BUGTIME ADVENTURES
"A Lot To Swallow"
(The story of Jonah and the Ninevites)

SCRIPT #4

LOGLINES: God’s love is special and far-reaching: 
(1) One needs to follow God’s will and guidance, 
(2) God shows mercy and compassion to all peoples of the world.

Written by:
William Forrest Cluverius

This script is not for distribution, publication, duplication or reproduction in any form or by any means.  Unauthorized distribution, publication, duplication or reproduction is strictly prohibited.
©2001 Santa Fe Communications, Inc., d.b.a. Lightning Bug Flix.

BUGTIME ADVENTURES
 “A Lot To Swallow”
SCRIPT #4

CHARACTER BREAKDOWN

INSECT CHARACTERS

ANTONI
MEGAN
MAYOR GREEN
WALLY	A loud, jovial, and ever hungry caterpillar.  Think Dom Deluise, or Curly from the Three Stooges.  Lovably annoying. 

HUMAN CHARACTERS

JONAH		Mid-40’s.  A well intentioned, but stubborn prophet.  Dressed modestly in period attire (i.e. brown robe & rope belt), with a leather pouch slung over his shoulder.  
SHIP CAPTAIN	A veteran of the sea with a scarred face and a loud, bellowing voice.
SAILORS (5)	The ship’s crew.  Big, burly & bearded.
NINEVITE GUARDS (2)	Decked in military attire with sharp spears and menacing scowls.  Only one Guard speaks.
NINEVITE KING	Dressed in royal silk robes with a jewel encrusted crown.
NINEVITES	Various citizens of all ages.  One woman, and one man, have one line each.

OTHER

GOD	A warm, fatherly voice that echoes from the heavens.  Soothing, yet firm.  (VO).
NARRATOR	 
GIANT WHALE		Of the Blue Whale variety.  SFX only
CROW	Jet black with beady eyes.  SFX only.

BUGTIME ADVENTURES
 “A Lot To Swallow”
SCRIPT #4
EXT. GRASSY HILLTOP – DAY
CLOSE ON A BLURRY GREEN OBJECT
It TWITCHES, swaying back and forth.  There’s <LOUD CHEWING SOUNDS>...followed by a CAMERA SHAKING <BELCH>.
1-a.	WALLY (vo)
(chewing sounds) (belch)
WRACK FOCUS TO REVEAL - A CATERPILLAR!
It’s WALLY.  The pudgy critter smiles guiltily as he clings to a twig.  He resumes eating as the TITLE CARD appears...
1-b.	WALLY (vo)
(more chewing sounds) (gulps)
SUPER READING: “A LOT TO SWALLOW”
Suddenly the ground begins to <RUMBLE>.  Wally <GULPS> as--
The CAMERA RISES out of the grass, REVEALING JONAH.  He crests over the hilltop with a pouch slung over his shoulder.
1.	narrator (vo)
Long ago there was a Hebrew prophet named Jonah...
Jonah draws closer.  He bears the look of a determined man; grayish beard, grizzled features, and a serious glare. 
2.	narrator (vo/CONT.)
For all his life Jonah had been a humble servant to God, but on this day, God had a special job for him --  
Jonah stops and wipes the sweat from his brow.  
3.	narrator (vo/CONT.)
a job that would challenge Jonah’s faith, and lead him to the shores of enemy land. 
CAMERA LOWERS as Jonah kneels in the grass –- his knee barely missing the scrambling Wally. 
           3-a.WALLY 
(reaction)
4.	narrator (vo/CONT.)
This then, is the story of “Jonah and the Ninevites”.
WALLY’S POV (UP ANGLE) – AS JONAH DROPS HIS BAG
Wally’s paddles his legs (Fred Flintstone-like).  And as the bag falls toward him, filling the frame, we: 
                      4-a.	WALLY 
(reaction)
CUT TO:
EXT. BLUEBERRY FIELD – NEAR BUGGELSVILLE
It’s quiet, until suddenly-- Wally comes barreling INTO FRAME! 
TRACK WITH WALLY 
He races through the woodsy thicket, panicking, like a kid out of a horror film.  Finally, he stops.  He doubles over, <PANTING HEAVILY>...and then he hears someone:
                      4-b.	WALLY 
(heavy panting)
5.	Megan (os)
These blueberries are so juicy.
Wally lifts his head and cocks an eye. 
6.	wally
Blueberries?
OTS WALLY – REVEALING ANTONI & MEGAN
The two Ants are gathering food in a small clearing, picking blueberries off bushes.  Megan is being very aggressive.
7.	antoni 
Go easy, Megan.  These berries are for the town raffle so they gotta be perfect. Try picking them like this.
CLOSER ON ANTONI 
He uses a homemade berry picker (a twig with a claw-like end) to pluck a berry, gently depositing it in a pile.  
ON MEGAN
8.	Megan
Bor-ing. I like to be more hands on with my work.
Megan <SHAKES> the bush with her hands, causing a slew of berries to <PLOP> to the ground.  She beams proudly.
WIDER – TO INCLUDE ANTONI
9.	antoni
(unimpressed) Have it your way, just keep working.  Mayor Green is expecting us soon, and we’ve still got to pick this patch.
As the two Ants resume working, a hands reach out and swipe a couple blueberries.
WIDER – FAVORING ANTONI
Antoni turns around.
10.	antoni (CONT)
Hey! (to Megan) Will you please stop eating the blueberries.
11.	Megan
I thought you were.
The two look at each other, then slowly scan the surrounding bushes.  They hear <LOUD MUNCHING SOUNDS>.
                      11-a. WALLY 
(munching)
12.	antoni
I think we have a visitor. Shhh.
Antoni puts a finger to his lips. The two Ants turn their backs and calmly resume working.  
ON WALLY – LURKING IN THE WOODS
He sees the Ants not looking and reaches to grab a blueberry.  Antoni <SNARES> him with the picker -- snatching Wally by the hand.
                      12-a.	WALLY 
(reaction)
13.	antoni
Gotcha!  
THREE SHOT ON WALLY & THE ANTS
14.	WALLY 
(whining) Lemme go, lemme go, lemme--(recognizes them) Hey, guys. What’s up? 
15.	antoni
Wally! We shoulda known it was you.
16.	Megan
Who said you could eat our blueberries? 
Wally stands and dusts himself off. 
17.	wally
Well, no one.  (chuckles) But .. but no one said I couldn’t either.  Can I have another?
18.	Megan & antoni
(together) NO!
NEW ANGLE – FAVORING WALLY
19.	wally
C’mon, I’m a growing caterpillar you know.  Not to mention I’m weak and near death after nearly getting squashed by a Giant!

20.	antoni
Giant?  Around here?
21.	wally
You betcha.  So whaddya say?  You gonna spare just one of those berries?
22.	antoni
Hardly.  We’ve got to deliver this batch to Mayor Green.
23.	wally
Perfect.  I was just heading that way myself. That is, if I’m not too weak...
Wally feigns, faking a faint, and falls into the Ants’ arms.
24.	wally (CONT.)
Uh, you will carry me, right?  
Antoni & Megan look at each other and then drop Wally on his rump.  
24-A.	antoni (vo)
Come on Megan.
They grab their BERRY BAGS and walk into the woods. 
CLOSER ON WALLY - He winces, then yanks a berry out from under his bum.  He <SIGHS> in relief, then yells:
25.	wally
Uh, guys? Guys?!  Wait up!  You’re supposed to be carrying me.
WIDE - Wally ambles into the forest after them as we:
WIPE TO:
EXT. BUGGELSVILLE – WIDE SHOT – TO ESTABLISH

Antoni, Megan and Wally stroll down the bustling streets.
CUT TO:
EXT. MAYOR GREEN GRASSHOPPER’S HOUSE - DAY
ANGLE ON MAYOR GREEN 
He’s setting up a canvas on an easel as the Ants and Wally walk up behind him.  Mayor Green takes out a paintbrush and is about to apply a stroke when--
26.	Megan
(shouts) What are you painting now, Mayor Green?!
Mayor Green jumps, startled.  He drops his brush in the dirt.  
                      26-a.	mayor green
(startle) Oh my!
WIDER – TO INCLUDE ANTS AND WALLY
Megan picks up the brush and hands it to Mayor Green.
27.	Megan
Oops, sorry about that.
28.	Mayor Green
Now, don’t you fret.  I’ve been needing a new brush anyhow.
29.	wally
That’s great, because the brush you ordered from my dad’s shop came in and I have it right here .. uhh .. right .. (gulp) somewhere. (mumbling) 
  
FAVOR WALLY – Mayor Green & the Ants patiently watch
Wally searches his TINY WAIST POUCH, pulling out all sorts of odd things (i.e. ACORNS, RAISINS, CARROTS, garlic.)  He pops the garlic clove in his mouth.  
				29-A. WALLY
			(chewing) (belch)
Megan waves away the FUMES. 
30.	Megan
Uh, can somebody get Wally a mint leaf?  His breath needs some help.
Wally finally finds the paintbrush and excitedly holds it up.
31.	wally
Ta da! Here it is!  Good as new.
He hands Mayor Green the brush, which is covered in BLUEBERRY GOOP.
32.	Mayor Green
Oh yes. Uh, uh, thanks, Wally.  So, are you helping out around the blueberry patch?
33.	Megan
“Helping”?  More like stealing, I’d say.
34.	wally
I was hungry!  
35.	antoni
Yeah, what’s new?
ON MAYOR GREEN – HE STEPS BETWEEN THEM
36.	MAYOR GREEN
Alright, you three, be nice. Now Wally; hungry or not, it’s never right to steal.  (to Antoni and Megan) (clears throat)  As for you two, you need to be a bit more caring with Wally. 
37.	Megan
(points) But he started it!
38.	Mayor Green
Start, stop, finish.  Who cares?  You all need to stick together.  It’s a big world out there. 
39.	WALLY
Yeah!(kissing up) You tell ‘em, Mayor. Green!
TWO SHOT ON ANTONI & MEGAN 
WIDER – TO INCLUDE MAYOR GREEN & WALLY
40.	mayor green
You all head back to the patch and work as a team.  But I’m serious; stay together. There’s a lot of giants with big feet out there.
41.	antoni
All right, Mayor Green.  Will do.
Mayor Green turns around and begins painting.  Wally sees Mayor Green’s not looking and reaches for a berry, but just as he does-- THE ANTS REACH IN AND YANK HIM O.S.
42.	wally
Yeeeowwza!
WIPE TO:
EXT. BLUEBERRY PATCH – DAY
Antoni and Megan two pick berries, noticeably frustrated.  Wally comically tries to jump up and pick a berry – but keeps missing them.
                     42-a.	WALLY 
(ad lib jumping, landing)
43.	antoni
(re: Wally) A lot of help he is.
44.	megan
No kidding.  I’ve known slugs that were more helpful.
Just then the two hear a <SHRIEKING SQUAWK>.  They glance up and see a CROW circling overhead. 
45.	antoni
A crow!  We gotta get out of here.
The two turn toward the woods, but then Megan glances back.
46.	megan
I better warn Wally.
47.	antoni
Wait! Not so fast.  Maybe that crow will scare him away.  
48.	megan
We can’t let that happen...can we?
Wally <BELCHES LOUDLY>.  The Ants wrinkle their noses.
                      48-a.	WALLY 
(belch) Excuse me.
49.	antoni
We want to get rid of the pest don’t we?  Let’s move!
The two run for cover in the bushes.
PAN OVER TO WALLY 
He’s licking his blueberry-stained feet, <SLURPING> them clean.  
                      49-a.	WALLY
(ad lib slurping sounds)
WIDEN TO REVEAL THE CROW OVERHEAD
It dives down, and just as Wally bends for a crumb, the Crow <SWOOPS> over him and narrowly misses his head. (SFX) CROW.
Wally sees the Crow circling.  He glances around the empty clearing.  
50.	wally (cont)
Guys!  Watch your backs.  There’s a crow on the loose, and he looks hungry... (beat) Guys? (ad lib reaction, trip and fall)
The Crow DIVE BOMBS, zooming toward Wally.  Wally reacts.  He tries to run but his feet get tangled, and then he TRIPS -- landing face first in a juicy blueberry; <SPLOCH!>.  
ANGLE ON CROW
as it soars by, missing Wally again.  But the angry bird swiftly turns around and glides right back.
ON WALLY – HE LOOKS TO THE SKY 
The blueberry’s now stuck to his head like a fat helmet. 
51.	wally (CONT.)
Uh oh.  Let’s get moving feet! Come on, all of ya!
WIDE ON CLEARING
Wally turns and runs TOWARD CAMERA as the Crow gains on him, recreating the famous “CROP DUSTER SHOT” from North by Northwest...only with a tubby, green caterpillar.  
Wally makes an abrupt turn and LEAPS ONTO A LEAF.  The Crow soars past him.  Wally pumps his fist in the air.  
52.	wally (CONT.) 
(jumping effort) Whatsa matter?  Too quick for ya? 
WIDEN to reveal the leaf bending under Wally’s weight, until... the leaf suddenly SLING SHOTS HIM O.S.! 
53.	wally (OS/CONT.)
(echoing) Wowwwwwwww!!!
PAN OVER TO A NEARBY BUSH as Antoni and Megan crawl out, glancing around nervously.
54.	antoni
Uh oh, where’s Wally?  (gasp) You think that bird actually (gulps) ate him?   
55.	Megan
(groan) I knew we should have warned him.  What do we do now?
Antoni looks up –- and sees the Crow DIVING STRAIGHT AT THEM.
56.	antoni
Run for it!
CAMERA TRACKS WITH ANTONI & MEGAN
They run through the woods.  Antoni points to JONAH’S LEATHER POUCH on the ground.
57.	antoni (CONT.)
Quick, hide in there.
LOW ANGLE - WIDE
The Ants race toward the pouch.  The Crow zooms down, but just as it draws close, Jonah shoos the bird away.  Antoni and Megan dive into the pouch unnoticed.
58.	jonah
Shoo, get away you bloodthirsty bird. I’m tired, but I’m not dead yet.   
HUMAN LEVEL POV
Jonah caps his jug of water and slings his pouch (holding Megan & Antoni) over his shoulder.  He’s about to walk away when a GENTLE BREEZE sweeps through the field, followed by the sound of <WIND CHIMES>.
WIDEN TO INCLUDE PANORAMIC VISTA
A SUNBEAM shines on the hillside, bathing Jonah in light as a SOOTHING VOICE descends from the heavens... 
59.	god (VO)
Jonah. 
TIGHT ON JONAH - He REACTS, glancing every which way.  
ANGLE ON POUCH – ON ANTONI & MEGAN
The two Ants poke their heads out and listen, wide-eyed.
BACK TO JONAH – He’s a bit baffled. 
60.	jonah
God?  Is that you?
61.	god (VO)
Jonah, I have a job for you.
62.	jonah
Of course.  Whatever you wish, God.
63.	god (VO)
Go to the city of Nineveh and tell the people there that they must change their wicked ways. 
ON JONAH  - His smile turns to a frown, bubbling into anger.
64.	jonah
But the Ninevites are our enemies.  They’re greedy and mean.  Why they’ll kill me if I set foot in their city. 
65.	god (vo)
I know you’re afraid, Jonah, but you must trust me.  I will be with you.
Jonah SIGHS and bows his head, holding back his frustration.  The <WIND CHIMES> gradually fade.  Jonah narrows his eyes.
66.	jonah
(grumbles) I’m sorry, God, but I can not, and will not, help my enemy.  
WIDER - Jonah glances ahead down the path.
67.	jonah (CONT)
If Nineveh’s east, then I shall go west – as far as possible.
He turns in the opposite direction and marches down the hill.
TIGHT ON JONAH’S POUCH – ON ANTONI & MEGAN 
They glance at the ground below, passing by in a blur.  
68.	antoni
We’ve got to get off this ride.  And fast! See if there’s any rope in the pouch. 
Megan reaches deep into the pouch, grabs something, and pulls up...WALLY!  He still has the blueberry atop his head.
69.	wally
Hi ya! Miss me?
70.	Megan / antoni
Wally! / You’re alive!  
 Megan and Antoni are all smiles then they take a cautious  step backwards, away from Wally.
71.	antoni
Wait a second.  How’d you get here?
72.	wally
Well, I was flung from a leaf, and then I flew, and then I landed.  But now that we’re all together, could one of you massage my feet?  I stepped in something sticky.
73.	antoni / megan
 (ad lib moans)
The Ants glance at Wally’s O.S. feet and cringe as we:
wipe to:
EXT. SHIPPING DOCK – TO ESTABLISH – DAY
A CARGO SHIP stands at the end of the dock.  Jonah heads toward it.
CLOSER ON JONAH
He stops and calls out to the SHIP’S CAPTAIN on the bow.
74.	jonah
I must go west. Are you going that way?
75.	captain
Yes, to Tarsish, but it is quite far away.
76.	jonah
Good. All the better!
ON THE GRIZZLED CAPTAIN
He sizes Jonah up, then nods yes and tosses a rope ladder onto the dock.  Jonah smiles and climbs aboard as we: 
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. CARGO SHIP – ON THE OPEN OCEAN – DUSK
There is a STORM FORMING off at the horizon. PUSH IN TO REVEAL JONAH. 
He stands on-deck, looking a bit nervous as the ocean waves <SMASH> against the ship.  The Captain calmly approaches.  
77.	captain
You have the look of a worried man, matey.  Don’t fear.  There may be a storm brewing, but I’ve sailed rougher seas than this.
78.	jonah
(nervously) It’s not the storm I fear.  It’s where it came from.
cut to:
INT./EXT. JONAH’S POUCH – CLOSE ON ANTONI & MEGAN - ASLEEP
They both awake and try to move –- but can’t.  
79.	Megan
(sleepy) Where are we? Why can’t we move?
PULL BACK to reveal WALLY, <SNORING LOUDLY>, his body sprawled across the Ants’ legs.  Antoni thinks, then gets an idea.  
                      79-a.	WALLY
(ad lib snoring)
80.	antoni
Watch this. (shouts) Dinner time!
Wally bolts upright and springs to his feet.
81.	wally
Really?  Right now?  Where?
82.	antoni
Nowhere!  You were squishing us!
Wally frowns.  Suddenly the ship <JOLTS>, spilling Wally back onto the Ants.  They hear PANICKED VOICES shouting above deck. 
                     82-a.	WALLY/antoni/megan
(ad lib collision)
83.	SAILORS (OS)
Batten down the hatches! / Look lively! / We’re gonna sink!
Wally and the Ants crawl to the top of the pouch -- and are promptly <SPLASHED> by a wave.  They <GAG> and REACT.
                      83-a.	wally/antoni/megan
(ad lib wave splash & coughs)
WIDE ON OCEAN
Lightning CRACKS.  <THUNDERS BOOMS>.  A tempest storm rises over the sea, whipping up ten story tall waves.
ON SAILORS
                      83-b.	sailors
(ad lib rigging against the storm)
They slosh across the deck, struggling to tie down the deck’s SWAYING CARGO as the Captain spouts orders.
84.	captain
Secure that cargo before it tips the ship.
85.	sailor #1
It’s no use, Captain.  The storm’s too strong.  The gods must be angry with us.
ON JONAH 
He reacts, his face riddled with guilt.  
86.	jonah
(sotto) Oh no...what have I done?  
PAN DOWN TO ANTONI, MEGAN & WALLY 
                      86-a.	wally/antoni/megan
(ad lib reaction) 
A look of concern crosses their faces, punctuated by a <THUNDEROUS BOOM>.  They duck and cower.
WIDE - CAMERA PULLS BACK, WAY BACK 
And as Jonah stands by himself, gazing across the churning sea: 
FADE OUT.
END ACT ONE

ACT TWO
EXT. SHIP’S DECK – ROUGH SEAS - DUSK
WIDE ON CARGO SHIP - It tosses and turns in the raging storm... 
HUMAN POV - ON THE CAPTAIN
He shouts to his crew as he struggles to steer the ship.
89.	CAPTAIN
If the cargo can’t be secured, toss it overboard!  It’s our only chance to keep from sinking.
The Sailors hurriedly toss crate after crate overboard.
90.	sailor #1
It’s not working, Captain. 
91.	sailor #2
The ship will break apart!
92.	captain
Then we must pray to the storm gods for mercy.  Hurry.  Everyone! 
ON SAILORS – PANNING ACROSS
One by one they begin to kneel and pray.  Some pull out CLAY IDOLS, while others remove NECKLACES WITH SYMBOLS (i.e. earth, sun, moon) and clasp them in their hands.
93.	SAILORS
(praying walla; ala “Oh mighty Enlil, god of thunder”, “Ea, god of water”, “Anu, god of sky”...)
FINISH PANNING – ON JONAH
He watches the desperate sailors, his guilt building until--
94.	jonah
(cries out) I can’t take it!
Jonah races over to a hatch, opens it, and scampers below deck. 
CUT TO:
INT. SHIP – CARGO HOLD – BELOW DECK
Jonah runs in and collapses on a wooden bunk, breathless.
95.	jonah (CONT.)
Those innocent men, they’re gonna die -- and it’s all my fault. 
Jonah buries his face in his hands, ashamed.
PAN DOWN TO THE POUCH
Wally pokes his head out and stretches.
96.	WALLY
It’s way too cramped in there.  I’m gonna get some fresh air.  
Wally jumps out of the pouch and PLOPS onto -- the BACK OF JONAH’S HEAD!  Jonah remains unaware.
CLOSER ON WALLY –- as he climbs through Jonah’s hair like an explorer in the bush. 
97.	wally (CONT.)
Whew, it’s like a jungle up here.
DOWN SHOT ON POUCH – ON ANTONI & MEGAN 
The Ants look out and see Wally crawling on Jonah’s head. 
98.	antoni
Wally?!  Are you crazy?  
99.	Megan
The giant could wake up any second!
Suddenly, the door <SLAMS OPEN> O.S.  Jonah abruptly lifts his head, and in the process, FLICKS WALLY UP INTO THE AIR...
TRACK WITH WALLY 
as he flies upwards, <BONKS> his head on the rafters, and lands on a protruding nail.  He spins around it until he stops.  
                      99-a.	wally
(ad lib bonk, spin)
100.	wally
(woozy) I .. I see what you mean.
ZOOM OUT AND WIDEN ON ROOM – REVEALING THE CAPTAIN  
He stands at the door, glaring at Jonah.
101.	captain
This is no time to rest!  Get on deck and pray to your God.  Perhaps he will save us. 
Jonah slings the pouch over his shoulder and stands.
ANGLE ON POUCH – OTS ANTONI & MEGAN
They rise upwards, toward Wally, who still hangs from a nail.
102.	ANTONI
Now’s your chance, Wally.  Jump!
103.	wally
Okay, but you’re gonna catch me, right?
The Ants open their arms as Wally let’s go, falls, and promptly <SQUASHES> them -- burrowing the three deep inside the pouch. 
                      103-a.wally/antoni/megan
(impact)
104.	wally (os)
(muffled) Hey, nice catch.
CUT TO:
EXT. SHIP’S DECK - MOMENTS LATER  
Jonah arrives on deck (with his pouch) and finds the Sailors still frantically praying.  Jonah pauses -- then swiftly turns around when he realizes the Captain is behind him.
                       104-a.sailors
(praying walla)
105.	captain
Our gods are not answering us.  Someone here has caused this storm, and it’s time we cast lots to determine whom.  Gather ‘round!
OTS CAPTAIN
The Sailors hand the Captain their “lots” (several RECTANGULAR  STICKS with different colors on opposing sides) then form a  half circle around him.  Jonah stands off to the side.  He drops the rectangular “lots” on the ship’s deck. They scatter in a pile, with some showing one color while others show a different color. 
106.	sailor #1
What do they say, Captain?
The Captain surveys the pile of colored rectangles, then  glances over to Jonah. 
107.	captain
One of us is running from something...and it is him!
The Captain points at Jonah.  The Sailors react in horror. 
108.	sailors
What have you done?! / Who are you? / What god have you betrayed?
CLOSER – FAVORING JONAH 
109.	jonah
I am Jonah, a Hebrew, and I worship the All Mighty -- the one God who created us all.
On the sailors & captain
110.	sailors
(aghast) Unbelievable!/You’ve disobeyed your God?!
111.	captain
What type of man turns his back on his God?
On jonah
112.	jonah
A desperate man.  This storm is no accident.  It’s here because I questioned God’s will; I disobeyed him.  To save yourselves you must sacrifice me.
wider shot – captain & crew
113.	captain
What? You mean, throw you overboard?
TIGHTEN to Jonah.
114.	jonah
Yes, it’s the only way.
119.	captain
No, it’s too cruel!  I won’t toss you overboard.
The Captain turns to his gathered crew.
120.	captain (CONT.)
All hands start rowing!  We’ll head back to shore as quickly as we can.
121.	sailor #1
The storm’s getting stronger!
                      121-a.captain / sailors
(reaction)
A huge WAVE <CRASHES> over the boat, toppling the Captain and Sailors.  The water retreats to reveal Jonah, still standing.
122.	jonah
Captain, you know what you must do.  To save your life and the lives of your men -- do it now!
ON THE CAPTAIN & HIS CREW
They exchange a knowing nod, then rise up and surround Jonah.  The Captain clasps his hands and looks to the sky.
123.	captain
All mighty God, creator of us all, please forgive us for what we now must do.
ANGLE ON WALLY & THE ANTS
124.	wally
(alarmed) Hey! Don’t I get a SAAAAYYY!!
The pouch suddenly JOLTS, LIFTING UPWARDS OUT OF FRAME.
HUMAN POV – WIDE ON JONAH 

The Sailors raise Jonah above their heads, and with a mighty heave, toss him (and his pouch) out to sea. 
INSECT POV – TRACKING WITH THE FLYING POUCH
Wally, Megan and Antoni cling for dear life.
125.	wally/Megan/antoni
Yeeeaaaahhh!!!
CUT TO:
EXT. STORMY WATERS – CONTINUOUS
Jonah falls from the sky first, <SPLASHING> into the choppy waters.  A BEAT later the POUCH LANDS NEXT TO HIM.
ON JONAH – TREADING AMIDST THE WAVES
126.	jonah
Please, God.  I know I’ve betrayed your trust. But I beg of you... have mercy upon me!   
WIDE ON OCEAN
There’s an anxious BEAT...and then the STORM CALMS.  
ANGLE ON FLOATING POUCH
Wally and the others poke their heads out and glance at the tranquil waters.   
127.	wally
Whaddya know.  We’re saved.
128.	Megan
We’re not off the hook yet, worm boy. LOOK!
Megan points O.S. as we PAN OVER TO A HUGE DORSAL FIN.  It moves quickly toward Jonah and the Insects.
129.	wally
(panics) Quick, quick, hide me!  I’m too plump, and tasty!  I’m a sitting duck!
130.	antoni
Speaking of duck -- DUCK!!!
And as a GIANT WHALE suddenly rises out of the water, SWALLOWING Jonah and our heroes in one furious gulp, we:
CUT TO BLACK.
A SUPER APPEARS, reading: “THREE DAYS LATER...”
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. UNDERWATER OCEAN - DAY
The GIANT WHALE glides through the watery depths.  It swims TOWARD CAMERA, its jaws open, and then we suddenly ZOOM INSIDE ITS MOUTH!
CAMERA TRACKS THROUGH THE WHALE, twisting and turning, gliding past its tongue and down its dark and narrow throat until we finally arrive at:
INT. WHALE’S BELLY – WIDE SHOT - CONTINUOUS 
It’s like a swampy cave with SHIPWRECKED PARTS strewn across the vast, spongy “floor.”
ANGLE ON ANTONI – STANDING INSIDE A CLAM SHELL
He’s hard at work, using a twig and a kelp leaf to assemble a makeshift sailboat.  Megan steps up and wrinkles her nose.
131.	Megan
Ohhhh, this place smells like rotten fish.  Krill fish to be exact.
132.	antoni
What else would you expect to find in a whale? 
tighter on megan 
133.	Megan
A few tasty leaves would be nice.  So what are you up to now?
two shot – megan & antoni
134.	antoni
I’m building us a boat to float us out.  Three days in here is enough.
135.	Megan
Do you really think it’ll matter?  Jonah’s been praying to God nonstop, and we’re still stuck inside here.
THEIR POV – REVEALING JONAH  
He kneels under the Whale’s rib cage, quietly praying.
136.	antoni (os)
That’s only because he has a lot of explaining to do.
CLOSER ANGLE ON JONAH - PRAYING
137.	jonah
Dear God, merciful God, I should never have disobeyed you.  You could have let me sink to my death, but instead you lifted me from despair. I won’t doubt you again.
BACK ON ANTONI & MEGAN
Megan glances around the cavernous whale belly.
138.	Megan
Where’s that trouble-making Wally?
139.	wally (os)
Yoo-hoo! Up here!
TILT UP, WAY UP – REVEALING WALLY  
He dangles from a piece of seaweed high above them.  
140.	wally (CONT.)
Hey guys, check it out.  I’m jungle Wally.  (crazy ape-like yell!)
FOLLOW WALLY
as he sways back and forth, swinging himself on the vine.
EXTREME DOWN ANGLE ON ANTS – PANNING BACK AND FORTH
141.	aNTONI
Stop fooling around!  This is serious.
ON WALLY – SWINGING ON THE VINE
142.	wally
You two need to relax, have a little fun for once.  What could happen?
Suddenly, Wally <SLAMS> his head on the “roof.”
143.	wally (CONT.)
OUCH!
The vine <SNAPS>.  Wally goes plummeting down.
                      143-a.wally
(ad lib dropping sounds)
OTS ANTS (UP ANGLE) – ON THE FAST APPROACHING WALLY
Antoni & Megan REACT.  Before they can pull the clam boat out of the way, Wally comes <CRASHING DOWN>, smashing the boat to pieces.  A BEAT later the seaweed vine FALLS, burying them all in a gooey heap.  
ANGLE ON GOOEY PILE 
Antoni & Megan poke their heads out, seething with anger.
144.	aNTONI
Eech! That does it, worm-boy!  I’ve had it with your stupid games.
Wally <POPS> out of the pile with a mouthful of seaweed.
145.	wally
(mumbles) You .. you talking to me?
146.	antoni & Megan
Yes!
Megan and Antoni climb out of the pile and brush off the goop.
147.	Megan
All you’ve done on this trip is eat, lollygag, eat and sleep.  
148.	wally
I’ve also dreamed about eating.
149.	antoni
Now you’ve ruined our best chance of getting out of here -- my boat.
Antoni and Megan turn up their noses as they turn their backs on Wally.
150.	Megan
That does it!
151.	antoni
We don’t want you around us anymore!
ON WALLY – HIS LIP DROOPS
152.	wally
Gee. Sorry, guys. Guess I got carried away. (then eager) What if I can bust us out of here!? (INHALE)
Wally <SUCKS IN> his stomach, making himself look buff.  
153.	antoni
Wake up, “walnut”. We’re inside a whale.
Wally frowns and <EXHALES>.  His stomach hits the floor.
                      153-a.wally
(EXHALES)
154.	Megan
Besides, if anyone’s going to get us out of here, it’s gonna have to be Jonah. 
Megan gestures across the way as we PAN OVER TO: 
JONAH
He looks upward, still kneeling, determined and intense.
155.	jonah
Please, God, return me to dry land, I’ve learned from my mistakes. Please let me see the light of day again!
Jonah’s last words ECHO through the cave.  Suddenly, a <LOUD RUMBLE> rises in the whale’s belly. 
ON WALLY & THE ANTS
Their legs wobble, trying to stand on the SHAKY GROUND.
                      155-a.wally/antoni/megan
(ad libs)
156.	antoni
Back in the pouch.  Hurry!
They scamper into the pouch as we:
CUT TO:
EXT. UNDERWATER - day
UP ANGLE – TOWARD THE OCEAN’S SURFACE
Darkness dissolves into light as a ray of sun shines through the water and falls upon the Whale.  The Whale swims upward, toward the light, and as it breaks through the surface...
EXT. OCEAN – ABOVE WATER
...the Giant Whale <SPITS> Jonah and our heroes out.  CAMERA FOLLOWS them as they fly though the air.
CUT TO:
EXT. SHORELINE - CONTINUOUS
Jonah safely lands on the beach, the pouch beside him. 
                      156-a.jonah
(ad lib impact)
INT. WATERLOGGED POUCH - same
157.	antoni / megan
(ad lib exertion grunts & groans)
158.	wally
We’re saved!
EXT. SHORELINE - DOWN ANGLE ON JONAH (GOD’S POV)
A familiar VOICE ECHOES from O.S.
159.	GOD (VO)
Jonah. 
Jonah rises to his feet and looks to the sky.  
160.	jonah
Yes, God?
161.	god (vo)
You must finish your task.  Go to Nineveh and tell them my message.  They have but forty days to change their ways.  
ON JONAH 
162.	jonah
But, God, have you no better task for me than helping my enemies?
163.	god (vo)
There is no time to question. A people’s fate lies in your hands.
164.	JONAH
(grumbles) Oh .. yes, God.  If that is what you wish. 
TIGHT ON POUCH – WALLY & THE ANTS RIDING ALONG
Wally turns to Antoni & Megan and grins.  
165.	wally
Well, looks like we’re going to Nineveh –- OUCH! 
A KRILL FISH has clamped on Wally’s tale. The Ants <LAUGH>, then abruptly stop when Wally looks back at them.  
                      165-a.antoni/megan
(laughs) 
wipe TO:
EXT. NINEVEH – CITY GATES - WIDE
FROM HIGH ABOVE, we look down upon the bustling, if somewhat dusty, city of Nineveh... 
166.	wally (os)
Are we there yet?
The scenery unfolds as Jonah heads down the street...  On one side we see TWO WOMEN gawking over a JEWELED NECKLACE -- until a YOUNG BOY races by and snatches it out of their hands.  
167.	ninevite woman #1
Stop!  Thief!
PAN OVER to the other side of the street, where we see TWO MEN <QUARRELING>, nose to nose.
168.	ninevite man #1 / man #2
How dare you! / I’ll tear you apart with my bare hands.
The two men lunge at one another, BRAWLING and TUSSLING O.S.
                      168-a.man #1 / man #2
(ad lib fighting) 
BACK ON THE INSECTS – RIDING IN THE POUCH
169.	Megan
No wonder Jonah didn’t want to come here.  This place is dangerous.
170.	antoni
(cocky) Ehh, it doesn’t look so tough.  
CAMERA WIDENS as TWO NINEVITE GUARDS suddenly jump out.
171.	guard #1
Stop or be killed!
The Insects cower.  Megan turns to Antoni.  
172.	Megan
(gulp) Now is it tough enough for ya’?
Antoni nods meekly.  And as the Guards jab their spears at Jonah, and the Insects helplessly watch, we: 
fade out.
END ACT TWO

ACT THREE
EXT. NINEVEH – CITY GATES – RESUMING (DAY)
ON INSECTS – RIDING IN THE POUCH
WIDEN to include JONAH and GUARDS.
The Guards angrily glare at Jonah.  They start to push and shove him, like bullies. 
173.	guard #1
Who are you?  And what is your business?!
174.	jonah
I am Jonah, a Hebrew.
The Guards scowl.  They raise their spears to his chin. 
175.	jonah (CONT.)
But I come in peace.  Here to deliver a message from God. 
176.	guard #1
Why should we believe you?
CLOSE ON JONAH – PUSH IN
177.	jonah
(deadly serious) Because if you don’t, then in forty days you and your city will be no more. 
BACK ON GUARDS
They turn to each other and exchange a bemused look.
178.	guards #1 & #2
(ad lib derisive laughter)
dissolve TO:
EXT. KING’S PALACE - COURTYARD – MOMENTS LATER
WIDE ON SCENE
179.	guard #1 (VO)
This Hebrew has asked to see you, your majesty.
 Jonah stands before the KING who is wearing a CROWN.  A CROWD OF CITIZENS look on from the  courtyard’s perimeter. Jonah nervously puts his hand in his  pouch.
                      179-a.crowd
(walla) 
cut to:
INSIDE JONAH’S POUCH – UP ANGLE
Wally and the Ants are wading in the watery pouch when Jonah’s GIANT HAND REACHES INSIDE, grabs a KRILL FISH, and pulls it out.
cut to:
HUMAN POV – ON JONAH
He pulls his hand out of the pouch and holds up the krill fish.
181.	JONAH
(nervous laughter) For three days I lived inside a whale, until today, when God’s mercy shone upon me, giving me the strength to stand before you. See, this is krill fish – a favorite food of whales.
ON THE KING 
182.	jonah (vo)
(emboldened) Your Majesty, God has told me that Nineveh will be destroyed if you and your people don’t change your greedy and violent ways.
The King rises from his  throne and removes his crown.
183.	KING
Then we must change.  We will make sacrifices, give up our excesses, and pray for forgiveness.  And if we should prove our faith, then perhaps God will have mercy upon us.
A rousing <CHEER> RISES UP through the crowd as we:
                       183-a.crowd
(cheers) 
WIPE TO:
NINEVEH MONTAGE – VARIOUS LOCATIONS
<MUSIC PLAYS> OVER THE SCENE as Jonah and the King walk though the busy streets, the King calling out to the local citizenry:  
184.	king 
Drop your weapons, respect your elders, share with your neighbors... and let God’s will show you the way.
TRACK WITH JONAH & THE KING
As they proceed, the color of the scenery behind them begins to change –- from a dingy, sepia tone to a more vibrant setting (mirroring the city’s repentance). 
ANGLE ON AN OPEN PIT
A line of SOLDIERS toss their spears and daggers into the pit as Jonah and the King pass by.
ANGLE ON A WOODEN TROUGH
A horde of citizens step up, one by one, dropping their loafs of bread and cheese on the trough.
CLOSE ON JONAH’S POUCH - TRACKING 
Wally leans out and tries to leap for the food trough -- but Antoni & Megan reel him back in by his tail.
				184-A.  WALLY
			(grunt)
FRONT SHOT ON JONAH & THE KING
They reach the end of the road and stop, amazed at what they see before them.  The <MUSIC CRESCENDOS>.
REVERSE ANGLE – REVEALING A FIELD OF CITIZENS
They’re all kneeling and praying, their numbers stretching across the hillside.  The King turns to Jonah and gratefully shakes his hand, then descends into the crowd.  END MONTAGE.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. NINEVEH CITY GATES – DAY
OTS JONAH – WIDE ON NINEVEH
The city’s revitalized, a far more beautiful place then when we first arrived.
ANGLE ON POUCH – ON ANTONI & MEGAN
They stare out across the city, impressed at what they see.
185.	antoni
I guess you can’t always be mad at people, you’ve got to give them a chance.
186.	Megan
Yeah, people -- and caterpillars. 
187.	wally
Hey guys, whatcha doing?
188.	antoni / megan
(sigh) Hi, Wally.
189.	jonah (vo)
Your kindness has betrayed me, God. 
HUMAN POV ON JONAH – He has a scowl across his face.
190.	jonah (CONT.)
I knew you would save my enemy from ruin. That’s why I didn’t want to come here.  
191.	god (vo)
Have you any right to be angry, Jonah? 
Jonah looks to the sky defiantly.  
192.	jonah
I don’t care if I’m right.  It’s the way I feel. 
WIDE ON CITY GATES
Jonah turns and angrily leaves the city as we:
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. NEARBY HILLTOP – OVERLOOKING NINEVEH – DAY
ANGLE ON THE BRIGHT SUN
PAN DOWN to REVEAL JONAH.  He sits on the wide open hillside, sulking under the hot sun, simmering in anger.  
193.	jonah (cont)
Why God?  Why do you show mercy to the Ninevites while I must suffer, baking like a lowly ant under this burning sun?  (furious)  It’s not right!
He slouches, getting drowsy, the sun beating down on him.
196.	jonah (CONT)
This heat...uh, it’s too much.
Jonah’s eyelids become heavy.  He leans over, slumps to the ground, and drifts off to sleep. 
BACK TO THE POUCH – ON MEGAN, ANTONI & WALLY
197.	antoni
(yawns) Guess I’ll hit the sack, too.
198.	antoni (CONT.)
Ha! Get it?  (chuckle) “Hit the sack.”  Even when I’m cranky I still got it. 
199.	Megan
Are you going to take a nap too, Wally?
200.	wally
Nah.  I have some work to do.
201.	Megan 
Whatever.
The two Ants crawl deep inside the pouch and disappear.  
FOLLOW WALLY
He hops off the lip of the pouch and lands on JONAH’S CHEST.  
202.	wally
(effort) There’s something around here I’m supposed to do – but what is it?
Wally crawls past Jonah’s face, through his hair, and disappears on the other side of his head.  
HOLD ON JONAH – LYING ASLEEP ON THE GROUND  
203.	WALLY (vo / CONT)
Maybe nothing’s gonna happen.
There’s a BEAT...and then a VINE SPROUTS UP behind him, LIFTING WALLY UP THROUGH FRAME AND INTO THE SKY.
204.	WALLY (CONT.)
Wha-oa! 
cut to:
a QUICK time lapse montage – on THE VINE 
Over the course of the day and night we SLOWLY PULL BACK and WIDEN as the VINE CONTINUES TO GROW.  The SUN FALLS, replaced by the MOON, and then the SUN RISES AGAIN.  By daybreak, the vine towers above the ground, casting a vast shadow over Jonah.  
EXT. HILLTOP – DAWN – CONTINUOUS
OTS VINE – DOWN ANGLE ON JONAH
Jonah awakes and realizes he’s cast in shadow.
JONAH’S POV ON THE GROUND
The Vine’s shadow is shaped like a looming monster.
REVERSE ANGLE ON JONAH – THE VINE TOWERING BEHIND HIM
Jonah reacts.
				204-A.JONAH
			Aaaah!
His eyes widen in fear, and then he whips around –- finally seeing the vine.  He smiles, half-crazed.
205.	JONAH
Oh. It’s just a vine.  And from out of nowhere.  Ha! Now this is one miracle I can be thankful for.  
ANGLE ON jonah’s POUCH – ON ANTONI & MEGAN
The two Ants emerge from deep inside the pouch, wiping away the sleep from their eyes.  They get to the outer edge of the pouch and look up.  Their eyes bug out, reacting to what they see.
206.	Megan
Wow!  Where’d that come from?
OTS ANTS - UP ANGLE ON VINE 
207.	MEGAN (os/CONT.)
That vine wasn’t here yesterday. 
PUSH IN ON TOP OF VINE – REVEALING WALLY
He’s happily <EATING AWAY>, devouring his way down.
                      207-a.wally
(chomping sounds) 
208.	antoni (os)
Yeah. And it won’t be here tomorrow.  Not at the rate Wally’s chowing down on it.
209.	Megan (os)
Wally?!  Don’t eat that!
ON WALLY - He eats as fast as he can, talking between bites.
210.	wally
But I can’t stop! (chomp) I’ve really worked up an (chomp) an appetite!  And guess what – I was sent to eat this vine. (chomp)

ON ANTONI & MEGAN – THE VINE IN B.G.
The Ants scratch their heads.
211.	Megan
Maybe there’s more to Wally than we realize.   
Wally <BUZZSAWS> DOWN THE VINE and whittles it to a nub. He DROPS back onto the pouch, plump as a frog, and promptly <BELCHES>. 
                      211-a.wally
(belch) 
212.	antoni 
Eeuw, and then again, maybe not.
HUMAN POV – DOWN ANGLE ON JONAH  
A scorching WIND begins to blow.  Jonah turns around and sees the vine.  It’s nearly gone, withered and eaten away. 
213.	jonah
My shade!  It’s gone. (to God)  Hey! Bring it back.  Bring it back I say!
214.	god (vo)
No, Jonah.  I’ve already sent an insect to eat the vine away.
ANGLE ON INSECTS – INSIDE THE POUCH
The Ants stare at Wally, both shocked and impressed.  Wally just smiles and picks his teeth.
BACK TO JONAH – He shouts at the sky. 
215.	jonah
But it was protecting me!
216.	god (vo) 
You mean as I protected you from the ocean, the whale, and your enemies?  
Jonah falls silent.  He bows his head.
217.	god (vo/CONT.)
Stop thinking about the vine, Jonah.  Think of others. Just as I care about others, you should too.
Jonah ponders that thought.  He slowly rises to his feet.
218.	jonah
You’re right, God.  I’ve been wrong.  You’ve proven that your love touches everyone... (chuckles) even a stubborn old fool like me.
ANGLE ON INSECTS – INSIDE THE POUCH – on megan & antoni
Antoni and Megan exchange a guilty look. 
219.	antoni
Think we’ve been a bit stubborn, too? 
220.	Megan
Yeah. 
Megan nods and the two look over to Wally, who’s sitting on the rim of the pouch, getting a tan.
OTS WALLY ON MEGAN AND ANTONI
221.	antoni
Wally? Megan and I really owe you an apology. 
222.	megan
We haven’t been very nice to you because well, you’re just kinda buggy, you know?
223.	antoni
Yeah. We’re sorry.
REVERSE ON WALLY 
224.	wally
So you don’t want to get rid of me anymore?
REVERSE ON megan and antoni 
225.	antoni/Megan
No! / Of course not.
WIDER THREE-SHOT – ON WALLY, ANTONI & MEGAN
226.	antoni
When you get right down to it, you’re a lot of fun.
227.	Megan
And you know – garlic breath isn’t all that bad.
TIGHTER ON WALLY
228.	wally
(beams) I knew you both cared!
ON ANTONI AND MEGAN 
Wally ENTERS and hugs Antoni and Megan tightly. 
229.	Megan
So when we get back, do you think anyone’s gonna believe our story? 
230.	wally
Oh, I gotta hunch they will.
                      230-a.wally/antoni/megan
(gentle laughter) 
Wally raises his hand, revealing a dangling KRILL FISH on his finger.  The three share a hearty <LAUGH> as the CAMERA PULLS BACK, WAY BACK, AND WIDENS TO INCLUDE JONAH.  He walks into the distance, silhouetted by the setting sun... 
231.	narrator (vo)
It would take Jonah many years to appreciate the job he had done, but for two adventurous ants and a fun-loving caterpillar, the lesson of God’s love will never be forgotten.  
And as Jonah and our heroes disappear over the hill, we: 
FADE OUT
THE END