how welsh is my valley

8/6/2019 How Welsh is My Valley

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HOW WELSH IS MY VALLEY

by

Neil Raphael

Neil Raphael35 Sistova Road

BalhamLondonSW12 9QR

Tel: 0181 673 5923

June 1997


2/100

1.

NB. ALL WORDS IN ITALICS ARE WRITTEN/SPOKEN IN WELSH,WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES.

BLACK SCREEN. CREDITS OVER:

SOUND MONTAGE OF CONTEMPORARY NEW YORK, FADE UP:

1 1EXT. STREET -- MORNING

Rush-hour TRAFFIC...a car HORN...traffic LOUDER...anothercar HORN...traffic reaching a CRESCENDO...a Police OfficerDIRECTING TRAFFIC...

FIRST MAN (V.O.)Pardon me, Officer, what's thetime?

POLICE OFFICER (V.O.)Time you got a watch, buddy!

A quintet of car HORNS...the call of a STREET VENDOR, "Getyour dogs hot here!"...the SOUND of a SNOOP DOGGY DOGGtrack...

EVAN (V.O.)(transatlantic Welsh)

I arrived here with nothing andthought I'd be here a year at themost. Then I met you, Grace - andyou had everything.

GRACE (V.O.)(New Yorker)

Now...8 years later I'm leavingwith nothing!

EVAN (V.O.)Except a marriage certificate.

GRACE (V.O.)And your redundancy golden

parachute.

2 2INT. SUBWAY -- EVENING

A subway train RUMBLES into the station...a phalanx ofpassengers SHUFFLES forward...

WOMAN (V.O.)Don't push, mister, there's norush.

SECOND MAN (V.O.)

What's it to you, lady!?


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3 3EXT. STATEN ISLAND FERRY -- MORNING

Sounds of FERRY, WATER and SEAGULLS WHEELING...

EVAN (V.O.)No last-minute doubts, Grace?

GRACE (V.O.)

You mean about giving up mylecturing, leaving our lovelyapartment, abandoning my wonderfulfolks...

4 4INT. CAFE -- AFTERNOON

Background CHINK of coffee cups and New York CHATTER.

GRACE (V.O.)...jettisoning our dear friends,never again seeing the galleries,

the bars, the people-

EVAN (V.O.)Alright, alright, Gracie.

GRACE (V.O.)(a beat)

The answer's, No.

A cacophony of BLARING POLICE SIRENS starts up.

5 5INT. CAB - MOVING STEADILY -- EVENING

Other cars on the road.

EVAN (V.O.)That's it, Grace - the final bridgecrossed.

GRACE (V.O.)Farewell, Manhattan.

Brakes SQUEAL, and a car-horn BLARES.

CABBY (V.O.)

Get out the way, you #@&$$+.....!!! *

HORNS BLARE to drown out the expletives.

6 6EXT. LA GUARDIA AIRPORT -- NIGHT

PA ANNOUNCER (V.O.)"Last boarding for flight TWA401to London at Gate 33"

7 7EXT. AIRPORT -- NIGHT

A 747 ACCELERATING down the runway, its jets ROARING.

(CONTINUED)


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3.

7 CONTINUED: 7

END TITLE SEQUENCE.

8 8EXT. CYNFYN VALLEY (MIDWEST WALES) -- DUSK

ABSOLUTE QUIET, FEBRUARY.

LONG SHOT: A TAXI, IN SILHOUETTE, TRAVELLING ALONG A RIDGE.

TRACK for some seconds until a FARMHOUSE comes into view.

EVAN (V.O.)There it is!

CLOSE SLOWLY ON: TAXI

GRACE (V.O.)Ohh, Evan, it's all as you describedit - the valley, the house.

9 9INT. TAXI - SLOWING

The taxi stops a hundred yards from the farmhouse.

CLOSE ON: GRACE THOMAS - 30, New Yorker - tired but bright-eyed, in the backseat. EVAN THOMAS - 33, Welsh - by herside, opens the taxi door and gets out of the far side, asthe CAMERA TRACKS Grace who gets out of the near side ofthe taxi. Grace takes a couple of steps and stops dead tosurvey the landscape - her eyes widen in admiration.

GRACE'S POV: AN ISOLATED FARMHOUSE, in complete peace.

CLOSE ON: GRACE, exhilarated, sighs with relief.

GRACEIts so beautiful! It's so-o quiet!

Evan has a contented look that says, 'told you so'. Gracehugs Evan.

EVANYou can keep New York.

They walk towards the house - with a 'TO LET' sign in theovergrown front garden - as the Cabby unloads their luggage.As they force their way through the growth to the frontdoor, Grace's face DROPS - it is clear that the farmhouseis in awful external repair.

CLOSE ON: THE SIGN, 'QUIET LIFE', almost fractured in half,hanging over the door.

EVAN (CONT'D)Quiet Life...Quiet Life!

Evan reaches the front door, and a roosting pigeon fliesout of the guttering.

(CONTINUED)


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9 CONTINUED: 9

Evan puts the key in the lock, but the front door justcreaks open.

EVAN (CONT'D)(breezily)

This is Wales, Gracie.

They enter the house in the half-light.

GRACES POV: A PANORAMA OF INSIDE - it is virtually a WRECK.Grace is rooted to the spot SPEECHLESS IN HORROR; but Evanis already investigating the ground floor. The Cabby bringsin two cases and also looks shocked.

CABBYI couldve dropped you at MyfanwyMorgans guest house, yknow.

EVANThanks! Just put them down there.

The Cabby puts the suitcases down - one drops through arotten floorboard.

Grace scours around for signs of hope: there are NONE.The Cabby looks around for a light switch - there is none.

EVAN (CONT'D)No electricity...yet, Gracie.

CABBYSo, therell be no central heating,neither.

Graces face drops another degree of shock, and she shivers.

EVAN(tetchily, to Cabby)

Would you fetch the other bags!

The Cabby smiles and leaves. Evan finds a box of candlesand matches left for him; he removes and lights one.

10 10INT. LIVING-ROOM AND STUDY

Grace and Evan survey a large room with a smaller roomleading off.

EVANThis...will be my office!

Grace is reluctant to go along with this optimism.

11 11INT. STAIRCASE

Evan puts a tentative foot on a stair, as the Cabby enterswith two more cases and puts them down.

(CONTINUED)


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11 CONTINUED: 11

EVANOne or two stairs may be wonky.

Evan gingerly starts upstairs as the Cabby looks worriedlyat Grace. But Evan safely reaches the top of the staircase.

EVAN (CONT'D)No, theyre perfect.

CABBYThis is an unusual man you havemarried, Mrs Thomas.

EVAN(calling down)

There's so much space up here.

Suddenly rubble crashes from the ceiling and Evans leg

protrudes through a hole.

GRACE(cries up)

Evan!!

EVAN(calling down)

Im okay! Really!

Evan extricates his leg. The Cabby and Grace look upthrough the hole in the ceiling AND the hole in the roofAND the darkening sky, and look at each other. Evan makeshis way downstairs, peremptorily looks up to see the hole,and marches off towards the kitchen.

12 12INT. KITCHEN

An enormous kitchen with an imposing Aga in a distressedstate. Evan sees only potential.

EVANThis is what I call a kitchen.

CABBY

All very nearly mod cons, look...ifyou close your eyes.

Grace sees a back door and marches off outside.

EVAN(pointedly, to Cabby)

Finished!?

CABBYI think Ill go find another fare.

Evan follows Graces path outside.


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13 13EXT. SHED

Grace opens the door - there is a chicken nesting on theloo. Evan opens his mouth to say something positive.

GRACEDont say anything smart like...great organic eggs! I knew

something was wrong when you startedcalling me 'Gracie'! And on myBirthday!

(finally blazing)How much did he pay you to takethis...rubble!? And on a 3-monthrental?

Grace stridently walks back into the house, with Evanfollowing in her wake.

14 14INT. LIVING-ROOM

Grace picks up a case.

GRACEOkay, Evan, this is what we do.We take our bags to the nearesthotel, keep our stuff in storageand spend a few days looking forsomewhere...habitable!

The taxi is heard to RUMBLE away from the house. They arealone and isolated - the awful truth hits a furious Grace.

GRACE (CONT'D)Evan, how could you?!

EVANGrace, it's not as bad as it looks.

GRACEEvan...it's worse!

EVANThis isn't like moving to...Alaska -you've always liked visiting Wales!?

GRACESure, I've liked visiting. I'mnot sure about living here, now!

EVANAnd you always said you wanted tobring up kids away from New York!?

GRACERight, Evan, except there may neverbe kids now.

There is a GLOWERING SILENCE.

(CONTINUED)


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14 CONTINUED: 14

EVANYou're right, Grace - I thought itwould be in better nick. But weboth felt our future would behere...together, despite any upsand downs that might follow.

(across Grace)I know this isn't 5th Avenue, butI feel good about all of this.

(Grace looks askance)Well, not all of this.

Grace relents.

EVAN (CONT'D)Look, Ill go get some logs for afire, then tidy up in here, and...you just relax.

As Evan leaves, Grace looks at the surroundings to 'relax'in...and sits flatly on a suitcase.

15 15INT. LIVING-ROOM -- NIGHT

Candles are burning low throughout the ground floor andromantic music can be heard.

The CAMERA TRACKS towards the Living Room and the SOUNDSof passionate love-making. There is an empty wine bottleon a laid table, some presents with discarded wrappings,flowers in an old milk bottle and a beat-up cassette player.

GRACE (O.S.)...ohh-ohhh, Evan...I'm going,ohhh...to get you...ohhhh...forthisss...

On the floor by the hearth with a log fire burning andswaddled in blankets are Evan and Grace at climax.

EVAN (O.S.)Fi-i-i-innne!!

GRACEUhhhhh!!!

Evan and Grace collapse in each other's arms. They kiss.Evan hoists himself up on his elbows. Grace rolls over toreach for glass of red wine.

EVAN(breathless)

Theres something else...to tellyou, Gracie.

Grace stops drinking and looks ominously at Evan.

(CONTINUED)


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15 CONTINUED: 15

EVAN (CONT'D)Ive bought you one more Birthdaypresent, Grace...

Grace relaxes a tad.

EVAN (CONT'D)It's er, the, umm...house.

Grace cannot believe her ears. She tries but FAILS to getany words out to throw at Evan. She thinks about throwingthe wine at Evan...but decides to slug it back.

EVAN (CONT'D)I made him an offer, and he accepted...eventually, Grace.

Grace stands up to show her NAKED BACK VIEW.

EVAN (CONT'D)Its a bargain...considering partof it dates back to the 15thCentury.

Grace walks across the room amongst the debris, towardsthe hallway.

EVAN (CONT'D)Once it's renovated - it won'ttake long - it'll be...

Grace continues a robotic walk to the front door. Sheopens the door and goes outside into the cold night, asEvans plaintive voice follows her.

EVAN (CONT'D)...perfect, Gracie... sweetheart...

16 16EXT. 'QUIET LIFE'

LONG SHOT: GRACE, NAKED, standing in the front garden.

GRACE

(yelling at moon)My husbands nuts!!

And the words ECHO around the valley.

17 17EXT. VILLAGE CENTRE, CYNFYN -- DAY

A few shops, a pub, a chapel and houses make up the village.Grace is at the door of 'DAVIES'S' (newsagent/post office-cum-tea shop) and she pushes it open.


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18 18INT. DAVIESS

There is a woman of about 40, GWYNEDD DAVIES, behind thecounter and five other customers chattering, in WELSH, asGrace enters. Everyone turns to look at this stranger.SILENCE. Gwynedd Davies smiles.

GWYNEDD DAVIES

Good morning.

Expectant faces await Graces reply.

GRACEGood morning.

(off disappointedfaces)

I wanted a local paper as Ivejust moved in locally...with myhusband...weve bought, er...

(struggling with

pronunciation)'Quiet Life'.

MYFANWY MORGAN, in her 50's, turns to a wizened, deafishwoman, MRS RHYS REES, carrying a well-used shopping bag.

MYFANWY MORGANYes, we heard! Last night!

GWYNEDD DAVIES(translating,politely)

Yes, we heard...it had gone!

Mrs Rhys Rees turns to Myfanwy Morgan.

MRS RHYS REESDid I hear right - she has boughtthe 'crapheap'?

MYFANWY MORGANYes, Mrs Rhys Rees.

Mrs Rhys Rees cackles derisorily and moves intimidatinglyclose to Grace. Grace feels defensive.

MEREDITH PHILLIPSYoure not from these parts, then?

GRACENo. Im from Hoboken.

MYFANWY MORGAN(to Mrs Rhys Rees)

She is from across the border!

Mrs Rhys Rees shakes her wizened head. The atmosphere

deteriorates. Graces resolve stiffens.

(CONTINUED)


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18 CONTINUED: 18

GRACEIn New Jersey. That's America -United States. But...my husband,hes Wel-

The door opens, and Evan enters. ALL HEADS turn to him.

EVANAh, there you are Grace - Ivebooked a rental car for the week,and Ive heard about this builderin Aberystwyth who renovates houses.

(sees women staring)Good morning, ladies. Im EvanThomas...and my wife, Grace.

Five faces - but not Mrs Rhys Rees - beam at Evan. Graceis surprised at the transformation.

EVAN (CONT'D)This is a wonderful village,unspoilt, friendly - were lookingforward to settling here.

The women, save for MRS RHYS REES, melt with every word.

GWYNEDD DAVIESAnd youve bought Quiet Life?

EVANIts a bit of a wreck.

CHORUS OF WOMENOh no!/ No no!/ It is wonderful!

Grace is amazed, and she picks up the newspaper.

MRS RHYS REESIt is a crapheap!

GRACEWell, we must be off.

GWYNEDD DAVIESWas I hearing you right...

MEREDITH PHILLIPS...you'll be needing a buildingcontractor?

GRACEAn expert!

And Grace shakes the newspaper as if to shake a builderout. Meredith Phillips and Gwynedd Davies are of one mind.

(CONTINUED)


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18 CONTINUED: (2) 18

GWYNEDD DAVIESThen, you will be wanting Daviesthe Brick and Phillips the Saw.You should find them at the publichouse.

EVANOh, good.

Grace, unsure, looks at Evan. Grace pays for the newspaper.

GRACEThanks.

Grace heads for the door.

EVANSo nice to meet you. Im sorry my

Welsh is so rusty.

CHORUS OF WOMENOhh no!/No no!/It is beautiful.

Grace leaves, as Evan EDGES SLOWLY away from his new fans.

EVANWell er...see you again...no doubt.

19 19INT. 'PRINCE OF WALES' PUBLIC HOUSE, CYNFYN -- DAY

A dozen locals are inside, talking in WELSH and drinking,as Grace enters. All faces turn her way - CHATTER QUIETENS.

Grace looks uncomfortable and turns back to the door - NOEVAN. With a sigh and steely determination Grace is aboutto speak. A breathless Evan bursts in. Evan smilesreassuringly to Grace and takes the few steps to the bar.

EVANGood day to you.

The chatter starts up again. The landlord is GWYN ELLIS,in his fifties, overweight and ruddy. He smiles at Evan.

ELLISGood day. What will you have?

EVANNo drinks, thanks.

Ellis looks disappointed. The chatter QUIETENS.

EVAN (CONT'D)Were looking for Davies the Brick.

ELLISIs that right!?

(CONTINUED)


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19 CONTINUED: 19

SILENCE again. ALL EYES on Evan, who feels uneasy.

GRACE(across Evan)

We want work done on our house.And well have two beers.

Partial relief, as Ellis grabs two glasses and nods to asolid man in his late-40s, DAVIES THE BRICK, at the bar.

EVANMr Davies, do you know 'QuietLife'?

Davies sits half-up at last looking alive.

DAVIES THE BRICKWhat is it, then - a blocked gutter?

Ellis laughs. Another man pokes his head from behind Daviesthe Brick - PHILLIPS THE SAW, also in his forties.

PHILLIPS THE SAW(across Grace)

No, Dai! They'll be after knockingit into some fancy town mansion!

More laughter. Grace STIFFENS.

DAVIES THE BRICK(across Grace)

Or, look - I could level it...inan hour. Flat!

The wags laugh heartily. Evan half-laughs. Davies returnsto his pint. Grace coolly waits for the laughter tosubside.

GRACEWere very happy with it. We intendto live there very comfortably.And we were led to believe youwere the man to make it a reality.

PHILLIPS THE SAWAnd which cleverclogs led you downthat path of enlightenment?

EVANThe woman in the newsagent.

Galvanized, Davies puts down his pint.

DAVIES THE BRICKAhhh...that would be my missus.

(MORE)

(CONTINUED)


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DAVIES THE BRICK (CONT'D)(a beat, takes outhis diary and checks)

I could start tomorrow - afterchapel, mind.

Phillips nods agreeably. Evan and Grace look at one anotherin astonishment.

GRACEWe want it finished in 10 weeks.

Davies scratches his head and looks at Phillips.

PHILLIPS THE SAWSo youre not English then?

EVAN/GRACE

No/no.

Davies offers his large hand to Grace, who shakes it.

DAVIES THE BRICKMind, wed still do it if you were!

20 20EXT. GARDEN, 'QUIET LIFE' -- AFTERNOON

Grace and Evan are doing radical work on the garden.Davies, Phillips and 'UTILITY' JONES - all dressed in Sundaybest - approach up the hill.

DAVIES THE BRICKGood day, Mr Thomas, Mrs Thomas -we have with us 'Utility' Jones toinspect the premises.

Jones nods towards Grace, and the 3 men walk towards thehouse, pointing and chatting solemnly as they view it.

21 21EXT. GARDEN, 'QUIET LIFE' -- LATER

Davies, Phillips and Jones come out of the house shakingtheir heads and tut-tutting and generally looking defeatist.

DAVIES THE BRICKMr Thomas, Mrs Thomas, it is ourcontention that - notwithstandingyou will need mains water andelectricity...and communications...and new flooring and a newroof...not to mention majorstructural work...we will be ableto complete our contract asstipulated by the end of April.

SMILES from Grace and Evan.


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22 22EXT. 'QUIET LIFE' -- MORNING

It is SNOWING HEAVILY. A truck is parked outside the houseas 2 men - Davies and a younger assistant - unload andbegin to erect the scaffolding around the house.

23 23INT. 'QUIET LIFE' -- AFTERNOON

Phillips the Saw is checking floorboards as an errantchicken flies past his ear, followed by Grace in pursuit,hammer in hand; behind, Evan is pacing up and down havinga FURIOUS CONVERSATION on a mobile phone. Grace catchesthe chicken and sees Evan's face like thunder. Grace walksover, hands chicken and hammer to Evan - who looksquizzically at both - and determinedly takes the mobilephone.

24 24EXT. GARDEN, 'QUIET LIFE' -- LATER

As Evan finishes hammering together a coop for the chickens,

Grace - now in a stylish suit - leaves the house throughthe scaffolding and walks to the rental car. All the men'seyes are on a now stunning Grace.

25 25INT. OFFICE DOOR OF CHAIRMAN, WELSH WATER -- AFTERNOON

The door opens and the smiling CHAIRMAN ushers a happyGrace outside. The Chairman has been charmed; Grace ischarming and happy. They shake hands and Grace walks off.


Davies and assistant are installing new roof timbers; as,up the hill, a large WELSH WATER truck, laden with pipes,rumbles up to the house. All the men are amazed. Gracelooks satisfied and starts taking photos.

27 27INT. LIVING ROOM, 'QUIET LIFE' -- AFTERNOON

'Utility' Jones and Phillips the Saw are installing newplumbing and replacing new floorboards.

28 28EXT. SHED, 'QUIET LIFE' -- MORNING

The rain is pouring down. Grace swings a large hammer and

smashes the crude, outside loo - Jones takes a photo.

Evan appears with mobile phone in hand, and thrusts ittowards Grace with a look that says, "do it again".


A large WELSH GAS van is parked in front of the house. AWELSH ELECTRICITY BOARD is on its way up the hill.

Grace is looking very smug in front of everyone, havingworked her charm again...and takes more photos.


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30 30INT. BEDROOM, 'QUIET LIFE' -- AFTERNOON

'Utility' Jones is threading electrical wiring throughoutthe top floor as Phillips the Saw fits new floorboards.Davies the Brick is insulating the roof.


Davies the Brick fixes the last piece of roof flashing.

32 32INT. KITCHEN, 'QUIET LIFE' -- AFTERNOON

'Utility' Jones is at the sink as Grace ceremoniously turnson the tap. There is a slight delay, a great KALANGGGthrough the pipes and BROWN SLUDGE follows...until CLEARWATER issues. Happy faces all round.

33 33INT. STUDY, 'QUIET LIFE' -- EVENING

By candlelight, Evan is looking through some business

paperwork. The electric lights suddenly come on. A coupleof beats for it to register on Evan.

In the doorway, Grace and Davies are standing there smiling.


A pantechnicon is outside the house as removals men unloadboxes and furniture, and take it inside. Davies the Brickis applying a final few licks of paint.


CLOSE ON: A PHOTO, of the wreck that was 'Quiet Life'.

PAN OUT: TO SHOW, Evan holding the old photo of 'QuietLife' as it compares to the complete renovation in thebackground. It looks idyllic in the spring sun.

Phillips the Saw holds the sign 'QuietLife' that he hasnow repaired. He goes and hangs it over the front door.

Gwynedd Davies, Meredith Phillips and Mrs Jones are therewith their husbands to see the completion.

Davies the Brick proudly hands Grace the new front doorkey. Grace steps forward and puts the key in the lock andturns it. The door opens.

HANDSHAKES, HUGS and KISSES all round.

36 36INT. OFFICE, WALES INVEST EXECUTIVE, CARDIFF -- DAY

CLOSE ON: A MODEL OF AN INDUSTRIAL SITE, and a mans, GLYNHUNTER'S, HAND pointing to the units within the site.

(CONTINUED)


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36 CONTINUED: 36

HUNTER (O.S.)Outskirts of Aber...purpose-builtsite...most modern in theprincipality...a blueprint for thenew Millennium. And here...

Hunter picks up a box - with 'THOMAS PUBLISHING' on thetop of it - and slots it in a space.

HUNTER (O.S.) (CONT'D)Your 'empire'...at its heart!

PULL OUT TO SHOW: GLYN HUNTER, Head of WALES INVESTEXECUTIVE, a man in his late 30's whose presentation is asslick as his expensive suit. Close by is a smiling Evan.

HUNTER (CONT'D)Now, follow me, Evan.

Hunter walks to a wall-map and points accordingly:

HUNTER (CONT'D)Site here...

Hunter's hand traces a THICK RED LINE drawn from the SITEoutside Aberystwyth...

HUNTER (O.S.) (CONT'D)Dependent on...new reservoir-to-be...here.

Hunter's hand stops in the Cynfyn Valley.

Evan steps forward and points to 'Quiet Life's' location acouple of miles away on the map.

EVAN (O.S.)And we live...here.

HUNTERFear not. Deep-sunk reservoir...well camouflaged...won't know it'sthere. Impressive...or impressive?

Hunter goes to a flipchart easel. He crosses through '40%'('FOR CONTRIBUTORY WIE COSTS') and writes over '50%'.Evan looks swayed.

HUNTER (CONT'D)I'll be with you every step.Workforce in the trenches. Youlead the first assault. Full battleplan here, Evan.

Hunter hands Evan a THICK FOLDER, as his intercom BUZZES.

(CONTINUED)


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HUNTERS SECRETARY (O.S.)Mr Hunter, your next appointmentis here.

HUNTERHey, Im sorry, Evan - its a

conveyor belt today. Interfacewith your accounting boyo...we'llsolidify in a couple of weeks.

Evan shakes Hunters hand and leaves.

Hunter drops the cheesy smile drops and goes to the model.

HUNTER (CONT'D)Hunters gravy train is in thestation. I love Wales.

Hunter laughs, reaches down and buzzes his intercom.

HUNTERS SECRETARYYes, Mr Hunter.

HUNTERThanks for rescuing me, Sandra.

37 37INT. KITCHEN, 'QUIET LIFE' -- AFTERNOON

Grace is sitting at the kitchen table writing a letterwhilst the RAIN pours down outside.

GRACES POV: THE LETTER, "Dear Mom and Dad,.....I wouldnthave believed it, but the house is just PERFECT..."

38 38INT. LIVING ROOM, 'QUIET LIFE' -- MORNING

Grace is enthusiastically arranging the furniture.

39 39INT. LIVING ROOM, 'QUIET LIFE' -- NIGHT

Sleepy, Grace closes the book she has been reading, getsup from the sofa and walks to the Study.

Grace looks in - Evan is busy at his computer. Grace turnsaway and climbs the stairs, leaving Evan to his work.


Grace is GRUMPY as she rearranges the furniture. Suddenly,there is the SOUND of a bird CHIRRUPING in the room. Gracelooks to see a SPARROW appear on the hearth in thefireplace. It flies towards her and lands on the coffeetable in front of her CHIRRUPING. A couple of beats andit flies back into the fireplace, looks back at her andflies up into the chimney: it continues to CHIRRUP to Grace.

Grace goes to the hearth and up into the chimney breast.

(CONTINUED)


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40 CONTINUED: 40

GRACE'S POV: THE SPARROW is perching in a recess where astone is missing in the stack. The sparrow flies off.There is sufficient light for Grace to look more closely.

GRACE'S POV: FADED WRITING, down the stone, '16...IN...DWR'.

As Grace looks curious, the phone rings. Grace leaves toanswer the phone, soon forgetting her 'find'.


Grace is enthusiastically planting seeds and shrubs.

42 42INT. LIVING ROOM, 'QUIET LIFE' -- EVENING

Grace is sitting eating dinner ALONE. Evan's place remainsEMPTY - Evan is late home.

43 43INT. KITCHEN, 'QUIET LIFE' -- MORNING

Grace is sitting on the sofa scribbling a letter.

GRACES POV: THE LETTER, "...Evan is so busy with meetingsand his plans crawl - it could be the millennium before Iget involved in the business. However, the slowness isoffset by the spectacular views in the valleys..."

44 44EXT. RIDGE, CYNFYN VALLEY -- DUSK

CLOSE ON: GRACE, subdued as she walks along a ridge, butlike a caged tigress.

45 45EXT. BECK, CYNFYN VALLEY -- LATER

CLOSE ON: GRACE, thoughtful, walking alongside the beck.

46 46EXT. CYNFYN PLATEAU -- LATER

CLOSE ON: GRACE, by a Cairn, and circling around it.

GRADUAL PULL OUT: TO LONG SHOT showing WIDE OPEN SPACEaround Grace - to 'Quiet Life' over a mile to the South.It is a STUNNING PANORAMA.

47 47INT. GWYNEDD DAVIESS SHOP, CYNFYN -- DAY

Gwynedd Davies is arranging goods on a shelf. Mrs RhysRees is shuffling around with her shopping bag. The dooropens and Grace enters, holding some letters, looking glum.

GRACEGood morning, Gwynedd.

(CONTINUED)


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47 CONTINUED: 47

GWYNNED DAVIES(smiling at Grace'sWelsh)

Good day to you, Grace. How'syour 'Quiet Life'?

GRACEQuiet!

(a beat)Hows Dai?

GWYNNED DAVIESWonderful! He has more work, thanksto you and the local paper.

Gwynedd Davies points to the local ABERYSTWYTH CHRONICLEon the counter. As Grace looks at the paper, Mrs RhysRees is intimidatingly close.

GRACES POV: THE ABERYSTWYTH CHRONICLE, with its coverheadline, "SEAWEED BOMB OUTSIDE ENGLISH STORE. A bombthat splattered seaweed over the front of an English storewas the tenth such device in ten months. As with previousattacks, no one was hurt, the target was an English companyand responsibility was claimed by The Lone Activist..."

Gwynedd's HAND APPEARS and turns the page, and points to:

GRACES POV: A FULL GLOWING ARTICLE (WITH PHOTOS), on "QuietLife's renovation by Davies the Brick and crew".

Grace hands over 5 letters to Gwynedd to be stamped andsent to the USA.

GWYNNED DAVIES (CONT'D)Oh to have time to write letters.

Gwynedd uses a hand as a balance to 'weigh' each letterand mutters the price of postage.

GRACEIll have a summerful of letter-writing before I get involved in

Evans business.

Graces gaze slides to the opposite page and she becomestransfixed on an article.

GRACE'S POV: THE ARTICLE, headed "HISTORY LECTURER SUFFERSBREAKDOWN......Melvin Thornbury removed every stitch ofclothing in the Library..."

GWYNNED DAVIES(with last letter)

Id say every one is...65p! Thats

3.25.

(CONTINUED)


21/100


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21.

48 CONTINUED: 48

Evan grabs Grace and kisses her passionately all over herneck...and they tumble onto the sofa.


REAR VIEW: SOFA, VIBRATING, with clothes strewn over it

and the SOUNDS of PASSIONATE LOVE-MAKING.

EVAN (O.S.)...yes...yess...yesss...

CLIMAX is achieved - the sofa is still.

EVAN (CONT'D)Phewwww!

A beaming Grace surfaces above the sofa with a cushionclutched to her NAKED CHEST - she is sitting on Evan. A

couple of beats, and Evan's head appears above the sofa.

EVAN (CONT'D)(breathless)

Okay. Now...?

GRACEIve got...a job.

EVAN(surprised)

Ohh. Great.

GRACELecturing at Aberystwyth University.To the end of term.

EVAN(dying enthusiasm)

Great.

GRACEStarting this Friday.

EVAN

(flat)Yeah...great.

Grace hits Evan with the cushion.

50 50INT. CORRIDOR, ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY -- DAY

Grace is walking along - the new girl - feeling eyes onher. She arrives at the lecture theatre, takes a deepbreath and opens the door.


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22.

51 51INT. LECTURE THEATRE

GRACES POV: Forty students chattering and milling about.The students settle as Grace walks to the lectern and putsher case on an adjacent table. 3 more students enter.Grace removes her file and readies herself to lecture.SLIGHT TENSION. Another student rushes in, breaking thetension, and goes to sit down.

GRACEGood morning. Im Grace Thomasand Ill be lecturing you to theend of term.

A good-looking, confident man in his early twenties, DYLANHUGHES - sitting next to a pretty young woman, CAITLINMORRIS - puts his hand up.

DYLANWill you be lecturing in Welsh?

The theatre door opens and a WOMAN slips in and walks tothe back of the auditorium. Grace is distracted.

GRACEPardon me, but what's your name?

DYLANI am Dylan Hughes.

GRACENo, I won't, Dylan Hughes.

DYLANThats what Mr Thornbury said.

GRACEThank you, Dylan.

Grace takes a determined breath and launches in to lecture.

GRACE (CONT'D)Okay, I understand you left off atthe end of the 18th Century...

52 52INT. LECTURE THEATRE -- LATER

Grace is putting energy into her lecture - most of thestudents are still with her...but Dylan remains unimpressed.

Grace cannot help glancing at the shadowy woman steadfastat the back of the auditorium.


Grace is struggling to keep the students attention; withdisinterested murmurs from some students.

(CONTINUED)


24/100

23.

53 CONTINUED: 53

Grace tries even harder to keep the students involved.The lecture door swings open - Grace just glimpses theshadowy woman leave the theatre.


Grace winds up her lecture and rests her hands on her file.

GRACEAny questions?

There is UNDERWHELMING SILENCE.

GRACE (CONT'D)Okay. Thats it, thank you.

The students cant wait to leave the theatre. Grace looksrelieved. Dylan and Caitlin - linked by their rampant

hormones - leave together, taking no notice of Grace.

Grace runs her hands through her hair and sighs. Gracepicks up her case to leave the theatre.

55 55INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE LECTURE THEATRE

Grace exits and comes FACE TO FACE with the 'shadow' woman -striking with flame-red hair, and late 40's.

WOMANYou have the dubious fortune to bean American.

(across Grace)So, you will find this enlightening.

(spitefully)The English version.

The woman hands over a mighty hardback book to Grace.

WOMAN (CONT'D)Well talk again on Monday.

Grace looks down at the book, 'INDEPENDENT WALES'. A coupleof beats, and Grace looks up OPEN-MOUTHED to speak.

GRACE'S POV: The woman has GONE.

GRACE(to thin air)

Hi, Im Grace Thomas. And youare...?

56 56EXT. ISOLATED OUTSKIRTS OF ABERYSTWYTH -- EVENING

LONG SHOT: A HUNCHED, CLOAKED FIGURE cycling downhilltowards a crossroads with a BT phone box.

(CONTINUED)


25/100

24.

56 CONTINUED: 56

The cyclist dismounts, leans the bike against the box andremoves a sheet of paper and a shopping bag from thepillion. The cyclist sticks the paper on the outside ofthe box: it reads, 'The campaign continues to FREE WALES.The Lone Activist'.

As the cyclist enters the box, it is clear that the shoppingbag is stuffed full of BARRELS OF CAERPHILLY CHEESE. Thecyclist plunges a hand into the bag, pulls the hand outagain, leaves the bag there and exits the phone box.

The cyclist mounts the bike again and starts to pedal...upthe hill. The cyclist pedals harder and harder - in arace against time.

A few more seconds and there is an EXPLOSION from insidethe phone box. The cyclist is blown off the bike and papersspill from the pillion.

Papers flutter down - the final one being DYLANS ESSAY.The papers are hurriedly gathered up. The cyclist remountsand pedals furiously away.

TRACK TO: THE PHONE BOX, covered in DRIPPING PULPY CHEESE.

57 57INT. CORRIDOR, POLICE STATION, ABERYSTWYTH -- MORNING

A uniformed policeman with file in hand, DEPUTY CHIEFCONSTABLE SMEDLEY, is striding along. He comes to a doorwith DI HARRISONs name on it and opens it.

SMEDLEYS POV: NO ONE inside.

Smedley SLAMS the door. A passing constable is harangued.

SMEDLEYWheres Harrison?

CONSTABLEBlackpool, sir. On holiday.

SMEDLEYBloody Blackpool! Bloody Harrison!

Smedley strides on to the next door, with DI GRIFFINsname on the door. Through the glass door, Smedley sees afigure moving, smiles with relief and opens the door.

SMEDLEYS POV: A CLEANER sweeping.

SMEDLEY (CONT'D)Bloody Griffin!

Smedley slams the door and strides on. He comes to anotherdoor, but seeing no one inside, passes on.

(CONTINUED)


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25.

57 CONTINUED: 57

At last he comes to an unmarked door. He hears voicesfrom inside...and goes straight in.

There are two plain-clothes policeman - DS PARRY-JONES andDC JENKINS - in their forties, on one side of the tableand a tired-looking, scruffy suspect of about 50, ELMORE,

on the other side. Smedley motions to Parry-Jones andJenkins to carry on, and stands by an adjacent door.

PARRY-JONESSo, out of this 3-year catalogueof 14 incidents, where witnesseshave placed a man fitting yourdescription at 9 of these, on eachoccasion you say you have beenvisiting your Mother...in Smethwick?

ELMORE

I love my Mum.

Jenkins holds out a pen to Elmore who looks too tired tocontinue. Smedley looks pleased at the apparent progressof the interrogation.

JENKINSOne word springs to mind.

PARRY-JONESCoincidence!

The SOUND of a SHEEP BLEATING behind the door next toSmedley, who hears 'something'.

JENKINSMake it easy on yourself and wellget you help, Elmore.

Elmore wearily takes the pen...as there is another LONGERBLEAT from behind the door. Elmore looks up perkily.Smedley looks round towards the door.

SMEDLEYWhats going on here, Sergeant?

ANOTHER BLEAT, and Smedley opens the adjacent door. Thereis a SHEEP.

PARRY-JONESThat sheep is a victim of thismans 'harassment'.

The sheep trots into the room - and looks at Elmore.

SMEDLEYThis is what the taxpayers money

goes on - sheepworrying!?(MORE)

(CONTINUED)


27/100

26.


SMEDLEY (CONT'D)(a beat)

Bugger this sheep!

Elmore looks fondly at the sheep.

SMEDLEY (CONT'D)(shakes file)

This is your new case.

CLOSE ON: THE SHEEP, nuzzling up to Smedley's leg.

SMEDLEY (CONT'D)Eleven bombs in eleven months - Iwant you to prevent number twelve!

(a beat, sniffing)What's that?

Smedley looks down at his shoes.

SMEDLEY'S POV: THE SHEEP is DEFECATING on his shoes.

Smedley disgustedly kicks the droppings off his shoes; andthe sheep darts from the office.

SMEDLEY (CONT'D)And clear up this shhh-...sheepmess!

Elmore follows the sheep. Parry-Jones picks up the file.

58 58INT. OFFICE, UNIVERSITY -- DAY

Grace is giving a tutorial to ten students including Dylanand Caitlin.

GRACEOkay, now for...Tea!

(students stir)Not a cup...but a shipload dumpedinto Boston harbour - one of themost extraordinary springboards toany War. If Lord North had handled

his disobedient child withsensitivity 'Mother' England wouldstill be sending out Governor-Generals to the Colony. ThoseNationalists were that mostdangerous of political forces -having nothing to lose! There maybe a parallel...here, now?

CAITLINWell, we have Plaid Cymru ploughinga sterile furrow and Meibon Glyndwr

a wayward blunderbuss

(CONTINUED)


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27.

58 CONTINUED: 58

DYLANLet me tell you about nationalism.Yesterday I had to phone theoperator...and she said, 'GoodMorning'. Not 'Good Morning'! Itis English Telecom! That phone

box was a legitimate target.

GRACESo, where were you last nightbetween 8 and midnight, Mr Hughes?

A beat, as Dylan and Caitlin look at each other.

DYLANLook...the English rule ourland..and reap our Welsh harvest.

GRACESo, what would you do next?

DYLANThere are 50 targets in town Iwould...bomb tonight. Simple!

Caitlin looks askance at Dylan; the others, thoughsympathetic, are reluctant to agree.

GRACEAre you sure youre not this...LoneActivist, Dylan?

DYLANThis Nationalist, and others, shouldkeep hitting the English where ithurts - in their big fat colonialwallets -until their bloatedshareholders sue for peace.

(breaking tension)Anyway, you brought up the topicof national struggle in yourlectures! What would you do?

A tense silence.

GRACEThrow in a few Tomahawks, StealthBombers, the marines...and then aPeace Envoy.

LAUGHTER break the tension.

GRACE (CONT'D)Okay. Tea...for real. Thanks.

The students pack up and leave. Grace starts to pack up.


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28.

59 59INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE LECTURE THEATRE -- MOMENTS LATER

Grace enters the corridor in some haste, catches sight ofDylan, Caitlin and others walking away, and calls:

GRACEOh...Caitlin!

Caitlin turns back to Grace, who removes a book.

GRACE (CONT'D)Whose book this is?

Grace holds up the book 'INDEPENDENT WALES'.

CAITLINThat is the masterwork of Professorap Gruffyd

GRACE

No, not the author (but) the womanwho lent it to me.(seeing the woman)

Ah! There she is.

DYLANThat is Professor ap Gruffyd!

Grace stops in her tracks.

60 60INT. CANTEEN -- DAY

Grace is sitting with Megan ap Gruffyd, drinking tea.

MEGANSo, Grace Thomas, what have youlearnt?

GRACEWell, er...for starters, that Waleshas a literary tradition equal toany in Europe.

(Megan smilespolitely)

That Welsh is an older language

and distinct from English...andnot a dialect of it.

(Megan losinginterest)

That the culture and politics ofWales have been oppressed by theEnglish for centuries.

(across bored Megan)And that Wales should be anindependent nation...gospelaccording to Megan ap Gruffyd.

MEGANNo. Learnt about me?

(CONTINUED)


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29.

60 CONTINUED: 60

Nonplussed, Grace scrabbles across to grab Megan's book.

MEGAN (CONT'D)I am Professor Emeritus of WelshHistory, a scholar of my people'shistory and a poet of the highest

discipline - strict metre. I amon the historical trail of OwainGlynDwr - I have tracked him toMachynlleth in 1413. I have nothingagainst the English - except theirGovernment. I have been an agitator -arrested three times, no criminalrecord. I am a solitary woman ofindependent - not insubstantialmeans. I do not abide fools atall and I detest Brummie vowels.

(Grace looks curious)

I have some visionary abilities -my detractors call me a witch...andworse. I retire this term andmust find a successor.

Grace looks at the book and its SHORT biography on Megan.

GRACEThey missed off the witch.

(notices Meganstaring at her)

Whatt...!? Me!? Hey, Ive onlybeen here two days. Look, Imonly here to the end of term.Ive got a business to help run.

OVER GRACES SHOULDER, Megan sees an altercation in thequeue between some students and the Canteen Manager.

MEGANWould you fetch me another tea?

61 61INT. QUEUE, CANTEEN

Grace arrives at the self-service bar. There, Dylan,

Caitlin and others are arguing with the CANTEEN MANAGER:

CAITLINSo, not only has your companyrefused to put up signs in Welshas was agreed, but has also sackedMiss Price, your predecessor.

CLOSE ON: GRACE, picking out an ENGLISH BREAKFAST TEA-BAG.

CANTEEN MANAGERI have told you - Miss Price has

severed her contract with-

(CONTINUED)


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31.

63 63INT. GRACE'S CAR - MOVING

A dumbfounded Grace drives on towards the traffic lights.

GRACE(to herself, asMegan)

Thanks for the ride, Grace.

(to herself, asherself)

Its been my pleasure, but I musttell you - youre very weird, Megan.

Just then Grace notices, in her passenger footwell, MEGANSBRIEFCASE. Grace decides to execute a U-turn...and headback to Megan.

Grace sees Megan walking FAST in the direction of the car.But as Megan sees Grace's car she makes to COVER HER FACEand walks faster PAST GRACE'S CAR. Grace has to STOP her

car and REVERSE BACK to come level with Megan. Grace stopsher car.

64 64EXT. STREET

Grace standing by the car holding up Megans briefcase:

GRACEMegan! Megan!

Reluctantly, Megan turns back to see Grace.

Megan hurries over to Grace, and snatches her briefcasewhilst keeping an eye on the empty bus shelter.

GRACE (CONT'D)Ill take you home-

MEGAN(looks at watch)

Yes. Get in the car.

Megan bundles a quizzical Grace into the car.

65 65INT. GRACE'S CAR - MOVING

Grace does a U-turn so that she is travelling in herORIGINAL DIRECTION towards the traffic lights, on RED.

MEGANI suggest you drive through thelights.

GRACEMegan, you know, in America, redmeans stop, and green-

MEGANI need the loo around this corner...

(CONTINUED)


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32.

65 CONTINUED: 65

The lights are interminably on red.

MEGAN (CONT'D)Desperately!!

Just then the lights change and Grace accelerates around

the corner.

MEGAN (CONT'D)Actually, Im fine now.

GRACEYou're okay now!? Maybe you havesome strange bladder syndrome,Megan!

Grace's car is approaching a PUBLIC LOO some 50 yards aheadwhen she notices a SMALL MAN, acting suspiciously outside

it...and suddenly, Dylan hastily leaving the loo.

GRACE (CONT'D)That's Dylan.

Dylan runs past the small man, HUW, who is WALKING SLOWLYBACKWARDS from the loo. Dylan goes back and tugs Huw'sarm to get to a nearby van. The nearby van is having itsengine turned over and over...but without success.

MEGANI am in a hurry, you know.

GRACESomething's...not quite...

Grace slows level with the van and looks over...to seeCAITLIN, at the wheel, struggling to start it.

GRACE (CONT'D)Caitlin!

Caitlin opens her door - SEES Grace looking at her andleaps out of the van, and runs to Dylan.

MEGANNo doubt a student prank, so canwe go, please Grace!!

Caitlin is pulling at Dylan, who is pulling at Huw. Caitlinmotions to Dylan to head for Grace's car. Dylan is draggingHuw, who is counting down.

Caitlin opens the back passengers door and gets in.

CAITLIN(casually)

Professor...Grace.

(CONTINUED)


34/100

33.


Dylan gets in, still dragging Huw, a bearded hobbit.

DYLANProfessor, what are you-

MEGAN

Can we get a move on!

As Huw is bundled in, Megan gives him a KILLING LOOK.

CAITLINYes!!

HUW29...28...27...

MEGAN(to Huw)

What are you doing here?

GRACEThis is like a cosy tutorial.

MEGANGet going, Grace!

Megan POINTS FORWARD in the direction past the loo.

DYLANNo!! Do a U-turn. Quick!

Dylan jerks a thumb BACKWARDS in the DIRECTION from whichGrace came.

HUW21...20...19...

GRACE(points forward)

I was going this way. And, whosthis counting?

MEGAN/DYLAN/CAITLIN

Huw!!!

HUW13...12...11...

MEGANOh my God!

GRACEAnd whos Huw?

Silence from Megan, Caitlin and Dylan.

(CONTINUED)


35/100

34.


HUW8...7...I make bombs...5...

Although unable to comprehend Huw, Grace realises why heis counting and is suddenly horrified.

DYLANGet round that corner in 5 seconds.

Galvanized, Grace accelerates into a rapid U-turn...andRACES STRAIGHT THROUGH a red traffic light.

HUW(looking back overhis shoulder)

3...2...1!

There is a MUFFLED EXPLOSION from inside the loo, as Grace

swings the car round the corner.

HUW (CONT'D)Bee-ooo-tiful!

Back in the road with the bus shelter, Grace slows down.

GRACE(turning to theback seat occupants)

Someone owes me an explanation!

MEGANThere isnt time.

(looking at watch)Get past that bus shelter.

DYLANYou're...The Lone Activist!

GRACEWhat?

(realising)Oh Jeez!

Grace accelerates to 60mph past the bus shelter. Huw islooking back with double the pleasure on his face.

Almost a hundred yards down the road, the bomb explodes inthe bus shelter covering the insides with grey pulp.

HUWOh happy day!

MEGAN(to Huw)

I always tell you - longer fuses!


36/100

35.

66 66INT. DINER, ABERYSTWYTH -- EVENING

Dylan, Caitlin, Huw, Megan and Grace are seated around atable. A couple more tables are occupied.

MEGANHuw is my bombmaker...has been fora year!

GRACEShh!

MEGANUntil now! I have a vision of anew, discreet bombmaker.

GRACESshhh!!

DYLAN

Great! He can make more bombs forus!

GRACESsshhhh!!!

Through the window, a TELEVISION NEWSVAN rushes past.

MEGAN(to Huw)

You have usurped the high trustthat I placed in you.

HUWI always wanted to see my bombsexplode - Dylan, Caitlin let me.

GRACE(throwing up hands)

I dont understand.

HUWThat is because you are a foreigner.

GRACE

(to Megan)Youre crazy!

(to Dylan and Caitlin)Youre doubly crazy!

(to Huw)And youre certifiable!

CAITLINBut you encouraged us, Grace.

Smug faces all round.

(CONTINUED)


37/100

36.

66 CONTINUED: 66

GRACEMe!? I didnt say, bringrevolution to the streets of Waleswith kilos of high explosive.

MEGAN/CAITLIN/DYLAN/HUW

Sssshhhh!!!

In the background, the TV shows a newsflash.

NEWSCASTER"...this evening the Secretary ofState for Wales, Jim Hudler,tendered his resignation to thePrime Minister..."

FILM of a stoic Hudler entering his London house in silence.

HUWWe've struck a mortal blow already!

NEWSCASTER (V.O.)"Sleaze continues with thisGovernment and Hudler is anothervictim. The Prime Minister willannounce Hudlers replacementtomorrow."

GRACEMaybe you'll have a good WelshSecretary now.

DERISORY LAUGHTER from all.

MEGANMy dear Grace - there will neverbe a 'good' Welsh secretary.

CAITLINUntil there is no Welsh Secretary.

DYLANJust an elected President!

MEGANGrace, Wales is just an outpostfor an ambitious Viceroy from Londonto make his name.

DYLANThats why we - and others - intendto escalate bombing Anglo targets.

Huw nods, Caitlin half-nods.

(CONTINUED)


38/100

37.


MEGANYou think a few students andindiscriminate bombs will bringthe Government to the negotiatingtable!? Oh, folly of youth!

CAITLINBut that's what you've been doingfor the past year!?

MEGANMine was a personal campaign tokeep the ideal of Welsh independenceat the forefront of people's minds -a prelude to a higher profile,phase...to win hearts and minds.

DYLAN

You mean you'll lead an assault on...on Big Ben to put up a bannersaying...'Independent Wales'!?Crap!...Professor.

Huw and Caitlin concur.

MEGANAh, well, why put more money inEnglish pockets with your bomb? Ialways use Welsh produce.

Huw nods in agreement.

GRACEHey, shut up, all of you!

(a beat)No wonder Wales is subjugated withall this squabbling. Youre allon the same side. And far be itfrom me to encourage you any furtherthan you think I might alreadyhave done...but it seems you wantthe same ends, so...

Off Grace's look there is SILENCE all round.

HUWHas anyone checked this incomer isnot a member of the CIA?

GRACEHey, I'm outta here.

Grace stands, just as Megan goes into a 'TRANCE'.

(CONTINUED)


39/100


40/100

39.

67 67INT. STUDY, 'QUIET LIFE' -- NIGHT

Evan is at his desk working on papers - with the Welshlanguage RADIO DRAGON in the background - as Grace enters.

GRACEHi there.

EVANGracie. Hey, I was getting worriedtil you phoned.

GRACESorry, just last-minute stuff withthe Prof.

Grace kisses Evan.

EVANAnd there were bombs in town, did

you hear?

GRACESort-of.

EVANWell, in a roundabout way, this isgood news for us. Hunter calledto say he has heard from the newWelsh Secretary who intends topush the reservoir though smartishnow.

GRACEThat's great, Evan.

EVAN(hearing Radio)

Listen, Radio Dragons full of it.

CALLER"...it's about time action notwords spoke - these brave activistswill accomplish what politicianshave been unable to do..."

EVANI cant believe most of the callersapprove of the bombers actions.

GRACERight.

EVANWrong! What these people dontrealise is these actions arecounterproductive to Wales's

prosperity.

(CONTINUED)


41/100

40.

67 CONTINUED: 67

Just then DYLANS VOICE comes on the radio.

DYLAN (V.O.)...I speak for 'Independent Wales'.Tonight marks the end of acampaign..."

Grace recognizes Dylans voice and LOOKS SURPRISED. Evansees Grace's surprise.

EVANDo you understand what thislunatics saying?

Grace shakes her head vehemently.

DYLAN (V.O.)"For tomorrow we will escalate

into a new phase for IndependentWales."

EVANIt's probably a couple of boredmalcontents.

GRACECould be three or four, or five!?

A beat, and Evan laughs.

EVANSo, what have you decided?

GRACE(taken aback)

About what?

EVANYour meeting tonight on...'TheSociety to keep Welsh hedgerowsfull of little blue butterflies'?

GRACE

Oh...I don't think so.

EVAN(testing her)

Maybe you ought to, Gracie.

GRACENo, it's just not my cup of Java.

EVANOkay.

(hugs Grace)

Let's get to bed.


42/100


43/100

42.

69 69INT. CORRIDOR, POLICE STATION, ABERYSTWYTH -- DAY

Smedley is steaming along towards Parry-Jones and JenkinsOperations Room. He flings the door open.

70 70INT. OPERATIONS ROOM, POLICE STATION

SMEDLEY'S POV: The room has been transformed - various

scale maps, charts, files and exhibits scatter the room.

Smedley is aghast and speechless. There is the SOUND ofscuttling on the floor.

SMEDLEYI had to see this for myself tobelieve it.

Parry-Jones looks up from the floor over the desk; he isholding a small cardboard box.

PARRY-JONESGood morning, sir.

SMEDLEYIts a week since I put you onthis case-

Jenkins muffles a cry and then surfaces with 2 small pin-flags stuck in his finger.

JENKINSWe dropped the box.

Looking at Jenkins with the flags still stuck in his finger.

SMEDLEY(regardless)

And all you seem to have done isconvert this office into a nursery.

(across Parry-Jones)Have you pulled in the usualsuspects yet?

(across Parry-Jones)Do you have any reliable informers?

(across Parry-Jones)

Do you realise the new WelshSecretary is visiting here in lessthan 30 minutes and will want toknow what progress is being made.What will you tell him, Jenkins?

PARRY-JONESI am Parry-Jones, sir, and, er...

(as Jenkins pullsflags out of finger)

Well tell him that there is apattern of one bomb per month,

that English firms are targeted(MORE)

(CONTINUED)


44/100

43.

70 CONTINUED: 70

PARRY-JONES (CONT'D)but Welsh produce is used in theexplosive devices.

Unbeknown to Smedley, Bowen has slipped into the room behindhim and is listening intently. Jenkins is putting flags

back into the wallmap.

PARRY-JONES (CONT'D)For example, November was Doveycrab, December was cherry fudge,January was clotted cream fudge-

JENKINS(desperatelyrearranging flags)

Sorry, Berwyn - wrong flags...December was griddle cakes, January

was lava-bread, February was clottedcream - not clotted cream fudge...

Smedley is dumb-struck.

PARRY-JONESUntil one of the devices last weekinvolved rugby balls made in Taiwan.

JENKINSAnd all are planted in this ringaround Aber.

Parry-Jones points to the map.

PARRY-JONESSo, we believe that 2 separatefactions may have joined forces...

SMEDLEYAny evidence?

PARRY-JONESEr, no...but we believe 'IndependentWales' operates out of this area.

Parry-Jones points to AREA around the University.

SMEDLEYIncredible! Unbelievable! Andwhat do you think the WelshSecretary will say to that?

BOWENCarry on the excellent work,gentlemen. And lets nip all thisdarned tomfoolery in the bud.

Smedley wheels round to see Bowen and he forces a smile.


45/100

44.

71 71INT. GARDEN, 'QUIET LIFE' -- MORNING

CLOSE ON: MEGAN, orating:

MEGAN...after GlynDwr was proclaimedPrince of Wales in 1400, this proudman was visited with malicious

insult and a war of independenceby the English King Henry IV. In1412 Owain GlynDwr simply vanishedaged 52...weary of fighting.History books say he died around1416 - but no poet ever sang Owain'selegy - he could not die. I havenow tracked him moving southwards...to this vast valley finally in1415.

(a beat)Well, the search continues, and I

must be off. If you could let mehave that newspaper, Grace.

Grace leads Megan to the house.

GRACEMegan, I know why you're reallyhere.

MEGANOh, and why would that be?

GRACEWhether I'll be involved with'Independent Wales'?

MEGANOh no no, dear Grace - I have nosway in your destiny.

72 72INT. LIVING ROOM, 'QUIET LIFE'

Grace walks across the room. Megan has slowed and isengrossed in the 'spirit' of the house...for a few seconds -having picked up a newspaper, Grace stares at Megan and

MOUTHES SILENT WORDS, until at last:

GRACEMegan, are you okay?

MEGANEr, mm...yes.

Grace hands the CARDIFF SENTINEL to Megan.

GRACEIt's just I've been thinking, and

I know it's none of my business...

(CONTINUED)


46/100

45.

72 CONTINUED: 72

Grace walks outside again: as Megan is slow to leave.

73 73EXT. GARDEN, 'QUIET LIFE'

Grace turns to Megan.

GRACEBut did you ever see the movie'Biko'...when Biko phoned Woods?

74 74INT. MEGAN'S OFFICE, ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY -- AFTERNOON

Megan is looking hard at the CARDIFF SENTINEL.

MEGAN'S POV: THE LEAD ARTICLE, with an anti-Nationalistleader article by 'THE POLECAT'.

Huw pulls out his mobile phone and dials a phone number.

HUWI change the number every day.

Huw hands the phone to Megan.

DYLANYou really think winning over onejournalist will improve our PR?

HUWI still say, bomb their offices.When they're empty.

MEGANGood day, I wish to speak to-

(aggrieved at non-Welsh-speaker)

I speak for 'Independent Wales' -I wish to speak to 'The Polecat'.

Caitlin hands a train timetable to Megan.

MEGAN (CONT'D)If you want an exclusive meeting

with us, be at Aberystwyth Station,tomorrow, 2.15pm...Mr Polecat.

(a beat)Very well, Mr Carne.

Megan leans over the table and writes, 'OWEN CARNE'.

75 75EXT. PLATFORM, ABERYSTWYTH STATION -- AFTERNOON

The train pulls in at the platform.

20 people get off the train.

(CONTINUED)


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75 CONTINUED: 75

MEGAN (V.O.)Be the last person off the train...

Finally, a nervous man of 50 gets off the train.

MEGAN (V.O.) (CONT'D)

..and wait by the vending machine.

The nervous man hovers by the vending machine.

MEGAN (V.O.) (CONT'D)We will know you, Owen Carne!

CLOSE ON: THE NERVOUS MAN, and his imminent meeting.

DYLAN (O.S.)Dont look round! Walk on throughthe ticket barrier.

PULL OUT: TO SHOW Dylan and Huw, both with hats low overtheir eyes, prodding the nervous man forward.

NERVOUS MANI knew I shouldnt have come-

DYLANShut up, keep walking!

All three walk through the Station exit; Dylan and Huwpull down balaclava masks from under their hats.

DYLAN (CONT'D)There's a black van to your right.

Caitlin is hooded in the drivers seat of Huws van.

VOICE (O.S.)I dont mean to spoil your fun...butI think youre looking for me.

Dylan spins round to face an ASIAN MAN in his early 30's.Huw turns...and pulls up his balaclava to have a good look.

OWENI took the earlier train.

DYLANYoure...Indian!?

Dylan quickly pulls down Huws balaclava.

OWENClose. Pakistani.

Owen shows them his press card, 'OWEN KHAN'.

(CONTINUED)


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DYLAN(to Nervous Man)

So, whore you?

NERVOUS MANNeville McKesson. Ive come to

meet...a friend.

A nearby car door opens and a NERVOUS WOMAN looks out.

NERVOUS WOMANNeville!

OWENGo on then, Neville.

Neville runs over to his tristesse.

76 76INT. VAN - MOVING - ABERYSTWYTH OUTSKIRTS -- LATER

Caitlin has removed her hood and is driving. Owen isBLINDFOLD between Huw and Dylan, who now remove theirbalaclavas. All four are SQUASHED TIGHT together.

DYLANYou nice and cosy, Mr Khan?

(a beat)Well, you won't be if you don'tkeep certain things you see asstrictly confidential!

A sandwiched Owen is NOT fazed.

77 77EXT. CAIRN, CYNFYN PLATEAU -- AFTERNOON

A SEQUENCE OF SHORT VISUAL SCENES:

MEGAN'S BIKE IS PARKED NEXT TO HUW'S VAN, WHILST A MASKEDMEGAN IS TALKING PASSIONATELY TO OWEN (UNBLINDFOLDED).

OWEN REACTS TO MEGANS POLEMIC AND ARGUES WITH HER.

CAITLIN AND DYLAN (BOTH MASKED) TRY THEIR PERSUASIONS WITH

OWEN - TO NO AVAIL.

MEGAN, STANDING BY A CAIRN OF STONES, WEIGHS IN AGAIN...butOwen appears steadfast:

OWENI am not unsympathetic to anindependent Wales, but why shouldI support your causejournalistically, when-

Grace appears 30 yards away.

(CONTINUED)


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77 CONTINUED: 77

CAITLINWhat are you doing here, Gr-?

Caitlin stops dead - Grace twigs what is going on as shewalks down to the Cairn.

GRACEI'm just a...tourist taking a walk.

HUWShe is a spy!

Dylan nudges Huw, as Owen is taking all this in.

GRACEStaying about a mile away...and Imust get going.

CAITLIN/DYLANHave a good walk/Okay then, bye.

Owen walks to the Cairn where Grace is standing.

OWEN(to Grace)

Excuse me...but aren't you curiousabout their disguises?

Suddenly, Megan throws off her scarf and cloak.

MEGANI am Megan ap Gruffyd.

The others are shocked at Megans revelation.

MEGAN (CONT'D)Our life springs eternal from thesoil. Just there is...

Megan points to where Owen is leaning against the Cairn,and Owen jumps back.

MEGAN (CONT'D)

The burial place of one legendsome 5 centuries past - Hen Cymru,a heroic sheep-dog. With themarauding Anglos camped over yonderabout to lay waste to Aberystwyth,Hen Cymru ran up and down themountain hour after hour mimickinga pack of deranged wolves. Soterrified were the Anglos thatthey fled in the night Eastwards.The next morning his master foundHen Cymru expired from exhaustion

(MORE)

(CONTINUED)


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MEGAN (CONT'D)...but with a thin smile upon hislips.

(a beat)Such is the monument to a bravedog. Such is the power of this

land to turn back the English.

The EMOTIONAL SILENCE is deafening. The silence is brokenby SLOW, SARCASTIC CLAPPING. They all look round and haveto shield their eyes from the SUN shining behind a beefyman holding a wooden staff standing on the ridge abovethem - FRED SHERRIFF, 40 year-old Brummie site foreman.

SHERRIFFWhat crap! What a windbag! Somebloody Taffy hippy group, eh!? Oryou got skin diseases or something?

Dylan leaps forward to square up to Sherriff, who delightsin laughing at his own 'jokes'. Huw has to hold Dylanback.

SHERRIFF (CONT'D)(drops his staff)

Go on, matey, try me.

MEGANThose Brummie vowels!

SHERRIFFOh, bloody foreigners to boot.

GRACEWho the hell do you think you are?

SHERRIFFNever mind who I am, missus.

OWENLet's just calm it-

SHERRIFF

And here's a bleeding Paki.

Dylan wants to go at Sherriff even more - Huw needs Owen'shelp to hold Dylan back.

OWENYes I am...but Im a Welsh Paki!

The Nationalist members look round at Owen with TOTALSURPRISE that he is a Welsh-speaker.

SHERRIFF

Oy, Gunga, clear off before meJCB's demolish the lot of you!

(CONTINUED)


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50.


To the REAR of Sherriff a FLAP OF TURF lifts up and a HANDGRABS Sherriff's staff and drags it into the ground beneath.

GRACESo, all this will be demolished...for the reservoir!?

SHERRIFFHere's the one with brains, then!

Sherriff bends down to pick up his staff.

SHERRIFF (CONT'D)Bloody knickers! Where's me stick?

MEGANIt is the spirit of the valley.

SHERRIFFJust naff off, the lot of you!(scratches head,turns away)

Things just keep disappearing...

Sherriff lumbers off. The turf flap OPENS again and a 20year-old grungy eco-warrior, MOLEY, pops out. One by one,the Nationalists remove their disguises.

MOLEYHi, I'm Moley. We've got a secretnetwork down here ready to disruptthe hardhats. Don't worry, thisreservoir won't happen. Oh, goodluck with your fight.

Moley drops down into his tunnel system, leaving theNationalists dumbfounded.

OWENI will be pleased to help you,Megan ap Gruffyd.

GRACE

Agreed!

78 78INT. MEGAN'S OFFICE, ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY -- DAY

Grace and Megan are reading the local Aberystwyth paper.

MEGAN (V.O.)The clock is ticking...as weaccelerate our campaign. Let uschoose our targets carefully.

Megan points to a passage in the paper.

(CONTINUED)


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78 CONTINUED: 78

CLOSE ON: AN ARTICLE, which reads: "...The Welsh LanguageSociety has been leafletting one particular store inAberystwyth. For over a year now it has been intransigentin its refusal to display signs in Welsh..."

79 79EXT. STORE, ABERYSTWYTH -- EARLY MORNING

CLOSE ON: CAITLIN AND DYLAN, in heavy disguise, who walkup to the front doors of the Store. Dylan places a carrierbag down in the doorway; whilst, next to the 'CLOSED' signon the front door, Caitlin slaps a sticker which reads,"The Welsh Language Society has done its best to implementWelsh signs in this store - 'INDEPENDENT WALES' believesit has a better way".

They walk casually away and look up to the building roof.

80 80EXT. ROOF, STORE

Huw is there with a wooden box with a timer (reading 9o'clock) on the outside. Huw scurries away.

81 81EXT. STORE -- MOMENTS LATER

The device at the front door explodes spraying LEEKS overthe store-front.

82 82EXT. STORE -- MORNING

At opening time (9 o'clock), in the aftermath of the attack,DC Jenkins is scraping samples of LEEKS off the window,whilst DS Parry-Jones is dealing with an angry StoreManager. There is a MUFFLED EXPLOSION from above.

They all look up to see scores of 6-inch dragons issuingfrom Huw's box on the roof.

As the parachuting dragons reach ground level shoppersgrab at them. They have messages attached to them.Children squeal with delight and pedestrians laugh.

The (English) Store Manager grabs a dragon, looks at themessage, which he is unable to read, and hands it to another

staff member, who suppresses a laugh.

CLOSE ON: THE MESSAGE, 'Wales's dragon says BOYCOTT THISSTORE!"

83 83EXT. CRICKET GROUND, GLAMORGAN -- DAY

CLOSE ON: ENTRANCE SITE - 'PRINCE OF WALES XI vs ENGLANDXI'.

The England Team Bus drives past, into the ground.


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91 91INT. CANTEEN, UNIVERSITY -- NIGHT

MEGAN (V.O.)In the meantime, Dylan can enjoybaiting his bete-noir...

A device explodes near the check-out, spraying Welsh COALthroughout the Canteen; and a 10-foot dragon inflates with

'INDEPENDENT WALES' on it.

MEGAN (V.O.) (CONT'D)And, persevering to the end, let'sreally cause a stink...

92 92EXT. STORE, ABERYSTWYTH -- MORNING

The Store-front has been plastered with exploded MANURE.Parry-Jones and Jenkins are there collating clues. TheStore Manager is speechlessly incandescent.

93 93EXT. ROOF, STORE

Two policemen give the all-clear to Jenkins BELOW...whenHuw's dragons-in-the-box explode from the OPPOSITE ROOFsending out more dragons, to the police's surprise.

94 94EXT. STORE-FRONT

As pedestrians grab falling dragons, Parry-Jones and Jenkinslook exasperated. The Store Manager tears his hair out.

95 95INT. BEDROOM, 'QUIET LIFE' -- MORNING

Evan, ready to leave for a business meeting, approachesthe bed where Grace is asleep. He sits on the bed by herside and gently shakes her - NO RESPONSE. He leans overand whispers in her ear - Grace turns over and pulls theduvet up. Exasperated, Evan stands up and leaves.

96 96EXT. STORE, ABERYSTWYTH -- DAY

Caitlin, Dylan and Grace walk into the store.

97 97INT. STORE

GRACE'S POV: ENGLISH SIGNS are being removed; WELSH SIGNSare going up.

They all smile with satisfaction.

98 98EXT. PHONE BOOTH, STREET, CARDIFF -- DAY

Owen is standing in the booth with a press release fromthe Welsh Office.

OWENMegan, Ive just got the latest

edict from the Welsh Office.(MORE)

(CONTINUED)


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55.

104 104INT. TELEVISION STUDIO -- MORNING

A TV PRESENTER is at a newsdesk.

PRESENTERIn the aftermath of this morning'stwo-pronged attack by 'IndependentWales' on the hearts of the capitals

of England and Wales, we can gostraight over to our reporter.

105 105EXT. HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT, LONDON -- MORNING

A REPORTER is standing in Parliament Square, TO CAMERA:

REPORTERThe capital woke to this sightthis morning...

CLOSE ON: BIG BEN'S TOWER, with 4 dragons - 20-foot tall -

inflated around each corner. Between each dragon arebanners reading, 'INDEPENDENT WALES SAYS INDEPENDENCE FORENGLAND' and 'THE DRAGON ROARS'.

Behind the reporter, NEIL KINNOCK is walking by and isgrabbed by him. Further in the background, 4 gross ofdragons spurt out of the dragons heads around Big Ben.

REPORTER (CONT'D)And here is Neil Kinnock.

(to Kinnock)Mr Kinnock, can you tell me whatyou think of this daring 'attack'on democracy's cradle?

Kinnock grabs at one of the falling dragons...and SMILES.As Kinnock turns away from the camera he is EYEBALLED by agleefully manic Huw, watching his handiwork.

106 106EXT. WELSH SECRETARY OFFICES, CARDIFF -- MORNING

MEGAN (V.O.)And finally, our good friend Bowen.

A SECURITY GUARD stands at the front door of the building

as Bowen strides out, suitcase in hand and newspaper underhis arm, with his DETECTIVE and Smedley in tow. Bowen'scar is at the kerbside - his DRIVER is standing with therear door open. Bowen glances over his shoulder andUPWARDS, and is FURIOUS at what he sees.

ANGLED POV: 2 INFLATED DRAGONS, 20-foot tall, on thebuilding roof, with a banner between them reading,'INDEPENDENT WALES MEANS INDEPENDENCE FOR ENGLAND'.

BOWEN(to Security Guard)

Haven't you got rid of those...Those!?

(CONTINUED)


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56.

106 CONTINUED: 106

Bowen takes a step forward to his car and there is aCRUNCHING SOUND. Bowen LOOKS DOWN to the pavement.

ANGLED POV: A CRUSHED 6-INCH DRAGON, under his foot.

Bowen TUTS, and steps into his car, followed by Smedley.

107 107INT. BOWENS CAR

Bowen's detective and Driver get in the front seats. Thecar radio is on:

NEWSCASTER (V.O.)...'Independent Wales' continuesto win the hearts and minds of theWelsh people - and nothing thepolice or Denzil Bowen can do canhalt their momentum...

BOWENWe'll see about that!

(to Driver)Turn that off!

The detective turns off the radio.

BOWEN (CONT'D)(to Smedley)

I want results from you.

Bowen opens his CARDIFF SENTINEL.

BOWEN'S POV: THE SENTINEL, with the lead article by THEPOLECAT, "...on the back of a clever campaign, 'IndependentWales' is gaining strength and converts at an astonishingrate. One opinion poll shows those in favour of Welshdevolution up from 15% to 47% in one month - and that's inSouth Wales..."

BOWEN (CONT'D)Oh really!

Bowen throws down the paper.

BOWEN (CONT'D)(to Driver)

Driver...lets go.

The Driver starts the car, and Smedley notices a paintedbox like a childs jack-in-the-box in the footwell.

SMEDLEYWhats this box?

The Driver turns round.

(CONTINUED)


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107 CONTINUED: 107

DRIVERWhat box, sir?

108 108EXT. STREET CORNER, WELSH SECRETARY OFFICES, CARDIFF

Fifty yards from Bowen's car, Dylan stands holding a remote

control. As Dylan sees the box in Smedley's hand, Dylanflicks the switch.


BOWENThis box, 'sir'!

The lid flips open and a Welsh dragon pops up. Smedleyexclaims as he jumps back: Bowen slides over to the door.

110 110EXT. STREET CORNER

Dylan flicks the remote control switch.


The dragon-in-the-box belches red paint from its mouth -Smedley is SOAKED and paint streaks across Bowens back.

At street corners, Dylan and Caitlin watch gleefully.

112 112INT. WELSH SECRETARY OFFICES, CARDIFF

Streaked in paint, Bowen storms into the house breathingfire. His Detective lags behind him.

BOWENYoure fired.

113 113INT. BOWEN'S OFFICE, WELSH SECRETARY OFFICES

Bowen goes to his desk, picks up the phone and dials.

BOWEN(to Detective)

Before you go, get those two

incompetent policeman...and firethem!

114 114INT. OFFICE, ANTI-TERRORIST HEADQUARTERS, LONDON

The open door's SIGN: 'COMMANDER McALLISTER'. ALISTAIRMcALLISTER is a good-looking, intelligent man in his early50's with a slight Scots accent. He is holding the phone:

MCALLISTER...yes, Mr Bowen.

(MORE)

(CONTINUED)


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114 CONTINUED: 114

MCALLISTER (CONT'D)(a beat)

I presume its the IRA?...AnimalLiberationists?...Urban Warriors?

(suddenly quiet)Ohh! Yes, sir...immediately.

McAllister puts the phone down and looks solemnly at twoplainclothes men in their 30s - DINWOODY and GATES.

MCALLISTER (CONT'D)Were off. To Wales!

Dinwoody and Gates look surprised.

GATESWhat for?

MCALLISTERTo cut the head off the dragon.

McAllister leaves his office. Dinwoody - crunching hisfingers in relish - and Gates follow.

DINWOODYI had a crap holiday there yearsago. Bleeding miserable Taffies!

GATESI didnt know they still had dragonsin Wales.


The front door OPENS and Grace creeps in. She walks acrossto the staircase when Evan, on the sofa, wakes.

EVAN (O.S.)Hi.

GRACEOhh...hi.

EVANHow's things?

GRACEOh...only another week...or two.

EVANWhat's that, Grace?

GRACEWork at the Uni, what do you think?

(CONTINUED)


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60.


EVAN (CONT'D)Spare me, Grace, it's too late,and Denzil Bowen is turning upthis Friday to push through theinauguration of the reservoirsite...though it's hush-hush for

security reasons.

GRACEYou know, I always thought we hadsimilar values.

Grace storms up the stairs.

EVANY'know, Grace, sometimes I wish Iwas back in New York.

Evan heads back for (a night on) the sofa.


Grace is coming downstairs, looking tired. She walks tothe sofa - Evan is not there. She sees a note on the tableand picks it up.

GRACE'S POV: THE NOTE, "Grace, We need to talk. Come andmeet me at the Site. Evan."

117 117EXT. CYNFYN VALLEY -- DAY

A thoughtful Grace is walking up the ridge to the CynfynPlateau. Atop the ridge, Grace is 20 feet from Hen Cymru'sCairn when she STOPS ABRUPTLY and her mouth drops open.

GRACES POV: THE PROPOSED RESERVOIR SITE - ring fencing,portacabins and heavy plant machinery being driven up.

Grace sits against the Cairn transfixed on the site.

GRACE'S POV: INSIDE THE SITE - EVAN, with Hunter and 2other men in suits.

SHERRIFF (O.S.)Oy!! What dya think youre doinghere?

Grace turns round to see the threatening figure of Sherriff.

GRACEWell, er...Im here to see-

SHERRIFFDont tell me. Youre the Head of'Wales Invest Executive'!?

Sherriff laughs, and Grace stands up.

(CONTINUED)


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117 CONTINUED: 117

GRACENo, Im-

SHERRIFFI should bloody well think not.This is private property.

GRACEYou dont understand-

SHERRIFFI dont understand!? Look, missus,'private' means 'not public'!Outsiders not invited - so, friggingvamoose! And if you're here atthe end of the week...

Sherriff walks up to the Cairn - Grace backpedals - and

puts his size 12 boot into it. The stones tumble over.

SHERRIFF (CONT'D)That's what'll happen to you!

Sherriff stomps off, whilst Grace looks stunned. Gracegoes to the Cairn to pick up the stones. Ten feet away, aTURF FLAP lifts and Moley surfaces.

MOLEYHi there again.

GRACEHi.

MOLEYSorry I couldn't help, but it'snot time to show our hand.

Grace is putting the first stone back when she STOPS andlooks at the bottom-most stone in the Cairn.

GRACE'S POV: THE BOTTOM-MOST STONE, with faded writing,'AD14...OWA....GLYN'.

MOLEY (O.S.) (CONT'D)Hey, let me help you with all those.

Grace looks hard and recalls:

FLASHBACK SEQUENCE:

118 118INT. CHIMNEY BREAST, 'QUIET LIFE' -- MORNING

GRACE'S POV: THE RECESS where a stone is missing in thestack. Grace looks more closely.

GRACE'S POV: FADED WRITING down the stone, '16...IN...DWR'.

(CONTINUED)


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118 CONTINUED: 118

Now, Grace IMAGINES the two stones JUXTAPOSED in the stack,'AD1416 OWAIN GLYNDWR'.

FLASHFORWARD:

119 119EXT. CAIRN, CYNFYN PLATEAU -- DAY

An illuminated Grace hands the 'GlynDwr Stone' to Moley.

GRACEGuard this one with your life.

A determined Grace marches off, leaving Moley bemused.

120 120EXT. PORTACABIN, RESERVOIR SITE, CYNFYN PLATEAU -- DAY

Evan is looking out at the ridge, preoccupied with Grace'shopeful arrival.

HUNTER (O.S.)Dreaming about good times ahead?

Evan turns to see Hunter and then the BACK VIEW OF A WOMANresembling Grace. Evan perks up. The woman turns andturns out to be another Hunter investor on a Site tour.

EVANEr, no...something else.

Evan forces a smile...as a HELICOPTER FLIES low overheaden route to Aberystwyth.

121 121EXT. ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY -- DAY

Dylan and Caitlin are in the grounds walking towards themain block...when the same HELICOPTER FLIES overhead.

122 122EXT. PARRY-JONESS CAR, HIGH GROUND ABOVE UNIVERSITY

The same HELICOPTER roars over Parry-Jones's car. Parry-Jones is standing by the car bonnet studying a map. Jenkinsis looking through a pair of binoculars...down on theUniversity buildings. The car radio splutters on. Jenkins

goes to the car.

SMEDLEY (RADIO VOICE)...Come in Parry-Jones, this isDCC Smedley...

Jenkins clicks on the handset.

SMEDLEY (RADIO VOICE) (CONT'D)At last, Parry-

JENKINS

Jenkins here, sir.(MORE)

(CONTINUED)


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122 CONTINUED: 122

JENKINS (CONT'D)Meant to call in to report we'vepinpointed the centre of'Independent Wales' and its possibleleader.

Parry-Jones is holding a copy of Megan's book.

JENKINS (CONT'D)But we are deep undercover...sowell be abandoning all radiocontact as of...

SMEDLEYBut, Parry-,Jenk-

Parry-Jones switches off the radio.

JENKINSNow!

123 123INT. SMEDLEYS OFFICE, ABERYSTWYTH POLICE STATION -- DAY

Smedley is red-faced with the radio receiver in his hand.

SMEDLEYCome in Jenkins, you...

The noise of the HELICOPTER LANDING obliterates all butthe last of Smedleys conversation:

SMEDLEY (CONT'D)Youre off the bloody case, youcretins!

Smedley slams down the receiver and goes over to the windowto see what all the commotion is about.

Smedley walks across his office and opens the door. Helooks out into the corridor and sees the backs of two menentering Parry-Joness Operations Room. Smedley walksalong the corridor and, as he approaches, hears noiseinside. He opens the door expecting to see Parry-Jones

and Jenkins.

124 124INT. OPERATIONS ROOM

SMEDLEY'S POV: DINWOODY AND GATES.

SMEDLEYAh, you must be-

DINWOODYThe pros from London.

Gates picks up a box of evidence - rotting leeks - withdisgust, and takes in the odour.

(CONTINUED)


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124 CONTINUED: 124

GATESThis rooms bloody disgusting.

SMEDLEYYes, well, I let my detectiveshave too long a leash.

DINWOODYAmateurs. Ill take 'em out ifthey get in my way.

SMEDLEYI have, er...contacted them toleave the case...to you.

McAllister suddenly appears from behind the door with asheaf of papers.

MCALLISTERMr Smedley, I'm McAllister. Werein overall command now - let allyour men know. Hope you dontmind our chopper in your yard?

Smedley looks out into the yard where the helicopter isattracted an interested crowd of police.

SMEDLEY(polite smile)

No.

MCALLISTER(tapping wallchart)

Tell your men...this is good steady,methodical policework.

McAllister smiles benignly; Smedley heaves an ironic sigh.

125 125EXT. ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY -- DAY

Grace is walking into the main building.

126 126INT. CORRIDOR, HISTORY DEPARTMENT, UNIVERSITY -- DAY

Grace, looking pale and unwell, is walking along when shesees two men behaving suspiciously near Megans office.Grace rushes on.

127 127INT. CORRIDOR, OUTSIDE MEGANS OFFICE

Grace quickly passes the men - Parry-Jones and Jenkins -and goes to open Megans door. Grace sees the shadows ofthe whole crew inside, and TURNS BACK to face Parry-Jonesand Jenkins. Grace deliberately holds the door OPEN.

GRACECan I help you gents?

(CONTINUED)


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127 CONTINUED: 127

PARRY-JONESYoure not Professor ap Gruffyd?

GRACEShes an older woman - and Welsh.Im not.

128 128INT. MEGANS OFFICE

Owen, Huw, Dylan, Caitlin and Megan are listening:

PARRY-JONES (O.S.)And you are?

GRACE (O.S.)American. Sorry, Grace Thomas.


PARRY-JONESYou wouldnt happen to know thewhereabouts of the Professor?

GRACEThe 'late' professor.

JENKINSShes...died!?

GRACEOh no! Retired...yesterday, and...I've taken over from her. Hey,you guys a load of questions -anyone would think you were cops.

JENKINSWe are.

Parry-Jones removes and shows his ID.

GRACEJeez! Is she okay, I mean, is shein trouble - hell, yknow I only

met her once or twice like atinterview. She seemed okay...kindakooky, a tad flaky...but hell, shehired me to take over.

130 130INT. MEGANS OFFICE

Unfazed by Grace's description, Megan signals to Huw toleave the office by the side door with his box of tools.

PARRY-JONES (O.S.)So, this will be your office?


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66.


GRACEEr...yeah, sure.

Huw comes toddling along carrying a tool-box.

HUW

You Mrs Thomas?

GRACESorry, I dont speak Welsh.

HUWIve come to put your name on yourdoor...bloody foreigner.

JENKINS(to Huw)

Mind your attitude.

(to Grace)He's the signwriter.

GRACEGreat, terrific - then Ill knowwhich door to come through.

Huw starts to scrape Megans name off the door.

PARRY-JONESWhere's the late Professor now?

GRACE(seeing bombmakingparts in Huws box)

Bomb...bay! Calcutta...Singapore...Fiji And Hawaii - on a worldtour...and then settling in Iceland.

As Huw covers over his bombmaking parts, Parry-Jones andJenkins look at each other in disbelief.

PARRY-JONESWell, thank you, Mrs Thomas, youvebeen...helpful.

Parry-Jones and Jenkins walk off.

As soon as they have gone from sight, Huw darts inside -Grace looks faint and groggy again when Dylan thrusts aglass of sparkling wine in her hand.

GRACEHey, I only put them off the scent.

Dylan pulls Grace into Megans office.

(CONTINUED)


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67.

131 CONTINUED: 131

CAITLINNo, we're celebrating. Megan hasbecome the first woman to be awardedthe Bardic Chair of Chairs...atthe National Eisteddfod thisSaturday.

Grace smiles broadly, and goes over to hug Megan.

GRACEGreat going, Prof.

MEGANMy poem parallels the optimism ofGlynDwr's with our present time.

They all raise their glasses, and drink. Grace takes asip and feels nauseous.

GRACE(hurriedly)

Hen Cymru's Cairn...I'm sure it'sOwain GlynDwr's grave.

Surprised and happy faces all round.

GRACE (CONT'D)It's safe till Friday when Bowenwill personally flatten the site.

FURY all round. Grace heads for the door.

MEGANThen, we will put all the nails inMr Bowens coffin.

GRACENo-o!!

Grace puts her hand to her mouth and rushes from the office -to the surprise of her compatriots.

132 132EXT. PROJECTED RESERVOIR SITE, CYNFYN PLATEAU -- DAY

Hunter with Evan and ten other suited businessmen/womenawait the arrival of their VIP.

MEGAN (V.O.)On GlynDwr Day there will be twostrands to the Plan - the firstpart will be one long revelation...

CLOSE ON: OWENS CAR, with Owen inside, a PRESS STICKERadorning the windscreen, as it pulls up.

OWEN (V.O.)Ill be covering the event...

(CONTINUED)


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68.

132 CONTINUED: 132

Sitting next to Owen is Caitlin, with camera on lap.

CAITLIN (V.O.)Along with your trusty photographer.

CLOSE ON: EVAN, looking apprehensive, as Owen 'interviews'

the confident Hunter.

CLOSE ON: THE VERBOSE, CONFIDENT HUNTER and a mock-enthusiastic Owen and his NOTE-PAD as he writes, "CRAPCRAP MORE CRAP, BOLLOCKS, BUCKETLOADS OF BULL EXCREMENT....ETC". Caitlin snaps the photophilic Hunter with Evan.

GRACE (V.O.)Relations with Evan are...cool,but I've found out that policingwill be minimal, though our friendlyforeman has his workers as security.

SHOT OF: SHERRIFF, his dozen burly Brummie workers in agroup, and 4 uniformed policemen in attendance.

CLOSE ON: HUNTER, as he sees Bowens car driving up.Bowens car slows to a stop near Hunter. Hunter walksover and opens the door. Bowen gets out. Hunter and Bowenshake hands: Caitlin takes a photo.

HUNTERHow good of you to come, Minister.

BOWENGlad to be of help, Glyn.

HUNTERCome and meet the investors.

Hunter leads Bowen towards the suits; as one of Sherriff'smen drives up in a JCB.

HUNTER (CONT'D)This is Evan Thomas, Minister.

BOWEN

(shaking hands)Mr Thomas.

(looking to Evansside)

And this is...?

Unbeknown to Evan, Grace has slipped in next to Evan.

GRACEGrace Thomas.

EVAN

Whatre you doing here?

(CONTINUED)


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71/100

70.

133 CONTINUED: 133

Parry-Jones spots Megan1/Huw and signals over to Jenkinsthat they should apprehend her.

Now, Megan1/Huw walks away from the Cairn leading Parry-Jones in pursuit...when Jenkins spots Megan2 - Dylan in'Megan garb' - opposite the Cairn. Jenkins decides to

follow after Megan2/Dylan...who walks away from the Cairnin the OPPOSITE DIRECTION.

Deliberately, the protesters slow the progress of Parry-Jones and Jenkins respectively.

134 134EXT. SITE

CLOSE ON: BOWEN, anxious in the JCB cab and trying to forcea smile as Caitlin photographs him.

135 135EXT. RIDGE ABOVE CAIRN

Parry-Jones has grabbed Megan1...unmasking Huw, now lesshis beard. The protesters JEER and jostle Parry-Jones.

Jenkins has grabbed Megan2, and unmasks Dylan.

136 136EXT. CAIRN

Megan3 - the real Megan - appears at the Cairn. Theprotesters JEERS turn to CHEERS, and Moley pops up to handMegan the GlynDwr Stone.

137 137EXT. RIDGE ABOVE CAIRN

Parry-Jones releases Megan1/Huw.

how welsh is my valley

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