"TALLADEGA NIGHTS" (2006)

We see a woman, LUCY BOBBY, 23, in the midst of giving birth in the back seét. “Driving: the car is REESE BOBBY, 26. He is

going way too’ fast in a gleaming immaculate tricked- -out chevy.

- REESE

Whoo-whoo!!! Honey will you look at that speedometer!! Just look at pn oo LUCY I am giving birth to your child you jackass!!

They go right by the hospital.

We hear the cry of a newborn as the speedometer strains to hit 140 mph.

An ORDERLY, 31, helps Lucy out of the car while a NURSE, 52, stands by holding the newborn. .

REESE Pe ne You got all this <7 You know — raisin’ him, being a mom?’ “All that?!

Reese floors it and, peels: ‘Sut, oF the hospital driveway. REESE BOBBY | SERS: ines: a call when he can drive!

Lucy Bobby puiis: up in a wood-paneled station wagon. In the seat next to her is five-year-old Ricky Bobby in a dirty Captain America T-shirt.

Beat as Lucy waits for Ricky to say something.

FIVE YEAR OLD RICKY BOBBY I wanna go fast!

She gets out and runs into the store. As soon as she enters we hear the car squeal and tear out of the parking iot.

Tough high school kids in a hot rod listen to loud music

while waiting at a red light. Another car pullscup.next to them and revs its engine. Mi a

Driver's side window roles down and. we seé five-year-old Ricky Bobby. i ,

FIVE YEAR. OLD RICKY. BOBBY I wanna go fast!- (20% 8

Light turns green and beth cars tear off the line.

It is Career Day and:a class of twenty fourth graders are listening.to a PARENT, ~ 35, talking about his job with his DAUGHTER; 9, next:-to him. In the front row is TEN-YEAR-OLD RICKY. Ke wears brates and an ill-fitting, bright, orange- collared shirt. He is clearly not one of the popular kids.

The Class claps anc the TEACHER, a reddish-brown-haired woman of about 42, steps in front of the class.

The class laughs. Ricky doesn’t know why.

There’s a little tap at the door. SEES bestigs 3 REESE BOBBY . Excuse me darlin...I’m Reese Bobby. I’m here for Career Day with my son.. Ricky..

We see Reese is peeking through the. door with a cigarette in his mouth. “sh

RICKY..." Dad! "3

_ °° “REESE BOBBY

Hey there hee. Man .you got big...How Tong’ : s it been? Three months? =

; ’ Ricky rapen:; yeats.

He hands Ricky the bill as the other boy and his Dad sit down. *

The kids oh and ah ane Ricky beams with pride.

Reese Bobby is Preis forcibly. eonetred “from ‘tive school by three JANITORS, while aa HAEENOE

REESE. BOBBY *: You people are in the wrong on this

one!!! So in “the:wrong!!! This is egregious!!! Do you. hear me, egrepions!!!

They toss Reese onto “the ‘parking lot. He gets up.

“RICKY Soy ial

You're a winner! You got the gift. Always remember: if you ain't first, you're last.

He jumps in his car and takes off.

SLOW DISSOLVE:

CARD: “The Talladega Speedway: Ten Years Later”

Overhead shot of Talladega Speedway 1992. We helicopter pan past an electric crowd cf two hundred thousand people as multi-colored stock cers tear down the straightaway with a deafening roar. Mmmm. It’s sweet.

ESPN ANCR #1(V.0.) It is a hot one here in Tailadega. And this crowd of over one hundred) i: and eighty thousand is enjoying one* heck of a race! Cal Naughton Jr. has been dueling Bill Elliot all day long... ori

We see a quick cut of the caution flag being waved. A hand full of cars pull into pit ‘row. We focus on one particular car: #28 The Laughing Clown Malt Liquor Car as it weakly rolls to a stop. As soon”'as": it stops the crew is all over it changing tires and fueling up. like they’re involved in some kind of siPoRtLyS bajiec.

We whip pan to the crew to see Ricky changing a tire. He’s on the crew. HE IS NOT THE DRIVER. He still has a dorky spiky haircut and a pimple or two with a name tag reading “Ricky” on his crew suits

The crew chiee, LUCIUS WASHINGTON, an intimidating African American man, starts talking to the driver.

The driver doesn’t respond. Lucius reaches into the car and touches the driver who slumps over.

Bush falls

over the pit crew. GLENN, a slightly affected

Georgian with a big Adam’s apple, speaks up.

LUCIUS ‘ Get this body out of the car. (turns to the crew) . 2 Alright gentleman the béttom line

is if we don’t finish thiS%race ‘our sponsor is gonna shit a chicken.

The créw starts to get the. bodyeut.. of the ear.

SUPER FASE

GLENN. ‘s ty

Think about. it. He was dead and he was still dfiving. It was...it was literally a ghost ‘car.

. Lbecirus I need me. a Griver. Who wants to go fast? Bs :

PusE IN TO, "RICKY BOBBY

Ricky raises: ‘his hand.

RICKY

I like to go fast.

LIGHTENING

1) Ricky being zipped up in the suit 2} into the seat 3}Close up of a tire peeling out 4) The car

QUICK SERIES OF CUTS-

tearing out of pit row with a vengeance

MUSIC: Steve Earle’s “Last cf the Troubadours”

OPENING CREDITS START

Buckle clicking him

kicks in hard.

In the crowded stands we see a FATHER, 49, a MOTHER, 48, and their two SONS all decked out in Nascar hats, shirts and jackets listening to the coverage on their race radios.

ESPN ANCR #1 (V.0.) We have got a situation for the Laughing Clown Malt Liquor number 28 car. Apparently Terry LeCheveaux is sick and one of his crew members has taken the wheel. wai

The two ESPN ANNOUNCERS follow the race.

ESPN ANNOUNCER: #2. That’s right Kurt. His nameé’-is Ricky Bobby and he’s: currently. in last place. Let’s just: “hepe he doesn’t hurt someone out there.

Ricky is moving ed Shaking. “He? Ss got his spotter in his ear as weil as Lucius.

“LUCIUS (V.0.) Just play it‘safe. I don’t want you wrecking that car and costing us three hundred thousand G.D. bucks.

We see his foot on the accelerator and he begins to pass cars. Ricky fakes high and then passes low. Taps somecne’s fender then dodges a wreck masterfully.

ESPN ANNOUNCER #1 Weil look at that. The tire changer in the 28 car is really going after Bi biel

Checkered flag is waving. We see Ricky finishing third.

A reporter from the show RPM is interviewing CAL nRucEr JR, 32, the winning driver, and Ricky. REPORTER FROM RPM , Another exciting race today at Talladega where Cal Naughton Jr. has brought home the checkered flag ‘fox, . his sixth win of the season. ane

But that’s not the big tary today. The big story is’a little-known tire changer; Ricky Bobby, who finished third in: the Laughing Clown Malt Liquor “Car. Ricky, where’ a you learn to drive like that?

We see that _Rficky isi, extremely nervous. ke just stares at the camera ror a 10K time.

iy: ‘ RICKY Do’ you want me to talk?

The team owner, Mr. DENNIT, a large’ garrulous man, watches the interview with Lucius. on?

LUCIUS: at Bad news is he's: going. to’ “need some on camera training. Good news is he can drive Mr. jPenndt.

‘MR. DENNIT - I'm just happy he didn’t wreck my (of Fe What's his name again?

‘LUCIUS Ricky. Richy’ Bobby.

We see Ricky Bobby in his car approaching the finish line with three cars in front of him. He zig zags through them tapping bumpers and then throws a balled-up piece of paper into Cal Naughton’s car as he wins.

Cal Naughton opens the piece of paper and it reads “Bye Bye.”

id.

MUSIC AND CREDITS CONTINUE TO ROLL.

MONTAGE OF SPONSOR PROGRESSION ON HOOD OF CAR

We see different decals being put on the hood of Ricky's car as they get more and more successful:

1} Laughing Clown Malt Liquor 2) Pabst Biue Ribbon Beer 3) Dom Perignon Champagne 4) Halliburton 5) The Vatican mks Sreey Winfrey 7} and finally... Skoal Bandits. nf Wate

Ricky is doing big victory donuts — in the ‘infiéray tearing up grass. i

When he’s done we see from. ‘overhead “that he’s written “I‘m

Ricky is line dancing.“with a dozen people behind him. He’s got a different hairstyle:and is a little more cleaned up.

Ricky Bobby tries to jam between two cars approaching the finish line. :

Ricky spins out and rolls into the infield. He gets out of his car and stands on the hood and waves two small American flags as the crowd cheers him.

Ricky is line dancing now with a hundred people behind him. He now looks good with some nice clothes and a good haircut.

Ricky is being introduced at the pre-race introductions. In the crowd a hot drunk bionde, CARLEY, 25, is sitting on her DIRT BAGGY BCYFRIEND’S shoulders in the crowd, We see her from behind as she takes off her top and flashes Ricky.

Ricky looks over at her and they ck 5 bs It ‘is love at

first sight.

RICKY 7: I have found my, angel

Ricky carries Carley in as ae gown through the front door of a huge McMansion in a development of identical McMansions. There is a giant® “bow ‘on it. They enter and make out furicusly.

We see a fluzey of: ichecketed flags shcoting through frame in succession as crowds go crazy.

Ricky working on his engine with some crew members, turns to camera.

Reveals a bag of pork rinds,

Carley sits behind the wheel of a bright red Porsche convertible while Ricky writes a check to the salesman.

Ricky is line dancing now with literally two thousand people behind him. He rules the race scene.

Ricky is being interviewed _by DICK BERGEECS for FOX in

th Se

another wictory. 8 Sere

DICK BERGERON, Heck of win iat how do. you feel?

Ricky finishes his. thought but now he’s cn ESPN’s The Hotseat being ingarvigved by. Stuart Scott.

y RICKY wrecked: into the cookie dough truck. I love-

Now he’s being interviewed by Katie Couric. RICKY ~racing. I love hitting that gap and making-

Ricky is being interviewed by Lou Debbs.

RICKY

-and the shakin. Heck, I even love the-

Ricky is now on a Spanish language talk show.

They both chuckle.

MEXICAN TALK sHow ‘WosT: Bueno Ricky a BREAD: ret a

Ricky finishing the. shuskle” and, -now being interviewed by Oprah Winfrey.

ot Hg épRaH WINFREY You’ ve become known as the ¢river who won't accept second place.

Ricky is now being interviewed by Elmo,

; ELMO Where does that desire come from?

Ricky is now surrounded by literally three hundred reporters with casette recorders and mics. We see this from an overhead shot.

is.

Ricky gives a wink and a click as hundreds of camera fire. MUSIC AND CREDITS END

Current Day. There are a dozen cays parked in: She. griveway: Hummers, pick-ups, a Porsche, a Trans Am, co

WORDS COME UP ACROSS THE BOTTOM OF THE Seon “PRESENT DAY AKA: RIGHT FRIGGIN’ NOW”

CU of Carly yelling.

CARLEY te as Supper’s ready! Come on everyone!

Ssupper!!

PANNING PAST A HUGE DINNER

We see a massive. spread’ ‘of PELE chicken, burgers, vegetables biscuits, etc. -

Ricky sits at the head of the table in a Mountain Dew varsity jacket. His TWO SONS, 9 and 7? are there in Mountain Dew jackets as well with Carley and CARLEY’S DAD, 71.

They are all holding hands and saying grace. During the entire scene there is a dog barking in the background.

{MORE}

Honey I just like the Christmas ue ae Jesus best. Z

CHIP : He was a man. He had: a beard:

RICKY at I will always like the “‘paby version the best! Do you hear me?! I'm the one who wins races and I’m the one who gets “imoney!!!—

: CARLEY

Ricky finish the grace. ‘ Se RICKY

wsOkK. .Déar tiny newborn infant Jesus, we thank you for all the races I’ve won and the 21.2 million dollars in total prize winnings thet I alone have earned. Also, due to a binding endorsement contract that stipulates I mention Mountain Dew whenever I say grace, I’d like to say that Mountain Dew is thirst guenching and delicious. Amen.

Everyone digs in.

17,

WILLIAMS JR

The teacher asked me what the capitol of North Carolina was and I said Washington D.C. and she said. you're wrong. So I said, “You got.’a lumpy butt,” and she got:imad and yelled at me and I pissed my pants. And I never changed my pee pants all day. I’m stillssittin’ in my dirty pee pants... <= "" .

RICKY § You kids are.just like your dad, precocious and*full of wonderment.

; WILLIAMS JR Snut up Chip! You’ re just a wrinkled old fart!

{MORE}

Kids, what’ Ss one gonna do?

HANK AND: WELELABS JR.

Win! . CARLEY Daddy what! $ your son-in-law gonna do? ~ CHIP

Ah heck. -win.

She and Ricky kiss in a really sexual way.

MUSIC: “Only Daddy That’1lli Walk The Line” by Waylon Jennings. We push through from the shadowy bowels of the speedway and

up and out an entrance way to the sunlit track. It is a breathtaking assault on the senses.

We see hundreds of thousand of fans and the jet black asphalt of the track with gleaming cars splayed across pit row like fighter planes as the crews prepare for the race.

Ricky, in shades and his driving suit, strides past all the trailers set up in the infield. Other drivers say hello and people grill dogs and eat barbecue. It is like a miniature city. A constant stream of people come up to Ricky and ask for his autograph and follow him while he walks:

it’s Ricky Bobby!

More people start to swarm, Ricky for: autographe. He signs

their programs, shirts, faces, hands’ and breasts without missing a beat.

_ CARLEY.:. Ricky, did you seé:this month’s issue ae eo Octané Magazine?

Carley holds: up the" magazine. It says “Formula One driver Jean Girard: ‘Our Driver of the Year!” There is a picture of a dashing driver’in front of a Formula One race car.

CARLEY

I already called them and said that you’ il never do another interview with them again.

He signs a program, a WOMAN’s chest and a BABY in guick succession.

A CUTE BRUNETTE, 27, with glasses comes up to Ricky.

Ricky signs her face and shirt really quickly.

CUTE BRUNETTE ae Ah! Ricky, it’s me, Susan. I’m your” assistant.

RICKY she Aw jeez, I’m sorry Susan. You gotta® stay clear of me when I go into autograph mode. I’m really orere,

Ricky and Carley start to walk: away Carley turns back to Susan. .

The cars aré@ ‘all laid out in their start positions on the track.

Lucius and the crew all in racing suits and open-feced helmets wait by Ricky’s car.

Za =

Ricky leans into the will cail window.

Stephen shows Ricky the tickets as Ricky ‘Leaves, Stephen turns to the TICKET TAKER next to ‘im.

STEPHEN : It’s so sad, he leaves two tickets

for his daddy ate every” ‘race ; ae he never shows up.

Ricky comes running out onto the track. The crowd goes crazy.

; ‘MIKE :JOY {V.0.) And-here comes- Ricky Bobby! Wow. Listen.tce that ovation. He has

-j really: become one of the most popular drivers on the circuit.

DARRYL WALTRIP {V.0.) And this despite the fact that he’s never won a points championship. He wins the most races but he has too meny wipe outs and no finishes to Win the overall points a championship...

Ricky jumps in his car like a maniac and stérts the engine.

We see Naughton in his car.

We cut away to Ricky’s foot hitting the accelerator, the carburetor sucking in a whoosh of air, a spark ignites and the pistons slam up from the explosion. The shining chrome engine roars itike a metailic lion.

All of the cars tear off down the straightaway with a deafening wall of sound that you hear with your whole body. Glenn and Lucius watch on from pit row. faa

GLENN ; You know what I never get: ‘tired ‘of Lucius? Our ciara 23

The race is in its einai twenty laps. Cal Naughton is leading with two cars behind him and then Ricky.

_ MIKE “JOY (V.0.) Ricky. ‘Bobby... is doing everything he -. can to.catch Cal Naughton Jr but this is just Cal’s day.

We ‘See the balcony of spotters watching the race from overhead with binoculars. RICKY’S SPOTTER, 52, with a mustache and sunglasses, waves Ricky off.

RICKY {V.0.) Do I gct room to pass between the two cars in front of me?

RICKY’S SPOTTER Ricky there’s no room. Stay in your iane!

Ricky accelerates towards a really small gdp between two cars. He hits one and they all spin out leaving Cal in the clear.

CAL NAUGHTON °°: Whoo! Goodbye Ricky!! —

Ricky has stopped spinning so that he’s facing the wrong way- He kicks the car into reverse and keeps gcing, BACKWARDS. ‘DARRYL WALTRIP Ricky Bobby is trying to finish the Ytace in reverse! This is unbelievable! !

Ricky passes Cal and takes the checkered the flac while flipping Cal the bird.

cUT TS:

Crew is shooting bottles of champagne into the air, celebrating.

Lucius pulls Ricky aside.

RICKY res I’m not stupid Lucius, no one Lives. forever. But with advances in modern science and my high income it ain’t crazy to think I can ‘live. to be 245, maybe even three bunds ed? years old. ee

Maybe even four hundred years. I heard they just put a pig heart in ' some guy from Russia.

” HERSHELL (.0. } Come on Ricky get over here and ai, celebrate! ”

We see the crew daricing and spraying champagne all over each other. Ricky joins them.

We see one crew member has gone a little too far in his celebration. He is in his underwear and is dancing and humping the back of Ricky’s car.

Everyone quiets a bit and looks at the CREW MEMBER: KYLE KYLE

I thought we were all getting crazy, you know, lettin locse.

29%

Mr. Dennit, the team owner, approaches Ricky. He has a beautiful and very young BLONDE WIFE, 19, with him.

Whoa, whoa, Mr. Dennit. I said with “all dué. respect.”

BLONDE WIFE

Why is that man having sex with that car?

The Crew Member is back humping the car. RICKY Kyle! Kyle! What did I just tell you?

A Gilley’s type Honky Tonk with stage and bar in the back. Five hundred people are pressed up against the stage as KEITH TOBY, 35, a country western singer, sings his American brand of music.

Crowd goes nuts. Keith waits for the crowd to die “down.

KEITH DOBY “it. Well this is a hell of a crowd and. this sure is a hell of a-nation. Tye: Before I sing this next song I dear friend of mine and thé: winner of yesterday's Memphis 400. Please welcome the fastest.there.is and a true American: Mr. RICKY ‘Bobby!

Ricky jumps on stage. The crowd goes nuts.

© RICKY > How aged is Keith Doby!

The band kicks'vin with a country anthem that the crowd obviously knows

KEITH DCBY

THE CRY OF A NEWBORN INFANT FILLS THE HOSPITAL ROOM A TIRED, BUT PROUD MOM AND DAD LOOK ON THE DAD SAYS (SPOKEN) “SON WE’RE GONNA NAME YOU T.J. AND I HOPE YCU GROW UP STRONG DO YOUR BEST AND NEVER BACK DOWN FROM A FIGHT BUT ONE THING YOU CAN REST ASSURE

F, AS SURE AS THE RISING SUN BY BEIN’ BORN IN AMERICA, YOU’ RE ALREADY NUMBER ONE”

RICKY

NUMBER ONE BEATS THE HELL OUTTA ” NUMBER TWO,

KICKS THE CRAP OUTTA NUMBER THREE GIVES NUMBER FOUR A WEDGIE; AND MAKES NUMBER FIVE TOUCH’ “DOG DOO NUMBER SIX SWITCHES. . See, DISTRICTS

CAUSE HE’S TERRORIZED BY “ONE, THEN ONE TOOK A POLAROID OF NUMBER SEVEN’S WEINER pan PUT IT ON THE INTERNET —~"¢. MADE NUMBER EIGHT ‘AND NINE KISS IN FRONT OF THE WHOLE CLASS AT THE PEP RALLY .. -

THEN TOOK NUMBER TEN OUT INTO THE WOODS AND NO ONE WILL SPEAK OF WHAT -HAPPENED ©"

The crowd goes crazy as Rick and Keith high five.

MUSIC: “Tight Fittin Jeans” by Conway Twitty

Every DRIVER and CREW MEMBER whe’s anyone is there. The place is hopping. A few couples dance and everyone is partying.

RICKY

Hey bartender! Give me a fast ball with a twist of Lime!

KEITH DOBY Sie: on Basically the bartender winds up) =. ° and throws the shot at you as hard as he can,

RICKY one Damn! I almost had ith Give m me: another! ! : . mt

Cal Naughton pushes ehrough the ame towards Ricky grabbing him by the collar. es

: CAL NAUGHTON JR. Hey Ricky, .you pull another stunt like you..did today and I’m gonna bust. uP your face! You hear me?!

ite RICKY ‘You're right Cal. I’m real sorry. Bartender, give my friend here a fastball.

The Bartender whips a shot glass at Cal Naughton. The whoie crew cracks uv.

Music: The Conway Twitty song winds_down as a new song comes _ on: Miies Davis’s “Kind of Blue.”

The whole bar comes to 4 stand still.

Ricky stands up and throws a bottle at the jukebox. A GENTLEMAN in a stylish, racing windbreaker with slacks and sporty European racing shoes turns around. He:is DEAN: .GIRARD,

the driver from the cover of High Octane Magazine:

Ah shoot, i’m sorry, I thought that was a Mac. Davis CD on there. _--RECKY », Wait: a- minute, I know this guy! I Saw you on the cover of High

Octane! This dude’s a Formula One driver!

There’ s a grumble of disbelief from the bar.

The whole bar goes grumbles.

Ricky coes to punch Jean who dete Ty ‘blocks it, grabs Ricky -y the wrist, does a specific’ -pressure hold and slams his head onto the bar with his arm eae behind his back. All in a split second. -

JEAN rs Why would you want to hit me because i am French?

: “RICKY {face pressed against the bar) Let me go, you Formula One jazz weirdo! JEAN GIRARD

You fear what is different. Unfortunately in this world that is not so uncommon. I wiil let you go, but before I do I want you to say, “I leve crepes.”

Beat as Ricky thinks.

GLENN on Maybe just say it Ricky. .

KEITH DOBY .

You know what? The more .d’m thinking about it, just say, “I love crepes.”

" RICKY Aw man, are those those really thin .pancakes...I’ve had those. They are good. But: I’m still not gonna say it!! it's become a matter cf pride!

$2.

The Gentleman twists and breaks Ricky’s arm.

His crew and fellow drivers come to his aid.

RICKY “ I didn’t say it!! I didn’ .t say iz!!! * KEITH DOBY

You really should have.

The Bartender has a plate. ‘Of crepes.

Ricky

That’ "8 good. What is that?

‘BARTENDER .2t'sS a crepe...

A circle of drivers and crew move in on the French Gentleman. Suddenly there is a gunshot fired and Mr. Dennit steps in with a pearl-handled pistol. There is a MAN next to him in a turtleneck with a beard.

oa

RICKY . rr. Mr. Dennit, with all due respect, “~ and remember I am saying#“with all due respect,” that idea is.

dipped in shit.

MR. DENNT?” hist. Hey you don’t talk to':me ke that! You better get your head together Ricky. This go for broke’ stuff don’t play in the.long haul, you hear? You hear! LOOK AT ME WHEN 7 TALK TOO YOU! re

, RICKY. 1/m--lookin’ right at you!

: _ MR. DENNIT Now I/il "see you in Richmond with a serious attitude adjustment.

he Man with the beard goes to Jean.

There is a shocked beat.

He throws up and then faints dead away.

“CUT TO:

We see the Richmond Speedway packed with pegple. Cars are Going their qualifying runs. mending ees

. “3

Ricky is drinking a beer with ‘a: “east. on his arm while his two kids jump on a trampoline...There is‘a TV muted playing the Speed Channel in the ae tame al Carley is yelling at Ricky.

crepes! They said you asked him to break. your arm.

Kids hear this bouncing on the tramp.

BOTH KIDS

Daddy is a bunghole!...Daddy is a bunghole!!

Both kids start to cry while still jumping on the-tramp.

RICKY

I do no such thing!! Look, here’ '$ a hundred dollar bill for each of you. Stop saying that.

He hands one of them a hundred’ ‘doldar, bill as they bounce by.

RICKY bs rh Wait! Hold it. down! Shhhh!!!

Ricky sees something on the tv. and un-mutes it.

We see a Sonmilié8e)'2a%3 car passing other cars on the TV.

‘INSIDE NASCAR HOST (V.0.} And the big question in Nascar this week is, who is Jean Girard?

We see footage of Jean celebrating with a gold trophy and giving his husband a kiss.

Jean addresses camera in an interview. JEAN GIRARD

Finishing first is nothing. Excellence is all that matters.

We see Jean with a horse by his stables. oe

Jean and Gregory | are ‘tossing a stick to a German Shepherd.

y JEAN (V.0.) Gregory understands me. He is my patience. He is my wisdom. He is my love.

Gregory is blowing a whistle and making hand signals to six German Shepherds. They walk in elaborate patterns and one of them jumps over another.

Sz. Then he gives a series of short bursts on the whistle, we reveal that the dogs have formed a pyramid. GREGORY Milou! Constantine! Well done!

It’s now Gregory and Jean being interviewed. As Jean talks, Gregory rubs his shoulders.

JEAN GERRARD GREGORY °:.

America is just another (Gently singing.a,.Erench challenge for us. But we lullaby)

believe that if you do something well and with artistry, life will find its way.

The two SPEED CHANNEL ANCHORS | are speechless.

SPEED CHANNEL ANCHOR#1

Uh. ..wow. ae

SPEED , CHANNEL ANCHOR #2 Boy... that is a lot to take in. Uhhh. --:

The TV clicks cff.

An out-of-breath Hershell comes running up.

Ricky and Hershell run over to Jean’s pit station as Carley follows. Mr. Dennit, Lucius and Jean's crew are assembled. We hear the crew chattering in French. A car with a Perrier logo across the hood goes roaring by.

Jean pulls into pit row and his time seh, aE en ‘the board 232 mph.

Cal Naughton walks by with some* of fits crew members.

Ha! i RICKY Shut up Cal! MR. DENNIT.

‘Put a smile on your face Ricky. That’s your teammate. You should be

happy.

Ricky knocks over an entire tool drawer.

Ricky.

Jean approaches them as he is congratulated by the crew.

JEAN Bes. Merci...merci...Hello Ricky Bobby. ~ I am so sorry about the incident with your arm. I would be honored if you would let me sign your cast.

:. RICKY ee eo MR. DENNIT

..Son, that was tear ass driving. Well dene.

' RICKY (to his crew) Ah hell! Get my car off the

trailer!

RICKY

I wanna drive. My arm’s fine. Now get it off the trailer! Get it off!

CARLEY ‘ You are a fine man Ricky Bobby. You" are acting like a winner::

HERSHELL sae You heard the man boys! Looks: ike we're working aerSE Ald! :

His crew jumps to life as Ricky: Stares at Jean.

JEAN’ I look forward to" racing against you Nx? y RY

Ricky sits ina “Chair, " pathodically sawing off his cast. Occasionally. -he gets too close to his arm and winces in pain.

The cars are making their way onto the track. The stands are packed. Jet planes fly overhead.

Ricky’s car is in pit row. We see Carley is putting a giant Fig Newton sticker across the front of Ricky’s windshield.

Susan walks over to Ricky.

SUSAN : Here’s the aspirin you wanted Mr. Bobby. What’s on your windshield?

SUSAN © Isn’t that dangerous?

' CARLEY (~... Listen sweetheart, I know you're not the prettiest flower in the garden and you make up for it by acting ali concerned and nice but _I'm really gonna need you to shut your meuth. Okay sugar?

Ricky’s looking in through the car.

Susan is pissed and hurt and walks away.

Carley kisses Ricky and he winces in pain from his arm. RICKY

Ahhh! It’s alright. It’s still got:.~:...... a little touch of brokeness to it. rea

We hear a crackle of lagktaing 3 im, the ‘sky. Glenn, while securing a tire, looks: UP. at the clouds.

GLENN ©

Is it me or did that Lightning contain a sense of foreboding?

All of the cars have “kegun their pre-laps. Finaily the green flag waves and the cars come right towards camera and we

crane over them as they pass us by with a shockwave of sound.

Ricky Bobby is ducking down to see under the product sticker on his windshield.

We see his Spotter up above the race track with binoculars.

Jean is driving in first place. He takes a.sip from a flute of champagne. + ty :

JEAN GIRARD: Ahhh, life.

Two FANS in ane Bobby Hive are drinking beers. , _ HARDCORE FAN

Go Ricky! “Send ‘that French guy and his stoma aba to Europeland!

- SOUTHERN FAN

Say what: you want about that fereigner, but he can drive.

Ricky taps a car and passes it by an inch. He’s now behind Girard.

Ricky is trying desperate to pass Girard.

Ricky bumps into the back of Girard and tries to pass on the inside but Girard boxes him out. We see a black stag waved but Ricky ignores it.

DARRYL WALTRIP” (V.0.) - He's got winning fever bad.” Boogity Boggity, this could. ast adr yy,

Ricky is right on Jean's tail.

Ricky tries to cut the wheel to get around Jean, winces in pain from the broken arm and then loses control of the car. He rams Jean Girard sending him into the wall. Other cars hit rim, This starts a huge pile up with dozens of cars spinning out and colliding.

Then Ricky’s car gces completely air born.

GLENN

Peaches and Cream!!

The car flies over the wall, completely wipes out a hot dog stand, crashes through some aii. same

We see a half dozen fans diving ‘aimmlatox cars, Ricky’s car comes smashing through’ the wall and tears through all the video screens and out the. gther wall. One FAN, 16, watches slack-jawed.

-, FAN Wow. This. is awesome.

We see a FATHER, 45, and SON, 9, leaving the track for the parking lot.

FATHER

I gave it @ chance Son and it’s boring. They just go around in circles.

Suddenly Ricky’s car comes busting thrcugh a gate, rolls over three times and hits a cencrete barricade exploding into a huge ball of flames. Immediately a safety truck and crew is cn the scene with fire extinguishers. They pull Ricky clear and spray him.

The Son turns to his Father.

Ricky still thinks he’s on fire. He rips off his helmet and rolls around screaming in a high-pitched voices...» ;

RESCUE WORKER | ~ You’re clear! There is no Papel

Finally we are able to take in the caimage ‘on the track. EVERY SINGLE CAR IN THE RACE. — WRECKED, BECAUSE OF RICKY.

-P.A. AWCR (V.0.) Ladies and Gentlemen I regret to inform.you that today's race has ended. We apologize.

The crowd boos like crazy.

Ricky Bobby, still thinking he’s cn fire, is running around like a-maniac. We see that a network camera crew is on the scene.

die!!!

Ricky is running around like a crazy man while Rescue Workers yell to him.

Ahhhhhhhh!!!! I don’t wanna painlit Ry I’M SO DAMN AFRAID!!! Help me

Jesus!! Help me Allah and the.

Jewish God!! Help me saint

Robbins!!!

Finally some rescue workers run in‘ pie tackle Ricky.

We see an ambulance pulling out of the racetrack.

DARRYL:. WALTRIP {V.0.) There are good days..in racing and there are bad days.*Ricky Bobby Pee hac himself a bac one.

Cal Naughton ‘and ait of ga crivers watch uncomfortably. Jean Girard crosses himself ‘and averts his gaze.

: “os JEAN GIRARD Bort vayage Ricky Bobby.

The ambulance tears off sirens screaming.

From Ricky’s hazy semi-conscious POV we see a DOCTOR, 44, taiking to Carley and Lucius.

DOCTOR

Ma'am your husband's not dying. If you can just---

Ricky’s POV fades to black...

Once again from Ricky’s hazy POV oe Lucius sitting: ‘by his bedside reading to him. Pa

LUCIUS ;

.I stood in front of thé’mirrér

oat wondered why I was getting. so

lumpy and why this stupid. training

bra was so uncomfortable. So I sai

out icud, “Are yam there God? It’s me Margaret.’ Ks

We fade to black again... HAZY DISSCLVE TO:

Ricky’s very “hazy POV of Carley leaning over him.

MARN’S VOICE Hey the movie starts in a half- hour, just get him to sign it.

Fade to black...

49,

Ricky’s hazy POV of the empty room and only the sound of the heart monitor flat-lining. After a second, a crash unit comes into the room led by a panicked RESIDENT, 25.

Ricky turns to his right and Hank and Williams Jr ‘are playing with the heart monitor. a oe

here! + HANK

Look how scared the wussy. Doctor -

is! ge : RESIDENT ~

I want these kids out of here- We fade to black agains. -

Two NURSES chat by: the Nurse’s staticn.

NURSE #1 I just told him, “You choose between the surround sound or me.” And then he threw me out..

Ricky Bobby, in his hospital gown with a sling and tubes hanging off of him, walks into the hallway looking like hell.

Lucius and Mr. Dennit pull into the Hospital parking lot.

Ricky is in a wheelchair playing basketball with five cther guys in wheelchairs. Lucius and Mr. Dennit walk up with Ricky’s Doctor. ;

Ricky is playing really aggressively. He slams his chair into another guy’s chair-and rips.the ball away from him.

i. RICKY You: snooze you lose!!

Ricky falls” over. in ‘hte wheelchair. He crawls back to it on all fours: Elgavky, he: can walk.

"PLAYER #2 Hey! You just used your legs!!

PLAYER #2 This guy’s a fake!!

A Player whips the ball at him.

Ricky wheels over to Lucius and Mr. Dennit.

his

Ricky, Lucius and Mr. Dennit sit in the visitor’s room with a TV playing in the background.

RICKY

I gave that up. I’m through lying te myself. I’ve decided to face facts. I just bought myself a hundred thousand dollar handicapped accessible van. I’m having ramps Set and a stair elevator put in the ° house. I even told Carley, if she” ~

needs to find comfort Sie i oe:

man, she can.. :

LUCIUS .7: . ; Mr. Dennit, we gotta. “tell. him.

_ RICKY What did:you just say?

‘LUCIUS ‘Ke’s telling the truth Ricky. It’s all in your head.

- RICKY You sick sons of bitches. You come in here walking on two legs all fat ane cocky and telling me it’s in my head. You wanna know what’s in my head? What’s in my head is knowing that I'll never be able to feel the pleasure of a woman!! Or that I‘’1l rever do a windmill slam cunk again!

o2.

He grabs a steak knife from a nearby lunch tray. RICKY at You wanna see what I am?:..

Ricky stabs his lec with the knife. Immediately he jumps out of the chair screaming in pain, running around the room.

Ricky, Mr. Dennit and ‘Lucius walk through the Garden.

ieee -: RICKY

So: anyway, I’m sorry and I don’t

hope: your boys lose their legs. (and then)

So what’s been going on since I’ve

been gone?

He pats him on the back and walks off.

Lucius motions to a family walking through the gazden. The Dad and two sons all wear Jean Girard BRAELE *s

We see Girard dueling Cal Naughton . ire ‘@own, ‘the straightaway of the last lap. F : Ray DARRYLE WALTRIP (V.0. ) Jean Girard and Cal Naughton Jr are head down thé straight away and Naughton: has the inside!! Girard feints to the outside and Naughton bites on it: giving Girard the aeeery eeere sian! Girard wins!!

MUSIC: "Connie Moi” me, Edith Piaff

MONTAGE: IMAGES OF JEAN'S SUCCESS:1} Jean finishing three races first in quick succession with checkered flags flying 2) Shots of Jean-inside his car reading a short story or finisning an impressionist painting on a small canvas 3)The cover of GQ with Jean looking stylish and the headline “The French Revolution” 4) A concession stand at a race track with “Hot Dogs 2.50, Hamburgers 3.50” posted. The Vender puts up a handwritten sign “Sscargot 4.50” 5) Jean wins a race and does burn outs in the infield. When he’s done we see he’s spelled “I love you Gregory” in perfect cursive in the grass. 6) We see his name number one in the points standings in an ESPN News graphic.

On the lower third crawl we see a story flash by: “RICKY BOBBY TC DRIVE AGAIN. WILL TEST DRIVE IN CHARLOTT& FOR THE PRESS.”

MUSIC: Out

We see 30 Reporters in the stands of a test track. Mr. Dennit, Carley, Susan and Lucius all stand by the side of the track. Ricky is in his car while Glenn and Hershell give ita final once over. 7

MR. DENNIT son Do you think he’s ready for this? *:

LUCIUS: How you feeling Ricky?

Ricky gives a thumbs up.

Ricky pulls ‘out and accelerates out onto the track. MUSIC: TRIUMPHANT RETURN

MUSIC: OUT

We see Ricky actually slows down going into the banked turn.

LUCIUS

{into his headset) Ricky you actually slowed down! Son you’ re in danger of stalling the engines) 0 tay RICKY Now I’m gonna open it up. See what this baby's really got. ee

The engine accelerates ever so siightly.

LUCIUS a Ricky, you just cracked, enteeg- five.

Ricky’:

This is exhilarating! ! I’m going to bring ‘it in! I’m afraid the engine might blow!

Ricky pulls into the pits.

fast...so fast...

We see that the Reporters are ciearing out. Susan comes back with a tray of coffee.

She knocks the coffee out of Susan’s hands.

We see Hershell and Glenn helping Ricky away seg the car.

MUSIC: “It Was Almost Like a Song” by Ronnie Milsap.,

GLENN Py Tears aren’t something to be feared Lucius. They’ re a healing. balm,

LUCIUS | " Man, you are one creepy. qactie® dude. ; ‘

Ricky is ina T-shirt and sweat pants. He’s drinking tea with Mr. Dennit seated ecross from him. It’s over.

“RICKY These cars:go fast don’t they? I don’t remember them going that fast...

; MR. DENNIT Ricky you need a break. A long break. We’ve made the decision to deactivate the 28 car for awhile.

Ricky gets out of his 4X4 and heads towards the front door.

MUSIC: The sad Ronnie Milsap song swells up again.

Ricky walks into his living room in his street clothes with his duffle bag. His wife Carley, two sons and his father-in- law are in the living room, they are eating dinner on. TV trays in front of the TV, laughing and talking.’ When’ Ricky walks in they stop. Chip turns off the TV. ;

Awkward beat es everyone continues

}. stare at him.

Well isn’t anyone gonfia. say. anything to me?.:’ NN

JOHN DALY comes out of the kitchen “in Ricky’s robe, holding a big platter of pork chops...

«JOHN DALY.” Who’ s ‘ready. for more pork chops? Oh hey. Ricky. --

a ‘RICKY .What-the, hell is Jchn Daly doing in ‘my, -house?.Wearin’ my robe? Eatin’ my perk chops?

Carley holds up a thick document.

{MORB}

RICKY

So that’s it. (heavy sigh) Alright then. What about the boys?.. .

Hank and Williams Jr look at carley. and PRLeKy:

RICKY" I guess so.

. WILLIAMS JR. We’1l go with Daddy.

Long shot of Ricky’s SUV as it drives down the rainy highway. Ricky drives very slowly and tentatively with his hazards on. Cars pass him like crazy.

DISSOLVE TOC:

MUSIC: Ronnie Milsap song fades out.

Ricky, with two pieces of luggage anc the boys in tow, knecks on a door. Lucy, Ricky's Mom, opens the door.

RICKY

Mom. (pained half beat) I got nowhere to go...

The anchors of Speed Week are in the. middle ef a show. SPEED WEEK ANCHOR #1, Well, all of the .taik=lately in Nascar is about “the emergence of Jean Girard as the circuit’s best driver. ; i - SPEED WEEK ANCHOR #2 It certainly is Pete. Jean has won four of his’ last five races...

Jean is holding up'a gold trophy while the crowd cheers him.

‘i SPEED WEEK ANCHOR #1 (V.0O.) ..and is even bringing a new kind of fan to Nascar.

We see a PREPFY COUPLE in the stands eating wine and cheese. The HUSBAND smokes a pipe and the WIFE has a sweater tied around her neck.

The Hardcore Fan from earlier gives them a Bud. He also has a

sweater tied around his neck.

SPEED WEEK ANCHOR #2 {(V.C.} But the reaction of Jean’s fellow drivers hasn’t been so warm.

Cal Naughton Jr is being interviewed.

CAL NAUGHTON ‘IRS Well that’s cause you’ re “quoting me out of context.

, INTERVIEWER You’ re-on camera Cal. I’m not quoting, you. Say what you want.

“| SPEED WEEK ANCHOR #1 Well anyway you slice it, it’s clear. that Jean Girard is the man right now. And unless there’s 2 driver out there who can beat him, his reign could last for quite awhile.

Ricky is driving nervously with a stack of pizzas on his passenger side seat and a Dominos sign on top of his car.

As he tries to read an address, he clips a parked car, ripping the fender off.

Immediately we see flashing red lights of a police car behind him. Ricky pulls over. The OFFICER writes him a ticket.

Ricky is backing out of his spot in front of the pizza place. He backs into a shopping cart being pushed by a HOUSEWIFE, sending it flying out of frame.

The OFFICER from before finishes giving = ticket.

RICKY . et No sir, I’m not. Bat T promise it won’t happen ad

Ricky then backs anto the: police officer knocking him into the air.

Ricky hands him his license in Slo. Mo.

Ricky steps onto the bus holding three large pizzas, puts tckens into the counter and takes a seat. No one really locks at him, except for one passenger.

CUT TOC:

Ricky comes riding up to his house on a kid’s BMX bike with a pizza on the back. There’s a limo parked in front of the house. Cal Naughton Jr. gets out.

many a night.

RICKY - ~* : ¥ No Cal, I didn’ t: aio’: that.

CAL NAUGHTON “dr. (his voice’ ‘gets high pitched) oom Well, it’s good you''didn’ t know it because. I just made it up. It’s a lie, a fun lie. ; I like to teil fun lies so that we can have a laugh.

ae RICKY ‘Why is your voice gettin’ all high? : CAL NAUGHTON JR. (back to normal) Here’s the deal Ricky: that French bastard is ruining our sport. You

get back on the track and together we can take him out.

Ricky starts to walk away.

{MORE)

Cal spits on the ground.

Ricky sheepishly walks back to the house...a broken man. Naughton, looking pissed off, makes his way back to the lime only to see the LIMO DRIVER in the middle of the street urinating.

Lucy was watching the exchange petiléen Ricky and Cal through the front window.

Ricky rings the bell ona | dingy-looking motel room. After a beat an OLDER MAN, 61, with a scraggly beard in his boxers opens the door. He’s sipping from a long neck.

“RICKY _That’1l be eléven ninety-three.

| Ss QLDER MAN Hold on. Let me find my damn wallet. Come on in.

The man looks through the mess of his room while Ricky still stands at the door.

OLDER MAN {CONT'D} Either close the door or come in! I got weed in here cowboy!

Ricky steps in and closes the door.

Ricky sees

He continu

OLDER MAN

I always thought a real Nascar driver would rather die than ride a bus.

RICKY F: Hey stop calling me cowboy!

that he’s got three uneatén: pizzas on the table.

RICKY *"" You know you got three uriéaten pizzas just sittin’ here.

: = RICKY, tryin! to gee me? Why?

. OLDER MAN cause I'm your daddy. That’s why.

es 64) Lodk for his wallet.

RICKY

“What'd you say?

Ricky steps right at him and punches him in the jaw. He falls

back into

a bureau.

OLDER MAN {CONT’D) Okay. So are we straight now?

Ricky leaves as his Father yells after him.

Ricky and Lucy are in the kitchen. Ricky is emotional and furious. n :

RICKY. "3 CE I can’t believe it!! This-“is the last thing I need now! -How could he have found me!!?-

aa te,

A dog begins to bark in the ‘distance.

Hank and Williams Jr enter wiping sleep out of their eyes.

There is a light knock at the back door. It is Ricky’s Dad now in a Member’s Only jacket and white T-shirt.

REESE BOBBY

Hey Lucy.

RICKY 2

Get the hell out of my home:

The OLD MAN next door leans; out his window and yells. ELDERLY ‘MAN (0.C.)

You people shut the hell up! I got a wife in an oxygen tent trying to

sleep!

; ‘HANK Go shave your balls you dusty old fart! 1!

More dogs begin to bark in the neighborhood.

REESE BOBBY

“You wanna race again. Just admit - 3

RickyBobby is silent....but the dogs keep barking.

says i won the Daytona 500. They can’t never take that away from me!

REESE BOBBY hte + 24 Look, Ricky... I’m fifty-nine years: oo old and all I got to my name is a car and a duffle bag full of ~.. underwear and sweet, stinky weed .” need this. I screwed up raising he Toa as a boy, let me at lease ep you as a man. ,

Everyone goes silent, even the. dogs, as they wait for Ricky’s response. ’ ‘ Bors =e

REESE BOBBY “tcoNT” D) Please.... bee me Paes you.

Do it Dad. Get your: Balls back. Go eee agains

Lo! RICKY Are you ore ‘sure?

“WILLIAMS JR. suke as a pre to the top of shit mountain.

Alright Dickweed, so what’s the plan?

Ricky punches his Dad in the jaw.

Ricky gets in the car. He hears a terrible gréwi-and turns around to see a COUGAR IN THE BACK::SEAT. Immediately Ricky jumps out of the car and slams the door.

RICKY oh aS What the hell!! Ahhh ttt There” s a goddamn cougar. ain the eaklit

7 RICKY “That's just stupid! I cculd’ve been killed. Where’d you get that thing?

Beat as Ricky mulls this over. He takes a couple really deep breaths.

Ricky opens the door and immediately the cougar leaps on top of him, knocking him to the ground, mauling him.

RICKY m AWWWW!! He’s on me!!! He’s gonna .osnse. eat me!! nl

om - cUT TO:

Lucy is washing dishes. _ Ricky enters Looking like hell.

LUEY?::. Hey 2 ae de So how’ 4. lt go?

. RICKY He’s a ¢razy dirtbag and I’m pretty sure I’m wasting my time. Where’ re

the Se. Tey’ re at Bible study at my

church.

We, see Hank and Williams Jr go running by acress the back yard.

Lucy What in tarnation?

Lucy flies out the door. The two boys have gotten a hold of Lucy’s garden hose and are spraying it through the neighbor’s open window. We hear the screams of the Elderly Man inside the house.

Le Now Mama-

LUGY*. No Ricky!.No! i wid net have my grandchildren behaving like filthy raccoons! From now on you children wili obey the rules. And if ycu do not obey the rules, you will pay the price! Understood?

7 - HANK Sorry Granny, you’re shit out of luck. .

WILLIAMS JR.

.We do what we want. Lightning fast, both of their faces get slapped. 7 HANK (beat of awe)

You're going to break us like a wild horse, aren’t you?

Ricky and his dad are standing by Ricky’s car on a dirt oval track,

REESE BOBBY

bhs

So all I want you to do today is to

go around this track once.

Ricky gets into the car.

I want

you to literally take all day to do

one lap.

REESE BOBBY

I want you to go as slow:as you... can. Like you're making 16 e to ee Reba McEntire and you wanna'savor -

it.

RICKY.

How’s this genna help me get over

the fear?

: REESE "BOBBY.

This ain't about fear, this is about ‘teaching you that the pedal to the metal ein't all there is.

Ricky pulls hee ite yah he can.

. RICKY Like this?

REESE BOBBY

Slewer! You should know every inch of Reba by the time you’re done. With everything good in life you gotta go slow before you can go

fast. MUSIC CUE: Sultry Reba McEntire song.

TIME LAPSE: the sun gcing up and then see Ricky crawl around the track at a

It’s dark as Ricky crosses the finish collapses.

Starting to fall. We snail’s pace.

line. He gets out and

cee

Hank and Williams Jr. are wearing orange mesh vests while cleaning up trash off the side of the highway. tucy waits in her car.

Ricky is behind the wheel’ Gath a blindfold on. His dad is next to him in the passenger seati

This is Crazy. I can’t see.

Ricky inhales deeply.

Ricky puts the car into drive and proceeds to wreck into every parked car and tear across every lawn on the Street. It ends with the car crashing intc someone's house.

mee

Lucy is reading to Hank and Williams Jr. They are asking her questions. We see she is reading them Faulkner’s The Bear.

at the passing of the old South?

Ricky is asleep ina hammock.° Suddenly a bucket of water is thrown onto Ricky's face. He awakes with a start te find his dad with a beer in:hand standing over him.

‘RICKY _Bh! "REESE BOBBY Where’ @ stock car racing come from?

His dad throws another bucket of water on him.

RICKY’S DAD Hew’d stock car racing get its Start?

74,

His Dad throws another bucket of water on him.

RICKY oa Ah! If I was right why’d you throw «2; ---, another bucket on me?

We hear sirens in the distances:

REESE -BOBBY*: So I taped a kilo of cocaine boys in blue. The..way I figure i you got. two minutes: before they show up and you do five to ten. Yesterday we went slow. Today we go fast. “4 :

Ricky flies out ‘of the: hammeck and into the front yard where his car is..sitting., It’s aiready running.

- RICKY You sick crazy old-

We'.can see the cop cars dewn the street. Ricky has no choice. He jumps in the car and tears off.

Reese watches as Ricky drives off. Hank and Williams Jr come up to him.

Ricky is tearing ass onto the freeway with three cod cars behind him. He is driving very fast and very skillfully to get away.

He hits a U-turn in the middle of the freeway: ‘and turns off an exit losing the cops completely. He! s really*driving again. ve

We see a hand reaching wnelex the: ‘car. ‘It finds something. RICKY: _ I gotcha.

Ricky unwraps the package to reveal a bag of Lucky Charms

cereal, with a-note in it. It reads, “FEELS GOOD GOING FAST,

DOESN'T IT? BY THE WAY, DCK’T TRY AND SNORT THESE LUCKY CHARMS.”

MUSIC: Steve Earle’s “I Feel Alright Now” kicks in.

Ricky is driving his Dad’s car with the live cougar seated next to him. Ricky icoks confident and at ease, so does the cougar.

Lucy has Hank and Williams Jr doing Tai Chi.

Ricky drives by a kid sitting on the curb. He stops and when he pulls away the kid now has Ricky’s BMX bike.

Hank and Williams Jr are in a large choir singing perfectly with angelic looks on their faces while Lucy watches on.

We see a sign that says Department of Motor Vehicles with a white line and a starting point for the drivers test. No car is there. Then after a beat we hear. screeching tires and Ricky blows into frame dcing a sideways turn into a screaming stop.

RICKY

ea test.

We see a TERRIFIED OFFICER next to: Ricky in the car with a clirboard. RT Se

sastie te eae Mr. Bebby- 2s. you are magnificent.

The cougar pops up ‘from the back and growls.

og TERRIFIED OFFICER

; RICKY Down=Karen! Down!

There’s a quick flash of Ricky getting his picture taken. He gives a wink.

MUSIC: OUT

Ricky and Reese are driving home.

ths

Close Up of a WAITRESS stepping into frame.

We see Lucy, Susan, Ricky, Hank, giao Jr. sitting at a table.

WAITRESS 1 Sib My name is Delly and I’ ti. be your server tonight. 3

_. DOLLY Why thank you,

The table chuckles pleasantly.

‘ WAITRESS Well: don’t you worry. I‘ll take care of you.

CLOSE UPS OF FOOD BEING PUT IN FRONT OF THE FAMILY - TWENTY MINUTES LATER

Ricky bows his head to say grace.

LUCY * That was beautiful. Except for she part about Carley, which was inappropriate,

What a lovely meal. ap

Waitress pops by again.

WAITRESS | How? Ss every one over here?

73's

REESE BOBBY ae Why don’t you tell us what” ‘you’ re really going to do-Dolly! You're going to go in the back;.. smoke some reefer with the: dishwashers and come back out here and act like a dirty Bosker

She leaves in tears.

z RICKY Dad. why’ are you-.doing this?! We’ve had: fa “Geer two weeks!!

You couldn’t handle it could you Reese? Things just got too good.

Manager. walks up with crying waitress. MANAGER

Folks I’m Jim Bohampton, the manager. Is there a problem?

WAITRESS “: Mr. Bohampton I did no such thing! nyjo.00 0s RICKY Look I apologize for this old: man- REESE BOBBY " ener |

» I will never back down from my statement! eas

Reese Bobby takes a sip from.a can of beer between his legs.

MANAGER on Sir you are not allowed. to teve that in here. I’m. ee to have to ask you to leave:.

Four ‘muscular members of the Applebee’s staff are throwing Reese Bobby out the front door. Ricky and the family are trying to calm the situation.

They throw him Gown into the parking lot. Reese Bobby gets up and storms off.

Ricky starts to chase after him.

They’ ve stopped in the middle cf the road. Cars? ‘are going by

them with their headlights on.

REESE meen

up. I don’t know hat. organ or bone people have that’ makes -them act right, but r., was horn without zt.

ack As

. “RICKY ‘s Arhh!- ‘Don’ t-you get it? All those races I'won. t<t was all for you. I

didit Just like you told me: If

-you ain't first, you’re last.

: REESE BOBBY What’ re you talking about?

Reese starts to walk off down the road.

You wanna know why? Cause I wasn’ i "8 as good as you. Catch yeu ‘acer Tne cowboy.

“eee

Reese walks off leaving Ricky een in: the middle of the road with motorists honking their ‘horns and ‘Yelling at Ricky.

Ricky is laying in his childhood race car bed surrounded by posters of great drivers trom the early eighties. His Mom walks in.

, ‘LUCY Hey Ricky. I made you some biscuits and grape soda. I thought it’d help you relax.

LUCY

No reascn to race? Ricky let me show you something...

Lucy stands by the mantle. There are some little trophies and certificates on it.

LUCY ie ae Then go find out. And don’ t nee him for your Dad or Car léy.. or the sponscrs or because he’s°* French. Beat him for you.

And if I lose? ~* :

You listen to me’ Ricky. I’m the one who taught you to drive stick shift. I’m the one who tcok ycu to those go cart tracks and bought you your first. car. I raised you! I know what you can do! Now you just

.. race.good and iet the winnin’ and

"“slosin’ fall where it may!

We see a strip club off of a dirt road with a sign that reads, “SMOKEY’S HOUSE OF ASS - LIVE GIRLS NUDE, WED. FAMILY NIGHT.”

We hear the voice of Lucius, Ricky’s former. crew ceiety as we see the stage.

Jade or as I call L Remy Hot Tofu!

We see an Asian stripper come onto “the stage. There are seven drunks in the audience. Thé song “Panama” by Van Halen kicks in. From across the kc ee seeS Ricky walk in.

* LOCUS “ow. Well onl be grilled and served with hash browns! Ricky Bobby as I ek and. breath:

. RECKy

~..I swear..to God, if you were twenty ‘years old; blonde and a woman, I’d kiss, you!

They laugh. . RICKY But you're not. Yeu’re a fifty-year- old, bald black man. They hug. LUCIUS (laughing)

And you are a stupid cracker! And I mean that! How you been old friend?

Ricky and Lucius are having drinks at a table. During the entire length of their conversation, a stripper’s bikini clad rump is positioned in between them and comes in and out of frame. They never acknowledge this in any way.

I wanna race again Lucius. Lucius gets up and offers his hand.

it was good seeing you Ricky.

RICKY = 2 I’m not foolin' Lueius. I got. my nerve back. Pe ts -

smart :..

; RICKY I’ve chanced Lucius. I'll listen to you. Ineed this. De you hear me? I

need this, for me. Beat as Lucius locks into Ricky's eyes.

Lucius points to the ass that’s shaking between them. We hear DIANE’S vcice from behind her shaking rump.

LUCIUS

Put your clothes on baby. It looks like we’re going to Talladega.

MUSIC: AWE INSPIRING

We pan over a road on a hill and see the Talladega Speedway off in the distance. Ricky’s trailer with car. in L tee

a

We see Ricky squinting his eyes andl'taxing in the mammoth speedway.

RICKY aeere) , Talladega... somehow ‘ait “Higays comes down to you...

Ricky and his newly réassembled team are unloading their car from the back eae id trailer. It’s covered with a tarp.

a HERSHELL , Sure. ig good to be back Ricky. ‘Working at the Midas Muffler is a far ery from all this.

They all laugh. RICKY And once I get Carley back, it all be perfect.

Awkwerd silence. Someone ccughs.

Ricky is then handed a cup of coffee. It’s Susan.

The car is off the truck,

Hershell pulls the cover off the car revealing hs new sponsors: RAVEN THONGS FOR MEN; JIM PRIDEWORTHY, ATTORNEY AT LAW; FISHER PRICE GAS STATION PLAYSET; THE ‘HULLMONT HIGH SCHOOL SKI CLUB; CATWOMAN ON.DVD and DR..,.LANE’S BATH SALTS FOR MENOPAUSE AND RACCOON BITES...

be a joke. «+ etc,

SUSAN

Hey! Ricky has worked his ass off

. to put.this together! What did you all signup for? Because I thought it’ was ail about racing! Yes, these are mangy sponsors but guess what? Their money's green like everyone else’s. Besides, it’s what inside that takes you to Victory Lane...and if these stickers ain’t pretty enough for you, then why den’t you go back to working at the Pep Boys for six bucks an hour!!!

They start to peek at the engine.

SUSAN

Hope I didn’t say too much.

Susan blushes as Lucius lifts the hood to reveal the engine. It’s a wreck. Some pieces are missing and it’s a bit rusted.

A wise man cnce said “Adversity is just opportunity with a bad haircut.”

LUCIUS a . This is difficult for me ta. say, but I agree with Ghenn. Let’ s: ‘gat to work. ie

Ricky starts to waik away.

SUSAN | Where’ re. you going: psehys

. RICKY I'm gonna go let Jean Girard know that I’m coming for him.

CUT FO:

Jean Girard, an ASIAN MAN in a white suit and two GORGEOUS MODELS all recline cn a large, white blanket eating gourmet cheese and fruits while drinking wine. Ricky walks up as they just finish their conversation. He’s being escorted by Jean's fashionable perscnal ASSISTANT, who is dressed like a bellhop at the Chateau Marmont.

Everyene laughs realiy hard.

We see Gregory way off in the distance training. his shepherds with intricete whistles and hand i a aaa

RICKY © ‘ Honestly I don’t know what a stripend of Busk: is.

Ricky is handed what looks like a massive conch snell with an ear of corn sticking out of it. He starts to try and put his mouth on it, thinks better of it and then just holds it.

They walk

off.

a .

Tres bien Ricky enews Tres bien. (and then}: Do you know the reason I came to America? . RICKY Money, fame, the giant water parks... the.same reasons everyone

. comes “to America?

. JEAN GIRARD No.'-I came here, for you to beat

me -

JEAN GIRARD

My husband Gregory and I, wish only to retire and train dogs in Stockholm. But before I can do that I must be Gefeated by a driver who is truly better than I am. You are the ene Ricky Bobby. You can defeat me.

We hear Gregory's whistle in the distance as the Gexmay

RICKY : ee Those are fine dogs. I'm.not going to argue with you. iy :

JEAN GIRARD . : But make no mistake* ‘about it, “inuch like me, those animals will turn into vicious killers when the proper command is. given:.For me, it is the start: flag. For them, it is a randomly chosen: command word.

: RICKY Sc like) if you say “fire hydrant” they mighh go crazy?

nic ». JEAN GIRARD "How" “did: “you know that word?! I ask Yen how ‘did you know that word?!

In an instant ‘we see the dogs stop, turn, snarl and break out into a full speed gallop.

We see the dogs, barking madly, running directly for Ricky.

The dogs are getting ak ies “They, are.going to eat Ricky Bobby. ae ie se

JEAN "GIRARD on Rhin-a-cer-rey,..it is French for rhinoceros. 7 * =

The dogs are still coming.

- JEAN GIRARD You must “do the correct pronouncement. Rhin-os-~-se-rey.

The dogs are really close.

The dogs go to leap on him to attack.

Instantly the dogs become like puppies.

JEAN GIRARD = Yes you will Rack¥: ‘Robby. Yes you will. "She

Ricky and his sons are watching. TV on the foldout bed. It is the Speed Channel.

; _ HOST -OF SPEED WEEK Of coursé. everyone knows the favorite tdémorrow for the Talladega 500 is-Jean Girard. He has simply dominated. this season. But there ére, also several smaller stories floating around this race and one of them is the return of Ricky Bobby, who disappeared from the Circuit aimost six months ago.

Ricky turns off the TV with the remote.

RICKY tinge Man your Granny did a good job with: 2H, you beys. "

He turns out the lights and they get ea: ae

WILLIAMS _ Yeah daddy, win.

The massive crowd is: filling up the stands as the cars are wheeled oyt onto the track. :

nee FOX ANNOUNCER (V.0-.) Ladies and Gentlemen, pull up a chair, drop the kids off with their aunt and take the phone off the hook, becéuse it is race day here at the Talladega Speedway!

Ricky and his team are gathered around the car by pit row. The team looks exhausted.

Ricky pops the hood revealing a gleaming, impressive engine.

The crew just stares at him, awkwardly. Someone coughs.

All the drivers and their crews stand by their cars. Keith Deby finishes the natiénal- ;anthem.

, KEITH DOBY .THE: LAND. OF THE FREE AND THE: HOME OF. THE BRAVE SO GO HOME YOU LIBERAL HIPFY TERRORIST tee

A Nascar “Official ‘once again runs over to Keith.

Ricky ‘starts to walk back to pit row when Cariey comes up.

Cal Naughton walks up.

They’ re holding each other.

CAL SAUGHEEE JR:

with the keys in: ‘it,’ ‘I take , it for a spin. You have- a good, ace, you hear?

Ricky just stares as eisiye walk ott with each other’s hands in

their back POERELS

Susan comes up, grabs him by the arm and pulls him arm.

sy the

OF.

We see Ricky behind the wheel of his car. uss engine, revs to life. lg

1. Jean Girard looks into his rear view mirror and makes eye contact with Ricky. They <nod.

2. The green flag waves and the cars explode with speed. 3. SLOW MOTION: The crowd. cheers.

4. Two cars vipe gue 72a

5. Cal Naughton Jxtaps the back bumper of Girard’s car.

6. SLOW MOTION: Ricky swerves for a second and then regains control.

7. SLOW MOTION: Lucius yelling.

8, We see the Spotter with binoculers finishing a4 cigarette high up over the track.

9. SLOW MOTION: A car goes off the wall. Ricky dodges the wreck expertly.

10. SLOW MOTION: Ricky’s sons and his Mom cheer him on.

11. Ricky passes several cars. His face is pouring with sweat.

12. Ricky pulls in for a pit stop. His crew performs expertly. He high fives Hershell on his way out.

13. Close up of Ricky's wheels turning and screeching. MONTAGE ENDS: MUSIC OUT

TV COVERAGE - FOX::.

We see the race coveted | on TV with announcers and graphics. “POX ANCR #1

Jean Girard, driving from the pole,

is‘out to a big lead.

FOX ANCR #2 As you know he’s been doing that ‘all year. Earlier today we asked him what has been his secret to success.

TV COVERAGE - NBC

FOX ANCR #1 I’1ll be honest, a few months ago that would have weirded me out, but at a certain point you just have - ‘tO... commend them for having a loving 4 relationship. Se

FOX ANNOUNCER 42° I’m still a bit weizded out by it but darnnit, that guy | ‘Can :xrace.

FOX ANCR #1 Now. let’s take a look at Ricky Bobby in the number 28 car.

We see the camera from over Ricky’s shoulder showing the track and cars around him. Ricky leans in ane looks at the

camera.

ANCR #1 Bey, he should really keep his eyes on the road. That is dangerous.

RICKY

I wanna say hi to my boys, Hank and Williams Jr. How you doin’ fellas?

Lucius, furious, speaks to Ricky on the headset.

We see Ricky Bobby start to pass some cars.

FOX ANCR #1 Ricky Bobby in the Thongs for Men car is making a big move. He’s. moved up from twenty-sixth to ~~):. twelfth place. And now let’s go to “?.. John Hannafin, who’s in the stands with a country music legend.

JOHN HANNAFIN is in the stands sateoumane by beer drinking fans.

a es Thank you Sean. I’ vé got country music. star. prey Rogers here with me,

We see a HALF ASIAN OLDER MAN with a beard and a cowboy hat seated inthe stands. At best he vaguely looks like a half- Asian version ‘of Kenny Rogers.

FOX ANCR #1 (0.C.} John, that’s not Kenny Rogers-

FOX ANCR #1 (0.C.) John, that’s not-

JOHN HANNAFIN

This is John Hannafin here with Kenny Rogers. Back to you Sean.

We see Jean Girard extending his lead.

FOX ANCR #1 That ef course, was not Kenny Rogers. But meanwhile Jean Girard has extended his lead. He’s got two cars on his tail, Cal Naughton Jr’ and Ricky Bobby who: has made a big meve to come up from, twelfth place

to third.

Cal Naughton is Reyang. desperately to pass Jean.

He’s driving next. to Cal aiso trying to pass Jean.

a - LUCIUS (V.0.} Ricky, I got Cal Naughten wanting to talk directly te you.

Cal taps Jean's bumper and Jean fishtails slightly, amie doesn’t do anything.

CAL NAUGHTON JR. Ss What’ re you doing Ricky? Finish him off!!

CAL NAUGHTON © :.: Here’s the deal. You:help me™ “finish him off and I’1l.give-you. Satame ge back. Now let’s: ‘do this Ricky... for America! -

RICKY" That’s not American, that’s

cheating. And Americans only cheat on their taxes.

Ricky gives Cal a tap and he spins out into the infield. oo : FOX ANNOUNCER #1 Qh my God! Ricky Bobby just spun Cal Naughton out! FOX ANNOUNCER #2 It looked like Ricky wanted to play that pass squeaky clean! That’s not the Ricky Bokby I know.

The cauticn flag comes out.

Lucius paces with his headset on.

HERSHEL

Now it’s just Girard and Ricky.

Wealthy sponsors eat finger foods and watch pe the corporate box. Mr. Dennit with his yenng. Wife drinks a

cocktail and watches.

MR. DENNIT : Come on Jean! You can take him,

Lucy, Hank and Williams ax? watch 1 -race from the roof of

the trailer, sitting on Lawn chairs.

LUCY: : That’s my: boy!

Ticket are is talking te an unseen figure at the window. me: “ TICKET TAKER

I ‘Just need to see some ID sir if

I’m’ going to give you these

tickets.

We see a hand slide an ID under the window, the driver's license picture is Reese Bobby. He's winking in the photo just like Ricky did in his.

The restart flag is waved and the pace car peels away.

FOX ANCR #1 Very surprising to see Ricky Bopby turn down that assist from Cal Naughton.

(MORE)

104,

FOX ANCR #1 (cont'd) Because if there’s one thing Ricky Bobby is known for, it’s winning at all costs.

Ricky in an interview limbo talks to camera.

RICKY

I've always been a risk taker. And because it rhymes, I'm also a bit of a heartbreaker. You see what I did, risk taker...heartbreaker? =: It’s fun to do that with words.

{He listens to an off

camera question) } Why am I a risk taker? I think. ‘iths ingrained in all Americans to take” risks. I mean if we didn*:t say * “hey, horses suck, let's. drive a: car” then we wouldn’t be here. Or if we didn’t go, “fey, I like cold cuts and crackers but ‘why.can’t I have them all together in “one convenient package,” then we wouldn’t have. Lunchables.

NBC COVERAGE - CONTINUOUS

; FOX ANCR #1 Couldn’t agree® with Ricky more. -Lunchables and cars, God bless this “ great nation.

FOX ANCR #2 Speaking of America, let’s go back to our John Hannifan who’s with an American icon, Bruce Willis.

John Hannifan is standing in the stands with a burly WOMAN WITH GLASSES.

FOX ANCR #1 Come on John! Pay attention!

FOX ANNOUNCER#2 ttt, Things have heated up as Girard is boxing out Bobby for the lead!

RICKY: , Do I have room te pass- Girard on the inside? _ ‘

; SPOTTER: (V.0.) That’s.a negative Ricky. Very slim squeeze. Ali. you have is the outs: de: . “RICKY

Tf L take the outside I’m gonna lose the. damn race!!

: P.A. ANCR #1 Ladiés and gentlemen this is the final lap!!

Girard is still boxing Ricky out of the inside.

Beat as Ricky mulis this over.

Ricky pulls to the outside for the final straight away.

FCX ANNOUNCER#1 I can’t believe it! Ricky Bobby went outside!

Ricky grabs the outside and punches it hard: -

RICKY om Tighten your seat belt baby Jesus! THEY BOTH CROSS THE FINISH LINE, AT THE SAME TIME. FOX ANNOUNCER #2 ©. That was one of the best outside passes in the last thirty years.

- FOX ANNOUNCER #1 I still can’t tell who won!

QUICK CUTS ALL OVER THE TRACK:

~ LUCIUS What's going on?!

FOX ANCR #1 There is a strange quiet over the track... no cne is sure who’s first.

FOX ANCR #42

The video replay is no help. It is toc close to call. They’re gonna have to go to the phcto.

We see Video Replay. It is impossible to tell.

Ricky gets out of his car and rips off his helmet, while down pit row, Jean does the same thing.

Susan runs up to him.

RICKY

i almest don’t care if I won. But seriously, did I win? ae

We see a PHOTO TECH developing.a photo in the chemical pan. As it comes into focus we see'that:the cars are dead even.

we

reviewing several photographs and the video. replay, it has been cetermined.that the race is a4

_ petfect tie,

The crowd gees crazy with boos and cheers. FOX ANNOUNCER #1

This is the only tie in the history of Nascar.

Ricky’s crew throws down their helmets.

Jean comes up to Ricky looking sad.

JEAN GIRARD ? Please Ricky... I want to go to Stockholm with Gregory...you know?

Ricky turns to Lucius, Susan and his crew.

Jean and Ricky both put on their helmets and Jump an their cars. Ze FOX ANCR #1

Well it looks like Jean Girard. and

Ricky are taking a dual victory”. Js lap. How nice is that.

FOX ANNOUNCER’ “W2. I don’t think so Ted. It “Looks like they’ re going to race.

Ricky and Jean puil up’ ‘hext.to each other.

RICKY ~ One tap. | Foy alt the marbles? JEAN" “GIRARD tt. is, goods:

~ and then) ‘I'm’ going te beat you.

FOX ANNOUNCER #1 They are going to race! Ricky just held up one finger! They’ re goina one lap for the whole enchilada!

Both cars rev on the start line. Gregory comes out holding a red scarf and stands between the cars. He raises his arm and drops the scarf and both cars tear off the line.

FOX ANCR #1 (V.0.) This is highly illegal but if you change the channel you are a mocn calf fool!

Ricky and Jean are neck and neck. Ricky takes the inside and Jean darts around him taking it back. They bump fenders. Jean takes the lead.

The crowd is going insane.

around the turn. He gets distracted for a split’ “setond.

In that second he ioses control of: ‘the car and ‘bumps into Jean wrecking them both. The cars flip and roll before coming to a shredded stop.

FOX ANCR ie O.:).. Oh no! No! Jean Girard and’ ‘Ricky Bobby have wxpennd! That is such a shame! 7 :

Ricky can see Jeéan-in his wréck. He undoes himself and stagcers out of the car. Ricky’s leg is hurt and we see a cut on his forehead as he rips off his helmet. Jean does the same. Ricky, in a slight daze, looks around. He and Jean look at each other::for a beat. Ricky then looks in the direction of his pit crew,. locking for guidance, only to catch eyes with Lucy, who has worked her way down to pit row.

With that, slewly Ricky starts running to the finish line. Girard with a slight smile on his face, follows. The crowd goes ballistic.

FOX ANCR #1 These men will not quit!! They are running on foot to the finish line!!!

Bloodied and staggering, they both lurch towards the checkered flag. As they get near, they both fail with their hands outstretched.

FOX ANCR #1 Ricky Bobby wins!!! Ri wins!! You will never see anything like that in a hundred lifetimes!!

FOX ANNOUNCER #2 Yup. That was good. That was real good,

Lucius, the crew, Susan, the boys and Lucy celebrate.

HANK AND WILLIAMS IR.

sare th ' i

LUCIUS .:;:. 2 My heart is full rights: iTOW «. Man I love this sport.” om ;

He puts his hand’ on Lucius’ shoulder and Lucius wipes a tear away. :

~ LUCIUS Dammit Glenn, sometimes you see too much, You know that man?

Mr. Dennit is stcne-faced watching the end on TV. He takes a sip of his drink.

TEEN WIFE

Honey can we go home now? I wanna wetch Dora the Explorer.

Drivers and crew converge on Ricky. The fans are climbing over the walls and flooding onto the field. Carley pushes her way through the crowd towards Ricky.

Ricky looks in her direction and pushes towards Carley.

RICKY

Baby! !

Carley goes to hug him but Ricky goes past her and gives Susan a big hug and twirls her around. -*:

Ricky and Susan walk away. They see Jean and Gregory waving te them with big smiles.

. JEAN GIRARD We are.free Ricky Bobby.

' GREGORY Phank you mon ami!

Ricky gives them a half wave and a smile and then is sprayed with champagne by his crew. Cal Naughton Jr. walks up to Jean and Gregery.

We hear dogs barking in the distance.

Ricky is leaving with Susan, Lucy and Hank and. ieee Jr. The parking lot is pretty much empty.

Hank and Williams Jr take off running.

owning a Lenn

: SUSAN . Mabie wah . the right driver.

Hank and Williams: Sx are (arguing about who won their foot race. ve

ol, ¥. HANK

ey WILLIAMS JR No I won! Daddy who won?!

. RICKY “You both run the best you could?

They come upon Lucy’s car.

VOICE {0.C.} That was some nice driving cowboy.

We see Reese sitting on the hood of Ricky’s car.

REESE BOBBY - ; Just the éenswer I was LopRanS for,

There’s a beat as they look aecund the ‘empty parking lot.

| REESE BOBSY . Yeah that’d probably do the trick.

: HANK AND WILLIAMS JR. Yay!

_ They jump in the car and drive off to the horizon line. MUSIC: “I LOVE A RAINY NIGHT” ~ Eddie Rabbit

END. ~

~ 8% 8 oe