All About Eve 'Uncut' — The Cold War
by AAEfanatic
Episode 12B
SCENE: ON River Station, night
SCENE: MBS conference room, afternoon
SCENE: MBS NEWs Center, afternoon
SCENE: MBS corridor, afternoon
SCENE: Sun-Mi’s bedroom, morning
SCENE: MBS conference room, morning
SCENE: Announcer 1 Team office, late afternoon
SCENE: MBS radio studio, night
SCENE: Hyung-Chul’s office, night
SCENE: Announcer 1 Team office, morning
SERIES OF SCENES: Multiple locations, morning
SCENE:Announcer 1 Team office, afternoon
SCENE: Executive conference room, afternoon
SCENE: MBS corridor, afternoon
SCENE: Madame Kim’s boutique, night
SCENE: Madame Kim’s boutique, night
SCENE: Hyung-Chul’s and Sun-Mi's bedrooms, night
Act 2
SCENE: ON River Station, night
“I want you... to marry me...”
Hyung-Chul stares at Joo-Hee when he hears this.
Joo-Hee............ What? We agreed that you owed me bigtime...
Hyung-Chul....... But, a wedding? That’ wasn’t part of our agreement...
Joo-Hee looks at him, a bit exasperated.
Joo-Hee............ But to remain credibly ‘engaged’ we have to announce a wedding date sometime...
Joo-Hee takes a sip of her wine, and then the corners of her mouth curl up slightly as she muses...
Joo-Hee............ I’ve always wanted a June wedding... and that means we need to pick out a gown at Madame Kim’s soon...
Hyung-Chul....... You really want to take it that far?
Joo-Hee............ Why not? This might be my only chance, and I want to have the entire experience.
Hyung-Chul....... Excepting the actual wedding, of course...
Joo-Hee eyes him carefully, gauging the inflection in his words, before she replies.
Joo-Hee............ Of course...
SCENE: MBS conference room, afternoon
THE NEXT DAY...
The entire Announcer 1 Team is gathered in a conference room for a meeting in progress...
Sun-Dal............ And Sweeps month is just around the corner. Let’s go over everyone’s assignments... Young-Mi?
Young-Mi.......... I’ve scheduled interviews for the documentary on the state of children’s health care. I need a cameraman.
Sun-Dal............ Check with the reporters’ pool, to see who is available.
Young-Mi.......... Yes...
Sun-Dal............ Shin Ki-Jong? Any progress on the sports gambling story?
Ki-Jong............. (glares at Jin-Soo) I’d have finished already, except I’m stymied by an obstinate blockhead.
Jin-Soo............. (muttering to himself) Who are you calling a blockhead?
Sun-Dal............ Have it done by Friday, okay? Reporter Kim? Your followup into the illegal booze investigation?
Woo-Jin............ (sighs) Since the police raided the club we were watching, everything has gone quiet...
Sun-Dal............ (encouragingly) Give it another chance before pulling the plug. We’ve invested too much to just drop it.
Woo-Jin............ Sure, we’ll try it again.
Sun-Dal............ Lee Kyung-Hee, did you decide on a business story to cover?
Kyung-Hee........ I have three good options for the presentation tomorrow.
Sun-Dal............ (nods) Good, well done... Sun-Mi, what about your program? Any ideas?
Sun-Mi.............. Not yet, but I’m working on it.
Young-Mi.......... Why bother to beat a dead horse?
Kyung-Hee........ (scoldingly) Huh Young-Mi!
Young-Mi.......... I’m just saying we shouldn’t have high expectations, so there’s less disappointment.
Kyung-Hee........ How do we know it won’t work out?
Young-Mi.......... Has anything Sun-Mi done ever turned out successful?
After Young-Mi’s blunt criticism, the tension in the room is stretched to the breaking point.
Sun-Dal............ (clears his throat) Let’s move on... Joo-Hee?
Joo-Hee is staring out the window, not paying attention.
Sun-Dal............ (louder) Announcer Yoo Joo-Hee?
Joo-Hee............ (startled) Oh... What was the question?
Sun-Dal checks his watch, and notes the time.
Sun-Dal............ We’ll take this up again, tomorrow. Thanks for your hard work.
All.................... Yes...
They all stand to leave and file out of the room, as Sun-Dal turns to Joo-Hee.
Sun-Dal............ I’d like a word...
SCENE: MBS NEWs Center, afternoon
Joo-Hee and Sun-Dal are sitting in the empty News Center, with paper vending coffee cups on the newsdeck.
Joo-Hee............ I still remember my first newscast. I was so nervous I almost choked up.
Sun-Dal............ But you didn't. You were a true pro from Day 1. So what's with you lately?
Joo-Hee............ Nothing... I just have a lot on my mind.
Sun-Dal............ I thought since you've set a wedding date, things were going better.
Joo-Hee............ (sad smile) Is that how it looks?
Sun-Dal shows surprise.
Sun-Dal............ But isn't this what you've wanted for years?
Joo-Hee............ Yes. But now that I’m getting what I want, I'm not sure I want what I’m getting...
Sun-Dal............ What do you mean?
Joo-Hee............ (sighs) I’m beginning to realize that Hyung-Chul... isn't the same man now that I fell in love with then.
Sun-Dal............ If there’s something between you two, can’t you work it out?
Joo-Hee............ I thought so. But the closer I try to be, the farther we seem apart.
....................... I want to be happy with him, I want him to be happy with me, but it seems that neither of us are happy now.
SCENE: MBS corridor, afternoon
THE NEXT AFTERNOON...
As the elevator doors open on 7F, Hyung-Chul sees Sun-Mi passing by.
Quickly he steps out and hustles to catch up with her. Hearing someone approaching from behind, she turns to look...
Sun-Mi.............. (surprised) Director?
Hyung-Chul....... Do you have a moment?
Sun-Mi.............. I’m on my way to the radio studio...
Hyung-Chul....... Then, I won’t hold you up. Shall we?
He motions and they start walking together down the corridor...
Hyung-Chul....... I thought we were past ‘Director’ now?
Sun-Mi shows a half-smile instead of a reply, and he does not press the point.
A man passing greets Hyung-Chul with a polite nod, and he motions back.
As soon as he is out of earshot, Hyung-Chul picks up on his conversation with Sun-Mi...
Hyung-Chul....... How is it going... your program?
Sun-Mi.............. You mean how will I raise the ratings? (sighs) Maybe it's hopeless...
Hyung-Chul....... Don’t overthink it. Just go with your natural instincts.
They turn a corner and arrive at the radio studio. The corridor is empty when they stop at the door.
Sun-Mi.............. Well... we're on air in a couple of minutes.
Hyung-Chul....... I know.
Sun-Mi.............. I heard Joo-Hee set a wedding date. Congratulations... I truly wish you both the best of happiness together...
Hyung-Chul....... Thank you.
Sun-Mi.............. I'm sorry I can't attend. It’s my birthday, and Daddy always takes me to dinner. Our tradition, every year...
Hyung-Chul....... Sure. That's important, too.
Sun-Mi.............. Senior?
When he hears her say this, his heart skips a beat, and Hyung-Chul looks at Sun-Mi with surprise. She smiles back...
Sun-Mi.............. There's no reason that we have to hold a grudge between us any longer, is there?
Hyung-Chul....... Not if you say so... I’m sorry that in these past months, all that happened...
Sun-Mi.............. It takes two to make a fight. I have my share of responsibility for what happened, too.
Hyung-Chul....... Then... we're still friends, aren't we?
Sun-Mi.............. (smiles slightly) If you still take me as your friend.
Hyung-Chul offers his hand. Sun-Mi takes it, and they shake.
Hyung-Chul....... (jokingly) Now I don’t have to be afraid to walk into the Announcers’ Office.
Sun-Mi.............. (jokingly) I’ll still call a hypocrite a hypocrite, so don’t think you can get away with just anything!
They share a laugh, and then look at each other a bit awkwardly, searching for something more to say.
Sun-Mi looks away, focusing her eyes through the observation window into the empty studio, where she will be broadcasting shortly.
Sun-Mi.............. Since I met you... I learned to be stronger, to trust myself more; I've come this far, because you were by my side...
She looks at Hyung-Chul, and he sees the seriousness in her eyes for what she is about to say...
Sun-Mi.............. But from now on, I’ll make my own way, so you needn’t worry about me... you have someone else to worry about...
....................... I want you to know, I've really valued our friendship... but I'm not sure we can be friends like that anymore...
The door to the radio studio opens, and the Program Director sticks her head out.
PD................... There you are, Sun-Mi! Everyone is waiting; let’s get started...
The PD goes back inside, and Sun-Mi turns to Hyung-Chul to finish what she wanted to tell him...
Sun-Mi.............. What happened the other day was an accident; I really didn’t mean to call you. So please don't call me anymore,
....................... or try to talk to me like this today... For now, until I've sorted things out, please leave me alone.
Hyung-Chul....... Okay, but if it's not an imposition, I’ll drop you a postcard, now and then, if only for old times’ sake?
Sun-Mi.............. (hastily) Sure... Umm... I gotta go... See ya...
Sun-Mi escapes into the studio and takes her seat at the microphone.
Hyung-Chul watches her through the observation window. Before he leaves, he sends off a telepathic message... ‘Fighting!’
Sun-Mi looks up from her script, her brow wrinkled as if a passing thought had just struck her.
Then as she returns to reading, she raises a clenched fist and silently mouths ... ‘Fighting!”
SCENE: MBS atrium, afternoon
Sun-Mi and Cho-Jeh are sharing a coffee break in the atrium, seated on one of the brick planters as they talk.
Cho-Jeh............ How is it going?
Sun-Mi.............. The radio program? Not so well...
Cho-Jeh............ I meant about Director Yoon.
Joo-Hee is walking past, when she overhears ‘Director Yoon’. She stops, out of their sight, to listen.
Sun-Mi.............. Today I told him that I don’t want to see him, or talk to him anymore, until I‘ve figured things out.
Cho-Jeh............ What do you have to figure out?
Sun-Mi.............. Because every day, I tell myself that we’re through, that it’s a fact he’s married to someone else...
Sun-Mi puts her hand over her heart...
Sun-Mi.............. (continuing, sadly) but deep in my heart... there is this sense that it just isn’t true... that our fate is to be together...
Cho-Jeh............ (impressed) Wow, that’s so romantic!
Sun-Mi.............. What good is unrequited love? It’s only a burden to carry until the day you die.
Cho-Jeh............ Still, I wish I had a Prince I felt that way about. (sighs) But I don’t even have a Fairy Godmother...
Sun-Mi.............. (sadly) In real life, there are no Fairy Godmothers, no Ballgowns, and Cinderella never gets the Prince...
Cho-Jeh............ (sadly) Yeah... that’s why reality bites.
As Joo-Hee walks off, she has an idea and smiles...
Joo-Hee............ (quietly) No Fairy Godmothers? No ballgowns? We’ll see about that...
SCENE: Sun-Mi’s bedroom, morning
THE NEXT MORNING, BEFORE DAWN...
Sun-Mi is working at the desk in her bedroom, writing on a pad of paper. An empty coffee cup and plate are beside her.
Dozens of crumpled sheets of paper litter the floor around the desk.
Frustration lines her face as she rips the top sheet from the pad, crumples it in her hands, and tosses it aside.
Sun-Mi.............. (sighs) What I need is a new idea.
She lets her eyes wander, over the pictures on her walls, knick-knacks on her bedside tables, and along her bookshelves.
Her eyes stop on a small box on the top shelf. Sun-Mi looks at the box, brow creased as if a thought has just popped into her mind.
Sun-Mi brings the box down from the shelf to her desk, and removes the lid to reveal it filled with picture postcards and greeting cards.
She picks up the card on the top, reminiscing as she re-reads the message...
|
FLASHBACK [Scene from Episode 11]
|
|
||
|
|
|
|
|
|
“To Sun-Mi. you did a great job today. You’re one of a kind. Keep up the good work – Y”
|
|
||
She puts the card back, and takes out a picture postcard of Big Ben. On the back is a handwritten note from Hyung-Chul.
The card prompts a memory of her conversation with him from earlier that evening:
“...I’ll still drop you a postcard, now and then...”
Suddenly her eyes sparkle.
Sun-Mi.............. (to herself) Of course! It’s so simple, why didn’t I think of it before?
SCENE: MBS conference room, morning
THAT AFTERNOON...
Sun-Mi is in a conference room with Sun-Dal, Joo-Hee, Kyung-Hee, and Ki-Jong, giving a presentation using an overhead projector.
Sun-Dal............ Love songs?
Sun-Mi.............. Yes. These are some of the successful concepts in other countries.
Sun-Mi puts up a new slide on the screen, showing a graph with several colored lines.
Sun-Mi.............. Steve Wright’s “Sunday Love Songs” on BBC Radio 2. And in America, “Delilah After Dark” has 30 million listeners.
Joo-Hee............ But are there are really that many lovelorn young women in Seoul for the market share?
Ki-Jong............. (jokingly) Don’t the young lovelorn men count, too?
Joo-Hee............ Are you speaking for yourself?
Ki-Jong reacts with a surprised expression. Kyung-Hee covers a smile.
Sun-Dal............ Okay, I see the potential, but it’s hardly a unique format. How will you distinguish your program from the others?
Sun-Mi holds up a small rectangular card, with a scenic picture printed on one side.
Sun-Mi.............. Postcards!
Ki-Jong............. Regular postcards? I don’t get it.
Sun-Mi.............. Instead of call-ins or texts, I’ll only accept postcards from listeners wanting to share their stories on the air.
Joo-Hee............ Isn’t that a bit old-fashioned? I thought young people were all into texting these days.
Sun-Mi.............. Studies show that although people are more ‘connected’ than ever, they lack personal contact more than before.
Kyung-Hee........ She’s right. People are looking for a human touch among all the electronic clutter.
Sun-Mi.............. A handwritten postcard carries a personal connection in an emotional way that electronic messages can’t convey.
Kyung-Hee........ Why not give Sun-Mi’s idea a chance?
Sun-Dal............ Joo-Hee?
Joo-Hee............ (grudgingly) All right. The postcard angle is corny enough it might actually work. Anyway, it can’t do any worse.
Sun-Mi is excited that everyone is behind her idea, even Joo-Hee.
Sun-Dal............ (nods approval) Then it’s a consensus.
Kyung-Hee........ What about an ad campaign?
Sun-Dal............ Without revenue, Marketing won’t want to spend much. We’ll have to get the ratings up first.
Ki-Jong............. So to get advertising to increase the ratings, Sun-Mi has to increase the ratings to get advertising?
Sun-Dal............ (shrugs) I didn’t say the system made any sense...
Sun-Mi.............. (musing) I can plug it during the Time Casts for free... But we’ll need a new name, so people will notice...
Ki-Jong............. (joking) How about “Snail-Mail Love Songs?”
Kyung-Hee........ I have a better one: “Love Songs and Postcards”
Joo-Hee............ It should be short and snappy, something like ‘Music Postcards’.
Sun-Dal............ ‘Midnight Music Postcards’? ... Sun-Mi, what do you think?
Sun-Mi.............. (beaming smile) Senior, it’s perfect!
SCENE: Announcer 1 Team office, late afternoon
Kyung-Hee is in the announcers’ office with Sun-Mi and Young-Mi.
Kyung-Hee........ Your new program format debuts tonight?
Sun-Mi.............. (glumly) Yes.
Kyung-Hee........ How was the response?
Sun-Mi.............. After a whole week, only these.
She holds up a handful of postcards.
At her desk across from Sun-Mi’s, Young-Mi looks up with a sidelong glance and smirks.
Kyung-Hee........ Give it time. At least you have something for your first broadcast, right?
Sun-Mi.............. (sighs) And I thought it was such a good idea. Now, I don’t know. What if it bombs?
Kyung-Hee........ I’m leaving first. Good luck.
Kyung-Hee stops by Sun-Mi’s desk and pats Sun-Mi on the shoulder.
Sun-Mi.............. (smiles) Thanks.
Kyung-Hee leaves the office.
Young-Mi.......... Did you really think anyone would mail a postcard these days? How old-fashioned can you be?
Sun-Mi.............. (tight-lipped) That’s me, all right, old-fashioned...
SCENE: MBS radio studio, night
Sun-Mi settles into her chair in the radio studio and puts on her headphones. She starts arranging her script pages for the program.
Meanwhile, in the control room, the producers are performing their final equipment checks.
Producer........... Ten seconds to air. Are you ready, Sun-Mi?
Sun-Mi nods.
The digital clock ticks down 3... 2... 1... and the ON AIR light comes on.
Bumper music for the program, Brian Crain’s “Northern Lights” starts playing in the background.
Sun-Mi starts off by reading the intro in her soft, warm voice.
Sun-Mi.............. (reading script) Good evening, you’re listening to 95.9, MBS Music Radio...
....................... This is ‘Midnight Music Postcards’... and I am Jin Sun-Mi, your host for tonight...
SCENE: Hyung-Chul’s office, night
Hyung-Chul is working late in his office, tie is off and shirt sleeves are rolled up as he tackles a stack of paperwork.
An open container of Chinese carryout is on his desk, and an empty paper cup of vending coffee.
While he works, he listens to Sun-Mi on the radio.
Sun-Mi.............. Next, a card from Hee-Young. Her handwriting is neat and precise; you can see she is a conscientious person.
....................... After an argument, she and her boyfriend cut all communication. Now she worries she was too harsh and stubborn...
Hyung-Chul looks up briefly to think, and then continues working.
Sun-Mi.............. Friends, you can’t force the one you love to love you... (sniffs)... it takes two to make... (sniffs)... love work...
The radio is silent for several seconds. Hyung-Chul looks up, concerned.
Sun-Mi.............. I’m sorry, there’s something in my eyes, it’s hard to read... (sniffs)... Dear friend, I’ll leave you with a thought...
Hyung-Chul puts down his pen to listen.
Sun-Mi.............. Don’t be afraid to reach out to the one you love. That person, right now, might be reaching back ... (voice breaks) ...
Several seconds of silence follow.
Sun-Mi.............. I chose this special song for you... (sniffs)... I hope it touches your heart as it has mine...
Soft music starts playing on the radio...
Hyung-Chul’s brow furrows as he ponders Sun-Mi’s words.
SCENE: Announcer 1 Team office, morning
ONE WEEK LATER...
Shin Ki-Jong rushes into the Announcers’ office, waving a report in his hand.
Ki-Jong............. Hey, Sun-Mi!
The entire office stops work to give him their attention. Ki-Jong heads straight to Sun-Mi’s desk.
On her desk is a mail tray half-filled with post cards and letters that she is sorting through.
Ki-Jong............. The latest ratings report!
Sun-Mi.............. What?
Ki-Jong............. Your program is up again this week! Look here...
Ki-Jong hands the report to Sun-Mi. Sun-Mi is astonished as she checks the ratings.
Sun-Mi.............. (happily surprised) Doubled? I can’t believe it!
Kyung-Hee........ (cheerfully) What did I tell you, Sun-Mi? It just took some time.
Sun-Dal appears at the office doorway.
Sun-Dal............ (grinning) You’d better believe it. Advertising Sales has a line of sponsors clamoring for air time now.
....................... And Marketing has just authorized a full saturation ad campaign for the sweeps. You’re going big-time!
Jin-Soo............. (joking) Wow! We have a real celebrity now! I can see the headlines: Jin Sun-Mi, Queen of Evening Radio!
Sun-Mi smiles and blushes, embarrassed by Jin-Soo’s accolades, but happy at how things are finally coming together for her.
Sun-Mi.............. (modestly) It's hardly a reason to be called a “celebrity”...
Sun-Dal............ Why not? PR wants a photoshoot for the poster ads. You’re also the next cover girl for MBS Guide Magazine.
....................... The interview is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon. Don't be late...
Sun-Mi.............. (nods, smiling) Yes, Team Leader, I’ll be prepared.
Sun-Dal............ Okay, that’s enough. Let’s all get back to work!
Sun-Dal leaves the office, and Sun-Mi returns to her work, sorting postcards from the mail tray.
Joo-Hee gets up from her desk, picks up some papers, and heads for the office door. However, she pauses at Sun-Mi’s desk first.
Sun-Mi notices and looks up, still smiling.
Sun-Mi.............. Senior?
Joo-Hee............ (seriously) Don’t let your head get too big over this. They say: “What’s ‘Hot’ today may be ‘Not’ tomorrow”, right?
At the rebuke, Sun-Mi immediately drops her smile.
Sun-Mi.............. Yes, Senior. I’ll remember that.
Joo-Hee............ (smiles) You’ve worked hard. Congratulations...
Sun-Mi.............. (smiling again) Thanks...
SCENE: Seoul street, morning
SEVERAL DAYS LATER...
Driving to work, Young-Mi stops at a traffic light. She notices, on the bus shelter at the corner, a new poster ad...
Young-Mi stares at the poster, not believing what her eyes plainly see. A deep frown creases her face.
A stream of pedestrians is crossing the street on the crosswalk in front of Young-Mi’s car.
Several of the young women are carrying distinctive shopping bags...
Young-Mi’s knuckles turn white as she clenches her grip on the steering wheel and grits her teeth in resentment.
A bus pulls up to the stop and idles while passengers board and get down. Affixed to the side of the bus is a large banner:
Young-Mi turns away and revs the engine impatiently, anxious to escape the reminder of the unexpected success of her rival.
The signal changes and the cars move through the intersection, only to stall in a traffic jam that stretches as far as Young-Mi can see.
She glances to the side again; the bus had kept even pace with her car.
Caught in traffic, she is also stuck with Sun-Mi’s smiling face taunting her!
Young-Mi turns on the car radio as a distraction.
The mellow instrumental music of Brian Crain’s “Northern Lights” plays from the car speakers, fading off to background volume...
Sun-Mi.............. (on radio) Tired of the daily grind? Looking for that special someone?
....................... Don’t lose hope; you’re not alone. This is MBS Announcer Jin Sun-Mi...
....................... Let’s travel the road of life and love together on “Midnight Music Postcards”...
....................... Weeknights on MBS Music Radio 95.9 F...
Anger twists Young-Mi’s face as she snaps off the radio. In sheer frustration, she lays on the car horn repeatedly...
SERIES OF SCENES: Multiple locations, morning
A WEEK LATER...
In Hyung-Chul’s office
Hyung-Chul walks into his office at 7 am, places his briefcase on his desk, and removes his jacket, hanging it on the coat rack.
Reaching to open his case, he sees several newspapers left on the desk by his assistant.
He sits down and picks one up of the papers. He smiles as he reads the headline:
LEADING LADY FOR THE LOVELORN
MBS’ Jin Sun-Mi Soothes Seoul with ‘Music Postcards’
At Mrs. Song’s convenience store
Sun-Mi’s aunt, Song Jin-Suk, is chatting with a customer at the checkout counter as she shows him a newspaper with Sun-Mi’s picture.
Jin-Suk............. Hey! She’s practically like my daughter, you know.
Customer.......... Oh?
Jin-Suk............. (reading) The new program format has unexpectedly made Music Postcards into Seoul’s hit nighttime radio show.
....................... It’s a spoonful of medicine for the heart, poured over the airwaves in Jin Sun-Mi’s mellow, smooth-as-honey voice...
In a café, not far from MBS
Jo Cho-Jeh reads from the same article over a full breakfast in a cozy café booth with Choi Jin-Soo.
Cho-Jeh............ (reading) Postcards isn’t your typical Love Songs call-in program; in fact, listener call-ins aren’t even taken.
....................... Contrary to our fast-paced, electronic society, Jin Sun-Mi accepts only hand-written, ‘snail-mail’ cards and letters...
In the MBS announcer’s makeup room
Sun-Dal sits on the edge of the makeup table, reading the newspaper aloud as Joo-Hee touches up her face.
Sun-Dal............ (reading) Announcer Jin explained her reasoning at a casual interview over coffee one afternoon...
....................... “Radio is an intimate medium – but it’s a one-way intimacy, with little feedback to the program host.
....................... Some might consider postcards old-fashioned, but rather than words which are gone instantly, a letter is forever.
....................... It's a different type of intimacy between two people, as if I’m there with a dear friend, not doing a broadcast.”
Sun-Dal puts down the paper.
Sun-Dal............ Last night’s poll moved Sun-Mi to first place for the time slot.
Joo-Hee............ (smiles genuinely) Really? Good for her.
Sun-Dal............ (surprised) I thought Young-Mi was your favorite.
Joo-Hee............ Don’t misunderstand. I just don’t like to see someone being stepped on.
In a construction company office, outside Seoul
Construction workers in dusty uniforms and hardhats cluster around Gwi-Sung as he points to Sun-Mi’s picture in the newspaper.
Gwi-Sung.......... Listen to this: (reading ) To a question about fans, she replied: “How does it feel to have so many ardent supporters?
....................... I’m grateful for each one, but actually my Daddy was my number one fan from the very first day.”
Gwi-Sung.......... (grinning from ear-to-ear) That’s ME she’s talking about! She’s my daughter I’ve been telling you about.
Lead Worker...... It can’t be! Where’d she get such good looks?
Worker............. (joking) Certainly can’t be her old man! Maybe she was adopted?
The workers laugh together at their boss’ expense. Gwi-Sung joins in, too.
In the MBS employee canteen
Kyung-Hee and Ki-Jong are having a coffee break as they share the newspaper.
Kyung-Hee........ (reading) Responding to a question about her recent removal from the 7PM News, Jin reflected philosophically:
....................... “Every change presents a new opportunity, if a person is willing to chance it. This setback became my opportunity.
....................... I’ve fulfilled my dream of delivering encouragement and hope to people. I don’t regret anything that happened.”
Ki-Jong............. Hey, let me see that.
He grabs the paper from Kyung-Hee’s hands and continues reading the article.
Ki-Jong............. (reading) Jin’s ‘girl-next-door’ charm and infectious positive attitude win over the hearts of new listeners each night.
....................... So it’s no wonder that Midnight Musical Postcards is growing a loyal audience share in the Seoul radio market.
Kyung-Hee........ (smiling) I knew Sun-Mi could do it!
Ki-Jong............. (laughing) But I knew it first!
SCENE:MBS main lobby, morning
Young-Mi strides into the studio building through the revolving door, and starts across the lobby towards the elevators.
But confronting her is another large poster advertising Sun-Mi's new radio program format...
Young-Mi, flying into a rage, picks up her pace to cross the foyer as quickly as possible...
SCENE:MBS rooftop, morning
Young-Mi paces across the MBS office building rooftop, stewing up a froth of barely-controlled fury.
Young-Mi.......... (loudly, to herself) I hate you, Jin Sun-Mi! You may have all the luck now, but...
She raises a fist and shakes it in the air.
Young-Mi.......... I swear I’ll beat you in the end! And once I destroy you... I’ll have everything that’s rightfully mine!
SCENE:Announcer 1 Team office, afternoon
Sun-Mi comes into the office and places her bag onto her desk. Then she notices a folded newspaper on the desktop.
Curious, she picks the paper up and unfolds it to reveal the headline:
JIN SUN-MI: SEOUL’S GODDESS OF LOVE
MBS Hits a High Note With New Music & Postcards Format
Someone had taken a black marker and drawn a wide “X” over the word “LOVE”, then handwritten the word “LUCK” above it.
As she stares at the paper, her face showing a mix of emotions, Young-Mi walks in.
Sun-Mi shows her the marked-up headline.
Sun-Mi.............. (angrily) Why not just admit it to my face if you’re jealous? Why play these childish games?
Young-Mi.......... (indifferently) Did I? Actually, it doesn't matter to me at all. Our skill level isn’t even comparable.
....................... I rely on my talent, I have no idea what you have to rely on. Why should I compare myself to you?
Young-Mi goes to her desk and sits to work on her computer, ignoring Sun-Mi.
At the snub, Sun-Mi glares at Young-Mi, but doesn’t try to cut back. Instead she refolds the paper and drops it into her bag
Without another word, she stalks out of the office in a huff.
Youn-Mi looks up from her work, ans smiles to herself...
SCENE: Executive conference room, afternoon
Video from the opening of a program is playing on the screen in a conference room.
Hyung-Chul stands at the podium, giving a presentation on his new morning program concept.
The directors listen as he talks, showing various expressions at what they are hearing.
Hyung-Chul....... The program you are watching is called Eve’s Morning. It is totally different from previous morning talk shows.
....................... It will have a more professional theme, and not deal with tabloid or celebrity gossip.
....................... This show will have a politics or economy section, and segments on culture, sports, and entertainment.
....................... It will create an entirely new morning show for MBS... That's all.
Director Kim...... Not bad. Director Yoon had a hand in this project. We look forward to it.
....................... But the target audience is housewives. Would they be interested in such a current affairs program?
Hyung-Chul....... Eve’s Morning will be different from other current affairs programs.
....................... The lines will be shorter, and we will explain certain political or economic terms.
Director Kim...... Then isn’t it the same as a tabloid or magazine?
Hyung-Chul watches Director Kim with restraint as he raises his criticisms.
Man................. That’s right. We’re always losing to the JBS morning program. I think this plan may not work.
Director Kim nods in support of that comment.
Hyung-Chul....... There’s always a reason for change.
Director Kim’s assistant and Director Kim both look at Hyung-Chul, puzzled.
Director Kim...... What do you mean by that?
Hyung-Chul....... For one thing, if the current program had been any good, this new program wouldn’t be necessary.
Director Kim appears upset.
Hyung-Chul....... I want to hear an explanation from the person-in-charge of the previous program, Director Kim?
Director Kim glares at Hyung-Chul. Hyung-Chul glares back at Director Kim.
SCENE: MBS corridor, afternoon
Director Kim and his assistants are walking back to his office after the meeting.
Director Kim...... He’s annoying me. However, if he fails in this project, this will be a severe setback for Director Yoon.
....................... Wait a minute? Who will be the main host for Eve’s Morning?
SCENE: Madame Kim’s boutique, night
Joo-Hee leads Hyung-Chul into Madame Kim's dress boutique. The proprietress is waiting for them at the door.
Madame Kim..... Welcome, Announcer Yoo, Director Yoon. Come right this way...
They start walking toward one of the dressing rooms, following Madame Kim.
Madame Kim..... The gowns you ordered to see all came in. I think you’ll be pleased with the selection.
Joo-Hee............ (enthusiastically) I can’t wait to see how they look! You’ll be surprised, Hyung-Chul.
Hyung-Chul....... (bored) Really? It’s not as if I haven’t seen a wedding dress before.
Joo-Hee............ I think tonight might be different than before...
Madame Kim..... Oh, yes. Your attendant is already in the dressing room, waiting.
Hyung-Chul....... Attendant?
Joo-Hee............ Didn't I tell you? I asked Jin Sun-Mi to come...
SCENE: Madame Kim’s boutique, night
In the dressing room, Joo-Hee models a wedding dress while Sun-Mi fusses with the train.
Madame Kim and Hyung-Chul are seated at a table piled with wedding catalogs, watching Joo-Hee.
Madame Kim..... This look is classic. It fits you perfectly!
Joo-Hee............ I don’t know... (to Hyung-Chul) How do you like it?
Hyung-Chul....... (sounding bored) If you like it, it's fine with me.
Madame Kim..... We have more, if you'd like to try them on.
Joo-Hee............ Actually, I'm feeling a bit tired now. Sun-Mi?
Sun-Mi.............. Yes?
Joo-Hee............ Could you model some of the gowns for me?
Sun-Mi.............. What?
Hyung-Chul immediately perks up when he hears this.
Joo-Hee............ Please... do me the favor...
Before Sun-Mi can decline, Madame Kim is leading her off.
Madame Kim..... Come right this way, Announcer Jin. I think we have a few in your size...
SOME TIME LATER...
Joo-Hee is waiting with Hyung-Chul in the dressing room seating area...
The dividing curtain opens to reveal Sun-Mi in a stunning wedding gown, with Madame Kim beside her.
Sun-Mi self-consciously avoids looking at Hyung-Chul as he nods his approval.
Joo-Hee glances at Hyung-Chul, and a smile plays on her lips...
Madame Kim..... How is this one?
Joo-Hee............ Hmm... Can I see several more?
Madame Kim..... Of course... Announcer Jin?
Sun-Mi.............. Er... Sure...
AFTER SUN-MI MODELS A DOZEN MORE GOWNS...
Madame Kim..... This is the last.
Joo-Hee............ Thank you. There’s several I’m interested in seeing again.
Madame Kim..... I’ll schedule another appointment, let me get my book. I’ll send my attendant to come...
Joo-Hee............ (to Hyung-Chul) Excuse me, I need to use the Ladies’ washroom.
After Madame Kim and Joo-Hee leave, an awkward silence ensues between Sun-Mi and Hyung-Chul.
Realizing that he may not have another chance soon with Sun-Mi, Hyung-Chul attempts to open a conversation.
Hyung-Chul....... Thanks, you were a big help to Joo-Hee.
Sun-Mi.............. Director... I’d better go and change now...
Hyung-Chul....... (demanding) Sun-Mi, wait...
The tone of his request makes her hesitate, and even though she prefers not to, she turns back.
Hyung-Chul....... You haven’t said a word to me all night. This isn't like you.
Sun-Mi.............. (irate) I’m not acting like myself? Did I make these circumstances? Didn’t I ask you to leave me alone?
Hyung-Chul....... I’m sorry, but it was a complete surprise to me, too. I had other plans, but Joo-Hee insisted I come.
His answer surprises Sun-Mi, but she holds her stance firm.
Sun-Mi.............. Even so, do I have to like it? Humph... Such a bother!
Hyung-Chul....... (sighs) Right, I get it... It's because of me... But before you go, just one thing: Look at me...
(All the time they were talking, Sun-Mi had avoided looking at him, to show how much she was upset with the situation.)
Grudgingly, Sun-Mi turns to look for what she intends to be just a moment...
But in that one instant, when their eyes meet, Hyung-Chul's intense gaze draws her in, and holds her so she can't look away.
Time slows to a crawl. Sun-Mi's heart pounds heavily, her hands turn clammy, her chest tightens so she can't find the air to breathe...
Sun-Mi.............. (voiceover) This isn’t possible. We haven’t that kind of relationship anymore. He's with someone else now, not me...
But the connection her mind had resisted, her heart can't forget... flustered, she tries to voice her feelings...
Sun-Mi.............. Actually, I...
The sound of a door opening interrupts the tension of the moment, releasing Sun-Mi to look. A young woman is at the door...
Attendant.......... Ms. Jin Sun-Mi? Madame Kim sent me to help you change.
Sun-Mi.............. Oh... Of course... (dips her head to Hyung-Chul) Sorry, I have to go...
As Sun-Mi turns away to leave, Hyung-Chul speaks up.
Hyung-Chul....... I just wanted to say... someday, you’ll make someone a beautiful bride.
A lump fills Sun-Mi’s throat... “Someone?” She keeps her back to him, so he won’t see the tears that spring unbidden into her eyes.
As Sun-Mi leaves with the attendant, Joo-Hee comes in the other door.
Joo-Hee............ So is the ice finally breaking?
Hyung-Chul....... (shrugs) At least we spoke... but I'm not sure this was the best way to arrange it.
Joo-Hee............ At least thank me. It's a lot of work playing Fairy Godmother, to get a reluctant Cinderella ready for the Royal Ball.
Hyung-Chul....... (puzzled) Fairy Godmother? Cinderella? Royal Ball? You're not making sense.
Joo-Hee............ You'll be getting a bill from Madame Kim. Do you think all those dresses just happened to be here in Sun-Mi’s size?
Hyung-Chul gets it, and laughs.
Joo-Hee............ (jokingly) If you two don’t work things out after this, I’ll never forgive you!
SCENE: Hyung-Chul’s and Sun-Mi's bedrooms, night
Asleep in their bedrooms that night, both Hyung-Chul and Sun-Mi have hopeful dreams...
|
|
|
|
|
|
BACK TO AAE 'Uncut'
Episode 12b Act 1
NEXT TO AAE 'Uncut' Episode 12b Act 3