FLASHBACK TO THE PRECEDING CHRISTMAS
FREDDY (V.O.)
That’s always been a tough one for Dad to accept. It was Christmas the year before when I was just a kid and we had just come out here. It didn’t take me long to discover that was a mistake. The first week my bike was stolen. Anyway, we had this little dinky tree that Dad bought Christmas Eve, or maybe he didn’t because that’s about when they give them away. It was decorated with a string of lights and a few ornaments that Dad probably got discounted Christmas being the next day. The whole thing was really fucking sad. Dad wasn’t happy here and still ain’t. But he always says, “You gotta go where the work is,” trying to make it seem he had no choice, but he had a job when he left in Iowa so I think he did have a choice. Anyway, I had already shut down at school, hated the fucking place.
INT. FREDDY’S APARTMENT – CHRISTMAS MORING
Freddy looking unenthusiastically at a PEN SET and a PADRES BASEBALL CAP.
FREDDY’S DAD
Like the cap?
FREDDY
(Trying, but not very successfully, to appear pleased.)
Yeah, it’s great.
FREDDY’S DAD
I know it ain’t much of a Christmas, not like the ones back in Waterloo.
FREDDY
It’s okay, Dad.
FREDDY’S DAD
No it’s not, but I got another surprise for you. Open that card hanging from the tree.
Freddy takes the card and opens it. Big smile.
FREDDY
It says we’ll go out and get me skateboard. Is that true?
FREDDY’S DAD
Yeah. But I wanted you to pick out the one you want. Tomorrow we can go to
K-Mart or Toys R Us.
FREDDY
That’s so cool. Thanks a lot, Dad. But the guys at school who skate said that if you
want a good board you gotta go to a skateboard store like Pacific Shores Skater.
FREDDY’S DAD
That’s okay by me. Let’s drive down to the Shores and take a look. I could go for some
ocean air. We could even grab some breakfast on the way at McDonalds and eat it
down at the beach? That’ll be good way to spend Christmas morning.
FREDDY
Absolutely! And Shores Skater might even be open today.
FREDDY’S DAD
Well, let’s go and take a look.
FREDDY
That sounds really great, Dad.
EXT. F-10 PICKUP - DRIVING TO PACIFIC SHORES
The F-10 is shown driving out of Freddy’s white trash, ghetto neighborhood. Then driving through the beach town of Pacific Shore. Then swinging into McDonald’s drive thru.
INT. F-10 PICKUP – PARKING LOT FACING THE OCEAN – A PIER IS ON THE RIGHT
The ocean and pier can be seen as well as people walking on the BOARDWALK.
INT. F-10
Freddy’s dad is eating a big bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit. A large coffee sits on the dashboard. Freddy is eating hash browns with a small orange juice on the dashboard. Both are pensively looking out the front window. Finally Freddy looks over at his dad.
FREDDY
Whatchu thinking about, Dad?
FREDDY’S DAD
Last Christmas.
FREDDY
At Grandma’s and Grandpa’s?
FREDDY’S DAD
Yeah. That was a pretty good Christmas, wasn’t it? I mean your mom and me were
having some problems but we kept it together that day, didn’t we?
FREDDY
Yeah. Got a new bike. It was great.
FREDDY’S DAD
Still can’t believe it got stolen right in front of our apartment the first week we were
out here. Who’d of thought that would ever happen?
FREDDY’S DAD
It was a great bike, but now I’m goin to have a great skateboard. (Smiling.)
FREDDY’S DAD
That’s right...Tell me, Freddy, do you miss your mom much? I know you two weren’t
getting along the last year or so.
Freddy grows solemn and pensive.
FREDDY
Sorry, Dad, but not really. Why? Do you? I mean she screwed you over royal.
FLASHBACK
INT. CAMERA FOLLOWS TO A DOOR THAT SAYS “THE BOSS.”
The door opens and reveals the boss having intercourse with Freddy’s mom. She is wearing a waitress uniform. She is sitting on the desk, her skirt up and her blouse open revealing her breasts. The BOSS is pounding away toward a climax and Freddy’s mom is moaning with pleasure, trying to keep her voice down.
NEXT SHOT
Both are straightening their clothes. The BOSS is handsome in a sleazy, city slicker sort of way. He looks more worldly than Freddy’s dad.
THE BOSS
Doesn’t your old man know about us?
FREDDY’S MOM
I doubt it. I almost wish he did.
The BOSS makes a surprised expression, as if he almost feels sorry for Freddy’s dad. Then his expression changes to one of playful lust and he reaches for Freddy’s mom’s breasts.
THE BOSS
Well, what he don’t know can’t hurt him.
BACK TO THE PRESENT
INT. F-10 PICKUP – PARKING LOT FACING THE OCEAN – A PIER IS ON THE RIGHT
FREDDY’S DAD
(Mopey expression.)
I guess I still love her, weird, huh?
FREDDY
I guess. She shouldn’t of cheated on you. Now he’s got more kids by her
than you do.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Looking at Freddy with a smile.)
But I got you. That’s all that matters.
FREDDY
I’m really glad I didn’t get stuck with her.
FREDDY’S DAD
Me too.
FADE OUT. FREDDY’S DAD LOOKING PENSIVELY AT THE OCEAN
EXT. PARKING LOT OF PACIFIC SHORES SKATEBOARD
The F-10 pulls up to a store with a sign that says Pacific Shores Skateboards and a giant mural with a kid doing an ollie, arms reaching in the air. Except for the mural the store is not much to look at from the outside, an older shabby stucco building that has seen a lot of tenants, but seems to fit the laidback surfing culture of the town. It is also located next to the beach so that the ocean can be seen in the distance.
INT. SKATEBOARD STORE
Inside, the store is like Santa’s skateboard workshop with dozens of colorfully designed decks hanging on the walls.
A tall, lanky guy somewhere in his twenties walks over. He’s wearing lots of TATTOOS. One on his forearm is of FRANKENSTEIN. Freddy looks over at his dad, as if expecting him to freak out. His dad gives him a quizzical look but then a reassuring smile.
SALESMAN
(Upbeat.)
Is somebody getting a skateboard for Christmas?
Freddy nods his head.
SALESMAN
Yeah? Great. And Merry Christmas to both of ya.
FREDDY’S DAD
Same here. I’m surprised you’d be open Christmas.
SALESMAN
All my family’s back east so I thought I’d open the store. We sold a lot of gift
certificates and I expect some kids will be coming in later on to pick out their boards...
FREDDY’S DAD
Like us.
SALESMAN
You’re the first. Do you have a certificate?
FREDDY’S DAD
No. Actually coming here was Freddy’s idea.
SALESMAN
Good choice. So is this your first board?
FREDDY
Yeah.
SALESMAN
Well, we have a big selection. See those decks on the wall (looking at the wall). First
of all, you need to choose one that you like, then we’ll go from there. Okay? So take
your time and grab me if you have any questions
FREDDY
Okay.
CAMERA PASSES OVER DECK DESGINS, SKULLS, HORRIFIC FACES, ETC.
FREDDY’S DAD
Do you sell plain boards or do they all have designs?
SALESMAN
We sell a lot of blank decks, but don’t display them for obvious reasons, but we sell
mostly boards with the graphics. It just depends on what the skater’s looking for.
Skateboarding is about self-expression and the graphics are part of it.
Freddy’s Dad nods his head to show that he understands but still seems mystified. Freddy walks toward the decks and his dad follows.
As Freddy looks at the decks, his dad starts points out decks with innocuous designs.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Hopefully, pointing to one with an image of a panda bear)
What do you think about that one?
FREDDY
(Slightly annoyed.)
A panda bear? I don’t think so, Dad.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Perplexed.)
Here’s a funny one with a scared SpongeBob.
FREDDY
(Again annoyed.)
Don’t think so, Dad. That’s more for kids.
Amused, Freddy glances up at his dad, as if thinking, “Oh Dad, you’re so clueless!” Then Freddy notices a SERIAL KILLER deck with CHARLES MANSON’S face staring at him with that crazed expression. Freddy’s dad notices Freddy looking at the Manson deck, and then Freddy looks over to Salesman hoping he’ll come over and he does.
SALESMAN
(Upbeat.)
Got a question?
FREDDY
Yeah...I was just wondering about that Charlie Manson deck. Is it a good one?
Freddy’s dad has an alarmed look.
SALESMAN
Serial Killer decks? Yeah, they’re a good deck. I mean sure, you might want to
upgrade to an Element or a Mullen Uber Light or Foundation after you’ve mastered a
bunch of tricks, but for now the Serial Killer will work. You like that crazy Manson
design don’t you?
FREDDY
(Looking over at his dad.)
Yeah. I do...What do you think, Dad?
FREDDY’S DAD
(Shaking his head in dismay.)
Charlie Manson? Jesus Freddy, why not one with a skull or something if it’s got to be
awful?
Freddy simmers, but doesn’t answer.
FREDDY’S DAD
(To the salesman.)
Why would they put Charles Manson’s face on a skateboard for kids?
SALESMAN
Kids like the graphics for their shock value.
FREDDY’S DAD
I guess it works because I’m pretty shocked.
SALESMAN
(Smiling, amused, but understanding.)
Exactly. But I wouldn’t make too much out of it. It’s a little harmless rebellion, that’s
all. (Sees Freddy’s dad isn’t convinced.) It’s like that decal of Calvin pissing on a
Ford.
Turning to his dad Freddy chuckles.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Still mopey.)
I guess. Still, it’s sick.
SALESMAN
Think of it this way, most the damage the board receives is on the bottom of the deck.
After a few boardslides you won’t even know it’s Charlie Manson.
FREDDY’S DAD
You mean the face will be ground away?
SALESMAN
Yeah, let me show you.
The salesman goes into the back room and comes out with a used board.
SALESMAN
See.
Close up of the bottom of the deck, which is scraped so that the graphic is unrecognizable. He then puts the deck down and takes the Manson deck down from the wall.
SALESMAN
The main thing is the workmanship and material of the board, or the deck as this part
of the skateboard is called. These decks are made from laminated maple, six or seven
layers.
He hands the deck to Mr. Louche with the edge up so he can see the layers of wood.
FREDDY’S DAD
I see.
Freddy’s dad looks at Freddy and back to the salesman.
SALESMAN
And this one’s pretty inexpensive, thirty-five bucks. Probably discounted to move it
out.
FREDDY’S DAD
The boss probably got tired at looking at it.
SALESMAN
Maybe. More likely it’s parents putting their foot down. You can see the images on the
decks are for the kids, not parents. If they were for the parents, the kids wouldn’t
want them. Like I said, it’s all about self-expression.
FREDDY’S DAD
I understand. Still why Serial Killer? It seems awfully extreme.
SALESMAN
That’s it exactly. Shock value. Let’s face it, it gets your attention. But the name also
makes the point that these are killer boards in the sense of being impressive or of
superior quality.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Getting the point but still not convinced.)
I see.
Freddy’s dad looks back the decks on the wall and points to an Element deck with picture of a tree on it.
How much is that one?
SALESMAN
That deck’s sixty bucks.
Freddy’s dad gives his son hopeless look.
FREDDY (V.O.)
That’s always been a tough one for Dad to accept. It was Christmas the year before when I was just a kid and we had just come out here. It didn’t take me long to discover that was a mistake. The first week my bike was stolen. Anyway, we had this little dinky tree that Dad bought Christmas Eve, or maybe he didn’t because that’s about when they give them away. It was decorated with a string of lights and a few ornaments that Dad probably got discounted Christmas being the next day. The whole thing was really fucking sad. Dad wasn’t happy here and still ain’t. But he always says, “You gotta go where the work is,” trying to make it seem he had no choice, but he had a job when he left in Iowa so I think he did have a choice. Anyway, I had already shut down at school, hated the fucking place.
INT. FREDDY’S APARTMENT – CHRISTMAS MORING
Freddy looking unenthusiastically at a PEN SET and a PADRES BASEBALL CAP.
FREDDY’S DAD
Like the cap?
FREDDY
(Trying, but not very successfully, to appear pleased.)
Yeah, it’s great.
FREDDY’S DAD
I know it ain’t much of a Christmas, not like the ones back in Waterloo.
FREDDY
It’s okay, Dad.
FREDDY’S DAD
No it’s not, but I got another surprise for you. Open that card hanging from the tree.
Freddy takes the card and opens it. Big smile.
FREDDY
It says we’ll go out and get me skateboard. Is that true?
FREDDY’S DAD
Yeah. But I wanted you to pick out the one you want. Tomorrow we can go to
K-Mart or Toys R Us.
FREDDY
That’s so cool. Thanks a lot, Dad. But the guys at school who skate said that if you
want a good board you gotta go to a skateboard store like Pacific Shores Skater.
FREDDY’S DAD
That’s okay by me. Let’s drive down to the Shores and take a look. I could go for some
ocean air. We could even grab some breakfast on the way at McDonalds and eat it
down at the beach? That’ll be good way to spend Christmas morning.
FREDDY
Absolutely! And Shores Skater might even be open today.
FREDDY’S DAD
Well, let’s go and take a look.
FREDDY
That sounds really great, Dad.
EXT. F-10 PICKUP - DRIVING TO PACIFIC SHORES
The F-10 is shown driving out of Freddy’s white trash, ghetto neighborhood. Then driving through the beach town of Pacific Shore. Then swinging into McDonald’s drive thru.
INT. F-10 PICKUP – PARKING LOT FACING THE OCEAN – A PIER IS ON THE RIGHT
The ocean and pier can be seen as well as people walking on the BOARDWALK.
INT. F-10
Freddy’s dad is eating a big bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit. A large coffee sits on the dashboard. Freddy is eating hash browns with a small orange juice on the dashboard. Both are pensively looking out the front window. Finally Freddy looks over at his dad.
FREDDY
Whatchu thinking about, Dad?
FREDDY’S DAD
Last Christmas.
FREDDY
At Grandma’s and Grandpa’s?
FREDDY’S DAD
Yeah. That was a pretty good Christmas, wasn’t it? I mean your mom and me were
having some problems but we kept it together that day, didn’t we?
FREDDY
Yeah. Got a new bike. It was great.
FREDDY’S DAD
Still can’t believe it got stolen right in front of our apartment the first week we were
out here. Who’d of thought that would ever happen?
FREDDY’S DAD
It was a great bike, but now I’m goin to have a great skateboard. (Smiling.)
FREDDY’S DAD
That’s right...Tell me, Freddy, do you miss your mom much? I know you two weren’t
getting along the last year or so.
Freddy grows solemn and pensive.
FREDDY
Sorry, Dad, but not really. Why? Do you? I mean she screwed you over royal.
FLASHBACK
INT. CAMERA FOLLOWS TO A DOOR THAT SAYS “THE BOSS.”
The door opens and reveals the boss having intercourse with Freddy’s mom. She is wearing a waitress uniform. She is sitting on the desk, her skirt up and her blouse open revealing her breasts. The BOSS is pounding away toward a climax and Freddy’s mom is moaning with pleasure, trying to keep her voice down.
NEXT SHOT
Both are straightening their clothes. The BOSS is handsome in a sleazy, city slicker sort of way. He looks more worldly than Freddy’s dad.
THE BOSS
Doesn’t your old man know about us?
FREDDY’S MOM
I doubt it. I almost wish he did.
The BOSS makes a surprised expression, as if he almost feels sorry for Freddy’s dad. Then his expression changes to one of playful lust and he reaches for Freddy’s mom’s breasts.
THE BOSS
Well, what he don’t know can’t hurt him.
BACK TO THE PRESENT
INT. F-10 PICKUP – PARKING LOT FACING THE OCEAN – A PIER IS ON THE RIGHT
FREDDY’S DAD
(Mopey expression.)
I guess I still love her, weird, huh?
FREDDY
I guess. She shouldn’t of cheated on you. Now he’s got more kids by her
than you do.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Looking at Freddy with a smile.)
But I got you. That’s all that matters.
FREDDY
I’m really glad I didn’t get stuck with her.
FREDDY’S DAD
Me too.
FADE OUT. FREDDY’S DAD LOOKING PENSIVELY AT THE OCEAN
EXT. PARKING LOT OF PACIFIC SHORES SKATEBOARD
The F-10 pulls up to a store with a sign that says Pacific Shores Skateboards and a giant mural with a kid doing an ollie, arms reaching in the air. Except for the mural the store is not much to look at from the outside, an older shabby stucco building that has seen a lot of tenants, but seems to fit the laidback surfing culture of the town. It is also located next to the beach so that the ocean can be seen in the distance.
INT. SKATEBOARD STORE
Inside, the store is like Santa’s skateboard workshop with dozens of colorfully designed decks hanging on the walls.
A tall, lanky guy somewhere in his twenties walks over. He’s wearing lots of TATTOOS. One on his forearm is of FRANKENSTEIN. Freddy looks over at his dad, as if expecting him to freak out. His dad gives him a quizzical look but then a reassuring smile.
SALESMAN
(Upbeat.)
Is somebody getting a skateboard for Christmas?
Freddy nods his head.
SALESMAN
Yeah? Great. And Merry Christmas to both of ya.
FREDDY’S DAD
Same here. I’m surprised you’d be open Christmas.
SALESMAN
All my family’s back east so I thought I’d open the store. We sold a lot of gift
certificates and I expect some kids will be coming in later on to pick out their boards...
FREDDY’S DAD
Like us.
SALESMAN
You’re the first. Do you have a certificate?
FREDDY’S DAD
No. Actually coming here was Freddy’s idea.
SALESMAN
Good choice. So is this your first board?
FREDDY
Yeah.
SALESMAN
Well, we have a big selection. See those decks on the wall (looking at the wall). First
of all, you need to choose one that you like, then we’ll go from there. Okay? So take
your time and grab me if you have any questions
FREDDY
Okay.
CAMERA PASSES OVER DECK DESGINS, SKULLS, HORRIFIC FACES, ETC.
FREDDY’S DAD
Do you sell plain boards or do they all have designs?
SALESMAN
We sell a lot of blank decks, but don’t display them for obvious reasons, but we sell
mostly boards with the graphics. It just depends on what the skater’s looking for.
Skateboarding is about self-expression and the graphics are part of it.
Freddy’s Dad nods his head to show that he understands but still seems mystified. Freddy walks toward the decks and his dad follows.
As Freddy looks at the decks, his dad starts points out decks with innocuous designs.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Hopefully, pointing to one with an image of a panda bear)
What do you think about that one?
FREDDY
(Slightly annoyed.)
A panda bear? I don’t think so, Dad.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Perplexed.)
Here’s a funny one with a scared SpongeBob.
FREDDY
(Again annoyed.)
Don’t think so, Dad. That’s more for kids.
Amused, Freddy glances up at his dad, as if thinking, “Oh Dad, you’re so clueless!” Then Freddy notices a SERIAL KILLER deck with CHARLES MANSON’S face staring at him with that crazed expression. Freddy’s dad notices Freddy looking at the Manson deck, and then Freddy looks over to Salesman hoping he’ll come over and he does.
SALESMAN
(Upbeat.)
Got a question?
FREDDY
Yeah...I was just wondering about that Charlie Manson deck. Is it a good one?
Freddy’s dad has an alarmed look.
SALESMAN
Serial Killer decks? Yeah, they’re a good deck. I mean sure, you might want to
upgrade to an Element or a Mullen Uber Light or Foundation after you’ve mastered a
design don’t you?
FREDDY
(Looking over at his dad.)
Yeah. I do...What do you think, Dad?
FREDDY’S DAD
(Shaking his head in dismay.)
Charlie Manson? Jesus Freddy, why not one with a skull or something if it’s got to be
awful?
Freddy simmers, but doesn’t answer.
FREDDY’S DAD
(To the salesman.)
Why would they put Charles Manson’s face on a skateboard for kids?
SALESMAN
Kids like the graphics for their shock value.
FREDDY’S DAD
I guess it works because I’m pretty shocked.
SALESMAN
(Smiling, amused, but understanding.)
Exactly. But I wouldn’t make too much out of it. It’s a little harmless rebellion, that’s
all. (Sees Freddy’s dad isn’t convinced.) It’s like that decal of Calvin pissing on a
Ford.
Turning to his dad Freddy chuckles.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Still mopey.)
I guess. Still, it’s sick.
SALESMAN
Think of it this way, most the damage the board receives is on the bottom of the deck.
After a few boardslides you won’t even know it’s Charlie Manson.
FREDDY’S DAD
You mean the face will be ground away?
SALESMAN
Yeah, let me show you.
The salesman goes into the back room and comes out with a used board.
SALESMAN
See.
Close up of the bottom of the deck, which is scraped so that the graphic is unrecognizable. He then puts the deck down and takes the Manson deck down from the wall.
SALESMAN
The main thing is the workmanship and material of the board, or the deck as this part
of the skateboard is called. These decks are made from laminated maple, six or seven
layers.
He hands the deck to Mr. Louche with the edge up so he can see the layers of wood.
FREDDY’S DAD
I see.
Freddy’s dad looks at Freddy and back to the salesman.
SALESMAN
And this one’s pretty inexpensive, thirty-five bucks. Probably discounted to move it
out.
FREDDY’S DAD
The boss probably got tired at looking at it.
SALESMAN
Maybe. More likely it’s parents putting their foot down. You can see the images on the
decks are for the kids, not parents. If they were for the parents, the kids wouldn’t
want them. Like I said, it’s all about self-expression.
FREDDY’S DAD
I understand. Still why Serial Killer? It seems awfully extreme.
SALESMAN
That’s it exactly. Shock value. Let’s face it, it gets your attention. But the name also
makes the point that these are killer boards in the sense of being impressive or of
superior quality.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Getting the point but still not convinced.)
I see.
Freddy’s dad looks back the decks on the wall and points to an Element deck with picture of a tree on it.
How much is that one?
SALESMAN
That deck’s sixty bucks.
Freddy’s dad gives his son hopeless look.
FREDDY
(Impatient yet understanding.)
Dad, if you don’t want me to get the Manson board I’ll get a different one.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Smiling somewhat sadly, as if doesn’t understand the world.)
It’s your present, Freddy. You should get what you want.
The salesman sees the decision isn’t easy for Freddy’s dad.
SALESMAN
(To Freddy’s Dad.)
Keep in mind that most the time no one sees what’s on the bottom of the board because
it’s facing the ground.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Looking at Freddy, suddenly smiling.)
Let’s get it.
Freddy smiles.
FREDDY’S DAD
Does it come with wheels?
Camera: incredulous looks on Freddy’s and the salesman’s faces.
SALESMAN
(Indulgent smile.)
Nope. Those are extra. You need to buy trucks and wheels.
FREDDY’S DAD
Trucks?
SALESMAN
They’re the axles for the wheels.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Worried look.)
How much are they?
SALESMAN
(Noting Mr. Louche’s concern.)
Most run from 35 to 50 dollars per set, but we have a set of Macks that I can sell you
for 24 dollars that will do the job.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Looking pathetic.)
Thirty-five to fifty dollars is what I was expecting to pay for the board.
SALESMAN
You can buy one made in China for that price, but not a quality board.
FREDDY’S DAD
No, I don’t want a board made in China. Hell, everything else I buy is, ‘cept my truck.
EXT. FULL SHOT OF THE UGLY, OLD F-10 PARKED IN THE LOT
SALESMAN
Now all you need is some wheels and bearings and you’ll be set.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Turning to Freddy, joking.)
Oooh ahh...You sure you don’t want to play soccer? Hah, hah.
SALESMAN
Hell, soccer’s not even American. Skateboarding was born and bred in America.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Nodding in agreement.)
You’re right.
SALESMAN
(Smiling.)
Soccer balls are made in China and all this stuff is made in America, all the good stuff
anyway.
FREDDY’S DAD
Okay, you’ve convinced me.
SALESMAN
(Speaking quickly.)
I’ll set you up with Spitfire wheels for 30 bucks and some bearings for 16 bucks. There
are more expensive wheels and bearings just like there’s more expensive trucks and
decks but for what Freddy will be doing on the board for a while this equipment will
do the job. Oh yeah, you’ll need some grip tape. That’s the sandpaper that keeps the
skater from slipping off the board. I can sell you a sheet for five bucks. That’s a
hundred and ten dollars plus tax.
MEDIUM SHOT: FREDDY’S DAD LOOKING BEWILDERED
The salesman sees that Freddy’s dad is shocked by the price. Freddy is also a little shock.
SALESMAN
Tell you what, normally we charge to assemble a board, or you can do it yourself but
since it’s Christmas and you came here instead of one of those big box stores, I’ll put
your board together no charge. That way Freddy can go home and hit the streets right
away.
FREDDY’S DAD
(Resignedly giving his credit card but grateful.)
That would be great, thanks.
SALESMAN
(Ringing up the sale and returning the card.)
Come on in back so Freddy can see how the boards put together.
INT. WORKROOM
Freddy and his dad follow the salesman into a neatly kept workshop behind the counter. Tools hang on a wall above a workbench and a cabinet with little drawers for holding screws runs along the workbench. There is also a table in the center of the room.
The assembly is SHOT IN COMPRESSED TIME. However, the tattoos are prominent, especially the one of FRANKENSTEIN. Also, these shots should show the salesman putting on the GRIP TAPE in a fast and efficient manner. Freddy’s dad gives Freddy a happy but concerned look (POSSIBLE CUT to Freddy’s dad imagining a tattooed Freddy riding his skateboard).
SALESMAN
(Wiping the completed board and handing it to Freddy.)
Clean and lubricate the bearings regularly with Tri-Flow lubricant, cheaper lubricants
leave a film that collects grime, and this skateboard should last you a long time. If you
have questions just come by the store. Anyone who’s here will be glad to help you.
EXT. PARKING LOT OUTSIDE SKATEBOARD SHOP
FREDDY’S DAD
You like your skateboard, Freddy?
FREDDY
(Looking away from the board.)
I love it, Dad, thanks a lot. This is the best Christmas ever.
FREDDY’S DAD
That’s great...[pausing] Man that guy had a lot of tattoos, but I liked him. He was really
helpful and knew his job. It would have taken us a couple of hours to put the thing
together. And the way he put the grip tape on, I was impressed. He wasn’t sloppy at all,
smoothing off the edges with the extra tape. I don’t think I would have thought of
doing that.
FREDDY
Yeah, he was great. And don’t worry, Dad. I don’t plan to have Charles Manson
tattooed on my arm or anything.
FREDDY’S DAD
That’s great, Freddy.
FREDDY (V.O.)
I knew Dad would appreciate that. It was kinda my gift to him for getting me the
board. And it didn’t cost anything