Santouri The Music Man

Santouri The Music Man
By
Dariush Mehrjuii

Translated by Mamak Nourbakhsh

1-Subway Station-present

Ali is ascending the stairs. His voice is heard over his picture and that of the crowd.

Ali Voice Over

When I came up the subway station stairs the sky was dark and ugly as always. The air was filled with smoke and I didn’t know that this would be the last time I would inhale this filthy air.

2-Various shots of Ali in a cab on the highway-continuation

The music starts. As the volume of the music is lowered Ali’s voice is heard over the picture.

Ali

The pain of my ill-fated life bear I,
With it well acquainted am I,
Your words do my wounds…
O, Loved One!

Ali Voice Over

I haven’t felt like working since Hanieh, my wife, left. I’ve refused some performances, others I just don’t turn up at, others I just fall asleep in and at still others I just burst out crying.

Ali

Loneliness, a bitter nightmare,
O, Loved One!
My heart is lost in your absence!
O, Loved One!
…
O, Loved One!

3-Cultural Center-Flashback

Ali is performing at the cultural center. As the performance ends the audience rises to applaud him.

Ali Voice Over

Like the night at the exhibition concert, I was so drunk that I forgot Hanieh had left me. I thought that she was sitting in her usual seat in the front row looking at me with adoration in her eyes. I announced over the microphone,

Ali (facing the audience)

‘Thank you very much! Tonight there is someone very special here whom I have to thank… Hanieh, my wife.’

Ali sees Hanieh’s empty seat in the front row.

Ali Voice Over

The truth whacked me on the head-Hanieh was not there.

The audience watches him in silence.

4-Highway-present-continuation

Ali is sitting in a taxi driving on.

Ali Voice Over

I was drunk and high all the time those days. I made serious blunders that gradually destroyed my reputation. In time no one would hire me any more.

5-Party-flashback

The hostess leaves the room and moves toward the guests.

Woman

Mr. Tamayol…

Tamayol comes toward the woman.

Tamayol

Yes, ma’am, yes?

Woman

Come and see what’s wrong with him. He doesn’t feel well.

The host’s daughter, the hostess and Tamayol head for the room.

Daughter

So why don’t they start?

Tamayol stands over Ali who is lying on the bed. He touches Ali’s cheeks and tries to rouse him.

Tamayol

Ali… Ali Jan… Ali Agha…

Woman

What’s wrong with him? If he is unwell, maybe I should call a doctor.

Tamayol

Ali Jan, Ali, get up!

Tamayol looks around. He picks up the vase on the nightstand and pours its water over Ali’s face.

Daughter

What are you doing?

Woman

Calm down, you wetted all the guests' clothes!

6-Cultural center-flashback

The audience keeps calling for Santour Ali. Others are waiting for the show to begin. Ali stumbles onto the stage. Some of the audience jeer. Ali falls on the instruments. They laugh.

7-Another party-a birthday-past

Ali is playing the santour. A little girl is dancing. The guests are clapping. Gradually Ali stops playing. The others laugh and jeer.

8-Wedding -past

The details of the party are heard.

Ali Voice Over

My last performance was at a wedding reception, way downtown: one of those places where they don’t pay a lot but they take really good care of you.

The host approaches Ali and Tamayol. He kisses them on the cheeks and talks to them.

Host
Well, well, Ali Jan, thank you for coming.

Ali
You’re very kind.

Tamayol
Greetings, Sir!

Host

Well, hello my dear Tamayol! My dear fellow all the things you sent have been laid out on the balcony.

Tamayol

Where should we change?

Host

I’m at your service. (Turning to Ali, he gives him a small parcel.)
Take this for now.

Ali
Much appreciated.

The host heads for the door. Ali and Tamayol follow him.

Host

At your service, do come in. You’re most welcome… Look, I want you to give us your very best tonight! (He takes out a small flagon from his pocket and gives it to Ali.) Take this too! (Facing Tamayol he continues.) He should go slowly on that if he doesn’t want to be wiped out.

Ali
I’m with you!

Host

Take a bit to warm up. I want you to really give them your all! (He pretends to play the santour.)

Ali
I’ll sock it to them!

9-Wedding Reception-night

Ali is playing the santour. Tamayol is dressed in his red costume; he has blackened his face. He’s drumming a rhythm. The guests are seated in groups. Tea, juice and cakes are being served. The younger ones are dancing to Ali’s music. The bride and groom are standing in a corner of the yard and smiling…

Song

If only we were never separated from each other, you and I!
Together we’d stand against all sorrow, you and I!
Our hopeful hearts would outrage Grief,
Forcing it to flee in brief !
If only we were never separated from each other, you and I!
Together we’d stand against all sorrow, you and I!
Our hopeful hearts would outrage Grief,
Forcing it to flee in brief!

The last verses of the song fade into the noise of the brawl.

Several people enter and from the very beginning they start to beat up the guests and break things.

One of the Thugs

Hey you, the party’s over!!

Skeptically, Ali and Tamayol continue to play. They’re still dazed and don’t realize what is taking place. The host moves toward the thugs.

Host

What does this mean?

Thug Leader

What does this mean?! My son should be the one sitting there (he points at the groom’s seat). You fuck face, didn’t I place a ring on your daughter’s finger? Didn’t we talk things out? (He points at his son and continues)… I sent him to the military for two years. It’s my son who should be sitting up there (turns to his friends). Tear this place apart!

The fight escalates. Ali picks up his santour to escape. The thugs begin to rip up the drums. Someone grabs Ali’s santour and throws it at the wall. Ali objects. He’s beaten up.

Ali

What are you doing to my santour?

The fight gains momentum. The thugs destroy more things. The violence escalates with one of the thugs grabbing the bride’s veil. The groom tries to help her and ends up tackling one of the thugs.

10-The Wedding Reception-an hour later

Ali is sprawled on the ground, he’s been beaten up. A young man moves toward him. He sees Ali’s hand-it’s been hurt.

First Man

Slowly, Ali Agha… What happened to you? Get up, let me take a look! I don’t like to see you like this! (another man comes to help him) Help him up!

Second Man

Those bastards destroyed him. Slowly! I hope they didn’t break his hand.

First Man (as he helps Ali get up he points at the instruments)

Thanks for lending a hand. Move those around a bit!

Ali

What will happen to our instruments?

Man
We’ll take care of them. Don’t worry!

11-Ali and Hanieh’s house-continuation

Ali turns the key in the lock and enters.

Ali
Come in, sir.

Two men bearing the instruments enter. Ali goes out onto the balcony.

Bring it here.

Ali

The phone rings. Ali picks it up.

Yes…?
Tamayol, where the hell did you take off to, you dickhead?

Tamayol Voice Over

Ali, Jan! I had no idea!

Ali

Huh? So you’re doing well, are you… You better get that stuff here! What’s going to happen to our money? Who is going to pay for our instruments?

Tamayol Voice Over

Sure, sure! I’ll take care of it!

Ali

The speakers! Bring me some money and some stuff. I have nothing left. I don’t even have enough to pay for food.

Tamayol Voice Over

I’ll get it all from them. I’ll get even rial of it!

Ali

Ya Ali!!

Tamayol Voice Over

I will, I will. I’ll be right there.

He hangs up and turns to the men.

Ali (showing his pocket to the man)

Thanks a lot! Here, take this (He hands the man some money.) There’s only five tomans left. Here, count! Give three tomans to this friend of ours (he points at the other man); you take the other two tomans.

Man
But we came cause of our love for you!

Ali throws down the broken santour he has been holding till now.

Ali

Why the hell am I holding YOU? (He kicks the santour.) Everything I have suffered is precisely because of YOU.

12-Night-the balcony of Ali and Hanieh’s apartment

Ali is lying on a bed playing the harmonica.

13-The balcony of Ali and Hanieh’s apartment-day-past

Hanieh is coming down the balcony stairs wearing a traditional costume. Ali is sitting on the bed and practicing. He’s composing the lyrics to a song. Hanieh is playing with the doves.

Ali

How good it would be were we never to be separated.

Hanieh

OK?

Ali

Make the second verse. Just make sure you keep ‘love’ in it.

Hanieh

(She shouts.) I love youuuuuuuuuu… No, no! (She murmurs to herself.)
If only we were never separated from each other!

Ali
There be love…

Hanieh

If only we were never separated from each other, you and I!
If only we could savor our love with each other, you and I…
Share it with each other…
If only we could share our love with each other, you and I!

Ali is writing down what Hanieh is singing. Hanieh holds up a pigeon and turns to Ali.

Hanieh

What is this one called, Ali?

Ali

Which one?

Hanieh

This one with a crown tail.

Ali

Uh… Houshang Khan.

Hanieh kisses Houshang Khan and lets him fly away. Ali is trying to finish composing the lyrics.

Ali

Well… our ceiling…

Hanieh

The sky.

Ali

Our ceiling… the sky…

Ali and Hanieh together

Blueeeeeeeeeee. (They scream in sheer happiness.)

Ali

Our sky, the blue sky.

Hanieh

Our wall, our heart!

Ali

May our hearts always be moonlit!

Hanieh

Sunlit!

Ali and Hanieh sing the lyrics.

Hanieh and Ali

I am happy in you, you in me
Together we’ll defeat all sorrow!

14-The balcony of the apartment-present-continuation

Soaked by the rain, Ali returns to the room.

Ali

I see how you shared our love with that miserable low life. That fucktard! That sleazy bastard!

15-Javid’s house-a party-past

Javid is moving around among the guests playing his violin. Ali and Hanieh have just entered the house and are going up the stairs. Ali greets some people he knows.

Ali

Hello! How are you doing? Hope you’re well. Please, please…

Hanieh kisses Jamileh, Javid’s sister.

Hanieh

What trouble you’ve gone to tonight!

Jamileh (turning to Ali)

Welcome!

Ali

Hello! How are you doing? Hope everything is well!

Jamileh

Javid… (Javid approaches them and shakes hands with Ali) This is my friend Hanieh and her husband.

Javid

Hello, please, please, come in!

Jamileh, Hanieh and Ali follow Javid. Tamayol turns up. He drags Ali to another room.

Tamayol (slowly)

I’ve got some good smack on me. Let’s go fix you up!

Jamileh

Javid, Hanieh is a brilliant pianist.

Hanieh (joking)

Yes, brilliant, extraordinary…

Javid
Really! Well done!

Jamileh (leading Hanieh to the piano in the corner of the room)

She’s going to play for you now.

Hanieh
Sure I am!

Javid

What a nice surprise! You must play a piece for us.

Hanieh

What could I play now? In a situation like this…

Javid

Something short. Something you like. Something you always play.

Hanieh begins to play.

Hanieh

This piano needs to be tuned.

Javid

It certainly does.

Hanieh (stops playing)

What should I play… If I want to play this entire piece you’ll be here all night.

Javid

Well, well, that was brilliant! Congratulations! That was excellent!

16-Balcony of Javid’s house-continuation

Hanieh and Javid are standing on the balcony with their backs to the guests. Hanieh is drinking something and Javid is smoking a cigarette. The green beam of the flasher hits their faces.

Javid

I believe that in the first place music is creativity, a discipline that controls your body and makes it move.

Hanieh

Yes, but it’s the soul that is the most important part.

Javid

The soul needs a healthy body in order for you to have the ability to move your fingers like that. Where does that energy come from?

Hanieh

It certainly doesn’t come from this cigarette you’re smoking.

Javid (awkwardly)

Well, I’m actually not a smoker. I just wanted to show off a bit for you. I’m also a bit excited at the moment.

He puts out the cigarette.

Hanieh

Yes. I was also surprised cause I’ve not seen many musicians who were interested in alcohol, cigarettes, and stuff like hash or grass. They’re usually really disciplined people, they’re organized. Like you, they wear ties, they come on time and leave on time.

Javid

On the contrary, I seem to be surrounded with people who are only interested in smoking things. Look! (He points at the guests.)

Hanieh

This is part of the misfortunes of the times. You have to forgive. Now, do you have a cigarette you could give me?

Javid

So you do smoke?!

Hanieh

Like I said, it’s the misfortune of the times!

Javid (gives Hanieh a cigarette)

Yes, please!

17-Continuation-party-Javid’s house

Hanieh is looking for Ali. She sees him coming out of a room with Tamayol. They’re both drunk and high. Javid takes Ali and his santour with him. Hanieh looks on sadly. Ali starts to play. The guests gather around him.

Ali (Sings)

Anxious and restless,
Another sleepless night!
Awake I lie till dawn
In throes of anxiety over you.

The clock hand, my only companion,
Ticks agonizingly away the hour.
What feeling is this?
‘Betrayal,’ comes the reply!

Let your voice once more
Appease my tormented mind
As these final breaths I take.
For death is all there’s left to embrace.

The image of your hand in that of another,
Is all I’m left to suffer!
Death is longed for, Lord!
Not to live to bear this truth!

18-Javid’s house-past

Jamileh (on the phone)

Hi Hanieh, how are you?

Ali Voice Over

That night was a fatal night. The next day, Jamileh, Javid’s sister, called Hanieh and invited her to play with them in a trio.

19-Various shots of Hanieh going to Jamileh’s house

20-Jaileh’s house-continuation

Jamileh (on the phone)

I just wanted to say that the concert starts at six. Don’t forget! Bye!

Ali’s Voice

She had told her that they’d pay her well… She had even told her that they were planning on getting visas for the group to go to Canada. Finally, I was duped and I let her go.

21-The balcony of Ali and Hanieh’s house-past

Holding the phone in his hand, Ali feeds the pigeons.

Ali

No, Tamayol was supposed to pick it up and bring it here. I don’t know where the fool has disappeared to. I’ve been waiting for him since noon.

22-Ali and Hanieh’s house-continuation

Ali is practicing and playing but he’s restless.

Ali Voice Over

It was a useless and financially difficult time for me. They wouldn’t let us record our tapes or they gave the permits really late and others found out about my work. They were arresting people so no one wanted to risk having parties or gatherings, but for me it was a time of really hard work. To spite everyone, I was working round the clock. I was composing madly. I made lyrics and set them to music.

23-Charity-past

Hanieh, Javid and the rest of the musicians.

Ali’s Voice

And Hanieh spent three or four nights a week practicing, sometimes just with Javid. They played at charities to help the handicapped, flood victims and cancer patients. They’d found themselves a couple of heartbreaking pieces and just kept on playing them. She was paying for our household expenses, dope, booze, and everything else.

The elegant ladies and the handicapped in the gathering have been touched by the music and are quietly shedding tears.

24-Ali and Hanieh’s house-past

Hanieh enters holding a bunch of flowers. She’s looking for Ali. Ali is slouched in a corner of the bedroom with a syringe in his arm. Hanieh looks on in shock.

Hanieh

What are you doing… what are you doing?!

Ali who seems not to be of this world looks at her in silence.

25-Ali and Hanieh’s house-continuation

Hanieh is sitting at the kitchen table chopping vegetables. Ali is next to her; he’s having some soup.

Hanieh (angrily)

I am slaving from dawn to dusk, I buy, I wash, I cook to feed HIM. I go to one studio, another studio and play for any fool who happens to come along (she has an outburst and throws a cucumber into Ali’s soup) so that YOU can sit there and shoot dope!!

Ali

What’s wrong with you, you nutcase!

Hanieh (starts throwing anything she can lay her hands on at Ali)

Now I understand how you got through all our money.

Ali (getting up he puts some distance between himself and Hanieh)

What’s wrong with you?

Hanieh

You’re throwing all our mortgage money for the apartment into that filthy shit. I went through hell to gather that money… I have to pay the players, I have to pay for all kinds of crap…

Ali

I spent it all on the house. We had debts. We had to pay for the refrigerator, the plumber…

Hanieh

So I was right you filthy smack addict!

Ali

Why did you turn to that geek Javid to borrow money? Wasn’t there anyone else? You know I can’t stand him. Why him?

Hanieh

Who the hell was I supposed to borrow from? Your useless parents who think our very existence is a sin? Is that what I was supposed to do? Borrow from them?

Ali

If you’d gone begging on the streets it would have been better than borrowing from that horny bastard.

Hanieh

Shut up! You bastard! You dirty junkie!

Hanieh throws the lettuce at Ali and it lands on the santour.

Ali (furious and shocked)

Why are you throwing things at the santour?

Hanieh (slightly frightened)

Don’t you dare touch me!

Ali (attacks her)

You filthy slut! I’ll beat the crap out of you!

Hanieh (crying she shrinks into herself)

You tore my eardrum, Ali.

Ali moves toward the santour and picks up the pieces of lettuce that are spread all over it.

26-Ali and Hanieh’s house-night-past

Ali sees Hanieh through the kitchen window as she gets out of Javid’s car. They’re talking. Hanieh is holding a bouquet of flowers in her arms.

Hanieh

Thanks a lot!

Javid

Thank you, it was a great concert.

Hanieh

Thank God. (she sees Ali through the window, he pulls away)

Javid

Thanks. You’re very kind.

Hanieh

Well, don’t bother coming to the door.

27-Ali and Hanieh’s house-continuation

Hanieh enters the house. Ali moves in her direction.

Ali

Well, well, hello Lady Hanieh! What a pretty outfit, what nice smells! Where were you? What did you play?

Ali

Hanieh! (she enters the kitchen to find a vase for the flowers) The usual.

Ali

Did they give you anything other than flowers?

Hanieh

You know very well where my wallet is. Go take it! Take what you want and smoke it all away! (she moves toward the bedroom)

Ali

You’ve barely come back and you’re already starting. How come you manage to laugh the night away in the street with that moron but the minute you see me you can’t let it go?

Hanieh (gesturing at the clothes on the bed)

I’ve told you a hundred times to pick up what you throw around. I’m not your maid! That’s not what I’m in this house for. You asshole!

Ali

Watch your mouth! You are always off enjoying yourself with that retard!

Hanieh (going into the kitchen)

Shut up! You’re only scared of one thing!

Ali

Of course I am, I have my honor!

Hanieh (puts the flowers in the vase)

If you had any honor you’d quit!

Ali

I’m not an addict! I can quit whenever I want.

Hanieh

Huh… willpower… how many times… a hundred times… (she heads for the sitting room)

Ali

I know what you want! You want to get rid of me so you can find yourself a better husband. Someone who is organized, tidy, can play the violin well and can take care of you! (he gets closer to Hanieh)

Hanieh

Don’t you dare touch me! Yup, it’s exactly as you put it! Has it ever crossed your mind that I too am a human being? That I’m a woman? I want my husband to take care of me! Why the hell should I sacrifice my life, my youth, the future of my children for you? You’re neither a husband nor even a human being! You don’t have an inkling what responsibility means! What for?? You only have one love in your life you desperate needle bender—dope!

Ali

I was right, wasn’t I?

Ali hits Hanieh on the shoulder.

Hanieh (they tackle each other)

I told you not to touch me! You piece of shit!

Hanieh moves toward the balcony.

Ali

You stupid bitch! She doesn’t know how to watch her mouth! Bitch!

Hanieh is crying on the balcony.

28-Ali and Hanieh’s house-present

Ali is dialing a number on the phone.

Hanieh’s Mother’s Voice

Please leave a message.

Ali

Hello, it’s another message from a miserable Ali, a lonely Ali, a sad Ali. They raided our wedding ceremony tonight and ripped our instruments apart…

29-Hanieh’s mother’s house-continuation

Ali’s voice is heard over the answering machine. Javid and Hanieh’s mother are sitting at the table and Hanieh is in the kitchen tidying up.

Ali’s Voice

I’ve crippled myself. This is the last straw! I’m looking for the saliciliate cream that you would sometimes massage into my hands and feet. Where is it? It doesn’t matter. These are all excuses, lovers’ excuses. But you should become a mountain of endurance. Bear it and be a man.

Hanieh comes out of the kitchen and angrily turns off the answering machine.

Hanieh

Why are you just sit there listening to this crap?

Mother

Why did you turn it off? Didn’t you hear what the poor guy said? He’s been crippled!

Hanieh (goes back into the kitchen)

I did hear! There’s nothing wrong with him.

Mother

At this time of night! He needs help! He probably needs a doctor, medicine or something.

Hanieh

No he doesn’t. Rest assured! There’s nothing wrong with him! He’s just running out of money and he’s scared he won’t get another high. I know him well. saliciliate cream, indeed! The drugstore is just round the corner from his house and it’s open all night!

Mother (goes on slowly)

Who the heck is this Javid? He’s there every night! Throw him out.

Hanieh

What do you mean mother? Do you know what you’re saying? Can’t you see we practice with each other? Would you rather I went to his house?

Mother

He’s your husband, if you’re not going to see how he is, I am!

Hanieh

That won’t be necessary.

Mother

I want to go and see how he is. (She picks up the phone.)

Hanieh

What for? So that you can go all the way to the other end of the city and rub his arm with ointment? Where are you going Mother? Mother!

Hanieh pulls the phone out of her mother’s hand.

Hanieh

I told you to leave him alone.

Mother

What’s wrong with you? Why are you picking on me now? What have I done wrong? Why the heck did you leave your home? To land on me? Then you start telling me what to do!

Hanieh

I’m sorry, I’ll just go to a hotel as of tomorrow.

Mother

Sweetheart, these things happen in all marriages. Which couple do you know that don’t fight? You can’t just take off after every fight! If he’s an addict then help him! Fix him!

Hanieh

He can’t be helped, Mother.

Mother

What have you done?

Hanieh

What have I done??!! All that any poor woman can do for a husband who’s a junkie. What else can I do? He promised to quit so many times. How many times did you and I take him to the clinic together? Before the week was up he had gone back to it. What more could I have done? How many years do you think I could slave from dawn to midnight, take care of him, pay for him, feed him, pay his rent, pay for his filthy addiction? Don’t worry yourself, (she picks up her coat) I won’t stay here long. If this guy (she points at Javid) and his group move a bit faster I will leave this hellhole! (she walks out)

Mother

Hanieh…

30-Night-street-continuation

Hanieh is walking along the street. Javid appears around the corner.

Javid

Hanieh! Wait! Where are you going at this time of night?

Hanieh

Can’t I be alone for a single moment?

Javid

Your mother thinks I should go check up on him. He doesn’t have anyone.

Hanieh

Who says he doesn’t? He has a father, a mother, a brother. He has that blasted Tamayol! It’s just that he’s borrowed from everyone so much that no one wants to see him.

Javid

You know your mother. She keeps feeling sorry for him. She feels sorry for everyone.

Hanieh

I feel sorry for him too, you know. But he’s not my husband any more. I’ve made up my mind. I have no future with him-no security with him. How long am I going to be alive for? You call this a life!!

Javid

Calm down!

Hanieh

How do you expect me to calm down?! I don’t have the patience for anything any more. Everything makes me sick. I hate everything. I hate this aggressive, lying, deceiving, ruthless country that turns people into addicts. Who would have thought that Santour Ali whom everyone from Khani Abad to Shemiran wanted to hear play would come to this? They banned all his concerts, they stopped him from recording his cassettes. For a measly existence, he was forced to go play in any good for nothing’s house. Just to pay his rent! What for?… One person had no money so he’d pay him with dope, the other with opium, the third with booze. He smoked, he drank… well… Santour Ali…

Javid and Hanieh cross the ditch.

31-Night-past

Ali and Hanieh are crossing the same ditch.

32-Concert at the cultural center-past

Ali is performing and Hanieh and her friends look on.

Song

My only friend the Lover’s Stone of Patience,
Help me embrace my loneliness!
No one sees my sea of agony nor
How my world is crashing around me!
Majnoun am I, bereft of all Leilis!
Forced into suffering much from so many!
Youth is lost to this raging heart!
Age falls on me in her destructive might.
Lonely, without the Lover’s Stone of Patience,
Heartless home, cold and blessed by gloom!
No star rises to adorn my night,
No hope, no solution in sight.
No friendly face to greet me,
No gracious companion to fill my lonely doom!
You be the rock of pain,
Bear it and become a Man!

When Ali’s concert ends the audience applauds. Some of the audience, including Hanieh, flock to Ali and form a circle around him.

Hanieh

Will you give me your autograph… I think you were wonderful. Simply great! The way you went up and down… and the instrument, it’s fantastic!

Ali (busy signing)

Thanks, that’s kind of you! (he takes another slip of paper to sign)

Hanieh

How long does it take to learn? (she passes Ali something to write on) maybe you should use this. How long does it take to play like you?

Ali

Not long.

Hanieh
Do you teach?

Ali

Do you want to learn?

Hanieh

Yes, very much.

Ali

Tamayol… Take this lady’s phone number. Give her the Institute’s address and number.

Tamayol

OK.

Ali

We will be in touch with you.

Hanieh

Thanks.

33-Ali’s house-past

Ali is teaching the basics of the santour to Hanieh.

Ali

The santour is made of three octaves. The yellow strings are the bass, the white ones in the middle and the ‘poshte kharak’ are the treble. The way one sits at the instrument is that you hold the ‘mezrab’ comfortably in the hand. Be natural. You hold them so that they’re neither too far in the hand nor too far out.

Hanieh

What are we supposed to do if we want to change our chords?

Ali

You move the ‘kharaks’ up and down.

Hanieh

In the middle of the piece?

Ali

Well no, we’re supposed to think of all that in advance.

Hanieh

It seems to be somewhat of a limited instrument. For example, if you can’t make it a… what do you call it… a ‘shour’… For example, if we want to move from ‘shour’ to ‘isfahan’ or ‘mahour’ what are we supposed to do?

Ali

When performing the piece?

Hanieh

Yes.

Ali

We beat our heads against the wall… But if you don’t like this instrument why don’t you choose another one?

Hanieh

Do you teach another instrument?

Ali

Yes. The harmonica.

Hanieh

The harmonica… that’s too bad…

Ali starts to play a very fast and difficult piece, Hanieh looks on in admiration.

Hanieh (after Ali finishes playing)

Bravo!! I think I’d better just leave now.

Ali (getting up)

Come! Sit!

Hanieh (teasing)

No, I think I’d better just leave! I’d better not stay here.

Ali

Sit down! Play!

34-Ali’s house-continuation-a few days later

Hanieh is sitting at the santour. Ali is sitting beside her.

Ali

Well, let me see what you’ve done… By the way, your flowers were beautiful. They smelt lovely… thanks.

Hanieh

You’re most welcome. I’ve practiced this piece so much that I’ve memorized it. Should I play?

Ali nods his consent and Hanieh starts to play. Ali gets up and moves into the kitchen to pour some tea.

Ali

Don’t speed up… slowly… slowly… don’t lose the rhythm.

Hanieh (she finishes playing)

How do you assess my talent, master?

Ali

Not bad.

35-Suburbs-night

Ali and Hanieh have put up their tent by a river. Ali is playing the santour in the tent and Hanieh is making chicken kebab. She is murmuring one of Ali’s songs.

36-Hanieh’s mother’s house

Mother opens the door. Ali walks in holding a bouquet of flowers.

Ali

Hello! How are you? I hope you’re well. (he hands the flowers to Hanieh’s mother) These are for you.

Ali (seeing the piano in the room)

What a beautiful piano!

Mother

It belonged to my grandmother when she lived in the Caucasus. We’ve kept it generation after generation.

Mother puts the flowers on the table

Ali

Does anyone play it?

Mother

I do. Hanieh also plays very well.

Ali (surprised)

Uh…

Mother

That’s right. She’s been playing since she was a child.

Hanieh enters.

Hanieh

Hello!

Ali

Hello! How are you?

Hanieh

Good thanks. Welcome!

Mother picks up the flowers.

Mother

I’m going to put these in a vase.

Ali

Well, well… (turning to Hanieh) so you play the piano!

Hanieh

Says who?

Ali throws his scarf around Hanieh’s neck and pulls her to him.

Ali

Yes… yes… you sit right here and play. You’ve been playing since you were a child.

Hanieh (laughing and teasing)

Not at all! I don’t know how to play!

Ali (going over Hanieh’s words)

‘Teach me the staff.’

Hanieh starts to play.

Ali

Do, rey, la, fa, si… you just play!

Hanieh

Beethoven! (she begins to play a piece by Beethoven)

Ali

Play some Mozart!

Hanieh

Mozart!!! (She plays a piece by Mozart and then an Iranian dance tune. Ali and Hanieh laugh.)

Hanieh (Mimicking Ali in class; she continues.)

Well, these five lines that you see here, they’re called a staff!

Teasingly, Ali hits Hanieh with his scarf.

Hanieh

Don’t… don’t… (She tries to pull the scarf away from Ali.) I’ll take it from you and I won’t give it back! What kind of a man are you!!

Ali laughs.

37-Ali and Hanieh’s house-past

The Master of Ceremonies, dressed in formal attire, moves toward the door and opens it. The cleric is mounting the stairs.

Master of Ceremonies

Hello, Haj Agha!

Haj Agha

Salam ol Aleykom! Ya Allah… (he shakes hands with the Master of Ceremonies)

Master of Ceremonies

How are you?

Haj Agha

Hope you’re well, God willing! Congratulations… ya Allah!

Master of Ceremonies (as he leads Haj Agha to the balcony where Ali and Hanieh are sitting)

Come in!

Ali and Hanieh are sitting in a tent decorated for a wedding.

Ali and Hanieh Together

Hello Haj Agha! Welcome! Come in!

Haj Agha sees the santour lying on the bed next to the tent. He moves toward it and plays with the strings.

Haj Agha

Wow, what an instrument!

Ali

Wow, Haj Agha is also into this!! (He applauds.)

Haj Agha

This instrument has a wonderful sound. (He moves toward the tent and goes in.)

Ali

Sorry, there’s not much room.

Haj Agha

What a wedding room! What a small wedding room!

Hanieh

Hope you don’t mind having a bad time for just one night!

Haj Agha

Well, Mr. Groom, Miss Bride, how are you two doing today? I hope you’re both well. (He sits down between Ali and Hanieh.) So where are your parents young lady? Your father? Your mother?

Ali (laughing)

We have no one.

Hanieh

No, my father has passed away and my mother has had an accident and couldn’t come.

Haj Agha

May God grant her health! Well, do you have some documents? A hand written authorization maybe?

Ali

She does…

Hanieh

I do. I’ll fetch it for you right now.

Haj Agha

That’s alright, your word is enough. It’s Islamic, God willing.

Hanieh (pointing at Ali)

Agha, this is my family.

Ali

I am her family.

Haj Agha

Of course!

Ali

I’m watching over her like a lion!

Hanieh

Thank God, thank God!!

Haj Agha

That is obvious … With your permission I will begin the ceremony.

Ali

Yes Agha, let’s hurry! Let’s finish it off.

Haj Agha

Young Bride am I allowed to carry out the ceremony on your behalf and to wed you to Ali Bolourchi? May I?

Hanieh whispers in Haj Agha’s ear.

Haj Agha (turning to Ali)

It seems as if she needs to be enticed!

Ali

Enticed??!!

Hanieh

I need what you’ve bought, the thing you’ve been hiding for a couple of weeks.

Ali takes out the gold wedding band and gives it to Hanieh.

Hanieh (screams out in excitement)

Yessssssssss!!

Ali and Hanieh both clap.

Haj Agha

Well, Lady Bride I believe you have just consented! Now Mr. Groom, it’s your turn. Am I permitted to act on your behalf and to wed… (Ali gestures to Haj Agha that he too needs to be enticed.) Well, it seems as if he also needs to be enticed…

Hanieh puts Ali’s gold band on his finger.

Ali

Yes… Congratulations!!

Haj Agha

Congratulations to the two of you.

Ali and Hanieh

Done? Is it finished?

Ali kisses Haj Agha.

Hanieh

Kiss him for me too!

Ali kisses Haj Agha again.

38-Continutation-an hour later

Ali and Hanieh are in the tent playing the daf and santour. The delivery boy has brought the wedding dinner (pizzas and coke). He comes in and puts the food by the tent.

Master of Ceremonies

Ali Jan, he needs to be tipped.

Ali

Pay him well.

The Master of Ceremonies pays the delivery boy and tips him.

Hanieh

Husband and wife…Ali… (ululation).

39-Ali and Hanieh’s house-past

Hanieh sits watching a film on television with a towel wrapped around her head. Meanwhile she’s wiping her face with another towel. She laughs at some of the scenes. Ali is also sitting next to Hanieh drying his face with a towel.

Ali

What are you watching?

Hanieh

Mary Poppins… have you ever seen it?

Ali

No.

Hanieh

You must see it!

We watch some scenes of Dick van Dyke with a drum and cymbals tied to him. He’s singing.

Hanieh (pointing at van Dyke)

Look! What a brilliant idea! Imagine if we tied some leather straps to you from behind your neck, then you could carry the santour! Then you could tie a drum to yourself like this!

Ali

No, no! We could just tie the drum to Tamayol and we could hit him on the head with the cymbals.

Hanieh (bursts out laughing)

It would actually look good on him too! Then we could just run around in the streets begging for money.

Ali

We’d make rent money!

Hanieh

We could even buy a house!

Hanieh makes up an Iranian song and sings it to the tune of the film.

Hanieh

I’ll collect money… But I can’t play in the street.

40-Ali and Hanieh’s house- past

Ali enters holding a large box to his face. Behind him is another man. Hanieh is busy in the kitchen.

Ali

Hanieh…

Hanieh (comes to greet him)

Hi!

Ali

Hi! Here sir! (he leads the other man who is also carrying a box) Put it here, sir!

Hanieh

What’s this? Did you buy a TV set?

Ali

Guess!

Hanieh

What is it?
It’s a drum set and all its accessories!

Ali and Hanieh Together (cheering together; then turning to the man)

Oh my God I’m sorry! Truly sorry!

Ali (hands the man some money)

Keep the rest! Could you please close the door on your way out? Thanks!

Ali (pointing at the drums)

I’ll smash Tamayol’s head in with this.

Hanieh hits Ali on the head with the cymbals. Then she realizes she’s really hurt him.

Hanieh

Oh my God, I’m sorry!

Ali

I can’t forgive you!

41-Concert at the cultural center- past

Ali is performing. Hanieh is sitting in the audience, in the front row, and looking at Ali with adoration in her eyes. When the show ends Ali comes to sit next to her while the audience cheer. Hanieh wipes his face and forehead with a handkerchief and gives him something to drink.

Ali Singing

Let your voice once more
Appease my tormented mind!
These final breaths are mine
Beyond death is all there’s left to embrace.
The image of your hand in that of another
Is all I’m left to suffer!
Let me die, O God!
And not live to bear this truth!

42-Ali and Hanieh’s house

The boxes of things Ali had bought are spread around the house. Hanieh is opening one of them.

Hanieh

What’s this Ali? It won’t come out.

Ali

I think I broke my back!

Hanieh pulls the barbecue out of the box.

Hanieh (joking)

Is this an electric baby washer?

Ali

It’s a diaper washer… Uh uh, it’s called a barbecue.

Hanieh

Barbecue?

Ali

We’ll throw it onto the balcony that way you can make kebab for your husband.

Hanieh

I can fry my husband…

43-Ali and Hanieh’s house- past- another day

Ali opens the large TV box.

Ali

Look at this! (He pulls off the plastic covering the TV.) I’ll buy a house.

Ali and Hanieh scream out in joy.

Hanieh

How many inches is it?

Ali

A thousand!

Hanieh (points at their little old television set)

Compare these two! Poor little thing!

Ali (pointing at the little old television set)

We’ll throw that one for the pigeons.

44-The balcony of Ali’s house-present

Ali has passed out among the pigeons on the balcony. Tamayol enters the house. He’s looking for Ali in the kitchen, in the room, in the bathroom.

Tamayol

Ya Allah! Host… Ali Agha… Ali Jan…

Tamayol goes onto the balcony. He sees Ali passed out there. He goes over to him and tries to rouse him.

Tamayol

(He smells the bottle that Ali is holding in his hand) What the heck have you been doing to yourself?

He goes back into the room, comes out with a jug and pours the water over Ali.

Tamayol

Get up, Ali!

Ali coughs a bit and wakes up.

Tamayol

You scared me to death.

Ali

Go to hell!

Tamayol lays out the food he’s bought on the table on the balcony.

Tamayol

Come… come and take a bite of these cold cuts.

Ali

Why did you pour water over me, you creep?

Tamayol

You wouldn’t wake up!

Ali

What the hell type of a show was this you set up for me? What kind of people were these? Take a look at our instruments. See what they did to them! And they crippled me!

Tamayol

They said they’d fix it… We’ll get the money for it.

Ali throws the empty bottle at him and moves threateningly forward.

Ali

Shut the hell up! You bloody fool! ‘They’ll pay us, they’ll pay us,’ you kept saying. Who the hell is going to pay for the damage?

Tamayol

I’ll get it. It’s the weekend right now. It’s a holiday. The guy’s in hospital himself.

Ali

What about the dope? Did you get any?

Tamayol

I didn’t have any money. Give me some money and I’ll get some.

Ali (has another outburst)

So you’ve just come to rip some money off me and to tell me I can have a damned jonesing!

Tamayol

What the heck do you want me to do? I only had three or four thousand tomans left. I spent it all on food and crap for you.

Ali (mimicking him)

‘I bought you food and stuff.’ Asshole!

Tamayol

Why do you keep freaking out? I didn’t say anything wrong. I just ran out of money… Give me some money and I’ll go get you some. You needn’t get so worked up over it.

Ali lies down on the bed and lights a cigarette.

Ali

Get some money out of my pants. Take half of whatever there is. I’ll friggin’ kill you if you come back empty handed.

Tamayol (counting the money)

Is this enough?

Ali

For tonight it is.

Tamayol

I’ve never got you bad juice. Why do you get so worked up? It’s not good for you. Look at what those bastards did to your arm! You take care of yourself till I get back.

He takes Ali by the arm. Ali screams out in pain.

Ali

My arm!!! Fuckface! Get lost!

Tamayol

I love you! Take care of yourself till I get back. Bye.

45-Street-present

Ali gets out of a cab in front of his parents’ home and enters.

46-Parental home-continuation

There are some women seated on the ground covered in their black chadors. A cleric is sitting on a couch in front of them. He’s talking of the younger generations and of the loss of morality among the youth. Ali’s mother, dressed in white, moves around among the guests.

Clergyman

The world is now filled with corruption and people have lost faith. What are we to do? Why does the younger generation further distance itself from morality every day? We have to seek the causes. What are the real reasons for loss of faith in morality and for the lack of any attempt to rein in desire?
What are we to do really? I believe that many have forgotten the basic principles of life and have risen against those things that have commanded respect through the ages, those things that the older generations venerated. Mechanical life and destruction…

(Ali bursts in and the voice of the clergyman fades until Hamed comes to take Ali with himself.)

Ladies, may I have your attention…
Let us send a salavat here… (the congregation follows his lead… the clergyman begins to pray and his voice is heard over the voices of Mother and Hamed)

He who bears the allusions has festive news.
Many secrets are there,
Where the secret sharer?

Ali

Well, well, well, what a lovely day… What a coincidence.

The women quickly wrap themselves deeper in their chadors. Ali’s mother stares at him in surprise.

Mother

What are you doing here?

Ali

Mother, I’ve come on this blessed day to demand my rights of you and of Father. Why don’t you give me my inheritance? Why are you taking my sinful share? You heinous tribe!!

Mother

Keep quiet. You shameless creature! We’re not dead yet?

Ali

But you’re dead to me.

Mother

Hamed… (heading for the stairs)

Tearfully Ali moves toward the cleric in the crowd.

Ali

I keep telling them, Haj Agha, to give me ten percent, five percent, even one percent of my inheritance. Give it to me now when I need it. What’s good is it to me later? Mother… You destroyed me.

Mother (comes back hurriedly)

Akbar Agha, Hamed…

Ali

You said I was a sin. You said I had to get out because I played a musical instrument… May Abolfazl himself destroy you! May your fasting and prayers be your undoing!

Hamed, Ali’s brother, comes up the stairs. Mother wants him to take Ali away. Ali heads for the cleric one more time. The clergyman tries to calm him.

Ali

She keeps bending up and down.

Hamed takes Ali by the arm. Ali screams out in pain.

Ali

My arm!! (pretends to cry) May you all go to hell! May the fires of hell burn you! May you find no happiness in life!

Hamed leads Ali down the stairs. Mother apologizes to the guests. On the clergyman’s request the guests all praise the Lord. Mother goes upstairs to her room and comes back with a stack of money.

Clergyman Voice Over

Let us all send a salavat!

Congregation

Allah o ma sale ala Mohammad va Ale Mohammad!

47-Continuation-a few minutes later

Mother goes down the stairs and calls Hamed.

Mother

Hamed… Agha Hamed… (she hands him a stack of thousand toman notes) give this to him and shut him up. He just ruined my reputation. What’s wrong with him… Why has he gone wild? He should be ashamed of himself! Me, rob him of his rights! I robbed him of his money!! God only knows I gave you and your brother all that you ever needed. That basement is still filled with toys, bicycles, mobiles and thousands of other things. Then (she starts to cry) he says… God forbid, I would rob my child of his rights. He’s my son! He should be ashamed of himself! I turned him out? I only told him to choose between this house and that damned instrument. Did you see that Hamed? Did you see how he cursed me? God is great! This is what happens to those who don’t believe in God and religion.

48-Continuation-kitchen

Ali is looking for some painkillers in the kitchen.

Hamed

What the hell are you looking for?

Ali

You have all this crap! Don’t you have a real tranquilizer?

Hamed

I do. I have floxitin, oxaspam, diazepam…

Ali

For God’s sakes, I don’t want any of your bloody zpams. I just want a strong tranquilizer.

Hamed

I have some Zana… It’s great. It’ll make you feel good… come!

Hamed gives Ali the pill.

Hamed

Take this.

Ali (pointing at the money)

What is this?

Hamed

Take your pill first.

Ali (angrily)

Did Mother give you this to give to me? Did she?

Hamed

Yes, she did. Stop shouting. Come!

Ali (more quietly)

Put it in my pocket.

Hamed puts the money in Ali’s pocket. Ali moves toward the kitchen sink to take his pill.

Hamed

What happened to your arm? Did you get into a fight? Did they beat you up? (Ali goes to the bathroom) Have you gone mute? But you know what? I like what you did. It was great. I loved the way you stood up to her. ‘The heinous tribe!!!’ That’s exactly what they are! One has to stand up to them and scream to get one’s rights.

Ali

So scream then.

Hamed

Me? I can’t scream. I could never stand up to them like that… I’m just a coward. I’m a good for nothing. I’m not like you.

Ali (coming out of the bathroom)

Do you have a cell phone?

Hamed

Cell phone?

49-Hamed’s room-continuation

Hamed hands his cell phone to Ali, Ali tries to dial a number with difficulty.

Hamed

Come.. I’m sick of this house. Sick of these hypocrites. I’m almost forty years old for God’s sakes! I have no secure job, no house, no independent life, no wife, no kids… When the heck am I supposed to be able to stand on my own two feet? Huh? Whichever girl I chose either mother or father found fault with her. They said she didn’t suit our family… I said I wanted to get an apartment, that I wanted to make my own family… They’d ask with whose money. Do you have any idea how much money Father has? Do you really know? Yup, that’s right he’s the head of the factory and of the union of glassworkers, but have you any idea how much he’s really worth? Do you?

Ali’s not listening. He’s finally been able to get through to the number.

Ali

Hello, Mohsen Jan, hello, hello… Santouri... Kashanak… Good to hear from you. Yes… Go ahead, I’m writing it down. Hold on a minute. (turning to Hamed) Give me a pencil. Hold on a sec!

Ali is turning the drawers inside out.

Hamed

Don’t Ali, stop.

Ali

Don’t hang up! Give me a damned pencil!

Hamed

I’ll find you one in a minute. Don’t throw this stuff around.

Ali

Hold oh Mohsen Jan. (Turning to Hamed) Give me a damned pencil you ape!

Hamed

Don’t throw these…

(Ali goes upstairs)

50-Continutation-living room

Ali enters the living room one more time. Once again the women hide behind their chadors. Mother is serving her guests with pastry.

Ali

Mother…

Mother

What’s wrong now?

Ali

Give me a pencil!

Mother

What do you want a pencil for?

Ali

I want to stab myself in the head with a damned pencil! I want to write with it! What do you think I want it for?

Ali himself starts looking for a pencil.

Mother

You’ve totally destroyed my reputation.

Ali (facing the guests)

Give me a pencil ladies, a pen, a pencil, some damned thing to write with.

The guests look at him as if none of them has a pencil in her bag.

Ali

Don’t you people ever want to write anything down? Can’t a pencil be found in this place? What kind of a house is this where you can’t even find a damned pen? Who on God’s earth would believe this?

Little Girl

Here you are, Sir!

Mother

Give him the coloring pencil!

A little schoolgirl takes out a pencil from her bag and gives it to Ali.

Ali

Thank you, sweetheart. Hello, Mohsen… Can you hear me? Oh, I’ve been cut off.

51-Kitchen-continuation

Hamed is busy eating. Ali dials the number one more time and starts to speak.

Ali

Hello, sorry we got cut off… Yes (he jots down a phone number). Thanks a lot. Bye!

Ali leans his head against the couch. He feels better now.

52-Exterior -on the street where Ali and Hanieh live

Father is sitting in the back seat of the car and reading the papers. Seeing his picture and his interview on glassmaking in the papers, he smiles. Newspaper headline: ‘The head of the glass workers’ Union says the government has to give more support.’ He then lifts his head and starts looking for the address.

Father (to the driver)

Well, this is Mahdiz Street. Don’t miss the Akbarian dead end.

Driver

I haven’t seen it yet.

Father sees Ali stumble down the street and turn into a side street.

Father (to the driver)

I think it’s here. Slow down. Slow down. This is it! (Ali enters the house.) Park here.

Father gets out of the car and enters the house behind Ali.

53-Ali and Hanieh’s house-continuation

Father goes in.

Father

Ya Allah! Is there anyone home?

Ali is squatted on the floor by the stove preparing his shoot. He sees Father.

Ali

What are you doing here Agha Jan? This is a surprise. Come in. Give me that syringe there.

Ali sits on the floor. Father enters the kitchen stunned.

Father

Syringe?

Ali

Yes, it’s right here… (points at the counter) Don’t just stand there staring at me! Give me the syringe!

Father searches for the syringe.

Ali

It’s on the counter… did you find it?

Father

Are you going to take a tranquilizer?

Ali

Yes, that’s right. I want to take a tranquilizer. Give it to me. (He takes the syringe from father.) Go into the kitchen. In the second drawer there’s an elastic band, get it!

Father

Elastic band?!

Father is searching for an elastic band in the drawers.

Ali

Hurry… that cabinet, I said the drawer, Einstein! Oh my arm! The second drawer. Hurry…

Father (giving the band to Ali)

What’s the elastic for?

Ali fills the syringe.

Ali

Well, sit down. (pointing at his sleeve) I told you to sit here! Pull it up. Tie the band around my arm. (stunned and confused Father does as Ali says) Higher. That’s it! Tie it to my arm! Ouch, you pulled the hair off my arm! Take the syringe from me.

Father

I don’t know how.

Ali

I’ll teach you. Slap my arm. Find my vein. Can’t you see it? I can’t.

Dazed Father slaps Ali’s arm.

Ali

Harder! Shoot me right here. This is a vein. Push it in gently. Into my vein. Great! Ok, now slowly pull it out. Ok, now you’ve drawn blood… Now push it in, push it slowly in… Make sure your hand doesn’t shake. I don’t want it to go under my skin. That’s enough! Pull it out!

Father starts to cry. Slowly, Ali leans his head against the wall.

Ali

Now, can you light a cigarette for me? (Father doesn’t answer and Ali lights the cigarette himself.) Fill that kettle with water and put it on the stove. The tea is right there. Let’s heat things up together!

Father takes off his coat and throws it on the couch. He enters the kitchen and starts to pick up the mess there-to clean it.

54-An hour later-continuation

The kitchen has been cleaned up. Father washes the last dishes. Ali enters the kitchen.

Ali

You’ve gone to a lot of trouble here.

Father

Trouble?! How much do you shoot a day?

Ali opens the refrigerator. He takes out a bottle and starts to drink.

Ali

However much I can find.

Father

One gram? Two grams? How much?

Ali

What difference does it make? Do you plan on getting me some liquid gold?

Father

I might be able to do something for you.

Ali

Wow, really? Then get going.

Father

How much, you son of a bitch?

Ali

The more the better. You know, this way there’s nothing to worry about. You don’t have to worry about juice all day long. You can’t let the H enslave you, you know.

Father

Yes, I’m starting to get the picture. Where is your wife?

Ali

How do I know? She left.

Father

She got sick and tired of you.

Father heads for the door. Ali screams out.

Ali

Where are you going, Man? I thought you’d be able to see that we’ve fallen below the line of poverty. That you’d give us a check or something.

Father

What for? So that you could go buy more dope? So that you could feel ‘more comfortable’ that way?

Father goes into the bedroom, grabs a couple of suitcases and throws them at Ali’s feet.

Father

Get up! Pack your things, I’m taking you with me.

Ali (laughing)

Really?! How kind! To my mother’s house? To that black angel?!

Father

No… I’ll get you into some place, a hospital, a sanatorium. Somewhere under my own care.

Ali (mimicking Father)

‘I’ll take you! I’ll get you help!’ What the hell for? So that I quit? Did anyone bother asking me if I even want to quit? I want to go on as I am to the very end. (He starts to cry.) Till I explode and disappear. What kind of a life is this you have made for us? You’re the ones turning us all into junkies!

Father

Enough! Stop being so damned stubborn!

Ali

Stop playing the loving father, will you! Where the hell have you been all these years? You had disinherited me, remember? You had no idea whether I was dead or alive. What gives you the right to suddenly walk in here and set me straight! Why don’t you straighten yourself out? (changing his tone) For heaven’s sakes, why do you always need to pick on me! Come, let’s try to have a good time together tonight. Let’s give it a try and live it up! (Father pushes him away) Come on, what do you say…

Father gets up to leave. Ali follows him.

Ali

Why don’t you try it for yourself tonight? Try it and see what it’s really like! I’ll call in a broad and the three of us can spend some time together! What do you say? Where are you going? Why not leave me some dough? Some cash? (He searches Father’s pockets, finds his wallet and pulls out the cash.) Give me this! Thanks a lot! You’re so kind! Thanks! Why are you in such a rush… The tea is freshly brewed. Why leave so soon?

Father leaves and closes the door. Ali sprawls out on the floor.

55-Ali and Hanieh’s house-continuation

Mr. Salehi, the landlord, a giant, enters carrying some empty cardboard boxes. Ali is counting his money.

Ali

Come in… Mr. Salehi… Hello!

Salehi

Hi! You have been warned in writing that this place is to be knocked down in a couple of days from now. They’re going to build a six story building here. You have to leave. Here are twenty boxes (he throws the boxes on the floor). There’s more if you need any.

Salehi walks out the door.

Ali

This is what I call being up shit’s creek without a paddle!

56-Ali and Hanieh’s house-continuation

Ali takes a box into the bedroom. He picks up a couple of books from the floor and throws them into the box. He heads for the closets. Hanieh’s traditional costume is hanging there. He picks it up and holds it to himself.

Ali’s voice is heard over various shots of Javid’s face, the costume hanging in a shop, hotel lobby, restaurant entrance, an untidy double bed, and the bathroom of the hotel.

Ali Voice Over

But Lady Hanieh, I still don’t get what it is you see in this faggot. I mean could you really go with him to all the places we used to go to? Could you eat the food you used to eat with me with him? The very same? Could you really do the things you used to do with me with him?

57- Street corner-present

Ali is standing impatiently in the street. He asks the time from a passerby. When he sees the police ca;r he goes into a side street. He begins to cough. As the cough worsens a passerby tries to help him but he pushes the guy away.

First Pedestrian

Are you alright, Sir?

Second Pedestrian

Do you need any help?

Ali gestures them to go away.
Further along he falls coughing onto the ground and begins to writhe in the agonies of withdrawal.

58-The street of Ali’s house-continuation

This time he enters the street beaming. They’ve put his stuff out on the street, a worker is bringing out the rest of it. The other workers are busy tearing down the building.

Ali

Uh… Where are you taking these? Mr. Salehi… Mr. Salehi…

Ali gets to the balcony of his apartment. Salehi is busy gathering the pigeon cages.

Ali

Mr. Salehi, what are you doing?

Salehi

Sorry, Ali Agha. You weren’t in, Man, and I started tearing this place down. What do you want to do with these birds?

Ali

Leave them alone!

Salehi

Will you remove them from here or should we kill them and eat them? I’ll take your stove and refrigerator for now; once you’ve settled your rent I’ll give them back to you. (He turns to the workers who are busy tearing down the building.) Easy!

59-Street of Ali’s house-night

Dazed Ali moves toward his house carrying a plastic bag of groceries. When he sees that the house has been torn down he goes into a house across the street. His stuff has been put in the garage. The caretaker of the building comes out.

Caretaker

Who said you could put your rubbish here? What is this?

Ali

It’s just temporary… just for tonight.

Caretaker

Not possible! If the Master hears of this he’ll give me hell. I’ll call for a pick up to take you a couple of streets north. There’s a park there. You can set your stuff up in the park.

Ali

Come let’s have some of these sausages together tonight. We’ll take care of this crap tomorrow.

Caretaker

What the heck are you talking about? Get going! You’re blocking other people’s garage!

60-Park-day

Ali Voice Over

Ali has set up his tent in the park and is busy frying sausages. He’s also feeding the birds. Some tramps and junkies join him. Ali makes sandwiches for them. Gradually more are added to their number. Soon there’s nothing left for Ali himself. They have a smoke together and they drink. Ali play, the tramps dance.

61-Park-night

A strong storm is blowing. The rains destroys Ali’s tent. A double picture frame of Ali and Hanieh is broken. The wind carries Hanieh’s costume away.

62-Along the park-Kharababad-day

Ali is climbing the hill. He sees a group of junkies in front of a half finished building. He heads for the group sitting around the fire.

Ali

Sir, have you seen Mohsen Vishno or Jungle Hassan around here?

One of the Addicts

No, what business do you have with them?

Ali

I’ve been walking for four hours. I need a pick me up.

Another Addict

You need juice?

Ali

Yes.

Same Addict

You got any dough?

Ali

I do. (He pulls his money out of his pocket and shows it to them.)

Addict

Ok… sit down… let me pour you some tea.

63-The street of Ali and Hanieh’s house

Hanieh is looking at the torn down building in confusion.

Hanieh

Mr. Salehi! (She enters.) Is there anyone here?

The caretaker comes out.

Caretaker

He’s not here. He left.

Hanieh

Hello, Azizollah Khan!

Caretaker

Hello!

Hanieh

Where did he go?

Caretaker

I’m not sure but I know where he went for a couple of days. He was living in the park around the corner for a bit. Then he went to Kharababad.

Hanieh

In a park!

Caretaker

Yes!

Hanieh

How come they tore this building down?

Caretaker

They’ve torn it down to make a taller building.

Hanieh

Ok, thanks! Bye!

Caretaker

God be with you!

64-A room in a half finished building-day

Ali is sleeping beside the other addicts. Raindrops are dripping all over him from the cracks in the wall. He wakes up. He’s looking for his shoes. The guy sleeping next to him wakes up.

Addict

What are you looking for?

Ali

My shoes.

Addict

They took your shoes. You didn’t put them under your head.

Ali

Who took them?

Addict

Don’t you know that you’re supposed to put them under your head when you sleep? They took ‘em. Now you have to go barefoot. Three counts. Then a lifetime of begging. You lose track of who you are?

65-Half built building-continuation

Ali is searching for his shoes in the crowd of addicts who are lying or sleeping around the building. He sees the shoes of an old man and he wants to take them. Another addict who is squatting a bit further away sees him and moves forward.

First Addict

Take your hands off! He’s my corpse.

Ali

Corpse!?

First Addict

Yup. I found him, scumbag! Get out the way!

Second Addict

You seekin’ alms? Want to set up shop?

The first addict pushes him away. Another old man moves forward.

Old Man

He’s been hiding him for twenty four hours so that they don’t take him away. I keep telling him he’s dead and that he’s going to stink, he’s no use any more.

Ali

At least let me take his shoes.

First Addict

Sure I will!! Get out, we need some air in here.

Ali

Did you kill him?

First Addict

Yes I did… I killed him! (he pulls our a knife) You want me to kill you too?

Ali takes off and the junkie laughs.

66-Half built building-night-continuation

The addicts are standing looking at the rain. Ali heads toward an addict.

Ali

Uh… Mammad Jan… How are you doing, brother? You got any H?

Addict

Dough?

Ali

I’ll pay you. (Ali searches his pockets but doesn’t find anything.) They robbed me, those bastards!

Addict

Fuck off!

The addict moves away. Ali moves off with him, begging.

Ali

Come on Mammad, won’t you give me just a little of something?

Addict

The dough, Brother, dough!

Ali

Come onnnn. I gave you plenty to puff away. I even gave you opium to drop, you creep!

Addict

You?! When? You? You tight wad! You got the wrong man. Get lost!

Ali (moaning)

You son of a bitch, you took my wife, you destroyed my house, you wrecked my life… Now I only want a little bit… (he begins to cry). You bastards, just give me enough to stop the pain in my stomach! (the other addicts gather around him. They all watch him transfixed.) For God’s sakes my stomach is on fire. Just give me a tiny bit. I’m burning up.

67-In front of the unfinished building-day

Sitting facing a view of the city.
Ali is turning the dial on the radio. Thin and filthy, he is staring in front of him.

68-Hanieh’s mother’s house-past

Hanieh is sitting at the piano and playing.

Hanieh

Try this! (she plays a piece by Mozart)

Ali

Oh, Master Mozart!! Hit it!!

Hanieh

Wow, that was great! Bravo!

Ali is accompanying Hanieh on the santour.

69-Around Kharababad and the building-day

Ali is searching for food in the garbage bags. He finds a half eaten sandwich and starts to eat it. Javid’s car, with Hanieh sitting next to him, approaches.

Hanieh

Wait, let me ask this guy… let me ask… Excuse me, Sir, do you know which one is Sholeh Alley?

Ali turns and sees Hanieh. He takes off.

Hanieh

Sir… it was Ali… Ali… Ali… (She gets out of the car and runs after him but she loses him.) Where did you go? What happened to you?

Javid appears over her shoulder.

Hanieh

It was Ali.

Javid

Are you sure?

Hanieh

Yes.

Javid

You sure you’re not making a mistake?

Hanieh

Yes.

Javid

There’s no one here.

Hanieh

Give me your phone a minute.

Javid

Phone… (he hands her his cell phone).

Hanieh finds Ali’s father’s number in her phone book and dials.

Hanieh

Hello… Mr. Bolourchi…

Father

Yes?

Hanieh

Hello, how are you? Ali’s wife…

Father

Yes, of course, how are you?

Hanieh

Thank you I hope you’re well.

Father

Yes, thanks.

Hanieh

Well, I went to say good bye to Ali…

Father

Where are you going?

Hanieh

I am going to Canada.

Father

Are you two divorced?

Hanieh

Yes, it’s been a while. Well, they’ve torn down the building. We’ve come here looking for an address… Well, I saw him. But you wouldn’t recognize him if you saw him. He’s become a carton dweller. He just disappeared in front of my eyes. I have to leave, I don’t have time to look for him. I thought it might not be a bad idea for you to come here and find him. He really needs your help now…

Father

Where is he?

Hanieh

There’s a park at the top of Kashanak. Kharab Abad.

Father

Kharab Abad?

Hanieh

There. Thanks very much. Bye.

70-Half built building-night

Ali’s father enters the addicts’ district accompanied by Hamed. Seeing them, the addicts gather around them.

First Addict

What do you want?

Second Addict

I’ve got real good stuff. There’s X, hash, opium, heroin. Just tell me what it is you want.

Third Addict

Would you like some juice? Do you have a cigarette, Sir?

Father

No, I don’t!

Fourth Addict (to Hamed)

What about you? You got a cig?

Hamed

I don’t smoke.

A Group of Addicts

So what is it you want here? You’re not the cops are you? Have you come to arrest us?

One of the addicts who’s squatting in a corner

The cops?!

Another Addict

I think they’re the cops. Get rid of this stuff! Put it out! Get up, let’s go!

Hamed recognizes Ali from a distance

Hamed

Father, it’s Ali!

Father

Ali Jan, Little One!

One of the addicts blocks Father’s path.

First Addict

Have you come to take me? Come catch me!

Another Addict

You don’t look like cops!

Another addict aims at them with a syringe.

Addict

Would you care for some pasteurized Aids? The IV kind is greattttttt!!

Father and his group are forced to take off with the junkies on their heels.

71-Half built building-night

Voice Over First Addict

You got any idea how many million druggies there are in Tehran?

Voice OverAli

Million?

Voice Over First Addict

Yes.

Voice Over Second Addict

We have three kinds of junkies: convenience junkies, full time junkies and part time junkies.

Ali

So which group do we fall in?

Second Addict

Those who always indulge… if we can get it! But do you know what a real high is? It’s when you can put 80 grams of pure liquid gold in front of you, smoke thirty grams of it, roll twenty grams and swig it. Then four or five hours later take the other thirty grams and slowly smoke that away.

Another Addict

What I’d like is to shoot some after that first thirty grams, then take a couple of rolls of opium and smoke it all away.

Police sirens are heard. The addicts start scrambling.

Addicts

The cops are here guys… they’ve come!

The cops start arresting the addicts… They take Ali and some of the others and throw them into the prison van. Further away Ali’s father looks on from a car. In the car are Hamed and the driver.

72-Day-rehabilitation Center

Ali is sitting in the back of Father’s car with Father sitting beside him and Hamed sitting in the front. They enter the center. They part in front of a building and Hamed and Father lead Ali into the building.

73-The hallway of the Center

Ali is being given shock treatment.
Two nurses drag him along a corridor and into his room.

74-Ali’s room-continuation

The nurses tie Ali’s arms and legs to the bed. Another nurse looks on.

First Nurse

Could you please hand me that syringe?
Lady Nurse

Here! (She hands the syringe to the first nurse.)

Nurse

Thanks. This will wash out any toxins and poisons in the body. You’ll feel better, God willing.

75-Ali’s room-day

Ali is lying on the bed. A nurse is measuring his breathing.

76-Ali’s room-day

Ali is lying on the bed, writhing and screaming in agony. He’s sweating.

77-The hallway and the doctor’s office- a few days later

A nurse leads Ali into the doctor’s office.

Doctor

How are you Mr. Bolourchi? Ali Agha?

Hamed and Father are standing behind the doctor.

Father

Ali Jan.

Doctor

Let him sit down. (to the nurse) What did you inject him with?

Nurse

The usual.

Doctor

Alright, (he sits Ali down on the bed and shows Father to Ali) Ali Agha, do you know this gentleman?

Father

Ali Jan! Little One! Do you know me? Daddy’s little boy! Doctor, what’s wrong with him? What did you do to him?

Doctor (holds his hand up in front of
Ali’s eyes)

Don’t worry. He’s going to be alright. He just needs to sleep now.

78-Center grounds-day

Ali is exercising along with the other addicts under the supervision of a trainer.

Trainer

Push ups!

The trainer starts doing the push ups to show the addicts how to do them well.

Trainer

One… two… Move!! Move! Do it! You have to do ten of these! Get down!
Ali

Ten!?

Trainer

Don’t get up! Get down, down… well done!

79-Night-grounds of the Center

Various shots of Hamed and Father visiting Ali. They’ve brought him things to eat.

80-Ali’s room-day

The nurse gives Ali a pill.

81-Doctor’s office

Ali is sitting in front of the doctor looking healthy and well.

Ali

Doc, can’t you do something so that I can stay here? I’ll be released in a couple of days. I could do something here. Like I could teach the guys music. I could teach them to play the santour. Don’t let them take me back to that wild corrupt city. I’ll become what I was before! I’m just starting to gain my strength. Don’t destroy me one more time.

82-Hallway and Ali’s room-day

Ali crosses the hall and enters his room. On his table he sees a santour box. With joy and surprise he opens it… Ali begins to play. The sound of music is heard coming out of the ward and the patients are drawn to it.

83-Center grounds-day

Ali is teaching his friends to read music.

84-Center grounds—night

Ali and his friends have put on a show. Nurses, doctors, and the families of the rehabilitated are the guests at this concert.

Ali Sings

The pain of my ill fated life bear I,
With it well acquainted am I,
Your words do my wounds…
O, Loved One!

You who scorn my pain I address.
Laugh not, Loved One,
Instead
Come join me once more in an embrace.

Loneliness, a bitter nightmare,
O, Loved One!
My heart is lost in your absence!
O, Loved One…
O, Loved One…
O, Loved One…

Ali imagines Hanieh sitting in the front row and he smiles at her.