The Hand That Rocks the Cradle (1992) | Transcript

The Hand That Rocks the Cradle (1992)
Director: Curtis Hanson
Writer: Amanda Silver
Stars: Annabella Sciorra, Rebecca De Mornay, Matt McCoy, Ernie Hudson
Release dates: January 10, 1992

Plot: In Seattle, housewife Claire Bartel is happily married and pregnant with her second child. At a routine check-up, she is sexually molested by her new obstetrician, Dr. Victor Mott. Traumatized, she tells her husband Michael, who encourages her to report Dr. Mott to the state medical board. Her accusation prompts four more women to come forward about Dr. Mott assaulting them, and multiple charges are prepared against him. Dr. Mott commits suicide to avoid being arrested. Lawyers tell Dr. Mott’s pregnant widow that her husband’s assets have been frozen because of the lawsuits. They also reveal that he voided his life insurance contract through his suicide, and she will lose her luxurious home. Overcome with stress, Mrs. Mott goes into pre-term labor, loses her baby, and undergoes an emergency hysterectomy. While recovering, she sees a news story identifying Claire as the first woman who came forward with the allegations against her husband.

Six months later, Claire has given birth to a boy, Joey, and is in the midst of building her own personal greenhouse. She and Michael have also hired an intellectually disabled handyman named Solomon to help with repairs and improvements around their home; Solomon also bonds with their young daughter Emma. Looking for a nanny to provide her with free time to work on her greenhouse, Claire runs into Mrs. Mott, who introduces herself as Peyton Flanders and makes a good impression on both Claire and Michael, who subsequently hire her for the job. Unbeknownst to the Bartels, Mrs. Mott is out for revenge against Claire for reporting her husband in spite of his behavior, as her husband was her only chance to have children. She frequently breastfeeds Joey in secret; this causes him to stop taking Claire’s milk. Mrs. Mott tries to turn Claire’s daughter Emma against her and secretly destroys Michael’s office proposal. One day, Solomon discovers Mrs. Mott breastfeeding Joey. To prevent him from exposing her, Mrs. Mott suggests to Claire that Solomon might be molesting Emma. Mrs. Mott plants a pair of Emma’s underwear in Solomon’s toolbox, leading Claire to fire him, to Emma’s disappointment and causing her to distance herself from her mother as Mrs. Mott had planned. Unbeknownst to the family except for Emma, Solomon keeps a watchful eye over the Bartels.

Knowing that Claire’s close friend Marlene had been Michael’s ex-girlfriend before he married Claire, Mrs. Mott suggests to Michael that he arrange a surprise birthday party for Claire, leading Marlene and Michael to meet in secret. On the day of the party, Claire discovers Marlene’s cigarette lighter in Michael’s suit pocket (Mrs. Mott had stolen it and planted it there). Claire vocally and vulgarly accuses Michael of having an affair with Marlene, but he replies that they only met to plan the party. Claire then finds her and the party-goers in the next room; Marlene leaves hurt and humiliated.

Saddened by this incident and all the others, a now wary Claire begins to suspect “Peyton’s” hand in all of them and suggests to Michael that they should take a family vacation without “Peyton”. Mrs. Mott overhears this on the baby monitor and boobytraps the greenhouse for Claire. Claire does not go into the greenhouse immediately, but goes into town to pick up some seedlings first. Marlene, who is a real estate agent, discovers Mrs. Mott’s identity after the Motts’ home is listed for sale. When she confronts “Peyton” about her real identity and asks for Claire, Mrs. Mott tricks her into going into the greenhouse, where she springs the boobytrap and is killed by the falling glass ceiling. Knowing that Claire suffers from asthma, Mrs. Mott empties all of her inhalers. When Claire returns and finds Marlene’s bloodied body, she has an asthma attack. Without her inhalers, she collapses from exhaustion and is briefly hospitalized. Michael is left distraught over Marlene’s death and his wife’s condition; Mrs. Mott attempts to seduce him, but he rejects her. When Claire returns from the hospital, she visits Marlene’s office and finally uncovers the truth about Mrs. Mott after visiting the Motts’ house and meeting the real estate agent. She returns home and punches Mrs. Mott in the face while revealing the truth to Michael. They fire “Peyton” and order her to leave immediately without packing her belongings, and Michael tells Claire to get the kids so they can head to a hotel for safety.

Mrs. Mott breaks into the house and hits Michael with a shovel in the basement, knocking him down the stairs and breaking his legs. She then attempts to fulfill her true goal: taking the kids for herself. However, after seeing Mrs. Mott assault Claire, Emma outsmarts Mrs. Mott and locks her in the nursery, declaring that Mrs. Mott will never be her mother. Mrs. Mott escapes and finds Solomon in the attic, aiding the kids’ escape. She attempts to kill Claire, but stops after Claire appears to be having another asthma attack, prompting Mrs. Mott to mock her. As she tries to take Joey, Claire gets up, having faked her asthma attack, and viciously attacks a stunned Mrs. Mott, and Solomon distracts her long enough for Claire to push her out of the window, fatally impaling her on the picket fence. Touched at how Solomon risked his life to protect her family, Claire welcomes him back, and they all leave the attic to help Michael as the police and paramedics arrive.

* * *

The Hand That Rocks the Cradle (1992) | Transcript

MAN ON TV: Seattle Today!

(ORANGE GRINDER CONTINUES)

(SINGING) I am the captain of the Pinafore! And a right good captain too! You’re very, very good but…

It’s almost ready, you guys.

We’ll be right down.

…occasionally say… I’m never, never sick at sea

What never?

No, never

What, never?

Well, hardly ever!

(TURNS OFF TV)

(SCREAMS)

Michael!

Emma, stay right there.

What’s the matter?

Claire, stay here.

Mommy?

Hey!

Sorry.

Hey, hey, hey, what are you doing?

What are you doing here?

Mommy?

It’s okay, sweetheart.

This gentleman says the Better Way Society sent him.

Better Day.

Sorry. Better Day Society.

Yeah.

Yeah. The Better Day Society helps place the mentally disabled with employment.

I live there.

Of course!

You’re here to build the fence.

Yeah.

I tried knocking.

Solomon, right?

Rene Peterson told us about the work you did.

I’m Claire and this is my husband, Michael.

Yeah, we met outside.

And this is Emma.

Hello.

It’s nice to make your acquaintance, Emma.

I’m gonna throw some shoes on, show Solomon around outside.

See if our guest would like anything to drink. Okay?

My mom says to ask if you want anything.

I’d like a brand-new bicycle with a big basket on the handlebars and some gears.

That sounds neat.

Okay, okay. I see.

You wanted to take away this?

Yeah.

Yeah.

The new fence should contain the whole area here, and the gate should be right there.

Do you want the fence to keep people in, or keep people out?

Well, both.

But mostly, it should keep people out.

Okay.

Okay.

One, two, three, five, nine.

(LAUGHS)

Just kidding.

I got a tape measure. See?

All right. Is everything all right out here?

Right as rain.

Mrs. Bartel?

That’s me.

The doctor will see you now.

This is your first exam with Dr. Mott?

Yes, it is.

The doctor who delivered my little girl retired.

Dr. Mott was kind enough to take me on midterm.

He’s one of the best.

Expecting his own, you know?

Really?

Take everything off, put the gown on, open at the front.

Okay.

Doctor.

Mrs. Bartel!

Hi.

Hi. I’m Dr. Mott.

It’s nice to meet you.

It’s nice to meet you.

So, how are we today?

Just great.

The baby’s kicking up a storm all day.

This is your second child.

You’re a pro at this, aren’t you?

I see you have a history of asthma.

Any problems?

No, none at all.

Why don’t we take a look? Feet up.

Okay.

I didn’t think it was usual to give pelvic exams after the third month.

We won’t again until the 36th week.

But I want to make sure my new patients have a full exam on their first visit.

It’s Mrs. Miller.

She’s calling again for the test results.

Go ahead and give them to her.

She’s all clear.

If she has any questions, I’ll call her back.

Would you hold, please?

Maria, when you’re in the lab, call in the results of yesterday’s Vira-Paps.

Yes, Doctor.

Sorry about that.

It’s okay.

Why don’t we start with the breast exam?

Weather’s been beautiful these days, hasn’t it?

It has. Yeah.

I love taking walks after the rainstorm.

It’s very important to be able to give yourself your own breast exams.

Relax.

Mrs. Bartel, we need to schedule your next appointment.

(WHEEZING)

(WHEEZING CONTINUES)

(CRASHING)

(DOOR OPENS)

Claire?

Michael!

Honey, what’s the matter?

Michael.

(CRYING)

Honey, what’s wrong? Claire?

It was the way he was touching me.

He wasn’t examining me. It was like…

He was getting off on it.

I mean…

What if I accused him and I was wrong?

Do you think you’re wrong now?

No.

Then we have to file a complaint.

Michael, I don’t think I can do that.

Claire, listen to me.

If we don’t report this, he’s gonna do the same thing to somebody else.

You have to trust yourself.

I don’t think I can, Michael.

I think you can.

We’ll go through it together.

WOMAN ON TV: Even with food and supplies flown into the area daily, the aid is not reaching many of the refugees. Dr. Victor Mott, Seattle gynecologist and obstetrician, was brought up today on charges by the District Attorney’s office. The scandal began last week when one of Mott’s pregnant patients went to the state medical board, claiming she was sexually molested by the doctor during an examination. Since the patient’s initial accusation, four more women have come forward alleging that they, too, had been sexually molested. Citing the possibility of criminal misdeeds, the state medical board turned the case over to the District Attorney’s office.

(GUNSHOT)

Dr. Mott was unavailable for comment. The suicide provision is quite clear. However, we may be able to get the insurance company to return a small settlement.

Mrs. Mott, although your husband had sizeable assets, they’ve been frozen by the state.

Frozen.

This is normal procedure when the estate is probably going to be sued by a number of sources.

You are free to stay in the house until you have your baby, but you should begin to make alternative plans.

I’m very sorry, Mrs. Mott.

Can I help?

(EXHALES)

Get an ambulance here right away!

My baby

(GROANING)

We’ll need blood.

Four units crossmatched now!

I want vital signs!

Pediatrics is standing by.

My baby.

Now lift.

She’s hemorrhaging.

Get this baby out or we’ll lose them both.

I feel it kicking.

You can?

(STRAINING)

Keep her still.

Can’t stop this blood. Call Anesthesia.

I’m gonna operate.

Chest compressions are reducing.

We’re losing him!

No!

Hold her down.

He’s gone.

No.

Anesthesiologist is on the way.

Increase the drip to 90.

Her pressure is 80 over 40.

She didn’t touch it.

Emergency hysterectomy.

She’s been so depressed, she won’t talk. Let me try.

WOMAN ON TV: …against the late Victor Mott’s estate. The suits were filed by four women who claim they had been molested.

You have got to eat.

The investigation was dropped when Dr. Mott was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Claire Bartel has not filed a suit, although she was the first to accuse Mott of molesting her during an exam.

I’ll leave your food.

Her accusation prompted the other women to come forward–

I’m coming up to the back door.

I’m getting close to the back door.

I am now entering the back door.

Good morning, Solomon.

Good morning.

(BABY CRYING)

Thank you.

Hi, little baby.

Get back here. I got you!

(BABY CRYING)

Sorry, Mom.

Don’t cry, baby.

Yes, that’s a big boy.

Thank you, Solomon.

Don’t cry, sweetheart.

Remember the rule at the Better Day Society?

They said it’s best if you didn’t handle the baby.

I’m sorry. I forgot.

I only wanted to help.

I know you did. Thanks.

(MOCK GROWLING)

They’re replacing the greenhouses at the botanical gardens.

I might get one of the frames.

Let me guess.

You want to build your own greenhouse.

Yeah!

The frame’s there, the hardware’s there.

All I’d have to do is erect it and replace the glass.

Honey, don’t you think you’re taking on too much?

Have you given any more thought to hiring a nanny?

I’m not comfortable having any of the girls I interviewed take care of Joey.

Claire, it’s not like when we had Emma.

You don’t need to do everything yourself.

What about Solomon?

He could be our nanny.

Honey, I don’t think Solomon would make a very good nanny.

Why not?

Remember we had the talk about what a special person Solomon is?

Yeah.

Well, there are some things that he can’t do.

What’s gonna happen to Solomon when he finishes painting the trim?

Well, when he finishes painting the trim, I guess we’ll have to find something else for him to do.

Okay?

Okay.

Hurry up, sweetheart.

Bye, Mom.

Bye.

Mrs. Thompson?

Mrs. Thompson!

(BRAKES SQUEAKING)

Thanks.

Thanks for stopping.

No problem.

Here you go, sweetheart.

Thanks, Mom.

Thanks. I think it’s gonna rain later.

That was nice of you.

You’re welcome.

Well, thanks. Thank you.

Excuse me, do you know where the Bartels live?

Well, I’m Claire Bartel.

Hi. I’m Peyton Flanders.

Hi.

I was coming about the nanny position.

All right.

You wanna come up to the house?

Yeah.

I can’t believe I forgot I had an appointment.

I’m usually so good about these things.

Actually, I didn’t have an appointment.

Did the agency just tell you to stop by?

Well, no. I’m not with an agency.

The truth is, I’ve only worked with one family.

They’re moving and I didn’t know what I was gonna do next.

I was with their little girl in the park.

Nannies talk and I heard that your family needed someone.

I shouldn’t have showed up.

I’ve made you uncomfortable.

No, it’s fine. You’re here, so come on in.

Are you sure?

Yeah, yeah.

Usually I have a set of questions l ask, like, “Are you old enough to drive?”

Thank you.

Here. Don’t lose this.

My husband’s been after me to fix this thing.

Well…

How did you come to be a nanny?

Well…

A few years ago, I was pregnant.

I lost the baby and my husband within days of each other.

The miscarriage prevented me from having more children.

It was a very difficult time.

A mutual friend set me up with a family looking for a nanny.

It turned out to be a wonderful experience for both of us.

I adore children.

I love being with them, taking care of them.

For me, it’s the next best thing to actually being a mother.

Well, I’m building my own greenhouse.

And although I’ll just be right in the backyard, I’m anticipating being very busy.

(BABY CRYING)

That’s Joe.

I’d love to meet him.

The nursery is across from the master bedroom.

Claire? I need to ask you something.

I’ll be right back. Excuse me.

(BABY COOING)

CLAIRE: Try to open the window from the inside.

If you can’t, wait till Michael comes home.

Solomon, this is Peyton.

Peyton, Solomon.

Nice to meet you, Solomon.

Hello.

(GASPS)

I’m sorry! I’m sorry.

I’m sorry.

That’s all right. It was an accident.

Anyone can have an accident.

Okay.

He’s beautiful.

He’s very hungry–

I’ve taken up half your morning.

No problem, I really enjoyed it.

I should be going.

I’m gonna leave a letter of reference.

I can show myself out.

You don’t have to get up.

Peyton, would you like to have dinner with us tonight?

I’d love you to meet the family.

I’d love to.

Good. Say around 6:30?

I’ll be here.

I’m in charge of the salad dressing.

And now you’re in charge of setting the table.

Daddy’s gonna be home any minute.

What does your husband do?

Michael’s a genetic engineer.

He works for a research outfit called Biotechnics.

Daddy is a mad scientist.

(HORN HONKING)

It’s Daddy!

Here, let me help with that.

Thanks.

Give me a kiss. Thank you very much.

Thank you very much.

You helping Mom out?

What are you shushing me for?

(WHISPERING) Joey’s asleep.

Thank you.

Hi, beautiful.

How are you?

Peyton, this is my husband, Michael.

Hi.

(OPERA PLAYING ON RADIO)

I gotta tell you guys, that was one of the all-time great meals.

It was delicious.

I was in charge of the salad dressing.

That’s right. She did.

She made it all by herself.

When Mom finishes the greenhouse,

I’m in charge of the strawberries.

Really?

That sounds like a very important job

It is.

She seems terrific. What’s the catch?

There is no catch. I think she’s great.

I think we can get her to commit for a year.

Let’s grab her.

Yeah? Okay.

Oh, my God!

(BABY CRYING)

What happened?

He had this in his mouth.

Mommy’s earring.

It must have fallen out.

He’s okay.

I’m sorry I frightened everybody.

I’m glad you caught it.

I’m glad you got there in time.

(DOORBELL CHIMES)

Hi.

Hi.

This is for you.

Thank you. You didn’t have to do that.

(CHIMING)

That’s very pretty.

They say a wind chime helps a baby sleep.

Why don’t we get you settled downstairs, then we’ll hang it up outside the nursery.

This is a little bit dark, but your room gets more light.

This is the laundry room.

And this is your room.

It’s perfect.

Like it?

(ALARM CLOCK BEEPING)

(FLOORBOARDS CREAKING)

(WIND CHIMES CHIME)

(BABY COOING)

(BABY CRYING)

(WHISPERING) There we go.

Yes.

Mom, look! We did it.

Boy! Let’s see.

Emma, you can certainly shovel!

Thank you.

How pretty!

It looks just like your house.

I know. We put it out every year when the martins come back.

Who are the Martins?

They’re large swallows.

The same family comes back every year to visit us.

Yeah.

I would come back, too.

That is a beautiful bracelet, Claire.

I got that at an antique show.

You can borrow it anytime.

Well, thank you.

This must be a special occasion.

I always feel sexy and glamorous when I wear this dress.

It’s a present from Michael.

Okay, which shoes should I wear, red or black?

Are you wearing a jacket?

Yeah. Well, no. Maybe not.

Then I’d go with the black.

You think so?

Yeah, I guess you’re right.

(DOORBELL)

That’s them. Now I’m really late.

Where are you guys?

Oh, we’re running late.

Does Marlene want to come in?

Nah, she’s on the phone.

Damn.

What is it?

It’s a stain.

It’s perfume oil.

I must have perfume oil on my hands.

I’ll go get some club soda.

Thanks.

Marty, this is Peyton.

Hello, Peyton.

Hello. Nice to meet you.

I need to get something for Claire.

Okay.

(MARTY SIGHS)

Maybe we should go ahead and have kids.

I want to inform you this place will not hold our table.

Hello, Marlene.

Hello.

What’s with you?

What do you mean? Nothing’s with me.

Nothing my ass.

Hi, I don’t believe we’ve met.

I’m Marlene Craven.

You must be Peyton.

Nice to meet you.

Poison.

Excuse me?

The perfume.

You’re wearing Claire’s perfume.

Well, Claire needs me upstairs.

You look great.

You don’t think that’s funny?

No.

There she is.

Hi.

Sorry.

Hi. You look great!

I thought you were going to wear that dress I got you.

Is there something wrong with what I’m wearing?

That’s not what I meant.

Boy, you look good!

You look beautiful.

Let’s go. I’m starving.

You have the number where we’ll be.

I do. Have fun.

Bye.

(MAN SCREAMS ON TV)

(VOICE ON TV) Zombies.

The living dead. This is great!

Mom never lets me watch these movies.

That’s why we have to keep it a secret.

Do you know what a secret is, Emma?

Yeah, something you can’t tell anybody.

No matter what.

That’s right.

Now we have our own little secret club.

That’s our sign.

(BOTH LAUGH)

It was fun meeting your Aunt Marlene and Uncle Marty.

They’ve known your mom and dad a long time?

Aunt Marlene grew up with Daddy.

They were boyfriend and girlfriend when they were little.

Is that right?

Do you have any boyfriends?

No, I hate boys.

You do?

If I tell you something, you promise not to tell anybody?

I promise. Secret club.

Well, this mean kid at school, his name is Roth, he’s been really mean to me.

But he said if I told, I’d be dead meat.

He said that to you?

Did your mother do anything about it?

She tried, but she couldn’t help.

You never, ever let an attractive woman take a power position in your home.

It’s bad business.

A power position.

You heard what I said.

What’s that saying?

“The hand with the baby” that…

Hey, Marl?

How much did you get for the Fletcher house?

Three and change.

All I’m saying is watch your back.

I’m serious! There’s too much pressure.

A woman can feel like a failure if she doesn’t bring in 50 grand a year and still make time for blowjobs and homemade lasagna.

Marlene’s not much of a cook.

I think I’m gonna bum one of these.

You’re such a bad influence.

He only smokes around you now.

One isn’t gonna kill me.

Oh, I got it.

“The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world.”

You want to look at the baby? Look.

Hi.

Look, honey. A boy or a girl?

A boy. His name’s Joe.

How old?

Three months.

He is beautiful.

Thank you.

He has your eyes, you know.

Do you really think so?

Absolutely.

Do you have any other children?

Yes. He has a sister. Her name’s Emma.

She looks more like her father though.

We have one more, too, don’t we, sweetheart?

Peyton.

Hi, Emma.

Tell me, which one is he? Where?

The one with the blue and gray shirt?

Okay.

(ARGUING)

Watch it, trippy!

Sorry, Roth.

My arm! My arm!

I got a message for you, Roth.

Leave Emma alone. Look at me.

If you don’t, I’m gonna rip your head off!

(ROTH SCREAMS)

I get it, ma’am. Let me go!

Don’t forget it.

Awesome!

Wow, that was cool.

(CHILDREN LAUGHING)

Secret club.

Good morning.

What’s the matter?

You’re not hungry, sweetheart?

(SHUSHING)

Claire, I thought you could use a cup of coffee.

Thanks.

Peyton?

Yeah?

Have you noticed anything different about Joe?

No, I haven’t.

Why, is something wrong?

No. I was just wondering. I’m real tired.

Michael was up all night finishing his proposal. I got up at 4:30 to type it.

I hope it works out.

Good morning.

See you tonight.

You’re not gonna have pancakes?

No, I’ve got to go to Federal Express.

Let me. That’s the last thing you need to worry about.

You have the time?

My proposal has to go out today.

Okay. Thanks. I love you.

Bye-bye.

Bye, Michael.

How long have you been volunteering here?

Gee, about seven years.

These days, I just take care of the morning maintenance.

Hi, Claire.

Hi, Stan.

Like a big botanist family down here.

Yup.

We sit around talking about root rot and drainage properties of shredded bark and other fascinating topics.

Is your greenhouse going to be something like this one?

Well, hopefully.

On a much smaller scale though.

I’ve always loved growing anything.

When I was little, my parents thought I was crazy.

They thought I should’ve been born on a farm.

(BABY COOING)

Hey!

Hello.

Hello!

Do you have relatives in Seattle?

Oh, no, I don’t.

My husband was my only family.

He’s the only one who ever really understood me.

He took care of me.

He was murdered.

Murdered?

They never caught who did it.

But I firmly believe what goes around, comes around.

Is there a bathroom here?

Yeah, down through there on the right side.

I’ll be right back.

Come here, little one.

Do you need to be changed?

(WHEEZING)

Come here.

(WHEEZING) Michael’s proposal.

I can’t find it.

It was in your purse.

I saw you put it in there!

Claire, are you all right?

Asthma. I’ll be okay.

Asthma.

Michael, it’s just disappeared.

I’ve retraced my steps.

I spoke to the manager in the restaurant.

He said he’d call in the morning.

What did they say when you called again?

They said they’d consider it next quarter.

But they said they’d consider it?

Claire, come on.

We’ve been over this.

Look, everything is gonna be okay.

Michael, I’m so sorry.

I know you are, honey.

I know you are.

Maybe I left it at the botanicals…

I’m going to get back to work.

I’m sorry.

(BABY CRYING)

Michael, I’m worried about Joe.

Why? What’s wrong?

It’s his eating habits.

He’s stopped nursing the way he used to.

How long has this been going on?

It’s not all the time. A couple of weeks.

Did you call the doctor?

Yeah.

What did she say?

She said it’s fine as long as he keeps gaining weight.

Well, I’m sure he’s fine, honey.

Someone named Peyton is here to see you.

Peyton’s here?

She’s in your office.

She’s our nanny, Gilbert.

Okay.

Let me in on where you do your hiring.

Hi.

He’s out cold.

Sorry to bother you at the office, but I wanted to talk to you in private.

Everything all right?

Oh, yeah.

I just had an idea.

It’s Claire’s birthday coming up.

I thought it would be nice to throw her a surprise party.

She’s been feeling low lately.

Especially with this thing with your proposal.

That’s a good idea.

Yeah?

Yeah.

Do you think Marlene would want to help out?

Help out? You kidding me?

She’ll take over.

Maybe it’s best not to tell her it was my idea.

Why not?

I wouldn’t want her to think I was competitive.

About Claire’s friendship.

You understand Marlene pretty well already.

Good. So I’ll be going.

Okay, good. I’m real glad you came by.

Bye.

Bye.

(SOLOMON EXCLAIMS)

Solomon! I want to show you my sculpture.

Okay. Is that the head? Or is that the foot?

No, that’s part of the fur.

(EXCLAIMS) Okay, I see. That’s a piece of art.

I knew you’d see it.

Yeah. Yeah.

Hi, Emma.

Hi, Peyton.

Hi, Solomon. Emma, why don’t you go inside, I’ve got to talk to Solomon for a minute.

Okay.

Okay.

Are you a retard?

No.

Did you like looking at me? Did you like looking at me? Don’t fuck with me, retard. My version of the story will be better than yours.

I won’t let you hurt them. They’re my friends. I won’t let you hurt them! Boy.

Solomon!

Would you step inside for a minute?

Okay.

Surprise!

It’s for you, big guy I was in charge of picking it out.

(EXCLAIMS)

You’re my friends.

Oh, my.

You should’ve seen his face when we gave him the bicycle.

Emma adores him.

Claire, there’s something that’s been bothering me.

I feel a little awkward bringing it up.

I’ve been noticing some behavior that I feel might be inappropriate.

I’m sorry.

What do you mean, “inappropriate”?

Something about the way he touches her.

I’m sure you must’ve misunderstood.

You’re right. Solomon would never do anything like that.

It would be obvious if Emma were keeping a secret.

I’m sorry.

No, please. It’s okay.

SOLOMON: She’s coming around.

I love you very much, sweetheart.

You know that if anything happened, good or bad, you can tell me and I would love you just as much.

Do you know that?

Yes.

We shouldn’t have any secrets.

Secrets between people who love each other aren’t good.

What’s the matter, baby?

Nothing.

You don’t have to say.

Why can’t I see through this glass?

It’s fiberglass, a different kind of glass.

We put real glass in the ceiling to let the sunlight through.

And this lets the air in so it doesn’t get too hot in the greenhouse.

Joe’s intercom conked out, and I couldn’t find any batteries in the kitchen.

Think Solomon’s got some in his cart?

Well…

He’s got everything else there.

Let me take a look.

(WHEEZING)

CLAIRE: Sweetheart?

Come away from the window, honey. Emma?

Come sit down.

Peyton.

(CRYING)

But I don’t understand.

Why did they take Solomon away?

I guess your mommy didn’t like Solomon very much.

I wanted to help Solomon, but I was afraid she’d send me away, too.

I hate her.

I bet your mommy wasn’t mean like mine.

I didn’t have a mommy.

She died when I was very little.

Your mommy died?

Then who took care of you?

I had to take care of myself.

Peyton, if something happens to my mommy, would you take care of me?

Of course I would.

And your daddy, too.

I’d take care of all of you.

Last of the boxes.

(SIGHS)

Emma’s going to be okay, Claire.

She’s so different around me lately.

She’s not my little girl. She’s so angry.

And guarded.

I think maybe she blames me because I didn’t protect her.

I don’t think so, Claire.

Marlene wants to get together tonight to make out a guest list.

I’m not sure this party’s a good idea now.

We should go ahead with it.

Everyone could use some cheering up.

Especially Claire. You know how she’s been blaming herself.

Yeah, I think you’re right.

Guess I just needed to hear it.

(BABY COOING)

Thanks for lunch. I liked the part where we picked up the fertilizer.

Oh, you liked that?

Oh, yeah.

Hi, you two.

Can I take him?

Oh, sure.

Hi, sweetheart. Hello.

(BABY CRYING)

Let me help.

He’s getting so big.

He’s a different kid every time I see him.

He’s got a great set of lungs, doesn’t he?

Oh, what’s the matter?

You want mommy?

You want to go?

What happened?

I don’t know what got into him today.

Want me to try?

Wanna go to Peyton?

It’s okay.

Yeah.

Yeah, it’s okay, little one.

(CHIMING)

What is that annoying noise?

Wind chimes. A gift from Peyton.

Charming.

Well, I gotta go.

Byebye. Thanks for lunch.

Okay.

(WHISPERING)

Marlene, Peyton’s making one of her famous soufflés.

Why don’t you and Marty stop by for dessert?

I’m showing the Fletcher house tonight.

Didn’t you sell the Fletcher house?

Actually I did, but the financing fell through.

I have to start all over. Bye. I’ll call you.

Okay.

That smells great.

You know what they say.

Chocolate’s a substitute for sex.

Chocolate’s great, but I don’t know about that.

Guess you and Michael keep those fires burning all the time, huh?

Well, we certainly have enjoyed each other.

When we first moved into this house, we christened every room.

Really?

Yeah.

Well, you know.

When you have a baby, you start to feel tired and unattractive and fat.

I’m sure Michael is as attracted to you now as he ever was.

A man never loses it for his first love.

But I wasn’t Michael’s first love.

No?

You’ll never guess who was.

Marlene?

Am I right?

Yeah, how’d you know that?

Wild guess.

You know, it’s a shame Michael’s not here. He’s gonna miss it.

What’s he doing so late at the lab anyway?

That’s a good question.

I’m gonna give him a call.

Randy and Cecie.

Dave and Loreeta.

And Mitch.

Mitch and the Harrisons.

Oh, come on.

They always invite us.

You got a light?

Can’t find my lighter.

Marty’s gonna throw a fit.

You know, I’m still not sold on this whole surprise party thing.

Because of Emma?

And Claire.

She just hasn’t been herself lately.

How’s Peyton doing?

Boy, Peyton’s been great.

Has she?

I don’t know what we would have done without her.

(FOOTSTEPS)

Hi, sweetie.

Hi.

How was your night?

Fine.

Yeah?

Michael, I called the lab.

There was no answer.

I was in a room without a phone.

Honey, come on.

I didn’t mean to frighten you.

You been smoking?

No, I haven’t been smoking.

One of the techs was.

Must be in my hair.

Michael, you never let anybody smoke at the lab.

What is this, an interrogation?

Well?

Well, what?

It’s been a long day.

I just wanna go to bed.

(RUSTLING)

I heard something.

I dropped something.

Well, good night.

Can I fix you something?

No, thanks.

Are you sure?

I’m sure.

Good night.

Your mom and I want to talk to you.

The Better Way Society is putting Solomon back to work.

Better Day!

Better Day, sorry.

Your mom and I want you to let us know if you see him around school or at the house.

You don’t have to be afraid.

I’m not afraid of Solomon.

Peyton! Wait for me!

Peyton !

Mrs. Bartel.

Hi, Joe.

Let’s see. Three pants, a dress, one shirt. Like starch?

Yeah, and this jacket here kind of smells of cigarette.

I didn’t know your husband was a smoker.

He’s not.

What’s this?

Mrs. Bartel, your husband’s got a habit he’s keeping from you.

(WHEEZING)

Mommy, what’s wrong?

(SIGHING)

Mom, let’s go inside.

Go upstairs to your room and play.

But, Mom…

Emma, please! Go upstairs.

Claire?

Honey, what’s the matter?

Michael.

How could you do this?

What are you talking about?

You’ve been lying to me.

(INDISTINCT NOISE)

Honey, calm down.

Don’t tell me to calm down, you son of a bitch.

You don’t understand.

I understand you’ve been fucking Marlene.

All right, Claire, that’s enough!

There are people in there.

What are you talking about?

Talking about a surprise party.

Oh, my God.

Everybody’s in there.

Surprise.

(ALL) Surprise.

(BABY COOING)

Did you speak to Marlene yet?

No.

I can’t seem to face her.

Michael, I can’t go on like this anymore.

I can’t say I’m sorry any more than I already have.

I can’t go on like this anymore either.

CLAIRE: I was thinking, maybe we could go away for a few days.

MICHAEL: You mean, Peyton and the kids, or just us? No, I was thinking just the family without Peyton. You like having Peyton around. I do, and then sometimes I don’t. You sound like you’re turning on her.

It’s just… You know.

So many things have gone wrong since she’s been here.

You saying those things are Peyton’s fault?

No.

I don’t know.

I just don’t feel like myself.

Claire, honey, come on. Peyton’s come through in some very tough times. I know.

We’ll talk about it when we go away.

We’ll go away, just the family.

(OPERA PLAYING)

(GRUNTING)

If there are any further services that I might provide, do not hesitate to call, blah, blah, blah.

These are all in the Magnolia District in that price range.

East-wind, Hobart. These are old.

They still haven’t unloaded the good doctor’s house.

Waiting for a tip?

Cancel my morning.

What should I tell Lambert?

Make something up.

You’ve got a Harvard education.

(BABY COOING)

Hi, sweetheart. I’ll be back in a while.

You’re not working here?

No, I have to go to the botanicals to pick up seedlings. I won’t be long.

Fucking A.

(PHONE RINGING)

Hello?

Let me speak to Claire.

May I ask who’s calling?

Marlene Craven. Want me to spell it?

Claire’s not here.

I’ll tell her you called.

Sure you will. What is this, a parade? Let’s go!

(HORN HONKING)

Claire, I didn’t know you were here.

Marlene called, said it’s important.

Oh, okay, thanks.

(DOORBELL)

Hello, Marlene.

Claire! It’s Marlene! Claire!

Marlene, is everything all right?

No.

I need a doctor. Know of any, Mrs. Mott?

Where’s Claire?

Marlene, please?

Where is she?

She’s in the greenhouse.

But, please, Marlene, please don’t go out there.

Claire! This is important!

It has nothing to do with the party!

Claire!

Claire!

(GASPING)

(DOG BARKING)

(HUMMING)

(HUMMING)

This little piggy stayed home.

This little piggy had roast beef.

This little piggy had none.

(WHEEZING)

(WHEEZING)

911 emergency.

(WHEEZING)

(WHEEZING)

(SIREN WAILING)

Here’s the O2.

This isn’t going to work.

Get me my laryngoscope and a number five line right away.

What happened?

Paramedics are with her now.

What happened?

Everything’s gonna be fine.

She’s a friend? It’s gonna be okay.

She has trouble breathing.

She has asthma.

The paramedics have everything under control.

Hey, Al.

Take a look over here.

It’s okay, Joe. It’s okay.

(THUNDER CLAPPING)

(HEART MONITOR BEEPING)

Claire, honey? Can you hear me?

You’re safe now. You’re in a hospital.

Just try and rest, okay?

(SIREN WAILING)

Michael.

I keep seeing Marlene’s face.

I can’t believe she’s gone.

Come inside.

That’s better.

You’re soaked.

Soaked through.

Peyton.

There’s only one woman for me.

(WHISPERING) That’s all you need.

Thanks.

Thank you very much.

You okay?

Fine.

Emma?

Fasten your seat belt, sweetheart.

I got it.

Hi, Peyton.

Hi, Emma.

Hello, Claire, it’s good to have you home.

It’s good to be home.

Michael, the school secretary called.

The meeting is Thursday.

I wrote it in your book.

Okay, great, thanks. It’s a fundraiser.

Peyton heard about it when she picked up Emma.

You said I could borrow it. Is it all right?

Yeah.

I’ll be right back.

I don’t want to burn dinner.

It’s great to have you back.

You like it? Peyton did it.

Someone could have asked me first.

We thought it would be a surprise.

We thought you might like it.

If you don’t, I’ll have her take it down.

It’s okay.

All right, well, I’ll put your things away.

(BABY COOING)

All right, do you have any sevens?

Go fish.

Look what I took, huh?

Do you have a ten?

Go fish!

Keep your cards up here so Peyton can’t see them.

So you can’t see them.

Yeah, that’s it.

There we go.

(CHIMING)

Did she tell you where she was going in such a hurry?

No, she just took off.

Told me to cancel her morning.

What was she doing before she left?

I had just given her these listings she had asked for.

She looked at them.

A minute later, she hurried out of here.

Listings? These?

Those are the ones.

Mrs. Harris?

I’m glad you made it.

Bruce Silverman, Windemere Realty.

Would you care to take a look inside?

Yeah.

I’m glad you made it.

I was just on my way out.

The house was custom-built three years ago.

It’s listed well below market value.

They’re very motivated.

May I?

Of course.

The original owners lived here a very short time.

New carpet throughout.

There is a nursery?

Perfect room for kids.

That’s a strange-looking toy. What is it?

It’s a breast pump.

Breast pump?

She used it to keep her milk up.

(TIRES SCREECHING)

I don’t understand where she could be.

I don’t either.

Here she is.

Where have you been?

Michael, I’ve got…

Claire, we were worried about you.

Claire, my God!

She’s Dr. Mott’s widow, Michael.

She’s what?

Get out of our house.

She’s turning on me, just like you said she would.

She doesn’t realize how I’ve come through for this family.

You have to tell her, tell her about us.

There’s nothing to tell.

You should leave.

Michael, what are you saying?

You told me there was only one woman for you.

I meant Claire, my wife.

Okay, fine.

I’ll just get my baby and we’ll be on our way.

I meant, I’ll just go get my things.

Michael.

You don’t understand.

I mean, leave now.

We’ll send your things.

You’re right, Michael. That’s best.

The keys.

Of course.

I’m sorry. You’ve been so kind.

Mommy, Daddy, what’s happening?

Emma, stay there!

It’s okay, Emma.

Mommy and Daddy want me to leave.

Goodbye, Peyton.

Peyton !

Call the police!

Claire, calm down.

You don’t know what she’s capable of!

We have her keys!

I think she rigged the greenhouse for me!

Get the kids’ things.

We’ll go to a hotel.

Go upstairs, sweetheart.

Can you get someone over here right away?

It’s not an emergency situation.

Well, no.

I’ll have a car there as soon as I can.

All right, we live at 808 Yakima.

Emma, sweetheart, we’re gonna go away for a few days, okay?

Bring dolly with you.

(OPERA PLAYING)

Peyton?

Peyton?

(SWITCHES OFF MUSIC)

(ALARM CLOCK BEEPING)

Michael?

Daddy?

Emma, I want you to lock this door behind me.

Don’t open it until I come back.

Yeah.

Stay here.

Michael?

(GLASS BREAKING)

(SCREAMS)

Claire.

Michael.

I’m okay.

She’s in the house.

I can’t move. My legs are broken.

I’ll get the kids.

Call the police.

(DOOR CREAKING)

Mommy?

911, what is your emergency?

Hello, yeah.

We need help at 808 North Yakima.

Mommy!

(YELLING) My family!

It’s my family.

It’s okay, Emma.

Mommy’s here.

I’m gonna take you and Joe.

We’re gonna have a real family.

You never have to see those people again.

So tell your mommy, where’s Joe?

Where is he?

He’s in there.

You’re not my mommy!

Emma!

(BABY CRYING)

(POUNDING)

Quiet.

PEYTON: Emma! Emma!

Emma.

You’re being very bad, Emma.

(BABY CRYING)

(BABY CRYING)

(BABY CRYING)

(BABY CRYING)

You.

You give him over.

No!

No?

No!

You give me my baby or I’ll bash your skull in!

Peyton !

It’s my family, Peyton.

Don’t hurt my mommy!

(WHEEZING)

Something the matter, Claire?

(WHEEZING)

When your husband makes love to you, it’s my face he sees.

When your baby’s hungry, it’s my breast that feeds him.

Look at you.

When push comes to shove, you can’t even breathe.

Now, give him to me.

No!

No!

(EXCLAIMS)

No!

(BABY COOING)

Solomon.

He’s okay. I didn’t hurt him.

I know, I know.

Okay?

(SHUSHING)

Emma! Emma, it’s okay.

Come on, come on, up we go.

Mommy!

Let’s go down to Daddy, okay?

Solomon, I need you to do something for me.

I need you to take Joey downstairs.

No, I’m not supposed to handle the baby.

That’s okay.

I trust you, Solomon.

It’s okay?

Okay? Yeah.

Boy. There you are.

(SIREN WAILING)

Come on, sweetheart.

Let’s go and get Daddy.

Oh, my, little baby.

Solomon?

Come on.

(SIREN WAILING)