THE TRAGEDY OF JULIUS CAESAR. by Dan Gurskis. based on the play. by William Shakespeare

Transcription

1 THE TRAGEDY OF JULIUS CAESAR by Dan Gurskis based on the play by William Shakespeare

2 THE TRAGEDY OF JULIUS CAESAR FADE IN: A STATUE OF JULIUS CAESAR in a modern military dress uniform. Then, after a moment, it begins. First, a trickle. Then, a stream. Then, a rush. The statue is bleeding from the chest, the neck, the arms, the abdomen, the hands dozens of wounds. EXT. HILLY COUNTRYSIDE DAY DISSOLVE TO: Late winter. The ground is mottled with patches of snow and ice. BURNED IN are the words: "Kosovo, soon after the unrest." Somewhere in the distance, an open-topped Jeep bounces along a rutted, twisting road. INT. OPEN-TOPPED JEEP MOVING FLAVIUS and MARULLUS, two military officers in uniform, occupy the front passenger's seat and the rear seat, respectively. An ENLISTED MAN is behind the wheel. The three ride in silence for a moment, huddled against the cold, wind whipping through their hair. There is a casual almost careless air to the men. If they do not feel invincible, they feel at the very least unconcerned. Even the machine gun mounted on the rear of the Jeep goes unattended. Just then, automatic sniperfire RINGS OUT of the surrounding woods. The windshield SHATTERS. The driver's forehead explodes in a spray of blood and bone. He slumps over the steering wheel, pulling it hard to the side. ANGLE ON THE JEEP swerving off the road, flipping down an embankment. All three men are thrown from the Jeep, which comes to rest on its side. The driver, clearly dead, lies wide-eyed in a ditch. Flavius and Marullus, shaken but otherwise unharmed, scramble for cover as the GUNFIRE continues.

3 2. ANGLE ON THE WOODS The three SNIPERS rebel guerillas dressed in barely more than tatters move through the woods toward the road, FIRING their AK-47s as they go. ANGLE ON THE JEEP As automatic ROUNDS ricochet off the Jeep, Flavius reaches for his revolver. Marullus stops him with a raised hand. Flavius seems puzzled. ANGLE ON THE ROAD Not seeing Marullus or Flavius, the guerillas hold their fire, stop, listen. When they hear nothing, they lower their weapons slightly and approach the Jeep. ANGLE ON THE JEEP The guerillas move slowly INTO VIEW which is when we see that Flavius and Marullus have manned the Jeep's mounted machine gun. Firing it sideways (the Jeep is still resting on its side), Flavius and Marullus manage to cut down the guerillas before they get off a shot. As the guerillas lie twisted and bleeding, Flavius advances toward them, pulling his revolver from its holster. When he reaches the first guerilla (all but dead), he presses the barrel of his revolver to the back of the man's head and fires a single SHOT. He does the same for the next man he comes to, sprawled on the ground a few feet away. But the third guerilla, though gravely wounded, is still conscious. His lips move to form words that we cannot hear. This time, Flavius drops to a knee and places the barrel of his revolver to the guerilla's forehead so that the man can see what is about to be done. Only then does he FIRE. Flavius now returns to Marullus, who seems totally ambivalent to what he has witnessed. As they pause a moment to survey the scene, we hear OVER: (v.o.) Men at some time are masters of their (MORE)

4 (cont d) fates. The fault is not in our stars, but in ourselves, that we are underlings... CUT TO: 3. EXT. EMBANKMENT LATER Using two huge branches as levers, Marullus and Flavius right the Jeep. They then climb in, start it up, and drive off, leaving the bodies of both foe and friend to rot in the sun. SERIES OF SHOTS AN OLD WORLD CITY CUT TO: on the rebound from war. Much of the French-inspired architecture is still intact. Many of the boulevards and avenues are thriving. Yet, there are stretches some side by side with magnificent, perfectly preserved blocks that are little more than bombed out moonscapes. EXT. CITY STREET DAY CUT TO: Several dozen revelers occupy a deserted, war-ravaged block, singing, dancing, just generally celebrating. After a moment, the Jeep carrying Flavius and Marullus speeds around a corner toward them. INT. JEEP MOVING Flavius, who is behind the wheel, lays on the HORN. When the people in the street show no sign of getting out of the way, he brakes hard. The vehicle SCREECHES to a halt. ANGLE ON THE STREET The celebration continues, oblivious to the Jeep, even as Flavius BLASTS his horn again. Patience gone, he jumps from the vehicle and storms toward the revelers who, if they notice him at all, do little more than smile benignly. FLAVIUS Home, you idle creatures, get you home. When no one responds, he angrily grabs the nearest man by the lapels. FLAVIUS Is this a holiday?

5 4. Gradually, each of the revelers now stops, turns, faces him. REVELER But, indeed, sir, we make holiday, to see Caesar and to rejoice in his triumph. MARULLUS Wherefore rejoice? What conquest brings he home? Puzzled looks from the revelers. The man who Flavius has by the lapels nods at a half-dozen identical POSTERS plastered across a deserted storefront. Each bears a photograph of Caesar with the words, "HAIL CAESAR! / IDES OF MARCH / STADIUM." MARULLUS You blocks, you stones, you worse than senseless things. Run to your houses, fall upon your knees, pray to the gods to intermit the plague that needs must light on this ingratitude. An uncertain beat, as a few make tentative moves to leave. FLAVIUS Go, go, good countrymen... The revelers reluctantly gather their things and begin to disperse. FLAVIUS (to Marullus) They vanish tongue-tied in their guiltiness... Flavius and Marullus approach the line of posters plastered across the deserted storefront. FLAVIUS Go you down that way towards the Capitol, this way will I. (rips a poster of Caesar from the wall) Disrobe the images. May we do so? MARULLUS

6 (2) 5. FLAVIUS It is no matter. Let no images be hung with Caesar's trophies. I'll about and drive away the vulgar from the streets. So do you, too, where you perceive them thick. These growing feathers plucked from Caesar's wing will make him fly an ordinary height and keep us not in servile fearfulness. As Flavius climbs into the driver's side of the Jeep and Marullus starts on foot in the opposite direction, we: EXT. CAESAR'S OFFICIAL RESIDENCE DAY overlooking a majestic boulevard. INT. RESIDENCE BEDROOM CUT TO: Caesar stands by a window, gazing down at the BOULEVARD below, lowering a sash over his head onto his dress uniform. After a moment, he turns away from the window. Sprawled languorously across a canopied bed is his wife CALPURNIA. He crosses to her, pauses, then runs a single finger across her bare midriff. She smiles. He does not. INT. LIMOUSINE MOVING DAY CUT TO:, seated in the rear behind a glass partition, sees something in the road ahead. He bangs on the glass. The driver glances back. With a nod of the head, Cassius indicates that the driver should pull over to the side of the road. EXT. BOULEVARD IN FRONT OF CAESAR'S RESIDENCE Caesar steps out of his residence and approaches the security gates just as the 'S LIMOUSINE comes to a stop at the end of a long line of vehicles. Cassius hurries out of the limousine to join a group of officials, CASCA, DECIUS, CICERO who have been waiting patiently on the sidewalk.

7 6. Caesar walks past the gates, greeting each of the officials with handshakes, pats on the arm, etc., as a crowd of excited onlookers begins to gather. He waves regally to the crowd. After a moment, he turns back to see Calpurnia emerge from the residence. Calpurnia! CAESAR CASCA Peace, ho! Caesar speaks. Calpurnia! Here, my lord. CAESAR CALPURNIA Calpurnia steps past the gates just in time to cut off Marc Antony, who has been rushing across the street, briefcase in hand. CAESAR Stand you directly in Antonius' way, when he doth run his course. Antonius! Caesar, my lord? CAESAR Forget not, in your speed, Antonius, to touch Calpurnia. For our elders say the barren, touched in this holy chase, shake off their sterile curse. Slightly embarrassed looks among those gathered when they realize that Caesar means for Antony to touch Calpurnia's belly. Brutus seems especially troubled by the idea. I shall remember when Caesar says, "Do this," it is performed. A perfunctory brush of the hand across her midriff, which leaves Caesar as satisfied as not. Set on. CAESAR

8 (2) 7. Now, the various officials start for their cars only to realize that Caesar is forsaking his own in favor of walking. So as he and Calpurnia start arm-in-arm down the sidewalk, there is a mad scramble behind them. Officials headed for their cars suddenly change direction, while others already halfway inside their cars hurry to get out. EXT. SIDEWALK More onlookers stop and stare as the officials walk down the street en masse. Caesar leads the pack, intermittently stopping to shake hands with some citizen that he passes. SIDEWALK FARTHER UP A frail old GYPSY pushes his way through the crowd of spectators. Caesar! Who calls? GYPSY CAESAR CASCA Bid every noise be still: peace yet again! CAESAR I hear a tongue, shriller than all the music, cry "Caesar!" Speak. Caesar is turned to hear. GYPSY Beware the ides of March. Caesar now catches a glimpse of the Gypsy for the first time. CAESAR What man is that? A soothsayer bids you beware the ides of March. CAESAR Set him before me. Let me see his face.

9 8. Cassius security officers falling in at his side crosses to the Gypsy. Fellow, come from the throng, look upon Caesar. The Gypsy looks around, somewhat bewildered, before the crowd parts to allow him to come face to face with Caesar. CAESAR What say'st thou to me now? Speak once again. GYPSY Beware the ides of March. A rueful look between Calpurnia and Caesar. CAESAR (with great bravado) He is a dreamer. Let us leave him. Pass. The gypsy steps back and watches as the group continues along the sidewalk toward the large FOOTBALL (SOCCER) STADIUM directly ahead. ANGLE ON THE REAR OF THE ENTOURAGE Cassius takes Brutus by the arm, holding him back as the others move away. Will you go see the order of the course? Not I. I pray you, do. I am not gamesome. I do lack some part of that quick spirit that is in Antony. Let me not hinder, Cassius, your desires. I'll leave you. Brutus starts away. Cassius lingers momentarily before taking after him.

10 9. AND MOVING far behind Caesar's entourage, which is now entering the STADIUM ahead. Brutus, I do observe you now of late. I have not from your eyes that gentleness and show of love as I was wont to have. You bear too stubborn and too strange a hand over your friend that loves you. Cassius, be not deceived. If I have veiled my look, I turn the trouble of my countenance merely upon myself. Vexed I am but let not therefore my good friends be grieved (among which number, Cassius, be you one) nor construe any further my neglect than that poor Brutus, with himself at war, forgets the shows of love to other men. Then, Brutus, I have much mistook your passion. They continue toward the stadium. EXT. STADIUM GRANDSTANDS & PLAYING FIELD Filled beyond capacity as people swarm not only the grandstands but the playing field as well. All eyes are on a STAGE at one end of the stadium flanked by two enormous TELEVISION MONITORS where Caesar struts larger than life, waving to the adoring masses. EXT. STADIUM SIDE ENTRANCE Cassius about to enter the stadium and Brutus about to move on pause. Tell me, good Brutus, can you see your face? No, Cassius. For the eye sees not itself, but by reflection, by some other things.

11 10. 'Tis true. And it is very much lamented, Brutus, that you have no such mirrors as will turn your hidden worthiness into your eye that you might see. I have heard where many of the best, except immortal Caesar, speaking of Brutus and groaning underneath this age's yoke, have wished that noble Brutus had his eyes. Into what dangers would you lead me, Cassius, that you would have me seek into myself for that which is not in me? Good Brutus, be prepared to hear Just then, inside the stadium, the crowd ROARS. EXT. STADIUM GRANDSTANDS People are on their feet, cheering frenetically. EXT. STADIUM SIDE ENTRANCE Brutus and Caesar listen to the CHEERING for a moment, then: What means this shouting? I do fear, the people choose Caesar for their king. Ay, do you fear it? Then must I think you would not have it so. I would not, Cassius, yet I love him well. But wherefore do you hold me here so long? What is it that you would impart to me? If it be all toward the public good, set honor in one eye and death in the other, and I will look on both impartially as I love the name of honor more than I fear death.

12 11. I know that virtue to be in you, Brutus. Well, honor is the subject of my story... From inside the stadium, another CHEER swells. EXT. STADIUM STAGE Another general shout! People at the foot of the stage clamor for Caesar as he passes above them. EXT. STADIUM SIDE ENTRANCE Brutus takes a few thoughtful steps away from the entrance as the CHEERING continues inside the stadium. A thoughtful beat, then: I do believe that these applauses are for some new honors that are heaped on Caesar. Why, man, he doth bestride the narrow world like a Colossus, and we petty men walk under his huge legs and peep about to find ourselves dishonorable graves. Men at some time are masters of their fates: the fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves, that we are underlings. Brutus and Caesar: what should be in that "Caesar?" Why should that name be sounded more than yours? Write them together, yours is as fair a name. Sound them, it doth become the mouth as well; weigh them, it is as heavy; conjure with them, Brutus will start a spirit as soon as Caesar. Now, in the names of all the gods at once, upon what meat doth this our Caesar feed that he is grown so great? Age, thou art shamed! Thou hast lost the breed of noble bloods! What you have said I will consider. What you have to say I will with (MORE)

13 (cont d) patience hear and find a time to answer such high things. Till then, my noble friend, chew upon this: Brutus had rather be a villager than to repute himself under these hard conditions as this time is like to lay upon us. I am glad that my weak words have struck but thus much show of fire from Brutus. 12. INT. STADIUM TUNNEL Caesar leads his entourage from the stage into the passageway. The cheering of the crowd ECHOES around them. EXT. STADIUM SIDE ENTRANCE Brutus and Cassius make out the silhouettes of the entourage moving slowly toward them through the tunnel. The games are done and Caesar is returning. As they pass by, pluck Casca by the sleeve, and he will, after his sour fashion, tell you what hath proceeded worthy note today. I will do so. But look you, Cassius, the angry spot doth glow on Caesar's brow. AND 'S POV CAESAR does not seem particularly happy as he leads the entourage. REVERSE POV AND positioning themselves in anticipation of the entourage emerging from the stadium. Casca will tell us what the matter is.

14 13. CAESAR AND MOVING through the tunnel as Brutus and Cassius come INTO VIEW in the sunlight ahead. Antony! CAESAR A few steps behind, Antony quickly catches up to Caesar. Caesar? CAESAR Let me have men about me that are fat. Yond Cassius has a lean and hungry look. He thinks too much. Such men are dangerous. Fear him not, Caesar. He's not dangerous. EXT. STADIUM SIDE ENTRANCE With Antony by his side, Caesar steps out of the tunnel, passing Cassius and Brutus. He nods a small nod in their direction. Cassius and Brutus respond in kind. CAESAR AND MOVING away from Cassius and Brutus. CAESAR Would he were fatter! But I fear him not. Yet if my name were liable to fear, I do not know the man I should avoid so soon as that spare Cassius. He reads much. He is a great observer and he looks quite through the deeds of men. He loves no plays as thou dost, Antony. He hears no music. Seldom he smiles, and smiles in such a sort as if he mocked himself and scorned his spirit that could be moved to smile at any thing. Such men as he be never at heart's ease whiles they behold a greater than themselves, and therefore are they very dangerous... I rather tell thee what is to be feared than what I fear for always I am Caesar. Come on my right hand for this ear is deaf, (MORE)

15 CAESAR (cont d) And tell me truly what thou thinks of him. 14. THE ENTOURAGE continues away from the stadium as Brutus and Cassius spirit Casca away from the group. HANDS CASCA You pulled me by the cloak. Would you speak with me? Ay, Casca. Tell us what hath chanced today that Caesar looks so sad. CASCA Why, you were with him, were you not? I should not then ask Casca what had chanced. CASCA Why, there was a crown offered him... FLASH ON: of some otherwise unseen figure offering a crown to Caesar. EXT. STADIUM SIDE ENTRANCE PRESENT Brutus and Cassius hang on Casca's every word. BACK TO: CASCA... and being offered him, he put it by with the back of his hand thus and then the people fell a-shouting. What was the second noise for? CASCA Why, for that, too. FLASH ON:

16 15. HANDS of the unseen figure again offering the crown to Caesar, who in rejecting it drives the crowd into a frenzy. EXT. STADIUM SIDE ENTRANCE AS BEFORE Brutus and Cassius's concern deepens. They shouted thrice. What was the last cry for? CASCA Why, for that, too. Was the crown offered him thrice? BACK TO: CASCA Ay, truly, was it, and he put it by thrice, every time gentler than other. And at every putting-by, mine honest neighbors shouted. Who offered him the crown? offering the crown to Caesar. EXT. STADIUM SIDE ENTRANCE AS BEFORE FLASH ON: BACK TO: Why, Antony. CASCA Casca starts away, but Brutus grabs him by the arm. Tell us the manner of it, gentle Casca. CASCA I saw Mark Antony offer him a crown yet 'twas not a crown neither, 'twas one of these coronets and, as I (MORE)

17 CASCA (cont d) told you, he put it by once. But, for all that, to my thinking EXT. STADIUM STAGE FLASHBACK A new angle reveals that Caesar at least in Casca's memory of it seems none too eager to reject the crown when it is offered to him. CASCA (v.o.)... he would fain have had it. Then he offered it to him again. Then he put it by again. But, to my thinking, he was very loath to lay his fingers off it. EXT. STADIUM SIDE ENTRANCE AS BEFORE Brutus and Cassius listen intently to Casca. CASCA And then he offered it the third time. He put it the third time by... EXT. STADIUM GRANDSTAND FLASHBACK People in the stands cheer exuberantly. CASCA (v.o.) And, still, as he refused it, the rabblement hooted and clapped their chapped hands and threw up their sweaty caps... EXT. STADIUM SIDE ENTRANCE AS BEFORE CASCA... and uttered such a deal of stinking breath because Caesar refused the crown that it had almost choked Caesar. I could tell you more news, too... EXT. STREET FLASHBACK DAY Flavius and Marullus are in the process of ripping down posters of Caesar from the wall of a building when a JEEP carrying four MILITARY POLICE OFFICERS skids to a halt. Weapons drawn, the MPs jump from the Jeep and descend on Flavius and Marullus.

18 17. CASCA (v.o.) Marullus and Flavius, for pulling off Caesar's images, are put to silence. EXT. BLEAK COUNTRYSIDE FLASHBACK DAY Flavius and Marullus, blindfolded, face a firing squad. SHOTS ring out. They fall. EXT. STADIUM SIDE ENTRANCE AS BEFORE Brutus and Cassius look grim. BACK TO: CASCA Fare you well. There was more foolery yet if I could remember it. As Casca starts off, Cassius takes him by the arm again. Will you sup with me tonight, Casca? CASCA No, I am promised forth. Will you dine with me tomorrow? CASCA Ay, if I be alive and your dinner worth the eating. Good. I will expect you. CASCA Do so. Farewell, both. Cassius and Brutus watch Casca as he walks slowly away. What a blunt fellow is this grown to be! He was quick mettle when he went to school. This rudeness is a sauce to his good wit, which gives men stomach to digest his words with better appetite.

19 18. And so it is. For this time I will leave you. Tomorrow, if you please to speak with me, I will come home to you. Or, if you will, come home to me, and I will wait for you. I will do so. Till then, think of the world. They shake hands and Brutus starts off. (to himself, as he watches Brutus go) Well, Brutus, thou art noble. Yet, I see thy honorable metal may be wrought from that it is disposed. Therefore it is right that noble minds keep ever with their likes for who so firm that cannot be seduced? THE STATUE OF JULIUS CAESAR CUT TO: bleeding from the chest, the neck, the arms, the abdomen, the hands. The CAMERA moves slowly BACK to reveal Cassius, Casca, Decius Brutus, Cinna, and others bathing themselves in the pooling blood. INT. BEDROOM NIGHT SMASH CUT TO: Calpurnia bolts upright in bed, her face thick with sweat, shaken by her dream of Caesar. A THUNDERBOLT outside her window illuminates her room, startling her with its violence. EXT. STREET NIGHT CUT TO: THUNDER and LIGHTNING ricochet through the skies. Cassius moves purposefully along the rain-slicked street below when he senses someone lurking in the shadows. Who's there?

20 19. A man. CASCA Casca, by your voice. Casca steps into the light under an OVERHANG where he has been waiting out the storm. CASCA Your ear is good. Cassius, what night is this! Cassius goes to him, moving out of the rain. A very pleasing night to honest men. CASCA Who ever knew the heavens menace so? Now could I, Casca, name to thee a man most like this dreadful night that thunders, lightens, opens graves, and roars as doth the lion in the Capitol a man no mightier than thyself or me in personal action, yet ominous and fearsome as these strange eruptions are. CASCA 'Tis Caesar that you mean is it not, Cassius? Indeed, they say the senators tomorrow mean to establish Caesar as a king, and he shall wear his crown in every place. I know where I will wear this dagger then. Cassius from bondage will deliver Cassius. If I know this, know all the world besides that part of tyranny that I do bear I can shake off at pleasure. CASCA So can I. So every slave in his own hand bears the power to cancel his captivity.

21 (2) 20. And why should Caesar be a tyrant then? Poor man! I know he would not be a wolf but that he sees we are but sheep. What trash are we what rubbish and what offal when we serve as the base matter to illuminate so vile a thing as Caesar! A tense beat. Cassius has played his hand, and Casca is not responding. A bolt of LIGHTNING crackles across the sky. Then: CASCA (extending a hand) Hold my hand... Cassius steps closer. The men shake hands. CASCA I will set this foot of mine as far as he who goes farthest. There's a bargain made. Now know you, Casca, I have moved already some certain of the noblest-minded to undergo with me an enterprise of honorable-dangerous consequence. And I do know, by now, they wait for me... A figure approaches through the rain. CASCA (moving into the shadows) Stand close awhile, for here comes one in haste. 'Tis Cinna. I do know him by his gait. He is a friend. CINNA now ducks under the overhang. CASCA Cinna, where haste you so?

22 (3) 21. CINNA To find out you. Who's that? Metellus Cimber? No, it is Casca, one in sympathy to our attempts. CINNA What a fearful night is this! There's two or three of us have seen strange sights. Am I not awaited? Tell me. CINNA Yes, you are. O Cassius, if you could but win the noble Brutus to our party Be you content. Good Cinna, take this paper... From his pocket, he removes a letter and hands it to Cinna. And look you lay it where Brutus may but find it. He hands over a second letter this one weighted down by a rock. Now, a third letter. And throw this in at his window... Set upon old Brutus' statue: all this done, repair to Pompey's porch, where you shall find us. Cinna pockets the letters then disappears into the stormy darkness. Come, Casca, you and I will before day see Brutus at his house. Three parts of him is ours already. And the man entire the next encounter yields ours.

23 (4) 22. CASCA O, he sits high in all the people's hearts. And that which would appear offense in us, his countenance like richest alchemy will change to virtue and to worthiness. Him and his worth and our great need of him you have right well conceited. Let us go. For it is after midnight, and before day we will awake him and be sure of him. As they start off into the rain, we: INT. THE HOUSE OF STUDY NIGHT CUT TO: The hour is late. Brutus paces. Suddenly, a THUNDERCLAP. The lights flicker and dim. (calling out) What, Lucius, ho! The house is in darkness. He stumbles around, looking for something to use for illumination. Lucius, I say! When there is no response, Brutus crosses to the doors of his study and moves outside to: EXT. VERANDAH Brutus walks the length of the verandah until he reaches a small cottage detached from the main house. Visible through the open door is LUCIUS, asleep on a cot. I would it were my fault to sleep so soundly. He steps inside the doorway and gives Lucius a shake. Awake, I say. Lucius stirs, sits up groggily. Brutus returns outside the doorway.

24 23. LUCIUS Called you, my lord? Get me a taper in my study, Lucius. When it is lighted, come and call me here. I will, my lord. LUCIUS Lucius hurries into the main house, pulling on his uniform jacket as he goes. Brutus gazes up at the sky. The rain is letting up. He rambles away from the house to: EXT. ORCHARD Brutus walks alone among the trees, looming dark and ominous. (to himself) It must be by his death, and for my part, I know no personal cause to spurn at him but for the general. He would be crowned. How that might change his nature there's the question. The abuse of greatness is when it disjoins remorse from power. And, to speak truth of Caesar, I have not known when his affections swayed more than his reason. As he walks, he comes across some pruning tools including a ladder where he pauses. Lucius returns. But 'tis a common proof that lowliness is young ambition's ladder where the climber upward turns his face. But when he once attains the upmost rung, he then unto the ladder turns his back, looks in the clouds, scorning the base degrees by which he did ascend. So Caesar may. LUCIUS The taper burns in your study, sir.

25 24. In his hand is one of the letters that Cassius gave to Cinna. LUCIUS Searching the window for a flint, I found this paper, thus sealed up, and I am sure it did not lie there when I went to bed. Lucius gives the letter to Brutus, who takes a few steps away and begins to read it. (to himself) "Brutus, thou sleep'st. Awake and see thyself. Shall we stand under one man's awe? Speak, strike, redress!" He pauses for a moment, studying the letter. "Brutus, thou sleep'st. Awake!" "Speak, strike, redress!" Am I entreated to speak and strike? O, I make thee promise: if the redress will follow, thou receivest thy full petition at the hand of Brutus! A loud KNOCKING from inside the house. He turns to see Lucius waiting a few yards away. Lucius enters the house. Go to the gate. Somebody knocks. (to himself) Since Cassius first did whet me against Caesar, I have not slept. Between the acting of a dreadful thing and the first motion, all the interim is like a phantasma, or a hideous dream. The Genius and the mortal instruments are then in council, and the state of man, like to a little kingdom, suffers then the nature of an insurrection.

26 25. EXT. 'S HOUSE FRONT GATE Lucius speaks with a half-dozen men who, with their coat collars turned up against the night, are impossible to recognize. Then, leaving the men outside the gate, he returns to the house. EXT. ORCHARD Lucius emerges from the rear of the house and goes to Brutus. LUCIUS Sir, 'tis Cassius at the door. Is he alone? LUCIUS No, sir. There are more with him. Do you know them? LUCIUS No, sir. Their hats are plucked about their ears, and half their faces buried in their cloaks. Let them enter. Lucius goes back into the house. (to himself) O conspiracy, shamest thou to show thy dangerous brow by night when evils are most free? Cassius now emerges from the house. With him are his fellow conspirators: Casca, Decius Brutus, Cinna, METELLUS CIMBER, and TREBONIUS. Good morrow, Brutus. Do we trouble you? With a nod of the head, Brutus dismisses Lucius, who returns to his quarters.

27 26. I think we are too bold upon your rest. I have been up this hour, awake all night. Know I these men that come along with you? The men pull down their collars, revealing themselves. Yes, every man of them, and no man here but honors you. And every one doth wish you had but that opinion of yourself which every noble man bears of you. This is Trebonius. He is welcome hither. This, Decius Brutus. He is welcome, too. This, Casca. This, Cinna. And this, Metellus Cimber. They are all welcome. An expectant beat, as all eyes are on Brutus. Give me your hands all over, one by one. Brutus shakes hands with each man. And let us swear our resolution. No, not an oath. What need we any spur but our own cause to prick us to redress? What other oath than honesty to honesty engaged. Ambivalent nods from the men.

28 (2) 27. DECIUS Shall no man else be touched but only Caesar? Decius, well urged. I think it is not right, Mark Antony, so well beloved of Caesar, should outlive Caesar. We shall find him a shrewd contriver, and, you know his means. Let Antony and Caesar fall together. Our course will seem too bloody, Caius Cassius, to cut the head off and then hack the limbs. For Antony is but a limb of Caesar. Let us be sacrificers, but not butchers, Caius. We all stand up against the spirit of Caesar. And in the spirit of men there is no blood. O, that we then could come by Caesar's spirit and not dismember Caesar. But, alas, Caesar must bleed for it. And, gentle friends, let's kill him boldly but not wrathfully. Let's carve him as a dish fit for the gods, not hew him as a carcass fit for hounds. We shall be called purgers, not murderers. As for Mark Antony, think not of him. For he can do no more than Caesar's arm when Caesar's head is off. Yet I fear him. For in the love he bears to Caesar Alas, good Cassius, do not think of him. If he love Caesar, all that he can do is to himself take thought and die for Caesar. And that were much he should. For he is given to sports, to wildness and much company. TREBONIUS Let him not die. For he will live and laugh at this hereafter. Inside the house, a CLOCK strikes. TREBONIUS 'Tis time to part.

29 (3) 28. But it is doubtful yet whether Caesar will come forth today, or no. For he is superstitious grown of late, and it may hold him from the Capitol today. DECIUS Never fear that. If he be so resolved, I can o'ersway him, and I will bring him to the Capitol. Nay, we will all of us be there to fetch him. By the eighth hour. CINNA And fail not then. The morning comes upon us. We'll leave you, Brutus. And, friends, disperse yourselves. But all remember what you have said, and show yourselves true. Brutus leads the men into the house, stopping at the door of his study to pick up the candle that Lucius has lighted for him. THE CONSPIRATORS MOVING through the house by candlelight with Brutus in the lead. INT. FOYER When the men reach the front door, they pause. Good gentlemen, look fresh and merrily. Let not our looks put on our purposes. And so good morrow to you every one. The men exit. Brutus closes the door after them. Then, just as he turns from the door, he hears: (o.s.) Brutus, my lord! PORTIA

30 29. PORTIA, candle in hand, walks INTO VIEW. Brutus studies her for a moment, wondering what, if anything, she has seen of the conspirators. Portia, what mean you? Wherefore rise you now? It is not for your health thus to commit your weak condition to the raw cold morning. PORTIA Nor for yours either. You've ungently, Brutus, stole from my bed. And yesternight, at supper, you suddenly arose, and walked about, musing and sighing, with your arms across. And when I asked you what the matter was, you stared upon me with ungentle looks. I urged you further, then you scratched your head, and too impatiently stamped with your foot. Yet I insisted, yet you answered not, but with an angry waving of your hand, gave sign for me to leave you. So I did, fearing to strengthen that impatience. It will not let you eat, nor talk, nor sleep. And could it work so much upon your shape as it hath much prevailed on your condition, I should not know you, Brutus. Dear my lord make me acquainted with your cause of grief. I am not well in health, and that is all. Brutus starts down the hallway. Portia quickly follows. PORTIA Brutus is wise, and were he not in health, he would embrace the means to come by it. Why, so I do. Good Portia, go to bed. Brutus enters his study with Portia only a step or two behind.

31 30. INT. STUDY With his candle lighting the way, Brutus crosses to a liquor cabinet and removes a bottle of vodka and a glass. PORTIA You have some sick offense within your mind, which, by the right and virtue of my place, I ought to know of. He doesn't respond, instead pouring a drink for himself. PORTIA Upon my knees, I charm you unfold to me yourself, why you are heavy, and what men tonight have had to resort to you. For here have been some six or seven, who did hide their faces even from darkness. He turns away from the liquor cabinet, but she intercepts him, now falling to one knee literally. Kneel not, gentle Portia. PORTIA I should not need, if you were gentle Brutus. Within the bond of marriage, tell me, Brutus, is it excepted I should know no secrets that appertain to you? If it be no more, Portia is Brutus' harlot, not his wife. You are my true and honorable wife, as dear to me as are the ruddy drops that visit my sad heart. PORTIA If this were true, then I should know this secret. Tell me your counsels. I will not disclose them. A KNOCK at the front door. Hark, hark! One knocks. Portia, go. And by and by, thy bosom shall partake the secrets of my heart. Leave me with haste.

32 31. She exits. He pauses a moment. Render me worthy of this noble wife! He downs his drink in a single swallow then starts for: INT. FOYER Lucius has already answered the door and admitted CAIUS LIGARIUS sickly, frail when Brutus appears. LUCIUS (whispering into Brutus's ear) He is a sick man that would speak with you. Brutus dismisses Lucius with a nod. O, what a time have you chose out, brave Caius. LIGARIUS I am not sick, if Brutus have in hand any exploit worthy the name of honor. Such an exploit have I in hand, Ligarius, had you a healthful ear to hear of it. LIGARIUS I here discard my sickness! What's to do? A piece of work that will make sick men whole. LIGARIUS But are not some whole that we must make sick? That must we also. What it is, my Caius, I shall unfold to thee, as we are going to whom it must be done. LIGARIUS Set on your foot, and with a heart new-fired I follow you to do I know (MORE)

33 LIGARIUS (cont d) not what. But it sufficeth that Brutus leads me on. 32. Follow me, then. CUT TO: EXT. CITY SKYLINE DAY Dawn spills across the old world city. INT. CAESAR'S RESIDENCE SITTING ROOM DAY CUT TO: Caesar stands in front of a mirror, adjusting his dress uniform, when Calpurnia enters. CALPURNIA What mean you, Caesar? Think you to walk forth? You shall not stir out of your house today. CAESAR Caesar shall forth. The things that threatened me ne'er looked but on my back. When they shall see the face of Caesar, they are vanished. CALPURNIA Caesar, I never stood on ceremonies, yet now they fright me. CAESAR What can be avoided whose end is purposed by the mighty gods? Yet Caesar shall go forth. For these predictions are to the world in general as to Caesar. CALPURNIA When beggars die, there are no comets seen. The heavens themselves blaze forth the death of princes. CAESAR Cowards die many times before their deaths; the valiant never taste of death but once. Of all the wonders that I yet have heard, it seems to me most strange that men should fear. Seeing that death, a necessary end, will come when it will come.

34 33. CALPURNIA Alas, my lord, your wisdom is consumed in confidence. Do not go forth today. Call it my fear that keeps you in the house and not your own. We'll send Mark Antony to the senate-house, and he shall say you are not well today. Let me, upon my knee, prevail in this. A beat, as he considers what she has asked of him, then: CAESAR Mark Antony shall say I am not well, And, for thy humor, I will stay at home. A KNOCK at the open door. Caesar turns to see Decius Brutus. CAESAR Here's Decius Brutus. He shall tell them so. DECIUS (salutes) Caesar, all hail! (crosses to Caesar and shakes his hand) Good morrow, worthy Caesar. I come to fetch you to the senate-house. CAESAR And you are come in time to bear my greeting to the senators and tell them that I will not come today. Cannot, is false, and that I dare not, falser. I will not come today tell them so, Decius. Decius takes extraordinary pains to conceal his feelings. Say he is sick. CALPURNIA CAESAR Shall Caesar send a lie? Have I in conquest stretched mine arm so far to be afraid to tell graybeards the truth? Decius, go tell them Caesar will not come.

35 (2) 34. DECIUS Most mighty Caesar, let me know some cause, lest I be laughed at when I tell them so. CAESAR (severely) The cause is in my will. I will not come. That is enough to satisfy the senate. (softening) But for your private satisfaction, because I love you, I will let you know. Calpurnia here, my wife, stays me at home. She dreamt tonight she saw my statue... THE STATUE OF JULIUS CAESAR bleeding from the chest, the neck, the arms, the abdomen, the hands. CAESAR (o.s.)... which, like a fountain with an hundred spouts, did run pure blood... The CAMERA moves slowly BACK to reveal Cassius, Casca, Decius Brutus, Cinna, and others bathing themselves in the pooling blood. CAESAR (o.s.)... and many came smiling, and did bathe their hands in it... INT. SITTING ROOM AS BEFORE Decius Brutus stiffens at what he hears. CAESAR... and on her knee hath begged that I will stay at home today. DECIUS (quickly) This dream is all amiss interpreted. It was a vision fair and fortunate. Your statue spouting blood, in which so many bathed, signifies that from you shall our country suck reviving blood. This by Calpurnia's dream is signified.

36 35. A look between Caesar and Calpurnia she's unmoved. As for Caesar... CAESAR And this way have you well expounded it. DECIUS I have when you have heard what I can say. The senate have concluded to give this day a crown to mighty Caesar. If you shall send them word you will not come, their minds may change. Besides, it were a mock apt to be rendered, for someone to say, "Break up the senate till another time when Caesar's wife shall meet with better dreams." If Caesar hide himself, shall they not whisper, "Lo, Caesar is afraid?" Pardon me, Caesar, for my dear love to our proceeding bids me tell you this. Caesar approaches Calpurnia, who has sequestered herself in a corner of the room. CAESAR How foolish do your fears seem now, Calpurnia! I am ashamed I did yield to them. A KNOCK at the open door, and Brutus, Ligarius, Metellus, Casca, Trebonius, Cinna, and the elderly PUBLIUS enter. Seeing the men assembled, Calpurnia leaves through the nearest door. Her departure is barely noticed. CAESAR And look where Publius is come to fetch me. PUBLIUS Good morrow, Caesar. CAESAR Welcome, Publius. What, Brutus, are you stirred so early too? Good morrow, Casca. (eyeing the sickly Ligarius) Caius Ligarius, what is 't o'clock?

37 (2) 36. Caesar, 'tis stricken eight. CAESAR I thank you for your pains and courtesy. Another KNOCK and Antony enters. CAESAR See! Antony that revels long o' nights is notwithstanding up. Good morrow, Antony. So to most noble Caesar. CAESAR Bid them prepare within. I am to blame to be thus waited for. Now, Cinna now, Metellus what, Trebonius! I have an hour's talk in store for you. Remember that you call on me today. Be near me, that I may remember you. TREBONIUS Caesar, I will... (to himself) And so near will I be that your best friends shall wish I had been further. CAESAR Good friends, go in, and taste some wine with me... Caesar now leads the group into an adjoining room. CAESAR (exiting) And we, like friends, will straightway go together. Only Brutus remains, watching as the last man leaves the room. He then turns toward a larger-than-life PAINTING OF CAESAR hanging over a fireplace. (to himself) That every like is not the same, O Caesar, the heart of Brutus yearns to think upon!

38 37. EXT. STREET DAY Along a deserted, war-ravaged block, ARTEMIDORUS reads from a paper with some words scrawled upon on it. ARTEMIDORUS (reading what he has written) "Caesar, beware of Brutus. Take heed of Cassius. Come not near Casca. Have an eye to Cinna. Trust not Trebonius. Mark well Metellus Cimber. Decius Brutus loves thee not. Thou hast wronged Caius Ligarius. There is but one mind in all these men, and it is bent against Caesar. If thou beest not immortal, look about you: security gives way to conspiracy. The mighty gods defend thee! Thy friend, Artemidorus." He lowers the paper then looks a few blocks ahead toward an AVENUE, one of those that has been virtually untouched by war. The capitol rises up in the b.g. He starts for it. ARTEMIDORUS MOVING in the direction of the avenue. ARTEMIDORUS (lowering the paper) Here will I stand till Caesar pass along, and as a suitor will I give him this. If thou read this, O Caesar, thou mayst live. If not, the Fates with traitors do contrive. CUT TO: EXT. SIDEWALK BEFORE THE HOUSE OF DAY The sidewalk is crowded with people all moving in the same direction toward the capitol. Portia, in an obvious state of distraction, emerges through the gates. Lucius is a few steps behind. Lucius only stares. PORTIA I prithee, boy, run to the senatehouse. Stay not to answer me, but get thee gone.

39 38. PORTIA Why dost thou stay? LUCIUS To know my errand, madam. PORTIA I would have had thee there and here again ere I can tell thee what thou shouldst do there. She turns away, deep in thought. When she turns back, Lucius is just where he was. PORTIA Art thou here yet? LUCIUS Madam, what should I do? Run to the Capitol, and nothing else? And so return to you, and nothing else? PORTIA Yes, bring me word, boy, if thy lord look well. For he went sickly forth. And take good note what Caesar doth, what suitors press to him. Just then, the Gypsy passes. She calls to him. Come hither. PORTIA The Gypsy approaches her warily. PORTIA Which way hast thou been? GYPSY At mine own house, good lady. PORTIA Is Caesar yet gone to the Capitol? GYPSY Madam, not yet. I go to take my stand, to see him pass on to the Capitol. PORTIA Thou hast some suit to Caesar, hast thou not?

40 (2) 39. GYPSY That I have, lady. If it will please Caesar to be so good to Caesar as to hear me, I shall beseech him to befriend himself. PORTIA Why, know'st thou any harm's intended towards him? GYPSY None that I know will be, much that I fear may chance. Good morrow to you. Here the street is narrow. The throng that follows Caesar at the heels will crowd a feeble man almost to death. I'll get me to a place more void, and there speak to great Caesar as he comes along. The Gypsy continues down the road. PORTIA I must go in. O, I grow faint. Run, Lucius, and commend me to my lord. Say I am merry. Come to me again and bring me word what he doth say to thee. Lucius watches Portia hurry past the gates, up the walkway, and inside the house. He then jogs away. LUCIUS MOVING along one bombed out block... down an alley... onto a block of tidy houses... down another alley... onto a teeming boulevard... until finally he reaches: EXT. CAPITOL PLAZA DAY A crowd among them Artemidorus and the Gypsy has gathered in anticipation of Caesar's arrival. After a moment, Caesar's entourage moves INTO VIEW. The crowd closes in. Plainclothes agents wearing sunglasses and earpieces nudge them back. ANGLE ON THE ENTOURAGE as Caesar leads it PAST. It's then that he spots the Gypsy. The entourage slows as he goes to the Gypsy.

41 40. CAESAR The ides of March are come. GYPSY Ay, Caesar, but not gone. Artemidorus, meanwhile, has jostled his way to the front of the crowd so that he is nearly face-to-face with Caesar. ARTEMIDORUS Hail, Caesar! (holding out his letter) Read this schedule. Seeing this and sensing the worst, Decius Brutus quickly inserts himself between the two men. DECIUS (with a letter of his own) Trebonius doth desire you to o'erread at your best leisure this his humble suit. ARTEMIDORUS O Caesar, read mine first. For mine's a suit that touches Caesar nearer. Read it, great Caesar. CAESAR What touches us ourself shall be last served. As Caesar turns away, Artemidorus thrusts out a hand and grabs him by the sleeve. Instantly, the agents in plainclothes pounce on him, shoving him to the ground and immobilizing him there. ARTEMIDORUS (from the ground, as the agents handcuff him) Delay not, Caesar. Read it instantly. CAESAR (turning away) What, is the fellow mad? Artemidorus watches helplessly from the ground as Caesar walks away for: EXT. CAPITOL STEPS As Caesar leads the entourage up the steps, he is met by the senator POPILUS.

42 41. POPILIUS I wish your enterprise today may thrive. What enterprise, Popilius? Fare you well. POPILIUS ANGLE ON THE REAR OF THE ENTOURAGE where Brutus and Cassius watch from a distance as Caesar and Popilus confer at the top of the steps. What said Popilius Lena? He wished today our enterprise might thrive. I fear our purpose is discovered. Look, how he makes to Caesar. Mark him. The two men study Caesar and Popilus as they continue speaking. It's then that they notice Casca move closer to Caesar. Casca, be sudden, for we fear prevention. Instead of interrupting Caesar, Casca simply stands by, saying and doing nothing. Brutus, what shall be done? If this be known, Cassius or Caesar never shall turn back for I will slay myself. A tense beat, as they watch Caesar and Popilus continue to confer. Cassius, be constant. Popilius Lena speaks not of our purposes for, look, he smiles, and Caesar doth not change.

43 42. Trebonius knows his time for, look you, Brutus... ANGLE ON THE TOP OF THE STEPS Just as Mark Antony is about to join Caesar and Popilus, Trebonius intercepts him with a few words. ANGLE ON AND as they watch Trebonius lead Antony away as he continues speaking with him. He draws Mark Antony out of the way. Just then, Decius Brutus walks INTO VIEW. DECIUS Where is Metellus Cimber? Let him go and presently prefer his suit to Caesar. ANGLE ON THE TOP OF THE STEPS Metellus Cimber climbs the steps and approaches Caesar, edging Popilus out of the way. Caesar, however, listens to no more than a word or two from Metellus Cimber before starting toward the Capitol's main entrance. Metellus Cimber is quickly swallowed by the passing entourage. ANGLE ON THE REAR OF THE ENTOURAGE as Brutus, Cassius, and Decius Brutus start up the steps. He is addressed. Press near and second him. Decius Brutus moves ahead. EXT. CAPITOL MAIN ENTRANCE Caesar leads the entourage inside. We HOLD on Cinna as he takes Casca aside. Casca nods gravely. CINNA Casca, you are the first that rears your hand.

44 43. INT. CAPITOL MAIN ENTRANCE Uniformed guards man a metal detector. The entourage avoids it as Caesar leads them through a doorway marked, "OFFICIALS ONLY." SERIES OF SHOTS THROUGH THE CAPITOL Caesar leads his entourage briskly down one increasingly deserted corridor after another until they finally reach: INT. ANTEROOM OUTSIDE THE SENATE CHAMBER Caesar pauses at the door and turns to face his entourage. CAESAR Are we all ready? Looks all around. No one says a word or makes a move until Metellus Cimber pushes his way to the front of the entourage. Caesar is less than thrilled to see him again. CAESAR What is now amiss that Caesar and his senate must redress? METELLUS CIMBER Most high, most mighty, and most powerful Caesar, Metellus Cimber throws before thy seat an humble heart. CAESAR I must prevent thee, Cimber. Thy brother by decree is banished. If thou dost bend and pray and fawn for him, I spurn thee like a cur out of my way. Know, Caesar doth not wrong, nor without cause will he be satisfied. METELLUS CIMBER Is there no voice more worthy than my own to sound more sweetly in great Caesar's ear for the repealing of my banished brother? Brutus makes eye contact with Casca, who appears hesitant to start the assassination. So Brutus moves closer to Caesar until he is side by side with him. I kiss thy hand, but not in flattery, Caesar, desiring thee that Publius (MORE)

45 (cont d) Cimber may have an immediate freedom of repeal. 44. What, Brutus! CAESAR Cassius makes eye contact with Casca, who still appears hesitant. So Cassius moves closer to Caesar. Pardon, Caesar Caesar, pardon. As low as to thy foot doth Cassius fall to beg enfranchisement for Publius Cimber. CAESAR I could be well moved, if I were as you. If I could pray to move, prayers would move me. But I am constant as the northern star of whose true-fixed and resting quality there is no fellow in the firmament. That I was constant Cimber should be banished, and constant do remain to keep him so. Now, Cinna makes eye contact with Casca. Nervous sweat has gathered on his brow. Even Caesar senses something is amiss. Unable to wait any longer, Cinna and Decius Brutus decide to take the lead. They close in on Caesar. Trebonius sprints to the end of the corridor where he closes and locks the door. O Caesar Great Caesar CINNA DECIUS Seeing Cinna and Decius Brutus moving toward Caesar, Casca suddenly finds his courage and bursts ahead of them, pulling a revolver from inside his coat. CASCA Speak, hands for me! Caesar watches wide-eyed as Casca gets off the first SHOT, hitting him in the chest, drilling him into a wall. Caesar staggers, smearing blood across the white tile wall, managing to upright himself in time to see the rest Cinna, Decius Brutus, Cassius, and Brutus FIRE.

46 (2) 45. Caesar jitters and twitches as ROUND after ROUND tears through him. When the GUNFIRE stops and its report ECHOES through the corridor, Caesar still stands if only for a moment. THE STATUE OF JULIUS CAESAR FLASH ON: bleeding from the chest, the neck, the arms, the abdomen, the hands. INT. ANTEROOM AS BEFORE BACK TO: Caesar slides down the wall to the floor. Brutus rushes to his side, his revolver still drawn. Et tu, Brute... CAESAR Brutus cradles the head of the dying Caesar, while Antony who has witnessed everything storms down the corridor. ANGLE ON THE END OF THE CORRIDOR where Trebonius has been standing guard by the locked door. A furious look from Antony, who kicks open the locked door and rushes out. Several women and children perhaps castaways from tour group peer through the doorway. Seeing Caesar bleeding to death on the floor in the distance, they shriek and run. INT. ANTEROOM Brutus is still by Caesar's side, kneeling in his pooling blood. CAESAR Then fall, Caesar. Caesar exhales hoarsely a death rattle. He now stares unseeing at Brutus's face. Just then, the door to the senate chamber bursts open. In rush a dozen senators and their aides, stopping short when they see Caesar dead on the floor. CINNA Liberty! Freedom! Tyranny is dead!