"Wisenheimer" Part Two

Pilot/Episode 1: "The Phone Call" (Part Two)

Every week, a few pages post, in the spirit of serial storytellers like Charles Dickens and Armistead Maupin—and this content is for paid subscribers only! Five bucks a month? C’mon, such a deal.

DISCLAIMER: “WISENHEIMER” is for adults over 18. If produced, it would bear an MA rating. It’s for grown-ups. There is sexual content and the story deals with strong adult themes, as well as socio-political satire and comedy. “WISENHEIMER” is an original work of fiction, written entirely by me, all rights reserved.

You can view the video pitch deck for “WISENHEIMER” here. And for a brief primer on basic screenplay stuff for easier reading, this is helpful.

INT. CANTWELL LIVING ROOM - DAY

Naomi polishes the grand piano while she talks on the phone.

SECRETARY (V.O.)

Good morning, Rubenstein and Associates.

NAOMI

Hi, it’s Naomi Cantwell for Mr. Rubenstein.

SECRETARY (V.O.)

Mr. Rubenstein Senior?

NAOMI

Um...yes?

SECRETARY (V.O.)

I’m afraid Mr. Rubenstein Senior passed away.

Behind Naomi, in the archway to the foyer, Miriam wanders toward the front door. 

NAOMI

Oh, I’m sorry... Maybe it was Mr. Rubenstein, Junior?

SECRETARY (V.O.)

Oh dear. Mr. Rubenstein Junior left us last year.

Miriam has gotten the front door open and is heading out. Hart scrambles after her.

NAOMI

Well, could I speak with an associate? Your office contacted my brother a few years back and I need to reach him urgently.

SECRETARY (V.O.)

Oh, dear. Did someone die...?

Out on the front porch, Hart struggles to get Miriam inside.

INT. CANTWELL KITCHEN - DAY

Naomi, in her robe, phone to ear, a coffee cup in her hand with the words “JEWISH AMERICAN PRINCESS” emblazoned on it.

ALUMNI SECRETARY (V.O.)

Juilliard Alumni Association.

NAOMI

Hi, I’m trying to reach a former student, class of ‘96, music?

ALUMNI SECRETARY (V.O.)

What’s the name?

NAOMI

Ezra Wise.

There’s a silence on the other end. Then laughter.

NAOMI

Hello...?

ALUMNI SECRETARY (V.O.)

Is this a joke? 

NAOMI

No. I’m his sister.

ALUMNI SECRETARY (V.O.)

(stifling laughs) My condolences.

NAOMI

He isn’t dead.

ALUMNI SECRETARY (V.O.)

Oh. Well, I’m sorry, ma’am, but your brother didn’t graduate Juilliard. You could try his ex-boyfriend, Jeremy. He’s a grad.