1 BENJAMIN (SCREENPLAY)
FICTIONAL "BENJAMIN"
PLOT: Loosely based on the real-life JOHN CAESAR/BLACK CAESAR - BENJAMIN; an African-Australian bushranger - is on on the run. Police and authorities are after him for bushranger and criminal crimes, will BENJAMIN get away from the authorities in time or not??
CHARACTERS:
- BENJAMIN CAESAR: African-Australian; brown hair, brown eyes, focused, criminal, bushranger in NSW, dedicated to crime; hot temper; loosely based on JOHN CAESAR/BLACK CAESAR, born 1764, young adult
- TISH CAESAR: Benjamin's mother, African australian
- GEORGE CAESAR: Benjamin's father, African Australian, rich
- PIP: Boss Michael's son, rich, wealthy, white, blue eyes, brown hair, horseback rider, obese, young adult
- BOSS MICHAEL: Benjamin's servant boss, rich, white, blue eyes, brown hair, horseback rider, horse-carriage owner, medium-age
- MARTHA CAESAR: convict woman, bushranger, love interest of Benjamin, poor but with elegant beauty; shy
- JANE CAESAR: convict daughter of MARTHA & BENJAMIN CAESAR, takes after her father; sassy, tomboyish
- HANS LICOLN: marine; white Australian man; owner of multiple stylish backpacks; iron pots and muskets
- CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP: leader of the first fleet; serious; firm; leader-oriented; pirate-hat; brown eyes, black hair
- BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER: leader of the brickmaking gang at BRICKFIELD HILL, focused, protective, leadership personality
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. FLASHBACK - MADAGASCAR 1764
(MADAGASCAR; a poor country in time - the birth of BENJAMIN CAESAR takes place. His mother and father are peasants; they smile in delight as their son is born; many of their fellow villagers and tribe members celebrate in delight)
TISH CAESAR
(holding infant BENJAMIN; to GEORGE) Oh isn't he beautiful George... our great son Benjamin...
GEORGE
(smiles; to Tish) yes.... Benji for short. BENJAMIN CAESAR.
(TISH smiles at her husband; then smiles back down to her son BENJAMIN)
GEORGE CAESAR
(smiles; to infant BENJAMIN) Welcome to the world sir Benjamin Caesar. Welcome to the big bright, yet sadistic world where some live rich; and some live poor...
(The scene ends)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. PRESENT - ST PAUL DEPTFORD, ENGLAND MARCH 17, 1786 - RESIDENCE OF BENJAMIN CAESAR
(Years passed - TISH & GEORGE CAESAR relocated themselves and their son BENJAMIN CAESAR for a better adulthood life; for the sake of attaining a better adulthood life than they could deem possible in AFRICA. BENJAMIN CAESAR is a grown man - medium built, highly muscular, brown hair, brown eyes, with the face of his mother. BENJAMIN CAESAR is about to start his first day of work; he is wearing a white singlet; baggy brown workpants and black boots. His parents look at him before he leaves. Benjamin, George & Tish all possess strong African accents)
GEORGE CAESAR
(Smiles; to BENJAMIN) Oh son... It's your first day of work... I hope... I hope it goes well...
TISH CAESAR
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) Yes my son... I hope all the English.. I think that's what you call them... I hope the English folk treat you well... They better treat my boy well...
(TISH hugs his son; not wanting to let her son go)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(smiles; to Tish & George) I'm sure they will teach me well Mama & Papa. I'm sure... I'm sure they will. I've got to get to work... It's a 5km work... Don't want to be late...
TISH CAESAR
(to Benjamin Caesar) I know son... I know... Okay...
(Tish stops hugging her son)
TISH CAESAR
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) Okay son... Have a good day...
(TISH quickly kisses BENJAMIN on the cheek. BENJAMIN picks up his backpack containing personal possessions; and makes his way to the worksite. TISH cries as she sees her son go. Tish hugs her husband)
TISH CAESAR
(to GEORGE CAESAR) Oh Georgie... Our boy is all grown up... Benji is all grown up...
GEORGE CAESAR
(to Tish) I know... The man has got a life to start... That's why we moved to England ain't it... so we can give our boy a better life....
(Tish cries in agreement. She continues hugging her husband George. The scene ends)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. SERVANT HQ - ST. PAUL DEPTFORD ENGLAND
(Benjamin arrives at the worksite; and heads to BOSS Michael. BOSS MICHAEL is loud and obnoxious by the tone of his voice; as he speaks to Michael)
BOSS MICHAEL
(loudly; to BENJAMIN) Now you must be the BENJAMIN CAESAR... is that right?
(BENJAMIN nods his head in agreement to BOSS MICHAEL. BOSS MICHAEL shakes Benjamin's hand firm; and notices the muscular medium-built of BENJAMIN)
BOSS MICHAEL
(loudly; to BENJAMIN) Well damn... You are ready for servant work...
(PIP, the rich obese son of BOSS Michael interrupts the conversation between his father and his new co-worker. Boss Michael grows frustrated with his son's rudeness and inconsideration)
BOSS MICHAEL
(annoyed; to PIP) PIP. Are you kidding me?
(Pip is dumbfounded and naive)
PIP
(dumbfounded; to BOSS MICHAEL) What father?
BOSS MICHAEL
(annoyed; to PIP) I am talking to one of my new employees... and you're being bloody rude... HECK with it please.. Enough boy...
(BOSS MICHAEL smacks PIP on the shoulder; Pip cries like a fat, rich kid)
PIP
(annoyed; to BOSS MICHAEL) Damn father... Damn...
BOSS MICHAEL
(annoyed; to PIP) To the horse carriage. I'll meet you there... Saddle them up to the horse carriage.... (firm) NOW...
(PIP grunts in annoyance; and makes his way to the horses. The two horses - one is a paint mare, the other is a chestnut stallion. PIP begins saddling the horses up; and connecting the horse reins to the carriage, through tightened retain. BOSS MICHAEL redirects his attention to BENJAMIN)
BOSS MICHAEL
(to BENJAMIN) Sorry young man... Sorry... That kid can be a real pain in the ass sometimes...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to BOSS MICHAEL) No it's okay sir... I understand... you're a busy man...
BOSS MICHAEL
(speaks loudly; to BENJAMIN) Well I am busy man... Having to feed that fat kid; (points to horses) and to feed those two horses over there... and (points at BENJAMIN) and pay your wages. You bet goddamn I'm busy... All the fuckin time... I hardly get any rest... Work til I die I will...
(BOSS MICHAEL chuckles; and continues speaking loudly after going off topic in regards to the job)
BOSS MICHAEL
(loudly; to BENJAMIN) Now back to the job... Pip will be steering the horses to our first servant job. 10km up north... I've got the tools all stored at the back of the carriage... So let's ride...
(BENJAMIN follows BOSS MICHAEL to the horse-drawn carriage. Minutes later; Pip steers the horse-drawn carriage to the first servant job location)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. 6 FIRST AVENUE ST> PAUL DEPTFORD, ENGLAND MARCH 17, 1786
(The horse-drawn carriage arrives at the first servant job - 6 FIRST AVENUE. PIP parks the horse-carriage on the side-gras; located beside the property of 6 FIRST AVENUE ST. BOSS MICHAEL looks at BENJAMIN0
BOSS MICHAEL
(to Michael) Now Michael... You are representing my business. and my worksite... and my people... Do well and you'd get paid good... Okie-dokie...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to BOSS MICHAEL) Will do sir... Will do...
BOSS MICHAEL
(smiles; to BENJAMIN CAESAR) Thank you Benjamin... Thank you...
(BENJAMIN hops out of the horse-drawn carriage and makes his way to the servant house... BOSS MICHAEL and PIP leave the scene)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. SERVANT HOME - 6 FIRST AVENUE ST> PAUL DEPTFORD,
(BENJAMIN walks into the home of address; with which BENJAMIN will be providing servant work. The client is an elderly white male; who notices BENJMAIN. The client has arthritis; and is struggling to walk)
CLIENT
(coughs; to Benjamin) Hello son... Hello....
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(To Client) Hello there man... How are you?
(The client tries to stand up; but falls back own the chair. The client notices BENJAMIN's strong African accent)
CLIENT
(to Benjamin) Ah no... no son... I'm fine...
(The client groans as he supports his knees with his hands on them)
CLIENT
(groans; to Benjamin) Goddamn knees failing on me... Damn... FUCK...
(The client realises he swore; and apologises to BENJAMIN)
CLIENT
(saddened; to BENJAMIN) Oh sorry son... I didn't mean to swear... It's just... My knees are killing me...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to Client) I understand man... I'd love to help you with housework duties... What would you like done?
CLIENT
(to BENJAMIN) Okay son... Just sweep the floors; and empty the dishwasher... thanks... That'll be a help...
(BENJAMIN CAESAR works his domestic duties as a servant. He finishes the chores two hours later; and fronts the client again)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to Client) All done sir...
CLIENT
(thankful; to Benjamin) Oh thank you son... Thank you... You were a help... That old mate of mine... Michael found a great servant... Thanks...
(Minutes later; the horse-drawn carriage arrives back to the location servant home of 6 FIRST AVENUE. Pip notices BENJAMIN, BOSS MICHAEL notices his employee BENJAMIN talking to his client of business. BOSS MICHAEL disrupts the conversation between CLIENT & Benjamin)
BOSS MICHAEL
(to BENJAMIN) Done your job Benjamin...
(BENJAMIN nods his head at his boss, signifying the job has been complete)
BOSS MICHAEL
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) Good... good.. Now get in the carriage so I can organise your pay... Come on...
(BENJAMIN hops into the carriage; BOSS MICHAEL and Pip steer the horse-drawn carriage back to SERVANT HQ. Benjamin exits the carriage; followed by BOSS MICHAEL and his son PIP. A second later; BOSS MICHAEL fronts BENJAMIN)
BOSS MICHAEL
(to BENJAMIN) Alright... alright.. Now Benjamin... Excellent job... You've proved your worth... Awesome.. I want you again... Until then goodbye...
(BENJAMIN questions his pay)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(questions BOSS MICHAEL) But Boss Michael...
BOSS MICHAEL
(informs BENJAMIN) Call me Michael thanks..
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(questions BOSS MICHAEL) Michael... Ah... The money... What about my pay? I need the money... I need that money...
BOSS MICHAEL
(laughs; to BENJAMIN) Nah... I don't pay black men...
(BENJAMIN CAESAR is insulted; and grows angry at BOSS MICHAEL)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(shouts to BOSS MICHAEL) WHAT? What... I need that money... I need that money... to support my parents... I'm living in poverty...
(BOSS MICHAEL laughs sadistically at BENJAMIN's struggles)
BOSS MICHAEL
(laughs; to BENJAMIN) Oh you poor boy... I ain't paying you... Bad luck...
(BENJAMIN grows angry at BOSS MICHAEL; and grabs him forcefully by the shirt. BOSS MICHAEL feels the intense strength of BENJAMIN's as the shirt is grabbed forcefully; BOSS MICHAEL grows worried)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(angrily; to BOSS MICHAEL) I need that money... I need that money... Give it to me...
(BOSS MICHAEL CALLS FOR THE LOCAL COUNTY OFFICER. The local county officer approaches the scene)
LOCAL COUNTY OFFICER
(firm; to Benjamin) Hands off the businessman... or you're getting arrested...
(BENJAMIN continues looking angrily at BOSS MICHAEL; in great fury after being ripped off... BENJAMIN lets go of BOSS MICHAEL and bites his tongue. BENJAMIN looks at the LOCAL COUNTY OFFICER)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(upset; to LOCAL COUNTY OFFICER) Sir... Cop... He ripped me off... This English man ripped me off... Give him justice..
(LOCAL COUNTY OFFICER looks overwhelmed at BENJAMIN CAESAR)
LOCAL COUNTY OFFICER
(worried; to BENJAMIN) I can't... sorry... I can't do that...
(BENJAMIN grows frustrated with LOCAL COUNTY OFFICER)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(frustrated; to LOCAL COUNTY OFFICER) Why not? You enforce the law don't you...
LOCAL COUNTY OFFICER
(concerned; to BENJAMIN CAESAR) He's my boss... I can't...
(BENJAMIN is shocked to hear so much corruption at the land of ENGLAND. BENJAMIN stands backwards)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(shocked; to LOCAL COUNTY OFFICER) You rip off jerk... Scum... scum you are... TERRIBLE..
(BENJAMIN grunts and storms off in disgust, betrayal, and in anger after being ripped off. Whilst making his way home; Benjamin notices a bank vendor with shillings on the table front of the vendor set-up. Whilst the vendor is talking to a certain villager; Benjamin quickly steals the 240 shillings and runs away. The money vendor turns his head and notices 240 shillings has been stolen; by a young black man running away. The money vendor tries to intervene; and gain attention from the local county officer)
MONEY VENDOR
(shouts; to BENJAMIN) Eh... YOUNG MAN... STOP...
(BENJAMIN runs home; and gets away from being caught by the local county officer - effectively committing his first crime of theft. The local county officer hears; but it is too late as Benjamin has vanished. The local county officer is saddened and seeks justice)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. RESIDENCE OF BENJAMIN CAESAR
(BENJAMIN CAESAR arrives gloomy, empty-handed, underpaid, angry with his backpack on his back, returning to his residence. Tish & George notice their son returning back to his residence. Tish smiles in excitement; as she sees her son)
TISH CAESAR
(smiles; to. BENJAMIN) Oh Benjamin.. Oh Benjamin... How are you?
(BENJAMIN walks up the exterior stairs to the house; where Tish & George are standing by the balcony. Tish smiles as Benjamin hugs her)
TISH CAESAR
(hugging Benjamin) Oh Benjamin... How was it? HOW was your day at that job?
(Benjamin doesn't respond; devastated and disgusted that he had been ripped off by BOSS MICHAEL. Tish worries)
TISH CAESAR
(Worried; to Benjamin) Benjamin... Are you... Are you okay?
(Benjamin stops hugging his mother; and breaks the truth; confessing to his parents why he seems so upset)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(saddened; to TISH) Mother... I had been ripped off...
(TISH is shocked; so is George. They are both saddened to see their son upset from financial ruin and rip-off)
TISH CAESAR
(saddened; to Benjamin) Benjamin... I'm so... I'm so sorry... Where is that guy?
(TISH a protective and fearsome mother; wants to find her son's ex-boss for a knuckle-sandwich. She prepares to leave to find the ex-boss; George stops her)
GEORGE CAESAR
(to TISH) No darling Tish... No... We don't want to get in trouble as well... like assault charges...
(A saddened and broken-hearted Tish looks at her husband)
TISH CAESAR
(saddened; to George) I know... but still. Our son's boss is... such a mongrel... always taking advantage of us black people... Despicable...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(upset; to Tish) I'm upset to Mumma....
(George is saddened for his son being ripped off)
GEORGE CAESAR
(saddened; to Benjamin) I'm sorry son... I'm so sorry for this...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(upset; to George) It's alright... It's just (screams in anger) DAMN..
TISH CAESAR
(questions Benjamin) Did you report it to the authorities? That treacherous mongrel..
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(upset; to Tish) I did Mumma... They didn't care... he walked away scott-free... It is so (screams to parents) Disgusting...
TISH CAESAR
(saddened; to Benjamin) I'm sorry Benjamin... I'm sorry...
(Benjamin remembers stealing the 240 shillings; and thinks strongly about it. Tish questions her son's thinking)
TISH CAESAR
(questions BENJAMIN) What are you thinking about Benjamin...
(BENJAMIN avoids the conversation; and doesn't confess to his mother and father about his crime of theft)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(shakes head; to Tish) Nothing mumma... Nothing...
(BENJAMIN hugs his mother. GEORGE joins in the hug. MINUTES LATER - on the police horse-drawn carriage - the local county officer and his fellow three officers; arrive at the residence of BENJAMIN's residence. The local county officer notices BENJAMIN's face; and hops out of the horse-drawn carriage. George and Tish notice the police and are scared; Benjamin notices the local county officer and is shocked and concerned of his arrest. The local county officer fronts BENJAMIN's residence; and notices the fear in BENJAMIN's parents eyes)
LOCAL COUNTY OFFICER
(To Tish & George) I do not mean to scare you you both... But your son has committed the crime of theft; stealing 240 shillings. He is guilty; the bank vendor shop owner caught it first-hand... Your son is under arrest...
(BotH GEORGE and TISH are shocked and disgusted by their son's crime of theft in the village. The local county officer handcuffs BENJAMIN. An upset Tish questions her son's motives)
TISH CAESAR
(upset; to Benjamin) Benjamin.. What the? Why are you stealing now?
(Benjamin grows scared of being arrested; and taken from his parents. Benjamin confesses to Tish his motives)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(saddened; to Tish) Mumma. Please don't hate me... We are struggling. That man ripped me off. I was desperate for money... So we could lead better lives... Please understand...
TISH CAESAR
(saddened; to BENJAMIN) Benjamin... I never brang you up stealing... I never taught you to steal. BAD BOY...
(BENJAMIN admits to Tish & George; the truth and the corruption of the local county officer; admitting fears of himself being caught and captured by the local county police station)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(saddened; to Tish & George) Mumma. Dad... This copper here... He's corrupt... When I got ripped off; he stood and did nothing...
(The local county officer tightens BENJAMIN's wrists tighter; Benjamin groans from the tightness of the handcuffs. Benjamin fears for his future; begging his parents to intervene)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(screams; to Tish & George) Mum... Dad... do something... Please..
(Tish shakes her head in disgust and sadness; as she walks inside; allowing her son to be given punishment for his crimes)
GEORGE CAESAR
(saddened; to Tish) I'm really disgusted in you son... so is your mother...
(GEORGE Caesar walks back into his home; to comfort his wife. George closes the door. BENJAMIN is hurt and saddened; feeling a lack of care of his parents to himself. Minutes later; LOCAL COUNTY OFFICER drags and forces BENJAMIN CAESAR into the horse-drawn carriage. LOCAL COUNTY OFFICER takes off in the horse-drawn carriage; steering the horses to the courthouse for BENJAMIN to face punishment)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. MAIDSTONE KENT COURTHOUSE, ENGLAND, MARCH 17 1786
(Hours later; BENJAMIN Caesar sits at the witness box of the courthouse; the gallery of residents watch on as the judge makes his verdict. The judge has made the verdict)
JUDGE
(announces to courthouse) All right... I declare BENJAMIN CAESAR is guilty as charged. For the wrongful crime of stealing 240 shillings via the bank vendor at St Paul Deptford England... Your punishment and sentence will be direct transportation to the penal colony being BYRON BAY. You will be imprisoned aboard the ship "ALEXANDER;" which will lead fellow other convicts from England to Byron Bay, Australia. Your transportation date will be the month of May 1787. The transportation mission is named as the FIRST Fleet. (firm to BENJAMIN) You will leave this country at once. You will comply with all directives; and be a servant to the residents of BYRON BAY. Understood...
(BENJAMIN nods his head)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to JUDGE) Yes my honour..
JUDGE
(to courthouse) All right... Sentence confirmed...
(The sentencing of BENJAMIN CAESAR begins. BENJAMIN feels disgust with his parents)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. BOTANY BAY - ABOARD ALEXANDER SHIP, NSW JANUARY 1788
(Benjamin arrives on the shores of BYRON BAY NSW; aboard the ALEXANDER cruise ship; aboard the "FIRST FLEET" mission. Captain Arthur Phillip smiles in awe. Minutes later; Benjamin is escorted out of the ship by the handcuffs by fellow county officers. BENJAMIN walks and disembarks the ship; noticing other European convicts about to start a new life in Australia. BENJAMIN is the only black convict-man; whilst the other convict men are white)
(The day after BENJAMIN CAESAR had arrived on the shores of BYRON BAY NSW - BENJAMIN CAESAR went straight to work as a servant; gaining a reputation of being a hard-working servant and worker within the shores of BYRON BAY NSW)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. BOTANY BAY - SHORES, NSW 29 April 1789
(Weeks passed. BENJAMIN CAESAR is still on the BYRON BAY NSW shores performing servant and heavy duty work on the colony of Australia - wearing a white tank shirt; black shorts, and black-footed slippers.Many aboriginal men notice BENJAMIN, Captain Arthur Phillip; and the other convicts on shore working hard-induced labour worker. CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHLLIP, the leader of the convicts; orders the new convict men to stop working)
CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP
(to convict men, women & BENJAMIN) All right men and all convicts. Focus your attention on me...
(All convict men and women including BENJAMIN pay attention to CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP)
CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP
(to convict men & BENJAMIN) You mighty men and women.... yet criminal convicts have all worked hard.. But it is now time for a rest.... My English buddies have fresh food to crisp on a campfire, for all you my lovely servants to take a bite of.. I have declared myself as GOVERNOR of this great country AUSTRALIA. Now please... take a rest...
(An hour later - all convicts both women and men are at the campfire; with CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP, and fellow English service men. Every convict; including CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP and the service-men each have a bite of freshly brewed campfire KANGAROO stew. Everyone enjoys each of their serving; and burp after their meals. The convict women are in disgust of the men laughing and burping)
CONVICT WOMEN
(disgusted; to convict men) You men are disgusting pigs... Such grommets...
(The convict men laugh at the convict women. MEANWHILE - Benjamin notices an alone poor, yet elegant looking woman by the name of MARTHA, with whom is also the only black convict woman on site - wearing a thin dirty dress and black slippers. BENJAMIN stares at her in love; MARTHA notices BENJAMIN, they both start developing romantic feelings within each other at once. The other convict-men notice BENJAMIN looking at MARTHA: and laugh)
CONVICT MAN
(laughs to other convict men) Oh look at that. That black man is in love... how can the lonely black men get love when we whites can't...
(BENJAMIN grows angry at the white-convict-men's racism against him due to his skin colour. BENJAMIN begins shouting at his fellow convict-men)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(shouts at convict-men) Maybe because you're a goddamn racist punk.. with no chance you FUCKEDY-FUCK...
(The white convict-men laugh at BENJAMIN's choice of words: "FUCKEDY-FUCK," and insultingly joke about it)
CONVICT MAN
(laughs; to BENJAMIN) Oh yeah... alright... Your choice of words just there... "FUCKEDY FUCK." (laughs heavily) That ain't even a word you prick... You sure are intelligent you bloody prick...
(BENJAMIN grows angry at the white convict-men; wanting to assault the man for his racist comments against him. BENJAMIN stands up enraged; CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIPS notices the futility between BENJAMIN and the other convict-men; and steps in to intervene)
CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP
(firm; to BENJAMIN and white-convict men) Hey.. alright... Enough is enough... You convict criminals need to get along... Get along please...
(BENJAMIN continues to be outraged at the racist comments he has been given, CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP attempts to infuse the situation; and calm BENJAMIN down)
CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP
(to BENJAMIN) Calm down son... Calm down...
(BENJAMIN calms down; looking at CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP calmly)
CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP
(to convict-men) All right men... Calm down... Show respect... Soon. you all will be resting in your barracks, trenches and tents. Relax...
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. BOTANY BAY - BARRACK TRENCHES SHORES NSW... 29 APRIL 1789
(IT IS NIGHTTIME. Hours later; all convict-men and convict-women are sleeping in their tents among the trenches. Benjamin lays awake; and looks up at the roof of tent; still hurt and disgusted by his parents refusal of help against him. Not being tired and overcome with boredom; Benjamin exits the tent slowly; and makes his way to the bushland ahead of shore and the trenches)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. BOTANY BAY - BUSHLAND NSW... 29 APRIL 1789
(BENJAMIN is at the bushland; and notices an elderly vendor-man by the name of HANS LINCOLN; with whom is a marine supplying iron pots, backpacks and muskets to prospective buyers. Whilst no buyers are around to purchase any item; BENJAMIN slowly crouches his way towards the shopfront; stealing a backpack; one iron pot and a large musket. BENJAMIN runs away into the bushes; HANS notices BENJAMIN stealing; follows after him at a slow-pace; shouting at BENJAMIN to surrender and give up)
HANS LINCOLN
(shouts at BENJAMIN) Eh... Eh... young man... STOP NOW...
(BENJAMIN runs too fast; and gets away. HANS LINCOLN is furious; and gives up)
HANS LINCOLN
(annoyed; to himself) SHIT... SHIT.. FUCKIN SHIT... SHITBAG YOUNG PRICK...
(BENJAMIN runs towards more bushland; and notices a settlement of all villagers cooking food and nightly dinner. Wishing to steal food; BENJAMIN hides in sight until the right time; to steal and run away. Two minutes later; no one is at the outskirts of the settlement; and quickly runs towards the food; stealing as much food as possible for personal gain; and storing it in his backpack. One of the food owners notices BENJAMIN stealing and shouts at BENJAMIN to surrender and give up. BENJAMIN yet again; runs away to avoid being caught)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. BOTANY BAY - ABANDONED HUT SETTLEMENT... 29 APRIL 1789
(15 minutes later; BENJAMIN notices an abandoned hut among the bushland of BOTANY BAY shores. BENJAMIN enters the abandoned; yet strong-durable hut and sets up camp. 5 mins later; Benjamin sits down on the ground of the hut; and unpacks his backpack. BENJAMIN begins eating a small serving of crackers and dip; and some bread. MEANWHILE - Benjamin hears a sound by the word of "HELLO." Benjamin questions who is nearby)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to mysterious voice) Hello... Who's spying on me? Who's there?
MYSTERIOUS VOICE
(to BENJAMIN) Hello... thank...
(BENJAMIN grows annoyed and provoked by the mysterious voice)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(upset; to mysterious voice) THAT'S IT...
(BENJAMIN angrily gets up off the ground; aims his musket outside the hut. The mysterious voice is displayed as the voice of MARTHA CAESAR; Martha screams as she sees the musket aimed at her face; and tries to run away. BENJAMIN is sorry, yet shocked to see the African girl search for him. Benjamin grabs MARTHA's arm as she tries to escape)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(saddened; to Martha) Hey... Hey... I'm sorry... I won't hurt you..
(MARTHA looks afraid at BENJAMIN)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(assures Martha) I will not hurt you lady.... I promise... I will not hurt you... What's your name?
MARTHA
(scared; to BENJAMIN) That gun... How come you've got that??? How come?? I liked you before... now I'm not so sure...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(assures MARTHA) No please... I will not hurt you... I like you to... I still do like you... We are the odd ones out... The only blacks among all the other English folk convicts... You and I belong with each other...
MARTHA
(scared; to Benjamin) Not with a gunrunner... How?
(MARTHA screams. BENJAMIN comforts Martha and hugs her. Martha tries to break free; BENJAMIN holds her tight; avoiding her escape - attempting to comfort her)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(comforts MARTHA) Please... I will not harm you... I will NOT and I will NEVER harm you... Trust me... Trust me..
(MARTHA officially calms down. BENJAMIN stops hugging Martha; and looks at her)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to Martha) I have some food...
(MARTHA worries of herself and BENJAMIN being captured by CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP and the european servicemen)
MARTHA
(concerned; to BENJAMIN) But what about those people... The other convicts... They'll find us... They will find us..
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(Assures Martha) No... No Martha they won't... as long as we stay hidden... Let's not live a rotten life like they want us to... Let's start a revolution together...
(MARTHA smiles at BENJAMIN. She eventually grows romantic feelings towards him)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to Martha) Here... Have some food... Sit down..
(MARTHA abides by BENJAMIN's wishes and sits down under the hut. Benjamin sits beside MARTHA; and hands her a piece of bread. Martha begins eating the bread; and smiles at BENJAMIN)
MARTHA
(thankful; to BENJAMIN) Thank you... Thank you... Thank...
(BENJAMIN puts his index finger on Martha's lips)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(smiles; to Martha) It's okay... It's okay... Tell me your name...
MARTHA
(to Benjamin) Martha... Martha...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to Martha) Martha... is that how you pronounce it?
(MARTHA smiles and nods her head)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(in love; to Martha) Well Martha.. you are most certainly beautiful.. aren't you? I'm Benjamin...
MARTHA
(to BENJAMIN) Well thank you.. Thank you... Nice to meet you Benjamin...
(BENJAMIN's romantic feelings towards MARTHA grows stronger)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(romantically; to MARTHA) We really do belong with each other... the lonesome black couple in love...
(Martha becomes more talkative with BENJAMIN)
MARTHA
(in love; to BENJAMIN) Yes we... we do...
(BENJAMIN takes his white tank shirt off; completely shirtless... Martha grows excited in love as she puts her palm on BENJAMIN's black barechest. Martha smiles)
MARTHA
(speaks in African slang; to BENJAMIN) So lekker... your body... Nice, strong and leaker....
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(speaks in African slang; to Martha) And you my darling are lekker...
(Martha stares vividly in love at BENJAMIN's barechest. Martha remains her hand on BENJAMIN's barechest; Benjamin notices and begins a kissing spree on MARTHA. Martha smiles in love as BENJAMIN lays her down; BENJAMIN standing upwards; bends downwards to MARTHA; kissing her passionately in love)
MARTHA
(kissing BENJAMIN) So lekker... lekker man...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(kissing MARTHA) Lekker woman...
(BENJAMIN smiles romantically; as he kisses MARTHA 5 mins straight. 15 minutes later; CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP with his European servicemen find BENJAMIN & MARTHA; after reports of both BENJAMIN & MARTHA running away from the first fleet camp. CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP is far from pleased; and shouts at BENJAMIN)
CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP
(shouts to BENJAMIN) Put that shirt back on... NOW...
(BENJAMIN puts the white tank shirt back on himself quickly; and stands back up. BENJAMIN helps MARTHA up by the hand)
CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP
(disgusted; to BENJAMIN & MARTHA) Disgraceful... (firm) BACK TO THE CAMP... BOTH OF YOU...
(BENJAMIN & MARTHA are escorted back to the camp by the serviceman of CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP; to the barracks of the BYRON BAY shores - with the musket; iron pot; and backpack returned back to HANS LINCOLN. Captain Arthur Phillips follows on suite minutes later)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. BOTANY BAY - BARRACK TRENCHES SHORES NSW... 29 APRIL 1789
(BENJAMIN & MARTHA have returned to the camp; after being escorted back by the servicemen of CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP. MARTHA is escorted back to her tent; BENJAMIN is escorted back to his tent. After being shoved into the tent by the servicemen; CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP opens the tent door; requesting a conversation with BENJAMIN)
CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP
(firm; to BENJAMIN) Right... I know you don't get along with all the white convict-men.. You feel left out, isolated and abused by them... Understood. But the fact you have been found guilty of theft again... typical convict you are... You're out... getting transported to Brickfield Hill. Take your girlfriend. You deliberately disobeyed my orders... You can't be controlled. You're out...
(BENJAMIN CAESAR nods his head at CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP; in agreement of his punishment; securing his second term of transportation. CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP leaves in a unsatisfied tone and body language. BENJAMIN CAESAR smiles sadistically; and heads for a sleep. BENJAMIN falls asleep minutes later)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. BRICKFIELD HILL... BRICKMAKING GANG HQ 26 MAY 1789
(Benjamin has arrived on the shores of BRICKFIELD HILL, accommodated with his girlfriend. Benjamin is glad himself and his girlfriend MARTHA are out of the convict camp; living their lives freely. MARTHA & BENJAMIN walk through the bushes of BRICKFIELD HILL. MARTHA begins speaking to BENJAMIN)
MARTHA
(in love; to BENJAMIN) New life eh lekker...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(in love; to MARTHA) You bet lekker... You bet...
(BENJAMIN & MARTHA NOTICE A BRICKMAKING GANG; MARTHA GROWS CONCERNED)
MARTHA
(concerned; to BENJAMIN) Who's... Who's that? What's that?
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(comforts Martha) Calm down lekker... Calm down... Stay here... let me talk to them...
(MARTHA nods her head in agreement; as she watches BENJAMIN make his way toward the brickmaking gang)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to brickmaker gang member) Hello there... My girlfriend and I... we are new here... Is there any work around here?
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(To BENJAMIN) Yeah... help me get the gang rations.. And I'l supplement you with some...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to brickmaker gang maker) Yeah sure.... as long as my girl can keep safe...
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(to BENJAMIN) Yeah sure... I've got women that'll look after her... I'll take her there... but then we're off to steal rations.. Let's go... From that HANS LINCOLN dude...
(A minute later; BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER takes the shy MARTHA to the women of the brickmaking gang. He then returns to BENJAMIN)
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(to BENJAMIN) All right... let's go... now..
(BENJAMIN follows the brickmaker gang member; back to the location of HANS LINCOLN vendor shop; where he stores and sells backpacks, muskets and iron pots)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. BOTANY BAY - BUSHLAND NSW 26 MAY 1789
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(to BENJAMIN) Okay... This guy we're stealing all the muskets we can... This man we're robbing from... his name is HANS LINCOLN. Some marine dude... he'll give us all the muskets... the entire lot...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to brickmaker gang member) Understood man... I've robbed this man before...
(BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER is shocked by BENJAMIN's confession)
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(shocked; to BENJAMIN) You have have you...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(nods his head; to brickmaker gang member) Yeah... yeah I have robbed a musket before...
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) You're my guy... Now... now you are prepared... No explaining to do... Just get as much mullets as you can.. GO...
(The BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER and BENJAMIN arrive across from HANS LINCOLN's vendor storefront. BENJAMIN and the BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER crouch; staying out of sight; yet looking at the vendor shop from a distance. The BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER eyes the number of muskets; and smiles)
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(whispers to BENJAMIN) There they are... Those mullets are mine... The whole lot... When I say go... attack and get... (looks at BENJAMIN) Understand...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(whispers to BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER) Yes... I comprehend...
(They wait a minute)
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(whispers to BENJAMIN) NOW...
(BENJAMIN & THE BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER MAKE THEIR WAY TO STEAL RATIONS OF MULLETS FOR THE BRICKMAKING GANG CAMP. BENJAMIN JUMPS AND STEALS THREE MULLETS; WHILST HANS LINCOLN HAS HIS BACK TURNED. HANS LINCOLN TURNS HIS HEAD AROUND; AND IS UNHAPPY AGAIN AS HE NOTICES BENJAMIN STEALING HIS MULLETS AGAIN; AND SHOUTS AT HIM)
HANS LINCOLN
(shouts at BENJAMIN) Eh... EH... Stop there... Stop there you prick... Now..
(HANS LINCOLN tries to grab the three mullet guns off of BENJAMIN; Benjamin avoids this from happening. WHILST Hans is trying to subdue and make BENJAMIN surrender - the brickmaker gang member steals two mullets whilst HANS isn't looking. A minute later - HANS notices the two mullets on the back of the brickmaker gang member. HANS LINCOLN tries to intervene and grab the two mullets off of the brickmaker gang member but fails as BENJAMIN and the brickmaker gang member run away with the mullets on their backs. HANS LINCOLN screams in annoyance)
HANS LINCOLN
(shouts; at BENJAMIN and brickmaker gang member) You will pay for that... I'm getting the law on you... Bloody bushrangers... piece of shits you are...
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. BRICKFIELD HILL.... BRICKMAKING GANG HQ 26 MAY 1789
(Minutes later; BENJAMIN & the brickmaker gang member return to the camp HQ at Brickfield Hill. The brickmaker gang member looks at BENJAMIN; thankful for his assistance)
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(thankful; to BENJAMIN) Yes... thank you... Thank you man... Thank you... With these mullets... I can also hunt food for my gang and the women... (pauses) I'll let you go spend time with your girlfriend... I'll show you to where the women are...
(BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER leads BENJAMIN to the tent of women. BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER calls from outside to the women; questioning if himself and BENJAMIN can come in)
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(calling from outside tent) Women... Can we come in? Can we?
BRICKMAKER WOMEN
(calling from inside tent) Yes... Yes sure...
(The brickmaker gang member opens the tent. The women inside the tent including MARTHA, notice BENJAMIN and the brickmaker gang member)
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(to brickmaker gang member) Ah women... I think (points at Martha) The woman over there would like to spend time with her boyfriend BENJAMIN...
(MARTHA smiles as she looks at BENJAMIN; Benjamin looks at MARTHA back in love. The brickmaker women look at MARTHA)
BRICKMAKER WOMEN
(to Martha) My men are right... Go spend time with your boyfriend...
(MARTHA stands up; BENJAMIN holds MARTHA's hand out to her. MARTHA grabs it; BENJAMIN guides her with the brickmaker gang member; to the tent in which they will be sleeping in)
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(to BENJAMIN) Follow me...
(The brickmaker gang member exits the tent; with BENJAMIN holding MARTHA's hand; guiding her to the tent in which they will be sleeping in)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. BRICKFIELD HILL... SMALL-PITCHED GREEN TENT - BRICKMAKING GANG HQ 26 MAY 1789
(BENJAMIN, MARTHA & the brickmaking gang member arrives at the small-pitched green tent; in which they will be sleeping in)
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(to BENJAMIN) This is the spare tent we have pitched. It is now yours and your girlfriend's. I'll let you both be...
(THE BRICKMAKER gang member exits the scene. BENJAMIN looks at MARTHA)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(smiles; to MARTHA) Let's go in my lekker...
(BENJMAIN guides MARTHA inside the tent. MARTHA smiles as she sits on her bottom on the tent. MARTHA watches as BENJAMIN takes his shirt off once again; and bends downwards towards MARTHA. MARTHA lies down; BENJAMIN kisses her downwards with passion)
MARTHA
(kissing MARTHA) Lekker baby... My lekker... is handsome...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(kissing MARTHA) Stop talking gorgeous... I just want to kiss you...
(MARTHA smiles and continues kissing BENJAMIN for 5 mins straight. MARTHA puts her palm on BENJAMIN's barechest; Benjamin looks down at MARTHA's hand)
MARTHA
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) I want baby... I want a baby my lekker... Baby lekker...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) A little lekker for us both...
MARTHA
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) Yes...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) Wanna try now?
MARTHA
(excited; to BENJAMIN) Yes... yes...
(MARTHA & BENJAMIN both undress themselves; and smile in sexual pleasure. They begin taking sexual intercourse minutes later. BENJAMIN and MARTHA smile. They fall asleep minutes later. THE NEXT MORNING - BENJAMIN wakes up; and smiles in delight as he looks at his nude love of his life. MARTHA opens her eyes; and notices the naked BENJAMIN staring at her)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(in love; to MARTHA) Hello lekker....
MARTHA
(in love; to BENJAMIN) Hello my lekker...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(in love; to MARTHA) I love you my lekker... Never... ever... forget it...
(MARTHA smiles; BENJAMIN & Martha continue kissing in nude for another 5 mins. SUDDENLY; BRICKMAKEER GANG MEMBER opens unzips the tent to alert BENJAMIN someone is at the campsite to speak to him; and notices both BENJAMIN & MARTHA in full nude... BENJAMIN becomes aggravated; Martha becomes embarrassed)
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(embarrassed; to BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER) Oh sorry.. Sorry...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(shouts at BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER) Get out... GET THE FUCK OUT...
BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER
(saddened; to BENJAMIN CAESAR) Yes... I will... I will leave... it's just someone by the name of CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP is here...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(annoyed; to brickmaker gang member) I'll be out there... (furious) JUST FUCK OFF...
(BRICKMAKER GANG MEMBER quickly leaves the tent; and zips it back up. MARTHA worries)
MARTHA
(worried; to BENJAMIN) Benjamin... Why... The captain is here to get us again... Oh no...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(comforts MARTHA) It'll be okay MARTHA... It'll be... Just focus on me...
(THEY CONTINUE KISSING FOR 5 MINS straight; Benjamin stands up butt-naked; and bends down to pick up his clothes; and changes back into them. MARTHA smiles in awe and sexual pleasure)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(smiles; to MARTHA) Get changed lekker.... We may have to leave...
(MARTHA stands up in full-nude; and changes back into her thin dirty dress. She smiles at BENJAMIN; and they kiss once again on the lips)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(Smiles; to MARTHA) Let's go lekker... Let's go...
(MARTHA holds BENJAMIN's hand as he escorts her out of the tent. They stumble by CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP)
CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP
(firm; to Benjamin) I hear you have aided with this brickmaking gang in stealing muskets from the great HANS LINCOLN. Second time you have steamed from this man...
(BENJAMIN laughs. The brickmaking gang laughs with BENJAMIN)
CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP
(annoyed; to BENJAMIN) It seems you are an unstoppable force... you yourself... I can make life difficult for yourself... no problem at all...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(annoyed; to CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP) What do you want little man?
(CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP laughs; and becomes even more firm with his voice)
CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP
(firm; to BENJAMIN) It seems you need much more of a fierce punishment.... You seem to be asking for it...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(firm; to CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP) I ain't scared of death little man...
CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP
(firm; to BENJAMIN) Oh you're not are you...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(firm; to CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP) I ain't scared...
(CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP notices BENJAMIN CAESAR's fearlessness)
CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP
(firm; to BENJAMIN) Well you're just going to be shipped from location-to-location in this penal colony... You're out... You're off to GARDEN ISLAND. You and the woman of your life... You're out...
(The scene closes)
------------------------------------------------------------
INT. GARDEN ISLAND FETTERS - 6 JUNE 1789
(GARDEN ISLAND FETTERS - comprises of a red barn hybrid shed/home; and 1000 hectare-acreage of plants and crops. Days passed; BENJAMIN is now as a working garden labourer; being promised supplied fresh vegetables to himself and his girlfriend; after his long-day of work. HE FINISHES his workday; his elderly; male garden labour boss approaches him)
GARDEN LABOURER BOSS
(to BENJAMIN) You did well son... Thanks for your help...
(The garden labourer boss picks up basket filled with fresh veggies up from ground; and hands the basket to BENJAMIN)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to GARDEN LABOURER BOSS) Thanks... Thanks...
GARDEN LABOURER BOSS
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) You did well... for a convict... you have been loyal to me... so far... I will report your excellence of work to the GOVERNOR CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP...
(BENJAMIN rolls his eyes; and grunts over what the GARDEN LABOURER BOSS intends to tell CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP about his hard-labour work. GARDEN LABOURER BOSS notices BENJAMIN rolling his eyes)
GARDEN LABOURER BOSS
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) I will tell the GOVERNOR great things about you.. as long as you stay loyal to me... I'll see you tomorrow... Until then... I've got a yellow tent pitched up for you at the back of the house... Feel free to take your girlfriend and yourself; and park there... for ever how long the GOVERNOR wants you here...
(BENJAMIN nods his head at the GARDEN LABOURER BOSS. Minutes later; the GARDEN LABOURER BOSS escorts BENJAMIN & MARTHA to their yellow-coloured tone tent in which they will be sleeping; located at the back of the barn)
------------------------------------------------------------
INT. GARDEN ISLAND FETTERS - BACK OF PROPERTY, APPROACHING YELLOW-TONE COLOURED PITCHED TENT - 6 JUNE 1789
(THE GARDEN LABOURER BOSS, BENJAMIN & MARTHA have approached the yellow-toned pitched tent at the back of GARDEN ISLAND FETTERS. BENJAMIN appears thankful; and nods his head at the GARDEN LABOURER BOSS)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(thankful; to GARDEN LABOURER BOSS) Thank you... Thank you... My love and myself appreciate this...
GARDEN LABOURER BOSS
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) Have a good sleep... because tomorrow is much more, harder, labour-induced work... but that's alright... you've got the strength for it... Thanks... and goodnight...
(MARTHA appears annoyed by the GARDEN LABOURER BOSS'S pressure of labour work put onto the love of her life)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(to GARDEN LABOURER BOSS) Thanks... and goodnight...
(GARDEN LABOURER BOSS leaves the scene. BENJAMIN & MARTHA look at each other and enter the tent)
------------------------------------------------------------
INT. GARDEN ISLAND FETTERS - BACK OF PROPERTY, INSIDE YELLOW-TONE COLOURED PITCHED TENT - 6 JUNE 1789
(MINUTES LATER - BENJAMIN and the love of his life MARTHA; are inside the tent. BENJAMIN is shirtless; laying down; MARTHA is still dressed in her thin dirty dress; with her head resting on BENJAMIN's barechest. BENJAMIN strokes MARTHA's messy hair)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(smiles; to MARTHA) You all good lekker...
MARTHA
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) Only good if you are... I'm just thinking if I'm pregnant yet... with our little lekker...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(questions MARTHA) Do you know??
MARTHA
(concerned; to BENJAMIN) I don't know how to tell... I was never told this or taught how I would know...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(concerned; to MARTHA) I will have to take you to those women back at BRICKFIELD HILL tomorrow. That gang... There are women there... they will let you know if you're pregnant...
(MARTHA grows excited at the future event of giving birth. She smiles at BENJAMIN; BENJAMIN notices MARTHA smiling and staring at her)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(Questions MARTHA's staring) What are you smiling at? What are you smiling at my lekker?
(BENJAMIN tickles MARTHA; MARTHA giggles)
MARTHA
(questions BENJAMIN) Are you excited... for our little lekker? You will be a father... I will be a mother... Our little lekker... I wonder who he or she will look like... me or you??
(BENJAMIN smiles whist listening to his girlfriend)
MARTHA
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) Any name contenders you'd like? Any names you like?
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(smiles; to MARTHA) Well I do like the name Joey for a boy... and for a girl Jane... Jane or Joey...
MARTHA
(smiles; to BENJAMIN) Done... dusted... You are the name chooser; I am the child bearer... DONE...
(A pause)
MARTHA
(concerned; to BENJAMIN) BENJAMIN... I am concerned about something...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(worried; to MARTHA) And what's that my lekker?
MARTHA
(concerned; to BENJAMIN) I don't like that garden labour boss... If you're taking me to those women from the brickmaking gang... I won't you to go... He's going to work your back so hard... He doesn't give a stuff if you end up a cripple...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(smiles; to MARTHA) I agree MARTHA... You can sense the future my lekker...
(BENJAMIN tickles MARTHA on the arm; MARTHA giggles in love. Benjamin begins mentally planning his day and agenda tomorrow)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(smiles; to MARTHA) Okay... here's the plan tomorrow... I'm taking you back to that brickmaking gang tomorrow... and I'll set us up a new home....
(MARTHA appears saddened and concerned she will be left on her own. She questions BENJAMIN's motives)
MARTHA
(concerned; to BENJAMIN) What about me? I'm staying here...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(worried; to MARTHA) MARTHA... I don't want you to get hurt or locked up... especially if we're expecting a baby. Being on the run is dangerous and I have to avoid getting caught... and with you and our little lekker... It'll be more worrying to me if you get caught... or our lekker. Let me set up a safe, secure location for us... Okay...
(MARTHA understands but it is still saddened. She speaks in a saddened voice)
MARTHA
(understands; to BENJAMIN) Okay.. I understand... But I will miss you... Please... I hope to have our little lekker as soon as you set us up with a new house... Please... Please be quick...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(assures MARTHA) I will... I will... I just want to build a great life for ourselves; away from authorities. With no fear of being caught... We will be together... and we will live a happy life...
(MARTHA smiles in love; but begins to start missing BENJAMIN)
MARTHA
(concerned; to MARTHA) Okay... How are you going to?
(BENJAMIN puts his index finger on MARTHA's lips; assuring her everything will be okay and to stop talking about it)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(assures MARTHA) It'll be okay... I will figure something out... Until then....
(BENJAMIN CAESAR begins kissing MARTHA romantically on the tent ground. They kiss and fall asleep minutes later. THE NEXT MORNING IT IS 7AM - THE GARDEN LABOURER BOSS approaches the yellow-tone coloured tent; alerting BENJAMIN to wake up for day two of hard-induced farm work)
GARDEN LABOURER BOSS
(shouts; to tent) BENJAMIN CAESAR. Up... Day two...
(No response)
GARDEN LABOURER BOSS
(shouts; to tent) BENJAMIN. Up... up now... Time to work...
(NO RESPONSE. GARDEN LABOURER BOSS is concerned)
GARDEN LABOURER BOSS
(shouts; to tent) Hello... Is anyone there?? Hello?
(NO RESPONSE STILL. The GARDEN LABOURER BOSS grows frustrated; and unzips the tent - establishing that BENJAMIN CAESAR and his love has escaped. THE GARDEN LABOURER BOSS grows aggravated)
GARDEN LABOURER BOSS
(shouts; to himself) FUCK... FUCKKKK...
(GARDEN LABOURER BOSS runs to the barn-shed; and contacts GOVERNOR CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP; to alert the GOVERNOR that BENJAMIN CAESAR has once again escaped. MEANWHILE - BENJAMIN HAD ESCORTED HIS LOVE BACK TO the women at BRICKMAKING GANG HQ CAMPSITE back at BRICKFIELD HILL - to assist his love with potential pregnancy. BENJAMIN has been on the run ever since; to escape the risk of being caught by authorities and GOVERNOR CAPTAIN ARTHUR PHILLIP)
------------------------------------------------------------
INT. GARDEN ISLAND - BUSHLAND - 22 DECEMBER 1789
(BENJAMIN is barefoot; wearing white shorts; and is shirtless - running through the bushes of GARDEN ISLAND for months; surviving through stealing food from other servants. BENJAMIN approaches a river with an abandoned red canoe with a filled handgun inside the canoe; alongside a red paddle. BENJAMIN quickly hops in the canoe and steers the canoe 50m away from onsite GARDEN ISLAND. Minutes later; BENJAMIN arrives at an Aboriginal-camp village called LIBERTY PLAINS. BENJAMIN hops out of the abandoned canoe; grabbing his handgun with him; placing it in his pocket. BENJAMIN enters the Aboriginal-village of LIBERTY PLAINS; and notices a tribe of aboriginal men and women. One skinny aboriginal man; notices BENJAMIN; and automatically thinks BENJAMIN as a threat)
ABORIGINAL MAN
(shouts at BENJAMIN) Hey... HEY...
(The aboriginal man grabs his handmade, aboriginal-made spear and points it at BENJAMIN. BENJAMIN counters; and points his handgun at the aboriginal man)
ABORIGINAL MAN
(shouts at BENJAMIN) Get out... Get out of here...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(shouts at aboriginal man) GIVE ME SOME OF YOUR FOOD....
ABORIGINAL MAN
(shouts at BENJAMIN) GET OUT...
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(shouts at aboriginal man) MY weapon is far more powerful than yours little man.. Give me your food now...
(ABORIGINAL MAN grows aggravated; in protection of his tribe's food)
ABORIGINAL MAN
(shouts at BENJAMIN) LEAVE... NOW...
(A fight breaks out in between the ABORIGINAL MAN and BENJAMIN CAESAR. BENJAMIN shoots the skinny aboriginal man in the shoulder; the aboriginal man groans and spears BENJAMIN in the chest. BENJAMIN screams the loudest ever; and screams in agony. BENJAMIN's body gives in; the skinny ABORIGINAL MAN rages and screams as he pulls the spear out of BENJAMIN's chest)
BENJAMIN CAESAR
(dying; to aboriginal man) You... you... got me...
(BENJAMIN CAESAR officially dies at age 31 years. The aboriginal man screams in both anger and sadness; his tribe comforts him. The scene ends)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. BRICKFIELD HILL.... BRICKMAKING GANG HQ 26 MAY 1789
(HOURS LATER - The next scene opens to MARTHA CAESAR; hearing the news from the brickmaker gang member. MARTHA cries loudly with great sadness; grieving her boyfriend; whilst carrying her and her boyfriend's newborn daughter JANE CAESAR; with whom was born on 4 MARCH. The baby JANE CAESAR cries at her mother's distressed and grieving face)
MARTHA
(cries; to brickmaker gang women) He... He didn't even get to meet his lekker... His baby daughter...
(The brickmaker gang comfort MARTHA; as she suffers with grief. THE SCENE ENDS)
-----------------------------------------------------------
INT. ENDING
(After Benjamin's death; he was survived by his daughter JANE CAESAR; and was cremated. Malcolm COLLINS; based on DAVID COLLINS - his MONOLOGUE READS ON:
MALCOLMN COLLINS
(ending monologue) "This Benjamin Caesar... He gained a reputation for being the hardest living convict of all convicts in the colony of Australia. He was strongly muscular; and well calculated. He contributed to the most hardest and intense labor work ever pushed by men. Within his intellectual abilities; he most did not differ from a common brute. The appetitive of this man was ravenous; as he would access full rations of food for two days. In order for BENJAMIN to gratify his appetite; it was noted he would steal from other villagers to sustain it. It appears most of his thefts was contributed to stealing rations for that purpose. MARTHA CAESAR; his wife grieved for days and committed suicide due to not coping with the heavy loss. He is now survived by his daughter... let's hope he doesn't fall down the same path her father took; and become the most feared convict in Australia...
(END OF STORY)
