(Write about a time you helped someone and how it made you feel.)
FADE IN:
INT. KITCHEN – MORNING
Sunlight spills through the window, casting a warm glow over a bustling kitchen. The sound of a CLOCK TICKING fills the air, punctuating the chaos. LATIGO (40s, nurturing, slightly frazzled) stands at the counter, pouring cereal into bowls. The clinking of dishes and the faint hum of the coffee maker create a symphony of morning sounds.
LATIGO (V.O.)
Helping others is second nature to me. It’s like breathing. But in this house, it feels like I’m gasping for air.
She glances at the clock, her brow furrowing as the ticking grows louder in her ears.
CUT TO:
INT. LIVING ROOM – CONTINUOUS
THADA (4, a bundle of energy) is sprawled on the floor, surrounded by toys. He giggles as he knocks over a tower of blocks, the sound of wood clattering echoing in the room. LATIGO watches him, a mix of love and exasperation on her face, her hands resting on her hips.
LATIGO (V.O.)
Thada’s a whirlwind. He’s spoiled, yes, but he’s also my little tornado of joy.
Suddenly, POOM (40s, structured, visibly stressed) enters, coffee in hand, glancing at his watch with a furrowed brow. The aroma of coffee fills the air, but it does little to ease the tension.
POOM
(irritated, voice tight)
LATIGO! We’re going to be late! Why is he still in his pajamas?
LATIGO turns to him, trying to stay calm, but her voice trembles slightly.
LATIGO
I was just about to get him dressed.
THADA grins, holding up his pajama-clad legs, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
THADA
(excitedly)
I like my pajamas!
POOM sighs, rubbing his temples, the stress evident in his posture.
POOM
(slightly defeated)
This is why I plan everything. If we don’t stick to the schedule—
LATIGO
(interrupting, her voice rising)
POOM, he’s four!
The tension hangs in the air, thick and palpable, as LATIGO’s heart races.
CUT TO:
INT. HALLWAY – MOMENTS LATER
PUN (11, quiet and observant) stands by the door, backpack slung over one shoulder, tapping her foot impatiently. She glances at her watch, her expression a mix of anxiety and determination, her brow furrowing slightly.
PUN
(softly, but firm)
Can we hurry? I don’t want to be late again.
LATIGO (V.O.)
Pun is the opposite of Thada. She’s responsible, but her need for order often leaves her feeling overwhelmed.
LATIGO kneels beside THADA, looking him in the eye, her voice softening, her hands gently resting on his shoulders.
LATIGO
(earnestly)
Thada, can you help Mommy? We need to get ready for school.
THADA nods, his expression shifting from mischief to understanding, a hint of seriousness in his eyes.
LATIGO (V.O.)
In that moment, I realize that helping isn’t just about doing things for others. It’s about teaching them to help themselves.
FLASHBACK TO:
INT. SCHOOL CLASSROOM – DAY (A FEW DAYS EARLIER)
LATIGO is volunteering at Pun’s school, surrounded by colorful posters and the faint smell of crayons. She kneels beside a shy classmate, LUCY (10), who struggles to tie her shoelaces. LATIGO gently guides her hands, her voice warm and encouraging.
LATIGO
(softly)
You can do it, Lucy. Just like this.
LUCY looks up, her eyes brightening as she finally ties her shoelaces, a proud smile spreading across her face.
LUCY
(excitedly)
Yeah ,I did it!
LATIGO
(smiling, heartwarming)
See? You’re amazing!
The sound of laughter and chatter fills the classroom, creating a joyful atmosphere.
BACK TO PRESENT:
INT. LIVING ROOM – MOMENTS LATER
PUN takes charge, organizing her brother’s things with a sense of urgency, her quiet strength shining through. She moves with purpose, her brow furrowed in concentration.
PUN
(urgently, with a hint of authority)
Thada, we need to go!
LATIGO watches, pride swelling in her chest as she sees her children stepping up.
LATIGO (V.O.)
I look at my kids and feel a spark of hope. Maybe we can find a way to balance things out. Helping them really helps me, too.
CUT TO:
INT. KITCHEN – FINAL MOMENTS
The family finally gathers by the door, a mix of chaos and camaraderie. LATIGO takes a deep breath, feeling a sense of accomplishment wash over her, the warmth of the morning sun enveloping them.
LATIGO (V.O.)
Helping others is a dance, a balance of giving and receiving. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.
She recalls a moment from the previous week when she helped a neighbor carry groceries, feeling the warmth of connection and gratitude.
LATIGO (V.O.) (CONT’D)
Just like when I helped Mrs. Thompson with her groceries. The smile on her face reminded me that helping others fills my heart.
POOM, trying to lighten the mood, smirks, his shoulders relaxing slightly.
POOM
(cheerfully)
Okay, team. Let’s go!
THADA bounces on his toes, excitement radiating from him, his eyes wide with anticipation.
THADA
(excitedly)
Team!?
PUN, with a small smile, nods in agreement, her confidence shining through.
PUN
(supportively)
Yess ,Let’s go.
LATIGO looks at her children, her heart swelling with love and pride, the chaos of the morning fading into the background.
LATIGO
(smiling)
yeah.
They all step out the door, a united front against the chaos of the day ahead, the sound of their laughter echoing in the air.
FADE OUT.
—-
LATIGO BAYNE : The Nature of Helping: The script emphasizes that helping others is an intrinsic part of human nature. Latigo’s voiceover reflects her belief that helping is as natural as breathing, highlighting the importance of kindness and support in daily life.
