"Growing Up Education" Movie Script
Text / [UK] Nick Hornby
Translated by Zhang Ying
1. INTERIOR, SCHOOL, DAY
January 1962. montage.
A girls' school in the south west suburbs of London. We see a group of girls in a Ladies School in 1962 doing what Ladies School students are supposed to do; walking with books over their heads, practicing writing, making cakes, playing tennis, and dancing.
1A. INTERIOR, CLASSROOM, DAY
In one classroom, Miss Stubbs, an attractive, bright and active teacher, is teaching a group of 16-year-old female students. Some of the girls seemed to be daydreaming—looking out the window, checking their fingernails. Two or three girls wrote down everything the teacher said. There was only one pretty girl, Jenny, who seemed to be active, and she seemed to be in exactly the state Miss Stubbs had hoped for. She smiled faintly, her eyes lighted—she loved Miss Stubbs and the lessons. Miss Stubbs asked a question, and Jenny raised her hand—the only one in the class.
Miss Stubbs (pretends to sigh) Jenny, please answer again.
Jenny: Is it because Mr. Rochester is blind?
2. INTERIOR, BEDROOM, DAY
Jenny's bedroom. There are books and teddy bears in the room. A cello was leaning against the wall, making it huge in this small room.
Jenny was lying on a small desk. On either side of the body are Victorian novels, Latin primers and dictionaries, stacked in rickety hills. She stood up, turned to us and stretched.
She knelt down. There were some records on the floor next to a cheap record player, mostly Elgar (note 1), except for one Juliet Greco (note 2). She picked out Greco's record. The music started and she sang along.
Soon there was a loud thumping sound—under her, someone was pounding the ceiling impatiently.
MAN'S VOICE (Voiceover): I don't want to hear any French songs. There are no French songs on the syllabus, this is the last time.
Jenny sighed and reached down to turn the volume so low that she had to lie down and listen with her head pressed against the record player.
The camera zooms in on Jenny, who sings silently to barely audible music.
3. INTERIOR, LIVING ROOM, DAY
Jenny and her parents are having Sunday lunch. Jenny's father, Jack, was in his 40s, and her mother, Marjorie, was slightly younger, but every part of her body seemed middle-aged. The colors of what they ate were gray and brown, in keeping with the tone of the house. They were listening to the radio, not talking. Jenny got up from the table.
Jenny: I have an English composition due tomorrow morning.
Jack: I don't want to hear anything from upstairs this afternoon other than the sound of your sweat dripping onto your textbook.
Jenny: What about the cello?
Jack: No cello.
Jenny: I thought we had agreed that I could use the cello as my hobby?
Jack: It's already your hobby. When interviewing at Oxford, they ask you "What are your hobbies?" You can say "playing the cello". Not to lie. You don't have to practice your hobby. A hobby is a hobby.
Jenny: Or interest.
Jake (ignoring her): You don't have to be proficient. Just be interested.
Jenny: So can I not go to the Youth Orchestra?
Jack: No. Participating in an orchestra shows that you love participating in club activities. Universities love people like that.
Jenny: Ah, yes. But I have already participated. So now I can stop going.
Jack: If you don't go, it's counterproductive, isn't it? That shows you are rebellious. Oxford doesn't want people like that.
Jenny: Yes. They don't want people who think independently and make their own decisions.
JACK (without the irony in his voice, as he always does): Of course they don't like it.
4. INTERIOR VIEW, School Auditorium, Daytime
Jenny is sitting in the stringed section with her cello in her arms. People were getting ready, tuning their instruments, and people kept coming. In Jenny's row, a handsome-looking boy, Graham, was tuning his violin. He was about the same age as Jenny, and Jenny waved to him. The two 13-year-old boys sitting between them followed suit by waving at him and blowing her a few more kisses, embarrassing Graham and angering Jenny.
The silly boys couldn't help giggling: apparently, this was the funniest moment of their lives. A boy had a loud fart. Judging from everyone's exaggerated actions, the smell was really unpleasant. The comedy value of this fart even outweighs the comedy value of the waving, they can barely stay in their seats, that's their joy.
5. EXTERIOR, SCHOOL, DAY
Jenny and Graham were talking, and Graham struggled to get the bike out of the bike rack, slightly off balance with the violin on his back. Graham was nervous, unconfident and shy.
Graham: Should I dress formally?
Jenny: The best. So that my dad can see that you are a prudent young man (French), not a man Fei.
Graham: Oh my gosh.
Jenny: It's okay. I have to go. It's going to rain heavily. See Weekend.
Jenny walked towards the street as quickly as possible.
Graham: Goodbye.
The two silly boys in front came over and sent more kisses.
Boy A: Goodbye, dear! See Weekend! I will miss you with all my heart!
Graham blushed. Jenny swung her score over the boy's head.
6. EXT. BUS STOP, DAY
It's raining. Jenny tried to shield herself from the rain. A mother was crossing the road in front of her with her two young children, and a nice, glossy red sports car - the Bristol - stopped to let them pass. The driver was David, who was thirty-five or six-year-old, well-dressed, and fairly handsome. David, absent-minded and impatient, saw Jenny standing at the bus stop.
In front of the car, a child's rubber boot fell off his foot, making them slower to cross the road.
Jenny got wet from the rain. David met her eyes. Jenny smiled wryly, her smile captivating. David sighed and hesitated for a moment. The windows of the Bristol car slowly rolled down.
David: Hello.
Jenny ignored him.
David: Listen. If you're wise, you won't hitch a ride with a stranger.
Jenny smiled lightly.
David: But I'm a music lover, and I'm worried about your cello. So I propose, you put the cello in the car and you follow along.
Jenny: How did I know you wouldn't drive away with the cello?
David: Oh. Right.
He rolled down the other window too, waving at the cars parked behind him.
David: How much does a new cello cost? £20? 30? I have no idea. Even 30.
He took out a wallet, took out three £10 notes from it, and handed it to Jenny.
David: Here you go. Don't worry.
Jenny smiled and pushed the money away.
7. EXTERIOR, STREET/NEAR SCHOOL, DAY
later. The cello sits in the back seat of the Bristol car. Jenny followed the car quickly. David spoke to her while driving.
David: My name is David.
Jenny said nothing.
David: Your name is...?
Jenny: Jenny. (Pause) I've never seen a car like this before. Very chic.
David: This is the Bristol car. Limited edition.
Jenny nodded, but didn't know how to respond.
David: How was the concert going?
Jenny: Just rehearsal. The show is next Thursday.
David: What are you playing?
Jenny (ghostly): Elgar.
David: Oh, Elgar. I often feel like it's a shame he's been in Worcester for so long, what do you think? Worcester is too close to Birmingham. You can hear it in the music. If you listen carefully, you can hear the horrible Birmingham accent.
Jenny looked at him with a smile. She didn't expect him to make fun of Elgar.
David: Anyway, Elgar and Jews don't fit together.
Jenny: I'm not Jewish.
DAVID (smiling): I'm Jewish. But I'm not... accusing you.
Jenny: Oh. (smiles awkwardly) Can I ride with my cello?
DAVID (parking): Come up.
8. Interior, car, daytime
Jenny closed the door and sat appreciatively in the white leather chair. David looked at the wet girl with interest.
Jenny: It's prettier inside.
David: Where are you going, miss?
Jenny (grimace): I live right around the corner.
David: What a pity. Let's drive as slowly as possible.
9. EXTERIOR, STREET/NEAR Jenny's, DAY
The Bristol car moved slowly along the road at a walking pace.
10. IN/OUT, CAR/Jenny's house, daytime
As David drove slowly, he reached over to Jenny's seat, opened the glove box, and pulled out a pack of cigarettes.
David: Do you smoke?
Jenny: No. I'm almost home.
David lit a cigarette for himself.
David: I think the cellists go to a lot of concerts.
Jenny: We don't go to concerts. We don't believe in concerts.
David: Oh, they are real.
Jenny: That's what everyone said.
David: Why don't you believe in music?
Jenny: I think...what would he say?
David: Your father, is he?
Jenny (gloomy): Yes. He would say that there is no point in going to a concert. They are just entertainment. Except for the school concert, of course, that's not entertainment at all. Real concerts won't help you get ahead.
David: That's certainly their charm. You'll be there one day anyway.
Jenny (heartily): I'll go. I know. Sometimes the point of studying hard seems to be that. If I go to college, I can see what I want to see, think what I want, and listen to what I want to hear. I would go to art exhibitions, watch French films, and chat with learned people.
David: Good. Which university do you want to go to?
Jenny: Oxford. If lucky. Did you go to college?
David: I went to a so-called social university. Didn't get a good degree there.
Jenny (smiles): My house is here. thanks.
She got out of the car with the cello. David watched her back and drove away.
11. INT. Jenny's living room, afternoon
Jenny, her parents, and Graham had afternoon tea with fresh fish sauce sandwiches and two-tone cakes.
Marjorie: How is your mother, Graham?
Graham: She's fine, thank you. She brings you.
Jack: Which college did you apply to, Graham?
Jenny looked embarrassed. She knew what to say next.
Graham: I'm not sure yet.
Jack: So when can you be sure? You know, don't let grass grow under your feet (meaning wasting time). Otherwise you will be left behind.
Jenny (faced): I think so. I think the grass that grows will make you lose your balance, then you will fall, and when you get up again, you will have a line.
Her father glared at her - why so presumptuous?
Graham: I might take a year off.
Jenny frowned. Jack stared at him as if he had just said that he was going to strip all his clothes off.
Jack: Do what?
Graham (vague): I don't know yet. Maybe go on a trip, something like that.
Jack: Travel? Do you think you are male Afei?
Close-up of Jenny - she knows what's going on and she can't take it anymore. Pause.
JACK (nodding to Jenny) You know she's going to Oxford? Oxford. English major. If we can get her Latin up to par.
Jenny sighed.
Jack: So when she was studying English at Oxford, you were a wandering Jew...
Jenny looked at him curiously. Graham plucked up the courage to say.
Graham: Mr. Mailer...I'm not a man. I am a steady young man. (Non-standard French) Steady youth.
Jenny frowned again. Her father stared at Graham. Graham blushed.
12. INT, Jenny's House, Evening
Youth Orchestra Concert Night. Jenny and her parents were busy going out. Jack is carrying the cello. Jenny was wearing her school uniform, her hair pulled back in a simple ponytail. The three of them panicked. Jenny opened the front door for her father, who stumbled and stumbled out the door.
Jenny: Oh!
12A. Interior/Exterior, Jenny's House, Evening
Jenny saw something on the doorstep. She bent down and picked it up—a big bunch of flowers.
Jenny: It's for me!
Marjorie (curious): Who gave it?
Jenny opened the card attached to the flower.
Jenny: Ahhh. It's him.
Marjorie: Who is "he"?
Jenny: Just... a guy I know.
Marjorie: A flower delivery guy? So he is a man?
Jenny: Yes, he's a man.
Jack stared suspiciously at the flower. This bunch of flowers caused some kind of panic and fear in his heart, like a biological and chemical weapon attack.
Jack: What's the matter?
Marjorie (coldly, knowing it's going to cause trouble): Jack, there's a guy who's giving Jenny flowers.
Jack: There's a guy? how is it like? who is it? Why send flowers?
Jenny (patience): He wished me luck tonight.
Jack: Are you sure that's all he wants? Where did he get the money from?
Jenny: I think he earned it.
Jack: What do you mean, the money he made? Why didn't he go to school? What does he do?
Jenny: Let's go. Otherwise, the flowers that wish good luck will make me late. How ironic.
Jack: I don't like it.
Marjorie: Objections heard. Jenny?
Jenny: I hear you.
Jack: This bunch of flowers is not cheap. Giving it to a female student is too much. You can't put it here. If a flower like this was outside the house, I would want to burglar. People will think our family is rich.
12B. INT. Jenny's House, Evening
Jenny sighed, put the flowers in the house, and closed the door.
13. INTERIOR, CAFE, DAY
Jenny sits with two school friends, Hattie and Tina, drinking coffee in a typical late 1950s-style cafe. Jenny is without a doubt the brightest of the three girls - and probably the smartest. They were all in school uniforms—without any fashionable accessories. Jenny smoked a cigarette with some pretentiousness. Tina slurped the foam from the coffee inelegantly with a spoon. Jenny tutted her dissatisfaction. Tina sighed and put down the spoon.
Jenny: Camus doesn't want you to like him. What he wants to say is that feelings are petty bourgeoisie. His mother died and he didn't feel anything.
Tina: I wouldn't feel anything if my mother died. So am I an existentialist?
Jenny: No. That means you are a cow.
Hattie (French): A cow.
laughter.
14. EXTERIOR, STREET/CAFE, DAY
Jenny, Hattie, and Tina came out of the cafe, talking.
Jenny: I want to be French. I'm going to Paris, smoking, wearing black...
She suddenly stopped. A red Bristol was parked outside a smoke shop across the road. She saw David coming out of the shop with a copy of The Times and a box of cigars. Jenny crossed the road to talk to him, and Hattie and Tina watched dumbly.
David: Hello.
Jenny: Hello. thank you.
David: How was the concert?
Jenny: Not bad. I think. I mean, I didn't play my part. No one was kicked out of the orchestra after that either.
David: That's always a sign of cultural success. listen. I'm glad to meet you again. what are you doing this friday
Jenny: Go to school.
David: I mean night.
Jenny (embarrassed): Oh. Yes. Of course. Nothing.
David: Because I'm going to a Schubert concert in St. John's Smith Square. My friends Danny and Helen are going too, so it won't be... let's put it that way. I'm coming to pick you up, and if your parents don't agree, you go with one of them with your ticket. How about it?
Jenny didn't know what to say. She looked at David, whose eagerness to please her seemed to convince her.
Jenny: Thank you. I want you to take me there. I want to go with someone who knows when to applaud.
David: I usually watch Danny. He does this kind of thing.
Jenny smiled slightly.
David: 7 o'clock? We might have a late night snack later, if you...but if you are, if not...we'll put you in a taxi anyway.
Jenny (skeptically): Supper.
David: If you don't mind.
Jenny: The problem is. We had already had dinner by then.
David: I mean, if you want to eat, then on Friday you can… skip it?
Jenny (embarrassed again): Oh. Yes. sure.
Jenny smiled and crossed the road to meet her friend. Tina and Hattie stood there with their mouths slightly open, surprised. Jenny said nothing and continued walking.
Tina: I'm sorry. I just had the strangest dream ever. I dreamed that you were crossing the road talking to a handsome guy who had the most beautiful car I've ever seen. Then you walk back without a word.
Jenny gave a mysterious smile. Tina grabbed Jenny impatiently.
Jenny (relaxed, casual): Just a guy who wanted to pick me up to the Friday night concert. Then have supper together.
Tina (screaming): Supper?
Jenny: Did you hear about the late night?
Hattie: We've heard. But never eaten.
Jenny: I noticed that neither of you were interested in the concert part.
Hattie: No. Of course I am interested.
Tina: Oh my gosh! I just thought of it! what will happen to you? Just look at her! The man wants to pick her up on the street and take her to supper!
Hattie: Oh my gosh, you're right, Tina. I haven't thought of that yet. Just look at her.
Jenny: Don't be crazy.
Tina: We also have to try to get the boys' attention. You have more to say.
Jenny: Why?
Hattie: Because no man asked us out for supper. You have to be honest with us about everything. Otherwise it's not fair.
Jenny: But there's nothing more to say.
Tina: Then make it up.
15. INT. Jenny's House, Evening
Jenny dresses up to go out. She looked good, but she was cramped and uncomfortable—she seemed to be a different person in the dress, much more mature than her actual age. Her father stood before her, shouting.
Jack: I'm not allowed!
Jenny (calmly): Okay. He was happy to let you take me there.
Jack (unsure): Okay. I'll take you.
Jenny: That's good.
Jack: Where are you?
Jenny: Smith Square in St. John's.
Jack: Where is that?
Jenny: I don't know. Believe we can always find it.
Marjorie entered the room.
Marjorie: In Westminster. Just around the corner from Westminster Abbey.
Jack looked at her as if she had just given directions to the nearest opium den.
Jack: How did you know?
Marjorie: You know I had a social life before I got married.
Jenny: But it was quickly stopped by him.
Jack: Near Westminster Abbey. I'm not going to run all the way there.
Jenny: The problem is, that's where St. John's Smith Square is.
Jack: I said it. I will not go. There must be some show around here. Where are the newspapers?
Marjorie: Jack, she wants to enjoy a professional performer. It's not about the skills of a three-legged cat. I take her there.
Jack: How did you get there? In an RAF helicopter?
Doorbell rang.
Jenny: It's him.
Jack: Oh, hell.
Marjorie: Jack!
Jenny walked towards the door, then turned around.
Jenny: Oh, by the way...David is Jewish. A wandering Jew. So be careful.
She went to the door.
JACK (panicked, yelling): What is she talking about? I never said anything like that! Isn't it just an expression! I have nothing against the Jews!
Jenny led David back into the house, who was dressed stylishly in the casual attire of a young executive in the early 1960s—sport jacket, slacks, cashmere jumper. He looked out of place with his surroundings, he was too bright, too colorful, and seemed to be exotic.
David apparently heard Jack's last words.
DAVID (kindly): Glad to hear that. Hi. I'm David Goldman.
He stretched out his hand.
Jack: I don't mean against you...actually it's not that I don't mean that because I'm not, but...
Jenny: Dad!
David's hand was still outstretched - to his bewilderment and embarrassment, Jack hadn't grasped it yet. Now he's holding it, and holding it for a long time.
Jack: Sorry. I mean you're not the kind of person I'd be against, if I were the kind of person against... people, you're not old... ah. I'm Jack and she's Marjorie.
DAVID (faced) You didn't tell me you had a sister, Jenny.
Everyone was at a loss. David giggled playfully. Marjorie laughed, too, and held out her hand.
David: You're lucky, Jack.
Jack: I think so.
All seated.
David: Ouch. (He looks around approvingly) It's very nice here.
Marjorie (smiling): Thank you.
Jack: Excuse me, David. Did I pour you a drink?
David: I did, Jack, but it's getting late. If Jenny's ready, we'll probably have to go.
Jenny looked at her father and gambled in her heart.
Jenny: Dad has something to tell you.
Jack: No, no, nothing... just a problem. How do you get to St John's Smith Square from here? For future reference.
David: Oh, no detours, actually. Go directly to Hammersmith and take the A4 to Kensington.
Jack: It's that simple.
David: It's that simple.
Jack grinned.
Marjorie (joking): Want me to book a ticket?
Jake (still laughing): No. (Pause) Be back before 10, David. Usually she's going to bed by then.
Jenny frowned.
David: I was going to take Jenny and my aunt Helen for a late night snack later.
Jenny looked at him carefully. His friends Danny and Helen suddenly became "Aunt Helen".
Jack: Oh, I think...
David: I promise to bring her back by 11:30, is that ok?
Jack: It's Friday night. If you go to the West End of London...
David: Thanks, Jack. Thank you very much. goodbye.
They shook hands warmly. He turned to Marjorie. Marjorie held out her hand. David held it, but gave it a gentle kiss, which made Marjorie a little flustered.
Marjorie: Have a good day.
Jenny: Goodbye.
Jenny and David left.
JACK (sniffs what smells): What smells? Did he wear perfume?
Marjorie: That's an after-shave lotion, Jack.
15A. EXTERNAL, St. John's Smith Square, Evening
Jenny and David walked to the beautiful hall. Among the adults wandering outside the hall, Jenny suddenly looked young. Women don't dress up like little girls. Danny and Helen were waiting outside, almost thirty years old and charismatic. Helen is far from what one might imagine an aunt to be like. She was as beautiful as Jenny, but more well-dressed and eye-catching. Her high profile ability Jenny is currently out of reach. Danny is also attractive, but modestly unassuming. In contrast to them, David and Jenny seem to a certain extent dim, not very outstanding.
David: Hello. Hi. Are we late?
Helen: I also hope we miss the opening so it's not worth going in, and then we can go dancing or something.
Danny: Helen was one of the least entertaining audience members tonight.
Jenny and David smiled politely.
David: Jenny, my friends Helen and Danny.
Jenny shook hands with them. They all looked at Jenny critically. They have heard of her.
DAVID (continued): Come in.
They entered the hall.
16. INT. JOHN'S SMITH SQUARE, NIGHT
It was a beautiful hall - Jenny was amazed by the surroundings and the people around. Helen especially surprised her.
Helen: Look. We can put the coat over there. I don't want to hold it.
Helen pointed to the coat in her hand. Jenny looked excited at the thought of spending a few minutes alone with Helen. Without saying a word, Danny gave Helen his coat. Jenny and Helen walked to another counter a few yards away, behind which was a laundry room. Jenny involuntarily touched the sleeve of Helen's velvety coat. She took it off. Helen had noticed.
Jenny: Excuse me.
Helen (amused): It's alright. Pretty, right?
Jenny: Very pretty.
Helen stared at Jenny's dress, obviously wanting to return the same compliment.
Helen (signs Jenny's dress): That's... perfect for today's concert, isn't it?
Jenny (quietly): Thank you.
Helen was now at the front of the line, handing over her coat arrogantly.
Helen: If you want, we can go shopping together someday.
She took a voucher from the waiter.
Jenny: Not bad. But where you buy clothes I'm afraid... too expensive for me (French).
They looked at each other. Helen was stunned, and Jenny looked embarrassed.
Helen: What did you say?
Jenny: I said...too expensive for me.
Helen: No, you didn't say that just now. You said something else entirely.
Jenny: I just... um, in French.
Helen: speak French? why?
Jenny felt ashamed. She hadn't realized yet - Helen was actually very slow.
Jenny: I don't know.
Jenny turned her face away. Helen stared at her. The opening bell rang and they walked back. To Jenny's surprise and joy, Helen took her arm and walked together.
Helen: Actually, I also think it is quite expensive. Do not worry. If you want to shop, let David take you there.
Jenny: Why is he willing to take me shopping?
Helen made a face, meaning tacit.
17. INT. JOHN'S SMITH SQUARE, NIGHT
David, Jenny, Danny and Helen sat in the middle row of the auditorium, watching the stage and listening to the music. Jenny couldn't concentrate—the occasion, the company, made her so excited. Jenny stole a glance at Helen, who looked straight ahead without blinking, looking mysterious. David smiled slightly, as if conveying some kind of pleasure. Danny's eyes light up - he understands music, he understands the parts of music, he knows what the musicians contribute to the music. Jenny saw it all.
18. EXTERIOR, St. John's Smith Square, night
Jenny, David, Danny and Helen walked out of the hall with the crowd.
David: I got a seat at Juliet's House. Will not sweep your Yaxing?
Helen: Oh, I hope so.
Everyone else laughed.
Helen: I always feel like I'm mourning myself every time I listen to classical music. (hesitates) Classical music, right?
Danny: Yes. quite classical. The most classical music you can hear.
Helen looked happy.
David: Juliet's House is here. Let's just hope we don't end tonight's party in a funeral atmosphere.
Jenny smiled happily. She had never met such a person.
19. INT. JULIET'S HOUSE NIGHTCLUB, NIGHT
A singer was singing "The Mood of Love," and smoking women and beautiful waitresses walked around the table.
Jenny sat at a table with the others, eating and chatting. We now know that her life will never be the same again, the days of eating fish sauce sandwiches with acne-prone Graham.
David: Have you heard of "Singing Francois Sagan"?
Jenny shook her head. Her eyes were wide open - clearly in awe. David gave her a cigarette and she took it. David helped her light a cigarette, and she listened to the music.
Danny: Oh, great.
Jenny: All I have is... well, I think it's called Juliet Greco. It's the one with the eyes on the record sleeve. I saved up to have my French conversation teacher bring it to me after Christmas.
Helen: Do you have a French conversation teacher?
Jenny: Yeah.
Helen: That's why you suddenly speak French for no reason?
Danny (ignoring her): You must have seen her sing?
Jenny shook her head again and smiled. Where did she go to see Juliet Greco? As for Danny, he was rather confused. Who hasn't seen Juliette Greco?
David: She's extraordinary.
Danny: But you should see her in Paris, not here. David will take you there.
David: I'd love to. you are right.
Helen (approvingly): Much better than here, really.
David: It's nice to find a young man who wants to know everything. There are so many things I want to take you to see.
They sipped their drinks, presumably trying to make time disappear into the smoke.
David: Do you still have time to see the Pembroke Villas with me on Friday, Danny?
Danny: Oh, no. Friday Christie's auction house Burne-Jones (note 3) works. I want.
Jenny (laughs skeptically) Do you want to buy a Burne-Jones? Authentic?
Danny: I have a hunch that Pre-Raphaelite works are going to skyrocket.
Jenny: I like the pre-Raphaelite style.
DAVID (excited): Really?
Jenny: Yeah, of course. Rossetti and Burne-Jones are good. Not a big fan of Holman Hunter though. He is too fancy.
Danny looked at her. This female student had more connotation than he thought.
David: Exactly! Why don't we all go to the auction together? Wouldn't it be more fun?
Jenny: Auction. Omg. So exciting.
Danny: Next Friday morning. Dave will pick you up.
Jenny (depressed): Oh, Friday.
Danny: Are you busy?
Jenny: Hmm. Yes.
She didn't want to explain why.
Danny: Unlucky (French).
Helen looked at him dumbfounded. Why does he speak French?
David: Are you really free?
Jenny (hesitating): No. I think I can rearrange...arrange. It will be a pleasure for sure.
20. INT. Jenny's house, night
Jenny walked quietly into the house. The hallway was dark, but she heard noises from the kitchen. She probed around the corner and saw her mother washing dishes.
Marjorie: Oh, hello, dear. Are you having a good time?
Jenny: what are you doing?
Marjorie: This casserole dish never gets clean. Tonight we had canned beef with potatoes and the edges were burnt...
Jenny: It's 11:35. We finished eating at 7 o'clock.
Marjorie: I know what time it is. How was your evening?
Jenny: It was...the best night of my life.
Marjorie: Did he drive you home? Delivered to the door?
Jenny looked at her. She didn't seem to hear what her mother was saying just now.
Jenny: Good night, Mom.
Marjorie: I'm glad you enjoyed the concert.
21. INTERIOR, CLASSROOM, DAY
Jenny, Hattie and Tina were sitting at their desks waiting for class. Eight or nine classmates scattered around the classroom chatting. Jenny and her friends chatted hotly: Tina and Hattie leaned forward, their eyes sparkling as they listened to Jenny. They were visibly amazed by the stories of the outside world that Jenny told them.
TINA (to Hattie): I'm not interested in Schubert. I wonder what else is on the schedule.
laughter.
Jenny: Don't think about it. He is a complete gentleman. He just said he wanted to take me to many places to see many things.
Tina: A lot of stuff? Oh my God!
More laughter. Miss Stubbs, the English teacher, came into the room full of energy, noticing the excitement of Jenny's gang.
Miss Stubbs: I knew that Jane Eyre would eventually work its magic on you. I guess you guys are excited about it?
The students began to take their seats in the chairs.
Jenny: Of course.
Tina: Jane Eyre and Jenny's new boyfriend.
Jenny: He's not my "new boyfriend". Omg.
Tina: That's right. He's more of a male friend, isn't he? He has a sports car, Miss Stubbs.
Miss Stubbs: Ah. A man like Mr. Rochester.
Tina: I think he must be as blind as Mr. Rochester.
laughter. Jenny made a face at her.
Miss Stubbs: As you may be aware, I'm trying to divert the conversation from Jenny's flamboyant love life to the subject at hand.
She started writing.
Miss Stubbs: And everything shows that most of you know a great deal about the former and almost nothing about the latter. Reluctantly though, I must admit that Jenny is very good at both. Excellent as always, Jenny.
Miss Stubbs snapped the composition down on Jenny's desk. We see "A+" written on it.
22. INT. Jenny's bedroom, night
Jenny is sitting at the desk doing her homework. She put her pen down and lost her mind.
23. INT. DAVID'S CAR, DAY
David waited in his Bristol car.
24. exterior, school, daytime
The Bristol car was parked outside, Jenny walked towards it, and a small figure appeared on the huge playground. She had taken off her school uniform and put on casual clothes. Jenny was almost petrified as a teacher walked up to her - but the teacher just smiled kindly and walked over. Jenny continued to walk at a constant speed for a while, then began to run.
25. INTERIOR/EXTERIOR, CAR/DISTRICTED HOUSE, DAY
Jenny and David drove down North Kensington Street.
Jenny: How did you meet Danny?
David's mind is not focused. He drove slowly, apparently looking for an address.
David: Oh, you know. We met a lot, so we became buddies, and then we did things together.
Jenny: What kind of thing?
David: Real estate. Some artworks are traded, bought and sold...
He stopped the car.
David: I'll be back in a minute.
He got out of the car and Jenny watched him cross the road.
Outside a dilapidated house stood a large family, a mother, a father, three or four children and a dog. All around them seemed to be all their belongings. David crouched down to talk to the kids, messing up the youngest's hair. Then he pulled out a set of keys and led the family to the door. He opened the door and led them inside.
In an upstairs window of the house we see an old woman looking down anxiously.
26. EXTERIOR, street/shabby house, daytime
David came out of the house with the keys jingling.
27. Interior, car, daytime
Jenny opened the glove box in the car, took out a pack of cigarettes, pulled one herself, and handed the pack to David. He lit the cigarette.
David: Sorry for the long wait.
Jenny: How did you know these, these... black people?
David: They are all clients.
Jenny: Clients?
David: Dear Jenny, even the Schwarzers have to find a place to live. But you can't do it alone, can you?
He started the car and left.
Jenny: I still don't quite understand what you're doing.
David: You don't need to understand. That's so boring. You just need to know that I'm in real estate so I can take you to fancy places.
Jenny's subjective point of view shot: The black man appears in one window, the old woman disappears from the other window.
28. INT. Christie's auction house, daytime
Danny was concentrating on a catalogue, and Helen stared forward in a trance. David and Jenny struggled through the crowded auction hall. The auctioneer muttered in the background.
Danny: You almost missed it.
Jenny marvels at how colorful London is. The auctioneer clears his throat.
Auctioneer: Now we turn to Lot 41, The Tree of Forgiveness by Edward Burne-Jones. This is a rare opportunity to buy a major Pre-Raphaelite work. Starting at 500 guineas, does anyone want it?
Jenny glanced at Danny quickly. He did not respond to the price. Neither did the others. He was calm and listened carefully.
Auctioneer: What about 200?
A middle-aged woman wearing a two-piece sweater, pearl jewelry, and a thick powder on her face raised her hand.
Auctioneer: Thank you, ma'am. 300?
A man also raised his hand.
Auctioneer: Is it 350?
The middle-aged woman nodded.
Auctioneer: It's your turn, sir. 400 guineas? thanks. 450…
Danny continued to sit there. Jenny was puzzled. The middle-aged woman bid 450. David, who was sitting next to Danny, whispered to him. Danny nodded.
DAVID (whispering to Jenny) It's your turn.
Jenny looked at him.
Auctioneer: No higher bids?
David: Come on!
Jenny raised her hand high, like in school.
Auctioneer: An eager new buyer bid 500 guineas.
Everyone looked around and smiled when they saw Jenny. Jenny blushed, but her eyes were fixed straight ahead.
Auctioneer: 550, ma'am? thanks.
Jenny looked at David and he nodded.
Auctioneer: 600 guineas.
Jenny continued gesturing.
Auctioneer: 650? Thank you, ma'am. It's already 700...
This time Jenny was almost nonchalant.
Auctioneer: 700?
When asked if she offered 700, the middle-aged woman shook her head and pursed her lips.
Auctioneer: 650 guineas sold. thanks.
He tapped the gavel, and the room was full of murmurs. Jenny was so excited, she giggled. David patted her on the back.
Auctioneer: What's your name?
Jenny looked at Danny.
Danny: You know what your name is.
Jenny (to Danny): Jenny Mailer.
Danny: I know your name too. tell him.
Jenny (out loud to the auctioneer): Jenny Mailer.
Danny: Thank you. I can't buy it without you.
David: Well done. Show composure.
Jenny was all smiles and excited.
29. INT. Danny's apartment, daytime
A uniquely decorated, tasteful, bohemian apartment on the second floor of Bedford Square. The living room is beautiful, spacious and airy. Danny sipping white wine, she walked fascinatedly around the room, looking at Danny's collection of Pre-Raphaelite art. Danny proudly hangs three or four huge paintings on the walls. He told Jenny about the pictures, while Helen and Davy sat on the sofa watching them—David smug, Helen unmoved.
Danny: A few years ago you could get them for just £50. Nobody is interested in them.
Jenny: Really? £50? Can't believe it.
Jenny suddenly saw a cello in the corner of the room—a very good one.
Jenny: Could it be Rocky Hill?
Danny: Few of the people who come here say that.
Helen: Of course not me.
Jenny: So beautiful. will you pull?
Danny: Pulled before. I once swore that I must have such a piano. Now that I have it, I don't touch it. It's tacky to put there as a display.
Helen: Then give it to Jenny.
Danny: That's more vulgar.
David: Give us a song, Jenny.
Jenny: Stop it. I'll talk about it someday when I'm good enough to practice.
David: She's good enough now.
Jenny: Oh, David. You haven't heard me pull.
Danny stood up and stretched.
David: I'll go to Smith Square in St. John's to hear you play. Or wait until you go to Oxford and listen there.
Danny: We should go to Oxford for the weekend. Straw hats, river rafting, cream refreshments, vintage bookstores. By the way to see if there is any business to do. How about next weekend?
David/Helen: Good!
Jenny: Going out for a weekend? They won't agree.
Everyone looked at her.
David: I'll figure it out. I talk to them.
Jenny: Who are you talking to?
David: Jack and Marjorie.
Jenny: Talking about what?
David: The thing about going to Oxford.
Jenny hisses mockingly.
Jenny: Go ask my father if he can go out for the weekend with you? He will arrest you.
David: Let's see.
Jenny: I bet you can't.
David: How much to bet?
Danny (amused): Be careful, Jenny. You don't know who you are dealing with.
Jenny: Half a crown.
David: The deal.
They shake hands. Jenny suddenly noticed the clock on Danny's mantelpiece.
Jenny: OMG (French)! You have to take me back to school. I have to change back to my school uniform.
A moment of silence. Danny's and David's eyes met briefly - they were clearly thinking about the meaning of Jenny's last words. Helen noticed this.
Helen: Oh, you behave yourself.
Jenny looked at them, puzzled.
30. INT. CLASSROOM/LATIN CLASS, DAY
Jenny is waiting for her Latin class. Tina and Hattie were not with her, she was sitting in her seat - the atmosphere in Latin class was very different from Miss Stubbs' English class. The girls also behaved differently, more serious, no longer giggling, and the atmosphere was more gloomy. Mrs. Wilson, the Latin teacher, was older, simpler, more severe. She took some exam papers out of her bag.
Mrs Wilson: Results of a translation examination of Virgil's poems. We start with the person with the lowest score... Patricia.
Jenny puffed out her cheeks. Luckily she wasn't the last one.
MRS WILSON (continued) Absent. Margaret, 48 points. Jenny...
Jenny frowned.
Mrs. Wilson (continued): 52 points. Barely pass the exam. However, it does not meet the standards for admission to Oxford.
31. INT. Jenny's house, daytime
Jenny and her mother sat on the sofa in frustration. On the coffee table in front of them lay exam papers full of red ink marks. They heard the sound of the key being unlocked and looked at each other.
Marjorie: I'll talk to him.
Jack came home from get off work. He was wearing a suit and carrying an old briefcase. He looked at them and noticed the exam papers on the coffee table.
Jack: Is it her Latin exam?
Marjorie: The test was...not very good, not as good as we expected.
Jack picked up the test paper.
Jack: You also said that I shouldn't go over and argue with the Latin teacher what's the name. It's so desperate.
Jenny: How do you "argue things over" with her? What are you going to do? Shout out to her until she admits I'm way smarter than she thinks?
Marjorie: Everyone did their best, Jack.
Jack: If they try their best and it's not good enough, eh? What shall we do then?
Jenny: We're not going to Oxford. No one will go. Even you, Dad.
Jack: Maybe it's all a waste of time and money.
Marjorie: You're not telling the truth.
Jack: What is she doing with this English degree? If she spends three years playing that damn cello and speaking French to the Beats, my money's going to be wasted. I think she might meet a decent lawyer. But this kind of person will only be met at tomorrow's dinner dance.
Marjorie: Would you like a tutor?
Jack: Don't you understand? How much will it cost me?
Marjorie: Five shillings an hour. Maybe more if you want to get an A.
Jack: 5 shillings! But... 5 shillings here, 5 shillings there, and by the time we know it, our savings will be gone.
Marjorie: Where did we spend five shillings? Or where did you spend 6p?
Jack: Oh, nothing. (Move around the room.) All for free. That vase is also free.
Marjorie: It's actually free. It was given by Aunt Wei.
Jack: This chair and this sofa are free. We don't have to spend any money. Such is the wonderful life, Jenny. Everything is free. They all grow on trees. Wonderful, isn't it? There's a lovely Oxford tree in the garden, and you're in luck, and your Oxford tuition has fallen. If an entire garden were a school tree, everything would cost nothing. I'm sure there are some tutoring fee trees out there. I'll go take a look.
Marjorie: Jack...
Jack: I'll be back in a minute. I think I saw some in the back, right next to the pocket money tree. I'm going to see how they're growing. We don't want someone coming over the wall and stealing the fruit, do we? Maybe there will be a rich boy there. Because God knows we need to find one for you.
He left the room, apparently going to the garden to find those sacred trees.
31A. INT. Jenny's house, daytime
Jenny and her mother went to the window and watched Jack playfully talk to the trees.
32. EXTERIOR, STREET/CAFE, DAY
Jenny, Hattie and Tina come home from school.
Tina: You can also go to secretarial school with Hattie.
Jenny (sarcastically): Oh, thanks.
Hattie: Hate!
Jenny: Oh, no.
Hattie and Tina followed Jenny's line of sight to see Graham pushing his bicycle toward them, his face flushed and his trousers tucked into his socks.
Graham: Hello.
Jenny: Oh, Graham. Hi.
Graham: Haven't seen you in a long time... everything went wrong, didn't it? I mean tea party. Is it because I said take a year off?
Jenny: No. It's just...because I have a lot of homework to do, otherwise I won't get the grades I want.
Tina: Yes. She doesn't have time to socialize with boys.
Hattie and Tina held back their laughter. Graham's blush deepened. Hattie and Tina entered the cafe. Jenny felt bad for Graham and almost invited him in...but changed her mind.
Jenny (speaking quickly) Goodbye, Graham.
She went in behind her companion.
33. INT Jenny's Bedroom/Upstairs Hallway, Night
Jenny buried herself in her homework. A Latin glossary was spread out on the windowsill. She watched for a while, then walked away, muttering to herself, trying to remember the vocabulary. Suddenly there was a burst of laughter from downstairs, interrupting her concentration.
34. INT. Jenny's Foyer, Night
Jenny stood outside the living room for a while, listening to the movement inside. She heard a man's voice, but not his father, and then her parents' laughter.
35. INTERIOR, LIVING ROOM, NIGHT
David is showing off his ability to imitate, imitating the oddities of all the naive actors. Jack and Marjorie laughed so hard they didn't even notice that Jenny had come in.
Jenny (curious): Hello.
Jack: Oh, hello. David is so talented, Jenny. He can actually imitate all the silly actors.
David: But it's not like Eccles.
Jack: Oh no, you've got his...
Jenny (impatiently) But what is he doing here?
David: I don't want to disturb you. I know you have to study hard.
Jenny (can't believe it): Are you coming to see my parents?
Jack: Is it hard to imagine?
Jenny saw an open bottle of wine on the coffee table.
Jenny: Did you drink? It's not Christmas!
Jack: Listen to her! Sounds like we've vowed to quit drinking. You know, you don't know enough about us. We also had our lives before you were born.
Jenny: Yes, indeed. I only know you guys that I've seen for 16 years.
Marjorie: I try to think about what you don't know. Can't figure out how much.
Jack: They just don't like me being happy.
Jenny: You go on. I still have a bunch of Latin translations to do.
Jack: You didn't tell me that David was from Oxford.
Jenny looked at David, and he looked at her solemnly.
Jenny: I didn't say that.
David: I benefited a lot.
Jack: What did you read?
David: Oh, English. Like every idle semi-freelancer in London.
Jake (surprised by coincidence): English! which college?
David: Merton College.
Marjorie: Isn't it funny?
Jenny: It's so funny.
David: I just told Jack that I'm going back next weekend. Drop by my professor.
Jack: This is what you need, Jenny. Get to know more people in college.
David: Exactly. Clive would love Jenny. Have you met Clive Lewis?
Jenny: Dad hasn't seen anyone.
David: I just thought he might know some books.
Jenny: Dad didn't read any books.
Jake (stimulated): What books has he written?
David: He wrote a children's book called The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, which sold well.
Marjorie: Is it CS Lewis? Is this Clive you're talking about?
David: Well, for us it's the weird old man teaching medieval literature. But I know him very well. We just... get along, you know what I mean?
Everyone whispered that they understood.
Marjorie: Jenny used to be obsessed with those books.
David: Ahhh. I was there when he wrote those books.
Jenny: I'd love to meet him.
There was a brief silence. Jack and Marjorie stared at the floor. Somehow, David mobilized a situation where he became the one being asked the question.
David: Sorry. Am I unresponsive. Would Jenny come with me on the weekend?
Jack: Not this weekend. Another day, thanks.
Jenny: How often do you see him?
David: Oh, let's meet once in a few years. But next time, eh?
Jenny (disappointed): Hopefully I'll be there then.
Jake (unsure): Well, I mean... does she have to spend the night there?
David: I don't want to drive back after dinner in Oxford.
Jack smiled knowingly.
David: Clive will find her a room in the academy. a piece of cake.
Marjorie: Sounds like a great opportunity.
Jenny: Please, Dad. It is useful to know things about that place.
Jack: Won't trouble you, David?
David: I'd love to.
Jack, Marjorie, and Jenny were all smiling.
36. INTERIOR, FOYER, NIGHT
Jenny opened the door for David.
Jenny (whispering): Shameful.
David: I told you. You owe me half a crown.
He kissed her on the cheek and disappeared into the night.
37. INT. Danny's apartment, daytime
David and Danny waited for the ladies to dress up. Danny stretched out and sat lazily in the armchair. David paced up and down.
David: Come on!
38. INT. Helen's bedroom, daytime
A four-poster bed takes up most of the room. Helen is busy with Jenny. We can't see it.
Helen: Almost there!
39. INT. Danny's apartment, daytime
David: Why isn't it okay?
Danny: I'm not surprised that it took me so long to turn out a living person. This is the only explanation. Ladies! Let's go.
40. INT. Helen's bedroom, daytime
Jenny was wearing the skimpy calico dress Helen had given her, and the room was littered with pretty clothes. Jenny was sitting at the dresser and Helen was doing her makeup. Jenny looked three or four years older than her age, more mature... more like Helen. She couldn't believe her eyes. She looked at herself in the mirror and almost stopped breathing for a moment.
Helen: Alright. I'll give it to you. I still have a lot of clothes.
Jenny wakes up from a dream.
Jenny (excited): Really? thank you.
Helen: What about tonight? Do you need a nightgown?
Jenny: Pajamas?
Jenny suddenly understood what Helen meant.
Jenny: Do we live together?
Helen: You haven't slept with him yet?
Jenny: No. not yet.
Helen: That's fine.
Jenny: Really? do you think so?
Helen: You're only 16 years old. Don't want to get pregnant so early, do you?
Jenny: Oh, I wouldn't let that happen. I want to wait until I'm 17 to do it. Hopefully on my 17th birthday.
Helen: And David?
Jenny (pauses): Um... with David, I think, no?
Helen: When is your birthday?
Jenny: In April.
Helen: Oh. I'll get you a nightgown first.
Jenny stared at herself in the mirror again.
41. INT. Danny's apartment, daytime
The women finally came out. The two men stared at Jenny, who had changed. David couldn't avert his eyes.
Danny: Can we... go?
He stood up.
42. Interior/Exterior, Auto/Highway, Daytime
Bristol car on the road to Oxford.
43. Interior/Exterior, Auto/Oxford, Daytime
Bristol cars drive through Oxford. Jenny glanced quickly at the dream spire.
Danny: Think about being here for three years.
Helen: You can imagine.
She shuddered, as if someone had walked past her grave.
Jenny: Can I stop the car?
David: Wait a minute. We still have a few things to do.
44. Interior/Exterior, Auto/Oxford's Backstreet, Daytime
The Bristol car was parked outside a house on Oxford's backstreet, with Jenny and Helen in the back seat of the car. Danny and David are nowhere to be seen. Jenny sighed impatiently.
Helen: Oh, always. A lot of places I haven't seen because I'm stuck here.
Jenny: You never got out of the car?
Helen: There's not much to go where they park.
Jenny looked out the window. This is absolutely true.
45. Interior, bar, evening
Helen stands with Danny, Jenny and David in an old-fashioned bar.
David holds a pen in one hand and a book in the other - The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
David: You mean writing Clive? or CS?
Helen: I'm confused. Didn't he make it up?
Danny (trying to be patient): No, we… nothing.
David went to the nearest table and wrote in the book.
David: Here you go.
He got up and handed the book to Jenny.
Jenny (reading): "To dear Jenny. Nice to meet you. Hope to see you soon. Clive."
Helen: Old woman.
laughter. David took a swig of bitter beer. A group of students came in, all with musical instruments. They stood in the bar, waiting for someone to serve them. Jenny stared at them—she wanted to be one of them. And Helen looked at them differently.
Helen (whispering): Why do college girls look so weird?
Helen was right. The schoolgirls all wear glasses and dress out of style. Others are amused.
Helen: That's right. They can't be born like this. Yes or no? Most girls are not born ugly, but most female students are ugly. It must have been infected by the atmosphere here, making them fat, acne-prone, or small-eyed.
David: If you look at it that way... I mean, it's sound scientific analysis. You can't compete with science.
Helen looked happy.
Helen: I still don't know what you're here for.
Jenny: I want to study English.
Helen: Books?
Jenny: What?
Helen: Do you want to read English books?
Jenny: There's another meaning to reading English that...
Danny: Stop explaining, Jenny. You are talking in vain.
David: Anyway, let's get a feel for this place tomorrow.
Danny: Not really. This place is suitable for small business.
David's eyes met Jenny's. That's not what he meant by "get a good feel of the place".
Danny: Those old ladies hanging out... I bet this place is full of stats.
Jenny: What is a stat. I always hear you mention it.
David: Nothing. very boring stuff.
Jenny smiled.
46. INTERIOR, HOTEL ROOM, NIGHT
A hotel room with no romance at all—its curtains are even as dated as Jenny's living room. David lay on the bed in his underwear, his hands on his head, waiting for Jenny. The room is illuminated by 40-watt chandeliers, which does not show any romantic atmosphere. Jenny came into the room, wearing Helen's nightgown, soft, sleek and attractive, but out of place for the environment. She looked a little nervous.
Jenny: The curtains here are exactly the same as mine.
David: Forget the curtains. You are beautiful and such a princess.
Jenny was about to go to bed, but David's tone made her stop beside the bed.
Jenny: There's something I want you to know, David. I'm...well, I'm still a virgin. I want to keep my virginity until I'm 17.
David: I think that's fine. is right. To celebrate your 17th birthday, I will take you to Paris, or Rome, or Florence, and make you feel like the most beautiful princess in the kingdom of love. But we can still be romantic, can't we?
Jenny: Yes, of course. Just don't...
David: Minnie...
Jenny: Are you calling me?
David: Yeah. You are my Minnie. Minnie?
Jenny: What's the matter, David?
David: Can I take a look? Just take a look?
His eyes moved to her chest. Jenny stared at him.
Jenny: Do you just want to take a look?
David: I just want to take a look.
Jenny looked nervously at h
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