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Page 1: Road, Movie (Script)

raoD maUvaI

original screenplay by

Dev Benegal

[email protected] www.augustentertainment.com

WGA# 132208

Property & © Dev Benegal 2005

draft dated August 15, 2008 Independence Day

Official Selection Festival de Cannes 2006

Atelier du Cannes

(Road, Movie) (beneath the diamond sky)

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1 AN OPEN FIELD, PRESENT DAY -- DAWN 1

SILENCE. A barren field. Cracked dry earth.

A cloth stretches across, forming a gigantic cinema screen-blowing in the wind. A movie image flickering on it.

OPJ- 60's with thinning hair, stares at it transfixed. His eyes hollow with a sense of loss.

The wind picks up- growing stronger and stronger. Thecloth billows and breaks free from it's moorings. Theimage flickers in a world between.

OPJ chases the screen as it floats away across the openfield. He gives up helplessly and watches it become aspeck in the sky and turns to the green truck behind him.

2 EXT. ROOFTOP -- DAWN 2

VISHNU, in his 20's dressed sharply- straight out of amagazine looks across the blue rooftops of ALWAR. Dawn inthis small town in modern day Rajasthan, India is alwaysspectacular. But it seems to have no effect on him.

He spots the green truck pull into the parking lot of thedecrepit cinema next door.

He pulls himself together and trudges down to work.

3 INT. SMALL WORKSHOP, PRESENT DAY -- MORNING 3

VISHNU stares blankly at his father's open palm.

ATMA- 60's has thick hair slicked back. He pours thickgreen oil on his palm. VISHNU hears the glug, glug soundof oil pouring. It overwhelms everything else as we seeVISHNU'S world come alive.

ATMA sniffs the bouquet of oil like a fine wine and shovesit under VISHNU'S nose.

ATMASmell this, Vishnu. Get to knowit. It's your future.

VISHNU chokes.

ATMA (CONT'D)Now what do we say? A full headof hair... go on...

VISHNU(reluctantly)

And everything else is an illusion.

ATMA smiles and points to the empty cartons.

(CONTINUED)

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VISHNU'S eyes sweep across the small workshop. Rows ofold style glass bottles marked HAIR OIL create aclaustrophobic feel.

Two old elderly MEN sit on the floor and grind suspiciouslooking flowers, leaves and herbs. Oil of different kindsis being prepared.

VISHNU picks up up a bottle with his finger tips. Makingminimum contact, BUT the oil flows onto his hands. Hewipes his hands with a cloth. It's greasy. More oil onhis hands. He curses under his breath.

He takes a fresh cloth, holds each bottle carefully,avoiding all contact and fills the cartons.

4 EXT. STREETS OF ALWAR -- MORNING 4

VISHNU drives their old Vespa. ATMA rides pillion.

VISHNU looks quite the dude; Ray Ban's, Red tab Levi's,Nike T-Shirt. He's got the labels right.

But the bike is out of control.

ATMA holds on for dear life. Trying to save his own lifeand the cartons of hair oil nestled between them.

5 INT. CONVENTION HALL IN A 2-STAR HOTEL -- CONTINUOUS 5

VISHNU'S eyes take in middle aged men in all sizes andshapes, talking passionately about grooming products-shampoo, conditioners, gels, sprays, mousse, herbs...

It's a convention of hair oil salesmen.

VISHNU hears the sloshing sound of hair oil. It overwhelmshim. He inches towards the exit, attempting to slip away.

ATMA yanks him back. He stares at his tousled hair indisgust.

ATMAOil your hair. Be a man. Lookat me.

VISHNU'S eyes focus instead on the TV set in the corner. He tunes in to the news flash.

NEWSREADER ON TVDrought conditions in Alwarcontinue. Law enforcement agenciesare cracking down on the watermafia who have blocked supply toour city and raised the price ofwater. Later we'll be tellingyou what you can do to savewater...

(CONTINUED)

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On stage the convention PRESIDENT, in a bright businesssuit trying to look sophisticated speaks in platitudes.

PRESIDENTThe future is staring at us. Let's embrace it. With new ideas,new products. Like the Chinese.

(pause)Forget the past. It's anothercountry.

ATMA tries to catch the eyes of buyers. But they justignore his display and walk past. The bottles lie unsold.

6 EXT. CONVENTION HALL IN A 2-STAR HOTEL -- LATER 6

They silently pack their product and make their way out.

7 INT. SMALL WORKSHOP -- DAY 7

OPJ sits across the table. His head in a baseball cap. He removes his cap to reveal thinning hair.

OPJFind a solution Atma. This newstuff just doesn't work for me.

ATMA inspects his thinning scalp like a skin specialist.

OPJ (CONT'D)I leave tomorrow. Found a buyerfor my truck.

Atam looks at him questioningly.

OPJ (CONT'D)A museum.

ATMAGood money?

OPJ shakes his head sideways- comme ci comme ca

ATMA (CONT'D)Better than a dump yard, huh.

(pause)And... you're driving?

OPJSick of staring at the televisionall day long.

ATMA nods in agreement.

ATMAGive me a day. I'll come up withsomething special for you.

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8 ON THE FLOOR -- LATER 8

There's an oil slick. VISHNU takes of his shoes and treadsacross carefully. But slips and falls.

Oil covers his clothes and face.

The old worker smirks.

9 INT. VISHNU'S BATHROOM -- CONTINUOUS 9

VISHNU under the trickling shower, scrubs the oil out.

His MOTHER screams from outside.

MOTHERDon't waste the water! I stillhave to do the wash. There's adrought in case you don't know.

VISHNU looks towards the sound. And then opens the faucet. FULL. There's a hollow gurgle. NO water. VISHNU panics. He coaxes a drop out. And suddenly water gushes out. Helets it run and run and run.

10 EXT. VISHNU'S ROOM -- CONTINUOUS 10

VISHNU steps out wrapped in a towel. His SISTER ismaniacally texting on her phone. He shoos her out.

Alone, he scrubs himself dry. He looks in the mirror. He's looking good. He's feeling good. He reaches for acomb. His hand brushes a bottle. It falls. And thathideous, viscous green oil oozes out; rushing towardsVISHNU.

VISHNU recoils. And slowly steps back out of his room.

11 INT. ATMA'S HOME -- NIGHT 11

It's a simple meal like their austere home. The familyis clearly just making ends meet.

ATMAVishnu, I've got it. Here's theanswer.

Suddenly the lights go out. There's a collective groan. There's a hubbub to get the candles. The MOTHER shootsout instructions- clearly the one in control of this home.

The candles bring a warmth to the dinner table.

ATMA (CONT'D)OK now listen carefully. Two forone. OK, three for one. Repackageit in red. Green. Sell it atcolleges. To people who are young. It's cool. No, it cools yourhead. Gives virility.

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ATMA (CONT'D)(pause)

To women, it's calming... No tothe middle aged. Stops hair fall,it's medicinal, is anaphrodisiac... the possibilitiesare endless...

VISHNU stares at his father. He's a pathetic sight butever so stubborn.

ATMA leans back and stretches his arms.

ATMA (CONT'D)Get to know your customer. That'sthe new way to do business. Eyeto eye. Door to Door.

VISHNU tries his best to nod.

ATMA (CONT'D)That's what you'll do. Sell theoil, door to door.

VISHNU chokes.

His SISTER tries to suppress a smirk. But it's hard. Themore she tries the more she fails. Finally she can'tcontrol herself and begins to laugh.

ATMA glares at his daughter. The MOTHER stares at herdaughter and then begins to laugh slowly.... and thenuncontrollably.

VISHNU squirms in his chair.

12 EXT. CINEMA THEATRE -- DAY 12

VISHNU- gingerly holds a bottle between his fingertipsand makes his way towards OPJ and his son UDAY.

A large film billboard dangles at an angle from the roof.

A new billboard rises to replace it. The sign reads:"Orange County. 7 Star Luxury Apartments. Maid Service& Housekeeping so you won't have to lift a finger. NonStop Power, Swimming Pools, Health Club, Sauna. Yourhome is now a hotel. Pamper yourself all your life."

A few nattily dressed real estate developers smile.

The green truck stands by the side. It's old; a 1943Chevy, rounded bonnet not in fashion and certainly not inpresent day ALWAR.

VISHNU hands a bottle of oil to OPJ. He smells it andchokes. And then nods in approval. VISHNU ekes out areluctant smile. UDAY can't suppress his smirk. VISHNUignores him.

(CONTINUED)

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DEVELOPERAnd the truck, shall I scrap thattoo?

OPJ ignores him. The DEVELOPER holds up his cell phone.

DEVELOPER (CONT'D)It's all on this now.

UDAY smiles in agreement. OPJ'S glare stops them in theirtracks. He pats the flank of the truck fondly and stepsup on the footboard.

OPJWhat would you know? It's a Chevy1943. I fitted it with two GermanBauer movie projectors and madeit a cinema on wheels. Theultimate home theater. Giganticscreen, big sound, cool breeze,open air...

(pause)It was cool, had style...

The DEVELOPER realises he's over stepped.

DEVELOPEROh no sir. You'll always be apioneer. Ahead of your timessir.

The DEVELOPER hands out a cheque.

DEVELOPER (CONT'D)Alwar will change. Trust me,this is the future.

OPJ looks away. UDAY intervenes and deftly accepts it.

13 EXT. BLUE STREETS OF CITY -- MORNING 13

VISHNU jogs. Negotiating the bustling narrow blue streets.

14 EXT. CINEMA THEATER -- CONTINUOUS 14

The film billboard has vanished. The "Orange County"billboard stands in solitary splendor.

VISHNU spots OPJ with his bags- all set to leave.

OPJ struggles to put the bags in but can't get a grip. VISHNU runs up to give him a hand. OPJ waves him away.

VISHNU peers in. The drivers cab is cramped. The ironsteering and pedals are from another era.

OPJUday was born in this. Now he hates it. Sees it as asheet of metal.

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OPJ (CONT'D)(pause)

Heartless lot, your generation.

VISHNU gingerly runs his finger along the rusted body.

OPJ (CONT'D)Maybe he's right. I should moveon. Learn to accept the new way.

Now OPJ is finding it hard to climb the steep steps ofthe truck. VISHNU helps him up. But OPJ is stubborn- hepushes VISHNU away.

VISHNUWhy don't you get a driver?

OPJI'm not that old. I can do it. And I miss the road.

(pause)The cool breeze, the sweet tea,the purr of the engine...

VISHNU looks at the truck and suddenly smells freedom.

VISHNUI'll do the job for you.

OPJ looks at him and then laughs unconvinced.

VISHNU (CONT'D)I'll drive.

OPJGive your father a hand. Selloil. He needs you.

VISHNU shakes his head- now adamant and stubborn.

VISHNU(softly and withresolve)

I don't want to sell oil, all mylife.

VISHNU takes OPJ'S bags and puts them back on the ground. OPJ is surprised. But VISHNU is determined. He puts hishands out for the keys. There's a longing in his eyes. OPJ recognizes that. He smiles- gradually, pats the truckaffectionately and hands VISHNU the keys.

OPJDrive in a straight line. Steadyat 40. Go easy on the clutch. There's enough fuel to last you 6days.

(pause)Don't forget to collect the moneyfrom the Museum Curator.

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15 EXT. VISHNU'S ROOM -- NIGHT 15

A frenzy of packing. VISHNU throws his life into theempty suitcase. The Ray Bans, the music cell phone, theroad map, hair gel, after shave gel, deodorant, perfume...

His SISTER opens the map and stares at the thin blue line. Her finger traces his route until it ends at the seaside. She looks up at him in envy.

SISTERThe City by the Sea. You'relucky....

(and then worried)But it's over a thousandkilometers. And there are noroads. No maps. What if you getlost?

VISHNU ignores her.

SISTER (CONT'D)What are you running from V?

(pause)Are you coming back?

16 EXT. HOUSE -- DAWN 16

Its dark.

VISHNU sneaks out of the house. Relief. Freedom.

BUT his MOTHER is at the door- formidable as ever. Thelook in her eyes says: you can run but you can never hide.

MOTHERI think it's madness. What areyou trying to prove?

And in the next breath she's gentle and understanding.

MOTHER (CONT'D)Did you pack any food? You'lleat at a truckers stop?

And then the general commandeering a military operation.

MOTHER (CONT'D)(to the Maid)

Boil the potatoes. I'll make himparathas. Fill up the bottles. Give him 6. No make it 12. Hecan't eat out everyday.

And now god fearing- she smears red vermillion powder onVISHNU'S forehead and does a small prayer.

VISHNU protests.

(CONTINUED)

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MOTHER (CONT'D)Don't make fun of tradition. It's as much yours as it's mine. You're going to be away for weeks.

SISTER6 days, Ma. That's ONE week.

MOTHERLoad the truck. Don't questionme.

His SISTER and the MAID load the truck with food and water.

MOTHER (CONT'D)Vishnu go easy on the waterbottles.

(pause)I've heard there's no water outthere.

His SISTER crawls beneath the front of the truck and tiesa bunch of green chillies and lemon to the chassis.

VISHNUHey, hey!

SISTERWhy do you knock every tradition.

MOTHERIt'll ward off the evil eye. There are bandits in that region.

And then just as VISHNU is climbing into the truck a blearyeyed ATMA runs out. He and the old workers are carryingseveral boxes of hair oil. They load it in the back.

VISHNU looks at him in shock.

ATMAVishnu, now if you can't sellhair oil out there... you won'tbe able to sell water in a desert.

(pause)Remember, what we say...?

VISHNU stares at him embarrassed. ATMA waits. He's notletting go even at this hour.

ATMA & VISHNU"A good head of hair and everythingelse is an illusion."

He climbs into the cab. As his body is swallowed by theold truck the MOTHER clutches her heart theatrically.

VISHNU is in the drivers cabin looking quite out of place.

(CONTINUED)

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SISTERText me.

MOTHERCan't you speak to one another? Isn't it easier? What's thistext- shext?

The truck lurches off.

ATMACareful. The bottles will break.

The family waves out, rooted to the road.

17 EXT. STREETS OF ALWAR -- DAWN 17

The billboard from OPJ'S cinema crosses the street. Heldhigh by four MEN like pall bearers at a funeral procession.

VISHNU slows the truck and gives way.

18 EXT. ROAD -- LATER 18

A few turns and suddenly the town drops away.

The road is an arrow piercing directly into the heartland.

The truck is like an elephant. Lumbering slowly down theroad; the only sign of life in this wilderness.

The expanse is endless and breathtaking.

19 INSIDE THE DRIVER'S CAB -- CONTINUOUS 19

In contrast the cab is a claustrophobic metal box.

VISHNU shifts restlessly. The hard metal seat hurts.

He changes gear. The stick-shift is stubborn. His elbowrams into the wooden bunk behind his seat.

VISHNU looks out. It's rough and rocky; like banditcountry. He turns to his cell phone for comfort. Thesignal is at max. He turns on the cell phone radio.

In go the earphones. On comes the music; a thumping dancetrack on the Top 20's. He smiles as he shuts out the world. Bouncing up and down. But is it the road or the music?

The earphones keep dropping out of his ears. And he'shaving trouble keeping them in. The road is way too bumpy. Finally in frustration he gives up.

No music. Just the roar of the truck and the incessantchirping of cicadas.

The signal on his cell phone drops- the first sign he isleaving civilization. He wipes the vermilion powder offhis forehead.

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20 EXT. ROAD -- LATER 20

A young BOY- 12, runs onto the road. Flagging the truckdown. Directing it towards the truck stop.

Cramped and tired VISHNU gives in and pulls over.

21 OUTSIDE 21

He stretches his body in relief and looks around.

A tin shed and two rope-weave cots make a truckers stop.

The BOY cleans a plastic table with a dirty rag and pointsto the red plastic chair.

BOYHey driver, what do you want?

(pause)Tea, biscuits, some lunch...

VISHNUI'm not a driver.

BOYDidn't you drive up in that truck?

VISHNU ignores him. But the BOY just goes on.

BOY (CONT'D)Well, then you're the driver. What else do I call you?

VISHNU(firmly)

Tea and biscuits. Which ones doyou have? Glucose?

BOYTiger. It's like Glucose. Sweetn' cheap.

(pause)Driver!

VISHNUIt's MY truck.

BOYYeah, but you're still the driver.

The BOY sets the tea and biscuits on the table gentlywith a theatrical flourish.

He smiles having had the last word.

VISHNU sips the tea. It's bitter and awful. He makes aface.

BOY (CONT'D)What do you expect? Starbucks?

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22 EXT. TRUCK STOP -- MOMENTS LATER 22

A small tanker pulls up. Two burly MEN, faces swathed incloth get off. VISHNU notices guns slung around theirshoulders. He stiffens and notices the BOY does too.

The taciturn OWNER yells from the counter to the BOY.

VISHNUYour dad's calling you.

BOYNot my dad, I just work here.

The BOY scurries over reluctantly.

He drags two empty vats and places them beneath a tap atthe rear of the tanker.

The OWNER peels a few notes. The burly gun MAN opens thetap. Water gushes out and fills the vat.

The MEN take aim with their rifles randomly, adding tothe tension in the air. A barrel points at VISHNU. Hefreezes to the spot and looks away. The MEN laugh.

The barrel moves to the BOY. The burly MAN pokes the BOYwith his gun. The second MAN joins in. The BOY is closeto tears. The MEN laugh at their perverted prank.

The vat fills up. The MEN shut the tap, get in the truckand drive off- laughing.

The BOY drags the filled vats back, putting a brave face.

VISHNU quietly pays at the counter and walks to his truck.

23 BY THE TRUCK -- CONTINUOUS 23

He lights a cigarette and takes a deep drag. His bodyeasing up in relief.

The BOY creeps up from behind. VISHNU is startledmomentarily. He hides the cigarette in a reflex actionand then seeing it's the BOY is annoyed.

VISHNUPiss off.

BOYDon't stop because of me.

VISHNUDon't tell me what to do.

The BOY continues regardless.

BOY(whispering)

Hey, can you give me a ride?(MORE)

(CONTINUED)

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BOY (CONT'D)(pause)

Till the next town.

VISHNU(emphatically)

NO, I'm not going there.

The BOY tries to make eye contact but VISHNU looks away.

BOYLook I need a new job.

VISHNUDidn't you hear me?

(speaking slowly)I'm not going there.

BOYI want to get away from here.

(pleading)Pleeease.

VISHNU stops. For a moment the BOY reminds him of himself.

VISHNUIf you open your mouth I'll throwyou out.

(pause)From the moving truck. You'lldie...

BOYOK, OK. I get the point. Won'tsay a word.

VISHNU is unconvinced.

BOY (CONT'D)(pinching his adam'sapple)

Promise

VISHNU points to the seat with a tilt of his head. TheBOY darts across and gets in.

24 INSIDE THE TRUCK 24

BOYPhew! It stinks.

VISHNUOUT.

BOY(apologetically)

Sorry.

Vishnu stares, but the Boy turns away to look out of thewindow. The clutch slips. The truck lurches forward.

(CONTINUED)

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The BOY flies smack into the windshield. VISHNU looks athis bloody nose and bursts out laughing.

The BOY glares back, mouth firmly shut and raises a smallfist at VISHNU in defiance.

25 INT. TRUCK -- CONTINUOUS 25

The cabin is getting warm.

VISHNU wipes the beads of perspiration off his face. Butthe BOY is quite composed. The heat doesn't affect him.

The BOY looks around taking all the details in. The cellphone, the bunk at the back of the cab, the rolledmattresses, the jerry cans of diesel, the pictures ofgods and goddesses and a small map with directions andsome areas marked with a cross.

And just as VISHNU is settling in the BOY screams.

BOYSTOP, STOP!

VISHNU hits the breaks without question. Before the truckcan come to a stop the BOY has leapt out of the door.

BOY (O.S.) (CONT'D)Wait, I'm coming.... one minute.

VISHNU spots him standing behind a bush. It looks likehe is peeing. VISHNU smiles.

Suddenly, the BOY darts off. VISHNU looses sight of him.

26 IN THE TRUCK- MOMENTS LATER 26

VISHNU looks at his watch impatiently. He looks out. There is no sign of the BOY.

VISHNUHey, BOY. BOY!

(muttering)What's your damned name?

(shouting)BOY, where the hell are you?

He spots him in the distance. So far away he can barelymake out. Scurrying between bushes. Chasing something.

At the top of the hill the BOY waves out to VISHNU. He'ssaying something but VISHNU can't hear.

Before VISHNU can react the BOY has vanished again.

VISHNU mutters a curse and gets back in the truck. Heeases the clutch and drives on.

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27 INT. TRUCK -- CONTINUOUS 27

The truck turns the bend when he spots the BOY racingtowards him, yelling desperately.

BOYWait for me. Wait for me! Whereare you going?

VISHNU doesn't stop. He drives on. But the truck isslow and the BOY keeps pace even though he's out of breath.

28 ON THE ROAD 28

The BOY runs faster. VISHNU keeps driving.

There's no sign of his slowing down or even stopping.

It's BOY vs. truck.

The BOY runs faster. The truck moves faster- in stopsand starts, looking more like Groucho Marx running.

The BOY comes closer to the truck and in one smooth moveleaps into the cab through the window of the moving truck.

29 IN THE TRUCK 29

VISHNU doesn't look at him. Eyes fixed on the road. Hejust snaps.

VISHNUWhat was all that for?

The BOY glares at him. Mouth firmly shut.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Aren't you going to say something?

The BOY looks away.

VISHNU (CONT'D)So you're not talking to me?

(pause)YOU are annoyed with me. Jumpoff a moving truck...

(pause)WELL?

BOYYou told me not to speak.

VISHNU grits his teeth in frustration.

BOY (CONT'D)This truck doesn't move it crawls. I can walk faster. Now if itwere a Toyota...

(CONTINUED)

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VISHNU takes this personally. He shifts the gear andhits the gas. The truck leaps forward moving faster now.

FASTER, FASTER, FASTER.

The ride gets rockier. The truck unstable. The BOY looksaway. The silent impasse continues.

And suddenly in the middle of nowhere there's a loudhissing sound and the engine dies.

The BOY sniggers. VISHNU implicates him with a glare. The BOY shrugs his shoulders denying any responsibility.

30 ON THE ROAD 30

VISHNU touches the bonnet of the truck. His hand getssinged. He recoils. And the BOY laughs.

VISHNU lashes out at him.

VISHNUThis is your fault. I couldstrangle you. You've got onehell of an attitude.

(pause)What were you running after?

(pause)Curse the day I pulled over atyour shop.

BOYCurse the truck. It's over thehill.

(pause)Not me.

VISHNUOh yeah? And what are you goingto do now? Fly?

(raising his voice)Find someone to fix this. Orelse it's back to working at thattea shop.

The BOY'S defiance subdues. VISHNU'S threat seems tohave hit home.

VISHNU pulls out his cell phone. The signal comes andgoes. Giving him a sense of hope. He hops around like aballet dancer trying to catch the signal.

A solitary MAN ON A BICYCLE rides by. He stares at VISHNUjumping around, cell phone held high in the air.

VISHNU stops him.

VISHNU (CONT'D)How far is the nearest town?

(CONTINUED)

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MAN ON BICYCLEAbout an hour away.

VISHNU nods. And then suddenly...

VISHNUOn your bike or on this truck?

The MAN ON THE BICYCLE looks at the weather-beaten truck,a dour expression on his face.

MAN ON BICYCLEOn my bike it'll take you an hour.

(pause)On that truck, who knows? Nightfall, maybe tomorrow?

His voice trails off as he rides away. And suddenly theBOY darts behind him. He stops him and after a briefexchange hops on the back to VISHNU'S amazement.

VISHNU(yelling out)

Running away again?

They ride off leaving VISHNU stranded on the road.

31 NIGHT FALLS 31

It's pitch black and the sky is a carpet of stars.

VISHNU pulls out a bottle of water and his MOTHER'Scarefully wrapped food. He looks around for a place tosit and eat.

He settles in on the steps at the rear of the truck. Hebites into his food in relief not noticing the streak ofoil dripping from the side onto his Levi's.

Moments later he jumps up feeling something damp.

He stares in disgust at the oil stain on his jeans. Hetries to wipe it off with some paper and drops his foodon the road. He stares at it and then kicks it away indisgust.

Angry and hungry he takes out more food. This time hemoves away from the truck. But the only place is on thedusty ground.

He lays out an old newspaper and sits gingerly on it afraidto make contact with the earth.

He eats in silence.

32 IN THE TRUCK, LATER 32

VISHNU stares weary eyed at the bunk. He pulls out apair of boxers and a spotless white T-shirt.

(CONTINUED)

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In the middle of the barren road he glances around to seeif anyone is looking and then hurriedly changes.

VISHNU crawls into the bunk and stretches out across thefront seats. The stick shift hits him between his legs. He doubles up in pain.

He gives up and crawls back into the bunk clutching thebox of food and his cell phone for comfort.

FADE OUT:

33 INT. TRUCK -- DAWN 33

The BOY is shaking VISHNU. He is groggy and disoriented. The light is bright and strong even at this early hour.

BOYI found him.

VISHNUWho? What?

BOYA Mechanic. Someone to fix thetruck. C'mon, wake up!

VISHNU jumps out of the cab totally disheveled. He looksat his T-Shirt now dirty and dust laden. And is suddenlyembarrassed. He grabs his clothes and rushes to the backto change. On come his jeans, his T-shirt and Ray Bans.

He struts out fully dressed, ready to take on the worldand stops dead in his tracks.

In front of him stands OM, 60- wearing an odd ensemble ofclothes, with an old army surplus jacket thrown over. His large frame is overbearing and intimidating.

OM looks VISHNU up and down. His shifty eyes taking inevery detail of the truck.

VISHNU eyes him suspiciously.

VISHNUAre you a mechanic? What do youknow about trucks?

OM prods the closed bonnet with his stick.

OMIt's an old truck.

VISHNU glares at OM in disbelief and eyeballs the BOY.

BOY(mumbling)

He said he could....

(CONTINUED)

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OM(to the Boy)

Hey, is the deal still on? OrI'm leaving.

The BOY looks at VISHNU and OM and shrugs helplessly.

Vishnu looks at them and the empty road. He realises hehas no choice.

He pulls out his wallet.

VISHNUOK how much? Just fix this junk. I've lost half a day. Time'srunning out.

OM ignores him and calls out to the BOY.

OMOpen the bonnet.

OM looks inside, tugs a few cables, checks the sparks,checks the oil, wipes the carburetor with his dirty shirt. The engine is marked 1943.

OM (CONT'D)1943. I told you it's old. Don'tbuild them like this anymore. What would you know?

VISHNU glares at OM in disbelief.

OM (CONT'D)Two wires. On the double. Andstop questioning me.

VISHNU looks around not knowing where to begin.

OM (CONT'D)(firmly)

Beneath the seat.

VISHNU looks beneath the drivers seat. In a small batteredtool box he finds two wires.

OM (CONT'D)(mutters)

Time's running out, my arse. What do you know about time?

OM slides beneath the truck. SUDDENLY the engine stutters,the body shudders and the green truck comes to life.

OM sticks his head out and smiles cockily.

VISHNU looks unimpressed.

OM slides out and waddles into the drivers cab.

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VISHNUHey, hey, this isn't a bus service!

OMListen up. The Boy and I had adeal. I'll fix your truck, you'lldrop me to the fair.

(pause)And you can keep your filthy cash.

VISHNU(still annoyed)

What fair? I'm not driving tothe fair.

OM tosses the notes back to VISHNU.

34 INSIDE THE TRUCK 34

OM lays himself in the back and lets out a loud sigh ofrelief.

VISHNUHey, that's my bed! I sleep here.

OM ignores him.

OM(irritated)

Hurry up, Driver.

The BOY has the last laugh.

Annoyed- VISHNU hurriedly slips the truck into gear. Theengine stutters and stalls. OM yells.

OM (CONT'D)Hit the clutch, HARD! Now hitthe gas. ALL THE WAY!

Beads of sweat appear on VISHNU'S forehead. The enginesuddenly roars back to life.

OM (CONT'D)Yesss! Keep it running.

(pause)Now slowly ease off. SLOOOOW!

OM smiles in triumph. VISHNU is relieved the engine ispurring. They take off without a hitch.

35 INSIDE THE TRUCK 35

OM surveys every inch of the truck. VISHNU looks at himfrom the corner of his eyes. He is uncomfortable.

OM(laughs)

I won't bite. (MORE)

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OM (CONT'D)(pause)

1943.

And then he laughs.

VISHNU isn't listening. His eyes are on the road; sofixed and focused that he's not noticing anything else. Not the bronze landscape nor the azure sky.

He's annoyed. His truck invaded by people he had neverplanned to have on board.

VISHNU(muttering)

Five more days and I'll be fine.

OMWhat?

VISHNUNever mind...

36 EXT. ROAD -- LATER 36

The truck trundles on.

37 INT. TRUCK -- MOMENTS LATER 37

A Police jeep raises it's siren. In the outback it'sintensity startles VISHNU. He hits the breaks. The truckgoes out of control. He swerves to a side road.

The cops think VISHNU is escaping. Their jeep races aheadsirens blazing and veers sharply blocking the truck.

SCREECH. The truck grinds to a halt inches away from thejeep. It's a narrow miss.

38 EXT. ROAD -- CONTINUOUS 38

The CONSTABLE followed by the CHIEF of Police emerge withsub machine guns. They are armed, unshaven and lookthreatening as they approach the truck.

A huge stash of marijuana grass and a peasant trussedlike a turkey are in the open back.

The CONSTABLE raps at the drivers window.

CONSTABLEPapers? License?

VISHNU fumbles for his license and hands it over.

The CHIEF takes one look at it, sneers and pockets it.

CHIEFIt's for a motorbike. Papers forthe truck?

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VISHNU(mumbles)

Papers? But it's worthless...

OM sighs impatiently.

OMChief... It's an old truck, it'sbroken... I've just fixed it.

CHIEFOld man, I have to check everysuspicious vehicle that goesthrough my jurisdiction.

OMYou call this suspicious?

CHIEFWe got word that Veeru theWaterlord was transporting largequantities of water illegallyacross the state.

OMYou've got to be joking. Youthink a Waterlord would use thistruck?

The CHIEF raps the butt of his gun to the large padlockon the side of the truck.

CHIEFOPEN THE BACK.

The CONSTABLE arms his submachine gun in VISHNU'S face. The sound is loud and shatters the calm of thesurroundings.

VISHNU fumbles with the keys and unlocks the large padlock. The CHIEF climbs inside to take a better look.

CHIEF (CONT'D)What's this?

(voice rising)Stolen equipment?

OM rushes over.

OMDoes this Boy look like a thief? Can you leave us alone now? Haven't you had made your moneyfor the day?

CHIEFOld man, explain this.

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39 INSIDE THE TRUCK 39

OM stands upright and looks around. His eyes slowlyadjusting to the mess inside. He stands transfixed for afew moments.

And then... begins to laugh.

OM is staring at two large projectors wrapped in cloth,like a Christo sculpture. A movie poster peeks out frombehind, cans of films lie scattered all over, amplifiers,cables, metal horn style loudspeakers; everything a cinemaon wheels might need.

OM is bouncing up and down; excited like a child.

OMYou clever bastard! So that'swhat you are up to.

VISHNU is speechless.

OM (CONT'D)Do you know what you have in here?

VISHNUIt's scrap. Been sitting in ajunk yard for years...

OM shakes his head in disgust. The BOY is peering inside,wide eyed.

OMThat's not scrap. It's a bloodycinema on wheels.

BOY(excited)

Are you going to show movies?

But the CHIEF isn't impressed.

CHIEFDo you have a license to showmovies?

VISHNU has no answer. The CHIEF barks.

CHIEF (CONT'D)FOLLOW US.

VISHNU snaps out of his state of fear.

He runs after the CHIEF calling out in protest.

VISHNUSir, I've got to get this truckacross the state...

(MORE)

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VISHNU (CONT'D)(desperate)

It's a piece of junk... it's afavour... for a friend.

The CONSTABLE hits him in the gut with the butt of hisrifle. VISHNU staggers back.

The CHIEF turns and eyeballs him.

CHIEFYou don't have a license to drivethis. No papers for the truck.You could be a thief on the run. You're transporting film, it'sflammable. Do you know that? And this Boy? You traffickingchildren? I could go on?

40 ON THE ROAD 40

The cops drive off, sirens blazing.

41 EXT. POLICE OUTPOST -- LATER 41

A concrete bunker out nowhere makes the Police Outpost. A pole with no flag in front. No sign of life.

42 INT. POLICE OUTPOST -- CONTINUOUS 42

VISHNU, OM and the BOY step in warily. The police stationis sparse and decrepit; the kind that time has forgotten.

Through the open door they see the cops hang the PEASANTby his feet upside down. His plea for mercy is ignored.

The CHIEF takes out a long iron rod from the bookshelf. He strokes it lovingly and then spots VISHNU staring.

The CHIEF prods him with the rod, pushing him away.

CHIEFThis... is just the trailer...you guys will be the main feature.

The CHIEF goes into the room. The iron rod hits thePEASANT'S flesh. The PEASANT'S screams shatter the calm. He pleads forgiveness. But the CHIEF does not stop.

VISHNU and the BOY are rooted to the spot, struck byterror.

43 INT. POLICE OUTPOST -- LATER 43

The CHIEF emerges from the room. His clothes smatteredin blood. He stares at the three through his glazed eyes.

CHIEFGot any blue films?

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OM(in a burst ofdesperation)

Yes, yes. Plenty of them... err, in the back.

The CHIEF undresses in front of them. Throwing the bloodstained uniform towards the CONSTABLE.

CHIEFBurn them.

He changes into a new uniform and steps out in the sunlike a man on vacation. He puts on his Ray Bans and soaksin the view.

The BOY nudges VISHNU- it's the same pair he is wearing. VISHNU takes off his Ray Bans discretely.

Through his Ray Bans the CHIEF'S focus falls on the truck-looking forlorn in the waste land.

CHIEF (CONT'D)CONSTABLE. Burn the drugs wefound in that truck.

(pause)Tell the villagers we're showinga film tonight.

He pauses and looks at them with a smug smile.

CHIEF (CONT'D)And if it's boring, lock them up. And sell the truck. It'll fetcha good price.

44 OUTSIDE THE TRUCK 44

It's wide open for miles and yet the three are trapped.

VISHNU looks around helplessly and suddenly leaps intothe truck making a last ditch attempt to escape.

In a flash OM yanks VISHNU out by his trouser leg.

VISHNU falls to the ground writhing in pain.

OMYou crazy? You want us killed? Get on your feet. Don't be stupid.

VISHNU gets up brushing himself, hurt and angry.

VISHNUIt's not going to work.

OMDo you have a plan?

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VISHNUI've lost a day. An entire day.

OMWhere are you going?

VISHNU doesn't respond.

OM (CONT'D)Fine. Spend your life here. It's your truck. We can walkaway. You're stuck.

(to the Boy)C'mon let's go.

They start walking. VISHNU relents and yells out.

VISHNUSamudra-bad.

OMNever heard of it.

VISHNUThe city by the sea.

OM stops in his tracks and starts laughing. VISHNU isthrown by this response.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Do you know the way?

OM continues to laugh. The BOY cuts their game.

BOYStop. Let's get this to work.

VISHNU stares at the truck thrown by OM'S remark andsuddenly unsure of where he's going.

45 INSIDE THE TRUCK 45

OM chokes with the dust and the musty air.

OMThe two of you, clean up thismess.

The BOY lifts the covers off the old projectors. Theyare old and monstrous but still have a shine.

OM tries to make sense of the switches and panels.

VISHNU stares at him skeptically.

OM (CONT'D)You think I can't do it?

He spots the engravings marking the path of the film.

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OM (CONT'D)Ah, got it. It goes from here...through this.... past that... andfinally out here.

(pause)Now I remember. It's coming backto me.

VISHNUYou've done this before?

OM ignores him. His brow furrowed in worry.

VISHNU sighs in resignation and turns away. He marks 6vertical lines |||||| on the map behind him. Crossingout one as a reminder of the days left.

OM5 days? Not on this road.

(pause)What's with this city by the seaanyway?

VISHNU points to the projector and gives him a "get onwith your job" look. OM stands stubborn.

OM (CONT'D)A film show?

VISHNUI'm helping a friend.

OM stops and looks VISHNU in the eye.

OMReally?

VISHNU averts his gaze.

OM (CONT'D)Turn the truck around. Face thisend to the wall. Driver.

46 OUTSIDE 46

VISHNU notices village folk trickle in. Elders on foot,younger ones on bicycles, women and children in groups.

VISHNU turns the truck. They watch him.

The sun is setting.

47 INSIDE 47

OM is flicking every switch trying to figure them out.VISHNU looks at his watch.

OMSTOP THAT. I'm trying to remember.

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And suddenly it strikes OM. He yells out.

OM (CONT'D)We need one more thing.

BOYWhat?

OM(leaning out)

Power.

VISHNU slumps to the ground. And from the floorboardnotices an overhead electric line. He points to it.

BOYSteal?

OM(chuckling)

We are in a police station. (pause)

What do you think the cops do? Maintain law and order? Peaceand justice?

48 INT. POLICE OUTPOST -- CONTINUOUS 48

The CONSTABLE and a few men carry the bundles of driedmarijuana grass outside.

49 EXT. HIGH TENSION ELECTRIC LINE -- CONTINUOUS 49

The BOY stands beneath lassoing a cable to snare the livewires above.

The local kids join him.

ONE... TWO... THREE... Finally, they succeed.

OM(from afar)

Watch out. It's live. 440 volts!

The BOY unwinds the rest of the bundle to the plugs atthe side of the truck.

Om thrusts one of the live cables to VISHNU. He jumpsback- scared. OM laughs and then hands him the safe side,showing him where to hold the live cable.

OM winds a cable around the plug. VISHNU follows.

OM pulls the old rusted lever. There's a loud crack, thethree step back alarmed at the sound. The needle is stuck. They stare in anticipation. And slowly, it flutters andrises hesitantly.

OM smiles triumphantly. VISHNU furrowed brow eases up. He smiles for the first time.

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50 INSIDE THE TRUCK 50

The BOY sees the CONSTABLE selling bundles of marijuanaand prodding the audience for money.

BOY(mutters)

Thieves. Show them the worstmovie you've got.

OMThat's foolish.

VISHNU and the BOY are surprised by OM'S comment.

OM (CONT'D)Remember Shehrezade? Forget it. What would the two of you know.

(pause)Tell the best story you can. That's the key to our freedom.

51 OUTSIDE 51

The cops light a bonfire of the illicit grass. The CHIEFemerges wearing jeans and a T shirt- strikingly similarto VISHNU'S clothes.

The crowds wait patiently for the movie to begin.

52 INSIDE 52

OM throws the switch.

The projector sparks and starts with a thunderous sound. But the film gets caught inside and chewed up.

The three stare at the frayed pieces of film grinding inthe gears of the projector. It's clearly not OM'S moment.

53 OUTSIDE 53

The CHIEF'S getting restless.

54 INSIDE 54

He looks at the frayed film and the GRINDING gears. Shaking his head, muttering, desperate to find a solution. The CRUNCH of the gears grows LOUDER.

Finally...

OMOil? Anyone got any oil?

VISHNU feigns ignorance and shakes his head. The BOY ison all fours searching every nook of the truck. He spotsthe box at the back.

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BOYWhat's this?

VISHNU ignores the BOY.

The BOY pulls out a bottle. It's broken from the bottom. He touches the dark green liquid and smells it.

BOY (CONT'D)Yuck, awful.

OMWhat is it? Hurry up.

The BOY hands him the bottle. OM looks at it and readsthe label slowly and then bursts out laughing.

OM (CONT'D)Hair Oil...

VISHNUThat won't work.

OM ignores him and pours it generously over the gears andsprockets. OM puts his hand out for another bottle.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Hey... hey... it's...

OMWhat? You want to spend the restof your life with the cops?

The second bottle of oil vanishes into the projector. VISHNU stares at it unsure if he should own up.

OM presses the switch and the projector begins again. The reel moves. This time smoothly. He smiles in relief.

55 OUTSIDE 55

Light falls on the wall and an image slowly appears.

A hush falls amongst the people gathered.

They squat on the earth in small circles; each groupsharing a hash pipe- men and women alike, mesmerized bythe images.

ON SCREEN: Cops chase bandits from a popular western.

CHIEFThat's it. Burn those bastards.

56 INSIDE THE TRUCK 56

VISHNU has his back to the screen. In the dim light he'strying to plot a shorter route.

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57 OUTSIDE 57

OM joins the cops.

They stoke the fire with more marijuana.

OM pulls out his collection of hash pipes. The CHIEFinspects them with the enthusiasm of a connoisseur.

The CHIEF takes a drag from OM'S hash pipe and barks.

CHIEFYou there. City Boy, COME HERE.

The ferocity startles VISHNU. He hurries over.

CHIEF (CONT'D)Here, try this.

He hands him OM'S hash pipe. VISHNU declines.

CHIEF (CONT'D)Smoke. It's an order!

He is red eyed and stoned but hasn't lost his viciousness.VISHNU takes a tentative drag. He hands the pipe backbut the CHIEF stops him with his rod.

VISHNU takes another drag. The marijuana hits him.

OMOk, enough.

VISHNU refuses. And takes another and another and another.

CHIEFHey boy, why don't you show amovie every night? Stay here fora week. Be my guests...

VISHNU chokes. OM begins to giggle.

OMChief, you burn more of this we'llshow a movie every night. Deal?

CHIEFWe keep the cash you get yourgrass.

(pause)Now that's a deal.

(to Vishnu)Is that a deal?

VISHNU nods his head maniacally- more out of fear. TheCHIEF laughs out loud enjoying his power.

CHIEF (CONT'D)(to OM)

How did you get it to work?

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57 CONTINUED: 57

OM smiles, now out of relief.

OMTold you I could.

VISHNU(swaying by thecampfire)

It was hair oil... hair oil...

CHIEFWhat?

The words of ATMA echo almost unconsciously through thehaze of hash. VISHNU sinks to the ground.

VISHNUHair Oil... hair oil... it's cool. No it's cooling. Gives youvirility. Aphrodisiac,aphrodisiac, it's an aphrodisiac...

The CHIEF stares at VISHNU, mumbling in his incoherentstupor. His curiosity is piqued.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Aphrodisiac... aphrodisiac...aphrodisiac...

The CHIEF gets up and walks to the truck.

58 INSIDE THE TRUCK 58

He rummages in the back desperately searching for oil.

He finds the box and holds up a bottle in the lightspilling from the projector. His smile widening likehe's found gold. He sniffs the oil, rubs some in hishair, then takes a deep breath and pours a generous amountinto his trousers.

59 BY THE FIRE 59

OM and VISHNU lie stoned and silent by the fire. No onenotices the BOY run into the Police Outpost.

60 OUTSIDE 60

The CHIEF walks up to VISHNU. A strange look on his face.

CHIEFYou're right. It works, it works!

He grabs his crotch and runs around the fire yelling.

CHIEF (CONT'D)Where are the women?

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OMThat's more dangerous than Veeruthe Waterlord.

CHIEFWhere are the women? Where arethe women?

The CHIEF is on a rampage. He makes a desperate grab forthe women- young or old, he doesn't care.

Stoned and faltering he misses.

There's fear and panic amongst the audience.

Within moments they disappear in the darkness.

The CHIEF is left standing alone, screaming.

The reel runs out and the film keeps flapping. The lightshines on the wall. No one notices. The audience hasescaped. The cops are stoned.

The CHIEF collapses to the ground, stoned and stillclutching his crotch. The CONSTABLE besides him- snoring.

61 LATER BY THE FIRE 61

The BOY deftly takes the money from the CONSTABLE'S pocket. The CONSTABLE stirs and raises his hand. The BOY holdsit firmly and guides it back in place. The CONSTABLEsmiles contentedly and turns over.

VISHNU stares at this- a glazed look in his eyes.

VISHNUThief.

BOY(whispering)

It's our money...(pause)

Let's run.

VISHNU stares at him blankly. The BOY shakes VISHNU'Sface- no sign of life. He slaps him across the face. VISHNU wakes with a start.

BOY (CONT'D)(whispering urgently)

Wake up you junkie. Don't youwant to leave?

The BOY points to OM- lying on the ground.

VISHNUI'm not touching him.

BOYHe saved you.

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VISHNUHe smells.

The BOY ignores VISHNU. He struggles to lift OM'S body. VISHNU stares at him glass eyed- unmoved.

The BOY is lost under OM'S huge body. He drags OM to thetruck and pushes him into the rear.

62 INSIDE 62

VISHNU fumbles and starts the truck. The loud roarshatters the night calm. The stoned cops don't react. He gingerly slips into gear. The truck moves.

The electric cable snaps and trails behind them.

63 EXT. ROAD -- LATER 63

It's dark. VISHNU can barely see the road or keep hiseyes open.

He pulls the truck over. Gets out and climbs into thebunk behind the drivers seat and falls asleep.

FADE OUT:

64 EXT. ROADSIDE -- DAWN 64

OM and the BOY are chowing through the boxes of food.

It's a mess. Food crumbs, wrapping, bottles of water.But they are enjoying themselves. OM strokes his stomachand smiles contentedly.

65 INT. TRUCK -- DAWN 65

VISHNU wakes with a start. His head is reeling. He slumpsback against the truck. In the broken mirror he seeshimself; disheveled, dirty and looking totally worn out.

He holds his head in his hands, in regret.

He looks at the marks on the headboard |||||| and scratchesout the third one.

It's DAY 3

66 OUTSIDE 66

He steps out and forces a smile. Happy to be free fromthe cops.

BUT... The morning calm is shattered by a loud scream. VISHNU stares at the destruction wreaked by the two.

OM burps loudly in contentment.

VISHNU'S world has come apart. He sees OM stroking hisstomach, the BOY looking in the bushes and the remains offood and water on the ground.

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66 CONTINUED: 66

He spots two remaining bottles of water and makes a grabfor them. And then stands apart from them- clutching hisbottles of water close to his chest.

He slowly steps back from this world, gets in to the truckand drives off.

The BOY chases the truck. But it's too late.

67 EXT. ROAD -- LATER 67

A row of women carrying pitchers of water on their headswalk in a long single file cutting across the road.

VISHNU slows his truck waiting for them to pass. Theline is endless, going all the way to the horizon. Hestares at them fascinated.

The women cross, humming a song-like chant amongstthemselves. It's simple and intense and fills the air. VISHNU strains to hear the words.

His eye catches a striking YOUNG WOMAN in the line. Fora moment they lock their gaze. She smiles at him. Heresponds. But soon loses her in the crowd.

Absentmindedly he takes a swig of water from his bottle. And then feeling guilty hides it from view.

The women disappear into the distance. The chant hangsin the air.

68 INSIDE THE TRUCK 68

VISHNU releases the clutch. The truck leaps forward and the engine dies.

VISHNU curses.

He tries coaxing it alive. But the engine is cold anddead. He looks around helplessly. There's no one insight.

69 ON THE ROAD 69

He gets out of the truck, bangs the bonnet and kicks thetires in frustration.

There's no signal on his cell phone either. He gives upand sits on the footboard of the truck. And then jumpsup remembering the oil which was dripping.

70 INSIDE THE TRUCK 70

VISHNU'S stomach rumbles. He rummages in the truck forsome food. There's nothing. In desperation he drinksthe entire bottle of water and tosses it away on the road.

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71 LATER 71

He clutches his stomach and doubles up in a cramp. Herushes behind a clump of wild grass in the distance.

He looks around and then drops his pants and squats onthe earth in quiet contentment; a look of relief on hisface.

72 LATER 72

He hears footsteps in the distance and the murmur ofconversation. He parts the tall grass to look through.

It's OM and the BOY. Excited he yells out. And thenremembers he has to wipe himself.

He looks around and in desperation grabs a large dry leaf.

OM and the BOY walk past. VISHNU yells again. He pullsup his trousers and runs after them.

VISHNUHey, hey. Help me.

They ignore him.

VISHNU walks alongside them.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Old man, please. Just start thistruck.

OM ignores him. VISHNU walks in front of him trying toblock his path. OM walks past him.

VISHNU (CONT'D)OK. You win. Anything you want.

(pause)Just start this truck.

OMAnything?

VISHNUYes. Food, water, money...anything.

(pause)Deal?

OM(smiling)

You're learning quick. I don'ttrust you.

VISHNUOK. I won't abandon you.

VISHNU implores.

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72 CONTINUED: 72

VISHNU (CONT'D)Both of you. Please.

OM stops. He needs a free ride too.

OMHere's the deal. You drop me tothe fair.

(pause)Not midway, not on-the-way, notnear-by. Right at the door step.

73 ON THE ROAD 73

OM points to a small cut in the road. It leads to a vastopen desert-like terrain.

VISHNUBut, there's no road.

OMThe fair... and the shortest wayto your destination.

VISHNUBut it's not on the map.

OMStop arguing. Don't challengeeverything.

(pause)What's the point of those maps. They don't tell you anything aboutthe real world.

VISHNU looks at the two paths facing him; the road andthe uncharted terrain. He turns to OM and the BOY. Andrealises once again he has only one choice.

He turns the truck off the road.

74 INT. TRUCK -- LATER 74

The landscape takes a dramatic turn. The earth turns toa copper color. VISHNU sucks his breath in awe. He'snever seen anything like this.

75 EXT. DIRTY TRACK -- LATER 75

The truck drives along a row of men and women carryingpots walking in single file.

It's never ending like what he's seen earlier.

They are humming the same song.

VISHNU slows down for a closer look.

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OMWater. They're searching forwater. They'll walk for days tofind it and then days to get back.

76 EXT. OUTBACK -- LATER 76

They drive on in silence.

77 INSIDE 77

The three are covered in white dust and unrecognizable. VISHNU spits on his Ray Bans and wipes the dust off.

Suddenly the BOY screams. Shattering the peace inside.

BOYWATCH OUT. STOOOOOOOOP.

VISHNU'S hits the brakes in a reflex action.

The BOY is out of the cab in a flash.

VISHNULittle shit. Did this earlier aswell. And the truck broke down.

OM looks out and sees the BOY darting behind the scrubslooking for something. VISHNU is about to leave, whenthe BOY rushes back and hops on.

A guilty expression writ all over his face.

BOYUpset stomach...

VISHNUThat was the fastest upset stomachin the world.

VISHNU stares at the BOY. He avoids his gaze.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Liar.

BOYLiar?

VISHNULiar. Yes Liar.

(pause)And I don't trust you. From thetime you came on my truck.

OMIs this your truck? You nevertold me so?

VISHNUNo, it isn't. But I told you...

(MORE)(CONTINUED)

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VISHNU (CONT'D)(pause)

And anyway this has nothing to dowith you.

There's silence in the truck. But for a moment.

VISHNU'S eye's falls on his cell phone. The signal showsup. VISHNU whoops in joy. He can't believe his eyes. He jumps out of the cab. The signal is gone.

He moves closer to the cab and it appears again.

Nursing his cell phone gingerly and moving it around likesome sensor he locates a spot where the signal is stable.

And he dials out.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Sis, it's me! Can you hear me?

VISHNU is yelling at the top of his voice. Any louderand he wouldn't need a phone.

VISHNU (CONT'D)I'm fine. Food's perfect.

OFF SCREEN- there's a scuffle for the phone.

VISHNU grins and bears.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Hi, Ma! Yes. The road's fine. Yes. Constant speed. No, no. No problems. Works perfectly.

(pause)I should get there in a few days. Yes. Short cut.

(pause)Sold two bottles... no four. Ican do it dad.

(pause)Love you too, Ma.

VISHNU hangs up, relieved. OM and the BOY stare at him. VISHNU smiles but they turn away. The phone call has setthem worlds apart.

The BOY has the last word.

BOY(whispers)

Liar.

78 EXT. OUTBACK -- DAY 78

The red earth reflects a harsh light on their face. Theheat rises.

VISHNU has his eyes peeled.

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VISHNUWhere's the fair?

OMIf you keep looking like thatyou'll never find it.

VISHNUWe're going nowhere...

OMI know it... when we get thereI'll feel it. It's open... wide...we can show a movie...

VISHNUOh no. We aren't showing anymore movies. Not after last night.

OMWell, we won't get water or food...we'll die.

(pause)Show the movie, we can make somemoney too.

VISHNU looks at OM, helpless. OM starts laughing. He'strapped VISHNU and is enjoying every minute.

OM (CONT'D)Now just drive on and stop arguing.

79 INSIDE THE TRUCK 79

The three are hungry and parched. Their faces burnt red. The heat has sapped their energy.

OM is hallucinating. He keeps talking in a daze.

OMI know the way... just keepdriving. Straight.

VISHNUOld man... we're lost. You haveno idea...

OMStraight... straight... Don'tveer off. Keep going straight.

80 EXT. TRUCK -- LATER 80

The engine hisses. VISHNU gets off and opens the bonnet. It's a mass of burning metal. He takes the last bottleof water from beneath the seat.

He holds the bottle above the radiator and pauses.

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81 BEHIND THE BONNET 81

He crouches and steals a sip of water for himself.

But the BOY is there in a trice. He catches his wristand guides it back to the radiator.

VISHNU looks at the BOY, OM and the truck. Covered inwhite they are all alike.

He rations the water into the radiator. The trucks hisses,satiated by the few drops.

He gives the BOY one sip. There's one left.

It's VISHNU or OM. He looks at him; expressionless andinanimate in the heat. And then holds it above his ownmouth and tips all the water in.

There's nothing left.

OMBastard.

He pushes VISHNU aside. Opens the radiator and sucks thewater from it. Satiated he stands smug and wipes thewater across his dried face. And then rubs some acrossthe BOY'S face.

VISHNU turns away in disgust.

OM (CONT'D)(mutters)

You're heartless...

82 LATER 82

OM lights up a hash pipe and takes a deep drag.

The BOY drums on the seat and begins to sing trying toease the tension. He's off-key. OM hoots like an animalin pain. VISHNU laughs. The BOY shuts up, hurt.

VISHNU drives slow and in this heat an object appears inthe distance. The BOY sits up. OM pushes him back.

OMIt's the heat. You're seeingthings.

And as they approach the dark object it disappears.

83 SUDDENLY 83

VISHNU spots another figure in the distance. It's hazyand indistinguishable.

OMYour eyes... playing tricks...

(MORE)

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OM (CONT'D)(pause)

You're chasing shadows...straight... we'll miss the fair...

BOY(licking his drylips)

Water... water...

But VISHNU keeps staring and slowly turns the truck andbegins driving towards the figure.

It's a WOMAN with a leather water pouch strapped aroundher body. It's not swollen with water but flat lifelessand empty.

BOY (CONT'D)(whispering)

She's searching for water...

The truck draws closer like a predator.

The WOMAN picks up a nervous pace.

VISHNU stops the truck and leans out. His voice dry andhoarse.

VISHNUDo you have some water?

The WOMAN ignores him and continues to walk briskly. There's a sense of fear in her gait.

VISHNU revs up the truck and begins to follow her.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Hey lady, we need some water. Where are you going?

(pause)STOP. We're lost...

The WOMAN slows down and turns to look at them.

In her late 30's her face is covered with dust, her mouthparched and dry. But through all this her tall build andher lean figure are unmistakable.

VISHNU is struck by the piercing gaze of her eyes.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Some water? Please?

The WOMAN surveys the truck, sussing out the inside; twomen and a BOY. Their faces covered in chalk, lips parchedand eyes bloodshot red.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Please...

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The WOMAN pulls out a small leather pouch hidden by herwaist.

VISHNU jumps out and peels a few notes. BUT the WOMANsidesteps him and goes straight to OM and gives him twosips.

He laughs. Smug at his little victory over VISHNU.

And then she pours a sip each into their open mouths.

They look up begging for more. The WOMAN shakes her head.

VISHNU (CONT'D)(whispering hoarsely)

Just one more sip. Please!

The WOMAN ignores him.

VISHNU (CONT'D)You gave the old man two.

WOMAN(firmly)

Learn to live with less.

She ties the pouch shut. A few drops of water remain onthe neck. She moistens her lips with them and wipes hereyes. The skin around her eyes glows. VISHNU can't stopstaring at her.

VISHNUCan you help us find some water?

(pause)Is there a shop nearby?

The WOMAN laughs. OM smirks.

VISHNU (CONT'D)A well?

OMYou're embarrassing.

VISHNUGive me the rest. I'll pay...

The WOMAN refuses his offer.

VISHNU makes a desperate lunge for her leather pouch. OMyanks him back.

OMIdiot. You'll lose whatever littlewe have.

VISHNU slinks back embarrassed. He mumbles an apology. There's an awkward silence and then he makes small talkin reparation.

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VISHNUAre you lost too?

WOMANI'm looking for water.

VISHNUWhich direction are you going in?

The WOMAN does not respond.

OM (O.S.)(wryly)

Wherever she can find water. Didn't you hear her?

VISHNU scans the horizon. It's stark, flat and barren asfar as the eye can see. There's no sign of water.

VISHNUGet in the back. We'll driveyou...

VISHNU opens the rear. The BOY sidles up to VISHNU andtugs at his shirt.

BOY(whispering)

How can you trust her? What ifshe steals something?

VISHNUAnd what are we carrying? Gold?

BOY(whispering)

She's a gypsy... from somewandering tribe.

VISHNUWhere would she escape here?

BOYWhy can't she sit in front.

(pause)With us.

OM (O.S.)Then he won't be able to keep hiseyes on the road.

BOYDon't trust strangers.

VISHNUWhat about you?

The BOY ignores him. He snatches the keys from VISHNU'Shands and locks the rear. VISHNU points to the front. The WOMAN gets in and sits on the bunk with the BOY.

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OM(wryly)

The last thing we wanted was aWoman.

(turning to Vishnu)But I can see that you have aheart... and it's between yourlegs

He laughs at his lewd remark but in the heat is ignored.

84 EXT. OUTBACK -- LATER 84

VISHNU drives slowly. Through the broken mirror he catchesa glimpse of the WOMAN. Her eyes are peeled to the landlooking for signs of water.

VISHNUWhere do you live?

The WOMAN points to the right. Her answers monosyllabic.

VISHNU (CONT'D)How far?

WOMANThree days...

VISHNUThree days? You've been walkingfor three days?

The WOMAN nods.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Water?

She shakes her head. Her stoic silence says it all.

VISHNU shifts in his seat awkwardly. Struck by the gravityof her life.

WOMANWhere are you going?

VISHNUI'm dropping them to the fair.

WOMANWhich fair?

VISHNU looks at OM suspiciously.

OMWhat?

WOMANWhere is the fair?

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VISHNUAre we lost?

OMNo. We're going to the fair,people will come to see themovie... we'll get water... food.

(pause)Simple.

OM begins humming and singing off-key. VISHNU and the BOYexchange a glance, convinced that the heat has got to OM. VISHNU speaks in a measured voice.

VISHNUWe're lost. You said this wouldbe a short cut.

(to the Woman)The two of them ate all my food. He promised he'd show me a shortcut so I can get back on the road.

BOYYou agreed to show a movie.

VISHNUI didn't.

BOYYou did. Who agreed last night.

OM mimics VISHNU singing "aphrodisiac" but it falls flat.

There's an awkward silence. It's clear the men are vyingfor the WOMAN'S attention.

OMOK. City boy here is selling atruck which shows movies.

(pause)And he knows nothing about it. Hey wait a minute, we don't knowwho are you? What's your story?

WOMAN(interrupting)

I've never seen a movie.

BOYNEVER?

The WOMAN nods. Suddenly all is silent.

VISHNUAll your life?

WOMAN(surprised)

Yes.

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VISHNUWow. I don't think I've evermet...

OMAh my dear Girl, you don't knowwhat you're missing.

(pause)The romance, the adventure, theescape. The escape. When I washis age...

OM points to the BOY.

OM (CONT'D)...I used to wait for this truckto come. We could go in for free. Sit all day long... No tickets. And just forget about everything...

WOMANThere are things I'd like to forgettoo.

VISHNUYes, me too.

OMWhat do you want to forget? What'swrong with your life?

VISHNU ignores OM. His eyes are on the WOMAN and he'sexcited and animated all over again.

VISHNUWe've got to show you a movie.

(turning to OM)What do you think? Let's showher a movie?

OM(cutting him)

Eyes on the road driver... unlessyou want us all killed.

VISHNUOne movie! Won't kill anyone.

OMNO. You drop me off, get yourfood and water and go deliver thetruck.

(pause)Isn't that what you want?

OM'S sharp retort silences VISHNU. But he steps on thegas. The truck trundles ahead purposefully.

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85 EXT. OPEN FIELD -- EVENING 85

The BOY lights a small fire. They huddle around it.

VISHNU(to OM)

Where's your hash pipe?

OM'S raises his eyebrows, and smiles at VISHNU, surprisedat the turn of character.

OMNothing left.

The BOY pulls out some dried grass from the floorboardsof the truck and dangles it in front of OM teasing him.

OM lunges out for it but the BOY darts away. OM gets upand puts up a weak chase and finally gives up breathless.

OM (CONT'D)My knees. Few years earlier andI would have got you.

(pause)Where did you get this?

BOY(smiling)

Emergency stock. To bribe you. In case you decided to leave

VISHNUYou little shit. You stole it.

OMFrom the cops!

The BOY mimics the CHIEF searching for the missing grass.VISHNU, OM and the BOY have the last laugh.

OM prepares his hash pipe with care and precision.

OM (CONT'D)But don't worry, I'm not leavingso easily.

They smoke in silence.

WOMANKeep the fires low.

BOYWhy?

WOMANSomeone might see us?

VISHNUAre you crazy? In this wilderness.

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WOMANThe Waterlord... his men.

BOYDo you know where he lives?

The WOMAN shakes her head.

VISHNU looks around. Suddenly this world seems strangeand unfamiliar. OM is quick to sense this.

OMWhat? City boy never seen a banditbefore.

VISHNUHave you?

OMThey're like the cops. Show thema movie...

The WOMAN shakes her head and speaks in a hushed tone.

WOMANNot this one.

(pause)He killed my husband.

OM suddenly lowers his voice, his tone becoming sombre.

OMI'm sorry... when?

WOMANTwo years ago. They caught himbreaking into a well.

OMAny children?

The WOMAN shakes her head.

WOMANHis men travel by night searchingfor water.

VISHNUAt night?

WOMAN(nodding)

It's too hot during the day.

VISHNU stares at her like he's never heard this before. There's a moments silence. It's eerie and chilling.

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86 EXT. OUTBACK -- LATER 86

VISHNU holds up a strip of film for the WOMAN. She getscloser to him to see. But it's getting dark.

VISHNU switches on the headlight. The filmstrip glows. The WOMAN stares wide eyed as VISHNU shows her the images.

The BOY joins in not wanting to be left out.

And from inside OM too.

OMShut the headlight stupid. Thebattery will run down.

VISHNU moves the strip up and down trying to "show" her afilm. The BOY starts a rhythm on the bonnet.

The WOMAN begins to sing and slowly moves to the beat. Her voice is hypnotizing. In the barren land, lit by theheadlight the three males are captivated as they watchher dance to her song.

OM joins in and dances with her. Even at this old age hemoves with a grace and charm. The WOMAN responds.

VISHNU watches her.

The WOMAN'S body glows in the headlight. In the parchedland she is a sight; simple, sensuous and arousing.

FADE OUT:

87 EXT. OUTBACK -- MORNING 87

The white chalk-like earth reflects a harsh and brightlight on their face. The heat rises.

OM points to a spot in the open expanse. They get off.

There are no signs of life.

VISHNUHere?

BOYYou're sure?

VISHNUIf this is a joke...

WOMANA fair here? I've never seenone.

OM has second thoughts.

OMWell, it was somewhere here...

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VISHNUWhen?

OMLast year.

All of a sudden the BOY yells loudly.

BOYANYONE OUT THERE?

And then looks around smiling foolishly.

The WOMAN offers them some water. This time it's two foreach one of them. As the last drop falls they stare atone another in silence.

VISHNUOld man, there's nothing left. We'll die.

OMShut up. Let's set up the cinema. People will come. We'll makemoney. Get food and water.

BOYAnd what if no one comes?

VISHNU(grim)

Just the marijuana?

They stare at one another and then burst out laughing.

88 EXT. OUTBACK -- LATER 88

VISHNU, OM, the BOY and the WOMAN build a cinema.

They are an odd lot but slowly come together as the cinematakes life.

The BOY empties the truck.

He tosses out coils of thick rope, Petromax lanterns, FlameTorches, a can of kerosene, electric blue loudspeakers,bed sheets, large cutouts of film stars,...

The WOMAN laughs. VISHNU smiles and moves closer to her. Her presence has brought a lightness to the group.

OM plants the torches into four corners of the earth.

The BOY hooks the posters and cutouts around the truck.

VISHNU and the WOMAN stretch the bedsheet across thecracked earth. He makes every attempt to get closer toher.

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VISHNU and the BOY climb up the two trees. The WOMANcounts to a three.

They raise the sheet up.

It rises slowly into sky and forms a huge screen.

The four stare at it mesmerized by the sight.

Slowly a traveling cinema comes alive.

They gather around the torch as OM lights them.

VISHNU sees the WOMAN'S face by the golden flames. Hecan't take his eyes off her.

OM catches the BOY looking at them, feeling left out.

OMIt'll happen to you as well. Someday. Not in my lifetimethough.

The flaming torches mark the four corners of this open-air cinema.

It’s a surreal sight. A large screen fluttering, thefour burning torches, the solitary truck with a projectorand some oversized cutouts.

Tired after the long days events the four collapse by theside of the truck. Parched, hungry and covered in dust.

FADE OUT:

89 LATER 89

VISHNU opens his eyes. His ears pick up a faint creakingsound in the distance.

His eyes scan the horizon.

The creaking grows louder and louder and LOUDER.

Vishnu shakes OM and the WOMAN. There's no one in sight.

And then, VISHNU spots an elderly MAN approach them. He's carrying a large bamboo pole across his shoulder. Balancing two large tins on either side.

He steps up his pace. The creaking increases in rhythm.

The MAN drops his heavy load by the truck. VISHNU staresat the tins. They are filled with water. He is theWATERBEARER- in his 70's, his face wrinkled by time.

WATERBEARERWhat took you so long?

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The four attack the water, speechless. And collapse onthe ground satiated.

The WATERBEARER looks inside the truck.

WATERBEARER (CONT'D)Where's OPJ? Is he dead?

Vishnu shakes his head.

WATERBEARER (CONT'D)He owes me money.

(pause)I knew him as a kid.

The WATERBEARER fills a jerry can for them and then almostout of habit goes and sits in front of the screen.

VISHNU stares at the lone man in this expanse, staring atthe blank bed sheet.

Faint strains of music in the distance catch VISHNU'Sattention. He preens his eyes. In the horizon a smallband of travelling musicians appear.

The BOY tugs at VISHNU and points the other way.

There's a slow trickle of people coming closer to them.

Children in groups, senior citizens being carried onshoulders, Families of four and six on bicycles, peopleof all ages, clothes and styles which span severalgenerations.

A ferris wheel is being pieced together. Smaller ridesand merry go rounds. Popcorn. Candy. Fast Food eateries. Camel Carts, Herds of Sheep, Goat, Cattle.

From out of nowhere a mass of humanity slowly approachesthe travelling cinema.

VISHNU stares as the crowds swell to a few thousands.

90 EXT. OUTBACK -- CONTINUOUS 90

VISHNU spots OM hugging and embracing old friends; theflame thrower, the acrobat and his daughters, the toyseller, the PHOTOGRAPHER.

He's pointing towards the truck and bragging about hisachievements.

The barren outback is throbbing with life.

OM calls them to the PHOTOGRAPHER'S stall.

VISHNU, OM, the BOY and the WOMAN pose in front of theTaj Mahal wearing dark glasses and looking like film stars.

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VISHNU(to the photographer)

When can I get it?

PHOTOGRAPHER(smiling)

Instant delivery. 3 weeks fromnow. At the next fair.

BOYDon't you have a digital?

VISHNUWait.

He pulls out his cell phone gives it to the PHOTOGRAPHER. He gives it a look over.

PHOTOGRAPHER(dismissively)

Tiny image. Not sharp.

BOYIt's all on this now.

Makes a gesture with his fingers - such a small size.

But the three don't care. They huddle around it.

91 EXT. OUTBACK -- LATER 91

The crowd streams in sitting all around the screen. Drawnto it like a magnet. Waiting patiently.

The WOMAN and the BOY frantically collect money.

BOYI'll cover this side. You go tothe other.

(pause)Remember, it's 10 bucks for adults. Children go free.

92 INT. TRUCK -- LATER 92

OM'S finger hovers above the huge switch. He pauses.

OMWhere's my lucky charm?

VISHNU crawls into the back and pulls out the green bottleof hair oil. OM kisses the bottle and pours it generouslyinto the gears and sprockets of the projector.

The huge power switch comes down with a loud clang.

The old projector shudders and comes to life. OM kissesit on it's flank and then wipes the dust off his lips indisgust.

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93 OUTSIDE 93

The image falls on the screen. And even though it'sblurred at first there's a hush amongst the crowds.

The BOY wades his way through the crowd clutching his t-shirt holding the coins and cash.

94 INSIDE THE TRUCK 94

The roll of film runs out. There's a loud cry from thecrowd. VISHNU looks at OM in anticipation.

OM is at a loss.

VISHNU is quick on his feet. He tosses a small bit offilm to OM who catches it with a flourish and threads it.

CLANG. The projector starts and VISHNU is throwing morebits to OM.

They are like D.J's. Tossing bits of film into theprojector. Playing a mash-up of films.

OUTSIDE

The audience is mesmerized.

ON SCREEN

It's not just one movie but samples from many movies. Murders, chases, gunfights, emotional showdowns.

BY THE FOOD STALLS

The BOY is beaming. He's filling a large sack with simplesnack food, local cola, toys and household objects.

INSIDE

The WOMAN is staring at the images on the screen in ahypnotic trance.

The film D.J.'s are busy at work. There's a race to threadthe projectors and keep the movie going.

The BOY counts the money. There's a lot of it.

OM(to Vishnu)

Still want to sell the truck?

But VISHNU doesn't respond. He can't take his eyes offthe WOMAN. He's riveted by her stoic beauty.

95 DARKNESS FALLS 95

And the mash-up keeps running. The stream of peoplecontinues, like an endless wave.

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96 LATER 96

OM lights his hash pipe and hands it to the WOMAN. Shetakes a drag and passes it to Vishnu. He stares at hermesmerized by the glow on her face from the embers. Thehash hitting him.

The BOY is dividing the money in four bundles.

The WOMAN notices the bottles of oil lying on the side. She picks one up and smells it.

WOMANMmmm... Parijat leaves. Lovely.

VISHNU is taken aback.

VISHNUErr... yes... shoe-flower anderr... herbal I think.

He looks around furtively feeling he's been exposed. Sheoffers it to OM. OM shakes his head. They all look clue-less. OM pats the projector.

OMFor the projector. Not my head.

WOMAN(to Vishnu)

And you?

VISHNU recoils.

WOMAN (CONT'D)C'mon try some. It's nice.

VISHNUNo.

The WOMAN pours some onto her palm. VISHNU sees the oildrop and waits for the sound. He stares as she slowlyrubs it into her hair.

OMGo easy. The projectors need itmore than your hair.

She points to the other boxes in a corner.

BOYThere's plenty more.

OMStrange truck. Traveling cinema,hair oil...

VISHNUAn army deserter? A terrorist?

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OM averts his look. There's an awkward moment.

WOMANA runaway Boy...

The WOMAN looks at the BOY emptying his shopping bags.

WOMAN (CONT'D)Is this stolen? Are you thieves?

OM(laughing)

Yes! It's time to tell the truth.

VISHNU is too earnest.

VISHNUNo, no.

OMNo? I was convinced you had stolenit. Were running away.

VISHNUI'm not a thief. It's my father's.

OMThis cinema?

VISHNUNo.

WOMANThen it is stolen.

VISHNUThe hair oil.

OMWhat?

VISHNUWe... my father makes hair oil.

OM starts laughing.

OMWe've been traveling with a hairoil salesman!

WOMANWhat's wrong with that?

OMAsk him?

(pause)Why did you hide it from us?

VISHNUIt's not my life!

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OM(slowly- figuringout Vishnu)

So that's why...

VISHNUI'm just driving the truck.

BOYDriver?

VISHNU looks at the BOY, nods and breaks into a wide smile.

VISHNUDriver.

BOY(snapping hisfingers inexcitement)

Let's sell it now. With the movie! You could make a lot of money.

OMNo. I told you, the projectors.

(pause)So that's why you hate it!

WOMANYou've got to try some. C'mon.

VISHNU backs off. But even in their haze of hash OM, theBOY and the WOMAN pin him down. The WOMAN pours the oilonto his head. VISHNU chokes and gags but in momentssuccumbs to her touch. It's a sensual moment and thesexual tension between them grows.

He looks at himself in the cracked mirror.

WOMAN (CONT'D)Now you're looking like a man.

VISHNUThat's what my father says. Oilyour hair. Be a man.

VISHNU takes a drag of the hash pipe mumbling ATMA'S wordsagain. OM smiles, retrieves his hash pipe and turns tothe screen.

The BOY shows him his purchases; a collar and a chain.

OMWhat's that for?

The BOY whispers in his ear. OM smiles.

A faded silver chain with a cross around OM'S neck swingsout. The glitter catches the BOY'S attention.

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OM looks at him staring at it and in an impulsive gesturetakes it off and puts it around the BOY'S neck.

The BOY beams.

BOYSo when you die they bury you.

(pause)You're different?

OM smiles at the BOY.

OMWell what's difference? Just twosides of the same story.

BOY(thinking)

I don't want to be burnt.

97 INSIDE THE TRUCK 97

The BOY'S shopping lies neatly between the projectors.

He's decorating the truck. The WOMAN and VISHNU join in. The three transform the place. It looks like home.

They stand back to take a look- proud of their work.

98 EXT. SCREEN -- LATER 98

Bleary eye VISHNU looks out at the screen. The image isa blur. The movie still plays. The audience is streamingin even as dawn in breaking.

VISHNU marks off a staff |||. Three days left.

FADE OUT:

99 EXT. TRUCK BOTTOM -- MORNING 99

The four sleep beneath the truck. Shielding themselvesfrom the harsh sunlight.

VISHNU wakes with a start. It's blinding bright and hecan't see a thing. In fear he turns and sees the BOY inthe WOMAN'S arms secure and safe.

He stares at her breasts rise and fall.

He leans across and smells her hair and it doesn't seemso revolting.

100 EXT. OUTBACK -- CONTINUOUS 100

He slithers out from beneath the truck. The field isbarren, silent and spotless. There's no trace of theevents the night before. VISHNU rubs his eyes indisbelief. Everything has been consumed and recycled.

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He opens the cabin door. His plastic lunch bag flies outin the gust of breeze. He stares at it mesmerized byit's lurid color as it floats down the barren landscape.

Feeling guilty he runs after it.

101 EXT. OUTBACK -- MORNING 101

VISHNU walks back towards the truck the offensive plasticbag in hand.

The BOY is washing the truck down like an elephant at abath.

He's also got a breakfast going. Boiled eggs, tea andbread. The BOY pours a cup.

VISHNU sips the tea hesitantly. The BOY looks inanticipation. Vishnu makes a gesture- "it's great."

VISHNUStarbucks?

The BOY smiles widely. OM sees the breakfast and clutcheshis stomach.

OMI'm suddenly ravenous.

The four wolf down their food like they've never eatenbefore. OM strokes his round stomach and pats it. Hebelches loudly, satisfied after the meal.

OM (CONT'D)The keys?

VISHNUWhat?

OMThe keys?

BOYYou're not going to...

OMI want to drive.

VISHNUNo way. I'm not letting you. You'll kill us... with all thatshit inside you.

OMIt's shit when it comes from yourshitty town.

(pause)Out here the grass is pure. Andit helps the pain.

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VISHNUYou actually believe that rubbish.

(pause)And anyway, you've probably neverdriven in decades.

OMWatch your tongue.

VISHNU(firmly)

How many years?

OM(giving in)

15.

VISHNU refuses and climbs behind the wheel. OM is rootedto the ground.

OM (CONT'D)Find your own road then. Let'ssee where you get to.

He ambles off.

VISHNU tosses the keys back at OM. Annoyed that he alwayshas his way.

102 INSIDE THE CAB 102

OM settles into the drivers seat. And suddenly he'sexcited like a six year old.

He starts the engine and slowly coaxes a roar out of it. He releases the clutch and the truck leaps ahead.

VISHNU flies into the windshield. The BOY laughs. Andso does VISHNU.

VISHNUEasy on the clutch...

VISHNU clutches the handle bar. And now OM is sweating.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Constant speed...

The BOY is laughing at the reversal of roles.

The trucks rocks and jerks, rocks and jerks. And after awhile settles into a steady rhythm.

There's a palpable sigh of relief in the cab.

OM starts to whistle.

The atmosphere in the cabin eases up. The BOY sticks thecell phone out of the window trying to catch a signal.

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The WOMAN sits in the bunk behind VISHNU. Her arm brushesVISHNU'S shoulder. He moves closer. She lets it remain.

And suddenly OM hits the breaks HARD.

The truck stops. There's a loud thud of cans falling inthe back.

OM jumps out and runs into shrubs. He seems to be chasingsomething.

VISHNU stares at the BOY. Something's escaping him.

103 OUTSIDE 103

OM bends down and starts to whistle. Calling, beckoning...and suddenly it's clear as daylight.

VISHNU(screaming)

A DOG.

BOYStop yelling.

VISHNUYou mean all that was for a dog?

The WOMAN looks at the three, unaware of what's going onbetween them.

BOYYes.

VISHNUWhy do you want a dog?

BOYWell...

VISHNUWell, what? You have an instantanswer for everything, what's thematter now?

BOYBecause....

VISHNUWHAT?

BOYA dog. I need a dog. Every manneeds a dog.

VISHNUYou're just a boy.

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BOYI need a friend. I'm the onlyone who's alone here. You've allgot someone to talk to.

(pause)And you're no friend. You'rejust screaming all the time...

(pause)And when you find your road, you'llleave us.

There's a sudden silence. The BOY has brought home thereality of VISHNU'S task. They silently get back into thetruck.

OM tosses the keys to VISHNU in a petulant fit.

OMFollow that path. You'll hit ariverbed. Turn right into it. Drive on the river bed for a 100miles. By night fall you shouldfind your road.

WOMANYou can leave me here. I'll walkback.

BOYWhat if you don't find any water?

VISHNU(sharply)

We'll find her water and thendrop her off. That was the deal.

(pause)NOW GET BACK IN.

VISHNU'S tone of authority and command takes OM and theBOY by surprise.

104 EXT. OUTBACK -- LATER 104

The truck takes a turn. VISHNU spots a low mound on theflat earth. Surrounded by dark grass.

VISHNUWell! Well! It's a well!

The WOMAN is shaking her head in despair. She doesn'tshare his enthusiasm.

As they come closer VISHNU sees a well covered with awooden board. Huge padlocks and barbed wire surround it.

He gets off the truck. Pulls a crowbar from the tool boxand begins to pry the wood.

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WOMANSTOP. Don't even try that. Ifthey find this has been touched,they'll kill the first personthey see.

But VISHNU doesn't listen. Arms raised in the air poisedto break the board, his hand falls.

There's a loud CRACK of the wood. The four stare silentlyand slowly creep towards it.

Deep down below they can glimpse some water. But it'stoo far to reach. The WOMAN grabs VISHNU'S hand and pullshim away firmly.

They quietly retreat into the truck.

105 EXT. OUTBACK -- LATER 105

The mood inside is sombre. VISHNU has his eyes peeled forany signs of water. The WOMAN has fallen asleep alongwith the BOY. That's the only escape from the heat.

OM is wide awake.

OMVishnu, you have to get this truckback on the road. Why are yougetting involved in all this?

VISHNU avoids OM'S gaze.

OM (CONT'D)Well I know that feeling. Butyou're from different worlds. Where is it going to take you?

The truck stutters to a stop. Steam hisses from theengine. VISHNU looks at OM expecting him to go check.

OM (CONT'D)Your truck. You fix it.

VISHNUWhat about our deal?

OMShe wasn't part of our deal.

106 OUTSIDE 106

VISHNU checks the water in the radiator. But OM isrelentless.

OMPassion, passion, passion. Hasn'tit destroyed all of us.

(pause)Stop thinking about yourself.

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VISHNU stares at OM, hurt that he's been misunderstood.

107 EXT. OUTBACK -- LATER 107

On the endless outback the truck continues. And slowsdown at another well with barbed wire and huge padlocks.

VISHNU'S eyes brighten but the BOY is quick to realize.

BOYIt's the same one.

WOMANYou've been going in circles.

VISHNU stops the truck and sinks his head into the wheel.

The WOMAN begins to laugh hysterically. VISHNU isirritated at first and then amused. The BOY and OM joinin and what was a tense moment lightens up within seconds.

WOMAN (CONT'D)That's what happens to novices. You should have listened to me.

The WOMAN points in a direction completely opposite.

VISHNUBut we're going back.

OMListen to her Vishnu. Only shecan get us out of this.

VISHNU turns the truck right round.

They drive past a large patch of earth which is burntblack. VISHNU notices the WOMAN look away.

The BOY is mesmerized by this and keeps looking back asthe black patch of earth vanishes in the distance.

FADE OUT

108 INT. TRUCK -- DUSK 108

VISHNU gropes in the dark. He switches on the light. Itfills the truck with a pale glow.

The BOY is fast asleep. So are OM and the WOMAN. In themiddle of nowhere VISHNU is all alone.

He turns to get a glimpse of the WOMAN. And suddenly thephone vibrates. He looks at it and then at the worldaround him. His gaze falls on the WOMAN.

BRRRRR- The phone continues to call his attention. VISHNUdisconnects. And then shuts the phone off and stuffs itdeep inside the glove compartment.

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109 INSIDE THE TRUCK -- NIGHT 109

VISHNU lays out a mattress between the projectors.

He stares at the WOMAN. There's a moment of lingeringsexual tension. And then he grabs her in a sudden burstof passion. She slows him down, guiding him as he fumblesand then gives into the heat of the moment.

The lovemaking is passionate long and endless. And afterthat they still don't want it to end. She twists hisbody between her legs. Caressing his face, chin and neckwith her toes and feet.

110 OUTSIDE 110

In the solitude of the desert OM can hear every sound. His eyes are wide open and filled with remorse.

111 INSIDE 111

WOMANWhy do you want to sell this? It's lovely. Like a home.

VISHNU doesn't answer.

WOMAN (CONT'D)What will you do when this isgone?

VISHNU has no answer. He just stares at her.

WOMAN (CONT'D)Your family?

VISHNUThey're different.

WOMANLike me?

VISHNU(smiles)

No. Really different. In theirown worlds.

WOMANAren't you?

VISHNUThey think I'm strange. But youknow, the thing is, I don't wantto be like them. I want to...

And then he stops feeling silly and awkward. And insteadcaresses the curves of her leg. She smiles.

WOMANDo you like traveling?

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VISHNUI haven't much. Just a fewholidays. School. With family. That kind of thing. It wasawful...

(pause)You?

WOMAN(pause)

We're always wandering. That'shome for me.

(pause)But never on the road.

VISHNU traces his finger from her breasts all the waydown past her stomach, between her legs.

WOMAN (CONT'D)Careful! You'll get lost.

They laugh and intertwine their bodies.

112 EXT. OUTBACK -- DAWN 112

The morning after the night's passion. There's atenderness in their gaze and touch.

VISHNU sits up and stares at the boxes of oil.

The WOMAN opens her eyes and then decides to leave himalone.

113 EXT. OUTBACK -- DAY 113

VISHNU stops the truck. He leaps out of the cab and runs. The BOY follows him. OM comes shuffling behind.

VISHNU chases a small pup around the shrubs. OM, the BOYand the WOMAN circle the terrified pup. VISHNU scoops itup and hands it to the BOY triumphantly.

VISHNUHe's cute isn't he?

The BOY looks at the puppy unconvinced.

BOYNo.

VISHNUWhat?

BOYNot this dog.

VISHNUThen which dog?

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BOYHe's not the right one.

VISHNU turns to OM for a second opinion. OM looks at thepup, scratches his head and thinks. After a measuredpause he looks VISHNU in the eye.

OMNot the right one.

(pause)Let's go.

VISHNU looks at the WOMAN. Hoping she'll say yes. Shelooks at the pup and shakes her head.

VISHNU is left speechless. He drops the pup on the groundwho scampers away.

The drive continues in silence.

VISHNU(muttering)

Not the right one.(pause)

A dog is a dog is a dog.

OMLet him decide what he wants. It's his life isn't it?

(pause)Isn't that how you want it too?

114 EXT. OUTBACK -- DAY 114

The truck moves along the flat open land.

A cloud of dust rises in the distance. A dozen men armedwith guns their faces covered in cloth riding on motorbikeschase the truck.

115 INSIDE 115

VISHNU and the three are unaware they are being chased.

116 OUTSIDE 116

The motor bikes surround the truck.

Gunshots ring in the air.

VISHNU panics. He presses the accelerator. The trucklurches forward.

The motorbikes roar in anger and give chase.

WOMANJust pull over.

VISHNUAre you crazy? They'll kill us.

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WOMANNo. You're crazy. Run away andthey'll definitely kill us. Standup and face them.

VISHNU(panicking)

What do they want?

The WOMAN'S face falls. VISHNU notices.

VISHNU (CONT'D)I shouldn't have got into this.

OMWhat did I tell you.

VISHNUNO. I mean even YOU.

(pause)All of you.

The WOMAN points to the side. VISHNU swerves the truck.

The BANDIT bangs the butt of his gun on the door.

BANDITGET OUT OF THE TRUCK.

117 OUTSIDE 117

The bandits surround the truck. There's a hush. VISHNU,OM and the WOMAN look nervously. The bandits slowly partto form a corridor through which a short, puny man withtousled, matted hair approaches- this is VEERU theWATERLORD.

He looks VISHNU and the WOMAN over. He points to hisopen jeep. His henchmen truss them to the rear.

118 INSIDE THE TRUCK 118

OM moves to step out. A BANDIT cocks his gun and bringsit to OM'S head.

BANDITFollow them.

119 EXT. OUTBACK -- CONTINUOUS 119

The jeep lurches off. The convoy follows.

The jeep approaches a well. It's been broken into.

120 BY THE WELL 120

The WATERLORD drags VISHNU and the WOMAN to the well. Hethrusts their faces into the broken boards.

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WATERLORDLook at this. All this is mine. I own it. Every single drop thatfalls from the sky, is mine.

He waves his hand in a sweeping gesture across the well. The henchmen cover the well with new boards and new locks. They pour petrol around the well and set fire.

The earth around erupts in flames.

The WATERLORD fires his gun in the air. The shot echoesin the silence of the outback. The convoy takes off.

The ring of fire recedes in the distance.

121 ON THE JEEP 121

MOVING

WATERLORDIt's the best distribution system. And I run it, single handed. IfI packed it in a bottle and gaveit a fancy name, would you stillcall me a criminal?

(pause)No. You'd call me a company. Acorporation. Give me medals andawards...

(pause)But I'm better than any bloodycorporation. Everyone gets mywater. From the richest to thepoorest. Even her tribe...

He places his gun next to the WOMAN'S head and fires. She screams in fright.

WATERLORD (CONT'D)You don't steal. You PAY. Nothingin life is free. Go tell that toyour tribe.

The convoy pulls up by an old abandoned quarry.

122 EXT. QUARRY -- CONTINUOUS 122

It appears unexpectedly in the barren expanse like a deepwound in the earth.

The four stare shocked at what they see.

Water tankers of all types, shapes and sizes cover thearea; trucks, bullock carts, large drums, jerry cans,leather-skins, open vats. There's no shortage of waterhere.

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WOMAN(whispers)

He's stealing it. And then sellingit back to us.

The WATERLORD looks at her angrily.

WATERLORDI heard that.

And then with a lecherous look in his eye puts his armsaround her and draws her away.

WATERLORD (CONT'D)(laughing)

I'm stealing you now. You'remine. And I get you for free.

OMOh no you don't.

OM leaps towards the WATERLORD. He swings his gun. Ithits OM in the face. He falls to the ground. Face coveredin blood.

VISHNU sees OM on the ground helpless, the WOMAN trappedin the WATERLORD'S arms, the BOY and the old truck; hisworld in front of his eyes. He slowly comes to his senses.

VISHNUWho has given you the right toown this?

The WATERLORD knocks VISHNU to the ground with his gun.

VISHNU (CONT'D)It's not yours. It's free. It...it... belongs to everyone.

The WATERLORD cocks his gun and holds the WOMAN tighter.

WATERLORDI can take what I want. When Iwant. I have the power.

VISHNU waits. The henchmen arm their guns and draw closer.

VISHNUYou can't privatize it, put it ina bottle and sell it back to us.

WATERLORDYou're teaching me how to run mybusiness?

VISHNU lies on the ground bleeding- he's not giving upnow.

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VISHNUYou're no different. You're asbad as those companies. What canshe do? Or the old man? You'retaking on the weakest.

The WATERLORD turns his gun to VISHNU.

WATERLORDYou're just a little kid. And wehave too many smart alecs tellingus what to do.

VISHNUAnd you're no man. You're...You're... worthless... junk...even my truck has more value.

VISHNU struggles and looks around frantically. His eyesfocus on the WATERLORD'S tousled, matted, dusty hair.

In a state of panic the words of ATMA unconsciously tumbleout of his mouth.

VISHNU (CONT'D)I'll... I'll show you what youneed.

The WATERLORD hesitates for a moment taken aback byVISHNU'S chutzpah. It's just the moment VISHNU needs.

He rushes to the back of the truck.

123 INSIDE THE TRUCK 123

He rummages in the truck desperately searching forsomething. The henchmen surround him- guns armed.

He pulls out a bottle of hair oil from the truck.

124 OUTSIDE 124

VISHNUSmell this.

The WATERLORD chokes at the smell. He hands it to theHENCHMAN who smells the oil and nods in approval.

VISHNU pours it on his head and slicks his hair back. Hestrikes a pose like the movie star on the poster stuck onthe side of the truck.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Go on. Be a real man. Oil yourhair.

The WATERLORD points to his hair. The HENCHMAN pourssome out and massages it in.

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But VISHNU disapproves. He holds his hand out and asksfor a comb.

He combs the WATERLORD'S hair back- in an Elvis puff.

The WATERLORD walks over to a large vat of water and looksat his reflection. VISHNU stands next to him.

He turns around and fires his gun in the air. The soundshatters the calm. He smiles in satisfaction.

WATERLORDHow many more do you have?

HENCHMANTwo boxes.

WATERLORDGet them out.

VISHNU raises his hand stopping him. He takes a deepbreath and summing up all the courage, speaks

VISHNUIt's not free. Oil was neverfree.

WATERLORD(surprised)

What?

VISHNUIt's not free.

OM, the WOMAN and the BOY stare at VISHNU. OM tries tointerrupt but nothing's stopping VISHNU now.

VISHNU (CONT'D)Everything has a price

(pause)One liter of water for every bottleof oil.

The WATERLORD looks at VISHNU.

WATERLORDYou're a tough negotiator. Noone has got water free from me.

VISHNU looks him straight in the eye.

VISHNUI made you a man.

The WATERLORD lowers his gun. He stares at himself inthe windshield. In love with his new image.

VISHNU pulls the WOMAN towards him.

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The HENCHMEN carry jerry cans of water to the truck. VISHNU hands them the bottles of hair oil.

125 IN THE TRUCK 125

They speed down the dusty track finally free. OM and theBOY are mimicking VISHNU- "Be a man, Oil your hair." ButVISHNU is shaking.

VISHNUHe could have killed me. It wascrazy...

The WOMAN puts her arms around VISHNU to comfort him. Heshudders as a chill goes up his spine.

126 EXT. TRIBE -- EVENING 126

The truck draws in slowly towards the tribe. They approachit with suspicion.

The WOMAN jumps out. They rush towards her protectively. And then turn to VISHNU, OM and the BOY. A smile on theirface and a sense of relief all around.

VISHNU is struck by their weather beaten faces, scarredby time. Their ragged clothes and the stark surroundings.

127 EXT. TRIBE -- LATER 127

An ELDER rubs paste and herbs into OM'S wound. Thebleeding stops. He lights up his hash pipe to ease thepain.

A simple fare of dried bread and chillies is laid out infront of them. VISHNU, OM and the BOY eat in silence.

The tribe unloads the water.

VISHNU looks at OM and smiles with a sense of havingaccomplished something.

OMDo you think a few cans of waterwill solve the problem?

VISHNUYou're so depressing.

OMI'm real. Got my feet on theground.

(pause)What's going to happen tomorrow? This is all so temporary. It'sfleeting.

VISHNUIt's real. It's... it's not likeyour cinema.

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VISHNU (CONT'D)(paused)

That's temporary, that's fleeting.

OM points to the sky above.

OMThat's real. The diamond sky. And so is this.

He holds up his hash pipe.

The two are locked in an argument again. A tribe elderinterrupts them.

ELDERWhat's in that truck?

BOYIt's a travelling cinema.

ELDERSo that's a cinema?

The three nod.

ELDER (CONT'D)Does it work?

VISHNUWhen it wants to.

Then he looks over towards OM

VISHNU (CONT'D)When he wants it too.

The ELDER nods and walks away to the group in the distance. They huddle around in a group deep in discussion. TheELDER then makes his way back.

ELDERCan you run this for us?

OM'S eyes widen. His expression lightens up. He looksat VISHNU triumphantly.

OMSee what's real?

And then he turns to the ELDER.

OM (CONT'D)He has to get to Samudra-bad. Bythe morning. He's lost his way.

The ELDER looks up at the night sky.

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ELDERDrive in that direction. You'llhit a dark patch. Turn right. Drive on the river bed. All theway till you meet the road.

OMWhere's the map?

VISHNU pulls out the paper from his pocket and lays itout. OM traces the route on the map. VISHNU stares athim and then at the ELDER wide eyed.

VISHNUSo the map was correct.

OMYou can't reject everything inlife.

(pause)At the right time everything hasit's place.

VISHNU looks around.

A small puppy has distracted the BOY. The BOY tries toshoo it away but the puppy latches onto the BOY.

VISHNUJust a quick one?

OM looks at him and shakes his head.

OMThis isn't the time. You're nothere to show movies. Get on withyour life.

VISHNUYou watch. It's my show. Forgetabout today, until tomorrow.

VISHNU whistles to the BOY. OM smiles.

128 INSIDE THE TRUCK 128

OM takes a bottle of oil from the box. He sniffs theoil. It's disgusting and yet he pours a generous amountinto his hand and rubs it vigorously in his hair.

129 OUTSIDE 129

OM steps out combing his hair. Preening himself, preparingfor the next film show. His hair shines and he lookslike a movie star.

VISHNU emerges from the other side. They stare at oneanother and then laugh. And then in a sudden impulsivegesture OM hugs him.

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130 INSIDE THE TRUCK 130

The puppy clambers in.

VISHNUI think you've found your friend.

The BOY ignores him.

BOYWhat should we show?

VISHNU and the BOY rummage around the boxes and lay out aselection of bits of film.

The WOMAN steps in. She's washed her face and is lookingstriking. VISHNU loses focus and throws the switch. Theprojector comes to life.

131 OUTSIDE 131

The flickering image from the projector spills over thetents onto the mounds of earth and on the bodies of people.

OM drags his small stool and sits in the center soakingin every moment of the film.

VISHNU and the BOY are the D.J's tonight. The WOMAN keepstossing them bits and pieces of film.

They make a good team.

An old comedy reel from Chaplin and Buster Keaton plays.

The rugged faces of the tribe lighten up as they smile.

OM'S infectious laughter adds to the moment. The tribelaughs in response to OM. He can't contain himself either. He is in paroxysms of laughter.

From the truck VISHNU and the BOY exchange glances.

VISHNUCan't keep him away from the grass.

(pause)But, he's a nice guy after all.

The WOMAN looks out at the tribe.

WOMANI've never seen them laugh somuch.

VISHNUOm was right about the movies.

(pause)He's always right isn't he?

They look out of the small cutout in the truck.

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132 OUTSIDE 132

OM is clutching his stomach in laughter.

His chair keels to one side and then he regains balance. Tears stream down his face.

An ELDER hands him the hash pipe. OM takes a drag. Thepipe is passed around.

OM'S chair straightens for a moment and then suddenlykeels over. And all of a sudden he's not there.

No one notices OM fallen on the ground. They are staringat the screen lost in laughter.

133 INSIDE 133

It's the first time the three are laughing. They stareat one another, stop and then begin laughing again.

Suddenly VISHNU notices the empty chair. He looks aroundfrantically and spots a dark mass on the ground.

VISHNU(to the Boy)

Go see what's happened? No selfcontrol.

134 OUTSIDE 134

The BOY runs out. The puppy follows. VISHNU looks atthem through the small cut out. The BOY is shaking OM. He's not responding. A few people gather around OM. Theyshake him, check his pulse, put an ear close to his nose.

The BOY calls out frantically to VISHNU. VISHNU abandonsthe projector. The movie continues.

He rushes up to the body lying inert on the ground. Hebends down and shakes OM hard.

VISHNUIt's that grass. He was perfectlyfine.

ELDERWhat are you saying? You don'tdie smoking this stuff.

ELDER 2He died laughing.

ELDER(nodding wisely)

Yes. Too much laughter... toomuch... Not good for life.

VISHNU stares at OM. Even in death he is laughing. Hiseyes wide open, joy and happiness on his face.

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VISHNU can't take his eyes off.

The WOMAN and the BOY kneel by OM'S body.

WOMANVishnu, leave him here. We'llbury him.

VISHNU stops to think and then shakes his head. He rushesto the truck and brings back the cloth screen.

VISHNUWrap him in this.

BOY(whispering)

But that's our screen.

VISHNUIt's his now.

The elders lift the body and carry it to the truck.

The puppy barks at the BOY for attention. The BOY stops,looks at it and scoops it in his arms.

135 EXT. RIVERBED -- DAY 135

VISHNU, the BOY, the WOMAN dig a deep pit in the earth.

They lower OM'S body into the riverbed and fill it withsand. Gunshots in the air add to the urgency.

The three stand around in prayer for a few moments.

VISHNU and the BOY are in tears.

The WOMAN drags them back towards the truck.

136 BY THE TRUCK 136

The mood amongst the three is sombre.

VISHNU looks at the WOMAN, the BOY and the dog. The WOMANsenses something. She averts his gaze.

The engine idles and its sound for once creates an edgeof tension.

BOYWe could show films... we couldtravel...

WOMANHe's got to sell his oil.

BOYWe could do that too.

(MORE)

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BOY (CONT'D)(pause)

Vishnu Talkies... Vishnu's hairoil...

WOMANWe have our lives, our destinies,our fate.

BOYWe could be a family.

WOMAN(to the Boy)

There's a time for everything. Didn't he say a good head ofhair... everything else is anillusion.

The WOMAN takes the small water pouch and hands it toVISHNU.

VISHNU is unable to contain himself.

He suddenly holds the WOMAN'S face and kisses her, grindinghis lips into hers. It's long and endless. He doesn'tlet her catch her breath.

Tears stream down her face and when he does let go theirfaces are awash in her tears.

VISHNU gets into the truck and slowly engages the gear.

The two walk away on the road.

In VISHNU'S rear view mirror they are a speck. His worldis a blur as tears fill his eyes.

137 EXT. CITY BY THE SEA -- EVENING 137

The truck floats through the city. Like a ship cominginto berth.

For VISHNU it's the slow closing of a dream.

He switches on his phone. The missed calls and messagesbeep reminding him of another world.

138 EXT. SEA -- EVENING 138

VISHNU is struck by the wide expanse of water.

He drives the truck into the water- like an animal beingled for a bath. It's tires are half submerged.

VISHNU strips his clothes off and jumps into the water. His head underwater all the sounds disappear. He openshis eyes. The sounds of the fair come back to him. Anecho in reverse.

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He stays underwater for an uncomfortably long time.

And just as we are giving up- his head bounces out. Hisloud gasp for breath comes as a shock.

He splashes water on the truck and cleans the dust off.

He spots a street vendor selling fresh lemon and chilies. He ties a bunch to the chassis of the truck.

He stares at the truck- now glistening and pats it's flankaffectionately.

139 EXT. MUSEUM -- EVENING 139

The CURATOR holds his hand out for the keys. VISHNUhesitates. The CURATOR waits indulgently.

VISHNUI forgot one thing of mine.

VISHNU rushes back to the truck and picks up the waterpouch and straps it to his side.

He looks back at the truck one last time. And then handsthe CURATOR the keys to the truck.

CURATOR(mumbling)

Can't make sense of yourgeneration.

140 EXT. BEACH -- LATER 140

He flips open his cell phone. And stares at the photofrom the fair- OM, the BOY, the WOMAN and VISHNU by apainted backdrop.

And VISHNU smiles- finally.

141 EXT. ROAD -- DAWN 141

An electric GREEN motor-bike. The hot rod kind.

VISHNU'S riding FAST. Very fast. And this time he'ssteady as a rock.

The water pouch strapped to his side- slowly blowing inthe wind.

FADE OUT

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