Rough Cut

🎬 Topaz & Stillman — Episode 1: “Rough Cut”

 From the twisted universe of the hit horror drama Leo Brawn: Demon Hunter comes a brand-new spin-off—an outrageous action-comedy where Willie Topaz and Maury Stillman finally get the spotlight in Topaz & Stillman: An 80s Adventure.

The Lowdown

Willie Topaz, Hollywood’s rising firecracker—late to rise, ladies in tow, blasting in a souped-up Firebird with Maury Stillman riding shotgun. By sundown, he’s clutching “Best Car Chase” at the Orion Awards and sending rival Rhythm Mercy into a slow burn. The press pokes at his past, the family he left behind… but before the applause fades—bam. At 33, Willie’s gone.

Years later, bitter Rhythm finds himself behind the mic, forced to narrate Rough Cut: The Rise of Willie, reliving the legend he despised. Through his reluctant voice, we rewind to Clayton Ames: a kid with a star-shaped birthmark, dazzled by movie palaces, christened by a rough-cut gem. On set, tears flow for the first time—thanks to coach Clifford Moss and an old flame returned.

Fast, funny, and slick with Hollywood satire, “Rough Cut” launches the saga—ambition, friendship, and a rivalry still smoldering long after the spotlight went dark.

The Lineup

Starring:

• Terry Briscoe as Willie Topaz (Brock Gatling)
• Jim Fronk as Maury Stillman
• Damon Alums as Rhythm Mercy (Narrator)
• Lisa Stewart LeBon as Cleo Ames
• Shaun Scott as Dallas Ames
• Diamandi Devereaux as Lyric Dorsey
• Mike Pelletier as Kiff Maxon
• Eric Carlino as Clifford Moss
• Logan Beard as Clayton Dunbar Ames
• Michael Cunningham as Host/Announcer

Also Starring:

• Mitch Leschinski as Audio Engineer
• Mike Pelletier as  George Clemonstreet (reporter), Caleb Barker (Natyr Zane) & 2nd AD
• Stitch Mainville as Balthazar Crumlin (reporter)
• Emily Fry as Jamie Burnham (reporter)
• Samantha deSuze as Tatiana Marigold (reporter)
• Robb Smith as Ronald Buttress (reporter)
• Lucas Martinez as Doctor Chambers
• Brian Dahms as Gem Store Employee
• Bill Celler as Entertainment Reporter

The Crew

• Executive Producers: Terry Briscoe & Jim Fronk
• Associate Producer: Andy Parkin

The Tune

"The Willie Strut" performed by Possum Bobby

• Producers: Robert Lloyd, John Pennington, Bob Harvey 
• Composer/All Guitars, Bass Guitar: Robert Lloyd
• Drums: Marcus Graham
• Post Production, Keyboards: John Pennington
• Recorded and Mixed at Fahrenheit Studio by Bob Harvey and John J.P. Pennington

The Hub

• https://www.patreon.com/c/ShoestringTV
• https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/shoestringtv/topaz-and-stillman-an-80s-adventure-podcast
• https://youtube.com/@shoestringtv7048?si=js5A-O

Concept by Jim Fronk & Terry Briscoe

Created, written, directed & mixed by Jason Beard

Transcript

SPEAKER_03 0:29

Willie? You missed your wake up call again. What? Oh shit. All right, I'll get up. Hello. Nineteen eighty-four is calling. Take advantage of the technology available, my man. The hotel can do this for you. They do all the work. All you have to do is actually get up. We're living on the cusp of the future, and you still wait for me to sing you a damn lullaby.

SPEAKER_06 0:53

I said I'm getting up.

SPEAKER_03 0:55

Whoa, whoa, whoa! Not without some clothes. Here, put this on. Uh, come on, ladies. Um, I'm so glad y'all had what was clearly a good night at the Chateau Montebello, but uh Tante Skidado! Let's go! Let's go! Oh, yes, that's cute, yeah, yeah. Uh, leave your number. I have no doubt Mr. Topaz will reach out soon. Uh okay? Bye-bye! Well, twins. Huh? Huh? They were twins? Uh good reminder. I still need to reschedule your appointment for an optometrist. Hurry up, finish getting dressed. What is this?

SPEAKER_06 1:34

Uh, whiskey, I think. Oh. Nope. Tequila! Where's the award show taking place?

SPEAKER_03 1:44

The Intercontinental. Downtown LA. And we're in the Montebello, so it's gonna be tight.

SPEAKER_06 1:50

Who schedules an award show this early in the morning?

SPEAKER_03 1:54

Willie, it's four in the afternoon. And the award show starting at five. And as for who, it's the Orion Action Awards. Would you finish getting dressed, please? We can talk in the limo.

SPEAKER_06 2:07

We have a limo?

SPEAKER_03 2:08

Yes, we have a limo! I got it for a sweet discount, too. Friend of a friend of a cousin's friend who's a member of the Signari Club. Will you get dressed? Something formal, please. We can discuss your questionable life choices on the way out.

SPEAKER_06 2:27

You think my life choices are questionable.

SPEAKER_03 2:32

Just needed the extra thing. Now, get dressed.

SPEAKER_06 2:44

Oh yeah.

SPEAKER_03 2:46

Now that's a movie star. How the hell did you change so fast? Are you complaining? No, no, you're right. It's just uh it takes me 20 minutes just to find my damn shoes.

SPEAKER_06 2:58

Maury, limo's waiting.

SPEAKER_03 3:02

Where the fuck is the limo? Oh, god damn those signaries!

SPEAKER_06 3:07

Relax. I've got talent in the back.

SPEAKER_03 3:09

Talon? Huh. Please don't tell me you're offering to drive. I get motion sickness when you're behind the wheel.

SPEAKER_06 3:18

That's probably from the 40 different chemicals you have coursing through your veins, not my driving.

SPEAKER_03 3:24

All right, all right. You have a point, okay, okay. But listen, listen. Uh no need for Steve McQueen, all right? This isn't bullet. Ori, chill out.

SPEAKER_06 3:34

I was trained by the best.

SPEAKER_03 3:37

You were trained by Stan Barrett to turn into a controlled roll and jump through rings of fire. Holy smoking shit! This is a Pontiac Firebird transient turbo! I think it just peed my pants a little.

SPEAKER_06 3:52

Again, probably from the zing. Pop in.

SPEAKER_03 3:59

Another car. I hope you lease this. Paid in full. Cash. Hello. Adding your spending choices to the list of questionable life choices. And uh you're handing me a helmet. Why?

SPEAKER_06 4:14

This beautiful piece of machinery comes with a V8 engine and 210 horsepower. It can go from zero to 60 in about eight seconds. That's out of the factory.

SPEAKER_03 4:24

Uh-oh. Uh well, I feel uh uh uh a butt coming on. I'm right, right? There's a big butt coming.

SPEAKER_06 4:32

But my man Maurice, he made a few modifications. Uh-oh. Um, what modifications? You want some zinc. I'll give you some zinc.

SPEAKER_08 4:48

I didn't even get to put the album!

SPEAKER_19 5:03

Two string TV proudly presents Topaz and Stillman, an 80s adventure, a two-string TV production. Tonight's premier episode, Rough Cut, starring Terry Frisco as Willie Topaz, and Jim Frank as Laurie Stillman. Written and directed by Jason Beard.

SPEAKER_06 6:06

Let me guess. Uppers, downers, or half a pound of nose can?

SPEAKER_03 6:12

I'll have you know it was huevos rancheros. So a poor choice.

SPEAKER_06 6:18

What a what am I up for?

SPEAKER_03 6:21

Best car chase action sequence.

SPEAKER_06 6:24

For which movie?

SPEAKER_03 6:26

Do you ever read the itinerary? Brock Gatlin. Sleep when I'm dead. Ah, that car chase was dope. Okay, okay, we're at the entrance. Let me do all the talking. Find out where we're sitting, okay?

SPEAKER_06 6:41

Uh Maury? What is it, Willie?

SPEAKER_11 6:45

You still have the helmet on the winner for best actor in Car Chase Action Sequences.

SPEAKER_03 7:03

Willie Top We did it. How do I look? Look like a crop on the bed and I'm working on a kid. You look like a million bucks. You probably freaking bucks.

SPEAKER_06 7:34

Thank you so much. I want to thank the Orion Film Association and their members for this prestigious award. First and foremost, I want to thank the manager of the century, Maurice Stillman. This award is as much his as it is mine. I also have to thank the stunt coordinator and crew. I would not have been able to give such a powerful performance without their skillful guidance. Lastly, I just want to thank the fans. All of you that pay to see Brock Gatling, those that write me or walk up to me on the street and tell me how much these movies have meant to you. You know, back when I was a boy, in those meager and humble beginnings, I couldn't even imagine an evening such as tonight. Thank you very much. So, how did I do?

SPEAKER_03 8:25

Smooth as silk, my friend. I couldn't help but notice our friend was shooting daggers the whole time, though.

SPEAKER_06 8:35

Mr. with a mercy. Oh, he's always had a problem with me. Why? I can't even remember. Oh, I do.

SPEAKER_03 8:43

It's called jealousy. Otherwise, known as envy. And you know, that's one of the deadly sins. But don't sweat it. Willie, this is your night.

SPEAKER_06 8:55

It's our night.

SPEAKER_10 9:03

Mr. Topaz, Jamie Vernon with Entertainment Worldwide. Thanks for sitting down with me and congratulations on your win tonight.

SPEAKER_06 9:11

My pleasure, Jamie. Yes, it was a big win for the Broad Gatling franchise and for my team.

SPEAKER_10 9:18

I did happen to notice something I found to be unusual during your acceptance speech.

SPEAKER_06 9:24

My acceptance speech? Well, yes, I should have actually written something. I was sort of winging it up there.

SPEAKER_10 9:31

You alluded to your meager and humble beginnings, but you didn't specifically mention your family, your mom and dad.

SPEAKER_06 9:39

Uh, I I didn't.

SPEAKER_10 9:41

No, which brought me to this question. Is there something about your past that led you to omit them?

SPEAKER_06 9:48

No, no, not at all. I mean, obviously the support of my mom and dad helped me get to where I am today, even if we don't speak or see each other that often anymore.

SPEAKER_10 9:59

Interesting. So from the past, now let's look towards the future. What do you see for Willie Tope as the action star?

SPEAKER_06 10:07

Hmm. Well, Jamie, I think sky's the limit.

SPEAKER_15 10:22

Ladies and gentlemen, I'm just receiving a breaking report. Um, is is this accurate? My god. Ladies and gentlemen, sorry for the momentary delay. Um very sad to report that the actor Willie Topaz of Brock Gatling and Archie Magnet fame has died. He was only 33 years old.

SPEAKER_00 10:46

This is Tatiana Marigold's reporting. Although details are scarce, Willie Topaz's death is being investigated as a homicide. Detectives did indicate they had a suspect, but no further information was provided at the time of this broadcast.

SPEAKER_13 11:08

The killer has not been written. Sources close to the investigation report of the murderer has been dubbed the Forever Mind Killer.

SPEAKER_10 11:15

A recent recipient of the Orion Action Committee's best performance during a car chase. I asked Willie about his family and the fact that they had recently become estranged. I do hope prior to his final moment, Willie was able to reconnect with his parents. Cleo reached out the same.

SPEAKER_12 11:35

This is Representatives with the express family. We reached out to his parents, Cleo would tell the same, but they were unable to come. Representative for the family to this statement.

SPEAKER_11 11:52

It was a screen.

SPEAKER_19 12:05

He's gone. Due to the pattern and the mystic nature of the crimes, we classified the suspect as a serial killer who is dangerous and at large.

SPEAKER_04 12:22

Oh, there he is.

unknown 12:24

Mr.

SPEAKER_04 12:24

Stillman, Mr. Stillman, George Clement Street with the LAB. We're so sorry for your loss. Is there anything you'd like to say to all the Brock Gatling fans out there?

SPEAKER_03 12:34

Come on. Guys, hey, it's really not a good time. Look, Billy wasn't just my number one client. He was my best friend.

SPEAKER_04 12:49

I'll miss him dearly. Do you have any response to the rumors that Rhythm Mercy, a known rival and fellow actor, may be in the running to pick up the Brock Gambling mantle?

SPEAKER_03 13:02

My response is to read.

SPEAKER_04 13:21

Well, folks, you heard it here first. Certainly, no love lost between Stillman and Mercy. Time will tell what the future holds for them all.

SPEAKER_01 13:36

Big news tonight: Rhythm Mercy has signed on to narrate the brand new book, The Rise of Willy. Yes, the same Rhythm Mercy who once clashed with Willie Topaz in one of Hollywood's most infamous rivalries. And if you recall, that feud raged right up until Willie's tragic death. And while the man is gone, the bad blood lives on. Three decades later.

SPEAKER_16 13:57

I fucking hate Willie Topaz. What are you doing? We were recording. I understand that. But imagine my discontent. I'm asking for some empathy here.

SPEAKER_17 14:14

Oh, I'm sorry, and I'm just asking for a decent lunchtime. So do us both a favor, regardless of your discontent, please just read the script.

SPEAKER_16 14:28

And if I refuse.

SPEAKER_17 14:31

Hey hey. Rhythm.

SPEAKER_16 14:33

Mr. Mercy, if you please.

SPEAKER_17 14:37

Okay. Mr. Mercy, you're essentially already blacklisted from most studios around town. What's your point? Well, my point is everyone knows the beef you had with Willie Topaz, but considering this is a recording of his biography after his death, do you really want it to be seen as this petty? Do you really want it to be reported that you're now in breach of contract? I mean, let's face it, you need this, don't you? It's been what, almost 38 years? So top of page two. Top of page two, if you please, Mr. Mercy.

SPEAKER_16 15:27

Rough Cut, The Rise of Willie, written by Maury Stillman. Read by Rhythm Mercy. As all stories of icons should, the story of legendary excuse me. Really.

SPEAKER_17 15:48

This fucking guy. Hey, we're burning daylight, Mr. Mercy. Take two, and we're rolling.

SPEAKER_16 16:01

As all stories of icons should, the story of legendary action movie star, Vespian, humanitarian, and Lothario Willy Topaz starts at the beginning. It's October 1st, 1953. The United States and South Korea signed a mutual defense treaty in Washington, D.C. The number one song is The Velvet Glove by Hugh Winterhalter and his orchestra. The number one movie in the country is The Big Heart by Fritz Lang. But most notably, Willie Topaz would enter this world at exactly midnight in the birthing ward of the Northwest Hospital in Randallstown, Maryland. And believe you me, the world would take notice. Parents Cleo Ames, former track and field Olympian, now respected elementary school teacher, and Dallas Ames, physicist and mentor, gave birth to a healthy seven-pound baby boy.

SPEAKER_14 17:14

Oh Dallas, look at him. Ha ha!

SPEAKER_20 17:18

We did it, Cleo! We? Well, you did it, but I was cheering you from the sidelines. Are you okay? Can I get you anything? I created these hydration tablets if you're feeling parched.

SPEAKER_14 17:30

No, honey. I just want to look at our beautiful baby boy. Oh my goodness. He's he's exceptional.

SPEAKER_20 17:40

He definitely takes after you. Mr. and Mrs.

SPEAKER_19 17:44

Ames?

SPEAKER_14 17:44

Yes, Doctor. Is everything okay?

SPEAKER_19 17:47

Oh, absolutely. That is one healthy, handsome boy you have there. I'm holding your certified birth record here. Uh, do you have a name for this precious child?

SPEAKER_20 17:56

Dallas. Yes, doctor. We're naming him after her older brother, Clayton Dunbar.

SPEAKER_19 18:02

Clayton Dunbar Ames. That is one groovy name. Oh, my. Did you see this?

SPEAKER_16 18:09

So it would come to pass that the action star Willie Topaz entered this world as Clayton Dunbar Ames. However, there would be another footnote on this momentous occasion. The doctor notices an unusual mark on the newborn and slides the blanket aside to reveal a star-shaped birthmark on the child's back.

SPEAKER_20 18:31

Well, would you look at that? It's almost a perfect star. That's right. My son will be an astronaut, an astronomer.

SPEAKER_14 18:43

No, baby. I can tell. He's gonna be a superstar.

SPEAKER_16 18:55

It's 1959. Cleo and Dallas Ames would raise Clayton in Washington, D.C., off of Belmont Street. Young Clayton, a precocious six-year-old, walks down the booming U Street corridor with his dodgy mother, where they happen to pass by the Republic Theater. The Alfred Hitchcock film North by Northwest is playing, and there is a line of moviegoers winding out of the entrance.

SPEAKER_14 19:31

Mommy, what is that place? Oh, that is the Republic Theater. They play movies there. Movies? It's like watching TV, but on a much bigger screen. And you get to do it with your friends and neighbors. It's so bright.

SPEAKER_18 19:46

Everyone is smiling.

SPEAKER_14 19:48

Would you like to go to the movies one day?

SPEAKER_18 19:50

Yes, mommy. I'd like that very much.

SPEAKER_14 19:52

Okay. I'll talk it over with your daddy, and we'll go sometime.

SPEAKER_18 19:57

Really? Who's the man in the picture?

SPEAKER_14 20:01

Oh, that's a movie poster. And the man on the poster is Carrie Grant. He's the star of the movie. A star? A movie star. He's an actor. The actors are the ones who play in the movie. They get to play. In a way, yes. They play pretend. They pretend to be different people with different names and pretend to live someone else's life.

SPEAKER_18 20:26

Grown-ups can play pretend?

SPEAKER_14 20:28

Some grown-ups, yes.

SPEAKER_18 20:31

Probably not daddy.

SPEAKER_14 20:34

No, your dad prefers inventing to pretending.

SPEAKER_18 20:38

Mommy, you called him a star?

SPEAKER_14 20:41

Yes, that's what they're called. When they become famous.

SPEAKER_18 20:44

A star, like my mark.

SPEAKER_14 20:47

That's right, Clayton. I believe you are destined for great things. I feel that deep in my soul. But I want you to understand. Fame, being a star, in and of itself, is of no value. It's what you do with your notoriety that matters.

SPEAKER_18 21:05

Notor. notoriety?

SPEAKER_14 21:09

Notoriety. What do you think that means?

SPEAKER_18 21:13

I think it means that we're getting ice cream.

SPEAKER_14 21:18

Okay, okay. Ice cream it is.

SPEAKER_16 21:24

Willie would see his first movie in the Republic Theater in the U Street corridor, as well as countless more throughout the years. Although he was an avid moviegoer for the next four years, the idea he could become one of the greatest actors of a generation. Son of a bitch!

SPEAKER_17 21:43

The greatest actor of a generation. And we're rolling take three.

SPEAKER_16 21:54

The idea that he would become one of the greatest actors of a generation never dawned on him. It wouldn't be until 1963 when the first hint of stardom would present itself. The first colonel that would bring about the iconic name Willie Topaz.

SPEAKER_14 22:13

Leo!

unknown 22:14

Leo!

SPEAKER_14 22:15

Yes, honey. What is it?

SPEAKER_20 22:17

Can you ask Clayton to come here? I need some help with the semiconductor injection laser.

SPEAKER_14 22:22

Of course you do. Now don't go burning down the house with that.

SPEAKER_20 22:26

Oh, not to worry, my darling dove. Although, a solid-state laser. The laser emitting diode will be infrared in nature, emitting coherent radiation.

SPEAKER_14 22:38

Dallas, will it burn down the house? Well no. Then I will go get our son.

SPEAKER_20 22:49

Okay. Now son, very gently, lower the casing down on the table. Very good. Okay, perfect. Now, stand over by that light switch and when I tell you to, flip the switch.

SPEAKER_18 23:05

That's it. Just flip it.

SPEAKER_20 23:09

That's it, son.

SPEAKER_18 23:11

What will this do anyway?

SPEAKER_20 23:13

You see, when an electrical current is passed through a diode, hence the light switch.

SPEAKER_18 23:19

Dad!

SPEAKER_20 23:21

We're going to generate a photon.

SPEAKER_18 23:24

A photon?

SPEAKER_20 23:25

Yes. Now, get into position.

SPEAKER_18 23:32

Okay, I'm ready. Flip it.

SPEAKER_20 23:42

Motherfuck! I mean Dad gummit.

SPEAKER_18 23:48

What happened?

SPEAKER_20 23:50

That would be the erbium. Which I thought would be a perfect conductor for the lazy wavelength of mission. But it was all for naught. Wanna take a ride?

SPEAKER_18 24:03

Where are we going?

SPEAKER_16 24:05

Willie's father, Dallas Ames, would bring his impressionable son to the district gym's rock and mineral store in Washington, D.C. Little would the manager or employees of the store know that within their walls walked a future movie star of the highest caliber.

SPEAKER_18 24:25

And what are we looking for again?

SPEAKER_20 24:27

We need a gem with high thermal conductivity and one that is chemically inert. If we can find one with a hardness of seven on the Mo scale, even better.

SPEAKER_18 24:37

Okay, so something tough. Got it.

SPEAKER_20 24:39

That's right. Very good.

SPEAKER_18 24:42

Wow, what about these?

SPEAKER_20 24:45

Hmm? Which one, son?

SPEAKER_18 24:46

Those golden ones are so pretty.

SPEAKER_20 24:48

They're yellow, technically speaking. More commonly blue, but yes, I think you might have something. Well, go ahead. Pick one. Nothing too perfect or smooth. We need one with a rough cut.

SPEAKER_18 25:00

Rough cut. Got it. How about this one?

SPEAKER_20 25:05

Yes. Yes, that may very well work. Excuse me, sir. Can I help you with something? Uh no. In fact, I think we found what we came for. I can take that for you. Keep it for you at the register. Oh. I see. No. That won't be necessary. We're just about finished here. Okay. Well, let's make it quick, shall we?

SPEAKER_18 25:38

What's his problem?

SPEAKER_20 25:40

Other than being an ignorant prick?

SPEAKER_18 25:43

Dad?

SPEAKER_20 25:44

Uh, don't tell your mom I said that.

SPEAKER_18 25:47

So what is it called? The gem?

SPEAKER_20 25:49

Oh, yes, yes, yes, the gem, right. It's called uh!

SPEAKER_04 25:55

You want it on set.

SPEAKER_16 25:58

It's 1981, and Willie is walking along the set of the very first Brock Gatling film, Brock Gatling, Six Smoking Barrels. Although a historic occasion in its own right, Willie has no idea that he is about to reunite with a childhood friend.

SPEAKER_03 26:19

Nice digs, right? I built it into your rider. Always have a top-of-the-line trailer.

SPEAKER_06 26:25

Yeah, it's nice, Maury.

SPEAKER_03 26:27

Uh, thank you. Willie, perk up, why don't you? You hit the big time. There's no telling where this could go. What gives?

SPEAKER_06 26:36

It's the scenes today. Have you read the sides? I read contracts. You read scripts. Look, I could do fight scenes, shoot all kinds of guns and stunt driving all day long, but this scene is calling for me to cry on cue.

SPEAKER_03 26:55

Well, sounds like you need the moss boss. Nope. Nothing? Okay.

SPEAKER_06 27:02

Uh, you said that like you were expecting something to happen.

SPEAKER_03 27:06

I mean the moss boss knows Meisner. Check off, and hey, you know, I was kinda hoping for a smash cut or something. Okay, try it again. Sounds like you need the moss boss.

SPEAKER_16 27:25

Clifford Moss, aka the Moss Boss, is an excellent and talented actor in his own right. But the life of a single father outweighed a path towards grits and glamour, choosing to raise his daughter rather than a life in the spotlight. This choice, however, gave way to a promising career as an acting coach.

SPEAKER_02 27:47

Maury, you know how much I hate that nickname. Where's the little one? My sister agreed to watch her, but I only have an hour. So where is our actor searching for motivation? Willie!

SPEAKER_03 28:00

We got the Marsboss here!

SPEAKER_02 28:02

Really, it's not a good nickname. It doesn't even really make sense. Clifford! I really appreciate you coming on such short notice. You're my prized pupil. Plus, this looks like the real deal. Gotta get this performance down. You wanna rehearse here? I'll leave you both to it.

SPEAKER_03 28:21

I think craft service just opened. Something called Huevos Rancheros is on the menu, and I must try it.

SPEAKER_06 28:29

Huevos Rancheros? What are the ingredients? Sausage patties and nose candy?

SPEAKER_03 28:35

I take offense to that, my friend. Everyone knows I'm a vegetarian.

SPEAKER_02 28:47

Okay, uh, you have the sides? Yeah. Here you go. Hmm. So Brock is being held at gunpoint by the villain, Nader Zane, where our hero learns that Nader was the one responsible for Brock's parents' deaths. Death by piranha. What a way to go. Then you relive your final moments with your parents and cry.

SPEAKER_06 29:16

Hmm. Yeah, that's the part. I've never had to cry on demand before. How much time do we have? They've already called me to set.

SPEAKER_02 29:24

Okay then, we're fast forwarding to the moss method. Moss method. I like it. First step. Hydrate. Drink a ton of water. Next, dabble in yoga. Stretch it out. The idea is to feel loose and really connect with your body. Do you know any yoga? I know the downward dog.

SPEAKER_03 29:43

Dopaz, Nij John said, 30 seconds.

SPEAKER_02 29:46

Okay. Time is of the essence. Then assume the position. Okay. How long? Yeah. Yoga is not for the feign of heart. A couple more seconds.

SPEAKER_05 30:04

The human body is not supposed to bend like this.

SPEAKER_03 30:14

Okay, uh right, uh so I'm obviously here too soon. I'll give you more time.

SPEAKER_02 30:22

Don't tell a soul, Maury. Willie, relax. Yoga is really starting to catch on. Okay. I feel loose. What's next? Okay. Next, when it's go time, don't blink. If you feel the urge, shallow breathe. Uh it tricks the body into tearing up. Or force a yawn. Try it. Yawn?

SPEAKER_06 30:46

A fake yawn?

SPEAKER_02 30:47

Yeah, just give it a go. Uh did he work? No fake yawns. You yawn weird. Okay, last shot. Dig deep. Find a real memory. Something that cuts or drop Brock into that heartbreak and feel it like it's yours. That's when the tears come. Can you think of any memory from your past you could draw from?

SPEAKER_16 31:18

Willie can think of such a memory. One he has long shut out of his consciousness. He thinks of the one who got away. The one he yearns for to this day.

SPEAKER_06 31:31

Yeah, there is one.

SPEAKER_02 31:33

She was uh the Oh oh, don't mention it. Just hold on to it, leave it just under the surface. And when the time is right, let it burst forth.

SPEAKER_06 31:48

Burst forth? Let it simmer until then, but don't lose it. Precisely.

SPEAKER_02 31:56

Yeah, ended the lesson. Now I have to relieve my sister before she disowns me. Feel good? Yeah, really good. No. You're supposed to feel like shit. Right.

SPEAKER_06 32:09

Utterly depressed. Thanks, Clifford.

SPEAKER_02 32:11

Moss boss. Oh god, don't let that catch on.

SPEAKER_03 32:18

Oh good. You're upright again, huh? I wasn't really comfortable having a conversation with your ass. We got lucky. Apparently, the actress they had cast to play the villain's assistant dropped out, but they had a backup, so you weren't the only cause of the delay. But uh, I bought all the time I could spare, so uh they really need you on set. You good?

SPEAKER_06 32:41

Nah, real shitty. Fucking miserable.

SPEAKER_16 32:53

Willie walks from his trailer and into the studio. He passes by the crew and executives. They all whisper as he strolls by. So, this is the new guy. He's our star. Yes, Carl Weathers wasn't available. He ignores the naysayers. This is the moment he's been waiting for to show the world. But even more so, his mother and father, Cleo and Dallas Ames. And their boy has finally made it. He holds his head high, walks onto the set, and immediately stands at his mark. The film's director walks over to Willie.

SPEAKER_04 33:38

Ah, Mr. Topez! You have arrived! Been to the costume and makeup yet?

SPEAKER_06 33:44

I do not think this is your wardrobe. No, Mr. Maxson. But I'm ready to do this. Let's go. Oh no, no, no, no, no, no, no, Mr. Maxon! Keefe! Just call me Keith! Yes, sir, Keith. I'm ready. It's Keith, not Keith. But that is neither you nor there. For I am suddenly aroused by your enthusiasm. Yes, yes. This is the look. Your face, it needs no makeup. It's perfect. Oh, it's made of a marble and a granite. It is so very hard and and a macho. Look at you. Oh, I could squeeze your cheeks.

SPEAKER_16 34:34

We roll. The acclaimed actor Caleb Barker enters the set, dressed in all black. The villain Nator Zayn, fully personified.

SPEAKER_06 34:50

Hey kid, so uh, I hear you're my arch enemy. Yes, and I must say it's a real honor.

SPEAKER_04 34:59

The honor is all mine, kid. You got the goods from what I hear. Hey, let's do this for us today, okay? Go out there and have some fun.

SPEAKER_06 35:08

Okay, I'm ready.

SPEAKER_04 35:11

Quiet on the set. Sound.

SPEAKER_00 35:14

Sound rolling?

SPEAKER_04 35:15

Camera. Camera's rolling.

SPEAKER_06 35:19

Okay, Mr. Topez. Let's make some magic together.

SPEAKER_11 35:23

Alright, scene 32, eh? Take one. Mark. Action.

SPEAKER_04 35:42

Well, well, well. It's the indomitable Brock Kapling standing before me. So to speak.

SPEAKER_06 35:53

Your reputation precedes you. Your stench precedes you. Oh, charming to the last, huh? Slap in. Always using others to get what you want. Never getting your hands dirty. Oh, I'm sure you view that as having power. But I see it as weak and cowardice. Oh, you do, do you? Well, you see, I am wealthy beyond my wildest dreams. Why do it myself when I can hire someone else to do it? You're all these scapegoats. Don't you see that? I don't understand how you could just sit there in your designer's suit and order an assault at the Pentagon. Destroy a village in Prague, or kill your parents? Fuck did you just say? What did you just say, you bastard? Oh yes. You see, they slept so very peacefully, unwillingly unconscious as they were. Then they became quite terrified. To wake up in a vat full of ferocious piranha. You're saying that was you? Well, as you so succinctly pointed out, I gave the order. You will see, Mr. Catling, that this time I will use my own hands. But they still won't get dirty. Bring in the chemist.

SPEAKER_05 37:46

You whack bastard son of a bitch! That was supposed to be the best vacation of their lives! My dad had finally retired. Both of them had worked so hard, saving every penny to finally take their dream trip to the Amazon. Oh, such noble people! Fillers of their community. They deserve to be honored, not torn apart.

SPEAKER_16 38:11

Willie knows that with the next line, tears must flow. He reaches back into his memories and unlocks an image he has tried to forget. A girl. The most kind and interesting person he had ever met. The one that got away. Lyric Dorsey, the one who had captured his heart all those years before, to his complete astonishment, now stood before him. She was the replacement actress for the scene, and she had now become a woman. There she was, his unrequited love, standing only a few feet away. An ominous-looking syringe in her hand, ready to inject a lethal dose into Brock Gatling's veins. Willie opens his mouth, his bottom lip quivers. He begins to tremble, and tears flow down his cheeks as he utters the defiant line.

SPEAKER_05 39:18

A king and queen amongst men. And I will be offense and the cut.

SPEAKER_04 39:40

Oh my goodness, ladies and gentlemen, I I think what we just witnessed was a performance in its rawest and the purest form. My eyelids are moist from my own tears.

SPEAKER_06 39:53

I say this with the utmost satisfaction and confidence. We can break for lunch, let's go. Lyric. Lyric Dorsey. Is that really you?

SPEAKER_09 40:14

Yes, it is. I wasn't sure if you'd recognize me.

SPEAKER_06 40:18

I've never forgot. You're not an easy person to forget. Um so you're an actor? I wouldn't have thought.

SPEAKER_09 40:29

I never gave it much thought in high school, even in theater class. I didn't get bitten by the bug until recently.

SPEAKER_06 40:37

Wow. Amazing. So how long are you with me, uh, with us on the shoot?

SPEAKER_09 40:44

Just a day player? Last minute replacement. Way different than you! You're the great rocketling. You're the face of this. I'm very proud of you, Willie. And I'm sure your parents are too.

SPEAKER_06 40:59

Oh, um, yes. They definitely are. So what are you doing now? I have a few scenes left today, but I'd love to catch up.

SPEAKER_09 41:09

Uh, you should join us tonight at the Eclipse Club. It's in the Arch District off uh Palmetto. My boyfriend will be performing some spoken word poetry there.

SPEAKER_06 41:20

Oh, uh, your boyfriend?

SPEAKER_09 41:23

Yeah, uh, he's here actually. He was hoping to meet you.

SPEAKER_16 41:33

Willie looks on with bewilderment as Lyric's so-called boyfriend strides onto the set. He's dressed in a faux fur coat and wingtip shoes. He has the facial expression of someone who has complete disdain by his surroundings. Willie extends a hand, but the man just smirks. He never returns the gesture or removes his sizable shades.

SPEAKER_09 41:59

This is Willie, my friend from high school, the one I told you about.

SPEAKER_06 42:03

It's nice to meet you. Sorry, I didn't catch your name. It's rhythm.

SPEAKER_16 42:09

Rhythm mercy.

SPEAKER_17 42:22

We were almost done. I'm sorry, my brother.

SPEAKER_16 42:27

It's just so funny. He may have had the career, but I got the girl.

SPEAKER_19 42:50

And that's a wrap on tonight's explosive adventure with Topaz and Stillman, starring Terry Brisco as Willie Topaz, Jim Frank as Laurie Stillman, Damon Alams as Rhythm Mercy, Lisa Stewart Lavon as Cleo Aides, John Scott as Dallas Aides, Diamondi Devereaux as Lyric Dorsey, Eric Carlino as Clifford Moss. For full credits, see our show notes. Topaz and Stillman, an 80s adventure, is a shoestring TV production written and directed by Jason Beard. Want more parties, hot rods, explosions, and condom commercials your mom would definitely disapprove of. Support us at patreon.com forward slash shoestring TV, or look for us anywhere you listen to podcasts. And don't touch that dial, because coming soon, episode two, The Cutting Room Part One. This is Mike Cunningham saying, stay tuned!