephen: What's the matter, Ada?
Ada: Stephen, Stephen, Stephen...
Stephen: Here again... it's me again.
Ada: Is Paul going to the airport?
Stephen: Yeah.
Ada: Take a plane?
Stephen: Yeah.
Ada: Where to go?
Stephen: Let you guess three times.
Ada: Not back to headquarters.
Stephen: No.
Ada: Not to Texas?
Stephen: No need, we gave up Texas, that's a bit of a chicken rib.
Ada: Is that North Carolina?
Stephen: Is that what you guessed?
Ada: He is going to North Carolina.
Stephen: I neither say yes nor say no.
Ada: I knew it. tell me why.
Stephen: I can't say.
Ada: I hate you.
Stephen: You love me.
Ada: I love Paul. I hate you.
Stephen: You love him only because he gives you all the inside information.
Ada: Physical exchange of information?
Stephen: You are engaged.
Ada: If it's a hot enough inside story, my fiance will understand it.
Pause.
Ada (continued): Do you really believe these nonsense? And all the nonsense of allegiance to the country?
Stephen: Ida, I am not naive in this regard. I have participated in more campaigns than most 40-year-olds... I tell you you can't go wrong this time.
Ada: You really drank Ecstasy.
Stephen: I drank it and it tastes good. I don't care if he can lead the votes...I don't care if he has the skills...because the fact is that he is the only person who will improve people's livelihood...even for those who hate him. If Mike Morris becomes president, it will mean more to us than to him. I don't care if he has the ability to win, he must win.
Ada: Otherwise, what will happen, the earth won't turn? It doesn't matter at all... No one cares, everyone lives as usual, working, eating, sleeping and then getting up and returning to work. If your boss wins...you can work in the White House...if he loses, you go back to the consulting firm on K Street...that's it. You have known this for a long time, but now you are so stunned by this guy. Morris is a politician...he is a nice guy...they are all nice guys. You will see him through...sooner or later.
Location, Ramada Inn sidewalk, later
Ada and Ada Paul to the car door.
Paul: You must keep it secret.
Ada: What?
Paul: Franklin Thompson.
Ada: Really?
Paul: Confidentiality. The only people who know are the governor, Stephen and me.
Ada: I'm tight-lipped.
Paul: I have a meeting at Thompson's house tomorrow.
Ada: Will he agree?
Paul: I'll talk to him, what do you think?
Ada: This is a big deal.
Paul: More than that, he has 356 sworn representatives...These people follow him. With these tickets, we are firmly ahead.
Ada: He publicly stated that he will not support anyone.
Paul: These people always say that until we talk to them individually.
Ada: So is this true?
Paul: Exactly. What's in the bag, almost.
Ada: When will you make this news public?
Paul: Let's not talk about it, you can only know this now.
Interior
scene , Morris campaign headquarters, Cincinnati, set shots for the second day .
Ben distributes new mobile phones to all the staff.
Ben: Listen... these are your new phones. Shelly has entered everyone's number... Thank you Shelly... Can't make private calls... If you lose it, Paul authorizes me to kill you.
Ben walked into Stephen's office and handed him the phone.
Ben (continued): New phone...
Stephen: I'll come to you in a moment...
Ben is leaving, Stephen is watching Morris's previous video. Another staff member and an editor are also watching. Outside the office, we saw other staff members busy in their respective glass cubicles.
We saw some video clips.
Governor Morris (on the monitor): Economic...medical...I believe we can do it. We have enemies... We must understand why they are our enemies, and see what we can do about them other than force. History tells us that the way we treat extremism is not extremism. No matter who is the next president and who will take office, there is a lot of work, but you also have some small things to do.
Stephen pressed timeout.
Stephen: It's terrible... when is this?
Editor: Before a town hall meeting in Pennsylvania...
Stephen: Thank goodness not out of town .
Cut down this paragraph--- Editor: It was put in his base camp. If---
Stephen: Did you drink too much... This is exactly the paragraph that the Republican Party criticized in the primary election... Do we want more? Promote it... Hi, this is Neville Chambélan, and I want to be your commander-in-chief.
Editor: If it is leaked -
Stephen: Yes, but we shouldn't be responsible for it. (To the staff) Find out if Pullman has invested in a diamond mine in Liberia?
Staff 1: We are still checking... but it's just a web log, who knows...
Stephen: It doesn't matter, I just want to hear him deny this. If it is true, find out the evidence, if not, let them declare in front of the media that he does not own a diamond mine in Liberia...however they win.
Staff 1: Okay.
Stephen: We have to deal with the mess of Christianity last night... speed it up... what about our new 30-second and 60-second film? Show it to him at the internal meeting in the afternoon.
Editor: It's done.
The editor and staff left.
Stephen turned to the computer and started typing, and Molly walked in and handed him a stack of papers.
Molly: Ben asked me to show it to you for your signature before the internal meeting.
Stephen: Okay. thanks. I am waiting for this.
Molly: Is there anything interesting?
Stephen: The white paper I am going to send out tonight.
Molly: White paper?
Stephen: Rubbish. Our opponents did an investigation-to give the media some information and let them bite.
Molly: What kind of garbage is that?
Stephen: You'll know by reading tomorrow's newspaper.
Molly: Which newspaper?
Stephen: All the newspapers.
Molly: Was that a sensation?
Stephen: Actually I hope the more sensation the better. It's just some shipping order numbers. To create a sensational effect, I have to make some fierce information.
Molly: This is your strength, isn't it?
Stephen: Maybe.
Molly (holding up her phone): Did you get your phone?
Stephen (holding him up): Just got it.
Molly (pretending to be serious): Very exciting, isn't it?
He looked at her.
Stephen: You are Binturong...?
Molly: What?
Stephen: Cincinnati Binturong?
Molly: No... I'm not a local... I work with you in Iowa.
Stephen: Oh, yes...but (looking down the steps) you have changed a bit.
Molly: My hairstyle?
Stephen: You changed your hair style.
Molly (enjoying the game): No...
Stephen: I must look like a complete fool right now.
Molly: Not at all... You are a big man in the company... I'm just a little intern.
Stephen: That's not the case.
Molly: Of course... You stayed at the Millennium Hotel, and they let us stay at the motel on the other side of the river.
Stephen: You are right, I am a big man in the company.
Molly: Now you know.
She turned and left.
Molly (continued): But our bar is better.
Stephen: I heard.
Molly: You'd better come over and have a drink with the little staff one night.
Stephen: I will... which day is right?
Molly: Tonight will be great...
Stephen: Really? Tuesday?
Molly: Yeah, it will be quiet.
Stephen: I like to be quiet.
Molly: You have my number.
Stephen: Do I have one?
Molly: It has been pre-stored in your phone.
Stephen: Oh... yes... (He turns on the phone)
Molly: Under Mary's list.
Stephen (looking at the phone): Okay...Mary.
Molly smiled. Then she walked out.
Molly: Molly...My name is Molly...
Stephen laughed mockingly.
Interior view, Senator Thompson's home, Charlotte, North Carolina. The Japanese
camera followed a housekeeper through the entrance and came to the living room. Paul and Senator Thompson sat together.
Senator Thompson: I heard... Since "Election Tuesday", I have become a very popular person. What do your opinion polls say?
Paul: Pullman is a lot behind...almost 40 votes. Your Excellency, we have prepared a position for you in the White House, and the Republicans have nothing to do. They are a mess, and all the nominees are big bastards. It looks more like the Democratic Party. No Republicans will vote for themselves. But if Pullman gets the support of the Democratic Party, these people will vote for his opponents.
Senator Thompson: So you think they will definitely not vote for you... You think Morris can only get support from non-partisans.
Paul: I can be so sure. Your Excellency... I am a little confused... We need your representative... We need you... Your fund-raising. I guess...you have to show your support a week before the Ohio vote...this will give us a chance to win.
Senator Thompson (looking at his assistant): Estella... hand me the ice bucket. Inside
view, Morris campaign headquarters, Cincinnati,
this was an internal think tank meeting on the same day . Paul has left, the others are still... Stephen, Ben, Governor Morris. Molly was busy going in and out, attracting everyone's attention.
Stephen: Paul knows... Paul agrees...
Governor Morris: Ben, where is my comment on the National Service? I better solve this.
Ben: Here it is (he turned on the laptop).
Governor Morris: Give me a copy... I hate these...
Stephen: Print it out.
Ben: I'll do it. Molly, I will type this out... Can you connect me to the printer?
Molly: Go now.
Stephen: Governor... If you want to modify... or add...
Governor Morris: Wait a minute...
Stephen: Your military service policy is not as effective as your other policies.
Governor Morris: I don't care how many votes I can get... I don't want to play this game with you, Stephen... If you and Paul are playing with me who sings the white face and who sings the red face...
Stephen: White face, red face.
Governor Morris: I will not change my strategy.
Molly handed a copy to the governor.
Governor Morris (continued): Wait a minute.
He read the copy until he found what he was looking for.
Governor Morris (continued): I am here to help people get an education...achieve national unity... let young people master vocational skills... help pay off student loans." Tell me where is the problem.
Stephen: All right... Mr. Governor, if you want to do this... just let it go. Don't make it voluntary, be compulsory.
Governor Morris: In this way, you can get votes.
Stephen: Mandatory! Anyone who has graduated from high school or is over 18 must serve in his or her country for two years. The army...the peacekeeping force...even if you plant trees, I don't care...for this...they can get free middle school education...clear and clear.
Governor Morris: We have done this now...
Stephen: No, sir, you didn't...fully implement it...without omission. Mandatory.
Governor Morris: Paul likes this? ...You guys are my think tank.
Stephen: The beauty of this is that... all people over 18 years of age who are eligible to vote will support you... build a sense of national pride... so that all children can be educated.
Governor Morris: What about the others?
Stephen: Can't vote, it's too small.
He persuaded everyone, and some people smiled.
Stephen (continued): You will not lose.
Molly walked in.
Molly: Stephen, there is a call from you on Line 3. It is your father.
Governor Morris: Okay, you and Ben will add this to the campaign speech — give me a copy — I will write it in my own words.
Stephen: Remember, Mr. Governor... Charlie Rose was appointed at 6 o'clock...
Governor Morris: What did I see him doing?
Stephen: It's a long report... He flew over here...
Governor Morris: Will Paul go?
Stephen: No, he can't come back... Ben and I will accompany you...
He left.
Interior scene, Stephen's office/interior scene, Duffy's office, the camera continues
Stephen picks up the microphone and connects to Line 3.
Stephen:...Don't tell me someone is dead...
Duffy: Hi, Stephen...
Stephen: Who is it?
Duffy: Tom Duffy... sorry to call yourself your father... but I don't think you want to hear my name being called out in the Morris campaign office.
Stephen stood up and closed the door.
Stephen: What do you want to do?
Duffy: Do you have time... I want to sit down and talk with you.
Stephen: What are you talking about?
Duffy: I think something is very important.
Stephen: If it's important, why don't you call Paul?
Duffy: I want to find you... nothing shameful... Give me a few minutes.
Stephen: I can't talk to you...
Duffy: I know... It will only take you 5 minutes... I'll be waiting for you at the Charge Sports Bar for the next few hours.
Stephen: I can't go, Tom.
Duffy: There won't be anyone else... I want to show you something.
The phone was disconnected. Stephen sat there for a while, picked up his phone and started dialing... was transferred to the message box.
Stephen: Paul, call me back as soon as possible...something important.
Stephen hung up the phone and sat quietly for a while.
Interior view, Stephen rented a car, charging outside the sports bar. Later
Stephen was sitting in the car. He looked at the entrance of the bar to make sure that there was no one else.
Interior view, Cincinnati, Charge Sports Bar, later
this bar is very shabby. The furnishings are very simple...Formica table, cheap iron frame chair. There was no one else but Tom and Stephen sitting at the bar.
Duffy: You followed the wrong person.
Stephen: You are the one who followed the wrong person.
Duffy: On the contrary, you are the wrong person. You have special abilities.
Stephen: So what?
Duffy: Yeah, what exactly is it? It can't be said to be charm. More than this. You have a certain quality that attracts others. All reporters like you, including those who hate you. You teased them in the palm of your hand. It seems effortless. We all know how much effort it actually takes, always be vigilant, and weigh every word and action carefully. But on the surface, you are so relaxed. Everyone is afraid that you love you because you don't understand how you did it. Nothing in this business is more valuable than this—the ability to make people mistake their fears for love, thereby earning their respect. Can you guess what I am going to say next.
Stephen: No... I can't guess.
Duffy: I hope you join us.
Stephen: You fool me.
Duffy: Not at all. (Pause) You will lose Ohio.
Stephen: No.
Duffy: Do you think that the two polls lead by 6 percentage points and you win... 6 percentage points of the Democratic Party.
Stephen: Eight.
Duffy: Six...but that’s okay...no party and Republicans can also vote for the Democrats.
Stephen: Do you think they like your people? ...Support abortion...freedom of taxation and spending?
Duffy: No, they hate him... they don't take him seriously... but they don't worry about your people... tomorrow morning you will witness a lightning attack... Rush Limburg, Sean Hannedy, all right-wingers’ blogs will have "Get Out of the Campaign" content...it's already started...All conservatives in Ohio will line up to vote for my people...Ohio is ours... The polls are meaningless... so I hope you can deal with the follow-up, we will summon the media...
they look at each other.
Duffy (continued): By the way...we have already wooed Thompson.
Stephen: I'm sure he is on our side.
Duffy: We promised him the position of Secretary of State. The battle in Ohio is over... It ended a few weeks ago... With Thompson's representative vote... I'm already planning the next stop... So I I need you... I will make you soar.
Stephen: I can't do that.
Duffy: I didn't let you decide now.
Stephen: I was tricked, but I don’t need that anymore... Do you know why? Because I chose Morris!
Duffy: It has nothing to do with the democratic process, Steve, let your people into the White House. It's that simple.
Stephen: This is a trick played by the Republicans.
Duffy: You are right. The Republican Party is like this. We have to learn from them. They are more mean, tough and disciplined than us. I have been doing this for 25 years, and I have seen too many Democrats fail because of their pretensions.
Stephen: Paul is my friend.
Duffy: Do you want to work for a friend or for the president? Think about it... you have my number.
Duffy got up and left.
Location, Charge Sports Bar/Car hired by Paul/Residential Street
Stephen got into his car. He dialed Paul's phone. Paul is driving in North Carolina.
The shots are cut alternately.
Stephen: Paul.
Paul (outside the picture): They don't do hymenone, do they?
Stephen: As far as I know, no. What happened to Thompson?
Paul: He speaks loudly, we will talk about it...what is so urgent?
Stephen: It's okay... it's okay.
Paul (outside the picture): Okay...Call me if you have any problems. I will go to Washington tomorrow and come back at night.
Stephen: Okay... I'm looking for Anmimenone.
Paul (outside the picture): Good job.
Stephen hung up the phone and stood in silence.
Interior view, hotel room, Cincinnati, night
in the bathroom of the hotel room. Governor Morris is putting on makeup for Charlie Rose's show. A special agent stood in the next room. The governor was talking to the female makeup artist, and Stephen and Ben also appeared in the next room.
Stephen (to Ben): Go online to see if there is any rumors on the blog.
Ben: What kind of rumors? It has always been.
Stephen: I don't know... just go and see what you're talking about.
Ben: Wait a minute...
He is typing on the laptop.
The governor who had been talking yelled at them.
Governor Morris: Stephen... you're still single, right?
Stephen: I dedicated my life to the election, Mr. Governor.
Governor Morris: Good answer. (To the female makeup artist) He dedicated his life to the campaign.
Ben (looking at his computer): The Wall Street Journal poll showed that our votes remained unchanged, and Pullman lost a percentage point.
Stephen: Really? When did they do the polls? Mr. Governor... The Wall Street Journal data came out... Pullman dropped a point.
Governor Morris: It seems that our strategy is right. Ben, are you still single?
Ben: I dedicated myself to running, Mr. Governor.
Governor Morris (to female makeup artist): Good team.
The governor began to sing "The Best Is Yet to Come".
Stephen (to Ben): Make sure that Charlie Rose has the latest data before the show starts...
Ben (stands up): I'll get it.
Stephen: Get a copy of the show before leaving...
Interior view, hotel conference room. A few minutes later, the
room was set up as an interview site.
The interview between Charlie Rose and Governor Morris is being broadcast live ---
Governor Morris: Was this a difficult decision? I believe so... will I do this? No...but I don't think that myself...or anyone...especially a government can interfere with how a woman treats her body.
Charlie Rose: So you will appoint a judge...
Governor Morris:...I think it is arrogant to try others without empathy.
Charlie Rose: But you are against the death penalty?
Governor Morris: Yes, because it shows what kind of society we are.
Charlie Rose: Suppose, Mr. Governor, this is your wife...
Governor Morris: She was murdered, what would I do.
Charlie Rose: It becomes complicated when it becomes a personal matter.
Governor Morris: Of course... If I can find him, I will find a way to kill him.
Charlie Rose: In other words, you, Mr. Governor, can execute the death penalty.
Governor Morris: No, I am willing to go to jail for the crimes I committed.
Charlie Rose: Then why not let society do this.
Governor Morris: Because society must do better than individuals. If I let society do this, I would be wrong.
Charlie Rose: What about gun control?
Governor Morris: Is it time to insert ads?
They all laughed.
Charlie Rose: This is a public radio station. We have no ads...
Governor Morris: It's a shame.
Interior view, motor hotel, Kentucky, at night
this is by the Ohio River in Kentucky. All the interns live here.
In the hotel bar, Stephen and Molly sat at a table opposite each other, and they were drinking happily.
Stephen: Where have you been since Iowa?
Molly: California, Democratic election.
Stephen: I had to go to New York.
Molly: I know... your side was really hot at the time.
Stephen: Yeah. Why go to politics?
Molly: Because of the good treatment.
Stephen: I don't think it suits you well.
Molly: Jack Stearns is my dad.
Pause.
Stephen: He is a good man.
Molly: He is a bastard, but he is your boss.
Stephen: He is not my boss. He is the chairman of the Democratic National Committee.
Molly: You don't work for the Democratic National Committee?
Stephen: I work for Paul and Paul works for Morris. If Morris wins, he will be your father's boss.
Molly: Don't tell my dad this.
Stephen: I can't tell your father a lot of things.
Molly: Never.
Stephen: When will you go to work tomorrow?
Molly: 9 o'clock... I want to teach other new interns how to set up automatic voice calls... Look... I am a senior intern.
Stephen: I can see...
Molly: How old are you?
Stephen: How old do you think I am?
Molly: 30?
Stephen: Do you think I am 30 years old?
Molly: Sorry, how old are you?
Stephen: 30...what about you?
Molly: How old do you think I am?
Stephen: 21?
Molly: 20.
Stephen: Very young.
Molly: Not enough to sleep with a 30-year-old?
Stephen: Each state has different laws. In your hotel, in Kentucky... This is not approved... but after crossing the bridge to Ohio...
Molly: Where is your hotel?
Stephen: Yeah. Surprisingly, their youth protection laws are very lax...
Molly: Do you have a car? I don't have a car.
Stephen: I came by taxi.
Molly: I have the key to the campaign bus... the
two smiled.
Location, Millennium Hotel, Cincinnati, a few minutes after
Morris's campaign bus parked askew, a tire ride the curbs in front of the hotel.
Interior view, Millennium Hotel, Stephen's room. In the morning
Stephen is pacing back and forth in front of the TV on his mobile phone, and news programs are playing on the TV.
Molly was lying on the bed-covered with sheets, she just woke up.
Chris Matthews (on TV): To be fair, this has happened...as Rush Limburg said, it was a chaotic campaign, a Democrat that Republicans thought could be defeated in the general election. We asked Senator Pullman’s campaign agent whether he would accept such sudden right-wing support...
a video of the cut Daffy.
Duffy (outside the picture): Is their vote critical...Of course not...We believe that there is a certain error in the polls. Congressmen will win Ohio...As long as there are Ohio Democrats...I don't think Republicans will vote To our candidates... In short, we will try our best to win all the support.
Stephen (on the phone): When will Paul land? ...Damn...who shall we talk to about voting? ...No...I just...I just need to canvass votes among non-partisan and right-wing people.
Molly: Do you want me to leave?
He motioned to her to wait.
Stephen: Listen, connect me... What is the name of that guy in the Wall Street Journal? ...Yes...
he whispered to her.
Stephen: Wait.
Then talk on the phone.
Stephen (continued): Okay... Adler... put me through his phone.
Molly: Steve?
She began to dress.
Stephen: Molly, wait for me... I want to tell you something.
Molly: We can talk about it later...
Stephen raised his index finger.
Stephen (to the phone) What? No one...the cleaning lady...listen, Ben...you must contact him to find a way. We stick to our usual position...Yes...No...Don't say that...Find him and call me...I'll take care of it...Okay.
He hung up the phone.
Stephen (continued): I'm sorry.
Molly: Cleaning lady.
Stephen: What?
Molly: You said I was a cleaning lady.
Stephen: You are not angry because of this, are you?
Molly: No, why should I be angry.
Stop for a while.
Molly is watching TV.
Molly (continued): Look.
Stephen looked at the TV, and Chris was still talking.
Chris Matthews: I interviewed Jack Stearns, the chairman of the Democratic National Committee, and he said so...
Jack Stearns: I know you are waiting for a response, but this way, we have Two very good candidates are inseparable...Tonight, voters will decide who can better represent the party.
Chris Matthews: I understand what Jack meant---but will things like this ruin your plans for this year?
The camera returns to Stephen.
Stephen: Your father is indeed a bastard.
Molly: I will tell him what you said.
Stephen: Tell him.
Molly: What do you say you want to talk to me?
Stephen: Yes, I just want to... I just want to figure out... Don't get me wrong.
Molly: I won't tell anyone what happened last night.
Stephen: Okay, I hope we can be tight-lipped... I mean, you know those short-lived ones.
Molly: Yeah, it's not a glorious thing to get an intern.
Stephen: It’s not that I’m drunk and messy... I mean... I do it from the heart... I really like you... You are smart... But I... I don’t want you to expect anything...
Molly: Steve, you don't need to say anything.
Stephen: I don't want you to think I am a playboy.
Molly: You are a playboy, but it doesn't matter.
Stephen: No, I am not. I am very polite.
Molly helped Stephen tie a tie.
Molly: Damn... you are seduce me.
Stephen: I don't have one.
Molly: You are too explicit.
Stephen: Really?
Molly: Absolutely.
Stephen: I thought I didn't show any traces of what I did.
Molly: You are quite proactive.
Stephen: You took the initiative...invite me to the bar.
Molly: Well... I have been following you for a while.
Stephen: Wow.
Molly: Am I pretty slutty?
Stephen: No, not at all... I mean I admire you unconsciously.
Molly: That's good.
Stephen: You don't know how to wear a tie at all, do you...
Molly: Yeah, not at all.
Stephen: You are very mature.
Molly: For the young man.
Molly kissed him and left.
Location, Lunken Airport, Cincinnati, later the
camera alternately cuts the scene of Paul driving.
Stephen walked to a private jet plane, and the governor was talking to some assistants by the plane.
Stephen: When will you come back?
Paul: I'll be there...it'll be a little bit later...this bunch of craps...what a fucking bastard.
Stephen: What's the matter with Thompson?
Paul: It's okay, bastard...We've got him...Dog bastard...How bad is it?
Stephen: I'm counting some numbers... I don't know yet...
Paul: Well, I will be there in 3 hours... I need exact numbers... and a strategy.
Stephen: Okay, I'm dealing with it... I have to go.
He hung up the phone.
Interior view, the
governor of the private jet and Stephen are flying in strong air currents, and the cabins are all sealed. Also on the plane were Ben and a special agent. Stephen firmly grasped the armrest of the seat, and the governor looked at him.
Governor Morris: Are you okay?
Stephen: It's okay... I'm thinking where we should stop.
Governor Morris: I think the weather has the final say, if we can get there.
Both men leaned on the headrests of the seats.
Stephen: We will be fine... we have to do this... this is the right thing. Doing the right thing will not suffer bad luck.
Governor Morris: Is this your personal theory... I can find the flaw... A humanitarian flight by Roberto Clement...
Stephen: There are exceptions to every rule...
they laughed. The governor looked at Stephen.
Governor Morris: How are we now?
Stephen: Very good.
Governor Morris: No, I mean... how about the campaign?
Stephen: It went well...
Governor Morris: Listen, Stephen... You are not Paul. I hired him to hear him say "very smoothly". I hired you to hear the truth.
Stephen: I think we are indestructible.
Governor Morris: Okay, Paul.
Stephen: Mr. Governor, there is a big difference between Paul and I. Paul only believes in victory, so what he does and says is to win.
Governor Morris: But you won't.
Stephen: What I do or say is what I believe... and I am sure.
Governor Morris: When you quit this job, you become a bad consultant.
Stephen: As long as you are here, I will not quit.
Governor Morris: So you have at most 8 years... Then you will die in a small consulting company at Farrag North Station... Eat and drink on Palm Island... Make $700,000 a year... Sell the senators to Saudi Arabia Prince.
They all laughed.
Stephen: It also sells former presidents...
Governor Morris: Then I will win...
Stephen: Yeah.
Interior view, Kent State University, Ohio. Later
we were in a hall. Governor Morris stood in front of a huge American flag on the stage. Wife Cindy and their 7-year-old daughter Beth are on the side of the stage.
Governor Morris is giving a speech.
Governor Morris: I have been married for a year, and my wife is the wisest person I know... Our marriage is ordinary... We will also have disputes... She wins. What we do not disagree about is what kind of living environment we should create for our daughter. Will we make this world better or worse? The richest man in this country does not take the responsibility for fairness. When they were asked to do this, they cried out that you would engage in socialism, using words like "redistribution of wealth." So everyone was intimidated, they all ran away and then went into hiding. Solemnly declare that I strongly oppose the US government's attack on the wealth of the richest people! I will work hard for this!
Interior shot, Kent State University, backstage, continuous footage
Paul and Stephen standing in the backstage. Can hear the governor's speech coming from the background.
Stephen: I don't think so.
Paul: Wow...
Stephen: I should have told you yesterday... I'm sorry...
Paul: Don't worry.
Stephen: I met Tom Duffy yesterday.
Paul: What?
Stephen: You were on the plane, he called me and asked me to meet... I asked him why... He said it was important, so I went... But I should tell you...
Paul: Wait, Let me figure this out. Did you meet Tom Duffy?
Stephen: Yes.
Paul: What does he want to do, Stephen?
Stephen: The effect is that he wants to hire me. He wants me to quit and work for him...it's bad, Paul. He showed me the results of the poll that Pullman was four points ahead. We were in big trouble, and he launched the whole plan. Voice calls, traffic jams, hype, and damn Thompson. They promised his position as secretary of state.
Interior view, Kent State University, front desk, continuous footage
Governor Morris: Do you know how to fight terrorism? ...Stop relying on their commodity, which is oil, resist oil, and they will slip away. We don’t need bombs, and we don’t need aggression!
Interior shot, Kent State University, backstage, continuous camera
Paul: If this is true — I mean to say — my blood pressure has soared over the roof.
Stephen: Paul, I'm sorry. Trust me... I didn't expect it to be true.
Paul: It doesn't matter what you think. The key is what you did and did not do. If these are true, I would be a fool in front of Thompson. I also leaked our plan.
Stephen: Believe me, I really thought you had won Thompson. I didn't realize the problem. I know this is not an excuse, I'm sorry.
Paul: Let me think about it... Let me think about it...
Interior view, Kent State University, front desk, continuous footage.
Governor Morris: If I were the president, the first thing I would do after taking office would be within 10 years of my tenure... …The United States does not allow another fuel-powered car to be produced. There will be thousands of new jobs...We will start another technological revolution, and we will lead the world again...Just like we were before...
Interior view, Kent State University, backstage, camera Continuous
Paul: When the governor's impassionedness is over, I will find him and tell him all about the situation.
Stephen: Who do you need...
Paul: You, me and the governor, that's it. What activities will he have afterwards?
Stephen: A fundraiser in Cleveland tonight.
Paul: He can only be late...We will tell him that if he doesn't give Thompson a cabinet position...he won't be appointed.
Stephen: Will he compromise?
Paul: I don't know, Stephen.
Paul threw a word back as he left.
Paul (continued): Find us a room...
Interior view, Kent State University, lounge
Molly went upstairs from the auditorium to the lounge, a staff member handed her a stack of papers, and she continued to walk forward. Pulled behind the camera, she walked across the corridor to the door of a rehearsal room. She handed the file to Ben.
The governor’s wife Cindy, daughter Beth, and a security guard were waiting outside.
Interior view, Kent State University,
Governor Morris in the rehearsal room : How reliable is the data?
Stephen: We might still be able to fight for a few points... but we... I don't know, we still lost three or four points.
Paul: Who knows, Mr. Governor... But we can't take it lightly...
Governor Morris: What do you think?
Paul: I think we end here in Ohio...accept the defeat and shirking it to the Republican Party...and go straight to North Carolina.
Governor Morris: I can't escape from Ohio... They will kill us.
Paul: Unless you get the support of Thompson.
Governor Morris: I would not do this. What if he asked to be the Director of the Food and Drug Administration or some other absurd request?
Stephen: Cabinet position.
Governor Morris: Secretary of Labor?
Stephen: Secretary of State...
They were silent for a while after these words.
Governor Morris: Are you kidding...Let me give the post of Secretary of State to a guy who wants all ten floors above the UN headquarters to disappear? Paul, I said at the beginning of the campaign that I would not do such a deal.
Paul: Governor, if you lose Ohio and they get Thompson's representative vote...then they can get North Carolina...they are ahead, we can't reverse the lead. But if we give up Ohio, get Thompson's vote, and give him a cabinet position, then we can win North Carolina, his state. Then there is Pennsylvania, your state. This is a simple math problem, Mike. With his support, the game is over.
Governor Morris: Paul, I respect you...respect your opinion...but I will never do this...I suggest that we find a way to win in Ohio.
They all sat looking at their shoes.
Governor Morris (continued): Is there anything else?
Interior view, Morris campaign headquarters, Cincinnati, evening
Nervous and busy. Everyone is there. Phone... Mail... People coming in and out. Stephen, Ben, Molly... all rolled their sleeves. Paul is in a room with the door closed and we can see him on the phone.
Stephen (on the phone): Are there any other senators we can help? The House of Representatives can't.
Ben (speaking to him in a whisper): Or a member of Congress from Ohio.
Stephen: Okay...but we need a senator...Ohio's best.
The camera pushed across the room and approached Paul.
Molly (to Stephen): This is all the car rental companies in Northern Ohio... They have already ordered all the vans on Tuesday...
Stephen: Damn... Jace, I'll call you again... (To Molly )all? Fuck!
Ben (looking at the computer): At the moment I only know these...no party does not seem to be interested, but the Republican Party has shown...or expressed that they are interested.
Stephen: They won't tell pollsters that they will vote for the Democrats... I don't know how to look at these polling data.
Molly: I called. We can get hundreds of trucks from Covington and Newport, Kentucky.
Stephen: We don't need trucks... We just don't want Pullman to get them... The
camera continues to advance towards Paul until we hear him talking to a reporter on the phone. He was talking while typing on the computer.
Paul: No, no, I didn’t mean that...we were at a disadvantage before this, and we are still so...the numbers...we know the closer to Tuesday the closer the votes...I’m not lowering expectations...you I heard that we have won Ohio? ...At least do me a favor and write what I just said into your column.
Exterior view, the governor's SUV. At night,
we saw the SUV coming from the highway.
Interior view, the governor's SUV, the night
camera faces the rear seats of the SUV. Cindy leaned on the governor's shoulder. They snuggled up comfortably and easily. The governor is writing a speech in a notebook.
Cindy: What are you writing?
Governor Morris: One of the greatest lectures on hydrogen energy.
Cindy: This is simply too challenging.
Governor Morris: Of course I know.
Cindy: Mitchell's wife asked me to invite you to the luncheon of her "Product of the American Revolution".
Governor Morris: Who is Mitchell?
Cindy: Member of Congress for District 1. You better remember it.
Governor Morris: Damn congressman, can you imagine that you have to remember it again in two years?
Cindy: I know it's not easy, try harder.
Governor Morris: Hold on for another 4 years.
Cindy: Exactly.
Governor Morris: Okay.
after awhile.
Cindy: Do you think we will lose Ohio?
Governor Morris: I don't know.
Cindy: If you get Thompson's representative ticket, the game is over. Ohio is not important anymore.
Governor Morris: Did Paul do your job?
Cindy (shaking his head): Stephen.
Governor Morris (smiling): They are all good.
Cindy: Is Thompson hateful?
Governor Morris: He is a bastard.
Cindy: Worse than Pullman?
Governor Morris: Yes.
Stop for a while.
Governor Morris (continued): Every time I set myself a bottom line... but it keeps changing. Fundraising, alliance transactions...none of my intentions...and negative publicity opponents...not this time. Thompson is absolutely no good.
Stop for a while.
Governor Morris (continued): Tell Mrs. Mitchell that I will attend her luncheon.
Stop for a while.
Governor Morris (continued): Let the old ladies touch my head.
They laughed.
Cindy: You have nice hair.
Governor Morris: So are you, dear.
They leaned back on the headrests.
Interior view, performing arts building, Dayton Community College, and later in
a theater, hundreds of students were sitting around the governor, he was answering questions.
Morris was answering a question from a conservative student.
Student 1: Gay marriage?
Governor Morris: This is a stupid argument.
Student 1: Not for half of Americans.
Governor Morris: Those over 50.
Student 1: They are the ones who voted...the ones who appeared at the ballot.
Governor Morris: That's different... I hope we have the positioning of this topic...
At this time, the camera comes to the background, Stephen, Ben, Paul and Molly are busy with their mobile phones or computers.
Paul (to Stephen): Look at the governor.
Stephen (to Ben): Tell me what's going on outside.
Stephen (continued): I see.
Ben took us back to the front desk, and in the process we heard the debate between the governor and the students continue.
Student 1: From...a religion...well
Governor Morris: From a religious issue to a civil rights issue.
Student 1: But gender and race are very different.
Governor Morris: Not at all. Marriage between races was once forbidden...Women can't vote...There are many more examples...
Student 1: Of course this topic -
we heard boos from the student audience. At this time, the camera was aimed at Morris, and he motioned to the students to be quiet.
Governor Morris: Wait, listen to what she says...
Student 1: The problem is that men and women can be different, but equal, not race.
Governor Morris: Why?
Student 1: Public toilets are divided into men and women, but if there are races, it is illegal.
Governor Morris: That being the case.
Student 1 (laughs): Yes, that is the case.
The audience laughed.
Governor Morris: This is what I want to say.
Interior view, the lobby of the Performing Arts Building, after which
Stephen, Ben and others walked out of the lobby and boarded the bus.
Stephen: When will it air this evening?
Ben: 9 o'clock.
Stephen: How did he perform?
Ben: Very good.
The camera cuts to:
location, campaign bus, night
bus driving on the highway.
The interior scene, the campaign bus, the night is
busy. Stephen, Ben, Molly, and other staff were all talking on the phone or typing on the computer. Molly turned to look at Stephen, his face illuminated by the laptop. He lifted his face...they met.
Interior view, Millennium Hotel, Stephen's room, night
TV is broadcasting the previously recorded town hall meeting. Pulling behind the camera, Stephen and Molly appear who are having sex. Part of their body. Hand...one leg...spreaded hair...this is a scene often seen in love movies in the 1970s, and the fluorescent lights of the TV flicker. The only thing we can hear is the sound from the TV.
Governor Morris: Our discussion of this issue is based on the premise that we believe that homosexuality is a choice. You choose to be a homosexual, rather than being gay as you were born black. Because the point you hold when discussing this issue is that homosexuality is not a life choice, but is determined by genes, so gay marriage is and can only be a civil rights issue.
The other student walked towards the microphone.
Student 2: Do you think straightforwardness is your personal charm? Is this your trump card?
Governor Morris: Check it out. Someone will always vote for me.
Student 2: I heard that many of the cars convened by Christians have started.
Pull back the lens to focus on Stephen and Molly.
Stephen lay on Molly and didn't move.
He looked underneath himself... then back to Molly.
Stephen: It's not because of you.
They laughed.
Interior view, hotel, Stephen's room, night, later
Stephen lay in bed and read some documents. Molly slept next to him. Stephen's cell phone rang.
Stephen: Hi...
At the same time, another man's voice on the phone.
Man: Molly?
They were all stunned. No one speaks. Stephen was about to speak again, and the phone had already been hung up over there. Stephen looked at the phone... and then he saw the same phone on the bedside table, that was his phone. He answered Molly's call by mistake. He checked the name of the caller... No... He checked the number... He looked at his watch... 2:30 in the morning.
Stephen: Your cell phone rang.
Molly: Really?
Stephen: Who called you at 2:30 in the morning?
Molly: I don't know.
Stephen: He called your name directly.
Molly: Did you answer the phone?
Stephen: I thought it was mine. Who called?
Molly: I don't know...
Stephen: Another drunk intern is looking for you?
Molly (laughs): This has never happened... Let me see the number...
She reached for the phone, but Stephen took it away.
Stephen: Wait...
Molly (want to get it): Stephen...
Stephen: I'll call back.
He pressed the dial button.
Molly: No!
Stephen: ...I will call myself your father.
Molly: Give me the phone, Stephen!
Stephen: I told him I would go to him with a shotgun...
Molly (more anxious): Don't do this, Stephen... Hang up!
Stephen looked at Molly while listening to the dial tone...Her eyes were pleading.
There was a buzzing sound on the phone. Then it was Stephen's expression after he heard who was on the other end of the phone.
He hung up without a word.
Pause.
Stephen: Why did the governor call you at 2:30 in the morning?
Molly did not speak.
Stephen (continued): Why did the governor call you?
Molly: I'm in trouble...
Stephen: And the governor? What happened?
Molly: I’m doing campaign promotion in Iowa... We have a party in Ben’s room after Des Moines has drawn votes...
Stephen: There is a party where you... and Ben... and the governor both attended .
Molly: No, he is not here.
Stephen: Where is he?
Molly: I sent him a copy of the poll data...
Stephen: After the party?
Molly (nodding): About 12 o'clock... I was in the hall with him... talking... for a long time... Then he hugged me from behind and closed the door.
Stephen: Damn it... are you drunk?
Molly: Not so drunk...
Stephen: How many times?
Molly: Just that time.
Stephen: Does anyone know? Has anyone seen it?
Molly: No.
Stephen: How do you know?
Molly: I know!
Stephen: Then why is he calling you now?
Molly: I'll call him first.
Stephen: Why?
Molly: Because I don't know who to call... I need 900 yuan...
Stephen: What is it for?
Molly: I can't find my father... We are Catholics.
Pause.
Molly (continued): What should I do?
A long silence.
Exterior, street, Cincinnati, the next day,
a close-up shot of Stephen in the morning , he walked from the sidewalk to...
Interior, Morris campaign headquarters, in the morning,
Stephen walked into the campaign office continuously . There are Morris posters everywhere. Everyone who passed by greeted him.
Everything has changed. The smile on Morris's face looked hypocritical. He saw Molly on the way into the war room.
Interior scene, Morris campaigned for headquarters. Later
Stephen turned through the drawer of his desk... He walked to the office door, opened the door and shouted at Ben in the big room.
Stephen: Ben... come here.
Ben stopped his work and walked to Stephen's office.
Ben: What's the matter?
Stephen: How much small capital can we use at most?
Ben: It should be 500, what do you do?
Stephen: Give me as much as you have.
Ben: Are you okay? ...Can I help?
Stephen: Yes...just don't keep it in the account.
Ben: How should I remember?
Stephen: Don't remember anything...
Ben: I have to write it down if it's over a hundred dollars...
Stephen (raised his voice): Do it!
Ben left the office.
Ben walked into the big office, and the unknown people looked up... Molly looked at Ben, and then at Stephen who was closing the door. The camera follows Molly.
We saw Molly looking towards Stephen's office... Stephen opened the door.
Stephen (continued): Molly...
She stood up and walked to the office. Stephen handed Molly a post-it note, and he wrote on it.
Stephen (continued):
Received the note to... Molly, and saw "Waiting for me in the stairwell at noon". She folded the note paper.
Molly: Okay.
Stephen stretched out his hand.
Stephen: Give it back to me. never mind.
He took the post-it note, and when Molly left, he tore it into several pieces... threw it in the trash can.
Interior view, bank, Cincinnati. Later
Stephen at the counter exchanged a check with a limit of 800 for cash, and the cashier handed him the cash.
Stephen walked out of the bank.
Location, bank steps, the camera continues
Stephen walks onto the sidewalk. He and Ada were on the phone.
Ida: Steve... a bit of
news ... Stephen: I can't tell you about North Carolina.
Ada: That's not what I want to ask you.
Stephen: What do you want to know?
Ada: You met Duffy.
Pause.
Stephen: Who told you?
Ada: A little bird.
Stephen: Who?
Ada: Did you see him?
Stephen: Where are you?
Interior, pedestrian bridges, Cincinnati, a few minutes after
Ida: I know you met with him two days ago in a small bar in Cincinnati, just before the press conference. Duffy ordered Buffalo Chicken Wings.
Stephen: Duffy told you?
Ada: Anonymous. What happened to Duffy?
Stephen: I treat you as a friend, Ada. How could you stabb me in the back like this? You will ruin my reputation————
Ada: Wait, wait — you think so? We are friends?
Stephen: I gave you all the information - all the exclusive news, about Paul's whereabouts...
Ada: You are right - you told me many things. To be honest, Steve. You are so good to me because I work for The Times, not because I am your friend. You give me what I want, and I write you better. Don't pretend that there is a further relationship. Why do you want to meet Duffy?
Stephen: Go to hell.
Stephen left.
Ada: Okay, I don't make it difficult for you. Forget about Duffy, how did Paul and Thompson meet?
Stephen (pauses): Could you please keep your voice down? Do you know how this will affect me?
Ada: May be fired. So it's not hard to choose, is it? I will deadline at 3 tomorrow afternoon. You can make a decision until then.
Stephen was left there alone.
Location, Fountain Square, Cincinnati / interior, Memorial Hall, a few minutes after
Stephen dialing a public phone in front of a fountain. Duffy answered his cell phone at the canvassing event.
Stephen: You bastard.
Duffy: What?
Stephen: You put the message.
Duffy: What news?
Stephen: Don't pretend to me, Tom.
Duffy: Who is pretending... I don't know what you are talking about.
Stephen: I just met Ida Horowitz.
Duffy: What's wrong?
Stephen: She threatened me to expose it.
Duffy: What's the matter?
Stephen: What happened when we met! My fucking meeting with you!
Duffy: How did she know?
Stephen: Don't be foolish, Tom.
Duffy: Do you think it was my message to her?
Stephen: Who else?
Duffy: I didn't do that.
Stephen: It's definitely not me, only you are left.
Duffy: What does she know?
Stephen: She knows everything you told her.
Duffy: I swear to God I didn't tell her. Like you, I don't want this to be exposed.
Stephen: It's too late.
Duffy: What did she tell you.
Stephen: She knows when we meet, when we meet... and you ordered Buffalo Chicken Wings.
Duffy: Does she have sources of intelligence?
Stephen: Yes, she has sources of intelligence.
Duffy: You have no idea what the source is?
Stephen: I know, it's you.
Duffy: It's not me, and I don't order spicy chicken wings either. There must be someone else.
Stephen: Did you tell anyone?
Duffy: No, how about you?
Stephen: No.
Duffy: Do you admit that we met?
Stephen: No.
Duffy: We don't admit it, and she can't help it.
Stephen: She would leak the news to Zhuoqi.com, or "Ranking News"... or something.
Duffy: You can't stop her?
Stephen: She's blackmailing me—want to know about Thompson.
Duffy: Then tell her.
Stephen: I can't tell her.
Duffy: You can't let her let this matter out.
Stephen: I will not accept blackmail, Tom.
Duffy: You don't have much choice.
Stephen: If I tell her about Thompson, I will say that he has been on your side.
Duffy: Then tell her. If someone calls me and asks me, I can handle it.
Stephen: No way. Paul told him that we had done Thompson. It will make us like fools.
Duffy: Anyway, when he votes for us, you will be like fools.
Stephen: I can't do this.
Duffy: You are on a sunken ship, Steve. Tell her what she wants to know, and then quit. Come to our side, we can control the situation.
Stop for a while.
Stephen did not answer.
Duffy (continued): Steve?
Stephen: I have to go now.
Stephen hung up.
Interior view, Morris campaign headquarters, stairwell,
Molly comes in this afternoon ... It's dark... She didn't see anyone. She stood there... and heard Stephen talking in the dark.
Stephen: I'm on it.
Molly (surprised): You startled me.
She went up the stairs and came to him.
Stephen: Take this.
He handed her an envelope.
Stephen (continued): Almost 1800...you make an appointment now...today...using a public phone...I will take you to the clinic and then pick you up...Don't let others know...understand?
Molly: I know.
Stephen: Use the remaining money to buy a ticket to go home... You can't stay... We can't afford to lose... Next week is the key. Can't let this happen.
Molly: You mean I can't be here anymore.
Stephen: That's right.
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