<script>
  <scene>
    <scene_description>LOVE.:</scene_description>
    <character>EVERYONE DESERVES</character>
    <dialogue>A GREAT LOVE STORY</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Written by Isaac Aptaker</scene_description>
    <character>&</character>
    <dialogue>Elizabeth Berger</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Based on the novel by Becky Albertalli Temple Hill Fox 2000 OVER BLACK The upbeat indie-electronic Passion Pit song Little Secrets, coming from computer speakers in •..</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>We move through this TEENAGEBOY'S BEDROOM,passing relics of a thoughtful suburban adolescent: A framed Elliott Smith RECORDCOVER. A half-eaten package of DOUBLE-STUFFEDOREOS. A pile of PROSPECTIVE STUDENTcollege brochures for big city schools: NYU, BU, USC. Stacks of CHUCKKLOSTERMAN BOOKS and NEWYORK MAGAZINES. So many HOODIES, strewn across pretty much every surface. Till we land on our hero, SIMON SPIER (17), boyishly handsome with vibrant blue eyes and a thick mop of unruly hair. He hurriedly gets ready for school as an old inkjet printer spits out his English essay. Simon sits down at his desk to staple his essay, when he's distracted by something outside the window: A SHIRTLESS GARDENERmowing the lawn. He's a twenty-something guy with the shoulders and the chest and the one-million abs glistening with just the right amount of sweat. Simon's eyes are locked on the hot gardener. He's clearly attracted to him. A KNOCKon the door. Simon spins around just as his father, JACK (47, loves dad jokes), pokes his head in:</scene_description>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, Nora made pancakes.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Cool. Be down soon.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>And by "soon" do you mean once you finish searching for pictures of Gigi Habib in lingerie?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>It's Hadid .</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Sorry, didn't realize she was your girlfriend.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Jack chortles as he closes the door. Clearly he has no idea Simon is gay. Because Simon is still in the closet.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(under his breath)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yup, you got me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon turns back to the window. But now Hot Gardener is blocked by his much older, much fatter, also shirtless COLLEAGUE. Simon leans over to get a glance at the hot one again. Way over. Just when he finally has a good view -- WHAM! The desk chair flies out from under him and he falls out of frame. Hard. As Passion Pit sings: "Let this be our little secret, no one needs to know we' re feeling ..• " CUT TO OUR TITLE:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON VS.</character>
    <dialogue>The song continues as our MAIN TITLES play</dialogue>
    <character>THE HOMOSAPIENS AGENDA</character>
    <dialogue>over</dialogue>
    <scene_description>sequence that is Simon's morning routine:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S KITCHEN - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Jack, Simon's mom, DENISE (40's, warm and thoughtful), and his sister, NORA (14, awkward and rnumbly) eat pancakes. Simon bounds through, pulling on his Jansport.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Simon, sit. Breakfast is--</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(teasing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Please mom, don't say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It's so cliche. You're better than that.</dialogue>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>I was going to say breakfast lowers LDL cholesterol and prevents fluctuating glucose levels which can lead to type two diabetes. Is that cliche?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(grinning)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Touche.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon grabs a PANCAKEfrom the stack and takes a large bite.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Nora, this is incredible.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He ruffles Nora's hair. She blushes and awkwardly mumbles:</scene_description>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, thanks. They're cornmeal with blackberry compote. No big deal.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon gives a bite to his GOLDEN RETRIEVER, BIEBER.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Here you go, Bieber. Most important meal of the day.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And Simon's gone.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. / EXT. SIMON'S OLD HONDA/ SIMON'S STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A pretty residential street in the suburbs of Atlanta. Simon jumps into his car, drives five houses down, and re- parks.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. NICK'S BASEMENT- CONTINUOUS</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon enters a cozy, finished basement - giant TV, mini fridge, soccer trophies. The kind of hangout room you wish you had in high school. NICK (17, easy jock good looks) snores on an futon. An old soccer game plays on the TV. Simon pulls off Nick's blanket and yanks him to his feet.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(waking up, startled)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ahh!</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Homeroom starts in eighteen minutes.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Shit. I fell asleep studying Roberto Baggio's moves in the '94 World Cup.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He glances at the TV. Brazil is celebrating their victory.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Damnit. Now I know who won.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon grab~ a clean TEE from a laundry basket, tosses it to Nick. Nick pulls it on, then realizes it reads "ATLANTA'S GREATEST DAD!" Nick shrugs, going with it.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Did you buy that for your dad?</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>He bought it for himself. It was at the peak of his mid-life crisis.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They head upstairs, where Nick hurriedly stuffs his SOCCER CLEATS and SHIN PADS inside a duffel.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>I was just having the craziest dream.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Nick, you have the "craziest dream" every night.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>I was in the bathroom putting on my contacts.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They head out the front door ...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. NICK'S HOUSE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>... where their other best friend, LEAH (17, sensitive, artsy, makes her own clothes) approaches from her house across the street. A perfectly choreographed morning routine.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>But I couldn't figure out which lens went in which eye--</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Wait for Leah.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah approaches, clocks Nick's dad shirt and bed head.</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>We never should've told you about ESPN Classic.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Sorry we can't all make our own clothes.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then, re: her outfit)</parenthetical>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Seriously though, that dress is really cool. You're gonna be very rich one day.</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Maybe we can collaborate on a clothing line, like H & Mand Beckham.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>And then Si will write a profile about us in some fancy magazine.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I love how successful we are in the pretend future.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah smiles. They all get into ••.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT, / EXT. SIMON'S HONDA/ SHADY CREEK STREETS - CONTINUOUS</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Leah rides shotgun. Nick leans forward from the backseat as Simon drives them to school.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>So Leah, last night I dreamt I was in the bathroom putting on my contacts and I couldn't figure out which lens went in which eye--</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Wait. I have something really important to tell you guys.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>I'm in the middle of--</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I pick Leah's thing. Leah, say your thing.</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Last night I was walking past Jackie Morgan's house and her parents were having sex in the hot tub.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon and Nick react with disgust.</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Oh. I was happy for them.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off their surprise)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What?</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>They've been married thirty years and they haven't lost their spark.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon smiles. He loves the way Leah sees the world.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Simon, remember when you dated Jackie?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon tenses up ever so slightly.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Vaguely, Ninth grade is a long time ago.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>You'd probably remember it better if you'd gotten past first base.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(forced)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yup, I tanked it.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>If it were me, I would've gotten all up in there and been like, "Hey Jackie, I just really wanna .•. "</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nick MOTORBOATS Leah's neck.</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Ahh! Get away from me.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You are such an idiot.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But Leah is grinning. Simon notices. He's pretty sure she has a crush on Nick. The gang pulls into, ..</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. WAFFLE HOUSE DRIVE THROUGH- CONTINUOUS</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>•.• and Leah leans over Simon to order.</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Three black iced coffees, please.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Wait, get one for Abby.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah looks irked at the mention of "Abby."</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Four black iced coffees, please.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Abby likes hers with cream- -</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Three black, one with cream.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>And sugar.</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>And sugar .</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(back to Ni ck, a nnoyed)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What are you, her barista?</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>We've been friends with her for two months. It's not that hard to remember "cream and sugar . "</dialogue>
    <scene_description>An uncomfortabl e silence . Simon cranks up the radio and the song carries us t o: INT . CREEKWOOD</scene_description>
    <character>HIGH SCHOOL- LOBBY - DAY</character>
    <dialogue>Gossip! Body spray! Ho:rmonesl Welcome t o Cr eekwood, a mid- sized public high school buzzing with studen t s gett i ng ready for class .</dialogue>
    <dialogue>Simon, Leah, and Ni ck e nter wi t h the ir coffees. ABBY (17) runs up to them . She is black, gorgeous, and rocking a very cool beat up leathe r jacket and boots.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, guys .</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, Abby .</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And jud ging by the dumb grin on his face , Ni ck is totally into her,</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>We got you a cof fe e.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Cream and · augar.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, you guys are the best . I am figura ti vely dying.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah for ces a smile . Simon notices, very aware of the t ension brewing in his friend group.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Have you guys looked at the Creeksecrets Turnblr today?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>No, what'd we miss?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As Abby takes out her phone and calls up the website:</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>At my old school, if there was a website just for school gossip, someone definitely would've gotten stabbed.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon laughs, then falls silent as he realizes:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, you're serious.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby hands her phone to Simon. It's displaying a Tumblr where students can anonymously post the most salacious happenings at Creekwood High School.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(reading)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Becca Peterson got caught giving Ryan O'Donovan a handjob in the pool. That's the real reason they had to drain it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon holds up the phone which displays a photo of an ANGRY JANITOR draining the CREEKWOODHIGH POOL. Everyone reacts, joyously disgusted.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON {</character>
    <dialogue>Janitor Rick deserves a raise.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>So Abby, last night I dreamt I put the wrong contacts in my eyes.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah and Simon GROAN. Abby is charmed.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>We're analyzing another dream? You're like the love child of Sigmund Freud and Christiano Renaldo.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(very proud)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Thank you.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(then, back to dream)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>So I can 't see anyth in g. I'm stumbling around the bathroom, crashing into everything. And then I wake up.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>That's it? That's what you've been trying to tell us all morni ng?</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>I'm pretty sure it means there's something I'm not seeing clearly. Something that's right in fron t of me. What do you guys think?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon and Leah look unco mfortab l e.</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>I dunno. Simon nervo usl y ta kes a sip INT. SPIER LIVING ROOM- NIGHT Simon, watch Videochatti ng in from her dorm on an iPad is Simon's</dialogue>
    <character>SI MON</character>
    <dialogue>No idea. of his Nora, and their parents eat Indian the end of ABC's The Ba che lorette. older</dialogue>
    <scene_description>sister ALICE (18) in a BARDCOLLEGESWEATSHIRT.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>There is no way they went into the fantasy suite just to give each other ufoot massages."</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Ser ious ly. How dumb do they think we are?</dialogue>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>I dunno. Cody is from Utah, which is super Mormon an d virgin - y.</dialogue>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <dialogue>Virginal.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You'd know.</dialogue>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <dialogue>So would you .</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon shuts up.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Even if they did more than foot massages, it doesn't mean they made love.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>All three kids GROAN.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Oh my god, you guys are so repressed--</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Don't therapize us. We're not your patients.</dialogue>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, I know. If you were my patients, you'd be way more well- adjusted.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Nice therapist burn, baby.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They fist bump.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Alice)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>How's our own little college bachelorette doing? Any special someones?</dialogue>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>Ew, no, I'm not talking about my life.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>We raised a vault, honey.</dialogue>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <parenthetical>(back to the show)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I think she's gonna pick Daniel F. He's the hottest one.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>The gay one?</dialogue>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <dialogue>Daniel's not gay.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Look at that haircut. The guy is a one-man Pride Parade.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(singing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It's fun to stay at the Y-M-C-A.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>This is Jack's sense of humor. Bad and out-of-touch, but not malicious. Still, Simon tenses up.</scene_description>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>Dad, stop.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>It's A ... •</dialogue>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>fun is so offensive.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>(then, quickly) even realize how pervasive With Daniel F! It's fun to your casual heterosexism is! stay at the Y-M-C-A, Alice continues to throw around words she's learned in her gender studies class. Denise and Nora laugh a little in spite of themselves. And no one notices Simon, wildly uncomfortable. The opening chords of ELLIOTT SMITH'S "WALTZ#2" kick in, taking us to ..•</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>••. where Simon listens to Elliott Smith as he scans the latest CREEKSECRETSTUMBLRgossip: a stuffed bra-gate, a Lacrosse player caught getting head under the bleachers. The usual. He's about to close the site when a POST catches his eye. It's a stock photo of a FERRIS WHEEL accompanied by a short entry. We hear SIMON'S VOICE in his head as he reads the text:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON ( V � 0 � )</character>
    <dialogue>Sometimes I feel like I'm stuck on a ferris wheel. One minute I'm on top of the world, the next I'm at rock bottom. Over and over, all day long. Because a lot about my life is great. But nobody knows I'm gay.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>It's signed with only the pseudonym: Blue. Simon sits back, stunned. There's another secretly gay kid at Creekwood? He considers for a beat, then navigates to Gmail and REGISTERS FOR A NEW E-MAIL ACCOUNT. Gmail asks for a USERNAME. Simon considers as Elliott Smith sings: "I'm doing just fine hour to hour, note to note." So, Simon signs up for hourtohour.notetonote@gmail.com. Available! He clicks back to the CREEKSECRETS ENTRY, and comments: I can relate. He ponders a pseudonym for himself, then notices a FRAMED PHOTO of his family in Paris's Luxembourg Park when he was a little boy. Something about this photo makes him decide to sign his comment Jacques. And then he adds the new e-mail address beneath his comment so "Blue" can reach him. Simon hesitates for a moment, then hits POST. Off his face, excited and terrified •.. CUT TO BLACK.:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon wakes up. Instantly picks up his phone and checks his "hourtohour" Grnail account: ONE NEWMESSAGE! He can't open the inbox fast enough. But it's just the stupid AUTOMATEDMESSAGE Gmail sends when you open an account. And thus begins Simon's EXCRUCIATING SCHOOL DAY waiting for Blue to respond.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - MATH CLASS - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON a NO CELL PHONES poster. Simon and his CLASS sit in agony as a MATH TEACHER desperately tries to get them excited about geometric proofs.</scene_description>
    <character>MATH TEACHER</character>
    <dialogue>•.• and we know this side here is</dialogue>
    <scene_description>twelve inches. So how do we determine the length of side A? He is met with a roomful of BORED, VAGUELY HOSTILE STARES. Finally, Simon raises his hand.</scene_description>
    <character>MATH TEACHER</character>
    <dialogue>Yes! Simon!</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>May I go to the bathroom?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The Math Teacher deflates, silently wishing he became an engineer.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - BOYS' ROOM - CONTINUOUS</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon locks himself in a stall. Takes out his phone. Still NO NEW MESSAGES.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - CAFETERIA - LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon sits at lunch with Nick, Abby, Leah and a couple of Nick's soccer friends, BRAM(handsome, with olive skin and dark brown eyes) and GARRETT (affable jock). Simon compulsively hits refresh on his phone, but he has no signal,</scene_description>
    <character>GARRETT</character>
    <dialogue>Did you guys see that Creeksecrets post last night with the ferris wheel picture? Who do you think is gay?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>This gets Simon's attention. He looks up from his phone, tries to keep his expression neutral.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(shrugs)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Who cares? It's 2016.</dialogue>
    <character>GARRETT</character>
    <parenthetical>(immediately defensive)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I don't care. I was just curious. I love gay people. My dad's assistant is gay!</dialogue>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <parenthetical>(fake impressed)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Wow, your dad's assistant? How have you not gotten a GLAAD award yet?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Everyone LAUGHS, including Simon. He takes in Bram, gets a little lost in his dark brown eyes. Bram catches Simon staring at him and misunderstands:</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>You want some of my fries?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon blushes, but quickly covers:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Urn, yeah, Thanks.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Clearly Simon's got a crush.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - HALLWAY- LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon refreshes his e-mail while hurrying to his next class. And thus, he CRASHES right into the Vice Principal, MR. WORTH (30's). He's one of those administrators who desperately wants to be friends with his students.</scene_description>
    <character>MR. WORTH</character>
    <dialogue>Simon, buddy, you know there's no texting in the halls.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I know, I just--</dialogue>
    <character>MR. WORTH</character>
    <dialogue>You know I love you.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You do?</dialogue>
    <character>MR, WORTH</character>
    <dialogue>But a rule's a rule. I have to confiscate the phone. You can pick it up after play rehearsal, 'kay?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon reluctantly hands over his phone as we PRELAP Oliver's You've Got to Pick a Pocket or Two. INT, CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - AUDITORIUM - AFTER SCHOOL Simon, Abby, and the CAST OF OLIVER perform a very sloppy run- through. The harmonies are off, the choreography is a mess, and actors keep crashing into each other. Simon plays one of the Orphans. Abby is the Artful Dodger. MARTIN (17, oddball class clown in a punt-shirt that says "IRONY, THE OPPOSITE OF WRINKLY") is Fagin.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>You've got to pick a pocket or two, boooooys. You've got to pick a pocket or twoooooooo!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>MS, ALBRIGHT (30's, no-bullshit drama teacher) and CAL (17, indie-dreamy stage manager) give a weak round of applause.</scene_description>
    <character>MS. ALBRIGHT</character>
    <dialogue>Okay, that was .•. help me, Cal.</dialogue>
    <character>CAL</character>
    <dialogue>That was a start.</dialogue>
    <character>MS. ALBRIGHT</character>
    <dialogue>That was a start!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon leans over and anxiously whispers to Abby:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>What time is it?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Ten minutes later than the last time you asked me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>TAYLOR, the type-A blonde Senior girl playing Oliver, raises her hand.</scene_description>
    <character>MS, ALBRIGHT</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, Taylor?</dialogue>
    <character>TAYLOR</character>
    <dialogue>Um, I was pretty singularly focused on being Oliver but I could still tell that sucked. Jake and Samantha were practically dry humping the entire time.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANGLE ON two entwined TEENS playing Fagin's Boys. They have their hands in each other's back pockets.</scene_description>
    <character>MS. ALBRIGHT</character>
    <dialogue>Point taken. Let's try and put aside our steamy personal lives when we're in character, shall we?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Jake and Samantha reluctantly remove their hands from each other's pockets.</scene_description>
    <character>CAL</character>
    <dialogue>From the top, people!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Everyone GRUMBLESas they take their places.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>What time is it now?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>HIGH SCHOOL- MR. WORTH'S OFFICE - DAY</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon enters Mr. Worth's office, dying to get his phone back,</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Hi, I'm here for my phone.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mr. Worth reaches into his desk, takes out Simon's phone.</scene_description>
    <character>MR. WORTH</character>
    <dialogue>I hope you enjoyed your time being "disconnected." We depend so much on our devices these days.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(dying)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yup. Totally.</dialogue>
    <character>MR. WORTH</character>
    <dialogue>I know I can't go a few hours without checking my Insta or playing a little Angry Birds.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon is going crazy.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Mhmm. It's a struggle.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Finally, Mr. Worth hands over the phone. Simon checks the little mail icon: one new e-mail! INT, / EXT, SIMON'S HONDA/ CREEKWOOD</scene_description>
    <character>PARKING LOT - DAY</character>
    <dialogue>Simon gets in his car, takes out his phone, and opens thee- mail. It's from bluegreen118@gmail.com. As Simon reads, he imagines •••</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TEEN BOY'S BEDROOM- DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A suburban bedroom with distinctive NAVYBLUE WALLS. It belongs to a MYSTERIOUSTEEN BOY writing an e-mail to Simon. He is shot from behind so we never see his face. This is BLUE as Simon imagines him. He has a warm, intelligent voice.</scene_description>
    <character>BLUE (V .0.)</character>
    <dialogue>You can relate? I guess that means you're either gay or you're stuck on a ferris wheel. And I have a Google alert for carnival mishaps, so I know it's not the latter. When did you know? And have you told anyone? Blue.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>BACK TO REALITY:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. /EXT.SIMON'S HONDA/ CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <character>PARKING LOT - DAY</character>
    <dialogue>Simon stares at the e-mail, totally exhilarated till-- HONK, HONK! He realizes someone is waiting for his spot.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Sorry! I'm leaving.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S BEDROOM- AFTERNOON</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon rushes in and opens his laptop to respond to Blue. We hear his voice as he types:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>No, Blue. I haven't told anyone. And honestly, I can't even really explain why. I know deep down my family would be fine with it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SIMON'S HOUSE - DAY (FLASHBACK)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Denise and Jack struggle mightily to stake a HILLARY sign in their yard. They give up and lean it against a bush.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Both my parents voted for Hillary.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CHURCH - DAY (FLASHBACK)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon and his family sit in a pew during Sunday mass. They're hot and bored.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O,)</character>
    <dialogue>And we only go to church when my grandma comes to town.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>REVEAL their GRANDMA, listening to the sermon, rapt. Denise nudges Jack awake.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - CAFETERIA - DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon gets lunch with his friends. A couple of JOCKS do that BLOW JOB GESTURE at him. Leah flips them off.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>I'm sure a few dicks from school would give me hell because half of Shady Creek is still stuck in the 1950's. But my friends would be fine with it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>BACK TO REALITY:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S BEDROOM- AFTERNOON</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon continues writing the e-mail.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>So I guess I'll ruminate on what's stopping me and get back to you on it. Ruminate. Pretty good word, huh?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat, then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>As for how I knew I was gay, it was a bunch of little things .••</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S BEDROOM- NIGHT (FLASHBACK)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>TWEEN SIMON (12) sleeps soundly in bed.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V,O.)</character>
    <dialogue>... Like this weird dream I had about Daniel Radcliffe.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Tween Simon wakes up and looks at a Harry Potter poster on his wall, surprised.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S BEDROOM</stage_direction>
    <character>- ANOTHERNIGHT (FLASHBACK)</character>
    <dialogue>SIMON (V,O.)</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And then proceeded to have every night for a month. An exasperated Tween Simon takes down the Harry Potter poster and stuffs it in the trash.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. PASSION PIT CONCERT- NIGHT (FLASHBACK)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Tween Simon and Alice bop their heads as PASSION PIT sings.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V,O,)</character>
    <dialogue>Or how I was obsessed with Passion Pit in middle school •••</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He stares at the lead singer, MICHAEL ANGELAKOS,transfixed by his scruffy good looks.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V,O,)</character>
    <dialogue>And then I realized it wasn't really about the music.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>INT, MIDDLE SCHOOLDANCE- DAY (FLASHBACK) Tween Simon awkwardly slow dances with his pretty, EXTREMELY DEVELOPED7TH GRADE GIRLFRIEND. SIMON (V .o.) And then there was my first girlfriend. SIMON'S FIRST GIRLFRIEND leans in and whispers to Simon:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON'S FIRST GIRLFRIEND</character>
    <dialogue>I think I'm falling in love with you.</dialogue>
    <character>TWEENSIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Wow. Uh, I'll be right back.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Tween Simon darts out of the gymnasiwn, leaving his confused girlfriend staring after him.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MIDDLE SCHOOLBATHROOM</stage_direction>
    <character>- CONTINUOUS(FLASHBACK)</character>
    <dialogue>Tween Simon crouches on a toilet so no one can see his feet, and texts his mom: Come pick me up. Kids are drinking alcohol.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON (V. 0. )</character>
    <dialogue>It wasn't my proudest moment.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>BACK TO REALITY:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S BEDROOM- AFTERNOON</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon finishes up his e-mail to Blue.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V. 0. )</character>
    <dialogue>How about you? How did you know?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon considers how to sign his e-mail.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V .0.)</character>
    <dialogue>Wa:anly, Jacques.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(ech)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Fondly, Jacques.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(nope)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Jacques.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Satisfied, Simon hits SEND.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S KITCHEN - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Nora serves Simon, Denise, and Jack STUFFED PEPPERS that would be right at home in a Michelin star restaurant.</scene_description>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>So after we finish installing all the shower tiles, she decides the black and whi te checks are "too black and white."</dialogue>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <parenthetical>(timid)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>These are peppers stuffed with barl ey and cremini mushrooms, dusted with parm esan breadcrumbs.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <parenthetical>(big bite, not discerning)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Tastes great, Nor.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then, back into it)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>So now she wants marbl e. It's not even the mast er bath?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon's PHONE BUZZES: one new e-mail. He jumps up without th inking . Then:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Great story, dad. We're out of Sprite. There's a bottle in the basement, so ...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And he ' s gone •</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S BASEMENT - MOMENTSLATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon stan ds in front of a storage shelf holding a two liter of Spri te and reading an e-mail from Blue.</scene_description>
    <character>BLUE (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Jacqu e s, don't worr y . If your proudest moment happened in middle school that woul d be pretty sad.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>For me, I re a lized I liked guys watching Game o f Thr one s.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S BEDROOM- LATER THAT NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon is sprawl e d in front of his lap top wat chi ng a TV SHOW.</scene_description>
    <character>BLUE (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>My friends were all holding their breaths waiting to see the Dragon Princess's boobs. I was crushing hard on Jon Snow.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>REVEAL Simon is watching an early Game of Thrones episode. Kit Harrington's hair looks super dreamy. Simon gets it.</scene_description>
    <character>BLUE (V,O, )</character>
    <dialogue>Wow. I've n ever to ld that to anyo ne befo re .</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simo n smile s, touch ed th at Blu e h as conf ided in him. He c licks over to Gmail and repl ies to Bl ue:</scene_description>
    <character>S IMON ( V. 0 � )</character>
    <dialogue>Well , I've neve r to l d anyone about my Daniel Radcliffe phase, so now we'r e ev en. And f or the recor d, I think th is J on Snow guy is an excel lent choice fo r your s e xual awake ni ng. I wish we 'd sta rt ed e - mailing a mont h ago, I tot ally would' v e been him fo r Hall oween. But peop l e probably woul d ' v e j us t though t I was th e singer Lorde . Who did you dre ss up as?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon hit s SEND. INT . CREEKWOOD</scene_description>
    <character>HIGH SCHOOL - HALLS - THE NEXT MORNIN</character>
    <dialogue>G</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simo n, Ni c k, Abby, and Le ah fight th eir way th r ough the crush of k ids headi ng to homeroom . Simo n t ake s in the HUNDREDSOF MALE CREEKWOOD STUDENTS . QUICK CUTS of FACE a fter FACE aft er FACE, fas te r and fa st er and faste r . Lit era ll y any one of th em co u l d be Blu e . They p ass a CUTE DORKYGUY pu tti ng b ooks in his loc ker . Simon not i ces t h e guy has a Game of Thro nes poster taped in si de i t . Just as Simon is wondering if he coul d be Bl ue , he pa sses anoth er guy wearing a Game of Thrones t -shir t . Hope l es s. Simon goes to ta ke out hi s ph one when he sp ots Mr. Wort h app roac hi ng. He pocke ts the pho ne, spli ts away fro m hi s frie nd s , and enter s: I NT. CREEKWOOD</scene_description>
    <character>HIGH SCHOOL - LI BRARY - DAY</character>
    <dialogue>He sits down at a computer and ea ger ly logs into hi s "no t etonote " Gmail , wher e he fin ds a new mes sage from Blue.</dialogue>
    <character>BLUE (V . 0,)</character>
    <dialogue>I di dn 't dr ess up this yea r. For me, Hallo ween is r eal ly a ll about the Reese's .</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon scrolls down to find a photo attached to the e-mail. It's LORDE'S HEAD Photoshopped onto JON SNOW'S SHIRTLESS BODY. Simon laughs.</scene_description>
    <character>BLUE (V ,0,)</character>
    <dialogue>Here's a mock-up of your Halloween costume for next year. You're welcome. Blue.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon sits with a DAZED SMILE. The Librarian passes by •••</scene_description>
    <character>LIBRARIAN</character>
    <dialogue>You certainly look happy today, Mr. Spier.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon immediately stops smiling. Once the Librarian is far enough away, he Google images a photo of a HUGE PILE OF REESE'S CUPS and drags it into the e-mail. The BELL rings.</scene_description>
    <character>LIBRARIAN</character>
    <dialogue>Everybody get to homeroom!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon hurriedly writes:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Reese's are better than sex.</dialogue>
    <character>LIBRARIAN</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Simon)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>That means you, Smiley.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon sends the e-mail and hurries off to class. INT, CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - CAFETERIA - DAY Simon tears into a pack of REESE'S CUPS at lunch with his friends. Bram sits down with his tray.</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <parenthetical>(re: Reese's)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Man, I love those.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon looks from his Reese's to Bram. He's stunned. Could his totally unattainable soccer crush be Blue?</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>So, good news. My aunt's boyfriend just took off with her car and all her jewelry--</dialogue>
    <character>GARRETT</character>
    <dialogue>Dude, that's terrible!</dialogue>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>I know. But this is the third time it's happened. She has really bad taste in guys. My mom is going down to Orlando to deal with it which means I get to throw a party.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He flashes them all a shy smile. Simon smiles back, total ly charmed by Bram's enthusiasm.</scene_description>
    <character>GARRETT</character>
    <dialogue>Aw, sweetness! Thank you Bram's stupid aunt! Let's get a mini keg. No, two mini kegs.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Why don't we just get a regular keg?</dialogue>
    <character>GARRETT</character>
    <dialogue>Yes! And a vodka luge!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As Garrett continues to ramble on excitedly, Simon can't help but feel like Bram's eyes are lingering on him. Off Simon, unsure ...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - CLASSROOM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon sits in class, sneakily reading a new Blue e-mail on his phone. He now imagines Bram's voice narrating . BRAM (V .o,) Really, Jacques? Reese's are better than sex? I'm not speaking from experience, but I sincerely hope you're wrong. CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. BRAM'S BEDROOM - DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>We're in the same, blue-walled bedroom, but now it belongs to Bram. Because Blue is now Bram in Simon's mind. A shirtless Bram speaks directly to camera. He licks some melted chocolate off his fingers.</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>Although if sex is chocolatey, and salty, and sweet ...</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(signature shy smile)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I guess tha t wouldn't be too bad ...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>BACK TO REALITY:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <character>HIGH SCHOOL- CLASS ROOM-</character>
    <dialogue>Simon shifts INT. CREEKWOOD</dialogue>
    <character>DAY</character>
    <dialogue>in his</dialogue>
    <scene_description>HIGH SCHOOL- AUDITORIUM- DAY The Oliver cast build sets and hang lights. Taylor approaches Simon and Abby who are painting a backdrop of London.</scene_description>
    <character>TAYLOR</character>
    <dialogue>Do you guys think I should cut my hair short to play Oliver?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Aren't you wearing a hat the entire time?</dialogue>
    <character>TAYLOR</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, but I read that when Daniel Day Lewis played that paralyzed guy in My Left Foot he made the crew carry him around and feed him with a little spoon.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby and Simon stare at Taylor. After a moment:</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>In that case, yeah. You should cut your hair.</dialogue>
    <character>TAYLOR</character>
    <parenthetical>(instantly panicked)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Really? My hair is kind of my thing.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(has to get away from her)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm gonna get some more paint.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>HIGH SCHOOL- DRAMASUPPLY CLOSET - DAY Simon rummages through the shelves looking for the right can of paint.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN (O,S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Simon?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon whirls around, startled. Martin (our pun-shirted Fagin) stands behind him with a strange, nervous look.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Jesus, Martin. You scared me. What's up?</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>I used the computer in the library right after you.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(confused)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Okay?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin shuffles awkwardly. Then:</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>When I went to Gmail, it pulled up your account. And I read some of your e-mails. I shouldn't have done it, but they were all just like, right there.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at Martin, his mind racing as he realizes Martin now knows he's gay.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>It'll probably interest you to know my brother is gay.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon struggles to keep his voice from trembling.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>No, Martin. That does not interest me to know.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon takes his paint and turns to go.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Simon, calm down. I'm not going to show anyone.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stops, turns back around to face Martin.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Show anyone what?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin can't meet Simon's eyes. Simon starts to panic.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Did you print my e-mails or something?</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>No, I ... took a screenshot.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Why the hell would you take a screenshot of my e-mails?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin does his awkward shuffle again.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>You and Abby Suso are like, best friends, right?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>We're friends, we're not best friends. What does that have to do with anything?</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>I need you to ... help me talk to her, And to, y'know, hang out with her.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>What? Why would I help you do that?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin stares at Simon, not wanting to say it.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Oh my god. Are you blackmailing me?</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Don't be so dramatic. It's not like that. I just like her and I need your help.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>And what if I say no? You'll tell the whole school I'm gay? You'll leak my e-mails? Post them on Creeksecrets?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin doesn't respond. Simon realizes that's exactly what Martin will do. Finally, Martin speaks.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>I think we're in a position to help each other out is all. Just think about it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin walks out, leaving a spiraling Simon in his wake.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. /EXT.SIMON'S CAR/ SHADYCREEK STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon drives home in a daze. He blows a stop sign and doesn't even notice till someone HONKSat him. Simon gestures a vacant apology.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Family dinner. Simon stares off into space as Jack, Denise, and Nora laugh and swap stories. Their voices sound A MILLION MILES AWAY.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SIMON'S NEIGHBORHOOD - NIGHT</stage_direction>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>SIMON WALKS BIEBER. SUDDENLY, HE STARTS TO SPRINT.</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>He runs until his lungs are burning. He falls to his knees, gasping for air. Bieber licks his face, oblivious.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon's ALARM goes off. He wakes with a start. And then, yesterday's events come rushing back to him.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Shit.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon checks his phone: a new e-mail from Blue. He begins to read it ...</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Jacques, I have to get something off my chest. The other day you asked me who I was for Halloween and I told you I didn't dress up. I lied.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon straightens up, worried about where this is going.</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM (V,O.)</character>
    <dialogue>The truth is, I didn't want you to know my costume. If you did, you could just click through Facebook photos and figure out who I am.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - HALLWAY- DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon, Leah, Nick and Abby walk down the hall in SLOW MO.</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM (V.O,)</character>
    <dialogue>Right now these e-mails feel like this totally safe place where I can tell you anything. And they won't feel that way anymore if we know each other's identities. I'm just not ready.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They pass Bram and his SOCCER BUDDIES. Simon and Bram stare straight ahead, ignoring each other.</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM {V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Do you ever feel locked in your own body? Like there are things you are absolutely dying to do and say ...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Suddenly, Bram turns around and begins to run towards Simon. But before he reaches him he stops, FROZEN. BRAM (V .o.) But for some reason, you just can't? BACK TO REALITY:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon sighs. He imagines ••• CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH - DRAMACLOSET - DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>We're back in the moment where Martin blackmailed Simon.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>It'll probably interest you to know, my brother is gay.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at Martin for a beat. Then, Simon does what he's dying to do: he PUNCHES Martin right in the face. For a brief moment, he is triumphant. But then, his fist moves backwards as if in REWIND. Martin gets up, rights himself. And Simon says what he actually said:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>No Martin. That does not interest me to know.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>BACK TO REALITY:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon writes back to Blue.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON ( V . 0 . )</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, Blue. I know just what you mean.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon hits SEND.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>HIGH SCHOOL- LOCKERS - DAY Simon watches from afar as Martin struggles to close his locker which is overflowing with old gym clothes and empty soda cans. Martin pulls out a very questionable sandwich, considers eating it. Simon approaches.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>If you want me to help you get with Abby, you cannot eat that.</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>So you're going to help me?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Yes.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin instantly warms up, as if he wasn't blackmailing Simon in a supply closet just yesterday.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>This is awesome! I really think Abby and I are meant to be.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(dryly)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Really? Do you?</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Not everything is about looks, Simon.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>So you're banking on your great, blackmail-y personality getting the job done?</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>That's hurtful.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Don't care. Do you want to come with us to Bram's party this weekend?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin lights up.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>I love it, It's so simple, I bet that's why they call you Simple Simon.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>No one calls me that, Martin.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon turns to leave. Martin goes to take a bite of his old sandwich.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Don't eat that sandwich, Martin.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. NICK'S BASEMENT- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon and his friends are sprawled out, snacking on chips and drinking sodas pre-Bram's party.</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>When should we head to Bram's?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Let's give it an hour. We don't want to get there when it's just Bram and the soccer dweebs.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Hey! I'm one of the soccer dweebs.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, I know. If I have to listen to you brag about your epic bicycle kick one more time--</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nick throws a pillow at Abby and she shrieks.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Do you even know what a bicycle kick is? It's insanely difficult to execute!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon clocks Leah's discomfort as Nick and Abby flirt.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Leah, let's go make those frozen pizzas.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. NICK'S KITCHEN - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon and Leah pull Trader Joe's pizzas out of the oven,</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Excited for the party?</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>You mean am I excited to stand amongst our sweaty peers, be too self-conscious to dance and pretend to like the taste of beer?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat, obvious lying)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Totally!</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Why would you be self-conscious? You're like the coolest person in our school.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah snorts like, "as if."</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I'm serious. Look at you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon drags her over to a wall mirror and they both take in her stylish, homemade outfit.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You're like, effortlessly cool.</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>I'm pretty sure you're the only person that feels that way.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Well, it's true. Ever since you made yourself that macaroni headband in kindergarten, you've been a trendsetter.</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Also known as the day you had to go to the hospital.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Yup. Nick told me if I shoved the macaroni deep enough in my nose a mac and cheese tree would grow out of my head. He was very convincing.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah grins. After a moment:</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>I'm sorry I've been weird lately.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I get it. It's been just you, me, and Nick for so long. And now Abby's here.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(gently, for Leah)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It's different.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah stares at him. It seems like she wants to say more. But the moment is interrupted by the DOORBELL,</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. NICK'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon and Leah enter as Nick and Abby come upstairs.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Who's that?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I invited Martin.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Martin Addison?</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Why?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(barely selling it)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>He's cool.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon opens the door to reveal Martin wearing one of his iconic pun shirts (this one says I'M A FUNGI with a picture of a MUSHROOMIN SUNGLASSES.) He's not even cool adjacent.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Evening, Spier. Ready to party?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at Martin's shirt, perturbed.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. /EXT.LEAH'S CAR/ SHADY CREEK STREETS - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Leah drives with Simon riding shotgun. Abby is sandwiched between Nick and Martin in the back. She scrolls through Spotify on her phone.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Would you just pick a song already!</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(laughing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It's hard! There are so many choices.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin sees an opening to connect with Abby •••</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>You should see me try and choose a film on Netflix.</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Am I feeling like Apatow or am I in a Billy Wilder mood? Not like you have to be in a mood for the genius of Billy--</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(ignoring Martin)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Just put on Drake! You're black, I've been to Canada. A little something for everybody.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby laughs. As they continue to flirt, Martin mumbles to himself,</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>••• sometimes if I can't decide I watch Knocked Up and Sunset Boulevard.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon shakes his head. This is not going well for Martin.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. BRAM'S STREET - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Everyone gets out of the car and walks toward Bram's. As the gang charges towards the party, Martin pulls Simon aside.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>What the hell, Spier? Nick won't stop flirting with Abby.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I don't know what to tell you.</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <parenthetical>(annoyed)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Tell me you'll make him stop.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>How am I supposed to--</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But Martin is already hurrying after Abby. Simon sighs.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. BRAM'S HOUSE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A who's who of the Junior class dancing, flirting, and drinking very cheap flavored vodka. Simon, Nick, and Leah enter trailed by Martin who regales Abby with more hyper-specific conversation:</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>... but I think Gilda Radner was the greatest SNL member of all time.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(polite)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Wow, you know a lot about sketch comedy.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby spots a friend across the party.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Chloe, hi!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby takes Leah's hand and drags her away with her. Martin considers for a moment. Then he follows after the girls. Bram approaches Simon and Nick. Simon automatically smooths down his hair nervously.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>This party is crazy!</dialogue>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>I know. I invited like fifteen people. And then Garrett invited the rest of the school. I think most of these people think we're at his house.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ACROSS THE ROOM, a drunk Garrett karaokes to Beyonce.</scene_description>
    <character>GARRETT</character>
    <dialogue>What's worse, looking jealous or crazy? Jealous or crazy?</dialogue>
    <character>RANDOMKID</character>
    <dialogue>Great party, Garrett!</dialogue>
    <character>GARRETT</character>
    <dialogue>Thanks, Benji!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>BACK ON Simon, Nick, and Bram:</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>How about a shot? To your party.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>And your aunt finding a man who isn't a con artist.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Bram smiles. Nick grabs a bottle of FIREBALL WHISKEY and pours TWO SHOTS, assuming Simon doesn't want one.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Uh, I'll have one too.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(surprised)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Really? You couldn't even finish a glass of Manischewitz at Leah's seder.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Just give me the shot, Nick.</dialogue>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>I've found it helps not to breathe through your nose until it's all the way down. Then you pretend you loved it and go "whooo!"</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon nods, grateful for Bram's candor. Nick hands Simon a shot glass. They all down their shots. There's a CRASH in the next room.</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>Oh god, I hope that wasn't one of my mom's porcelain owls. She does not have a sense of humor about those.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He hurries into the crowd. Simon stares after him.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. BRAM'S BACKYARD- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon and Nick step out onto a deck overlooking PARTYGOERSin the yard below. Nick can't take his eyes off of Abby, who whips and nae naes with a group of GIRLS. Including Leah, who awkwardly snaps her fingers to the music, trying her best to cut loose.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Abby is so hot it's insane.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, she's ... unstoppable.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Suddenly, Nick looks worried,</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Wait, you're not, like, into her, are you?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Nah. She's hot but she's not, uh, my type.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then, quickly)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Not because she's black. I love black women.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Not like, I have a thing for black women. I just love all women,</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon grimaces at his awkwardness. But Nick doesn't notice.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>The other day, she missed her bus to stay and help me make a list of all the colleges that have soccer scholarships. And she's the only person whose eyes don't glaze over when I recap my dreams.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(resolved)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm gonna ask her out.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Shit. Simon glances down at Martin, desperately trying to dance with Abby. She's focused on her circle of girlfriends and has no idea that he's even there. Simon can't let Nick get in the way of Martin's pursuit of Abby. So .••</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You can't ask Abby out.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(surprised)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Why not?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Because ..•</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon racks his brain for a reason. Unfortunately, the only one he can think of is a lie.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Look. At her old school, Abby had kind of a reputation.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>What kind of reputation?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>For being ... experienced. She hooked up with a ton of guys.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Oh. I didn't know that.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>And have you seen her old Facebook photos?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>It's like everyone at that school was a seven foot tall black dude. So she probably has very high standards ... sexually.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>But I've only had sex once.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(meaningfully)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I know.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>And I could barely figure out where my dick went.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(gravely)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I know.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>I mean, I knew where it went, but no one tells you how dark it's gonna be. Or how slippery everything gets. And how parts that you think are the right parts are actually the other parts. And then by the time I figured it out, it was over.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I think she's used to guys who know</dialogue>
    <scene_description>which parts are the right parts.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(hating himself)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I don't blame her.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Don't tell her I told you about how many guys she's been with, okay? She'd be super embarrassed.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, of course.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(overwhelmed)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm gonna go get another drink.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Silnon watches Nick go, then glances down at Abby, happily dancing. He feels like shit.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. BRAM'S BACKYARD- LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon comes down from the deck onto the lawn where Bram is setting up a BEER PONG TABLE with Abby.</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>Abby says it's not a real party until there's beer pong.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>That's right. Words to live by.</dialogue>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>You wanna play?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>sure.</dialogue>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>Cool. We need one more.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Hey. How about you and me versus Abby and ...</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(fake scans the crowd)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Martin. Martin, come over here!</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>No, don't--</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But it's too late. Martin bounds over.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Martin, you're on Abby's team.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby shoots Simon an annoyed look. Simon gives an innocent shrug.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Have you ever even played beer pong before?</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Totally.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(to everyone, no BS)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Great. No blowing, two re-racks, two balls in one cup means you drink three. Cool?</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Actually, I was thinking of a different game. I've never played.</dialogue>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <parenthetical>(gently)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>We'll explain as we go.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(not gently)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Simon and Martin, shoot to decide who goes first. You can't break eye contact. Whoever gets their ball in wins.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Bram hands Simon and Martin each a ping pong ball. He pats Simon on the back, his hand lingering on his shoulder.</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>You got this.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon turns from the adorable soccer player to face the nerd threatening to ruin his life, He is DETERMINED TO WIN THIS SHOOT OFF. Simon focuses, aims, tosses, and ... GETS HIS BALL IN A CUP! Martin's ball meanwhile flies across the yard in the complete wrong direction, hitting a--</scene_description>
    <character>PARTYGOER</character>
    <dialogue>ow, what the hell!</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Sorry!</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I got it in!</dialogue>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>I saw!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And with this, MUSIC KICKS IN for a SEQUENCE intercutting Simon's beer pong game with moments of Simon thriving at the party, emerging from his shell a bit, and getting DEEE-RUNK.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. BEER PONG TABLE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon shoots and gets a ball in a cup. He's a natural!</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>Drink, Martin!</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to Simon)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>We need a handshake.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>We do need a handshake!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. BRAM'S BACKYARD- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon does Big Sean's rap from Justin Bieber's "As Long As You Love Me" for a crowd of KIDS. He is surprisingly good.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Now we on top of the world, 'Cause that's just how we do. Used to tell me sky's the limit Now the sky's our point of view!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. BEER PONG TABLE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Bram gets a ball in a cup. They do an elaborate handshake they've apparently just made up.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Should we have a handshake too?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>You get one ball in, we'll make up a handshake.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. BRAM'S BACKYARD- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon grabs Leah and pulls her onto the grass where a bunch of kids are dancing. She gives in and starts actually having fun. EXT, BEER PONG TABLE - LATER Bram gets in a shot and Martin has to chug a beer. He sways a little, already kind of drunk.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Do you want me to drink for you?</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <parenthetical>(trying for swagger)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I can hold my own, kiddo.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He THROWSthe ball.</scene_description>
    <character>SPECTATOR</character>
    <dialogue>It's not your turn, Mar-tard!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. BRAM'S BACKYARD- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon watches as Bram surveys the snack table then pops a REESE'S PEANUT BUTTER CUP into his mouth. Simon is feeling like Bram is totally Blue.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. BEER PONG TABLE - LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon and Bram have one cup to go. Simon is up. If he makes the shot, they win.</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>You got this.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon takes a deep breath, focuses, and shoots the ball. And he gets it in!</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>Yes!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon and Bram share a quick victory hug. Simon is totally feeling their chemistry.</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>I'm gonna go make us victory drinks. Be right back.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Bram heads inside. A wasted Martin approaches Simon.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>I think tonight is going well. She didn't want to see my ventriloquist act but that actually works out because I don't have my dummy with--</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Before Martin can finish, he BARFS all over. A little of it splatters on Simon's shoes.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Daronit, Martin.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. BRAM'S HOUSE - UPSTAIRS HALL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon carries his barf-covered shoes as he drunkenly searches for the bathroom door. He opens it. Except it isn't the bathroom. It's a ••.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. BEDROOM- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>..• where Bram is making out with a HOT SOPHOMOREGIRL, who is aggressively unzipping his pants. Bram starts to unhook her bra. Simon stands there in shock. Bram looks up, notices Simon.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I, uh-- sorry. Bathroom. Bye.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon slams the door shut, He sighs. Guess Bram wasn't Blue after all. Fuck.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. BRAM'S YARD - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A spent Simon comes outside to find Martin passed out, Nick sitting alone spiraling about his lack of sexual experience, and Abby dancing with Garrett and Leah. Simon approaches,</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>No, that is definitely not it.</dialogue>
    <character>GARRETT</character>
    <parenthetical>(spastically dancing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Simon, tell them that this is the Macarena.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I got thrown up on. Can we go home?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SIMON'S HOUSE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Abby and Simon say goodbye to Leah who is in her car.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Thanks</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>for</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby and Simon approach Simon's front door. A light is stil l on in the living room.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Oh god. I think my parents are still up. Do I seem drunk?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon struggles not to sway.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Yes. Just stand strong, like a tree. And think of something sad. Like that documentary about how all the whales hate living at Sea World.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I can't think about that. Too sad.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Exactly. And here.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby takes a JAR OF PEANUT BUTTER out of her purse, scoops a dollop out with her finger and offers it to Simon.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Uh, no thanks?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>It's to cover up the booze on your breath. Which right now smells like my Uncle Lester when the Braves lose a game. Or win a game.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon takes a scoop. Through a mouthful of peanut butter:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You're my smartest friend. You should get an award. For outstanding friendship smartness and intelligence,</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby wipes a glob of peanut butter from Simon's upper lip.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Let me do the talking, 'kay?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S HOUSE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon and Abby enter. Denise and Jack are watching a movie.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Hi, guys. How was the party?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Great.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Denise sniffs the air.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Why does it smell like peanut butter?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(drunk/guilty)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What? No, it doesn't! Maybe you're having a stroke.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Okay, good night! Thanks for letting me stay over!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby drags Simon out of the room. Once they're gone:</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>He's a little drunk, right?</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Definitely. But he didn't drive and he made it home by curfew. So I'd say we're killing it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Denise nods in agreement. Then:</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Do you think we should have Abby sleep on the couch?</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Nah, there's nothing to worry about. She's way out of his league.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Denise gives Jack a shove.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Abby snores soundly on a sleeping bag on the floor. Simon is in bed, wide awake, mind reeling. He takes out his iPhone and opens a new e-mail. He begins to type quickly, the words pouring out of him:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Dear Blue, I've been thinking about why I haven't come out yet. Maybe it's because it doesn't seem fair that only gay people have to come out. Why is straight the default?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares over at Abby, sleeping peacefully. He imagines a SEQUENCE of his best friends "coming out" ... CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. ABBY'S APARTMENT - DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Abby approaches her MOM, who is drinking coffee at the kitchen counter.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Mom, there's something I have to tell you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby's Mom looks alarmed.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. NICK'S HOUSE - DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Nick approaches his PARENTS, watching television the couch.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Guys. Um, can we talk?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nick's Mom shuts off the TV, concerned.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. LEAH'S HOUSE - DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Leah eats dinner with her ENTIRE FAMILY. She taps on her GLASS to get them to quiet down:</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>There's something I need to say.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>QUICK CUTS as Leah, Nick, and Abby, "come out."</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. ABBY'S HOUSE - DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>I'm straight.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby's Morn BURSTS INTO TEARS. She crosses herself.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. NICK'S HOUSE - DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(deep breath, then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I like girls.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nick's Morn takes Nick's Dad's hand.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. LEAH'S HOUSE - NIGHT (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>I have a crush on Nick. Because ..• I'm into guys.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah's family looks STUNNED. Leah's Dad walks out of the room, furious. Leah hangs her head, devastated. BACK TO REALITY:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon continues writing to Blue.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Or maybe it's because I'm tired of coming out. I keep changing in all these tiny ways.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>HIGH SCHOOL- CAFETERIA - DAY (FLASHBACK) Simon introduces Abby to Leah and Nick for the first time.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>I make a new friend.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. BRAM'S PARTY - EARLIER THAT NIGHT (FLASHBACK)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon takes his first shot of Fireball.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON ( V � 0 � )</character>
    <dialogue>I get drunk.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- DAY (FLASHBACK)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon locks his bedroom door.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON ( V � 0 � )</character>
    <dialogue>I start locking my door so I can fantasize about someone I've never even met.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He lies on his bed and slides his hand down his pants. BACK TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon continues his e-mail:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V � 0 � )</character>
    <dialogue>And every single time, I have to reintroduce myself to the world all over again.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon takes a moment to consider. Then, he keeps writing:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>There's not that much of high school left.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. / EXT. SIMON'S CAR/ CREEKWOODHIGH - DAY (FLASHBACK)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon, Nick, and Leah drive into school with iced coffees, their classic morning routine. They laugh and joke with the ease of lifelong friends.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON ( V. 0 � )</character>
    <dialogue>And part of me wants to hold on to who I've always been, just a little longer.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DORMROOM- DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon's ROOMMATE hangs a sexy EMILY RATAJKOWSKIPOSTER above his bed.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V .O.)</character>
    <dialogue>And then in college, I'll be gay and proud, I promise.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon hangs a MICHAEL ANGELAKOS PASSION PIT POSTER above his bed. BACK TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon finishes writing to Blue.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V �0 , )</character>
    <dialogue>Not sure who I'm promising. You? The universe? Myself? I'll keep ruminating. Love, Jacques.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon hits SEND. After a moment, he panics. He reviews his message, and there it is in front of him: -"Love, Jacques." He closes his e-mail.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(terrified)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh god.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - AUDITORIUM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The cast mills about onstage, waiting for rehearsal to begin.</scene_description>
    <character>TAYLOR</character>
    <dialogue>-- and then for New Year's, we fly to Kauai! But don't worry, I'm going to wear so much sunscreen. A tan Oliver would completely ruin the integrity of our production. Anyone else doing Christmas to Hawaii?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby stares daggers at Taylor.</scene_description>
    <character>CAL</character>
    <dialogue>I'm going to an unheated vacation house in the middle of nowhere. As is my bleak family tradition.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I'm staying here. Alice is coming home from--</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <parenthetical>(approaching.)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Simon, can I talk to you?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon's heart sinks.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>College.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He reluctantly steps away to talk to Martin.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>I got nowhere with Abby at Bram's party!</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Well, maybe you shouldn't have worn your uI'm A Fungus" t-shirt.</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Fungi! Like fun guy.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I got it, Martin. Nobody wants to have sex with a pun.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin is starting to get worked up,</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Stop joking around, man! I don't want to leak those e-mails, but I will. And I know you don't want the whole school learning that you and your internet boyfriend have crushes on Jon Snow.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon freezes.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You can't drag Blue into this. He's really private.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin avoids eye contact. He clearly feels guilty, but not guilty enough to take back the threat.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(panicking)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You don't understand. If you posted our e-mails he'd be so freaked out. He'd never talk to me again.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Before Martin has a chance to respond, Abby approaches with her Oliver script. She has no idea she's walking into such a loaded moment.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>I cannot memorize all my Oliver lines. The Artful Dodger never shuts the hell up.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off their weird looks)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What's wrong with you two?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon takes a beat. Then:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Martin's having trouble learning his part too. Why don't we all go to Waffle House later this week and run lines?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Really? That'd be great!</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>I'm insky.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby heads off. Once she's gone:</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Nice work, Spier,</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>{cold)</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Go to hell, Martin. Simon walks backstage, anxious to get away from Martin. He takes out his phone. He has a new e-mail from Blue. We hear it read in the anonymous voice Simon imagined, before he suspected Blue was Bram:</scene_description>
    <character>BLUE (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Jacques, I know what you mean about wanting to wait till college.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>EXT, CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - FRONT STEPS - LATER THAT DAY Simon heads towards his car, a dazed look on his face.</scene_description>
    <character>BLUE (V,O,)</character>
    <dialogue>I've got a pretty good thing going as closeted me. Can't I just hold on a little longer?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And you're right, it's not fair that straight people get to go about their lives without thinking twice.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon passes a straight couple MAKING OUT passionately. Nobody pays them any attention.</scene_description>
    <character>BLUE (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>They should definitely have to come out. As straight. I guess this is our version of the Homosexual Agenda? Love, Blue.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon takes out his phone. He opens up the same e-mail we just heard. There it is in black and white: "Love, Blue." He stares at the words, terrified of losing Blue. INT, WAFFLEHOUSE - DAY Simon and Abby grab a booth.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>( scanning)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I guess Martin's not here yet.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Um, not to be a bitch, but why are we hanging out with Martin so much lately?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I like him. He marches to the beat of his own drum.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>I bet the drum has a bad pun on it.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Sooo, while we're waiting ..• what do you think about Nick?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>What do you mean?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Like, do you think Nick is ... cool?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon knows where this is going. And he wants no part of it.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(too sharp)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Of course I think he's cool. If I didn't, why would I be friends with him?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby shoots him a weird look.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Uh, okay, sorry. I guess what I'm trying to ask is, do you think he's worthy of the new girl in school crushing on him? Just a little?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stiffens. He's going to have to play defense to keep Nick and Abby apart. Again.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>No. You should not get with Nick.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(deflating)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Really? Why not?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Because ...</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(lying)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Nick's bad to women.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>What?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>SIMON Not like Chris Brown bad. He's just immature. And selfish.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Really? How?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(thinks, then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>He had a serious girlfriend before you moved here. And he cheated on her.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>He did?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah. She was crazy about him. And he slept with someone else.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>I mean, that's shitty ••• but we're in high school. Stuff like that happens.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>The girl he slept with was his girlfriend's cousin.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Oh my god.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I know. She came to visit for the summer. From Maine.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, maybe he really liked her?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(getting frustrated)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No. He didn't. That's the worst part. He just kept saying, "How cool would it be if I banged cousins?"</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>That's really effed up.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>It doesn't sound like him at all.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You can't say anything to Nick. He'd be so mad if he knew I told you,</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>I won't. I promise.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They sit in unpleasant silence for a moment. Simon feels like shit. Then, Martin enters wearing a NON-FUNNY POLO SHIRT and some PRODUCT in his hair.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Sorry I'm late.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Hey. Nice shirt.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin immediately turns beet red and gets so weird.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, really? I don't know. I'm just trying something.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby smiles, a little charmed by Martin's awkwardness. Their waiter, LYLE (17, cute), approaches.</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <dialogue>Hey guys, what can I get you?</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, Lyle,</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to Simon and Abby)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Do you guys know Lyle? We have Latin together.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Don't</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>think</dialogue>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Simon)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Actually, we had Bio together last year.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, sorry.</dialogue>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <dialogue>That's okay. It was a big class. I have a good memory for faces.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I don't. One time I asked Jake Gyllenhaal for Toby Maguire's autograph. He said no.</dialogue>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <parenthetical>(smiles, then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm going to seem like a total stalker, but I'm guessing you want a banana strawberry waffle with whipped cream and chocolate chips?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon is surprised: clearly Lyle has REALLY noticed him. Could he be into guys?</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah. I do.</dialogue>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <dialogue>I've waited on you before. And it's kind of a memorable order.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Because I order like a four-year- old destined for diabetes?</dialogue>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <parenthetical>(laughing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No. You order like someone who knows what he wants.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon smiles at Lyle and imagines .•. CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. BLUE'S BEDROOM- DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The same navy blue bedroom we've seen our faceless Blue writing e-mails in. Except now the door opens and LYLE ENTERS, taking off his Waffle House vest, BACK TO REALITY:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. WAFFLE HOUSE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at Lyle as he writes down their order, wondering if he could be Blue,</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. WAFFLE HOUSE - LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>We're mid-meal. Abby and Martin run Oliver lines. Simon keeps casually glancing over at Lyle, waiting tables.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(as Artful Dodger)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Fagin, this is my new friend, Oliver Twist.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon checks the script and gives her a thumbs up. Martin stares dreamily at Abby.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>It's your line, Martin.</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <parenthetical>(ignoring him)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>That's a great British accent. You sound like Audrey Hepburn.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Thanks. Do you need Simon to give you your line?</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <parenthetical>(ignoring her)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Have you ever been to London?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Nope. Simon, maybe you should give him--</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>You're from D.C., right?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Mhram. Let's try not to lose--</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>That's awesome, What part?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>What's with the third degree, Martin? You writing a book about black girls from D.C.?</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <parenthetical>(faux offended)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm naturally inquisitive. My mom says it's one of my best qualities.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby can't help but smile at Martin.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Not sure your mom is the most reliable source.</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Are you calling Janet Addison a liar? Because that's blasphemy, she is a phenomenal judge of character.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby laughs and grabs a french fry off Martin's plate. Simon watches, pleasantly surprised. It's not exactly sexually charged but maybe Martin isn't totally hopeless? Simon notices Lyle standing outside on his break and decides to take advantage of the opportunity.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Be right back.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. WAFFLEHOUSE - MOMENTSLATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon steps outside to find Lyle finishing up something on his phone. Simon musters up his courage and approaches.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>So, were you in Bio the day we performed the "identifying leaves" test?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Lyle looks up from his phone.</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <dialogue>Oh my god, yes. And Joel Winslow ate the poison ivy?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Yes! Because Doug Fogerty told him it was pot.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Lyle laughs.</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <dialogue>I should get back to disinfecting the waffle irons.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off Simon's look)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It's not as bad as it sounds. Actually, it is.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>If you don't remember me the next time we meet I'm going to take it personally.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They share a smile and Lyle heads in. Simon takes out his phone and notices he has a new e-mail. Blue. CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. WAFFLE HOUSE - MINUTES EARLIER (FLASHBACK)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>We're back to moment ago, when Simon stepped outside and saw Lyle finishing something on his phone. Could he have been typing this very e-mail? BACK TO: EXT, WAFFLE HOUSE - AS WE WERE Simon starts to read the e-mail, imagining Lyle's voice narrating it.</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>So my dad's flying in tonight for Chanukah. Did I mention my parents are divorced and I'm half-Jewish?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CRAPPY HOTEL - DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A BEAT UP CHEVY pulls into the parking lot of this low-rent hotel. LYLE'S FATHER (40's) gets out of the car, takes in the hotel and sighs.</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE (V,O,)</character>
    <dialogue>My dad is staying at the same crappy hotel as always. And we'll do all our horribly awkward traditions.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>INT, CRAPPY HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT (SIMON'S FANTASY) Lyle's Father opens the front door to let in Lyle. He steps into the room and the two men share an awkward hug.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CRAPPY HOTEL ROOM- LATER (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Lyle watches as his dad makes a big show of PRETENDING TO LIGHT A MENORAH.</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>We'll mime lighting the menorah. We won't actually light it because that could set off the smoke detector.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>INT, CRAPPY HOTEL ROOM - LATER (SIMON'S FANTASY) Lyle sits in front of a bunch of WRAPPING PAPER, having just unwrapped seven VERY LACKLUSTER GIFTS.</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>And then I'll open all eight presents. Because this is the only night of Chanukah we'll actually spend together.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He finishes unwrapping the last one ... a pair of BOXERS with bottles of HOT SAUCE on them. He feigns enthusiasm.</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>The only thing worse than how much I hate the gifts my dad gives me is how much he hates the gifts he gives me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>His dad shrugs and winces.</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Would you believe I'm actually considering doubling down and turning this awkward mess into a coming out thing? Something about him living across the country makes me feel like I can tell him without blowing up my entire world.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Lyle puts down the boxers. He takes a deep breath and stares his dad straight in the eyes.</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Do you think I'm crazy? Love, Blue.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>BACK TO REALITY:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. WAFFLE HOUSE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon responds immediately:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>No, Blue. I don't think you're crazy. I think you're brave as fuck. Love, Jacques.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./ EXT. ABBY'S CAR/ SHADYCREEK STREETS - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Abby drives as Simon sits shotgun. He's deep in thought as Abby rambles on about Martin.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(thoughtful)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Y'know, Martin's not that bad. But we didn't get anything done. He was too busy asking how being a child of divorce informed my ideal romantic partner ..•</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As Abby continues her rant about Martin, we •.• CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CRAPPY HOTEL ROOM- NIGHT (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Lyle and his dad sit on the foot of the bed. Lyle takes a deep breath and tells his dad he's gay. His dad nods as the enormity of Lyle's words sink in. BACK TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. /EXT.ABBY'S CAR/ SHADYCREEK STREETS - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>And something about imagining this is making Simon practically burst ..•</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Maybe if I try recording my Oliver lines and listening to them while I sleep--</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Abby!</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat, then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm gay.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Oh.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They drive for a moment. Simon begins to panic at the enormity of what he's just done:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You can't tell anyone. No one else knows--</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby pulls over. They're quiet for a moment.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>So this is the first time you've told anyone?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon nods.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>I'm honored.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Are you surprised?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(thinks, then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No .</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>So you knew?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>No .</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>But you're not surprised?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(gently)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Do you want me to be surprised?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I don't know.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>What are you going to do now? Are you going to tell more people?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I don't know.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Okay, well, I love you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And there's nothing else to say. They stare at each other a moment longer. Abby smiles at him then begins to drive again. Simon brushes away tears.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon enters to find his parents cuddled up, reading.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, Si.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>How was your day, buddy?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon considers the enormity of his day. But all he says is:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>It was fine.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They smile at him then go back to reading. Simon lingers, staring at the OLD FRAMEDFAMILY PHOTOS on the piano. It all seems like a simpler time. And one that seems further away with every passing second. As he exits, we hear his next e-mail to Blue:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Dear Blue, I hope it goes okay with your dad. Whatever happens, you inspired me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>EXT, SIMON'S BACKYARD- NIGHT Simon lies in the hammock, writing to Blue on his phone:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>I came out to my friend tonight. I never would have done it without you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon considers for a moment. He's buzzing with adrenaline and excitement and he can't help but add ...</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Maybe we should ride this bravery train and reveal our identities. I'm dying to know who you are. Love, Jacques.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon is asleep. Then, the unmistakable NEW E-MAIL BING on his phone. Simon checks his e-mail and reads Blue's new message:</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>I told my dad. It was insanely awkward. But in the end, it went well,</dialogue>
    <character>LYLE (V,O.) {</character>
    <dialogue>We even decided to throw caution to the wind and light the menorah for real.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CRAPPY HOTEL ROOM- NIGHT (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Lyle's Dad lights the Chanukah candles with a Bic.</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE (V,O.)</character>
    <dialogue>That went less well.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The SPRINKLERS in the room turn on, dousing Lyle and his dad with water. BACK TO REALITY:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon smiles, continues reading:</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Also, you've got it backwards. It's you who inspired me.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But, I'm sorry. I'm just not ready for us to know each other's identities, Love, Blue.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon's smile fades as he comes crashing back to earth. Then, he notices he has TWOUNREADTEXTS: one from Martin, one from Abby. He opens Martin's first. CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MARTIN'S ROOM- NIGHT (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Martin addresses the camera, relaying her text message out loud:</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Great job orchestrating today's hang. I feel like Abby and I were really vibing. Keep up the good work and maybe your secret will stay in the closer.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Sorry, autotype. Closet.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>BACK TO REALITY:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon looks worried. Then, he opens Abby's text. CUT TO: INT, ABBY'S ROOM- NIGHT (SIMON'S FANTASY) Abby sits on her bed in PJS. She speaks directly to camera:</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>You coming out made me think, Life is short. Don't care about Nick's past. Gonna tell him how I feel. Heart emoji, nervous emoji. Sorry for late night text. XX.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She BLOWS TWO KISSES to the camera. BACK TO REALITY: INT, SIMON'S BEDROOM- NIGHT Simon stares at his phone, very worried.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Shit.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Off Simon, desperate to protect his relationship with Blue ...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>HIGH SCHOOL - THE NEXT DAY Nick closes his locker door and is startled to find Simon standing right it.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Ahh! God, ever since that sinus surgery you're such a quiet breather.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nick and Simon start walking to class.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I figured out your dream.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Huh?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Putting in your contacts backwards. I figured out what you can't see that's right in front of you.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, yeah. That was a good one. But not as good as the one I had</dialogue>
    <dialogue>last night. I'm playing goalie for Atletico Madrid, and Lionel Messi is about to shoot on me when I</dialogue>
    <dialogue>realize there's a heart shaped hole in my shorts and my balls are hanging out-</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Shut up!</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I figured out what you can't see that's right in front of you.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>What?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Leah.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>What about her?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>She's who you really want to be with.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>NICK Uh, wouldn't I know if I wanted to be with Leah?</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>No. Because you're too close to it. You've been best friends so long that you can't see what's right in front of you.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(doubtful)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I don't think so-</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Of course! It's always been Leah. Abby was just your way of</dialogue>
    <dialogue>distracting yourself because you're scared to go for it with Leah.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>I dunno, the Abby thing feels real. And I've been thinking, the sexual experience thing isn't really that big a deal.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(drops voice to whisper)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I've actually been practicing. I got this thing on the internet called a pocket puss--</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(blurting out)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Abby likes Martin!</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>What? Martin Addison? No way.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon takes a breath. Time for some more lying.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I know. I was surprised too, but they've been spending a ton of time together at rehearsals. She likes how quirky he is.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Wow.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But Martin definitely isn't good at sex!</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I heard he learned a ton from some divorced woman. On a family cruise.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nick looks disgusted as they stop outside his classroom.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Just promise me you'll think about asking Leah out. You're the one who's always saying the subconscious works in mysterious ways.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(unsure)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I do say that.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nick heads into his class, lost in thought. Off Simon, feeling like the biggest shit heel in the world ... HIGH SCHOOL - HALLWAY-</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon shuts his locker door to find Leah standing behind it , a la Simon in the previous scene.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Ahh!</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <parenthetical>(uncomfortable)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>So •.• Nick asked me to have dinner before the Christmas homecoming game.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon feigns ignorance.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Uh, okay?</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>No, you don't understand. He was like, "Do you want to have dinner?" And I was like, "Sure, are Abby and Simon in?" And he was like, "I was thinking it could be just the two of us. Like ••• a date."</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Oh. Wow, This is amazing!</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>It is?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I mean, isn't it? I know you're into him.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah looks surprised. Like she didn't realize Simon knew that.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Come on, Leah. I'm your best friend. I see things. And I've always thought you guys would be great together.</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Really?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Of course. You were born two weeks apart, you grew up across the street from each other, your middle names are both Alex, You guys are one tragic boating accident away from being a Nicholas Sparks movie.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon sees that Leah still looks very unsure. And he's pretty sure he knows why •.•</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(gently)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I know you haven't really dated before. But you have nothing to be worried about. It's Nick.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah finally manages a nervous:</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Okay, then. I guess I'll say yes.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I'm so psyched for you guys.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon gives her a hug, praying that he hasn't set Leah up to get her heart broken by the guy she's in love with .. ,</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - FOOTBALL FIELD - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Creekwood's Christmas-themed homecoming is a real spectacle: The MARCHING BAND plays a horn version of "All I Want For Christmas Is You". CHEERLEADERS form a very impressive Christmas tree (okay, it's a pyramid, but they're holding ornaments!). STUDENTSchow down on pulled pork and apple cider from a collection of food trucks. And the CREEKWOODGRIZZLY BEAR MASCOT chases the ALMONT ARCHER (a guy dressed as a giant foam bow and arrow) across the field. Simon and Abby take in the scene.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Why is the Almont Archer mascot a giant bow and arrow? Shouldn't it be an archer?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>It used to be this super racist Native American character that was played by a Jewish kid with a spray tan.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(cringing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oooooh.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah. This is better.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They scan the crowd for Nick and Leah.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(bummed)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I guess Nick and Leah are still on their date.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I'm sure they'll be here soon.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then, off Abby)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm really sorry it didn't work out with you and Nick.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>It's cool. I'm not really thinking about it. Definitely not picturing them parked on a quiet street. Zayn Malik comes on, they make out. And then it starts to rain .•.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon feels awful. Tries to change the subject.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>How about something deep fried?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He leads Abby to the food trucks. Abby gazes out at the FOOTBALL PLAYERS warming up on the field in their uniforms.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>At least the eye candy here is a distraction. Is it just me, or is the Almont QB insanely hot?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon is immediately uncomfortable.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>We can talk about stuff like that now, you know.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I guess so. I don't really know how though.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Then you better practice. Simon, do you think the quarterback is looking fooiiine in his hot pants?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, he's pretty fine.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>No. Foooiinne.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(laughing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Foooiine.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon and Abby approach a BURGERTRUCK,</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Four cheeseburgers, please.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then, realizing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, duh, Nick and Leah will have eaten. Just two.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon gives Abby a sad smile.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>You know what, even if Nick and I had gotten together, we just would've broken up when college started.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You would have?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Of course. All high school couples say they're gonna do the long distance thing. Then three months into freshman year you get tired of Facetiroe sex, have a few too many vodka cranberries, and all of a sudden you're hooking up with your Poly Sci TA in the back of his truck.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off Simon)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It happened to my cousin.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Before Simon has a chance to respond ••.</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, guys,</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon and Abby turn around to find Lyle getting in line at a chicken and biscuits truck.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Lyle. My favorite waiter.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Hey. 'Sup.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon quickly runs his hand through his hair. And Abby realizes Simon is into Lyle.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>I'm going to go grab us some drinks.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby gives Simon a pointed look and walks away.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Wouldn't have taken you for a homecoming guy.</dialogue>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <dialogue>I'm just here for the biscuits.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I get it. It's all about the sweet tea and camaraderie for this guy.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon cringes at his lame line. But Lyle smiles. Charmed?</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <parenthetical>(suddenly nervous)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Hey, so, Can I ask you a question?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon is nearly bursting with anticipation.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Of course.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Lyle steels himself. Then asks:</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <dialogue>What's Abby's deal?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Seriously? Lyle likes Abby? Simon can barely hide his devastation.</scene_description>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <dialogue>I know you and her hang out a lot. Are the two of you--</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(annoyed)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>We're just friends,</dialogue>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <dialogue>Cool, Good to know. God, I could never be best friends with someone that hot.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Yup. Every day is a struggle,</dialogue>
    <character>LYLE</character>
    <dialogue>Uh, I think the Creekwood Grizzly Bear wants to talk to you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Lyle points to the edge of the field where the CREEKWOOD GRIZZLY BEAR MASCOT is beckoning to Simon. Simon goes over to the Bear, confused.</scene_description>
    <character>CREEKWOODGRIZZLY BEAR</character>
    <dialogue>Dude. It's me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon looks into the mouth of the bear, where he can see behind some gauzy black fabric ... Martin.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You're the Creekwood Grizzly Bear? Actually, that makes total sense.</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Thank you,</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Not a compliment.</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>I saw you come in with Abby. Has she said anything about me since Waffle House?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>She had fun,</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>I knew we had a breakthrough!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon isn't in the mood for Martin's bullshit right now.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I gotta go, Martin.</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Wait! I need to build on this momentum fast. What do I do?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I'm sure you'll figure something out.</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>No, I won't figure something out. That's what you're for, to help me figure it out--</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maybe it's what just happened with Lyle. Maybe it's feeling like shit about what he's doing to Nick and Abby. But Simon snaps:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I don't know what to tell you, Martin! I guess if I was a heterosexual guy who liked a girl, I'd shout it from the rooftops. Because I could. So maybe it's time to tell her you like her. Go big or go home.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon takes off, leaving Martin considering his words. He finds Abby, struggling to carry their burgers and teas. Simon takes the cups.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(re: Lyle)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Eh?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Nah.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Aww. At least we can die alone together.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She puts her arm around Simon and they head to find seats. HIGH SCHOOL- FOOTBALLBLEACHERS- LATER</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon and Abby sit in the packed stands, digging into their burgers and waiting for the game to start. Nick and Leah approach, fresh from their date. They're both dressed a little nicer than usual. Nick glances at Abby, uncomfortable. Leah looks nervous as hell.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, guys.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Hey.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nick and Leah sit down next to them, hard to read. Simon tries to break the silence.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Uh, how was dinner?</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(forced)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It was cool.</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Mhmm. We got soup dumplings.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Another loaded silence. Our gang has never been so awkward together. Finally:</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Leah)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I like your dress.</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, thanks--</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(bitter, to Abby)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I bet you'd like it even better if it had a pun on it.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>What's that supposed to mean?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nick shrugs, and puts his arm around Leah. She's super uncomfortable, weirded out by Nick and Abby's charged dynamic. Simon cringes. This is a disaster.</scene_description>
    <character>ANNOUNCER (V,O,)</character>
    <dialogue>And now, everyone please rise for the national anthem.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Taylor walks onto the field with a microphone.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I'm sure this will be a subtle and tasteful rendition.</dialogue>
    <character>TAYLOR</character>
    <dialogue>{crazy vibrato)</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Oooo-oohhh say-- Taylor stops singing when she notices Martin rushing the field in his Grizzly Bear costume. He reaches for her microphone. As they struggle over the mic:</scene_description>
    <character>TAYLOR</character>
    <dialogue>What the hell are you doing?</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>I need the mic.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He YANKS the mic away from her. Everyone stares at them, rapt. Martin takes off his BEAR HEAD.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(under his breath)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh no.</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Sorry to interrupt, but I have something to say that's a little more important than our national anthem. No offense, America.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin waits for a laugh that never comes. He clears his throat and finds Abby in the audience.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Abby, when you came to Creekwood High School three and a half short months ago, you didn't just transfer into a new school. You transferred into my heart,</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As he talks, he walks up into the bleachers, approaching her.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Whether it's being your partner in pong or your Waffle House warrior ...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Everyone looks confused. This isn't the easiest declaration of love to follow.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>I've really loved getting to know you this semester.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(deep breath)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And I know you're a beautiful, smart, perfect woman, and I'm just a sweaty schlub in a bear suit. But like ol' Bogie said, it's a crazy, mixed-up world.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>By now Martin is standing right in front of Abby.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>So? What do you say? Would you want to go out sometime?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Oh. Um •• •</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby takes Martin's microphone and SWITCHESIT OFF. Martin shuffles uncomfortably. He can tell this isn't going well.</scene_description>
    <character>JOCK A FEW ROWSBACK</character>
    <dialogue>She's too hot for you, Martin!</dialogue>
    <character>JOCK'S BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Way out of your league, buddy!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>People around the Jocks LAUGH.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Shut up, Lucas!</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then, to Martin)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I-- I just don't feel that way about you.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(surprised, blurting out)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You don't?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby shoots him a weird look. Nick looks at Simon like, "You told me she liked him." Simon shrugs.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Martin)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm really sorry. I hope we can still be friends.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin is devastated. He takes a deep breath, wipes his sweaty hair out of his eyes. Then:</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Sure. Don't worry about it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He turns the mic back on and forces a manic:</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>And now back to Taylor with our regular scheduled anthem!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He stumbles awkwardly back down to the field. He almost trips over a STRAY HOTDOG. Abby picks up Martin's bear head.</scene_description>
    <character>· ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(feels terrible)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Martin, don't forget your ••. head.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He grabs it, puts it on, and abruptly re-assumes chipper mascot mode, dancing back down to the field. Nick whispers to Simon:</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>You said she liked him.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I thought she did.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(stricken)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>That was horrible.</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <parenthetical>(gently)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Don't worry. People will have forgotten about it by the time we're back from Christmas break.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon watches Martin go, hoping Leah is right ...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S BEDROOM- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon sits at his desk, calling Martin and watching a MUTED VIDEO someone has posted to the CREEKSECRETSTUMBLRof Martin's big speech under the headline GRIZZLY GROVELSFOR LOVE. Simon grimaces, feeling bad for Martin in spite of himself,</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN (ON PHONE)</character>
    <dialogue>You've reached Martin, leave me a message.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>{bad jokey message) Oh no you didn't, mother-- BEEEEEP.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Martin, it's Simon. I'm sorry about tonight. Call me, okay?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon hangs up, worried about Martin.</scene_description>
    <character>NORA (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>She's here!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S HOUSE - ENTRYWAY</stage_direction>
    <character>- MOMENTSLATER</character>
    <dialogue>Everyone excitedly greets Alice, home from college for Christmas break.</dialogue>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>You're supposed to gain the freshman fifteen, not lose the freshman twenty!</dialogue>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>You are literally insane.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>She looks fat to me.</dialogue>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>That's not funny, Jack!</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I think you look the exact same weight. But a foot shorter.</dialogue>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>I missed you, bub.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon and Alice HUG. Everything seems a little better to Simon with Alice around.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S LIVING ROOM- LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Jack passes out mulled cider for the family as Alice tells them all about college.</scene_description>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>I mean, I get being comfortable with your body but my roommate is always naked ...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Alice fades into the background as Simon checks his phone: a new e-mail from Blue. He steps away to read it and we ... CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. BLUE'S BEDROOM- NIGHT (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Blue writes an e-mail as he packs a duffel bag. We're back to anonymous Blue, shot so we never see his face.</scene_description>
    <character>BLUE (V .0.)</character>
    <dialogue>I'm drinking eggnog and packing to go to my dad's cabin on Lake Rabun. I'm pretty sure there's a photo of it on the Wikipedia page for "middle of nowhere."</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon pauses. Something about this sounds familiar. The wheels in his head begin to turn ... FLASHBACKTO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>HIGH SCHOOL- AUDITORIUM- DAY (FLASHBACK) Cal tells the Oliver cast:</scene_description>
    <character>CAL</character>
    <dialogue>I'm going to an unheated vacation house basically in the middle of nowhere.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>BACK TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon connects the dots. Could Cal be Blue?</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Holy shit.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He starts imagining ... CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. LAKE RABUNCABIN - DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cal and his DAD (the same guy as Lyle's Father) pull up to a very rustic cabin on a beautiful Georgia lake.</scene_description>
    <character>CAL (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>There's barely electricity and definitely no cell service, so this will be my last e-mail for a while.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. LAKE RABUN- DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cal and his DAD are bundled up on a boat, fishing.</scene_description>
    <character>CAL (V .O.)</character>
    <dialogue>It should be a real rite of passage though: a dad and his gay son pretending they like fishing and trying to find things to talk about · for two weeks.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cal's Dad looks like he's about to say something, then reconsiders, and takes a sip of beer.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CAL'S BEDROOM- NIGHT (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cal continues to pack.</scene_description>
    <character>CAL (V .O.)</character>
    <dialogue>She and Him's cover of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" just came on Spotify. I know I should think it's too twee, but I kind of love it. Don't judge me. And have yourself a merry little Christmas, Jacques.</dialogue>
    <character>CAL ( V . 0 � ) ( CONT' D )</character>
    <dialogue>Don't judge me for that lame segue either. God, it's going to be an excruciating two weeks without you. Love, Blue.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>INT, SIMON'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT Simon finishes the e-mail. She and Him's "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" kicks in and the song carries us into a SEQUENCE.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. GROCERY STORE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon and his entire family pile a cart full of their favorite holiday foods. They pass the CANDY AISLE where Simon sees Cal putting a PACK OF REESE'S CUPS into his basket. He smiles at Simon. But then suddenly, he's gone. Just Simon's imagination.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S DINING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Denise serves everyone FRENCH TOAST for dinner, a Spier family tradition. Simon looks past his family to a SPRIG OF MISTLETOE hanging above a doorway. He imagines CAL STANDING BENEATH IT. Cal gestures at the mistletoe, like should we kiss? INT, SIMON'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT Simon and his family watch Love Actually. Jack and Denise snuggle on the couch. Nora and Alice are sprawled out on the floor. Suddenly, an ARM wraps itself around Simon. He looks over to find Cal curled up next to him. Cal puts his head on Simon's shoulder. Alice playfully tosses a pillow at them. Denise offers Cal a glass of cider. Everything is perfect. Simon reaches for a cookie on the coffee table, and when he sits back, CAL IS GONE.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon is wrapping presents. There's a KNOCK on his door.</scene_description>
    <character>NORA (0. S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Simon?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon throws a towel over the presents.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Come in.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nora enters with her iPad. She sits on the edge of Simon's bed and brings her knees to her chest like a little kid.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Well? What do you want?</dialogue>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <dialogue>I need to show you something.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nora turns her laptop around. The Creeksecrets Turnblr page is already open. Simon's face goes white: Because there's a new entry: SIMON SPIER'S OPEN INVITATION TO ALL DUDES, Martin's SCREENSHOTof Simon and Blue's e-mails, accompanied by a short post. As Simon reads ..• CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MARTIN'S BEDROOM- NIGHT (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A vindictive Martin speaks directly to camera.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN {V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Dear all dudes of Creekwood, with this missive, I hereby declare that I am supremely gay and open for business. Interested parties may contact me directly to discuss arrangements for anal butt sex. Strong resemblance to Jon Snow preferred. Ladies need not apply. Homosexually yours, Simon Spier.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>BACK TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon sits frozen in place, Nora stares at him intently.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Oh my god.</dialogue>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <dialogue>I already reported it. They'll take it down.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Everyone has already seen it though.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It's true. I'm gay.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nora is stunned. But she tries not to make a big deal of it.</scene_description>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <dialogue>Oh.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>So what are you gonna do now?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I don't know.</dialogue>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <dialogue>You could deny it--</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I'm not going to deny it. I'm not ashamed--</dialogue>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <dialogue>Well, you haven't said anything until now, so--</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(snapping)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>So what? What the hell are you talking about?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nora's face crumples into tears. Simon realizes she's completely overwhelmed.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Nora, I--</dialogue>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <dialogue>It's not my fault!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She hurries out in tears. Simon feels bad but he has bigger things to worry about. He goes to his computer in a total panic. He furiously types an e-mail to Blue:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V. 0, )</character>
    <dialogue>I know you're going off the grid and you probably won't see this until you're back, but something's happened. You're going to find out who I am. But please don't freak out and stop writing to me. Please, Blue. As soon as you get this, I need you to promise me you won't disappear.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon hits SEND, close to hyperventilating. His phone BUZZES. Then BUZZES again. He checks it - texts from his friends: Abby: Are you okay? Leah: Can you call me? Nick: Hey dude. Wanna go for a walk? Abby: Simon, please call me. I love you. Simon turns off his phone, unable to deal. He turns off the lights, crawls under his bed covers, puts a pillow over his face, and SCREAMS.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SPIER LIVING ROOM- MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Christmas morning. The whole family sits around the tree, opening presents in pajamas. Nora and Simon avoid each other's eyes.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(opening a gift)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>A Kindle case? But I don't even have--</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Open the next one, Sherlock.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon opens the next one, revealing a brand new KINDLE. He stares at it for a long time.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Um, if you don't like it, you can return it. But since you already have every other device--</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(quietly)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No . I love it.</dialogue>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>Are you okay?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nora gives Simon a supportive smile.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Actually, I want to talk to you guys about something.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Denise leans in, realizing something's up.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>What is it?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But Simon can't find the words.</scene_description>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Lemme guess. You got someone pregnant. No, you're gay. No, you're pregnant.</dialogue>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <dialogue>Dad, stop it.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(quietly)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yeah, I'm pregnant.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>I knew it! What'd I tell you, he's got the glow.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nobody laughs. Simon looks like he really wants to run out of the room and throw up, but he forces himself to continue.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>No. I'm not pregnant.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(deep breath, then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm gay.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A beat as everyone takes in his words. Denise reaches out to take Simon's hand.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, honey.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares into his mother's eyes. His voice is shaking.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Don't worry, I'm still me.</dialogue>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>What? Of course you are.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon nods, unsure. Alice puts her arm around Simon's leg from her spot on the floor.</scene_description>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>Good for you, Bub.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Everyone turns to Jack, waiting for him to say something.</scene_description>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Gay, huh?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then, forced brightness)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>So which one of them did it?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Alice looks like she's going to kill her father.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Did what?</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Which one of your old girlfriends turned you off women? Was it the one with the eyebrows or the overbite?</dialogue>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Jack--</dialogue>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <dialogue>JESUS CHRIS, DAD! CAN YOU</dialogue>
    <character>EVER JUST SHUT THE HELL UP!?</character>
    <dialogue>Everyone turns to Nora, stunned. Simon sighs, exhausted.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SIMON'S BACKYARD- LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>In the far reaches of the yard, Simon lays in a hammock with Bieber the dog. He listens to music and stares up at the clouds. He checks his e-mail: nothing from Blue. Alice approaches.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(groaning)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No, go away.</dialogue>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>No.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then, holds up Oreos)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I have Eggnog Oreos. They're disgusting. I've had fifteen.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon doesn't say anything. But he does take out his earbuds. Alice climbs into the hammock.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Just don't tell mom I'm out here.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They're quiet for a moment. Finally:</scene_description>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>I have a boyfriend.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>This actually manages to snap Simon out of his daze.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>What?</dialogue>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>His name's Theo. He's a junior majoring in classical guitar. And he has this weird facial hair on his chin that I should totally hate but I inexplicably find cute.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, god . Like a soul patch?</dialogue>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>Ughh, yeah. It's the worst. I love it.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>What's happening right now? You hate talking about your personal life.</dialogue>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>I know. But I figure if you have the guts to admit you're gay .••</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You should have the guts to admit you're straight.</dialogue>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>You're funny.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I try.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They lie next to each other in silence. It's the least excruciating moment of Simon's day. He eats a cookie.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, these are awful.</dialogue>
    <character>ALICE</character>
    <dialogue>I know.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They both reach for another. Denise calls out from inside:</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Simon, Nick's here!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon looks nervous. Alice gives him an encouraging arm squeeze.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SIMON'S FRONT PORCH - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon steps outside to find Nick pacing back and forth. He immediately, nervously launches into a pre-rehearsed speech:</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Hey. You weren't answering any of our texts and we're worried about you. And since I'm the only one of your best friends lame enough to be spending the holidays stuck in Shady Creek, we decided I should come check in. I have no idea if that post is true, but if it is--</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>It is.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Wow. Okay. Do you want to talk about it?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Not really.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Cool. Cool. What should we talk about?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I don't know.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They stand in silence for a moment. Finally:</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Oh. So, Leah and I shut it down before she left for her grandparents. You were dead wrong about us. Zero chemistry.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon cringes, worried for Leah.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Oh. Sorry. Is she okay?</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, of course. It was totally mutual.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon nods, unsure whether to believe him. After another silence:</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(then, remembering)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, here. I got you this. For Christmas.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He hands Simon at-shirt. Simon unfolds it, to reveal it says WORLD'S GREATEST FRIEND, in the style of the WORLD'S GREATEST DAD tee Nick was wearing before.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(proud)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>This one I actually bought.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You are such a nerd.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But Simon's clearly very touched.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Yup, Wanna go for a drive?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Actually, I kind of just want to be alone.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Nah, let's go for a drive.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Nick-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But Nick's already bounding towards his car. Simon sighs and follows after him. INT, NICK'S MOM'S PRIUS / ATLANTA HIGHWAY - NIGHT Nick and Simon joyride down the highway, singing/screaming along to Rihanna.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>He said me haffi-</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Work, work, work, work, work, work!</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>He see me do me-</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Dirt, dirt, dirt, dirt, dirt, dirt!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon can't help but grin as the tension of the past couple of days start to melt away.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. / EXT. PRIUS / THE ATLANTAEAGLE - LATE AFTERNOON</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Nick parks on a Midtown Atlanta street. Simon is confused.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Where are we going?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon follows Nick's gaze out the window and realizes they're parked outside of a dive bar with a rainbow flag above its entrance. Simon turns back to Nick, sees the guilty look on his face and realizes:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You are insane. No way.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Come on. This place had great reviews on Yelp, They're known for their ribs!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at the bar. He is curious.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Okay. But how are we getting in?</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>I don't see anyone checking IDs ..•</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. THE ATLANTAEAGLE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Nick and Simon enter a dimly lit space with motorcycle themed decor. A crowd of older, stocky DUDES wearing lots of leather drink and dance. This is definitely not Simon's scene. Simon watches two guys his dad's age AGGRESSIVELY MAKINGOUT in a dark corner.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Uh, should we try the ribs?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(terrified)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I guess.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A HAIRY GUY in a LEATHER VEST notices Simon's discomfort.</scene_description>
    <character>HAIRY GUY</character>
    <dialogue>You might want to try Joe's.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Let's try Joe's.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. JOE'S ON JUNIPER - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Another gay bar/restaurant with a younger crowd - lots of attractive college-age kids, a DJ spinning Calvin Harris. Simon and Nick sit at a table eating fries.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>I think that guy is checking me out.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You have said that about every single guy.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>I can't help it. The gays love me.</dialogue>
    <character>CUTE GUY (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Alex?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon spins around to come face to face with a boyish CUTE GUY with cool hair and skinny jeans.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I'm not-</dialogue>
    <character>CUTE GUY</character>
    <dialogue>You're not Alex. Sorry, you have Alex hair.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(nervous)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Is that, um, a good thing?</dialogue>
    <character>CUTE GUY</character>
    <dialogue>It's literally the only good thing about Alex. Do you want to dance?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon hesitates. Nick is grinning like an idiot, beyond excited by how well this is going.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Yes. Yes, he does.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon's head is exploding with excitement and nerves. He's in a public place and an attractive guy is hitting on him. The Cute Guy takes Simon's hand and leads him out to the dance floor. They awkwardly dance for a moment, before the Cute Guy turns to a passing WAITER.</scene_description>
    <character>CUTE GUY</character>
    <dialogue>Two shots of Patron please.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(nervous)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, actually-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The WAITER eyes Simon skeptically.</scene_description>
    <character>WAITER</character>
    <dialogue>I'm gonna need to see some ID.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Off Simon, at a loss ..•</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. JOE'S ON JUNIPER - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon and Nick are escorted out of the bar by a SECURITY GUY. Nick feels awful.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>I'm really sorry, man. I dragged you all the way out here so you could get humiliated in front of the first guy who ever asked you to dance. Please don't let this traumatize you-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon throws his arms around Nick, exhilarated by their disastrous night and incredibly grateful for his friendship,</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Thank you, I love you, man.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No homo.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nick and Simon burst out laughing.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon sits at his computer, writing to Blue:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Dear Blue, happy New Year's Eve. I haven't heard from you, so I'm going to assume slash pray it's because you have no service, and not that you've decided it's too risky to keep e-mailing your innermost feelings to a guy who doesn't know how to log out of Gmail.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(deep breath, then)</parenthetical>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>I came out to my entire family on Christmas. And now, everything is different.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. SIMON'S CAR/ WAFFLEHOUSE- DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon pulls up to the window to get his order.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON ( V � 0 � )</character>
    <dialogue>It's not like my life has become one big pride parade.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I got the iced coffee.</dialogue>
    <character>WAFFLEHOUSE GUY</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah you did, boy!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>WAFFLE HOUSE GUY hits PLAY on a BOOMBOXand it BLASTS Lady Gaga's "Born This Way". Waffle House Guy throws a bunch of RAINBOW CONFETTI in Simon's face. Then puts a pair of RAINBOW SUNGLASSES on him. Simon spits some of the confetti out of his mouth. BACKTO REALITY:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. /EXT.SIMON'S CAR/ WAFFLEHOUSE DRIVE THRU - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>(FLASHBACK) Simon pulls up to get his order.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I got the iced coffee.</dialogue>
    <character>WAFFLE HOUSE GUY</character>
    <parenthetical>(hands him coffee, bored)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Have a Waffle-icious day.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon drives away.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V .0.)</character>
    <dialogue>It's the little things.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S HOUSE - DAY (FLASHBACK)</stage_direction>
    <character>SIMON (V. 0. )</character>
    <dialogue>Like the way my mom watches me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon and his entire family wear HAPPY NEW YEAR HATS and watch Anderson Cooper host a New Year's Eve celebration on television. He realizes his mom is STARING at him. She quickly looks back at the television when Simon catches her.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V. 0. )</character>
    <dialogue>Or the awkward physical affection my dad has started to exhibit for the first time ever.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Jack reaches out and makes the bizarre choice to pat Simon on the cheek. BACKTO PRESENT: INT, SIMON'S ROOM- DAY Simon continues his e-mail at his desk.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Don't get me wrong, there are good parts too. My friend even took me to my first gay bar. It was terrible and great at the same time.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>INT, SIMON'S BEDROOM- NIGHT A pajaroa'd Simon packs his bag for school the next day.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON ( V . 0 , )</character>
    <dialogue>But change is exhausting. And I feel like there's nowhere to hide from all the new-ness of everything. Except here. With you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon sets his alarm and climbs into bed.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON ( V. 0 � )</character>
    <dialogue>Please write to me. As soon as you get even one bar of service. Love, Jacques.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon clicks out the light.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S BEDROOM- MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon's alarm wakes him up. It's 7:00 AM. He immediately checks his e-mail. Nothing new from Blue.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S BATHROOM- MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon gets ready for his first day of school as an out gay kid. QUICK CUTS as he tries on a bunch of different T- shirts, then one tight tank top. He looks at his reflection like, what am I doing?</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon crosses through, wearing a typical hoodie. He's visibly nervous.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Si, have some breakfast.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon makes a beeline for the door.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I really can't eat right now--</dialogue>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Wait.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Denise turns on what is clearly her "therapist voice."</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>This is going to be a time of real exploration for you. Sexual and emotional feelings you've been repressing for a long time are going to come to the--</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(pained)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Morn.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Denise realizes Simon doesn't need a therapist right now. And frankly, she doesn't feel like being one.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Sorry.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Have I ever told you about your first day of pre-school?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Mom--</dialogue>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>I was so nervous you were gonna fall apart when we dropped you off, You loved being home with your baby sister so much.</dialogue>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>And you'd never been without me or dad for more than a couple hours.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat, then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But we walked in and you took in all the kids playing and you proclaimed, "Hello everybody. I'm Simon Spier and I'm here!" And that's when I realized, my son is brave.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon can't meet her eyes. He's not feeling very brave. Denise's voice is filled with defiant emotion:</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>So today, you go in there, and you remember you're Simon Spier. And you say, "Hello everyone. I'm here."</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon and Denise share an emotional look. Then:</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <parenthetical>(trying to lighten the mood)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But don't actually say that. That'd be weird.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon forces a smile and leaves. We hang on Denise, her smile fading. She could not look more worried for her son.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. /EXT.SIMON'S CAR/ SHADY CREEK STREETS - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon pulls up in front of Nick's house. He's surprised to see Abby, Nick, and Leah standing on Nick's front porch. Simon gets out of the car ...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. NICK'S HOUSE - DAY - CONTINUOUS</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>... And approaches his friends.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, guys. Sorry I've been MIA. Thanks for all the texts.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(re: Nick)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And for sending the friendship ambassador over to check in.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon smiles at them. To his surprise, nobody smiles back. Nick clears his throat.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Simon, we need to talk.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon realizes that Leah looks very emotional. And Abby looks very angry.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Abby and I hooked up on New Year's Eve. And now we're like, together.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(nervous)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Wow. That's awesome.</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah. It is. But then we got to talking about why it took us so long.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon goes white. He knows where this is going and he tries to get ahead of it.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>You guys--</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Why did tell Abby I had an ex- girlfriend who I cheated on?</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>And why did you tell Nick I hooked up with a ton of jacked black guys at my old school?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They stare at him, really hoping he has a great answer. Simon takes a deep breath. He attempts to explain himself.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Martin's the one who wrote on the Creeksecrets post about me. He screenshotted those e-mails and he's been using them to blackmail me for months.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nick, Leah, and Abby look horrified. But then ...</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>What does that have to do with us?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(pained)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>He said if I didn't help him get with Abby, he'd out me. So I had to ... keep you guys apart.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nick and Abby absorb this ...</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>So you made up a bunch of lies?</dialogue>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(realizing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh my god. That's why you convinced me to go out with Leah? To keep me away from Abby?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>It takes all of Simon's effort to look at Leah. She looks back, overcome with sadness and hurt.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <parenthetical>(slowly understanding)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>So us running lines at Waffle House? And beer pong at Bram's party? All of that was you trying to pawn me off on Martin?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon nods, beyond embarrassed. Abby is livid.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>I'm not a piece of meat, Simon.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I know. I'm sorry.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>I would never do anything like that to you. I would never try and stop you from being happy,</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I know.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A horrible, quiet moment. Then:</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>We're gonna be late for school. I'll drive.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nick takes Abby's hand and they head towards his car. Leah hangs back a moment, like she wants to say something to Simon.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Leah, please. You have to understand •••</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She shakes her head and follows Nick and Abby. Simon stares after them, devastated.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>HIGH SCHOOL- LOBBY - DAY Simon enters school, bracing himself for what's next in this shitty day. He comes face to face with ••. Life as usual. Students get books out of their lockers, hurry to class. No one really looks twice at him. Maybe this won't be so bad after all. And then Mr. Worth passes by and points to a RAINBOWFLAG PIN on his lapel.</scene_description>
    <character>MR. WORTH</character>
    <parenthetical>(in solidarity)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I got you, buddy. Tolerance: it's what's for dinner.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon looks uncomfortable. And we begin a SEQUENCEas Simon experiences his first day as an openly gay student.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>HIGH SCHOOL- MATHCLASS - DAY Simon sits in class. He notices Martin staring at him from his desk. As soon as Simon catches Martin's eye, Martin looks away, ashamed. INT, CREEKWOOD HIGH SCHOOL- HALLWAY- DAY A SENIOR GIRL who has never spoken to Simon corners him.</scene_description>
    <character>SENIOR GIRL</character>
    <dialogue>We need to be best friends. First things first: I'm getting a haircut tomorrow and I'm thinking bangs. Please weigh in.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon just stares at her, clueless.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>HIGH SCHOOL- BOY'S ROOM- DAY Simon washes his hands. A PIMPLY FACED KID washes his hands at the next sink.</scene_description>
    <character>PIMPLY FACED KID</character>
    <dialogue>Can you pass a paper towel?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon hands him a towel. Their hands briefly touch.</scene_description>
    <character>PIMPLY FACED KID</character>
    <dialogue>I'm straight.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>HIGH SCHOOL- GYM- DAY A STONER comes up to Simon during volleyball.</scene_description>
    <character>STONER</character>
    <dialogue>My second cousin is trans.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon doesn't know what to do with this information.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Cool?</dialogue>
    <character>STONER</character>
    <dialogue>Pre-op .</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Thanks for letting me know.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - MATH CLASS - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The Math Teacher drones on. A GOSSIPY GIRL leans over and whispers to Simon:</scene_description>
    <character>GOSSIPY GIRL</character>
    <dialogue>So, are you a top or a bottom?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon just stares at her, quietly furious.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CREEKWOODHIGH - COURTYARD- DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon eats lunch alone on a bench. A FRESHMAN DUDE comes up to him.</scene_description>
    <character>FRESHMAN DUDE</character>
    <dialogue>Is it because you don't like the way pussy smells? I don't either. But that doesn't make me gay, right?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at him, annoyed. The Dude takes his silence to mean "Yes, you're gay."</scene_description>
    <character>FRESHMAN DUDE</character>
    <parenthetical>(panicking)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Actually, I do like the way it smells.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH - GYM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon plays volleyball. The Stoner re-approaches him.</scene_description>
    <character>STONER</character>
    <dialogue>I forgot to tell you that my cousin started hormones.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I don't care, Evan! I don't know your cousin!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>HIGH - HALLWAY- DAY The Senior Girl rambles on to Simon.</scene_description>
    <character>SENIOR GIRL</character>
    <dialogue>Jennifer Lawrence pulls off that look, but she has a really symmetrical face, and my left eye is actually bigger than my right. Maybe just highlights?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Off Simon . . . HIGH SCHOOL- AUDITORIUM - LATER</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>We're mid-dress rehearsal. The cast performs "I'd Do Anything", actually nailing the choreography, Cal and Ms, Albright excitedly watch from the front row. As Simon dances onstage, he can't help but stare at Cal, searching for any sign that he's Blue. But Cal's focused on the performance, impossible to read.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <parenthetical>(singing as Fagin)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Would you rob a shop?</dialogue>
    <character>ENSEMBLE</character>
    <dialogue>Anything!</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Would you risk the--</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Suddenly, Martin stops singing. Everyone follows his gaze to the back of the auditorium, where TWO IDIOT JOCKS have entered. One is dressed in a SHAGGYWIG and GREY HOODIE, just like Simon. The other is wearing his FOOTBALL JERSEY.</scene_description>
    <character>IDIOT JOCK IN JERSEY</character>
    <dialogue>This one's for you, Spier!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He hits a button on his JAMBOXand Ice Cube's You Can Do It plays: "You can do it put your back into it! I can do it put your ass into itl" The Jock dressed as Simon gets down on his hands and knees, and the Jock in the jersey starts humping his butt, simulating anal sex.</scene_description>
    <character>IDIOT JOCK IN JERSEY</character>
    <dialogue>You like that big dick, don't you Spier?</dialogue>
    <character>IDIOT DRESSED AS SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, yeah! Give it to me, big boy! Simon likey!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at them, stone-faced. This all seems unreal. He notices Abby's eyes are locked on the jocks, burning with rage. But she refuses to make eye contact with Simon. Suddenly, Taylor CHARGESdown the aisle towards the guys.</scene_description>
    <character>TAYLOR</character>
    <dialogue>Get out of here you ignorant pieces of-</dialogue>
    <character>IDIOT JOCK IN JERSEY</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, shiiiit!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The two guys run out of the auditorium, Taylor in hot pursuit. There's muffled shouting from the hallway. Ms. Albright races after them, calling back to the cast:</scene_description>
    <character>MS. ALBRIGHT</character>
    <dialogue>I'll be right back.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Everyone sinks to the ground, shell-shocked. Martin covers his face with his hands. Ms. Albright returns with a still-fuming Taylor. Simon remains stiff with shock and discomfort.</scene_description>
    <character>MS. ALBRIGHT</character>
    <dialogue>I'm sorry you guys had to see that. Today's rehearsal is cancelled,</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Everyone slowly gets up and heads out. Cal gives Simon a sad smile as he passes. But it's impossible to tell if he's Blue or if he's just being supportive. After a moment, Simon turns to Taylor:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Um, thanks. And I'm sorry. About missing a rehearsal. I know how much this means to you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Taylor stares at him, surprised.</scene_description>
    <character>TAYLOR</character>
    <dialogue>It's just a play, Simon.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Fuck those guys.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He nods, surprised by this other side of Taylor. As Abby passes Simon, she gives him a stoic:</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>I'm sorry. That was messed up.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But doesn't stop walking. Ms. Albright approaches Simon.</scene_description>
    <character>MS� ALBRIGHT</character>
    <dialogue>Are you okay?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(mortified)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yes. I'm sorry.</dialogue>
    <character>MS. ALBRIGHT</character>
    <dialogue>Don't you dare be sorry. None of this is your fault. Those assholes are getting suspended. I will make it my hill to die on.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at her, amazed by her candor. He realizes she's doing her best to stay calm, but is absolutely furious. Which makes him feel a little better. Then, Mr. Worth storms in with the two idiot jocks in tow. The color drains from Simon's face.</scene_description>
    <character>MR. WORTH</character>
    <dialogue>Simon, Devon and Carl have something to say to you.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>No. That's okay--</dialogue>
    <character>MR. WORTH</character>
    <dialogue>No, it's not okay. Boys?</dialogue>
    <character>IDIOT JOCK IN JERSEY</character>
    <dialogue>Sorry.</dialogue>
    <character>IDIOT DRESSED AS SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>My bad.</dialogue>
    <character>MR. WORTH</character>
    <dialogue>At Creekwood High we believe in tolerance. Which means, we respect Simon's choice to love another man.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As Mr. Worth drones on, the Jocks can barely contain their snickers. Off Simon, completely humiliated ...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>HIGH SCHOOL - NIGHT Simon approaches his car to find Martin standing there. He is the last person Simon wants to see.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, can we talk?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>All Simon wants is to get as far away from Creek:wood High as possible.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I don't have anything to say to you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon reaches for the car door, but Martin is in the way.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Martin--</dialogue>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>I just wanted to say that I'm sorry. I didn't know that would - I didn't think people still did shit like that.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at Martin, stone-faced.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>I was pissed off about Abby and I wasn't thinking. I didn't think it would be a big thing.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin struggles to collect his thoughts.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <dialogue>The whole thing with my brother ... Ever since he came out, my parents have turned our house into a gay utopia. But Carter's in college, he's not even home. We marched in the Pride Parade this year and he wasn't even there. It was my idea. When I told Carter about it, he was like, "Urn, okay, cool." Like it was a little much. I felt like a total asshole. It doesn't matter. Will you please say something?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon closes his eyes for a moment. Finally:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>I don't care about your brother, Martin. Or how him corning out made you feel.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(shaking with rage)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And I don't care if you didn't think my coming out would be "a big thing." You don't get to decide that. I'm supposed to decide when and where and who knows and how I want to say it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon's voice cracks. He shakes away the emotion, refusing to let Martin see him break down.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Can you please just move away from my car and leave me the fuck alone?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A devastated Martin walks off into the night. Simon gets in his car, locks the doors, and punches his steering wheel with rage.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon is pulling on his pajamas, totally exhausted from the day, when his computer BINGS. He races over and checks his e- mail - Blue! Simon nervously opens the message and begins to read:</scene_description>
    <character>CAL (V,O.)</character>
    <dialogue>You're right, I know who you are.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH - AUDITORIUM - DAY (SIMON'S FANTASY)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cal stands center stage, staring straight into camera.</scene_description>
    <character>CAL</character>
    <dialogue>Jacques a dit, right?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. PARIS - LUXEMBOURGPARK - DAY (FLASHBACK)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>EIGHT-YEAR-OLDSIMON and his family are on a Parisian vacation. The framed photo in Simon's room that inspired his pseudonym "Jacques" was taken on this trip. A group of FRENCH KIDS play "Jacques a dit" in the park.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>Jacques a dit is what they call Simon Says in French. Just like you, kiddo.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Off Young Simon •.. BACK TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon stands there reading the e-mail.</scene_description>
    <character>CAL (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>I'm sorry, Simon. I can't do this anymore. I'm so sorry.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at his computer in dazed shock. He hurriedly writes back:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V. 0. )</character>
    <dialogue>Please, Blue. You can't leave me alone. Everything's falling apart.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And hits send. A beat, then his computer BINGS again with a response from MAILER DAEMON.</scene_description>
    <character>AUTOMATEDVOICE (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Delivery to the recipient bluegreenll8@gmail.com failed permanently.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Blue deleted the account. Simon stares at the word "permanently" for a beat, as he realizes Blue shut down the account. Then, he slams his computer shut. He notices the WORLD'S GREATEST FRIEND t-shirt Nick gave him, strewn on a chair. And it's all just too much. He picks up the shirt, buries his head in it, and begins to sob.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - LOCKERS</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cal is putting books in his locker. Simon walks up to him. He's bleary eyed, clearly having been up most of the night.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Hey.</dialogue>
    <character>CAL</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, what's up?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon takes a deep breath. Then , in a shaky voice:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Is it you?</dialogue>
    <character>CAL</character>
    <parenthetical>(confused)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Is what me?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at him for a long beat. Then:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(barely audible)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Blue?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cal looks uncomfortable.</scene_description>
    <character>CAL</character>
    <dialogue>Simon, are you okay? I know you've had a crazy couple days. Do you wanna talk about it? I can skip Bio, I'm failing anyway.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cal gives him a friendly smile. Simon stares at him. It's clear to him that Cal is not Blue after all. After a moment:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>No. It's okay. I'm okay. Sorry to bother you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon hurries away, embarrassed. Elliott Smith kicks in, coming from the stereo of ...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT, /EXT.SIMON'S CAR/ WAFFLE HOUSE DRIVE THRU - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Where Simon gets an after school iced coffee for one.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. /EXT.SIMON'S CAR/ SHADY CREEK STREETS - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon drives home alone, passing a field where WORKERS are setting up CARNIVAL RIDES, including an OLD FERRIS WHEEL,</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. /EXT.SIMON'S CAR/ CREEKWOODSTREETS - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon turns onto his street when he spots Leah on her bike. He makes a decision, rolls down his window and slows down so he's driving next to her.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Can we talk?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off her silence)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Leah, please. I know what I did was messed up. I knew you were in love with Nick and I--</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Stop it!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah pulls her bike over. Simon parks, gets out, approaches. Leah closes her eyes and lowers her voice:</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>You are insanely stupid, Simon. I was never in love with Nick.</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I was in love with you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah angrily brushes away tears. Simon stares at her, totally blindsided.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>What? But we're ... us .</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, well. Sorry.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon doesn't know what to say.</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>I thought you were into Abby. And then when you told me I should go out with Nick, I realized you were never gonna see me that way.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah takes a deep breath then presses on:</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>I can deal with you being gay.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But you set me up to get my heart broken when you thought I was in love with Nick. And that makes you cruel.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon has never felt worse in his young life.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Leah, please. I was desperate.</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>I know, you didn't want anyone to know you were gay--</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>No, it wasn't just that. I fell in love with someone. The guy in the e-mails, I love him. And I knew if Martin leaked our e-mails it would scare him off. I've been so lonely for so long. And and with him, I didn't feel lonely ••.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon trails off. Leah softens, starting to forgive Simon ..</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>I'm sorry.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>No, I'm sorry. It's not an excuse. You're my best friend.</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>If I'm your best friend, why did you come out to Abby and not me?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon considers.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>It was easier. I've known Abby for three months. I've known you for thirteen years. And I knew that once I told you, everything would be different. And I loved things the way they were.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah nods. These two can feel their friendship changing before their very eyes. And it hurts. But they know they need to try and embrace it. So:</scene_description>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Tell me about this guy you love.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon hesitates.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Are you sure?</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, It'll help me kill off Hetero Simon in my mind.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Well, you don't have to kill him off--</dialogue>
    <character>LEAH</character>
    <dialogue>He's dead, Si. Hacking him up with a mental machete as we speak.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Fair enough. So, I call him Blue.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah forces a smile. And we leave these two, trying to adjust to their new normal ...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. /EXT.JACK'S CAR/ SHADYCREEK STREETS - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Jack and Simon drive home with THAI FOOD in uncomfortable silence.</scene_description>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Thanks for coming with me to pick up the food.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Mhmm.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>If I get one more ticket for double parking outside Wakdongmoonlek Noodle, we can't afford to send you to college.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon forces a smile. It's clearly still awkward between these two. Jack presses on,</scene_description>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Excited for the show tomorrow night?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Uh huh.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>Morn and Nora and I are really looking forward to it.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat, then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You gonna go to the carnival after?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Yup.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <parenthetical>(forcing conversation)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I've always loved the winter carnival. One of my favorite Shady Creek traditions.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon nods. Another awkward silence. Then:</scene_description>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>So, that Sam Smith guy is pretty cool, huh?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at his dad, worried about where this is going •••</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Uh huh.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>I've actually been really into his tunes lately.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Jack hits the STEREO and Sam Smith's S~ay With Me begins to play. Jack awkwardly bobs along with it.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Dad, did you tee up a gay singer just to talk to me about being gay?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Jack sighs, frustrated with himself. He turns off the music. Simon notices his hand is trembling a little,</scene_description>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <parenthetical>(quietly)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm sorry, Si. For all the gay jokes.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>It's fine.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <parenthetical>(firmly)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No. It' s not.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Jack sounds so angry and ashamed with himself. Simon realizes how much he's been beating himself up.</scene_description>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>I'm just going to put this out there, in case the message got lost somewhere. I love you. A lot.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And I'm really proud of you.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(re: proud)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Why?</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>For coming out on your terms. You really took control of your destiny.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares out the window. He couldn't possibly feel in less control of his destiny. Jack clears his throat. After a beat:</scene_description>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <dialogue>So, are there any special guys--</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon turns back on Sam Smith. Jack gets the message.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S ROOM - MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon lies in bed, wide awake. He clicks on the light, goes to his desk, navigates to the Creeksecrets Twnblr. He grabs an Eggnog Oreo from a nearby pack, clicks on NEW POST, and begins to TYPE.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Dear Students of Creekwood High School, As anyone with a half- decent data plan already knows, a recent post on this very website declared that I was gay. The delivery left something to desired, but the message is true. I am. Gay.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - FRONT STEPS - THE NEXT MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Students head into school, glued to their phones. Everyone is reading Simon's post.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>For a long time, I was bending over backwards to hide that fact. I had all these reasons. It was unfair that only gay people had to come out. I was sick of change. But the truth is, I was terrified.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - HALLWAY- DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Ms. Albright readsSimon's post on her phone as an EAGER DRAMA STUDENT hangs an OLIVER: TONIGHT! banner. The Student checks with Ms. Albright for approval, but she's totally focused on her phone.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Announcing who you are to the world is terrifying. Because ... what if the world doesn't like you?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - COURTYARD- DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Nick and Abby read Simon's post as they sip iced coffees on a bench.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>So, I did whatever I could to keep my secret. I hurt people. I hurt the best, most important people. I want them to know that I'm sorry.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>I'm sorrier than I've ever been about anything in my life.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL- EMPTY ART CLASS - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Leah has stopped SKETCHINGA DRESS to read Simon's post.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V .0.)</character>
    <dialogue>And I want everyone to know that from this point forward, I aro. done being terrified.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Leah smiles, proud of Simon.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT, / EXT. SIMON'S CAR/ CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon pulls into a parking spot. He takes a deep breath and gets out of the car to face his school. INT, CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL- LOBBY- DAY Simon heads to his locker. He's met with nods of recognition, a few pats on the back, a fist pound. He shyly accepts it all, a little overwhelmed by the attention.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>I'm done living in a world where I don't get to be who I am.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And I'm done living in a world where I don't get to have a great love story.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>INT, CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - DAY Nora stands at her locker, reading the post on her phone.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V, 0, )</character>
    <dialogue>Disclaimer: this is about to get romantic as eff, so anyone averse to gratuitous feelings, kindly click over to a Buzzfeed quiz or resume the porn you paused to read this.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Nora smiles. Mr. Worth notices Nora on her phone and beckons for it. She stares him down. He gives her a "never mind" gesture and hurries away. Nora sends an e-mail on her phone ••.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. ALICE'S BARD DORM ROOM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Alice sits on her bed, eating Oreos and studying. Her phone dings and she looks at it. Nora has forwarded her Simon's post, She starts to read.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O,)</character>
    <dialogue>This guy that I love once wrote that he felt like he was stuck on a ferris wheel. On top of the world one minute, at rock bottom the next. That's how I feel now. I couldn't ask for better friends. A more understanding family. But none of it means anything if I can't share it with him.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Alice's SOUL PATCHED BOYFRIEND enters from the next room and sits down on the bed. She leans into him as she continues reading.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - AUDITORIUM - LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>We're at the end of the Oliver performance. The entire company BOWS to a STANDING OVATION.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O,)</character>
    <dialogue>So, guy I love, after the play tonight, at 10:00, you know where I'll be.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon scans the crowd, looking at all the HIGH SCHOOL GUYS in the audience, wondering if any of them are Blue. If he'll ever find out who Blue is.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>There's no pressure for you to show up. Just because I can't wait a second longer to grand gesture the crap out of you doesn't mean you have to be ready for all that.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOODHIGH SCHOOL - OUTSIDE AUDITORIUM - LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon receives FLOWERS from his family after the show. Nora gives him a big hug, proud of him for his Creeksecrets post. Simon looks around and sees lots of STRAIGHT COUPLES congratulating each other and kissing. Sure, he's surrounded by people who love him, but he feels very much alone.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V .O.)</character>
    <dialogue>But I hope you are. Because you deserve a great love story too. And I sure would like to meet you.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SIMON'S BEDROOM- THE NIGHT BEFORE</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon finishes writing his post.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (V.</character>
    <dialogue>Sincerely,</dialogue>
    <character>0. )</character>
    <dialogue>Simon</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon posts the same stock image of the ferris wheel from Blue's original Creeksecrets post and hits SEND.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CREEKWOOD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>HIGH SCHOOL- OUTSIDE AUDITORIUM- PRESENT Nick and Abby approach Simon and his family. Simon is immediately uncomfortable.</scene_description>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, Spiers.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK</character>
    <parenthetical>(bad British accent)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Great job, Dodge. Stay away from my wallet!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Abby forces a laugh.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Simon, do you need a ride to the carnival?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at them, hopeful. Abby rolls her eyes and gives him a smile like, "We're fine." Simon throws his arms around them, very emotional. Jack and Denise exchange a confused look.</scene_description>
    <character>DENISE</character>
    <dialogue>He never does that when I offer him a ride.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. WINTER CARNIVAL- NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon, Nick, Abby, and Leah walk through a bustling old- school carnival with rickety rides and candy apples and rigged games. It seems like the whole town is there. Simon checks his watch and gives his friends a nod. It's time. They hug him. And then, he takes off on his own.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. WINTER CARNIVAL - FERRIS WHEEL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon boards the ferris wheel, giving the OPERATOR a HANDFUL OF RIDE TICKETS.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>This should last a while.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The ride starts. A pair of CREEKWOODGIRLS notice Simon riding alone.</scene_description>
    <character>CREEKWOODGIRL</character>
    <dialogue>Oh my god, look.</dialogue>
    <character>OTHER CREEKWOODGIRL</character>
    <dialogue>I bet he's waiting for the other gay kid, That's romantic as shit. Where's Dana, she'll love this.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Off Simon, realizing he's been noticed •.. CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. WINTER CARNIVAL - FERRIS WHEEL - LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A crowd of CREEKWOODSTUDENTS has gathered below the ferris wheel, waiting to see if Simon's significant other will show up. Everyone we've met from school is there: Nora, Nick, Abby, Leah, Taylor, Bram, Garrett, Lyle. Plus plenty of others. Every now and then someone calls out something like:</scene_description>
    <character>SUPPORTIVE GUY</character>
    <dialogue>Hang in there!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Or:</scene_description>
    <character>SENIOR GIRL</character>
    <dialogue>We love you, Simon!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon hates the attention. Nora goes into defensive sister mode, trying to get rid of the crowd below.</scene_description>
    <character>NORA</character>
    <dialogue>Don't you people have anything better to do? Go get candy cotton and make out with each other.</dialogue>
    <character>ABBY</character>
    <dialogue>You heard the woman, move people!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But no one moves. TIME CUTS as Simon continues to ride, realizing that if Blue doesn't show up, his humiliation will now be quite public. Happy couples get on and off the ride. Whenever the ferris wheel stops, Simon looks at the line hopefully. But no one joins him in his car. EXT, WINTER CARNIVAL - FERRIS WHEEL - LATER Simon checks his watch - it's 10:28. He's been at this for almost half an hour. The ride comes to a stop.</scene_description>
    <character>OPERATOR</character>
    <dialogue>That was your last ride ticket, buddy.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Okay.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stands up when Martin races out of the crowd.</scene_description>
    <character>MARTIN</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Operator)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>One more. On me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Martin hands the Operator a five dollar bill, shoots Simon a quick look, and returns to the crowd. Everyone watches as the Operator loads new passengers onto the ferris wheel, waiting to see if Simon's guy will show.</scene_description>
    <character>NICK</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, god. I can't watch.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The Operator fills up the ride, then yells out:</scene_description>
    <character>OPERATOR</character>
    <dialogue>Last call for the ferris wheel!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The Operator goes to close the rope and start the ride, when-</scene_description>
    <character>GUY'S VOICE (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Wait!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon looks up to see BRAM GREENFIELD standing at his ferris wheel car. He looks terrified.</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>Can I sit here?</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>Uh, I'm kind of waiting for someone.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Bram sits next to Simon. The Creekwood Students watching hold their breaths.</scene_description>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>I know.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon is confused. He stares at Bram. Then:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>It's ... you?</dialogue>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>It's me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The Operator starts up the ride,</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <dialogue>But at your party you were--</dialogue>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <parenthetical>(wincing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Sorry about that. I was drunk and confused. It ended like a minute after you saw us-</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON</character>
    <parenthetical>(gently)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It's fine.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I didn't think you'd come.</dialogue>
    <character>BRAM</character>
    <dialogue>Me neither. Until I was walking towards you I didn't think I had it in me,</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But you're right. I do deserve a great love story.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(then, suddenly vulnerable)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Are you .•• disappointed? That it's me?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon stares at Bram. Then, he leans over and KISSES him, Bram is shocked. But he gives into it and kisses back. Their moment is interrupted by WHISTLING and CATCALLS. They look below and realize the Creekwood students are enthusiastically cheering for them. They both blush and cover their faces, overcome with a mix of embarrassment and utter joy. Little Secrets, the song from our opening, taking us to ..• INT, SIMON'S ROOM- MORNING Simon pulls on his favorite hoodie, checks his reflection in the mirror, grabs an essay off the printer. INT, SIMON'S KITCHEN - MORNING Simon says goodbye to his family, grabs a handful of delicious, homemade granola Nora is setting out, tosses a few clusters to Bieber.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT,/ EXT. SIMON'S CAR/ SHADYCREEK STREETS - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon pulls up to Nick's house. HONKS. Nick comes out and gets in front just as Leah crosses the street and gets in the back.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. / EXT. SIMON'S CAR/ WAFFLE HOUSE DRIVE THRU - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Waffle Guy Employee hands Simon FIVE ICED COFFEES. Simon hands two to Nick. We know one is for Abby.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. / EXT. SIMON'S CAR/ SHADY CREEK STREETS - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Simon, Nick, and Leah pull up in front of a PRETTY RANCH HOUSE. A new part of their morning routine. Nick automatically gets out of the car and into the backseat with Leah, just as ... Bram comes out of the house and gets into the front seat. Simon hands Bram his iced coffee and gets a GOODMORNINGKISS in return. Nick blows his straw wrapper at them. Simon grins, And we .•. CUT TO BLACK.:</scene_description>
    <character>THE END</character>
  </scene>
</script>

Summary: Simon Spier is a closeted gay teenager living in a suburb of Atlanta, Georgia. He has a close and loving family—parents Emily and Jack, and sister Nora—as well as three best friends: Nick and Leah, whom he has known most of his life, and newcomer Abby. Leah informs Simon about an online confession of a closeted gay student at their high school, known only by the pseudonym "Blue". Simon begins communicating with Blue via email using the pseudonym "Jacques". The two confide personal details and form a connection. Their emails are accidentally discovered by another student, Martin, who is infatuated with Abby. After learning his secret, Martin threatens to make Simon's emails public unless he helps Martin win over Abby. Simon begins trying to figure out which of his classmates is actually Blue. At a Halloween party, Simon suspects his classmate Bram might be Blue and attempts to connect with him, but later walks in on Bram making out with a female student. Nick confides in Simon that he has feelings for Abby. Simon lies to Nick, telling him that Abby has a boyfriend in college. Leah walks an inebriated Simon home, where she speaks vaguely about how she feels that she is fated to love one person very intensely; Simon believes she is referring to Nick. Simon meets up with Abby and Martin at a Waffle House after he convinces them to practice lines together for an upcoming school musical. Simon bonds with their server, a classmate named Lyle, and now suspects that Lyle may be Blue. That night, Simon comes out to Abby and is relieved when she reacts positively. At a school football game, Simon crosses paths with Lyle; before he can summon the courage to ask if Lyle is Blue, he finds out Lyle is actually interested in Abby. An upset Simon tells a pestering Martin to either "go big or go home" when courting Abby. Martin interrupts the national anthem and publicly declares his feelings for Abby. When Abby admits she does not share those feelings, Martin is humiliated and becomes the subject of ridicule. On Christmas Eve, to distract people from his own humiliation, Martin outs Simon by posting his emails on the school's gossip site. Simon's sister, Nora, tries to comfort Simon but he shuts her out and does not return his friends' texts and calls. Simon comes out to his parents on Christmas morning, to their surprise and acceptance. After the holidays, Nick and Abby, now a couple, confront Simon about the lies he told and learn that he tried to keep them apart due to Martin's blackmail. Leah confesses to Simon that she was in love with him, not Nick, and is upset he came out to Abby first. After his friends break off from him, Simon receives a final email from Blue, who is upset that their emails have been leaked. Blue tells Simon that they should stop speaking and deletes his email account. In the cafeteria, Simon and an openly gay student, Ethan, are mocked by classmates. Ethan and Simon bond over the difficulties they have faced coming out. After his mother reaches out and comforts him, Simon apologizes to Leah and tells her he is in love with Blue. Simon posts a confession on the gossip site apologizing to his friends, seeking out Blue and asking him to meet at the school carnival. After the school musical, Leah, Nick and Abby make amends with Simon and invite him to go to the carnival with them. Waiting for Blue at the carnival, Simon rides the Ferris wheel, drawing a large crowd of peers. When Simon runs out of tickets, Martin buys him one more ride. Just before the ride begins, Bram sits next to Simon, revealing himself as Blue after all; the kiss Simon saw with the female student was a drunken misunderstanding. They ride the Ferris wheel together and kiss as their friends cheer them on. Simon's life gradually returns to normal and he begins a relationship with Bram. While picking up his friends and boyfriend for school, Simon suggests that they forgo their usual morning routine and instead go "on a little adventure".