Original subtitles

[Upbeat '50s rock 'n' roll music]

[Sentimental instrumental music]

MAN #1 : Here comes the sugar man.

MAN #2: This makes the last payment on my car.

MAN #3: Yeah, but it's all worn out.

MAN #4: Where you been all this time, boy? MAN #5: Come on, get out.

Hartwell, Donegan.

[Vince whoops excitedly]

VINCE: Man, give me that fortune.

PAYMASTER: What will you do with all that money?

I'm gonna buy me a herd of chorus girls and make them dance on my bed.

BARTENDER: $95, $100...

$105, $106, $107, $108.

BARTENDER: Good week, Vince.

-You ready? -Yeah.

[Mellow instrumental music playing on jukebox]

Vince likes that kind of punishment. Someday he's gonna learn.

Okay, drinks are on me.

Now, that's the kind of athletic contest I appreciate.

VINCE: I'll get you next week. BARTENDER: You bet, Vince.

-Buy me a drink, cowboy? -Huh?

-You're buying, aren't you? -Sure. Jake, draw one for the lady.

-I'll take a shot, if you can afford it. -I can afford it. One shot.

I saw you here last week cashing your check.

-Yes, ma'am. -You got nice hair.

I get through work around 4:00.

Why, you two-bit little tramp.

Hey!

She didn't mean anything. I just bought a round for the house.

-Keep out of this. -She wasn't out of line.

-I told you to keep your mouth out of this. -Leave her alone.

Look, buster, if you want some teeth knocked out, just keep it up.

You scare me. Women-beaters always scare me.

Why don't you run along, sonny, before I muss up your hair?

[Mellow instrumental music continues playing on jukebox]

[Man grunting in pain]

Vince, he's had enough.

[Jukebox stops playing]

Hey, kid, you can hit.

Somebody call a doctor. This guy's hurt bad.

You've been found guilty by a jury of your peers...

of the crime of manslaughter.

You're hereby remanded to the custody of the Sheriff.

You'll be transported to the state penitentiary...

where you'll serve a term of not less than one...

nor more than 10 years of imprisonment.

Court dismissed.

Tough woodchuck, huh?

Well, that's what we're here for, to teach you hooligans.

It says here you killed a man with your bare hands.

We don't use hands here, we use guns.

I'll tell you another thing we use for cons who don't toe the mark.

The whip. Understand?

Yes.

-Sir. -Yes, sir.

I'm putting you in with Hunk Houghton, an old-timer.

-All right, that's all. -Thank you, sir.

When do I finish my processing?

No hurry. You got plenty of time.

Hang it up. Put it up where you got it.

Sure. Didn't know you were touchy about it.

I live here. I'm touchy about everything.

You're on my bunk.

This okay?

-My name's Vince Everett. -You know my name.

Glad to know you.

HUNK: You're not through processing? VINCE: Not yet.

HUNK: What about your haircut? VINCE: What about it?

You want a good one or a fresh-fish special?

-A fresh-fish-- -A fresh-fish special. They hack it up.

A good one will cost you three packs of cigarettes.

I haven't got three packs.

HUNK: You got any money? VINCE: No, spent it all on my lawyer.

I'll loan you three packs, you pay back four.

Kind of silly, saving up cigarettes like that.

You'll learn.

[Vince chuckles]

Okay, tell me about the cigarettes.

I run a business, sonny.

I'm what you might call one of the top cons in this stir.

I got representatives in the tailor shop, commissary, sick bay...

kitchen, and shoe shop, and they all work for me.

You want a good haircut, I fix it.

You want a good pair of shoes, a nice-fitting shirt, ask me.

Just like everything else, you gotta pay for it.

And this here is the coin of the realm.

-Where do you get the cigarettes? -Trade with guys who don't smoke.

You buy, steal, cheat, fight, just like you do for money outside.

VINCE: I'm broke. I'll never accumulate any cigarettes.

The state pays you 18 cents a day. That's a start.

-You play ball with me and I'll stake you. -That's real nice of you.

I can't have my cellmate walking around looking like a bum.

I got a reputation to live up to. Another thing is your job.

-You been assigned yet? -Not yet.

You'll probably draw the coal yard. New fish always do. It's hard and it's dirty.

Maybe I can get you out of it.

I can get you assigned to the print shop, where I am.

For how many packs?

Five cartons of cigarettes, and I'll loan them to you.

At what interest rate?

You're learning fast.

The interest rate won't be too high. You just do what I say when I say it.

That's the basis of my organization.

No, thanks.

-I'll take my chances. -Suit yourself.

-Thanks anyway, though. -It's no skin off my behind.

Hey, guard, how about a water call?

GUARD: One water call every two hours. You ought to know the rules now.

SlMPSON: In this heat? GUARD: Knock it off. Get back to work.

That new warden, the jerk.

Ever since he come here, this can ain't fit to live in.

SlMPSON: Hey, Hunk. HUNK: I hear you calling.

SlMPSON: What are we gonna do about conditions? I've had a bellyful.

I got less than a deuce to go. I'll sit here and suffer my little heart out.

SlMPSON: I'll something about it. PRlSONER #1 : What a lousy dump!

I'd better quiet those steers down.

[Prisoners chattering angrily]

SlMPSON: I'm gonna do something about it.

PRlSONER #1 : How about some cigarettes? PRlSONER #2: I don't know....

[Hunk singing sad country song]

SlMPSON: That's mighty pretty, Hunk. Give us another.

[Prisoners chattering loudly]

HUNK: Thanks a lot, neighbors.

HUNK: Appearing before you has given me a big hunk of pleasure.

I hope to be around picking and singing for you again real soon.

VINCE: Where did you learn to sing like that?

That used to be my trade, sonny buck.

I was singing country music before the words were invented.

I was on the stage with the best of them: Eddy Arnold, Roy Acuff.

Did you make good money?

I made two bills a week. I was swimming in gravy in those days.

Okay, get on with the sad part.

A woman and a bank did it.

She got used to bonded bourbon. I robbed the bank.

I thought you were making $200 a week.

Bookings got a little thin.

You mean, you made all that money just singing?

HUNK: Why not?

Mind if I horse around with it?

Don't break any strings.

VINCE: I can sing better than you.

Naturally.

I used to have an uncle that had one of these things.

I fooled around with it some.

Here's one of his songs.

[Vince singing slow romantic song]

[Vince continues singing]

[Prisoners banging vessels]

Like my singing?

[Prisoners chattering]

HUNK: You don't know one thing about the guitar.

The boarders liked it.

They're what you might call a captive audience.

HUNK: Here, let me show you a few chords.

[Hunk strumming guitar]

That's a C major chord. That's a big one.

Now try the G.

[Hunk sighs in exasperation]

You will never make a guitar player. You got no rhythm in your bones.

I never heard of anybody paying money to hear a guitar player.

Don't pay any attention to me.

I was only in the business for 10 years, that's all.

I read you, loud and clear.

Try it again.

Vince, take a water break.

Hey, screw, I'm gonna get some water.

We're having a prisoner's show.

A committee from the state legislature is coming to investigate.

The warden wants a smokescreen so he said to put on a show.

-He's all heart, that warden. -Who do you think will produce the show?

-You. -Who told you?

I got a spot for you in the show. I'll teach you a new tune.

I don't know.

What's the percentage in singing for a bunch of cons?

Experience, you lunkhead. That's the percentage.

-I'll consider it. -Fine, you do that.

While you're about it, consider the fact this show is going on TV coast-to-coast.

-You're kidding. -No. It's a show called Breadth ofa Nation.

-I guess they figure we got color. -I considered. I'm on.

What do you think is prettier, red or blue?

-Red or blue what? -Color for a convertible.

You guests of the state are gonna be mighty sorry...

this next boy is a short-termer, because he sure sings pretty.

Let's hear it for Vince Everett.

[Band playing a slow tune]

[Singing slow romantic song]

HUNK: Hurry up, fellas. I've got to count my fan mail.

Vince Everett.

Everett.

Hey, you birds, come here.

How'd you like to make five cartons apiece?

Five? Who do you want us to murder?

This is the easiest money you'll ever make.

All you got to do is keep your mouth shut.

I mean, about the mail.

I made a mistake and I gave the kid the best spot in the show.

If word gets out all this mail is for Vince Everett...

it makes me look bad. Follow?

I mean me, the professional singer.

I see.

If within a week the word is not around, you get the cigarettes.

Yeah, but it's Everett's mail. Who's gonna keep him quiet?

If I know the warden, Everett will never get it.

We'd be a natural together. Both ex-cons. The publicity would be sensational.

Look.

HUNK: You get out in six months. I follow you 12 months later.

What do you say, boy?

-You mean we sing together? -Together, alone. It makes no difference.

We hire a couple of other acts. We got our own show.

We play the circuit, and we roll.

I don't know anything about how to get bookings--

Let me worry about the business end.

HUNK: Here.

I've made a contract for us. We split everything right down the middle.

HUNK: Sit down here a minute.

Come on, boy. Sit down here.

Sign right there.

How come you're willing to give me 50% of your earnings?

I mean, like you said, you're the one who's got the experience and the name.

One simple reason: I got faith in your possibilities.

Sure, you're never gonna command the dough I can.

But with training, you'll do all right.

Besides, I need a young man to appeal to the kids.

I'm leveling with you, boy.

Alone, son, you'd be like a lamb in a pack of wolves.

Go ahead.

I wouldn't feed this garbage to a razorback hog.

I thought that investigating committee was gonna fix things up.

Investigating committee. What do those jerks see?

What the warden wants them to see.

Slop.

Slop. Slop!

Slop!

[Prisoners yelling angrily]

Come on, let's get back in our cell.

GUARD: Come on, back to your cell.

[Prisoners coughing]

WARDEN: All right.

One, two, three...

four, five.

I didn't have money enough to buy the grease, kid.

HUNK: The price was $300. I didn't have it. VINCE: I wish you did.

It's a lesson to remember: Without money you might as well be dead.

VINCE: Yeah.

That's all the sympathy you'll get.

Pity is a commodity in here. You buy and sell it just like anything else.

VINCE: What are you, some kind of an animal?

That's right, buddy.

I'm an animal in a jungle, and I got a motto:

"Do unto others as they would do unto you, only do it first."

That's right.

Do it first.

And it's just as bad on the outside. Worse.

Remember that.

I don't aim to forget it.

[Cheerful instrumental music]

Everett, you ready?

Drop in on us when you're in this part of the country.

Always glad to put you up for the night.

Just go away, screw. I wanna say goodbye to my friend.

See you in about 10 months.

HUNK: That's right. Together we'll knock them over.

HUNK: Don't forget the name of the joint. The Florita.

HUNK: I wrote a letter to Sam Brewster, the owner. He's an old buddy of mine.

HUNK: I'm positive he'll give you a job.

VINCE: Okay. See you. HUNK: Take it easy.

-Here's what the state owes you: $54. -Do I have to pay income tax on it?

Don't give me any sass, bub. And get out of here.

I'll try not to break down.

WARDEN: Wait a minute.

WARDEN: Here's something that belongs to you.

What's this?

WARDEN: Letters you got after that television show.

You're a real star, Everett.

-How come I didn't see these before? -Because I didn't want you to.

That's against the law, keeping mail from an inmate.

Have me arrested.

Now get out and don't come back.

You've been just like a father to me, warden.

Sir.

I'll send a woman up to make the bed directly.

Okay.

What do you want?

It's custom to tip a man when he brings you to your room.

Well I'm starting a new custom. No tip.

No law against trying.

MARIJANE: Dear Vince, I saw you on television, singing from the jail...

and I thought you looked real cool.

My name is Marijane Hamilton, and I'm 1 5 with blue eyes and brown hair.

My measurements are 33-25-36.

Do you think I should reduce?

If you ever come to Riverport, how about giving me a blast on the phone?

My number is Lockwood 4357....

Where's the nearest pawnshop?

Down the street to the right, couple of blocks.

What you gonna do, buy yourself a diamond ring?

No. I'm gonna buy a guitar and sing love songs to you.

[Band playing blues music]

-Hi, Jerry. -Hiya, Peggy.

-Shorty. -Hi, Peggy.

[Band continues playing]

How's your boy doing?

Large. He's on top. "Crying to the Stars" got 84 plays.

Yeah? I'm sick of it.

Watch your tongue, Shorty.

Tell me what you see.

About 5'4', weight 115, pretty well stacked.

-I'm glad you find me pleasing. -I don't find you nothing.

-Then why are you staring? -I'm interested in the jukebox.

-I'm sorry, I don't know about mechanics. -I don't either.

I'm a singer.

Indeed.

Look, I just saw you writing down some figures in your little book...

and I wondered what you were doing.

So don't get any fancy ideas about yourself.

I see.

-I'm afraid I misunderstood. -I'm afraid you did.

If you buy me a fresh drink, I'll tell you about the figures.

Buy your own drink.

Is yours the approved manner with ladies in the backwoods?

-Just tell me about the figures. -All right.

I'm an exploitation man in the record business.

I work for Mickey Alba. You've heard of him?

Word sometimes gets to the backwoods.

I plug his records with disc jockeys, jukeboxes, stores.

-Hello, Sam. -Hello, kid.

This is Sam Brewster, the cheerful owner.

Vince Everett. Did you get Hunk Houghton's letter?

Uh-huh. So you want a job?

-When do I go to work? -Whenever you want.

Tonight's as good as any.

It's up to you. Bring me a seltzer, will you?

Can those guys play with me when I sing?

-Sing? What do you mean, sing? -Sing. You said I could start tonight.

As bar boy. Mix setups, bring ice.

Hunk told me you'd give me a job singing.

SAM: What do you think I am, a mental case?

SAM: This place is no hobby, you know. VINCE: All I want is a chance, Mr. Brewster.

Look, kid, I'll save you some grief.

So Hunk taught you a couple of songs. Swell.

Be the life of the next party you go to.

But we don't have "opportunity night" here.

Do you want the job or don't you? Bar boy.

I'll see you around, honey.

Hunk Houghton. That name sounds familiar.

He's an old country music singer. I met him in the penitentiary.

[Mimicking Sam] Mix setups and bring ice.

Ladies and gentlemen...

I'm not a part of this show...

so just don't encourage me or pay me any mind at all.

The man that owns this place thinks I can't sing, so I gotta prove it to him.

You just go ahead at whatever you're doing. It won't take long.

Let's do a chorus of "Young and Beautiful."

[Vince singing romantic song]

[Patron laughs loudly]

[Patron continues to laugh loudly]

-Don't let me interrupt you, mister. -I won't.

[Continues to sing romantic song]

[People chattering]

[Patron laughs loudly]

[Imitates man laughing]

Hey! You forgot something.

-What? -Me.

That was quite a temper tantrum back there.

That creep had it coming.

Look, why don't you get me off the streets?

I'm bushed.

She'll do 80 on a straightaway.

[Band playing blues music]

Come on.

PEGGY: Do you always bust guitars on talking customers?

VINCE: I wasn't that bad.

Do you think so?

I didn't think you were very good, Vince.

-After listening to Mickey Alba all day-- -All right.

You tell me. Why didn't they listen to you?

I don't know. I'm no worse than a lot of them.

And no better.

Okay, you're used to the top talent.

VINCE: What are you wasting your time working me over for?

I like the way you swing a guitar.

I guess I did get a lot of wrist action into it, didn't I?

That's all she wrote.

My musical career started and ended with one song.

I don't know why.

Not until you've given yourself every chance.

But if they won't listen to me, I can't hold a gun on them.

Did you ever listen to yourself?

How can I listen to myself when I'm singing?

PEGGY: Make a tape recording.

PEGGY: Maybe when you hear yourself, you can discover what's wrong.

Sounds like a good idea. How much does it cost?

About $20 with a recording studio, I think.

-I haven't got a guitar. -I'll borrow one for you.

Can't hurt anything.

PEGGY: I'm sorry I'm late, Vince.

Just don't pay no attention to my nerves.

PEGGY: I brought you some background. VINCE: Yeah? Who's gonna pay them?

It's on the house. Have you picked a tune?

Yeah. Sit down, fellas.

Let's see if you know this one.

[Vince singing romantic song]

Okay, I'm good as I'll ever be.

ENGINEER: Stand by, please. Everett demonstration number one, take one.

VINCE: One, two, three.

[Band playing soft tune]

[Vince singing romantic song]

[Song continues on tape]

Man, that's awful.

Do I sound like that?

I guess I owe that guy at the Florita a couple of drinks.

It's a nice tune, though.

There's nothing wrong with the tune. It's the way I'm doing it.

How do you mean?

-I sound like a million other singers. -Then sing it differently.

-Like how? -Like how you feel it.

Put your own emotions into the song. Make it fit you.

"Make it fit you."

VINCE: The first thing is that guitar.

It's tough trying to find the chords. I just won't use it.

PEGGY: Nobody cares.

VINCE: Okay. Let's do it again. MAN: Okay.

PEGGY: Good.

VINCE: Burn me up this time. Let's see if we can get a little fire in it.

Try it again, sir.

ENGINEER: All right, stand by.

Everett demonstration Number 2, Take 1 .

[Band playing soft tune]

[Vince singing romantic rock 'n' roll song]

[Song continues on tape]

-What do you think? -I think it's wonderful, Vince.

-Good enough for a record? -It sure is.

VINCE: Then let's go ahead. PEGGY: With a record?

-Why not? How do you go about it? -It isn't that easy, Vince.

You have to go to a record company and sell them on the idea.

Let's do it. You know the business, and I want to cash in on some of that loot.

I don't know.

We might try Geneva Records.

What can they do? Send me back to the pen?

[Vince's rock 'n' roll song playing on tape]

-Thanks, Peg, for letting me hear it. -I think he has a very distinctive style.

Everybody's got a distinctive style these days.

I'd like to hear someone sing a song straight for a change.

But you know they're going for the new sounds, Jack.

I wish I could help you with it, Peg.

But you know our program this year: No experiments.

We're sticking with the established record sellers.

I guess we'll have to let MGM Records have it.

-I wish you luck. -Thanks anyway, Jack.

Let's get out of here.

JACK: I tell you what, Peg.

Why don't you leave the tape with me overnight?

I'll play it over the phone to D.L. in New York.

That's the best I can do for you.

That would be wonderful. Thank you.

I don't promise you anything.

-It's nice to meet you, sonny. -Likewise.

[Vince whistles admiringly]

Those are pretty sharp cufflinks.

I'm gonna have me some like that someday.

Mickey Alba made me a present of these when we gave him his eighth gold record.

Maybe someday you'll make me the same kind of present.

That would be nice.

PEGGY: Goodbye, Jack. JACK: Bye, Peg.

[Phone ringing]

Hello?

PEGGY: Hello, Vince, I'm afraid I have bad news.

You saw Lease?

He said the man in New York didn't like the tape.

What do we do now?

PEGGY: Keep on trying other labels, I guess.

Okay, you do that.

I'll meet you at that same restaurant about 7:00.

Okay. Goodbye.

Hi.

-You've kept me waiting 20 minutes. -I've been sleeping.

-You eat yet? -Certainly not.

Vince, don't you know the meaning of the word "courtesy"?

We don't use it much in the backwoods. Let's eat.

You might at least ask me what happened this afternoon.

-What happened this afternoon? -I sold your record, that's all.

Swell. I could tear into a good steak.

Would it hurt you just to say that you're happy about it?

It wouldn't be easy.

When the money starts rolling in, then I'll say I'm happy.

Who did you make the deal with?

-Deltona. -Never heard of them.

It's fairly new.

They're crazy about it, Vince. They say they're gonna push it real hard.

Great.

Let's celebrate.

We'll have a bottle of wine and a nice meal...

and then after dinner we'll drive out and see my father and mother.

-Didn't know you had a father and mother. -They didn't win me on a quiz show.

Do you like burgundy? Goes great with steak.

I like anything that goes with steak. I'm broke.

If it's all right with you, I'll pay for the meal.

You will if we eat.

VINCE: Hey, waitress.

It's a real crazy pad. What does your old man do for a living?

He's a professor at Bertrand College.

[Chattering]

Peggy.

-Hello, darling. -Hello, Daddy.

I'd like you to meet my friend, Vince Everett.

Welcome, young man.

This is Mr. Everett, the singer Peggy's been working with.

-How do you do? -Can I fix you a drink?

-No, thank you. Not right now. -Scotch? Bourbon?

-You got any beer? -Coming up.

We're pleased to see you, Mr. Everett. Peggy has told us about you.

She hasn't told me anything about you.

I hear you sold your first record today.

You seem to hear everything about me.

How long have you been in the music business?

VINCE: About a week. VAN ALDEN: I see.

Here you are, sir. And what did you do before that?

-Peggy didn't tell you? -No.

Mr. Everett was in the penitentiary.

Is that so? What was the rap?

One to ten. I did 14 months.

August, why don't you put on that new record by Stubby Rightmire?

I'm sure Mr. Everett is interested in jazz music. It's his profession.

Righto.

Will you excuse me? I have to fix the sandwiches.

That bomb kind of laid an egg, didn't it?

-What bomb? -About the penitentiary.

I'm afraid the shock value isn't worth very much.

[Jazz music playing on gramophone]

I think Stubby has gone overboard with those altered chords, don't you?

I agree. Brubeck and Desmond have gone just as far with dissonance as I care to go.

GUEST: Nonsense. Have you heard Lenny Tristano's latest recording?

He reached outer space.

WOMAN: Someday they'll make the cycle and get back to pure old Dixieland.

I say atonality is just a passing phase in jazz music.

What do you think, Mr. Everett?

Lady, I don't know what the hell you're talking about.

Vince.

You finally got your sensation. I hope you're satisfied.

Get off my back. I ain't in the mood.

You insulted my father, my mother, and me. It's just unforgivable.

What do you expect? I come out, have some beer.

Then some old broad's cornering me with a stupid question.

They were just trying to make conversation.

They can shove their conversation.

I'm not even sure they were talking English.

-I'll drive you back to your hotel. -I'll walk.

PEGGY: I think I'm gonna just hate you.

You ain't gonna hate me.

I ain't gonna let you hate me.

How dare you think such cheap tactics would work with me?

That ain't tactics, honey.

That's just the beast in me.

[Romantic instrumental music]

VINCE: Peggy.

Before we go in, there's something I'd better say.

About the other night, I guess I did get out of line a foot or two.

I got a pretty big mouth sometimes.

So if you'll just tell your old lady I said I'm....

Sorry?

Yeah. Come on.

[Sentimental instrumental music]

May I help you?

Today's the release date for "Don't Leave Me Now."

-Do you have it? -We sure do.

The kids in the store are all crazy about it. It's the greatest.

VINCE: I think I'll take about half a dozen. SALESGlRL: Yes, sir.

Did you hear that? They're crazy about it.

I'm gonna start off with a red one.

-A red what? -Convertible.

That'll be $6 plus tax.

May I see those records, please?

What's the matter, Peg?

"Don't Leave Me Now" by Mickey Alba? Geneva Record Company.

-I'm afraid I don't get it. -I do.

-Which booth can we use? -Any of them.

-Of all the low and filthy-- -Peggy, tell me what's going on.

[Mickey Alba singing Vince's rock 'n' roll song on record]

That lousy thief.

He stole my style, my arrangement, my everything.

Lease copied your tape and gave it to him.

What about my record?

You can forget it. It's gone.

-Miss.... -I'll see you later.

PEGGY: Vince. -I'll see you later, Peg.

PEGGY: Vince, where are you going?

You don't own that song. It's a published tune. Anyone can record it.

You turned it down. You said you didn't like it.

We didn't want to record it with an unknown.

What about my arrangement?

See a lawyer. You can't copyright an arrangement.

-You're a thieving rat! -Listen to me, sonny--

VINCE: Don't "sonny" me, you louse! Crawl back under your rock, you snake!

[Knocking at door]

Come in.

What did you do to him?

Nothing. Just slapped him a couple of times.

Isn't that dangerous?

He might have you arrested or something.

Why are you scared? It's not you.

I just don't want anything to happen to you, that's all.

I'm terribly sorry, Vince.

Hunk Houghton told me once, back in the pen:

"Watch out for the teeth, sonny. It's a jungle."

Yeah, he had it taped.

On the inside, they're Cub Scouts compared to Jack Lease.

If you make something, they might steal it from you.

But they'd be too honorable to go around saying they made it themselves.

Yeah, it was a pretty rotten thing.

Now that the crying is over, I wanna make another record.

PEGGY: The same thing might happen all over again.

You got no guts, Peggy.

So if they steal from you, there's only one thing to do:

start your own record company.

PEGGY: Your own company? VINCE: Certainly. What's the mystery?

We can find out the details from a lawyer or something.

You don't have to own a factory, I found that out.

VINCE: You contract for the pressings.

But you just don't go out and start a record company just like that.

VINCE: Why not? It's done every day. We're just as smart as those other birds.

Look, I'll make the decisions now.

I can't louse things up any worse than you did.

Distribution.

I know a little bit about it.

Sure you do. And exploitation, that's your racket.

We'll be partners. We'll split things up 60-40.

PEGGY: 60-40? VINCE: Well, I'm the artist, don't forget.

Are you with me?

Yeah.

Yeah, I guess I am.

PEGGY: Well, I'll quit my job tomorrow.

VINCE: My own record company. I can smell the money already.

This really calls for a celebration, doesn't it, Vince?

Do you know a lawyer?

Do you know how to dance?

We'll need a good one. A guy with an eye to a buck.

Do you know a lawyer?

Yeah, I know a lawyer. Mr. Shores.

-But he's a cold-blooded old fish. -Good. How's he fixed financially?

They say he's got the first dollar he ever earned.

Sounds like my man. Interested only in money.

Is that all you're interested in, Vince?

VINCE: What else?

Nothing.

When can we see this Mr. Shores?

PEGGY: Tonight, if you want to. VINCE: Good.

And incorporation papers will cost you $100.

We'll raise it. What else?

Registering your trademark, $25.

Mr. Shores, are you interested in show business?

Not in the slightest.

How would you like to be my manager?

I should want to first ascertain what your earning potential will be.

We're real kinfolks, Mr. Shores.

VINCE: Peg and I are gonna earn some money.

When we do, we'll make another record. Then we'll be in business.

You know something? I'm gonna make you rich.

SHORES: I'm already rich.

You'll be richer. Good night.

-Thank you, Mr. Shores. -You're welcome.

You got it? Okay, we're ready.

ENGINEER: Stand by, please. What's this new label of yours?

-Laurel Records. -Laurel number 101 , take one.

[Band playing rock 'n' roll music]

[Vince singing romantic rock 'n' roll song]

[Upbeat instrumental music]

PEGGY: Hi, Ted. TEDDY: Hi, darling.

What's this I hear about you quitting Alba to become a recording tycoon?

That's right. Here's my first offering.

"Treat Me Nice," Vince Everett. How is it?

Good enough to make me quit my job.

And you want me to give it a couple of shots?

If you only would, Teddy, it would mean so much to us.

Well, we'll try. See how the cookie crumbles.

-Thanks. -Peg, how long are you gonna be in town?

About a day or two.

Suppose we get together and split a herring?

-I'd like that. -Good.

[Vince's rock 'n' roll song playing on record]

"Folks, does your dog turn up his nose at the same old canned dog food...

"and dried preparations? Then why don't you try fresh meat?

"Cy's Pet Shop will deliver fresh, red, juicy horsemeat...

"wrapped in the size package you demand, right to your door.

"It only costs pennies more...

"but the treat for your dog is worth dollars in health and vigor.

"Remember, Cy's Pet Shop, telephone Mammoth 62480.

"That's Mammoth 62480."

Friends, I owe our listeners an apology.

So many calls have come in complaining...

they couldn't hear the Vince Everett record because of the commercial...

that we're going to play it again.

We're doing it for Betty, Mary Jo, Linda, Julie...

the gang down at Ray's Auto Upholstery, and....

The list is too long.

Apparently, everybody wants to hear this new platter.

So here he is, Vince Everett singing "Treat Me Nice"...

on the new Laurel label.

[Vince's rock 'n' roll song playing on record]

[Song continues]

Mr. Shores.

SHORES: I now have confidence in your earning potential, Mr. Everett.

Good deal, you're in.

10% of the record company and 5% of your earnings.

9% of the company, Mr. Shores.

That leaves me 51% and controlling interest.

SHORES: Agreed. VINCE: And 4% of my personal take.

-I have the papers already prepared. -With those figures?

I anticipated you, Mr. Everett.

How do you like that? He smelled the money from 400 miles away.

I think I got it made.

[Song continues]

PEGGY: Vince. Come on in.

I just checked the record shop, kid. We sold 425 copies.

PEGGY: That's great. VINCE: We got a hit.

Stick with me and, like they say, I'll put diamonds in your teeth.

PEGGY: That's nice.

How do you like the cufflinks? Dollar down, dollar a week.

What do you intend to do, use them for a landing strip?

It's the mark of a man's success.

You look sexy tonight.

You start the hammers, the pounding in my skull.

[Romantic instrumental music]

You must have read my mind when you wore this dress.

-What's on your little mind? -A celebration.

Tonight's the night for a real celebration.

-I like the idea. -We'll send up rockets.

But not with you.

Soft music, loud champagne, we'll charge it to Laurel Records....

Not with me?

-No, not tonight. -Who with?

-I have a date with Teddy Talbot. -That record spinner? You're kidding.

I'm not kidding. He's the one that made a hit for you.

But I've already got reservations at the local nightspot and everything.

Vince, you should have made reservations with me.

I still have a life of my own, you know.

I thought this was one night you wouldn't let me down.

I don't understand why you're so upset. You told me yourself.

I asked you if money was all you were interested in...

and your answer was...

and I quote, "What else?"

VINCE: That was different. PEGGY: Was it?

Vince, I will not be subject to your beck and call.

[Doorbell buzzes]

Excuse me.

-Hi, Ted. -Hi.

You do look scrumptious.

-Thank you. Be right with you. -Okay.

TEDDY: Hi, Vince. VINCE: What do you say?

TEDDY: Seeing much of our metropolis? VINCE: I've seen enough.

Did you thank the man for all the help he's given us?

-It's not necessary. -Thank the man, Vincent.

-Thank you. -You're welcome.

Good night, Vince.

"Good night, Vince."

[Gloomy jazz instrumental music]

After the success of his initial record...

Mr. Everett was enabled to command more advantageous contracts.

SHORES: I was told the adolescents found Mr. Everett's unique style of singing...

quite titillating.

Our expenses, however, increased with gross income.

I found transportation costs to be particularly high.

This, however, was a deductible item.

His choice of color was white.

[Upbeat jazz music playing on record]

SHORES: I doubted I'd convince the Internal Revenue Department...

that all of Mr. Everett's entertaining was for business purposes only.

On the other hand, my client felt very elated over his latest good fortune.

He'd been invited by the National Broadcasting Company...

to participate in a nationwide television extravaganza.

[Laury laughing]

Hiya, pard!

VINCE: How are you?

VINCE: I guess you heard the news about the TV show.

Yes, Mr. Shores told me.

Come on. I want to introduce you to a new member of the troupe.

Laury Jackson, this is Peggy Van Alden.

-Pleased to make your acquaintance. -How do you do?

Laury is a real cool little singer. I'm taking her to New York with me.

In that case, I don't think I'll go.

Were you planning to go? What for?

No reason I can think of now.

Got nothing to do with the record business?

Of course not.

Just like you said that night in Joplin. You and me, it's strictly business.

Let's keep it that way.

Let me know when you want to cut another record, pard.

Peggy.

[Vince stutters hesitatingly]

Okay, I'll see you. You gonna wish me luck?

PEGGY: Luck. HUNK: Where's my Vince boy?

Hi, son. Remember me?

VINCE: Hunk, you old son of a gun. How are you?

You must be Peggy, the gal that set up the record company with Vince.

PEGGY: How do you do?

I'm the bird who got Vince started, right?

VINCE: That's right. How'd you know about the record company?

I gotta keep up with the activities of my partner.

You've got more partners than a square dance.

Yes. I taught the boy plenty.

You'll find out just how well you taught him. Good night.

That's a pretty little thing.

HUNK: Boy, I'm raring to go.

How do you like it? Thirty cartons of cigarettes.

Cigarettes. You old stud. How about a drink?

Sing it to me in the key of G.

Folks, meet Hunk Houghton, the toughest old con in Cellblock 21 .

HUNK: Howdy. Pleased to meet you. VINCE: How about that drink now?

You can pour me a gourdful.

Uncle Matthew bonded bourbon. You know how old this bourbon is?

-How old? -Twelve years old.

Heavens above!

[Sighs]

That's like an angel dancing over the tip of your tongue.

It's seems a shame to even digest this bourbon.

Well, you've made it, boy. I've been reading about it. Feel proud of you.

-Yeah, I've been lucky so far. -Lucky?

Talent! I knew you had it the minute you opened your mouth.

-Now you're going into TV. -You know everything, don't you?

I feel good. What are your plans for me, boy?

I ain't exactly got any, Hunk.

You got no plans for Hunk? Your old partner?

-What do you want to do? -I want a spot in that TV show.

VINCE: You're talking crazy, Hunk. You better think it over.

I've been thinking about it for 18 years.

Yeah, I know, but....

Times have changed. Styles have changed. You might fall flat on your face, boy.

HUNK: I might get lucky like you, too.

I tried your style, just like you taught me. Boy, I laid a bomb.

But you ain't me.

Look, boy, all I need is one good break, and you can get it for me in that show.

I guess I owe you that much, but I don't know how it's gonna work out.

You let me worry about that.

Be a good boy.

Ladies and gentlemen, a little while back...

I had a kind of a vacation with a bunch of men...

in a big place away out yonder.

While I was there...

these men, kind of guests, you might say....

We'd get together, and horse around a little bit, and sing...

because we were having such a good time.

We always had a lot of fun with this one. The Jailhouse Rock.

[Band playing rock 'n' roll music]

[Vince singing upbeat rock 'n' roll song]

Thank you, Mr. Everett. Very good, Jack...

but a couple of your dancers missed their marks and we lost them.

All right, we'll go right into the hillbilly number.

-What's his name? Houseman? -Hunk Houghton.

ENGINEER #1 : Okay, Mr. Houghton.

ENGINEER #2: Okay, cut to four. Dolly in and hold.

[Band playing slow country music]

[Hunk singing sad country song]

-Where'd he come from? -Some pal of Everett's.

Say, what is this?

Don't blame me, Mr. Bardeman, it wasn't my idea.

He came as part of the Everett deal.

I'm sorry. Deal or no deal, he's off the show.

[Hunk continues singing]

Okay, Mr. Bardeman. Everett might bellyache.

Compared to the sponsor's pain, his would be nothing.

I wonder what he ever did for Everett.

ENGINEER #1 : Freddie, we're way over length.

We're gonna have to trim about four minutes. Tell you what.

We'll go right from the "Jailhouse Rock" to the film clip.

Cut the hillbilly number.

I get calls and wires from all over the world, but not little Peggy.

VINCE: No, not little Peg. I'll bet she didn't even tune me in tonight.

Okay, baby, you wait for me to call you.

Well, it'll be a cold day in.... Yeah, that's what it'll be.

VINCE: That ain't gonna help. HUNK: It always has.

-I warned you, but you wouldn't listen. -Don't rub it in.

And don't ask for pity. You taught me that.

-Don't worry about me. I'll get along. -How?

One flop ain't a man's whole life.

How'd you expect me to follow that three-ring circus you put on?

You couldn't have followed a juggler.

Naturally, I haven't got your talent.

That's right, you haven't. So what are you gonna do?

I don't see where that's any of your business.

Look, Hunk, I'm gonna be honest with you.

I'm not gonna put the brakes on my career now.

I don't want you as part of my troupe. You're not good enough.

It's been a long time, Hunk.

Music changes every six months. You gotta change with it.

I was in show business when you were in wet pants...

and I'll be in it when they can't remember your name.

Fine, but not with me.

-Aren't you forgetting something? -I was wondering when you'd bring it up.

Right down the middle, 50-50. It's a legal contract.

I put Mr. Shores on that contract. It's not worth the ink it took to write it.

You should have checked with a lawyer, dad.

I figured it was a contract in good faith more than how legal it was.

Is that what you figured, Hunk? Is that what you figured?

Even after the fan mail you knew about that I got in the can?

A contract is a contract.

Let's level.

Okay, you did me a favor.

You started me out in music, and then you tried to rob me.

But I ain't forgetting about the whipping that you tried to buy me out of.

So I'm gonna honor that contract...

provided I don't hear any more of that jazz about good faith.

I'm gonna honor it, Hunk. But not for no 50%.

-How much? -10%.

VINCE: Wonder if Shorty checked those airline reservations.

Will you find out for me?

-10%? -10%.

You know, a punk like you is liable to get lucky enough...

-to make $1 million a year. -That's just what I intend to do.

10% of $1 million is $100,000.

There you go. You were always good at arithmetic.

You're gonna have the most expensive flunky in show business.

SHORES: After the television show, the floodgates opened wide.

We had engagements in all the best-paying recreation centers in America.

Receipts doubled and redoubled.

Our tax situation became acute.

The record business was neglected during this phase, much to my regret.

However, my hands were tied.

There seemed to be emotional difficulties between the two principal stockholders.

The 40% participant refused to telephone the 60% partner.

It was an impasse, and highly unbusinesslike.

Finally, there was only one phase of the entertainment industry left...

so we went there.

We signed a non-exclusive contract with Climax Studios.

We welcome you, Vince, with all our hearts.

Now, you may find Hollywood to be a lonely town.

You're new here and good friends are hard to find...

just as in any other industry.

And I want you to know that you may feel free...

to regard my home as your own.

Come to me anytime--

[Intercom buzzes]

MAN: Yes? SECRETARY: The photographer's here.

Please send him in.

We want to get your publicity campaign started right away...

so we're having a studio photographer come in.

Mr. Everett, meet Miss Sherry Wilson, your leading lady.

How do you do?

-We thought some photographs together-- -Sure.

If you'd be kind to step in there. Thank you, we'll get a beautiful picture.

Now smile pretty.

That's fine. Now maybe an action shot, like you just signed your contract...

and you're shaking hands. All right? Smile pretty now. Thank you.

And now we have a little chore for you two young people.

We want you to be seen together.

I'm not doing a thing for the next couple of days and nights.

And, Sherry, remember that old cooperation, dear.

Of course. A job's a job.

You'll find I grow on you.

[Cheerful instrumental music]

[Cheerful instrumental music continues]

-Who's gonna see us here? -I got my eye on you every minute.

I thought we'd have lunch at Romanoff's.

You can only eat so much, you know.

GUIDE: Next on your left, across the street, you will see the mansion of Jack Benny.

-Oh, brother! -Sensational, huh?

It's a smash.

Don't bother seeing me to the door.

VINCE: I could make it.

I asked for nothing, I expected nothing, and I got nothing.

VINCE: What did you expect for nothing?

VINCE: Okay, everybody, let's get this show on the road. Let's go.

Mr. Drummond, do we have to do the love scene the very first shot?

We can't change the schedule now, Sherry.

I wanted to sort of work myself up to it. Making love to that rube won't be easy.

You'll be fine, dear. You're a trouper.

-Let's rehearse it! -On the set, everybody.

The situation is a simple one. Vince, you've just come home.

You've got this great news about your promotion...

but your wife is lying on the couch with a bad headache.

You're bursting with happiness as you come in...

but when you see she isn't well, you're concerned for her.

You kiss her tenderly and then tell her.

-Got it? -Got it.

DRUMMOND: Let's run through it.

Quiet on the set.

DRUMMOND: All right, Vince. Come in.

VINCE: Honey, guess what? I finally got the promotion.

VINCE: What's the matter?

I guess it's one of those miserable headaches again.

VINCE: Take any aspirin? SHERRY: Doesn't seem to do any good.

Let me rub your temples.

Good. Now kiss her.

Gently.

No, Vince, let's try it again.

Vince!

-How's your headache? -I'm coming all unglued.

Vince!

-Do you know how to float? -No.

Come on, I'll teach you. Come on.

[Romantic instrumental music]

There you go. Lay your head back.

Move your arms. Kick your feet.

There you go.

Okay, you're on your own.

[Both laughing]

VINCE: I wanna throw a party. SHERRY: For what?

To celebrate.

[Band playing upbeat rock 'n' roll music]

[Vince singing romantic rock 'n' roll song]

DIRECTOR: Cut!

Vince, when you sing, it's really gonesville.

VINCE: All for you, honey. GIRL: Bye.

I didn't see you applauding. You didn't like me?

You've come a long way since Cellblock 21 .

-Yeah, and it's been a tough row to hoe. -I don't know.

You hardly haven't touched the ground at all.

What do you mean by that crack?

You walked most of the way on other people.

You're just getting bitter, old buddy.

-Doll, where have you been? -Right in your little heart, doll.

You didn't say a thing about my outfit.

Flippy. Real flippy.

Peggy.

I thought you'd never come back, Peg.

[Romantic instrumental music]

Every time I see you, you're working a neck.

I just been waiting and wondering if you missed me like I missed you.

There was always the telephone. It would've been nice if you'd called.

I've been up to my ears in work, Peg. No fooling.

I understand.

The real reason I came was about the record company.

Isn't it about time you cut a few sides?

Records? ls that why you came back?

Nobody gets so big that they can ignore the records, Vince.

Not even you.

Sure, I'll make records.

You set up a date.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll see that my guests are happy.

How do you like our movie star, Peggy?

He has adapted very quickly.

There's not much oxygen up where he is, and a man gets light-headed.

Most actors, when they become stars, go through a brief period of being modest.

Not our boy. He became a heel overnight.

What are you doing here today, Peg?

-I guess I like punishment. -You don't have to take it, you know.

PEGGY: I'll learn. HUNK: Sure.

You're too smart a gal to let him cut you up.

Sure I am.

-Where's Mr. Everett? -He's over there.

Mr. Everett, may I speak to you a moment? I have startling news.

What's up? Did you hit uranium?

I've just received a most impressive proposition from Geneva Records.

Don't mention that clip joint to me.

Even though it involves $750,000 in capital gains?

-Mention it. -They want to buy Laurel Records.

In addition to sale price...

they want you under an exclusive contract for recordings.

For which they'll pay?

-7.5% of all the records you sell. -Man.

No artist has ever received an offer that big.

-What about Peggy? -I haven't discussed it with her.

Good. Let me talk to her.

HUNK: You're due at the studio in a half-hour to shoot the last scene.

Okay. You order up some booze so I can pour a few drinks for the crew.

Yes, Your Majesty.

These dogs aren't getting enough exercise. They're fat and lazy.

-Why don't you hunt them? -No, I got a better idea.

Why don't you take them for a little walk?

What's the matter?

My contract says nothing about walking dogs.

Contract? What contract?

Okay, I'll walk your dogs.

VINCE: You know, I ain't asking you to shine my shoes or nothing.

A man just takes so much, sonny. Keep that in mind.

GUEST: It was a wonderful party. Let's do it again. Bye, everyone.

-Thank you very much. -Goodbye.

-Take it easy. -Bye-bye.

Peggy?

Where have you been? Almost everybody's gone.

-I missed a streetcar. -Let me fix you a blast.

VINCE: You missed a swell party.

What is it that you wanted to talk about, Vince?

Oh, yeah. See you fellas later, huh?

It's about the record company, Peg.

HUNK: Mush, you coyotes!

HUNK: Who's buying the drinks?

VINCE: What have you been doing to these dogs?

I almost walked the feet off them.

I covered eight miles and four saloons.

-What are you trying to prove, dad? -Well, you said to exercise them.

I was afraid the Indians would cut us off at the pass.

VINCE: I don't see nothing funny.

Vince, what about Laurel Records? What is it?

We got an offer for the label, Peg. It's just too good to turn down.

-An offer? What kind of an offer? -To sell out. To Geneva Records.

Wait a minute. Wait till you hear the deal.

$750,000 of capital gain.

That's $225,000 in cold cash for you, after taxes.

-But, Vince, I don't want to sell out. -I'm afraid you got no choice, kid.

VINCE: I own-- PEGGY: I know. 60%.

That's the way the mop flops.

You'd think I was trying to rob you. After all, you're getting almost $250,000.

Dollars!

Is that the beginning and the end of the world for you?

Is there no emotion left in you but the lust for money?

Emotion? What emotion?

It's strictly business between you and me. You said that.

I don't care what I said.

We started this thing together.

We nursed it and brought it up, you and l.

It may be just a ledger page to you and Mr. Shores...

but to me, it's part of my life!

[Crying] Go ahead and sell it. I don't care what you do.

It's nothing but a record company.

It's not just the record company that's bothering her.

Tramping on me is one thing, sonny.

HUNK: Hurting a little girl like Peggy is another.

Now, don't you go getting no ideas, Hunk.

HUNK: There comes a time when you gotta take a hand in things, and it's now.

VINCE: Don't push me. HUNK: I'm gonna beat hell out of you.

VINCE: Don't try it. You're talking crazy, man.

HUNK: You know you got it coming, son. VINCE: I said don't try it!

VINCE: I don't know what's the matter with you.

Now stop it, Hunk! Just stop it.

Get up and fight, you yellow punk!

VINCE: I don't want to fight you, Hunk.

VINCE: I told you I don't wanna fight you, do you hear?

[Vince coughing]

There's your contract.

What's the matter?

Vince.

What's the matter?

[Vince coughing]

Somebody get an ambulance!

HUNK: Get an ambulance. Hurry up, get an ambulance!

[Siren wailing]

[Tense instrumental music]

Well, it was a close call.

The blow hit him in the larynx, or Adam's apple...

causing it to swell and cutting off his windpipe.

-We had to do a tracheotomy. -What's that?

Cut a hole in his windpipe down here, so that he could breathe.

Now, the big thing is his voice.

A blow like that can change the whole structure of the voice box.

-You mean he might not be able to sing? -That's right.

We'll have to wait a few days until the swelling goes down. We'll see.

You can visit him in about 24 hours, but please don't let him talk.

[Sad instrumental music]

[Sad instrumental music continues]

How do you feel?

Can I get you anything? Bottle of whisky or something?

I want you to know I feel terrible, son.

I can't hardly find the words to tell you how bad I do feel.

It's an awful thing I did.

If I could only take it back...

I'd cut off both my arms up to the elbow, and that's no lie.

I can't ask you to forgive me.

I just want you to know I don't think I'll ever forget it.

Hi.

You look fine.

We talked to the surgeon, and he thinks the operation was a success.

[Sentimental instrumental music]

Hunk told me what happened in the fight, and the fact that you wouldn't hit him.

I think it was wonderful, Vince.

It was an act of true love.

Yes, it was.

Don't be afraid to love, Vince, because I love you.

[Sentimental instrumental music continues]

How does it look, doc?

Looks just like it did last week, Mr. Everett. Completely healed.

Doesn't feel too good.

The injury is healed. The surgery was successful.

Your larynx looks as good as it ever did.

Whether your voice will sound like it did before...

can only be determined by trying it.

Sure. Try it.

Saying it is easy, but what if it's not there?

Now, look, Mr. Everett...

these morbid fancies of yours are doing you no good.

Unless you get hold of yourself...

you'll be a psychological mute, musically speaking.

Give it a try. You got to find out sometime.

I don't know, Peg.

Well, now is as good a time as any.

I got nobody to play for me.

PEGGY: Come on in, fellas.

[Band members chattering]

BAND MEMBER: Let's go to work.

Pretty big audience. Give a man stage fright.

Now, Vince....

Okay. But just with the piano.

-The rest of you guys-- -We'll wait in the other room.

VINCE: Doc, you better stay here, okay? DOCTOR: All right.

[Piano playing]

[Piano continues playing]

[Singing slow romantic song]

[Vince continues singing]