Shoestring TV presents a Topaz & Stillman Sneak Peek - "Rough Cut" (Pilot)

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://youtube.com/@shoestringtv7048?si=js5A-O
• https://www.facebook.com/ShoestringTV/
• https://x.com/ShoestringTv
• https://www.tiktok.com/@shoestringtv?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Concept by Jim Fronk & Terry Briscoe

Created, written, directed & mixed by Jason Beard

Transcript

Wake-Up Call And Award-Day Scramble

SPEAKER_11 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_14 0:53

I said I'm getting up.

SPEAKER_11 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 Tantus get out of! 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 huh. 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_14 1:34

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

SPEAKER_11 1:44

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

SPEAKER_14 1:50

Who schedules an award show this early in the morning?

SPEAKER_11 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. We can finish getting dressed, please. We can talk in the limo.

SPEAKER_14 2:07

We have a limo?

SPEAKER_11 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 Signori Club. Will you get dressed? Something formal, please. We can discuss your questionable life choices on the way out.

SPEAKER_14 2:27

You think my life choices are questionable.

SPEAKER_11 2:32

Just needed the extra thing. Now, get dressed.

SPEAKER_14 2:43

Oh yeah.

SPEAKER_11 2:46

Now that's a movie star! How the hell do 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_14 2:58

Maury, limo's waiting.

SPEAKER_11 3:02

Where the fuck is the limo? Oh, goddamn those seniories!

SPEAKER_14 3:07

Relax. I've got talent in the back.

SPEAKER_11 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_14 3:17

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

SPEAKER_11 3:24

Alright, alright. You have a point, okay, okay. But listen, listen. No need for Steve McQueen, alright? This isn't bullet. Ori chill out.

SPEAKER_14 3:34

I was trained by the best.

Turbo Firebird And Questionable Life Choices

SPEAKER_11 3:37

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

SPEAKER_14 3:52

Again, probably from the Zing. Hop in.

SPEAKER_11 3:59

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

SPEAKER_14 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_11 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_14 4:32

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

SPEAKER_04 4:48

I didn't even get to put the album!

SPEAKER_08 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 Briscoe as Willie Topaz, and Jim Frank as Maury Stillman. Written and directed by Jason Beard.

SPEAKER_14 6:06

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

SPEAKER_11 6:12

Hey, I'll have you know it was Huevos Rancheros. So a poor choice.

SPEAKER_14 6:18

What a what am I up for?

SPEAKER_11 6:21

Best car chase action sequence.

SPEAKER_14 6:24

For which movie?

SPEAKER_11 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_14 6:41

Uh Maury? What is it, Willie? You still have the helmet on.

SPEAKER_23 6:59

Car Chase Action Sequences. Willie Topin.

SPEAKER_11 7:16

Congratulations.

SPEAKER_14 7:18

We did it.

SPEAKER_11 7:20

How do I look? Look like you cracked up a bed an hour again, but you kidding. You look like a million bucks. You really freaking too bad. Don't crap that statuette!

SPEAKER_14 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 Bob 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_11 8:25

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

SPEAKER_14 8:35

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

SPEAKER_11 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_14 8:55

It's our night.

Backstage Tensions And A Prickly Interview

SPEAKER_21 9:03

Mr. Topaz, Jamie Burnham with Entertainment Worldwide. Thanks for sitting down with me. Congratulations on your win tonight.

SPEAKER_14 9:11

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

SPEAKER_21 9:18

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

SPEAKER_14 9:24

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

SPEAKER_21 9:31

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

SPEAKER_14 9:39

Uh I I didn't.

SPEAKER_21 9:41

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

SPEAKER_14 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_21 9:59

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

SPEAKER_14 10:07

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

Breaking News: Willie Topaz Is Dead

SPEAKER_26 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 Willy 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_24 11:05

His management had destroyed confirms. Sources close to the investigation report the murderer has been dubbed the Forever Mind Killer.

SPEAKER_21 11:15

A recent recipient of the Orion Action Assistant'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 moments, Willie was able to reconnect with his parents. Cleo and Dallas Ames.

SPEAKER_22 11:35

This is Rob Beckers with the Express family members. We reached out to his parents, Cleo and Dallas Ames, but they were unable to come. A representative for the family definitely this statement.

SPEAKER_23 11:52

It was a shiny stuff. It was a notion.

SPEAKER_07 12:05

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

SPEAKER_17 12:22

Oh, there he is.

unknown 12:24

Mr.

SPEAKER_17 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_11 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_17 12:49

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

SPEAKER_11 13:02

My response is don't believe everything you read personally. I'd rather watch a freshly squeezed turn screen than all the time I have. Sorry.

SPEAKER_16 13:21

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

Media Frenzy And Rumors Swirl

SPEAKER_01 13:36

Big news tonight: Rhythm Mercy has signed on to narrate the brand new book, The Rise of Willie. Yes, the same Rith of 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_18 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_03 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_18 14:28

And if I refuse.

SPEAKER_03 14:31

Hey hey. Rhythm.

SPEAKER_18 14:33

Mr. Mercy, if you please.

SPEAKER_03 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, Eddie? 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.

Decades Later: Rhythm Mercy’s Return

SPEAKER_18 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_03 15:48

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

SPEAKER_18 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 Winterholter 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 inventor, gave birth to a healthy seven-pound baby boy.

SPEAKER_19 17:14

Oh Dallas, look at him. Ha ha!

SPEAKER_09 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_19 17:30

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

SPEAKER_09 17:40

He definitely takes after you. Uh, Mr. and Mrs.

SPEAKER_08 17:43

Ames?

SPEAKER_19 17:44

Yes, Doctor. Is everything okay?

SPEAKER_08 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?

Recording The Biography: Day One

SPEAKER_09 17:56

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

SPEAKER_08 18:02

Clayton Dunbar Ames.

SPEAKER_07 18:04

That is one groovy name. Oh, my, uh, did you see this?

SPEAKER_18 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_09 18:30

Ha! Would you look at that? It's almost a perfect star. That's right, my son will be an astronaut, an astronomer.

SPEAKER_19 18:43

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

SPEAKER_18 18:55

It's 1959. Leo 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 building 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_19 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_06 19:46

Everyone is smiling.

SPEAKER_19 19:48

Would you like to go to the movies one day?

SPEAKER_06 19:50

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

SPEAKER_19 19:52

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

SPEAKER_06 19:57

Really? Who's the man? A picture.

SPEAKER_19 20:01

Oh, that's a movie poster. And the man on the poster is Cary 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.

SPEAKER_06 20:14

They get to play.

SPEAKER_19 20:16

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_06 20:26

Grown-ups can play pretend. Some grown-ups, yes. Probably not daddy.

SPEAKER_19 20:34

No, your dad prefers inventing to pretending.

SPEAKER_06 20:38

Mommy, you called him a star? Yes, that's what they're called. When they become famous. A star. Like my mark.

SPEAKER_19 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_06 21:05

Notor. notoriety?

SPEAKER_19 21:09

Notoriety. What do you think that means?

SPEAKER_06 21:13

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

SPEAKER_19 21:18

Okay, okay. Ice cream it is.

Birth, Destiny, And The Star-Shaped Mark

SPEAKER_18 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_03 21:43

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

SPEAKER_18 22:00

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_04 22:13

Leo!

unknown 22:14

Leo!

SPEAKER_19 22:15

Yes, honey.

SPEAKER_09 22:16

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

SPEAKER_19 22:22

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

SPEAKER_09 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_19 22:38

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

SPEAKER_09 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_06 23:05

That's it. Just flip it.

SPEAKER_09 23:09

That's it, son.

SPEAKER_06 23:11

What will this do anyway?

SPEAKER_09 23:13

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

SPEAKER_06 23:19

Dad.

SPEAKER_09 23:21

We're going to generate a photon.

SPEAKER_06 23:24

A photon?

SPEAKER_09 23:25

Yes. Now, get into position.

SPEAKER_06 23:32

Okay, I'm ready. Flip it.

SPEAKER_09 23:42

Motherfu Mmm. I mean Dad gummit.

SPEAKER_06 23:48

What happened?

SPEAKER_09 23:50

That would be the Erbium. Which I thought would be a perfect conductor for the lasing wavelength of mission. What? It was all for naught. Wanna take a ride?

SPEAKER_06 24:03

Where are we going?

SPEAKER_18 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_06 24:25

And what are we looking for again?

SPEAKER_09 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_06 24:37

Okay. So something tough. Got it.

SPEAKER_09 24:39

That's right. Very good.

SPEAKER_06 24:42

Wow, what about these?

SPEAKER_09 24:45

Hmm? Which one, son?

SPEAKER_06 24:46

Those golden ones are so pretty.

SPEAKER_09 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_06 25:00

Rough cut. Got it. How about this one?

U Street Dreams And The First Movie Star

SPEAKER_09 25:05

Yes. Yes, that may very well work. Excuse me, sir. Can I help you with something? Hmm? 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_06 25:38

What's his problem?

SPEAKER_09 25:40

Other than being an ignorant prick?

SPEAKER_06 25:43

Dad?

SPEAKER_09 25:44

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

SPEAKER_06 25:47

So what is it called? The gem?

SPEAKER_09 25:49

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

SPEAKER_17 25:55

You want it on set.

SPEAKER_18 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_11 26:19

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

SPEAKER_14 26:25

Yeah, it's nice, Maury.

SPEAKER_11 26:27

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

SPEAKER_14 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_11 26:55

Well, sounds like you need the moss boss. No, nothing? Okay.

SPEAKER_14 27:02

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

SPEAKER_11 27:06

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

SPEAKER_18 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 glitz 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_10 27:46

Morey, 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?

SPEAKER_11 27:59

Willie, we got the Mars boss here.

The Gem Store And Rough Cut Origin

SPEAKER_10 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 want to rehearse here? I'll leave you both to it.

SPEAKER_11 28:21

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

SPEAKER_14 28:29

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

SPEAKER_11 28:35

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

SPEAKER_10 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_14 29:16

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

SPEAKER_10 29:23

They've already called me to set. 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_11 29:43

Dopez, Nij John said. 30 seconds.

SPEAKER_10 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_15 30:04

The human body is not supposed to bend like this.

unknown 30:10

Willie.

SPEAKER_11 30:14

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

SPEAKER_14 30:22

Don't tell a soul, Maury.

SPEAKER_10 30:25

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_14 30:46

A fake yawn?

SPEAKER_10 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_18 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_14 31:31

Yeah, there is one.

SPEAKER_10 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_14 31:48

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

1981 Set: Crying On Cue Crisis

SPEAKER_10 31:57

Endeth 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. Utterly depressed. Thanks, Clifford. Moss boss. Oh god, don't let that catch on.

SPEAKER_11 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_14 32:41

Nah. Real shitty. Fucking miserable.

SPEAKER_18 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 stock. 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_13 33:38

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

SPEAKER_14 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 Keefe! Yes, sir, Keefe. I'm ready. It's Keefe, not Keefe.

SPEAKER_12 34:05

But that is neither here nor there. For I am suddenly aroused by your enthusiasm. Yes, yes. This is the look. Your face it. It needs no makeup. It's perfect. Oh, it's made of a marble and a granite and it is so very hard and and a macho. Look at you. Oh, I could squeeze your cheeks.

SPEAKER_18 34:34

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

The Moss Method For Real Tears

SPEAKER_14 34:50

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

SPEAKER_16 35:01

You got the goods from what I hear. Hey, let's do this for us today, okay? Go out there and have some fun. Okay, I'm ready. Quiet on the set. Sound.

SPEAKER_20 35:14

Sound rolling?

SPEAKER_16 35:15

Camera.

SPEAKER_23 35:17

Camera's rolling.

SPEAKER_20 35:19

Okay, Mr. Top has let to make some magic together.

SPEAKER_23 35:23

All right, scene 32, eh? Take one. Mark. Action.

SPEAKER_13 35:42

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

SPEAKER_14 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 as 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.

SPEAKER_12 37:27

You will see, Mr. Catling, that this time I will use my own hands. But they still won't get dirty.

SPEAKER_02 37:44

Bring in the chemist.

On Set With Nader Zane And Breakthrough

SPEAKER_15 37:46

You rat 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! Villars of their community. They deserve to be honored, not torn apart.

SPEAKER_18 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_15 39:18

A king and queen amongst men.

SPEAKER_13 39:49

My eyelids are moist from my own tears.

SPEAKER_12 39:53

I say this with the utmost satisfaction and confidence. We can Break up for lunch, let's go!

SPEAKER_14 40:06

Lyric. Lyric Dorsey. Is that really you?

SPEAKER_25 40:13

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

SPEAKER_14 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_25 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_14 40:37

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

SPEAKER_25 40:44

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

SPEAKER_14 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.

unknown 41:08

Oh!

SPEAKER_25 41:09

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

SPEAKER_14 41:20

Oh, uh, your boyfriend.

SPEAKER_25 41:23

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

SPEAKER_18 41:33

Willie looks on with bewilderment as Larry'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_25 41:59

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

SPEAKER_14 42:03

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

SPEAKER_18 42:09

Rhythm mercy.

SPEAKER_03 42:20

Hey, what are you doing? We were almost done. I'm sorry, my brother.

Reunion With Lyric And A New Rival

SPEAKER_18 42:27

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

SPEAKER_08 42:57

Starring Terry Briscoe as Willie Topaz. Jim Frank as Laurie Stillman. Damon Alams as Rhythm Mercy. Lisa Stewart Levon as Cleo Aides. John Scott as Dallas Aides. Diamondi Devereaux as Lyric Darcy. 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!