"REMIX"
EPISODE 5
"SOUNDS LIKE TEAM SPIRIT"
WRITTEN BY
Fidel Namisi
7th December 2012
SUMMARY
Tooth reunites the Remix members and manages to lead them to the finals. Meanwhile, King Pin shows up to wreak his vengeance. Lindi makes peace with Titus, and Nails gets the recognition he so sorely craves.
Coal Stove Pictures 3 Stiemens Street, Braamfontein JHB
011 403 1446 (082) 2909093 ACT ONE
EXT. CHURCH (ESTABLISHING) - DAY
We are back in our now familiar church.
INT. TITUS'S OFFICE - DAY
TIGHT on KIDY. Wiping tears from her eyes.
KIDY
I used to be such a good girl,
moruti. I don't know what happened.
She rummages through her bag, sniffing. TITUS offers her a
kleenex from the pack on his table.
KIDY (CONT'D)
It was Satan.
She blows noisily, breaks into a fit of coughing.
KIDY (CONT'D)
I spent the whole night crying.
(beat, hopeful)
I couldn't even eat this morning.
TITUS
Guilt is a terrible thing my
daughter. Terrible thing.
Kidy chokes back tears, forces another bout of coughing.
TITUS (CONT'D)
We are all sinners. True - some of
us are bigger sinners than others
but--
She sobs, clears her throat loud and long.
KIDY
(hoarse from crying)
Water. Some water please, moruti.
TITUS
I'll get some tea.
He leaves. At the sound of door slamming SHUT, Kidy's head
snaps up. The facade drops.
She's a woman on a mission. Machine-like, she crosses over to
the filing cabinet. Rifles through it.
Come on-- Come on--
BINGO! She's found it. She holds up a file, glances at the
first page.
CLOSE ON TOOTH'S MUGSHOT.
She slams the cabinet shut and crosses back to her seat.
Mission accomplished. And it's just in time as the door opens
and --
TITUS (CONT'D)
Sam will bring it shortly.
He sits on the edge of the table. Kidy hides her face in her
kleenex.
TITUS (CONT'D)
As I was saying, evil is not the
answer child.
KIDY
Yes, moruti. Of course.
Kidy blows hard into the kleenex, covers her face to hide the
glint in her eye.
EXT. TARYN'S APARTMENT HALLWAY - DAY
We are outside Taryn's apartment door. It opens to reveal--
TARYN
What do you want?
And the unceremonious greeting is reserved for none other
than --
TOOTH
I need to ask you something.
(beat)
Can I come in?
TARYN
Sorry. We have a strict policy
against criminals, pirates and
gintsas in this building.
She wheels around. TOOTH sticks his foot in the door.
TOOTH
Nine-nine I deserve that. All I
need is a minute. That's all.
TARYN considers this.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
I won't even dirty your chairs by
sitting.
He cracks a hopeful grin - the million dollar smile. ON
Taryn. Deadpan. She turns around and walks back in, leaving
the door open. Tooth follows.
INT. CHURCH KITCHEN - DAY
LINDI lugs in some plastic bags full of groceries. Starts
packing them away.
TITUS
How's school?
Lindi tenses. She turns to face him.
LINDI
Fine.
(beat)
Thanks.
TITUS takes one of the grocery bags, starts unpacking.
TITUS
We'll organize a new group of
volunteers soon. I don't like you
missing school to help out here.
LINDI
I was free this morning.
TITUS
Then you should be studying.
Lindi knows an argument's coming. She falls silent. Carries
on packing things away. Titus lets it go and continues to why
he's here.
TITUS (CONT'D)
I made a mistake about Tooth.
Lindi pauses. Let this hang there for a beat.
TITUS (CONT'D)
Kidy was here just now.
(beat, still hard for him)
She was lying.
ON LINDI. Did she hear right?
LINDI
She's not pregnant?
Titus shakes his head.
TITUS
No. She just wanted money.
Lindi sobs. Everything that she's been through. The betrayal.
The pain. The loss. All of it comes out. She chokes back the
tears. Titus puts an arm on her shoulder.
TITUS (CONT'D)
Come home Lindi. Everything will be
just fine if you come home.
Talk about bad timing. Lindi can't handle this right now. She
walks out. OUT ON Titus. Troubled. Not sure what the next
step is now.
END ACT ONE
ACT TWO
INT. RADIO STATION - DAY
On-air music plays in the background. MPHO, the hip, leather
jacketed and faded jeans radio presenter, and TOOTH, are at
the booth. TARYN is seated off mic, thumbs flying all over
her phone.
TARYN
You owe me big time for this Tooth.
If you say anything dumb and I get
fired I swear I'll --
TOOTH
Auska-worry sis. Just make sure
everyone's listening.
TARYN
And it looks like I'm doing what?
MPHO
And we're back on in five--four--
He mimes three--two--one. He cues up the mics.
MPHO (CONT'D)
(into mic)
You're listening to the pulse of
Orlando East, keeping it real for
amajitas e'Ndofaya. We're back in
studio with artist Tooth, from the
kwaito duo Tooth and Nails.
(beat)
So Tooth. You told us how you were
busted pirating your own music and
how you had to do community service
for it. But the journey didn't end
there?
TOOTH
(into mic )
Sho Mpho, it didn't. I had the
chance to work with the best talent
ko- Youth Harvest. But then I
messed up again. Story of my life
mfowethu.
EXT. CAR WASH - DAY
LUNGI'S watching his car getting washed. The doors are open .
The radio is on.
TOOTH
(on the radio)
I got greedy.
And I tried to take some short
cuts. And without realizing it I
ended up using my friends.
Lungi looks off. This resonates with him.
TOOTH (PRE-LAP) (CONT'D)
(on the radio)
It was a stupid plan.
INT. RADIO STATION - DAY
TOOTH
(into mic)
I recorded all the songs we were
prepping, and I was going to make
ama-cd and sell them undercover.
Mara I got busted ukugera.
MPHO
Caught red-handed.
TOOTH
Big time. Grand grand I deserved
it.
INT. TARYN'S APARTMENT, KITCHEN - DAY
LINDI leaning on the counter, chewing a sandwich. Her
cellphone is on, tuned into the radio station.
TOOTH (V.O.)
But why I came on air is because I
want Remix, and all the guys ko
kasi and the whole world to hear me
say hade. I didn't mean to mess it
up for everyone.
Lindi hangs on every word he says.
TOOTH (PRE-LAP)
(on the radio)
And majitas. If you're listening--
INT. FANCY CAR - DAY
THEMBI and NIKI are in NIKI'S CAR. Engulfed by shopping bags.
Niki turns up the volume on the radio.
TOOTH (V.O.)
--I'd just like to ask for a second
chance. Coz you guys are the best
people I've ever worked with.
Niki and Thembi look at each other. They make 'aaah' motions
with their mouths.
TOOTH (PRE-LAP)
(on the radio)
And I know that--
INT. RADIO STATION - DAY
TOOTH
(into mic)
-- I don't deserve to have a team
like you guys. But if you can find
it in your hearts... to forgive me.
The silence hangs there for a beat. MPHO recovers.
MPHO
Sho mfethu. And that's our AM drive
feature for today bafwethu.
(beat)
Let us know what you think. Should
Remix forgive Tooth and get back
together, or should they go their
separate ways. The number is three
four zero nine six. Smses charged
at one rand fifty. Three four zero
nine six. Let us know what you
think.
He cues up the music. As it fills the room--
NAILS (PRE-LAP)
It's just like him.
INT. PASTOR JEFF'S OFFICE - DAY
PASTOR JEFF turns off his old school stereo. He looks up at
SAM and NAILS.
NAILS
Pulling a stunt like this.
PASTOR JEFF
Do not step on the crushed reed
Nails.
OFF Nail's puzzled look.
PASTOR JEFF (CONT'D)
Your brother has stooped to
conquer. Do likewise.
Pastor Jeff regards them for a beat, to let the message sink
in. And leaves. Sam takes out his phone. It's a no brainer
for him.
SAM
(rattling as he types)
Technically, if they didn't include
VAT in these SMS costs, we'd be
paying like one rand twenty. Plus
VAT it comes one rand thirty six
cents. But then they round it up
coz who's going to pay thirty six
cents?
Nails isn't listening. He takes out his phone. Stares at it.
It's a tough decision.
INT. RADIO STATION - DAY
MPHO stands and leaves TOOTH and TARYN alone. Taryn is
impossible to read.
EXT. KING PIN'S WAREHOUSE (ESTABLISHING) - DAY
We are outside a warehouse or godown of some sort.
INT. KING PIN'S WAREHOUSE - DAY
TWO WORKMEN, in BLUE OVERALLS, one in a BLUE CAP and another
in a BEANIE, stacking up boxes.
PICK UP AND FOLLOW KING PIN as he walks past them, KIDY in
tow.
KING PIN
What makes you think I'll pay for
it?
KIDY
Coz you want it.
(beat, plaintive)
And I need the money.
KING PIN
All my money's tied up here Kidy. I
need to pay for more workers.
Kidy pulls the file out of her bag.
KIDY
I'm cheap.
KING PIN
I know.
She hands him the file. King Pin glances over it casually.
KIDY
Two hundred. I can't go lower.
King Pin's eyes pause. And linger for a second on something.
His resumes his tone, even more nonchalant and dismissive.
KING PIN
There's nothing here I don't know
already. A clipper. Final offer.
Take it or leave it.
Kidy snatches back the file.
KING PIN (CONT'D)
What use is it to you?
Kidy hesitates. King Pin grins. He knows he's got her.
INT. CHURCH AUDITORIUM - DAY
LUNGI, TARYN, LINDI, NIKI, THEMBI, PASTOR JEFF AND TITUS face
off with TOOTH and SAM.
TARYN
Three hundred and eleven people
voted. Only one was against.
Titus coughs.
NIKI
So we must just start afresh as if
you didn't try to rob us?
Tooth rummages in his back-pack, takes out a CD.
TOOTH
This is it. This is everything. I
don't have another copy anywhere.
It's yours.
They stare at the CD in his hands. No one moves.
Pastor Jeff steps forward and takes the CD.
PASTOR JEFF
That takes guts Tooth. Thank you.
He gives the CD over to Nails.
PASTOR JEFF (CONT'D)
You have one week till the
regionals. If I were you, I'd stop
talking and start rehearsals
because we are competing for only
one spot at Nationals.
The REMIX members trade glances. Lindi gives in.
LINDI
Forgive and forget guys.
TARYN
This is your last chance Tooth.
And with that the tension is lifted. They all unwind. Tooth
eases - the storm is over.
TOOTH
Okay then. Let's get started.
Nails? What do you have for us? I
was thinking maybe--
KING PIN
(O.S.)
Wow? So this is that Remix what
what, hey?
They turn towards the entrance to see--
KING PIN. Striding in. Like a boss.
PASTOR JEFF
Brother Nkosi. It's been--
KING PIN
A year. Been busy. Trying to keep
honest.
(for Tooth's benefit)
Unlike some people.
TOOTH
Hey wena. I just confessed on
radio. I don't have any more
secrets.
KING PIN
Then explain this.
He holds up the file.
TITUS
How did you get that?
Titus looks around at the pairs of eyes asking him questions.
KING PIN
(re: Tooth)
From his beloved girlfriend. You
need to be more careful who you let
into your office moruti.
(beat, ominously)
So, it seems that our boy here
hasn't completed his community
service.
TOOTH
That's a lie!
KING PIN
Check it yourself. That is your
hand writing Pastor?
Titus glances at the file. Gulps hard.
KING PIN (CONT'D)
While your friends were busy
working, you were running around
doing your own thing.
(beat)
You've completed thirty five out of
fifty hours.
ON Tooth. Sweating. A cornered animal. He senses what's
coming. King Pin grabs the file back from Titus.
KING PIN (CONT'D)
According to --your file-- you were
supposed to finish your hours last
week otherwise...
(reads)
Criminal proceedings may be
initiated.
(to Jeff and Titus,
threatening)
Why wasn't this reported? You were
accomplices in this. If the
department found out about this
they could shut down this whole
thing. Imagine the scandal.
(beat)
I don't know if the Praise and
Worship Competition board would
want to be associated with a church
that's in the papers for all the
wrong reasons.
PASTOR JEFF
What do you want?
King Pin grins at Tooth.
KING PIN
I want my money and equipment back.
TOOTH
You can take the equipment. But I
don't have any money.
KING PIN
Then you'll work for me. I need
workers at my warehouse. No pay.
You can work off the rest of your
hours there.
TOOTH
Work for you? Never.
KING PIN
Otherwise I go to the Department
and I go to the newspapers.
(beat)
I hope the Praise and Worship
people will let a church that's
being investigated compete. It will
do so much for their image.
He eyes each of them in turn. The man is not kidding.
ON Tooth. Mind spinning. He looks around the room. Looks at
the effort. The sacrifices that have been made. He decides.
END ACT TWO
ACT THREE
INT. KING PIN'S WAREHOUSE - DAY
TOOTH, in blue overalls, stacks boxes inside the warehouse.
KING PIN is seated some way off away from him. In a camping
chair. Buried beneath a soccer magazine. Feet up. A beer at
his side
Tooth takes one look at King Pin. He registers a mixture of
despondency and disgust.
His phone rings.
VOICE (V.O.)
Tooth! Where the hell are you?
TOOTH
(harsh whisper into phone)
I just got held up but I'm --
VOICE (V.O.)
I'm sick and tired of your stories
man. Vukani's not in today. Get
here in thirty minutes or else.
TOOTH
I'll try.
VOICE (V.O.)
What?
King Pin looks up. Tooth turns away, shielding the phone.
TOOTH
I said I'll do my best.
VOICE (V.O.
You're best's not good enough.
You're fired. You hear me? F-A-Y-A
D.
The line goes dead. Tooth stares at the phone.
KING PIN
Hey! You! Back to work!
Tooth breathes hard. Temper mounting. He swallows back his
anger, picks up another box. This is bullshit.
INT. CHURCH AUDITORIUM - DAY
REMIX are seated on the stage, each with a song sheet in
hand. NAILS is facing them.
NAILS
So I guess the first thing we need
to decide is who's going to sing
lead.
He looks around. No takers.
NAILS (CONT'D)
Lindi.
LINDI
I think Taryn should sing lead.
And that takes everyone by surprise.
TARYN
What?
LINDI
You've worked so hard for this
sana. I can't take that away from
you. You sing lead.
Taryn takes a second to understand this. She knows how much
this means to Lindi. She blinks back tears. Lindi hugs her.
TARYN
Thanks friend.
LINDI
You deserve it sana.
NIKI
Okay. So like this is awkward.
LUNGI
(re: Nails)
And I guess you'll sing lead?
Nails regards Lungi for a second.
NAILS
No.
(beat)
You will.
Lungi is caught off guard. He didn't expect this.
LUNGI
Wait? But I -- aren't we--
NAILS
Aren't we what?
LUNGI
I just thought coz--
NAILS
You're the best tenor here Lungi.
This isn't about me.
There it is. Nails has done what is so hard for Lungi to do,
to let someone else shine. Lungi nods. He's gotten the point.
NAILS (CONT'D)
Okay. We're supposed to prepare at
least five songs. Three minutes
each.
And as we leave Nails handing out more song sheets we..
CUT TO:
INT. KING PIN'S WAREHOUSE - DAY
TOOTH grabbing a stack of boxes. Tries to lift them off the
ground. Too heavy. He tries again.
BEANIE and BLUE CAP are sprawled some feet away, sipping
mageus, bored.
KING PIN walks in.
KING PIN
Hey! There's been a dead dog
outside our gate for a week. Which
one you drunks ran over it.
BLUE CAP
You know we don't drive moes.
KING PIN
So you just left it there? You
don't care what customers will
think?
Blue Cap and Beanie exchange a look. Nope. They don't.
KING PIN (CONT'D)
Get rid of it. It's stinking!
Blue Cap and Beanie don't stir.
BEANIE
We're on break.
King Pin zeroes in on Tooth.
KING PIN
Tooth. Get moving.
Tooth can't believe his ears.
TOOTH
But these guys are just--
KING PIN
Move!
Tooth drops the boxes and storms out, annoyed. King Pin
follows. Blue Cap and Beanie snigger. They're enjoying this.
INT. CHURCH AUDITORIUM - DAY
We're at the tail end of a rehearsal.
NAILS
I think we're ready guys.
He jots down on a notepad.
NAILS (CONT'D)
Joko Ea Hao, My God is Good, Ka
Thapelo, Uphakeme Bayede and Maye.
That's our five.
He looks at the faces starting back at him. Total dismay and
disillusionment.
NAILS (CONT'D)
Bafwethu. Is this a praise and
worship team or a funeral
procession?
Lindi plonks down on the stage.
LINDI
We need Tooth.
(beat, glances at Nails)
No offence.
SAM
But actually Tooth missed a whole
ton of rehearsals.
LINDI
I also did. But that doesn't mean
that we must just go without him.
LUNGI
But the dude made his choice.
NIKI
It was coz he didnt want to mess up
things for us Lungi.
TARYN
I say we stay focused and we move
on. A whole lot of this was his
fault.
THEMBI
And this was also his idea.
(beat)
Remix was Tooth's idea guys.
LINDI
Thembi's right.
TARYN
It doesn't matter if she's right.
Tooth's gone and we can't get him
back.
THEMBI
I know. I was just saying.
NAILS
Maybe there is a way guys.
TARYN
Let me guess. You want us to kidnap
him, and make him disappear until
the day of the competition.
NIKI
That's a crime, Taryn. We can't do
that.
Nails's mind is elsewhere. Coming up with something.
NIKI (CONT'D)
Nails? That's a felony.
Nails looks up.
NAILS
Guys. I have an idea. You won't
like it, but it may get us Tooth
back.
The REMIX members exchange quizzical looks.
INT. KING PIN'S WAREHOUSE - DAY
TOOTH sprawled on his back, wearing an odd smile. BEANIE and
BLUE CAP are piling boxes, noses cringed.
BEANIE
Bafwethu. Please bafwethu. Change
your clothes.
BLUE CAP
Or shower or something.
Tooth grins.
TOOTH
I'm on break.
The door swings opens to reveal --
NAILS
Ekse! Tooth ma Tooth.
TOOTH
Nails.
He's followed by LUNGI, LINDI, TARYN, NIKI, SAM and THEMBI.
KING PIN strolls in.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Ekse majitas. What are you guys
doing here.
KING PIN
You're free to go Tooth.
TOOTH
Eh? Free..What? But...
King Pin holds up a couple of CDs, a smile on his face. ON
Tooth. Realization sets in.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
No way guys. Mara we worked so hard
for this.
LINDI
But it's useless if you're not with
us at the competition.
Tooth takes this in. He doesn't quite know how to react.
Nails pats him on the back.
NAILS
Auska worry son. We'll make many
more tracks together.
If Tooth were the teary sort of guy he might just cry.
TOOTH
Thanks guys.
KING PIN
Pack your things and get out of
here.
Beat. He sniffs the air.
What's that smell?
Tooth snaps out of his reverie. Makes quick.
TOOTH
Let's get out of here.
He leads the way out.
NIKI
That was quick.
TOOTH
Don't ask.
He breaks into a run.
KING PIN (O.S.)
What's that smell?
BLUE CAP
It was that guy stinking up the
place.
KING PIN
Not it's not. It's that box. Open
it...
Beat. FOLLOW the REMIX members making a quick exit.
KING PIN (O.S.) (CONT'D)
(enraged)
Hey wena! Tooth. Come back here.
Toooooooooth!!
EXT. THEATRE (ESTABLISHING) - DAY
We are outside a theatre. The glass doors covered in posters.
Upright roll-up banners stand on opposite sides of the door.
"SA PRAISE AND WORSHIP REGIONAL QUALIFIERS".
Faint applause and cheers emanate from within. We follow the
sound to --
INT. THEATRE - DAY
The stage has been transformed from a bare theatrical space
to a full-on "Idols-esque" band stand. Banners hang from the
trusses. Multi-coloured lights play against the colorful
backdrop.
Even though the auditorium is only half-full of people
(because these are qualifiers, not finals) they are making
enough noise to fill a stadium. And they are cheering--
A GROUP BOWING ON STAGE.
We've caught the denoument of their performance.
The PRESENTER, TUMI, a gorgeous woman in a breathtaking
dress, prances in stage left.
TUMI
Ladies and gents, give it up for
Newborn.
She turns to the GROUP LEADER, a young man (mid-twenties) in
an oversized suit.
PRESENTER
Tell us, what inspired your song
choice.
GROUP LEADER
(nervous)
Well, Tumi. We were inspired by
having gone through betrayals by
people that we love, and then we
realized that the Lord Jesus is the
one person who'll never betray us.
TUMI
Wow! And I felt it coming through
your performance. Judges, what's
your take?
For the first time we notice a raised dais at the centre of
the front row, where the THREE JUDGES sit. A middle aged
black hipster - ANDILE, a black, OLD SCHOOL guy in a suit,
BRA ZAKES, and a forty-ish black woman -- BUSI -- who would
come across as attractive if she wasn't so stern.
ANDILE
For me personally. I could see you
guys have rehearsed. You've put a
lot of time and work into your
piece. And as far as I'm concerned,
you guys deserve to move to the
next round.
(turns to Busi)
Busi?
But never find out what Busi because we --
CUT TO:
INT. THEATRE BACKSTAGE - DAY
A GROUP comprising of six youthful artistes, THREE GUYS and
THREE GIRLS, stand waiting on the wings. Ready. They show a
sense of calm poise and preparedness. Professional. They are--
ANOINTED VOCALS (our faithful viewers will remember them from
Episode one).
LUNGI, TARYN, LINDI, THEMBI, NIKI, NAILS AND TOOTH are
watching them from further down the corridor.
NIKI
They think they're all that.
THEMBI
With a tenor like that guy, so
would I chomi.
SOPRANO DIVA
Excuse me.
SOPRANO DIVA (from Episode one) pushes past them. FOLLOW her
as she squeezes past the REMIX members, and stay on their
stupefied faces.
NAILS
Yaasas, how can they allow her to
sing?
SAM rapidly crosses himself.
NIKI
Chill bhuti. If she's all that, why
would she be singing with a small
group.
LUNGI
Anointed Vocals ain't small guys.
TARYN
Shut up, they're going on stage.
They look on as--
TUMI (O.S.)
Please welcome to the stage--
(beat, razzmatazz)
Anointed Vocals.
Muted applause filters in. The REMIX members register
despair.
THEMBI
Yo, bathong. We're going in after
them.
PASTOR JEFF
If you think positive, you'll be
positive.
They wheel around to find--
PASTOR JEFF (CONT'D)
Sorry I'm late. Came back here to
wish you all good luck.
LINDI
Did my--
Jeff's eyes answer her question. He feels the need to soften
the blow.
PASTOR JEFF
He said to wish you good luck. He
got held up at Church and--
TARYN
Hush...
Jeff wraps a supporting arm around Lindi's shoulder. At least
he came, right?
CUT TO:
INT. THEATRE STAGE - DAY
ANOINTED VOCALS is lined up on the stage.
The lights dim. Spotlights focus on the LEAD TENOR and the
SOPRANO DIVA.
Lead Tenor opens on a soulful, powerful note. Soprano Diva
blends in. It's ovewhelming and uplifting.
And just when we think this is going to be a two-person show--
The rest of Anointed Vocals JOINS in. It's only seven of them
on stage, but man, can they sing. The harmony is other
worldly. Their slow, rhythmic dancing is solemn and moving.
Soprano Diva sings a solo verse that climaxes in a piercing
high note. The audience is eating out of her hands by now.
And they end the song.
They're too cool to bow. It's obvious that they have set the
bar high, and whoever comes next is in some serious trouble.
CUT TO:
INT. THEATRE BACKSTAGE - DAY
Disbelief on the faces of REMIX.
NIKI
Shit.
PASTOR JEFF
In these circumstances, Nikiwe.
I'll let you get away with that.
TOOTH
Chila bafwethu. We can do this.
NAILS
Let's start with Joko Ea Hao.
Tooth regards Nails for a second. This is an inversion of
roles. Tooth senses what he has to do.
TOOTH
Good idea. Everyone ready?
Nods.
TUMI (O.S.)
Let's welcome onto the stage
(beat)
Remix...
THEMBI
Lungi, relax. Deep breath.
LUNGI
Deep breath? Ain't nobody got time
for that. Let's go.
They stride out onto the stage, masking their fear and lack
of confidence in a false assuredness.
INT. THEATRE STAGE - DAY
REMIX stands assembled on stage. TOOTH takes a step forward,
bows to the judges and whips around to face his team.
He gives Taryn a reassuring nod and --
TARYN LEADS THEM IN THEIR PERFORMANCE of "Joko Ea Hao".
It's upbeat and funky. An unexpected take on an old school
classic.
Within moments, the crowd is swaying from side to side,
enjoying the singing, the dancing, the entire spectacle of a
well-jacked musical machine.
Giving them something new.
PAN across the faces of the Remix members, enjoying
themselves. Embracing the satisfaction of knowing that this
is a job well done.
They wind up their performance in a soft decrescendo.
Stylish. Very stylish.
The audience BREAKS into rupturous applause. Settle on the
beaming faces of our singers. Their confidence is restored.
They'd better be going through to the next round because now--
THEY FINALLY BELIEVE THEY CAN DO THIS.
TUMI waltzes in from the wings.
TUMI
I think there won't be much debate
about that performance, right?
A chorus of "No's" and cheers from the crowd.
TUMI (CONT'D)
Judges? What do you have to say?
ANDILE
That was totally unexpected. I'm
totally blown away.
BUSI
It's not often that one sees such a
level of creativity and spontaneity
in a performance. Well done, all of
you.
The REMIX members exchange smiles. They're through!
BRA ZAKES
I'd just like to add something.
The tone of his voice warns them that there's a storm-a
coming.
BRA ZAKES (CONT'D)
Even though you guys are very
professional. And very polished. It
seems clear to me that you are not
quite there yet.
Beat. The Remix member's don't quite know what to make of
this. Bra Zakes continues off Tooth's quizzical gaze.
BRA ZAKES (CONT'D)
Praise and Worship isn't just about
singing and dancing. It's got to
come from inside. From your life of
faith and prayer. Otherwise it
would just be a concert.
Gulp! They didn't see that one coming. And they've got no
comeback whatsover. Bra Zakes has seen through what they
themselves had never realized.
BRA ZAKES (CONT'D)
So even though you're through to
the next round, I'd have to ask you
guys to really dig deep and give us
something we can believe. Thank
you.
That hangs there for a beat before Remix are jolted back to
reality by--
TUMI
Let's welcome onto the stage with a
warm round of applause Gospel
Adrenaline!
And Tooth hurries off the stage, followed by his teammates.
END ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
INT. BACKSTAGE REHEARSAL ROOM - DAY
The REMIX members congregate in the green room.
SAM
See? I told you guys to come to
church.
NIKI
Duh. Like we've been somewhere else
every afternoon for the last month?
Lungi sits in a corner.
LUNGI
I can't believe this. I've come too
far for this.
LINDI
We've all come too far for this.
PASTOR JEFF walks in.
PASTOR JEFF
Idle words will get you nowhere.
(beat, continues)
You need to humble yourselves, go
down on your knees and pray.
LUNGI
These are new Levis.
Jeff ignores him.
PASTOR JEFF
Who do you think gave you your
ability to sing?
SAM
Well, genetically speaking, it came
from--
Taryn gives him a sharp poke in the ribs. Shut up!
PASTOR JEFF
You all got your talents from
above. And to whom much is given,
much will be demanded of.
Beat. The mood is pensive as they process this sentiment that
they had forgotten about along the way.
PASTOR JEFF (CONT'D)
And that's what the judges want.
They want you all to look deep
inside your hearts and remember the
real reason for praise and worship.
(beat)
And it's got nothing to do with
trophies and competitions.
The message hits home. Silence for a beat until--
NAILS
Tooth, mfowethu. You should lead us
in a word of prayer.
Tooth looks up, surprised. Why him?
PASTOR JEFF
I think so too.
TARYN
But not like last time man, please.
Tooth weighs this. He searches for the words. Sees the eyes
focused on him.
TOOTH
Let us pray.
He clears his throat. Everyone bows their heads.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Modimo. In the book of Genesis you
said you created human beings to
work.
Stares of surprise and shock all around. CLOSE ON Lindi. She
can't believe Tooth reads the Bible. Tooth continues,
immersed in the realness of the moment.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Modimo. This is our span here. And
we want to do it well. For your
glory.
(beat, about to continue
but)
Amen.
A chorus of hesitant "Amens" from the other.
PASTOR JEFF
Amen.
(beat, grins)
I have to say, that's the best damn
prayer I've ever heard in my life.
SAM
Moruti! You cursed.
Jeff doesn't care. He gives Tooth a fatherly pat on the back.
The young man has finally got it.
OUT on Tooth. Serious. Thoughtful. A moment of epiphany as he
finally understands his purpose in life. A hand links up with
his.
He looks up to find Lindi smiling at him.
INT. THEATRE STAGE - DAY
MONTAGE
QUICK CUTS between different groups singing on stage.
-- Trios. Quartets. Quintets.
-- REMIX performing. They're ROCKING the stage.
-- THE JUDGES. Beaming. Giving them nods of approval.
--REMIX. Singing like they mean it. Like it's coming from
within.
--APPLAUSE. The audience is on its feet.
--REMIX beam their thanks and walk off stage as TUMI confers
with the judges.
CUT TO:
INT. THEATRE STAGE - DAY
TUMI catwalks onto the stage.
CLOSE on REMIX seated in the middle rows, on the edge of
their seats. In the row behind them, ANOINTED VOCALS. This is
it. The moment of judgement.
ON Tumi. On the stage.
TUMI
On behalf of the National Praise
and Worship competition team, the
judges and our sponsors, we'd like
to thank all the groups that have
given us such a spectacular
performance today.
WHOOPS and YELLS from the house. Someone screams "TUMI we
love you." Tumi laughs it off. Yes, she gets this all the
time.
TUMI (CONT'D)
And now, the final scores. After
the round competition, the two
teams that will compete for the one
spot in the National finals will be
decided by a simple tally of
points.
She pulls out a paper. The audience grows silent. Air
dripping with expectation.
She unfolds the paper.
TUMI (CONT'D)
In eighth position. With twenty
points.
(beat)
Zion Melody.
ARRGH! The ZION MELODY team is not at all impressed.
TUMI
Seventh. With twenty eight points.
Heavenly Cadence. Sixth. With
thirty four points. Prophecy. In
fifth position. With thirty nine
points. Joyful Noise.
(beat)
Fourth. With forty two points.
(beat, wait for it)
Newborn.
REMIX and ANOINTED VOCALS stir in excitement. The finish line
is close.
LINDI starts a hand-holding-chain in the row.
ON TUMI.
TUMI
Third. With forty four points.
(beat, keeps them waiting
for it)
Third. Is. Choirs of Angels.
REMIX leap out of their seats with screams of delight. Hugs.
Pats on the back. Tears.
They're through to the finals.
ANOINTED VOCALS behind them exchange cordial handshakes and
warm smiles. They'd been expecting this. They're so smug it
hurts.
CHOIRS OF ANGELS give each other sad embraces and nods. At
least they came third.
ON TUMI. Eyes widening.
TUMI (CONT'D)
But...But..in a totally unexpected
result.
REMIX quieten down. What now?
TUMI (CONT'D)
Anointed Vocals comes second with
forty five points. And
(screaming)
New Kids on the block - Remix -
come first with forty six points.
It's Remix and Anointed Vocals to
battle it out for the single spot
in the National Competition.
CLOSE ON Anointed Vocals. Confused. Did they hear that right?
ON REMIX. In silent disbelief.
TITUS
I knew you would beat them.
TITUS comes up behind them.
LINDI
Papa.
He gives Lindi a hug. Lindi springs into his hands --a little
girl.
LINDI
Moruti Jeff said you were too busy
to--
TITUS
I'm never too busy for my girl.
LINDI
You were here all the time?
TITUS
I never missed a single song.
(beat, quiet)
You sounded just like your mother.
And for the first time in a long while Lindi smiles at her
father.
TITUS
I'm sorry. For everything.
She hugs him tighter. The gap between father and daughter has
been bridged. All is forgiven.
The REMIX members look on, respecting the intimacy of moment.
INT. BACKSTAGE REHEARSAL ROOM - DAY
And we're back in the rehearsal room.
LUNGI
I've got it. "Yahweh".
TARYN
You only want to sing that because
of the solo at the end.
LUNGI
Yeah. So?
TARYN levels him with her stare. How can he be so selfish at
a time like this?
NIKI
We could do "Rivers of Zion".
THEMBI
That's a great idea, choma. We
could add that dance we did to
spice it up nyana.
She demonstrates.
NAILS
Thembi, we are performing in front
of morutis.
THEMBI
Yeah. So? They're men...
TOOTH looks up.
TOOTH
We're going to sing "Praise Him."
Nails face lights up.
NAILS
We'll nail "Praise Him."
TOOTH
You remember the dance moves right?
NIKI nods, illustrates the simple moves.
NIKI
One two. Turn turn. Step back.
Forward. Turn.
THEMBI and LINDI join in.
TARYN
There's only one problem.
They turn to face her. What now?
TARYN (CONT'D)
I only sang that song once,
remember guys?
SAM
Yes. With Rebecca.
Now this is a whole new problem that they hadn't thought
about. Silence for a beat.
TARYN
(re: Lindi)
But Lindi knows that song in her
sleep.
She nods at Lindi. Lindi is caught unawares.
LINDI
But--you're lead.
TARYN
You gave me a chance, chomie,
remember? Now it's my turn.
Lindi takes a moment to consider this. All the eyes around
the room are wishing her to do it. She breaks into a smile.
Humbled. Tooth is reinvigorated.
TOOTH
Okay. That's settled. Majitas, are
we ready to do this?
He moves to the middle of the room. Stretches out his hand.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Remix. On three.
The rest gather round him, join hands for a group shake.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
One two three...
All together now-- "REMIX".
SAM
Let's make it stink!
Taryn claps him over the head.
CUT TO:
INT. THEATRE STAGE - DAY
ANOINTED VOCALS on the stage.
The auditorium is silent. Lights are dimmed.
PAN ACROSS the taut faces of the REMIX members, watching from
the wings. The strain is palpable.
TARYN
Why do the flippin judges always
let them go first?
LINDI
Saving the best for last sana.
LUNGI
Hush. I'm trying to focus here.
TARYN
Go hush yourself.
The music is cued up.
And ANOINTED VOCALS begin their final performance.
They sing "I Belong To You". It's poignant piece with the
moving sentimentality of a negro spiritual.
The audience is wrapped in silence. Soaking in the emotion.
ANOINTED VOCALS are good. And THEY KNOW IT. Their calm
confidence seems to almost be nailing home the point that
they deserve that one place in the National Finals.
ON REMIX.
They're in awe. Overwhelmed by what they are listening to.
Cadence brought out their big guns. And they fire straight
through to the end.
The CROWD BRINGS DOWN THE HOUSE with their applause.
BACK ON REMIX.
Daunted.
TOOTH
Let's go.
FOLLOW Remix as they walk their way to the stage. Taking in
the challenge and responding with all the professional focus
they can muster. Filtering out TUMI welcoming them onto
stage. Blocking out the yells of the crowd. Pushing aside
their own fears.
Because THIS IS IT.
CUT TO:
INT. THEATRE STAGE - DAY
REMIX assembled on the stage.
Tooth bows to the house. Turns around, arms uplifted. Ready
to make magic happen.
ON LINDI.
Her eyes are trained on--
THE THEATRE DOORS.
A WELL DRESSED MAN stands there, looking around for a seat.
It's PERCY.
ON LINDI
She gulps. The music is cued.
Nothing from Lindi.
TOOTH clears his throat, tries to get her attention. Lindi's
eyes are frozen on the door.
CLOSE ON THE WELL DRESSED MAN.
As he finds a seat and takes it. Settles down and looks up.
It's PERCY.
BACK ON LINDI
Frozen.
TOOTH
(harsh whisper)
Lindi.
Everyone looks at her. Expectation is mounting.
ON TITUS, looking on. Concern on his face. Desperately
wanting Lindi to snap out of whatever the hell it is she
needs to snap out of.
ON LINDI. Apprehension evolves into a full on panic attack.
SHE RUNS OFF STAGE.
A wave of murmurs from the audience. TOOTH whips around to
face the judges.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Hade. I mean, sorry. We need a
minute. It's er--something she ate.
He gives them his million dollar smile.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
(sotto voce, to REMIX)
Stay here.
And he bolts out after Lindi.
The REMIX members trade embarrassed looks.
INT. BACKSTAGE ROOM - DAY
LINDI rocking back and forth in a chair. Bundle of nerves.
TOOTH is beside her. The look on his face says it all. She's
come clean.
LINDI
I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
TOOTH
You didn't want to tell me this
before?
LINDI
I tried but-- I'm so sorry.
TOOTH
(looks off, anger
mounting)
Son of a--
Tooth paces. The things he'll do to Percy when he gets his
hands on -- He realizes their situation. This is neither the
time nor the place.
He gets a hold of himself. Approaches Lindi, crouches beside
her. Close. Intimate.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Listen to me Lindi. I want to kill
that guy right now. But he's not
important. You are.
LINDI
I can't.
TOOTH
I need you to find that strength
you found that night at the
shebeen.
Lindi takes a moment.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Okay?
She cracks.
LINDI
That was different Tooth. Now there
are so many eyes. Just waiting for
me to fail.
Tooth takes her hands in his.
TOOTH
Lindi. Nine nine you are the best
soprano I've ever heard. Why do you
think Taryn let you sing the solo
in the final?
Beat. Lindi's uncertainties lined across her face.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Those people out there want to hear
you sing. We want to hear you sing.
And you want to hear you sing.
(beat)
Dammit, the whole world wants to
hear you sing. So go out there and
give it everything you've got.
(beat)
Because that's you. That's the
woman I love.
She looks into his eyes and sees the truth there. Calm.
Reassuring. She holds him tight, pulls back from the hug.
Transformed. Her eyes lit up.
CUT TO:
INT. THEATRE STAGE - DAY
CLOSE ON Lindi's intense eyes.
PULL OUT to reveal--
Lindi on stage. Looking at the crowd. Brimming with
confidence.
TOOTH raises his arms with finality.
And Lindi BREAKS FORTH into a solo that would put Whitney
Houston (may her soul rest in peace) and all the divas that
came after her to shame.
And as the remixed groovy beats of "Praise Him" rock the
theatre.
The REMIX members sing and dance their hearts out.
It's a start contrast to the preceding performance. They are
lively, jovial. Funky.
They're kicking it. And enjoying every moment.
The house is ON IT'S FEET. Moving to the music. Remix rocking
this crowd as only the best house DJs could.
And right at the climax of their well-timed, perfectly
harmonized spectacle--
The tempo drops back to the soulful, slow opening. Lindi hits
every closing note of the final lines with a raw perfection
that makes them come alive with emotion. The audience is
hushed, wondering how such a small body can make such a
powerful, mature and rich tone.
And so do we.
Her final note lingers in the air.
Everyone remains in their seat. And we are also left
wondering whether or not this has come to an end. Because the
truth is--
We don't want it to. WE WANT IT TO CONTINUE FOREVER.
A sound breaks the still magic of the auditorium.
CLAP-- CLAP-- CLAP.
ON TITUS, rising to his feet with a slow clap. Jeff, beside
him, does likewise. So too the people beside them.
And in a few seconds, like a wildfire sweeping through Table
Mountain, a hurricane of astonished applause takes the
audience by storm and doesn't let them go what feels like a
good minute.
THIS IS MOVING ladies and gentlemen.
This is Praise and Worship as it's meant to be.
OUT on the beaming faces of REMIX. Close on LINDI. Close on
Tooth. Seventh heaven.
ON TUMI.
Strutting onto the stage.
TUMI
Thank you. Thank you for two
wonderful performances.
(beat)
They've brought it down to the
wire. I'd hate to have to be one of
the judges right now.
The crowd quietens down. Anticipation mounting. Tumi turns to
the judges.
TUMI (CONT'D)
Judges. Their fates are in your
hands. Which of these two groups,
will represent Gauteng in the
National Praise and Worship Finals?
Beat. The judges exchange looks.
TUMI (CONT'D)
Your votes please.
ANDILE stirs, clears his throat.
ANDILE
Mina. I was quite impressed by
Anointed Vocals. They were tight.
They were professional. But in
terms of taking me where I wanted
to go--
(beat, deep breath)
I'll have to go with Remix.
TARYN screams and hugs Sam. Remix are tingling with
excitement. Anointed Vocals look on in determined silence.
It's not over yet.
TUMI
Busi?
BUSI
Well Tumi. Personally. I feel that
both groups came here with a clear
agenda to get into the finals. They
both put their hearts and souls
into it, and if I could have two
teams going through to Nationals
I'd vote for them both.
(beat)
But since I can't. I'd have to go
with--
(beat)
Anointed Vocals.
A SHRILL CHEER from Soprano Diva. The Anointed Vocal members
high five each other.
TUMI
This is a true photo finish. Bra
Zakes. It's up to you now. Who's
going to go through to the National
Finals?
ZAKES is quiet. His mind is crunching away. He looks at
Anointed. Looks at Remix. Back at Anointed. Back at Remix.
Tooth bows his head, awaiting the verdict that will determine
whether all his efforts come to fruition or to naught.
And with that we--
END ACT FOUR
ACT FOUR
INT. THEATRE STAGE - DAY
ON TOOTH's anxious face. Eyes trained --
ON BRA ZAKES. He takes a deep breath.
BRA ZAKES
You've both worked so hard. It
kills me to have to disappoint one
of you.
(beat)
But for me, neh, the main thing is
- what do I think mzansi wants to
hear?
(beat)
And I'd have to say its-- ANOINTED
VOC--
AAAAARRRRHHH! ANOINTED VOCALS go ape-shit. They're flipping
out. Screams. Shouts. Joy. Tears. Hugs. And relief.
ON REMIX. Deflated. Incarnating the agony of deafeat.
TOOTH goes over to the LEAD TENOR and shakes his hand. Nails
follows suit, and in an instant, they're all exchanging
congratulatory hand shakes. The small gesture that keeps
REMIX's dignity intact.
BRA ZAKES (CONT'D)
I'm not done yet.
What was that? They all spin around to face Zakes, in wrapt
attention.
BRA ZAKES (CONT'D)
Remix aren't through to Nationals,
but you deserve a special mention
for giving mzansi something it's
never heard before. Thank you.
Tooth steps forward, takes the mic from TUMI.
BRA ZAKES (CONT'D)
Thank you. Mara the guy who deserve
the praise is my auti here. Nails.
The REMIX members shout and whoop. Giving Nails the acclaim
he so rightly deserves.
And Nails is actually blushing.
NIKI
You deserve it bhuti.
She pulls him into a tight hug. Tooth pats Nails shoulder.
Lead Tenor wanders over.
LEAD TENOR
I hate to say it but -- you guys
deserved to win.
Tooth smiles his thanks.
ON Lungi and Sam, sharing a look of mutual understanding.
They grab Nails and hoist him shoulder high. The girls YELL.
They carry him off the stage in a mini-procession.
The house crowds around them, patting their backs, whistling,
whooping. It's like "Rocky" without the "Adrian!"
TUMI is on stage trying to say something but getting drowned
out by the cheers of the fans squeezed around REMIX.
Bra Zakes works his way through the crowd. He reaches out to
Nails, business card in hand.
BRA ZAKES
Here's my card. Call me.
Nails takes the offered card, mouths his thanks.
OFF his radiant face.
EXT. CHURCH - DAY
Braai smoke wafts through the air. Music blaring. TOOTH and
NAILS working the decks. TITUS, in a kiss-the-chef apron,
turns some chicken over on a sizzling BRAAI STAND. LINDI, his
lovely assistant, takes a full tray, playing the waitress.
In the middle of the yard, the REMIX members are kicking it.
LUNGI dances with THEMBI. SAM with TARYN.
And ELMARIE VAN ZYL is busting some awkward moves with BISHOP
ZERUBBABEL PHAKATI. It looks like they're both cult fans of
Grease.
The Bishop dances over to Tooth and Nails.
BISHOP PHAKATI
So I hear you boys are very
talented.
TOOTH
It's what they say ko strateng.
BISHOP PHAKATI
(to Tooth )
We've been looking for sometime now
for some one to teach music to the
other praise teams in the diocese.
It's a lot of work. Full time. You
interested?
Tooth trades looks with Nails. We can see -- he's not leaving
his boy behind.
TOOTH
Sounds like too much work for one
man.
The Bishop gets his drift. Glances at Nails.
BISHOP PHAKATI
I'm sure we can work something out.
TOOTH
Then you've found yourself some
music teachers moruti.
BISHOP PHAKATI
Amen to that. Let's speak about it
on Monday. For now, enjoy!
He dances off. Tooth and Nails are dumbfounded. They've just
gotten their first official jobs in real life. Nails pats his
back.
NAILS
We're now employed son.
Tooth is staggered.
TOOTH
Oh my God. I can afford to pay rent
now.
(beat)
I need a drink.
ON PASTOR JEFF as he mans the cooler box. TOOTH wanders over
to him.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Ekse ntate. Kikela ispinza.
JEFF gives him the beady eye. Tooth ought to know better. He
rummages within the cooler box.
PASTOR JEFF
Cool drinks only. Grapetiser.
Orange juice. Coke.
TOOTH
(pointing)
Hau! And the zamalek?
Tooth pulls out a dumpie from the cooler box. Jeff reels -
how on earth did that get in there?
TOOTH (CONT'D)
(winks)
Sharp bhoza.
And he takes off, dumpie in hand, before Jeff can recover
from the shock. Tooth shoots a sly look at--
NAILS. Grinning. At his feet, four or five more dumpies. They
trade a thumbs up.
NIKI
Hey bhuti. Wanna dance?
NAILS
Er-- sho. Mara I'm busy deejaying
and--
NIKI
Ow come on.
She drags him away from the deck and onto the "dance floor."
She makes a clumsy effort at sbujwa. It's everything Nails
can do to keep from laughing, but he joins in wholeheartedly,
the bond between these two growing.
ON TOOTH. Shaking his head in disbelief.
LINDI
IKuku?
Tooth snaps around to find LINDI holding out a tray laden
with chicken. Off his is confusion around the double-meaning.
TOOTH
Sho. I mean--no. I mean--
(beat)
Sho. Thanks.
He picks a piece. Lindi smiles at him, lingers for a beat.
The music changes from a house groove to a slow R&B song.
Tooth sees an opening.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
(flawless Xhosa)
Ungathanda ukudansa?
Lindi falters. Looks at the tray. Tooth registers Lungi and
Thembi are dancing close by. He taps Lungi's shoulder.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Ekse Lungstar.
Lungi jerks around -- Tooth grabs the tray and dumps it in
his hands.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Sho bafwethu.
LUNGI
Hey! What the--
But Tooth's already swept Lindi away in his arms, slow
dancing across the yard.
THEMBI
Sho. Thanks. I was starving.
She picks a piece off the tray. And we leave Lungi looking
put out and --
SETTLE ON TITUS. Scowling. Watching Tooth and Lindi as they
slow dance together.
CLOSE ON TOOTH AND LINDI. The sexual tension between these
two is heavy.
TOOTH
Listen. I've been meaning to--
LINDI
I know.
Tooth gazes at her. Questions in his eyes. And in our minds.
Fortunately Lindi fills us in.
LINDI (CONT'D)
I don't know if I'm ready to get
into something again right now,
Tooth.
Tooth face falls. But he smiles and nods. A true gentleman.
She sees his pain, offers him a ray of hope--
LINDI (CONT'D)
But if you can wait--
TOOTH
(I'm serious about you)
I'll wait.
She searches his eyes, and finds the confirmation she seeks
there. He means it. She returns his smile, leans in and
kisses him on the cheek.
She pulls away and leaves. Tooth watches her go, renewed
resolution all over his face.
The woman has just walked away with his heart. But this time
we know he'll wait for her.
He turns to watch Nails and Niki. Dancing away. A nostalgic,
longing in his eyes. Wondering why he couldn't be that lucky
with love.
BZZZZZZ! Feedback from the microphone breaks the moment.
ANGLE ON PASTOR JEFF, on the DJ Decks.
PASTOR JEFF
How do you turn off this thing.
Nails rushes to his assistance, turns down the music.
PASTOR JEFF (CONT'D)
(beat, into mic)
Ahem. I just thought I'd say a few
words--
GROANS and MOANS from the small crowd.
PASTOR JEFF (CONT'D)
(quickly)
It'll be brief. Brevity is the soul
of wit, heh heh--
(beat, off their deadpan
stares)
Okay. Okay. Firstly I want to thank
Bishop Phakhati and Miss Van Zyl
for joining us.
THEMBI
Ayoba!
NAILS
Woop woop!
PASTOR JEFF
Yes. And I would also like to thank
Pastor Titus. For being the best
right hand man I could ever wish
for.
Someone whistles in the crowd. ON TITUS. Abashed. Not used to
the attention.
PASTOR JEFF (CONT'D)
And I'd like to thank Remix. For
putting Youth Harvest back on the
map. And even though we didn't make
it to the finals--mzansi now knows
(beat)
That we are coming!
Yells and shrieks cut him off. Jeff grins. Finds Titus by the
braai stand.
PASTOR JEFF (CONT'D)
Titus. Please. A word.
He offers him the mic.
ON TITUS. Hesitant.
Tooth starts a slow chant.
TOOTH
Titus--Titus--
The other join in. "Titus--Titus--Titus."
CLOSE on Lindi. Radiant. Chanting with the rest.
Titus shrugs -- Okay. Fine. Whatever. Pulls off his apron and
makes his way to the DJ deck amidst raucous cheering.
TITUS
Thank you.
(beat, matter-of-fact)
Firstly I want to thank Bishop
Phakati for --
BISHOP PHAKATI
(yells)
Protocol has already been observed
Pastor. lol!
Laughter from the crowd. Titus smiles. Continues.
TITUS
Yes. Alright.
(beat, weighing his words)
I remember that first day when I
met Tooth, Thembi, Nails and Niki.
We got off to a bumpy start--
THEMBI
(yells)
Sorry?
More laughter..
TITUS
(forcing himself to be
serious )
But over the past two months, I've
come to learn a lot from you --
guys. And I'd like to thank you all
-
(beat, looks at Lindi)
For everything you've taught me.
(beat)
Ndiyabulela.
He puts down the mic and walks off the stage. Tooth raises a
round of clapping. The others follow suit. Heartfelt and
warm.
They thought they'd never see the human side of Titus.
Tooth moves to the stage, picks up the mic.
TOOTH
Ey guys. I want to say a big thank
you to -- Sam.
ON Sam. Pleasantly surprised.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Thanks for keeping us on the
straight and narrow.
Sam blushes. Taryn smiles at him, gives him a playful shove.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
(off Taryn's smile)
And Taryn. You always kept us
thinking straight.
TARYN
Next time I want pay.
Chuckles from the crowd.
TOOTH
Niki. Thanks for helping us see
things from -- your -- from the
other side.
Niki smiles, doubtful of the compliment.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Lungi. You kept us looking good.
Lungi straightens his sports coat. You're damn right.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Thembi.
(beat, off her expectant
look)
Well. Thanks for being--you.
And that's good enough for her. She beams her gratitude.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Lindi.
(beat, searching for the
words)
That strength you found inside. It
inspired us all.
TITUS wraps an arm around Lindi. She also inspired him.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
And lastly. To the heart and soul
of Remix. The man who made all of
tis possible.
He looks at his friend. His boy. His brother.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Nails!
And that just does it. Their acclamation is definitive. And
deafening. Nails is confused and overwhelmed and embarrassed
at the same time.
ON TOOTH.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
Before the last get down. Moruti
Jeff and Titus. We have something
special for you.
He nods to the rest of REMIX. They assemble next to him.
TOOTH (CONT'D)
This one is a special one. It's not
for any competition or anything.
It's to say thank you to the
Bishop, to the morutis and to God.
ON REMIX. Beaming. PAN across the bright, eager faces of
LUNGI, SAM, NAILS, THEMBI, NIKI AND LINDI.
They BURST into song.
FADE OUT.
END OF SHOW