AMERICAN TAEKWONDO Eye of the Dragon

7/29/2019 AMERICAN TAEKWONDO Eye of the Dragon

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AMERICAN TAEKWONDO

Dragon Eye

Written by

Sam Bass

Based on, the international story of Master H.U. Lee,the father of American Taekwondo

Sam Bass2018 BroadwayLittle Rock, AR. [email protected] WGAw


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AMERICAN TAEKWONDOEye of the Dragon

Feature Film Teaser

FADE IN:

A VIDEO CUT PLAYS - The four minute (American TaekwondoAssociation) ATA Youtube tribute to Eternal Grand Master H.U.Lee plays.

MONTAGE OF YOUTUBE CUTS

MUSIC PLAYS - GANGNAM STYLE by PSY

- Five AMERICAN TAEKWONDO ASSOCIATION (ATA) trained kids (7-9), practice in a Taekwondo training facility.

- Two ATA XTREME taekwondo students (12), spare in the sametraining facility.

- A group of ten ATA Taekwondo kids (10-13) stop training,slap their hands down to their side, bow and yell the commoncall for the end of practice.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. CITY SCHOOL - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - AFTERNOON

CLOSE ON - a pair of small legs clad in jeans connected to a

pair of silver sneakers runs out the side door of the brickschool, down some concrete steps and onto the sidewalk.

The legs move faster down the sidewalk. The owners legsabruptly stop when two other legs with scuffed leather laceshoes stop in front of them.

SAMUEL BASS (11), a small handsome light haired boy stands infront of KYLE TURNER (11), a big husky boy with braces. Hegrins a metal grin and grabs Samuels shirt. Kyles buddy,LEONARD DUNN (8), a slim pinch faced boy stands behind Kyle.

KYLE

(American Midwest accent)Where you going creep?

LEONARD(American Southern accent)

Yeah creep.

KYLEShut up Leonard...


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Samuel looks around for an exit point.

SAMUEL(American Southern accent)

Im not a creep.

KYLEGot any money freak?

SAMUELFifty cents.

LEONARDPay-up loser.

SAMUELThats all I got.

In the doorway of the school is MASTER H.U. LEE (50s), ahandsome fit Korean smaller man wearing a white janitorialuniform watching with folded arms.

Kyle pushes Samuel, then swings on him hitting his eye andSamuel hits the ground.

KYLEGive it up Seymour Butts.

Samuel goes in his pocket holding his eye with a tear runningdown his cheek from the other eye.

Mr. Lee steps in front of Samuel, looking down at Kyle. Hewipes the tear from Samuels cheek then looks at Kyle.

MASTER LEE(South Korean accent)

Do not surrender to extortion.

KYLETo what?

MASTER LEEBullying, Lulu.

KYLEButt out. He owes me money.

LEONARDYeah old man butt out.

KYLEShut up Leonard.

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MASTER LEEBoys who fly upside down have bigcrack up.

KYLEWhat?

MASTER LEEYou heard me McSmelly.

RAY (30s), a slick haired husky man, that is Kyles fatherrushes up.

RAY(American Midwest accent)

What are you doing?(Master Lee just looks athim)

Nobody messes with my kid.

MASTER LEENobody messes with your child,child messes-up all by himself. Heis following your poor example.

RAYWatch yourself.

MASTER LEEEvery morning when I shave.

RAYYou...

Ray swings and Master Lee catches his fist kindly lookinginto his eyes.

MASTER LEELook at son. He watches yourexample. You have embarrassedyourself, go home where you belongand think about your actions.

Ray jerks away and takes Kyle by the arm and they walk away

with Leonard following.

FREEZE FRAME:

FADE TO CREDITS:

ROLL CREDITS:

End of Teaser

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Samuel holds his eye and looks kindly at Master Lee.

SAMUELGee thanks Mr. Lee that was cool.

Master Lee smiles.

MASTER LEECool as a Polar Bears rear end inAlaska.

Samuel gives him a look.

JILLIAN BASS (30s), a pretty curly haired woman drives up ina Ford sedan and gets out smiling.

SAMUELHi mom.

MASTER LEEHello Jillian.

JILLIAN(American Midwest accent)

Hello you two, sorry Im late. Igot caught on a project at thelaboratory.

(Jillian looks close ather sons eye)

What happened?

SAMUELMom, Mr. Lee saved me from Kyle.

MASTER LEENo, simply helped neighbor.Obligation of society.

JILLIANThank you Mr. Lee. You want a ride?

Mr. Lee nods.

MASTER LEEMost appreciated.

She smiles and they all get in the car.

DISSOLVE TO:

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EXT. BASS RESIDENCE - AFTERNOON

Jillian pulls up to the front of her house and stops.Jillian, Samuel and Master Lee get out.

MASTER LEEThank you Jillian for goodbehavior.

JILLIANWhat are friends for?

MASTER LEERide home... Samuel, come to myhome, I will teach you self defenseand fix your eye.

SAMUEL

Really?

MASTER LEEYes I am starting Taekwondo Songahmschool, South Korean style. Youwill be first American student.

SAMUELTae what?

MASTER LEEBoy who have head in toilet, havecrappy view.

SAMUELWhat?

MASTER LEETae-Kwon-do. Keep up. Lesson ForTaekwondo, not English.

Jillian is looking at Samuel.

JILLIANKarate?

MASTER LEESort of.

SAMUELMom?

JILLIANAll right, go on. I have work to doanyway.

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Master Lee smiles. Samuel smiles and nods.

MASTER LEEI will return him in one piece of,molten steel.

Samuel smiles. He and Master Lee walk away toward MasterLees oriental style home.

SAMUELIs it really Karate?

MASTER LEENo, Taekwondo Songahm. Just beingpolite to mother.

SAMUELTae what?

Master Lee rolls his eyes as they walk toward his orientalstyle house.

Jillian smiles and walks toward her house.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. MASTER LEES SMALL HOME - TRAINING ROOM - AFTERNOON

Master Lee sits at a small desk near the wall of a large openroom with polished hardwood floors.

Samuel is going through some basic Taekwondo moves holding asmall steak on his black eye, as Master Lee reads somethinglying on the desk.

MASTER LEEOne, two, three, kick. One, two...

Samuel spins and kicks then walks to Master Lee.

SAMUELMr. Lee, could we take a break?

MASTER LEEBreak for sticks.

Samuel sees a brilliant colored opal as the eye of a goldendragon hanging around Master Lees neck.

SAMUELWhat is that?

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MASTER LEEEye of the Dragon, mystic symbol ofTaekwondo Grand Masters, Mr. Nosey.

Samuel nods and looks at framed pictures hanging on the wallof Master Lee in a South Korean military uniform, others in aTaekwondo uniform, along with a few various certificates ofachievement mixed in and pictures of Master Lee with Americansoldiers and politicians.

SAMUELAre you famous or something?

Master Lee smiles looking at the pictures.

MASTER LEEYes and rich too, havent younoticed my expensive curtains. Go

practice, so you can turn bullyinto steer.

SAMUELHuh?

Samuel gives him an awkward smile, moves back to the floorand begins his routine still holding the steak on his eye.

DISSOLVE TO:


Samuel walks from the school, his eye healed to a lightbronze.

3D SUPER - TWO MONTHS LATER

KYLEHey loser, wheres your money?

LEONARDYeah.

SAMUEL

In the bank.

KYLEShut up Leonard.

(Kyle grabs Samuel andtwist his arm)

That was so funny, Im laughing onthe inside, give me your cash.

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Samuel attempts to trip Kyle and push him to get away, butKyle just looks at Samuel as he struggle and then throws himto the ground.

From out of nowhere Master Lee steps between them and givesKyle a harsh look and points his finger at Leonard.

MASTER LEEGo away greedy boys.

Kyle runs away talking to Leonard.

KYLEYou shoulda done something.

LEONARDMe?

Kyle glances back.

KYLEThis isnt over snot wad.

MASTER LEEAliens searching for intelligentlife will not contact you.

Master Lee rolls his eyes and looks down at Samuel.

SAMUELHes such a jerk

MASTER LEEJerk is not our concern. Moretraining, execution is poor.

SAMUELThats a joke right.

MASTER LEELet's go, I have something to do.Want to come.

Samuel nods.

EXT. LITTLE ROCK SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - FRONT -LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - NIGHT

Powerful strobe lights pan the skies and flash across thefront of the huge stadium that has very little foot traffic.Two black limousines pull up to the front doors and stop.

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CLOSE ON - A huge digital billboard - it flashes a picture ofthe colorful marital arts matches inside and a scrolledmessage - RAW THUNDER - KARATE - THE DRAGONs TAEKWONDO STYLE- MIDWEST AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIP, TAEKWONDO MASTER LEE versusThe BRUTE BAIN.

A well-dressed limousine driver gets out of the firstlimousine and walks around to the passengers door andstands.

INT. LITTLE ROCK THUNDER DOME STADIUM - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA -NIGHT

The lights are bright inside the busy arena and the colorfulcrowd rumbles holding up signs, watching the first Taekwondomatch.

PAN - Some of the more bizarre spike haired martial arts fansplay to the camera. The camera cuts to the marketing bannerson the walls, from COCA-COLA to AUTOMOBILES and more.

Two Massive flat screen televisions hangs on the walls of thestadium showing Master Lee, The Brute and flashingadvertising on the split screens.

A SONG PLAYS - Thunder Rolls by Garth Brooks

The huge stadium is full of fans, some holding up signs fortheir favorite fighter. Vendors walk the isles selling drinksand food. The crowd rumbles as two exhibition martial arts

fighters spare with each other.

Two PRETTY GIRLS (20s), wearing Karate uniforms walk the matholding up signs, advertising products for the crowd to see.They move up the isles of the stadium smiling and selling.

KRAMER McCAIN(40s), a handsome announcer for the stadiummatches, dressed in a designer tuxedo, watches the martialartist spare.

BODREAU TURK (40s), a well-dressed, robust man with slickhair sits at a color commentators table near the mats with amicrophone in front of him watching. His partner SID CHAN

(30s), a handsome classy looking Asian man dressed in adesigner suit, sits with Bodreau in front of his microphone.

A television camera does a close up of SUN LEE (40s), apretty Asian woman sitting behind Master Lee who is on theside lines of the mat.

A television steadicam operator moves in on Bodreau and Sid.

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BODREAU(microphone voice)(American Midwest accent)

Theres the beautiful Sun Lee. TheDragons wife. Ready to cheer herhusband on.

(a close up of Samuel)I guess Master Lee is desperate forhelp, hes brought the kids.

SID(microphone voice)(American South Koreanaccent)

Dont underestimate the Dragon. Heis a powerful Martial artist.

BODREAU

This is it, Sid. Master Lee, TheDragon has a lot to overcome. Hechallenged all comers to defeat himand his new taekwondo style.

SIDThats right Bodreau. Hes upagainst Rudolph The Brut, a localKarate black belt and very tough. Aman determined to prove Karate isKing. Tonight they prove whos thepower in this marital arts arena.

Sid watches the mat and glances at his partner.

Master Lee is wiping his face with a towel in his corner.

JUDGE KENNEDY CALL (40s), a dark haired black belt is on themat and orders the fighters to the center of the mat.

JUDGE CALL(American Midwest accent)

Positions.

Sun cheers her husband on.

Sid watches the fighters closely.

BODREAU(microphone voice)(American, light Asianaccent)

The Dragons in great form and theGothic Brut seems empowered,anything can happen.

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BODREAU (CONTD)Its Taekwondo versus Karate. A warof the arts.

MUSIC PLAYS - MR. LEE by the Bobbettes

Master Lees trainer, HIRAM GOLD (50's), a rusticallyhandsome athletic man wearing sweats, holding a towel standsmat-side watching the fighters intently with Samuel.

SAMUELGo Master Lee.

HIRAM(Israeli accent)

Watch him Dragon, hes a littletricky and a lot under handed.

Master Lee nods and glances at Sun then Samuel and moves inon THE BRUTE BAIN (20s), a huge muscular man with a Gothiclook. Master Lee connects and cracks The Brut hard with aflying kick.

Sweat flies from The Bruts face, slamming him back.

The judge goes in and restarts the fight.

PAN TO - The flat screens on the wall flash Master Lee, TheDragons picture and name, then a picture of Rudolph The BrutBain with his name and the huge word -POW, covers thescreens.

Samuel cheers.

The color commentators watches intently.

BODREAUOh! Will you look at that! Dragonused his famous smashing side-kicktrying to take out The Brut.

SIDThat hurt! But I dont think itbothered The Brut...

BODREAUYoure right Sid, The brute isstill standing and in good form.

SIDWere seconds away from a newchampion and both fighters arestill in the game in a verypowerful way.

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The Brut rebounds and abruptly side-kicks and accidently headbutts Master Lee as he moves in.

Blood splatters across The Brutes face and chest, from thetop of Master Lees eye.

BODREAUWow! Now its a blood sport.

SIDThe Dragon looks like hes introuble.

Master Lee grabs The Bruts arm and flips him over hisshoulder and The Brut crashes into the mat next to Samuel andHiram. Samuels eyes get big.

The Brut lies there and blinks. He attempts to get up, but

falls back to the mat.

CLOSE ON JUDGE CALL - The Judge declares a point for MasterLee.

The Brut moans a little and gets up. He strait arms MasterLee with his palm and Master Lee falls back addled.

BODREAUThis is it. Master Lees introuble!

Judge Call watches Master Lee closely and the Brut moves in

abruptly and knocks him back again. Master Lee stumbles anddrops to his knees and the judge declares a point for TheBrut. The crowd cheers.

JUDGE CALL(American Midwest accent)

Point for The Brut!

Sid sits up in his seat.

SID (V.O.)Wow, Its The Brut, all the way!

BODREAUThe Brut has won! Taekwondo issecond best.

The Judge congratulates The Brut.

The Brut holds his arms in the air showing his victory.

Master Lee looks up with blood trickling down his face. Hestands and goes to Samuel and his trainer.

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Hiram quickly comes to Master Lee with a small gym towel andcleans Master Lees wound a little as Master Lee isembarassed.

Kramer moves in the mat carrying a championship gold beltsmiling, also carrying a microphone, as photographers snappictures and TV crews shoot film.

KRAMER(microphone/loud speakervoice)(American Midwest accent)

Lad... ies and gentlemen... The newMid-South Martial arts FederationChampion ... Mr. Jack THE BRUT,Bain...

The crowd cheers. Jack shakes the weakened Master Lees hand.

Kramer gives Jack the championship Gold belt and Jack holdsit high over his head showing the cheering fans.

CLOSE ON THE BELT - an ornate, silver and gold, martial artschampionship belt, glistens in the bright lights with thewords MID-SOUTH MARTIAL ARTS CHAMPION prominent. The crowdcheers.

Master Lee, Samuel and his trainer look down as they leavethe mat and walk down the isle to the dressing rooms ignoredby the crowd. Samuel looks up at Master Lee and takes hishand.

SAMUELYoure the greatest, next time.

Master smile and they fade away down the isle.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. CITY STREET - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - NIGHT

A bright colored, awesome, semi tractor-trailer with SOUTHERNTHUNDER WORLD MARTIAL ARTS CHAMPIONSHIP and ATA CHAMPION,MASTER LEE, THE DRAGON plastered across the trailer, stops on

the street in front of a Little Rock suburb conveniencestore.

Master Lee follows the truck in his Chevrolet Malibu thenturns into the convenience store.

INT. MASTER LEES TOYOTA - NIGHT

Master Lee sits with his pretty wife.

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SUN(American South Koreanaccent)

We spent our last money on the showlast night and the advertising.

MASTER LEEI know, but this is how we getpeople to notice, then our schoolwill work.

SUNI know sweetheart, we just needsomething to bring in some money.

MASTER LEEIm working three jobs. I cant domore.

SUNDont worry. Lets get home and getsome rest, Samuel asked if we wouldpick him up for class tomorrow atthe gym.

MASTER LEESure, my only American Taekwondostudent. How could I ignore that?

Master Lee smiles and gets out of his Malibu sedan, leavinghis pretty brunette Asian wife waiting.

EXT. CONVENIENCE STORE - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - NIGHT

He glances at the truck and waves, then looks at Sun smiling,and walks toward the store.

INT. CONVENIENCE STORE - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - NIGHT

Master Lee walks in, still sad about his loss and sees arough looking street person giving the clerk a hard time andattempting to rob the store.

VIRGIL DICKS (20s), a very rough man with three days ofstubble turns his jittery gaze to Master Lee as he talks tothe clerk.

VIRGIL(American Southern accent)

Give me the money.

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He points his 9mm automatic and Master Lee puts his hands up,palms out, showing no aggression.

MASTER LEEWhat are you...

VIRGIL(American Southern accent)

Shut up.

Master Lee nods and backs off.

Virgil turns to the clerk.

VIRGIL (CONTD)The money.

KENNY CHASE (20s), the slim store clerk tries to open the

register, but is having trouble.

Master Lee slams the unaware Virgil to the floor and in theconfusion, Virgil gets up and Master Lee manages to grabVirgil and they flip through the front window.

INSIDE TO OUTSIDE - Virgil and Master Lee land on thesidewalk under a shower of glass.

Master Lee and Virgil are bleeding badly. Master Lee has apiece of glass protruding from his side. Sirens can be heardin the distance.

Sun and the Southern Thunder truck driver run to the front ofthe store next to Master Lee and Virgil.

BACK TO SCENE

The store clerk is craning his neck to see outside anddialing his cell phone.

EXT. CONVENIENCE STORE - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - NIGHT

Two police cars pull into the front of the store surroundingVirgil and Master Lee. The policemen get out aiming their

handguns at them.

Master Lee looks up at Sun as she kneels next to him and heslowly closes his eyes.

She cries.

DISSOLVE TO:

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EXT. SAINT VINCENTS HOSPITAL - EMERGENCY UNIT - LITTLE ROCKAR. USA - NIGHT

An ambulance rolls in and stops. Two PARAMEDICS (30s) getout and take Master Lee out of the ambulance.

PARAMEDIC ONE(American Midwest accent)

Hey, isnt this The Dragon?

The other paramedic looks.

PARAMEDIC TWO(American Southern)

Yeah, Master Lee, The Dragon. ManHis last fight was a bummer. He wasrobbed.

PARAMEDIC ONEBy, himself.

PARAMEDIC TWOShut up, I hope he lives. I watchthose guys all the time. I evenhave a poster.

They wheel him inside.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. SAINT VINCENTS HOSPITAL - EMERGENCY UNIT - LITTLE ROCKAR. USA - NIGHT

Master Lee is in the Intensive Care unit with tubes in hisnose, a shaved head and an attractive NURSE (30s), standingby watching his heart monitor.

3D SUPER - One Week Later

INSIDE TO OUTSIDE - Sun watches him through the intensivecare window with red eyes. Hiram, Samuel and Jillian watchwith her.

Master Lee wakes up.

SAMUELLook, Hes awake.

The nurse stands and looks at the monitor and checks hisbandages.

She motions for them to come in.

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Sun and Hiram walk inside. Sun stops and motions for Samueland Jillian to follow.

NURSE(American Southern accent)

Hes stronger now, you can visitfor ten minutes. Dont want tostress him.

Sun smiles and goes to Master Lee and the others follow.

Master Lee smiles and weakly speaks.

MASTER LEEWhats the verdict.

Sun looks at him sweetly, then the others and back at MasterLee.

HIRAMBuddy... the doctor said youprobably cant fight again.

SUN(South Korean accent)

But, youre going to get better.

Master Lee looks at them for a moment.

SAMUELIll help you. I dont want nothing

to happen to you.

Master Lee smiles at Samuel.

Sun holds his hand and tears run down her face.

MASTER LEEAre you sure, I cant fight?

Hiram nods.

HIRAMHe said, There is a lot of internal

scare tissue from the glass cutsand if you put stress on them, itcould burst and kill you.

Master Lee is up-set.

MASTER LEEWhat do I do? Taekwondo is my life.I am building American Taekwondo, Icant quit now.

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SAMUELIll take care of you.

SUNAll of us will.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. MASTER LEES SMALL HOME - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - DAY

Master Lee and Sun pull up in his vehicle. She stops and getsout, going to Master Lee, to help him get out and walk to thehouse.

SUNIm so glad to have you home.

MASTER LEEMe too. Home is sweet.

INT. MASTER LEES SMALL HOME - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - DAY

Master Lee goes inside and sits down in a sparsely furnishedliving room.

MASTER LEEWheres all of the furniture.

SUN

Youve been sick a long time. I hadto sell some things to save thehouse and pay medical bills.

Master Lee smiles.

MASTER LEEIts okay, well make it back.

SUNHiram got you an offer to traintaekwondo with him at a gym.

MASTER LEEGive me a couple weeks and Ill beback and the money will come.

SUNNo, baby. Youre not going to comeback, no Taekwondo fighting again.Like Hiram said, with all of theinternal damages you have, it couldkill you.

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Master Lee hangs his head.

MASTER LEEI never thought it would be the endof me.

SUNYoull be fine just dont exertyourself. Ill get tea.

She leaves.

There is a knock on the door. Master Lee gets up and startsmaking his way to the front door.

He stops and looks at a mirror on the wall and himself. Heappears to be trying to understand himself. The knock isheard again. He snaps out of it and goes to the door.

Master Lee opens it.

INSIDE TO OUTSIDE - Samuel is standing with LEONARD (10), abrainy child with glasses and curly hair. SUE ELLEN (10), Apretty, curly hair little girl stands with them, all smiling.

MASTER LEESamuel.

SAMUELHello Master Lee. I missed a lot oflessons while you where sick. So I

need some, and so does Luther andSue Ellen, shes rich.

MASTER LEEIs this Luther and Sue Ellen?

(Samuel nods)Well come in, class is in session.

Samuel and his friends step in.

SAMUELIm glad youre better I wasworried.

MASTER LEEThank you for your worries, go intothe training room. Ill be along.

Sun comes in with tea.

SUNOh my, we have company. Ill getmilk and cookies.

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Master Lee smiles big and proudly.

MASTER LEEStudents for Taekwondo.

SUNWelcome Children.

Samuel and his friends walk on to the training room.

A knock at the door. Sun and Master Lee look at each otherand Master Lee answers the door.

INSIDE TO OUTSIDE - Kyle and Luther are standing in thedoorway.

KYLEHello.

Luther nods.

MASTER LEEHello, You have wrong place,Juvenile hall 5 miles down road.

Kyle appear sincere.

KYLENo, we would like to take Taekwondolessons, you know; honor and stuff.

LUTHERYeah please.

MASTER LEEYes please. Taekwondo pronouncedright. Your entrance examination iscomplete, come in.

Sun is suspicious.

SUNDo you think...

MASTER LEEI think it is class time for newboys, especially almost bad applesthat are turning sweet.

She smiles as Master Lee and the two boys walk toward thetraining room.

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INT. MASTER LEES SMALL HOME - TRAINING ROOM - LITTLE ROCKAR. USA - DAY

Samuel and his friends look up.

MASTER LEEChildren, we have new students. Newstudents meet your old victims.

Samuel and his friends see them and moan.

MASTER LEE (CONTD)Kind, gentle and formal greeting isin order.

Everyone just stares.

MASTER LEE (CONTD)

It okay, outlaws reformed.

Samuel and his friends look at them suspiciously.

SAMUELThey will just mess it up.

MASTER LEEWe are in taekwondo. We alwayshonor and respect our guest, messit up, or not.

Samuel and his friends moan again.

LEONARDWhy should we suffer because ofthem.

MASTER LEEReach inside yourself, discovergooey parts, then forgive... Lineup for lesson.

The children line up and Master Lee places Kyle and Leonardat the end.

SUE ELLENAh EE.

MASTER LEESue Ellen, must wait fordemonstration of skill.

SUE ELLENSorry, I say that on TV, it soundsso good.

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MASTER LEEI have something for you today.

(opens a cardboard box andpulls out an ATA uniform)

New uniform for skilled students.

Master Lee passes them out. The kids are elated.

KYLEWow, this is so cool.

Master Lee smiles and looks at the students.

MASTER LEEYou must earn the right to wearthese. Remember; honor, respect,integrity, Taekwondo.

The student yell out.

STUDENTSTaekwondo.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. CITY PARK - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - DAY

Master Lee is sitting on a park bench holding a cane staringinto space relaxing.

BENNY WANG (40s), a well dressed, fun, oriental man walks toMaster Lee and sits.

BENNY(American South Koreanaccent)

Hey Haeng, been looking for you.

MASTER LEEI miss your absence.

Benny is amused.

BENNYTo bad, I want to start a newTaekwondo promotion. The last oneyou did was a grand event, even ifyou did loss, no offense.

MASTER LEEThe money I made got eaten up byhospital bills.

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BENNYSo sorry.

MASTER LEEAre you going to have girls mudwrestling this time to bump upticket sales?

Benny smiles.

BENNYNow theres an idea. Listen, Italked to Hiram and he said the twoof you have talked about trainingnew comers, since your injury.

MASTER LEEYes. We are starting a school,

American Taekwondo Association.

Benny relaxes smiling.

BENNYSounds okay, but it takes a lot ofmoney. I got a lot of ideas thatmake money now, you need to helpme.

Master Lee is amused at his ambitious friend.

MASTER LEE

You got a lot of something.

BENNYWith your abilities in taekwondo, Ican promote your training, and thepeople you train. You know, like;our martial artist have the magicpassed on to them, or somethinglike that and bingo, people come tosee them and we are making money.

MASTER LEEJust like that?

BENNYThats right. Just like that. Hey,I know its not your AmericanTaekwondo stuff, but its a start.

MASTER LEEAnd you pay the new guys nothingmuch, cause theyre new and youmake money off of The Dragon name.

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Benny give him a serious look.

BENNYWhat Dragon name, maybe in Korea.

MASTER LEENow you insult me.

Benny shakes his head.

BENNYLook Haeng, We will give the newfighters a living wage. You get aregular contract price and Ill cutyou and yours a piece of the gateand its a win, win.

MASTER LEE

So, does Hiram like it?

BENNYYeah, and I got you the first guyto train. A real fireball.

MASTER LEEWho?

BENNYA Choctaw Indian boy, fresh out ofOklahoma. William, Alpha dog, wolf,something or the other.

Master Lee rolls his eyes.

MASTER LEEYou make this sound like wrestlingwith all of the names.

Benny rolls his eyes.

BENNYGo sit on tack, you will finallyget the point.

POPPIE KELLER (40s), a slick looking handsome man walks upwearing an Armani suit followed by BULL (40s) his little,short, mustached henchman.

POPPIE(American Midwest accent)

Hey champ, Hey ear-wax.

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BENNYMaster Lee, meet my new businesspartner, Poppie Keller and thatshis assistant, Bull.

Bull nods.

BULL(American East Coastaccent)

Hey.

Master Lee glances at Poppie and Bull.

MASTER LEEHello McStink.

POPPIE

I saw your car, thought I stop.Have we got a deal for you champ.

MASTER LEESo I hear. But, youre a bookie.Lets see, what could it be, acollecting job?

POPPIENo, and dont insult me. I mighttake offense.

MASTER LEE

Oow.

POPPIEIm legit now, ever since I startedpromoting martial arts, and I letBenny buy into my franchise.

MASTER LEEWhats that, Rip ya... offincorporated?

BENNYHaeng.

Poppie rolls his eyes.

POPPIEI told you, to quit doing that. Wejust bought the Southern ThunderWorld Champion Martial ArtsFederation.

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MASTER LEEThats pretty big.

POPPIEYeah Mr. physic. Its big.

BENNYI need you Master Lee, join us. Youcan do ATA before you know it.

MASTER LEEFor you Benny, Im in.

BENNYCome to the Southern Thunder Gymtomorrow. Well get started withyour new man.

Benny smiles.

Master Lee nods and walks away.

BULLLater, peg leg.

MASTER LEELater, gingivitis.

Benny smiles and leaves with Poppie and Bull.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - PARKING LOT - FRONT -LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - MORNING

WILLIAM, ALPHA WOLFE, (30s), An average size AmericanChoctaw Indian man with long beaded braids gets out of hisold Chevrolet pick-up and goes inside.

MUSIC PLAYS - quietly - CHEROKEE MORNING SONG by Walela

Master Lee and Hiram sit on a bench looking at newspapers.They see Alpha walking.

HIRAMIs that him?

MASTER LEEI guess, he looks a little...little.

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HIRAMWe can use the money, lets give ita shot.

Master Lee smiles.

MASTER LEEYeah, at least were employedthrough the rest of the day.

Hiram and Master Lee follow.

INT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - GYM - DRESSING ROOM -LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - MORNING

Master Lee and Hiram walk in as Alpha Wolfe is gettingmeasured for a colorful taekwondo costume. Alpha looks up and

smiles and speaks in the manner of an educated man.

ALPHA(American Choctaw Indian,Oklahoma accent)

Hey hi, you guys must be Master Leeand Hiram. Im so glad to meet you.

Master Lee and Hiram smile.

HIRAMKid why are you getting an outfitlike that? Youre not even trained

yet.

ALPHAOh, that. Its no big deal. I wantto look good for my first out. Whatdo ya think, black or pink?

MASTER LEEAh, black, definitely black.

HIRAMYeah black, its you.

Master Lee looks at Hiram and rolls his eyes.

ALPHAGreat, Im going to look so good.

MASTER LEEOkay, were going out to the gym.Finish your business and come onout.

27.


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Master Lee and Hiram walk away.

Alpha smiles and checks his martial arts uniform for a snugrear-end fit.

INT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - ARENA - TRAINING AREA -LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - DAY

Master Lee and Hiram are sitting mat-side, Hiram is reading anewspaper and Master Lee looking at the ceiling waitingtwiddling his thumbs.

A half-dozen martial artist are in different stages ofpracticing across the gym.

Alpha Wolfe prances out of the dressing room to the gymwearing his new costume/uniform. A very fancy style.

ALPHAWhat do ya think? Pretty cool... Iknow.

Hiram and Master Lee smile and nod. They stand as Alpha getson the mat prancing around.

The other martial artist stop and watch him.

Master Lee looks at the martial artists and shrugs hisshoulders, then looks at Hiram.

MASTER LEEHoly crap.

HIRAMGive him a chance. Who knows.

Master Lee glances at ROCKY (30s), a muscular black beltthat looks tough. He walks to Master Lee and the Masterwhispers.

MASTER LEEOkay Rocky, We need to see, whathes got. Dont give him any

breaks.

ROCKY(American East Coastaccent)

Got it.

HIRAMLiterally, dont give him anybreaks, we may need him later.

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Rocky smiles and gets on the mat.

ROCKYDont worry, Ill just smack himaround a little and take that cockypride down to street level.

Alpha dances around the mat watching Rocky stare, waiting.

Judge Call gets on the mat.

Master Lee and Hiram watch mat-side.

MASTER LEEAll right Alpha, this is it. We gotthe Judge on the mat to get Rockyoff of ya.

Alpha smiles.

ALPHAThanks.

MASTER LEEYou will learn as much from theJudge as you will from the sparing.Pay attention.

(Alpha gives Master Lee alook)

Rocky is going to test you, youknow, show you what it takes.

HIRAMLets go.

Alpha jumps around looking athletic.

ALPHAI got what it takes.

HIRAMQuit talking and start showing.

Alpha smiles and sweeps his leg across Rockys and Rocky hits

the mat with a thud.

ALPHATaekwondo.

HIRAMI can see. A word to the wise,which does not apply to you. Waitfor the Judge to start the fight.

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MASTER LEEGood Taekwondo... Go slower, learn.

Alpha gives them an oops look and starts dancing around Rockyas he gets up and the judge watches him.

Hiram glances at Master Lee.

HIRAMRockys gonna kill this poor guy.

MASTER LEEAnd then some.

The judge calls them to the center and looks at Rocky thenAlpha.

JUDGE CALL

(American Southern accent)Fight.

Rocky immediately goes after Alpha. Alpha dodges and slapsRocky on the butt as he goes past.

Rocky doesnt know what to think. He goes after Alpha againgets slapped on the back of the head as he passes.

MASTER LEEHook up, lets see what you got.

Alpha gives him a no way look and Rocky side-kicks him.

Alpha is surprised and then elbows Rocky in the side of headand Rocky backs off a little. He decides to attack again.

Alpha dodges and side-kicks Rocky into the corner of the matarea, then does a bazaar victory dance.

Rocky rushes him and Alpha slams the palm of his hand intoRockys forehead. Rocky falls to the mat. He is groggy as hegets up.

Rocky circles Alpha.

ROCKYAre you gonna fight or dance.

ALPHAWe are sparing, try to keep up.

ROCKYPlease.

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Rocky and Alpha are still circling each other. Alpha smilesand quickly taps Rocky on the head and Rocky isnt fastenough to stop him.

Master Lee looks at Hiram smiling.

MASTER LEEI see the money.

Hiram smiles.

Alpha sweeps Rockys feet from under him and Rocky hits themat hard.

ALPHAOh, did that hurt?

ROCKY

Okay, Im mad now.

ALPHASmells like it.

Hiram is amazed.

HIRAMGo Wolfe man.

Benny and Poppie walk in with Bull following and go mat-sidewith Hiram and Master Lee.

BENNYHey champ, Hiram, hows the new mandoing?

MASTER LEESo far, hes on fire.

POPPIEDynamite comes in small packages.

BULLSure does.


Alpha waves at Benny and Poppie.

ALPHAHey guys.

Poppie and Benny are amused and wave back.

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Rocky side-kicks Alpha. Alpha dodges him and trips Rocky ashe passes. Rocky slams into the floor and falls back on themat dazed.

ROCKYLets take a break.

ALPHAOkay, you are wearing me out.

Benny is watching.

BENNYGood idea, I know that hurt.

Alpha helps Rocky get up then walks to Master Lee and Hiram.

ALPHA

Was that great or what?

MASTER LEEYes, all Taekwondo. Very good.

HIRAMHow much do you weight Alpha.

ALPHAOne sixty.

POPPIEGood job dynamite.

ALPHAThanks, but it was a little toeasy.

Rocky rolls his eyes as he leaves the mat.

Benny, Poppie, Hiram and Master Lee look at each other andsmile.

BENNYWell get you someone a littletougher next time.

Benny smiles.

Sun rushes into the gym with an angry look and straight toMaster Lee.

SUNIm so embarrassed, that check yougave me bounced. Now our utilitiesare cut off.

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MASTER LEETake a break Alpha...

(Alpha and Hiram walk overto Benny and Poppie)

Im sorry honey, Well get thechecks coming in soon and thisnightmare will be over.

Sun is talking as she turns toward the door.

SUNI doubt it.

Bull is watching her.

BULLGive it a rest girl. This is aplace of business, keep your

personal stuff at home.

MASTER LEEShut-up Bull, you are not helping.

Benny smiles.

BENNYBehind every great man is a womantelling him how the do it.

Bull appears a little angry.

POPPIEStay out of it Bull, thats MasterLees wife.

BULLFigures.

MASTER LEEShut it, Bull.

Bull shrugs his shoulders and backs off as Sun huffs andwalks out.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - PARKING LOT - FRONT -LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - DAY

Benny and Poppie are walking toward Bennys Cadillac withBull.

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BENNYThe Japanese Karate league ask meto join them in a world tournamenthere in the states. I told them ithad to be named after SouthernThunder if we did it.

POPPIEGood, is that the tournament for amillion?

Benny smiles big.

BENNYOh yeah. Should be big. I worryabout Master Lee and his femaleproblems screwing us up.

POPPIEYeah, could happen. Well just playthe winner.

Benny is concerned.

BENNYWe could pay his bills. Womenworry.

POPPIENo more money, till we find out ifhe can cut it... Later.

Benny nods. Poppie and Bull walk away.

BULLYou want I should handle it boss?

POPPIENo Bull, we got time for your waylater, lets go with Benny for now.

Benny speaks from far away.

BENNY

I can hear you. Get off thatgangster stuff Poppie, were alegitimate international business.

POPPIESorry.

BENNYBoss?

34.


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EXT. MASTER LEES SMALL HOME - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - DAY

Master Lee pulls into his driveway as Sun is pulling out.

MASTER LEESun.

He tries to get her attention, but she drives on.

He walks on to his house looking back at Suns car in thedistance and see Samuel.

Samuel smiles big and waves.

Master Lee waves back and is cheered up.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. CITY PARK - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - MORNING

A half dozen people are jogging and taking their morningwalks.

Master Lee walks, concentrating on keeping his balance withhis cane on the narrow sidewalk.

The thug from the robbery, Virgil with stubble on his face,watches Master Lee while sitting on a park bench, waiting forthe other people to clear out. Virgil gets up and moves pastMaster Lee then gets in front of him.

MASTER LEEWhat is this?

Virgil pushes him back a little. Master Lee looks coolly atVirgil.

VIRGILJust give me your money and keepyour mouth shut.

MASTER LEERelax.

Master Lee turns to the side and looks for a moment atVirgil.

VIRGILWhats you looking at gimp?

MASTER LEETheres no money.

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Virgil shoves Master Lee off balance.

VIRGILThe money. You got to pay for whatyou did to me.

MASTER LEEYoure the...

Sun is walking toward them.

SUNHey!

Sun walks up and stops behind Virgil. He turns to the side towatch her and Master Lee.

MASTER LEE

Stay out of this Sun.

Sun looks at Virgil.

SUNNot likely, get lost freak.

Virgil laughs.

Sun side kicks Virgil in the chest landing him on the ground.

Sun watches the thug with Master Lee.

Virgil looks for a moment and gets up.

He sees a police cruiser rolling past on the street next tothe park.

He runs off.

Master Lee looks at Sun and smiles.

MASTER LEEYoure a tough girl.

Sun looks at Master Lee.

SUNI came to say Im sorry for the wayI acted. Samuel stopped me at homeand told how important you and yourtaekwondo are to the neighborhoodkids and he made me see. I know youtry so hard, forgive me.

Master Lee looks closer and hugs her.

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MASTER LEEI needed that. I know its hard foryou and for that I am sorry.

Sun smiles and stops looking at Master Lee.

SUNYou know you are my idol. You stillgot it.

Master Lee smiles modestly.

MASTER LEENo, its pretty obvious, those daysare gone for me.

SUNDont you believe it. You are the

greatest Taekwondo Master thereever was.

MASTER LEEThat statement proves, you havefinally gone nuts.

Sun is amused.

SUNWith the right therapy, we bothcould make a come back.

MASTER LEEI dont think so... Where have youbeen?

SUNRight here with you.

MASTER LEEI love you.

SUNFrom now on I will help you more,we will do something to make ends

meet.

Master Lee smiles. He and Sun walk away.

DISSOLVE TO:

37.


39/121


Hiram is picking up a few towels and generally straighteningup the training area. Poppie walks in with Bull, from theback of the gym to Hiram.

POPPIEHey Hiram. Hows it hangin?

HIRAMIm fine.

POPPIEYou seen Benny?

HIRAMNot today.

POPPIEWhat do you think about our newmartial artists? See any longshots?

Hiram folds some towels.

HIRAMNo. Were just getting started.

POPPIEListen, Im worried about Benny,

hes doing deals without me. Yousee anything?

HIRAMHe would never do that... Youmight.

BULLWatch your mouth.

Hiram gives him a harsh look.

HIRAM

You know better, dont go there.

BULLThat suppose to scare me?

HIRAMYes... Ive known Benny a longtime. You got nothing to worryabout Poppie. Bennys the best.

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Bull starts for Hiram. Poppie puts up his arm to stop him.

POPPIEHiram, youre not being veryfriendly. Dont forget who you workfor.

HIRAMBenny.

Poppie shakes his head and turns to walk away.

POPPIEI see where youre coming fromHiram. Dont stay on that brokedown train to long.

HIRAM

You should talk to Benny, insteadof everybody else.

Poppie is talking to Hiram as he walks away with Bullfollowing.

POPPIEThanks for the advice Hiram. If yousee any long shots or anythinginteresting, tip me and Ill tipyou, ya know?

HIRAM

Right, Id go the extra mile foryou, in the opposite direction.

Hiram shakes his head and smiles as Poppie and Bull walkoutside.

INT. PIZZA RESTAURANT - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - NIGHT

Master Lee and Sun are eating pizza and talking.

Benny walks in to Master Lee and Suns table.

BENNYHi... Mind if I sit down?

MASTER LEENo, sit, youre always welcome.

BENNYHiram told me you were here, Imglad I found you.

39.

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41/121

There is so much to tell. I alreadytold Hiram. This is so great.

SUNYou got me going now, spit it outBenny.

BENNYWe just became partners with theJapanese Karate Federation.

MASTER LEEYou and Poppie?

BENNYFor now.

MASTER LEE

Great thatll make you bigger.

BENNYYes, its great. Part of our dealis, we are to form an AmericanNational Championship, which willbe a part of ten martial artsfederation's around the world. Eachof the federations are having thesame kind of tournament in theircountries.

MASTER LEE

Sounds big.

BENNYBig, its Godzilla. All of thechampionships will culminate intothe Southern Thunder WorldChampionship in Little Rock, withan international cash explosion ofa one million, and I want you totake Alpha Wolfe to thechampionship.

SUN

Wow.

MASTER LEEYoure going to be famous.

BENNYAs soon as my marketing departmentgets this out to the media. Wellhit Fox first.

40.

BENNY (CONT'D)


42/121

Sun is pumped.

SUNCongratulations Benny.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - PARKING LOT - FRONT -LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - NIGHT

Poppie and Bull are talking to Alpha that is wearing a pinkwindbreaker with - Alpha Wolfe, printed on it. He standsbeside his old pick-up truck that is loaded with hisbelonging.

ALPHAIm sorry, My baby is so sick, I

gotta go home.

POPPIEAlpha Dog, Youre leaving us in themiddle of a big deal.

ALPHAWolfe.

POPPIEOkay, are you coming back?

ALPHA

No, my family needs me. Tell theothers, Im sorry.

Alpha hands Poppie a wad of cash.

POPPIEYou cant do this low life stuf...Dont worry Ill take care of it.

Alpha gets in his truck and drives away as Poppie watches andhands Bull the money.

BULL

Whats this for.

POPPIEThe price of leaving.

He takes out his iPhone and dials.

DISSOLVE TO:

41.


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INT. PIZZA RESTAURANT - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - NIGHT

Hiram, Master Lee and Sun sit with Benny talking.

Bennys iPhone quacks till he answers.

BENNYHello. What? Holy... Okay. Ah, seeif you can get Flames Flanigan, Ihear he available and a real badman... Okay, Ill tell Master Leeand Hiram.

Benny hangs up his phone looking at Master Lee.

MASTER LEEWhat?

BENNYAlpha went home a few minutes ago.He has a sick baby.

HIRAMIm sorry... For good?

BENNYYes.

MASTER LEEAre you really going to contractFlanigan?

BENNYHes the only one available now.Were to close to the competition,everybody else is alreadycontracted.

HIRAMTheres a reason, hes stillavailable.

MASTER LEEHes a loose cannon.

BENNYI know, but were showcasing youto sell some tee-shirt and games.Thats half the battle.

Sun pats Master Lees arm.

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MASTER LEEAll right, what have we got toloss?

BENNYA couple million.

HIRAMWhat about Poppie? Hes been, doinghis street gang style lately.

BENNYI know, one problem at a time.

Master Lee shakes his head.

DISSOLVE TO:


A dozen martial artist are working-out or practicing moves.

Samuel and the other children are training on a nearby mat.

Poppie walks in with FLAMES FLANIGAN (30s), a big muscularman and Bull. Benny, Hiram and Master Lee are mat-sidetalking. They look up.

FLAMES

(American Midwest accent)Hey, whats up?

Master Lee, Benny and Hiram smiles.

MASTER LEEGood morning. Im glad youre here.Weve got your training schedulelaid out.

FLAMESWhat, I dont need no trainingschedule. I got this.

Flames shows his muscles immodestly.

BENNYRead your contract, youll train,when we say you train.

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FLAMESOkay Wang, relax. Ill do it...

(smiles)My way.


MASTER LEEGet on the mat.

Flames smirks and gets on the mat.

Master Lee gets on the mat with everyone watching.

FLAMESWhat could you show me, Lee?

MASTER LEE

Just listen and try to get better.

Flames rushes Master Lee and pushes him back, then attemptsto flip him to the mat.

Master Lee favors his injured side and pushes Flames back.

Samuel and the kids take notice and watch.

Flames gets an evil smile and charges Master Lee.

Master Lee side-steps him and flips Flames out of the matarea onto the floor.

Flames gets up and crawls back on the mat then stands.

FLAMESYou done it now.

MASTER LEEFlames, this is not a grudge match,were practicing for the All-American.

Flames charges. Master Lee hooks his arm in Flames arm andthrows him to the mat with a thud.

The kids cheer.

Flames gets up.

FLAMESSo thats the way it is?

He is mad, Flames jumps up and charges Master Lee again.

44.


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Master Lee straight arms him in the throat and Flames fartsas Master Lees arm connects. He falls back against the matknocked out.

Kids laugh and cheer.

Master Lee cuts the kids a look and they get quiet. He looksat Flames as he begins to come around then looks at Hiram.

MASTER LEEI sorry, but he wouldnt stop. Itdid feel good to move again, Ithink I could go a few more rounds.

HIRAMHaeng, does your side hurt?

MASTER LEE

No, a little sore, but Im good.

HIRAMI think you could perform again.This could be a once in a life timemiracle.

BENNYWell its painfully obvious Flamescant cut it.

(smiles)What do you say Haeng, want to trysome breakthrough martial arts and

prove your taekwondo system.

Master Lee is thinking. Sun walks in with her cameraflashing, taking pictures and shoots one of Master Lee on themat.

Master Lee smiles.

MASTER LEEYes. Yes, I do.

Flames comes around, a little disoriented.

FLAMESWhat happened...

(thinking)You embarrassed me, making me fartin front of everybody. Thats notright, Im challenging you to amatch, anytime, any place.

Sun takes a picture.

45.


47/121

BENNYForget it, youre terminated.

Benny looks at Hiram with a small smile.

FLAMESEverybodys against me. Im out ofhere.

The kids cheer.

Master Lee cuts them a look. They get quiet.

Master Lee gets off of the mat and Flames weakly gets up andgets out. Poppie goes to him talking quietly as Bull helpsFlames out to the dressing room.

Flames stumbles slightly and Bull catches him.

BULLEasy buddy.

Benny looks at Master Lee.

MASTER LEEI wont let you down.

BENNYI know, looks like Hirams yourtrainer. Do something colossal.

Sun snaps a picture.

SUNThings sure change fast aroundhere.

Poppie and Bull walk out.

BENNYBetter get going. The martial artsAll-American FederationChampionship is in two month, thenthe big one.

MASTER LEEBetter get crackin. We could usethat million

BENNYIll put your name on thetournaments. You just starttraining.

46.


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Master Lee nods.

HIRAMWell be ready.

EXT. LITTLE ROCK THUNDER DOME STADIUM - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA -DAY

Flames walks toward his lifted, 4x4, flamed-out TOYOTA TUNDRApick-up carrying a gym bag mumbling.

FLAMESLosers.

SEBASTIAN BROOKS (40s), A slick looking Canadian martialarts promoter wearing his Canadian Martial Arts Associationshirt walks toward Flames.

SEBASTIAN(Canada/Toronto accent)

Flames.

Poppie and Bull walk out watching Flames.

Flames stops and looks.

FLAMESHey Sebastian.

Sebastian stops in front of Flames.

SEBASTIANNice practice. Listen buddy. I sawyour deal with Master Lee andBenny.

FLAMESYeah, that was, ah... embarrassing.

SEBASTIANI know. Well hey, I lost my manthat I was training for thechampionship and I was wondering,

would you be interested in fightingfor Canada, in our nationalchampionship.

Flames is happy and smiling.

FLAMESWell yeah, we can win the Canadian,then beat The Dragon in theSouthern Thunder World.

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SEBASTIANNow youre talking buddy.

They shake hands.

FLAMESWhen do we start.

SEBASTIANRight now. If you win the Canadianfor me, Ill pay you two hundredthousand.

FLAMESCha-cing.

SEBASTIANYou win the Southern Thunder World,

Ill give you the entire million.

FLAMESCing, cing.

Sebastian smiles.

SEBASTIANBring your people from New Orleansand Little Rock, then move toToronto right away and well startwhen you get there.

Flames moves toward his truck.

FLAMESDone. Have your lawyer call mylawyer. Youre gonna see somemagic.

Sebastian waves as he walks away.

Poppie and Bull walk on to their car.

POPPIEWonder what hes up to?

INT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - ARENA - LITTLE ROCK AR.USA - NIGHT

Benny is walking across the stadium. TOM (40s), a smallhappy janitor is sweeping up. He stops and looks at Benny.

48.


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TOM(American Southern accent)

Hey Benny.

BENNYHi Tom.

TOMThings have sure changed for ussince you bought this place.

Benny smiles.

BENNYIts been fun.

TOMListen Benny. Couple of things,

Flames signed with Sebastian inCanada yesterday, and Poppie hasbeen acting really strange,snooping around, asking questionsabout you. Just thought you wouldwant to know.

BENNYThanks Tom.

(Benny gives him ahundred)

Take the wife out for dinner. Hey,pass the word, to keep an eye out

for Poppie, somethings up.

Tom smiles as he sweeps.

TOMHe just cant stop his old ways.

Benny is amused.

BENNYHe didnt get rich, by being dumb.

TOM

He may be richer now, but, hes notsmarter.

Tom smiles and nods. Benny walks on.

49.


51/121

EXT. PIZZA RESTAURANT - PARKING LOT - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA -DAY

Flames gets out of his Tundra pick-up. He strokes hiseyebrows in the exterior rearview mirror and smiles athimself, then goes inside.

INT. PIZZA RESTAURANT - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - DAY

Sun, Hiram and Master Lee are having lunch, smiling andhaving a good time.

Flames walks in looking at Master Lee.

FLAMESHey, hows Benny Wangs girl?

MASTER LEEThis is a public place Flames,dont do this.

Hiram looks up.

HIRAMCome on, youre giving our sport abad name.

People around the restaurant are looking.

FLAMES

Like I care, I fight for Canadanow.(smirks)

Oh, thats where youre from.

Hiram looks at Master Lee.

HIRAMWe dont want problems, let it go.

Master Lee relaxes.

FLAMES

I know, Im better than you.

MASTER LEENow youre dreaming.

FLAMESI got a deal for ya. We arm wrestleright here, right now, and seewhos the best man.

50.


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A couple people from the crowd urge them on.

PEOPLE(American Southernaccents)

You can take him Master Lee...Smack him down Flames.

Master Lee gesture for Flames to sit at his table. Hiram andSun scoot their chairs back. Hiram shakes his head.

HIRAMThis juvenile.

SUNLet him do it, he needs this.

Flames sits down and puts his elbow on the table.

Master Lee sits down and locks hands with Flames. They start.

Flames face is red as he pushes hard against Master Lee.Master Lee stands his ground, pushing back.

Flames give his arm a surge of power and pushes Master Leesarm down part way.

Master Lee powers back and they are at a stalemate.

Suddenly Flames pushes with a burst of energy and slamsMaster Lees hand to the table.

Flames yells out and jumps up holding his arms high invictory. The crowd cheers him on.

FLAMESYeah! I win, I win.

Master Lee has a defeated look.

The crowd cheers.

FLAMES (CONTD)I knew it. I am the better man.

Master Lee gets up and quietly walks out with Sun and Hiramfollowing.

SUNHaeng?

FLAMESOh, did I up-set the little guy?

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HIRAMDont worry about him Haeng. Hesso full of himself.

Flames flexes his muscles.

FLAMESLook at me now.

SUNShut up Flames.

FLAMESYou got your woman talking for younow?

HIRAMGet lost.

FLAMESIm going, just wanted you knowYoure done. No way but down foryou.

Hiram looks at Sun. Master Lee stares at Flames.

The door closes.

EXT. PIZZA RESTAURANT - PARKING LOT - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA -DAY

Master Lee, Sun and Hiram walk out as Flames drives away.

MASTER LEEI just dont have it anymore.

HIRAMYoure a proven sports figure. Hejust got lucky.

MASTER LEEThat wasnt luck, it was purepower. Hes getting better

everyday.

SUNDid you let him win?

Hirams brain light comes on.

HIRAMYou did, to make him overconfident.

52.


54/121

Master Lee raises his eyebrows not telling.

DISSOLVE TO:


Benny is watching his fighters train while relaxing. HisiPhone rings.

BENNYHello... Hey Maxim. Yes sure,everything is set up. Itll be goodto see you.

A muscular TAEKWONDO TRAINEE (20s), falls and rolls from themat next to Bennys leg as Benny hangs up his iPhone.

TAEKWONDO TRAINEE(American West Coastaccent)

Sorry Mr. Wang.

BENNYIts okay, I saw that move. Let meshow you.

Benny kicks off his shoes and steps on the mat. The othermartial artist just look at him.

The muscular trainee stands.

TAEKWONDO TRAINEEWhat are you doing?

BENNYIm going to show you Master LeesTaekwondo style, come on.

The trainee moves on Benny. Benny side steps and slams him tothe mat.

BENNY (CONTD)

AHEE...

The trainee blinks.

TAEKWONDO TRAINEEWow.

BENNYYou see? Follow Master LeesTaekwondo and you will win.

53.

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55/121

(the trainee nods)Do it with a little king-sizeattached to it.

Benny walks away.

The trainee smiles.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. CITY PARK - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - MORNING

Master Lee is jogging with Sun along the narrow parksidewalk.

A PROCESS SERVER (30s), a handsome casual man, sits on apark bench waiting on Master Lee to pass.

Master Lee gets near. The server steps in front of him. Heand Sun stop. The Server gives Master Lee court documents.

PROCESS SERVER(American Southern accent)

Haeng U. Lee AKA Master Lee?(Master Lee nods)

You are served. The State CivilCourt commands your presence onThursday the 5th, Thats three daysfrom now. Be there or you will beforced to appear, fined or jailed.

Master Lee looks at the paper.

SUNWhat?

PROCESS SERVERYou, Zip Market Company and KennyChase are being sued, for unlawfulexcessive force and egregiousbodily harm of one Virgil Dicks.

MASTER LEE

Thats the thug at the conveniencestore.

SUNAppropriate names.

PROCESS SERVERAny questions, get an attorney.

The process server walks away.

54.

BENNY (CONT'D)


56/121

Master Lee hangs his head, depressed.

SUNHow can this be?

Master Lee shakes his head.

MASTER LEEStory of my life.

EXT. GHETTO GROCERY STORE - PARKING LOT - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA- AFTERNOON

People are coming up to Poppie, who is scalping event ticketswith Bull standing beside him.

A ROUGH WOMAN (40s), with red spray painted hair and tatoos

walks up.

ROUGH WOMAN(American Southern accent)

Hey Poppie, how much for two.

POPPIEHundred.

ROUGH WOMANPoppie? I liked you better beforeyou went lagit.

POPPIEJust making a little extra.

She hands him a hundred.

ROUGH WOMANYou aint a part of the hoodanymore. You should act like abusiness man now.

Poppie gives her two tickets.

BULL

Enough with the advice.

The woman is walking away.

ROUGH WOMANDont be blowin me off, Ill cutyou.

BULLMove on rough girl.

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ROUGH WOMANI heard that, she-man.

She cuts him a look and walks away.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - FRONT - LITTLE ROCK AR.USA -NIGHT

A limousine pulls up and Master Lee gets out in fullTaekwondo Dragon uniform that has an oriental flare. Sun andHiram get out with him dressed to the nines. They walk towardthe Dome together while fans cheer, and police escort them.

INT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - ARENA - LITTLE ROCK AR.

USA - NIGHT

The stadium is full. The lights are bright. Master Lee enterswith his entourage. The fans cheer him.

All of the taekwondo kids are sitting mat-side cheering.

Benny watches Master Lee and his people walk to him mat-side.

Kramer McCain walks to the center of the mat wearing hisusual designer tuxedo with a microphone.

KRAMER

(microphone/loud speakervoice)Lad...ies and gentlemen. Tonight isthe first night of eliminations ofthe incredible Southern ThunderNational Mixed Marital ArtsChampionship. Each martial artistwill have three chances to stay inthe contest. It will roll down tothe best final two showdown for theawesome national championship titleof: Ka-rate Champion of the worldor Tae-kwon-do Champion of the

world. The fight is ON.

The kids cheer.

SAMUELGo Dragon!

Kramer gives the kids a smile.

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KRAMER(microphone/loud speakervoice)

Lets give a huge Southern Thunderwelcome to Master Lees TaekwondoClass, here to support theirTaekwondo Master, the DRA-GON.

The crowd cheers.

Master Lee steps on the mat looking around holding his armsup, greeting his fans. The crowd roars.

BOLO McCAIN (20s), a robust man wearing an ornate full headsock, steps on the mat, looking tough and points at MasterLee.

BOLO

(American West Coastaccent)The end is near.

The crowd roars again. Master Lee smirks.

MASTER LEEFor you.

Bodreau and Sid are at their table mat-side with microphones.

BODREAULooks like there is going to be

real hell on earth tonight. Two ofthe toughest men in the nationalsare face to face.

SIDFace to face and shockingly brutal.I think Bolo is going to terminatethe Dragon with gigantic ease.

BODREAUI dont know The Dragon is lookinggood... Here comes the judge, hesready to start the match...

SIDLet the pain begin.

Judge Call comes to the center of the mat. Kramer greets himwith his microphone.


57.

(MORE)


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Welcome judge, Kennedy Call.(the crowd cheers)

And welcome to the magnificent line-up. The first round of tough...Master THE DRA-GON LEE-ah ... andBOLO McCAIN, both proven champions.

The crowd cheers. The kids cheer.

The judge motions the martial artists to position then fight.

Master Lee and Bolo circle each other with an occasional kickand jab. Bolo goes after Master Lee and Master Lee throws himto the canvas. Bolo quickly gets up and charges again.

Master Lee sees Sun, dressed in beautiful clothes sittingmat-side, next to Poppie and Bull. He is surprised and looks.

Bolo connects with Master Lee. He slams him to the mat with athud.

DISSOLVE TO:

Both fighters are tired and still fighting. Abruptly Bolokicks Master Lee and he goes down and quickly gets up.

JUDGE CALLPoint, Bolo.

Bolo unleashes a barrage of kicks and jabs knocking MasterLee to the mat. He is weak attempting to get up, but is slow.

The judge is holding Bolos arm in the air.

JUDGE CALL (CONTD)Win, Bolo.

Poppie and Bull get up and walk out.

The taekwondo kids appear sad.

The TV cameras pan the mat and stops on Bodreau and Sid.

BODREAU

Who would have believed Bolo couldtake The Dragon out so fast.

SIDLooks bad for The Dragons future.Looks like hes circling the drainand look at those kids.

The kids are sadly leaving.

58.

KRAMER (CONT'D)


60/121

The television cameras turns toward sad Master Lee.

Master Lee stands in his corner with his head down.

Kramer stands in the middle of the mat with his microphone.


The winner of this match is themagnificent... BOLO McCAIN. He willmove on to the last part of theeliminations. Master Lee The Dragonlost and will have one more chanceto stay in the competition or beeliminated, forever. Get yourtickets at TICKET MASTERS, on salenow. Good night, see you next week.

Master Lee leaves the mat with Hiram and Sun walking withhim.

Benny walks to him. The crowd is cheering Master Lees loss.

BENNYWhat happened?

MASTER LEEI just dont have it anymore. Ilost, taekwondo lost.

Benny is discussed.

BENNYWhat kind of talk is that? Youre awinner.

Sun comforts him.

People in the crowd reach to touch Master Lee as they movetoward the dressing rooms while others yell, BOLO, BOLO.

MASTER LEESorry. Im a loser/winner.

BENNYYou got one last chance. Dontscrew it up.

SUNHe wont. Got to much riding on it.

Benny turn and walks away through the crowd.

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EXT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - PARKING LOT - FRONT -LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - NIGHT

Poppie and Bull meet, KITTY (20s), an attractive womanwearing a colorful dress and expensive heels with her tallpretty assistant, CINDY (20s), dressed in a red dress andheels standing beside a black Cadillac sedan.

POPPIEHey girls.

BULLHi Sweet Pea.

The tall Cindy goes to Bull and kisses the top of his head.

Kitty kisses Poppie on the cheek.

POPPIEYou get the money laid-off on Bolo.

KITTY(American Southern accent)

Every dollar.

Poppie smiles.

POPPIECome on lets party. Well pick itup tomorrow.

They all get in the Cadillac and drive away.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. ARKANSAS CIVIL COURTS BUILDING - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA -MORNING

Benny walks with Master Lee, Hiram and Sun toward the courthouse.

Virgil drives by and cocks his thumb pointing his finger atSun as if he is shooting her.

BENNYWho was that crazy idiot?

MASTER LEEThats the thug that robbed theconvenience store.

SUNWhat is he doing on the street.

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Benny shakes his head.

MASTER LEEI heard, someone didnt read hisrights or something and he got off.I dont need this.

SUNI guess that means if you had shoothim, youd get paid.

MASTER LEEMy careers circling the toilet,and now a criminal is suing me.What next?

Everyone nods.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. CIVIL COURTS BUILDING - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - MORNING

Master Lee, Sun, Hiram and Benny walk into the full courtroom.

Virgil walks past.

VIRGILYoure gonna pay for what you did.

MASTER LEEThis is crazy.

Virgil turns back to Master Lee.

VIRGILYou might as well pay. The storeclerk already has.

Master rolls his eyes.

MASTER LEEAre you stupid? You robbed the

store.

Virgil smirks and walk on to the front of the gallery.

Benny stops and introduces everyone to CARL FERGUSON (40s),their attorney, a small smiling man.

BENNYThis is Carl Ferguson, yourattorney.

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CARL(American Southern accent)

Thank you Benny,(shakes their hands)

Nice to meet all of you. Sorry wehavent had a chance to meet, butits okay this is just a discoveryhearing. The real stuff startslater.

Benny, Hiram and Sun go sit in the gallery with several otherpeople. Master Lee sits with Carl at the attorneys table.

Carl looks at JESSE HALE (30s), an average attorney sittingdown with Virgil.

JESSIE(American Midwest accent)

Morning Carl.

CARLHey Jessie. I got a little surprisefor you.

JESSIEAre you writing me a check?

CARLThat was funny.

A BAILIFF (40s), a husky woman walks in next to the judges

podium.

BAILIFF(American Southern accent)

All rise.(the court gets up)

Court is in session in the matterof Virgil Dicks versus Zip Markets,Kenny Chase and Haeng U. Lee.

Carl whispers to Master Lee.

CARL

I represent Zip Market and Kennytoo. Kennys in the hospital so Ihave power of Attorney for him andZip.

MASTER LEEWhy was I subpoenaed and not them?

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CARLThey were, thus the power ofattorney. Be prepared to tell yourstory.

Judge BILL WALKER (40s), walks in and sits at the podiumnodding to the bailiff.

BAILIFFBe seated.

The bailiff sits down at her nearby desk with the courtrecorder.

The judge looks across the court room.

JUDGE WALKER(American Southern accent)

Is counsel ready?

CARLYes your honor.

JESSIEReady your honor.

JUDGE WALKERThe burden of proof is on youcounselor Hale, start yourdiscovery.

Jesse stands buttoning his coat looking confident.

JESSIEYour honor, we have no openingwitnesses. We do state for therecord, that the aggressivebehavior of Mr. Haeng U. Lee, AKAThe Dragon, a professional martialarts fighter excited the storeclerk, Mr. Kenny Chase, distractingMr. Dicks, so the aggressive Mr.Lee could viciously attack myclient Mr. Dicks causing great

bodily harm and mental duress. Ourclaim is for unlawful excessiveforce and egregious bodily andmental harm, seeking five milliondollars, for pain and suffering.

The people in the court gallery rumble a little.

The judge slams his gavel.

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JUDGE WALKERQuiet in the court. Continuecounsel.

The court recorder is typing her last part of the case.Jessie moves nearby.

JESSIEI have submitted a brief to youand opposing counsel with detailsof police reports, state laboratoryreports and any and all evidencegathered by my own team.

The judge nods.

JUDGE WALKERSo noted, thank you. All right

Counsel Ferguson, lets hear fromyou.

Carl stands as Jessie sits down.

CARLThank you your honor. I am appalledwhen I hear a case like this.

JUDGE WALKERWe are not interested in yourfeelings. Let us hear aboutdiscovery.

CARLSorry your honor.

JUDGE WALKERVery well, continue.

CARLAs a point of fact, Virgil Dickswas robbing the zip Conveniencestore at gun point and Mr. Lee wassimply acting in self defense.Further, Mr. Lee, Mr. Chase nor Zip

Convenience Stores Inc were chargedby the District Attorney for anycrime. Mr. Lee was put in aposition to fight for his life andcoincidentally injured Mr. Dicks.There is no civil case here. I havefiled a brief proving this case anda counter suit for damages. Thankyou, your honor.

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The judge looks at them for moment.

JUDGE WALKERThank you counsel. Ill take thishearing under advisement and readthe briefs. An opinion will beissued with an order within tendays.

The judge slams his gavel.

Carl looks at Master Lee as the Judge leaves the bench in thebackground.

CARLYou may go. Ill call when I knowsomething.

Master Lee gets up.

Virgil smirks as he scribbles on a piece of paper, then holdsit up showing a stick figure of a hanged man.

Master Lee moves toward him. Carl grabs his arm.

CARL (CONTD)Not here, hell win for sure if youdo it.

VIRGILBailiff, this man is going to

attack me.

The bailiff walks up.

Jessie cuts Virgil a look. He settles down.

JESSIEIts all right bailiff, just alittle misunderstanding

VIRGILThis aint over. Money ainteverything.

JESSIEYou need to shut-up or get a newattorney.

Virgil puts palms out as a point of surrender.

Master Lee glares at Virgil.

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MASTER LEEBring it low life.

BAILIFFBreak this up or get arrested.

Carl pulls Master Lee to go with him.

CARLNot necessary bailiff, wereleaving.

Benny, Hiram and Sun move toward Master Lee.

The judge looks back at the scene as he leaves the court.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. CIVIL COURTS BUILDING - LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - DAY

Benny, Hiram, Sun, Master Lee and Carl walk to the parkinglot.

Benny stops.

BENNYListen Haeng, I going to get Carlto delay the trial. Maybe thatidiot will rob somebody else and itwill be over. We cant afford for

you to loose another match. So,forget about this case and get totraining.

SUNHe can do it. That last match wasan unlucky deal. Were on now.

BENNYI hope so for his sake. If you loseagain, its over. No moretaekwondo, no more contracts fromSouthern Thunder. Maybe we could

work out a simple job of some kind.

MASTER LEENo charity. I not beat yet.

Benny walks on with Carl.

BENNYThats it. Get tough.

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Master Lee watches for a moment and he and Sun go to his car.

INT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - WEIGHT ROOM - LITTLEROCK AR. USA - DAY

Master Lee is lifting weights while Hiram and Sun watch. Hestops.

Hiram gives him a towel and Sun gives him a bottle of water.

SUNTonights the big one. It down toyou and Iron Man McGerk.

MASTER LEEWeve fought before.

HIRAMHow bad did ya beat him?

Master Lee is silent. Sun looks closer.

SUNHe beat Haeng, broke his arm.

MASTER LEEThat was a long time ago. I think,Im in better shape now.

HIRAM

You been injured and not totallywell, better come up with a betterstrategy.

SUNWe got a strategy, winning.

EXT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - PARKING LOT - FRONT -LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - DAY

Poppie is talking with Bull and ROBERT (40s), an averageSouthern Thunder security guard in the parking lot next to

his black Cadillac.

POPPIEIm going to check out Lee. Helllose again. I just wanta be sure.

ROBERT(American Midwest accent)

Sure boss.

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POPPIEBull, get some cash.

(Bull nods)Have Kitty, lay-off a hundred grandwith some bookies around town. Theygot the odds in Lees favor in abig way this time.

BULLSure boss, aint Benny gonna getmad, if he hears about this?

Poppie cuts a look at Bull.

POPPIEMove it. Bennys never gonna know.Anyways, I gotta hedge myinvestments, dont I?

BULLRight.

POPPIERobert, make sure security backsoff of Lee, thatll help thehecklers distract him, maybe enoughto lose.

Robert walks away with Bull.

BULL

Im on it boss.

Poppie nods.

Bull walks to another nearby Cadillac and drives away asRobert continues to the building.

Poppie walks toward the gym.

EXT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - FRONT - LITTLE ROCK AR.USA - NIGHT

The lights are bright and strobes are everywhere lighting thesky and the building as people pour inside.

A Limousines is parked letting people out to go inside.

A Mercedes Limousine pulls up. The driver opens the door andBenny gets out with GI-GI (20s) and LU-LU (20s), twogorgeous women, wearing sequin dresses and heels. They aremet by two big well dressed BODYGUARDS (30s) that are thereto escort them inside.

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BENNYWere not going to the box. Take usmat-side.

Lu-Lu smiles.

GI-GI(American West Coastaccent)

Oh great right there with all thesnot and blood.

BODYGUARDYes sir.

INT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - ARENA - LITTLE ROCK AR.USA - NIGHT

Benny and his women walk in following the bodyguards.

CLOSE ON - The huge digital screen on the wall flashes news -Southern Thunder Champions flashes across the screen, thenpictures and names of The Dragon and Iron Man McGerk. Finallya picture of the taekwondo kids mat-side cheering.

Benny looks at the signs. He smiles as they move to mat-side.

INT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - MASTER LEES LOCKER ROOM- LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - NIGHT

Master Lee is lying on a massage table. Hiram is checking hiswound, arms and legs. Sun is wrapping one of his ankles withan Ace bandage.

HIRAMThis is it buddy. Take him outearly. Its going to be hard foryou to last the entire match.

MASTER LEEAll right.

SUNShouldve worked harder.

(Master Lee cuts her alook)

Sorry, Im nervous.

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HIRAMHe worked hard enough. We justdidnt have the few years it takesfor the wounds to heal. Just do itearly Haeng.

Master Lee nods.

Sun kisses him on the cheek.

SUNSorry. I know you can do it.

MASTER LEEIts okay, I love you.

SUNDont forget it, when youre

famous.

INT. SOUTHERN THUNDER DOME STADIUM - ARENA - TRAINING AREA -LITTLE ROCK AR. USA - NIGHT

Benny is relaxing talking near the fight mats with KramerMcCain who is sitting with MAXIM STEINBERG (40s), a handsomeNew York banker and KAY (30s) his very pretty wife dressedin a sparkling silver dress.

Bodreau and Sid come in and sit at their color table andadjust their microphones.

Poppie comes in with KITTY (20s), his pretty Girlfriend.

POPPIEHey Benny, Kramer. Hi Girls.

Benny looks at him cold.

BENNYWhat have you been doing, bettingagainst Master Lee? The words out,all over town.

POPPIEI was just tryin to hedge mylosses. The odds are good and hesnot ready.

Benny is up-set. He leans toward Poppie.

BENNYYoure disgusting. Master Lee isour friend, our family.

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POPPIEDont disrespect me like that,right here in public.

BENNYYou deserve it, you two-faced moneygrubber. Youre in business now,not doing deals in the ghetto.

Poppie grabs at Benny and Benny draws back to smack him.

POPPIEIll beat you down.

Kramer gets between them.

KRAMERCome on, you been friends a long

time. Cool off and talk it out.

POPPIELike I care. Im sellin my SouthernThunder crap anyway.

Kitty puts her arm around Poppie.

KITTY(American Southern accent)

You love the place. Just cool off.

POPPIE

Not anymore baby. I cant do thiswith Benny.

Maxim leans forward.

MAXIM(American New York accent)

Im a buyer.

Kay looks at him.

KAY(American New York accent)

Maxim?

MAXIMIts okay sweetheart.

POPPIEGreat, who are you?

MAXIMIm Maxim Steinberg. I have cash.

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Poppie looks for a moment.

POPPIEYoure Bennys banker... okay bigman. I want five million for mypart of Southern Thunder andanother million for expenses I putin.

MAXIMPoppie? Im all about profit, butyoure taking advantage. You paidone million for your part and putin no expenses, Benny did... If youwant to get out of this losingdeal, Ill pay you a million with ahundred thousand profit.

Poppie is amused and shakes his head.

POPPIEA million one, are you crazy?

MAXIMAbout Southern Thunder.

POPPIEAll right, a million for myinvestment and a million for mygrief.

Maxim thinks for a second and nods, then sticks out his hand.

MAXIMWe have a deal.

They shake hands.

POPPIEGood, call my lawyer.

MAXIMTill then, Kramer McCain, and thegirls, are our witnesses to this

arrangement.

POPPIEI aint backing out. I want this.

BENNYGood.

Maxim smiles and sits down. Poppie walks on to his seats, afew chairs down.

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POPPIEShut-up Benny.

Everyone relaxes a little. Benny looks at Maxim out of thecorner of his eye.

BENNYLosing deal?

Maxim smiles.

MAXIMMy accountants and marketers willmove in tomorrow as soon as hesigns.

Benny happily smiles.

BENNYThat guy was a pain.

Suddenly the crowd cheers and music plays.

Bull walks in with CINDY (20s), his pretty girlfriend to sitwith Poppie moving past Benny. He looks at everybodys grimfaces.

BULLWhat happened, somebody fart?

Benny smiles as Bull walks on.

Master Lee walks down the isle in costume with Hiram and Suntoward the mat.

The crowd cheers louder and the taekwondo kids cheer as hegoes past and he stops and looks at them smiling, then moveson. More music plays.

IRON MAN McGERK (20s), a powerful man is walking with twotrainers toward the mat, one carrying a case of SMART WATER.

Benny looks at Maxim and gestures toward Master Lee and IronMan, then the flat screens flash product advertising.

BENNYYoull make your two million backtonight on advertising alone.

MAXIMThat why were partners Benny. Youknow your business.

Master Lee and Iron man step on the mat.

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Kramer stands in the middle gesturing toward them as thecrowd cheers.

The crowd chants and holds up signs touting their favoritefighter or sport; karate or taekwondo.

Kramer Looks around the arena.


La...dies and gentlemen. Welcome tothe American National LeagueChampionship, featuring Master TheDra...gon Lee, taekwondochampion... and Ir...on ManMc...Gerk, ka-rate champion.Tonight only one walks away with

the national championship and thecoveted silver belt of fame.

The kids cheer.

Lulu holds up the championship belt high above her headsmiling.

The crowd cheers.

LEONARDGo Dragon.

SUE ELLENTaekwondo!

Television cameras focus on the fighters, the kids and Lulu,then they move to Bodreau and Sid sitting at their table infront of microphones.

BODREAUWill you look at that.

Sid turns to Bodreau and the cameras.

SID

The fanfare is huge. These two guysare real box office, not to mentionmajor champions. Will it be Karateor Taekwondo?

BODREAUI see taekwondo kids think itstaekwondo. Its a real smack-downtonight, for the National MartialArts Championship...

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SIDAnd the first step to the SouthernThunder International milliondollar destroyer takes all. Theworld championship and a massivegold belt worth, another milliondollars.

Bodreau looks directly at the television cameras.

BODREAUThe time is now. Tomorrow theSouthern Thunder Internationalcompetition starts and Little Rockwill never be the same.

SIDAll of these Federation

championships are open to allcomers. It doesnt matter aboutweight class, amateur orchampionship status. Anybody has achance at the million.

BODREAUThats right, anybody that knowsmartial arts can challenge, andanybody can win. ITS ON!

Sid gestures toward the flat screen televisions on the wall.

CLOSE ON - flat screens - they show pictures of the foreignmartial artists getting off of an airplanes, out of taxis andwalking into the stadium.

The cameras go back to Sid.

SIDAs you can see, Foreign martialartist from around the world arealready coming in for the Southern;Flames Flanigan won in Canada, TomTwo-Tone Capin is the champion fromthe UK, Luther Sultan Sultana from

India...

BODREAUYeah, the Russians are here toowith Vladimir Stone Man Yankowskyrepresenting them, Bing Chop Changfrom China, Tonka The Bomber Toyotafrom Japan and the list goes on.Some Karate and some Taekwondo.

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SIDThis is big stuff and Benny Wang ofthe Little Rock federation has madeit all possible.

Kramer looks around the mat smiling. The crowd is stillcheering. Lulu puts her sign down and goes to sit with Benny.

Kramer waves to Benny.


And tonight, Ladies and gentlemen,we have an honored guest from theWomens martial arts League... Themagnificent, Ja... ne The Fire...Lloy...d, welcome Jane.

Janes rock-n-roll theme song plays.

JANE THE FIRE LLOYD (20s), a very shapely beautiful woman,wearing a silk summer dress stands from a mat-side seat andthrows Kramer a kiss and waves to the crowd.

The crowd goes wild cheering even more than for Lulu. A heavymale FAN (40s), yells out.

FAN(American Midwest accent)

Go Jane!

Jane throws the fan a kiss, then she turns to Kramer andgives him another air kiss.

Kramer smiles and acknowledges Janes kiss. He looks around,gesturing to Judge Call, the evening official for the match.


Welcome Jane and welcome thisevenings internationally sanctionedchampionship judge, Kennedy CALL.

The crowd cheers and some boo.

FAN(American Southern accent)

Bad ref!

Kramer smiles and turns to the judge.

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Lets have a FIRE-STORM!

The taekwondo kids cheer.

The judge motions for the fighters to come to the center ofthe mat. Kramer leaves.

Master Lee and Iron Man face each other. The judgeinauditibly and quietly speaks to them.

The crowd cheers again. Some of the crowd chants - DRAGON-DRAGON-DRAGON, while other chant, IRON MAN, IRON MAN.

The judge positions himself and the martial artists squareoff. The judge signals to fight and the fighters begin to

circle each other.

AMERICAN TAEKWONDO Eye of the Dragon

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Transcript of AMERICAN TAEKWONDO Eye of the Dragon