Casting k*ll (2023)

[bunniefuu]

(dramatic music)

(dramatic music continues)

(dramatic music continues)

(dramatic music continues)

(engines humming) (horns honking)

(footsteps plodding)

Welcome back to the smoke,

but next time come to my place.

Cameras are everywhere, Thursday, 10:00 PM.

(bag rustling)

Always a pleasure.

(footsteps plodding)

(dramatic music)

(door clattering)

(footsteps plodding)

(door clicking shut) (footsteps plodding)

(door clattering and squeaking)

(footsteps plodding)

(dramatic music continues)

(door slamming)

(dramatic music continues)

(footsteps plodding)

(switch clicking)

(hanger clacking)

(box clattering)

(notepad thudding) (pen thudding)

(poster rustling)

[Arthur] Well, this

place is somewhat modest

but kind of cozy, wouldn't you say?

Anyhow, with $44 million

investment in redevelopment

at Scottsfell, I guess I can put up

with a little discomfort.

Amazing, and when I saw the casting call,

I was, like, so totally recognizing.

And I felt like it was really

me and where I needed to be.

To be honest, I was, like,

so totally, "Wow." (laughs)

Yes, "Wow."

And with my position as CEO of casting,

I'm looking to nurture the very

best emerging personalities.

And one thing I am very

good at is spotting fresh talent.

Well, of course.

You see, it's all about

forging relationships,

looking ahead, and

identifying a clear talent map.

And I see myself cultivating new voices

and the next generation

of movie greats in acting.

Exactly.

I'll do just about anything to

Yes, very well. (Piano keys chiming)

So, let's see what you're about, shall we?

Yes.

I'm going to ask you

to perform your lines,

and I want you to think

about the motivation of the character.

(laughing) Okay.

Something funny?

No, I... (dramatic music)

Well, no, you're doing it again,

aren't you? (Jodie laughs)

Why is what I'm saying so damn funny?

(dramatic music)

Don't you laugh at me.

No, don't try backpedaling.

I know what's going on in

that vindictive mind of yours.

Quit it, now.

(dramatic music continues)

This isn't a f*cking joke.

I'll make it so you never laugh again.

(Arthur grunting) (chair clattering)

(doll thudding) (dramatic music continues)

(Arthur growling)

(engine humming)

(dramatic music)

(door clattering)

(latch clicking)

(footsteps plodding)

(dramatic music continues)

(paper rustling)

(door clattering and squeaking)

(footsteps plodding)

Eddie, don't go out in

the streets with that g*n.

You know the cops are after you.

And your brother is one

of them, for God's sake.

[Arthur] Leave your things on the table.

- Eddie.

- No personal possessions

Don't go out in the

streets... within reach.

- With that g*n.

- No scripts, please.

You know the cops are after you.

Well, this place is

basic by my standards,

but with $44 million

investment in redevelopment

at Scottsfell, I'll make do for now.

You found it okay then?

Well, it was a bit

confusing with the, um

Good, with my position as

CEO of casting for the studio,

I'm looking to nurture the

very best emerging talent.

And one thing I am very good

at is discovering new personalities

with whom our studio transforms into stars.

I prefer not to think of

myself as a gatekeeper,

more a dream maker.

Ready?

Mm-hmm.

Action.

You're gonna have to put the g*n down

and come to the station, Eddie.

This is not you.

All the narcotics, the p*mps, this place,

you're washed up and wasted.

Yeah, I'm a cop, but I'm your brother.

(dramatic music)

Don't make me take you down.

[Capstone] And again.

Uh, can you do an American accent?

Mm.

[Capstone] Eyes straight ahead.

Go again.

(David sniffing)

Ad-lib if you have to.

You're gonna have

to put the g*n down (zipper whizzing)

And come to the station, Eddie.

This is not you. (Zipper whizzing)

All the narcotics, the p*mps, this place,

(footsteps plodding)

You're washed up and wasted.

Yeah, I'm a cop, but you are my brother.

Don't make me take you down.

Good effort.

You're done.

We'll call.

(dramatic music)

All the narcotics, the p*mps, this place,

you're washed up and wasted.

Yeah, I'm a cop, but you're my brother.

Don't make me take you down.

(g*n clanking)

Never, even for fun,

point a g*n at anyone.

We'll call.

(g*n clanking)

Eddie, don't go out on

the streets with that g*n.

You know the cops are after you,

and your brother is one

of them, for God's sake.

I like your style, Victoria,

something about you, a presence.

Many actors lack that.

And for a girl so young, I'm impressed.

Woman.

(dramatic music)

Excuse me?

I'm 25 years old.

I'm a woman, not a girl.

Yes, of course, silly me, woman.

I feel you could be a bit

more relaxed in your delivery.

Let's try something.

Pull up a chair.

(footsteps plodding) (notepad thudding)

Close your eyes.

(chair creaking)

Now, deep breath in and

out. (Dramatic music continues)

Good.

Now keep your eyes closed.

Don't open them until I say.

Now, deliver your lines.

Eddie, don't go out in

the streets with that g*n.

You know the cops are after you,

and your brother is one

of them, for God's sake.

[Arthur] Again.

Eddie, don't go out in

the streets with that g*n.

You know the cops are after you,

and your brother is one

of them, for God's sake.

(door clattering) (passersby laughing)

That's it.

We'll call.

(footsteps plodding)

(dramatic music continues)

Tell me, why do you wanna be an actor?

Okay, let's cut to the chase.

What genre of film gives you a hard-on?

You do know what a hard-on is, don't you?

Uh, well, something important,

a story that needs to be told.

Interesting.

(pen etching)

(footsteps plodding)

So, I'm looking for either an athletic man

with piercing eyes and charisma

or a seductress with manipulative charms.

Tell me, was there some

confusion with your application?

(dramatic music continues)

I like your bracelet.

Brigitte Devereaux-Jones.

Yes, and thank you for

pronouncing my name so beautifully.

French?

Oui.

Belle.

(Brigitte laughs)

Merci.

(Arthur speaking French)

Ah, you speak French?

(Arthur speaking French)

You are fluent. I am sure.

(Brigitte speaking French)

I am very impressed.

Well, let's just see how

much you impress me, shall we?

When you're ready. (Gentle music)

Eddie, don't go out on

the streets with that g*n.

You know the cops are after you,

and your brother is one

of them, for God's sake.

Belle.

(Brigitte laughs)

(Brigitte speaking French)

(door clattering)

(latch clicking)

(rain pattering)

(footsteps plodding)

(metal clanging)

I've never known

such a miserable climate.

Swear I'm coming down with pneumonia.

I can't get it fixed, squire.

Typical.

You know they found

a young lass butchered

down here around the time of the Ripper.

(dramatic music)

Did not know that.

I reckon that's why no one's

ever done anything with it.

It's like the walls have

absorbed the horror

of what went down, and

folks are repelled by it.

Don't think it was the Ripper, mind.

They thought it was a copycat.

Anyway, still a good place to stash a body.

Mm.

Is that all then?

Yes, but, uh, don't

forget to lock the door

before you leave.

I don't want any stray actors wandering

through here before the next casting.

Now, listen, have you seen a

jeweled pen about the place?

It's vintage and belonged to my mother.

It's worth over $100.

I haven't seen nothing, squire.

Well, keep an eye out for it.

I want it back.

Course.

I'm curious.

You people find joy in your work?

(laughing) I mean, there you are looking

like you've just crawled out of a sewer.

What drives you?

It's a job.

Rather work than not.

But at the studio, we

have big deals going through,

sets to build, A-list stars to meet.

It's invigorating,

glamorous, but you, this.

Love working with my hands.

Oh, don't tell me.

You're happy.

Well, I suppose I am.

Yeah, whatever.

(dramatic music) (footsteps plodding)

(paper rustling)

You're gonna have to put the g*n down

and come to the station.

Eddie, this is not you.

All the narcotics, the p*mps, this place,

you're washed up and wasted.

Yeah, I'm a cop, but you're my brother.

Don't make me take you down.

Jesus H. Christ.

Thank you.

(footsteps plodding)

(dramatic music continues)

How are you feeling?

Okay.

Nervous?

Not at all.

What did I say?

No scripts. (Paper rustling)

Fidget with this instead and proceed.

(g*n clanking)

(Mark exhaling)

You're gonna have to

put down the g*n, Eddie.

This is not you.

All the narcotics, the p*mps, this place,

you're washed up and wasted.

Yeah, I'm a cop, but you're my brother.

Please don't make me take you down.

And again, uh, eyes straight ahead.

Don't stop until I tell you,

and, uh, try some improvisation.

You're gonna have to

put down the g*n, Eddie.

This is not you.

This place, the p*mps, the narcotics,

you're washed up and wasted.

I know I'm cop, but I'm your brother.

Please don't make me take you down.

Terrific.

We'll call.

(g*n thudding)

(cash rustling)

(box clattering)

(latch clicking)

(bag thudding)

(door clattering)

(siren wailing)

(gentle music) (footsteps plodding)

Nora Cage.

(footsteps plodding)

(door creaking)

Leave your belongings on the table.

No scripts, please.

(footsteps plodding)

(bag thudding)

(coat rustling)

(coat thudding)

Take a seat, Nora.

(footsteps plodding)

What kind of movies do you like to watch,

and what genre of film

would you like to work in?

I'm really into horror,

I mean, totally into it.

We don't do horror.

It's tacky.

Well, I've done a few smart horror films

with strong characters

and a deeper message reflecting society.

I've yet to be k*lled in

one, though (laughs).

I'd love to be m*rder*d in a film.

Interesting.

Right, audition time.

Let's do a few relaxation

exercises to prepare you.

Close your eyes.

Now, I want you to imagine you're floating

in a warm sea of blue

away from all the stresses of the world.

Imagine you're capable of

anything, that you can fly,

that you can achieve the impossible.

Now, deep breath in and

relax. (Suspenseful music)

(footsteps plodding)

(metronome clicking)

(dramatic music)

(Nora gagging) (metronome clicking)

(Arthur grunting) (metronome clicking)

(Nora gasping)

(Arthur wheezing) (metronome clicking)

(car beeping)

(gentle music)

(door buzzing)

(latch clicking) (door squeaking)

Arthur Capstone?

(box clattering)

(pizza crunching) (gentle music continues)

(feet thudding)

(feet shuffling)

(gentle music continues)

(shoe thudding)

(gentle music continues)

(bag rasping)

(zipper whizzing)

People, my people, I stand before you

for another performance

of this famed production,

which I strive to make

unique and relevant to you

despite the toil and relentlessness

that Broadway demands.

I give to you my all, you

people of different genders,

cultures, backgrounds,

political allegiances,

and artistic tastes and differences,

all swayed by your upbringing, your family,

not the least your life experiences,

which have, no doubt, comprised

their own terrible hardships and strife

as, like me, you bumble

along a dark and crumbling road

to some resemblance of light,

faint and flickering though it may be.

(audience chattering indistinctly)

But most of all, I stand

before you as a woman,

and I suffer no hindrance

from patriarchy or oppression,

for I am stronger and more formidable

than any lowly man could ever imagine.

In my performance this night,

every night, I bear my soul

as if tomorrow were

the end of all that I am

and all that we are.

Indeed, I hold you to my

bosom and pour out my love

on this stage as only a woman can.

People, my people, I am your servant.

I am woman.

(audience cheering) (dramatic music)

(audience continues cheering)

(dramatic music continues)

(dramatic music) (birds chirping)

(church bell chiming)

(bed creaking)

Hello.

Hello, Mr. Capstone?

(door squeaking)

Sorry to bother you, sir.

Um, my name is Peter.

How did you get in?

The door was unlocked.

I, I knocked, but

I don't have any Peter

scheduled for today,

and I can't fit you in.

I'm very busy.

I, I'm not an actor.

I, um, I'm looking for my girlfriend, Nora.

She came here for an

audition yesterday evening

but didn't come home.

I was wondering if you

might be able to help.

Well, I auditioned many actors yesterday.

I, I understand, but, um,

her name is Nora Cage.

Uh, I don't know if you remember her.

She's, uh, she's quite striking.

Um, yeah, she, she never came home,

and, um, I'm, I'm getting pretty worried.

Are you sure she attended the audition?

I drove her here myself,

and she said she was gonna go

to the supermarket and

then take the Tube home.

You called the police?

Not yet.

Parents, friends?

Nora's from Chicago.

She has no family here,

and she has no friend she would've gone to.

So, you haven't contacted anybody

about the fact your girlfriend is missing?

I was hoping you might be

able to tell me something of use

that I could go to the police with.

Let me have a look at the picture.

(footsteps plodding)

Nora, yes, I do remember her.

I may be able to help you.

First things first.

(footsteps plodding)

(door squeaking)

(door clattering and squeaking)

Wait here. (Footsteps plodding)

Come down, this way.

You want me to follow you?

[Arthur] Yes.

Please, is there anything you can tell me

to help me find Nora?

I think I know where Nora is.

Where?

That's not something I can tell you.

I have to show you.

Come on.

(suspenseful music)

(footsteps plodding)

(zipper whizzing)

(footsteps plodding)

(dramatic music)

(knife slicing)

(dramatic music continues)

(Arthur breathing heavily)

(footsteps plodding)

(door buzzing)

(door squeaking)

(latch clicking)

Tell me why you wanna be an actor.

Don't edit yourself.

I prefer honesty.

I was 10 years old when I was cast

in a school musical production.

I was told I had a natural gift.

I remember a description of brilliance,

so I believe to be a

great actor is my destiny.

(Arthur laughing)

10 years old, and yet

with all that brilliance,

still an unknown name.

I've been honing my craft,

man, building my resume.

I'm ready, and I'll go to the ends

of the Earth to fulfill my dream.

Fact, when mothers tell

their children they're brilliant,

they're not necessarily

coming from a good place.

Our mothers can harbor a kind of jealousy

that cuts to the soul.

Nature does not necessarily

grant unconditional love.

It wasn't my mother who told me.

Nevertheless, you

fit the profile we seek.

At Scottsfell Studios,

we've set up an intubator

for new talent where we can foster

and nurture the very best emerging voices.

Incubator.

Excuse me?

Incubator.

You said intubator.

Intubate, which is when they stick a tube

down your throat to get air inside.

I know that 'cause my sister's a nurse,

but I think you mean incubator.

Oh, so you're a smart a*s.

Quite the linguist, aren't we?

I meant nothing by it.

Just a technicality, that's all.

So, English.

You speak any other

languages, French, Spanish?

No?

I, of course, speak fluent

French and Spanish.

(Arthur speaking bad Spanish)

(Domenic speaking fluent Spanish)

I detest liars.

I never said I wasn't a Spanish speaker.

I'm an actor, man.

A simple look or shift

in body language can

transmit words unspoken

that are interpreted as intended.

I was simply acting, man.

I think we should move on.

Let's do a relaxation exercise.

What kind of exercise?

I'm, I'm ready to perform my piece.

Meditation, close your eyes.

I think I'd rather go

straight into the audition.

This is part of the audition.

Oh, does the character meditate?

Oh, do you think he meditates?

(clicks tongue) I

don't see it's relevant.

Your time is running out

and so is my patience, boy.

Simply questioning the logic

of meditating at an audition.

Once you see what I

can do, you'll understand.

I'll understand what, your brilliance?

Oh, okay.

Off you go.

Oh, now you want to meditate?

Just getting into character, man.

Get on with it.

(chair creaking)

(footsteps plodding)

You're gonna have to put the g*n down

and come to the station, Eddie.

This is not you.

All the narcotics, the p*mps, this place,

you're washed up and wasted.

Yeah, I'm a cop, but you're my brother.

Don't make me take you down.

[Arthur] You're free to go (sighing).

Will I get a callback?

Well, you'll hear from

me if that's the case.

When?

In good time.

Thanks very much for the opportunity,

and I look forward to

hearing from you soon.

(hands smacking)

(footsteps plodding)

(gentle music)

Hey, Ruby.

Didn't recognize you there.

You here for the audition?

What else?

Can I, uh, bum one of those?

It's my last one.

Had to cut back.

They're getting way too expensive.

Ugh, tell me about it, sucks, right?

Did you get that last gig,

the Dickens adaptation?

I was completely the wrong playing age,

my agent did nothing but waste my time

and money sending me to that.

They liked to tick boxes, fill the rota.

Make out like they're

actually working for you.

Don't think this guy

even went through agents.

Cool jacket, by the way, looks expensive.

It's not mine.

Borrowed it for the audition.

Have to give the impression

you're hot even if you're not.

Fake it till you make it, eh?

How did the audition go?

Yeah, I should get the callback.

You said that about

the last gig we were at.

They chose the wrong actor.

(Ruby laughs)

100%.

What's he like, this,

uh, Arthur Capstone?

Strange guy, can't quite figure him out.

He wanted me to meditate.

- Meditate?

- Mm-hmm.

f*cking weird.

I hear it's a studio movie, right?

(Ruby sighs)

I can't live with my parents forever.

I will do do anything.

Anything?

Almost anything, although

I'm not keen on kissing.

You know my friend, Amelia, the porn star?

So, she said that doggy

style is always best

with her co-stars because

then she doesn't have

to kiss them, you know, germs and all that.

Mm, can we talk about

(laughing) anything else?

Well, then maybe you could

get him to touch your a*s

and then threaten to go public

unless he puts you in the movie.

(Ruby laughs)

Not a bad idea, unless he's g*y.

Then, I'll get him to touch my a*s.

(Ruby laughs)

[Arthur] Ruby Banner.

Right, my turn.

You wanna hang around, compare notes?

[Domenic] Sure, break a leg.

(footsteps plodding)

(dramatic music) (footsteps plodding)

Can't be out here, mate.

You waiting to audition, you wait in here.

Do you know the role I'm looking to fill?

Seductress, alluring, a skirt

is best and more cleavage.

(notebook thudding)

Huh?

It would be far more

suitable for the role,

don't you think?

Oh, you don't agree with a

word I've just said, do you?

Gotcha.

That's what I wanted.

Relax.

I was simply acting, and I

got the response I needed.

That look is what the producers want.

To tell you the truth, I'm a

staunch advocate of MeToo.

You don't have to worry.

I'm strictly hands off

and maintain professional

conduct at all times.

Now, if you'd like to go

behind the screen there,

you can remove your clothing.

Excuse me?

Well, there is some nudity

in this film, as you are aware.

I wasn't aware.

Well, it's right there in the brief.

I mean, if you're shy, we

can find somebody else.

Uh.

Got you again.

Oh, damned if I shouldn't

be in front of the camera.

Had my chances, of course,

but, uh, oh, you look upset.

Maybe we should just

get on with the audition.

No, I feel I've put you on edge.

Let's try some relaxation exercises.

Seriously?

Absolutely seriously.

Close your eyes.

Close them, please.

Now, I want you to imagine

that you're floating in a warm sea of blue.

(rain pattering)

(door squeaking)

(latch clicking)

(footsteps plodding)

[Domenic] Psst.

(footsteps plodding)

Why are you skulking

out here in the pouring rain?

I'm exploring, waiting for you.

How'd it go?

(sighs) You could have warned

me he was such an as*h*le.

(laughing) I said he was strange.

Strange is an understatement.

He kept saying really creepy

sh*t and then backtracking.

He's just trying to get

a reaction out of you.

Well, it worked, prick.

Do you think you'll get a callback?

Don't know.

I've got another shot at it tomorrow.

You got two auditions?

I'm auditioning as my alter ego.

Won't he recognize you?

I'll be transformed tomorrow.

Hope you don't get

known for that on the circuit.

You gotta do what you gotta do.

You know I work at that

fancy dress store in town?

Well, it's only two days a

week, but I get to borrow stuff.

I need a coffee.

You wanna come?

Sure.

Where the f*ck?

I swear I had some cash in

here, and my credit card's gone.

I had a 20, and my credit

card was definitely in here.

Think you dropped it in there?

What, like cash and card

just jumped out of my wallet?

sh*t, let me get back in there.

(footsteps plodding)

(knocker thudding)

(door squeaking)

What are you still doing here?

My card and cash,

they've gone from my wallet.

Can I come in and look around?

Nothing's here.

I always check after people leave.

You'd be amazed at how

careless actors can be

with their belongings.

If I could just have a quick look.

As I said, nothing's here.

You must leave now.

(door squeaking)

(latch clicking)

(footsteps plodding)

Lying piece of sh*t.

f*ck, I don't get paid for another week.

(door squeaking)

(dramatic music) (footsteps plodding)

(door clattering)

Crap.

(footsteps plodding)

I, I know, I know we shouldn't be here,

but my friend lost her credit

card in the audition room,

and that Capstone guy

won't let her in to look for it.

Oh, she didn't lose it.

(keys jangling)

What you just said, he stole from me,

is that what you're saying?

Best be quick.

He'll be back soon.

(footsteps plodding) (keys jangling)

(door clattering and squeaking)

(dramatic music)

(door squeaking)

If I dropped it, it would be here.

He wouldn't really have

stolen from me, would he?

A Hollywood guy stealing

from actors just seems

bat sh*t crazy to me.

(suspenseful music)

(notepad rustling)

(notepad thudding)

(footsteps plodding)

(door clattering)

(bottle clanking)

(door clattering)

(footsteps plodding)

(drawer clattering)

(key clanking) (suspenseful

music continues)

(drawer clattering) (footsteps plodding)

(chair clattering)

(door clattering and squeaking)

(suspenseful music

continues) (feet shuffling)

(footsteps plodding)

I think I found your pen, squire.

It was on the floor under

your table the whole time.

Were you just in here?

That's how I found your pen.

I told you not to come in

here without my presence.

Understood, but that flickering light

in the bathroom you told me about,

there's a problem with the electrics.

Can I show you?

God, if you must.

(footsteps plodding)

(door clattering)

[Caretaker] Yeah, I would say a bit

of condensation has got into the wire,

and it's, uh, shortened it out a bit.

(Arthur speaking faintly)

(suspenseful music continues)

(footsteps plodding)

What a rush.

What a d*ck.

(sighs) Someone stole my card, my cash.

I need that back.

I'm broke enough as it is.

You sure you had it before you went in?

Yes, I'm sure.

I'm not an idiot, Dom.

(laughing) Okay, calm down.

Question is, was it Capstone,

or was it the caretaker?

Well, the caretaker

implied it was Capstone.

Unless the caretaker's blaming Capstone.

But then why say anything at all?

And if it was Capstone,

then why would a Hollywood

movie exec have the need

to steal anything in the first place?

Unless he's not the big exec

he's made himself out to be.

Exactly.

Why would the head of

casting for Scottsfell fly

over here to conduct auditions?

Surely, he would employ someone

further down the food chain.

So, he's just some

casting assistant employed

by some bigger d*ck back in LA?

Maybe, but whatever,

someone stole my money,

and I want it back.

(key jangling)

Leave that to me.

I'll come back tonight

when the building's empty.

That's risky.

Ah, this Arthur guy talks like a big a*s,

but he's harmless, and it'll be fun.

(key jangling)

(footsteps plodding)

(suspenseful music continues)

(key jangling)

(latch clicking)

(door squeaking)

(latch clicking)

(door squeaking)

(suspenseful music

continues) (footsteps plodding)

(dramatic music)

(hand knocking)

(door squeaking and clattering)

(footsteps plodding)

Witch.

(door squeaking) (dramatic music)

Witch.

f*cking witch.

(door slamming)

(engine humming)

(suspenseful music)

(container clattering)

(bottle and glass clattering)

(liquid sloshing)

(bottle thudding)

(Arthur slurping) (gentle music)

(cloth rustling)

(bone crushing) (gentle music continues)

(bag rustling)

(footsteps plodding)

(Domenic whistling)

Impressed?

Your alter ego.

Esther Teal, nice to meet you.

I have to be really

careful with this dress.

I'm gonna return it to the store later,

so gimme 10 minutes, and you're on.

(Domenic sniffs)

Very nice.

You sure you're okay with this?

This guy, there's

something strange about him.

So, he dresses up in women's clothes?

Sounds fun, and you said

he's harmless, so it'll be fine.

It's not like he's gonna

m*rder me or anything.

Esther Teal.

(footsteps plodding)

You're a lovely looking girl.

I see you in a smart c*ck

bar seducing the leading man.

The character breakdown

didn't reveal much,

but I thought this dress

would be a safe bet.

It preserves the mystery at the same time

as telling the audience

that she's a strong woman

with power over men.

Very perceptive and promising start.

First, let's do some relaxation exercises.

Do you meditate?

No, but how hard can it

be? (Suspenseful music)

(footsteps plodding)

Close your eyes.

I want you to imagine you're

floating in a warm sea of blue.

Imagine you're invincible,

powerful, that you can fly.

Now, deep breath in and relax.

(dramatic music)

(hand knocking)

You'll have to excuse me.

That'll be the cleaner.

I have to show him what's needed.

But please keep on meditating,

and don't lose the moment.

(suspenseful music)

(footsteps plodding)

(door squeaking)

(footsteps plodding)

Lee?

Hey, Mr. Capstone.

I was expecting somebody else.

Please go away.

Yeah, man, I was in the area

and thought I'd come by

and see you about a callback.

Any news?

You do know who I am, don't you?

I'm the CEO of casting

for Scottsfell Studios

off Melrose Avenue, Los

Angeles, a major Hollywood studio.

You think you can just

drop in here on a whim?

You wanna see me, you

make a f*cking appointment.

Yeah, I, I get that, man.

But I was always taught to be

the conductor of my own destiny, you know.

If you want something bad enough,

you can't rely on other

people to drive you.

You have to drive yourself.

My aim is to show you how committed I am

to achieving my dream, to

make sure you understand

and can see my passion and determination.

You must see hundreds of actors a week.

How many of those faces do you remember?

My aim, (necklace clanking)

No, my duty to make sure

that you remember me,

that I'm retained in your mind

so that when you're

casting for your movies,

I'm the first face to pop

into your mind. (Door clattering)

I know that I impressed you

with my audition yesterday, yes?

I deserve a callback,

and I know you're planning

on giving me one, and I am a great believer

in hearing things for myself,

seeing things for myself.

(bag thudding) I had

to seize the opportunity

to come and seize the

day, (zipper whizzing)

Carpe diem, Capstone.

Grab life by the cojones and squeeze.

It's how I live, man.

It's how I thrive.

(bag rustling) (Arthur speaking faintly)

And you're leaving,

or as they say in your language, vamos.

You still have to give me

an answer about the callback.

I'm visiting the producer tonight.

He has the final call.

You're in charge of casting, though.

Yes, I am, but tread very carefully, boy.

Come on, man.

Will you recommend me?

Unless you step

aside, I'll put word around

so that you never audition again.

(bag rustling)

(bag thudding)

(door slamming)

(footsteps plodding)

(door squeaking)

(footsteps plodding)

(necklace jangling)

(Arthur sighs)

I thought you'd abandoned me.

An unfortunate intruder.

Did you take the tour?

Just to stretch my legs.

You're right.

Let's get on with it.

When you're ready.

(footsteps plodding)

So, I found a bunch of

cards and sh*t stuffed in a bag.

Mine will be in there somewhere.

You didn't get it?

No, he came back too soon.

Couldn't you have stalled him any longer?

But look, I found this (necklace jangling)

Just lying on the floor

asking to be rescued.

You stole it.

Found it.

It's beautiful.

Might be worth something.

'Kay, but if you get

caught, could be trouble.

I have to take opportunities while I can.

Working my a*s off in that

store isn't getting me anywhere.

They won't reduce my hours,

and I can't get any other work.

I'm either overqualified,

under qualified, too old,

or too young, so f*ck it if I

strike lucky once in a while.

Okay.

So, what have we learned?

He steals things from actors,

ID cards, credit cards, maybe some jewelry.

Passports as well.

Maybe we should grab the whole lot,

go to the police with it.

Says the actor has just

lifted a necklace from the scene.

Oh, come on, Dom, don't be mean to me.

A girl needs a little bit

of glamour in her life,

and the pendant is so pretty.

There she goes with the hair thing.

(hand thudding)

Come on, Rube, I know what you're doing.

I don't wanna get involved with the police.

I want a role in this movie.

I need it, just like you do.

Maybe your idea with

the bag isn't a bad one.

Only we don't go to the police with it.

Everyone in this industry

is up to something.

And if this guy is maybe a thief

Oh, he's definitely a thief.

Well, if he is, then

he's also a Scottsfell rep

with a secret that can discredit him.

We can use this to our advantage.

Sounds good.

Everyone else is using

things to their advantage

in this industry.

May as well join them.

Capstone said he was

meeting a producer tonight,

so he'll be out.

I can go back in, get the

bag, and then we can threaten

to expose him to the studio

unless he puts us in the movie.

We can do the roles.

He knows we're good.

We hold the bag to ransom.

It's too good of an

opportunity to pass up.

Oh, you are definitely insane.

Maybe, but if he's trouble,

then we can expose him to the studio later.

Let's get the roles first.

Be smart.

This is our ticket to Hollywood, baby.

(upbeat music)

(footsteps plodding)

At Scottsfell, we're looking for ideas

with international and commercial appeal

but also crucial social issues that matter.

(plastic rustling)

We believe we can change people's lives

with our motion pictures,

and we'll go to the ends

of the Earth to deliver (saw grinding)

Fresh, groundbreaking

content, stunning appearances

that break down barriers

and challenge stereotypes

and the unconscious bias

stagnating our industry.

We are passionate.

We are hungry.

We are Scottsfell.

(footsteps plodding)

You got a bigger hacksaw than this, boss?

When I hired you, (gentle music)

I assumed you were gonna

bring along your own tools.

In the storeroom, box at the bottom.

And do you want me to use

the main door or fire escape?

Fire escape, rear exit, like

I already f*cking told you.

(gentle music continues)

(footsteps plodding)

(door squeaking)

(latch clicking)

(footsteps plodding)

(suspenseful music)

(keys jangling)

(latch clattering)

(door squeaking)

(latch clicking)

(footsteps plodding)

(suspenseful music continues)

(drawers clattering)

(doors clattering)

(box clanking)

(cash rustling) (suspenseful

music continues)

(box clanking)

(footsteps plodding)

(suspenseful music continues)

What the f*ck?

(blanket rustling)

(footsteps plodding)

(suspenseful music continues)

(glass thudding)

(door clattering)

(liquid sloshing) (glass clinking)

(bottle thudding)

(Domenic exhaling)

(suspenseful music continues)

(glass thudding)

(door clattering)

(container contents clattering)

What the f*ck?

(container thudding)

sh*t, sh*t. (Feet shuffling)

(items thudding)

(suspenseful music continues)

(door clattering)

(container thudding)

(door slamming)

(suspenseful music continues)

(Domenic exhaling) (glass thudding)

(footsteps plodding)

(horns honking)

(birds chirping)

(door clattering and squeaking)

(footsteps plodding)

(suspenseful music)

(feet shuffling)

(toe thudding)

(feet thudding)

It's you, isn't it?

You can't f*cking leave me alone, can you?

Show yourself, you witch.

(suspenseful music continues)

Why don't you just f*ck off and die?

Please, f*cking die.

Witch, show yourself, witch.

f*cking die.

Witch, die.

Toes?

Must have been props

for some Halloween party or something.

Kept in the fridge like toe popsicles?

I don't know.

The only thing I'm sure of is

that Capstone is one strange man.

Yeah, the guy gives me the creeps.

Maybe this is all a scam, and the movie

that he's casting for doesn't even exist.

Maybe he doesn't even work for Scottsfell.

I did some digging around.

The movie exists.

I got a phone number and

got the receptionist to put me

through to some other flunky who confirmed

what Capstone said

about a $44 million refit.

And does he work for Scottsfell?

I asked the guy to put

me through to Capstone,

but he said he's a very

busy man and unavailable.

Then, he got spooked and hung up.

Here he comes.

Wait here.

Hey, Mr. Capstone.

Did you see the producer?

What did he or she say?

Do I get a callback?

You always this annoying?

Your parents must have been

sorely tempted with infanticide.

Ah, they weren't around much.

They were in business.

And what was that, a taco stand?

Wind turbines in Puglia,

renewable energy, you know.

It's a big industry in southern Italy

with the government and that sh*t.

So, your parents are wealthy, are they?

Money doesn't drive me.

Art is my motivation.

Oh, and you're privileged

and get to live your dream.

How nice for you.

I must say your parents'

business is intriguing.

Are they investors?

Let's say they have

their fingers in many pies.

So, my callback?

I have 30 minutes till my next audition.

Come on in.

(footsteps plodding)

(door squeaking)

Puglia, huh?

Have you been?

Alas, no, and wind turbines, commendable.

The planet thanks you,

or at least your parents.

(Domenic laughs)

Where did you grow up?

Me?

San Diego, California.

And how do you like this country?

Cold, damp, the food is drab,

and the people unfathomable.

How long have you

worked in this industry?

You must have a lot of experience.

I started in the theater. (Gentle music)

My mother was the famous

Broadway star Elizabeta Emerald.

Off stage, she was a witch,

but when the spotlight shone on her,

she had a voice that would

silence a nightingale to shame,

absolute belle du jour.

You inherited her talent.

Naturally.

But you didn't pursue a stage career?

I did, but my mother fell ill,

and I had to nurse her,

and by the time I was free to continue,

well, I missed my chance.

I'm sorry.

You don't give a sh*t.

Have you memorized

those sides for your audition?

Yes.

How long are you in town for?

I leave tonight.

(suspenseful music)

Oh, so I should know

for sure by this evening

if I've been shortlisted or not.

We'll call as and when.

How many more towns

do you have left to visit?

This is my last, thank God.

Then, you're heading back to the States?

As fast as the silver

bird will fly me there.

How many towns have you

visited on this casting tour?

Too many.

Do you wanna do the audition?

Come on, man.

Is it really necessary?

I mean, you saw what I did yesterday,

and you're impressed, right?

Arrogant son of a b*tch, aren't you?

But I guess coming from

money affords you that privilege.

Tell me, do your parents

make you work for a living,

or you have some sort

of financial arrangement?

They're generous with their money.

Look, why don't you come back here later,

and we can discuss?

And bring that pretty

girlfriend along of yours as well.

Actually, not my girlfriend, man,

but does that mean we both have film roles?

No, it does not necessarily.

But as I said, let's discuss.

I have one more audition to

get out the way at 5:00 PM,

and then I need to head

straight to the airport,

so come at 4:00.

(suspenseful music continues)

I will.

What, he wants to see me as well?

I'd like to think he wants

to give us both movie roles,

but I think he's more

interested in my parents' money.

(Ruby laughs)

What money?

Your parents are still

running that burger van

on the A127 with your sister, aren't they?

Yeah, but Capstone doesn't know that.

He's obviously motivated by money.

So, if he thinks I'm from

wealth, maybe it will help.

Don't see how.

Come on, Rube, people

like us don't get the top gigs.

We didn't go to the right schools,

so we have to dress

right, make ourselves look

like one of them, you know?

Take Cary Grant.

He did it, dressing up fancy,

mixing it up with the high societies.

He was one of us without the

money or the fancy education.

What about me?

He has no reason to suspect

that I've got any money.

I don't think he's thinking about money

when it comes to you.

I don't think you should come.

I've got a bad feeling.

(Ruby laughs)

Oh, no, no, no, you are not taking

all the limelight for yourself.

Okay, but stay with

me at all times, all right?

You're so f*cking paranoid,

and I can look after myself.

Actors need to be paranoid.

Paranoia is my friend. (Ruby sighs)

(Arthur slurping)

(glass thudding)

(Arthur exhaling)

(saliva sloshing) (gentle music)

(knocker thudding) (Arthur grunting)

(door squeaking)

How do, squire.

Just to say I'm all finished

and to wish you a very

nice, uh, trip on your

You got my laundry?

Uh, I don't know anything

about laundry, squire.

I asked you to pick up my laundry.

I don't recall you saying that.

I'm leaving shortly,

and I specifically asked you this morning.

I really don't think you did.

(paper rustling)

f*ck.

There you go.

Told you it was nothing to do with me.

Well, go get it now.

No can do.

I just wanted to say I finished

and wish you a bon

voyage, and, uh, hopefully,

we'll meet up again if

you're ever in the country.

Ah, you flatter yourself, don't you?

If I ever return to this backwards country,

I won't be looking the likes of you up,

especially someone who

appears to have light fingers.

f*ck off, then.

I'll get the laundry,

thieving son of a b*tch.

(footsteps plodding) (dramatic music)

(door clattering and squeaking)

(footsteps plodding)

(door buzzing)

(door clattering and squeaking)

(footsteps plodding)

Shouldn't we wait outside for him?

Follow me.

I wanna show you something.

(suspenseful music)

This is seriously creepy.

(suspenseful music continues)

Uh, Dom, what's that?

(water pattering)

[Domenic] What the f*ck?

He's back. Come on.

I've got a bad feeling.

About what?

About what?

You didn't think that was

a bit creepy back there?

Ah, relax, it was probably the remains

of a rat or something.

They grow to mutant sizes in this city.

You should see what I saw in the fridge.

What, the toes?

You said they were Halloween party props.

Come one, Rube, how long

have we been at this game?

(Ruby sighs)

We've been battling for

years to get somewhere.

I'm good. I know I'm good.

But maybe if something was

gonna happen, it would've by now.

And you're the same.

You've literally tried everything.

Instead, we're just wasting our lives

on this never-ending roller coaster ride.

Don't say that, Dom.

Never give up, right?

I think we should step away for a bit,

go be normal people.

I mean, look at us in this shitty corridor,

and our big plan to get movie roles was

to hold a f*cking bag to ransom.

What the f*ck are we doing?

Maybe acting just isn't our destiny.

Well, f*ck you then.

You may wanna give up, but I never will,

and I will damn well do

everything in my power

to get to where I want to be.

[Xander] Capstone. (Suspenseful music)

(footsteps plodding)

Xander, was I expecting you?

I hope not.

Well, is everything in order,

the credentials I delivered last night?

They checked out.

I'll have some better

quality goods for you tomorrow.

Out of 100 actors, five of

them might come from wealth.

Damn fools think money can buy them talent.

I've been hearing rumors about you,

and the more I get to know you, Capstone,

the more I see of you,

(suspenseful music continues)

The more I'm inclined

to believe these rumors,

especially after speaking

with a chap called Lee this morning.

He's apparently been

doing some cleaning for you.

You know Lee?

There aren't many people

in his line of business in this city.

I know them all. (Tense music)

Well, I, um, (sniffs) you smell that?

(Arthur sniffing)

No, it's not you.

What the hell are you doing?

Perfume.

Can you smell perfume?

(Arthur sniffing)

The only thing I smell

around here is you,

and I definitely smell something odd.

Perhaps you can answer me this.

What do you know about

missing people, specifically actors,

specifically young, dark-haired women.

You and me, we've done some good business.

What you've supplied has been top drawer.

But if what I'm hearing is

true, I am seriously alarmed.

I might be many things,

Capstone, but taking a woman's life,

that's stepping over the f*cking line.

Cease and desist.

Complete your sh*t.

Then, leave this country

and never come back.

Got it?

Good.

Delightful speaking with you as always.

(footsteps plodding)

(tense music continues)

Jesus, he must have a

nose like a bloodhound.

Did that man just say what I think he said?

Do you still think that

was a rat back there?

Come on, let's leave

before the creep sniffs us out.

(footsteps plodding)

(door squeaking)

(door clattering)

(footsteps plodding)

(door clattering and squeaking)

(footsteps plodding) (suspenseful music)

(door squeaking) (footsteps plodding)

Leave your things

on the table, no scripts.

Stephanie, tell me about yourself

and what experience you have.

Well, it's all there

in my CV, TV and film,

like a mix, and some stage.

Can I say I am so excited about this?

[Capstone] What kind of

movies you like to watch?

Thrillers and courtroom

dramas are my go-to genres.

Do you like horror?

Well, I would say

no, but my friend Ellie is

so into horror, and her

boyfriend is, too, so I'm like,

"Okay, I'm going there."

Ever wanted to be m*rder*d?

(suspenseful music continues)

I'm sorry?

m*rder*d, k*lled, ex*cuted, rubbed out,

in a film, of course.

I just want to portray

the character as best I can,

as realistically as... Are you method?

If you were to be k*lled in a movie,

how would you go about your research?

How would you realistically portray dying?

I'm not method.

Shame.

Do you get nervous in front of the camera?

No.

Are you nervous now?

(suspenseful music continues)

No.

Well, I have a routine at auditions.

Nervous or not, I like

my actors to meditate

before they perform their lines.

I'm not sure that's something I'd feel

There's nothing to be concerned about.

Close your eyes, please.

(suspenseful music continues)

Close them.

(metronome clicking)

Listen to the rhythm of the metronome.

Now, I want you to imagine

that you're floating in a warm sea of blue.

Imagine you're invincible,

powerful, that you can fly.

Now, deep breath.

(dramatic music) (metronome clicking)

(Stephanie gagging)

(Stephanie whimpering)

(dramatic music continues)

(door squeaking)

(dramatic music continues)

(door creaking)

(head thudding) (Domenic grunting)

(footsteps plodding)

(Ruby gasping) (dramatic music continues)

(foot thudding)

(door clattering)

(dramatic music continues)

(footsteps plodding)

(Arthur sniffing)

I know you're here.

I can smell you.

I recognize your perfume.

(dramatic music continues)

You can't leave me alone, can you?

Even in death, you're

still trying to control me.

I won't stand for it anymore.

I'll get a f*cking priest to exorcise you

if you don't leave me in

peace once and for all.

(dramatic music continues)

(footsteps plodding)

(door clattering)

(dramatic music continues)

(door squeaking)

(siren blaring) (dramatic music continues)

(Arthur laughing)

You have no idea who

I'm connected with, do you,

and how much serious

f*cking sh*t you're in?

You're connected to nobody, Capstone.

You're a pathetic fraud.

You represent no Hollywood movie,

and you're no Scottfell exec.

I'm a master of what I do.

It's amazing how stupidly

trusting actors can be

with people in power.

You have no power,

and your desire for such

has regressed into delusion.

And your fanciful and

misguided judgment is irrelevant.

So, as long as you keep

getting your stolen IDs,

and I get my financial reward,

we should both live and let live.

I told you the taking

of a woman's life is

abhorrent to me, unforgivable.

That young chap, Domenic, told

me he telephoned your studio,

talked to someone about you.

You see, he was still clinging to the dream

that you were going to give

him a role in a Hollywood film.

Of course, he had no

idea that you're filthy k*ller.

So, who are you really?

Because you're not

Arthur Capstone, are you?

Capstone is a reclusive octogenarian

with a heavy tan and an eye patch,

someone with too much power

and not a charitable bone in his body.

What's your real name?

I'll not tell the likes of you.

The likes of me?

Oh, the irony.

It doesn't matter. I'll find out.

You know that film "Cool Hand Luke"?

Well, Luke, played by Paul Newman, had

to eat 50 eggs as part of a bet.

Actually, on the set, it

was apparently just eight.

But that's enough, I'd say, impressive.

How wonderful, a history

lesson about movie trivia.

Alas, we don't have time

to prepare the eggs for you,

but here's something else I found earlier.

(dramatic music)

(lid thudding)

(Arthur gagging) (dramatic music continues)

(feet shuffling)

(tape rasping) (Arthur grunting)

(plastic bags rustling)

(footsteps plodding)

Thank you so much for this opportunity.

I, I thought I'd, like,

missed the deadline,

so I'm so thrilled the audition

dates have been extended.

So, a little bit about me.

Yeah, I've been told I really

bring life to my characters,

which is why I won Best Emerging Voice

at the "Swamp Life Horror Film Festival."

You know, it's an achievement

of which I'm most proud.

That's very impressive, Jodie.

I'm glad you think so.

I, I do hope you'll

consider me for the role.

Is the movie financed?

You know, I only ask 'cause, you know,

I sympathize so much with filmmakers,

and it's so hard to get funding for films,

and I've been disappointed so many times

when movies haven't moved

forward because of lack of money.

It's not something

you need to worry about.

We're arranging finance as we speak.

(gentle music)

(bag rustling)

(zipper whizzing)

(bag snapping)

(zipper whizzing)

Do you like this dress?

I'm gonna keep this one.

You deserve it.

(footsteps plodding)

Dance with me?

Maybe later.

Oh, come on, Dom, pretty please.

There she goes with the hair thing.

Chilling, Rube. (Gentle music continues)

You are just scared of not looking cool.

Eddie, don't go out on

the streets with that g*n.

You know the cops are after you,

and your brother is one

of them, for God's sake.

You're gonna have to put the g*n down

and come to the station, Eddie.

This is not you.

All the narcotics, the p*mps, this place,

you're washed up and wasted.

Yeah, I'm a cop, but you're my brother.

Don't make me take you down, Eddie.

Don't make me do it.

(gentle music continues)

You got a g*n?

You're the only one here with a g*n.

But I thought you had the g*n.

(Ruby laughing)

I don't want a g*n.

(laughing) Whose g*n is it?

(Ruby laughing)

Yours or mine?

(both laughing)

(mellow music)

(mellow music continues)

(mellow music continues)

(light airy music)

(light airy music continues)

(light airy music continues)