Black & Blue

Black & Blue a feature screenplay synopsis by Teri L. Foster A former reporter trapped in an abusive marriage is beaten unconscious, saved only by intervention of her police chief husband’s best friend. After extended hospitalization, she discovers the depth of her husband’s depravity, and plans violent revenge. Synopsis One-time reporter VICTORIA RATCLIFF dreads husband MICHAEL’s daily return: will he beat her? As always, this depends on how the retired police chief’s day unfolded—bad likely means he’ll hammer in a few cleverly placed bruises. Gone is the man who—when they were dating—bestowed myriad gifts and jewelry. Three years married, Michael remains ignorant of Victoria’s birth-control pills, but no way is she bringing a child into this living hell. Forbidding any friends, or communication with family, Michael’s a true jailer. Benefits include life free of traffic tickets and love, but virtually imprisoned within a nice house. Ironically, only Michael’s best friend, IAN, knows the genuine state of (abusive) affairs. Attending a local fundraiser, Michael accosts their host who dares take Victoria’s hand to introduce her to potential donors. Discreetly, Ian steps closer, whispers a few calming phrases; but soon Michael’s had enough, tells Ian to get the car. Game over. Driving, immediate argument ensues between Michael and Victoria—why must she be so flirtatious?! Throughout the ride home, this continues. Once there, Michael chases her up to the bedroom—clutches her hair and pulls her to the floor, where he beats the woman unconscious. Too late, Ian storms into the room; never has he seen his good friend behave like this. Is Michael losing it for real? Advising the hyperventilating husband to vacate, Ian promises to take care of the situation. At the hospital, Ian has no choice but to lie: Victoria, he says, was beaten during a robbery. Ian broke up the attack—emerging miraculously (he continues) unscathed. Across three weeks of anguished hospitalization, not once does Michael visit his brutalized wife, and in fact after her recovery tasks Ian with bringing her home. During her agonizing healing, Victoria devises an escape plan. Finally, strong enough to take action, she covertly trails Michael during his daily (and nightly) jaunts, learning that his sexual appetites are many. Not only does he enjoy other women, but goes so far as to ask Victoria to engage in a threesome. Perhaps worse, a follow-up doctor’s appointment reveals she has contracted an STD. This marriage is over—whatever that takes. Surveilling Michael, Victoria locates salon-owner YOLANDA—one of his “side projects”—and concludes she’ll make an ideal pawn in what’s to become Michael’s horrific death by “accident.” With Victoria aware of Ian’s feelings for her, he’ll be the perfect alibi. After shedding crocodile tears, Victoria will rekindle her life and career. Ladyt1069@gmail.com 313 999 3895