Message from the Director: The cast and crew of this film have donated their fees to the Paul Lee Foundation in lieu of payment. The Paul Lee Foundation is named after the Seattle Pacific Student who was tragically shot and killed on campus on June 5th, 2014. His family has set up this foundation in order to address the need for better mental health treatment, research, and awareness. Visit www.paulleefoundation.org to learn more.
A short film dedicated to all those silently suffering.
FADE IN:
JASON’S ROOM – DIM LIT
Jason is on the floor in his room writing on red pieces of paper, with lined paper scattered on the floor.
Jason’s phone beeps twice and lights up, he grabs for it and presses a button.
AUTOMATED VOICE
(OVER PHONE)
New Message:
PHILLIP
(over phone)
“Hey Jason this is Phillip from CSU’s
psychology department.
As you know, Professor Gurd is retiring so he is handing off his seniors to me, hope you’re okay with that. Just wanted to say that I got the rough draft of your thesis; this is a really great start. Um, there are a few things that I want to go over with you. We just need to tidy up some of the papers that you cite, as well as the data that you incorporate. But otherwise a very good start. We should also discuss your deadlines since we’re coming up on spring really soon. And you need a title. Given the subject matter, how about, ‘A Neurocognitive Perspective on Romantic Love and Loss’? Think about it. Talk to you soon, Jason.”
Jason starts to put tape on the red pieces of paper and puts them on his wall. Goes back to writing on a new piece of paper.
AUTOMATED VOICE
To delete, press 5.
(more)
New Message:
PHILLIP
(over phone)
“Jason, this is Phillip again. Hey listen I got your second draft, but um, I wish we had talked about your first draft before you sent me this. Um, hate to be blunt but it’s definitely a step backwards in terms of quality. First of all, you’re writing in the first person.
And your formatting is all over the place. Is everything okay?
We’re coming up on your deadline and I’m sure you want to graduate on time. So, give me a call. Thanks Jason.”
Jason appears stressed.
AUTOMATED VOICE
To delete, press 5.
New Message:
NEW VOICE – FEMALE
(over phone)
“Your mom just called me. She asked if I could help plan your graduation party. Why doesn’t she know? Was this your plan all along? To hold me hostage like this? What’s wrong with you?”
Jason is visibly stressed, stops writing on paper and goes towards phone.
FEMALE VOICE (CONT’D)
Do you really think sending me all of your gibberish is going to make me change my mind? Call your mother. Don’t treat her like you treated me.
Jason gets up and starts tearing papers down from his wall.
AUTOMATED VOICE
To delete, press 5.
New Message:
PHILLIP (OVER PHONE)
“Hey Jason, it’s Phillip. It’s about her, isn’t it?
Jason reaches for phone and holds it in front of him.
PHILLIP (CONT’D)
I just got your third draft and I read it, and I really read it. I think that’s what you wanted all along, right? Man, you must have really loved her. And for her to just leave like that, without any closure? Man. Anyway you probably don’t want to talk to anyone but if you do call me. I’ll listen. I mean it.”
AUTOMATED VOICE
There are no new messages. Saved message.
NEW VOICE- FEMALE (over phone)
“Hey Jason. So, um, you’re sleeping right next to me right now so I thought I would call and tell you something. And that is, yes, you do snore.
Jason begins to cry and lies down on the floor.
FEMALE VOICE (CONT’D)
Anyway, I’m heading to the airport soon. If you miss me, just remember this: I love you so much, Jason. I’ll see you when I get back. Can’t wait.”
FADE IN: Music
Jason wakes up, lying on the floor and puts red paper on the wall.
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