text / (Canada) Sarah Polley
translation / Ji Xiaoqian
1. Location, a depressing and deserted neighborhood, in February 2005
Grant, over seventy years old, still looks handsome and has bright eyes. He was driving down a suburban-looking street in the slums of a small Ontario town. Checking the address on the seat next to him, he glanced at the house he drove by. Most are rental properties. Some courtyards have marked driveways, windows with tin foil or faded flags. He found the address he was looking for. A small house on a quiet street. He pulled into the driveway. The house, while also modest, has received far more attention. Just planted flowers. He stopped for a moment. Staring at the house. Take a deep breath.
2. The Pier, Summer 1961, Daytime
Memories of Grant: A Beautiful Girl of Eighteen. She leaned against the pier railing overlooking the Great Lake. Slanting wind and drizzle, coolness hits people. Her blond hair was blown against her cheeks by the wind. She is confident and strong. She smiled and looked directly at us. She shouted into the wind, her eyes twinkling. We couldn't hear what she was saying. What we heard was the voice of a man in his seventies.
Grant (voice-over) She said, "Do you think—do you think it would be fun if we got married?"
came the voice of a younger woman.
Christy (off-screen): How did you answer that?
Grant: I see what she means. I yelled "OK".
The eighteen-year-old girl smiled sweetly. She turned away and looked happily at the lake.
Grant (voice-over): I never thought about leaving her. She has the vitality of life.
She looked back at us, looking directly into our eyes.
Her face melted into snowboard marks on the white snow.
"The Harvest Moon" by Neil Young plays on the tape.
3. EXTERNAL, Anderson's Farmhouse, January 2003, at a wonderful twilight
Aerial view of the snow-capped frozen lake. Two skiers flit across the screen. We trace in the opposite direction. until where they came from.
Grant (voice-over): After many winters, her hair went from light gold to silver. That's it. I didn't even notice when this change started.
The credits roll on snowboard tracks as we retrace. We came to a farmhouse with warm lights. The farmhouse is old, big, but not luxurious. We paused here and walked around their estate. We saw Fiona and Grant Anderson ski side by side on their land. Grant was in his early seventies, and Fiona was in her sixties. They are both beautiful and sexy, with humor in their eyes. We recognize Fiona as the beautiful teenage girl we saw in the opening sequence. She is elegant, light, and smart. As if always secretly enjoying a private joke. They skied side by side, glancing at each other from time to time, panting.
(cut to)
3A. EXTERIOR, OBSERVATION DECK, at night
they stand on the observation deck by the lake, gazing at the sunset over the frozen lake. They were silent and fascinated.
(Cut to)
3B. EXTERIOR, OBSERVATION DECK,
NIGHT Close-up of Grant and Fiona's fingers. Remove the skis from the boots.
4. THE ANDERSON'S KITCHEN, JANUARY 2003 - The
farmhouse is warm and cozy at night. The rug was spread randomly on the floor. The ring cup rests on a varnished table top. Both Fiona and Grant dress tastefully. They prepare dinner together. There is a relaxed atmosphere to spend at home. Grant chops vegetables and Fiona takes care of the stove. They don't talk much. He walked around her, poured the vegetables into the pan, put his arms around her waist, and surreptitiously removed the scraper she had left on the worktop.
Fiona: Watch out.
He hid the scraper behind him. She turned to look at him, his actions could not hide her.
Fiona: Give it to me.
He didn't move. She rubbed his hair and walked out the door.
Fiona: All right. You come to cook.
He smiled and took over her fireside work. We hear the sound of the TV. News clips about the election.
5. INT. Anderson's living room, January 2003,
they are having dinner in the evening. Dinner looks tempting. Although simple, it is carefully cooked.
Fiona: Then they showed a clip of him running. Irrelevant fragments. Apparently he likes to run when he's getting votes.
Grant: There should be context.
She took a sip of wine. He laughed.
Fiona: No. He runs like a goalie.
Grant: Oh, you're such a hockey fan. How does the goalkeeper run? Show me the show.
Fiona made a goalie run and laughed. She took her seat again.
Fiona: Oh, so sad. He wanted to be a good man in the most tiresome way possible.
Grant couldn't help laughing. They paused, then laughed again. She looked at his clothes.
Fiona: Don't you have another shirt?
6. INTERSON'S KITCHEN, JANUARY 2003 -
Fiona and Grant are cleaning the kitchen at night. There was a warm silence between the two. Grant washed the dishes and Fiona dried. Grant glanced tenderly at Fiona from time to time. As if he was on guard against something. She went away to put away the dishes, unaware that he was paying attention to her. For a moment. We watched them do the housework without a word, and she put the dishes in the cupboard. He handed her a frying pan. She stared at the frying pan for a moment. Opened the refrigerator and put the frying pan in it. He heard the refrigerator door opening and turned to look at her. She looked back at him, wondering why. She continued to put the dishes back in their correct positions. He smiled at her. She put the last plate away and left the kitchen, feeling as if she had forgotten something.
Fiona: I'm going to make a fire.
He waited until she was in the other room, and sadly took the frying pan out of the refrigerator and put it in the cupboard.
7. INT. Anderson's living room, January 2003, night
Fiona lay with her head resting on Grant's legs. There was a fire in the fireplace, and the house was neat and comfortable. It was snowing heavily outside, with large tracts of fairy-tale snowflakes. He read a book of poems to her.
GRANT (reading): You climbed ashore and said that's how you touched other women, the lawnmower's wife, the limer's daughter. You fumble with your hands, looking for the missing perfume, knowing...
Fiona strokes his face. interrupted him.
Fiona: Don't worry, honey. I think I'm just gradually losing my memory.
Grant: Shh.
He grabbed her hand and kissed it.
Grant: ...what's good about a daughter who works as a plasterer. Abandoned silently and odorlessly, as if not hearing the whispers of love, full of pain but no happy scars. In the dry air you touched my hands with your belly and said, I am the daughter of a cinnamon peeler. smell me.
She fell asleep to his chanting. He stared at her sleeping for a long time.
8. ANDERSON'S BEDROOM, JANUARY 2003 - NIGHT
Grant strokes Fiona's hair. She smiled affectionately at him. They kiss and make love slowly and peacefully.
SUBTITLE: DIAGNOSIS
9. INT. Anderson's bathroom, January 2003, Night
Grant is urinating. After urinating, he washed his hands and glanced at his image in the mirror. There is a sticky note on the mirror. It read: "7am, yoga. 7:30-7:45, brushing teeth, washing face, combing hair. 7:45-8:15, walking. 8:15, breakfast with Grant." He stretched out Fingers stroked the note, moved by the meticulousness of the note.
10. ANDERSON'S BEDROOM, JANUARY 2003 - NIGHT
Grant goes to bed and lies behind Fiona. He cuddled her from behind, hugged her tightly, kissed her neck.
Grant: So cute.
Fiona: What's cute?
He thought for a moment.
Grant: Nothing.
He looked at her back figure with a hint of guilt and surprise in his heart. He leaned over and kissed her forehead. She smiled charmingly. He turned around and closed his eyes.
11. EXTERNAL, MARIANNE'S HOUSE, FEBRUARY 2005.
Grant is sitting in his car in the morning, as in the opening shot of the film. He got out of the car and knocked on the door of the house. Marianne, a woman in her sixties who still had the charm, opened the door. She held a bouquet of flowers in her hand, as if she was about to put them in a vase. She speaks with a strong American accent.
Marianne: Huh?
Grant: I don't know how to introduce myself. I have met your husband at Caohu Nursing Home. I am a regular there. What beautiful flowers.
We return to this scene over and over again throughout the film, always connecting where we left off.
12. ANDERSON'S LIVING ROOM - JUNE 2003 - Afternoon
Fiona is planting wildflowers and Grant is making drinks. The warm spring sunshine poured into the house.
Grant: I've never seen those white wildflowers before.
Fiona: The soil there must be good for them.
Grant went into the kitchen looking for a spoon to stir the drink. He noticed a new situation. There are sticky notes on every drawer in the kitchen that read: "Utensils, dishcloths, knives." He looked at the note, hesitant to say something. He laughed.
Fiona is busy arranging flowers.
Grant: You just have to remind yourself to open the drawer.
Fiona: What?
He went back to the living room and stood at the door leading to the kitchen.
Grant: Maybe these labels… these lists would backfire. If you don't think about these things when you write your notes, maybe you don't need to remind yourself anymore.
Fiona remained poised. She didn't turn around.
Fiona: As long as we can remember what we have to remember.
She paused to emphasize the effect of the sentence. Then go on easily.
Fiona: I heard a story at a banquet about German soldiers patrolling the Czechoslovakian border during the war. Remember your Czech student? Veronica? We chatted at the banquet.
She casually dropped the sentence. Grant froze in place.
(CUT TO)
12A. INT. 1970s
PARTY Veronica, a radiant young girl, looks at us from the other side of the table.
(CUT BACK TO)
12B. INT. Anderson's living room, June 2003 - Afternoon
Fiona glances at Grant. He remained motionless.
Fiona: Don't be nervous. It's an interesting story.
Now she smiled at him.
Fiona: She told me that every German patrol dog wears a sign that says "dog." why? the Czech asked. The German replied, because it was a dog.
She smiled kindly at him. No threat at all. He held his breath watching her. He breathed a sigh of relief when she left the room. He stared at the note. We flash back quickly:
13. INT, PARTY, 1970s, NIGHT
Grant's Memories: Veronica, a girl of natural beauty, with jet-black hair and sparkling eyes, talking lively at a party, Sneak glances at us from time to time. We see her feet entangling a man's leg under the table.
14. INT. Anderson's living room, June 2003,
the doorbell rings in the evening. Fiona answered the door. Phoebe Hart and William Hart, a couple in their sixties, stood at the door. Fiona hugs Phoebe.
Phoebe: Where did you two go?
William: When Phoebe hadn't played bridge in a while, living with her was a nightmare. You can make a little more phone call, okay?
15. THE LIVING ROOM - NIGHT THEY DRINK IN THE LIVING ROOM
.
Fiona: At least we're waiting together.
William: You wouldn't say that if you were waiting for an organ transplant.
Phoebe (to William) Why do you seem to be a different person all of a sudden? Jesus, you sound like those conservative businessmen who "stand up for Canada".
Fiona (winks at William) Oh, he's not as young as he used to be, Phoebe.
Grant cranked up the fire. His hands were covered in soot.
William: I just think the waiting list is a serious issue and you can't ignore it.
Fiona: I think that's really the problem. I just don't think those who can afford the cost can rank high and those who can't have to wait longer. Oh look, now you're getting me serious and annoying.
Grant looked at his soot-stained fingers. He stood up, passed Fiona, touched her face, and left a jet black fingerprint on her cheek. She looked up at him knowingly. Knowing that there was a mark on her cheek, she resisted laughing. He also tried to hold back his laughter. But not very successful. He sits down.
Fiona: You know what? You are a fool.
Grant: This move works well for you.
Fiona: It's a miracle I actually took him home to meet my parents.
16. INT. LIVING ROOM, JUNE 2003, NIGHT THEY
DINNER.
Fiona: It's a craft show, and you'll be looking around and wondering why the laws of supply and demand would allow so many tassel woven things.
Phoebe: God, they're everywhere. What can you do with them?
Grant: You've made a little thing out of lace, what do you call it, a handy organizer or something.
Phoebe: I don't. Oh wait, I have. Fiona gave it to me.
Fiona: Yes, I did!
Fiona smiled and picked up the bottle.
Fiona: Someone wants a little more...
She was at a loss for words, unable to find the word she wanted to say.
Fiona: A little more...
Grant looked at her, looked at the Harts, and watched their reactions.
Fiona: Investigate.
She frowned, staring at the bottle.
Fiona: Exactly. Just...
Grant: No, but I want some wine.
Phoebe and William stared at her. William broke the silence.
William: Yes. Yes, Fiona, great, just a little more "just".
They laughed. He held the cup towards Fiona. Fiona didn't pour the wine, but stood there thinking. She began to speak, as if to herself.
Fiona: This thing is...
(cut to)
17. DELETE
18. EXTERIOR, LAKE, flashback to sunset, January 2003
Fiona skiing along the shore of the lake at sunset. Her expression was determined and focused. She slowed down gradually. Glide a short distance. Her eyes became hollow and her expression became blank.
Fiona (voice-over): Half the time I'm wandering around is thinking about something that I know is important. But I can't remember what I'm going to recall...Once the thought went away, everything went away. I had to wander around trying to figure out what this previously so important thing was.
(CUT TO)
19. INT. Anderson's living room, June 2003, night
Phoebe and Grant are silent.
Fiona: I think maybe I'm starting to lose my memory.
Phoebe: Oh, Fiona, you've always been an interesting person, haven't you? I mean, remember—you must remember, Grant—remember the year you went to Florida together? Fiona left her fur coat in the dressing room and forgot about it, remember?
Grant: Oh, that wasn't intentional. As if it were a sin you left behind.
Fiona sat back at the table, also to resolve the embarrassment just now.
Fiona: Oh, some people make me feel bad about wearing fur coats.
They laughed. Back to the lighthearted naughty banter. The camera pans, looking out the window, then out to the snow-covered field.
Grant (voice-over): Um... how's your husband doing?
MARIANNE (V.O.): He's fine.
20. EXT. MARIANNE'S HOUSE, FEBRUARY 2005 - AM
Marian is still standing at the door. (We return to this scene again and again throughout the film, picking up where we left off.)
Grant: My wife and he developed a close friendship.
Marianne: I heard that.
Grant: Well, if you have time, I want to talk to you about something.
21. EXT. THE WOODS, APRIL 2003
Grant and Fiona walk side by side in the woods in the evening. They came to a small hollow full of yellow lilies. The flowers are as big as saucers and bloom like flames. Dreamy and unbelievably beautiful. Fiona and Grant looked at each other in surprise. Fiona leaned over to touch a flower.
Fiona stared at the flowers. She looked away, then back again. Close your eyes. Open your eyes again. Grant looked at her inquiringly.
Fiona: When I looked away, I forgot what yellow meant. But I can take another look.
She paused. thinking.
Fiona: Sometimes forgetting is sweet.
Grant was moved.
Fiona: They give off their own heat.
Grant leaned over to feel the flowers.
Fiona: They give off their own heat.
She paused, thinking. She may have said that already. Glancing at Grant, hoping he wasn't paying attention. Grant smiled uneasily.
Grant: I didn't feel it.
Fiona: I think...I think...you should put your hand inside the curled petals and feel the heat of the flower.
She tried it. He looked at her. She raised her eyes and smiled at him. It's a fascinating place, and they're all a little dizzy.
Grant: Is it?
Fiona: I'm not so sure. I'm not quite sure if I'm feeling the heat or just imagining it.
She stood up. The tone became more certain.
Fiona: Heat attracts little bugs.
She walked away.
Fiona: Nature doesn't bother to make fancy decorations.
Grant watched her walk away. Look around at the splendid flowers and admire the images of his wife strolling through the flowers. Then go with her.
22. EXT. Lake Huron Shores, 1960s, November
Grant's Memories: Grant and Fiona are in their early twenties. They walked hand in hand on the shore of the lake. From time to time there are separation stones underfoot. On both sides are steel walls with steps. They went up and down the stairs. Occasionally there were gaps between the steps, and she had to struggle to keep her balance on the narrow separation stone until she reached the next flight of stairs. Grant helps Fiona navigate these gaps. Hold her hand as she balances. Close-up of her feet on the shaky parting stone. The camera rises from her feet to show:
23. EXTERNAL, LAKE HURON SIDE, SUNSET, NOVEMBER 2003
BACK TO THE NOW: Fiona walks on the dividing stones, Grant assisting her as before. Their noses were frozen red, and their breath froze in the air. They do it all silently. Move on without a word. They stopped by the shore and sat on a piece of driftwood.
Fiona: We better get back before dark.
Grant: You think we'll never find our way home after fifty years? Just because it's dark?
She smiled sweetly. Hold his hand. They looked out at the lake.
Grant: We're staying here. Just a little longer.
24. EXTERNAL, Bridges in Paris, Ontario, November 2003, daytime
Grant and Fiona are walking on the bridge. Grant holds the shopping bag.
Grant: Cheese. How about cheese?
Fiona: As long as it's high cholesterol.
They passed a couple of similar age.
Fiona: Lauren, Michael, hello.
The couple nodded nonchalantly. Grant looked disturbed. It seems that there has been a grudge in the past. Fiona sighed.
Fiona: Poor man. poor human beings.
They moved on.
Fiona: Oh, I forgot to get the shopping list.
Grant stopped.
Fiona: No, no. give me the key. You keep going and I will meet you there.
Grant hesitated for a moment. Then hand her the key.
Grant: Okay, see you there.
Grant moved on. Fiona went in the opposite direction. She saw a dog pass by. She paused for a moment, thinking. She began to look around, bewildered.
25. DELETE
25A. DELETE
26. EXTERNAL, Main Road in Paris, Ontario, November 2003, daytime
we see her approaching us from a steep hill in the distance. Occasionally passing cars stopped. She goes around. In the end, she stopped, stood still, looked around, and looked dazed. A car stopped in front of her. The driver was stunned. Finally, he tapped the horn lightly. She looked into the car and waved politely, but remained in a trance. A police officer, Barty, came out of the cafe when she heard the car horn and walked up to her. She was patient and didn't push Fiona, even though the driver was already sulking.
Barty: Hello, Mrs. Anderson.
Fiona: Hello, Barty.
She didn't actually notice Barty. Still uneasy.
Barty: Would you like to have a cup of coffee with me, Fiona? I was just inside. in a Parisian cafe.
Fiona: Oh, I don't drink coffee, Barty. I have to run to the bathroom as soon as I drink.
Barty: All right. I invite you to have a cup of tea. How about drinking tea? I think Mike was in a bit of a hurry, he was in a hurry to drive forward. You know what happens when he gets anxious.
Fiona glanced into the car again.
Fiona: Oh, hello, Mike. is it you? Where are you going?
Mike, an elderly farmer, stuck his head out of the car window.
Mike: Go to the livestock auction. if you do not mind!
Fiona: Of course not.
She stayed where she was, looking around. Barty gently led Fiona out of the main road.
27. INTERNATIONAL CAFÉ IN THE TOWN OF PARIS, NOVEMBER 2003
Fiona and Barty sit at a table overlooking the river sipping coffee during the day.
Barty: Can you tell me your name?
Fiona: Fiona, Fiona Anderson.
Barty: Can you tell me the Prime Minister's name?
Fiona smiled slightly.
Fiona: If you don't know the Prime Minister's name, young lady, you really shouldn't be in such a responsible job.
Barty smiled.
Fiona: Listen, Barty, you haven't seen Edith and George lately, have you? I feel like they are avoiding me.
Batty thought for a moment.
Barty: Who are Edith and George?
Fiona frowned.
28. INT, HOUSE, LATER 1960s
Grant's Memories: Fiona opens the bathroom door. She was in her mid-twenties. Tears flowed down my face. She looked up at us, dejected. This image permeates the conversation below.
Grant (voice-over): Edith and George. Uh. Edith and George were...the mutts she had had years ago, and they were all messed up. It was supposed to help a friend. But during their lifetime, she took good care of them.
Barty (voice-over): How long ago...
Grant: Oh, like a lifetime ago. I think this happened at the same time as the discovery that she was infertile. Her fallopian tubes were blocked or twisted - I can't remember now.
29. INTERNATIONAL - ANDERSON'S LIVING ROOM - NOVEMBER 2003 - NIGHT
BATTY looks at Grant sitting across from the dining table. In the background, Fiona is skiing on the lake.
Grant: I'm afraid I've been avoiding thinking about these... female organs.
Barty: So, two dogs. The dog she had a long time ago.
Grant looked absent-minded.
Grant: She got them back on a whim. But take good care of it. I think I might have been brought home this way. I didn't understand this until recently.
He chuckled softly.
Barty: Have you been to Dr. Fitch?
Grant: No. I guess I don't want to hear what she has to say, do I?
Barty: You can't walk in the middle of the road and make sure everything is business as usual.
Grant: Impossible. I know.
30. DOCTOR'S OFFICE - NOVEMBER 2003 - AM
Dr. Fitch is an amiable, small-town doctor in his forties. Fiona and Grant are sitting in the office.
Dr. Fitch: What year is this year?
Fiona: 2003.
Dr. Fitch: What's the Prime Minister's name?
Fiona (to Grant) Grant, it seems nobody reads the newspapers in this town.
Grant and Dr. Fitch looked at each other with a smile. Fiona caught their eyes and seemed to be thinking about their relationship. But the intense emotion in her eyes came and went quickly. Comes suddenly, fleetingly.
Fiona: Pete Martin.
Grant breathed a sigh of relief.
Dr. Fitch: Fiona, what would you do if you found an addressed, stamped letter on the street?
Fiona looked at her.
Fiona: I'll post the letter.
Dr. Fitch: Where did you send the letter?
Fiona was silent. There seemed to be no end to the pause.
Dr. Fitch: What would you do if a movie theater caught fire and you were the first to find out?
Another pause that seemed to have no end.
Fiona: We don't watch movies much anymore. isn't it, Grant? All the multiplex theaters are showing American trash. Did you see my coat?
She began to look around the room. She stood up and rummaged under the items behind her desk.
Grant: The coat hangs on the back of the chair.
She stopped to look at the coat, then picked it up and put it on.
Dr. Fitch: Fiona, do you mind if I ask you a few more questions? will you sit down?
Fiona sat down again. It felt like they were all staring at her.
Fiona: I'm a little cold. That's all.
31. WAITING ROOM - NOVEMBER 2003 - DAY
Fiona and Grant walk out of the doctor's office with a few pamphlets in hand. They passed several elderly people and a mother with a baby. Fiona commented loudly.
Fiona: This kid is ugly.
Grant couldn't help laughing. They snickered together as they walked out the door.
32. EXT. COUNTRY ROAD, NOVEMBER 2003, DAY
FIona and Grant drive through town and into the countryside. They followed country roads through fields and past farms. The pamphlets were placed between the two of them. One was promoting a nursing home called Caohu, and the others were mostly about the early signs of Alzheimer's disease. They looked at each other every now and then. They turned into the desolate road that led to their dwelling. The road stretches across the fields and traverses the train tracks. They veered into their own path and pulled into the driveway.
33. EXT, ANDERSON'S DRIVE, NOVEMBER 2003, DURING THE DAY
THEY DRIVE TO THE FARMHOUSE. Fiona looked at the farmhouse as if she had seen it for the first time.
Fiona: When did we move into the farmhouse? Was it last year or the year before?
Grant stopped the car. He answered bluntly. With an encouraging tone.
Grant: Longer. It was when I left college, about twenty years ago.
Fiona shook her head, a little surprised.
Fiona: Well, incredible.
She looked at the brochure. Then looked at him affectionately. She shrugged and stroked his face.
Fiona: Let's see how it goes, shall we?
34. EXT. MARIANNE'S HOUSE, FEBRUARY 2005 - AM
Marian is still standing at the door. She spoke to Grant in a defiant tone.
Marianne: My husband isn't trying to seduce your wife, if you're here. He had no intention of harassing her in the slightest. He doesn't have that ability, and he definitely won't. I've heard the exact opposite.
Grant: No. Absolutely not. I didn't come to complain to you.
Marianne: Oh, then I'm sorry. I thought you were here to complain.
She didn't sound sorry at all. She stared at him for a moment, trying to figure out his purpose.
Marianne: Well, you'd better come in. Opening the door will blow cold wind into the house. The weather looks good today, but it's actually not warm.
Grant entered the house. He breathed a sigh of relief, and was finally invited into the house by Marianne.
35. INTERNATIONAL - THE ANDERSON'S LIVING ROOM - NOVEMBER 2003 -
Fiona's reading a booklet on Alzheimer's disease during the day. Grant was reading the newspaper, glancing at her from above from time to time.
Fiona: "Don't blame God for someone and feel guilty for it." Well, bullshit.
Grant: I don't see what that means. I'm not even sure what this is...you're so young.
Fiona: So that's the "early sign," dear. Or maybe I've always been a weird guy. oh i love this part. “Symptoms of dyspraxia are often present in the early stages of Alzheimer’s...In the early stages, when the patient is faced with multiple choices, the use of psychotropic symptoms is more pronounced. He may be able to wear it without difficulty. Shirts, but with a set of shirts, ties, underwear, pants, and coats, he'd be at a loss as to what to wear first."
She wondered what that meant.
Fiona (emphasis added): It takes a long time to diagnose.
She smiled lightly.
The words lingered. They looked at each other tacitly. She browses the pamphlet. The atmosphere was solemn silence. Then she went on to read.
Fiona: If a person with this condition stays at home, the caregiver is usually the spouse.
36. ANDERSON'S KITCHEN - FLASH BACK TO WINTER 2003, sunset
accompanied by the sound of Fiona reading, we see: A pot of water on the stove is left unattended and forgotten. Grant walked over. Looking at the kettle, he looked sad. He slowly removed the kettle from the fire. The camera stayed on his face for a long time. He looked out the window as Fiona skied around the vast fields in the crimson sunset. She waved her arms gleefully. He also waved his hand in answer. She continued skiing, then gradually stopped and took a few more steps.
Fiona (voice-over): The caregiver has to live with the worsening of his or her loved one; has to do it year after year, and the situation is always getting worse; what's more, it has to be within a few Months have to find remedies for the patient's new disability; have to deal with whimsical demands and bizarre comments, and at times endure indignities that are both insane and personal; have to learn to laugh at it all. Caregivers have to diagnose a large number of unusual illnesses in unusual conditions. Imagine that someone you love the most is suddenly feeling sick, but can't communicate the problem with you at all, or even understand it yourself.
(CUT TO)
37. INT. Anderson's living room, November 2003,
Fiona meditating during the day.
She smiled.
Fiona: Sounds like an ordinary marriage.
38. EXT, LAKE, DECEMBER 2003
Fiona and Grant ski side by side in the late afternoon. They glance at each other from time to time, much like we saw in the first scene.
Grant: I'm exhausted. I have to go back and make dinner.
Fiona: You've got to try to cheer up. You're with a woman younger than you, old guy.
He laughed.
Grant: Come back when you're hungry.
Fiona: I will.
He slid toward the farmhouse. Leave her staring at the lake.
39. EXT, LAKE/WOODS, DECEMBER 2003
Fiona continues skiing alone in the late afternoon. She stopped by the woods across the lake. She took off her skis and went into the woods. The forest is dense. Occasionally a tree branch touched her hair or face. Going somewhere, she decided to sit down. She is sitting in the snow. Lie down and look up at the trees.
The crimson sunset shone down through the tops of the pine trees. She looked fascinated and smiled.
40. INT. Anderson's living room, December 2003,
the sun sets at dusk. Grant stood alone by the window, peering out to check the ski tracks on the snow. A worried look appeared on his face.
41. EXT. BRIDGE, DECEMBER 2003 -
Fiona crosses the bridge at dusk and walks towards the town. A train passes by on the bridge in the distance. She is wearing ski boots. Move clumsily. She looked worried and dazed. She stopped and looked first at this road and then at that road.
42. EXT. WOODS, DECEMBER 2003 - NIGHT
Grant follows the trails of his skis to the woods on the other side of the lake. The skis were left unattended. Grant looked around, worried.
42A. EXTERIOR, COUNTRY ROAD, DECEMBER 2003
Grant drives frantically.
42B. EXTERNAL, Paris, Ontario, December 2003, Night
Grant drives over the bridge to the town. He saw Fiona. Fiona is staring at the river. He stopped the car and watched her for a moment. Then roll down the window.
Grant: Fiona.
Fiona: Hi. I'm thinking that this part of town hasn't changed, which is awesome.
Grant got out of the car, wrapped his arms around her and warmed her, and the two looked at the limestone back wall of the building by the river. Grant was worried.
43. INT. CAR - DECEMBER 2003 - NIGHT
Grant drives Fiona home. They were silent for a long time.
Grant: Where were you just now, Fiona?
Fiona: I was trying to walk home along the fence. I always count on the fence to take me to my destination.
Her tone was relaxed, as if it were a joke. Grant couldn't help laughing. She looked at his furrowed brows.
Fiona: I'm afraid you'll have to take me to that place. Is it called Morning Lake?
Grant was breathing heavily.
Grant: Grass Lake. We are not at that stage yet.
Fiona: Morning Lake. dry lake. Bad lake. It's a bad lake.
Her indifferent attitude annoyed him.
44. THE ANDERSONS' LIVING ROOM, DECEMBER 2003 - THEY SIT IN SILENCE AT THE DINING TABLE NIGHT
.
Fiona: We're at that stage, Grant.
She put her hand gently on his.
Fiona: We got to that stage.
Grant rested his head in his hands and rested his arms on the table.
Grant: Even if we're thinking about it -- even if we're thinking about it, it's definitely not permanent. It is an experimental treatment. Like rest or something.
Fiona: All right, all right. We can think of it this way.
She fondly stroked his hand.
45. MARYANNE'S HOUSE - FEBRUARY 2005 - AM
Maryanne leads Grant through the porch and living room. The interior was kept neat and tidy. A residence for a truly down-to-earth person. Everything is in good order and orderly. The hallways are covered with plastic floor mats to protect the carpets. A stark contrast to his cozy and cluttered farmhouse.
Marianne: We have to sit in the kitchen so I can hear Aubrey.
46. MARYANNE'S KITCHEN - FEBRUARY 2005 - AM
MARYAN DRIVES Grantra a chair and invites him to sit. We could hear the TV coming from the next room. The door opened a line, and all he could see was a man's foot, stepping on a wheelchair.
Marianne: Would you like a cup of coffee?
Grant: Thank you.
Marianne: My son put him on sports last Christmas. I don't know what we would do without sports channels.
Grant: It must be difficult.
Marianne: Oh, you know. Now you know what's not easy, don't you?
She poured him a cup of coffee.
47. INTERNATIONAL - ANDERSON'S LIVING ROOM - DECEMBER 2003 - AM
Grant standing in front of Fiona in his coat. Fiona drank tea and looked out the window.
Grant: Are you sure?
Fiona: I'm sure.
Grant: You don't want to feel the place? I don't want to make the decision alone.
Fiona frowned.
Fiona: Where?
Grant sighed, intending to answer.
Fiona: Just kidding.
She forced a smile. He shook his head and smiled slightly.
Fiona: You don't make decisions alone. I have made a decision.
48. EXT. CAO LAKE, DECEMBER 2003 - AM
Grant standing in the parking lot of the Caohu Nursing Home.
49. INT. Caohu Admission, December 2003, morning
This is a neat and bright nursing home. Several elderly people relying on walkers walked over. Grant observes a woman. She was carefully identifying ten walkers stacked together. She went through them one by one, trying to find out which one was hers. Grant looked at her, wondering if Fiona had really reached the point where she needed to be here. He watched the nurse tend an elderly woman, Theresa, assisted by Teresa's son, Liam. Nurse Betty spoke to the old woman as if she were a three-year-old. Grant looked at them thoughtfully.
Betty: Now, Mrs. Taylor, are you ready to take a shower? Time for a shower, Mrs. Taylor. Taking a shower is a good thing, right?
Teresa: Yes, taking a shower is a good thing.
Liam: I'll go with you, Mom.
The serious-looking Dean Madeleine came out from behind the desk to greet Grant. Give him a firm handshake with a routine smile.
Madeleine: Mr. Anderson. My name is Madeleine Montpellier. He is the dean of Caohu.
Grant: Hello.
Madeleine: Now I'll show you the nursing home, and then we can sit down and discuss Mrs. Anderson's condition and the appropriate time for her admission.
She led him into the bright corridor, brightly lit.
Madeleine: As you can see, we have a lot of lights.
Grant: Yes, I see it.
50. INTERNATIONAL CORNER OF LAKE LAKE, DECEMBER 2003 - AM
Madeleine leads Grant through the sunroom while residents play jigsaw puzzles.
Madeleine: There, as you can see, they are playing a puzzle. They don't always play enough.
They passed Mrs. Albright and Michelle, the two residents of Grass Lake, and they were talking.
Michelle: Hello, lovely Madeleine.
Madeleine: Hello, Michelle.
They walked past the TV area, which was stocked with the latest models.
Madeleine: As you can see, our entertainment equipment is the latest model, and guests can gather here to watch.
She led him into the dining area, which had many windows. An old man keeps fiddling with a key, creating disturbing acoustics. The place is decorated for Christmas with a tall Christmas tree adorned with colorful lights. Elderly people with different self-care abilities eat lunch with the help of different levels of staff. Many have family members who come to visit. The different stages of Alzheimer's can be seen here, but none of them look as strong and capable as Fiona. Grant was distraught.
Madeleine: We can cater for any taste or with special requirements. It's an early Christmas meal for the family.
Grant looked at the people eating. Of these people, who would Fiona choose to spend time with?
She led him to the elevator.
Madeleine: The old grassy lake is next door. It is now a day activity center. But this one, for long-term residents, is brand new.
They stopped outside the elevator door. Madeleine pressed the button.
A guest, Eliza, came leaning on a walker. There is a cup of tea on her walker. Her pace was too slow, as if she was going to go on forever. She looked up at Grant.
Eliza: Take my tea for a drive.
Grant smiled kindly at her. Another old woman, Florence, came over. Eliza spoke to her.
Eliza: Look at this, Flo. What a handsome guy, isn't he? What do you think? Are you handsome?
Grant smiled uneasily.
Grant: Oh, I guess, you should say I used to be a handsome guy.
He smiled sweetly at her. Fascinating.
Eliza: You bad guy. Are you moving in with us?
Madeleine: Mr. Anderson is here for his wife, Eliza. Pay attention to your behavior.
Eliza: Oh, I should have thought of that. At this age, it's just... what do the kids say, Flo? What a fucking fuck. Handsome guys have masters. Or die. Most are dead.
Grant laughed. The elevator doors opened, and he kissed Eliza lightly on the cheek before stepping into the elevator. Eliza was flattered.
Grant: You're a beauty yourself, sweetheart.
Eliza grinned.
51. INT. SECOND FLOOR - DECEMBER 2003 - AM
Elevator doors open and Madeleine and Grant enter the second floor. A young nurse is feeding the resident. The cheap sound system was playing Brittney Spires. Almost everyone here is silent, only a few people are moaning. These people are terminally ill. Grant shuddered.
Madeleine: This is the second floor—our intensive care area. The elevator has a locking device. If patients make progress, they are moved here.
Grant smiled.
Grant: The words are interesting.
Madeleine stared at him. She doesn't like him very much. But there was still a smile on his face. It's that routine smile again.
Madeleine: I'll show you around when I get to the room. Then I'll show you the common floor where Mrs. Anderson will live.
Grant: No need. My wife will not "progress" to this floor.
he said firmly. look straight at her.
Madeleine: All right.
They pressed the elevator button again. Wait for the elevator. There was an awkward silence in Grant and Madeleine's conversation. Brittney Spiersish sang. Grant suddenly realized. He turned and glanced at a young nurse. She is singing to the music.
Grant: Who picks the music?
Madeleine: What?
Grant: Not "guests", I guess. I didn't see anyone singing along.
Madeleine glanced back.
Madeleine: The rooms on the normal floors have their own audio equipment. Guests can play any music they like.
They walked into the elevator. Grant was still staring at the second floor and its occupants when the elevator doors closed.
Grant: So thoughtful.
52. MADELAINE'S OFFICE - DECEMBER 2003 - AM
Madeleine sits across from Grant and hands him some papers.
Madeleine: We don't have any guests in the month of December, so Mrs. Anderson has to wait until January to move in. Then we'll make a room, like the one I showed you.
Grant looked at her inquiringly.
Madeleine: December...Christmas has a lot of emotional hidden dangers.
Grant: Yes.
Christy, a beautiful woman in her late forties, entered the room.
Christy: Sorry to interrupt your conversation. I was just looking for the Aubrey Barker file.
Madeleine: Please. Mr. Anderson, this is Christy, our nurse in charge.
Christy held out his hand. She is lively and sweet.
Christy: I've been rated more highly by others.
Madeleine: Mr. Anderson is here for his wife. Mrs Anderson will move in in January.
Christy: Hi, hello.
Grant: Hello.
Madeleine closed down. Christy searches the bookshelf for binders.
Madeleine: We have one more rule. New residents are not allowed to meet with visitors or answer the phone for a month. This is to give the guests some time to get used to.
Grant: What type of visitors?
Madeleine: All visitors. Not even close family members.
Grant was taken aback.
Grant: I can't just leave her here.
Madeleine: Oh, we understand, it's not easy to do. But most people need this time to get used to the environment. Before we set this rule, they tended to forget again and again why they were here. But we found that once the month-long adaptation period passed, they lived happily ever after. At that time, Caohu was their home. After that, it would be fine for them to come home and visit from time to time. Of course, this does not apply to the occupants of the second floor. It's too difficult, and they don't know where they are anyway.
Grant: My wife won't go to the second floor.
Madeleine: No. I just like to say everything up front.
Christie walked out the door with a binder. She squeezed Grant's shoulder.
Christy: We'll take good care of her, I promise.
Her smile was warm and sincere. Grant looked up at her. He trusted her. smiled at her.
53. INT. Caohu Dining Area, December 2003,
a female resident of Caohu sits silently in the afternoon. Her friend, her age, also sat silently. She put her hand on her friend's cheek. They stared at each other fondly and sadly. Many guests dine with their children and grandchildren. Caohu is decorated with lights for the festival and is serving a turkey feast. The camera moves between the dining tables, capturing snippets of the conversation. Michelle sat and chatted with her family. So did Mrs Jenkins and Mrs Albright. Mrs Albright's daughter Rebecca complained to her that she was complaining too much. Eliza sat with her family. She spoke with her deaf daughter Stella in sign language. She is full of love for her daughter. The other members of the family were talking to themselves, paying no attention to the two of them. We move from table to table, capturing what people have to say.
Marianne, a woman a few years younger than Grant, sat next to him, staring blankly at a man in a wheelchair. Tears filled his eyes. Grant looked at her sympathetically. She smiled at him with tears in her eyes. She picked up her purse and walked out.
Families who came to visit left their relatives one after another. Grant has been watching from the sidelines. Slowly, in a series of overlapping shots, the common area becomes empty. Makes the occupant more empty, lonely, and more deeply longing.
They either stared out the window, or went back to their rooms, some in wheelchairs, some staggering. Light changes. It was almost evening, and Grant had been sitting there watching for a long time.
54. ANDERSON'S BEDROOM, DECEMBER 2003 - NIGHT
Grant lay in bed staring at the ceiling. Fiona was sleeping.
55. ANDERSON'S BEDROOM, DECEMBER 2003 - Morning
Grant is still sleeping. Fiona got up gently.
56. INTERSON'S LIVING ROOM, DECEMBER 2003
Fiona sits at the dining table in the morning stirring coffee. Grant came in, rubbing his eyes in his dressing gown.
Grant: It smells good.
Fiona: I wanted to go skiing, but I didn't think I should take the risk. Since you have Alzheimer's or something.
She smiled at him.
Grant: Why didn't you wake me up?
She picked up a few forms from the table.
Fiona: What is this, Grant?
Grant: This is... a form to fill out. If you decide to go to Caohu Lake.
She was lost.
Fiona: But that's exactly my decision. You should go and sign these forms. Leave the form there. Is it cold there? Is it dark there?
Grant: Not black. There are many lights.
She looked at him inquiringly.
Grant: I can't visit you for thirty days.
She walked over to him and wrapped her arms around him.
Fiona: Thirty days is not a long time after living together for forty-four years.
Grant: I don't think I like that place.
Fiona: I don't think we should be looking for places we like, Grant. I don't think we can find it. In this case, I guess, all we can expect is a little favor.
Grant saw that she had made up her mind and nodded.
57. ANDERSON'S LIVING ROOM - DECEMBER 2003 - NIGHT
Christmas tree is lit and the fireplace is roaring. Grant and Fiona dance to Neil Young's "The Harvest Moon." She put her feet on his and he spun her around the room. They whispered.
58. ANOTHER ROOM - Grant's Memories in the late 1950s
: Grant and Fiona in their youth, dancing in the same way. He brushed a strand of hair from her forehead affectionately. She smiled and opened his hand. Pulling on his earlobe affectionately.
59. THE ANDERSONS LIVING ROOM - DECEMBER 2003 - NIGHT
Grant tries to brush a strand of hair from her forehead. She waited a while. Then playfully opened his hands in a youthful manner. She gently pulled on his earlobe again.
60. FRONT PORCH OF ANDERSON'S HOUSE - JANUARY 2004
Fiona's luggage has been packed early in the morning. She dressed up a little. She looked at herself in the mirror. Grant looked at her.
Fiona: I think I have to dress up every day. Or a little makeup. It's like being in a hotel.
She put on a fancy coat. Apply your usual red lipstick.
Fiona: How do I look?
Grant: As usual. Same as you have always been.
Fiona: What was that like?
Grant: Straightforward and vague. Sweet and ironic.
Fiona: Is that what I look like?
She looked straight at him. They looked at each other and smiled.
61. EXT. COUNTRY ROAD, JANUARY 2004 Early morning
Grant and Fiona drive silently. "The Moon in the Harvest Season" continues to play. Fiona noticed something on the side of the road.
Fiona: Oh, remember?
Grant looked over and saw the hollow they had walked through in the spring. The bright yellow flowers have disappeared. Now covered with snow. Grant smiled at her, then looked forward. He tried his best to control himself, so he didn't turn around and go home.
Fiona: You seem surprised, Grant.
Grant: Not surprised. Just be grateful. You remember, I appreciate it.
62. INT. Caohu Hospital, January 2004
They stand at the admission in the morning, waiting for the staff to come to the desk. A teardrop rolled down Fiona's cheek.
Fiona: You were so kind to me, Grant.
Fiona stroked his cheek. Grant took her hand. Desperately kissing her hand.
Madeleine came out of the office. I feel that the atmosphere is heavy at the moment, and I am rashly intruding between the two of them.
Madeleine: Should I give the two of you some time?
Grant: Yes, please...
Fiona: No, thank you. I want to go to my room now.
Madeleine: Yes, Mrs. Anderson. We will arrange for you to stay in your room. Then I'll show you around the institution.
Grant looked at Fiona pleadingly.
Fiona: Okay. Sounds good.
She shook Grant's arm. He reluctantly followed them to the room.
63. Fiona's Room, January 2004,
A very nice room in the morning. The windows are bright. Elegantly furnished.
Fiona: Okay. This room will be very comfortable.
Madeleine glanced at the luggage they had brought.
Madeleine: I'm glad you like the room, Mrs. Anderson. Is that all you bring today?
Fiona: That's all for now.
Grant: We want to see how it goes first.
Their ideas clearly diverged. Madeleine thought for a moment. Speak straight to Grant.
Madeleine: All right. Let us know if you need someone to help you pack your things.
He glared at her.
Fiona (politely) Thank you, Madame Montpellier. If you don't mind, now I want to say goodbye to my husband. We have not had a month-long separation in the past forty-four years. This is a big deal for us.
Madeleine: Absolutely. When you are ready, you can come directly to the office to find me.
Fiona: I will.
Madeleine left the room.
Grant sat heavily on the bed, grabbed Fiona's hand, and pulled her to his side.
Grant: Please, Fiona.
Fiona: Grant, you know what I really want to do?
Grant: Fiona...
she stroked his face. kiss him.
Fiona: I want to have sex. Then I want you to leave. Because I have to stay here. But if you make the separation too hard, I think I'm going to burst into tears and never stop.
Tears rolled down her cheeks. He was heartbroken, but managed to nod. She kissed him again. They have sex on a made bed.
64. FIona's Room, JANUARY 2004 - Late morning
Grant and Fiona lie in each other's arms. He snuggled up to her. She kissed his forehead softly.
Fiona: Let's go now. Let's go now.
He kissed her passionately. Leave. Dress awkwardly. Appears clumsy. He wears shoes. It seems to have taken a long time. Fiona looked at him. He gave up, shirt open, pants twisted. He leaned down and kissed her one last time. Force yourself to leave. He walked out of the room. Fiona waved lightly to the closed door.
65. INTERNATIONAL CORROSION - JANUARY 2004 - AM
Grant standing outside the door sorting his trousers. A nurse passed by. seemed taken aback. Grant shrugged awkwardly. Go to the hall.
66. SUNROOM - JANUARY 2004 - AM
Grant sees head nurse Christy. She is caring for an elderly man in a wheelchair. The old man looked blank. Grant walked towards her hesitantly.
Grant: Hello, hello.
She held out her hand enthusiastically.
Christy: My name is Christy. We saw it when you came to visit. Is Mrs Anderson settled?
He nodded vaguely.
Grant: Can I have a word with you? I would like to ask for your advice.
Christy: Of course. Mr. Buck and I are reading. Maybe I can go to the admissions and see you after I finish reading this chapter, how about that?
Grant: All right. Fine thanks.
Christie continued to read to the dumbfounded old man. The sound is clear and no corners are cut.
67. INT. Grass Lake Dining Area, January 2004 - Morning
Grant sits distractedly on a plush chair. He watched Eliza sign with a woman in her thirties, apparently her daughter. They are eager and focused. Madeleine stuck her head out of the door.
Madeleine: Is she going to visit? Grant
: Well, I'm not sure. I need a moment to think about all this.
Madeleine came over and sat beside him.
Madeleine: Mr. Anderson, I don't know if it's okay to say that, but I think your wife seems very happy to be here today. The situation could have been much more difficult. Almost always. In such a situation, peace of mind is the most valuable, and this point cannot be overemphasized.
Grant smiled faintly. Her indifference surprised him.
Madeleine: I'll give her a few minutes and see how she's doing.
Madeleine left. Grant watched as Frank, a male resident, walked slowly through the door, escorted by nurse Betty. Frank had been nagging fast as he entered the door.
Frank: We're going to the center, little Betty's helping me, we're going upstairs, upstairs, we're going past the restaurant...
Christy: Hello, hello, Mr. Anderson. Can I do something for you now?
She took a seat beside him. Noticed him watching the male guest.
Christy: Oh, that's Frank. He was a live commentator for the Winnipeg Jets.
Grant watched him leave. Frank is still doing live commentary on his every move. Grant was stunned.
Grant: Indeed.
Christy couldn't help laughing.
Christie: He loves his job too much to retire.
She shrugged.
Christy: Frank is on the second floor.
Grant: I just...my wife has always been different. I was thinking, hearing that Alzheimer's is undiagnosed, until...today, on the way here, she just...we passed a conservation area where we walked last spring. There are gorgeous flowers. Yellow Lily.
Christy: It's beautiful, isn't it?
Grant: You know, unforgettable indeed. Today, even though the whole land is covered with snow, she still says, "Oh, remember". And that was more recently, about nine months ago. Doesn't short-term memory disappear first?
Christy: Oh, yes. But not all at once. The comforting thing is that long-term memories are sometimes retained for quite a while.
Grant was perplexed.
Grant: Yes. Her long-term memory appears to be intact.
This is very meaningful. She studied him carefully. Consider his tone.
Grant: When she said those flowers, those yellow lilies. I tried my best not to turn around and go home. If...if it was all just her...would it be? She's still so young...
Christie didn't speak for a while, letting him think for a moment.
Christy: She's still young. This is hard to accept. no doubt. A month is really a long time. To be honest, I don't know the rules myself. I guess it's for the convenience of the staff. But lo and behold, this is my pager number. You can call me anytime. You can play every day if you like. I will tell you about her. I'll keep an eye out for her too.
She saw that he was still clueless.
Christy: Look, we're pretty good here. I don't know how the management is. But those who deal directly with Mrs Anderson, I have to say, we're a very good team.
He sighed.
Grant: I don't know what to do.
Madeleine came again.
Madeleine: Mr. Anderson. Here's a note from Mrs. Anderson. She wants me to turn it over to you.
He opened the note. It said, "Go now. I love you. Go now. Feona." He stared at the misspelling.
Grant (murmurs): All right, all right.
He turned to Christie.
Grant: Thank you very much.
He left the building. Christie watched him leave sympathetically.
68. EXT. COUNTRY ROAD, JANUARY 2004. Morning
KD Lang's version of "After the Gold Rush" plays in the next few scenes.
Grant drove home in pain. He passed the hollow that was once full of yellow lilies. Looking sadly at the land.
68A. INT. Anderson's bedroom, January 2004 - Night
Grant reads a book about Alzheimer's disease. This voiceover continues in the following scenes.
Grant (outside): Throughout the brain, sticky platelets aggregate neurons beyond cell membranes. Multiple tangles damage the microtubules that export from the cell.
69. INT. Caohu Dining Area, January 2004, morning
Christie introduces Fiona to the man in the wheelchair with the hollow eyes. She greeted him warmly. sit beside him.
70. INT. Anderson's kitchen, January 2004 -
Grant washing dishes at night. He tried to put away the frying pan, but stopped halfway through. Then put the frying pan in the cupboard.
71. EXT. LAKE, JANUARY 2004, Twilight
Grant is skiing alone along the shore of the lake. He slid round and round until the sun set, leaving a crimson sunset in the sky, and the fields seemed to be inlaid with blue ice lines, undulating at the edges. He stopped on the other side of the lake shore. Staring at the farmhouse. Huge panorama: Grant stands alone in the snow, staring at the isolated farmhouse.
Grant (voice-over): All in all, hundreds of millions of synapses disappeared. Because the structure and substructure of the brain are so well-defined, the specific locations where nerve cells disappear determine which specific abilities are damaged. Like a series of circuit breakers in a big house jumping up one by one.
72. EXT. LAKE, JANUARY 2004 NIGHT
Grant stands motionless on the frozen lake, still looking back at the farmhouse. The lights in the house went out one by one.
73. EXT. Anderson's farmhouse, early morning
Grant takes down a string of Christmas lights from the front of the house.
74. EXT, LAKE, JANUARY 2004,
36 frames per second during the day: Grant straps on his skis. Take a few steps. change idea. Walk back to the farmhouse.
75. MARYANNE'S KITCHEN, FEBRUARY 2005 - AM
A variety of appliances and utensils sit on the cupboards—coffee makers, food processors, knife sharpeners, and more. All of these things look brand new and expensive, as if they were just taken out of their packaging, or wiped down daily. Grant thought it might be a good idea to say a few compliments.
Grant: The coffee pot looks really nice. I've been wanting to buy a coffee maker like this. I've seen this jug on sale in the Garatel store.
Marianne: They gave it to me. My son and daughter-in-law. They live in Kamloops. We don't use many of the things they give us. Might as well use the money to see us.
GRANT (reasonably): I think they're busy living their lives.
Marianne gave a sharp laugh.
Marianne: But they were free to go on vacation to Hawaii last winter. If there are other people at home and around, we can understand. But he is our only child.
She took two brown and green coffee cups from a branch hanging from an earthenware tree cup on the table and poured in coffee. She also sat down. Grant spoke hesitantly.
Grant: People do feel lonely. If they are denied the right to see the people they care about. Like, Fiona, my wife.
Marianne: I remember you said you were going to visit her.
Grant: I'm going. I'm not referring to this.
76. INTERSON'S BEDROOM, FEBRUARY 2004 - GRANTED COMINGS TO THE MORNING
. Look carefully at yourself.
(FLASHBACK)
77. INT. ANOTHER HOUSE
Grant's Memories: Grant in his early thirties combs his hair in front of the bathroom mirror. Fiona appeared behind him. Tie his tie. She wrapped her arms around his waist. kiss his neck. They looked at each other affectionately in the mirror.
78. EXTERNAL COUNTRY ROAD, FEBRUARY 2004 - Morning
Grant is driving on the long country road to Grassy Lake. He was full of excitement and joy.
SUBTITLE: Aubrey and Amnesia
79. INT. Grass Lake Foyer, February 2004 - Morning
Grant trots across the hall, holding flowers awkwardly in both hands. Madeleine saw him from the office.
Madeleine: Here you are. I will take you to see her.
She looked at the flowers.
Madeleine: Wow. Bought daffodils so early. You must have spent a lot of money.
They walked down the corridor.
Madeleine: Interesting. They all came with flowers. Even people who don't like to buy flowers do it. They both become guilty husbands. The only thing missing is love. It's important to remember that you did nothing wrong.
They passed several people in wheelchairs. The men stared into the void and muttered to themselves. An old woman passed by them, looking dazed.
Mrs. Albright: I must have left my sweater in the church. Just this morning. I left my sweater in the church.
Christie, who passed by, put her hand gently on the old woman's shoulder.
Christy: Oh, maybe someone picked up the sweater for you and put it back in your room. Mrs Albright, I'll help you find the sweater.
The old woman was quiet. Nod. Turn around and walk in the direction you came from. Christy saw Grant.
Christy: Nice to meet you, Mr. Anderson.
She squeezed his shoulder. Continue down the hall.
Madeleine: Right there. Last time you were here, remember? Her room is there. There is her name tag on the door. Go for it yourself.
Madeleine went away. Grant stopped in front of the door. Look at the handcrafted name brand. It was rough, but Fiona's name was neatly written, and it was decorated with a few yellow flowers, made of clay. Much like a lily. He touched the flowers tenderly. Smile. He hesitated for a moment. I don't know if I should knock on the door. Decided to knock. Knock softly on the door. open the door.
80. Fiona's Room, February 2004 - AM
Grant peers out of the door.
Grant: Fiona?
no answer. There is no one in the room. There were still no personal items in the room. The bed is made. There is a glass of water and a box of tissues on the small table by the bed. No photos, no paintings of any kind, no books, and no magazines. He looked around the room, disappointed and turned away.
81. Deleted
82. Interior, Dining Area, February 2004, Morning
Some residents sit in easy chairs against the wall, others at the central table. The floor is carpeted. The man who played the piano when Grant visited was playing again. Pressing and pressing with one finger, can not play the tune. A group of residents sat and played cards. Grant saw Fiona's silhouette. She sat very close to the poker table, but did not play. She was sitting next to the man in the wheelchair. She looked a little changed. Her hair was all combed back, a hairstyle that she had never seen before. Her usual red lipstick is also gone. Christie walked behind Grant.
Christy: There she is. You go over and say hi to her, being careful not to scare her. Know that she might—well, go for it.
Christy was worried. Grant walked to the card table. He approached. All the players, including Fiona, looked up at him. The others looked down at the cards again, except Fiona. With a charming smile, she pushed back the chair and walked towards him. Put your fingers to your lips.
Fiona (whispering): Bridge. Seriously to death. They are all fanatical.
She pulled him to the coffee table. Let him sit next to her. Talk and behave politely, like an old acquaintance.
Fiona: I remember being a bridge fan in college. My friends and I would skip class to go to the common room and sit there smoking and playing cards like a bunch of gangsters. There was a man named Phoebe. The others I don't remember.
Grant: Phoebe Hart.
Fiona: You know her too? Can I get you something to drink? Have a cup of tea? The coffee here is probably not that good.
Grant: I don't drink tea...
Grant is overwhelmed. He wanted to hug her. But something in her demeanor stopped him. He found something to say.
Grant: I brought you flowers. I think flowers can add a lot of color to your room. I went to your room, but you weren't there.
Fiona: Oh, no. I'm here.
Embarrassing pause.
Grant: You've made a new friend.
He was referring to the man in the wheelchair. The man looked up, and Fiona looked back at him.
Fiona: That's Aubrey. The funny thing is that I knew him years ago. He worked in the store, the hardware store my grandfather frequented. He joked with me a lot, but never had the guts to date me. He didn't invite me to the ball game until the last weekend. But at the end of the game my grandfather showed up and drove me home. That summer I came to visit my family in the north. Came to visit my grandparents - they lived in a farmhouse by the lake.
Grant: Fiona, I know where your grandparents lived. That's exactly where we used to live. Live there now.
Fiona was distracted when she saw Aubrey's expression. He looked at her eagerly, with control in his eyes.
Fiona: Really?
Fiona turned back to Grant nervously.
Fiona: I better go back. He felt he couldn't play without me sitting there. This is really silly. I almost forgot about bridge. I'm sorry, please forgive me.
Grant: Is the game over soon?
Fiona: Oh, it should be. It depends on the situation. If you politely make a request to the stern lady, she will pour you tea.
She was referring to the stern-looking nurse behind the coffee maker.
Grant: No problem.
Fiona: Then I'll go. Are you going to have some fun yourself? You may find it strange here, but you'll get used to it soon enough to surprise you. You'll know who's who here. Except for those who are really confused, you know—and you don't expect them to know who you are.
She left Grant and sat back in the chair at the card table. She whispered something to Aubrey and tapped the back of his hand with her fingers. Grant stared at them for a moment, then got up and left. Aubrey cast a suspicious glance. Fiona waved politely.
83. INT.
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